This verse gives a direct command. Do not believe every spirit. That seems simple enough, but in fact we find that believers do not test or judge every word that is spoken in the church. There is a tendency to believe anything that is propounded from the platform. So once again the subject of judgement comes up with a command to do so, but we have learned that it is most definitely not censorious judgement.

First of all teachers may speak with a message from an evil spirit. So also can every member of the assembly. The whole of christenom speaks with the voices of evil spirits. We are to be aware and consider "And we know that we are of God, and the whole world lieth in wickedness." 1John.5:19. With that information we are cast upon the Lord and His Word to avoid being caught up in this error. It is therefore of utmost importance that we carefully weigh every word heard. Let us note who should be judged.

What we are really looking for is to satisfy ourselves that the words spoken come to us, from the speaker in the power of the Holy Spirit. We have already learned that the words heard must be according to scripture. We are reminded that, "To the law and to the testimony: if they speak not according to this word, it is because there is no light in them." Isa.40:8. The teacher is locked into the Word of God, and that is because that is the only source of all truth

"For I know this, that after my departing shall grievous wolves enter in among you, not sparing the flock. Also of your own selves shall men arise, speaking perverse things, to draw away disciples after them." Acts.20:29-30

In this commandment the elders are to "take heed" first to themselves and then to all the flock because they had been commissioned by God to shepherd them. As good shepherds they were to keep the wolves out of the flock, but unfortunately some of their own number would seek to destroy the flock. Not only shepherds were to judge, but also so were the flock where possible. Particularly teachers are commanded to judge; "Let the prophets speak two or three, and let the other judge." 1Cor.14:29.

To begin with, to be commanded to judge would be virtually unnecessary except for the fact that christians are disobedient, and error abounds. The indwelling Holy Spirit constantly informs the christian of the source of the message. As one christian has said, "The alarm bells ring when something is wrong whether it be my actions or actions of others. Similarly when I listen to ministry and something said is wrong I am warned." This is the function of the Holy Spirit, and our response is to react accordingly and examine the situation or teaching. Because we may be disobedient the commands are there to further guide us.

Furthermore the scripture says, "Beware of false prophets, which come to you in sheep's clothing, but inwardly they are ravening wolves." Mat.7:15. The disciples were warned of this in the early days of the Lord’s ministry. Further scriptural warnings are given, ‘Now the Spirit speaketh expressly, that in the latter times some shall depart from the faith, giving heed to seducing spirits, and doctrines of devils." 1Tim.4:1. " But there were false prophets also among the people, even as there shall be false teachers among you, who privily shall bring in damnable heresies, even denying the Lord that bought them, and bring upon themselves swift destruction." 2Pet.2:1. Now we have noted that considerable warning is given with respect to the judging everything we hear.

The work of the Devil is to destroy the work of God, to regain his lost property the human soul, and above all, he hates God. "There is a conspiracy of her prophets in the midst thereof, like a roaring lion ravening the prey; they have devoured souls; they have taken the treasure and precious things; they have made her many widows in the midst thereof." Eze.22:25. "Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour:" 1Peter 5:8. Here we see the christian is the victim in the fight between Satan and God. It is a fight which Satan can not win hence his ferocity before he is defeated.

The main attack is against the doctrine of the "Godhead" as it is often put. It means that the persons of the triune God are slandered in such a way as to make it look plausible to the disobedient and the very young. The person of the Lord Jesus Christ is the first target.

Here once again the scripture is clear as to the method used by Satan and his followers, and his teaching in particular. "For many deceivers are entered into the world, who confess not that Jesus Christ is come in the flesh. This is a deceiver and an antichrist." 2John.1:7. Now we will note the truth concerning the Lord;

1. He is the Creator God

"In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. The same was in the beginning with God. All things were made by him; and without him was not any thing made that was made." John.1:1-3. He was God eternal in the heavens. "For by him were all things created, that are in heaven, and that are in earth, visible and invisible, whether they be thrones, or dominions, or principalities, or powers: all things were created by him, and for him:" Col 1:16

2. He became a Man

"Therefore the Lord himself shall give you a sign; Behold, a virgin shall conceive, and bear a son, and shall call his name Immanuel." Isa.7:14. Here we see the birth of the man-God prophesied long before the Bethlehem scene. "Now the birth of Jesus Christ was on this wise: When as his mother Mary was espoused to Joseph, before they came together, she was found with child of the Holy Ghost." Mat 1:18. Here we see He was born a human being with a mother Mary and the Father being the Holy Spirit. "But when the fulness of the time was come, God sent forth his Son, made of a woman, made under the law," Gal.4:4. The truth of the Lord’s incarnation has been attacked by demons ever since His crucifixion. Let us hold it fast.

3. He was God And Man

"And without controversy great is the mystery of godliness: God was manifest in the flesh, justified in the Spirit, seen of angels, preached unto the Gentiles, believed on in the world, received up into glory." 1Tim.3:16.

Here He is being described as God in human form. He therefore could say, "Jesus saith unto him, Have I been so long time with you, and yet hast thou not known me, Philip? he that hath seen me hath seen the Father; and how sayest thou then, Shew us the Father?" John 14:9. This is very simple to understand. Jesus of Nazareth, a perfect man, was also God. The human form served at least two purposes, firstly a form which we could understand and communicate with, and secondly a means whereby we could see the actions and attitudes of God portrayed by a perfect man. "I and my Father are one." John.10:30. " If I do not the works of my Father, believe me not. But if I do, though ye believe not me, believe the works: that ye may know, and believe, that the Father is in me, and I in him." John.10:37-38

Man had to pay for man’s sin. As the infinitely Perfect man He could pay the price for finite sin.

." Eph.5:2. "And walk in love, as Christ also hath loved us, and hath given himself for us an offering and a sacrifice to God for a sweetsmelling savor. "Who gave himself for us, that he might redeem us from all iniquity, and purify unto himself a peculiar people, zealous of good works." Tit 2:14.

"For to this end Christ both died, and rose, and revived, that he might be Lord both of the dead and living." Rom.14:9

"But we see Jesus, who was made a little lower than the angels for the suffering of death, crowned with glory and honour; that he by the grace of God should taste death for every man." Heb.2:9. And they sung a new song, saying, Thou art worthy to take the book, and to open the seals thereof: for thou wast slain, and hast redeemed us to God by thy blood out of every kindred, and tongue, and people, and nation;" Rev.5:9. The heavenly song is that He died, and rose, and is seated in the heavenly places. The important factor to understand in the death of Christ is that He died as a man. Even the simplest can understand that God could not die! The man Christ Jesus gave His life a ransom for us all. One should also note carefully there is no mention of blood, "Behold my hands and my feet, that it is I myself: handle me, and see; for a spirit hath not flesh and bones, as ye see me have." Luke.24:39. "But one of the soldiers with a spear pierced his side, and forthwith came there out blood and water." John.19:34. His blood is the sign and seal of a life given.

He was raised in the power of an endless life. The power in His resurrection was the almighty power of God. He is now in a place which was His before time began, and furthermore he will never be humiliated again. He has glorified the Father and now, "But made himself of no reputation, and took upon him the form of a servant, and was made in the likeness of men: And being found in fashion as a man, he humbled himself, and became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross. Wherefore God also hath highly exalted him, and given him a name which is above every name: That at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of things in heaven, and things in earth, and things under the earth; And that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father." Php.1:7-11. "And what is the exceeding greatness of his power to us-ward who believe, according to the working of his mighty power, Which he wrought in Christ, when he raised him from the dead, and set him at his own right hand in the heavenly places," Eph.1:19-20.

The word devil in the New Testament is probably better understood if we use the word demon. The doctrine of demons will first of all attack the above doctrines of the person of the Lord Jesus Christ. They have been doing so since the resurrection, but in these last days they have been very successful for there are very few christians who believe the truth. They this is so should not stop us from being alert to any such attack.

To judge, discriminate, and evaluate whatever is taught is even the more important today as we are in the last days, in the Laodicean era. It is a special trap for the last days.

"Now the Spirit speaketh expressly, that in the latter times some shall depart from the faith, giving heed to seducing spirits, and doctrines of devils; Speaking lies in hypocrisy; having their conscience seared with a hot iron; Forbidding to marry, and commanding to abstain from meats, which God hath created to be received with thanksgiving of them which believe and know the truth." 1Tim.4:1-3. These are some of the doctrine of demons mentioned in these verses, and have seen some others in the notes above. There is another which we should note.

