Paradox: The Mark of Truth

The defining mark of postmodernism is also its greatest weakness. The assertion of "no absolutes" is not only an absolute which affirms their existence, but also a feeble attempt to rationalize the paradoxical nature of truth.

Truth is accurate and absolute only when its paradoxes are reconciled. To ignore the contrasts of truth which appear contradictory is to have incomplete and therefore inaccurate truth.

Even the absolutes of math contain paradox:
42 = 16, but √16 ≠ 4.
The correct answer is √16 = ±4.
+4 and -4 are opposite—yet the answer to √16 is inaccurate and incomplete without including both.

Jesus:
"... for I did not come to judge the world but to save the world." (John 12:47)
"As I hear, I judge; and My judgment is righteous ..." (John 5:30)

Jesus is the ultimate paradox. He is ...
Judgment and Mercy
Joy and Sorrow
Freedom and Ownership
Law and Liberty
Fellowship (Communion) and Holiness (Separation)
Life and Death
Mighty Lion and Gentle Lamb
First and Last
God and Man

The list would go on and on. But for any given contrast, Jesus is not two natures balanced against each other on opposite sides of a fulcrum, as √16 = +4 OR -4. Jesus is wholly and simultaneously both sides of His paradoxes, centered in love.

Both truth and Jesus are best seen when brought full circle.

More next time on the full circle paradoxes of Christmas and Crucifixion, current days and culmination day.

"I have come as a light into the world, that whoever believes in Me should not abide in darkness. And if anyone hears My words and does not believe, I do not judge him; for I did not come to judge the world but to save the world. He who rejects Me, and does not receive My words, has that which judges him the word that I have spoken will judge him in the last day."
~ John 12:46-48 (NKJV)

Comments are welcome and will receive a reply.
You may also contact author via Twitter – @anne4JC
or e-mail – buildingHisbody [plus] @gmail.com
Copyright 2011, Anne Lang Bundy, all rights reserved.

He Will Tell Us All

The [Samaritan] woman said to Him, "I know that Messiah is coming" (who is called Christ). "When He comes, He will tell us all things." Jesus said to her, "I who speak to you am He."
~ John 4:25-26 (NKJV)

Of all the surprises in the passage about the Samaritan woman, I am struck by the fact that not only does an adulterous Samaritan woman boldly proclaim faith in Christ with the words, "He will tell us all things," but that Jesus first recorded declaration of Himself as the Christ is to her.

How does this woman have such faith? Is it because all else in life has failed her that she is willing to rely upon the Christ to be true? Is such simple faith all Jesus looks for?

I remember clearly the startling day in 1985 when I met the Word of God made flesh. I'd heard about Jesus and read the Bible all my life. But when I first heard Scripture read with authority, there was no doubt in my mind that I had found the reliable Source of Truth, and I've not had a day's doubt since.

I've been called naïve for such belief. I sometimes take for granted such faith as a gift from God.

But then, He surely smiles upon any one of us, and reveals Himself to us, when we are utterly willing to believe:

He will tell us all, and we need look no further.

Comments are welcome and will receive a reply.
You may also contact author via Twitter – @anne4JC
or e-mail – buildingHisbody [plus] @gmail.com
Copyright 2011, Anne Lang Bundy, all rights reserved.

Ironing Out the Bible

Image source: Pastor Zach's Blog

Among the million and one things I did this week was iron out the Bible used by our younger kids, who learn to read from this large print version.

Even before the invention of the printing press, countless people across the millennia have not only learned to read from written Scripture, but they've become literate for the simple purpose of being able to study the precious texts. The NKJV Bible has long been our family's successful reading curriculum.

Though younger kids are taught to handle both the Word of God and the print and ink Bible with respect, numerous fragile leafs near the front and back get quite wrinkled. Then they start sticking out. And then they start to tear as the Bible gets dragged around the house for schoolwork. A worn Bible is one thing. An injured Bible is another.

So I spent about an hour carefully ironing out about twenty pages of the Bible and taping rips before gently returning it to its place with the books used to teach our children.

All your children shall be taught by the LORD,
And great shall be the peace of your children.
~ Isaiah 54:13 (NKJV)

On school days, my five darlings and I sit down to read from and study the Bible. We're presently in Proverbs. However interesting rest of Scripture, there's definitely some thought-provoking contrasts there. Consider this one:

Do not answer a fool according to his folly,
Lest you also be like him.
Answer a fool according to his folly,
Lest he be wise in his own eyes.
~ Proverbs 26:4-5 (NKJV)

Everyone is encouraged to share their insights as we together iron out God's Word. One of my greatest thrills in life is when my kids teach me, and I hear the Holy Spirit speaking through them.

Care for a sampling?

The sacrifice of the wicked is an abomination to the LORD,
But the prayer of the upright is His delight.
~ Proverbs 15:8 (NKJV)

One of the kids observed that even though a wicked person gives while the upright asks, the former offends the Lord and the latter delights Him. We went on to discuss that you're not willing to ask someone you dislike to do you any favors—you'd rather go without than be that humble. Even asking God for stuff is a welcome expression of humility if done with the right heart.

