Paul said in the epistle to the Galatians, that he marvelled that ye/we are so soon removed from Him that called us into the grace of Christ unto another gospel because of those that would pervert the gospel of Christ. But the Bible states though we or an angel from heaven preach any other gospel unto you than that which the apostles have preached unto you, let him be accursed. As we said before, so say I now again, If any man preach any other gospel unto you than that ye have received let him be accursed.
For we can do nothing against the truth, but for the truth. The Word remains true and every person who contradicts the gospel a liar. "For if he that cometh preaches another Jesus, whom we have not preached, or if ye receive another spirit which ye have not received or another gospel which ye have not accepted" ... I Corinthians 11:4
During these times we need to remember that Jesus' grace is sufficient for thee. It is Jesus who brought us salvation -- God in the flesh -- so that we might have life.
"For though He was crucified through weakness, yet He liveth by the power of God. For we also are weak in Him, but we shall live with Him by the power of God toward you." If we read this same verse -II Corinthians 13:4 in an other translation (taken from The Word, Vaughan, ed.) the same message is delivered using varying language. "Weakness brought Him to the cross but the power of God brought Him life and though is in our weakness that we are united to Him, you will find us too, as He is, alive with God's power."
Jesus gave Himself for our sins so that He might deliver us from this present evil world according to the will of God and our Father to whom be the glory forever and ever. The gospel which was preached was not after man for as Paul said, "I neither received it of man, neither was I taught it but by the revelation of Jesus Christ."
The gospel message is firm. Man is not justified by the works of the law but by the faith of Jesus Christ, even we have believed in Jesus Christ that we might be justified by the faith of Christ and not by the works of the law. We are living in a different dispensation. Don't be fooled by those who try to make the death of Jesus as nothing. Those that attempt to frustrate the grace of God by suggesting that Christ died in vain. Jesus redeemed us from the curse of the law, being made a curse for us. For it is written, Cursed is every one that hangeth on a tree; That the blessing of Abraham might come on the Gentiles through Jesus Christ; that we might receive the promise of the Spirit through faith ... though it be a man's covenant, yet if it be confirmed, no man disannul or addeth thereto.
We are no longer in bondage under the elements of the world. Rather, we are crucified with Christ; nevertheless I live. Yet not I but Christ live 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."
This promise is to you, your children and to all those who are afar off. Stand in the offering plate.
All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness
Friday, August 31, 2012
Thursday, August 30, 2012
Remain Steadfast in the Lord - Part 497
John chapter one states: In the beginning was the Word and the Word was with God and the Word was God ... and this Word became flesh. If we continue to I John 5:7, we read, "For there are three that bear record in Heaven -- the Father, the Word and the Holy Ghost and these three are one." I Timothy 3:16 states, "And without controversy, great is the mystery of godliness. God was manifest in the flesh, justified in the Spirit, seen of angels, preached unto the Gentiles, believed on in the world, received up into glory."
The Biblical scriptures did not just appear. Indeed, the Word of God was personally delivered to His chosen Apostles as outlined in the New Testament. The apostles verbally or by letter endeavoured to forward those same teachings to us believers. The Word also provides an opportunity for us to understand the truth about the God who created us. That is, God loved us so much that He Himself would become flesh so that we might have salvation.
Further, God Himself confirmed the Word with signs and wonders and gifts of His own holy spirit. In so doing, He affirmed that their spoken and written words was indeed His Word. As the scriptures say, if God confirms the signs with His own spirit, then no man can make the signs null and void. Remember too that Jesus said to the apostles, that they were to be his witnesses in all the world. And as His witnesses, the Apostles were to deliver to us the same gospel message that had been given to them.
Therefore, the Word does not originate within us. Jesus is the sole head of the church and as the head of the body of Christ, should He be glorified and acknowledged. There is no other. What do the scriptures say? When Jesus -- the Word -- had finished His earthly ministry, He sat down. In fact, He had completed His earthly mission on our behalf. This same Jesus -- the God who created us in the flesh -- continues to reach out to people today.
But there are those who want to change the gospel message. There are some who want to use a religious fallacy known as transubstantiation as a basis for elevating themselves above the Word. But transubstantiation (along with many other traditional religious teachings that have made their way into the 21st century) it does not align with the Bible. In Acts chapter 15, for example, the apostles and elders instructed believers to keep themselves from four things.
One of these things was blood. The scriptures are clear in the instructions for believers. That is, believers are to avoid blood. Keep away from blood and from flesh which still has blood in it. This instruction was not only delivered to the apostles but the instruction to refrain from blood was also agreed upon and disseminated to believers near and far. Similarly, their conclusion was further circulated throughout the assemblies either by letter or by voice. As a result, the early believers had no reason to pursue any teachings that included substantiation. So neither should we.
Later, the letters that form the Biblical scriptures commenced, and as the Apostles state, "it seemed good to the Holy Spirit and to us. We have therefore delivered these instructions under the guidance of the Holy Spirit. The Holy Spirit and we. Indeed, it is the Holy Spirit pleasure (and ours) to lay upon you these necessary things. These necessary conditions. These necessary requirements that will be indispensable in ensuring that the same gospel that we have taught is taught to all believers for all generations to come.
At the end of the day, these four scriptural requirements which includes refraining from blood were confirmed in the scriptures for a reason. Keep yourself free from these things and you shall do well. You shall prosper and yes you will have done your part to ensure that believers are not led astray by so-called leader who have not read the scriptures for themselves. It is for this reason that we must adhere to the scriptural teachings of Jesus. The Word. It is also the reason that we should beware of those who present false teachings - like the foxes who attempt to raid the sheep pen.
Instead, remain steadfast in the Lord. Be reconciled to the same God who loved you and I so much that He would shed His blood on the cross so that we might have salvation. The Bible says that there is only one name whereby we can be saved. His name is Jesus. Ask Him to take charge of your life today. Then stand in His offering plate!
The Biblical scriptures did not just appear. Indeed, the Word of God was personally delivered to His chosen Apostles as outlined in the New Testament. The apostles verbally or by letter endeavoured to forward those same teachings to us believers. The Word also provides an opportunity for us to understand the truth about the God who created us. That is, God loved us so much that He Himself would become flesh so that we might have salvation.
Further, God Himself confirmed the Word with signs and wonders and gifts of His own holy spirit. In so doing, He affirmed that their spoken and written words was indeed His Word. As the scriptures say, if God confirms the signs with His own spirit, then no man can make the signs null and void. Remember too that Jesus said to the apostles, that they were to be his witnesses in all the world. And as His witnesses, the Apostles were to deliver to us the same gospel message that had been given to them.
Therefore, the Word does not originate within us. Jesus is the sole head of the church and as the head of the body of Christ, should He be glorified and acknowledged. There is no other. What do the scriptures say? When Jesus -- the Word -- had finished His earthly ministry, He sat down. In fact, He had completed His earthly mission on our behalf. This same Jesus -- the God who created us in the flesh -- continues to reach out to people today.
But there are those who want to change the gospel message. There are some who want to use a religious fallacy known as transubstantiation as a basis for elevating themselves above the Word. But transubstantiation (along with many other traditional religious teachings that have made their way into the 21st century) it does not align with the Bible. In Acts chapter 15, for example, the apostles and elders instructed believers to keep themselves from four things.
One of these things was blood. The scriptures are clear in the instructions for believers. That is, believers are to avoid blood. Keep away from blood and from flesh which still has blood in it. This instruction was not only delivered to the apostles but the instruction to refrain from blood was also agreed upon and disseminated to believers near and far. Similarly, their conclusion was further circulated throughout the assemblies either by letter or by voice. As a result, the early believers had no reason to pursue any teachings that included substantiation. So neither should we.
Later, the letters that form the Biblical scriptures commenced, and as the Apostles state, "it seemed good to the Holy Spirit and to us. We have therefore delivered these instructions under the guidance of the Holy Spirit. The Holy Spirit and we. Indeed, it is the Holy Spirit pleasure (and ours) to lay upon you these necessary things. These necessary conditions. These necessary requirements that will be indispensable in ensuring that the same gospel that we have taught is taught to all believers for all generations to come.
At the end of the day, these four scriptural requirements which includes refraining from blood were confirmed in the scriptures for a reason. Keep yourself free from these things and you shall do well. You shall prosper and yes you will have done your part to ensure that believers are not led astray by so-called leader who have not read the scriptures for themselves. It is for this reason that we must adhere to the scriptural teachings of Jesus. The Word. It is also the reason that we should beware of those who present false teachings - like the foxes who attempt to raid the sheep pen.
