THE LORD IS MY SHEPHERD - PART 271

For the Son of God was manifested in the flesh in appearance as one of Adam’s prone to sin descendants. However, Jesus was not one of Adam’s prone to sin descendants. Indeed, JESUS is the Son that was to be born into the world as the Saviour of all men. As it is written in the scriptures, "Unto you there is born this day a Saviour, who is the Christ and Lord." Isaiah declared that JESUS' descriptive titles/names would be called Wonderful, Counsellor, the Mighty God, the Everlasting Father and the Prince of Peace.

JESUS, being the One Holy Spirit who by His Wisdom/Word created all things. JESUS, the very same God who purposed by the counsel of His own will even before a visible creation existed. It was He who decided that He was now going to show Himself in form. And when viewed in form He was no less God than He was prior to showing Himself in form.

God did not all of a sudden become another person. For it is written that He being now in the form of God, He thought it not robbery to be equal with God. ONE GOD.

God created man of the earth, fashioned of earth, in the likeness of God’s spiritual form. Adam being declared as a Son of God in likeness only. God breathed into Adam and Adam became a living soul.

Adam sinned by disobedience, and so stunted God’s plan for man. The Holy Spirit of God provided of Himself two SEEDS of an entirely different blood line, and not that which was Adam’s seed blood line. In so doing God provided a means whereby fallen mankind could be reinstated by redemption to the exact place of Adam’s disobedience.

This is why man once again has to decide to obey God or to repeat Adam’s disobedience. It is in this perspective that
men and women are at the crossroads. DECISION time. Others upon hearing these redemptive words cried out to God’s messengers in Acts 2.

What must we do? the people asked. The messengers told them what they must do. As we read in the scriptures, 3000 people believed, repented of their sin and obediently were baptised in water, being buried symbolically into the grave with JESUS. They by the hand of God are cleansed from ALL sin,

They, upon rising up from out the watery grave have become new persons. Justified. Righteous. Sons and daughters of God. A new creation after the Image of the Second Adam JESUS, from henceforth the working plan of God progresses within them. The Holy Spirit now indwelling. The very same Holy Spirit that was in the man JESUS, is now given to us as a free gift. Our inheritance - for now we are the body of the Christ.

Yes, God as a son Fathered us in His death. We are all the children of God through the operation of faith in what God has done on our behalf when He as a Son laid down His life. For to all those who believe on the finished work of God upon the Cross there is no condemnation.

Here is how the scripture portrays God’s plan of redemption. That after JESUS died and rose from the grave, He JESUS ascended into Heaven and sat down. By the expression of JESUS sitting down, means, that the work of man’s redemption is complete. The completed work of redemption needs not that we must add something to this work, for the work of God is COMPLETE.

Salvation was fully accomplished by the right hand of God never to be repeated again. This is why our redemption is complete. PEACE BE!

THE LORD IS MY SHEPHERD - PART 270

For You will not suffer Your Holy One to see corruption.

The wages of sin is death. In the eyes of God, there is no distinction between a small sin and sin that is criminal. Indeed, sin is sin. In the beginning, Adam disobeyed God’s Word and as a consequence we all inherit the wage or penalty resulting from Adam‘s disobedience. Prior to Adam’s disobedience in the Garden of Eden, Adam was perfect. However, following Adam's willingness to go his own way, the dark cloud of sin fell over Adam. It did so, even contaminating Adam’s seed. Since we are of Adam’s seed, we also bear the fruit of Adam’s transgression.

Therefore, it may seem like we are in a boxed-in situation, incapable of escape. Because of this, we resort to dressing up sin so that it no longer appears as sin. In today's world, we call it fashionable sin.

In the Garden, God said to Adam, "What have you done?" It was here that humankind inherited a world full of pollution, eternal death and separation from God. It was also within this context that we are able to recognize that we are lost and blind. As the cliche states, when the blind lead the blind, things do not get better.

The Lord said, "My people perish for lack of knowledge." (Hosea 4:6)

But God, whose earthy image we are by creation, has said that He is not willing that any of His creation should perish. Instead, God devised a plan. God's plan was for He Himself to clothe Himself in flesh and through/by the sacrifice of His own flesh body, purchase redemption on man’s behalf. God purchased our freedom and presented our freedom to us as a gift. Fully paid!

To top it all, God in the form of a Son bequeathed all of His rightful inheritance to us. In short, He became as one of us so that we could be clothed in His righteousness. How can this be? The scriptures state that He the unjust and unrighteous would become just, and I the unrighteous will now be classified as being righteous.

In this context, God as a Son won the battle for all the whosoever's seeking salvation. Indeed, God put Himself in the place of men and women.

JESUS, who is God Himself as a Son willingly laid down His prone to sin flesh body, paying the debt of sin. Because of one man’s sin death fell on all men. So by the death of one righteous man the penalty is dismissed (no double jeopardy within God's plan of salvation). And we are FREE.

Death was the penalty. Corruption was not demanded. The first Adam was made of the earth whereas the second Adam was the SEED of the holy Spirit of God. The embryo was of the Spirit of God. The bones and blood of the embryo having no sin remained unharmed and intact upon the Cross.

Whereas, the flesh which was prone to sin material was provided by Mary, (she being one of the first Adam’s descendants), now willingly served in the role as /of a surrogate mother.

According to the scriptures, JESUS, being put to death in the flesh, was alive in Spirit and similarly quickened by the power of His Spirit. He had said, "Destroy this body (temple) and in three days I will raise it up again." Yes indeed we killed His flesh body, but not the life of His Spirit within!

We at conception are seeded as a natural earthly body. The genealogy of Adam’s seed. When we are to be raised again as a result of salvation, we are not raised in natural bodies. We are raised in a spiritual body to be just like the Second Adam JESUS, for we are members of His body, of His bones and His flesh!

Thus, herein, close to being saved is not sufficient. One has to believe on Jesus Christ as the Saviour of the world, and desire that He be both Lord and Christ in your life. Then be water baptized by immersion, in the Name of the Lord Jesus Christ as performed on the day of Pentecost so that the first 3,000 souls could find redemption. (Acts 2:38; Romans 6:3-4)

And don't forget to study His Word daily -- your lifeline which gives eyes to your soul for the rest of the world which are still seeking the gospel truth. PEACE BE !

THE LORD IS MY SHEPHERD - PART 269

The Lord will not suffer His Holy One to see corruption!

Adam’s disobedience seemingly delayed the ultimate plan of God for man's destiny. However, that would possibly be man's reasoning. But in actuality, it separated the wheat from the tares, for being tempted and tried as a result of our prone to sin fallen nature, we are now at least capable of making choices.

We attend schools that are supposed to equip us with tools that allow us to function effectively in society. Unfortunately, some of us fall through the cracks and launch out into life acquiring our education through the “School of hard knocks." Often, from this school we never really graduate but we do earn a down to earth education.

The second school is the “School of Kneeology.” You ask what kind of school is that? Please listen carefully. Before you dig the hole you are in deeper,(resulting from an uphill- downhill- roller coaster ride) I have good news to share.

You are a Son of God. Yes, maybe even a messed up Son of God but you are a Son of God nevertheless. In desperation, tears falling like a river, call upon the name of JESUS. Just call on the God who loves you and you will be delivered! That is the school of kneeology - a place where anyone who attends can graduate with Honours.

Indeed, God loves His creation. So much does God love us that He alone took our debt of sin upon Himself that we the captors of sin, sickness, and disillusionments could obtain salvation. You are the works of His hands and within you is His breath. Use that breath now to ask God into your life. Wrap your breath around your tongue and ask the Lord Jesus to save you.

Ask the Saviour to help you and comfort, strengthen and keep you. Yes, He is Willing to save you. He will carry you through. Nothing shall separate us from the Love of God!

THE LORD IS MY SHEPHERD - PART 268

So the Wisdom / Word was veiled in flesh and dwelt among us, and we beheld His glory as of the glory of the Only Begotten of His Father full of grace and truth. Jesus was conceived of and by God’s own Holy Spirit full of grace and truth! The one God whose form, we are earthly created form, imaging God’s form.

