In this issue:
The Dispensation of the Spirit
A Great Campmeeting
David Clayton
This year the Jamaican campmeeting returned to the hills of St. Ann , to the Mount Glory campsite located near Moneague. This campsite is nearly three hours away from where most of us live in Mandeville and is at least an hour away from the home of anyone who attended the campmeeting. Normally, we like to have the campmeeting closer to home so that it will be easier to make arrangements to prepare the place and transport equipment and people to and from the site. This year however, every single campsite within a radius of a hundred miles was booked and the only one available was the Mount Glory site. At first we were not too happy about traveling so far from home, but in hindsight, we could see that this was ordained of God and it proved to be a blessing. The fact that it was so far from home made it necessary that all who desired to attend had to come to camp and nobody traveled back and forth every day as some have tended to do at past campmeetings. Everybody was together for the full duration of the campmeeting and this contributed to the cementing of closer ties and a greater sense of togetherness. This was one of the major factors which made this such a great campmeeting.
This campmeeting was one of the most fulfilling that I have ever attended. This was truly a special time and I think I can safely say that all who attended were blessed by a constant sense of the presence of the Lord. It was not just the messages which we had this year. In fact, when I think about it I realize that although the messages were good, it was not the sermons which made this campmeeting such an unusual one. There was something else which touched every person who attended and stamped this gathering with a mark which will not soon be erased from our memories.
First, there was the people. This was one of the largest campmeetings which we have had in recent times. Close to 130 people attended and what was unusual was the fact that most of them were not one day visitors who passed through on the Sabbath, but they were people who came to camp, and who stayed for the entire duration of the campmeeting. On the first evening, we had a large gathering (this was a first!) and by the next day we had almost a full house in our meeting hall. On the final day at the last meeting it was the same – the meeting hall was nearly full. Nobody wanted to go home and most people stayed until the last moment to get the maximum benefit.
But what was the real element which made this campmeeting so special? It was the marked presence of Christ among us. From the beginning there was such a spirit of unity and love among the brethren that it was remarkable, although those of us who understand what has been happening among us for the past few months will not be surprised. Many came with the expectation that God would manifest Himself among us in a special way and we were not disappointed.
Wayne and Lorraine Sutherland came all the way from England to share this time with us, and so did Darlston and Audrey Clayton (they came from Maryland in the USA), while brother Ayon Baxter came from Grand Cayman. Somehow it all felt like it was a foretaste of that great time, yet to come, when “soon we shall with Jesus meet, and never never part again.”
As I have observed the work of the Lord over the past 25 years I have noticed that whenever there is a marked movement of God’s spirit among His people, something always changes about the pattern of worship. Inevitably, there comes to the people a desire to sing and to testify. I suppose this is natural, for, as the proverb goes, “whatsoever moves the heart wags the tongue,” and tongues truly wagged at this campmeeting. It seems like people were constantly wanting to give testimonies – in fact, it was impossible to restrain them and from time to time, we just had to keep still and allow the Lord to speak through His people.
Then there was the singing. One of the things which I found remarkable was the fact that on several occasions people just gathered together during the breaks and sang with all their hearts until the next meeting. Some of this singing was so beautiful that I wish we had taken thought to record it. The people put their hearts into the singing and it seemed at times that they would raise the roof with the beautiful harmonies. If heartfelt singing is one of the hallmarks of heaven, then we had a foretaste of it at this campmeeting.
On the second and fourth nights of the campmeeting, we had a new feature. We had special prayers for the sick, and hands were laid on those who desired a special baptism of the holy spirit. This biblical practice was something new for several persons who attended the campmeeting, but the question on everybody’s lips was how come we had neglected this privilege for so long when the Bible is full of the injunction to pray for the sick, and when the practice of laying of hands on people was so universally practiced in the New Testament. It brought home forcefully to our minds how conformity and tradition have put our worship and our relationship with God into a mold which is unlike biblical Christianity in many ways.
