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The Prayer of Enjoying God’s Kingdom (Acts 1:3-8) 8/2/2020
The greatest blessing that the saved people of God must enjoy is the Kingdom of God. In other words, God himself will guide us, reign over us, and bless us in Christ, through the Holy Spirit (absolute covenant). God’s people must simply enjoy this (absolute journey). From then you will be able to save people, raise disciples, and become the summit to do world evangelization. This is why Jesus spoke about the kingdom of God for 40 days before his ascension (verse 3).
God’s kingdom had existed even before the creation of the world. The first model of the Kingdom of God is the Garden of Eden. When mankind fell in Genesis 3, it had lost this blessing.
When we say “Kingdom,” it must have at least three things. First, it must have people who will be governed. Second, it must have land on which the people must live. Third, it must have a leader who will lead the people into an upright, happy life. When mankind fell into corruption, it had become separated from God’s governance. From then, it fell under Satan’s 12 strategies. The land that we live in became a place of complete curses, pain, and disasters. Why is that? Is it because of evil and greedy politicians? The Bible credits that to the corrupt spirit – Satan (John 14:30, Ephesians 6:12). Satan had been cursed by Christ (John 16:11), and when Christ returns, Satan will be judged for eternity (1Corinthians 15:24-25, Matthew 25:41).
- When Christ came to this earth, the restoration of the Kingdom of God began (Matthew 4:17).
Because Christ died and resurrected for us, made us his children, and sent the Holy Spirit as he ascended, we are now able to enjoy the Kingdom of God on earth. He is guiding us and working in us through the Holy Spirit. We say that the Kingdom of God has already come upon those who received salvation (Luke 17:21, Romans 14:17). This Kingdom of God will be made complete when Christ returns and begins a new heaven and earth (Revelations 21:1-3).
1) What we must do now is enjoy this Kingdom of God.
Undoubtedly, the Holy Spirit resides in those who are saved (John 14:16-18, 1Peter 2:9). Enjoy this work of the Holy Spirit within yourself, in everything you do, and wherever you set your feet. That is a life that enjoys God’s Kingdom.
2) Because this is not taking place, we cannot escape our own hidden scars and limits.
Even the saved ones can fall into depression, obsession over the wrong things, and spiritual problems. Some may constantly falter amidst their circumstances and become lost in worries and conflicts to the point where they cannot do the work that God desires. This is the reality behind the question “are you at this time going to restore the kingdom Israel?” that the disciples asked of Jesus. Even after receiving the gospel, it is hard to see God’s great works, the hidden blessings, and the future because the gospel becomes degraded and fitted into our own standards and necessities.
3) As we live in this manner, healing and saving the world becomes irrelevant to us.
Even if you achieve success in the world, it becomes a success that has nothing to do with God (wrongful success, success in vain, and false success). Then one day, you face Genesis 1:2.
- How must we enjoy this Kingdom of God? We do so through prayer (worship prayer, scheduled prayer, continuous prayer, concentrated prayer, 24 prayer).
Prayer is everything to children of God (John 14:12-14, John 16:24, 1Thessalonians 5:16-18). It does not matter if you do not see answers now. The prayers of the saints are collected in heaven, and it leads us to the kingdom of God (Revelations 8:3). What was the core of the Lord’s prayer? It is enjoying God’s kingdom. “Thy Kingdom come.”
1) Pray to enjoy the triune God that reigns over his kingdom (Matthew 6:9-10).
① Through prayer, praise the father God, acknowledge Christ the King, and seek the work of the Holy Spirit who will fulfill God’s will. This is what it means for us to enjoy the background of the throne of heaven. When we praise God, acknowledge him, and seek for his help, amazing works of the triune God will be upon our lives. That is the absolute blessing.
② God will mobilize his angels to work in our lives. That is when absolute works of God and miracles take place. You will meet people who can help you (Nobody – everybody), and absolutely impossible things will become absolutely possible (Nothing – everything).
③ This is when the kingdom of Satan, who brings problems and suffering to our families, workplace, and church, will crumble.
When the kingdom of Satan crumbles, all blessings will be restored (Matthew 12:28-29), and the will of God will be fulfilled in our lives. Our life itself will become God’s will.
2) Pray to discover that will (mission) from God (Matthew 6:11-13).
① We have no reason to worry about food, failure, or even tribulation and trials.
We are His children. Christ finished all problems. This is a given because the Holy Spirit is watching over us (Matthew 6:33).
② There is a more important reason. God has things to do through us. That is called the mission of God’s Kingdom.
Why did God send Joseph as a slave? Why did he send Israel as captives? Through your problems, recognize the heart of God that desires to save all nations and people like you. It is not a problem and it is not something that should hurt you. In the end, it is part of God’s plan to make us into his witnesses.
③ This does not only apply to problems. As you continuously stay in the flow of the word and enjoy prayer, you will absolutely discover God’s mission.
You can find your mission from the things that others don’t do (Nobody), things that others cannot do (Nothing) and be used by God. He who entrusts it to you will make sure you can handle it. When you are weak, He will make you strong for his works (2Corinthians 12:9).
3) Enjoy the eternal things of the Kingdom of God (13). Prayer of our life’s conclusions.
① The things of this world will pass. The eternal world will come. This is our conclusion.
Looking upon the background, authority, and glory of the eternal world, we will have victory today (Philippians 3:20, Colossians 3:1-4).
② When will it come? When the gospel has been preached to the ends of the earth. You will be His witnesses to the ends of the earth (Acts1:8).
Where is our end of the earth? There are many individuals waiting for the gospel in the deserted, pitiful places around us.
③ We may encounter circumstances in which we receive persecution or must stake our lives. God Himself will hold onto us.
Moses did not grow weak until the time of the conclusion (Deuteronomy 34:7). David was precious and wealthy in his later years and left many blessings to his posterity (1 Chronicles 29:28). Paul left behind disciples for the evangelization of Rome, the end of the earth of that age (Romans 16).
Conclusion – Do you make the time to enjoy the triune God? What is the mission we must realize and challenge for? What is the conclusion that you have held onto for your life? What is world evangelism to you? May you deeply enjoy the Kingdom of God.
The Prayer of Enjoying God’s Kingdom (Acts 1:3-8) 8/2/2020 August 2, 2020The Summit of God’s Kingdom (Acts 28:30-31) 7/26/2020
The 24th World Missions intensive training and conference successfully took place despite the pandemic. Many of the missionaries had to participate virtually, but I believe that they did so in deep prayer for the new paradigm.
When we talk about missions, we cannot help but to think of Paul from the passage, who demonstrated to us the missions that God desires. For the past few weeks, we looked at the absolute answer and power that came from holding onto the absolute covenant of God on the way to Rome. Paul has now entered Rome. The passage briefly tells of Paul’s ministry in Rome. Living under a landlord for about two years, he proclaimed of the kingdom of God to everyone who passed by. He spoke of Christ, the King of the nation. We must think about three things as we hold onto the covenant of true evangelism and missions.
- When we realize what the evangelism and missions that God desires is, we are already within the blessing of the summit.
First, if we do not realize evangelism and missions, we are far away from the heart of God (1Timothy 2:4-5). If one does not possess the spirit of evangelism and missions, no matter how successful he/she is, they are not a summit raised by God. The result will be Genesis 1:2.
1) Mankind was created as the summit to rule over the world in God (Genesis 1:27-28)
The heartbreaking history of losing all of that is Genesis 3 (Genesis 3:1-5, Romans 5:12). How utterly fallen are we? We are worshipping idols of humans and animals instead of the eternal glory of God (Romans 1:23).
2) Who deceived mankind? What is he doing now?
He destroys the inner thought of humans, eats away their spiritual strength, corrupts the cultures, and steals the economy. Isaiah 61:1-5 says when we rise and shine the light, all things lost will find its way back. Arising and shining the light is having correct spiritual lifestyle and saving the world through evangelism and missions.
3) What are we deceived by even after receiving salvation?
“I am poor,” “I am powerless,” “I have nothing.” Satan’s strategy is to deceive you through your environment and realities. This may very well be our reality living in the superpower of this age. The house we live in belongs to the bank and sometimes we don’t get to complete the payments. If it is true that God loves you more than enough to send his own son to die for your salvation (Isaiah 43:4, Romans 5:8), and that Christ resurrected from the dead and is now with you in his Holy Spirit, then you must have the assurance that you are someone who possesses everything (2Corinthians 4:7-9, 6:9-11). If you do not know who you are, you do not know the blessings you have been given or will get to enjoy your entire life. Keep in mind. From the moment you received salvation through Christ, you became the summit of God’s kingdom who has the identity of 1Peter 2:9.
- Realizing and enjoying the kingdom of God on this earth is the beginning of evangelism and missions. The evidence of the summit will then follow.
What kind of nation was Rome of Paul’s time? They believed that the glory of Rome will be forever. Though she perished, the kingdom of God will be our eternal background, authority, and blessings. The fact that Paul traveled to the superpower of that age and proclaimed of only God’s kingdom reveals important spiritual significance.
1) There are three coexisting kingdoms on earth.
① Satan’s kingdom. Though Satan cannot conquer or possess the world. There are forces of corrupt spirits. However, with his 12 strategies, he continues to deceive mankind and drag them into spiritual curses (John 16:11).
