Q3. Praying to a Wealthy God

[Pastor Ralph]

Q3. (1:18) What is the result in prayer and faith if believers think that God is poverty-stricken? How does knowledge of a "glorious inheritance" motivate our lives? Our prayers? How can you pray for others to glimpse this inheritance?

[pickledilly]

If God were poverty-stricken, He would have no better resources to draw on than I do! I wouldn't be able to count on Him for power, ability, or provision for any need I have. Such a condition would definitely influence my faith and prayers - in a negative way. I couldn't expect He could help me, and so I wouldn't ask and believe. What a conviction I sense as I write these statements. Although the Lord is absolutely NOT poverty-stricken, too many believers too much of the time act as though He is just that. We DON'T act as though He has better resources to draw on than we do. We DON'T count on Him for power, ability, or provision for the needs we have. We DON'T really trust He can help so we DON'T ask and believe. Our flawed perception of the Lord then weakens our faith and prayers, and it paralyzes us in our defeated, weak, and impoverished condition.

To really gain insight of the truth of our inheritance in Christ would transform us. Not only does the Lord have a glorious rich supply set aside and designated for believers to see us through this mortal life, He has an inheritance established in and permeated with glory awaiting us for our future life in eternity. And this inheritance is already "in the saints" - in me! I know from Colossians 1:27 that my hope of glory is Christ in me. This inheritance of, by, and in glory has already been sealed in me by the presence of His Spirit within. My confident assurance that this hope will one day be fully and tangibly realized (Heb.11:1) is the empowering faith that should motivate me to stop living daily life and communicating with the Lord as though I am poverty-stricken. As His child, I am rich in glory (which, from Strong's concordance, I draw a composite meaning of "fullness, heft, weight of dignity, honor, splendor")! I need to claim possession of what He has given to me. In Him, I am no lightweight to be helplessly tossed around by the enemy like a rag doll, or to cower in fear at every crisis, or to live like a defeated pauper! Praise my glorious Lord

[RonS]

What is the result in prayer and faith if believers think that God is poverty-stricken?

How can you expect to get help from someone you think is no better off then your self? Your prayers are really just empty words if you don

[sunilbernard]

Q3. (1:18) What is the result in prayer and faith if believers think that God is poverty-stricken? How does knowledge of a "glorious inheritance" motivate our lives? Our prayers? How can you pray for others to glimpse this inheritance?

If the believers think that God is poverty stricken, then the result would be nil because the very prayers will be formal and name' sake. They will be mouthing the prayers without any conviction. In effect, it will be a waste time. Whereas the knowledge of our glorious inheritance will prod us to pray with expectancy, to live our lives full of zeal and vigor. Motivation is there to excel in our endeavors and earn brighter crowns and bigger mansions, so to speak. We know we will rewarded according to our efforts. 5 Talents will be added 5 more and 2 talents will be added two more. The incentive to fare better in the kingdom of God is the crown of glory that the glorious King will give to us. Our prayers will be in sync to our lives and in return we will pray for others that they too would be exposed to this glorious vision and do better in thier lives.

[Lorraine Wright]

Q3. (1:18) What is the result in prayer and faith if believers think that God is poverty-stricken? How does knowledge of a "glorious inheritance" motivate our lives? Our prayers? How can you pray for others to glimpse this inheritance?

If believers thought that God was poverty-stricken I don't believe he would have many followers. If people thought that God could do no better then themselves why bother. If they could just understand what awaits them, not in material things but in eternal things "God's Riches At Christ's Expense". I would pray that their gearts be opened so that they would truly understand everthing that awaits them.

[June]

.They don't really expect a lot if they don't believe that God is wealthy. He owns the cattle on a thousand hills and the hills too. Wimpy, weak prayers produce very little. What we think is impossible God says just believe and have faith, for I make all things possible.

To share in the Glorious inheritance makes the adrenalin flow, just to know that one day I will be in the presence of my Creator and inherit those riches, WOW!!! And to recognize that I have the same power as the prophets & priests of old makes the desire to pray more evident every day.

To pray for others in the same way. To have the eyes of their hearts opened to see all that God has provided for us "His Children" and to grasp on to it What a wonderful world this would be if we were all that much!! Everybody would be praying & laying on hands for healing.

[Lisa Rupert]

Q3. (1:18) What is the result in prayer and faith if believers think that God is poverty-stricken?

