Repentance and Remission of Sins Preached In His Name - Part 896

Many of us have heard about Easter, and how therein, Jesus had risen from the dead. I wonder, however, how many of us have taken the time to actually read the scriptures detailing His resurrection, and discover the gospel truth that is not always inherent in the current religious culture and Easter traditions? Having had a conversation earlier this week about Jesus resurrection taking place after three days and three nights -- not the traditional Friday to Sunday that is celebrated, and Jesus rising on the "first day" of the week -- not Monday, I thought it was time for a scriptural refresher. (Matthew 12:40; Mark 16:9; Luke 24:1)

Reading from the 23rd chapter of Luke, Jesus had been condemned to be crucified. On the cross, His humanity cried with a loud voice, saying, "Father, into Thy hands I commend My spirit," and having said thus, He gave up the ghost.

Now when the centurion saw what was done, he glorified God, saying, "Certainly this was a righteous man." And all the people that came together to that sight, beholding the things which were done, smote their breasts, and returned. And all His acquaintance, and the women that followed him from Galilee, stood afar off, beholding these things. (Luke 23:47-49)

The scene is described from a different stance in Matthew's writing. He writes: "Jesus -- when He had cried again with a loud voice, yielded up the ghost. And behold, the veil of the temple was rent in twain from the top to the bottom; and the earth did quake, and the rocks rent; and the graves were opened and many bodies of the saints which slept arose ... and came out of the graves after His resurrection, and went into the holy city, and appeared unto many. Now when the centurion, and they that were with him, watching Jesus, saw the earthquake, and those things that were done, they feared greatly, saying, "Truly, this was the Son of God." (Matthew 27:50-54)

At the same time, many women were there beholding afar off which followed Jesus from Galilee, ministering/worshipping Him; among which was Mary Magdalene, and Mary the mother of James and Joses, and the mother of Zebedee's children. When the even was come, there came a rich man of Arimathaea, named Joseph, who also himself was Jesus' disciple. He went to Pilate and begged the body of Jesus. Then Pilate commanded the body to be delivered. (Matthew 27:55-58)

This Joseph did the same in Luke's writing. "And, behold, there was a man named Joseph, a counsellor; and he was a good man, and just (the same had not consented to the counsel and deed of them). He was of Arimathaea, a city of the Jews: who also himself waited for the kingdom of God. This man went unto Pilate, and begged the body of Jesus." (Luke 23:50-52)

"And he took it down, and wrapped it in linen, and laid it in a sepulchre that was hewn in stone, wherein never man before was laid. And that day was the preparation, and the sabbath drew on. And the women also, which came with him from Galilee, followed after, and beheld the sepulchre, and how His body was laid. And they returned, and prepared spices and ointments; and rested the sabbath day according to the commandment."

Note that Luke does not refer to the body of Jesus here as a body as one would suspect, but rather as an "it." And he took it down, and wrapped it in linen, and laid it in a sepulchre. (Luke 23:53) This description might be considered weird for a disciple to use except that Luke uses a similar unexpected description when writing about Jesus' birth in Luke 1:35. Here, he writes:

"And the angel answered and said unto her [Mary]: "The Holy Ghost shall come upon thee and the power of the Highest shall overshadow thee; therefore, also that holy thing which shall be born of thee shall be called the Son of God." (Luke 1:35)

"... that holy thing which shall be born of thee shall be called the Son of God." (Luke 1:35) In Matthew 1:20-25, Jesus is referred to as "that which is conceived in [Mary] is of the Holy Ghost."

But Matthew also writes: "And she shall bring forth a son, and thou shalt call His name Jesus, for He shall save His people from their sins ... BEHOLD, A VIRGIN SHALL BE WITH CHILD, AND SHALL BRING FORTH A SON, AND THEY SHALL CALL HIS NAME EMMANUEL, which being interpreted is, God with us." (Matthew 1:20-25; Luke 1:30-35; Luke 2:21; John 1:29)

Is the language used for Jesus' body here strictly a revelation that Luke had, that differed from the other disciples? It is definitely food for thought but for a discussion in this blog at a later time.

But getting back to Jesus' resurrection, Luke writes that it was early morning on the first day of the week.

"Very early in the morning they came unto the sepulchre, bringing the spices which they had prepared, and certain others with them. And they found the stone rolled away from the sepulchre. And they entered in, and found not the body of the Lord Jesus. And it came to pass, as they were much perplexed thereabout, behold, two men stood by them in shining garments." (Luke 24:1-4; Mark 15:46-47; Mark 16:1-6)

And as they were afraid, and bowed down their faces to the earth, they said unto them, "Why seek ye the living among the dead? He is not here, but is risen: remember how He spake unto you when He was yet in Galilee, saying, "The Son of man must be delivered into the hands of sinful men, and be crucified, and the third day rise again." And they remembered His words, and returned from the sepulchre, and told all these things unto the eleven, and to all the rest." (Luke 24:5-9)

In fact, the "young man sitting on the right side, clothed in a long white garment" saith unto them, "Be not affrighted. You seek Jesus of Nazareth which was crucified. He is risen. He is not here. Behold the place where they laid Him. But go your way, tell His disciples and Peter that He goes before you into Galilee. There shall ye see Him -- as He said unto you." (Mark 16:5-8)

As an aside, when were the disciples told that Jesus would go before them into Galilee? In Matthew 26, Jesus said unto them, "All ye shall be offended because of Me this night, for it is written, I WILL SMITE THE SHEPHERD, AND THE SHEEP OF THE FLOCK SHALL BE SCATTERED ABROAD, But after I am risen again, I will go before you into Galilee." (Matthew 26:31-32, 56; Mark 14:27; Zechariah 13:7-9) But I digress.

As a consequence, they went out quickly and fled from the sepulchre, for they trembled and were amazed. Neither said they anything to any man for they were afraid. (Mark 16:8)

"It was Mary Magdalene, and Joanna, and Mary the mother of James, and other women that were with them, which told these things unto the apostles. And their words seemed to them as idle tales, and they believed them not. Then arose Peter, and ran unto the sepulchre; and stooping down, he beheld the linen clothes laid by themselves, and departed, wondering in himself at that which was come to pass." (Luke 24:10-12)

"And, behold, two of them went that same day to a village called Emmaus, which was from Jerusalem about threescore furlongs. And they talked together of all these things which had happened." Why? Because, like many today, it would be difficult to believe that Jesus had risen from the dead.

But as the gospel declares, "it came to pass, that, while they communed together and reasoned, Jesus Himself drew near, and went with them.But their eyes were holden that they should not know Him." (Luke 24:13-16)

And then Jesus said unto them, "What manner of communications are these that ye have one to another, as ye walk, and are sad?" And the one of them, whose name was Cleopas, answering said unto Him, "Art thou only a stranger in Jerusalem, and hast not known the things which are come to pass there in these days?" Obviously, Cleopas did not know with whom he spoke. And Jesus said unto them, "What things?"

