?_`ÿÿÿÿzžPGl!Óq÷:The Big Picture"Copyright 2000 Gibson Productionshttp:6CB(`Glossary',`Glossary of Items',`JI(`',`Topic12')'))CB(`Test',`Test',`EF(`index.htm',`',1)')4CB(`Game',`The Call Game',`EF(`agsgame.exe',`',1)')<CB(`Spiritual Gifts',`Spiritual Gifts',`JI(`',`Topic428')')&CB(`Help',`Help',`JI(`',`Topic329')')lCB(`Online',`Go Online',`EF(`http://members.xoom.com/_XMCM/FreeChristianDownloads/bigpic/start.htm',`',1)')ZÿmainThe Big Picture@+øÄÿÿæÿÿæ  /&;)z4ÿÿ>m>ÿÿÿÿCASHREG.WAVòšCHIMES.WAVj²FAMILY.WAV{NEXT.WAV1DOPEN.WAV£,|CONTEXTe|CTXOMAP}G|FONTKE|KWBTREEºH|KWDATAˆG|KWMAP©H|SYSTEM|TOPIC|TTLBTREEéL|bm0G…|bm1I=|bm10¿ |bm11ÞC |bm12»i |bm13§s |bm14ҝ |bm15­å |bm16Ò' |bm17Pg |bm18¶Â |bm19Ì |bm2~‰|bm20|Ó |bm21]ç |bm22|2 |bm23&< |bm24îD |bm25#R |bm26Á^ |bm27n |bm28— |bm290ä |bm3]2 |bm30Eï |bm31È|bm32|!|bm330~|bm34$Ç|bm35|bm36‚\|bm37‹j|bm38BØ|bm39^›|bm4£x |bm40iÈ|bm41b|bm42 Ž|bm43>š|bm44)ç|bm45„}|bm46G„|bm47C§|bm5ÑÔ |bm6¢Þ |bm7Bu |bm8aŽ |bm9d Œ>³>ÿÿÿÿ 9ÿÿÿÿE1rÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿE£ðBContents^ £X €€€€†J€ÀC#R*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+CHIMES.WAV€†"€‚ÿEÀž ÿ€€‚€€‚âυÞ€‰È)EF(`mailto:timshen@pacific.net.sg',`',1)‰ãKîr€‰€€â­{4õ€‰€‚‚ÈEF(`bigpicshow.pps',`',1)‰‚‚ÿThe Big Picture Contents.By Rev.Tim Gibson (Send Tim an e-mail) - CONTACTING The Gibsons. - This software is HONOURWARE.Copyright 2001 Gibson Productions. Version 4.1. Click 'help' button above if you're stuck! Click here for the 'Big Picture PowerPoint 2000 Show' to be used as a teaching tool alongside this package.  k£`5 :€Ö€‚H€‚‚€ƒãßÛêA€‰‚ÿClick below to begin the course or continue where you left off...·INTRODUCTION: The Big Picture.Y.À¹+ &€\€‚H€ã§îr‰‚ÿ-------STAGE ONE: God's Original Purpose.V+`+ &€V€‚H€ã©îr‰‚ÿ-------STAGE TWO: The Fall Of Mankind.X-¹g+ &€Z€‚H€ãÕîr‰‚ÿ-------STAGE THREE: The Cross Of Christ.\1Ã+ &€b€‚H€ãÌîr‰‚ÿ-------STAGE FOUR: Our Present Walk Of Faith`5g#+ &€j€‚H€ãÍîr‰‚ÿ-------STAGE FIVE: Glory - Our Ultimate Destiny.(ÃK% €€‚H€‚ÿc4#®/ .€h€‚H€ƒããÛêA€‰‚ÿ·LESSON ONE: God's General and Specific Will.^3K + &€f€‚H€ãÑîr‰‚ÿ-------God's General Will : EAGLE-LIKE VISION.^3®j+ &€f€‚H€ãÒîr‰‚ÿ-------God's Specific Will : ANT-LIKE CALLING.X- Â+ &€Z€‚H€ã&ïr‰‚ÿ-------All Of Us Are Saved To Be Called.(jê% €€‚H€‚ÿb3ÂL/ .€f€‚H€ƒãäÛêA€‰‚ÿ·LESSON TWO: How To See and Hear God's Will.d9ê°+ &€r€‚H€ã©ïr‰‚ÿ-------Conditions For Seeing and Hearing God's Will.Q&L+ &€L€‚H€ãªïr‰‚ÿ-------Faulty Hearing and Seeing.[0°\+ &€`€‚H€ã«ïr‰‚ÿ-------Ways We Can See and Hear God's Will.mBÉ+ &€„€‚H€ãôN‰‚ÿ------- (a) PERSONAL (Individual Or Direct Guidance).a6\* + &€l€‚H€ãõN‰‚ÿ------- (b) CORPOREAL (Other Christians).Q&É{ + &€L€‚H€ãöN‰‚ÿ------- (c) SUPERNATURAL.T)* Ï + &€R€‚H€ã&N‰‚ÿ-------Testing What We See And Hear.({ ÷ % €€‚H€‚ÿf7Ï ] / .€n€‚H€ƒãåÛêA€‰‚ÿ·LESSON THREE: The Outworking Of His Will In Us.Z/÷ · + &€^€‚H€ãMN‰‚ÿ-------The General Process Of Our Calling.lA] # + &€‚€‚H€ãNN‰‚ÿ-------The Process of Announcing, Appointing and Annointing.Q&· t + &€L€‚H€ãzN‰‚ÿ-------The Process of Separation.L!# À + &€B€‚H€ãqN‰‚ÿ-------The Process of Dying.(t è % €€‚H€‚ÿX)À @ / .€R€‚H€ƒãN€‰‚ÿ·LESSON FOUR: Moving Into Gifting.N#è Ž + &€F€‚H€ãŽN‰‚ÿ-------What The Gifts are Not.J@ Ø + &€>€‚H€ãN‰‚ÿ-------What The Gifts Are.Z/Ž 2 + &€^€‚H€ãN‰‚ÿ-------Principles Involved With The Gifts.X-Ø Š + &€Z€‚H€ã‘N‰‚ÿ-------Discovering Your Spiritual Gifts.(2 ² % €€‚H€‚ÿf7Š / .€n€‚H€ƒãéN€‰‚ÿ·LESSON FIVE: The Vision Building Questionairre.g<² + &€x€‚H€ãêN‰‚ÿ-------Identifying Your Spiritual and Natural Giftings.g<æ+ &€x€‚H€ãëN‰‚ÿ-------Identifying God's Specific Calling On Your Life.V+<+ &€V€‚H€ãN‰‚ÿ-------Conclusions and Planning Stage.(æd% €€‚H€‚ÿX)<Œ/ .€R€‚H€ƒãHN€‰‚ÿ·LESSON SIX: Communicating Vision.N#d@+ &€F€‚H€ãIN‰‚ÿ-------The Man And His Œ@ Vision.g<Œ}@+ &€x€‚H€ãJN‰‚ÿ-------Recognizing And Seizing God-Given Opportunities.P%@Í@+ &€J€‚H€ãKN‰‚ÿ-------Communicating The Vision.(}@õ@% €€‚H€‚ÿ(Í@A% €€‚H€‚ÿAõ@^A+ &€,€‚HãŸN€‰‚ÿSome Final Words.*AˆA& €€‚H€‚ÿŠ{^A.B+ &€ö€‚HãLîr€‰‚ÿClick here for the Glossary- this lists all the pictures and diagrams, topics and Bible verses found in this document.(ˆAVB% €€‚H€‚ÿJ.B B+ &€>€‚HãKîr€‰‚ÿCONTACTING Rev.Tim Gibson.(VBÈB% €€‚H€‚ÿ( BðB% €€‚H€‚ÿ7ÈB'C1ÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿ'CœC~KTopic1u%ðBœCP p€J€€†F€ÀCeT*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+NEXT.WAV€ €‚ÿINTRODUCTION: The Big Picture.ôË'CD) €—€€‚€‚‚ÿGroup or Individual Activity: Look at the following picture which shows an overview of God's Will. Get a piece of paper and list the five stages, entering your own comments and initial impressions.>œCÎD6 <€€ã§îr€ †"€‰€‚‚ÿDœFo ¬€€‚H€‚‚‚‚€ƒã§îr€‰‚€ƒã©îr€‰‚€ƒãÕîr€‰‚€ƒãÌîr€‰‚€ƒãÍîr€‰‚ÿNow look at each stage and consider the following points. Later on in the next lesson we will develop these thoughts further.Click on the STAGE you want to look at....·STAGE ONE: God's Original Purpose.·STAGE TWO: The Fall Of Mankind.·STAGE THREE: The Cross Of Christ.·STAGE FOUR: Our Present Walk Of Faith·STAGE FIVE: Glory - Our Ultimate Destiny.(ÎDåF% €€‚H€‚ÿd?œFIG% €~€‚H€‚ÿOnce you have finished the five stages do the following.... (åFqG% €€‚H€‚ÿΟIG?H/ ,€?€‚H€€âËy`/‰‚ÿIndividual or Group Activity: Read Romans 8:29-30 and think about/discuss how this passage shows the full process shown in the diagram (The Big Picture).(qGgH% €€‚H€‚ÿ^3?HÅH+ &€f€‚Hâóy`/€‰‚ÿA Proposed Group Excercise to end this lesson.(gHíH% €€‚H€‚ÿɅÅH¶ID V€ €‚HÈEF(`bigpic1.htm',`',1)€‰€‚ÿClick here to access the Self-Assessment test for this lesson - this will help you make sure you took to heart the main points.(íHÞI% €€‚H€‚ÿO*¶I-J% €T€‚H€‚ÿNow you are ready to go on to LESSON 1:(ÞIUJ% €€‚H€‚ÿa2-J¶J/ .€d€‚H€ƒããÛêA€‰‚ÿ·LESSON 1: God's General And Specific Will.(UJÞJ% €€‚H€‚ÿ(¶JK% €€‚H€‚ÿ(ÞJ.K% €€‚H€‚ÿ(KVK% €€‚H€‚ÿ(.K~K% €€‚H€ ‚ÿ1VK¯K1ÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿ¯K™€ Ã~KÏN] ˆ€‰€€ †J€ÀC'S*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+FAMILY.WAV†"€/‚€‚‚‚‚ÿRev.Timothy James Gibson (b.13/9/65).Tim is originally from England where he earned a bachelors degree from Imperial College (London) in Chemistry with Management, but has been based in Singapore since 1988 (having come out under the covering of World Horizons Missions and being sent out by his church in Northampton, Abington Christian Centre).Since being in Singapore he has gone through Bible School and has degree in Theology which he has applied in the missions field and local church work in South East Asia. Presently he is ministering predominantly in Singapore as an associate pastor in Church of Singapore - Jurong (North Extension). He was ordained in 1997 under Life Centre MinistriesŸ!¯K™€ E€€‚†"€.‚‚È,EF(`http://www.inchrist.org/timshen/',`',1)‰È/EF(`http://home.pacific.net.sg/~timshen',`',1)‰€‚‚‚‚€‚ÿHe married Shendy, a Chinese Singaporean, in March 1994 and they have two lovely kids, Melody (born Dec.1994) and Gideon (Born Jan.1997).For moÏN™€~Kre detailed information you can view Tim's personal page on the web or The Gibson Family Christian Resource (our family homepage)1ÏNʀ1õÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿʀŽƒ‘™€è‚ è€#€€†F€ÀCZ*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAVâ8m4õ‰‚â8m4õ‰â8m4õ‰‚â9m4õ‰‚‚â:m4õ‰â;m4õ‰‚″€€‚€€âхÞ‰âùy`/‰‚‚ÿGroup or Individual Activity: Read through Genesis Chapter One (especially Genesis 1:27-28) and Two (especially Genesis 2:15-18) and then look at the following diagram. What do you understand it to mean ?0†Ñ‡, (€ €€†"€‚ÿf3¡‡7‰3 4€g€€‚ãÕ N‰â m4õ‰‚‚‚ÿGenesis Chapter One reveals God's EAGLE-LIKE vision for mankind, whereas Genesis Chapter Two reveals God's ANT-LIKE CALLING for each person. Genesis One shows God's general will for all mankind whereas Genesis Two gives an example of Adam's specific call that is a model for all who follow Christ.ìžÑ‡#Š4 6€q€€âôy`/‰‚âõy`/‰‚ÿGenesis Chapter 1 = God's General Will (VISION = Seeing Jesus Doing - Revelation 1:1).Genesis Chapter 2 = God's Specific Will (CALLING = Hearing Jesus Saying - Romans 10:17).h#7‰‹‹E X€G€‚H€‚‚‚‚€ƒãÑîr€‰‚€ƒãÒîr€‰‚ÿWe will later look more closely at vision and calling being seeing and hearing Jesus. Now let us look at EAGLE-LIKE VISION and ANT-LIKE CALLING separately. Click on the one you want to view....·God's General Will : EAGLE-LIKE VISION.·God's Specific Will : ANT-LIKE CALLING.(#Š³‹% €€‚H€‚ÿyP‹‹,) €¡€‚H€€‚ÿWe must not only work hard and plan as he ant does but we must make sure all we do is within the vision as seen from the heavenlies for our life (as an eagle's vision). Vice verca, we must no be so heavenly minded so as to be of no earthly use - there must be a balance in our lives of both the qualities of an ant and of an eagle. (³‹T% €€‚H€‚ÿhC,Œ% €†€‚H€‚ÿWhen you have completed these two sections go to the next one...(Tä% €€‚H€‚ÿX)Œ<Ž/ .€R€‚H€ƒã&ïr€‰‚ÿ·All Of Us Are Saved To Be Called.(ädŽ% €€‚H€‚ÿ(<ŽŒŽ% €€‚H€‚ÿ(dŽŽŽ% €€‚H€‚ÿ(ŒŽÜŽ% €€‚H€‚ÿ(ŽŽ% €€‚H€‚ÿ(܎,% €€‚H€ ‚ÿ7c1rÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿc¿é Topic3\,¿V |€€€†F€ÀCÙm*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+NEXT.WAV€†"€‚ÿc!c.ÂB R€C€€‚‚‚âŸz`/‰â€z`/‰‚â z`/‰âхÞ‰‚‚‚¿.Â,ÿBy their very names, vision denotes seeing and calling denotes hearing. As we have already seen, we all have a specific calling within His overall vision for mankind. The Apostle Paul was called to be an Apostle (see Romans 1:1,Galatians 1:15-16) but had a more general vision (See Acts 26:15-18), based on the original vision given to Adam and Eve ( Genesis 1:27-28). This will be the same pattern for each one of us.We will now look at Biblical definitions of Vision and Calling and see how we arrive at the conclusion that...&¿TÂ# €€€‚ÿe>.¹Â' €|€€‚‚ÿVISION = Seeing Jesus Doing.CALLING= Hearing Jesus Saying.†-TÂ?ÅY €€[€€‚‚‚‚â¡z`/€‰€‚‚€€â£z`/‰ãÓ N‰â¥z`/‰âÑz`/‰‚‚€‚ÿClick below to see the Biblical definitions of Vision and Calling.....Biblical Definition Of VisionGroup or Individual Activity: Read the definition of Vision and then read Proverbs 29:18. Think about/discuss what this verse shows us about the importance of vision. Pray the prayer of Ephesians 1:17-18over each other! Look at John 4:35 and comment on the phrase:'If we spend time in the presence of Jesus and really see Him there will be a time when He will ask us to lift our heads for a vision of the harvest field (the Lost).'§¹ÂæÅ( €þ€€‚€‚‚ÿLook at The EAR and EYE Diagram below and comment on the list of words under VISION in the light of the above statement.<?Å"Æ5 :€€ã«ïr€ †"€‰€‚ÿ$ÈæÅFÈ\ †€‘€€‚â¢z`/€‰€‚‚€€âõy`/‰âÌu4õ‰‚‚âÈz`/‰‚‚€€‚â z`/‰‚ÿBiblical Definition Of CallingGroup or Individual Activity: Calling is all about hearing Jesus. Hearing what ? (See Romans 10:17 - NB.The use of 'word' here is 'Rhema' which means the revealed personal word of God to us : see this quote).Look again at EAR and EYE Diagram and comment again on the list of words under CALLING in the light of the above statement.The Example Of Paul.Reading Acts 26:15-18 again shows us that Paul:{<"ÆÁÊ? L€y€€‚‚‚âÍz`/‰‚âÌz`/‰‚‚‚ã.N‰‚‚‚ÿ(a) SAW and HEARD Jesus (v15) (He received vision and calling).(b) He received a WORLD VISION (vv17-28)(c) He was to see things IN and THROUGH Jesus (that which He reveals).(d) He obeyed his calling (Acts 26:19)(e) His vision and calling led to get up and go (in the Lord's timing)(Acts 22:10,21).When we see Jesus, we see His purposes and our part in the purpose.(Read The Vocation of the Natural Life by Oswald Chambers').When we really have a vision of Jesus and our purpose in Him, our lives will be gripped by, mastered by, submitted to this vision.ÐFÈØÌG \€¡€€‚âÉz`/‰âÊz`/‰âËz`/‰‚âdn4õ‰‚‚€€‚‚ÿWhen Paul saw Jesus, he became blind to everything else (see Acts 9:8-9,Matthew 17:8 and John 9:39). Let us acknowledge our 'blindness'and cry out for 'sight' (See this Quote).One Vision Many Callings.In the life of Nehemiah we saw he had a VISION of Jerusalem broken down but to be rebuilt. His CALLING was to LEAD the work. Others caught the SAME VISION but with DIFFERENT CALLINGS (different areas of buiding the wall, different skills etc..).;ÞÁÊÏ] ˆ€œ€‚H€‚‚‚‚âTg4õ‰‚‚‚‚€ƒã©ïr€‰‚€ƒãªïr€‰‚€ƒã«ïr€‰‚ÿThis principle is the same for Churches, Cell groups, Missions groups etc..Indeed, within one vision there may be another 'embrionic' vision waiting to be birthed for others to join (this requires one who will run with the vision).Click here for a group activity.You are now ready to go onto the next section. Click on the one you want...·Conditions For Seeing and Hearing God's Will.·Faulty Hearing and Seeing.·Ways We Can See and Hear God's Will.T%ØÌgÏ/ .€J€‚H€ƒã&N€‰‚ÿ·Testing What We See And Hear.(ϏÏ% €€‚H€‚ÿAgÏÐÏ( €2€‚H€€‚ÿMaturing in Guidance.jÏk% €Ô€‚H€‚ÿBefore conÐÏk,tinuing, it is worth remembering that the guidance we get will change as we mature in Christ.(Ðϓ% €€‚H€‚ÿÞ¯kq/ ,€_€‚H€€ã N‰‚ÿGroup or Individual Activity: Read this article on The Secret Of The Lord and think about/discuss the lessons learnt here. Is there anything that surprises you ? What ?(“™% €€‚H€‚ÿ úq¹& €õ€‚H€‚ÿAs we mature in our relationship with Him, just as a child grows into a teen , a young adult and then to a fully grown adult, God's level of dramatic and obvious guidance will decrease (except for crucial moments such as Paul's Macedonian vision).(™á% €€‚H€‚ÿ7¹& €#€‚H€‚ÿHe will expect us to use sanctified common sense more as we mature in Him. More and more responsibility to determine our own course (which indeed will be His as we are more IN HIM) will be given to us, just as a Father trust his son with more as the son proves himself.(á@% €€‚H€‚ÿäŸ$& €}€‚H€‚ÿThe more we learn to respond to the Spirit's promptings, the more we will recognise His guidance. He prompts each one of us in unique ways which only we can find out by trial and error!!!(@L% €€‚H€‚ÿÒ¬$& €Y€‚H€‚ÿGod calls us and will actively show us His way by both spiritual sight and spiritual sound! If we do not hear His guidance or see His way then it is not that He is unable to communicate them, but we are not in the right place. You may need to go over and over this lesson asking the Lord to bring you to the place He wants you to be at this time, allowing Him to unblock your spiritual ears and sharpen your spiritual eyes. (LF% €€‚H€‚ÿèu.s ¶€ê€‚HÈJEF(`http://harvest.org/church/events/sun/archive/jan99/gl0110a.htm',`',1)€‰‚ÿClick here to hear the audio or see the video of Greg Laurie's great online teaching on knowing the will of God.(FV% €€‚H€‚ÿʅ. E X€ €‚HÈEF(`bigpic10.htm',`',1)€‰€‚ÿClick here to access the Self-Assessment test for this lesson - this will help you make sure you took to heart the main points.(VH % €€‚H€‚ÿ‰^ Ñ + &€Œ€‚H€ãåÛêA‰‚ÿYou are now ready to go onto the next lesson -LESSON 4: The Outworking of His Will In Us.(H ù % €€‚H€‚ÿ(Ñ ! % €€‚H€‚ÿ(ù I % €€‚H€‚ÿ(! q % €€‚H€‚ÿ(I ™ % €€‚H€‚ÿ(q Á % €€‚H€‚ÿ(™ é % €€‚H€‚ÿ7Á  1‡ÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿ Ê ÂKTopic4ªQé Ê Y ‚€¢€€†F€ÀC`*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+NEXT.WAV€ â­f4õ€‰€ ‚ÿLESSON 3:The Outworking of His Will in Us.The Process of Calling Diagram˜] b ; D€»€€‚€â*f4õ‰‚€‚€€‚‚‚ÿ(1) THE OVERVIEW OF THE PROCESS - Walking worthily of the call (Ephesians 4:1-3).Group Or Individual Activity: The diagram below shows the overview of our calling. Think about/discuss what each part represents, looking at the relevant Scriptural verses together.Ask each person to say where they feel they are on the diagram! Explain.0Ê ’ , (€ €€†"€‚ÿu,b @I `€Y€€‚â®f4õ‰â¯f4õ‰âÑe4õ‰â°f4õ‰âÜf4õ‰âÓf4õ‰‚ÿThis diagram shows us the process we all go through in our calling. As we mature from a spiritual babe ( 1 Peter 2:2) to an adolescent in Christ ( 1 John 2:13-14) and then to be spiritually mature ( Hebrews 5:11-14 and Hebrews 6:1-3) and maybe to a hero of faith ( Isaiah 53:12 and all of Hebrews 11) and hopefully to a friend of God ( James 2:23), we see that God's level of dramatic and obvious guidance will decrease (except for crucial times). We must go from being DEPENDENT to being INDEPENDENT and then to being INTER-DEPEN’ @é DENT.“n’ Š@% €Ü€€‚‚‚ÿIn the diagram above (you can view it again by clicking on the link under the title above) we see that...¢j@HA8 @€Ô€€â”n4õ‰â‘n4õ‰ân4õ‰‚ÿPoint Z = GENERAL WILL (Vision) - Sonship, Glory, conformity to His Image etc..&Š@nA# €€€‚ÿ‘eHAÿA, (€Ê€€â›y`/‰‚ÿPoints A..B..C..D = SPECIFIC WILL (Calling) - steps of faith ( Ephesians 2:10) towards the goal.ªenA©DE X€Ë€€‚€‚€€‚‚âÔf4õ‰âÕf4õ‰‚‚â«f4õ‰‚ÿGroup and Individual Activity: As an example we will be looking at Abraham's life. For Abraham his Point Z (which he constantly had in mind) can be seen in John 8:56 and Hebrews 11:8-10. Read these passages and comment on the Point Z that Abraham constantly had in mind. How does this apply to us today ?The steps A...B...C..D.. represent the process of possessing the land of Canaan which came as a gradual revelation to Abraham. This was SPECIFIC to Abraham's life. (Just have a quick glimpse at the diagram on Abraham's General Process Of Calling which we will look at in more detail later.)£CÿALF` Ž€‡€‚H€‚‚‚€ƒãMN€‰‚€ƒãNN€‰‚€ƒãzN€‰‚€ƒãqN€‰‚ÿNow you are ready to continue your study on the process of calling. Choose one of the following topics which it is recommended you do in the order given...·The General Process Of Our Calling.·The Process of Announcing, Appointing and Annointing.·The Process of Separation.·The Process of Dying.(©DtF% €€‚H€‚ÿœtLFG( €è€‚H€€‚ÿGroup Or Individual Activity: Can you think of other processes we go through in our Christian calling ? Discuss.(tF8G% €€‚H€‚ÿøGVH& €ñ€‚H€‚ÿFrom this lesson we see that we all enter into a process of God's calling on our lives which has been determined even from before we were born. If we are not progressing in each one of these processes then we are living stunted Christian lives. (8G~H% €€‚H€‚ÿ(VHŠI& €€‚H€‚ÿThis lesson has looked particularly at the life of Abraham and comparing our process of calling to his. Right now think of another Biblical character you can trace the process of calling in. Write down their progress of calling and lessons you can learn.(~HÎI% €€‚H€‚ÿʅŠI˜JE X€ €‚HÈEF(`bigpic15.htm',`',1)€‰€‚ÿClick here to access the Self-Assessment test for this lesson - this will help you make sure you took to heart the main points.(ÎIÀJ% €€‚H€‚ÿŠ_˜JJK+ &€Ÿ€‚H€ãN‰‚ÿYou have now finished this lesson and can now go on to the next one : Moving Into Gifting.(ÀJrK% €€‚H€‚ÿ(JKšK% €€‚H€‚ÿ(rKÂK% €€‚H€‚ÿ1šKóK1ÐÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿóK’LŸQÂK’LN l€¢€€†F€ÀCa*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV‚€‚ÿ"For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God."Romans 3:23 (NKJV)1óKÃL1Ÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿ ÿÿÿÿÃL1OAê’LOW |€Õ€€†F€ÀCÙn*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV‚‚‚‚‚‚âЅÞ‰‚ÿ"You will show me the path of life;In Your presence is fulness of joy;At Your right hand are pleasures forevermore."Psalm 16:11 (NKJV)The 'path of life' is only found in the presence of the Lord (symbolized by the garden of Eden) - only by partaking of the tree of life (wisdom of God) can we remain in this place. His Will is often linked with 'pleasure' (eg. Philippians 2:13: "For it is God who works in you both to will and to do for His good pleasure" and Ephesians 1:5).-ÃL1O' € €€‚€‚ÿ 7OhO1ÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿ hOÙO…Topic5q1OÙOU z€:€€ †J€ÀC}*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+FAMILY.WAV†"€.‚ÿCONTACTING The Gibsons.]œhOB‚  {€€‚€ÈÙOB‚1O/EF(`http://home.pacific.net.sg/~timshen',`',1)‰‚‚‚‚È=EF(`http://members.truepath.com/timshen/teaching.html',`',1)‰‚ÿThe Gibsons are Tim,Shen, Melody and Gideon - they have an online resource called The Gibson Family Christian Resource which is an online Christian resource plus a collection of their own personal pages. Go there to find out more about the Gibsons.Rev.Tim Gibson regularly produces new teaching materials which are made freely available over the internet at the following address....http://members.truepath.com/timshen/teaching.htmlÞÙOW„7 <€œ€€‚â­{4õ€‰€‚‚€‚‚ÿThis download is HONOURWARE which means that you are encouraged to send an 'honourarium' (love gift) for the use of it if you have the means. Much work has gone into this and Tim has personally paid all expenses both financially and in much hard-work and time-taken. The recommended way is to send a ten dollar bill (or equivalent) inside a folded piece of paper in an envelope to the following address.....Timothy James Gibson,Block 653, Woodlands Ring Rd, #12-466,*–B‚…” ö€-€€‚€‚‚È)EF(`mailto:timshen@pacific.net.sg',`',1)‰‚È/EF(`http://home.pacific.net.sg/~timshen',`',1)‰‚‚‚ãÞÛêA‰‚ÿSingapore 730653.Tel: (65) 3642669E-mail: timshen@pacific.net.sg Homepage:http://home.pacific.net.sg/~timshenGo back to the Contents.9W„º…1 !ÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿ º…B†gGlossaryˆ8…B†P p€p€€†F€ÀC[*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+NEXT.WAV€€‚ÿGlossary of Diagrams,Topics and Bible Verses used.•º…]ˆ† ڀ+€€‚€€‚âÍy`/‰‚â}{4õ‰‚â~{4õ‰‚âøy`/‰‚â+g4õ‰‚ârz`/‰‚âÿ|4õ‰‚âÈz`/‰‚â­f4õ‰‚â«f4õ‰‚â¬f4õ‰‚âžz`/‰‚âªf4õ‰‚ÿDiagrams.....THE BIG PICTURE.Paul's Trips West.Prophetic Move Of The Gospel Westward.ARROW DIAGRAMSecond Arrow Diagram.SPECTRUM OF CALLINGSThe three spheres of calling diagram.EAR and EYE DiagramThe Process of Our Calling.Abraham's General ProcessOf CallingPlace Name Meanings of Abraham's Journeys.Announcing,Appointing and AnointingThe Process Of Separation.B†bŠ† ڀÿ€âz`/€‰‚â©f4õ‰‚âðt4õ‰‚âñt4õ‰‚âuu4õ‰‚âª{4õ‰‚â«{4õ‰‚â¬{4õ‰‚‚€€‚â€y`/‰‚ãþ N‰‚â–n4õ‰‚â m4õ‰‚ã\N‰‚ÿThe BDR ProcessDead Ends or Dead Beginnings ?Differences Between the Fruit and the Gifts.Chart on the Gifts Of The Spirit.Vision Planning ChartCartoon Of Nehemiah and King.Cartoon Of Nehemiah's Motivating Speech.Chart Of Oppositions To Vision.Topics Referred to.....'The Highway of Holiness'AdoptionAnt ScriptureAnts of the BibleAtonementˆ]ˆvŒŒ 怀âït4õ€‰‚â#u4õ‰‚â¡z`/‰‚â¢z`/‰‚ãN‰‚â}4õ‰‚â}4õ‰‚âru4õ‰‚ãçN‰‚ãËN‰‚â>m4õ‰‚â m4õ‰‚âWf4õ‰‚â1g4õ‰‚ãÕ N‰‚ÿBaptism in the SpiritBarnabas' Progression of GiftingBiblical Definition Of VisionBiblical Definition Of CallingBloodBridge People - Trainers, Mobilizers,Motivators.Business For Missions and Tentmaking.Circumstances and guidanceThe Devotion of Hearing'Diary of a Bible'.DominionDreamsDreams/Visions and TrancesEagle ScripturesEagles of the Bible ibŠ€Ž¡ Ó€âm4õ€‰‚ã[N‰‚âŽn4õ‰‚âyu4õ‰‚âm4õ‰‚âCt4õ‰‚âSf4õ‰‚â‘n4õ‰‚âtu4õ‰‚âRf4õ‰‚ân4õ‰‚âu4õ‰‚ã^N‰‚ã0N‰‚ã—N‰‚âÍu4õ‰‚ãN‰‚ãmN‰‚ÿEarth shall be filled The FallFastingFeeding of the 5000FruitfulnessFruit of the SpiritThe Gifts Of The SpiritGlory of GodGoal SettingGod's Servants Ministering His Word Image of GodThe Impartation of Spiritual GiftsInheritanceInspirational thought on Asking God.King's Garden.ListeningMeditationMillenium-švŒ¹À“ ô€5€âm4õ€‰‚ãèN‰‚âÍt4õ‰‚â}4õ‰‚â#z`/‰‚âyy`/‰‚âšt4õ‰‚ãÓ N‰‚ãÿ N‰‚âÈu4õ‰‚âfn4õ‰‚âjn4õ‰‚â}4õ‰‚âEt4õ‰‚âÌu4õ‰‚âËu4õ‰‚ÿMultiplyMust I Listen ?My Testimony of a God-Given DreamNonresidential MissionaryOvercomersPathway of LifePlanting Of The LordPrayerPredestinationQuote about MeditationQuote about Prayerfully AskingQuot€Ž¹À…e by A.J.Gordon on PrayerQuote by Andrew Murray on PrayerQuote by Charles Spurgeon on the WordQuote by D.L.Moody on the WordQuote by George Muller on the Word”€ŽœÂp ®€)€âÊu4õ€‰‚â¡t4õ‰‚âžt4õ‰‚âdn4õ‰‚âÆu4õ‰‚âÇu4õ‰‚â}4õ‰‚â}4õ‰‚âm4õ‰‚ât4õ‰‚ãN‰‚ÿQuote by George Verwer on PrayerQuote by Jim Elliot of Counsel of the heart.Quote by Jim Elliot on Childhood dreamsQuote by King George VI in Christmas MessageQuote by Oswald Chambers on PrayerQuote by Plutarch on Listening to OthersQuote by Spurgeon on PrayerFrontier Missions and Regular MissionsRighteousnessScriptures on being called from the WombSigns and Wonders.ƒ¹ÀÔÄ” ö€€ãØ N€‰‚ã2N‰‚â…{4õ‰‚ã@N‰‚â”n4õ‰‚ãN‰‚ãN‰‚ã N‰‚âxu4õ‰‚âœt4õ‰‚ã.N‰‚ãN‰‚âf4õ‰‚âHt4õ‰‚‚€€‚âхÞ‰‚ÿSeek, Inquire Self-Sufficiency Slain.Senders (Which includes Givers and Prayers)Short Summary of the Life of Peter.SonSufferingThe Parable of the Talents. The Secret Of The LordTheocraticTree Of LifeThe Vocation of the Natural LifeThe Voice Of The Nature of God.Waiting On The LordWill of GodBible Verses Referred to.....Genesis 1:27-28YœÂÜƯ ,³€âPz`/€‰‚âGz`/‰‚âHz`/‰‚âùy`/‰‚âry`/‰‚â›u4õ‰‚âsy`/‰‚âty`/‰‚â%z`/‰‚âz`/‰‚âHu4õ‰‚âg4õ‰‚âz`/‰‚âz`/‰‚âz`/‰‚âœu4õ‰‚âZf4õ‰‚âyz`/‰‚â†f4õ‰‚âÙf4õ‰‚ÿGenesis 2:8Genesis 2:9Genesis 2:16Genesis 2:15-18Genesis Chapter 3 (Selected readings)Genesis 3:15Genesis 3:21Genesis 4:3-5Genesis 9:1Genesis 12:1-3Genesis 15:6Genesis 16:1-4Genesis 22:17-18Genesis 28:3-4Genesis 50:22-26Exodus 19:6Exodus 33:19-13Joshua 1:8Joshua 5:13-15Joshua 24:2-3WÔÄâȯ ,¯€âUf4õ€‰‚âf4õ‰‚âf4õ‰‚âUg4õ‰‚âÙe4õ‰‚â°{4õ‰‚â§{4õ‰‚â„{4õ‰‚â©{4õ‰‚âzz`/‰‚â.g4õ‰‚âyy`/‰‚âXg4õ‰‚âsz`/‰‚âpu4õ‰‚âÿe4õ‰‚âØf4õ‰‚âÛf4õ‰‚âsu4õ‰‚â.f4õ‰‚ÿ1 Samuel 3:1-102 Kings 23:31 Chronicles 14:8-172 Chronicles 16:92 Chronicles 26:11-16Nehemiah 1:5-11Nehemiah 2:12-16Nehemiah 4:16-18Nehemiah 8:1-6;9:3Psalm 1:1-3Psalm 2:8-9Psalm 16:11Psalm 25:9Psalm 32:8Psalm 37:4Psalm 119:9-11Psalm 149:16Proverbs 4:18-21Proverbs 16:3Proverbs 24:6 TÜÆìʶ :©€â/f4õ€‰‚â£z`/‰‚âÏu4õ‰‚âØe4õ‰‚â,g4õ‰‚âcn4õ‰‚âxz`/‰‚âÜf4õ‰‚âwz`/‰‚âÒe4õ‰‚â×f4õ‰‚âXf4õ‰‚âf4õ‰‚âg4õ‰‚âÚe4õ‰‚âu4õ‰‚â\g4õ‰‚ân4õ‰‚âg4õ‰‚â[g4õ‰‚âÌt4õ‰‚ÿProverbs 25:19Proverbs 29:18Isaiah 5:2Isaiah 6:1-8Isaiah 11:2-4Isaiah 30:20-21Isaiah 30:21Isaiah 53:12Isaiah 58:11Isaiah 66:12Jeremiah 1:4-9Daniel 2:28Daniel 9:2-4Habakkuk 2:1-3; 3:17-18Micah 7:16.Matthew 1:1Matthew 5:8Matthew 6:16-18Matthew 6:30-34Matthew 7:3Matthew 7:22-23 GâÈ÷ÌÄ V€âWg4õ€‰‚âYg4õ‰‚âÊz`/‰‚âNz`/‰‚âœy`/‰‚â¢y`/‰‚â"z`/‰‚â¢u4õ‰‚â}f4õ‰‚âƒ{4õ‰‚âÑz`/‰‚â¡y`/‰‚âVg4õ‰‚âÔf4õ‰‚âËz`/‰‚âYf4õ‰‚âxy`/‰‚âžy`/‰‚âÚf4õ‰‚âÔe4õ‰‚âVf4õ‰‚âÉz`/‰‚âm4õ‰‚ÿMatthew 10:37-39Matthew 11:25Matthew 17:8Matthew 20:16Matthew 24:14Matthew 26:39Matthew 28:19-20Mark 14:3-9 Luke 1:10-14Luke 9:62John 4:35John 5:30John 7:17John 8:56John 9:39John 12:27-30John 14:6Acts 1:8)Acts 7:2-4Acts 7:51Acts 9:1-7Acts 9:8-9Acts 16:7-10WìÊýί ,¯€âÌz`/€‰‚â z`/‰‚âÍz`/‰‚âŸz`/‰‚âÉt4õ‰‚âՅÞ‰‚â)g4õ‰‚â/g4õ‰‚âËy`/‰‚âÕe4õ‰‚âõy`/‰‚âIz`/‰‚â£y`/‰‚âJz`/‰‚âf4õ‰‚â-g4õ‰‚âZg4õ‰‚âf4õ‰‚â{z`/‰‚âIu4õ‰‚ÿActs 22:10,21Acts 26:15-18Acts 26:19Romans 1:1Romans 1:1-6Romans 3:23Romans 8:6-7Romans 8:17-18Romans 8:29-30Romans 10:14Romans 10:17Romans 12:2Romans 15:13Romans 15:201 Corinthians 1:91 Corinthians 3:13-151 Corinthians 3:18-191 Corinthians 7:151 Corinthians 7:201 Corinthians 12:1p÷Ì!š á€âGu4õ€‰‚âKu4õ‰‚âg4õ‰‚âÆy`/‰‚â€z`/‰‚â z`/‰‚â€f4õ‰‚â0f4õ‰‚â*g4õ‰‚â!z`/‰‚âЅÞ‰‚âvy`/‰‚ây`/‰‚â¥z`/‰‚â›y`/‰‚âu4õ‰‚â*f4õ‰‚âÊt4õ‰‚âuz`/‰‚ÿ1 Corinthians 14:1 1 Corinthains 14:12 1 Corinthians 15:331 Corinthians 15:51-52ýÎ!…Galatians 1:15-16Galatians 3:14Galatians 5:13Galatians 5:16Galatians 5:19-21Galatians 5:22-23Ephesians 1:3-6Ephesians 1:7-12Ephesians 1:13-14Ephesians 1:17-18 Ephesians 2:10Ephesians 3:2Ephesians 4:1-3Ephesians 4:7Ephesians 5:17sýÎ5¡ ç€â£u4õ€‰‚âŸy`/‰‚âyy`/‰‚âvz`/‰‚â)f4õ‰‚âüe4õ‰‚âg4õ‰‚âÉy`/‰‚âƒf4õ‰‚â u4õ‰‚âýe4õ‰‚âÇy`/‰‚âOz`/‰‚âÈy`/‰‚âg4õ‰‚âMz`/‰‚âg4õ‰‚â‚f4õ‰‚ÿEphesians 6:5-8Philippians 2:5Philippians 2:13Colossians 1:9Colossians 3:15Colossians 3:161 Thessalonians 1:9.1 Thessalonians 2:121 Thessalonians 4:71 Thessalonians 4:171 Thessalonians 5:181 Thessalonians 5:232 Thessalonians 1:112 Thessalonians 2:13-142 Thessalonians 3:61 Timothy 2:41 Timothy 6:10-111 Timothy 6:12O!:¶ :Ÿ€âJu4õ€‰‚âwy`/‰‚âf4õ‰‚âÓe4õ‰‚â2g4õ‰‚âÑe4õ‰‚â°f4õ‰‚âuy`/‰‚âÕf4õ‰‚âtz`/‰‚âJt4õ‰‚âš{4õ‰‚âÓf4õ‰‚â}4õ‰‚âg4õ‰‚â®f4õ‰‚âžu4õ‰‚âKt4õ‰‚âIt4õ‰‚â y`/‰‚âòt4õ‰‚ÿ2 Timothy 1:72 Timothy 1:92 Timothy 3:15-172 Timothy 4:3-4Hebrews 3:19Hebrews 5:11-14Hebrews 6:1-3Hebrews 9:22Hebrews 11:8-10Hebrews 12:1Hebrews 12:15James 2:18James 2:23James 4:13-151 Peter 1:7-91 Peter 2:21 Peter 2:91 Peter 2:20-211 Peter 3:91 Peter 4:11 Peter 4:10-11-Á5gl Š€ƒ€âÖe4õ€‰‚â¯f4õ‰‚â×e4õ‰‚â(f4õ‰‚âôy`/‰‚âÊy`/‰‚âŸu4õ‰‚âþf4õ‰‚â¡u4õ‰‚‚ãÞÛêA‰‚ÿ1 John 2:111 John 2:13-141 John 2:161 John 2:27Revelation 1:1Revelation 7:9Revelation 11:15Revelation 17:14Revelation 20:4-6Go back to the main Contents page.1:˜1!ÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿ ÿÿÿÿ˜ˆ +ÝgÃN j€»€€†F€ÀC \*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV‚‚‚‚ÿGenesis Chapter 3 (NKJV) (Selected readings....)"Now the serpent..said to the woman...."you will not surely die...in the day you eat of it your eyes will be opened, and you will be like God...So when the woman saw that the tree was good for food and itWas pleasant to the eyes, and a tree desirable to make one wise, she took of its fruit and ate. She also gave to her husband with her, and he ate....they knew that they were naked and they...made themselves coverings..Åš˜ˆ + $€5€€‚‚‚‚€‚ÿ..Adam and his wife hid themselves from the presence of the Lord God".As a result of their disobedience the man and woman were thrown out of the garden (God's place of purpose and destiny) and lived under a curse (on the woman a curse of pain in childbearing and desire towards her husband, on a man a curse of hard toil and sweat-filled labour).They now were separated from God's Will for their lives.1ù 1èÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿ ÿÿÿÿ¹ p ·hˆ p O n€Ð€€†F€ÀCa*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV‚‚€‚ÿ"Also for Adam and his wife the Lord God made tunics of skinAnd clothed them."Genesis 3:21 (NKJV)1¹ ¡ 1ãÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿ¡ S ²^p S T v€œ€€†F€ÀC±d*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV‚‚‚‚‚‚€‚ÿ"And in the process of time it came to pass that CainBrought an offering of the fruit of the ground to the Lord.Abel also brought of the firstlings of his flock and of their fat.And the Lord respected Abel and his offering,But He did not respect Cain and his offering. And Cain was very angry and his countenance fell."Genesis 4:3-5 (NKJV)1¡ „ 1ÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿ„ iå•S iP n€+€€†F€ÀCAi*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV‚‚€‚ÿ"And according to the law almost all things are purged with blood,And without the shedding of blood there is no remission."Hebrews 9:22 (NKJV)1„ š1¢ÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿš†B'}iÍ@ª "û€€†F€ÀC*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAVâ‹m4õ‰âŒm4õ‰‚âm4õ‰âŽm4õ‰âm4õ‰âm4õ‰‚â‘m4õ‰â’m4õ‰â“m4õ‰‚â`m4õ‰‚âim4õ‰â¿m4õ‰‚â¶m4õ‰â·m4õ‰âžm4õ‰‚ÿ"In Him (Jesus) we have redemption through His blood,The forgiveness of sins, according to the riches of His graceWhich He made to abound toward us in all wisdom and šÍ@iprudence,Having made known to us the mystery of His will,According to His good pleasure which He purposed in Himself,That in the dispensation of the fulness of times He might ¹rš†BG \€å€â¹m4õ€‰‚âºm4õ‰âÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿwH„I °FH„I] ˆ€a€€†F€ÀC)u*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV‚ân4õ‰‚ân4õ‰‚€‚ÿ"And this gospel of the kingdom will be preached in all the worldAs a witness to all the nations (people groups), And then the end will come."Matthew 24:14 (NKJV)1wHµI1îÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿµIrKœS„IrKj ¢€§€€†F€ÀCmw*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV‚‚ââm4õ‰‚âãm4õ‰âäm4õ‰âåm4õ‰‚€‚ÿ"In Him (Jesus) you also trusted, after you heard the word of truth,The gospel of your salvation; in whom also, having believed,You were sealed with the Holy Spirit of promise,Who is the guarentee of our inheritance until the redemption of the purchased possession, To the praise of His glory."Ephesians 1:13-14 (NKJV)1µI£K1Lÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿ£KŸLÅrKŸLV z€‹€€†F€ÀC±y*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV‚ân4õ‰‚€‚ÿ"But you shall receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you;And you shall be witnesses to Me in Jerusalem and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth."Acts 1:8 (NKJV)1£KïL1×ÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿïL•MŠXŸL•MN l€°€€†F€ÀCœ*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV‚€‚ÿ"Let this mind be in you which was also in Christ Jesus...."Philippians 2:5 (NKJV)1ïLÆM1<ÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÆMÑN ®•MÑN] ˆ€]€€†F€ÀCu‡*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAVâæm4õ‰‚‚âæm4õ‰‚€‚ÿ"Therefore since Christ suffered for us in the flesh,Arm yourself with the same mind,For he who has suffered in the flesh has ceased from sin."1 Peter 4:1 (NKJV)1ÆMO1GÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿO$€·ÑN$€_ Œ€o€€†F€ÀC¹‰*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV‚â`m4õ‰‚â`m4õ‰‚‚‚€‚ÿ"I can of Myself do nothing. As I hear , I judge;and my judgement is righteous, because I do not seek My own willBut the will of the Father who sent meO$€ÑN."John 5:30 (NKJV)1OU€1ÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿU€;æŠ$€;\ †€€€†F€ÀC•*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV‚âçm4õ‰âçm4õ‰‚€‚ÿ"...O my Father, if it is possible, let this cup pass from me;Nevertheless, not as I will but as You will."Matthew 26:39 (NKJV)1U€l1ÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿlR‚æ–;R‚P n€-€€†F€ÀCõ{*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV‚‚€‚ÿ"Now may the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing,That you may abound in hope by the power of the Holy Spirit."Romans 15:131lƒ‚1=ÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿƒ‚ƒ »R‚ƒQ p€w€€†F€ÀCŗ*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV‚‚‚€‚ÿ"Therefore, my beloved, as you have always obeyed,Not as in my presence only, but now much more in my absence,Work out your own salvation with fear and trembling;"Philippians 2:121ƒ‚Àƒ1€ÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÀƒ3…s!ƒ3…R r€C€€†F€ÀC š*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV‚‚‚‚€‚ÿ"Behold, I tell you a mystery: We shall not all sleep, but we shall be changed- in a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trumpet.For the trumpet will sound, and the dead will be raised incorruptible,And we shall be changed (resurrection bodies)."1 Corinthians 15:51-521Àƒd…1Rÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿd……†!Ð3……†Q p€¡€€†F€ÀCMœ*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV‚‚‚€‚ÿ"Now may the God of peace Himself sanctify (set apart) you completely;And may your whole spirit, soul and body be preserved blamelessAt the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ."1 Thessalonians 5:23 (NKJV)1d…¶†1íÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿ ÿÿÿÿ¶†rˆŒW…†rˆe ˜€¯€€†F€ÀC‘ž*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV‚‚âut4õ‰âqt4õ‰‚â¢z`/‰‚‚€‚ÿ"But we are bound to give thanks to God always for you,Brethren beloved of the Lord , because God from the beginningChose you for salvation through sanctification by the Spirit And belief in the truth, to which He called you by our gospel,For the obtaining of the glory of our Lord Jesus Christ."2 Thessalonians 2:13-14 (NKJV)1¶†£ˆ1ÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿ!ÿÿÿÿ£ˆs‰Ѐrˆs‰P n€€€†F€ÀCÕ *33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV‚‚€‚ÿ"That you would have a walk worthy of God who calls youInto (unto) His own kingdom and glory."1 Thessalonians 2:12 (NKJV)1£ˆ€‰1ÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿ"ÿÿÿÿ€‰r‹Î|s‰r‹R r€ù€€†F€ÀC£*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV‚‚‚‚€‚ÿ"After these things I looked, and behold a great multitude,Which no one could number, of all nations, tribes, peoples and tongues,Standing before the throne and before the Lamb, clothed with white robes,With palm branches in their hands, and crying out with a loud voice, saying"Salvation belongs to our God who sits on the throne, and to the Lamb.""Revelation 7:9 (NKJV)1€‰£‹1êÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿ#ÿÿÿÿ£‹\¹@r‹\y À€€€†F€ÀC]¥*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAVãÿ N‰âèm4õ‰ân4õ‰âþä) @ N€ý€€‚âvy`/‰‚‚âwy`/‰âxy`/‰‚ã\N‰‚ÿRead Ephesians 1:7-12 and think about/discuss what Jesus has done to bring us back to God's original intention. What must we do ?According to what we have seen above and also what we read in 2 Timothy 1:9, even before time God had in His heart the answer, Jesus, who came to show us the way and indeed BE the way (see John 14:6).Only through trusting in Jesus and in His work of atonement, in our life repenting from all sin, turning our back on it and going His way, can we get back on track.ï“ë \ †€'€€€€€€€€€€â€y`/‰‚‚€€€€âu4õ‰€€‚ÿBut inviting Jesus into our hearts as our personal saviour is only the FIRST STEP - we are SAVED and then CALLED with a HOLY CALLING. There is a pathway ('The Highway of Holiness') we must walk upon and not stray away from...for each of us it will go in the same direction but will also be unique!Jesus is mentioned right at the start of the Gospels as being the SEED of Abraham (The Lamb of God - redeeming Lost Humanity strand) and the SEED of David (The Lion of Judah - redeeming the Fallen Kingdom strand) - see Matthew 1:1 which shows that Jesus came to fulfill both strands as He is called the 'Son of David, the Son of Abraham'.4 ) XA+ $€€€‚âžu4õ‰‚ÿThe whole ministry of Jesus can be seen as preparing and enabling the Church to take over God's mission where Israel had failed. God's intention has not changed, He expects the Church to XA–rise up and extend God's Kingdom to the ends of the earth, seeing lost humanity redeemed by the blood of Jesus. The Church is now to be that 'Kingdom of Priests' ('Royal Priesthood' - see 1 Peter 2:9) that will appropriate Christ's victory in both areas (fallen kingdom and lost humanity) in the earth in His power and strength.žiöA5 :€Ò€‚H€‚‚‚€ƒãÌîr€‰‚ÿIt is within this context that we must see our part....·STAGE FOUR: Our Present Walk Of Faith.(XAB% €€‚H€ ‚ÿ7öAUB1K ÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿ(UBC+€Topic9°VBCZ „€¬€€†F€ÀCab*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+NEXT.WAV€ ‚âÍy`/€‰€ ‚ÿSTAGE 4: Our Present Walk Of Faith.Click here to view the BIG PICTURE again.&UB+C# €€€‚ÿMCxC/ .€>€€†"€‚ÿOur Present Walk Of Faith.Rþ+CÊFT v€ý€€‚€€‚€‚€€â›y`/‰ây`/‰âЅÞ‰âvy`/‰âžy`/‰‚ÿThe section marked by a circled number 4 relates to this stage. It is the 'Jacob's ladder' that connects us back up with God's original heavenly purpose. Through Jesus Christ we are places on an upwards staircase leading to His inheritance. We are to walk this in faith step by step.Group or Individual Activity: Think about/discuss why you think a picture of Moses and the burning bush was used for this section. Read Ephesians 2:10 and think about/discuss what we have been 'recreated' in Christ Jesus for. Read also Ephesians 1:13-14(it would also be good to read again Ephesians 1:3-6 and Ephesians 1:7-12) and think about/discuss what God's provision is for our present walk of faith. Who empowers us for our mission ? (See also Acts 1:8). 0þxCúH2 2€ý€€‚€€‚âœy`/‰‚ÿWe are saved and then must enter into our CALL (we are not called to be saved, but saved to be called). This call will comprise of God's GENERAL call to all Christians but will also be a SPECIFIC call to each one of us (see next lesson).Each one of us will have a call in the context of God's BIG PICTURE (i.e. in the context of Missions). According to God's word, 'the end' (destination point) will not be reached until every tongue, tribe and nation has heard the Gospel message (See Matthew 24:14).…ÊFK€ ΀ €€‚€€€€âÏy`/‰€€âŸy`/‰â y`/‰€€â¡y`/‰â¢y`/‰âyy`/‰€€â£y`/‰‚€€âÆy`/‰âÇy`/‰‚ÿIt is imperative we learn to walk in God's call for our lives. Our Spirit has BEEN SAVED at new birth, but our Soul (Mind,Will and Emotions) is BEING SAVED (Philippians 2:12)) so we are to have more of the mind of Christ (Philippians 2:5,1 Peter 4:1), the will of the Father (John 5:30,Matthew 26:39,Philippians 2:13) and the emotions of the Holy Spirit(Romans 15:13).When Jesus comes back for His bride, we WILL BE SAVED in our bodies (1 Corinthians 15:51-52,1 Thessalonians 5:23).6úHµM1 0€ €€‚€€€€‚ÿOur present Christian walk must link in with God's original intention to see the earth full of people bearing His image, ruling and reigning with justice and righteousness. We do this by faith, reckoning ourselves as seeds of Abraham and of David - we can be a part of redeeming the two strands of Fallen Kingdom and Lost Humanity. We must be as Lions to the Kingdom of darkness (Spiritual Warfare) and as Lambs to Lost Humanity, leading them sacrificially to the one perfect sacrifice for their sins - Jesus!ÑK¹O3 4€£€€‚âœy`/‰âJz`/‰‚‚‚ÿWe will be looking at how we can practically align our lives now to be a part of God's strategic end-time army, reaching all people groups for Christ so that we hasten His coming (See Matthew 24:14). Our aim must be that of the Apostle Paul, to reach the unreached, setting them free from the counterfeit kingdom of Satan and bringing them into a saving knowledge of Jesus Christ (See Romans 15:20).Now we will look at what we are ultimately saved into...f3µM+€3 6€f€‚H€‚€ƒãÍîr€‰‚ÿ·STAGE FIVE: G¹O+€Blory - Our Ultimate Destiny.8¹Oc€1l ÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿ)c€QTopic10³Y+€Z „€²€€†F€ÀCÑc*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+NEXT.WAV€ ‚âÍy`/€‰€‚ÿSTAGE 5: Glory - Our Ultimate Destiny.Click here to view the BIG PICTURE again.&c€<# €€€‚ÿT5 :€@€€†"€€ €‚ÿGlory - Ultimate Destiny.[ÿ<ëƒ\ †€ÿ€€‚€€€â‘n4õ‰‚‚€€âЅÞ‰âvy`/‰ây`/‰‚‚âÈy`/‰âÉy`/‰‚ÿThis stage relates to the area with the circled number 5. This is the glorious inheritance we have in Christ. THe fulness of His glory. See this article on Glory of God.Group or Individual Activity: Read again Ephesians 1:3-6,Ephesians 1:7-12 and Ephesians 1:13-14 and list all the things spoken of that we are ultimately called to. Think about/discuss each one and say what you think it means.Read also 2 Thessalonians 2:13-14 and 1 Thessalonians 2:12 and state what we are called to.Ɛñ†@ N€€€‚‚ân4õ‰‚‚âÊy`/‰âœy`/‰ãEN‰‚ÿHow does this tie into what you have already read ?God's original purpose for man (to see a world full of those bearing His Image, glorifying his name) can only be reached through Jesus by the power of His Spirit working in and through us. Only as we are obedient to His call on our lives then we will do His will and see His purposes outworked.Finally, the Word of God shows us, this destiny will be met when every tongue, tribe and nation stands before God worshipping Him (See Revelation 7:9). When representatives from every tongue, tribe and peoples have been brought before King Jesus, the end will come (See Matthew 24:14) - Click here to see the prophetic move of God through history. ýÄëƒî‰9 @€‰€€‚â u4õ‰ãmN‰â¡u4õ‰‚‚‚ÿThe Bible also shows us that heaven is just the waiting room of the saints. When Jesus returns in power and glory, all His saints will be gathered together to meet Him in the sky with new resurrection bodies (See 1 Thessalonians 4:17) . The saints will then descend to rule and reign with Jesus for a thousand years on earth after a period of God's wrath being poured out (See Revelation 20:4-6).This was God's original intention - the earth filled with saints bearing His image, ruling and reigning with justice and righteousness. The kingdoms of this age that have been ruled by Satan's dark forces will become the Kingdom of Light as the saints rule and reign over every people group on earth.ßñ†þ‹1 0€¿€€‚âŸu4õ‰ãN‰‚ÿWe are now in training for this rulership, and though God's kingdom now is seen in His rule and reign in our lives and not as a physical territory, with His second coming His kingdom will be finally established on earth (See Revelation 11:15). With representatives from every tongue, tribe and nation the stage will be set for Jesus to return and apportion out rewards of rulership depending on our faithfulness to His call on our lives (Read the Parable of the Talents).+ïî‰)< F€ß€‚H€‚ãmN‰‚‚€ƒãßÛêA€‰‚ÿThe fulness of God's original intention will of course be seen with the arrival of the new heaven and new earth after the thousand year Millenium - the ultimate glory we are called into.·Go back and finish the final overviews.(þ‹Q% €€‚H€ ‚ÿ1)‚1ˆÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿ*ÿÿÿÿ‚ À1àQ³Q p€Á€€†F€ÀC©e*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV‚‚‚‚‚‚‚ÿA group excercise you could do is to divide the group into 5 teams and give each one of them a stage from the Big Picture.Each team has to come up with a short skit showing the state of man in relation to God's purpose for mankind (in their stage).After a time given to discuss and come up with a skit (say 20 mins) ask each group to give a 2-3 minute presentation of their stage (all in order).Have a feedback session of all that has been learnt during this excercise. &‚ À# €€€‚ÿ³ ÀQ1³=À1œÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿ+ÿÿÿÿ=À“ÁVú À“Á\ †€õ€€†F€ÀCùn*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAVâ n4õ‰‚‚‚€‚‚€‚ÿ"The Revelation of Jesus Christ, which God gave Him to show His servants - things which must shortly take place. And He sent and signified it by His angel to His servant John."Revelation 1:1Above all, it is a revelation of Jesus Himself!1=ÀÄÁ1Úÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿ,ÿÿÿÿÄÁm©[“ÁmÂN l€¶€€†F€ÀCél*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV‚€‚ÿ"So then faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the word (Rhema) of God."Romans 10:178ÄÁ¥Â1/ÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿ-¥ÂÃ4@Topic11pmÂÃY ‚€0€€†F€ÀCIr*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+NEXT.WAV†"€€ €‚ÿThe Big Picture.;¥Â¢ÅR r€w€€‚âøy`/€‰‚‚€€ãÕ N‰‚‚ãÕ N‰â1g4õ‰‚‚âхÞ‰‚ÿ Click here to view the ARROW DIAGRAM againGroup or Individual Activity:Looking at the ARROW DIAGRAM, which part represents the EAGLE-LIKE vision ? Think about/discuss what would happen if this was missing or mis-directed.Think about/discuss why an Eagle's vision best represents God's will in Genesis One. (You should firstly look at the many Eagle Scriptures.)Read again Genesis 1:27-28 and think about/discuss God's overall, general, eagle-like vision he gave to mankind. Write down each element of that vision and think about/discuss each one.º€Ã\Ç: B€€€‚ãN‰€€‚‚âхÞ‰‚‚ÿRead this illustration and talk about how it demonstrates the need for seeing the BIG PICTURE.The basic vision of God shown in Genesis 1:27-28 can be seen through the work of Christ as being relevant to us today. Each aspect that was God's general will for Adam and Eve can be seen to relate to a specific activity for us today. Generally, it's God will for us to all....f:¢ÅÂÇ, (€t€€ân4õ‰‚ÿ(1) To Be Conformed To His Image (To be like Jesus).Ç‚\ljÉE X€€€‚â”n4õ‰âЅÞ‰âËy`/‰‚ân4õ‰ã^N‰‚‚ÿHis general will for all believers all believers is that they become SONS (see Ephesians 1:3-6 and Romans 8:29-30). Jesus is the pattern Son who is the express Image of God and we are to follow Him in bearing forth this image. He desires our worship and fellowship and intimacy - from this place of sonship we will rule in the inheritance He has for us in the nations.;ÂÇÄÉ& €*€€‚ÿ(2) To Be Blessed.Þ„‰É¢ÌZ ‚€ €€‚€âхÞ‰â%z`/‰âz`/‰âz`/‰âz`/‰âz`/‰‚â z`/‰âЅÞ‰‚‚ÿIt's God's will for us all to be blessed so we can be a blessing in the nations. The basic blessing of the Lord to Adam and Eve (Genesis 1:27-28 ) is repeated through Noah ,Abraham, Isaac, Jacob and Joseph. This flow of blessing has not stopped! Through Christ, we too are partakers of it! (See Galatians 3:14 and Ephesians 1:3-6).This blessing is not just spiritual (salvation, forgiveness etc..) but also material - God wants to bless us in our work so we can use all the resources to be a blessing to others and extend the Kingdom of God. This blessing also speaks of God's empowering us by His Spirit to do His will.&ÄÉÈÌ# €€€‚ÿl:¢Ì4Í2 4€t€€âm4õ‰âCt4õ‰‚ÿ(3) To Be Fruitful (Bear the Fruit of the Spirit).äÈÌQÏ9 @€É€€‚âm4õ‰â!z`/‰âCt4õ‰‚‚‚ÿTo display a fruitful character full of His spiritual blessings (see Galatians 5:22-23 - see this quote by D.L.Moody).This is the blessing we receive from God because we are His children. It may be fruit in terms of spiritual blessings or even physical blessings. It is this blessing that we are not to hoard for ourselves but to channel into the nations (just as Abraham was blessed to be a blessing to 'all families' (ie. all people groups outside our immediate group)).èÂ4ÍE& €…€€‚‚‚ÿWe must all align our lives with this original intention of God for us - to be a blessing to other nations by recieving His fruitful blQÏEmÂessings and channeling them where they are not known.AQφ, (€*€€âm4õ‰‚ÿ(4) To Multiply ЧEV) €O€€‚€‚‚ÿWe must multiply as cells in the body do. We do this first and foremost through evangelism. In the Old Testament we see this multiplication of the Israelites locally wherever they were (eg. Exodus 1:12). In the early church too we see this local multiplication (see Acts 2:47). It's God's general will for us to all be 'multiplying' ourselves through witnessing to our friends and neighbours in friendship evangelism.U)†«, (€R€€âm4õ‰‚ÿ(5) To fill the earth and subdue it.»|Vf? L€ù€€‚âm4õ‰ân4õ‰â"z`/‰‚‚â¢u4õ‰‚ÿTo fill the earth with peoples in His Image - through missions (See Matthew 28:19-20). This will happen not as a result of all our efforts but because He has promised it!We must align our lives with the MAIN focus of discipling the nations. This may not mean going cross-culturally personally, but it does mean our focus must be to reach the unreached with the Good News of the Kingdom so the earth may be filled with woshipping communities of believers. We must be WORLD CHRISTIANS with WORLD VISION, so all we do will be WORLD IMPACTING (eg. Mary's seemingly foolish action of pouring out the Spikenard on Jesus' feet was condoned by Jesus and He said it would touch all nations - see Mark 14:3-9, especially the last verse. She had linked in with the missions heart-beat of God, knowing He must be anointed for burial as a sacrifice for mankind, redeeming them to Himself.)ûÒ«a) €¥€€‚€‚‚ÿOur prayer is not 'Am I called to missions ?' but it is 'What is my part in God's mission ?' - all Christians living in His will should be evangelizing, discipling and furthering His mission in the world.Ff§, (€4€€â>m4õ‰‚ÿ(6) To Have Dominion.Oäaö k €€É€€‚€€â#z`/‰‚‚ã^N‰â-g4õ‰âþf4õ‰‚‚ã^N‰â.g4õ‰â.g4õ‰ã^N‰â/g4õ‰ãN‰‚ÿWe are called not just to be survivors but OVERCOMERS (See Scriptures About OVERCOMERS).We are to gain the Inheritance God has for us by overcoming. The Bible shows us that we will all be rewarded when Christ returns according to our faithfulness to his call (see 1 Corinthians 3:13-15). This faithful nature is essential to the overcomer (See Revelation 17:14).If we are to fully grasp hold on that which He has laid hold on us we will join in Jesus' Inheritance in the nations (See Psalm 2:8-9). The inheritance as mentioned in Psalm 2:8-9 is for Jesus. But there is a way that we join Him in this Inheritance among the nations. The answer is found in Romans 8:17-18: we are to SUFFER with Him (i.e. pick up our cross and follow Him). This suffering will particularly come when we determine to follow His will when it clashes with our own - part of this suffering will be leaving our comfort zones to sow our lives in His missionary purpose for the world.µ§ý R r€k€‚H€‚âЅÞ‰âvy`/‰ây`/‰‚‚â$z`/‰‚‚‚‚€ƒãÒîr€‰‚ÿOnce again read Ephesians 1:3-6,Ephesians 1:7-12 and Ephesians 1:13-14 and identify these purposes of God for us. Think about/discuss each area in more detail as to how every Christian should be involved in all these things. How do you personally measure up ?Click here for a proposed Group Excercise.Now you are ready to continue your study by going on to the next section.·God's Specific Will : ANT-LIKE CALLING.(ö %% €€‚H€‚ÿ_:ý „% €t€‚H€‚ÿOr if you have already done that you can go back to....W(%Û/ .€P€‚H€ƒããÛêA€‰‚ÿ·God's General and Specific Will.(„% €€‚H€‚ÿ(Û+% €€‚H€‚ÿ(S% €€‚H€‚ÿ(+{% €€‚H€‚ÿ)S€% €€‚H€‚ÿ ({Ì% €€‚H€‚ÿ(€ @% €€‚H€‚ÿÌ @mÂ(Ì4@% €€‚H€‚ÿ8 @l@1tÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿ.l@ã@zTopic12w4@ã@\ ˆ€8€€†F€ÀCQt*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+NEXT.WAV€†"€€ €‚ÿThe Little Picture.\l@?CM h€€€‚âøy`/‰‚‚€€‚‚â m4õ‰â–n4õ‰â m4õ‰âùy`/‰‚ÿ Click here to view the ARROW DIAGRAM againGroup or individual Activity: Looking at the Arrow Diagram again, which area of the diagram is this section referring to ? Why ? What would happen if the garden (sphere of ministry) was outside the big arrow ? Why is the use of an ANT very relevant here ? (Look at the Ant Scripture). Think about/discuss the characteristics of an ant that make it so apt in describing God's specific calling on each Christian as see in Genesis 2 (again look at Genesis 2:15-18).àã@ZE; D€Á€€‚ãÕ N‰‚‚ã—N‰‚‚€€‚ÿThink about/discuss how the GARDEN OF EDEN may represent each Christian's SPECIFIC calling from God (the vehicle from which each of us may accomplish His Eagle-Like Vision). List out lessons learnt.God calls us back to His garden of delights - it's the King's Garden. It's His purpose for our life.In Chapter one of Genesis we see God give a general overview of His purpose for Adam which is relevant to all of us today. We all need this WORLD-VISION as Christians.Ù‘?C3HH ^€#€€‚‚‚€âšt4õ‰âPz`/‰‚€âšt4õ‰‚‚â›y`/‰‚ÿIn Chapter two of Genesis we see God giving Adam a specific calling as his part in accomplishing the overall vision. A specific job to do. This shows us a pattern that is relevant to us today...(1) God PLANTED the garden. ( Genesis 2:8 )God initiated Adam's vocation by PLANTING the garden SPECIFICALLY for him and even PUT Adam there. It's all of God!We all have a 'sphere of calling' a 'garden' the Lord had created for us to walk in (Ephesians 2:10). We must not presume what His ministry is for us but get to the place where we let Him put us in the place He's planted for us. This is what we will learn how to do in the next lesson.