IT IS UNFORTUNATE THAT MANY LIVE THEIR LIVES WITH THIS BELIEF SYSTEM TODAY. THEY ARE AWARE OF THIS INHERITANCE OFFERED BY GOD BUT CHOOSE THE INHERITENCE THEY CAN ACQUIRE HERE ON THIS EARTH INSTEAD. THE INHERITENCE THEY CAN PROVIDE TO FEED THEIR OWN EGO'S. SOME PREFER THE EARTHLY REWARD WE CAN SHOW OUR FAMILIES, FRIENDS, IMPRESS OUR ENEMIES AND FEEL A REAL SENSE OF ACCOMPLICEMENT FROM. THAT IS WHY PAUL STATES THAT MANY "FALL SHORT" BECAUSE THEY CAN'T COMPREHEND THAT THERE IS AND WILL BE A GREATER REWARD IN HEAVEN.

How does knowledge of a "glorious inheritance" motivate our lives?

IT MOTIVATES ME TO LOOK FORWARD TO THE REWARD MY FATHER HAS SETUP IN HEAVEN FOR ME. TO TAKE A LOOK AT THE BIG PICTURE AND NOT ONLY SEE THE SMALL REWARDS OFFERED HERE ON EARTH. NOT TO TAKE UP AND WORSHIP EARTHLY TREASURES FOR THEY HAVE NO MEANING. BUT TO LOOK FOR THE PRIZE THAT WILL COME IN THE END. THE GRAND PRIZE OF PRIZES.

Our prayers?

IT DIRECTS OUR PRAYS AWAY FROM EARTHLY TREASURES AND FOCUSES ON THE REWARD WE WILL RECEIVE IN HEAVEN. IT LET'S OUR FATHER KNOW THAT WE REMEMBER THE GREAT PRICE JESUS PAID FOR US TO RECEIVE THIS GRAND INHERITANCE.

How can you pray for others to glimpse this inheritance?

WE CAN PRAY LIKE PAUL THAT OTHERS WILL BE ABLE TO COMPREHEND IN TIME AND NOT FALL SHORT OF THE GREATEST REWARD THAT IS OUR INHERITENCE. A REWARD THAT IS BEYOND ANYTHING WE CAN COMPARE TO ANY EARTHLY TREASURE WE SETUP FOR OURSELVES.

[MannyVelarde]

Q3. (1:18) What is the result in prayer and faith if believers think that God is poverty-stricken? How does knowledge of a "glorious inheritance" motivate our lives? Our prayers? How can you pray for others to glimpse this inheritance?

Result is low expectations - if God is poverty stricken - then why pray in the first place. - would people even believe or worship Him.

Knowing we have a glorious inheritance is encouraging - it is where we accumulate ou treasures not on earthly things. Altho the inheritance is our desire - our motivation should be the mere fact that we love God - because He is God.

We can pray with excitement, love and sincerety for others to understand and glimpse this inheritance. Praying for their eyes to be opened and also praying that we will be the best possible example - reflecting our Messiah to show this inheritance.

[Alicea]

What is the result in prayer and faith if believers think that God is poverty-stricken? How does knowledge of a "glorious inheritance" motivate our lives? Our prayers? How can you pray for others to glimpse this inheritance?

If you don't think God has much you are not going to ask for much if anything at all. It motivates joy into our lives. fills our prayers with hope and faith. Once again, pray that the full love of God be revealed to them. As Paul said, the eyes of their understanding be enlightened. I pray that the Lord will reveal His word to them, if not me, then to send a servant who will have the words from God that they will be able to hear. I pray for the Lord to prepare their hearts to receive the seed of the word in good ground so that it will take deep root and grow.

[ekila]

Q3. (1:18) What is the result in prayer and faith if believers think that God is poverty-stricken? No one in his or her right mind would think that God is Poverty stricken. He is a God of abundance. People pray according to their needs and are confined to a need basis. I guess it is a matter of your condition when praying. Gaining strength from the Lord in times of sittuations and storms so that your views of the Father are not blurred and that you pray with a sound mind knowing that he is a God who's love is so enduring. Have Faith and be strong and confident in the Lord. Let his spirit be our Guide and consellor so that we do not pray prayers of limitation to our God. Amen

How does knowledge of a "glorious inheritance" motivate our lives? Often times men is so bogged down with the earthly struggles and sometimes the thought of the glorious inheritance does not occur at all. Only when when takes times and prayers in spirit and in truth that truth shall be manifested through revelations of the Holy Spirit. Be still and know that I am the LOrd he, says to us. Peace of the mind and the spirit are to to be pursued so that you are not disillisioned and caused to pray hasty prayers under pressure.