The only God who brought all that is seen and unseen into visible created form determined that if His plan is to be ongoing, then redemption bringing forth salvation need be purchased. Inasmuch as He searched for a righteous person, it was without success. Therefore, He who knew no sin, became sin for us.

God, in whose earthly image we are formed, containing within us His breath of life decided that even as we His earthly creation were partakers of flesh and blood, that now He also Himself likewise would take part of the same. From God's perspective, if redemption were ever to be provided, then the only solution left, was that He Himself would descend from heaven making Himself of no reputation and taking upon Himself the form of a servant. Therefore, He made Himself a body in the likeness of men and when found in this fashion as a man, He would humble Himself and become obedient unto death even the death of the cross!

Yes! That is immeasurable love. The song writer penned it superbly in the words of the chorus "Down from His Glory - ever living story - My God and Saviour came - And JESUS was his Name. Born in a manger - To His own a stranger - A man of sorrows tears and agony."

The Chorus … Oh, how I Love Him - How I adore Him - He’s my breath - my sunshine - My all in All - The Great Creator became my Saviour - and ALL GOD'S FULNESS DWELLETH IN HIM!

JESUS the promised SEED of blessing to all nations -- including Jew or Gentile --because in the eyes of God there were none who were righteous -- no not one! But Jesus the Christ died for all that were under the condemnation of death.

As such, the old Covenant no longer has validity. In fact, it becomes an obstruction to simple faith! God was in Christ reconciling the world to Himself. Jesus is the life of God Himself as a Son. His sacrificial death grants to all those who only deserve unmerited favour. For salvation is not of works. Rather, salvation was purchased for man at no cost to man.

Even supposing that that man knew nothing of the old covenant of law, a man needs only to look at JESUS the tree of Life to receive life. Realizing that the one who hung there on the cross was the shell of God Himself as a Son, laying down His life as the only means of redemption and salvation.

You are not under law. What does the New Testament say? Where there is love there ought to be no law for in JESUS dwells the law of the Spirit of Life, and that Law, CANCELLED FOREVER the law of sin and death!

Come to JESUS just as you are -- where you are. Peace be!

THE LORD IS MY SHEPHERD - PART 267

For God had so much love for the world that He gave His ONLY BEGOTTEN SON that WHOSOEVER believes and trusts in and upon Him should not be lost, but that they shall have everlasting life. For God did not send His Son into the world to judge, condemn or pass judgement upon the world but rather that the world through Him might find in Him salvation! This paraphrased version of the scriptures taken from John 3.

The section we will focus on here is the part that states, He who believes upon Him is not condemned, but they that do not believe in Him, through their unbelief are already condemned of God. Why? Because they have not believed in the Name of the Only Begotten Son of God (JESUS the Christ).

The grounds for their condemnation is this. The Light of God’s way has come into the world, but men loved and preferred darkness rather than God's light. Often it is because their deeds or works are evil and wicked. Indeed, every willing or intentional wrongdoer hates the light. They will not come to the light lest their actions and deeds be exposed. So instead they steer clear of the light lest their deeds should be reproved.

Conversely, those that love the truth respond positively to the light and as a consequence, their works may be seen. The best part is that their deeds and similar good works are solely motivated through believing faith with expectancy in God.

Now we continue from 266 .. . Who being in the form of God thought it not robbery to be equal with God, for God and form are the same One God. They are not two persons. Man was created in the earthly image of this one God and in earthy fashion presented God’s spiritual form. Man had God's breath within, for God had breathed into man the breath of Life, resulting in man becoming a living soul. (For the body without the spirit is dead )

Further, God is the "I AM" of all things. The Father of all. The source. It is in Him that we live and move and have our being. In other words, we are the magnificent works of God’s hands, a created masterpiece. God having set man over the works of His own hands, caused men to say, "What is man that you Lord have set him over the very works of Your hands crowning him with glory and honour?"

Sounds too good to be true? Nevertheless, in this case it is true and likewise salvation is still God’s ultimate plan for man. Even though admittedly, that plan was OOPED when satan entered into the Garden and Adam and Eve were trumped. Remember Genesis? When God asked, “Adam what have you done?”

Mankind could not reverse his downgraded situation. The consequence of becoming spiritually exiled from God, as a result of Adam's fall in the garden. But God is Love and God love is! More to come. PEACE BE.

THE LORD IS MY SHEPHERD - PART 266

The book of Philippians expands on the message within earlier posts. In part, the scriptures reveal the 'who, being in the form of God thought it not robbery to be equal with God. But He made Himself of no reputation and took upon Himself the form of a servant. In so doing, He was made in the likeness of men and being found in fashion as a man, He humbled Himself and became obedient unto death even the death of the cross.'

Wherefore, God has highly exalted Him and given Him a name. It is this name that the scriptures state is above every other name. It is upon hearing the name of JESUS that the scriptures state that every knee should bow. Indeed, every tongue should confess that JESUS the Christ IS LORD -- to the glory of God forever.

God is also, according to the scriptures, ONE SPIRIT. God upon counselling with Himself determined that He was going to show Himself in form. And not only was He going to shown Himself in form spiritually but He was also become an earthly image of His spiritual form. In creation, God will display His spiritual power and majesty.

So God, who is one spirit steps out in form. Not created but rather Himself in spiritual form. The very same God. No greater and no lesser the same one God (never seen afore) reveals Himself to mankind. The unseen is now seen. God in form coming forth from His spiritual innermost being. Not another person but the innermost being of God coming forth. God in form. Not another person as is propagated by so many church fathers.

When God created man, the image created was an earthly created image of the spiritual form of God. God breathing into man so that man now becomes a living soul. But as we know from Genesis, the first book of the Bible, Adam disobeys God's instructions. As a consequence, Adam’s disobedience results in Adam’s expulsion from the Garden. God had said that the soul that sins shall surely die. This explains why death now encompasses Adam and his seed.

In reality, there was no escaping the sentence of death pronounced. Everyone has, at one time or another, an appointment with death. Still, God said to Adam, "What have you done?" The plan of God for His creation appears to have been stymied.

But the Love of God toward His creation is far greater than our tongue or penmanship can grasp, or for that matter ever tell. FOR GOD SO LOVED THE WORLD!

THE LORD IS MY SHEPHERD - PART 265

JESUS put to death in the flesh was made alive again or quickened by the Holy Spirit. For the holy Spirit would not permit His holy child -- His only begotten Son to see corruption. Further, JESUS' sacrificial death paid in full the requirements necessary to obtain complete redemption. His flesh body died as payment in full. And, as we know, corruption was not one of the required necessary demands.

So we read that God glorified His Son JESUS, declaring to one and all that this SAME JESUS (that Adam’s fallen race crucified) IS BOTH LORD and CHRIST. JESUS is the sole head of the church (comprised of redeemed believers) which He purchased through the sacrifice of His sinless life. He offered His own life on their behalf so that they in turn should become His bones and His flesh and His body.

As the scriptures reveal, He is the Head of this redeemed body! As the Head, He directs this redeemed body. The Spirit of JESUS indwelling His redeemed body continues to manifest to the world plan of God.

The church, composing of redeemed believers are each members of this one body. Each member is set in place and gifted according to the will of God. Indeed, God divides to each member gifts as it has pleases Him. The redeemed body being jointly and fitly framed together that their should be no schisms. Many members we are and yet we are all one body in which the Lord is pleased to dwell. The redeemed body which is the body of Christ has become now, a habitation of God’s Spirit. In this body God is pleased to dwell. A Holy Temple.

For in this one body there exists no difference between male and female, bondmen or freemen, Jew nor Gentile. For we are all one in JESUS, who by the sacrifice of Himself purchased redemption for all who believe! All those people who have, by God’s Grace been made partakers of free redemption leading to what is referred to as being born again or born of God. Like JESUS spoke of in the scriptures. A man must be born again to enter into the Kingdom of God. In fact, those who are not born again cannot even see the Kingdom of God. Instead, their eyes are blinded by false religious teachings.

