Category: The Way


When will the Anointing Come for Service in Ministry?

Filed under: Brazen Laver, Jesus, Jesus the Altar of Burnt Offerings, Jesus the Brazen Laver, Jesus the Holy Place, Jesus the Tabernacle, Jesus the Tabernacle Courtyard, Ministry, Tabernacle, Tabernacle Courtyard, The Alter of Burnt Offerings, The Holy Of Holies, The Way — Leave a comment
August 1, 2009

When will the Anointing Come for Service in Ministry?

I had a question that asked when the anointing would come in support of ministry. As I though this answer may have a general interest I provide it here for everyone.

The anointing comes in support of our service in doing God’s will. This web site does a couple of things that will help you in finding the answers to your questions.

First it helps us to better understand Jesus by looking at Tabernacle, which is prophetic of Him in every way.

The Tabernacle Courtyard

The Tabernacle Courtyard

Secondly, it helps us to understand our walk with God by closely looking at the Tabernacle and the life of Jesus. What we find there is that the Tabernacle is divided into three compartments and they are called the Tabernacle Courtyard, the Holy Place and the Most Holy Place.

The Chanbers of the Tabernacle

The Chanbers of the Tabernacle

Each chamber resents a type of relationship that we can have with God and since these chambers can be entered in only one sequence our relationship with God therefore must grow progressively as we seek to become more like our savior Jesus.

This first compartment (the Courtyard) is where a relationship of “grace” is achieved. It is here that a lamb was sacrificed and burned on a brazen altar for the forgiveness of the sins of the people.

The Tabernacle Courtyard

The Lamb Brought to the Tabernacle Courtyard

Jesus of course was the perfect Lamb who gave His life for the forgiveness of our sins. In addition, the Courtyard is a place of preparation of the priest who desire a more intimate ministry with God. This preparation was manifest at the Brazen Laver where the priests would purify themselves prior entering into ministry in the Holy Place.

Since the Laver surface had a mirror like quality the priest could see his reflection as he washed in the Laver. As they washed they believed that they saw themselves as God saw them. As a result their hidden faults were uncovered and they earnestly contemplated their worthiness to enter into a closer relationship with God in the Holy Place. This reflection resulted n a change of heart, which is necessary to enter into the service of almighty God in the Holy Place.

Priest in the Holy Place of the Tabernacle

Priest in the Holy Place of the Tabernacle

Our posting prove that Jesus is the fulfillment of the Tabernacles prophesy and that He is the Tabernacle Courtyard, the Brazen Altar, the Lamb and the Brazen Laver. He is our Brazen Laver in that by looking intently at His life, His words and His actions we can see ourselves as God sees us. By finding scripture that identifies these things and asking the Holy Spirit for help we can see how our actions, words and lives stack up to His. This could give us much to contemplate prior to launching out into a ministry.

I mention all of this because the Holy Place is where our pathway is enlightened, our relationship with the Father is matured and we become empowered for spiritual warfare, which is the anointing for God’s service.

I believe that reviewing the following links can explain all of this in more detail:

The-Tabernacle-Courtyard-is-Prophetic-of-Jesus-a-Review

The-Brazen-Laver

The-Baptism-of-Jesus-and-the-Brazen-Laver

Being-Born-of-the-Spirit-and-the-Brazen-Laver

Jesus-gives-the-Living-Water-of-the-Laver

True-Baptism-Reveled-in-the-Reflections-of-the-Laver

Lessons-from-Jesus-our-Brazen-Laver

Jesus-the-Laver-Washes-His-Disciples-Feet

Jesus-Gave-us-all-he-had

Jesus-the-Brazen-Laver-Reveals-our-Destiny

Reflections-of-Jesus-Regarding-Service

Jesus-the-Laver-Teaches-do-what-ever-it-takes

Jesus-the-Laver-Teaches-Disregard-Status

Jesus-the-Laver-Teaches-Lead-by-Example

Jesus-the-Laver-Teaches-Personally-Touch-People

Jesus-our-Laver-Teaches-that-we-will-be-Tested

Yes, I will pray for you. Please keep me posted on your progress and otherwise let me know if you have any other questions or concerns.

May God bless you in all ways to spread the word of His Son to all of India.

Papa Joe Gordon

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Jesus Is The Way

Filed under: Brazen Laver, Jesus, Jesus the Altar of Burnt Offerings, Jesus the Tabernacle, Jesus the Tabernacle Courtyard, Tabernacle, Tabernacle Courtyard, The Alter of Burnt Offerings, The Way — 1 Comment
January 4, 2009

Jesus is the Way

We now plan to present an investigation into the significance of Jesus’ statement; “I am the Way, the Truth and the Life,” with our primary focus for this post to be on what Jesus meant when He said “I am the Way.”

lamb


Our strategy is to draw parallels to the Tabernacle Courtyard as the passage way into this chamber of the Tabernacle is also called “the Way.” So the Tabernacle Courtyard will become a starting point of our investigation as we will present its artifacts, attributes and purpose.

the-full-tabernacle


Once we have achieved an understanding of the Courtyard we will turn our attention to the parallels in the life of Jesus. We will demonstrate that His life and words reveal Him to be the Courtyards’ prophetic promise for the forgiveness of sin through Gods’ relationship of grace with man. With that said, let us move on to looking at the Tabernacle Courtyard.

The Courtyard is enclosed by a linen fence and a gate (called the Way) that provides entry into the Tabernacle. Three objects can be found in the Courtyard. They are the Altar of Burnt Offerings, the Brazen Laver and the Sanctuary tent.

Upon the Altar of Burnt Offerings animal and blood sacrifices were made for the forgiveness of sins. The Brazen Laver was used for cleansing by the priest after performing their duties in the Tabernacle Courtyard and prior to entering into the Sanctuary tent.

To learn about the Tabernacle Fence and Gate follow the link below:

The-Tabernacle-Fence-And-Gate

tabernacle-gate

To learn about the Altar of Burnt Offerings follow the link below:

The-Altar-Of-Burnt-Offerings

To learn about the Activities at the Altar of Burnt Offerings follow the link below:

The-Activities-At-The-Altar-Of-Burnt-Offerings

Next our attention will turn to looking for parallels in the life of Jesus, starting with the Altar of Burnt offerings. First we will look at Jesus being the sacrifice for our sins because He is the Lamb of God. Next we will look at Jesus from the standpoint of being the good shepherd as He gave His life on the cross for us.

