Thursday, April 9, 2015

Reflection - "Why is Jesus the unique and only Saviour of the world?"

Source (book): "Faithful to the end", Question 4, Page 29.
By Robert M. Solomon, Bishop of the Methodist Church in Singapore from 2000 - 2012


Unique: Jesus Christ is the Son of God sent by the Father to earth - to die on the cross for our sins
PHOTO: Unique: Jesus Christ is the Son of God sent by the Father to earth - to die on the cross for our sins
"He is the atoning sacrifice for our sins, and not only for ours but also for the sins of the whole world" (1 John 2:2).
Posted on imgarcade.com - online image arcade (Jesus Risen Tomb)
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghkDkfl0DskgB2K0fSWizuspTKN2Em1ubbC_KNyoRx6WHliHYLcv1pTCMRAmCyQ3glfMsYgihBzGvKYVr6Kk6xx-z9-gXjS6MsPcOH298ODI0e_BKYTEgEGyG1r6iiuFg7tc9dwXyaNBI/s1600/Christ_empty_tomb.jpg
http://www.fggam.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/Christ_empty_tomb.jpg
http://imgarcade.com/1/jesus-risen-tomb/



Why is Jesus the unique and only Saviour of the world? How does this truth find expression in your conversations and relationships? Is there anything that may require change or clarity so that your belief in Jesus becomes evident to all? How would you explain to someone that every Christian needs the Holy Spirit to live the Christian life and to serve Christ? How do His power, love and sober wisdom help us?


Why is Jesus the unique and only Saviour of the world?

1 John 2:2, New International Version (NIV) [4]
"He is the atoning sacrifice for our sins, and not only for ours but also for the sins of the whole world." [4]

God's Rescue Plan is in the Hands of the Son of God [1]
Unique: Jesus Christ is the Son of God sent by the Father to earth - to die on the cross for our sins (1 John 2:2)

At the heart of the gospel is the Lord Jesus Christ. He was sent by the Father to earth - to die on the cross for our sins. As the apostle John declared, "He is the atoning sacrifice for our sins, and not only for ours but also for the sins of the whole world" (1 John 2:2).



Unique: Jesus Christ is the Son of God sent by the Father to earth - to die on the cross for our sins


PHOTO: Unique: Jesus Christ is the Son of God sent by the Father to earth - to die on the cross for our sins (1 John 2:2)
The atoning sacrifice for the sins of the whole world.
Picture posted by Genesis Framework, Copyright © 2015
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHWtmN2MXloMe9vO1YszGxeoNbOmfVT1NGoSvpfxcrSCo3905Jtgj2v9nelToSak2jqT_nPxkJ0WBY6vd2TibXzqXA3QHxXKI3Af4wuPF5muCImgex94FGYP-LmJnQzpLiziu9IHs_g8g/s1600/jesus-with-sins-of-the-world.jpg
http://i1.wp.com/www.christian-wallpaper.com/backgrounds/jesus-with-sins-of-the-world.jpg
http://jesuswallpaper.org/t/images-of-jesus-christ-on-good-friday



Unique: Christ Jesus has destroyed death and has bought life and immortality to light through the gospel (2 Timothy 1:9-10) - our Saviour
Paul pointed to the truth that God's grace existed before time began. God's salvation was crafted in eternity before any mind other than God's existed. This grace in eternity was then manifested in history in the Person of Jesus Christ. "This grace was given to us in Christ Jesus before the beginning of time, but it has now being revealed through the appearing of our Saviour, Christ Jesus, who has destroyed death and has bought life and immortality to light through the gospel" (2 Timothy 1:9-10). What a glorious declaration of a grand and noble truth! God's eternal grace has come to us in Jesus's incarnation in history.



Unique: Christ Jesus has destroyed death and has bought life and immortality to light through the gospel

PHOTO: Unique: Christ Jesus has destroyed death and has bought life and immortality to light through the gospel (2 Timothy 1:9-10) - our Saviour
"When Jesus rose early on the first day of the week, he appeared first to Mary Magdalene, out of whom he had driven seven demons" (Mark 16:9), New International Version.
Posted on pixgood.com - good pix galleries (The Resurrection)

https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhli62ZfCYX6BK2jrNBLEp4rgplU8bWU9UbNcDVuC3DqEKx-yYeT7W0phWMFGxNIv5BrRj1xpwrbG-okr8UW1W55tzNOGNh75krnFdhhwbetV7VvFtcGBdB0vSZ9R8wD7j2fM-RWxeo5lM/s1600/my-redeemer-lives-578369-print.jpg
http://marieleslie.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/my-redeemer-lives-578369-print.jpg
http://pixgood.com/the-resurrection-lds.html



Unique and only Saviour: Our only hope is Jesus Christ, the Son of God (Acts 4:12)
There is nothing in any of us that can earn us salvation. Moreover, there is nothing in any human being or system that can do the same. Our only hope is Jesus Christ, the Son of God. God's grace flows uniquely through Christ. We can never find any saviour other than Jesus. There is none. The apostle Peter, who had spent more than three years observing Jesus and learning from Him, was convinced that Jesus was mankind's unique and only Saviour. He courageously testified to the religious leaders of his day: "Salvation is found in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given the man by which we must be saved" (Acts 4:12).



