Speks

"Spirit + flesh = soul"... Some may think this is right, but maybe it's just trying to say the right thing in the wrong way? In my reading of Scripture, spirit "plus" the body brings the soul into existence — the presence of the soul is evidence of life in the body. But, spirit plus the body does not "=" soul. Adam received the breath of life (the first human spirit) from the Lord God, and this life in the human body produces the soul, the expressive consciousness of man. The body without the spirit is dead, and of course, if the body is lifeless there can be no soul. Body, soul and spirit together form the completeness of man. The Holy Spirit lives in the believer's body. The powerful Life of the Word of God can pierce deeply, dividing soul from spirit within us. This divine action brings a spiritual awareness that effectively judges and exposes the damaging hindrances that originate wholly in the human soul, the source of our expression of self apart from God's instruction and leading. In ourselves we can accomplish nothing for Christ. In response to our faith, the Holy Spirit in our spirits reveals the mind of Christ. When we can clearly identify our unspiritual characteristics and activities, and when we understand His will for us, we will grow spiritually and be productive. Condensed further: it's God's intention we — remain steadfast in Christ, take up our cross daily, are established in the Truth, walk in the Spirit, deny self and die to self.

We willingly follow Christ each day and allow Him to lead us while learning not to trust ourselves.

This is an entirely appropriate conclusion to reach based on the whole of Scripture, including the likes of Ecclesiastes 12:7, Isaiah 42:5, James 2:26... The divine breath is indeed life and spirit. The fullness of the Hebrew definition is: “1. breath of God as hot wind kindling a flame; as destroying wind; as cold wind producing ice; as creative, giving breath to man. 2. breath of man; breath of life; as breathed in by God it is God’s breath in man; and it is characteristic of man. 3. syn. of every breathing thing. 4. spirit of man” (from Brown-Driver-Briggs). I’m always a little cagey when I come across a comment like this. We ought to flag it simply because the major versions translate the Greek “natural body” (1st Corinthians 15:44). This means a single student is pitting himself against the many qualified scholars represented by the NASB, ESV, NET, CSB, AMP (also "physical body"), and NIV. Claiming they have all done a poor job is just a bit of a problem...

I'm convinced that those who are firmly rooted and built up in Christ and established in their faith need never fear their spiritual enemy. However, it's not wise to underestimate the potential damage that can be caused by the evil forces of darkness. Our enemy takes the form of an angel of light. Sometimes he pretends or appears to be on the side of righteousness, claiming spiritual authenticity in the world and within the true Church. We need to recognise the devil's character and be wary of his activities in the world around us. Christ “gave Himself for our sins, that He might deliver us from this present evil age” (Galatians 1:4, NKJV). We need this deliverance because “the whole world lies in the power of the evil one” (1st John 5:19, NASB), and the devil is working in those who are disobedient (Ephesians 2:2). Those who openly oppose Truth need to “come to their senses and escape from the snare of the devil, having been held captive by him to do his will” (2nd Timothy 2:26, NASB). The god of this world works on the minds of those who do not believe to stop them seeing the truth (2nd Corinthians 4:4). I posted about this recently after reading a few comments on this forum. In considering the works of darkness, what matters most is how effectively we wrestle against a wicked spiritual enemy whose influence causes untold harm throughout the true Church. When we are wholly submitted to God, through faith in Christ's authority we can resist the devil and he will flee from us. He will be confronted by our spiritual awareness and will recognise the Person of Christ in us. But we should also realise that our enemy can stand in our way, or perhaps gain an advantage. Even if we are aware of his schemes, there will be times when he will hinder us: "...we wanted to come to you... and yet Satan hindered us" (1st Thessalonians 2:18). He can cut through our intentions and thwart our plans, so we need to be set apart (pure and sanctified), fully prepared for conflict. The spiritual forces of wickedness will do their best to disrupt good works, corrupt godliness, block spiritual progress and distort true teaching. We are constantly set against an enemy who wants to frustrate the Holy Spirit's work in and through us. The more we accomplish in Christ the greater the opposition will be. Are we prepared? (Ephesians 6:10-18) Demonic activity can poison our attitudes and behaviour, which in turn causes "soulish" friction among true believers (consider James 3:15, 16). Paul's experience strongly suggests our spiritual enemies — working as messengers of Satan — can also cause humbling health problems (see 2nd Corinthians 12:7). It's worth considering. "Put on the full armor of God so that you can stand against the tactics of the Devil" (Ephesians 6:11, HCSB).

