One Church, One Body
by Phil Maxwell September 1997
Foundations
The object of the following is to initiate a plan for continuing and completing the
work of building the Church according to the framework established by the Apostles nearly
2,000 years ago. Though not alone, the following verse best describes the nature of this
work, as it shows the spiritual attitude of these early believers as well as the outward
manifestation:
Ac.4:32 And the multitude of them that believed were of one
heart and of one soul: neither said any of them that ought of the things which he
possessed was his own; but they had all things common.
The original Apostles were called to spread the Gospel and lay the foundations of the
Church, not to finish it.
Ac.1:6 When they therefore were come together, they asked of
him, saying Lord, wilt thou at this time restore again the kingdom to Israel?
7 And he said unto them, It is not for you to know the times
or the seasons, which the Father hath put in his own power.
8 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.
1Co.3:10 According to the grace of God which is given unto me,
as a wise masterbuilder, I have laid the foundation, and another buildeth thereon. But let
every man take heed how he buildeth thereupon.
11 For other foundation can no man lay than that is laid,
which is Jesus Christ.
Ep.2:20 And are built upon the foundation of the apostles and
prophets, Jesus Christ himself being the chief corner stone;
Re.21:14 And the wall of the city had twelve foundations, and
in them the names of the twelve apostles of the Lamb.
Thus, shortly after the actual work of building of Church had begun, it came to an
abrupt halt because of fear prompted by the judgment of Ananias and Sapphira for
attempting to steal from God:
Ac.5:11 And great fear came upon all the church, and upon as
many as heard these things.
12 And by the hands of the apostles were many signs and
wonders wrought among the people; (and they were all with one accord in Solomons porch.
13 And of the rest durst no man join himself to them: but the
people magnified them.
In spite of this, the mission of spreading the Gospel went forth.
Ac.5:14 And believers were the more added to the Lord,
multitudes both of men and women.)
Nonetheless, the work is intended to be completed, and can only be completed on the
same spiritual foundation upon which it was begun.
Ph.1:6 Being confident of this very thing, that he which hath
begun a good work in you will perform it until the day of Jesus Christ:
Mt.5:6 Blessed are they which do hunger and thirst after
righteousness: for they shall be filled.
1Co.13:10 But when that which is perfect is come, then that
which is in part shall be done away.
Ep.4:13 Till we all come in the unity of the faith, and of the
knowledge of the Son of God, unto a perfect man, unto the measure of the stature of the
fulness of Christ:
Heb.9:11 But Christ being come an high priest of good things
to come, by a greater and more perfect tabernacle, not made with hands, that is to say,
not of this building;
Heb.11:10 For he [Abraham] looked for a city which hath
foundations, whose builder and maker is God.
He.11:39 And these all, having obtained a good report through
faith, received not the promise:
40 God having provided some better thing for us, that they
without us should not be made perfect.
12:1 Wherefore, seeing we also are compassed about with so
great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which doth so
easily beset us, and let us run with patience the race that is set before us,
Re.21:2 And I John saw the holy city, new
Jerusalem, coming down from God out of heaven, prepared as a bride adorned for her
husband.
The Church is a Spiritual Union
When Yahshua prayed to His Father, His prayers were not only heard but will be
answered. He prayed that His people would be "one" just like He was one with His
Father:
Jn.17:21 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.
22 And the glory which thou gavest me I have given them; that
they may be one, even as we are one:
Again, look at what was done amongst the early believers:
Ac.4:32 And the multitude of them that believed were of one
heart and of one soul:
Being made perfect is the hope true believers have, and that is exactly the point of
Yahshua's prayer in John 17:
Jn.17:23 I in them, and thou in me, that they may be made
perfect in one; and that the world may know that thou hast sent me, and hast loved them,
as thou hast loved me.
The hope of the true believers is to partake in the glory of God, which is promised in
the context of being the believers being "one" with each other, as well as with
Christ and the Father.
Ro.8:18 For I reckon that the sufferings of this present time
are not worthy to be compared with the glory which shall be revealed in us.
Ep.1:18 The eyes of your understanding being enlightened; that
ye may know what is the hope of his calling, and what the riches of the glory of his
inheritance in the saints,
Col.1:27 To whom God would make known what is the riches of
the glory of this mystery among the Gentiles; which is Christ in you, the hope of glory:
This is further described as Christ becoming one flesh with the Church, as prophesied
in Genesis 2:24:
Ep.5:30 For we are members of his body, of his flesh, and of
his bones.
31 For this cause shall a man leave his father and mother, and
shall be joined unto his wife, and they two shall be one flesh.
32 This is a great mystery: but I speak concerning Christ and
the church.
The question that must be addressed is, how can Yahshua be one with a Church that
refuses to be one? Clearly, the oneness of the body of Christ must precede the full union
between Christ and the Church.
Ep.4:4 There is one body, and one Spirit, even
as ye are called in one hope of your calling;
Ro.12:5 So we, being many, are one body in Christ, and every
one members one of another.
1Co.12:13 For by one Spirit are we all baptized into one body,
whether we be Jews or Gentiles, whether we be bond or free; and have been all made to
drink into one Spirit.
This unity within the body is the result of the individual members spiritually
discerning the true nature of their assembly in Christ. Such an understanding can only be
of the Spirit, not the flesh, as from the heart we understand and are moved by the fact
that in the body of Christ all things are held in common.
1Co.12:23 And those members of the body, which we think to be
less honourable, upon these we bestow more abundant honour; and our uncomely parts have
more abundant comeliness.
24 For our comely parts have no need: but God hath tempered
the body together, having given more abundant honour to that part which lacked:
25 That there should be no schism in the body; but that the
members should have the same care one for another.
26 And whether one member suffer, all the members suffer with
it; or one member be honoured, all the members rejoice with it.
Col.3:15 And let the peace of God rule in your hearts, to the
which also ye are called in one body; and be ye thankful.
There is no question as to the true spiritual nature of the Church, it is one, unified;
each member both affects and is affected by the whole body. The only question is do we
conduct ourselves as independent individuals first, or as members of the body of Christ?
This is simply a matter of either walking in the flesh or in the Spirit.
Love = Spiritual Mortar
The work of building the Spiritual Church cannot be accomplished through outer works of
the flesh. It can and should be manifested outwardly, but the essence of the bond between
the people of God must be rooted in the spiritual love of God for one another, as
commanded by the Lord Yahshua and echoed throughout the New Testament:
Mt.5:44 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;
Jn.13:34 A new commandment I give unto you, That ye love one
another; as I have loved you, that ye also love one another.
Jn.15:12 This is my commandment, That ye love one another, as
I have loved you.
Jn.15:17 These things I command you, that ye love one another.
Ga.5:13 For, brethren, ye have been called unto liberty; only
use not liberty for an occasion to the flesh, but by love serve one another.
1Pe.1:22 Seeing ye have purified your souls in obeying the
truth through the Spirit unto unfeigned love of the brethren, see that ye love one another
with a pure heart fervently:
1Pe.3:8 Finally, be ye all of one mind, having compassion one
of another, love as brethren, be pitiful, be courteous:
1Jn.3:11 For this is the message that ye heard from the
beginning, that we should love one another.
1Jn.3:23 And this is his commandment, That we should believe
on the name of his Son Jesus Christ, and love one another, as he gave us commandment.
1Jn.4:11 Beloved, if God so loved us, we ought also to love
one another.
2Jn.1:5 And now I beseech thee, lady, not as though I wrote a
new commandment unto thee, but that which we had from the beginning, that we love one
another.
Such love, however, is not something we naturally have. Rather, it is a fruit of the
indwelling Holy Spirit.