Unique and only Saviour: Our only hope is Jesus Christ, the Son of God

PHOTO: Unique and only Saviour: Our only hope is Jesus Christ, the Son of God (Acts 4:12)
God's grace flows uniquely through Christ. We can never find any saviour other than Jesus. There is none.
Picture posted by Gary HeavyGee Barrett
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_iwAAT4ELPP2plUwPoDeU8oXD0nqvQnJnbn1nZrDinRg7p-KcgRSimCwFjBOn1xxl15pkokCxxdeBZLG7Jw7D81m5WceO4WXlHWYa8_aoS0rEIsItqx4h8eIqi2yTo-d35EWYprGsqFo/s1600/7a0a5e88-da0d-4ec4-bc69-84cf1ccf29ab-1.jpg
https://images-mix.netdna-ssl.com/w/600/h/600/q/85/upload/images/extaudio/7a0a5e88-da0d-4ec4-bc69-84cf1ccf29ab.jpg
https://www.mixcloud.com/smileproductions/celebration-of-gospel-music-0214/listeners/



Unique and only Saviour: Jesus Christ the only mediator between God and men (1 Timothy 2:5-6)
Paul reiterated the uniqueness of Jesus on the salvation of the world when he wrote to Timothy, "For there is one God and one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus, who gave himself as a ransom for all man" (1 Timothy 2:5-6). To the pagan Athenian philosophers, Paul declared that numerous idols and ideologies could not bring them to God who created the universe. There was only one way - through the man God has appointed. God had shown the uniqueness of this man by raising him from the dead (Acts 17:31). Paul was referring to Jesus.



Unique and only Saviour: Jesus Christ the only mediator between God and men

PHOTO: Unique and only Saviour: Jesus Christ the only mediator between God and men (1 Timothy 2:5-6)
Paul reiterated the uniqueness of Jesus on the salvation of the world when he wrote to Timothy, "For there is one God and one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus, who gave himself as a ransom for all man" (1 Timothy 2:5-6). Paul declared that numerous idols and ideologies could not bring them to God who created the universe.
Picture posted by Intellectual Reserve, Inc.,  2015 (The Resurrection)
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjci0MMQLNmPixLlMMcNaRbp1zN_gkNjIFG9V1rDVunwnRMGWKmCpyaLgQSvlyGlLa3ujknqhfVk5wR7Kq8De75VSOA8crudXMFkpn08z2r29hzQAYnM6QXyqyqQ7Au7LF2fooDCjidvdo/s1600/mary-the-resurrected-christ-0001233-full.jpg
https://www.lds.org/scriptures/bc/scriptures/nt/john/20/images/mary-the-resurrected-christ-0001233-full.jpg
https://www.lds.org/scriptures/nt/john/20?lang=eng#media=the-resurrection



Unique and only Saviour: Jesus is only, and is sufficient for our salvation (Colossians 2:6-9)
Paul was vehemently (forcefully) opposed to any false gospel that challenged the uniqueness of Jesus as Saviour of the world or of His sufficiency as Saviour. In the church, ther were proto-Gnostics ("proto" - orthodox, "gnosis" - knowledge) who were teaching a Gnostic Christ, and among them Christ's sacrifice on the cross in atonement for our sins was ignored or denied, and His human nature was rejected. There were also Jewish legalists who pushed the teaching that Christians needed to be circumcised and keep Jewish laws and ceremonies in order to be saved. All these teachings strayed dangerously from the true gospel of Jesus - that the ancient grace of God is now available in Jesus of Nazareth, the Son of God, and in him alone is our salvation.



Unique and only Saviour: Jesus is only, and is sufficient for our salvation

PHOTO: Unique and only Saviour: Jesus is only, and is sufficient for our salvation (Colossians 2:6-9)
Paul was vehemently (forcefully) opposed to any false gospel that challenged the uniqueness of Jesus as Saviour of the world or of His sufficiency as Saviour.
"So then, just as you received Christ Jesus as Lord, continue to live your lives in him, rooted and built up in him, strengthened in the faith as you were taught, and overflowing with thankfulness. See to it that no one takes you captive through hollow and deceptive philosophy, which depends on human tradition and the elemental spiritual forces of this world rather than on Christ. For in Christ all the fullness of the Deity lives in bodily form, " (Colossians 2:6-9)
This salvation in Christ is comprehensive and complete.

The Da Vinci Code, by Dan Brown, and the second century Gospel of Judas are two books in the news that promote the heresy of Gnosticism. Gnosticism denies Christ as Savior. There were also Jewish legalists who pushed the teaching that Christians needed to be circumcised and keep Jewish laws and ceremonies in order to be saved. All these teachings strayed dangerously from the true gospel of Jesus.
Picture posted by RenewAmerica analyst, Fred Hutchison on 3 May 2006
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2ZRMtmptWlVT-fMmuQV1QKco0x6uKYpGO6xwwkQNzOb8h3QlX1A81N8vhToYJol0vRfTaqzRT8XgfRSN6SKl7Ko6Td2PY0CbXatINuNPD4ylx9dmLvkF4uOsO8WDp0TvyjFV6gsohmwQ/s1600/060503hutchison.jpg
http://www.renewamerica.com/analyses/images/060503hutchison.jpg
http://www.renewamerica.com/analyses/060503hutchison.htm



Unique and only Saviour: As we place our trust in Him and live in Him, we receive eternal life
There are three effects in our lives arising from what Jesus accomplished for us. Firstly, He brought us God's forgiveness and salvation (2 Timothy 1:9). Through the grace of God, His atonement on the cross for our sins earned our salvation. Through Christ, God has forgiven our sins. Secondly, through His sacrifice on the cross and his resurrection, Jesus has made it possible for us to be imparted with His righteousness. In Him we are called to a holy life (2 Timoyhy 1:9), which comes with obeying him (1 Peter 1:2) and becoming like Him (Romans 8:29). Thirdly, He has "brought life and immortality to light" (2 Timothy 1:10). As we place our trust in Him and live in Him, we receive eternal life.