But Jesus is the Way, the Truth and the Life. To obtain God's gift of salvation, it is necessary that you call upon His Name JESUS. The first 3000 persons receiving the first message of Christian salvation ever preached to man did as they were bid to do. Read Acts 2 for more details. The good new is that they repented and were baptized into the Name of JESUS for the remission of sin. In all these years, God has not withdrawn that message. It is the same message now.

Today is the day of salvation! Why tarry? Arise and be baptized wash away your sin whilst you are calling upon the Name of the LORD JESUS. Then shall you receive the promised gift of the Holy Spirit of God. Peace to all in JESUS.

THE LORD IS MY SHEPHERD - PART 264

And of His Spirit, the fruit of the promised SEED, have all believers in the promised SEED of God received. God planned and put in motion all things, as predetermined by the counsel of His own will. Therefore, this plan is entirely God’s plan.

No one was His counsellor. Rather, God purposefully prepared Himself a body in which God could appear as a Son brought forth from a willing surrogate mother named Mary. This meant that Mary herself lived her life in a prone to sin body inasmuch as she also was one of Adam’s fallen race.

In Jesus then, Jesus being the Son of God, a new bloodline began. A bloodline that did not descend from Adam. Within this new bloodline, JESUS is the SEED of the Spirit of God. The embryo, the bones, and the blood, were of the Spirit of God. Similarly, the embryo was clothed with Adamic prone to sin flesh whilst in the womb of His surrogate mother Mary.

JESUS, whilst in that body was tempted, and tried in all points - just like as we are - but without succumbing to sin. In other words, if man were ever to be redeemed, it would require a sinless man willing to die. For it is written in the scriptures that the wages of sin is eternal death.

But in deciding the plan of salvation, God searched and concluded that there was no man found that was holy, righteous, or undefiled. Therefore, it is written, a body have you prepared me. For God so loved the world that He gave His ONLY Begotten Son to die at Calvary so that men and women could be free.

And looking back, this plan of salvation is exactly what God has done. For JESUS was conceived of the holy Spirit of God. Therefore, He who was brought forth was God in the flesh. Pure, holy, undefiled, and separate from sinners. It was God who purposed to lay down His sinless life. God Himself as a Son becoming the only means of eternal salvation. By the sacrifice of His life, we in turn could be called sons and daughters of God.

Therefore, we cannot nor ought we to dismiss the Word/Wisdom of God. Instead, we must be born again. We ought to no longer to linger embrace another SEED. Instead, arise and be baptized. Wash away your sin whilst you are calling upon the name of our great God and only Saviour JESUS the Christ! Acts 2:37-42. God bless!

THE LORD IS MY SHEPHERD - PART 263

The SEED of promised blessing is to be enjoyed in JESUS the Christ. The SEED being JESUS the Christ and being clearly presented by Paul in Galatians. Paul was inspired by the Spirit of God and as a consequence, revealed the afore-hid mysteries of God. These are the same mysteries that were hid from ages past, now being revealed by God for the edification of His Redeemed body! (The Church)

As the scriptures state, there is only one body and only one Spirit. The Church (being the redeemed believers take their place as members in the body of JESUS (the Christ) which body is the temple. The only temple, according to the scriptures in which the Spirit of God is pleased to dwell.

For believers having been baptized into JESUS the Christ have put on JESUS (Christ!). For in JESUS the Christ is the righteousness of God revealed. When JESUS was baptized in water by John the baptist, John said to JESUS, "It is me that needs to be baptized by you and here you are coming to me." JESUS replied to John stating, “It becomes us to fulfill all righteousness." This is why JESUS stepped into the water and was subsequently baptized by John.

John was a man sent of God as a forerunner to JESUS. Front page news in those days. John was sent of God and JESUS being the WORD/ WISDOM of God was veiled in flesh as one of Adam’s fallen offspring. JESUS as a man obediently obeyed God’s command and by so doing proclaimed the righteousness of God.

John proclaimed that JESUS was the Lamb of God. And that God Himself provided the sacrificial lamb. Indeed, there was to be no other sacrifice for sin. God is preparing to sacrifice His own body. Imagine, the same God who created us loved us so much that He was willing to sacrifice His body. Once and only once. And in so doing, ensured that no other sacrifice was needed. That is right, There is no more sacrificial offering for sin. Our salvation was PAID IN FULL.

The church then (being the redeemed believers purchased back to God as a result of God laying down His own life as a Son) now being Fathered by God in a Son’s body. It was that body prone to sin yet found sinless that was sacrificed and cursed by God.

God Himself as a Son (lamb) bore our sins in His own body crucified on a tree. (JESUS being the tree of life). Look to Me all you people for I Am God and beside Me there is no Saviour.

As many as received JESUS, to them JESUS gave power(or the right) to become the sons of God. It is by the Grace of God that we are redeemed and delivered from the bondage of sin. We are not saved by works. For if works were sufficient to deliver man from sin then there was no need for the lamb of God to be sacrificed.

But JESUS is the Shepherd of God’s sheep. All who believe and follow in His Words of Wisdom shall not walk in darkness, for JESUS is the Light that lightens.

Further, JESUS died the just for the unjust. The Spirit of God having laid upon His Son the iniquity of all. Herein, perceive we the Love of God. For in that one sacrifice, we ought to clearly see that God has went to unbelievable lengths to rescue us. To save us. To walk with us. There is therefore no condemnation to all those who believe! However, the wrath of God hangs over others who shun this one way of salvation!

May God richly bless with peace! Stand in the offering plate.

THE LORD IS MY SHEPHERD - PART 262

The message today is that the same God who made the world was in the world. Further, the same "He that was in the world" delivered to us the very Wisdom of God in Word, spoken audibly in a tongue of understanding. As we recognize from the scriptures, sometimes the voice spoke in parables. Many times, at least initially, we found it difficult to understanding the meaning of parables. However, when He saw that we stumbled in comprehension, then He expounded upon the hidden truths. The hidden treasures to those who believed on Him. Why? For it was and is our Father's good pleasure to give us the Kingdom of Heaven and all therein.

But the important point to note here is that He did not as in ages past send messengers to deliver the message of salvation. Rather, He came Himself preaching to everyone who listened, sowing Words of Life. As a consequence, those who take the time to digest and reflect upon His Life Words are immediately transformed in thought to a different level. Jesus said it this way. If we hunger and thirst after righteousness, sureley we shall be filled.

In other words, Jesus did not pass by on the other side of the road. That was not the purpose of His mission. His purpose was to seek and to save those which were lost - indeed, you and I - us! Often, Jesus would say, "My Sheep hear my voice, and they follow me."

Conversely, the sheep will not follow the voice of a hired person or institutions whereby religious formality was (or is) rampant. Jesus' salvation message was clear. He said, "Come to Me and rest." He did not send us around the SINAI mountain, going in endless circles.

JESUS simply said, "Come to Me, and I Will Give You Rest." And the result? We heard the gospel message and we believed. We were immediately impacted with power - an invisible tangible substance - and we tasted so to speak of the power of the Word of God. We entered into a New World whilst we were and are still in this world.

The Kingdom of God was now in us. For surely the words and wisdom that He spoke was the language of the Kingdom of God. The Words spoken to us were not words of condemnation but rather words urging us to reach out in faith to Him. In so doing, we, by the Grace of God become reconciled to Him alone!

Still, it is important to remember that we did not roll out the red carpet for Jesus. Neither did we bed Him in luxury hotels. We did not wine and dine Him which is why He Himself said, "Foxes have holes, the birds of the air have nests, but I have not a place to lay down my head." (Come in to my heart Lord JESUS!)

We are the body of the Christ named JESUS, who on our behalf sacrificed His Life forever as a Son so that we, from henceforth, can be called the Sons of God. There is only One body and there is only One Spirit. Peace be upon the redeemed Israel of God who are adopted into the family of God and those who obediently respond positively to Acts chapter 2.

THE LORD IS MY SHEPHERD - PART 261

The tongue being a small member of our bodies, is capable of creating unbelievable damage. Indeed, with the tongue, we can bless people or conversely, with the same tongue we can curse. The scriptures phrase this dual perspective this way. The scriptures declare that from a well of water one ought not to receive "sweet and bitter" water at the same time. However, it would appear that even though this saying is trustworthy and enlightening, ironically, it is not often applied to the well of the tongue.