God worked in answer to these prayers and there were many many tears of heartfelt joy as those prayed for were overwhelmed with the realization that God had fulfilled His word and given them a greater measure of His spirit. Nobody who was present could doubt this. The joy and wonder which we saw on the faces of those thus blessed was unmistakable. As I looked at the faces of some of them, I remembered the words of the Bible concerning Stephen:
And all that sat in the council, looking stedfastly on him, saw his face as it had been the face of an angel. (Acts 6:15)
Several of those who were physically afflicted also received an instant blessing. Daniel came to the campmeeting from all the way in the Turks and Caicos islands . On the night when we were praying for the sick he came forward and asked for prayer for his bad knee. He had injured it two years ago and since then had been unable to bend it at more than a slight angle. His wife had been advising him in recent times to have an operation done. After we prayed for Daniel, I watched as he stood to his feet in a free and easy movement. Then I saw him from the corner of my eye do a couple of deep-knee bends as an incredulous expression came over his face. There was absolutely no pain, his knee was healed! He fell on his face on the floor weeping and praising God. For a long time after he returned to his seat he kept looking up, shaking his head and lifting his hands up to God.
Others testified of other illnesses healed and even since the end of the campmeeting, there have been two cases of further healing of persons who were prayed for. One sister called to testify that the cataract growing on her eye had completely disappeared. Another, sister, Gloria, came to prayer meeting one night without her glasses and gave a powerful testimony. She had been suffering from glaucoma with attendant deterioration in vision and had requested prayer. The doctor’s solution had been to fit her with glasses, but her eyesight had continued to deteriorate. One day she noticed that her glasses seemed to be foggy and that everything looked blurred. Even when she cleaned the glasses there was no difference. Finally she resorted to looking over the top of the glasses. Then it occurred to her, “why not take off the glasses?” So she did, and to her astonishment, she found that she was able to see (in her own words) as clearly as when she was 7 years old! We truly saw the hand of God at this campmeeting and the effects of that blessed time continue to be with us.
Of course, not everyone was healed instantly. Some were not healed until some time afterwards and some are still waiting on a positive response to these prayers. If God is always the same and it is His desire to heal our diseases, then why is it that not everyone is healed, and why do some receive healing instantly, while others have to wait a while? I believe it has to do with faith. We are told that even Jesus, God’s own Son was not able to do many mighty works in Nazareth because of the unbelief of the people. Where faith is weak, we are unable to access the blessings freely given by God, in Christ. It is also reasonable to suppose that if we believe that God’s healing process will take time, then that is exactly what will happen: It will take some time before we see the miracle. Jesus often said to people who requested healing, “ according to your faith be it unto you . (Mat 9:29)”
Faith is the hand which takes of God’s blessings, but it is important to remember that these blessings are already ours, freely bestowed in Christ.
(Rom 8:32) He that spared not his own Son, but delivered him up for us all, how shall he not with him also freely give us all things?
But if we do not believe, if we have no faith in Christ and in God’s goodwill towards us, then we cannot receive the blessings. This is why it is so important that we understand how willing God is to bless and to heal us, and that we understand that in Jesus, we are entitled to ALL His blessings.
Taj-Wayne is a boy who is still very young. He is not quite ten years old yet, but he was determined that he wanted to be baptized at this campmeeting. He had travelled all the way from England with his parents, Wayne and Lorraine , especially for this purpose. At first some of us were a bit skeptical about this because of his age. But his parents explained that he knew what he was doing, that he understood the implications of baptism and that he very much wanted to give his life to the Lord in this open way. There was really no way to refuse him and after we asked him to give his testimony, we were persuaded that God had indeed prepared him for taking this great step in life. His testimony was:
“I want to be baptized, and the reason is, I already think I am baptized by the spirit, but the Bible says that we must be baptized by the water and the spirit. I want to be baptized by water so that I may feel that I am secure in doing what the Lord asks. I also want to be able to give a testimony to my friends when I go back, because I have plans to share the gospel with them.”
After hearing this, we all agreed that there was no way we could refuse to baptize Taj. However, during the campmeeting, first Timmy, then Nathan and finally Jonathan came forward to say that they wanted to be baptized as well. This again necessitated some careful thought because these were all boys in the 10-12 age group and we know how easily boys can be influenced by others. However, both Timmy and Nathan had already expressed a desire even before the campmeeting to be baptized. They had been held back by their parents but now, they again expressed the desire to be baptized and they were joined by Jonathan. In light of the evidence of the strong moving of God’s spirit at the camp, we could not refuse the request of these boys and we ended up baptizing all four of them at the end of the meetings.
