Dear Praying Friends,
Strategic Time!
June 20, 150 Year Celebration of Statehood.- West Virginia Prayer Summit -
Above all else, this will be a prayer gathering - we will be praying - as our friend Steve Hawthorne says, "On site, with insight!"
2012- Chris Skeens- Jackson Co
Is praying together important?
One of many Old Testament examples of assembled prayer occurs as recorded in 1 Kings at the dedication of the Temple "And hearken thou to the supplication of thy servant, and of thy people Israel, when they shall pray toward this place: and hear thou in heaven thy dwelling place: and when thou hearest, forgive" (1Kings 8:30).
Belovedly recognized as the Lord's Prayer, the Gospel of Jesus Christ includes Jesus' prayer with the disciples (Matt. 6). Jesus' John 17 prayer colloquy with the Father is His implore to the Father for the Body of Christ to exist and function in oneness - That they all may be one; as thou, Father, art in me, and I in thee, that they also may be one in us: that the world may believe that thou hast sent me (John 17:21).
Additionally, the New Testament letters resound with importance of united fervent prayer. The Apostle Paul admonishes Timothy - "I exhort therefore, that, first of all, supplications, prayers, intercessions, [and] giving of thanks, be made for all men" (I Tim. 2:1).
"Intercession is more than prayer, but it always starts as prayer. Christ's crucifixion was an act of intercession; His prayer, 'Father, forgive them,' (Luke 23:34) was perfectly united with his sacrificial action. God will give us intercessory actions that are the consequences of our intercessory prayer life." Pastor Francis Frangipane
In His Grace,
Pastor Chris Skeens
The Church of Jesus Christ at Ravenswood
Special thanks to the Church in the City for sharing in the email call
Friday, June 17, 2011
Friday, June 10, 2011
Communion: Common-Union
COMMON-UNION
(That the World may Know...!)
Our sole objective is to get people to Jesus by making Him known. He does the working of transformation by transforming the human heart. This is the power of the Gospel which is to be demonstrated in all the world–and then the end shall come!
This is the central theme of Christ’s Departure Discourse: John 13:1-17:26. We must see this as a continuum and desperately reach out for its reality in our lives in this hour.
At the center of their gathering is the Table of the Lord - an altar! If we are to demonstrate the reality of our Living Lord in the earth we must begin here–there is no way around - no shortcuts. Our response to the drawing of the Father to the Son is worship–this is the only acceptable response. Romans12:1 I urge you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies a living and holy sacrifice, acceptable to God, which is your spiritual service of worship. (And we cannot crawl off the altar.)
For Christ Mary’s womb was an altar, the manger was an altar–the Cross was an altar toward which He was gazing.
See the causative effect of the altar in the relationship of Christ with His disciples - even the betrayer. John 13:3 Jesus knew that the Father had put all things under his power, and that he had come from God and was returning to God; 4 so he got up from the meal, took off his outer clothing, and wrapped a towel around his waist. (Also: Philippians 2:6 Who, being in very nature God, did not consider equality with God something to be grasped, 7 but made himself nothing, taking the very nature of a servant, being made in human likeness.)
The expediency of the altar and the subsequent deed serve to flush out the perpetrator. Unrighteousness cannot remain in this context–good and evil, light and darkness cannot coexist at the altar of the Lord. “Common-union” requires openness and transparency. (D.A. Carson - “Christian zeal divorced from transparent humility sounds hollow, even pathetic.”)
We evangelicals have something to learn from our liturgical brethren. The Table of the Lord - the Altar - is at the center of their worship. (We all have some form of liturgy.) For us the center of our worship is the pulpit - a man!
At an altar the blood is shed - the blood establishes (ratifies) the covenant. Luke 22:20 And in the same way He took the cup after they had eaten, saying, “This cup which is poured out for you is the new covenant in My blood.
The altar itself is not the covenant–it is the basis for the covenant. Hebrews 9:16 For where a covenant is, there must of necessity be the death of the one who made it.
Covenant is the heritage of this land. From 1680-88 18,000 Scottish Covenanters gave their lives for their belief. They were covenanted toward God with one another for the good of their land.
Dutch Sheets, “(We must) lay down our own agendas for the good of the region.” Each individual member or organ of the body does not exist to seek its own agenda, it only exists for the good of the whole–and their it finds its relevancy.
Leviticus 17:11 ‘For the life of the flesh is in the blood, and I have given it to you on the altar to make atonement for your souls; for it is the blood by reason of the life that makes atonement.’
The life is in the blood: covenant gives birth to the community - the Body of Christ!
1 Cor. 10:16 Is not the cup of blessing which we bless a sharing in the blood of Christ? Is not the bread which we break a sharing in the body of Christ? 17 Since there is one bread, we who are many are one body; for we all partake of the one bread.
Josh McDowell - “All truth is taught (reveled) in the context of relationships–throughout all of biblical history.”
The Community/Body is the place of His Presence. It is where He dwells by His Spirit (Eph. 2:19-22 19 So then you are no longer strangers and aliens, but you are fellow citizens with the saints, and are of God’s household,...). It is also His House or the place He conducts His business. Luke 2:49 And He said to them, “Why is it that you were looking for Me? Did you not know that I had to be in My Father’s house?” (Or affairs; lit. in the things of My Father.)
“God is not just saving individuals and preparing them for heaven; rather, he is creating a people among whom he can live and who in their life together will reproduce God’s life and character.”1
The community is the witness in the world–to make Him known. Even to this extent: Eph. 3:10 “...in order that the manifold wisdom of God might now be made known through the church to the rulers and the authorities in the heavenly places.”
This is the way we - the church - will recapture relevance in our society - there is no other way. We must present truth in new (old) way. The way we are doing it in the Western Word is not working. Even 9-11 could not shock our hearts back to life. A blip appeared on the screen, but soon faded.
“The early believers did not have buildings called ‘churches’; they did not ‘go to church.’ They were the church, and at appointed times and places they assembled as the church (1 Cor. 11:18).”2
John 12:20 Now there were certain Greeks among those who were going up to worship at the feast; 21 these therefore came to Philip, who was from Bethsaida of Galilee, and began to ask him, saying, “Sir, we wish to see Jesus.” 22 Philip *came and *told Andrew; Andrew and Philip *came, and they *told Jesus. 23 And Jesus *answered them, saying, “The hour has come for the Son of Man to be glorified.