Further, all sorts of tongues exist. The Bible alludes to this in the New Testament. There are tongues of men and tongues of angels, and even unknown tongues. Each tongue is capable of rendering the most abundant thoughts of our indwelling spirit. Still, we recognize that our innermost spirit can be deceitful and desperately wicked. In this context, Satan being the father of all lies influenced mankind since man's expulsion from the Garden of Eden. There, Satan voiced and displayed his cunningly devised ways.

But when JESUS went to be baptised by John the(baptist), it is recorded that John had received a vision. Therein, it was revealled to him that when John should see the Holy Spirit of God descend upon an individual in the form of a dove, then would John know that this is the one who would baptize believing individuals with the Holy Spirit.

Indeed, the vision was established in JESUS causing John to declare ... "Behold the Lamb of God!" God Himself as a Son to become a sacrificial offering. This is why the scriptures are so specific. John had seen a vision accompanied with an audible voice and yet understood without his ears. Would that we all have ears to hear!

The scriptures go further. On the day of Pentecost, a mighty wind was heard, filling the auditorium where 120 believers were assembled. Suddenly, the 120 believers started to speak in tongues described as "tongues like a fire." In the process of speaking with Holy Spirit tongues, it is recorded in the scriptures that the Holy Spirit tongues sat upon them.

Jesus afore said that the apostles were to stay in Jerusalem until they would be endued with a higher power. Only then, after being endued with this higher power (the Spirit of Jesus) would they become His Witnesses to the uttermost parts of the earth.

Upon that day of Pentecost the church(which is the now body of JESUS the Christ) was purchased and reconciled to God through God Himself -- the same God who willingly sacrificed His own body. This is an incomprehensible thought when one considers the magnitude of God's sacrifice - that He as a son would become cursed so that we might have eternal life. Or, that we the guilty should appear now before Him as Himself (for we are in Christ). He Himself, as a Son, bequeathed all things to us. All things that were rightfully His should now be ours. Isn't this the miracle that is found in the scriptures? Therefore when He speaks we should listen. Likewise, when we pray He hears.

He hears even though we are many members for we are the body of JESUS the Christ. It is His Spirit that we have all received. We worship our Father the Lord JESUS the Christ, for truly JESUS fathered us in His death.

SEEDED through faith to believe in Him, we enter into the family of God. We all bear the name of JESUS! We worship God the eternal Spirit who became our Father. For TRULY God was in Christ, and now we are His temple. In this temple is He pleased to dwell. And, as a consequence, we are a habitation of the Spirit of God! Peace to all who are in Jesus!

THE LORD IS MY SHEPHERD - PART 260

The SEED is not of many or from multiple persons. Indeed, the scriptural references in Galatians defines the SEED as representative of only one person. That one person referred to here is none other than the Christ, who is the child of the Spirit of the one Holy God. Yes, the same God who SEEDED the promised SEEDS to Eve and to Abraham.

The reason for clarifying this point is that there are religious institutions who believe in what is called the immaculate conception. These churches believe this even though Mary was not included, according to the scriptures, in the conception. Rather Mary was, by her consent to become a willing surrogate.

The genealogy as recorded in Matthew and Luke makes no reference to Mary’s natural seed. The scriptures clearly outline to Mary that the embryo which is conceived within her was of the Holy Spirit. Further, as we have previously shown, Mary consented to be a surrogate.

As a consequence of Mary’s willing submission, believers should most certainly acknowledge that Mary was blessed - and blessed as well among women. However, Mary was not blessed above women. This is a key distinction. Neither, was Mary in the scriptures hailed as being the mother of God.

For as we read in the scriptures, the angel declared to Mary that the holy thing that shall come forth from her shall be called the Son of God. So the Wisdom of God counsel now appeared in fashion as a man. Why is this? Because only God could reveal His (formerly) hidden plan of Wisdom.

This is why we required God Himself as a Son to speak. The Word had to be veiled in flesh so that we might be able to hear and understand the unveiling (Wisdom) of the mystery of God. For the time of these events were spoken of in the scriptures as being the fullness of time.

At that time, JESUS was brought forth. Jesus - who is Himself the Wisdom of God. For it is written that JESUS is the Wisdom of God and similarly that JESUS is the Glory of God. Therefore, JESUS is the Word of God, who also is the same Wisdom of God.

But we without hearing in Word the revealing of the Wisdom of God would still be without understanding. But JESUS as flesh is the living manifestation of the Wisdom of God. Let us see and understand what the scriptures are stating here. One without the other would be like a bird without wings. Where would we be then?

Still, when JESUS spoke, there was something distinctive about His presence. JESUS did not speak like the scribes and the Pharisees. There is a reason for this. That is, JESUS is not only the Wisdom and Glory of God but JESUS is the Power of God too.

For again it is written that His Words were with power. Yes, indeed, His Words were with power. When JESUS' Words of Wisdom and power impacts a person, something happens. Something wonderful happens. The songwriter penned this experience as "oh, for a thousand tongues to sing, To express my tongue indeed would be the pen of a ready writer, I am come that you might have LIFE, a more abundant life." PEACE BE!

THE LORD IS MY SHEPHERD - PART 259

A sower went out to sow, and as he sowed some of the seeds fell. The sower of the Word (or the wisdom of God that is God Himself) sowed seeds that was His own Word. This makes sense when we read it within a scriptural context.

In Genesis and John, for example, the scriptures say that in the beginning was the Word - the Wisdom and the Word - and this Wisdom was with God and the Word/Wisdom was God. The very same Word/Wisdom that was with God was veiled in flesh and we beheld His glory.

For the Word/Wisdom of God is now being revealed in fleshly form. As alluded to earlier, this Word/Wisdom of God is being revealed in prone to sin flesh even as Adam was. After Adam and Eve's banishment from the Garden of Eden, the Sower’s flesh that was capable of being tempted in all points like as we humans are did not succumb to sin. Neither in thought, word or in deed.

The Sower of the Word /Wisdom was clothed in flesh as a man. For the Sower of the Word/Wisdom (in form) Himself was the only (singular) SEED of God’s holy Spirit. At birth, we see a child to be named JESUS with an applied descriptive title declaring that He was the SON of God. For indeed He was.

As it is written, God who is Spirit was manifest in the flesh as a Son. Our human outer shell - like all seeds - is visibly only a shell whilst the inner life is spirit. How does the scriptures describe this outer shell. For the body without the spirit is dead.

However, in JESUS did dwell all the fullness of the invisible God who is Spirit now embodied in the flesh. This is the embodiment of the Spirit of God as a Son capable now of being seen and handled and heard. We can now view and hear the purpose of God’s visitation in form as a Son (Word/Wisdom) sowing a Word/Wisdom message in total contrast to that which was then presently preached (sowed).

God is personally a Sower, sowing His Word / Wisdom as a SEED. In this perspective, God was delivering to man His unchanging Word/Wisdom. Indeed, God’s life giving Word / Wisdom was veiled in flesh and dwelt among us.

We realize that without the word it would be impossible for men and women to even theorize. Why? Because the entrance of word/wisdom into our minds brings forth enlightenment. The same word/wisdom gives understanding, and with all our learning we ought to endeavour to get understanding.

How does this happen? God is the source (Sower) of all Word / Wisdom, for the power of the Word/Wisdom is mightier than even the sword. Whether the Word is spoken, written or in song, it remains mightier than the sword. The Word /wisdom is the expression of the indwelling life of the spirit for we are spirit beings, our carcase in action displays what is the determination of our indwelling spirit.

As a result of Adam’s disobedience, Adam directed his carcase to do that which God advised him not to do - that is, adhere to the Sower’s instructions. But when Adam didn't listen, we lost our way too, stepping onto a road of self destruction. That road is like a dead end road whose builder and making was not God‘s will.

But as we'll read in the days to come, there is a better way ...

