When it comes to salvation, none of us should desire that we miss the mark. It is for this reason that I draw your attention to the nineteenth chapter of Acts. These scriptures tell us that while Apollos was at Corinth, Paul passed by -- finding in that place certain disciples.
He said unto them, "Have ye received the Holy Ghost since you believed?" And they said unto Paul, "We have not so much as heard whether there be any Holy Ghost." So, Paul asked them, "Unto what then were ye baptized?" And they responded, saying, "Unto John's baptism."
Then came the key point. Paul said, "John verily baptized with the baptism of repentance, saying unto the people, that they should believe on Him which should come after Him -- that is, on Christ Jesus." (Acts 19:4)
When they heard Paul's message, what did they do? The Word states that "they were baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus." (Acts 19:5) This is consistent with what Peter said in Acts chapter two. "Repent and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye SHALL receive the gift of the Holy Ghost." (Acts 2:38)
Did the gospel message change over time? Was Peter's message to the first 3,000 believers on the Day of Pentecost different from what Paul was later preaching to these twelve? Of course not, because when Paul "laid his hands upon them, the Holy Ghost came on them, and they [also] spake with tongues and prophesied." (Acts 19:6)
But as we see from reading on in Acts 19 that not everyone would accept Paul's message.
"And he went into the synagogue and spake boldly for the space of three months, disputing and persuading the things concerning the kingdom of God. But when divers were hardened, and believed not, but spake evil of that way before the multitude, he departed from them, and separated the disciples, disputing daily in the school of one Tyrannus. And this continued by the space of two years; so that all they which dwelt in Asia heard the word of the Lord Jesus, both Jews and Greeks." (Acts 19:8-10)
If we remember what Jesus said in other parts of His Word, He said that He would confirm the doctrines taught by signs and wonders. Herein, it was not any different. For we read, in Acts 19:11-12, the special miracles that God wrought by the hands of Paul.
"So that from his body were brought unto the sick handkerchiefs or aprons, and the diseases departed from them, and the evil spirits went out of them ... And many that believed came, and confessed, and showed their deeds. Many of them also which used curious arts brought their books together, and burned them before all men; and they counted the price of them, and found it fifty thousand pieces of silver. So mightily grew the Word of God and prevailed." (Acts 19:12-20)
Unfortunately, many of the doctrines and teachings of the apostles are being changed by the religious culture of this day as well. Baptism in Jesus name, for example, is being replaced by baptism in the titles -- a travesty given that the Roman Catholic church openly admits to changing the scriptural text in Matthew 28:19. Still, our salvation is not based on what the religious institutions and ministries of this day do or say.
As believers, we have been instructed to study the Word daily to show ourselves approved. This includes aligning our faith and beliefs to the Word -- whatever we do in word or deed, we do in the precious name of Jesus.
Paul asked the question, "Have ye received the Holy Ghost since you believed?" If our answer is the same as the twelve in Acts 19, we need to be baptized in the same way that every individual baptized in the scriptures were. That is, in the precious name of the Lord Jesus. 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, February 28, 2014
Thursday, February 27, 2014
The Kingdom of God is Within You - Part 836
Jesus answered, "My kingdom is not of this world. If My kingdom were of this world, then would My servants fight, that I should not be delivered to the Jews: but now is My kingdom not from hence." (John 18:36)
Here, Pilate had entered the judgment hall again, and called unto Jesus, and said, "Art Thou the King of the Jews?" Jesus answered him, saying, "Sayest thou this thing of thyself, or did others tell it thee of Me?" Pilate answered, "Am I a Jew? Thine own nation and the chief priests have delivered Thee unto me. What hast Thou done?"
Pilate asks Jesus the same question again. When Pilate could not get Jesus to confirm whether or not He was a king (or THE prophesied King), he asked himself, "What is truth?" He then went out again unto the Jews and said to them that he could find no fault in Jesus at all. But knowing that the Jews had a custom, he said:
"But you have a custom that I should release unto you one at the passover; will ye therefore that I release unto you the King of the Jews?" As we know the Jews cried out saying, "Not this man but Barabbas" who was a robber. (John 18:33-40)
What is interesting here is that there was no accusation to bring against Jesus. Pilate had even gone out and asked the accusers, "What accusation bring ye against this man?" Their response was this. The Jews inferred that had Jesus not been a malefactor (or offender) they would not have delivered Him to Pilate.
But Pilate knowing that no accusation had been made, told them to "Take ye Him and judge Him according to your Law." The Jews therefore said unto Pilate, "It is not lawful for us to put any man to death." This was stated so that the saying of Jesus signifying what death He should die might be fulfilled. But this is not the only time we read about Jesus speaking of His future.
In Matthew 20:17-19, for example, Jesus was going up to Jerusalem with the twelve disciples. He said unto them, "Behold, we go up to Jerusalem and the Son of man shall be betrayed unto the chief priest and unto the scribes and they shall condemn Him to death ... and shall deliver Him to the Gentiles to mock, and to scourge, and to crucify Him, and the third day, He shall rise again." (Matthew 20:17-19)
A couple of chapters later, Jesus tells His disciples, "Ye know that after two days is the feast of the passover; and the Son of man is betrayed to be crucified." In John chapter three, Jesus again shares what is about to happen to Him. That is, "And as Moses lifted up the serpent in the wilderness, even so must the Son of man be lifted up ... that whosoever believes in Him should not perish but have eternal life. For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son ..." (John 3:14-16)
John chapter eight offers even more evidence. Jesus is saying to the Jews, "Whither I go, ye cannot come ... ye are from beneath. I am from above. Ye are of this world. I am not of this world. I said therefore unto you that ye shall die in your sins; for if ye believe not that I am He, ye shall die in your sins." (John 8:20-24)
When the Jews asked Jesus, "Who art Thou?" Jesus replied, "Even the same that I said unto you from the beginning." Since the Jews did not understand that He spoke to them of the Father, He said unto them, "When ye have lifted up the Son of man, then shall ye know that I am He, and that I do nothing of Myself, but as My Father hath taught Me, I speak these things. And He that sent Me is with Me, the Father hath not left Me alone, for I do always those things that please Him." (John 8:25-29)
By the time we read about Jesus in chapter twelve, things have changed. Jesus is declaring that "the hour is come, that the Son of man should be glorified." (John 12:24) When Jesus had finished saying, "Father, glorify Thy name," and stopped speaking, what happens?
"Then came a voice from heaven, saying, "I have both glorified it, and will glorify it again." The people therefore, stood by and heard it, said that it thundered. Others said, "An angel spake to Him." (John 12:28-29)
Jesus answered, and said, "This voice came not because of Me, but for your sakes. Now is the judgement of this world. Now shall the prince of this world be cast out. And I, if I be lifted up from the earth, will draw all men unto Me."
Like many today, the people asked, "Who is this Son of man?" The same One who had performed the miracles before them and yet, did not believe on Him. This was in order that the saying of Esaias the prophet might be fulfilled, which he spake: "Lord, who hath believed our report? And to whom hath the arm of the Lord been revealed?" Therefore, they could not believe, because that Esaias said again, "He hath blinded their eyes, and hardened their heart; that they should not see with their eyes, nor understand with their heart, and be converted, and I should heal them."
Don't be like the unbelievers of this day. Note that Jesus actually cried when He said, "He that believes on Me, believes not on Me, but on Him that sent Me. And He that sees Me sees Him that sent Me. I am come a light into the world that whosoever believes on Me shall not abide in darkness. And if any man hear My words, and believe not, I judge him not, for I came not to judge the world, but to save the world." (John 12:36-47) Now that is love!
Let him who hath an ear to hear, hear. Stand in the offering plate.
Here, Pilate had entered the judgment hall again, and called unto Jesus, and said, "Art Thou the King of the Jews?" Jesus answered him, saying, "Sayest thou this thing of thyself, or did others tell it thee of Me?" Pilate answered, "Am I a Jew? Thine own nation and the chief priests have delivered Thee unto me. What hast Thou done?"
Pilate asks Jesus the same question again. When Pilate could not get Jesus to confirm whether or not He was a king (or THE prophesied King), he asked himself, "What is truth?" He then went out again unto the Jews and said to them that he could find no fault in Jesus at all. But knowing that the Jews had a custom, he said:
"But you have a custom that I should release unto you one at the passover; will ye therefore that I release unto you the King of the Jews?" As we know the Jews cried out saying, "Not this man but Barabbas" who was a robber. (John 18:33-40)
What is interesting here is that there was no accusation to bring against Jesus. Pilate had even gone out and asked the accusers, "What accusation bring ye against this man?" Their response was this. The Jews inferred that had Jesus not been a malefactor (or offender) they would not have delivered Him to Pilate.
But Pilate knowing that no accusation had been made, told them to "Take ye Him and judge Him according to your Law." The Jews therefore said unto Pilate, "It is not lawful for us to put any man to death." This was stated so that the saying of Jesus signifying what death He should die might be fulfilled. But this is not the only time we read about Jesus speaking of His future.
