Human Nature VI -X by David Heisler

Human Nature VI

It is clear that at the request of Jesus we are one with Him, the Father and with each other - sharing the divine nature. To say those facts is a good start. This is comparable to anything learned or acquired in life - when the understanding goes from your head to your heart – when you become the words you speak – when you wake up one day and can say with full assurance “I am Him in my world” – the vessel has now become the treasure and the branch has now become the vine. You are Him to those in need.

Then, curiously, you stop asking yourself about your “nature”. You now understand that you are now much more than your nature. You are the complete and total person you were created to be. You can stop the introspection and self-improvement program and look out to your needy and heartbroken world and be the healer and the lover you were created to be.

For me these thoughts make the question of one nature or two fade away. It’s not really important to me. I think what fuels the debate of “two natures” – “dog versus dog”, is what happens when you feel tempted or really take a fall into something that you later consider to be “wrong”. It happens. Do you think that Jesus ever had those thoughts? Did He say, “Could I have been more loving or more understanding today?” Or, “Did I just sin when I cleared out the temple with a whip?”


Human Nature VII

“And found in the temple those that sold oxen and sheep and doves, and the changers of money sitting: And when he had made a scourge of small cords, he drove them all out of the temple, and the sheep, and the oxen; and poured out the changers' money, and overthrew the tables…” John 2.14-15

In today’s world Jesus would have been sentenced to at least two years in state prison for the assault and battery. He actually got crucified – but the point is that today the police would have arrested Him immediately and taken Him to jail. The much bigger question is – do you think Jesus considered “that is just my ‘old Adamic’ nature rising up and I have to get it under control?” I doubt it. Certainly at this point in His life He saw Himself as a unified Person expressing only Divine Nature as His true Self. Does this mean that He was irresponsible for His actions? Am I advocating irresponsibility? My answer is absolutely “no” on both counts.

The fact that Jesus expressed His anger was not because he has two natures at war within Him and the “lower” nature took over. He expressed His anger because He was angry, period. That’s not so strange, is it? But if we express anger or otherwise do something “sinful” we assume that that is our “flesh” or our “old Adamic nature” or our “old man” – or anything, really, to deny the fact of the truth of our Divine Nature


Human Nature VIII

Now, what about the old “Adamic/Sinful Nature”? Is there such a thing? Does it apply to us? Can a person have two natures operating at the same time? There is much said, to the effect, that Christians have two natures but the rest of the world does not. The theory that a person can have two natures at one time has deep roots in Christianity. Having deeps roots doesn’t necessarily make it so.

Remember your “nature” is your operating system. It is the life that you express. We know for certain that we have the Divine Nature. . “… ye might be partakers of the divine nature … ” [2 Peter 1.4] “Partake” means to “share or participate”.

The question remains – is the rest of the world unified, one-nature beings and is it just Christians who are a hybrid of good and evil, fighting a daily battle to do good and avoid evil?

Jesus never defined anyone in those terms – ever. He did however have very harsh words for those He considered hypocrites. “Ye are of your father the devil, and the lusts of your father ye will do.” [John 8.44] But, what did Jesus say about the rest of us?


Human Nature IX

So, how did Jesus deal with the question of nature? With the hypocrites, His words were harsh and to the point. He angered those who later murdered Him. He stated, “Ye are of your father the devil, and the lusts of your father ye will do.” [John 8.44]
Now, it could be interpreted that the statement “of your father the devil” means that they are “containers” of sinful nature. He didn’t actually use that terminology. None-the-less he was definitely making a point to both the Pharisees and those within earshot – what they do and say is wrong, evil and not to be followed.

He never spoke of the rank and file in such negative terms. But what did Jesus have to say, virtually, to all others, most definitely including you and me? He said, “Ye are the salt of the earth…” [Matt. 5.13] And right after He said, “Ye are the light of the world.” [Matt. 5.14] We have no way of knowing if Jesus personally knew all the people of which He made these blanket statements. We have no way of knowing if each and every one of them had read the Four Spiritual Laws. [I’m kidding – Rev. Bright was not born yet] We don’t know if each and every one of them prayed the “sinner’s prayer”. [Assuming it had been invented yet – probably not]. We don’t know if each and every one had “received Jesus and their personal Lord and Savior”. [Assuming such terminology was used back then – probably not] So what was Jesus talking about when he called you and me salt and light?


Human Nature X

So what did Jesus mean when he called us “salt of the earth” and “light of the world”? Was He talking about our nature? Contrast that with what Paul talked about in Romans Seven. Is Paul contradicting Jesus by saying that we are “really” the “salt and pepper” of the earth? Is Paul saying we are the “light and dark” of the world? I think we can rest assured that Paul is not contradicting Jesus and not talking about our nature.

In the early church, Paul’s time, just as today, there is pervasive and persuasive influence that what was started with faith should now be completed with law – rules, regulations, and “way of life”. “Are ye so foolish? having begun in the Spirit, are ye now made perfect by the flesh?” [Gal. 3.3] But, Paul is not talking about our nature. We are unified persons expressing the divine nature in us. Paul is talking about the experience that we all go through that brings us back to the Savior’s Cross.

Generally speaking we all commence our life of faith with a moment of faith in Him. What we don’t know, at that time, is how complete that moment of salvation – redemption – reconciliation really is. In absolute reality, in that moment of our own personal history we experience the truth of Galatians 2.20 - ”I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me: and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave himself for me.”

Human Nature in Thoughtful Portions I -V by David Heisler

Human Nature

We use this phrase often – “human nature” – but I’m not sure we adequately define it. What is “human nature”? Is it simply the way we react and respond to the world, or to our own emotional or psychological state? Or is it something deeper? Are we limited or constrained by our “human nature”? Are we at odds with it and are forced to fight against it? Or, do we even have a nature at all?

Some say we have no independent nature and are simply containers or conduits of the nature of another. Some say we have two natures at work in us at the same time.

This is confusing. But, this is important. This question can never be adequately answered because you can’t see your nature the way you can see other parts that make you human – your nose for instance, although many can see no further. You can only “see” expressions or products of your nature – assuming you have one. You can see and feel and experience different things that give you some indication of “nature” – but you will never actually see your nature.

Why is this important – nature – none, one or two? Well, we spend a lot of time talking about our nature and trying to change it – or deal with it – or explain it away – or, perhaps, just trying to ignore it – but you will never really ignore it.


Human Nature II

I know a discussion of “human nature” is controversial. I knew it would be and hesitated for some time to start this discussion – but off we go.

Since, as I said in part one, “nature” cannot be seen with the eyes; to some extent we will never really know the answer to this question – no nature – one nature – or – two natures. But this is not math. This question cannot be answered or proven like two plus two equals four. Thankfully that is not the point. The point is that each and every one of us must answer this question sufficiently for ourselves. Because, unless and until we get our answer, personally – then we spin in circles and fight fights that waste our time and the resources of the Kingdom.

In a very real sense we must wrestle and prevail as Jacob when he wrestled all night and prevailed against some unknown man. [Gen. 32.24-25] As I understand the literal truth of this odd story, Jacob had a question – he wrestled with his question until he got his answer. I suggest he wrestled with his identify in Christ – although, of course, he did not use that terminology. There are times in life when we must wrestle with our own identity in Christ until we prevail and get our answers – and we do and we will.
Answering this question about nature – your nature is a question that we must wrestle with until our answer comes.

