Jesus answered unto Pilate saying, "Thou couldest have no power at all against Me except it were given thee from above." (John 19:11)
There is an important message in the above scripture. Within the sentencing of Jesus, the Lord God who was to become our Saviour had ordered in advance the course of events that would transpire. And He did this in order that we might understand and see the true character and state of men's hearts. In fact, Almighty God has orchestrated the minutes leading up to Jesus being crucified on a cross so that all the prophecies of the old covenant -- written and contained in the Old Testament -- that foretold of the coming of the Christ would be fulfilled.
Specifically, herein, the officers and band of men from the chief priests and Pharisees wanted Jesus dead. So they brought Him to Pilate. These people knew that Pilate was a magistrate and as such, free to make final life and death decisions concerning those brought in front of him. The accusers were also aware that Pilate's power and authority, as constituted by law, is ultimately given by Almighty God.
But as Jesus plainly points out, Pilate really had no authority to crucify Jesus. No power to sentence Jesus to death. That is, unless the decision for Jesus to be crucified had already been decided in heaven. The plan of salvation already drawn by our heavenly Father in advance. As we learn from the scriptures, this was the case. God knew from the beginning that He would have to become flesh and shed His precious blood on a cross so that we could be saved.
"In the beginning was the Word and the Word was with God and the Word was God ... and the Word became flesh." (John 1:1-14) "Believest thou not that I am in the Father and the Father in Me? The words that I speak not of Myself but the Father that dwelleth in Me, He doeth the works. Believe Me that I AM in the Father and the Father in Me." (John 14:10-11)
"Now they have known that all things whatsoever Thou hast given Me are of Thee." (John 17:1-11) The hour had come but not as the chief priests and Pharisees had supposed. Nevertheless, God knew -- because it was the same Lord God who created the world who later became our Saviour. This is why Jesus said, "I have glorified Thee on the earth; I have finished the work which thou gavest Me to do." (John 17:4)
Indeed, Jesus could have called legions of angels to prevent His death. But He didn't. Why? Because He knew His kingdom was not of this world. Jesus said, "If My kingdom were of this world, then would My servants fight, that I should not be delivered to the Jews; but now is My kingdom not from hence."
Jesus continued, saying, "To this end was I born, and for this cause came I unto the world, that I should bear witness unto the truth. Every one that is of the truth, heareth My voice." (John 18:37)
In other words, Pilate may have thought that he had the power to crucify or release Jesus. But as Jesus answered to Pilate, "Thou couldest have no power at all against Me, except it were given thee from above. Therefore, He that delivered Me unto thee hath the greater sin." It is no wonder Pilate sought to release Jesus. Pilate even said unto the Jews, "Behold your King!" And wrote on the cross, "JESUS OF NAZARETH, KING OF THE JEWS." (John 19:19)
But still the Jews said "Away with Him. Away with Him. Crucify Him."
Because they never knew that Jesus was the prophesied Christ. The Lord coming forth as a mighty man. (Isaiah 42:13) The Prince of peace. The Alpha and Omega. The first and the last. The beginning and the ending. He was in fact God becoming our Saviour. (Titus 3:4-7)
"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." (John 1:10-11)
However, through it all, Jesus knew that in His death, salvation would now be accomplished. The plan of salvation that had been decided before the foundation of the earth was formed was now fulfilled. Our Lord God and Creator -- our heavenly Father --who loved us from the beginning had now become our Saviour. "It is finished."
"Therefore let all the house of Israel know assuredly, that God hath made this same Jesus whom ye have crucified is both Lord and Christ." (Acts 2:36) Peace be unto you.
Stand in the offering plate.
All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness
Monday, September 26, 2016
The Gospel Displayed Is That After His Love And Kindness, God Become Our Saviour -- Part 1491
"For though ye have ten thousand instructors in Christ, yet have ye not many fathers, for in Christ Jesus I have begotten you through the gospel ... for the Kingdom of God is not in word, but in power." (I Corinthians 4:15)
Peter (standing with the eleven) on the day of Pentecost prompts us to continue steadfastly in the apostle's doctrine. (Acts 2:42) Why? Because the apostles' doctrine (according to His Word) is sound doctrine. "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)
Who are the gainsayers? Certain men crept in unawares, who were before of old ordained to this condemnation, ungodly men, turning the grace of our God into lasciviousness, and denying the only Lord God and our Lord Jesus Christ. Jude, the servant of Jesus Christ and brother of James to them that are sanctified by God the Father and preserved in Jesus Christ, (and called) explains it this way.
