Today’s Focus: The Power of Authority – The Centurions Faith
Scripture: Matthew 8:5-13
Greetings Kingdom Citizens
The funny thing about this story is that someone who was not Jewish, understood how authority works and how the key of faith works in the Kingdom and they weren’t even a citizen. When you read this story you see a centurion (Roman army leader) come to Jesus asking Him to heal his servant. Now Jesus tells Him that He will come and heal him. But look at the centurion’s response to Jesus answer verse 8! The centurion first says he is not worthy of having Jesus come under his roof BUT SPEAK THE WORD ONLY AND MY SERVANT SHALL BE HEALED. This is loaded so hold on. The centurion BELIEVED that all Jesus had to do was speak a word and the servant will be healed. Look at verse 9 now. See as a centurion, he was given authority over soldiers of the roman army so when He speaks, the soldiers do not here him, they hear Caesar, who is the ultimate authority in the Roman Empire. Please stay with me! So when you speak life or the Word of God who should people hear? Here is another example, when you break the law in the United States, the police come and stop you. When the police are talking to you and explaining what law you broke, you are not hearing the officer, you are listening to Washington D.C. and the Constitution, the authority of the United States. So, even though Jesus was on Earth, when He spoke, He spoke the Words of the Father who is in Ultimate Authority. Now look at Jesus words after the centurion explains how authority works, Jesus said “I have not found so great FAITH, no not in Israel. So the best person who understood authority in Jesus time was not even Jew, it was a Roman Centurion.
Now look at what happens to those who do not understand authority (vs.11,12). Some will sit with Abraham, Isaac and Jacob in the Kingdom of Heaven but others will be cast into out darkness. I do not know about you but I like Abraham, Isaac and Jacob J.
Finally, look at verse 13, Jesus says Go thy way; and as thou has BELIEVED, SO BE IT DONE UNTO THEE. Did we not say that faith is a Key of the Kingdom of God? This is a perfect example of faith in action and how it opened Heaven’s doors for the healing to come down to Earth.
Whose Authority are you under?
Abba’s Ambassador,
Min. Calvin Calhoun, Jr.
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Wednesday, February 18, 2009
Thursday, February 12, 2009
The Power of Doers
The Good News (Gospel) According to Matthew
Today’s Focus: The Power of Doers
Scripture: Matthew 7:24-29
Greetings Kingdom Citizens
I know we have heard this story but what does it mean. Ok, better question!
How many of us sit in church or worship service, hear the Word of God, know that the way we are living is sinful, and do not make a change?
Now look at the scriptures, those who have made the Word of God their foundation and law for living then when trouble comes, which it will, you will be able to stand and overcome the floods. But for those who have not made the Word of God their foundation and law for living then when trouble comes they will be swallowed up and swept away in the flood of troubles. Look what Jesus calls the people who have heard the Word of God and does not do them, “A foolish man”. Strong language but true! It is like you see trouble coming and people are trying to prepare you and you choose not to heed their warnings. Let me make this statement:
When someone is under the Holy Ghost, especially pastors, preachers, bishops and evangelist, preaching is not enough.
What I have learned is that the Holy Ghost is a teacher also. What good is it for someone to stand before you and declare things throughout the entire sermon and never teach you how to obtain or function in the Kingdom. It does you no good. Now look at verse 29! It says Jesus taught….So he showed and instructed the people on how to live and function in the Kingdom of God. Now look at the last portion which makes the difference between a religious person and a Kingdom Citizen. He taught them as one having AUTHORITY, and NOT AS THE SCRIBES! The scribes were the religious leaders at that time. So when you speak (hallelujah) and you speak the Word of God, you speak as one having authority. Ok! What did man lose in the Garden, Dominion or Authority. In other words, mankind lost the Holy Spirit. So when you are baptized and filled with the Holy Spirit and you allow the Holy Spirit to use your body to speak, then the words coming out of your mouth are the ones of Authority and Royal Power! Not some small, sorry religion! Proverbs 18:21, Death and Life are in the Power of the Tongue….The life we receive when we accept Jesus as Lord and Savior is a life of Authority and Dominion. So if the words coming out of your mouth are not ones of the Word of God and your life is not built on the foundation of the Word of God then when trouble arise you WILL be swept away! Not every message Jesus made was a prosperity or feel good message. Jesus dealt with the good and the bad and he taught there are consequences to those who do listen and obey the Word of God and those who do not listen and obey the Word of God.
Abba’s Ambassador,
Min. Calvin Calhoun, Jr.
Today’s Focus: The Power of Doers
Scripture: Matthew 7:24-29
Greetings Kingdom Citizens
I know we have heard this story but what does it mean. Ok, better question!
How many of us sit in church or worship service, hear the Word of God, know that the way we are living is sinful, and do not make a change?
Now look at the scriptures, those who have made the Word of God their foundation and law for living then when trouble comes, which it will, you will be able to stand and overcome the floods. But for those who have not made the Word of God their foundation and law for living then when trouble comes they will be swallowed up and swept away in the flood of troubles. Look what Jesus calls the people who have heard the Word of God and does not do them, “A foolish man”. Strong language but true! It is like you see trouble coming and people are trying to prepare you and you choose not to heed their warnings. Let me make this statement:
When someone is under the Holy Ghost, especially pastors, preachers, bishops and evangelist, preaching is not enough.
What I have learned is that the Holy Ghost is a teacher also. What good is it for someone to stand before you and declare things throughout the entire sermon and never teach you how to obtain or function in the Kingdom. It does you no good. Now look at verse 29! It says Jesus taught….So he showed and instructed the people on how to live and function in the Kingdom of God. Now look at the last portion which makes the difference between a religious person and a Kingdom Citizen. He taught them as one having AUTHORITY, and NOT AS THE SCRIBES! The scribes were the religious leaders at that time. So when you speak (hallelujah) and you speak the Word of God, you speak as one having authority. Ok! What did man lose in the Garden, Dominion or Authority. In other words, mankind lost the Holy Spirit. So when you are baptized and filled with the Holy Spirit and you allow the Holy Spirit to use your body to speak, then the words coming out of your mouth are the ones of Authority and Royal Power! Not some small, sorry religion! Proverbs 18:21, Death and Life are in the Power of the Tongue….The life we receive when we accept Jesus as Lord and Savior is a life of Authority and Dominion. So if the words coming out of your mouth are not ones of the Word of God and your life is not built on the foundation of the Word of God then when trouble arise you WILL be swept away! Not every message Jesus made was a prosperity or feel good message. Jesus dealt with the good and the bad and he taught there are consequences to those who do listen and obey the Word of God and those who do not listen and obey the Word of God.
Abba’s Ambassador,
Min. Calvin Calhoun, Jr.
Wednesday, February 11, 2009
Relationship, Not Religion!
The Good News (Gospel) According to Matthew
Today’s Focus: Relationship
Scripture: Matthew 7:21-23
Greetings Kingdom Citizens
I have said before in this ministry, that God desires relationship and not religion. How clear can this be said in this set of scriptures. Let’s deal with each scripture to see how this works.
Vs. 21 – Entering the Kingdom
Many people call on the name of Lord Jesus all the time. They say His name. They say they are a follower of Lord Jesus and they say the He is the head of their life. See all of this is lip service and lip service does not get you into the Kingdom. Ok! When somebody is Lord, that means they are over you and own you. You submit to their will and their directives. But this is what separates a religious Christian from a Kingdom citizen. Many Christians have not made Jesus Lord over their lives because it shows in their actions. So many people will SAY Lord, Lord but they will not enter (explore) the Kingdom. Now the good part! Jesus then says, but he that DOETH the will of my Father which is in Heaven. They are the ones that will enter (explore) the Kingdom of Heaven. Now, if you do not know what Kingdom life is then you are not in. You need to seek the Kingdom and repent. If you are in the Kingdom, you know what it feels like to live the Kingdom life. Love, joy, peace, patience, control of circumstances..etc , boy it feels good! You have to make a decision whose will are you going to do. God or Man? Yours or God’s?
Vs. 22 – Deeds
Now, Jesus extends this picture to those who are prophesying, casting out devils and doing all these wonderful works. Now you have people doing all these wonders but the question is where is their heart? Example, you can have power and not use it properly. Great example, money. You can have money and spend it on the wrong thing thinking it was good but all wrong. Regardless of the power, if used improperly and not used as intended by the source it is an abuse of power. The question is what was their heart’s intent when using this power. Is it for self-gain or promotion or is it to help build the Kingdom of God?
Vs. 23 – The Relationship
Now Jesus says in this verse that He will say to those workers of iniquity, depart from me, I knew you not. Look at the last portion, I knew you not. To know someone is to have a relationship with them. You are intimate (not sexually) with them. You are not just someone who claims Him because He is Lord. You know Him because He is family and Lord. This intimate relationship is not a relationship that should only flourish in the bad times but most of all in the good times. You must have a relationship and not a religion with Jesus. Jesus does not care about your rituals and robes and speech. He cares about your heart and your willingness to do the Will of the Father. Those who work iniquity will not enter into the Kingdom.
Which do you have with God the Father, God the Son and God the Holy Spirit?
Relationship or Religion?
Abba’s Son, Min. Calvin Calhoun, Jr.
Today’s Focus: Relationship
Scripture: Matthew 7:21-23
Greetings Kingdom Citizens
I have said before in this ministry, that God desires relationship and not religion. How clear can this be said in this set of scriptures. Let’s deal with each scripture to see how this works.
Vs. 21 – Entering the Kingdom
Many people call on the name of Lord Jesus all the time. They say His name. They say they are a follower of Lord Jesus and they say the He is the head of their life. See all of this is lip service and lip service does not get you into the Kingdom. Ok! When somebody is Lord, that means they are over you and own you. You submit to their will and their directives. But this is what separates a religious Christian from a Kingdom citizen. Many Christians have not made Jesus Lord over their lives because it shows in their actions. So many people will SAY Lord, Lord but they will not enter (explore) the Kingdom. Now the good part! Jesus then says, but he that DOETH the will of my Father which is in Heaven. They are the ones that will enter (explore) the Kingdom of Heaven. Now, if you do not know what Kingdom life is then you are not in. You need to seek the Kingdom and repent. If you are in the Kingdom, you know what it feels like to live the Kingdom life. Love, joy, peace, patience, control of circumstances..etc , boy it feels good! You have to make a decision whose will are you going to do. God or Man? Yours or God’s?
Vs. 22 – Deeds
Now, Jesus extends this picture to those who are prophesying, casting out devils and doing all these wonderful works. Now you have people doing all these wonders but the question is where is their heart? Example, you can have power and not use it properly. Great example, money. You can have money and spend it on the wrong thing thinking it was good but all wrong. Regardless of the power, if used improperly and not used as intended by the source it is an abuse of power. The question is what was their heart’s intent when using this power. Is it for self-gain or promotion or is it to help build the Kingdom of God?
Vs. 23 – The Relationship
Now Jesus says in this verse that He will say to those workers of iniquity, depart from me, I knew you not. Look at the last portion, I knew you not. To know someone is to have a relationship with them. You are intimate (not sexually) with them. You are not just someone who claims Him because He is Lord. You know Him because He is family and Lord. This intimate relationship is not a relationship that should only flourish in the bad times but most of all in the good times. You must have a relationship and not a religion with Jesus. Jesus does not care about your rituals and robes and speech. He cares about your heart and your willingness to do the Will of the Father. Those who work iniquity will not enter into the Kingdom.
Which do you have with God the Father, God the Son and God the Holy Spirit?
Relationship or Religion?
Abba’s Son, Min. Calvin Calhoun, Jr.
Tuesday, February 10, 2009
Beware of the Fruits
The Good News (Gospel) According to Matthew
Today’s Focus: Beware of the Fruits
Scripture: Matthew 7:15-20
Greetings Kingdom Citizens
I know all of us have heard the phrase, “if it looks too good to be true, it probably is”. Well get ready for this message. What is the center and main thing that we should be focused on in worship service? Is it the choir? The ushers? The praise and worship dancers? No! It is actually the Word of God! The message! Now, many people move from church to church to go where they can hear a “good Word”, so they say! Some go because they are legitimately spiritually hungry and some because they do not like a straight forward in your face message of truth. Now, we can turn on t.v. and see many evangelist, pastors and bishops preaching many things. Sad I even see many preaching without a Bible. Some believe you should not mention sin. Some just hoop and holler and get you on an emotional high. Some just wanna make you feel good about yourself, regardless of the apparent sin you are living in. Then there is a few of us who present the truth, whether it is good or bad, and use the terms that God said to use to describe who we are today and who we should be also. So the question is what fruits are being presented to you, not just on Sunday but everyday. Is your leadership, one way on worship day and the rest of the week they are worldly people that do not resemble the person on Sunday?
Jesus says beware of false prophets and you will know them by their fruits. Ok! This will be a hard statement but truth is truth! There are so many people calling themselves prophets and prophetess and they have not prophesied nothing, let alone have not even heard the voice of God. There are some preachers, pastors and bishops that have not even heard from God, but because they can sing, it is alright. The citizens have just fallen head over heels for these false prophets and do not realize that prophesy is a spiritual gift, just like preaching, teaching and evangelizing. Do not all citizens have the Holy Ghost? Does not the Holy Ghost know all, even the truth about the future and end of days? Now, the gift of prophesy is still a part of the ministry but please beware there are people who do not care about God and they are ripping of the saints because they want to prophesy a car, or house or all these material things to excite you and make you feel good. Look back at the past prophets such as Isaiah, Hosea and Jeremiah and you tell me about all of the prosperity prophecies they prophesied. Ok, I hope you got the point! Beware of these people! If their lives and words are not living up to the Word of God then you know you need to change the station.
Finally look at verse 19! If they are not bearing good fruit then they are a corrupt tree. Fruit comes from a seed. A seed is planted and fertilized until the tree grows and bears fruit. If someone is presenting a corrupt fruit then there is a corrupt seed that has been planted in their mind and been fertilized to a point where the fruit is apparent and visible. And look what happens to a corrupt tree, it is cast into the fire and for those of you who do not know what the fire is, it is Hell. It is time to evaluate the seeds that you allow to be planted in your mind and the seeds you want to fertilize and which fruit you want to grow. Funny, you will know the fruit that people are fertilizing by their lives. Which tree are you today?
Abba’s Ambassador,
Min. Calvin Calhoun, Jr.
Today’s Focus: Beware of the Fruits
Scripture: Matthew 7:15-20
Greetings Kingdom Citizens
I know all of us have heard the phrase, “if it looks too good to be true, it probably is”. Well get ready for this message. What is the center and main thing that we should be focused on in worship service? Is it the choir? The ushers? The praise and worship dancers? No! It is actually the Word of God! The message! Now, many people move from church to church to go where they can hear a “good Word”, so they say! Some go because they are legitimately spiritually hungry and some because they do not like a straight forward in your face message of truth. Now, we can turn on t.v. and see many evangelist, pastors and bishops preaching many things. Sad I even see many preaching without a Bible. Some believe you should not mention sin. Some just hoop and holler and get you on an emotional high. Some just wanna make you feel good about yourself, regardless of the apparent sin you are living in. Then there is a few of us who present the truth, whether it is good or bad, and use the terms that God said to use to describe who we are today and who we should be also. So the question is what fruits are being presented to you, not just on Sunday but everyday. Is your leadership, one way on worship day and the rest of the week they are worldly people that do not resemble the person on Sunday?
Jesus says beware of false prophets and you will know them by their fruits. Ok! This will be a hard statement but truth is truth! There are so many people calling themselves prophets and prophetess and they have not prophesied nothing, let alone have not even heard the voice of God. There are some preachers, pastors and bishops that have not even heard from God, but because they can sing, it is alright. The citizens have just fallen head over heels for these false prophets and do not realize that prophesy is a spiritual gift, just like preaching, teaching and evangelizing. Do not all citizens have the Holy Ghost? Does not the Holy Ghost know all, even the truth about the future and end of days? Now, the gift of prophesy is still a part of the ministry but please beware there are people who do not care about God and they are ripping of the saints because they want to prophesy a car, or house or all these material things to excite you and make you feel good. Look back at the past prophets such as Isaiah, Hosea and Jeremiah and you tell me about all of the prosperity prophecies they prophesied. Ok, I hope you got the point! Beware of these people! If their lives and words are not living up to the Word of God then you know you need to change the station.
Finally look at verse 19! If they are not bearing good fruit then they are a corrupt tree. Fruit comes from a seed. A seed is planted and fertilized until the tree grows and bears fruit. If someone is presenting a corrupt fruit then there is a corrupt seed that has been planted in their mind and been fertilized to a point where the fruit is apparent and visible. And look what happens to a corrupt tree, it is cast into the fire and for those of you who do not know what the fire is, it is Hell. It is time to evaluate the seeds that you allow to be planted in your mind and the seeds you want to fertilize and which fruit you want to grow. Funny, you will know the fruit that people are fertilizing by their lives. Which tree are you today?
Abba’s Ambassador,
Min. Calvin Calhoun, Jr.
The Strait Gate
The Good News (Gospel) According to Matthew
Today’s Focus: The Strait Gate
Scripture: Matthew 7:13-14
Greetings Kingdom Citizens
I know we have seen and read this scripture and many have remembered it and can quote it. But there is a very unique and clear message in what Jesus said in just these two verses. Let’s look at both the ways:
The Wide Gate
This is the road that many religious Christians and so called citizens are travelling. See, even with the people who are lost you will find saved people on this path. Why you ask? Because their minds have not been transformed so they still do the things of the world and try to justify it with some one-line scripture and completely misuse it. The question is:
What makes you different from everyone else on Earth?
Now many will rush to answer and say, I am Christian and a child of God. Now if that is so, why do you still act like the world? Why do you use curse words? Why do you dance in the clubs like the world (why go to a singles club being married? Just a thought), why do you listen to worldly music and glorify and condone the harmful messages they are sending to the world? See in order to answer that question the only thing that can answer for you is your life. God is tired of lip service because He knows your heart and where it is. So many are on this path and as you already read this path leads to destruction and many are on it. What it really comes down to, is whether you really want God. Harsh but true! Because if you really wanted God to be the head over your life, then your life should mimic the exact same thing.
The Strait Gate
It is very hard to enter this gate. Reason being is that you have to deny and turn aside the ways of the world that may have been normal to you and follow the ways of Christ. Now, is it a very strict lifestyle? Yes. Is it hard? At the beginning it is. But the fruits of obedience are so much greater! See few find this path because it takes a special person to find this gate because they have made a deep rooted decision to follow Christ and His commandment and nothing in their life will ever be the same. Once you have a encounter with the King, you are never the same. Sad but many people parading around like they know God, have not even heard him and they are at an old age. What a shame. But this all depends on you and your heart’s desire. If you want God and want what He has for you then you have to show Him in your actions you mean what you are saying. I can personally tell you that it is not easy when you start out, it is hard not to do the things of the world. But God is going to bless you and reward you for your choice. So this path leads to life and the wide gate leads to death and destruction. .
This is a very straight forward message. Jesus was clear! Follow me and know it will not always be easy but I (Jesus) am with you always.
Abba’s Ambassador,
Min. Calvin Calhoun, Jr.