The pentecostal demon spreads a totally wrong teaching concerning the Holy Spirit, and this should be understood by every student of scripture. This being so it is essential that the functions of the Holy Spirit are studied from the scriptures. Unfortunately there is a lot of loose talk about the Holy Spirit, and we will go to the law and the testimony. The doctrines concerning the Holy Spirit are so distorted, and the results so damaging that we should note first the fundamental facts concerning Him.

He is a gift given by the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ. He is not something we earn, or bargain for, but something given by the Lord to comfort and strengthen us during His physical absence.

First let us take note of what the Lord says in John’s gospel:

"And I will pray the Father, and he shall give you another Comforter, that he may abide with you for ever;" John.14:16.

But when the Comforter is come, whom I will send unto you from the Father, even the Spirit of truth, which proceedeth from the Father, he shall testify of me:" John.15:26.

" -he shall teach you all things, and bring all things to your remembrance, whatsoever I have said unto you." John.14:26.

" he shall testify of me:" John.15:26.

Nevertheless I tell you the truth; It is expedient for you that I go away: for if I go not away, the Comforter will not come unto you; but if I depart, I will send him unto you." John.16:7.

And when he is come, he will reprove the world of sin, and of righteousness, and of judgment:" John.16:8*

There should be need to stress that the Lord speaks absolute truth, for He is the Truth, and in the above verses He says that the Holy Spirit has at least seven functions:

1. will dwell with you forever

2. shall testify of the Lord.

3. teach us all things

4. bring all things to our remembrance that He has said to us: ie. His Word the scriptures

5. reprove the world of sin, righteousness, and judgement

6. endure us with power.

7. Washing of regeneration, and renewing of the Holy Ghost brings us into a new state of things... (not new birth but new state of things) Titus.3:5

He is the Lord’s gift to us when He was glorified.

He is not the giver of gifts; He is a gift. The Lord is the giver: "But unto every one of us is given grace according to the measure of the gift of Christ. And he gave some, apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers;" Eph.4:7,11 He does not bless us: At salvation: "Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who hath blessed us with all spiritual blessings in heavenly places in Christ" Eph.1;3. There are no more blessings than all or every blessing.

"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?" Acts.2:37. Please note there is not one word about asking for the Holy Spirit or any such thing as we shall see more below in these notes.

Again let us go to the Word of God: "And, behold, I send the promise of my Father upon you: but tarry ye in the city of Jerusalem, until ye be endued with power from on." Luke.24:49. "(But this spake he of the Spirit, which they that believe on him should receive: for the Holy Ghost was not yet given; because that Jesus was not yet glorified.)." John.7:39. Even the very youngest child can see that the disciples were told to wait in Jerusalem, and secondly the wait was till He was glorified. At that the time the gift of the Holy Spirit would become their indwelling comforter. "And, being assembled together with them, commanded them that they should not depart from Jerusalem, but wait for the promise of the Father, which, saith he, ye have heard of me." Acts.1:4. Not once but twice the Lord tells His disciples to wait in Jerusalem. That was a message to the disciples, but it is a warning to those who come after. There is no waiting for the gift. It is demonic when people go into some sort of frenzy and pray for the Holy Spirit when they are not saved. It is terribly tragic when the unsaved thus praying claim to have received the spirit.

This spirit can not under any circumstances, be the Holy Spirit for He is only given to the believer. There is not one single word in the scriptures to say we are saved by receiving the Spirit. We are saved by faith in the work and person of the Lord Jesus Christ. For those who hold tarry meetings for the Holy Spirit are thousands of kilometers out and nearly 2000 years too late. The Lord has been glorified, and the Holy Spirit is given on believing.

"In whom ye also trusted, after that ye heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation: in whom also after that ye believed, ye were sealed with that Holy Spirit of promise," Eph.1:13. In this verse it is vitally important to note that the verb "believed" in the Greek in is the aorist tense which means that the word after is not in the original. The word "after" can not, under any circumstances, have anything to do with time. In English it means, "having heard and having believed you were sealed". To suggest that there is any time gap after believing is totally wrong. As a consequence of believing ye were sealed. It is an automatic process outside the power of the believing one; God seals. Everything to do with salvation is obtained by pure grace. There is nothing we have to do to receive gifts of grace. In fact it is insulting to the Giver, because that way we act as if He can not be trusted. "And grieve not the Holy Spirit of God, whereby ye are sealed unto the day of redemption." Eph 4:30*

The believer is sealed with not by the Holy Spirit, and that is a badge of ownership. We have been purchased by the Lord who will take His possession to be with Him forever. Now notice how long the seal remains, until the day of redemption. The seal is God the Holy Spirit and sin would grieve Him. We may ask, why are we sealed? The answer is simple, we are His property, and the seal proves it. We are His forever. Let us praise the Lord for eternal salvation!

"For John truly baptized with water; but ye shall be baptized with the Holy Ghost not many days hence

These are the Lord’s words. They would be baptised in the power of the Holy Spirit at the feast of Pentecost. That was the day He was glorified. "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." Ac 2:38*. In the message to those witnessed the deeds done on the day of Pentecost Peter says to the Jews; repent and be baptised, and ye shall receive the "gift of the Holy Spirit". Now note very carefully they did not have to pray or agonise for Him, it was a straight out gift.

"And they of the circumcision which believed were astonished, as many as came with Peter, because that on the Gentiles also was poured out the gift of the Holy Ghost." Acts.10:45. For it is impossible for those who were once enlightened, and have tasted of the heavenly gift, and were made partakers of the Holy Ghost," Heb.6:4. Please note there is no mention of tarrying or praying for the Holy Spirit. He was given.

If ye then, being evil, know how to give good gifts unto your children: how much more shall your heavenly Father give the Holy Spirit to them that ask him?" Luke.1:13* This is the only scripture that says to ask for the Holy spirit, but notice the context is to do with the Old Testament before the resurrection. Furthermore the O.T. saints could pray; "Cast me not away from thy presence; and take not thy holy spirit from me." Ps.51:11 This is a case in the Old Testament where the Psalmist is asking the Lord not to take the Holy Spirit away from him. There are occasions where the Lord did this in the Old Testament, but never in the New. The O.T. prophets searched the scriptures to find out when this gift would be given and never taken away again. That, of course, was the day of Pentecost.

The Holy Spirit operates and dwells in the believer will perform the same function for us as He did for the Lord Jesus Christ is raising Him from the dead. "But if the Spirit of him that raised up Jesus from the dead dwell in you, he that raised up Christ from the dead shall also quicken your mortal bodies by his Spirit that dwelleth in you." Ro 8:11. Previously He worked in our regeneration, "Not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to his mercy he saved us, by the washing of regeneration, and renewing of the Holy Ghost;" Tit 3:5.

Likewise the Spirit also helpeth our infirmities: for we know not what we should pray for as we ought: but the Spirit itself maketh intercession for us with groanings which cannot be uttered." Rom 8:26. This should be carefully noted as we have mentioned prayer in our notes above. Of course we may be perplexed in prayer by not knowing what we should pray for. If so, then let us wait on God and we will be prompted by the Holy Spirit. But ye, beloved, building up yourselves on your most holy faith, praying in the Holy Ghost," Jude.1:20.

"Know ye not that ye are the temple of God, and that the Spirit of God dwelleth in you?" 1Cor.3:16.

"What? know ye not that your body is the temple of the Holy Ghost which is in you, which ye have of God, and ye are not your own?" 1Cor.6:19. The scriptures never say baptized "by" the Holy Spirit, but "with" the Holy Spirit.

First the verse in 1Cor.3 is speaking of the local assembly, but the second verse above is clear. Our body is the dwelling place of the Holy Spirit; or rather He has taken up residence in our own mortal bodies. It would appear unfortunate that we, as christians, do not really take this into consideration. In the relevant verses of 1John above the operating power is the indwelling Holy Spirit. That is why we can make spiritual judgements and walk in fellowship with the Father and His Son. This is not directly written in the verses of 1John, but above all notice what the Holy Spirit does for us. He gives us that close relationship with the Father and His Son which enables us to pray and receive answers. Secondly it allows us to judge what is not of the Spirit, but of Satan. "Now the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, that ye may abound in hope, through the power of the Holy Ghost." Rom.15:13.

Most emphatically speaking in tongues is not for today. It had a very special purpose which it achieved, and finally in about AD 70 it ceased to exist as a gift of the spirit. The speaking of tongues today is spurious and is demon controlled. These demons can influence born again christians to imitate the gift of speaking tongues, to the detriment of all concerned both speaker and hearer alike. That christians do not see this does not change the fact that it is a demon activity today.