The question may be asked, “why were there not older persons who requested baptism as well?” The answer is simple: Just a few weeks before the campmeeting we had had a baptism at which six people between the ages of thirteen and thirty had been baptized, so nearly all those who attended the campmeeting were already baptized Christians with the exception of the children and a few visitors.
The baptism itself was a wonderful experience. I don’t think I have ever been in a setting which was more in harmony with my concept of a biblical baptism than this one was. We did it at a beautiful little river which opened up from a mysterious blue pool where a spring came flowing out of the ground. The water was clear as crystal and the high banks of the river provided a perfect pavilion from which the people could observe the watery rebirth of these young converts. There was no need for more than one person to perform the baptism, but brother Neville would not be denied the privilege of baptizing his only-begotten Son and so he joined me in the water. When he baptized his son the tears flowed freely from Nathan’s eyes and I suspect there was a glimmer of a tear in Neville’s eyes as well.
There was a cricket match taking place in a field close by the river and many onlookers turned away from the cricket match to pay attention to this event which was so much more important. Several of them made inquiries as to who we were, what was our mission etc. and sister Opal collected the names and addresses of eight of them who requested that we send them materials.
All in all it was a fitting end to a beautiful baptism and to a campmeeting which I am sure, will never be forgotten by any of those who attended.
Young People Choose Christ
One of the most striking evidences of the work of the holy spirit among us is the growing interest of the young people in giving their lives to the Lord. Without any prompting we find they are coming forward and asking to be baptized. Last month, six young people from two of the groups in Jamaica , decided to commit themselves to the Lord. Elyce Colquhoun, Nadine Wright, Ayon (Ray) Baxter Jnr., Zico Henry, Daniela Shaw and Rico Coach were all baptized at Alligator Pond in Manchester on the 12th of March,
The Dispensation of the Spirit
Ellen G. White
The dispensation in which we are now living is to be, to those that ask, the dispensation of the Holy Spirit. Ask for His blessing. It is time we were more intense in our devotion. To us is committed the arduous, but happy, glorious work of revealing Christ to those who are in darkness. We are called to proclaim the special truths for this time. For all this the outpouring of the Spirit is essential. We should pray for [the Spirit]. The Lord expects us to ask Him. We have not been wholehearted in this work. {YRP 304.3}
It is not because of any restriction on God’s part that the riches of His grace do not flow to men. His gift is godlike. He gave with a liberality that men do not appreciate because they do not love to receive. If all were willing to receive, all would be filled with the Spirit. By resting content with small blessings, we disqualify ourselves for receiving the Spirit in . . . unlimited fullness. We are too easily satisfied with a ripple on the surface, when it is our privilege to expect the deep moving of the Spirit of God. Expecting little, we receive little. {YRP 303.1}
In giving the Holy Spirit, it was impossible for God to give more. To this gift nothing could be added. By it all needs are supplied. The Holy Spirit is the vital presence of God, and if appreciated will call forth praise and thanksgiving, and will ever be springing up unto everlasting life. The restoration of the Spirit is the covenant of grace. Yet how few appreciate this great gift, so costly, yet so free to all who will accept it? When faith takes hold of the blessing, there comes rich spiritual good. But too often the blessing is not appreciated. We need an enlarged conception in order to comprehend its value. . . .
The Lord is not glorified by the tame supplications which show that nothing is expected. He desires everyone who believes to approach the throne of grace with earnestness and assurance.–Signs of the Times, Aug. 7, 1901.
The Lord Jesus loves His people, and when they put their trust in Him, depending wholly upon Him, He strengthens them. He will live through them, giving them the inspiration of His sanctifying Spirit, imparting to the soul a vital transfusion of Himself.–Sabbath School Worker, Feb. 1, 1896.
Christ declares that the divine influence of the Spirit was to be with His followers unto the end. But by some this promise is not appreciated as it should be; its fulfillment is not realized as it might be. Learning, talents, eloquence, every natural or acquired endowment, may be possessed; but without the presence of the Spirit of God, no heart will be touched, no sinner won to Christ. When His disciples are connected with Christ, when the gifts of the Spirit are theirs, even the poorest and most ignorant of them will have a power that will tell upon hearts. God makes them the channel for the outworking of the highest influence in the universe. {YRP 307.2}
Just prior to His leaving His disciples for the heavenly courts, Jesus encouraged them with the promise of the Holy Spirit. This promise belongs as much to us as it did to them, and yet how rarely it is presented before the people, and its reception spoken of in the church.