Human Nature III

No “nature” – one “nature” – two “natures” – which one? Of course the biggest problem is that in the Bible you can find support for any position you like – on any subject.

Let’s start with a definition – “nature”. Basically “nature” is how a thing, or in this case a person, operates – known usually by observing characteristics, qualities and temperament. But, of course there’s more. Presumably every living being has a nature. And, it’s important that that is so. Without a “nature” life would be absolutely unpredictable and it would be almost impossible to function.

I think we got past the first question – yes we do have a “nature”. For the most part people and things behave in a fairly predictable manner – according to their “nature”. Consider if every day you woke up and were unsure how you or others would react and respond in everyday situations. Of course that doesn’t happen. Things and people act and react and live very predictably - according to their “nature”.

But, before we decide how many natures we have operating at the same time, first we should decide where our nature comes from. That shouldn’t be so tough to figure out. As they say “the apple doesn’t fall far from the tree’. Who’s our tree? Who planted our seed? Where did He get the seed from?

Human Nature IV

Well, He is our tree. He both is our seed and He planted our seed. We are created in His likeness and in His image [Gen. 1.26] – and more so in Christ. Is our nature “independent” or ’’dependent”? I’m not sure how anything or anyone can be truly “independent” of Him. He created all and is the source of all. “All things were made by him; and without him was not any thing made that was made.” John 1.3

Back to why it is so important that this question of “nature” be laid to rest. My personal position is that I am one unified person. An old missionary [NPG are his initials] once said, to the effect –“when you see someone, you don’t say I see a ‘body’ – you say I see a “person’”. So I say – I’m just a person. I don’t say I’m a body, soul and spirit. I don’t say I’m a person with one nature fighting against another nature. I’m just a person. I am a redeemed and reconciled person. I am saved and justified – but a person, none-the-less.

So long as we are unsure of our person or our nature our focus is inward and that is not profitable for the Kingdom. We must put this question to rest and cease the self-examination and look outward - “Say not ye, There are yet four months, and then cometh harvest? behold, I say unto you, Lift up your eyes, and look on the fields; for they are white already to harvest.” John 4.35


Human Nature V

Did Jesus wrestle with the question of His human nature? Of course He did. There is no human issue that He did not address, confront and resolve for Himself. His nature was certainly one of those issues. But once He came to the point where He could say – “I and my Father are one” [John 10.30] – this issue was resolved for Him.

What did He pray for us? “And the glory which thou gavest me I have given them; that they may be one, even as we are one: “[John 17.22] There should be no doubt that Jesus’ prayer was fulfilled. “… ye might be partakers of the divine nature … ” [2 Peter 1.4]

Now, we can talk about humans as containers or expressers – and so we are. But this terminology is conceptual and used as a teaching tool, and is by no means the end of the discussion. “But we have this treasure in earthenvessels …” [2 Cor. 4.7] But, we are not really “earthen vessels” – we are really persons. “I am the vine, ye are the branches”. [John 15.5] But again, we are not really “branches” - we are really persons. The concept is over – the teaching tool no longer needed - when the understanding is gained in your heart – that understanding that we are more than what we may appear – we are the very human expression of Him – with His divine nature.

The Meaning of Union XVIII- XXIII (2017) - David Heisler

So Who is the One that lives His Life in, through and as us? He says His name is “I AM”. [Exodus 3.14] John describes Him as the embodiment of “Love”. “God is love”. [1John 4.8] So, it is that Love, Himself, lives His Life as us. So, who we really are, as Him, is becoming very clear. And we must be thoroughly grounded in this reality.
So, one thing we know is that love is not an emotion; although love can be felt. It is not a thing to be obtained. More properly Love is a Person -The Person. You will never be the originator of love nor own it or get more as if it were a thing to be obtained – but you will be an expression of The Person Who is Love.
Why is this important? Because - Love exists for others. Love has no other purpose. Consider the following. If God made a choice – and that is hard to imagine because “choice” is really a temporal word – a word for time and space. But, let’s say, He sat down one day and made a choice. Well, His choices are obvious. He could be alone – or - He could have created all that exists to serve Him – or - and the choice He obviously made, was that He could serve and, in fact, die for His creation. Well, if that’s not the best definition of love – I don’t know how to define love. And guess what that says about us?

The Child sees his “Christian” life as how it benefits him; “My sins are forgiven”, “I’m going to Heaven”. The Young Man also sees his “Christian” life as how it benefits him; “I am strong” – “I know the bible” – “I can whip the devil”. Or worse – the Young Man can get into doing this or that to obtain “blessings” or “wealth” or “health” or whatever. The Young Man can be very self-centered.
The Father is different. He knows the difference between the improved life and the replaced life. The difference should be clear. The Child or Young Man does not understand that he is in fact dead – crucified with Christ. “I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live ; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me …” [Gal. 2.20] He doesn’t understand that one that is dead cannot in any way improve. “For ye are dead, and your life is hid with Christ in God.” [Col. 3.3]
So the Child or Young Man may go many years, perhaps the rest of his life trying to improve or be better at his Christianity. The Father knows the truth. By revelation and intuition the Father knows that just as surely as he has been crucified with Christ, he has now been replaced in his spirit by God’s Spirit. The replacement is not partial nor is it temporal. The replacement is permanent and complete with no lack and no room for improvement.

And, here’s the key to understanding. The Father knows that his life is not about him or for him. The Father knows he lives his life for others. He is Christ in his world. And, probably most importantly, the Father knows that there is nothing he can do to achieve or improve the eternal fact of union and fatherhood and the fact that he is Christ in his world. And, accordingly, the Father knows that there is nothing he can do to “live his life for others”. He just lives. He doesn’t “try” to live his life for others. He just lives with the knowledge and assurance that his life is for others. And so he lives with, as the old missionary would say, “with a wink”. That “wink” is the same wink Jesus gave to Philip, when He said, “… he that hath seen me hath seen the Father …” [John 14.9] Jesus didn’t try to be anyone or anything. He just lived and spoke the truth. He knew that his life would be the “ransom for many”. [Matt. 20.28] And, He knew He could not make it so. He could only live and yield to the truth.
John says an amazing truth about the Fathers. “I write unto you, fathers, because ye have known him that is from the beginning.” [I John 2.13] Think about that. You and I know Him, the One “from the beginning”. This is not an external knowing. This is an internal, intuitive and intimate knowing. This is Union. You already have Union – His Spirit joined eternally and unchangeably to your spirit. And what does that mean? It means you are already a Father.

So – we are now the expression of Him who is Love. And, we are in fact, Love ourselves. We know that we are Fathers. We know that it is important to know this. But, ultimately, what is the purpose in all this? Are we created to be a race of immature Children and Young Men? Is there some eternal purpose in all being self-centered – “getting the blessings” like kids in a candy store? No, of course not.
The truth is that we are mature. We do know who we are. We are safe. We are His expression. He is the Lover. We are lovers. He is the Creator. We are creators. He gave His Life. We shall give our lives. This is truly Christianity. This is who we are. The process of going from the consciousness of Children to Young Men to Fathers is what Paul described as the “renewing of your mind”. “… be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind …” [Romans 12.2] “And be renewed in the spirit of your mind …” [Ephesians 4.23] Understanding that, as a Father, you exist for others is very different and very much bigger than your original thoughts about Christianity.
The Father’s mind is renewed. He does not see Christianity as a religion to improve his self. His self will never be improved, only replaced by Christ Himself. Fathers do not look to “get something” out of Christianity – rather – he sees himself as one who gives all because he loves and is love himself.

