Food for the Body

Christ

The Body of Christ News

Food for the Body

August 1, 2004

Volume 13, Number 1

“Christ is the author and finisher of our faith..”

“But the manifestation of the Spirit is given to every man to profit withal.” 1 Corinthians 12:7

“Now I beseech you, brethren, by the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that ye all speak the same thing, and that there be no divisions among you; but that ye be perfectly joined together in the same mind and in the same judgment.” 2 Corinthians 1:10

Hasten The Day Of The Lord

Jesus told the Apostles that He was going to prepare a place for them (us). Jesus wants us to be with Him in the Kingdom of God. Peter reminds us of God’s promises. The Father Revealed to Peter more about the Day of the Lord. It will come when we least expect it as a thief in the night.

The Lord did not forget us. He is long-suffering because He wants a big Family in heaven. He wants to walk and talk with many, many people.

This present earth will melt away with a fervent heat and the heavens will pass away with a great noise. It is no wonder that Jesus told us to lay up treasures in heaven where it cannot be destroyed. We will not suffer any loss when the heavens and earth are destroyed.

The Lord wants men to come to repentance. In order to repent, one must believe God exists (faith) and believe the Gospel of the Kingdom of God, not just the Gospel of salvation. The worldly church only believes and preaches the Gospel of salvation which is based in fear – if you don’t repent, you’ll go to hell. This is true, but fear is not a healthy motivation for an intimate relationship with God. With fear as the foundation one is placed under the law and good works for justification. This renders the death of Jesus powerless because one does not approach God from Agape Love and Faith.

What would your relationships look like if they were all based in fear?

What would your relationships look like if they were all based in Agape Love?

Are there any differences?

We are to hasten the day of the Lord. We can do this by being holy in our conversations. This means that we speak words of Agape Love. We speak only the things we hear the Father say. It also means we do what we see Him doing in heaven.

We are to look for the promise of the new heavens and new earth where righteousness dwells. We are to be diligent and at peace with each other and in Him, without spot and blameless. We are to live the Life of God in front of those around us in the world. God’s Agape Love will draw men to Jesus. They will want to know why we are so different. When Agape Love rules our lives, the world WILL see a difference. This is not simply a religious, worldly church cliché. Jesus’ life turned the world upside down. Mankind had not seen anything of God before. Jesus walked in the Kingdom of God and revealed it to mankind. We are to do the same.

2 Pet.3:9 The Lord is not slack concerning his promise, as some men count slackness; but is longsuffering to us-ward, not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance.

10 But the day of the Lord will come as a thief in the night; in the which the heavens shall pass away with a great noise, and the elements shall melt with fervent heat, the earth also and the works that are therein shall be burned up.

11 Seeing then that all these things shall be dissolved, what manner of persons ought ye to be in all holy conversation and godliness,

12 Looking for and hasting unto the coming of the day of God, wherein the heavens being on fire shall be dissolved, and the elements shall melt with fervent heat?

13 Nevertheless we, according to his promise, look for new heavens and a new earth, wherein dwelleth righteousness.

14 Wherefore, beloved, seeing that ye look for such things, be diligent that ye may be found of him in peace, without spot, and blameless.

15 And account that the longsuffering of our Lord is salvation; even as our beloved brother Paul also according to the wisdom given unto him hath written unto you;

16 As also in all his epistles, speaking in them of these things; in which are some things hard to be understood, which they that are unlearned and unstable wrest, as they do also the other scriptures, unto their own destruction.

17 Ye therefore, beloved, seeing ye know these things before, beware lest ye also, being led away with the error of the wicked, fall from your own stedfastness.

18 But grow in grace, and in the knowledge of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. To him be glory both now and for ever. Amen.”

This is an opportunity to shift our eyes toward the Kingdom of God. It is easy to think that we will have all our possessions, things and stuff with us in the future. We will not. We are to look forward to the promises of God because He has prepared things for us that we cannot even begin to imagine because they are so wonderful.

We are to focus on Agape Love. This is to be what we seek first. Agape Love is the Kingdom of God and His righteousness.

Let’s diligently grow in the Kingdom of God and put into practice what we already have active in our re-born spirits. Take these things to the Father and ask Him to reveal the Truth to your heart.

E-mail:

dgpadgett@earthlink.net

We’re on the Web!

www.thebodyofchrist.com

Christ

	*The Body of Christ News* *Food for the Body*
August 2, 2004	Volume 13 Number 2
“Christ is the author and finisher of our faith..” “But the manifestation of the Spirit is given to every man to profit withal.” 1 Corinthians 12:7 “Now I beseech you, brethren, by the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that ye all speak the same thing, and that there be no divisions among you; but that ye be perfectly joined together in the same mind and in the same judgment.” 2 Corinthians 1:10	Sorry Vs. Repentance Repentance is a condition of remorse. It has to be real and truthful! It involves a heart of contrition, of spiritual regret experienced by someone who is convicted by the Holy Spirit into realizing that he/she has broken one or more of the commandments of God. Repentance is not the sorrow of, say, a thief who has been caught red-handed with stolen property and is terrified of the consequences or a lie caught on tape! Nor should repentance be confused with the reluctant apology of a person who has been proven wrong and cannot, somehow, gainsay her/his opponent's arguments. Pride! Pride! Pride! What are we thinking in these last days? Repentance is not the regret, or sorrow, experienced by a person who has made a mistake, the results of which have “forced” someone to admit they were wrong. No, the repentance we are considering in today’s letter has nothing to do with misdeeds where no sense of guilt or regret is felt. 2 Corinthians 7:9-10 shows us that repentance is an OUTCOME of sorrow. It is the godly sorrow, which leads to repentance, but sorrow itself is not repentance. Repentance is "a changed life" and a converted life, based on love towards God. Acts 3:19 reveals that repentance and conversion are two separate things. Peter says, "Repent therefore and be converted." First, we have godly sorrow. Then, we have true repentance. And finally, we have a changed life, in that order. Being just sorry all the time is not true repentance. W. E. Vine's definition of repentance: "change of mind" and involves both a turning from sin and a turning to God.” So let us think of repentance as simply "a change of mind" in which we must “decide” to "turn from our sin and turn to God." Sorrow comes before it, but Change comes afterwards. That is the difference! Glory to God! Repentance is therefore a decision of the mind in which one decides to change their life. But what prompts one to make such a drastic decision? Only "GODLY SORROW” produces true REPENTANCE! "Worldly sorrow" is a SELFISH kind of sorrow based solely on Self-serving Motives. Whereas, godly sorrow is directed towards God and what is pleasing or right according to God, His Word and His Spirit. If we are sorry because our actions sinned against the Holy Ghost or we now realize the price Jesus has paid a dear price for our sin or even the fact that we ought to be more Christ-like, that becomes a godly sorrow. It touches out heart. Read Psalm 51: 4. "Worldly sorrow" produces death and regret while "godly sorrow" produces repentance to salvation and life. God must be in it somewhere, somehow. Worldly sorrow is a repetition of saying the same old words and making the same old excuses or the same old promises, with NO CHANGE in habit or action or motive. I had to “repent” for getting into a marriage relationship of 21 years! I knew it was not God’s will for me. I allowed pride and the counsel of leadership to convince me to remain in such a marriage…how silly of me! And guest what? My partner knew also! We both remained in a relationship from HELL! Ha! That is the truth. It did not get resolved until we both decided to do the right thing! We agreed to release each other and the curse began to reverse itself! Disobedience is as the sin of witchcraft! No matter what we did, it did not prosper together…we both had different vision…purpose…destiny…and passion. Listen and learn: Almighty God will not authorize or join together for the purpose of marriage, a man who refuses to lead his wife or a woman who refuses to follow her husband. NEVER! Can we honestly look at our lives and see signs that we have really had "a change of mind” or” a decision to turn from sin or wrong doing and turn to God?” You decide…answer this for your-self, right now. Where are you? The kingdom of God is His way and His system of doing things. He is All Knowing, All Seeing and Always Present. He misses nothing! He cannot be deceived. Nor can He be bribed. And no amount of counseling, prayer, fasting, rituals, or anything else will make us prosper, outside, God! He has to be the center of our focus and attention. We must be in His will for our lives! We are in need of repentance if we have not obeyed the gospel or if we have become slack in our zeal and eagerness to do the right thing based on what we KNOW is pleasing to God. There is a set standard already designed by God for His glory. He is a Holy God and we ought not to utter just anything in His presence. Nor do anything in the presence of His people. If we can still curse, get angry, hold grudges, talk abusive, gossip, act prideful, get drunk…drugged…smoked… be rude to others and simply go around and say, “I’m sorry,” then we are in need of true repentance- BIG time! In case you did not know! Been there! Done that! Recently left! I am not perfect, but I am quick to repent and change! It can be difficult at times to do in a cheerful manner, but it is necessary for optimal growth and success in life. It is called, “living by faith, not by sight.” God’s life inside us causes each of us to act a certain way. We are all different, but He becomes our common denominator! He is the sign of our love of which no one can fake…. You either have it (love) and Him (Jesus) or you do not. It is a lifestyle that has to be embraced and received as being vital, necessary, and important. If not, it is a sign of personal internal – inside issue to be reckoning with. Be not deceived, God is not mocked! We cannot afford to go around faking repentance and think it will assure us a spot in heaven! Please, let us examine ourselves (you and me). Let us be mindful of the little things that we do daily-that trip up our love walk and take away our peace. And the next time we say,” I’m Sorry!”…What are we really saying behind it? Is it spoken out of love or is it another way to get us what WE want for the moment? If what we become is so far and void of love, how can the world recognize us-as belonging to God? And if the world cannot recognize us, how can Jesus? When Jesus spoke of, “I NEVER knew you,” He was not talking to the people of the world…He was referring to us who should KNOW Him and He, us! Remember, God has YOU on His mind! He really loves you! Let Him change you today. Grant Him permission over all areas of your life, not just the part that looks good in your eyes. Take these things to the Father and ask Him to reveal His Truth to your heart. God bless you.
E-mail: dgpadgett@earthlink.net We’re on the Web! www.thebodyofchrist.com