Jesus Is The Promised Seed - PART 258

JESUS is the promised SEED. As a consequence, there is no salvation in any other. And there is no other name under Heaven given among men whereby salvation is offered to all, at no cost or effort by man. Indeed, salvation is the gift of God. And no, one does not work to receive this gift.

In fact, if one has to work for it, the gift is no longer a gift. This is why the gift of salvation is unique. Certainly, there is no payment plan attached to the gift of salvation. For the gift of eternal life is offered freely to one and all. Neither was the gift of salvation bought with silver or gold or diamonds.

This gift of salvation offered equally to every individual who turns their life to Jesus was purchased by the sacrificial death of one man.. But this man, as we know from reading the scriptures, was no ordinary man although in appearance He had no remarkable features that would identify Him as one that would stand out in a crowd. We know this because when we shall see Him, the scriptures state that there is no beauty that we should desire him,

Still, the long awaited manifestation of the long awaited SEED - the SEED donor being none other than the holy Spirit of God who promised that He would become man’s Saviour - is the reason the gift of salvation exists. Thus, there was a necessity for the Word of God to be manifested in the flesh and that this flesh manifestation of God (as a Son) named JESUS, become a willing sacrifice securing an everlasting covenant.

For this Covenant was not a Covenant between two parties as was the old redundant Sinai covenant. Rather, this NEW Covenant being a Covenant decided and predetermined of God before there ever was a visible world. A Covenant ordered of God as Spirit whereby God Himself as a Son (God is ONE), executed the unfolding of the covenant in the fashion now revealed of God through the sacrifice of Himself. Hence, GOD Himself brings forth the offer of free redemption from Adam’s fall - Adam being disobedient to God’s instructions in the Garden of Eden.

Remember, it was by one man’s disobedience that sin entered into this world. Death ruled and reigned among us. God Himself had breathed life into man because at the same time God purposed to redeem man by Himself. The result? As the scriptures point out, any person believing upon the sacrificial death of God as a Son would inherit all things as a gifted inheritance.

Then, believers as redeemed people would become God’s adopted sons and daughters. Men and woman would now be redeemed by the shedding of God’s own holy Spirit blood. Believers would also - obediently - and according to the scriptures be baptized into His Name JESUS! Receiving the promise of God that He would now breath upon them the gift of His Spirit.

These redeemed believers having been called by God would by the working of the Spirit of God be totally washed justified and sanctified eventually to be glorified. The end result being that redeemed believers or Christians (followers of Jesus) would be changed to be like Him. What do the scriptures say? For then we shall see Him as He is!

Stand in the offering plate with Jesus! He never fails.

THE LORD IS MY SHEPHERD - PART 257

It appears that denominations have perpetuated unscriptural positions concerning the wisdom of God in the blessing of Abraham.
Man in whose veins did flow Adam’s cursed contaminated prone to sin blood could never redeem himself. Therefore, Isaac being Abraham's natural offspring would in all ways be straddled with prone to sin blood.

It is within this context that redemption required a new uncontaminated blood line. Inasmuch as God has said that there is none righteous, no not one, but all have sinned - meaning all mankind was engulfed in the consequences applied in the original curse.

All except one SEED and that SEED was the imparted SEED of promise. Remember from earlier posts that the SEED of a woman would bruise the serpent’s head? That promised SEED (a new blood line, the new blood line was the blood of the Holy Spirit of God - Acts 20) which promised SEED was imparted into Eve. More than likely she herself would have had no understanding concerning the Spirit of God's workings in the implantation of the promise SEED of God.

When Eve's third male child was born, a genealogical recorded path was initiated. The SEED of promise was passed down with Adam and Eve’s natural seed of which Seth was the product. The promised SEED passed from Eve into Seth's seed bank and through Seth's natural seed, the promised SEED continued on down through the generational ages.

As alluded to in earlier posts, Sarah was barren. Yet in Sarah the promised SEED lay. Abraham had received a promise “that in him (natural seed) and in his SEED (singular CHRIST - Galatians) would all the nations of the earth be blessed."

When Abraham was 100 and Sarah 90 years of age respectively, God fulfilled His promise to Abraham and Sarah. God rejuvenated Abraham's natural reproductive capabilities. At the same time, He implanted a new blood line - the new blood line being the blood of the Holy Spirit of God - read Acts 20.

God opened Sarah's womb and Isaac was brought forth of Abrahamand Sarah's natural seed. The two seeds of promise now passed from Sarah and Abraham into Isaac and in turn, into Jacob as the two promised SEED’S of the Holy Spirit of God moved toward God’s predetermined destination.

The promised SEED’S spoken of - when brought together by the Holy Spirit of God will be the pure humanity of God. God’s humanity will be visibly displayed in JESUS, Son of God, who is God Himself appearing in fleshly fashion.

The embryo, Holy Spirit’s bone and blood being clothed upon in prone to sin flesh in the womb of Mary, a virgin, now with her consent to become a surrogate mother. The scripture states - that Holy thing that shall be born of you Mary shall be called the Son of God.

Note that thing refers to the flesh which the fetos was clothed with. For Mary herself, being one of Adam’s prone to sin flesh offspring - the child flesh was capable of being tempted even as we yet JESUS never succumbed to Satan.

The promised SEED being God Himself manifest in the flesh as a Son. All ye who have faith in the Son of God has eternal life given to them as a gift!

The Promised Seed - PART 256

If Isaac were the promised seed, then would all of us still be dead in trespasses and sins. For Isaac, like all of Adam’s disobedient race had been exiled from fellowship with God, particularly since Isaac was a product of Abraham's natural seed.

Isaac was not the promised SEED. Yet, the Lord did say to Abraham that in him (natural seed) Abraham and in his SEED (CHRIST) will all the nations of the earth be blessed. Indeed, the promised SEED did indwell ISAAC along with ISAAC's natural seed. But ONLY UNTIL God advanced the promised SEED into Jacob at his conception.

However, neither was JACOB the promised SEED. The progression of the promised SEED traveled along in Abraham's offspring and yet none of Abraham's offspring were to be the final embodiment of the promised SEED.

In other words, this message is intended to reveal that Christ alone is the SEED of promise. This is why there is no salvation in any other. JESUS being not the seed of man but rather, JESUS is the VERY SEED of the Holy Ghost. The same SEED brought forth JESUS the Christ, who is none other than the Son of God, and similarly, who is none other than God Himself as a son.

When JESUS came forth from the womb of His surrogate mother, did not the angelic host sing? Did not the wise men offer gifts to Him? And did not the aged Simeon in the temple upon seeing the child JESUS declare, "Lord, let now your servant depart in peace, for my eyes have seen your salvation?"

Further, did not the angel declare that the child be named JESUS? His title to be Immanuel meaning "God with us."

Repeatedly, the scriptures declare that in the eyes of God there is neither Jew, nor Gentile, nor is there preferential treatment given to males above female.

JESUS is the one God who created all things, manifesting Himself in the flesh and entering this fallen world as a man with one intent. That objective being to seek and to save those which would otherwise be totally lost.

A SAVIOUR WHO IS CHRIST THE LORD!

Indeed, as is recorded in the scriptures, JESUS wept over Jerusalem saying, "Oh Jerusalem, how often would I have gathered you under my wings as a chicken gathers her brood and you would not come. Therefore, Jerusalem your house is left to you desolate."

Because of their unbelief they were cut off from the dispensation of grace. Note also that Paul declared that if the Gentiles continued not in the goodness of God, they would also be cut off.

Two thousand years later, the Jewish nation is still under the law of sin and death. Conversely, the Gentiles, had the door of grace opened to them for 2000 years. Unfortunately, at this moment in time the Gentiles appear to have turned aside from this faith which was personally delivered to mankind by God Himself.

As a consequence, the Gentiles are now in the state of being cut off too because of their unbelief. The playing field is being levelled. The Jews always had an opportunity to believe in JESUS and as such, a remnant of them will be saved.

Acts 2:36-42 instructs believers on what they must do to be saved. Read these verses with gladness. Receive His promises into your heart. Be baptized in the name of Jesus the Christ. Seek spiritual gifts. Stand in the offering plate.