Instead, remain steadfast in the Lord. Be reconciled to the same God who loved you and I so much that He would shed His blood on the cross so that we might have salvation. The Bible says that there is only one name whereby we can be saved. His name is Jesus. Ask Him to take charge of your life today. Then stand in His offering plate!
Wednesday, August 29, 2012
Jesus Christ the Chief Cornerstone - Part 496
“For I am persuaded that neither death nor life, nor angels nor principalities nor powers, nor things present nor things to come, nor height nor depth, nor any other created thing, shall be able to separate us from the love of God which is in Christ Jesus our Lord” (Romans 8:38, 39).
This revelation becomes more significant when we realize that God loved us first. Indeed, He loved us even before the foundations of our world was created. I the Lord your God have become your Saviour. Even in the Old Testament this revelation was evident. Isaiah 43:3 for example states "For I am the Lord thy God, the Holy One of Israel, thy Saviour."
When the Word became flesh -- Jesus -- it was with one intention. That is, to redeem men and women from their fallen state. Jesus was tempted just as we are but He never succumbed. The reason for this? Because Jesus - God in the flesh - knew that all the vials of our sin being poured out on Jesus would drink the cup right down to the last dregs willingly, knowing that death was imminent. And being man's only hope for salvation, He endured like a lamb being brought to the slaughter.
He opened not His mouth. He loved us so much that He became cursed for us. "For cursed is everyone that is hung/nailed on a tree." This body of Jesus was the only body inhabited by God Almighty. Jesus' body now accursed, left God with no fleshly earthly body to indwell. His own body was now cursed because of sin so that we could be reconciled in His now cursed body. In reality, we were made alive -- quickened -- because He took our place on the cross. He shed His blood so that our sins would be forgiven.
Except a corn of wheat fall into the ground and die, it abides alone. But if the seed dies (as He died) it brings forth much fruit. In other words, Jesus was the only "begotten" son of God. Now, as a consequence of His sacrifice, we can become the sons of God having received of God the same spirit that was in Jesus. In fact, when you ask Jesus into your life, Jesus abides in us. His spirit indwells in our prone to sin bodies.
But Jesus knows our weaknesses. That is why He is our High priest. He is touched with the feelings of our infirmities. He knows how to succour us. He is more than able to quicken. His ear will always be attentive to the shedding of the blood by His own holy spirit. Be still and know that I am God. This is my church and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it.
So as a consequence, what does the Word ask us to do. To continue steadfastly in the apostle's doctrine. "And they continued steadfastly in the apostles' doctrine and fellowship, in the breaking of bread, and in prayers" (Acts 2:42). "Therefore, you are no longer strangers and foreigners, but fellow citizens with the saints and members of the household of God, having been built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Jesus Christ Himself being the chief cornerstone" (Ephesians 2:19,20). Stand in the offering plate!
This revelation becomes more significant when we realize that God loved us first. Indeed, He loved us even before the foundations of our world was created. I the Lord your God have become your Saviour. Even in the Old Testament this revelation was evident. Isaiah 43:3 for example states "For I am the Lord thy God, the Holy One of Israel, thy Saviour."
When the Word became flesh -- Jesus -- it was with one intention. That is, to redeem men and women from their fallen state. Jesus was tempted just as we are but He never succumbed. The reason for this? Because Jesus - God in the flesh - knew that all the vials of our sin being poured out on Jesus would drink the cup right down to the last dregs willingly, knowing that death was imminent. And being man's only hope for salvation, He endured like a lamb being brought to the slaughter.
He opened not His mouth. He loved us so much that He became cursed for us. "For cursed is everyone that is hung/nailed on a tree." This body of Jesus was the only body inhabited by God Almighty. Jesus' body now accursed, left God with no fleshly earthly body to indwell. His own body was now cursed because of sin so that we could be reconciled in His now cursed body. In reality, we were made alive -- quickened -- because He took our place on the cross. He shed His blood so that our sins would be forgiven.
Except a corn of wheat fall into the ground and die, it abides alone. But if the seed dies (as He died) it brings forth much fruit. In other words, Jesus was the only "begotten" son of God. Now, as a consequence of His sacrifice, we can become the sons of God having received of God the same spirit that was in Jesus. In fact, when you ask Jesus into your life, Jesus abides in us. His spirit indwells in our prone to sin bodies.
But Jesus knows our weaknesses. That is why He is our High priest. He is touched with the feelings of our infirmities. He knows how to succour us. He is more than able to quicken. His ear will always be attentive to the shedding of the blood by His own holy spirit. Be still and know that I am God. This is my church and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it.
So as a consequence, what does the Word ask us to do. To continue steadfastly in the apostle's doctrine. "And they continued steadfastly in the apostles' doctrine and fellowship, in the breaking of bread, and in prayers" (Acts 2:42). "Therefore, you are no longer strangers and foreigners, but fellow citizens with the saints and members of the household of God, having been built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Jesus Christ Himself being the chief cornerstone" (Ephesians 2:19,20). Stand in the offering plate!
Tuesday, August 28, 2012
This Is My Blood Shed for You - Part 495
Because Jesus lives, I can face tomorrow. My hope is in Jesus. "You are my hiding place and my shield. I hope in your Word." (Psalms 119:114) Indeed, with Jesus at the helm, our life is so much bigger, so much greater. The Bible says that if we will honour Him with our life, we will see Him do more for us than you can ask or even imagine. Ephesians 3:20 states: "Now to Him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to His power that is at work within us." This is the God we serve! Jesus - the King of Kings and Lord of Lords.
Reading I Peter continues on this perspective. It states: "According to His abundant mercy hath begotten us again unto a lively hope by the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead. To an inheritance incorruptible and undefiled, and that fadeth not away [but rather] reserved in Heaven for you. Who are kept by the power of God through faith unto salvation ready to be revealed in the last time .... That the trial of your faith, being much more precious than of gold that perisheth, though it be tried with fire, might be found unto praise and honour and glory at the appearing of Jesus Christ whom having not seen, you love; in whom, though now you see Him not, yet believe; you rejoice with joy unspeakable and full of glory, receiving the end of your faith, even the salvation of your souls."
Therefore, rejoice in the Lord always. Take refuge in the God who loved us so much that He would become as one of us so that we might have salvation. It is in Him that we have hope. Why? Because God knows best. God knows what is good for man inasmuch as He is the designer of man. Adam was perfect. Adam and God enjoyed fellowship right up to the time that Adam thought that he knew more than God. This is when Adam got his feet stuck in the mud. But God loved His creation. He made an escape plan.
This is my blood shed for you. This is my body given for you.
Yes, Jesus brought us out of bondage. He restores our souls. He leads us in the paths of righteousness for His name's sake -- Jesus! Lo, though we walk through the valley of death, we shall fear no evil for thou art with me. Thy rod and thy staff they comfort me. Jesus is the rewarder of those who diligently seek him. Call upon Jesus today. Stand in the offering plate and believe too that this is the day that the Lord has made.
Reading I Peter continues on this perspective. It states: "According to His abundant mercy hath begotten us again unto a lively hope by the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead. To an inheritance incorruptible and undefiled, and that fadeth not away [but rather] reserved in Heaven for you. Who are kept by the power of God through faith unto salvation ready to be revealed in the last time .... That the trial of your faith, being much more precious than of gold that perisheth, though it be tried with fire, might be found unto praise and honour and glory at the appearing of Jesus Christ whom having not seen, you love; in whom, though now you see Him not, yet believe; you rejoice with joy unspeakable and full of glory, receiving the end of your faith, even the salvation of your souls."
Therefore, rejoice in the Lord always. Take refuge in the God who loved us so much that He would become as one of us so that we might have salvation. It is in Him that we have hope. Why? Because God knows best. God knows what is good for man inasmuch as He is the designer of man. Adam was perfect. Adam and God enjoyed fellowship right up to the time that Adam thought that he knew more than God. This is when Adam got his feet stuck in the mud. But God loved His creation. He made an escape plan.
This is my blood shed for you. This is my body given for you.
Yes, Jesus brought us out of bondage. He restores our souls. He leads us in the paths of righteousness for His name's sake -- Jesus! Lo, though we walk through the valley of death, we shall fear no evil for thou art with me. Thy rod and thy staff they comfort me. Jesus is the rewarder of those who diligently seek him. Call upon Jesus today. Stand in the offering plate and believe too that this is the day that the Lord has made.