Today’s Focus: The Strait Gate
Scripture: Matthew 7:13-14
Greetings Kingdom Citizens
I know we have seen and read this scripture and many have remembered it and can quote it. But there is a very unique and clear message in what Jesus said in just these two verses. Let’s look at both the ways:
The Wide Gate
This is the road that many religious Christians and so called citizens are travelling. See, even with the people who are lost you will find saved people on this path. Why you ask? Because their minds have not been transformed so they still do the things of the world and try to justify it with some one-line scripture and completely misuse it. The question is:
What makes you different from everyone else on Earth?
Now many will rush to answer and say, I am Christian and a child of God. Now if that is so, why do you still act like the world? Why do you use curse words? Why do you dance in the clubs like the world (why go to a singles club being married? Just a thought), why do you listen to worldly music and glorify and condone the harmful messages they are sending to the world? See in order to answer that question the only thing that can answer for you is your life. God is tired of lip service because He knows your heart and where it is. So many are on this path and as you already read this path leads to destruction and many are on it. What it really comes down to, is whether you really want God. Harsh but true! Because if you really wanted God to be the head over your life, then your life should mimic the exact same thing.
The Strait Gate
It is very hard to enter this gate. Reason being is that you have to deny and turn aside the ways of the world that may have been normal to you and follow the ways of Christ. Now, is it a very strict lifestyle? Yes. Is it hard? At the beginning it is. But the fruits of obedience are so much greater! See few find this path because it takes a special person to find this gate because they have made a deep rooted decision to follow Christ and His commandment and nothing in their life will ever be the same. Once you have a encounter with the King, you are never the same. Sad but many people parading around like they know God, have not even heard him and they are at an old age. What a shame. But this all depends on you and your heart’s desire. If you want God and want what He has for you then you have to show Him in your actions you mean what you are saying. I can personally tell you that it is not easy when you start out, it is hard not to do the things of the world. But God is going to bless you and reward you for your choice. So this path leads to life and the wide gate leads to death and destruction. .
This is a very straight forward message. Jesus was clear! Follow me and know it will not always be easy but I (Jesus) am with you always.
Abba’s Ambassador,
Min. Calvin Calhoun, Jr.
Sunday, February 8, 2009
Asking of the Kingdom
Today’s Focus: Asking of the Kingdom
Scripture: Matthew 7:7-12
Greetings Kingdom Citizens
Getting things and our needs met from Heaven is actually very simple but you can not think naturally or in the order of the world. When you want something in this world, you work to get it and you save to get it and you sacrifice to get it, but the Kingdom of God is slightly different. Look at the words of Jesus in verse 7! Getting things and your needs met are solely dependent on your love and desire to know God. Ok! For example, Matthew 6:33 starts by saying “But seek ye first….”. The key word is seek! Then the ending of that verse is that if you seek the Kingdom and His righteousness then all of these things shall be added unto you. Addition is dependent on your willingness to seek. And the only way you can seek is with all of your heart and have fire and desire to want to know God and obey His commandments and study His Word! This is where the rubber hits the road and the difference between religion and the Kingdom of God. In verse 7 it says Ask, Seek, Knock and all of these words are action words and not just words you speak because they sound good. If you do that then you are wasting your time. So, you having needs and desiring things from the Kingdom depends on you, your actions and your heart towards God. Jesus then goes on to show you, even being evil, give good gifts to your children. How much do you think God, your Father will give to you? Finally, verse 12! What is known as the golden rule! So, if you want to be respected and trusted, then you must give respect and show that you are true to your word. Funny, God is the exact same way with us. If we want forgiveness from Him then we have to forgive. If we want gifts and riches from Heaven, then we have to give on Earth! I know this sounds simple and practical and the reality is, that it is. You have to be willing to position yourself and determine that you want to be under Lord Jesus’ rule and obey the commandments with all your heart. So the next time you think about popping off or snapping at someone, think about how you would want to be treated, then make the decision. Listen and think first, act second!
Abba’s Son, Min. Calvin Calhoun, Jr.
Scripture: Matthew 7:7-12
Greetings Kingdom Citizens
Getting things and our needs met from Heaven is actually very simple but you can not think naturally or in the order of the world. When you want something in this world, you work to get it and you save to get it and you sacrifice to get it, but the Kingdom of God is slightly different. Look at the words of Jesus in verse 7! Getting things and your needs met are solely dependent on your love and desire to know God. Ok! For example, Matthew 6:33 starts by saying “But seek ye first….”. The key word is seek! Then the ending of that verse is that if you seek the Kingdom and His righteousness then all of these things shall be added unto you. Addition is dependent on your willingness to seek. And the only way you can seek is with all of your heart and have fire and desire to want to know God and obey His commandments and study His Word! This is where the rubber hits the road and the difference between religion and the Kingdom of God. In verse 7 it says Ask, Seek, Knock and all of these words are action words and not just words you speak because they sound good. If you do that then you are wasting your time. So, you having needs and desiring things from the Kingdom depends on you, your actions and your heart towards God. Jesus then goes on to show you, even being evil, give good gifts to your children. How much do you think God, your Father will give to you? Finally, verse 12! What is known as the golden rule! So, if you want to be respected and trusted, then you must give respect and show that you are true to your word. Funny, God is the exact same way with us. If we want forgiveness from Him then we have to forgive. If we want gifts and riches from Heaven, then we have to give on Earth! I know this sounds simple and practical and the reality is, that it is. You have to be willing to position yourself and determine that you want to be under Lord Jesus’ rule and obey the commandments with all your heart. So the next time you think about popping off or snapping at someone, think about how you would want to be treated, then make the decision. Listen and think first, act second!
Abba’s Son, Min. Calvin Calhoun, Jr.
Balancing Love and Discernment
Today’s Focus: Balancing Love and Discernment
Scripture: Matthew 7:6
Greetings Kingdom Citizens
When I came upon this scripture, I had some problems initially discerning what Jesus was talking about. But after studying and asking God for understanding this is what He revealed to me.
Jesus wants us to give to the poor and preach the Gospel of the Kingdom unto all nations. But, Jesus also knows that not everyone will receive it. Some will take it and blaspheme and ridicule the messenger and the message itself. Have you ever tried to talk about the Gospel to someone and then they tried to use the exact same scripture against you to make fun of you and persecute you. I know it has happened to me. But look at the said scripture because here is a case that you have to have spiritual discernment about people and who God tells you to give the gospel to.
In this scripture, Jesus is saying do not give what is holy or cast your pearls to the dogs and swine respectively. Because of the hardness of some people’s hearts to the gospel, so will never get it and some maybe confused. It is best to leave those there for the King to bring some understanding when He comes back. Are we commanded to love our enemies and those who despitefully use us? Yes! But Jesus is saying don’t let that blind you to the point where you cannot spiritually discern to evil motives within men in how they will receive the message about the precious gift of the gospel of the Kingdom.
Abba’s Ambassador,
Min. Calvin Calhoun, Jr.
Scripture: Matthew 7:6
Greetings Kingdom Citizens
When I came upon this scripture, I had some problems initially discerning what Jesus was talking about. But after studying and asking God for understanding this is what He revealed to me.
Jesus wants us to give to the poor and preach the Gospel of the Kingdom unto all nations. But, Jesus also knows that not everyone will receive it. Some will take it and blaspheme and ridicule the messenger and the message itself. Have you ever tried to talk about the Gospel to someone and then they tried to use the exact same scripture against you to make fun of you and persecute you. I know it has happened to me. But look at the said scripture because here is a case that you have to have spiritual discernment about people and who God tells you to give the gospel to.
In this scripture, Jesus is saying do not give what is holy or cast your pearls to the dogs and swine respectively. Because of the hardness of some people’s hearts to the gospel, so will never get it and some maybe confused. It is best to leave those there for the King to bring some understanding when He comes back. Are we commanded to love our enemies and those who despitefully use us? Yes! But Jesus is saying don’t let that blind you to the point where you cannot spiritually discern to evil motives within men in how they will receive the message about the precious gift of the gospel of the Kingdom.
Abba’s Ambassador,
Min. Calvin Calhoun, Jr.
Judging
Today’s Focus: Judging
Scripture: Matthew 7:1-8
Greetings Kingdom Citizens
Now after showing them and explaining to the multitude about seeking God’s Kingdom and His righteousness, He then lead off with Judge not lest you be judged. In other words, the same way you judge others is the same standard you will be judged by. Then Jesus goes on to say make sure your got your house in order before you go around trying to clean somebody elses. I like sharing my own testimony because I have nothing to hide but hopefully it will help someone else along the way. When I heard my calling from God to the ministry, God told me that I needed to get my life in order. So the fornication and the excessive drinking and the shacking had to stop because in order to be able to speak to God’s people, His messenger had to be right position with Him! Great example is Paul and the Demascus Experience! Paul was on his way to kill the disciples and believers of Jesus until God knocked him off his horse, blinded him and then had Annanias to come a lay hands on Him and through the power of the Holy Spirit, lift His blinded eyes, become saved and preach the gospel of the Kingdom. So here we have a man who was killing the followers of Christ then becoming one! But Paul had to get His life in order. Everything he was before accepting Jesus as Lord is completely different now.
I had to go through the lifestyle change and the mental transformation (Romans 12:1,2) before I could go before God’s people and preach His Holy Word. So many times we profess we are children of the King but we do not act like it and the words out of your mouth are not that of a citizen of the Kingdom. When you rebuke something, you rebuke it in love and usually the one’s it is convicting are the ones that respond the most harshly. But can we say Jesus says let your yea be yea and your nay be nay. So right is right and wrong is wrong! There is not in between. Make sure before you go out and spread truth and correction that you are in order and your life is the same.
Abba’s Ambassador,
Min. Calvin Calhoun, Jr.
Scripture: Matthew 7:1-8
Greetings Kingdom Citizens
Now after showing them and explaining to the multitude about seeking God’s Kingdom and His righteousness, He then lead off with Judge not lest you be judged. In other words, the same way you judge others is the same standard you will be judged by. Then Jesus goes on to say make sure your got your house in order before you go around trying to clean somebody elses. I like sharing my own testimony because I have nothing to hide but hopefully it will help someone else along the way. When I heard my calling from God to the ministry, God told me that I needed to get my life in order. So the fornication and the excessive drinking and the shacking had to stop because in order to be able to speak to God’s people, His messenger had to be right position with Him! Great example is Paul and the Demascus Experience! Paul was on his way to kill the disciples and believers of Jesus until God knocked him off his horse, blinded him and then had Annanias to come a lay hands on Him and through the power of the Holy Spirit, lift His blinded eyes, become saved and preach the gospel of the Kingdom. So here we have a man who was killing the followers of Christ then becoming one! But Paul had to get His life in order. Everything he was before accepting Jesus as Lord is completely different now.
I had to go through the lifestyle change and the mental transformation (Romans 12:1,2) before I could go before God’s people and preach His Holy Word. So many times we profess we are children of the King but we do not act like it and the words out of your mouth are not that of a citizen of the Kingdom. When you rebuke something, you rebuke it in love and usually the one’s it is convicting are the ones that respond the most harshly. But can we say Jesus says let your yea be yea and your nay be nay. So right is right and wrong is wrong! There is not in between. Make sure before you go out and spread truth and correction that you are in order and your life is the same.
Abba’s Ambassador,
Min. Calvin Calhoun, Jr.
Friday, February 6, 2009
God's Primary Interest: The Kingdom
Today’s Focus: God’s Primary Interest: The Kingdom
Scripture: Matthew 6:31-34
Greetings Kingdom Citizens
Jesus leads off by re-emphasizing not to worry about food, water or clothing. Now look at what Jesus calls the people that do that, the Gentiles. Now I do not know about you but I am not no pagan. So worrying about those things cause you to be like a pagan. Now look at what Jesus says: For your Heavenly Father knows that you need all of these things. In other words, do not pray for things! Now here comes what your priority in life is and funny it has always been that from the beginning.
“But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness and all of these things shall be added unto you.”
In other words seek God’s rulership in your life and stay in position with Him and everything else He will give to you. Beautiful!! Now we have a huge problem! As simple as that sounds religion and satan is driving doubt and insecurity right through this scripture. See, if you understand this scripture you can govern yourself and be the thorn in satan’s side everyday. But because of the way of the world and the way satan is influencing the church. This scripture gets lost but this is what our primary focus in life to do and ensure all of our needs and desires are met.
Finally, in verse 34 Jesus states not to worry about tomorrow. See when we worry, we worry long term and worry about tomorrow more than anything, but Jesus says don’t do it. Let me pose a thought!
Tommorrow never comes so why worry about it when today is always here!
Decide today to impact Earth with God’s Will. We will do an extensive breakdown of verse 33 later on a special set of emails. So, seek the Kingdom and stay in position and watch God add everything you ever need.
Abba’s Ambassador,
Min. Calvin Calhoun, Jr.
Scripture: Matthew 6:31-34
Greetings Kingdom Citizens
Jesus leads off by re-emphasizing not to worry about food, water or clothing. Now look at what Jesus calls the people that do that, the Gentiles. Now I do not know about you but I am not no pagan. So worrying about those things cause you to be like a pagan. Now look at what Jesus says: For your Heavenly Father knows that you need all of these things. In other words, do not pray for things! Now here comes what your priority in life is and funny it has always been that from the beginning.
“But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness and all of these things shall be added unto you.”
In other words seek God’s rulership in your life and stay in position with Him and everything else He will give to you. Beautiful!! Now we have a huge problem! As simple as that sounds religion and satan is driving doubt and insecurity right through this scripture. See, if you understand this scripture you can govern yourself and be the thorn in satan’s side everyday. But because of the way of the world and the way satan is influencing the church. This scripture gets lost but this is what our primary focus in life to do and ensure all of our needs and desires are met.
Finally, in verse 34 Jesus states not to worry about tomorrow. See when we worry, we worry long term and worry about tomorrow more than anything, but Jesus says don’t do it. Let me pose a thought!
Tommorrow never comes so why worry about it when today is always here!
Decide today to impact Earth with God’s Will. We will do an extensive breakdown of verse 33 later on a special set of emails. So, seek the Kingdom and stay in position and watch God add everything you ever need.
Abba’s Ambassador,
Min. Calvin Calhoun, Jr.
Do Not Worry
Today’s Focus: Introduction to the Kingdom Life: Do Not Worry
Scripture: Matthew 6:25-30
Kingdom Key #2 - Faith
Greetings Kingdom Citizens
The next set of emails is going to bless somebody because it blessed me. This is probably the most important set of emails we will do because, Jesus is now about to introduce the most important thing to God, His Kingdom and He is about to teach you how to live in it.
Verse 25
Jesus destroys your prayer life in this scripture. In our past emails on prayer I told you that you do not pray for things and look at what Jesus says you worry and pray about. The phrase “take no thought” means do not worry. Jesus now says life is more than that. So food, water and clothing is nothing in the Kingdom. This should not be a part of your prayer list. Now if this is your problem and you call yourself a citizen or a “Christian” then you are not Kingdom! Hard to say but true if you go by the statement of Jesus.
Verse 26 – The Birds
Now, I do not know about you but Jesus told us to look at the birds. And after this email, please go do so. For they sow not nor do they reap or gather in barns, yet God feeds them. Here is the blessing. If the birds, never worry about being fed or having enough food then why are you worried. Look at the scripture, why do you store up so much food and throw it out later because it spoils. What a waste! Instead of feeding the poor and consistently giving to those who do not have. You should never, ever, worry if you are a citizen of the Kingdom about food and where it will come from and how much you need or have because the birds do not. Moreover, aren’t you a child of God. Aren’t you more important to God than the birds? Why are the birds laughing at you when they see you panicking over food?
Verse 27 – Worry leads to Death
Now Jesus states in this scripture that regardless if you worry you will not add any time to your life. As a pharmacist, I can tell you when you worry, you increase blood pressure and stress on the body which when prolonged will lead to heart disease and other diseases such as cancer , diabetes, kidney disease, etc. then death. Children of God and citizens of the Kingdom of God should not worry because they have been promised that God will supply all of their needs
Verse 28-30
Jesus now shifts to worrying about clothing for the body. He uses the lillies and the grass. Look how he clothes them and how they grow regardless of the situations or climate. So if God will clothe the flowers and grass. What about you? Do you see the grass or flowers worrying about being protected and clothed. Absolutely not! So should we? I pray you are getting the first component of the Kingdom of God, no worrying.
So the opposite of worry is faith! I know that hit you like it hit me! When you have faith and know the laws and promises of God then you do not worry because you know God will do what He says in His Word. But if you worry, you just negated faith. How about this and you will see it later. When Jesus healed someone He always made a statement like this “your faith has made you whole”. Citizens, that is one of the Keys of the Kingdom.
I told you to get ready to be blessed, we are going to look through the entire 4 Gospels and understand the most misunderstood person in History, Jesus!
Abba’s Ambassador, Min. Calvin Calhoun, Jr.
Scripture: Matthew 6:25-30
Kingdom Key #2 - Faith
Greetings Kingdom Citizens
The next set of emails is going to bless somebody because it blessed me. This is probably the most important set of emails we will do because, Jesus is now about to introduce the most important thing to God, His Kingdom and He is about to teach you how to live in it.
Verse 25
Jesus destroys your prayer life in this scripture. In our past emails on prayer I told you that you do not pray for things and look at what Jesus says you worry and pray about. The phrase “take no thought” means do not worry. Jesus now says life is more than that. So food, water and clothing is nothing in the Kingdom. This should not be a part of your prayer list. Now if this is your problem and you call yourself a citizen or a “Christian” then you are not Kingdom! Hard to say but true if you go by the statement of Jesus.
Verse 26 – The Birds
Now, I do not know about you but Jesus told us to look at the birds. And after this email, please go do so. For they sow not nor do they reap or gather in barns, yet God feeds them. Here is the blessing. If the birds, never worry about being fed or having enough food then why are you worried. Look at the scripture, why do you store up so much food and throw it out later because it spoils. What a waste! Instead of feeding the poor and consistently giving to those who do not have. You should never, ever, worry if you are a citizen of the Kingdom about food and where it will come from and how much you need or have because the birds do not. Moreover, aren’t you a child of God. Aren’t you more important to God than the birds? Why are the birds laughing at you when they see you panicking over food?
Verse 27 – Worry leads to Death
Now Jesus states in this scripture that regardless if you worry you will not add any time to your life. As a pharmacist, I can tell you when you worry, you increase blood pressure and stress on the body which when prolonged will lead to heart disease and other diseases such as cancer , diabetes, kidney disease, etc. then death. Children of God and citizens of the Kingdom of God should not worry because they have been promised that God will supply all of their needs
Verse 28-30
Jesus now shifts to worrying about clothing for the body. He uses the lillies and the grass. Look how he clothes them and how they grow regardless of the situations or climate. So if God will clothe the flowers and grass. What about you? Do you see the grass or flowers worrying about being protected and clothed. Absolutely not! So should we? I pray you are getting the first component of the Kingdom of God, no worrying.
So the opposite of worry is faith! I know that hit you like it hit me! When you have faith and know the laws and promises of God then you do not worry because you know God will do what He says in His Word. But if you worry, you just negated faith. How about this and you will see it later. When Jesus healed someone He always made a statement like this “your faith has made you whole”. Citizens, that is one of the Keys of the Kingdom.