"Woe unto them! for they have gone in the way of Cain, and ran greedily after the error of Balaam for reward, and perished in the gainsaying of Core. These are spots in your feasts of charity, when they feast with you, feeding themselves without fear; clouds [they] are without water, carried about of winds; trees whose fruit withers, without fruit, twice dead, plucked up by the roots, raging waves of the sea, foaming out their own shame; wandering stars, to whom is reserved the blackness of darkness for ever." (Jude 1:11)
This is why we who believe in Jesus by faith, and have been clothed in His righteousness in water baptism, desire in our hearts to only speak the things which become sound doctrine. (Titus 2:1) It also explains why we preach the Word, instant both in season and out of season, reproving, rebuking, exhorting with all long suffering and doctrine. Because there will be a time (and we are seeing this phenomenon emerging more and more) where they will not endure sound doctrine, but after their own lusts shall they heap to themselves teachers, having itching ears. (II Timothy 4:3)
Nevertheless, we are instructed to consent not to wholesome words when those desire to preach another gospel, but the words of our Lord Jesus Christ and to the doctrine which is according to godliness. (I Timothy 6:3-5)
Knowing this -- that "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)
There is no place for preaching "another" gospel beyond what is already penned within the written Word. Instead we are to hold fast the form of sound words, "which thou hast heard of me, in faith and love which is in Christ Jesus." (II Timothy 1:13)
So, what constitutes godliness? Well we know what is not godliness. That is, "having a form of godliness but denying the power thereof" to which we are instructed -- "from such turn away!" (II Timothy 3:5) And this message does not change throughout the gospel. But there is a message that is triumphant, and that is the mystery of godliness, that has been (and is) revealed to those believers who continue to seek Jesus through faith. Those who, as Jesus said, "abide in Me." (John 15:7)
"And without controversy, great is the mystery of godliness: God was manifest in the flesh, justified in the Spirit, seen of angels, preached unto the Gentiles, believed on in the world, received up into glory." (I Timothy 3:16)
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)
This is why we are to earnestly contend for the faith which was once delivered unto the saints. (Jude 1:3) And this is also why we study to show ourselves approved unto God, a workman that need not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the Word of truth. (II Timothy 2:15)
The Word of truth?
1. The principle of the doctrine of Christ: (Hebrews 6:1) God was in Christ reconciling the world unto Himself. God Himself became our Saviour.
"But after the kindness and love of God our Saviour toward man appeared ... not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to His mercy He saved us, by the washing of regeneration and renewing of the Holy Ghost, which He shed on us abundantly through Jesus Christ our Saviour, that being justified by His grace, we should be made heirs according to the hope of eternal life." (Titus 3:4-7)
2. The foundation of repentance from dead works, and of faith toward God: (Hebrews 6:1)
Without the shedding of blood, there was to be no remission of sin. The only remedial atoning blood was that holy undefiled blood of the Holy Ghost that was sacrificed freely, and yet, with agonizing torture, administered by the hands of fallen, unbelieving and religious fanatics. In their ignorance, and intent on crucifying the Lord of glory, the judicial system, at the conclusion of their proceeding had issued a verdict that stated, "I find no fault in Him." And yet, His blood was still shed for you and I. This same Jesus whom ye have crucified is both Lord and Christ. Still, for those who believe in the Name of Jesus and trusts in Thy Word (which is truth) -- the surety of a better testament, we can know from whence comes our salvation. (Hebrews 7:22; Hebrews 9:15-18; John 17:17; Psalm 119:105)
"For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God! Not of works lest any man boast." (Ephesians 2:8-9)
Then Peter (standing with the eleven on the day of Pentecost) 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 2:38)
"What shall we say then? Shall we continue in sin, that grace may abound? God forbid. How shall we, that are dead to sin, live any longer therein? Know ye not, that so many of us as were baptized into Jesus Christ were baptized into His death? 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.