Monday, August 27, 2012
The Simplicity of the Gospel of Jesus - Part 494
The Bible says that when the Holy Spirit of truth is come,
He shall lead and guide you into all truth. He shall bring the whatsoever Jesus said to us to our
remembrance. Why? Because the scriptures are adamant. That is, no other foundation can man lay, other
than the Word which has been laid. This is why Jesus the Christ is the cornerstone and His
chosen apostles are the foundation.
For the apostles by the Holy Spirit have expounded to us the first principles of the doctrines of Christ. It also explains why the Word was given of God. The Word sent to us -- written and confirmed of God -- so that no man can deceive those who believe that the written gospel is indeed the Word of God.
I John 5:7 states "For there are three that bear record in heaven, the Father, the Word and the Holy Ghost and these three are one." Note that the scripture does not refer to Son but the Word. As John stated in John chapter one, In the beginning was the Word and the Word was with God and the Word was God .... and the Word became flesh."
But there are many that have departed from this faith, giving heed to seducing spirits and doctrines of devils who deceive people. There are religions out there that refuse to align their teachings to the Word. In other words, those that are supposed to be teaching the good news gospel prefer to hide the truth about Jesus to them that are lost because of their own unbelief.
This, unfortunately, has led to many unbelievers staggering at the simplicity of faith when told about Acts 2:38. Repent and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus. Even so, God has a people which He foreknew even before anything was created. That's right. God foreordained a people to be His elect chosen of God! He did so because God is the Father of all spirits. He is the Alpha and Omega -- the beginning and the end. Indeed, He is likened to a potter. As as a potter God creates one vessel to honour while another vessel dishonours but each vessel of itself fitted of God to serve whatsoever purpose is required. In unfolding the universe, God orchestrates all things after the counsel of His own will. That said, no one has been His counsellor.
But God is not unrighteous. Neither is He umerciful. God has chosen to create a visible kingdom -- visible in all ways and yet similar to His unseen (to us) spiritual kingdom. ‘Thy kingdom come, thy will be done on earth as it is in Heaven." The things which are created visibly display the power and majesty of God so that all men are without excuse for their willing denial of God’s presence. For it is in God that we all live and move and have our being. God is altogether merciful toward man and is long suffering to man’s foolishness and willing ignorance.
This is why we read in Genesis that man was made in God’s image a visible expression of God to be manifest in a body of flesh while the life within man displays the inward life outwardly. We also read here that Adam was a created son of God. Adam sinned the sin of disobedience and was put forth into a world outside of the garden of Eden with a death penalty resulting from disobedience. Adam was forewarned not to partake of a certain fruit. However, setting himself apart from the Word of God, Adam brought upon himself the wages of disobedience which is spiritual and physical death. As Adam’s offspring, we inherit the penalty which is why there is none righteous in the world today. No, not one.
But God did not plan to leave us helpless in this state. God loved His creation. He loved us. Even though it appears that God had lost the battle resulting through the craftiness of the devil in beguiling Adam to indulge in disobedience, the battle was not lost as we know from the New Testament today. God planted into Eve a pure SEED adding that, ‘this SEED of the woman would bruise the serpent’s head ( power).
The good news today is that in this SEED will all the nations of the earth through the exercise of faith be blessed. Stay steadfast in the apostles doctrine and fellowship and in breaking of bread and in prayer as stated in Acts 2. Hallelujah! Praise Jesus ...
For the apostles by the Holy Spirit have expounded to us the first principles of the doctrines of Christ. It also explains why the Word was given of God. The Word sent to us -- written and confirmed of God -- so that no man can deceive those who believe that the written gospel is indeed the Word of God.
I John 5:7 states "For there are three that bear record in heaven, the Father, the Word and the Holy Ghost and these three are one." Note that the scripture does not refer to Son but the Word. As John stated in John chapter one, In the beginning was the Word and the Word was with God and the Word was God .... and the Word became flesh."
But there are many that have departed from this faith, giving heed to seducing spirits and doctrines of devils who deceive people. There are religions out there that refuse to align their teachings to the Word. In other words, those that are supposed to be teaching the good news gospel prefer to hide the truth about Jesus to them that are lost because of their own unbelief.
This, unfortunately, has led to many unbelievers staggering at the simplicity of faith when told about Acts 2:38. Repent and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus. Even so, God has a people which He foreknew even before anything was created. That's right. God foreordained a people to be His elect chosen of God! He did so because God is the Father of all spirits. He is the Alpha and Omega -- the beginning and the end. Indeed, He is likened to a potter. As as a potter God creates one vessel to honour while another vessel dishonours but each vessel of itself fitted of God to serve whatsoever purpose is required. In unfolding the universe, God orchestrates all things after the counsel of His own will. That said, no one has been His counsellor.
But God is not unrighteous. Neither is He umerciful. God has chosen to create a visible kingdom -- visible in all ways and yet similar to His unseen (to us) spiritual kingdom. ‘Thy kingdom come, thy will be done on earth as it is in Heaven." The things which are created visibly display the power and majesty of God so that all men are without excuse for their willing denial of God’s presence. For it is in God that we all live and move and have our being. God is altogether merciful toward man and is long suffering to man’s foolishness and willing ignorance.
This is why we read in Genesis that man was made in God’s image a visible expression of God to be manifest in a body of flesh while the life within man displays the inward life outwardly. We also read here that Adam was a created son of God. Adam sinned the sin of disobedience and was put forth into a world outside of the garden of Eden with a death penalty resulting from disobedience. Adam was forewarned not to partake of a certain fruit. However, setting himself apart from the Word of God, Adam brought upon himself the wages of disobedience which is spiritual and physical death. As Adam’s offspring, we inherit the penalty which is why there is none righteous in the world today. No, not one.
But God did not plan to leave us helpless in this state. God loved His creation. He loved us. Even though it appears that God had lost the battle resulting through the craftiness of the devil in beguiling Adam to indulge in disobedience, the battle was not lost as we know from the New Testament today. God planted into Eve a pure SEED adding that, ‘this SEED of the woman would bruise the serpent’s head ( power).
The good news today is that in this SEED will all the nations of the earth through the exercise of faith be blessed. Stay steadfast in the apostles doctrine and fellowship and in breaking of bread and in prayer as stated in Acts 2. Hallelujah! Praise Jesus ...
Sunday, August 26, 2012
Jesus the Blessed Hope - Part 493
Let God be true and every man a liar, particularly if the individual denies the Biblical scriptures -- the Word -- as truth. This verse from Romans 3:4 is significant when conversing with those who continue to present the true and living God as three persons. The trinity is the term used by a range of traditional religions when referring to God. Some prefer the word deity to justify their false traditions. But what is forgotten in many of the efforts to twist the scriptures rather than aligning one's beliefs to them is "In the beginning God." The scriptures do not say in the beginning the trinity or in the beginning the deity. The scriptures are specific. Genesis 1:1 states "In the beginning God."
Yes, our Lord is one God. Indeed, He hath on His vesture and on His thigh a name written, King of Kings and Lord of Lords. (Revelation 19:16)
Isaiah 9:6 prophesies of Jesus. For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon His shoulder; and His name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, the Mighty God, the Everlasting Father, the Prince of Peace.
This same God became flesh and dwelt among us according to John 1. It was not another God or person as some deem it to be. Colosians 2:9 states: For in Him [Jesus] dwelleth all the fullness of the Godhead bodily. This is why there is no salvation in any other; for there is none other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved. (Acts 4:12)
I Timothy 3:16 states: And without controversy great is the mystery of godliness: God was manifest in the flesh, justified in the spirit, seen of angels, preached unto the Gentiles, believed on in the world, received up into glory. Romans 1:20 states: For the invisible things of Him from the creation of the world are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made, even his eternal power and Godhead; so that they are without excuse.
Therefore, rather than believing those who counsel contrary to the Word, trying to change the scriptures to suit their own traditional beliefs (and subsequently re-writing the Word in a futile attempt to accommodate these errors) it is time for people to accept the Bible as it is written. Align your beliefs to the Word. And look for that blessed hope and the glorious appearing of our great God and Saviour Jesus Christ. (Titus 2:13) Stand in the Offering Plate.
Yes, our Lord is one God. Indeed, He hath on His vesture and on His thigh a name written, King of Kings and Lord of Lords. (Revelation 19:16)
Isaiah 9:6 prophesies of Jesus. For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon His shoulder; and His name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, the Mighty God, the Everlasting Father, the Prince of Peace.