Look again at how John describes Fathers: “I write unto you, fathers, because ye have known him that is from the beginning.” [I John 2.13] There is such clarity in that vantage point – knowing Him – the One from the beginning. All the nonsense of religious Christianity drops away at that point. Get it? It is not religion – it is knowing Him.
“And this is life eternal, that they might know thee the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom thou hast sent. “ [John 17.3] That statement is beyond human grasp – except by intuition.
So how do you get it? How do you “know” your union? Well, for one, it exists whether you know it or not. That fact is eternally true. You are a father whether you appear to be or not. Your feelings are irrelevant as to eternal truth. Appearances can be irrelevant as to eternal truth. Feelings and appearances are not relevant unless they align with eternal truth.
But, there is one thing you must know. He always gives confirmation of what is real – eventually. That old missionary always talked about expressing faith like committing yourself to sitting in a chair. Have you ever seen someone sit in a chair and the chair broke. I have. It’s very funny if it’s not you. It does happen. Sometimes chairs break. However, He does not break. So, just take your seat.

You must fall backwards into Him like you would fall backwards into a chair. The only difference is that He will never, ever fail you and, most important, is that at some point you will realize that it is not you that hold Him, but He that holds you. You will realize that you do not hold Christianity together by anything you do – praying, reading, singing, fellowshipping, tithing – or any of the other “so-called” Christian activities. All is dependent upon Him, period.
At some point it will simply occur to you that – what you have said a thousand or ten thousand times that, “He lives His life as me”, is true. It may hit you like a ton of eternal bricks. And there will be confirmation. You will know your Union as a Father, brother of Jesus and a co-creator.
But, as sure as the sun will rise in the east – the reality and truth is that you were crucified with Christ – and – now the life you live, is Him living, as you. And the great part, it really is you. You, with all your interests, desires and all that concerns you, is exactly who you were created to be. So follow your passions and stop second guessing your motives.
Further, it is not your job to give the confirmation – it is His. So, basically just forget about it – let Him be Himself in you, as you.

The Meaning of Union XIII- XVII (2017) - David Heisler

This is a continuation of David Heisler's popular series which began here

When I was twenty-six years old I played minor league football in Wisconsin. One summer day in 1980 I was running wind sprints along Lake Michigan. I have been telling myself for seven years that I was in Union with my Creator, however, only understanding that truth on an intellectual level. Well, in mid-stride, I stopped on a dime. I said, “I’m dead”. Not only did I agree with Paul, but I understood. In a flash I understood on a heart level what I had been saying on an intellectual level since I was nineteen years old. “For ye are dead, and your life is hid with Christ in God.” [Col. 3.3] Very soon thereafter I also understood the following. “I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me…” [Gal. 2.20]
The Young Man stage ends with the heart knowing of the truth that a “dead” person is unable to improve self. How is it possible to go from a “not so good Christian” to a “great Christian”? What part of “dead” is going to become a better, more devoted Christian? What part of “dead” can live an ethics – morals – values based life? No part, whatsoever! The understanding – revelation – epiphany of Fatherhood – and of true Christianity for that matter, begins when a person understands that their life is over and that it is Christ that lives His life as you. Now, I will discuss this later, but this does not mean you live a “dead” life? By no means! Your life will be full and vibrant with true Life – Him as you and you as Him.

There are many fine religions in the world. When I say that I mean that if you are looking for an ethical or moral lifestyle and you want to make that lifestyle your religion, you have some good choices. Christianity, however, is not a religion. But, when it is approached as religion, as the Young Man does, Christianity fails. You will fail at Christianity and Christianity will fail you, if you approach it as a lifestyle of ethics and morality.
“Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life…” [John 14.6] So, “Life” is not a thing to be possessed, earned or created. Life is a Person – a Person that lives His life as me. It is quite humbling to grasp that He actually chooses to live His life in me and you, as me and you. But, upon recognition of the failure of Christianity as religion, and realization that Life is a Person, you commence the process of “Christ … [being] formed in you”. [Gal. 4.19] Christ, Himself living in and as us is not a religion. Jesus did not found a religion. Christianity is the living Christ, living in and as us.
Certain things in life must be learned by failure. And, certain things in life can only be known by first knowing the opposite. Christianity is no exception. You will probably never grasp the truth of your Union and that He lives in you until you become frustrated and feeling a failure at rule based, self-improvement Christianity.

Recall, John tells us that there are three stages of understanding or perception of our identity in Christ – Children, Young Men and Fathers. [I John 2.12-13] In the first two stages we perceive ourselves as independent beings – I’m here and God is there. As “independent beings” we go through all manner of exercise and programs as we attempt to work at and perfect our Christianity. Some use terminology such as our “walk with God”. Even that seemingly harmless phrase is so totally misleading. We don’t walk with Him. He walks in us. There is a difference. It’s all in how you see yourself. In Fatherhood we see and understand the difference between “walking with God” and “God walking in us”. But first, you must be thoroughly grounded in your attempt to live and see yourself as an independent being, perfecting your version of Christianity before you move on to Fatherhood.
Having started Christianity at a relatively advanced age [18] the whole deal came flying at me very quickly. At age 19, about 13 months after my salvation, I heard my first message of “union” - Fatherhood. I had the privilege [coincidence?] of accepting an invitation from a friend to hear an old missionary speak at All Saints Episcopal Church in Fort Worth, Texas. At that point, in my short Christian existence, I really had heard every different take on “real” Christianity and this message was different.

On that day in January 1973, at age 19, I really don’t recall exactly what that old missionary said, but I knew he was on to something. That’s understatement, as he was probably on to something from before my father was born. He encouraged me to see myself as God’s asset not His liability. And so, for the next seven and one-half years I said, to myself, over and over that I, David Heisler, am the David Heisler form and expression of the Christ. And, that is exactly what John meant when he said “Father”. And, I believed that to be true. But, for those seven and one-half years I really didn’t “get it”. It was initially only a concept to me – a concept I whole-heartedly accepted and wanted to know – but only, none-the-less, a concept.
So, why should we know our union? Because “Christ must be formed in you” [Gal. 4.19] – and the “forming” is the “knowing” – intuitively, permanently, unquestionably. And, the reality is the forming has already happened and now must be grasped. You must own your possession. You must know and be who you are.
As a Father you now know that He lives His life, not just in you, but as you. You drop the Child and Young Man notions of self-improvement and attaining or obtaining a better Christianity. You stop running down those dead ends.
Why is that so important? Why must I know this?