	*The Body of Christ News* *Food for the Body*
August 3, 2004	Volume 13, Number 3
“Christ is the author and finisher of our faith..” “But the manifestation of the Spirit is given to every man to profit withal.” 1 Corinthians 12:7 “Now I beseech you, brethren, by the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that ye all speak the same thing, and that there be no divisions among you; but that ye be perfectly joined together in the same mind and in the same judgment.” 2 Corinthians 1:10	Testify Of Love We are called to share the Gospel of the Kingdom of God. God is Love. God demonstrated His Love toward us that while we were sinners Christ died for us. Jesus testified of the Father and revealed the Kingdom of God to us. His life was full of the traces of Love. He was motivated by Love. Everything He did was rooted in Love. Jesus did not leave us alone, without comfort and direction. He sent the Holy Spirit to us. His job is to testify of Jesus. The Holy Spirit wants to use our mouth to bear witness of the goodness of the Kingdom of God. John 15:26 “But when the Comforter is come, whom I will send unto you from the Father, even the Spirit of truth, which proceedeth from the Father, he shall testify of me:” The word testify means: 140. martureo, mar-too-reh'-o; from G3144; to be a witness, i.e. testify (lit. or fig.):--charge, give [evidence], bear record, have (obtain, of) good (honest) report, be well reported of, testify, give (have) testimony, (be, bear, give, obtain) witness. This is further evidence of the Truth that we are in the Elohiym Family. Our Kingdom of God job is to testify that the Father sent Jesus to be the Saviour of the world. We are to give witness of this Truth. 1 John 4:12-19 “No man hath seen God at any time. If we love one another, God dwelleth in us, and his love is perfected in us. Hereby know we that we dwell in him, and he in us, because he hath given us of his Spirit. And we have seen and do testify that the Father sent the Son to be the Saviour of the world. Whosoever shall confess that Jesus is the Son of God, God dwelleth in him, and he in God. And we have known and believed the love that God hath to us. God is love; and he that dwelleth in love dwelleth in God, and God in him. Herein is our love made perfect, that we may have boldness in the day of judgment: because as he is, so are we in this world. There is no fear in love; but perfect love casteth out fear: because fear hath torment. He that feareth is not made perfect in love. We love him, because he first loved us.” Jesus promised that the Holy Spirit would give us the words we are to speak as we testify of Him (Love). See Luke 21:12-15. The Holy Spirit will confirm His presence in our lives as we go about doing the Kingdom of God work. Jesus’ desire for us is that our call and election be confirmed and that we yield completely. He wants us to operate fully in our call, election and gift. We are to be in agreement with the Father about the gift He gave us. The gifts are to be used for the benefit of others – to show the world how good our God is. When each of the twelve of us completely implodes, the outcome will be the manifested sons of God. We will be united and One Body and we will speak the same thing because there won’t be division among us. 1 Cor. 1:3-10 “Grace be unto you, and peace, from God our Father, and from the Lord Jesus Christ. I thank my God always on your behalf, for the grace of God which is given you by Jesus Christ; That in every thing ye are enriched by him, in all utterance, and in all knowledge; Even as the testimony of Christ was confirmed in you: So that ye come behind in no gift; waiting for the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ: Who shall also confirm you unto the end, that ye may be blameless in the day of our Lord Jesus Christ. God is faithful, by whom ye were called unto the fellowship of his Son Jesus Christ our Lord. Now I beseech you, brethren, by the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that ye all speak the same thing, and that there be no divisions among you; but that ye be perfectly joined together in the same mind and in the same judgment.” As the manifested sons of God we speak the Word with boldness. There is no fear because we know Agape Love and man can not touch or hurt us. We are spirits. If someone kills our physical body then we will be with the Lord. Hallelujah! There is no reason to fear anyone or anything. As manifested sons of God we will testify of Love with Words given by the Holy Spirit. We give a report of what we have seen and heard. We give an account of the Agape Love of God and the Gospel of the Kingdom of God. That is our job. Rev. 12:11 “And they overcame him by the blood of the Lamb, and by the word of their testimony; and they loved not their lives unto the death.” 141. marturia, mar-too-ree'-ah; from G3144; evidence given (judicially or gen.):--record, report, testimony, witness. Take these things to the Father and ask Him to reveal the Truth to your heart. God bless you. “As long as I shall live I shall testify of love.”
E-mail: dgpadgett@earthlink.net We’re on the Web! www.thebodyofchrist.com

The Body of Christ News

Food for the Body

August 4, 2004

Volume 13, Number 4

“Christ is the author and finisher of our faith..”

“But the manifestation of the Spirit is given to every man to profit withal.” 1 Corinthians 12:7

Get Revelation From The Lord

We have an on-going choice from the time we make Jesus the Lord of our life and are born of the Spirit to seek first God’s way of doing things or continue to seek after things according to the world’s way which is through the vanity of our own mind, thinking and perception.

The devil loves to watch and laugh at us as we try to understand the things of the Kingdom of God with our mind or try to do God’s work through our own wisdom. As babes in Christ the natural tendency is to conduct our Christian lives this way. It is only when we purpose with absolute conviction to only do things God’s way that the Holy Spirit is able to teach and lead us into this basic understanding of functioning in the Kingdom of God.

We set our SELF up as god when we choose to follow direction of our mind, thoughts or perspective and apply that to life situations. It is worse when we consult another before getting Revelation from our Heavenly Father. When we do this, we put the person from whom we seek wisdom our god. Let me explain.

We fall into the enemy’s trap whenever we read an Implosion or Newsletter article and immediately start to think it through, talk to others about it or evaluate it by what we know or have been taught by the worldly church or by others we have put on a pedestal.

We play into the devil’s system if we observe circumstances that are contrary to the promises of God or violate who we are in Christ (Family rights and privileges) AND RESPOND THROUGH OUR OWN PERSPECTIVE. If the circumstance is lack of funds or understanding and we evaluate these ourselves or ask others to pray for us first BEFORE going to the Lord, we then function in the world’s system and God can not respond because we did not seek Him first and do things His way. We excluded Him.

Then what are we to do? In the ‘Implosion Series’ the reader is encouraged to immediately take the information just read directly to the Lord. The authors of these articles asked the Lord about each point while writing. The words written were from His Revelation and that is why there is Power in them. We must do the same with as we read. As sons of God we must also go directly to the Father when we encounter any reproof of life.

Instead of using your mind the next time you read an article, including this one, say to the Father, “Father, I’ve read this information, now what to You have to say about it?” The next time you observe a circumstance (good or bad) say, “Father, what is Your take in this situation?”

The reason many live in negative circumstances or are confused is simply because they have tried to use their mind, thoughts and preferences in their walk with God. It simply will fail. The Father wants us to live our lives as His sons using His Revelation. We will not fall or fail if we do things His way.