I told you to get ready to be blessed, we are going to look through the entire 4 Gospels and understand the most misunderstood person in History, Jesus!
Abba’s Ambassador, Min. Calvin Calhoun, Jr.
Masters
Today’s Focus: Masters
Scripture: Matthew 6:24
Greetings Kingdom Citizens
Now, I know I will not have to spend much time on this issue so let’s nail it and go. Obviously, Jesus is saying you cannot serve two masters. But look who He says it is between, God and Man! Ok, before you go crazy and do something you will regret.
I asked this question previously in another Email, Who do you serve? Now, here is the catch. God is paramount to man. Can we agree on that! So anything that man tells you that go against your King’s law is sin. This is why when you elect a President or Prime Minister or whoever you leader is, you should know whether they are a citizen of the Kingdom of God. Why? Because if they are not, then they cannot effectively administrate the Will of God in their decisions and policies. So any politician that does not know the mind of God and can care less about executing His Will for the nation, will not and lends themselves to corruption. That is why righteousness exalts the nation. Let me give some examples:
1. Abortion is sin in the Kingdom of God.
2. Homosexuality is an abomination to the King.
I used these two because they are some of the major issues in the United States but for many of you that might not be the issues. When you are an Ambassador of the Kingdom, and I am proud to say I am, then your opinion does not matter! So you do not think about issues, you simply state what your Kingdom’s position is. So you actually answer to a Higher Power which is God the Father. See, even when the economy is falling in a ditch, the children of God will be prospering. But when you serve man, then all of the powers they have is temporary and so is yours. As they come then your power come, then as they go, so does your power. But what I like about my government (Kingdom of God) my King is forever and His economy is stable! So today you have a choice. You can live under man or under God?
Abba’s Ambassador,
Min. Calvin Calhoun, Jr.
Scripture: Matthew 6:24
Greetings Kingdom Citizens
Now, I know I will not have to spend much time on this issue so let’s nail it and go. Obviously, Jesus is saying you cannot serve two masters. But look who He says it is between, God and Man! Ok, before you go crazy and do something you will regret.
I asked this question previously in another Email, Who do you serve? Now, here is the catch. God is paramount to man. Can we agree on that! So anything that man tells you that go against your King’s law is sin. This is why when you elect a President or Prime Minister or whoever you leader is, you should know whether they are a citizen of the Kingdom of God. Why? Because if they are not, then they cannot effectively administrate the Will of God in their decisions and policies. So any politician that does not know the mind of God and can care less about executing His Will for the nation, will not and lends themselves to corruption. That is why righteousness exalts the nation. Let me give some examples:
1. Abortion is sin in the Kingdom of God.
2. Homosexuality is an abomination to the King.
I used these two because they are some of the major issues in the United States but for many of you that might not be the issues. When you are an Ambassador of the Kingdom, and I am proud to say I am, then your opinion does not matter! So you do not think about issues, you simply state what your Kingdom’s position is. So you actually answer to a Higher Power which is God the Father. See, even when the economy is falling in a ditch, the children of God will be prospering. But when you serve man, then all of the powers they have is temporary and so is yours. As they come then your power come, then as they go, so does your power. But what I like about my government (Kingdom of God) my King is forever and His economy is stable! So today you have a choice. You can live under man or under God?
Abba’s Ambassador,
Min. Calvin Calhoun, Jr.
Monday, February 2, 2009
God's Treasure
Today’s Focus: God’s Treasure
Scripture: Matthew 6:19:24; Matthew 3:11
Greetings Kingdom Citizens
First, we all understand that God owns Heaven and Earth! Second we know that He gave Earth to His children to maintain the standards He set in Heaven so that Heaven and Earth can be mirror images. But, we know after the Garden, that has been damaged. So everything on the Earth, God owns. Now, in this scripture Jesus says we should lay up ourselves treasures in Heaven. Now, when we look at treasures, Jesus knows that people love their possessions. They “treasure” them! In other words, they are their most prized possessions on Earth. But this is a problem! And Jesus clearly states why in verse 21! That is where your heart is! Very clearly stated and to expound, if someone tried to take that treasured possession that person will defend it with their life. If someone took it, they would do everything they could to get it back because that is what means the most to them. Now, this is not just for unsaved people but for the citizens of the Kingdom especially. God just revealed this to me! Do you know what your most treasured possession is? Hmm! It is the Holy Spirit! Now let’s see why that is.
1. Without the Holy Spirit, you cannot know God’s Will and bring the Kingdom’s impact to Earth.
2. Jesus brought back to Earth the Kingdom of Heaven and scripturally He came to give us someone. The Holy Spirit - Matthew 3:11
So the one thing that you should treasure the most is the Holy Spirit! What you view as important is what your heart is locked into (vs. 22-23). So when you do the Will of God then you can impact the Earth with the Kingdom and watch blessings abound around you that you cannot contain. But, when you treasure the things of the world then, you set yourself up for disappointment, despair, heartache, depression and all these other diseases because all of the things of this world will pass away and once you die, you can’t take them with you anyway. Look at this real quickly! Since God owns everything, none of it is actually yours! Stay with me please! When you stake ownership to something then it is yours and that’s it! You hoard it and you become selfish over that one thing. But when you understand that you do not own anything, when God says give it up, you are more apt to give it up and then He will continue to bless you with more than you can handle because He knows you do not stake ownership in the things of this world. So the car I drive is Kingdom of God’s property! The house that I live in is Kingdom of God’s property. The mortgage on the house is God’s mortgage and He pays the bill! See, it pays not to stake ownership in nothing so that you do not get attached to those things and not be able to give them up when God requires us to. Are you willing to give up your possessions, if God calls you to? Where does is your heart at? Heaven or Earth
Abba’s Ambassador,
Min. Calvin Calhoun, Jr.
Scripture: Matthew 6:19:24; Matthew 3:11
Greetings Kingdom Citizens
First, we all understand that God owns Heaven and Earth! Second we know that He gave Earth to His children to maintain the standards He set in Heaven so that Heaven and Earth can be mirror images. But, we know after the Garden, that has been damaged. So everything on the Earth, God owns. Now, in this scripture Jesus says we should lay up ourselves treasures in Heaven. Now, when we look at treasures, Jesus knows that people love their possessions. They “treasure” them! In other words, they are their most prized possessions on Earth. But this is a problem! And Jesus clearly states why in verse 21! That is where your heart is! Very clearly stated and to expound, if someone tried to take that treasured possession that person will defend it with their life. If someone took it, they would do everything they could to get it back because that is what means the most to them. Now, this is not just for unsaved people but for the citizens of the Kingdom especially. God just revealed this to me! Do you know what your most treasured possession is? Hmm! It is the Holy Spirit! Now let’s see why that is.
1. Without the Holy Spirit, you cannot know God’s Will and bring the Kingdom’s impact to Earth.
2. Jesus brought back to Earth the Kingdom of Heaven and scripturally He came to give us someone. The Holy Spirit - Matthew 3:11
So the one thing that you should treasure the most is the Holy Spirit! What you view as important is what your heart is locked into (vs. 22-23). So when you do the Will of God then you can impact the Earth with the Kingdom and watch blessings abound around you that you cannot contain. But, when you treasure the things of the world then, you set yourself up for disappointment, despair, heartache, depression and all these other diseases because all of the things of this world will pass away and once you die, you can’t take them with you anyway. Look at this real quickly! Since God owns everything, none of it is actually yours! Stay with me please! When you stake ownership to something then it is yours and that’s it! You hoard it and you become selfish over that one thing. But when you understand that you do not own anything, when God says give it up, you are more apt to give it up and then He will continue to bless you with more than you can handle because He knows you do not stake ownership in the things of this world. So the car I drive is Kingdom of God’s property! The house that I live in is Kingdom of God’s property. The mortgage on the house is God’s mortgage and He pays the bill! See, it pays not to stake ownership in nothing so that you do not get attached to those things and not be able to give them up when God requires us to. Are you willing to give up your possessions, if God calls you to? Where does is your heart at? Heaven or Earth
Abba’s Ambassador,
Min. Calvin Calhoun, Jr.
Fasting
Today’s Focus: Fasting
Scripture: Matthew 6:16-18
Greetings Kingdom Citizens
Ok! I know there are a lot of reasons to fast and religion has made many of them. For example, Lent, the 40 days and nights of fasting. Why is it only that time of the year do we deal with fasting and the other 316 days we just live like we want to. Even better, we do “stupid” things like, I am going to fast from cursing or I am going to fast from fighting. See things like that makes no sense because you do not need to fast to do the right thing. There is no particular time limit for fasting. The purpose of fasting has been completely lost. So let’s get to the formula and purpose of fasting.
The purpose of fasting is to get your flesh under control so that your spirit can take over and you can hear God clearly. Now if you are medication for metabolic situations (diabetes, high blood pressure) then it is important to follow your directions expressed by your pharmacist and/or doctor about your diet. Do you ever wonder why you fast food when you fast. Well if you deplete or withhold the body from food then the only thing your body will want is food. Sex will not do it, playing football will not do it, playing video games will not satisfy the body’s hunger. Only food! So when your flesh is under control then you can allow your spirit to take control and place you in a position to hear God clearly. You know what would be a great fast and I did it when I was confirming my calling into the ministry. I turned off the t.v. while I fasted. You will be amazed at how clear you will hear God without the t.v. Fasting is meant to be able for you to get that unruly flesh under subjection and allow you to not only hear God, but act on His instructions. That is what fasting is. Get your bodies under control today and hear the Word of the Lord!
Abba’s Minister,
Min. Calvin Calhoun, Jr.
Scripture: Matthew 6:16-18
Greetings Kingdom Citizens
Ok! I know there are a lot of reasons to fast and religion has made many of them. For example, Lent, the 40 days and nights of fasting. Why is it only that time of the year do we deal with fasting and the other 316 days we just live like we want to. Even better, we do “stupid” things like, I am going to fast from cursing or I am going to fast from fighting. See things like that makes no sense because you do not need to fast to do the right thing. There is no particular time limit for fasting. The purpose of fasting has been completely lost. So let’s get to the formula and purpose of fasting.
The purpose of fasting is to get your flesh under control so that your spirit can take over and you can hear God clearly. Now if you are medication for metabolic situations (diabetes, high blood pressure) then it is important to follow your directions expressed by your pharmacist and/or doctor about your diet. Do you ever wonder why you fast food when you fast. Well if you deplete or withhold the body from food then the only thing your body will want is food. Sex will not do it, playing football will not do it, playing video games will not satisfy the body’s hunger. Only food! So when your flesh is under control then you can allow your spirit to take control and place you in a position to hear God clearly. You know what would be a great fast and I did it when I was confirming my calling into the ministry. I turned off the t.v. while I fasted. You will be amazed at how clear you will hear God without the t.v. Fasting is meant to be able for you to get that unruly flesh under subjection and allow you to not only hear God, but act on His instructions. That is what fasting is. Get your bodies under control today and hear the Word of the Lord!
Abba’s Minister,
Min. Calvin Calhoun, Jr.
Saturday, January 31, 2009
Kingdom Key: Forgiveness
Today’s Focus: Kingdom Key #1 – The Power of Forgiveness
Scripture: Matthew 6:14-15
Greetings Kingdom Citizens
Throughout the Gospels we will bring to light what God has shown me as a Key of the Kingdom of God. In order to explore the Kingdom, you have to know the keys and I have been blessed to have found a couple of the keys in my seeking the Kingdom over the past couple of months. So today we will discuss one of them.
Now how unique after the prayer, Jesus goes to re-emphasize forgiveness. But what He said is not to be taken lightly at all because if you want what is yours and you want your prayers to be heard by the King then this must happen. It is not an option but a divine directive. Look at verse 14! He starts off by stating if you do forgive men their trespasses. So, it is important that you forgive your sisters or brothers that you have done wrong or they have done you wrong because that messes with your right-positioning or righteousness with God. And if you are not aligned with God, forget about Heaven being a open door with blessings flowing down. Heaven is a cold door if you cannot forgive your brother or sister. Now as bad as that seems the second half of that scripture is even more important. It states “your Heavenly Father will also forgive you”. Now I do not know about you but I want the Father to forgive me of the sins I have committed. How about this for a thought! What do you think would happen is God did not forgive you about the thoughts you had just today? Good, you got the point! We should always be in a position to ask for forgiveness because God is always in a position to give forgiveness.
In closing, in order to open up some of those Kingdom doors in Heaven, you must forgive. Whether it be peace, healing, prosperity, victory..etc. It will not happen if you do not forgive.
Abba’s Ambassador,
Min. Calvin Calhoun, Jr.
Scripture: Matthew 6:14-15
Greetings Kingdom Citizens
Throughout the Gospels we will bring to light what God has shown me as a Key of the Kingdom of God. In order to explore the Kingdom, you have to know the keys and I have been blessed to have found a couple of the keys in my seeking the Kingdom over the past couple of months. So today we will discuss one of them.
Now how unique after the prayer, Jesus goes to re-emphasize forgiveness. But what He said is not to be taken lightly at all because if you want what is yours and you want your prayers to be heard by the King then this must happen. It is not an option but a divine directive. Look at verse 14! He starts off by stating if you do forgive men their trespasses. So, it is important that you forgive your sisters or brothers that you have done wrong or they have done you wrong because that messes with your right-positioning or righteousness with God. And if you are not aligned with God, forget about Heaven being a open door with blessings flowing down. Heaven is a cold door if you cannot forgive your brother or sister. Now as bad as that seems the second half of that scripture is even more important. It states “your Heavenly Father will also forgive you”. Now I do not know about you but I want the Father to forgive me of the sins I have committed. How about this for a thought! What do you think would happen is God did not forgive you about the thoughts you had just today? Good, you got the point! We should always be in a position to ask for forgiveness because God is always in a position to give forgiveness.
In closing, in order to open up some of those Kingdom doors in Heaven, you must forgive. Whether it be peace, healing, prosperity, victory..etc. It will not happen if you do not forgive.
Abba’s Ambassador,
Min. Calvin Calhoun, Jr.
Instructions on Prayer pt 2
Today’s Focus: Instructions on Prayer pt 2
Scripture: Matthew 6:9-13
Greetings Kingdom Citizens
If you are here today and able to read this! Get ready because your prayer list and prayer life is about to change. We pray this prayer everyday and teach our children this prayer and what is sad is do we fully know the meaning of each of these verses. Today we will discuss each of these scriptures to understand exactly what you are praying for.
Verse 9 – Acknowledgement of God the Father
When you enter a throne room you always first acknowledge the King so you acknowledge God the Father first. He is the Creator and the reason for your very existence. We were just a lump of clay until He breathed the breath of life into us and made us a living soul. Next you greet the King and say: Hallowed be thy name. This is to acknowledge that He is the Holy of Holies. His name is Holy and by that name no other person should be called God. We loosely call people the god of rap, hip-hop, t.v., shoe polish. This is disrespectful to God and he considers it an abomination to do so. Only He is worthy to be called the Almighty God and Heavenly Father.
Verse 10 – The Kingdom and His Will
The Kingdom of Heaven was lost in the garden when Adam and Eve sinned in the Garden. In other words, the garden was God’s perfect order and exactly what God had intended for His children. But His children messed that up. That is why when Jesus came to Earth, He said repent for the Kingdom of Heaven is at hand. Now we are waiting for the Kingdom to return so we pray that His Kingdom come and His Will be done on Earth as it is in Heaven. The same things He has done in Heaven we should want for Earth. So many times we do what we want to do and try to justify it by saying well God told me so and He did not say anything. His Will for us is paramount over our will for what we want to do. That is why so many of us are spiritually displaced (Hallelujah!). Line up with God’s Will and pray that He does for you on Earth what He has already done in Heaven.
Verse 11 – Another Day
Thank God for this ministry, because everyday I get up to get the Word from God to give to everyone and He blesses and grants me that request everyday. He has blessed all of us with the ability to wake up and breathe another day. In addition, everyday you have looked in your email, the Word of God is there. Everyday you walk around your home, the Word of God is there. It is your choice to read it or not. Our daily bread is not physical food, it is the Word of God. We should eat the Word everyday just like we eat natural food and feed our spirit. So many of us are spiritually anorexic and our spirit is starving for the Word of God. Feed your spirit the Bread of Life, The Word of God!
Verse 12 – Forgiveness
This is a beautiful statement because we are asking God to forgive our debts and sins, but a lot of us run through this scripture and miss the most important part “As we forgive our debtors”. Yes, you are asking God to forgive you just like you forgave others. You must ask forgiveness of people you have wronged and forgive people who have done you wrong. If you do so, your Father in Heaven will also forgive you.
Verse 13 – Deliverance from Temptation
First, let’s establish temptation is all around. The temptation is not the sin, it is the yielding to the temptation that is the sin. That is why satan tempted Jesus in the wilderness, but Jesus did not yield to the temptation. In this verse, we say deliver us from evil. You are asking God to deliver us from the sin we have committed and also the evil we can not see. Finally, the last part is the acknowledgement that God is the King of the Kingdom of Heaven and He possesses all the Power and the Glory Forever. What a wonderful acknowledgement to a King who is truly worthy of all the praise.
When we pray, Jesus said do not use vain repetitions! He said this because you know not what you truly are asking. We need to know what the Lord’s prayer means and we need to teach our children what it means. So many of us were taught the prayer and never understood it’s full meaning. God wants your prayers to be sincere and from the heart and not some vain repetition you just keep saying because you think you are supposed to. Pray what you ask of the Father and if it is in His Will He will grant it in His Time! The Kingdom of God is coming back soon, are you ready?
At Our Father’s Service,
Min. Calvin Calhoun, Jr.
Scripture: Matthew 6:9-13
Greetings Kingdom Citizens
If you are here today and able to read this! Get ready because your prayer list and prayer life is about to change. We pray this prayer everyday and teach our children this prayer and what is sad is do we fully know the meaning of each of these verses. Today we will discuss each of these scriptures to understand exactly what you are praying for.
Verse 9 – Acknowledgement of God the Father
When you enter a throne room you always first acknowledge the King so you acknowledge God the Father first. He is the Creator and the reason for your very existence. We were just a lump of clay until He breathed the breath of life into us and made us a living soul. Next you greet the King and say: Hallowed be thy name. This is to acknowledge that He is the Holy of Holies. His name is Holy and by that name no other person should be called God. We loosely call people the god of rap, hip-hop, t.v., shoe polish. This is disrespectful to God and he considers it an abomination to do so. Only He is worthy to be called the Almighty God and Heavenly Father.
Verse 10 – The Kingdom and His Will
The Kingdom of Heaven was lost in the garden when Adam and Eve sinned in the Garden. In other words, the garden was God’s perfect order and exactly what God had intended for His children. But His children messed that up. That is why when Jesus came to Earth, He said repent for the Kingdom of Heaven is at hand. Now we are waiting for the Kingdom to return so we pray that His Kingdom come and His Will be done on Earth as it is in Heaven. The same things He has done in Heaven we should want for Earth. So many times we do what we want to do and try to justify it by saying well God told me so and He did not say anything. His Will for us is paramount over our will for what we want to do. That is why so many of us are spiritually displaced (Hallelujah!). Line up with God’s Will and pray that He does for you on Earth what He has already done in Heaven.