Gordon D. Fee, Paul, the Spirit and the People of God, Hendrickson, Peabody, MA, 1996, p. 66
(That the World may Know...!)
Our sole objective is to get people to Jesus by making Him known. He does the working of transformation by transforming the human heart. This is the power of the Gospel which is to be demonstrated in all the world–and then the end shall come!
This is the central theme of Christ’s Departure Discourse: John 13:1-17:26. We must see this as a continuum and desperately reach out for its reality in our lives in this hour.
At the center of their gathering is the Table of the Lord - an altar! If we are to demonstrate the reality of our Living Lord in the earth we must begin here–there is no way around - no shortcuts. Our response to the drawing of the Father to the Son is worship–this is the only acceptable response. Romans12:1 I urge you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies a living and holy sacrifice, acceptable to God, which is your spiritual service of worship. (And we cannot crawl off the altar.)
For Christ Mary’s womb was an altar, the manger was an altar–the Cross was an altar toward which He was gazing.
See the causative effect of the altar in the relationship of Christ with His disciples - even the betrayer. John 13:3 Jesus knew that the Father had put all things under his power, and that he had come from God and was returning to God; 4 so he got up from the meal, took off his outer clothing, and wrapped a towel around his waist. (Also: Philippians 2:6 Who, being in very nature God, did not consider equality with God something to be grasped, 7 but made himself nothing, taking the very nature of a servant, being made in human likeness.)
The expediency of the altar and the subsequent deed serve to flush out the perpetrator. Unrighteousness cannot remain in this context–good and evil, light and darkness cannot coexist at the altar of the Lord. “Common-union” requires openness and transparency. (D.A. Carson - “Christian zeal divorced from transparent humility sounds hollow, even pathetic.”)
We evangelicals have something to learn from our liturgical brethren. The Table of the Lord - the Altar - is at the center of their worship. (We all have some form of liturgy.) For us the center of our worship is the pulpit - a man!
At an altar the blood is shed - the blood establishes (ratifies) the covenant. Luke 22:20 And in the same way He took the cup after they had eaten, saying, “This cup which is poured out for you is the new covenant in My blood.
The altar itself is not the covenant–it is the basis for the covenant. Hebrews 9:16 For where a covenant is, there must of necessity be the death of the one who made it.
Covenant is the heritage of this land. From 1680-88 18,000 Scottish Covenanters gave their lives for their belief. They were covenanted toward God with one another for the good of their land.
Dutch Sheets, “(We must) lay down our own agendas for the good of the region.” Each individual member or organ of the body does not exist to seek its own agenda, it only exists for the good of the whole–and their it finds its relevancy.
Leviticus 17:11 ‘For the life of the flesh is in the blood, and I have given it to you on the altar to make atonement for your souls; for it is the blood by reason of the life that makes atonement.’
The life is in the blood: covenant gives birth to the community - the Body of Christ!
1 Cor. 10:16 Is not the cup of blessing which we bless a sharing in the blood of Christ? Is not the bread which we break a sharing in the body of Christ? 17 Since there is one bread, we who are many are one body; for we all partake of the one bread.
Josh McDowell - “All truth is taught (reveled) in the context of relationships–throughout all of biblical history.”
The Community/Body is the place of His Presence. It is where He dwells by His Spirit (Eph. 2:19-22 19 So then you are no longer strangers and aliens, but you are fellow citizens with the saints, and are of God’s household,...). It is also His House or the place He conducts His business. Luke 2:49 And He said to them, “Why is it that you were looking for Me? Did you not know that I had to be in My Father’s house?” (Or affairs; lit. in the things of My Father.)
“God is not just saving individuals and preparing them for heaven; rather, he is creating a people among whom he can live and who in their life together will reproduce God’s life and character.”1
The community is the witness in the world–to make Him known. Even to this extent: Eph. 3:10 “...in order that the manifold wisdom of God might now be made known through the church to the rulers and the authorities in the heavenly places.”
This is the way we - the church - will recapture relevance in our society - there is no other way. We must present truth in new (old) way. The way we are doing it in the Western Word is not working. Even 9-11 could not shock our hearts back to life. A blip appeared on the screen, but soon faded.
“The early believers did not have buildings called ‘churches’; they did not ‘go to church.’ They were the church, and at appointed times and places they assembled as the church (1 Cor. 11:18).”2
John 12:20 Now there were certain Greeks among those who were going up to worship at the feast; 21 these therefore came to Philip, who was from Bethsaida of Galilee, and began to ask him, saying, “Sir, we wish to see Jesus.” 22 Philip *came and *told Andrew; Andrew and Philip *came, and they *told Jesus. 23 And Jesus *answered them, saying, “The hour has come for the Son of Man to be glorified.
Gordon D. Fee, Paul, the Spirit and the People of God, Hendrickson, Peabody, MA, 1996, p. 66
The Heart of Reconciliation
We Have To Win Our Brother!
“...and He has committed to us the Word (message) of Reconciliation.” 2 Cor. 5:19b
Genesis 42:8 But Joseph had recognized his brothers, although they did not recognize him.
The one who takes the initiative in reconciliation is the one who recognizes his brothers–and sees their need. This is the beginning of justice.
Gen. 42:21 “Truly we are guilty concerning our brother, because we saw the distress of his soul when he pleaded with us, yet we would not listen; therefore this distress has come upon us.”
Distress will come upon us when we hear, but fail to respond to the distress of our brother. This is injustice.
Genesis 45:1
1 Then Joseph could not control himself before all those who stood by him, and he cried, “Have everyone go out from me.” So there was no man with him when Joseph made himself known to his brothers. {Joseph had matured - The Word of God had refined him - Psalm 105:16-19.}
2 Cor. 5:14 For the love of Christ controls us, having concluded this, that one died for all, therefore all died;
Genesis 45:2
2 He wept so loudly that the Egyptians heard it, and the household of Pharaoh heard of it. {The spirit of Intercession had come up him–he was standing in the gap for his brothers and for the whole purpose of God. Reconciliation without intercession produces a hollow sound–and reconciliation may take many forms.}
Reconciliation produces a sound that will be heard throughout the land. Ezekiel 37:7 So I prophesied as I was commanded; and as I prophesied, there was a noise, and behold, a rattling; and the bones came together, bone to its bone.