Œ•ZEïJ' €+€€‚‚‚‚ÿThis vocation must be used specifically to further God's missionary plan for the world, to see worshipping communities in every tongue, tribe and nation. It may not be that you are called to live cross-culturally, but it does mean that what you do for a living must further God's missions mandate somehow.For some it will be the traditional missionary calling, for others it may be to use their business to bless missions work in some form. The list of possibilities is endless and God is highly creative in calling His Sons into endless varieties of vocations to complete His vision of seeing people from every people group worshipping before His throne!ß©3HÎN6 :€S€€‚€âùy`/‰‚€‚‚‚‚‚ÿ(2) Adam had a SPECIFIC task ( Genesis 2:15-18)Adam was to tend (cultivate) and keep (watch over) his sphere of calling. We are to tend the garden (ministry) God gives us and watch over it so no enemy creeps in. According to the GARDEN / VINEYARD that God put us in we will each have specific things to do unique to our gifting and calling.Later, as you discover the gifting God has equipped you with, you will see a pattern emerging that will reveal the nature of God's job for you. For example, if the apostolic gifting is very prominent then you will specifically be called to be involved in a Church Planting capacity in unreached areas. If you have a strong gift of administration you may well be involved in some form of missions support and organisation. Your spiritual gifts are the TOOLS to help you tend the garden God has placed you in. The nature of the tools will determine the nature of the job and vice verca.MïJ': B€'€€‚€€‚âõy`/‰âÌu4õ‰‚‚‚ÿ (3) Adam had a SPECIFIC word from God.He was not to eat of one tree. God gives us His 'logos' (general Word of God) but also 'Rhema' (specific, quickened word of God to us for our ministry- as used in Romans 10:17 - see this quote). BreaÎN'4@king this word means expulsion from the ministry.There will be foundational revelation words that God gives us. We must seek the Lord as to what they mean practically and determine to allign our lives with His revelation, otherwise we will forfeit our inheritance in the nations.s!ÎNšƒR r€C€€‚€âœt4õ‰€‚âœt4õ‰âGz`/‰âHz`/‰âIz`/‰‚‚âœt4õ‰‚ÿ(4) There was ONE Tree Of Life.The Tree Of Life was God's perfect will, but he was free to eat of any other tree except the forbidden one(See Genesis 2:9 and Genesis 2:16). This speaks of God's Good and Acceptable will (See Romans 12:2).We should seek His perfect will - the Tree Of Life(look at this link and consider the spiritual applications). All other threes, except the forbidden one, are good and acceptable and the Lord will favour us as we partake of them, but the sweetest of all is the Tree Of Life (His wisdom).¿‰'Y†6 :€€€‚‚‚€âùy`/‰‚€‚‚‚ÿWe must ask for God's wisdom to constantly partake of the Tree of Life (that pathway that is God's best for us and the most pleasurable and satisfying).(5) God provided a HELPER for Adam.(Genesis 2:15-18)God is for team-work. He doesn't want us to go it alone in our calling but will provide co-labourers be it a wife or ministry partner/s. Notice again that it is all of God. Adam tried to find a helper from among the animals, but all this seeking in his own ability was to no avail. Eventually it was God who brought his helper to him! We must pray for those we are to co-labour with and learn to see those who God is bringing to us.n:šƒLj4 6€u€€‚‚‚€â>m4õ‰‚€‚ÿAgain, these teams must align all they do in the light of God's mission - to fill the earth with people bearing His image. Constant guard must be made against Satan tempting one partner to fall into the temptation that can be summarized as the spirit of Babel, to eat of the tree of Knowledge of Good and Evil, to seek for personal power and recognition at the expense of doing God's will.(6) Adam named things and had DOMINION over them.Within our particular 'sphere of calling' we are to have authority and 'name' things, exercising our God-given dominion.9ýY†‹< F€û€€‚‚‚ãmN‰‚‚€‚€âJz`/‰‚ÿYou will find that in other areas you will not have the same level of authority or sense of dominion -if you are moving outside of God's call then you will not experience this anointing of authority and victory.God's specific call on your life is actually your apprenticeship, your training for ruling and reigning with Him in the Millenium.(7) The Garden had BOUNDARIES.We are not to stray outside of our ministry boundaries and step on others toes! (Paul knew this concept in Romans 15:20).ëLj- (€×€€‚âÏu4õ‰‚‚‚ÿBoundaries are there for a reason. Just as vineyards needed a hedge around them to protect the vines from wild animals and disease (see Isaiah 5:2) so we need to move within a hedge of protection.We must know what God has called us to, but equally what He has NOT called us to (that which is not in the boundaries of His calling to us). If we move outside our boundaries, not only will we step on other's toes but we will lose focus and not be as effective as God has made us to be.r,‹ŠŽF Z€Y€‚H€‚€€‚‚âLz`/‰‚‚‚‚€ƒããÛêA€‰‚ÿGroup or Individual Activity: Discuss in more detail each area. Think about /discuss how you personally measure up to these 7 areas.Click here for a proposed Group Excercise.Now you have finished this section go back and re-cap and then continue...·God's General and Specific Will.(²Ž% €€‚H€‚ÿ(ŠŽڎ% €€‚H€‚ÿ(²Ž% €€‚H€‚ÿ(ڎ*% €€‚H€‚ÿ(R% €€‚H€‚ÿ(*z% €€‚H€‚ÿ1R«1ÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿ/ÿÿÿÿ«À\zÀV |€€€†F€ÀCg*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV†"€€‚«Àzÿ1«DÀ1®ÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿ0ÿÿÿÿDÀÁšÀGÂi  €5€€†F€ÀC™j*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV‚â n4õ‰ân4õ‰‚ân4õ‰‚‚‚‚ân4õ‰‚ÿ"Then the Lord God took the man and put him in the garden of Eden(delight) to tend (cultivate) and keep (watch over) it.And the Lord God commanded the man saying,'Of every tree of thegarden you may freely eat; but of the tree of the knowledge of goodAnd evil you shall not eat, for in the day that you eat of it youShall surely die.'And the Lord God said,'It is not good that man be alone;zGDÀÁÂ3 6€Ž€€ân4õ‰ân4õ‰‚€‚ÿI will make him a helper comparable to him.'"Genesis 2:15-181GÂòÂ1$ÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿ1ÿÿÿÿòÂåÃó‹ÁÂåÃh ž€€€†F€ÀCõd*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAVâdm4õ‰‚âem4õ‰âfm4õ‰âgm4õ‰‚€‚ÿ"So God blessed Noah and his sons, and said to them: 'Be fruitful and multiply, and fill the earth.."Genesis 9:1 (NKJV)1òÂÄ1ÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿ2ÿÿÿÿÄÆëåÃÆ[ „€!€€†F€ÀCÝl*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV‚‚‚âdm4õ‰‚‚‚‚€‚ÿ"Now the Lord had said to Abraham; 'Get out of your country,From your kindred and from your Father's house,To a land I will show you. I will make you a great nation;I will bless you and make your name great;And you shall be a blessing. I will bless those who bless youAnd I will curse him who curses you; and in you all the familiesOf the earth shall be blessed."Genesis 12:1-3 (NKJV)1Ä2Æ1êÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿ3ÿÿÿÿ2ÆëǹZÆëÇ_ Œ€µ€€†F€ÀC!o*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAVâdm4õ‰âfm4õ‰‚‚‚‚‚€‚ÿ"..in blessing I will bless you, and in multiplying I will multiply yourDecendants as the stars of the heaven and as the sand which is onThe seashore; and your descendants shall possess the gate of their enemies.In your seed all the nations of the earth shall be blessed, because you haveObeyed my voice."Genesis 22:17-18 (NKJV) 12ÆÈ1âÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿ4ÿÿÿÿÈÍɱLëÇÍÉe ˜€™€€†F€ÀCAu*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAVâdm4õ‰âem4õ‰âfm4õ‰‚‚‚‚‚€‚ÿ"May God Almighty bless you , and make you fruitful and multiply you,That you may be an assembly of peoples;And give you the blessings of Abraham, That you and your descendants with you may inherit theLand in which you are a stranger, which God gave to Abraham."Genesis 28:3-4 (NKJV) (Spoken over Jacob by Isaac)1ÈþÉ1€ÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿ5ÿÿÿÿþÉMËOúÍÉMËU x€õ€€†F€ÀC z*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAVâem4õ‰‚€‚ÿ"Joseph is a fruitful bough, a fruitful bough by a well...the Almighty who will bless you with blessings from heaven above.. the blessings of your father have excelled the blessings of my ancestors.."Genesis 49:22-26 (Selected verses) (NKJV)1þÉ~Ë1)ÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿ6ÿÿÿÿ~ËvÌøšMËvÌP n€Q€€†F€ÀC™€*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV‚‚€‚ÿ"..that the blessing of Abraham might come upon the Gentiles in Christ Jesus,That we might receive the promise of the Spirit through faith."Galatians 3:14 (NKJV)1~˧Ì1<ÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿ7ÿÿÿÿ§Ì²Í ºv̲ÍQ p€u€€†F€ÀC݂*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV‚‚‚€‚ÿ"But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, kindness,Goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control. Against such there Is no law."Galatians 5:22-23 (NKJV)1§ÌãÍ1¡ÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿ8ÿÿÿÿãÍSÏp²ÍSÏS t€;€€†F€ÀCu‡*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV‚‚‚‚‚€‚ÿ"Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations,Baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son And of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all things That I have commanded you; and lo, I am with you always,Even to the end of the age."Matthew 28:19-20 (NKJV)1ãÍ„Ï1•ÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿ9ÿÿÿÿ„Ïy'ÊSÏ·] ˆ€•€€†F€ÀC¹‰*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV€€‚‚‚‚‚‚‚‚‚‚‚‚‚ÿCALLED TO BE OVERCOMERS"T„Ï·SÏo him who overcomes I will give to eat from the tree of life which is in the midst of the Paradise of God"Revelation 2:7 (NKJV)"He who overcomes shall not be hurt by the second death."Revelation 2:11 (NKJV)"To him who overcomes I will give some of the hidden manna to eat. And I will give him a white stone, and on the stone a new name.."Revelation 2:17 (NKJV)"And he who overcomes and keeps My works until the end,„Ïy3 4€€€‚‚‚‚‚‚‚‚‚‚‚‚€‚ÿTo him I will give the power over the nations-"Revelation 2:26 (NKJV)"He who overcomes will be clothed in white garments..."Revelation 3:5 (NKJV)"He who overcomes, I will make him a pillar in the temple of God..."Revelation 3:12 (NKJV)"To him who overcomes I will grant to sit with Me on My throne, As I also overcame and sat down with my Father on His throne."Revelation 3:21 (NKJV)1·ª1 ÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿ:ÿÿÿÿª‚kyO l€9€€†F€ÀC…w*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV‚‚‚‚‚ÿOne idea for a group activity is to divide the group into four and give them each one of the four areas of God's general vision for us (to be conformed to His image, to be fruitful, to multiply or to be overcomers)Each group must then talk about how their section relates to every Christian today and come up with a TV ad stating what the Christian will need to be like this.Do it in the form of a TV advertisement - eg. 'As a Christian are you wanting to be more like Jesus - Word products has just what you're looking for...' etc.mFª‚' €Œ€€‚€‚ÿMark each team on creativity, relevance and group participation. 1³1÷ÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿ;ÿÿÿÿ³yÆw‚yO n€î€€†F€ÀCé|*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV‚‚€‚ÿ"The Lord God planted a garden eastward in Eden, And there He put the man whom He had formed."Genesis 2:8 (NKJV)1³ª1dÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿ<ÿÿÿÿªÝ3ãyÝP n€Ç€€†F€ÀC•*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV‚‚€‚ÿ"And out of the ground the Lord God made every tree grow that isPleasant to the sight and good for food. The tree of life was also in the midst of the garden,and the tree of knowledge of good and evil."Genesis 2:9 (NKJV)1ª 1öÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿ=ÿÿÿÿ Ó ÅvÝÓ O n€ì€€†F€ÀCù—*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV‚‚€‚ÿ"And the Lord God commanded the man,saying,'Of every tree of theGarden you may freely eat'".Genesis 2:16 (NKJV)1  1Iÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿ>ÿÿÿÿ  ÀÓ  X ~€€€†F€ÀC=š*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV‚‚‚â`m4õ‰‚€‚ÿ"And do not be conformed to this world,But be transformed by the renewing of your mind,That you may prove what is that good and acceptableAnd perfect will of God."Romans 12:2 (NKJV)1 M 1ÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿ?ÿÿÿÿM 8 ëš 8 Q p€5€€†F€ÀCœ*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV‚‚‚€‚ÿ"And so I have made it my aim to preach the gospel,Not where Christ is named, lest I should build on Another man's foundation;"Romans 15:20 (NKJV)8M p 1šÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿ@p ç ƒTopic13w'8 ç P p€N€€†F€ÀC5Ÿ*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+NEXT.WAV€ €‚ÿAll of Us Are Saved To Be Called.|Dp c8 >€‹€€‚†"€‚‚€€‚‚‚ÿGroup or Individual Activity: Look at the new ARROW diagram and think about/talk about the three specific areas of calling. Where do you feel you fit in if at all ? Is it possible to be outside of the big arrow as a Christian ? Should this be so ?In this lesson we will see how every Christian can be involved in God's Big Picture. We can all be 'missionaries' in the sense that we are contributing to His overall 'mission' whether we go or stay. Our lives must be aligned so that we are withing the arrow of His Big Picture so that our lives will not 'miss the mark'. Àç /B3 4€€€‚âwy`/‰âMz`/‰‚‚‚ÿIt is a common misconception among Christians that only a select few can have a 'call' and only those ic/B8 n 'full-time christian work' (i.e. Church worker / missionary etc..) have a 'call'. The Scriptural truth is that ALL Christians are 'saved and called' (2 Timothy 1:9) - God desires for all to be saved (1 Timothy 2:4) and that means that all mankind potentially are called.Every Christian is called to be more like Christ, to mature spiritually in character, to have a heart for the lost (and be actively involved in evangelism/discipleship), a burden for the World (Missions heart) and be actively pursuing that vision whatever their call.Ác1DA P€ƒ€€‚âNz`/‰âOz`/‰âyy`/‰‚‚â{z`/‰‚‚‚ÿBut the truth is 'many are called but few are chosen' (Matthew 20:16) - this means that He calls, or invites many to step into His will, but few respond to follow His GOOD PLEASURE (2 Thessalonians 1:11 and Philippians 2:13).Scripture shows us that every legitimate occupation of life is in a significant sense a calling from God (see1 Corinthians 7:20).Following is a chart that shows the spectrum of callings in the early church...&/BWD# €€€‚ÿ01D‡D, (€ €€†"€‚ÿ-óWDŽF: B€ç€€‚€€â+g4õ‰‚‚€€‚‚ÿGroup or Individual Activity: Look at the chart about the spectrum of callings in the early church. How do these areas fit into the three circles on the arrow diagram ? Think about / discuss. Does this surprise you ? Think again as to which area you feel you fit into (You can always refer again to the Second Arrow Diagram.).THE THREE SPHERES DIAGRAM.Look at the following diagram showing what specific callings could be within each of the three spheres and in the overlapping areas...&‡DÚF# €€€‚ÿ0ŽF G, (€ €€†"€)‚ÿ%èÚF/I= H€Ñ€€‚‚‚‚‚â}4õ‰‚â}4õ‰‚â}4õ‰‚ÿTake time to consider each area in the diagram and the particular roles that contribute to God's overall vision of seeing the earth filled with people bearing His image, ruling and reigning in justice and righteousness. Look at the various words used for each role and try to envisage what each one practically does (use the popup descriptions below to help).Frontier Missions and Regular Missions.Nonresidential Missionary.Bridge People - Trainers, Mobilizers,Motivators.-È G\Ke ˜€‘€â}4õ€‰‚â…{4õ‰‚‚âÿ|4õ‰‚‚€€‚‚‚‚âsz`/‰â›y`/‰âtz`/‰‚‚âuz`/‰âvz`/‰‚ÿBusiness For Missions and Tentmaking.Senders (Which includes Givers and Prayers).Click here to view the three spheres diagram again.WE ALL HAVE A SPECIFIC INDIVIDUAL CALL.Together, read through the following and look at the scriptures carefully....(1) He has a definite will for my life. ( Psalm 32:8,Ephesians 2:10,Hebrews 12:1)(2) God desires us to know His will (Ephesians 5:17) and enables us to do so (Colossians 1:9).u$/IÑMQ p€I€€‚âwz`/‰‚‚âxz`/‰‚‚âyz`/‰âzz`/‰‚‚â£u4õ‰‚‚â}4õ‰‚ÿ(3) His will is continuous (from mother's womb - doesn't begin at 30!). (Isaiah 58:11).(4) His will is specific. (Isaiah 30:21)(5) God's will for us is profitable. (Joshua 1:8,Psalm 1:1-3).(6) His will can be outworked in the specific vocation we find ourself in if it is done from the heart, not as men-pleasers but God-pleasers.(Ephesians 6:5-8).(7) His specific will for us will always be an important,strategic part of accomplishing His overall missions purpose in the earth - a part of His Big Picture! (James 4:13-15) Д\K­€< F€)€€‚€€‚‚âŠz`/‰‚â+g4õ‰‚‚‚ÿGroup or Individual Activity: Look again at the above list and think about / discuss each point then pray (together if you are in a group) that you will hear His call and heed His call. Be open to words of prophecy, knowledge, visions etc.. which must be tested.Click here for a proposed Group Excercise.(You can always refer again to the Second Arrow Diagram).Having been through this lesson no Christian can say they are not called. God is actively calling each one of us and has beeÑM­€8 n doing so from before our birth. The question is will we arise to 'seize the day' and be effective in the area God is calling to within His overall purpose ? ?çÑMìX ~€Ï€‚H€‚ÈEF(`bigpic5.htm',`',1)€‰€‚‚‚€ƒãäÛêA€‰‚ÿClick here to access the Self-Assessment test for this lesson - this will help you make sure you took to heart the main points.You are now ready to go onto the next lesson...·LESSON 2: How To See and Hear God'sWill.(­€‚% €€‚H€‚ÿ(ì<‚% €€‚H€‚ÿ(‚d‚% €€‚H€‚ÿ(<‚Œ‚% €€‚H€‚ÿ(d‚Ž‚% €€‚H€‚ÿ(Œ‚܂% €€‚H€‚ÿ(Ž‚ƒ% €€‚H€‚ÿ1܂5ƒ1AÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿAÿÿÿÿ5ƒE†ÌƒO…N j€™€€†F€ÀCZ*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV‚‚‚‚ÿFor this group activity you need about 5 hoola hoops per team, each representing a unique area/sphere of ministry. They are spaced apart so it is difficult but possible to pass a straw from knee to knee.Each team must pass the straw through the chain of team members (each person in a hoop, they cannot go outside) until it reaches the last member who must put it in a bucket. If it drops or someone breaks the rules it goes back to the previous person.öÌ5ƒE†* "€™€€‚‚‚€‚ÿThe winning team is the quickest (all start together).Afterwards you must have a session for sharing back what lessons you learnt about areas of calling, vision etc... (get as much out as you can).1O…v†1çÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿBÿÿÿÿv†,‡¶gE†,‡O n€Î€€†F€ÀCé_*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV‚‚€‚ÿ"Who desires all men to be saved And to come to the knowledge of the truth."1 Timothy 2:4 (NKJV)1v†]‡1ÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿCÿÿÿÿ]‡Hˆë”,‡HˆW |€)€€†F€ÀCMh*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV‚â¢z`/‰‚‚€‚ÿ"So the last will be first, and the first last. For many are called(kletos), but few chosen".Matthew 20:16 (NKJV) (see also Matthew 22:14)1]‡yˆ1CÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿDÿÿÿÿyˆ‹‰ÜHˆ‹‰6 :€¹€€‚â¢z`/‰âim4õ‰‚‚€‚ÿ"Therefore we also pray always for you that our God wouldCount you worthy of this calling(klesis), and fulfill all the good pleasureOf His goodness and the work of faith with power,"2 Thessalonians 1:11 (NKJV)1yˆŒ‰1,ÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿEÿÿÿÿŒ‰·Šû ‹‰·Š[ „€A€€†F€ÀC ¡*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAVâ¢z`/‰â¢z`/‰‚€‚ÿ"Let each one remain in the same calling(klesis) (secular employment included in the context) in which he was called(kaleo)."1 Corinthians 7:20 (NKJV)1Œ‰èŠ1ÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿFÿÿÿÿèŠD‹\·ŠD‹V |€€€†F€ÀCé£*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV†"€€‚ÿ1èŠu‹1òÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿGÿÿÿÿu‹6ŒÁrD‹6ŒO n€ä€€†F€ÀC-Š*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV‚‚€‚ÿ"I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go.I will guide you with my eye."Psalm 32:8 (NKJV)1u‹gŒ1pÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿHÿÿÿÿgŒŠ?í6ŒŠR r€Û€€†F€ÀCqš*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV‚‚‚‚€‚ÿ"Therefore we also, since we are surrounded by so great A cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight,And the sin that so easily ensnares us, and let usRun with endurance the race that is set before us."Hebrews 12:1 (NKJV)1gŒ׍1JÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿIÿÿÿÿ׍ðŽÁŠðŽX ~€ƒ€€†F€ÀCµª*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV‚â`m4õ‰‚‚‚€‚ÿ"Therefore do not be unwise,But understand what the will of the Lord is.And do not be drunk with wine, in which is dissipation;But be filled with the Spirit,"Ephesians 5:17-18 (NKJV)1׍!1ÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿJÿÿÿÿ!dÀ7ßðŽdÀX ~€¿€€†F€ÀCù¬*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV‚‚â’m4õ‰‚‚€‚ÿ"For this reason we also, since the day we heard it, Do not cease to pray for you, and to ask that you may beFilled with the knowle!dÀðŽdge of His will in all wisdom and Spiritual understanding."Colossians 1:9 (NKJV) 1!•À1[ÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿKÿÿÿÿ•À¿Á*ÖdÀ¿ÁT v€­€€†F€ÀCd*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV‚‚‚‚‚‚€‚ÿ"The Lord will guide you continually,And satisfy your soul in drought,And strengthen your bones;You shall be like a watered garden,And like a spring of water,Whose waters do not fail."Isaiah 58:11 (NKJV)1•ÀðÁ12ÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿLÿÿÿÿðÁñ¯¿ÁñÂR r€_€€†F€ÀC%f*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV‚‚‚‚€‚ÿ"Your ears shall hear a word behind you, saying,'This is the way, walk in it',Whenever you turn to the right handOr whenever you turn to the left."Isaiah 30:21 (NKJV)1ðÁ"Ã1’ÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿMÿÿÿÿ"ÃÄañƒÄR r€€€†F€ÀC‘j*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV‚‚‚‚€‚ÿ"This Book of the Law shall not depart from your mouth,But you shall meditate in it day and night, that you may observeTo do according to all that is written in it. For then you willMake your way prosperous, and then you will have good success."Joshua 1:8 (NKJV)1"ÃŽÄ1!ÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿNÿÿÿÿŽÄ€ÆðœƒÄ€ÆT v€9€€†F€ÀCÕl*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV‚‚‚‚‚‚€‚ÿ"Blessed is the man who walks not in the counsel of the ungodly,Nor stands in the path of sinners, nor sits in the seat of the scornful;But his delight is in the law of the Lord, and in His law he meditatesDay and night. He shall be like a tree planted by the rivers of water,That brings forth its fruit in its season, whose leaf shall not wither;And whatever he does shall prosper."Pslam 1:1-3 (NKJV)1ŽÄÕÆ1ÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿOÿÿÿÿÕÆ»È斀ƻÈP n€-€€†F€ÀCo*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV‚‚€‚ÿDraw three big, inter-locking circles and label them 'business', 'missions' and 'local church' - ask all group members to choose the one that best describes them. If they feel it's 2 or more then they need to stand in the over-lapping part.Someone write down the results and then together talk about the trends you see in your group. Is it good or bad ? What needs to be done in the light of this ? 1ÕÆìÈ1ÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿPÿÿÿÿìÈHÉ\»ÈHÉV |€€€†F€ÀCÝs*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV†"€€‚ÿ1ìÈyÉ1ÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿQÿÿÿÿyÉÕÉ\HÉÕÉV |€€€†F€ÀCÉy*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV†"€€‚ÿ1yÉÊ1ìÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿRÿÿÿÿÊÁÊ»lÕÉÁÊO n€Ø€€†F€ÀCa*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV‚‚€‚ÿ"Paul, a servant of Jesus, called to be an apostle,Separated to the gospel of God.."Romans 1:1 (NKJV)1ÊòÊ1xÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿSÿÿÿÿòÊ9Î1ËÁÊ#Íf š€—€€†F€ÀC¥*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV‚‚‚â@n4õ‰‚ân4õ‰‚‚â@n4õ‰‚‚‚‚ÿ"So I said,'Who are You, Lord ?' And He said,'I am Jesus, whom you are persecuting.But arise and stand on your feet; For I have appeared to you for this purpose,To make you a minister and a witness both of the Things which you have seen and of the Things which I will yet reveal to you.I will deliver you from the Jewish people,As well as from the Gentiles, to whom I now send you,To open their eyes and turn them from darkness to light,ÙòÊ9Î= H€³€€‚âm4õ‰âŽm4õ‰‚âäm4õ‰‚‚€‚ÿAnd from the power of Satan to God,That they may receive forgiveness of sinsAnd an inheritance among those who areSanctified by faith in Me.'"Acts 26:15-18 (NKJV) - The vision given to Paul (Then Saul)1#ÍjÎ1;ÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿTÿÿÿÿjÎB©9Îz[ „€S€€†F€ÀCu‡*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV€€‚‚‚‚€€‚ÿDEFINITION OF VISION.Both Hebrew and Greek words for Vision have the meaning of gazing wide and open eyed at something remarkable - awed by the beauty and filled with joy. It varies in meaning from being a very real, tangible experience to simply a mental perception.One Hebrew word (Roeh) is the same as the jÎz9Îname of a bird at that time, similar to a vulture. It was so called due to it's sharp eyes.Hebrew Words:áj΍2 2€Ã€€‚‚‚‚‚€€‚‚‚‚ÿ(1) Chazon (Noun,Strongs 2377) - Divine Revelation (eg. 1 Sam 3:1)(2) Chizzayon (Noun,Strongs 2384) - Prophetic 'vision' (eg.2 Sam 7:17)(3) Chazah (Verb,Strongs 2372) - To see, behold (eg.Prov 22:29)(4) Roeh (Strongs 7203) - A Seer or vision (eg.1 Sam 9:9; Isa 28:7)Greek Words:(1) Horama (Strongs 3705) - That which is seen: - A spectacle,Sight (eg. Matt 17:9 - Jesus transfigured) - Appearance, Vision ( Acts 9:10)µ‹zB* "€€€‚‚‚€‚ÿ(2) Horasis (Strongs 3706) - Sense of sight (eg. Acts 2:17; Rev 9:17)(3) Optasia (Strongs 3701) - The act of seeing (eg. Luke 24:23)1s1ñÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿUÿÿÿÿs3)ÖBœS t€­€€†F€ÀC!v*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV€€‚‚‚ÿDEFINITION OF CALLINGThe Biblical use of 'calling' refers to an INVITATION. It is an urging on,An inciting by words. It comes as an encouragement to do something and is a term particularly found in the New Testament. One's call is the invitation of Christ to enter fully into His vision! This is all purely by grace, and grace enables us to accomplish our call (Eph 2:8-10; 2 Thess 1:11-12). This invitation will be specific (as to the area of calling/gifting). —fs31 0€Í€€‚€€‚‚‚‚‚‚‚ÿGreek Words:(1) Kaleo (Verb,Strongs 2564)- To call anyone,invite,summons. (eg. Matt 20:8)(2) Klesis (Noun,Strongs 2821) - A heavenly calling/invitation (Rom 11:29)(3) Kletos ( Strongs 2822) - Called, Invited. (a) Call of the Gospel ( Matt 20:16) (b) Effectual Call (Rom 1:6-7; 8:28) (c) Appointment to ministry (Rom 1:1; 1 Cor 1:1)1œd1ÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿVÿÿÿÿdQí—3QV z€/€€†F€ÀC |*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAVâ¡z`/‰‚‚€‚ÿ"Where there is no prophetic vision(chazon) the people cast off restraint (or perish)But happy is he who keeps the law."Proverbs 29:18 (NKJV)1d‚1ŒÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿWÿÿÿÿ‚Ý [QÝ X ~€€€†F€ÀCí‰*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV‚â¢z`/‰‚‚‚€‚ÿ"But when it pleased God, who separated me from my mother's wombAnd called(kaleo) me through His grace, to reveal His Son in me,That I might preach Him among the Gentiles, I did not immediately confer with flesh and blood."Galatians 1:15-16 (NKJV)1‚ 1óÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿXÿÿÿÿ Ð Â]Ý Ð e ˜€»€€†F€ÀC±–*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV‚â’m4õ‰â n4õ‰‚‚â¢z`/‰‚‚€‚ÿI pray "that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of glory,May give to you the spirit of wisdom and revelation in the Knowledge of Him, the eyes of your understanding being enlightened;That you may know what is the hope of His calling(klesis), what are the Riches of His inheritance in the saints."Ephesians 1:17-18 (NKJV) 1  1`ÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿYÿÿÿÿ 0/ÛÐ 0T v€·€€†F€ÀCõ˜*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV‚‚‚‚‚‚€‚ÿ"Do you not say,'There are still four months and then comes the harvest '?Behold, I say to you, lift up your eyes and look at the fields,For they are already white unto harvest!"John 4:35 (NKJV)Jesus spoke this in Samaria as the multitude of Samaritans were just coming towards Him on the horizon in response to the Samaritan woman's report.The disciples would have been looking at Jesus, concerned only for Him, but Jesus directed their eyes beyond - to the lost.1 a1ÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿZÿÿÿÿaœ\0œV |€€€†F€ÀC9›*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV†"€€‚ÿ1aî1eÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿ[ÿÿÿÿî.@4âœ.@R r€Å€€†F€ÀC}*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV‚‚‚‚€‚ÿ"Then Saul arose from the ground,And when his eyes were opened he saw no one.But they led him by the hand and brought him into Damascus.And he was three days without sight, and neither atî.@œe nor drank."Acts 9:8-9 (NKJV)1î_@1ßÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿ\ÿÿÿÿ_@ A®_.@ AO n€Ÿ€€†F€ÀC=¯*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV‚‚€‚ÿ"And when they lifted up their eyes, They saw no one but Jesus only."Matthew 17:8 (NKJV)1_@>A1!ÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿ]ÿÿÿÿ>A.BðŸ A.BQ p€?€€†F€ÀCµ±*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV‚‚‚€‚ÿ"And Jesus said,'For judgement I have come into this world,That those who do not see may see,and that those who seeMay be made blind'."John 9:39 (NKJV)1>A_B1Ÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿ^ÿÿÿÿ_BÍCn.BÍCU x€3€€†F€ÀCù³*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV‚‚‚‚‚‚‚€‚ÿ"So I said,'What shall I do Lord ?' and the Lord said,'Arise and go into Damascus, and there you will be told all thingsWhich are appointed for you to do'"Acts 22:10 (NKJV)"Then He said to me,'Depart, for I will send you far from hereTo the Gentiles.'"Acts 22:21 (NKJV)1_BþC1ïÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿ_ÿÿÿÿþCŒDŸjÍCŒDT x€Ô€€†F€ÀC=¶*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAVâ¡z`/‰‚€‚ÿ"Therefore, King Agrippa, I was not disobedient to the heavenly vision(optasia)."Acts 26:19 (NKJV)8þCôD1ÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿ`ôDPEUŒTopic14\ŒDPEV |€€€†F€ÀCñž*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+NEXT.WAV€†"€ ‚ÿíôDjG- (€Û€€‚â,g4õ‰‚‚‚ÿIt must be noted that we are not talking about NATURAL seeing and hearing here, but SPIRITUAL. See Isaiah 11:2-4 and note what true spiritual seeing and hearing entail as opposed to the natural.Our first calling is to God Himself - so that would make the overall condition for seeing and hearing that of INTIMACY / RELATIONSHIP with Him. As we know Him we will know His will for us. The closer we are to Him, the clearer we will see His ways and the louder we will hear His heartbeat.ÓPE}I@ N€§€€‚€€ã.N‰ãçN‰‚âÏu4õ‰‚‚‚ÿGroup or Individual Activity: See The Vocation of the Natural Life - a quote from Oswald Chambers, and discuss what it means to you. How does it reflect the above comments ? Look also at this article onThe Devotion of Hearing and comment on what you learn.Read also this Quote by Andrew Murray and likewise discuss it's meaning in the light of the above.In order for us to know and walk in God's general (VISION) and specific (CALLING) will we must...&jG£I# €€€‚ÿj>}I J, (€|€€â¥z`/‰‚ÿ(a) Open Our Spiritual Eyes And Ears.(Ephesians 1:17-18 )`£ImLA P€?€€‚âUg4õ‰âVg4õ‰‚âdn4õ‰‚‚€€‚‚ÿWe must pray that we would have willing hearts to want to know and do His will! (See 2 Chronicles 16:9 and John 7:17)Remember that this will render us 'blind' in the world's perspective...this is truly walking by faith - 'For we walk by faith, not by sight' - 2 Corinthians 5:7 (See this Quote).Group or Individual Activity: Read through the verses above and write out what it means to have open eyes and ears spiritually. Think about/discuss ways we can practically go about opening our spiritual eyes and ears. Pray about it.& J“L# €€€‚ÿK%mLÞL& €J€€‚ÿ(b) Yield To What We See And Hear. Í“LëN@ N€›€€‚‚â¢y`/‰âWg4õ‰âXg4õ‰‚‚€€‚ÿWe must be a servant to His will and die to our own power, possessions, plans and personal rights. He does not guide those that want to run their own life, but those who admit their need for His direction and rely on His wisdom.(See Matthew 26:39,Matthew 10:37-39,Psalm 25:9).Group or Individual Activity: What does one have to do to REALLY see and REALLY hear in the natural ? Talk about/discuss this question and then apply it to the spiritual.›wÞL†O$ €î€€‚‚ÿHow can you take practical steps to yield (focus in on and act upon) what the Lord is showing and speaking to you ?EëNËO& €>€€‚ÿ(c) See And Hear As A Child.O†O&: B€+€€‚âYg4õ‰âZg4õ‰‚‚€€ËO&ŒD‚‚ÿWe must hear and listen as a child does even though it means being counted as a fool. (See Matthew 11:25,1 Corinthians 3:18-19).Group or Individual activity:Think about/discuss how a child sees and hears. List out all their positive qualities that we must emulate.U/ËO{& €^€€‚ÿ(d) Have Unblocked Hearing And Clear Vision.µ{&0ƒ: B€÷€€‚â\g4õ‰â[g4õ‰‚‚€€‚‚ÿThis means having a clean concience from the past (Matthew 5:8) and also not having a judgemental spirit (Matthew 7:3).Group or Individual activity:Think about/discuss what can 'blind' us or 'blur' our spiritual vision and what can block our spiritual ears. What practical steps can we take to unblock our spiritual ears and clear out our impaired spiritual vision ?_9{ƒ& €r€€‚ÿ(e) You Must Die To All Visions/Callings Of The World.Í…0ƒ\†H ^€ €€‚€ã2N‰âÉu4õ‰‚‚€€âØe4õ‰âÙe4õ‰‚ÿThere may be other securities/strengths that you are clinging on to (have a vision for) that may actually hinder you from seeing His vision and hearing His calling. This includes dying to our own Self-Sufficiency (see this quote).Group or Individual Activity: Read Isaiah 6:1-8 and note the timing that Isaiah received his vision and calling - 'In the year King Uzziah died'. Why is it significant that God came with His vision and calling at this period of time and not earlier ? Read also 2 Chronicles 26:11-16. Talk about what Uzziah's need to die for us to be fully released to see and hear the Lord's vision and calling.ޏƒnˆ4 6€œ€€‚âхÞ‰‚‚‚ãN‰‚ÿNote what the content of Isaiah's Vision (What he saw) was and how it correlates with that the Lord originally gave in Genesis 1:27-28. Talk about /discuss.Also note that after Isaiah had this vision, the Lord SPOKE (i.e. he received a calling). What was his calling ? (read in your bible the next section of Isaiah 6 (verses 9-13). Is this general or specific ?Lastly, read this article on The Voice Of The Nature of God. and comment on the things you learn from it.üª\†j‰R r€U€‚H€‚‚‚€ƒãªïr€‰‚€ƒã«ïr€‰‚€ƒã&N€‰‚ÿYou are now ready to go to one of the other topics...·Faulty Hearing and Seeing.·Ways We Can See and Hear God's Will.·Testing What We See And Hear.(nˆ’‰% €€‚H€‚ÿ[5j‰íŠ& €k€‚H€‚ÿTake time to pause and pray for the Lord to help you in the area of hearing and seeing Him and His ways. God gives us all we need to be able to have clarity of spiritual hearing and spiritual seeing, but we must make sure we are doing the right things and have unimpeded hearing and vision to do His will. (’‰‹% €€‚H€‚ÿxM튍‹+ &€š€‚H€ãåÛêA‰‚ÿIf you have finished all these topics you are ready for the Next Lesson.(‹µ‹% €€‚H€‚ÿ(‹݋% €€‚H€‚ÿ(µ‹Œ% €€‚H€‚ÿ(݋-Œ% €€‚H€‚ÿ(ŒUŒ% €€‚H€‚ÿ8-ŒŒ1ÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿaŒéŒEÎTopic15\UŒéŒV |€€€†F€ÀCña*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+NEXT.WAV€†"€‚ÿ7Œ 5 8€€€‚€‚€‚‚‚€€‚ÿ(1) Faulty Hearing (Calling):In this lesson we will look at passages of Scripture that reveal how we may have blocked spiritual ears or impaired spiritual sight. These faults in hearing and seeing must be dealt with if we are to successfully follow God's plan for our life. Group or Individual Activity: Read through the following verses and write down what causes faulty spiritual hearing according to the passage. Discuss how this could happen in your life and what things you can do to prevent this.æ²éŒÀ4 6€e€‚H€‚€ƒâÚe4õ€‰‚ÿ·Micah 7:16 - What seems to be the cause of deafness here ? Why would this cause one to be dull of hearing God's voice ? Could this happen to Christians today ? Disc ÀUŒuss.( :À% €€‚H€‚ÿêºÀ$Á0 .€u€‚H€ƒâÑe4õ€‰‚ÿ·Hebrews 5:11-14 - What has caused them to be dull of hearing ? What does the author say that they have not been doing and need to do ? Can this happen to you ? What must you do ?(:ÀLÁ% €€‚H€‚ÿÙ©$Á%Â0 .€S€‚H€ƒâÒe4õ€‰‚ÿ·Isaiah 66:12 -What was their response when God called ? Why did they not hear ? If they continue like this what will happen ? Is this applicable today ? Discuss.(LÁMÂ% €€‚H€‚ÿç·%Â4Ã0 .€o€‚H€ƒâÓe4õ€‰‚ÿ·2 Timothy 4:3-4 - What kind or ears do they have here ? What does this mean ? They turn their ears from the truth because they seek what ? How can this happen today ? Discuss.(MÂ\Ã% €€‚H€‚ÿ Ù4ÃeÄ0 .€³€‚H€ƒâÔe4õ€‰‚ÿ·Acts 7:51 -What does it mean to be uncircumcised in ear ? (think about what circumcision means). What is the result of an uncircumcised ear ? What is the remedy ? Give examples in this day of such a condition.(\ÍÄ% €€‚H€‚ÿœeÄJÅ0 .€€‚H€ƒâÕe4õ€‰‚ÿ·Romans 10:14 - What is the cause for these people not hearing the Lord's call ? What can we do to prevent such a situation ? Discuss.(ÄrÅ% €€‚H€‚ÿCJŵÅ% €<€‚H€‚ÿ(2) Faulty Seeing (Vision):(rÅÝÅ% €€‚H€‚ÿðµÅöÆ) €á€‚H€€‚ÿGroup or Individual Activity: Read through the following verses and write down what causes faulty spiritual seeing (VISION) according to the passage. Discuss how this could happen in your life and what things you can do to prevent this.(ÝÅÇ% €€‚H€‚ÿܬöÆúÇ0 .€Y€‚H€ƒâÖe4õ€‰‚ÿ·1 John 2:11 - What causes spiritual blindness here ? Is it possible for a christian to lack vision from the Lord for the same reason ? Explain. What is the remedy ?(Ç"È% €€‚H€‚ÿøÈúÇÉ0 .€‘€‚H€ƒâ×e4õ€‰‚ÿ·1 John 2:16- What kind of eyes are mentioned here ? These eyes will not see vision form God. Just as Job made a covenant with his eyes so must we - Discuss what such a covenant may consist of.("ÈBÉ% €€‚H€‚ÿקÉÊ0 .€O€‚H€ƒâ[g4õ€‰‚ÿ·Matthew 7:3 - What is the 'plank' referring to that causes spiritually impaired vision ? What must be done to clear the eye out ? How can this happen to you ?(BÉAÊ% €€‚H€‚ÿÁ›ÊË& €7€‚H€‚ÿFinally take time to meditate on John 9:35-41 and 2 Corinthians 4:4 (Look in your Bible for a change - it's better than staring at the computer screen!)(AÊ*Ë% €€‚H€‚ÿ0 ËZÌ& €€‚H€‚ÿYou have seen that faulty hearing and seeing in our spiritual senses is quite common among God's people. His Word gives us keys to remedy these ailments and blockages. Let us apply the truths we have learnt and hear Him more clearly and see His way more vividly. (*Ë‚Ì% €€‚H€‚ÿ]8ZÌßÌ% €p€‚H€‚ÿYou are now ready to go to one of the other topics...yN‚ÌXÍ+ &€œ€‚H€ãåÛêA‰‚ÿ(If you have finished all these topics you are ready for the Next Lesson.(ßÌ€Í% €€‚H€‚ÿÅzXÍEÎK f€ô€‚H€ƒã©ïr€‰‚€ƒã«ïr€‰‚€ƒã&N€‰‚ÿ·Conditions For Seeing And Hearing.·Ways We Can See and Hear God's Will.·Testing What We See And Hear.8€Í}Î1 ÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿb}ÎýÎiTopic16€*EÎýÎV |€V€€†F€ÀC-d*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+NEXT.WAV€†"€‚ÿWays We Can See and Hear God's Will.B}ÎK2 2€!€€‚€‚‚€€‚‚‚ÿIn this section we will be looking at ways God speaks to us and reveals His will to us. We have already seen that God's desire is for us to know our part in His Big Picture and He will actively be leading uýÎKEÎs into His ways through many and varied types of guidance. The types of guidance listed are not a comprehensive list but a selection of the main forms. The Three Categories Of Guidance.There are three basic categories of guidance. Choose the one you want to look at below. Afterwards you will come back here....ÆwýÎO n€î€‚H€‚€ƒãôN€‰‚€ƒãõN€‰‚€ƒãöN€‰‚ÿ·(a) PERSONAL (Individual Or Direct Guidance).·(b) CORPOREAL (Other Christians).·(c) SUPERNATURAL.(K9% €€‚H€‚ÿW,+ &€X€‚H€âÈz`/‰‚ÿLooking again at theEAR and EYE Diagram‚\9& €¹€‚H€‚ÿwe can see that there are basic word definitions to explain the form that our spiritual SEEING and HEARING will take. For example, through the prophetic ministry we will see PROPHETIC MOVEMENTS and /or SIGNS if we are tuned in to what the Spirit is saying. Look at the others words mentioned again and relate them to each of the above sections.(:% €€‚H€‚ÿg<¡+ &€x€‚H€ãäÛêA‰‚ÿNow you can go back , recap and Choose your next topic.(:É% €€‚H€‚ÿ(¡ñ% €€‚H€‚ÿ(É% €€‚H€‚ÿ(ñA% €€‚H€‚ÿ(i% €€‚H€ ‚ÿ8A¡1ÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿc¡Y€Topic17y#iV |€H€€†F€ÀCµd*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+NEXT.WAV€†"€‚ÿTesting What We See and Hear.Ô¡1 0€©€€‚€€€‚‚‚‚ÿAll the various methods we have been looking at by which we can see and hear God's will MUST BE TESTED. Are they from God or our emotions or from the enemy or...? Put them through the following tests...`4, (€h€€âf4õ‰‚ÿ(1) The Fellowship Test (See 1 Corinthians 1:9)£s" 0 .€ç€€‚‚‚€€‚‚‚‚ÿGod's calling will always lead us into greater fellowship with Himself and/or others.Group or Individual Excercise: Look at the Greek meaning of 'fellowship' (by clicking on the verse above and then clicking on the underlined word 'fellowship') and discuss what kind of fellowship God calls us into.Think about/ discuss an area where you think God may be calling you as a person or as a group and ask the following questions...Does it bring you into closer fellowship with Christ and/or others ? (i.e. cause you to hunger after Jesus more and love other more). He always calls us into that which increases this area.&H # €€€‚ÿ[/" £ , (€^€€â€f4õ‰‚ÿ(2) The Liberty Test (See Galatians 5:13).Ó¥H v . *€K€€‚‚‚€€‚‚ÿHis calling always leads us into true liberty.There will never be a negative sense of bondage in going according to God's call (unless we are walking in the right direction with a wrong attitide!).Group or Individual Activity: Look at the Greek meaning of 'liberty' and discuss. Again ,discuss the same issue as before. Does it bring you into a sense of freedom (true freedom to serve Him with joy) or bondage ? xF£ î 2 4€Œ€€âf4õ‰â)f4õ‰‚ÿ(3) The Peace Test (See 1 Corinthians 7:15 and Colossians 3:15)Q#v ?. *€G€€‚‚‚€€‚‚ÿHis calling is always one of peace, within yourself but also with others.Group or Individual Activity: Look at the Greek meaning of 'peace' and discuss what it means. Discuss the same issue as before answering the following...Does it bring a peaceful witness in your spirit ? (all prophecies etc. should be confirming what the Lord has already been showing you - God is not the author of confusion). Does it bring you into greater peace with others or in conflict with them ? (NB. not conflict for the Gospel's sake, but negative strife).&î e# €€€‚ÿX,?œ, (€X€€â‚f4õ‰‚ÿ(4) The Life Test (See 1 Timothy 6:12)ßeØA0 .€¿€€‚‚‚€€‚‚‚‚ÿGod's calling wilœØAil cause us to come alive with His life. It will cause us to feel more alive and clearer in ourselves as to His life in us.Group or Individual Activity: Look at the verse and the Greek meaning of the word 'life'. What kind of life is being referred to ? Explain.Ask the following questions of the same issue...Is there a sense of life or a heavy sense of 'death' about it ?Does it lead you to feel full of life, clarity and lightness or the opposite ?&œþA# €€€‚ÿ…SØAƒB2 4€Š€€âƒf4õ‰âÈy`/‰‚ÿ(5) The Holiness Test (See 1 Thessalonians 4:7 and 2 Thessalonians 2:13-14).#óþAŠD0 .€ç€€‚‚‚€€‚‚‚‚ÿGod always calls us to greater purity. His calling should lead to a greater level of holiness,of separation unto Him. If the so called 'call' does not lead into greater holiness then it is not from God.Group or Individual Activity: Look at the Greek meaning of 'holiness' and discuss what it is referring to.Again, ask the following questions of the same issue...Does it cause you to live a more pure life ?Does it challenge you to be more like Christ and separate yourself more to Him ?&ƒBÌD# €€€‚ÿW+ŠD#E, (€V€€âIt4õ‰‚ÿ(6) The Blessing Test (see1 Peter 3:9)ýÉÌD G4 6€“€€‚âz`/‰‚‚€€‚‚ÿAs the call to Abraham was to be a blessing (see Genesis 12:1-3), so is our call. We must ask whether the direction we feel God is leading us in leads to blessing for others or not. He always draws us out beyond ourselves to be a channel of blessing.Group or individual Activity: Look at the Greek meaning of 'blessing' and comment. Ask the question 'Does this course of action bring blessing to others ? What does true blessing really entail ? e3#E…G2 4€f€€ãN‰âKt4õ‰‚ÿ(7) The Suffering Test (see 1 Peter 2:20-21)@  GÅJ3 4€€€‚ãN‰‚‚€€‚ÿThis test must not be misunderstood. The word 'suffering' comes from the Greek word 'pascho' where we get the term 'passion' from. It means going through certain hardships or allowing certain things that go against the flesh to happen for the sake of Jesus. In old English if one said 'suffer it to be so' it meant to allow something to happen as it was the best course.Group or Individual Activity: Look in more detail at the Greek word 'pascho' (click on the verse above and then on the underlined word 'suffer'). Discuss it's meaning. Consider this of the course of action you are talking about: does it lead you to 'suffer' in that you need to give up something or go through some pain/discomfort so as to see His glory manifest ? If not it may well not be His will!ᵅGŠK, &€k€€‚âtt4õ‰‚‚ÿClick here to read about more things we are called into. Look at each verse and discuss the meaning. Relate each point to the course of action you have been discussing above.`:ÅJL& €t€€‚ÿ The Word Test.nAŠKtN- (€ƒ€€‚‚‚âJt4õ‰‚ÿMost importantly, does it agree with the overall counsel of God's word - the Bible. In all the above tests the underlying test must always be that it agrees with the Word of God. For example, you may have peace in your spirit and a sense of freedom in pulling away from a Church group, but still have bitterness in your heart towards certain members. This bitterness must first be dealt with as the Bible clearly shows we must not allow a bitter root to form that will defile many (See Hebrews 12:15)(this course of action you feel you should take may be of the flesh).Ù¥LY€4 6€K€€‚€‚‚‚‚ãäÛêA‰‚‚‚ÿGroup or Individual Activity: Ask the following question of the issue you are discussing... Does it agree with the Word of God or is there a some area that would be contrary to His Word ?As you receive what you believe to be guidance from the Lord you must subject it to the above tests. Does it pass ? If not then it is not of the Lord.tNY€iGo back and recap what you have learnt then carry on as instructed....1tNŠ€1ÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿdÿÿÿÿŠ€r„OY€قN j€€€†F€ÀCZ*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV‚‚‚‚ÿThis group activity teaches principles on vision and calling in general and needs a long time to discuss the lessons learnt afterwards.The group splits up into pairs. On the ground make a rectangular area into a 'mine field' (use soft balls as mines leaving enough space for a several people to traverse through without touching them).One team member must now be blindfolded after taking a good look at the field and the destination (a target drawn on a piece of paper on the other side of the mine field).™mŠ€r„, &€Û€€‚‚‚‚‚€‚ÿThe other team member must direct the blind-folded one through the mine-field without them touching a mine. If they touch one mine they lose a life (can have two or three lives depending on the difficulty).Also , if they touch another person they lose a life.They have to reach the target and touch the bullseye to finish.Afterwards discuss lessons learnt.1ق£„1ÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿeÿÿÿÿ£„ñ…Nür„ñ…R r€ù€€†F€ÀCé_*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV‚‚‚‚€‚ÿ"For the eyes of the Lord run to and fro throughout the whole earth,To show Himself strong on behalf of those whose heart is loyal to Him.In this you (Asa) have done foolishly; Therefore from now on you will have wars."2 Chronicles 16:9 (NKJV)1£„"†1:ÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿfÿÿÿÿ"†+‡ «ñ…+‡^ Š€W€€†F€ÀCyl*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAVâçm4õ‰â`m4õ‰‚‚‚‚€‚ÿ"If anyone WANTS(wills) to do His will,He shall know concerning the doctrine,Whether it is from God, or whether ISpeak on my own authority."John 7:17 (NKJV)1"†\‡1Ñÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿgÿÿÿÿ\‡üˆ L+‡üˆT v€™€€†F€ÀCÍx*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV‚‚‚‚‚‚€‚ÿ"He who loves his father or mother more than MeIs not worthy of Me. And he who loves son or daughterMore than Me is not worthy of Me.Ans he who does not take up his cross and follow after MeIs not worthy of Me. He who finds his life will lose it,And he who loses his life for My sake will find it."Matthew 10:37-39 (NKJV)1\‡-‰1Øÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿhÿÿÿÿ-‰ԉ§XüˆԉO n€°€€†F€ÀCý€*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV‚‚€‚ÿ"The humble He guides in justice,The humble He teaches His way."Psalm 25:9 (NKJV)1-‰Š1SÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿiÿÿÿÿŠ'‹"Ðԉ'‹R r€¡€€†F€ÀCu‡*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV‚‚‚‚€‚ÿ"At that time Jesus answered and said,'I thank you Father, Lord of heaven and earth,Because You have hidden these things from the wiseAnd prudent and have revealed them to babes."Matthew 11:25 (NKJV)1ŠX‹1œÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿjÿÿÿÿX‹Ìk'‹ÌS t€1€€†F€ÀC¹‰*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV‚‚‚‚‚€‚ÿ"Let no one deceive himself.If anyone among you seems to be wise in this age,Let him become a fool that he may become wise.For the wisdom of this world is foolishness with God.For it is written,'He catches the wise in their own craftiness.''"1 Corinthians 3:18-19 (NKJV)1X‹ôŒ1²ÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿkÿÿÿÿôŒuŽ,ÌuŽU x€Y€€†F€ÀC•*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV‚‚‚‚€€‚ÿ"And why do you look at the speck in your brother's eye,But do not consider the palnk in your own eye ?"Matthew 7:3 (NKJV)We can be spiritually blurred in our vision due to having a 'plank' in our eye - this is a judgemental and critical spirit that looks at small faults in other's vision.1ôŒŠŽ1ÐÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿlÿÿÿÿŠŽEŸPuŽEO n€ €€†F€ÀCŗ*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV‚‚€‚ÿ"Blessed are the pure in heart,For they shall see God."Matthew 5:8 (NKJV)1ŠŽv1¯ÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿmÿÿÿÿvÁœFEÁV z€€€†F€ÀC š*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV‚‚‚‚‚€€‚ÿ"The nations shall see and be ashamed of all theirvÁE might;They shall put their hand over their mouth;Their ears shall be deaf."Micah 7:16 (NKJV)Here we see the nations becoming spiritual deaf due to having trusted in their own 'might' (strength). We too can become deaf if we trust in our own strength and resources.1vOÁ1|ÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿnÿÿÿÿOÁšÄŽÁVÃS t€i€€†F€ÀCab*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV‚‚‚‚‚‚‚‚‚ÿ"Of whom (Melchizedek) we have much to say, and hard to explain,Since you have become dull of hearing.For though by this time you ought to be teachers,You need someone to teach you the first principlesOf the oracles of God; and you have come to need milkAnd not solid food. For everyone who partakes only of milk is unskilled in the wordOf righteousness, for he is a babe.But solid food belongs to those who are of full age,DOÁšÄ. *€-€€‚‚‚‚€€‚ÿthat is, those who by reason of use have their sensesExercised to discern both good and evil."Hebrews 5:11-14 (NKJV)It is possible to become 'dull of hearing' spiritually due to not exercising our spiritual senses (i.e. not regularly waiting upon the Lord to hear Him).1VÃËÄ1ÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿoÿÿÿÿËĶÆ뒚ĶÆY €€%€€†F€ÀCij*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV‚‚‚‚‚‚‚‚€€‚ÿ"Therefore I will number you for the sword,And you shall bow down to the slaughter;Because, when I called, you did not answer;When I spoke, you did not hear,But did evil before My eyes,And chose that in which I do not delight."Isaiah 66:12 (NKJV)Here we see it is possible to deliberately ignore the promptings of God as he speaks to our spiritual ears. What is the result of doing this ?1ËÄçÆ1GÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿpÿÿÿÿçÆýÈŸ¶ÆýÈX ~€}€€†F€ÀCAu*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV‚‚‚‚‚‚‚€€‚ÿ"For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine,But according to their own desires, because they have itching ears,They will heap up for themselves teachers:And they will turn their ears away from the truth, And be turned away from fables."2 Timothy 4:3-4 (NKJV)'Itching ears' can stop us from hearing the truth! This is hearing only that which will satisfy our cravings, hence turning spiritual ears from the truth.1çÆ.É1Žÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿqÿÿÿÿ.É‹Ë]ýÈ‹ËW |€ €€†F€ÀCù*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV‚‚‚‚‚‚€€‚ÿ"You stiff-knecked and uncircumcised in heart and ears! You always resist the Holy Spirit;As your fathers did, so do you."Acts 7:51 (NKJV)(Notice the contrast in verse 54 - 'when they HEARD these things they were CUT TO THE HEART')'Uncircumcised ears' means that we still hear according to the flesh rather than the spirit. Our ears have not been pierced and circumcised to hear only that which is covenanted with God. The result is that we resist the promptings of the Spirit as they go against our flesh.1.