Rod Hoskins Ministries

02/25/2025

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YMxA9dGHNNc

The Bible tells us that Jesus has equipped us with everything we need to live victoriously over our enemy. John 10:10 The thief comes only in order to ste...

12/26/2024

https://youtu.be/q4gAQSc6Fww

Discovering your real enemies in life!

08/11/2024

OUR BENEFITS!

What every Christian should know!

Gen 15:1-18 After these things the word of the Lord came to Abram in a vision, saying, " Do not fear, Abram, I am a shield to you; Your reward shall be very great." 2 ABRAM SAID, "O LORD GOD, WHAT WILL YOU GIVE ME, SINCE I AM CHILDLESS, AND THE HEIR OF MY HOUSE IS ELIEZER OF DAMASCUS?" 3 And Abram said, " Since You have given no offspring to me, one born in my house is my heir." 4 Then behold, the word of the Lord came to him, saying, "This man will not be your heir; but one who will come forth from your own body, he shall be your heir."

5 And He took him outside and said, "Now look toward the heavens, and count the stars, if you are able to count them." And He said to him, " So shall your descendants be." 6 Then he believed in the Lord; and He reckoned it to him as righteousness.

7 And He said to him, "I am the Lord who brought you out of Ur of the Chaldeans, to give you this land to possess it." 8 He said, "O LORD GOD, HOW MAY I KNOW THAT I WILL POSSESS IT?" 9 So He said to him, " Bring Me a three year old heifer, and a three year old female goat, and a three year old ram, and a turtledove, and a young pigeon." 10 Then he brought all these to Him and cut them in two, and laid each half opposite the other; but he did not cut the birds.

11 The birds of prey came down upon the carcasses, and Abram drove them away. 12 Now when the sun was going down, a deep sleep fell upon Abram; and behold, terror and great darkness fell upon him. 13 God said to Abram, "Know for certain that your descendants will be strangers in a land that is not theirs, where they will be enslaved and oppressed four hundred years. 14 "But I will also judge the nation whom they will serve, and afterward they will come out with many possessions. 15 "As for you, you shall go to your fathers in peace; you will be buried at a good old age.

16 "Then in the fourth generation they will return here, for the iniquity of the Amorite (pride) is not yet complete." 17 It came about when the sun had set, that it was very dark, and behold, there appeared a smoking oven and a flaming torch which passed between these pieces. 18 On that day the Lord made a covenant with Abram, saying, " To your descendants I have given this land, From the river of Egypt as far as the great river, the river Euphrates: NASU

QUESTION: WHY WOULD ANYONE ENTER A COVENANT, IF THERE WERE NO BENEFITS? BENEFITS MEANS: RECOMPENSE, REWARD.

NOTE: Abraham did not hesitate to ask what the benefits are for him to enter Covenant with God.

WHY DO WE NEED TO KNOW OUR BENEFITS?

Isa 43:25-26 "I, even I, am the one who wipes out your transgressions for My own sake, And I will not remember your sins. 26 "PUT ME IN REMEMBRANCE, LET US ARGUE OUR CASE TOGETHER; STATE YOUR CAUSE, THAT YOU MAY BE PROVED RIGHT. NASU

IF YOU DON’T KNOW YOUR COVENANT BENEFITS HOW CAN YOU PUT GOD IN REMEMBRANCE OF THEM? NO WONDER PEOPLE PERISH FOR THE LACK OF KNOWLEDGE!

Ps 13:6 I do sing to Jehovah, For HE HATH CONFERRED BENEFITS upon me! YLT

Ps 68:19 Blessed be the Lord, WHO DAILY LOADS US WITH BENEFITS, The God of our salvation! NKJV

SALVATION- (Forgives sin, heals our diseases, redeems our life, crowns us with lovingkindness, safety, prosperity,

Ps 116:12 What shall I render to the Lord For ALL HIS BENEFITS TOWARD ME? NASU

Ps 103 Bless the Lord, O my soul; And all that is within me, bless His holy name!

2 Bless the Lord, O my soul, And FORGET NOT ALL HIS BENEFITS - gamal (gaw-mal'); a primitive root; to treat a person (well or ill), - bestow on, DEAL BOUNTIFULLY, do (good), recompense, requite, REWARD, ripen, serve, mean, yield:

3 Who forgives ALL your iniquities: (avon (aw-vone'); perversity, i.e. (moral) evil: fault, iniquity, mischeif, punishment (of iniquity), sin. (Strong's)

Who HEALS (CURES) ALL your diseases,

4 WHO REDEEMS YOUR LIFE from destruction, Who CROWNS YOU with lovingkindness and tender mercies,

REDEEMS- ga'al (gaw-al'); a primitive root, to redeem (according to the Oriental law of kinship) (Strong's): to pay a ransom.

We are all held in the captivity of sin, until JESUS paid the ransom price.

CROWNS - `atar (aw-tar'); a primitive root; TO ENCIRCLE (FOR ATTACK OR PROTECTION); 2. to crown (literally or figuratively):

WHAT DOES HE CROWN US WITH? LOVINGKINDNESS AND TENDER MERCIES!