Verse 11 – Another Day
Thank God for this ministry, because everyday I get up to get the Word from God to give to everyone and He blesses and grants me that request everyday. He has blessed all of us with the ability to wake up and breathe another day. In addition, everyday you have looked in your email, the Word of God is there. Everyday you walk around your home, the Word of God is there. It is your choice to read it or not. Our daily bread is not physical food, it is the Word of God. We should eat the Word everyday just like we eat natural food and feed our spirit. So many of us are spiritually anorexic and our spirit is starving for the Word of God. Feed your spirit the Bread of Life, The Word of God!
Verse 12 – Forgiveness
This is a beautiful statement because we are asking God to forgive our debts and sins, but a lot of us run through this scripture and miss the most important part “As we forgive our debtors”. Yes, you are asking God to forgive you just like you forgave others. You must ask forgiveness of people you have wronged and forgive people who have done you wrong. If you do so, your Father in Heaven will also forgive you.
Verse 13 – Deliverance from Temptation
First, let’s establish temptation is all around. The temptation is not the sin, it is the yielding to the temptation that is the sin. That is why satan tempted Jesus in the wilderness, but Jesus did not yield to the temptation. In this verse, we say deliver us from evil. You are asking God to deliver us from the sin we have committed and also the evil we can not see. Finally, the last part is the acknowledgement that God is the King of the Kingdom of Heaven and He possesses all the Power and the Glory Forever. What a wonderful acknowledgement to a King who is truly worthy of all the praise.
When we pray, Jesus said do not use vain repetitions! He said this because you know not what you truly are asking. We need to know what the Lord’s prayer means and we need to teach our children what it means. So many of us were taught the prayer and never understood it’s full meaning. God wants your prayers to be sincere and from the heart and not some vain repetition you just keep saying because you think you are supposed to. Pray what you ask of the Father and if it is in His Will He will grant it in His Time! The Kingdom of God is coming back soon, are you ready?
At Our Father’s Service,
Min. Calvin Calhoun, Jr.
Friday, January 30, 2009
Instructions on Prayer pt 1
The Good News (Gospel) According to Matthew
Today’s Focus: Instructions on Prayer pt 1
Scripture: Matthew 6:5-8
Greetings Kingdom Citizens
The next 2 messages will be the most important aspect of Kingdom life on Earth. Communication with the government in Heaven and that is called prayer. Prayer is the way you give God permission to intervene on Earth from Heaven. I know that last statement may have confused you but very quickly let’s explain. The entire universe (Heaven and Earth) belong to God. He owns it! Now, the Earth he leased to His children to maintain it and uphold the standards He has set. So because He gave authority over Earth to His children and He is Holy, then He must have permission from His children to intervene on Earth. That is why the scripture says man should pray without ceasing because prayer is giving God permission to intervene. So if you want God to keep intervening you better keep on praying. Now about prayer!
First order! We are instructed not to be like the hypocrites and pray for a show to the world. Ok! Praying in a worship service is not what Jesus is talking about if it is done sincerely and from the heart. But what He is saying is not to pray for a show! See when you do it for a show then your prayer is null and void and the reward you were seeking from men is given to you. But look at how Jesus says we should communicate with the government. In secret! Because the Father is in secret then you should come to Him in secret and He will bless you openly. When you are at work, you do not have to go hide and pray! You can go into the closet of your mind and pray and no one ever has to know and then when God makes things happen then you know who it made it happen! Now the next statement is going to send you for a loop!
You should never pray for things!
I will go into more detail about this statement in the next email but look at verses 7 and 8. See we think if we hold a long prayer with many words, we think that we will be heard and God will answer but look at what Jesus calls that “vain repetitions”. The reason why you do not pray for things is because of verse 8. God knows what things you have need of before you ask Him. So it is pointless to pray for things when He knows what you need. You are wasting your time and His. So in the next message we are going to see what are we to exactly pray for. See when you know how to pray then you can get God to work for you in the exact place that you are in. Lord give me a house or a car or a man or a woman is a wasted prayer!
So what are you supposed to ask for? Stay Tuned
Abba’s Ambassador,
Min. Calvin Calhoun, Jr.
Today’s Focus: Instructions on Prayer pt 1
Scripture: Matthew 6:5-8
Greetings Kingdom Citizens
The next 2 messages will be the most important aspect of Kingdom life on Earth. Communication with the government in Heaven and that is called prayer. Prayer is the way you give God permission to intervene on Earth from Heaven. I know that last statement may have confused you but very quickly let’s explain. The entire universe (Heaven and Earth) belong to God. He owns it! Now, the Earth he leased to His children to maintain it and uphold the standards He has set. So because He gave authority over Earth to His children and He is Holy, then He must have permission from His children to intervene on Earth. That is why the scripture says man should pray without ceasing because prayer is giving God permission to intervene. So if you want God to keep intervening you better keep on praying. Now about prayer!
First order! We are instructed not to be like the hypocrites and pray for a show to the world. Ok! Praying in a worship service is not what Jesus is talking about if it is done sincerely and from the heart. But what He is saying is not to pray for a show! See when you do it for a show then your prayer is null and void and the reward you were seeking from men is given to you. But look at how Jesus says we should communicate with the government. In secret! Because the Father is in secret then you should come to Him in secret and He will bless you openly. When you are at work, you do not have to go hide and pray! You can go into the closet of your mind and pray and no one ever has to know and then when God makes things happen then you know who it made it happen! Now the next statement is going to send you for a loop!
You should never pray for things!
I will go into more detail about this statement in the next email but look at verses 7 and 8. See we think if we hold a long prayer with many words, we think that we will be heard and God will answer but look at what Jesus calls that “vain repetitions”. The reason why you do not pray for things is because of verse 8. God knows what things you have need of before you ask Him. So it is pointless to pray for things when He knows what you need. You are wasting your time and His. So in the next message we are going to see what are we to exactly pray for. See when you know how to pray then you can get God to work for you in the exact place that you are in. Lord give me a house or a car or a man or a woman is a wasted prayer!
So what are you supposed to ask for? Stay Tuned
Abba’s Ambassador,
Min. Calvin Calhoun, Jr.
Wednesday, January 28, 2009
Deeds
Scripture: Matthew 6:1-4
Greetings Kingdom Citizens:
When you do a deed or do something for God, it should be done with a cheerful heart but also with a silent mouth. Many people want you to know what they do so they can get recognition and all they will get from God is the recognition from men. That is their reward. But when you do it in secret without blowing the trumpet and sounding the alarms then God blesses you openly. Question!What good does it do you to broadcast that you help one of your sisters or brothers? When you broadcast it, you are looking for approval from men. We have stated this before in this ministry that giving is what we should do freely because it is what we naturally do as citizens of the Kingdom of God. We do not do it because we look for recognition, but we do it because we are supposed to and that helps keep us in right position with God to help us keep our pipe clear to receive blessings from the Father. When we send these messages out, I do not look for approval from men. I do not even preach for hand claps or hooping and hollering. I give the Word of God freely and pray that someone else gets blessed just like I did when I received it. This ministry has been blessed by God because we do and speak what God has given us. We do not sugar-coat it or try to make people feel good. We let the Word of God do that! The Word convicts and confirms God’s promises to us. That which you do in secret, God bless openly!
Abba’s Ambassador, Min. Calvin Calhoun, Jr.
Greetings Kingdom Citizens:
When you do a deed or do something for God, it should be done with a cheerful heart but also with a silent mouth. Many people want you to know what they do so they can get recognition and all they will get from God is the recognition from men. That is their reward. But when you do it in secret without blowing the trumpet and sounding the alarms then God blesses you openly. Question!What good does it do you to broadcast that you help one of your sisters or brothers? When you broadcast it, you are looking for approval from men. We have stated this before in this ministry that giving is what we should do freely because it is what we naturally do as citizens of the Kingdom of God. We do not do it because we look for recognition, but we do it because we are supposed to and that helps keep us in right position with God to help us keep our pipe clear to receive blessings from the Father. When we send these messages out, I do not look for approval from men. I do not even preach for hand claps or hooping and hollering. I give the Word of God freely and pray that someone else gets blessed just like I did when I received it. This ministry has been blessed by God because we do and speak what God has given us. We do not sugar-coat it or try to make people feel good. We let the Word of God do that! The Word convicts and confirms God’s promises to us. That which you do in secret, God bless openly!
Abba’s Ambassador, Min. Calvin Calhoun, Jr.
Love Your Enemies
Scripture: Matthew 5:43-48
Greetings Kingdom Citizens:
I know this is hard but like the last e-mail it is not impossible. Jesus tells us why we should love our enemies. Look at verse 45! That you may be the children of the Father in heaven. Now if you do not love your enemies then clearly Jesus is saying that you are not a child of God! Now the next statement by Jesus! He (God) makes the sun rise and the rain fall on the just and unjust. Ok! This may seem unfair but we know that all things work together for the good of those who love the Lord. So yes we will have some time period where it seems like we may struggle but we know through the power of the Holy Spirit we will overcome. Struggles are there to strengthen you and your faith. When you love your enemies, you develop a patience and when your enemies see you not responding and see you controlling the circumstance through love and patience and that heaps coals of fire on their head and you stay cool as a cucumber. What a picture! But you have to practice it and learn how to do it. One thing we have a problem as a group of believers is that we are so quick to speak and not quick to listen and that will, many times, prevent a situation from escalating.Jesus then goes on to say what good is it to love those which love you because even the publicans and sinners do that. In addition, what good is it to only salute those who you know only because the publicans and sinners do that. Now this is a funny situation. Question! Do you speak to those who you do not even know? Whether it be hello or ask how are you doing? The point is, is to speak to those who you do not know because you never know if it will lend itself to a ministry time and a time to witness. Finally, Jesus ends with be ye therefore perfect, even as your Father….. Now Jesus knows that you will not be perfect, but you should strive with your heart to be that way. See, God cares about the heart! The perfection comes from the desire of the heart to do the right thing.
Abba’s Ambassador, Min. Calvin Calhoun, Jr.
Greetings Kingdom Citizens:
I know this is hard but like the last e-mail it is not impossible. Jesus tells us why we should love our enemies. Look at verse 45! That you may be the children of the Father in heaven. Now if you do not love your enemies then clearly Jesus is saying that you are not a child of God! Now the next statement by Jesus! He (God) makes the sun rise and the rain fall on the just and unjust. Ok! This may seem unfair but we know that all things work together for the good of those who love the Lord. So yes we will have some time period where it seems like we may struggle but we know through the power of the Holy Spirit we will overcome. Struggles are there to strengthen you and your faith. When you love your enemies, you develop a patience and when your enemies see you not responding and see you controlling the circumstance through love and patience and that heaps coals of fire on their head and you stay cool as a cucumber. What a picture! But you have to practice it and learn how to do it. One thing we have a problem as a group of believers is that we are so quick to speak and not quick to listen and that will, many times, prevent a situation from escalating.Jesus then goes on to say what good is it to love those which love you because even the publicans and sinners do that. In addition, what good is it to only salute those who you know only because the publicans and sinners do that. Now this is a funny situation. Question! Do you speak to those who you do not even know? Whether it be hello or ask how are you doing? The point is, is to speak to those who you do not know because you never know if it will lend itself to a ministry time and a time to witness. Finally, Jesus ends with be ye therefore perfect, even as your Father….. Now Jesus knows that you will not be perfect, but you should strive with your heart to be that way. See, God cares about the heart! The perfection comes from the desire of the heart to do the right thing.
Abba’s Ambassador, Min. Calvin Calhoun, Jr.
Sunday, January 25, 2009
Ambassador
Today’s Focus: Who Are You Really? Part 3 - Ambassador
Scripture: John 8:28, 29; John 12:44-50; 2 Corinthians 5:20
Greetings Kingdom Citizens
I love this title because this title destroys all the need for debate about God’s Word. Jesus when he was on Earth was The Kingdom of God’s Ambassador. He was the only Ambassador when He was on Earth. Why do you ask? Because He was the only one who had the connection to the government which is the Holy Spirit. Remember when Jesus was baptized, they saw the Holy Spirit descending like a dove upon Him. Now when Jesus made His first public statement, Matthew 4:17, He said Repent for the Kingdom of Heaven is at hand. So, the government of God is back on Earth. Now that is the true good news (Gospel). Let’s look at the title Ambassador. Now of course Paul says in 2 Corinthians 5:20 that we are Ambassadors of Christ. But Jesus defined the role of Ambassador in the above scriptures. But to understand that you must know the role of an Ambassador. Let’s look!
In the United States, we have a President and in his cabinet is the Secretary of State. The Secretary of State is responsible for the Ambassadors to the Foreign Nations. So the commands flow from the President to the Secretary of State to the Ambassadors. Now an Ambassador never states their opinion. Their messages are always prescribed or pre-written. They always say this, “My government’s position is”. So and Ambassador speaks the mind of the President to the nations. An ambassador represents the nation when they are in a foreign country. The President represents the people’s vote. So that is why you are an Ambassador, because you represent the Kingdom of God in a foreign land, Earth. When you speak, your opinion should never come out. You should only speak what the government tells you and that is found in the Constitution of the Kingdom of God, The Bible! This is so practical I pray somebody is getting it. So when it comes to political issues, you as an Ambassador do not think, you only speak what the Kingdom of God says. And if someone has a problem with it, they need to take it up with the King. See, no need to debate, just speak the Word of God and leave it alone. Funny when Ambassadors fail to do their job, they are recalled and all of their powers are stripped from them. Hmm! So are you truly an Ambassador of the Kingdom or an imposter?
Jesus in the above scriptures defines for us in His own words how He was an Ambassador for the Kingdom of God on Earth. And if you are saved and filled with the Holy Ghost, are you? Or are you parading around like you have power and your life says otherwise?
Abba’s Ambassador,
Min. Calvin Calhoun, Jr.
Scripture: John 8:28, 29; John 12:44-50; 2 Corinthians 5:20
Greetings Kingdom Citizens
I love this title because this title destroys all the need for debate about God’s Word. Jesus when he was on Earth was The Kingdom of God’s Ambassador. He was the only Ambassador when He was on Earth. Why do you ask? Because He was the only one who had the connection to the government which is the Holy Spirit. Remember when Jesus was baptized, they saw the Holy Spirit descending like a dove upon Him. Now when Jesus made His first public statement, Matthew 4:17, He said Repent for the Kingdom of Heaven is at hand. So, the government of God is back on Earth. Now that is the true good news (Gospel). Let’s look at the title Ambassador. Now of course Paul says in 2 Corinthians 5:20 that we are Ambassadors of Christ. But Jesus defined the role of Ambassador in the above scriptures. But to understand that you must know the role of an Ambassador. Let’s look!
In the United States, we have a President and in his cabinet is the Secretary of State. The Secretary of State is responsible for the Ambassadors to the Foreign Nations. So the commands flow from the President to the Secretary of State to the Ambassadors. Now an Ambassador never states their opinion. Their messages are always prescribed or pre-written. They always say this, “My government’s position is”. So and Ambassador speaks the mind of the President to the nations. An ambassador represents the nation when they are in a foreign country. The President represents the people’s vote. So that is why you are an Ambassador, because you represent the Kingdom of God in a foreign land, Earth. When you speak, your opinion should never come out. You should only speak what the government tells you and that is found in the Constitution of the Kingdom of God, The Bible! This is so practical I pray somebody is getting it. So when it comes to political issues, you as an Ambassador do not think, you only speak what the Kingdom of God says. And if someone has a problem with it, they need to take it up with the King. See, no need to debate, just speak the Word of God and leave it alone. Funny when Ambassadors fail to do their job, they are recalled and all of their powers are stripped from them. Hmm! So are you truly an Ambassador of the Kingdom or an imposter?
Jesus in the above scriptures defines for us in His own words how He was an Ambassador for the Kingdom of God on Earth. And if you are saved and filled with the Holy Ghost, are you? Or are you parading around like you have power and your life says otherwise?
Abba’s Ambassador,
Min. Calvin Calhoun, Jr.
Sons Not Servants
Today’s Focus: Who Are You Really? Son of God, Not a Servant
Scripture: John 1:12,13; John 15:13-15
Greetings Citizens:
The next title God gave you is son of God. Now the religious Christians calls us servants of the Lord and that is not what Jesus nor the Father called you. But let’s look at these scriptures and get some clarification. Let’s get a foundation.
We are all born from God the Father. So in actuality you are a spirit in a fleshly mold so that you can operate on Earth. Second, if God gave birth to you then you are His sons. Spirits have no gender so that is why we are all called sons. Now let’s look at the scripture for some in depth revelation:
John 1:12-13 – Sons of God
12But as many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name: 13Which were born, not of blood, nor of the will of the flesh, nor of the will of man, but of God.
So we see here that those who receive Jesus and accept them He will give them power (Holy Spirit) to become the sons of God. In other words, to come back to who God originally made you to be. And as you read further you see even though you are flesh and blood on Earth, you were not born that way! I know it is loaded but hang on. You were born from God, so you are spiritual first, flesh second. Here is a revelation, your flesh is your legal house to live in on Earth so that you can administrate the Kingdom’s Will on Earth. That is why God had to get into a body in order to reconcile us back to Him. By the way His name was Jesus! See you have to have the basics down in order to understand how things work between the natural and the spiritual. This is deep but needs to be understood by the saints
John 15:13-15 – Sons and not Servants
Now I do not know about you but whatever Jesus says, that’s it so look at this scripture. Jesus says Himself, I call you NOT servants but friends. Ok! Here is a revelation if you did not know this. Jesus is your Big Brother as well as your Lord and Savior. You reverence Him as Lord and Savior but He still is your Big Brother. Here’s a question, Who is His Heavenly Father? So, who is your Heavenly Father? Enough said. Jesus calls Himself Son and God, Father. So, God does not want religion, He wants relationship. Now look at what Jesus said about the servant. The servant knoweth NOT what the Lord does. So how many of us are servants instead of sons? You must ask yourself which one are you? Do you know the mind of the Father?
Abba’s Ambassador,
Min. Calvin Calhoun, Jr.
Scripture: John 1:12,13; John 15:13-15
Greetings Citizens:
The next title God gave you is son of God. Now the religious Christians calls us servants of the Lord and that is not what Jesus nor the Father called you. But let’s look at these scriptures and get some clarification. Let’s get a foundation.
We are all born from God the Father. So in actuality you are a spirit in a fleshly mold so that you can operate on Earth. Second, if God gave birth to you then you are His sons. Spirits have no gender so that is why we are all called sons. Now let’s look at the scripture for some in depth revelation:
John 1:12-13 – Sons of God
12But as many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name: 13Which were born, not of blood, nor of the will of the flesh, nor of the will of man, but of God.
