Engaging With the Holy Spirit Through Service by Pastor Leo Bray

All Nations Church, Tallahassee Florida - Pastor Steve Dow - Sermons, Teaching and Inspiration - Reaching All People by All Means With the Gospel of Jesus Christ!

Introduction

The cross of Jesus stands as God's invitation to humanity, an invitation to engage with the Holy Spirit through service. In John 3:16, where His sacrifice opens the door to a multitude of blessings beyond mere material prosperity. It's an invitation to understand the purpose behind Christ's sacrifice, moving beyond mere repentance to embrace adoption into God's family.

Understanding our Inheritance:

Hebrews 2:10 reveals the depth of God's plan, showing that Christ's suffering was necessary for bringing many sons to glory. Yet, Hosea 4:6 laments the lack of knowledge among God's people, emphasizing the importance of understanding the inheritance available through Christ. For too long, many have viewed Christianity through a lens of mere escape from damnation or compliance with religious rituals. However, Philippians 3:12-14 challenges believers to press on towards a deeper understanding and embodiment of Christ's likeness. This journey requires the Holy Spirit's revelation, as highlighted in Philemon 1:6.

Emmanuel: God With Us , God through us

Jesus embodies the concept of Emmanuel, which means "God with us" (Matthew 1:23). He serves as the ultimate example of God in the flesh, surpassing all previous figures such as Moses, Elijah, and Joshua. Through Jesus, God not only abides with us but also works through us, as seen in Mark 3:14.

God in us - Abiding, dwelling, fellowshipping with God, personal transformation

God through us - Doing, representing, communal transformation

Priesthood and serving God today

When we hear the term "priest," various images and roles come to mind, each with its own significance: Fetish Priest, Catholic Priest, Chief Priest Matt 26:3, Matt 14:53, High Priest, Christ the Eternal Priest

Priests like Zechariah

Aaronic Priesthood: This refers to the priesthood lineage tracing back to Aaron, Moses' brother, as outlined in the Old Testament.

God's original intention was for all of Israel to be a nation of priests (Exodus 19:5-6). However, due to their disobedience, God selected the tribe of Levi to serve as priests instead. Despite this deviation from the original plan, God's vision was always for a people/nation devoted to Him. Levi said YES , Who will say yes ? God is always ready to walk and work with those willing to say yes to serving him.

Aaron and his sons were specifically chosen to serve as priests (Exodus 28:1), marking the establishment of the Aaronic priesthood. Individuals like Zechariah, who belonged to priestly divisions, continued this legacy (Luke 1:5).

Christ the Eternal Priest

Hebrews 6:20 “where Jesus our forerunner has entered on our behalf. He has become a high priest forever in the order of Melchizedek.

Jesus, as a priest in the order of Melchizedek, offers a superior priesthood that fulfills the shortcomings of the Levitical system. His priesthood is established with an oath, ensuring its permanence and efficacy (Hebrews 7).

The Believer's Priesthood

Believers are invited into a priesthood according to God's divine purpose (Romans 8:28-30). This priesthood involves conformity to the image of Christ (1 Corinthians 15:49), being born again through the incorruptible Word of God (1 Peter 1:23) and undergoing transformation into His likeness (2 Corinthians 3:18).

Preparation and Consecration of Priests

Just as priests in the Old Testament underwent preparation and consecration, believers are sanctified through the blood of Christ (Colossians 2:13, 1 Peter 1:18-19) and anointed with the Holy Spirit (Exodus 30:23-25).

Work of Priests

The work of priests encompasses both temple duties and community engagement. In the temple, priests offered sacrifices, led worship, and maintained cleanliness. Beyond the temple, they served as leaders, teachers, and peacemakers within their communities, reflecting God's holistic vision for His people.

Conclusion

We must actively participate in God's walk and work both within the church and in the world. This journey requires ongoing revelation, consecration, and a commitment to embodying the likeness of Christ in all areas of life. As we embrace this call, we step into the fullness of our inheritance as children of God and agents of His kingdom on earth

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