And they said unto Him, "Concerning Jesus of Nazareth, which was a prophet mighty in deed and word before God and all the people and how the chief priests and our rulers delivered Him to be condemned to death, and have crucified Him. But we trusted that it had been He which should have redeemed Israel: and beside all this, to day is the third day since these things were done." (Luke 24:17-21)

You see, the disciples believed that Jesus should have redeemed Israel as the KING OF THE JEWS and therefore, should never have been crucified. But as John indicated, "for these as yet knew not the scripture that He must rise again from the dead." (John 20:9) 

The disciples did not readily realize that the Son of man would rise again on the third day -- after spending three days and three nights in the heart of the earth. "For as Jonas was three days and three nights in the whale's belly; so shall the Son of man be three days and three nights in the heart of the earth." (Matthew 12:40)

But interestingly, Mary Magdalene who was the first to see the risen Jesus, stood at the sepulchre weeping after the disciples had gone home. And as she wept, she stooped down and saw the two angels who asked, "Woman, why weepest thou?" She said unto them, "Because they have taken away my Lord and I know not where they have laid Him" (John 20:10-14)

When she turned back, she saw a man standing, supposing Him to be the gardener. Jesus said unto her, "Woman, why weepest thou? Whom seekest thou?" Mary said, "Sir, if thou have borne Him hence, tell me where thou hast laid Him and I will take Him away." Jesus knew Mary Magdalene's heart and upon saying her name, she turned herself and said unto Him, "Rabboni; which is to say, Master." (John 20:15-17)

But Jesus said unto Mary -- "Touch Me not, for I am not yet ascended to My Father" but go to my brethren and say unto them, "I ascend unto My Father and your Father, and to My God and your God." (John 20:17) Mary Magdalene went and told the disciples that she had seen the Lord and the things that He had spoken to her.

Let's pick it up again in Luke whereby Cleopas and the others continue to describe to Jesus what had happened. So when certain women went to the sepulchre early in the morning and found not His body, "they came, saying, that they had also seen a vision of angels, which said that He was alive." And certain of them which were with us went to the sepulchre, and found it even so as the women had said, but Him they saw not.(Luke 24:24)

Then Jesus said unto them, "O fools, and slow of heart to believe all that the prophets have spoken. Ought not Christ to have suffered these things, and to enter into His glory?" And beginning at Moses and all the prophets, He expounded unto them in all the scriptures the things concerning Himself. (Luke 24:25-27)

And they drew nigh unto the village, whither they went: and He made as though He would have gone further but they constrained Him, saying, "Abide with us: for it is toward evening, and the day is far spent." And He went in to tarry with them.

There is more to come on this subject but for now suffice it to say this. Jesus said unto them, "These are the words which I spake unto you, while I was yet with you, that all things must be fulfilled, which were written in the law of Moses, and in the prophets, and in the psalms, concerning Me." (Luke 24:44)

Then opened He their understanding that they might understand the scriptures -- and said unto them, "Thus it is written, and thus it behoved Christ to suffer, and to rise from the dead the third day ... and that repentance and remission of sins should be preached in His name among all nations, beginning at Jerusalem. And ye are witnesses of these things ...

And, behold, I send the promise of My Father upon you: but tarry ye in the city of Jerusalem, until ye be endued with power from on high. And He led them out as far as to Bethany, and He lifted up His hands, and blessed them. And it came to pass, while He blessed them, He was parted from them, and carried up into heaven." (Luke 24:45-53)

This is why we worship Jesus with all our hearts, souls, minds and strength today. It also explains why repentance and remission of sins is preached in His precious name among all nations. Therefore, take hold of His mercy and grace -- that is for you and your children and those who are afar off.  In other words, come and dine at the Master's table for Jesus never fails. Stand in the offering plate.

We Are Not Children of the Bondwoman - Part 895

"Stand fast therefore in the liberty wherewith Christ has made us free .... and be not entangled again with the yoke of bondage." (Galatians 5:1)

"Now I say," writes Paul the apostle to the Galatians, " that the heir -- as long as he is a child differs nothing from a servant -- [even] though he be lord of all."

Why? Because the child remains under tutors and governors until the time appointed of the father. The same principle applies to you and I as believers in our faith journey. That is, while we were still children, we were in bondage under the elements of the world. (Galatians 4:1-3) 

But when the fulness of time was come, God sent forth His Son made of a woman, made under the law to redeem them that were under the law that we might receive the adoption of sons ... and because you are sons, God has sent forth the Spirit of His Son into your hearts, crying, "Abba, Father." Wherefore thou art no more a servant, but a son; and if a son, then an heir of God through Christ." (Galatians 4:4-7)

That is, "if we believe on Him that raised up Jesus our Lord from the dead, who  was delivered for our offences and was raised again for our justification" ...  we are justified by faith. "We have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ -- by whom also we have access by faith into this grace wherein we stand." 

This is why we can continually "rejoice in the hope of the glory of God." (Romans 4:25; 5:1-2)

Indeed, the same God who John bare witness of when he wrote: "He was in the world and the world was made by Him but the world knew Him not. But as many as received Him, to them gave He power to become the sons of God even to them that believe on His name which were born, not of blood, nor of the will of the flesh, nor of the will of man, but of God. And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us (and we beheld His glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father) full of grace and truth. " (John 1:10-15)

This is why the Lord God could say to the serpent in Genesis 3:15: " I will put enmity between thee and the woman, and between thy seed and her seed; it shall bruise thy head, and thou shalt bruise his heel." Because the same Lord God who created the world had already decided the plan of salvation -- even before the world was shaped. Such is the mystery of godliness.

And as such, He came not to be ministered unto, but to minister and to give His life a ransom for many. (Matthew 20:28) And His name? Jesus -- the only name under heaven whereby we can be saved.

This same point is further clarified in Colossians 2:6-10 which states: "As ye have therefore received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk ye in Him, rooted and built up in Him and stablished in the faith, as ye have been taught, abounding therein with thanksgiving." (Colossians 2:6-10)

Abba, Father. The hope that makes us not ashamed because the love of our Lord God and Saviour is shed abroad in our hearts by the Holy Ghost which is given unto us -- for when we were yet without strength, in due time, Christ died for the ungodly. God commendeth His love towards us in that while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us. 

Not only as children, or sons and daughters, or servants but so that we could become His friends. Therein, our joy and peace and hope and salvation. (Romans 5:1-5) We can joy in God through our Lord Jesus Christ by whom we have now received the atonement. (Romans 5:11) 

John wrote: "But as many as received Him, to them gave He power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on His name." (John 1:12) 

Jesus said, "This is my commandment, That ye love one another, as I have loved you. Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends. Ye are my friends, if ye do whatsoever I command you. Ye have not chosen Me, but I have chosen you, and ordained you, that ye should go and bring forth fruit, and that your fruit should remain: that whatsoever ye shall ask of the Father in My name, He may give it you. Henceforth, I call you not servants; for the servant knoweth not what his lord doeth: but I have called you friends; for all things that I have heard of my Father I have made known unto you. These things I command you, that ye love one another."

Sadly, the "religious culture" and "worldly spirit" of this day does not want you to take hold of the promises that are intended for those who press into Jesus. Therefore take warning. Beware -- lest any man spoil you through philosophy and vain deceit, after the tradition of men, after the rudiments of the world, and not after the Christ -- "for in Him dwelleth all of the fulness of the Godhead bodily, and ye are complete in Him which is the head of all principality and power." (Colossians 2:9-10)

Trust Jesus today. Stand firm in His love and grace. Stand in the offering plate.

Because He Has Not Believed in the Name - Part 894

"I know thy works, and thy labour, and thy patience, and how thou canst not bear them which are evil: and thou hast tried them which say they are apostles, and are not, and hast found them liars." (Revelation 2:2)

The last book of the Bible -- Revelation -- is essentially the revelation of our Lord God and Saviour Jesus Christ, "which God gave unto him to show unto His servants things which must shortly come to pass." (Revelation 1:1) Herein, John bares record of the Word of God and of the testimony of Jesus Christ and of all things that he saw. 

