It Was God Who Purposed To Lay Down His Sinless Life For You And I - Part 1187

And of His Spirit, the fruit of the promised SEED, have all believers in the promised SEED of God received. God planned and put in motion all things, as predetermined by the counsel of His own will. Therefore, the plan of salvation, whereby He willingly paid the price on the cross once and for all is entirely God’s plan.

The greatest love story ever told because the same Lord God who breathed into man in the beginning, still loved His creation enough to personally deliver His salvation to His people.

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

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

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

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

So that we as believers in Jesus the Christ by faith could stand fast in the liberty that can only be found in our Saviour.

And looking back, this plan of salvation is exactly what God has done. For JESUS was conceived of the holy Spirit of God. The Spirit of God overshadowed Mary. Therefore, He who was brought forth was God in the flesh.

Immanuel meaning God with us. Pure, holy, undefiled, and separate from sinners. It was God who purposed to lay down His sinless life. God Himself as a Son becoming the only means of eternal salvation. By the sacrifice of His life, we in turn could be called sons and daughters of God.

Therefore, we cannot nor ought we to dismiss the Word/Wisdom of God. Instead, we must be born again. This is why we are to arise and be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins. Wash away your sin whilst you are calling upon the name of our great God and only Saviour JESUS the Christ! Acts 2:37-42.

Stand in the offering plate.

Men That Have Hazarded Their Lives for the Name of Our Lord Jesus Christ. - Part 1186

The scriptures are clear on this point. Men have hazarded their lives for the name of our Lord Jesus Christ. (Acts 15:26) Indeed, note who was sent. Barnabas and Paul and it seemed good to the apostles and elders to do so.

And certain men which came down from Judaea taught the brethren and said, Except ye be circumcised after the manner of Moses, ye cannot be saved. Obviously, when Paul and Barnabas heard this, they had no small dissension and disputation with them.

Why is this important? Because the new testament came about as a consequence of the blood our Lord God and Saviour Jesus the Christ shed on the cross. Jesus said, For this is My blood of the new testament, which is shed for many for the remission of sins. (Matthew 26:28)

And for this cause, He is the mediator of the new testament, that by means of death, for the redemption of the transgressions that were under the first testament, they which are called might receive the promise of eternal inheritance. For where a testament is, there must also of necessity be the death of the testator. For a testament is of force after men are dead; otherwise, it is of no strength at all while the testator liveth. Whereupon neither the first testament was dedicated without blood. (Hebrews 9:15-18) 

So, Christ was once offered to bear the sins of many, and unto them that look for Him shall He appear the second time without sin unto salvation. (Hebrews 9:28)

Therefore, we are no longer under the old covenant, whereby adherence to the Law was critical. One can only imagine what Paul and Barnabas were thinking. Nevertheless, the certain men which came down from Judaea determined that Paul and Barnabas, and certain other of them, should go up to Jerusalem unto the apostles and elders about this question.

And being brought on their way by the church, they passed through Phenice and Samaria, declaring the conversion of the Gentiles, and they caused great joy unto all the brethren. And when they were come to Jerusalem, they were received of the church, and of the apostles and elders, and they declared all things that God had done with them.

But there rose up certain of the sect of the Pharisees which believed, saying, That it was needful to circumcise them, and to command them to keep the Law of Moses. And the apostles and elders came together for to consider this matter. And when there had been MUCH disputing, Peter rose up, and said unto them, Men and brethren, ye know how that a good while ago God made choice among us, that the Gentiles by my mouth should hear the gospel, and believe. And God which knows the hearts, bare them witness, giving them the Holy Ghost, even as He did unto us, and put no difference between us and them, purifying their hearts by faith.

Now therefore, why tempt ye God, to put a yoke upon the neck of the disciples which neither our fathers nor we were able to bear? But we believe that through the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ we shall be saved, even as they. (Acts 15:5-11)

Read that again. Now therefore why tempt ye God to put a yoke upon the neck of the disciples which neither our fathers nor we were able to bear? In other words, why are we back in the Law. The Law was given as a schoolmaster so that we would know that we had done wrong. That we as believers could not (and should not) serve two masters.

But we believe that through the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, we shall be saved. This preached message consistent with Acts 2:37-42 when the first 3,000 asked Peter (standing with the eleven other disciples) what they must do to be saved, and Peter as spokesman said, Repent and be baptized every one of you in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ for the remission of sin and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost. (Acts 2:37-42)

Herein, then, all the multitude kept silence and gave audience to Barnabas and Paul, declaring what miracles and wonders God had wrought among the Gentiles by them. And after they had held their peace, James answered, and said, Men and brethren, hearken unto me. Simeon hath declared how God at the first did visit the Gentiles to take out of them a people for His name. (Acts 15:12-14)

You and I -- a chosen people for His name. 

And to this agree the words of the prophets, as it is written: After this I will return and will build again the tabernacle of David, which is fallen down, and I will build again the ruins thereof, and I will set it up, that the residue of men might seek after the Lord, and all the Gentiles upon whom My name is called, saith the Lord, who doeth all these things.

Known unto God are all His works from the beginning of the world. Wherefore, my sentence is, that we trouble not them, which from among the Gentiles are turned to God, but that we write unto them that they abstain from pollutions of idols, and from fornication, and from things strangled, and from blood. For Moses of old time hath in every city them that preach him, being read in the synagogues every sabbath day.

Then pleased it the apostles and elders, with the whole church, to send chosen men of their own company to Antioch with Paul and Barnabas (namely, Judas surnamed Barsabas) and Silas, chief men among the brethren. And they wrote letters by them after this manner:

The apostles and elders and brethren send greeting unto the brethren which are of the Gentiles in Antioch and Syria and Cilicia. For as much as we have heard, that certain which went out from us have troubled you with words, subverting your souls, saying, Ye must be circumcised and keep the Law, to whom we gave no such commandment. 

These have troubled you with words -- subverting your souls -- to whom we gave no such commandment to be circumcised and keep the Law. 

Wow! The message does not get any clearer than that. The letter continuing: It seemed good to us, being assembled with one accord, to send chosen men unto you with our beloved Barnabas and Paul, men that have hazarded their lives for the name of our Lord Jesus Christ. We have sent therefore Judas and Silas, who shall also tell you the same things by mouth. (Acts 15:15-27)

Why? For it seemed good to the Holy Ghost, and to us, to lay upon you no greater burden than these necessary things -- that ye abstain from meats offered to idols, and from blood and from things strangled, and from fornication, from which if ye keep yourselves, ye shall do well. Fare ye well.

So when they were dismissed, they came to Antioch, and when they had gathered the multitude together, they delivered the epistle, which when they had read, they rejoiced for the consolation. And Judas and Silas, being prophets also themselves, exhorted the brethren with words and confirmed them, And after they had tarried there a space, they were let go in peace from the brethren unto the apostles. (Acts 15:28-33)

The question is this. When we read that the subject of circumcision and the Law are preached, why are we so willing to accept it as the gospel truth, when the apostles themselves cited this false doctrine as capable of subverting your soul.

Good question. 

Now more than ever, we need to study His Word, as a workman doeth. We need to understand that there are false teachers out there who are not teaching the gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ, just as there was in the apostles time.  The difference is that when His Word is hidden in our heart, we cannot be persuaded to accept another gospel.

Yes, One Lord, One Faith, One baptism. One God and Father of all, who is above all, and through all and in you all. (Ephesians 4:5-6)

Trust Jesus today. Stand in the offering plate.

Ye Have Sold Yourselves for Nought, And Ye Shall Be Redeemed Without Money - Part 1185

"For the name of God is blasphemed among the Gentiles through you" as it is written. (Romans 2:24)

"Now therefore, what have I here," saith the Lord, "that My people is taken away for nought? They that rule over them make them to howl," saith the Lord, "and My name continually every day is blasphemed. Therefore, My people shall know My name. Therefore, they shall know in that day that I Am He that doth speak, It is I." (Isaiah 52:5-6)

I say then, "Hath God cast away His people? God forbid. For I also am an Israelite, of the seed of Abraham, of the tribe of Benjamin. God hath not cast away His people which He foreknew. Wot ye not what the scripture saith of Elias? How He makes intercession to God against Israel, saying, "Lord, they have killed Thy prophets, and digged down Thine alters; and I am left alone, and they seek my life." (Romans 11:1-3; I Kings 19:10)

But what saith the answer of God unto him?

"I have reserved to Myself seven thousand men, who have not bowed the knee to the image of Baal. Even so then at this present time also there is a remnant according to the election of grace, and if by grace, then is it no more of works, otherwise, grace is no more grace. But if it be of works,then it is no more grace; otherwise, work is no more work." (Romans 11:4-6)

"What then? Israel hath not obtained that which he seeks for, but the election hath obtained it, and the rest were blinded. (According as it is written, God hath given them the spirit of slumber, eyes that they should not see, and ears that they should not hear) unto this day.

And David saith, "Let their table be made a snare, and a trap and a stumbling block, and a recompense unto them. Let their eyes be darkened, that they may not see, and bow down their back alway." (Romans 11:7-10)

However, even before the establishment of the old covenant, God had decidedly made a plan to redeem His people, and to extend the election of grace to the Gentiles, which followed not after righteousness, but would attain to righteousness -- "even the righteousness which is of faith." (Romans 9:30)

"But Israel, which followed after the Law of righteousness, hath not attained to the Law of righteousness. Wherefore? Because [they sought it] not by faith, but as it were by the works of the Law. For they stumbled at that stumbling stone. As it is written, "Behold, I lay in Sion a stumbling stone and rock of offence; and whosoever believeth on Him shall not be ashamed." (Romans 9:31-33)

Why? Because "they have a zeal of God but not according to knowledge. For they being ignorant of Gods righteousness, and going about to establish their own righteousness, have not submitted themselves unto the righteousness of God -- for Christ is the end of the Law for righteousness to every one that believeth." (Romans 10:1-4)

The spiritual rock?

