Pastor Jenkins speaks today from Matthew 7 on the subject of judging. In fact, the full message is titled: Judge Not That You Be Not Judged
Verse 2 is one of the highpoints in this chapter in that Yahshua is telling us to be careful how we interact with others. He says we can expect to receive the same treatment from others that we give out. For example, if you want mercy, then you must show mercy. You cannot treat people badly and expect good things to happen to you. It doesn't matter whether its family, friends or strangers--everyone deserves to be treated in a respectful manner.
As we will or may have already found, every action has a reaction. Therefore, before judging others, let's consider offering more grace to them. We never know what future predicaments we'll find ourselves, and surely, we would want grace extended to us. Showing mercy is what our lives should reflect if we are or claim to be followers of Yahshua. HE always showed mercy and even more mercy.
Take a minute to think how much we've messed up, and now answer this question: Did Yahshua ever give up on us? No, because of His love for mankind, HE showed us more and more grace and mercy. So, let's take the same view Yahshua did by showing mercy and grace to others. Don't be so quick to point out others flaws but instead pray for the individual that he/she will come to the knowledge of Who Yahshua is and what He has done for each one of us.
If not, we may find ourselves in horrific situations that may linger for years and years to come. Why? --you ask? Well, in short, there are consequences to our behaviors and, there's no shortcuts.
As mentioned last week, this too-- judging others and yourself-- is very serious. Take time to reflect on how you interact on a day-to-day basis with others. Don't get caught on the wrong side of judging as it may determine where you end up in eternity.
Memory verse: Galatians 6:7
Pastor Jenkins brings this message, Saved By Grace, from Apostle Saul's teaching in Romans 8.
He tells us that there is, therefore, no condemnation once we receive Yahshua into our hearts. We must be led by Yah's Holy Spirit and, as a result, our lives will be totally changed. By grace, we are made free in Yahshua.
Because of Adam's sin, death came upon all of mankind. But through our Savior Yahshua's coming to earth, shedding His blood and dying, we now have repentance and can ask forgiveness for our sins. We are no longer held captive through the law of sin and death.
Therefore, it doesn't matter what kind of life we've lived because we can freely choose Yahshua, confess our sins, and "HE is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and cleanse us of all unrighteousness". The choice is ours. We can choose Yahshua and have a new start in life or continue in our carnal nature --doing what we want to do without realizing that in that state, we are led by Satan and are lost.
This is a very serious decision we must make. So, we appeal to you to take the time to weigh these choices carefully as it will determine where you end up in eternity.
Pastor Jenkins brings us to the place in 1st Kings 3 where we see our Heavenly Father Yahweh talking with Solomon—a young man who wanted to please Yahweh.
Solomon was one of King David’s sons who loved Yahweh, and as a result of his love for Yahweh, requested something of Yahweh. In response to his request, Father Yah asked him a question and his (Solomon’s) response would turn out to be the best answer he ever could have given. The words blessings upon blessings come to mind.
He would later become King of Isreal after his father’s death. Our loving Yahweh through His Dear Son Yahshua brings us to a place of humbleness. As wise people, we are to put our lives in Yahshua’s hands. Then, we will walk out of lives with an attitude of gratitude – being focused on Yah’s will for us.
Are you now wondering what Yahweh asked Solomon and Solomon’s response? Well, for those who know the story, it’s no surprise how Yahweh would bless him—over and more abundantly than he could imagine. But, if you are unfamiliar with this story, stay tuned and listen to the full message.
Once you have listened diligently, meditate on what you would have asked and see how it aligns with Yahweh’s word. Ask Yahweh what you will, according to His will for your life, and then expect Him to answer.
Scripture Reading: Romans 8:10
" Pastor Jenkins, in Romans 8 brings to our attention that "there is no condemnation to them which are in Yahshua the Messiah, who walk not after the flesh but after the Spirit." (For clarity, we know in the Bible, the capital "S" is speaking about the Holy Spirit, while the small "s" is speaking about our human spirit (flesh). With that being said, let's delve into this much-needed message.
The question being asked is "are we led by Yahweh's Holy Spirit or by our own flesh? Some of us may not know the difference between the two. But to travel down the path of life, let's pay close attention as Pastor Jenkins tells us what it means and giving some examples of both.
Here's a clue: One way gives us life and the other death. Can you figure out which is which, and where you fit in?
Just remember: the first Adam caused all of mankind to be lost. But by grace, the Second Adam, shed His blood and died so that everyone who freely accepts Him would no longer be lost but would have eternal life through His death, burial and resurrection.
Father Yahweh already knew the future. He knew we would need a Deliverer, so what happened? Our Savior Yahshua the Messiah was there waiting to die for our sins in order that we would have a way back to Father Yahweh through Him.
What are the attributes of being saved vs. being lost -- do you know? If not, it's ok, for if you listen to the entire message, you'll find yourself in one or the other.
So, sit back and after listening to the entire message, see which spirit you're led by-- for everyone is either led by the Holy Spirit or our human spirit (flesh).