② World’s kingdom. As a superpower, it is easier to carry out Satan’s errands (Ephesians 6:12, Revelation 18:1-3). Sometimes the authorities oppress the people. The superpower sometimes takes control of the weaker nations’ politics and economy.
③ God’s kingdom. The triune God reigns and His authority, power, and blessings show. After resurrection and before ascension, Christ had his disciples concentrate on this kingdom of God for 40 days (Acts 1:3)
2) How can we enjoy this kingdom of God?
① Within you (Mark 17:21). The state in which you enjoy the Holy Spirit (Romans 14:17). This is the reason we must worship, listen to the voice of God, and pray every day, every moment, and inside every problem and circumstance. Receive guidance of the triune God, and enjoy the authority, power, and blessing of God’s throne. Then, the blessing of summit will come (Genesis 41:38, 1Samuel 3:19, 1Samuel 16:23, 2King 6:9).
② Within your studies and work (Matthew 6:33). That is when you receive the blessing of skills summit (Genesis 39:5). No matter what you do, receive God’s governance. Receive the help of God’s kingdom and do it for God’s kingdom. Give him the first hour of your day, and do all small things, studies, and work within His word and prayer. That is when doors will open in your field and disciples begin to rise (upper room ministry, team ministry, mission home, specialized church, regional church).
③ Within all your evangelism and missions fields (Matthew 12:28). That is when you receive the blessing of culture summit (Acts 8:4-8).
All flow will change, and you will find evidence of healing and even financial blessings. This is the ministry and message which Paul concentrated on and enjoyed for himself.
- Who became the way for us to enter God’s kingdom and become God’s people?
He who set us free (priest), became the way (prophet), and looks after us eternally (king). He is Christ. That Christ will raise us up as witnesses to the ends of the earth. This is the absolute covenant (Acts 1:8).
1) A Church that proclaims this Christ and is filled with people who believe and confesses this Christ will never fail. As promised in Matthew 16:16-19, absolute blessing (rock), absolute victory (gates of Hades), and absolute answer (keys to kingdom of heaven) will be fulfilled. Coronavirus, 4th industrial revolution – do not worry. There are separate blessings and answers that we will enjoy.
2) Truly pray and support the servants of God and missionaries who proclaim this Christ as apostle Paul did. Our prayers, missions offering, and all our devotion will come to us as the blessing of protector, coworker, and supporter in Romans 16.
3) In Christ, we are royal priesthood, and 70 layperson evangelism disciple that will save the world. There are about 5,000 ethnic groups that have yet to hear the gospel. That is about 40% of the human population. There may be people representing those 237 nations here in America. There also may be people connected to these 5,000 tribes around you. They may be here for studying abroad, immigration, or in relation to the military.
Conclusion – God’s kingdom’s summit means you are representing the kingdom of God (2Corinthians 5:20). May you restore this identity, enjoy the background, authority, and power of God’s kingdom, and stand as witnesses of Christ who is the King of the kingdom of God.
The Summit of God’s Kingdom (Acts 28:30-31) 7/26/2020 July 26, 2020The Answers of the 1st, 2nd, 3rd RUTC:
People Who Heal the World (Acts 28:1-10) 7/19/2020
The corona pandemic has created a fear of diseases in people, and oppositely, has made people put effort to stay healthy. According to specialists, there have been more than 100 types of viruses that have been formed up to now. Are diseases caused by viruses the only thing to fear? Mental diseases are severe as well. There is something even worse. It is a spiritual disease. There are many physical diseases that hear demon voices, hallucinate under affliction, and even become demon-possessed. Luke 4:40-41 says that demons fled, and people were healed when Jesus placed his hand on people who had all types of diseases (lingering diseases that Shamans experience are also spiritual disease). It says that when Jesus came to earth, He took compassion as he spread the Gospel and healed all weaknesses and diseases (Matthew 4:23, 9:35-36). This was the reason Jesus died on the cross. He said this while training the disciples and sending them off. “Heal the sick, raise the dead, cleanse those who have leprosy, drive our demons. Freely you have received, freely give” (Matthew 10:8). He also said, “heal the sick and spread the kingdom of God”(Luke10:9), as He sent off the 70 laymen disciples. What does this mean? What is the sickness mentioned here, and how can we do what it says? May the believers who have a fear for this virus or diseases, believers who are fighting diseases, and all believers receive the same answer.
- There is true healing that only a believer can do.
In other words, it is a healing that only God can do, and healing that only those who know the authority of Christ can do. God has entrusted this to us. This is helping people receive salvation for their souls. This is the healing of all healings.
1) This is the beginning of all healings, and the conclusion of all healings is this as well.
① The one difference between humans and all animals is that humans are beings who possess a spirit.
This is what it means to be created in God’s image (Genesis 1:27, 2:7). All problems began when this spirit separated from God, became sick, and died(Ephesians2:1).
② This is the 6 curses that unbelievers face.
As humans separated from God, they do not simply live to wander around not knowing where they came from and where they are going (Ephesians 2:1). Unbeknownst to themselves, they are being controlled by the fallen spirit, the spirit of Satan (John 8:44). That is why they participate in idol worship which worships demons (1 Corinthians 10:20, Colossians 3:5). This connects to mental problems (Matthew 11:28-29), create physical diseases (Acts 8:4-8), create eternal curses (Hebrews 9:27), and is relayed as a curse to the posterity (Exodus 20:4-5).
2) Where did this begin? It may be my sin and transgressions. It may be my ancestor’s problems.
Fundamentally, this curse began when Adam was deceived by the devil and fell (Romans 5:12). Jesus Christ died to solve this problem (Priest). Through His resurrection, He destroyed the authority of Satan who is the root of that curse (King). Now, He is with me and will eternally become my way (Prophet).
3) Healing in all of my life takes place even when I simply accept this Christ as the master of my life.
A person in a coma wakes up, diseases caused by the works of demons disappear, and even diseases of Shamans end when they simply accept Christ.
① The life of Christ, eternal life, and spiritual life accompany me the moment I accept (soul salvation).
It is a blessing to be eternally joyful and eternally thankful (1 Peter 1:8-9).
② The authority of Christ is within me (Luke 10:19), and the Holy Spirit works at that moment (Matthew 12:28). Demons flee and diseases caused by that will be healed when one truly realizes and enjoys. These can never be done by doctors or psychiatrists (they call it a type of “projection”).
- There is a healing that needs to be done through a spiritual battle.
This does not mean to practice exorcism of casting out demons like a shaman or Catholic priests. If you continuously receive spiritual strength and enjoy it through a continuous relationship with God (worship), you can be victorious in three battles. It makes a healing.
1) A battle with myself. In other words, it is a battle with the memories of old scars, bad feelings, and incorrect habits within me.
This cannot be done with my strength. These things will disappear or be buried as much as we receive the strength that God gives. It goes the same in the fight with viruses. This is the reason we must continuously hold onto the word and receive God’s strength in prayer (with).
2) A battle with the world. Endless temptations come from the world. It is the world’s culture of corruption. Many disease come from our sin(John 5:14)
You must enjoy the kingdom of God within yourself (Luke 17:21, Romans 14:17). Otherwise, it will be lonely and scary to live in the world and you will always be deceived by temptations. The Triune God will be with you with His angels (Immanuel). He will allow you to meet people who you can accurately share this faith in the places you go and go together (oneness).
3) A battle with Satan. Satan tries to reveal things and deceive us.
Satan tried to discourage Jesus through the disciple’s unbelief (Matthew 16:23) of selling him with money (John 13:17) and even denying him (Luke 22:31-32). He planted a disease to Paul(II Corintians 12:7). Do not be discouraged and be at a point where you can ignore Satan’s temptations (1 Thessalonians 5:16-18).
- There is a healing that the evangelist must enjoy while holding onto the covenant.
This is the healing we see through Paul in the passage.
1) The storm ended as promised and he returned to the island, but now he was bitten by a snake.
It was to a point where the islanders thought that he was cursed (verse 4). However, after seeing that Paul had no ill effects, they thought he was a god (verse 6). This was so that he may save people who were spiritually ignorant and afflicted with idol worship.
2) After this incident, Paul gets invited to the chief official’s house and heals his father’s fever and dysentery.
Healing the sickness is important but think about why these works may have happened. It was to share the gospel with them. We are praying with the mission to save 237 nations, and furthermore, there are still tribes like this. We are within the line of an evangelist of this age, and we are walking the journey of an evangelist. Raise an evangelism plan, pray for souls to evangelize, and devote yourself for it to become a continuous evangelism system in the place you are in. We have been promised Mark 16:17-20.
Conclusion – We are people who have the covenant to save and heal this age. May you stand as ones who are victorious no matter what problems or diseases come and stand as those who possess the evidence of a true evangelist.