5 Who SATISFIES YOUR MOUTH (ALSO ADORNS US) WITH GOOD THINGS, so that YOUR YOUTH IS RENEWED (repaired, rebuilt) like the eagle's.

"When the eagle, is oppressed with old age, his bill grows so much that he cannot open his mouth in order to take meat. He then smites his bill against a stone, and breaks off the slough that prevented him from eating; and then he goes to his ordinary food, and becomes young again. So, Christ takes away from us our old age of sin and death, and gives us to eat that bread which comes down from heaven: and thus, gives us a new life in himself."

HERE ARE SEVERAL DIFFERENT TRANSLATIONS OF PS 103:5.

Ps 103:5 Who satisfies your years with good things, So that your youth is renewed like the eagle. (NASU)

Ps 103:5 The One who fills your life with blessings, so that you become young again like an eagle. (GOD'S WORD TRANSLATION)

Ps 103:5 Who satisfieth thine old age with good [things]; thy youth is renewed like the eagle's. (Darby Translation)

Ps 102:5 Who satisfieth thy desire with good things: thy youth shall be renewed like the eagle's. (Douay-Rheims Translation)

Ps 103:5 He contents you with good as long as you live, so that your youth is renewed like an eagle’s. (Complete Jewish Bible)

Ps 103:5 Who satisfies your mouth [your necessity and desire at your personal age and situation] with good so that your youth, renewed, is like the eagle's [strong, overcoming, soaring]! (AMP)

BACK TO VS 6 The Lord executes righteousness And justice for all who are oppressed. 7 He made known His ways to Moses, His acts to the children of Israel.

8 The Lord is merciful and gracious, Slow to anger, and abounding in mercy.

9 He will not always strive with us, Nor will He keep His anger forever.

10 He HAS NOT dealt with us according to our sins, nor punished us according to our iniquities.

(Rom 2:4 Or do you think lightly of the riches of His kindness and tolerance and patience, not knowing that the kindness of God leads you to repentance?) NASU

11 For as the heavens are high above the earth, So great is His mercy toward those who fear Him;

12 AS FAR AS THE EAST IS FROM THE WEST, SO FAR HAS HE REMOVED OUR TRANSGRESSIONS from us.

NOTE: THE IRONY OF THIS STATEMENT. WE LIVE ON A GLOBE AND IN TRUTH THE EAST NEVER TOUCHES THE WEST. SO HOW FAR DOES GOD CAST OUR SIN?

13 As a father pities his children, So the Lord pities those who fear Him. 14 FOR HE KNOWS OUR FRAME; HE REMEMBERS THAT WE ARE DUST. 15 As for man, his days are like grass; As a flower of the field, so he flourishes. (Job 34:14-15 "If He should determine to do so, If He should gather to Himself His spirit and His breath, 15 All flesh would perish together, And man would return to dust. NASU)

16 For the wind passes over it, and it is gone, And its place remembers it no more.

17 But the mercy of the Lord is from everlasting to everlasting on those who fear Him, And His righteousness to children's children, 18 TO SUCH AS KEEP HIS COVENANT, And to those who remember His commandments to do them.

KEEP – shamar (shaw-mar'); a primitive root; properly, to hedge about (as with thorns), i.e. guard; generally, to protect, attend to. (Strong's)

19 The Lord has established His throne in heaven, And HIS KINGDOM RULES OVER ALL. 20 Bless the Lord, you His angels, Who excel in strength, who do His word, HEEDING THE VOICE OF HIS WORD.

DOES THAT MEAN IF WE SPEAK HIS WORD, THE ANGELS WILL GO FORTH TO PREFORM IT? THINK ABOUT IT!

Isa 55:11 So shall My word be that goes forth from My mouth; It shall not return to Me void, But it shall accomplish what I please, And it shall prosper in the thing for which I sent it. NKJV

21 Bless the Lord, all you His hosts, You ministers of His, who do His pleasure. 22 Bless the Lord, all His works, In all places of His dominion. Bless the Lord, O my soul! NKJV

SO, WHAT ARE YOUR BENEFITS IN THE NEW COVENANT FOR US?

WE ARE A NEW CREATION:

THROUGH CHRIST’S BLOOD WE RECEIVED FORGIVENESS OF SINS. (COL 1:14)
OLD THINGS HAVE PASTED AWAY AND ALL THINGS HAVE BECOME NEW. (2 COR 5:17)
WE ARE MADE RICH. (2 Cor 8:9)
WE ARE MADE MORE THAN A CONQUEROR, OVERCOMERS IN THIS LIFE. (ROM 8:37)
WE ARE SEATED IN HEAVENLY PLACES. (EPH 2:6)
WE ARE REDEEMED FROM THE CURSE OF THE LAW. (GAL 3:13)
WE OBTAIN ALL OF GOD’S PROMISES. (2 COR 7:1)
WE ARE RECONCILED TO GOD, NO LONGER A BOND SLAVE, BUT A SON OF GOD. (ROM 5:10)
WE ARE BLESSED WITH EVERY SPIRITUAL BLESSING. (EPH 1:3)
WE ARE COMPLETE, LACKING NOTHING. (JAS 1:4)
WE RECEIVE THE PROMISE OF THE HOLY SPIRIT. (ACTS 2:38)
WE ARE HOLY AND BLAMELESS. (COL 1:22)
WE ARE ACCEPTED INTO THE BELOVED. (ROM 15:7)
WE GAIN ALL WISDOM, PRUDENCE AND UNDERSTANDING. (EPH 1:8)
WE OBTAIN AN INHERITANCE. (HEB 9:15)
WE HAVE BEEN MADE ALIVE. (1 Cor 15:22)
WE HAVE GOOD WORKS. (Eph 2:10)
WE HAVE BEEN BROUGHT NEAR TO GOD. (HEB 7:25)
WE HAVE BEEN RECONCILED TO GOD. (2 Cor 5:18)
WE ARE GROWING INTO A HOLY TEMPLE. (EPH 2:21)
WE HAVE BOLDNESS TO ACCESS WITH CONFIDENCE TO GOD. (HEB 4:16)
WE HAVE STRENGTH IN OUR INNER MAN. (EPH 3:16)
WE HAVE THE POWER OF GOD WORKING IN US AND THROUGH US. (PHP 2:13)
WE HAVE BEEN SANCTIFIED AND SET APART FOR HIS PURPOSE. (PS 4:3)
WE ARE MADE WISE BECAUSE WE HAVE THE MIND OF CHRIST. (1 Cor 2:16)
WE KNOW THE VEIL IS TAKEN AWAY. (2 COR 3:16)
WE HAVE RECEIVED THE GRACE OF GOD. (ROM 5:17)
WE HAVE THE FULLNESS OF HIS SALVATION. (LUKE 1:69)
WE ARE MADE THE RIGHTEOUSNESS OF GOD. (2 COR 5:21)
WE RECEIVE ETERNAL LIFE. (ROM 6:23)
WE HAVE BEEN DELIVERED FROM THE KINGDOM OF DARKNESS INTO THE KINGDOM OF LIGHT. (1 PET 2:9)
WE CAN DO ALL THINGS BECAUSE HE STRENGTHENS ME. (PHP 4:13)
IN HIM ALL OUR NEEDS ARE MET. (PHP 4:19)
WE ARE JUSTIFIED. (ROM 5:1)
WE HAVE THE WHOLE ARMOR OF GOD. (EPH 6:13)
WE ARE GOD’S WORKMANSHIP. (EPH 2:10)
WE HAVE PEACE, WHICH SURPASSES ALL UNDERSTANDING. (PHP 4:7)
WE ATTAIN TO THE RESURRECTION FROM THE DEAD. (PHP 3:11)
WE RECEIVE JOY. (1 TH 1:6)
WE HAVE LIBERTY. (1 TH 1:6)
WE CAN ASK ANYTHING AND IT WILL BE DONE FOR ME. (1 JOHN 5:14)
WE HAVE REASON TO GLORY. (ROM 15:17)
WE ARE MADE COMPLETE, LACKING NOTHING! (JAM 1:4)
WE HAVE VICTORY OVER SIN BECAUSE I AM DEAD TO SIN, BUT ALIVE TO GOD. (ROM 6:11)

AND STILL THERE ARE TWO MORE BENEFITS - THE GREATEST OF ALL:

THE LOVE OF GOD HAS BEEN POURED OUT WITHIN OUR HEARTS THROUGH THE HOLY SPIRIT WHO WAS GIVEN TO US. (Rom 5:3-5) NASU

SO, WE SHOULD PRAY AND DECLARE THIS EVERY NEW DAY:

As for me and my family, we shall serve the Lord, and dwell in His COVENANT BENEFITS of salvation (safety, deliverance, healing, prosperity and preservation).

AS I am Blessed in the city, and blessed in the country.
AS I am blessed by my offspring and the produce of my ground.
AS I am blessed by the offspring of my beasts, the increase of my herd and the young of my flock.
AS I am blessed in my basket and my kneading bowl.
AS I am blessed when I come in, and blessed when I go out.
If my enemies rise up against me, they shall be defeated before me. They may come out against me one way, but will flee before me seven ways.
I receive the Lord’s blessing upon my barns, and all that I put my hand to.
I receive the Lord’s blessings in the land He has given me.
I believe all the people of the earth will see that the hand of the Lord is upon me and my family.

I DECLARE: LET THE ABUNDANCE OF THE LORD’S PROSPERITY FLOW INTO MY FAMILY THIS DAY, as the Lord will open for me His good storehouse, the heavens, to give rain to my land in its season and to bless all the work of my hand.

I believe I shall be the lender, and have no need to borrow.
The Lord makes me the head and not the tail. I am above, and I will not be underneath. (Deut 28:1-13 promises)

I make these declarations as a child of the living God of all creation; adopted into His family by the blood of His only begotten Son, JESUS CHRIST. FOR JESUS HAS MADE ME AN HEIR TO ALL OF GOD’S PROMISES AND BENEFITS, and I declare His promises and benefits in my life this new day, and I believe I receive them! Amen!