So I'll confess ...

While I do look to the Holy Spirit for inspiration and guidance as I write these posts, I admit that not all the thoughts are original. I thank God for all the people His Spirit uses to teach me.

Comments are welcome and will receive a reply.
You may also contact author via Twitter – @anne4JC
or e-mail – buildingHisbody [plus] @gmail.com
Copyright 2011, Anne Lang Bundy, all rights reserved.

I AM

"I am the Alpha and the Omega,
the Beginning and the End,
the First and the Last."
... let him who thirsts come.
Whoever desires, let him take the water of life freely.
~ Revelation 22:13,17 (NKJV)

Here is the end of Revelation, of the Bible text, and of the old heavens and earth.

For God, this is as good as the beginning, because He stands outside of time. Unlike mortal humans, who move through time like an unstoppable train on a single track, He is not limited to a single point on a line, in one dimension.

Jesus does not say He was in the beginning and shall be in the end. He declares Himself to simply be both the Beginning and the End, with the emphatic "I AM" which sums up His nature. He is Alpha and Omega, the whole of the matter. He is the First and the Last in a human life, to everyone of every time.

"I am YHWH, and there is no other;
There is no God besides Me.
... from the rising of the sun to its setting ...
there is none besides Me.
I form the light and create darkness,
I make peace and create calamity."
~ Isaiah 45:5-6

There is no other God, no other way to obtain love and light and life, no other means adequate to satisfy the human soul, both right now and for an eternity. Eternity may seem like a long time to those who live by time. But once we step outside of time with our God, we will cease to measure it.

I cannot help but smile that a God living outside of time said three times in the Bible's closing chapter, "I am coming quickly," knowing most of us would think "soon."

I believe it to be the former. I hope it to also be the latter.

Lord God, You are our All in All. You are our treasure, our comfort, our very life. We thirst much. Teach us to drink as freely and fully from Your Spirit as we will drink from the river of life.

I appreciate hearing from you. Questions are welcome. Reply to BuildingHisBody.com comments or e-mail me—my address is
buildingHisbody [plus] @gmail.com.
Copyright 2010, Anne Lang Bundy, all rights reserved.
Image source: freespiritart.com

Nearing Journey’s End

Many a time I've read through the Bible in a year. In January of this year I began a trip through a single book, Revelation, to see what it might reveal not about end times, but about the Person of Jesus and His bride.

And the spiritual battle was on. By late January, overwhelmed by circumstances, I retreated.

I'd already been embroiled in a spiritual battle which began in the summer of 2009, sharply escalating in August. (Was it only a coincidence that I began work on a book dedicated to the names of God in August?)

: : :

"Blessed is he who reads and those who hear the words of this prophecy, and keep those things which are written in it; for the time is near."
~ Revelation 1:3 (NKJV)

The book of Revelation is unique among Bible books in this declaration. The book is ducked by many churches, and altogether forbidden reading in some countries which permit the rest of the Bible. Some people have objected to its inclusion as Scripture.

I began the study afresh July 26th, when I felt strong enough to battle again. And it has continued to be a battle. I have pushed forward without retreat this time. I'm no expert in spiritual warfare. But I know without doubt that every component of spiritual armor is critical—truth, righteousness, preparation with the Gospel, faith, the salvation of Jesus' lordship, deploying God's Word, and prayer. I know that satan will go to any length to make us curse God rather than bless Him. I know that God neither leaves nor forsakes His own.

Tomorrow, God permitting, I will conclude the study with the last chapter of Revelation, and of the Bible. I have prevailed.

: : :

"Behold, the tabernacle of God is with men, and He will dwell with them, and they shall be His people. God Himself will be with them and be their God. And God will wipe away every tear from their eyes; there shall be no more death, nor sorrow, nor crying. There shall be no more pain, for the former things have passed away."
Then He who sat on the throne said, "Behold, I make all things new."
~ Revelation 21:3-5 (NKJV)

In this second to last chapter, nearing journey's end, we have come full circle from perfect creation, through rebellion and Calvary and Hell, back to perfection.

I wonder at the phrase, "God will wipe away every tear." Does it mean no tears? Or that we are permitted only tears of joy which the finger of God gently wipes away? And what would it feel like to have Him wipe away tears with His hand rather than with His words, as He does now?

Peeking ahead, to tomorrow's last chapter, I think about one day knowing Him as He knows us now. And I think of us being already sealed with the Holy Spirit.

And I think of saints casting down their golden crowns before the throne, because we shall wear upon our heads something of infinitely greater worth than even a golden crown of Heaven:

They shall see His face,
and His name shall be on their foreheads.
~ Revelation 22:4 (NKJV)

I appreciate hearing from you. Questions are welcome. Reply to BuildingHisBody.com comments or e-mail me—my address is
buildingHisbody [plus] @gmail.com.
Copyright 2010, Anne Lang Bundy, all rights reserved.

