I press on toward the goal, to the extent of the prize of the high calling in Christ Jesus.*
In Christ I am called to run a race, it is my purpose, it is my destiny, it is the high calling of God in Christ Jesus. There is no other higher calling, no other reasonable service that is greater that I must present my body a living sacrifice for, no higher worship of God, no sacrifice acceptable to God in its place. If this is true that I have a high calling then it would do me good to know what it is. In running this race there are things that can easily weight us down, and there are obstacles placed in front of us. If I am called to run this race then knowing what this race is all about, what motivates, and how I should run is important. So let us begin.
let us run with endurance the race placed before us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the first to run and the finisher of faith...*
We are to run with endurance but first we look at Jesus who ran this race first. The Greek word here (ἀρχηγός (archēgos)) we translate as "first to run" as it has significance in regards to running this race. This word is also translated pioneer, champion, and author of faith. It means Jesus was the first to run this race, he led the way and is the Way. Jesus is the first-fruit of a new creation, first to run this race, and he is also the perfecter of the faith of those who follow him. In this he continues as an advocate, teacher, and trainer in this race we run. He ran the race placed before him and he leads the way for us. Why did he run the race? to bring us to glory. We will see glory is the purpose of running this race and Jesus is the hope of glory.
for it was appropriate through this one, also through whom all things exist, he led many sons to glory, perfected the champion of their salvation, perfected through suffering.*
Jesus championed this race to lead many sons to glory. The word champion here is also the Greek word archēgos meaning first to run, pioneer, author. He ran and championed the race, his victory is ours and is a way for us. He is also the guardian of our faith, as the concept exists the war has been won but the battles continue to be waged. Likewise, the great race has been won but individual races are the proving grounds of our faith, in which enduring we receive a crown. If the race is already won and finished then why run? There is a proving of the genuineness of our faith. This speaks of our calling, we are to make sure of our calling, of it being a purpose but also to motivation. Do we run for rewards or fear of punishment? The Law came through Moses which guardian Paul explains was like being held captive until Christ, and if you go back there you are no longer free and you forfeit this race. The Law had fear of punishment but Jesus came in fullness, of grace, and truth. The glory that was veiled under Moses is now full in Jesus Christ. We run the race toward glory, this glory we are being transformed into, from glory to glory. Into what? the glory of Jesus Christ, so that we become like him in character, thus he is the hope of glory.
who God chose to reveal among the races the glorious riches of this mystery which exists Christ in you, the hope of glory. This One we proclaim, bringing to mind to all men, and teaching all men in all wisdom so that we present all men mature in Christ.*
What is the goal of the Church? To present all men mature in Christ, or said another way to equip them to run this race. Why do the great in the kingdom of God become servants? to present all men mature in Christ or to equip them to run this race. This is the example Christ gives; who first but became last. What is glory but to become like Christ? And does this not speak of maturity, and purity, and holiness and to a people consecrated, set apart? Jesus equips us, all that we need for godliness and life, to those who receive him he gives the power to become children of God. Thus being born from above, of Spirit, we are partakers of his divine nature, and inwardly delight in his laws as we are now spiritual. He is the first to run who leads the way and the finisher, the one who completed this race, who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross and its shame, now sitting at the right hand of the Father, the champion, the finisher. Truly in spirit, we have won this race because of Him. In victory, the great race has been won but the proving continues, the testing of the genuineness of our faith. As an athlete enters other races to prove his training before the big Olympic race so is the proving of our faith. When we endure and finish each individual race here on earth there is a reward, a crown of life and righteousness. Or a crown of maturity. This is why it is a calling, not a duty, why it is a purpose, not stewardship, and why it is predestination, chosen by grace, not by works, so that we run in the power of God, not our own strength. The proper foundation, proper motivation is needed to endure.
Consider it all joy, my kinsman, when you encounter various ways of being proved, knowing that the proving of your faith produces endurance, now possessing endurance, you have its intended work; maturity, completeness, lacking in nothing.*
Enduring and finishing the race produces what? maturity. My kinsman, those called to run, count it all joy to be proven. To be called is to train and to run with purpose in which endurance is needed. If I am called to run and if the race is a proving ground of the training I have undergone so far then would I not consider it a joy that I am qualified to compete and prove myself in this race? joy to be proven great in the kingdom of God? greatness in the kingdom of God is based upon maturity, how I reflect the image of Christ, complete, whole, lacking in nothing. Yes, it is joy unless I run unwillingly and have a mindset of it being as a duty. Paul writes he boasts in not receiving money, so as to fully receive heavenly rewards, so as not to run unwillingly without purpose nor to run as stewardship in which one receives an earthly reward. The calling is to run this race, which can be said that we grow up into our salvation, into the full measure of the stature of the image of Christ, thus we see the purpose of the gifts is to build up or equip. The gifts are given according to the measure of the grace of Christ for the work of ministry, which is plainly to equip others to run this race. To be clear the church is not called to do good works but to equip, to prepare beforehand, which speaks of the church, its people being God's workmanship, a people set apart of the holy character of Christ. This workmanship will do good works because such a person has become mature, in the conduct and character of Christ. The calling is about maturity and perfection in Christ. If the calling is about something else then it will be against Christ, neglecting maturity. If becoming like Jesus is the goal of running this race then what matures, builds up, equips to run this race becomes very important.
I do not run a race aimlessly, I do not fight like one flailing the air.*
If a boxer boxed at air you would think him crazy but how many Christians run aimlessly? If I have not made sure of my calling then how can I run this race with purpose? If I were to run and fall back then I must ask if I were called to begin with. And if I do fall back where do I fall but into the hands of a living God? Who can judge such a person, who is immature? only God but we want to make sure of our calling, as those called do not fall back to become as the lost. I want to run the race according to the rules so as not to be disqualified or to box at nothing but air. Does not one compete in a race for a prize? so I am to run as an athlete competing for a prize. For example, I must self-discipline my body, push it past its natural limits, seeking that which is spiritual, not earthly, putting to death its desires for food that doesn't benefit me, and seeking food that endures unto everlasting life. I need to be able to discern when my body needs to rest and when I must endure, and press on. If I do not do these things then I will not finish the race. If this is my purpose then I will not run aimlessly, the mindset of Christ I will train to have and will have the proper motivation as it is God's will working in me. I live for Christ, not running aimlessly but with purpose and calling. The old covenant of the law, sacrifice, serving, and tithing in the temple did not perfect nor mature if it had Jesus would not have needed to run this race to show us the way.