ROD HOSKINS MINISTRIES

04/18/2024

My Second Edition of "So...You want to Know God" is now available at Amazon Books and other book stores. Get to know your God, and live like never before.

03/21/2024

GOD’S FIRST COMMAND!

WHAT WAS GOD’S FIRST COMMAND TO HIS NEW CREATION IN THE GARDEN?

Gen 1:27-29 GOD CREATED MAN IN HIS OWN IMAGE, IN THE IMAGE OF GOD HE CREATED HIM; male and female He created them. 28 God blessed them; and GOD SAID TO THEM, " BE FRUITFUL AND MULTIPLY, and fill the earth, and subdue it; and rule over the fish of the sea and over the birds of the sky and over every living thing that moves on the earth." NASU

NOT ONLY WAS IT THE FIRST COMMANDMENT OF GOD, BUT THEN JESUS EXPOUNDED ON THIS COMMAND IN Matt 28:18-20;
"All authority has been given to Me in heaven and on earth. 19 " GO THEREFORE AND MAKE DISCIPLES OF ALL THE NATIONS, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit, 20 teaching them to observe all that I commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age." NASU

I mention this because many fail to understand that the Law of Sowing and Reaping plays a major part in these commands. We find this out in Gen 1:11-12,

Then God said, "Let the earth sprout vegetation, plants yielding seed, and fruit trees on the earth BEARING FRUIT AFTER THEIR KIND WITH SEED IN THEM"; and it was so. 12 The earth brought forth vegetation, plants yielding seed after their kind, and trees bearing fruit with seed in them, AFTER THEIR KIND; and God saw that it was good. NASU

We can also read what the Apostle Paul tells us in Gal 6:7-8 “Do not be deceived, God is not mocked; FOR WHATEVER A MAN SOWS, THIS HE WILL ALSO REAP.” NASU

What is amazing is that many people and even churches, do not understand the fullness of these commands and how they are part of ALL THINGS IN LIFE. Countless sermons have been given to Christians about sowing love and kindness to all. Even more sermons have been given on sowing the Seeds of Salvation. The majority of believers understand this part of sowing.

THE QUESTION IS, DOES SOWING ONLY APPLY TO THE INDIVIDUAL BELIEVER, OR SHOULD IT ALSO APPLY TO EACH CHURCH AS A WHOLE BODY.

IS THERE A PART OF SOWING THAT IS BEING OVERLOOKED BY MANY IN CHURCH LEADERSHIP? If we understand that everything in GENESIS 1 produces after its own kind, why is it that many in church leadership do not understand THAT INCLUDES THE CHURCH? Should not EVERY church body be producing more disciples? Should not every church body produce more pastors, teachers, evangelists, prophets, and apostles? This is a direct command of the Lord to, “MAKE DISCIPLES”. SO, THAT BRINGS UP THE QUESTION: WHAT IS A DISCIPLE?

Disciple - matheteuo (math-ayt-yoo'-o); to become a pupil; transitively, to disciple, i.e. enroll as scholar: to be a follower or a disciple of someone, IN THE SENSE OF ADHERING TO THE TEACHINGS OR INSTRUCTIONS OF A LEADER AND IN PROMOTING THE CAUSE OF SUCH A LEADER - 'to follow, to be a disciple of.' (Greek-English Lexicon)

Our job in the Church of Jesus Christ is to teach and make leaders; TO REPRODUCE AFTER OUR OWN KIND. To train Christians to be, "IMITATORS OF GOD, as beloved children" (Eph 5:1-2).

Growing our ministry or kingdom is not what we are commanded to do. WE ARE COMMANDED TO SOW THE SEEDS OF HIS KINGDOM AND MINISTRY.

The challenge that comes with success, is to NEVER LOSE SIGHT OF WHO’S KINGDOM WE ARE BUILDING as we produce after our own kind! I would submit to you that being “fruitful and multiplying”, reaches much farther than the lost – it also means replicating church leadership.

1 Kings 19:19-21 So he departed from there and found Elisha the son of Shaphat, while he was plowing with twelve pairs of oxen before him, and he with the twelfth. And Elijah passed over to him and THREW HIS MANTLE (anointing) ON HIM. 20 He left the oxen and ran after Elijah and said, "Please let me kiss my father and my mother, then I will follow you." And he said to him, "Go back again, for what have I done to you?" 21 So he returned from following him, and took the pair of oxen and sacrificed them and boiled their flesh with the implements of the oxen, and gave it to the people and they ate. Then he arose and followed Elijah and ministered to him. NASU

I do know this, sometimes making disciples can require as much faith as moving mountains: The same kind of faith God put on display when He planted His Son in the earth and believed He would obtain a great harvest (demonstrating the Law of Sowing and Reaping – being fruitful and multiplying). THE CHURCH SHOULD DO NO LESS.

Rod Hoskins Ministries

02/09/2024

CHURCH TAKE HEED, WATCH AND PRAY!
Where can anyone go today and not hear about the sad condition of the world’s economy and stability. Many nations are on the brink of financial collapse, and rogue nations are at the threshold of obtaining weapons of mass destruction. Yet for many, this news is minor compared to the state of their personal condition. Many are in financial disarray as inflation eats away their retirement funds that they had planned for years. Countless people have come to the point of losing heart and losing faith. They are asking is this the end of nations and the beginning of the one-world financial system and government?

