July 18, 2002
THE WASHINGS OF THE CHURCH. The foundational washing upon which all other washings rely is the blood of the Lord Jesus Christ. The importance of the precious blood of Christ can never be over emphasized. It is the price of redemption. It is the sprinkled blood of the mercy seat. The sacrifice of forgiveness. He, personally, has washed us from our sins by the sacrifice of Himself on the cross. Rev. 1:5 We know that we have been washed by His blood when the realization of His forgiveness breaks in upon us. Suddenly we are aware that our conscience is without condemnation. Oh the joy of a conscience free from blame and guilt. The awful burden of the knowledge of having done wrong, the guilt of sin, is now lifted. We are free, free at last and forever. Heb. 9:14
THE WASHING WITH PURE WATER. Our bodies washed. The significance of water baptism. This is a means whereby we may draw near unto the Lord. It is an act of faith. An obedience to the Word in fulfilling the will and the commandments of the Lord. Heb. 10:22 It is also an act of commitment to the death, burial and resurrection of the Lord Jesus. The manifestation of resurrection life cannot be displayed until there has been a death. The Lord is desirous, even eager to display His might powers in His people, but only through those who have died to sin. Water baptism is an identification with the death of Christ. Rom. 6:3 Therefore, if we are dead with Him, we have died to sin. Sin no longer reigns in our mortal bodies. It no longer dominates our lives. A dead man cannot sin. Death with Christ means victory over sin. Rom. 6:2 The old man, the carnal nature, the man of sin and iniquity, the unrighteous man is now united with Christ in His crucifixion and death. The individual who does not enter into this experience with Christ will struggle with the flesh, constantly. Absolute liberty and freedom is found here. Rom. 6:6-7
THE DISPLAY OF POWER IS IN RESURRECTION LIFE. We are privileged, yes, called to be like Him in every aspect of His death burial and resurrection life. Many want the display of His life and power without having to participate in His death. That is an impossibility. The blessings of the Lord will not be displayed through carnal vessels. To obtain His likeness we must follow Him in every aspect of His experiences as a man. His life is ours when we meet the requirements. Rom. 6:5 The blessings and abilities received in total surrender to His will are many. Having been raised with Him we are entitled to enter into His presence, even His throne presence. What more could be desired than to sit at His feet and behold Him. Eph. 2:6 The benefits of His life displayed in the believer are also made known in the quickening or display of life that is seen in them. It not only involves the spiritual man but the physical as well. The supernatural glory, power and might becomes the life of the believer who walks in Christ. Rom. 8:11