In Matthew 20:17-19, for example, Jesus was going up to Jerusalem with the twelve disciples. He said unto them, "Behold, we go up to Jerusalem and the Son of man shall be betrayed unto the chief priest and unto the scribes and they shall condemn Him to death ... and shall deliver Him to the Gentiles to mock, and to scourge, and to crucify Him, and the third day, He shall rise again." (Matthew 20:17-19)
A couple of chapters later, Jesus tells His disciples, "Ye know that after two days is the feast of the passover; and the Son of man is betrayed to be crucified." In John chapter three, Jesus again shares what is about to happen to Him. That is, "And as Moses lifted up the serpent in the wilderness, even so must the Son of man be lifted up ... that whosoever believes in Him should not perish but have eternal life. For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son ..." (John 3:14-16)
John chapter eight offers even more evidence. Jesus is saying to the Jews, "Whither I go, ye cannot come ... ye are from beneath. I am from above. Ye are of this world. I am not of this world. I said therefore unto you that ye shall die in your sins; for if ye believe not that I am He, ye shall die in your sins." (John 8:20-24)
When the Jews asked Jesus, "Who art Thou?" Jesus replied, "Even the same that I said unto you from the beginning." Since the Jews did not understand that He spoke to them of the Father, He said unto them, "When ye have lifted up the Son of man, then shall ye know that I am He, and that I do nothing of Myself, but as My Father hath taught Me, I speak these things. And He that sent Me is with Me, the Father hath not left Me alone, for I do always those things that please Him." (John 8:25-29)
By the time we read about Jesus in chapter twelve, things have changed. Jesus is declaring that "the hour is come, that the Son of man should be glorified." (John 12:24) When Jesus had finished saying, "Father, glorify Thy name," and stopped speaking, what happens?
"Then came a voice from heaven, saying, "I have both glorified it, and will glorify it again." The people therefore, stood by and heard it, said that it thundered. Others said, "An angel spake to Him." (John 12:28-29)
Jesus answered, and said, "This voice came not because of Me, but for your sakes. Now is the judgement of this world. Now shall the prince of this world be cast out. And I, if I be lifted up from the earth, will draw all men unto Me."
Like many today, the people asked, "Who is this Son of man?" The same One who had performed the miracles before them and yet, did not believe on Him. This was in order that the saying of Esaias the prophet might be fulfilled, which he spake: "Lord, who hath believed our report? And to whom hath the arm of the Lord been revealed?" Therefore, they could not believe, because that Esaias said again, "He hath blinded their eyes, and hardened their heart; that they should not see with their eyes, nor understand with their heart, and be converted, and I should heal them."
Don't be like the unbelievers of this day. Note that Jesus actually cried when He said, "He that believes on Me, believes not on Me, but on Him that sent Me. And He that sees Me sees Him that sent Me. I am come a light into the world that whosoever believes on Me shall not abide in darkness. And if any man hear My words, and believe not, I judge him not, for I came not to judge the world, but to save the world." (John 12:36-47) Now that is love!
Let him who hath an ear to hear, hear. Stand in the offering plate.
Wednesday, February 26, 2014
Jesus -- Whom He Hath Appointed Heir of All Things - Part 835
"Not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to His mercy He saved us, by the washing of regeneration, and renewing of the Holy Ghost -- which He shed on us abundantly through Jesus Christ our Saviour, that being justified by His grace, we should be made heirs according to the hope of eternal life." (Titus 3:5-7)
The body of Christ is made up of many members, but the head -- the chief cornerstone -- is Christ. For as we have many members in one body, and all members have not the same office, so we, being many, are one body in Christ, and every one members one of another.
This is not to suggest that all believers in Jesus by faith are one and the same. We are not. Rather, we are renewed in Christ Jesus, by the washing of regeneration and renewing of the Holy Ghost. This is why we are instructed not to be high in our conceits, because without Jesus we could do nothing.
However, being a member of the body of Christ invites us into privilege. First, we have great joy and consolation in the love of Jesus. Our sins are forgiven. We have life everlasting. And we are not only the sons and daughters of the Most High King but He invites us to be His friends too. Romans 12 gives us some insights worth noting.
"Having then gifts differing according to the grace that is given to us, whether prophecy, let us prophesy according to the proportion of faith; or ministry, let us wait on our ministering: or he that teacheth, on teaching; or he that exhorts, on exhortation: he that gives, let him do it with simplicity; he that rules, with diligence; he that shews mercy, with cheerfulness.
[Indeed], let love be without dissimulation. Abhor that which is evil. Cleave to that which is good. Be kindly affectioned one to another with brotherly love; in honour preferring one another. Not slothful in business; fervent in spirit; serving the Lord. Rejoicing in hope; patient in tribulation; continuing instant in prayer. Distributing to the necessity of saints; given to hospitality.
Bless them which persecute you: bless, and curse not. Rejoice with them that do rejoice, and weep with them that weep. Be of the same mind one toward another." (Romans 12:4-16)
Most of all remember, that in these last days, spoken unto us by His only begotten Son, whom He hath appointed heir of all things, by whom also He made the words -- who being the brightness of His glory, and the express image of His person, and upholding all things by the Word of His power, when He had by Himself purged our sins, sat down on the right hand of the Majesty on high .. being made so much better than the angels, as He hath by inheritance obtained, a more excellent name than they." (Hebrews 1:2-4)
Stand in the offering plate.
The Gospel is the Power of God Unto Salvation -- Part 834
For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ, for it is the power of God unto salvation to everyone that believes -- to the Jew first, and also to the Greek -- for therein is the righteousness of God revealed from faith to faith; as it is written, "The just shall live by faith." (Romans 1:16-17)
The book of Romans is telling -- in that anyone searching the scriptures could precisely unite both the old and new covenants together in one accord. The tenth chapter of Romans further elaborates on this point, showing that Christ IS the end of the law for righteousness to everyone that believes. Why is this important?
"For they being ignorant of God's righteousness, and going about to establish their own righteousness have not submitted unto the righteousness of God. For Christ is the END of the law for righteousness to everyone that believes." (Romans 10:3-4)
These do so even though they know that in the new covenant, salvation is the gift of God. That we who believe in Jesus by faith, and seek His righteousness, are saved by grace. "Not of works, lest any man should boast." (Ephesians 2:8-9) "Not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to His mercy He saved us, by the washing of regeneration and renewing of the Holy Ghost ..." (Titus 3:5)
"For Moses described the righteousness which is of the law -- "that the man which doeth those things shall live by them. But the righteousness which is of faith speaketh on this wise -- "say not in thine heart, who shall ascend into heaven? (That is, to bring Christ down from above?) Or who shall descend into the deep? (That is to bring up Christ again from the dead). But what saith it?
"The Word is nigh thee, even in thy mouth, and in they heart, that is, the Word of faith which we preach ... that if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and thou shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised Him from the dead, thou shalt be saved." (Romans 10:8-9)
For with the heart man believes unto righteousness, and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation -- for the scripture said, - "Whosoever believes on Him shall not be ashamed." Call upon the name of the Lord Jesus today. Stand in the offering plate.
The book of Romans is telling -- in that anyone searching the scriptures could precisely unite both the old and new covenants together in one accord. The tenth chapter of Romans further elaborates on this point, showing that Christ IS the end of the law for righteousness to everyone that believes. Why is this important?
"For they being ignorant of God's righteousness, and going about to establish their own righteousness have not submitted unto the righteousness of God. For Christ is the END of the law for righteousness to everyone that believes." (Romans 10:3-4)
These do so even though they know that in the new covenant, salvation is the gift of God. That we who believe in Jesus by faith, and seek His righteousness, are saved by grace. "Not of works, lest any man should boast." (Ephesians 2:8-9) "Not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to His mercy He saved us, by the washing of regeneration and renewing of the Holy Ghost ..." (Titus 3:5)
"For Moses described the righteousness which is of the law -- "that the man which doeth those things shall live by them. But the righteousness which is of faith speaketh on this wise -- "say not in thine heart, who shall ascend into heaven? (That is, to bring Christ down from above?) Or who shall descend into the deep? (That is to bring up Christ again from the dead). But what saith it?
"The Word is nigh thee, even in thy mouth, and in they heart, that is, the Word of faith which we preach ... that if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and thou shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised Him from the dead, thou shalt be saved." (Romans 10:8-9)
For with the heart man believes unto righteousness, and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation -- for the scripture said, - "Whosoever believes on Him shall not be ashamed." Call upon the name of the Lord Jesus today. Stand in the offering plate.
Monday, February 24, 2014
His Last Will and Testament Sealed in His Precious Blood - Part 833
“Come now and let us reason together,” saith the Lord. “though your sins be as scarlet, they shall be as white as snow. Though they be red like crimson, they shall be as wool.” (Isaiah 1:18)
Jesus loved us enough to die for us. But His intentions did not stop with the cross. In fact, when Jesus walked upon the earth, He went about doing good for those He met. As He went in the streets, He healed all those who came to Him with expectancy (faith). Remember the woman with the issue of blood? Jesus healed her and all she did was touch His clothing. But she is only one example.