Genesis 45:3 Then Joseph said to his brothers, “I am Joseph! Is my father still alive?” But his brothers could not answer him, for they were dismayed (terrified) at his presence.
Reconciliation brings an end to fear.
Gen 45:4 Then Joseph said to his brothers, “Please come closer to me. (Draw near to me.)” And they came closer. And he said, “I am your brother Joseph, whom you sold into Egypt. (Acts 7:13)
He revealed himself to them by the sign of the covenant that was cut in his own flesh. On our side of the cross the sign of the covenant is cut into our hearts. 2 Cor. 5:16 Therefore from now on we recognize no one according to the flesh; even though we have known Christ according to the flesh, yet now we know Him in this way no longer.
For we put no confidence in the flesh...only in the true circumcision. The false circumcision mutilates - castrates(eunuchs) - barrenness. The true circumcision cuts away - prunes - resulting in fruitfulness.
In the power of convenantal love all are on an equal footing: justice, one of the foundational principles of His government (Psalm 89:14, 97:2b).
Genesis 45:5 Now do not be grieved or angry with yourselves, because you sold me here, for God sent me before you to preserve life. (Joseph is recognizing the Godly characteristic of justice revealed in His own life.)
There is no inequity in covenant. Joseph is the great example of this. He prospered at the Hand of God, but so did his Father’s family. This is justice at work. Biblical prosperity is a fruit of justice and comes as the result of good stewardship. It should not be sought for itself alone. Many sincere advocates of prosperity have actually discovered the principle of justice, they just don’t realize it.
2 Cor. 5:17 Therefore if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creature; the old things passed away; behold, new things have come.
No longer do we count trespasses against one another–all indebtedness (injustice) is forgiven.
Genesis 45:7 God sent me before you to preserve for you a remnant in the earth, and to keep you alive by a great deliverance. 8 Now, therefore, it was not you who sent me here, but God; and He has made me a father to Pharaoh and lord of all his household and ruler over all the land of Egypt. {God will exalt the humble - especially those who have submitted to His humbling. “God blesses those who are gentle and lowly (humble), for the whole earth will belong to them.” Matt. 5:5 New Living} (Philippians 2:7 “He made himself nothing {He laid aside His mighty power and glory.}; he took the humble position of a slave and appeared in human form. 8 And in human form he obediently humbled himself even further by dying a criminal’s death on a cross. 9 Because of this, God raised him up to the heights of heaven and gave him a name that is above every other name,...” New Living)
2 Cor. 5:18 Now all these things are from God, who reconciled us to Himself through Christ and gave us the ministry of reconciliation,19 namely, that God was in Christ reconciling the world to Himself, not counting their trespasses against them, and He has committed to us the word of reconciliation.
Genesis 45:9 Hurry and go up to my father, and say to him, ‘Thus says your son Joseph, “God has made me lord of all Egypt; come down to me, do not delay.
2 Cor. 5:20 Therefore, we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God were making an appeal through us; we beg you on behalf of Christ, be reconciled to God.
The Body (Israel) had to be reconciled to give birth to the nation! Even Joseph with all of his wealth and power was incomplete without his brothers. (Justice is ineffectual in a vacuum.) The Body of Christ must be reconciled to give birth to National Transformation.
Under the Old Covenant the covenant was cut in the flesh of the Hebrew males only.
The New Covenant has been cut once and for all in the flesh of the Messiah and it is applied to the heart of all who will receive - male or female, Jew or Greek, socio-economic status has no bearing. In His flesh every barrier has been broken down.
Genesis 45:11"There I will also provide for you, for there are still five years of famine to come, and you and your household and all that you have would be impoverished.”
Joseph fulfills his role of an intercessor in providing for his family. He saves his family–this is the day of their salvation!
2 Corinthians 6:2 for He says,
“At the acceptable time I listened to you,
And on the day of salvation I helped you.”
Behold, now is “the acceptable time,” behold, now is “the day of salvation”—
Genesis 45:12 Behold, your eyes see, and the eyes of my brother Benjamin see, that it is my mouth which is speaking to you.
Joseph has provided a visible witness! There are no longer any barriers, all obstructions to fellowship have been removed. Joseph was one with them in every respect. (The playing field had become level.)
2 Cor. 5:21a “He made Him who knew no sin to be sin on our behalf,...” (He became one with us in every respect.)
Genesis 45:13a “Now you must tell my father of all my splendor in Egypt, and all that you have seen;...”
2 Cor. 5:21b “...so that we might become the righteousness of God in Him.”
Genesis 45:13b “...and you must hurry and bring my father down here.”
2 Cor. 6:1 “And working together with Him, we also urge you not to receive the grace of God in vain—“
Relationship with the Father is restored–the family is made whole once again. The beginning and the end of reconciliation is the Fatherhood of God. (Righteousness and justice are reconciled.)
Genesis 45:14 “Then he fell on his brother Benjamin’s neck and wept, and Benjamin wept on his neck. 15 He kissed all his brothers and wept on them, and afterward his brothers talked with him.”
They enjoy the sweet common-union of the family of God!
Ephesians 4: 4 “There is one body and one Spirit, just as also you were called in one hope of your calling; 5 one Lord, one faith, one baptism, 6 one God and Father of all who is over all and through all and in all.”
Genesis 45:17 Then Pharaoh said to Joseph, “Say to your brothers, ‘Do this: load your beasts and go to the land of Canaan, 18 and take your father and your households and come to me, and I will give you the best of the land of Egypt and you will eat the fat of the land.’”
Authentic reconciliation bears the nutritious fruit of justice (and righteousness).
Genesis 45:24 So he sent his brothers away, and as they departed, he said to them, “Do not quarrel on the journey.”
Genesis 45: 27 When they told him all the words of Joseph that he had spoken to them, and when he saw the wagons that Joseph had sent to carry him, the spirit of their father Jacob revived.
When Jacob saw the evidence of reconciliation, justice, he believed!
Genesis 45:28 Then Israel said, “It is enough; my son Joseph is still alive. I will go and see him before I die.”
The relationship between father and son that had been broken for many years would be restored.
Genesis 46:3 He said, “I am God, the God of your father; do not be afraid to go down to Egypt, for I will make you a great nation there.”
The purposes of God for the nation would go forward unhindered.