Take this to the Father

E-mail:

dgpadgett@earthlink.net

We’re on the Web!

www.thebodyofchrist.com

	*The Body of Christ News* *Food for the Body*
August 5, 2004	Volume 13, Number 5
“Christ is the author and finisher of our faith..” “But the manifestation of the Spirit is given to every man to profit withal.” 1 Corinthians 12:7 “Now I beseech you, brethren, by the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that ye all speak the same thing, and that there be no divisions among you; but that ye be perfectly joined together in the same mind and in the same judgment.” 2 Corinthians 1:10	We See Clearly Jesus revealed the Father to His disciples during His ministry years. Jesus and the Father were One. Jesus watched what His Father did in heaven and He then executed the Father’s work on the earth. We must remember that only a select few prophets (Moses or Isaiah) did ANY miracles. The miracles were sporadic events, not an every day routine occurrence for these prophets. But Jesus regularly performed miracles, signs and wonders. Throngs of people came daily to Him and asked for help and deliverance. The Apostle John wrote that all the books in the world could not contain all the works of Jesus. These examples included in the Bible were told so we might believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God. Mankind had not seen the power of God in full demonstration as seen in Jesus’ life. Jesus’ life and ministry was a supernatural event! Jesus said we would do greater works than what He did because He was going to be with His Father in heaven. Jesus did numerous works as THE Body of Christ. Jesus tells His us that we are part of the Body of Christ. See verse 23. Now the Body of Christ has many members and we are located around the world so we, as the Body of Christ, can have a greater impact than if Jesus was limited to a single physical body. We are SUPPOSED to do greater works than Jesus! This is one of the most basic teachings Jesus gave on the manifested sons of God as the Body of Christ. He clearly states that He is in the Father, the Father is in Him, and they are in us. We must believe, love Him and keep His commandments. The Father does the work in heaven and the Body of Christ does this work on the earth. God wants to fellowship with us. He can do that by living in us. We see Him now because the Holy Spirit reveals Him to us. We may ask the Father to do things using Jesus’ name (Elohiym). This means we are Family members. Jesus states several important things. · The Father and Son are one. · The Father does the work in heaven. · Jesus (the Body of Christ) does the work on earth. · Mankind can believe in God because of the works. · Jesus said we could use His name (Elohiym). · We can ask anything in His name. · If we love Jesus, we keep His commandments. · Jesus promised to send the Holy Spirit, the Comforter. · We can see and know the Father. · We can see and know the Holy Spirit. · We see and know Jesus. John 14:10 “Believest thou not that I am in the Father, and the Father in me? the words that I speak unto you I speak not of myself: but the Father that dwelleth in me, he doeth the works. *11 Believe me that I am in the Father, and the Father in me: or else believe me for the very works' sake.* 12 Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that believeth on me, the works that I do shall he do also; and greater works than these shall he do; because I go unto my Father. *13 And whatsoever ye shall ask in my name, that will I do, that the Father may be glorified in the Son.* *14 If ye shall ask any thing in my name, I will do it.* *15 If ye love me, keep my commandments.* *16 And I will pray the Father, and he shall give you another Comforter, that he may abide with you for ever;* 17 Even the Spirit of truth; whom the world cannot receive, because it seeth him not, neither knoweth him: but ye know him; for he dwelleth with you, and shall be in you. *18 I will not leave you comfortless: I will come to you.* *19 Yet a little while, and the world seeth me no more; but ye see me: because I live, ye shall live also.* *20 At that day ye shall know that I am in my Father, and ye in me, and I in you.* 21 He that hath my commandments, and keepeth them, he it is that loveth me: and he that loveth me shall be loved of my Father, and I will love him, and will manifest myself to him. *22 Judas saith unto him, not Iscariot, Lord, how is it that thou wilt manifest thyself unto us, and not unto the world?* 23 Jesus answered and said unto him, If a man love me, he will keep my words: and my Father will love him, and we will come unto him, and make our abode with him. *24 He that loveth me not keepeth not my sayings: and the word which ye hear is not mine, but the Father's which sent me.* *25 These things have I spoken unto you, being yet present with you.* 26 But the Comforter, which is the Holy Ghost, whom the Father will send in my name, he shall teach you all things, and bring all things to your remembrance, whatsoever I have said unto you.” This newsletter must be taken directly to the Father for Revelation. It cannot be understood by the mind or religious teaching. Do not attempt to think it through because your mind is too small to comprehend what the Father wants to make real to your re-born spirit. You must seek His Revelation. The Father wants us to grow up and walk in the things taught in this article and scripture passage. God bless you.
E-mail: dgpadgett@earthlink.net We’re on the Web! www.thebodyofchrist.com

Aug 6

The Body of Christ News

Food for the Body

August 7, 2004

Volume 13, Number 7

“Christ is the author and finisher of our faith..”

“But the manifestation of the Spirit is given to every man to profit withal.” 1 Corinthians 12:7

The Lord Hath Need Of

Most of the time we think that God has everything and that He has need of nothing. After all, our Heavenly Father owns the cattle on a thousand hills and the earth and the fullness thereof are His. Then why would Jesus say in Mark 11:3 and Luke 19:31: “…the Lord hath need of Him.” Even though the donkey Jesus needed was His, our Heavenly Father uses men and the things on the earth to accomplish His will.

Jesus’ desire was to ride into town in style on an animal. Jesus’ desire came from the Heart of the Father. When Jesus gave the command to go get the donkey, He gave it to men, who in the natural realm did what He told them to do. They went out to the instructed place, untied the donkey and brought it to our Lord. He then mounted the donkey and rode.

Jesus is our example. He, was constantly in the Father’s presence simply commanded forth everything He saw the Father do and said everything He heard the Father say. As you know, we are supposed to be doing at least what He did…and even more.

When this scenario took place the Holy Spirit had not yet been given. Consequently, much of what Jesus carried out He did under the law of sin and death. He had to use man and work, through the natural realm as seen in the example. But we are the Body of Jesus upon the earth with all the privileges and authority He enjoyed. However, when we give a command it is the angels who harken or listen to the voice of the Lord.

Is. 55:11: “so shall My Word that goeth forth out of My mouth: it shall not return unto Me void, but it shall accomplish that which I please, and it shall prosper in the thing whereto I sent it.”

Heb. 1:14: “Are they not all ministering spirits, sent forth to minister for them who shall be heirs of Salvation?” My Brother and Sister, Jesus set it up for us to have the angels to help us accomplish His Will upon the earth. They are ministers (or servants) for the heirs of Salvation. Who is that? Us!

Are you born again and born of the Spirit? If you are then you have an entire heavenly host to aid you in accomplishing what our Heavenly Father has called you to do. Let’s utilize all the tools He has given us including the angels. Command them. They have to obey the Word of the Lord. If you have spent time with Him, you have seen His will. Now go for it!

Take these things to the Father and ask Him to reveal the Truth to your heart.

E-mail:

dgpadgett@earthlink.net

We’re on the Web!

www.thebodyofchrist.com

	*The Body of Christ News* *Food for the Body*
August 8, 2004	Volume 14, Number 1
“Christ is the author and finisher of our faith..” “But the manifestation of the Spirit is given to every man to profit withal.” 1 Corinthians 12:7 “Now I beseech you, brethren, by the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that ye all speak the same thing, and that there be no divisions among you; but that ye be perfectly joined together in the same mind and in the same judgment.” 2 Corinthians 1:10	The Lord Has Need Of As we saw in part 1, when Jesus needed something, He gave the command and it was done: He commanded that vats filled with water be brought to Him, He commanded that what ever food (five loaves of bread and two fishes) be brought to Him, He commanded that the lunatic who was “sore vexed” (that means was full of demons) be brought to Him, along with many more, all of which ended in a miracle; water turned to wine, a multitude fed and a man set free with all the demons cast out of him are the results. Notice on very apparent thing: none of His commands were for His benefit; they were given to bless another. When Jesus was physically here during His earthly ministry, He was restricted to being in one place at one time. We are His Body and are located all over the earth. Therefore, Jesus is now not restricted to one locality but is present wherever we are. If you are born of the Spirit of God then you are Family. Jesus, who is not only our example but our elder Brother, indicated that the things He did, we would do even greater. We, like Jesus, are the Blessed. We are the Anointed and are so to be a blessing. Our Family position is secure. We are to bring Life, Salvation and Agape to the hurting dying world. We are not even to pray for ourselves but pray for others. Paul gave us a glimpse of that when he exhorted us to pray for one another that we may be healed. As we have learned the angels are at our command. They are our servants, to do the Lord’s bidding; which is our bidding; they need to have commands issued via speaking the Word. They are programmed to bring blessing to mankind but only if they have something to work with; our commands. As we seek the Kingdom of God and do things God’s way, we will first recognize that we are Family and are fully furnished in all things. Then as we seek His will, He will show us His perspective for a situation or a person. As we set in motion His Will / Word for that situation or person, they will be Blessed and we, part of the Family, will automatically reap. Our motivation is never for ourselves, it is always to be a Blessing to the other person. You are my Brother and Sister and are described in 1 Pet. 2:9: “But ye are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, an holy nation, a peculiar people; that ye should show forth the praises of him who hath called you out of darkness into his marvellous light:” We, the Body of the Lord on the earth, have need of…. Go now and set the captives free. Be a Blessing. Act like you are a full-fledged member of a Royal Family and see the Glory of the Lord. Take these things to the Father and ask Him to reveal Truth to your heart. Walk in His way. God bless you.
E-mail: dgpadgett@earthlink.net We’re on the Web! www.thebodyofchrist.com