He writes, "Blessed is he that reads, and they that hear the words of this prophecy and keep those things which are written therein; for the time is at hand." (Revelation 1:3)

The words John scribes are intended for the seven churches "from Him which is, and which was, and which is to come" -- "Jesus Christ who is the faithful witness and the first begotten of the dead and the prince of the kings of the earth." (Revelation 1:4) 

"Unto Him that loved us and washed us from our sins in His own blood and hath made us kings and priests unto God and His Father; to Him be glory and dominion for ever and ever Amen. Behold, He comes with clouds and every eye shall see Him and they also which pierced Him and all kindreds of the earth shall wail because of Him. Even so, Amen." (Revelation 1:5-7)

So, who is the "Him"  referred to here? Certainly, Him does not refer to a trinity or triune God, or God in three persons as the religious culture of this day would have us believe. Rather, Him refers to the same ONE God and Saviour in the old covenant who is the very same one God and Saviour who shed His precious blood for our sin in the new testament. One Lord, one faith, one baptism. The Word that in the beginning was with God and was God and then later became flesh and dwelt among us. (John 1:1-18) His name is Jesus -- the only name whereby we must be saved in this dispensation of grace. 

"I am Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the ending," saith the Lord, "which is, and which was and which is to come, the Almighty." (Revelation 1:8; Revelation 1:11; Revelation 21:6; John 1:1-18) That is, Jesus -- the root and offspring of David and the bright and morning star. (Revelation 22:16)

As believers, we need to understand the prophetic message given in the book of Revelation to the churches but at the same time, we need to know in whom it is we worship. 

"Fear not; I am the first and the last. I am He that liveth and was dead and, behold, I am alive forevermore -- amen and have the keys of hell and of death." This is why John wrote the things which he hast seen, and the things which are, and the things which shall be hereafter. 

So that "he that overcomes, and keeps My works unto the end, to him will I give power over the nations -- AND HE SHALL RULE THEM WITH A ROD OF IRON; AS THE VESSELS OF A POTTER SHALL THEY BE BROKEN TO SHIVERS -- even as I received of My Father -- and I will give him the morning star. He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches." (Revelation 2:26-29)

And us? We need to respond to His love in spirit and in truth -- worshipping Him that loved us and washed us with His own blood and hath made us kings and priests -- that is, our Lord God and Saviour Jesus Christ. Stand in the offering plate. 

No Man Can Come to the Father But By Me, Said Jesus - Part 893

In John chapter six, Jesus had just performed the miracle of feeding the multitude. But the crowds returned again fully expecting to be fed a second time. Knowing the intents of the heart, Jesus said, "Verily, verily, I say unto you, Ye seek Me -- not because you saw the miracles -- but because you did eat of the loaves, and were filled."(John 6:26)

In other words, the crowds herein did not come to Jesus because they loved Him or for the miracles He performed but rather, for what He could do for them personally. Some might describe this as the difference between a "hired man" and one whose actions are dictated solely by His love and grace. As we can see from this example, there was an abundance of hired men, hoping to enjoy the blessings that our Lord God and Saviour could bestow upon them -- however, stopping short of making a personal commitment.

Unfortunately, there are many in this day and age who do the same thing. We go to church, pay our tithes, and thereafter, focus on what some refer to as "right living." As such, the gospel is sprinkled upon our lives through our church activity, but sadly, during the remainder of the week, we go about trying to achieve outcomes that align with worldly motivations.

Interestingly, Jesus told the crowd -- a message that is equally pertinent today -- "Labour not for the meat which perishes, but for that meat which endures unto everlasting life, which the Son of man shall give unto you: for Him hath God the Father sealed." (John 6:27)

To which the crowd then asked Jesus, "What shall we do, that we might work the works of God?" Jesus answered and said unto them, "This is the work of God, that ye believe on Him whom He hath sent."

But obviously these did not believe in Jesus because they looked for yet an additional sign that would confirm who Jesus really was. Indeed, these said unto Him, "What sign showest Thou then, that we may see, and believe Thee? What dost Thou work? Our fathers did eat manna in the desert." As it is written, "He gave them bread from heaven to eat." (John 6:31; Exodus 16:4-15; Psalm 78:24)

You see, these already knew of the bread and water that sustained their fathers in the desert, and desired that sustenance too. Aware that God "gave them bread from heaven for their hunger, and brought forth water for them out of the rock for their thirst, and promised them that they should go in to possess the land which Thou hadst sworn to give them." (Nehemiah 9:15)

Presumably then, these were also aware that "their fathers dealt proudly, and hardened their necks, and hearkened not to Thy commandments. And refused to obey ... neither were they mindful of Thy wonders among them but hardened their necks, and in their rebellion appointed a captain to return to their bondage." (Nehemiah 9:15-17)

But still, as in days past, there was our Lord God willing and ready to pardon them, "gracious and merciful, slow to anger, and of great kindness, [who would have] forsookest them not" had they only believed in His love in their hearts. (Nehemiah 9:17)

Jesus confirmed the same to them, saying, "Verily, verily, I say unto you, Moses gave you not that bread from heaven; but My Father giveth you the true bread from heaven. For the bread of God is He which cometh down from heaven, and gives life unto the world." (John 6:26-33)

Unconvinced, their hearts still desired the worldly benefits, having said unto Jesus, "Lord, evermore give us this bread." (John 6:34) Like the hired man might suggest today, "Just give us enough of the blessing Lord so that our names are written in the Book of Life."

However, Jesus once again tried to reach them saying, "I am the bread of life. He that comes to Me shall never hunger; and he that believes on Me shall never thirst ... All that the Father gives Me shall come to Me; and him that comes to Me I will in no wise cast out. For I came down from heaven, not to do Mine own will, but the will of Him that sent Me ..." (John 6:35-38)

Note that Jesus did not stop there. He continues His message of love, saying:

"And this is the Father's will which hath sent Me -- that of all which He hath given Me, I should lose nothing -- but should raise it up again at the last day. And this is the will of Him that sent Me, that every one which sees the Son and believes on Him, may have everlasting life: and I will raise him up at the last day." (John 6:39-40)

Sadly, the Jews murmured at Jesus, because He had said, "I am the bread which came down from heaven." Questioning His teachings, they murmured, "Is not this Jesus, the son of Joseph, whose father and mother we know?" How is it then that He saith, "I came down from heaven?" (John 6:41-42)

Again, Jesus knowing their innermost thoughts and desires of the heart answered them, stating: "Murmur not among yourselves. No man can come to Me, except the Father which hath sent Me draw him: and I will raise him up at the last day." It is written in the prophets, "And they shall be all taught of God." Every man therefore that hath heard, and hath learned of the Father, cometh unto Me." (John 6:43-45)

Sadly, even though they had seen the heavenly Father in the flesh standing before them in the synagogue, patiently and mercifully showing them that He was and is the only way to eternal life, they believed not. Jesus said, "That ye also have seen Me and [yet still] believe not." (John 6:36)

"Not that any man hath seen the Father, save He which is of God, He has seen the Father. Verily, verily, I say unto you, "He that believeth on Me hath everlasting life. I am that bread of life." Your fathers did eat manna in the wilderness, and are dead. This is the bread which cometh down from heaven, that a man may eat thereof, and not die ... I am the living bread which came down from heaven: if any man eat of this bread, he shall live for ever: and the bread that I will give is my flesh, which I will give for the life of the world." (John 6:46-51)

The Jews therefore strove among themselves -- causing somewhat of a division in the midst. They asked, "How can this man give us His flesh to eat?" These did not understand Jesus' teachings because they focussed only on the literal -- as does a hired man. That is, don't confuse the hired man with details but rather just provide him or her with the minimum requirements to get them into heaven. Similar to a safety net analogy.

This is why Jesus continued. He said, "Verily, verily, I say unto you -- except you eat the flesh of the Son of man, and drink His blood, ye have no life in you. Whoso eats My flesh and drinks My blood has eternal life, and I will raise him up at the last day.  For my flesh is meat indeed, and my blood is drink indeed. He that eats My flesh and drinks My blood dwells in Me and I in him. As the living Father hath sent Me, and I live by the Father: so he that eateth Me, even he shall live by Me." (John 6:53-57)

Note that repeatedly (just as our Lord God was in the days of old) He was gracious and merciful, slow to anger, and of great kindness, [who would have] forsookest them not" had these only turned in their hearts and believed in the bread from heaven.