Peter (standing with the eleven) on the day of Pentecost prompts us to continue steadfastly in the apostle's doctrine. (Acts 2:42) Why? Because the apostles' doctrine (according to His Word) is sound doctrine. "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)
Who are the gainsayers? Certain men crept in unawares, who were before of old ordained to this condemnation, ungodly men, turning the grace of our God into lasciviousness, and denying the only Lord God and our Lord Jesus Christ. Jude, the servant of Jesus Christ and brother of James to them that are sanctified by God the Father and preserved in Jesus Christ, (and called) explains it this way.
"Woe unto them! for they have gone in the way of Cain, and ran greedily after the error of Balaam for reward, and perished in the gainsaying of Core. These are spots in your feasts of charity, when they feast with you, feeding themselves without fear; clouds [they] are without water, carried about of winds; trees whose fruit withers, without fruit, twice dead, plucked up by the roots, raging waves of the sea, foaming out their own shame; wandering stars, to whom is reserved the blackness of darkness for ever." (Jude 1:11)
This is why we who believe in Jesus by faith, and have been clothed in His righteousness in water baptism, desire in our hearts to only speak the things which become sound doctrine. (Titus 2:1) It also explains why we preach the Word, instant both in season and out of season, reproving, rebuking, exhorting with all long suffering and doctrine. Because there will be a time (and we are seeing this phenomenon emerging more and more) where they will not endure sound doctrine, but after their own lusts shall they heap to themselves teachers, having itching ears. (II Timothy 4:3)
Nevertheless, we are instructed to consent not to wholesome words when those desire to preach another gospel, but the words of our Lord Jesus Christ and to the doctrine which is according to godliness. (I Timothy 6:3-5)
Knowing this -- that "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)
There is no place for preaching "another" gospel beyond what is already penned within the written Word. Instead we are to hold fast the form of sound words, "which thou hast heard of me, in faith and love which is in Christ Jesus." (II Timothy 1:13)
So, what constitutes godliness? Well we know what is not godliness. That is, "having a form of godliness but denying the power thereof" to which we are instructed -- "from such turn away!" (II Timothy 3:5) And this message does not change throughout the gospel. But there is a message that is triumphant, and that is the mystery of godliness, that has been (and is) revealed to those believers who continue to seek Jesus through faith. Those who, as Jesus said, "abide in Me." (John 15:7)
"And without controversy, great is the mystery of godliness: God was manifest in the flesh, justified in the Spirit, seen of angels, preached unto the Gentiles, believed on in the world, received up into glory." (I Timothy 3:16)
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)
This is why we are to earnestly contend for the faith which was once delivered unto the saints. (Jude 1:3) And this is also why we study to show ourselves approved unto God, a workman that need not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the Word of truth. (II Timothy 2:15)
The Word of truth?
1. The principle of the doctrine of Christ: (Hebrews 6:1) God was in Christ reconciling the world unto Himself. God Himself became our Saviour.
"But after the kindness and love of God our Saviour toward man appeared ... not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to His mercy He saved us, by the washing of regeneration and renewing of the Holy Ghost, which He shed on us abundantly through Jesus Christ our Saviour, that being justified by His grace, we should be made heirs according to the hope of eternal life." (Titus 3:4-7)
2. The foundation of repentance from dead works, and of faith toward God: (Hebrews 6:1)
Without the shedding of blood, there was to be no remission of sin. The only remedial atoning blood was that holy undefiled blood of the Holy Ghost that was sacrificed freely, and yet, with agonizing torture, administered by the hands of fallen, unbelieving and religious fanatics. In their ignorance, and intent on crucifying the Lord of glory, the judicial system, at the conclusion of their proceeding had issued a verdict that stated, "I find no fault in Him." And yet, His blood was still shed for you and I. This same Jesus whom ye have crucified is both Lord and Christ. Still, for those who believe in the Name of Jesus and trusts in Thy Word (which is truth) -- the surety of a better testament, we can know from whence comes our salvation. (Hebrews 7:22; Hebrews 9:15-18; John 17:17; Psalm 119:105)
"For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God! Not of works lest any man boast." (Ephesians 2:8-9)
Then Peter (standing with the eleven on the day of Pentecost) 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 2:38)
"What shall we say then? Shall we continue in sin, that grace may abound? God forbid. How shall we, that are dead to sin, live any longer therein? Know ye not, that so many of us as were baptized into Jesus Christ were baptized into His death? 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.
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 dieth no more. Death hath no more dominion over Him.