ÉŒË1[ÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿrÿÿÿÿŒËæÍ*Ô‹ËæÍV z€©€€†F€ÀCMœ*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV‚‚‚‚‚€€‚ÿ"How then shall they call on Him in whom they have not believed ?And how shall they believe in Him of whom they have not heard ?And how shall they hear without a preacher ?"Romans 10:14 (NKJV)This is obvious! If we are not in a place of being able to hear the word of God from anointed vessels then we cannot hear to believe! We must seek the fellowship, teaching and preaching of anointed communities so as the hear what the Spirit is saying to the Church.1ŒËÎ1 ÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿsÿÿÿÿÎ Ú„æÍ V z€ €€†F€ÀCŞ*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV‚‚‚‚‚€€‚ÿ"But he who hates his brother is in darkness and walks in darkness,And does not know where he is going, because the darkness hasblinded his eyes."1 John 2:11 (NKJV)Our spiritual sight is blinded if we harbour hatred in our hearts towards anyone. We must release forgiveness and let the Lord melt all bitterness with His love, then we will begin to see His vision for our lives.Î æÍ1Î=1%ÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿtÿÿÿÿ=1ôŸ 1U x€?€€†F€ÀC ¡*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV‚‚‚‚€€‚ÿ"For all that is in the world - the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyesAnd the pride of life - is not of the Father but is of the world."1 John 2:16 (NKJV)The 'lust of the eyes' means that we set our affections on earthly appetites. If our eyes lust after that which is abominable to God our spiritual sight will becomes dulled as we're fixing our sights on things of the earth rather than His things.1=b1ÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿuÿÿÿÿb3Í1R r€›€€†F€ÀCùc*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV‚‚‚‚‚‚‚‚ÿ"In the year that King Uzziah died, I saw the Lord sitting on a throne,High and lifted up, and the train of His robe filled the temple.Above it stood seraphim; each one had six wings:With two he covered his face, with two he covered his feet,And with two he flew.And one cried to another and said: 'Holy , holy, holy is the Lord of hosts;The whole earth is full of His glory!'. And the posts of the door were shaken by the voice of him who cried out,×b„, &€¯€€‚‚‚‚‚‚‚‚‚ÿAnd the house was filled with smoke.Then I said, 'Woe is me, for I am undone! Because I am a man of unclean Lips, and I dwell in the midst of a people of unclean lips;For my eyes have seen the King, the Lord of hosts."Then one of the Seraphim flew to me, having in his hand a live coalWhich he had taken with the tongs from the altar.And he touched my mouth with it and said,'Behold,this has touched your lips; Your iniquity is taken away,And your sin purged'.¯†3) € €€‚‚€‚ÿAlso I heard a voice, saying: "Whom shall I send, And who will go for Us ?"Then I said,"Here am I! Send me".Isaiah 6:1-8 (NKJV)1„d1äÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿvÿÿÿÿd 0ã3” M h€Ç€€†F€ÀCõd*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV‚‚‚ÿ"Moreover Uzziah had an army of fighting men who went out to war by companies, according to the number on their roll as prepared by Jeiel the scribe and Maaseiah the officer, under the hand of Hananiah, one of the king's captains.The total number of chief officers of the mighty men of valor was two thousand six hundred.And under their authority was an army of three hundred and seven thousand five hundred, that made war with mighty power, to help the king against the enemy.:dÎ & €)€€‚‚‚ÿThen Uzziah prepared for them, for the entire army, shields, spears, helmets, body armor, bows, and slings to cast stones.And he made devices in Jerusalem, invented by skillful men, to be on the towers and the corners, to shoot arrows and large stones. So his fame spread far and wide, for he was marvelously helped till he became strong.But when he was strong his heart was lifted up, to his destruction, for he transgressed against the LORD his God by entering the temple of the LORD to burn incense on the altar of incense."I!”  ( €B€€‚‚€‚ÿ2 Chronicles 26:11-16(NKJV)1Î H 1ÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿwÿÿÿÿH (à (S t€€€†F€ÀCYh*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV‚‚‚‚‚€‚ÿ"And that from childhood you have known the Holy Scriptures, which are able to make you wise for salvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus.All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness,That the man of God may be complete, thoroughly equipped for every good work."2 Timothy 3:15-17(NKJV)1H Y1_ÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿxÿÿÿÿY‡.×(‡W |€¯€€†F€ÀCÝm*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAVâ’m4õ‰‚‚‚€‚ÿ"Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom, teaching and admonishing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with grace in your hearts to the Lord."Colossians 3:16(NKJV)1Yž1>ÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿyÿÿÿÿžŽ@Êt‡Ž@V |€è€€†F€ÀCy{*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAVžŽ@‡â`m4õ‰‚‚‚€‚ÿ"In everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you."1 Thessalonians 5:18(NKJ)1ž¿@1Çÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿzÿÿÿÿ¿@UC:æŽ@ùBT v€Í€€†F€ÀC!p*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV€€‚‚‚‚ÿOPEN PAGE METHODThis is where the Bible just drops open and your eyes fix on one verse that the Lord is speaking to you through. This is a VERY DANGEROUS method and you must know it's definitely of the Lord (no forcing it to happen). One person did this and the first verse his eyes saw was "And Judas hanged himself" and then the second verse was 'Go and do likewise".This is definitely not the voice of God as it conflicts all else that is the general counsel of God's Word.\5¿@UC' €j€€‚€‚ÿBut, having said that, God CAN use this method!1ùB†C1‰ÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿ{ÿÿÿÿ†CÞDXUCÞDS t€ €€†F€ÀCœ}*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV‚‚‚‚‚€‚ÿ"How can a young man cleanse his way? By taking heed according to Your word.With my whole heart I have sought You; Oh, let me not wander from Your commandments!Your word I have hidden in my heart, that I might not sin against You!"Psalm 119:9-11(NKJV)1†CE1Õÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿ|ÿÿÿÿE³F€SÞD³FQ p€§€€†F€ÀCM£*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV‚‚‚€‚ÿ"Then the king stood by a pillar and made a covenant before the LORD, to follow the LORD and to keep His commandments and His testimonies and His statutes, with all his heart and all his soul, to perform the words of this covenant that were written in this book. And all the people took a stand for the covenant."2 Kings 23:3(NKJV)1EäF1âÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿ}ÿÿÿÿäF•Ip#³FTIM h€G€€†F€ÀC‘¥*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV‚‚‚ÿ"In the first year of his reign I, Daniel, understood by the books the number of the years specified by the word of the LORD through Jeremiah the prophet, that He would accomplish seventy years in the desolations of Jerusalem.Then I set my face toward the Lord God to make request by prayer and supplications, with fasting, sackcloth, and ashes.And I prayed to the LORD my God, and made confession, and said, "O Lord, great and awesome God, who keeps His covenant and mercy with those who love Him, and with those who keep His commandments,"AäF•I( €2€€‚‚€‚ÿDaniel 9:2-4 (NKJV)1TIÆI1[ÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿ~ÿÿÿÿÆI €·•IÊKM h€o€€†F€ÀCÕ§*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV‚‚‚ÿ"Now when the Philistines heard that David had been anointed king over all Israel, all the Philistines went up to search for David. And David heard of it and went out against them.Then the Philistines went and made a raid on the Valley of Rephaim.And David inquired of God, saying, "Shall I go up against the Philistines? Will You deliver them into my hand?" And the LORD said to him, "Go up, for I will deliver them into your hand."ÙÆIËN( €³€€‚‚‚‚‚ÿSo they went up to Baal Perazim, and David defeated them there. Then David said, "God has broken through my enemies by my hand like a breakthrough of water." Therefore they called the name of that place Baal Perazim.And when they left their gods there, David gave a commandment, and they were burned with fire.Then the Philistines once again made a raid on the valley.Therefore David inquired again of God, and God said to him, "You shall not go up after them; circle around them, and come upon them in front of the mulberry trees."And it shall be, when you hear a sound of marching in the tops of the mulberry trees, then you shall go out to battle, for God has gone out before you to strike the camp of the Philistines."%úÊK €+ $€õ€€‚‚‚‚€‚ÿSo David did as God commanded him, and they drove back the army of the Philistines from Gibeon as far as Gezer. Then the fame of David went out into all lands, and the LORD brought the fear of him upon all nations."1 Chronicles 14:8-17 (NKJV)ËN €•I1ËN=€1(ÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿ=€Åu €P p€ê€€†F€ÀCMª*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV‚‚‚€‚ÿ"You ask and do not receive, because you ask amiss, that you may spend it on your pleasures."James 4:3 (NKJV)1=€31wÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿ€ÿÿÿÿ3y…hñ›ƒw Œ€ã€€†F€ÀCZ*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAVâ=n4õ‰‚‚â>n4õ‰‚‚â?n4õ‰‚‚âkn4õ‰‚‚âkn4õ‰âkn4õ‰‚ÿ"Truly my soul silently waits for God; from Him comes my salvation."Psalm 62:1 (NKJV)"My soul, wait silently for God alone, for my expectation is from Him".Psalm 62:5 (NKJV)"Our soul waits for the LORD; he is our help and our shield."Psalm 33:20 (NKJV)"Lead me in Your truth and teach me, for You are the God of my salvation; on You I wait all the day."Psalm 25:5 (NKJV)" Wait on the LORD; be of good courage, and He shall strengthen your heart; wait, I say, on the LORD!"Þ•3y…I `€+€€‚âkn4õ‰‚‚âkn4õ‰âkn4õ‰‚‚âkn4õ‰‚‚‚‚‚€‚ÿPsalm 27:14 (NKJV)"I waited patiently for the LORD; and He inclined to me, and heard my cry."Psalm 40:1 (NKJV)"I wait for the LORD, my soul waits, and in His word I do hope".Psalm 130:5 (NKJV)"But those who wait on the LORD shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings like eagles, they shall run and not be weary, they shall walk and not faint."Isaiah 40:31 (NKJV)1›ƒª…1ðÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿª…i†¿oy…i†P p€Þ€€†F€ÀCé_*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV‚‚‚€‚ÿ"I say then: Walk in the Spirit, and you shall not fulfill the lust of the flesh."Galatians 5:16 (NKJV)1ª…š†1àÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿ‚ÿÿÿÿš†I‡¯_i†I‡P p€Ÿ€€†F€ÀCq*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV‚‚‚€‚ÿ"For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, these are sons of God."Romans 8:14 (NKJV)1š†z‡1{ÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿƒÿÿÿÿz‡ĈJùI‡ĈQ p€ó€€†F€ÀC…w*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV‚‚‚€‚ÿ"But the anointing which you have received from Him abides in you, and you do not need that anyone teach you; but as the same anointing teaches you concerning all things, and is true, and is not a lie, and just as it has.."1 John 2:27 (NKJV)1z‡õˆ1+ÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿ„ÿÿÿÿõˆï‰ú—Ĉï‰c ”€/€€†F€ÀCu‡*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAVâot4õ‰âbn4õ‰â¢z`/‰‚‚‚€‚ÿ"And let the peace of God rule in your hearts, to which also you were called(kaleo) in one body; and be thankful."Colossians 3:15 (NKJV)1õˆ Š1Ûÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿ…ÿÿÿÿ ŠʋªEï‰ʋe ˜€‹€€†F€ÀC¹‰*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAVâám4õ‰â¢z`/‰â¢z`/‰‚‚‚‚‚€‚ÿ"I, therefore, the prisoner of the Lord, beseech you to walk(kaleo) worthy of the calling(klesis) with which you were called(kaleo),with all lowliness and gentleness, with longsuffering, bearing with one another in love,endeavoring to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace."Ephesians 4:1-3 (NKJV)8 ŠŒ1Ð"ÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿ†Œ…Œv Topic18ƒ5ʋ…ŒN l€j€€†F€ÀCñ•*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+NEXT.WAV€‚‚ÿPERSONAL GUIDANCE (Individual direct guidance).tFŒù. *€€€‚‚‚€€‚‚ÿPersonal guidance is that which God uses to direct you directly through your own faculties of spiritual sight and hearing. This is not guidance through other people or even dramatic, supernatural guidance from God, but it is the everyday communication of God which should be every Christian's experience. (I) HEARING:G…Œ@Ž/ .€2€€ †"€‚ÿ(i) The Word Of God.¯|ùïŽ3 6€ø€€‚âf4õ‰âüe4õ‰‚‚‚‚ÿSee 2 Timothy 3:15-17 and Colossians 3:16.The general will of God can be seen in the LOGOS (written word of God).tN@Žc& €œ€€‚ÿWill of God = Holy and stated purpose of the Father to make us like Christ.²ïŽ!Ã1 0€€€‚€‚âýe4õ‰‚‚‚ÿFrom the Bible there are obvious things we know is the will of God for all (eg. 1 Thessalonians 5:18).c!Ãʋ As we have already seen, World Missions IS THE BASIS for the Bible and the whole Scripture reveals God's general will of reaching all peoples with the Gospel and we are all to have a vital role in this. As we read the Bible we receive a mandate to reach the unreached and live an upright Christian life that will fit in with this Vision. We know it is God's general will for us to live holy lives, pray to and worship Him, reach out to others in love (especially those who have never heard the good news about Jesus) and be involved in discipling others with great joy, peace and love! However, His specific will for our lives can also come as He gives RHEMA (the quickened,spoken word of God to our spirits) - He may highlight a general word in the Bible and make it specific to you."ÒcCÅP n€¥€€‚‚‚âEt4õ‰‚âþe4õ‰ãËN‰‚‚âÿe4õ‰‚‚âf4õ‰âf4õ‰‚ÿWays we can hear His call through the word...* Regular Bible Reading (planned and systematic)(See this quote).* The Open Page Method (Not recommended, but sometimes God speaks this way) - See this humorous article entitled 'Diary of a Bible'.* Mental Suggestion (Bringing a Biblical thought to mind, maybe not previously memorized).* Recalled Memory Verse (Psalm 119:9-11).This guidance may be GENERAL (2 Kings 23:3) or SPECIFIC (Daniel 9:2).m(!ðÇE X€Q€€‚ãN‰âÈu4õ‰‚‚€€âHt4õ‰âýe4õ‰‚ÿRemember that meditation(see this quote) on God's word will fill you to overflowing with His word, which is useful in all things - especially guiding you in His way, general or specific.Group or Individual Activity: Write a list of all Scriptural guidance you know is GENERAL to all believers (i.e. we know that all Christians should be doing these things) - see this list of verses stating the general Will of God and also look again at 1 Thessalonians 5:18. Give testimony of how the Lord has used His word to guide you SPECIFICALLY.Þ«CÅŽÈ3 4€W€€‚âËu4õ‰‚âÌu4õ‰‚‚ÿRead the following quote by George Muller on the Word of God and comment on what it speaks to you personally.Also read this quote by D.L.Moody and again comment.G°ÇÕÈ/ .€2€€ †"€$‚ÿ(ii) Waiting On God.⛎ȷËG \€7€€‚ãÓ N‰âf4õ‰‚‚âŽn4õ‰ãÓ N‰ân4õ‰‚‚‚ÿWaiting In prayer and fasting(Daniel 9:3-4).Fasting is not a tool to twist God's arm to do something, but a way to more tightly hold His hand to go where He goes and do what he does! (must be accompanied by prayer or it is just dieting!).(See also Matthew 6:16-18 for Jesus' teaching on fasting).Often the Lord will tug at your spirit for a season of fasting (if you're not that sensitive I suggest you fast more so it makes you more sensitive). It may be for a specific issue you're praying about or just to get closer in your relationship with Him (in which case , seeing Him closer and hearing Him more clearly will lead you more into His will).PõÕÈÎ[ „€ë€€‚ãÓ N‰ãÓ N‰ãÓ N‰ãÓ N‰ãÓ N‰â9n4õ‰ãÓ N‰â}4õ‰â}4õ‰‚ÿWe don't know what we should really pray so it is wise not to come to God with a shopping list of all YOUR prayers. The first step is to wait on God for HIS prayers! Ask Him to put His prayers on your heart so you may pray them in faith and see His will be done on earth as it is in heaven ( Luke 11:1-2) (i.e. The prayers are already waiting to be prayed in heaven - we need to seek what they are and pray them) - See this Quote by Andrew Murray or this Quote by Spurgeon..ð·ËA > J€á€€‚‚‚‚‚‚‚âfn4õ‰ã0N‰‚âÆu4õ‰‚ÿAs you are waiting on the Lord He may answer one of four ways...(1) NO - not asking for the right thing.(2) SLOW - not asking at the right time.(3) GROW - not asking with the right intention/attitude.(4) GO - all the above conditions are met.Sometimes God answers our prayer, but not in the way we were expecting - see this Quote and this Inspirational thought on Asking God.It must also be noted that sometimes the prayers He givÎA ʋes us cannot even be verbalized - see this Quote.ÌÎ^ Q p€™€€‚€€ãÓ N‰ãØ N‰âf4õ‰ãØ N‰âf4õ‰‚‚âÍu4õ‰‚ÿGroup or Individual Activity: The best prayer to pray is the PRAYER OF INQUIRY (See 1 Chronicles 14:8-17) - read this together and discuss what the PRAYER OF INQUIRY is and why it is so important. (also look at James 4:3 and discuss).Above all prayer is about LISTENING - above we have seen that we must not presume how to pray. We must inquire on Him what we should pray. This means waiting on Him to listen to His still, small voice...ÒˆA 0 J b€€€‚âf4õ‰‚‚âjn4õ‰âÊu4õ‰‚‚ãN‰‚‚€€‚‚ÿRead through the following verses on Waiting On The Lord and look at the different Hebrew words used. What aspect of waiting does each word show us ? Comment on each verse about what you learn...Look at this quote and also this quote about prayer and discuss the impact of their meaning to your own prayer life. ...also you can do An assignment on prayer.(II) SEEING:M^ } / .€>€€ †"€‚ÿ(i) Witness Of The Spirit.Hü0 Å L f€ù€€‚â¥z`/‰âuz`/‰â0f4õ‰â'f4õ‰‚‚‚â(f4õ‰â)f4õ‰‚ÿSee Ephesians 1:17-18 , Ephesians 5:17-18, Galatians 5:16, Romans 8:14.This is the principle of 'following the cloud'. We need to be continually filled with His Holy Spirit so we can learn how to flow in Him, understanding His promptings, discerning His still,small voice. We must allow His anointing to flow ( 1 John 2:27) and He will give a peaceful witness (See Colossians 3:15 - look especially at the Greek meaning of 'rule') as to which way to go or not go ('check in the Spirit').ŠM} O = H€›€€‚€€âm4õ‰‚‚â*f4õ‰‚€‚ÿGroup or Individual Activity: Think about/discuss how the Spirit speaks to us in guidance- give testimonies. See Acts 16:7-10 and think about/discuss how you feel Paul was forbidden by the Spirit.Read Ephesians 4:1-3 and list out all the things we must do to walk worthily in the Spirit according to His call. Discuss.CÅ ’ & €:€€ ‚ÿ(ii) Counsel Of The Heart.çO y J b€;€€‚âŸt4õ‰â t4õ‰‚‚‚‚€€â¡t4õ‰‚â¥z`/‰‚‚‚ÿSee Psalm 16:7 and Psalm 27:8.The more our heart (spirit) is submitted to the Lord, the more it will counsel and instruct us....Group or Individual Activity: Read this Quote by Jim Elliot of Counsel of the heart. Discuss what Jim Elliot is describing when he mentions the 'counsel of the heart'. What are the conditions for seeing this enlightened counsel (the eyes of our heart - see Ephesians 1:17-18) ? All the above forms of guidance should be an everyday occurance in our Christian lives. They are the 'norm' in terms of God's direct guidance and we should aim to cultivate each area to hear and see His way more and more as we grow into Him. ]*’ Ö 3 6€T€‚H€‚€ƒã«ïr€‰‚ÿ·Go back and continue your study.(y þ % €€‚H€‚ÿ(Ö & % €€‚H€‚ÿ(þ N % €€‚H€‚ÿ(& v % €€‚H€‚ÿ8N ® 1¡ÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿ‡® ' ^€ Topic19y+v ' N l€V€€†F€ÀCMf*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+NEXT.WAV€ ‚‚ÿCORPOREAL GUIDANCE(Other Christians).öÅ®  1 0€‹€€‚€‚‚€€‚‚ÿGod has placed us in a body and we are not to be isolated individualsdoing our own thing! As such we must learn to receive guidance and counsel from others, recognising the different ministries God has place in the Church. Of course we must discern if all that we hear and see from others is really from God and below we will look at how practically to do this. (I) HEARING: This is hearing God's spokes persons... they will be 'as God' to us.E' b / .€.€€ †"€ ‚ÿ(i) Godly Counsel. Ò {A ; D€¥€€‚â.f4õ‰‚‚â/f4õ‰‚‚â[f4õ‰‚ÿSee Proverbs 24:6.This is the seeing out of experienced, godly ( Proverbs 25:19) counsel anb {A v d should be in the form of PRINCIPLES not PRONOUNCEMENTS! (ie. Not legalistic 'thou shalts', but principles by which the person being counselled may decide for themselves what course to take.)Remember that you may even get wrong advise from the right, godly source (Read 2 Samuel 7:3-5) and you are ultimately responsible for knowing God's call upon your life. mb C 3 4€Û€€ãÓ N‰‚‚€€‚‚ÿRemember that all advice given must agree with the general counsel of God's word. Never blindly accept counsel, pray through it and seek the Lord to confirm it for yourself.Group or Individual Activity: Think about/discuss the correct way of seeking counsel in a matter and what you should do with the advise. Give personal testimonies where appropriate.F{A aC / .€0€€ †"€‚ÿ(ii) Godly Minstry.˜\C ùE < F€¹€€‚‚‚‚ãÓ N‰‚‚€€âRf4õ‰‚ÿAnointed Preaching/ teaching from Godly servants.The Lord often speaks specifically to us through His anointed servants as they minister. It may be a verse, a phrase or a point they speak out that the Lord highlights to your spirit and makes it relevant to you.It may be as they pray over you that the Lord gives a word specifically for you.Group or Individual Activity: Read through these verses on God's Servants Ministering His Word together and comment. What are the dangers of taking every word of teachers/ preachers ? When should we take things they say for specific direction ?:aC 3G : B€€€‚âcn4õ‰‚âÇu4õ‰‚ãèN‰‚‚ÿRead Isaiah 30:20-21 and comment...Read this Quote and comment on what we can learn from it. Discuss your reaction to this quote.Lastly read this article entitled Must I Listen ? and talk about it's main message. What can you apply from this ?MùE €G / .€>€€ †"€‚ÿ(iii) The Spiritual Gifts. Ò3G J ; D€¥€€‚âñt4õ‰‚‚‚‚ãÓ N‰âf4õ‰‚ÿThe operation of The Gifts of the Holy Spirit. - Word of knowledge, wisdom etc...God often uses others as they move in words of prophecy etc.. to CONFIRM what He is already saying. If the word comes as something very new (eg. You are to go as a missionary to Mongolia) which you have not been feeling, take it into serious prayer but don't just take it straight away as from God - test it first (pray through it asking God to confirm it further).Prophecies should NEVER be just left on the shelf . God's way (as revealed in the Word) is to seriously test the word first and if from God then you should seriously pray it through until completion (as Daniel did with the word from Jeremiah (see Daniel 9:2-4).N€G ÛL 1 0€;€€‚€âSf4õ‰‚‚‚‚ÿGroup or Individual Activity: Read through the following passages about The Gifts Of The Spirit and comment on the giftings that will particularly be used to transmit God's SPECIFIC word to a believer. Give example from your own expereience.What are the cautions that should be observed here ?Lastly, it must be noted that God may also use others through statements they make which they are totally unaware of the impact thereof. What they say may not be due to a spiritual gift operating, but the words are a word form God to you.VJ 1O : B€9€€âTf4õ‰‚‚€€‚‚€€‚ÿOne example of this is Nehemiah's friend who comes with a report about Jerusalem being torn down - this news report has a profound effect on Nehemiah and is in a sense a call to Nehemiah to go! (Read Nehemiah 1:2-4).(II) SEEING: Guidance may come through PROPHETIC ACTS of others! The prophet Agabus used a prophetic act when he bound the Apostle Paul with his belt, indicating he would be bound by the authorities on going to Jerusalem. Old Testament prophets too used many visual prophetic acts such as Jeremiah and Ezekiel.!ëÛL ^€ 6 :€×€‚H€‚‚‚€ƒã«ïr€‰‚ÿGod will use others as His mouth-piece and we must pray for ears to hear what the Lord is speaking through them. We have looked at basic principles of 1O ^€ v doing so and need to grow in this area. ·Go back and continue your study.81O –€ 1"ÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿˆ–€ þ€ Aà Topic20h^€ þ€ M j€6€€†F€ÀCñZ*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+NEXT.WAV€ ‚ÿSUPERNATURAL GUIDANCE.Ì›–€ ʂ 1 0€7€€‚€‚‚€€‚‚ÿSometimes the Lord will grant supernatural guidance to us. This is , however, not God's normal means of communicating to us day by day. There may come a time where supernatural guidance is heightened due to the season we are in (eg. when God was urging the early Church to reach out the the Gentiles in His way he used many supernatural signs to get their (especially Peter's) attention).(I) HEARING: P!þ€ ƒ / .€D€€ †"€‚ÿ(i) The Audible Voice Of God.Êʂ *… F Z€•€€ ‚€âUf4õ‰‚‚‚‚‚€€âVf4õ‰âYf4õ‰‚‚ÿSee 1 Samuel 3:1-10.This is very rare but does still happen. It is purely up to God to decide if He will speak this way (no matter how holy the person is).Don't seek this form of guidance as it could lead to you hearing other voices! Seek the Lord, if He will speak this way, so be it.Group or Individual Activity: Read the above verse on Samuel and also Acts 9:1-7 and John 12:27-30 in each case say:(a) Who was God's audible voice for ? pƒ ʅ 0 0€à€€‚‚‚€€‚€ ‚ÿ(b) What was the purpose for His audible voice being heard ?(c) Could this happen today ?(II) SEEING: J*… † / .€8€€ †"€‚ÿ(i) Dreams and Visions.v0ʅ Šˆ F Z€a€€‚â m4õ‰âWf4õ‰‚‚â m4õ‰‚â m4õ‰ãõN‰‚ÿSee this article on Dreams and this one on Dreams/Visions and Trances.Again, any dream or vision one receives should be tested. It should not contradict Scripture and will usually be very vivid and give a sense of God's presence with it. They usually confirm what the Lord has already been saying.Prayerfully consider your dream/vision remembering they could represent symbols or principles - not necessarily absolutes. Talk them over with mature Christians (again follow the principles outlined in (b) CORPOREAL GUIDANCE(Other Christians).). ~&† ‹ X ~€M€€â m4õ‰âXf4õ‰‚‚€€â m4õ‰â m4õ‰‚â m4õ‰‚â m4õ‰â m4õ‰‚ÿRemember that it is the Lord who is the interpreter of dreams , not your own fanciful wishes (See Daniel 2:28).Group or Individual Activity: Get one person to relate briefly the story of Joseph (particularly concerning his dreams) and then discuss what lessons you can learn from him about dreams.Was he wise in sharing his dreams when he did ?What had to happened first before his dream was fulfilled ? What significance is there in the fact that he had to interpret other's (Baker and Butler) dreams while his seemed dead ?# +Œ 4 6€ß€€‚âm4õ‰‚‚âÍt4õ‰‚‚ÿAnything else ?Look also at the other verses above (and also Acts 16:7-10) and comment on the kinds of revelation given and give any testimonies to help others understand better.You can also seeMy Testimony of a God-Given Dream.J‹ uŒ / .€8€€ †"€*‚ÿ(ii) Divine Visitation.í¯+Œ bŽ > J€_€€‚‚‚âZf4õ‰â†f4õ‰â}f4õ‰‚‚‚‚‚‚ÿVisitation of Jesus Himself or Angels.Read Exodus 33:19-13, Joshua 5:13-15 and Luke 1:10-14 and comment on the kind of visitation in each case.What seems to be the purpose of each visitation ? Discuss.Can such things happen today ? Tell any stories of such instances if any.Angels may be sent to warn or to encourage (by providing physical needs and safety). They may also come with significant announcements.KuŒ ­Ž / .€:€€ †"€‚ÿ(iii) Signs and Wonders.=bŽ öÀ 9 @€ €€‚ãN‰‚‚€€âm4õ‰‚ÿArticle about Signs and Wonders.WARNING: Don't seek this last category (Supernatural guidance). If God wants to He will speak supernaturally. God may actually use more of this kind of guidance for immature and younger Christians but He expects us to mature to hear His still­Ž öÀ ^€ ,small voice in our spirit. Although, in crucial times, He still does speak supernaturally (eg. Paul's Macedonian vision (See Acts 16:7-10)- this was a crucial turning point in world mission (to another completely new continent).)û»­Ž ñ @ N€w€‚H€‚â~f4õ‰‚‚‚‚‚‚€ƒã«ïr€‰‚ÿ Click here for a Group Excercise. Supernatural guidance is still possible and we should not shut ourselves off from this possibility. On the other hand we must not actively seek for this form of guidance as it is subject to the sovereignty of God. In the End Times, especially as the time of the Antichrist approaches, we can expect an escalation of this form of guidance among God's people. ·Go back and continue your study.(öÀ à % €€‚H€‚ÿ(ñ Aà % €€‚H€‚ÿ1à rà 1ÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿ‰ÿÿÿÿrà AÄ ÏAà AÄ P p€þ€€†F€ÀCá[*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV‚‚‚€‚ÿ"For by wise counsel you will wage your own war, and in a multitude of counselors there is safety."Proverbs 24:6 (NKJV)1rà rÄ 1ÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿŠÿÿÿÿrÄ @Å Î~AÄ @Å P p€ü€€†F€ÀCé_*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV‚‚‚€‚ÿ"Confidence in an unfaithful man in time of trouble is like a bad tooth and a foot out of joint."Proverbs 25:19 (NKJV)1rÄ qÅ 1¬ÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿ‹ÿÿÿÿqÅ ìÆ {(@Å ìÆ S t€Q€€†F€ÀCñh*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV‚‚‚‚‚€‚ÿ"Then Nathan said to the king, "Go, do all that is in your heart, for the LORD is with you."But it happened that night that the word of the LORD came to Nathan, saying,"Go and tell My servant David, 'Thus says the LORD: "Would you build a house for Me to dwell in?"2 Samuel 7:3-5 (NKJV)1qÅ Ç 1WÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿŒÿÿÿÿÇ CË hìÆ …É O l€3€€†F€ÀC±o*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV‚‚‚‚‚ÿ"Then Moses said to the LORD, "O my Lord, I am not eloquent, neither before nor since You have spoken to Your servant; but I am slow of speech and slow of tongue."So the LORD said to him, "Who has made man's mouth? Or who makes the mute, the deaf, the seeing, or the blind? Have not I, the LORD? "Now therefore, go, and I will be with your mouth and teach you what you shall say."Exodus 4:10-12 (NKJV)"And I, brethren, when I came to you, did not come with excellence of speech or of wisdom declaring to you the testimony of God.Ÿ‘Ç CË - (€#€€‚‚‚‚‚‚€‚ÿFor I determined not to know anything among you except Jesus Christ and Him crucified."1 Corinthians 2:1-2 (NKJV)"If anyone speaks, let him speak as the oracles of God. If anyone ministers, let him do it as with the ability which God supplies, that in all things God may be glorified through Jesus Christ, to whom belong the glory and the dominion forever and ever. Amen."1 Peter 4:11 (NKJV)1…É tË 1÷ÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿtË Á CóCË ·Í P n€ç€€†F€ÀC‘r*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV‚‚‚‚‚‚ÿ"Having then gifts differing according to the grace that is given to us, let us use them: if prophecy, let us prophesy in proportion to our faith;or ministry, let us use it in our ministering; he who teaches, in teaching;he who exhorts, in exhortation; he who gives, with liberality; he who leads, with diligence; he who shows mercy, with cheerfulness."Romans 12:6-8 (NKJV)"For to one is given the word of wisdom through the Spirit, to another the word of knowledge through the same Spirit,ïtË ÏÏ ) €ß€€‚‚‚‚‚‚ÿto another faith by the same Spirit, to another gifts of healings by the same Spirit,to another the working of miracles, to another prophecy, to another discerning of spirits, to another different kinds of tongues, to another the interpretation of tongues."1 Corinthians 12:8-10 (NKJV)"And He Himself gave some to be apostles, some prophets, some evangelists, and some pastors and teachers,for the equipping of the saints for the work of ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ,æŒ·Í Á * "€y€€‚‚‚€‚ÿtill wÏÏ Á CË e all come to the unity of the faith and of the knowledge of the Son of God, to a perfect man, to the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ;Ephesians 4:11-13 (NKJV)1ÏÏ ò 1ÍÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿŽÿÿÿÿò Ž Y Á K L f€€€†F€ÀC5d*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV‚‚ÿ"...that Hanani one of my brethren came with men from Judah; and I asked them concerning the Jews who had escaped, who had survived the captivity, and concerning Jerusalem.And they said to me, "The survivors who are left from the captivity in the province are there in great distress and reproach. The wall of Jerusalem is also broken down, and its gates are burned with fire." So it was, when I heard these words, that I sat down and wept, and mourned for many days; I was fasting and praying before the God of heaven."Cò Ž ( €6€€‚‚€‚ÿNehemiah 1:2-4 (NKJV)1K ¿ 10ÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿ¿ Ÿ ¬aŽ k K d€Ã€€†F€ÀCÙu*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV‚ÿ"Then the boy Samuel ministered to the LORD before Eli. And the word of the LORD was rare in those days; there was no widespread revelation. And it came to pass at that time, while Eli was lying down in his place, and when his eyes had begun to grow so dim that he could not see, and before the lamp of God went out in the tabernacle of the LORD where the ark of God was, and while Samuel was lying down, that the LORD called Samuel. And he answered, "Here I am!". So he ran to Eli and said, "Here I am, for you called me." And he said, "I did not call; lie down again." And he went and lay down. And the LORD called yet again, "Samuel!" So Samuel arose and went to Eli, and said, "Here I am, for you called me." And he answered, "I did not call, my son; lie down again." (Now Samuel did not yet know the LORD, nor was the word of the LORD yet revealed to him.)ê¿ z % €Õ€€‚‚ÿAnd the LORD called Samuel again the third time. Then he arose and went to Eli, and said, "Here I am, for you did call me." Then Eli perceived that the LORD had called the boy. Therefore Eli said to Samuel, "Go, lie down; and it shall be, if He calls you, that you must say, 'Speak, LORD, for Your servant hears.'" So Samuel went and lay down in his place. Now the LORD came and stood and called as at other times, "Samuel! Samuel!" And Samuel answered, "Speak, for Your servant hears."Dk Ÿ ( €8€€‚‚€‚ÿ1 Samuel 3:1-10 (NKJV)1z ï 1ÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿï Ý ¯dŸ ž K d€É€€†F€ÀCíx*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV‚ÿ"Then Saul, still breathing threats and murder against the disciples of the Lord, went to the high priest and asked letters from him to the synagogues of Damascus, so that if he found any who were of the Way, whether men or women, he might bring them bound to Jerusalem. And as he journeyed he came near Damascus, and suddenly a light shone around him from heaven. Then he fell to the ground, and heard a voice saying to him, "Saul, Saul, why are you persecuting Me?" And he said, "Who are You, Lord?" And the Lord said, "I am Jesus, whom you are persecuting. It is hard for you to kick against the goads." So he, trembling and astonished, said, "Lord, what do You want me to do?" And the Lord said to him, "Arise and go into the city, and you will be told what you must do." And the men who journeyed with him stood speechless, hearing a voice but seeing no one."?ï Ý ( €.€€‚‚€‚ÿActs 9:1-7 (NKJV)1ž  1æÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿ‘ÿÿÿÿ {A v%Ý @ Q p€K€€†F€ÀC |*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV‚‚‚‚‚‚‚ÿ"And it shall come to pass afterward that I will pour out My Spirit on all flesh; your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, your old men shall dream dreams, your young men shall see visions."Joel 2:28 (NKJV)"Now Joseph had a dream, and he told it to his brothers; and they hated him even more."Genesis 37:5 (NKJV)"Then he became very hungry and wanted to eat; but while they made ready, he fell into a tran @ Ý ce and saw heaven opened and an object like a great sheet bound at the four corners, descending to him and let down to the earth."ëŸ {A - (€}€€‚‚‚‚‚‚€‚ÿActs 10:10-11 (NKJV)"In the third year of the reign of King Belshazzar a vision appeared to me-- to me, Daniel-- after the one that appeared to me the first time."Daniel 8:1 (NKJV)1@ ¬A 1aÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿ’ÿÿÿÿ¬A ÜB 0ß{A ÜB Q p€¿€€†F€ÀCÑk*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV‚‚‚€‚ÿ"But there is a God in heaven who reveals secrets, and He has made known to King Nebuchadnezzar what will be in the latter days. Your dream, and the visions of your head upon your bed, were these:"Daniel 2:28 (NKJV)1¬A C 1‚ÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿ“ÿÿÿÿ C ^E ÄÜB E K d€‰€€†F€ÀC…~*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV‚ÿ"Now My soul is troubled, and what shall I say? 'Father, save Me from this hour'? But for this purpose I came to this hour. "Father, glorify Your name." Then a voice came from heaven, saying, "I have both glorified it and will glorify it again." Therefore the people who stood by and heard it said that it had thundered. Others said, "An angel has spoken to Him." Jesus answered and said, "This voice did not come because of Me, but for your sake."B C ^E ( €4€€‚‚€‚ÿJohn 12:27-30 (NKJV)1E E 1ÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿ”ÿÿÿÿE yH Š[^E 5H K d€·€€†F€ÀCý€*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV‚ÿ"Then He said, "I will make all My goodness pass before you, and I will proclaim the name of the LORD before you. I will be gracious to whom I will be gracious, and I will have compassion on whom I will have compassion." But He said, "You cannot see My face; for no man shall see Me, and live." And the LORD said, "Here is a place by Me, and you shall stand on the rock. "So it shall be, while My glory passes by, that I will put you in the cleft of the rock, and will cover you with My hand while I pass by. "Then I will take away My hand, and you shall see My back; but My face shall not be seen."DE yH ( €8€€‚‚€‚ÿExodus 33:19-23 (NKJV)15H ªH 1ÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿ•ÿÿÿÿªH yK ŒAyH 6K K d€ƒ€€†F€ÀCuƒ*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV‚ÿ"And it came to pass, when Joshua was by Jericho, that he lifted his eyes and looked, and behold, a Man stood opposite him with His sword drawn in His hand. And Joshua went to Him and said to Him, "Are You for us or for our adversaries?" So He said, "No, but as Commander of the army of the LORD I have now come." And Joshua fell on his face to the earth and worshiped, and said to Him, "What does my Lord say to His servant?" Then the Commander of the LORD'S army said to Joshua, "Take your sandal off your foot, for the place where you stand is holy." And Joshua did so."CªH yK ( €6€€‚‚€‚ÿJoshua 5:13-15 (NKJV)16K ªK 1.ÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿ–ÿÿÿÿªK §M ý«yK §M R r€W€€†F€ÀC݇*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV‚‚‚‚€‚ÿ"Then an angel of the Lord appeared to him, standing on the right side of the altar of incense.And when Zacharias saw him, he was troubled, and fear fell upon him. But the angel said to him, "Do not be afraid, Zacharias, for your prayer is heard; and your wife Elizabeth will bear you a son, and you shall call his name John. "And you will have joy and gladness, and many will rejoice at his birth."Luke 1:10-14 (NKJV)1ªK ØM 1^ÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿ—ÿÿÿÿØM € -Û§M € R r€·€€†F€ÀCUŠ*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV‚‚‚‚€‚ÿThe group separates into pairs and one of the pair is blindfolded. The one who can see must use whatever means they can to guide the other round a specified course (around the building where you are located, preferably using staircases).It is not a race, but an excercise of trust in listening to the instructions of the one who can see. Let each person have a turn in being blindfolded and led.Have a time of sharing back how they felt and the many lessons learntØM € §M . 1ØM B€ 1ÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿ˜ÿÿÿÿB€ - 뎀 - ] ˆ€€€†F€ÀC•*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAVâ¢z`/‰âwt4õ‰‚‚‚€‚ÿ"God is faithful, by whom you were called(kaleo) into the fellowship of His Son, Jesus Christ our Lord."1 Corinthians 1:9 (NKJV)1B€ ^ 1Mÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿ™ÿÿÿÿ^ z‚ ¹- z‚ c ”€s€€†F€ÀCå`*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAVâ¢z`/‰ânt4õ‰ânt4õ‰‚‚‚€‚ÿ"For you, brethren, have been called(kaleo) to liberty; only do not use liberty as an opportunity for the flesh, but through love serve one another."Galatians 5:13 (NKJV)1^ «‚ 1Cÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿšÿÿÿÿ«‚ œƒ µz‚ œƒ ] ˆ€k€€†F€ÀC1e*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAVâ¢z`/‰âot4õ‰‚‚‚€‚ÿ"But if the unbeliever departs, let him depart; a brother or a sister is not under bondage in such cases. But God has called(kaleo) us to peace."1 Corinthians 7:15(NKJV)1«‚ îƒ 1Xÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿ›ÿÿÿÿîƒ … 'Êœƒ … ] ˆ€•€€†F€ÀCŗ*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAVâpt4õ‰â¢z`/‰‚‚‚€‚ÿ"Fight the good fight of faith, lay hold on eternal life, to which you were also called(kaleo) and have confessed the good confession in the presence of many witnesses."1 Timothy 6:12 (NKJV)1îƒ F… 1ûÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿœÿÿÿÿF… † Ên… † \ ˆ€Ü€€†F€ÀC š*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAVâ¢z`/‰âqt4õ‰‚‚‚€‚ÿ"For God did not call(kaleo) us to uncleanness, but in (unto) holiness."1 Thessalonians 4:7 (NKJV)8F… H† 1°ÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿH† ö† Î Topic21®L† ö† b ”€š€€†F€ÀCœœ*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+NEXT.WAV€ †"€*â­f4õ€‰€ ‚ÿThe General Process Of Our Calling.Process of Our Calling Diagram.Ñ H† LJ 1 0€A€€‚€â­f4õ‰‚‚‚‚ÿWe will now relate the diagram The Process of Our Calling. more specifically to our own walks with the Lord.There are several things we should note...P*ö† ˆ & €T€€ ‚ÿ(a) We Were Called Before We Were Born.™MLJ °Š L f€›€€‚‚€€â×f4õ‰âØf4õ‰â›y`/‰âwy`/‰‚‚ât4õ‰‚ÿGroup or Individual Activity: Read Jeremiah 1:4-9, Psalm 149:16, Ephesians 2:10 and 2 Timothy 1:9. Comment on each verse. What is the significance that our call happens even before we are born ? Indeed, God calls each one of us even before we are Christians (See these Scriptures on being called from the Womb) - but until we are born again we cannot 'enter in' to that calling. However, you will find certain indications of God's call on your life even before you are born again (the unique way God has made you , with the talents and interests that you have etc..) Û§ˆ ‹Œ 4 6€O€€‚€€âžt4õ‰‚‚‚‚ÿGroup or Individual Activity: See this Quote by Jim Elliot and comment on what 'childhood dreams' could actually be part of His 'call' on your life.For me, at school I was drawn to a half-chinese (from Malaysia) who was ridiculed by others. Little did I know that my best friend was part of my call to South East Asia - this was a God-given burden at a young age that revealed something of God's call on my life.pJ°Š ûŒ & €”€€ ‚ÿ(b) The Revelation Of Our Calling Comes Early On In Our Christian Life.žs‹Œ ³ E X€ç€€‚€‚€âz`/‰âÙf4õ‰âÚf4õ‰‚‚‚‚‚‚‚‚ÿGroup or Individual Activity: Read Genesis 12:1-3 (compare with Joshua 24:2-3 and Acts 7:2-4).Think about/discuss what were the main elements of Abraham's initial realization of His calling. List them down.You will find that the first real understanding of His calling contains the following characteristics...(1) You will see the BIG PICTURE (Point Z) of your calling in a very general sense (Genesis 12:2-3).(2) You will have revelation of a definite INITIAL STEP (Step A) (Genesis 12:1 - Abraham's initial step of faith was to leave his home and family and go by faith to a place God would show him).a:ûŒ  ' €u€€‚‚‚‚ÿ(3) It will not conflict with the ge³  † neral counsel of Scripture and there will be a peaceful witness in your spirit. (Will agree with God's overall vision for mankind as we have seen).(4) Outside words and circumstances will confirm your own witness (more dramatic at first). Later you will find that the circumstances may actually be very much AGAINST the promise of God being fulfilled (in Abraham's life we see this - his wife was barren etc..) so beware using circumstances as a guide. However, initially you may find God using dramatic circumstantial guidance.Z³ ŸÂ % €Ž€€‚‚‚ÿ(5) Moving in the calling will bring excitement, growth and joy (if moving in grace).T.  ó & €\€€ ‚ÿ(c) There Will Be Milestones Along The Way.é­ŸÂ ÜÄ < F€[€€‚‚€€âÛf4õ‰âm4õ‰‚‚‚‚‚ÿGroup or Individual Activity: Read Proverbs 4:18-21 carefully and comment on the truths it brings forth. What do we learn about the clarity of our path as we walk in Righteousness ?Our calling is from glory to glory, from faith to faith. It will become clearer as God gives specific foundational and directional words along the way.With Abraham, we see three areas getting clearer as he moves out on God's Word...äó ïÅ / ,€É€€‚âm4õ‰‚‚ÿ1 - THE LAND = AREA OF CALLING (Area/Sphere of Ministry)2 - OFFSPRING = FRUIT OF CALLING (Results Of Ministry - which people we are to reach. )3 - RELATIONSHIP WITH GOD = MATURING IN THE CALLING (Growth in the Ministry)(ÜÄ Æ $ €€€‚‚ÿ0ïÅ GÆ , (€ €€†"€‚ÿ(ôÆ oÈ 4 6€é€€‚€€â«f4õ‰‚‚‚‚ÿGroup or Individual Activity: Look at Abraham's General ProcessOf Calling for some time and list out all the significant things you can note from the diagram.What do you notice about Abraham's revelation knowledge about his sphere of ministry (the land) ? How can we apply this to us ?What do we learn about Abraham's offspring ? How can we apply this to our own revelation of the people we are to reach for Him ?How about Abraham's relationship with God ? What stages does it go through ?qLGÆ àÈ % €˜€€‚‚‚ÿFinally, look at this chart about the significance of the place names..2oÈ É - *€ €€†"€ ‚‚ÿ©sàÈ »Ë 6 :€ç€€â«f4õ‰‚‚â«f4õ‰‚‚‚‚‚ÿLook at the order and the timing that Abraham went to these places in Abraham's General ProcessOf Calling and show how it gives a general pattern for our own callings.We can extract the following principles from the diagram on Abraham's General ProcessOf Calling:(1) There is a progressive clarity in his calling as he moves in obedience to God's revealed word to him. This is the same for us in the outworking of His call on our lives.(2) Each step has a specific thing for Abraham to do - this is not fully revealed until he has completed the previous step (the 'unveiling' of God's will) - this is true for us.]*É Î 3 4€U€€‚‚‚‚‚âg4õ‰‚‚‚‚‚ÿ(3) The promise becomes MORE SPECIFIC with each step (and the VISION GETS BIGGER).(4) There are progressive testings (Faith troubled to faith tested to faith triumphant).(5) Point Z should always be in mind (See 1 Peter 1:7-9 ).(6) There is a progressive development in all three areas (Land, offspring and relationship with God).From the life of Abraham we have extracted vital principles that can be applied to the process of calling of every Christian. You may need to go over the diagrams once more before going onto the next section. …Y»Ë Î , (€²€€‚‚‚ãåÛêA‰‚ÿYou have now finished this section.Go back to recap and then continue the lesson.8Î ÕÎ 1-ÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿžÕÎ —Ï ×B Topic22ÂhÎ —Ï Z „€Ð€€†F€ÀC%[*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+NEXT.WAV€ ‚âžz`/€‰€ ‚ÿThe Process of Announcing, Appointing and Anointing.Announcing,Appointing and Anointing chart.ôÈÕÎ — , &€‘€€‚€€‚‚ÿGroup or Individual Activity: Look at the diagram below t—Ï — Î hat shows the basic three phases we all need to go through in our calls. Look at the Biblical examples given and discuss what you learn.0—Ï Ç , (€ €€†"€‚ÿ=—  9 @€ €€‚âþf4õ‰€€€€‚‚‚ÿThere are three definite stages we should go through in our callings. They may be related to Revelation 17:14 which states that we are to be 'Called, Chosen and Faithful'. However, not everyone makes it even to the second stage ('many are called but few are chosen') many times because they are unaware that their Christian life should lead to faithful obedience in God's mission. This lesson takes a look at these three stages and the characteristics of each, citing Biblical examples of this process. o7Ç s 8 >€o€€‚€‚‚€€‚‚âþf4õ‰‚ÿThe Three Stages. Group or Individual Activity: Look at the chart again that shows the basic three phases we all need to go through in our calls (click on the link under the title above). Look at the Biblical examples given and discuss what you learn. From this diagram we see that the three stages start with an 'Announcing' stage. This relates to the 'called' stage of Revelation 17:14. We are called even before our birth but there will be a definite season of the Lord's 'Announcing' of our call in a recognizable way. For David this was when the Prophet Samual first announced he was to be King of Israel. For the Disciples, this was when Jesus first said 'follow me'. For us there will be a time when the direction of our life will be indicated divinely in a tangible, recognizable way. é ‚ & €Ó€€‚‚‚ÿThe second stage, being 'Appointed' or 'Chosen', is in direct correlation with our reponse to the first stage. We must seek the Lord's will as revealed in the 'Announcing' stage by praying through it and aligning our lives in accordance with God's specific word. This will lead to a definite time where we are 'Appointed' (recognised as being chosen). Usually this will be a time of official appointing in the Church (laying on of hands etc.) into the ministry God isleading you into. Not all who are called are chosen (appointed) because they fail to respond favourably to His calling. Davids time of appointing came at Hebron because he had followed up on the call of God in his life which led to an official recognition of his ministry. äs ¡ ; D€É€€‚‚‚€€‚‚€€âz`/‰‚ÿThe third stage is the most important - it is that which will cause God to say 'Well done good and faithful servant.' We may be appointed into ministry but we must prove ourself faithful in it. David proved himself faithful as King in Hebron and was made king over all of Israel because of it. This is the stage where we will really move in the fullness of anointing God has for us. This Process As Seen In Abraham's Life.You will find that this is a process that is revealed throughout Scripture, foreshadowed in the life of Abraham. In Abraham's life we see that the ANNOUNCING of his call came in Genesis 12:1-3 through to the end of chapter 14. This was his preparation and his initial revelations concerning his destiny.Ô‚ Š 1 0€©€€‚€€âžz`/‰‚ÿHowever , it was not until Genesis chapter 15, where God cuts covenant with him, is it that he is appointed to bear the promise. This is his APPOINTING (this is where we enter into the actual ministry God has called us into - in David's case he entered partially, ruling over only Judah initially as a precursor to his ruling the whole nation: see again the Announcing,Appointing and Anointing diagram). This stage is GOD GIVING ALL TO US (External covenant).Ö¡ µ@ - (€­€€‚‚€€‚‚ÿAppointing usually comes with the laying on of hands and a recognition among mature Christians of the call on your life and a commissioning into that ministry.The last stage in Abraham's life can be seen in Genesis Chapters 17-25 where he receives circumcision just before the fulness of the promisŠ µ@ Î e. This is US GIVING ALL TO GOD (Internal covenant). It's the time of ANOINTING - moving in God's empowering for the ministry He has given us in greater measures. "Ί ×B T v€€€âþf4õ‰â#z`/‰€€€€€€‚‚‚‚âÿf4õ‰‚‚ãåÛêA‰‚ÿIndeed this whole process can be summed up in Revelation 17:14. If we are to truly be the OVERCOMERS He has ordained us to be, we must be CALLED (Announcing stage), CHOSEN (Appointing Stage) and FAITHFUL (Anointing Stage). Many are called , but few are chosen and even fewer will be found faithful! Let us determine in our hearts to be one of those overcomers! A group Excercise on this topic.Go back to recap and then continue the lesson.8µ@ C 1¯ÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿŸC ¯C À Topic23 F×B ¯C Z „€Œ€€†F€ÀC`*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+NEXT.WAV€ ‚âªf4õ€‰€ ‚ÿThe Process of Separation.The Process Of Separation diagram.Í|C |F Q p€ù€€‚‚€‚‚‚‚ãN‰ãN‰â/g4õ‰ãN‰ãN‰âhn4õ‰‚ÿWe will look at diagram. Have an initial peek by clicking on the link above.It must be noted that in each stage (Announcing, Appointing and Anointing) there will be certain tests we had to go through. In Abraham's life we see some of these tests. They are actually a call to seperate from various things.It must also be noted that SUFFERING is part and parcel of His Call on our lives. If we are to rule with Him, we will suffer for Him ( Romans 8:17-18). It is not Biblical to say that if we walk in God's call we will not suffer, suffering is the instrument God uses to make us more like Jesus (See this Quote).á¯C ŠH - (€Ã€€‚‚‚€€‚ÿWe must identify where we are (move in God's timing) and understand what God is doing in our lives...throughout our calling God brings us to a place of effectively managing the Promise. This happened to Abraham through a series of progressive SEPARATIONS / TESTINGS.Group or Individual Activity: Look at the following chart and discuss what each test involved (look at the Bible references given) . Discuss which stage you feel you are in and the tests that you can expect.&|F °H # €€€‚ÿ0ŠH àH , (€ €€†"€%‚ÿ?°H J & €3€€‚‚‚ÿYou can generally tell what stage you are at by the level of separation (literally 'holiness') that is evident in your life. Moving through these stages without proper separation is catastrophic in ministries. Let us dig even deeper now into each area of separation needed....P*àH oJ & €T€€‚ÿ(1) ANNOUNCING STAGE: Four Separations.