THE LORD IS MY SHEPHERD - PART 255

I believe this to be a must read. Galatians chapters 6:15 states the following: For in Christ JESUS neither circumcision availeth anything nor un-circumcision but a new creature and as many as walk according to this rule, peace be on them and mercy and UPON THE ISRAEL OF GOD.

Galatians 4:22 states that Abraham had two sons, one by a bond maiden and the other by a free woman. The son born to the bond maiden was born after the flesh whereas, the other son born unto the free woman was born by promise. This is an allegory which represents two covenants. The one covenant is issued from Sinai and genders to bondage representing Hagar the bondwoman - this Hagar is Mount Sinai in Arabia which answered to Jerusalem - a place which is in bondage along with her children.

But Jerusalem which is above all is the mother of us all. For it is written, Rejoice you barren woman (Sarah) that bears no children. Break forth and cry you that travailed not for the desolate (barren woman Sarah) will have many more children than the bondwoman.

Now we, as Isaac was, (Sarah the freewoman child) are the children of promise. In verse 30 what does the scripture say? “Cast out the bondwoman and her son for the son of the bondwoman shall NOT be HEIR along with the son of the freewoman." So then we are NOT the children of the bondwoman but rather, the children of the freewoman.

Return then to Abraham and the God-given promise that states - In you Abraham and in your SEED will all the nations of the earth be blessed. Galatians 3:36 takes this even further. This verse states, Now to Abraham and his SEED were the promises made." God did not say that the promises were applicable to seeds as in seeds plural. Instead, God said specifically to your seed in the singular. It is this one SEED singularly spoken of that is the SEED of the Holy Spirit of God -- which SEED is Christ.

ISAAC was born of Abraham and Sarah's natural seed. God at HIS appropriate time had resurrected Abraham's capabilities as a man, implanting into Abraham the SEED of Promise (CHRIST). We read this new genealogy in Matthew chapter 1.

The promised SEED was not ISAAC or JACOB. The two promised SEEDS moved through them but they were NOT the PROMISED SEED in whom all the nations of the earth were going to be blessed. The promised SEED came forth at the fullness of time. From the TWO SEEDS of the Holy Spirit a NEW blood line began. In this context, the blood of the Holy Spirit life In Jesus' veins, being brought together in the womb of a willing surrogate named Mary.

In Mary’s womb, the embryo was clothed with Adam’s sin prone flesh. Note the bones and the blood were the embryo of the Holy Spirit. Therefore, at Calvary not one bone of JESUS' body was broken. The embryo had no sin. However, JESUS' flesh becoming more marred than any other human. Jesus' flesh being reduced to a shell of a man.

More to follow on Isaac and why he was not and is not the seed of promise.

THE LORD IS MY SHEPHERD - PART 254

Melchisedec met Abraham when Abraham was returning home from the slaughter of the Kings. Melchisedec was Priest of the Most High God, the King of Salem, the King of peace and the King of righteousness. Melchisedec held in his hands the bread and wine. It was Melchisedec that blessed Abraham.

Note: The blessing was imparted from Melchisedec to Abraham (the least being blest by the greater). Abraham was now possessor of the blessing. There were no strings attached to the blessing. The blessing was solely activated by Melchisedec. God reached out to man -- the descent of God into man. It is not the ascent of man toward God, for man endeavouring to ascend to God is indeed nothing more than a form of religion.

Abraham , AFTER receiving the BLESSING then OFFERS to Melchisedec one tenth of the spoils of victory (which Abraham himself wanted no share of). The Word that must be emphasized is that Abraham OFFERED. It was not demanded by Melchisedec. In the New Testament, for example we read the scriptural passage that states ... Give as unto the LORD, not grudgingly for God loves a cheerful giver.

Today, however, tithes are demanded along with offerings in churches, fulfilling the scripture in so many ways that they (religious institutions) shall make merchandise of you. For many, that is exactly what religion thrives on. Shows on television are utilized to fleece the flock. They talk about money as being the seed and they urge to plant a seed into their ministries.

However, as we have elaborated here, the SEED is the Word of God and the Word is JESUS. Acts 20 declares that elders ought to work with their own hands. In this regard, the apostle Paul led by example. Unfortunately, too many times religion (and likewise preacher opportunists) are only too willing to take one's money. Indeed, some might suggest that church denominations are only interested in taking our money. But the scriptures state, Silver and Gold have I none, but what I do have I give to you. In the name of JESUS, stand up and walk.

This is a far more effective way to evangelize the world with the gospel of God, revealed in the face of JESUS the Christ. This is the same God that states, go you into all the world and preach this Gospel without ever mentioning money.

A good analogy is the penny doubled every day for 28 days and how as a collective, the pennies will eventually reach one million. In a practical sense, we ought to be witnessing to at least one individual a day. By so doing, we at no cost should/would reach one million people in 28 days! Now just imagine if that million, were to preach to one person daily and they in turn preached to another person each day. It would then be perceivable that by the Grace of God, we could reach the seven billion inhabitants of earth fulfilling JESUS prayer, “Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done on earth as is done in Heaven!”

In other words, let believers be about our Father’s business. God bless all who preach the blood and water (bread and wine) good news as we put in the sickle and reap. Peace to all or as the King of Salem, our Great High priest, our only Mediator, leads and guides us, for we shall all be taught of God.

THE LORD IS MY SHEPHERD - PART 253

As a consequence of the message in earlier posts, we now know that both the doctrine of the fathers (as presented by Rome in 300-400 AD) and Sinai Law is no longer applicable. Indeed, we are the children of the free woman. We are not the children of the bondwoman.

Continuing we read that Abraham returned from the slaughter of the kings. Abraham was offered an opportunity to take a share of the spoils. Abraham refused to take any share for he feared that some might say that they had made Abraham rich. However, he did say that his men should be reimbursed to cover their expenses.

When Melchisedec, the Priest of the Most High God appears to Abraham, Melchisedec had in His hands bread and wine which He offered to Abraham. The bread and the wine symbolized the body and blood of the Lamb of God, who is/was the Seed of the holy Spirit, being God Himself manifest in flesh and the one who sacrificed Himself at Calvary once and for all. In so doing, He thereby obtained for believing men and women eternal life.

Please note that Melchisedec did not have in His hands flesh and blood. There was no transubstantiation as some religions might today suggest. Rather, the bread and the wine symbolically remembered the one sacrifice in which JESUS paid the price in full. There being no more or another sacrifice or offering for sin, Melchisedec blesses Abraham in the ministering of the bread and wine.

So Abraham as usual thinks with his Adamic fleshly mind thinking about what it is that he should to add to this already ministered blessing. Recall when God had previously given to Abraham the promised blessing that in him and in his SEED would all the nations of the earth be blest? And in this example, Abraham immediately wanted to add an addendum to the promise?

However, since the promise was already given, it required no addendum. If you read Acts 15 and Galations in the Bible, you will see that the promise required no addendum. And so it is here again - the promised blessing being totally secured in the bread and wine requiring no additions. The addition that Abraham wante . d to add was that Abraham offer one tenth of the spoils to Melchisedec -- the very same spoils that he himself would not be a partaker of.

In the new testament, the bread and the wine (the flesh and blood) dictates that there is no one-tenths offered nor any demands that it should be necessary. For it is written. that believers should give unto the LORD as a cheerful giver - not grudgingly, nor of necessity. Because God loves a cheerful giver.

As such, we should be fully aware that we are complete from the bread and the wine sacrifice. JESUS died for our sins, and likewise rose again for our justification

THE LORD IS MY SHEPHERD - PART 252

There is an old covenant, a covenant that existed between two parties. The old, as the name applies is old. That which is old decays and for the most part is ready to vanish away. In short, what is recommended in the scriptures is that the Old covenant be put on the shelf. This recommendation in spite of those today who still present the old covenant as if it were pertinent.

For the sake of understanding, let's expand on this point. The Law of the Old covenant was added because of transgressions. That is, until the SEED should come to whom the promise was made (the Promised SEED being the Christ!)

The old covenant was a covenant of works. Within this covenant, man would do this and God would honour the agreement by fulfilling his part. But man utterly failed. Even though the covenant was good man’s flesh was still weak. Eventually God just walked away. The problem was that the people here did not recognise that God had cut them off.