Jesus again stated, "This is that bread which came down from heaven: not as your fathers did eat manna, and are dead: he that eateth of this bread shall live for ever." (John 6:58)

Therefore, herein the gift of salvation -- that the same Lord God who created the world in the beginning loved us so much that He Himself would shed His precious blood on a cross so that we might experience His mercy and grace. His love that surpasses all human understanding. His teaching here -- don't make the same mistake as these did, turning away from His free gift of salvation.

Many of His disciples, when they had heard this teaching admitted, "This is an hard saying; who can hear it?" When Jesus knew in Himself that His disciples murmured at it, He said unto them, "Doth this offend you? What and if ye shall see the Son of man ascend up where He was before? It is the Spirit that quickens; the flesh profits nothing: the words that I speak unto you, they are spirit, and they are life." (John 6:60-63)

In spite of Jesus' kindness and mercy, some still believed not. In fact, according to the scriptures, from that time, many of His disciples went back and walked no more with Him. (John 6:66)

Then said Jesus unto the twelve, "Will ye also go away?" Then Simon Peter answered Him, saying, "Lord, to whom shall we go? Thou hast the words of eternal life." (John 6:66-68)

No truer words could be spoken. Abide in Jesus today -- not as a hired man but one who truly seeks the Saviour and His righteousness with all their soul, mind, heart and strength. Be clean and renewed through the Word that He has spoken in your heart. (John 15:9) Be diligent in reading His Word each and every day for your spiritual bread and water so that you too shall never hunger or thirst.

Why? Because Jesus NEVER fails! Stand in the offering plate.

Behold the Lamb of God - Part 892

"Surely the Lord GOD will do nothing, but He reveals His secret unto His servants the prophets." (Amos 3:7)

Under the old covenant, God revealed His secret(s) unto His servants the prophets. This includes revealing His purposes and determinate counsel which would never have been known (or expected) if the Lord God had not revealed what He willed to do through the prophets.  In this former dispensation (known as the old testament), His servants (or more specifically, prophets) were considered holy men of God -- those who feared the Lord -- who even in the worst of occasions, would proclaim God's will to the people. As such, there was never a time when the people were not warned of the things which were to come.

For example, God revealed to Noah his need to build an ark so that when the world would be flooded because of sin, both he and his family would be saved. Similarly, God revealed to Abraham the destruction of cities Sodom and Gomorrah because of their transgressions against God. 

"And the Lord said, "Shall I hide from Abraham that thing which I do?" -- seeing that Abraham shall surely become a great and mighty nation, and all the nations of the earth shall be blessed in him." (Genesis 18:17-33) 

God also shared with Jeremiah the seventy years of captivity that the Jews would endure in Babylon and then to Isaiah their deliverance. In other words, everything that God would do (under the old covenant) was proclaimed through His servants/prophets so that the people in this dispensation could repent of their ways and turn to the Lord.

"And the Lord hearkened, and heard it, and a book of remembrance was written before Him for them that feared the Lord, and that thought upon His name -- and they shall be mine," saith the Lord of hosts, "in that day when I make up my jewels and I will spare them, as a man spareth his own son that serves him." (Malachi 3:16-17)

It is here that we come to the Lord's servant John the Baptist preaching to the people in the wilderness of Judaea, saying, "Repent ye; for the kingdom of heaven is at hand." (Matthew 3:1-2) 

"For this is He that was spoken of by the prophet Esaias (Isaiah), saying; "THE VOICE OF ONE CRYING IN THE WILDERNESS -- PREPARE YE THE WAY OF THE LORD. MAKE HIS PATHS STRAIGHT." (Matthew 3:3; Isaiah 40:3; Luke 1:76) 

As we continue reading, we see that John delivers an even stronger message to the Pharisees and Sadducees as they came to watch those being baptized in the Jordan, confessing their sins. John said, 

"O generation of vipers, who hath warned you to flee from the wrath to come? Bring forth therefore fruits meet for repentance; and think not to say within yourselves .... "We have Abraham our father" for I say unto you, "that God is able of these stones to raise up children unto Abraham." 

"And now also the axe is laid unto the root of the trees; therefore every tree which brings not forth good fruit is hewn down and cast into the fire. I indeed baptize you with water unto repentance, but He that comes after me is mightier than I -- whose shoes I am not worthy to bear. He shall baptize you with the Holy Ghost and with fire -- whose [winnowing] fan is in His hand, and He will thoroughly purge his floor and gather His wheat into the garner but He will burn up the chaff with unquenchable fire." (Matthew 3:4-12; Mark 1:18; Acts 1:4-5; Joel 2:28)

Herein, John is referring to the mystery that was decided before the world was shaped and who was about to be manifest for all the world to behold. That is, the Lamb of God.

"And to make ALL men see what is the fellowship of the mystery, which from the beginning of the world hath been hid in God, who created all things by Jesus Christ; to the intent that now unto the principalities and powers in heavenly places might be known by the church the manifold wisdom of God -- according to the eternal purpose which He purposed in Christ Jesus our Lord." (Ephesians 3:9-11)

In the old covenant, "God, who at sundry times and in divers manners spake in times past unto the fathers by prophets, and has in these last days spoken unto us by His Son, whom He hath appointed heir of all things, by whom also He made the worlds; 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" until "Thou hast put all things in subjection under His feet." (Hebrews 1:1-14; Hebrews 2:8)

This is why Jesus said, "For there is nothing hid, which shall not be manifested; neither was anything kept secret, but that it should come abroad." (Mark 4:22) "Even the mystery which has been hid from ages and from generations, but now is made manifest to His saints." (Colossians 1:26)

The mystery of godliness that was decided from the very beginning of the world -- and had been revealed to His loyal servants and prophets in the old covenant so that these could prophesy of that which was still to come, had finally come to fruition, bringing forth His glory to all nations. 

"Of which salvation the prophets have enquired, and searched diligently, who prophesied of the grace that should come unto you; searching what, or what manner of time the Spirit of Christ which was in them did signify, when it testified beforehand of the sufferings of Christ, and the glory that should follow ... unto whom it was revealed, that not unto themselves, but unto us did minister the things, which are now reported unto you by them that have preached the gospel unto you with the Holy Ghost sent down from heaven, which things the angels desire to look into." (I Peter 1:10-12)

In these last days, God reveals Himself to the world as a Son. 

"In the beginning was the Word and the Word was with God and the Word was God ... the same was in the beginning with God -- all things were made by Him and without Him was not anything made that was made -- and the Word was made flesh and dwelt among us (and we beheld His glory, the glory as the only begotten of the Father,) full of grace and truth." (John 1:1-14)

John confirmed Jesus to be the Saviour when he wrote: "For the law was given by Moses, but grace and truth came by Jesus Christ. No man hath seen God at any time; the only begotten Son which is in the bosom of the Father, He hath declared Him ... behold the Lamb of God which taketh away the sin of the world. " (John 1:15-36)

"In whom we have redemption through His blood, even the forgiveness of sins; who is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn of every creature --- for by Him were all things created that are in heaven, and that are in earth ... and He is before all things, and by Him all things consist." (Colossians 1:12-26)

"God with us." (Matthew 1:23) "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." (I Timothy 3:16)

Thus, the greatest love story ever told began -- a new testament -- whereby we could become heirs and joint heirs with Him when we believe in our Lord God and Saviour with all our heart, soul, mind and strength.