Fear, doubt, and anxieties, are filling many people’s hearts. Will we soon be at the point of needing the number stamped on our foreheads to receive food (Rev 13:17)? Governments are using algorithms to track the lives and spending habits of people. The news is indeed grave for those without hope.

HOWEVER, for the child of God, hope is the anchor of our soul, and in knowing that the world system is not the source of our need. OUR GOD, THROUGH JESUS CHRIST HIS SON, SUPPLIES ALL OF OUR NEED ACCORDING TO HIS RICHES IN GLORY (Phil 4:19). He is the rock of our salvation, and THE GOOD NEWS FOR OUR FAITH.
Are we Christians to be surprised by what is occurring? No! Jesus warned us of this world’s future. The problem is, too many Christians have come to the point of not believing it will come to pass in their lifetime. THE TRUTH IS, IT WILL HAPPEN IN SOMEONE’S LIFETIME. So is now the time? The answer to the question is, we do not know. What we do know is this! THERE WILL BE SIGNS:

Luke 21:25-28 "And THERE WILL BE SIGNS in the sun, in the moon, and in the stars; and on the earth distress of nations, with perplexity, the sea and the waves roaring; 26 men's hearts failing them from fear and the expectation of those things which are coming on the earth, for the powers of the heavens will be shaken. 27 Then they will see the Son of Man coming in a cloud with power and great glory. 28 NOW WHEN THESE THINGS BEGIN TO HAPPEN, LOOK UP AND LIFT UP YOUR HEADS, BECAUSE YOUR REDEMPTION DRAWS NEAR."

The Amplified Bible words it this way:

And there will be signs in the sun and moon and stars; and upon the earth [there will be] distress (trouble and anguish) of nations in bewilderment and perplexity [without resources, left wanting, embarrassed, in doubt, not knowing which way to turn] at the roaring (the echo) of the tossing of the sea, [Isa 13:10; Joel 2:10; Zeph 1:15.] 26 Men swooning away or expiring with fear and dread and apprehension and expectation of the things that are coming on the world; for the [very] powers of the heavens will be shaken and caused to totter. 27 And then they will see the Son of Man coming in a cloud with great (transcendent and overwhelming) power and [all His kingly] glory (majesty and splendor). [Dan 7:13,14.] 28 NOW WHEN THESE THINGS BEGIN TO OCCUR, LOOK UP AND LIFT UP YOUR HEADS, BECAUSE YOUR REDEMPTION (DELIVERANCE) IS DRAWING NEAR. (Luke 21:25-28)

Now many skeptics may say that we have seen many of these things before. History tells us nations have collapsed, earthquakes and calamities have transpired around the world, and we have seen many wars and experienced rumors of wars. So what makes things so different today?

At no time in the history of the world has so many nations been so dependent on each other. If the economy of just one of several key nations were to fail; the world system as we know it, would collapse. Fortunes would be lost, and even the money in your pocket would become worthless.

If one rogue nation were to fire one nuclear missile, everything would change in a heartbeat. There are those that think this would never happen because any rogue nation knows it would face annihilation by a counter attack. How quickly we forget that there are people willing to blow themselves up and kill others, thinking they are going to paradise. There have always been the skeptics that fail to face the realities of truth and ignore the current conditions. We have witnessed the results of this thinking through two world wars.

Now please understand that I have not written this letter to depress or discourage anyone. Most Christians understand the current place where we stand in history. Nevertheless, what is the Christian to do about it? The Word of God gives us the answer. Jesus tells us in Mark 13:32-37,

"But of that day and hour no one knows, not even the angels in heaven, nor the Son, but only the Father. 33 Take heed, watch and pray; for you do not know when the time is. 34 It is like a man going to a far country, who left his house and gave authority to his servants, and to each his work, and commanded the doorkeeper to watch. 35 WATCH THEREFORE, for you do not know when the master of the house is coming — in the evening, at midnight, at the crowing of the rooster, or in the morning — 36 lest, coming suddenly, he find you sleeping. 37 AND WHAT I SAY TO YOU, I SAY TO ALL: WATCH!"

The words, TAKE HEED, comes from the Greek word, blepo (blep'-o), which means to look at (literally or figuratively), discern, behold, be aware of, perceive, or to regard (Strong's). It is not used in the sense of taking concern, but rather as not being ignorant of what you see. We need to take heed, and discern the signs of the times.
The word, WATCH, comes from the Greek word, agrupneo (ag-roop-neh'-o), and it connotes a state of sleeplessness, or keeping awake and being alert to your surroundings, and what is happening.

This passage also gives us an instruction to pray! However, this word pray, is not found in the original Greek text. We must take note that the translators have added it. However, it should be understood, that we should pray as Jesus has instructed us in other passages to do. Such as Luke 18:1-8, Then He spoke a parable to them that MEN ALWAYS OUGHT TO PRAY AND NOT LOSE HEART.