In fact every time tongues are spoken in the New Testament it had a twofold purpose specifically directed at the unbelieving Jews. They have moved me to jealousy with that which is not God; they have provoked me to anger with their vanities: and I will move them to jealousy with those which are not a people; I will provoke them to anger with a foolish nation." Deut.32:21. "But I say, did not Israel know? First Moses saith, I will provoke you to jealousy by them that are no people, and by a foolish nation I will anger you." Rom.10:19. "I say then, Have they stumbled that they should fall? God forbid: but rather through their fall salvation is come unto the Gentiles, for to provoke them to jealousy." Rom.11:11

These three verses clearly show that God used the gift of tongues as a witness to the unsaved Jew. Let us notice the Apostle Paul’s words "In the law it is written, with men of other tongues and other lips will I speak unto this people; and yet for all that will they not hear me, saith the Lord. Wherefore tongues are for a sing, not to them that believe, but to them that believe not." 1Cor.14:21. This should be clearly understood and considered. Our Pentecostal friends are totally unaware of this fact. Again the scriptures are clear that the sign is for the Jews as mentioned above.

Now let us look very closely the next three verses. "For with stammering lips and another tongue will he speak to this people. 11."For with stammering lips and another tongue will he speak to this people. 12 To whom he said, This is the rest wherewith ye may cause the weary to rest; and this is the refreshing: yet they would not hear. 13. But the word of the LORD was unto them precept upon precept, precept upon precept; line upon line, line upon line; here a little, and there a little; that they might go, and fall backward, and be broken, and snared, and taken." Isa.28:11-13,

We notice a similar statement in Mat.13:17, and that is prophesied in Isa.6:9-10. We see this prophesy quoted in Heb.10:7-9. They crucified the Lord because of hardness of their heart. Now we can see some of God’s purpose in using tongues strictly for the Jew only.

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Math.13.17

"Therefore speak I to them in parables: because they seeing see not; and hearing they hear not, neither do they understand." and note "And he said, Go, and tell this people, Hear ye indeed, but understand not; and see ye indeed, but perceive not. Make the heart of this people fat, and make their ears heavy, and shut their eyes; lest they see with their eyes, and hear with their ears, and understand with their heart, and convert, and be healed." Isa.6:9-10

‘Then said I, Lo, I come (in the volume of the book it is written of me,) to do thy will, O God. Above when he said, Sacrifice and offering and burnt offerings and offering for sin thou wouldest not, neither hadst pleasure therein; which are offered by the law; Then said he, Lo, I come to do thy will, O God. He taketh away the first, that he may establish the second." Heb.10.9-10. Without question tongues are for the unbelieving Jews.

Now we have noted two special reasons for tongues

1. God says I will provoke the Jew to jealousy. The Jews were a disobedient people, Christ rejecters.

2. That the Jews would be snared in unbelief, and their heart hardened.

3. Acts.19.6. See below.

Apart from 1Cor.13 & 14 speaking in a foreign language is mentioned in three places

Cretes and Arabians, we do hear them speak in our tongues (language) the wonderful works of God." Acts.2:11. This is the event which occurred at the day of Pentecost, and Peter describes it quite clearly. The major point is that the foreign speaking Jews heard of the wonderful works of God in their own language

"For they heard them speak with tongues (languages), and magnify God. Then answered Peter, Can any man forbid water, that these should not be baptised, which have received the Holy Ghost as well as we?" Acts.10:46-47. Again careful note must be made of the recorded conversation at Cornelius’s conversion. To begin with not a single word is spoken about "asking" for the Holy Spirit. They were baptised in the Spirit the moment they believed, and then immediately baptised by immersion in water. The watching Jews are described thus: "They of the circumcision which believed were astonished, as many as came with Peter, because that on the Gentiles also was poured out the gift of the Holy Ghost. For they heard them speak with tongues, and magnify God. ," Acts.10:45-46. This was evidence that the middle wall between Jew and Gentile was broken down. The gentile now had access to God and salvation by faith

This is a unique occasion when the Jews concerned had never heard the gospel of the Lord Jesus Christ except that prophesied by John the Baptist. Paul preached the gospel of Christ and they believed and were baptised in the Holy Spirit and spoke in tongues. It is important to see that they did not ask for the baptism of the Holy Spirit, nor did they seek any gift. "And when Paul had laid his hands upon them, the Holy Ghost came on them; and they spake with tongues, (languages) and prophesied." Acts.19:6. The context shows clearly that they were Jews who believed. It further shows that they went into the synagogue, and spoke of the things concerning the Kingdom of God. Anything further than that is purely supposition and speculation.

In verse 20 of that chapter the apostle says act as mature christians. He said, "In the law it is written, With men of other tongues and other lips will I speak unto this people; and yet for all that will they not hear me, saith the Lord. Wherefore tongues are for a sign, not to them that believe, but to them that believe not: but prophesying serveth not for them that believe not, but for them which believe. If therefore the whole church be come together into one place, and all speak with tongues, and there come in those that are unlearned, or unbelievers, will they not say that ye are mad?" 1cor.14:21-23.

Little more need be said, but that strict obedience to the relevant part of this chapter is rarely observed by those who claim that tongues are for today. We repeat that tongues in this chapter is for the unsaved, and not for the christian. It is suggested that the writer’s notes on 1.Corinthians 14 should be read in conjunction with these notes. In those notes in the first few verses of the chapter we see that speaking in tongues is relegated and the important gifts given prominence.

In verse 2 it mentions speaking in a foreign language which was addressed to God as the only One who understood them. It is made abundantly clear that men cannot understand what is spoken unless they know the language. It is then contrasted with the speaking forth the mind of God (this was a time when the scriptures were not complete) to the edification, exhortation, and comfort of the hearer. In verse 5 the speaker in tongues that an interpreter was needed for any profit whatsoever.

Furthermore we have already seen that tongues are for the Jews only which is repeated in verses 21 and 22, and most Jews were in Corinth. In verse 27 and 28 we are told that an interpreter was needed in any case before anyone spoke in tongues. Over and above all, this MIRACLE GIFT HAVE CEASED, but, of course, not miracles which is quite a different matter.

We have seen the major work of the Holy Spirit, and we have seen the fact that the Holy Spirit is given immediately one believes. The baptism of the Spirit again takes place immediately one believes and is saved. The scripture is completely silent about tarrying for the Holy Spirit baptism after Acts 2, and it should be condemned out of hand. We have noted that as the purchased possession we are sealed WITH the Holy Spirit until the day of redemption.

In the Old Testament we saw that God could give and take away the Holy Spirit from His people, but in the church age dispensation the Holy Spirit if a permanent gift. His dwelling place is the body of the believer. Finally we have looked at tongues and we see that it was primarily a sign for unbelieving Jews, and not christians. It not in the scope of these notes to give any more than a very brief outline of the Holy Spirit and His work. The purpose is to enable us to intelligently try the spirits which simply means that we can use the scriptures to judge everything.

Know ye not that ye are the temple of God, and that the Spirit of God dwelleth in you?" 1Cor.3:16. What? know ye not that your body is the temple of the Holy Ghost which is in you, which ye have of God, and ye are not your own?" 1Cor.6:19.

First the verse in 1Cor.3: is speaking of the local assembly, but the second verse above is clear.

Our body is the dwelling place of the Holy Spirit, or rather He has taken up residence in our own mortal bodies. It would appear unfortunate that we, as christians, do not really take this into consideration. In the relevant verses of 1John above the operating power is the indwelling Holy Spirit. That is why we can make spiritual judgements and walk in fellowship with the Father and His Son. This is not directly written in the verses of 1John but, above all, notice what the Holy Spirit does for us. He gives us that close relationship with the Father and His Son which enables us to pray and receive answers. Secondly it allows us to judge what is not of the Spirit but of Satan. "Now the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, that ye may abound in hope, through the power of the Holy Ghost." Rom.15.13.

Most emphatically, speaking in tongues is not for today. It had a very special purpose which it achieved, and finally in about AD 70 it ceased to exist as a gift of the spirit. The speaking of tongues today is spurious and is demon controlled. These demons can influence born again Christians to imitate the gift of speaking in tongues, to the detriment of all concerned both speaker and hearer alike. That Christians do not see this does not change the fact that it is a demon activity today.

In fact every time tongues are spoken in the New Testament it had a twofold purpose specifically directed at the unbelieving Jews. "They have moved me to jealousy with that which is not God; they have provoked me to anger with their vanities: and I will move them to jealousy with those which are not a people; I will provoke them to anger with a foolish nation." Deut.32:21.