Indeed, the New Testament is full of testimonials showing Jesus delivering and healing all those who came to Him by faith. How could this be? The spirit of God was in the man JESUS. Indeed, God was in Christ reconciling the world to Himself.
The God who indwelt the man JESUS the Christ is the very same today as He was in the time period of the early church. Two thousand years later, He has still not changed. For God remains the same today as He was yesterday. The same God who loved us in the very beginning devised a plan of salvation, so that our sins could be forgiven.
And, as a consequence of His plan of salvation -- to shed His precious holy blood on the cross for you and I, we can have expectancy of faith (confidence) that tomorrow this same God will remain unchanged as well. Recall at Calvary when Jesus in His sin-prone body bore all of our sin? The Bible states, "With His stripes" -- the stripes laid across His back - it is by those stripes that we receive our healing.
Therefore, just because we no longer visibly see Jesus does not mean that He is absent from us. In the first chapter of Acts, we read that the same JESUS who ascended is the same one who has once again descended. Only this time JESUS was not to be WITH man. This time, JESUS came to dwell INSIDE MAN.
"I will not leave you comfortless."
Expectant believers being baptized into His death are of God -- “raised again” -- but as new individuals, renewed both in mind and spirit. Believing persons that are grafted into His spiritual body, becoming members of His bone and of His flesh. The body of Christ.
In feature, we still bear the image of the first Adam. However, spiritually we are no longer His offspring. We have been redeemed by the blood of His Holy Spirit, which blood flowed in JESUS veins and which blood was poured from His body at Calvary (paying in full the price of our freedom). In Jesus, we have liberty.
This is why we now are the body of the same JESUS who laid down His life for us. Now He inhabits us even as He had His own natural body whilst He dwelt among us. He has bequeathed His inheritance to us. He paid the price for us once and for all. Yes, His LAST WILL and testament SEALED in His own precious blood so that we could live forever.
Let him who has ears, hear. Stand in the offering plate.
Jesus loved us enough to die for us. But His intentions did not stop with the cross. In fact, when Jesus walked upon the earth, He went about doing good for those He met. As He went in the streets, He healed all those who came to Him with expectancy (faith). Remember the woman with the issue of blood? Jesus healed her and all she did was touch His clothing. But she is only one example.
Indeed, the New Testament is full of testimonials showing Jesus delivering and healing all those who came to Him by faith. How could this be? The spirit of God was in the man JESUS. Indeed, God was in Christ reconciling the world to Himself.
The God who indwelt the man JESUS the Christ is the very same today as He was in the time period of the early church. Two thousand years later, He has still not changed. For God remains the same today as He was yesterday. The same God who loved us in the very beginning devised a plan of salvation, so that our sins could be forgiven.
And, as a consequence of His plan of salvation -- to shed His precious holy blood on the cross for you and I, we can have expectancy of faith (confidence) that tomorrow this same God will remain unchanged as well. Recall at Calvary when Jesus in His sin-prone body bore all of our sin? The Bible states, "With His stripes" -- the stripes laid across His back - it is by those stripes that we receive our healing.
Therefore, just because we no longer visibly see Jesus does not mean that He is absent from us. In the first chapter of Acts, we read that the same JESUS who ascended is the same one who has once again descended. Only this time JESUS was not to be WITH man. This time, JESUS came to dwell INSIDE MAN.
"I will not leave you comfortless."
Expectant believers being baptized into His death are of God -- “raised again” -- but as new individuals, renewed both in mind and spirit. Believing persons that are grafted into His spiritual body, becoming members of His bone and of His flesh. The body of Christ.
In feature, we still bear the image of the first Adam. However, spiritually we are no longer His offspring. We have been redeemed by the blood of His Holy Spirit, which blood flowed in JESUS veins and which blood was poured from His body at Calvary (paying in full the price of our freedom). In Jesus, we have liberty.
This is why we now are the body of the same JESUS who laid down His life for us. Now He inhabits us even as He had His own natural body whilst He dwelt among us. He has bequeathed His inheritance to us. He paid the price for us once and for all. Yes, His LAST WILL and testament SEALED in His own precious blood so that we could live forever.
Let him who has ears, hear. Stand in the offering plate.
Sunday, February 23, 2014
Be Ye Doers of the Word - Part 832
Know
therefore that the LORD thy God -- He is God -- the faithful
God which keeps covenant and mercy with them that love Him. We are “a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, an holy nation, a peculiar
people; that [we] should show forth the praises of Him who hath called [us] out
of darkness into His marvellous light; which
in time past were not a people, but are now the people of God: which had not
obtained mercy, but now have obtained mercy.” (I Peter 2:9-10)
In this context, the Ten Commandments and/or Leviticus Law
as many in the religious culture of this day would have us believe are not the
commandments for this current generation. Indeed, Jesus gave only two
commandments for His people. That is, we are to love the Lord thy God with all
our heart ... with all our soul ... with all our mind and strength, and second,
to love our neighbour as our self. “On
these two commandments,” said Jesus, “hang ALL the law and the prophets." (Matthew
22:40)
This is a critical point, because there are those (both inside and outside the church) who would have us living our lives based solely on old covenant law. These do not understand that we currently live in the dispensation of grace whereby the veil between God and man was torn from top to bottom once and for all because of Jesus’ sacrifice on the cross. And these do not comprehend that salvation is a gift of God that came about because of His abundance of love and mercy for His people. (Ephesians 2:8-9)
In fact, the scriptures are clear on this point. There is
nothing we can do to earn salvation. Nothing! Why? “For all have sinned and
fallen short of the glory of God.” (Romans 3:23) The scriptures in Matthew 22
and Mark 12 expand on this point.
"But when the
Pharisees had heard that [Jesus] had put the Sadducees to silence, they were
gathered together. Then one of them, a lawyer, asked Him a question,
tempting Him, and saying, "Master, which is the great commandment in the
law?"
Jesus said unto him, "Thou shalt love the Lord thy God
with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind. This is
the first and great commandment. And the second is like unto it, Thou shalt
love thy neighbour as thyself. On these two commandments hang ALL the law and
the prophets." (Matthew 22:40)
The same example is repeated again in Mark 12:18-32. Herein, Jesus is speaking unto them in
parables. He is sharing a parable about a certain man that plants a vineyard.
This man sets a hedge about it, digging a place for the wine fat, and then
builds a tower. He lets it out to husbandmen, and travels into a far country.
And at the season, he sent to the husbandman a servant that he might receive
from the husbandmen of the fruit of the vineyard. And they caught him, and beat
him, and sent him away empty.
When Jesus finishes this parable, "one of the scribes
came, and having heard them reasoning together, and perceiving that He had
answered them well, asked [Jesus], "Which is the first commandment of
all?"
And Jesus answered him, "The
first of all the commandments is, "Hear, O Israel; The Lord our God is one
Lord and thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy
soul, and with all thy mind, and with all thy strength. This is the first
commandment. And the second is like, namely this,
Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself. There is none other commandment
greater than these." (Mark 12:28-34)
And the
scribe said unto Him, "Well, Master, thou hast said the truth: for there
is one God; and there is none other but He, and to love Him with all the heart,
and with all the understanding, and with all the soul, and with all the
strength, and to love neighbour as himself, is more than all whole burnt
offerings and sacrifices."
And when
Jesus saw that he answered discreetly, He said unto him, “Thou art not far from
the kingdom of God.” And no man after that durst ask Him any question.
(Mark 12:29-34) But Jesus did not stop preaching. What happens next?
And Jesus answered and said, while He
taught in the temple, “How say the scribes that Christ is the Son of David?
For David himself said by the Holy
Ghost, “The LORD said to my Lord, Sit thou on my right hand, till I make thine
enemies thy footstool.” David therefore himself called Him
Lord; and whence is He His son?” And the common people heard him gladly.
And He said unto them in His
doctrine, “Beware of the scribes, which love to go in long clothing, and love salutations
in the marketplaces, and the chief seats in the
synagogues, and the uppermost rooms at feasts: which devour widows' houses, and for a
pretence make long prayers: these shall receive greater damnation.”
And Jesus sat over against the
treasury, and beheld how the people cast money into the treasury: and many that
were rich cast in much. [But] there came a certain poor
widow, and she threw in two mites, which make a farthing. And He called unto Him His
disciples, and said unto them, “Verily I say unto you that this poor widow hath
cast more in, than all they which have cast into the treasury. For
all they did cast in of their abundance; but she of her want
did cast in all that she had, even all her living.” (Mark
12:35-44) Now that is standing in the offering plate.
Indeed,
there are so many lessons that we need to know from Mark 12 that I have copied
the entire chapter below for your edification.
“And He began to speak unto them by
parables. “A certain man planted a vineyard, and set an
hedge about it, and digged a place for the
winefat, and built a tower, and let it out to husbandmen, and went into a far
country. And at the season he sent to the
husbandmen a servant, that he might receive from the husbandmen of the fruit of
the vineyard. And they caught him,
and beat him, and sent him away empty.