“...and He has committed to us the Word (message) of Reconciliation.” 2 Cor. 5:19b
Genesis 42:8 But Joseph had recognized his brothers, although they did not recognize him.
The one who takes the initiative in reconciliation is the one who recognizes his brothers–and sees their need. This is the beginning of justice.
Gen. 42:21 “Truly we are guilty concerning our brother, because we saw the distress of his soul when he pleaded with us, yet we would not listen; therefore this distress has come upon us.”
Distress will come upon us when we hear, but fail to respond to the distress of our brother. This is injustice.
Genesis 45:1
1 Then Joseph could not control himself before all those who stood by him, and he cried, “Have everyone go out from me.” So there was no man with him when Joseph made himself known to his brothers. {Joseph had matured - The Word of God had refined him - Psalm 105:16-19.}
2 Cor. 5:14 For the love of Christ controls us, having concluded this, that one died for all, therefore all died;
Genesis 45:2
2 He wept so loudly that the Egyptians heard it, and the household of Pharaoh heard of it. {The spirit of Intercession had come up him–he was standing in the gap for his brothers and for the whole purpose of God. Reconciliation without intercession produces a hollow sound–and reconciliation may take many forms.}
Reconciliation produces a sound that will be heard throughout the land. Ezekiel 37:7 So I prophesied as I was commanded; and as I prophesied, there was a noise, and behold, a rattling; and the bones came together, bone to its bone.
Genesis 45:3 Then Joseph said to his brothers, “I am Joseph! Is my father still alive?” But his brothers could not answer him, for they were dismayed (terrified) at his presence.
Reconciliation brings an end to fear.
Gen 45:4 Then Joseph said to his brothers, “Please come closer to me. (Draw near to me.)” And they came closer. And he said, “I am your brother Joseph, whom you sold into Egypt. (Acts 7:13)
He revealed himself to them by the sign of the covenant that was cut in his own flesh. On our side of the cross the sign of the covenant is cut into our hearts. 2 Cor. 5:16 Therefore from now on we recognize no one according to the flesh; even though we have known Christ according to the flesh, yet now we know Him in this way no longer.
For we put no confidence in the flesh...only in the true circumcision. The false circumcision mutilates - castrates(eunuchs) - barrenness. The true circumcision cuts away - prunes - resulting in fruitfulness.
In the power of convenantal love all are on an equal footing: justice, one of the foundational principles of His government (Psalm 89:14, 97:2b).
Genesis 45:5 Now do not be grieved or angry with yourselves, because you sold me here, for God sent me before you to preserve life. (Joseph is recognizing the Godly characteristic of justice revealed in His own life.)
There is no inequity in covenant. Joseph is the great example of this. He prospered at the Hand of God, but so did his Father’s family. This is justice at work. Biblical prosperity is a fruit of justice and comes as the result of good stewardship. It should not be sought for itself alone. Many sincere advocates of prosperity have actually discovered the principle of justice, they just don’t realize it.
2 Cor. 5:17 Therefore if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creature; the old things passed away; behold, new things have come.
No longer do we count trespasses against one another–all indebtedness (injustice) is forgiven.
Genesis 45:7 God sent me before you to preserve for you a remnant in the earth, and to keep you alive by a great deliverance. 8 Now, therefore, it was not you who sent me here, but God; and He has made me a father to Pharaoh and lord of all his household and ruler over all the land of Egypt. {God will exalt the humble - especially those who have submitted to His humbling. “God blesses those who are gentle and lowly (humble), for the whole earth will belong to them.” Matt. 5:5 New Living} (Philippians 2:7 “He made himself nothing {He laid aside His mighty power and glory.}; he took the humble position of a slave and appeared in human form. 8 And in human form he obediently humbled himself even further by dying a criminal’s death on a cross. 9 Because of this, God raised him up to the heights of heaven and gave him a name that is above every other name,...” New Living)
2 Cor. 5:18 Now all these things are from God, who reconciled us to Himself through Christ and gave us the ministry of reconciliation,19 namely, that God was in Christ reconciling the world to Himself, not counting their trespasses against them, and He has committed to us the word of reconciliation.
Genesis 45:9 Hurry and go up to my father, and say to him, ‘Thus says your son Joseph, “God has made me lord of all Egypt; come down to me, do not delay.
2 Cor. 5:20 Therefore, we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God were making an appeal through us; we beg you on behalf of Christ, be reconciled to God.
The Body (Israel) had to be reconciled to give birth to the nation! Even Joseph with all of his wealth and power was incomplete without his brothers. (Justice is ineffectual in a vacuum.) The Body of Christ must be reconciled to give birth to National Transformation.
Under the Old Covenant the covenant was cut in the flesh of the Hebrew males only.
The New Covenant has been cut once and for all in the flesh of the Messiah and it is applied to the heart of all who will receive - male or female, Jew or Greek, socio-economic status has no bearing. In His flesh every barrier has been broken down.
Genesis 45:11"There I will also provide for you, for there are still five years of famine to come, and you and your household and all that you have would be impoverished.”
Joseph fulfills his role of an intercessor in providing for his family. He saves his family–this is the day of their salvation!
2 Corinthians 6:2 for He says,
“At the acceptable time I listened to you,
And on the day of salvation I helped you.”
Behold, now is “the acceptable time,” behold, now is “the day of salvation”—
Genesis 45:12 Behold, your eyes see, and the eyes of my brother Benjamin see, that it is my mouth which is speaking to you.
Joseph has provided a visible witness! There are no longer any barriers, all obstructions to fellowship have been removed. Joseph was one with them in every respect. (The playing field had become level.)
2 Cor. 5:21a “He made Him who knew no sin to be sin on our behalf,...” (He became one with us in every respect.)
Genesis 45:13a “Now you must tell my father of all my splendor in Egypt, and all that you have seen;...”
2 Cor. 5:21b “...so that we might become the righteousness of God in Him.”
Genesis 45:13b “...and you must hurry and bring my father down here.”
2 Cor. 6:1 “And working together with Him, we also urge you not to receive the grace of God in vain—“
Relationship with the Father is restored–the family is made whole once again. The beginning and the end of reconciliation is the Fatherhood of God. (Righteousness and justice are reconciled.)
Genesis 45:14 “Then he fell on his brother Benjamin’s neck and wept, and Benjamin wept on his neck. 15 He kissed all his brothers and wept on them, and afterward his brothers talked with him.”