Kiss the Son

"My eyes have seen the glory of the coming of the Lord,
He is trampling out the vintage where the grapes of wrath are stored."
~ Julia Ward Howe, from "The Battle Hymn of the Republic," 1861

Kiss the Son

Now a great sign appeared in heaven: a woman clothed with the sun, with the moon under her feet, and on her head a garland of twelve stars... She bore a male Child who was to rule all nations with a rod of iron.
Revelation 12:1,5 (NKJV)

" 'Ask of Me, and I will give You
The nations for Your inheritance ...
You shall break them with a rod of iron;
You shall dash them to pieces like a potter's vessel.' "
Now therefore, be wise, O kings;
Be instructed, you judges of the earth.
Serve the LORD with fear,
And rejoice with trembling.
Kiss the Son, lest He be angry,
And you perish in the way,
When His wrath is kindled but a little.
~ Psalms 2:8-12 (NKJV)

John describes Jesus here as a King to rule over all nations with a rod of iron. Psalm 2 describes His rod dashing the nations to pieces.

This is the side of Jesus we rarely think about.

Not unlike the website on royalty etiquette where I found this photo, the psalmist instructs the kings of nations to kiss their divine Monarch in homage, to serve Him with fear, to rejoice with trembling—lest He be angry.

Though I hold reverent fear for my Father's discipline, I am at peace with God. On the day I see Jesus, I do hope to kiss Him. Whether I fall on my face and kiss His scarred feet, or am permitted to kneel and kiss His scarred hands, I look forward to finally expressing, face-to-face, my profound gratitude and love.

Lord Jesus, I long for our first kiss. Don't You? Have Your people not waited sufficiently? Maranatha! Come quickly, Lord!

I appreciate hearing from you. Questions are welcome. Reply to BuildingHisBody.com comments or e-mail me—my address is
buildingHisbody [plus] @gmail.com.
Copyright 2010, Anne Lang Bundy, all rights reserved.
Image source: www1.nst.com.my

Ascribe Greatness to Our God

All the angels stood around the throne and the elders and the four living creatures, and fell on their faces before the throne and worshiped God, saying:
"Amen! Blessing and glory and wisdom,
Thanksgiving and honor and power and might,
Be[long] to our God forever and ever. Amen."
~ Revelation 7:11-12 (NKJV)

"For I proclaim the name of the LORD:
Ascribe greatness to our God."
~ Deuteronomy 32:3 (NKJV)

Ascribe Greatness to Our God

The book of Revelation provides another glimpse of Heaven's worship. Those present ascribe greatness to our God using these seven words, (all seven are feminine nouns in the Greek):

Blessing (Greek eulogia)
fine speaking, elegance of language; commendation (“eulogy”), adoration; (different than a pronounced blessing which is bestowed)

Glory (doxa)
splendor or brilliance which excites admiration, or to which honor is ascribed; not merely outward glory, but glory from within which is reflected in appearance
(more tomorrow on God's glory in us)

Wisdom (sophia)
wisdom with clarity or in knowledge of relationship to God; (different than prudence)

Thanksgiving (eucharistia)
gratitude; grateful language as worship; response of accepting grace by one undeserving

Honor (timē, pronounced tee-MAY)
valuables; esteem of the highest degree; act of ascribing worth

Power (dunamis)
a force; miraculous power; ability or capability

Might (ischus)
strength, physical power, capacity

For
of Him and
through Him and
to Him are all things,
to whom be glory forever.
Amen.
~ Romans 11:36 (NKJV)

I appreciate hearing from you. Questions are welcome. Reply to BuildingHisBody.com comments or e-mail me—my address is
buildingHisbody [plus] @gmail.com.
Copyright 2010, Anne Lang Bundy, all rights reserved.
Image source: iamthewordthecomforter.blogspot.com

Bodies and Souls of People

"We either love people or we control them.
There's little room for anything else.
And it's far easier to control them than to love them."
~ John Eldredge

Bodies and Souls of People

"Who is worthy to open the scroll and to break its seals?" ...
"You are worthy to take the scroll, and to open its seals; because You were slain, and You redeemed us to God by Your blood, out of every tribe and language and people and nation ..."
~ Revelation 5:2,9 (EMTV)

And the merchants of the earth will weep and will mourn ... for no one buys their cargo any more: cargo of gold and of silver ... and of bodies and souls of people.
~ Revelation 18:11-13 (ALT)

Though Jesus is divine Son of God, other reasons are given for Him Who is both Lion of Judah and Lamb of God to be worthy of opening the scroll which declares God's will.

You were slain ...
The Greek word sphazō means slaughter, as in sacrifice. The human Jesus did not use His sinless perfection to claim exemption from sin's death penalty, but in sacrifice for all the humans subjected to death, whom He loves.