Our prayers? How can you pray for others to glimpse this inheritance?

Prayer that others can be blessed with peace and trust the Lord for he is good and will always keep his promise. Pray that an abundance of peace be upon others so that they do not digress and pray randomly. Pray that others can be reminded to pray ceasely for strenght and courage to endure.

[Elder9]

One result would be a cessation of prayer. What's the use. All hope would be for naught. If our God isn't greater than us, then we're the same, only one of us is calling himself God. Talk about a real downer.

Once we realize that God has riches in store for the faithful Saints, eyes that have not yet seen, nor ears that couldn't possibly hear of it and a heart that couldn't comprehind what God has in store for us. I want that. It gives me motivation and hope. That after living a life now, sometimes going without there's a better life ahead.

My prayers become not so much a "gimmie" list, but I can ask for things within His Word and watch Him honar my Faith. It provkes me to rely upon Him for everything, and ask Him anything (within His bounderies).

I'd pray that they abandon themselves to God and dive deeply into His Word for comfirmation. God is not a man that He should Lie ... I'd suggest if they can find their need in His Word, then there's also close by an answer. I'd encourage them to read His last will and testament (OT & NT) for humanity, find out what God said is ours. What we can ask for and receive now, and what we can expect to receive after this life is over.

[Roberta]

Q3, What is the result in prayer and faith if believers think that God is poverity-stricken? How does knowledge of a "glorious inheritance" motivate our lives? Our prayers? How can you pray for others to glimpse this inheritance?

God is not poverity-stricken, He is glorious and full of abundance in ones life. We are motivated by our inner awearness. The "Hope" We are motivated by the hope that is in us. In the Message I like it best. "But I do more that thak. I ask--ask the God of our Master, Jesus Christ, the God of Glory--to make you intelligent and discerning in knowing hom personally, your eyes focused and clear, so that you can see exactly what is is he is calling you to do. grasp the immensity of this glorious way of life he has for Christians, oh the utter extravagance of his work in us who trust him--endless, energy, boundless strength. "

[Sadie Stromberg]

Q3, What is the result in prayer and faith if believers think that God is poverity-stricken? How does knowledge of a "glorious inheritance" motivate our lives? Our prayers? How can you pray for others to glimpse this inheritance?

If believers thinks that God is poverty-stricken, their view of God's power would be greatly diminished. All that is in the universe really belongs to him. He is able to do more than our minds can comprehend with whatever resources he desires.

Knowledge of a "glorious inheritance" should motivate us to pray boldly with complete faith that God is able to do all that He says He is able to do. We should pray scriptures back to God that illustrate the promises that He has made to us.

We can pray that all Christians will realize the wealth that is the Father's and that we are heirs to this wealth. Praise the Lord, I'm a child of the King!

[s8nfighter]

This world is full of God's rich provisions for all his people, if you think God is a God of poverty just look around at what He has provided and you will see His richkes. There are people living in poverty true, but this is not of God's doing, it is of mans doing.

Prosperity preaching has done more harm to the word of God than anything else I can imagine. The book "The prayer of Jabez" is a good example. Throughout the book the author (cannot remember the guys name) says to pray this prayer and prosperity will come your way. Put a calender on the frig. Mark it off daily for a month and see if God does not answer your prayers.

Now, just imagine if at the end of 30 days of praying the prayer of Jabez with great faith and expectations, your rent is still one month behind and your shoes still have holes in them and your car still won't start, Who are you going to be upset with? Other than yourself for spending $10 on a worthless book. Then you turn on the T.V. and here a prosperity preacher asking for donations with a claim that he wants to be a trillionaire because the world has billionaires already. Gettring rich off the donations of the poor. Lets get into the word here and see what is truth.

The truth is that Jesus said the poor will always be among you. It is not by their choice nor by God's desire, it is by the greed of a few. Jesus said His ways are not the ways of the world nor His values the values of the world, what we hoard so much God uses for pavement. I cannot see where some people would want to spend 10,000 dollars or more on a bunch of gawdy jewlery to show off and praise God for it. Just baffles my mind.

And to top it off I wonder why Paul stripped off everything of the world so as not to impeed his race to the goal. What was his goal? More money? No the reward and the goal are not of this world.

Darrell

[winevine03]

As much as I hate to say it, if God is poverty-stricken than He has nothing to offer us, and we, well, will not take Him seriously, as He has nothing to offer us.

I am motivated by riches of grace, and everlasting peace.

My prayers are motivated right now, by the desire to know the God who is passionate about my relationship with Him.