Now, we all with unveiled faces, beholding in a mirror the glory of the Lord, transformed into the very image from glory to glory, even as from the Lord, spiritual.*
The Law had a veiled glory, not like the glory of the promised covenant which shines forth in the face of Jesus. The promised covenant was given before the Law thus it can't be overridden by another gospel as if there is one. Jesus is the first and the finisher, the alpha, and omega, the race begins and ends with him. We are not called in the flesh nor do we run in the flesh. Jesus created all things thus in him we are a new creation, called in spirit, and in Spirit being transformed into glory. Glory is to become like Christ and he is the hope of glory. The law of faith doesn't nullify the Law because of this very thing; we become spiritual and can fulfill the spiritual laws of God, unlike the carnal man. Fear is not the beginning of wisdom and understanding but Christ is, he is preeminent in all things, in the knowledge of him we grow in wisdom and understanding. His glory is surpassing in all things, he is the Way, Truth, and Life. And this is how we run the race, growing in wisdom, in the knowledge of Him. This is not running in the flesh but in spirit, not forfeiting grace, and not falling back in unbelief but pressing on, strengthened in faith. He is the perfecter of our faith, so we increase in faith and rest on the promises of God. James writes we mature by throwing off the judging mindset, submitting in meekness to the implanted word of God, who is Jesus, which is looking intently as into a mirror, into the perfect law which judges us, when we abide in his words it provides freedom. Being not a forget hearer, nor a judge, but a doer, one who walks in truth, practices truth, one who allows the discipline of the Lord to benefit them, as Godly discipline is for our benefit. What is the benefit? glory.
for they disciplined us for a short time according to their thinking. Now, he disciplines for our benefit, to share in his holy character.*
Glory is to share in His holy character. This is abundant life which can be received here on earth and is the reward given fully at the bema seat of Christ. Paul writes what is stored up for him is the crown of righteousness.* In Spirit we are righteous in Christ but the race is about our soul, becoming like him in his holy character. The concept is of the seed of God planted in us that grows up, the seed of righteousness and life in us when it matures bears fruit, which fruit you get leads into your reasonable service, to become holy, the end goal being the crown of life. If we truly are born of God we will grow up into righteousness as John writes the anointing teaches us to abide in Him. For the one who abides will overcome, he will not continue in sin. James writes for this purpose we submit in meekness to the implanted word of God. Human authority disciplines for what they think is best, but the discipline of Christ is to share in his holy character, transformation from glory to glory.
But I discipline my body and bring it into subjection by any means, that preaching to others this very thing I do not become disqualified.*
How can I teach others to run if I have not endured and won myself? How can I ask others to discipline their body if I have not, how can I preach if I am not mature? Can one become disqualified from running this race? Paul writes if he taught others to run this race in such a way yet did not himself run he would be disqualified.* The race, the trial, the test is proving so to endure and to win is to receive a crown. of what but of maturity? This is greatness in the kingdom of God, maturity in Christ. Paul, James, and Peter write of the need for endurance and as James writes when it has done its work it produces maturity. Thus the crown we receive at the bema seat in regards to the proving here on earth speaks of maturity. This is the glory here on earth, not the glory of men but of God, the glory that I am being transformed into the image of Christ, from glory to glory. Paul writes it is not like he has or will obtain it fully here on earth but he strives, he runs the race for this goal. The rewards here on earth are related to our maturity, thus if I have not been proven in this race how can I train another? How can children equip others to run this race if they have not run, not been proven?
holding on to the word of Life, so I boast on the day of Christ that I ran, not running in vain neither laboring in vain.*
How do we run? holding on to the word of Life to receive a crown of life. I already possess it, Jesus has taken hold of me, called me to run this race, so I run to make it my own. Jesus said we are to labor for the food that endures unto life, this is not like laboring for earthly food in which many followed him, no, he gives bread from heaven, the Word of Life, and Eternal Life. Paul writes what counts is to be a new creation and what strengthens is faith energized in love strengthens, and obedience which is to abide in the words of Jesus, to consecrate in your hearts Christ. What will forfeit this race? forfeiting grace, living to the letter of the law, to rules and regulations, forms of self-abasement of the flesh, living to principles of this world... Make the race about works like serving and sacrificing, tithing and giving, and serving, singing in the choir... What God desires is an acceptable sacrifice which is to become holy. Thus this is called our reasonable service, to be a vessel, a living sacrifice, prepared beforehand to do his will. We are not called to serve a church and its ministers as if they have a higher calling and vision from God, no. Unlike this type of leadership taken from the world and the old testament, Jesus said this is not to be so in the kingdom of God but the greatest in the kingdom of God become servants of all. Who are the great? the mature. Why do they now become servants? they have been proven, they have run the race, proven great, now they serve to equip others. Being great in the kingdom of God is about maturity which means we have been disciplined by Christ. Those who are mature, the great then become servants, to equip others to run this race. This is the example Jesus gave who was first but became last, humbling himself also leading in such a way.
So that the Law became our disciplinarian to lead us to Christ, that we might be justified by faith.
Also for the purpose of running this race in the new covenant, Jesus is our guardian, disciplinarian, teacher, and trainer. Jesus started and finished the race, whom after knowing that all was completed (τελέω (teleō)) Jesus said it is finished (τελέω (teleō). He finished the race. Those under the Law were under a guardian or a disciplinarian until Christ. Now, God disciplines those he loves, for this purpose Christ has become our judge, lawgiver, guardian or disciplinarian. James writes there is only one judge and lawgiver Christ, so if we judge we are no longer a doer, we no longer seek to run this race but to judge it.* This judging mindset is a sign of immaturity and forfeits grace, it is justified by works. Such a mind is trying to run the race in the flesh so it will not receive wisdom from God in regards to maturity, which is the goal of running this race. Judging is a topic many believers do not understand, one I am studying so you see me write about this in the future. For the purpose of running, this most precious and holy race, Jesus tells us to judge those who claim to be mature by their fruit so we do not allow the influence of those who claim to have run this race, who are not mature influence how we run this race. Why are we to judge the mature by fruit? these would put a stumbling block before us who run the race. Forfeiting grace is an issue Paul dealt with in the early church and is an issue today. We run under grace. The law of faith states there is a righteousness apart and we are justified freely apart from works of the Law.
We begin this race in the Spirit of grace and this is the way we finish. The race is not about earthly rewards but spiritual blessings that lead to maturity. Maturity is not a place to lord over others, nor a place for personal gain and legacies of men, but to live is Christ and to die is gain. Here we see a weed which the devil plants in the church, to choke out God's children, the legalist who forfeits grace. Seen as James writes in those who have a judging mindset. This injustice in judging, ignoring the plank in their own eye, and the curse of the law, will cause a root of bitterness that defiles many. This word for forfeit means "to be behind in place or time, to be in the rear; to fall short of."* Men who forfeit grace cause many to stumble, to fall behind in this race. Paul in many of his letters uses the analogy of running a race and in context, he uses the words, forfeit, defile, cut off, severe, stumbling blocks, obstacles, snares all which speak of what prevents one from running this race. The purpose of the race is about purity, not to be defiled by the world but to be pure from the world. Purity is to become like Jesus, holy and pure, and this is to what we are called. The judging mindset overlooks the plank in its own eye which is to overlook the curse of the Law which says if you break one small part you have broken it all. Like the Pharisees, many judge maturity by their works but they overlook the plank, the curse that says otherwise. In regards to maturity, such a judging mind will not receive wisdom from God, it will not endure the proving which brings maturity, so if such a mind is a child and not a weed they will remain a child.
lay aside all impediments, also the sin that so easily obstructs, run through endurance the race placed before us.*
because just as the one calling you is holy, also become you, become holy in all your conduct.*
In Christ I am called to run a race, it is my purpose, it is my destiny, it is the high calling of God in Christ Jesus. There is no other higher calling, no other reasonable service that is greater that I must present my body a living sacrifice for, no higher worship of God, no sacrifice acceptable to God in its place. If this is true that I have a high calling then it would do me good to know what it is. In running this race there are things that can easily weight us down, and there are obstacles placed in front of us. If I am called to run this race then knowing what this race is all about, what motivates, and how I should run is important. So let us begin.
let us run with endurance the race placed before us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the first to run and the finisher of faith...*
We are to run with endurance but first we look at Jesus who ran this race first. The Greek word here (ἀρχηγός (archēgos)) we translate as "first to run" as it has significance in regards to running this race. This word is also translated pioneer, champion, and author of faith. It means Jesus was the first to run this race, he led the way and is the Way. Jesus is the first-fruit of a new creation, first to run this race, and he is also the perfecter of the faith of those who follow him. In this he continues as an advocate, teacher, and trainer in this race we run. He ran the race placed before him and he leads the way for us. Why did he run the race? to bring us to glory. We will see glory is the purpose of running this race and Jesus is the hope of glory.