Then Jesus concludes Mark 13:37 by saying; And what I say to you, I say to all: Watch!" Now most readers may assume that Jesus was just reasserting that we should be vigilant. If this was the same Greek word, this may be the case. However, this is not the same Greek word.

The Greek word for, WATCH, translated here is, GREGOREUO (GRAY-GOR-YOO'-O), and it also means TO KEEP AWAKE, i.e. watch (literally or figuratively), BE VIGILANT, WAKE, (BE) WATCH (-FUL).
What makes this word, GREGOREUO, different and so important is that it comes from the Greek word, EGEIRO (EG-I'-RO), which changes the emphasis of the word. EGEIRO, CONNOTES LEAVING ONE’S CURRENT SITUATION IN LIFE TO OBTAIN A NEW POSITION.

Strong’s defines it this way: TO WAKEN (transitively or intransitively), i.e. ROUSE (LITERALLY, FROM SLEEP, FROM SITTING OR LYING, FROM DISEASE, FROM DEATH; OR FIGURATIVELY, CHANGE FROM OBSCURITY, INACTIVITY, RUINS, OR NON-EXISTENCE).

WE ARE NO LONGER TO BE IN SLEEP OR STUPOR; IN DISEASE, SICKNESS, POVERTY OR DEATH. WE ARE TO BE VIGILANT TO THE FACT THAT WE HAVE MOVED FROM NON-EXISTENCE TO EXISTENCE WITH GOD. WE SHOULD FEAR NOTHING THAT THIS WORLD PRESENTS, BECAUSE WE HAVE MOVED FROM OBSCURITY TO THE LIGHT OF CHRIST; AND WE HAVE CHANGED (EGEIRO) OUR POSITION AND SITUATION IN THIS WORLD. Have others done so before us? Yes!

Matt 9:4-7 But Jesus, knowing their thoughts, said, "Why do you think evil in your hearts? 5 For which is easier, to say, 'Your sins are forgiven you,' or to say, 'Arise and walk'? 6 But that you may know that the Son of Man has power on earth to forgive sins" — then He said to the paralytic, "ARISE (EGEIRO), TAKE UP YOUR BED, AND GO TO YOUR HOUSE." 7 AND HE AROSE AND DEPARTED TO HIS HOUSE.

Matt 9:23-26 When Jesus came into the ruler's house, and saw the flute players and the noisy crowd wailing, 24 He said to them, "MAKE ROOM, FOR THE GIRL IS NOT DEAD, BUT SLEEPING." And they ridiculed Him. 25 But when the crowd was put outside, He went in and took her by the hand, and THE GIRL AROSE (EGEIRO). 26 And the report of this went out into all that land.

Matt 17:5-8 While he was still speaking, behold, a bright cloud overshadowed them; and suddenly a voice came out of the cloud, saying, "This is My beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased. Hear Him!" 6 And when the disciples heard it, they fell on their faces and were greatly afraid. 7 But Jesus came and touched them and said, "ARISE (EGEIRO), AND DO NOT BE AFRAID." 8 When they had lifted up their eyes, they saw no one but Jesus only.

JESUS CHANGED EVERYONE’S LIFE THAT WAS WILLING TO EGEIRO (CHANGE THEIR SITUATION). DID IT STOP WHEN JESUS WAS CRUCIFIED? IT DID NOT!

Acts 3:6 Then Peter said, "Silver and gold I do not have, but what I do have I give you: In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, RISE (EGEIRO) UP AND WALK."

Acts 12:7 Now behold, an angel of the Lord stood by him, and a light shone in the prison; and he struck Peter on the side and RAISED (EGEIRO) HIM UP, saying, "Arise quickly!" And his chains fell off his hands.

Child of God, “your redemption (deliverance) is drawing near.” The greater question is, “when THE SON OF MAN comes, will He really find faith on the earth (Luke 18:8)?" Our prayer is that your faith shall not fail, knowing that you have all been raised ((EGEIRO, (CHANGED – MADE ALIVE)) for a purpose and a time such as this.
Remember: 1 John 5:4-5 For whatever is born of God overcomes the world. And this is the victory that has overcome the world — our faith. 5 Who is he who overcomes the world, but he who believes that Jesus is the Son of God? NKJV

Please consider sharing your testimony of how Christ has egeiro (changed) your life. There are people around the world today that need a place for which to turn, to hear that Jesus is the same today as He was yesterday. YOUR TESTIMONY MAY BE THAT SOURCE OF ENCOURAGEMENT THAT WILL HELP SOMEONE DECIDE TO HAVE JESUS EGEIRO (CHANGE) THEIR LIFE TODAY.

Rod Hoskins Ministries

02/06/2024

THE POWER PROMISE!
Throughout history, much has been taught about the war between good and evil, and light verses darkness. We have also seen many castles built for defense of kingdoms and countries over the centuries. In fact, much has been discussed about the weapons God has given the Church for our warfare with the kingdom of darkness.

When we think of God’s weapons, we undoubtedly think first about the great power of His word. After all, “He (Jesus) is the radiance of His (God’s) glory and the exact representation of His (God’s) nature, and UPHOLDS ALL THINGS BY THE WORD OF HIS POWER” (Heb 1:3).