For in that He died, He died unto sin once: but in that He liveth, He liveth unto God. Likewise, reckon ye also yourselves to be dead indeed unto sin, but alive unto God through Jesus Christ our Lord. Let not sin therefore reign in your mortal body, that ye should obey it in the lusts thereof. Neither yield ye your members [as] instruments of unrighteousness unto sin: but yield yourselves unto God, as those that are alive from the dead, and your members [as] instruments of righteousness unto God.
For sin shall not have dominion over you: for ye are not under the law, but under grace. What then? shall we sin, because we are not under the law, but under grace? God forbid. Know ye not, that to whom ye yield yourselves servants to obey, his servants ye are to whom ye obey; whether of sin unto death, or of obedience unto righteousness? But God be thanked, that ye WERE the servants of sin, but ye have obeyed from the heart that form of doctrine which was delivered you. Being then made free from sin, ye became the servants of righteousness.
I speak after the manner of men because of the infirmity of your flesh: for as ye have yielded your members servants to uncleanness and to iniquity unto iniquity; even so now yield your members servants to righteousness unto holiness. For when ye were the servants of sin, ye were free from righteousness. What fruit had ye then in those things whereof ye are now ashamed? for the end of those things [is] death. But now being made free from sin, and become servants to God, ye have your fruit unto holiness, and the end everlasting life. For the wages of sin [is] death; but the gift of God [is] eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord." (Romans 6:1-23)
"Wherefore, (as the Holy Ghost saith, "To day if ye will hear His voice ..." (Hebrews 3:7)
3. Of the doctrine of baptisms: (Hebrews 6:2)
Water baptism in the Name of the Lord Jesus -- not the putting away of the filth of the flesh but the answer of a good conscience toward God by the resurrection of Jesus Christ / buried with Him in baptism, wherein also ye are risen with Him through the faith of the operation of God / justified in the Name of the Lord Jesus (Acts 2:36-47; I Peter 3:21; Matthew 3:1-16; Acts 22:16; Mark 16:16; Romans 6:3-4; John 3:5; Acts 10:44-48; Galatians 3:27; Acts 8:15, 36-39; Matthew 28:18-20; Colossians 2:12; I Corinthians 6:11; Acts 19:2)
"Then remembered I the Word of the Lord, how that He said, John indeed baptized with water; but ye shall be baptized with the Holy Ghost." (Acts 11:16)
"Whereof the Holy Ghost also is a witness to us: for after that He had said before, "This is the covenant that I will make with them after those days," saith the Lord, "I will put My laws into their hearts, and in their minds will I write them; and their sins and iniquities will I remember no more." (Hebrews 10:15-17)
4. Of laying on of hands: (Hebrews 6:2)
"Then laid they their hands on them, and they received the Holy Ghost." (Acts 8:17)
"Whom they set before the apostles: and when they had prayed, they laid their hands on them." (Acts 6:6)
"And when Paul had laid his hands upon them, the Holy Ghost came on them: and they spake with tongues, and prophesied." (Acts 19:6)
5. Of resurrection of the dead: (Hebrews 6:2)
"But if there be no resurrection of the dead, then is Christ not risen ... Now if Christ be preached that He rose from the dead, how say some among you that there is no resurrection of the dead? ... For since by man came death, by man came also the resurrection of the dead." (I Corinthians 15:12-21)
"And have hope toward God, which they themselves also allow, that there shall be a resurrection of the dead, both of the just and unjust." (Acts 24:15)
Jesus said unto her, "I am the resurrection, and the life: he that believes in Me, though he were dead, yet shall he live ..." (John 11:25)
"But as touching the resurrection of the dead, have ye not read that which was spoken unto you by God, saying, "I Am the God of Abraham, and the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob? God is not the God of the dead, but of the living." (Matthew 22:31)
"And declared to be the Son of God with power, according to the Spirit of holiness, by the resurrection from the dead ..." (Romans 1:4)
"Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, which according to His abundant mercy hath begotten us again unto a lively hope by the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead ..." (I Peter 1:3)
"But as touching the resurrection of the dead, have ye not read that which was spoken unto you by God, saying, "I Am the God of Abraham, and the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob? God is not the God of the dead, but of the living." (Matthew 22:31)
"And declared to be the Son of God with power, according to the Spirit of holiness, by the resurrection from the dead ..." (Romans 1:4)
"Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, which according to His abundant mercy hath begotten us again unto a lively hope by the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead ..." (I Peter 1:3)