We must all take our best shot at grasping, understanding and living in the full expression of who we really are. Human beings are the highest form of created beings; higher than angels. With all due respect to the angels, and believe me I don’t want to anger one of those great warriors, but they know nothing of faith as we do. They see God face to face. As humans, locked in time and space, we simply don’t see Him that way. Moses might have. But, we, for the most part, operate in a realm of faith and intuition, but not always by sight. “The just shall live by faith.” [Habakkuk 2.4 and Romans 1.17]
We are sons and daughters of God. “Wherefore thou art no more a servant, but a son; and if a son, then an heir of God through Christ.” [Gal. 4.7] This is a strong affirmation of our personhood. As I said earlier, we are God’s assets in this world. And, indeed His best assets. So we must settle once and for all the question of who we really are.
And “who we are” is plain. We are Fathers. Father’s know their identity. Father’s know and are settled in the reality that He lives His life in us and as us. And Who is He that lives His Life in and through us? In the Old Testament He tells us His name - “I am”. Jesus also said “I am”. But that sort of begs the question – “I am who – I am what?” Well, He answers that question also …

The Meaning Of Union I - VIII - David Heisler (2017series)

This is a 2017 version of the subject covered here in 2013



David Heisler is on Facebook which is where these teaching topics are published

What is meant by “union”? “Union” expresses a “right now” reality for all who believe in Jesus. Now, is belief in the historical person, Jesus of Nazareth, required for “union” reality? That is a good question for another day. It should be clear though that the Jesus we know is truly not the Man, Jesus, who lived some 2000 years ago. We do believe in Him and we know somewhat, historically, about Him. But the One we know in our hearts and in our spirits is the eternal Jesus – the eternal Christ – the eternal Messiah. At this point you may be confused or even troubled that I make this distinction. Read on.


If you are reading this you have “union” or are “in union” with God. All those who believe are really and truly in union with their Creator. The much more important question is if we know this reality, this union. And, we may not know it - yet.
I am talking about moving into the “inner knowing” of union. This discussion must start with how you perceive yourself at this moment. This “moment” is the only one you have. I’m not sure if there really is another moment other than the one we experience presently. Jesus is certainly the Alpha and the Omega – the beginning and end, but we only know this one moment at a time. We must find Him and our union, oneness with our Creator, in this moment.

There are certain realities in life for the believer. So, when I say that all believers are in union with their Creator; that is a reality. And, reality is not changed or altered by your opinion of what is real. But the day to day living in this reality is affected by your perception of reality and, in turn, your perception of yourself.
There are three very distinct perceptions of who or what you know and believe yourself to be. The best scriptural reference I know, and, refer to often, regarding personal perception, is found in I John 2.12-13: “I write unto you, little children, because your sins are forgiven you for his name's sake. I write unto you, fathers, because ye have known him that is from the beginning. I write unto you, young men, because ye have overcome the wicked one. I write unto you, little children, because ye have known the Father.”
John refers to three categories of perception, Children, Young Men and Fathers. These are not three categories of personhood, only of perception and understanding at the moment. There are not three categories of believers. In fact we are all Fathers – we just don’t all know it. But when we do - we know our “union”. You always are in union with God, but you might not be fully aware of it at this moment. But, there are eternal reasons and meaning for each category.

John says, “Children, Young Men and Fathers”. [1 John 2.12-13] The category you find yourself in is merely your perception of yourself. Of course we all have all sorts of perceptions and thoughts, but these are the basic three – Children, Young Men and Fathers - at least as far as John saw it.
Now, what does “category” or “perception” mean? Let’s explain. “Children” see themselves in a childlike relationship with God. Generally speaking that person is relatively new to the faith. That person might have had a dramatic conversion experience, as I did. God, who was far off, is now near and He is kind and loving and basically, “Daddy”. It’s a sweet time especially for those who really need a Daddy. However, the Child is basically a “taker” and not a “giver” and, in basic, early immature perception, not much help in the furtherance of the Kingdom. But that is not a criticism, only a factual statement of where we all began.
In the Child stage “forgiveness of sin” is big – for many - really big. I say that because there are many that come to faith in Jesus with a checkered past. Their life gets a complete makeover upon faith in Jesus. So, knowing the burden and the penalty of sin is lifted and that you have eternal life because of the vicarious death of the Savior, life is wonderful and changing, perhaps rapidly.

So, we said that “Child” is the start in how you perceive yourself in this new life of faith and knowing God. And, just as a human child, the reality is that you’re not going to stay a “Child” forever. Some try, but inevitably all will move on.
And, just as a human child, you are totally on the receiving end, dependent on others. And, as it should be, the Child is full of awe and wonder. The Child has many questions and no end of the more “experienced” willing to give advice and guidance. Everyone wants to make sure the Child gets started on the right foot.
Most, new to Christianity, approach it as one would approach anything new – get with the program - find out what you can - associate with others. Advice is freely given by those further down the road.
Up until salvation God is seen as far off. He appears to be a separate entity from me. We seem to exist in the same universe, but He is “up” in heaven and I am “down” here on earth. But, after salvation - we now know Him, personally, intuitively, and before we did not. But basically He still appears to be “outside” or “separate” from us. Christianity is now seen as a thing to be learned, program to do – Bible to memorize, quiet times to have, church to join and go to, bible studies to attend. It can all get very complicated very quickly. It did for me.

I became a believer in Jesus at 18 years of age. I was born and raised Jewish and then, a few months after my moment of faith in Jesus, got baptized and confirmed in the Roman Catholic Church at Sacred Heart University in Bridgeport, Connecticut. Next, I was baptized Southern Baptist at James Avenue Baptist Church in Fort Worth, Texas. Next, I learned about communal living at the Episcopal Church of the Redeemer in Houston, Texas. I attended Bill Gothard’s Institute in Basic Youth Conflicts. And finally, I got the "Holy Ghost” complete with my own prayer language. All this occurred before my 20th birthday. Not bad for a Jewish kid from New York.
I was a mess.
What happened? What happened to the simplicity of “Daddy”...my sins are forgiven... and I’m going to heaven? Well, what happened was my Child stage of Christianity was over and I commenced life as a Young Man. While my life history may be different than yours, we all have similar feelings, emotions and psychology regarding our progression from Children to Young Men and on to Fatherhood. However, before jumping into the “Young Man” discussion, it is crucial to understand what Christian “growth” means and to review some basics.

Let’s discuss “Christian” growth. First, consider a human embryo. Upon conception that human has the genetic potential for all he or she will ever be. While the human will grow from a microscopic size to a full grown size – the fertilized egg, genetically speaking, is a complete human being. That embryo will never become more of a human being or a better human being. In the very same sense the “child” Christian – while new in the faith – is a complete Christian. In fact, better still, a complete person. The Child will never become more of a Christian or a better person. The Child will never be closer to God or have more of Him. The Child is a 100% complete Christian at salvation.
Now, you would never ever say that because a human being is young or small, that somehow they are not a complete person. Physical growth does not affect the reality of who a human, or a person, is. The confusing point is that, as Christians, we equate Christian growth with getting closer to God by learning more about Him or living a more ethical or moral existence – doing what “Jesus would do” – becoming more “Christ-like”. This is primarily because in the “Child” and “Young Man” stages, God is still perceived as external or a separate Being – which is a misconception – as He is neither external nor separate.

In reality God chose to deem the entire creation lost - not some more than others – just all lost. All need forgiveness – all need a Savior. What He did at that point did not depend upon a human – with the exception of One – Jesus Christ. The crucifixion is the one and final sacrifice needed to bring the entire creation to redemption. “… though the blood of his cross, by him to reconcile all things … [Col. 1.20] And, the crucifixion is not just a historical event, but rather eternal.
So, when a person avails their self to the free gift of redemption, a very common prayer used by many, upon their first exercise of faith is, “Come into my heart, Lord Jesus”. Well, guess what? That is actually and precisely what happens. Why would anyone doubt that? His Spirit is now joined to your spirit. His Heart and your heart are one. An eternal, Holy Union of God to man is created upon that exercise of faith. It does not get “better” or “more”. It simply is. We should be crystal clear on that point. It really doesn’t get any better. Union is not a relationship that can be measured. It simply is. The only relevant question remaining, and what we are really talking about here is, “do I know it?” Do I know my union? And the reality is that a Child or Young Man really cannot know their union. The union is real however, but it simply is not for the Child or Young Man to fathom – not at the moment.