"But I say, Did not Israel know? First Moses saith, I will provoke you to jealousy by them that are no people, and by a foolish nation I will anger you." Rom.10:19. "I say then, Have they stumbled that they should fall? God forbid: but rather through their fall salvation is come unto the Gentiles, for to provoke them to jealousy." Rom.11:11

These three verses clearly show that God used the gift of tongues as a witness to the unsaved Jew. Let us notice the Apostle Paul’s words "In the law it is written, With men of other tongues and other lips will I speak unto this people; and yet for all that will they not hear me, saith the Lord.

Wherefore tongues are for a sign, not to them that believe, but to them that believe not." 1Cor.14:21- This should be clearly understood and considered. Our Pentecostal friends are totally unaware of this fact. Again the scriptures are clear that the sign is for the Jews as mentioned above. Now let us look very closely the next three verses. "For with stammering lips and another tongue will he speak to this people. To whom he said, this is the rest wherewith ye may cause the weary to rest; and this is the refreshing: yet they would not hear. But the word of the LORD was unto them precept upon precept, precept upon precept; line upon line, line upon line; here a little, and there a little; that they might go, and fall backward, and be broken, and snared, and taken." Isa.28:11-13,

We notice a similar statement in Mat.13:17 and that is prophesied in Isa.6:9-10. We see this prophesy quoted in Heb.10:7-9. They crucified the Lord because of hardness of their heart. Now we can see some of God’s purpose in using tongues strictly for the Jew only. "Therefore speak I to them in parables: because they seeing see not; and hearing they hear not, neither do they understand." Mat.13:13 "And he said, Go, and tell this people, Hear ye indeed, but understand not; and see ye indeed, but perceive not. Make the heart of this people fat, and make their ears heavy, and shut their eyes; lest they see with their eyes, and hear with their ears, and understand with their heart, and convert, and be healed." Isa.6:9-10. Then said I, Lo, I come (in the volume of the book it is written of me,) to do thy will, O God. Above when he said, Sacrifice and offering and burnt offerings and offering for sin thou wouldest not, neither hadst pleasure therein; which are offered by the law; Then said he, Lo, I come to do thy will, O God. He taketh away the first, that he may establish the second." Heb.10.9-10. Without question tongues are for the unbelieving Jews.

Now we have noted three special reasons for tongues:

1. God says I will provoke the Jew to jealousy. The Jews were disobedient and Christ rejecters.

2. That the Jews would be snared in unbelief, and,

3. Their hearts were hardened

We have seen the major work of the Holy Spirit, and we have seen the fact that the Holy Spirit is given immediately one believes. The baptism of the Spirit again takes place immediately one believes and is saved. The scripture is completely silent about tarrying for the Holy Spirit baptism after Acts 2, and it should be condemned out of hand. We have noted that as the purchased possession we are sealed WITH, not by the Holy Spirit until the day of redemption. In the Old Testament we saw that God could give and take away the Holy Spirit from His people, but in the church age dispensation the Holy Spirit is a permanent gift. His dwelling place is the body of the believer. Finally we have looked at tongues and we see that it was primarily a sign for unbelieving Jews, and not christians. It is not in the scope of these notes to give any more than a very brief outline of the Holy Spirit and His work. The purpose is to enable us to intelligently try the spirits which simply means that we can use the scriptures to judge everything.

Hereby know ye the Spirit of God: Every spirit that ginosko; come to know

confesseth that Jesus Christ homologeo; assent to, agree with

is come in the flesh is of God: erchomai; come

The real sense of the original Greek is, "assents to the fact that Jesus Christ came in flesh" which clears up any misunderstanding about this particular verse.

It is really saying that whoever assents to the fact that Jesus Christ was God manifest in flesh is of God. It is not talking about the historical fact that such a person existed to which history testifies, but to the acknowledgement of the person Himself. We noted above the facts concerning the person of the Lord Jesus Christ which are vitally important.

This is simply stating the opposite of the verse above. Christians should believe and assert that Jesus of Nazareth was God, but demons will not. The demon doctrine, on the other hand, claims that the same Jesus was not God. We suggest that this is the acid test for doctrine of demons. Put simply a statement that, He was a wonderful man and nothing else is demonic. It is only in the epistles of John that we come across the word antichrist, and once again it is misunderstood by many christians. It means against and instead of Christ. "One who, assuming the guise of Christ, opposes Christ" (Westcott), puts it clearly.

The description of the first beast in Rev.13 closely resembles the description of the "man of sin" in 2Thes.2. It is terrible to see church people take the title of "archbishop" which means chief shepherd. The Greek word is Archipoimen, arche = chief, poimen = shepherd. The word bishop did not exist in English until the Greek word "episkopos" epi = over, and skopeo = watch. The chief shepherd is the Lord Himself, and an overseer is a function of the shepherd. To call oneself a chief overseer is a subtle way of taking the Lord’s rightful place. Even a superficial look at the world of christendom alone shows that those who take the place of the Lord either openly or covertly are numerous indeed; even in the assembly of God’s people, Acts.20:28.

Ye are of God, little children, and have overcome them: nikao; overcome

The position of the spiritual christian is that they have all the power of God dwelling within them, and that power is infinite. This has to be realised by the power of the Holy Spirit convincing the believer that this is the true position and that power protects and guides him. Those who are thus convinced have no fear of the unseen spirit world knowing full well that they are over it all. No demon can harm, evil doctrine can not be recognised, and the will and the leading of the Holy Spirit is all that is required. Once again, to be spiritual really means to be obedient to the Word of God.

This particular verse is addressed to every child of God, and not to particular classes of believers as we have previously seen in this epistle. The false prophets are beaten. Above all, however, we had nothing to do with the victory over these peddlers of evil. We have no power, we have no wisdom, we are destitute and are incapable of overcoming anything. It is wholly and solely because God in Christ dwells within us. Again we are clearly told that we must walk in the light as He is in the light to be overcomers. To walk in darkness immediately puts us in the position of carnal weakness and we are easy victims of the more powerful demon, and caught in Satan’s trap.

It is hard for christians to realise that the whole world and all its inhabitants are totally under the control of Satan. Each unsaved person falsely believes that they their own master and they can do what they like. So they can to a certain extent, but never outside the control and of the spirit of the god of this world. And each unsaved person is s slave. "And we know that we are of God, and the whole world lieth in wickedness" 1John.5.19. The last three words of this verse clearly means that the whole world is totally in subjection to, and controlled by Satan. "Wherein in time past ye walked according to the course of this world, according to the prince of the power of the air, the spirit that now worketh in the children of disobedience:" Eph.2:2. In this verse the God of all truth plainly states that our life, and daily conduct was according to the world’s principles laid down by Satan. It is that spirit which controls all unsaved.

"In whom the god of this world hath blinded the minds of them which believe not, lest the light of the glorious gospel of Christ, who is the image of God, should shine unto them." 2Cor.4:4 To further press home the point the verse above says that the controller of the whole world has blinded every soul born into this world and they are unable to ever find the truth without the intervention of God. Of the Father it is written, "All that the Father giveth me shall come to me; and him that cometh to me I will in no wise cast out." John.6:37". Truly we were hopeless, helpless, and bound for a lost eternity without the help of God Himself.

We have seen that the whole world lieth (is controlled by) the wicked one, and we have also noted that we are not to love the world. The world is that thing which Satan controlled after the fall. It is that thing which unconverted men love and are totally committed to. Although it is powerfully attractive to the natural man, it is also something which the spiritual man sees as being totally opposed to the Saviour God

The world crucified the Lord because they "hated Him without a cause". This simply means that their hatred was unrighteous and unjustified. The position really is that His very Spirit and presence convicts that person of their sin. Being convicted of sin there are two courses of action:

1. turn to the light and ask for forgiveness, or

2. turn from the light and hate the lover of souls.

Their hatred is unjustified as we read:

"And this is the condemnation, that light is come into the world, and men loved darkness rather than light, because their deeds were evil. For every one that doeth evil hateth the light, neither cometh to the light, lest his deeds should be reproved. But he that doeth truth cometh to the light, that his deeds may be made manifest, that they are wrought in God." John.3:10-21

The Lord could say "I am the light of the world", but we find the natural man loves darkness, and hates being reproved. He loves his sin. There must be a conversion before the natural man changes. He is led by the Holy Spirit towards the light, he acknowledges his sin, and then learns that the Lord gave his life for him. It is easily seen that to hate He who loved with an infinite love is evil and totally unjustified. Once coming to the light and being converted we love the light.

This led the apostle Paul to write, "But God forbid that I should glory, save in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, by whom the world is crucified unto me, and I unto the world." Gal 6:14. Surely we must see that all that comes out of the world is directed by Satan and breathes his evil spirit. It is totally opposed to Him and is determined to take His place and glorify fallen man. Furthermore when the world speaks through these kinds of men the world listens.