6. And of eternal judgment: (Hebrews 6:2)
"These things have I written unto you that believe on the Name of the Son of God; that ye may know that ye have eternal life, and that ye may believe on the Name of the Son of God." (I John 5:13)
"That whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but have eternal life." (John 3:15)
"And this is the promise that He hath promised us, even eternal life." (I John 2:25)
"And being made perfect, He became the Author of eternal salvation unto all them that obey Him;" (Hebrews 5:9)
"For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord." (Romans 6:23)
"Search the scriptures; for in them ye think ye have eternal life: and they are they which testify of Me." (John 5:39)
This is our foundation. Please note that there are many other scriptures that could have been included here but I believe this is sufficient to start you on your way to fulfilling the purpose that the Lord wrote in your heart whilst ye were still in your mother's womb. Be diligent in your study of His Word. Continue steadfastly in the apostles' doctrine. (Acts 2:36-47) Most of all to them, who by patient continuance in well doing seek for glory and honour and immortality? There is eternal life. (Romans 2:7)
In Jesus! The King of kings and Lord of lords. Alpha and Omega, the first and the last, the beginning and the ending. (Revelation 1:8, 11) He is still calling for you to come to the wedding feast. And then stand fast in the liberty wherewith is Christ. (Galatians 5:1)
Stand fast in the offering plate.
Friday, September 23, 2016
Be Not Conformed To This World But Be Ye Transformed By The Renewing Of Your Mind, That Ye May Prove What Is That Good, And Acceptable, And Perfect Will of God - Part 1490
“And that ye put on the new man, which after God is created
in righteousness and true holiness … and grieve not the holy Spirit of God,
whereby ye are sealed unto the day of redemption.” (Ephesians 4:20-30)
When we learn Christ, having heard Him and having been
taught by Him (as the truth is in Jesus) we desire to put off the former conversation
which consisted in our old man, preferring instead to be renewed in the spirit
of our mind and our hearts. Like the apostles who were told to tarry in
Jerusalem until the power from on high had come, we also are to press into
Jesus so that He can reveal Himself to us through His Word. (Acts 2:1-3)
We see this in apostle Paul’s writings to the saints which
are at Ephesus, and to the faithful in Christ Jesus. Note that Paul begins by
extending grace to you and I, and peace from God our Father, the Lord Jesus
Christ. (Ephesians 1:2) And then he writes:
“Blessed the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who
hath blessed us with all spiritual blessings in heavenly in Christ, according
as He hath chosen us in Him before the foundation of the world, that we should
be holy and without blame before Him in love, having predestinated us unto the
adoption of children by Jesus Christ to Himself, according to the good pleasure
of His will, to the praise of the glory of His grace wherein He hath made us
accepted in the beloved.” (Ephesians 1:1-5)
The same God who created us in the beginning purposed for us
to become His bride. He is inviting us to the most elaborate wedding feast,
wherein we can give praise and glory to our Lord God and Saviour Jesus the
Christ.
“Wherein He hath made us accepted in the beloved. In whom we
have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of sins, according to the
riches of His grace, wherein He hath abounded toward us in all wisdom and
prudence, having made known unto us the mystery of His will, according to His
good pleasure … which He hath purposed in Himself.” (Ephesians 1:1-10)
The mystery? That He Himself who knew no sin loved His
beloved creation so much that in these last times, He would prepare Himself a
body so that He could become the perfect sacrifice. His love for us superseded
the options, so that He could gather together a people who are the praise of
His glory, who trust in His promised/prophesied Christ.
God manifest in the flesh. (I Timothy 3:16) 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. (John 1:10-11)
His purpose? That in the dispensation of the fullness of
times, He might gather together in one all things in Christ, both which are in
heaven and which are on earth – in Him – the same Him whom also we have
obtained an inheritance being predestinated according to the purpose of Him who
works all things after the counsel of His own will, that we should be to the
praise of His glory, who first trusted in Christ.
We heard the Word of truth. We responded to the gospel of
our salvation. And when we repent and are baptized in the precious Name of the
Lord Jesus, as were the first 3,000 souls received into the new testament church
on the day of Pentecost, we are sealed with that holy Spirit of promise – His Spirit
– the Holy Ghost whereby the Spirit of Jesus lives within.