To learn about Jesus the Lamb of God follow the link below:

tabernacle-courtyard


Jesus-Is-The-Lamb-Of-God

To learn about Jesus the Altar of Burnt Offerings follow the link below:

Jesus-Is-The-Altar-Of-Burnt-Offerings

To learn about Jesus the Good Shepherd follow the link below:

Jesus-Is-The-Good-Shepherd

p1010227

The Good Shepherd gave up His life for His sheep.

The Brazen Laver is another object found inside the Tabernacle Courtyard. It’s main purpose is to allow for the cleansing of the priest prior to ministry. The following link will take you to the post that describes the Tabernacles’ Laver:

The-Brazen-Laver

One of the ways that can claim that Jesus is the fulfillment of Tabernacle prophesies is by looking at the baptism of Jesus in the Jordan River. The following link will take you to this discussion.

The-Baptism-Of-Jesus-And-The-Brazen-Laver

john-baptizes-jesus

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The Tabernacle Fence and Gate

Filed under: Jesus, Tabernacle, Tabernacle Courtyard, The Way — 1 Comment
December 26, 2008

The Morning Star Rising on the First Day

Read my story by ordering my book, “Possess the Vision”

The Tabernacle Fence and Gate

 

The Tabernacle fence and gate can be seen in the following pictures:


the-full-tabernacle5

 

 

 

 

 

tabernacle-gate

The following passage from the book of Exodus defines the fence that encircles the Courtyard:

 

You shall also make the court of the tabernacle. For the south side there shall be hangings for the court made of fine woven linen, one hundred cubits long for one side. And its twenty pillars and their twenty sockets shall be bronze. The hooks of the pillars and their bands shall be silver. Likewise along the length of the north side there shall be hangings one hundred cubits long, with its twenty pillars and their twenty sockets of bronze, and the hooks of the pillars and their bands of silver. And along the width of the court on the west side shall be hangings of fifty cubits, with their ten pillars and their ten sockets. The width of the court on the east side shall be fifty cubits. The hangings on one side of the gate shall be fifteen cubits, with their three pillars and their three sockets. And on the other side shall be hangings of fifteen cubits, with their three pillars and their three sockets. For the gate of the court there shall be a screen twenty cubits long, woven of blue, purple, and scarlet thread, and fine woven linen, made by a weaver. It shall have four pillars and four sockets. All the pillars around the court shall have bands of silver; their hooks shall be of silver and their sockets of bronze. The length of the court shall be one hundred cubits, the width fifty throughout, and the height five cubits, made of fine woven linen, and its sockets of bronze. All the utensils of the tabernacle for all its service, all its pegs, and all the pegs of the court, shall be of bronze. (Exodus 27:9-19)

 

More information Can be found about the Tabernacle Gate by clicking on the following link: The-Tabernacle-Gate

 

Read my amazing true life story about how the forces of good and evil battle for my life and the vision that God has given me. My book, “Possess the Vision,” communicates my supernatural experiences and as a result, provides insight into the realm of the spiritual warfare that is raging for our souls and our purpose. This is a must read for all Christians. Learn more by following this link: Possess-the-Vision-at-Amazon

 

 

 

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The Tabernacle Is Prophetic Of Jesus

Filed under: Christian Love, Jesus, spirtual warfare, Tabernacle, Tabernacle Courtyard, The Holy Of Holies, The Holy Place, The Life, The Most Holy Place, The Truth, The Way — Leave a comment
October 2, 2008

The Tabernacle Is Prophetic Of Jesus

The Tabernacle was built to be the earthly abode of God: the place where God would dwell among His people. The following diagram will enable you to see what the Tabernacle looked like.

The Tabernacle Courtyard

Moses built the Tabernacle in strict conformance to the specifications given by God. For example, in the following scripture God gives Moses a detailed list of the items required to build the Tabernacle:

Then the LORD spoke to Moses, saying: “Speak to the children of Israel, that they bring Me an offering. From everyone who gives it willingly with his heart you shall take My offering. And this is the offering which you shall take from them: gold, silver, and bronze; blue, purple, and scarlet thread, fine linen, and goats’ hair; ram skins dyed red, badger skins, and acacia wood; oil for the light, and spices for the anointing oil and for the sweet incense; onyx stones, and stones to be set in the ephod and in the breastplate. And let them make Me a sanctuary, that I may dwell among them. According to all that I show you, that is, the pattern of the tabernacle and the pattern of all its furnishings, just so you shall make it.” (Exodus 25:1-9)

Statements like this one are frequently found in the scriptures of Moses. Many of these references emphasize building of the Tabernacle precisely to God’s instructions. This fact suggests that the form and content of the Tabernacle is extremely important to God; that perhaps it is designed on a heavenly model, one that will enable God to dwell among His people.

If this is the case, then the Tabernacle must also be prophetic of Christ who also came to dwell with God’s people. What this tells us is that centuries of time did not change the intention of God to dwell with His people.  Even today He continues to strive to restore the relationship man lost with Him at the fall. Therefore, the scriptures that define the specifications, the processes and the objects of the Tabernacle reflect the will of God to abide with us, and therefore, must also be apply to the attributes, words and life of Christ who was sent to fulfill God’s intention.

Jesus, Moses Discuss the Fulfilment of Tabernacle Prophesy

We are going to look at the Tabernacle scriptures as they are prophetic of Christ. If Jesus is the Christ then the attributes and characteristics of the Tabernacle must be clearly demonstrated in His words and deeds. What we are about to reveal is that there is a precise correlation between the Tabernacle and Jesus. It is for this reason that we will use the scriptural specifications for each component of the Tabernacle to prove that Jesus is the Christ. In the process we will also uncover many hidden attributes of Jesus that will serve to help us better understand His nature.


Remembering that Jesus claimed to be “the Way, the Truth and the Life”, we look at the following diagram:

The Chanbers of the Tabernacle

For more information about these entrances (the Way, the Truth and the Life) being used to identify the passageways into each compartment of the Tabernacle, please go to the following website:  You ARE the Temple of the Holy Spirit.

The entrance called, “The Way,” leads us into the Courtyard (or Outer Court). The entrance named, “The Truth,” leads us into the Holy Place, and the entrance called, “The Life,” leads us into the Most Holy Place. It should also be noted that the Tabernacle is constructed in such a way that these entrances can only be entered in one sequence. The Way must be entered prior to entering The Truth, and the Truth must be entered prior to entering The Way. This significance will be discussed latter.

