And the Grace of Our Lord Was Exceeding Abundant With Faith And Love Which Is In Christ Jesus - Part 1207

"And in those days, when the number of the disciples was multiplied, there arose a murmuring of the Grecians against the Hebrews because their widows were neglected in the daily ministration." (Acts 6:1)

The word Grecian is the Greek word for "hellenists" which is used throughout the New Testament to refer to Jews born in a foreign land and yet still spoke Greek. Note that the author here is not referring to the Gentiles (because at this point in Acts the Gentiles had not yet been grafted in) but to the Jewish widows who were born outside of Jerusalem.

For reference, the Grecians are cited elsewhere in Acts when Barnabas preaches the Lord Jesus to them. In one such example, "the hand of the Lord was upon them and a great number believed and turned unto the Lord." (Acts 9:29; Acts 11:20; Joel 3:6)

As indicated above, the Grecians were concerned that the widows were being neglected in food distribution. Up until this point, the apostles had made a practice of making sure that every man and woman was provided for according to his or her need. We read of similar examples where disciples of Jesus willingly gave their surplus so that none among them lacked. (Acts 2:41, Acts 4:35, and Acts 11:29) 

In this particular case, the apostles did not shirk from their responsibility. Rather, the apostles recognized that there was a need for others to help with the ministering of the gospel.

"Then the twelve called the multitude of the disciples unto them, and said, "It is not reason that we should leave the Word of God, and serve tables. Wherefore, brethren, look ye out among you seven men of honest report, full of the Holy Ghost and wisdom, whom we may appoint over this business, but we will give ourselves continually to prayer, and to the ministry of the Word." (Acts 6:2-4)

Interestingly, there is a similar example cited on the old covenant side, whereby Moses father-in-law raised a similar issue concerning Moses. He asked, "What is this thing that thou doest to they people? Why sittest thou thyself alone, and all the people stand by thee from morning unto even?" And Moses said unto his father in law, "Because the people come unto me to enquire of God. When they have a matter, they come unto me, and I judge between one and another, and I do make them know the statutes of God, and His laws." What did Moses father-in-law say?

"The thing that thou doest is not good. Thou wilt surely: ; Matthew wear away, both thou, and this people that is with thee; for this thing is too heavy for thee. Thou art not able to perform it. Hearken now unto my voice. I will give thee counsel, and God shall be with thee. Be thou for the people to God-ward, that thou mayest bring the causes unto God, and thou shalt teach them ordinances and laws, and shalt show them the way wherein they must walk, and the work they must do. Moreover, thou shalt provide out of all the people, able men, such as fear God, men of truth, hating covetousness, and place such over them ... and let them judge the people at all seasons ..." (Exodus 18:13-23)

The difference between the old covenant and the new testament is that in the latter example, we are "equals" within the body of Christ. As Jesus so aptly put, "I have chosen and ordained you." (John 15:16)

So when the twelve chose Stephen, a man full of faith and of the Holy Ghost, and Philip, and Prochorus, and Nicanor, and Timon, and Parmenas, and Nicolas, a proselyte of Antioch, "whom they set before the apostles" these were united in one accord through the Holy Ghost. 

These men also held the mystery of the faith in a pure conscience, including the mystery of godliness that includes the understanding of who Jesus was (the Word). That is, God manifest in the flesh. (I Timothy 3:7-16; Isaiah 9:6; Matthew 1:21-23) As when Matthias was numbered with the eleven to take part in the ministry and apostleship (from which Judas by transgression fell), he also was with one accord in the good news message of the Kingdom, standing in unison with Peter and the other apostles on the day of Pentecost. (Acts 1:23-Acts 2:14) But I digress.

So, when the twelve prayed, and laid their hands on the seven, the Lord knew the hearts of those that chose to take part in this ministry and apostleship. (Acts 1:24) And, as a consequence of their profession, "the Word of God increased, and the number of the disciples multiplied in Jerusalem greatly, and a great company of the priests were obedient to the faith." (Acts 6:7)

Why? Because the seven (like Jesus' 12 disciples) preached the Word.

One of the seven -- Stephen was a table servant. Mind you, his reputation among the people (and noted in the scripture) was that Stephen was full of faith and power, and did great wonders and miracles among the people. (Acts 6:8) Although not one of the original twelve disciples, Stephen still performed wonders and miracles. This example, in and of itself serves as proof that the Lord did not just perform miracles through His original chosen disciples, but those that followed later.

But there was another attribute among the seven to make note of. That is, Stephen was also full of boldness when it came to preaching Jesus the Christ as our one and only Saviour.

We see this when there arose certain of the synagogue which is called the synagogue of the Libertines, and Cyrenians, and Alexandrians, and of them of Cilicia and of Asia. These were filled with indignation at the doctrine of Stephen, and perhaps, even somewhat envious of the miracles he performed. So, as the scriptures cite, these disputed with Stephen. And yet they were not able to resist the wisdom and the Spirit by which he spake. (Acts 6:9-10)

Indeed, all of these groups disputed the Word with him. But when they could not persuade Stephen from his teaching, they decided to speak against him. Remember, how Jesus had told the rich men casting their gifts into the treasury, that He -- Jesus -- "will give you a mouth and wisdom which all your adversaries shall not be able to gainsay nor resist"? (Luke 21:15) This is what was happening here. 

But Stephen's gospel message didn't change because of his audience. In fact, the message he preached in Acts 7 was very similar to the one preached by Peter (standing with the eleven disciples) on the day of Pentecost. Therein, the first 3,000 Jews (also pricked in their hearts) "gladly" received the gospel. (Acts 2:36-42)

But not here. These instead suborned (or bribed men) to say of Stephen, "We have heard him speak blasphemous words against Moses, and against God." And they stirred up the people, and the elders, and the scribes, and came upon him, and caught him, and brought him to the council. 

Therein, these set up false witnesses which said, "This man ceases not to speak blasphemous words against this holy place, and the Law, for we have heard him say that Jesus of Nazareth shall destroy this place, and shall change the customs which Moses delivered us." (Acts 6:11-14)

Had these read the old covenant scrolls as these learned men were ordained by the authorities of the day, these would have known two things from the scriptures. First, the purpose of the prophesied Messiah or Christ was to change the customs which Moses delivered, because He Himself would save His people from their sin. (Matthew 1:21-23) 

"(For until the law sin was in the world, but sin is not imputed when there is no law. Nevertheless, death reigned from Adam to Moses, even over them that hand not sinned after the similitude of Adam's transgression, who is the figure of Him that was to come. But not as the offence, so also is the free gift. For if through the offence of one many be dead, much more the grace which is by one man -- Jesus Christ -- hath abounded unto many. And not as it was by one that sinned, so is the gift, for the judgement was by one to condemnation, but the free gift of many offences unto justification. For if by one man's offence death reigned by one, much more they which receive abundance of grace and of the gift of righteousness shall reign in life by one, Jesus Christ)." (Romans 5:13-17; I Corinthians 15:21-22)

"Because He hath poured out His soul unto death and He was numbered with the transgressors, and He bare the sin of many, and made intercession for the transgressors." (Isaiah 53:11-12; Isaiah 42:1; Isaiah 43:1; Genesis 49:10)

"Therefore, as by the offence of one judgement, came upon all men to condemnation, even so by the righteousness of one the free gift came upon all men into justification of life. For as by one man's disobedience many were made sinners, so by the obedience of One shall many be made righteous. Moreover, the Law entered that the offence might abound. But where sin abounded, grace did much more abound, that as sin hath reigned unto death, even so, might grace reign through righteousness unto eternal life by Jesus Christ our Lord." (Romans 5:18-21)

Today, we realize that this same persecution that was evident in Jesus' time, and in the apostles' day, is in the world today. The same spirit and response to the Word that eventually led to Stephen's death is still vengeful against those who preach Jesus today. 

Two examples. The first on the day of Pentecost when the people gladly repented and were baptized in Jesus' name, and the second, when Stephen preached the same apostles' doctrine but was hated for the Word. Jesus warned us that the anti-christ was in the world. 

In fact, Jesus said, "If the world hate you, ye know that it hated Me before it hated you ... If they have persecuted Me, they will also persecute you. " (John 15:16-20)

In other words, we are to marvel not if the world hates us, because the worldly spirit first hated Jesus and crucified him. In Stephen's case, a man full of the Holy Ghost, he was willing to boldly proclaim the gospel of Jesus Christ, regardless of the consequences. Like the apostles, he recognized that the true gospel divided the cities, leaving those who would love Jesus and those who would gnash their teeth and close their ears simply because of the precious name of Jesus.

What we need to remember today is that the grace that we have received is sufficient for all seasons. 

Jesus said, "I will never leave thee nor forsake thee." (Hebrews 13:5; Deuteronomy 31:6-8; Philippians 4:6-7)

"And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to [His] purpose." (Romans 8:28)

This may explain why in the last verse of Acts 6, "all that sat in the council, looking steadfastly on [Stephen] saw his face as it had been the face of the angel." (Acts 6:15)

Stand in the offering plate.