The Son of God asked for no privilege above other people—how can we?

... and You redeemed us to God by Your blood ...
"Redemption" speaks of purchase. The world is filled with people who fulfill themselves by using the strength, sex, or ideas from bodies and souls of others like commodities. Jesus created bodies and souls of people for the highest of all purposes—a dwelling place for God Himself—and bought them with His blood to be used for nothing less.

Might we see bodies and souls of people as either temples of God, or having the potential for that noble purpose?

... out of every tribe and language and people and nation ...
In what group of people do you feel out of place? Is there a part of town you avoid because you're the "wrong" color? Do you fail to understand what certain people are talking about? No such place exists with Jesus. His love is unconditional and recognizes no such distinctions.

There is no room for exclusion among the people of Jesus.

One last thought, on that opening quote. Though He has purchased us for Himself, Jesus loves us rather than controls us, allowing us to freely return His love—or not.

Thank You, Jesus. Thank You. You alone are worthy of our highest praise, our bowed down worship, and all the expanse of love we can offer.

I appreciate hearing from you. Questions are welcome. Reply to BuildingHisBody.com comments or e-mail me—my address is
buildingHisbody [plus] @gmail.com.
Copyright 2010, Anne Lang Bundy, all rights reserved.
Image source: arts.vic.gov.au

Eternal Realities

"Live near to God, and so all things will appear to you
little in comparison with eternal realities."
~ Robert McCheyne

Eternal Realities

Behold, a door standing open in heaven ...
"Come up here, and I will show you things ..."
~ Revelation 4:1 (NKJV)

And they never rest day or night, saying,
"Holy, holy, holy,
Holy, holy, holy,
Holy, holy, holy,
Lord God Almighty,
He who was, and who is, and who is to come!"
Whenever the living beings give glory ... the twenty-four elders fall down before Him who sits on the throne and they worship Him that lives forever and ever, and cast their crowns before the throne ...
~ Revelation 4:8-10 (EMTV)

In the first three chapters of Revelation, the apostle John describes Jesus' appearance to John while he's on Earth. Now, John is taken "in the spirit" to Heaven, to receive the perspective of angels.

The angels here use the word "holy" nine times (Greek Majority Text), in three sets of three. In Scripture, the number three represents "solidity, divine perfection, entirety, substantiveness, Godhead." The number nine represents "the conclusion of a matter." *

God's people praise Him for attributes such as love and mercy, and thank Him for salvation and blessing. Angels of spiritual realms, able to see God in contrast to all else, exalt Him as "holy"—utterly good, set apart, pure and perfect—both here and in Isaiah 6:1-3.

Perhaps angels use the word nine times to emphasize the conclusion of the matter. In any case, the crowned saints who are present respond by falling down in worship and casting down their crowns—the prize of their perseverance—before the only One worthy of a crown.

The knowledge of the Holy One is understanding.
~ Proverbs 9:10 (NKJV)

The day is at hand for all to be concluded, for faith of things unseen to become sight, for us to know the Holy One.

Lord God Almighty, please help us catch a glimpse of Your perfection and of eternal realities, to sustain us in the mire and chaos of temporal realms.

* From Numbers in Scripture, E.W. Bullinger (Kregel, Grand Rapids, © 1967)

I appreciate hearing from you. Questions are welcome. Reply to BuildingHisBody.com comments or e-mail me—my address is
buildingHisbody [plus] @gmail.com.
Copyright 2010, Anne Lang Bundy, all rights reserved.
Image source: revelation-today.com

You Have Loved Righteousness

"God is the same Person yesterday, today, and forever;
but in the drama of the ages, He plays many parts."
~ Bob Jones, Sr.

You Have Loved Righteousness

"These things says the Amen, the Faithful and True Witness, the Beginning of the creation of God ..."
~ Revelation 3:14 (NKJV)

But to the Son He says: "Your throne, O God, is forever and ever; A scepter of righteousness is the scepter of Your kingdom. You have loved righteousness and hated lawlessness."
~ Hebrews 1:8-9 (NKJV)

The God of the Old Testament Who demands justice and the God made flesh in the Jesus Who heals are the the same faithful and true God, unchanged and unchanging since the Beginning of creation. He has always hated sin and loved sinners.

There is no more contradiction in the Word of God between Old and New Testaments than in the directions of a daddy to prohibit or prompt using the stove for the toddler and teenager. Different ages, different directions, same loving Father.

If the OT God seems harsh, consider if it is truly harsh is it to spank precious little fingers to prevent them being burned. If He seems judgmental, consider that justice would not be served to set a convicted murderer free to kill again.

Thus the person who makes claim to the payment of Jesus blood for his or her sin must repent of sin and love righteousness, or else one day face the same God Whose justice demanded Jesus' death—without the benefit of being clothed in Christ's righteousness at that meeting.

Those who read these words may not be the ones who need to apply them. But it's a sure bet that we know someone who has yet to have them lovingly explained.