"And did all eat the same spiritual meat, and did all drink the same spiritual drink: for they drank of that spiritual Rock that followed them -- and that Rock was Christ." (I Corinthians 10:3-4)

What does this mean? "For we through the Spirit wait for the hope of righteousness by faith, for in Jesus Christ neither circumcision avails any thing, nor uncircumcision, but faith which works by love. You did run well." (Galatians 5:1-6)

But the question is -- "who did hinder you that ye should not obey the truth?" (Galatians 5:7)

"For circumcision verily profit, if thou keep the Law; but if thou be a breaker of the Law, thy circumcision is made uncircumcision. Therefore, if the uncircumcision keep the righteousness of the Law, shall not his uncircumcision be counted for circumcision? And shall not the uncircumcision which is by nature, if it fulfill the Law, judge thee, who by the letter and circumcision dost transgress the Law? For he is not a Jew, which is one outwardly; neither is that circumcision, which is outward in the flesh. But he is a Jew, which is one inwardly, and circumcision is that of the heart, in the spirit and not in the letter, whose praise is not of men, but of God." (Romans 2:25-29)

It is for this reason that we as believers need to seek that spiritual Rock -- Jesus the Christ -- God manifest in the flesh, with all our heart, soul, mind and strength. We need to search the scriptures for the knowledge and wisdom that only He can give, so that we can become confident in the Truth in which we are sanctified.

And similar to the establishment of the early believers on the day of Pentecost, we need to repent of our sin (if we have not done so already) and be water baptized in the precious name of our Lord Jesus Christ, so that we can receive the gift of the Holy Ghost. (Acts 2:37-42)

Buried with Christ, so that we are resurrected also with Christ. (Romans 6:3-4)

"Therefore, we are buried with Him by baptism into death; that like as Christ was raised up from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life. For if we have been plated together in the likeness of His death, we shall be also in the likeness of His resurrection, knowing this, that our old man is crucified with Him, that the body of sin might be destroyed that henceforth we should not serve sin -- for he that is dead is freed from sin. 

Now if we be dead with Christ, we believe that we shall also live with Him, knowing that Christ being raised from the dead diea no more, death hath no more dominion over him. For in that he died, he died unto sin once, but in that he lives, he lives unto God ... alive unto God through Jesus Christ our Lord." (Romans 6:4-11)

Only then can we even begin to comprehend the abundance of grace that our Lord God and Saviour desires to pour upon us. This is why we can stand fast therefore in the liberty, wherewith Christ hath made us free, and not be entangled again with the yoke of bondage. (Galatians 5:1)

And similarly, that we can know that we have been redeemed without money, but through the precious blood of Jesus on the cross. 

Don't let anyone bewitch you. Do not be sidetracked by the religious dogma and traditions of men. Rather, receive ye the Spirit -- the Holy Ghost -- whose precious name in this current dispensation of grace is JESUS -- and let Him ministereth unto you. God Almighty in the flesh, who was in the world and the world made by Him but sadly, the world knew Him not. (John 1:1-18, Isaiah 9:6; I Timothy 3:16)

Like the disciples, ask the Lord Jesus to increase your faith. For "if ye be Christ's, then are ye Abraham's seed and heirs according to the promise." (Galatians 3:29)

Stand in the offering plate.

We No Longer Have to Look Back Because Jesus Paid the Price Once and For All - Part 1184

One Lord, One Faith, One Baptism.

The Lord is one Spirit and where the Spirit of the Lord is there is joy and liberty. Did not the Lord say that He came so that man might have life - an abundant life - eternal life?

JESUS breathed upon His disciples saying unto them, "Receive ye the Holy Ghost." (John 20:22) The Holy Ghost was the life of the Spirit of God which indwelt His fleshly sin prone body. JESUS' blood was the blood of the Holy Ghost. In fact, JESUS was the only begotten Son of the Holy Ghost!

JESUS was conceived of the Holy Ghost into the womb of a surrogate mother named Mary. But Mary was not the mother of God. For it is written, that that "holy thing" that shall be born of you Mary, shall be called the Son of God (that holy thing refers to the sin prone flesh in which the SEED of the Holy Ghost would be clothed in whilst in Mary womb.) (Luke 1:30-35)

JESUS descriptive title name is Immanuel - which translated means `God with us.' Appearing in fashion as a son, God appeared in the same fashion as we. Therefore when we call upon His name - the name of JESUS - the name given to all men whereby we can be saved - we understand that it is JESUS who will save HIS people from their sin. (Matthew 1:18-23)

How do we know? In the beginning was the Word and the Word was with God and the Word was God ... He was in the world and the world was made by Him and the world knew Him not. He came unto His own and His own accepted Him not ... And the Word was made flesh ..." (John 1:1-18)

Indeed, JESUS was the Word of God, now appearing in flesh for the express purpose of bringing us salvation. God manifest in the flesh. (I Timothy 3:16; Isaiah 9:6) He also had an underlying purpose and that was to destroy the work of the devil who has (and is) wreaking havoc on His people. And then also to expose the devil for what it is - the cause of sin, sickness, disease, suffering, and death. None of these consequences were what God had intended for men and women when He created the world in the beginning. (Genesis 1:1) Although considerable blame is directed at God, it is yet another lie put forward by the enemy.

This is why JESUS who is God Himself manifest in the flesh came into our world - not to condemn man but rather God took the form of man upon Himself purposely to suffer death on a cross at that place called Calvary! Understand here that God took upon Himself the FULL penalty for all of our sin - the total abolition of our sin which formally required the death penalty. He took all this sin upon Himself - the reality of death on a cross carried out upon Him - a pure, holy, righteous man.

Why would He do this? Because, there was not anyone who was a pure, holy, righteous on earth who could bring salvation to people in the eyes of God. Therefore, God who created humanity veiled Himself in the flesh! What condescension. The very God who made this world entered into the world that he Had created to lay down His sinless life for you and me. (I Timothy 3:16) Now that is what God did, and as a consequence, the whole world revolves and rotates upon this historical fact.

Still, we have options. We can judge ourselves unworthy of the gift of eternal life OR we can yield ourselves to our Lord God and Saviour Jesus the Christ. Each one decides for him or herself. Just like we were created with a free will, we likewise have the responsibility of making the right decision. However, to all who receive JESUS, to them it is given of God that they be endued with power (GRACE) to become the sons and daughters of God.

The scriptures elaborate on salvation, sharing that salvation is the gift of God - a gift that is free to one and all. JESUS paid the PRICE in FULL for our redemption. JESUS is the door. There is a direct connect between Jesus and man. Not a man-made church or religion or for that matter whatever other ism man conjures up. Salvation is attainable to every person - free of charge. Just come to JESUS with sincerity and truth.

When they asked Peter (standing with the eleven other apostles) what must they do to be saved, Peter answered, "Repent and be baptized every one of you in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ for the remission of sins and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost." (Acts 2:37-42)

And then, stand fast in the liberty that is in Jesus. Read His Word. Step into the offering plate and offer yourself to the King of kings and Lord of lords. Bring yourself to His cross and cling to the God who not only made you but loved you enough to die for you too.

With arms wide open God will pardon you ...

God Has Not Given Us the Spirit of Fear, But of Power, and Love and a Sound Mind - Part 1183

"Be not thou therefore ashamed of the testimony of our Lord, nor of me His prisoner, but be thou partaker of the afflictions of the gospel according to the power of God -- 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 -- but is now made manifest by the appearing of our Saviour Jesus Christ, who hath abolished death, and hath brought life and immortality to light through the gospel." (II Timothy 1:7-10)

Simon Peter, a servant and an apostle of Jesus Christ writes to them that have obtained like precious faith with us through the righteousness of God and our Saviour Jesus Christ, saying, "This second epistle, beloved, I now write unto you; in [both] which I stir up your pure minds by way of remembrance; that ye may be mindful of the words which were spoken before by the holy prophets, and of the commandment of us the apostles of the Lord and Saviour.

Knowing this first, that there shall come in the last days scoffers, walking after their own lusts, and saying, "Where is the promise of His coming? For since the fathers fell asleep, all things continue as they were from the beginning of the creation." (II Peter 3:4-5)

"For this they willingly are ignorant of -- that by the Word of God the heavens were of old, and the earth standing out of the water and in the water, whereby the world that then was, being overflowed with water, perished: but the heavens and the earth, which are now, by the same Word are kept in store, reserved unto fire against the day of judgment and perdition of ungodly men." (II Peter 3:5-7)

What Peter is saying here is that the Lord Jesus is not slack concerning His promise. He will return to gather His church -- the body of Christ -- His bride, when that one last soul finds the peace and joy that comes from personally knowing the King of kings and Lord of lords. When that one last person has removed from his being all religious garments and instead become clothed in His righteousness -- the righteousness that only comes from Jesus.

"But, beloved, be not ignorant of this one thing, that one day is with the Lord as a thousand years, and a thousand years as one day. The Lord is not slack concerning His promise, as some men count slackness; but is long suffering to us-ward, not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance. But the day of the Lord will come as a thief in the night; in the which the heavens shall pass away with a great noise, and the elements shall melt with fervent heat, the earth also and the works that are therein shall be burned up." (II Peter 3:8-10)

"For yourselves know perfectly that the day of the Lord so cometh as a thief in the night, for when they shall say, "Peace and safety, then sudden destruction shall cometh upon them, as travail upon a woman with child, and they shall not escape." (I Thessalonians 5:2-3)

But we brethren are not in darkness, that the day of the Lord should overtake you as a thief. Ye are all the children of light and the children of the day ... therefore, let us not sleep, as do others, but let us watch and be sober.