Christ

	The Body of Christ News Food for the Body
August 9, 2004	Volume 14, Number 2
“Christ is the author and finisher of our faith..” “But the manifestation of the Spirit is given to every man to profit withal.” 1 Corinthians 12:7 “Now I beseech you, brethren, by the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that ye all speak the same thing, and that there be no divisions among you; but that ye be perfectly joined together in the same mind and in the same judgment.” 2 Corinthians 1:10	Command Ye Me The Lord is giving us new revelation understanding about how we are to walk in the Kingdom of God. The past two newsletters can be summarized as follows: · Our place in God’s family is secure and we know Father’s heart because we spend time with Him. · We speak His perfect will into existence on earth, just as He does in heaven. · The angels are ministering servants to help the heirs of salvation. We are to speak God’s will to them. · We are to bring Life, Salvation, and Agape Love to the people around us. Isaiah spoke what God gave him to say. Under the old covenant all man could do was to ask God about things to come. Isaiah foretold of the day when the sons of God would speak commands of and to the Lord. Is. 45:11 “Thus saith the LORD, the Holy One of Israel, and his Maker, Ask me of things to come concerning my sons, and concerning the work of my hands command ye me.” Sons: 1121. ben, bane; from H1129; a son (as a builder of the family name), in the widest sense (of lit. and fig. relationship, including grandson, subject, nation, quality or condition, etc. Command: 6680. tsavah, tsaw-vaw'; a prim. root; (intens.) to constitute, enjoin:--apppoint, (for-) bid. (give a) charge, (give a, give in, send with) command (-er, ment), send a messenger, put, (set) in order. Jesus is our example. He spoke to His Father and commanded things in this realm. We do not operate under the exact same limitations as Jesus. He was in one geographic place and gave commands to man in order to fulfill God’s will. We are live in many different countries and cities. Re-read the examples from the newsletter dated August 7, 2004, to see how Jesus commanded God’s will on the earth. The angels were sent to minister to Jesus who is the heir (initiator) of salvation. Jesus did not give angels commands to fulfill God’s will. He spoke God’s will to man who did what Jesus told them to do. Jesus said we would do the same things He did during His ministry. But He went on because there was more to say. He also said we would do GREATER things than He did. Jesus gave us tools to use in our Kingdom of God work which are: · The Holy Spirit. (John 14:16 & 26; John 15:26; John 16:7) · The ministering angels. (Heb. 1:14) John 15:16-17 “Ye have not chosen me, but I have chosen you, and ordained you, that ye should go and bring forth fruit, and that your fruit should remain: that whatsoever ye shall ask of the Father in my name, he may give it you. These things I command you, that ye love one another.” Jesus commanded us to love one another. We are to love one another with Agape Love. This is how the world will know that we are sons of God. The primary characteristic of the sons of God is AGAPE LOVE. Agape Love causes us to: · Pray for others. · Put others first. · Spend time with God to see what He wants to do for someone. We then command or speak these things into existence. Speaking commands and giving God’s directions to the angels is a normal part of life for the manifested sons of God. The Lord has called us to ponder these things and when we have the rhema of this begin speaking commands. This is part of the Body of Christ’s work on the earth. We are to enforce the total and complete defeat of the enemy. Jesus (we’re in Christ) has made the enemy his private footstool. The enemy is our footstool. We are to enforce our victory. You may never have been taught nor done this before. That’s OK. This is something new. But it now time to listen to the Holy Spirit because He will lead you into the Truth in this area of Kingdom of God life. The Father wants us to get this in our spirits. We are to turn off our thinking because our minds are too limited to understand and grasp something this big. God wants to reveal His way to us. We are to walk in this. Each one of us. (You can see who receives this email.) Additionally, we are to model this for others who are called to the Body of Christ. We are to be Jesus’ example of the Kingdom of God life on the earth today just as He was 2,000 years ago. It’s OK to follow Jesus’ example. He completed the will of the Father and that is what we are called to do. God bless you as you seek Him and desire to know the Truth and be set free in this area of your life.
E-mail: dgpadgett@earthlink.net We’re on the Web! www.thebodyofchrist.com

----

The Body of Christ News

Food for the Body

August 10, 2004

Volume 14, Number 3

“Christ is the author and finisher of our faith..”

“But the manifestation of the Spirit is given to every man to profit withal.” 1 Corinthians 12:7

Walk In The Word

Although the current size of the Body of Christ group is not large, God has a specific design and purpose for us. This purpose will become clearer as we do one KEY thing: apply the Word immediately. That Revelation is one of the most basic things in walking in the Kingdom of God and is based on something Jesus said: “…those who obey my commandments are my disciples indeed!”

The Lord has provided us, The Body Of Christ with some excellent Food. Have we digested it? We MUST be doers of the Word not just hearers. Why? Because we deceive ourselves if we don’t DO THE WORD.

Some are just babes in this while others are well seasoned. Those well seasoned MUST help the others in applying the Word. Those who are well seasoned in the Word and do not help the babes are not DOING what Jesus commanded. Keep my commandments and be a doer of the Word.

I think of the little 8 month baby we have been occasionally watching. She couldn’t sit up, crawl or walk a month ago. We have been working with her as much as possible. What is the result? Now she is not only sitting up but is crawling at lightning speed. Soon she will be walking. Has she fallen while pushing forward? Yes, many times. What does she do? She gets up and tries again.

So it is with us in the Kingdom of God. We crawl in the things of the Kingdom, sometimes stumble, but we must get up and go again. Make your demands on the Power of God, command the angels, know that you are the Blessed of the Lord and be the Blessing to others you are designed to be. You may think you don’t have the resources to be that Blessing but I tell you from the Heart of our Heavenly Father - purpose to be that Blessing and Our Daddy will make sure you have all, even more than you need to do so.

GO FOR IT!

Take these things to the Father and ask Him to reveal the Truth to your heart. God bless you as you seek Him.

E-mail:

dgpadgett@earthlink.net

We’re on the Web!