Lord Almighty, our Shepherd and Savior and Sacrifice, please allow us to trust Your justice and rely upon Your mercy as we seek to know You fully as unchanging God.

I appreciate hearing from you. Questions are welcome. Reply to BuildingHisBody.com comments or e-mail me—my address is
buildingHisbody [plus] @gmail.com.
Copyright 2010, Anne Lang Bundy, all rights reserved.
Image source: myrealmofimagination.wordpress.com

I Will Keep You

I Will Keep You

"I know your deeds... I know that you have little strength, yet you have kept my word and have not denied my name... I have loved you. Since you have kept my [word] to endure patiently, I will also keep you from the hour of trial that is going to come upon the whole world to test those who live on the earth."
~ Revelation 3:8-10 (NIV)

Jesus speaks to the church of Philadelphia—"city of brotherly love." Philadelphia appears to have undergone not the persecution in which Smyrna proved faithful, but the trials of difficulty.

The purpose of a trial is to prove something: innocent or guilty; satisfactory or unacceptable; faithful or false. Jesus spoke in parables saying that those who claimed to be His would fall away in time of trial unless they were deeply rooted in Him, firmly established upon the rock of His Word, abiding in Him.

Have you endured a trial you thought would never end? Are you going through one now?

ἐτήρσαϛ τὸν λόγον τηϛ ὑπομονηϛ μού
"... you have kept the word of My patient endurance ..."

The Greek word used here for patience (see Monday's post) means to have hope and cheer through trying circumstances. Jesus asks us to stay under the trial, to keep faith in Him through it, to patiently endure it—and He asks us to have a good attitude which testifies of His goodness, not denying His name

He asks nothing for which He does not return much more. We endure weighty trials to prove our faith true. To us who keep His word to endure patiently, Jesus says, "I will keep you. I will keep you from the hour of severe trial."

Whatever difficulty you face right now, however fierce the fire, He is with you in the flames.

"Did we not cast three men bound into the midst of the fire? ... Look! ... I see four men loose, walking in the midst of the fire; and they are not hurt, and the form of the fourth is like the Son of God."
~ Daniel 3:24-25 (NKJV)

Son of God, You patiently, silently endured the fiercest trial of God's wrath on our behalf. In our hours of trial, please let us know Your presence by speaking in our ears, "I will keep you."

I appreciate hearing from you. Questions are welcome. Reply to BuildingHisBody.com comments or e-mail me—my address is
buildingHisbody [plus] @gmail.com.
Copyright 2010, Anne Lang Bundy, all rights reserved.
Image source: fatherchecksblog.blogspot.com

The Key of David

(click image to enlarge)

The Key of David

"And to the angel of the church in Philadelphia write, 'These things says He who is holy, He who is true, He who has the key of David, He who opens and no one shuts, and shuts and no one opens ...' "
~ Revelation 3:7 (NKJV)

"The key of the house of David
I will lay on his shoulder;
So he shall open, and no one shall shut;
And he shall shut, and no one shall open."
~ Isaiah 22:22 (NKJV)

In ancient times, keys were worn upon the shoulder, similar to the manner in which insignia of military rank is worn today—a fitting indication of authority and control over something of value.

As Jesus addresses His church in the city of brotherly love, He reminds them that He holds keys to His kingdom, that He holds absolute authority and control over everything—and also that He is holy (Greek hagios – pure and perfect, ultimate goodness personified) and true (Greek alēthinos – genuine and reliable, utterly trustworthy).

Now then, what is that matter over which you are wrestling with the Lord right now? What is He asking you to endure, or overcome, or release? Will you trust His goodness and reliability?

If you trust Him for eternal life, how much more might He be trusted for the temporary stuff in the meantime?

Just asking ...

Lord, please forgive us for all the times we hesitate to live with faith in Your goodness and wisdom. Please help us to follow You through the doors You open, and accept the doors You shut.

I appreciate hearing from you. Questions are welcome. Reply to BuildingHisBody.com comments or e-mail me—my address is
buildingHisbody [plus] @gmail.com.
Copyright 2010, Anne Lang Bundy, all rights reserved.
Image source: ancientresource.com

God Does Not Bluff

Silk Apple Blossoms

God Does Not Bluff

"And to the angel of the church in Sardis write, 'These things says He who has the seven Spirits of God and the seven stars: "I know your works, that you have a name that you are alive, but you are dead... He who overcomes shall be clothed in white garments, and I will not blot out his name from the Book of Life; but I will confess his name before My Father and before His angels." ' "
~ Revelation 3:1,5 (NKJV)

What good is it, my brothers, if a man claims to have faith but has no deeds? Can such faith save him?
~ James 2:14 (NIV)

There are some realistic-looking plants which look nice and require no attention. They also bear no fruit, fragrance, or even life.