We have to be careful in discussions like this we don't present some personal convictions or theories as definite facts. That may not be our intention, but it can come across that way. Many subjects in Scripture are more than clear enough. In fact most of Scripture can be comfortably taken to strengthen our faith and can be used to build up one another when we get together. There are so many God-breathed truths we can be assured of. They instruct and correct us, equipping us for righteous living and serving Christ as He has enabled us. There is so much in Scripture we can use to strengthen our faith and ground us in sound teaching. The spiritually mature can humbly instruct others, but their conscience warns them when they are in danger of peddling their own personal preferences. We are always learning and growing. We need to allow ourselves to be rightfully balanced by others to prevent us from unintentionally distorting God's Truths. Most of all we need to remember that some may accept our words as teaching, but God may not have equipped us to teach in this way. (Consider 1st Corinthians 12:28; Ephesians 4:11-14; James 3:1, 2.) Accurately handling Scripture in authority is a serious responsibility. I know many of us understand all of this. (It's reassuring to come on someone here who seems to have a very high view of Scripture.) It can of course be helpful to discuss Truth. However, I've read more than a few posts on this forum that were (to me, please note!) harmful false teachings, or clashed very badly with my understanding of the fullness of Scripture. But on occasions I've been edified too. And I need that! Yes, many things in life need explained authoritatively, but I'm just sharing again while it was on my mind...

This is something I've been thinking about myself recently. It's not all bad, of course, but it's a common occurrence. Online forums in any context are often characterised by disagreements. I used to share in photography forums but gave up because of pointless bickering and the endless arrogant pronouncements of self-styled gurus. I had to learn to bite my digital tongue to stop me becoming yet another miserable pot-stirrer. (When I point the finger 3 point back!) Contentious issues among 'Christians' are very rarely profitable because some folk seem to thrive on wrangles and so-called debates. They are determined to make their point or have the last word. Human nature and spiritual immaturity will never fulfill God's will or further His work — quite the opposite in fact. Will we learn? Will I learn? There are scriptures that warn against foolish speculations, controversial questions and mere disputes about words. Those responsible provoke factions. Their conduct is unprofitable, sinful, subversive, unenlightened, conceited. Their behaviour results in quarrels, envy, abusive language and harmful suspicions.

Off-topic, but... I'm definitely not a fan of 80% of our ventures into space, but anybody who wonders about the opinions of moon/flat earth-related conspiracists should get themselves "Moon Hoax: Debunked! Dispelling doubts about the Moon landings, celebrating courage and ingenuity" by Paolo Attivissimo. A fascinating read that gets you thinking seriously about the unsettling traits in some people's personalities that leave their minds open to fringe speculations and untenable scientific worldviews. The main problem we face is dealing with why and how this happens, especially within the true Church. A secondary consideration is the impact it makes on an impressionable global population that exchanges information so easily and freely (and carelessly). The mature and enriching wisdom of Christ is greatly needed.

There is a scripturally right way and an inquisitive wrong way to draw attention to the powers of darkness. Scripture has plenty to say, but always in the authority of Christ and in the context of His people being spiritually equipped to overcome. For example, in James 4:7, 8 successfully resisting the devil is sandwiched between submitting to God and drawing near to Him.