And again he sent unto them another
servant; and at him they cast stones, and wounded him in the
head, and sent him away shamefully handled. And again he sent another; and him
they killed, and many others; beating some, and killing some. Having yet therefore one son, his
well- beloved, he sent him also last unto them, saying, “They will reverence my
son.”
But those husbandmen said among
themselves, “This is the heir; come, let us kill him, and the inheritance shall
be ours.” And they took him, and killed him,
and cast him out of the vineyard.
What shall therefore the lord of the vineyard
do? [Good question!] He will come and destroy the husbandmen, and will give the
vineyard unto others.” (Mark 12:1-9)
Then
Jesus said, “Have ye not read this scripture? The
stone which the builders rejected is become the Head of the corner. This was the Lord's doing, and it is
marvellous in our eyes?”
And they sought to lay hold on Him,
but feared the people: for they knew that He had spoken the parable against
them: and they left Him, and went their way. And they send unto Him certain of the
Pharisees and of the Herodians, to catch Him in His words.
And when they were come, they say
unto him, “Master, we know that Thou art true, and carest for no man: for Thou
regards not the person of men, but teaches the way of God in truth.
Is it lawful to give tribute to
Caesar, or not? Shall we give, or shall we not give?”
But He, knowing their hypocrisy, said unto them, “Why tempt ye me? Bring me a
penny, that I may see it.” And they brought it.
And He said unto them, “Whose is this image and
superscription?” And they said unto him, “Caesar's.”
And Jesus answering, said unto them, “Render
to Caesar the things that are Caesar's, and to God the things that are God's.”
And they marvelled at Him. Then come unto Him the Sadducees,
which say there is no resurrection; and they asked Him, saying,
“Master, Moses wrote unto us, If a
man's brother die, and leave his wife behind him,
and leave no children, that his brother should take his wife, and raise up seed
unto his brother.” Now there were seven brethren: and
the first took a wife, and dying left no seed. And the second took her, and died,
neither left he any seed: and the third likewise. And the seven had her, and left no
seed: last of all the woman died also. In the resurrection therefore, when
they shall rise, whose wife shall she be of them? For the seven had her to
wife.”
And Jesus answering said unto them, “Do ye not therefore err, because ye know
not the scriptures, neither the power of God? For when they shall rise from the
dead, they neither marry, nor are given in marriage; but are as the angels
which are in heaven. And as touching the dead, that they
rise: have ye not read in the book of Moses, how in the bush God spoke unto
him, saying, “I am the God of Abraham, and the God of Isaac, and
the God of Jacob?” He is not the God of the dead, but
the God of the living: ye therefore do greatly err.”
And one of the scribes came, and
having heard them reasoning together, and perceiving that He had answered them
well, asked Him, “Which is the first commandment of all?”
And Jesus answered him, “The first of
all the commandments is, Hear, O Israel; The Lord our God is one
Lord. And thou shalt love the Lord thy God
with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind, and with all
thy strength: this is the first commandment. And the second is like, namely this,
“Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself. There is none other commandment
greater than these.”
And the scribe said unto Him, “Well,
Master, Thou hast said the truth: for there is one God; and there is none other
but He and to love Him with all the heart,
and with all the understanding, and with all the soul, and with all the
strength, and to love his neighbour as himself, is more than
all whole burnt offerings and sacrifices.”
And when
Jesus saw that he answered discreetly, He said unto him, “Thou art not far from
the kingdom of God.” And no man after that durst ask him any question.
And Jesus answered and said, while he
taught in the temple, “How say the scribes that Christ is the Son of David?
For David himself said by the Holy
Ghost, “The LORD said to my Lord, “Sit Thou on my right hand, till I make Thine
enemies thy footstool.
David therefore himself called Him
Lord; and whence is He then His son? And the common people
heard him gladly. And He said unto them in His
doctrine, “Beware of the scribes, which love to go in long clothing, and love salutations
in the marketplaces, and the chief seats in the synagogues,
and the uppermost rooms at feasts: which devour widows' houses, and for
a pretence make long prayers: these shall receive greater damnation.”
And Jesus sat over against the
treasury, and beheld how the people cast money into the treasury: and many that
were rich cast in much. And there came a certain poor widow,
and she threw in two mites, which make a farthing. And He called unto Him His
disciples, and saith unto them, “Verily I say unto you, That this poor widow
hath cast more in, than all they which have cast into the treasury.”
“For all they did cast in of their
abundance; but she of her want did cast in all that she had, even all
her living.”
Praise Jesus today. Like the certain poor widow that Jesus noticed most in this scriptural passage -- still noticing even when Jesus was surrounded by those that were rich -- know that Jesus seeks our heart. Therefore, cast all your burdens and worldly cares upon Him. Why? Because our Lord God and Saviour Jesus never fails!
Praise Jesus today. Like the certain poor widow that Jesus noticed most in this scriptural passage -- still noticing even when Jesus was surrounded by those that were rich -- know that Jesus seeks our heart. Therefore, cast all your burdens and worldly cares upon Him. Why? Because our Lord God and Saviour Jesus never fails!
Having a Form of Godliness But Denying the Power Thereof - Part 831
Jesus was very clear in the gospels
about what we could expect in both our church community and society within the
last days. He warned us of perilous times and how men shall be lovers of their
own selves -- covetous, boasters, proud, blasphemers, uncaring and unthankful
-- just to name a few of the negative characteristics that we see emerging
within society today.
Even though the Lord Jesus shows us a
better way, we are witnessing a breakdown in the social fabric from attitudes
that are not focussed on standing on the teachings of the good news gospel in
the new covenant. (II Timothy 3:1-4) As such, believers are warned of
those who are traitors and false accusers -- the wolves in sheep's clothing
that enter into our church communities unawares. Indeed, the scriptures
state:
"Having a form of godliness but
denying the power thereof, from such, turn away. For of this sort are they
which creep into houses, and lead silly women laden with sins away with
divers lusts -- ever learning
and never able to come to the knowledge of the truth." (II Timothy 3:5)
Just as Jannes and
Jambres withstood Moses in the Old Testament, so do these also resist the truth
in these last days. Indeed, the scriptures call them "men of corrupt minds
reprobate concerning the faith."
Thankfully, the
scriptures state that they shall proceed no further for their folly shall
be manifest unto all men, as theirs also was. The problem is
that in the interim, good men and women get hurt along the way. Young
Christians who are not yet grounded in the Word (and do not understand that
there would be false people within their midst) begin believing that these are
representative of the few, without realizing that these are evil men and
seducers that "shall wax worse and worse, deceiving and being
deceived."
What can we do? We
need to become fully grounded in the Word. Study the Word to show thyself approved.
Learn what Jesus actually said (instead of accepting the words of eloquent men)
and commit these same teachings to your heart.
As Timothy wrote
... when "thou hast fully known my doctrine, manner of life, purpose,
faith, longsuffering, charity, patience, persecutions, afflictions, which came
unto me at Antioch, at Iconium, at Lystra; what persecutions I endured"
then you can be confident in the Lord Jesus Christ -- our Lord God
and Saviour -- for deliverance too.
"Yea, and
all that will live godly in Christ Jesus shall suffer persecution. But
continue thou in the things which thou hast learned and hast been assured of,
knowing of whom thou hast learned them; and that from a child
thou hast known the holy scriptures, which are able to make thee wise unto
salvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus.
Friday, February 21, 2014
Truly the Signs of An Apostle - Part 830
After the Lord ascended into Heaven, He [JESUS] through His holy Spirit gave commandments to His apostles whom He had chosen. These twelve apostles were to be His witnesses to the uttermost part of the earth.
Note: According to scripture, an apostle is one to whom the Word of God comes forth from. One is not an apostle because he or she quotes Bible scripture eloquently. One is not an apostle because they self-appoint themselves (or by extension, the religious culture/institution appoints them).
So that begs the question. In these last days whereby the emergence of false prophets is seemingly everywhere (and multiplying daily), how can we recognize the works of a true apostle -- an apostle appointed by our Lord God and Saviour?
First, we study His Word for our learning. Seek ye first the Kingdom of God. Then we ask for His guidance and understanding in spiritual matters. Remember when Jesus told the disciples that the message in the parables was given specifically to them? What was He saying? That as you seek Him, a clarity and understanding evolves in the knowledge and wisdom you receive, that makes you want to know more.
Jesus said, "Howbeit when He, the Spirit of truth, is come, He will guide you into all truth: for He shall not speak of Himself; but whatsoever He shall hear, that shall He speak: and He will shew you things to come." (John 16:13)
So it is in the Word that we learn about apostles. In II Corinthians 12:12, the Word states: "Truly the signs of an apostle were wrought among you in patience, in signs, and wonders, and mighty deeds."