Unique and only Saviour: As we place our trust in Him and live in Him, we receive eternal life

PHOTO: Unique and only Saviour: As we place our trust in Him and live in Him, we receive eternal life
Through Jesus Christ we
i) Have God's forgiveness and salvation (2 Timothy 1:9)
ii) Are imparted with His righteousness (2 Timoyhy 1:9)
iii) Receive life and immortality - eternal life (2 Timothy 1:10)
Picture posted by The Earth expanded .com
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9dpcTakpXlAWLQ3Vo90ntfHrYTrjch1rd8Dywt94g5ymaQurSvL_fFyaubVH0jpCUcLBTTH2LGBdQ_uXnGKI5heN__82iB7R_j9vMvJa-7d2IgEWtD6C7VUlaGudjQXbWfqP98TWImtY/s1600/jesusprayinganimatednotext3-vi.gif
https://theearthexpanded.files.wordpress.com/2014/11/jesusprayinganimatednotext3-vi.gif
https://theearthexpanded.wordpress.com/gods-love-and-ufos/



Unique and only Saviour: Jesus accomplished for us a holistic and complete salvation
In short, Jesus accomplished for us a holistic and complete salvation - forgiveness for our sinful past, holiness for the present, and immortality for the future. His salvation is comprehensive and full, and only He could do this, for there is no other Saviour like Him. [1]

 

Unique and only Saviour: Jesus accomplished for us a holistic and complete salvation
PHOTO: Unique and only Saviour: Jesus accomplished for us a holistic and complete salvation
 His salvation is comprehensive and full, and only He could do this, for there is no other Saviour like Him.
Picture by Yongsung Kim
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifee929Q2QQHAVvNpvyCZgVaW1iVv7Lp0KdBLDXzXRg7VrRfyYb3No3dKIPvIeLcXIfsldktyve_ADIExLO4vS7e-Wr2lv7lxigw1uTXLB0FNqKa823ft2ZrcIo0QbdErUo8HYUDQj2-A/s1600/8e9231933abde8552faf3851009b2fd4.jpg
https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/originals/8e/92/31/8e9231933abde8552faf3851009b2fd4.jpg
https://www.pinterest.com/pin/387520742906925914/



How does this truth (Jesus the unique and only Saviour of the world) find expression in your conversations and relationships? Is there anything that may require change or clarity so that your belief in Jesus becomes evident to all?

 
This Gospel Grace and Power Enters Our Lives When We Place Our Faith in Jesus [2]

Express total commitment and trust in Jesus - To be baptised in Jesus' Name (Acts 2:38)
 What opens the door to the gospel in our souls is repentance and faith. When Peter stood up to preach at Pentecost, he declared, "Repent and be baptised, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins. And you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit" (Acts 2:38). To repent is to be "cut to the heart" (Acts 2:37), to recognise and renounce our sinful ways, and to seek the forgiveness of God. To be baptised is to express total commitment and trust in Jesus. It is to say "no" to false saviours and idols and to say "yes" to the only true Saviour. It is to enter into a trusting and loving relationship with Jesus, and it involves following Jesus daily and trusting Him in all of life's circumstances.


Express total commitment and trust in Jesus - To be baptised in Jesus' Name

PHOTO: Express total commitment and trust in Jesus - To be baptised in Jesus' Name (Acts 2:38)
"Repent and be baptised, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins. And you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit" (Acts 2:38). Our belief in Jesus becomes evident to all.
Enter into a trusting and loving relationship with Jesus, and it involves following Jesus daily and trusting Him in all of life's circumstances.
Picture posted by Rev Brice and the Journey on Sunday, 26 February 2012
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqKUwo4riWZm6LYE71UCevCkvLNyN9pSG_o1av9NepVoRumOt8DIMCt2hkhjJ7w6KAG-3w9mV5MA1u9Ed4TZphLpy4uaL3gBDKn1_syj7YZiT4GwpTCUAcBaxJrbpbjxOUvg_U9iBLD4w/s1600/Jesus+at+baptism.gif
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1hH3rKxBPQ83HFPXqZuP6-Rgnf0cRVvKXjqWbbqwdHy892XSTU3apvMbwMGpuGRBsqrUaQV5sRX5zV4OaaAeXZH7aJzPVDf2z0zMdvIqQcgnXZGLwSikJjCR8lL-aYtgNOHLJ-cdL-JqG/s1600/Jesus+at+baptism.gif
http://revbriceatjourney.blogspot.sg/2012_02_01_archive.html



Applying God's promise and solemnly declaring the great value of a confident assurance of eternal life
(2 Timothy 1:1)
Applying God's promise that "the word is near you; it is in your heart and mind" (Deuteronomy 30:14) to the experience of salvation, Paul writes, "If you confess with your mouth, 'Jesus is Lord,' an believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved" (Romans 10:9). In 2 Timothy 1, Paul declares that Jesus "destroyed death and has brought life and immortality to light through the gospel" (2 Timothy 1:10). The death and resurrection of Jesus is basis of Christian faith. The faith brings eternal life to us; we note Paul's opening words of this epistle about "the promise of life that is in Christ Jesus" (2 Timothy 1:1). As John Calvin observed, "We should always remember that Paul is not philosophising in the dark, but, with the reality itself before his eyes, is solemnly declaring the great value of a confident assurance of eternal life."