So basically, in a flash, at the moment of faith, you go from lost to found – sinner to saint. Jesus really, really comes into your heart and you are now born again as a new creation in Christ. There are no better or worse sinners. By the same token there are no better or worse saints. You either are or you are not. And, of course if you are reading this – “you are”. So, if there actually is such a thing as “Christian growth”, it is and can only be in the human understanding of who you already are, not in the reality of who you are.
So, Christian growth, if there is such a thing, is all about understanding, not about becoming. At the moment of salvation His Spirit formed a union with your spirit. Despite the eternal truth that you are in Spirit to spirit union with the King of Kings, you may not know that. The eyes of a Child or a Young Man can still perceive Him as being distant and a distinct Being.
We now enter the Young Man stage. Remember how John describes the Young Man: “… I write unto you, young men, because ye have overcome the wicked one…. I have written unto you, young men, because ye are strong, and the word of God abideth in you, and ye have overcome the wicked one.” [I John 2.12-14]

45 Years on this side of the Cross - David Heisler's testimony

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David

I

On December 16, 1971 Jesus put His arms around me. He saved my life and gave me Life. Here is my Testimony:
I’m a Jewish guy, born in New York City and raised in Connecticut. Jews, if they believe in a Messiah [Christ] at all, will generally say that he has not arrived. Most won’t talk about “Messiah”. There is some notion, in the Old Testament, that when the Messiah arrives there will be “peace on Earth” and since there is not peace now, then, ipso facto, there is no Messiah, yet.
In Jewish tradition there are different beliefs as to exactly who or what the Messiah is. There is certainly no consensus that He is the Son of God. As a kid I did go to synagogue (Jewish church) to some extent, but I never did my bar mitzvah at age 13 as some of my friends and most of my cousins. I did not take the study of Hebrew seriously so my family decided not to spend the money on the bar mitzvah. Bar Mitzvahs can be very expensive.
Nonetheless, I always believed in God. To me it was fighting words if someone said that God did not exist. I never thought that life or anything for that matter could exist without God. Nothing made sense if there was no God. I remember lying in my bed at night, looking up at the ceiling and thinking, “I know You’re out there, somewhere, but I don’t know You.” I was speaking to and about God. I believed in Him, but didn’t know Him. Believe me, there is a difference between acknowledging existence and knowing.

II

In 1971 I enrolled at Texas Christian University in Fort Worth, Texas – it’s a long story how a Jewish kid from New York and Connecticut got to TCU – a story for another time. But, hint, hint, it had something to do with the Dallas Cowboys. It seemed as soon as I arrived on campus I immediately started meeting people who wanted to talk to me about Jesus. This all was shocking. I was a Jewish kid that grew up in a largely Italian-Catholic, African-American neighborhood. Back home no one tried to “convert” me. No one asked me if I was “saved”.
All the Jesus talk in Fort Worth was a different language to me. And, I never really considered “eternal” questions before. And, yes, I did hear a bit of “fire and brimstone”, but that neither persuaded me or truly concerned me. I never, and don’t now, consider God to be concerned with correct theology, only a correct heart. But, for the first time in my life I was confronted with the Jesus people. Previously I was convinced that Jesus was not the promised Messiah. But my new Texas friends said, to the contrary, that he was the Messiah. Now, not all these conversations were the afore-mentioned “fire and brimstone”, and at first this talk seemed amusing, but later disturbing and I eventually tried unsuccessfully to avoid it. But, I did not stop thinking, as the foundations of everything I knew and believed and thought about God were being shaken to the core. I guess He was up to something.

III

I can’t really picture Who God Is. But Jesus says, “… Have I been so long time with you, and yet hast thou not known me, Philip? he that hath seen me hath seen the Father; and how sayest thou then, Shew us the Father?” [John 14.9] So, I’m thinking, Who is this Person Who so arranges my life that I get to Fort Worth, Texas at the precise moment in history? How can He take a personal interest in me and everyone? My human mind cannot really fathom or understand such a Person. But I can see Jesus, the Person as myself, yet the Creator and King, Who defines Himself as Love, “God is love” [1John 4.8], and knows exactly how many hairs are on my head. “But there shall not an hair of your head perish.” [Luke 21.18] He knows everything about all the billions of us and is active in every life.
Over the course of my first semester in college I got mononucleosis and stayed in the TCU infirmary for two weeks. I met the head nurse Helen Williamson and I had previously met one of her four sons, Nathan, as he was also a freshman at TCU.
College life was not as I had hoped. My football career was in shambles with a torn up right knee needing surgery. I missed home and family. I felt very alone at times. The Jesus people were getting to me. I wanted to go home. So I decided that at the end of the semester I would go back to Stamford, Connecticut and enroll in a local college.

IV

So I decided to go home and my last day in Fort Worth was December 16, 1971. There is nothing random in the universe as the Designer Himself tells His-story as He sees fit. Yet, I can’t recall why, but for some reason, on that day, I wandered into the TCU Health Center. The head nurse, Helen Williamson spotted me immediately and asked me into her office. We sat and she asked me point blank, “are you happy David?” I said “no”. She said “you need Jesus”. I said, “no I don’t.” She said, “why don’t you come over my house for dinner tonight and meet my family”. I said, “If you make brownies you got a deal.” She said “yes” and I accepted the invitation to dinner.
I don’t recall for certain anything other than the brownies, but I think I ate fried chicken. A surprise guest showed up after dinner, Rocky Freeman, a Jewish evangelist. Rocky and I talked and mostly argued for about two hours about God, Judaism, salvation and mostly his opinion that I needed Jesus. I was not convinced by the time dinner was over. However, over the course of my conversation with Rocky I happened to get a glimpse of the Williamson boys who were trying to listen in to our conversation. Three of the four boys still lived at home: Nate, Rod and Clay. When I saw them they giggled and were quite playful with each other. That scene, which I will never forget, was what convinced me that there was something different about this family and that there was something, or really, Someone, behind all this Jesus talk I had heard for months.

V

So, all these months of listening to the spoken word regarding Jesus and the often repeated claim of my need for salvation was important but not what eventually convinced me. By December 16, 1971 I knew all the words and scriptures. But none of that clinched the deal. I had to see Him. I had to see Him in action and I did. I saw Him in the faces of Nate, Rod and Clay Williamson. I saw the living word. That night I saw the most loving and caring family I have ever seen – Helen, her husband, Charles, and Nate, Rod and Clay. Now, don’t get me wrong, I grew up in a family that loved each other also, but there was something different in the quality of love expressed in Williamson family.
At the conclusion of the evening I thanked Helen for dinner and then Nate gave me a ride back to my dorm room. Later Nate told me that he tried his best to say whatever he could to polish off the night’s discussion. I didn’t hear a word. I just thought and thought about how someone or something had made this family so warm and loving toward each other.
I knew when I got in my room that I would do something. What? I wasn’t sure. I couldn’t get out of the car fast enough and ran into my dorm room and right to the small mirror above the sink.

