This is one of those verses to me that I can more clearly see both man and Christ in the same verse. As many false preachers puff men up to what they can do I pray that the Spirit dwells with and in you that you may be brought down and see these words in what you are and know the grace and mercy He is.
Extra Credit: For years I have lived off of Cassette Sermons. Joining now where many more are already, I now have a new computer and have discovered burning CDs and a new blessing of on line audio sermons to download. Just this time in place of a short article I have this RealPlayer sermon from Don Fortner on What will it take to bring you to Christ. If you have a chance and 38 min, it is worth listening.
Jhn 14:17 [Even] the Spirit of truth; whom the world cannot receive, because it seeth him not, neither knoweth him: but ye know him; for he dwelleth with you, and shall be in you.
- Why cannot the world receive the Spirit?
What solemn words we find today. In these times we have so many false preachers begging men to only receive Christ into their hearts. Placing the burden of a mans redemption in the will of that man. Preachers ending each sermon of lies with an alter call that will only lead their followers deeper into hell. Reader take heed this description of your will and ability. It does not allude to or state may or will not but clearly cannot, unable, and unwilling. But men in pulpits continue to spend their time convincing men of abilities they do not have to save them from what they do not want to leave. The truth is sadly, the true character of the man is one opposed to the Father, one who cannot see Him, know Him, and one who cannot and will not receive Him. But look on for we may also see a marvelous grace is in these words as well. For it is not because of our works, deeds, or personal fitness. Despite our character and inability to see, know, or receive Him. Even though our will desires the darkness and takes no steps on its own towards the light of salvation. But because alone, He dwells in the hearts of His elect. By grace ye shall know Him because He first knew you.