It is indeed sobering comparing death generally to our death and life in Christ. In recent weeks some related topics were discussed here and there, including the "make up" of man, and soul and spirit. Some personal thoughts and opinions on life in Christ, and dying, and the interaction of soul and spirit might be of interest too. https://handtotheploughblog.wordpress.com/self/ __ The first thing we can be sure of is after death we face judgement (Hebrews 9:27). On that day Christ has authority to judge: "Do not marvel at this; for an hour is coming, in which all who are in the tombs will hear His voice, and will come forth; those who did the good deeds to a resurrection of life [i.e., those who trusted in Christ, see John 5:24], those who committed the evil deeds to a resurrection of judgment" (John 5:28, 29, NASB); "...there shall certainly be a resurrection of both the righteous and the wicked" (Acts 24:15, NASB). At a future time the dead "who are in the tombs" will rise to be judged. The dead rise to judgement from the grave. In Christ we who believe will live again, even though we die and have lain in the grave. Martha's comment to Jesus reflects this teaching: "I know that he [Martha's brother] will rise again in the resurrection on the last day" (John 11:24, NASB). 1st Thessalonians 4:15, 16 tells us that those who have died, all the believers who are "asleep" in Christ, will rise first (from their graves). "Then we who are alive and remain will be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air, and so we shall always be with the Lord. Therefore comfort one another with these words" (1st Thessalonians 4:17-18 NASB). Taken together these verses of Scripture indicate that believers who die are raised at Christ's return. They are considered to be asleep (dead) in their graves until that moment. All who are dead in the tombs will hear His voice. They will be resurrected from sleep (death) to life. What are we aware of after we die and before Christ returns? Can we look to Old Testament texts for insight? "Whatever your hand finds to do, do it with all your might; for there is no activity or planning or knowledge or wisdom in Sheol where you are going" (Ecclesiastes 9:10, NASB); "When his spirit leaves him, he returns to the earth; In that very day his thoughts and plans perish" (Psalm 146:4, Amplified Bible). Many (most?) interpret the text at 2nd Corinthians 5:8 and Philippians 1:23 to mean that immediately after death we will be with Christ: "absent from the body and... at home with the Lord"; "having the desire to depart and be with Christ, for that is very much better". In 2nd Corinthians 12:2-4 we read a unique account where someone (Paul) was caught up to the "third heaven" — "Paradise". We ought not to think of this experience in the context of being dead. Paul writes: "...whether in the body or apart from the body I do not know, God knows." A singular context for an after-death experience is found in 1st Samuel 28:7-20 where Saul uses a medium to draw up Samuel "out of the earth". "Samuel said to Saul, 'Why have you disturbed me by bringing me up?'" (v.15). There are other contexts in Scripture where individuals did not die but were taken directly into God's presence. In Genesis 5:24 we are told "Enoch walked with God; and he was not, for God took him"; "By faith Enoch was taken up so that he would not see death; AND HE WAS NOT FOUND BECAUSE GOD TOOK HIM UP; for he obtained the witness that before his being taken up he was pleasing to God" (Hebrews 11:5 NASB). In 2nd Kings 2:11 we read that "Elijah went up by a whirlwind into heaven." Elijah appeared with Moses to Peter, James and John when Christ led them up a high mountain and was transfigured before them (see Matthew 17:1-13). In Luke 23:43 Jesus tells the criminal being crucified, "Truly I say to you, today you shall be with Me in Paradise" (NASB). This implies that after dying the crucified criminal was taken that day to where Christ was and did not "sleep" awaiting the resurrection. Does this prove conclusively that when we die we are immediately with the Lord? If after death we "sleep", our appearing before Christ will seem instant. But whatever our views may be, we know that after death we are forever secure: "Now I say this, brethren, that flesh and blood cannot inherit the kingdom of God; nor does the perishable inherit the imperishable. Behold, I tell you a mystery; we will not all sleep, but we will all be changed, in a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trumpet; for the trumpet will sound, and the dead will be raised imperishable, and we will be changed. "For this perishable must put on the imperishable, and this mortal must put on immortality. But when this perishable will have put on the imperishable, and this mortal will have put on immortality, then will come about the saying that is written, 'Death IS SWALLOWED UP in victory. O DEATH, WHERE IS YOUR VICTORY? O DEATH, WHERE IS YOUR STING?' The sting of death is sin, and the power of sin is the law; but thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ. "Therefore, my beloved brethren, be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that your toil is not in vain in the Lord" (1st Corinthians 15:50-58, NASB). "I will raise him up on the last day" (John 6:54, NASB). ___