So, what we find here is that the words of Jesus have led us to the Tabernacle. His claim is that He is the entrance into all of the compartments of the Tabernacle, the place that God designated as the dwelling place with His people on earth. Therefore, our plan is to investigate each of these three chambers and identify what it is that He is leading us toward. What we will find is that we will be drawn into a closer relationship with God.

Jesus is drawing us into Himself by showing us that the Tabernacle was a prophetic prototype that would be fulfilled by Him in the establishment of the new covenant. What we are about to discover is that the Tabernacle structure communicates that there are three separate and distinct levels of relationship that we can have with God.

In addition, these relationships can only be obtained by passing through the doors of the Tabernacle in the prescribed sequence. In fact, we will develop a progressively deeper relationship with God as we enter each successive chamber to find the gifts that God has waiting for those who seek Him with all their heart.

While all of this is quite mysterious at a high level, we plan to present the details in subsequent postings. For now we will present a high level overview of our journey through the Tabernacle and its correlation with the life of Jesus. With that said let us start with the Tabernacle Courtyard.


The Tabernacle Courtyard


As we pass through the Tabernacle door called “the Way,” we enter the Courtyard. It is in the Courtyard where we enter into God’s gift of grace which is manifest in the forgiveness of sins. God’s grace in turn, leads us to seek to become more like Him, which in turn prepares us to enter into His ministry. Therefore, the Courtyard is a place of preparation for entry into a closer relationship with God.


When correlating the objects found in the Tabernacle Courtyard to the actions and words of Jesus, we discover Jesus to be a far superior replacement for the old covenant Courtyard. For example, Jesus gave up His body on the cross for our grace and the forgiveness of our sins. In addition, He gave us the example of His life as the model of the perfection we use so that we can see ourselves for what we are, and seek His Holy Spirit to help to prepare for entry into His ministry.


For additional details on the Tabernacle Courtyard please follow the following links:

Jesus-is-the-Outer-Courtyard

Jesus-the-Brazen-Laver

The-Laver-and-the-Holy-Spirit-of-Jesus

Jesus-Washes-the-Feet-of-His-Disciples

Applying-the-Attributes-of-Jesus-our-Laver


The Tabernacle Holy Place


As we pass through the Tabernacle entrance called “the Truth,” we enter into God’s Holy Place. It is in the Holly Place where we enter into God’s gifts of enlightenment, relationship and empowerment. It is here where we are illuminated with the information necessary to guide our steps in ministry and where we come to know the purpose of our life. It is in the Holy Place that we become a member of God’s family and enter a close personal relationship with God. Most importantly, it is here that we enter into spiritual warfare, which is the performance of Gods will on earth by way of our prayers and actions.

When correlating the objects found in the Holy Place to the actions and words of Jesus, we also find that Jesus is a far superior replacement for the old covenant Holy Place. It is only through Jesus that we are able to establish a relationship with the Father. It is Jesus who is our Light of the World, who illuminates our way, and it is the Holy Spirit of Jesus that leads us to be victorious in spiritual warfare. It is therefore through Jesus that our relationship with the Father is restored, our pathway is illuminated and the will of God is manifest.

For additional details on the Holy Place of the Tabernacle please follow the following links:

Jesus-is-the-Holy-Place

Passing-from-the-Way-and-into-the-Truth

Entering-the-Truth-of-the-Tabernacle

Jesus-the-Table-of-Showbread

Applying-the-Attributes-of-Jesus-our-Table-of-Showbread

Jesus-is-the-Light-of-the-World

Jesus-the-Golden-Altar-of-Incense

Jesus-the-Golden-Altar-of-Incense

Jesus-Heals-the-Sick-and-the-Lame

Jesus-Casts-out-Demons

Jesus-is-Victorious-over-an-Evil-Establishment

Jesus-is-Victorious-on-the-Cross

The-Victory-of-Jesus-Empowers-Us

Have-Perfect-Faith-in-Jesus

Jesus-the-Holy-Place-of-Empowerment-and-Truth


The Tabernacle Most Holy Place


As we pass through the Tabernacle entrance called “the Life,” we enter into God’s Most Holy Place. It is in the Most Holly Place where we enter into God’s gift of covenant. It is here that we can talk to God directly in the presence of His holy angels. It is here where our every need is cared for. In the Most Holy place we enter into a sacred and Royal Priesthood that understand and lives God’s commandments.

When correlating the objects found in the Most Holy Place to the actions and words of Jesus, we again find the Jesus is a far superior replacement for the old covenant Most Holy Place. It is Jesus who has become the ark of the New Covenant that is based on love. It is Jesus who is our high priest who enables us to enter into His Royal Priesthood. It is through Jesus that our every need is cared for. It is through Jesus that restored our relationship with the Father, enabling things to become as they were in the beginning, once again.

So we have much to discover about Jesus as we initiate our investigation into His words that lead us to the Tabernacle where we will find a deeper relationship with Him. We will drill down into all of this by starting with “Jesus the Way”, in our next posting. I look forward to your comments and discussion.

For additional details on the Most Holy Place of the Tabernacle please follow the following links:

Jesus-is-the-Life

Jesus-the-Most-Holy-Place

Finding-Jesus-in-the-Holy-of-Holies

Inside-the-Most-Holy-Place

Going-into-the-Ark-of-the-Covenant

Jesus-is-the-Fulfillment-of-the-Law

The-Cross-of-Jesus-is-the-Rod-of-Aaron

Jesus-is-our-Priest-Forever

Jesus-is-our-Covenant-Provision

Jesus-and-the-Covenant

Jesus-is-the-Way-to-the-Promised-Land

Jesus-is-the-Spirtual-Foundation-of-the-New-Covenant

Jesus-Prepares-us-to-Enter-into-His-Spirit

The-Spiritual-Duty-of-the-Warrior-Nation

Jesus-is-the-Reward-of-the-Spirit-Filled-Warrior-Nation

Jesus-and-the-Bride-of-Christ

Jesus-and-the-Cherubim

Jesus-is-the-Mercy-Seat-where-God-Dwells


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Jesus Is The Tabernacle Courtyard

Filed under: Brazen Laver, Jesus, Tabernacle, Tabernacle Courtyard, The Alter of Burnt Offerings, The Way — 2 Comments
February 11, 2008

Jesus Is The Tabernacle Courtyard

In this posting we will continue with our presentation of scripture taken from Exodus in an effort to learn more about the Tabernacle and how it foretold the coming of Jesus.