Further, in Acts, the Word states: "And by the hands of the apostles were many signs and wonders wrought among the people; (and they were all with one accord in Solomon's porch. And of the rest durst no man join himself to them: but the people magnified them. And believers were the more added to the Lord, multitudes both of men and women.) Insomuch that they brought forth the sick into the streets, and laid [them] on beds and couches, that at the least the shadow of Peter passing by might overshadow some of them. There came also a multitude [out] of the cities round about unto Jerusalem, bringing sick folks, and them which were vexed with unclean spirits: and they were healed every one." (Acts 5:12-42)
How did this happen? Because the apostles understood who God was. His identity. His name. These knew that Jesus was God in the flesh -- yes, the same God who commands the universe willingly shed His precious blood on a cross for you and I, so that we could be forgiven of our sins. These did not deny Jesus -- the Lord of lords and King of kings, nor did they deny His name. We are instructed in everything that we do in word or deed, to do in the name of Jesus, including water baptism. (Acts 2:38-42) And as such, they continued steadfastly in the apostles doctrine ... "built upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Jesus Christ Himself being the chief cornerstone." (Ephesians 2:20)
Today, we have all sorts of messages emanating from a range of religious organizations and institutions. Much of the time, the messages portrayed are totally devoid concerning the scriptural message that was delivered to the early believers from the appointed apostles. In fact, many do not call God by His name. Do they even know that Jesus is His name? That Jesus is the name of the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit?
Regardless, as a consequence, God has enforced their unbelief by sending to these religions an even stronger delusion than one could ever have dreamed of, causing them to believe a lie. This is why we can say that the world through worldly wisdom knows nothing concerning the Lord. Indeed, so dark is their understanding of God that they call evil as enlightenment -- calling light darkness and darkness light.
Still, God has never been willing that anyone should perish. This is why God veiled Himself in flesh and laid down His life so that we could embrace redemption and be saved. God was in the world. He made you and me. And today, the wisdom of God is displayed everywhere crying out, "I AM the LORD YOUR GOD, YOUR SAVIOUR! Though your sins be dark, I will forgive you if you will only return to Me."
Jesus said, "I am the way, the truth and the life." There is no other way. I am the door. There is no other door! I am the Good Shepherd. I gave My life for you! Call upon Me and I will deliver you. I send My Word to you! Only believe and receive from Me the gift of Eternal Life. The keys to the Kingdom.
Paul said, "Behold, the third time I am ready to come to you; and I will not be burdensome to you: for I seek not yours -- but you." (II Corinthians 12:14) Stand in the offering plate.
Note: According to scripture, an apostle is one to whom the Word of God comes forth from. One is not an apostle because he or she quotes Bible scripture eloquently. One is not an apostle because they self-appoint themselves (or by extension, the religious culture/institution appoints them).
So that begs the question. In these last days whereby the emergence of false prophets is seemingly everywhere (and multiplying daily), how can we recognize the works of a true apostle -- an apostle appointed by our Lord God and Saviour?
First, we study His Word for our learning. Seek ye first the Kingdom of God. Then we ask for His guidance and understanding in spiritual matters. Remember when Jesus told the disciples that the message in the parables was given specifically to them? What was He saying? That as you seek Him, a clarity and understanding evolves in the knowledge and wisdom you receive, that makes you want to know more.
Jesus said, "Howbeit when He, the Spirit of truth, is come, He will guide you into all truth: for He shall not speak of Himself; but whatsoever He shall hear, that shall He speak: and He will shew you things to come." (John 16:13)
So it is in the Word that we learn about apostles. In II Corinthians 12:12, the Word states: "Truly the signs of an apostle were wrought among you in patience, in signs, and wonders, and mighty deeds."
Further, in Acts, the Word states: "And by the hands of the apostles were many signs and wonders wrought among the people; (and they were all with one accord in Solomon's porch. And of the rest durst no man join himself to them: but the people magnified them. And believers were the more added to the Lord, multitudes both of men and women.) Insomuch that they brought forth the sick into the streets, and laid [them] on beds and couches, that at the least the shadow of Peter passing by might overshadow some of them. There came also a multitude [out] of the cities round about unto Jerusalem, bringing sick folks, and them which were vexed with unclean spirits: and they were healed every one." (Acts 5:12-42)
How did this happen? Because the apostles understood who God was. His identity. His name. These knew that Jesus was God in the flesh -- yes, the same God who commands the universe willingly shed His precious blood on a cross for you and I, so that we could be forgiven of our sins. These did not deny Jesus -- the Lord of lords and King of kings, nor did they deny His name. We are instructed in everything that we do in word or deed, to do in the name of Jesus, including water baptism. (Acts 2:38-42) And as such, they continued steadfastly in the apostles doctrine ... "built upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Jesus Christ Himself being the chief cornerstone." (Ephesians 2:20)
Moreover, "when Jesus had called unto [Him] His twelve disciples, He gave them power [against] unclean spirits, to cast them out, and to heal all manner of sickness and all manner of disease ... These twelve Jesus sent forth, and commanded them, saying, "Go not into the way of the Gentiles, and into [any] city of the Samaritans enter ye not: But go rather to the lost sheep of the house of Israel. And as ye go, preach, saying, "The kingdom of heaven is at hand. Heal the sick, cleanse the lepers, raise the dead, cast out devils: freely ye have received, freely give ... And ye shall be hated of all [men] for my name's sake: but he that endureth to the end shall be saved." (Matthew 10; Luke 9)
But Saul/Paul who we read about yesterday, was chosen of the Lord to be an apostle of Jesus Christ to the Gentiles (non Jews) as well. (In this dispensation, we are the Gentiles). Paul did not receive nor was he instructed in the gospel message from other men. Instead, Paul received the gospel message through the gift of revelation (which is one of the nine gifts of the Spirit). These are the same gifts explained in I Corinthians 11-13 and the edifying gifts believers are encouraged to desire.
Believers like you and me receive the Word of God as taught by the chosen apostles of the Lord. The Word of the holy Spirit which is the Word of God was coming forth from Paul. We know this to be true because God confirmed His Word. Recall that Paul declared that if any man think himself to be an apostle or a spiritual person , then he or she should acknowledge that the things which he spoke of are/were the commandments of the Lord.Today, we have all sorts of messages emanating from a range of religious organizations and institutions. Much of the time, the messages portrayed are totally devoid concerning the scriptural message that was delivered to the early believers from the appointed apostles. In fact, many do not call God by His name. Do they even know that Jesus is His name? That Jesus is the name of the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit?
Regardless, as a consequence, God has enforced their unbelief by sending to these religions an even stronger delusion than one could ever have dreamed of, causing them to believe a lie. This is why we can say that the world through worldly wisdom knows nothing concerning the Lord. Indeed, so dark is their understanding of God that they call evil as enlightenment -- calling light darkness and darkness light.
Still, God has never been willing that anyone should perish. This is why God veiled Himself in flesh and laid down His life so that we could embrace redemption and be saved. God was in the world. He made you and me. And today, the wisdom of God is displayed everywhere crying out, "I AM the LORD YOUR GOD, YOUR SAVIOUR! Though your sins be dark, I will forgive you if you will only return to Me."
Jesus said, "I am the way, the truth and the life." There is no other way. I am the door. There is no other door! I am the Good Shepherd. I gave My life for you! Call upon Me and I will deliver you. I send My Word to you! Only believe and receive from Me the gift of Eternal Life. The keys to the Kingdom.
When you do, you become "the body of Christ, and members in particular. And God hath set some in the church, first apostles, secondarily prophets, thirdly teachers, after that miracles, then gifts of healings, helps, governments, diversities of tongues. Are all apostles? Are all prophets? Are all teachers? Are all workers of miracles? Have all the gifts of healing? Do all speak with tongues? Do all interpret? But covet earnestly the best gifts: and yet shew I unto you a more excellent way." (I Corinthians 12:27-31)
"That which was from the beginning, which we have heard, which we have seen with our eyes, which we have looked upon, and our hands have handled, of the Word of life; (For the life was manifested, and we have seen [it], and bear witness, and shew unto you that eternal life, which was with the Father, and was manifested unto us;)
Therefore, do not believe those who do not preach the Word in its entirety, "for such [are] false apostles, deceitful workers, transforming themselves into the apostles of Christ." (II Peter 2; I John 4; Matthew 7; John 8:44) These lack the signs and wonders that confirm that these are speaking the truth, as outlined in the scriptures. For as believers in Jesus Christ our Lord, "we have not followed cunningly devised fables, when we made known unto you the power and coming of our Lord Jesus Christ, but were eyewitnesses of His majesty." (II Peter 1:16)Paul said, "Behold, the third time I am ready to come to you; and I will not be burdensome to you: for I seek not yours -- but you." (II Corinthians 12:14) Stand in the offering plate.
Thursday, February 20, 2014
Jesus, What Will Ye Have Me Do? - Part 829
When many of us think about Saul/Paul, the moment that stands out most is his moment of conversion -- when Jesus met him on the road to Damascus. Before that, he was known for seeking out and killing Christians.
"And Saul, yet breathing out threatenings and slaughter against the disciples of the Lord, went unto the high priest, and desired of him letters to Damascus to the synagogues, that if he found any of this way, whether they were men or women, he might bring them bound unto Jerusalem." (Acts 9:1-2)
But something happens as he journey to Damascus. Suddenly, there shined round about him a light from heaven, and he fell to the earth, and heard a voice saying unto him, "Saul, Saul, why persecutest thou me?" And he said, "Who art thou, Lord?"