So we see here that those who receive Jesus and accept them He will give them power (Holy Spirit) to become the sons of God. In other words, to come back to who God originally made you to be. And as you read further you see even though you are flesh and blood on Earth, you were not born that way! I know it is loaded but hang on. You were born from God, so you are spiritual first, flesh second. Here is a revelation, your flesh is your legal house to live in on Earth so that you can administrate the Kingdom’s Will on Earth. That is why God had to get into a body in order to reconcile us back to Him. By the way His name was Jesus! See you have to have the basics down in order to understand how things work between the natural and the spiritual. This is deep but needs to be understood by the saints
John 15:13-15 – Sons and not Servants
Now I do not know about you but whatever Jesus says, that’s it so look at this scripture. Jesus says Himself, I call you NOT servants but friends. Ok! Here is a revelation if you did not know this. Jesus is your Big Brother as well as your Lord and Savior. You reverence Him as Lord and Savior but He still is your Big Brother. Here’s a question, Who is His Heavenly Father? So, who is your Heavenly Father? Enough said. Jesus calls Himself Son and God, Father. So, God does not want religion, He wants relationship. Now look at what Jesus said about the servant. The servant knoweth NOT what the Lord does. So how many of us are servants instead of sons? You must ask yourself which one are you? Do you know the mind of the Father?
Abba’s Ambassador,
Min. Calvin Calhoun, Jr.
Friday, January 23, 2009
Who Are Your Really - Kings and Priests
Today’s Focus: Who Are You Really? Pt 1: Kings and Priests
Scripture: Exodus 19:5; 1 Peter 2:9; Genesis 1:26
Greetings Kingdom Citizens:
This might be the most important foundation you will need to understand how to operate in the Kingdom of God. You must first have an identity. Many of us are living up to what man calls you and not who God called you to be. So if you know who you are and think that way, then you become that way. Here is what God called you. So one of titles you have is King and Priest. Now the important thing is not to separate the two and you will see later why. Now let’s look at these two sets of scriptures:
Exodus 19:5 – Kingdom of Priests
First you have to break them apart to see how they work together. A Kingdom is the governing influence of a KING over DOMain impacting it with His Will. So, the Lord said if you keep my covenant you will be a KINGDOM of Priests. So your job is the set the standard (King) for the Earth (Domain) and impact it with God’s Will. Now a King has dominion or royal power over the territory. God gave Earth to His children to have dominion over it (Genesis 1:26). So in turn we should set the standard (King) and have royal power (Dominion) to subdue it and control it. Now for the Priests. A priest is the spiritual representative of God on Earth. Are we not all spiritual representatives of God on Earth. Now Here is the connection!
Look back at Adam in the Garden. Adam had no man to rule over him on Earth, so Adam was a King on Earth. Adam was also the spiritual representative of God on Earth, so Adam was a priest. Now does it make sense! That is why God said, I will make you a Kingdom of Priest and a Holy Nation! Let’s look at the second scripture!
1 Peter 2:9 – Royal Priesthood
Now this is new testament of course and God still calls you a Kingdom of Priests and a Holy Nation! Look at the words! Royal is King! Priesthood is Priest or spiritual. Need I say any more!
In closing this is how God wants His Kingdom of Priests to work! Please pay attention:
God wants you (Priests) to set the standard (King) on Earth (Domain) by impacting (Dominion) it with God’s Will.
Next Message: God called you a Son of God
Abba’s Ambassador,
Min. Calvin Calhoun, Jr.
Scripture: Exodus 19:5; 1 Peter 2:9; Genesis 1:26
Greetings Kingdom Citizens:
This might be the most important foundation you will need to understand how to operate in the Kingdom of God. You must first have an identity. Many of us are living up to what man calls you and not who God called you to be. So if you know who you are and think that way, then you become that way. Here is what God called you. So one of titles you have is King and Priest. Now the important thing is not to separate the two and you will see later why. Now let’s look at these two sets of scriptures:
Exodus 19:5 – Kingdom of Priests
First you have to break them apart to see how they work together. A Kingdom is the governing influence of a KING over DOMain impacting it with His Will. So, the Lord said if you keep my covenant you will be a KINGDOM of Priests. So your job is the set the standard (King) for the Earth (Domain) and impact it with God’s Will. Now a King has dominion or royal power over the territory. God gave Earth to His children to have dominion over it (Genesis 1:26). So in turn we should set the standard (King) and have royal power (Dominion) to subdue it and control it. Now for the Priests. A priest is the spiritual representative of God on Earth. Are we not all spiritual representatives of God on Earth. Now Here is the connection!
Look back at Adam in the Garden. Adam had no man to rule over him on Earth, so Adam was a King on Earth. Adam was also the spiritual representative of God on Earth, so Adam was a priest. Now does it make sense! That is why God said, I will make you a Kingdom of Priest and a Holy Nation! Let’s look at the second scripture!
1 Peter 2:9 – Royal Priesthood
Now this is new testament of course and God still calls you a Kingdom of Priests and a Holy Nation! Look at the words! Royal is King! Priesthood is Priest or spiritual. Need I say any more!
In closing this is how God wants His Kingdom of Priests to work! Please pay attention:
God wants you (Priests) to set the standard (King) on Earth (Domain) by impacting (Dominion) it with God’s Will.
Next Message: God called you a Son of God
Abba’s Ambassador,
Min. Calvin Calhoun, Jr.
Thursday, January 22, 2009
Special: Truth Behind the Title: Christian
Special Focus: The Truth behind the Title Christian
Scripture: Within the Text
Greetings:
This might raise a lot of eye brows and if you do not read your Bible, then I expect you to have a problem with this message. Religious people are going to fight this message but that is alright. Let them stay with their religion, I am welcoming you to Kingdom thinking and living. I preached a sermon last Saturday “Who is the Real You?” at a youth prayer breakfast and at the end I noticed that the Holy Spirit never said you were a Christian. I asked God why is that the case? And His answer was so clear and it is in the scriptures. First, the word Christian appears 3 times in the entire Bible! So for us to call each other that and for it to only appear 3 times should raise some questions in your mind. Second, the first time it appears is in Acts after Jesus ascended back to the Father! So from Genesis to Acts, Christian was not mentioned. So Jesus did not call you that and God did not call you that so who did?
Well let’s investigate and look!
First Occurrence of the Word Christian – Acts 11:22-26
So the first time the disciples were called Christians was at Antioch. So they were called that by man. Jesus did not call the disciples Christians. So man gave us the title of Christian. Now I preached Saturday about what God did call you and that email will follow this one. The problem with the church is that the church has lost it’s identity and the church is conforming to what man has perceived them to be and not what God has called them to be. So man developed what they thought a Christian was based off of what they saw in the disciples. That is all well in good but like men as time progress, things change and we change to fit the times. And this is exactly where your identity gets messed up as it relates to the word Christian. Can we safely say this is where denominations come into play? I believe this and I believe that. Now some will say that is why I go to a non-denominational church! But if your church is a Kingdom preaching, Lord Jesus Teaching, Bible believing church then we are all the same. So do not let the devil divide us where we all are the same.
Second Occurrence of the Word Christian – Acts 26:28
Here we see Paul and King Agrippa discussing about the doctrine of Jesus Christ. And we see King Agrippa tell Paul that he almost persuaded Him to become a Christian. Now please keep in mind that from Antioch to now the term Christian had spread throughout the Empire and I am sure that King Agrippa had heard the term by the time of His encounter with Paul.
Third Occurrence of the Word Christian – 1 Peter 4:16
Now Peter writes a letter to the believers in Asia Minor and in His first letter here we see if any man suffer as a Christian let him not be ashamed but let him glorify God on this behalf. Now we will have to understand when this statement was made in order to understand why it is located here. Paul was arrested by the Roman government for spreading the Gospel of the Kingdom and teaching the Lord Jesus to the people. While under house arrest, under the leadership and guide of the Holy Spirit we get the letters like Romans, Corinthians, Galatians, Ephesians, Philippians, Colossians, Thessalonians, Timothy, Titus, Philemon. So when the disciples were first called Christians, Paul was not under house arrest yet so the title carried throughout the Roman Empire and the land. So that is why you see it mentioned in the letter from Peter, but you only see it once. So, Christian was a title given to you by man and not by God.
So, the question is, Who are you really? Stay tuned to the next email!
Abba’s Ambassador,
Min. Calvin Calhoun, Jr.
Scripture: Within the Text
Greetings:
This might raise a lot of eye brows and if you do not read your Bible, then I expect you to have a problem with this message. Religious people are going to fight this message but that is alright. Let them stay with their religion, I am welcoming you to Kingdom thinking and living. I preached a sermon last Saturday “Who is the Real You?” at a youth prayer breakfast and at the end I noticed that the Holy Spirit never said you were a Christian. I asked God why is that the case? And His answer was so clear and it is in the scriptures. First, the word Christian appears 3 times in the entire Bible! So for us to call each other that and for it to only appear 3 times should raise some questions in your mind. Second, the first time it appears is in Acts after Jesus ascended back to the Father! So from Genesis to Acts, Christian was not mentioned. So Jesus did not call you that and God did not call you that so who did?
Well let’s investigate and look!
First Occurrence of the Word Christian – Acts 11:22-26
So the first time the disciples were called Christians was at Antioch. So they were called that by man. Jesus did not call the disciples Christians. So man gave us the title of Christian. Now I preached Saturday about what God did call you and that email will follow this one. The problem with the church is that the church has lost it’s identity and the church is conforming to what man has perceived them to be and not what God has called them to be. So man developed what they thought a Christian was based off of what they saw in the disciples. That is all well in good but like men as time progress, things change and we change to fit the times. And this is exactly where your identity gets messed up as it relates to the word Christian. Can we safely say this is where denominations come into play? I believe this and I believe that. Now some will say that is why I go to a non-denominational church! But if your church is a Kingdom preaching, Lord Jesus Teaching, Bible believing church then we are all the same. So do not let the devil divide us where we all are the same.
Second Occurrence of the Word Christian – Acts 26:28
Here we see Paul and King Agrippa discussing about the doctrine of Jesus Christ. And we see King Agrippa tell Paul that he almost persuaded Him to become a Christian. Now please keep in mind that from Antioch to now the term Christian had spread throughout the Empire and I am sure that King Agrippa had heard the term by the time of His encounter with Paul.
Third Occurrence of the Word Christian – 1 Peter 4:16
Now Peter writes a letter to the believers in Asia Minor and in His first letter here we see if any man suffer as a Christian let him not be ashamed but let him glorify God on this behalf. Now we will have to understand when this statement was made in order to understand why it is located here. Paul was arrested by the Roman government for spreading the Gospel of the Kingdom and teaching the Lord Jesus to the people. While under house arrest, under the leadership and guide of the Holy Spirit we get the letters like Romans, Corinthians, Galatians, Ephesians, Philippians, Colossians, Thessalonians, Timothy, Titus, Philemon. So when the disciples were first called Christians, Paul was not under house arrest yet so the title carried throughout the Roman Empire and the land. So that is why you see it mentioned in the letter from Peter, but you only see it once. So, Christian was a title given to you by man and not by God.
So, the question is, Who are you really? Stay tuned to the next email!
Abba’s Ambassador,
Min. Calvin Calhoun, Jr.
Rendering Good
Today’s Focus: Rendering Good
Scripture: Matthew 5:38-42
Greetings Kingdom Citizens
Now I know many of us have problems with this scripture right here. Now we have heard of an eye for an eye but look how Jesus wants us to respond.
1. When someone smites you, turn the other cheek
2. When someone sues you, give them what they want
3. When someone asks you to go a mile, go two
4. When someone asks you or borrow something from you, do not turn them away
Kingdom Key #2 - Give
To live in the Kingdom of Heaven you must do the opposite of what you naturally would do in those situations. You do not render evil with evil! You render good instead of evil. See the power of God can always overcome the power of darkness and Satan. So many times we want to react to situations instead of letting God give us direction. The problem we have is we are so quick to say “that could not be me”. But if you are a Kingdom Citizen and you claim to be a son of God, then that is what you should do. Jesus did things that we may consider unreasonable but not impossible!
Abba’s Ambassador,
Min. Calvin Calhoun, Jr.
Scripture: Matthew 5:38-42
Greetings Kingdom Citizens
Now I know many of us have problems with this scripture right here. Now we have heard of an eye for an eye but look how Jesus wants us to respond.
1. When someone smites you, turn the other cheek
2. When someone sues you, give them what they want
3. When someone asks you to go a mile, go two
4. When someone asks you or borrow something from you, do not turn them away
Kingdom Key #2 - Give
To live in the Kingdom of Heaven you must do the opposite of what you naturally would do in those situations. You do not render evil with evil! You render good instead of evil. See the power of God can always overcome the power of darkness and Satan. So many times we want to react to situations instead of letting God give us direction. The problem we have is we are so quick to say “that could not be me”. But if you are a Kingdom Citizen and you claim to be a son of God, then that is what you should do. Jesus did things that we may consider unreasonable but not impossible!
Abba’s Ambassador,
Min. Calvin Calhoun, Jr.
Wednesday, January 21, 2009
Oaths
Today’s Focus: Jesus on Oaths
Scripture: Matthew 5:33-37
Greetings Kingdom Citizens
Now before you read this pray……Amen. Ok, this subject can become very opinionated but we know that we are Ambassadors so we will stay away from opinions. Jesus is very clear about this subject of oaths and swearing! He says, do not do it! Now, I will speak for myself and allow the Holy Spirit to guide you in this issue. Here is my situation!
I was a member of the Florida A&M University Marching 100 Band when I was in college and it was a dream of mine to do so! Ever since I was a child I dreamed of marching in the band and when the time came, I wanted to do it all. Now I had a choice to cross-over or pledge one of the organizations in the band and I did so that I can say I did. In the midst of pledging, I took an oath to uphold the secrets of the organization. When I became part of that organization, I changed and I blame no one but myself. I became someone who God did not inspire me to be. It took ten years for me to realize what I did back then was wrong and I denounced my ties to that organization. The band itself did not make me take an oath, but the organization within the band did, let me make that very clear! I made a choice to do something against the will of God and because of my ignorance I sinned against Him. Now I know better!
The point here is, if you took an oath or sweared to some organization and you know who you are, you must denounce that tie. Now, as severe as that sounds, Jesus says do not take oaths nor forswear yourself. Fraternities, Sororities, Secret Societies and Organizations..etc falls in that category. Now, please keep in mind, Jesus did not keep secrets and exclude people from His ministry. He ministered to all and we can’t do that effectively if every couple of days you have to go to you meetings (frat, soror or society), but you will not attend Bible study or even read the Bible. Who are you truly serving? You can only serve one! I serve the Father, God Almighty and He has tested my serving many times. He forced me to make decisions between ministry and football games. He forced me to make decisions about ministry and riding my motorcycle with friends. He forced me to make decisions between ministry and band. If you are spending more time with the organization than with God, you are not serving God! If everything about you is frat this and soror that and lodge this and lodge that and I will only do for my frat brother or my soror sister or my lodge brother then you are not about serving God first. He made you in His image and likeness and you are His child and He does not want His child dividing themselves off from His other children. I know many of these organizations do service work in the community. Some even do it better than some churches, but the secrets and the oaths that are performed, is that right? With God it is either right or wrong? Here is a question only you can answer.
If someone came up to you and asked you a question about your organization would you tell them a lie to keep the secret of the organization or would you tell the whole truth about it and answer as a child of God?
Your allegiance should be to only one person and that is King Jesus and the Kingdom of God!
Abba’s Ambassador,
Min. Calvin Calhoun, Jr.
Scripture: Matthew 5:33-37
Greetings Kingdom Citizens
Now before you read this pray……Amen. Ok, this subject can become very opinionated but we know that we are Ambassadors so we will stay away from opinions. Jesus is very clear about this subject of oaths and swearing! He says, do not do it! Now, I will speak for myself and allow the Holy Spirit to guide you in this issue. Here is my situation!
I was a member of the Florida A&M University Marching 100 Band when I was in college and it was a dream of mine to do so! Ever since I was a child I dreamed of marching in the band and when the time came, I wanted to do it all. Now I had a choice to cross-over or pledge one of the organizations in the band and I did so that I can say I did. In the midst of pledging, I took an oath to uphold the secrets of the organization. When I became part of that organization, I changed and I blame no one but myself. I became someone who God did not inspire me to be. It took ten years for me to realize what I did back then was wrong and I denounced my ties to that organization. The band itself did not make me take an oath, but the organization within the band did, let me make that very clear! I made a choice to do something against the will of God and because of my ignorance I sinned against Him. Now I know better!
The point here is, if you took an oath or sweared to some organization and you know who you are, you must denounce that tie. Now, as severe as that sounds, Jesus says do not take oaths nor forswear yourself. Fraternities, Sororities, Secret Societies and Organizations..etc falls in that category. Now, please keep in mind, Jesus did not keep secrets and exclude people from His ministry. He ministered to all and we can’t do that effectively if every couple of days you have to go to you meetings (frat, soror or society), but you will not attend Bible study or even read the Bible. Who are you truly serving? You can only serve one! I serve the Father, God Almighty and He has tested my serving many times. He forced me to make decisions between ministry and football games. He forced me to make decisions about ministry and riding my motorcycle with friends. He forced me to make decisions between ministry and band. If you are spending more time with the organization than with God, you are not serving God! If everything about you is frat this and soror that and lodge this and lodge that and I will only do for my frat brother or my soror sister or my lodge brother then you are not about serving God first. He made you in His image and likeness and you are His child and He does not want His child dividing themselves off from His other children. I know many of these organizations do service work in the community. Some even do it better than some churches, but the secrets and the oaths that are performed, is that right? With God it is either right or wrong? Here is a question only you can answer.
If someone came up to you and asked you a question about your organization would you tell them a lie to keep the secret of the organization or would you tell the whole truth about it and answer as a child of God?
Your allegiance should be to only one person and that is King Jesus and the Kingdom of God!
Abba’s Ambassador,
Min. Calvin Calhoun, Jr.
Adultery
Today’s Focus: Adultery
Scripture: Matthew 5:27-32
Greetings Kingdom Citizens
Now, Jesus as we can see is not leaving any stone unturned. He is covering the Mosaic law (the laws that were given to Moses by God) and re-enforcing them but Jesus says something I think we need to clear up in the body of Christ. This is a common statement:
It is ok to look, but not ok to touch!
Now, the word look in this statement is another word for lust because you know that is what you are doing. And we all know that we should not touch anything that is not ours. But Jesus deals with lusting. So you actually sin when you do the above statement. Now further in the scripture Jesus says to pluck your eye out and cut your hand off. He was not meaning to do that literally! Let’s not be crazy! Let me show you this and God just revealed it to me at this moment of typing. Back in the Garden, it was the lusting of power and of the eyes and touching of the hands that lead to the fall in the Garden. As a result we were condemned to death because of their actions. Jesus is saying do not let your lusts cause you to condemn yourself to death and hell! It is better for you to avoid those things that are causing or tempting you to go against God! Now, let’s look at adultery
This is a very sad situation but all throughout television our children, as well as our adults are being shown marriage as just a fad and marriage is a sacred institution God ordained from the beginning. Adultery is when a husband or a wife lusts after another person. Noticed I did not say touch. Why? Because under lust, looking and touching are the same according to Jesus. Adultery is one of the leading causes with finances of divorce. Did you know from the beginning there was no divorce but because of the hardness of man’s heart God made a provision for divorce, but this should be our last option. If you look at the divorce rates in the U.S., it is over 50% which is devastating because many of our children are being raised in single family homes and our men are becoming effeminate (more like women). Not all are but most are. Marriage is between a man and a woman (Genesis 1:26-28) and that’s it! I do not care what man thinks or says, our King says marriage is between man and woman and I, and neither should none of you, ever debate that! Be very careful who you hang around because if they are lusting after the world, they will try to suck you in and get you to commit the very sin Jesus does not want us to commit!