I can pray for God to open the eyes of their hearts, like He did mine.

[lindaparadise]

What is the result in prayer and faith if believers think that God is poverty-stricken?

that it's worthless. you do things (pray) because you have hope. otherwise why do it.

How does knowledge of a "glorious inheritance" motivate our lives? Our prayers?

a reason to do it. something to come out of it. being able to inherit an ever lasting life in heaven with GOD.

How can you pray for others to glimpse this inheritance?

you see someone in trouble would you go over and do what you can. needing salavation is someone in need of help from GOD and your prayer is part of your helping in a way that you can.

[revking88]

If God is poverty-stricken what is the point?

It is exciting to know that there is something better waiting for us.

It is motivating, kind of gives us a push, sometimes a shove, to do His will. To pray more earnestly for others as well as ourlseves to get to know Him better.

We can pray for others to see the greatness of God and all that He offers us and all that is waiting for us.

REMEMBER JESUS IS THE REASON FOR THE SEASON!

[Helenmm]

If believers think God is poverty stricken they will not excercise faith and prayer will be ineffective. Our God is a God of abundant life, overflowing joy, and ownership beyond our imagination. To see Him as less is to embrace a lie and not to know Him. But God promises us in 1Cor13 that one day we will know Him as He now knows us. Meanwhile he gives us lots of clues! He encourages us to explore Him. Exploring creation is a great and wonderful thing, but even that does not begin to compare with exploring our relationship with our Creator!

Knowledge of our great inheritance takes our eyes off this world as the source of all our joy and sustenance. We live in the other world and travel for a small time in this one. We are actually clean (washed by the blood of the Lamb). However, this world that we travel in gets our feet dirty, and Jesus is constantly washing our feet. But our hearts and heads are in the other world of Heaven, feeding at the banquet table of God's word and revelation, on the body and blood of the lamb. We are carrying our cross of love and service to the people of this world, and in imitation of Him we are trying to love them into His world, because we have the mind of Christ. So we live as He did, prayerfully and with vision, (the eyes of our hearts opened) which motivates our lives and prayers.

Our whole life is a prayer. We are a letter written by God to the world. Everything in our lives must reflect the love of Jesus and the values of Jesus. Like Him we spend time in the closet with Father and this drives the rest of our lives. For everyone we meet our longing and prayer is that their eyes be opened, and everything we do is for that purpose. Our business is to relect the image and glory of our Lord. That is our prayer.

[godsanointed523]

What is the result of prayer and faith if God is poverty-striken?

Then we know that something wonderful is awaiting us cause we will one day really get to know who God is.

He is a God who is full of abundance and blessings if we cannot see that then we can be poverty striken

How does knowledge of a glorious inheritance help our prayers?

To be filled with the hope that as christians we will inherit the kingdom of heaven one day

[Candygoo58]

Q3. (1:18) What is the result in prayer and faith if believers think that God is poverty-stricken? How does knowledge of a "glorious inheritance" motivate our lives? Our prayers? How can you pray for others to glimpse this inheritance?

What is the result in prayer and faith if believers think that God is poverty-stricken?

If we think him poverty stricken. He would not be a God that provides for our needs. We would not see any results in our prayers they would fall flat.

How does knowledge of a "glorious inheritance" motivate our lives?

Knowing we are in him. Everything he has becomes ours. Knowing that we can believe we will receive everything we have need of from him.

Our prayers?

In our prayers we can pray believing that he has the means to answer our prayers.

How can you pray for others to glimpse this inheritance?

For God to open their eyes to see all he has already done and will do for them if they ask him.

[TennLady01]

Q3. (1:18) What is the result in prayer and faith if believers think that God is poverty-stricken?

They except the lie that we are born pour will die pour and are never expected to move ahead. The word says God owns the cattle of a thousand hills the fact is he also made and owns the hills they are on. How can anyone think that God is not more than enough for all our needs our wants and more. Some make God small and think he is not here to help us and that his love does not include our needs that are wrong the word says that he will give us the desires of our hearts. The only limit on God is what we put on him he is good and gives good to his children.

Mat 7:11 If ye then, being evil, know how to give good gifts unto your children, how much more shall your Father which is in heaven give good things to them that ask him?

How does knowledge of a "glorious inheritance" motivate our lives?

Our joy is overflowing and it is one of the greatest of hope that could and would ever be. We are richly blessed in all that we do. We have his love here on earth and his love forever more when we are with him in heaven.

Our prayers?