"But let us, who are of the day, be sober, putting on the breastplate of faith and love, for an helmet, the hope of salvation, for God hath not appointed us to wrath but to obtain salvation by our Lord Jesus Christ, who died for us that, whether we wake or sleep, we should live together with Him." (I Thessalonians 5:1-10)

"Seeing then that all these things shall be dissolved, what manner of persons ought ye to be in all holy conversation and godliness, Looking for and hasting unto the coming of the day of God ... Nevertheless we, according to His promise, look for new heavens and a new earth, wherein dwells righteousness. Wherefore, beloved, seeing that ye look for such things, be diligent that ye may be found of Him in peace, without spot, and blameless.

And account that the long suffering of our Lord is salvation; even as our beloved brother Paul also according to the wisdom given unto him hath written unto you;

As also in all [his] epistles, speaking in them of these things; in which are some things hard to be understood, which they that are unlearned and unstable wrest, as they do also the other scriptures, unto their own destruction.

Ye therefore, beloved, seeing ye know these things before, beware lest ye also, being led away with the error of the wicked, fall from your own steadfastness. But grow in grace, and in the knowledge of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. To Him be glory both now and for ever. Amen." (II Peter 3:11-18)

If you haven't already, repent by asking Jesus for His forgiveness. Ask Him to become Lord in your life. Be water baptized / buried in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost. (Acts 2:37-42)

Study His Word, particularly the new testament which He purchased with His own holy blood. And account that the long-suffering of our Lord included your salvation because He -- even before the world was formed desired that you would enter His fold. In so doing, may your joy be full.

Stand in the offering plate.

And Account the Long Suffering of Our Lord Is Salvation - Part 1182

Quite by accident, I stumbled upon a doctrinal statement that suggested the Holy Ghost (or in this particular denomination's terminology the Holy Spirit) is the third person of the trinity (or a tri-une God, or God in three persons). My concern is that nowhere in the scriptures is there any suggestion that the Holy Spirit is a "person." Indeed, the word "Spirit" in Holy Spirit in and of itself suggests that the Holy Spirit is in fact "spirit" and not another "person".

To this end, the example of Jesus being tempted in the wilderness may offer further clarity. Luke 4:1 states: "And Jesus being full of the Holy Ghost returned from Jordan, and was led by the Spirit into the wilderness." In this scripture, Jesus is not being led by "another person" but the Spirit -- the Holy Ghost -- which we know from scriptural accounts had overshadowed Mary in order that she would bring forth a son.

"And they shall call His name Jesus." (Matthew 1:21-23)

Jesus confirmed this in the temple when He declared: "The Spirit of the Lord is upon Me because He hath anointed Me to preach the gospel to the poor; He hath sent Me to heal the broken-hearted, to preach deliverance to the captives, and recovering of sight to the blind, to set at liberty them that are bruised, to preach the acceptable year of the Lord." (Luke 4:18-19; Isaiah 49:8-9; Isaiah 61:1-2; Daniel 9:24)

Not another person upon Jesus, or another person standing beside Jesus, but the one and only Spirit of the Lord who breathed into man in the beginning and was now clothed in a sin-prone flesh so that He could bring us salvation.

God manifest in the flesh. (I Timothy 3:16)

"In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God and the Word was God ... and the Word was made flesh." (John 1:1-18)

"To with God was in Christ, reconciling the world unto Himself, not imputing their trespasses unto them, and hath committed unto us the Word of reconciliation." (II Corinthians 5:19)

"For it pleased the Father that in Him [Jesus] all the fullness dwell, and having made peace through the blood of His cross, by Him to reconcile all things unto Himself, by Him." (Colossians 1:19-20)

The same Spirit or Holy Ghost that was upon Simeon, a just and devout man from Jerusalem -- who revealed earlier to Simeon that he should not see death before he had seen the Lord's Christ.

The same Spirit or Holy Ghost that Jesus in sharing with Nicodemus about being born again when one is old said, "Verily, verily, I say unto thee -- except a man be born of water AND the Spirit, he cannot enter into the Kingdom of God. That which is born of the flesh is flesh and that which is born of the Spirit is spirit. Marvel not that I said unto thee, "Ye must be born again. The wind bloweth where it listeth, and thou hearest the sound thereof, but canst not tell whence it cometh and whither it goeth. So is everyone born of the Spirit." (John 3:4-8)

This is why Jesus said, "I and My Father are one." (John 10:30; John 14:26; John 15:26) This is why after Jesus was taken up, Jesus through the Holy Ghost had given commandments unto the apostles whom He had chosen. (Acts 1:2)

Again, not another "person" but the same Spirit which leads and guides us into all truth and knowledge. His Spirit. The Holy Ghost. His name is Jesus!

"One body, and One Spirit -- even as ye are called in one hope of your calling. One Lord, One Faith, One Baptism. One God and Father of all, who is above all, and through all, and in you all." (Ephesians 4:4-6)

"He was in the world and the world was made by Him and the world knew Him not. He came unto His own and His own received Him not. But as many as received Him, to them gave He power to become the sons of God, to them that believe on His name. (John 1:10-14)

This is why no man has seen God at any time, the only begotten Son which is in the bosom of the Father, He hath declared. (John 1:18)

And if this is not sufficient scriptural evidence to clarify that the Holy Spirit is not a person, then ask yourself this question. When you asked Jesus into your heart to become Lord of your life, did you receive His Spirit or another person?

"No man hath seen God at any time. If we love one another, God dwelleth in us, and His love is perfected in us. Hereby know we that we dwell in Him and He in us because He hath given us of His Spirit." (I John 4:12-13)

The same Spirit to which Jesus said, "At that day, ye shall know that I am in My Father, and ye in Me, and I in you." (John 14:20)

No greater love hath no man than the same God who created us in the beginning loved us enough to shed His precious holy blood on a cross for you and I. Abide in Jesus today. Study His Word for your edification and understanding.

Stand in the offering plate.

Drink From the Unquenchable Waters - Part 1181

"And the angel of the LORD called unto him out of heaven, and said, Abraham, "Abraham" and he said, "Here am I." And He said, "Lay not thine hand upon the lad, neither do thou any thing unto him: for now I know that thou fear God, seeing thou hast not withheld thy son, thine only [son] from me." And Abraham lifted up his eyes, and looked, and behold behind [him] a ram caught in a thicket by his horns: and Abraham went and took the ram, and offered him up for a burnt offering in the stead of his son. And Abraham called the name of that place Jehovahjireh: as it is said [to] this day, "In the mount of the LORD it shall be seen."

And the angel of the LORD called unto Abraham out of heaven the second time, and said, "By Myself have I sworn," saith the LORD, "for because thou hast done this thing, and hast not withheld thy son, thine only son: that in blessing I will bless thee, and in multiplying I will multiply thy seed as the stars of the heaven, and as the sand which [is] upon the sea shore, and thy seed shall possess the gate of His enemies; And in thy seed shall all the nations of the earth be blessed; because thou hast obeyed my voice." (Genesis 22:11-18)
What does the scripture state? In that SEED shall all the nations of the earth be blessed. The question is whether or not you have you received the Holy Spirit of JESUS -- the Comforter -- the mighty Counsellor -- the Holy Ghost since you believed? (Acts 2:37-42)

Indeed, God said He would pour out His Spirit upon all flesh in the latter days, and they would dream dreams, prophesy, and see visions. For those who are new to the faith, let me tell you that JESUS is the well of living water. Only JESUS is the source. Jesus told them that he who drinks of the water JESUS gives shall never thirst spiritually. Why? Because the Holy Spirit blood flowed in the veins of the man JESUS the Christ. Yes, the life of God's humanity is in the blood.

It was the Lord God Almighty who sacrificed His own body on a Cross at Calvary, purchasing for man the right to INHERIT REDEMPTION. It was because of His sacrificial offering that any and all living persons can now through faith in JESUS' sacrificial death receive freely the gift of the Holy Ghost that was in the man -- JESUS the Christ. This inherited redemption is available to all who accept JESUS as their One and Only Saviour.

Peter, standing with the eleven apostles on the day of Pentecost was specific in his instructions. He did not mince words. In fact, when the apostles were asked what they must do to be saved, Peter told them. He said, "Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ for the remission of sins and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost. (Acts 2:37-42)

God was in Christ reconciling the World to Himself. God manifest in the flesh. (I Timothy 3:16) God's spiritual humanity, love, mercy, compassion and truth were embodied in the man JESUS the Christ, who was (as the scripture declares) God manifest in the flesh. It was in that body that all the fullness of the Godhead dwelt bodily. Jesus was God with us as a Son. (Matthew 1:21-23) Indeed, we are fallen images of that pure humanity.

JESUS was that pure humanity who saw our plight and our hopelessness and because God is Love, God made a way whereby man could be redeemed. Saved. In order to do this, man’s redemption required the death of a sinless man. (It must be a man for it was by one man’s disobedience that sin entered into man) Therefore, to meet the demands of justice it necessitated another’s death. Look back through the old covenant, for example, and see how many sacrifices were carried out endeavouring to remove the guilt of sin from each and every one. Unfortunately, all such endeavours were fruitless.

Thus, God put Himself in our place fulfilling all the demands of sin by the sacrifice of His own prone to sin and yet sinless body. God’s love and mercy redemptive mission was now accomplished by God Himself at no cost whatsoever to man. This kind of love and mercy is beyond our capacity to pen. Beyond our capacity to understand. Beyond our capacity to express because this kind of love - simply put - emanates from God.

Yes, God is love!

JESUS, being the Son of the Holy Ghost INHERITS all things for He has said that all that My Father has is Mine, and all that is Mine is yours.

The last LIVING WILL or TESTAMENT of JESUS prior to His Crucifixion. How do we know this? Because GOD covenanted with Himself. God did not covenant with either you or I. God covenanted with Himself as a Son and that Covenant is an everlasting Covenant, independent of us.

For salvation is of the LORD. Freely given. He paid the price in full -- once and for all -- for each and every one of us. God paid the price with the blood He shed on the cross. He sanctifies us with His body broken for you and I, if only we would reach out and accept His abundant mercies. His Lordship in our life.