Abba’s Ambassador,
Min. Calvin Calhoun, Jr.
Scripture: Matthew 5:27-32
Greetings Kingdom Citizens
Now, Jesus as we can see is not leaving any stone unturned. He is covering the Mosaic law (the laws that were given to Moses by God) and re-enforcing them but Jesus says something I think we need to clear up in the body of Christ. This is a common statement:
It is ok to look, but not ok to touch!
Now, the word look in this statement is another word for lust because you know that is what you are doing. And we all know that we should not touch anything that is not ours. But Jesus deals with lusting. So you actually sin when you do the above statement. Now further in the scripture Jesus says to pluck your eye out and cut your hand off. He was not meaning to do that literally! Let’s not be crazy! Let me show you this and God just revealed it to me at this moment of typing. Back in the Garden, it was the lusting of power and of the eyes and touching of the hands that lead to the fall in the Garden. As a result we were condemned to death because of their actions. Jesus is saying do not let your lusts cause you to condemn yourself to death and hell! It is better for you to avoid those things that are causing or tempting you to go against God! Now, let’s look at adultery
This is a very sad situation but all throughout television our children, as well as our adults are being shown marriage as just a fad and marriage is a sacred institution God ordained from the beginning. Adultery is when a husband or a wife lusts after another person. Noticed I did not say touch. Why? Because under lust, looking and touching are the same according to Jesus. Adultery is one of the leading causes with finances of divorce. Did you know from the beginning there was no divorce but because of the hardness of man’s heart God made a provision for divorce, but this should be our last option. If you look at the divorce rates in the U.S., it is over 50% which is devastating because many of our children are being raised in single family homes and our men are becoming effeminate (more like women). Not all are but most are. Marriage is between a man and a woman (Genesis 1:26-28) and that’s it! I do not care what man thinks or says, our King says marriage is between man and woman and I, and neither should none of you, ever debate that! Be very careful who you hang around because if they are lusting after the world, they will try to suck you in and get you to commit the very sin Jesus does not want us to commit!
Abba’s Ambassador,
Min. Calvin Calhoun, Jr.
Judgment and Forgiveness
Today’s Focus: Judgment and Forgiveness
Scripture: Matthew 5:21-26
Greetings Kingdom Citizens
Today we will discuss one of the “Keys of the Kingdom”. Now when we look at these scriptures we see that Jesus is quoting law from the Old Testament and stating the result of such actions. So before we do anything we need to think about the consequences of what is going to be done. Judgment is real and will happen because God promised us that. But look at verse 23! Before you bring your gift to the altar before God, you need to line up first. So if there is any offense you have committed against your brother or sister then you need to clear that up first! So the first step in petitioning God for anything, you must first line up and make sure all offenses or grudges against your fellow brother or sister is cleared up!
Kingdom Key #1 – Forgiveness
If you do not clear up those offenses then you stand under judgment and you know who runs the prison, warden satan. That is why Jesus says you will be able to come out once that is cleared up! I like verse 25! Jesus says agree quickly lest your adversary delivers you to the judge then the officer then to prison. So clear those little spats that you have up quickly so it does not mess with your righteousness with God!
At His Service,
Min. Calvin Calhoun, Jr.
Scripture: Matthew 5:21-26
Greetings Kingdom Citizens
Today we will discuss one of the “Keys of the Kingdom”. Now when we look at these scriptures we see that Jesus is quoting law from the Old Testament and stating the result of such actions. So before we do anything we need to think about the consequences of what is going to be done. Judgment is real and will happen because God promised us that. But look at verse 23! Before you bring your gift to the altar before God, you need to line up first. So if there is any offense you have committed against your brother or sister then you need to clear that up first! So the first step in petitioning God for anything, you must first line up and make sure all offenses or grudges against your fellow brother or sister is cleared up!
Kingdom Key #1 – Forgiveness
If you do not clear up those offenses then you stand under judgment and you know who runs the prison, warden satan. That is why Jesus says you will be able to come out once that is cleared up! I like verse 25! Jesus says agree quickly lest your adversary delivers you to the judge then the officer then to prison. So clear those little spats that you have up quickly so it does not mess with your righteousness with God!
At His Service,
Min. Calvin Calhoun, Jr.
Saturday, January 17, 2009
The Law and Righteousness
Today’s Focus: The Law and Righteousness
Scripture: Matthew 5:17-20
Greetings Kingdom Citizens
This is a two-part scripture and we will break it down in its respective parts. First let’s look at what Jesus says about the law.
The Law
So many “religious Christians”, not you because you are a citizen, consistently say we are not under the law but under grace. But look at what Jesus says about the law in verse 17 and 18. So based off of our Lord and Savior’s words the law still has power. Now, in every kingdom there are laws and rules. So what makes God’s kingdom so different? He judges you based off of the law and that is what he uses to establish whether you are in right-position (righteous) with Him. He grants His blessings based off of His laws and promises. So do not think that you can just live anyway and think you can just come to God casually and ask for forgiveness and go back to doing the same. So the only way you can live righteous in God’s Kingdom is that you know His laws and commandments which are found in the scriptures.
Righteousness verses Religion (verses 19-20)
The Pharisees and scribes were the religious leaders of that time. They knew the law but yet because of they thought they knew everything they could not spiritually discern the Messiah standing right in front of them. Throughout Jesus ministry you will see these guys trying to trick and trip Jesus up, but we all know what happened and if not, you will see. Now Jesus says something very important. If you break the commandments or the law and teach people to, then you are called least into the Kingdom. On the other hand, if you obey the commandments and teach others to do so, then you will be called great into the Kingdom. Now Jesus says unless your righteousness exceeds those of the scribes and Pharisees you shall not enter into the Kingdom of Heaven. I am going to explain this very carefully! Because of the teachings of the Pharisees, they were preventing people from entering the Kingdom of Heaven. Be careful who you learn from! Do not get your impression of God from anyone. You get your impression of God from God Himself. Now here is another way to look at verse 20! Unless your righteousness exceeds those of the Pharisees then you will not be able to “explore” the Kingdom of Heaven. For those of us who are saved, this is directed right at you. If your righteousness does not line up with God, then you will not be able to explore the benefits of Kingdom life. You may wonder why your life is so hard and it seems like God does not answer any of my prayers. You need to check your righteousness with God.
Abba’s Ambassador,
Min. Calvin Calhoun, Jr.
Scripture: Matthew 5:17-20
Greetings Kingdom Citizens
This is a two-part scripture and we will break it down in its respective parts. First let’s look at what Jesus says about the law.
The Law
So many “religious Christians”, not you because you are a citizen, consistently say we are not under the law but under grace. But look at what Jesus says about the law in verse 17 and 18. So based off of our Lord and Savior’s words the law still has power. Now, in every kingdom there are laws and rules. So what makes God’s kingdom so different? He judges you based off of the law and that is what he uses to establish whether you are in right-position (righteous) with Him. He grants His blessings based off of His laws and promises. So do not think that you can just live anyway and think you can just come to God casually and ask for forgiveness and go back to doing the same. So the only way you can live righteous in God’s Kingdom is that you know His laws and commandments which are found in the scriptures.
Righteousness verses Religion (verses 19-20)
The Pharisees and scribes were the religious leaders of that time. They knew the law but yet because of they thought they knew everything they could not spiritually discern the Messiah standing right in front of them. Throughout Jesus ministry you will see these guys trying to trick and trip Jesus up, but we all know what happened and if not, you will see. Now Jesus says something very important. If you break the commandments or the law and teach people to, then you are called least into the Kingdom. On the other hand, if you obey the commandments and teach others to do so, then you will be called great into the Kingdom. Now Jesus says unless your righteousness exceeds those of the scribes and Pharisees you shall not enter into the Kingdom of Heaven. I am going to explain this very carefully! Because of the teachings of the Pharisees, they were preventing people from entering the Kingdom of Heaven. Be careful who you learn from! Do not get your impression of God from anyone. You get your impression of God from God Himself. Now here is another way to look at verse 20! Unless your righteousness exceeds those of the Pharisees then you will not be able to “explore” the Kingdom of Heaven. For those of us who are saved, this is directed right at you. If your righteousness does not line up with God, then you will not be able to explore the benefits of Kingdom life. You may wonder why your life is so hard and it seems like God does not answer any of my prayers. You need to check your righteousness with God.
Abba’s Ambassador,
Min. Calvin Calhoun, Jr.
Elite of the Earth: Church
Today’s Focus: The Elite of the Earth: The Church
Scripture: Matthew 5:13-16
Greetings Kingdom Citizens
In this email dealing with being the Elite of the Earth we will deal with how we are to be the Elite on the Earth in the Church. Now we have discussed that learning how to be elite starts at home first, then how we continue to learn in God’s House and now we can take our status to the world to impact and have dominion on the Earth. Now, remember being Elite means being righteous and living under the government of the Kingdom of God and King Jesus. When you understand who you are you begin to think the same way and then you are able to bring the impact of God’s government on the Earth. Being a leader and a example of a Kingdom citizen is the most important thing you can do to further the Kingdom of God. See, when the lost see you living a life of love, peace, meekness, temperance (fruits of the Spirit) then they want to know how and then that is your chance to introduce them to the Kingdom first and the King second!
When you sin, you lose the flavor that makes you elite. Thank God for Jesus, so that we can now connect back to the Government and ask for forgiveness. You should be a vessel of light for those who are in darkness about the Kingdom. Their souls are crying out for the power they lost from the Garden and all you have to be is a vessel and live the Kingdom life and the Spirit of God will shine through and draw people to Christ.
Do not think that you are just a sinner saved by grace. You are more than that and Jesus said you are the salt of the earth and the light of the world. So be that! You can’t be that being a heathen Monday thru Saturday and thinking you can turn it on and off on Sunday.
Abba’s Ambassador,
Min. Calvin Calhoun, Jr.
Scripture: Matthew 5:13-16
Greetings Kingdom Citizens
In this email dealing with being the Elite of the Earth we will deal with how we are to be the Elite on the Earth in the Church. Now we have discussed that learning how to be elite starts at home first, then how we continue to learn in God’s House and now we can take our status to the world to impact and have dominion on the Earth. Now, remember being Elite means being righteous and living under the government of the Kingdom of God and King Jesus. When you understand who you are you begin to think the same way and then you are able to bring the impact of God’s government on the Earth. Being a leader and a example of a Kingdom citizen is the most important thing you can do to further the Kingdom of God. See, when the lost see you living a life of love, peace, meekness, temperance (fruits of the Spirit) then they want to know how and then that is your chance to introduce them to the Kingdom first and the King second!
When you sin, you lose the flavor that makes you elite. Thank God for Jesus, so that we can now connect back to the Government and ask for forgiveness. You should be a vessel of light for those who are in darkness about the Kingdom. Their souls are crying out for the power they lost from the Garden and all you have to be is a vessel and live the Kingdom life and the Spirit of God will shine through and draw people to Christ.
Do not think that you are just a sinner saved by grace. You are more than that and Jesus said you are the salt of the earth and the light of the world. So be that! You can’t be that being a heathen Monday thru Saturday and thinking you can turn it on and off on Sunday.
Abba’s Ambassador,
Min. Calvin Calhoun, Jr.
Friday, January 16, 2009
Elite of the Earth: Home
Today’s Focus: The Elite of the Earth: Home First
Scripture: Matthew 5:13-16
Greetings Kingdom Citizens
This will be a 2-part email. This is an inspiring statement but none the less very challenging for Abba’s children to follow and understand. In order to be elite or salt of the earth, it starts at home. Let’s get right to the problem and how do we solve it. Here are the questions you need to answer if you are a parent who wants their child to represent Christ and all that He stands for.
1. Have you taught your children how to pray?
2. Do you pray with your children morning and night?
3. Do you read Bible stories to your child?
4. Do you sit down and read the Bible yourself?
5. Do you make your child explain Bible scriptures and stories to you?
6. Do you go with your children to Sunday School? (Not drop off and leave)
7. Do you go with your children to Bible Study? (Not drop off and leave)
8. Do you go with your child to Worship Services? (Not drop off and leave)
9. Do you use the Bible to discipline your children when they do wrong?
10. If you look at your life now, can you say that my children see Christ in me?
Now we all have fallen short, but we have to establish a foundation for our children and ourselves. How can we expect our children to get anything out of Sunday School if we are not there neither. How can we expect our children to change their life over to God and we have not. We are teaching our children to be spiritually bi-polar. Be one-way on Sunday and be like the world on Monday thru Saturday. Sad many of us are like the world even on Sunday in church. So the question I pose to all the parents is:
What are your Priorities and are you setting a Christ-like example for your children to follow?
To our youth, I know you may have liked the above part but all of us are accountable for our own actions. When you know better you do better. So if you are the salt or elite of the Earth then you should be able to answer these questions.
1. Do I read my Bible at least 2 times a week? (Really it should be everyday)
2. Do I pray daily to God?
3. Do I obey my elders regardless if they are my family?
4. Do I go to church and try to learn something about God?
5. When I go to school, the same way I act in church and “praise the Lord”, I do at school?
6. Do I spend more time listening to music and t.v. than I do reading my Bible?
7. Do I dress appropriately for church or am I a distraction by the way I dress?
8. Are the words that come out of my mouth acceptable to Christ?
Now you have to answer the question: What are your priorities?
So in our 1st part in this email series about being the Elite we have to get it right at home, first. The church can not fix all of your problems, it starts at home with the family. If you can not answer those questions with a resounding yes then you need to re-evaluate your priorities. Who is first? God or Man?
Abba’s Ambassador,
Min. Calvin Calhoun, Jr.
Scripture: Matthew 5:13-16
Greetings Kingdom Citizens
This will be a 2-part email. This is an inspiring statement but none the less very challenging for Abba’s children to follow and understand. In order to be elite or salt of the earth, it starts at home. Let’s get right to the problem and how do we solve it. Here are the questions you need to answer if you are a parent who wants their child to represent Christ and all that He stands for.
1. Have you taught your children how to pray?
2. Do you pray with your children morning and night?
3. Do you read Bible stories to your child?
4. Do you sit down and read the Bible yourself?
5. Do you make your child explain Bible scriptures and stories to you?
6. Do you go with your children to Sunday School? (Not drop off and leave)
7. Do you go with your children to Bible Study? (Not drop off and leave)
8. Do you go with your child to Worship Services? (Not drop off and leave)
9. Do you use the Bible to discipline your children when they do wrong?
10. If you look at your life now, can you say that my children see Christ in me?
Now we all have fallen short, but we have to establish a foundation for our children and ourselves. How can we expect our children to get anything out of Sunday School if we are not there neither. How can we expect our children to change their life over to God and we have not. We are teaching our children to be spiritually bi-polar. Be one-way on Sunday and be like the world on Monday thru Saturday. Sad many of us are like the world even on Sunday in church. So the question I pose to all the parents is:
What are your Priorities and are you setting a Christ-like example for your children to follow?
To our youth, I know you may have liked the above part but all of us are accountable for our own actions. When you know better you do better. So if you are the salt or elite of the Earth then you should be able to answer these questions.
1. Do I read my Bible at least 2 times a week? (Really it should be everyday)
2. Do I pray daily to God?
3. Do I obey my elders regardless if they are my family?
4. Do I go to church and try to learn something about God?
5. When I go to school, the same way I act in church and “praise the Lord”, I do at school?
6. Do I spend more time listening to music and t.v. than I do reading my Bible?
7. Do I dress appropriately for church or am I a distraction by the way I dress?
8. Are the words that come out of my mouth acceptable to Christ?
Now you have to answer the question: What are your priorities?
So in our 1st part in this email series about being the Elite we have to get it right at home, first. The church can not fix all of your problems, it starts at home with the family. If you can not answer those questions with a resounding yes then you need to re-evaluate your priorities. Who is first? God or Man?
Abba’s Ambassador,
Min. Calvin Calhoun, Jr.
Wednesday, January 14, 2009
Peacemakers and Persecution
Today’s Focus: Peacemakers and Persecution
Scripture: Matthew 5:1-16
Greetings Kingdom Citizens
Verse 9 is a very significant verse to the Kingdom of God. Look at who the peacemakers are: The Children of God. Now last time I checked, I was a child of God so I am a peacemaker. If you are someone who keeps up confusion and mischief then are you a child of God? Based off of Jesus words in verse 9 the answer is no. Now, for many years we have been told that we are the army of the Lord. I have said it once and will say it again: Citizens do not fight! How can you be a peacemaker and be a fighter. Funny, many religious Christians are both! They claim to be peacemakers and fight in the army of the Lord. That is schizophrenia. Now the church has confused Ephesians 6. We always read this set of scriptures and never read the entire text. After Paul describes the armour of God, he gives instructions on what to do next. I can promise you this, He did not say fight! He said PRAY. See we do not fight against flesh and blood. So you do not fight against your brothers and sisters, but against wicked spirits and principalities in high places. But now I am confused brother Calvin you just said we do not fight but then you just said we fight against wicked spirits. Let me explain: You can not fight a spirit as flesh. The way you defend yourself against the enemy is with truth, the gospel, the Word of God and faith. So the armour will protect you in the fight. But you have to at least have it on and the only way you can have it on is you have a relationship with the owner. The owner if you did not know is our Heavenly Father.
Persecution
There is no doubt that the righteous of God will suffer persecution. Funny when the disciples suffered persecution they rejoiced because they knew and remembered what Jesus told them would happen if they followed him. When you choose to follow Christ, people will lie on you, persecute you for mentioning the name of Jesus. But, remember you are a citizen protected by the angels. Does that mean that some will still die because of the name of Jesus? Yes. But, do not fear death because the Bible says absent from the body, is present with the Lord!
Finally, look at verse 12 and see the blessing for being persecuted. Your reward is in Heaven where no man can corrupt it or even steal it. So stay strong my brother and sister in Christ. One thing I can tell you when you start to make the change for the Kingdom, some of the first people to turn on you is your family. Do not be discouraged but stay the course and be strong in the power of His might.
Abba’s Ambassador,
Min. Calvin Calhoun, Jr.
Scripture: Matthew 5:1-16
Greetings Kingdom Citizens
Verse 9 is a very significant verse to the Kingdom of God. Look at who the peacemakers are: The Children of God. Now last time I checked, I was a child of God so I am a peacemaker. If you are someone who keeps up confusion and mischief then are you a child of God? Based off of Jesus words in verse 9 the answer is no. Now, for many years we have been told that we are the army of the Lord. I have said it once and will say it again: Citizens do not fight! How can you be a peacemaker and be a fighter. Funny, many religious Christians are both! They claim to be peacemakers and fight in the army of the Lord. That is schizophrenia. Now the church has confused Ephesians 6. We always read this set of scriptures and never read the entire text. After Paul describes the armour of God, he gives instructions on what to do next. I can promise you this, He did not say fight! He said PRAY. See we do not fight against flesh and blood. So you do not fight against your brothers and sisters, but against wicked spirits and principalities in high places. But now I am confused brother Calvin you just said we do not fight but then you just said we fight against wicked spirits. Let me explain: You can not fight a spirit as flesh. The way you defend yourself against the enemy is with truth, the gospel, the Word of God and faith. So the armour will protect you in the fight. But you have to at least have it on and the only way you can have it on is you have a relationship with the owner. The owner if you did not know is our Heavenly Father.