(As background, the differences between synagogues could be likened to the variety of churches that are found within our own landscape. For example, the Libertines is a Roman name that signifies freedmen, or "free men" who were sons of Jews that had likely obtained their freedom in Rome. The Cyrenians, as the name suggests are natives of Cyrene from whence many Jews came. It is believed that the Cyrenians and the Libertines may have belonged to the same synagogue, or conversely, had distinct synagogues unique to them. To my knowledge, this is not well established. The Alexandrians had a peculiar synagogue which was at Jerusalem and that is known because the Jewish made reference to it in their writings. Often, when something needed repaired, the men from Alexandria were summoned and thus, from this re-settlement of people, a synagogue was established. Saul of Tarsus was from the synagogue attended by the Cilicians).

The Holy Ghost This Signifying That the Way Into the Holiest of All Was Not Yet Made Manifest While the First Tabernacle Was Yet Standing - Part 1206

In Him -- Jesus -- we have redemption through His holy Spirit blood. We have found in Him our deliverance. In other words, we have been ransomed from captivity. He bought our freedom so that we might have life. Not just life on this earth but life eternal as well. 

For those of you who are not familiar with the scriptures, the word "redemption" means the remission and forgiveness of our sins. Jesus, the incarnation of the unseen God. God manifest in the flesh. Indeed, He is the embodiment of the Spirit of God. God Himself is the second Adam, the firstborn and the Head of all creation. 

He is the Word of God spoken through the mouth of God’s own body. And they shall call His name Jesus for He shall save His people from their sin. (Matthew 1:21-23)

When Paul asked the question, "Who are you Lord?" the response is simple. "I am Jesus." Jesus said to some unbelievers during His time on earth that if they were to die without exercising their faith, (as in if you do not believe that I AM), then they shall die in their sins. This outcome, even though God is not willing that any should perish. 

When God became our Saviour on the cross, He was on a salvation mission. And two thousand years later, He is still on that same a salvation mission, long suffering so that one and all can come to His throne of grace. He is inviting us to the wedding feast. He asks us to come all of us who are heavy laden and He will give us rest.

Indeed, in all things He shall have the pre-eminence over all created things. All things were made by Him and for Him. It is by Him that all things exist. Without Him there is nothing made that was made for by Him the universe was created. All things He created whether those things are in Heaven or on Earth. (John 1:1-18; I Timothy 3:16; Isaiah 9:6)

He created the visible and the invisible, the spiritual and the material. God even created the angels and archangels, including all the powers of Heaven. Even the spirit world with its kings and kingdoms and its rulers and authorities were all created by Almighty God. 

All of these were created by Him and for Him. All was made by Jesus the Christ for His own use and glory.  

Throughout it all, in every day that passes, Jesus takes precedence. Why? Because He is God alone and in Him and through Him the universe is sustained and embraced as one harmonious whole. Jesus is the Head of the body, the assembly, the church, and the congregation. He Himself is the firstborn from the dead. He is also the church’s source of life. Life. We may not be privy to all the details but we do know that our life began in Him and through Him. He occupies the foremost place. He is justly called Lord of All.

For He willed that in Himself all the fullness of His divine perfection chose to live. For in Him the complete being of God who by His own choice came to live. God wanted all of Himself to be manifest as a Son so that all the universe should dwell in Him. And now, having made peace through the blood of His cross, by Himself as a Son, He came to reconcile us. He brought us a new testament, sealed with His very blood.

And, as a consequence, He won back everything to Himself. It was through Himself as a Son that God cleared a path for everything and everyone to come to Him.

For it pleased God that we who were at one time estranged and enemies of Him and in our minds at war with Him, living in evil wickedness, that we can now access the gift of salvation. Now He has bought us back as His friends. He has by Himself as a Son reconciled us to Him. By the means of the sacrifice of His own human flesh and blood body in death at Calvary, God Himself as a Son did all of this on our behalf. This, so He may present us before Himself as dedicated men and women without blemish and innocent in His sight.

The body of Christ. His bride.

Blameless and un-accusable before Him. For you shall have no other Gods before me. The scriptures state, "My glory, I will not give to another." God has glorified His Son Jesus. And what do the scriptures state? That every knee shall bow and every tongue confess that Jesus the Christ IS indeed Lord. Herein is the Holy Ghost glorified for He who has the Son has the Father also.

These words are offered in order that you may know Him personally, who if you peruse the unveiling of Him according to the revealed Word is life eternal. It is then that we will and can worship Him alone. God Himself in the face of Jesus. 

Again, the question is asked - who are you Lord? I AM JESUS. Stand in the offering plate with your blessed Saviour and be made whole. Your sins are forgiven you. Peace to all who are in Jesus the Christ.

And the Word Was Made Flesh and Dwelt Among Us, And We Beheld His Glory- Part 1205

"Preach the Word, be instant in season, out of season, reprove, rebuke, exhort with all long suffering and doctrine ... for the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine, but after their own lusts shall they heap to themselves teachers, having itching ears, and they shall turn their ears from the truth, and shall be turned into fables." (II Timothy 4:2-4)

Within the majority of the modern day church community, we are witnessing the turning away from the apostles' doctrine that Peter (standing with the eleven other apostles) delivered to the first 3,000 souls saved on the day of Pentecost. Those new believers that gladly received the good news gospel of their Lord God and Saviour, including repentance and water baptism in the name of Jesus. (Acts 2:36-42)

Today, however, rather than abiding in Jesus -- the King of kings and Lord of lords -- or seeking His counsel and wisdom through His Word, the preference is fine-sounding, eloquent teachers spinning out their personal take on scripture, without you and I ever seeking an understanding of these same scriptures on our own.

The difficulty with this practice is this. If we do not know what the Word actually says, how can we preach the Word with all long suffering and doctrine? How can we be instant both in and out of season? Or, in the increasing of our faith, acquire an ability to sharpen one another, as the apostles did?

For example, when Paul, a servant of God and an apostles of Jesus Christ (according to the faith of God's elect, and the acknowledging of the truth which is after godliness) wrote to Titus, he was adamant about "holding fast the faithful Word as he had been taught, that he may be able by sound doctrine 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 1:1-11)

There are many who refuse to continue steadfastly in the apostles doctrine, in breaking of bread, in fellowship and in prayers. (Acts 2:42)

Note for purposes of clarity that Paul here was specifically referring to the Cretians, whereby a prophet of their own even proclaimed the Cretians to be always liars, evil beasts, slow bellies. (Titus 1:12) But sadly, we see this same type of issue emerging in the modern day religious culture today, willfully blinding entire families from knowing the truth.

That is, Jesus is the ONLY mediator between God and man. Jesus is the Way, the Truth, and the Life. Jesus is the bread of life. Jesus is the door to salvation and eternal life.

Why is this important? Because there are too many new believers who are still learning and feeding from the milk (although I am sure this point can be equally applied to many believers who consider themselves mature).  Still, the scriptures state -- "for when for the time we ought to be teachers, ye have need that one teach you again which be the first principles of the oracles of God and are become such as have need of milk and not of strong meat." (Hebrews 5:12-13)

Why do we need strong meat? Because it belongs to those who by reason of use have their senses exercised, to discern both good and evil. Only then can we really begin to grow in our faith journey toward perfection, leaving the principles of the doctrine of Christ behind.

Hebrews 6 states: "Therefore, leaving the principles of the doctrine of Christ, let us go on unto perfection, not laying again the foundation of repentance from dead works, and of faith toward God, of the doctrine of baptisms, and of laying on of hands and of resurrection of the dead, and of eternal judgement." (Hebrews 6:1-2)

The point is this. Time is short. And, as well, it is critical that believers in Jesus the Christ by faith understand the Godhead, and not pray to an "unknown god" as the apostles discovered on one occasion in the book of Acts. In fact, we need to know firsthand who God is -- and, that the Word referred to in the scriptures is in fact Jesus.

Yes, the Word is the prophesied Christ (or Messiah) that prophets foretold of hundreds of years before He was born. The Word is both Lord and Christ. (Acts 2:36) And we are sanctified through Thy Word.

"And they shall call His name Jesus, for He shall save His people from their sin." (Matthew 1:21-23)

We also know about the Word from the first chapter of John, which states: "In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. The same was in the beginning with God." (John 1:1-2)

Note that verse 2 says "the same" was with God -- and not another He, as modern day religion presents.

Further, "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 [even] to them that believe on His name." (John 1:10-12)

Indeed, the Word was made flesh and dwelt among us. (John 1:14)

Sadly, this is only one doctrine that is not being accurately taught today in the church community. There are many others too, but it does not have to be this way. James wrote:  "If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that gives to all liberally, and upbraids not, and it shall be given him. But let him ask in faith, nothing wavering. For he that wavers is like a wave of the sea driven with the wind and tossed. For let not that man think that he shall receive any thing of the Lord. A double minded man is unstable in all his ways." (James 1:1-8)

Instead, let's study His Word for our own understanding and edification. Most of all, as James wrote -- "do not err, my beloved brethren. Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and cometh down from the Father of lights, with whom is no variableness, neither shadow of turning, of His own will begat He us with the Word of truth, that we should be a kind of first fruits of His creatures." (James 1:16-18)

And, don't forget to "be ye doers of the Word and not hearers only, deceiving your own selves." (James 1:22) Study the Word, as a workman does so that not only you can profit, but those to whom you preach the gospel of the kingdom. Stand in the offering plate.