And the Lord said, "I am Jesus whom thou persecutest: it is hard for thee to kick against the pricks."
And Saul trembling and astonished said, "Lord, what wilt thou have me to do?"
And the Lord said unto him, "Arise, and go into the city, and it shall be told thee what thou must do."
While this dialogue between Jesus the King of kings and Saul, who diligently sought Christians to kill them is occurring, "the men which journeyed with [Saul] stood speechless, hearing a voice, but seeing no man." (Acts 9:7) I can only imagine what these men were thinking. Here was Saul, the man who seemingly was above fear on every level, trembling on the roadside talking to someone that they could not see.
When Saul arose from the earth, and his eyes were opened, he saw what the men travelling with him saw. That is, no man. So they led him by the hand, and brought him into Damascus. Therein, Saul remains in a room praying for three days and three nights. But he wasn't only praying. He prayed there continuously without eating, which in and of itself shows the intensity and seriousness of the spiritual transformation that was transpiring within Saul. At some point within this three day period, he saw a vision that responds to his question, "What will you have me do?"
It does not end there. As the scriptures state, the Lord JESUS had at the same time appeared in a vision to one of His disciples who lived in the same city in which Saul was praying. In the vision, the Lord calls the disciple Ananias by name.
Ananias replied, "Here I am Lord." The Lord then instructed Ananias to go to a street called ‘Strait.' He was told that when he got there, he would find a man named Saul praying. Ananias said to the Lord that he had heard from many of how Saul persecuted all those who worshipped Jesus, even those who called upon His name. Is this the same Saul?
"Go thy way: for he is a chosen vessel unto Me, to bear My name before the Gentiles, and kings, and the children of Israel: for I will shew him how great things he must suffer for My name's sake." (Acts 9:15-16)
Knowing Ananias' thoughts, the Lord was revealing to him that Saul was a chosen vessel who would in the future bear His name to the Gentiles and to the children of Israel. And, that Saul was to suffer many things as he fulfilled Jesus' purpose and plan for his life. So without hesitation, Ananias sets forth as instructed in the vision.
Ananias arrives at the house of Judas, requesting to see Saul of Tarsus. He is brought to the room where Saul is still on his knees praying. Ananias walks into the room and declares, "Brother Saul, the Lord JESUS who appeared to you as you journeyed has sent me to you so that you might have your sight restored, and be filled with the Holy Spirit."
Ananias then lays his hands upon Saul. At that moment, from Saul’s eyes fell scales - so to speak. The spiritual blindness that had kept Saul in darkness was being removed. Ananias then directs Saul to arise and be baptized, washing away his sins whilst calling upon the name of the Lord JESUS!
Saul obediently obeys the command. Indeed, there was no hesitancy in his response. In fact, instantaneously Saul is baptized in water identifying that he is also one of those JESUS people whom he had previously terrorized in the name of his religion. This same religion which was determined by man's authority to eradicate all who should dare call upon the name of JESUS.
Saul, being fully persuaded now willingly joins the ranks of those who were also of like mind, having also been fully persuaded of God that JESUS is the Christ - the only begotten Son of the Holy Spirit SEED. Christ the blessing afore promised to Abraham - that in the SEED of the Holy Spirit will all the nations of the earth be blessed. Not blessed in Abraham's natural seed - which seed as all other natural seeds of Adam’s offspring is sin prone seed but in a new SEED - a SEED that is pure, holy, and undefiled. Which SEED is the manifestation of God in flesh - the lamb of God (child) which through His willing sacrificial death at Golgotha (Hebrew) or the place of a skull (Greek) should be the end of all sacrificial offerings for sin!
Most of us at one time or another may have been a Saul -- nurtured as a member in an institutionalized religion or religious culture which was (and perhaps still is) foreign to the truth and light of the knowledge of God. As we read in Saul's situation, God's intervention unravelled Saul (and similarly us) from our religious entanglement.
What does this mean? Note that many say they believe in God. In fact, the devils believe there is a God and these tremble. But so did Saul. He knew there was a God. He just didn't know His name. So when God introduced Himself to Saul on his way to Damascus, what did He say?
He said, ‘I AM JESUS.’
"And immediately there fell from his eyes as it had been scales: and he received sight forthwith, and arose, and was baptized. And when [Saul] had received meat, he was strengthened. Then was Saul certain days with the disciples which were at Damascus. And straightway he preached Christ in the synagogues, that he is the Son of God.
But all that heard him were amazed, and said; "Is not this he that destroyed them which called on this name in Jerusalem, and came hither for that intent, that he might bring them bound unto the chief priests?"
But Saul increased the more in strength, and confounded the Jews which dwelt at Damascus, proving that this is very Christ. And after that many days were fulfilled, the Jews took counsel to kill him. But their laying await was known of Saul. And they watched the gates day and night to kill him.
Then the disciples took him by night, and let him down by the wall in a basket. And when Saul was come to Jerusalem, he assayed to join himself to the disciples: but they were all afraid of him, and believed not that he was a disciple.
But Barnabas took him, and brought him to the apostles, and declared unto them how he had seen the Lord in the way, and that he had spoken to him, and how he had preached boldly at Damascus in the name of Jesus.
And he was with them coming in and going out at Jerusalem. And he spake boldly in the name of the Lord Jesus, and disputed against the Grecians: but they went about to slay him. Which when the brethren knew, they brought him down to Caesarea, and sent him forth to Tarsus. Then had the churches rest throughout all Judaea and Galilee and Samaria, and were edified; and walking in the fear of the Lord, and in the comfort of the Holy Ghost, were multiplied." (Acts 9:18-31)
Like Saul, who later became Paul, we need to ask Jesus the same question -- "Jesus, what will ye have me to do?" His response might surprise you. Stand in the offering plate.
"And Saul, yet breathing out threatenings and slaughter against the disciples of the Lord, went unto the high priest, and desired of him letters to Damascus to the synagogues, that if he found any of this way, whether they were men or women, he might bring them bound unto Jerusalem." (Acts 9:1-2)
But something happens as he journey to Damascus. Suddenly, there shined round about him a light from heaven, and he fell to the earth, and heard a voice saying unto him, "Saul, Saul, why persecutest thou me?" And he said, "Who art thou, Lord?"
And the Lord said, "I am Jesus whom thou persecutest: it is hard for thee to kick against the pricks."
And Saul trembling and astonished said, "Lord, what wilt thou have me to do?"
And the Lord said unto him, "Arise, and go into the city, and it shall be told thee what thou must do."
While this dialogue between Jesus the King of kings and Saul, who diligently sought Christians to kill them is occurring, "the men which journeyed with [Saul] stood speechless, hearing a voice, but seeing no man." (Acts 9:7) I can only imagine what these men were thinking. Here was Saul, the man who seemingly was above fear on every level, trembling on the roadside talking to someone that they could not see.
When Saul arose from the earth, and his eyes were opened, he saw what the men travelling with him saw. That is, no man. So they led him by the hand, and brought him into Damascus. Therein, Saul remains in a room praying for three days and three nights. But he wasn't only praying. He prayed there continuously without eating, which in and of itself shows the intensity and seriousness of the spiritual transformation that was transpiring within Saul. At some point within this three day period, he saw a vision that responds to his question, "What will you have me do?"
It does not end there. As the scriptures state, the Lord JESUS had at the same time appeared in a vision to one of His disciples who lived in the same city in which Saul was praying. In the vision, the Lord calls the disciple Ananias by name.
Ananias replied, "Here I am Lord." The Lord then instructed Ananias to go to a street called ‘Strait.' He was told that when he got there, he would find a man named Saul praying. Ananias said to the Lord that he had heard from many of how Saul persecuted all those who worshipped Jesus, even those who called upon His name. Is this the same Saul?
"Go thy way: for he is a chosen vessel unto Me, to bear My name before the Gentiles, and kings, and the children of Israel: for I will shew him how great things he must suffer for My name's sake." (Acts 9:15-16)
Knowing Ananias' thoughts, the Lord was revealing to him that Saul was a chosen vessel who would in the future bear His name to the Gentiles and to the children of Israel. And, that Saul was to suffer many things as he fulfilled Jesus' purpose and plan for his life. So without hesitation, Ananias sets forth as instructed in the vision.
Ananias arrives at the house of Judas, requesting to see Saul of Tarsus. He is brought to the room where Saul is still on his knees praying. Ananias walks into the room and declares, "Brother Saul, the Lord JESUS who appeared to you as you journeyed has sent me to you so that you might have your sight restored, and be filled with the Holy Spirit."
Ananias then lays his hands upon Saul. At that moment, from Saul’s eyes fell scales - so to speak. The spiritual blindness that had kept Saul in darkness was being removed. Ananias then directs Saul to arise and be baptized, washing away his sins whilst calling upon the name of the Lord JESUS!
Saul obediently obeys the command. Indeed, there was no hesitancy in his response. In fact, instantaneously Saul is baptized in water identifying that he is also one of those JESUS people whom he had previously terrorized in the name of his religion. This same religion which was determined by man's authority to eradicate all who should dare call upon the name of JESUS.