Persecution
There is no doubt that the righteous of God will suffer persecution. Funny when the disciples suffered persecution they rejoiced because they knew and remembered what Jesus told them would happen if they followed him. When you choose to follow Christ, people will lie on you, persecute you for mentioning the name of Jesus. But, remember you are a citizen protected by the angels. Does that mean that some will still die because of the name of Jesus? Yes. But, do not fear death because the Bible says absent from the body, is present with the Lord!
Finally, look at verse 12 and see the blessing for being persecuted. Your reward is in Heaven where no man can corrupt it or even steal it. So stay strong my brother and sister in Christ. One thing I can tell you when you start to make the change for the Kingdom, some of the first people to turn on you is your family. Do not be discouraged but stay the course and be strong in the power of His might.
Abba’s Ambassador,
Min. Calvin Calhoun, Jr.
Pure in Heart
Today’s Focus: Pure in Heart
Scripture: Matthew 5:1-16
Greetings Kingdom Citizens
Today we will be looking at verse 8. What does pure in heart mean? Pure in heart means pure in motive. How about in one word, Holy! So, only to Holy shall see God. Now many of you may think well that means I will not see Him and that is far from the truth. If you want to see God then you must have a pure motive or be holy. Now that requires you to change the lifestyle you live and get under the governmental influence and rule of God and His Kingdom.
So, in other words in order to find God or seek God you must be pure in motive. Now believe this, God is going to test your seeking to see whether you really want to find Him. Let me give you an example! When I want to desperately know about the Kingdom of God, I asked God to show me the secrets and give me the wisdom, knowledge and understanding of the Kingdom. So when I first started reading it did not come right away and I did not hear God tell me anything. It was as if I was reading a regular book. Then, I went back to God, prayed and asked for forgiveness and asked the Father to show me what He would have me to know. Then when I read, God spoke to me and it was in clear dictation. See, only the prayers of a righteous man availeth much. So the prayers of a person in right position with God availeth much.
So the only way you will see God is with a pure heart and a pure motive. You must be in right positioning and have a heart-felt desire to know Him and understand what is His Will.
Abba’s Ambassador,
Min. Calvin Calhoun, Jr.
Scripture: Matthew 5:1-16
Greetings Kingdom Citizens
Today we will be looking at verse 8. What does pure in heart mean? Pure in heart means pure in motive. How about in one word, Holy! So, only to Holy shall see God. Now many of you may think well that means I will not see Him and that is far from the truth. If you want to see God then you must have a pure motive or be holy. Now that requires you to change the lifestyle you live and get under the governmental influence and rule of God and His Kingdom.
So, in other words in order to find God or seek God you must be pure in motive. Now believe this, God is going to test your seeking to see whether you really want to find Him. Let me give you an example! When I want to desperately know about the Kingdom of God, I asked God to show me the secrets and give me the wisdom, knowledge and understanding of the Kingdom. So when I first started reading it did not come right away and I did not hear God tell me anything. It was as if I was reading a regular book. Then, I went back to God, prayed and asked for forgiveness and asked the Father to show me what He would have me to know. Then when I read, God spoke to me and it was in clear dictation. See, only the prayers of a righteous man availeth much. So the prayers of a person in right position with God availeth much.
So the only way you will see God is with a pure heart and a pure motive. You must be in right positioning and have a heart-felt desire to know Him and understand what is His Will.
Abba’s Ambassador,
Min. Calvin Calhoun, Jr.
Mercy
Today’s Focus: Mercy
Scripture: Matthew 5:1-16
Greetings Kingdom Citizens
When we look at verse 7 which states “Blessed are the merciful, for they shall obtain mercy.” Now this seems straight-forward, however many of us seem to unintentionally ignore this rule. Ok, let me give you an example:
You owe me 500 dollars and you come to me and beg that I forgive you because you do not have the money on-time and can we work some arrangements out to pay the debt another way. I say ok (Mercy) how do you propose we get the debt paid.
Now I had mercy on you because I could have asked for my money back immediately and sent you to court and took you through hell, but because God has commanded us to have mercy on others, if I did not have mercy on you then He would not have mercy on me. Got it!
Here is a more vivid picture, take the time to look back over your life. Then look back and see all of the things that you did that were disobedient to God and His laws. Now, mercy is God sustaining you to this point because He could at any point taken you out, but He did not because He loves you and we should take the time to thank our Father for mercy. He has given you another chance, everyday you wake up to get it right! Do not think that our Father does not mean business!
So, citizens we should show mercy to others so that we should obtain mercy from our Father. Do not take our Father’s mercy for granted!
Abba’s Ambassador,
Min. Calvin Calhoun, Jr.
Scripture: Matthew 5:1-16
Greetings Kingdom Citizens
When we look at verse 7 which states “Blessed are the merciful, for they shall obtain mercy.” Now this seems straight-forward, however many of us seem to unintentionally ignore this rule. Ok, let me give you an example:
You owe me 500 dollars and you come to me and beg that I forgive you because you do not have the money on-time and can we work some arrangements out to pay the debt another way. I say ok (Mercy) how do you propose we get the debt paid.
Now I had mercy on you because I could have asked for my money back immediately and sent you to court and took you through hell, but because God has commanded us to have mercy on others, if I did not have mercy on you then He would not have mercy on me. Got it!
Here is a more vivid picture, take the time to look back over your life. Then look back and see all of the things that you did that were disobedient to God and His laws. Now, mercy is God sustaining you to this point because He could at any point taken you out, but He did not because He loves you and we should take the time to thank our Father for mercy. He has given you another chance, everyday you wake up to get it right! Do not think that our Father does not mean business!
So, citizens we should show mercy to others so that we should obtain mercy from our Father. Do not take our Father’s mercy for granted!
Abba’s Ambassador,
Min. Calvin Calhoun, Jr.
Righteousness
Today’s Focus: Righteousness
Scripture: Matthew 5:1-16
Greetings Kingdom Citizens
This is a very important scripture, especially for those of us who are saved. First, hunger and thirst are natural situations in our life. We naturally get hungry and naturally get thirsty. Did you know that the spirit is the exact same way. Many citizens are malnourished and anoxeric and their spirit is starving for the Word of God. The sad thing is and God just revealed this to me and you know if I am talking to you. You sit in church and wonder how can I learn or know like my pastor? Or how can I learn or know what my deacon or even my brother or sister knows? How can I become knowledgeable about the Word and God and put it into action? That is your spirit desiring what you need. But what happens is that satan and his fiery darts of doubt come into your mind and doubt that you can do it and when you become discouraged, you lose interest then satan wins. Now, satan knows that knowledge of the Kingdom will destroy him and he will have no power over you, but the key to that power is knowledge. So the Word of God is knowledge and the only way that you get understanding of how to make it work for you is that God reveals it to you. See everything we have discussed over the past month has been about establishing a relationship and not a religion with God. God is more impressed with the relationship than the religion. He wants to be known more as Father or Abba then Lord and God. See as a child we already know our parents rule over us, but it is that intimate relationship with your parents that reveal the understanding and reasoning into why they do the things they do.
I hear the terms living holy all the time and for those of us we try to define what it is and when God revealed to me what it means to be holy, it was very simple. Here it is:
When you live righteously or live to be in right position with God then holiness is a by-product or a result of righteous living!
Let me tell you this and I have been asked this question: Do you type every e-mail everyday? I responded yes and the only reason I can do this is because I seek the Kingdom daily and I am still learning and I have a natural hunger and thirst for wisdom, knowledge and understanding from God. This requires me to do it daily but when I do not read, I feel I have cheated God. Never take for granted everyday God gives you on this earth. Hunger and thirst for the knowledge of the Kingdom and God has promised you will be filled and trust me I know for a fact He will fulfill His promise. There is so much I can talk about, but I am committed to showing you what God showed me through the Gospels to understand about our Lord and Savior and Our Big Brother, Jesus.
Abba’s Son,
Min. Calvin Calhoun, Jr.
Scripture: Matthew 5:1-16
Greetings Kingdom Citizens
This is a very important scripture, especially for those of us who are saved. First, hunger and thirst are natural situations in our life. We naturally get hungry and naturally get thirsty. Did you know that the spirit is the exact same way. Many citizens are malnourished and anoxeric and their spirit is starving for the Word of God. The sad thing is and God just revealed this to me and you know if I am talking to you. You sit in church and wonder how can I learn or know like my pastor? Or how can I learn or know what my deacon or even my brother or sister knows? How can I become knowledgeable about the Word and God and put it into action? That is your spirit desiring what you need. But what happens is that satan and his fiery darts of doubt come into your mind and doubt that you can do it and when you become discouraged, you lose interest then satan wins. Now, satan knows that knowledge of the Kingdom will destroy him and he will have no power over you, but the key to that power is knowledge. So the Word of God is knowledge and the only way that you get understanding of how to make it work for you is that God reveals it to you. See everything we have discussed over the past month has been about establishing a relationship and not a religion with God. God is more impressed with the relationship than the religion. He wants to be known more as Father or Abba then Lord and God. See as a child we already know our parents rule over us, but it is that intimate relationship with your parents that reveal the understanding and reasoning into why they do the things they do.
I hear the terms living holy all the time and for those of us we try to define what it is and when God revealed to me what it means to be holy, it was very simple. Here it is:
When you live righteously or live to be in right position with God then holiness is a by-product or a result of righteous living!
Let me tell you this and I have been asked this question: Do you type every e-mail everyday? I responded yes and the only reason I can do this is because I seek the Kingdom daily and I am still learning and I have a natural hunger and thirst for wisdom, knowledge and understanding from God. This requires me to do it daily but when I do not read, I feel I have cheated God. Never take for granted everyday God gives you on this earth. Hunger and thirst for the knowledge of the Kingdom and God has promised you will be filled and trust me I know for a fact He will fulfill His promise. There is so much I can talk about, but I am committed to showing you what God showed me through the Gospels to understand about our Lord and Savior and Our Big Brother, Jesus.
Abba’s Son,
Min. Calvin Calhoun, Jr.
The Meek
Today’s Focus: The Meek
Scripture: Matthew 5:1-16
Supp. Scripture: Genesis 1:26; Revelation 21:1,2
Greetings Kingdom Citizens
The definition of meek is humble in spirit or manner. Now we see that Jesus says “Blessed are the meek..” so blessed are the humble in spirit. But look at the next part: “for they shall inherit the earth”. Please understand this is where religion and Kingdom divides itself. Inheritance is something that is yours. Do you see anywhere in this scripture where Jesus says you will inherit Heaven? No! That is what religion has told you. Religion has told you that Heaven is where I want to go to and that’s it and God is saying no it is not. So who are you going to believe, people or God. Ok, let me show you something! Why do you think that Jesus is saying only the meek shall inherit the earth? Let’s look back at the beginning and see what got us where we are today. The desire of the flesh, the pride of life and disobedience. That about sums up what happened in the Garden and God is saying never again. So, if you are humble in spirit and that means you must submit your spirit from your ways to His ways and impact the Earth with His will and not yours. You must become submissive to the Will of God. This is a very hard thing for religious “Christians” to do because the world has shaped their view and decisions about the world that they operate under emotion and not righteousness. It is so easy for us to get caught up in man exalting us when we do something that they think is good. But approval for us comes from Heaven and headquarters, The Kingdom of God.
God gave Earth to His children to have dominion and bring the governing influence or rulership of the Kingdom of God in Heaven to Earth. Is it good to go to Heaven after you die? Yes, of course, but you can’t rule anything there because God has that all taken care of. You ultimate assignment was to have dominion and rule on Earth (Genesis 1:26). So, you can’t do it in Heaven! God has guaranteed you will not stay in Heaven! Is that a shock to you, because if it is this is why! Because there will be a Resurrection! God has made provisions for your body! Here is another beautiful revelation, look at Revelation 21:1,2! Now if we are to stay in Heaven, why did John see a New Heaven and a New Earth coming down. Funny, everything that we need and desire comes down from Heaven and religious people want to consistently go up! God is trying to get His children to impact Earth, not get His children to impact Heaven.
So only those who are going to submit themselves to the Will of God will inherit the Earth. Are you meek and willing?
Abba’s Minister,
Min. Calvin Calhoun, Jr.
Scripture: Matthew 5:1-16
Supp. Scripture: Genesis 1:26; Revelation 21:1,2
Greetings Kingdom Citizens
The definition of meek is humble in spirit or manner. Now we see that Jesus says “Blessed are the meek..” so blessed are the humble in spirit. But look at the next part: “for they shall inherit the earth”. Please understand this is where religion and Kingdom divides itself. Inheritance is something that is yours. Do you see anywhere in this scripture where Jesus says you will inherit Heaven? No! That is what religion has told you. Religion has told you that Heaven is where I want to go to and that’s it and God is saying no it is not. So who are you going to believe, people or God. Ok, let me show you something! Why do you think that Jesus is saying only the meek shall inherit the earth? Let’s look back at the beginning and see what got us where we are today. The desire of the flesh, the pride of life and disobedience. That about sums up what happened in the Garden and God is saying never again. So, if you are humble in spirit and that means you must submit your spirit from your ways to His ways and impact the Earth with His will and not yours. You must become submissive to the Will of God. This is a very hard thing for religious “Christians” to do because the world has shaped their view and decisions about the world that they operate under emotion and not righteousness. It is so easy for us to get caught up in man exalting us when we do something that they think is good. But approval for us comes from Heaven and headquarters, The Kingdom of God.
God gave Earth to His children to have dominion and bring the governing influence or rulership of the Kingdom of God in Heaven to Earth. Is it good to go to Heaven after you die? Yes, of course, but you can’t rule anything there because God has that all taken care of. You ultimate assignment was to have dominion and rule on Earth (Genesis 1:26). So, you can’t do it in Heaven! God has guaranteed you will not stay in Heaven! Is that a shock to you, because if it is this is why! Because there will be a Resurrection! God has made provisions for your body! Here is another beautiful revelation, look at Revelation 21:1,2! Now if we are to stay in Heaven, why did John see a New Heaven and a New Earth coming down. Funny, everything that we need and desire comes down from Heaven and religious people want to consistently go up! God is trying to get His children to impact Earth, not get His children to impact Heaven.
So only those who are going to submit themselves to the Will of God will inherit the Earth. Are you meek and willing?
Abba’s Minister,
Min. Calvin Calhoun, Jr.
Thursday, January 8, 2009
The Poor in Spirit and the Mourners
The Good News (Gospel) According to Matthew
Today’s Focus: The Poor in Spirit and the Mourners
Scripture: Matthew 5:1-16;
Supplemental Scripture: Isaiah 57:15; Isaiah 61:1,2
Greetings Kingdom Citizens
They way we will be doing this section is covering the Beatitudes separately to get an understanding of what Jesus was trying to explain to the multitude about the Kingdom of Heaven. I know we have all read the Beatitudes, but in this series we will dissect what Jesus said and get some spiritual insight.
3 – Poor in Spirit
Jesus opens up His sermon with a beautiful statement and sad to say many of us, even those who are saved, are spiritually poor. So, Jesus says I know what you need if you are spiritually poor, The Kingdom. Noticed, Jesus did not say money, food or clothing, but the Kingdom. Understand that the Kingdom makes you spiritually rich and prosperous. God is not poor! So if God is not poor, neither should His children be. So the ONLY thing that will restore someone who is spiritually poor is the Kingdom of Heaven. This is a very powerful statement! So, if you are not under the governing influence of God’s rulership on Earth you are spiritually poor. Hard to swallow but true. Going to church just to feel better through an emotionally high service will not do it. Someone making you feel good by buying you things will not do it. Only the Kingdom of Heaven can bring you out of spiritual poorness. So that means, restoring your rights and connection to the Kingdom, obeying all of God’s laws and seeking His Kingdom is the only way!
Mourners
When we look at this scripture about those who mourn we view it as those who are sad for they shall be comforted. The question is who is doing the comforting and why are they mourning.
If you were in prison, 9 times out of 10 you would be sad. You would be sad because you are a slave and a servant to judgment and the warden of the prison. But it is not until you come out of the prison are you happy and free. The mourning we are talking about today is a spiritual sadness. Ok! Your natural spirit is to rule and dominate and here you are a slave to sin and a servant of satan. Of, course your spirit should be sad if this is the case but thank God for His comforting. Let me show you something you may not have seen. Look at Isaiah 61:1 and 2!
This scripture is talking about Jesus and what He is coming to do:
1. Preach good tidings (Gospel of the Kingdom)
2. Bind the broken-hearted
3. Proclaim Liberty to the captives and the opening of the prison to them that are bound. Free from the Kingdom of Darkness and satan and freed into the Kingdom of Light and God.
A Prayer for Comforting
Our Father, in the name of Jesus, we thank you for your Spirit. We thank you for your love, grace and mercy. We come right now petitioning you to intervene on this Earth for your children, our brothers and sisters, and comfort them in their times of mourning. We know that we all are going to need some comforting and we know you are a comforter and the comfort you provide is one that no man can provide. We call on your Spirit to touch and comfort those who need you. Let them know that you have them in your hands and everything will be alright because you are the joy and peace of our lives. These blessings we ask in the name of Jesus we pray, Amen!
Our Father’s Son,
Min. Calvin Calhoun, Jr.
Today’s Focus: The Poor in Spirit and the Mourners
Scripture: Matthew 5:1-16;
Supplemental Scripture: Isaiah 57:15; Isaiah 61:1,2
Greetings Kingdom Citizens
They way we will be doing this section is covering the Beatitudes separately to get an understanding of what Jesus was trying to explain to the multitude about the Kingdom of Heaven. I know we have all read the Beatitudes, but in this series we will dissect what Jesus said and get some spiritual insight.
3 – Poor in Spirit
Jesus opens up His sermon with a beautiful statement and sad to say many of us, even those who are saved, are spiritually poor. So, Jesus says I know what you need if you are spiritually poor, The Kingdom. Noticed, Jesus did not say money, food or clothing, but the Kingdom. Understand that the Kingdom makes you spiritually rich and prosperous. God is not poor! So if God is not poor, neither should His children be. So the ONLY thing that will restore someone who is spiritually poor is the Kingdom of Heaven. This is a very powerful statement! So, if you are not under the governing influence of God’s rulership on Earth you are spiritually poor. Hard to swallow but true. Going to church just to feel better through an emotionally high service will not do it. Someone making you feel good by buying you things will not do it. Only the Kingdom of Heaven can bring you out of spiritual poorness. So that means, restoring your rights and connection to the Kingdom, obeying all of God’s laws and seeking His Kingdom is the only way!
Mourners
When we look at this scripture about those who mourn we view it as those who are sad for they shall be comforted. The question is who is doing the comforting and why are they mourning.