When you know that God loves you and is there to supply all your needs you pray with faith believing him to supply all that you will need and your prayers for others have more faith in them so that you do ask and believe it shall be given unto you. John 15:7 If ye abide in me, and my words abide in you, ye shall ask what ye will, and it shall be done unto you.

Mat 7:7 Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you:

How can you pray for others to glimpse this inheritance?

We pray that God will open the eyes of their hearts as he has done for us. He will do for others what he has done for one. He is not a respecter of persons.Act 10:34 Then Peter opened [his] mouth, and said, Of a truth I perceive that God is no respecter of persons:

What he's done for others he will do for you.

[Katzen]

They won't work very hard at their faith or praying if they don't think there's much to hope for.

The glorious inheritance helps keep us motivated, know that there's something awesome at the end.

I can pray for God to "open the eyes of their heart".

[linda bass]

If believers think God is poverty-stricken, they are less likely to pray in faith.

Knowledge of a "glorious inheritence" motivates are lives by helping us remember that we will eternally share in Christ's riches with God's people.

We can pray for others to glimpse this inheritance by praying that God will open the eyes of their understanding.

[alisicia]

Ephesians 3

"Doctrine of Our Standing Before God."

Ephesians 3:1 "For this cause I Paul, the prisoner of Jesus Christ for you Gentiles,"

Paul is reminding us that as he is writing this letter, he is a prisoner in jail, because he preaches the gospel to the Gentiles.

Ephesians 3:2 "If ye have heard of the dispensation of the grace of God which is given me to you-ward."

Ephesians 3:3 "How that by revelation He made known unto me the mystery; (as I wrote afore in few words,"

Ephesians 3:4 "Whereby, when ye read, ye may understand my knowledge in the mystery of Christ)"

The above three verses are a statement which must be given together, for they make a certain statement. Paul is referring us back to the letter of Romans, and verses found in Romans 16:25-26. Let's go to it.

Romans 16:25 "Now to him that is of power to stablish you according to my gospel, and the preaching of Jesus Christ, according to the revelation of the mystery, which was kept secret since the world began [hath been kept in silence through times eternal],"

Romans 16:26 "But now is made manifest, and by the scriptures of the prophets, according to the commandment of the everlasting God, made known to all nations for the obedience of faith:"

How do we acquire "obedience of faith"? This even sounds like a mystery. "Faith" is what you "Hope for". The "mystery" is that once you understand the truths of God's holy Word, by all the Prophets, their is no way that your faith could waver. Once you have the understanding of God's Word, you become committed in your mind and then give obedience to Jesus Christ.

This "dispensation of Grace" Paul is telling us about in Ephesians 3:2, is a period of time or "dispensation" when the Almighty Father gives something freely to one person, because someone else paid the full price for it. "Grace", in this verse comes from the Greek word "Charis", and by definition means; "free, and undeserved favor; a noun".

Grace is not mentioned in Matthew or Mark, because this dispensation started when Jesus Christ went to the cross at Calvary, and shed His blood. That is the price that was paid, and it was paid in full for all of the sins of those who believe upon His name and repent for their sins. It is a gift, and because it is a gift, we have the right to accept it, or refuse His gift.

This "Grace of God" which concerns both you and I, is not a grace pertaining to some far off heavenly kingdom, but to us living on this earth, and today reaching out and taking it. When we take it, we are automatically adopted into the body of Christ, and become part God's family. This is the "mystery of God's saving plan", for all people, in all times, that will take this gift, and place their hope in Jesus Christ.

That mystery also has to do with the three world ages, that still remains a mystery to most people today. We discussed that first earth age in the Ephesians 1, and it is also in Romans 8. This mystery is part of the "key of David", which "opens the doors, and no man can close", of Revelation 3:7. When you study His word, God will reveal it to you through the very Word itself.

The revelation, or revealing of God's mystery of the ages, will give purpose to your life. For once you understand God's plan, and see just why you exist, and how Jesus Christ's death pertains to you, your eternal soul; your "obedience of faith" will not be shaken. Your spiritual eyes will be opened, and you will see you are somebody important. Your a child of the living God.

Ephesians 3:5 "Which in other ages was not made known unto the sons of men,"

The apostles are of the New Covenant [Testament], while the Prophets are of the Old Testament. Paul is telling us that the truth of this entire earth age is given in both the Old and the New Testaments. This mystery was not a mystery in either period of time. All was foretold in the Old Testament, and revealed through Apostles also later.