"For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, they are the sons of God, for ye have not received the spirit of bondage again to fear; but ye have received the Spirit of adoption whereby we cry "Abba, Father." The Spirit itself beareth witness with our spirit -- that we are the children of God, and if children, then heirs; heirs of God and joint-heirs with Christ, if so be that we suffer with Him, that we may be also glorified together." (Romans 8:1-39)

This is why when Jesus died, the veil was ripped from top to bottom. Our Lord God and Father willingly became our Saviour so that we as His friends and not servants could experience His love, His grace and His mercy. "The secret of the Lord is with them that fear Him, and He will show them His covenant." (Psalm 25:14)

"Henceforth, I call you not servants; for the servant knows not what his lord does, but I have called you friends -- for all things that I have heard of My Father, I have made known unto you." (John 15:15)

Therefore, in this current dispensation of grace, God reveals Himself (and the mysteries of the good news gospel) through His Word -- Jesus the Christ. 

Jesus said, "But the Comforter, which is the Holy Ghost, whom the Father will send in My name, He shall teach you all things, and bring all things to your remembrance, whatsoever I have said unto you." (John 14:26; Luke 24:48-49; I Corinthians 2:13)

Jesus is the only mediator between God and man. (I Timothy 2:5) Therefore, we no longer have to rely on another to teach us, because as believers who seek His righteousness, Jesus lives within. And when we are baptized in His name (Acts 2:38-42), we receive His power and authority. 

"For I delivered unto you first of all that which I also received -- how that Christ died for our sins according to the scriptures, and that He was buried and that He rose again the third day according to the scriptures, and that He was seen of Cephas, and of the twelve; after that, He was seen of above five hundred brethren at once; of whom the greater part remain unto this present, but some are fallen asleep. After that, He was seen of James; then of all the apostles, and last of all, He was seen of me also, as of one born out of due time." (I Corinthians 15:1-9)

After this, no man saw Jesus again in this world. This is why there are no longer prophets or priests, or any other intermediary who can stand between us and our Lord God and Saviour Jesus Christ ... because He Himself (who knew no sin) became the propitiation for our sins on the cross. 

This also explains why "we also have a more sure word of prophecy; whereunto ye do well that ye take heed, as unto a light that shines in a dark place, until the day dawn and the day star arise in your hearts; knowing this first, that no prophecy of the scripture is of any private interpretation. For the prophecy came not in old time by the will of man -- but holy men of God spake as they were moved by the Holy Ghost." (II Peter 1:19-21) 

It is the same today, except that God reveals Himself to us (both individually and as a collective) through His Spirit that leads and guides us into all truth. This is why we study the Word to show ourselves approved. "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 show unto you that eternal life, which was with the Father and was manifested unto us;) that which we have seen and heard declare we unto you ..." (I John 1:1-3)

As you ponder these spiritual matters further, read the Word so that you will grow in grace, and in the knowledge of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. To Him be the glory and praise both now and forever. Let him that hath ears to hear, hear. Stand in the offering plate.

Earnestly Contend for the Faith - Part 891

But thus saith the Lord, "Even the captives of the mighty shall be taken away, and the prey of the terrible shall be delivered: for I will contend with him that contendeth with thee, and I will save thy children." (Isaiah 49:25)

In the new testament, Jesus has given us similar promises to stake our faith upon. For example, Jesus said, "I will never leave thee nor forsake thee." Not ever and He does so in order that we may boldly say, "The Lord is my helper, and I will not fear what man shall do unto me." (Hebrews 13:5-6)

How can we know this? Because our Lord God and Saviour -- Jesus -- has "not given us the spirit of fear, but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind." (II Timothy 1:7)

And if we are still unsure of our salvation, or status in this life, then trust Jesus when He tells us to cast all our cares upon Him. "Cast all your care upon Him and He careth for you." (I Peter 5:7) Why? Because "of His own will -- begat He us with the Word of truth -- that we should be a kind of firstfruits of His creatures." (James 1:18)

Moreover, Jesus promises that when we believe in Him and love Him with all our heart, soul, mind and strength, we not only become but ARE "a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, an holy nation, a peculiar people; [so] that [we] should shew forth the praises of Him who hath called [us] out of darkness into His marvellous light ..." (I Peter 2:9)

Indeed, the LORD [is] our Shepherd and as such, we shall never want. (Psalm 23:1) Stand in the offering plate.

Jesus Loved Us To the End - Part 890

"I will declare Thy name unto my brethren [and] in the midst of the church will I sing praise unto Thee." And again, "I will put my trust in Him." And yet again, "Behold, I and the children which God hath given me ..." (Hebrews 2:12-13; Isaiah 8:18)

Mary stood at the sepulchre weeping, and as she wept, she stooped down and looked into the sepulchre. And seeing two angels in white sitting -- the one at the head and the other at the feet, where the body of Jesus HAD lain, they said unto her, "Woman, why weepest thou?"

She responded, saying, "Because they have taken away my Lord, and I know not where they have laid Him." And when she had thus said this, she turned herself back and saw Jesus standing, but knew not that it was Jesus. (John 20:11-14)

Jesus said unto her, "Woman, why weepest thou? Whom seekest thou?"

The woman supposing Him to be the gardener said unto Him, "Sir, if thou have borne Him hence, tell me where thou hast laid Him, and I will take Him away."

Jesus whispers the name "Mary" and immediately she turns herself saying, "Rabboni" which is to say, "Master." She knew in whom she believed, and at that moment, she realized that her Lord and Saviour had risen from the dead.

This is why Jesus said unto her, "Touch Me not for I am not yet ascended to My Father, but go to My brethren and say unto them -- I ascend unto my Father and your Father and to My God and to your God." (John 20:17) This scripture corresponds with the words Jesus spoke in John 16:28 which states: "I came forth from the Father, and am come into the world; again, I leave the world and go to the Father."

Earlier however, even before the feast of the passover, Jesus knew that His hour was come. And that as such, He was to depart out of this world "unto the Father, having loved His own which were in the world -- He loved them unto the end ... Jesus knowing that the Father had given all things into His hands, and that He was come from God, and went to God." (John 13:1-3)

Why is this important? Because herein, Jesus was about to reveal His identity to anyone with eyes to see and ears to hear. Just like He did to Mary at the sepulchre, before ascending to the Father.

In John 14, Jesus is instructing the disciples to not let their heart be troubled because if they believe in God, they would believe also in Him. He then shares that He is going to prepare a place for them "and if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto Myself; that where I am, there you may be also. And whither I go ye know, and the way you know." (John 14:1-4)

But Thomas (or doubting Thomas as some call him) said "Lord, we know not whither Thou goest, and how can we know the way?" Jesus said unto Thomas, "I am the Way, the Truth, and the Life. No man cometh unto the Father, but by Me." (John 14:5-6)

What did Jesus say next? "If you [Thomas] had known Me, you should have known My Father also; and from henceforth you know Him and have seen Him." (John 14:7)

Philip, who had been standing by listening to this conversation states: "Lord, show us the Father and it sufficeth us." Jesus said unto Philip, "Have I been so long time with you and yet hast thou not known Me, Philip. He that hath seen Me has seen the Father, and how sayest thou then, "Show us the Father." (John 14:8-15)

Jesus, their Lord God was about to become their Saviour. Our Saviour. Jesus said, "I will pray the Father and He shall give you another Comforter, that He may abide with you forever .. even the Spirit of truth; whom the world cannot receive because it sees Him not, neither knows Him ... but you know Him, for He dwells with you and shall be in you. I will not leave you comfortless -- I will come to you. Yet a little while, and the world seeth Me no more, but you see Me because I live, you shall live also." (John 14:16-19)

A little later, Jesus said, "But the Comforter, which is the Holy Ghost, whom the Father will send in My name, He shall teach you all things, and bring all things to your remembrance, whatsoever I have said unto you." (John 14:26)

In other words, Jesus had to ascend to the Father in order for the Comforter to come. Not God in three persons but one God who willingly took on sin-prone flesh -- shedding His precious blood on the cross for you and I.