Ga.5:22 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace,
longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith,
23 Meekness, temperance: against such there is no law.
1Th.4:9 But as touching brotherly love ye need not that I
write unto you: for ye yourselves are taught of God to love one another.
1Jn.4:7 Beloved, let us love one another: for love is of God;
This love is a spiritual attribute, not works that are done outwardly.
1Jn.3:18 My little children, let us not love in word, neither
in tongue; but in deed and in truth.
1Pe.1:22 ....see that ye love one another with a pure heart
fervently:
Ro.8:12 Therefore, brethren, we are debtors, not to the flesh,
to live after the flesh.
1Ti.1:5 Now the end of the commandment is charity out of a
pure heart, and of a good conscience, and of faith unfeigned:
2Ti.2:22 Flee also youthful lusts: but follow righteousness,
faith, charity, peace, with them that call on the Lord out of a pure heart.
Such love is powerful, reaping profound consequences within the people of God and
touching those who witness it. It indicates being born of and knowing God.
1Jn.4:7 ....and every one that loveth is born of God, and
knoweth God.
1Jn.4:20 If a man say, I love God, and hateth his brother, he
is a liar: for he that loveth not his brother whom he hath seen, how can he love God whom
he hath not seen?
It indicates that God dwells within and allows for His love to be perfected in us.
1Jn.4:12 No man hath seen God at any time. If we love one
another, God dwelleth in us, and his love is perfected in us.
It purifies the soul.
1Pe.1:22 Seeing ye have purified your souls in obeying the
truth through the Spirit unto unfeigned love of the brethren, see that ye love one another
with a pure heart fervently:
It overcomes fear and bondage.
2Ti.1:7 For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of
power, and of love, and of a sound mind.
1Jn.4:18 There is no fear in love; but perfect love casteth
out fear: because fear hath torment. He that feareth is not made perfect in love.
Heb.2:15 And deliver them, who through fear of death were all
their lifetime subject to bondage.
It fulfills the law of God.
Ro.13:8 Owe no man any thing, but to love one another: for he
that loveth another hath fulfilled the law.
Ga.5:14 For all the law is fulfilled in one word, even in
this; Thou shalt love thy neighbor as thyself.
It delivers us from condemnation:
1Pe.4:8 And above all things have fervent charity among
yourselves: for charity shall cover the multitude of sins.
Ro.8:1 THERE is therefore now no condemnation to them which
are in Christ Jesus, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit.
....4 That the righteousness of the law might be fulfilled in
us, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit.
It accommodates our witnesses of the resurrection of Yahshua:
Jn.13:35 By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples,
if ye have love one to another.
Mt.5:14 Ye are the light of the world. A city that is set on a
hill cannot be hid.
15 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.
16 Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your
good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.
Ac.4:32 And the multitude of them that believed were of one
heart and of one soul: neither said any of them that ought of the things which he
possessed was his own; but they had all things common.
33 And with great power gave the apostles witness of the
resurrection of the Lord Jesus: and great grace was upon them all.
The true love of God will manifest in our attitude, words, and actions towards one
another.
Ro.8:14 For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, they are
the sons of God.
Ga.5:13 For, brethren, ye have been called unto liberty; only
use not liberty for an occasion to the flesh, but by love serve one another.
14 For all the law is fulfilled in one word, even in this;
Thou shalt love thy neighbor as thyself.
Ga.5:22 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace,
longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith,
23 Meekness, temperance: against such there is no law.
24 And they that are Christs have crucified the flesh with the
affections and lusts.
25 If we live in the Spirit, let us also walk in the Spirit.
26 Let us not be desirous of vain glory, provoking one
another, envying one another.
Ep.4:32 And be ye kind one to another, tenderhearted,
forgiving one another, even as God for Christs sake hath forgiven you.
Mt.5:3 Blessed are the poor in spirit: for theirs is the
kingdom of heaven.
4 Blessed are they that mourn: for they shall be comforted.
5 Blessed are the meek: for they shall inherit the earth.
6 Blessed are they which do hunger and thirst after
righteousness: for they shall be filled.
7 Blessed are the merciful: for they shall obtain mercy.
8 Blessed are the pure in heart: for they shall see God.
9 Blessed are the peacemakers: for they shall be called the
children of God.
Ac.4:32 And the multitude of them that believed were of one
heart and of one soul: neither said any of them that ought of the things which he
possessed was his own; but they had all things common.
Ro.12:10 Be kindly affectioned one to another with brotherly
love; in honour preferring one another;
Heb.10:24 And let us consider one another to provoke unto love
and to good works:
Col.3:12 Put on therefore, as the elect of God, holy and
beloved, bowels of mercies, kindness, humbleness of mind, meekness, longsuffering;
13 Forbearing one another, and forgiving one another, if any
man have a quarrel against any: even as Christ forgave you, so also do ye.
14 And above all these things put on charity, which is the
bond of perfectness.
15 And let the peace of God rule in your hearts, to the which
also ye are called in one body; and be ye thankful.
16 Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom;
teaching and admonishing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with
grace in your hearts to the Lord.
Sound the Warning
Ez.3:18 When I say unto the wicked, Thou shalt surely die; and
thou givest him not warning, nor speakest to warn the wicked from his wicked way, to save
his life; the same wicked man shall die in his iniquity; but his blood will I require at
thine hand.
19 Yet if thou warn the wicked, and he turn not from his
wickedness, nor from his wicked way, he shall die in his iniquity; but thou hast delivered
thy soul.
20 Again, When a righteous man doth turn from his
righteousness, and commit iniquity, and I lay a stumblingblock before him, he shall die:
because thou hast not given him warning, he shall die in his sin, and his righteousness
which he hath done shall not be remembered; but his blood will I require at thine hand.
21 Nevertheless if thou warn the righteous man, that the
righteous sin not, and he doth not sin, he shall surely live, because he is warned; also
thou hast delivered thy soul.
It would be relatively easy to attempt to emulate the early Church's outward work of
holding all things in common. Even in recent years, many have attempted to attain to the
blessings promised to the faithful without the spiritual love of God. Many such works have
ended disastrously, and all will ultimately come to nought.
It is impossible to be justified by works of the flesh.
Ro.3:20 Therefore by the deeds of the law there shall no flesh
be justified in his sight: for by the law is the knowledge of sin.
Ro.8:8 So then they that are in the flesh cannot please God.
Attempts to do so are not only destined to failure, but indicate a spiritually fatal
error.
Ga.5:4 Christ is become of no effect unto you, whosoever of
you are justified by the law; ye are fallen from grace.
Ro.8:13 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.
Even zealous pursuit of righteousness by works obstructs receiving the righteousness of
God.
Ro.10:1 BRETHREN, my hearts desire and prayer to God for
Israel is, that they might be saved.
2 For I bear them record that they have a zeal of God, but not
according to knowledge.
3 For they, being ignorant of Gods righteousness, and going
about to establish their own righteousness, have not submitted themselves unto the
righteousness of God.
We are strongly cautioned against self-righteousness, as a matter of the heart.
De.9:4 Speak not thou in thine heart, after that the Lord thy
God hath cast them out from before thee, saying, For my righteousness the Lord hath
brought me in to possess this land: but for the wickedness of these nations the Lord doth
drive them out from before thee.
Je.2:35 Yet thou sayest, Because I am innocent, surely his
anger shall turn from me. Behold, I will plead with thee, because thou sayest, I have not
sinned.
Pr.16:2 All the ways of a man are clean in his own eyes; but
the Lord weigheth the spirits.
Pr.21:2 Every way of a man is right in his own eyes: but the
Lord pondereth the hearts.
2Co.5:12 For we commend not ourselves again unto you, but give
you occasion to glory on our behalf, that ye may have somewhat to answer them which glory
in appearance, and not in heart.