Applying God's promise and solemnly declaring the great value of a confident assurance of eternal life


PHOTO: Applying God's promise and solemnly declaring the great value of a confident assurance of eternal life (2 Timothy 1:1)
Jesus accomplished for us a holistic and complete salvation Forgiveness for our sinful past, Holiness for the present, and Immortality for the future.
The death and resurrection of Jesus is basis of Christian faith. The faith brings eternal life to us; we note Paul's opening words of this epistle about "the promise of life that is in Christ Jesus" (2 Timothy 1:1)
Picture posted by zulu777 on 21 January 2015 (CONFESS WITH YOUR MOUTH AND BELIEVE IN YOUR HEART ON THE LORD JESUS AND YOU WILL BE SAVED)

https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg49VSuKG4YrujNuZXt6jcp19CMKlk2l01AC3e7cYwFqMqWTTupVTk4FNGn6y3Gi4-iZAiwovFnMynEGfhhdnM3NTEvMRfCQkvAb0ryaBxqTwx6kPQrg-zNI7_Ji0jj_TihlLtJidlT1oA/s1600/wpid-wp-1418187222282.jpeg
https://zulu7772013.files.wordpress.com/2014/12/wpid-wp-1418187222282.jpeg?w=719
https://zulu7772013.wordpress.com/2015/01/21/confess-with-your-mouth-and-believe-in-your-heart-on-the-lord-jesus-and-you-will-be-saved/



Have the presence of a vital and growing relationship with Jesus Christ; Knowing Jesus Christ = Jesus has entered our life = Eternal life (John 17:3)
How do you know that this great gospel of Jesus has entered your life? You will know by whether you know Jesus. Jesus Himself said to the Father in His High Priestly prayer, "Now this is eternal life: that they may know you, the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom you have sent" (John 17:3). The evident that we have gained eternal life is the presence of a vital and growing relationship with Jesus Christ.



Have the presence of a vital and growing relationship with Jesus Christ; Knowing Jesus Christ = Jesus has entered our life = Eternal life

PHOTO: Have the presence of a vital and growing relationship with Jesus Christ; Knowing Jesus Christ = Jesus has entered our life = Eternal life (John 17:3)
The evident that we have gained eternal life is the presence of a vital and growing relationship with Jesus Christ. When we know Jesus, He has entered our life. Without this relationship, God 's response will be, "I never knew you."

"Here I am! I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears my voice and opens the door, I will come in and eat with that person, and they with me" (Revelation 3:20).



Source of Picture: Mother Mary Painting Ufo
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJoe5kTl-_ivWdEq5NJKMS4I2xleK9AXHcM1mE_f2BHclE6PnJ02DYTEjx3QkHFAN2K3SFtrNlJ8q40koUbdwA5Wtg-o_fHOSJodUpjsCuH-N7ilDUaTbQcnMkL1gJDwmfkTlCR7wluZw/s1600/ArtBook__065_065__JesusAtTheDoor____.jpg
http://i1.wp.com/mormontemples.net/wp-content/uploads/2011/03/ArtBook__065_065__JesusAtTheDoor____.jpg
http://galleryhip.com/mother-mary-painting-ufo.html



Accept grace for salvation by simple faith
The gospel of Jesus Christ has to do with our relationship with God. We are alienated from God because of our sinful condition. The good news is that in Christ, God has made His grace and mercy available to us, in that even though we are helpless, we can be forgiven and our relationship with God restored. This provision of God's grace is a reality, the origins of which are found not in time but in eternity. We rely entirely on God's grace to be saved. This salvation in Christ is comprehensive and complete. All of it is made available in Christ, the unique Saviour of mankind. When we place our trust in him, we receive the indwelling Holy Spirit, the sanctifying One who makes us holy and share the likeness of Christ. These gospel truths were held strongly and faithfully by Paul, who discovered them as he learned to walk with Jesus. Now in his old age and facing death, Paul reiterated these deep gospel truth to the younger Timothy, urging him to stand by them.



Accept grace for salvation by simple faith

PHOTO: Accept grace for salvation by simple faith
"For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith - and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God -  not by works, so that no one can boast." (Ephesians 2:8-9).
Posted by Steve Reed on 17 June 2013
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsl7tK1uzxPqyZZoPmLBjlAFyOQwVpiBbVxYTZs-05x8bFeQ571oBsN7aYxuBkcyFwqw-jFo-Bdb7SOpdUueOebI3q0I-LzNPxtFhWCImSMHemmRZfXX8ADqqzTCIq4EftawG_TWEKNFM/s1600/grace_not_works.jpg
http://oneclimbs.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/06/grace_not_works.jpg
http://oneclimbs.com/2013/06/17/saved-by-grace-judged-by-works/



The ultimate judgement to be based not on what we know, but on whom we know
"I know whom I have believed". The gospel is base on knowing Jesus in a growing relationship of faith and obedience, love and faithfulness. Paul was certain of what he knew because of the reality of whom he knew.  We are reminded that the ultimate judgement will be based not on what we know, but on whom we know. [2]



The ultimate judgement to be based not on what we know, but on whom we know

PHOTO: The ultimate judgement to be based not on what we know, but on whom we know
The gospel is base on knowing Jesus in a growing relationship of faith and obedience, love and faithfulness.
"Therefore do not be ashamed of the testimony of our Lord, nor of me His prisoner, but share with me in the sufferings for the gospel according to the power of God, who has saved us and called us with a holy calling, not according to our works, but according to His own purpose and grace which was given to us in Christ Jesus before time began, but has now been revealed by the appearing of our Savior Jesus Christ, who has abolished death and brought life and immortality to light through the gospel, to which I was appointed a preacher, an apostle, and a teacher of the Gentiles. For this reason I also suffer these things; nevertheless I am not ashamed, for I know whom I have believed and am persuaded that He is able to keep what I have committed to Him until that Day." (2 Timothy 1:8-12)
Picture painted by Caravaggio circa 1601, The Incredulity of Saint Thomas
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgS8C5IZa8YHiT6rCDx9qlcvRYmj3s0NIn2QQ3fjLj4yUd_IRbrR1t85hJ6ez9Foo6dhzKngLWsO6onWuaWrqyFbbi-Ol5pk_A30JjSI3FonS3pBuSJBy07-auEiCQStVIINTgair-jtjE/s1600/caravaggios-jesus2.jpg
https://jrbenjamin.files.wordpress.com/2014/04/caravaggios-jesus2.jpg
http://jrbenjamin.com/2014/04/18/does-the-beauty-of-the-gospel-story-attest-to-its-truth/



How would you explain to someone that every Christian needs the Holy Spirit to live the Christian life and to serve Christ? How do His power, love and sober wisdom help us?
 

