Being an Impeccable and Authentic Christian Through Our Word

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The word is not just a sound or a written symbol. The word is a force; it is the power you have to express and communicate, to think, and thereby to create the events in your life. You can speak. ... The word is the most powerful tool you have as a human; it is the tool of magic. But like a sword with two edges, your word can create the most beautiful dream, or your word can destroy everything around you.

~ Don Miguel Ruiz, The Four Agreements - Be Impeccable with Your Word, p. 26 ~

The Gospel of John opens up with this statement of declaration regarding Christ and his divine authority:

In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. The He was with God in the beginning. All things came to be through him, and without him nothing made had being. ⁴ In him was life; and the life was the light of mankind. 

John 1:1-4, CJB

In the Greek, the WORD is LOGOS, and it is the word that gives us the term Logic. We understand that Christ was with our Heavenly Father in the beginning. He is the voice of God. This is validated throughout the New Testament. Christ spoke with authority. As we are representatives ministering in the name of Christ, we too speak in authority on His behalf.

What does it mean to be impeccable with our words? How does this translate into us speaking with authority?

As One having authority

We look to Mark 1:21-28 regarding how Christ spoke:

They entered K'Far-Nachum, and on Shabbat Yeshua went into the synagogue and began teaching. They were amazed at the way he taught, for he did not instruct them like the Torah-teachers but as one who had authority himself. In their synagogue just then was a man with an unclean spirit in him, who shouted, "What do you want with us, Yeshua from Natzeret? Have you come to destroy us? I know who you are - the Holy One of God!" But Yeshua rebuked the unclean spirit, "Be quite and come out of him!" Throwing the man into a convulsion, it gave a loud shriek and came out of him. They were all so astounded that they began asking each other, "What is this? A new teaching, one with authority behind it! He gives orders even to the unclean spirits, and they obey him!" And the news about him spread quickly through the whole region of the Galil. 

This is compared to Matthew 7:28-29:

When Yeshua had finished saying these things the crowds were amazed at the way he taught, for he was not instructing them like their Torah-teachers but as one who had authority himself.

Christ was impeccable with his words. When he taught it was with authority and not as the religious leaders had taught. When he ministered, he ministered under the authority of God's divine power and grace. This is evidenced in the Great High Priestly prayer of John 17. Here, we see Christ praying to the Father and declaring the words he received from the father, he also given to the disciples. Through the word (logic and reason) we come to know:

• The Truth
• Sanctified through its power and instruction
• Creates fulfillment and joy in our lives
• Generates faith and belief
• Unifies us with God the Father and Jesus Christ
• Expresses divine love and grace through its power

How many of us understand the dangerous power of the Word of God? I hear this all the time in various conversations. Yet, what does it mean to believe on the Word of God? Most merely reference the word of God as it is associated with the Bible. They conclude that the Bible is the final authoritative word of God. However, do you fully understand what is being said?

This is not a passing expression (as many today have appeared to use). It is one of the most dangerous characteristics of being a Christian in today's social climate and divisiveness. Here is what Alastair Roberts writes in his blog article: As One Having Authority - Mark 1:28-29

One of the dangerous yet important characteristics of the Church’s ministry is its authoritative speech: authorized by Christ himself, the Church is to communicate Christ’s own authority, obliging and releasing people to act in line with it. The Church does not just dispense advice but declares the word of Christ which obliges us to follow and by which one day we will be judged. The authoritative word of Christ furnishes lost and disoriented people with truthful ways of life.

The powerful word of God is not limited to a collection of 66 books. Christ is referred to as the Living word of God. He spoke on authority and taught what the Father had gave Christ to teach. Through Christ, we also are the Living words of God. Through us, we speak the truth and minister as Christ ministered.

On one occasion, the Savior spoke this truth to His disciples:

Yes, indeed! I tell you that whoever trusts in me will also do the works I do! Indeed, he will do greater ones, because I am going to the Father. In fact, whatever you ask for in my name, I will do; so that the Father may be glorified in the Son If you ask me for something in my name, I will do it.

John 14:12-14, CJB

Through our faith in God the Father and Jesus Christ, we are empowered to do the works of Christ, and even greater works. This includes mindful and sincere heartfelt prayer in asking for God's guidance, wisdom, intervention, and strength. All to further glorify the Father and Son.

It is through our faith in Jesus Christ that we are able to speak as one having authority. To call all men unto repentance. To forgive those who have trespassed against us. To preach with authority against the many seeds of doubt and fear. Our very words are impeccable where it brings light of hope, love, and truth within the darkest regions of the human heart. It beckons us to be a light unto the world.