VI

The ride back to Tom Brown Dormitory at TCU was surreal. I didn’t and really couldn’t hear one word Nate said. Jesus has been called the “Hound of Heaven” and I know why. If He’s after you, He’ll get you, eventually. I think of so many people who spoke a word of faith to me along the way. They couldn’t close the deal. Did they feel frustrated or, perhaps, a failure? I don’t know. But the lesson on that is clear. Just speak a word of faith regardless. Encourage people. You may never see the “moment of faith”. The Williamson family didn’t know for many months what happened to me next.
I got out of the car. I don’t know if I said anything to Nate. I ran into my dorm room. My roommate was gone. I walked to the sink. I looked into the mirror and said, “Jesus Christ, if you’re the Son of God, I give you the opportunity to prove it to me right now.”
Well, He had been hounding me for some time. He was right there. Jesus was standing behind me and He put His arms around me. I did not see Him. But He was there and the experience was real. At age 18 He seemed to be a mature, older man at age 33. Now, He seems to be a young man. Regardless, that was the most real moment of my life. My eyes swell with tears every time I think about it. I have not doubted since then. That was December 16, 1971. From that moment forward I have known Him in a personal way - Jesus embraced me and came into my heart.

VII

So, what exactly did happen on that night, December 16, 1971? It was my moment of faith. As I said He is the Hound of Heaven. He is after, really, everyone, no doubt. In Revelation He says, “Behold, I stand at the door, and knock: if any man hear my voice, and open the door, I will come in to him, and will sup with him, and he with me.” [Rev. 3.20] There are many ways to describe how He approaches each and every one. But He does. He can be subtle. Or He can pound on the door. But the situation always requires us to do something - an act of faith. The words that I used, “Jesus Christ, if You are the Son of God, I give You the opportunity to prove it to me right now”, was my personal act of faith. I really have no idea where those words came from. Maybe He gave them to me, but I had to voice them. I had to take action. And I did and He did.
Once I opened my heart, He provided the proof of His existence. That’s the key. You must open your heart, even a just crack. The assurance will come. For me, it was immediate. For others it may take time. Probably, no two experiences are alike. I have had any number of people say to me that they “tried” exactly what I did, saying what I said, and it “didn’t work”. I’m not shocked by that. My experience is mine and yours is yours. But He is the same and when the door of your heart is open, He will come in. And, either at that moment, or another moment that He chooses, you will know Him.
So where do I go from there? It’s been a long time, 45 years. Well, I’m not writing an autobiography. But I have a few more thoughts, so there will be a Part VIII.

The Meaning of Union IX to XVII by David Heisler

 The great misconception of Christianity is that it is about "me”.  However, the great truth of Christianity is that “me" is done - dead.

  David can be found at 

https://www.facebook.com/david.heisler.7

 

The Meaning of Union IX

12 June 2013 at 19:58

The Young Man still sees God as external – separate from himself.  He thinks he must wake God up to the problems of the world.  God is somewhere else; perhaps sleeping, and must be entreated to “do such and such a thing”.   “Strength” is seen as a thing to be acquired – that God will give you if you ask Him properly.  The Young Man will, eventually fall flat on his face and say “it’s not working”.  He will be frustrated with his inability to move forward, as he thinks he should, into Christian maturity.  He is now ripe for the next step – Fatherhood.

When I was young all I wanted to do was play football.  So I did all the things I thought I needed to do to be a better football player.  I saw it as a progression from “not a good football player” to someday, maybe, if I worked hard enough, to a “great football player”.  I approached Christianity the same way.  I wanted to go from being a beginner to being a great Christian.  So I did everything I thought I should do – and – there were many well-intentioned people, willing to pile on all the requirements.    I got a bible.  I got another bible.   I got a better bible.  I got a concordance.  I joined a church. I joined another church.  I joined a better church.  I started reading the bible.  I listened to sermons.  I took notes.  I went to bible studies.  I taught bible studies. I memorized scripture.  I witnessed – I actually won people to Christ. 

 

The Meaning of Union X

13 June 2013 at 19:49

The great misconception of Christianity is that it is about "me”.  However, the great truth of Christianity is that “me" is done - dead. But, “me" is alive. Actually, “it is Christ that lives in me”.   “I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me…”  [Gal. 2.20] “For ye are dead, and your life is hid with Christ in God.”  [Col. 3.3]

So the truth is - what part of “dead” is available for self-improvement?  How is it possible to go from a “not so good Christian” to a “great Christian”? What part of “dead” is going to become a better, more devoted Christian?  What part of “dead” can live an ethics – morals – values based life?  No part, whatsoever!

The understanding – revelation – epiphany of Fatherhood – and of true Christianity for that matter,  begins when a person understands that their life is over and that it is Christ that lives His life as you.  Now, I will discuss this later, but  this does not mean you live a “dead” life.  By no means!  Your life will be full and vibrant with true Life. 

“Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life…”  [John 14.6]  So, “Life” is not a thing to be possessed.  Life is a Person  – a Person that lives His life as me.  It is quite humbling to grasp that He actually chooses to live His life as me.

The Meaning of Union XI

14 June 2013 at 23:10

When you fail at Christianity – or rather when Christianity fails you - you commence the process of “Christ … [being] formed in you”.  [Gal. 4.19]  Our life as Christ in and as us is not a religion.  Jesus did not found a religion.  But if Christianity – faith in the living Christ, Who lives in and as us – is processed as a religion, then failure is inevitable.

Having started Christianity at a relatively advanced age [18] the whole deal came flying at me very quickly. At age 19, about 13 months after my salvation, I heard my first message of “union” - Fatherhood.  I had the privilege [coincidence?] of accepting an invitation from a friend to hear an old missionary speak at All Saints Episcopal Church in Fort Worth, Texas.    At that point, in my short Christian existence, I really had heard every different take on “real” Christianity.  I really don’t recall exactly what that old missionary said that day, but I knew he was on to something [understatement].    The speaker encouraged me to see myself differently.  For the next seven and one-half years I said, to myself, over and over that I, David Heisler, am the David Heisler form [expression] of Jesus Christ.  I believed that to be true.  But, for those seven and one-half years I really didn’t “get it”.  It was initially only a concept to me – a concept I whole-heartedly accepted and wanted to know – but only, none-the-less, a concept.

 

Plainly stated – “dying out to self” is a lie.  It cannot happen.  Even if it could, it does not need to happen. 

The Meaning of Union XII

16 June 2013 at 01:12

In my mid-twenties I played minor league football in Racine, Wisconsin.  One day, during the summer of my 26th year, I was running wind sprints along the side of Lake Michigan.  I was thinking of an idea that I had heard many times – that “you must die out to self”.  That statement is a staple in many Christian circles.  Plainly stated – “dying out to self” is a lie.  It cannot happen.  Even if it could, it does not need to happen.  Why?  Because of the very next thought I had as I was sprinting.

“I am dead”

I stopped “on a dime”.  The thought, “I am dead”, hit me like a ton of bricks.  I made that statement a thousand times since I first heard the message of Union [Fatherhood].  But this time was different.  It stuck.  I got it.  The very truth that He now lived His life as me was no longer theory or a concept to me.  It was no longer a statement I made.  It was true.  He was true.  He lives His life in His David Heisler form.  The chair I sat in proved it could hold me.  He proved He could hold me.

