L
Hi Great questions!
First off we know that Christians struggle with their identity because Paul wrote extensively to Christians telling them over and over who they are in Christ. And he pointed to their behavior to show them that it wasn't matching up to them being in Christ. One time even going so far as to say, examine yourselves to see if you really are in Christ.
One Scripture that people love to quote is the one that says fornicators, liars, etc will not inherit the Kingdom, but very next verse Paul says, but that's not who you are... which is exactly what I am doing here. (Behavior => Identity).
As far as does it matter how we act. Yes of course it does. But there's a deeper level at play here. If we think we "have to" follow the things of God we still are discovering how good He is. As far as obeying my teaching that Jesus taught. Paul didn't detract from that. Like I've said grace empowers holiness. And in this case obedience.
The Kingdom of God is manifested on Earth when we obey the King. It's His Kingdom flowing through us from our obedience. It's His reign and rule.
Consider it like this, God loves a joyful giver. What is Paul saying here? True repentance comes from the heart. It's joyful. God doesn't want us to give because we "have to", but because we "want to". And while that seems like crazy talk to the natural mind, it's because it's supposed to be. We preach a supernatural Kingdom with a renewed mindset. It's NOT discerned by flesh. It's discerned by Spirit. And it's completely foolish to the wise.
One thing we must realize is that "principalities and powers" are watching us. God's character and nature is on exhibit for all to see. All of creation is waiting for the sons of God to be manifested. Why? Because we are made in His image.
The knowledge of His glory will cover the Earth. Notice it's not His glory, but the knowledge of His glory.
Moses interaction with God connects glory with His goodness. Moses asked to see His glory and God declared His goodness (not a peep about glory).
Knowing the goodness of God leads us into repentance. And it also reveals His glory.
C.
First off we know that Christians struggle with their identity because Paul wrote extensively to Christians telling them over and over who they are in Christ. And he pointed to their behavior to show them that it wasn't matching up to them being in Christ. One time even going so far as to say, examine yourselves to see if you really are in Christ.
One Scripture that people love to quote is the one that says fornicators, liars, etc will not inherit the Kingdom, but very next verse Paul says, but that's not who you are... which is exactly what I am doing here. (Behavior => Identity).
As far as does it matter how we act. Yes of course it does. But there's a deeper level at play here. If we think we "have to" follow the things of God we still are discovering how good He is. As far as obeying my teaching that Jesus taught. Paul didn't detract from that. Like I've said grace empowers holiness. And in this case obedience.
The Kingdom of God is manifested on Earth when we obey the King. It's His Kingdom flowing through us from our obedience. It's His reign and rule.
Consider it like this, God loves a joyful giver. What is Paul saying here? True repentance comes from the heart. It's joyful. God doesn't want us to give because we "have to", but because we "want to". And while that seems like crazy talk to the natural mind, it's because it's supposed to be. We preach a supernatural Kingdom with a renewed mindset. It's NOT discerned by flesh. It's discerned by Spirit. And it's completely foolish to the wise.
One thing we must realize is that "principalities and powers" are watching us. God's character and nature is on exhibit for all to see. All of creation is waiting for the sons of God to be manifested. Why? Because we are made in His image.
The knowledge of His glory will cover the Earth. Notice it's not His glory, but the knowledge of His glory.
Moses interaction with God connects glory with His goodness. Moses asked to see His glory and God declared His goodness (not a peep about glory).
Knowing the goodness of God leads us into repentance. And it also reveals His glory.
C.
That was just a simply beautiful post Cee. Very much appreciate the insight God has obviously blessed you with. Do keep posting here on these threads. You are not here enough brother. ladylynn