The Battle is the Lord's

<p>Introduction</p><p>There is a difference in fighting a battle in your own strength, or letting God fight for you.  In the OT there are several different cases where the situation seemed hopeless and yet God performed miracles to save his people.  From Jericho to Gideon’s 300, from Elisha and the army against Dothan who was captured and taken to Samaria to have peace with them and stop two wars.<a>[1]</a>  The joy of knowing Jesus is for us and not against us is very comforting. Our enemy cannot defeat Jesus.</p><p>Read Text</p><p>A note from last week:  Laying on of hands and the transference of gifts and graces, encouragement at hope by touching and praying to God. On the one hand God baptizes in the Holy Spirit even if no one lays hands on you, but it can happen.  The issue is this: Historically, a distinction between clergy and laity has been created, and there are some things that only clergy who are “ordained” according to a specific tradition are able to do. Personally, this debate is beyond me, but I personally find it difficult to take certain scriptures and create something that neither the early church practiced nor taught.</p><p>There are leaders in the church, elders, administrators, teachers, pastors, apostles, prophets, and evangelists.  These are gifts of Jesus to the church. But to place them on pedestals is not the intention, but they are to serve others, not be exalted.  If they are good at what they do, honor them.  If they are heretical, have nothing to do with them. So, matters like baptism, communion, laying on of hands, and other foundational teachings from Hebrews 6<a>[2]</a> are the domain of the church and those who know Jesus and live in him.  If you know someone is sick, and you want to pray for them and believe that God will heal them, place your hands of them.  If you lead someone to Christ, bring them here and baptize them so we can all rejoice with you!</p><p>If you have company at home, and you are talking about Jesus, and you are sharing a meal, have communion as well!</p><p>N