Is this the end of the story?  Of course not.
 

 

The Meaning of Union XIII

17 June 2013 at 19:41

The Child sees his “Christian” life as how it benefits him; “My sins are forgiven”, “I’m going to Heaven”.  The Young Man also sees his “Christian” life as how it benefits him; “I am strong” – “I know the bible” – “I can whip the devil”.  Or worse – the Young Man can get into doing this or that to obtain “blessings” or “wealth” or “health” or whatever.  The Young Man can be very self-centered.

The Father is different.  He knows the difference between the improved life and the replaced life.  His life is not about him or for him.  The Father knows he lives his life for others.  He is Christ in his world.  And, probably most importantly, the Father knows that there is nothing he can do to achieve or improve the eternal fact of union and fatherhood and the fact that he is Christ in his world.  So, he doesn’t try or do anything different.  He just lives.  But he lives with, as the old missionary would say, “with a wink”.  That “wink” is the same wink Jesus gave when He said to Philip, “… he that hath seen me hath seen the Father …” [John 14.9}

 “I write unto you, fathers, because ye have known him that is from the beginning.”
[I John 2.13]  Let’s not forget one thing – you already have Union – His Spirit joined eternally and unchangeably to your spirit.  What does that mean?  It means you are already a Father.

The Meaning of Union XIV

18 June 2013 at 18:19

The question arises, "Why should I know my union?"  The answer is simple, “Christ must be formed in you” – and He already is – but the “forming” is the “knowing” – intuitively, permanently, unquestionably. 

Why is that so important?  Why must I know this?  In the Old Testament He tells us His name - “I am”.  Jesus also said “I am”.  But that sort of begs the question – “I am who – I am what?”.  Well, He answers that question also – “God is love”.  So, one thing we know is that love is not an emotion; although love can be felt.   It is not a thing to be obtained.  More properly Love is a Person -The Person.  You will not get more love as if it were a thing to be obtained – but you will be an expression of The Person Who is Love.

Why is this important?  Because - Love exists for others.  Love has no other purpose.  If God made a choice – and that is hard to imagine because “choice” is really a temporal word – a word for time and space. But, let’s say, He sat down one day and made a choice.  Well, His choices are obvious.  He could be alone – or - He could have created all that exists to serve Him – or - and the choice He obviously made, was that He could serve and, in fact, die for His creation.  Well, if that’s not the best definition of love – I don’t know how to define love.

The Meaning of Union XV

19 June 2013 at 23:29

So – we are now the expression of Him who is Love.  And, we are in fact, Love ourselves.  We know that we are Fathers.  We know that it is important to know this – but why?   Well, what is His purpose in all this?  Are we created to be a race of immature Children and Young Men?  Is there some eternal purpose in all being self-centered – “getting the blessings” like kids in a candy store?  No.  Of course not.

The truth is that we are mature.  We do know who we are.  We are safe.  We are His expression. He is the Lover.  We are lovers.  He is the Creator.  We are creators.  He gave His Life.  We shall give our lives.  This is truly Christianity.  This is who we are.  The process of going from the consciousness of Children to Young Men to Fathers is what Paul described as the “renewing of your mind”.  “… be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind …” [Romans 12.2] “And be renewed in the spirit of your mind …” [Ephesians 4.23] Understanding that, as a Father, you exist for others is very different than your original thoughts about Christianity.

The Father’s mind is renewed.  He does not see Christianity as a religion to improve his self.  His self will never be improved, only replaced by Christ Himself.  Fathers do not look to “get something” out of Christianity – rather – he sees himself as one who gives all because he loves and is love himself.

The Meaning of Union XVI

20 June 2013 at 18:09

Look again at how John describes Fathers:   “I write unto you, fathers, because ye have known him that is from the beginning.” [I John 2.13] There is such clarity in that vantage point – knowing Him – the One from the beginning.  All the nonsense of religious Christianity drops away at that point. Get it?  It’s not religion – it’s knowing Him.  
“And this is life eternal, that they might know thee the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom thou hast sent “[John 17.3]. That statement is beyond human grasp – except by intuition. 

So how do you get it?  How do you “know” your union?  Well, for one, it exists whether you know it or not.  You are a father whether you appear to be or not.  Your feelings are irrelevant as to eternal truth.  Appearances can be irrelevant as to eternal truth.  Feelings and appearances are not relevant unless they align with eternal truth.

There is one thing you must know.  He always gives confirmation of what is real – eventually.  That old missionary always talked about expressing faith like committing yourself to sitting in a chair.  Have you ever seen someone sit in a chair and the chair broke.  It’s very funny if it’s not you.  It does happen.  Sometimes chairs break.  However, He does not break.

The Meaning of Union XVII

21 June 2013 at 17:57

You must fall backwards into Him like you would fall backwards into a chair.  The only difference is that He will never, ever fail you and, most important, is that at some point you will realize that it is not you that hold Him, but He that holds you.  You will realize that you do not hold Christianity together by anything you do – praying, reading, singing, fellowshipping, tithing – or any of the other “so-called” Christian activities.  All is dependent upon Him, period.

At some point it will simply occur to you that – what you have said a thousand or ten thousand times “He lives His life as me” – is true.  It may hit you like a ton of eternal bricks.  There will be confirmation.  You will know your Union as a Father.

But, as sure as the sun will rise in the east – the reality and truth is that you were crucified with Christ – and – now the life you live, is Him living, as you.

The good thing is that it is not your job to give the confirmation – it is His.  So, basically just forget about it – let Him be Himself.

And, so, in the words of Forrest Gump, “that’s all I have to say about that [for now]”

 The question arises, "Why should I know my union?"  The answer is simple, “Christ must be formed in you” – and He already is – but the “forming” is the “knowing” – intuitively, permanently, unquestionably.

For more on Christian Growth read these two articles of Daniel Yordy
The Second Place of Knowing God
 
The Third Place of Knowing God

The Meaning of Union - Parts I - VIII by David Heisler

It really doesn’t get any better.  Union is not a relationship that can be measured.  It simply is. 

 

 David can be found at 

https://www.facebook.com/david.heisler.7

 

The Meaning of Union I

3 June 2013 at 17:42

In Christian circles the term “union” is used, but what does it mean?  “Union” expresses a “right now” reality for all who believe in Jesus.  We all have “union” or are “in union” with God.  But we may not know it - yet.

The idea of not “knowing” your union and then moving toward that inner knowing is what I am talking about.  The discussion must start with how you perceive yourself at this moment.  That might be the key to how you perceive yourself tomorrow.  There are three very distinct perceptions.  The best scriptural reference I know, and, refer to often, is found in I John 2.12-13:  “I write unto you, little children, because your sins are forgiven you for his name's sake. I write unto you, fathers, because ye have known him that is from the beginning. I write unto you, young men, because ye have overcome the wicked one. I write unto you, little children, because ye have known the Father.“

John refers to three categories:  Children, Young Men and Fathers.  To be clear there are not three categories of believers.  In fact, the reality is that we are all Fathers – we just don’t all know it.  But when we do - we know our “union”.  You always are in union with God, but you might not be fully aware of it at this moment.  But, there are eternal reasons and meaning for each category.

The Meaning of Union II

4 June 2013 at 17:33

The category you find yourself in is merely your perception of yourself.  Of course we all have all sorts of perceptions and thoughts, but these are the basic three – Children, Young Men and Father - at least as far as John saw it.