Self-justification sows seeds of self-condemnation.
Job 9:20 If I justify myself, mine own mouth shall condemn me:
if I say, I am perfect, it shall also prove me perverse.
Those who think their works are good are fools.
Pr.12:15 The way of a fool is right in his own eyes: but he
that hearkeneth unto counsel is wise.
Pr.20:6 Most men will proclaim every one his own goodness: but
a faithful man who can find?
Self-righteousness is delusional.
Ps.36:2 For he flattereth himself in his own eyes, until his
iniquity be found to be hateful.
Pr.30:12 There is a generation that are pure in their own
eyes, and yet is not washed from their filthiness.
Is.44:20 He feedeth on ashes: a deceived heart hath turned him
aside, that he cannot deliver his soul, nor say, Is there not a lie in my right hand?
2Co.10:12 For we dare not make ourselves of the number, or
compare ourselves with some that commend themselves: but they, measuring themselves by
themselves, and comparing themselves among themselves, are not wise.
Ga.6:3 For if a man think himself to be something, when he is
nothing, he deceiveth himself.
Ja.1:22 But be ye doers of the word, and not hearers only,
deceiving your own selves.
Ja.1:26 If any man among you seem to be religious, and
bridleth not his tongue, but deceiveth his own heart, this mans religion is vain.
1Jn.1:8 If we say that we have no sin, we deceive ourselves,
and the truth is not in us.
Re.3:17 Because thou sayest, I am rich, and increased with
goods, and have need of nothing; and knowest not that thou art wretched, and miserable,
and poor, and blind, and naked:
The point is that even doing the things that are right in God's eyes for the wrong
motives or in the wrong spirit can be much worse than not doing them at all. The unity of
the body of Christ must first be the work of God through the Spirit in the hearts of His
people. Whatever outward manifestation comes of that must be the result of the
righteousness of God, not the means to attain righteousness.
Ro.3:21 But now the righteousness of God without the law is
manifested, being witnessed by the law and the prophets;
22 Even the righteousness of God which is by faith of Jesus
Christ unto all and upon all them that believe; for there is no difference:
Ro.10:3 For they, being ignorant of Gods righteousness, and
going about to establish their own righteousness, have not submitted themselves unto the
righteousness of God.
Ph.1:11 Being filled with the fruits of righteousness, which
are by Jesus Christ, unto the glory and praise of God.
Ph.3:9 And be found in him, not having mine own righteousness,
which is of the law, but that which is through the faith of Christ, the righteousness
which is of God by faith:
The scribes and Pharisees tried to attain righteousness through the works of the flesh,
and in so doing condemned themselves:
Jn.9:41 Jesus said unto them, If ye were blind, ye should have
no sin: but now ye say, We see; therefore your sin remaineth.
Mt.23:26 Thou blind Pharisee, cleanse first that which is
within the cup and platter, that the outside of them may be clean also.
27 Woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites for ye are
like unto whited sepulchres, which indeed appear beautiful outward, but are within full of
dead mens bones, and of all uncleanness.
28 Even so ye also outwardly appear righteous unto men, but
within ye are full of hypocrisy and iniquity.
....38 Behold, your house is left unto you desolate.
Nothing illustrates the extreme measure of caution which this subject should be given
better than the account found in Acts 5. In this passage, we find the halt to the very
same work of building the Church, the Spiritual Temple of God the Father, which we look to
restarting brought on by those very things addressed in the above passages.
While we should seriously regard the magnitude of the work of God through the Apostles
and the earliest members of the Church, we should also recognize that these events serve
as a foreshadow of things of far greater magnitude coming in the days ahead.
The eternal Temple of YAHWEH, the Church, is a spiritual building designed from the
foundations of the earth to be the eternal dwelling place of the Almighty. We can see how
meticulous Yahweh was in the design of the tabernacle, a foreshadow of the same:
Ex.25:8-9 And let them make me a sanctuary; that I may dwell
among them. According to all that I shew thee, after the pattern of the tabernacle, and
the pattern of all the instruments thereof, even so shall ye make it.
Ac.7:44 Our fathers had the tabernacle of witness in the
wilderness, as he had appointed, speaking unto Moses, that he should make it according to
the fashion that he had seen.
...48 Howbeit the most High dwelleth not in temples made with
hands; as saith the prophet.
He.8:5 Who serve unto the example and shadow of heavenly
things, as Moses was admonished of God when he was about to make the tabernacle: for, See,
saith he, that thou make all things according to the pattern shewed to thee in the mount.
Obviously, the eternal Temple of God must be assembled and constructed with even more
meticulous care than was the tabernacle of Moses' day.
1Co.3:17 If any man defile the temple of God, him shall God
destroy; for the temple of God is holy, which temple ye are.
Re.21:27 And there shall in no wise enter into it any thing
that defileth, neither whatsoever worketh abomination, or maketh a lie: but they which are
written in the Lambs book of life.
Considering these things, we must consider that the fateful course Ananias and Sapphira
took when they endeavored to be joined to the Holy Temple of God Almighty through lies and
covetousness.
Ac.5:1 BUT a certain man named Ananias, with Sapphira his
wife, sold a possession,
2 And kept back part of the price, his wife also being privy
to it, and brought a certain part, and laid it at the apostles feet.
3 But Peter said, Ananias, why hath Satan filled thine heart
to lie to the Holy Ghost, and to keep back part of the price of the land?
4 Whiles it remained, was it not thine own? and after it was
sold, was it not in thine own power? why hast thou conceived this thing in thine heart?
thou hast not lied unto men, but unto God.
There was apparently an understanding and agreement that Ananias had made with the
Apostle regarding this matter beforehand. Notice that Peter didn't even ask him if the
money being presented was the entire proceeds from the sale, as he did Sapphira in verse
8. Ananias had an opportunity to be joined to the Apostles, and selling the particular
land and bringing the proceeds to them was a part of the conditions. Even after selling
the land, Ananias had the choice to accept or reject these terms. His fatal error was that
he attempted to be joined to the Apostles under false pretenses. He was struck dead
because he endeavored to be joined to the Holy Temple of God through lies and
covetousness.
Ac.5:5 And Ananias hearing these words fell down, and gave up
the ghost: and great fear came on all them that heard these things.
6 And the young men arose, wound him up, and carried him out,
and buried him.
7 And it was about the space of three hours after, when his
wife, not knowing what was done, came in.
8 And Peter answered unto her, Tell me whether ye sold the
land for so much? And she said, Yea, for so much.
9 Then Peter said unto her, How is it that ye have agreed
together to tempt the Spirit of the Lord? behold, the feet of them which have buried thy
husband are at the door, and shall carry thee out.
10 Then fell she down straightway at his feet, and yielded up
the ghost: and the young men came in, and found her dead, and carrying her forth, buried
her by her husband.
Ananias was judged for breaking the covenant he had made with the Apostles in trying to
keep money he had agreed to give to the Church. No questions were asked of him when he
tried to seal the deal, as the mere act of presenting the money constituted a lie.
Ananias' wife, Sapphira, was quizzed, however, to determine her part in the matter. Found
guilty of the conspiracy to lie to God and pollute the holy work God was doing, she, too,
was struck dead.
This matter caused great fear that effectively shut the door to the actual forming of
the Temple of God, though many continued even to this day to be added to the Lord.
Ac.5:11 And great fear came upon all the church, and upon as
many as heard these things.
12 And by the hands of the apostles were many signs and
wonders wrought among the people; (and they were all with one accord in Solomons porch.
13 And of the rest durst no man join himself to them: but the
people magnified them.