People Who Heal the World (Acts 28:1-10) 7/19/2020 July 19, 2020The Answers of the 1st, 2nd, 3rd RUTC:
Absolute Thanksgiving Amidst a Storm (Acts 27:33-37) 7/12/2020
There are two types of people when encountering life’s crises and storms. There is one who fears that a problem will become bigger despite it actually being a small problem. This is different from preparing ahead for a problem that is to come. Their fear develops and results in them running away, falling into despair, and even giving up. What should a person of true faith do? They should hold onto the fact that there are an answer and separate blessing that God has surely prepared behind problems, pray during those times, restore their faith, and be at a place where they can give thanks. The ship that Evangelist Paul boarded was caught by a storm. It was not an individual’s fault. The owner of the ship, captain, and even the Centurion did not listen to Paul’s advice (Acts 27:11). Although a storm may have come due to my mistakes, God says that He will even change that into blessings if I truly repent and start anew (1 John 1:9, Romans 8:28). How does Paul portray himself at that time? He receives God’s answer while praying (Acts 27:23-24). He restores true faith (Acts 27:25). However, 14 days passed despite having that faith (verse 33). Now, this was enough for them to be discouraged, skeptical, and fall into despair. Instead, it said that Paul brought bread from somewhere and gave thanks to God in front of the soldiers (verse 35). The Greek word “eucharisteo” for “Give thanks to God” means “to be thankful,” and also has a deeper meaning of being thankful for God’s grace. Jesus used this word when having communion after his miracle of the five loaves and two fish. This is where the saying “Gratitude creates miracles” comes from. A person of God has countless things to be thankful for. Thanksgiving for salvation, thanksgiving for receiving grace, thanksgiving for the solution for problems, and thanksgiving amidst tribulations. Faith is being able to give thanks in all circumstances and being able to give thanks before death later on. You will be happy when you can give true thanksgiving. You will experience continuous answers. How will you experience miracles through thanksgiving and experience true happiness and answers continuously? We can do world evangelization of saving and blessing the world with the evidence that comes from experiencing this blessing.
- Hold onto God’s absolute covenant. From that, the faith to give thanks comes forth.
What is the covenant? The entire Bible is the covenant. However, we must hold onto at least three absolute covenants. No matter what problems you have or what problems reoccur, it does not matter. It is rightful and inevitable. Whether it may be personal problems or problems of this age, those are rightful problems (Genesis 3), and problems that are inevitable before the Lord returns (Matthew 24).
1) God sent His son Christ to solve all of those problems (Acts 1:1). It is a covenant of an absolute answer.
He finished the authority of sins, curses, fate, Satan, and hell through the cross and resurrection (John 19:30). Hold onto this absolute answer.
2) He promised that the kingdom of God will take place wherever a saved person goes (Acts 1:3). It is a covenant of absolute mission.
Although Satan does all types of evil things on earth, the forces of darkness will crumble, and God’s kingdom will take place when we pray in the name of Christ (Luke 17:21. Matthew 12:28). We are those who enjoy a heavenly background and its authority (Philippians 3:20, Hebrews 1:14, Luke 10:19). Enjoy this mystery and fulfill the kingdom of God in the place I am at (This is evangelism and mission).
3) He promised the works of the Holy Spirit to us who are nothing but weak (Acts 1:8). It is a covenant of absolute power.
We are weak, but we are strong. We can do anything. Why is this so? It is because we have these three absolute covenants. Look unto the power that lets us be strong when we are weak (2 Corinthians 12:9) and receive strength to soar on wings like eagles (Isaiah 40:31).
- Hold onto God’s absolute reason. Live with a reason that leaves God with no choice but for Him to work.
God surely works within this world with your conclusion, especially for his people (Psalms 121:4-8).
1) There is a reason why God must use me who is saved and holding onto the covenant (Acts 1:8).
“You will be my witnesses to the ends of the earth,” (Acts 1:8). It’s not a command but a promise. This is why God must change all the problems in this world, all disasters we face personally, pain, and tears into evidence.
2) Even our smallest devotion while loving God becomes a reason for God to work (Romans 8:28).
When Hezekiah was on his death bed from an illness, fifteen years were added to his life when he prayed while holding onto this covenant (2 Kings 20:3-6). Jesus said what we do for the Lord’s church, the Lord’s servant, evangelists (Matthew 10:41-42) and the least is like doing it for Him. (Matthew 25:40).
3) Resolving and praying(vowing) for God’s will becomes a reason for God to work (Psalms 50:14-15).
There was Hannah’s vowing prayer (1 Samuel 1:11). Daniel resolved and prayed (Daniel 1:8). There is Esther’s prayer where she prayed “If I perish, I perish” for her people (Esther 4:16). There is Paul’s vow from the passage as well (Acts 18:18). What was Paul’s vow? It was a prayer for Rome Evangelism (Acts 19:21). God confirmed that (verse 24).
- We have seen God’s absolute answers that followed after in advance and are going forward.
It did not matter even if a storm came and there was a time in which all hope was lost. How does God answer?
1) God gives us a word that will surely be fulfilled when we truly hold onto the covenant and look upon God (Psalms 107:20).
“A servant of God (angel of God) stood beside me and said” (verse 23), the servant of God here is an angel and also a being who delivers the word. Absolute works begin when believers surely listen to God’s word from the pulpit and restore their faith (1 Thessalonians 2:13).
2) When we hold onto the word, God moves angels to fulfill that very word (Psalms 103:20).
Despair is what is visible, however, it becomes a miracle because the works of the Holy Spirit that are invisible takes place through angels. It is called “Supernatural (divine) providence, power” in theological terms. He gives evidence that transcends nature’s principle and the laws of earth.
3) The really important absolute answer is to meet the people that have been prepared to be saved within that.
When Paul gave thanks to God and prayed amidst the storm and despair, all the soldiers on that ship watched. They saw the fulfillment of Paul’s faith, confession of faith, and proclamation in the end. Why is this important? They were the ones that God had prepared. That is why the number of 276 people was mentioned (verse 37). Individuals who accompanied Paul when he shared the gospel in Rome would have been one of them. They are the ones who become absolute disciples. Who is the disciple? Who know the Christ and saw the work of God through the Christ is the disciple. They devote for the Christ.
Conclusion – We can tell who a person is when problems and disasters come. Some people see answers as problems, and some see problems as blessings and prepare for the next. They are the evangelists. May you experience this absolute thanksgiving and absolute answer.
Absolute Thanksgiving Amidst a Storm (Acts 27:33-37) 7/12/2020 July 12, 2020The Answers of the 1st 2nd 3rd RUTC:
True Thanksgiving and the Blessing of the Holy Spirit (Deuteronomy 16:9-12) 7/5/2020
The Lord told all the Israelites to remember the three seasons (Passover, Pentecost, Ingathering) every year while passing through the wilderness.
Passover commemorates the freedom from 400 years of slavery that the Israelites gained after applying the blood of the lamb. What does that represent? It is a reminder to never forget the fact that we were eternally freed from our sin, curses, and hell through the blood of Christ, who is the lamb of God, and became the ones to save this world. We are within Christ, who is our eternal answer.
Now, God desires to save the world through us. However, it cannot be done with our own strength. That is why God promised us the blessing of the Holy Spirit. He gave us the Feast of Harvest, which is also known as the Pentecost, meaning 50 days after Passover. The reason why the same day has two different names is that each title entails its unique covenant.
- The name Feast of Harvest focuses on being grateful for the first fruit and all blessings.
Verse 10 says, “Then celebrate the Festival of Weeks to the Lord your God by giving a freewill offering in proportion to the blessings the Lord your God has given you.”
1) God has given us so many blessings.
We have received the eternal blessing of salvation and the identity of being His child. That blessing is incomparable to anything else. Regardless of the problems, calamities, and failures we face on earth, God will never let go of us.
2) “Giving a freewill offering in proportion to the blessings the Lord your God has given you” does not simply mean give offering.
① It is asking us if we truly have thanksgiving in our hearts for everything in our lives. Faith is not simply hoping and desiring for what we want. That may be mere greed. True faith is trusting in God’s faithfulness(covenant), being thankful for all our blessings, and entrusting all of our future to Him. Therefore, faith without thanksgiving is not faith (Psalm 50: 23).
② The Greek word for “I believe” (πιστεύω, pistévo) contains those three things. Faith without being faithful about Him, having gratitude toward Him, and having full trust in Him is not real faith. Rather, you will have complaints, resentment, discouragement, and despair. Restore the faith that gives thanks for all your past, present, and future. God will take care of everything (Psalm 50:14-15). 2. The name Pentecost focuses on the blessing of the Holy Spirit that we must enjoy while we live in this world. As Jesus ascended to heaven, His promised Holy Spirit came upon this day of Pentecost (John 14:16, Acts 1:4-5, Acts 2:1). There are three blessings we must enjoy through the work of the Holy Spirit. That will save ourselves, and the world.1) True freedomThere are five types of freedom (internal freedom, moral freedom, political freedom, financial freedom, religious freedom). The Bible says that all of mankind is bound and oppressed by those things. ① What was the start of such things? It was when the first Man Adam was deceived by Satan and became separated from God. All life became bound by sin, curses, the world, Satan, fate, and hell. ② To put it simply, what is the reason Jesus Christ came? It was to free us from all our shackles (Acts 10:38, John 8:32, Galatians 5:1). That is salvation (Colossians 1:13-14). Israel in the Old Testament has a history of being oppressed by seven superpowers (Egypt, Philistia, Aram, Assyria, Babylon, Persia, and Rome). God had allowed it to show what it means to be oppressed, and what it means to receive salvation from it. ③ The Holy Spirit allows us to enjoy this freedom that Christ gave. “The law of spirit of life set you free from the law of sin and death.”(Romans8:2). If it were not for this Holy Spirit, we are far from the five freedoms we mentioned. Even after salvation, we live under oppression. When the Holy Spirit leads us, our families, and this nation and the world, we find true freedom. This is why we must spread the gospel of Christ and pray with the authority of His name. 2) Absolute powerWithout the Holy Spirit, how will be save this world full of scars, problems, suffering and disasters? ① Joseph, who was sold as a slave by his brothers, enjoyed this blessing. The King acknowledged him (Genesis 41:38). Wherever you are, you can enjoy this blessing when you yearn for the filling of the Holy Spirit and pray. That is the blessing of spiritual summit. David enjoyed this by praying and praising the Lord while he tended the sheep. That is why remnant training is so important. After being anointed by Samuel, David became a different person (1Samuel 16:13). That time schedule will come. ② The 120 people of Mark’s Upper Room who were uneducated, failures, powerless, and persecuted enjoyed this blessing. When the Holy Spirit like fire and wind came, they were not themselves. There is no need to try and discard or change yourself. Nothing can be done by your own strength or efforts. Pray for only the filling of the Holy Spirit. That is the best prayer topic (2 King 2:9, Luke 11:13). When the Holy Spirit works inside you (with), in your field (Immanuel), and in the church (oneness), everything will open up. That is the work of Acts 2 (lips, eyes, doors, 3000 disciples, every day). ③ Do you see yourself in weakness, disease, and powerlessness? That is the opportunity to experience the power of the Holy Spirit deeply (2Corinthians 12:9). Later, you will be able to see the work that God fulfills regardless of your own standards and levels. One day, you will confess that “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me” (Philippians 4:13). 3) Blessing of onenessWhat is the result of freedom and spiritual strength? We can unite the world in Christ (Verse 14). ① This is the last prayer that Christ prayed for his beloved disciples (Prayer of the Priest of John 17).