More importantly, what we do have is the Last Living Will or Testament of the man JESUS the Christ who bequeathed all of His rightful inheritance to us. His redeemed people which He purchased to Himself with the shedding of His own blood. This is why God offers all forgiveness if we would recognize His substitution death at Calvary.

He who knew no sin became sin for us.
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Now the decision is in your hands. You have reached the crossroads of your walk on earth. It is your decision and your decision alone, God has commanded that all men and women repent. Why? Because redemption has been obtained by God’s Grace and Mercy. You and I now have an opportunity to return to that exact place where Adam made the wrong decision.

Now its your turn. You need to decide whether to continue as you are now in sin, or to call upon the name of the Lord your God -- Jesus the Christ -- thanking Him for His unconditional love toward us. If you decided to accept God’s plan of redemption, enjoy the wonder, love and grace that is Jesus. Enjoy His comfort.

And follow on as the early believers were encouraged to do in Acts chapter 2. That is, repent and be baptized into the name of JESUS the Christ. And then, stand in the offering plate, praising your Lord God and Saviour Jesus the Christ.

He will never fail you. He will never forget you. He will never lead you down the wrong path. But what Jesus can do is give you to drink from the living waters, in which you will never quench again.

Praise the Lord and Master of our souls. Jesus -- the one whom has been declared both Lord and Christ. Worship Him today, and thank Him for His abundance of measure. Blessings!

My People Perish for Lack of Knowledge - Part 1180

"They will not frame their doings to turn unto their God, for the spirit of whoredoms is in the midst of them and they have not known the Lord. They shall go with their flocks and with their herds to seek the Lord, but they shall not find Him. He hath withdrawn Himself from them." (Hosea 5:4-6)

Put another way, Hosea (whose name means salvation) is revealing how far the Lord's chosen people had moved away from seeking the Lord's counsel in their day to day, so that in the end their very deeds prevented them from turning to the Lord their God. (Hosea 5:4)

Herein, the Word of the Lord is speaking specifically to Israel, but I believe the message the Lord is making here through Hosea is equally instructive to our world today. Why? Because in many ways, we too have lost our way. Similar to Hosea's time, the Lord is saying, "My people ask counsel at their stocks, and their staff declares unto them ... for the spirit of whoredoms hath caused [them] to err, and they have gone a whoring from under their God." (Hosea 4:12)

Why is this critical? Because then, like now -- the Lord is observing that we do not even recognize Him for His abundance of blessings. And sadly, we do not know that it is He who gives us the corn, and wine, and oil, and multiplies our silver and gold, which we in turn "prepare for Baal." (Hosea 2:8)

Isaiah, in his vision makes a similar observation. "The ox knows his owner, and the ass his master's crib, [but] Israel doth not know. My people doth not consider. Ah, sinful nation, a people laden with iniquity, a seed of evildoers, children that are corrupters -- they have forsaken the Lord. They have provoked the Holy One of Israel unto anger. They are gone away backward." (Isaiah 1:3-4)

When John the baptist full of the Holy Ghost from birth, went crying in the wilderness -- preaching repentance and baptizing with water -- saying, "Repent ye for the kingdom of heaven is at hand" what did he observe? There were those who willingly obeyed the Word and were baptized, cleansing their outer selves according to the customs of the time.

But there was also another group -- the Pharisees and Sadducees. To them 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 within yourselves -- "we have Abraham to [our] father." For I say unto you, that God is able of these stones to raise up children unto Abraham. And now also the ax 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."(Matthew 3:1-10)

In this context, how often the Lord has cried out to us -- His creation, His chosen people -- to return to Him? Throughout the old covenant, and into the new testament, our Lord God -- who willingly becomes our Saviour ushering in this current dispensation of grace -- is calling us to Him. Inviting us to come to the feast that He is preparing for His church. His bride.

Yes, He is calling us to worship and praise Him, and to seek His counsel and wisdom in our day to day. In fact, He just isn't some Spirit out there in the universe somewhere. No, this same God who created the world in the beginning, and knew us as we were formed in our mother's womb, loved us enough to take on a sin-prone flesh and shed His holy blood on a cross so that our sins could be forgiven.

"Though our sins be crimson, they will be as white as snow." (Isaiah 1:18)

As a consequence of Jesus costly sacrifice on the cross, the Word of the Lord has been written for our benefit, so that we do have a choice. That is, we do not have to perish for lack of knowledge. Our world does not need to spiral further into darkness as it is now. Indeed, the Bible from beginning to end tells us that Jesus the Christ -- the Word of God clothed in human flesh -- is the final authority in all matters of doctrine and practice.

"For this cause also thank we God without ceasing because when ye received the Word of God which ye have heard of us, ye received it not as the word of men, but as it is in truth -- the Word of God, which effectually works also in you that believe." (I Thessalonians 2:13)

Who was the Word? JESUS.

"In the beginning was the Word and the Word was with God and the Word was God." (John 1:1)

Not "He" as newer revised biblical publications state, but "the SAME" was in the beginning with God.

Indeed, Almighty God manifest in the flesh "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." (Hebrews 1:1-3; I Timothy 3:16; John 1:1-18)

His work of salvation finished on the cross. He paid the price for our sin. JESUS -- whom Peter (standing with the eleven apostles on the day of Pentecost) declared "both Lord and Christ." (Acts 2:1-42)

Jesus -- whom Thomas, after putting his hands into Jesus side rightly recognized Him for who he rightly was -- "My Lord and my God."

So why don't we put our trust in the Lord? Why do we believe that our worldly counsel is more insightful than that of the Lord who knows the very number of hairs on our head? Moreover, why do we strive to be successful in man's worldly constructs rather than embraced by the heavenly? Our Lord God and Saviour who desires to cuddle us, and bless us with His love and peace?

Apostle Paul asked, "Do we begin again to commend ourselves? Or need we, as some [others], epistles of commendation to you, or letters of commendation from you? Ye are our epistle written in our hearts, known and read of all men, for as much as ye are manifestly declared to be the epistle of Christ ministered by us, written not with ink, but with the Spirit of the living God (not in tables of stone, but in fleshy tables of the heart) and such trust have we through Christ to God-ward, not that we are sufficient of ourselves to think any thing as of ourselves; but our sufficiency [is] of God -- who also hath made us able ministers of the new testament; not of the letter, but of the spirit: for the letter kills, but the Spirit gives life." (II Corinthians 3:1-6)

Not that we are sufficient of ourselves to think any thing as of ourselves, but our sufficiency is of God -- who hath made us able ministers of the new testament. The apostles recognize who was the giver of all wisdom and knowledge, and were willing to put everything on the line (including their lives) so that we could have this gospel -- wherein every man, woman and child could be set free to stand fast in His liberty.

In other words, we do not have to perish for lack of knowledge. We do not have to wander in the wilderness looking for that blessed hope. The new testament is the better covenant which was established upon better promises -- of which Jesus is the mediator. (Hebrews 8:6)

"Not according to the covenant that I made with their fathers in the day when I took them by the hand to lead them out of the land of Egypt because they continued not in My covenant." (Hebrews 8:8-12)

In that He saith, a brand new covenant making the first covenant old. "Now that which decays and waxes old is ready to vanish away." (Hebrews 8:13)

This is why Paul wrote: "But if the ministration of death, written and engraven in stones, was glorious, so that the children of Israel could not steadfastly behold the face of Moses for the glory of His countenance; which [glory] was to be done away, how shall not the ministration of the Spirit be rather glorious? For if the ministration of condemnation [be] glory, much more doth the ministration of righteousness exceed in glory.

For even that which was made glorious had no glory in this respect, by reason of the glory that excels. For if that which is done away [was] glorious, much more that which remains [is] glorious. Seeing then that we have such hope, we use great plainness of speech. And not as Moses, [which] put a vail over his face, that the children of Israel could not steadfastly look to the end of that which is abolished -- but their minds were blinded -- for until this day remains the same vail untaken away in the reading of the old testament; which [vail] is done away in Christ." (II Corinthians 3:7-14)

Again, what happens when we continue reading the old testament? "Their minds were blinded for until this day remains the same vail untaken away in the reading of the old testament." (II Corinthians 3:14)

The vail of blindness still clothes us because we have not recognized that the vail was (and is) done away with once and for all in Christ Jesus. Just like them Pharisees and Sadducees who stood on the banks of the shore, doing anything but get into the water under John's baptism of repentance. 

But it doesn't have to be this way. Rather, we have the awesome privilege of stepping into His liberty by repenting and being baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ as Peter instructed on the day of Pentecost, when the first 3,000 were saved in this current dispensation of grace. (Acts 2:37-42)

As did they, so can we be clothed in His righteousness. Therefore, seek His Word and counsel in every thing that you do. Read the new testament that was purchased through His precious holy blood, and don't let a man-made religious culture keep you in the bondage that is inherent in the old covenant. In other words, remove the whoredoms from our life that are only of this world, and offer nothing toward eternal life.

As Paul wrote, "But even unto this day, when Moses is read, the vail is upon their heart. Nevertheless when it shall turn to the Lord, the vail shall be taken away. Now the Lord is that Spirit: and where the Spirit of the Lord [is], there [is] liberty. But we all, with open face beholding as in a glass the glory of the Lord, are changed into the same image from glory to glory, [even] as by the Spirit of the Lord." (II Corinthians 3:15-18)

Turn your heart to Jesus today. Let the scales of blindness fall from your eyes. 

"So Christ was once offered to bear the sins of many, and unto them that look for Him shall He appear the second time without sin unto salvation." (Hebrews 9:28) 

Stand in the offering plate.

Show Thyself a Pattern of Good Works In Doctrine - Part 1179

"In all things shewing thyself a pattern of good works -- in doctrine shewing uncorruptness, gravity, sincerity, sound speech that cannot be condemned; that he that is of the contrary part may be ashamed, having no evil thing to say of you." (Titus 2:7-8) 

How often have you heard this scripture preached, but the message/sermon focused primarily on one's conduct in the world? Highlighting one's transgressions over the teaching of sound doctrine? Or conversely, the message was about how believers should be an example of good works? Showing yourself in all things as a model in all good works, letting your speech be wholesome? If you are like me, far too often. Sadly, there are those who apply a higher standard of living placed on those who believe in Jesus, and been baptized in His name, and unfortunately, this can even be said of some within the church community.