This same God became flesh and dwelt among us according to John 1. It was not another God or person as some deem it to be. Colosians 2:9 states: For in Him [Jesus] dwelleth all the fullness of the Godhead bodily. This is why there is no salvation in any other; for there is none other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved. (Acts 4:12)
I Timothy 3:16 states: And without controversy great is the mystery of godliness: God was manifest in the flesh, justified in the spirit, seen of angels, preached unto the Gentiles, believed on in the world, received up into glory. Romans 1:20 states: For the invisible things of Him from the creation of the world are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made, even his eternal power and Godhead; so that they are without excuse.
Therefore, rather than believing those who counsel contrary to the Word, trying to change the scriptures to suit their own traditional beliefs (and subsequently re-writing the Word in a futile attempt to accommodate these errors) it is time for people to accept the Bible as it is written. Align your beliefs to the Word. And look for that blessed hope and the glorious appearing of our great God and Saviour Jesus Christ. (Titus 2:13) Stand in the Offering Plate.
Saturday, August 25, 2012
Jesus Knows the Cries of our Heart - Part 492
Did I not tell you that you would see the glory of God? Jesus said that the promise is to you and to your children and to all those who are afar off. John 11:51-52 states, "He did not say this on his own, but as high priest that year he prophesied that Jesus would die for the Jewish nation, and not only for that nation but also for the scattered children of God, to bring them together and make them one."
Yes, Jesus is the King of Kings and Lord of Lords. In the beginning God. The last name given under Heaven whereby we can be saved -- Jesus. In John, the scriptures point out that in the beginning was the Word and the Word was with God and the Word was God. And that same Word -- God -- became flesh.
I John 5:7 states: For there are three that bear record in heaven, the Father, the Word, and the Holy Ghost: and these three are one.
His last will and testament was given when Jesus hung on the cross. Jesus is the Word. Therefore, the greatest love that God could have for His people is that He would shed His blood for us. This is why there is only one mediator between God and man -- Jesus! This same God loved us so much that He would become flesh and dwell among us -- and then die for us -- so that we -- you and I -- might have life and have life abundant.
The parable about Lazarus is intended to show us that Jesus -- our Lord and Saviour -- is never far away. He who watches the sparrows loves us so much that He knows the number of hairs on our head. He knows our infirmities. Indeed, Jesus knows the cries of our heart and desires to comfort us. The Master has come - so that we might know Him personally.
I John 5:7 states: For there are three that bear record in heaven, the Father, the Word, and the Holy Ghost: and these three are one.
His last will and testament was given when Jesus hung on the cross. Jesus is the Word. Therefore, the greatest love that God could have for His people is that He would shed His blood for us. This is why there is only one mediator between God and man -- Jesus! This same God loved us so much that He would become flesh and dwell among us -- and then die for us -- so that we -- you and I -- might have life and have life abundant.
The parable about Lazarus is intended to show us that Jesus -- our Lord and Saviour -- is never far away. He who watches the sparrows loves us so much that He knows the number of hairs on our head. He knows our infirmities. Indeed, Jesus knows the cries of our heart and desires to comfort us. The Master has come - so that we might know Him personally.
But the powers that be at the time were concerned about the multitudes who understood who Jesus was -- those who believed in Him - and counselled to kill Him. Some of the Jews even said, "Could not this man, which opened the eyes of the blind, have caused that even this man should not have died?"
And then, when even Martha thought there was no hope, Jesus performed the miracle. He raised Lazarus from the dead.
From John 11:
From John 11:
39 Jesus said, Take ye away the stone. Martha, the sister of him that was dead, saith unto him, Lord, by this time he stinketh: for he hath been dead four days.
40 Jesus saith unto her, Said I not unto thee, that, if thou wouldest believe, thou shouldest see the glory of God?
41 Then they took away the stone from the place where the dead was laid. And Jesus lifted up his eyes, and said, Father, I thank thee that thou hast heard me.
42 And I knew that thou hearest me always: but because of the people which stand by I said it, that they may believe that thou hast sent me.
43 And when he thus had spoken, he cried with a loud voice, Lazarus, come forth.
44 And he that was dead came forth, bound hand and foot with graveclothes: and his face was bound about with a napkin. Jesus saith unto them, Loose him, and let him go.
And the people believed. Indeed, Jesus is the way, the truth and the life! Invite the Master into your heart today. The Master -- Jesus. Stand in the offering plate!
John 11
11 Now a certain man was sick, named Lazarus, of Bethany, the town of Mary and her sister Martha.
2 (It was that Mary which anointed the Lord with ointment, and wiped his feet with her hair, whose brother Lazarus was sick.)3 Therefore his sisters sent unto him, saying, Lord, behold, he whom thou lovest is sick.
4 When Jesus heard that, he said, This sickness is not unto death, but for the glory of God, that the Son of God might be glorified thereby.
5 Now Jesus loved Martha, and her sister, and Lazarus.
6 When he had heard therefore that he was sick, he abode two days still in the same place where he was.
7 Then after that saith he to his disciples, Let us go into Judaea again.
8 His disciples say unto him, Master, the Jews of late sought to stone thee; and goest thou thither again?
9 Jesus answered, Are there not twelve hours in the day? If any man walk in the day, he stumbleth not, because he seeth the light of this world.
10 But if a man walk in the night, he stumbleth, because there is no light in him.
11 These things said he: and after that he saith unto them, Our friend Lazarus sleepeth; but I go, that I may awake him out of sleep.
12 Then said his disciples, Lord, if he sleep, he shall do well.
13 Howbeit Jesus spake of his death: but they thought that he had spoken of taking of rest in sleep.
14 Then said Jesus unto them plainly, Lazarus is dead.
15 And I am glad for your sakes that I was not there, to the intent ye may believe; nevertheless let us go unto him.
16 Then said Thomas, which is called Didymus, unto his fellow disciples, Let us also go, that we may die with him.
17 Then when Jesus came, he found that he had lain in the grave four days already.
18 Now Bethany was nigh unto Jerusalem, about fifteen furlongs off:
19 And many of the Jews came to Martha and Mary, to comfort them concerning their brother.
20 Then Martha, as soon as she heard that Jesus was coming, went and met him: but Mary sat still in the house.
21 Then said Martha unto Jesus, Lord, if thou hadst been here, my brother had not died.
22 But I know, that even now, whatsoever thou wilt ask of God, God will give it thee.
23 Jesus saith unto her, Thy brother shall rise again.
24 Martha saith unto him, I know that he shall rise again in the resurrection at the last day.
25 Jesus said unto her, I am the resurrection, and the life: he that believeth in me, though he were dead, yet shall he live:
26 And whosoever liveth and believeth in me shall never die. Believest thou this?
27 She saith unto him, Yea, Lord: I believe that thou art the Christ, the Son of God, which should come into the world.
28 And when she had so said, she went her way, and called Mary her sister secretly, saying, The Master is come, and calleth for thee.
29 As soon as she heard that, she arose quickly, and came unto him.
30 Now Jesus was not yet come into the town, but was in that place where Martha met him.
31 The Jews then which were with her in the house, and comforted her, when they saw Mary, that she rose up hastily and went out, followed her, saying, She goeth unto the grave to weep there.
32 Then when Mary was come where Jesus was, and saw him, she fell down at his feet, saying unto him, Lord, if thou hadst been here, my brother had not died.
33 When Jesus therefore saw her weeping, and the Jews also weeping which came with her, he groaned in the spirit, and was troubled.
34 And said, Where have ye laid him? They said unto him, Lord, come and see.
35 Jesus wept.
36 Then said the Jews, Behold how he loved him!
37 And some of them said, Could not this man, which opened the eyes of the blind, have caused that even this man should not have died?
38 Jesus therefore again groaning in himself cometh to the grave. It was a cave, and a stone lay upon it.
39 Jesus said, Take ye away the stone. Martha, the sister of him that was dead, saith unto him, Lord, by this time he stinketh: for he hath been dead four days.
40 Jesus saith unto her, Said I not unto thee, that, if thou wouldest believe, thou shouldest see the glory of God?
41 Then they took away the stone from the place where the dead was laid. And Jesus lifted up his eyes, and said, Father, I thank thee that thou hast heard me.
42 And I knew that thou hearest me always: but because of the people which stand by I said it, that they may believe that thou hast sent me.