14 And believers were the more added to the Lord, multitudes
both of men and women.)
Ananias and Sapphira serve as a foreshadow of things to come, and a warning to those of
our generation as the door that was shut in response to their judgment will be opened once
again. A call is going out to our generation according to those who believe even without
seeing:
Jn.20:29 Jesus saith unto him, Thomas, because thou hast seen
me, thou hast believed: blessed are they that have not seen, and yet have believed.
Those who would consider enjoining themselves to this end time, mighty work of God must
have what Ananias and Sapphira lacked: an understanding of the Almighty that is founded on
a fear of encountering His wrath which is dispensed according to His righteous judgment of
the unseen intentions of our hearts:
Pr.9:10 The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom: and
the knowledge of the holy is understanding.
1S.16:7 ...for the Lord seeth not as man seeth; for man
looketh on the outward appearance, but the Lord looketh on the heart.
No matter how many warnings are issued, there will still be those who deny the power of
God, who will seek to partake in the blessings of fellowship under false pretenses.
2Ti.3:1 THIS know also, that in the last days perilous times
shall come.
2 For men shall be lovers of their own selves, covetous,
boasters, proud, blasphemers, disobedient to parents, unthankful, unholy,
3 Without natural affection, trucebreakers, false accusers,
incontinent, fierce, despisers of those that are good,
4 Traitors, heady, highminded, lovers of pleasures more than
lovers of God;
5 Having a form of godliness, but denying the power thereof:
from such turn away.
6 For of this sort are they which creep into houses, and lead
captive silly women laden with sins, led away with divers lusts,
7 Ever learning, and never able to come to the knowledge of
the truth.
8 Now as Jannes and Jambres withstood Moses, so do these also
resist the truth: men of corrupt minds, reprobate concerning the faith.
9 But they shall proceed no further: for their folly shall be
manifest unto all men, as theirs also was.
Just like Ananias and Sapphira, some will actually sell their souls for the sake of
earthly gain:
Mt.16:25-26 For whosoever will save his life shall lose it:
and whosoever will lose his life for my sake shall find it. For what is a man profited, if
he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul? or what shall a man give in exchange
for his soul?
A Righteous Heart
Does it matter what we give to God? Notice how Yahshua took time to watch the people
casting their money into the Temple treasury:
Mk.12:41 And Jesus sat over against the treasury, and beheld
how the people cast money into the treasury: and many that were rich cast in much.
Then notice how the measure of judgment is applied, as Yahshua declares the relatively
puny offering of one lonely widow greater than all the abundant offerings of others.
Mk.12:42 And there came a certain poor widow, and she threw in
two mites, which make a farthing.
43 And he called unto him his disciples, and saith unto them,
Verily I say unto you, That this poor widow hath cast more in, than all they which have
cast into the treasury:
44 For all they did cast in of their abundance; but she of her
want did cast in all that she had, even all her living.
The measure of God's righteous judgment is not according to what is given, but rather
what is kept back. This widow demonstrated God's righteousness in trusting Him for
everything by keeping nothing for herself.
The same lesson is found in Yahshua's teachings throughout the Gospels. For instance,
the righteous young rich man who sought eternal life was told:
Mt.19:21 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.
Just as with the widow above, the issue Yahshua judged by wasn't measured according to
what was given, but what was kept. He didn't tell him to give a part, half, or even most
of his possessions away. He told him if he truly wanted to be perfect, he must keep
nothing of this world for himself. To this man's credit, he didn't do as Ananias and agree
to something he couldn't fulfill, for he walked away realizing he couldn't truly do as
Yahshua had said.
Measure the Task
It would have been better for Ananias and Sapphira to have simply kept their land and
gone about their lives. We must be very careful to rightly discern the will of God, and
submit to Him with completely willing hearts, having no reservations. Any uncertainty of
His will or of our own willingness to yield to it must be resolved BEFORE venturing into
any work of the Spirit of God.
Lu.9:62 And Jesus said unto him, No man, having
put his hand to the plough, and looking back, is fit for the kingdom of God.
Ro.14:23 ...for whatsoever is not of faith is sin.
If we believe that God Almighty is the Creator of all things, then we must also believe
that He is all powerful. He created both the heavens and the earth, things seen and things
unseen. The internal intangible work of perfecting us in His Spirit is a promise to the
faithful.
Ph.1:6 Being confident of this very thing, that he which hath
begun a good work in you will perform it until the day of Jesus Christ:
Ph.2:13 For it is God which worketh in you both to will and to
do of his good pleasure.
Heb.13:21 Make you perfect in every good work to do his will,
working in you that which is wellpleasing in his sight, through Jesus Christ; to whom be
glory for ever and ever. Amen.
What we must do is simply be humble and honest before God, believing that He is
merciful beyond our imaginations, as well as powerful. If something is lacking in our
knowledge, wisdom, or faith, we can count on God to accomplish the necessary corrections,
if we prefer God's righteousness over the things of this life:
Mt.5:6 Blessed are they which do hunger and thirst after
righteousness: for they shall be filled.
Ps.51:17 The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit: a broken
and a contrite heart, O God, thou wilt not despise.
Is.57:15 For thus saith the high and lofty One that inhabiteth
eternity, whose name is Holy; I dwell in the high and holy place, with him also that is of
a contrite and humble spirit, to revive the spirit of the humble, and to revive the heart
of the contrite ones.
Is.66:2 For all those things hath mine hand made, and all
those things have been, saith the Lord: but to this man will I look, even to him that is
poor and of a contrite spirit, and trembleth at my word.
Ja.1:5 If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that
giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him.
Ga.5:22-23 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace,
longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, meekness, temperance: against such there is no
law.
The main point of this presentation is directly and clearly addressed in Luke 14, and
the issue of measuring the task is clearly outlined in verses 28 - 32:
Lu.14:26 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.
27 And whosoever doth not bear his cross, and come after me,
cannot be my disciple.
28 For which of you, intending to build a tower, sitteth not
down first, and counteth the cost, whether he have sufficient to finish it?
29 Lest haply, after he hath laid the foundation, and is not
able to finish it, all that behold it begin to mock him,
30 Saying, This man began to build, and was not able to
finish.
31 Or what king, going to make war against another king,
sitteth not down first, and consulteth whether he be able with ten thousand to meet him
that cometh against him with twenty thousand?
32 Or else, while the other is yet a great way off, he sendeth
an ambassage, and desireth conditions of peace.
33 So likewise, whosoever he be of you that forsaketh not all
that he hath, he cannot be my disciple.
Even though he walked away, the wealthy young man who sought eternal life presents an
example we should follow.
Mk.10:17 And when he was gone forth into the way, there came
one running, and kneeled to him, and asked him, Good Master, what shall I do that I may
inherit eternal life?
18 And Jesus said unto him, Why callest thou me good? there is
none good but one, that is, God.
19 Thou knowest the commandments, Do not commit adultery, Do
not kill, Do not steal, Do not bear false witness, Defraud not, Honour thy father and
mother.
20 And he answered and said unto him, Master, all these have I
observed from my youth.
21 Then Jesus beholding him loved him, and said unto him, One
thing thou lackest: go thy way, sell whatsoever thou hast, and give to the poor, and thou
shalt have treasure in heaven: and come, take up the cross, and follow me.
22 And he was sad at that saying, and went away grieved: for
he had great possessions.
23 And Jesus looked round about, and saith unto his disciples,
How hardly shall they that have riches enter into the kingdom of God
This young man enjoyed all the blessings of this life, but still zealously sought out
Yahshua; he knew there was more. According to the teachings of the Pharisees, it would
seem he had nothing to be concerned over, but he still wanted to know how to gain eternal
life. He sought answers instead of presuming knowledge. Even though he was unable to do
what Yahshua had said, he didn't argue the point. Neither did he consider plotting a way
to keep some of his riches while seeming to follow Yahshua's instructions, like Ananias
and Sapphira did. Rather he went away grieved because of his own shortcomings (a broken
and contrite spirit).