Neither Is There Any Other Name - Part 1203

In Acts 4, what happened when the apostles were commanded NOT to teach or preach in the name of Jesus? Did they stop? Not a chance. Water baptism? In the name of Jesus. (Acts 2:37-42; I Corinthians 6:11; Romans 6:3-4; Acts 8:26-40) Signs and wonders? In the name of Jesus. (Mark 16:17) Healing? In the name of Jesus. (Acts 4:30) Casting out demons? In the name of Jesus. (Luke 10:17) 

Further, whenever the apostles entered a city, they were known to cause division and strife. Either the apostles were hated by the people for preaching Jesus, or loved. In those days, there was no place for sitting on the fence. Believers were either fully committed to preaching the gospel or they were not. Indeed, these knew from whence came their salvation, and were willing to lose their earthly life for their Saviour.

Paul wrote to the faithful in Christ Jesus at Ephesus, "The eyes of your understanding being enlightened, that ye may know what is the hope of His calling, and what the riches of the glory of His inheritance in the saints, and what is the exceeding greatness of His power to us-ward who believe, according to the working of His mighty power which He wrought in Christ, when He raised Him from the dead and set [Him] at His own right hand in the heavenly [places] ... which is His body, the fullness of Him that filleth all in all." (Ephesians 1:1-23)

We can either subscribe to the modern day religious culture (that is supposed to be based on His Word) or the very stone which the builders rejected, which in fact is Jesus. (Ephesians 4:19-22; Acts 4:11-12) Your choice? But at the end of the day, whether we like it or not, EVERY KNEE WILL BOW AND DECLARE THAT JESUS CHRIST IS LORD. (Romans 14:11; Philippians 2:10-11; Isaiah 45:12; Hebrews 13:8)

Stand in the offering plate.

Put Ye On the Righteousness of Our Lord Jesus Christ - Part 1202

"And such were some of you but ye are washed, but ye are sanctified, but ye are justified "in the name of the Lord Jesus" and by the Spirit of our God." (I Corinthians 6:11)

Apostle Paul makes an interesting case when speaking to the church of God which is at Corinth, with all the saints which are in all Achaia. Therein, Paul writes, "If I be not an apostle to others, yet doubtless I am to you -- for the seal of mine apostleship are ye in the Lord." (I Corinthians 9:2)

Note that this is the same Saul/Paul who had at one time persecuted the church but now preached the faith which once he destroyed. (Galatians 1:23) In fact, as we know from the scriptures, "he made havoc of the church, entering into every house, and haling men and women [committing them] to prison." (Acts 8:3)

In fact, while Saul was yet breathing out threatenings and slaughter against the disciples of the Lord, he wasn't satisfied. How do we know this? Saul went unto the high priest for letters so that he might bring and bind any men or women he found preaching Jesus, and those already bound in Damascus back to Jerusalem. (Acts 22:5)

But in spite of his own worldly plans, our Lord God and Saviour Jesus the Christ had a different plan.

That is the Lord stopped him on the road to Damascus saying, "Saul, Saul, why persecutest thou Me?" 

And Saul said, "Who art Thou Lord?" 

And the Lord said, "I am JESUS [of Nazareth] whom thou persecutest. It is hard for thee to kick against the pricks." (Acts 9:1-5; Acts 22:7-8)

Saul then asks, "What shall I do, Lord?" 

And the Lord said unto Paul, "Arise and go into Damascus and there it shall be told thee of all things which are appointed for thee to do." (Acts 22:10)

Note that there were witnesses that also heard the voice of Jesus. All those that were traveling with Saul heard the voice of Him that spake too. When Saul/Paul blinded from the glory of the light came to Damascus -- being led by the hand of them that were with him-- he met with Ananias, a devout man according to the law, having a good report of all the Jews which dwelt there.

When the two met, Ananias said, "Brother Saul, receive thy sight" and the same hour Saul could look upon him. Then Ananias said, "The God of our fathers hath chosen thee that thou shouldest know His will and see that Just One, and shouldest hear the voice of His mouth. For thou shalt be His witness unto all men of what thou hast seen and heard. And now why tarriest thou? Arise and be baptized and wash away thy sins, calling on the name of the Lord." (Acts 22:11-16)

Read that scripture again. "The God of our fathers has chosen thee ..." (Acts 22:14) Not another God but the very same God who willingly became flesh and dwelt among us so that we who believe in Him by faith could be clothed in His righteousness. 

"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 1:1-14)

Yes, our Lord God and Saviour Jesus the Christ said, "I have chosen and ordained you." (John 15:16)

He has a purpose that He placed in our hearts when we were formed in our mother's womb. Thus, regardless of what we have done in the past, Jesus (who is both Lord and Christ -- Acts 2:36) wants to clothe us with His garment of righteousness. He wants to fill us with His Spirit so that we too can experience the grace and truth that came by Jesus Christ. (John 1:16-17)

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

The same record that John the baptist attested to when they asked him "Who art Thou?" The same record stated by Isaiah when the Lord spoke through him saying, "I am the Lord and there is none else. There is no God beside Me. I am the Lord and there is none else." (Isaiah 45:5)

So although the world may hate you because you teach and preach Jesus, know that Jesus told us beforehand that "if the world hate you, ye know that it hated Me before [it hated] you." (John 15:18)

"And ye shall be hated of all [men] for My name's sake: but he that endureth to the end shall be saved." (Matthew 10:22)

The question is this.  "For do I now persuade men, or God? Or, do I seek to please men? For if I yet pleased men, I should not be the servant of Christ." (Galatians 1:10)

The decision is yours alone. I only pray that you will choose our Lord God and Saviour Jesus the Christ, for in Him is life more abundantly. Remember too, that faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the Word of God. (Romans 10:17) The same Word that was in the beginning with God and was God. (John 1:1)

As Saul/Paul clearly stated, "If I be not an apostle to others, yet doubtless I am to you -- for the seal of mine apostleship are ye in the Lord." (I Corinthians 9:2)

Stand up for the things that are right. Put on His righteousness. Be washed, sanctified, justified in the name of our Lord Jesus and the Spirit of our God. Most of all, preach Jesus wherever you are so that the seal of your apostleship too may be in the Lord. 

Stand in the offering plate.

Righteousness Shall Go Before Him And Shall Set Us In the Way of His Steps - Part 1201

Jesus spends considerable time sharing parables with His disciples that follow Him. In one parable, Jesus compares the kingdom of heaven to a man travelling into a far country, who called his own servants and delivered unto them his goods. To one he gave five talents. To another, he gave two, and to yet another a single talent. As Jesus states, the lord gave "to every man according to his several ability, and straightway took his journey." (Matthew 25:14-15)

After a time, the lord of those servants comes to reckon with them. To the one that received five talents, he had gained five more. The one with two talents, he likewise gained another two. But sadly, the one who only received one talent buried his talent. Digged that talent in the earth so that it was hid from the world around him.

In concluding, the lord in the parable says unto the first and the second, "Well done, thou good and faithful servant. Thou hast been faithful over a few things, I will make thee ruler over many things. Enter thou into the joy of thy Lord." (Matthew 25:21)

But as we read, this joyful response was not told to the servant who hid his talent in the ground. Given that this particular parable is preached often, I won't try to explain its underlying meaning. Rather, it might be instructive to focus on how the apostles/disciples of Jesus in speaking unto the church[es] of God, to them that are sanctified in Christ Jesus (called to be saints), with all that in every place call upon the name of Jesus Christ our Lord, disseminated the gospel. (I Corinthians 1:1-2) 

Certainly, the scriptures offer a range of examples. For instance, when the apostles were commanded not to teach or preach in the name of Jesus, did they stop? Not a chance. Water baptism? In the name of Jesus. Signs and wonders? In the name of Jesus. Healings? In the name of Jesus. Casting out demons? In the name of Jesus.

Further, whenever the apostles entered a city, they were known to cause division. Either the apostles were hated by the people for preaching Jesus, or loved. In those days, there was no place for sitting on the fence. Believers were either fully committed to preaching the gospel or they were not. Indeed, these knew from whence came their salvation, and were willing to lose their earthly life for their Saviour.

Paul wrote to the faithful in Christ Jesus at Ephesus, "The eyes of your understanding being enlightened, that ye may know what is the hope of His calling, and what the riches of the glory of His inheritance in the saints, and what is the exceeding greatness of His power to us-ward who believe, according to the working of His mighty power which He wrought in Christ, when He raised Him from the dead and set [Him] at His own right hand in the heavenly [places] ... which is His body, the fullness of Him that filleth all in all." (Ephesians 1:1-23)

Paul wrote more but you get the point. The problem is that today, too often, we hurriedly bury the talent that we have been given. And so that we don't look conspicuous in our profession of faith, the devil has invented a modern day religious culture that downplays the importance of going into the highways and byways, and the hedges, preaching the gospel of our Lord and Saviour. 