www.thebodyofchrist.com

	*The Body of Christ News* *Food for the Body*
August 11, 2004	Volume 14, Number 4
“Christ is the author and finisher of our faith..” “But the manifestation of the Spirit is given to every man to profit withal.” 1 Corinthians 12:7 “Now I beseech you, brethren, by the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that ye all speak the same thing, and that there be no divisions among you; but that ye be perfectly joined together in the same mind and in the same judgment.” 2 Corinthians 1:10	The Money Is The Lord’s The traditional worldly church operates the same as a corporation. The corporation sells products and services for a price. The price point is designed to cover the company’s expenses plus profit. This is the basis of the free market economy. There is nothing wrong with a corporation or business selling products and services. The worldly church sells the gospel via tapes, books, CD’s, and sermons. The payment for these church products and services includes fees, tithes and offerings. The modern-day believer buys these church products and services because he has never been taught about the Kingdom of God economy. It is wrong for the church to sell the gospel. This motive is rooted in fear and greed. The worldly church uses various scriptures to justify selling the gospel, which are all based in fear. Mal. 3:8-12 is the primary scripture used to strike terror in the heart of believers so they pay their tithe. Most of these scriptures used are based in Old Testament law. What did Jesus say He came to do regarding the law? Doesn’t the Body of Christ understand that we are NOT subject to the Old Testament law? We are under the NEW Testament (Covenant) of HIS BLOOD! Matt. 5:17 *“Think not that I am come to destroy the law, or the prophets: I am not come to destroy, but to fulfil.”* The last thing Jesus said on the cross is found in John 19:30: *“When Jesus therefore had received the vinegar, he said, It is finished: and he bowed his head, and gave up the ghost.”* We are now free from the Old Testament because there is a New Testament in the blood of Jesus. God dwells in our hearts. The Old Covenant is finished. It holds no power over us. We are born of the Holy Spirit. 2 Cor. 3:3-6 “Forasmuch as ye are manifestly declared to be the epistle of Christ ministered by us, written not with ink, but with the Spirit of the living God; not in tables of stone, but in fleshly tables of the heart. And such trust have we through Christ to God-ward: Not that we are sufficient of ourselves to think any thing as of ourselves; but our sufficiency is of God; Who also hath made us able ministers of the new testament; not of the letter, but of the spirit: for the letter killeth, but the spirit giveth life.” In Matt. 6:24-34 Jesus tells us that our heavenly Father knows we need things. He said this because man is preoccupied with food, clothing, possessions, etc. He also knew man puts getting things we need before God. That is why He started His discussion of provision by stating that no man can serve two masters – money (wealth) and God. Jesus pointed out that man distrusts God and thinks he must provide for himself. See what He said in verse 30 about faith. This is the way of the world. Fear and greed operated in the church when Jesus walked the earth, just as it does today. It is not the Kingdom of God way. What is the Kingdom of God way? It is simple. Matt. 6:33 *“But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.”* The worldly church uses this verse. Many believers think that they can use God to get all their fleshly desires and needs met by sitting in a seat in a church building once a week and saying a rushed prayer request when desperate. This last statement is harsh but true. God looks at the intention and motive of our heart. Matt. 15:8-9 “This people draweth nigh unto me with their mouth, and honoureth me with their lips; but their heart is far from me. But in vain they do worship me, teaching for doctrines the commandments of men.” What type of heart attitude pleases God? Jesus said God blesses the pure in heart. Matt. 22:37-40 reveals how the Kingdom of God operates. The Kingdom of God functions by Agape Love. God loves a cheerful giver. If you give out of Agape Love, then your heart will be happy. Fear cannot operate if you live, give, act and react out of Agape Love. As you learn to live by Agape Love you will understand in your re-born spirit that everything you have is a gift of God. You do not own it but you are entrusted with things for a short period of time. The things are to be used for the Kingdom of God work. God blesses us so we can bless others and show them the goodness of our Father. The Lord has destroyed the stronghold of greed. This has affected the entire body of Christ. The Lord owns it all, including all that we have ourselves. We must not let greed effect us any more. We do not have to give in to the pressure of that high powered spirit for his power has been destroyed. We are free to give, and give liberally. May the Lord be blessed in our giving! You must take these things to the Father and ask Him to reveal the Truth to your heart. Everything we have is a potential tool for the Gospel of the Kingdom. We must unclench our fists and let go of the things so that we can be a blessing to others. Look at an example of how God provided when taxes were due. Matt. 17:26-27 “Peter saith unto him, Of strangers. Jesus saith unto him, Then are the children free. Notwithstanding, lest we should offend them, go thou to the sea, and cast an hook, and take up the fish that first cometh up; and when thou hast opened his mouth, thou shalt find a piece of money: that take, and give unto them for me and thee.” God bless you.
E-mail: dgpadgett@earthlink.net We’re on the Web! www.thebodyofchrist.com

Christ

	The Body of Christ News Food for the Body
August 12, 2004	Volume 14, Number 5
“Christ is the author and finisher of our faith..” “But the manifestation of the Spirit is given to every man to profit withal.” 1 Corinthians 12:7 “Now I beseech you, brethren, by the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that ye all speak the same thing, and that there be no divisions among you; but that ye be perfectly joined together in the same mind and in the same judgment.” 2 Corinthians 1:10	Kingdom Of God Evangelism We have all seen traditional evangelism in action; preach the gospel and tell them that if they don’t receive Jesus they are going to hell. In short, scare or frighten them into the Kingdom. The only problem with that is that the new convert now has a foundation of fear that their entire Christian experience is now based upon. Everything learned and lessons perceived from the reproofs of life are filtered through the foundation of fear. What we see in the first chapters of the book of Acts is something that is the opposite. We see Agape in action. The Believers first met in the temple (really an open-air meeting place) then went from house to house. The result being God added to the Church daily those being saved (delivered and set free). Like Jesus, the Believers took what was available, blessed it, and distributed it. In one case, there were only two fishes and five loaves of bread with 15,000 to 17,000 people to be fed. The resources available were minimal and the need great but the observable circumstances were not something our Heavenly Father and our Lord Jesus considered. Jesus knew His Authority over the elements and used what was available, blessed it, which means He empowered it to prosper. He spoke to it and then distributed it. On another occasion wine was needed. He called for vats filled with water and blessed it. He spoke to it and as those carrying the vats delivered it, a change took place; the water became wine. Keep in mind that Jesus did not evaluate the spiritual condition of the people or the physical circumstances. In other words, those to receive the blessing were not all living holy lives. On the contrary, they were all sinners not being born again. He saw the need, used what was available, which always multiplies in quantity and the need was met. That’s Kingdom style evangelism! We can do the same. To apply this in today’s realm we might learn of a need - a person’s water is about to be turned off. They owe not only the current amount due of $50.00 but owe $100.00 in arrears leaving the total of $150.00 that needs to be paid. Maybe you only have $20.00 in hand. In the natural $20.00 does not equal $150.00, but in the Kingdom of God (God’s way of doing things), it’s more than enough. Remember the mustard seed? Take the $20.00 *and bless it. Speak to it.* Then go take it down to the water company. As you get yourself in motion, God gets involved, the angels are sent out to minister (serve) and, according to the Word, there will be more than enough. The evangelism comes in to play when you have done the Word and simply tell the people what the Lord has done for them. I tell you Love (Agape) NEVER fails. They will want to be part of the Body of Christ. We are the Family of the Most High; the One who owns it all. Since our Dad owns it we have right to it as well. We are Blessed to be a blessing. Our motivation is Agape, not fear. As we bring Agape to mankind we become doers of the Word. Our motivation is not to get (greed) but to give (bless). We will find that a transformation will take place in us. Do you want to know how to break the stronghold of greed and accumulation? Apply this Word. Digest this Food. Go to Dad and tell Him that you want to be a Blessing asking Him to direct you to somebody or bring a person to you. Be observant because He may already have placed someone you are to Bless before you. Let the Lord speak to you. Take these things to the Father and ask Him to reveal the Truth to your heart.
E-mail: dgpadgett@earthlink.net We’re on the Web! www.thebodyofchrist.com

Christ

	The Body of Christ News Food for the Body
August 13, 2004	Volume 14, Number 6
“Christ is the author and finisher of our faith..” “But the manifestation of the Spirit is given to every man to profit withal.” 1 Corinthians 12:7 “Now I beseech you, brethren, by the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that ye all speak the same thing, and that there be no divisions among you; but that ye be perfectly joined together in the same mind and in the same judgment.” 2 Corinthians 1:10	The Kingdom of God Economy A profound statement was made in the Aug. 11, 2004 Food for the Body Newsletter: “The modern-day believer…has never been taught about the Kingdom of God economy.” Truer or more accurate words have never been spoken. In that all-familiar verse Matthew 6:33 we read: *“seek ye first the Kingdom of God….", we should understand that our Heavenly Father wants us to seek His way of doing things first and not seek the world system. What does it mean to seek first the Kingdom of God which is God’s way of doing things? The answer is simple! · Don’t evaluate the situation by you own understanding. · Don’t look for the way of the world to provide an answer. · Don’t look to a person to give you wisdom. · Don’t look to organized religion (denominations) or religious training to provide the answer. We are to look to and bring the situation to the Lord FIRST. I once asked the Lord for a simple way of explaining the essentials of how the Kingdom of God functions and how we can know if we are following it. He explained it to me this way: “If the world can do the same thing, then it is not My way of doing things.” Then He reminded me of this Scripture, Proverbs 16:25: “There is a way that seemeth right unto a man, but the end thereof are the ways of death.” When we mention doing things the world’s way, we are pointing to the examples given above. We know that the world does not have a relationship with our Heavenly Father. They cannot utilize Kingdom principles until and unless they make Jesus the Lord of their life. As we know, Jesus is the ONLY way to the Father. Apart from Jesus, we have no relationship with Him. Therefore, the unsaved world is stuck functioning in the system of this world, of which satan is god. When Believers look to the world and its systems, we submit to its constraints and limitations. Paul addressed it this way in 1 Cor. 3:3: “For ye are yet carnal: for whereas there is among you envying, and strife, and divisions, are ye not carnal, and walk as men?”* If one walks in carnality that is according to the sense realm. The world depends on the sense realm because it has no other option. We then walk as mere men and the power of God is UNAVAILABLE to meet the need. We are members of the Family of God. We have been redeemed. We are the sons of God with the name of Jesus and all the Family nature, which is the Divine Nature. Old things have passed away and behold (LOOK) all things have become New. So how can we function in this Mighty unlimited realm? We do this by seeking Him and His way first before anything else. Just as we always encourage, not as an option but as an essential, take this information you have just learned or what you have just read directly to our Heavenly Father to get Revelation. This is very important as we mature so that we can develop the habit of counseling with the Father first. Then, as mature sons this action will be our first nature. God bless you as you take this to Him for Divine Revelation.
E-mail: dgpadgett@earthlink.net We’re on the Web! www.thebodyofchrist.com

The Body of Christ News

Food for the Body

August 14, 2004

Volume 14, Number 7

“Christ is the author and finisher of our faith..”