Jesus walks, sees and works in the spiritual realms of angels (stars) and Spirit. He looks beyond outward appearances to the heart. There is no exuberant praise, no eloquent prayer, no abundance of works which can adequately cover for dead faith which lacks spiritual fruit.

I don't pretend to fully understand what the Lord Jesus means when He says, “I will not blot out his name from the Book of Life.” But I cannot think He speaks in only hypothetical terms. God does not bluff. His Word is to be considered with upmost regard.

There are too many places in the New Testament which speak of spiritual loss** to not at least entertain the notion that a person’s name might actually be recorded in the Book of Life and then be blotted out because spiritual life has not been cultivated.

What is certain is that “Christian” is not just a name for good reputation among people, but an identity established by life in Christ, so that He confesses our names before His Father and angels.

Father in Heaven, please let us revere You, Your Word, and the spiritual life You give. Please let us not be content to appear good, or to imply to other believers that it is sufficient to claim faith without spiritual life and fruit. Please guard us from hypocrisy. Please reveal truth to us.

** Other passages which refer to being cut off from God or loss of spiritual life include:
Luke 8:13
Hebrews 10:29
Hebrews 6:4-6
2 Peter 2:20-21
John 15:2
Matthew 22:11-14
Revelation 3:16
1 Timothy 5:12
Romans 11:22

I appreciate hearing from you. Questions are welcome. Reply to BuildingHisBody.com comments or e-mail me—my address is
buildingHisbody [plus] @gmail.com.
Copyright 2010, Anne Lang Bundy, all rights reserved.
Image source: kaboodle.com

Sleeping With the Enemy

"Success"
(one worldly perspective)

Sleeping With the Enemy

"I have against you that you permit your woman Jezebel, she who calls herself a prophetess, to be teaching and seducing My servants to indulge sexual immorality and eat food of idols ... Look! I am casting her into a sickbed, and the ones committing adultery with her into great affliction, unless they repent of her works..."
~ Revelation 2:20,22 (author)


Last Friday's "Question of the Week" addressed the critical distinction between being in the world and of the world. God's declaration that this world is His enemy says that to compromise with the world is to commit spiritual adultery (James 4:4)—to be sleeping with the enemy.

Does any offense inflame a husband's wrath like adultery? We are surrounded with evidence that the seductive world lies in a sickbed. Jesus warns His bride that compromise with the world and its immorality results in great affliction for us as well.

"... all the churches shall know that I am He who searches minds and hearts. And I will give to each one of you according to your works... And he who overcomes, and he who keeps My works until the end, to him I will give authority over the nations ..."
~ Revelation 2:23,26 (EMTV)

Jesus taught that those who prove faithful to Him during the world's era—who rise above the systems, standards and society of His enemy—shall rule over the world's cities during His reign (Luke 19:17). To the servant sleeping with the enemy, such authority would not be fitting.

Lord Jesus, the battle against compromise is difficult to fight while living in enemy territory. We desperately need Your perspective to see the world for the enemy it is. We need You Who searches minds and hearts to show us our compromise. Please purify us for Yourself.

I appreciate hearing from you. Questions are welcome. Reply to BuildingHisBody.com comments or e-mail me—my address is
buildingHisbody [plus] @gmail.com.
Copyright 2010, Anne Lang Bundy, all rights reserved.
Wood sculpture "Success" from the Arnold Mikelson Mind and Matter Gallery, mindandmatterart.com

Eyes Like a Flame of Fire

"An eye can threaten like a loaded and leveled gun,
or it can insult like hissing or kicking;
or, in its altered mood, by beams of kindness,
it can make the heart dance for joy."
~ Ralph Waldo Emerson

Eyes Like a Flame of Fire

"And to the angel of the church in Thyatira write, 'These things says the Son of God, who has eyes like a flame of fire, and His feet like fine brass ...' "
~ Revelation 2:18 (NKJV)

What child does not feel power in the eye of a stern parent?

What soul in love does not melt in the beloved's gaze?

What criminal does not know fear under the stare of cop or judge?

Do you remember a time you thought your actions unseen? Or when your thoughts, if displayed, would have shamed you? Or when you believed a certain sin could be forgotten?

The Son of God sees all, into the very thoughts of mind, emotions of heart, desires of soul.

Why do you say ...
"My way is hidden from the LORD,
And my just claim is passed over by my God"?
Isaiah 40:27 (NKJV)

Furthermore, when we suffer injury or offense or slander for which no one can compensate, which seems to pass unnoticed, we are assured that the Lord sees and already knows His intended remedy.

Likewise the Spirit also helps in our weaknesses. For we do not know what we should pray for as we ought, but the Spirit Himself makes intercession for us with groanings which cannot be uttered. Now He who searches the hearts knows what the mind of the Spirit is ...
~ Romans 8:26-27 (NKJV)

The "feet like fine [white] brass [alloy]" belong to the Jesus we've invited into our hearts. He has taken up enduring occupancy in His temple, walking where He wills, searching out every corner with His eyes like a flame of fire. He comprehends the questions we cannot articulate, shares our speechless grief, and receives the love we do not know how to put into words.