Lately, the religious culture has taken on a new stance, further intimidating (or inhibiting) those who speak the truth of the gospel, by suggesting that those who boldly proclaim the gospel of Jesus Christ are not being kind to their fellow man. Or, as I was reminded last evening, offering opinions -- even though those very opinions are deeply rooted within the scriptures themselves, should anyone have taken the time to read them. 

Which brings me to the example of a certain Jew named Apollos, born at Alexandria. He was described as an eloquent man, and mighty in the scriptures. 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 only the baptism of John. Still, he spoke boldly in the synagogue. 

But when Aquila and Priscilla had heard this, they took Apollos aside 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, showing by the scriptures that Jesus was Christ. (Acts 19:24-28)

In this example, we see two examples of how the apostles/disciples shared the gospel. In the first, Aquila and Priscilla took Apollos aside and expounded unto him the way of God "more perfectly." (Acts 18:26) Up until then, Apollos was happily sharing the gospel fervently in the spirit, teaching diligently the things of the Lord that he knew. But at that time he knew only the baptism of John -- unto repentance, whereby the baptism in water only cleansed the outside.

Had repentance been sufficient, there would have been no need for Aquila and Priscilla to take Apollos aside. Neither would the scriptures state that these two did so in order to expound unto him the way of God more perfectly. Why? Because he only had a portion of the gospel. He did not know that John the baptist pointed to Jesus, telling everyone that he (John) must decrease so that Jesus could increase. 

In fact, Apollos did not know that this same Jesus -- spoken of by John the baptist -- who was to come after him was mightier than John, or that "He shall baptize you with the Holy Ghost and with fire ..." (Matthew 3:11; Luke 3:16; Acts 2:3-4)

Even so, Apollos did not hide his talent. Aquila and Priscilla found him preaching the portion of the gospel he did know. Did these leave him with a half truth? Of course not. Aquila and Priscilla never left him in darkness. These took Apollos aside so that he would know the truth. The good news gospel and the way of God more perfectly. 

And, in turn, what did Apollos do next? 

"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, showing by the scriptures that Jesus was Christ." (Acts 19:24-28)

Say that again. He mightily convinced the Jews publicly, showing by the scriptures that Jesus was indeed the promised Christ. (Acts 19:28) 

Not taken aside, but shown the scriptures publicly that would lead the Jews to believe that Jesus was the Christ that was prophesied in the old testament. The very same message that Peter (standing with the eleven) taught on the day of Pentecost, when the believers were filled with the Holy Ghost and fire. 

That is, this same Jesus whom the people crucified, was (and is) both Lord and Christ. And, when they asked the apostles what they must do in Acts 2, Peter told them to "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 2:36-39)

Just like Apollos was even more fervent in preaching the gospel message of Jesus the Christ, the first 3,000 believers were gladly water baptized in the name of their Saviour Jesus. And as we learn, from that day, these continued steadfastly in the apostles' doctrine and fellowship, and in breaking of bread, and in prayers, and fear came upon every soul, and many wonders and signs were done by the apostles, and all that believed were together and had all things common. (Acts 2:36-45)

These new believers continuing daily with one accord in the temple, and breaking bread from house to house did eat their meat with gladness and singleness of heart, praising God and having favour with all the people. And the Lord added to the church daily such as should be saved. (Acts 2:46-47) 

Just like Apollos gladly received the rest of the gospel when he learned that the One who came after John was greater than John. In today's world, we need to diligently search the scriptures, for therein lies our salvation. 

Therefore, instead of running away from the precious Word of God, maybe it's time that we opened the scriptures for our learning and edification. Why? So that we can also tell those around us about the amazing love story wrapped up in our Lord God and Saviour Jesus the Christ. So that we can be fully clothed in His righteousness. His mercy. His grace. His precious love that included the shedding of His precious holy blood on a cross so that we might experience life more abundantly. 

Not by burying our talents, but using our talents to ensure that the salvation of others is sealed in His righteousness too. The righteousness of our Lord God and Saviour Jesus the Christ.

"Wherefore God also hath highly exalted Him, and given Him a name which is above every name, that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of [things] in heaven, and [things] in earth, and [things] under the earth; and [that] every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ [is] Lord, to the glory of God the Father." (Philippians 2:9-11)

This is why Paul wrote: "Let a man so account of us, as of the ministers of Christ, and stewards of the mysteries of God ... that a man be found faithful ..." (I Corinthians 4:1-2)

Walk in the way of His steps. Stand in the offering plate. 

Beside Me, There Is No Saviour - Part 1200

Jesus said, "I have chosen you, and ordained you, that ye should go and bring forth fruit, and that your fruit should remain: that whatsoever ye shall ask of the Father in My name, He may give it you ..." (John 15:16)

And just in case someone still thinks that Jesus is not Almighty God in the flesh, look at what the Lord Himself said about Himself ...

"Ye are My witnesses," saith the Lord, "and My servant whom I have chosen -- that ye may know and believe Me, and understand that I am He. Before Me there was no God formed, neither shall there be after Me. I, even I, am the Lord; and beside Me there is no Saviour." (Isaiah 43:10-11)

"He was in the world and the world was made by Him but the world knew Him not." (John 1:1-18)

"One Lord. One Faith. One Baptism. One God and Father of all, who is above all, and through all, and in you all. But unto every one of us is given grace according to the measure of the gift of Christ." (Ephesians 4:5-6)

Stand in the offering plate.

But the Publicans and the Harlots Gladly Believed And Were Baptized in the Name of the Lord Jesus Christ - Part 1199

Even in Jesus' time, there were those who would do anything but believe the gospel. Anything but obey the commandments of Jesus and His chosen apostles. In fact, how often did the chief priests and elders/scribes in that day challenge the teachings of Jesus? On one occasion, the chief priests and elders asked Jesus, "By what authority doest Thou these things? And who gave Thee this authority?" (Matthew 21:23)

In this particular example (as told by both Luke and Matthew), Jesus answered and said unto them, "I will also ask you one thing, and answer Me. The baptism of John, was it from heaven, or of men?" (Luke 20:3-4)

"I also will ask you one thing, which if ye tell Me, I in likewise will tell you by what authority I do these things. The baptism of John, whence was it? From heaven, or from men?" (Matthew 21:24-25)

As they reasoned with themselves, they surmised, "If we shall say -- from heaven, He will say, "Why then believed ye him not?" but and if we say, "Of men" all the people will stone us for they be persuaded that John was a prophet. And they answered that they could not tell whence [it was]. And Jesus said unto them, "Neither tell I you by what authority I do these things." (Luke 20:5-8; Matthew 21:24-25)

Note that the apostles of the Lord Jesus Christ later faced the same scrutiny from the priests, the captain of the temple, and the Sadducee's. "Being grieved that they taught the people and preached through Jesus the resurrection from the dead, they laid hands on them and put them in hold unto the next day for it was eventide." (Acts 4:1-3)

And when the next day came, the rulers, elders and scribes, and Annas the high priest, and Caiaphas, and John, and Alexander, and as many as were of the kindred of the high priest were gathered together at Jerusalem, and when they had set them in the midst, they asked, "By what power, or by what name have ye done this?" (Acts 4:4-7)

Peter, filled with the Holy Ghost said unto them, "Ye rulers of the people, and elders of Israel, if we this day be examined of the good deed done to the impotent man, by what means he is made whole? Be it known unto you all and to all the people of Israel, that BY THE NAME OF JESUS CHRIST OF NAZARETH, whom ye crucified, whom God raised from the dead, [even] by Him doth this man stand before you whole. This is the stone which was set at nought of you builders which is become the Head of the corner." (Acts 4:8-11; Psalms 118:22; Isaiah 28:16; I Peter 2:4-8)

This is why the name of Jesus is the authority name. This is why the name of Jesus is the power name, whereby we must all come if we are to inherit eternal life.

Remember the parable that Jesus told? This parable spake Jesus unto them but they understood not what things they were which He spake unto them. (John 10:6) That is, Jesus said, "Verily, verily, I say unto you. He that enters not by the door into the sheepfold, but climbs up some other way, the same is a thief and a robber. But he that enters in by the door is the shepherd of the sheep. To him the porter opens; and the sheep hear his voice: and he calls his own sheep by name, and leads them out. And when he puts forth his own sheep, he goes before them, and the sheep follow him: for they know his voice. And a stranger will they not follow, but will flee from him: for they know not the voice of strangers." (John 10:1-5)

What did Jesus do? Jesus told this same parable unto them again.