for it was appropriate through this one, also through whom all things exist, he led many sons to glory, perfected the champion of their salvation, perfected through suffering.*
Jesus championed this race to lead many sons to glory. The word champion here is also the Greek word archēgos meaning first to run, pioneer, author. He ran and championed the race, his victory is ours and is a way for us. He is also the guardian of our faith, as the concept exists the war has been won but the battles continue to be waged. Likewise, the great race has been won but individual races are the proving grounds of our faith, in which enduring we receive a crown. If the race is already won and finished then why run? There is a proving of the genuineness of our faith. This speaks of our calling, we are to make sure of our calling, of it being a purpose but also to motivation. Do we run for rewards or fear of punishment? The Law came through Moses which guardian Paul explains was like being held captive until Christ, and if you go back there you are no longer free and you forfeit this race. The Law had fear of punishment but Jesus came in fullness, of grace, and truth. The glory that was veiled under Moses is now full in Jesus Christ. We run the race toward glory, this glory we are being transformed into, from glory to glory. Into what? the glory of Jesus Christ, so that we become like him in character, thus he is the hope of glory.
who God chose to reveal among the races the glorious riches of this mystery which exists Christ in you, the hope of glory. This One we proclaim, bringing to mind to all men, and teaching all men in all wisdom so that we present all men mature in Christ.*
What is the goal of the Church? To present all men mature in Christ, or said another way to equip them to run this race. Why do the great in the kingdom of God become servants? to present all men mature in Christ or to equip them to run this race. This is the example Christ gives; who first but became last. What is glory but to become like Christ? And does this not speak of maturity, and purity, and holiness and to a people consecrated, set apart? Jesus equips us, all that we need for godliness and life, to those who receive him he gives the power to become children of God. Thus being born from above, of Spirit, we are partakers of his divine nature, and inwardly delight in his laws as we are now spiritual. He is the first to run who leads the way and the finisher, the one who completed this race, who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross and its shame, now sitting at the right hand of the Father, the champion, the finisher. Truly in spirit, we have won this race because of Him. In victory, the great race has been won but the proving continues, the testing of the genuineness of our faith. As an athlete enters other races to prove his training before the big Olympic race so is the proving of our faith. When we endure and finish each individual race here on earth there is a reward, a crown of life and righteousness. Or a crown of maturity. This is why it is a calling, not a duty, why it is a purpose, not stewardship, and why it is predestination, chosen by grace, not by works, so that we run in the power of God, not our own strength. The proper foundation, proper motivation is needed to endure.
Consider it all joy, my kinsman, when you encounter various ways of being proved, knowing that the proving of your faith produces endurance, now possessing endurance, you have its intended work; maturity, completeness, lacking in nothing.*
Enduring and finishing the race produces what? maturity. My kinsman, those called to run, count it all joy to be proven. To be called is to train and to run with purpose in which endurance is needed. If I am called to run and if the race is a proving ground of the training I have undergone so far then would I not consider it a joy that I am qualified to compete and prove myself in this race? joy to be proven great in the kingdom of God? greatness in the kingdom of God is based upon maturity, how I reflect the image of Christ, complete, whole, lacking in nothing. Yes, it is joy unless I run unwillingly and have a mindset of it being as a duty. Paul writes he boasts in not receiving money, so as to fully receive heavenly rewards, so as not to run unwillingly without purpose nor to run as stewardship in which one receives an earthly reward. The calling is to run this race, which can be said that we grow up into our salvation, into the full measure of the stature of the image of Christ, thus we see the purpose of the gifts is to build up or equip. The gifts are given according to the measure of the grace of Christ for the work of ministry, which is plainly to equip others to run this race. To be clear the church is not called to do good works but to equip, to prepare beforehand, which speaks of the church, its people being God's workmanship, a people set apart of the holy character of Christ. This workmanship will do good works because such a person has become mature, in the conduct and character of Christ. The calling is about maturity and perfection in Christ. If the calling is about something else then it will be against Christ, neglecting maturity. If becoming like Jesus is the goal of running this race then what matures, builds up, equips to run this race becomes very important.
I do not run a race aimlessly, I do not fight like one flailing the air.*
If a boxer boxed at air you would think him crazy but how many Christians run aimlessly? If I have not made sure of my calling then how can I run this race with purpose? If I were to run and fall back then I must ask if I were called to begin with. And if I do fall back where do I fall but into the hands of a living God? Who can judge such a person, who is immature? only God but we want to make sure of our calling, as those called do not fall back to become as the lost. I want to run the race according to the rules so as not to be disqualified or to box at nothing but air. Does not one compete in a race for a prize? so I am to run as an athlete competing for a prize. For example, I must self-discipline my body, push it past its natural limits, seeking that which is spiritual, not earthly, putting to death its desires for food that doesn't benefit me, and seeking food that endures unto everlasting life. I need to be able to discern when my body needs to rest and when I must endure, and press on. If I do not do these things then I will not finish the race. If this is my purpose then I will not run aimlessly, the mindset of Christ I will train to have and will have the proper motivation as it is God's will working in me. I live for Christ, not running aimlessly but with purpose and calling. The old covenant of the law, sacrifice, serving, and tithing in the temple did not perfect nor mature if it had Jesus would not have needed to run this race to show us the way.
Now, we all with unveiled faces, beholding in a mirror the glory of the Lord, transformed into the very image from glory to glory, even as from the Lord, spiritual.*
The Law had a veiled glory, not like the glory of the promised covenant which shines forth in the face of Jesus. The promised covenant was given before the Law thus it can't be overridden by another gospel as if there is one. Jesus is the first and the finisher, the alpha, and omega, the race begins and ends with him. We are not called in the flesh nor do we run in the flesh. Jesus created all things thus in him we are a new creation, called in spirit, and in Spirit being transformed into glory. Glory is to become like Christ and he is the hope of glory. The law of faith doesn't nullify the Law because of this very thing; we become spiritual and can fulfill the spiritual laws of God, unlike the carnal man. Fear is not the beginning of wisdom and understanding but Christ is, he is preeminent in all things, in the knowledge of him we grow in wisdom and understanding. His glory is surpassing in all things, he is the Way, Truth, and Life. And this is how we run the race, growing in wisdom, in the knowledge of Him. This is not running in the flesh but in spirit, not forfeiting grace, and not falling back in unbelief but pressing on, strengthened in faith. He is the perfecter of our faith, so we increase in faith and rest on the promises of God. James writes we mature by throwing off the judging mindset, submitting in meekness to the implanted word of God, who is Jesus, which is looking intently as into a mirror, into the perfect law which judges us, when we abide in his words it provides freedom. Being not a forget hearer, nor a judge, but a doer, one who walks in truth, practices truth, one who allows the discipline of the Lord to benefit them, as Godly discipline is for our benefit. What is the benefit? glory.
for they disciplined us for a short time according to their thinking. Now, he disciplines for our benefit, to share in his holy character.*
Glory is to share in His holy character. This is abundant life which can be received here on earth and is the reward given fully at the bema seat of Christ. Paul writes what is stored up for him is the crown of righteousness.* In Spirit we are righteous in Christ but the race is about our soul, becoming like him in his holy character. The concept is of the seed of God planted in us that grows up, the seed of righteousness and life in us when it matures bears fruit, which fruit you get leads into your reasonable service, to become holy, the end goal being the crown of life. If we truly are born of God we will grow up into righteousness as John writes the anointing teaches us to abide in Him. For the one who abides will overcome, he will not continue in sin. James writes for this purpose we submit in meekness to the implanted word of God. Human authority disciplines for what they think is best, but the discipline of Christ is to share in his holy character, transformation from glory to glory.