We have no specific record about this man's fate, but the reflection we get of his
heart is clear.
Ps.34:18 The Lord is nigh unto them that are of a broken
heart; and saveth such as be of a contrite spirit.
As one of the questions I hope to someday have answered, I would be surprised to find
out that this young man wasn't amongst those of the early church.
Ac.4:34-35 Neither was there any among them that lacked: for
as many as were possessors of lands or houses sold them, and brought the prices of the
things that were sold, and laid them down at the apostles feet: and distribution was made
unto every man according as he had need.
Whether or not this particular man was involved in this move of God, these people were
a living example of the very words Yahshua spoke immediately after this dialogue:
Mk.10:23 And Jesus looked round about, and saith unto his
disciples, How hardly shall they that have riches enter into the kingdom of God
24 And the disciples were astonished at his words. But Jesus
answereth again, and saith unto them, Children, how hard is it for them that trust in
riches to enter into the kingdom of God
25 It is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle,
than for a rich man to enter into the kingdom of God.
26 And they were astonished out of measure, saying among
themselves, Who then can be saved?
27 And Jesus looking upon them saith, With men it is
impossible, but not with God: for with God all things are possible.
The Church of the living God will be built, and it is not a temple made of earthly
materials. The people of God will be bound together in one Spirit, the Holy Spirit of God
Almighty, and the glory of God will be manifested in these saints. It will be built upon
the foundation and within the framework established by the Apostles.
The righteous glory of God cannot be purchased, so let no one think they can get away
with what Ananias and Sapphira attempted. Rather, let all who will humble themselves as a
child before the Almighty trust that He will complete the good work that has been started
within them. Rather than justifying our covetousness of earthly things, let us be like the
young ruler who grieved over his shortcomings. God can set us free from even our own sin,
He can make us perfect.
All Things in Common
If we are to consider coming together as the early church did, holding all things in
common, it is appropriate that we consider this in the context of our material
possessions, but not only in this context. The reason it is relative is because the fruits
of the flesh all grow from a tree that's roots are in the love of money.
1Ti.6:10 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.
If we truly want to be rid of the fruits of the flesh, rather than just spend our lives
trying to contain them, we must lay the axe to the root of the tree from which they grow.
Lu.3:9 And now also the axe is laid unto the root of the
trees: every tree therefore which bringeth not forth good fruit is hewn down, and cast
into the fire.
This is the point upon which the widow who cast her last two mites into the treasury
was commended on, and it is the mark set before the young ruler if he wanted to go all the
way with God. Likewise, forsaking all was the first step the Apostles took in becoming the
disciples of Yahshua, it was the manifestation of the love of God that those outside the
Church saw, and it is the message to this generation as we come to the close of this age.
Lu.14:33 So likewise, whosoever he be of you that forsaketh
not all that he hath, he cannot be my disciple.
However difficult this may seem to actually apply to our lives, it is truly only the
outer dressing on a much more profound Spiritual bond God will establish between His
people. The first members of the Church were first of one heart and soul, and they held
all things in common, not just material possessions.
Ac.4:32 And the multitude of them that believed were of one
heart and of one soul: neither said any of them that ought of the things which he
possessed was his own; but they had all things common.
Ro.12:5 So we, being many, are one body in Christ, and every
one members one of another.
The gifts of the Spirit, for instance, are given for the benefit of the entire body,
not the individual:
1Co.12:7 But the manifestation of the Spirit is given to every
man to profit withal.
We share in each others faults and sins, also:
Ja.5:16 Confess your faults one to another, and pray one for
another, that ye may be healed. The effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth
much.
1Jn.5:16 If any man see his brother sin a sin which is not
unto death, he shall ask, and he shall give him life for them that sin not unto death.
There is a sin unto death: I do not say that he shall pray for it.
We share in each others burdens:
Ga.6:2 Bear ye one anothers burdens, and so fulfil the law of
Christ.
We share in each others sufferings and honor:
1Co.12:26 And whether one member suffer, all the members
suffer with it; or one member be honoured, all the members rejoice with it.
We share a common hope:
Ep.4:4-6 There is one body, and one Spirit, even as ye are
called in one hope of your calling; One Lord, one faith, one baptism, One God and Father
of all, who is above all, and through all, and in you all.
....11 And he gave some, apostles; and some, prophets; and
some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers;
12 For the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the
ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ:
13 Till we all come in the unity of the faith, and of the
knowledge of the Son of God, unto a perfect man, unto the measure of the stature of the
fulness of Christ:
14 That we henceforth be no more children, tossed to and fro,
and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the sleight of men, and cunning
craftiness whereby they lie in wait to deceive;
15 But speaking the truth in love, may grow up into him in all
things, which is the head, even Christ:
16 From whom the whole body fitly joined together and
compacted by that which every joint supplieth, according to the effectual working in the
measure of every part, maketh increase of the body unto the edifying of itself in love.
The essential ingredient is that we share a common vision of the body of Christ. We
must see ourselves and each other as members of Christ, rather than of Adam, for there is
life in Christ and only death in Adam. In the Spirit we look for a city whose builder and
maker is God, wherein the glory of God dwells and we have eternal life. In the flesh, the
only hope we have is to make the most of this life and ultimately die. Because of our
certain impending death in the flesh, we cannot help but constantly seek and defend
whatever gains we make in this life. As they say, life is short, so if we live in the
flesh, we are compelled to devote ourselves to getting whatever we can while we can. In
the Spirit we have eternal life, and therefore no need for anything except to honor the
God of our salvation, who can and will meet our every need.
God wants us to be free of the vanity of earthly pursuits of earthly things, none of
which have any lasting value. This is the curse of sin, but God has made a way of escape
for those who will accept it in His Son, Yahshua the Lord. If we will humbly accept our
own inability to please God in the flesh, He will transform us from within into the image
of Yahshua.
Only by this transforming power of God within can we truly honor God as it is written,
by genuinely preferring one another over ourselves, as Yahshua Himself gave the example.
Ro.12:10 Be kindly affectioned one to another with brotherly
love; in honour preferring one another;
Lay the Axe to the Root
How many of us are willing to cast ourselves before the Savior, as the young ruler did,
and ask Him what we must do? No doubt we all have done and given much that is pleasing to
God, but the question still remains, will we be perfect? Will we go all the way with God?
As long as we are sowing to both the flesh and the Spirit, we are in the midst of the
battle between these opposing elements. In other words, we fall short of the glory of God
which is found in His righteousness. This righteousness is promised to the faithful, but
one way or another, the power of the flesh must be completely subdued before this can ever
be accomplished.
Ga.5:16 This I say then, Walk in the Spirit, and ye shall not
fulfil the lust of the flesh.
17 For the flesh lusteth against the Spirit, and the Spirit
against the flesh: and these are contrary the one to the other; so that ye cannot do the
things that ye would.
We are like the Israelites scattered powerlessly around Egypt under the oppression of
Pharaoh, and again cowered down in fear over the intimidating stature of Goliath, in both
cases failing to recognize the power and faithfulness of God Almighty to fulfill every
promise He has spoken. Are we not doubleminded, wanting both the blessings of God and the
world?
Ja.4:1 FROM whence come wars and fightings among you? come
they not hence, even of your lusts that war in your members?
2 Ye lust, and have not: ye kill, and desire to have, and
cannot obtain: ye fight and war, yet ye have not, because ye ask not.