They enjoy the sweet common-union of the family of God!
Ephesians 4: 4 “There is one body and one Spirit, just as also you were called in one hope of your calling; 5 one Lord, one faith, one baptism, 6 one God and Father of all who is over all and through all and in all.”
Genesis 45:17 Then Pharaoh said to Joseph, “Say to your brothers, ‘Do this: load your beasts and go to the land of Canaan, 18 and take your father and your households and come to me, and I will give you the best of the land of Egypt and you will eat the fat of the land.’”
Authentic reconciliation bears the nutritious fruit of justice (and righteousness).
Genesis 45:24 So he sent his brothers away, and as they departed, he said to them, “Do not quarrel on the journey.”
Genesis 45: 27 When they told him all the words of Joseph that he had spoken to them, and when he saw the wagons that Joseph had sent to carry him, the spirit of their father Jacob revived.
When Jacob saw the evidence of reconciliation, justice, he believed!
Genesis 45:28 Then Israel said, “It is enough; my son Joseph is still alive. I will go and see him before I die.”
The relationship between father and son that had been broken for many years would be restored.
Genesis 46:3 He said, “I am God, the God of your father; do not be afraid to go down to Egypt, for I will make you a great nation there.”
The purposes of God for the nation would go forward unhindered.
Dwelling Together in Organic and Functional Symmetry
Principle or Program? Both!
(They Must Abide Together! Dwelling Together in Organic and Functional Symmetry.)
Devoid of principle, program is an exercise in futility. On the other hand however without program, principle is ineffective and may represent nothing more than an empty shell of idealism.
Principle precedes program and endures beyond it. (Principle is the alpha and omega.) Program is a manifestation or visible outworking of principle. (Program is the incarnation of principle.)
Principle is inviolate, program is flexible and must conform to needs. Principle is value based, program is built upon expediency.
We run the risk of stagnation when we view program as inviolate.
Principles may be rediscovered, but they are not recreated. Program must exist right on the very edge of creativity. Neither is static–both are energetic. Principle might be likened to the spirit of a man and program to his physical existence.
The principles of God are as immutable as His character. (Malachi 3:6a “For I, the Lord, do not change;...”) The program He inspires is as rich and varied as His creation.
Principle is communicated through relationship. “The man is the message!” The character or nature of the messenger validates the worth of the principle. 2 Corinthians 3:3 “...being manifested that you are a letter of Christ, cared for by us, written not with ink, but with the Spirit of the living God, not on tablets of stone, but on tablets of human hearts.”
The undergirding elements of transformation are principles, not programs: persevering leadership and fervent united prayer. Transformation breaks down when it is subjected to an attempt at programming. George Otis, Jr. says this is the pitfall of many who see the Transformation Videos - they then try to do “transformation.” You cannot do “transformation” for it is principle based. If it was programmatic it could be done–but it is not!
Principle plus program results in process. Transformation is a process. Process is the product for which we yearn. Process is definite forward motion that can be evaluated both as to quality and quantity.
Principle is the vine whose roots are firmly embedded in the rich soil, programs are the branches and results are the fruit. Fruit is the proof of the validity of the process. If there is no fruit we should evaluate the process–are principle and program in sync? If principle and program truly abide together then the natural and expected result will be produce (John 15:7-8). The Gardner is glorified and satisfied in all that He has done.
Program devoid of principle only causes dependency - one program must follow another. Principle liberates but must have means of expression or it will produce no definable results.
Program is wearisome. It is about maintenance and extracts a heavy price from its subjects. Principle is self-rejuvenating. It is about purpose and will propel its adherents along.
Program leads to grief, principle to joy!
(They Must Abide Together! Dwelling Together in Organic and Functional Symmetry.)
Devoid of principle, program is an exercise in futility. On the other hand however without program, principle is ineffective and may represent nothing more than an empty shell of idealism.
Principle precedes program and endures beyond it. (Principle is the alpha and omega.) Program is a manifestation or visible outworking of principle. (Program is the incarnation of principle.)
Principle is inviolate, program is flexible and must conform to needs. Principle is value based, program is built upon expediency.
We run the risk of stagnation when we view program as inviolate.
Principles may be rediscovered, but they are not recreated. Program must exist right on the very edge of creativity. Neither is static–both are energetic. Principle might be likened to the spirit of a man and program to his physical existence.
The principles of God are as immutable as His character. (Malachi 3:6a “For I, the Lord, do not change;...”) The program He inspires is as rich and varied as His creation.
Principle is communicated through relationship. “The man is the message!” The character or nature of the messenger validates the worth of the principle. 2 Corinthians 3:3 “...being manifested that you are a letter of Christ, cared for by us, written not with ink, but with the Spirit of the living God, not on tablets of stone, but on tablets of human hearts.”
The undergirding elements of transformation are principles, not programs: persevering leadership and fervent united prayer. Transformation breaks down when it is subjected to an attempt at programming. George Otis, Jr. says this is the pitfall of many who see the Transformation Videos - they then try to do “transformation.” You cannot do “transformation” for it is principle based. If it was programmatic it could be done–but it is not!
Principle plus program results in process. Transformation is a process. Process is the product for which we yearn. Process is definite forward motion that can be evaluated both as to quality and quantity.
Principle is the vine whose roots are firmly embedded in the rich soil, programs are the branches and results are the fruit. Fruit is the proof of the validity of the process. If there is no fruit we should evaluate the process–are principle and program in sync? If principle and program truly abide together then the natural and expected result will be produce (John 15:7-8). The Gardner is glorified and satisfied in all that He has done.
Program devoid of principle only causes dependency - one program must follow another. Principle liberates but must have means of expression or it will produce no definable results.
Program is wearisome. It is about maintenance and extracts a heavy price from its subjects. Principle is self-rejuvenating. It is about purpose and will propel its adherents along.
Program leads to grief, principle to joy!
The Role Of The Intercessor - God's design
The Role of the Intercessor in the fulfillment of God’s designs from the life of Reuben.
An intercessor stands in the gap between what is and what might be thus making the connection. God could do without intercession, but He has chosen to intervene in the affairs of man through intercession. The first and most basic requirement for effective intercession is a genuine relationship with the Father. We must know His heart and mind before we begin to pray. “We tell God what He has told us to tell Him!” Then the kingdoms of this world will become the Kingdom of God and of His Christ. Matthew 6:10 “Your kingdom come. Your will be done, On earth as it is in heaven.”