El Ro-iy, God-Who-Sees-Me, please let us discern Your presence in moments of temptation and when we think we cannot endure offense. Please let us welcome Your presence in every corner of our hearts, with delight in Your gaze.

I appreciate hearing from you. Questions are welcome. Reply to BuildingHisBody.com comments or e-mail me—my address is
buildingHisbody [plus] @gmail.com.
Copyright 2010, Anne Lang Bundy, all rights reserved.
Gun barrel image source: flickr.com

Two-edged Sword, Part II

"Most people are bothered by those passages in Scripture that they cannot understand; but as for me, I always noticed that the passages in Scripture that trouble me most are those that I do understand."
~ Mark Twain


Two-edged Sword, Part II

"These things says He who has the sharp two-edged sword: '... Repent, or else I will come to you quickly and will fight against them with the sword of My mouth... To him who overcomes I will give some of the hidden manna to eat...' "
~ Revelation 2:12,16-17 (NKJV)

The Word of God is sword of the Spirit and Jesus Himself. The gentle King on a donkey's foal is five times in Revelation depicted with a sword—the warrior King on a horse. Among those to feel His sword are those in the church who dare use His Gospel for personal gain (yesterday's Part I).

For the word of God is living and powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing even to the division of soul and spirit, and of joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart.
~ Hebrews 4:12 (NKJV)

His two-edged sword cuts both ways. For those who love Him named Word of God, the sword which pierces to division of godly spirit from soul of flesh also brings peace and comfort; the sword which cuts away shackles of bondage brings both freedom and liberty; the sword which shall condemn to death God's enemies is life to His children.

Reading the Bible may first trouble a person as it reveals sin. But to then turn away from the Word allows sin to fester as an unattended infection. Staying in the Word and allowing it to complete its full work brings light and strength and treasure.

To stay in the Word is to find hidden manna to nourish the soul.

Lord Jesus—Word of God, Word of Life, Word of Hope—please give Your people a desire for all the gifts in You. Please let us never fear Your sword.

I appreciate hearing from you. Questions are welcome. Reply to BuildingHisBody.com comments or e-mail me—my address is buildingHisbody [plus] @gmail.com.
Copyright 2010, Anne Lang Bundy, all rights reserved.
Image from wordunplugged.com

Fragrance of Christ

"Myrrh is mine; its bitter perfume
Breathes a life of gathering gloom ..."
~ John Henry Hopkins Jr,
from the 1857 hymn "We Three Kings"

Fragrance of Christ

"To the messenger of the church in Smyrna, write ..."
~ Revelation 2:8 (ISV)

This church bore the identity "Smyrna," a name meaning "myrrh"—the precious oil called one of "the best fruits of the land" of Israel, and a valuable oil which herbalists employ today. Myrrh was a perfume of royalty (King Solomon and Queen Esther). Myrrh is the base of the holy anointing oil used on the priests and throughout the temple—a unique perfume blend forbidden for any other persons or use.

Myrrh is the scent of God Himself, mentioned in a passage which also speaks to His desire of feminine beauty:

Your throne, O God, is forever and ever;
A scepter of righteousness is the scepter of Your kingdom...
All Your garments are scented with myrrh and aloes and cassia ...
Listen, O daughter,
Consider and incline your ear;
Forget your own people also, and your father's house;
So the King will greatly desire your beauty ...
Psalms 45:6,8,10-11 (NKJV)

Christ's church is given a feminine identity as His bride. We are the royal priesthood of which Old Testamant priests and kings were forerunners. We are anointed with His fragrance:

Now thanks be to God who always leads us in triumph in Christ, and through us diffuses the fragrance of His knowledge in every place. For we are to God the fragrance of Christ among those who are being saved and among those who are perishing. To the one we are the aroma of death leading to death, and to the other the aroma of life leading to life.
~ 2 Corinthians 2:14-16 (NKJV)

The fragrance of myrrh is called both "bitter" and "warm, rich, spicy balsamic." I find it quite pleasant, while others do not care for it.

People who use Christianity to attain financial gain, personal esteem, or to manipulate others do not bear the fragrance of Christ, and are rightly considered odious.

But make no mistake. Those Christians who put off the world and work to forget its enticements—who would bear the fragrance of Christ—will also be considered odious to those who don't care for Christ. We may expect to be persecuted for such an aroma.

More on that in Monday's post, which will look at the way Jesus spoke to the church of Smyrna.

Lord Jesus, anoint us freely with Your Spirit. Make Your fragrance of holiness sweet to us. Please allow us to bear it, and any persecution which may come with such a precious scent.