“…Just as you are in me and I am in you. May they also be in us so that the world may believe that you have sent me. I have given them the glory that you gave me, that they may be one as we are one— I in them and you in me—so that they may be brought to complete unity. Then the world will know that you sent me and have loved them even as you have loved me.” You must enjoy this with your family, at your workplace, at church, and all your fields. This is called a peacemaker (Matthew 5:9).
② Who tries to take this away? Who creates conflicts, quarrels, violence, and war? It is Satan. This is why the Bible tells us not to sin in our anger or let the sun go down while you are angry (Ephesians 4:26-27). ③ Who is the one that truly unites us in our families, our workplace, and the church?
It is the Holy Spirit. (Ephesians 4:2-3 “Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love. Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace”). Pray for this work of the Holy Spirit to take place within you. The Holy Spirit will help you become united with God, your families, other church members, your disciples, and remnants.
Conclusion – On this day of Feast of Harvest and Pentecost, may you enjoy true thanksgiving and the blessing of the Holy Spirit that will be the evidence of your faith.
True Thanksgiving and the Blessing of the Holy Spirit (Deut 16:9-12) 7/5/2020 July 5, 2020The Answers of the 1st, 2nd, 3rd RUTC:
The Future of our Church that We Must Prepare (Acts 20:28-35) 6/28/2020
The aftermath of an illness can be scary, just like the aftermath of problems and failures. What is the aftermath of this COVID-19 pandemic? It may seem like everything is on hold, but lots of things are undergoing great changes. The 4th industrial revolution that will go beyond the scope of mankind is rapidly approaching. They are working with genetic modifications, artificial intelligence, and cloning of lives. This age will experience three kinds of aftereffects (religious or spiritual aftereffects, educational or aftereffects of our posterity, and financial aftereffects).
What is the last of the aftereffects that will follow? Churches will crumble. Jesus had already prophesized in Matthew 24:6-13. In the end times, many calamities (wars, famine, earthquakes, and epidemics) will come but even that is only the beginning. People will hate and divide within the church, many will leave faith, and false prophets will taint the gospel. In other words, if the church loves one another, becomes united in faith, and truly holds onto the gospel, it will withstand any and all problems. The Early Church and the churches throughout history remained victorious amidst many tribulations and difficulties. They stood as the church of the age that saved the world.
In the passage, Paul gave the same message to the elders of the church in Ephesus. The church of Ephesus was one that Paul raise up in tears and later entrusted to Timothy, his son in Christ. Apostle John ministered this church even after Paul’s martyrdom during Emperor Nero’s time, Timothy’s martyrdom, and much persecution that followed.
Paul asked them to prepare for the three things that will come. He warns that the salvage wolves will come and not spare the flock (verse 29), and men will arise and distort the truth in order to draw away disciples after them (verse 30). Age after age, these things repeatedly happened. Now in the end times, God has entrusted the church of Christ to us. How shall we save the church? We are the ones to save the church, the posterity, and people of all nations.
- We must find the absolute value of the church.
1) Verse 28 says that God has bought the church with his own blood.
① In the old testament, people sacrificed the lamb to shed its blood for every worship. That is representative of the blood of Christ.
The gathering of the individuals who held onto that covenant in the old testament is called the old testament church. The church is not just a building. It is a place of gathering for those who hold onto the blood covenant of Christ.
② Christ shed his own blood on the cross to make us holy and gave us life as he resurrected. By that blood and life, God established the church. That is how all the churches in the new testament were established.
2) As long as the church is inside the gospel, Christ himself will hold on no matter what (Matthew 16:16-18).
① On this rock. No matter what, it will not crumble. The problem is that the church has lost hold of this gospel of Christ. They do not know the authority of Christ. They are tainting the gospel and the authority of Christ with legalism, religion, mysticism.
② Gates of Hades will not overcome it. It does not matter what Satan attacks with. As long as we are within Christ, we will have victory. All we need to do is to have spiritual battle. The essence of spiritual battle is the assurance and enjoyment of those who possess the authority of Christ. We are troubled when we do not know this spiritual authority, or when we are lost in fear, worries, and discouragement.
③ I will give you the keys of the kingdom of heaven. Praying in the name of Christ is a tremendous thing. It is okay if your immediate problems are not being solved or answers are not coming. The state in which you are able to enjoy the authority and power of heaven is what is important. As time goes on, your life itself will be the answers and you will experience the opening of the door of heaven.
- We must discover and enjoy realistic blessings of the church. What are the realistic blessings?
1) You yourself is the church (1Corinthians 3:16 “Don’t you know that you yourselves are God’s temple and that God’s Spirit dwells in your midst?”) Christ is with us through the Holy Spirit. When you are alone, try to enjoy this “with’ (24). When Joseph was in prison as a slave, he enjoyed this (Genesis 39:3, 5, 23). As David tended his father’s lamb, he also enjoyed this “with.” That is how David built his spirituality. Because God was with Samuel, not one word that he spoke fell to the ground (1Samuel 26:19-28). This is when individual evangelism takes place.
2) Wherever you are in your field is the church (Joshua 1:3 “I will give you every place where you set your foot, as I promised Moses”).
God is with us wherever we are (Immanuel). The ones who realize this is able to begin mission homes and regional churches. When Isaac held onto this covenant, God blessed him wherever he went (Genesis 26:19-28, source of wells, Rehoboth, complete victory). As God sent Joshua, He told him to enjoy this. “the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go” (Joshua 1:9). This leads to field evangelism.
3) The place that the individuals who enjoy these two blessings of the church gather is the temple (Acts 2:46 “Every day they continued to meet together in the temple courts”). Every time you come to the place of worship and to worship, you will experience gratitude and effervescence, as if you are standing before the King (Psalm 100:4). At a church that individuals who are victorious in their fields gather, whenever they go back into the field, they are strengthened. With this mystery, move forward into the 237 nations. All nations will become one in Christ (237 oneness missions).
- In the meantime, we are praying for the future of the church (remnant ministry). Concentrate on three things to support.
1) Help remnants so that they can discover their own mission. Those remnants will become the summit team that leads the church and the world.
The most fundamental mission is having spiritual summit training. There are definitely things that they could do individually (talents). When problems come, do not worry about solving them, but rather discover what mission God desires to carry out through you.
2) Help the remnants hone and develop their talents. Individuals with specialties can help.
This is why we are having these internships and academic camps this summer. Through this, an internship team will form within the church.
3) With the word of God, counsel the remnants and have forum with them. Every department needs these kinds of forums.
Share the covenant that you held onto, prayers that you prayed, and answers that you received. Together, you can save the church.
Conclusion – “In everything I did, I showed you that by this kind of hard work we must help the weak, remembering the words the Lord Jesus himself said: ‘It is more blessed to give than to receive’” (verse 35). It is not because you have too much for yourself. It is also not because you have been given many things. May you hold onto the covenant regarding the future of your church, enjoy the best of blessings, and give true devotions.
The Future of our Church that We Must Prepare (Acts 20:28-35) 6/28/2020 June 28, 2020The Answer of the 1st, 2nd, 3rd RUTC:
Which Way Am I Going (Acts 20:22-24) 6/21/2020
Evangelist Paul often compared life to a race. It says, “Therefore I do not run like someone running aimlessly,” in 1 Corinthians 9:26. If there is no reason or purpose behind my running, that is just wandering. Some people run hard to find a way. They are only struggling. 2 Timothy 2:5 states, “Similarly, anyone who competes as an athlete does not receive the victor’s crown except by competing according to the rules.” This means that cheating to get to the desired place is not how it should be done. There is a Korean proverb that goes, “If it is not a road do not walk it, and if it does not make sense, do not listen to it.” Before being martyred, Paul confessed “I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith,” in 2 Timothy 4:7 and stood before God. The passage is Paul’s confession before he went into Rome, the ‘ends of the earth’ of that age. Although he knew that many tribulations were awaiting him before going to Rome, he still “finished his race” that was rightful, inevitable, and absolute. People are depressed, frustrated, and are unable to see which way to go (no way) as the COVID-19 pandemic continues. The second most read book by Christians after the Bible is the book entitled, “Pilgrim’s Progress.” It is a book that well explains how to be triumphant with faith as one goes down the way where he leaves this earth, the “City of Destruction,” and goes towards an eternal city, the “Celestial City.” It is Father’s Day. May you strengthen and comfort your Father as you remember his labor and devotion. Father must question, which way am I going as a Father, and am I going well?