God's Rescue Plan Involves the Power of the Holy Spirit in Us [3]
Sanctification: The Holy Spirit restore and transform us into Christlikeness
The gospel has to do with all three persons of the Trinity. What a glorious gospel! The purpose of God is not only to rescue us from the fatal consequences of our sins, but also to restore and transform us into Christlikeness. Paul reminds us elsewhere: "For those God foreknew he also predestined to be conformed to the likeness of His Son" (Romans 8:29) and that God has "called us to a holy life" (2 Timothy 1:9). This process of being made holy is sanctification, which is especially the ministry of the Holy Spirit. Hence both the apostles Peter and Paul call it the "sanctifying work of the Holy Spirit" (1 Peter 1:2; 2 Thessalonians 2:13).



Sanctification: The Holy Spirit restore and transform us into Christlikeness

PHOTO: Sanctification: The Holy Spirit restore and transform us into Christlikeness
This process of being made holy is sanctification, which is especially the ministry of the Holy Spirit (1 Peter 1:2; 2 Thessalonians 2:13).
Picture is posted by Genius Media Group Inc.,  2015
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihs73kWgQEcIp0TAsXDUfeKC0qKnXdcBpDYS1eJbKhO9pZ3R4Q-EwhwvlyRB8oeSgsj9znfTq2tVC4-fg3_k_SK7OqHHko_R6k84z_6E1ROUPv5ATB8v-IGB3KvAiHo5KLLhXhCG97TMQ/s1600/9e4786702d7a53f54ace2393296bd2a7.489x365x1.gif
http://images.rapgenius.com/9e4786702d7a53f54ace2393296bd2a7.489x365x1.gif
http://genius.com/1541036/Holy-bible-kjv-romans-12/Romans-12-2-and-be-not-conformed-to-this-world-but-be-ye-transformed-by-the-renewing-of-your-mind-that-ye-may-prove-what-is-that-good-and-acceptable-and-perfect-will-of-god



The gifts of the Holy Spirit that enable us to minister in the body of Christ and the needy world
This process of sanctification is primarily what the Holy Spirit does within us. Here, Paul refers to the Holy Spirit "who lives in us" (2 Timothy 1:14). One of the key actions of the Holy Spirit is to assist us in our battle with our sinful nature. Without His power, we are helpless and defeated; but with His power, we can have victory over our sinful self. Elsewhere, Paul speaks of the significant ministry of the Holy Spirit in us. In Romans 8, we read about how the Holy Spirit brings us assurance that we are children of God, have intimacy with God, and have guidance and victory over the sinful nature. In 1 Corinthians 12, we discover the gifts of the Holy Spirit that enable us to minister in the body of Christ and the needy world. In Galatians 5:16-26, we learn of the fruit of the Holy Spirit, the character of Jesus, that is brought forth in our lives as we are led and controlled by Him.



The gifts of the Holy Spirit enable us to minister in the body of Christ and the needy world

PHOTO: The gifts of the Holy Spirit enable us to minister in the body of Christ and the needy world
The seven gifts of the Holy Spirit are "Wisdom, Understanding, Knowledge, Counsel, Fortitude, Fear of the Lord, Piety." (Isaias 11:1-3).
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKc36AugHuT7ZDyeJYdJwbHdXVWtoJGnbt0UTmoA6n7RfZcq9EGeF5iO89qGeU_51wb4AFNu3CNkBC6u7hI6tKLLHimMEjz5Vl8carL6GRzJ-ieuRKUfoDULS_3E4d0KwD2hAv_DFXUZ4/s1600/Come+Holy+Spirit+Votive+HolderSA8AGS414.JPG
http://reigninggifts.com/images/prodimages/Come%20Holy%20Spirit%20Votive%20HolderSA8AGS414.JPG
http://reigninggifts.com/CandleHolders2.htm



Holy spirit gift of Wisdom

PHOTO: Holy spirit gift of Wisdom
Wisdom: Helps us to see that the world is only a temporary place for us, that Heaven is our true home. It helps us to set our hearts on the things that really count in life, such as God, virtue, and prayer
Posted by Unstoppable Spirit on Saturday 26 Feburary 2011

https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7NbltZTvt6xWXmNF221d9hyOvusogym9ZzSgBFnKbu2VXdfZSXYk_fR0Lc79OG93OQqCAOOzIjgg4Q0sfV_Ty8ZPk_70ssFRjG9G0_DqgU0-JpHT4bCyUCulg9F3f3siLqVCG5NA7M9c/s1600/gift1.jpg
http://www.communityofhopeinc.org/Catholic%20Beliefs/gift1.jpg
http://unstoppablespirit.blogspot.sg/2011/02/7-gifts-of-holy-ghost.html



Holy spirit gift of understanding
PHOTO: Holy spirit gift of understanding
Understanding : Gives us an insight in to the mysteries of faith and helps us to explain in the faith to others
Posted by Unstoppable Spirit on Saturday 26 Feburary 2011
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizpoP-MASM8ql1EealbzbIj0h5fz85AHw6OtvctuZpUEjpSXEEVFSJjR3WHW4fVRphrXd3_BYqMn5yQ3S6mKueK5YVS6QAKpn7qB1xVjJHEsjIKWTxaAM5GUw3z9Y8eVSvLo905cHUGYM/s1600/gift2.jpg

http://www.communityofhopeinc.org/Catholic%20Beliefs/gift2.jpg
http://unstoppablespirit.blogspot.sg/2011/02/7-gifts-of-holy-ghost.html