Jesus said, "Verily, verily, I say unto you, "I am the Door of the sheep." All that ever came before Me are thieves and robbers, but the sheep did not hear them. I am the door. By Me if any man enter in, he shall be saved, and shall go in and out, and find pasture. The thief comes not, but for to steal, and to kill, and to destroy. I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly. I am the Good Shepherd. The Good Shepherd gives His life for the sheep." (John 10:7-11)

This is why there is only one name whereby we must be saved. This is why there is only one way to inherit eternal life.

Because "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)

When they saw the boldness of Peter and John, and perceived that they were unlearned and ignorant men, they marveled and they took knowledge of them, that they had been with Jesus. (Acts 4:13)

The very same Jesus that had earlier asked the scribes and Pharisees, "But what think ye? A certain man had two sons and he came to the first and said, "Son, go work today in My vineyard." He answered and said, "I will not, but afterward he repented, and went. And he came to the second, and said likewise. And he answered and said, "I go sir" and went not. Whether of them twain did the will of [his] father?" (Matthew 21:28-30)

They say unto Him, "The first." Jesus saith unto them, "Verily, I say unto you, that the publicans and the harlots go into the kingdom of God before you ... for John came unto you in the way of righteousness, and ye believed him not, but the publicans and the harlots believed him, and ye, when ye had seen [it] repented not afterward that ye might believe him." (Matthew 21:31-32)

Indeed, as we read, these stood on the shore, desiring not to get wet. Remember, what John said to them, when he saw many of the Pharisees and Sadducees come to his baptism? He said, "O generation of vipers, who hath warned you to flee from the wrath to come? Bring forth therefore fruits meet for repentance, and think not to say within yourselves, "We have Abraham our father" for I say unto you, that God is able of these stones to raise up children unto Abraham, and now also the ax is laid unto the root of the trees; therefore, every tree which brings forth good fruit is hewn down and cast into the fire." (Matthew 3:7-10)

But John did not stop there. He continued, saying, "I indeed baptize you with water unto repentance, but He that comes after me is mightier than I, whose shoes I am not worthy to bear, He shall baptize you with the Holy Ghost and with fire ..." (Matthew 3:11)

The point being the publicans and harlots believed John's baptism unto repentance, whereby the cleansing from the water washed the outside. But John the baptist did not take the glory for himself. He pointed to the One who was to come after him. That is, Jesus the Christ.

So that later -- when the apostles commanded the first 3,000 to repent and be baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ for the remission of sin on the day of Pentecost -- they were acknowledging the One who did come after John.

And what happened? When they asked Peter (standing with the eleven) what they must do to be saved, the message of repentance and baptism in the name of the Lord Jesus was gladly received by the publicans and harlots. (Acts 2:37-42)

Gladly received.

Still, the rulers wanted to know by "what power" and by "what name" did the apostles do these things? (Acts 4:7) Of course, these already knew the answer because they commanded the apostles "not to speak at all nor teach in the name of Jesus." (Acts 4:17-18)

As it was then, and still today, it is the name of JESUS that gives offence.

"And they shall call His name Jesus for He shall save His people from their sins." (Matthew 1:21-23)

The power and authority that can only come from repenting and being baptized in His precious name, as every individual water baptized (after Jesus was taken up) recorded in the scriptures had been. Note that those that gladly received the apostle's doctrine not only got wet (cleansing only the outer) but were buried and renewed in their hearts as they were baptized into the name of Jesus Christ. (Romans 6:3)

"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 planted together in the likeness of His death, we shall be also in the likeness of His resurrection." (Romans 6:1-10)

Yes, "God hath chosen the foolish things of the world to confound the wise, and things which are despised hath God chosen, yea, and things which are not, to bring to nought things that are, that no flesh should glory in His presence, but of Him are ye in Christ Jesus, who of God is made unto us wisdom, and righteousness, and sanctification, and redemption, that according as it is written, "He that glorieth, let him glory in the Lord." (I Corinthians 1:27-31)

"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)

Stand in the offering  plate.

Born Again As A New Spiritual Creation, Dwelling Within Us the Same Spirit As Was In the Man Jesus the Christ - Part 1198

This gospel reveals JESUS - who is the SEED of promise - and in which SEED all the nations of the earth can be blessed. This gospel became necessary when God Himself was veiled in flesh as a righteous man. For God declared that all have sinned and come short of the glory of God. (Romans 3:23) In this context, there is none righteous -- no not one.

The good news is that from the very beginning, the hidden plan of God was being unveiled. Yes, God had a plan for man even though at times we cannot comprehend what God has in store for us. Indeed, we often scratch our heads endeavouring to understand what is man that the Lord God Almighty would be so mindful of him. That His desire would include a plan of salvation for His children.

The psalmist scribed, "What is man that Thou art mindful of him? And the son of man, that Thou visitest him? For Thou hast made Him a little lower than the angels, and hast crowned Him with glory and honour. Thou madest Him to have dominion over the works of Thy hands; Thou hast put all things under His feet ..." (Psalms 8:4-6)
When man turned aside from His Word, it was here that the Lord imparted into EVE a SEED of promise. A SEED of Himself emanating from Himself. So that in the process of time, He would clothe His promised SEED in sin prone flesh, thereby initiating at the fullness of time His hidden plan of redemption.

That is, He would through His love, mercy and grace purchase us who were your yet His enemies and bring each and every one of us who believed by faith back to innocence. And this redemption plan, purchased through the sacrifice of your own blood (the blood of your holy Spirit).

In our ignorance of prophetic scripture, we indeed crucified JESUS. We were spurred along by religious zealots who in pretense professed to be God’s ministers, and in the end duped us into believing that such was the case. But the Lord is merciful, and knew our peril. Thus, He made a way when there was no way. He ripped the veil from top to bottom and rescued us from our sin.

Why? Because God’s love for His disobedient creation was much greater than our sin of beguiled disobedience. Because of God's love for us, there never can be anything that can separate us from God’s love. Indeed, God manifested His love to us whilst inside a prone to sin body, a body in which He willingly inherited all of our sins and demerits. But even death did not deter JESUS from His purposed mission, which was to redeem and restore the fallen sons of God.

This is why JESUS died and was buried in a tomb. As stated in the scriptures, "Except a corn of wheat falls into the ground and dies, it remains alone." However, if the corn of wheat were to die, in dying the potential life within the SEED springs forth as a multitude of the same SEED.

In this example, JESUS is the SEED and we are the offspring of the SEED of JESUS. In this same SEED (as afore promised of God in prophecy), all the nations of the earth will be blessed.

To become one of the offspring, certain criteria must be willingly adhered too. First of all, one must recognize that JESUS put Himself on the cross for you and I while we were still His enemies. This is why we must repent before God for our sinful deeds, giving thanks to God with a grateful heart. If one is not willing to offer themselves on these terms, then the door of redemption will sadly remain closed.

If, on the other hand, one willing repents with a grateful heart, then their sins are remitted in full by the same JESUS who put Himself in our place. We then receive the gift of redemption. And now having received redemption, God commands us to be baptized [buried] into the likeness of JESUS death. In His precious name -- the only name given under heaven whereby we must be saved. (Acts 4:12; Acts 2:36-42; Romans 6:1-4)

Jesus -- declared by the apostles to be both Lord and Christ. (Acts 2:36)

"Much more then, being now justified by His blood, we shall be saved from wrath through Him. For if, when we were enemies, we were reconciled to God by the death of His Son, much more, being reconciled, we shall be saved by His life. And not only so, but we also joy in God through our Lord Jesus Christ, by whom we have now received the atonement." (Romans 5:9-11)
In so doing, we shall receive the promised gift of the Holy Ghost that comes forth from the SEED of Life within the kernel of wheat - JESUS!

As such, you become the offspring of JESUS. We are now the children of God in Christ! We have been born again as a new spiritual creation, dwelling within us the same Spirit as was in the man JESUS the Christ! This Spirit is the Holy Ghost which was promised to the disciples after Jesus was taken up. (Acts 1:2-3)
When we receive the Holy Ghost -- the promised Comforter -- we ALL become members of that ONE SEED and because we are the offspring of the SEED, we now hunger for the things of God, endeavouring to walk even as He walked!

It is for this reason that we have so much to be thankful for. Praise our Lord God and Saviour for His mercy and grace. Take time to study His Word, and to be in His presence in everything that we do. Stand in the offering plate.