It would appear from this verse that the apostle knew his function in the economy of God. He was revealing the mind of God, but he may not have known that his gospel and epistle would be part of the written word of God. The important thing to notice is that he was aware that whoever was born again would recognise and realise that what he wrote was in fact the Word of God.

It seems that the apostle also knew he was writing the word of God and he writes stating that fact which is of utmost importance for there are many who would say that the scriptures do not claim to come from God. As the scriptures say "This is the third time I am coming to you. In the mouth of two or three witnesses shall every word be established." 2Co.13:1 "At the mouth of two witnesses, or three witnesses, shall he that is worthy of death be put to death; but at the mouth of one witness he shall not be put to death." Deut.17:6 "It is also written in your law, that the testimony of two men is true." John.8:17. In support of the verse above we also read "Which things also we speak, not in the words which man's wisdom teacheth, but which the Holy Ghost teacheth; comparing spiritual things with spiritual." 1Cor 2:13.

Here the apostle is saying that he clearly understood, that what he spoke, and the words that he wrote were Holy Spirit inspired.

"And that from a child thou hast known the holy scriptures, which are able to make thee wise unto salvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus." All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness:" 2Tim.3:15-16. Here we have two more scriptures which testify to the fact that all scripture is given by inspiration of God and the apostles were aware of what they writing. Without doubt multitudes of words can be used to describe worldliness and spirituality given by the Holy Spirit, but to sum it all up the "spirit of truth" is always according to the scriptures.

Without doubt multitudes of words can be used to describe worldliness, and spirituality that is given by the Holy Spirit, but to sum it up the "spirit of truth" is always according to the scriptures. It is ours as we walk in fellowship with the Father and His Son. The spirit of error comes from our human brain. It does not come from the scriptures and does not coincide with it, but rather opposes it. To repeat, nothing that comes from our intellect, intelligence, intuition, so called goodness or from any other human origin is spiritual and suitable to God. The fact is that human nature is totally corrupt in the judgement of God, and that is final.

Above all we must remember that the scriptures never contradict themselves. Scripture supports scripture, and where we think we have a contradiction then our interpretation is wrong. The apostles knew they were writing the Word of God. It is up to us to be assured by the Holy Spirit that we carefully take note of what is written. It is the only communication from the true God, His Word. "And we know that we are of God, and the whole world lieth in wickedness." 1John.5:19.

What has been said would seem to be irrefutable because we have experienced both the truth and power of His Word. "For the word of God is quick, and powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart." Heb.4:12. Not only have we been convicted by His word, but also we have seen others similarly convicted, both the saved and unsaved

Now note these words spoken by the Lord " And if any man hear my words, and believe not, I judge him not: for I came not to judge the world, but to save the world. He that rejecteth me, and receiveth not my words, hath one that judgeth him: the word that I have spoken, the same shall judge him in the last day." John.12:47-48. Sufficient proof has been given to show us the truth of God’s Word. Not only that, but also numerous prophesies which have been fulfilled to the letter. We may judge the Word anyway we wish to, but in the final analysis, the Word of God is the final judge of all. Yet for all that men love darkness rather than light. There was a falling away early in the apostle’s days, and we now live in almost total apostasy in these last days.

In view of these conditions in the last days the apostle tells Timothy: "But continue thou in the things which thou hast learned and hast been assured of, knowing of whom thou hast learned them; And that from a child thou hast known the holy scriptures, which are able to make thee wise unto salvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus. All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: That the man of God may be perfect, throughly furnished unto all good works." 2Tim.3:14-17. Again what could be clearer? Timothy would have been reminded by Paul: "And they continued steadfastly in the apostles' doctrine and fellowship, and in breaking of bread, and in prayers." Acts.2:42. Furthermore he is reminded of his past experience in the scriptures and the effect it had upon him. Again he leaves us with absolute certainty "all scripture is given by inspiration of God," and further it completely fits the man of God for every good work.

By experience we have learned "For the word of God is quick, and powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart." Heb.4:12. We have also seen it change lives; we have known the fellowship of the Father and His Son when we walk in His light. The Lord Himself powerfully puts the written Word before the gainsaying Jews. " Do not think that I will accuse you to the Father: there is one that accuseth you, even Moses, in whom ye trust. For had ye believed Moses, ye would have believed me: for he wrote of me. But if ye believe not his writings, how shall ye believe my words?" John.5:45-47.

We hear some saying that they are seeking the truth, but they are no more than blind wanderers in the dark. That is easily seen in the following verses. "Then spake Jesus again unto them, saying, I am the light of the world: he that followeth me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life." John.8:12. "As long as I am in the world, I am the light of the world." John.9:5. We can say one thing for certain, without light we will find nothing but darkness. Let us carefully note, "Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me". John.14:6. That should be the end of the matter if one is seeking truth, light, or any other real thing.

There is only one source, the Lord Jesus Christ, and He can only be found through the scriptures. Overall then, the born again spiritual christian has fellowship with the Father and His Son Jesus Christ. In addition, a spiritual christian has the ability to discriminate between the Spirit of truth and the spirit of evil. He that is not born again has no contact with God whatsoever

The very first thing this verse tells us is that "love is of God". That is vitally important. There are some who wrongly believe that there is "agape" love in man. The word of God makes that perfectly clear that there is not! As we have seen through these notes that the love of God infinitely transcends anything the human brain could devise. From corrupt human nature that loves is impossible. Now it does not matter what we may think about human love it is infinitely lower than the love of God. They are two entirely and totally different things.

Man’s love can be defined as, "For scarcely for a righteous man will one die: yet peradventure for a good man some would even dare to die." Rom.5:7. We are all perfectly well aware of what men think of despicable enemies. They certainly would not give their life for an enemy. What then of God’s love: "But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us." Rom.5:8.

Let there be no confusion. It may seem that on rare occasions "agape" may exist in a certain individual. This may appear to be so, but if we look closely it can only be so when there would have been Holy Spirit influence behind forcing it. It is not in man. In verse 7 above we return to the vitally important subject of "love of the brethren". From verse 1 to this point it has been a parenthesis, but an important one. Its importance lies in the fact that it allows the christian to tell the difference between truth and lies. In a sense love and truth wear a badge. It is an attitude which breathes out the love of God. It is a character which is like that of the Lord Jesus Christ. False spirits are the very opposite. Now we return to that which is of the utmost importance to the apostle and every christian, our character. Now our character is our testimony. What we may say is only a very small part of it.

One must keep in mind that people read us without knowing us. Our attitude to others is noted first by our deportment, by our mannerisms, and physical attitude to others. At this stage we have not spoken a word, and yet we have been evaluated.

We may have turned our back on someone, given a surly look, or avoided someone, all of which may have been seen and mentally noted. Again we may have exhibited the personality of the Lord and others noted it. The foregoing are only a few of the things people notice about us before we ever speak to them. We are or should be fully aware that what we say is very important because if it contradicts our deportment then we may be labeled a hypocrite. In other words either unconsciously or consciously we exhibit our character, and eventually our words will match our attitude and this is our testimony to the world. We either exhibit the "agape" love of God in proportion to our fellowship with the Father and His Son, or we will exhibit the sin of the flesh

What is the love of God? Let us go over it once again and note the Father’s love. "For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life." John.3:16. He that spared not his own Son, but delivered him up for us all," Rom.8:32. Just a few moments of reflection shows us infinite love for that which was totally corrupt. In fact an infinite love quite outside human understanding.

The Father demonstrated His love by giving His Son, and the Son demonstrated it by giving His life. "Saying, Father, if thou be willing, remove this cup from me: nevertheless not my will, but thine, be done. And there appeared an angel unto him from heaven, strengthening him. And being in an agony he prayed more earnestly: and his sweat was as it were great drops of blood falling down to the ground." Luke.22:42-44. He knew what was before Him nevertheless He went to Golgotha and there, "And when Jesus had cried with a loud voice, he said, Father, into thy hands I commend my spirit: and having said thus, he gave up the ghost." Luke 23:46. All that is far beyond human nature or understanding.

This is a lighthouse warning light. It should shine out in the darkness of the worldly night to warn wayward christians. We have seen something of love, and if we are not exhibiting the love of God we simply DO NOT KNOW GOD. It does not mean that we may not be saved, but it surely means that we are not walking in the light of the fellowship of the Father and His Son. What is our attitude to others? Are we critical, judgmental, has our love turned to the things of this world? If so then we are in darkness and do not have a true knowledge of God.

