Seattle, September 22, 2005. (89)
“THE LORD APPEARED.” Gen. 18:1 An interesting manner in which the LORD chose to show Himself to Abraham. He made Himself visible in human forms to Abraham. This personal visit is an indication of the high esteem that the LORD had for this man. The LORD came to Abraham after he and Ishmael had been circumcised. This is a spiritual sign of separation from the flesh and of covenant relationship with the LORD. Abraham was ninety and nine. Significant of the fruit and gifts of the Spirit. The manifestation and working of the gifts and fruit in our lives necessitates a separation from the world and the flesh for them to operate in their purity and strength. A circumcision that is accomplished by the “putting off of the flesh.” It is called the circumcision of Christ. Col. 2:11 It is that which He accomplishes in our lives as we yield to Him and are changed by the power of the Word and the workings of the Spirit. There is far too much manifestation of the flesh in the church world today. Before revival, the Lord will work mightily in loosing the church from the carnal exhibitions that are much too prevalent. According to Paul, a true Jew today is one who has been circumcised in his heart by the Spirit. Who follows Christ, the true Messiah, in the Spirit and not after the flesh. Rom. 2:29. Incidentally, Ishmael was thirteen when he was circumcised. This is the number of rebellion. Gen. 17:24-25.
AN INTERESTING ASIDE. The Lord does not do things without a purpose. He choose the time and the place of these encounters with a particular reason in mind. Mamre, the meeting place was a grove of oak trees in which Abraham was camped at the time. The name means, firmness and is befitting for the oak, noted for its strength and size. It is here that Abraham built an altar in order to worship and make sacrifice unto the Lord. Gen. 13:18 While here at Mamre Abraham purchased the cave of Machpelah which was a bit to the east. This became a family tomb where Abraham, Isaac and Jacob as well as some of their wives were buried. The meaning of the name Machpelah is, double cave. Gen. 23:8-19 That which is double or the full measure speaks to us of the last day revival. A time when the Spirit of the Lord will be poured out without measure. A double portion is not simply twice as much but is a full measure. Revival is founded upon death, death to the world, the flesh, and our own ways. Death to self and alive in Christ. When we can say, “I am crucified with Christ.” I live in Christ. Gal. 2:20.