Then you shall set the altar of the burnt offering before the door of the tabernacle of the tent of meeting. And you shall set the laver between the tabernacle of meeting and the altar, and put water in it. You shall set up the court all around, and hang up the screen at the court gate. And you shall take the anointing oil, and anoint the tabernacle and all that is in it; and you shall hallow it and all its utensils, and it shall be holy. You shall anoint the altar of the burnt offering and all its utensils, and consecrate the altar. The altar shall be most holy. And you shall anoint the laver and its base, and consecrate it. Then you shall bring Aaron and his sons to the door of the tabernacle of meeting and wash them with water. You shall put the holy garments on Aaron, and anoint him and consecrate him, that he may minister to Me as priest. And you shall bring his sons and clothe them with tunics. You shall anoint them, as you anointed their father, that they may minister to Me as priests; for their anointing shall surely be an everlasting priesthood throughout their generations.

This scripture presents the objects found in the Tabernacle Courtyard, which is also referred to simply as the courtyard or in some cases the Outer Courtyard.  One must pass through the gate that is named “the way” when entering into the courtyard. The name of the gate is a direct correlation to the “I am the Way” proclamation of Jesus. The Altar of Burnt Offerings, which is also called the Brazen Altar, is the place that animal sacrifices were burned for the forgiveness of the people’s sins. The priests would first slaughter the animals and then place their carcass on the altar. He would then sprinkle their blood on the objects of the Tabernacle to make them holy.

The Laver is also called the Brazen Laver and it is used as a holding place for water that is used in the priests cleansing, prior to their entering into ministry. The laver also had a mirror like quality to it that enabled the priest to see their reflection as they washed. They viewed this reflection as seeing themselves as God did. This was critical as they were preparing for ministry in the Holy Place where their readiness to move into a deeper relationship with God was critical.

Jesus is our Brazen Altar because His crucifixion was the sacrifice that achieved the forgiveness of our sins. It is through the shedding of His blood on the cross that He bore the punishment we rightly deserve. It is because of this sacrifice that we are able to regain our relationship with the Father.

Jesus is our Brazen Laver because we are cleansed in the waters of His words and deeds found in scripture. It is in comparing our words and actions to those of Jesus that we can clearly see our own faults and shortcomings. We therefore see ourselves as God does. In recognizing our faults we are empowered to change the nature of our hearts and therefore the nature of the person that we are. We become ready for ministry and a deeper relationship with God.

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Applying The Attributes Of Jesus Our Table Of Showbread

Filed under: Jesus, Tabernacle, Table of Showbread, The Holy Place, The Truth, The Way — 1 Comment
November 21, 2007

Applying The Attributes Of Jesus Our Table Of Showbread

In our previous posting we presented the correlation between the attributes of the Table of Showbread and the words and actions of Christ Jesus.

To summarize, the bread placed on the Table of Showbread represented the twelve tribes of Israel, and symbolically represented an offering of God’s people to God. The bread on the table suggested an intimate relationship with God, one in which the people would commune with God just as they did with their family over a meal. The Showbread would be displayed for seven days after which it would be replaced with fresh loaves. The removed bread would then be eaten by the priests who perceived it to be spiritual food.

We then correlated the above attributes of the Table of Showbread to the words and actions of Jesus. We used Jesus’ statement, “I Am the Bread of Life” as a key connection to the Table of Showbread. We then introduced the scriptures of the multiplication of the loaves and fish as a validation to His claim to be the Bread of Life. Next we introduced the scripture in which Jesus proclaimed that anyone who ate the Bread of Life would live forever. This statement was later validated when Jesus was raised from the dead and ascended into heaven. Therefore, the Bread of Life has the power to overcome death and live with God forever. Consequently, is it certainly a spiritual food, just like the loaves eaten by the Tabernacle priests were.

Applying the Principles of Jesus the Bread of Life

In the Lords prayer, it states that the Lord’s will be done, on earth as it is in heaven[i]. Therefore, lets do as our Lord Jesus has commanded us to do by eating His body and drinking His blood symbolically by partaking in the bread and wine as they did at the last supper.

And He took bread, gave thanks and broke it, and gave it to them, saying, “This is My body which is given for you; do this in remembrance of Me.” (Luke 22:19)

We should honor Jesus by doing as He requested in remembrance of Him. We should take His real body and real blood in the communion as He prescribed, eating the bread and drinking the wine of the new covenant, knowing that we are eating spiritual food, and knowing that we are taking Jesus into ourselves in the process.

More that this however, through this physical act we must seek to develop the spiritual body and blood of Jesus in ourselves. This is because our spiritual body needs both nutrition and exercise to properly develop, just as our physical bodies do. We can accomplish this by reading the words of Jesus, and making them a part of us. We can then use His words by asking the Holy Sprit to make them live in our hearts, so that the Word of God becomes a part of us. By doing this we will have achieved the communion with the Lord that was prophesized at the Table of Showbread. The body and blood of Jesus will have set us free[ii] and shown us the “Way” to God, the “Truth” about God and the path to “Life” with God forevermore. Lets us therefore seek Him will all of our heart, with all of our soul, with all of our mind, with all of our strength, and with all that we are.

In doing these things we come to Jesus, the Truth, who sets us free from the bondage of our sinful ways. Our journey through the Truth brings change into our lives:

till we all come to the unity of the faith and of the knowledge of the Son of God, to a perfect man, to the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ; that we should no longer be children, tossed to and fro and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the trickery of men, in the cunning craftiness of deceitful plotting, but, speaking the truth in love, may grow up in all things into Him who is the head; Christ; from whom the whole body, joined and knit together by what every joint supplies, according to the effective working by which every part does its share, causes growth of the body for the edifying of itself in love. This I say, therefore, and testify in the Lord, that you should no longer walk as the rest of the Gentiles walk, in the futility of their mind, having their understanding darkened, being alienated from the life of God, because of the ignorance that is in them, because of the blindness of their heart; who, being past feeling, have given themselves over to lewdness, to work all uncleanness with greediness. But you have not so learned Christ, if indeed you have heard Him and have been taught by Him, as the truth is in Jesus: that you put off, concerning your former conduct, the old man which grows corrupt according to the deceitful lusts, and be renewed in the spirit of your mind, and that you put on the new man which was created according to God, in true righteousness and holiness. Therefore, putting away lying, “Let each one of you speak truth with his neighbor, for we are members of one another. Be angry, and do not sin: do not let the sun go down on your wrath, nor give place to the devil. Let him who stole steal no longer, but rather let him labor, working with his hands what is good, that he may have something to give him who has need. Let no corrupt word proceed out of your mouth, but what is good for necessary edification, that it may impart grace to the hearers. And do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, by whom you were sealed for the day of redemption. Let all bitterness, wrath, anger, clamor, and evil speaking be put away from you, with all malice. And be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, just as God in Christ forgave you. Therefore be imitators of God as dear children.” (Ephesians 4:13, 5-1)

So, we as imitators of God seek to become more like Jesus who is the Bread of Life, our Table of Showbread, in the following ways:

Eat the Body and Blood of Jesus

Eat the body and blood of Jesus in the way that our Lord prescribed at the last supper. Remember that His body is food indeed and His blood is blood in deed. Also eat the body and blood of Jesus spiritually, by absorbing the scriptures about Jesus into you heart.

