March 08, 2005
16. THE CHURCH, CALLED TO BE HIS BRIDE. A call has been issued by the Spirit of the Lord, urging the church to participate wholly in all the facets of the high calling of the Lord, which is in Christ Jesus. The source of supply is none other than the great and divine power of the Lord. Whereby, He has already made available ‘all things’ which are vital and necessary for life, natural life, but more importantly spiritual life with all its capabilities and power. Equipped and called to demonstrate the godliness and holiness which is seen as the character of the Lord and of those who follow Him. Knowing the Lord Jesus is essential. Not just a casual knowledge, book knowledge or head knowledge but a deep and intimate comprehension of His heart and desires toward His church. His love for His bride is not a light frivolous thing, but reaches a depth unknown to human love. His calling is to share and share equally, as His wife, in the immeasurable glory that is His. The most vivid imagination cannot conceive of the greatness of the glory which He is anxious to share with His called out one. His calling to His bride is to participate with Him in His virtue. While virtue has come to mean those things that pertain to goodness, honesty and decency. The Greek meaning of the word is manliness or valor. How fitting, for it takes courage to stand up to one’s convictions when confronted by temptations, testing and trials. 2 Peter 1:3
PARTAKERS OF THE DIVINE NATURE. Who can fathom the magnitude of such an amazing promise. Promises that exceed greatness for they are beyond measure. They are of such a great value that their worth cannot be ascertained, for they are godly, heavenly and eternal. They lead and guide one into an association with Christ that is unconditional and limitless. A partaker is one who fellowships and is a companion, sharing together in all things. STOP, meditate on that which is promised. You are invited to be an associate, partaking fully, in the Spirit and nature of the Lord Jesus. It is the privilege of possessing His ‘divine nature’ that is being offered to the church. But you see, even an understanding that such magnanimous promises are available is not grasped by many in the church. They read the same Bible but their spirits are closed to the revelation of the Spirit . They have no vision for a completed work of the Lord which would result in a perfect church, even though the Word proclaims it. Likewise, unless one has escaped from the corruption that is in this world there is no way that they can see that which the Lord has prepared for those who love Him. 2 Peter 1:4 Jesus said not one jot nor tittle would pass away until all be fulfilled. The Lord has a definite purpose in developing a glorious church for this end of the age. It is the climax of the ages. The fulfillment of His purposes in the whole plan of the salvation of mankind. The greatest revelation in the Word of the Lord is the elevation of the redeemed and holy, to be His companions, friends and everlasting bride. Without a vision the people perish.