But I discipline my body and bring it into subjection by any means, that preaching to others this very thing I do not become disqualified.*
How can I teach others to run if I have not endured and won myself? How can I ask others to discipline their body if I have not, how can I preach if I am not mature? Can one become disqualified from running this race? Paul writes if he taught others to run this race in such a way yet did not himself run he would be disqualified.* The race, the trial, the test is proving so to endure and to win is to receive a crown. of what but of maturity? This is greatness in the kingdom of God, maturity in Christ. Paul, James, and Peter write of the need for endurance and as James writes when it has done its work it produces maturity. Thus the crown we receive at the bema seat in regards to the proving here on earth speaks of maturity. This is the glory here on earth, not the glory of men but of God, the glory that I am being transformed into the image of Christ, from glory to glory. Paul writes it is not like he has or will obtain it fully here on earth but he strives, he runs the race for this goal. The rewards here on earth are related to our maturity, thus if I have not been proven in this race how can I train another? How can children equip others to run this race if they have not run, not been proven?
holding on to the word of Life, so I boast on the day of Christ that I ran, not running in vain neither laboring in vain.*
How do we run? holding on to the word of Life to receive a crown of life. I already possess it, Jesus has taken hold of me, called me to run this race, so I run to make it my own. Jesus said we are to labor for the food that endures unto life, this is not like laboring for earthly food in which many followed him, no, he gives bread from heaven, the Word of Life, and Eternal Life. Paul writes what counts is to be a new creation and what strengthens is faith energized in love strengthens, and obedience which is to abide in the words of Jesus, to consecrate in your hearts Christ. What will forfeit this race? forfeiting grace, living to the letter of the law, to rules and regulations, forms of self-abasement of the flesh, living to principles of this world... Make the race about works like serving and sacrificing, tithing and giving, and serving, singing in the choir... What God desires is an acceptable sacrifice which is to become holy. Thus this is called our reasonable service, to be a vessel, a living sacrifice, prepared beforehand to do his will. We are not called to serve a church and its ministers as if they have a higher calling and vision from God, no. Unlike this type of leadership taken from the world and the old testament, Jesus said this is not to be so in the kingdom of God but the greatest in the kingdom of God become servants of all. Who are the great? the mature. Why do they now become servants? they have been proven, they have run the race, proven great, now they serve to equip others. Being great in the kingdom of God is about maturity which means we have been disciplined by Christ. Those who are mature, the great then become servants, to equip others to run this race. This is the example Jesus gave who was first but became last, humbling himself also leading in such a way.
So that the Law became our disciplinarian to lead us to Christ, that we might be justified by faith.
Also for the purpose of running this race in the new covenant, Jesus is our guardian, disciplinarian, teacher, and trainer. Jesus started and finished the race, whom after knowing that all was completed (τελέω (teleō)) Jesus said it is finished (τελέω (teleō). He finished the race. Those under the Law were under a guardian or a disciplinarian until Christ. Now, God disciplines those he loves, for this purpose Christ has become our judge, lawgiver, guardian or disciplinarian. James writes there is only one judge and lawgiver Christ, so if we judge we are no longer a doer, we no longer seek to run this race but to judge it.* This judging mindset is a sign of immaturity and forfeits grace, it is justified by works. Such a mind is trying to run the race in the flesh so it will not receive wisdom from God in regards to maturity, which is the goal of running this race. Judging is a topic many believers do not understand, one I am studying so you see me write about this in the future. For the purpose of running, this most precious and holy race, Jesus tells us to judge those who claim to be mature by their fruit so we do not allow the influence of those who claim to have run this race, who are not mature influence how we run this race. Why are we to judge the mature by fruit? these would put a stumbling block before us who run the race. Forfeiting grace is an issue Paul dealt with in the early church and is an issue today. We run under grace. The law of faith states there is a righteousness apart and we are justified freely apart from works of the Law.
Take care that no one forfeits the grace of God; no root of bitterness grows up troubling, also causing many to be defiled.*
Running the race well, who cut you off? you were not persuaded in truth.*
The root word of faith means to be persuaded, faith persuades thus it is not a cause for stumbling but equips to run this race. The church of Galatia had been persuaded to run the race in the flesh, this persuasion was not of the truth which increases faith. The word cut off also is translated as hinder, it speaks of placing an obstacle in front of a racer to cut them off from running and it is also of the same concept of one causing a brother to stumble in this race. This holiest and precious calling, this inward beauty of a heart consecrated to the Lord, if one were to judge this heart causing a brother in Christ to to stumble in this race, he works against Christ, anti-christ. Jesus said to cause one of these little ones to stumble it would be better for them if a millstone were tied around their neck and they were cast into the sea. Some have a judging mindset, having built their house on sand, giving wisdom to them is like giving pearls to pigs. Paul uses strong words in regards to falling from grace, they sever themselves or cut themselves off from the blood flow of Christ.
you cut off yourself from Christ, justifying whomever, justifying in laws, you have fallen from grace.*
The root word of faith means to be persuaded, faith persuades thus it is not a cause for stumbling but equips to run this race. The church of Galatia had been persuaded to run the race in the flesh, this persuasion was not of the truth which increases faith. The word cut off also is translated as hinder, it speaks of placing an obstacle in front of a racer to cut them off from running and it is also of the same concept of one causing a brother to stumble in this race. This holiest and precious calling, this inward beauty of a heart consecrated to the Lord, if one were to judge this heart causing a brother in Christ to to stumble in this race, he works against Christ, anti-christ. Jesus said to cause one of these little ones to stumble it would be better for them if a millstone were tied around their neck and they were cast into the sea. Some have a judging mindset, having built their house on sand, giving wisdom to them is like giving pearls to pigs. Paul uses strong words in regards to falling from grace, they sever themselves or cut themselves off from the blood flow of Christ.
you cut off yourself from Christ, justifying whomever, justifying in laws, you have fallen from grace.*
The Galatia church fell from grace and was persuaded to run the race by another gospel as if there were another gospel. We hear today the concern that people would use grace as a license but in all of Paul's writings by far legalism is the biggest concern. The legalist Paul calls of the circumcision party because it starts with one requirement of the Law, what seems like a small thing from the Old Testament like the requirement to be circumcised, but then it becomes all about laws, like a little yeast that infects the whole lump. Today I would call them the "tithing party," they take one small thing, like requiring from the Law tithing, then they require more and more thus this mindset infects the whole. Like Jesus said of the unbelief of the people they claimed to follow Moses, but they did not even obey the Law and Moses. So they are today, they require tithing but do not even adhere fully to the laws of tithing. You can't pick and choose what part of the law you will follow and what you will not, if you require one part you have to adhere to it all. Of course the law of faith says no one will be justified before God by works of the Law. They started out running the race the right way, under grace in power of the Holy Spirit, but they were cut off. They gave up their freedom.