Seek a Spiritual Relationship with Jesus

Seek Jesus in your prayer time and He will be manifest to you through the presence of the Holy Spirit. The Holy Spirit will enlighten you in all things so take the time to listen for His voice. Also remember to listen for the Lord’s voice and His knocking at your door.

Behold, I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears My voice and opens the door, I will come in to him and dine with him, and he with Me. (Revelation 3:20)

It is only when we open the door called “The Truth” that we can honestly eat the Bread of Life.

Become the Bread of Life for Others

As we eat the Bread of Life and grow in the Lord we will be led to say and do the things that Jesus did. As our overall behavior changes, others will be able to see the goodness of Life that is in us. By the power of the Holy Spirit the intent of the Father will come through us and be deposited in others around us. We therefore are agents of Jesus who are carrying on His mission until His return at the second coming.

In our next post we will introduce the Golden Lampstand. If you have any questions please make a comment. I look forward to hearing from you.

May the peace of our Lord Jesus Christ be will all of you.

Joe Gordon


[i] Matthew6:9-11 In this manner, therefore, pray: Our Father in heaven, Hallowed be Your name. Your kingdom come. Your will be done On earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread.

[ii] John 8:35 And a slave does not abide in the house forever, but a son abides forever. “Therefore if the Son makes you free, you shall be free indeed.

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Applying The Attributes Of Jesus Our Laver

Filed under: Brazen Laver, Jesus, Tabernacle, Tabernacle Courtyard, The Way — 1 Comment
November 6, 2007

Read my amazing true life story about how the forces of good and evil battle for my life and the vision that God has given me. My book, “Possess the Vision,” communicates my supernatural experiences and as a result, provides insight into the realm of the spiritual warfare that is raging for our souls and our purpose. This is a must read for all Christians. Learn more by following this link: Possess-the-Vision-at-Amazon

Applying The Attributes Of Jesus Our Laver


So, based on our previous postings regarding the Laver, we have uncovered a number of key attributes of Christ Jesus. Our intention is to use them as the model of perfection that we are called to become. As we progress in this section, we plan on using these key attributes to help us better understand how our own actions and decisions compare to the pure light of Jesus’ life, hoping that they will reveal our hidden faults. As with any scripture that teaches us about Jesus, we have the opportunity to meditate on these stories and ask the Holy Spirit to enlighten us to the truth. When we find similar circumstances in our own life we should ask ourselves, “What actions did I take (or not take) and what needs to change for me to be more like Jesus?”

As mentioned in our previous posts, cleansing at the Brazen Laver was a prerequisite for entering into the Holy place of God. In addition, the Holy place of God is a place of enlightenment, relationship with the Father and success in spiritual warfare. Therefore, it is necessary for us to focus on Jesus our Laver, for the purification necessary achieve a closer relationship with God. A loving relationship that will enlighten our pathway and empower us in the ministry He has chosen for us. This purification can come only through Christ Jesus because He is the one living Tabernacle that came down from heaven[i].


In our last posting we spent quite a bit of time looking at the scripture of Jesus washing the feet of His disciples. It may be a good idea to review this posting prior to proceeding as it is referenced substantially in this document.


So now we can proceed with our list of the attributes of Jesus that have been introduced in our section entitled “Jesus the Brazen Laver”. I hope that you will be able to use this list to better understand who Jesus is, so that you can apply the model of Jesus the Laver to your life.


Be Of Service To Others


One of the strongest messages from the material presented so far is that disciples must possess a servant’s heart and that true greatness comes only from serving others in ministry. This message was forgotten by Jesus’ disciples, who had been contending with each other over who would be the greatest after Jesus was gone. Apparently, Jesus’ prior teaching on service to others had not changed their hearts or their behavior. It is for this reason that Jesus had to address this flaw with them again. The following scripture is Jesus’ teaching on the subject:


But they kept silent, for on the road they had disputed among themselves who would be the greatest. And He sat down, called the twelve, and said to them, “If anyone desires to be first, he shall be last of all and servant of all.” (Mark 9:34-35)

Do What Ever It Takes

A second key point is to do whatever it takes to get the message across. In the case of Jesus washing the feet of His disciples, Jesus gets their attention by performing an activity (the washing of feet) that was assigned to the lowest of servants in their culture[ii]. The message here is to disregard social norms concerning status in society when serving God. With Jesus, God leveled the social status playing field.

Lead By Example

Another teaching is to do more than just preach the Word, but rather, lead by example in the things that the word instructs as well[iii]. Jesus spoke to His disciples about who would be the greatest with no apparent effect. Therefore, it took a personal demonstration to drive home the point (in washing their feet). His disciples must have been humbled by how radically He lowered Himself to serve them. They must have been personally touched as He personally ministered to each and every one of them. Just think about what they must have been thinking while He washed their feet. They would have had to realize at that moment, just how far they had fallen short of the will of God in their behavior. The message from Jesus is clear, He did not come to be served but to serve83, and He wants His disciples to do the same. His actions demonstrated the will of God. He spoke the truth and He did what He told others He would do. He came to serve others, which was exemplified not only in the washing of feet but in His ultimate sacrifice on the cross as well.

Become A Model For Others

Jesus was a model for His disciples and for each and every one of us as well. Should we not be the same for others as well? This means that our lives are to be a Godly example for others. The things we do and say must demonstrate the love of Jesus to others. We cannot hide our God given light under a basket, but rather place it in the center of the house where all can see, as adequately communicated by Jesus in the following passage:


Nor do they light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a lamp stand, and it gives light to all who are in the house. Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven. (Matthew 5:15 – 16)

Be Careful With Whom You Walk In Ministry


My belief is that one of the reasons that Jesus washed the feet of the disciples could have been that they had walked in ministry with Judas who betrayed Jesus. In washing their feet they were once again cleansed for the ministry of Christ Jesus.