÷ÈJ fK / ,€‘€€‚‚‚‚âªf4õ‰‚‚ÿBefore you even enter fully into your calling (and are appointed in ministry), there are four basic areas that must be dealt with...You can always refer to The Process Of Separation diagram.c7oJ ÉK , (€n€€âg4õ‰‚ÿ(i) IDOLS OF THE WORLD (See 1 Thessalonians 1:9.) þÔfK ÇL * "€©€€‚‚‚€‚ÿThese could be obvious idols or subtle idols such as addiction to TV, unwholesome music etc. As long as you remain 'worshipping' these idols you will never be fully released into His best pleasure for you.f:ÉK -M , (€t€€âWg4õ‰‚ÿ(ii) WRONG BONDAGE TO FAMILY (See Matthew 10:37-39.)ŒeÇL ¹N ' €Ë€€‚‚‚‚ÿThis does not mean dishonouring your parents or family , but it does mean not putting them and their interests above God. This scripture above must be balanced with the rest of Scripture - some cults break up families with a wrong interpretation of this verse. We must still honour our parents, but the best way to honour them is to honour God first.ŒZ-M EO 2 4€Ž€€âg4õ‰âg4õ‰‚ÿ(iii) UNWHOLESOME RELATIONSHIPS (See 2 Thessalonians 3:6 and 1 Corinthians 15:33).6¹N ‡ & €!€€‚‚‚ÿThis could be a wrong boy or girl friend. A close friend who is leading you astray and so on. There is a very real danger of us missing God's bestEO ‡ ×B if we mix ourselves with the wrong company. Generally God will give us warning signals when we enter too deep into such a relationship, but ignoring these warnings too long may harden our hearts. (A WARNING to Married people: don't use this teaching wrongly as an excuse for divorce! The Bible clearly over rides such thinking to say God is for marriage and can make it work.)&EO ­ # €€€‚ÿe9‡ ‚ , (€r€€âg4õ‰‚ÿ(iv) BONDAGE TO POSSESSIONS (See 1 Timothy 6:10-11).yI­ ‹ƒ 0 .€“€€‚‚‚‚‚âg4õ‰‚‚ÿGod will test us in the area of possessions and finance. Is it all yielded up to Him ? Any money we earn is a priviledge, not a right as He owns all. Before entering His ministry we must be faithful in tithing/giving and not covet things or money or it will be the ruin of us and the ministry.See also Matthew 6:30-34.R,‚ ݃ & €X€€‚ÿ(2) APPOINTING STAGE : Three Separations.rC‹ƒ O„ / .€†€€‚‚âªf4õ‰‚€‚ÿYou can always refer to The Process Of Separation diagram.b6݃ ±„ , (€l€€â2g4õ‰‚ÿ(i) UNBELIEF IN GOD'S PROMISE (See Hebrews 3:19).aO„ @† . *€Ã€€‚‚ã^N‰‚‚‚ÿUnbelief in what God has said is not a matter of what we say but is seen in our actions from an unbelieving heart. Not believing means that we will not 'enter His rest' (i.e the full Inheritance He has for us). Belief, trust, faith, is essential to please God and do His will. If we are in the ministry but lack this than we will surely fail.Y-±„ ™† , (€Z€€â)g4õ‰‚ÿ(ii) CARNAL THINKING (See Romans 8:6-7)./@† ȇ - (€€€‚‚ã2N‰‚‚ÿWorking in the ministry in your own strength, own thinking, is terrible! It will bring you to weariness and maybe even a break down. The key is allowing His Spirit to work through you, take His yoke which is easy. We must die to all Self-Sufficiency.U™† Iˆ , (€ª€€â*g4õ‰‚ÿ(iii) FLESH-LIFE (Circumcision - cutting off of flesh) (See Galatians 5:19-21).Ä‘ȇ Š 3 4€#€€‚‚â*g4õ‰ãN‰‚‚ÿTo be effective in ministry there must a dying to self. A stripping away of all fleshly thoughts and deeds. In the list of Galatians 5:19-21 you may look and say you have done none of these. However, the more you ask the Lord to reveal any sin in your life as you meditate on these verses, the more you will see you are guilty. Seek the Lord to show you so you may be cleansed by His Blood.M'Iˆ ZŠ & €N€€‚ÿ(3) ANOINTING STAGE: One Separation.nB Š Ȋ , (€„€€‚‚âªf4õ‰‚‚ÿYou can always refer to The Process Of Separation diagram.L&ZŠ ‹ & €L€€‚ÿ(i) TRUSTING IN THE PROMISE ITSELF.æŸȊ ú ( €}€€‚‚‚‚‚ÿThe biggest test as we move in anointing for us to be proven faithful is this one. We can receive all God has promised but trust in the promise rather than the promiser. Abraham did this and was gravely tested. Was he willing to give up all God had given him ? Are you ?Many ministries fail because the ministers have become so anointed and powerful but , instead of holding lightly onto God's gift that was promised and trusting in God, they start to cling onto the promised ministry and find their fulfillment in it instead of in God. Abraham was willing to 'let go and let God' in the case of offering up Isaac because his fulfillment in life was not in the promised son but in the promiser. ôœ‹ À 7 <€{€€‚‚‚â0g4õ‰‚‚‚‚ãåÛêA‰‚ÿGod will take us through progressive testings/separations so we will have the capacity to 'hold' the ministry He is giving us. We must not fight against this process but yield to God in the midst of them, allowing Him to purify us and strip all hindrances from our lives that we truly would be called, chosen and faithful. A proposed group excercise.You have now finished this section.Go back to recap and then continue the lesson.ú À ×B 8ú DÀ 1yÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿ DÀ «À Topic24g À «À M j€4€€†F€ÀCÙ`*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+NEXT.WAV€ ‚ÿThe Process of Dying.ßDÀ ³Á ) €¿€€‚€‚‚ÿIf we are to sucessfully walk in God's call for our lives we must understand the importance of spiritual death ! Without death in our lives ,and even apparent death of the promise, there can be no resurrection power. ;«À îÁ & €*€€‚ÿ(i) THE BDR CYCLE:(³Á  $ €€€‚‚ÿ2îÁ H - *€ €€†"€‚‚ÿå¿ -Å & €€€‚‚‚ÿA spiritual principle we see throughout Scripture is what we will call the BDR cycle. That is the continual cycle of BIRTH,DEATH and RESURRECTION of the Promise of God. Jesus is the greatest example of this. He is THE PROMISE and we saw His birth, death and resurrection in the Gospels.The two disciples walking on the road to Emmaus away from Jerusalem had given up concerning their hope in Jesus as the Messiah, come to restore God's purpose to His people, because they couldn't handle his death. Jesus had to open their eyes concerning the fact that it was prophecied that He must die for the fullness of God's purposes to be revealed. It was only after His death that His resurrection power wasVH ƒÇ : B€9€€‚‚‚‚€€âz`/‰â«f4õ‰‚ÿunleashed. Now we apply this principle to God's specific promises to each one of us, which also must undergo this cycle...Group or Individual Activity: Look at The BDR Process and comment how this is seen throughout Abraham's life. What was the promise given to Abraham ? How many times did it seem to have died ? How would Abraham feel at such times ? God did God keep the promise alive in each case ? (You can refer to Abraham's General ProcessOf Calling - it will help). What is the relevance in our own callings ? Discuss.wQ-Å úÈ & €£€€‚‚‚ÿThere will be cycles of Birth - Death - Resurrection throughout our Christian walk. God will birth His promise in us by revelation but then the situation will seem impossible (dead) for the fulfillment of this promise. As we trust in Him and believe by faith in His promise we will see the resurrection of the promise in His power. L&ƒÇ FÉ & €L€€‚ÿ(ii) DEAD ENDS OR DEAD BEGINNINGS ?(úÈ nÉ $ €€€‚‚ÿ0FÉ žÉ , (€ €€†"€ ‚ÿ¹nÉ WÌ : B€ÿ€€‚‚âg4õ‰ã2N‰‚‚âg4õ‰‚ÿIn the time where the PROMISE seems dead , impossible, there is a temptation to try to work out the promise by your own effort, in the flesh. Abraham and Sarah did just that and the result was Ishmael (See Genesis 16:1-4). Instead of being a blessed promise, the result was a DEAD END (Islam comes from Ishmael). This comes from relying on our own Self-Sufficiency.Instead, God looks for DEAD BEGINNINGS... hanging on in until the promise seems literally dead - but this is where the resurrection power of God is released! Faith when the promise seems dead, joyfully expecting it's resurrection (See Habakkuk 2:1-3; 3:17-18).>žÉ •Ï : B€ €€‚€€â©f4õ‰‚âÉu4õ‰‚‚‚ÿGroup or Individual Activity: Look at the the diagram on Dead Ends or Dead Beginnings ? and discuss it's meaning.Read this quote and comment on what it means in the light of the above. Has anyone got a testimony in their own life of a dead end ? Or a dead beginning ? Share it now.The crucial time in our calling is when the promises God gives us concerning our specific call are challenged. There will come a time when it seems impossible for God's promise to come to pass (contrary circumstances etc..). It is during this time we must hang on in faith and take God at His Word. If we give in and work things out in our own strength we will be led into dead-ends! If we wait expectantly upon the Lord in faith we will be led into a glorious dead-beginning! ^4WÌ * $€h€€‚ãåÛêA‰‚ÿGo back to recap and then continue the lesson.•Ï À 1•Ï = 1Åÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿ¡ÿÿÿÿ= ™ \ ™ V |€€€†F€ÀCÍZ*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV†"€ €‚ÿ1= Ê 1ÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿ¢ÿÿÿÿÊ & \™ & V |€€€†F€ÀCÕe*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV†"€%€‚ÿ1Ê W 1ÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿ£ÿÿÿÿW ³ \& ³ V |€€€†F€ÀCÑm*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV†"€€‚ÿ1W ä 1ÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿ€ÿÿÿÿä @ \³ @ V |€€€†F€ÀC=t*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV†"€ €‚ÿ1ä q 1ÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿ¥ÿÿÿÿq Í \@ Í V |€€€†F€ÀCv*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV†"€€‚ÿ1q þ 1ëÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿŠÿÿÿÿþ ž ºjÍ ž P p€Ô€€†F€ÀCÅx*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV‚‚‚€‚ÿ"As newborn babes, desire the pure milk of the word, that you may grow thereby,"1 Peter 2:2 (NKJV)1þ é 1vÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿ§ÿÿÿÿé . ¶ž ë L f€m€€†F€ÀC {*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV‚‚ÿ"I write to you, fathers, because you have known Him who is from the beginning. I write to you, young men, because you have overcome the wicked one. I write to you, little children, because you have known the Father.I have written to you, fathers, because you have known Him who is from the beginning. I have written to you, young men, because you are strong, and the word of God abides in you, and you have overcome the wicked one."Cé . ( €6€€‚‚€‚ÿ1 John 2:13-14 (NKJV)1ë _ 1êÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿšÿÿÿÿ_  ¹h.  Q p€Ñ€€†F€ÀCM}*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV‚‚‚€‚ÿ"Therefore, leaving the discussion of the elementary principles of Christ, let us go on to perfection, not laying again the foundation of repentance from dead works and of faith toward God, of the doctrine of baptisms, of laying on of hands, of resurrection of the dead, and of eternal judgment. And this we will do if God permits."Hebrews 6:1-3 (NKJV)1_ I 1€ÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿ©ÿÿÿÿI Œ s" Œ Q p€E€€†F€ÀCÅ*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV‚‚‚€‚ÿ"Therefore I will divide Him a portion with the great, and He shall divide the spoil with the strong, because He poured out His soul unto death, and He was numbered with the transgressors, and He bore the sin of many, and made intercession for the transgressors."Isaiah 53:12 (NKJV)1I í 14ÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿªÿÿÿÿí 𠲌 ð Q p€e€€†F€ÀC ‚*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV‚‚‚€‚ÿ"And the Scripture was fulfilled which says, "Abraham believed God, and it was accounted to him for righteousness." And he was called the friend of God."James 2:23 (NKJV)1í ! 1ëÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿ«ÿÿÿÿ! Û ºjð Û P p€Ô€€†F€ÀCu‡*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV‚‚‚€‚ÿ"Your father Abraham rejoiced to see My (Jesus') day, and he saw it and was glad."John 8:56 (NKJV)1! 1$ÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿ¬ÿÿÿÿ ÿ ó Û ÿ S t€A€€†F€ÀC¹‰*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV‚‚‚‚‚€‚ÿ"By faith Abraham obeyed when he was called to go out to the place which he would receive as an inheritance. And he went out, not knowing where he was going.By faith he dwelt in the land of promise as in a foreign country, dwelling in tents with Isaac and Jacob, the heirs with him of the same promise;for he waited for the city which has foundations, whose builder and maker is God."Hebrews 11:8-10 (NKJV)8 7 1ÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿ­7 š àD Topic25cÿ š M j€,€€†F€ÀCñ•*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+NEXT.WAV€ ‚ÿSome Final Words.çv7 A q °€í€€‚€‚‚ãKîr‰È=EF(`http://members.truepath.com/timshen/teaching.html',`',1)‰‚ÿYou have completed this course for the first time.I would recommend going through again and again as new things are there to see each time.Make sure to apply this material to where you are in the Lord right now. I pray that this material hš A ÿ as been beneficial. If you would like a copy of the expanded printed version please don't hesitate to CONTACT ME (Tim Gibson) letting me know your mailing address. The printed material is US$10 (plus additional postage depending on where you are) and may be ordered online by clicking here . To download the offline version in Help File format or zipped HTML format click here. føš óC n ª€ñ€€‚ãLîr‰‚‚È=EF(`http://members.truepath.com/timshen/teaching.html',`',1)‰‚ÿTake some time looking through the Glossary. This lists out all the popup diagrams, topics and Bible Verses used in this material - for further study this is a useful resource and can be regularly referred to. Please note that this material will regularly updated. To get the most recent copy available keep checking back at Rev.Tim's download page (http://members.truepath.com/timshen/teaching.html). If you want to view the ONLINE version of the Big Picture then go to the following address:ípA àD } Ê€à€€‚ÈKEF(`http://members.xoom.com/FreeChristianDownloads/bigpic/start.htm',`',1)‰‚‚ãÞÛêA‰‚‚‚ÿhttp://members.xoom.com/FreeChristianDownloads/bigpic/start.htmYou can now go back to the Contents.1óC E 1ÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿ®ÿÿÿÿE ûG (ÙàD 9G O l€³€€†F€ÀCeg*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV‚‚‚‚‚ÿ"Then the word of the LORD came to me, saying:"Before I formed you in the womb I knew you; before you were born I sanctified you; I ordained you a prophet to the nations."Then said I: "Ah, Lord GOD! Behold, I cannot speak, for I am a youth."But the LORD said to me: "Do not say, 'I am a youth,' for you shall go to all to whom I send you, and whatever I command you, you shall speak.Do not be afraid of their faces, for I am with you to deliver you," says the LORD.˜E ûG * "€1€€‚‚‚€‚ÿThen the LORD put forth His hand and touched my mouth, and the LORD said to me: "Behold, I have put My words in your mouth."Jeremiah 1:4-9 (NKJV)19G ,H 16ÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿ¯ÿÿÿÿ,H 1I ŽûG 1I Q p€i€€†F€ÀCŗ*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV‚‚‚€‚ÿ"Your eyes saw my substance, being yet unformed. And in Your book they all were written, the days fashioned for me, when as yet there were none of them."Psalm 139:16 (NKJV)1,H bI 1%ÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿ°ÿÿÿÿbI VK ô¢1I VK R r€E€€†F€ÀC¥š*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV‚‚‚‚€‚ÿ"And Joshua said to all the people, "Thus says the LORD God of Israel: 'Your fathers, including Terah, the father of Abraham and the father of Nahor, dwelt on the other side of the River in old times; and they served other gods.'Then I took your father Abraham from the other side of the River, led him throughout all the land of Canaan, and multiplied his descendants and gave him Isaac."Joshua 24:2-3 (NKJV)1bI ‡K 1eÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿ±ÿÿÿÿ‡K »M ¶VK M R r€m€€†F€ÀCéœ*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAVâ@n4õ‰‚‚ÿ"And he said, "Brethren and fathers, listen: The God of glory appeared to our father Abraham when he was in Mesopotamia, before he dwelt in Haran, and said to him, 'Get out of your country and from your relatives, and come to a land that I will show you.' Then he came out of the land of the Chaldeans and dwelt in Haran. And from there, when his father was dead, He moved him to this land in which you now dwell."Acts 7:2-4 (NKJV),‡K »M ' € €€‚€‚ÿ1M ìM 1êÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿ²ÿÿÿÿìM ¥O ¹e»M ¥O T v€Ë€€†F€ÀC-Ÿ*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV‚‚‚‚‚‚€‚ÿ"But the path of the just is like the shining sun, that shines ever brighter unto the perfect day.The way of the wicked is like darkness; they do not know what makes them stumble.My son, give attention to my words; incline your ear to my sayings.Do not let them depart from your eyes; keep them in the midst of your heart;"Proverbs 4:18-21 (NKJV)1ìM ÖO 1˜ÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿ³ÿÿÿÿÖO ҁ ðž¥O ҁ R r€=€€†F€ÀCÖO ҁ ¥O ¥¡*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV‚‚‚‚€‚ÿ"that the genuineness of your faith, being much more precious than gold that perishes, though it is tested by fire, may be found to praise, honor, and glory at the revelation of Jesus Christ,whom having not seen you love. Though now you do not see Him, yet believing, you rejoice with joy inexpressible and full of glory, receiving the end of your faith-- the salvation of your souls."1 Peter 1:7-9 (NKJV)1ÖO ‚ 1ÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿŽÿÿÿÿ‚ oƒ lҁ oƒ W |€+€€†F€ÀCIb*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAVâ¢z`/‰‚‚‚€‚ÿ"These will make war with the Lamb, and the Lamb will overcome them, for He is Lord of lords and King of kings; and those who are with Him are called (kletos) , chosen (ekkletos - appointed, called out of), and faithful (pistos - trustworthy)."Revelation 17:14 (NKJV)1‚  ƒ 1ÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿµÿÿÿÿ ƒ q† Kïoƒ ë… \ †€ß€€†F€ÀCEc*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV‚‚‚‚€‚‚‚‚‚‚€‚‚ÿDivide the group up into fours and ask each team to pick one of the Characters we have looked at to show the Announcing, Appointing, Anointing process in. They must take at least 20 minutes to discuss how they can portray the three stages in one of the following ways:THROUGH SERIOUS DRAMATHROUGH SILENT COMEDYTHROUGH DANCETHROUGH MIMETHROUGH A SERIES OF HUMAN STATUESTHROUGH A NARRATED PLAYPut each of the above methods on a card and ask the teams to pick one card (at random).†^ ƒ q† ( €Œ€€‚‚€‚ÿGive them a time limit to do the activity have a sharing back session on lessons learnt.1ë… ¢† 1ÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿ¶ÿÿÿÿ¢† ‡‰ !Ôq† È M h€©€€†F€ÀCÝi*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV‚‚‚ÿ"Now Sarai, Abram's wife, had borne him no children. And she had an Egyptian maidservant whose name was Hagar.So Sarai said to Abram, "See now, the LORD has restrained me from bearing children. Please, go in to my maid; perhaps I shall obtain children by her." And Abram heeded the voice of Sarai.Then Sarai, Abram's wife, took Hagar her maid, the Egyptian, and gave her to her husband Abram to be his wife, after Abram had dwelt ten years in the land of Canaan.Ě¢† ‡‰ * "€5€€‚‚‚€‚ÿSo he went in to Hagar, and she conceived. And when she saw that she had conceived, her mistress became despised in her eyes."Genesis 16:1-4 (NKJV)1È ž‰ 1Žÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿ·ÿÿÿÿž‰ ; Ƈ‰ ̋ N j€€€†F€ÀCé£*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV‚‚‚‚ÿ"I will stand my watch and set myself on the rampart, and watch to see what He will say to me, and what I will answer when I am corrected.Then the LORD answered me and said: "Write the vision and make it plain on tablets, that he may run who reads it.For the vision is yet for an appointed time; but at the end it will speak, and it will not lie. Though it tarries, wait for it; because it will surely come, it will not tarry.Habakkuk 2:1-3 (NKJV)oBž‰ ; - (€…€€‚‚‚‚‚‚€‚ÿ"Though the fig tree may not blossom, nor fruit be on the vines; though the labor of the olive may fail, and the fields yield no food; though the flock may be cut off from the fold, and there be no herd in the stalls--Yet I will rejoice in the LORD, I will joy in the God of my salvation."Habakkuk 3:17-18 (NKJV)1̋ l 1:ÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿžÿÿÿÿl uŽ ž; uŽ Q p€q€€†F€ÀC•Š*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV‚‚‚€‚ÿ"For they themselves declare concerning us what manner of entry we had to you, and how you turned to God from idols to serve the living and true God,"1 Thessalonians 1:9 (NKJV)1l ŠŽ 1aÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿ¹ÿÿÿÿŠŽ À 0ßuŽ À Q p€¿€€†F€ÀC ©*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV‚‚‚€‚ÿ"But we command you, brethren, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that you withdraw from every brother who walks disorderly and not according to the tradition which he received from us."2 Thessalonians 3:6 (NKJV)ŠŽ À uŽ 1ŠŽ =À 1öÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿºÿÿÿÿ=À èÀ «[ À èÀ P p€¶€€†F€ÀCQ«*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV‚‚‚€‚ÿ"Do not be deceived: "Evil company corrupts good habits."1 Corinthians 15:33 (NKJV)1=À Á 1œÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿ»ÿÿÿÿÁ ¥Â Œ:èÀ ¥Â R r€u€€†F€ÀCZ*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV‚‚‚‚€‚ÿ"For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil, for which some have strayed from the faith in their greediness, and pierced themselves through with many sorrows.But you, O man of God, flee these things and pursue righteousness, godliness, faith, love, patience, gentleness."1 Timothy 6:10-11 (NKJV)1Á Ö 1%ÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿŒÿÿÿÿÖ ÊÅ ,ޥ ŠN j€œ€€†F€ÀCp*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV‚‚‚‚ÿ"Now if God so clothes the grass of the field, which today is, and tomorrow is thrown into the oven, will He not much more clothe you, O you of little faith?"Therefore do not worry, saying, 'What shall we eat?' or 'What shall we drink?' or 'What shall we wear?'"For after all these things the Gentiles seek. For your heavenly Father knows that you need all these things."But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you.ȞÖ ÊÅ * "€=€€‚‚‚€‚ÿ"Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about its own things. Sufficient for the day is its own trouble."Matthew 6:30-34 (NKJV)1Å ûÅ 1ÙÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿœÿÿÿÿûÅ £Æ šXÊÅ £Æ P p€°€€†F€ÀC•­*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV‚‚‚€‚ÿ"So we see that they could not enter in because of unbelief."Hebrews 3:19 (NKJV)1ûÅ ÔÆ 1^ÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿŸÿÿÿÿÔÆ È -Û£Æ È R r€·€€†F€ÀCA°*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV‚‚‚‚€‚ÿ"For to be carnally minded is death, but to be spiritually minded is life and peace.Because the carnal mind is enmity against God; for it is not subject to the law of God, nor indeed can be."Romans 8:6-7 (NKJV)1ÔÆ 2È 1Zÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿ¿ÿÿÿÿ2È [Ê ¶È 5Ê M h€m€€†F€ÀC…²*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV‚‚‚ÿ"Now the works of the flesh are evident, which are: adultery, fornication, uncleanness, lewdness, idolatry, sorcery, hatred, contentions, jealousies, outbursts of wrath, selfish ambitions, dissensions, heresies, envy, murders, drunkenness, revelries, and the like; of which I tell you beforehand, just as I also told you in time past, that those who practice such things will not inherit the kingdom of God."Galatians 5:19-21 (NKJV)&2È [Ê # €€€‚ÿ15Ê ŒÊ 1ÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÀÿÿÿÿŒÊ èÊ \[Ê èÊ V |€€€†F€ÀCÉŽ*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV†"€€‚ÿ1ŒÊ Ë 16ÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÁÿÿÿÿË Î MèÊ fÍ M h€€€†F€ÀCA·*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV‚‚‚ÿ"The Spirit of the LORD shall rest upon Him, the Spirit of wisdom and understanding, the Spirit of counsel and might, the Spirit of knowledge and of the fear of the LORD.His delight is in the fear of the LORD, and He shall not judge by the sight of His eyes, nor decide by the hearing of His ears;But with righteousness He shall judge the poor, and decide with equity for the meek of the earth; he shall strike the earth with the rod of His mouth, and with the breath of His lips He shall slay the wicked."žË Î + $€€€‚‚‚‚€‚ÿIsaiah 11:2-4(NKJV)This is talking about Jesus, but because we are to be 'in Christ' we too are to display the same characteristics. 1fÍ OÎ 1þÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÂÿÿÿÿOÎ ( ÍzÎ ( S t€õ€€†F€ÀC…¹*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV‚‚‚‚‚€‚ÿ"each one's work will become clear; for the Day will declare it, because it will be revealed by fire; and the fire will test each one's work, of what sort it is.If anyone's work which he has built on it endures, he will receive a reward.If anyone's work is burned, he will suffer loss; but he himself will be saved, yet so as through fire."1 CorOÎ ( Î inthians 3:13-15 (NKJV)1OÎ Y 1çÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÃÿÿÿÿY  ¶_(  W |€¿€‚H€†F€ÀCý»*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAVƒ‚‚‚‚‚‚€‚ÿ"Ask of Me, and I will give You the nations for Your inheritance, and the ends of the earth for Your possession.You shall break them with a rod of iron; you shall dash them to pieces like a potter's vessel.'"Psalm 2:8-9 (NKJV)This is talking of the inheritance the Father gives to Jesus. Be we can be joint heirs if we meet His conditions.1Y @ 1³ÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÄÿÿÿÿ@  ‚0  R r€a€€†F€ÀCµZ*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV‚‚‚‚€‚ÿ"and if children, then heirs-- heirs of God and joint heirs with Christ, if indeed we suffer with Him, that we may also be glorified together.For I consider that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory which shall be revealed in us."Romans 8:17-18 (NKJV)1@ ó 1ÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÅÿÿÿÿó _ l _ R r€5€€†F€ÀCé_*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV‚‚‚‚€‚ÿDivide the group into 8 teams each and give each team one of the areas they need to be tested in (Idols of the world, Family bondage etc..).The group then talks together about their area and comes up with a short drama based in modern times about being tested in this area.1ó  1jÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÆÿÿÿÿ É 2ä_  N j€É€€†F€ÀCUl*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV‚‚‚‚ÿ"'You have seen what I did to the Egyptians, and how I bore you on eagles' wings and brought you to Myself."Exodus 19:4 (NKJV)"As an eagle stirs up its nest, Hovers over its young, spreading out its wings, taking them up, carrying them on its wings,so the LORD alone led him, and there was no foreign god with him."He made him ride in the heights of the earth, that he might eat the produce of the fields; he made him to draw honey from the rock, and oil from the flinty rock;" õ â + $€ë€€‚‚‚‚‚‚‚‚ÿDeuteronomy 32:11-13 (NKJV)"Does the eagle mount up at your command, and make its nest on high?On the rocks it dwells and resides, on the crag of the rock and the stronghold. From there it spies out the prey; its eyes observe from afar.Its young ones suck up blood; and where the slain are, there it is."Job 39:27-30 (NKJV)"But those who wait on the LORD shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings like eagles, they shall run and not be weary, they shall walk and not faint."ç¹Â É . *€s€€‚‚‚‚‚‚‚€‚ÿIsaiah 40:31 (NKJV)"And they answered and said to Him, "Where, Lord?" So He said to them, "Wherever the body is, there the eagles will be gathered together."Luke 17:37 (NKJV)1â ú 1ÂÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÇÿÿÿÿú ‹ ‘9É ‹ X ~€s€€†F€ÀCYr*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV‚‚‚‚‚‚‚‚‚‚€‚ÿ"Go to the ant, you sluggard! Consider her ways and be wise,Which, having no captain, overseer or ruler,Provides her supplies in the summer, and gathers her food in the harvest."Proverbs 6:6-8 (NKJV)"The ants are a people not strong, yet they prepare their food in the summer;"Proverbs 30:25 (NKJV)8ú à 1ÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÈà . cB Topic26k‹ . M j€<€€†F€ÀCuu*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+NEXT.WAV€‚ÿOPTIMIZING YOUR SETTINGS.aà œ . *€Ã€€‚€‚‚‚‚‚‚‚ÿThis page is concerned with the presentation of this document, helping you to get the best lay out.Do the following things to get the best out of this material...(1) If the present settings are not to your liking and you prefer different size or type then just click and drag the display screen to suit your desktop and the contents. The present setting has been put as default and is recommended as some pictures need this screen area.(2) If the type is too small, choose the 'options' button and then go to 'font' - choose LARGE - this will make the writing easy to see and also nicer to look at.V.. B ( €]€€‚‚‚‚‚ÿIf ,at any time, you cannoœ B ‹ t see all of the pop-up screen display just increase the size of the display window or change the font size.(3) Make a search of the entire document by clicking on the 'search' button and then on the 'find' folder - follow the instructions and you will get a comprehensive search of this teaching.(4) To print any topic click on the 'print' button. To print a pop-up box just right-click on the mouse over the box and choose 'print' (the same is for 'copy') - unfortunately you cannot seem to copy the diagrams, only writing.Dœ cB * $€4€€‚ãÞÛêA‰‚ÿGo back to Contents.1B ”B 1ÅÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÉÿÿÿÿ”B (G *×cB ŸD S t€¯€€†F€ÀC‰e*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV€€‚‚‚ÿFAST, FASTING Fasting also occurs in the New Testament. Anna at the Temple "served God with fastings and prayers night and day" . John the Baptist led his disciples to fast . Jesus fasted 40 days and 40 nights before His temptation . Using a marriage-feast comparison, however, Jesus insisted that fasting was not suitable for His disciples as long as He, the Bridegroom, was with them . á”B ÈF ) €Ã€‚H€ƒ‚‚‚ÿCornelius was fasting at the time of his vision . The church in Antioch fasted and sent Paul and Barnabas off on the first missionary journey with fasting and prayer . Paul and Barnabas prayed with fasting at the appointment of elders in the churches . Paul suggested that husbands and wives might abstain from sexual intercourse to give themselves to fasting and prayer <1 Cor. 7:5>.(from Nelson's Illustrated Bible Dictionary)`5ŸD (G + &€j€‚H€‚‚‚€‚ÿ(Copyright (C) 1986, Thomas Nelson Publishers)1ÈF YG 1kÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÊÿÿÿÿYG “I À(G gI N j€€€†F€ÀCÍg*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV‚‚‚‚ÿ"Moreover, when you fast, do not be like the hypocrites, with a sad countenance. For they disfigure their faces that they may appear to men to be fasting. Assuredly, I say to you, they have their reward."But you, when you fast, anoint your head and wash your face,"so that you do not appear to men to be fasting, but to your Father who is in the secret place; and your Father who sees in secret will reward you openly."Matthew 6:16-18 (NKJV),YG “I ' € €€‚€‚ÿ1gI ÄI 1ØÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿËÿÿÿÿÄI kO ^ “I "L T v€€€†F€ÀCIw*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV€‚€‚‚‚ÿIMAGE OF GOD The characteristics of man with which God endowed him at creation, distinguishing him from the rest of God's creatures.The expression, "image of God," appears in , and <1 Corinthians 11:7>. Some also see a reference to this image in , and allusions to it in , and . Jesus is referred to as being "the image of the invisible God" and "the express image of His [God's] person" .¿šÄI áN % €5€€‚‚ÿThe Bible does not indicate exactly what the image of God in man is. Man alone has personal, conscious fellowship with God . Man is to take God's place in ruling over and developing the creation . Yet these are possible only because of certain qualities of personality which man alone has ,To be created in the image of God means that we humans have the ability and the privilege of knowing, serving, and loving God, and that we are most fully human when fulfilling our spiritual potential. Every human life is precious to God, and this is exactly how we should treat the people with whom we share the world.Ša"L kO ) "€Â€€‚‚‚€‚ÿ(from Nelson's Illustrated Bible Dictionary)(Copyright (C) 1986, Thomas Nelson Publishers)1áN œO 1¬ ÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÌÿÿÿÿœO P† ‘<kO 9ƒ U x€y€€†F€ÀC]z*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV€‚€‚‚‚‚ÿGLORY BeaœO 9ƒ kO uty, power, or honor; a quality of God's character that emphasizes His greatness and authority. The word is used in three senses in the Bible:1. God's moral beauty and perfection of character. This divine quality is beyond man's understanding . All people "fall short" of it .2. God's moral beauty and perfection as a visible presence. While God's glory is not a substance, at times God does reveal His perfection to man in a visible way. Such a display of the presence of God is often seen as fire or dazzling light, but sometimes as an act of power. Some examples from the Old Testament are the pillar of cloud and fire , the Lord's deliverance of the Israelites at the Red Sea , and especially His glory in the tabernacle and Temple <1 Kin. 8:11>. æœO C… $ €Í€€‚ÿSince the close of the Old Testament, the glory of God has been shown mainly in Christ and in the members of His church. Christ now shares His divine glory with His followers , so that in their lives Christians are being transformed into the glorious image of God <2 Cor. 3:18>. Believers will be fully glorified at the end of time in God's heavenly presence . There the glory of God will be seen everywhere . â9ƒ P† + $€Å€€‚‚‚‚€‚ÿ3. Praise. At times God's glory may mean the honor and audible praise which His creatures give to Him .(from Nelson's Illustrated Bible Dictionary)(Copyright (C) 1986, Thomas Nelson Publishers)8C… ˆ† 1ü ÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÍÿÿÿÿˆ† Xà Topic27¹P† ¡Š ` Ž€s€€†F€ÀCb*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+NEXT.WAV€ €‚‚‚âm4õ‰â>m4õ‰‚ÿFALL, THE The disobedience and sin of Adam and Eve that caused them to lose the state of innocence in which they had been created. This event plunged them and all of mankind into a state of sin and corruption. The account of the Fall is found in .Adam and Eve were created by God in a state of sinless perfection so they could glorify God, reflecting His righteousness on the earth, and enjoy fellowship and union with Him. Their calling was to exercise dominion, or control, over God's creation through their own labors and those of their offspring in faithful response to the word of God. As a specific test of this loyalty, God commanded them not to eat of "the tree of the knowledge of good and evil" . Adam and Eve were to demonstrate their willingness to live "by every word that proceeds from the mouth of the Lord" . God warned them clearly that their disobedience would result in death.öˆ† » $ €í€€‚ÿThe fall from their original state of innocence occurred when Satan approached Eve through the serpent, who tempted her to eat of the forbidden fruit. Satan called into question the truthfulness of what God had spoken about the tree and its significance. He urged Eve to discover, through trial and error, whether it was in her best interest to do what God had forbidden. Eve's sin did not consist of being tempted, but in believing and acting on Satan's lie. Her rejection of God's command occurred when she ate of the forbidden fruit and persuaded her husband to do the same thing. The term Fall should not be interpreted to suggest that their sin was accidental. The temptation was purposeful, and their submission to it involved their willing consent.sO¡Š :À $ €Ÿ€€‚ÿThe immediate consequence of the Fall was death, symbolized by their loss of fellowship with God. For the first time, Adam and Eve experienced fear in the presence of the Lord God; and they hid when He approached . Because of their unbelief and rebellion, they were driven from the garden that God had provided as their home. From that time on, man would experience pain and encounter resistance as he worked at the task of earning his daily bread. Physical death, with the decay of the body, is not a natural process. It entered t» :À P† he human experience as God's curse upon sin.]9» — $ €s€€‚ÿAdam and Eve did not sin simply as private persons, but as the representatives of all members of the human race. Their sin is the sin of all; and all persons receive from them a corrupt nature. It is this nature that stands behind all personal violations of the Lord's commandments. For this reason, the fall of Adam is the fall of the human race. The apostle Paul thought of Christ as the second Adam who would rebuild the old, sinful Adam through His plan of redemption and salvation. "As in Adam all die, even so in Christ all shall be made alive" <1 Cor. 15:22>.Á˜:À Xà ) €1€€‚‚‚‚‚‚ÿ(from Nelson's Illustrated Bible Dictionary)(Copyright (C) 1986, Thomas Nelson Publishers)Press the 'back' button to go back to where you were.8— Ã 1yÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÎÿÿÿÿÃ ØTopic28…1Xà Ç T v€c€€†F€ÀCõb*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+NEXT.WAV€ €‚‚‚‚ÿATONEMENT The act by which God restores a relationship of harmony and unity between Himself and human beings. The word can be broken into three parts which express this great truth in simple but profound terms: "at-one-ment." Through God's atoning grace and forgiveness, we are reinstated to a relationship of at-one-ment with God, in spite of our sin.Human Need. Because of Adam's sin and our own personal sins , no person is worthy of relationship with a Holy God . Since we are helpless to correct this situation and can do nothing to hide our sin from God , we all stand condemned by sin . It is human nature (our sinfulness) and God's nature (His holy wrath against sin) which makes us "enemies" .òÃ 1É * "€å€€ãN‰‚ÿGod's Gift: Atonement. God's gracious response to the helplessness of His chosen people, the nation of Israel, was to give them a means of RECONCILIATION through Old Testament covenant Law. This came in the sacrificial system where the death, or " blood" of the animal was accepted by God as a substitute for the death which the sinner deserved: "For the life of the flesh is in the blood, and I have given it to you upon the altar to make atonement for your souls" .ùÕÇ *Ì $ €«€€‚ÿThe Law required that the sacrificial victims must be free from defect, and buying them always involved some cost to the sinner. But an animal's death did not automatically make people right with God in some simple, mechanical way. The hostility between God and man because of sin is a personal matter. God for His part personally gave the means of atonement in the sacrificial system; men and women for their part personally are expected to recognize the seriousness of their sin . They must also identify themselves personally with the victim that dies: "Then he shall put his hand on the head of the burnt offering, and it will be accepted on his behalf to make atonement for him" . æ1É A% €Í€€‚‚ÿIn the Old Testament, God Himself brought about atonement by graciously providing the appointed sacrifices. The priests represented Him in the atonement ritual, and the sinner received the benefits of being reconciled to God in forgiveness and harmony.Although Old Testament believers were truly forgiven and received genuine atonement through animal sacrifice, the New Testament clearly states that during the Old Testament period God's justice was not served: "For it is not possible that the blood of bulls and goats could take away sins" . Atonement was possible "because in His forbearance God had passed over the sins that were previously committed" . However, God's justice was served in the death of Jesus Christ as a substitute who "not with the blood of goats and calves, but with His own blood He entered the Most Holy Place once for all, having obtained eternal redemption" . "And for this reason H*Ì AXà e is the Mediator of the new covenant" .8*Ì y* "€€€ãN‰‚ÿOur Response. The Lord Jesus came according to God's will "to give His life a ransom for many" , or "for all" <1 Tim. 2:6>. Though God "laid on Him the iniquity of us all" ; (also <2 Cor. 5:21; Gal. 3:13>), yet Christ "has loved us and given Himself for us, an offering and a sacrifice to God" , so that those who believe in Him might receive atonement and "be saved from [God's] wrath" through "the precious blood of Christ" <1 Pet. 1:19>.ÝA|& €»€€‚‚‚ÿNo believer who truly understands the awesome holiness of God's wrath and the terrible hopelessness that comes from personal sin can fail to be overwhelmed by the deep love of Jesus for each of us, and the wonder of God's gracious gift of eternal atonement through Christ. Through Jesus, God will present us "faultless before the presence of His glory with exceeding joy" .(from Nelson's Illustrated Bible Dictionary)(Copyright (C) 1986, Thomas Nelson Publishers)\6yØ& €l€€‚‚‚‚ÿClick the 'back' button to go to where you were.1| 1ÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÏÿÿÿÿ e0ÛØ9U x€·€€†F€ÀCé_*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV€€‚‚‚‚‚ÿSON The male offspring of a husband and wife. The birth of a son brought great joy to the Hebrew family, because a family's heritage and inheritance was preserved through its sons. The word son is also used in a figurative sense in the Bible. Occasionally it refers to remote relatives and dwellers in a specific place, as in the "sons of Javan" . Also see FAMILY.(from Nelson's Illustrated Bible Dictionary)(Copyright (C) 1986, Thomas Nelson Publishers), e' € €€‚€‚ÿ891MÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÐÿÿÿÿÇNTopic29ÌeŒ S t€™€€†F€ÀC9i*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+NEXT.WAV€ €‚‚‚ÿINHERITANCE The receipt of property as a gift or by legal right, usually upon the death of one's father. In ancient Israel the property of a deceased person was usually distributed according to law or tribal custom. Written wills were rarely used. The real and personal property of a father was normally divided among his sons. A larger amount, usually a double portion, went to the eldest son, who assumed the care of his mother and unmarried sisters.ëÌ % €×€€‚‚ÿThe birthright of the firstborn son could be denied only because of a serious offense against the father, as in the case of Reuben . The sons of concubines normally received presents of personal property. If there were no surviving sons, the inheritance went to daughters. The daughters had to marry within the tribe, however, or lose their inheritance. If a man died childless, his estate was received by his brothers or his father's brothers .ùŒ ê % €ó€€‚‚ÿTo the Hebrew mind, the term inheritance had strong spiritual and national associations extending far beyond the family estate. The land of Canaan was regarded as an inheritance from the Lord because God had promised the land to Abraham and his descendants . Both Moses and Joshua were told by the Lord to divide the land of Canaan among the tribes "as an inheritance" . God directed that the land be distributed to each tribe by lot according to its population.=Ì 3B& €/€€‚‚‚ÿEach family, in turn, was assigned a parcel that was to remain in the family's possession. This sense of sacred birthright probably accounted for Naboth's refusal to sell his vineyard to King Ahab: "The Lord forbid that I should give the inheritance of my fathers to you!" <1 Kin. 21:3>.The Greeks relied more on wills for distributing an inheritance than did the Israelites. If a citizen died without a will, his sons in good standing inherited the property in equal parts, the eldest receiviê 3Beng the same as his brothers. Daughters received dowries, which reverted to other heirs if the daughter was divorced or remained childless. If a man had no sons, he usually adopted one to continue the family. If he had daughters, he would arrange for one of them to marry the adopted son. In that instance the major share of the inheritance fell to the daughter and her husband. If only daughters survived, the estate passed to them. If a man died without a will and left no natural or adopted heirs, his closest male relatives received his property.'ê ZD% €€€‚‚ÿAccording to Roman law, the property of a man who died without a will went to his wife and children. But married daughters living with their husbands or children who had been emancipated from their father's authority did not share in the inheritance. If a man left no wife and children, the inheritance passed to his male relatives. The Romans held that a child became his father's heir the moment he was born and that the deceased lived through his heirs. Legally adopted children had full inheritance rights.+3B…F+ $€€€‚ãþ N‰‚ÿThe apostle Paul's glorious concept of a spiritual inheritance for Christians is primarily of Jewish origin. But the doctrine was strongly influenced by Greek and Roman inheritance practices. Three of these influences were: (1) inheritance was regarded as immediate as well as ultimate, (2) all legitimate heirs usually shared the inheritance equally and jointly rather than a division favoring a firstborn son, and (3) legally adopted children enjoyed full inheritance rights along with natural offspring.ëÀZDpI+ $€€€‚ãN‰‚ÿAccording to Paul, the Christian's spiritual inheritance is based strictly on our relationship to Christ. "For you are all sons of God through faith in Jesus Christ.... And if you are Christ's, then you are Abraham's seed, and heirs according to the promise" . This spiritual birthright cannot be inherited by sinners <1 Cor. 6:9-11>. The present possession of the spiritual inheritance as well as its future glory is emphasized in : "The Spirit Himself bears witness with our spirit that we are the children of God, and if children, then heirs-- heirs of God and joint heirs with Christ, if indeed we suffer with Him, that we may also be glorified together" .»”…F+M' €)€€‚‚‚‚ÿPaul also declared that the Spirit's indwelling power is both the sign and seal that we are heirs of God's promise: "Having believed, you were sealed with the Holy Spirit of promise, who is the guarantee of our inheritance" . Those who are redeemed, including the Gentiles, become God's adopted sons with full inheritance rights .Other New Testament passages present the Christian's spiritual inheritance as a reward for faithfulness and Christlikeness. Jesus invited those showing kindness in His name to "inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world" . Peter counseled suffering saints in the Roman world to be patient in their trials, "That you may inherit a blessing" <1 Pet. 3:9>. James declared that the poor of this world have been chosen "to be rich in faith and heirs of the kingdom" which God promised to those who love Him .œqpIÇN+ $€ã€€‚‚‚‚‚‚‚‚ÿIn a burst of joy, Peter celebrated every Christian's "living hope" of his heavenly inheritance: "To an inheritance incorruptible and undefiled and that does not fade away, reserved in heaven for you" <1 Pet. 1:3-4>.(from Nelson's Illustrated Bible Dictionary)(Copyright (C) 1986, Thomas Nelson Publishers)Click the 'back' button to go back to where you were.1+MøN1£ ÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÑÿÿÿÿøNA…mÇNqƒT v€3€€†F€ÀCm;*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV€‚€‚‚‚ÿRIGHTEOUSNESS Holy and upright living, in accordance with God's standard. The word righteousness comes from a root word that means "straightness." It refers to a state that cøNqƒÇNonforms to an authoritative standard. Righteousness is a moral concept. God's character is the definition and source of all righteousness . Therefore, man's righteousness is defined in terms of God's.The sacrificial system in the Old Testament and the cross of Jesus in the New Testament show man's need for righteousness. Sin is disobedience to the terms that define man's relationship with God and with other people. Since the FALL in the Garden of Eden, man is inherently unrighteous. As the prophet Isaiah said, "We are all like an unclean thing, and all our righteousnesses are like filthy rags; we all fade as a leaf, and our iniquities, like the wind, have taken us away" . Man cannot be righteous in the sight of God on his own merits. Therefore, man must have God's righteousness imputed, or transferred, to him.Ð¥øNA…+ $€K€€‚‚‚‚€‚ÿThe cross of Jesus is a public demonstration of God's righteousness. God accounts or transfers the righteousness of Christ to those who trust in Him . We do not become righteous because of our inherent goodness; God sees us as righteous because of our identification by faith with His Son.(from Nelson's Illustrated Bible Dictionary)(Copyright (C) 1986, Thomas Nelson Publishers)8qƒy…1C(ÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÒÿÿÿÿy… Topic30hA…áˆU x€'€€†F€ÀC}e*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+NEXT.WAV€ €‚‚‚‚‚ÿPRAYER Communication with God. Because God is personal, all people can offer prayers. However, sinners who have not trusted Jesus Christ for their salvation remain alienated from God. So while unbelievers may pray, they do not have the basis for a rewarding fellowship with God. They have not met the conditions laid down in the Bible for effectiveness in prayer.Christians recognize their dependence upon their Creator. They have every reason to express gratitude for God's blessings. But they have far more reason to respond to God than this. They respond to the love of God for them. God's love is revealed through the marvelous incarnation and life of Christ, His atoning provision at the Cross, His resurrection, as well as His continuing presence through the Holy Spirit.`;y…A‹% €w€€‚‚ÿPrayer cannot be replaced by devout good works in a needy world. Important as service to others is, at times we must turn away from it to God, who is distinct from all things and over all things. Neither should prayer be thought of as a mystical experience in which people lose their identity in the infinite reality. Effective prayer must be a scripturally informed response of persons saved by grace to the living God who can hear and answer on the basis of Christ's payment of the penalty which sinners deserved. As such, prayer involves several important aspects.`;ሡ% €w€€‚‚ÿFaith. The most meaningful prayer comes from a heart that places its trust in the God who has acted and spoken in the Jesus of history and the teachings of the Bible. God speaks to us through the Bible, and we in turn speak to Him in trustful, believing prayer. Assured by the Scripture that God is personal, living, active, all-knowing, all-wise, and all-powerful, we know that God can hear and help us. A confident prayer life is built on the cornerstone of Christ's work and words as shown by the prophets and apostles in the Spirit-inspired writings of the Bible. ÞA‹¶Á+ $€œ€‚H€ƒ‚‚ƒ‚‚ÿWorship. In worship we recognize what is of highest worth-- not ourselves, others, or our work, but God. Only the highest divine being deserves our highest respect. Guided by Scripture, we set our values in accord with God's will and perfect standards. Before God, angels hide their faces and cry, "Holy, holy, holy is the Lord of hosts" .Confession. Awareness of God's holiness leads to consciousness of our own sinfulness. Like the prophet Isaiah, we exclaim, "Woe is me, for I am undone! Because I am a man of unclean lips, and I dwell in the mid¡¶ÁA…st of a people of unclean lips; for my eyes have seen the King, the Lord of hosts" . By sinning we hurt ourselves and those closest to us; but first of all, and worst of all, sin is against God . We must confess our sins to God to get right with Him. We need not confess them to another being. But we should confess them directly to God, who promises to forgive us of all our unrighteousness <1 John 1:9>.Åš¡{Å+ $€5€‚H€ƒ‚‚ƒ‚‚ÿAdoration. God is love, and He has demonstrated His love in the gift of His Son. The greatest desire of God is that we love Him with our whole being . Our love should be expressed, as His has been expressed, in both deeds and words. People sometimes find it difficult to say to others and to God, "I love you." But when love for God fills our lives, we will express our love in prayer to the one who is ultimately responsible for all that we are.Praise. The natural outgrowth of faith, worship, confession, and adoration is praise. We speak well of one whom we highly esteem and love. The one whom we respect and love above all others naturally receives our highest commendation. We praise Him for His "mighty acts... according to His excellent greatness!" , and for His "righteous judgments" . For God Himself, for His works, and for His words, His people give sincere praise.