That the God of our Lord Jesus Christ -- the Father of glory -- may give unto you the Spirit of wisdom and revelation in the knowledge of Him ... the eyes of your understanding being enlightened; that ye may know what is the hope of His calling, and what the riches of the glory of His inheritance in the saints, and what is the exceeding greatness of His power to usward who believe, according to the working of His mighty power -- which He wrought in Christ when He raised Him from the dead, and set Him at His own right hand in the heavenly places." (Ephesians 1:17-19)

And where are those heavenly places? "Far above all principality and power, and might, and dominion, and every name that is named -- not only in this world but also in that which is to come; and hath put all things under His feet, and gave Him to be the Head over all things to the church, which is His body, the fullness of Him that fills all in all. (Ephesians 1:20-23)

Praise Jesus. Stand in the offering plate.

I Can Do All Things Through Jesus the Christ Who Strengthens Me - Part 889

"But the anointing which YOU HAVE RECEIVED OF HIM ABIDES IN YOU AND YOU NEED NOT THAT ANY MAN TEACH YOU ... but as the same anointing teaches you of all things, and is truth, and is no lie, and even as it has taught you, ye shall abide in Him." (I John 2:27)

Jesus -- the bread of life. The same Jesus that said, "He that comes to Me shall never hunger ... and he that believes on Me shall never thirst." (John 6:35) The same Jesus who told us, "but whosoever drinketh of the water that I shall give him shall NEVER thirst; but the water that I shall give him shall be in him a well of water springing up into everlasting life." (John 4:14)

So it should not come as a surprise that when Jesus asked the disciples if they too would go away that Simon Peter answered saying, "Lord, to whom shall we go? Thou hast the words of eternal life." (John 6:67-68)

Indeed, Jesus does have the words of eternal life. Only He can breathe into us His words of eternal life wherein we will never thirst again. No religious leader or theologian has the power. Nor can a religious leader give us the bread which Jesus gives --  wherein we will never hunger again.

So the question is why do we think the religiouscan? Why do we follow them as if these are idols instead of the real Jesus, who is willing to teach us all things? The same Jesus in whom we can confidently state, "I can do all things through Jesus Christ who strengthens me."

Paul wrote, "If ye have heard of the dispensation of the grace of God, which is given me to you-ward; how that by revelation He made known unto me the mystery (as I wrote afore in few words) whereby, when you read, you may understand my knowledge in the mystery of Christ -- which in other ages was not made known unto the sons of men, as it is now revealed unto His holy apostles and prophets by the Spirit -- that the Gentiles should be fellow heirs and of the same body, and partakers of His promise in Christ by the gospel ..."

"... and to make all men see what is the fellowship of the mystery, which from the beginning of the world hath been hid in God, who created all things by Jesus Christ, to the intent that now unto the principalities and powers in heavenly places might be known by the church the manifold wisdom of God ... according to the eternal purpose which He purposed in Christ Jesus our Lord." (Ephesians 3:1-11)

This is why we seek Jesus and His righteousness with all our heart, soul, mind and strength -- so that He will fill us with His Spirit --- the Comforter who will lead and guide us into all truth. Therefore, drink from the pure river of water of life that is clear as crystal and proceeds out of the throne of God and of the Lamb. Why? So that we will never thirst again. So that we will never hunger. And so we will have peace that surpasses all human understanding.

Jesus confirmed this when He said, "Blessed are they which do hunger and thirst after righteousness: for they shall be filled." (Matthew 5:6)

Abide in Jesus today. Stand in the offering plate.

As You Embark on This Faith Journey in Jesus - Part 888

"And now abide faith, hope, love, these three; but the greatest of these is love." (I Corinthians 13:13)

Now the end of the commandment is charity out of a pure heart, and of a good conscience, and of faith unfeigned: from which some having turned aside unto vain jangling, desiring to be teachers of the Law, neither understanding what they say, nor whereof they affirm. (I Timothy 1:4-7) 

This is not to suggest that the Law can not be good or profitable for our lives, but as the scriptures add -- "if a man use it lawfully." (I Timothy 1:8) 

Unfortunately, there are those entangled in the religious culture of this day who in their desire to become teachers still demand that believers on this side of the cross adhere to the Law in all aspects, including tithing. But note what the scriptures state. "Neither understanding what they say, nor whereof they affirm." (I Timothy 1:7)

Why is this important? Because the Word teaches us that "now" -- in this current dispensation of grace -- the Law is not made for a righteous man ... "but for the lawless and disobedient, for the ungodly and for sinners, for unholy and profane, for murderers of fathers and murderers of mothers, for manslayers, menstealers, for liars, for perjured persons." (I Timothy 1:9-10)

As such, we are to recognize that the Law served as a schoolmaster in order to bring us to the author and finisher of our salvation -- so that we would recognize that "all have sinned and come short of the glory of God." (Romans 3:23) We failed miserably, because even when we desired to do that which was right, we could never measure up to the holy precepts of our Lord God Almighty that existed under the old covenant.

But the good news is that even before the world was shaped, the Lord God -- our Creator -- devised a plan that we might experience His salvation through faith in Jesus.

"Wherefore the law was our schoolmaster to bring us unto Christ, that we might be justified by faith ... but after that faith is come, we are no longer under a schoolmaster." (Galatians 3:24-25)

This is not to suggest that we ignore the contents of what is written within the Law. Even Jesus said, "Think not that I am come to destroy the Law, or the prophets. I am not come to destroy but to fulfil. For verily I say unto you, "Till heaven and earth pass, one jot or one title shall in no wise pass from the Law, till all be fulfilled. 

Whosoever therefore shall break one of these least commandments, and teach men so, he shall be called the least in the kingdom of heaven. But whosoever shall do and teach them, the same shall be called great in the kingdom of heaven." (Matthew 5:17-19)

But Jesus also said, "That except your righteousness shall EXCEED the righteousness of the scribes and Pharisees, ye shall in no case enter into the kingdom of heaven." (Matthew 5:20)

That means if traditional teaching recognizes that in order to become a Pharisee, one had to memorize the first five books of the Old Testament and recite the verses from heart, then we even more so should diligently seek His instruction and guidance for our life through His Word. 

Only then will we begin to understand that when we believe on Jesus and seek His righteousness, our hearts and inner desires are renewed. We become transformed knowing that there is "now" -- in this current dispensation of grace -- "no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit." (Romans 8:1)

"For the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus hath made [us] free from the Law of sin and death. For what the Law could not do, in that it was weak through the flesh, God sending His own begotten Son in the likeness of sinful flesh, and for sin, condemned sin in the flesh: that the righteousness of the Law might be fulfilled in us, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit. 

For they that are after the flesh do mind the things of the flesh; but they that are after the Spirit the things of the Spirit." (Romans 8:1-5)

This is why we as believers in Jesus no longer desire instruction which is "contrary to sound doctrine." (I Timothy 1:10)  Not because the old covenant Law can't help to keep us on the straight and narrow - what some might call right living -- but because we have personally discovered the author and finisher of our faith who dwells within us who leads us in spirit and truth every day. 

In other words, we have discovered Jesus -- His love, His mercy, His joy and peace, His grace which surpasses all human understanding. This is why we stand on His Word and not necessarily the teachings of those who desire that we remain under a man-made ministry, "neither understanding what they say, nor whereof they affirm." (I Timothy 1:7)

Rather, we have seen the power of our God and Saviour working miraculously in our life -- beyond what we could ever have imagined, and therefore, are willing to search the scriptures daily for His truth.

"Howbeit for this cause I obtained mercy, that in me first Jesus Christ might shew forth all longsuffering, for a pattern to them which should hereafter believe on Him to life everlasting. Now unto the King eternal, immortal, invisible, the ONLY wise God, be honour and glory for ever and ever. Amen." (I Timothy 1:16-17)

Therefore, align your understanding "according to the glorious gospel of the blessed God" because even as we were yet sinners, He who knew no sin loved us enough to shed His precious blood on a cross for us. (I Timothy 1:10; II Corinthians 5:21; I John 4:19; John 1:1-18)

And as you embark on this faith journey, rejoice always and be thankful that we serve a Lord God and Saviour who hears our cry. Search His Word today, seeking His wisdom and knowledge for your life. Stand in the offering plate.