Holy spirit gift of Knowledge

PHOTO: Holy spirit gift of Knowledge
Knowledge: Helps us to see everything in life in relation to God and eternity
Posted by Unstoppable Spirit on Saturday 26 Feburary 2011
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLav1IlJCj6ZyJ7RrCktI7eD995EYBMZQ4gvMSfbNgrxpC3YUbdgacfkNWm_22u2tSEtnA3FdpMROmzCNei6SZ2j3a6lTJCwbRi9dp2Kp3Wfhj5yLv8cFjSi0uUj3dpB4wmjRL87BNKXE/s1600/gift5.jpg
http://www.communityofhopeinc.org/Catholic%20Beliefs/gift5.jpg
http://unstoppablespirit.blogspot.sg/2011/02/7-gifts-of-holy-ghost.html



Holy spirit gift of Counsel

PHOTO: Holy spirit gift of Counsel
Counsel : Helps us  make correct decisions about God's will for our lives
Posted by Unstoppable Spirit on Saturday 26 Feburary 2011

https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOkQz8QP07LBroi6V7kjlDoQ9Zvq-wyWyhGbESZWursORIgR-FzOWy8EOULTEs6qDQXOl-1RLUidsCFo7sn0qQeG_DqJomsg_WoWPu-It6g-0JUep0DcR951Nmw4g8FnYU5bxU34ilj4c/s1600/gift3.jpg
http://www.communityofhopeinc.org/Catholic%20Beliefs/gift3.jpg
http://unstoppablespirit.blogspot.sg/2011/02/7-gifts-of-holy-ghost.html



Holy spirit gift of Fortitude (courage in pain or adversity)

PHOTO: Holy spirit gift of Fortitude (courage in pain or adversity
Fortitude : Gives us the strength to be faithful to Christ even when it is difficult to do so
Posted by Unstoppable Spirit on Saturday 26 Feburary 2011

https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQS9P5uaEgIeczFQ2fOuF_4x6PqhJuajoPspXoQwKbg2DhvYRXDgDDJnWt1J8vrS4IbYA4hhjjVfV9elD4u1CPAgPyS6KUeawOPQKm3T0xMvW9bL7qVvHHRYtXnq_tb06trww_fNcQoVc/s1600/gift4.jpg
http://www.communityofhopeinc.org/Catholic%20Beliefs/gift4.jpg
http://unstoppablespirit.blogspot.sg/2011/02/7-gifts-of-holy-ghost.html



Holy spirit gift of Fear of the Lord

PHOTO: Holy spirit gift of Fear of the Lord
Fear of the Lord : Shows us the evil of sin
and helps us to live in God's grace. It is also called "wonder and awe" in God's presence because it reminds us that He is great and all powerful
Posted by Unstoppable Spirit on Saturday 26 Feburary 2011
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgp9r14t2eswzOBZ3ayPeheTJ-sKh6gQTqgfNjO1ATCH7sh6VActjGHuQgp-DcD1yagERmb3RdYdlDjOK5kTR_XiHPA86GDolvDcEKIV0cMqLTwmJgS2l2EFamUWfvq1tVpE0Yj7lNigBY/s1600/gift7.jpg
http://www.communityofhopeinc.org/Catholic%20Beliefs/gift7.jpg
http://unstoppablespirit.blogspot.sg/2011/02/7-gifts-of-holy-ghost.html



Holy spirit gift of Piety

PHOTO: Holy spirit gift of Piety
Piety : Inspires us to worship God and to love Him as our Father
Posted by Unstoppable Spirit on Saturday 26 Feburary 2011

https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeZmFvCEhp6TpjC8b2CTTHRdc7VM5h3SchRkbfxLOKpIna4BuEcewUdllBhZVQfSTZrjXmtoOEggHqUisrzo0gBAoZaxmqNNBysoxoxLb8lSXaNvF9RVczlAOF_DjDRE9ITI3XDGcr76Q/s1600/gift6.jpg
http://www.communityofhopeinc.org/Catholic%20Beliefs/gift6.jpg
http://unstoppablespirit.blogspot.sg/2011/02/7-gifts-of-holy-ghost.html



The power of the Holy Spirit gives Faithfulness and Courage
Indeed, the Holy Spirit is the "Spirit of Jesus" (Acts 16:7; Romans 8:9; Galatians 4:6; Philippians 1:19; 1 Peter 1:11), thus the result of the sanctifying work of the Holy Spirit is the replication of the character of Jesus in us. We have two contrasting examples mentioned by Paul here. On the one hand, we see Phygelus and Hermogenes who deserted Paul (2 Timothy 1:15). They did not have the faithfulness and courage that comes from the power of the Holy Spirit operating within us. On the other hand, Onesiphorus reflected the Lord's character (2 Timothy 1:16-18) in the way he tirelessly searched for Paul in Rome, faithfully took care of him, and lovingly stood with him.