43 And when he thus had spoken, he cried with a loud voice, Lazarus, come forth.
44 And he that was dead came forth, bound hand and foot with graveclothes: and his face was bound about with a napkin. Jesus saith unto them, Loose him, and let him go.
45 Then many of the Jews which came to Mary, and had seen the things which Jesus did, believed on him.
46 But some of them went their ways to the Pharisees, and told them what things Jesus had done.
47 Then gathered the chief priests and the Pharisees a council, and said, What do we? for this man doeth many miracles.
48 If we let him thus alone, all men will believe on him: and the Romans shall come and take away both our place and nation.
49 And one of them, named Caiaphas, being the high priest that same year, said unto them, Ye know nothing at all,
50 Nor consider that it is expedient for us, that one man should die for the people, and that the whole nation perish not.
51 And this spake he not of himself: but being high priest that year, he prophesied that Jesus should die for that nation;
52 And not for that nation only, but that also he should gather together in one the children of God that were scattered abroad.
Friday, August 24, 2012
I Know In Whom I Serve - Part 491
How many times have we read the Bible and yet, never seen a particular passage of scripture? The following verses from Acts 23 is one such example. It states:
They came to the chief priests and elders and said, "We have bound ourselves under a great curse that we will eat nothing until we have slain Paul. Now therefore ye with the council signify to the chief captain that he bring him down unto you tomorrow as though ye would inquire something more perfectly concerning him and we, or ever he come near, are ready to kill him. And when Paul's sister a son heard of their lying in wait, he went and entered into the castle, and told Paul.
Then Paul called unto one of the centurions unto him and said, "Bring this young man unto the chief captain; for he hath a certain thing to tell him. So he took him, and brought him to the chief captain and said, Paul the prisoner called me unto him and prayed me to bring this young man unto thee who hath something to say unto thee. Then the chief captain took him by the hand and went with him aside privately and asked him What is that thou hast to tell me? And he said, The Jews have agreed to desire thee that thou wouldest bring down Paul tomorrow into the council as though they would inquire somewhat of him more perfectly. But do not thou yield unto them; for they lie in wait for him of them more than forty men which have bound themselves with an oath that they will neither eat nor drink till they have killed him; and now are they ready, looking for a promise from thee.
So the chief captain then let the young man depart and charged him. See thou tell no man that thou hast shown these things to me. And he called unto him two centurions saying, Make ready two hundred soldiers to go to Caesarea and horsemen threescore and ten and spear men two hundred at the third hour of the night. And provide them beasts that they may set Paul on and bring him safe unto Felix the governor.
And he wrote a letter after this manner: Caludius Lysias unto the most excellent governor Felix sendeth greeting. This man was taken of the Jews and should have been killed of them; then came I with an army and rescued him having understood that he was a Roman. And when I would have known the cause wherefore they accused him I brought him forth into their council.
But after long abstinence Paul stood forth in the midst of them, and said Sirs ye should have hearkened unto me and not have loosed from Crete and to have gained this harm and loss. And now I exhort you to be of good cheer; for there shall be no loss of any man's life among you but of the ship. For there stood by me this night the angle of God whose I am and whom I serve Saying Fear not Paul thou must be brought before Caesar and lo God hath given thee all them that sail with thee. Wherefore sirs be of good cheer; for I believe God that it shall be even as it was told me.
As we read further, we begin to realize that Jesus is in control of every situation. Indeed, there is a reason that things happen. The good news is that the counsel of God has already determined the outcome. He has already decided the time frame. And like the sparrows, He has good intentions for those who love Him. Ask Jesus into your life today. Stand in the offering plate!
They came to the chief priests and elders and said, "We have bound ourselves under a great curse that we will eat nothing until we have slain Paul. Now therefore ye with the council signify to the chief captain that he bring him down unto you tomorrow as though ye would inquire something more perfectly concerning him and we, or ever he come near, are ready to kill him. And when Paul's sister a son heard of their lying in wait, he went and entered into the castle, and told Paul.
Then Paul called unto one of the centurions unto him and said, "Bring this young man unto the chief captain; for he hath a certain thing to tell him. So he took him, and brought him to the chief captain and said, Paul the prisoner called me unto him and prayed me to bring this young man unto thee who hath something to say unto thee. Then the chief captain took him by the hand and went with him aside privately and asked him What is that thou hast to tell me? And he said, The Jews have agreed to desire thee that thou wouldest bring down Paul tomorrow into the council as though they would inquire somewhat of him more perfectly. But do not thou yield unto them; for they lie in wait for him of them more than forty men which have bound themselves with an oath that they will neither eat nor drink till they have killed him; and now are they ready, looking for a promise from thee.
So the chief captain then let the young man depart and charged him. See thou tell no man that thou hast shown these things to me. And he called unto him two centurions saying, Make ready two hundred soldiers to go to Caesarea and horsemen threescore and ten and spear men two hundred at the third hour of the night. And provide them beasts that they may set Paul on and bring him safe unto Felix the governor.
And he wrote a letter after this manner: Caludius Lysias unto the most excellent governor Felix sendeth greeting. This man was taken of the Jews and should have been killed of them; then came I with an army and rescued him having understood that he was a Roman. And when I would have known the cause wherefore they accused him I brought him forth into their council.
But after long abstinence Paul stood forth in the midst of them, and said Sirs ye should have hearkened unto me and not have loosed from Crete and to have gained this harm and loss. And now I exhort you to be of good cheer; for there shall be no loss of any man's life among you but of the ship. For there stood by me this night the angle of God whose I am and whom I serve Saying Fear not Paul thou must be brought before Caesar and lo God hath given thee all them that sail with thee. Wherefore sirs be of good cheer; for I believe God that it shall be even as it was told me.
As we read further, we begin to realize that Jesus is in control of every situation. Indeed, there is a reason that things happen. The good news is that the counsel of God has already determined the outcome. He has already decided the time frame. And like the sparrows, He has good intentions for those who love Him. Ask Jesus into your life today. Stand in the offering plate!
Monday, August 20, 2012
Update - Bill is with his Saviour Jesus - Part 490
Today - August 20, 2012 - the founder of Holy Spirit Ministries Canada and author of this blog William (Bill) McKendrick went home to be with His Lord and Master -- the King of Kings - Jesus. We gratefully acknowledge his many scriptural contributions and offer our condolences and support to the McKendrick family at this time. Thank you in advance for your prayerful support.
Friday, August 17, 2012
The Blood of Jesus Took Our Infirmities - PART 489
He Himself took our infirmities and carried away our diseases.
It is refreshing to know that the same Lord Jesus who washed our sins clean because of His blood shed is similarly capable of restoring our bodies to a healthy state. Certainly, the Bible repeatedly declares His promises with regard to healing. Indeed, "our griefs He Himself bore and our sorrows He carried. He was pierced through for our transgressions. He was crushed for our iniquities. And by His scourging, we are healed." (Isaiah 53:4-5)
Healing people of their infirmities was certainly a priority. Of the 35 miracles recorded in the New Testament, 26 of them involved some form of physical healing or raising people from the dead. More on the healing power of Jesus can be found in Matthew 10:1, Mark 3:15, and Luke 3:22.
Another example can be found in Acts 3:1-8. One day Peter and John were going up to the temple at the time of prayer—at three in the afternoon. Now a man crippled from birth was being carried to the temple gate called Beautiful, where he was put every day to beg from those going into the temple courts. When he saw Peter and John about to enter, he asked them for money. Peter looked straight at him, as did John. Then Peter said, "Look at us!" So the man gave them his attention, expecting to get something from them.
Then Peter said, "Silver or gold I do not have, but what I have I give you. In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, walk." Taking him by the right hand, he helped him up, and instantly the man's feet and ankles became strong. He jumped to his feet and began to walk. Then he went with them into the temple courts, walking and jumping, and praising God."
Like those believers who were healed in the scriptures, we need to praise our Lord God and Saviour too! Stand today in His offering plate!
It is refreshing to know that the same Lord Jesus who washed our sins clean because of His blood shed is similarly capable of restoring our bodies to a healthy state. Certainly, the Bible repeatedly declares His promises with regard to healing. Indeed, "our griefs He Himself bore and our sorrows He carried. He was pierced through for our transgressions. He was crushed for our iniquities. And by His scourging, we are healed." (Isaiah 53:4-5)
Healing people of their infirmities was certainly a priority. Of the 35 miracles recorded in the New Testament, 26 of them involved some form of physical healing or raising people from the dead. More on the healing power of Jesus can be found in Matthew 10:1, Mark 3:15, and Luke 3:22.