In consequence of this silence upon this most important theme, what promise do we know less about by its practical fulfillment than this rich promise of the gift of the Holy Spirit, whereby efficiency is to be given to all our spiritual labor? The promise of the Holy Spirit is casually brought into our discourses, is incidentally touched upon, and that is all. Prophecies have been dwelt upon, doctrines have been expounded; but that which is essential to the church in order that they may grow in spiritual strength and efficiency, in order that the preaching may carry conviction with it, and souls be converted to God, has been largely left out of ministerial effort.
This subject has been set aside, as if some time in the future would be given to its consideration. Other blessings and privileges have been presented before the people until a desire has been awakened in the church for the attainment of the blessing promised of God; but the impression concerning the Holy Spirit has been that this gift is not for the church now, but that at some time in the future it would be necessary for the church to receive it.
This promised blessing, if claimed by faith, would bring all other blessings in its train, and it is to be given liberally to the people of God. Through the cunning devices of the enemy the minds of God’s people seem to be incapable of comprehending and appropriating the promises of God. . . . A harvest of joy will be reaped by those who sow the holy seeds of truth. “He that goeth forth and weepeth, bearing precious seed, shall doubtless come again with rejoicing, bringing his sheaves with him” (Ps. 126:6).–Testimonies to Ministers, pp. 174, 175.
As the disciples, filled with the power of the Spirit, went forth to proclaim the gospel, so God’s servants are to go forth today. Filled with an unselfish desire to give the message of mercy to those who are in the darkness of error and unbelief, we are to take up the Lord’s work. He gives us our part to do in cooperation with Him, and He will also move on the hearts of unbelievers to carry forward His work in the regions beyond. Already many are receiving the Holy Spirit, and no longer will the way be blocked by listless indifference.
Why has the history of the work of the disciples, as they labored with holy zeal, animated and vitalized by the Holy Spirit, been recorded, if it is not that from this record the Lord’s people today are to gain an inspiration to work earnestly for Him? What the Lord did for His people in that time, it is just as essential, and more so, that He do for His people today. All that the apostles did, every church member today is to do. And we are to work with as much more fervor, to be accompanied by the Holy Spirit in as much greater measure, as the increase of wickedness demands a more decided call to repentance.
Everyone on whom is shining the light of present truth is to be stirred with compassion for those who are in darkness. From all believers light is to be reflected in clear, distinct rays. A work similar to that which the Lord did through His delegated messengers after the day of Pentecost He is waiting to do today. At this time, when the end of all things is at hand, should not the zeal of the church exceed even that of the early church? Zeal for the glory of God moved the disciples to bear witness to the truth with mighty power. Should not this zeal fire our hearts with a longing to tell the story of redeeming love, of Christ and Him crucified? Should not the power of God be even more mightily revealed today than in the time of the apostles?–Review and Herald, Jan. 13, 1903. {YRP 316.3}
We are to seek most earnestly to be of one mind, of one purpose. The baptism of the Holy Spirit, and nothing less, can bring us to this place. Let us by self-renunciation prepare our hearts to receive the Holy Spirit that a great work may be done for us, so that we can say, not “See what I am doing,” but “Behold the goodness and love of God!” . . .
We may talk of the blessings of the Holy Spirit, but unless we prepare ourselves for His reception, of what avail are our works? Are we striving with all our power to attain to the stature of men and women in Christ? Are we seeking for His fullness, ever pressing toward the mark set before us–the perfection of His character?–Review and Herald, June 10, 1902. {YRP 318.5}
Some have treated the Spirit as an unwelcome guest, refusing to receive the rich gift, refusing to acknowledge Him, turning from Him, and condemning Him as fanaticism. When the Holy Spirit works the human agent, He does not ask us in what way He shall operate. Often He moves in unexpected ways. Christ did not come as the Jews expected. He did not come in a manner to glorify them as a nation. His forerunner came to prepare the way for Him by calling upon the people to repent of their sins and be converted, and be baptized. Christ’s message was “The kingdom of heaven is at hand: repent ye, and believe the gospel” (Mark 1:15).