All believers and remnants should question themselves. “Which way am I going? Am I going the way that I must go? For things to work out right now, to receive answers and to be successful is not what is important. If I go the way that God desires, no problems will matter and there are blessings that God has separately prepared everywhere I go. The 7 remnants and people of God took this way. We will remember at least the three ways that God desires from the passage. Go with that assurance.
- We are going the way that God has prepared (Covenant Journey, Way of the Covenant People).
To us who have been saved and become children, no problem and conflict that comes in our way matters. We are going the way that God has prepared.
1) The word in which Jesus said, “I am the way, the truth, and the life,” is a tremendous covenant. It is an eternal covenant.
① He became the way to meet God and even took responsibility for the way to go to Heaven.
Everything on earth changes but He does not. That is why He is the truth. Our life and death are all in Him, and it is an eternal life no matter when death may come.
② He came with three authorities to fulfill this covenant.
He has solved all our sins and curses as He died on the cross with the authority of the Priest (Romans 8:1-2). He has crushed the head of Satan with the authority of the King and has said that He will surely have Satan crushed underneath our feet (1 Corinthians 15:15, Romans 16:20). He became our way through the authority of the Prophet and is forever with us through the Holy Spirit (John 14:16-18). This can never change. It is an eternal covenant.
2) There is a covenant to hold onto within the eternal covenant of Christ in the way I am going in life.
① God will use me as the one who will save and heal this age (covenant of the age).
In the end, all the problems I face are problems of this age. God will allow us to heal and let us become ones who receive evidence there.
② For that, He will give us evidence as one who will save the land, country, and region I am living in (regional covenant).
Hold onto the reason I must live in America, in Washington D.C, and the absolute reason why I have become a member of One Mind Church. This is especially the reason why I must accurately hold onto the pulpit message, meditate, and hold onto it as my covenant (Acts 2:42, 1 Thessalonians 2:13).
③ At that time, the answers I will receive, the accurate time schedule, and the work I must do will become visible (personal covenant, my CVDIP).
No matter what problems come, do not be discouraged, in despair and afraid. It is a process of God’s CVDIP being fulfilled and a time schedule.
- We are going the way that God will use (Evangelist Journey, the Way of the Evangelist).
If I am a person of the covenant, then live my 24 hours thinking, “how does God want to use me?” Eat, study, do business, and everything else for this (1 Corinthians 10:31). That is what living for God’s glory is.
1) How can we live a life that is used by God? That is God’s grace.
① God used Paul who used to persecute and stand against the church as an evangelist who saved the world like this.
That is why He confessed, “However, I consider my life worth nothing to me; my only aim is to finish the race and complete the task the Lord Jesus has given me – the task of testifying to the good news of God’s grace (verse 24).
② Hold onto my insufficiency, incompetence, scars, failure, suffering, and all as a time schedule to experience God’s grace.
Romans 5:20 said, “But where sin increased, grace increased all the more.” Look at myself that can’t be without God’s grace. A person who has experienced grace from within can give true devotion. That is how deep things come forth (deep thanksgiving, deep prayer, deep devotion). That is when God’s absolute answer that overcomes me comes forth, and I will inevitably confess that it could only be done by grace (1 Corinthians 15:10).
2) It is not only a level where problems become irrelevant. It is going with knowing the problem, the loss, and unfair treatment that will come.
Paul knew that there would be tribulations along the way he went through Jerusalem to go to Rome. That was not all he knew. He knew that in the way where he held onto God’s absolute grace, absolute power would be revealed (this is 25 hours). Abraham was able to sacrifice Isaac through this faith that held onto this absolute grace and power (Hebrews 11:19), Daniel and the three friends went into the fire with this faith, and Esther confessed, “If I perish, I perish.”
3) Confirm two things when problems and crises come. Question this before God and concentrate.
Am I a person who has the gospel and a person who will live as an evangelist? Even if there may have been any persecution, damage, or loss, the Lord said that He has prepared a hundred-fold of that (Mark 10:29-30).
- This earth is not everything for us. Go down the eternal way that God has prepared (Journey of Heaven, Pilgrim’s Way).
1) There will be a day where we leave this earth and stand before the throne of God’s glory (eternity).
There are a separate glory and reward we will enjoy that day. It said that God will wipe our tears that we shed for the gospel and evangelism (Revelations 21:4). We will reap all the seeds (hidden prayer, labor, devotion) we sowed on that day (Galatians 6:7-9).
2) Be triumphant today as you look to that day and the things above (Colossians 3:1-4).
The Lord said that we will bear much fruit (John 12:24) if we deny ourselves and are willing to die for Him (Matthew 16:25). Living may be harder than dying. If that is for the gospel then we are living a life of a martyr (living martyrdom).
Conclusion – Which way are we going right now? Who are the ones going with us? May you enjoy this blessing.
Which Way Am I Going (Acts 20:22-24) 6/21/2020 June 21, 2020The Answer of the 1st, 2nd, 3rd RUTC:
The Reason I Must Live in the United States (Acts 19:21) 6/14/2020
For the last three weeks, we have been thinking about the absolute plan, absolute grace, and absolute evidence that God had bestowed upon the Antioch Church to change the world and save all nations. The passage relays the heartfelt prayer and confession of Paul, who the five multi-ethnic leaders gathered to pray and commission out as a missionary, as he enjoyed the realistic blessings of world evangelization. “I must visit Rome also.” In English, it is expressed as something he must do. As Paul thought of Rome, he held onto three of God’s absolute plan- heavenly mandate, calling, and mission. Why is this particular confession evermore important to us who live in America in this age?
- Paul saw Rome, the superpower of that age, as the “end of the earth.” Here, he held onto his heavenly mandate.
The Lord gave us the final covenant, “you will be my witnesses to the ends of the earth” (Acts 1:8). Why was Rome the end of the earth for that age? Why is the superpower nation, the United States, the end of the earth for this age?
1) It is the nation in which sharing the gospel is the most difficult and many conflicts and disputes arise.
Thousands of churches are closing their doors every year. Churches will continuously face more and more hardships and persecution. We know that the highest number of Christians died during the age of Rome. The greatest corruption of Christianity took place post Roman age.
2) Why was and is it so hard to share the gospel in Rome and the United States?
It is because idol worship, humanism, and all of the world’s powers – three of which God despises the most – are concentrated in these nations. The history that began from the Babel Tower movement of Genesis 11 will manifest as the fall of Great Babylon in Revelation 18. The three features of the Babel Tower and the Great Babylon are idols, humanism, and the collection of the greatest powers of the world.
① Idols – As immigrants from all over the world flooded in, they brought their own idols with them. Revelation 18:2 calls the place a dwelling for demons and impure spirits. The representative movement is the New Age movement that began in the United States. Many are openly claiming as worshippers of Satan.
② Humanism – In nicer terms, it means “let us think and live as fully human; stress the potential value and goodness of human beings.” However, spiritually, it defies God and puts mankind in the center of all thought and ideologies. This produces individual selfishness, collective selfishness, and national selfishness. The three greatest philosophies of the 20th century that is based on the theory of Evolution blossomed here in America (pragmatism, existentialism, and behaviorism).
③ All of the world’s powers and authorities are gathered here. The United States’ politics, economy, and military are immensely powerful enough to move the world.
3) People do not realize that in such a nation like America, most serious and endless calamities and suffering are around us.
① America has the highest record of depression, drugs, mental illnesses, school shootings, and other various violent crimes.
② It breaks our hearts to see that America now has the greatest number of confirmed cases and deaths from COVID-19.
- What was the reason Paul embraced the thought of visiting Rome in his heart? It was his calling.
God had called him. There are things that only evangelists who possess the gospel can do. Let us look at three examples from the Bible that tells us how important it is for us to realize this calling in our lives.
1) The case of Lot who lived a life of complete failure in the land of Sodom and Gomorrah.
He went into that land with only physical greed (Genesis 13:10) in hopes of living better and achieving more success. However, he did not realize that God’s judgement would be upon that land. He did not gain anything. In fact, he lost everything.
2) The case of Priscilla and Aquila who were evicted from Rome.
① Aquila was a Jewish man who married a Roman lady named Priscilla. In Rome, he was successful with his tentmaking business. In the time of Emperor Claudius, he was forced out because of his international marriage. We know and share the confusion of identity that many children of international marriages experience in our church.
② However, Priscilla and Aquila met Paul in the region of Corinth and heard the accurate gospel that changed their lives. They became Paul’s lifelong coworkers (Romans 16:3-4). The Church of Corinth began in their home (1 Corinthians 16:19). Later, their family was used in God’s absolute plan to go back and save the nation of Rome.
3) The case of Paul in today’s passage.