“But the manifestation of the Spirit is given to every man to profit withal.” 1 Corinthians 12:7

More On The Kingdom Of God Economy

In yesterday’s Food for the Body News, we discussed some of the very basics of the economy of the Kingdom. Today we will expand our understanding in hope that each reader will first talk to the Lord about the content of the Food Letter and will begin to utilize more fully the Kingdom principles taking them from mental agreement to practical application.

When a financial situation presents itself we have several choices to make. Keep in mind that we are a spirit, we have a soul (mind, will and emotions) and we live in a body - our house. In order for us to function upon the earth, we must use our soul and body. We perceive, evaluate and decide a course of action with our soul and we feel our environment with our body.

We did not mention the spirit-man in the preceding sentence because that is really who we are. Our soul and body is the servant of the spirit. Before we are Born-Again, our soul and body are governed by an unregenerate spirit-man whose entire life is based on fear. The soul and body are programmed to do what they have been doing all along which is to make decisions with out of fear.

A need may come up. Let’s say we need a vehicle. The vehicle of choice costs $10,000.00 US. You look at your resources; checking and savings accounts and other liquid assets. You realize that you don’t have the available money to purchase the vehicle with what you have. At this point you must exercise your will and make a decision. Do I develop a course of action based on the way of the world (fear) or the Kingdom of God which is the way of faith?

The instant we are Born-Again we receive God’s nature.

2 Cor. 5:17: “Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new.”

1 Cor. 1:30: “But of him are ye in Christ Jesus, who of God is made unto us wisdom, and righteousness, and sanctification, and redemption:”

1 John 2:20: “But ye have an unction from the Holy One, and ye know all things.”

We have a new nature. We have the wisdom of God and we know all things. Are these things automatic? Yes! By faith.

Heb. 11:6: “But without faith it is impossible to please him: for he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him.”

These are the elements of the Kingdom of God.

How does this apply to our example about needing a car? As a Born-Again believer we must choose to seek first the Kingdom of God way. Will the Lord let us choose the world’s way? Yes, He will. He gave us the freedom of choice but commands us not to choose it.

Matt. 6:33: “But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.”

Homework for tomorrow part 3. Consider the example and list the actions one would take relative to each choice. We will list them in the Food Letter for Sunday.

Take these things to the Father and ask Him to reveal the Truth to your heart.

God bless you.

E-mail:

dgpadgett@earthlink.net

We’re on the Web!

www.thebodyofchrist.com

Christ

The Body of Christ News

Food for the Body

August 15, 2004

Volume 15, Number 1

“Christ is the author and finisher of our faith..”

“But the manifestation of the Spirit is given to every man to profit withal.” 1 Corinthians 12:7

God’s Economy

God’s economy is robust and thrives. There is no thing missing or broken in His economy. The Kingdom of God lifestyle is based on faith. We receive all things from God by faith. It is very important that we learn to operate in faith so faith impacts and directs our lives.

Let’s go back to our example of the car from an earlier Food for the Body article. We all know what we would do in the natural so we won’t waste our time with worldly ways. Let’s focus on how God’s economy works.

We need a car. We found one that costs $10,000. We don’t have enough money. So what do we do in God’s economy?

We talk to the Father about our heart’s desire.

We ask Him to show us what He is currently doing in heaven.

We do in this realm what we saw the Father do in heaven with what we have.

We listen and obey – give, bless etc., whatever He revealed.

We take what we have and bless it and command it to multiply and do what He told us to do with what is available.

We command the angels to bring forth what is needed.

We receive the full amount by faith.

We think and speak faith-filled words.

We possess what we have asked for by God’s plan and way.

Tell others about His goodness and God gets the glory!

You must take these things to the Father because only He can make this real to your heart.

E-mail:

dgpadgett@earthlink.net

We’re on the Web!

www.thebodyofchrist.com

This newsletter is distributed free of charge to the Body of Christ. May the Lord be blessed as we obey Him and do His Kingdom work.

The Body of Christ News

Food for the Body

August 16, 2004

Volume 15, Number 2

“Christ is the author and finisher of our faith..”

“But the manifestation of the Spirit is given to every man to profit withal.” 1 Corinthians 12:7

Kingdom Of God Economy – Practice Time

Our Father has shown us more about His Kingdom and how it works. He has given us several servings of meat. We’ve had some time to ponder and digest what He set before us. It’s now time to come together and as a group do what He’s been teaching us.

Let’s look at some feedback that came in about the car example.

The Kingdom of God way:

· Get out my Bible and turn to Matt. 6:31-34 and say to our Heavenly Father, “Father, I am to take NO thought for what I drive. You know I have need of these things. Therefore, I cast the care of my vehicle on you and thank you now for that provision.”

· Purpose to listen to what He tells you to do. He may tell you to open a savings account or set aside an automobile fund envelope, take a specific amount of money and plant a seed, naming it automobile seed or many other things.

· Be content with what you have, thanking Him for the full provision.

· Cast down any thought that exalts itself above the knowledge of God. In this case the knowledge of God is that all your needs are met according to God’s riches.

· Develop your hope (blueprint) …”NOW faith is the substance of things HOPED for, the evidence of things not seen (revealed to our sense realm). In short, receiving it by faith, calling those things that have not yet been revealed or delivered to me as though it has been.

Now let’s put our Faith to work.

· Individually or as a group, select one person with a known need. See the Needs News letter if you don’t know anyone with a need.

· List the ways of the world (natural steps) then list the Kingdom of God ways. Pray and set the Kingdom of God’s way in motion in that situation.

· Then listen to what the Father says. He may want someone or the group to meet the need. Don’t dismiss the possibility that the Lord would tell you to contribute toward or entirely meet that need.

The bottom line is that our Heavenly Father will honor you and/or the group who seeks FIRST His Kingdom. The need will be met in full manifestation and all can see the Kingdom of God manifested on the earth. Give God the Glory!

Take this to the Father and ask Him to reveal the Truth to your heart. Then select a need and see what the Lord wants to do! God bless you as you stretch your faith and reach out to another person.

E-mail:

dgpadgett@earthlink.net

We’re on the Web!

www.thebodyofchrist.com

Christ

The Body of Christ News

Food for the Body

August 17, 2004

Volume 15, Number 3

“Christ is the author and finisher of our faith..”

“But the manifestation of the Spirit is given to every man to profit withal.” 1 Corinthians 12:7

Bond Of Perfection

We are reminded of our family relationship in these verses. We are the elect of God. We are holy and beloved by our Father. We are to put on deep, profound mercy and kindness. We are to be humble in how we perceive ourselves. We are the same in God’s eyes because we are God’s elect. We are all in Christ. We are to put on the bond of perfection (perfectness) and Agape Love.

We are one because Jesus called us into one body. We are part of His Body. We are in Him. We are part of each other. We are one in the Holy Spirit. We are to encourage each other and come prepared to meetings with songs, hymns, and spiritual songs. We come together as a group to glorify and give thanks to God.

Wisdom dwells in us. We are to teach and let the Word call attention to the things we must take to the Lord for Divine Revelation. We are in different places in our walk with the Father. This is why we are told to forebear and forgive one another. As we do this the peace of God will rule our heart and life.

Col. 3:12-17 “Put on therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, bowels of mercies, kindness, humbleness of mind, meekness, longsuffering; Forbearing one another, and forgiving one another, if any man have a quarrel against any: even as Christ forgave you, so also do ye. And above all these things put on charity, which is the bond of perfectness. And let the peace of God rule in your hearts, to the which also ye are called in one body; and be ye thankful. 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. And whatsoever ye do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God and the Father by him.”

Our Father has called us into His Family. We are His elect and dearly loved ones. We are to show God’s Agape Love to each other. We are to open our hearts to the needs of those around us. God has provided all we need for life. We are blessed so we can bless and help others. This is part of compassionate Agape Love.

Walk upright before the Lord. You are blessed and well able to meet every need of those around you. Ask the Father how He wants you to reach out and touch those around you.

God bless you as you take this to Him for His Divine Revelation.

E-mail:

dgpadgett@earthlink.net

We’re on the Web!

www.thebodyofchrist.com

Christ

The Body of Christ News

Food for the Body

August 18, 2004

Volume 15, Number 4

“Christ is the author and finisher of our faith..”