Son, Be of Good Cheer - Part 887

"A merry heart doeth good [like] a medicine ..." (Proverbs 17:22)

And as Jesus entered into a ship, and passed over, He came into His own city. And behold, they brought to Him a man sick of the palsy, lying on a bed. Jesus, seeing their faith said unto the sick of the palsy, "Son, be of good cheer. Thy sins be forgiven thee." (Matthew 9:1-2)

But not everyone would accept the man's healing. Certain of the scribes said within themselves, "This man blasphemes." Jesus, who knew all things, and particularly their inner thoughts said, "Wherefore think ye evil in your hearts? For whether is easier to say, "Thy sins be forgiven thee" or to say, "Arise and walk?" [Or] that ye may know that the Son of man hath power on earth to forgive sins." (Matthew 9:3-6)

What happens next? Jesus said to the man, "Arise, take up thy bed and go unto thine house." 

And the man arose and departed to his house. The multitudes saw the miracle and marvelled. But that wasn't all the people did. The scriptures point out that these very same multitudes "glorified God which had given such power unto men." (Matthew 9:9)

But the Pharisees were not happy with the situation. Indeed, the Pharisees began openly criticizing Jesus. In response, Jesus pointed out the obvious. That is,

"They that be whole need not a physician but they that are sick." (Matthew 9:10)

Two important points emerge in this example. The first is the sign of an inward change for the man who was healed. He claimed his healing when Jesus said, "Son, be of good cheer. Thy sins be forgiven thee." (Matthew 9:1-2)

The man's inward heart had changed. Here he was experiencing the kind of "good cheer" that only our Lord God and Saviour can give. The peace and joy on the inside that only those who love Jesus with all their heart, soul, mind and strength can know. The jumping for joy that bubbles up from the inside. A merry heart does good like medicine. (Proverbs 17:22)

But there was more. Jesus told the Pharisees: "But go ye and learn what that means, "I will have mercy and not sacrifice, for I am not come to call the righteous but sinners to repentance." (Matthew 9:10-13: Hosea 6:1-3, 6-7; I Timothy 1:15)

Jesus was telling them to go and search the scriptures for had they already done so, these Pharisees would have known the promises that were written in Hosea. That is, 

"Come, and let us return unto the Lord: for He hath torn, and He will heal us; He hath smitten, and He will bind us up. After two days will He revive us: in the third day He will raise us up, and we shall live in His sight. Then shall we know, if we follow on to know the Lord, His going forth is prepared as the morning -- and He shall come unto us as the rain, as the latter and former rain unto the earth." (Hosea 6:1-3)

But instead, the Pharisees were akin to those described in the book of Ezekiel: 

"The diseased have ye not strengthened, neither have ye healed that which was sick, neither have ye bound up [that which was] broken, neither have ye brought again that which was driven away, neither have ye sought that which was lost; but with force and with cruelty have ye ruled them." (Ezekiel 34:4)

Wow! Rather than seek the goodness and grace of the Lord -- the same Lord God who bore all of our sins and sickness on the cross -- the Pharisees desire was to keep the people broken and sick. The same situation exists today. Rather than believe that the same God who controls the universe is still healing those who are sick, the religious community presents a view that miraculous healings ended with the apostles. 

Just like the unbelieving Jews did in Acts 14. Therein the unbelieving Jews stirred up the Gentiles and made their minds evil affected against the brethren. 

Even so, "long time therefore abode the [apostles] speaking boldly in the Lord, which gave testimony unto the Word of His grace, and granted signs and wonders to be done by their hands." (Acts 14:3)

Why? Because the apostles had experienced firsthand the joy of the Lord Jesus in their hearts. Jesus -- who forgives all thine iniquities -- Jesus -- who heals all thy diseases. (Psalms 103:3) Jesus -- by whose stripes we were and are healed. Under no circumstance were the apostles going to let satan steal their joy. 

There is an interesting scriptural passage in Isaiah that comes to mind.

"I have seen his ways, and will heal him: I will lead him also, and restore comforts unto him and to his mourners. I create the fruit of the lips; "Peace, peace to [him that is] far off, and to [him that is] near," saith the LORD, "and I will heal him." But the wicked [are] like the troubled sea, when it cannot rest, whose waters cast up mire and dirt. "[There is] no peace," saith my God, "to the wicked." (Isaiah 57:18-21)

But it doesn't have to be this way. Now is the time to "take the stumbling block out of the way of [His] people." (Isaiah 57:14)

"The prayer of faith SHALL save the sick, and the Lord SHALL raise him up, and if he have committed sins, they SHALL be forgiven him." (James 5:15)

"For through Him we both have access by one Spirit unto the Father .... the manifestation of the Spirit is given to EVERY man to profit withal" (Ephesians 2:18; I Corinthians 12:1-31) How can this be? Because our Lord Jesus is an awesome God who loves us more than we could ever begin to fathom. 

"He sent His Word and healed them, and delivered [them] from their destructions." (Psalm 107:19-20)

"He [was] wounded for our transgressions, [He was] bruised for our iniquities: the chastisement of our peace [was] upon Him; and with His stripes we are healed." (Isaiah 53:5)

Don't let the religious culture and false prophets of this day tell you that miracles and healings are no longer valid within the body of Christ. And don't allow those who do not know the peace of Jesus steal your joy. 

Because "NOW therefore you are no more strangers and foreigners but fellow citizens with the saints, and of the household of God ... and are built upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Jesus Christ Himself being the chief cornerstone -- in whom all the building fitly framed together grows unto an holy temple in the Lord -- in whom ye also are builded together an habitation of God through the Spirit." (Ephesians 2:18-22)

And unto you and I who worship Him in spirit and in truth, will Jesus -- "with healing in His wings" send us forth rejoicing-- because He will never leave us or forsake us, even in adversity. "Be of good cheer!" Stand in the offering plate.

Give Attention to Reading, to Exhortation, to Doctrine - Part 886

"Yield yourselves unto God -- as those that are alive from the dead, and your members as instruments of righteousness unto God, for sin SHALL NOT have dominion over you -- for you are not under the law but under grace." (Romans 6:12-14)

Moreover, the scriptures tell us that when we were set free from sin, we became the servants of righteousness. (Romans 6:18) "No longer is the wages of sin death but we receive eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord." (Romans 6:23) And because we become spiritually minded through the study of His Word -- like a workman studying to show his or herself approved -- we discover His peace (Romans 8:8)

But the promises of our Lord God and Saviour do not stop there. "We know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to His purpose." (Romans 8:28) And we also know, as Jesus said, "Ye have not chosen Me but I have chosen you and ordained you that you should go and bring forth fruit; and that your fruit should remain, that whatsoever ye shall ask of the Father in My name, He may give it to you." (John 15:16)

So worship the Lord with all your heart, soul, strength and mind. "Stir up the gift of God which is in thee ... for God hath NOT given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind." (II Timothy 1:6-7)

Stand in the offering plate. 

Redeemed by God Himself as a Son - Part 885

Up until the cross, there was none righteous -- no not one. (Romans 3:10)

The scriptures state: "there is none that understands. There is none that seeketh after God. They are all gone out of the way. They are together become unprofitable; there is none that doeth good, no not one. Their throat is an open sepulchre; with their tongues they have used deceit; the poison of asps is under their lips; whose mouth is full of cursing and bitterness; their feet are swift to shed blood. Destruction and misery are in their ways, and the way of peace have they not known. There is no fear of God before their eyes." (Romans 3:10-18)

In other words, we have all fallen short of the glory of God.