And When This Gospel of the Kingdom Shall Be Preached In All the World For a Witness Unto All Nations, Then Shall the End Come - Part 1197

"And the multitude of them that believed were of one heart and of one soul ..." (Acts 4:32)

"Like-minded one toward another according to Christ Jesus that ye may with one mind and one mouth glorify God, even the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ wherefore receive ye one another as Christ also received us to the glory of God." (Romans 15:5-7)

" ... by the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that ye all speak the same thing, and that there be no divisions among you, but [that] ye be perfectly joined together in the same mind and in the same judgement." (I Corinthians 1:10)

"And all that believed were together ..." (Acts 2:44)

Note that none of the meanings contained within these scriptures lead to the current religious mindset of forming a one world religion. The uniting of religions together into one is a prophecy that is still coming into being, and has more to do with the antichrist standing in the holy place as the vicar of Christ -- when satan himself is "transformed into an angel of light." (II Corinthians 11:14)

"When ye therefore shall see the abomination of desolation, spoken of by Daniel the prophet, stand in the holy place, (whoso reads, let him understand) then let them which be in Judaea flee into the mountains ..." (Matthew 24:15-31)
"Who opposes and exalts himself above all that is called God, or that is worshipped; so that he as God sits in the temple of God, shewing himself that he is God." (II Thessalonians 2:4)

Rather, this singleness of heart, one accord consisting of "one heart and one soul" refers to continuing steadfastly in the apostles' doctrine and fellowship, and in breaking of bread, and in prayers in which Jesus through the Holy Ghost commanded His apostles. (Acts 1:2; Acts 2:42; Acts 4:32)

"Until the day in which He [Jesus] was taken up, after that He through the Holy Ghost had given commandments unto the apostles whom He had chosen, to whom also He showed Himself alive after His passion by many infallible proofs, being seen of them forty days, and speaking of the things pertaining to the kingdom of God, and being assembled together with them, commanded them that they should not depart from Jerusalem, but wait for the promise of the Father, which [saith He] "ye have heard of Me. For John truly baptized with water, but ye shall be baptized with the Holy Ghost not many days hence." (Acts 1:1-5)

Therein, we learn that the disciples Peter, James, John, Andrew, Philip, Thomas, Bartholomew, Matthew, James the son of Alphae-us, Simon Zelotes, and Judas the brother of James, along with Mary the mother of Jesus and His brethren "all continued with one accord in prayer and supplication" in an upper room. Indeed, at this time, there were about an hundred and twenty disciples gathered together.

As we also read, Peter stood up in the midst of these disciples and explained that the journey chosen by Judas had been prophesied earlier in the book of Psalms, confirming to one and all that the road the fallen disciple Judas had chosen to take was not hid from those who studied the scriptures. 

"Men and brethren, this scripture must needs have been fulfilled, which the Holy Ghost by the mouth of David spake before concerning Judas, which was guide to them that took Jesus -- for he was numbered with us and had obtained part of this ministry." (Acts 1:16-20)

But Peter also revealed that the new testament was a consequence of the blood Jesus shed on the cross, when He willingly became our Saviour, and therein, begins this new current dispensation of grace.

"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 lives, whereupon neither the first testament was dedicated without blood ..." (Hebrews 9:15-18)

"Wherefore of these men which have companied with us all the time that the Lord Jesus went in and out among us, beginning from the baptism of John unto that same day that He was taken up from us, must one be ordained to be a witness with us of His resurrection." (Acts 1:21-22)

In other words, the beginning of a new testament in the Lord Jesus (the Christ) was dawning, whereby all those -- you and I -- who by birth had fallen short of the glory of God could be buried like Him in death, and resurrected in newness of life. (Romans 6:3)

"And when the day of Pentecost was fully come, they were all with one accord in one place, and suddenly there came a sound from heaven as a rushing mighty wind ... and they were all filled with the Holy Ghost and began to speak with other tongues, as the Spirit gave them utterance." (Acts 2:1-4)

And as we read through Acts 2, what happens? When the people heard what Peter tell them that this same Jesus whom they crucified was both Lord and Christ, they were pricked in their heart, and said unto Peter and to the rest of the apostles, "Men and brethren, what shall we do?" (Acts 2:36-42)

Then Peter said unto them, "Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost." (Acts 2:37-38)

And when the first 3,000 believers were gladly baptized in the name of Jesus Christ, what happened next? They continued steadfastly in the apostles doctrine in singleness of heart, praising God and having favour with all the people. So, what exactly is the apostles doctrine? 

Repentance, and baptism in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ. (Acts 2:37-42; Romans 6:1-4) As a consequence of this act of obedience, we receive the gift of the Holy Ghost, whereby we then can become a flow-through for our Lord God and Saviour Jesus Christ, exhibiting signs and wonders that include boldness in preaching the gospel, healing the sick, raising the dead, and casting out devils in Jesus name. (Mark 16:15-18)

"Having therefore, brethren, boldness to enter into the holiest by the blood of Jesus, by a new and living way, which He hath consecrated for us, through the veil, that is to say, His flesh; and [having] an high priest over the house of God. Let us draw near with a true heart in full assurance of faith, having our hearts sprinkled from an evil conscience, and our bodies washed with pure water. Let us hold fast the profession of [our] faith without wavering; (for He [is] faithful that promised;) and let us consider one another to provoke unto love and to good works: not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as the manner of some [is]; but exhorting [one another]: and so much the more, as ye see the day approaching." (Hebrews 10:19-25)

This is the result that comes about as a consequence of believing in Jesus, and obeying the commandments that He -- through the Holy Ghost gave to His disciples. It is within this context that the disciples of Jesus had (and have to this day) a uniform testimony without dissensions or schisms. Because the "beginning" of this current dispensation of grace -- whereby God declared peace and good will to us through His plan of salvation -- started on the day of Pentecost. (Acts 2:36-42)

Not man-made religion that desires to increase its fold, but totally in God and Saviour -- JESUS -- who was declared both Lord and Christ. Not a man portraying to be the vicar of Christ but Jesus Christ Himself -- who is the Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the end, the first and the last. The King of kings and Lord of lords.

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

Therefore, follow His instructions today, as laid out by the apostles. Study His Word to show thyself approved, as a workman does. Stand firm in His wisdom and knowledge, and let His Spirit guide you into all truth. Only then can we enter into that one accord -- whereby we are of one heart and one mind. Joined together in the Holy Ghost, by which we are partakers, clothed in His righteousness.

This is the reason why we (as believers in Jesus by faith) can be "of the same mind one toward another. Mind not high things, but condescend to men of low estate. Be not wise in your own conceits. Recompense to no man evil for evil. Provide things honest in the sight of all men. If it be possible, as much as lies in you, live peaceably with all men."  (Romans 12:16-21)

Apostle Paul wrote, "Be perfect, be of good comfort, be of one mind, live in peace, and the God of love and peace shall be with you ..." (II Corinthians 13:11)

And as I was reminded recently, "as the branch bends, so goes the tree."

Stand in the offering plate.

By Whom We Have Received Grace and Apostleship ... For His Name - Part 1196

"According to the grace of God which is given unto me, as a wise master builder, I have laid the foundation and another builder thereon. But let every man taketh thereon. But let every man take heed how he buildeth thereupon for other foundation can no man lay than that is laid, which is Jesus Christ." (I Corinthians 3:10-11)

We read in Acts 9 about Saul, "yet breathing out threatenings and slaughter against the disciples of the Lord" and how he went to the high priest and desired of him letters to Damascus, so that if he found any disciples along the way, whether they were men or women, he might bring them bound unto Jerusalem. (Acts 9:1-2)

But notice the Lord Jesus had a different plan for Saul, including the changing of his name to Paul. The record does not end there. In Damascus, there was a certain disciple named Ananias, and to him the Lord said in a vision, "Ananias, arise and go into the street which is called Straight, and enquire in the house of Judas for one called Saul, of Tarsus ...." (Acts 9:10-11)

Consider for a moment this situation from the perspective of Ananias. He was a disciple of the Lord, and exactly one of the disciples that Saul was determined to slaughter. I am sure as soon as he heard the Lord speak the name Saul, he began praying, aware of how many disciples of Jesus had met their death because of this one man. Indeed, Stephen, a table servant for the Lord and full of the Holy Ghost was stoned because of Saul. (Acts 7:1-60)

The Lord knowing the thoughts of Ananias, said, " .... for behold, [Saul] prayeth, and hath seen in a vision a man named Ananias coming in, and putting his hand on him that he might receive his sight." (Acts 9:11-12)

Then Ananias answered, "Lord, I have heard by many of this man, how much evil he hath done to Thy saints at Jerusalem, and here he hath authority from the chief priests to bind all that call on Thy name. But the Lord said unto him, "Go thy way, for he is a chosen vessel unto me to bear My name before the Gentiles, and kings, and the children of Israel, for I will shew him, how great things he must suffer for My name's sake." (Acts 9:15-16)

What is His name? What name was Jesus referring to when He said "for My name's sake"? Certainly not father, son and holy spirit as man-made institutionalized religion suggests today, whereby the roman catholic church inserted their own deception by rewriting Jesus' words in Matthew 28:19 knowing that people would not actually read Matthew 28:18-20 to see the error of their ways.