Ezekiel 22:28 Her prophets have smeared whitewash for them, seeing false visions and divining lies for them, saying, ‘Thus says the Lord God,’ when the Lord has not spoken. (This is counterfeit intercession.)
29 The people of the land have practiced oppression and committed robbery, and they have wronged the poor and needy and have oppressed the sojourner without justice. (This is the way things were heading.)
30 I searched for a man among them who would build up the wall and stand in the gap before Me for the land, so that I would not destroy it; but I found no one. (God had another plan, one of mercy, but there was no intercessor to be found.)
31 Thus I have poured out My indignation on them; I have consumed them with the fire of My wrath; their way I have brought upon their heads,” declares the Lord God. (Thus, things continued the way they were going.)
Reuben was Jacob’s firstborn by Leah (Gen. 29:31-32).
His name means, “See, a son (or a man).” Because the Lord has seen my affliction, now my husband will love me. He was an intercessor from his mother’s womb - interceding between Leah and Jacob.
His mother saw in him a messianic quality, much as Eve had at the birth of her firstborn, Cain. (Gen. 4:1 - “I have gotten a man, the Lord.”
Reuben - an intercessor? Being the firstborn he has a sense of responsibility for his brothers. And his mother (Gen. 30:14). Intercession is driven by this sense of responsibility. This can become a pitfall if it devolves into a Messianic complex.
He lost his rights of the firstborn (Gen. 49:3-4; through infidelity (Gen. 35:22) with his father’s maid (maybe he was trying to comfort her), yet he never lost the sense of responsibility. (Intercessors, beware of this trap! An exaggerated sense of responsibility {mercy motivation, rescuer} is the bait.)
(Joseph - “God has taken away my reproach - barrenness.” Gen. 30:22-24)
1 Chronicles 5:1-2
1 Now the sons of Reuben the firstborn of Israel (for he was the firstborn, but because he defiled his father’s bed, his birthright was given to the sons of Joseph the son of Israel; so that he is not enrolled in the genealogy according to the birthright. 2 Though Judah {ruler, administrator} prevailed over his brothers, and from him came the leader, yet the birthright belonged to Joseph {intercessor, provider, steward}), (The birthright or double-portion was given for the purpose of sustaining life - care.)
Reuben has a vested interest in Joseph for his birthright had passed to Joseph’s sons. His role as an intercessor had passed to Joseph, but the basic motivation never left him. {Motivations can still produces results or effect although the anointing has passed.}
Joseph was a watchman - Gen. 37:2.
Joseph was the closest to his Father’s heart and this caused misunderstanding between he and his brothers to the point they would not speak to him on friendly terms (Gen. 37:3-4).
Then God begins to reveal His destiny not only for Joseph, but for the nation. This results in further misunderstanding and ill-feeling possibly because of the inappropriateness of Joseph’s timing in delivering the message.
The message in Joseph had to be refined to bring it to maturity.
Psalm 105:17 He sent a man before them, Joseph, who was sold as a slave.18 They afflicted his feet with fetters, He himself was laid in irons; 19 Until the time that his word came to pass, The word of the Lord tested him.
His father sent him to inquire of the welfare of his brothers (Gen. 37:13-14).
Sometimes intercessors will wander around until they get direction (Gen. 37:15-17). It is easier to be directed when you are already in motion.
The blindness of the brothers’ jealousy causes them to plot the death of Joseph but Reuben stands in as his intercessor. Genesis 37:21 But Reuben heard this and rescued him out of their hands and said, “Let us not take his life.” 22 Reuben further said to them, “Shed no blood. Throw him into this pit that is in the wilderness, but do not lay hands on him”—that he might rescue him out of their hands, to restore him to his father.
Reuben is utterly devastated when his plan of rescue seems to have gone awry. Genesis 37:29 Now Reuben returned to the pit, and behold, Joseph was not in the pit; so he tore his garments. 30 He returned to his brothers and said, “The boy is not there; as for me, where am I to go?” He is despondent over the failure of his mission.
From the rest of the story we know that Joseph’s gift makes way for him and Pharaoh sets him over all of the land of Egypt. An overseer is one who sees over–that is, the one who has vision. In this place of authority and responsibility he enters into a messianic role, an intercessor, not only for the people of Egypt, but to preserve his own people in whom was the hope of the ultimate Messiah.
Genesis 42:1b “Why are you staring at one another?” None of the brothers have vision, they only stare at one another.
When the brothers do come down to Egypt and stand before Joseph he recognizes them although they do not recognize him and he accuses them of being spies. This accusation could hardly be further from the truth for they have no vision.
When Joseph asks them to bring Benjamin down to Egypt also, for this is God’s plan to preserve the nation, they become fearful and remember what they had done to their brother (Gen. 42:21).
Reuben recalls his earlier plan to preserve Joseph alive. Gen. 42:22 “Did I not tell you, ‘Do not sin against the boy’; and you would not listen? Now comes the reckoning for his blood.”
When they are dismayed at finding their money in the sacks of grain, Reuben’s motivation come to the fore once again. Genesis 42:37 Then Reuben spoke to his father, saying, “You may put my two sons to death if I do not bring him back to you; put him in my care, and I will return him to you.”
An intercessor stands in the gap between what is and what might be thus making the connection. God could do without intercession, but He has chosen to intervene in the affairs of man through intercession. The first and most basic requirement for effective intercession is a genuine relationship with the Father. We must know His heart and mind before we begin to pray. “We tell God what He has told us to tell Him!” Then the kingdoms of this world will become the Kingdom of God and of His Christ. Matthew 6:10 “Your kingdom come. Your will be done, On earth as it is in heaven.”
Ezekiel 22:28 Her prophets have smeared whitewash for them, seeing false visions and divining lies for them, saying, ‘Thus says the Lord God,’ when the Lord has not spoken. (This is counterfeit intercession.)
29 The people of the land have practiced oppression and committed robbery, and they have wronged the poor and needy and have oppressed the sojourner without justice. (This is the way things were heading.)
30 I searched for a man among them who would build up the wall and stand in the gap before Me for the land, so that I would not destroy it; but I found no one. (God had another plan, one of mercy, but there was no intercessor to be found.)