The Jews refused to receive Christ, because He did not come in accordance with their expectations. The ideas of finite men were held as infallible, because hoary with age. This is the danger to which the church is now exposed–that the inventions of finite men shall mark out the precise way for the Holy Spirit to come. Though they would not care to acknowledge it, some have already done this. And because the Spirit is to come, not to praise men or to build up their erroneous theories, but to reprove the world of sin, and of righteousness, and of judgment, many turn away from Him. . . . The Holy Spirit flatters no man, neither does He work according to the devising of any man. {YRP 321.3}
The baptism of the Holy Ghost as on the day of Pentecost will lead to a revival of true religion and to the performance of many wonderful works. Heavenly intelligences will come among us, and men will speak as they are moved upon by the Holy Spirit of God. But should the Lord work upon men as He did on and after the day of Pentecost, many who now claim to believe the truth would know so very little of the operation of the Holy Spirit that they would cry, “Beware of fanaticism.” They would say of those who were filled with the Spirit, “These men are full of new wine” (Acts 2:13).
The time is not far off now when men will want a much closer relation to Christ, a much closer union with His Holy Spirit than ever they have had, or will have, unless they give up their will and their way, and submit to God’s will and God’s way. The great sin of those who profess to be Christians is that they do not open the heart to receive the Holy Spirit. When souls long after Christ, and seek to become one with Him, then those who are content with the form of godliness exclaim, “Be careful, do not go to extremes.” When the angels of heaven come among us, and work through human agents, there will be solid, substantial conversions, after the order of the conversions after the day of Pentecost.
Now brethren, be careful and do not go into or try to create human excitement. But while we should be careful not to go into human excitement, we should not be among those who will raise inquiries and cherish doubts in reference to the work of the Spirit of God; for there will be those who will question and criticize when the Spirit of God takes possession of men and women, because their own hearts are not moved, but are cold and unimpressible.–Selected Messages, book 2, p. 57. {YRP 322.3}
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The presence of Christ, the personal presence of Christ – “Christ in you the hope of glory” – that is the gospel, isn’t it? Now, see here – and there is not any need of there being a particle of misunderstanding about this question of faith and works, or a particle of hesitation about it – see here: Christ was in the world once, wasn’t He? He did not do anything of Himself. “Of mine own self I can do nothing.” The Father dwelt in Him. He did the works. “The Father that dwelleth in me He doeth the works.” John 14:10. “As my father hath sent me, even so send I you.” – A.T. Jones, 1893 GCB
Salt’s Savour
Lenworth Frankson
Ye are the salt of the earth: but if the salt have lost his savour, wherewith shall it be salted? It is thenceforth good for nothing, but to be cast out, and to be trodden under foot of men. (Matthew 5:13)
In my early Christian life I paid little attention to this verse, understanding it only at a superficial level. As I matured spiritually, a deeper meaning, appreciation and application became my experience. I realized that Christ, our Master Teacher, always used objects that best demonstrate the lessons he intended to teach. In this passage He refers to his disciples as “the salt of the earth” and makes mention of the fact that salt, his disciples, could lose their “savor.” The question is; what is the savor of salt and how is it lost? This savor of salt must be very important because Jesus clearly states that if it is lost or lacking, we become worthless having little or no value, only fit to be thrown out. In other words because this critical ingredient in our Christian experience is lacking we have little or no influence on the world and we become worthless.
I have learnt since then that salt is also valuable as a preservative agent and with the ability to penetrate and infuse, it is considered to be one of the best. It is for this reason that God calls his children “salt.” He wants us to understand that his purpose in making us the subjects of his grace is that we should become agents in saving others. One of the reasons for God choosing a people, (those led by the Spirit of God) before the entire world is that through them the world might receive the grace that brings salvation.
Titus 2:11,12 tells us:
“For the grace of God that bringeth salvation hath appeared to all men, Teaching us that, denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, we should live soberly, righteously, and godly, in this present world” (Titus 2:11,12)
In another passage of scripture the apostle Peter writes:
“But ye are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, an holy nation, a peculiar people; that ye should show forth the praises of him who hath called you out of darkness into his marvelous light.” (1 Peter 2:9)
Christ wants us to be a medium to impart the peculiar privileges he desires to bestow upon mankind. The world needs evidences of sincere Christians. Our world is full of sickness suffering and iniquity. The gospel of love and truth is presented almost everywhere yet the world perishes because the example of those who should be a savor of life to them is a savor of death. We are the Saviour’s salt and when we are purified through the truth as it is in Christ we will possess saving qualities that preserve the world from total moral corruption.