① Paul was a citizen of Rome. He was originally a Jewish man, but because he was born in Tarsus, Cilicia, he obtained a Roman citizenship (Acts 16:37, 21:39). When the Jewish land was colonized by Rome and people were in misery, Paul was able to enjoy the privilege of being a Roman citizen. Up until he realized the real gospel and his calling for Roman evangelization, that was the extent to his life (just a privileged life).
② Right now, Paul wants to go into Rome to save it. Rather, he confesses that he absolutely must go. When we realize the gospel of Christ and God’s heavenly mandate as we hold onto our calling, God will show us what we need to do. Only then, will our suffering, pain, and small tasks become blessings of uniqueness and evidence that save people and change the world.
- What did Paul seek to do in Rome? It was his mission. What must we do with our lives?
1) Do not jump into doing anything but begin with prayer. The prayer of a watchman for this world (Isaiah 62:6-7).
Sodom and Gomorrah did not perish because they became corrupt. The perished because there were not even 10 righteous men who thought and prayed about God’s desire (Genesis 18:24-32). Who can save and change the United States? Only God can (Romans11:26). Then, we will be able to see what we are to do.
2) In our workplace and/or region, begin with one individual to save.
① Save one individual of different ethnicities and concentrate on one disciple. This is the beginning of the 5 biblical evangelism systems.
Do so with open and empathetic hearts in servitude. That is the heart of Christ (Philippians 2:1-5).
② When you meet someone like that, accurately explain to them the gospel of Christ (Luke 2:10).
When you explain the spiritual problem of mankind, the Son of God who came as Christ with the three authorities, three privileges in Christ(Mt16:16-18), and the 7 blessings of a child of God that becomes yours when you accept Christ, the Holy Spirit will work.
3) As you pray and share the correct gospel, you are fighting three wars that you cannot see with your eyes.
Spiritual warfare (to break down the 12 trap and snares of Satan that works within individuals and the world) cultural warfare (to overturn the spiritual flow of this world full of darkness), summit warfare (to raise remnants that will experience the gospel and the power of the holy spirit and be used by God).
Conclusion – We are navigating difficult times. Nonetheless, God has promised his absolute blessing, answer, and evidence for those who hold onto his heavenly mandate, calling, and missions amidst all of this (covenant journey). We are the ones to save America, the Rome of this age.
The Reason I Must Live in the United States (Acts 19:21) 6/14/2020 June 14, 2020The Answers of the 1st, 2nd, 3rd RUTC:
Church That Changed the World Amidst Tribulations (Acts 13: 1-3) 06/07/2020
It may seem as though the world has halted due to COVID-19, but it has rather been changing more urgently. During these times, a private enterprise launched a spacecraft with astronauts into orbit and back. They are preparing to live away from the earth. Also, it is said that specialized jobs as well as many other jobs will disappear within the next ten years because of artificial intelligence that represents the fourth industrial revolution. This means that only a few who control the artificial intelligence will be needed. The UN sent a robotic medical team to Africa. It is said that the majority of people will live as a “precariat” who are low wage and low skill laborers wandering around and worrying about how to put food on the table each day. Numerous books that discuss the secret in surviving without being replaced by artificial intelligence are being published. Everything will begin to be substituted online (online classes, worship, medical treatment). If this becomes habitual the most worrisome place that calls for prayer, is the church. Additionally, protests and even riots are taking place every day to fight against racial discrimination problems. These are expressions of willingness to change the world. Racial discrimination is not merely a problem of yesterday or today, nor is it only a problem of the U.S. It is truly a time of nobody, no-time, no-way, and nowhere. It is a disaster to the world but a tribulation for believers. Last week we shared about “the three absolute blessings of God to experience amidst tribulations.” Hold onto the covenant of God’s absolute plan, absolute grace, and absolute evidence for the saved people of God and be triumphant. This week let us hold onto the form of the Antioch Church as they prepared to change the world amidst tribulations, as a covenant. This Antioch Church which was raised by anonymous individuals who held onto God's absolute covenant became a church that saved and changed the world. God desires for us to be used this way (heavenly mandate), has called us (calling) and will use us (commission). Through the passage, there are three basic things we must prepare and challenge.
- Raising a multi-ethnic leader (disciple) who can save all the nations of the world.
Five multi-ethnic leaders were gradually raised as the Antioch Church revived (verse 1). They were pastors and elders. When looking at how two of them were commissioned as first missionaries, they were truly spiritual leaders.
1) Leaders are those who eventually change the world. They create change in each area.
Normally, people who are called leaders are equipped with at least three things.
① It means “one who goes beforehand” (the same meaning behind the word “presbytery”).
They are people who see the future, prepare for the future, and devote for the future before anyone else. This is where CVDIP comes from.
② They are people who can sympathize with others.
The word "sympathy" is used in English and Jesus became the model for this (Philippians 2:1-8, Hebrews 4:12). Speaking of the world, the head and theory are not all that exists. The heart needs to move and be hot.
③ They think creative thoughts of saving all people (recreation).
They think of saving people and do not try to sacrifice a single person. Jesus was also a model for this (Luke 15).
2) This is the key of the Gospel. This is the work that Christ has done with the authority of the Priest, King, and Prophet.
Christ lowered Himself, died to save us, suffered to become someone who relates and empathizes with us, had Satan who is our enemy on his knees, never gave up on us, and saved us so that we may prepare the future and eternity.
3) Those who can become one through this gospel need to become leaders.
① Why are multi-ethnic leaders important? From now on, many multi-ethnic pastors and church officers need to come forth from our church.
That is how we can go beyond language, race, and culture and embrace all people. This is God's heart.
② From the beginning, this was God’s will and heart. All nations were one from the start.
Where did the endless conflict, war, terror, and dispute between people start? These are problems of Genesis 3 (self-centered greed), Genesis 6 (centered on the flesh and appearance), and Genesis 11 (supremacy and hegemonism centered on success). This was what Satan did from the beginning. No one, not even politicians can solve this if the frames set by Satan are not broken down.
- Cultivating spiritual strength that can lead and change the world.
With what strength can we change the world? That is why the power of the Holy Spirit, spirituality, and the blessing of the spiritual summit has been promised.
1) The word, prayer, and evangelism are the mystery of enjoying this blessing. It is called the 3 today so that it may be enjoyed every day.
① The Holy Spirit works when the word is established within me (John 15:7).
This is why listening, reading, and meditating the word is important (Joshua 1:8, Psalm 1:1-3).
② I must certainly enjoy my own prayer time.
It is the mystery to surpass my standard, level, and norm (John 14:12-14).
③ A greater strength is given when I share the grace and blessing of this gospel that I enjoy (2 Timothy 4:2).
2) All the leaders who changed the world possessed this mystery (Abraham Lincoln, Wanamaker, Fanny Crosby).
It says that when they gathered and worshipped and fasted, the Holy Spirit spoke (verse 2). The blessing that we must enjoy the most in these difficult times is the blessing of prayer. At that time, God gives us a different strength and shows us a different work to do. The blessing of uniqueness is what comes forth from that.
- Raising future leaders who can lead and change the world. The remnant movement and RUTC movement is raising remnants.
Some people simply get along with others, and some save and raise others.
1) Much prayer, sacrifice, and devotion is need when it comes to raising a person.
That is why the Lord said to his beloved disciples, "Feed my lamb, take care of my sheep" (John 21:15). The lamb signifies young remnants and sheep signify all the weak believers. God compared Himself to a gardener (John 15:1-2). One bears fruit when the heart is included, time is given and there is labor.
2) Those who changed the world were evangelists and missionaries. We need to prepare them from childhood and raise them as specialist missionaries.
The missionaries who formed present-day Korea were prepared like this and changed the people who were poor, in difficulty and ignorant (Missionaries like Allen, Moffett, Underwood graduated college in their twenties and devoted themselves as missionaries and were commissioned).
3) This summer, the devotion of helping remnants is needed from each team of our church (internship team, medical team, military mission team, choir, teachers, etc.)
Form teams online and raise remnants. It says that the farmer who scatters the seed should be the first to receive a share of the crops (2 Timothy 2:6).
Conclusion – We who have the gospel are people who have all the things of God. Times of tribulations were opportunities for new beginnings when looking in the Bible and the history of the church. May you dream of a holy dream in the gospel during these difficult times and challenge yourself to holy work.
Church That Changed the World Amidst Tribulations (Acts 13: 1-3) 06/07/2020 June 7, 2020The Answers of the 1st, 2nd, 3rd RUTC:
Absolute Answers One Must Experience Amidst Tribulations (Acts 11:1-26) 5/31/2020
The Bible says that we will hear of many disastrous news, but there are things that await us afterwards. It says that the people of God will face tribulations (Matthew 24:9, 2Timothy 3:12). However, there is no reason to be afraid. God has given us the answer through His word and has raised up many witnesses who enjoyed the blessing of saving the world during such time of difficulties.
The Antioch Church from the passage becomes our important model. When our church first began, we held onto this covenant of the Antioch Church. It is of utmost importance for us to hold onto that very covenant and reflect on our church and on ourselves in this time of hardships. In verse 19, it says that those who had been scattered by the persecution that broke out when Stephen was martyred began the Antioch Church. “Those who had been scattered by persecution” can be called “diasporas” in a good way, or “refugees” in a lesser way. To these people, no one is there to help (Nobody). There is no way (No Way). It is a time of despair (No Time). They have nowhere to go (Nowhere).