The power of the Holy Spirit gives Faithfulness and Courage

PHOTO: The power of the Holy Spirit gives Faithfulness and Courage
Onesiphorus
reflected the Lord's character (2 Timothy 1:16-18) in the way he tirelessly searched for Paul in Rome, faithfully took care of him, and lovingly stood with him.
Picture posted by Read Me First on 18 July 2013
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgObBCuQU5Y9lIdk1hqFzna-JHBlhWLAThTbfZlP1uJaJPNEyAZ19bvzGh2ff7bcRPpmB-4L5oaap_V0XUuVaSDax5cpTG-IZCC46T1AVj6iNk4z9KlZKp7ZEKRAElA94NppwSmg0-fHuU/s1600/aaaa-servants-11-el_greco_apostles.jpg
https://keithlannon.files.wordpress.com/2013/07/aaaa-servants-11-el_greco_apostles.jpg
https://keithlannon.wordpress.com/2013/07/18/


The Holy Spirit overcomes our weaknesses

Timothy, on his part, had a number of weaknesses, including having a "spirit of timidity" (2 Timothy 1:7). Paul reminded him that God had given him the "spirit of power" (2 Timothy 1:7) and urged him to "fan into flame the gift of God" (2 Timothy 1:6). The Holy Spirit helps us to overcome not only our sinful nature but also our weaknesses, and through His power we are able to receive all that Christ has accomplished for us. This is an important aspect of the gospel. This power must not be misunderstood or abused in the form of sinful and aggressive tendency to exert control over people and circumstances. Hence 16th century theologian John Calvin notes that "the powerful energy of the Spirit is tempered by love and soberness".



The Holy Spirit overcomes our weaknesses

PHOTO: The Holy Spirit overcomes our weaknesses
The battle is in the mind and heart. The Holy Spirit helps us to overcome not only our sinful nature but also our weaknesses, and through His power we are able to receive all that Christ has accomplished for us. This power must not be misunderstood or abused in the form of sinful and aggressive tendency to exert control over people and circumstances.
Picture posted by Kaz on 8 August 2014
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgb_YDkYg20krsVQWUfYDap2JCVOGLPX41EqOPAQTrTUQVcHok3b9IX1hxE6jFIwGTOIce4zbUhEFCcs-aS1GhzRvKYDnpbEH2ElHA6glTjLcEIo7MFwMSEPtZa92Ii03RoTGIZ0vXmR5M/s1600/6cf17c2738b942b96d782fe8ad396ace.jpg
https://i2.wp.com/media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/736x/6c/f1/7c/6cf17c2738b942b96d782fe8ad396ace.jpg
https://kazzer88.wordpress.com/2014/08/08/the-battle-is-in-the-mind-the-outpouring-of-the-holy-spirit/



The Holy Spirit gives us divine love and self-discipline, helping the servant of Christ to withstand sufferings
This is why the Spirit also gives us divine love and self-discipline (sōphronismos in Greek, which could be translated as "soundmindedness"), without which we cannot effectively proclaim to gospel and do ministry. Methodism founder John Wesley explains how these works together: "Power and sobriety are two good extremes. Love is between, the tie and temperament of both; preventing the two bad extremes of fearfulness and rashness." These qualities are particularly important in helping the servant of Christ to withstand sufferings and not deterred by them. It is for this reason that Paul invited Timothy to "join with [him] in suffering for the gospel, by the power of God" (2 Timothy 1:8).



The Holy Spirit gives us divine love and self-discipline, helping the servant of Christ to withstand sufferings

PHOTO: The Holy Spirit gives us divine love and self-discipline, helping the servant of Christ to withstand sufferings
Love is in between power and sobriety, the two good extremes. Love prevents the two bad extremes of fearfulness and rashness.
Published by Apostle Keith Lindsey on 19 January 2013
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeVi0ZR4V7BElUhZ8ix8qVr63UnyxOeDV8HOcIFyfapP5NPsu2OVwFp7cA1tAmvmF2grJygBfSKLFOZFRnTErg1XnkD4oDB_WiLkCYcQGI6TP4u8qZ8coU3tE8Y_fvbjF8JVgCeZHkUY4/s1600/maxresdefault.jpg
http://i.ytimg.com/vi/TN9PMRnhtJI/maxresdefault.jpg
https://www.savetubevideo.com/?v=TN9PMRnhtJI



True power in ministry originates not in fallen flesh but in the Spirit of God

In line with God's declaration in the Old Testament that it is "Not by might nor by power, but by my Spirit" (Zechariah 4:6), we must remember that true power in ministry originates not in fallen flesh but in the Spirit of God. The power that produces ministry pleasing to God is not in us, but works through us. It has nothing to do with our natural abilities, but everything to do with the Spirit given to us. Early 20th century evangelist Oswald Chambers expressed it well:
"God can achieve the purpose either through the absence of human power and resources, or the abandonment of reliance on them. All through history God has chosen and used nobodies, because their unusual dependence on him made possible the unique display of his power and grace. He chose and used somebodies only when renounced dependence on their natural abilities and resources."



True power in ministry originates not in fallen flesh but in the Spirit of God

PHOTO: True power in ministry originates not in fallen flesh but in the Spirit of God
"Not by might nor by power, but by my Spirit" (Zechariah 4:6). The power that produces ministry pleasing to God is not in us, but works through us. It has nothing to do with our natural abilities, but everything to do with the Spirit given to us.
Picture posted by imgkid.com (Bible Story Pictures David)

https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4TMi6EaByX7N5N2KVt9N1zssLq1R4iJtonQOn1ASRrE67avlLzHlmWtxKuKRHkiTKpx7fjbYzVwHK3Hr8ITbdaEptpsA1rhyphenhyphenViBjMpmu5r1311f1SlBwNm8nTlOHSE201RfQYmJCU1pQ/s1600/295065_3105462230262_1075450659_32927730_1112264234_n1.jpg
https://romanyjoseph.files.wordpress.com/2012/03/295065_3105462230262_1075450659_32927730_1112264234_n1.jpg
http://imgkid.com/bible-story-pictures-david.shtml



Ministry with the Holy Spirit is characterised by the loftiness and splendour of God
Paul reminded Timothy that he had received the Spirit, who had given him not only gifts but also power, love, and self-discipline. This would have greatly encourage Timothy. He would have been reminded, as Calvin warned, that for those who sought to serve without the Holy Spirit, "(the) result is that in their ministry there appears none of the majesty of God." But because Timothy had the Holy Spirit, his ministry would be characterised by the loftiness and splendour of God. [3]
By Robert M. Solomon, Bishop of the Methodist Church in Singapore from 2000 - 2012