For freedom Christ has set you free. Stand firm therefore and do not submit again to a yoke of slavery.*
What yoke of slavery? Deceptive in the Galatia church was teachings that came from the Old Testament. Today they say it's in the Bible, its all the word of God. This church was cut off by their teaching, they were persuaded to go back to a works justified mindset, the same judging mind of those under the Law or of the circumcision party. These have the same judging mindset James writes of which will not endure the race into maturity. Paul writes if I judge and cause my brother to stumble, it is as if I place an obstacle before him while he is running this race. Jesus said what I do to the least of these his brethren I do unto Him. Important is what Jesus said in regards to our call to run this race, and to not cause others to stumble. Judge them by their fruit those who claim to be mature. Sure some might preach Christ, but for the purpose of this holy calling which is precious in the eyes of God, more so than gold and silver, judge, choose wisely those who truly live for Christ and his gain. A judging mindset that judges based upon works, overlooking the one thing they do wrong, has created a god in the image of the Old Testament, and is focused on earthly riches and is enforced by the idea that this god punishes evil and rewards good here on earth. James says it judges the rich man better than the poor. Think about that that it is very telling. This is a mindset under the Law, God punishes evil and rewards good. It will judge the poor evil and the rich good, rewarded by God. It will not help the brother in need because it judges him as being punished for evil. How can such a mind endure proving if it is seen as an act of judgment and condemnation by God? I will write soon of what the new covenant scriptures say about judging, as it is helpful in regards to getting rid of this mindset which will not mature.
Are you so foolish? having begun in the Spirit, do you finish at the present, the goal, in the flesh?*
By grace through faith we are saved... this is how we start and how we finish. Without grace how would we endure the call to participate in his suffering? The judging mindset that James writes about, one that is double-minded not receiving wisdom from God that matures, is one that forfeits grace, it is also one that has become bitter being judged unjustly itself. Today if we forfeit grace we run in the flesh, which is to sever ourselves from the blood of Christ, which he gave for a new covenant of grace. Also we neglect the law of faith that states we are justified by grace through faith apart from works of the law. These are the people of the Church of Galatia who started in the Spirit but fell from grace and severed themselves from Christ. They put much confidence in the flesh, they were running the race in the flesh, the wrong way. Paul writes they were persuaded by those of the circumcision party, who are dogs, mutilators of the flesh, and enemies of the cross.* These are harsh words but when it comes to the sacredness of this calling to holiness, judge by their fruit.
But accordingly the one calling you is holy, also become you...*
If I am called to run this race then I am called to holiness in character. Our call is to purification which is our consecration. This is seen as maturity also as putting off the old garments and putting on the new which is unstained, unpolluted, un-defiled, pure from the world. If we do many mighty works in his name, like helping orphans, but are not pure, we do not have pure religion, we do not exemplify his holy nature, we are not pure nor mature in Christ. We run the race to obtain such, and it is not as if we will fully obtain it here on earth, but we are called to this purpose. This is the whole concept of consecration, of being set apart, holy unto God; we are called to become holy. The concept of a pure Church being offered to God. We exist holy in Spirit, but are called to become holy in our conduct, this what we present our bodies a living sacrifice unto, and why it is our reasonable service and acceptable sacrifice to God.* The judging mindset is justified by works, ether works of the Law or good works. I help orphans, I serve, I tithe and give... it judges itself and others by such, even taking principles like "what would Jesus do," judging itself in maturity by such and judging others by these. Wisdom from God is not about living to laws and principles but it is about transformation, from glory to glory, becoming like Jesus.
For freedom Christ has set you free. Stand firm therefore and do not submit again to a yoke of slavery.*
What yoke of slavery? Deceptive in the Galatia church was teachings that came from the Old Testament. Today they say it's in the Bible, its all the word of God. This church was cut off by their teaching, they were persuaded to go back to a works justified mindset, the same judging mind of those under the Law or of the circumcision party. These have the same judging mindset James writes of which will not endure the race into maturity. Paul writes if I judge and cause my brother to stumble, it is as if I place an obstacle before him while he is running this race. Jesus said what I do to the least of these his brethren I do unto Him. Important is what Jesus said in regards to our call to run this race, and to not cause others to stumble. Judge them by their fruit those who claim to be mature. Sure some might preach Christ, but for the purpose of this holy calling which is precious in the eyes of God, more so than gold and silver, judge, choose wisely those who truly live for Christ and his gain. A judging mindset that judges based upon works, overlooking the one thing they do wrong, has created a god in the image of the Old Testament, and is focused on earthly riches and is enforced by the idea that this god punishes evil and rewards good here on earth. James says it judges the rich man better than the poor. Think about that that it is very telling. This is a mindset under the Law, God punishes evil and rewards good. It will judge the poor evil and the rich good, rewarded by God. It will not help the brother in need because it judges him as being punished for evil. How can such a mind endure proving if it is seen as an act of judgment and condemnation by God? I will write soon of what the new covenant scriptures say about judging, as it is helpful in regards to getting rid of this mindset which will not mature.
Are you so foolish? having begun in the Spirit, do you finish at the present, the goal, in the flesh?*
By grace through faith we are saved... this is how we start and how we finish. Without grace how would we endure the call to participate in his suffering? The judging mindset that James writes about, one that is double-minded not receiving wisdom from God that matures, is one that forfeits grace, it is also one that has become bitter being judged unjustly itself. Today if we forfeit grace we run in the flesh, which is to sever ourselves from the blood of Christ, which he gave for a new covenant of grace. Also we neglect the law of faith that states we are justified by grace through faith apart from works of the law. These are the people of the Church of Galatia who started in the Spirit but fell from grace and severed themselves from Christ. They put much confidence in the flesh, they were running the race in the flesh, the wrong way. Paul writes they were persuaded by those of the circumcision party, who are dogs, mutilators of the flesh, and enemies of the cross.* These are harsh words but when it comes to the sacredness of this calling to holiness, judge by their fruit.
But accordingly the one calling you is holy, also become you...*
If I am called to run this race then I am called to holiness in character. Our call is to purification which is our consecration. This is seen as maturity also as putting off the old garments and putting on the new which is unstained, unpolluted, un-defiled, pure from the world. If we do many mighty works in his name, like helping orphans, but are not pure, we do not have pure religion, we do not exemplify his holy nature, we are not pure nor mature in Christ. We run the race to obtain such, and it is not as if we will fully obtain it here on earth, but we are called to this purpose. This is the whole concept of consecration, of being set apart, holy unto God; we are called to become holy. The concept of a pure Church being offered to God. We exist holy in Spirit, but are called to become holy in our conduct, this what we present our bodies a living sacrifice unto, and why it is our reasonable service and acceptable sacrifice to God.* The judging mindset is justified by works, ether works of the Law or good works. I help orphans, I serve, I tithe and give... it judges itself and others by such, even taking principles like "what would Jesus do," judging itself in maturity by such and judging others by these. Wisdom from God is not about living to laws and principles but it is about transformation, from glory to glory, becoming like Jesus.
lay aside all impediments, also the sin that so easily obstructs, run through endurance the race placed before us.*
That which is an impediment, that which obstructs, or weights down, that which enslaves us, which keeps us from freedom, that which defiles us, and that which is an obstacle before us, we are to lay aside. Sin is an obstacle, it wars against our soul. Paul calls this race also a growing up into our salvation. Peter refers to this as the salvation of our souls. It is preserving of our souls, as evil wars against our souls. Paul writes though we are spiritual evil is near us, and sin is in our body, thus evil wars against our mind to bring us into captivity to sin. This is how sin so easily obstructs, weights down those who run so we do not endure. As endurance is the key to athletes finishing and winning, it is needed to finish the race placed before us.* This is why knowing our true calling is important. If we want to win we must have the right mindset which takes training and enduring. Enduring can only be achieved if there is a true motivation, a purpose. This is like destiny, I am called, I know this is my purpose, this is what I was destined or called to do. It is important that we make sure of our calling and we run for the right reasons. If our victory is already won then what motivates us is important, it is why we are chosen, called to run this race. If we are under grace and not motivated by the fear of punishment then what motivates us? is it earthly rewards? Is there something greater that motivates us? John writes perfection or maturity is not achieved in fear but in the love of God.* What about destiny and purpose? the will God provides to run. So we see the importance of a calling, of having a purpose and destiny, without such why run, why endure suffering and the proving?