If you were in prison, 9 times out of 10 you would be sad. You would be sad because you are a slave and a servant to judgment and the warden of the prison. But it is not until you come out of the prison are you happy and free. The mourning we are talking about today is a spiritual sadness. Ok! Your natural spirit is to rule and dominate and here you are a slave to sin and a servant of satan. Of, course your spirit should be sad if this is the case but thank God for His comforting. Let me show you something you may not have seen. Look at Isaiah 61:1 and 2!
This scripture is talking about Jesus and what He is coming to do:
1. Preach good tidings (Gospel of the Kingdom)
2. Bind the broken-hearted
3. Proclaim Liberty to the captives and the opening of the prison to them that are bound. Free from the Kingdom of Darkness and satan and freed into the Kingdom of Light and God.
A Prayer for Comforting
Our Father, in the name of Jesus, we thank you for your Spirit. We thank you for your love, grace and mercy. We come right now petitioning you to intervene on this Earth for your children, our brothers and sisters, and comfort them in their times of mourning. We know that we all are going to need some comforting and we know you are a comforter and the comfort you provide is one that no man can provide. We call on your Spirit to touch and comfort those who need you. Let them know that you have them in your hands and everything will be alright because you are the joy and peace of our lives. These blessings we ask in the name of Jesus we pray, Amen!
Our Father’s Son,
Min. Calvin Calhoun, Jr.
The One and True Gospel
The Good News (Gospel) According to Matthew
Today’s Focus: The One True Gospel: The Kingdom
Scripture: Matthew 4:23-25
Greetings Kingdom Citizens
Ok, We established that Jesus preached one message and that was the message of the Kingdom. Now in verse 23 we see what the gospel is. Now we know that Gospel means good news. So, Jesus was preaching the good news (gospel) of the Kingdom. Let’s break this down real quickly:
So, the Gospel or good news is not:
· Faith
· Prosperity
· Baptism
· Calvary
· Born Again
· Healing
· Miracles
So the Gospel or the good news is the Kingdom of Heaven is on Earth. Now that is some good news! In a more detail meaning:
Change your mind (Repent) for the governing influence of God’s (King) rulership or royal power (Dominion) from Heaven is on Earth. (Matthew 4:17 in detail)
Jesus came to restore the connection back to Heaven for us because we lost it in the garden when Adam and Eve sinned. So remember the Gospel of the Kingdom is the one true gospel. Keep this email around because later on Jesus Himself will re-enforce this email for us and show us if we do not get the message right then the coming of Jesus will be delayed again.
Abba’s Ambassador,
Min. Calvin Calhoun, Jr.
Today’s Focus: The One True Gospel: The Kingdom
Scripture: Matthew 4:23-25
Greetings Kingdom Citizens
Ok, We established that Jesus preached one message and that was the message of the Kingdom. Now in verse 23 we see what the gospel is. Now we know that Gospel means good news. So, Jesus was preaching the good news (gospel) of the Kingdom. Let’s break this down real quickly:
So, the Gospel or good news is not:
· Faith
· Prosperity
· Baptism
· Calvary
· Born Again
· Healing
· Miracles
So the Gospel or the good news is the Kingdom of Heaven is on Earth. Now that is some good news! In a more detail meaning:
Change your mind (Repent) for the governing influence of God’s (King) rulership or royal power (Dominion) from Heaven is on Earth. (Matthew 4:17 in detail)
Jesus came to restore the connection back to Heaven for us because we lost it in the garden when Adam and Eve sinned. So remember the Gospel of the Kingdom is the one true gospel. Keep this email around because later on Jesus Himself will re-enforce this email for us and show us if we do not get the message right then the coming of Jesus will be delayed again.
Abba’s Ambassador,
Min. Calvin Calhoun, Jr.
Wednesday, January 7, 2009
The Calling
Today’s Focus: The Calling
Scripture: Matthew 4:18-20
Greetings Kingdom Citizens
I know in this world of mega-ministries and churches popping up all over the place there is a great chance you will run into someone who is not teaching and preaching sound doctrine nor preaching anything about the Kingdom of God. Now one thing we will not do is question someone’s calling, however if there is a message that is not scripturally sound we will let you know and bring it to light. Now, I will tell you that everyone who is in “ministry” was not called into ministry. See, here is a fundamental picture. When Jesus saw Simon and Andrew, they were busy doing their regular job as fishermen. Jesus then came unto them and said “Follow me and I will make you fisher’s of men”. Now were the disciples looking for Him or was He looking for them? What has happened to God calling you to do something? Many people go into ministry and God did not call them to do anything. Look at the next statement, “I will make you..” So Jesus will teach you how to fish for men. So many of these ministers, preachers and bishops have gone out into ministry based on what man thinks and not what God assigned. Yes, they may be naturally profitable to have a mega-ministry but what is the message they are sending into the world. Is it God’s message from the Bible. If they do not talk or use the word sin, and we were called sinners by God, what are they talking about. If they accept homosexuality and gay marriage, what are they talking about. If all they talk about is being prosperous by teaching you how to get a car, house and money, what are they talking about! They are wasting your time and time is the one currency you can’t get back. Their lives should mimic the lifestyle Jesus lived. Yes, all of us have come short, but there should be a level of dedication and love for the people of God and their lives mimic their words. Let me leave you with this thought:
“One of the devil’s greatest plans is not to get you to do something that is bad, but to get you to do something that is good but not right” You can do something good but if it is not right then you are wasting your time and energy. Get you assignment from God and not from man.
Abba’s Ambassador,
Min. Calvin Calhoun, Jr.
Scripture: Matthew 4:18-20
Greetings Kingdom Citizens
I know in this world of mega-ministries and churches popping up all over the place there is a great chance you will run into someone who is not teaching and preaching sound doctrine nor preaching anything about the Kingdom of God. Now one thing we will not do is question someone’s calling, however if there is a message that is not scripturally sound we will let you know and bring it to light. Now, I will tell you that everyone who is in “ministry” was not called into ministry. See, here is a fundamental picture. When Jesus saw Simon and Andrew, they were busy doing their regular job as fishermen. Jesus then came unto them and said “Follow me and I will make you fisher’s of men”. Now were the disciples looking for Him or was He looking for them? What has happened to God calling you to do something? Many people go into ministry and God did not call them to do anything. Look at the next statement, “I will make you..” So Jesus will teach you how to fish for men. So many of these ministers, preachers and bishops have gone out into ministry based on what man thinks and not what God assigned. Yes, they may be naturally profitable to have a mega-ministry but what is the message they are sending into the world. Is it God’s message from the Bible. If they do not talk or use the word sin, and we were called sinners by God, what are they talking about. If they accept homosexuality and gay marriage, what are they talking about. If all they talk about is being prosperous by teaching you how to get a car, house and money, what are they talking about! They are wasting your time and time is the one currency you can’t get back. Their lives should mimic the lifestyle Jesus lived. Yes, all of us have come short, but there should be a level of dedication and love for the people of God and their lives mimic their words. Let me leave you with this thought:
“One of the devil’s greatest plans is not to get you to do something that is bad, but to get you to do something that is good but not right” You can do something good but if it is not right then you are wasting your time and energy. Get you assignment from God and not from man.
Abba’s Ambassador,
Min. Calvin Calhoun, Jr.
Jesus' Mission Statement
Today’s Focus: Jesus’ Mission Statement
Scripture: Matthew 4:17
Greetings Kingdom Citizens
We have discussed this scripture in detail a number of times. Here Jesus states His mission and assignment on Earth. Can I say that His assignment is our assignment also! We will discuss this and reinforce this statement throughout the Gospels. Jesus mission was 2-parts:
1. Repent – to get you to change your mind
2. The Kingdom of Heaven is at hand – Re-introduce to Kingdom of Heaven back on Earth.
Jesus came to change our mindset from the kingdom of darkness to the kingdom of light. He came to re-introduce a government that the people could live in and everything that they need would be supplied if they obeyed the laws and commandments of the King. Jesus came to Earth to set the standard of living and show us how to live in this Kingdom. This ministry has said it a hundred times and we will not change it. Jesus did not bring a religion to Earth.
Finally, when you read the scripture it says that “from that time Jesus began to preach, and to say…” This is important because Jesus is declaring what His message was that he was bringing to Earth. Jesus preached the Kingdom of Heaven all-day everyday. So Jesus was a boring preacher according to our standards. We need some emotional hollering and screaming, jumping around. But, Jesus was a calm but stern teacher. He told the good, the bad and the ugly. The question you should be asking yourself. When you go to worship service, what are you searching for? If it is not the Kingdom of God, you need to re-evaluate yourself and your motives.
Abba’s Ambassador,
Min. Calvin Calhoun, Jr.
Scripture: Matthew 4:17
Greetings Kingdom Citizens
We have discussed this scripture in detail a number of times. Here Jesus states His mission and assignment on Earth. Can I say that His assignment is our assignment also! We will discuss this and reinforce this statement throughout the Gospels. Jesus mission was 2-parts:
1. Repent – to get you to change your mind
2. The Kingdom of Heaven is at hand – Re-introduce to Kingdom of Heaven back on Earth.
Jesus came to change our mindset from the kingdom of darkness to the kingdom of light. He came to re-introduce a government that the people could live in and everything that they need would be supplied if they obeyed the laws and commandments of the King. Jesus came to Earth to set the standard of living and show us how to live in this Kingdom. This ministry has said it a hundred times and we will not change it. Jesus did not bring a religion to Earth.
Finally, when you read the scripture it says that “from that time Jesus began to preach, and to say…” This is important because Jesus is declaring what His message was that he was bringing to Earth. Jesus preached the Kingdom of Heaven all-day everyday. So Jesus was a boring preacher according to our standards. We need some emotional hollering and screaming, jumping around. But, Jesus was a calm but stern teacher. He told the good, the bad and the ugly. The question you should be asking yourself. When you go to worship service, what are you searching for? If it is not the Kingdom of God, you need to re-evaluate yourself and your motives.
Abba’s Ambassador,
Min. Calvin Calhoun, Jr.
Sunday, January 4, 2009
Beginning of Jesus Ministry
Today’s Focus: The Beginning of Jesus Ministry
Scripture: Matthew 4:12-16
Greetings Kingdom Citizens
The ministry of Jesus began after John the Baptist was put in prison and out of the way. See, John was the last prophet to prophesy the coming of Christ and now that He was here, John had to get out of the way. That is why Jesus did not stop Herod from cutting John the Baptist head off. Just to give you a heads up, when John was in prison he sent his disciples to ask Jesus whether he was the Messiah and Jesus sent back word that He was. So now Jesus goes out of Nazareth and heads to Nabulon to fulfill the prophecy of Isaiah. This was a very important prophecy because Jesus is stating who He is coming to save. Let’s look at Isaiah 42:6-7:
If you read verse 6, you see that Jesus was sent to be a light unto the Gentiles. Now look at verse 7. To open blinded eyes and bring out of prison the prisoners that sit in darkness. Hold up right here! Do you remember I sent an email about get out of prison about 1 month ago. So Jesus came to set you free from the prison of darkness and warden satan. So, Jesus came to save all of mankind!
Finally, lets look at Matthew 4:16. It is important for us to live in the light and not in the darkness of satan. Nothing good happens in darkness! So in order to get out of darkness, you must have some knowledge of light. Here is a quick example. If you are at home sitting in utter darkness and you know you want to turn on the light to see, you must first have knowledge of how to turn on the light. So in order to get out of darkness you have to have knowledge. So the knowledge you need is the Word of God and the light is Jesus Christ. See how simple it is! Get out of darkness today!
Abba’s Ambassador,
Min. Calvin Calhoun, Jr.
Scripture: Matthew 4:12-16
Greetings Kingdom Citizens
The ministry of Jesus began after John the Baptist was put in prison and out of the way. See, John was the last prophet to prophesy the coming of Christ and now that He was here, John had to get out of the way. That is why Jesus did not stop Herod from cutting John the Baptist head off. Just to give you a heads up, when John was in prison he sent his disciples to ask Jesus whether he was the Messiah and Jesus sent back word that He was. So now Jesus goes out of Nazareth and heads to Nabulon to fulfill the prophecy of Isaiah. This was a very important prophecy because Jesus is stating who He is coming to save. Let’s look at Isaiah 42:6-7:
If you read verse 6, you see that Jesus was sent to be a light unto the Gentiles. Now look at verse 7. To open blinded eyes and bring out of prison the prisoners that sit in darkness. Hold up right here! Do you remember I sent an email about get out of prison about 1 month ago. So Jesus came to set you free from the prison of darkness and warden satan. So, Jesus came to save all of mankind!
Finally, lets look at Matthew 4:16. It is important for us to live in the light and not in the darkness of satan. Nothing good happens in darkness! So in order to get out of darkness, you must have some knowledge of light. Here is a quick example. If you are at home sitting in utter darkness and you know you want to turn on the light to see, you must first have knowledge of how to turn on the light. So in order to get out of darkness you have to have knowledge. So the knowledge you need is the Word of God and the light is Jesus Christ. See how simple it is! Get out of darkness today!
Abba’s Ambassador,
Min. Calvin Calhoun, Jr.
The Temptations of Jesus Christ
Today’s Focus: The Temptation of Jesus Christ
Scripture: Matthew 4:1-11
Greetings Kingdom Citizens
I know many of you have read this story, but in seeking God for wisdom and understanding, He opened up this set of scriptures to me like never before. First, let’s understand that Jesus endured temptation just like us. The sin is not the temptation, but yielding to it. Temptation will come throughout your life, but you have been given power from on High to overcome all temptation because that is what Jesus did. Now Satan knew who Jesus truly was. He knew that He was the Son of God. He knew that if he could just get him to succumb to one of the temptations then God’s program to re-instate us would be over. Let’s look at the scriptures:
1. The Temptation of the Bread –Deuteronomy 8:3
Because Jesus was fasting, Satan figured well I will get Him with what He may want the most right now, food! So, he tempts Jesus to use His power to turn the stones to bread. But look at how Jesus replies! He uses the law to fight back against Satan. So, knowledge of God’s Word is paramount in fighting temptation. Jesus knew that His food which was spiritual was the Word of God. Is that your food today? Or are you spiritually malnourished and anorexic? Check you spiritual diet today!
2. The Temptation of Jesus concerning the Angels
This is a very unique temptation because if you do not read this carefully, you will fall into the trap. Satan asked Jesus to cast himself down. Now look at what satan says next! “For it is written”. Satan is quoting scriptures to Jesus. Now if you read the rest you see that satan is quoting that the angels have been given charge concerning thee. Here is the trick!
1. Satan can quote this because He was in the Army of the Kingdom of God. He was an Angel.
2. Satan knows scriptures.
Here is the part if you did not read it carefully. Satan asked Jesus to jump. So the act of jumping is an intentional act. If you should fall the angels have been given charge to keep you. Not if you jump! There is an intentional act and an unintentional act. See how subtle the change was but it made all the difference. Now Jesus in His response, quotes Kingdom law to satan. Are you seeing a picture yet about how to deal with satan.
3. The Temptation of Jesus Concerning the Kingdoms of the World
Now this was also unique where Satan actually used the truth to try make Jesus fall. Satan knew that the authority over earth had been given unto him by Adam when He sinned in the Garden. So now Satan goes after the obvious. He tempts Jesus to worship and bow down to him and he will give him the kingdoms of the world. Now look at Jesus response! He quotes Kingdom law again and then tell satan to get behind Him. What a powerful statement. Sad that many of us do not realize we have the power to cast the devil out of the earth because he is actually not legal here on Earth (We will visit this later, stay tuned).
Now look at the last verse which is verse 11. After fasting and praying and casting satan away, angels came and ministered to him. Now if you look at all of the temptations, it was very consistent from both ends. Satan used knowledge and scripture to try to get Jesus to fall, but Jesus knew scripture and had knowledge of the truth and all He did was quote the law back to satan. So is it safe to say that, the most important weapon you can have against satan is the Word of God. The Word of God and the Knowledge of the Kingdom is the one thing that satan fears. So I suggest we start getting wise and understanding God’s Word so we can be prepared for the attacks of the enemy.
Abba’s Ambassador,
Min. Calvin Calhoun, Jr.
Scripture: Matthew 4:1-11
Greetings Kingdom Citizens
I know many of you have read this story, but in seeking God for wisdom and understanding, He opened up this set of scriptures to me like never before. First, let’s understand that Jesus endured temptation just like us. The sin is not the temptation, but yielding to it. Temptation will come throughout your life, but you have been given power from on High to overcome all temptation because that is what Jesus did. Now Satan knew who Jesus truly was. He knew that He was the Son of God. He knew that if he could just get him to succumb to one of the temptations then God’s program to re-instate us would be over. Let’s look at the scriptures:
1. The Temptation of the Bread –Deuteronomy 8:3
Because Jesus was fasting, Satan figured well I will get Him with what He may want the most right now, food! So, he tempts Jesus to use His power to turn the stones to bread. But look at how Jesus replies! He uses the law to fight back against Satan. So, knowledge of God’s Word is paramount in fighting temptation. Jesus knew that His food which was spiritual was the Word of God. Is that your food today? Or are you spiritually malnourished and anorexic? Check you spiritual diet today!
2. The Temptation of Jesus concerning the Angels
This is a very unique temptation because if you do not read this carefully, you will fall into the trap. Satan asked Jesus to cast himself down. Now look at what satan says next! “For it is written”. Satan is quoting scriptures to Jesus. Now if you read the rest you see that satan is quoting that the angels have been given charge concerning thee. Here is the trick!
1. Satan can quote this because He was in the Army of the Kingdom of God. He was an Angel.
2. Satan knows scriptures.
Here is the part if you did not read it carefully. Satan asked Jesus to jump. So the act of jumping is an intentional act. If you should fall the angels have been given charge to keep you. Not if you jump! There is an intentional act and an unintentional act. See how subtle the change was but it made all the difference. Now Jesus in His response, quotes Kingdom law to satan. Are you seeing a picture yet about how to deal with satan.
3. The Temptation of Jesus Concerning the Kingdoms of the World
Now this was also unique where Satan actually used the truth to try make Jesus fall. Satan knew that the authority over earth had been given unto him by Adam when He sinned in the Garden. So now Satan goes after the obvious. He tempts Jesus to worship and bow down to him and he will give him the kingdoms of the world. Now look at Jesus response! He quotes Kingdom law again and then tell satan to get behind Him. What a powerful statement. Sad that many of us do not realize we have the power to cast the devil out of the earth because he is actually not legal here on Earth (We will visit this later, stay tuned).
Now look at the last verse which is verse 11. After fasting and praying and casting satan away, angels came and ministered to him. Now if you look at all of the temptations, it was very consistent from both ends. Satan used knowledge and scripture to try to get Jesus to fall, but Jesus knew scripture and had knowledge of the truth and all He did was quote the law back to satan. So is it safe to say that, the most important weapon you can have against satan is the Word of God. The Word of God and the Knowledge of the Kingdom is the one thing that satan fears. So I suggest we start getting wise and understanding God’s Word so we can be prepared for the attacks of the enemy.
Abba’s Ambassador,
Min. Calvin Calhoun, Jr.
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