Seattle, October 25, 2005. (112)
THE PRESENCE OF THE SPIRIT IN WORSHIP. The exhortation of Paul is for us today as much as any generation of Christians. “Be filled with the Spirit.” Eph. 5:18 He is not suggesting a one time experience but something that is on going and consistent. A status where there is a continual flow of the Spirit in the life of the believer. The word, filled in the Greek is “pleroo.” Strong’s Word Dictionary gives a very beautiful and complete meaning. Which covers what we should expect from the Spirit. ” to make replete, i.e. (literally) to cram, to furnish ( or imbue, diffuse, influence), satisfy, finish.” That well relates the work and influence of the Spirit that may be evidenced in us. How desperately the body of Christ needs just such a mighty power and guidance in our day. Rest Assured that the true last day church will be a super church, not in numbers but in the mighty anointing of the Spirit.
GIVING THANKS TO THE FATHER. He is ever worthy of all the adoration and thanks that we may bestow upon Him. Using the suggestion of maintaining a “merry heart of song” will most definitely focus our attention on Him and cause our minds to be stayed on Him. Eph. 5:19-20 Jesus thanked the Father for the willingness of His disciples to receive the revealed Word. Luke 10:21 When we have Christ in our hearts it is not difficult to express our gratitude to the Father for so great a salvation.
ALL THAT WE RECEIVE OF THE LORD IS THROUGH CHRIST. We express our appreciation through the name that the Father bestowed upon the Lord Jesus. Our giving of thanks, our praise, our worship to the Father must all be based on that name that is above every name. The instructions of Paul were that all, whatsoever word was spoke or deed wrought, was to be done in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ. For in doing so, we express our appreciation to the Father through the person of the Lord Jesus and by use of His name, honor Him. Col. 3:17. Thus, we have seen in this portion of the writings of Paul his _expression and appreciation of the Triune God. It is the Spirit, who helps us worship and praise the Lord. The Father, who in every manner becomes a Father to the whosoever will and is most worth of our adoration. The Lord Jesus, the Savior, the only Redeemer. The one who is the very _expression of the love of the Lord. Salvation is in His name and only in His name. Acts 4:12 His mercies are extended to all. Come to Him and live.