But let's look at this particular scripture again. What does the Word really say here?

"In ALL things showing thyself a pattern of good works -- IN DOCTRINE!" (Titus 2:7)

In doctrine show uncorruptness. In doctrine show gravity. In doctrine show sincerity -- sound speech that cannot be condemned. (Titus 2:7-8)

And what is the doctrine that apostle Paul is referring to here? The apostles doctrine that was established on the day of Pentecost, wherein the first 3.000 believers repented, and were baptized in Jesus name. (Acts 2:1-47)

"And they continued steadfastly in the apostles' doctrine and fellowship, and in breaking of bread, and in prayers." (Acts 2:42)

But let's not stop here. Why is doctrine so important? Because doctrine is the very foundation for our faith in Jesus Christ. The Word that was with God and was God spoken into our hearts so that we might have abundant life in Him. (John 1:1-18) He is the chief cornerstone, the Head of the body of Christ. The Lord Jesus 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 honour and power everlasting." (I Timothy 6:13-16)

"Which hope we have as an anchor of the soul, both sure and steadfast, and which enters into that within the veil, whither the forerunner is for us entered in -- Jesus -- made an high priest for ever after the order of Melchisedec" (Hebrews 6:19-20)

"All scripture [is] given by inspiration of God, and [is] profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness." (II Timothy 3:16)

And also as apostle Paul points out, so that "he that is of the contrary part may be ashamed, having no evil thing to say of you." (Titus 2:8)

Note that this latter scripture is not referring to how the worldly perceive the disciples of Jesus but rather how others (who profess to be born again) view these same Christians within the body of Christ. In Timothy, apostle Paul refers to this mindset as "ever learning and never able to come to the knowledge of the truth." (II Timothy 3:7) This is why we are commanded to "preach the Word, being instant in season, out of season, reproving, rebuking, exhorting with all long suffering and doctrine. For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine ..." (II Timothy 4:1-3)  But I digress.

Let's return to Paul's epistle to Titus and look at what is being said here -- in context. Paul, a servant of God and an apostle of Jesus Christ, according to the faith 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 is writing this epistle to Titus. (Titus 1:1-3)

Titus had been left in Crete, setting in order the things that are wanting, and ordaining elders in every city. Appointing those who "hold fast the faithful Word as he hath been taught, that he may be able by sound doctrine both to exhort and to convince the gainsayers -- for there are many unruly and vain talkers, and deceivers, specially they of the circumcision -- whose mouths must be stopped, who subvert whole houses, teaching things which they ought not, for filthy lucre's sake." (Titus 1:5-11)

Not given to Jewish fables and commandments of men that turn from the truth., or those who profess they know God but in works deny Him, being abominable and disobedient, and unto every good work reprobate. (Titus 1:12-16)

Herein, Paul is saying "But speak thou the things which become sound doctrine." (Titus 2:1)

Again, speak thou the things which become SOUND DOCTRINE. Preaching the Word as it is written, and not changing the scriptures to suit man's inward desires. This is the context that is lacking within today's modern day religious culture, where the focus is on the believing community to do more (and dare I say more and more) good works and to be kind rather than adhere to (and teach) only sound doctrine. Why did Paul believe this message to be so critical?

Because there is absolutely nothing that we could do in and of ourselves to earn salvation. Neither is our salvation about our good works. Rather, salvation is the gift of God freely given when we accept Jesus as both Lord and Christ.

"For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God. Being justified freely by His grace through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus, whom God hath set forth to be a propitiation through faith in His blood, to declare His righteousness for the remission of sins that are past, through the forbearance of God, to declare, I say, at this time His righteousness -- that He might be just, and the justifier of him which believes in Jesus." (Romans 3:23-26)

Indeed, the same Lord who created us in the beginning paid the price with His own holy blood. And, likewise, He discerns the intentions of our heart. This is why Paul is encouraging us as believers to uphold the faith which was purchased by His blood, and not to let the religious dogma and traditions of men replace the grace of God with good works.

"But speak thou the things which become sound doctrine" (Titus 2:1)

Why? So "that the aged men [will] be sober, grave, temperate, sound in faith in charity, in patience. [So that] the aged women likewise that [they be] in behaviour as becometh holiness, not false accusers, not given to much wine, teachers of good things, that they may teach the young women to be sober, to love their husbands, to love their children. To be discreet, chaste, keepers at home, good, obedient to their own husbands that the Word of God be not blasphemed. [So that] young men likewise exhort to be sober minded." (Titus 2:2-6)

And most of all, so that we -- "IN ALL THINGS show a pattern of good works IN DOCTRINE showing uncorruptness, gravity, sincerity, sound speech that cannot be condemned, that he that is of the contrary part may be ashamed, having no evil thing to say of you." (Titus 2:7-8)

In other words, we need to recognize that the flow through mindset doesn't start and end with us and then somehow extend to our Lord God and Saviour. No! The same Lord God and Saviour who formed us and knew us from our mother's womb sees our heart. And, as a consequence of His shedding of blood, we can find eternal life when we give our life and desires over to Jesus -- the Author and Finisher of our faith. Therein, will He place His purposes in our heart, so that no man who resists the truth will despise thee. (Titus 2:15; II Timothy 3:8) That they shall proceed no further in speaking against you for their folly shall be manifest unto all.

As apostle Paul wrote, "But thou hast fully known my doctrine, manner of life, purpose, faith, long suffering, patience ... continue thou in the things which thou hast learned and hast been assured of, knowing of whom that hast learned [them]." (II Timothy 2:9-14)

"Not purloining, but showing all good  fidelity that they may adorn the doctrine of God our Saviour in all things. For the grace of God that brings salvation hath appeared to all men, teaching us that denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, we should live soberly, righteously, and godly in this present world, looking for that blessed hope, and the glorious appearing of the Great God and our Saviour Jesus Christ -- who gave Himself for us that He might redeem us from all iniquity, and purify unto Himself a peculiar people, zealous of good works" as a consequence of the Holy Ghost dwelling within us. (Titus 2:10-14)

The holy Spirit of God leading and directing us in all things according to sound doctrine and His Word. If you do not yet know Jesus, get to know His abundance of love for you. Repent of your sin, asking for His forgiveness, and be water baptized in the name of Jesus by immersion. (Acts 2:37-38) When you are buried with Christ, we are buried with Him by baptism into death, that like as Christ was raised up from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life" taking on His name. (Romans 6:3-4)

And ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost! (Acts 2:38) As Paul declared, "these things command and teach. Let no man despise thy youth, but be thou and example of the believers, in Word, in conversation, in charity, in spirit, in faith, in purity, till I come give attendance to reading, to exhortation, to doctrine." (I Timothy 3:9).

"Sound speech that cannot be condemned." (Titus 2:8)

"For I am the least of the apostles, that man not meet to be called an apostle because I persecuted the Church of God, but by the Grace of God I am what I am, and His grace which was bestowed upon me was not in vain; but I laboured more abundantly than they all, yet not I but the grace of God which was with me." (I Corinthians 15:1-9)

Read His Word today. Let His holy Spirit lead and guide you into the only wisdom and knowledge that will matter at the end of our days. This same Jesus who said, "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 6:51) 

Stand in the offering plate.

*** To understand just how much this teaching has changed from the original scriptural text, particularly in the most recent re-written publications of the Bible, please look at the following comparisons that emphasize "good works" and your abilities - it's all about you mindset -- over "sound doctrine". Even so, we now know the truth that has set us free -- that is, salvation is the gift of God and not of our own doing. |Not of ourselves should any man boast. Jesus paid the price for our sins once and for all on the cross, and because of His love for you and I, we can become a flow-through for Him, when we take on His name in water baptism.

The King James version states, "In all things shewing thyself a pattern of good works in doctrine [shewing] uncorruptness, gravity, sincerity."  Here is what these comparison versions say about Titus 2:7 -- (as presented in biblehub.com)

My comment (as similarly stated by the apostles) -- "Lord, save us from this untoward generation." (Acts 2:40)

New International Version: "In everything set them an example by doing what is good. In your teaching show integrity, seriousness."

New Living Translation: "And you yourself must be an example to them by doing good works of every kind. Let everything you do reflect the integrity and seriousness of your teaching."

English Standard Version: "Show yourself in all respects to be a model of good works, and in your teaching show integrity, dignity,"

Holman Christian Standard Bible: "in everything. Make yourself an example of good works with integrity and dignity in your teaching."

International Standard Version: "Always set an example for others by doing good actions. Teach with integrity and dignity."

NET Bible: "showing yourself to be an example of good works in every way. In your teaching show integrity, dignity,"

Aramaic Bible in Plain English: "But show yourself in all things as a model in all good works, and in your teaching let your speech be wholesome."

GOD'S WORD® Translation: "Always set an example by doing good things. When you teach, be an example of moral purity and dignity."

Darby Bible Translation: "in all things affording thyself as a pattern of good works; in teaching uncorruptedness, gravity,"

Weymouth New Testament: "and above all make your own life a pattern of right conduct, having in your teaching no taint of insincerity, but a serious tone,"

World English Bible" "in all things showing yourself an example of good works; in your teaching showing integrity, seriousness, incorruptibility."

Young's Literal Translation: "concerning all things thyself showing a pattern of good works; in the teaching uncorruptedness, gravity, incorruptibility."