Therefore since Christ suffered in the flesh, arm yourselves also with the same mindset, because the one suffering has finished with sin, to the extent that you no longer live your remaining days in the flesh, in human desires but the will of God.*
The Olympic athlete must be prepared beforehand, he must train and discipline his body, and be proven before he runs the Olympic race. How is he proven? does he just train and then show up hoping to run and win the Olympic race? He proves himself beforehand, he competes in smaller races to prove the genuineness of his training. This I believe is the crowns received, for each race we have won we receive a crown. The earthly athlete competes for a perishable crown, they receive glory and honor among men, driven by a purpose and destiny that perishes, the reward of an imperishable crown. These if they come before the bema with these perishable things, it will burn away, thus they have received their reward here on earth. We run for an imperishable crown and we are to arm ourselves with the proper mindset. The discipline of the Lord has great benefit to the one running this race. Christ gave us an example, the suffering is for a purpose, of putting to death the desires of the flesh and to be raised into newness of life. The training, the teaching, the discipline must have a proving ground. The race is to test the genuineness, if we are a doer, if we truly look into the mirror of truth. We are marked to run this race, Paul writes when we believe in Christ we are marked with the Holy Spirit. It is a sign of a people set apart, consecrated unto God. In regards to our victory Paul writes our born again spirit sits in the heavenly with Christ Jesus. Think about that, truly, the race has been won and running the race is also becoming who we are in Christ. It is also called growing up into our salvation, salvation of our soul, perfection or maturing in Christ, this all that we grow up into the full measure of the stature of the image of Christ.
and in no way be terrified by your opponents, existing a sign of destruction for them, at the present, salvation for you and that from God. Because it has been granted to you under Christ, not only to believe in Him but also to suffer under Him.*
Running this race we have opponents who would cause us to stumble and give up. Salvation is granted to us, and so is believing, Jesus is the author of faith, and belief is the work of God. Also, the Holy Spirit draws and grants. God calls us to run. The keys to the kingdom of God are not given so easily like many disciples found out who turned away when Jesus told them they must eat his flesh and drink his blood for eternal life. Being a new creation, endurance, and persistent in needed. Forfeiting grace is dangerous as many will try to run this race through confidence in the flesh. So again we see the importance of making sure of our calling. To the chosen, there is an equipping to a purpose, a destiny. We are called to become holy like Jesus. How? we are called to suffer under Jesus. We are called to the proving grounds, to run this race. How many Christians today believe we are called to participate in the sufferings of Christ? or that we are called to holiness? Paul writes our reasonable service is to present the body a living sacrifice to become holy. Think about this, presenting the body a living sacrifice. Is it not suffering to put to death the desires of the flesh? to discipline your body? to be crucified with Christ? Would not a mindset of a call to earthly blessings cause one to stumble when the proving comes? Such a judging mindset based upon a works justification is not just seen in legalism, it is seen in other ways, I tithe, I give, I serve... Not only do they justify themselves in works but also claim maturity based upon works. Humble yourselves, mourn, realize your lowly state, throw off such a mind, submit in meekness to the implanted word of God, the judge and lawgiver, then you will receive wisdom and be blessed from God.
because just as the one calling you is holy, also become you, become holy in all your conduct.*
If the Spirit of Christ is in you then you exist (to be, I am) righteous, holy, sanctified, justified in spirit which speaks of the internal testimony of Spirit and blood. In Christ, you exist a new creation. Can you judge a child? what kind of plant bears fruit? only a mature plant bears fruit. What about judging grain versus a tare? the net of the kingdom of God catches both good and bad. So you can only judge a mature plant, so judge those who claim to be mature. We are called to run this race and those mature, having been proven, are to equip the ones called. Truly, the calling to run this race is to become who we are in Christ. The word become means to come into existence as from growth which is unlike the word exist in that become speaks of growth, that which is produced. It is the idea of practicing truth which comes through growing up or maturity. We are formed, born of God but also trans-formed which means a continuation of the forming work of God. This distinguishes salvation into three areas; spirit, soul, and body. We exist in Christ and are called to become like Christ, which is becoming perfect, mature, pure, holy in our conduct which speaks of our character, which is our soul. This is the race we are called to run, Jesus is the first to run this race, leading by example.
And we know that all things work to assist the one, who loves God, the one existing called according to purpose.*
The word purpose means a thing laid out, put forth, it is from pro, "before" and thesis "a thing laid down." What has been laid down before us? the race. God has chosen us, and called us to a purpose in which he prepares us beforehand, "Many exist called but few are chosen."* We are to make sure of our calling.* To fall back is to fall into the hands of a living God.* Only God can judge such a person. Can we distinguish the wheat from the tare? not until fruit-bearing season. A child knows the Father and that his sins are forgiven. A falling back from this race would question my calling and is a fearful place to be, thus I should work out my salvation in fear and trembling. John writes if I am born of God, if God's seed is in me I will mature or grow up, I will abide, remain, continue, persevere, endure in this calling. And here is the promise we can rest in and have testimony of, He is working to assist those who are called according to this purpose. Christ is also the perfecter of faith who assists those called to run this race. "For existing God, the one working in you, both to will and to work on behalf of his good pleasure."* His divine power has given us all we need for life and godliness, so we press on running this race, resting upon the promises of God. It is not that we will obtain perfection here on earth, but we are called to run. The striving is to become like Jesus and we are to walk in that which we have already obtained, this confidence has a great reward. As an athlete knows to rest his body we do not run aimlessly but run with purpose and learn to enter into His rest. We have a purpose, not looking back, not beating ourselves up for that which we have not obtained but looking ahead to that which we are called.
On which account make this your goal, whether home or away, exist pleasing to him. For us it is inevitable, brought to light in front of the bema seat of Christ, so that each one obtains to that practicing through the body, whether good or bad.*
If we are called to run this race then it is inevitable that we will come before the bema seat of Christ. This is not the judgement of unbelievers, believers will be gathered here, those called to run this race. For those called is this a judgment seat or a rewards ceremony? What does it mean both good and bad is brought into the light? does this make the bema seat a judgment seat? giving an account for the bad? For the Olympic and Greek races, the bema seat was the platform from which the magistrate of the games awarded the winners. The fact that the athlete comes before the bema seat implies he finished the race and was not disqualified. Also notice both good and bad will be brought into the Light. Can this be a judgment seat if we are forgiven and sin is not counted against us? So what is Paul writing to us about the bema seat? Let us focus on this, "brought to light in front of the bema seat of Christ." What does the scriptures say about the Light? Jesus is the Light so what happens to darkness in the Light? or to the works that will not endure the testing? John gives us some insight into Jesus being the Light and how if we walk in darkness we are not in the Light. If we practice truth we also walk in the Light becoming pure, the light purifies us from sin. This I believe is the testimony of water, the purification of the body from sin here on earth. In fullness, the pure, the mature are those who do not stumble nor cause others to stumble. If we do stumble Jesus intercedes for us here on earth so that we grow up. Light exposes darkness, the light purifies and cleanses us from sin.