As a consequence, we are filled with His love and peace that
surpasses all human understanding. We are victorious because we already know from
whence comes our salvation, and understand that because of His love and
kindness, the Lord of glory Himself came forth as a mighty man. (Isaiah 42:13)
"Therefore, the Lord Himself shall give you a sign. Behold,
a virgin shall conceive and bear a son, and shall call His Name Immanuel
[Emmanuel meaning God with us!]” (Isaiah 7:14; Matthew 1:21-23; Isaiah 9:6; Luke
1:31-35; Isaiah 8:8-10; Isaiah 6:8; Titus 3:4-7)
God in Christ. God willingly became our Saviour. And this is why we as
believers in Jesus Christ humbly approach the throne of God, rejoicing evermore,
knowing in our hearts that because of the precious blood of Jesus, we can be
renewed, transformed, sanctified by His Word, putting on the new man, which
after God is created in righteousness and true holiness.
This is why we pray without ceasing with thankful hearts, proving
what is good and acceptable and the perfect will of God. And that we, because
of His love and grace and mercy for His beloved creation -- you and I -- in these last times can stand firmly in the offering plate, offering our hearts and souls and minds to the King of kings and Lord of lords. His Name is Jesus.
If you have not accepted Jesus into your heart, know that today is the promised day of salvation. Repent of your sins, believing in the Name of Jesus and His righteousness by faith. In your heart, believe that Jesus is both Lord and Christ. (Acts 2:36; Titus 3:4-7) Be water baptized by immersion in the Name of the Lord Jesus Christ. (Acts 2:36-38) And let the Lord of glory fill your heart and mind and inner being with His Spirit so that your cup runneth with joy too. And be blessed according to the measure of your faith, wherein we can stand fast in the liberty wherein is Christ. (Galatians 5:1)
Wednesday, September 21, 2016
Jesus said, "And Ye Will Not Come To Me, That Ye Might Have Life … I Am Come In My Father’s Name!" - Part 1489
Who Art Thou, Lord?
This question was often asked of Jesus. One particular example stands out. Jesus was speaking in the treasury as He taught in the temple. Up until now, no man had laid hands upon Him because His hour had not yet come. The Pharisees had accused Jesus, saying that His record was not true. Jesus answered them and said, “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.” (John 8:12-14)
Remember, that Jesus had already spoke against the scribes and Pharisees when they wanted to convict the woman caught in adultery. Then, Jesus clarified His identity to them. He 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)
Jesus continued to state His position. “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 bears witness of Myself, and the Father that sent Me bears witness of Me.
But this response was not sufficient for those in positions of authority, because they went on to ask, “Where is Thy Father?” Jesus answered and said unto them, “Ye neither know Me nor My Father. If ye had known Me, ye should have known My Father also.” (John 8:16-20)
Interesting response. “If ye had known Me, ye should have known My Father also.” (John 8:19) In other words, as Jesus later reveals, “I and My Father are One.” (John 10:30)
We see this same revelation unfolding throughout the gospel of John. The mystery that was hid in the bosom of the Father until this time. That is, the Lord coming forth as a mighty man. (Isaiah 42:13; Isaiah 9:6) God manifest in the flesh. (I Timothy 3:16) After His love and kindness, God became our Saviour. (Titus 3:4-7) “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.” (John 1:10-11)
So, in response to the question “who art Thou, Lord?” we find that Jesus had lots to say. First, we know that all things were made by Him and without Him was not anything made that was made. (John 1:4)
We know that this same Word that was in the beginning with God and was God was made flesh and dwelt among us and we beheld His glory – the glory of the only begotten of the Father, full of grace and truth. (John 1:1-4, 14, 17) This is why we must believe in His Name – the precious Name of Jesus – for He alone shall save us from our sins. Emmanuel, meaning “God with us.” (Matthew 1:21-23)
“For God sent not His Son into the world to condemn the world but that the world through Him might be saved. He that believes on Him is not condemned, but he that believes not is condemned already because he hath not believed in the “Name” of the only begotten Son of God.” (John 3:17)
Sadly, this is the juncture wherein the religious culture is responsible for creating confusion, and as a consequence misleading the masses concerning the Godhead. These preach another gospel. Nevertheless, the scriptures do not lie. God is not the Author of confusion.