In commenting on Christians as the salt of the earth, Ellen White wrote:
Salt must be mingled with the substance to which it is added; it must penetrate and infuse in order to preserve. So it is through personal contact and association that men are reached by the saving power of the gospel. They are not saved in masses, but as individuals. Personal influence is a power. We must come close to those whom we desire to benefit . {MB 36.1}
The savor of the salt represents the vital power of the Christian— the love of Jesus in the heart, the righteousness of Christ pervading the life. The love of Christ is diffusive and aggressive. If it is dwelling in us, it will flow out to others. {MB 36.2}
She makes it quite clear that we must penetrate and infuse in order to preserve. There must be personal contact and association with others so that the seasoning effect can take place. The part of the above quote that comes across most strongly to me is the idea that the savor or distinctive quality and property of salt represents the vital power of the Christian, which is the love of Jesus in the heart, the righteousness of Christ in our lives. She goes on to say,
“If there is no actual service, no genuine love , no reality of experience , there is no power to help, no connection with heaven , no savor of Christ in the life. Unless the Holy Spirit can use us as agents through whom to communicate to the world the truth as it is in Jesus, we are as salt that has lost its savor and is entirely worthless.” {MB 37.1}
The simple and plain truth is that if we lack the real experience of Christ’s love in us then even if we have the gifts of tongues, knowledge, faith and prophecy our Christianity is meaningless and has little or no real value and effect on anyone. Paul describes this as “ Having a form of godliness, but denying the power thereof” (2 Timothy 3:5). He also makes the comment in 2 Corinthians 5:14 that “the love of Christ constraineth us” What Paul is here saying is that the genuine experience of God’s love in our lives, that vital power in every Christian, holds together, compels and preoccupies every aspect of our entire lives in such a way that the righteousness of Jesus is felt and seen in our everyday personal experiences in everything.
Ellen Whites explains it like this:
When love fills the heart, it will flow out to others, not because of favors received from them, but because love is the principle of action. Love modifies the character, governs the impulses, subdues enmity, and ennobles the affections. This love is as broad as the universe, and is in harmony with that of the angel workers. Cherished in the heart, it sweetens the entire life and sheds its blessing upon all around. It is this, and this only , that can make us the salt of the earth . {MB 38.1}
I f the savor of salt, the genuine experience of Christ’s love in our lives, the righteousness of Christ, is lacking, then we are Christians in name only. The fact is that it really does not matter how articulate and well educated we are in Bible doctrines or how fluent and knowledgeable we are in the Scripture. The sad reality is that Christianity for most has become mostly comprised of debates and discussions in bible doctrines in a social sphere where members belong to a particular organization lacking the evidence of the power and presence of God in their lives and worship.
What matters is what Christ said to his disciples in John 13. “ By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to another.” (John 13:35). John adds to this by saying “ If we love one another, God dwelleth in us , and his love is perfected in us.” (1 John 4:12). “Beloved, let us love one another….and everyone that loveth is born of God and knoweth God.” (1 John 4:7)
Can we honestly say that are we experiencing this? The bigger and more important question is; do we really believe what God’s Word says? Can we grasp what the verse is saying? Look at what the next verse says: “ Hereby know we that we dwell in him, and he in us, because he hath given us of his Spirit” (v.13). That is to say that we can know for a surety that he actually lives in us, because he has given us his Spirit. Where the spirit of Christ dwells love must be present. The reality is that it is something already done. It is written in the past tense. In other words, it has already been given. “ It’s a done deal ” Again I ask do we believe this to be true? If we doubt in believing this to be a reality then how can we truly experience what we don’t believe? The things we believe are seen by the works we do. I pray that we will accept and receive His Spirit because it has already been given.