31 Thus I have poured out My indignation on them; I have consumed them with the fire of My wrath; their way I have brought upon their heads,” declares the Lord God. (Thus, things continued the way they were going.)
Reuben was Jacob’s firstborn by Leah (Gen. 29:31-32).
His name means, “See, a son (or a man).” Because the Lord has seen my affliction, now my husband will love me. He was an intercessor from his mother’s womb - interceding between Leah and Jacob.
His mother saw in him a messianic quality, much as Eve had at the birth of her firstborn, Cain. (Gen. 4:1 - “I have gotten a man, the Lord.”
Reuben - an intercessor? Being the firstborn he has a sense of responsibility for his brothers. And his mother (Gen. 30:14). Intercession is driven by this sense of responsibility. This can become a pitfall if it devolves into a Messianic complex.
He lost his rights of the firstborn (Gen. 49:3-4; through infidelity (Gen. 35:22) with his father’s maid (maybe he was trying to comfort her), yet he never lost the sense of responsibility. (Intercessors, beware of this trap! An exaggerated sense of responsibility {mercy motivation, rescuer} is the bait.)
(Joseph - “God has taken away my reproach - barrenness.” Gen. 30:22-24)
1 Chronicles 5:1-2
1 Now the sons of Reuben the firstborn of Israel (for he was the firstborn, but because he defiled his father’s bed, his birthright was given to the sons of Joseph the son of Israel; so that he is not enrolled in the genealogy according to the birthright. 2 Though Judah {ruler, administrator} prevailed over his brothers, and from him came the leader, yet the birthright belonged to Joseph {intercessor, provider, steward}), (The birthright or double-portion was given for the purpose of sustaining life - care.)
Reuben has a vested interest in Joseph for his birthright had passed to Joseph’s sons. His role as an intercessor had passed to Joseph, but the basic motivation never left him. {Motivations can still produces results or effect although the anointing has passed.}
Joseph was a watchman - Gen. 37:2.
Joseph was the closest to his Father’s heart and this caused misunderstanding between he and his brothers to the point they would not speak to him on friendly terms (Gen. 37:3-4).
Then God begins to reveal His destiny not only for Joseph, but for the nation. This results in further misunderstanding and ill-feeling possibly because of the inappropriateness of Joseph’s timing in delivering the message.
The message in Joseph had to be refined to bring it to maturity.
Psalm 105:17 He sent a man before them, Joseph, who was sold as a slave.18 They afflicted his feet with fetters, He himself was laid in irons; 19 Until the time that his word came to pass, The word of the Lord tested him.
His father sent him to inquire of the welfare of his brothers (Gen. 37:13-14).
Sometimes intercessors will wander around until they get direction (Gen. 37:15-17). It is easier to be directed when you are already in motion.
The blindness of the brothers’ jealousy causes them to plot the death of Joseph but Reuben stands in as his intercessor. Genesis 37:21 But Reuben heard this and rescued him out of their hands and said, “Let us not take his life.” 22 Reuben further said to them, “Shed no blood. Throw him into this pit that is in the wilderness, but do not lay hands on him”—that he might rescue him out of their hands, to restore him to his father.
Reuben is utterly devastated when his plan of rescue seems to have gone awry. Genesis 37:29 Now Reuben returned to the pit, and behold, Joseph was not in the pit; so he tore his garments. 30 He returned to his brothers and said, “The boy is not there; as for me, where am I to go?” He is despondent over the failure of his mission.
From the rest of the story we know that Joseph’s gift makes way for him and Pharaoh sets him over all of the land of Egypt. An overseer is one who sees over–that is, the one who has vision. In this place of authority and responsibility he enters into a messianic role, an intercessor, not only for the people of Egypt, but to preserve his own people in whom was the hope of the ultimate Messiah.
Genesis 42:1b “Why are you staring at one another?” None of the brothers have vision, they only stare at one another.
When the brothers do come down to Egypt and stand before Joseph he recognizes them although they do not recognize him and he accuses them of being spies. This accusation could hardly be further from the truth for they have no vision.
When Joseph asks them to bring Benjamin down to Egypt also, for this is God’s plan to preserve the nation, they become fearful and remember what they had done to their brother (Gen. 42:21).
Reuben recalls his earlier plan to preserve Joseph alive. Gen. 42:22 “Did I not tell you, ‘Do not sin against the boy’; and you would not listen? Now comes the reckoning for his blood.”
When they are dismayed at finding their money in the sacks of grain, Reuben’s motivation come to the fore once again. Genesis 42:37 Then Reuben spoke to his father, saying, “You may put my two sons to death if I do not bring him back to you; put him in my care, and I will return him to you.”
Believe In West Virginia
Believe in West Virginia
A letter from Executive Director John deBlecourt
Welcome to the Believe in West Virginia website! I am thankful that you have heard about our organization and are looking for more information. As you will see as you explore our site we are involved in many exciting programs. Our Vision is evidence of our passion for the great people of our state.
The Vision:
Uniting, supporting and empowering West Virginians to achieve their God given potential.
We are continually looking for new ways to impact our State and its people. Our Mission Statement lays out the areas we want to impact.
The Mission:
Believe in West Virginia Leadership Foundation is a Christ centered catalyst helping transform the economic, political, social and spiritual environment of West Virginia, thereby communicating hope and a brighter future for all.
Go to Believe In West Virginia Link for available resources
A letter from Executive Director John deBlecourt
Welcome to the Believe in West Virginia website! I am thankful that you have heard about our organization and are looking for more information. As you will see as you explore our site we are involved in many exciting programs. Our Vision is evidence of our passion for the great people of our state.
The Vision:
Uniting, supporting and empowering West Virginians to achieve their God given potential.
We are continually looking for new ways to impact our State and its people. Our Mission Statement lays out the areas we want to impact.
The Mission:
Believe in West Virginia Leadership Foundation is a Christ centered catalyst helping transform the economic, political, social and spiritual environment of West Virginia, thereby communicating hope and a brighter future for all.
Go to Believe In West Virginia Link for available resources
Adopt a Jesus Film - Charleston Gazette
CHARLESTON, W.Va. -- It wasn't that long ago that street evangelist Brandt Russo was thrown out of Houston's Lakewood Church, the country's largest and arguably wealthiest house of worship.
Now, Russo is returning to Lakewood, to Houston and to other cities he's visited on a spiritual journey that has brought him to West Virginia.