On the face of it, this seems to be a bizarre question. No one, including mocking atheists, would expect bitcoin to be dealt with in Scripture, so at best I'm hoping you have in mind the undisciplined misuse of digital finances. For true believers finance in any context must be used in a way that doesn't displace Christ in their daily lives. The misuse of money is a hindrance to spiritual growth and often results in greed, wrongdoing and corruption. Are you facing eternal punishment because you've used bitcoin? That's the wrong question to ask. Have you sinned against Christ? Are you willing to tell Him how truly sorry you are? Are you willing to change, claim forgiveness and follow Him daily? Do you want to enjoy a clean and balanced lifestyle that honours Him? Those are questions that matter.

Strictly speaking, the genuine believer consists of 4 elements: body, soul, spirit and the Person of the Holy Spirit. The Holy Spirit, as the living and powerful Word (Hebrews 4:12), works through our spirits to judge and expose the carnal ways of the soul (self). Mere flesh can accomplish nothing for Christ. Worse still, those who are dominated by self can hamper Christ's work, cause disharmony, distort pure teaching, get bound up in irrelevancies, and stunt their spiritual growth.

Yes indeed, Josheb. I was just struck by your helpful description and how our 'make-up' needs to be subjected to God's will. That's not the discussion here, but it's a crucial truth that affects our daily lives in Christ.

That's a particularly good description of everything that can hamper God's work in and through the Church, and in the life of each believer. All of this must be weighed by Christ and be subjected to His Spirit Who lives within. Without Him we can accomplish nothing because there's nothing good or profitable in our flesh, our carnal selves, even though it may seem so useful at times. We can't trust ourselves apart from Him. We need to have faith to respond when we hear Him. That's something all true believers can agree on, hopefully...

I read something on here this morning that reminded me how important it is to better understand our enemy's tactics. Sometimes discussions about Satan and the spiritual realm get sidetracked by distracting speculations and pet theories. There may even be a few interesting points to be considered. What matters most, however, is how effectively we wrestle against a wicked spiritual enemy whose influence causes untold harm throughout the true Church. Yes, when we are wholly submitted to God, through faith in Christ's authority we can resist the devil and he will flee from us. He will be confronted by our spiritual awareness and will recognise the Person of Christ in us. But we should also understand that our enemy can stand in our way, or perhaps gain an advantage. Even if we are aware of his schemes, there will be times when he will hinder us: "...we wanted to come to you... and yet Satan hindered us" (1st Thessalonians 2:18). He can cut through our intentions and thwart our plans, so we need to be set apart, fully prepared for conflict. The spiritual forces of wickedness will do their best to disrupt good works, corrupt godliness, block spiritual progress and distort true teaching. We are constantly set against an enemy who wants to frustrate the Holy Spirit's work in and through us. The more we accomplish in Christ the greater the opposition will be. Are we prepared? (Ephesians 6:10-18) Demonic activity can poison our attitudes and behaviour, which in turn causes "soulish" friction among true believers (consider James 3:15, 16). It isn't hard to find! Paul's experience strongly suggests our spiritual enemies — working as messengers of Satan — can also cause humbling health problems (see 2nd Corinthians 12:7). "Put on the full armor of God so that you can stand against the tactics of the Devil" (Ephesians 6:11, HCSB).