Ephesians 3:6 "That the Gentiles should be fellow heirs, and of the same body, and partakers of His promise in Christ by the gospel:"

From the earliest of times, only the children of the promise [God's promise to Abraham] had access to the inner court of God. The altar of God is in His Temple, and the Gentiles were forbidden, by God to enter.

When Christ died on the cross, that partition to the inner court, separating Jew from Gentile, and giving direct access to our Heavenly Father, came down. We read in Matthew 27:50-51; "Jesus, when he had cried again with a loud voice, yielded up the ghost [spirit]. And, behold, the veil of the temple was rent in twain from the top to the bottom; and the earth did quake, and the rocks rent;"

At the moment of Jesus death, when He "gave up the ghost", the way and access was made for Jew and Gentile alike. We see in Revelation 21:24 where people of all nations, 'Ethnos" in the Greek, will present themselves in the new eternal city of God. They have all become saved, and received eternal life the same way. Through the belief, and acceptance of Jesus Christ, and His blood shed on the cross.

Ephesians 3:7 "Whereof I was made a minister, according to the gift of the grace of God given unto me by the effectual working of His power."

Paul at one time considered himself to be the worst of all sinners. The persecutor of Christians, and even killing many of them, including Stephen [in Acts 7]. Paul says it was a "gift of His [God's] grace" that could take a sinner like this, and make a minister out of Him. The power of God changed that man's heart and mind.

Paul is then saying, if Gods power can change my heart and mind; He can change yours. When you have done all you can do to change a friend, or family member that is on the wrong course; you must turn to prayer, and give them over to the power of God. God answers prayer, when it is with His will.

Ephesians 3:8 "Unto me, who am less then the least of all saints, is this grace given, that I should preach among the Gentiles the unsearchable riches of Christ;"

Paul did not think to much of himself; as far as his comparison with other Christians. Paul is saying that the grace from God that was given to him, he did not deserve.

Christ's riches are unsearchable, and those riches that Christ will give to you are untraceable. God will send blessings and protection to His own, as we put our faith and trust in Him. The riches may not be money, but in many other ways. Those gifts He gives you are in teaching, or understanding His Word; other gifts are in witnessing, comfort to the sick, and your music and other skills. God's gifts are priceless, and when we possess any of them, we are commanded to use it for the glory of God.

Ephesians 3:9 "And to make all men see what is the fellowship of the mystery, which from the beginning of the world hath been hid in God, Who created all things by Jesus Christ:"

This, "And", gives a great deal more than what you may read into this verse. It goes all the way back to the very foundation of this earth [world] age, and the mystery of God's working to bring about this earth [flesh] age. For this entire earth age we now live in, is all part of God's plan in making a way back to Himself, for those children that fell in the the first earth age. God's plan of salvation is the escape hatch to avoid God's final judgment on Satan and his followers.

In the beginning this mystery was there, and in Ephesians 2 we discussed a great deal of this mystery; How that Satan, and his literal sons, would become an active part in this earth age. Jesus even taught that this hidden mystery, was hidden from the foundations of this earth age. He taught about the physical offspring of the devil [the Kenites}. This is the teachings of Jesus Christ.

The "parable of the sower and the parable of the tares" are all tied together; and then explained. Then when you understand these two parables, the "parable of the fig tree" opens right up to you. Jesus compels us to learn it, and when you do, the whole Bible will make sense, and open a whole new understanding of end time Bible prophecy.

In Matthew 13: Christ had just finished teaching the "parable of the sower and tares", and His disciples asked Him why he spoke in parables. In verse 11; "He answered and said unto them, because it is given unto you to know the mysteries of the kingdom of heaven, but to them it is not." We are now going to find out who the mysteries are hidden from. Jesus is telling them that this is not a parable, but that He is explaining one.

Matthew 13:34 "All these things spake Jesus unto the multitude in parables; and without a parable spake he not unto them:"

Matthew 13:35 "That it might be fulfilled which was spoken by the prophet, saying, I will open my mouth in parables; I will utter things which have been kept secret from the foundation of the world."

This is the reason for all parables. Jesus is quoting from Psalm 78, here. The word "foundations" here is the same that we studied in Ephesians 1:4. It means "the overthrow by Satan"; when he rebelled against God, in the first earth age. It was then that one third of all God's created souls followed Satan in rebellion.