I love hearing from you. Reply to BuildingHisBody.com comments or e-mail BuildingHisBody@gmail.com.
Copyright 2010, Anne Lang Bundy, all rights reserved.
Image source: earthlyaromatherapy.com

First Love

"Love is composed of a single soul inhabiting two bodies."
~Aristotle

First Love

"I know your works, your labor, your patience, and that you cannot bear those who are evil. And you have tested those who say they are apostles and are not, and have found them liars; and you have persevered and have patience, and have labored for My name's sake and have not become weary..."
~ Revelation 2:2-3 (NKJV)

Those Ephesians had quite the résumé. What church—what individual—would not love to hear the above commendation from the Lord Himself?

"Nevertheless I have this against you, that you have left your first love."
~ Revelation 2:2-4 (NKJV)

Here are words I've previously used to describe first love:

First love is consuming. It takes over all thought, feeling, word, action.

First love is driven. It will go around or through and beyond any obstacle.

First love is empowering. There is nothing it will not do for its object.

First love is not extinguished by time, but [cooled] by the indifference of familiarity and the distraction of intrusion.

I do not think we are as likely to lose first love as we are to be fickle and transfer it to another object easily identified by certain questions.

If adversity strikes, where does my concern immediately turn?

If I'm feeling down, where do I first turn for solace?

If I were to lose everything, what would be the one thing I ask God to spare?

Life holds many things to rightly value—and every one of them holds potential to steal first love from the Lord, including Christian service.

The Lord doesn't ask us to build up a spiritual résumé of what we do for Him. He asks us for relationship, then invites us to do with Him.

Lord Jesus, help us to remember first love, and to pour it out lavishly upon You.

I love hearing from you. Reply to BuildingHisBody.com comments or e-mail BuildingHisBody@gmail.com.
Copyright 2010, Anne Lang Bundy, all rights reserved.
Image from healthewoman.org

Of Angels and Mortals

“A man does not have to be an angel in order to be saint.”
~ Albert Schweitzer

Of Angels and Mortals

"The seven stars are the angels of the seven churches, and the seven lampstands which you saw are the seven churches. To the angel of the church of Ephesus write, 'These things says He who holds the seven stars in His right hand, who walks in the midst of the seven golden lampstands ..."
~ Revelation 1:20-2:1 (NKJV)

In the first love letter from Jesus to church, He identifies Himself as seen with His angels (or messengers, represented by stars) and His churches (or assemblies, represented by lampstands).

Contrasts may be made between angels and the church. A lampstand is a light far smaller and lower than a star, as we are to angels. Angels hold mighty power as messengers of Jesus' hand, while He walks among us in fellowship and puts His power within us. An angel holds the key of the abyss, but we've been entrusted as heirs with keys to the Kingdom of Heaven. Angels behold the face of God now hidden from our eyes—though we hold God within us.

We shall one day be like angels. Angels cannot be disciples like us.

My notes from a sermon I heard on "Twelve Ordinary Men" mention four levels of discipleship:
Belief – faith in Jesus as Lord
Commitment – answering the call "Follow Me"
Apostleship – being "sent" as ambassadors of God
Martyrdom – death to all personal interests

Such is the privilege in the relationship between disciple and beloved Master.

Lord Jesus, as we trust You and follow You, show us how to represent you and lay down our lives for You.

I love hearing from you. Reply to BuildingHisBody.com comments or e-mail BuildingHisBody@gmail.com.
Copyright 2010, Anne Lang Bundy, all rights reserved.
Image source: howarddavidjohnson.com

Fear Not Surrender

When I saw [the Son of Man],
I fell at his feet as though dead.
But he laid his right hand on me, saying,
"Fear not ..."
~ Revelation 1:17 (ESV)

Fear Not Surrender

"And it shall be, in that day," Says the LORD, "That you will call Me 'My Husband,' And no longer call Me 'My Master,'
~ Hosea 2:16 (NKJV)

Whether ancient or foreign, some cultures do not ask a woman's consent to marriage—betrothals involve agreement between bridegroom and bride's father. Yet honorable men have nonetheless given a woman the option to accept or reject a husband. (One example is Rebekah.)

Once wedded, some men might approach a bride with the attitude, "I now receive what is mine." An honorable man will approach the virgin gently, bidding her to surrender and fear not.

Fear of the Lord is not an outdated Old Testament concept, but is also urged in the New Testament. His church's reverent fear is received by a Bridegroom Who says, "Fear Not."

For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind.
~ 2 Timothy 1:7 (NKJV)

More than any other imperative, the Bible records Jesus directing us "Do not fear," "Do not worry," "Do not be anxious." We approach God with fear knowing that He will still it.

We surrender not as an enemy who has been vanquished, but as a bride who is beloved.

Lord Jesus, please help each of us to see which areas of our lives hold fear of surrender to You. Please speak gently to us, and enable us to give You all.

Your feedback is appreciated. Post to BuildingHisBody.com Comments or e-mail to BuildingHisBody@gmail.com. Copyright 2010, Anne Lang Bundy, all rights reserved.
Image from album "Face Down" by Matt Redman, mattredman.com