Now, what does “category” or “perception” mean?  “Children” see themselves in a childlike relationship with God.  Generally speaking that person is relatively new to the faith.  That person might have had a dramatic conversion experience.  God, who was far off, is now near and He is kind and loving and basically, “Daddy”.  It’s a sweet time especially for those who really need a Daddy.  However, the Child is basically a “taker” and not a “giver”.

In the Child stage “forgiveness of sin” is big – for many - really big.  I say that because there are many that come to faith in Jesus with a checkered past.  Their life gets a complete makeover upon faith in Jesus.  So, knowing the burden and the penalty of sin is lifted and that you have eternal life because of the vicarious death of the Savior, life is wonderful and changing, perhaps rapidly.

The reality is that you’re not going to stay a Child forever.  Some try, but inevitably all will move on.

The Meaning of Union III

5 June 2013 at 17:51

I want to mention my thought on the use of gender terminology in the Bible.  Gender is not relevant.  Young “men” are also young "women".  Fathers are also “mothers”.  God, while normally referred to as Father, is also Mother.  In that regard there could be no human or animal mothers, with all the characteristics normally ascribed to mothers, unless those characteristics came from God and were in fact part of the expression of His Person.

So, we have laid out three basic categories – Children, Young Men and Fathers.  Let’s talk more about Children.  Most, new to Christianity, approach it as one would approach anything new – get with the program - find out what you can - associate with others.  Advice is freely given by those more “experienced”. 

Up until salvation God is seen as far off.  He appears to be a separate entity from me.  We seem to exist in the same universe, but He is “up” in heaven and I am “down” here on earth.  But, after salvation - we now know Him, personally, intuitively, and before we did not.  But basically He still appears to be “outside” or “separate” from us.  Christianity is now seen as a thing to be learned, program to do – Bible to memorize, quiet times to have, church to join and go to, bible studies to attend.    It can all get very complicated very quickly.  It did for me.

The Meaning of Union IV

6 June 2013 at 18:31

I became a believer in Jesus at 18 years of age.  I went from being a practicing Jew to getting baptized and confirmed in the Roman Catholic Church at Sacred Heart University in Bridgeport, Connecticut. Next, I was baptized Southern Baptist at James Avenue Baptist Church in Fort Worth, Texas. Then, after learning about commune living at the Episcopal Church of the Redeemer in Houston, Texas, I attended Bill Gothard’s Institute in Basic Youth Conflicts. And finally, got the "Holy Ghost” complete with my own prayer language. All before the age of 20; not bad for a Jewish kid from New York.

I was a mess.

What happened?   What happened to the simplicity of “Daddy”...my sins are forgiven... and I’m going to heaven?  Well, what happened was my Child stage of Christianity was over and I commenced life as a Young Man.  While my life history may be different than yours, we all have the same feelings, emotions and psychology regarding our progression from Children to Young Men and on to Fatherhood.  However, before jumping into the “Young Man” discussion, it is crucial to understand what Christian “growth” means and to review some basics.

The Meaning of Union V

8 June 2013 at 04:05

Consider a human embryo.  Upon conception that human has the genetic potential for all he or she will ever be.  While the human will grow from a microscopic size to a full grown size – the fertilized egg is complete [genetically speaking].  That embryo will never become more of a human being or a better human being.  In the very same sense the “child” Christian – while new in the faith – is a complete Christian.  In fact, better still, a complete person.  The Child will never become more of a Christian or a better person.  The Child will never be closer to God or have more of Him.  The Christian is 100% complete at salvation.

Now, you would never ever say that because a human being is young or small, that somehow they are not a complete person.  Physical growth does not affect the reality of who a human, or a person, is.   The confusing point is that as Christians we equate Christian growth with getting closer to God by learning more about Him or living a more ethical or moral existence – doing what “Jesus would do” – becoming more “Christ-like”.  This is primarily because in the “Child” and “Young Man” stages, God is still perceived as external or a separate Being – which is a misconception – as He is neither external or separate.

You must thoroughly understand the error of seeing yourself as a participant in a self-improvement program – called Christianity – where you equate growth with gaining knowledge and becoming powerful.

The Meaning of Union VI

9 June 2013 at 01:59

Reality does not get any more basic than the fact that God chose to deem the entire creation lost - not some more than others – just all lost. All need forgiveness – all need a Savior.  What He did at that point did not depend upon a human – with the exception of One – Jesus Christ.  The crucifixion is the one and final sacrifice needed to bring the entire creation to redemption.   And of course, the crucifixion is not just a historical event, but rather eternal.

So, when a person avails their self to the free gift of redemption, a very common prayer used by many upon their first exercise of faith is, “Come into my heart, Lord Jesus”.  Well, that’s actually and precisely what happens.  Why would anyone doubt that?  His Spirit is now joined to your spirit.  His Heart and your heart are one.  An eternal, Holy Union of God to man is created upon that exercise of faith.  It does not get “better” or “more”.  It simply is.  We should be crystal clear on that point.  It really doesn’t get any better.  Union is not a relationship that can be measured.  It simply is. What we are really talking about is “do I know it?”  And the reality is that a Child or Young Man really cannot know their union.  The union is real, but it simply is not for the Child or Young Man to fathom – not at the moment.

The Meaning of Union VII

10 June 2013 at 22:06

So basically, in a flash, you go from lost to found – sinner to saint.  There are no better or worse sinners.  By the same token there are no better or worse saints.  You either are or you are not.  So, if there actually is such a thing as “Christian growth”, it is only in the human understanding not in the reality. 

Christian growth is all about understanding who you are – not becoming who you are.  At the moment of salvation His Spirit formed a union with your spirit.  Despite that truth, through the eyes of a Child or a Young Man, He can still seem distant and a distinct Being.

We now enter the Young Man stage.  Remember how John describes the Young Man:   “… I write unto you, young men, because ye have overcome the wicked one….  I have written unto you, young men, because ye are strong, and the word of God abideth in you, and ye have overcome the wicked one.” I John 2.12-14

Young Man emphasis is strength, knowledge of the written word, and power to overcome evil.   Young Man is a necessary stage, but it is just that – a “stage”, not a place to remain.

The Meaning of Union VIII

11 June 2013 at 17:47

You must thoroughly understand the error of seeing yourself as a participant in a self-improvement program – called Christianity – where you equate growth with gaining knowledge and becoming powerful.  For a time you must think it is all “about you” – you are strong – you know the bible – you know how to fight satan – you – you – you.  But this stage must end, and it will, at the end of your rope.  You’ve done that once – come to the end of your rope.  You stopped rationalizing, theorizing and avoiding the truth.  You did exercise that mustard seed of faith and commenced your relationship with the King of the Universe.

Now, as a Young Man you will come to the end of your rope again.  The Young Man will attempt to perfect his Christianity – not knowing it is already perfect.  The Young Man will work very hard at Christianity and may spend many years doing just that.  So, what is the “plan”?   The Young Man approaches Christianity as a religion – a self-improvement religion.  He busies himself memorizing scripture, which is a good thing really, fighting the devil and being proud of how strong he thinks he is.  The Young Man will pray “God fill this place with your Spirit” – or – “God give me the strength, or wisdom or faith or whatever – God give me something so I can do [whatever]”.