see the dogs, see the evil workers, see those who mutilate the flesh! For we exist the circumcision who worship in Spirit of God and boast in Christ Jesus, who have no confidence in the flesh. And I have much reason for confidence in the flesh... but whatever things existed gain to me, I regard as loss through Christ.*
Surely a judging mindset who justifies himself by works would want to make the bema about judgment for believers. What is needed in this race is what strengthens us, or equips us to run. This is not a focus like that of the world on its riches and external beauty but the inward beauty of a heart consecrated to God. The things of this earth will burn up, only that which is eternal will endure the Light. What endures the Light? the good works I do here on earth? or that I have become mature like Christ, doing good works? I believe the Light at the bema seat speaks of final purification, the bad will be purified away. The prophets speak of Christ as the refiners fire, the purifier. Peter writes the proving, is a proving by fire.* The purification speaks of a people set apart, consecrated, a people of God's own possession, a people circumcised in the heart by the Spirit, born of God, a new creation, a holy people. If I am called to run if it is my purpose why then do people try to have me submit again to a yoke of slavery?
this freedom Christ has set us free, stand firm therefore and do not subject again to a yoke of slavery.*
What yoke of slavery is Paul talking about? Surely sin is defiling, like eating from the altar of demons, we need to lay aside impediments but this is not the slavery Paul writes about here, the yoke of slavery is one that forfeits grace. Paul writes those that influenced the Galatians to slavery again were of the circumcision party. We could call it legalism but it is much more. James writes it is the double-minded man, with a judging mindset. It is the mind that judges itself and others based upon works of any kind. "Now, I declare to all men, circumcision exists obligating to obey the entire Law, you cut off yourself from Christ, justifying yourselves in the Law, you have fallen from grace. For we by Spirit through faith, look for this righteous hope."* If I am called it is my purpose I can not stay where I am I must press on. For someone to try and place a stumbling block before me and again enslave me to the flesh through false religion, how great is their cause for stumbling and their condemnation? The perfect law provides freedom, not slavery and leads to holiness which brings forth truth or the practice the truth. This is what matures; truth in love. Paul writes what counts is a new creation, faith energized in love and obedience to Jesus. We consecrate in our hearts Jesus as Lord for this purpose of maturity which is also yoking to Christ and is looking into the truth, the judge, not turning away.
In this rejoice at the present, necessary for a short time, sorrowful in various trials, so that the proving of your faith (more precious than gold that perishes proved by fire) now found to the praise and glory and honor in revelation of Jesus Christ.*
The trials are the proving grounds, the race is set before us to test the genuineness of our faith, or the proving of our training up to this point. When we endure, when we win this race in which there is a blessing, a crown is given to us. If we actually viewed trials this way we would find it all joy as to endure is to be blessed and the blessings which comes is maturity, becoming like Jesus, thus to live is Christ and to die is gain. Said another way the blessing is the glory meaning I am becoming more and more like Christ, transformed from glory to glory. For me to live is Christ. We will not mature if we have a judging mindset, as such a mind will not endure suffering and will not submit to the one judge and lawgiver Christ, it will not look intently into the perfect law that provides freedom. This unapproved mind will do many mighty works before it will submit to the truth. It will not abide in the words of Jesus which consecrate and transform thus they will not increase in faith and will not mature. This mindset is the natural, carnal mind, thus it can't judge the things that are spiritual neither can it discern the will of God and accept it as pleasing and perfect. What happens in transformation is the mind is renewed to be spiritual like the new inner person I am in Christ, so I have the mind of Christ. The natural mind will do every thing in place of and will not submit to this calling and reasonable service of becoming holy which ironiocally is the one sacrifice acceptable to God. Holiness is the high calling in Christ and the highest form of worship to God. For those coming before the great White throne of judgement God's wrath will be revealed, for them, there is judgment and condemnation. For those in Christ, there is judging here on earth, as James writes Christ is judge and lawgiver, and as Paul writes He disciplines those he loves, a whipping Paul writes.* Peter writes by his stripes we are healed which implies participation in his suffering.* He teaches, judges without condemnation, for our benefit, so we are consecrated.
Now, you are a chosen offspring, a royal priesthood, a holy people, a people of his own possession, by such means you declare the deeds of the one calling you out of darkness into his glorious light.*
The glory is that I am being transformed into is the deeds I declare to the world. It is how I declare Light and Christ to the world. What deeds or good works do I declare if the glory is that of Christ? Can I declare such glory through deeds alone? If I help orphans but am not sure do I declare His glory through my deeds? We are called out of darkness into glorious light. Glorious light speaks to what the light does, it purifies, it transforms from glory to glory, this is why it is also called our glorification. To be in the Light is to be purified thus the call to holiness is a call to purity. James writes pure religion is helping orphans and widows and being pure from the world. If I do many works but I am not pure, then I declare not glorious light and purity but only good works thus I do not declare the true glory of God. True agape love is manifested through the Spirit of God, thus when Jesus said the world would know we are his disciples by our love for one another such declares purity from the world. We can achieve principles of excellence, knowledge, self-control, and endurance in the flesh but true godliness also adds to faith brotherly and agape love as this is effective in running the race.* The bond of love leads to perfection, maturity in truth, thus perfection is in agape love.
the good race course I have contended in, the race I have finished, the faith I have kept.*
And we know that all things work to assist the one, who loves God, the one existing called according to purpose.*
The word purpose means a thing laid out, put forth, it is from pro, "before" and thesis "a thing laid down." What has been laid down before us? the race. God has chosen us, and called us to a purpose in which he prepares us beforehand, "Many exist called but few are chosen."* We are to make sure of our calling.* To fall back is to fall into the hands of a living God.* Only God can judge such a person. Can we distinguish the wheat from the tare? not until fruit-bearing season. A child knows the Father and that his sins are forgiven. A falling back from this race would question my calling and is a fearful place to be, thus I should work out my salvation in fear and trembling. John writes if I am born of God, if God's seed is in me I will mature or grow up, I will abide, remain, continue, persevere, endure in this calling. And here is the promise we can rest in and have testimony of, He is working to assist those who are called according to this purpose. Christ is also the perfecter of faith who assists those called to run this race. "For existing God, the one working in you, both to will and to work on behalf of his good pleasure."* His divine power has given us all we need for life and godliness, so we press on running this race, resting upon the promises of God. It is not that we will obtain perfection here on earth, but we are called to run. The striving is to become like Jesus and we are to walk in that which we have already obtained, this confidence has a great reward. As an athlete knows to rest his body we do not run aimlessly but run with purpose and learn to enter into His rest. We have a purpose, not looking back, not beating ourselves up for that which we have not obtained but looking ahead to that which we are called.