Also note that Jesus did not join the ministries of the Pharisees, Sadducees or any other sect of their religion. He knew that they loved the status and power that their positions brought much more than they loved doing the will of God. One must consider that if evil had entered into the leadership positions of the church during the time of Jesus, then why would we believe that it cannot happen today? It is precisely for this reason that we must seek to have an even closer relationship with God than can be achieved in the Outer Courtyard of the Tabernacle (relationship of grace) alone. We must move into the Holy Place of God (relationship of empowerment) where our pathway will be illuminated, we eat the Bread of Life and we will enter into spiritual warfare to defeat the enemies of God and of our ministry. All of this starts with cleansing at the Brazen Alter that is life of Jesus. We must have discernment about others that we walk with in ministry.

Disregard Status, Rank And Position


Peter did not want Jesus to wash His feet because he believed that it was beneath the dignity of His Lord and Savior to perform the task of the lowest of slaves. But this is precisely the reason that the message was delivered! Jesus is teaching them that they should disregard status, rank and position in service to one another. These things are things of the world and unimportant in the kingdom of God. Therefore, the leader of a ministry is a servant to the workers and followers of that ministry. A Pastor is a servant to the congregation. An evangelist is a servant to the newly converted to Christ. A teacher of God’s Word is a servant to the pupils who seek to do the will of God. And, while each of these positions come with some level of status or rank in the world, the true Christian abandons rank, status and position in favor of service in ministry to others. We all should serve our brothers and sisters in the Lord. This means that if we are members of a ministry that we also need to serve our pastors and ministers that God has given to us as they in turn serve us. In addition, we need to do all things as a service unto the Lord:


…and said to them, “Whoever receives this little child in My name receives Me; and whoever receives Me receives Him who sent Me. For he who is least among you all will be great.” (Luke 9:48)

Personally Touch People


In washing His disciple’s feet, Jesus touched each disciple. In fact, the disciples were being touched continuously by the teaching and demonstration of spiritual truth in the ministry of Jesus. They were with Him constantly as He ministered to others. They listened as He taught others, and they witnessed the miracles He performed. In addition, they received the benefit of His personal explanations, teachings, and warnings regarding the Scribes and the Pharisees. They witnessed Jesus’ special relationship with the Father in the Transfiguration on the mountain and in the ascension of Jesus into Heaven. The disciples had to be touched by these events as they witnessed the glory of God demonstrated on earth.


The Bible asks us to follow in Jesus’ foot steps. We must touch people personally. Not just in the laying on of hands, but in stepping out in faith and expecting to witness the glory of God demonstrated by the power of the Holy Spirit right here on earth. There should be healing of the sick, the resurrection of the dead, miraculous provisions for the poor, and miracles of all kinds demonstrated for all to see God’s love for His people. God’s heartfelt desire is to wipe away every tear and provide every good thing for His people. After all, the Father gave His own Son. Why would He spare anything else from those who love Him130?

Be Humble


Jesus used His own life as an ideal demonstration of how we are to act. Jesus did not have a home. He did not build a church of stone. He did not study as a Scribe or Pharisee but, rather, challenged the religious leaders of His day with the truth. In doing so, He was subjected to their scorn and the persecution that followed.

Jesus asked those who were healed not to identify Him as their healer. He did not come to brag about what He could do. His concern was for the people.

Be ready and willing to take on any task you are led toward by the power of the Holy Spirit. Disregard how you will appear to others, what they may think or even your own level of dignity. God wants to see how much you are willing to give up of this world to do His will. He wants to see how much you love Him.

Eliminate Worldly Desires

Jesus had a desire for us to know the truth and spiritually return to the loving arms of the Father. He had no desire for anything of this earth. He had no desire for honor, dignity, riches or glory. He only did the things that He saw the Father do62. Therefore, we also must eliminate all desire for worldly honor, dignity, riches and glory. The disciples contended with each other over who got the most glory and honor. This type of behavior, if left unchecked, could have destroyed the foundation of the church. It is the same principle today as it was 2000 years ago. Disagreement between the leaders of a ministry can destroy the foundation of that ministry. Keep your eyes on Jesus. Seek Him with all of your heart, mind and soul.

Eliminate Self-Exaltation


Self-exaltation is a specific demonstration of worldly desire and is an indication of our old nature to seek worldly gratification. This human tendency means that we should examine our motives for doing everything. We must continuously ask ourselves; am I doing this for myself, or am I doing this for the Lord? Am I looking for power, control or recognition by taking these actions? Self-exaltation has no place among Christians. We must eliminate it from our behavior. We must avoid the spirit of domination of others and of seeking personal glory.

Be Baptized In Watter And Spirit


John baptized in water to make straight the pathway[iv] for the Lord’s ministry. Jesus was also baptized in water, and as a result received the baptism of the Holy Spirit in the process. The disciples of Jesus baptized others as a part of their ministry. In addition, Jesus commanded them to baptize others in the grand commission. Be baptized and repent of your sins. Seek the baptism of the Holy Spirit and make the baptism of others a part of you ministry.

Know That You Will Be Tested


Immediately after receiving the baptism of the Holy Spirit, Jesus was led into the wilderness and tested by Satan for forty days. Satan tempted Jesus with everything that he had in an effort to get Him to deny his purpose and his ministry. In denying the temptations of Satan, Jesus proved that He was a worthy of ministry. He defeated Satan by resisting all of the temptations of this world and remaining true to His Father’s mission for Him. He successfully resisted the temptations of the flesh, of power, of riches and fame. He chose the path of the Spirit of God in favor of the path of the spirit of this world.

Know The Scriptures


Get an understanding of what Jesus did, what He valued, what He said, what He prophesied, and who He proclaimed Himself to be. Memorize the words of Jesus that you find uplifting. Ask the Holy Spirit to help you understand the scriptures so that Jesus is revealed to you.

Take Time To Meditate And Reflect

Reflect on the state of your heart and your life. Bring to mind the actions and words of Jesus and ask how does this compare to the actions of my own life? How could I have done things differently?

Ask The Holy Spirit For Help

We need God’s help to achieve the kind of change we are looking for. We simply cannot achieve this kind of change on our own. Seek the Holy Spirit and bring the issues you are dealing with to Him. Pray for positive change in the name of Jesus.