Christ meets the woman caught in adultery

Speaking without sin

One of the hallmarks of Christ's authority is captured in the scene where a woman is brought before him. She was caught in the act of adultery. As an attempt to trap the Savior, the religious leaders and crowd awaited his response as to the condemnation and judgment based upon the established law (John 8:3-11, CJB)

Being an authentic Christian and being impeccable with our word means we do so in a manner that is without sin. Here is how Ruiz explains the first agreement:

Now let us see what the word impeccability means. ... Impeccable comes from the Latin pecatus, which means "sin." The im ... means "without," so impeccable means "without sin."

Ruiz further explains that this is speaking without judgment or blame. Specifically, toward oneself. However, this also means that when we speak with authority, it is done in a manner where we are not speaking out of judgment, criticism, blame, or in being condescending toward others. Christ spoke with authority: First toward the crowd ready to cast stones at the woman, and secondly toward the woman when he called her to repentance and asked her to stand and go forth to sin no more.

Unfortunately, many Christians preach and minister in a manner that is contrary to the way Christ ministered. This is evidenced in their conversations and tactics in so-called preaching the gospel through a spirit of contention and condescension toward others.

Let us not confuse this powerful ability to speak with divine authority. Truth will come across with harshness toward those in need of salvation and redemption. Scripture is clear on this. Yet, we do not have the authority to judge or condemn someone - that is reserved for the Savior. We do have the authority to preach the Gospel, call all people unto repentance, and teach them all that the Savior has commanded through discipleship.

When we are impeccable (meaning, we are ministering without sin in our hearts) in our words we speak the truth and love of Christ into the lives of those who are:

• Despondent
• Feeling lost and abandoned
• Experiencing adversity and despair
• Overwhelmed and burdened
• Experiencing fear and doubt
• Lacking hope and faith
• discouraged, disappointed, and let down
• experiencing health issues
• suffering

This is accomplished through mindfulness. We are not judging them, criticizing them, or putting them down. Instead, we are meeting them where they presently are. Speaking truth in love and comfort. Being compassionate and empathetic. We are not using terms couched in cliches. Our words are authentic and genuine.

In essence, when we speak without sin, we are speaking in a manner that is not rejecting of another person. This begins with how we speak to ourselves and accepting who we are through Christ's divine authority and grace. Until we heal ourselves and come unto Christ and seek his Forgiveness, we are not able to speak with authority and without sin.

Words bring healing and restoration

Another characteristic of Christ's ability to speak with authority is through the healing of individuals. People were not only amazed that Christ taught with authority (unlike scribes and religious leaders); they were also amazed at the power of his words that brought healing and restoration. 

One of the most interesting accounts is the healing of the man with palsy (Mark 2:1-12, CJB)

As Christians, our words have the divine power and authority to heal and restore. As we have come to understand, we shall do the works of Christ, and even do greater works than he has done. This may raise the question as whether or not there are healings today as there were in the time of Christ. I even came across one comment regarding someone asking how come God does not restore an amputee's hand?

First, we must understand that we have come far along in the field of medical science. What we are able to do today, was not available during the First Century. In a manner of speaking, God has provided us the means to restore limbs to people. They may not be flesh and bone limbs, however, many have gone on to great success with artificial limbs. Furthermore, there is the exploration of medical science and robotics. Secondly, healing and restoration begins with faith. Each encounter we read about where Christ heals - stems from the faith of those around the individual, and the individual themselves in taking the necessary action and following Christ's authority and word.

When we speak, without sin, and have faith in Christ, our words bring healing and restoration to those who are broken and lost. Has the power to lift others out of despair. Bring comfort during times of sorrow and suffering.

The Apostle Paul instructs us on how we bring restoration and healing within our families, and communities (Romans 12:4-18, CJB)

Here, we understand that healing and restoration rests upon our faith. It also rests upon our ability to show love and affection toward one another. Through this, we show mercy, and are able to effectively serve the Lord through our words and deeds. It also means we continue with fervent prayer and maintain patience in times of adversity.

Being impeccable with our words requires us to minister to those in need. Through our words we bring healing and restoration. While this may not manifest in physical healing, it may very well reach into the depths of the soul and bring to pass healing and restoration of faith and hope. This is quite true during our time where we have seen significant changes in how we are living our lives out.

While it is true that there are many in our society seeking after wickedness as a means to bring happiness and joy into their lives. Our duty and obligation are to speak truth in love and grace to bring healing and restoration to those who have found themselves bound in misery.

Conclusion

We are definitely living in unprecedented times. How we minister is based on whether we are authentic and impeccable with our word. Exercising our genuine faith in Jesus Christ, we have the power to speak with great authority. Through genuine faith in Jesus Christ, we have the power and authority to speak without sin. And through our genuine faith in Jesus Christ, we have the power to speak healing and restoration in the lives of those darken by sin and transgression.