Why does any of this matter?

Yes, it matters a lot. Those who come to Christ in faith are obligated to live in a way that pleases Him. When you say "...they've met the only necessary requirement for salvation right? Because all you have to do is believe?" you're not taking into account all the ways in which they are now called to be pure and set apart to serve Him. For example: "...we have not ceased to pray for you and to ask that you may be filled with the knowledge of His will in all spiritual wisdom and understanding, so that you will walk in a manner worthy of the Lord, to please Him in all respects, bearing fruit in every good work and increasing in the knowledge of God" (Colossians 1:9, 10). It is a high calling and our response should be characterised by gladness and commitment.

God certainly wants us to hope continually in Him and regularly experience a joyful attitude, despite tough circumstances that test our patience. A joyful heart is good medicine that makes us smile, but when we are sad or depressed, the spirit is broken. Distracting ourselves with "fun" seems sensible and normal, but if it doesn't happen consciously through Christ it could easily become a selfish habit that burns up precious time. We are called to redeem the time and live as those who are always abounding in the work of the Lord. This makes sense when you measure the fragile brevity of life against our everlasting security.

Pain Harness Pain exchanges distant for devoted and so ignites love Pain exposes true riches and makes peace valuable too Pain insists we beseech and blubber Pain burns off clogging dross Pain points at limitations we had ignored, reduces us, crushes souls It's pain in the human frame It's pain we can't ignore It's pain that harnesses and educates It's pain that plunders all Pain buries us in frailty, mortality Pain devises worthwhile goals and ridicules every fantasy Pain convicts and announces crimes Pain ponders the future fearfully and obscures every horizon Pain is revelation and uncertainty paired (Psalm 119:67) © SGW 2008

Coverings of boards and skins may be likely, but, just out of interest, why do you ask? I'm not sure why, but I did a quick online search and found this, but don't know how useful or reliable it is: "...the Bible says “the waters were dried up from off the earth: and Noah removed the covering of the ark” (Genesis 8:13). The word “covering” is the Hebrew mikceh, which every other time it’s used refers to a covering of skin. Did Noah remove the wooden planks—the “skin” of the Ark—and build off-loading ramps?"

Wurmbrand was a highly intelligent man of strong Christian character, the author of many books. Back in the 80s I had the privilege of hearing him speak to an audience of several thousand. He didn't waste a word. It's the same with his writing. “For the rest of your life, you must realise that you depend more on Christ’s repairing your wrongs than on your not committing them in the first place. We are all men and seem to learn only from the errors which we commit. “With authority Peter reproaches the Jews: 'Ye denied the holy one'. He also had denied Him. This is the paradox of Christian life. We reprove others for sins we commit ourselves. If you do not accept these facts of life, you will wear yourself out in useless conflict with the unchangeable laws of existence. “Do not struggle to amend the unalterable tendencies of your own nature. Just yield to Jesus. Do not compose your life. Let Jesus compose it. Believe only that He has taken over control and give play to your feelings. He will take care to allow you as much sin as you need to be kept humble; He will give you as much righteousness as you need to shine before men. “The ordinary man has to choose which things to do and which not to do.” From Little Notes Which Like Each Other, by Richard Wurmbrand.

The Me in You You've worked your brain so hard Your conscience leaked out through. "I've sought the Lord about it, And this is what I'll do." Necessity has forced a trip With selfish slips and prayers amiss, Steam-opened flesh out on a limb Betrayed the Master with a kiss. None dares to point the finger, But what's that fruit on view? Call it anything but sin— I see the me in you. © SGW 1990

