Allowing The Kingdom Its Own Work

All the commands that we find in the New Testament are in reality the declaration of Jesus' life upon those whom the Father has drawn to Him. "It is no longer I who lives, but Christ who lives in me" is our present reality once we receive the Holy Spirit, but it will take time before the mind becomes renewed to accept this. What is commonly understood as sanctification is simply the removing of the blinders of our current understanding by the Holy Spirit. While we may perceive the saints growing in the grace and knowledge of Jesus, the truth is that man decreases and Christ increases. "The life I now live in the flesh, I live by fatih..." No flesh will glory in God's presence. Man is but dust and returns to the ground, but his soul is being made aware of the source from which its very life began; in the Spirit as a son to the Father, but now also being prepared as a bride for His Son.

Until one is called by God, all creation has shown no interest in the things of God and are clearly conformed to the god of this world (Satan). Those who's eyes and ears have been opened should always be operating in hope, that God's love can redeem and transform any human spirit by the Life of His Son. It is equally important we know that the drawing of the soul is clearly the work of the Father alone. For this reason, Jesus tells us not to give to the dogs what is holy, or to throw our pearls to the pigs. Unless we recognize God's Spirit in another, there is no work for us there.
 
I'd like to paraphrase something that Jesus commanded His disciples when He sent them out to proclaim the Kingdom of Heaven.

Matthew 10, Luke 10

"There are many who don't know me. Therefore, let your heart become one with mine so that my Spirit may go before you, preparing many to receive the good news so that they themselves will become fellow workers of the harvest. Be bold, yet lean on the guidance of the Spirit alone. And understand this, you will not be welcomed by many, for their minds are ruled by the demonic realm. Even so, I am sending you out to prepare the way for me, and I will follow behind, giving growth to the seeds you plant.

Don't concern yourself with basic needs. Take along no preconceived ideas of cash or credit, as to how you will support yourself, for the world's resources are mine. Rather trust me for your provision. It will come as I direct it. And certainly don't dress yourself up. Because I have sent you, I will provide for you.

Don't tarry in casual acquaintances with others on the way. Stay focused on the work I have prepared for you. Whatever house you come upon, extend your peaceful intentions. If my Father has drawn them, they will recognize you and welcome you in. If not, your peace will be immediately quenched.

Whatever house welcomes you, remain there and eat and drink whatever they may serve you. You need not worry about whether or not you can stomach their food, for it is I who have prepared the entire meal. The greater meaning of this is that in as much as I have sent you with a message, keep your eyes and ears open, for they, too, have encouragement for you. Fellowship is the meal of the saints.

Don't forsake the leading of the Holy Spirit, making your own way through this. Do not wander from one house to another, for the home you are staying at is the present work of the Father. The power I send with you will manifest itself according to what the Father has in mind for each person you come in contact with. Again, don't be anxious and don't encroach upon the work of the Spirit. He will bring everything to pass as it is purposed.

When you you enter a town, you must be open to the ways of that present society. Don't spend your time looking for places and things familiar to your own homeland. By now, you should even be a stranger in your own town. If you find yourself unwelcomed, then know that this is a demonic stronghold. Like the dust of the town you will wipe from your feet, let nothing compromise your focus on Me. The Holy Spirit has made it clear for you to move on. Even though they may despise your very presence, they can not argue with Me that they have not witnessed My Kingdom within you."

Unfortunately, the world is full of those going about their own business in the name of God, and we see the evidence of this through the division among professed Christians. Certainly, the love of many who call themselves 'believers' has grown cold in these last days. They peddle the word of God to fill their pockets to their own glorification. In the eyes and ears of the world looking on, Christianity is simply another abhorrent state of religiosity.

We must not assume upon ourselves the work of the Kingdom of Heaven. Spiritual discernment must take precedence over our own mind's strength and understanding.

PJR

"You did not choose me, but I chose you and appointed you that you should go and bear fruit and that your fruit should abide, so that whatever you ask the Father in my name, he may give it to you. These things I command you, so that you will love one another." (John 15:16-17)