The seven remnants of the Bible all went through such times. Perhaps, there are some among us that are experiencing hardships now, and there will undoubtedly be a day where churches and people of God will face hardships in the end times. All people of God must hold onto God’s absolute covenant. It is a blessing that only God can fulfill, only God can give, and only those who are within God can enjoy.
- God’s absolute plan. No matter what, saved people of God are within God’s absolute plan.
1) First, we must hold onto the absolute covenant given to us through Christ.
① Undoubtedly, Christ solved three fundamental curses through his death on the cross and resurrection. He finished the curses of original sin, curses of Satan, and eternal curses. We are no longer to be condemned or judged. We are the ones who will enjoy God’s blessings (Ephesians1:3-5). The Satan who destroyed Adam had brought us inexplicable failures and curses in our families and the world, but we will surely have victory (1Corinthians 15:25, Romans 16:20). Christ has become our way. Until the day we go to heaven, He will be with us, guide us, and work among us (John 14:6, John 14:16-18).
② We must come to a conclusion. Christ finished all problems, and no problem is really a problem (John 19:30). So if we truly hold onto the covenant and pray, how did He promise to answer us? Jeremiah 33:3, Romans 8:28, Acts 1:8.
2) No matter how weak and lacking and how we have nothing to offer, God will fulfill through the ones who hold onto the covenant. The people who lasted until the Antioch Church did not have any names nor any positions. God gave this covenant even to the Israelites who lost their land and were taken away as slaves (Isaiah 60:22).
3) We must train to change the base, level, and the standard of our thoughts. We must train to change our imprint, root, and nature.
① People of God with the covenant are constantly deceived because they think in a level that is lower than that of non-believers. Even non-believers say things like, “If you change your thoughts, your life will change” and “thoughts change your destiny.” If we do not have the Gospel, we are deceived by ourselves. However, we have Christ who gives us the covenant and fulfills it within us.
② The important fact is that they thought of evangelism even while they were chased down by persecution. When they realized that they were not chased but rather God had sent them, that place became the absolute field (Genesis 45:5).
③ There is something more important. Everyone only evangelized to the Jews, but there were some people that evangelized to the Greeks (verse 20). God was pleased with this. They were carrying out the work of saving all nations, which was God’s absolute desire. Be considerate to individuals of all ethnicities and TCKs, as you help and bless them. That is the heart of God.
- God’s absolute grace. God has promised the strength to fulfill the absolute plan in all circumstances and environments.
“Grace” (hen/chen, hesed, charis) means it is given by someone from above who sympathized and loved us.
1) Evaluate your current address accurately and acknowledge yourself honestly.
① This is why we go through problems and experience failures.
We must take a look at ourselves, who cannot go on without God’s grace. That is when you experience His absolute grace. All the people who were used greatly by God experienced this and stood up as someone who saved an entire age (Genesis 6:8, Romans 4:4-8, 1Corinthians 15:10).
② One of the reasons we cannot overcome our hardships is because we do not acknowledge our current addresses. In order to rescue someone from drowning, we must wait until he loses strength. This is like God’s time schedule. When you are evangelizing, pray and wait for God’s time schedule and for that individual’s time schedule as you treat them nicely.
2) Then, you can look upon only Christ and make Him your Lord and master (Galatians 2:20).
What does it mean, in verse 20, that these people proclaimed of the Lord Jesus? They spoke of the correct Gospel. This was possible because of their faith in looking only to Christ.
3) What was the result? In their small devotion and ministry, God’s greater grace was upon them. “The Lord’s hand was with them, and a great number believed and turned to the Lord” (verse 21). This story was spread to Jerusalem, and when a minister named Barnabas came, what did he see at the Antioch Church? (verse 22-23). May God’s grace come upon the smallest of things you do, and may that grace of God be seen by others.
- God’s absolute evidence. God fulfills whatever he has promised.
The Bible is a book of covenant and evidence. When we hold onto the word, we are walking the path of the covenant and witness.
1) To the church that was raised amidst persecution, God gave them the evidence of spiritual and numeric revival. “a great number of people were brought to the Lord” (verse 24). “brought to the Lord” means the Lord fulfilled and blessed them.
2) God gave the Antioch Church another important evidence.
“The disciples were called Christians first at Antioch” (verse 26). They were even acknowledged by the outside world. I pray that our remnants will become true Christians in all fields of this age. That is the real summit.
3) Financial blessings. The entire world was facing famine, but this Antioch Church was sending offering to the church of Jerusalem (verse 29). Such works arise when we hold onto the covenant that pleases God, possess the heart that pleases God, and do the work that pleases God.
Conclusion – In times of tribulations, the real will be distinguished (Luke 18:8), come forth as gold (Job 23:10), and be made white in the blood of the Lamb (Revelations 7:14). When we hold onto the absolute covenant of Christ, everything will be transformed into works of uniqueness and re-creation. May your hardest of times be a new beginning in which you hold onto God’s absolute plan, enjoy His absolute grace, and stand as the absolute witness.
Absolute Answers One Must Experience Amidst Tribulations 이동철목사 5/31/2020 May 31, 2020The Answers of the 1st, 2nd, 3rd RUTC:
Future Inside the Covenant of the Feast of Tabernacles (Leviticus 23: 41-44) 5/24/2020
God had the Israelites keep the Passover, Pentecost, and the Feast of Tabernacles as they were passing through the wilderness. Verse 41 of the passage called this a lasting ordinance. There are several covenants within that but in other words it is an ordinance regarding the believer’s future. This was important for the Israelites who were passing through the wilderness. How will we live our life from now on? Will we be able to go to Canaan? People fall into anxiety and worry before problems of the future, and that creates despair and depression and even progresses into mental problems. When we discuss future problems, this includes the individual’s future, our children’s future, and the world’s future. Stress levels are abnormal especially during uncertain times like this where we have had to stop everything and merely wait. There is the last future. It is an eternal future. Eventually, a time will come where I will have to conclude my life. How should I stand before the Lord at that time? The covenant of the tabernacle has given us an absolute, complete, and eternal answer regarding our future.
- The Feast of Tabernacles is a covenant that God has prepared a perfect future for His saved people (children).
1) First, the Feast of Tabernacles is a festival of thanksgiving given after people harvest the fruits of their years’ worth of labor.
① When farmers scatter seeds in the spring, they do so with the hope that these small seeds will bear fruit in the fall.
However, many people fail to enjoy this blessing. That is why people become discouraged, fall into despair, and eventually crumble.
② The reason why people are unable to live like that is because of the problem that started in Genesis 3.
As a result of Adam and Eve's fall, the ground was also cursed (Genesis 3:17-18). That is why despite the labor, people are empty-handed and unfairly robbed from.
③ To be saved means that we have been freed from the fundamental curse that began from Genesis 3.
Christ delivered me from my sin and curses as he died as my Priest on the cross (Romans 8:1-2), broke the authority of Satan that is still stealing lives (1John 3:8), and is with us through the Holy Spirit (John 14:16-18). We are no longer living a cursed life but have become ones who will enjoy God’s blessing. This is how we should give thanks for being saved.
2) As we go, nothing we face matters when we plant the seed of the covenant in our hearts and soul.
This is the reason they were told to build shelters and stay in there for seven days (verses 42-43). This is the conclusion of the days that were lived in those shelters.
① This is why we are told to believe that all the problems and incidents we face will come together for good works (Romans 8:28).
We are not in the level of living life being worried and anxious about our future. Know the conclusion that God has prepared and go forward (Covenant Journey).
② That is why the Feast of Tabernacles is not only for giving thanks for the things that have been given, but also for those that will be given (Deuteronomy 16:15).
This is called the thanksgiving of faith. It is a thanksgiving that is given from believing that God will fulfill what He has promised, and therefore, believing that you have already received it. Thus, pray with thanksgiving (Philippians 4:6), and be watchful with thanksgiving (Colossians 4:2).
3) The people of God became a witness of an age with this faith and saved the world (Acts 1:8).
① The word that David, who had the most hardships, frequently used the most was thanksgiving.
How does the Bible record His entire life? He died at a good old age, having enjoyed long life, wealth, and honor (1 Chronicles 29:28).
②Apostle Paul, who evangelized while facing the most hardships, had the most thankfulness (Ephesians 5:20, Philippians 4:6, Colossians 2:7, Acts 27:35).
If we hold onto the correct covenant and restore a correct faith, Satan will flee (1Peter 5:7-9).
- The Feast of Tabernacles is a covenant regarding the true fruit, blessing of faith, and in other words, the spiritual blessings that we must enjoy.
We are continuously deceived because we see the blessings that God gives with a materialistic, physical, and worldly standard.
1) This is the reason the Israelites repeatedly failed and crumbled. There was no water immediately and the roads were rough.
What was the problem that eventually came? It was the incident where they were bitten by spiritual problems, serpents (Satan) (Numbers 21:4-6). That is why it says to set our minds on things above and to put worldly things to death (Colossians 3:1-5). It means to long for spiritual blessings. This is the blessing that God wants to give us ("the spiritual blessings of the heavenly realms" in Ephesians 1:3-5).
2) Although there may not be other things or a lack of things, we will triumph even in the most despairing situations if we enjoy this blessing.
① This is the blessing that David enjoyed in Psalms 23.