Still, the disciples of Jesus pressed forward in spite of the threatening culture and seemingly endless slaughter of disciples. These disciples knew in their hearts whom they worshiped and were not willing to stop preaching Jesus just because the leaders of the day commanded them not to teach or preach in the Name of Jesus. (Acts 4:15-20)

And the other point worth noting here? That when the disciples were up against the threatenings of the world, they prayed. They lifted up their voice to God with one accord and said, "Lord, Thou art God, which hast made heaven and earth, and the sea, and all that in them is, who by the mouth of Thy servant David hast said, "Why did the heathen rage, and the people imagine vain things? The kings of the earth stood up and the rulers were gathered together against the Lord, and against His Christ. For of a truth against Thy holy child Jesus ...." (Acts 4:24-28)

The disciples prayed and said, "And now Lord, behold their threatenings, and grant unto Thy servants that with all boldness they may speak Thy Word, by stretching forth Thine hand to heal, and that signs and wonders may be done by the Name of Thy holy child Jesus." (Acts 4:29-30)

And when they had prayed, the place was shaken where they were assembled together, and they were all filled with the Holy Ghost and they spake the Word of God with boldness. The multitude of them that believed were of one heart and one soul ... and with great power gave the apostles witness of the resurrection of the Lord Jesus, and great grace was upon them all. (Acts 4:31-33)

It is from this spiritual place -- whereby he recognized Jesus to be Lord over all -- that Ananias was able to press forward in the mission in which Jesus was sending him. Even though the final outcome may be losing his life, Ananias knew who was in control.

Thus, as Ananias stated clearly when he entered into the house, and put his hands on Saul and said, "Brother Saul, the Lord [even] Jesus that appeared unto thee in the way as thou camest, hath sent me that thou mightest receive thy sight, and be filled with the Holy Ghost." (Acts 9:17)

And immediately there fell from Saul's eyes as it had been scales, and he received sight forthwith and arose and was baptized. (Acts 9:18) Moreover, after he received meat, and spent several days with the disciples, Saul/Paul was strengthened, "and straightway, he preached Christ in the synagogues", that Jesus was the promised Messiah, the prophesied Son of God who is now both Lord and Christ. (Acts 2:36; I Timothy 3:16; Isaiah 9:6; John 1:1-18; I John 5:7)

In other words, the foundation in which our salvation is built is indeed Jesus Christ. The same yesterday, today, and forever -- the Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the end, the first and the last. The King of kings and Lord of lords. One God Almighty and His name is Jesus, for He shall save His people from their sins. (Matthew 1:21-23)

We need to clothe ourselves too in the righteousness of Jesus so that each and every step we take is for His glory.

Yes, "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)

If you don't know Jesus today, open your new testament and read about the goodness and mercy of our Lord God and Saviour Jesus the Christ. On the day of Pentecost, the people asked Peter (standing with the eleven other disciples) what must we do to be saved? To obtain eternal life? To experience the peace and joy that is inherent in these "ignorant and unlearned" men that must have been with Jesus to have become who they are. The answer was simple.

"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 2:37-38)

If you can't find a church which believes in baptism in Jesus name, ask a friend to baptize you through immersion in the water (buried with Christ into death that like as Christ was raised up from the dead to walk in newness of life -- Romans 6:1-11) so that you can -- like the disciples - become fully clothed in His righteousness.

As Jesus said, "ALL POWER is given unto Me in heaven and in earth ..." (Matthew 28:18)

The prophet Daniel wrote afore, "I saw in the night visions, and behold, [one] like the Son of man came with the clouds of heaven, and came to the Ancient of days, and they brought him near before him, and there was given Him dominion and glory and a kingdom that all people, nations, and languages should serve Him; His dominion is an everlasting dominion which shall not pass away and His kingdom that which shall not be destroyed." (Daniel 7:13-14)

One Lord, One faith, One baptism. Stand in the offering plate.

Holding Fast the Faithful Word In Season and Out of Season; Reprove, Rebuke, Exhort With All Longsuffering and Doctrine - Part 1195

"Holding 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." (Titus 1:9)

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

"Preach the Word. Be instant in season, out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort with all long suffering and doctrine." (II Timothy 4:2-4)

"For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but after their own lusts shall they heap to themselves teachers, having itching ears ..." (II Timothy 4:3)

"If any man teach otherwise, and consent not to wholesome words, [even] the words of our Lord Jesus Christ, and to the doctrine which is according to godliness ..." (I Timothy 6:3-5)  

As Isaiah recorded, it shall come to pass in the last days that men who have worshiped the work of their own hands -- that which their own fingers have made -- "in that day a man shall cast his idols of silver, and idols of gold, which they made each one for himself to worship, to the moles and to the bats, to go into the clefts of the rocks, and into the tops of the ragged rocks, for fear of the Lord, and for the glory of His majesty, when He arises to shake terribly the earth." (Isaiah 2:8-21)

"In that day the Lord will take away the bravery of tinkling ornaments about their feet [finery, jingling anklets], and their cauls [scarves or headbands] and their round tires like the moon [crescents], the chains [pendants]and the bracelets and the mufflers [veils]. The bonnets [headdresses] and the ornaments of the legs [perfume boxes] and the headbands, and the tablets [charms or amulets]. The rings and nose jewels, the unchangeable suits of apparel [festal apparel], and the mantes, and the wimples [outer garments] and the crisping pins [purses]. the glasses [mirrors] and the fine linen [turbans] and the vails [robes]. And it shall come to pass that instead of sweet smell there shall be stink; and instead of a girdle [sash] a rent [rope]; and instead of well set hair baldness, and instead of a stomacher [rich robe]  a girding of sack cloth and burning [branding scar] instead of beauty. Thy men shall fall by the sword and thy mighty in the war, and her gates shall lament and mourn and she being desolate shall sit upon the ground." (Isaiah 3:18-26)

When will this happen? According to the scriptures, the Lord is not slack concerning His promise. He will return one day to gather His bride for the wedding feast. However, for now, suffice knowing that before Jesus returns, the devil will be (and is) running to and fro, attempting to deceive and devour whomever it can. It is for this reason that studying His Word -- the new testament that was written as a consequence of our Lord God and Saviour's precious blood shed on the cross for you and I -- needs to be hid in our hearts.

Believers must also "know that no prophecy of the scripture is of any private interpretation" so that wolves in sheep's clothing pretending that the Lord spoke directly to them with a new message -- one that does not align with the scriptures -- can rightly be called into account. (II Peter 1:20-21)

"But there were false prophets among the people, even as there shall be false prophets among you, who privily shall bring in damnable heresies, even denying the Lord that bought them, and bring upon themselves swift destruction. And many shall follow their pernicious ways; by reason of whom the way of truth shall be evil spoken of .. and through covetousness shall they with feigned words, make merchandise of you whose judgement now of a long time lingers not, and their damnation slumbers not." (II Peter 2:1-6)

Likewise, we must also recognize that if any man teach otherwise and consent not to wholesome words, even the words of our Lord Jesus Christ, teaching contrary to the apostles doctrine in which Jesus through the Holy Ghost commanded the apostles to write, we need to hold fast the form of sound words, which we have heard in the scriptures, and of the faith and love which is in Christ Jesus. (II Timothy 1:13; I Timothy 6:3)

This is why we as believers in Jesus Christ by faith are instructed to believe not every spirit, but rather to try the spirits whether they are of God, because many false prophets are gone out into the world. (I John 4:1)

And, in discerning the message and/or prophecy, we must earnestly contend for the faith which was once delivered unto the saints. (Jude 1:3)

That is the scriptures -- the one and only Word of God.

"Speak thou the things which become sound doctrine, that the aged men be sober, grave, temperate, sound in faith, in charity, in patience. The aged women likewise, that they be in behaviour as becomes 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.

Young men likewise exhort to be sober minded. 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.

Exhort servants to be obedient unto their own masters, and to please them well in all things; not answering again; not purloining, but shewing 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.

These things speak, and exhort, and rebuke with all authority. Let no man despise thee." (Titus 2:1-15)

And remember that the King of kings and Lord of lords is the Way, the Truth and the Life. So preach the Word. Be instant in season, out of season; reprove, rebuke, and exhort with all long suffering and doctrine." (II Timothy 4:2-4)

Stand in the offering plate.

Sadly, Under Falsehood We Have Hid Ourselves - Part 1194

"But they also have erred through wine, and through strong drink are out of the way, the priest and the prophet have erred through strong drink, they are swallowed up of wine, they are out of the way through strong drink, they err in vision, they stumble in judgement -- for all tables are full of vomit and filthiness so that there is no more place clean.

Whom shall He teach knowledge? And whom shall He make to understand doctrine? Them that are weaned from the milk and drawn from the breasts ... for precept must be upon precept, precept upon precept, line upon line, line upon line; here a little and there a little, for with stammering lips and another tongue will He speak to this people." (Isaiah 28:7-11)

There are those within today's man-made religious community that suggest the teaching of doctrine is not essential to the core of the gospel message. In fact, many within these institutional circles are not interested in the whole truth that only comes from the Word of God. Why? Because as Isaiah wrote, faithfully studying His Word as doth a workman, discerning from the Word His truths requires studying precept upon precept and line upon line.