Paul in his letter to the Ephesians commenting on the unsearchable riches and the fellowship of the mystery of Christ, in chapter three, prays that Christ would dwell in their ( our ) hearts by faith and that we become rooted and grounded in love , knowing the love of Christ which surpasses knowledge in a way that we “might be filled with all the fullness of God ”. I believe the point that Paul is making here is that knowledge alone is insufficient. To be acquainted or familiar with the truth is not enough. By faith we must come to the place where, like Paul, we become filled with all the fullness of God. If Paul experienced this and he prayed that the saints in Ephesus would have that experience then we can too. If we want this, the scripture says we can have it. Our Christianity must surpass the status quo. Paul is inviting us to experience something by faith that far surpasses and supersedes mere knowledge, to the point where, when it is experienced we will be filled with all the fullness of God! Can we grasp this idea? Do we really want this? If only we would believe it. Look at what he says in verse twenty of the same chapter: “ Now unto him that is able to do exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that worketh in us” Not only is God able and willing but he has already given us his spirit. We must believe and act upon it. With His Spirit comes the love and life of Jesus, the righteousness of Christ with the effectual working of his power. No longer should we be the salt without savor but rather the salt that diffuses, penetrates and flavors lives with the love of Christ. This is the salt that brings life to whatever it touches. This is the salt that we ought to be. “ For this is the message that ye heard from the beginning, that we should love one another” (1 John 3:11). Christ said to his disciples before leaving. “ love one another, as I have loved you” (John 15:12).
Hidden Miracles of Salt
Recently I purchased an interesting and informative book written by the late Dr F. Batmanghelidj, entitled “ Your Body’s Many Cries for Water” . In this book Dr Batmanghelidj explains that many times when we think we are sick, we are not, but instead are thirsty. His many years of scientific and clinical research in this area led him to firmly believe that we should not treat Unintentional Chronic Dehydration with medication but rather with water and salt. Here are some of the interesting points that he shares in his book pertaining to the miracles of salt in relation to our bodies’ health.
Salt is a vital substance for the survival of all living creatures, particularly humans.
Salt has been used as a medication by many throughout the ages and in some cultures it is worth its weight in gold and in fact is exchanged weight for weight in gold.
Salt is a strong “anti-stress element for the body.
Salt is vital for extracting excess acidity from inside the cells, particularly the brain cells.
Salt is vital for maintaining muscle tone and strength. Lack of bladder control in those who suffer from involuntary leakage of urine could be a consequence of low salt intake.
Salt is effective in stabilizing irregular heartbeats and, contrary to the belief that it causes high blood pressure, it is actually essential for the regulation of blood pressure—in conjunction with water. Naturally, the proportions are critical.
Salt is vital for sleep regulation. It is a natural hypnotic. If you drink a full glass of water and then put a few grains of salt (sea salt) on your tongue and let it stay there, you will fall into a natural deep sleep.
Salt is vital for the absorption of food particles through the intestinal tract.
Salt on the tongue will stop persistent dry coughs.
Salt is vital for the prevention of gout and gouty arthritis.
Salt is essential for the prevention of muscle cramps.
Salt is absolutely vital to making the structure of bones firm.
Osteoporosis is the result of salt and water shortage in the body.
Salt is vital for preventing varicose veins and spider veins on the legs and thighs.
Sea salt contains about 80 mineral elements that the body needs. Some of these elements are needed in trace amounts. Unrefined sea salt is a better choice of salt than other types of salt on the market.
A salt free diet is utterly stupid. Salt is a most essential ingredient of the body. In order of importance, oxygen, water, salt, and potassium rank as the primary elements for the survival of the human body.
As a rough rule of thumb, you need about 3 grams of salt (half a teaspoon) for every ten glasses of water, or a quarter teaspoon per quart of water. You should take salt throughout the day. If you exercise and sweat, you need more salt.
DO NOT OVERDO SALT. You must observe the ratio of salt and water needs of the body. You must always make sure you drink enough water to wash the excess salt out of your body. If your weight suddenly goes up in one day, you have taken too much salt. Hold back on the salt for a day and drink plenty water to increase you urine output.
Low salt intake contributes to a buildup of acidity in some cells. High acidity in the cells can damage their DNA structure and be the initiating mechanism for cancer formation in some cells.
Open Face is published bi-monthly and is sent free to all who desire to receive it.
David Clayton: Editor and Publisher
P. O. Box 23 Knockpatrick
Manchester, Jamaica W.I.
Phone: (876) 603-0821 Or (304) 932-4543
email: david@restorationministry.com