The New covenant (as some suggest) is not a covenant. Rather, within this new era, God was about to become man’s only Saviour. Why? Because as the scriptures allude, there was no other in heaven that was capable of redeeming man from the bondage of sin. So God prepared Himself a body planting two SEEDS of Himself into one man Abraham and one woman Eve.

These two SEEDS were eventually brought together by the Holy Spirit of God when the promised two seeds indwelled in a young maiden named Mary. Here, Mary was about to bring forth a child named JESUS. JESUS was God Himself, clothed in flesh whilst He was in the womb of His surrogate mother.

God without any assistance or planning by man was going to pay in full for Adam’s disobedience. For just as one mans sin had brought the human race into captivity, so was one man’s righteousness going to negate the penalty that was pronounced upon all of Adam’s race.

A covenant then is made between two parties. However, in this case there is to be only one party. God is the sole party. God who is Spirit and God Himself became a Son so that we might be saved. Man had no say in the outcome of these events for man was not a participant. God purchased man’s salvation by Himself for it was God who laid down His life as a Son.

What we have then is not a covenant. Rather, what we have is the Last Will and Testament of JESUS, the only Begotten Son of God who prior to His crucifixion bequeathed all that was His to us believers. All that the Father(the unseen Spirit of the One Holy God)was His to share and we become the inheritors of all things freely.

Beloved as such, we are the Sons and Daughters of God. For we have come to JESUS -- empty handed. We then give our hearts to JESUS, obediently being baptized into God’s name which is JESUS. We are now His children. For as many as have been baptized into JESUS the Christ, (the SEED of the Holy Spirit ) have by so doing become eligible to receive of His Spirit.

So my Brothers and Sisters in JESUS, we do not have a Covenant. Rather, we have the TESTAMENT of HIS WILL. The truth sets us free! Peace in Jesus!

THE LORD IS MY SHEPHERD - PART 251

In the scriptures, Abraham is named as being the father of the faithful, a title bestowed upon him simply because he exercised faith in God. Also important is that Abraham had a very darkened understanding of God. Abraham, being one of Adam’s prone to sin offspring was subject to a dying soul like all the others of Adam's offspring. However, because Abraham exercised faith toward God, his exercising faith toward God was accredited to him as righteousness. For God has revealed that the day in which you seek Him with all your heart and soul, then, in that very day, you will commence a journey of faith, a faith which will entice your spirit to advance and obtain more enlightenment. But we jump ahead.

Abraham's son Isaac was born when he was 100 years old. At the time, Sarah was 90 years old. God Had promised that Abraham. through Sarah would have a son. Needless to say, Abraham delighted in their offspring. God had promised Abraham that he and Sarah would have a son and as such, the promise was not to be curtailed. For as God already knew, the promise embraced future events -- events that surely Abraham’s mind would require time to process.

Further, God had promised that in Abraham and in His SEED would all the nations of the earth be blessed. Isaac was a product of Abraham and Sarah's natural seed. But another SEED was spoken of, which SEED would enable all peoples, and nations of people, to be blessed. God had said to Abraham that this other SEED would produce more children than there are particles of sand, and similarly, number more than the stars of heaven.

God had to enable Abraham to be enlightened. So Abraham takes his son Isaac to sacrifice to God. As we read in the scriptures, Abraham builds an alter. Isaac watching this unfold ponders within his mind the question of where the offering would be? Still, Abraham in his belief in God knows that God will provide a sacrifice (or whatever other needs might arise) at the right time. Abraham puts Isaac on the alter, securing him to the alter. Abraham then takes a knife in his hand and raises the knife over his son Isaac. At this point, it looks like Abraham is about to thrust the blade into Isaac. Suddenly, a MEE or a BAH is heard.

Talk about a death threat or an honour killing or even someone killing another and thereby thinking that they are doing God a service. Is this weird or what? God has repeatedly said, Sacrifice and Offerings, I want nothing to do with. Away with them because now a body have I prepared for myself.

The ram caught of God in the thicket declares that God will provide a sacrifice. God did not sacrifice someone else. God sacrificed Himself as a SON. The SEED in which all people and nations of the earth would be blessed is the SEED of God's Holy Spirit. Therefore, Abraham do your son no harm.

Why? Because God is love. And because God does not rejoice over the death of Adam’s sin prone race. For it is written, that like as the children were made partakers of flesh and blood, God Himself took part of the same. The blood in JESUS' veins was the blood of the Holy Spirit.

JESUS, God manifest in the flesh sacrificed Himself. Therefore, there is no more sacrifice for sin. Abraham looked and saw that God provided the sacrifice. God laid down His life once for ALL who believe. As a consequence, there is no more sacrifice!

THE LORD IS MY SHEPHERD - PART 250

The scriptures record that Abraham was a friend of God. In this context, Abraham believed God with expectancy, inheriting the promised blessing of the Seed of Christ. Similarly, our belief in the Word of God is counted to us as righteousness. Like Abraham, we should stagger not at the promises of God, for with God nothing is impossible, if we only believe with expectancy.

The recorded birth of Isaac was to man an impossible achievement. Abraham and Sarah had aged beyond recognized child-bearing years. At the time, when all seemed impossible God stepped in and did what no other power could do. That Is, God provided Sarah with a child. God was faithful to His Word for the Word is God. Later, Isaac was born and the Seed of promise was implanted into Abraham. The promised Seed at the time of Isaac's conception passed from Abraham into Isaac's seed bank.

During this time, Abraham steps out into lands that he did not know. The difference was that God was directing his path. This act of faith is similar to our own journey today that encourages us to commit our way to the Lord and let the Lord direct our paths. But I digress. Abraham was brought by God into a land where he was told to lift up his eyes upon the land. God told Abraham to look as far as his eyes could see because it would be all his.

Indeed, Jesus said all that the Father has is Mine, and all that I have is yours. Lot who had travelled with Abraham was then offered whatever parcel of land he desired. Abraham settled in the remainder. Well, in these same scriptures, we read that Lot made a choice. However, even thought the land looked like a better parcel of land, Lot's choice turned out to be a big mistake. (More on this point later)

Isaac and Ishmael (step brothers) plus six other step brothers were born after Sarah death's of which no details are given. The last record of Ishmael was at Abraham's death, when the scriptures note that Ishmael had fathered twelve sons, and that Ishmael dwelt in their midst.

Apparently, there was no love lost between Ishmael and Isaac. Unbeknownst to them they were to be a similitude of the two covenants - that is, the covenant of bondage (represented by the child of the bondwoman - The Sinai law) and conversely, the covenant of Grace, represented by the child of the free woman. However, none of these natural offspring of Abraham's were the Seed of the promised blessing - which Seed was the Seed of God’s holy Spirit. This point provides some understanding of the spat that continues on even today between the two natural seeds of Abraham.

Unfortunately, this contention between them will continue until both come to the realization that it is not in Abraham's natural seed that man receives redemption. Nor is it in Abraham's natural seed that the world will be blessed. For the Seed hereof spoken of is the Seed of God’s holy Spirit. Those two Seeds of Promise brought forth the man Jesus the Christ, who is the Spirit of the unseen God manifest in the flesh as a Son.

(IMMANUEL being interpreted, God with us -- His Name is JESUS for He shall save His people from their sins)

Stand in the offering plate.

In JESUS will all the nations of the earth be blessed. This is not a old covenant made between God and man. Rather this is the new testament - a testament between God as a Son and God who is Spirit, sacrificing Himself as a Son to offer all who believe in Him with expectancy the free gift of eternal life. This is the gift that is not deserved and certainly one that people can not work for. Why? Because JESUS is the TREE of LIFE!

THE LORD IS MY SHEPHERD - PART 249

We have seen the promised Seed of God passed down through the ages. In Luke chapter 3, another promised Seed is introduced to Abraham but this time the Seed of God’s Holy Spirit is a male seed. As it is written, Abraham and his seed (Christ) were the promise given. The promised seed is not Abraham's natural seed. If that were the case, then Ishmael (Abraham's firstborn son named Ishmael conceived from a relationship between Abraham and a handmaid) would have been the promised seed. The Seed that is spoken of here is the Seed of God’s Holy Spirit, which is an entirely different bloodline.