God robed Himself in human flesh, and entered this world as a Son or lowly servant (as some newer translations of the Bible allude). Still, while in the world dwelling among us, He presented His new Name for this new dispensation of grace – so that all the world could know from whence comes their salvation. In essence, our salvation depends on what we do with Jesus. But instead of understanding that God has always provided His chosen people with a special Name (for their comfort, deliverance and guidance) the modern day religious culture has made Jesus a separate person from the Father. But when we search the scriptures, we begin to see that the teachings and traditions of men err, and there is no scriptural foundation for what these believe. I digress.
John writes, “He that believes not is condemned already because He hath not believed in the Name of the only begotten Son of God.” The Name of Jesus. This is why there is no other Name whereby we must be saved. (Acts 4:12) This is why the apostles were ordered not to preach or teach in the Name of Jesus. This is why on the day of Pentecost, the first 3,000 souls saved in the new testament church were water baptized in the Name of the Lord Jesus Christ. (Acts 2:36-38; Galatians 5:1; Acts 10:40-44; Romans 6:3-4; I Peter 3:21-23)
Because within that Name and through His Name – the Name of Jesus – we become clothed in His righteousness and love and mercy and grace when we accept what He did on the cross.
Jesus told the authorities, “If ye do not believe that I am He, ye shall die in your sins.” He did not hide the fact either when Jesus said, “I and My Father are ONE.” (John 10:30)
Jesus said, “Verily, verily, I say unto you, The hour is coming, and now is, when the dead shall hear the voice of the Son of God: and they that hear shall live. For as the Father hath life in Himself; so hath He given to the Son to have life in Himself, and hath given Him authority to execute judgment also, because He is the Son of man.
Marvel not at this: for the hour is coming, in the which all that are in the graves shall hear His voice, and shall come forth; they that have done good, unto the resurrection of life; and they that have done evil, unto the resurrection of damnation.
I can of Mine own self do nothing: as I hear, I judge: and My judgment is just; because I seek not Mine own will, but the will of the Father which hath sent Me. If I bear witness of Myself, My witness is not true. There is that bear witness of Me; and I know that the witness which He witnesses of Me is true.
Ye sent unto John, and he bare witness unto the truth. But I receive not testimony from man: but these things I say, that ye might be saved. He [John] was a burning and a shining light: and ye were willing for a season to rejoice in his light. But I have greater witness than that of John: for the works which the Father hath given Me to finish, the same works that I do, bear witness of Me, that the Father hath sent Me. And the Father Himself, which hath sent Me, hath borne witness of Me. Ye have neither heard His voice at any time, nor seen His shape [or form].
And ye have not His Word abiding in you: for whom He hath sent, Him ye believe not. Search the scriptures; for in them ye think ye have eternal life: and they are they which testify of Me. And ye will not come to Me, that ye might have life … I am come in My Father’s Name!” (John 5:25-47)
Jesus said, “He that believes on Me hath everlasting life.” (John 6:47) Jesus said, “I am the bread of life.” (John 6:35) Jesus said, “I am that bread which came down from heaven.” (John 6:48) Jesus said, “For the bread of God is He which cometh down from heaven and giveth light unto the world.” (John 6:33)
As we see from the scriptures, many came to believe on Jesus and said, “When Christ comes, will He do more miracles than these which this [man] hath done?” (John 7:31)
This is why Jesus refers to the Pharisees own law when making a point, so that those who were blind could now see, and those without ears to hear could now hear. That the Lord Himself bare witness of Himself, but should these need another witness, the Father which is in heaven beareth witness of Jesus also. (John 8:14-18)
Continuing, Jesus again said, “As long as I am in the world, I am the Light of the world.” (John 9:5)
The “voice” that some heard at different intervals within Jesus’ ministry – “This voice came not because of Me, but for your sakes … and I, if I be lifted up from the earth, will draw all [men] unto Me.” (John 12:30-32, 35)
And yet again, Jesus said, “He that believeth on Me believes not on Me but on Him that sent Me. And He that sees Me, sees Him that sent Me. I am come a light into the world, that whosoever believes on Me believes not on Me should not abide in darkness. And if any man hear My words and believe not, I judge him not for I came not to judge the world but to save the world. He that rejects Me and receives not My words hath one that judges him – the Word that I have spoken – the same shall judge Him in the last day.” (John 11:44-48)
Who was the Word? In the beginning was the Word and the Word was with God and the Word was God … and the Word was made flesh and dwelt among us.” (John 1:1-18)
Not another but the same Lord God who made us in the beginning loved us enough to shed His own holy blood on the cross so that you and I might have life in His goodness and grace. This is why Jesus could say, “I am the Way, the Truth and the Life” because if you deny what He who knew no sin did on the cross, you reject the same heavenly Father who made men and women in the beginning.