Therefore, let us emulate our Savior and harness the power and authority of God in speaking truth that sanctifies, calls people unto repentance, and motivates others to walk in faith and obedience to all that Christ has taught and commanded us. 

Seek Wise Counsel

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“I will instruct and teach you

in this way that you are to go;
I will give you counsel;
my eyes will be watching you.

~ Psalm 32:8, CJB ~

Someone may suggest that you apply sound doctrine: Listen and learn. Our first reaction to this advice is to resist. We may convince ourselves that not everyone may say something that might be beneficial for us. The reality is that even those who provide unsolicited advice may actually be the reason for us to stop and consider the reality of truth. What you and I learn from negative feedback may be just as useful as receiving positive counsel.

The usefulness may open our own minds to our very wrong way of thinking and believing. Our Heavenly Father will utilize these moments to teach us in the way we may want to go. He will guide us. Even when someone provides negative advice. It helps us to learn our own unsolicited advice on the way we may want to go.

Seeking out wise counsel means we open ourselves up to listen to our own self-talk and bring those thoughts to God and seek His wise counsel and wisdom.

~ Today's Prayer and Meditation ~

Listen and learning is good advice as it helps us make significant progress in our spiritual growth. If we do this, we are well on our way seeking out wise counsel. If we do not use it well, we may soon find ourselves stuck in our own doubts and fears. All we need to do us open ourselves up to listening to our own self-talk and bring those thoughts before the Lord.

Heavenly Father, I pray that as I continue to learn and grow that I am opening myself up to my own ill-advice and counsel. Help me bring those thoughts before you and seek your wise counsel and divine insights. In Jesus name, Amen!

40-day Callenge | Go Forward with Faith and Purpose

 

Then Jesus told his disciples, “If anyone would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross and follow me. For whoever would save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for my sake will find it. For what will it profit a man if he gains the whole world and forfeits his soul? Or what shall a man give in return for his soul?
~ Matthew 16:24-26, ESV ~

For members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints this life has significant meaning and purpose. As we engage in our journey through the Come Follow Me – Old Testament Study there is a call upon each of us to seek after Christ, to be all the more converted, and to be equipped and grow spiritually. This life is much more significant when we realize that each one of us is on our own journey. A journey toward a defined destination because of the infinite atonement of Jesus Christ. A journey that sees fulfilment of our Heavenly Father’s plan of happiness.

As you study through the Old Testament this year – be sure to follow the admonish of our Savior. Take up thy cross and deny thyself so that we may find our own path, our own meaning, and our own purpose. This will help us discover the answer to life’s challenges we shall face in the coming year. It also helps us understand the reason for our own existence and what purpose our Heavenly Father has called us to. With this perspective one may find a reduction in anxiety, worry, stress, and bring thoughtful and meaningful decision making. One may also experience an increase in satisfaction in knowing who they are and where they are headed as we strive to endure and overcome as Christ has endured and overcame (Revelation 3:21).

READ MORE HERE: 40-DAY CHALLENGE

Scripture Motivation - Lay Hold Upon the Word of God

 

We are to Draw upon the Power of Scriptures to Benefit Self and Others

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How blessed are those who reject the advice of the wicked, don’t stand on the way of sinners or sit where scoffers sit! Their delight is in Adonai’s Torah; on his Torah they meditate day and night.
They are like trees planted by streams — they bear their fruit in season, their leaves never wither,
everything they do succeeds.
~ Psalm 1:1-3, CJB ~

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We gain power from the scriptures by studying them and applying them into our own lives. To benefit from the scriptures, we must do more than merely read them. President Joseph Fielding Smith made the following observation: “It would be well if we would follow the counsel the Lord has given us, which is: ‘And whoso treasureth up my word, shall not be deceived’ [Joseph Smith – Matthew 1:37]. Treasuring up his word is far more than merely reading it. To treasure it one must only read and study but seek in humility and obedience to do the commandments given and gain the inspiration which the Holy Spirit will impart” (Doctrines of Salvation, 1:305).

How Much We Get from Our Study Depends on How Much We put into it

Personal power from the word comes because of our devotion and discipline toward regular daily reading and searching of a particular topic within the scriptures. President Howard W. Hunter (1907 to 1995) made these suggestions for a successful scripture study program:

When we follow the counsel of our leaders to read and stuyd the scriptures, benefits and blessings of many kinds come to us. This is the most profitable of all study in which we could engage. …

Reading habits vary widely. There are rapid readers and slow readers, some who read only small snatches at a time and others who persist without stopping until the book is finished. Those who delve into the scriptural library, however, find that to understand requires more than casual reading or perusal – there must be concentrated study. It is certain that one who studies scriptures every day accomplishes far more than one who devotes considerable time one day and then lets days go by before continuing. Not only should we study each day, but there should be a regular time set aside when we can concentrate without interference.

