This is the second in a series of studies on the book of 1John. I would like you to read From the Beginning before reading this one.
Flesh
Our first response to the word “flesh”
is usually negative. We remember Paul’s list of the works of the flesh
(which we want no part of) and his conclusion that they which do such things shall not inherit the kingdom of God
(Galatians 5:19 (KJV):21). He tells us that flesh and blood
(which he refers to as corruption
) cannot inherit the kingdom of God
(1Corinthians 15:50) and goes on to say that if we walk after the flesh
rather than after the Spirit
(Romans 8:1,4-5) we shall die,
but if, through the Spirit, we mortify the deeds of the body
we shall live
(Romans 8:13). He readily acknowledges that in my flesh dwelleth no good thing
(Romans 7:18).
The Greatest Deception
If I do not know that I and my Father are one,
(John 10:30) as Jesus knew it and prayed in John 17 that we would also know it, I will have a separate sense of self. In other words, I think that I am a separate self which I must preserve and protect —OR I must somehow persuade God (who is separate from me) to preserve and protect me. When I pray, I’m not asking for the Holy Spirit which is promised to those who ask (Luke 11:13) to guide me into all Truth (which is God). I am rather asking for that which I can consume upon my lust
to preserve the life I think I have responsibility for (James 4:3).
The Temptations of Jesus
- Matthew 3:16-17
- And Jesus, when he was baptized, went up straightway out of the water: and, lo, the heavens were opened unto him, and he saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove, and lighting upon him: And lo a voice from heaven, saying, This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased.
- Matthew 4:1
- Then was Jesus led up of the Spirit into the wilderness to be tempted of the devil.