3 Ye ask, and receive not, because ye ask amiss, that ye may
consume it upon your lusts.
4 Ye adulterers and adulteresses, know ye not that the
friendship of the world is enmity with God? whosoever therefore will be a friend of the
world is the enemy of God.
5 Do ye think that the scripture saith in vain, The spirit
that dwelleth in us lusteth to envy?
6 But he giveth more grace. Wherefore he saith, God resisteth
the proud, but giveth grace unto the humble.
7 Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he
will flee from you.
8 Draw nigh to God, and he will draw nigh to you. Cleanse your
hands, ye sinners; and purify your hearts, ye doubleminded.
9 Be afflicted, and mourn, and weep: let your laughter be
turned to mourning, and your joy to heaviness.
10 Humble yourselves in the sight of the Lord, and he shall
lift you up.
We bear fruit out of two trees, the flesh and the Spirit. Sooner or later, one of these
will win out over the other.
Ga.5:19 Now the works of the flesh are manifest, which are
these; Adultery, fornication, uncleanness, lasciviousness,
20 Idolatry, witchcraft, hatred, variance, emulations, wrath,
strife, seditions, heresies,
21 Envyings, murders, drunkenness, revellings, and such like:
of the which I tell you before, as I have also told you in time past, that they which do
such things shall not inherit the kingdom of God.
22 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace,
longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith,
23 Meekness, temperance: against such there is no law.
24 And they that are Christs have crucified the flesh with the
affections and lusts.
25 If we live in the Spirit, let us also walk in the Spirit.
26 Let us not be desirous of vain glory, provoking one
another, envying one another.
We can continue to be content in simply pruning and subduing the fruits of the flesh.
This is good, but it doesn't get us to the promised land. The Israelites resisted leaving
Egypt, wanting simply to work out a way to make their lives there more tolerable. The
problem was that as God had promised to Abraham, His ultimate blessings upon them wasn't
in Egypt. Even Joseph who had prospered greatly in Egypt made them swear to carry his
bones out when they returned to the land God had promised them. How soon we lose sight of
the faithfulness of God!
So it is with the promise of God's righteousness to be fulfilled within the framework
of the perfected body of Christ. Sooner or later, the axe must be laid to the root of the
tree of the flesh; far better for us that this be sooner.
Lu.3:9 And now also the axe is laid unto the root of the
trees: every tree therefore which bringeth not forth good fruit is hewn down, and cast
into the fire.
I don't know of a single tree that bears fruit that looks like the roots that the tree
is planted in. However, I can trust that the Word of God is true, and the root of the tree
that bears the fruits of the flesh is clearly identified:
1Ti.6:10 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.
The Day shall Declare it
Though I have endeavored to give due regard to the absolutely essential spiritual
transformation that those in Christ must undergo, at some point we all must go through the
fire, so to speak. The work of God in the Spirit is hidden, but the day is coming where
everything that is hidden will be manifested openly.
1Co.4:5 Therefore judge nothing before the time, until the
Lord come, who both will bring to light the hidden things of darkness, and will make
manifest the counsels of the hearts: and then shall every man have praise of God.
Ps.44:21 Shall not God search this out? for he knoweth the
secrets of the heart.
Ec.12:14 For God shall bring every work into judgment, with
every secret thing, whether it be good, or whether it be evil.
Mk.4:22 For there is nothing hid, which shall not be
manifested; neither was any thing kept secret, but that it should come abroad.
Ro.2:16 In the day when God shall judge the secrets of men by
Jesus Christ according to my gospel.
Fire was an important part of the outpouring of the Holy Spirit on the day of
Pentecost, and immediately thereafter, Peter preached to the end of 3,000 souls being
added to the Church. Just like the young ruler mentioned earlier, those who witnessed this
came to a point where they were pricked in their hearts, and asked Peter what they should
do. Peter's response is a very familiar passage:
Ac.2:37 Now when they heard this, they were pricked in their
heart, and said unto Peter and to the rest of the apostles, Men and brethren, what shall
we do?
38 Then Peter said unto them, Repent, and be baptized every
one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the
gift of the Holy Ghost.
39 For the promise is unto you, and to your children, and to
all that are afar off, even as many as the Lord our God shall call.
Not so familiar, however, is what followed as Peter exhorted them to save themselves
from their "untoward generation." After this, 3,000 gladly received his word and
were baptized into the Church.
40 And with many other words did he testify and exhort,
saying, Save yourselves from this untoward generation.
41 Then they that gladly received his word were baptized: and
the same day there were added unto them about three thousand souls.
We don't have a precise record of the many words by which Peter exhorted these people,
but we know his words were anointed with the same fire that appeared as cloven tongues
upon those who were waiting in one accord. The substance of the results of his many words
is evident in the next few verses, as these 3,000 demonstrated a complete change of heart
in their lives:
42 And they continued stedfastly in the apostles doctrine and
fellowship, and in breaking of bread, and in prayers.
43 And fear came upon every soul: and many wonders and signs
were done by the apostles.
44 And all that believed were together, and had all things
common;
45 And sold their possessions and goods, and parted them to
all men, as every man had need.
46 And they, continuing daily with one accord in the temple,
and breaking bread from house to house, did eat their meat with gladness and singleness of
heart,
47 Praising God, and having favour with all the people. And
the Lord added to the church daily such as should be saved.
The fire that came upon the Apostles and those gathered with them revealed the true
essence of their hearts, and their ministry accomplished the same amongst those who heard
their words. As profound as the numbers of souls who suddenly came into the Church were,
it is also true that many more were proven to be enemies of God by the same words.
1Co.3:13 Every mans work shall be made manifest: for the day
shall declare it, because it shall be revealed by fire; and the fire shall try every mans
work of what sort it is.
I can't say when and how the fire of God is going to come upon this generation, but you
can be assured that it is coming. How shall we stand? We must first, as the young ruler,
run and cast ourselves at the feet of Yahshua asking what we must do, prepared to accept
whatever answer is given. Even if we are unable to move according to His instructions,
there is still hope, for the throne of Grace is still receiving all who will come boldly
before it.
What Shall We Do?
I mince no words in this, the Scriptures clearly show that God's people must be one in
Spirit, joined together in the unity of the faith, and that they must forsake their
earthly lives in order to reach this mark. The foundations and framework of this spiritual
building are already established, but it is true that times and circumstances have
changed.
When the prophet Haggai spoke the words of YAHWEH to the Israelites who had returned
from the captivity, He didn't speak volumes of detailed instructions on how to build the
Temple as He did Moses in regards to the tabernacle. He just told them to do it. They
already had an established foundation and framework for building, as we do for the
spiritual Temple of God.
Their times and circumstances had changed dramatically, also, but when they committed
to the work, God blessed them. They had to work out particular plans, priorities, and many
other details, but God blessed them. So will He do for us, if we will rise in indignation
over the state of His Holy Temple, and commit our lives to the task of building it.
Let us, therefore, follow the Word of God, and count the costs and measure the
opposition for what appears to be an impossible task of building in the midst of a strong
enemy's kingdom.
Lu.14:28 For which of you, intending to build a tower, sitteth
not down first, and counteth the cost, whether he have sufficient to finish it?
29 Lest haply, after he hath laid the foundation, and is not
able to finish it, all that behold it begin to mock him,
30 Saying, This man began to build, and was not able to
finish.
31 Or what king, going to make war against another king,
sitteth not down first, and consulteth whether he be able with ten thousand to meet him
that cometh against him with twenty thousand?
32 Or else, while the other is yet a great way off, he sendeth
an ambassage, and desireth conditions of peace.
33 So likewise, whosoever he be of you that forsaketh not all
that he hath, he cannot be my disciple.