Furthermore, “For even if there are so-called gods whether in heaven or on earth, as indeed there are many gods and many lords, 6 yet FOR US THERE IS BUT ONE GOD, THE FATHER, from whom are all things and we exist for Him; and ONE LORD, JESUS CHRIST, BY WHOM ARE ALL THINGS, AND WE EXIST THROUGH HIM” (1 Cor 8:5-6).

KNOWING THIS ABOUT OUR GOD, LEADS MANY TO THINK THAT HIS GREATEST WEAPONS ARE HIS HOLY SPIRIT POWER AND HIS WORD. THIS IS TRUE; however, HIS PEOPLE ARE HIS GREATEST WEAPONS IN THE CONFLICT FOR SOULS. That is why many great teachings come forth from Ephesians 6 about the weapons of our warfare, and how we are equipped for spiritual battle. But today, let us consider some different weapons and a different perspective. We want to examine some weapons that are true attributes God offers us.

TO START, WE MUST UNDERSTAND THAT EVERYTHING WE OBTAIN FROM GOD COMES BECAUSE WE HAVE BEEN ADOPTED INTO GOD’S FAMILY THROUGH THE NEW BLOOD COVENANT OF JESUS CHRIST AND RECEIVING THE GREAT GIFT OF THE HOLY SPIRIT.
ONE OF THE CORE PRINCIPLES OF BLOOD COVENANT IS THAT THE TWO ENTERING COVENANT - BECOME ONE.

As one, all that the two have separately, becomes the property of both. Furthermore, Blood Covenants requires the stronger to come to the aid of the weaker. Understanding this core principle of a Blood Covenant, helps us to comprehend in greater depth what the Apostle Peter teaches us in 2 Peter 1:1-11:

Simon Peter, a bond-servant and apostle of Jesus Christ, TO THOSE WHO HAVE RECEIVED A FAITH OF THE SAME KIND AS OURS, by the righteousness of our God and Savior, Jesus Christ: 2 Grace and peace be multiplied to you in the knowledge of God and of Jesus our Lord; 3 seeing that HIS DIVINE POWER has granted to us everything pertaining to life and godliness, through the true knowledge of Him who called us by His own glory and excellence. 4 For by these (His glory and excellence) He has granted to us His precious and magnificent promises (promise), so that by them (His precious and magnificent promise) you may become partakers of the divine nature, having escaped the corruption that is in the world by lust.

Peter tells us in verse three that God has “granted to us everything pertaining to life and godliness”. HOW HAS HE GRANTED EVERYTHING TO US? BY HIS DIVINE POWER!

WHERE DOES THE DIVINE POWER COME FROM? BY THE PROMISE AND GIFT OF THE HOLY SPIRIT THAT NOW DWELLS IN US.

Acts 1:6-8 So when they had come together, they were asking Him, saying, "Lord, is it at this time You are restoring the kingdom to Israel?" 7 He said to them, "It is not for you to know times or epochs which the Father has fixed by His own authority; 8 but YOU WILL RECEIVE POWER WHEN THE HOLY SPIRIT HAS COME UPON YOU; and you shall be My witnesses both in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and even to the remotest part of the earth." NASU

The first question that comes to mind is; WHAT DOES EVERYTHING INCLUDE?

It so happens that, EVERYTHING, in the Greek means the same as it does in English - all things.

This would indicate that God has already (past-tense) equipped us with everything we need for life and godliness; WITH THE HOLY SPIRIT, NOTHING IS MISSING THAT IS REQUIRED FOR US TO HAVE THE KIND OF LIFE GOD OFFERS?

Life, is translated from the Greek word, zoe (dzo-ay'), which means the absolute fullness of life; the God kind of life, victorious life; whereas, nothing is missing or broken. (Strong’s, Thayer’s and Vine’s)

Peter goes on to write, that God “has granted to us His precious and magnificent promises”.

IF WE BREAK DOWN EACH GREEK WORD INTO ENGLISH, 2 Peter 1:4 CAN READ THIS WAY.

Whereby unto us is given precious and exceeding great promise (THE HOLY SPIRIT): that by such (The Holy Spirit) you might be partakers of the divine nature, having escaped the corruption in the world through lust.

This promise is given as part of the Blood Covenant oath and gift exchange shared by those entering The New Covenant. Why is that so important to us? Blood Covenants are considered so sacred, that should the promise (oath) be broken, the Covenant breaker would be put to death.

If there is nothing else that we ever understand about God, this truth we must know: It is impossible for God to lie (Heb 6:18); thus, IT IS IMPOSSIBLE FOR GOD TO BREAK HIS COVENANT OATH (promise).

Knowing that God has granted His people this precious promise and everything pertaining to the God kind of life.

John 6:61-63 But Jesus, conscious that His disciples grumbled at this, said to them, "Does this cause you to stumble? 62 "What then if you see the Son of Man ascending to where He was before? 63 " IT IS THE SPIRIT WHO GIVES LIFE; THE FLESH PROFITS NOTHING; the words that I have spoken to you are spirit and are life. NASU

WE UNDERSTAND THAT MANY ARE THE PROMISES TO ABRAHAM, WHICH HIS PROMISES ARE OURS, BUT THEY PALE WHEN COMPARED TO THE PROMISE OF THE HOLY SPIRIT, AS JESUS PROMISES US THE FATHER WILL SEND TO US.