Saul, being fully persuaded now willingly joins the ranks of those who were also of like mind, having also been fully persuaded of God that JESUS is the Christ - the only begotten Son of the Holy Spirit SEED. Christ the blessing afore promised to Abraham - that in the SEED of the Holy Spirit will all the nations of the earth be blessed. Not blessed in Abraham's natural seed - which seed as all other natural seeds of Adam’s offspring is sin prone seed but in a new SEED - a SEED that is pure, holy, and undefiled. Which SEED is the manifestation of God in flesh - the lamb of God (child) which through His willing sacrificial death at Golgotha (Hebrew) or the place of a skull (Greek) should be the end of all sacrificial offerings for sin!
Most of us at one time or another may have been a Saul -- nurtured as a member in an institutionalized religion or religious culture which was (and perhaps still is) foreign to the truth and light of the knowledge of God. As we read in Saul's situation, God's intervention unravelled Saul (and similarly us) from our religious entanglement.
What does this mean? Note that many say they believe in God. In fact, the devils believe there is a God and these tremble. But so did Saul. He knew there was a God. He just didn't know His name. So when God introduced Himself to Saul on his way to Damascus, what did He say?
He said, ‘I AM JESUS.’
"And immediately there fell from his eyes as it had been scales: and he received sight forthwith, and arose, and was baptized. And when [Saul] had received meat, he was strengthened. Then was Saul certain days with the disciples which were at Damascus. And straightway he preached Christ in the synagogues, that he is the Son of God.
But all that heard him were amazed, and said; "Is not this he that destroyed them which called on this name in Jerusalem, and came hither for that intent, that he might bring them bound unto the chief priests?"
But Saul increased the more in strength, and confounded the Jews which dwelt at Damascus, proving that this is very Christ. And after that many days were fulfilled, the Jews took counsel to kill him. But their laying await was known of Saul. And they watched the gates day and night to kill him.
Then the disciples took him by night, and let him down by the wall in a basket. And when Saul was come to Jerusalem, he assayed to join himself to the disciples: but they were all afraid of him, and believed not that he was a disciple.
But Barnabas took him, and brought him to the apostles, and declared unto them how he had seen the Lord in the way, and that he had spoken to him, and how he had preached boldly at Damascus in the name of Jesus.
And he was with them coming in and going out at Jerusalem. And he spake boldly in the name of the Lord Jesus, and disputed against the Grecians: but they went about to slay him. Which when the brethren knew, they brought him down to Caesarea, and sent him forth to Tarsus. Then had the churches rest throughout all Judaea and Galilee and Samaria, and were edified; and walking in the fear of the Lord, and in the comfort of the Holy Ghost, were multiplied." (Acts 9:18-31)
Like Saul, who later became Paul, we need to ask Jesus the same question -- "Jesus, what will ye have me to do?" His response might surprise you. Stand in the offering plate.
Tuesday, February 18, 2014
Need That One Teach Again the First Principle of the Oracles of God - Part 828
Reading from Hebrews chapter five ...
"For every high priest taken from among men is ordained for men in things pertaining to God, that he may offer both gifts and sacrifices for sins: who can have compassion on the ignorant, and on them that are out of the way; for that he himself also is compassed with infirmity.
And by reason hereof he ought, as for the people, so also for himself, to offer for sins. And no man takes this honour unto himself, but he that is called of God, as was Aaron.
"For every high priest taken from among men is ordained for men in things pertaining to God, that he may offer both gifts and sacrifices for sins: who can have compassion on the ignorant, and on them that are out of the way; for that he himself also is compassed with infirmity.
And by reason hereof he ought, as for the people, so also for himself, to offer for sins. And no man takes this honour unto himself, but he that is called of God, as was Aaron.
So also Christ glorified not Himself to be made an high priest; but He that said unto Him, "Thou art my Son, to day have I begotten thee." As He saith also in another place, "Thou art a priest for ever after the order of Melchisedec who in the days of his flesh, when he had offered up prayers and supplications with strong crying and tears unto Him that was able to save Him from death, and was heard in that He feared; though He were a Son, yet learned He obedience by the things which He suffered;
And being made perfect, He became the author of eternal salvation unto all them that obey Him; called of God an high priest after the order of Melchisedec.
Of whom we have many things to say, and hard to be uttered, seeing ye are dull of hearing.
For when for the time ye ought to be teachers, ye have need that one teach you again which be the first principles of the oracles of God; and are become such as have need of milk, and not of strong meat. For every one that useth milk is unskillful in the Word of righteousness: for he is a babe.
But strong meat belongs to them that are of full age, even those who by reason of use have their senses exercised to discern both good and evil."
Teach Us How to Pray - Part 827
Before we pray, perhaps, we should understand what the scriptures say about prayer. Why? Because lately, prayer has been taking on a life of its own. This would be a good thing if these prayers at least aligned with the Word. Or, we at least understood what the scriptures state. But sadly, many today do not even know in whom they pray. Instead, we have prayers to Father God, or other prayer warriors giving equal time to the Father, Son and Holy Spirit. What is wrong with all of these is that these very same prayer warriors have forgotten Thy name.
The same name to which every knee will bow. The same name that is the only name under heaven whereby we can be saved. The same name that we are to do everything in word or deed, including water baptism. (Acts 2:38-42)
What does John write to the churches in the book of Revelation? "And hast borne, and hast patience, and for My name's sake hast laboured, and hast not fainted." (Revelation 2:3-5) " I know thy works; behold, I have set before thee an open door, and no man can shut it, for thou hast a little strength, and hast kept My Word, and hast not denied My name." (Revelation 3:8)
What is His name? Yes, Jesus! In the beginning was the Word and the Word was with God and the Word was God ... and the Word [that is God -- the same God who created us] became flesh. The same God Almighty -- the same God with us -- delivered unto us a "name" whereby each and every one of us could be saved.
But we have put the precious name of Jesus on the back burner. Instead, we talk about God in everything we do -- as if we can know the Father without knowing His name. Did Jesus not say, "No man comes to the Father but by Me." (John 14:6) How many times did the scribes and Pharisees want to kill Jesus because He called Himself God? And the apostles? Philip and Thomas both needed to know who Jesus was, albeit they asked in different ways. But the response was the same.
Jesus said, "I and My Father are one." Jesus said, "Have I been so long time with you Philip and yet you ask, "Show us the Father?" This is why today's blog features scriptures about prayer -- because we need to understand why prayer is a critical component of salvation and walking by faith.
From the old testament, we read, "Seek ye the LORD while He may be found, call ye upon Him while He is near." (Isaiah 55:6) And, "If My people, which 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 will forgive their sin, and will heal their land." (II Chronicles 7:14)
But then the Messiah came to save His people from their sin and He taught us how to pray.
Jesus said, "And when thou prayest, thou shalt not be as the hypocrites are; for they love to pray standing in the synagogues and in the corners of the streets, that they may be seen of men. Verily I say unto you -- they have their reward. But thou, when thou prayest, enter into thy closet and when thou hast shut thy door, pray to the Father which is in secret; and thy Father which seeth in secret shall reward thee openly.
But when you pray, use not vain repetitions as the heathen do; for they think that they shall be heard for their much speaking. Be ye not ye therefore like unto them -- for your Father knoweth what things ye have need of, before you ask Him."
After this manner therefore pray ye ...