Jesus the Model of What We Can Become

It is at the laver where we take the time necessary to reflect upon our shortcomings and the things that we must do to become more like our Savior. One thing is certain and it is that we are not likely to achieve the perfection that Jesus did on this earth, and yet, the reality is that God wants us to become like Him[v]. As we follow the lead of the Holy Spirit, and choose to change at His leading, we become more like Jesus, one step at a time. Slowly we are transformed back toward the image and likeness of God, knowing that one day we will be united with Jesus and shine as brightly as He demonstrated in the transfiguration. Here is the truth according to Mathew:

Now after six days Jesus took Peter, James, and John his brother, led them up on a high mountain by themselves; and He was transfigured before them. His face shone like the sun, and His clothes became as white as the light and behold, Moses and Elijah appeared to them, talking with Him. Then Peter answered and said to Jesus, “Lord, it is good for us to be here; if You wish, let us make here three tabernacles: one for You, one for Moses, and one for Elijah.” While he was still speaking, behold, a bright cloud overshadowed them; and suddenly a voice came out of the cloud, saying, “This is My beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased. Hear Him!” And when the disciples heard it, they fell on their faces and were greatly afraid. But Jesus came and touched them and said, “Arise, and do not be afraid.” When they had lifted up their eyes, they saw no one but Jesus only. Now as they came down from the mountain, Jesus commanded them, saying, “Tell the vision to no one until the Son of Man is risen from the dead.” (Matthew 17:1-9)

So, when Jesus claimed to be the Way, He used His own life as example of what we can become. In the example above Jesus gives us a glimpse into the bright and shining spiritual being that we can become. Certainly, the reflection at the Laver calls us to examine the state of our lives in comparison to the perfect model which is Jesus. In addition, we have to ask the question; are we ready to move into a closer and more intimate relationship with God or is there something that is holding us back?

Being able to answer this question requires an in-depth understanding of Jesus, and we often find ourselves studying Bible to get that understanding. In understanding the words and actions of Jesus we are much better prepared to identify our improvement areas. In addition, as in all things, we seek the help of the Holy Spirit in identifying and achieving change. Jesus is, “The Way” to effective change because when we become more like Him, we do the things that He did, we speak the words that He spoke, we conform our heart to His compassion level and we earnestly seek to please the Father in all that we do, just like He did.

Based on the life of Jesus we chose to change to be like Him. We read the scripture like the, “Washing of feet” passage above, and we are convicted in our hearts by our own sad life style. We seek the Holy Spirit to help us change our lives such that we serve other Christians and cast aside any focus we may have on our own importance or self interests. In implementing these changes we move closer to God. We become more like Jesus, the Son of God, continuously seeking to conform to the perfect image of Jesus. After all, we are the Bride of Christ46.

“The Way” Leads to the Courtyard of Grace

“The Way” is a name that is sometimes used for the gate that leads to the Tabernacles Outer Court where a relationship of grace is established with God. It is here in the Outer Court that the Holy Spirit leads us to repentance and compels us to ask for forgiveness of our sins.

We are led to the Outer Court when we become so desperate for help that all we can do is give up and search for God for an answer. We call out to Him and He draws us in. He enables us to reflect upon who we are, how we have failed, and most importantly, how He is the only Way. Eventually, we break down, repent and ask forgiveness.


As we dwell in the Outer Court, we are also persuaded to look at Jesus, His life and His deeds. By looking at Him, we can see in our hidden imperfections in the pure light of God. We are led to reexamine our actions and life choices based upon the purity of His. We are humbled by our discoveries and know that we owe a debit that we cannot pay. Fortunately, the shed blood of Jesus, the Lamb, has already earned our forgiveness and His body has been burned upon the Alter of God in payment. It is in the Outer Court that He took the punishment that we deserved for our sin upon Himself, therein, setting us free from sin. The result is that our nature is changed. Our hearts and minds are conformed to the heart and mind of Jesus.

In the Outer Court we enter into a cycle of reflection, self discovery, repentance and forgiveness that continues until God determines that we are ready to enter into an even closer relationship with Him. A relationship that requires that we pass through the passageway called, “The Truth” and enter into His Holy Place which is the topic of our next major section.


[i] Revelation 21:3 And I heard a loud voice from heaven saying, “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.

[ii] Spirit Filled Life Bible, p 1600, note 13-5

[iii] James 1:23 – 24 For if anyone is a hearer of the word and not a doer, he is like a man observing his natural face in a mirror; for he observes himself, goes away, and immediately forgets what kind of man he was.

[iv] John 1:23 He said: “I am ‘The voice of one crying in the wilderness: “Make straight the way of the LORD,” ‘ as the prophet Isaiah said.

[v] Mat 5:48 Therefore you shall be perfect, just as your Father in heaven is perfect.

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The Laver And The Holy Spirit Of Jesus

Filed under: Brazen Laver, Jesus, spirtual warfare, Tabernacle, Tabernacle Courtyard, The Truth, The Way — 1 Comment
October 29, 2007

In our last posting, we introduced the Brazen Laver and compared its attributes and purpose to those of the life of Jesus. Based on the material presented, we claimed that the Laver was prophetic of Christ. From this point forward, we will attempt to develop a deeper understanding of how Jesus fulfills the promise of this component of the Tabernacle.

Being Born of the Spirit

In one of His teachings Jesus raises the subject of being born again, which is being born of water and spirit. Jesus introduces this subject in the following passage:

Jesus answered and said to him, “Most assuredly, I say to you, unless one is born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God.” Nicodemus said to Him, “How can a man be born when he is old? Can he enter a second time into his mother’s womb and be born?” Jesus answered, “Most assuredly, I say to you, unless one is born of water and the Spirit, he cannot enter the kingdom of God. That which is born of the flesh is flesh, and that which is born of the Spirit is spirit. Do not marvel that I said to you, ‘You must be born again.’ The wind blows where it wishes, and you hear the sound of it, but cannot tell where it comes from and where it goes. So is everyone who is born of the Spirit.” (John 3:3-7)

Notice that being born again is necessary to see or enter into the kingdom of God. Therefor, the baptism of Jesus in the Jordan (previously covered) was a necessary foundation of what we must do to enter the kingdom of God.