Ministry with the Holy Spirit is characterised by the loftiness and splendour of God

PHOTO: Ministry with the Holy Spirit is characterised by the loftiness and splendour of God
WHAT WOULD FATHER GOD WANT US TO DO?
HE SENT JESUS FOR ME AND YOU
JESUS SET AN EXAMPLE FOR US TO FOLLOW
HE DIED THAT WE MIGHT BE FREE
FREE TO LOVE OTHERS YOU AND ME
Texts posted by The Eye of Love, http://www.theeyesoflove.com/they-kill-somoen-because-they-kill-someone.php
Picture posted by Jim Dean on 17 January 2011
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgujtp7f9LGY7HK3-7J0__WfmYecrXjvPeKUxZw58Y6XUU5HRiiMt9VmcjzcDBqtdVo4WHgWri1rHgDYHyTvPNFuAvii8-1D7lgouEjmlOAtemqeVEwOBvaG8Eyio7K6kpd7bOgWC447SY/s1600/spasitelj.jpg
http://zupa-jalzabet.org/images/spasitelj.jpg
http://zupa-jalzabet.org/2kg_11.html




Reference

[1] From "Faithful to the end" A Preacher's Exposition of 2 Timothy, Copyright  2014 by Robert M. Solomon, ISBN 978-1-62707-241-0, PART ONE: UNITED WITH CHRIST, Chapter 2 "I know whom I have believed" (2 Timothy 1:1-18), Page 23-24.

[2] From "Faithful to the end" A Preacher's Exposition of 2 Timothy, Copyright  2014 by Robert M. Solomon, ISBN 978-1-62707-241-0, PART ONE: UNITED WITH CHRIST, Chapter 2 "I know whom I have believed" (2 Timothy 1:1-18), Page 27-29.

[3] From "Faithful to the end" A Preacher's Exposition of 2 Timothy, Copyright  2014 by Robert M. Solomon, ISBN 978-1-62707-241-0, PART ONE: UNITED WITH CHRIST, Chapter 2 "I know whom I have believed" (2 Timothy 1:1-18), Page 25-27.

[4] https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=1+John+2%3A2&version=NIV, 1 John 2:2, New International Version, Holy Bible, New International Version, NIV Copyright  1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.

NIV, New International Version
1 Corinthians 2:10-16 - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=1+Cor.+2%3A10-16&version=NIV

1 Corinthians 12 - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=1+Corinthians+12&version=NIV

1 John 2:2 - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=1+John+2%3A2&version=NIV

1 Peter 1:2 - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=1+Peter+1%3A2&version=NIV

1 Peter 1:11 - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=1+Peter+1%3A11&version=NIV

1 Timothy 2:5-6 - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=1+Timothy+2%3A5-6&version=NIV

2 Peter 1:20 - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=2+Pt.+1%3A20&version=NIV

2 Thessalonians 2:13 - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=2+Thessalonians+2%3A13&version=NIV

2 Timothy 1 - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=2+Timothy+1&version=NIV

2 Timothy 1:1 - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=2+Timothy+1%3A1&version=NIV

2 Timothy 1:6 - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=2+Timothy+1%3A6&version=NIV

2 Timothy 1:7 - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=2+Timothy+1%3A7&version=NIV

2 Timothy 1:8 - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=2+Timothy+1%3A8&version=NIV

2 Timothy 1:8-12 - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=2+Timothy+1%3A8-12&version=NIV

2 Timothy 1:9 - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=2+Timothy+1%3A9&version=NIV

2 Timothy 1:10 - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=2+Timothy+1%3A10&version=NIV

2 Timothy 1:9-10 - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=2+Timothy+1%3A9-10&version=NIV

2 Timothy 1:14 - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=2+Timothy+1%3A14&version=NIV

2 Timothy 1:15 - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=2+Timothy+1%3A15&version=NIV

2 Timothy 1:16-18 - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=2+Timothy+1%3A16-18&version=NIV

2 Timothy 3:16 - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=2+Tim.+3%3A16&version=NIV

Acts 2:37 - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Acts+2%3A37&version=NIV

Acts 2:38 - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Acts+2%3A38&version=NIV

Acts 4:12 - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Acts+4%3A12&version=NIV

Acts 16:7 - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Acts+16%3A7&version=NIV

Acts 17:31 - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Acts+17%3A31&version=NIV

Acts 19:2-7 - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Acts+19%3A2-7&version=NIV

Colossians 2:6-9 - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Col.+2%3A6-9&version=NIV

Deuteronomy 30:14 - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Deuteronomy+30%3A14&version=NIV

Ephesians 2:8-9 - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Ephesians+2%3A8-9&version=NIV

Galatians 4:6 - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Galatians+4%3A6&version=NIV

Galatians 5:16-26 - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Galatians+5%3A16-26&version=NIV

Isaias 11:1-3 - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Isaias+11%3A1-3&version=NIV

John 1:1-14 - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=John+1%3A1-14&version=NIV

John 1:33 - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=John+1%3A33&version=NIV

John 14:6 - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=John+14%3A6&version=NIV

John 17:3 - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=John+17%3A3&version=NIV

Mark 16:9 - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Mark+16%3A9&version=NIV

Philippians 1:19 - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Philippians+1%3A19&version=NIV

Revelation 3:20 - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Revelation+3%3A20&version=NIV

Romans 8 - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Romans+8&version=NIV

Romans 8:9 - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Romans+8%3A9&version=NIV

Romans 10:9 - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Romans+10%3A9&version=NIV

Romans 8:29 - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Romans+8%3A29&version=NIV

Zechariah 4:6 - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Zechariah+4%3A6&version=NIV