Street evangelist Brandt Russo is on his way to Houston, New Orleans and Philadelphia to film a documentary about life on the streets.
Russo plans to travel from Houston to New Orleans, then to Philadelphia, traveling on a bus converted to run on used vegetable oil and staying on whatever streets he finds himself on during the journey.
"I'm just the tour guide," Russo said. "I think it's going to be an upward investigation from bad to good."
Russo planned to leave Aug. 8 on a trip that's expected to take about two weeks. Bob Wilkinson, a technician for West Virginia Public Television, will film the trip. He hopes to track their progress through his MySpace Web site, www.myspace.com/astraydogfilm.
Wilkinson, a friend of Russo, said he shares some of Russo's views.
"Politically and spiritually, we're pretty similar," Wilkinson said. "Really what we've been about is to work to try to get past differences between people and get back to the root of things."
An ordained minister, Russo found his long hair and tattoos didn't necessarily endear him to parishioners. He decided to give up his worldly goods and move to the streets, living and praying with the homeless.
Although he maintains a bank account to support his ministry, "I live my life with no money whatsoever," Russo said. His home, when he isn't on the streets or staying with friends, is a 1987 GMC school bus rigged to run on vegetable oil and outfitted with beds and its own kitchen. He hits up restaurants for used cooking oil, which owners are usually happy to let him have for free rather than pay to have the oil taken away.
Among the survival skills Russo picked up on the streets is the art of Dumpster diving, for which he relies on everything from furnishings to food.
"The United States, by itself, throws out $5 billion to $6 billion of food a year," he said.
By law, grocery stores and other shops that sell food can only keep food on their shelves for a certain period of time, after which they just throw it away. Russo said homeless shelters can't legally accept it, but that doesn't mean the food has to go to waste.
"That's how I've fed myself for the last year, and fed 10,000 or 15,000 homeless people I've had the pleasure of sharing time with," he said.
The trick is to go just after the stores close, before frozen food has a chance to thaw or other items have a chance to spoil. Russo knows when all the local stores close, and usually makes a circuit looking for food.
"It's better to go every night, because you know what was there the night before," he said.
Street evangelist Brandt Russo is on his way to Houston, New Orleans and Philadelphia to film a documentary about life on the streets.
Owners and store staff usually don't mind Russo picking through their garbage, especially once they know what he's doing with the food. Sometimes, they ask him if he's looking for anything specific and bring it to him.
"As long as you have respect for the property, I've never had a problem," Russo said.
Often, he said, the discarded food is good quality, expensive product.
"I've never eaten healthier in my life," Russo said. "A lot of what they have is stuff that didn't get bought. Who's going to buy a $13 block of cheese?"
Russo's journey eventually led him to West Virginia, where he came on a religious tour. People seemed to be more accepting of his lifestyle, so he decided to stay.
Wilkinson and Russo have a rough plan for the trip, but what actually happens will be up to the health of the bus, their reception along the way, and the hand of God.
"We have an idea where we're going to go and what we're going to do, but we're going to let the road take us wherever we end up," Wilkinson said.
Russo expects the journey to be inspirational.
"We as people have the power to change things through good will," he said.
Now, Russo is returning to Lakewood, to Houston and to other cities he's visited on a spiritual journey that has brought him to West Virginia.
Street evangelist Brandt Russo is on his way to Houston, New Orleans and Philadelphia to film a documentary about life on the streets.
Russo plans to travel from Houston to New Orleans, then to Philadelphia, traveling on a bus converted to run on used vegetable oil and staying on whatever streets he finds himself on during the journey.
"I'm just the tour guide," Russo said. "I think it's going to be an upward investigation from bad to good."
Russo planned to leave Aug. 8 on a trip that's expected to take about two weeks. Bob Wilkinson, a technician for West Virginia Public Television, will film the trip. He hopes to track their progress through his MySpace Web site, www.myspace.com/astraydogfilm.
Wilkinson, a friend of Russo, said he shares some of Russo's views.
"Politically and spiritually, we're pretty similar," Wilkinson said. "Really what we've been about is to work to try to get past differences between people and get back to the root of things."
An ordained minister, Russo found his long hair and tattoos didn't necessarily endear him to parishioners. He decided to give up his worldly goods and move to the streets, living and praying with the homeless.
Although he maintains a bank account to support his ministry, "I live my life with no money whatsoever," Russo said. His home, when he isn't on the streets or staying with friends, is a 1987 GMC school bus rigged to run on vegetable oil and outfitted with beds and its own kitchen. He hits up restaurants for used cooking oil, which owners are usually happy to let him have for free rather than pay to have the oil taken away.
Among the survival skills Russo picked up on the streets is the art of Dumpster diving, for which he relies on everything from furnishings to food.
"The United States, by itself, throws out $5 billion to $6 billion of food a year," he said.
By law, grocery stores and other shops that sell food can only keep food on their shelves for a certain period of time, after which they just throw it away. Russo said homeless shelters can't legally accept it, but that doesn't mean the food has to go to waste.
"That's how I've fed myself for the last year, and fed 10,000 or 15,000 homeless people I've had the pleasure of sharing time with," he said.
The trick is to go just after the stores close, before frozen food has a chance to thaw or other items have a chance to spoil. Russo knows when all the local stores close, and usually makes a circuit looking for food.
"It's better to go every night, because you know what was there the night before," he said.
Street evangelist Brandt Russo is on his way to Houston, New Orleans and Philadelphia to film a documentary about life on the streets.
Owners and store staff usually don't mind Russo picking through their garbage, especially once they know what he's doing with the food. Sometimes, they ask him if he's looking for anything specific and bring it to him.
"As long as you have respect for the property, I've never had a problem," Russo said.
Often, he said, the discarded food is good quality, expensive product.
"I've never eaten healthier in my life," Russo said. "A lot of what they have is stuff that didn't get bought. Who's going to buy a $13 block of cheese?"
Russo's journey eventually led him to West Virginia, where he came on a religious tour. People seemed to be more accepting of his lifestyle, so he decided to stay.
Wilkinson and Russo have a rough plan for the trip, but what actually happens will be up to the health of the bus, their reception along the way, and the hand of God.
"We have an idea where we're going to go and what we're going to do, but we're going to let the road take us wherever we end up," Wilkinson said.
Russo expects the journey to be inspirational.
"We as people have the power to change things through good will," he said.
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