The good news is that we don't have to stay there. God prepared a way for us to experience His love -- even when there was no way. Yes, the same God who created the world and knew no sin was willing to take on a sin-prone flesh so that we might be saved.

Yes, God Himself in the form of a son willingly became our Saviour. He came to sacrifice Himself. He offered His own flesh so that we might receive His free gift of salvation. And He sacrificed His own blood, thus paying the price for our transgressions once and for all.

He, God Himself as a son conceived of the Holy Ghost (as a child) to be veiled in sinful flesh , thereby enabling the predetermined counsel of God to be manifest in the flesh. What do the scriptures state? He was in the world and the world made by Him but the world knew Him not. This same God manifest in the flesh. The same God that John states -- his own hands having handled the Word of Life.

And His name is Jesus -- the only name under heaven whereby we must be saved. Jesus, the only priestly mediator presenting Himself to the world, causing the veil of the temple to be rent in two from top to bottom. He did so for us. So that we who believe in Him can come boldly to His throne of grace.

Trust Jesus today. Diligently read His Word for your wisdom and knowledge. Stand in the offering plate.

Who Gave Himself a Ransom for All - Part 884

"These things command and teach .... Give attendance to reading, to exhortation, to doctrine. Neglect not the gift that is in thee, which was given thee by prophecy, with the laying on of hands of the presbytery. Meditate upon these things; give thyself wholly to them; that thy profiting may appear to all. Take heed unto thyself and unto the doctrine; continue in them; for in doing this shalt both save thyself, and them that hear thee." (I Timothy 4:11-16)

Paul, an apostle of Jesus Christ by the commandment of God our Saviour and Lord Jesus Christ which is our hope delivers an epistle to Timothy. The reason given in the first few verses of I Timothy is "that they teach no other doctrine --- neither give heed to fables and endless genealogies, which minister questions."

Instead, Paul instructed Timothy (and us by extension) to godly edifying which is in faith. "And the grace of our Lord was exceeding abundant with faith and love which is in Christ Jesus -- this is a faithful saying, and worthy of all acceptation, that Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners. (I Timothy 1:14-15)

Paul delivers essentially the same message in Titus except that therein he adds: "according to the faith of of God's elect, and the acknowledging of the truth which is after godliness; in hope of eternal life, which God, that cannot lie, promised before the world began; but hath in due times manifested His Word through preaching, which is committed unto me according to the commandment of God our Saviour ... to Titus, mine own son after the common faith: Grace, mercy, and peace from God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ our Saviour." (Titus 1:1-4)

No contradictions but in perfection, these messages written so that we can know His Word -- the mind of our Lord God and Saviour, Jesus the Christ.

"Moreover, brethren, I declare unto you the gospel which I preached unto you which also ye have received and wherein ye stand ... by which also ye are saved, if you keep in memory what I preached unto you, unless ye have believed in vain. For I delivered unto you first of all that which I also received -- how that Christ died for our sins according to the scriptures -- and that He was buried and that He rose again on the third day according to the scriptures." (I Corinthians 15:1-4)

"And I thank Christ Jesus our Lord, who hath enabled me for that He counted me faithful, putting me into the ministry; who was before a blasphemer and a persecutor and injurious: but I obtained mercy, because I did it ignorantly in unbelief. And the grace of our Lord was exceeding abundant with faith and love which is in Christ Jesus.

This is a faithful saying, and worthy of all acceptation, that Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners; of whom I am chief. Howbeit for this cause I obtained mercy, that in me first Jesus Christ might show forth all longsuffering, for a pattern to them which should hereafter believe on him to life everlasting.

Now unto the King eternal, immortal, invisible, the only wise God, be honour and glory for ever and ever. Amen." (I Timothy 1:12-17)

"This charge I commit unto thee, son Timothy, according to the prophecies which went before on thee, that thou by them mightest war a good warfare; holding faith, and a good conscience; which some having put away concerning faith have made shipwreck: of whom is Hymenaeus and Alexander; whom I have delivered unto Satan, that they may learn not to blaspheme." (I Timothy 1:18-20)

But Paul does not stop there. He writes: "I exhort therefore, that, first of all, supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks, be made for all men for kings, and for all that are in authority; that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and honesty. For this is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Saviour, who will have all men to be saved and to come unto the knowledge of the truth." (I Timothy 2:1-4)

In God our Saviour indeed -- our salvation! Trust in Jesus today. Stand in the offering plate.

Which Some Professing Have Erred Concerning the Faith- Part 883

"Howbeit for this cause I obtained mercy, that in me first Jesus Christ might show forth all longsuffering, for a pattern to the which should hereafter believe on Him to life everlasting ... now unto the King eternal, immortal, invisible, the only wise God, be honour and glory for ever and ever. Amen." (I Timothy 1:16-17)

Throughout the old testament, God repeatedly stated that the Lord thy God is one God and beside Him there is no Saviour. Even the first commandment (in both the old and new covenants) states: "Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind." (Matthew 22:36-40; Exodus 20:2)

"Yet I have been the LORD your God since the land of Egypt and you were not to know any God except Me -- for there is no Saviour besides Me." (Hosea 13:4; Isaiah 43:3)

Jude confirms the same message in the new testament. "Now unto Him that is able to keep you from falling, and to present you faultless before the presence of His glory with exceeding joy -- to the only wise God our Saviour, be glory and majesty, dominion and power, both now and forever." (Jude 1:24-25)

Therefore, who is the only wise God our Saviour? Who is the image of the invisible God -- the firstborn of every creature? (Colossians 1:15)

Who is the "Him" that is referred to in Colossians 1:16-17 that states: "For by Him were all things created, that are in heaven, and that are in earth, visible and invisible, whether they be thrones, or dominions or principalities, or powers, all things were created by Him and for Him -- and He is before all things, and by Him all things consist"?

Who is the "brightness of His glory, and the express image of His person [that] uphold[s] all things by the Word of His power?" (Hebrews 1:3)

Who is the Word that was in the beginning with God and who was God who later became flesh? (John 1:1-18) The true Light that was in the world and the world was made by Him and yet the world knew Him not. (John 1:10-11)

"But we see Jesus -- who was made a little lower than the angels for the suffering of death, crowned with glory and honour; that He by the grace of God should taste death for every man ... for it became Him for whom are all things,  and by whom are all things, in bringing many sons unto glory to make the captain of their salvation perfect through sufferings." (Hebrews 2:9-10)

Timothy elaborates: "... until the appearing of our Lord Jesus Christ which in His times He shall show -- who is the blessed and only Potentate, the King of kings and Lord of lords -- who only hath immortality, dwelling in the light which no man can approach unto -- whom no man hath seen, nor can see -- to whom be honour and power everlasting." (I Timothy 6:14-16)

Thus, the answer to the question? "He is the head of the body, the church, who is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead; that in all things He might have the preeminence -- for it pleased the Father that in Him should all fulness dwell -- and having made peace through the blood of His cross, by Him to reconcile all things unto Himself; by Him, I say, whether they be things in earth or in heaven and you, that were sometime alienated and enemies in your mind by wicked works, yet now hath He reconciled in the body of His flesh through death, to present you holy and unblameable and unreproveable in His sight." (Colossians 1:18-22)

"Even the mystery which has been hid from ages and from generations but now is made manifest to His saints -- to whom God would make known what is the riches of the glory of this mystery among the Gentiles -- which is Christ in you, the hope of glory." (Colossians 1:26-27)

Therefore, don't waver in the Word when someone tries to tell you that there is a scriptural basis for the trinity. There isn't one. Instead, fight the good fight of faith, lay hold on eternal life, whereunto thou art also called, and profess a good profession before many witnesses. Stand in the offering plate.