For This Cause Came I Unto This Hour; Father, Glorify Thy Name - Part 1178

Jesus often spoke in parables, or as in the example cited below, in proverbs. He justified His speech by saying that certain messages were specifically intended for those who love Him -- His disciples -- so that the disciples (and by extension we) could be like Jesus, knowing our heavenly Father's business. (Luke 2:49; John 15:15-17)

Beginning in the thirteenth chapter of John, we see that Jesus began teaching His disciples specifically and with intention. We know this because the disciple that betrayed Jesus for 30 pieces of silver (named Judas Iscariot) had already left. Note that at the time, the disciples thought the reason Judas left was because Jesus wanted Judas to buy the things that were needed for the feast (since Judas was responsible for the money), or conversely, that Judas had left to give money to the poor. They did not understand what Jesus said when He spoke to Judas Iscariot (the son of Simon), saying, "That thou doest, do quickly." (John 13:21-30)

(As an aside, we find ourselves often in the same position. We read a particular passage of scripture without any real understanding, and then one day, the blinders come off and the kingdom of God and His righteousness is revealed).

But after Judas left, Jesus began to share the essence of the kingdom of God with His disciples. Why now? The hour had come that the Son of man should be glorified. (John 12:23) Jesus had been telling them that the hour was coming when they would see Him no more. "Now is the Son of man glorified, and God be glorified in Him. If God be glorified in Him, God shall also glorify Him in Himself and straightway glorify Him." (John 13:31-32)

Why is this important? So that God in ALL things may be glorified THROUGH Jesus Christ, to whom be praise and dominion for ever and ever. Amen." (I Peter 4:11)

The reason for God being manifest in flesh was about to be revealed. (I Timothy 3:16; Isaiah 9:6) God's ultimate plan of redemption from before the worlds were framed was on the horizon. But there is much more to understand here, and the disciples (like us too when we begin our faith journey) needed further insight.

Herein, Jesus tells His disciples, calling them "little children" -- that in a short time Jesus will no longer be with His disciples, and, whither He goes, these cannot come.  Jesus has not yet been captured, although we are aware from other gospels that Judas has gone to strike a deal with the powers that be.

Jesus begins with a new commandment. "That ye love one another, as I have loved you, that ye also love one another." (John 13:34) Why? Because if we love one another, then all shall know that ye/we are Jesus disciples. (John 13:15)

But Simon Peter was still stuck on where Jesus was going, asking the Lord specifically where He goest? He is not alone in his questions. Within a short span of time, the conversation has turned to Thomas who asks, "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 comes unto the Father but by Me. If ye had known Me, ye should have known My Father also, and from henceforth ye know Him AND HAVE SEEN HIM." (John 14:6-7)

As you can see, this is not the teaching associated with the modern day religious culture that promotes God as three persons, a tri-une God or trinity. What Jesus is telling His disciples is that He is the Father, and if you had known Jesus, ye should have known the Father also "and from henceforth ye know Him and have seen Him. (John 14:6-7) Not another as religion presents, but one and the same God who loved us enough to take on a sin-prone flesh (even though He Himself was without sin) and dwell among us. (John 1:1-18)

Yes, Jesus teaching is not one and the same with the religious dogma that has (and sadly still is) presented as truth. Indeed, Jesus is saying something totally different here. As a consequence, you have a decision to make. Are you going to believe what man-made religion has told you -- the same religion that is supposed to be based on Jesus and the biblical scriptures -- or, rather believe the words of Jesus -- the King of kings and Lord of lords who is the source of ALL wisdom and knowledge? 

Still, the disciples struggled with this understanding, as evidenced by Philip's question. He said unto Jesus -- "Lord, show us the Father, and it suffices us." What did Jesus say unto him? "Have I been so long time with you and yet, hast thou not known Me, Philip? He that hath seen Me hath seen the Father, and how sayest thou [then] "Shew us the Father." Believest thou not that I am in the Father, and the Father in Me? The words that I speak unto you I speak not of Myself, but the Father that dwelleth in Me, He doeth the works." (John 14:8-10)

Jesus said, "Believe Me that I [am] in the Father, and the Father in Me, or else believe Me for the very works sake." (John 14:11)

This is not the first time the disciples had heard Jesus say these things. Remember, in the Mount of Olives, Jesus had said, "I am the Light of the world. He that follows Me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the Light of life?" (John 8:12) What happened?  Herein, the Pharisees quickly accused Jesus of bearing a record that was not true. At least not true in their minds. Specifically, the Pharisees in their accusation said, "Thou bearest record of Thyself; Thy record is not true." (John 8:13)

Stop! Is this not the reaction of many religious today when confronted with the same question, "Who is Jesus?" Like the Pharisees when John baptized unto repentance, there will be accusations and musing from the banks of the shore but never obeying, and certainly never getting in the water. Mocking, they will ask, "How can Jesus be the Light of life?" Or, they will quickly close their Bible when shown from the scriptures that Jesus is both Lord and Christ, making accusations that the record that Jesus professed is a twist of scriptures.

On rare occasions, someone might actually say that Jesus is God manifest in the flesh. (I Timothy 3:16) That God was in the world, and the world was made by Him, but the world knew Him not. (John 1:1-18) That Jesus and the Father are one. (John 10:30-33)

"For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon His shoulder: and His name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, The Mighty God, The Everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace. Of the increase of His government and peace there shall be no end, upon the throne of David, and upon his kingdom, to order it, and to establish it with judgment and with justice from henceforth even for ever. The zeal of the Lord of hosts will perform this." (Isaiah 9:6-7)
Earlier, Jesus had shared with Martha saying, "I am the Resurrection and the Life; he that believes in Me, though he were dead, yet shall he live." (John 11:25)

But I digress. What did Jesus say to the Pharisees?

"Though I bear record of Myself, [yet] My record is true, for I know whence I came, and whither I go, but ye cannot tell whence I come, and whither I go. Ye judge after the flesh. I judge no man. And yet if I judge, My judgement is true, for I am not alone, but I and the Father that sent Me. It is also written in your Law, that the testimony of two men is true. I am one that bear witness of Myself, and the Father that sent Me beareth witness of Me." (John 8:13-18)

Then said they unto Him, "Where is Thy Father?" Jesus answered, "Ye neither know Me, nor My Father. If ye had known Me, ye should have known My Father also." (John 8:19) 

Is this not the same message that Jesus gave to Thomas, and to Philip, and to all the disciples? Jesus repeatedly told the disciples, "If ye had known Me, ye should have known My Father also, and from henceforth ye know Him and have seen Him." (John 14:7)

"For in Him dwells ALL the fullness of the Godhead bodily." (Colossians 2:9)

Jesus did not mince words. In fact, throughout the new testament, the apostles point to Jesus as the one and only Saviour. Jesus as the Bread of Life. Jesus as the Light of the World. Jesus as the I AM of the old covenant. Jesus as the Author and Finisher of our faith. Jesus -- Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the end, the first and the last. Jesus - King of kings and Lord of lords. Indeed, to the apostles, there was only one God and His name is Jesus.

JESUS --the name given to us in this dispensation of grace. JESUS - the name of the Father, Son and Holy Ghost. (Acts 2:37-42)

But then comes the famous question from the religious community because they do not want to believe that this same Almighty God that created man in the beginning loved them enough to shed His precious holy blood on a cross for them. The question? "Was Jesus talking to Himself?" After all, while Jesus was in the world, He referred to His Father continually. 

For an answer, let's look specifically toward the end of Jesus teachings to the disciples -- John 16 -- although there are numerous other scriptural examples that could have been cited here as well. Note too that Jesus is still continuing the original conversation with His eleven disciples that began in the thirteenth chapter of the book of John, wherein He has stated both to Thomas and Philip, "If ye have seen Me, ye have seen the Father." 

Jesus said, "And IN THAT DAY, YE SHALL ASK ME NOTHING. Verily, verily, I say unto you, "Whatsoever ye shall ask the Father in My name, He will give it you. Hitherto have ye asked nothing in My name. Ask and ye shall receive, that your joy may be full." (John 16:23-24)

Until this time -- as Jesus points out -- "These things have I spoken unto you in proverbs: but the time comes, when I shall no more speak unto you in proverbs, but I shall shew you plainly of the Father." (John 16:25)

The time "will come" when Jesus shall show us plainly of the Father. This was said before Jesus death on the cross, but now "after Jesus' resurrection, the time has come" when He can speak freely of His abundance of love for His creation, and His beloved bride -- the body of Christ which He redeemed and sanctified through His body broken on the cross for you and I. So that we -- you and I will know the greatest love story ever given to mankind.

And He has done so through His Word.

Then said Jesus, "AT THAT DAY, YE SHALL ASK IN MY NAME AND I SAY NOT UNTO YOU THAT I WILL PRAY THE FATHER FOR YOU." Why? "For the Father Himself loves you because ye have loved Me, and have believed that I came out from God. I came forth from the Father, and am come into the world: again, I leave the world, and go to the Father." (John 16:26-28)

Read Jesus' words to us again. "AT THAT DAY, YE SHALL ASK IN MY NAME AND I SAY NOT UNTO YOU THAT I WILL PRAY THE FATHER FOR YOU FOR THE FATHER HIMSELF LOVES YOU BECAUSE YOU HAVE LOVED ME AND HAVE BELIEVED THAT I CAME OUT FROM GOD."

In that day -- now --- Jesus no longer has to pray the Father because HE IS THE FATHER. He is the Word that was in the beginning with God and WAS GOD -- the same God who came unto His own and His own received Him not. (John 1:10-11)  Yes, Jesus the "only begotten of the Father" came forth from the Father and came into the world, and when He left the world He returned to the Father. This is why the Holy Ghost could not be given until after Jesus was taken up. (John 14:26)

Then, AFTER was taken up, Jesus THROUGH the Holy Ghost gave commandments to His apostles. (Acts 1:2)

Not a third person in a man-made false trinity that does anything but accept the Word of God as stated, but God Himself -- our heavenly Father -- the SAME Holy Ghost that overshadowed Mary so that she could bring forth a son that would save His people from their sin, now desires to live in our hearts today.