Reach out for thr Living Water

 

Everlasting life is achieved by reaching out for the living waters that Jesus provides in the form of the Holy Spirit of God. Jesus is the source of these living waters in the same way that the Laver is the container for the water used by the priests for purification prior to ministry. In the following passage, Jesus uses water (living water) in a symbolic way of the Holy Spirit:

Jesus answered and said to her, “If you knew the gift of God, and who it is who says to you, ‘Give Me a drink,’ you would have asked Him, and He would have given you living water.” The woman said to Him, “Sir, You have nothing to draw with, and the well is deep. Where then do You get that living water? Are You greater than our father Jacob, who gave us the well, and drank from it himself, as well as his sons and his livestock?” Jesus answered and said to her, “Whoever drinks of this water will thirst again, but whoever drinks of the water that I shall give him will never thirst. But the water that I shall give him will become in him a fountain of water springing up into everlasting life.” The woman said to Him, “Sir, give me this water, that I may not thirst, nor come here to draw.” (John 4:10-15)

The Grand Commission – Go out Baptizing

After Jesus’ death and resurrection, Jesus visited the disciples several times prior to His ascension into heaven. On one such occasion, He gave His disciples what many call the grand commission. What we are about to uncover is that baptism is a very significant part of the grand commission.

Then the eleven disciples went away into Galilee, to the mountain which Jesus had appointed for them. When they saw Him, they worshiped Him; but some doubted. And Jesus came and spoke to them, saying, “All authority has been given to Me in heaven and on earth. Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all things that I have commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age.” Amen. (Matthew 28:16-20)

Jesus is the Brazen Laver

 

As stated previously, the purpose of the Laver was to provide a place of cleansing prior to any priest entering into ministry. For example, cleansing was required prior to entering into the Holy Place of God for ministry.

In addition, the shape of the Laver required the priest to bend over it and look into the water while washing. Since the inside surface of the Laver consisted of a highly polished brass, the priest was able to see his own reflection as he washed. Many believe that he would see himself as God saw him. If this is the case, then the prist would have to contemplate their readyness to enter into ministry in the Holy Place of God. He would have to examine his worthiness to enter into a closer relationship with the almighty God. Finally, this reflection would have been the motivation necessary to initiate the permenent change necessary for a Godly ministry.

Jesus is our Laver because it is in reading the scriptures, and especially in the words of Jesus, that we come to examine how our heart and compassion for people compare to those of our Lord. The words of Jesus are the vehicle through which we are empowered by the Holy Spirit to see ourselves as we truly are. His words convict us in our heart to change our nature. By reading about His life and His words, we become purified and empowered by the Holy Spirit and are changed. We are changed in body, mind, heart and spirit into a new creation[i]. We seek a deeper relationship with God and the desire for evil is removed from our nature.

Comparing the Brazen Laver to Jesus

 

For us who live today, the process of moving into a closer relationship with God is much the same as it was for the priests who served at the Tabernacle. It starts with a genuine yearning for a closer relationship with God and is often accompanied with the remorse for our sins and the wonderment of how God could have been so loving as to set us free from the errors of our ways. So, while the Tabernacle priest saw his reflection in the clear waters of the Laver, we see ourselves by looking into the pure words and actions of Jesus as presented in scripture. It is in this self realization that the Holy Spirit pulls on our heart to reach out for God with an honest and open heart to beg for forgiveness and to seek to change.

One reason that Jesus was sent by the Father was to reveal God’s truth. His life has served as an example for the disciples who lived over 2000 years ago, as it does for us also today. The pathway to ministry is clearly seen through the life and words of Jesus as presented in the scriptures of the Bible. In effect, we require the reflection of God’s perfect mirror in order to see ourselves for what we really are. This is because we are often blinded to our own shortcomings until we look into His perfect deeds, words, and compassionate heart, and contrast them to our own. This can only happen when we are drawn by God into a relationship with Him that fills our hearts with a desire to go deeper. When we do our hearts will yearn for purity out of a desire to love and please God.

When we look at the life of Jesus, we find how far we fall short of the mark. We see how radically different the actions of Jesus are from our own. We see that Jesus conveyed perfect love in His actions, and we are humbled as our short comings are revealed.

We repent as we reflect about our life, heart, mind, and the quality of our walk with Him. We repent as we reflect upon what we are and seek to become what God wants us to be. We repent as we examine ourselves — what we say and do. We repent as we prepare ourselves to move into a spiritual relationship with God. We change through the conforming[ii] of our mind[iii] to be like Him.

This repenting is the same as our purification at the Brazen Laver. It is empowered by the Holy Spirit who leads us into these self-discoveries and in a direction of becoming a changed person. Our hearts burn to become what God wants us to become — sons of the living God. We keep coming back for reflection and cleansing in an effort to achieve spiritual purity. This purity enables us to become spiritual priests that can enter into Gods presence in the Holy Place.

One critical component associated with the purity achieved through baptism in the Holy Spirit is that it necessary for haveing victory over the devil, which is the primary purpose of ministry. This is reinforced by the scripture about Jesus being led into the wilderness by the spirit and immediately entered into spiritual warfare with the devil. The devil tempted Jesus with everything he had in this world but Jesus had no desire for the things of this world. He was spiritually pure, which means that He had no evil desire for the things of this world in Him. There is a lesson here for everyone who contemplates entering into ministry. Any little flaw can cause us to stumble and fail to be effective against the devil, and as a consequence, in our ministry. Jesus’ ministry started with physical depravity and testing. Know that you will be thoroughly tested as well. Jesus’ victory over the temptations of Satan preceded the message and acts of His ministry. Know that you must be victorious over Satan prior to being successful in ministry as well.

In summary, Jesus is the fulfilled prophesy of the Brazen Laver for several reasons. First of all, only by looking directly into Him are we able to see ourselves with clarity. Secondly, as we repent for falling short of the mark, He cleanses us in His own blood and, therein, forgives us of our sin. Thirdly, as we seek purity and thereby change to become like Him, we receive the baptism of the Holy Spirit that empowers our change and supports our ministry.

In our next posting we will look at the specific instances in Jesus’ life that support this message.

[i] 2 Corinthians 5:17 Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; old things have passed away; behold, all things have become new.

[ii] 1 Pet 1:14 – 16 as obedient children, not conforming yourselves to the former lusts, as in your ignorance; but as He who called you is holy, you also be holy in all your conduct, because it is written, “Be holy, for I am holy.”

[iii] Ephesians 4:22 – 24 that you put off, concerning your former conduct, the old man which grows corrupt according to the deceitful lusts, and be renewed in the spirit of your mind, and that you put on the new man which was created according to God, in true righteousness and holiness.

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