Know this, before the Temple can ever be measured, a plummet line must be stretched
forth.
Zec.4:10 For who hath despised the day of small things? for
they shall rejoice, and shall see the plummet in the hand of Zerubbabel with those seven;
they are the eyes of the Lord, which run to and fro through the whole earth.
Re.11:1 AND there was given me a reed like unto a rod: and the
angel stood, saying, Rise, and measure the temple of God, and the altar, and them that
worship therein.
May YAHWEH bless us through Yahshua our Lord with faith, wisdom, and knowledge as we
endeavor to set forth a plan to build His Temple.
This Untoward Generation
Ac.2:40 And with many other words did he
testify and exhort, saying, Save yourselves from this untoward generation.
Having thoroughly treated the spiritual aspects of the coming together of God's people,
we need to look at the tangible realities of how these could be manifested in the times we
live in. How could we, as the early disciples, hold all things in common in this
generation?
Before anyone could make an informed choice to make this sort of commitment, the
parameters must be clearly outlined. There shouldn't be any more external rules and
regulations than absolutely necessary and/or clearly supported by the Scriptures, but
diligence should be given to providing full disclosure of the relative obligations and
expectations those who may consider enjoining in this work will encounter.
Leadership and authority
These are critical issues for no matter how explicitly guidelines and parameters are
detailed out, there will arise issues that require judgment to be made, though only within
the limitations that have been established and agreed upon by all.
It must be understood that leadership is spoken of here in the context of Scriptural
guidelines, not worldly standards, and that these are diametric opposites in spirit even
though many similarities exist in their outward appearances.
We know that Christ is the head of the Church, and that God is the head of Christ. We
also know that the Church was founded upon 12 apostles as the earthly representatives of
Christ, and that they bore final earthly authority over all Church affairs.
The original twelve disciples were appointed apostles personally by Yahshua, Matthias
was selected by casting lots amongst the remaining eleven to replace Judas', and Paul was
appointed through the corresponding visions and words given to him and the disciple named
Ananias.
The positions held by these apostles were left unfilled after they passed away, and to
this day they remain so. Many modern claims notwithstanding, there are no earthly
authorities in a position to legitimately appoint men to the office of apostle. This
creates a breakdown in the chain of authority from the throne of God Almighty and Yahshua
to the earthly Church, the results of which are evident in the disarrayed condition of the
Church.
However, the subject at hand is the material and spiritual coming together of God's
people, with the hope being that the ultimate perfection of the body of Christ will follow
that by the power of God. Before the outpouring of the Holy Spirit and the notable
beginnings of the Church there were 120 disciples of Yahshua gathered together in one
accord, looking and waiting for this promise of God. Likewise, in the days of the
rebuilding of the Temple, there was first a gathering of the Israelites that returned from
Babylon for this cause.
With an understanding that there is much more to the perfection of the Church than the
people of God coming together, the Scriptures allow for the only office within the Church
necessary for this first step to be filled.
Ac.6:2 Then the twelve called the multitude of the disciples
unto them, and said, It is not reason that we should leave the word of God, and serve
tables.
3 Wherefore, brethren, look ye out among you seven men of
honest report, full of the Holy Ghost and wisdom, whom we may appoint over this business.
4 But we will give ourselves continually to prayer, and to the
ministry of the word.
5 And the saying pleased the whole multitude: and they chose
Stephen, a man full of faith and of the Holy Ghost, and Philip, and Prochorus, and
Nicanor, and Timon, and Parmenas, and Nicolas a proselyte of Antioch:
6 Whom they set before the apostles: and when they had prayed,
they laid their hands on them.
The above represents a unique manner of appointing men to offices in the Church, but in
the context of their responsibilities it makes sense. These seven men, selected by the
assembly, were not put in a place of establishing doctrine nor issuing decrees, neither
were they tasked with exercising authority over the Church. Their role was simply to
administrate the earthly resources that were collectively held and distributed amongst
those who were of a heart to "hold all things common."
Though this may seem like a major undertaking to us, at the time it was more or less a
sundry detail of the Church's affairs. It was no less important, I might add, but in the
Church of the living God there are a number of matters of far greater importance.
Thus, since we are only talking about a first step towards a far greater goal, the
appointment of deacons to administrate the financial and material affairs of God's people
would be a necessary preliminary step. In so doing we would not be attempting to establish
an authority chain from God of our own choosing, we would simply be divesting our
individual authority over our material possessions into the hands of representatives of
the body collective.
Such appointees could only operate within the authority and discretion given them by
the people, so they would truly be servants not leaders, though as such should be rendered
appropriate honor and respect.
Their responsibilities would fall into the general categories of accounting and
administration, and they would be empowered to render decisions within the mandate they
are granted by those whom they serve.
Accounting
There were careful records kept in the early Church with the apparent goal of
administrating the overall material resources of the Church equitably and according to the
needs of the members. It is easy to understand how this proved so burdensome to the
Apostles that they delegated it to the seven deacons chosen by the people in an effort to
prevent strife.
Like a checkbook register, accounting is worthless if it doesn't account for
everything. This is not to say that every detail of every dime earned or spent has to be
entered into a ledger, but the overall view of assets, liabilities, income, and expenses
must be accounted for.
Thorough and accurate accounting would be essential to effective and equitable
administration, and is dependent upon the integrity of the members to be accomplished.
(Case in point: Ananias and Sapphira.)
A commitment to be fully accountable to the group through the deacons must be made by
every member. As the righteous poor widow, in order to be enjoined to this work, each must
cast their entire living into the temple treasury. This commitment would have to extend
beyond initial entry into the fellowship as well. As members of family, individuals would
need to subject both their ongoing material gains and requirements to the group, and
forsake temptations to keep things hidden in reverent fear of God, as discussed above.
1Co.12:26 And whether one member suffer, all the members
suffer with it; or one member be honoured, all the members rejoice with it.
Administration
We know that there was a daily ministration in the early Church, but it is doubtful
that each member had to wait in line daily for their substance for the day. Considering
that there were 5,000 members suddenly living in this manner, it is more likely that there
was a schedule established for taking care of such business. It is also doubtful that
everyone who came into the Church liquidated all their belongings and brought the proceeds
to the Apostles.
The focus issue is in the spirit of our attitudes regarding material things. The early
members were of one heart and soul, the Bible says, and (as a result) they considered
nothing they possessed as their own. Whether or not a family stays in their home, keeps
their cars, holds on to their clothes and kitchen appliances become somewhat irrelevant if
this is the spirit of their attitude.
Initial admission should be thoroughly reviewed in regards to significant matters
before the covenant is finalized. In order to accomplish this, there would need to be a
consistent process incorporated whereby the individual presents a full accounting of their
material and financial status, and through prayer and discussion with the deacons,
determinations are made regarding major issues.
In this process, everything must be laid out in the open: possessions, income,
expenses, savings, debts and obligations, etc. No final commitment should be made until
all these things are dispositioned, all questions answered, and a full understanding of
all tenets of fellowship accomplished. At this point, there is no obligation either way,
and as emphasized in the opening sections of this presentation, careful attention must be
paid to assuring that whatever decisions made are rooted in the convictions of the heart
by the Holy Spirit and without any doubts.
Once past this introductory phase, wherein the potential member has been fully apprised
of the initial steps involved in joining in this fellowship, there should ordinarily be a
time allowance for prayerful consideration, and, depending on the above determinations
made, for executing those decisions. Like a legal contract is normally written, reviewed,
and agreed upon first, then only after careful consideration is executed, so should this
be done. A model for this is found in Peter's words to Ananias, where it is clear that he
knew what was required, but the agreement was not sealed until he had both sold the land
and brought the money to the Apostles. The principle is also well addressed in Luke
14:28-32, as discussed earlier, in measuring the cost of whatever we seek to do in the
Lord before undertaking it.