“But the manifestation of the Spirit is given to every man to profit withal.” 1 Corinthians 12:7

But We Have The Mind Of Christ

We are born of the Holy Spirit. We have the ability to know and relate to God, our Father. We can speak with Him and enter into His throne room. We are Family. We can ask Him anything. We can do anything.

Jesus promised to send the Holy Spirit to us after He ascended to the Father. He kept His word. In this passage we learn that our Father has prepared such wonderful things for us because we Love Him. These things are incomprehensible to the natural mind and heart. The precious Holy Spirit reveals these things to our hearts. We must receive them by Faith. We have received the Holy Spirit so we can know what God has freely given to us.

The Holy Spirit revealed Jesus as Wisdom to us. Jesus is the Truth and the only way to the Father. The full power of God dwells in us because the Father, Son and Holy Spirit live inside us. We are His holy habitation.

We know God’s ways because we have the mind of Christ. As we exercise our Faith and experience the Kingdom of God lifestyle daily. God wants us to operate fully in the Kingdom of God just as Jesus did. In fact, we are to do greater things than Jesus. How can that be done? Easily. There was only one Body of Christ when Jesus walked the earth. Now the Body of Christ has many members.

God wants us to take our position and do our job. We are to manifest the Kingdom of God on the earth. We are to do what He does in heaven.

1 Cor. 2:9 “But as it is written, Eye hath not seen, nor ear heard, neither have entered into the heart of man, the things which God hath prepared for them that love him.

10 But God hath revealed them unto us by his Spirit: for the Spirit searcheth all things, yea, the deep things of God.

11 For what man knoweth the things of a man, save the spirit of man which is in him? even so the things of God knoweth no man, but the Spirit of God.

12 Now we have received, not the spirit of the world, but the spirit which is of God; that we might know the things that are freely given to us of God.

13 Which things also we speak, not in the words which man's wisdom teacheth, but which the Holy Ghost teacheth; comparing spiritual things with spiritual.

14 But the natural man receiveth not the things of the Spirit of God: for they are foolishness unto him: neither can he know them, because they are spiritually discerned.

15 But he that is spiritual judgeth all things, yet he himself is judged of no man.

16 For who hath known the mind of the Lord, that he may instruct him? But we have the mind of Christ.”

Ponder these things and ask the Father to reveal the Truth to your heart.

The Body of Christ Newsletter will soon be available on-line.

E-mail:

dgpadgett@earthlink.net

We’re on the Web!

www.thebodyofchrist.com

	*The Body of Christ News* *Food for the Body*
August 19, 2004	Volume 15, Number 5
“Christ is the author and finisher of our faith..” “But the manifestation of the Spirit is given to every man to profit withal.” 1 Corinthians 12:7 “Now I beseech you, brethren, by the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that ye all speak the same thing, and that there be no divisions among you; but that ye be perfectly joined together in the same mind and in the same judgment.” 2 Corinthians 1:10	Let The Kingdom Of God Out Of The Box Jesus was Light and Life to the world. We are part of Jesus. Jesus reflected the characteristics of the Father. Everything He said and did revealed God’s character and Love to us. Jesus said we are the Light of the world. We are to let Light and Life shine from us. Our words and deeds are to reflect traces of God’s character. We are called to be leaders in the Kingdom of God. We are the manifest sons of God. We are part of the Body of Christ. We are learning what that means. We are learning about the Kingdom of God and how to live in it. We are learning about the gifts God has given us. We are learning how to use them. We are learning to care and show Agape Love for each other. We are learning that we are united together by the Blood of Jesus. We are learning the importance of Faith. We speak Faith filled words. We are learning to look beyond ourselves and reach out to others. We are learning to put others first. We are learning who we are in the Elohiym family and what that means. We are learning what is ours because we are in God’s family. Each one of us in maturing in our call and election. It is critical that we continue to seek the Kingdom of God’s ways. We are to meet needs when we see them. We are to ask the Father what He wants us to do. We are to do what He says. We are to obey His direction and voice. We are to be on the lookout for someone to help. What did God tell you to do as you read the last Needs News? Did you obey? Did you ask Him if there was anything else He wanted you to do? This is the Kingdom of God way. The Gospel of the Kingdom of God to the world is that they don’t have to be sick, broken hearted, depressed, unstable emotionally, or lack anything. The good news is that you don’t have to wait for a Sunday service to have someone in a position of authority or more spiritual pray for you. You don’t have to wait for the next healing service or crusade to come to your town. Jesus performed one or two miracles and the word spread like a wild fire. People came to Him by the hundreds and thousands. This is to be characteristic of our life as a manifested son of God. Just like Jesus! If your mind is not yet renewed to the Truth of who you are as a son of God and what He wants you to do then spend time with the Father and renew your mind. You have the mind of Christ. Let’s get with it! Put the Kingdom of God first in your life. We must be rooted in sound doctrine that is Revealed by the Holy Spirit. Get rid of all traces of religious tradition and doctrine taught by the worldly church because it is tainted by fear. Titus 1: 7-9 (NIV) “Since an overseer is entrusted with God's work, he must be blameless--not overbearing, not quick-tempered, not given to drunkenness, not violent, not pursuing dishonest gain. Rather he must be hospitable, one who loves what is good, who is self-controlled, upright, holy and disciplined. He must hold firmly to the trustworthy message as it has been taught, so that he can encourage others by sound doctrine and refute those who oppose it.” Ponder these things and take them to the Father and ask Him to reveal Truth to your heart. God bless you as you seek first the Kingdom of God. The Body of Christ Newsletter will soon be available on-line.
E-mail: dgpadgett@earthlink.net We’re on the Web! www.thebodyofchrist.com

Christ

	The Body of Christ News Food for the Body
August 20, 2004	Volume 15, Number 6
“Christ is the author and finisher of our faith..” “But the manifestation of the Spirit is given to every man to profit withal.” 1 Corinthians 12:7 “Now I beseech you, brethren, by the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that ye all speak the same thing, and that there be no divisions among you; but that ye be perfectly joined together in the same mind and in the same judgment.” 2 Corinthians 1:10	Let Your Light Shine Jesus said in Matt. 5:16: *“Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.”* Yesterday’s Food Letter provided this exhortation to all of us, especially those whom He has called to function as the sons of God upon the earth. Jesus set us free. We are now free to live as a fully Anointed member of the Family of God. We live in the Kingdom of God. It is not just a preference of our Heavenly Father that we reflect His nature on mankind, it is an essential. Jesus is our big Brother and our example. Every where and every time He observed a need He met the need. It did not matter whether it was financial, spiritual or physical. He paid another person’s tax bill, He provided all the food for a huge banquet, He healed the sick, etc. Never, never, NEVER did He call His disciples together and say, “Hey guys, sister or brother so and so is in a situation. Let’s put them on our prayer list.” No, a thousands time NO - He saw the need and met it. We are the Body of the One whom we read about. We are part of Jesus. 1 Cor. 12:27: *“Now ye are the body of Christ, and members in particular.”* The Bible also tells us as He (Jesus) was, so are we in the world. Don’t take this wrong. Praying for another is not a bad thing. But as the manifest sons of God or even just as a Born Again believer, we are to be like He was upon the earth when He was in full physical manifestation. We are to meet the need. Now questions, no discussion and no pondering…just meet the need! As was pointed out we are to seek the Kingdom first and find out what our Heavenly Father is doing about the need we observe. Then when we see the Father’s action in the Spirit we must simply go and do. That’s what Jesus did. This Word may be a thermometer for you. Good! If you are not currently meeting the needs of those whom you serve then you should go over this check list: · Am I looking to Agape my neighbor or just put on a show? · Am I too busy serving myself to see the hurting world? · Am I stingy? · Am I not aware of my position in and to the world as a son of God? · Am I fearful? Perfect [mature] Agape casts out fear. There are many more things that could be listed but if you are wearing any of these hats TAKE IT OFF! You must purpose to walk by Faith like a son of God that you are. DO IT NOW. The world and our Dad are counting on us. He is counting on YOU. God bless you as you apply and do this Word.
E-mail: dgpadgett@earthlink.net We’re on the Web! www.thebodyofchrist.com

The Body of Christ News

Food for the Body

August 21, 2004

Volume 15, Number 6

“Christ is the author and finisher of our faith..”

“But the manifestation of the Spirit is given to every man to profit withal.” 1 Corinthians 12:7

Give And Receive

John 3:16: “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.”

There are two important words in this verse - love and gave. God loved us so much that that He gave. The important thing is that He loved before He gave. Did He have anything given to Him? The answer to that is yes. He has been given the harvest of souls. The example is that if we love as we give, we receive back.