š€¶Á#È( €€‚H€ƒ‚‚ÿThanksgiving. Are we unthankful because we think we have not received what we deserve? But if we got what we "deserved," we would be condemned because of our guilt. As sinners, we are not people of God by nature. We have no claim upon His mercy or grace. Nevertheless, He has forgiven our sins, granted us acceptance as His people, and given us His righteous standing and a new heart and life. Ingratitude marks the ungodly . Believers, in contrast, live thankfully. God has been at work on our behalf in countless ways. So in evervthing, even for the discipline that is unpleasant, we give thanks .U*{ÅxÊ+ $€U€‚H€ƒ‚‚ƒ‚‚ÿDedicated Action. Christ's example does not require us to withdraw from society, but to render service to the needy in a spirit of prayer. He wept over Jerusalem in compassionate prayer, and then He went into the city to give His life a ransom for many. Authentic prayer will be the source of courage and productivity, as it was for the prophets and apostles.Request. Prayer is not only response to God's grace as brought to us in the life and work of Jesus and the teaching of Scripture; it is also request for our needs and the needs of others.W/#ÈÏÌ( €_€‚H€ƒ‚‚ÿFor good reasons God's holy and wise purpose does not permit Him to grant every petition just as it is asked. Several hindrances to answered prayer are mentioned in the Bible: iniquity in the heart , refusal to hear God's law , an estranged heart , sinful separation from God , waywardness , offering unworthy sacrifices , praying to be seen of men , pride in fasting and tithing , lack of faith , and doubting or double-mindedness .U-xÊ$Ï( €[€‚H€ƒ‚‚ÿMore positively, God has promised to answer our requests when we start helping the hungry and afflicted , when we believe that we will receive what we ask , when we forgive others , when we ask in Christ's name , and when we abide in Christ and His words , pray in the Spirit , obey the Lord's commandments <1 John 3:22>, and ask according to His will <1 John 5:14-15>. Until we have properly responded to God and His Word, He cannot entrust us with His powerful resources.%úÏÌU+ $€õ€‚H€ƒ‚‚ƒ‚‚ÿPrayer is request to a personal Lord who answers as He knows best. We should not think that we will always have success in obtaining the things for which we ask. In His wisdo$ÏUA…m, God hears and answers in the way that is best.Effectiveness. Prayer has power over everything. God can intelligently act in any part of the universe or human history. Although some people think prayer is a waste of time, the Bible declares that "the effective, fervent prayer of a righteous man avails much" .T)$Ï©+ $€S €‚H€ƒ‚‚ƒ‚‚ÿPrayer meets inner needs. One who prays will receive freedom from fear , strength of soul , guidance and satisfaction , wisdom and understanding , deliverance from harm , reward , good gifts , fullness of joy , peace , and freedom from anxiety <1 Pet. 5:7>.Is prayer effective only in the inner lives of those who pray? No, prayer can make a difference in the lives of others. Biblical writers believed prayer for others could result in greater wisdom and power ; inward strength, knowledge of Christ's love, filling with God's fullness ; discernment, approval of what is excellent, filling with the fruits of righteousness ; knowledge of God's will, spiritual understanding, a life pleasing to God, fruitfulness, endurance, patience, joy ; a quiet, peaceable life <1 Tim. 2:1-2>; love for one another and all people, holiness before God <1 Thes. 3:10-13>; comfort and establishment in every good word and work <2 Thes. 2:16-17>; love for God, steadfastness in Christ <2 Thes. 3:5>; the sharing of one's faith, promotion of the knowledge of all that is good ; and equipment for every good work that is pleasing to God .ΣUw + $€G€‚H€ƒ‚‚ƒ‚‚ÿSome people who think prayer can affect others question the ability of God to change His usual patterns in the physical world. But some prayers in the Bible changed nature and physical bodies.Jabez prayed for enlarged borders and protection from harm <1 Chr. 4:10>. Other people in the Bible prayed for deliverance from trouble , deliverance from both poverty and riches , deliverance from the belly of a great fish , daily bread , preservation and sanctification of spirit, soul, and body <1 Thes. 5:23>, the healing of the sick , and the ending of the rain and its beginning again .’d© . *€É€‚H€ƒ‚‚‚‚‚‚‚‚ÿWhen the disciples prayed, the building around them shook and an earthquake opened the doors of their prison . Our prayers do make a difference in how God acts in the world!(from Nelson's Illustrated Bible Dictionary)(Copyright (C) 1986, Thomas Nelson Publishers)Click on the 'back button to go back to where you were.1w : 1¿ÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÓÿÿÿÿ:  @/Ü i S t€¹€€†F€ÀCZ*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV€‚€‚‚ÿDREAMS A state of mind in which images, thoughts, and impressions pass through the mind of a person who is sleeping. Dreams have had a prominent place in the religious literature of ancient peoples. In ancient times, dreams-- especially those of kings and priests-- were thought to convey messages from God . In the Bible these were sometimes prophetic in nature. Elihu stated clearly his belief that God speaks through dreams .Ý: l& €»€€‚‚‚ÿIn a dream God warned Abimelech, the king of Gerar, not to touch Sarah, because she was Abraham's wife. The Lord spoke to Jacob in a dream in which He renewed the COVENANT and assured Jacob of His protection and presence.In the New Testament, God appeared to Joseph in a dream after His announcement of the forthcoming birth of Jesus . God also spoke through these dreams to protect the infant Jesus .(from Nelson's Illustrated Bible Dictionary)\4i  @( €h€€‚‚€‚ÿ(Copyright (C) 1986, Thomas Nelson Publishers)l @ 8lD@1ÇÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÔÿÿÿÿD@°HTopic31"Ï @fBS t€Ÿ€€†F€ÀCY`*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+NEXT.WAV€ €‚‚‚ÿThe Eagle In The BibleEagle. Eagles are included among the unclean birds mentioned in the Bible , (NKJV), but they were admired as majestic birds. The golden eagle, which is really dark brown with sprinkles of gold, has a 26-meter (8-feet) wingspread. It nests in high places that are inaccessible . There, in a nest which the eagle makes larger each year, the eagle hatches two eggs. Usually only one eaglet survives to adulthood.0 D@–C% €€€‚‚ÿAn eagle has keen eyesight. He can spot his prey while soaring hundreds of feet in the air. Like a lightning bolt, he drops to sieze it, killing it quickly with his powerful claws. Then he swoops back to his nest to rip the meat apart and share it with his young.^3fBôE+ $€g€‚H€ƒ‚‚ƒ‚‚ÿA mother eagle carries her eaglet on her back until it masters the art of flying. Moses used this familiar picture from nature to describe God's care for His people. God stirred up Jacob (the nation of Israel), and carried His people on His wings as He delivered them from slavery in Egypt.Solomon marveled at "the way of an eagle in the air" . An eagle can stay aloft for hours, rarely moving his wings and riding wind currents. But many passages in the Bible also speak of the swiftness of the eagle's flight ..–C"H, &€€‚H€ƒ‚‚ƒ‚‚‚ÿThe belief that an eagle renews its strength and youthful appearance after shedding its feathers gave rise to and . Eagles do have a long lifespan, living 20 to 30 years in the wild, and longer in captivity.In the Old Testament, prophets spoke of the eagle as a symbol of God's judgment . In , "two wings of a great eagle" portray God's intervention to deliver His people from persecution.(from Nelson's Illustrated Bible Dictionary)ŽeôE°H) "€Ê€‚H€‚‚‚‚‚ÿ(Copyright (C) 1986, Thomas Nelson Publishers)Click the 'back' buttom to go to where you were.1"HáH1™ÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÕÿÿÿÿáHILÞ‰°H¿KU x€€€†F€ÀCi<*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV€€‚‚‚‚‚ÿANTS OF THE BIBLE Approximately 100 species of ants live in the Holy Land. Harvester ants are the ones meant in and <30:25>. These tiny insects settle near grain fields, carrying seed after seed into their private storehouses. In cold weather these ants cluster together and hibernate. When winter comes, they have food stored up until the next harvest.God has provided ants with such amazing instincts that they appear to reason and plan ahead. If stored grain gets wet, they haul it out into the sun to dry. Their hard work was considered a worthy example for human beings by the writer of Proverbs .ŠaáHIL) "€Â€€‚‚‚€‚ÿ(from Nelson's Illustrated Bible Dictionary)(Copyright (C) 1986, Thomas Nelson Publishers)1¿KzL1…ÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÖÿÿÿÿzLÎNºILNY €€u€€†F€ÀC•b*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV‚‚â@n4õ‰â¡z`/‰‚ÿ"After they had come to Mysia, they tried to go into Bithynia, but the Spirit did not permit them.So passing by Mysia, they came down to Troas.And a vision appeared to Paul in the night. A man of Macedonia stood and pleaded with him, saying, "Come over to Macedonia and help us."Now after he had seen the vision(horama), immediately we sought to go to Macedonia, concluding that the Lord had called us to preach the gospel to them."AzLÎN( €2€€‚‚€‚ÿActs 16:7-10 (NKJV)8NO1C ÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿ×ÿÿÿÿOɈTopic32¶]ÎNȁY €€»€€†F€ÀCõg*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+NEXT.WAV€ €‚‚ãN‰‚ÿSEEK, INQUIREHebrew. darash ^1875^, "to seek, inquire, consult, ask, require, frequent." This word is a common Semitic word, being found in Ugaritic and SyOȁÎNriac as well as in Hebrew in its various periods. It is commonly used in modern Hebrew in its verbal form for "to interpret, expound" and then in its derived noun forms for "sermon, preacher." Occurring more than 160 times in the Old Testament, darash is first used in : "And surely your blood of your lives will I require...." It often has the idea of avenging an offense against God or the shedding of blood (see ).çO׆( €Ï €‚H€ƒ‚‚ÿOne of the most frequent uses of this word is in the expression "to inquire of God," which sometimes indicates a private seeking of God in prayer for direction , and often it refers to the contacting of a prophet who would be the instrument of God's revelation <1 Sam. 9:9; 1 Kings 22:8>. At other times this expression is found in connection with the use of the Urim and Thummim by the high priest as he sought to discover the will of God by the throwing of these sacred stones . Just what was involved is not clear, but it may be presumed that only yes-or-no questions could be answered by the manner in which these stones fell. Pagan people and sometimes even apostate Israelites "inquired of" heathen gods. Thus, Ahaziah instructed messengers: "Go, inquire of Baal-zebub the god of Ekron whether I shall recover of this disease" <2 Kings 1:2>. In gross violation of the Mosaic law , Saul went to the witch of Endor "to inquire of" her, which in this instance meant that she was to call up the spirit of the dead prophet Samuel <1 Sam. 28:3ff.>. Saul went to the witch of Endor as a last resort, saying, "Seek out for me a woman who is a medium, that I may go to her and inquire of her" <1 Sam. 28:7>, RSV.òÄȁɈ. *€‰€‚H€ƒ‚‚‚‚‚‚‚‚ÿThis word is often used to describe the "seeking of" the Lord in the sense of entering into covenantal relationship with Him. The prophets often used darash as they called on the people to make an about-face in living and instead "seek ye the Lord while he may be found..." .(from Vine's Expository Dictionary of Biblical Words)(Copyright (C) 1985, Thomas Nelson Publishers)Click on the 'back' button to go back to where you were.1׆úˆ1âÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿØÿÿÿÿúˆ«ÉɈ‹S t€“€€†F€ÀCÕf*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV€€‚‚‚ÿFRUIT (BEAR), FRUITFUL, UNFRUITFUL Greek: 'karpophoreo' ^2592^, "to bear or bring forth fruit" , is used (a) in the natural sense, of the "fruit of the earth," ; (b) metaphorically, of conduct, or that which takes effect in conduct, (the latter, of evil "fruit," borne "unto death," of activities resulting from a state of alienation from God); in the middle voice; .#öúˆ5) €í€€‚‚‚‚‚‚ÿNote: For "bring forth fruit to perfection (maturity)," (from Vine's Expository Dictionary of Biblical Words)(Copyright (C) 1985, Thomas Nelson Publishers)The main positive use in the New Testament is.... "that you may have a walk worthy of the Lord, fully pleasing Him, being fruitful in every good work and increasing in the knowledge of God;" Colossians 1:10 (NKJV)(NB. The good work is NOT THE FRUIT, but we are to be 'fruitful IN EVERY GOOD WORK' (our motive/ character etc..)).vL‹«* $€˜€€‚‚‚‚€‚ÿIn Galatians 5:22, fruit is 'karpos' which is the root of the above.15܍15ÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÙÿÿÿÿ܍ðö«áO l€m€€†F€ÀCýi*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV‚‚‚‚‚ÿ"in that I command you today to love the LORD your God, to walk in His ways, and to keep His commandments, His statutes, and His judgments, that you may live and multiply; and the LORD your God will bless you in the land which you go to possess."Deuteronomy 30:16 (NKJV)"He turns a wilderness into pools of water, and dry land into watersprings.There He makes the hungry dwell, that they may establish a city for a dwelling place,ƒZ܍pÂ) €µ€áp«€‚‚‚‚‚‚ÿAnd sow fields and plant vineyards, that they may yield a fruitful harvest.He also blesses them, and they multiply greatly; and He does not let their cattle decrease."Psalm 107:35-38 (NKJV)"Thus says the LORD: 'Behold, I will bring back the captivity of Jacob's tents, and have mercy on his dwelling places; the city shall be built upon its own mound, and the palace shall remain according to its own plan.Then out of them shall proceed thanksgiving and the voice of those who make merry; I will multiply them, and they shall not diminish; I will also glorify them, and they shall not be small.€RáðÃ. *€¥€€‚‚‚‚‚‚‚€‚ÿTheir children also shall be as before, and their congregation shall be established before Me; and I will punish all who oppress them."Jeremiah 30:18-20 (NKJV)"saying, "Surely blessing I will bless you, and multiplying I will multiply you."And so, after he had patiently endured, he obtained the promise."Hebrews 6:14-15 (NKJV)1pÂ!Ä1 ÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÚÿÿÿÿ!ÄÆïðÃÆ` Ž€€€†F€ÀCEm*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV€€‚‚‚‚‚‚‚‚‚‚‚‚€‚ÿTHE EARTH SHALL BE FILLED..."And blessed be His glorious name forever! And let the whole earth be filled with His glory. Amen and Amen."Psalm 72:19 (NKJV)"For the earth will be filled with the knowledge of the glory of the LORD, as the waters cover the sea."Habakkuk 2:14 (NKJV)"but truly, as I live, all the earth shall be filled with the glory of the LORD--"Numbers 14:21 (NKJV)1!ÄAÆ1}ÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÛÿÿÿÿAƍÇLïƍÇ] ˆ€ß€€†F€ÀCño*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV€€‚‚‚‚‚‚‚‚€‚‚ÿDOMINION.Strongs - 7287 radah (raw-daw');a primitive root; to tread down, i.e. subjugate; specifically, to crumble off: KJV-- (come to, make to) have dominion, prevail against, reign, (bear, make to) rule,- r, over), take.8AÆÅÇ1r ÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÜÿÿÿÿÅÇæTopic33ÍÇÛÈS t€‡€€†F€ÀC¥r*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+NEXT.WAV€ €‚‚‚ÿADOPTION The act of taking voluntarily a child of other parents as one's child; in a theological sense, the act of God's grace by which sinful people are brought into his redeemed family.íÂÅÇÈË+ $€…€‚H€ƒ‚‚ƒ‚‚ÿIn the New Testament, the Greek word translated adoption literally means "placing as a son." It is a legal term that expresses the process by which a man brings another person into his family, endowing him with the status and privileges of a biological son or daughter.In the Old Testament, adoption was never common among the Israelites. Adoption in the Old Testament was done by foreigners or by Jews influenced by foreign customs. Pharaoh's daughter adopted Moses and another pharaoh adopted Genubath <1 Kin. 11:20>. Furthermore, there is no Hebrew word to describe the process of adoption. When the Pharaoh's daughter adopted Moses, the text says, "And he became her son" .íÛÈÝÍ( €Û€‚H€ƒ‚‚ÿBy New Testament times, Roman customs exercised a great deal of influence on Jewish family life. One custom is particularly significant in relation to adoption. Roman law required that the adopter be a male and childless; the one to be adopted had to be an independent adult, able to agree to be adopted. In the eyes of the law, the adopted one became a new creature; he was regarded as being born again into the new family-- an illustration of what happens to the believer at conversion.°…ÈË™+ $€ €‚H€ƒ‚‚ƒ‚‚ÿThe apostle Paul used this legal concept of adoption as an analogy to show the believer's relationship to God. Although similar ideas are found throughout the New Testament, the word adoption, used in a theological sense, is found only in the writings of Paul .In Ephesians, Paul's emphasis was that our adoption rests with God, who "predestined us to adoption as sons" . In his letter to the Romans, Paul used the term to describe Israel's place of honor in God's planÝÍ™Ç . However, Gentile believers have also been given the "Spirit of adoption," which allows them to cry, "Abba, Father" .MÝÍæ. *€?€‚H€ƒ‚‚‚‚‚‚‚‚ÿGod's adoption of the believer also has a future dimension, the assurance that the believer's body will be resurrected .(from Nelson's Illustrated Bible Dictionary)(Copyright (C) 1986, Thomas Nelson Publishers)Click on the 'back' button to return to where you were.8™1I ÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÝÿÿÿÿ/Topic34ñžæS t€=€€†F€ÀCyt*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+NEXT.WAV€ €‚‚‚ÿPREDESTINATION The biblical teaching that declares the sovereignty of God over man in such a way that the freedom of the human will is also preserved.Š_™+ $€¿€‚H€ƒ‚‚ƒ‚‚ÿTwo major concepts are involved in the biblical meaning of predestination. First, God, who is allpowerful in the universe, has foreknown and predestined the course of human history and the lives of individuals. If He were not in complete control of human events, He would not be sovereign and, thus, would not be God.Second, God's predestination of human events does not eliminate human choice. A thorough understanding of how God can maintain His sovereignty and still allow human freedom seems to be reserved for His infinite mind alone. Great minds have struggled with this problem for centuries.Æ›_+ $€7€‚H€ƒ‚‚ƒ‚‚ÿTwo views of predestination are prominent among church groups today. One view, known as Calvinism, holds that God offers irresistible grace to those whom he elects to save. The other view, known as Arminianism, insists that God's grace is the source of redemption but that it can be resisted by man through his free choice. In Calvinism, God chooses the believer; in Arminianism, the believer chooses God.Although the term predestination is not used in the Bible, the apostle Paul alludes to it in : "We have obtained an inheritance, being predestined according to the purpose of Him who works all things according to the counsel of His will."îÙM + $€‡€‚H€ƒ‚‚ƒ‚‚ÿAll Christians agree that creation is moving within the purpose of God. This purpose is to bring the world into complete conformity to His will . From the very beginning of time, God predestined to save humankind by sending His Son to accomplish salvation. Thus, "God would have all men to be saved and come to the knowledge of the truth" <1 Tim. 2:4>.The doctrine of predestination does not mean that God is unjust, deciding that some people will be saved and that others will be lost. Mankind, because of Adam's FALL in the Garden of Eden, sinned by free choice. Thus, no person deserves salvation. But God's grace is universal. His salvation is for "everyone who believes" .!ö_n + $€í€‚H€ƒ‚‚ƒ‚‚ÿPaul also declared that he was a debtor under obligation to take the message of the gospel to other people so they might hear and obey. Paul clearly meant that no one is saved apart from the will of God and no one is lost apart from the will of God. But the will of God functions within an order which God Himself has established.Predestination is a profound and mysterious biblical teaching. It focuses our thinking on man's freedom and responsibility as well as God's sovereignty.Á–M /+ $€-€‚H€‚‚‚‚‚‚ÿ(from Nelson's Illustrated Bible Dictionary)(Copyright (C) 1986, Thomas Nelson Publishers)Click the 'back' button to return to where you were.8n g1ÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÞÿÿÿÿgFTopic35Ê/@S t€•€€†F€ÀCiu*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+NEXT.WAV€ €‚‚‚ÿBLOOD The red fluid circulating in the body that takes nourishment to the body parts and carries away waste. The word blood is often used literally in Scripture. Sometimes the word refers to the blood of animals ; at other times it refers to human blood <1 Kin. 22:35>. The word is also used figuratively in g@/the Bible. It may mean "blood red" or "murder" . The phrase "flesh and blood" means humanity .ß·goC( €o€‚H€ƒ‚‚ÿBut the most important biblical concept in regard to blood is the spiritual significance of the blood of sacrificial animals. Although some scholars believe the blood primarily means the animal's life, most agree that blood refers to the animal's death. Most of the Old Testament passages that discuss sacrifices mention the death of the animal, not its life . The Bible makes it clear that the satisfaction or payment for human sins was made by the death of a specified animal substitute: "For the life of the flesh is in the blood, and I have given it to you upon the altar to make atonement for your souls; for it is the blood that makes atonement for the soul" .3 @¢E* "€€‚H€ƒ‚‚‚‚ÿIn the New Testament, this Old Testament idea of sacrifice is applied to Christ's blood. References to the "blood of Christ" always mean the sacrificial death of Jesus on the cross. References to the blood of Christ were made by Paul ; Peter <1 Pet. 1:19>; John and the author of Hebrews . Although all have sinned, "we have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of sins" .(from Nelson's Illustrated Bible Dictionary)(Copyright (C) 1986, Thomas Nelson Publishers)c;oCF( €v€‚H€‚‚‚‚ÿClick the 'back' button to go back to where you were.1¢E6F1Šÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿßÿÿÿÿ6FGYFGV z€€€†F€ÀCm;*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV‚‚‚‚‚‚‚‚€‚ÿ2128 eulogetos (yoo-log-ay-tos');from 2127; adorable: KJV-- blessed.2127 eulogeo (yoo-log-eh'-o);from a compound of 2095 and 3056; to speak well of, i.e. (religiously) to bless (thank or invoke a benediction upon, prosper): KJV-- bless, praise.16FÀG1ÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿàÿÿÿÿÀG€H䔏G€HP n€)€€†F€ÀCZ*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV‚‚€‚ÿ1586 eklegomai (ek-leg'-om-ahee);middle voice from 1537 and 3004 (in its primary sense); to select: KJV-- make choice, choose (out), chosen.1ÀGÕH1LÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿáÿÿÿÿÕHðIË€HðIP n€—€€†F€ÀCé_*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV‚‚€‚ÿ40 hagios (hag'-ee-os);from hagos (an awful thing) [compare 53, 2282]; sacred (physically, pure, morally blameless or religious, ceremonially, consecrated): KJV-- (most) holy (one, thing), saint.1ÕH!J16ÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿâÿÿÿÿ!J&KµðI&KP n€k€€†F€ÀC-b*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV‚‚€‚ÿ299 amomos (am'-o-mos);from 1 (as a negative particle) and 3470; unblemished (literally or figuratively): KJV-- without blame (blemish, fault, spot), faultless, unblameable.1!JWK1ÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿãÿÿÿÿWKELîž&KELP n€=€€†F€ÀCqd*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV‚‚€‚ÿ4309 proorizo (pro-or-id'-zo);from 4253 and 3724; to limit in advance, i.e. (figuratively) predetermine: KJV-- determine before, ordain, predestinate.1WKvL1hÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿäÿÿÿÿvL­M7çEL­MP n€Ï€€†F€ÀCÕz*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV‚‚€‚ÿ5206 huiothesia (hwee-oth-es-ee'-ah);from a presumed compound of 5207 and a derivative of 5087; the placing as a son, i.e. adoption (figuratively, Christian sonship in respect to God): KJV-- adoption (of children, of sons).1vLÞM1cÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿåÿÿÿÿÞMO2â­MOP n€Å€€†F€ÀCM}*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV‚‚€‚ÿ2107 eudokia (yoo-dok-ee'-ah);from a presumed compound of 2095 and the base of 1380; satisfaction, i.e. (subjectively) delight, or (objectively) kindness, wish, purpose: KJV-- desire, good pleasure (will), X seem good.1ÞMAO1ÀÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿæÿÿÿÿAOŒ€?ïOŒ€P n€ß€€†F€ÀC‘*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV‚‚€‚ÿ2307 thelema (thel'-ay-mah);from the prolonged form of 2309; a determination (properly, the thing), i.e. (aAOŒ€Octively) choice (specially, purpose, decree; abstractly, volition) or (passively) inclination: KJV-- desire, pleasure, will.1AOœ€1ÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿçÿÿÿÿœ€҂Œ€P n€€€†F€ÀCµf*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV‚‚€‚ÿ5487 charitoo (khar-ee-to'-o);from 5485; to grace, i.e. indue with special honor: KJV-- make accepted, be highly favoured.1œ€À1ZÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿèÿÿÿÿÀé‚)ӏé‚V z€§€€†F€ÀC±g*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV‚€‚‚‚‚€‚ÿ1254 bara' (baw-raw');a primitive root; (absolutely) to create; (qualified) to cut down (a wood), select, feed (as formative processes): -choose, create (creator), cut down, dispatch, do, make (fat).1Àƒ1Hÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿéÿÿÿÿƒ1„Çé‚1„P n€€€†F€ÀCùj*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV‚‚€‚ÿ6754 tselem (tseh'-lem);from an unused root meaning to shade; a phantom, i.e. (figuratively) illusion, resemblance; hence, a representative figure, especially an idol: KJV-- image, vain shew.1ƒb„1çÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿêÿÿÿÿb„†¶f1„†P n€Í€€†F€ÀCՁ*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV‚‚€‚ÿ1288 barak (baw-rak');a primitive root; to kneel; by implication to bless God (as an act of adoration), and (vice-versa) man (as a benefit); also (by euphemism) to curse (God or the king, as treason): KJV-- X abundantly, X altogether, X at all, blaspheme, bless, congratulate, curse, X greatly, X indeed, kneel (down), praise, salute, X still, thank.1b„I†1.ÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿëÿÿÿÿI†F‡ý­†F‡P n€[€€†F€ÀCu‡*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV‚‚€‚ÿ6509 parah (paw-raw');a primitive root; to bear fruit (literally or figuratively): KJV-- bear, bring forth (fruit), (be, cause to be, make) fruitful, grow, increase.1I†w‡1¶ÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿìÿÿÿÿw‡ü‰…5F‡ü‰P n€k€€†F€ÀC¹‰*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV‚‚€‚ÿ7235 rabah (raw-baw');a primitive root; to increase (in whatever respect): KJV-- [bring in] abundance (X -antly), + archer [by mistake for 7232], be in authority, bring up, X continue, enlarge, excel, exceeding (-ly), be full of, (be, make) great (-er, -ly, X -ness), grow up, heap, increase, be long, (be, give, have, make, use) many (a time), (any, be, give, give the, have) more (in number), (ask, be, be so, gather, over, take, yield) much (greater, more), (make to) multiply, nourish, plenty (-eous), X process [of time], sore, store, thoroughly, very.1w‡-Š1Nÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿíÿÿÿÿ-ŠJŒÍü‰JŒP n€›€€†F€ÀC‘*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV‚‚€‚ÿ4390 male' (maw-lay');or mala' (Esth. 7:5) (maw-law'); a primitive root, to fill or (intransitively) be full of, in a wide application (literally and figuratively): KJV-- accomplish, confirm, + consecrate, be at an end, be expired, be fenced, fill, fulfil, (be, become, X draw, give in, go) full (-ly, -ly set, tale), [over-] flow, fulness, furnish, gather (selves, together), presume, replenish, satisfy, set, space, take a [hand-] full, + have wholly.1-Š{Œ1Zÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿîÿÿÿÿ{Œ€)ÙJŒ€P n€³€€†F€ÀC՟*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV‚‚€‚ÿ3533 kabash (kaw-bash');a primitive root; to tread down; hence, negatively, to disregard; positively, to conquer, subjugate, violate: KJV-- bring into bondage, force, keep under, subdue, bring into subjection.1{ŒՍ1TÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿïÿÿÿÿՍøŽ#Ó€øŽP n€§€€†F€ÀC¢*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV‚‚€‚ÿ7287 radah (raw-daw');a primitive root; to tread down, i.e. subjugate; specifically, to crumble off: KJV-- (come to, make to) have dominion, prevail against, reign, (bear, make to) rule,- r, over), take.1Ս)1lÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿðÿÿÿÿ)VÀ!ËøŽVÀV z€—€€†F€ÀC]€*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV‚‚‚€‚‚€‚ÿ629 apolutrosis (ap-ol-oo'-tro-sis);from a compound of 575 and 3083; (the act) ransom in full, i.e. (figuratively) riddance, )VÀøŽor (specially) Christian salvation: KJV-- deliverance, redemption.1)‡À1cÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿñÿÿÿÿ‡À¹Á2âVÀ¹ÁP n€Å€€†F€ÀCõi*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV‚‚€‚ÿ129 haima (hah'-ee-mah);of uncertain derivation; blood, literally (of men or animals), figuratively (the juice of grapes) or specially (the atoning blood of Christ); by implication bloodshed, also kindred: KJV-- blood.1‡ÀêÁ1ýÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿòÿÿÿÿêÁ¶ÂÌ}¹Á¶ÂO n€ú€€†F€ÀC=m*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV‚‚€‚ÿ859 aphesis (af'-es-is);from 863; freedom; (figuratively) pardon: KJV-- deliverance, forgiveness, liberty, remission.1êÁçÂ16ÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿóÿÿÿÿçÂìõ¶ÂìÃP n€k€€†F€ÀCo*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV‚‚€‚ÿ3900 paraptoma (par-ap'-to-mah);from 3895; a side-slip (lapse or deviation), i.e. (unintentional) error or (wilful) transgression: KJV-- fall, fault, offence, sin, trespass.1çÂÄ1KÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿôÿÿÿÿÄ7ÅÊìÃ7ÅP n€•€€†F€ÀC¡Š*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV‚‚€‚ÿ4149 ploutos (ploo'-tos);from the base of 4130; wealth (as fulness), i.e. (literally) money, possessions, or (figuratively) abundance, richness, (specifically) valuable bestowment: KJV-- riches.1ÄhÅ1çÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿõÿÿÿÿhÅǶb7ÅÇT v€Å€€†F€ÀC©*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV‚‚€‚€‚ÿ5485 charis (khar'-ece);from 5463; graciousness (as gratifying), of manner or act (abstract or concrete; literal, figurative or spiritual; especially the divine influence upon the heart, and its reflection in the life; including gratitude): KJV-- acceptable, benefit, favour, gift, grace (-ious), joy, liberality, pleasure, thank (-s, -worthy).1hÅOÇ1ãÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿöÿÿÿÿOÇɲbÇÉP n€Å€€†F€ÀC]«*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV‚‚€‚ÿ4052 perisseuo (per-is-syoo'-o);from 4053; to superabound (in quantity or quality), be in excess, be superfluous; also (transitively) to cause to superabound or excel: KJV-- (make, more) abound, (have, have more) abundance (be more) abundant, be the better, enough and to spare, exceed, excel, increase, be left, redound, remain (over and above).1OÇ2É1éÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿ÷ÿÿÿÿ2ÉêÉžiÉêÉO n€Ò€€†F€ÀC¡­*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV‚‚€‚ÿ4678 sophia (sof-ee'-ah);from 4680; wisdom (higher or lower, worldly or spiritual): KJV-- wisdom.12ÉÊ1ÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿøÿÿÿÿÊòÊׇêÉòÊP n€€€†F€ÀCå¯*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV‚‚€‚ÿ5428 phronesis (fron'-ay-sis);from 5426; mental action or activity, i.e. intellectual or moral insight: KJV-- prudence, wisdom.1Ê#Ë1Cÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿùÿÿÿÿ#Ë5ÌŸòÊ5ÌT v€}€€†F€ÀC)²*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV‚‚€‚€‚ÿ4388 protithemai (prot-ith'-em-ahee);middle voice from 4253 and 5087; to place before, i.e. (for oneself) to exhibit; (to oneself) to propose (determine): KJV-- purpose, set forth.1#ËfÌ1(ÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿúÿÿÿÿfÌ]Í÷§5Ì]ÍP n€O€€†F€ÀCmŽ*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV‚‚€‚ÿ3622 oikonomia (oy-kon-om-ee'-ah);from 3623; administration (of a household or estate); specifically, a (religious) "economy": KJV-- dispensation, stewardship.1fÌŽÍ1²ÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿûÿÿÿÿŽÍρ1]ÍÏP n€c€€†F€ÀC±¶*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV‚‚€‚ÿ4138 pleroma (play'-ro-mah);from 4137; repletion or completion, i.e. (subjectively) what fills (as contents, supplement, copiousness, multitude), or (objectively) what is filled (as container, performance, period): KJV-- which is put in to fill up, piece that filled up, fulfilling, full, fulness.1ŽÍ@Ï1kÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿüÿÿÿÿ@ÏaÅÏaP n€‹€€†F€ÀCõž*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV‚‚€‚ÿ2540 kairos (kahee-ros');of uncertain affinity; an occasion, i.e. set or proper time: KJV-- X always, oppor@ÏaÏtunity, (convenient, due) season, (due, short, while) time, a while. Compare 5550.1@Ï’1!ÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿýÿÿÿÿ’‚ð a‚P n€A€€†F€ÀCÅq*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV‚‚€‚ÿ346 anakephalaiomai (an-ak-ef-al-ah'-ee-om-ahee);from 303 and 2775 (in its original sense); to sum up: KJV-- briefly comprehend, gather together in one.1’³1*ÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿþÿÿÿÿ³¬ù¥‚¬T v€K€€†F€ÀCÁr*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV‚‚‚‚‚‚€‚ÿ2820 kleroo (klay-ro'-o);from 2819; to allot, i.e. (figuratively) to assign (a privilege): KJV-- obtain an inheritance.2819 kleros (klay'-ros);probably from 2806 (through the idea of using bits of wood, etc., for the purpose); a die (for drawing chances); by implication a portion (as if so secured); by extension an acquisition (especially a patrimony, figuratively); KJV-- heritage, inheritance, lot, part.1³Ý1NÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÝúͬúP n€›€€†F€ÀCu*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV‚‚€‚ÿ4286 prothesis (proth'-es-is);from 4388; a setting forth, i.e. (figuratively) proposal (intention); specifically, the show-bread (in the Temple) as exposed before God: KJV-- purpose, shew [-bread].1Ý+1ÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿ+ ߊú U x€€€†F€ÀCÁw*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV‚‚€‚‚€‚ÿ4161 poiema (poy'-ay-mah);from 4160; a product, i.e. fabric (literally or figuratively): KJV-- thing that is made, workmanship.1+;1>ÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿ;H ¹ HT v€s€€†F€ÀC9»*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV‚‚€‚€‚ÿ2936 ktizo (ktid'-zo);probably akin to 2932 (through the idea of proprietor-ship of the manufacturer); to fabricate, i.e. found (form originally): KJV-- create, Creator, make.1;y1ÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿyWފHWT v€€€†F€ÀC±œ*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV‚‚€‚€‚ÿ2932 ktaomai (ktah'-om-ahee);a primary verb; to get, i.e. acquire (by any means; own): KJV-- obtain, possess, provide, purchase.1yˆ1ÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿˆt ì˜Wt T v€1€€†F€ÀCõ¿*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV‚‚€‚€‚ÿ4282 proetoimazo (pro-et-oy-mad'-zo);from 4253 and 2090; to fit up in advance (literally or figuratively): KJV-- ordain before, prepare afore.1ˆ¥ 1|ÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿ¥ ð Kût ð P n€÷€€†F€ÀC9Â*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV‚‚€‚ÿ4043 peripateo (per-ee-pat-eh'-o);from 4012 and 3961; to tread all around, i.e. walk at large (especially as proof of ability); figuratively, to live, deport oneself, follow (as a companion or votary): KJV-- go, be occupied with, walk (about).1¥ ! 1jÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿ! Z 9åð Z T v€Ë€€†F€ÀC}Ä*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV‚‚€‚€‚ÿ4972 sphragizo (sfrag-id'-zo);from 4973; to stamp (with a signet or private mark) for security or preservation (literally or figuratively); by implication, to keep secret, to attest: KJV-- (set a, set to) seal up, stop.1! ‹ 1-ÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿ‹ ‡ ü¬Z ‡ P n€Y€€†F€ÀCÁÆ*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV‚‚€‚ÿ728 arrhabon (ar-hrab-ohn');of Hebrew origin [6162]; a pledge, i.e. part of the purchase-money or property given in advance as security for the rest: KJV-- earnest.1‹ ž 1ÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿž ›㓇 ›P n€'€€†F€ÀCÉ*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV‚‚€‚ÿ2817 kleronomia (klay-ron-om-ee'-ah);from 2818; heirship, i.e. (concretely) a patrimony or (genitive case) a possession: KJV-- inheritance.1ž Ì1ÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÌr@šC›r@W |€‡€€†F€ÀCIË*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV‚‚‚‚‚€‚€‚ÿ4047 peripoiesis (per-ee-poy'-ay-sis);from 4046; acquisition (the act or the thing); by extension, preservation: KJV-- obtain (-ing), peculiar, purchased, possession, saving.4046 peripoieomai (per-ee-poy-eh'-om-aheÌr@›e);middle voice from 4012 and 4160; to make around oneself, i.e. acquire (buy): KJV-- purchase.1Ì£@1€ÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿ ÿÿÿÿ£@òAOúr@òAU x€õ€€†F€ÀCm;*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV‚‚‚€‚€‚ÿ3958 pascho (pas'-kho);including the forms (patho (path'-o) and pentho (pen'-tho)), used only in certain tenses for it; apparently a primary verb; to experience a sensation or impression (usually painful): KJV-- feel, passion, suffer, vex.1£@#B1Yÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿ ÿÿÿÿ#BKE|0òAŸDL f€a€€†F€ÀCi<*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV‚‚ÿ2309 thelo (thel'-o);or ethelo (eth-el'-o); in certain tenses theleo (thel-eh'-o); and etheleo (eth-el-eh'-o); which are otherwise obsolete; apparently strengthened from the alternate form of 138; to determine (as an active option from subjective impulse; whereas 1014 properly denotes rather a passive acquiescence in objective considerations), i.e. choose or prefer (literally or figuratively); by implication, to wish, i.e. be inclined to (sometimes adverbially, gladly); impersonally for the future tense, to be about to; by Hebraism, to delight in: ¬€#BKE, &€€€€‚‚€‚ÿKJV-- desire, be disposed (forward), intend, list, love, mean, please, have rather, (be) will (have, -ling, -ling [-ly]).1ŸD|E1ÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿ ÿÿÿÿ|EeFé”KEeFU x€)€€†F€ÀCZ*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV‚‚€‚‚€‚ÿ4832 summorphos (soom-mor-fos');from 4862 and 3444; jointly formed, i.e. (figuratively) similar: KJV-- conformed to, fashioned like unto.1|E–F1ÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿ ÿÿÿÿ–FsGݍeFsGP n€€€†F€ÀCé_*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV‚‚€‚ÿ1344 dikaioo (dik-ah-yo'-o);from 1342; to render (i.e. show or regard as) just or innocent: KJV-- free, justify (-ier), be righteous.1–F€G1)ÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿ ÿÿÿÿ€GœHøšsGœHP n€Q€€†F€ÀC-b*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV‚‚€‚ÿ1392 doxazo (dox-ad'-zo);from 1391; to render (or esteem) glorious (in a wide application): KJV-- (make) glorify (-ious), full of (have) glory, honour, magnify.1€GÍH1}ÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÍHJLøœHJT v€ñ€€†F€ÀCqd*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV‚‚‚‚‚‚€‚ÿ602 apokalupsis (ap-ok-al'-oop-sis);from 601; disclosure: KJV-- appearing, coming, lighten, manifestation, be revealed, revelation.601 apokalupto (ap-ok-al-oop'-to);from 575 and 2572; to take off the cover, i.e. disclose: KJV-- reveal.1ÍHJJ1YÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿJJrL±JLLQ p€c€€†F€ÀCz*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV‚‚€‚‚ÿ5647 `abad (aw-bad');a primitive root; to work (in any sense); by implication, to serve, till, (causatively) enslave, etc.: KJV-- X be, keep in bondage, be bondmen, bond-service, compel, do, dress, ear, execute, + husbandman, keep, labour (-ing man, bring to pass, (cause to, make to) serve (-ingself,), (be, become) servant (-s), do (use) service, till (-er), transgress [from margin], (set a) work, be wrought, worshipper,&JJrL# €€€‚ÿ1LL£L1Åÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿ£L7N”DrL7NP n€‰€€†F€ÀCI|*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV‚‚€‚ÿ8104 shamar (shaw-mar');a primitive root; properly, to hedge about (as with thorns), i.e. guard; generally, to protect, attend to, etc.: KJV-- beward, be circumspect, take heed (toself), keep (-erself,), mark, look narrowly, observe, preserve, regard, reserve, save (self), sure, (that lay) wait (for), watch (-man).1£LhN1]ÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿhN”O,Ü7N”OP n€¹€€†F€ÀCÍ*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV‚‚€‚ÿ6680 tsavah (tsaw-vaw');a primitive root; (intensively) to constitute, enjoin: KJV-- appoint, (for-) bid, (give a) charge, (give a, give in, send with) command (-er, -ment), send a messenger, put, (set) in order.1hNÅO1 ÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÅOt£O”OtT v€Ÿ€€†F€ÀCÐ*33792,2,BIGPICÅOt”O.HLP+OPEN.WAV‚‚€‚€‚ÿ905 bad (bad);from 909; properly, separation; by implication, a part of the body, branch of a tree, bar for carrying; figuratively, chief of a city; especially (with prepositional prefix) as an adverb, apart, only, besides: KJV-- alone, apart, bar, besides, branch, byself, of each alike, except, only, part, staff, strength.1ÅO¥1ÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿ¥‘‚ì™t‘‚S t€3€€†F€ÀCµf*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV‚‚‚‚‚€‚ÿ5828 `ezer (ay'-zer);from 5826; aid: KJV-- help.5826 `azar (aw-zar');a primitive root; to surround, i.e. protect or aid: KJV-- help, succour.1¥‚1 ÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿ‚1„o‘‚1„P n€?€€†F€ÀC±g*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV‚‚€‚ÿ5048 neged (neh'-ghed);from 5046; a front, i.e. part opposite; specifically a counterpart, or mate; usually (adverbial, especially with preposition) over against or before: KJV-- about, (over) against, X aloof, X far (off), X from, over, presence, X other side, sight, X to view.1‚b„1ÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿb„H†æ’1„H†T v€%€€†F€ÀCñj*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV‚‚€‚€‚ÿ5056 telos (tel'-os);from a primary tello (to set out for a definite point or goal); properly, the point aimed at as a limit, i.e. (by implication) the conclusion of an act or state (termination [literally, figuratively or indefinitely], result [immediate, ultimate or prophetic], purpose); specifically, an impost or levy (as paid): KJV-- + continual, custom, end (-ing), finally, uttermost.1b„y†1%ÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿy†mˆô H†mˆT v€A€€†F€ÀCÁ~*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV‚‚‚‚‚‚€‚ÿ3142 marturion (mar-too'-ree-on);neuter of a presumed derivative of 3144; something evidential, i.e. (genitive case) evidence given or (specifically) the Decalogue (in the sacred Tabernacle): KJV-- to be testified, testimony, witness.3144 martus (mar'-toos);of uncertain affinity; a witness (literally [judicially] or figuratively [genitive case]); by analogy, a "martyr": KJV-- martyr, record, witness.1y†žˆ1ÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿžˆl‹z.mˆ‹L f€]€€†F€ÀC*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV‚‚ÿ3700 optanomai (op-tan'-om-ahee);a (middle voice) prolonged form of the primary (middle voice) optomai (op'-tom-ahee); which is used for it in certain tenses; and both as alternate of 3708; to gaze (i.e. with wide-open eyes, as at something remarkable; and thus differing from 991, which denotes simply voluntary observation; and from 1492, which expresses merely mechanical, passive or casual vision; while 2300, and still more emphatically its intensive 2334, signifies an earnest but more continued inspection; and 4648 a watching from a distance): T)žˆl‹+ &€R€€€‚‚€‚ÿKJV-- appear, look, see, shewself.8‹€‹1±ÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿ€‹bÂTopic36¹^l‹][ „€œ€€†F€ÀC¹ƒ*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+NEXT.WAV€ €‚‚€€‚‚‚ÿ"The Voice Of The Nature Of GOD""I heard the voice of the LORD saying, Whom shall I send?" Isaiah 6:8When we speak of the call of GOD, we are apt to forget the most important feature, viz., the nature of the One Who calls. There is the call of the sea, the call of the mountains, the call of the great ice barriers, but these calls are only heard by the few. The call is the expression of the nature from which it comes, and we can only record the call if the same nature is in us. The call of GOD is the expression of GOD's nature, not of our nature. There are strands of the call of GOD providentially at work for us which we recognize and no one else does. It is the threading of GOD's voice to us in some particular matter, and it is no use consulting anyone else about it. We have to keep that profound relationship between our soul and GOD.šq€‹Â) €ã€€‚‚‚‚‚‚ÿThe call of GOD is not the echo of my nature; my affinities and personaltemperament are not considered. As long as I c]Âl‹onsider my personal temperament and think about what I am fitted for, I shall never hear the call of GOD. But when I am brought into relationship with GOD, I am in the condition thatIsaiah was in. Isaiah's soul was so attuned to GOD by the tremendous crisishe had gone through that he recorded the call of GOD to his amazed soul. The majority of us have no ear for anything but ourselves, we cannot hear a thing GOD says. To be brought into the zone of the call of GOD is to be profoundly altered._8]bÂ' €p€€‚€‚ÿClick the back button to go back to where you were.8šÂ1&ÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿšÂˆÆTopic37,ºbÂÆÄr ²€u€€†F€ÀC¥m*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+NEXT.WAV€ €‚‚€‚‚€‚€€â9n4õ‰‚‚‚‚‚‚‚‚‚‚‚ÿASSIGNMENT: Use the following outline to prepare a 30 minute sermon. Think of illustrations and cross-references as are relevant.Text: Luke 11:1-13Theme: Lord teach us to pray.I.. THE HOLY APPROACH ( vv1-2)Note how we should begin praying:A. Acknowledge His person (our Father).B. Acknowledge His position ( in heaven).C. Acknowledge His praise (Hallowed be thy name).D. Acknowledge His purpose (Thy will be done).ÂišÂˆÆY €€Ó€€‚€â:n4õ‰‚‚‚‚‚‚‚‚‚‚€€‚‚‚‚â;n4õ‰‚‚âÃÌ’Ï& €0€€€‚ÿLuke 11:11-13 (NKJV)1TÏÃÏ1 ÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÃÏs€O’ÏsU x€Ÿ€€†F€ÀC  *33792,2,BIGPIC.HÃÏs’ÏLP+OPEN.WAV‚‚‚‚‚‚‚€‚ÿ1747 duwmiyah (doo-me-yaw');from 1820; stillness; adverbially, silently; abstractly quiet, trust: KJV-- silence, silent, waiteth.1820 damah (daw-mam');a primitive root; to be dumb or silent; hence, to fail or perish; trans. to destroy: KJV-- cease, be cut down (off), destroy, be brought to silence, be undone, X utterly.1ÃÏ€1Žÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿ€] sP n€€€†F€ÀCœq*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV‚‚€‚ÿ1826 damam (daw-man');a prim root [compare 1724, 1820]; to be dumb; by implication, to be astonished, to stop; also to perish: KJV-- cease, be cut down (off), forbear, hold peace, quietself, rest, be silent, keep (put to) silence, be (stand) still, tarry, wait.1€21+ÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿ ÿÿÿÿ2,úª,P n€U€€†F€ÀCñs*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV‚‚€‚ÿ2442 chakah (khaw-kaw');a primitive root [apparently akin to 2707 through the idea of piercing]; properly, to adhere to; hence, to await: KJV-- long, tarry, wait.12]1Gÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿ!ÿÿÿÿ]sÆ,sP n€€€†F€ÀC5v*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV‚‚€‚ÿ6960 qavah (kaw-vaw');a primitive root; to bind together (perhaps by twisting), i.e. collect; (figuratively) to expect: KJV-- gather (together), look, patiently, tarry, wait (for, on, upon).1]€1»ÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿ"ÿÿÿÿ€.Š4s.V z€i€€†F€ÀC™Œ*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV‚‚‚‚‚‚‚‚€‚ÿ1018 brabeuo (brab-yoo'-o);from the same as 1017; to arbitrate, i.e. (genitive case) to govern (figuratively, prevail): KJV-- rule.1017 brabeion (brab-i'-on);from brabeus (an umpire of uncertain derivation); an award (of arbitration), i.e. (specially) a prize in the public games: KJV-- prize.1€_1ëÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿ#ÿÿÿÿ_ ºh. R r€Ñ€€†F€ÀCݎ*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV‚‚‚‚€‚ÿ"And though the Lord gives you the bread of adversity and the water of affliction, yet your teachers will not be moved into a corner anymore, but your eyes shall see your teachers.Your ears shall hear a word behind you, saying, "This is the way, walk in it," whenever you turn to the right hand or whenever you turn to the left."Isaiah 30:20-21 (NKJV)1_J 1Ìÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿ$ÿÿÿÿJ å ›H å S t€‘€€†F€ÀC!‘*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV‚‚‚‚‚€‚ÿ"I said to a man who stood at the gate of the year: 'Give me a light that Imay tread safely into the unknown'; and he replied, 'Go into the darknessand put your hand into the hand of God. That shall be to you better thana light and safer than a known way!'"- From a Christmas Message delivered by King George VI 1939 8J  1²ÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿ%ÿÿÿÿ ŸATopic38³Wå Ð \ †€¯€€†F€ÀCñ¢*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+NEXT.WAV€ €‚‚€€‚‚‚‚ÿ"The Vocation Of The Natural Life""But when it pleased GOD. . . to reveal His Son in me. . ." Gal.1:15-16The call of GOD is not a call to any particular service; my interpretationof it may be because contact with the nature of GOD has made me realize what I would like to do for Him. The call of GOD is essentially expressive of His nature; service is the outcome of what is fitted to my nature. The vocation of the natural life is stated by the apostle Paul - "When it pleased GOD to reveal His Son in me that I might preach Him" (i.e., sacramentally express) "among the Gentiles."E !@+ $€5€€‚‚‚‚‚‚‚‚ÿ Service is the outcome of super abounding devotion; but, profoundlyspeaking, there is no call to that, it is my own actual bit and is the echo ofmy identification with the nature of GOD. Service is the natural part of mylife. GOD gets me into a relationship with Himself whereby I understand Hiscall, then I do things out of sheer love for Him on my own account. To serve GOD is the deliberate love-gift of a nature that has heard the call of GOD. Service is expressive of that which is fitted to my natÐ !@å ure: GOD's call is~VÐ ŸA( €­€€‚‚‚‚‚ÿexpressive of His nature; consequently when I receive His nature and hear His call, the voice of the Divine nature sounds in both and the two work together. The Son of GOD reveals Himself in me, and I serve Him in the ordinary ways of life out of devotion to Him.- Oswald ChambersClick on the 'back' button to return to where you were.1!@ÐA1àÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿ&ÿÿÿÿÐADÀŸAéCY €€€€†F€ÀCm;*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV€€‚‚‚‚‚‚‚‚‚ÿ I ASKED FOR. . . .I asked for strength and God gave me difficulties to make me strongI asked for wisdom and God gave me problems to solveI asked for prosperity and God gave me brawn and brain to workI asked for courage and God gave me dangers to overcomeI asked for patience God placed me in situations where I was forced to waitI asked for love and God gave me troubled people to helpI asked for favors and God gave me opportunities–mÐAD) "€Ú€€‚‚‚€‚ÿI received nothing I wanted I received everything I neededMY PRAYER HAS BEEN ANSWERED.- Author Unknown8éC·D1‚ÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿ'ÿÿÿÿ·DITopic398ÞDïFZ ‚€œ€€†F€ÀCÙ<*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+NEXT.WAV€ €‚‚‚‚‚‚‚‚‚‚ÿI Asked GodI asked God to take away my pride, and God said no. He said it was not for him to take away, but for me to give up.I asked God to make my handicapped child whole, and God said, "No, her spirit is already whole. Her body is only temporary."I asked God to grant me patience, and God said no. He said that patience isthe byproduct of tribulation. It isn't granted; it's earned. I asked God to give me happiness; God said no. He said he gives blessings;ã·DI/ ,€Ç€€‚‚‚‚‚‚‚‚‚‚‚‚ÿhappiness is up to me.I asked God to spare me pain, and God said no. He said I must grow on my own, but he will prune me in order to make me fruitful.I asked God if he loved me, and God said yes. He gave me his only Son who died for me, and I will be in heaven some day because I believe.I asked God to help me love others as much as he loves me, and God said,"Ahhh, finally! Now you have the idea." - Vic PentzClick on the 'back' button to return to where you were.1ïF2I1sÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿ(ÿÿÿÿ2ItK³I8KS t€g€€†F€ÀCÉ=*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV‚‚‚‚‚‚‚‚‚ÿ"The flowers smell sweetest after a shower; vines bear the better for bleeding; the walnut-tree is most fruitful when most beaten; saints spring and thrive most internally, when they are most externally afflicted. Afflictions are the mother of virtue. Manasseh's chain was more profitable to him than his crown. All of the stones that came about Stephen's ears did but knock him closer to Christ, the corner-stone." <2ItK' €*€€‚€‚ÿ- THOMAS BROOKS 88K¬K1Ñ ÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿ)ÿÿÿÿ¬K}ƒTopic40 ÄtKÌM\ †€‰€€†F€ÀCñZ*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+NEXT.WAV€ €‚‚‚‚‚‚‚‚‚‚‚‚ÿ"Self-Sufficiency Slain"It is a remarkable fact that all the heresies which have arisenin the Christian Church have had a decided tendency to notlisten to God and to flatter man'.They have always had for their covert, if not for their open aim,the exaltation of human nature, and the casting down ofthe sovereignty of divine grace.Robbing God of the glory which is due unto His name,these false prophets would shed a counterfeit lustre$ö¬K €. *€í€€‚‚‚‚‚‚‚‚‚‚‚ÿupon the head of the rebellious and depraved creature.On the other hand, the doctrines of the gospel, commonly knownas the doctrines of grace, are distinguished for this peculiarityabove every other, namely, that they sink the creature very low,and present the Lord Jehovah before us as sitting upon a throne,high and lifted up.So true is this, that the most uneducated Christian may,even if he is incapable of refuting an erroneous discourse,always be able to discover its untruthfulness,ÌM €tK$öÌM0‚. *€í€€‚‚‚‚‚‚‚‚‚‚‚ÿif it glorifies man at the expense of God.The merest babe in grace may carry this test with him:in the midst of the diversities of opinion with which he is surrounded,he may always judge, and judge infallibly too, of the truth orfalsehood of a doctrine by testing it thus-Does it glorify God? If it is so, it is true.Does it exalt man? Then it must be false.Does it lay man very low, and speak of him in terms which tend tomake him feel his degradation? Then doubtless it is full of truth.M! €}ƒ, &€C€€‚‚‚‚‚‚‚‚‚ÿAnd does it put the crown upon the head of God, and not uponthe head of man's free-will, or free-agency, or good works?Then assuredly it is a doctrine according to godliness,for it is the very truth of the Lord our God.