From Early Love To This (On Separation) Silent together that first winter’s night, Resting on the warm pillows of her breasts, Newly bound to hope. Then, like petals driven on a cold May wind, The sweet blossoms of vows and intentions Are torn away, devotion's promise dying unfulfilled. Contrite, miserably forgiven, A carnal soul crouches low, crushed by guilt, All gifts and treasures squandered. These are wretched burdens none should ever know: From the joys of virgin love to a heart blackened Stoking fires the clenching Spirit sought to overcome. Perfumed russet hair tossed on bedclothes she unfolded; Godly thoughts and pure bodies grafted in sleep. They believe every tomorrow will be shared. (Ephesians 5:25) © SGW 2010

I do wonder what your motivation in this distortion can be? It's one thing to suggest Paul and Peter preached different aspects of the Truth, but it's quite another to claim that they could not be preaching the same Gospel! Seriously? Contradictions are easily found by those who are intent on finding them. The harmony between these Apostles' teaching has been self-evident for 2000 years. Peter's documented difference from Paul stemmed from his misapplication of the Law. Beyond that, Peter in fact supported Paul's teaching: "There are some things in them [Paul's letters] that are hard to understand, which the ignorant and unstable twist to their own destruction, as they do the other Scriptures. You therefore, beloved, knowing this beforehand, take care that you are not carried away with the error of lawless people and lose your own stability" (1st Peter 3: 16, 17, ESV). Stability matters.

Jesus said, "Whosoever shall confess me before men, him will I confess also before my Father who is in heaven" (Matthew 10.32). When the Communists took over Cambodia, they entered a church during the Sunday service. Taking the Bible from the pulpit, an officer put it on the threshold. As his men stood by with rifles ready, he ordered the people to leave the building one by one and spit on the Bible. "Whoever does so will be free to go home," he said. "Whoever does not will be shot on the spot." Imagine for a moment that you were a member of the congregation. What would you have done under the circumstances? As one who has passed through similar situations, I know the thoughts that flash through the mind when put to such a test: "I have a bride. Her heart would break if I were to die. My time has not yet come... I have old parents who are invalids. They depend on me for support. They are doomed if I die. Love obliges me to spit... So what if I spit? Jesus knows that I have done so under duress. He forgave Peter, who denied him without being in such danger as this. He understands human weakness. In any case, I will spit only a little bit." These were people who had come to church to worship God and study his word, but they had never decided to die for Christ. One by one, Christians, who ten minutes before had praised Christ in song, left the church and spat on the Bible. Then came a girl of sixteen. When challenged at gunpoint to spit, she began to weep and said, "I cannot do it. I love God. The Bible is his letter to us. No child spits on his father's letter." She knelt down and wiped away the spittle from the cover of the Bible - and fell dead over the holy book, shot in the head. What would you have done? Many of us have answered a call to come forward to the altar. The altar in Jerusalem was a place where creatures died. Lambs, rams, doves, whatever came upon the altar died. Did you understand your response to the altar call in these terms? We are not all put in the same situation. Not everyone is forced to lay their life on the line. However, every Christian chose death at his conversion, if it was genuine. Rabbinical commentaries have said that the key to the Bible lies in the words, "This is the law, when a man dies..." (Numbers 19.14). If a person does not die for the law, they have never really considered it to be the law of God. This is how Christians think, too. A Christian is someone, "dead to sin" and "dead with Christ" (Romans 6.2,8). To respond to an altar call means to die to the world. If you have understood this rightly and lived in this spirit, you will make the right choice in times of crisis. Few of us may be asked to spit on the Bible literally; but to spit or not to spit is a choice we make daily when we are tempted. It means spitting on the Bible, indeed, on Christ, if we wilfully and consciously prefer a sin to his commandments. Let us choose rather to wipe away the spittle with which others have soiled his holy word and to be faithful at all times. (Richard Wurmbrand)

This reminds me of the type of sarcastic 'question' that gets asked by those who take the intellectual high ground and dismiss the Christian faith out of hand. But I'm not saying that's what's happening here... All we need to know is what we are told — those who are saved from wrath will put on immortality. They will reign with Christ where there will no longer be any tears, pain, mourning or death.