From this verse be absolutely assured that if we are in darkness we do not exhibit the love of God, but rather that of the fallen nature which is controlled by Satan. The message to us then is, "Wherefore he saith, Awake thou that sleepest, and arise from the dead, and Christ shall give thee light." Eph.5:14. The call goes out to all such and the Spirit of God calls out for us to heed. If we see the symptoms of the flesh then arise from the dead, and receive the light of God from His Word.

There may be some christians who would ask, "How did God manifest His love to us?" The christian who would ask such a question has never considered the cost to the Father. IN the first place the Father and His Son shared their glory in heaven. Their closeness is far beyond our reasoning. In response He, the Son, offered to leave heaven’s glory and came to this world specifically and definitely for the Father. "Also I heard the voice of the Lord, saying, Whom shall I send, and who will go for us? Then said I, here am I: send me." Isa.6.8. This certainly points back to the scene to the scene in heaven.

Now we begin to see the cost to the Father. There must be a sacrifice for sin, and it must be His Son. "For such an high priest became us, who is holy, harmless, undefiled, separate from sinners, and made higher than the heavens;" Heb.7:26.

"And ye know that he was manifested to take away our sins; and in him is no sin." 1John.3:5. We may ask, "How was He to come?" "And being found in fashion as a man, he humbled himself, and became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross." Php.2:8. In response to the Son’s "Here am I send me" the Father sent Him into this world of sin and misery

Could we imagine sending our own son to a place where he would be cruelly tortured and killed by people who hated him, and that for their benefit? No we could not! Yet our heavenly Father sent His own Son to pay the penalty for our sin, death! He died a terrible death on the cross "Who his own self bare our sins in his own body on the tree." 1Peter.2:24. At the same time "But this cometh to pass, that the word might be fulfilled that is written in their law, they hated me without a cause." John 15:25.

Even though human hatred was so vile as to hate Him without a cause we read, "How much more shall the blood of Christ, who through the eternal Spirit offered himself without spot to God, purge your conscience from dead works to serve the living God?""Heb.9:14. He offered Himself to God knowing that He could say "I have glorified thee on the earth: I have finished the work which thou gavest me to do". John.17:4. "For if, when we were enemies, we were reconciled to God by the death of his Son, much more, being reconciled, we shall be saved by his life." Rom.5:10. By His death we are brought back to the Father. The cross (looked at in this light) manifests the infinite love of God to us. He gave His Son for us. Are we grateful?

This verse is absolute fact. "Not that we loved God". In reality in our unsaved state all we considered was ourselves, and how things affected us. Furthermore to be convicted of sin was most distasteful, we hated it. In fact if we look at ourselves in the unsaved state we hated being corrected at all. We also had to be trained to say sorry to others, and if we were not trained we were never sorry for any harm we did to others. Once again we have repeated for us the fact that love came from God to us by way of His Son.

It is of paramount importance that we understand what the word propitiation means. In the English language, it is, "the gift or act meant to appease, gain the tolerance of, or forgiveness or favour of", in this case the forgiveness of God. Now let us look closely at this. We may ask:

1. Who gave the gift? The answer is God did.

2. What did God give? His Son.

3. How did His Son do this? By taking away our sin which separated us from God,

4. How did He take away our sin? By paying the penalty in full.

5. What was the price paid to take our sin away? His life! Proved by the shedding of His blood.

Sin separated man from God, "But your iniquities have separated between you and your God, and your sins have hid his face from you, that he will not hear." Isa.59:2. That is not all, "And you hath he quickened, who were dead in trespasses and sins;" Eph.2:1. We have been placed in the position of death that is eternal separation from God. Praise God, the Lord Jesus Christ has paid the penalty in full, and we are saved by believing it. That is, He loved us with an everlasting love, and He awaits our gratitude. Before leaving this verse we can consider again the Father’s feelings about the gift of His Son. He saw His Son’s suffering yet, "He that spared not his own Son, but delivered him up for us all " Rom.8:32. This should speak volumes to us. He knew that His Son was going to suffer, and that this suffering was beyond imagination. "For Christ also hath once suffered for sins, the just for the unjust, that he might bring us to God, being put to death in the flesh, but quickened by the Spirit:" 1Peter.3:18.

The Lord would suffer abuse from the very ones He was going to save from the penalty of their sin: "And they that passed by railed on him, wagging their heads, and saying, Ah, thou that destroyest the temple, and buildest it in three days, Save thyself, and come down from the cross. Likewise also the chief priests mocking said among themselves with the scribes, He saved others; himself he cannot save. Let Christ the King of Israel descend now from the cross, that we may see and believe. And they that were crucified with him reviled him." Mark.15:29-32. He was treated with the utmost contempt. Yes, they certainly hated Him without a cause, yet He gave His life for these same people.

We have seen something of that previously in these notes, but now let us look at another way He suffered and in doing so we can only look on it in amazement.

From the cross He cried, "My God, my God, why hast thou forsaken me? why art thou so far from helping me, and from the words of my roaring?" Psa 22:1. Here in the Psalms we have the prophetic statement made by the Lord on the cross, and we should have some understanding of it. In the next verse we have recorded the actual cry of the Lord whilst on the cross, "And about the ninth hour Jesus cried with a loud voice, saying, Eli, Eli, lama sabachthani? that is to say, My God, my God, why hast thou forsaken me?. Mat.27:46. We must ask ourselves why such a cry? Were not the Father and the Son as one throughout eternity? Yes they were!

Now let us look at why He cried in agony. "For he hath made him to be sin for us, who knew no sin; that we might be made the righteousness of God in him." 2Cor.5:21. Here on the cross, as the Father views the scene He sees our sin laid upon Him. He has taken our place " Who his own self bare our sins in his own body on the tree, that we, being dead to sins, should live unto righteousness: by whose stripes ye were healed." 1Peter.2:24. It was an agony which we can never fully comprehend. As mentioned above the Father views the scene, and it is at this point that He turned away from His Son. It was because He became sin for us that "And when the sixth hour was come, there was darkness over the whole land until the ninth hour." Mark.15:34. Indeed, the Holy Father turned away from He who bore our sin in His own body on the tree. Separation from God is part of sin’s penalty.

In effect the Lord takes our position. He is willing to pay the penalty for us. It is absolutely necessary to see that He must have no sin of His own otherwise He will have to pay that penalty which is death. Therefore being perfect in every respect He can righteously take our place and punishment. However in doing so the Lord lost that which he had throughout all eternity, the Father‘s fellowship. Now it is this position that God looks on the substitute and sees the sin, the thing which He hates.

If then He takes our place it can be said that He became sin for us. Please be careful; He had no sin of His own, but merely took our place. He takes the place of the sinner, without sin, and pays the penalty in full. "The next day John seeth Jesus coming unto him, and saith, Behold the Lamb of God, which taketh away the sin of the world." John.1:29. We have already noted that God is of purer eyes to behold sin, and in that three hours of darkness the Lord took our place of separation from God as "The sorrows of death compassed me, and the pains of hell gat hold upon me: I found trouble and sorrow." Ps 116:3. "For Christ also hath once suffered for sins, the just for the unjust, that he might bring us to God, being put to death in the flesh, but quickened by the Spirit:: 1Peter.3:18. Let us also firmly fix in our mind that the physical suffering was more than man could bear. The suffering of the absence of the Father means that His Father’s face is turned away from Him and, "The sorrows of death compassed me, and the pains of hell gat hold upon me: I found trouble and sorrow." Psa.116:3. It is evil to think that the Lord Jesus Christ became a sinner. Yes that is Satanic in origin. All He did was to take our place.

Like the rich man in Luke 16 he had lost, "Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and cometh down from the Father of lights, with whom is no variableness, neither shadow of turning." James.1:17. That man was in torments. He suffered for sin. Above all remember, "How much more shall the blood of Christ, who through the eternal Spirit offered himself without spot to God, purge your conscience from dead works to serve the living God?" Heb.9:14. He loved the Father unto that death.

It must also be noted that He, "taketh away the sin of the world". Does that mean that everyone is saved from the penalty of sin? Most emphatically not! Salvation is for those who see, and accept the fact that Christ died for our sins. That is, He paid their penalty in full. Now if we do not believe that or think that we can gain eternal life by our own efforts, we are saying that God murdered His own Son as there was no reason to do so. One may ask, why is not everyone saved by that one act? Simply because it is conditional salvation. The simple condition is that, by faith, we thank God for His gift. Not to do so is demonic indeed. Look at the cost to the Father, and to His Son. Can we then say, as many do, I don’t care! If so you can look forward to the wrath of God. Salvation is simple gratitude for something done for us at infinite cost. The Lord Jesus Christ satisfied all the claims against us as guilty sinners. The penalty has been paid in full.