There is a scripture that I hear so often, especially when it is time to receive the offerings or tithes. Each time I have heard that scripture, it was as if there was a little tug on my heart that something was not complete. I finally felt as if I needed to really get into that scripture.

Luke 6:38 “Give, and it shall be given unto you; good measure, pressed down, and shaken together, and running over, shall men give into your bosom. For with the same measure that ye mete withal it shall be measured to you again.”

It could apply to giving money, but as we look at what Jesus said we see there is much more than money involved. Giving and receiving applies to our entire Kingdom of God walk. The amplified explains it this way:

Luke 6: 38 “Give, and (gifts) will be given to you; good measure, pressed down, shaken together, and running over, will they pour into the pouch formed by the bosom of your robe and used as a bag. For with the measure you deal out with the measure you use when you confer benefits on others, it will be measured back to you.”

Confer in the Funk and Wagnall dictionary means: to grant as a gift or benefit; bestow. The word benefit means: that which is helpful; advantage; profit. It is an act of kindness; charitable deed.

Let's put the scripture into context of the meaning of the words. It would read this way;
For with the measure you use when you grant or bestow an act of kindness, a charitable deed or are helpful to others it will be measured back to you.

So let’s search out some of the scriptures and see how these verses apply to our Agape Love walk.

Luke 6: 27 Amplified: “But I say to you who are listening now to Me: in order to heed, make it a practice to love your enemies, treat them well( do good to, act nobly toward) those who detest you and pursue you with hatred.”

Invoke blessings upon and pray for the happiness of those who curse you, implore God's blessing (favor) upon those who abuse you who revile, reproach, disparage, and highly misuse you

Luke 6:38: “Give, love to your enemies, treat them well and do good to them and you will be given love, treated well, and goodness will be given to you pressed down, shaken together and running over.”

Invoke blessings upon and pray for the happiness of those who curse you, and implore God's favor upon them who abuse you or misuse you and blessings and favor will be given to you, pressed down, shaken together and running over.

Luke 6: 29 Amplified: “To the one who strikes you on the jaw or cheek, offer the other jaw or cheek also; and from him who takes away your outer garment, do not withhold your undergarment as well.”

Give to the one that strikes your cheek or jaw, the other one also and if your outer garment is taken, give him your undergarment as well and gifts will be given to you pressed down, shaken together, and running over.

Luke 6: 30 Amplified: “Give away to everyone who begs of you who is in want of necessities, and of him who takes away from your goods, do not demand them back again.”

Give away to everyone who has a need, and do not take back your goods from someone who has taken from you and your needs will be met, and what has been taken from you will be given back pressed down, shaken together, and running over.

Luke 6: 31 Amplified: “And as you would like and desire that men do to you, do exactly so to them.”

Give to men the way you desire that men do to you and it will be given to you pressed down, shaken together, and running over.

Luke 6:32 Amplified: “If you merely love those who love you, what quality of credit and thanks is that to you? For even the very sinners love their lovers those who love them.”

Give love to those who do not love you and love will be given to you, pressed down, shaken together and running over.

Luke 6:33 Amplified: “And if you are kind and do good and do favors to and benefit those who are kind and good and do favors to and benefit you, what quality of credit and thanks is that to you? For even the preeminently sinful do the same.”

It is easy to give, to be kind and do good to others that always are always being kind, doing good and blessing others, but as Jesus said even the sinners (world) does those things. We as Christians are suppose to do the opposite of the world’s way. That is why Jesus says to do these things for people that are not kind or doing good for others, and we will benefit from it. You may ask how?

Give kindness, do good and show favor to those that are not kind, and that are never doing for others or blessings others and kindness, goodness and blessings will be given, pressed down, shaken together, and running over.

When you read the rest of the scriptures below, make sure you apply verse 38 to the scriptures.

Luke 6:34 Amplified: “And if you lend money at interest to those from whom you hope to receive, what quality of credit and thanks is that to you? Even notorious sinners lend money at interest to sinners, so as to recover as much again.”

Look what Jesus is saying. If you lend money at interest from those whom you hope to receive, you are acting the same as the sinners do, who is always trying to gain something of the world. We believers are to act differently. Jesus is saying that we are to give them the money and not lend it. Whenever you lend it and expect it back, you are putting them in bondage to you. Give money and it will be given back to you pressed down, shaken together and running over.

Luke 6: 35-37 Amplified: “But love your enemies and be kind and do good doing favors so that someone derives benefit from them and lend, expecting and hoping for nothing in return but considering nothing as lost and despairing of no one; and then your recompense (your reward) will be great (rich, strong, intense and abundant), and you will be sons of the Most High, for He is kind and charitable and good to the ungrateful and the selfish and wicked. So be merciful (sympathetic, tender, responsive, and compassionate) even as your Father is all of these. Judge not neither pronouncing judgment nor subjecting to censure, and you will not be judged; do not condemn and pronounce guilty; acquit and forgive and release give up resentment, let it drop), and you will be acquitted and forgiven and release.”

Remember that God loved and gave, so in order to give the things that we just read in all the scriptures above we will have to do it with the love of God that is in us, because we cannot do these things with human love. With the measure you give, you will receive. You must do it in faith.

We pray that the eyes of your understanding be enlightened as you ponder these verses. We believe the Holy Spirit will reveal more to those who have ears to hear what the Spirit is saying to the Church. When the believers start walking in these things, the circumstances in their life will be changed and they will experience victory.

Gen. 8:22: “While the earth remaineth, seedtime and harvest, and cold and heat, and summer and winter, and day and night shall not cease.”

For every seed you plant whether good or bad you will reap a harvest, so if you plant negative seeds you get a negative harvest, so what are you sowing?

GLORY TO GOD!!!

Take this to the Father and ask Him to reveal Truth to your heart that you may walk in His Agape Love.

The Body of Christ Newsletter will soon be available on-line.

E-mail:

dgpadgett@earthlink.net

We’re on the Web!

www.thebodyofchrist.com

Christ

The Body of Christ News

Food for the Body

August 22, 2004

Volume 16, Number 2

“Christ is the author and finisher of our faith..”

“But the manifestation of the Spirit is given to every man to profit withal.” 1 Corinthians 12:7

Darkness And Light

Jesus told us we are to boldly speak out the hidden things that He reveals to us. These words will bring Light and Life to those who listen. We are not ashamed to speak the Truth. The Truth is powerful because there is no thing hidden or obscure in it. Truth will draw people to the Father.

Matt. 10:27 “What I tell you in darkness, that speak ye in light: and what ye hear in the ear, that preach ye upon the housetops.”

We walk in the Light as long as we do what we see the Father doing. We will not stumble or fall because we see clearly in the Light. We have made our call and election sure.

John 8:12 “Then spake Jesus again unto them, saying, I am the light of the world: he that followeth me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life.”

People in the worldly church can no longer have a foot in the Kingdom and the other in the world. There is no more time for schizophrenic Christians to wander through life aimlessly. The world is looking for answers, not religion and tradition.

John 12:35-36 “Then Jesus said unto them, Yet a little while is the light with you. Walk while ye have the light, lest darkness come upon you: for he that walketh in darkness knoweth not whither he goeth. While ye have light, believe in the light, that ye may be the children of light. These things spake Jesus, and departed, and did hide himself from them.”

We are to reprove the deeds of darkness knowing we are prepared to fight against the principalities and powers of darkness.

Eph. 5:11 “And have no fellowship with the unfruitful works of darkness, but rather reprove them.”

Eph. 6:12 “For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places.”

God called us to His Family. Family membership is not an exclusive club. Jesus made it possible to those who would believe. We have full Family privileges. One must simply believe the Gospel of the Kingdom of God.

Jesus brought Light to the world. We bring Light to the world. We are to focus on what the Father is doing in heaven and then do those things on the earth. We are to speak and command those Words Jesus reveals to us.

1 Peter 2:9 “But ye are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, an holy nation, a peculiar people; that ye should show forth the praises of him who hath called you out of darkness into his marvellous light: Which in time past were not a people, but are now the people of God: which had not obtained mercy, but now have obtained mercy. Dearly beloved, I beseech you as strangers and pilgrims, abstain from fleshly lusts, which war against the soul; Having your conversation honest among the Gentiles: that, whereas they speak against you as evildoers, they may by your good works, which they shall behold, glorify God in the day of visitation.”

We are called the manifest sons of God, a holy nation, a royal priesthood. God bless you as you take these things to the Father and receive His revelation.

The Body of Christ Newsletter will soon be available on-line.

E-mail:

dgpadgett@earthlink.net

We’re on the Web!

www.thebodyofchrist.com

The Body of Christ News

Food for the Body

August 23, 2004