-AnonymousClick on the back button to go to where you were.10‚®ƒ1ÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿ*ÿÿÿÿ®ƒ}„Ï}ƒ}„P p€þ€€†F€ÀCá[*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV‚‚‚€‚ÿ"You can do more than pray after you have prayed, but you cannot do more than pray until you have prayed."- A.J. Gordon1®ƒ®„1"ÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿ+ÿÿÿÿ®„Ÿ†ñœ}„Ÿ†U x€9€€†F€ÀCé_*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV‚‚‚‚‚‚‚€‚ÿ"The voice of the Father will be heard as He sets before us a widely opened door and receives us into blessed fellowship with himself. When we pray for the Spirit's help, it will no longer be in the fear that prayer is too great an effort for us. Instead, we will simply fall down at the Lords' feet in our weakness. There we will find the victory and power that comes from His love." - A. Murray1®„І1•ÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿ,ÿÿÿÿІ4ˆdŸ†4ˆP n€)€€†F€ÀCýb*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV‚‚‚‚‚‚ÿ"We realize that we are energized by the Holy Spirit for prayer, we know what it is to pray in the atmosphere and the presence of the Holy Spirit; but we do not so often realize that the Holy Spirit himself prays in us with prayers that we cannot utter."- O. Chambers1Іeˆ1Ùÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿ-ÿÿÿÿeˆ ‰šY4ˆ ‰O n€²€€†F€ÀCAe*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV‚‚€‚ÿ"Know how to listen, and you will profit even from those who talk badly"- Plutarch1eˆ>‰1nÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿ.ÿÿÿÿ>‰{‹² ‰@‹P n€e€€†F€ÀC…g*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV‚‚‚‚‚‚ÿ"Remember that it is not hasty reading, but serious meditation on holy and heavenly truths, that makes them prove sweet and profitable to the soul. It is not the mere touching of the flower by the bee that gathers honey, but her abiding for a time on the flower that draws out the sweet. It is not he that reads most, but he that meditates most, that will prove to be the choicest, sweetest, wisest, and strongest Christian.";>‰{‹' €(€€‚€‚ÿ- Thomas Brooks1@‹¬‹1îÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿ/ÿÿÿÿ¬‹iŒœn{‹iŒO n€Ü€€†F€ÀCÉi*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV‚‚€‚ÿ"When you come to the end of your self you come to the beginning of God" - Greg Laurie: Promise keepers1¬‹šŒ1ÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿ0ÿÿÿÿšŒùŽ$ÓiŒŸŽQ p€§€€†F€ÀCyx*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV‚‚‚‚‚‚‚ÿ"If we are serious about being spiritual revolutionaries, we must determine to learn how to pray! There are many excellent books on the subject, but there is no substitute for getting on our knees and starting to pray. Samuel Chadwick said, 'The one concern of the devil is to keep the saints from prayer. He fears nothing from prayerless studies, prayerless work, prayerless religion. He laughs at our toil, mocks at our wisdom, but trembles when we pray.";šŒùŽ' €(€€‚€‚ÿ- George Verwer1ŸŽ*1Qÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿ1ÿÿÿÿ*0Â<ëùŽrÁQ p€×€€†F€ÀCœz*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV‚‚‚‚‚‚‚ÿ"The vigor of our Spiritual Life will be in exact proportion to the place held by the Bible in our life and thoughts. I solemnly *rÁùŽstate this from the experience of fifty-four years. The first three years after conversion I neglected the Word of God. Since I began to search it diligently the blessing has been wonderful. I have read the Bible through one hundred times, and always with increasing delight. Each time it seems like a new book to me. Great has been the blessing Ÿ”*0Â* "€)€€‚‚‚€‚ÿfrom consecutive, diligent, daily study. I look upon it as a lost day when I have not had a good time over the Word of God. "- George Muller1rÁaÂ1ÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿ2ÿÿÿÿaÂCÄâ0ÂCÄU x€€€†F€ÀCAl*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV‚‚‚‚‚‚‚€‚ÿ"I prayed for Faith, and thought that some day Faith would come down and strike me like lightning. But Faith did not seem to come. One day I read in the tenth chapter of Romans, 'Now Faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the Word of God'. I had closed my Bible, and prayed for Faith. I now opened my Bible, and began to study, and Faith has been growing ever since. "- D.L. Moody1aÂtÄ1Kÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿ3ÿÿÿÿtÄŽÅÈCÄŽÅR r€‘€€†F€ÀC…n*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV‚‚‚‚€‚ÿA man prayed, and at first he thought that prayer was talking. But he became more and more quiet, until in the end he realized that prayer is listening.SOREN AABYE KIERKEGAARD (1813 - 1855)8tÄÆÅ1ÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿ4ÿÿÿÿÆÅ©ÍTopic41pŽÅ6ÈU x€7€€†F€ÀC¥}*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+NEXT.WAV€ €‚‚‚‚‚ÿ"The King's Garden - Nehemiah 3:15"The mention of the king's garden by Nehemiah brings to mind the paradise which the King of kings prepared for Adam. Sin ruined that fair abode of all delights. The children of men were driven out to till the ground which yielded only thorns and briers. Remember the fall of Adam, for it was your fall, too.Weep because the Lord of love was so shamefully treated by the head of the human race. Behold how dragons and demons dwell on this fair earth which once was a garden of delights. 'ýÆÅ]Ê* "€û€€‚‚‚‚‚‚‚ÿThere is another garden which the King waters with His bloody sweat - Gethsemane. The bitter herbs of this garden are far sweeter to renewed souls than even Eden's luscious fruits. At Gethsemane, the mischief of the serpent in the first garden was undone. The curse was lifted from earth and borne by the woman's promised seed. Meditate upon the agony and the passion of our Lord. Return to the garden of the olive press, and see the great Redeemer rescuing the world from its lost state. This &ÿ6ȃÌ' €ÿ€€‚‚‚‚ÿis the garden of gardens where the soul may see the guilt of sin and the power of love. My heart should also be His garden. How do the flowers flourish? Do any choice fruits appear? Does the King walk within and rest in the shelter of my spirit? Let me make certain that the plants are trimmed and watered and the mischievous foxes hunted out. Come Lord, and let the heavenly wind blow at Your coming. Let the spices of Your garden flow abroad. I must not forget the King's garden of the Church. &ú]Ê©Í, &€õ€€‚‚‚‚‚‚‚‚‚ÿO Lord, send prosperity to it. Rebuild her walls, nourish her plants, and ripen her fruits. Reclaim the barren waste from the wilderness and make it into "a King's garden."- UnknownClick on the 'back' button to return to where your were.8ƒÌáÍ1C ÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿ5ÿÿÿÿáÍTopic42 É©Í W |€“€€†F€ÀC­*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+NEXT.WAV€ €‚‚‚‚‚‚‚ÿ"GOD'S EMBROIDERY"When I was a little boy, my mother used to embroider a great deal. I would sit at her knee and look up from the floor and ask what she was doing. She informed me that she was embroidering. I told her that it looked like a mess from where I was. As from the underside I watched her work within the boundaries of the little round hoop that she held in her hand, I complained to her that it sure looked messy from where I sat.áÍ ©Í)þáÍ6+ $€ý€€‚‚‚‚‚‚‚‚ÿShe would smile at me, look down and gently say, "My son, you go about your playing for a while, and when I am finished with my embroidering, I will put you on my knee and let you see it from my side."I would wonder why she was using some dark threads along with the bright ones and why they seemed so jumbled from my view. A few minutes would pass and then I would hear Mother's voice say, "Son, come and sit on my knee." This I did only to be surprised and thrilled to see a beautiful flower or î Q- (€Ý€€‚‚‚‚‚‚‚‚‚‚ÿa sunset. I could not believe it, because from underneath it looked so messy.Then Mother would say to me, "My son, from underneath it did look messy and jumbled, but you did not realize that there was a pre-drawn plan on the top. It was a design. I was only following it. Now look at it from my side and you will see what I was doing."Many times through the years I have looked up to my Heavenly Father and said, "Father, what are You doing?" He has answered, "I am embroidering œ‘6, &€#€€‚‚‚‚‚‚‚‚‚ÿyour life." I say, "But it looks like a mess to me. It seems so jumbled. The threads seem so dark. Why can't they all be bright?"The Father seems to tell me, "'My child, you go about your business of doing My business, and one day I will bring you to Heaven and put you on My knee and you will see the plan from My side." -UnknownClick on the 'back' button to return to where you were.1Q?1[ÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿ6ÿÿÿÿ?i µP\ †€k€€†F€ÀCÉp*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV€€‚‚‚‚‚‚‚‚‚‚‚‚ÿ"LOVE IS CENTRAL"The fruit of the Spirit begins with love. There are nine graces spoken of,and of these nine Paul puts love at the head of the list; love is the firstthing, the first in that precious cluster of fruit. Someone has said thatall the other eight can be put in terms of love.Joy is love exulting.Peace is love in repose.Longsuffering is love on trial.Gentleness is love in society.Goodness is love in action.ì?i - (€Ù€€‚‚‚‚‚‚€‚ÿFaith is love on the battlefield.Meekness is love at school.Temperance is love in training.If we only just brought forth the fruit of the Spirit, what a world we would have! Men would have no desire to do evil.-Dwight L. Moody8P¡ 1§ÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿ7ÿÿÿÿ¡ BTopic434Üi Õ X ~€¹€€†F€ÀC±s*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+NEXT.WAV€ €‚‚‚‚‚‚‚‚ÿ"The Secret of the Lord""The secret of the Lord is with those who fear Him . . ." (Psalm 25:14). - What is the sign of a friend? Is it that he tells you his secret sorrows? No, it is that he tells you his secret joys. Many people will confide their secret sorrows to you, but the final mark of intimacy is when they share their secret joys with you. Have we ever let God tell us any of His joys? Or are we continually telling God our secrets, leaving Him no time A¡ & €7€€‚‚‚ÿto talk to us? At the beginning of our Christian life we are full of requests to God. But then we find that God wants to get us into an intimate relationship with Himself-to get us in touch with His purposes. Are we so intimately united to Jesus Christ's idea of prayer-"Your will be done" (Matthew 6:10) -- that we catch the secrets of God? What makes God so dear to us is not so much His big blessings to us, but the tiny things, because they show His amazing intimacy with us-He knows every detail of each of our individual lives..Õ P@- (€€€‚‚‚‚‚‚‚‚‚‚ÿ"Him shall He teach in the way He chooses" (Psalm 25:12). At first, we want the awareness of being guided by God. But then as we grow spiritually, we live so fully aware of God that we do not even need to ask what His will is, because the thought of choosing another way will never occur to us. If we are saved and sanctified, God guides us by our everyday choices. And if we are about to choose what He does not want, He will give us P@i a sense of doubt or restraint, which we must heed. Whenever there ÈœB, &€9€€‚‚‚‚‚‚‚‚‚ÿis doubt, stop at once. Never try to reason it out, saying, "I wonder why I shouldn't do this?" God instructs us in what we choose; that is, He actually guides our common sense. And when we yield to His teachings and guidance, we no longer hinder His Spirit by continually asking, "Now, Lord, what is Your will?"- The Oswlad Chambers PublicationsClick on the 'back' button to return to where you were.1P@IB1Ýÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿ8ÿÿÿÿIBõB¬]BõBO n€º€€†F€ÀCm;*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV‚‚€‚ÿ"A Bible that's falling apart usually belongs to someone who isn't."- Charles Spurgeon8IB-C1ÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿ9ÿÿÿÿ-C ITopic44—DõBÄES t€‰€€†F€ÀC)v*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+NEXT.WAV€ €‚‚‚ÿMEDITATION The practice of reflection or contemplation. The word meditation or its verb form, to meditate, is found mainly in the Old Testament. The Hebrew words behind this concept mean "to murmur, "a murmuring," "sighing," or "moaning." This concept is reflected in , where the "blessed man" meditates on God's law day and night. The psalmist also prayed that the meditation of his heart would be acceptable in God's sight . Joshua was instructed to meditate on the Book of the Law for the purpose of obeying all that was written in it .÷-CãG( €ï€‚H€ƒ‚‚ÿThe Greek word translated as meditate occurs only twice in the New Testament. In Jesus instructed His disciples not "to meditate beforehand" in answering their adversaries when the end of the age comes. The word may be understood in this passage as the idea of preparing a defense for a court appearance. Paul, in <1 Timothy 4:15>, urged Timothy to meditate, or take pains with, the instructions he gives. The idea of meditation is also found in and .&øÄE I. *€ñ€‚H€ƒ‚‚‚‚‚‚‚‚ÿMeditation is a lost art for many Christians, but the practice needs to be cultivated again.(from Nelson's Illustrated Bible Dictionary)(Copyright (C) 1986, Thomas Nelson Publishers)Click on the 'back' button to return to where you were.8ãGAI1Û ÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿ:ÿÿÿÿAIè‚Topic45»h IüJS t€Ñ€€†F€ÀC©y*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+NEXT.WAV€ €‚‚‚ÿSUFFERING Agony, affliction, or distress; intense pain or sorrow. Suffering has been part of the human experience since man's fall into sin . The Psalms, one-third of which are laments, include graphic descriptions of suffering . The theme of the Book of Job is the problem of suffering and why God permits the righteous to suffer.¡yAIM( €ó€‚H€ƒ‚‚ÿThe Bible makes it clear that some suffering is the result of evil action or sin in the world. This type of suffering came upon man after the FALL in the Garden of Eden . But some suffering is not related to the past. It is forward-looking in that it serves to shape and refine God's children <1 Pet. 1:6-7; 5:10>. The Book of Hebrews declares that Jesus learned obedience by the things which He suffered , and that He was perfected through suffering . Suffering has the potential of demonstrating God's power <2 Cor. 12:7>. Those who suffer are in a position to comfort others <2 Cor. 1:3-6>.›süJD€( €ç€‚H€ƒ‚‚ÿSuffering also helps believers to identify with Christ, which is more than suffering for Christ. Through persecution and tortures, people have suffered for the sake of Christ and His kingdom . To suffer with Christ, however, is another matter. Paul speaks of the "fellowship of His [Christ's] sufferings" . Believers share in the suffering of Christ in the sense that through suffering they identify with Christ. To be a disciple involves suffering like the Master. Christ as Lord and His believers as disciples are boMD€ Inded even further through the experience of suffering.æMS‚) €Í€‚H€ƒ‚‚‚ÿAnother type of suffering is that endured for the sake of others. The prophet Isaiah portrayed the Suffering Servant as sin-bearer when he declared, "By His stripes we are healed" . Jesus announced repeatedly that His suffering was His mission . Looking back to the cross, Peter explained that "Christ also suffered once for sins, the just for the unjust, that He might bring us to God" <1 Pet. 3:18>.(from Nelson's Illustrated Bible Dictionary)•lD€è‚) "€Ø€‚H€‚‚‚‚‚ÿ(Copyright (C) 1986, Thomas Nelson Publishers)Click on the 'back' button to return to where you were.1S‚ƒ1×ÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿ;ÿÿÿÿƒ¿…aè‚z…\ †€ €€†F€ÀCZ*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV€€‚‚‚‚‚‚‚‚‚‚‚‚ÿTHE WILL OF GOD"For this is the will of God, your sanctification: that you should abstain from sexual immorality;"1 Thessalonians 4:3 (NKJV)"For this is the will of God, that by doing good you may put to silence the ignorance of foolish men--"1 Peter 2:15 (NKJV)"For it is better, if it is the will of God, to suffer for doing good than for doing evil."1 Peter 3:17 (NKJV)"Therefore let those who suffer according to the will of God commit their souls to Him in doing good, as to a faithful Creator."Eƒ¿…+ &€4€€‚€‚€‚ÿ1 Peter 4:19 (NKJV)1z…ð…1_ÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿ<ÿÿÿÿð…‡.È¿…‡f š€‘€€†F€ÀCé_*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAVârt4õ‰â¢z`/‰ârt4õ‰‚€‚‚€‚ÿ"..not returning evil for evil or reviling for reviling, but on the contrary blessing, knowing that you were called(kaleo) to this, that you may inherit a blessing."1 Peter 3:8-9 (NKJV)1ð…O‡1;ÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿ=ÿÿÿÿO‡Yˆ ¶‡YˆT v€m€€†F€ÀCab*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV‚‚€‚€‚ÿ"looking diligently lest anyone fall short of the grace of God; lest any root of bitterness springing up cause trouble, and by this many become defiled;"Hebrews 12:15 (NKJV)1O‡Šˆ1ñÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿ>ÿÿÿÿŠˆJŠÀYYˆJŠg œ€³€€†F€ÀC¥d*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAVâst4õ‰‚â¢z`/‰âst4õ‰‚€‚‚€‚ÿ"For what credit is it if, when you are beaten for your faults, you take it patiently? But when you do good and suffer, if you take it patiently, this is commendable before God.For to this you were called(kaleo), because Christ also suffered for us, leaving us an example, that you should follow His steps:"1 Peter 2:20-21 (NKJV)1Šˆ{Š1èÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿ?ÿÿÿÿ{Š2Œ·^JŠ2ŒY €€œ€€†F€ÀCéf*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV‚‚‚‚‚‚‚€‚€‚ÿ2842 koinonia (koy-nohn-ee'-ah);from 2844; partnership, i.e. (literally) participation, or (social) intercourse, or (pecuniary) benefaction: KJV-- (to) communicate (-ation), communion, (contri-) distribution, fellowship.2844 koinonos (koy-no-nos');from 2839; a sharer, i.e. associate: KJV-- companion, X fellowship, partaker, partner.1{ŠcŒ1"ÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿ@ÿÿÿÿcŒTŽñ˜2ŒTŽY €€1€€†F€ÀC-i*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV‚‚‚‚‚‚€‚‚€‚ÿ1657 eleutheria (el-yoo-ther-ee'-ah);from 1658; freedom (legitimate or licentious, chiefly moral or ceremonial): KJV-- liberty.1658 eleutheros (el-yoo'-ther-os);probably from the alternate of 2064; unrestrained (to go at pleasure), i.e. (as a citizen) not a slave (whether freeborn or manumitted), or (genitive case) exempt (from obligation or liability): KJV-- free (man, woman), at liberty.1cŒ…Ž1LÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿAÿÿÿÿ…Ž ÆTŽ U x€€€†F€ÀC‚*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV‚‚‚€‚€‚ÿ1515 eirene (i-ray'-nay);probably from a primary verb eiro (to join); peace (literally or figuratively); by implication, prosperity: KJV-- one, peace, quietness, rest, + set at one again.1…Žя1HÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿBÿÿÿÿяÁ;㠏ÁX ~€Ç€€†F€ÀCˆ*33яÁ 792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV‚‚‚‚‚‚€‚€‚ÿ2222 zoe (dzo-ay');from 2198; life (literally or figuratively): KJV-- life (-time). Compare 5590.2198 zao (dzah'-o);a primary verb; to live (literally or figuratively): KJV-- life (-time), (a-) live (-ly), quick.1яIÁ1ºÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿCÿÿÿÿIÁÒÃ1ÝÁzÃT v€»€€†F€ÀCqk*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV‚‚‚‚‚‚‚‚‚‚ÿ38 hagiasmos (hag-ee-as-mos');from 37; properly, purification, i.e. (the state) purity; concretely (by Hebraism) a purifier: KJV-- holiness, sanctification.37 hagiazo (hag-ee-ad'-zo);from 40; to make holy, i.e. (ceremonially) purify or consecrate; (mentally) to venerate: KJV-- hallow, be holy, sanctify.40 hagios (hag'-ee-os);from hagos (an awful thing) [compare 53, 2282]; sacred (physically, pure, morally blameless or religious, ceremonially, consecrated): X-IÁÒÃ+ &€Z€€€‚‚€‚ÿKJV-- (most) holy (one, thing), saint.1zÃÄ1ÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿDÿÿÿÿÄoÆ&ÖÒÃ)ÆP n€­€€†F€ÀCml*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV‚‚‚‚‚‚ÿ2129 eulogia (yoo-log-ee'-ah);from the same as 2127; fine speaking, i.e. elegance of language; commendation ("eulogy"), i.e. (reverentially) adoration; religiously, benediction; by implication, consecration; by extension benefit or largess: KJV-- blessing (a matter of) bounty (X -tifully), fair speech.2127 eulogeo (yoo-log-eh'-o);from a compound of 2095 and 3056; to speak well of, i.e. (religiously) to bless (thank or invoke a benediction upon, prosper): FÄoÆ+ &€6€€€‚‚€‚ÿKJV-- bless, praise.1)Æ Æ1€ÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿEÿÿÿÿ ÆïÇOúoÆïÇU x€õ€€†F€ÀC!|*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV‚‚‚€‚€‚ÿ3958 pascho (pas'-kho);including the forms (patho (path'-o) and pentho (pen'-tho)), used only in certain tenses for it; apparently a primary verb; to experience a sensation or impression (usually painful): KJV-- feel, passion, suffer, vex.1 Æ È1<ÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿFÿÿÿÿ È+ËVïÇvÊQ p€ €€†F€ÀCUŠ*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV‚‚‚‚‚‚‚ÿ"But you are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, His own special people, that you may proclaim the praises of Him who called you out of darkness into His marvelous light;"1 Peter 2:9 (NKJV)"But may the God of all grace, who called us to His eternal glory by Christ Jesus, after you have suffered a while, perfect, establish, strengthen, and settle you."1 Peter 5:10 (NKJV)"I marvel that you are turning away so soon from Him who called you in the grace of Christ, to a different gospel,"µ„ È+Ë1 0€ €€‚‚‚€‚‚‚‚€‚ÿGalatians 1:6 (NKJV)"that you would walk worthy of God who calls you into His own kingdom and glory."1 Thess 2:12 (NKJV)1vÊ\Ë1œÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿGÿÿÿÿ\ËÇÍ;ã+Ë—ÍX ~€Ç€€†F€ÀC͌*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV‚‚‚‚‚‚‚‚‚‚€‚ÿ4991 soteria (so-tay-ree'-ah);feminine of a derivative of 4990 as (properly, abstract) noun; rescue or safety (physically or morally): KJV-- deliver, health, salvation, save, saving.4990 soter (so-tare');from 4982; a deliverer, i.e. God or Christ: KJV-- saviour.4982 sozo (sode'-zo);from a primary sos (contraction for obsolete saoz, "safe"); to save, i.e. deliver or protect (literally or figuratively): KJV-- heal, preserve, save (self), do well, be (make) whole.0\ËÇÍ) "€€€‚‚‚€‚ÿ8—ÍÿÍ1ÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿHÿÍkÎ/FTopic46lÇÍkÎM j€>€€†F€ÀCµ*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+NEXT.WAV€ ‚ÿThe Big Picture Help Page.ÉÿÍ’R r€“€€‚€€‚‚ãVN€‰€‚‚€‚‚‚€€€‚‚€€‚ÿThis teaching material is in typical HELP FILE FORMAT. It is very easy to use and you simply follow the text.Click here for best settings to view this document (the first time you use this you need to read this).Using Links(1) On The Control Bar above the Teaching.The 'Contents' button: When clicked thikÎ’ÇÍs will take you to the main contents page.The 'Find' button: When clicked this will make the index/word search available to you.ZkÎìT v€ €€‚€€‚‚€€‚‚€€ÈEF(`index.htm',`',1)‰‚ÿThe 'Back' button: When clicked will take you back to the previously viewd page.The 'Glossary of Items' button: WHen clicked this will display the glossary of all diagrams, terms and words used.The 'Test' button: Just click here or on the 'Test' button above to access the full list of Self-Assessment tests for this course - each section's test will be available at it's end. These tests are designed as a self-assessment for you to make sure you took in all the main points made during each lesson._À’KŸ €€‚€€ÈEF(`agsgame.exe',`',1)‰ÈEF(`callhelp.doc',`',1)‰ÈEF(`callhelp.doc',`',1)‰‚‚€€ÈEF(`gifts.EXE',`',1)‰‚ÿThe 'Call Game' button: Just click here to play 'The Call'.Press enter and type in 'thecall' to start. - Or click on 'The Call' button above at any time. View 'Callhelp' in program manager for hints in this game or click here.The 'Spiritual Gifts' button: Just click here or on the 'Spiritual Gifts' button above to run the Spiritual Gifting Discovery tool - it is best to run this when prompted to do so in this teaching package.ëìØ¢ ×€‚H€‚€€‚‚€€ÈQEF(`http://members.nbci.com/_XMCM/FreeChristianDownloads/bigpic/start.htm',`',1)‰‚‚‚‚€€‚€ƒ€ã?N‰‚ÿThe 'Help' button: Will bring you to this page.The 'Go Online' button: Click here for the online version of 'The Big Picture' - this can be accessed any time by clicking 'Go Online' in the control panel above. (2) In The Teaching Itself.·Links that are underlined in solid green like this lead to other topic pages. These may be viewed by the normal scrolling method. If you want to return to where you came from simply click on the 'back' button in the top menu.(K% €€‚H€‚ÿÌ ØÌ, &€A€‚H€€€‚ÿTo print this topic simply click on the Print Topic option in the 'file' menu. To print popup text just right-click on the box and choose the print option.(ô% €€‚H€‚ÿðÀÌä 0 .€€‚H€ƒ€â¢t4õ‰‚ÿ·Links that are underlined with a green dotted line like this lead to pop-up boxes that will contain a definition of the word you clicked on or more information pertaining to that word.(ô % €€‚H€‚ÿ°Šä Œ & €€‚H€‚ÿTo print out the POPUP screen you need to RIGHT-CLICK on the box and choose the PRINT option (you can also COPY it or PASTE elsewhere).( ä % €€‚H€‚ÿyTŒ ] % €š€‚H€‚ÿYou will find that you can click on some of the pictures to go to relevant topic.(ä … % €€‚H€‚ÿï] š & €ß€‚H€‚ÿClicking on the links that lead to web pages will automatically open your web browser andgo online to the page requested. Clicking on the link to the game 'The Call' will cause the game screen to automatically come up over the teaching.(…  % €€‚H€‚ÿÚšš œ 2 2€Q€‚H€€€€€‚ÿAt any time you can go back to the main contents by clicking on the Contents button or to the glossary by clicking on it's respective button (Glossary of Items).«… G& € €‚H€‚ÿThe glossary contains a list of all diagrams, topics and Bible references used in this material and is useful for quick reference.(œ o% €€‚H€‚ÿEGŽ( €:€‚H€€‚ÿGoing Through The Lessons(oÜ% €€‚H€‚ÿ%ùŽ A, &€ó€‚H€€€‚ÿIt is best to follow the sequence of lessons with their consecutive sub-sections as there is a logical progression of thought. The breakdown of each section in the contents is for when you return after a break to study the material again: you can Ü AÇÍsimply click on the section you have got to and continue your studies. If you are prone to forget where you got to use the bookmark button to name where you have got to and then come back later (again by clicking the same button and choosing your link).(Ü5A% €€‚H€‚ÿ°Š AåA& €€‚H€‚ÿIf you are one individual studying this material ignore the sections for group study and concentrate on the individual study prompters.™t5A~B% €è€‚H€‚ÿIf you are a group, do go through all the group activities and excercises as they add to the learning experience.(åAŠB% €€‚H€‚ÿ#ý~BÉC& €û€‚H€‚ÿStudy at your own speed (or that of the group) and take time to pause and evaluate what has been learnt. Don't rush through, but take the time necessary for each section - praying all the way through for the lessons to become a living reality in you.(ŠBñC% €€‚H€‚ÿ;ÉC,D% €,€‚H€‚ÿAdvanced Searching.(ñCTD% €€‚H€‚ÿX&,D¬E2 2€M€‚H€€€€€‚ÿTo search for specific terms not listed in the glossary or contents menu press the find button and specify the type of search (maximize search capabilities is best). Once complied you will be able to use the powerful dearch engine to find a list of pages that contain any word or phrase.(TDÔE% €€‚H€‚ÿ[0¬E/F+ &€`€‚HãÞÛêA€‰‚ÿClick here to go back to the contents page.1ÔE`F1/ÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿIÿÿÿÿ`F^Gþª/F^GT v€U€€†F€ÀCÝ<*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAVâ™t4õ‰€‚ÿThis is an example of a pop-up screen. Just click again to make this screen dissapear. If there is another popup screen link you can click on it such as THIS ONE.1`FG1ÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿJÿÿÿÿGëI\ ^GëIS t€€€†F€ÀCån*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV‚‚‚‚‚€‚ÿAs you can see, the other pop-up screen has gone and this one will appear.With the Bible verses there will often be such links leading to the Hebrew (Old Testament) or Greek (New Testament) meanings of the words clicked.In such cases the number will represent Strongs numbers (the definitions are taken straight from PC Study Bible's Strongs references). You can use these nimbers for further study with other study materials.Just click on this screen to make it go away and you can continue where you left off.1GJ1„ÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿKÿÿÿÿJoOY ëIuLP n€€€†F€ÀCqu*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV‚‚‚‚‚‚ÿ"Blessed is the man who walks not in the counsel of the ungodly, nor stands in the path of sinners, nor sits in the seat of the scornful;But his delight is in the law of the LORD, and in His law he meditates day and night.He shall be like a tree planted by the rivers of water, that brings forth its fruit in its season, whose leaf also shall not wither; and whatever he does shall prosper."Psalm 1:1-3 (NKJV)"And the vineyard which Your right hand has planted, and the branch that You made strong for Yourself."8 J­N+ $€€€‚‚‚‚‚‚‚‚ÿPsalm 80:15 (NKJV)"Those who are planted in the house of the LORD shall flourish in the courts of our God.They shall still bear fruit in old age; they shall be fresh and flourishing,"Psalm 92:13-14 (NKJV)"Blessed is the man who trusts in the LORD, and whose hope is the LORD.For he shall be like a tree planted by the waters, which spreads out its roots by the river, and will not fear when heat comes; but its leaf will be green, and will not be anxious in the year of drought, nor will cease from yielding fruit."–uLoO, &€-€€‚‚‚‚‚€‚ÿJeremiah 17:7-8 (NKJV)"But He answered and said, "Every plant which My heavenly Father has not planted will be uprooted."Matthew 15:13 (NKJV)1­N O1iÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿLÿÿÿÿ OdoOQ p€'€€†F€ÀCµw*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV‚‚‚€‚ÿ"And he fence OoOd it, and gathered out the stones thereof, and planted it with the choicest vine, and built a tower in the midst of it, and also made a winepress therein: and he looked that it should bring forth grapes, and it brought forth wild grapes."Isaiah 5:2 (KJV)1 OA1ùÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿMÿÿÿÿA † ·MƒU x€o€€†F€ÀCZ*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV‚‚‚‚‚‚‚‚‚‚‚ÿ"She (wisdom) is a tree of life to those who take hold of her, and happy are all who retain her."Proverbs 3:18 (NKJV)"The fruit of the righteous is a tree of life, and he who wins souls is wise."Proverbs 11:30 (NKJV)"Hope deferred makes the heart sick, but when the desire comes, it is a tree of life."Proverbs 13:12 (NKJV)"A wholesome tongue is a tree of life, but perverseness in it breaks the spirit."Proverbs 15:4 (NKJV)wLAą+ $€™€€‚‚‚‚‚‚‚‚ÿ"He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches. To him who overcomes I will give to eat from the tree of life, which is in the midst of the Paradise of God."'Revelation 2:7 (NKJV)"In the middle of its street, and on either side of the river, was the tree of life, which bore twelve fruits, each tree yielding its fruit every month. The leaves of the tree were for the healing of the nations."Revelation 22:2 (NKJV)"Blessed are those who do His commandments, that they may have the right to the tree of life, and may enter through the gates into the city."EMƒ †( €:€€‚‚€‚ÿRevelation 22:14 (NKJV)1ą:†1»ÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿNÿÿÿÿ:†Ċ…6 †¿ˆO l€m€€†F€ÀCé_*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV‚‚‚‚‚ÿ"But when it pleased God, who separated me from my mother's womb and called me through His grace,to reveal His Son in me, that I might preach Him among the Gentiles, I did not immediately confer with flesh and blood,"Galatians 1:15-16 (NKJV)"Listen, O coastlands, to Me, and take heed, you peoples from afar! The LORD has called Me from the womb; from the matrix of My mother He has made mention of My name.And He has made My mouth like a sharp sword; in the shadow of His hand He has hidden Me, and made Me a polished shaft; in His quiver He has hidden Me."Ô:†Ċ1 0€©€€‚‚‚‚‚‚‚‚‚‚€‚ÿ"And He said to me, 'You are My servant, O Israel, in whom I will be glorified.'"Isaiah 49:1-3 (NKJV)"Before I formed you in the womb I knew you; before you were born I sanctified you; I ordained you a prophet to the nations."Jeremiah 1:5 (NKJV)"For You are my hope, O Lord GOD; you are my trust from my youth.By You I have been upheld from birth; you are He who took me out of my mother's womb. My praise shall be continually of You."Psalm 71:5-6 (NKJV)1¿ˆõŠ1kÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿOÿÿÿÿõŠ/Ž"×ĊK d€¯€€†F€ÀC•b*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV‚ÿ"All the thrill of boyhood dreams came on me just now, outside watching the sky die in the sea on every side. I wanted to sail when I was in grammar school, and well remember memorising the names of the sails from Merriam-Webster's ponderous dictionary in the library. Now I am actually at sea - as a passenger, or course, but at sea nevertheless - and bound for Equador. Strange - or is it ? - that childish hopes should be answered in the will of God for this NOW."ïõŠ/Ž) €ß€€‚‚€‚ÿIn Jim Elliot's journal of February 4th, 1952 as he set forth on his God-given call to Ecuador that would lead him to the Auca Indians who would Martyr him.("Shadow of the Almighty" byElisabeth Elliot, Chapter 18, opening paragraph.)1`Ž1°ÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿPÿÿÿÿ`Ž À,/Ž ÀS t€Y€€†F€ÀC e*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV‚‚‚‚‚€‚ÿ"I will bless the LORD who has given me counsel; my heart also instructs me in the night seasons.I have set the LORD always before me; because He is at my right hand I shall not be moved.Therefore my heart is glad, and my glory rejoices; my flesh also will rest in hope."Psalm 16:7-9 (NKJV)`Ž À/Ž1`Ž=À1ÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿQÿÿÿÿ=À÷Àºl À÷ÀN l€Ø€€†F€ÀC…g*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV‚€‚ÿ"When You said, "Seek My face," my heart said to You, "Your face, LORD, I will seek."Psalm 27:8 (NKJV)1=À(Á1òÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿRÿÿÿÿ(Áéĺ÷À;ÃY €€u€€†F€ÀCÉi*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAVâŸt4õ‰‚‚âŸt4õ‰‚ÿ"Relegating all problems to the Lord, trusting implicitly in His guidance for the past and future experiences produces the remark: "I will bless Jehovah, who hath given me counsel." My going to Equador is God's counsel, as is my leaving Betty, and my refusal to be counselled by all who insist I should stay and stir up the believers in US.And how do I know this is His counsel ? "Yea, my heart instructeth me in the night seasons."®|(ÁéÄ2 2€ù€€‚â t4õ‰‚‚‚‚€‚ÿOh, how good - for I have known that 'my heart' is instructing me for God."My heart said for Thee,'Seek ye my face.'" No visions or voices, but the counsel of a heart which desires God."Quote by Jim Elliot who was called to Equador in the early 1950s to be a Martyr for the faith.(Taken from "Shadow of the Almighty" by Elisabeth Elliot, Opening section of Chapter 17).1;ÃÅ1ÓÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿSÿÿÿÿÅŒÊcéÄ}ÇT v€€€†F€ÀCÅj*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV€€‚‚‚‚ÿTESTIMONY OF A DREAM GOD GAVE ME (Tim Gibson - author of this material)I have found that God gives important dreams or visions concerning crucial turning points/decisions in our life (God gave Peter the important vision of creatures in the net at the turning point of the Church reaching out to the Gentiles).In 1988 as I was stepping out into Missionary work with an organisation I had a girlfriend. She wanted me to work first and settle down but I felt I could continue the relationship which was my first real one.Ì¥ÅIÊ' €K€€‚‚‚‚ÿBut the Lord gave me a dream which was very vivid - I was in an open white Rolls Royce driving along a highway. My girlfriend was sitting besides me.Every time we went over a bump she would fly out of the car onto the wayside. I would have to stop, reverse, get out, pick her up and put her back in the car. This happened many times then the dream stopped.I was blinded by the situation (wrong relationships tend to do this) and didn't know what it meant. Eventually my friend plucked up the courage to tell me that it meant she was a hindrance to God's pure (white) purposes (car on highway) in my life. Each time we would encounter a difficulty (bump) she would hinder.sM}ÇŒÊ& €š€€€‚ÿI ended the relationship as a result (she took it quite well I must add!)8IÊôÊ1Ò ÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿTôÊÌRTopic47šŒÊÌw Œ€7€€†F€ÀCÑz*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+NEXT.WAV€ †"€‚ÈEF(`gifts.pdf',`',1)€‰€ ‚ÿLESSON FOUR: Moving Into Gifting.Click here for a more detailed study on Spiritual Gifts in Adobe Acrobat Format (printable student worksheet).tEôÊyÎ/ ,€‹€€‚€€‚‚‚‚‚ÿINTRODUCTION: Gifting is the Tool Of Our Calling.For Adam to be able to carry out his calling in the Garden of Eden he needed certain giftings. To tend and keep the garden what are the specific gifts he would need ? Gardening would be a main one and animal husbandry another not to mention numerous others!In our calling we will see that there will be main giftings needed that the Lord has equipped us with. I dentifying our God-given giftings will show us the kind of callings we are to be involved in and knowing our calling will confirm the need for certain giftings.8 Ìœ/ ,€€€‚€€‚‚‚‚‚ÿGroup Or Individual Activity: Look at the following scenarios and think about/discuss the various giftings you think would be needed for such a call...keep coiming back to this activity as you progress through this lesson and you will see your understanding deepen....(a) Someone who has a call of God to the mission field from a developyÎœŒÊed to an under-developed country. Their call is primarily church-planting in unreached areas.(b) Someone who feels called to train students for the ministry in Bible School.p2yÎ-> J€e€€‚‚‚‚‚‚â z`/‰âÉt4õ‰‚‚âÊt4õ‰‚ÿ(c) Someone who feels called to set up and lead a prayer house for the nations.(d) Someone who feels called into hospital ministry (praying for / ministeringto the patients.Read again Acts 26:15-18 and also Romans 1:1-6 and think about/discuss what Paul's calling was and what giftings the Lord endowed him with to be the correct tools for this calling.God's Mission is to see maturing, functioning bodies of believers in every tongue, tribe and nation. He does not leave us unequipped in this mission but has sent us THE GIFT - The HOLY SPIRIT.&œS# €€€‚ÿvD-É2 4€ˆ€€âÊt4õ‰âËt4õ‰‚ÿCHRIST'S GIFT (Ephesians 4:7) = THE HOLY SPIRIT (John 14:26).žSÑP n€q€€‚‚âSf4õ‰âSf4õ‰âÊt4õ‰‚‚‚‚ãŽN‰‚ãN‰‚ãN‰‚ÿThe GIFTS are merely expressions of THE GIFT. We may use the illustration of the Holy Spirit like a BOX which has ALL the GIFTS INSIDE. We need to ask the GIVER to open the GIFT (the Box) to distribute to us as He wills.Now continue your study by choosing your sub-topic below. When you have finished all these topics read on below them....What The Gifts Are Not.What The Gifts Are.Principles Involved With The GIfts. ºÉÛP n€u€ã‘N€‰‚‚‚‚ÈEF(`bigpic22.htm',`',1)€‰€‚ÿDiscovering Your Spiritual Gifts.When you have finished all of the above you should have a good grasp of the Spiritual Gifts needed in your calling (as much as the Lord has revealed). Some gifts that should be operational may be dormant due to various reasons which we will explore in the next section.Click here to access the Self-Assessment test for this lesson - this will help you make sure you took to heart the main points.wJÑR- *€”€€‚ãéN‰‚‚‚‚ÿNow go on to the next section: The Vision Building Questionairre.8ÛŠ1ŒÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿUŠ‘ ©ITopic48R‘ w Œ€#€€†F€ÀCQp*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+NEXT.WAV€ †"€‚ÈEF(`gifts.pdf',`',1)€‰€ ‚ÿWhat The Gifts Are Not.Click here for a more detailed study on Spiritual Gifts in Adobe Acrobat Format (printable student worksheet).b1Šó 1 0€c€€‚€âSf4õ‰‚‚‚‚ÿBefore we look at what the GIFTS are, it is important to state what they are not - as we will see later they are completely an act of God's grace towards us and have nothing to do with our natural ability, upbringing, training or that which is pushed upon us. The Gifts of the Spirit are not....<‘ / & €,€€ ‚ÿ(1) NATURAL TALENTSàó > / ,€Á€€ ‚‚€âSf4õ‰‚ÿSometimes we mistake natural giftedness for spiritual gifts. We will see this is not Biblical thinking. Just because someone is naturally gifted at oration (public speaking) that does not mean they have the Spiritual Gift of Teacher or Pastor or even Evangelist. It could be an indication that one such gifting is present but there again the person may be naturally a very poor speaker (as Moses felt he was ) but still called into a ministry that demands public speaking.Ð/ @2 2€¡€€‚€€âSf4õ‰‚‚ÿGroup or Individual Activity: What other natural giftings can you think of that may be mistaken for Spiritual Giftings ? What is the main difference between natural and Spiritual Giftings ? Discuss.E> …& €>€€ ‚ÿ(2) CHRISTIAN RESPONSIBILITYK@Ü@7 <€)€€ ‚‚€âSf4õ‰‚‚€€‚ÿBy Christian Responsibility we mean areas that all Christians are expected to move in no matter what their Spiritual Giftings may be. Such areas of responsibility include prayer, evangelism , discipleship, missions involvement (not necessarily going but involved in heart) and many other Biblically demanded responsibi…Ü@Rlities.Group or Individual Activity: What other areas of Christian Responsibility can you think of that all Christians should be involved in ? Why are these not Spiritual Gifts ? What's the difference ?&…A# €€€‚ÿ\0Ü@^A, (€`€€ â!z`/‰‚ÿ(3) FRUIT OF THE SPIRIT (Galatians 5:22-23)ÃA`C? L€‡€€ ‚‚€â!z`/‰âSf4õ‰âÌt4õ‰‚€ ‚ÿGifts and the Fruit of the Spirit are different, but may Christians think that the more Fruit you have the more Gifts you will have or vica verca. This is simply not the case. Indeed, they can even be mutually exclusive which means that they are not necessarily dependant on each other. Someone may move seemingly powerfully in the Gifts but have very little Fruit (such as was the case in Matthew 7:22-23) and the opposite is true also.Ç^AnFG \€€€âøt4õ‰âCt4õ‰â!z`/‰‚‚â!z`/‰âñt4õ‰€ ‚ÿBut in reality, both are needed. We are told in 1 Corinthians 13:1-3 that gifts without love (the main characteristic of all the fruits - see this quote by D.L.Moody) are like an unclear sound causing the opposite effect of what God desires. The more Fruit of the Spirit we bear, the more we should know of the Lord to move out and use the gifts He graciously bestows upon us.The Fruit of the Spirit is related to our AUTHORITY and the Gifts of the Spirit relates to our POWER. If you think of a Sheriff, they may have a badge saying Sheriff but without the gun they lack a certain power. On the other hand, a man with a gun but without the sheriff badge has the power but lacks the authority.úÍ`ChG- (€›€€ ‚€€‚‚‚ÿGroup or Individual Activity: Think about / discuss how the above illustration relates to Gifts and Fruit of the Spirit.Look at the chart below of the differences between the Fruit and the Gifts...2nFšG- *€ €€‚†"€(‚ÿÖhG©I9 @€­€€‚‚‚‚âSf4õ‰‚‚ãN‰€‚ÿThink about / discuss each of the differences. Which do you think are the most important, the Fruits or the Gifts ? Why ?We have seen that the Gifts of the Spirit are not natural talent, Christian responsibility or The Fruit of the Spirit but are needed as well as these things. Can you think of any other things that the Gifts may be mistaken for ? i.e. can you think of any more 'the Gifts are not....' statements ? Share.Go Back To Continue This Lesson.8šGáI1vÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿVáIKIÆTopic49žþ©IK  ÿ€€†F€ÀC­m*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+NEXT.WAV€†"€‚âñt4õ€‰€ÈEF(`gifts.hlp',`',1)€‰‚ÈEF(`gifts.pdf',`',1)€‰€‚ÿWhat The Gifts Are.The Chart on the Gifts Of The Spirit / Spiritual Gifts Detailed Descriptions (choose 'giftings explored').Click here for a more detailed study on Spiritual Gifts in Adobe Acrobat Format (printable student worksheet).ÖáI•M@ N€­€€‚€âSf4õ‰âÊt4õ‰âït4õ‰âžy`/‰‚ÿWe will now see what the Bible reveals to be the GIFTS OF THE SPIRIT that God makes available to us through THE GIFT (The Holy Spirit). It must be noted that operating in these gifts requires us being 'Baptised in the Spirit' - When we are born again the Spirit lives in us, when we are Baptised in the Spirit we live in the Spirit! It is the Baptism in the Spirit that empowers us to do His will, to be effective in His Vision and Calling (See Acts 1:8)).ç²K|O5 8€e€€‚‚‚€€âSf4õ‰‚‚‚ÿAt the point we are Baptised in the Spirit we receive the GIFT (The Holy Spirit) in full - He (The Holy Spirit) will then be manifest in and through us in whatever way He Wills.Group or Individual Activity: Look at the GIFTS OF THE SPIRIT SCRIPTURES and read through a few times. What specific Gifts do you see mentioned ? List them out.Now look at the following chart and see how the gifts fall into different categories.2•M®O- *€ €€‚†"€&‚ÿ¬_|OfM h€¿€€‚€€‚‚€ÈEF(`gifts.hlp',`',1)‰€‚‚ÿGr®Of©Ioup or Individual Activity: What are the three main categories of Gifts ? Think about/discuss what you think are the main characteristics of each category and why they are different.For a more detailed description of each gift see the Spiritual Gifts Help File - Choose the 'giftings explored' link to see the descriptions of each gift.T.®Oº& €\€€ ‚ÿ(1) Ministerial Gifts (Five-Fold Ministry).Ö f„6 :€A€€‚‚âSf4õ‰‚‚ã‘N‰‚‚‚ÿLook again at The Chart on the Gifts Of The Spirit (by clicking above below the title) and identify the MINISTERIAL Gifts - read Ephesians 4:11-13 .These are the OFFICE gifts which are full-time ministerial functions : Apostle, Prophet, Evangelist,Pastor and Teacher. These giftings will be explained more when you do Discovering Your Spiritual Gifts.Please note that there are MOTIVATIONAL gifts that can become three of these offices - Apostleship (a sending forth / missionary heart but not full-time Apostle), Shepherding (Pastor's heart but not in Office of a Pastor) and Teaching (All Teachers teach but not all who teach are in the office of Teacher).ÊœºZ‡. *€9€€‚‚‚‚â#u4õ‰‚ÿAll Spirit-Filled believers can Prophecy (as this is a MANIFESTATIONAL gift - see below), but not all who prophecy are Prophets. All believers should be involved in Evangelism as it is their Christian responisbility, but not all who do evangelism are Evangelists.You may have more than one of these offices at a given time or they may even change with time. One example is Barnabus. He started with the motivational gift of ENCOURAGEMENT (Was called the 'Son of Engouragement' in Acts 4:36). Later we see him being called a PROPHET or maybe a TEACHER (Acts 13:1) and even later he is mentioned as an APOSTLE (Acts 14:14) (See All these Scriptures Mentioned).&„€‡# €€€‚ÿb<Z‡â‡& €x€€ ‚ÿ(2) Motivational Gifts (Basic God-given life-motivation).òÄ€‡Ԋ. *€‰€€‚‚âSf4õ‰‚‚‚ÿLook again at The Chart on the Gifts Of The Spirit (by clicking above under the title) and identify the MOTIVATIONAL Gifts - read Romans 12:6-8 .This is a Christian's basic motivation in service. This is given once the believer has The Holy Spirit living in them at new birth. It is not, as has been seen , a natural talent and may even seem to go against the natural talents and temperament of the person at first! (I remember doing a giftings test when I was 13 years old having been 2 years a Christian. The test showed I had the gift of Teaching.However, I was very shy and couldn't even say boo to a goose. At first I thought the results were wrong, but this is the Lord's calling on my life).7⇠/ ,€€€‚‚‚‚‚ã‘N‰‚ÿThere may be more than one or even many but hardly ever all. These motivations, if allowed to operate, will be used in God's sphere of calling. For example, the gift of helps will be used in a ministry of helps in a specific form - this may be helping missionaries to look after their house/children for instance.As you learn to understand your basic God-given motivation, you will be clearer in what your call is.We will see more clearly what these gifts are when we look at Discovering Your Spiritual Gifts.&Ԋ1# €€€‚ÿ[5 Œ& €j€€ ‚ÿ(3) Manifestational Gifts (The 9 Spiritual Gifts)..ø1ÆÀ6 :€ñ€€‚‚âSf4õ‰‚‚âït4õ‰‚‚‚ÿLook again at The Chart on the Gifts Of The Spirit and identify the MANIFESTATIONAL Gifts - read 1 Corinthians 12:8-10 .These are literally 'shinings forth' that can be seen operating through us from the point we are Baptised in the Spirit. All Christians may move in ANY of these gifts according to the NEED OF THE MOMENT and the SOVEREIGN WILL OF GOD.They are unlike the other two categories in that they are not always part of us. They are given only at the time needed. Certain Motivation gifts will generally need more of certain Manifestational gifts. For ŒÆÀ©Iexample, one with the gift of Teaching will need Word of Knowledge and Word of Wisdom particularly, so the Lord will bestow these more commonly in their ministry as they move by faith.ÚŒÔÂ4 6€µ€€‚‚‚‚‚‚‚‚‚‚‚‚‚‚‚‚‚ÿGroup or Individual Excercise: Go through the list of Motivational Gifts and discuss what Manifestational gifts they will ESPECIALLY need.The MANIFESTATIONAL GIFTS may be split into three categories...(a) REVELATIONAL GIFTS (i) Word of Knowledge. (ii) Word of Wisdom. (iii) Discerning Of Spirits.(b) POWER GIFTS (i) Faith. (ii) Healing (iii) Miracles(c) VOCAL GIFTS (i) Tongues (NB.This is for congregational use to be interpreted).!øÆÀõÅ) €ñ€€‚‚‚‚‚‚ÿ (ii) Interpretation of Tongues. (iii) Prophecy. It is not within the scope of this material to look in detail at these MANIFESTATIONAL gifts as they are not as related to one's Vision and Calling as are the MINISTERIAL and MOTIVATIONAL gifts. In the next section we will look more in detail at these.During this section you have seen what the gifts are. Each one of us will have a predominant Motivational Gifting (our basic motivation as a Christian in service) which may develop into a Ministerial Gifting (full-time ministry gift). According to what our Motivational gift is we will shine forth certain Manifestational Gifts more than others but will be capable of using all such gifts as the Spirit wills (if we are baptized in the Spirit). T'ÔÂIÆ- *€N€€‚ãN‰€‚ÿGo Back To Continue This Lesson.8õŁÆ1ËÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿWÆ”ÇETopic50œIÆ”Çw Œ€;€€†F€ÀCñZ*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+NEXT.WAV€ †"€‚ÈEF(`gifts.pdf',`',1)€‰€ ‚ÿPrinciples Involved With The Gifts.Click here for a more detailed study on Spiritual Gifts in Adobe Acrobat Format (printable student worksheet).ZÆîÉD V€-€€‚€‚‚€€âñt4õ‰âSf4õ‰‚‚âòt4õ‰‚ÿWe will now look at general Scriptural principles of how the Gifts operate through us, His ministers.Group or Individual Activity: Look again at The Chart on the Gifts Of The Spirit and associated Scriptures on The Gifts Of The Spirit. What do you notice concerning the furnishing and operating of the gifts ? Write down and discuss things you see.Now look also at 1 Peter 4:10-11. Look particularly at the Greek words and write down important principles you see here about the furnishing and operation of the gifts.&”ÇÊ# €€€‚ÿAîÉUÊ& €6€€ ‚ÿSOME GENERAL PRINCIPLES.šfÊïÌ4 6€Í€€‚‚€€‚‚âòt4õ‰‚ÿ(1) All the Gifts are given (literally: choreographed) by GRACE and operate through FAITH.The wording in 1 Peter 4:10-11 is in the form of a dance master (Holy Spirit) arranging (choreographing) the dance, directing all the dancers (Christians) what style/mood (our own gifting and calling) to dance in within the overall play (God's Big Picture). We are picked as 'dancers' in His 'play' not due to any good in ourselves, but by GRACE (unmerited favour). The word 'manifold grace' means literally 'many-sided grace' - many-sided like a beautiful diamond with many faces just as there are many gifts.ì²UÊÛÏ: B€e€€‚âït4õ‰‚‚‚€€âu4õ‰‚ÿThey operate by trusting in the GIVER (by FAITH) - we are 'stewards' of these gifts given to us (when we are Baptised in the Spirit we receive the MANIFESTATIONAL gifts, but when we are first born again the MINISTERIAL and MOTIVATIONAL gifts become active).To be a steward means that we don't own them but are entrusted with them by our Master for a purpose. We must seek His purpose so we can use the Gifts wisely.Group or Individual Activity: In using the gifts there must be a 'ministering in grace' (See Ephesians 3:2 - the word dispensation means an 'administration'). Discuss/think about what it means to 'minister in grace'. What would be the opposite of this ? Explain.JïÌ1; D€€€‚€ÛÏ1IÆâu4õ‰€‚‚âñt4õ‰‚‚‚ÿ(2) The MINISTERIAL and MOTIVATIONAL gifts are imparted by the laying on of hands and by prophecy (See The Impartation of Spiritual Gifts scriptures).You can refer again to The Chart on the Gifts Of The Spirit.We must wait until the time 'appointed' to move in our giftings as the Lord takes us through a season of preparation first. The gift is given from the time of conversion, but the time for moving in authority in that gift will only come when we are ready and the Lord chooses to appoint us for the task.