He did not lack in anything because the Lord was His Shepherd (verse 1). He says, “the Lord prepares a table before me in the presence of my enemies, you anoint my head with oil and my cup overflows.”
② This is the blessing of the filling of the covenant, the filling of the Holy Spirit, the filling of faith.
The state of enjoying this blessing is called, spirituality and spiritual summit. God's absolute power (miracle) is revealed at that time (Luke 7:9, Luke 8:48, Matthew 17:20). It does not matter if problems are unsolved. God said that He will enable us to overcome everything (2 Corinthians 12:9-10).
3) The time of listening to the word, praying, and evangelizing is the time of enjoying this blessing.
Live like a farmer that plants this seed every 24 hours, every 365 days (this is the 3 today). You will surely stand in the place of a spiritual summit.
① Faith will be restored as much as I listen to the gospel word and as much as that word takes place in me (Romans 10:17).
② My time of prayer is the time to g into the deep places of God (John 14:12-14).
Jesus also followed the Father’s will in prayer, received strength, and lived a life of obedience (Mark 1:35, Luke 6:12, Mark 6:46). That is my worship prayer, scheduled prayer, continuous prayer, 24-hour prayer needs to be trained lifelong.
③ Faith will unwittingly form especially when I think of evangelism, pray, and want to save people.
The fruit that comes on top of that faith is Mark 16:16-20 (healing), Matthew 28:18-20 (disciple), John 21:15-17 (Remnant Ministry).
- The Feast of Tabernacles is a covenant regarding the eternal future and fruit that we will enjoy.
This is the reason they were told to stay in the shelters during the festival of tabernacles. All worldly things and even our flesh are temporary (2 Corinthians 5:1).
1) That is why we look upon only Christ (Hebrews 13:8) alone who is the same yesterday and today and eternal (24 hours).
We will experience the blessing of the heavenly background, the heavenly throne, that goes beyond my standard and level in our problems and incidents.
2) At that time, our life will become a fruit that God rejoices (John 15:8). He allows us to stand as an absolute witness (25 hours).
This is the reason the Feast of Tabernacles is also called the Feast of Ingathering. We individually will become holy fruits that will be placed in a heavenly warehouse. That is why saved people are also called “holy seed” (Isaiah 6:13). They are the remnants.
3) Lastly, everything we do will connect to an eternal blessing and answer (eternity).
This is why we were told to not let our left hand know what our right hand is doing, pray in our room, and store up in heaven (Matthew 6:1-6, 19-20). Especially, the souls that were saved through us will become our eternal prize and crown in heaven (Philippians 4:1, 2 Timothy 4:8).
Conclusion – We who are within the Gospel are within an absolute future that God has prepared. Within that, may you be victorious in your today.
Future Inside the Covenant of the Feast of Tabernacles (Leviticus 23: 41-44) 5/24/2020 May 24, 2020The Answers of the 1st, 2nd, 3rd RUTC:
The Blessing of the Pentecost Enjoyed in Mark’s Upper Room (Acts 2:1-4) 05/17/2020
God gave the Israelites three feasts when they were passing through the wilderness and gave a promise concerning three blessings that the saved person would enjoy. The three feasts are the Feast of the Passover, Pentecost, and Tabernacles. If the Passover is the answer to our past problems, then we can say that Pentecost is the answer to our present problems, and the Feast of Tabernacles is the answer to our future problems. If we are unable to enjoy the answers to these three problems, then we will continuously be deceived by Satan. Our past problems are mostly related to scars. It may seem that these scars will be forgotten with time, but it remains in the unconscious and subconscious. It affects my today in decisive moments. It repeatedly creates conflict and failure. This is the present problem. If this is repeated, there will be unknown worry, anxiety, and fear concerning my future. This is a problem of the future. This is the reason Job who was blameless, upright, and God-fearing (Job 1:1) crumbled at once to Satan (Job 3:25-26). What kind of conflicts and problems do you currently have? God gave answers to all the problems we face. That is the blessing of the Pentecost. Let us think about what the blessing within the Pentecost is and think about the meaning of the blessing of the Pentecost that started from Mark's Upper Room.
- The core of the covenant of the Pentecost is the blessing of the Holy Spirit that the saved person must enjoy.
We are conflicted as we live on earth even if we were surely saved (internal conflict hidden inside me, family conflict, conflict due to financial problems, conflict in the school or workplace, and even conflict in the church). These conflicts may have come from the hidden scars inside me or may have come from various circumstantial and reality problems. The problem is that there is a being that digs into these conflicts and causes me to fall into discouragement, breakdown, rage, despair, and failure. That is Satan (Ephesians 6:11-12). We cannot overcome Satan's scheme with our strength. He knows too well where he needs to touch for us to crumble. That is why God tells us to enjoy three blessings of the Holy Spirit. This is the core of the covenant of the Pentecost.
1) He will come as a “Helper” and be with us forever (John 14:16-18).
In English, it uses terms such as helper or counselor. Parakletos in Latin means “called to one’s side.” In 1 John 2:1, He is introduced as an advocate who helps when we fail.
① There is a most important work He first did (John 14:26).
He made known who Christ is and said that He will remind us of every blessing Jesus taught us. Even the Devil knows who Christ is. However, it is the works of the Holy Spirit that allows us to realize that Christ has finished all the problems of my life when there are problems and conflicts in my daily life. Christ has surely freed me from all my problems and curses, trampled the authority of Satan that is behind that, and stayed with us through the Holy Spirit to change everything to everything into evidence.
② Peace is the first blessing that comes when we realize Christ through the help of the Holy Spirit (John 14:27).
Believe that the Holy Spirit is with me within me when praying and pray to receive the help of the Holy Spirit. Thanksgiving will come unwittingly, and the peace of God will guard my heart and mind (Philippians 4:6). Waiting for the Holy Spirit to give you peace when you resolve to do something and start, is a life that is guided by the Holy Spirit.
2) There is spiritual evidence that arises in my field when the Holy Spirit works in me like this.
That is the Kingdom of God (Acts 1:3). We need to enjoy this within myself, my family, work, and in all fields. Especially when you do not have peace in you, realize that the forces of darkness are at work, and fight a spiritual battle.
3) There is a work this Holy Spirit desires to lastly do through me (Acts 1:8).
He desires to give me a different power, a heavenly power, and use me as a witness to save the world.
① This is the blessing that these people actually experienced in Acts 2.
My inside changed because the power of the Holy Spirit like wind and fire was at work. Fear, worry, and shame is no longer mine (verses 1-3). Following the Holy Spirit allowing them to speak, their mouths to share the Gospel opened as well (verse 4). The multi-ethnic people from 15 and more countries started to be visible (verses 9-11). Afterward, 3,000 disciples arose through them (verse 41).
② What it the final important part? It says they considered gathering in the temple as rightful, broke bread in their homes, and praised God.
They enjoyed the favor of all people in their own place and the Lord added to their number daily those who were being saved (verses 46-47).
- The blessing to hold onto in this is the mystery for my family to be used within the works of the Holy Spirit.
We must hold onto times like this where we are unable to go to church as an opportunity to enjoy the blessing that was enjoyed in Mark’s Upper Room.
1) Mark’s Upper Room was a house that was prepared to be a house that could be offered to be used by God whenever.
① Mark’s Upper Room, to be specific, was Mark’s mother’s house. She was a woman who lived alone with her son.
Jesus chose this woman’s house when looking for a place for communion with his disciples before He died on the Cross. It was God’s choice (Mark 14:14-16). She obeyed. It was a sudden request but accepted it as God’s will. Later on, Mark’s Upper Room church started as the disciples gathered there and prayed and experienced the works of the Holy Spirit (Acts 1:13-14).
② Mark was a young adult at this time. Due to his mother’s devotion, Mark became a figure that was used by God.
In the future, Mark becomes Paul's first mission team member. Although there was a temporary conflict because he faced many difficulties in the first mission trip (Acts 15:38), later on, he becomes Paul's coworker until Paul's very last moment (2 Timothy 4:11). The small devotion of a mother raised the son to stand in the line of the evangelist of that age.
③ There is the instance of Simon from Cyrene (Libya) who was forced to carry Jesus’ cross (Matthew 27:32).
His son Rufus also becomes one of Paul’s important coworkers in the future, and God blessed him to where Paul confesses that his wife is “my mother.”
2) Mark's Upper Room was a house that concentrated, prayed, and enjoyed the works of the Holy Spirit when the Early Church members were being persecuted.
Peter meets a Roman centurion while praying at Simon the tanner’s house (Acts 10:1-9). While Paul was looking for a place to worship and pray in Philippi, he receives the invitation of Lydia (Acts 16:13-15). At this time of worshipping at home, pray for the Holy Spirit to be at work in my house and to become a house that is used for evangelism and missions.
3) As the works of the Holy Spirit took place in Mark's Upper Room, it became a house that healed and raised many people. This is a Mission Home.
There was a room called sarangbang in slightly large houses which housed guests in Korea, and America had the same called Hospitality Room. May each of our houses become one that heals and saves people through the works of the Holy Spirit.
Conclusion – Mark’s Upper Room that was used for the works of the Holy Spirit to take place, is a blessing and evidence that we individually and our house must enjoy.
The Blessing of the Pentecost Enjoyed in Mark’s Upper Room (Acts 2:1-4) 05/17/2020 May 17, 2020