For the sake of safety to potential members, it would probably do well to require at
least some token of sincerity wherever possible, such as Ananias and Sapphira were. John
the Baptist also preached according to this principle as he encountered hypocrites seeking
his baptism in his prepatory ministry for the Messiah:
Lu.3:3 And he came into all the country about Jordan,
preaching the baptism of repentance for the remission of sins;
4 As it is written in the book of the words of Esaias the
prophet, saying, The voice of one crying in the wilderness, Prepare ye the way of the
Lord, make his paths straight.
5 Every valley shall be filled, and every mountain and hill
shall be brought low; and the crooked shall be made straight, and the rough ways shall be
made smooth;
6 And all flesh shall see the salvation of God.
7 Then said he to the multitude that came forth to be baptized
of him, O generation of vipers, who hath warned you to flee from the wrath to come?
8 Bring forth therefore fruits worthy of repentance, and begin
not to say within yourselves, We have Abraham to our father: for I say unto you, That God
is able of these stones to raise up children unto Abraham.
9 And now also the axe is laid unto the root of the trees:
every tree therefore which bringeth not forth good fruit is hewn down, and cast into the
fire.
10 And the people asked him, saying, What shall we do then?
11 He answereth and saith unto them, He that hath two coats,
let him impart to him that hath none; and he that hath meat, let him do likewise.
12 Then came also publicans to be baptized, and said unto him,
Master, what shall we do?
13 And he said unto them, Exact no more than that which is
appointed you.
14 And the soldiers likewise demanded of him, saying, And what
shall we do? And he said unto them, Do violence to no man, neither accuse any falsely; and
be content with your wages.
Administration also must be conducted on an ongoing basis, as the basis for this is the
sharing of the material possessions, gains, losses, etc. Like a family, there is no way to
anticipate future circumstances, but as much as possible allowances for extremes should be
established.
The principles and objectives have been covered, but many questions remain. A common
treasury would need to be established, but detailed questions of administration would be
better addressed on a more collective basis, probably through the selected deacons, and
approved by the initial gathering prior to inception. How properties are
dispositioned,
funds collected, debts settled, distributions made, special needs met, deacons selected,
and many other issues exists.
Questions
I began this as an effort to outline a plan within the foundation and framework of the
early Church that accounted for modern circumstances. I am fully convinced that this needs
to be done, both the plan and the implementation of it. Just like the Israelites in Egypt,
most of God's people neither realize the bondage they are under through the flesh, nor the
deliverance available by the mighty hand of YAHWEH, if for no other reason, to fulfill the
promises He has made.
Though much of it is still somewhat obscure, I am consumed with this vision. It has
been present with me for many years, and has gradually pressed upon me with increasing
conviction and clarity throughout that time.
Though I think I could formulate such a plan, I am convinced that this goes beyond what
Yahshua would have me do, at least at this time. I believe it should be a collective
effort of whoever the Lord has chosen for this small beginning, perhaps simply a handful
of faithful believers who will say "yes," figuratively dropping their nets and
forsaking all when Yahshua says "follow me, and I will make you fishers of men."
Based on what I have presented here, I can outline a number of questions that need to
be addressed, considered, and resolved:
Is a physical gathering necessary? We are bound by the Spirit, which does not require
such, and it is at least conceivable that this work could be initiated without some or all
of the members actually relocating. Perhaps such determinations need to be made on an
individual basis, accounting for the good of the whole? Maybe small groups need to be
formed?
What about houses, cars, and other personal possessions? Such things could be very
difficult to incorporate in an equitable distribution. Some are better off financially and
materially than others. How far do we go in equalizing such things?
On what basis are needs determined? Obviously, what one considers a sacrificial
lifestyle may be considered luxurious to another. What one considers a necessity may be
seen as frivolous.
Marriage and family relationships are another factor to consider. What is a man or
woman to do if convicted to be enjoined in such a work of God, but their spouse is not?
On what basis are debts dealt with? What position should there be on debt accumulation
through credit cards and other means?
Should provisions be made for members potentially desiring to withdraw from this
fellowship?
How should legal status, if any, be arranged?
Qualifications and authority for allowing people to come into the fellowship? Who
decides?
How are incomes administered? Do people keep their paychecks, pay their own expenses
and supply the excess to or draw the deficiency from the group? Or, do we centralize bill
paying and keep from our incomes only the portion determined to be our distribution?
Obviously, the list of seemingly foreboding questions, difficulties, and complexities
is long. Only by faith can such things be resolved, but our God is able to supply all our
needs according to His riches in glory.
Conclusion
As we go about our daily lives, expending ourselves continually for the things of the
world that have a way of always enslaving us, perhaps we should "consider our
ways" as the Word of Yahweh exhorted the Israelites through the prophet Haggai.
There is no room in the perfect Church of the Living God for deviation from the plan of
God. It will only be constructed exactly as YAHWEH has set forth. It cannot be measured to
any chief cornerstone that Yahshua, nor can it be laid on any foundation other than the
Apostles established. It must be rooted in, and only in, the Holy Spirit of God,
manifested in the pure love of God amongst the brethren. This love cannot be perfected in
us as long as we are sowing to the flesh, even in part.
If we truly believe that Yahshua came, died, and rose from the dead, we must also know
that He is coming again. Dare I say, He is coming again soon. When Yahshua comes, the
question we should all be considering very carefully is will He find faith on the earth?
Will he find faith in us?
May we stand up against our flesh, not seeking a peace treaty, but rather a complete
victory over it, as David did when he saw Goliath, saying, "who is this
uncircumcised Philistine, that he should defy the armies of the living God?"
(1S.17:26)
May God grant us a broken and contrite spirit that we might be freed from our vain and
carnal ambitions and hopes, that we might receive in exchange His righteousness, glory,
and kingdom.
Luke 12:21-40
21 So is he that layeth up treasure for himself, and is not
rich toward God.
22 And he said unto his disciples, Therefore I say unto you,
Take no thought for your life, what ye shall eat; neither for the body, what ye shall put
on.
23 The life is more than meat, and the body is more than
raiment.
24 Consider the ravens: for they neither sow nor reap; which
neither have storehouse nor barn; and God feedeth them: how much more are ye better than
the fowls?
25 And which of you with taking thought can add to his stature
one cubit?
26 If ye then be not able to do that thing which is least, why
take ye thought for the rest?
27 Consider the lilies how they grow: they toil not, they spin
not; and yet I say unto you, that Solomon in all his glory was not arrayed like one of
these.
28 If then God so clothe the grass, which is to day in the
field, and to morrow is cast into the oven; how much more will he clothe you, O ye of
little faith?
29 And seek not ye what ye shall eat, or what ye shall drink,
neither be ye of doubtful mind.
30 For all these things do the nations of the world seek
after: and your Father knoweth that ye have need of these things.
31 But rather seek ye the kingdom of God; and all these things
shall be added unto you.
32 Fear not, little flock; for it is your Father's good
pleasure to give you the kingdom.
33 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.
34 For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also.
35 Let your loins be girded about, and your lights burning;
36 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.
37 Blessed are those servants, whom the lord when he cometh
shall find watching: verily I say unto you, that he shall gird himself, and make them to
sit down to meat, and will come forth and serve them.
38 And if he shall come in the second watch, or come in the
third watch, and find them so, blessed are those servants.
39 And this know, that if the goodman of the house had known
what hour the thief would come, he would have watched, and not have suffered his house to
be broken through.
40 Be ye therefore ready also: for the Son of man cometh at an
hour when ye think not.
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