There are things that are kept secret since Satan was defeated, and that first earth age was destroyed. This flesh earth age is the results of what happened in that first age. When a baby is born, God does not create new souls for each new baby born, but they are the souls from that first earth age. Each soul must go through this flesh age one time and no more then once. "It is appointed unto man once to die [in the flesh], then judgment." Hebrews 9:27

This is what Genesis 6 is all about. The "sons of God" are angels, or these created beings of God, and they had refused to come to earth through the womb of a woman. This has nothing to do with reincarnation, for you are incarnate only once in the flesh body. One time through this earth age only.

Matthew 13:26 "Then Jesus sent the multitude away, and went into the house: and his disciples came unto him, saying, Declare unto us the parable of the tares of the field."

Matthew 13:37 "He answered and said unto them, He that soweth the good seed is the Son of man;"

Jesus is explaining it to His disciples. If you are His disciple, then it is for you also. "Disciple" means student, and comes from the word discipline. The seed in the verse are God's people, and the one that soweth, or made them was God's Word, Jesus Christ, who is the "Son of man".

Matthew 13:38 "The field is the world; the good seed are the children of the kingdom; but the tares are the children of the wicked one;"

The field is where tis parable took place, and that field is this world [earth age]. That is this "Cosmos", or flesh age we now live in.

Jesus then defines the difference in origins between God's children [not seed], and the literal physical offspring of Satan [who is the devil. The Greek word here for seed is "sperma", and that makes it real clear what we are talking about. Remember, Jesus is not teaching in a parable here; but He is explaining one, where a analogy was used.

Matthew 13:39 "The enemy that sowed them is the devil; the harvest is the end of the world; and the reapers are the angels." This is the root of the mystery that is being explained. The "enemy" that "sowed the seed" [sperma] of the tares is the devil. This "evil seed" is from Satan [the devil], and in this world age [flesh age]. All these tares came from the sexual union between Satan and Eve, which produced the "Kenites father "Cain".

The offspring of "Cain" are also the offspring "the devil", as Jesus just explained to us. This is a separate race of people called "Kenites". Let there be no mistake who sowed the evil seed; it was the devil. This is the mystery of Ephesians 3:9, and it was taught even from the beginning of the Scriptures. The mystery is what happened in the "Garden of Eden"; and when we know and understand this mystery, then we can dig deeper into the Word of God, and know from where the source of all evil comes. These tares [Kenites] are among us today, and will be amongst us until God's appointed time.

Ephesians 3:10 "To the intent that now unto the principalities and powers in heavenly places might be known by the church the manifold wisdom of God,"

The "principalities" are the rulers, not just of this earth, but "angelic beings" also. This means that Satan himself, and his fallen angels, as well as Satan's children [Kenites] are , or "might be known by the Church". The church is the body of Christ, and if you know and understand who is in Satan's realm, then you have the "wisdom of God".

This is Paul's intent in writing this letter to the Ephesians. So that they and you can identify all of Satan's forces, both on earth, [the Kenites], and his angels when they arrive on earth at the sounding of the fifth trumpet [Revelation 9:1-10].

The true "wisdom of God" is to know our Heavenly Father, and His love and fairness towards each of us.

Ephesians 3:11 "According to the eternal purpose which He purposed in Christ Jesus our Lord:"

The "eternal purpose" of God, is that Jesus Christ would come to earth, and become the sacrifice once and for all. All those souls who seek Christ, repent, and come under the blood of Jesus Christ are part of God's "eternal purpose", and are given eternal life.

Ephesians 3:12 "In Whom we have boldness and access with confidence by the faith of Him."

In other words, when Christ was in the tomb, and gave up the ghost to the Father; at that time the vail to the holy of Holies was rent in two, and all God's children can now come boldly to the Father, in Jesus Christ's name. We now all have direct access to the throne of God; not through some priest, but boldly, and with confidence we can talk to our Heavenly Father.

Ephesians 3:13 "Wherefore I desire that ye faint not at my tribulations for you, which is your glory."

Remember, Chapter 3 started with Paul saying, "I am in prison for you". Paul is giving them reassurance that it is for the glory of Christ he was there, and that should encourage, not discourage them in their work for the Lord. Paul is encouraging them to take heart and allow God to work in and through them.

Ephesians 3:14 "For this cause I bow my knew unto the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ,"

This great plan of God is no longer a mystery for it is revealed to us through Paul. When Paul, as we ought to, thought of God's awesome plan, is is the time to fall to our knees and thank Him for His great love and mercy.

Ephesians 3:15 "Of Whom the whole family in heaven and earth is named,"

The word "family" in the Greek is "patra". It is the family of God's children. They each have become "kin" to each other. all of them, both on earth, and in heaven are one family. This is part of God's great mystery.

