Seattle, May 9, 2005.
60. THE GREAT HOUSE. The mixed multitude in the house of the Lord. It is obvious that not all are influenced alike by the atmosphere or the teaching of the house in which they assemble. There are vessels of gold and silver, which because of their value and beauty are often placed on display or carefully used. Then there are the cooking pots and pans of earthen ware and wood which are usually confined to the cooking quarters. When compared, some are honorable while the others are dishonorable. Even so, they are together in the great house. The choice rests squarely on the individual as to what manner of vessel they propose to be. The processes of refinement are all in place, in the Word. Unfortunately, not all will respond to the Words ability to change, mold and shape our lives. The natural course of growth is according to ones years. Spiritual growth depends on a number of things, among them a real commitment of our lives unto the Lord. A willingness to be involved in the Word. In obedience and in a love for it. A consistent reading and study of it. 2 Tim. 2:20
FOUNDATIONS. How very important is the foundation of a building. Architects today are aware of the need of greater strength in the construction of buildings due to the might of floods, hurricanes, earthquakes and whatever disasters may strike a particular area of our world. The same must be true in our lives as Christians. Facing the end of the age and all of its consequences we need a firm foundation. Paul lists for us six types of foundations upon which men are building their spiritual life and hope of heaven. Very understandable are the gold, silver and precious stone foundations for they are of great value. What is troubling is that there are those who are content with wood, hay and even stubble. It is unbelievable that people would risk their eternal future on such corruptible elements. 1 Cor. 3:12
TESTED BY FIRE. To be tested by fire simply means that the person will stand before the Lord. 1 Cor. 3:13 Our God is a consuming fire. Heb. 12:29 There is no question of the outcome as one would stand
before this all consuming fire. The wood, hay and stubble would be completely burned up. There is a reason for the baptism of the Holy Spirit being noted as a baptism of fire. That sort of a baptism would immediately destroy any weak and destructible foundation. More than ever before we need the baptism of the Holy Ghost and FIRE. The church needs to be purged and sanctified and that includes all of
us, none excluded. Mt. 3:11 The fulfillment of the feast of Tabernacles in the church will be a time of cleansing and refreshing from the presence of the Lord. It is that last day revival that is such a popular message today. It is a truth that has completely changed the former teaching of so many. We are grateful to see that the Lord will give the church another opportunity to reach that standard for His people which He has established in the WORD