So, how is it then that so many Christians are living in the agony of defeat and despair?

The answer to that question may be found in the remainder of what Peter has to say in 2 Peter 1:1-11, starting in verse five.

5 Now for this very reason also, applying all diligence, in your faith supply moral excellence, and in your moral excellence, knowledge, 6 and in your knowledge, self-control, and in your self-control, perseverance, and in your perseverance, godliness, 7 and in your godliness, brotherly kindness, and in your brotherly kindness, love. 8 For if these qualities are yours and are increasing, they render you neither useless nor unfruitful in the true knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ. 9 FOR HE WHO LACKS THESE QUALITIES IS BLIND OR SHORT-SIGHTED, HAVING FORGOTTEN HIS PURIFICATION FROM HIS FORMER SINS.

10 Therefore, brethren, be all the more diligent to make certain about His calling and choosing you; for as long as you practice these things, you will never stumble; 11 for in this way the entrance into the eternal kingdom of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ will be abundantly supplied to you. NASU

AS WE READ VERSE FIVE, we take notice that the commas added are by the translator and not in the original Greek text. With this in mind, let us consider this passage in this manner.

5 Now for this very reason, applying all diligence to (in, can also be translate as - to) your faith; also supply moral excellence, and in your moral excellence, knowledge, 6 and in your knowledge, self-control, and in your self-control, perseverance, and in your perseverance, godliness, 7 and in your godliness, brotherly kindness, and in your brotherly kindness, love. 8 For if these qualities are yours and are increasing, they render you neither useless nor unfruitful in the true knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ.

The word, DILIGENCE, comes from the Greek word, SPOUDE (SPOO-DAY'), which connotes; speed, or haste, i.e. (by implication) eagerness, earnestness (Strong’s). In addition, SPOUDE means: to bring every effort to'; to do one's very best in attempting to do something - to make every effort to, to try as hard as possible. (Greek-English Lexicon)

That brings us to this point. If we are to add all these attributes (moral excellence, knowledge, self-control, perseverance, godliness, brotherly kindness, and love); then I would submit to you that we need earnest faith in GOD’S COVENANT PROMISE, THE HOLY SPIRIT, to help us accomplish and add the power we need.

To validate this point, let us consider that by faith we receive Christ into our hearts (Eph 3:17). With that reception of Christ, we also understand that:

Having been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ, 2 through whom also we have obtained our introduction by faith into this grace in which we stand; and we exult in hope of the glory of God. 3 And not only this, but we also exult in our tribulations, knowing that tribulation brings about perseverance; 4 and perseverance, proven character; and proven character, hope; 5 and hope does not disappoint, because the love of God has been poured out within our hearts THROUGH THE HOLY SPIRIT who WAS GIVEN to us. (Rom 5:1-5)

Did Peter not say that He has, “granted to us everything pertaining to life and godliness”? By faith, we should seek to attain all the attributes. That should be our goal. Why do we want to establish these attributes? I ask, are these not also weapons for our defense in this war against the evil one? LET US AGAIN CONSIDER JUST ONE - LOVE.

1 John 4:18-19 There is no fear in love; but PERFECT LOVE CASTS OUT FEAR, because fear involves punishment, and THE ONE WHO FEARS IS NOT PERFECTED (matured) IN LOVE. 19 We love, because He first loved us.

Is not fear one of the great weapons the enemy uses against us? Yet, love is our defense. If we fail in any of the attributes Peter defines, the enemy will use it against us with condemnation.
However, verse eight gives us good reason to flourish in them; “For if these qualities are yours and are increasing, they render you neither useless nor unfruitful in the true knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ”. Should that not be our ultimate goal? To walk in them, we should with haste (spoude-spoo-day'), apply our faith in our all-supplying God. In fact, Peter goes on to say:

Who is there to harm you if you prove zealous for what is good? 14 But even if you should suffer for the sake of righteousness, you are blessed. AND DO NOT FEAR THEIR INTIMIDATION, AND DO NOT BE TROUBLED, 15 but sanctify Christ as Lord in your hearts, always being ready to make a defense to everyone who asks you to give an account for the hope that is in you, yet with gentleness and reverence; 16 and keep a good conscience so that in the thing in which you are slandered, those who revile your good behavior in Christ will be put to shame. (1 Peter 3:13-17)

Yes! Our Covenant God has truly, “granted to us everything pertaining to life and godliness”- THE HOLY SPIRIT!
HOW DO WE ACHIEVE OUR GOAL? BY FAITH IN THE HOLY SPIRIT, THE POWER THAT IS FROM ON HIGH.

LET US BE DILIGENT TO LIVE AND WALK IN HIS PROVISION – THE HOLY SPIRIT: HE WILL SUPPLY EVERYTHING ELSE.

Have a Blessed week!

Rod Hoskins Ministries