"And they shall call His name JESUS." (Matthew 1:21-23)

How many times did Jesus tell those around Him -- "If God were your Father, ye would love Me, for I proceeded forth and came from God; neither came I of myself, but He sent Me." (John 8:42)
"Nevertheless I tell you the truth; It is expedient for you that I go away, for if I go not away, the Comforter will not come unto you; but if I depart, I will send Him unto you." (John 16:7)

"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)

"But when the Comforter is come, whom I will send unto you from the Father, [even] the Spirit of Truth, which proceeds from the Father, He shall testify of Me." (John 15:26)

"And I will pray the Father, and He shall give you another Comforter, that HE MAY ABIDE WITH YOU FOR EVER AND EVER -- [Even] the Spirit of Truth, whom the world cannot receive because it sees Him not, neither knows Him: but ye know Him; for He dwells with you, and shall be in you." (John 14:1-17) 

"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. He shall glorify Me, for He shall receive of Mine, and shall shew [it] unto you -- ALL THINGS THAT THE FATHER HATH ARE MINE. Therefore said I, that He shall take of Mine, and shall shew [it] unto you." (John 16:13-15)

"This is He that came by water and blood, [even] Jesus Christ; not by water only, but by water and blood. And it is the Spirit that bears witness, because the Spirit is Truth. For there are three that bear record in heaven, the Father, the Word, and the Holy Ghost AND THESE THREE ARE ONE. And there are three that bear witness in earth, the Spirit, and the water, and the blood and these three agree in one. If we receive the witness of men, the witness of God is greater: for this is the witness of God which he hath testified of his Son. He that believes on the Son of God hath the witness in himself. He that believes not God hath made him a liar, because he believes not the record that God gave of His Son." (I John 5:6-10)

Again, as Jesus stated time after time, "If God were your Father, ye would love Me, for I proceeded forth and came from God. Neither came I of myself, but He sent Me." (John 8:42)

Therefore, "the anointing which ye have received of Him abides in you, and ye 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 hath taught you, ye shall abide in Him." (I John 2:27)

This is why we "have an unction from the Holy One, and ye know all things." (I John 2:20)

Just like the disciples, who when Jesus breathed on them received the Holy Ghost, so can we know the truth that will set us free -- when we believe the scripture, and the Word which Jesus has said.

"When therefore He was risen from the dead, His disciples remembered that He had said this unto them, and they believed the scripture, and the Word which Jesus had said." (John 2:22)

Don't be like the Pharisees and scribes who quickly refused to believe that Jesus record was true. Instead, "study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needs not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the Word of Truth." (II Timothy 2:15)

Be clothed in His garment of righteousness, and know that the anointing which ye have received of Him abides in you.

"One Lord, One faith, One baptism. One Father of all. One God and Father of all, who is above all, and through all, and in you all." (Ephesians 4:5-6)

His name is Jesus.

Stand in the offering plate.

When The Heart Turns to the Lord, The Vail Shall Be Taken Away - Part 1177

For the benefit of those who are new to the faith, let me start by saying the Word of God exists of an old covenant (based primarily on the Law and Ten Commandments) and a new testament which was ushered in through Jesus shedding His precious holy blood on the cross.

Today, we are looking at Paul's writing in the second chapter of II Corinthians. Therein, Paul is sharing that no longer are the commandments of God written in tables of stone, but rather, written not by ink but with the Spirit of the living God in the fleshy tables of the heart. (II Corinthians 2:3)

To emphasize this point, we look at the transition of Apollos. He is described as a certain Jew born at Alexandria, an eloquent man, and mighty in the scriptures. He had come to Ephesus. This man was instructed in the way of the Lord, and being fervent in the spirit, he spake and taught diligently the things of the Lord, knowing at that time, only the baptism of John. (John's baptism was of repentance for the remission of sins, where he was a forerunner to Jesus the Christ). And Apollos began to speak boldly in the synagogue, whom when Aquila and Priscilla had heard, they took him unto them, and expounded unto him the way of God more perfectly.

And when he was disposed to pass into Achaia, the brethren wrote, exhorting the disciples to receive him, who, when he was come helped them much which had believed through grace. For he mightily convinced the Jews, and that publickly, shewing by the scriptures that Jesus was Christ. (Acts 18:24-28)

And it came to pass that while Apollos was at Corinth, Paul having passed through the upper coasts came to Ephesus, and finding certain disciples, he said unto them, "Have ye received the Holy Ghost since ye believed?" And they said unto Paul, "We have not so much as heard whether there be any Holy Ghost." And he said unto them, "Unto what then were ye baptized?" And they said, "Unto John's baptism." (Acts 19:1-3)

The John referred to in this passage was the son of Zacharias, to whom the Word of God came unto him in the wilderness. And he came into all the country about Jordan, preaching the baptism of repentance for the remission of sins -- as it is written in the book of Esaias [Isaiah] the prophet, saying: "The voice of one crying in the wilderness -- Prepare ye the way of the Lord. Make his paths straight. Every valley shall be filled, and every mountain and hill shall be brought low, and the crooked shall be made straight, and the rough ways shall be made smooth, and all flesh shall see the salvation of God." (Luke 3:1-6)

As a consequence, a multitude came forth to be baptized of him. Some mused in their hearts, as to whether John was the Christ or not. John clarified that perspective for the mockers. He said, "I indeed baptize you with water, but one mightier than I comes, the latchet of whose shoes I am not worthy to unloose. He shall baptize you with the Holy Ghost and with fire. Whose fan is in His hand, and He will thoroughly purge His floor, and will gather the wheat into His garner, but the chaff He will burn with fire unquenchable." (Luke 3:16-17; Matthew 3:11-12; John 7:39; John 20:22)

He then told those to bring forth fruits of repentance, and begin not to say within yourselves, "We have Abraham to [our] father, for I say unto you, that God is able of these stones to raise up children unto Abraham." (Luke 3:8)

Returning to Paul and Apollos, Paul said unto him, and several of the disciples with him, "Unto what then were ye baptized?" And they said, "Unto John's baptism." Then said Paul, "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."

When Apollos and those that accompanied him heard this, they were immediately baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus. (Acts 19:3-5)

And when Paul had laid hands upon them, the Holy Ghost came on them and they spake with tongues and prophesied, and all the men were about twelve.

What we are witnessing here is the transitioning from the old covenant to the new testament, which was purchased by the blood of Jesus. When He died, the vail was rent in two from top to bottom. Heaven opened up and peace and goodwill was declared unto all men.

"For the law having a shadow of good things to come, [and] not the very image of the things can never with those sacrifices, which they offered year by year continually make the comers thereunto perfect. For then would they not have ceased to be offered? because that the worshipers once purged should have had no more conscience of sins. But in those [sacrifices there is] a remembrance again [made] of sins every year. For [it is] not possible that the blood of bulls and of goats take away sins." (Hebrews 10:1-4)

Let's read that again. It is not possible that the blood of bulls and of goats takes away sins. Neither is it that sacrifices offered year by year, or confessions made week by week can make the comers thereunto perfect. Why not?

Because "wherefore, when He cometh into the world, He saith, "Sacrifice and offering Thou wouldest not, but a body hast Thou prepared Me. In burnt offerings and sacrifices for sin Thou hast had no pleasure. Then said I, "Lo, I come (in the volume of the book it is written of Me) to do Thy will, O God." (Hebrews 10:5-7)

Above when He said, "Sacrifice and offering and burnt offering and [offering] for sin Thou wouldest not, neither hadst pleasure [therein], which are offered by the law." Then said He, "Lo, I come to do Thy will, O God. He taketh away the first, that He may establish the second -- by the which will we are sanctified through the offering of the body of Jesus Christ once [for all]." (Hebrews 10:8-10)

"But Christ being come an high priest of good things to come, by a greater and more perfect tabernacle, not made with hands, that is to say, not of this building, neither by the blood of goats and calves, but by His own blood He entered in once into the holy place, having obtained eternal redemption for us. For if the blood of bulls and of goats and the ashes of an heifer sprinkling the unclean sanctifieth to the purifying of the flesh, how much more shall the blood of Christ, who through the eternal Spirit offered Himself without spot to God, purge your conscience from dead works to serve the living God?" (Hebrews 9:11-14)

"And for this cause, He is the Mediator of the New Testament, that by means of death, for the redemption of the transgressions [that were] under the first testament -- they which are called might receive the promise of eternal inheritance. For where a testament [is], there must also of necessity be the death of the testator. For a testament [is] of force after men are dead; otherwise, it is of no strength at all while the testator liveth. Whereupon neither the first [testament] was dedicated without blood. For when Moses had spoken every precept to all the people according to the law, he took the blood of calves and of goats, with water, and scarlet wool, and hyssop, and sprinkled both the book, and all the people, saying, "This is the blood of the testament which God hath enjoined unto you." Moreover, he sprinkled with blood both the tabernacle and all the vessels of the ministry, and almost all thing are by the law purged with blood; and without shedding of blood is no remission." (Hebrews 9:15-22)

As a consequence, it was therefore necessary that the patterns of things in the heavens should be purified with these, but the heavenly things themselves with better sacrifices than these -- for Christ is not entered into the holy places made with hands [which are] the figures [or copies] of the true, but into heaven itself, now to appear in the presence of God for us. Nor yet that He should offer Himself often, as the high priest enters into the holy place every year with blood of others, for then must He often have suffered since the foundation of the world -- but now ONCE IN THE END OF THE WORLD HATH HE APPEARED TO PUT AWAY SIN BY THE SACRIFICE OF HIMSELF." (Hebrews 9:23-26)

You see, the law was only a shadow of good things to come. And the law could never -- even with the sacrifices -- make the comers perfect in their salvation. Thus, God Himself provided a way of salvation for you and I. He was made flesh and dwelt among us -- so that we could understand how very much He loves us. (I Timothy 3:16; John 1:1-18; Isaiah 9:6)

So that we can be who God intended us to be from the very beginning. So that we could look to Him -- Jesus, the Author and Finisher of our faith, who for the joy that was set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is now set down a the right hand of God, until His enemies shall be put under His feet. And then we will be given a new name in which to worship the King of kings and Lord of lords. But I digress.