He offered Himself unto God without spot, the sinless one took our place and He could truly say, "I have glorified thee on the earth: I have finished the work which thou gavest me to do." John.17:4. Father, in feeble gratitude, we thank thee that He has revealed thee to us.

We have been looking at infinite love for us. We have looked at the infinite cost to both the Father and His Son. If we are not overwhelmed by this then we should pray that the indwelling Holy Spirit will take the Word of God and bring that point home to our hearts in power. For that is the core, heart, and the power to be able to comprehend, and certainly the desire to understand and follow verse 11.

There needs to be an understanding of the plain English of this verse in the first place.

If: On the condition or supposition that

so: an adverb; to such a degree

"If God so loved us" is presented as a statement which should be tested. Did God love us to such a degree? We could ask what degree? The foregoing notes clearly describe, in the most feeble and inadequate way, infinite love beyond human measure. Having then proved the statement the last phrase in the verse tells us what the resultant effect of the foregoing, "if God so loved us".

Ought: Auxiliary verb; expresses "duty, rightness" in this case

Now as we have tested the correctness of the first part of the sentence we are now placed under a right duty to comply with the "we ought also to love one another".

In order to clear up what may seem to be a mystery let us note some of the things that God did for at salvation.

1. "Know ye not, that so many of us as were baptised into Jesus Christ were baptised into his death? therefore we are buried with him by baptism into death: that like as Christ was raised up from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life". Rom.6.3-4.

2. "Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold all things are become new." 2Cor.5:17. "For in Christ Jesus neither circumcision availeth any thing, nor uncircumcision, but a new creature." Gal.6:15. At salvation we are an entirely new creation.

3. "For I know that in me (that is, in my flesh,) dwelleth no good thin." Rom.7:18. The old nature is totally corrupt, and it can not be improved.

The first thing that happens in salvation is that the old nature, so far as God is concerned, has ceased to exist. In His judgement the old nature has been crucified with Christ, and taken down into the grave. Judicially the old nature, what we were in the flesh, has been judged, found guilty, and buried.

Although the old nature is condemned and buried from God’s point of view we still have it with us until the rapture. This simply means that the christian has two choices:

1. We can choose to walk in the flesh;

"Now the works of the flesh are manifest, which are these; Adultery, fornication, uncleanness, lasciviousness, Idolatry, witchcraft, hatred, variance, emulations, wrath, strife, seditions, heresies, 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." Gal.5:19-21.

2. Or "This I say then, Walk in the Spirit, and ye shall not fulfil the lust of the flesh." Gal.5:16.

These are our two choices. So then, to please God, we should walk in the Spirit. We are told that the newly created life is the very life of the Lord Himself.

"I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me: and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave himself for me." Gal.2:20. There we have the secret of all spiritual power. Not only is the life of Christ ours, but also we are indwelt by the Holy Spirit Himself. "What? know ye not that your body is the temple of the Holy Ghost which is in you, which ye have of God, and ye are not your own?" 1Cor.6:19.

Again we must positively note, "This I say then, Walk in the Spirit, and ye shall not fulfil the lust of the flesh." Gal.5:16. "For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, they are the sons of God." Rom.8:14. "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:" 1Peter.1:22. To walk then is so simple that it is amazing that many christians do not understand what is required. It is the implicit obedience to the Word of God. Let us note what it does. First it works within us and we read, "And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God." Rom.12:2. There is no secret to walking in the Spirit as we read the words of the Lord, "He that hath my commandments, and keepeth them, he it is that loveth me: and he that loveth me shall be loved of my Father, and I will love him, and will manifest myself to him. Jesus answered and said unto him, If a man love me, he will keep my words: and my Father will love him, and we will come unto him, and make our abode with him." John.14.21&23. There is the answer, and it is the only way we can love the brethren

No man hath seen God at any time. If we love one another, God dwelleth meno; continue

in us; and his love is perfected in us. telieoo; completed

It is true that no man hath seen God at any time for God is a Spirit, and in addition we can not approach Him as mere mortals. We are also reminded that "And he said, Thou canst not see my face: for there shall no man see me, and live.’ Ex 33:20. We might also say that every unsaved human being would have a different idea of what God is like, and if each were asked how should the invisible God reveal Himself to mankind we would probably get a multitude of answers. It is with infinite knowledge and grace God has revealed Himself.

The fact is that now He has gone back to the heavenly places "Who being the brightness of his glory, and the express image of his person, and upholding all things by the word of his power, when he had by himself purged our sins, sat down on the right hand of the Majesty on high;" Heb 1:3. The Word of God only reveals God to those who are born again. It can lead the unbeliever to the Lord Jesus Christ as their saviour, but it does not reveal the Father to the unsaved. In the second part of verse 12 we are told that those who love one another have God dwelling in them. This should be noted as it bears greatly on our testimony. We see this in the following scriptures.

Now let us see what the Lord said about Himself. "Then spake Jesus again unto them, saying, I am the light of the world: he that followeth me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life." John.8:12. and again "As long as I am in the world, I am the light of the world." John.9:5. This light stood out in the darkness and it led to the true light being given which was the knowledge of the forgiveness of sin, a knowledge of God, and adoption into the family of God all through the blood of Christ

Ye are the light of the world. A city that is set on an hill cannot be hid." Mat.5:14. This the Lord said in speaking of His own which is very interesting as He is telling them they are somewhat like Him. They were in fact a light to the world. This, of course, was provided that they themselves were walking in the light. It means that the believer who is walking in the light and in fellowship with the Father and His Son Jesus Christ would exhibit some of the character of the Lord. "Ye are our epistle written in our hearts, known and read of all men:" 2Cor.3:2. This the apostle Paul could say about his converts, and indeed this should be the witness of every believer as he radiates the personality of the Lord.

In the above paragraphs we have seen that man can not find God. That is just not possible. In fact the very opposite is the case. God found man. He found him in his desperate need and depravity. The Lord came down from the heights of glory and effected the reconciliation between God and man through His own blood. We also discovered that, with the Holy Spirit dwelling within all believers, we are able to love our brethren. This is then a witness, or light to the lost world.

If we love one another, God dwelleth in us, and his love is perfected in us". If we love one another God abides in us. This is the principle for it is only when God abides in us that we can love our brethren. It is the visible proof of that abiding as virtually nothing else is. People can not see our obedience to the commandments of the Lord, but they can certainly see our love for the brethren, and furthermore the love of God is completed in us. This is the true spirit of the Lord.

Does this mean that if I love the brethren I will be infallible? Under no circumstances! We must walk in obedience to the Word of God, not in the power of self effort, but rather in the power of the indwelling Spirit. We can not make an effort to love our brethren that is plainly an effort of the flesh and will not last. In addition it will be seen to be what it is, and end in failure. Once again it is only as we read and muse over the work and person of the Lord Jesus Christ as revealed in His Word that we will fulfill the condition of loving.

The flesh is put aside because we have been taken up by the Lord, and as we are taken up with the Lord progressively the old nature decreases and the nature of the Lord within us increases. The verse above is the principle, we say again, and His love is progressively shown outwardly to be in us. These thoughts lead us to verse 13.

From the very first time at salvation there is a knowledge that we have been reconciled to God through the work on the cross. Our hearts are powerfully drawn to the person who loved us and gave Himself for us. All the barriers are broken down. We know that we have a personal relationship with both the Father and our loving Saviour. How does this occur? We have been given the Holy Spirit to dwell within. This gives an inner feeling which we did not manufacture by way of excitement, as some deluded ones do, but it is spontaneous. There are virtually no external signs showing what is going on within the new believer. It is not even expected, but when the Holy Spirit comes in at salvation we can really say "I see!" We do not need anyone to tell us how to feel or what to seek for, it is automatic upon believing.

There are two aspects to this verse in that the apostle actually with his own eyes beheld the Son and believed His words. He saw the crucifixion and above all the Lord in resurrection. It is with this in mind that John wrote "That which was from the beginning, which we have heard, which we have seen with our eyes, which we have looked upon, and our hands have handled, of the Word of life; (For the life was manifested, and we have seen it, and bear witness, and shew unto you that eternal life, which was with the Father, and was manifested unto us;): 1John.1:1. His testifying sprang from having heard and seen. He also makes note of the fact that he had attentively studied and viewed with admiration the person of the Lord Jesus Christ both in verse 14, and the first verse of the epistle.