"Our Father which art in heaven, Hallowed be Thy Name. Thy kingdom come, Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread. And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil: For Thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, for ever. Amen." (Matthew 6:9-13)
Other verses? "Be careful for nothing; but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God." (Philippians 4:6) "Pray without ceasing!" (I Thessalonians 5:17) Therefore I say unto you, "What things soever ye desire, when ye pray, believe that ye receive [them], and ye shall have [them]." (Mark 11:24)
"I will therefore that men pray everywhere, lifting up holy hands, without wrath and doubting." (I Timothy 2:8) "In everything give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you." (I Thessalonians 5:18) "Humble yourselves in the sight of the Lord, and He shall lift you up." (James 4:10)
"Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, and watching thereunto with all perseverance and supplication for all saints; and for me, that utterance may be given unto me, that I may open my mouth boldly, to make known the mystery of the gospel, For which I am an ambassador in bonds: that therein I may speak boldly, as I ought to speak." (Ephesians 6:18)
"Let us draw near with a true heart in full assurance of faith, having our hearts sprinkled from an evil conscience and our bodies washed with pure water. Let us hold fast the profession of faith without wavering; for He is faithful that promised. (Hebrews 10:22-23)
"And this is the confidence that we have in Him, that, if we ask anything according to His will, He heareth us." (I John 5:14-15) "And this is the confidence that we have in Him, that, if we ask anything according to His will, He heareth us." (I John 5:14) "The effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much." (James 5:16)
"If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all [men] liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him." (James 1:5-7)
"Likewise the Spirit also helpeth our infirmities: for we know not what we should pray for as we ought: but the Spirit itself maketh intercession for us with groanings which cannot be uttered." (Romans 8:26)
"If ye abide in me, and my words abide in you, ye shall ask what ye will, and it shall be done unto you." (John 15:7) "And all things, whatsoever ye shall ask in prayer, believing, ye shall receive." (Matthew 21:22) "Continue in prayer, and watch in the same with thanksgiving." (Colossians 4:2)
"If ye abide in me, and my words abide in you, ye shall ask what ye will, and it shall be done unto you." (John 15:7) "And all things, whatsoever ye shall ask in prayer, believing, ye shall receive." (Matthew 21:22) "Continue in prayer, and watch in the same with thanksgiving." (Colossians 4:2)
Jesus said, "Again I say unto you -- That if two of you shall agree on earth as touching anything that they shall ask, it shall be done for them of my Father which is in heaven." (Matthew 18:20)
"Let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of need." (Hebrews 4:16) "Draw nigh to God, and He will draw nigh to you. Cleanse [your] hands, [ye] sinners; and purify [your] hearts, [ye] double minded." (James 4:8) "These all continued with one accord in prayer and supplication, with the women, and Mary the mother of Jesus, and with His brethren." (Acts 1:14)
"Likewise the Spirit also helpeth our infirmities: for we know not what we should pray for as we ought: but the Spirit itself maketh intercession for us with groanings which cannot be uttered." (Romans 8:26-27) "But Peter put them all forth, and kneeled down, and prayed; and turning [him] to the body said, "Tabitha, arise." And she opened her eyes: and when she saw Peter, she sat up." (Acts 9:36:42)
"Likewise the Spirit also helpeth our infirmities: for we know not what we should pray for as we ought: but the Spirit itself maketh intercession for us with groanings which cannot be uttered." (Romans 8:26-27) "But Peter put them all forth, and kneeled down, and prayed; and turning [him] to the body said, "Tabitha, arise." And she opened her eyes: and when she saw Peter, she sat up." (Acts 9:36:42)
"But without faith [it is] impossible to please [Him]: for he that cometh to God must believe that He is, and [that] He is a rewarder of them that diligently seek Him." (Hebrews 11:6) "Now unto him that is able to do exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that worketh in us ..." (Ephesians 3:20)
There are more scriptures, indeed, many more. But for now, meditate on these things which are good. Stand in the offering plate.
Delight in the Lord and He Will Give You the Desires of Your Heart - Part 826
”Thou wilt show me the path of life — in Thy presence is fullness of joy. At Thy right hand, there are pleasures for evermore.” (Psalms 16:11)
Let me say this. I do not want to be part of a ‘worldly’ club. Indeed, through numerous experiences in my own life, I have discovered that the things of this world are not enough to satisfy me. There is no promise from the world that when I am weary, that there is a viable option for renewing my strength. Nor does the world promise that when I am spent (from running to and fro at its every command) that we can mount up with eagles and fly — and not be weary. Neither does the worldly club guarantee that by faith in the things of this earth, we can walk boldly and never faint.
Moreover, the worldly culture teaches us to fear on every level. What will happen if I lose my job? Or get sick? Or something terrible happens to my family? Or …. ??? You fill in the blanks. Whatever the potential worry or burden might be, the world does not steer me in a direction that suggests there is a way to overcome. The world does not allow me to trust its motives with innocent faith, because there are so many who went before me and failed miserably.
Indeed, regardless of what worldly club I join, the earthly mission statements are most often closed to a higher calling that sets us apart to live victoriously in liberty. Instead, these are generally rooted in a worldly mindset and culture that does not gravitate to peace and joy and liberty within their respective memberships.
Even though some organizations offer extensive support systems that are known to propel one’s well-being in society (and in some cases, even professional careers) by virtue of memberships and exclusive participation, none of these can fill our being like the treasure of knowing the Lord’s distinguished plan for our life, and His abundance of love that fills our soul with joy.
And yet, even though these worldly organizations — individually or collectively — do not hold the power to sustain the universe — to place the stars one by one in the sky — or to keep our earth turning on its course, as it should — we are somehow led to these social places of belonging. Oh foolish Galatians — as Paul would say — “When will you learn?”
When will we learn to ”delight [our]self in the LORD; and He shall give [you] the desires of thine heart?” (Psalms 37:4) When will we learn that we “can do all things through Christ which strengthens [us]?” (Philippians 4:13)
Sadly, even in the days of the apostles, it didn’t take long for an inextricably intertwined ‘world-like religious culture’ to take root in the places where the gospel was preached. We read this in Paul’s letter to the Galatians. Paul, an apostle (not by man which means man did not bestow that title upon him) but rather by Jesus Christ and God the Father who had raised Him from the dead writes the following:
“O foolish Galatians, who hath bewitched you, that ye should not obey the truth, before whose eyes Jesus Christ hath been evidently set forth, crucified among you? This only would I learn of you — Received ye the Spirit by the works of the law? Or, by the hearing of faith? Are ye so foolish? Having begun in the Spirit, are ye now made perfect by the flesh? Have ye suffered so many things in vain? if it be yet in vain. He therefore that ministereth to you the Spirit, and worketh miracles among you, doeth he it by the works of the law, or by the hearing of faith?” (Galatians 3:1-5)
In other words, Christ has redeemed us from the curse of the law, being made a curse for us. He has redeemed us from the bondage when the veil was ripped from top to bottom. 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.” (Galatians 3:13-14) “
You see, because our Lord Jesus Christ shed His precious blood on the cross, we can be blessed with all spiritual blessings in heavenly places. According as He hath chosen us in Him before the foundation of the world … that we should be holy and without blame before Him in love. Having predestinated us unto the adoption of children by Jesus Christ to Himself — according to the good pleasure of His will.” (Ephesians 1:1-5)
Therefore, “to the praise of the glory of His grace, wherein He hath made us accepted in the beloved — in whom we have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of sins, according to the riches of His grace, wherein He hath abounded toward us in all wisdom and prudence — having made known unto us the mystery of His will, according to His good pleasure, which He hath purposed in Himself.” (Ephesians 1:1-9)
“Therefore, stand fast in the liberty wherewith Christ hath made us free, and be not entangled again with the yoke of bondage. (Galatians 5:1) Stand fast “in whom we have obtained an inheritance, being predestinated according to the purpose of Him who worketh all things after the counsel of His own will — that we should be to the praise of His glory, who first trusted in Christ.” (Ephesians 1:9-14)
And if you must take on a mindset, be it not the one of this world. Instead, let Christ dwell in your hearts by faith; “that ye, being rooted and grounded in love may be able to comprehend with all saints what is the breadth and length and depth and height and to know the love of Christ which passes knowledge, that ye might be filled with all the fulness of God.
Now unto Him that is able to do exceedingly abundantly all that we ask or think, according to the power that worketh in us, unto Him be the glory in the church by Jesus Christ throughout all ages, world without end. Amen.” (Ephesians 3:17-21)
Saturday, February 15, 2014
But According to the Word - Part 825
"Little children, let no man deceive you. He that doeth righteousness is righteous, even as He is righteous." (I John 3:7)
There are some who want you to believe that you have to work for salvation. That if you perform good works, or live your life according to "right living" principles, either of these would be sufficient for you to make it into heaven. Some even suggest that we can be saved by confessing or sins to a priest, or giving tithes according to a tithing regiment to the church.
But according to the Word, salvation is a gift of God. Therefore, there is nothing we can do to earn our place in heaven. There is no number system or a bonus for every time we do something nice. In fact, none of the above will work.
The only response that is sufficient is to accept God's gift without question by faith, asking Him -- Jesus, the King of kings and Lord of lords -- into our heart, seeking His righteousness in our life.
Indeed, In Ephesians, we read:
"For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves, it is the gift of God." (Ephesians 2:8-9)
"Who hath saved us, and called us with an holy calling, not according to our works, but according to His own purpose and grace, which was given us in Christ Jesus before the world began ..." (II Timothy 1:9)
I John chapter three shares the good news gospel message this way:
"Behold, what manner of love the Father hath bestowed upon us, that we should be called the sons of God. Therefore, the world knows us not, because it knew Him not.
Beloved, now are we the sons of God, and it doth not yet appear what we shall be: but we know that, when He shall appear, we shall be like Him; for we shall see Him as he is. And every man that hath this hope in Him purifieth himself, even as He is pure.
(Whosoever committeth sin transgresses also the law: for sin is the transgression of the law).
And ye know that He was manifested to take away our sins; and in Him is no sin. Whosoever abideth in Him sinneth not: whosoever sinneth hath not seen Him, neither known Him. "Little children, let no man deceive you. He that doeth righteousness is righteous, even as He is righteous."
He that committeth sin is of the devil; for the devil sinneth from the beginning.
For this purpose the Son of God was manifested, that He might destroy the works of the devil. Whosoever is born of God doth not commit sin; for His seed remaineth in him: and he cannot sin, because he is born of God. In this the children of God are manifest!
And the children of the devil? Whosoever does not righteousness is not of God, neither he that loveth not his brother. For this is the message that ye heard from the beginning, that we should love one another." (I John 3:1-24)
Take hold of Jesus' promises for your life today. Stand in the offering plate.
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