Seeing that we now have such hope, we should rejoice in the epistle of Christ that has been written in our hearts.

Not as Moses, which put a vail over his face that the children of Israel could not steadfastly look to the end of that which is abolished. Not like the Jews whose minds were/are blinded -- that even until this day, remaineth the same vail untaken away in the reading of the old testament, which [vail] is done away in Christ.

"But even unto this day, when Moses is read, the vail is upon their heart. Nevertheless, when it shall turn to the Lord, the vail shall be taken away." (II Corinthians 3:12-16)

What does Paul write next -- to ensure there is no confusion about the Godhead? He writes: "Now the Lord is that Spirit and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is liberty." (Ii Corinthians 3:17)

Peter (standing with the eleven on the day of Pentecost confirms the same). This same Jesus that you/we crucified in our hearts before repenting and coming before Him with a sorrowful heart, He is both Lord and Christ. (Acts 2:35-42)

JESUS -- He is both Lord and Christ. Neither is there salvation in any other, for there is none other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved. (Acts 4:12)

The same Lord God and Saviour Jesus the Christ who invites us to come to His feast -- "If any man thirst, let him come unto Me, and drink. He that believes on Me, as the scripture hath said, out of his belly shall flow rivers of living water. (But this spake He [Jesus] of the Spirit, which they that believe on Him should receive; for the Holy Ghost was not yet [given], because that Jesus was not yet glorified." (John 7:37-39)

But now that Jesus has been glorified, we can have forgiveness of sins available from the one and only Mediator of the new testament. Jesus -- the Alpha and Omega, the first and the last, the beginning and the end. He tore the vail of the old covenant from top to bottom, ushering in this current dispensation of grace.

No longer is there a need for a priest to confess our sins to because Almighty God Himself reached out to us in love, willingly shedding His blood once and for all -- so that we could be washed clean from all of our transgressions. (Isaiah 9:6) Yes, He was manifest in the flesh. (I Timothy 3:16) Yes, He was in the world even though the world knew Him not. (John 1:10) And yes, He even came unto His own. (John 1:11)

But we have been given a second chance.  Reach out to Jesus today. Be baptized in His precious name -- the name of the Lord Jesus Christ. (Acts 2:37-42) Receive His Spirit into your heart whereby He can fill you with His joy and peace that surpasses all human understanding. Desire spiritual gifts.

And "consider Him that endured such contradiction of sinners against Himself, lest ye be wearied and faint in your minds." (Hebrews 12:1-3)

Stand in the offering plate.

His Word Tells Us That The Name of Jesus Is ABOVE Every Other Name - Part 1176

And they were all baptized with the Holy Ghost and with tongues as of fire. This is what the scriptures say. The question is - what happened to the fire? Or better still, who put the fire out? Certainly, the early believers went everywhere preaching JESUS. Are you? Something to consider in the days ahead.

Salvation is obtainable to whosoever calls upon the name of the Lord JESUS! Why? Because the Lord God who created us became as one of us so that we could have salvation. Yes, this is why Christians believe that JESUS is LORD. This same God became human because He loved us. Jesus -- He is both Lord and Christ. (Acts 2:36-42)

But this JESUS is not a number two LORD. Rather, JESUS is the LORD that reigns over all. And thus, there is no salvation in any other name other than the name of JESUS. Yes, the name of JESUS is ABOVE every other name in HEAVEN and on EARTH!

So if you are you looking for someone superior to JESUS, then you need to stop looking. For the ONLY GOD that man will ever see is JESUS. As the scriptures state, JESUS said, "I and My FATHER are ONE." Philip of old was determined to see the Father when Philip said to JESUS, ”Show us the Father and we will be satisfied." JESUS replied to Philip, "Have I been so long time with you Philip and yet you have not known Me? Philip, if you have seen Me, you have seen the Father."

So as Jesus queried -- if I am the Father manifest as a Son, why are you now saying that you are looking to see the Father to be satisfied? JESUS is God manifest in the flesh as a Son. (I Timothy 3:16) God is Spirit but because one cannot see Spirit, there has to be a physical body. Indeed, you also are a spirit being inside a body. God has hemmed your spirit inside a body of bone and sinew. For we are an earthly creation. We all appear as a son or daughter in created form.

Using the same comparison, God Himself veiled Himself in flesh appearing in fashion as a man, even as we are. (John 1:1-18; Isaiah 9:6)

Naturally, you will always remain in a son's or daughter's body. You will father or mother all of your offspring in this same son or daughter body. Now you as a father or mother remain in that same son or daughter body. Similarly, you speak now as a father or a mother capacity, yet you can still speak as a son or daughter. In this capacity, you have not become another person. You are still a spirit being manifest.

Taking this comparison further, let us now have a conversation as we fellowship together. I know you are a son because I am looking at you in a son’s body. I also know that you are a father, yet I am still looking at you in a son’s body. As we converse together in fellowship, we fellowship in spirit. So, I can speak as a son - I can speak as a father - and I can speak as a spirit being. Ask yourself this question then ... am I three persons? Or, am I one person exhibiting the necessary characteristics of a son, father, and friend?

In this same context, the Holy Spirit of God was in the man JESUS the Christ - not as a different person, or two persons, or three persons but rather JESUS as God HIMSELF with us. (Matthew 1:21-23) God as a Son fathered all of His children in a son’s body. Therefore, He that has the Son has life.

The scriptures further states that we - being you and I - must all be born again ... of water and of the Spirit to enter into the Kingdom of God! This is not the old Covenant, or a revival of the old Covenant, for a much greater person than Moses was here. In fact, Moses was part of God's house but at the end of the day, JESUS is the builder of His own house - a house comprised of believers.

The TRUE ISRAEL OF GOD - read ACTS chapter 2:37-42. Follow the instructions given by Peter (standing with the eleven) on the day of Pentecost. Recognize that more than anything, this same Lord God and Saviour Jesus the Christ wants to fill you with His Spirit so that His spiritual gifts and wisdom can flow through us. So that we can be filled to overflowing with His joy and mercy. Like David who said, "My cup runneth over!" (Psalm 23)

And never forget how much our Lord God loved us -- that He would willingly shed His blood on a cross for you and I. His name in this current covenant of grace is Jesus. The greatest name known to mankind. The name that is ABOVE every other name.

Peace to all who are in JESUS. Stand in the offering plate.

If Any Man Thirst, Jesus Said, Let him Come to Me - Part 1175

Jesus said, "I am the Way, the Truth, and the Life. No man comes to the Father BUT BY ME." (John 14:6)

Jesus said unto them, "I am the Bread of Life: he that cometh to Me shall never hunger; and he that believeth on Me shall never thirst." (John 6:35)

But moreover, Jesus clarifies His identity, for He continues by saying, "If ye had known Me, ye should have known My Father also, and from henceforth, ye know Him and have seen Him." (John 14:7)

Even though it seemed that the words Jesus spoke should be sufficient, Philip said unto Him, "Lord, show us the Father and it sufficeth us." Jesus said unto him, "Have I been so long time with you and yet hast thou not known Me, Philip? He that hath seen Me hath seen the Father, and how sayest thoug then, "Shew us the Father." (John 14:6-9)

Then Jesus went on to say, "Believest thou not that I am in the Father, and the Father in Me? The words that I speak unto you I speak not of Myself, but of the Father that dwelleth in Me, He doeth the works. Believe that I am in the Father, and the Father in Me, or else believe Me for the very works sake. Verily, verily, I say unto you -- he that believeth on Me, the works that I do, shall he do also, and greater than these shall he do, because I go unto My Father. 

And whatsoever ye shall ask in My name, that will I do, that the Father may be glorified in the Son. If ye love Me, keep My commandments, and 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 seeth Him not, but ye know Him for He dwelleth with you -- and shall be in you. I will not leave you comfortless. I will come to you!" (John 14:6-18)

Even more so, Jesus promises that in that day when the Holy Ghost comes to dwell within, we shall know that Jesus -- the same great "I am" who revealed Himself in the old covenant -- is in the Father, and us in Him, and He in us. 

"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)

"But when the Comforter is come, whom I will send unto you from the Father, [even] the Spirit of Truth which proceedeth from the Father, He shall testify of Me, and ye also shall bear witness because ye have been with Me from the beginning." (John 15:26)

Indeed, God's Word is the Bread of Life. 

Note that Jesus had to first be taken up so that He (from this point forward) THROUGH the Holy Ghost could command the apostles whom He had chosen ... and that, by so doing, the apostles (and by extension you and I) could receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you. (Acts 1:1-8) 

His Spirit then is the water for the soul of man. The living water that quenches the worst thirst, from the well that never runs dry.

"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)

"He that believeth on Me, as the scripture hath said, out of his belly shall flow rivers of living water." (John 7:38)

And He said unto me, "It is done. I am Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the end. I will give unto him that is athirst of the fountain of the water of life freely." (Revelation 21:6)

"For I will pour water upon him that is thirsty, and floods upon the dry ground: I will pour My spirit upon thy seed, and My blessing upon thine offspring." (Isaiah 44:3)

"In the last day, that great [day] of the feast, Jesus stood and cried, saying, "If any man thirst, let him come unto Me, and drink." (John 7:37)

"And He shewed me a pure river of water of life, clear as crystal, proceeding out of the throne of God and of the Lamb." (Revelation 22:1)

Yes, Jesus is the Word made flesh. (John 1:1-18) The same Word that was in the beginning with God and was God. He came unto His own and His own received Him not. He was in the world but the world did not know Him. But today, through repentance and baptism in the name of the Lord Jesus we can drink from the fountain that never runs dry.

His Spirit (aka the Holy Ghost) -- the well of water that quickens us, springing our very being into everlasting life. Praise Jesus today for His amazing love and grace. 

Stand in the offering plate.