Another example can be found in Acts 3:1-8. One day Peter and John were going up to the temple at the time of prayer—at three in the afternoon. Now a man crippled from birth was being carried to the temple gate called Beautiful, where he was put every day to beg from those going into the temple courts. When he saw Peter and John about to enter, he asked them for money. Peter looked straight at him, as did John. Then Peter said, "Look at us!" So the man gave them his attention, expecting to get something from them.
Then Peter said, "Silver or gold I do not have, but what I have I give you. In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, walk." Taking him by the right hand, he helped him up, and instantly the man's feet and ankles became strong. He jumped to his feet and began to walk. Then he went with them into the temple courts, walking and jumping, and praising God."
Like those believers who were healed in the scriptures, we need to praise our Lord God and Saviour too! Stand today in His offering plate!
Lo, Though I Walk Through the Valley of Death - Part 488
At this time, the author of these posts - William McKendrick Sr. - has been admitted to hospital with an unknown illness. The blogs will continue to be written and posted but in the interim, the family is asking that you pray for a recovery for Bill. We know that Jesus is able to heal and restore our physical bodies according to His divine will. We sincerely thank you in advance for your prayerful support during this time.
Thursday, August 16, 2012
THE LORD IS MY SHEPHERD - PART 487
The life of the body is in the blood. God knew this when He determined a plan of salvation that included God becoming our Saviour. Indeed as Revelation points out, they have defeated them by the blood of the Lamb and by their testimony. Blood continues to be a signifying component of salvation throughout the ages.
Certainly, in Moses time, it was by faith that Moses commanded the people to keep the Passover and to sprinkle blood on the door posts so that their first born would be protected. The importance of blood is further confirmed in the old covenant (Old Testament) where it is written that "Because of the covenant I made with you -- covenant sealed with blood -- I will free your prisoners from death." (Zechariah 9:11)
In the New Testament, God revealed His plan of salvation whereby we can be reconciled back to God through the blood of Jesus. In fact, our salvation is still sealed with blood when we accept Jesus into our lives as our personal Saviour. Yes, the same God who created the world and all its inhabitants loved us so much that He became man and shed His humanity on the cross of Calvary.
In the beginning was the Word and the Word was with God and the Word was God. And the Word became flesh. (John 1;1-14) Matthew and John both state that this is my blood that was shed for you. We are saved through the blood of Jesus the Christ. Trust in Him in whom we have redemption and forgiveness of sins. (Collosians 1:14)
Therefore, wash your robes in the blood of the Lamb and let Jesus -- your Lord God and Saviour -- make your robes white. Trust in Jesus in whom we have redemption through His blood the forgiveness of sins according to the riches of His grace. (Ephesians 1:7) All glory to Jesus who has loved us and has freed us from our sin through the shedding of the blood.
Stand in the offering plate today!
Certainly, in Moses time, it was by faith that Moses commanded the people to keep the Passover and to sprinkle blood on the door posts so that their first born would be protected. The importance of blood is further confirmed in the old covenant (Old Testament) where it is written that "Because of the covenant I made with you -- covenant sealed with blood -- I will free your prisoners from death." (Zechariah 9:11)
In the New Testament, God revealed His plan of salvation whereby we can be reconciled back to God through the blood of Jesus. In fact, our salvation is still sealed with blood when we accept Jesus into our lives as our personal Saviour. Yes, the same God who created the world and all its inhabitants loved us so much that He became man and shed His humanity on the cross of Calvary.
In the beginning was the Word and the Word was with God and the Word was God. And the Word became flesh. (John 1;1-14) Matthew and John both state that this is my blood that was shed for you. We are saved through the blood of Jesus the Christ. Trust in Him in whom we have redemption and forgiveness of sins. (Collosians 1:14)
Therefore, wash your robes in the blood of the Lamb and let Jesus -- your Lord God and Saviour -- make your robes white. Trust in Jesus in whom we have redemption through His blood the forgiveness of sins according to the riches of His grace. (Ephesians 1:7) All glory to Jesus who has loved us and has freed us from our sin through the shedding of the blood.
Stand in the offering plate today!
Wednesday, August 15, 2012
THE LORD IS MY SHEPHERD - PART 486
James 4:10 in the Bible speaks about humbling ourselves before the Lord. Indeed, the scripture states: Humble yourselves in the sight of the Lord and He shall lift you up. Other Biblical translations use different language to make the same point. In one edition the verse states: 'Humble yourselves in the presence of the Lord and He will exalt you" Therefore, be blessed not in and of yourself but be blessed because you have humbled yourself before Jesus -- in His presence -- in the "presence of the Lord."
Yes, the message is to humble yourself before God Almighty who loved us so much that He would become flesh and died for us. This salvation message has not changed throughout time. Even in the Old Testament God said, "if my people who are called by My Name shall humble themselves and pray and seek My face and turn from their wicked ways, then will I hear from heaven and forgive their sin ... " (2 Chronicles 7:14)
In the parable found in Luke 18:9-14 Jesus referred to those who think themselves righteous, treating others with contempt that "two men went up into the temple to pray. One was a Pharisee and the other a tax collector. The Pharisee, standing by himself prays unto God saying: "God I thank you that I am not like other men - extortioners, unjust, adulterers or even like this tax collector. I fast twice a week and I pay tithes." But the tax collector, standing off in the distance could not even lift his eyes to heaven. Instead he beat his breast saying, "God be merciful to me a sinner."
Yes, the message is to humble yourself before God Almighty who loved us so much that He would become flesh and died for us. This salvation message has not changed throughout time. Even in the Old Testament God said, "if my people who are called by My Name shall humble themselves and pray and seek My face and turn from their wicked ways, then will I hear from heaven and forgive their sin ... " (2 Chronicles 7:14)
In the parable found in Luke 18:9-14 Jesus referred to those who think themselves righteous, treating others with contempt that "two men went up into the temple to pray. One was a Pharisee and the other a tax collector. The Pharisee, standing by himself prays unto God saying: "God I thank you that I am not like other men - extortioners, unjust, adulterers or even like this tax collector. I fast twice a week and I pay tithes." But the tax collector, standing off in the distance could not even lift his eyes to heaven. Instead he beat his breast saying, "God be merciful to me a sinner."
Why do we need to be humble? Because as the scriptures repeatedly state, "All have sinned and fallen short of the glory of God." Not one of us has achieved salvation through our own works or deeds. But the good news is that we are His workmanship -- created in Christ Jesus for good works -- which God prepared beforehand that we should walk with Him. (Ephesians 2:10)
We are saved according to His great mercy. It is He who has caused us to be born again to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead to an inheritance that is imperishable, undefiled and unfading kept in heaven for you, who by God`s power are being guarded through faith for a salvation ready to be revealed in the last time.
Jesus said "truly I say unto you that unless you turn and become like children you will never enter the kingdom of heaven. Whoever humbles himself like this child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven.`(Matthew 18:3-4)
We are saved according to His great mercy. It is He who has caused us to be born again to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead to an inheritance that is imperishable, undefiled and unfading kept in heaven for you, who by God`s power are being guarded through faith for a salvation ready to be revealed in the last time.
Jesus said "truly I say unto you that unless you turn and become like children you will never enter the kingdom of heaven. Whoever humbles himself like this child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven.`(Matthew 18:3-4)
Therefore, as Jesus said, "Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me for I am gentle and lowly in heart and you will find rest for your souls." Trust Jesus today. Ask Jesus for His will for your life. You will never be disappointed!
Stand in His offering plate.
Stand in His offering plate.
Friday, August 10, 2012
THE LORD IS MY SHEPHERD - PART 485
The subject of the day concerns the proliferation of doctrine that does not align with the scriptures. When church teachings do not conform with the scriptures, it makes a mockery of the Word. As the scriptures state, Jesus' teachings (as preached by the apostles) seemed not only good to the Spirit that is holy but to the apostles and elders too. The Word was further confirmed by mighty signs and wonders wherever the gospel was preached. This in and of itself serves as a testimony that the Biblical Word as presented should be our spiritual foundation.
But as a good percentage of the churches that exist today reveal they are often seduced by the same sins of the Garden of Eden. These traditions have led to many religions pursuing substance and sustainability options rather than seeking spiritual things. Had the churches searched the Word for their understanding, there would be much less confusion about who God is within the populace.