There is nothing more helpful than prayer to open our understanding of the scriptures. Through prayer we can attune our minds to seek the answers to our searchings.

Reading the Scriptures: In Conference Report, October 1979, p. 91; or Ensign, Nov. 1979, p. 64

What aspect of your personal study of the scriptures do you find most satisfying? What aspect would you like to change? What suggestions made by President Hunter can help you spend more effective study time in the scriptures? How can prayer help you better understand and apply the scriptures?

READ MORE HERE: LAY HOLD UPON THE WORD OF GOD

How God meets us where we are

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One of the most challenge things in being a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is having to constantly be aware of one's on-going work toward perfection. Many times, as a Mormon, the constant teaching of, "you have to do this in order for this to happen," came across the pulpit, at firesides and in Sunday School. The tragic loss of this message is that most people who have left the Church finally realize the real freedom in a relationship with Jesus Christ and not being obligated to prove one's self-worth to God.

The simple message of the Gospel, and of the sacrifice the Savior made, is diluted, confused and wrapped in a more humanistic effort to please God. The reality is that because God is sovereign, loving and merciful, he meets us where we are at in the present moment - not where he desires us to be in order to bless us, redeem us, or even forgive us when we falter. Unfortunately, the Mormon faith, it's leaders and many members seemed to have lost sight of this important truth.

Sitting in counsel with the clinical director at the non-profit agency I work at, she said, if you really want to make an impact on the client's life, you have to meet them where they are at and not where you desire them to be. What is being said here is that as much as I want the client's that I work with to be free from their addiction and moving into a healthier lifestyle (which is nothing wrong to have such desire); the reality is that they may not even be ready to be at that point in their own recovery.

In essence, I have to meet them exactly where they are at in the present moment and be aware of their own brokenness, their own perception, and their own challenges and obstacles. Because, for me to constantly desire them to be where I want them to be, they are going to have that much more resistance to change. However, if I meet them where they are at in the present moment without judgment, criticism or expectation, they may eventually find the means necessary to slowly move into their own recovery and change will inevitably happen.

The sovereign creator of the universe also meets each and every one of us where we are at in the present moment. Regardless of what we have done up to that point. Regardless of what may or may not happen after that point. In the present moment of our mortal existence, our loving God meets us. Of course, His desire is to see that we move into a changed lifestyle and have a deep, intimate and meaningful relationship with us. However, that will eventually come to fruition. What matters is in that moment God meets us, we are right where we need to be for him to be there.

Throughout the Bible, we see exactly this pattern of God - meeting people exactly where they are at in the moment of their own need. The savior of the world met people exactly where they were at in the moment of their own need. Without criticism, judgment or expectation. These individuals did nothing to prove to God their worth in meeting their presenting needs.

A simple message, the Gospel, in that we all come to faith at that precise moment when the Grace of God floods our hearts and changes us into a new being - a new person because of the power of the Cross. We did nothing to earn it. Nowhere in the Bible does God say, or Christ say, that we have to first come before him with clean hands and clean hearts. For example, the woman caught in adultery was brought before Christ. The people were prepared to stone her as it was the custom and applicable to the law. However, Christ simply wrote in the sand and asked which one of them is free from sin? When he looked up and sees only the woman, his words are comforting - neither do I judge you, go and sin no more! (John 8:2-11, ESV)

Christ knew the hearts of those surrounding the woman. He met them exactly where they were at in their own sinful state. There was no statement of judgment. he who is without sin, cast the first stone. The only person present that was without sin was Jesus. Stoning, at that time, was a form of condemnation and punishment based on judging one's behavior. The crowd realized they were not perfect in that present moment. The woman realized she was not under condemnation and judgment for what she was caught doing.

Today, many members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints are being misled that they must perfect themselves and possess clean hands and a clean heart before God will even consider approaching them. Each member has to stand in counsel with someone to confess their sins in order to determine whether or not they are specifically "deemed worthy" to engage in some of the more esoteric rituals and forms of worship. One speck of sin in that person's life (where they are not following the direct commands) may bar them from participation. However, the scripture says that we are not perfect - only because of the sacrifice Christ made are we perfected in Him, because of His righteousness (Colossians 1:22, ESV) and we stand blameless and without reproach before a Sovereign and merciful God.

Even as Christians, we may stumble and may have at some point walked away from the faith - however, God is still merciful and just in that he does meet us where we are at - not where he desires us to be. No man has the right to say to another, "come, clean your garments and rinse the filth from off you before coming into the presence of God." For we all stand filthy, no matter how clean we may seem to believe. Only God can cleanse us from all unrighteousness and that by the power of Jesus Christ.