Ô˜ÛÏ< F€1€€‚€‚‚âñt4õ‰‚‚€€‚‚‚‚‚ÿ(3) The MANIFESTATIONAL gifts are available to ALL.You can refer again to The Chart on the Gifts Of The Spirit to see the list of MANIFESTATIONAL gifts.The BEST GIFT to be used as any time = The one MOST NEEDED at any particular instance.The MANIFESTATIONAL gifts are the tools of the MOTIVATIONAL (or MINISTERIAL) gifting one has, just as the MOTIVATIONAL and MINISTERIAL gifts are the tools of our CALLING.Depending on one's main MOTIVATIONAL (or MINISTERIAL) gifting, there will be a particular need for certain MANIFESTATIONAL gifts. One who is called as an Evangelist will particularly need the MANIFESTATIONAL gifts of HEALINGS and MIRACLES.á13 4€Ã€€‚€€‚‚€‚‚‚‚ÿGroup or Individual Activity: Look at the descriptions below of different MOTIVATIONAL (or MINISTERIAL) giftings people may have and think about / discuss the main MANIFESTATIONAL gifts that will predominate in their ministry...(a) A person who is called to be a teacher in the Church.(b) A person called as a missionary to an unreached people.(c) A person called to speak specific revelation/direction to their church.(d) A person called to be a leader in the Church.,ðE< F€á€€€‚‚‚‚âu4õ‰‚‚ãN‰€‚ÿ(e) A person called to be an Intercessor.The Spiritual Gifts must be operated within the limits of the above general principles as outlined or they will be misused. A proposed Group Excercise.Go Back To Continue This Lesson. 8}1µ ÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿX}Ž DTopic51šEŽ w Œ€7€€†F€ÀCI[*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+NEXT.WAV€ †"€‚ÈEF(`gifts.pdf',`',1)€‰€ ‚ÿDiscovering Your Spiritual Gifts.Click here for a more detailed study on Spiritual Gifts in Adobe Acrobat Format (printable student worksheet).§b}5 E X€Å€€‚€‚‚ÈEF(`gifts.EXE',`',1)‰‚‚‚ÿFor this section you will need to use the Wycliffe free software included in this package called 'Discovering Your Spiritual Gifts'. To access this is very easy. Just click here to run the Spiritual Gifting Discovery tool. Depending on how much time you have you can choose the number of questions to answer. Do look at the help file included the Spiritual Gifts assessment for detailed definitions of the various gifts.Take time to go through this questionairre and read the relevant help material. Go right through until you get the assessment of your test and then come back here to continue.... ㎠?' €Ç€€‚‚‚‚ÿFrom your results take time to separate MOTIVATIONAL from MANIFESTATIONAL giftings. For this teaching material we are more interested in the MOTIVATIONAL giftings.What are your main two or three MOTIVATIONAL giftings ? (note: in this test it also states the Ministerial Gifts - if you score high in these (Apostle, Prophet, Teacher, Evangelist or Pastor) it may not mean you are the OFFICE but have this gifting as a MOTIVATION that may lead to the OFFICE (Full-time calling)).‚Y5 Í@) €³€€‚‚‚‚‚‚ÿPlease note that various gifts were left out in the test which may be one of your main ones (such as MIRACLES and HEALINGS - you will find it very obvious if you have a ministry in either of these areas because of the dramatic results seen).Start to relate these main motivational gifting to what you believe your calling to be. You will find God has equipped you with gifts that match His calling on you?Í@Er life....For example: If God is calling you to train up believers in His word in a specific area the main gifting needed would be 'Teacher' , this is the most effective gift for this task. Ö?×B4 6€­€€‚€€‚‚€‚‚‚‚‚ÿGroup or Individual Activity: Think about / discuss the MAIN MOTIVATIONAL or MINISTERIAL gift needed for the following specific calls..(a) A person called of God into hospital ministry - helping practically and caring for the sick.(b) A person called to help out in the Church office arranging the filing system and helping in the structuring and ordering of Church activities.(c) A person called of God to drug addicts,counselling and helping them ¶Í@D7 <€ÿ€€‚‚€‚‚‚‚‚‚‚‚ãN‰‚ÿ practically back into society and into God's will.(d) A person who feels God is leading them to work with a little known tribe in China who have never hard the Gospel message before.Talk about / discuss what you feel to be: (1)YOUR CALLING.(2)YOUR MAIN MOTIVATIONAL / MINISTERIAL GIFTING.(3)MINISTERIAL GIFTS YOU MOST MOVE IN. Go Back To Continue This Lesson.1×BŸD1àÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿYÿÿÿÿŸDmGn"D,GL f€E€€†F€ÀCI[*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV‚‚ÿ"Paul, a bondservant of Jesus Christ, called to be an apostle, separated to the gospel of God which He promised before through His prophets in the Holy Scriptures, concerning His Son Jesus Christ our Lord, who was born of the seed of David according to the flesh, and declared to be the Son of God with power according to the Spirit of holiness, by the resurrection from the dead.Through Him we have received grace and apostleship for obedience to the faith among all nations for His name,among whom you also are the called of Jesus Christ;"AŸDmG( €2€€‚‚€‚ÿRomans 1:1-6 (NKJV)1,GžG1RÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿZÿÿÿÿžG¿H!ÏmG¿HR r€Ÿ€€†F€ÀC…`*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV‚‚‚‚€‚ÿ"But to each one of us grace was given according to the measure of Christ's gift.Therefore He says: "When He ascended on high, he led captivity captive, and gave gifts to men."Ephesians 4:7-8 (NKJV)1žGðH1>ÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿ[ÿÿÿÿðHýI Œ¿HýIQ p€y€€†F€ÀCyf*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV‚‚‚€‚ÿ"But the Helper, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in My name, He will teach you all things, and bring to your remembrance all things that I said to you."John 14:26 (NKJV)1ðH.J1œÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿ\ÿÿÿÿ.J™KkýI™KR r€3€€†F€ÀCœh*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV‚‚‚‚€‚ÿ"Many will say to Me in that day, 'Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in Your name, cast out demons in Your name, and done many wonders in Your name?'"And then I will declare to them, 'I never knew you; depart from Me, you who practice lawlessness!'"Matthew 7:22-23 (NKJV)1.JÊK1…ÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿ]ÿÿÿÿÊKN Ÿ™KÕMM h€}€€†F€ÀCk*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV‚‚‚ÿ"Though I speak with the tongues of men and of angels, but have not love, I have become sounding brass or a clanging cymbal.And though I have the gift of prophecy, and understand all mysteries and all knowledge, and though I have all faith, so that I could remove mountains, but have not love, I am nothing.And though I bestow all my goods to feed the poor, and though I give my body to be burned, but have not love, it profits me nothing."I!ÊKN( €B€€‚‚€‚ÿ1 Corinthians 13:1-3 (NKJV)1ÕMON1Zÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿ^ÿÿÿÿONUƒºNk€V z€u€€†F€ÀCEm*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV€€‚‚‚‚‚‚ÿBAPTISM IN THE HOLY SPIRIT SCRIPTURES"I did not know Him, but He who sent me to baptize with water said to me, 'Upon whom you see the Spirit descending, and remaining on Him, this is He who baptizes with the Holy Spirit.'John 1:33 (NKJV)"Then Peter said to them, "Repent, and let every one of you be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ foONk€Nr the remission of sins; and you shall receive the gift of the Holy Spirit."Acts 2:38 (NKJV)5ON ‚' €€€‚‚‚‚ÿ"who, when they had come down, prayed for them that they might receive the Holy Spirit. For as yet He had fallen upon none of them. They had only been baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus. Then they laid hands on them, and they received the Holy Spirit."Acts 8:15-17 (NKJV)"Then Paul said, "John indeed baptized with a baptism of repentance, saying to the people that they should believe on Him who would come after him, that is, on Christ Jesus."When they heard this, they were baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus.µ‹k€Uƒ* "€€€‚‚‚€‚ÿAnd when Paul had laid hands on them, the Holy Spirit came upon them, and they spoke with tongues and prophesied."Acts 19:4-6 (NKJV)1 ‚†ƒ1ÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿ_ÿÿÿÿ†ƒâƒ\UƒâƒV |€€€†F€ÀCœo*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV†"€(€‚ÿ1†ƒ„1ÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿ`ÿÿÿÿ„o„\âƒo„V |€€€†F€ÀCir*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV†"€&€‚ÿ1„ „1uÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿaÿÿÿÿ „䆧o„ž†q °€O€€†F€ÀC­t*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAVâót4õ‰âôt4õ‰âõt4õ‰‚âót4õ‰âöt4õ‰â÷t4õ‰‚‚ÿ"As each one has received a gift, minister it to one another, as good stewards of the manifold(or 'many sided') grace of God.If anyone speaks, let him speak as the oracles of God. If anyone ministers, let him do it as with the ability which God supplies, that in all things God may be glorified through Jesus Christ, to whom belong the glory and the dominion forever and ever. Amen."1 Peter 4:10-11 (NKJV), „ä†' € €€‚€‚ÿ1ž†‡1{ÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿbÿÿÿÿ‡_ˆJøä†_ˆR r€ñ€€†F€ÀCñv*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV‚‚‚‚€‚ÿ1247 diakoneo (dee-ak-on-eh'-o);from 1249; to be an attendant, i.e. wait upon (menially or as a host, friend, or [figuratively] teacher); techn. to act as a Christian deacon: KJV-- (ad-) minister (unto), serve, use the office of a deacon.1‡ˆ1•ÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿcÿÿÿÿˆô‰d_ˆô‰P n€)€€†F€ÀCiy*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV‚‚€‚ÿ3623 oikonomos (oy-kon-om'-os);from 3624 and the base of 3551; a house-distributor (i.e. manager), or overseer, i.e. an employee in that capacity; by extension, a fiscal agent (treasurer); figuratively, a preacher (of the Gospel): KJV-- chamberlain, governor, steward.1ˆ%Š1øÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿdÿÿÿÿ%ŠìŠÇxô‰ìŠO n€ð€€†F€ÀC­{*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV‚‚€‚ÿ4164 poikilos (poy-kee'-los);of uncertain derivation; motley, i.e. various in character: KJV-- divers, manifold.1%Š‹1;ÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿeÿÿÿÿ‹'Œ ºìŠ'ŒP n€u€€†F€ÀCñ}*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV‚‚€‚ÿ2479 ischus (is-khoos');from a derivative of is (force; compare eschon, a form of 2192); forcefulness (literally or figuratively): KJV-- ability, might ([-ily]), power, strength.1‹XŒ1ÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿfÿÿÿÿXŒ7ߏ'Œ7P n€€€†F€ÀC5€*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV‚‚€‚ÿ5524 choregeo (khor-ayg-eh'-o);from a compound of 5525 and 71; to be a dance-leader, i.e. (generally) to furnish: KJV-- give, minister.1XŒh1žÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿgÿÿÿÿh ÀH÷7°Q p€ï€€†F€ÀCy‚*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV‚‚‚‚‚‚‚ÿ"And Joses, who was also named Barnabas by the apostles (which is translated Son of Encouragement), a Levite of the country of Cyprus,"Acts 4:36 (NKJV)"Now in the church that was at Antioch there were certain prophets and teachers: Barnabas, Simeon who was called Niger, Lucius of Cyrene, Manaen who had been brought up with Herod the tetrarch, and Saul."Acts 13:1 (NKJV)"But when the apostles Barnabas and Paul heard this, they tore their clothes and ran in among the multitude, crying out.."?h À( €.€€‚‚€‚ÿActs 14:14 (NKJV)° À71°=À1ÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿhÿÿÿÿ=ÀÁÕ ÀÁV |€þ€€†F€ÀCu‡*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAVâu4õ‰‚‚‚€‚ÿ"if indeed you have heard of the dispensation of the grace of God which was given to me for you,"Ephesians 3:2 (NKJV)1=ÀCÁ1,ÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿiÿÿÿÿCÁ>Âû©Á>ÂR r€S€€†F€ÀCÙ;*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV‚‚‚‚€‚ÿ3622 oikonomia (oy-kon-om-ee'-ah);from 3623; administration (of a household or estate); specifically, a (religious) "economy": KJV-- dispensation, stewardship.1CÁoÂ1”ÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿjÿÿÿÿoÂÒÃc>ÂÒÃN j€+€€†F€ÀCí‰*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV€‚ÿGive each person a card with one of the MOTIVATIONAL gifts written on it. Each person takes turns in acting out (without words) that gifting so that everyone else has to guess what it is. Count how many guesses it takes. The winner is the one who takes the least guesses. 1oÂÄ1nÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿkÿÿÿÿÄ@Æ·ÒÃÆZ ‚€o€€†F€ÀC1Œ*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV€€‚‚‚‚‚‚‚‚‚‚ÿTHE IMPARTATION OF SPIRITUAL GIFTS"For I long to see you, that I may impart to you some spiritual gift, so that you may be established--"Romans 1:11 (NKJV)"Therefore I remind you to stir up the gift of God which is in you through the laying on of my hands."2 Timothy 1:6 (NKJV)"Do not neglect the gift that is in you, which was given to you by prophecy with the laying on of the hands of the eldership."1 Timothy 4:14 (NKJV),Ä@Æ' € €€‚€‚ÿ8ÆxÆ1}ÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿlÿÿÿÿxÆœÍTopic52<á@ÆŽÊ[ „€Ã€€†F€ÀCåŽ*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+NEXT.WAV€ €‚‚€€‚‚‚ÿ"The Devotion Of Hearing""Speak; for Thy servant heareth."  1Samuel 3:10Because I have listened definitely to one thing from GOD, it does not follow that I will listen to everything He says.  The way in which I show GOD that I neither love nor respect Him is by the obtuseness of my heart and mind towards what He says.  If I love my friend, I intuitively detect what he wants, and Jesus says, "Ye are My friends."  Have I disobeyed some command of my LORD's this week?  If I had realized that it was a command of Jesus, I would not consciously have disobeyed it; but most of us show such disrespect to GOD that we do not even hear what He says, He might never have spoken. The destiny of my spiritual life is such identification with Jesus Christ that I always hear GOD, and I know that GOD always hears me (John 11:41). If I am united with Jesus Christ, I hear GOD, by the devotion of hearing all the time.  A lily, or a tree, or a servant of GOD, may convey GOD's message to me.ySxÆ-Í& €§€€‚‚‚ÿWhat hinders me from hearing is that I am taken up with other things.  It is not that I will not hear GOD, but I am not devoted in the right place.  I am devoted to things, to service, to convictions, and GOD may say what He likes, but I do not hear Him.  The child attitude is always, "Speak, LORD, for Thy servant heareth."  If I have not cultivated this devotion of hearing, I can only hear GOD's voice at certain times;at other times I am taken up withthings - things which I say I must do, and I become deaf to Him, I am not living the life of a child.  Have I heard GOD's voice today?iŽÊœÍ' €Ò€€‚‚‚‚‚ÿ(Inspirational submitted by:  Bob Headrick)Click on the 'back' button to return to where you were.8-ÍõÍ1®ÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿmÿÿÿÿõÍ/Topic53”?œÍ•U x€€€†F€ÀCí*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+NEXT.WAV€ €‚‚‚‚‚ÿ"Must I Listen?""And they said unto Moses, Speak thou with us and we will hear; but let not GOD speak with us, lest we die."  Exodus 20:19We do not consciously disobey GOD, we simply do not heed Him.  GOD has given us His commands; there they are, but we do not pay any attention to them, not because of willful disobedience but because we do not love and respect Him. "If ye love Me, ye will keep My commandments."  When once we õÍ•œÍrealize that we have been "disrespecting" GOD all the time, we are covered with shame and humiliation because we have not heeded Him.  DõÍÙ) €7€€‚‚‚‚‚‚ÿ"Speak thou with us . . .but let not GOD speak with us."  We show howlittle we love GOD by preferring to listen to His servants only.  We like tolisten to personal testimonies, but we do not desire that GOD Himself shouldspeak to us.  Why are we so terrified lest GOD should speak to us?  Because we know that if GOD does speak, either the thing must be done or we must tell GOD we will not obey Him.  If it is only the servant's voice we hear, we feel itis not imperative, we can say, "Well, that is simply your own idea, though I0• . *€€€‚‚‚‚‚‚‚‚‚‚‚ÿdon't deny it is probably GOD's truth."Am I putting GOD in the humiliating position of having treated me as achild of His whilst all the time I have been ignoring Him?  When I do hearHim, the humiliation I have put on Him comes back on me - "LORD, why was I so dull and so obstinate?"  This is always the result when once we do hear GOD.The real delight of hearing Him is tempered with shame in having been solong in hearing Him.- Oswald ChambersClick on the 'back' button to return to where you were.&Ù/# €€€‚ÿ8 g1y ÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿng¿BTopic54X/¿S v€ €€†F€ÀCña*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+NEXT.WAV†"€ ‚ÿIg / ,€5€€‚€ €‚‚‚‚‚ÿABOUT THIS QUESTIONAIRRE:This Vision Building Questionairre and it's associated PopUp helps is designed to help you move practically into your God-given Vision/Calling. There are a series of questions helping you see where you ACTUALLY ARE in terms of Gifting and Vision/Calling with practical ways of identifying and overcoming hindrances in order to mature and move in these areas.As you look at each of the following sections PRINT OUT THE SHEET and answer the questions on paper, referring to the PopUp helps using your computer display. Answer with honesty and integrity (remember: it is YOU who will benefit from this). The end-product of filling in these sheets will hopefully be that you will identify a definite next step you should be taking to move in your Vision/Calling.-¿5 ' € €€‚‚‚‚ÿIf, however, you get stuck in one area (eg. You are lacking in Spiritual Gifting, don't understand the importance of natural talents, have had no or little revelation for your Vision/Calling etc..) then you should look at the relevant PopUp help which provide practical help in answering this questionairre. Possible hindrances are mentioned so you can identify them and deal with them.Obviously the process will take different amounts of time depending on your maturity and the way the Lord is dealing with you.&õ [1 0€ë€€‚‚‚‚‚‚‚â×f4õ‰‚ÿDo not be afraid to seek ministry from mature Christians whom you respect where you need more advanced help.This lesson may constantly be referred to at different times in your Christian experience and will undoubtedly reveal more things about your Giftings and Vision/Calling and will probably lead to a reassessment of what you are doing.Throughout the completing of this questionairre remain in an attitude of reflective/asking prayer.NB: The main purpose of this excercise is NOT to 'force the vision' (not to come up with something that is not God's Will or in His timing), but to help you see more clearly what the Lord is already saying and indeed has been saying to you with increasing intensity since your conception ( Jeremiah 1:4-9).%Ù5 €L f€³€‚H€‚€€‚‚‚‚€ƒãêN€‰‚€ƒãëN€‰‚ÿAs you answer the following sections do it with honesty and DO NOT RUSH IT!Choose your section....·Identifying Your Spiritual and Natural Giftings.·Identifying God's Specific Calling On Your Life.([š% €€‚H€‚ÿV'€ @/ .€N€‚H€ƒãN€‰‚ÿ·Conclusions and Planning Stage.š @/(š4@% €€‚H€‚ÿÁ˜ @õ@) €1€‚H€€‚ÿGroup or Individual Activity: Take the life of Peter as an example and go through the Giftings and Calling questionairre as if you are him! Use thisS(4@HA+ &€P€‚Hã@N€‰‚ÿShort Summary of the Life of Peter.(õ@pA% €€‚H€‚ÿwLHAçA+ &€˜€‚H€ãHN‰‚ÿNow you are ready for the last Lesson: Lesson 6 : Communicating Vision.(pAB% €€‚H€‚ÿ8çAGB1ãÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿoGBÓBpTopic55Œ6BÓBV |€n€€†F€ÀCñZ*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+NEXT.WAV€ †"€‚ÿIdentifying your Spiritual and Natural Giftings.êGBæC) €Õ€€‚€‚‚ÿThis section of the questionairre is to determine your main Spiritual Gifts and Talents that will be used as tools or your calling. Indeed, as you identify ,these your calling should become more defined and easier to recognise. I#ÓB/D& €F€€ ‚ÿ(1) YOUR MAIN SPIRITUAL GIFTING:œyæCìED V€ó€€‚‚ã‘N‰‚‚âSf4õ‰âñt4õ‰‚‚âFu4õ‰‚‚‚ÿYou will already have a good idea of the Spiritual Gifts you have, having been through the lesson on Discovering Your Spiritual Gifts. Look again at the various Gifts Of The Spirit from Scripture and also look at the Chart on the Gifts Of The Spirit.If you still are unsure of your Spiritual Gifts then click for the PopUp Checkup of Hindrances to Giftings.sJ/D_F) "€”€€‚‚‚‚ÿMy Main Spiritual Gifts (Motivational and/or Ministerial) are:1.2.3.(ìE‡F$ €€€‚‚ÿɝ_FPG, &€;€€‚‚‚‚‚‚ÿThese will be the TOOLS for your calling. Look at them and write down how they may be used - what spheres of ministry they would be most effective in(‡FxG$ €€€‚‚ÿG!PG¿G& €B€€ ‚ÿ(2) YOUR MAIN NATURAL TALENTS:#öxGâH- (€í€€‚‚âLu4õ‰‚‚ÿList out your main natural talents and besides each how you think you could use them for God or how you are already using them (If you have difficulty here look at the PopUp Checkup on hindrances to moving in God-given natural abilities.)~S¿G`I+ &€Š€€‚‚‚‚‚‚ÿMy main natural talents with possible uses for God's glory are...1.2.3.4.5.(âHˆI$ €€€‚‚ÿ¶Š`I>J, &€€€‚‚‚‚‚‚ÿWhen you were young what were your favourite hobbies ? List them out and state how each could be used for God's glory...1.2.3.4.5.(ˆIfJ$ €€€‚‚ÿX2>JŸJ& €d€€ ‚ÿ(3) DREAMS AND DESIRES FOR GIFTING AND TALENTS:(ùfJæL/ ,€ó€€‚‚‚âyu4õ‰‚‚‚ÿThe Lord will often give us dreams (inner desires) about the use of our abilities. However, we must subject these to the testing and refining of the Lord.Look at the story of the Feeding of the 5000. Imagine that the five loaves and two fish represent our natural gifting. We are one of the disciples who has these things in his hands. The plan Jesus has is to feed the multitudes. However, we must do certain things before this can be fulfilled..(1) Come to Jesus with the little that we have.~UŸJdN) €«€€‚‚‚‚‚‚ÿ(2) Offer it all up to Him.(3) Let Him bless it, break it and give it back to you. There must be a process of the breaking of your abilities before you can receive them back to truly be multiplied among the hungry multitudes.(4) Lastly, we must GO and distribute it to the multitudes.Write down dreams/desires you have in terms of...vKæLÚN+ &€–€€‚‚‚‚‚‚ÿSpiritual Gifts (eg. I dream of being an anointed teacher for God.)&dNO# €€€‚ÿpDÚNpO, (€ˆ€€‚‚‚‚‚‚‚ÿNatural Talents (eg. I dream of writing a Christian book.) ô·Op= H€o€€‚‚âpu4õ‰‚‚‚‚‚‚‚‚‚‚‚ãëN‰‚ÿAnalyse the above desires. Do they come out of a heart delighting in the Lord anpOpBd His ways ? (read Psalm 37:4).Looking above , write down any common theme linking the talents and gifts together...By the end of this section you should have an idea of the TOOLS God has equipped you with for His calling on your life. Now you must look at what the Lord has so far revealed of that calling.....Continue The Questionairre. 8pOš1| ÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿpš5‚€ŽTopic567p5‚V |€p€€†F€ÀCé]*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+NEXT.WAV€ †"€‚ÿIdentifying God's Specific Calling For Your Life.üÓš1ƒ) €§€€‚€‚‚ÿYou will find it useful to look back over what you can see as indications of God's call on your life even from your birth. Go carefully over this section answering as honestly and accurately as you can. B5‚sƒ& €8€€ ‚ÿ(1)YOUR PERSONAL HISTORY: p1ƒ…0 .€á€€‚‚‚‚‚âqu4õ‰‚‚ÿEven before you became a Christian God has called you. There will be certain indications from your past as to your inclinations (good or bad).Write down below all the areas/people/things you felt 'drawn to' and besides each one write the reason you think this was so (God or self ?)....If you are still unsure see this Example of right and wrong 'drawings'.öÇsƒ †/ ,€€€‚‚‚‚‚‚‚‚‚ÿWhen I was young I had particular drawing to... (under each thing you felt drawn to write the reasons to determine if it was God or self)...1.Reasons...2.Reasons...3.Reasons...4.Reasons...(…1†$ €€€‚‚ÿJ$ †{†& €H€€ ‚ÿ(2) THINGS THE LORD HAS REVEALED:1ÿ1†¬‡2 2€ÿ€€ ‚€‚‚‚ãªïr‰‚‚ÿAfter becoming a Christian the Lord will reveal His way through prophecies, dreams, vision, words etc...Look again at the section onFaulty Hearing and Seeing to determine any areas hindering you from hearing and seeing God's will in these ways. o{†Lˆ1 2€Þ€€‚‚‚‚‚‚‚‚‚‚‚‚ÿWrite down prophecies you have received concerning your specific calling (with the date given)...(¬‡tˆ$ €€€‚‚ÿ^Lˆ‰1 2€Œ€€‚‚‚‚‚‚‚‚‚‚‚‚ÿWrite down dreams and visions you have received from the Lord (with the date)...(tˆ+‰$ €€€‚‚ÿ®}‰ى1 2€ú€€‚‚‚‚‚‚‚‚‚‚‚‚ÿWrite down words from Scripture you have had quickened to you about your life ministry (with interpretation)...(+‰Š$ €€€‚‚ÿyGىzŠ2 4€Ž€€âru4õ‰‚‚‚‚‚‚‚ÿWrite down any divine guidance in terms of Circumstances ...(Š¢Š$ €€€‚‚ÿ·ŠzŠY‹- (€€€‚‚‚‚‚‚‚ÿWhat are you doing now that is directly related to His calling on your life ? (this may cause you to reassess your priorities)...(¢Š‹$ €€€‚‚ÿ=Y‹Ÿ‹& €.€€ ‚ÿ(3) WHAT OTHERS SAY:œ–‹{Œ' €-€€‚‚‚‚ÿAsk one or two people who know you well and are moving forward in their giftings...(others can often see things that you cannot see yourself)...i>Ÿ‹äŒ+ &€|€€‚‚‚‚‚‚ÿWhat they see your main spiritual giftings as being...({Œ $ €€€‚‚ÿa6äŒm+ &€l€€‚‚‚‚‚‚ÿWhat they see as God's calling on you life....ß €Ž4 6€¿€€‚‚‚‚‚‚‚‚‚‚ãN‰‚ÿLooking at the above write down the common thread of revelation (the main theme that seems to be revealed) concerning your main calling... Go and complete the final stage of the Vision Building Questionairre.8mžŽ1IÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿqžŽ3Ò Topic57{%€Ž3V |€L€€†F€ÀCÙ^*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+NEXT.WAV€ †"€‚ÿConclusions and Planning Stage.&žŽY# €€€‚ÿ:3“& €(€€ ‚ÿ(1) INTRODUCTION:àY»Á< F€Á€€‚‚âÿ|4õ‰‚‚‚â}4õ‰‚â}4õ‰‚ÿBy this stage you should have at least an inkl“»Á€Žing as to God's vision and calling on your life - at least as much as God has revealed to you up until now. Click here to view the three spheres diagram again and look afresh at it to detemine where you feel God is asking you to get involved. Look again at the word definitions and see if your unfolding calling fits into any of the sheres/sections.....Frontier Missions and Regular Missions.Nonresidential Missionary.Ê“¿Ã: B€•€â}4õ€‰‚â}4õ‰‚â…{4õ‰‚‚‚ÿBridge People - Trainers, Mobilizers,Motivators.Business For Missions and Tentmaking.Senders (Which includes Givers and Prayers).Remember, what He is calling you to will ultimately be used to see His overall Mission furthered - to see the earth filled with believers bearing His image, ruling and reigning in justice and righteousness. If what you feel God is calling you to contradicts this goal in any way then it will not be a calling of God!)û»ÁèÄ. *€÷€€‚âsu4õ‰‚‚‚‚ÿWe now want to see this vision come true (see Proverbs 16:3). This is done by prayerful goal setting, implementation and evaluation as we shall see in this section .NB. This strategy may be used for individual vision and team vision planning.F ¿Ã.Å& €@€€ ‚ÿ(2) STREAM-LINING THE VISION:Ó«èÄÆ( €W€€‚‚‚‚‚ÿBefore any specific goals can be set we need to 'stream-line' our vision using the following sequence....From the questionairre you have already filled in state....tJ.ÅuÆ* $€”€€‚‚‚‚‚ÿA general one sentence statement for your overall vision/calling...(ƝÆ$ €€€‚‚ÿg=uÆÇ* $€z€€‚‚‚‚‚ÿA one sentence vision/calling for the next 10 years...(Æ,Ç$ €€€‚‚ÿ¶‹ÇâÇ+ $€€€‚‚‚‚‚ÿA one sentence vision/calling for the next 1 or 2 yers (or in the case of short-term teams this could be a matter of weeks/months)..–p,ÇxÈ& €à€€‚‚‚‚ÿNow we need to break the last vision/calling statement into it's various 'vision areas' or 'ministries'...7âǯÈ) "€€€‚‚‚‚ÿ1.2.3.4.š|xÈWÉ, (€ø€€‚‚âtu4õ‰‚‚ÿNow, for each of these areas/ministries , list three or four goals (after having read this PopUp on Goal Setting)...B¯È™É* $€0€€‚‚‚‚‚ÿAREA ONE:1.2.3.4.(WÉÁÉ$ €€€‚‚ÿB™ÉÊ* $€0€€‚‚‚‚‚ÿAREA TWO:1.2.3.4.(ÁÉ+Ê$ €€€‚‚ÿDÊoÊ* $€4€€‚‚‚‚‚ÿAREA THREE:1.2.3.4.(+Ê—Ê$ €€€‚‚ÿCoÊÚÊ* $€2€€‚‚‚‚‚ÿAREA FOUR:1.2.3.4.(—ÊË$ €€€‚‚ÿ<ÚÊ>Ë& €,€€ ‚ÿ(3) IMPLEMENTATION:t0˲ÍD V€a€€‚‚€€‚‚âuu4õ‰‚‚€€‚‚€€‚ÿ'A goal well planned is 50% achieved.'Good implementation of your vision begins with a good plan. Use this PopUp PLANNING CHART for EACH GOAL you have written in EACH AREA of ministry using the following pointers...(i) Strategizing: This refers to the steps or activities needed to achieve the goal. The routes you follow should be prayerfully selected based on your giftings and callings.(ii) Scheduling: After the activities are chosen and put into sequential order, a calendar is developed showing when each activity is to be completed.”f>ËR. *€Í€€‚€€‚‚‚‚ÿ(iii) Recruiting : This is especially relevant if you are doing a 'team vision' or Church Vision statement. If this is your own vision, initially it will be yourself that carries out the various activities with the aim of drawing others into your vision. Following are two rules to enhance recruiting...(a) Assign no one to any task until they have been prayerfully considered and contacted, and have freely volunteered to do the task.(b) Each step is assigned to someone who has agreed to be responsible to see that step carried out on²ÍR€Ž schedule (they can use the same guidelines to recruit others also).G²Í™0 .€/€€‚€€‚‚‚‚‚‚ÿ(iv) Monitoring: Resourcing involves determining and providing such needs as equipments, space, money and volunteer workers.Monitoring involves determining how the entire plan will be followed to be sure it functions properly and on time.Strategizing, scheduling and assigning provide the framework for monitoring.Monitoring questions are...(a) Where are we in the plan ? What steps are accomplished and what should we do next ?(b) Are the steps being done according to the schedule ? If not, what adjustments are needed ?|XR$ €°€€‚‚ÿ(c) Are the workers doing their job satisfactorily ? Are they in need of resources ?8™M& €$€€ ‚ÿ(4) EVALUATION:5‚0 .€ €€‚‚‚‚‚‚‚‚‚‚‚‚‚ÿThis is the most important of all the steps.Following is a list of questions that are helpful in guiding your evaluation...I. Evaluation of Goals and Objectives.. A. What are the goals you have been pursuing ? B. Are these goals coherent with your vision ? Are they the right goals ? C. Are the goals clear and realistic ?II. Evaluation of Programmes and Activities.. A. Is your programme coherent with your vision ? B. To what extent is your programme achieving the goals ? Is it effective ?3Mµ+ $€€€‚‚‚‚‚‚‚‚ÿ C. Is your programme worth the time, effort and money ? Is it efficient ? D. Are there any positive and/or negative side effects ? Needed action ? Are your programmes causing any unplanned, unanticipated results ?III. Problem Solving and Future Planning.. A. What changes need to be made in your present activities to make them more effective ? B. What new goals and programmes do you need to help you achieve your vision ?You should set regular times during which you evaluate - preferably as a team.&‚Û# €€€‚ÿ8µ& €$€€ ‚ÿ(5) CONCLUSION:2ÛE , &€ €€‚‚âm4õ‰‚ÿWe need to be goal-directed people just as Paul was! He was led by the Holy Spirit and the Holy Spirit was not hindered by Paul's goals. He was able to speak to Paul precisely because Paul and his team had specific goals to talk about. A careful reading of Acts 16 shows that the Spirit told him not to speak in Phrygia and Galatia (v6) though it was his goal. According to verse 7 (Acts 16:7-10) it was Paul's goal to go to Bithynia but the Spirit then gave Paul a vision and in it a new direction : Macedonia.ÚH ) €µ€€‚‚‚‚‚‚ÿGroup or Individual Activity: Go through the above stages with your own vison (if an individual) or the groups vision (if a group), writing the Planning- Implemention Worksheets for all the goals you come up with.It has been said "It is the quality of vision that it comes to people who are goal minded, not to muddlers who excuse their lack of planning and work by saying they are waiting on the Lord to direct them."Do you agree with this ? Discuss it with others.ŠXE Ò 2 4€°€€‚âvu4õ‰‚‚ãéN‰‚ÿA proposed Group Excercise for Vision PlanningGo Back To Continue This Lesson.8H  1;ÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿrÿÿÿÿ ç€Topic58CèÒ M[ „€Ñ€€†F€ÀC<*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+NEXT.WAV€ €‚‚€€‚‚‚ÿRegarding signs and wonders:SIGN Something that points to, or represents, something larger or more important than itself. The word is used in this way to refer to a wide variety of things in the Bible. But by far the most important use of the word is in reference to the acts of God. Thus, it is often linked with "wonders." In the Old Testament most references point to the miracles produced by God to help deliver the Hebrew people from slavery in Egypt .!ú zA' €õ€€‚‚‚‚ÿIn the New Testament the word signs is linked with both "wonders" and "miracles" . Signs point primarilMzAÒ y to the powerful, saving activity of God as experienced through the ministry of Jesus and the apostles. The word occurs frequently in the Gospel of John, pointing to the deeper, symbolic meaning of the miracles performed by Jesus. Throughout the Bible the true significance of a sign is understood only through faith.(from Nelson's Illustrated Bible Dictionary)ÜMŠC4 6€¹€€‚‚€€‚‚‚‚‚‚‚‚‚ÿ(Copyright (C) 1986, Thomas Nelson Publishers)More....Since there has been a new round of sign phenomena beginning to be heard about, particularly the incredible appearance of gold dust, gold flakes and even golden fillings appearing in people's mouths; and since there has been some discussion about it on this list, I have felt compelled to share some principles about signs and wonders. It could have been predicted, (not prophesied - well, maybe prophesied òzA§E+ $€å€€‚‚‚‚‚‚‚‚ÿtoo) that there would quickly arise a polarization within the Body of Christ about whether these signs and wonders were divine or counterfeit. The fact is, it could be either in any given case. What would you answer to this question? Someone turns a rod into a serpent - is it a divine sign and wonder.. or counterfeit? Well, in Scripture we see it could be either, as in the case of Moses and the Egyptian magicians. A sign is an abnormal, unusual attention-getter, designed to point to óŠCÄG* "€ç€€‚‚‚‚‚‚‚ÿsomething. Here, where I live in Northwest Florida, there are lots and lots of trees. In fact I live in the midst of miles and miles of pine forests. If I were to tell someone to drive down the road for a few miles until they saw the pine tree on the left and turn there, they would most certainly become lost since there are hundreds of trees all looking pretty much the same. If, on the other hand I said, "look for the pine tree that has been sawed into planks, nailed together, painted æ§EÕI+ $€Í€€‚‚‚‚‚‚‚‚ÿwhite and has an arrow on it pointing left", (i.e. a sign) it would be much easier to find the destination the sign points to. The fact is, a sign is simply that, an unusual "something" that gets our attention. A sign is of necessity an unusual, abnormal phenomena, otherwise is would not serve its purpose. The validity of the sign is found in not what the sign is, but what the sign points to. The sign phenomena itself cannot be the solo criteria by which we judge whether ÙÄGÚK, &€³€€‚‚‚‚‚‚‚‚‚ÿit is divine or counterfeit. A sign is meant to point to something. What it points to makes all the difference. And that leads to another principle. The sign is not the destination, but points us to the destination. Which, in all cases should be Jesus. THAT is the criteria by which to judge. Deuteronomy 13:1-3 states: "If there arises among you a prophet or a dreamer of dreams, and he gives you a sign or a wonder, "and the sign or the wonder comes to pass, =ÕIN, &€#€€‚‚‚‚‚‚‚‚‚ÿof which he spoke to you, saying, 'Let us go after other gods'-- which you have not known--' and let us serve them,' "you shall not listen to the words of that prophet or that dreamer of dreams, for the LORD your God is testing you to know whether you love the LORD your God with all your heart and with all your soul." The accuracy of a word, validity of a sign or anything else is not measured by whether it is an authentic miracle, but rather, if it glorifies Jesus. Can God give golden fillings to people's teeth? äÚK1€* "€É€€‚‚‚‚‚‚‚ÿAbsolutely. Can the enemy counterfeit? Quite probably. In the meetings being described, is the name of Jesus being lifted up? In the gospel being preached? Are people being provoked to deeper devotion to Jesus. Are they recovering their first love for the Lord? These are the real criteria. I would venture to say from group to group those criteria may be different. Lets not judge it by the phenomena itself but by the criteria of what theN1€Ò  signs and wonders are pointing to.¶ŒNç€* "€€€‚‚‚‚‚‚‚ÿ Jim Wies Website Click on the 'back' button to return to where you were.11€1-ÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿsÿÿÿÿ‡@Óç€Xƒm š€§€€†F€ÀC=*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV€€‚‚âït4õ‰‚âHu4õ‰ãN‰‚âGu4õ‰‚ÿHINDRANCES TO KNOWING YOUR SPIRITUAL GIFTS.(1) Not being Baptised in the Spirit . Seek prayer from mature, Spirit-Filled believer.(2) Not believing the Gifts are for today (Unbelief -due to wrong teaching, unbelieving spirits or the flesh). Seek prayer and meditate on Genesis 15:6 and also look back over LESSON FOUR: Moving Into Gifting.(3) Not really desiring the Gift enough. Meditate on 1 Corinthians 14:1 and ask the Lord for His gifts to You.Ð’(†> J€%€€âIu4õ‰ãN‰‚âJu4õ‰‚âKu4õ‰‚ÿ(4) Ignorance about the Gifts (1 Corinthians 12:1). Study again LESSON FOUR: Moving Into Gifting.Seek help from someone you know moves in the gifts properly.(5) Fear: Of what people think, of failure, of demonic counterfeit etc.. Seek prayer and claim 2 Timothy 1:7 in faith.(6) Over zealousness for the gifts, using them for Self-Glorification. Meditate on 1 Corinthains 14:12 - The Corinthains had this problem, magnifying the gift of Tongues above all others and using it as a badge of Spiritual Maturity. Paul gently rebuked them for this and exhorted them to be balanced in the use of the gifts with the right motive - to ENCOURAGE others.ìÅXƒ‡' €‹€€€‚ÿ(7) Spiritual Unreceptivity - may be due to (a) Demonic attack, (b) Lack of time with the Lord or (c) Disobedience (sin in your life). Check yourself in these areas and take appropriate action.1(†E‡1ñÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿtÿÿÿÿE‡ˆÀp‡ˆP p€à€€†F€ÀCéZ*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV‚‚‚€‚ÿ"Pursue love, and desire spiritual gifts, but especially that you may prophesy."1Corinthians 14:1 (NKJV)1E‡6ˆ1èÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿuÿÿÿÿ6ˆíˆ·gˆíˆP p€Î€€†F€ÀCQ`*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV‚‚‚€‚ÿ"And he believed in the LORD, and He accounted it to him for righteousness."Genesis 15:6 (NKJV)16ˆ‰1ïÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿvÿÿÿÿ‰܉Ÿníˆ܉P p€Ü€€†F€ÀCµd*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV‚‚‚€‚ÿ"Now concerning spiritual gifts, brethren, I do not want you to be ignorant:"1 Corinthians 12:1 (NKJV)1‰ Š1÷ÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿwÿÿÿÿ ŠӊÆv܉ӊP p€ì€€†F€ÀCùf*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV‚‚‚€‚ÿ"For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind."2 Timothy 1:7 (NKJV)1 Š‹1!ÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿxÿÿÿÿ‹ô‹ðŸÓŠô‹Q p€?€€†F€ÀC=i*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV‚‚‚€‚ÿ"Even so you, since you are zealous for spiritual gifts, let it be for the edification of the church that you seek to excel."1 Corinthians 14:12 (NKJV)1‹%Œ1Žÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿyÿÿÿÿ%ŒlšTô‹͎T v€©€€†F€ÀCk*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV€€‚‚‚‚ÿHINDRANCES TO REALIZING OUR GOD-GIVEN TALENTS(1) Not knowing what 'Natural Talent' means. Basically it refers to such natural abilities such as Singing, Playing a musical instrument, Drawing Cartoons etc..(2) Not believing such talents can or should be used by God. The Bible shows God moved through the natural abilities of people as they yielded it up to God. King David had the natural ability to use the sling and play the harp. He ended up with a huge and powerful army and plans for a huge worship center (The Temple). He knew the secret of moving in his God-given natural ability.«~%Œ„Á- (€ý€€‚ãN‰‚‚‚ÿYou will find God has 'equipped' you with just the right abilities in line with your vision and calling.(3) Having a low self-image. Fearfully hiding our talents (See The Parable of the Talents.) The one who hid his talents was fearful and afraid of taking r͎„Áô‹isks- the others had more and therefore received more.Ask the Lord for courage to step out and take risks for Him!(4) Self-Deception - you may be stepping out and moving in abilities you may not be naturally good at! Sometimes pride can deceive us and we become over-confident. Ask others you respect for an honest appraisal of your talents, receive the truth in humility.èÀ͎lÂ( €€€‚€‚ÿ(5) Skilled but not anointed! All talents must be offered to the Lord to be either taken away never to be trusted in again, or broken and blessed and given back to you with His anointing.8„Á€Â1è ÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿzÿÿÿÿ€ÂTÌTopic59Š5lÂ.ÅU x€k€€†F€ÀC5n*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+NEXT.WAV€ €‚‚‚‚‚ÿPARABLE OF THE TALENTS (Matthew 25:14-30)"For the kingdom of heaven is like a man traveling to a far country, who called his own servants and delivered his goods to them. And to one he gave five talents, to another two, and to another one, to each according to his own ability; and immediately he went on a journey. Then he who had received the five talents went and traded with them, and made another five talents. And likewise he who had received two gained two more also.But he who had received one went and dug in the ground, and hid his lord's money.ò€ÂGÈ' €å€€‚‚‚‚ÿAfter a long time the lord of those servants came and settled accounts with them.So he who had received five talents came and brought five other talents, saying, 'Lord, you delivered to me five talents; look, I have gained five more talents besides them.' His lord said to him, 'Well done, good and faithful servant; you were faithful over a few things, I will make you ruler over many things. Enter into the joy of your lord.'He also who had received two talents came and said, 'Lord, you delivered to me two talents; look, I have gained two more talents besides them.' His lord said to him, 'Well done, good and faithful servant; you have been faithful over a few things, I will make you ruler over many things. Enter into the joy of your lord.' U..ÅœÊ' €]€€‚‚‚‚ÿThen he who had received the one talent came and said, 'Lord, I knew you to be a hard man, reaping where you have not sown, and gathering where you have not scattered seed. 'And I was afraid, and went and hid your talent in the ground. Look, there you have what is yours.'But his lord answered and said to him, 'You wicked and lazy servant, you knew that I reap where I have not sown, and gather where I have not scattered seed.'So you ought to have deposited my money with the bankers, and at my coming I would have received back my own with interest.žŒGÈTÌ, &€€€‚‚‚‚‚‚‚‚‚ÿ'Therefore take the talent from him, and give it to him who has ten talents.'For to everyone who has, more will be given, and he will have abundance; but from him who does not have, even what he has will be taken away.'And cast the unprofitable servant into the outer darkness. There will be weeping and gnashing of teeth.'(NKJV)Click on the 'back' button to go back to where you were.1œÊ…Ì1ÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿ{ÿÿÿÿ…ÌVÀqTÌEÏO l€ã€€†F€ÀC%o*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV‚‚‚‚‚ÿ"When it was evening, His disciples came to Him, saying, "This is a deserted place, and the hour is already late. Send the multitudes away, that they may go into the villages and buy themselves food."But Jesus said to them, "They do not need to go away. You give them something to eat."And they said to Him, "We have here only five loaves and two fish."He said, "Bring them here to Me."Then He commanded the multitudes to sit down on the grass. And He took the five loaves and the two fish, and looking up to heaven, He blessed and broke and gave the loaves to the disciples; and the disciples gave to the multitudes.ׅÌV. *€¯€€‚‚€‚‚€‚ÿSo they all ate and were filled, and they took up twelve baskets full of the fragments that remained.Now those who had eaten were about fivEÏVTÌe thousand men, besides women and children."Matthew 14:15-21 (NKJV)1Eχ1óÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿ|ÿÿÿÿ‡IÂoVIS v€Þ€€†F€ÀC¥;*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV‚€‚‚€‚ÿ"Delight yourself also in the LORD, and He shall give you the desires of your heart."Pslam 37:4 (NKJV)1‡z1Pÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿ}ÿÿÿÿz™ÏI™P n€Ÿ€€†F€ÀC©r*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV‚‚€‚ÿWhen I was at school I felt a strong drawing to a half-chinese student who was facing racial hatred and bullying from others. We became good friends and this was definitely from God as there was no selfish motive involved. The Lord was simply revealing my innermost calling to work among the Chinese (his mother happened to come from Malaysia which is now where I minister much, living in Singapore).However, I also felt 'drawn' to a certain girl at school who was very understanding and caring , and attractive too! This doesn't mean I have a ministry to women!!!! If I analyse my motives in this they were totally selfish. Because I felt rejected by others and she was accepting me I was wrongly drawn to her.1zÊ1”ÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿ~ÿÿÿÿÊ-c ™-V z€€€†F€ÀC%v*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV€!€‚‚€‚ÿGUIDANCE BY CIRCUMSTANCESCircumstances should only confirm what the Lord is already saying to you (unless the circumstances force you into a certain pathway not previously considered). Don't let circumstances dictate what you should do (eg. Abraham and the famine - Abraham was not told by God to go to Egypt but he went as the circumstances seemed such that this seemed like the right thing to do. This led Abraham to have considerable difficulty between his wife and the king: he walked by sight and not by faith.)1Ê^1äÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿ^³c-P p€Æ€€†F€ÀCix*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV‚‚‚€‚ÿ"Commit your works to the LORD, and your thoughts will be established."Proverbs 16:3 (NKJV)1^B1aÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿ€ÿÿÿÿBr 6áx U x€Ã€€†F€ÀC­z*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV€€‚‚‚‚‚ÿGOAL SETTING(1) Goals are meant to move us in the direction God wants us to go. They are not ends in themselves.(2) The goal is a description of a desired future condition you want to achieve and needs to be stated in specific, concrete terms in such a way that can somehow be measured - numbers, time-line, percentages, certain conditions etc..(3) These must be faith-goals (from revelation) and there must be reality in them (must not be just a mathematical statement).úÒBr ( €¥€€‚€‚ÿBy preparing a worksheet for the goal, you will not only have suceeded in building a degree of measurability, but will also have prayerfully determined implementation procedures for carrying out that goal.1x £ 1ÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿ£ ÿ \r ÿ V |€€€†F€ÀCñ|*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV†"€#€‚ÿ1£ 0 1ÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿ‚ÿÿÿÿ0 @Qÿ Q p€€€†F€ÀCi*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV‚‚‚‚‚‚‚ÿSplit into group and go through the Vision planning sheet with the following scenario (each group using the same scenario):As a small team you have received a strong word from the Lord by quickened word, prophecy and a vision (from trusted servants of God) which agrees with the general sense in your spirits. The quickened word is from Isaiah 19:19The prophecy is "...my children, you are to be a pillar of strength in Egypt, holding up the way of righteousness and justice as you hold up holy hands."Žb0 @, &€Å€€‚‚‚‚‚€‚ÿThe vision is of a huge, strong pillar in a desert with the words TRAINING, WORSHIP and PRAYER engraved on it.Each team must take at least 30 minutes to go through the sheet and complete a planning/implementation sheet for EACH goal in EACH ministry area.Have a sharing back session to see how the teams agree/differ and have an eval@ÿ uation time.8S@1%ÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿƒS@­@VÃTopic60Z@­@T x€€€†F€ÀC‚*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+NEXT.WAV†"€'‚‚ÿ3S@àB- (€ €€‚€ €‚‚‚ÿPETER, SIMON The most prominent of Jesus' twelve apostles. The New Testament gives a more complete picture of Peter than of any other disciple, with the exception of Paul. Peter is often considered to be a big, blundering fisherman. But this is a shallow portrayal. The picture of his personality portrayed in the New Testament is rich and many sided. A more fitting appraisal of Peter is that he was a pioneer among the twelve apostles and the early church, breaking ground that the church would later follow.M"­@-F+ $€E€‚H€ƒ‚‚ƒ‚‚ÿThe First Apostle to be Called. Peter's given name was Symeon or Simon. His father's name was Jonah . Simon's brother, Andrew, also joined Jesus as a disciple . The family probably lived at Capernaum on the north shore of the Sea of Galilee , although it is possible they lived in Bethsaida .Peter was married, because the gospels mention that Jesus healed his mother-in-law . The apostle Paul later mentioned that Peter took his wife on his missionary travels <1 Cor. 9:5>. Peter and Andrew were fishermen on the Sea of Galilee, and perhaps in partnership with James and John, the sons of Zebedee . In the midst of his labor as a fisherman, Peter received a call from Jesus that changed his life .°…àBÝJ+ $€ €‚H€ƒ‚‚ƒ‚‚ÿThe Gospel of John reports that Andrew and Peter were disciples of John the Baptist before they joined Jesus. John also reports that Peter was introduced to Jesus by his brother Andrew, who had already recognized Jesus to be the Messiah . Whether Andrew and Peter knew Jesus because they were disciples of John is uncertain. But it is clear that they followed Jesus because of His distinctive authority.The First Among the Apostles. Jesus apparently gathered His followers in two stages: first as disciples (learners or apprentices), and later as apostles (commissioned representatives). Peter was the first disciple to be called and the first to be named an apostle . His name heads every list of the Twelve in the New Testament. He was apparently the strongest individual in the band. He frequently served as a spokesman for the disciples, and he was their recognized leader . Typical of Peter's dominant personality was his readiness to walk to Jesus on the water , and to ask Jesus the awkward question of how often he should forgive a sinning brother .^6-F;M( €m€‚H€ƒ‚‚ÿAn inner circle of three apostles existed among the Twelve. Peter was also the leader of this small group. The trio-- Peter, James, and John-- was present with Jesus on a number of occasions. They witnessed the raising of a young girl from the dead ; they were present at Jesus' transfiguration ; and they were present during Jesus' agony in Gethsemane . During Jesus' final week in Jerusalem, two of the three, Peter and John, were sent to make preparations for their last meal together .]2ÝJ€€+ $€e€‚H€ƒ‚‚ƒ‚‚ÿThe First Apostle to Recognize Jesus as Messiah. The purpose of Jesus' existence in the flesh was that people would come to a true picture of who God is and what He has done for man's salvation. The first apostle to recognize that was Peter. He confessed Jesus as Lord in the region of Caesarea Philippi .Jesus began the process which would lead to Peter's awareness by asking a non-threatening question, "Who do men say that I, the Son of Man, am?" . After the disciples voiced various rumors, Jesus put a more personal question to them, "But who do you say that I am?" . Peter confessed Jesus to be the Messiah, the ;M€€@Son of God. According to Matthew, it was because of this confession that Jesus renamed Simon, Cephas (in Aramaic) or Peter (in Greek), meaning "rock."|Q;M „+ $€£€‚H€ƒ‚‚ƒ‚‚ÿWhy Jesus called Simon a "rock" is not altogether clear. Peter's character was not always rock-like, as his denial of Jesus indicates. His new name probably referred to something that, by God's grace, he would become-- Peter, a rock.The First Apostle to Witness the Resurrection. How ironic that the one who denied Jesus most vehemently in His hour of suffering should be the first person to witness to His resurrection from the dead. Yet according to Luke and Paul <1 Cor. 15:5>, Peter was the first apostle to see the risen Lord. We can only marvel at the grace of God in granting such a blessing to one who did not seem to deserve it. Peter's witnessing of the resurrection was a sign of his personal restoration to fellowship with Christ. It also confirmed His appointment by God to serve as a leader in the emerging church.