On which account make this your goal, whether home or away, exist pleasing to him. For us it is inevitable, brought to light in front of the bema seat of Christ, so that each one obtains to that practicing through the body, whether good or bad.*
If we are called to run this race then it is inevitable that we will come before the bema seat of Christ. This is not the judgement of unbelievers, believers will be gathered here, those called to run this race. For those called is this a judgment seat or a rewards ceremony? What does it mean both good and bad is brought into the light? does this make the bema seat a judgment seat? giving an account for the bad? For the Olympic and Greek races, the bema seat was the platform from which the magistrate of the games awarded the winners. The fact that the athlete comes before the bema seat implies he finished the race and was not disqualified. Also notice both good and bad will be brought into the Light. Can this be a judgment seat if we are forgiven and sin is not counted against us? So what is Paul writing to us about the bema seat? Let us focus on this, "brought to light in front of the bema seat of Christ." What does the scriptures say about the Light? Jesus is the Light so what happens to darkness in the Light? or to the works that will not endure the testing? John gives us some insight into Jesus being the Light and how if we walk in darkness we are not in the Light. If we practice truth we also walk in the Light becoming pure, the light purifies us from sin. This I believe is the testimony of water, the purification of the body from sin here on earth. In fullness, the pure, the mature are those who do not stumble nor cause others to stumble. If we do stumble Jesus intercedes for us here on earth so that we grow up. Light exposes darkness, the light purifies and cleanses us from sin.
see the dogs, see the evil workers, see those who mutilate the flesh! For we exist the circumcision who worship in Spirit of God and boast in Christ Jesus, who have no confidence in the flesh. And I have much reason for confidence in the flesh... but whatever things existed gain to me, I regard as loss through Christ.*
Surely a judging mindset who justifies himself by works would want to make the bema about judgment for believers. What is needed in this race is what strengthens us, or equips us to run. This is not a focus like that of the world on its riches and external beauty but the inward beauty of a heart consecrated to God. The things of this earth will burn up, only that which is eternal will endure the Light. What endures the Light? the good works I do here on earth? or that I have become mature like Christ, doing good works? I believe the Light at the bema seat speaks of final purification, the bad will be purified away. The prophets speak of Christ as the refiners fire, the purifier. Peter writes the proving, is a proving by fire.* The purification speaks of a people set apart, consecrated, a people of God's own possession, a people circumcised in the heart by the Spirit, born of God, a new creation, a holy people. If I am called to run if it is my purpose why then do people try to have me submit again to a yoke of slavery?
this freedom Christ has set us free, stand firm therefore and do not subject again to a yoke of slavery.*
What yoke of slavery is Paul talking about? Surely sin is defiling, like eating from the altar of demons, we need to lay aside impediments but this is not the slavery Paul writes about here, the yoke of slavery is one that forfeits grace. Paul writes those that influenced the Galatians to slavery again were of the circumcision party. We could call it legalism but it is much more. James writes it is the double-minded man, with a judging mindset. It is the mind that judges itself and others based upon works of any kind. "Now, I declare to all men, circumcision exists obligating to obey the entire Law, you cut off yourself from Christ, justifying yourselves in the Law, you have fallen from grace. For we by Spirit through faith, look for this righteous hope."* If I am called it is my purpose I can not stay where I am I must press on. For someone to try and place a stumbling block before me and again enslave me to the flesh through false religion, how great is their cause for stumbling and their condemnation? The perfect law provides freedom, not slavery and leads to holiness which brings forth truth or the practice the truth. This is what matures; truth in love. Paul writes what counts is a new creation, faith energized in love and obedience to Jesus. We consecrate in our hearts Jesus as Lord for this purpose of maturity which is also yoking to Christ and is looking into the truth, the judge, not turning away.
In this rejoice at the present, necessary for a short time, sorrowful in various trials, so that the proving of your faith (more precious than gold that perishes proved by fire) now found to the praise and glory and honor in revelation of Jesus Christ.*
The trials are the proving grounds, the race is set before us to test the genuineness of our faith, or the proving of our training up to this point. When we endure, when we win this race in which there is a blessing, a crown is given to us. If we actually viewed trials this way we would find it all joy as to endure is to be blessed and the blessings which comes is maturity, becoming like Jesus, thus to live is Christ and to die is gain. Said another way the blessing is the glory meaning I am becoming more and more like Christ, transformed from glory to glory. For me to live is Christ. We will not mature if we have a judging mindset, as such a mind will not endure suffering and will not submit to the one judge and lawgiver Christ, it will not look intently into the perfect law that provides freedom. This unapproved mind will do many mighty works before it will submit to the truth. It will not abide in the words of Jesus which consecrate and transform thus they will not increase in faith and will not mature. This mindset is the natural, carnal mind, thus it can't judge the things that are spiritual neither can it discern the will of God and accept it as pleasing and perfect. What happens in transformation is the mind is renewed to be spiritual like the new inner person I am in Christ, so I have the mind of Christ. The natural mind will do every thing in place of and will not submit to this calling and reasonable service of becoming holy which ironiocally is the one sacrifice acceptable to God. Holiness is the high calling in Christ and the highest form of worship to God. For those coming before the great White throne of judgement God's wrath will be revealed, for them, there is judgment and condemnation. For those in Christ, there is judging here on earth, as James writes Christ is judge and lawgiver, and as Paul writes He disciplines those he loves, a whipping Paul writes.* Peter writes by his stripes we are healed which implies participation in his suffering.* He teaches, judges without condemnation, for our benefit, so we are consecrated.
Now, you are a chosen offspring, a royal priesthood, a holy people, a people of his own possession, by such means you declare the deeds of the one calling you out of darkness into his glorious light.*
The glory is that I am being transformed into is the deeds I declare to the world. It is how I declare Light and Christ to the world. What deeds or good works do I declare if the glory is that of Christ? Can I declare such glory through deeds alone? If I help orphans but am not sure do I declare His glory through my deeds? We are called out of darkness into glorious light. Glorious light speaks to what the light does, it purifies, it transforms from glory to glory, this is why it is also called our glorification. To be in the Light is to be purified thus the call to holiness is a call to purity. James writes pure religion is helping orphans and widows and being pure from the world. If I do many works but I am not pure, then I declare not glorious light and purity but only good works thus I do not declare the true glory of God. True agape love is manifested through the Spirit of God, thus when Jesus said the world would know we are his disciples by our love for one another such declares purity from the world. We can achieve principles of excellence, knowledge, self-control, and endurance in the flesh but true godliness also adds to faith brotherly and agape love as this is effective in running the race.* The bond of love leads to perfection, maturity in truth, thus perfection is in agape love.
the good race course I have contended in, the race I have finished, the faith I have kept.*
I have run the race, the good race course being here on earth, the proving ground here on earth. Paul writes the time of his departure had arrived, he had ran this race and finished. "Now is laid up for me the crown of righteousness whom the righteous judge will give me that day. Now, not only me also all who love his glorious display."* All who love his glorious display speaks of those called to glory and to its purpose. What is the reward? a crown of righteousness and the crown of life. But am I not righteous in Christ? Yes, in Spirit but maturity, the seed of righteousness bearing fruit, is the goal of this race. Why would Paul run this race if the victory has already been won? He was called to run, it was his purpose. He writes he had become all things to all people so that some might be run also. He did not live from the tithing so that others might not stumble in this race and so the race would not become unwillingly like a stewardship which has a wage earned thus a reward here on earth.* He ran the race truly to be rewarded fully in heaven. His purity from the world has by far encourage others to run this race. He suffered in the flesh dying every day, so that in death he might equip others to run this race. Today, do we know of such holiness and purity? of the true calling of the race we are to run? of such participating in His suffering? Would we count it a joy to be thrown in prison, to be stoned and left for dead, to be shipwrecked, beaten with rods, to be thrown in to fight wild animals like early believers in the gladiator style games? would we suffer to become great, so to equip others to run this race? What will it be like before the bema seat for us? What crowns will we receive? what glory have we achieved here on earth? And what glory shall we receive in Christ who is the hope of such glory? The victory we have in Jesus, who is the guardian of our faith, the one we set our eyes on, the first to run and finish. Also, we have a great cloud of witnesses, a great hall of faith cheering us on, the ones who also ran and finished, who followed Jesus. So let us run this race, it is our purpose, it is our destiny. We are called to run.