In considering his words we would imagine that the Lord’s appearance after the resurrection, and also the ascension would be most memorable events giving comfort, and which would add power to the actual words of the Lord. For us today we have the Word of God and the indwelling Spirit of God therefore we love these words, "Jesus saith unto him, Thomas, because thou hast seen me, thou hast believed: blessed are they that have not seen, and yet have believed. And many other signs truly did Jesus in the presence of his disciples, which are not written in this book: But these are written, that ye might believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God; and that believing ye might have life through his name." John.20.29-31. The Holy Spirit has taken the Word of God and applied it in power to our hearts, and we can say without a doubt that the Lord Jesus Christ is the Saviour of the world.

To confess means that the confessor gives assent to, declares, and admits that the Lord Jesus Christ is who He said He was. The Son of God, that is the Son is God; "For there is one God, and one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus;" 1Tim.2:5. "I and my Father are one." John.10:30. What should be noted is that he is talking about a fact, not a supposition, nor a theory, but a statement made in the absolute assured knowledge that Jesus is the Christ, and we read. "Whosoever believeth that Jesus is the Christ is born of God: and every one that loveth him that begat loveth him also that is begotten of him." 1John.5:1. Now we should note another scripture which compares the real with the false. "For many deceivers are entered into the world, who confess not that Jesus Christ is come in the flesh. This is a deceiver and an antichrist." 2John.1:7. This sincere confession above in verse 15 is powered by the indwelling Holy Spirit and is evidence that the confessor is born again. It is also evidence that the public confessor is walking in the light as He is in the light, and in fellowship with the Father and Son.

We have already seen in the notes above what infinite love God has for us, but the interesting thing is the repetition. This stresses its utmost importance. In fact one would suggest that this aspect of the christian life is the central power plant of the whole spiritual life in Christ. In this verse it is placed in divine order;

1. First we know and understand the infinite love of God for us

2. Next we see that the vital attitude towards us of the Holy righteous God is "agape" love

3. If our relationship is right with God His love radiates from us and our relationship with Him is right.

As the student reads this epistle the importance of a right relationship with God is brought to his mind in power. Now that right relationship is seen by all in this love of God radiating out from that believer. As we read and meditate on His Word our desire to draw closer to Him should ever increase. As this desire increases we become ever more careful not to grieve the indwelling Holy Spirit by disobedience to His Word. Furthermore we are more and more conscious of the leadings of the Spirit within. We are startled by the warnings, and comforted by the fellowship with the Father and His Son.

Herein is our love made perfect, that we may have boldness parrhesia; freedom in speaking

in the day of judgement: because as he is, so are we in this world. krisis; process of judging

This is a very important verse, no doubt all scripture is important, but each in its own way, as we are given assurance about our secure future in the Lord. It is an important verse for anyone who does not know and believe that at salvation we are given eternal life, and that unconditionally. Let us look at one of the things given to us when we are saved. "Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that heareth my word, and believeth on him that sent me, hath everlasting life, and shall not come into condemnation; but is passed from death unto life." John.5:24.

These are the Lord’s words. Note what He gives us who believe:

1. We have everlasting life

2. We have passed from death unto life.

If we have learnt nothing but the fact that Christ paid the penalty of our sins in full, we have learnt a vital truth. One must be aware of the position that if I believe I can be judged for my sins again it means that I think God did not do the job properly in the first place and that He is a deliberate liar. Now that would be the vilest blasphemy imaginable. We have seen the cost of the Father giving His Son and we have seen the cost to the Son, and yet one might say, that does not count. God forbid. We shall never be judged for our sins. Christ died for them.

If we need further confirmation then the scriptures never stand alone. Let us note; "And as it is appointed unto men once to die, but after this the judgement: So Christ was once offered to bear the sins of many; and unto them that look for him shall he appear the second time without sin unto salvation." Heb.9:27-28. The christian will never be associated with sin again. They are buried and, "As far as the east is from the west, so far hath he removed our transgressions from us." Psa.103:12.

This is not a judgement for sin, but it is however, a judgement for services. In the above passage we see the Apostle longing to be with the Lord. We not only see tat, but we also see the apostle desiring to please the Lord in His service. It is at this point that we are taken back to verse 17 above. Here we read that we have freedom to speak before Him. The day of judement has nothing for us to fear. It is vital to notice that the context has to do with the fear of judgement of sins.

There are three main Greek words for fear; phobos, meaning fear, awe or terror; eulabeia which is reverential fear; and deilia, which is fearfulness. Both phobos and delia are used when describing the relationship between God and the believer. Just because the world has taught children to disobey and denigrate their parents rather than hold them is awe respect, and obedience the christian is not to follow suit with his spiritual Father. "God is greatly to be feared in the assembly of the saints, and to be had in reverence of all them that are about him." Psa.89.7 "Then Paul stood up, and beckoning with his hand said, Men of Israel, and ye that fear God, give audience." Acts.13:16 ‘Honour all men. Love the brotherhood. Fear God. Honour the king.’ 1Peter.2:17. Each of these words means terror or reverential fear.

It is wrong to suggest from this verse that the christian should have no fear of God at all. That would mean contempt. However just one moments thought, by any sane person, to approach the Almighty God, who is the Creator, Governor, and Preserver of the universe, and is also immutable, omniscient, and omnipresent would be an awesome thing. It is not a thing to be taken lightly. Rather the spiritual christian recognises that the highest respect is due to Him.

He will most certainly have a great fear of displeasing Him. As shown above the simple contemplation of whom and what God is creates in us great reverential fear and awe. The worldly mind is so twisted and warped that it cannot understand that love and reverential fear can exist side by side. Also it is unable to understand that love came to us from such an Almighty person.

It is with pride that we can see the character of God, and call him Father. The word pride is used, but that may not properly express the feeling. Perhaps the word should be love. In us is the feeling that we want to proclaim Him to the World, but at the same time we are brought down in gratitude for all that He has done for us.

Similarly we would present the Lord Jesus Christ to the world as our Saviour who loved us and gave Himself for us. Can we wonder then that the apostle Paul said, "And he trembling and astonished said, Lord, what wilt thou have me to do? And the Lord said unto him, Arise, and go into the city, and it shall be told thee what thou must do." Acts.9:6.

It is the scene on the cross that stays in the mind. We see Him hanging on the cross for us, and as we do so we are absolutely convinced that there is no judgement for us. The thing about fear now is that we do not offend our God and Father. He is a perfect Father and as such we should take particular note of the following passage

And ye have forgotten the exhortation which speaketh unto you as unto children, My son, despise not thou the chastening of the Lord, nor faint when thou art rebuked of him: For whom the Lord loveth he chasteneth, and scourgeth every son whom he receiveth. If ye endure chastening, God dealeth with you as with sons; for what son is he whom the father chasteneth not? But if ye be without chastisement, whereof all are partakers, then are ye illegitimate, and not sons. Furthermore we have had fathers of our flesh which corrected us, and we gave them reverence: shall we not much rather be in subjection unto the Father of spirits, and live? Heb.12:5-9

Once again, in the verses above, we are looking at the perfect Father and His relationship with His child. Please note well and understand the relationship between the Father and the child is perfect, and should give us a pattern for our behaviour in this life. Note these points:

1. Do not despise (regard lightly) chastening.

2. Chastening is the Father’s child training by way of reproof.

3. Scourging is a flogging by a whip. Our heavenly Father’s floggings are indeed painful!

4. If there is no chastisement then there is no sonship.

5. Note the difference between our natural father and our heavenly Father in the verses below.

"For they verily for a few days chastened us after their own pleasure; but he for our profit, that we might be partakers of his holiness. Now no chastening for the present seemeth to be joyous, but grievous: nevertheless afterward it yieldeth the peaceable fruit of righteousness unto them which are exercised thereby." Heb.12:10-11. These verses are simply saying that our natural fathers trained us in whatever way that suited them and their purpose. On the other hand our heavenly Father trains us for our profit. What an incredible difference. We were trained in whatever way our natural father wished whether it be for our good or not, but our heavenly Father has a purpose. That purpose is that we should be like Him, and have a character like His.

"But when we are judged, we are chastened of the Lord, that we should not be condemned with the world." 1Cor.11:32. There is no fear of judgement whatsoever: "Then we which are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds, to meet the Lord in the air: and so shall we ever be with the Lord. Wherefore comfort one another with these words." 1Thes.4:17-18

There is no doubt that the coming judgement for the unsaved at the Great White Throne and the inevitability of eternity in the lake of fire would be a fearful thing. Let us note some of the Word of God; "But a certain fearful looking for of judgement and fiery indignation, which shall devour the adversaries". Heb.10:27. "It is a fearful thing to fall into the hands of the living God." Heb.10:31. The believer is well aware of this whereas the unbeliever may not even care. The point of verse 18 above is, howeve