Ephesians 3:16 "That He would grant you, according to the riches of His glory, to be strengthened with might by His spirit in the inner man;"

What is this inner man? It is not this flesh man, but your spiritual [soul] body. There is no such thing as a handicapped inner body, physically speaking, for it is whole, complete and beautiful. The inner soul can have all the riches and strength that you soul and spirit need to overcome any obstacle. In Matthew 18:10, it is written that each of His children have their angel in heaven watching over us, and at a time of need, that angel has the ear of the throne of God, on our behalf. When you think it is all lost, and no one cares; God cares, and as do countless other prayer warriors. Many of these prayer warriors give intercessory prayers for souls they will never meet in this earth age, yet they have a burden for your soul and well being.

Even while you may be deep in sin, our God loves you, and is waiting for you to repent, and come to Him. You are never alone for God is a person, and not a uncaring force off in space, as some like to teach. We are made in His image, and He understands each of us. When God's spirit enters your "inner man", He can change your entire life. He can give you "peace of mind," and understanding as you continue in His Word, and gain spiritual knowledge.

Paul makes it clear that the Holy Spirit is the power of God, and if we call upon God, and allow that Holy Spirit to lead us, we can bring to full use those gifts God has given each of us. It is our individual faith in God, and Jesus Christ that will bring it to completion.

Ephesians 3:17 "That Christ may dwell in your hearts by faith; that ye, being rooted and grounded in love,"

This is to say that "Christ will be at home in your heart". We are all imperfect in many ways, but as long as we have that faith that His spirit is in us, it supports our beliefs, and gives us the motivation and confidence to sustain us in our daily walk with God. He will do exactly as He has promised in His word.

"Being rooted and grounded in love"; is the most powerful force that exist on earth. Love is the soil the our life is grounded in. When that soil is good, and strong, then our whole life and faith can become deeply rooted and strong during times of testing.

Ephesians 3:18 "May be able to comprehend with all saints what is the breadth, and length, and depth, and height;"

Ephesians 3:19 "And to know the love of Christ, which passeth knowledge, that ye might be filled with all the fulness of God."

It is only by the grace of God, and the work of God's Holy Spirit that we can ever understand and comprehend the full extent of the love of God. The love of God is shown in all things, in the heavens as well as on the earth.

However, most of all, it is through His love for each of us, and the promises we have, that we can count on His love . It is the faith we have in God's eternal "love" that gives us our "love" for those around us, which gives us the desire that all people will come to know the love of God. No man can have the full understanding of the love God must have had to allow His Son to die on the cross, so He [God] could bring you and I to Himself.

The "Love of Christ" is the commitment of Christ to His Father, and to you and I, and also to every detail in God's Holy Word.

Ephesians 3:20 "Now unto Him That is able to do exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that worketh in us,"

This is in all things that we could ever dream, or hope for, as to the power of God's love. We can never come to the full understanding of that love of us, His child, except that His love for us allows it. This is a very powerful Scripture, as we try to understand God's love for us.

Ephesians 3:21 "Unto Him be glory in the church by Christ Jesus throughout all ages, world without end. Amen."

Jesus Christ is the "glory" of His Church, His "called out ones". We call them Christians, and we can see Christ's glory in all the ages, as we discussed before. This earth age is the plan of God, which draws God's children back to Him, because of what happened in that first earth age. God's holiness and glory has always been, and will never end, even in the continuance of eternity. In that love, no man can fully understand, but it becomes the power and roots that the hope for our lives is grounded in. Amen.

[LisaZ]

Q3. (1:18) What is the result in prayer and faith if believers think that God is poverty-stricken?

There would be no point in asking God for help in financial areas and it would be very difficult to believe Phil. 4:19 which states that all our needs will be met according to the riches of God's glory. If God was not able to meet His own needs, how could he possibly meet ours?

How does knowledge of a "glorious inheritance" motivate our lives? Our prayers?

It is encouraging to know that we have a glorious inheritance and I believe that inheritance is available to us now since an inheritance comes to someone while they are still living. Through the Holy Spirit and through Jesus' death and sacrifice on the cross we are able to do amazing things and to have all our needs met abundantly above all we ask or think or even dream of but the difficulty for me personally is really knowing that as truth in my heart all the time. It does motivate me to reach for more of God and to pray that I will truly know all that is available to me in God and how to reach others.

How can you pray for others to glimpse this inheritance?

Again, praying Paul's prayer for others, that they would know their glorious inheritance and that the eyes of their hearts would be opened.