II Corinthians 12:18-21 states: "I desired Titus and with him I sent a brother, Did Titus make a gain of you? Walked we not in the same steps? Again think ye that we excuse ourselves unto you? We speak before God in Christ but we do all things, dearly beloved, for your edifying. For I fear lest when I come I shall not find you such as I would and that I shall be found unto you such as ye would not: lest there be debates, envying , wraths, strifes, backbitings, whisperings, swelling, tumults; And lest when I come again my God will humble me among you, and that I shall bewail many which have sinned already and have not repented of the uncleanness and fornication and lasciviousness which they have committed.
Think upon these things.
Stand in the offering plate!
But as a good percentage of the churches that exist today reveal they are often seduced by the same sins of the Garden of Eden. These traditions have led to many religions pursuing substance and sustainability options rather than seeking spiritual things. Had the churches searched the Word for their understanding, there would be much less confusion about who God is within the populace.
II Corinthians 12:18-21 states: "I desired Titus and with him I sent a brother, Did Titus make a gain of you? Walked we not in the same steps? Again think ye that we excuse ourselves unto you? We speak before God in Christ but we do all things, dearly beloved, for your edifying. For I fear lest when I come I shall not find you such as I would and that I shall be found unto you such as ye would not: lest there be debates, envying , wraths, strifes, backbitings, whisperings, swelling, tumults; And lest when I come again my God will humble me among you, and that I shall bewail many which have sinned already and have not repented of the uncleanness and fornication and lasciviousness which they have committed.
Think upon these things.
Stand in the offering plate!
Thursday, August 9, 2012
THE LORD IS MY SHEPHERD - PART 484
My cup runneth over because of the mercy and grace that our Lord and Saviour Jesus has extended to you and me. The following scriptures are from Psalm 23. Rest in the arms of Jesus! He never fails!
The Lord is my Shepherd. I shall not want. He maketh me to lie down in green pastures. He leadeth me beside the still waters. He restores my soul. He leads me in the paths of righteousness for His name's sake. Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil for thou art with me. Thy rod and thy staff they comfort me. Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies. Thou anointest my head with oil. My cup runneth over. Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life: and I will dwell in the house of the Lord for ever.
Tuesday, August 7, 2012
THE LORD IS MY SHEPHERD - PART 483
JESUS! Jesus is the Christ that was foretold in the Old Testament. He is the Lord of Glory - the King of Kings. So why then is there such widespread ignorance concerning the most important part of our salvation? That is, who is this God that loved us so much that He would become flesh and have His humanity die on the cross?
Further, why is there this reluctance among traditional religious institutions to align their traditions with the Word? To some extent, we understand that satan wants to elevate these misconceptions --- and thereby conceal from men the truth. Still, there is no theological sound reason for churches continuing to teach doctrines and traditions that fail to align with the scriptures. Search the scriptures for in them ye shall have eternal life; they are they which testify of me. Who is Me?
In the beginning God. The first book of the Bible Genesis begins with "in the beginning God." And in John 1, the mystery of the Godhead is further explained. In the beginning was the Word and the Word was with God and the Word WAS God. And this same Word became flesh. The Word that was God became flesh.
This is why we have the scriptures -- so that we as believers in Jesus can read the scriptures for ourselves and discern what is right according to the scriptures. The scriptures are our foundation for knowledge and wisdom. There is no other point of reference. The best part is that we are not living in Old Testament times where God spoke to intermediaries who disseminated the teaching(s) to the populace.
In this new day, according to the New Testament scriptures, there is one intermediary between God and man -- Jesus. Jesus is the way, the truth and the life. And it is His Word that we need to hear and do. What is it the scriptures say? And be not conformed to this world but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is the good and acceptable and perfect will of God. We do this by reading and discerning the scriptures -- the Word -- that was delivered to us by our Creator. There is only one God and His name is Jesus.
So in furthering our personal walk with Jesus let's not become as the individual identified in Matthew 13:22 which states: The one who received the seed that fell among the thorns is the man who hears the Word, but the worries of this life and the deceitfulness of wealth choke it, making it unfruitful.
We have been saved by His grace. His abundant grace. Trust in Jesus today. He never fails!
Monday, August 6, 2012
THE LORD IS MY SHEPHERD - PART 482
Oh keep my soul and deliver me. Let me not be ashamed for I put my trust in Thee. How many times do we read in the Old Testament about putting our trust in Thee? How often does the Old Testament refer to the one God who loves us? So why then does there appear to be misguided confusion regarding the One and Only God when we read the New Testament?
John chapter 1 could not be any clearer and yet because of religious traditions that do not align with the scriptures, we stumble. But for what? If the Word is God and the Word became flesh, then yes, that means God became flesh and dwelt among us. The same God who created the world and all its inhabitants loved you and I so much that He became flesh and took our place of sin on the cross of Calvary. The greatest love story ever told is the story of our Lord God -- the same God in the beginning -- becoming our Saviour.
This is why Jesus is the last name given under Heaven whereby we can be saved. Jesus is the Christ that was foretold by the prophets. Jesus is the Lord God Almighty who both created us and then took on the shame of the cross so that we might have life. There is no other. Indeed, Jesus is Lord! The same begotten that came from the bosom of God for the time that He was on earth has now returned to His throne.
For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son that whosoever believes on Him should not perish but have everlasting life! The Son only while on earth where the fullness of the Godhead dwelt bodily.
Now Jesus is the King of Kings. He is the Spirit that is holy. He is the God who willingly shed His blood for our salvation. Make Jesus King in your life today. Stand in the Offering Plate!
John chapter 1 could not be any clearer and yet because of religious traditions that do not align with the scriptures, we stumble. But for what? If the Word is God and the Word became flesh, then yes, that means God became flesh and dwelt among us. The same God who created the world and all its inhabitants loved you and I so much that He became flesh and took our place of sin on the cross of Calvary. The greatest love story ever told is the story of our Lord God -- the same God in the beginning -- becoming our Saviour.
This is why Jesus is the last name given under Heaven whereby we can be saved. Jesus is the Christ that was foretold by the prophets. Jesus is the Lord God Almighty who both created us and then took on the shame of the cross so that we might have life. There is no other. Indeed, Jesus is Lord! The same begotten that came from the bosom of God for the time that He was on earth has now returned to His throne.
For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son that whosoever believes on Him should not perish but have everlasting life! The Son only while on earth where the fullness of the Godhead dwelt bodily.
Now Jesus is the King of Kings. He is the Spirit that is holy. He is the God who willingly shed His blood for our salvation. Make Jesus King in your life today. Stand in the Offering Plate!
Friday, August 3, 2012
THE LORD IS MY SHEPHERD - PART 481
Believe that through the grace of our Lord Jesus the Christ, we shall be saved. Indeed, the line between this world and the next is God's grace. The greatest love story ever told is about God's willingness to become as one of us so that we might be saved. Some might ask - saved from what? This is a fair question. Certainly, the answers to this question are as numerous as the stars. Understanding the multitude of answers can be found within the Word -- the breadth and depth of knowledge and wisdom that is inherent in the Biblical scriptures.
What you should recognize is that God works in mysterious ways. The scriptures state, "Who has known the mind of the Lord?" Who was His Councillor? In the beginning days, after Adam sinned, the Law became our custodian. The Law was like a strict governess in charge of us. That is, until we looked beyond our hopeless predicament and called in our hearts for a deliverer.
In this capacity, God was and is still the only hope for humankind. Out of our hopelessness we looked up with expectancy. It was here that faith was seeded in men's heart. So by our imprisonment that began in the Garden of Eden we have learned the defined meaning of the tree of knowledge of good and evil. And the incurred wages, we swallowed it hook, line and sinker. In other words, we could not climb out of it. At least not by ourselves.
But the good news is that we are no longer under the Law. We are not bound by the shackles and chains of this world. When you believe on the Lord Jesus the Christ you are under the new covenant of grace. The grace that was given so freely and yet unmerited. While the Law was given through angels to Moses note that God's plan of salvation, grace and truth came to us through Jesus the Christ. God in the flesh. Grace personally delivered to you and me.
Jesus said to call upon Him and He shall deliver us. Stand in the Offering Plate.
What you should recognize is that God works in mysterious ways. The scriptures state, "Who has known the mind of the Lord?" Who was His Councillor? In the beginning days, after Adam sinned, the Law became our custodian. The Law was like a strict governess in charge of us. That is, until we looked beyond our hopeless predicament and called in our hearts for a deliverer.
