Gene Cunningham - February 13, 2000
Cross to the Crown #11
Nine facets in the diamond on the bride - Diamonds in the Bible (Exo 28:18, Jer 17:1, Eze 28:13). The adornment of the bride is composed of the righteous act of the saints (Rev 19:7-9, Isa 61:10-11). Divine production in life of the believer are valuable (1Co 3:12). Living faith will be rewarded (Jam 2:17). The works of the flesh (Gal 5:16-21) are the antithesis to the fruit of the spirit (Gal 5:22-25). What does it take to make a diamond? one element (carbon), heat, pressure, time, cutting and polishing; the same is true of us when it comes to God increasing Christ-likeness in us. Diamond in original Greek means "invincible". Fruit of the Spirit has a threefold division -- spiritual relation to (1) God -- Love, joy, peace; (2) others -- patience, kindness, goodness; and (3) yourself - faithfulness, gentleness, self-control. The are fake diamonds Col 2:8, Col 2:16, Col 2:18; Col 2:23. Surrender is needed for this -- the character and conduct of Christ in us (Gal 4:19, 1Jo 2:6). Good works? (1) Sacrifice whatever will make another stumble (Rom 14:21). Maintaining sexual purity (1Co 7:1, 1Th 4:3). (2) Being content with what you have (1Co 7:26, 1Ti 6:8, Heb 13:5). (3) To exercise your spiritual gift for the blessing of other believers (1Co 12:7). (4) Generous giving (2Co 9:7-8, Gal 6:6). (5) Work in supporting yourself (Eph 4:28, 1Th 3:8-10). (6) Fight the good fight (1Ti 1:18). (7) Boldly confessing Christ (1Ti 6:12).
Scripture References: James 2:17, Colossians 2:23, Ephesians 4:28, Isaiah 61:10-11, Colossians 2:18, Galatians 6:6, Revelation 19:7-9, Colossians 2:16, Hebrews 13:5, Ezekiel 28:13, Colossians 2:8, Romans 14:21, Jeremiah 17:1, Galatians 5:22-25, John 2:6, Exodus 28:18, Galatians 5:16-21, Galatians 4:19
From Series: "The Cross to the Crown"
To get from 'the cross to the crown' we need to make decisions to live a life of spiritual dynamics using God's provisions -- His Word and Spirit. This series given in early 2006 before Gene moved back to the States outlines ten aspects of our discipleship.