À•€€àˆ+ $€+ €‚H€ƒ‚‚ƒ‚‚ÿThe First Apostle to Proclaim Salvation to the Gentiles. The earliest information about the early church comes from the Book of Acts. This shows clearly that Peter continued to exercise a key leadership role in the church for a number of years. Indeed, the first 11 chapters of Acts are built around the activity of the apostle Peter.When the Holy Spirit visited the church in Samaria, the apostles sent Peter and John to verify its authenticity . But this event was only a prelude to the one event which concluded Peter's story in the New Testament: the preaching of the gospel to the Gentiles . The chain of events that happened before the bestowal of the Holy Spirit on Gentile believers-- beginning with Peter's staying in the house of a man of "unclean" profession , continuing with his vision of "unclean" foods , and climaxing in his realization that no human being, Gentile included, ought to be considered "unclean" -- is a masterpiece of storytelling. It demonstrates the triumph of God's grace to bring about change in stubborn hearts and the hardened social customs of Jewish believers.è „óŒ+ $€Ñ€‚H€ƒ‚‚ƒ‚‚ÿFollowing the death of James, the brother of John, and Peter's miraculous release from prison , Peter drops out of the narrative of Acts. Luke reports that he "went to another place" . We know, however, that Peter did not drop out of active service in the early church.Peter probably broadened his ministry, once the mantle of leadership of the Jerusalem church fell from his shoulders to those of James, the Lord's brother. Peter played a key role at the Council of Jerusalem , which decided in favor of granting church membership to Gentiles without first requiring them to become Jews. Paul mentioned a visit of Peter to Antioch of Syria , and he may even refer to a mission of Peter to Corinth <1 Cor. 1:12>. Peter dropped into the background in the Book of Acts not because his ministry ended. Luke, the writer of Acts, simply began to trace the course of the gospel's spread to Gentile Rome through the ministry of the apostle Paul.êàˆ( €Õ€‚H€ƒ‚‚ÿPeter in Rome: The First to Inspire the Writing of a Gospel. According to early Christian tradition, Peter went to Rome, where he died. Only once in the New Testament do we hear of Peter's being in Rome. Even in this case, Rome is referred to as "Babylon" <1 Pet. 5:13>. Little is known of Peter's activities in Rome, although Papias, writing about A. D. 125, stated that Peter's preaching inspired the writing of the first gospel, drafted by Mark, who was Peter's interpreter in Rome.€UóŒ‘Â+ $€«€‚H€ƒ‚‚ƒ‚‚ÿThis early and generally reliable tradition supports the pioneer role played by Peter throughout his life and ministry. A number of other works-the Preaching of Peter, the Gospel of Peter, the Apocalypse o‘Â@f Peter, the Acts of Peter, and the Epistle of Peter to James-- are apocryphal in nature. They cannot be accepted as trustworthy sources of information for the life and thought of the apostle.Peter the First Pope? Whether Peter was the first pope of Rome is a question which can be answered by a study of church history, not by the New Testament. Jesus' statement to Peter in , "You are Peter ('petros' - little rock) , and on this rock ('petra' - big rock = Revelation Of Christ the King) I will build My church," does not mention papal succession. But it does emphasize Peter's prominent role in the founding of the church.ŚVÃ+ $€5€‚H€‚‚‚‚‚‚ÿ(from Nelson's Illustrated Bible Dictionary)(Copyright (C) 1986, Thomas Nelson Publishers)Click on the 'back' button to go back to where you were.1‘‡Ã1ÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿ„ÿÿÿÿ‡Ã\ÊŽVÃŽÅS t€i€€†F€ÀCZ*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV€‚€‚‚ÿTHEOCRACY [the OCK rih see]-- direct government of the nation of Israel by God Himself or His earthly representatives. Although theocracy is not a biblical word, the concept of God's rule on earth is thoroughly biblical. In a theocracy human rulers interpret and carry out the divine ruler's will. In Israel's early days God ruled through men such as Moses, Aaron, and Joshua. Later, He ruled by using a group called the judges.ú‡Ã¬Ç$ €õ€€‚ÿ allows for an Israelite monarchy under God and in cooperation with other ruling officials. Later, when Israel finally demanded a king, it was their attitude of being "like all the nations" rather than the request itself that God considered a rejection of His kingship <1 Sam. 8:5>. Samuel, the last judge and a great prophet, insisted that having an earthly king did not excuse Israel from obedience to the divine king <1 Sam. 12:1-25>. The human king was not an absolute monarch.*ŽÅÖÉ% € €€‚‚ÿAfter the return from the Babylonian Captivity (about 539 B. C.), the priest became a more important agent of God's rule. Prophets such as Zechariah and Haggai mention the high priest as a ruler . Apparently some Jews expected the Messiah to exercise priestly as well as kingly functions .One of the purposes of the New Testament is to show God's kingly rule reestablished in Jesus Christ, the Prophet, Priest, and King appointed by God .†`¬Ç\Ê& €À€€‚‚‚‚ÿ(from Nelson's Illustrated Bible Dictionary)(Copyright (C) 1986, Thomas Nelson Publishers)8ÖÉ”Ê1± ÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿ…ÿÿÿÿ”ÊmTopic61[\ÊïËS t€€€†F€ÀCña*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+NEXT.WAV€ €‚‚‚ÿMILLENNIUM, THE The thousand-year period mentioned in connection with the description of Christ's coming to reign with His saints over the earth . Many Old Testament passages refer to the millennium .º’”Ê©Î( €%€‚H€ƒ‚‚ÿThese and many other Old Testament passages are often taken to refer only to the thousand-year period itself. However, it is often difficult in these passages to see a clear dividing line between the earthly period of the millennium and the eternal state of new heavens and earth. Therefore, it is best to let one's teaching about the millennium be drawn specifically from the words in . The other great promises to Israel, while they have a temporary fulfillment in the thousand years, still await the fulness of the new heavens and new earth and the unhindered presence of Israel's king and the church's husband-- Jesus Christ our Lord.3 ïËè( €€‚H€ƒ‚‚ÿDuring that thousand-year period, Satan will be bound in the bottomless pit so he will not deceive the nations until his short period of release . The faithful martyrs who have died for the cause of Christ will be resurrected before the millennium. They will rule with Christ and will ©Îè\Êbe priests of God and Christ . The unbelieving dead will wait for the second resurrection . After the thousand years, Satan will be released and will resume his work of deceit .0©Î( €€‚H€ƒ‚‚ÿThe most important aspect of the millennium is the reign of Christ. Peter taught that Christ now rules from the right hand of God . That rule will last until His enemies are made His footstool . The apostle Paul also understood Christ to be presently reigning in a period designed to bring all of God's enemies underfoot <1 Cor. 15:25-27>. Thus the impact of Christ's present rule over the earth from God's right hand must not be seen as unrelated to His future reign during the millennium.¡vè¹+ $€í€‚H€ƒ‚‚ƒ‚‚ÿThe millennium is viewed by interpreters in several different ways. One position holds that the millennium only refers to Christ's spiritual rule today from heaven. This symbolic view is known as the amillennial interpretation. Another position views Christ's spiritual rule as working through preaching and teaching to bring gradual world improvement leading up to Christ's return. This is the postmillennial view.The position that holds to an actual thousandyear period in the future is known as the premillennial view. This interpretation does not diminish the power of Christ's present rule from heaven or limit that rule to the church only. That position sees the need for a thousand-year place in history for an earthly fulfillment of Israel's promises of land and blessing. It stresses that the one thousand years in are actual years and are not symbolic.Ž‰m+ $€€‚H€‚‚‚‚‚‚ÿ(from Nelson's Illustrated Bible Dictionary)(Copyright (C) 1986, Thomas Nelson Publishers)Click on the 'back' button to continue.1¹ž12ÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿ†ÿÿÿÿžŸ©mŸX ~€S€‚H€†F€ÀC¥;*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV‚ƒ‚‚€‚€‚ÿGen 3:1515And I will put enmity between you and the woman, and between your seed and her Seed; he shall bruise your head, and you shall bruise His heel."(NKJ)1žÐ1)ÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿ‡ÿÿÿÿÐÈ ø ŸÈ X ~€A€‚H€†F€ÀCf*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV‚ƒ‚€‚‚€‚ÿExod 19:66'And you shall be to Me a kingdom of priests and a holy nation.' These are the words which you shall speak to the children of Israel."(NKJ)1Ðù 1ñÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿˆÿÿÿÿù ¹ ÀiÈ ¹ W ~€Ò€‚H€†F€ÀCai*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV‚ƒ‚‚€‚€‚ÿMatt 1:11The book of the genealogy of Jesus Christ, the Son of David, the Son of Abraham:(NKJ)1ù ê 1`ÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿ‰ÿÿÿÿê  /×¹  X ~€¯€‚H€†F€ÀC¥k*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV‚ƒ‚€‚‚€‚ÿ1 Pet 2:99But you are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, His own special people, that you may proclaim the praises of Him who called you out of darkness into His marvelous light;(NKJ)1ê J 1kÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿŠÿÿÿÿJ „ :â „ X ~€Å€‚H€†F€ÀCém*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV‚ƒ‚€‚‚€‚ÿRev 11:1515Then the seventh angel sounded: And there were loud voices in heaven, saying, "The kingdoms of this world have become the kingdoms of our Lord and of His Christ, and He shall reign forever and ever!"(NKJ)1J µ 1Aÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿ‹ÿÿÿÿµ Åž„ ÅX ~€q€‚H€†F€ÀC-p*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV‚ƒ‚€‚‚€‚ÿ1Thes 4:1717Then we who are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air. And thus we shall always be with the Lord.(NKJ)1µ ö1nÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿŒÿÿÿÿö>B;êÅ=AQ p€Õ€‚H€†F€ÀCqr*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV‚ƒ‚ƒ‚ÿRev 20:4-64And I saw thrones, and they sat on them, and judgment was committed to them. Then I saw the souls of those who had been beheaded for their witness to Jesus and for the woö=AÅrd of God, who had not worshiped the beast or his image, and had not received his mark on their foreheads or on their hands. And they lived and reigned with Christ for a thousand years.5But the rest of the dead did not live again until the thousand years were finished. This is the first resurrection.Ñö>B0 .€£€‚H€ƒ‚‚€‚€‚ÿ6Blessed and holy is he who has part in the first resurrection. Over such the second death has no power, but they shall be priests of God and of Christ, and shall reign with Him a thousand years.(NKJ)1=AoB1>ÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿoB|F¿>BDS t€€‚H€†F€ÀCµt*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV‚ƒ‚ƒ‚ƒ‚ÿMark 14:3-93And being in Bethany at the house of Simon the leper, as He sat at the table, a woman came having an alabaster flask of very costly oil of spikenard. Then she broke the flask and poured it on His head.4But there were some who were indignant among themselves, and said, "Why was this fragrant oil wasted?5"For it might have been sold for more than three hundred denarii and given to the poor." And they criticized her sharply.ûÅoB|F6 :€‹€‚H€ƒ‚ƒ‚ƒ‚ƒ‚‚€‚€‚ÿ6But Jesus said, "Let her alone. Why do you trouble her? She has done a good work for Me.7"For you have the poor with you always, and whenever you wish you may do them good; but Me you do not have always.8"She has done what she could. She has come beforehand to anoint My body for burial.9"Assuredly, I say to you, wherever this gospel is preached in the whole world, what this woman has done will also be told as a memorial to her."(NKJ)1D­F1zÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿŽÿÿÿÿ­FöH»|FœHU x€w€‚H€†F€ÀC-w*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV‚ƒ‚ƒ‚ƒ‚ƒ‚ÿEph 6:5-85Bondservants, be obedient to those who are your masters according to the flesh, with fear and trembling, in sincerity of heart, as to Christ;6not with eyeservice, as men-pleasers, but as bondservants of Christ, doing the will of God from the heart,7with good will doing service, as to the Lord, and not to men,8knowing that whatever good anyone does, he will receive the same from the Lord, whether he is a slave or free.9 ­FöH- *€€‚H€€‚‚€‚ÿ(NKJ)1œH'I1ÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿ'IKêŽöHK\ †€€‚H€†F€ÀC¥y*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV‚ƒ‚ƒ‚ƒ‚€‚‚€‚ÿJames 4:13-1513Come now, you who say, "Today or tomorrow we will go to such and such a city, spend a year there, buy and sell, and make a profit";14whereas you do not know what will happen tomorrow. For what is your life? It is even a vapor that appears for a little time and then vanishes away.15Instead you ought to say, "If the Lord wills, we shall live and do this or that."(NKJ)1'IBK1ÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿBKžK\KžKV |€€€†F€ÀC|*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV†"€)€‚ÿ1BKÏK1'ÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿ‘ÿÿÿÿÏKÅLöŠžKÅLP n€M€€†F€ÀCa~*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV‚‚€‚ÿBeware in your prayer, above everything, of limiting God, not only by unbelief, but also by fancying that you know what He can do. ANDREW MURRAY (1828 - 1917)1ÏKöL1rÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿ’ÿÿÿÿöL‚?íÅL5OR r€Û€€†F€ÀC¥€*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV‚‚‚‚‚‚‚‚ÿWe should have faith enough to believe that the present trouble, about which we are praying, is sent to us in love by God. We should pray concerning our trials in this way"Lord, I have this thorn in the flesh. I beseech you, deliver me from it, but meanwhile I bless you for it; for though I do not understand the why or the wherefore of it, I am persuaded there is love within it. Therefore, while I ask you to remove it, so far as it seems evil to me, yet wherein it may to your %ùöLf, &€ó€€‚‚‚‚‚‚‚‚‚ÿbetter knowledge work for my good, I bless you for it, and I am content to endure it so long as you see fit." Is not that a sweet way of praying? "Lord, I 5OfÅLam in need, be pleased to supply me; but, meanwhile, if you do not, I believe it is better for me to be in need, and so I praise you for my necessity while I ask you to supply it. I glory in my infirmity, even while I ask you to overcome it. I bless you for my affliction even while I ask you to help me in it and to rescue me out of it." ³†5O‚- (€ €€‚‚‚‚‚‚€‚ÿThis is a royal way of praying.Such an amalgam of prayer and thanksgiving is more precious than the gold of Ophir.- Spurgeon8fQ‚1öÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿ“ÿÿÿÿQ‚ŠTopic62Š‚S„\ †€M€€†F€ÀCYƒ*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+NEXT.WAV€ €‚‚‚‚‚‚‚‚‚‚‚‚ÿThe Diary of a BibleJANUARY 15 - I've been resting quietly for a week. The first few nightsafter New year's Day my owner read me regularly. But now I guess I've beenforgotten.FEBRUARY 24 - I got out to Sunday School today and my owner used me forfamily devotions.APRIL 10 - I was dusted today and put on the center table in the livingroom. Special company was here, but now I'm back on the shelf again.ëQ‚n†0 .€×€‚H€ƒ‚‚‚‚‚‚‚‚‚‚ÿMAY 12 - Busy day. My owner had to lead a lesson at church. Had quite atime finding me, and then hunted and hunted to find the texts he needed. JUNE 5 - I'm in grandma's lap. She's here on a visit. She let a tear fallon Colossians 2:5- 7 when Paul praised the believers for living in Jesus.JUNE 9 - In grandma's lap again. I've been here every day. It is such acomfort to be appreciated and loved.JUNE 10 - Grandma is gone and I'm back in the same old place. She kissed me"ìS„ˆ6 :€Ù€‚H€‚‚‚‚‚‚‚‚‚‚‚‚‚‚‚ƒ‚ÿbefore she left.JULY 4 - Had a couple of 4-leaf clovers stuck in me today.AUGUST 1 - Packed in a suitcase with clothes. Off on a vacation, I guess.AUGUST 7 - Still in the suitcase.AUGUST 15 - Home again and on the shelf. Not sure why he took me along.OCTOBER 18 - Pastor visited today, so I was put on the center table in theliving room.NOVEMBER 10 - Was brought to church today and held up to be counted.DECEMBER 16 - Dusted off today but not opened. Wish grandma wouldNn†Š1 0€€‚H€‚‚‚‚‚‚ƒ‚‚‚‚‚ÿcome and visit again.DECEMBER 31 - Today I was used at the dinner table. Each member of thefamily was blindfolded in turn and put a finger on a "good luck" verse forthe new year. Everyone was quiet when my owner's finger landed on Hosea4:6.(Inspirational submitted by: Tom Young)Click on the 'back' button to continue.1ˆ@Š1Ïÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿ”ÿÿÿÿ@Šގz.ŠºŒL f€]€€†F€ÀCI„*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV‚‚ÿ'Regular' missions is going cross-culturally but working with those from already reached people groups (they have a viable church within the group) whereas 'Frontier' mission is going cross-culturally and working in an unreached people group (with no viable church within the group run by indigenous leadership).The 'Frontier' missionary is the more strategic calling as it is directly related to the Second-coming of Christ (Matthew 24:14) - we can expect a inflood of Christians called to 'Frontier' mission as the Second Coming of Christ approaches.$ü@Šގ( €ù€€‚€‚ÿExpat Missionaries in 'Regular' missions should strategically be used to release an indigenous missions movement in the reached people group they minister and not focus on planting churches themselves but favilitating the locals to do so.The main focus of a 'Frontier' missionary is to see the first indigenous church planted which they can partner with until full autonomy, moving on as the Apostolic mantle leads. This may take time as the language has to be aquired and speicalist training is needed.1ºŒ1Ôÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿ•ÿÿÿÿ}Àbގ}ÀN j€)€€†F€ÀCUŠ*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV€‚ÿA strategic approach to missions which is being given increasing importance today is the 'Nonresidwntial Missionary'. This is a person who resides outside the pr}Àގimary geofraphic region of the target group but carries out a number of focused activities to reach the group.1®À14ÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿ–ÿÿÿÿ®À±ÂŽ}À±ÂO l€i€€†F€ÀCZ*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV‚€‚ÿThese people stir other Christians to active concern for reaching the world by coordinating efforts among senders, the local church, snding agencies, and the missionaries on the field (networkers and trainers).These people may never have been in a long-term missions role but have a strong vision and understanding of God's mission. They are 'bridge people' as they form the bridge between the Loacal Church and Missions agencies.1®ÀâÂ1ûÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿ—ÿÿÿÿâ¬Ç9í±ÂÆL f€Û€€†F€ÀCé_*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV‚‚ÿHistorically, tentmakers are missions-committed Christian who, like Paul, support themselves in secular work, as they engage in cross-cultural ministry on the job in their free-time.Whereas 'Tentmaking' is merely a financial support for the mission work of the missionary, in Business for Mission the Business is the Mission. The whole business is designed under Biblical Principles to show forth God's righteousness and justice and provide an environment where unreached peoples may be redeemed in the whole being - providing Discipleship training, bringing them to Christ and forming Church plants and also restoring the dignity of the poor or outcast groups in the society (eg. a business providing work and discipleship for ex-prostitutes).‘bâ¬Ç/ ,€Å€€‚‚â}4õ‰€‚ÿThis latter vision is starting to grip many businessmen and may be a key strategy in the very near future - particularly in the more developed countries on South East Asia where Chinese Businessmen and women particularly have a strong gifting in this area. (Prophetically this ministry can be described as robbing the Harlot to clothe the Bride).1ÆÝÇ1ÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿ˜ÿÿÿÿÝǬÌT¬Ç1ÊS t€€‚H€†F€ÀCáb*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV‚ƒ‚ƒ‚ƒ‚ÿRev 17:3-53So he carried me away in the Spirit into the wilderness. And I saw a woman sitting on a scarlet beast which was full of names of blasphemy, having seven heads and ten horns.4The woman was arrayed in purple and scarlet, and adorned with gold and precious stones and pearls, having in her hand a golden cup full of abominations and the filthiness of her fornication.5And on her forehead a name was written: MYSTERY, BABYLON THE GREAT, THE MOTHER OF HARLOTS AND OF THE ABOMINATIONS OF THE EARTH.JÝÇ{Ì. *€9€‚H€‚ƒ‚‚‚‚‚ƒ‚ÿRev 17:1515Then he said to me, "The waters which you saw, where the harlot sits, are peoples, multitudes, nations, and tongues.The harlot is Babylon which represents the world's commerce/political system. She is adorned with what rightfully should be on the Bride - the New Jerusalem, foreshadowed by the Church. We are to redeem every tongue,tribe and nation from the corruptions of babylon.Rev 21:22Then I, John, saw the holy city, New Jerusalem, coming down out of heaven from God, prepared as a bride adorned for her husband.1 1ʬÌ' €€‚H€‚‚‚ÿ(NKJ)1{ÌÝÌ1Zÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿ™ÿÿÿÿÝÌÏ)جÌÏQ p€±€€†F€ÀC͌*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV‚‚‚‚‚‚‚ÿSenders have two main ingredients:(1) Generosity - They strive to resist the lifestyle of the world by giving of finance and time in research and supplies (backup to field workers).(2) Intercession - Prayer flows out of giving (Matthew 6:21) -this can be a fulltime ministry in itself as one commits themselves to mobilize and lead intercessors or be part of an intercession team for the nations.Senders are of critical importance in their behind-the-scenes role8ÝÌ>Ï1.ÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿš>ÏÀÏ‚‰Topic63‚5ÏÀÏM j€j€€†F€ÀC*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+NEXT.WAV€ ‚ÿGod's Prophetic Westward Thrust Through History.å>Ïã2 2€Ë€€‚‚‚‚€€‚‚‚‚‚ÿ ÀÏãÏ This article is adapted from Peter Tsukahira's message for today's church.(1) INTRODUCTION: Reaching The Unreached. In order to fully understand our strategic part in God's plans today it is imperative that we understand His prophetic workings through history (HIS Story). Our lives must be strategic to really enter fully into His plan for us and we need to see His Big Picture also in an historical sense. God's plan has always been to see an earth full of people bearing His image, ruling and reigning with Him in His Kingdom. We have seen that we are in the time when His kingdom has been striking back, and the earth is being prepared for the Messiah's second coming to rule and reign on earth with His Saints. We also saw how Israel largely failed in filling the earth with His redeemed people (although they were used to 'set the scene' by being forcibly scattered to all corners of the earth and they still are central to God's plan). kÀÏs% €×€€‚‚ÿThe New Testament shows how Jesus trained the Disciples to be a missionary people, and indeed the early Church did start to accomplish God's purpose of 'reaching the unreached' and extending His Kingdom into the hearts of those who had never heard before. The Apostle Paul first set God's precendent for the Church to be strategically 'reaching the unreached' (see Romans 15:20) because this best outworks God's 'Big Picture' - His destination will be reached , according to Matthew 24:14, when every people group (ethno-linguistic group) of earth has a dynamic, indigenous testimony of the Gospel in it's midst. ]6ãÐ' €m€€‚‚‚‚ÿKnowing this we must realize that our lives must be aligned strategically in accordance with God's overall plan for the earth. Our specific calling will be in this context and so our lives must contribute specifically to God's end-time thrust of reaching the unreached for Jesus, whether we go or stay! We must also see that God's plan is a general westward sweep of the Gospel through modern history which is now at a particualr stage. Understanding our part in this is also vitally important. Let us now look at this westward sweep in New Testament history. ßšs¯ 7 <€Q€€‚€€‚‚€€‚‚‚‚‚ÿ(2) The General Westward Sweep Of The Gospel. (i) God's Dealing With The Apostle Paul And Team. If we look specifically at God's leading of Paul and his missionary team we will see an unveiling of God's plan for the Gospel to proceed westward from Israel. Paul's missionary journeys are focused upon in the book of Acts almost exclusively as they are representative of God the Holy Spirit's mission vision. Paul's first missions trip is an exploratory one setting the scene for his second and subsequent trips. His second missionary journey is very interesting as it show the Holy Spirit's specific and implicit guidance of the early Church's missionary expansion. V/Ð' €_€€‚‚‚‚ÿIn Acts 16:6-9 we see that Paul and his team were in Galatia and tried to go east into the Roman Province of Asia. But they were forbidden by the Holy Spirit to do this as this was not in His Divine timing. Again, as they travelled west, they tried to go north into Bithynia from Mysia but they were forbidden by the Spirit. Instead they were led all the way to the westernmost point of the continent of Asia - to Troas. It was here that Paul received the vision of a Macedonian man (Acts 16:9-10) imploring them to cross the sea to Macedonia (in modern day region of Greece). This is significant as Macedonia is in a completely different continent - Europe. The Holy Spirit was revealing to Paul and His team that the 'highway of holiness' for them to tread on and see the early Church expand, was westward. E¯ VA+ $€5€€‚â}{4õ‰‚ÿOn Paul's third mission trip, after having returned to Jerusalem, we see Paul had understood the heart of the Father to launch out westward as he immediately went west to strengthen the existing baby churchVAÏes. His fourth mission trip (involuntarily taken as a prisoner) sees the gospel spread all the way west to Italy (Rome), indeed Paul's eyes were set beyond there as far as Spain - Romans 15:24 - (western most point of Europe) - Click here to see the map and trace God's westward guidance throughout Paul's missionary trips. œeòC7 <€Ë€€‚‚€€‚‚€€‚‚‚‚ÿ(ii) God's Dealings With The Church Through The Centuries. (a) Europe: The Church continued to be spread westward into Europe through the early centuries. This was the fullness of time for the Gospel to be revealed in Europe from the time when Lydia, a Gentile European in Phillipi first believed the Messianic Jew, Paul. Civilizations based on Christianity were built up in Greeceand then in Rome (after three centuries of battling and much martyrdom). The blood of the martyrs indeed bacame the seed of the Church of Rome which became christianized in the third century under Emporer Constantine. ãVAúE% €Ç€€‚‚ÿThen the Barbarians arose to conquer the might of Rome. They conquered Rome but also the Gospel conquered them and Christianity again advanced westward (the 'Barbarians' came from areas that are modern day Western Europe such as Switzerland, France and England). God's blessings fell on these nations and they advanced far ahead in wealth, art, technology and science as a revelation of God is the source of these blessings (this is most marked in the Jewish people themselves). ÝŠòC×H7 <€M€€‚â~{4õ‰‚‚€€‚‚‚‚‚ÿClick here to see the map showing the gradual advance of the Gospel westward to cover all of Europe..(b) America - Go West Young Man! However, Europe bacame too confined. New moves of the Holy Spirit sprang up and problems emerged as the Church resisted the Holy Spirit. Therefore people started looking for a new place to go - this was to the west, to the New World we know as America. The early Pilgrim Fathers went seeking freedom. They wanted to worship Jesus freely with a constitution based on the Bible. God blessed this nation over 300 years to become a great nation spreading wealth and revival (atleast five great waves of revival) throughout the earth. êúEïJ. *€Õ€€‚‚€€‚‚‚ÿBut America is losing this greatness and is no longer seen as 'good' (morally) so the Gospel moves on again WESTWARD. West from America is.... (c) Asia..Now Is Your Kairos Time! .....ASIA! Now Asia (initially East Asia) is arising and a growing Church continues to grow fast. In Seol, Korea, there are now the biggest Presbyterian, Methodist and Assembly Of God churches (which all originated in the west) in the world and many Mega Churches are rising up all over East Asia.Thisğ×H³K% €?€€‚‚ÿgrowth has only occured since the 1950's, within the last generation. Europe had 18 centuries of greatness, America 3 centuries, Asia will have how long ? 0ïJãK, (€ €€†"€-‚ÿø³KN' €ñ€€‚‚‚‚ÿLook where the wave of the Gospel's westward sweep continues - across the 10/40 window all the way BACK TO JERUSALEM! Jerusalem is the finishing line - Jerusalem lays the foundation and we bring in the harvest! Prophetically we are in Asia's Kairos moment for missions. Europe and America had their key times in missionary expansion as pioneers but now it is Asia's time. Now (1999) there are more Asian missionaries worldwide than Western ones and they are increasing at an amazing speed. Western)ûãK7€. *€÷€€‚‚‚‚€€‚ÿmissions still has a strategic role to play (especially in envisioning and equipping asian church for missions). As God raises up Asian Christians where do you think will be the focus of their calling ? That's right! To the west of where they are (please note this is prophetic and doesn't exclude God's calling leading them elsewhere) - this means the focus of the Church is East Asia today should be to reach the unreached in West Asia and the Middle East. N7€Ï(3) CONCLUSION: The Prophetic Highway. ïÉN&‚& €“€€‚‚‚ÿWe have seen that the Lord has been leading the Church to expand His Kingdom ever westward from Israel and ultimately all the way back again to Israel..wrapping up His purposes for this age. Throughout history there has been a PROPHETIC HIGHWAY OF HOLINESS the church is to follow , preparing the way for the King of Kings, King Jesus - His glory will sweep along this highway ,as it has already, all the way back to Jerusalem and through her gates. 07€V‚, (€ €€†"€‚ÿhA&‚Ÿ†' €ƒ€€‚‚‚‚ÿThere is a prophetic highway from Asia all the way to Jerusalem and this highway will be filled with born again believers from each nation on that Highway! How will they hear unless someone is sent to them to speak, in their own language, the Gospel message ? The Asian Church must be mobilized to reach the unreached or it will not enter into God's End-Time plan! The Western Church must be a servant in facilitating this.When Jesus returns in power and glory the Bible says His feet will land on the Mount of Olives (Zechariah 14:4) and He will proceed as the King of Kings through the EASTERN gate of Jerusalem (The Golden Gate or Gate Beautiful). This gate was blocked in by Saladin and a graveyard put infront of it. This way will be unblocked when the prophetic highway reaches it and Jesus will walk triumphantly through it into the New Temple. It is significant that in Ezekiel 43:2 it says "The Glory of the God of Israel came from the way (Hebrew - 'Derek' - Highway) of the east..." into the New Temple which will be rebuilt just before the unveiling of the Antichrist. 1 V‚ïˆ% €€€‚‚ÿThe highway is a way of salvation through Christ for hundreds of millions. As the times of the Gentiles closes the highway will be built closer and closer to Israel until the time comes when Jeshua the messiah of Israel comes to Jerusalem and all Israel will be saved (Romans 11:25-26) as they look upon Him whom they have pierced (Zechariah 12:10-14). This will usher in the millenial Kingdom and we will enter into the fullness of our inheritance in Christ (as much as we have been faithful to His call on our lives). “kŸ†‚‰( €Ö€€‚‚‚‚‚‚ÿCome quickly Lord Jesus! Even so , come! Please click on the back button to continue the teaching. 1‰1ÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿ›ÿÿÿÿ³‰Š\‚‰ŠV |€€€†F€ÀC¥;*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV†"€"€‚ÿ1³‰@Š1ÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿœÿÿÿÿ@ŠœŠ\ŠœŠV |€€€†F€ÀCYe*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV†"€,€‚ÿ8@ŠԊ1\ÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿԊE‹ÌTopic64q$œŠE‹M j€H€€†F€ÀCuh*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+NEXT.WAV€ ‚ÿLESSON 6: Communicating Vision.£nԊè5 8€Ý€€‚€ €‚‚âg4õ‰‚‚‚ÿ(1) Introduction:The previous lesson have been geared around the purpose of determining what your God-given vision and calling is. Having an understanding of that vision and calling will add the responsibility of having to communicate that vision to draw others to run with you in that vision (See Habakkuk 2:2).This lesson will lay foundational principles of how to effectively communicate the vision God has given you so as to mobilize others for involvement. Also it will act as a conclusion and a consolidation of this whole material, helping you launch forth effectively into God's will for your life.... ØE‹ À5 8€±€€‚€ €‚‚€€‚‚‚ÿ(2) Lessons From Nehemiah.(i) The Challenge Before Nehemiah...The life of Nehemiah is an excellent case study on the topic of Vision and Calling - particularly in seeing how he communicated his vision effectively to see people 'catch it' and work to help fulfil his 'bigger than self' Vision (you would have realised by now that waht God calls us to is too big for us to handle! We must trust in His strength but also in those He calls to be involved with us).è ÀœŠ²‚荟Â0 .€€€‚‚‚€€‚‚‚‚ÿIn learning from Nehemiah it is good to look at the background of the story...Group or Individual activity: Read together Nehemiah Chapters 1 and 2. Go around the group asking each person to say ONE thing that struck them about Nehemiah and the Vision God gave him.The Background of the Story....In 586BC, King Nebuchadnezzar had destroyed Jerusalem and taken the Jewish princes into captivity. However, just as the Lord had promised, the Babylonian Empire had collapsed, and the victorious Persians allowed God's people to return to their country. But although they had been back for nearly 100 years, Jerusalem remained in ruins.é ÀÛÄ4 6€Ó€€‚€‚‚‚‚€€‚‚‚ÿTHIS PRESENTED A CHALLENGE!Nehemiah was still in Persia, in the responsible position of 'cup-bearer to the king'.Group or Individual activity: Ask each person to say one challenge they see in the world today. Ask them how they can tell if God is asking them to meet this challenge in any way or not. Discuss.Now you can explore how Nehemiah took the challenge he was presented with before the Lord and the outworking of that vision...go through the following links IN ORDER...(ÒŸÂÇV z€¥€€‚ãIN€‰‚ãJN‰‚ãKN‰€‚‚€€‚‚‚âƒ{4õ‰â„{4õ‰‚ÿ(ii) The Man And His Vision.(iii) Recognizing And Seizing God-Given Opportunities.(iv) Communicating The Vision.(iv) Persevering In The Vision.Nehemiah persevered in the face of adversity.A good leader does not give up when things are difficult. Nehemiah was persecuted from within the city and from without, but was able to maintain his vision, energy and devotion to the task (see Luke 9:62) - there was no flagging (See Nehemiah 4:16-18).˟ÛÄÎÇ, &€?€€‚€€‚‚ÿGroup or Individual Activity: Look at the following chart and note the different types of opposition Nehemiah faced. Discuss each point giving examples.0ÇþÇ, (€ €€†"€!‚ÿY$ÎÇWÊ5 8€I€€‚‚‚€ €‚‚â©{4õ‰‚ÿIn your work are you prepared to persevere to the end ?(3) Conclusion: The Results Of The Vision.Against all odds, what had not been done in 100 years was achieved in 52 days, and all the people were joyful and amazed and came to meet before God, to thank Him. As a result of Nehemiah's work, there came a GREAT SPIRITUAL REVIVAL (Nehemiah 8:1,5,6;9:3). The revival put in motion deep social reforms and brought a blessing for God's people. All because one man heard God's voice and committed himself to serve Him with all his strength.¹eþÇÌT v€Ë€€‚‚‚ÈEF(`bigpic26.htm',`',1)€‰€‚‚‚‚‚ãŸN‰‚ÿDo you want to follow Nehemiah's example ?Click here to access the Self-Assessment test for this lesson - this will help you make sure you took to heart the main points.Pause now , at the end of this course, to pray and commit all you have learnt to the Lord. Ask Him to help you outwork what the Lord has been showing you.Some Final Words.8WÊHÌ1–ÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿžH̶ÌATopic65n!̶ÌM j€B€€†F€ÀCñZ*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+NEXT.WAV€ ‚ÿ(ii) The Man And His Vision.e.HÌÏ7 <€]€€‚‚‚€‚€‚‚‚€€‚ÿNehemiah's relative, Hanani, came to visit him with some news/ information of the CHALLENGE.... "Those who survived the exile and are back in the province are in great trouble and disgrace. The walls of Jerusalem are broken down and the gates have been burned with fire."On hearing the news he was shocked and wept bitterly, wore mourning , fasted and prayed to God.Group or Individual Activity: List out the lessons and principles we learn from Nehemiah's response. How do we know God's calling for him was to rebuild the walls of Jerusalem ?ѶÌ-5 8€£€€‚€€‚‚‚‚€€‚ÿ(a) Nehemiah Identified Himself With God's Work.Many others also knew of the disastrous state of Jerusalem, but Nehemiah was the one who took it to heart, felt ashamed ofÏ-Ì the situation, and prepared to do something about it. This was a GOD-GIVEN BURDEN (not human pity over a needy situation).Group or Individual Activity: Ask each person "Do you have the same passion for the things of God that Nehemiah did ? What challenge is burning in your heart ?ÑÏAC T€£€€‚€€‚‚‚‚€€â°{4õ‰‚‚ãHN‰‚ÿ(b) Nehemiah Took The Situation To The Lord.Nehemiah did not act on impulse; he took his anguish to the Lord. Kneeling, weeping, he prayed, and the Lord set his heart on fire with a great vision of rebuilding Jerusalem.Group or individual Activity: Read Nehemaih 1:5-11, listing out all the things that strike you about this prayer. Ask each person 'Have you taken your challengeing vision to the Lord in this way ?Go back and continue the lesson.8-y1­ÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿŸyBTopic66ˆ;AM j€v€€†F€ÀC^*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+NEXT.WAV€ ‚ÿ(iii) Recognizing And Seizing God-Given Opportunities.iAyj( €‚€€‚€‚‚ÿSome months later, the Lord gave Nehemiah an opportunity...0š, (€ €€†"€+‚ÿ ñjº/ ,€ã€€‚‚‚€€‚‚‚ÿThere are three main lessons to learn from this stage in Nehemiah's Calling....(a) Nehemiah Was Faithful In Little Things.As well as being a man of God, Nehemiah has a secular job. He used his talents and his character was moulded so that he rose to become the 'King's Cup-bearer' - a job given only to someone trusted completely as poison was a political weapon at this time. Nehemiah was so good an employee, that when he presented his need, the King gave Nehemian all the help needed.Pš = H€'€€‚€€‚‚€€‚‚€€‚‚‚ÿGroup or Individual Activity: Ask each person 'How can you improve your everyday work as so be like Nehemiah ? Discuss.(b) Nehemiah Had A Clear, Reachable Target.Group or Individual Activity: Discuss what Nehemiah's clear, reachable target was. It was a difficult goal, but no impossible. From then on, that idea was the entire purpose in his life. When God places a burden on our hearts that we take in earnest upon ourselves, our whole life will be gripped by, masteres by and effected by that over-riding vision.{Vº… % €¬€€‚‚‚ÿWe must narrow down what God is saying to us into a clear, reachable objective...N  Ó . *€A€€€‚‚‚‚‚ÿGroup or Individual Activity: Discuss which of the following is a clear, reachable,objective ...A Pastor Who Says.....(a) I want to reach the world for Christ.(b) I want to serve the Lord.(c) I want to form three house groups, in three neighbouring areas where there is no church.(… û $ €€€‚‚ÿ¶ŠÓ ± , &€€€‚‚‚‚‚‚ÿWhat goal do you have in your work ? _______________________________________________Is it clear ? _________Is it reachable ? _____àû Ç 6 :€Á€€‚€‚‚‚€€‚‚‚‚‚‚ÿIt is essential that we can state our God-given vision in a clear and reachable way. This is not to say we force the vision and move in presumption, but we need to interpret what God is saying into real, achievable terms.(c) Nehemiah Planned Carefully And Seized His Opportunity Wisely.When at last the opportunity arose for Nehemiah with the King it is clear that he had worked out what he needed....At one stroke he obtained from the King...*Permission to travel.é±  @5 8€Ó€€‚‚‚‚‚‚€€‚‚‚‚‚‚ÿ*Letters of recommendation.* Wood for building.* An armed guard.This was not a list of things thought up at the last minute but had been carefully and prayerfully thought through . Group or Individual Activity: Think about the possible consequences if Nehemiah had not obtained any one of the above. Discuss.Further, on his arrival at Jerusalem, Nehemiah was not frantic to begin...* He acted calmly (he waited three days).* He acted prudently (went out secretly by night).Ç  @A÷œÇ B: B€{€€‚‚€€‚‚‚‚‚‚ãHN‰‚‚‚ÿ* He was thorough (checked everything personally and in detail.)Group or individual activity: Get each person to write the answers to the following questions on a piece of paper...- Have you made a concrete analysis of your situation ?- What do you need to carry out your work ?- What plans have you to reach your objective ?Everyone share what you have written. Pray for each other.Now you can go back and continue this lesson.8 @;B16ÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿ ;B«BŒ€Topic67p#B«BM j€F€€†F€ÀC=*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+NEXT.WAV€ ‚ÿ(iv) Communicating The Vision.a,;B E5 8€Y€€‚€‚‚€€‚€‚‚ÿOn reaching Jerusalem, Nehemaih found a shanty town among the rubble - a complete disaster - the people were defeated. Once he had a clear estimate of the amount of work to be done, and a plan of action ready, he concentrated on his first goal....(a) Encouraging And Mobilizing The Disheartened Inhabitants Of Jerusalem.Nehemiah effectively inspired and mobilized his followers. A real leader is a person who reaches his goals through other people. He achieved this through inspiring them, and delegating to them portions of work they could do.&«B2E# €€€‚ÿ0 EbE, (€ €€†"€‚ÿ1ò2E“G? L€å€€‚€€‚‚‚‚€€‚‚‚‚â°{4õ‰‚ÿGroup or individual activity:Look at the picture and discuss important lessons you can learn from Nehemiah's motivating speech (don't read on yet)Four characteristics of his mobilizing speech stand out....(i) He Clearly Identified With The People.He did not say , "You people are in a mess, i will tell you how to do it!".He had already identified with them in prayer (Nehemiah 1:6) and now as he speaks he uses 'we' and 'us' . He went to build with them and not just manage them.ÙbE²JF Z€³€€‚‚‚€€‚‚â§{4õ‰‚‚€€‚‚âš{4õ‰‚‚ÿHe identified with them in prayer, words and actions.(ii) He Acknowledged The Problems Involved.He stated the reality that Jerusalem was a mess. The people could tell that he knew what he was talking about and that he did not underestimate the difficulties. He had checked the facts by surveying the situation himself (Nehemiah 2:12-16).(iii) He Gave A Demonstration Of Faith And Commitment.Read James 2:18.He had already risked his life by being depressed in the King's presence. He had made requests and come a long and treacherous way to be with the people he was talking to. He was showing them that ,despite the difficulties of building and the opposition ,he was willing to commense the work with them.Ä•“GvM/ ,€+€€‚‚‚€€‚‚‚ÿFor many of us, we fear speaking out the vision until it is absolutely sure and every detail is worked out. We fear losing face. For us, the first step of faith God may be looking for is to risk embarrasment and go ahead and speak out the vision.(iv) He Gave Testimony Of God's Blessing On The Vision.Nehemiah shared God's hand in the events. The amount of evidence of God's blessing will depend on the time that you are sharing and what kind of response you are looking for. If we are just sharing our vision to our Pastor and other Christians so that they can nurture us in it and perhaps join us in prayer, then we do not need that much 'evidence'.Þ·²J`€' €o€€‚‚‚‚ÿNehemiah, on the other hand, was talking to strangers who were despondent. The job needed swift action and courage. The people needed proof and he gave it to them. He had made the preparations and done the faith actions and now he had the resources. This was the 'evidence' that God was in the vision.There had been a cost! We too must pay the price by stepping out in faith. The vision God gives us will demand a faith action that will cost us dearly. However, if we are willing the pay the price then the Lord will demonstrate His faithfulness and will provide what is needed for the vision to be outworkevM`€Bd. He will demonstrate His hand upon proceedings so we can give testimony of this.\2vMŒ€* $€d€€‚ãHN‰‚ÿNow you can go back and continue the lesson.1`€í€1ÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿ¡ÿÿÿÿí€ʁ݌Œ€ʁQ p€€€†F€ÀC¡;*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV‚‚‚€‚ÿ"But Jesus said to him, "No one, having put his hand to the plow, and looking back, is fit for the kingdom of God.""Luke 9:62 (NKJV)1í€û1¿ÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿ¢ÿÿÿÿû‰„LúʁG„R r€õ€‚H€†F€ÀCé_*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAVƒ‚ƒ‚ƒ‚ÿ16So it was, from that time on, that half of my servants worked at construction, while the other half held the spears, the shields, the bows, and wore armor; and the leaders were behind all the house of Judah.17Those who built on the wall, and those who carried burdens, loaded themselves so that with one hand they worked at construction, and with the other held a weapon.18Every one of the builders had his sword girded at his side as he built. And the one who sounded the trumpet was beside me.Bû‰„* $€0€‚H€‚‚€‚ÿNeh 4:16-18 (NKJV)1G„º„1qÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿ£ÿÿÿÿº„úŠ)Ù‰„ã†P n€³€‚H€†F€ÀC}j*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAVƒ‚ƒ‚ÿ5And I said: "I pray, LORD God of heaven, O great and awesome God, You who keep Your covenant and mercy with those who love You and observe Your commandments,6"please let Your ear be attentive and Your eyes open, that You may hear the prayer of Your servant which I pray before You now, day and night, for the children of Israel Your servants, and confess the sins of the children of Israel which we have sinned against You. Both my father's house and I have sinned.Iº„,‰+ $€=€‚H€ƒ‚ƒ‚ƒ‚ÿ7"We have acted very corruptly against You, and have not kept the commandments, the statutes, nor the ordinances which You commanded Your servant Moses.8"Remember, I pray, the word that You commanded Your servant Moses, saying, 'If you are unfaithful, I will scatter you among the nations,9'but if you return to Me, and keep My commandments and do them, though some of you were cast out to the farthest part of the heavens, yet I will gather them from there, and bring them to the place which I have chosen as a dwelling for My name.'Οã†úŠ/ ,€?€‚H€ƒ‚ƒ‚‚‚€‚ÿ10"Now these are Your servants and Your people, whom You have redeemed by Your great power, and by Your strong hand.11"O Lord, I pray, please let Your ear be attentive to the prayer of Your servant, and to the prayer of Your servants who desire to fear Your name; and let Your servant prosper this day, I pray, and grant him mercy in the sight of this man." For I was the king's cupbearer.Neh 1:5-11(NKJV)1,‰+‹1ïÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿ€ÿÿÿÿ+‹éŽFôúŠqR r€é€‚H€†F€ÀC‘m*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAVƒ‚ƒ‚ƒ‚ÿ12Then I arose in the night, I and a few men with me; I told no one what my God had put in my heart to do at Jerusalem; nor was there any animal with me, except the one on which I rode.13And I went out by night through the Valley Gate to the Serpent Well and the Refuse Gate, and viewed the walls of Jerusalem which were broken down and its gates which were burned with fire.14Then I went on to the Fountain Gate and to the King's Pool, but there was no room for the animal under me to pass.xI+‹éŽ/ ,€“€‚H€ƒ‚ƒ‚‚‚€‚ÿ15So I went up in the night by the valley, and viewed the wall; then I turned back and entered by the Valley Gate, and so returned.16And the officials did not know where I had gone or what I had done; I had not yet told the Jews, the priests, the nobles, the officials, or the others who did the work.Neh 2:12-16 (NKJV)1q1(ÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿ¥ÿÿÿÿÀ÷¥éŽÀR r€K€€†F€ÀC=p*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV‚‚‚‚€‚ÿ"But someone will say, "You have faith, and I have works." Show me your faith without your works, and I will show you my faith by my works."JameÀéŽs 2:18(NKJV)1NÀ1•ÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿŠÿÿÿÿNÀ²Æ·dÀÃS t€É€‚H€†F€ÀCµr*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV‚ƒ‚ƒ‚ƒ‚ÿNeh 8:1-61Now all the people gathered together as one man in the open square that was in front of the Water Gate; and they told Ezra the scribe to bring the Book of the Law of Moses, which the LORD had commanded Israel.2So Ezra the priest brought the Law before the assembly of men and women and all who could hear with understanding on the first day of the seventh month.3Then he read from it in the open square that was in front of the Water Gate from morning until midday, before the men and women and those who could understand; and the ears of all the people were attentive to the Book of the Law.£xNÀšÅ+ $€ñ€‚H€ƒ‚ƒ‚ƒ‚ÿ4So Ezra the scribe stood on a platform of wood which they had made for the purpose; and beside him, at his right hand, stood Mattithiah, Shema, Anaiah, Urijah, Hilkiah, and Maaseiah; and at his left hand Pedaiah, Mishael, Malchijah, Hashum, Hashbadana, Zechariah, and Meshullam.5And Ezra opened the book in the sight of all the people, for he was standing above all the people; and when he opened it, all the people stood up.6And Ezra blessed the LORD, the great God. Then all the people answered, "Amen, Amen!" while lifting up their hands. And they bowed their heads and worshiped the LORD with their faces to the ground. ÚòÆ0 .€µ€‚H€‚‚‚ƒ‚‚‚€‚ÿ(NKJV)Neh 9:33And they stood up in their place and read from the Book of the Law of the LORD their God for one-fourth of the day; and for another fourth they confessed and worshiped the LORD their God.(NKJV)1šÅãÆ1ÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿ§ÿÿÿÿãÆ?Ç\²Æ?ÇV |€€€†F€ÀCùt*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV†"€+€‚ÿ1ãÆpÇ1ÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿšÿÿÿÿpÇÌÇ\?ÇÌÇV |€€€†F€ÀCqw*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV†"€€‚ÿ1pÇýÇ1ÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿ©ÿÿÿÿýÇYÈ\ÌÇYÈV |€€€†F€ÀCµy*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+OPEN.WAV†"€!€‚ÿ1ýÇŠÈ1€ÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿªÿÿÿÿŠÈýʵYȘÊY €€k€€†L€ÀCü{*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+CASHREG.WAV€€‚‚€‚ÿThis download is HONOURWARE which means that you are encouraged to send an 'honourarium' (love gift) for the use of it if you have the means. Much work has gone into this and Tim has personally paid all expenses both financially and in much hard-work and time-taken. The recommended way is to send a ten dollar bill (or equivalent) inside a folded piece of paper in an envelope to the following address.....Timothy James Gibson,e=ŠÈýÊ( €z€€‚‚€‚ÿBlock 653, Woodlands Ring Rd, #12-466,Singapore 730653.8˜Ê5Ë1¶ÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿ«5ËšË-ÎTopic68s&ýÊšËM j€L€€†F€ÀC­~*33792,2,BIGPIC.HLP+NEXT.WAV€‚ÿTHE SPIRITUAL GIFTS RESOURCE PAGE$œ5ËÌ͈ ހ9€€‚ãN€‰€‚ÈEF(`gifts.exe',`',1)€‰€‚ÈEF(`gifts.pdf',`',1)€‰‚ÈEF(`gifts.hlp',`',1)‰‚ÿClick here to go to the start of the Big Picture Lesson 4 which is about the Gifts of the Spirit.Click here to take the Spiritual Gifts assessment questionairre which will show you your main giftings.Click here for a more detailed study on Spiritual Gifts in Adobe Acrobat Format (printable student worksheet).Click here for Spiritual Gifts Detailed Descriptions (choose 'giftings explored').a.šË-Î3 6€^€€âSf4õ‰‚†"€&‚ÿScriptures on The Gifts Of The Spirit.1ÌÍ^Î1Uÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿ¬ÿÿÿÿ^΂Î$-΂Î" €€€"ÿ1^Îÿÿÿÿ1ÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿ­ÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿ2)#šMS Sans SerifSymbolSystemTimes New RomanArial€H€€€€ €€ H€€(€8€ÿ €€$€€€€ÿ$€€(€4€€€$€€(€€€€$€ !t$U€ ‚ ‡ x‰ Pž¬ 4^Š΁€€t Èт ¥€1ŒЃ  A#8€#a$ƒƒ$© ‰$é‚%ú‰%&ù&,‡&h‰'£ˆ)5*f‡*“Šù„+i,ùƒ-–Š- ../ž/Û 0À€1_€2­†3†5Œ5”7jŠ7Ñ8œ8œ‡9ç‚ l€/&;)F24ÿÿF+FÿÿÿÿContentsGlossaryTopic1Topic10 Topic11Topic12Topic13Topic14Topic15 Topic16$Topic17(Topic18,Topic190Topic24Topic208Topic21<Topic22@Topic23DTopic24HTopic25LTopic26PTopic27TTopic28XTopic29\Topic3`Topic30dTopic31hTopic32lTopic33pTopic34tTopic35xTopic36|Topic37€Topic38„Topic39ˆTopic4ŒTopic40Topic41”Topic42˜Topic43œTopic44 Topic45€Topic46šTopic47¬Topic48°Topic49ŽTopic5žTopic50ŒTopic51ÀTopic52ÄTopic53ÈTopic54ÌTopic55ÐTopic56ÔTopic57ØTopic58ÜTopic59àTopic6äTopic60èTopic61ìTopic62ðTopic63ôTopic64øTopic65üTopic66Topic67Topic68Topic7 Topic8Topic9/&;)Lzÿÿ® TÿÿContents$Topic1°… Topic2 Topic3©Topic4Rˆ£ˆ“ŠTopic5tGlossaryƒúbÀU r_‚߂O„ô„€…÷†Œ‡ˆˆŠ ÛüÌ#£_Topic6à‚ç‚Topic7 Topic8l€Topic9Topic10Ö €ú€UTopic11€Topic12 € ၠl‚ üƒ V… ¢† œ‡ Dˆ þˆ Š  ñ h K Á   Topic13ü ” û  k   „ q 2 € ր … ”‚ 0„ ƅ ͅ ԅ @† äˆ l š ? 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