In other words,  it takes time to hang around with Jesus. The benefit however is that the more we study His Word, the more our Lord God and Savior will entrust to His people. Jesus 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)

Jesus said, "I am the bread of life. He that comes to Me shall never hunger, and he that believeth on Me shall never thirst." (John 6:35) This is why as believers in Jesus Christ by faith, we are instructed to "study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that need not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the Word of truth." (II Timothy 2:15)

"All scripture [is] given by inspiration of God, and [is] profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness -- that the man of God may be perfect, thoroughly furnished unto all good works." (II Timothy 3:16-17)

By studying His Word, we begin to personally know the Lord God who said, "Come now, and let us reason together, though your sins be as scarlet, they shall be as white as snow, though they be red like crimson, they shall be as wool. If ye shall be willing and obedient, ye shall eat the good of the land." (Isaiah 1:18)

But our learning from His Word should not stop with the act of repentance. Why? Because we are no longer under the teachings of John (the baptist) that was established for the outward cleaning before Jesus shed His precious blood on the cross. (For those who may not know, John the baptist was a forerunner to the coming of the Messiah -- the voice of one crying in the wilderness, prepare ye the way of the Lord). 

We are no longer under the covenant of Law, which serves as a schoolmaster that informs us of our need for Jesus in our life. Thus, as a consequence of Jesus' death and resurrection, we live in what is called the dispensation of grace,  the new testament whereby the Lord God Almighty has declared peace and good will to all men. (Luke 2:14) 

"And they shall call His name JESUS, for He will save His people from their sin." (Matthew 1:21-23)

"And when He was come nigh, even now at the descent of the mount of Olives, the whole multitude of the disciples began to rejoice and praise God with a loud voice for all the mighty works that they had seen, saying, "Blessed be the King that cometh in the Name of the Lord. Peace in heaven and glory in the highest." (Luke 19:37-38)

However, in that day which can be likened to the times and seasons in which we live now, some of the Pharisees who were among the multitude said, "Master, rebuke Thy disciples." What was Jesus' response? "I tell you that, if these should hold their peace, the stones would immediately cry out." (Luke 19:40)

Hardly taught in churches, but certainly worthy of mention here, we note that Jesus beheld the city and wept over it, saying, "If thou hadst known, even thou, at least in this thy day, the things which belong unto thy peace, but are now hid from thine eyes, for the days shall come upon thee that thine enemies shall cast a trench about thee and compass thee around and keep thee in on every side, and shall lay thee even with the ground, and thy children within thee,, and they shall not leave in thee one stone upon another, because thou knewest not the time of Thy visitation." (Luke 19:37-48) 

The Messiah in which these searched, stood right there in front of them, and yet, they did not know who He was. "Today, lest any of you be hardened through the deceitfulness of sin, for we are made partakers of Christ, if we hold the beginning of our confidence, steadfast unto the end." (Hebrews 3:13-14)

"For unto us was the gospel preached, as well as unto them, but the Word preached did not profit them, not being mixed with faith in them that heard ... seeing therefore it remaineth that some must enter therein and they to whom it was first preached entered not in because of unbelief." (Hebrews 4:2-6)

So much wisdom and understanding and yet we settle for the crumbs that are thrown from the table. It's time for this to change. We need to press into Jesus and become "them that are weaned from the milk and drawn from the breasts ... for with stammering lips and another tongue will He speak to this people." (Isaiah 28:7-11)

Instead of stopping short of the full blessing, we need to understand that the day of Pentecost (in which the first 3,000 were saved) holds the instructions that we need to be inherit eternal life. 

Therein, Peter said, "Therefore, let all the house of Israel know assuredly, that God hath made that same Jesus, whom ye have crucified, both Lord and Christ." (Acts 2:36)

This is why they were pricked in their hearts, to the point whereby they asked Peter, standing with the eleven, "Men and brethren, what shall we do?" Then Peter said unto them, "Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost. For the promise is unto you, and to your children, and to all that are afar off, [even] as many as the Lord our God shall call. 

As confirmed in the vision of Isaiah the son of Amoz, the Lord refers specifically to the "small remnant that the Lord of hosts has remaining" who would preach the Word of the Lord in its entirety. Not as the religious system does, inserting revised scriptures or writing out statements of faith, or religious belief systems that totally ignore any doctrine that refers specifically to the power and authority that is found in the Name of Jesus.

"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)

"For there is one God and one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus who gave Himself a ransom for all, to be testified in due time." (I Timothy 2:5-6)

"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 things are by the law purged with blood, and without shedding of blood is no remission. 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 of the true) but into heaven itself, now to appear in the presence of God for us ... 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 9:18-28)

"Now unto Him that is able to do exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that worketh in us, unto Him be glory in the church by Christ Jesus throughout all ages, world without end, amen." (Ephesians 3:20-21)

Press into our Lord God and Saviour Jesus the Christ today. Discover His goodness and grace that extends beyond all human understanding. Be buried with Christ in water baptism which cleanses the inside when we are baptized in the name of Jesus. Study His Word to show thyself approved so that we can shine as a city on a hill for those who are lost. All the while, refuse to hide yourself under the falsehood and blindness of man-made institutions that promote a gospel that is only remotely similar to the gospel of our Lord God and Saviour, Jesus the Christ.

Stand in the offering plate. 

At the Name of Jesus Every Tongue Should Confess that Jesus Christ is Lord - Part 1193

"Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus, who being in the form of God thought it not robbery to be equal with God but made Himself of no reputation, and took upon Him the form of a servant, and was made in the likeness of men; and being found in fashion as a man, He humbled Himself, and became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross.

Wherefore God also hath highly exalted Him and given Him a name which is above every name -- that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of things in heaven, and things in earth, and things under the earth, and that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord to the glory of God the Father." (Philippians 2:5-11)

Within these six verses, Paul the apostle is asking us to obey, as he and the other disciples have obeyed, and to work out our own salvation with fear and trembling. Why? Because it is God who works within us both to will and to do His good pleasure (without murmurings and disputings) so that we may be blameless and harmless, the sons and daughters of the Most High King, without rebuke in the midst of a crooked and perverse nation, among whom ye shine as lights in the world.

As lights holding forth the Word of life so that we may rejoice in the day of Christ. 

Jesus said, "Come unto Me all ye that labour and are heavy laden and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you and learn of Me, for I am meek and lowly in heart; and ye shall find rest for your souls, for My yoke is easy and My burden is light." (Matthew 11:28-30)

Moreover, Jesus told us that He was the bread of life. "He that cometh to Me shall never hunger and He that believeth on Me shall never thirst ... Verily, verily, I say unto you  -- He that believeth on Me hath everlasting life. I am the bread of life ... I am the living bread which came down from heaven. If any man eat of this bread, he shall live forever, and the bread that I will give is My flesh, which I will give for the life of the world." (John 6:35-51)

But wait. Jesus had just fed the five thousand with five barley loaves and two fishes. When everyone had finished eating, there were twelve baskets containing the fragments of the loaves left over. In fact, it must have been satisfying because these same people came looking for Jesus and His disciples the next day. When they could not find Jesus, these took shipping and came to Capernaum seeking Him. 

When they found Jesus, He told them that they were looking for Him, not because of the miracles, "but because ye did eat of the loaves and were filled." (John 6:26) 

In other words, these people were not labouring for the meat which endureth forever unto everlasting life, "which the Son of man shall give unto you; for Him hath God the Father sealed." (John 6:27)

These were not interested in letting the mind of Christ dwell in them. Rather, they only followed Jesus for the benefits that He could give them, and the miracles. Kind of like those who stood on the banks when John the baptist was baptizing people unto repentance. These wanted the benefits but were not willing to get wet.

Sadly, do we not see the same thing happening today within our religious institutions? 

Even when the Word states that salvation includes repentance and being baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus for the remission of sins, how many will stop and actually obey? (Acts 2:37-42) 

Instead, too many stand on the river shores in case they get wet. Too many stand on the river bank in case they may have to step away from man-made religious institutions (whereby the traditions of men dominate their respective statements of faith), and not the Word of God which transcends all wisdom and knowledge.

Too many fail to step away from the life that Jesus has promised and the purposes which He has instilled in their heart while still in their mother's womb - "that every one which seeth the Son and believeth on Him may have everlasting life, and I will raise him up at the last day." (John 6:40)

As Jesus said unto those who looked to Him for another meal -- "But I said unto you -- that ye also have seen Me and believe not." (John 6:36)

Step out by faith and get to know the goodness and mercy of our Lord God and Saviour Jesus the Christ today. Seek the living bread which came down from heaven that satisfies beyond measure. Study His Word so that the mind of Christ can be in you, so that you can shine too as lights in a very dark world. Hold fast to the apostles doctrine and don't let the worldly spirit deceive you from achieving the life that was intended for you from the very beginning.

Yes, find a pond or a river or a bathtub if necessary and be water baptized (buried) in the precious name of Jesus, for He is that bread of life who is inviting us -- as the bride of Christ -- to the wedding feast. The Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the end, the first and the last. (Revelation 22:13)

Jesus said, "And, behold, I come quickly and My reward is with Me, to give every man according as his work shall be." (Revelation 22:12)

This is why we are instructed to work out our salvation with fear and trembling. So much to do, and yet, so little time. 

Stand in the offering plate.