It is from that bloodline now flowing in Abraham's veins that the Seed of which we speak is God’s Seed, bringing forth the Christ. In that Seed will all nations of the earth be blessed. Therefore, the scriptures clearly present that neither Ishmael nor Isaac (Abraham's second son who was born to Abraham’s wife Sarah) were the Seed of Promise blessing.

To recap what we have learned so far. Abraham was 100 years of age and his wife Sarah was barren. God, whose promise never filters away, stands over His promise, rejuvenating Abraham's dead reproductive cells. At the same time, God implants into Abraham the promised Seed. God rejuvenates Sarah, opening her womb. As a consequence, a child is born to the couple, who then name the baby Isaac.

Isaac was Abraham's natural seed (the Seed of promised passed into Isaac along with the promised Seed to Eve -- whose Seed had been dwelling within Sarah) awaiting the appointed time that God would bring His promise to fruition. If you need more background, please read earlier presentations on this topic - thanks.

Notice in Matthew chapter 1 that a new genealogy is presented starting with Abraham. The two promised Seeds together had passed into Isaac, proceeding through the ages until once again God activated His afore determined purpose. His purpose being to become man’s only Saviour!

In coming to fruition, God had given a promise to Abraham. As we know from the scriptures, Abraham believed in God‘s promise. God’s response to Abraham’s belief was that God counted righteousness to Abraham simply because he believed. It is also noted that Abraham, as a result of his faith in God’s Word, became known as the father of faithful.

As mentioned earlier, men had called upon the name of the Lord (i.e. Seth). Noah also found righteousness in the eyes of the Lord (recall the Promised seed resided within him). But here we find that Abraham believed in what God had said. As it is written, without faith, it is impossible to please God. For whosoever comes to God must believe that He is, and likewise, that He is rewarder of all them that diligently seek Him.

God’s Spirit then brings the two promised seeds together in the womb of a consenting young maiden named Mary. In turn, this young lady Mary becomes a willing surrogate. The angelic messenger says to Mary -- that holy thing (speaking of the sin prone flesh which now clothed the child within Mary's natural womb) shall be called the Son of God. The child of the promised Seeds of the holy Spirit of God will be named JESUS.

As a consequence, all those who believe upon Him shall be blessed. Remember, God’s faithfulness is to all generations. Stand in the offering plate.

THE LORD IS MY SHEPHERD - PART 248

So Adam and Eve had three sons - each with totally different personalities. The first son named Cain, we remember because he murdered his own brother. In the scriptures, God confronted Cain saying, "What have you done? The blood of your brother cries to me from the ground!"The result? God sent Cain away from Adam and Eve which explains why God put a mark on him lest anyone finding him should kill him.

A second son named Abel endeavoured to worship God his own way. Of course, God recognized his efforts saying that should Abel do right, then he would be accepted. Unfortunately, man cannot live above sin in his fallen condition. Thus, this indwelling sin will surmount any man who is exiled from God.

Seth, who is Adam’s third son, had the seed of promise indwelling within him (the seed of the one who would bruise the serpent head - that is the Seed Christ). Whether Seth was conscious of the Seed indwelling him or not, it is recorded in the scriptures that men began to call upon the name of the LORD.

If we follow the promised Seed line, we come to the birth of Noah. This was during a time when sin was rampant. Even so, Noah was found to be righteous in God's eyes. This is why God determined to destroy the human race from the earth whilst still protecting Noah and his family. It also offers a rationale as to why God instructed Noah to build an ark. It is important to note here that in Noah, did dwell the Seed of God’s promise.

Therefore, God was not going to destroy that Seed of His Promise. Rather, Noah gets to work on a 100 year boat building project. When the Ark is complete, Noah and his family - eight persons in total - move inside. God closes the door. Immediately the rain and floods appear from every direction. At the same time, the unbelieving mockers and the scoffers who had made fun of Noah for this hundred year period began to tremble with fear. After the flood, only eight persons remain alive. Noah, his three sons and each of the wives. Still, God promised to never flood the earth again. Indeed, God's promise is viewed in the appearance of beautiful rainbows.

What we need to note here is that the Ark is symbolical of Christ. The water - in this case the flood - surrounding the ark is symbolical of baptism in water by immersion. Believers being baptized into the name JESUS the Christ - the promised seed.

The Promised Seed then travels from Noah into Shem (Sem). It is from these three sons that our world became populated. It is also from these three sons that we have the race colours - white, yellow and black. All sons have Adam’s blood but only Seth's blood contained the promise Seed of a new blood line - God’s Holy Spirit - who is at an appointed time to be brought forth of a woman.

Call His name JESUS (Immanuel meaning God with us). This is why Christ is the ark of safety! Call upon His name -- JESUS -- so that we, each and every one of us can step into the ark.

THE LORD IS MY SHEPHERD - PART 247

Adam had a vested interest in Eve for she was bone of his bone and flesh of his flesh. But God had a much greater interest in Adam insomuch as Adam’s creation was the created works of His own hand. In this context, Adam was the earthly image of God’s spiritual form. A perfect image or as some might surmise, a priceless work of art. However, in the beginning Adam was lifeless. So God breathed into Adam the breath of life, resulting in Adam being called “a living soul. (Note that a living soul can become a dead soul for God has said, “that the soul that sins it shall surely die.”)

But as we know from reading Genesis, Adam and Eve sinned and were subsequently put out of the Garden of Eden. Prior to their expulsion from the Garden, God announced that certain curses would now befall them. Curses that in God's perfect Garden had not befallen them before. At the same time, God issued a promise, “that the Seed of a woman would bruise the serpent head.” The serpent alluded to here is Satan who had deceived them to do things which were contrary to God’s instructions. This included eating of any of the two trees that were in the midst of the Garden of Eden.

In Genesis, we read that Eve was deceived in the Garden. But Adam point blankly ignored God’s instruction. This is what the scriptures refer to as wilful sin - sins which carried consequences. Until this time, Adam and Eve were perfect. Indeed, the couple was perfect right up until the lying deceitful serpent showed up. The serpent (Satan) has been tagged by God as the father of all lies. As a consequence, sin slithered into the Garden.

We also read in Genesis that Adam and Eve initially had two sons. One son was named Cain and the second son Abel. Their personalities totally differed, yet they were the offspring of two perfectly created earthly images of God’s visible spiritual form. At least they were perfect in the Garden. But now they were outside the Garden with a promise “that the seed of a woman would bruise the serpent head.” We realize now that this seed was Christ.

Still, Adam and Eve had two sons. The conduct of Adam and Eve’s offspring was far from being perfect. We see this when we read that Cain rose up and slew his brother Abel. This resulted in Adam and Eve having to confront the stark reality of death. And that Cain, their son was a murderer. The small family was now being thrust into situations where they had never experienced these types of emotions. After all, the Garden of Eden was perfect. (Comfort can be found in I Corinthians 15)

Later, Adam and Eve begat another son who they named Seth. Remember earlier that Eve was told that the seed of a woman would bruise the serpent head. Well, God had implanted into Eve’s seed bank a promised seed -- a seed that was not to be one of Adam and Eve’s natural seed. No instead, this seed of promise was to be a new seed -- a different blood line (the seed of promise being Christ),

So when Seth was born it is recorded “that men then began to call upon the NAME of the LORD.” The Promised Seed had now passed into Seth along with Eve’s natural seed which had brought forth Seth. So, it is here that the journey begins - until the promised seed Jesus who is and was the Christ is born. The promised seed journey is recorded in Matthew 1 and Luke 3.

The point here is that from Adam and Eve THREE seeds came forth. Each seed brought forth different personalities -- different because sin had contaminated the seed. There is a purpose in the scriptural New Testament example -- when JESUS said let the little children come to me and do not forbid children to come to Me. It is equally important that our offspring call upon the Lord Jesus. Indeed, this might be a good time to read 1 Corinthians 7.