In this capacity, God was and is still the only hope for humankind. Out of our hopelessness we looked up with expectancy. It was here that faith was seeded in men's heart. So by our imprisonment that began in the Garden of Eden we have learned the defined meaning of the tree of knowledge of good and evil. And the incurred wages, we swallowed it hook, line and sinker. In other words, we could not climb out of it. At least not by ourselves.
But the good news is that we are no longer under the Law. We are not bound by the shackles and chains of this world. When you believe on the Lord Jesus the Christ you are under the new covenant of grace. The grace that was given so freely and yet unmerited. While the Law was given through angels to Moses note that God's plan of salvation, grace and truth came to us through Jesus the Christ. God in the flesh. Grace personally delivered to you and me.
Jesus said to call upon Him and He shall deliver us. Stand in the Offering Plate.
Thursday, August 2, 2012
THE LORD IS MY SHEPHERD - PART 480
"Verily, verily I say unto you ... he that heareth my Word and believeth on Him that sent me hath everlasting life and shall not come into condemnation but is passed from death to life." (John 5:24)
When the apostles were asked in Acts 16:30-31, "Sirs, what must we do to be saved?" the response was "Believe on the Lord Jesus the Christ and thou shalt be saved and thy house." Why? Because there is no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus, who walk not after the flesh but after His Spirit.
"He that hath my commandments and keepeth them" as written in John 14:21 "he it is that loveth me and he that loveth me shall be loved of my Father and I will love Him and will manifest myself to him." Imagine, God Almighty the Creator loving you and I so much that He would become flesh and dwell among us. And then shed His blood on a cross so that we might have salvation. All this so that we might love Him the way we were intended to love Him in the Garden.
When we compare God's love for His people to I Corinthians 13, the words don't seem to be enough. Indeed, there are days when the English language falls short in describing the breadth and depth of love God has for us. Still, I Corinthians chapter 13 serves as a starting point.
Charity [love] suffereth long. Love bears all things. Love believes all things. Love hopes all things. Love endures all things. In other words, love never fails. The love of God for His people never fails. But whether there are prophecies, they will fail. Whether there are tongues, they will cease. Whether there is knowledge, it will vanish away. For we know in part and we prophesy in part. But when that which is perfect has come, then that which is in part will be done away.
When I was a child, I spoke as a child. I understood as a child. I thought as a child, but when I became a man, I put away childish things. For now we see in a mirror dimly but then face to face. Now I know in part but then I shall know just as I also am known. And now abide faith, hope and love -- these three -- but the greatest of these is love."(I Corinthians 13:1-13)
The greatest of these is God's infinite love for His people --- you and I and our families and to all those who are afar off. Ask Jesus into your life today and stand steadfast knowing that God's love for us will never fail.
"That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised Him from the dead, thou shalt be saved. For with the heart man believes unto righteousness and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation." (Romans 10:8-10)
"Whosoever therefore shall confess Me before men, him will I confess also before My Father which is in Heaven." (Matthew 10:32)
Stand in the offering plate.
When the apostles were asked in Acts 16:30-31, "Sirs, what must we do to be saved?" the response was "Believe on the Lord Jesus the Christ and thou shalt be saved and thy house." Why? Because there is no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus, who walk not after the flesh but after His Spirit.
"He that hath my commandments and keepeth them" as written in John 14:21 "he it is that loveth me and he that loveth me shall be loved of my Father and I will love Him and will manifest myself to him." Imagine, God Almighty the Creator loving you and I so much that He would become flesh and dwell among us. And then shed His blood on a cross so that we might have salvation. All this so that we might love Him the way we were intended to love Him in the Garden.
When we compare God's love for His people to I Corinthians 13, the words don't seem to be enough. Indeed, there are days when the English language falls short in describing the breadth and depth of love God has for us. Still, I Corinthians chapter 13 serves as a starting point.
Charity [love] suffereth long. Love bears all things. Love believes all things. Love hopes all things. Love endures all things. In other words, love never fails. The love of God for His people never fails. But whether there are prophecies, they will fail. Whether there are tongues, they will cease. Whether there is knowledge, it will vanish away. For we know in part and we prophesy in part. But when that which is perfect has come, then that which is in part will be done away.
When I was a child, I spoke as a child. I understood as a child. I thought as a child, but when I became a man, I put away childish things. For now we see in a mirror dimly but then face to face. Now I know in part but then I shall know just as I also am known. And now abide faith, hope and love -- these three -- but the greatest of these is love."(I Corinthians 13:1-13)
The greatest of these is God's infinite love for His people --- you and I and our families and to all those who are afar off. Ask Jesus into your life today and stand steadfast knowing that God's love for us will never fail.
"That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised Him from the dead, thou shalt be saved. For with the heart man believes unto righteousness and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation." (Romans 10:8-10)
"Whosoever therefore shall confess Me before men, him will I confess also before My Father which is in Heaven." (Matthew 10:32)
Stand in the offering plate.
Wednesday, August 1, 2012
THE LORD IS MY SHEPHERD - PART 479
We are a chosen people! In the Old Testament and Genesis specifically, Adam and Eve had been accustomed to being blanketed by the glory of God. However, after they sinned, they "hid themselves from the presence of God." Indeed, the two hid among the trees in the Garden. (Genesis 3:8) At the time, God pronounced five separate curses and judgments.
These included: God cursed the serpent (Genesis 3:14), God pronounced judgement (Genesis 3:16) God judged Adam to a life of toil (Genesis 3:17), God cursed the ground (Genesis 3:18), and that the human race as a consequence of Adam and Eve's disobedience would know eventual death (Genesis 3:19).
But God's love story for His people does not end there. Indeed, in the midst of God's judgement is a wonderful promise of redemption. The Lord declared that He was going to send the seed of the woman to bring deliverance -- a promise fulfilled in the conquest of Jesus Christ on the cross.
These included: God cursed the serpent (Genesis 3:14), God pronounced judgement (Genesis 3:16) God judged Adam to a life of toil (Genesis 3:17), God cursed the ground (Genesis 3:18), and that the human race as a consequence of Adam and Eve's disobedience would know eventual death (Genesis 3:19).
But God's love story for His people does not end there. Indeed, in the midst of God's judgement is a wonderful promise of redemption. The Lord declared that He was going to send the seed of the woman to bring deliverance -- a promise fulfilled in the conquest of Jesus Christ on the cross.
In Genesis 3:15, the scriptures state, "And I will put enmity between you and the woman and between your seed and her Seed, He shall bruise your head and you shall bruise His heel." This is the first prophesy of the coming of Christ. Not only is this a prophecy of His birth but it is a prophecy of His work but I digress. God initiated the first blood sacrifice in Genesis 3:21 that states, "made coats of skins and clothed them." God's first sacrifice covered Adam and Even's sin with animal's blood.
From the time of Adam to the time of Christ, the scriptures are filled with accounts of how God entered into blood covenants with His people. For example:
Noah's first act after coming out of the ark (Genesis 8:20)
Abraham was told by the Lord "This is my covenant which you shall keep. Every male child among you shall be circumcised." (Genesis 17:10)
Moses after God delivered the commandments "And Moses took the blood and sprinkled it on the people." (Exodus 24:8)
Abraham and Sarah sealed their relationship by covenant and the setting apart of seven ewe lambs (Genesis 21:22-23)
Covenant between Jacob and Laban was sealed when Jacob offered a sacrifice (Genesis 31:54)
But even so, God knew that regardless of man's abilities (and capabilities) we were destined to fail. As a consequence of Adam and Eve's disobedience in the Garden, we were born sinners. As it is written, "There is none righteous, no not one (Romans 3:10). This is why the last covenant --- Jesus atoning of sin -- is the ultimate sacrifice.
While Abel's blood in the Old Testament cried out for justice to be done, the blood of Jesus -- the blood of our Lord and Saviour -- the God who loved us so much that He would become flesh and dwell among us --revealed to the world that justice has been done. Our sins are forgiven. "And to Jesus the mediator of the new covenant, and to the blood of sprinkling that speaketh better things than that of Abel." (Hebrews 12:24) Yes, as believers, we welcome Jesus the Mediator of the new covenant into our hearts. It is this promise - the promise of salvation bought and paid for by the shedding of Jesus' blood on the cross - that is freely given to us and to our children and to all those that are afar off.
Trust in Jesus today! Be filled with His glory! Stand in the Offering Plate.
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