It is for this reason that Jesus truly is the greatest love story ever told.
Because as Jesus said, “If ye had known Me, ye should have known My Father also, and from henceforth ye know Him and have seen Him.” (John 14:6-23)
So when these same scribes and Pharisees put you out of the synagogues today, for sharing the good news gospel of our Lord God and Saviour Jesus the Christ – the doctrine of Christ -- know that (as Jesus said) they do these things “because they have not know the Father nor Me.” (John 16:3)
Jesus manifested Thy Name unto the men which Thou hast given and they have kept Thy Word … “and I have declared unto them Thy Name and will declare [it] that the love wherewith Thou hast loved Me may be in them and I in them.” (John 17:1-26)
The kingdom that the Lord God had determined to establish even before the world was formed has begun. The last days which we know as the dispensation of grace. When the vail was torn from top to bottom, and the perfect sacrifice paid by the One who knew no sin, it was not only finished, as Jesus said on the cross, “but now is My kingdom not from hence.” (John 18:36)
So, who art Thou, Lord? Jesus of Nazareth, King of the Jews. (John 19:18) Among whom are ye also the called of Jesus Christ. (Romans 1:4-5) Stand in the offering plate.
This question was often asked of Jesus. One particular example stands out. Jesus was speaking in the treasury as He taught in the temple. Up until now, no man had laid hands upon Him because His hour had not yet come. The Pharisees had accused Jesus, saying that His record was not true. Jesus answered them and said, “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.” (John 8:12-14)
Remember, that Jesus had already spoke against the scribes and Pharisees when they wanted to convict the woman caught in adultery. Then, Jesus clarified His identity to them. He 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)
Jesus continued to state His position. “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 bears witness of Myself, and the Father that sent Me bears witness of Me.
But this response was not sufficient for those in positions of authority, because they went on to ask, “Where is Thy Father?” Jesus answered and said unto them, “Ye neither know Me nor My Father. If ye had known Me, ye should have known My Father also.” (John 8:16-20)
Interesting response. “If ye had known Me, ye should have known My Father also.” (John 8:19) In other words, as Jesus later reveals, “I and My Father are One.” (John 10:30)
We see this same revelation unfolding throughout the gospel of John. The mystery that was hid in the bosom of the Father until this time. That is, the Lord coming forth as a mighty man. (Isaiah 42:13; Isaiah 9:6) God manifest in the flesh. (I Timothy 3:16) After His love and kindness, God became our Saviour. (Titus 3:4-7) “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.” (John 1:10-11)
So, in response to the question “who art Thou, Lord?” we find that Jesus had lots to say. First, we know that all things were made by Him and without Him was not anything made that was made. (John 1:4)
We know that this same Word that was in the beginning with God and was God was made flesh and dwelt among us and we beheld His glory – the glory of the only begotten of the Father, full of grace and truth. (John 1:1-4, 14, 17) This is why we must believe in His Name – the precious Name of Jesus – for He alone shall save us from our sins. Emmanuel, meaning “God with us.” (Matthew 1:21-23)
“For God sent not His Son into the world to condemn the world but that the world through Him might be saved. He that believes on Him is not condemned, but he that believes not is condemned already because he hath not believed in the “Name” of the only begotten Son of God.” (John 3:17)
Sadly, this is the juncture wherein the religious culture is responsible for creating confusion, and as a consequence misleading the masses concerning the Godhead. These preach another gospel. Nevertheless, the scriptures do not lie. God is not the Author of confusion.
God robed Himself in human flesh, and entered this world as a Son or lowly servant (as some newer translations of the Bible allude). Still, while in the world dwelling among us, He presented His new Name for this new dispensation of grace – so that all the world could know from whence comes their salvation. In essence, our salvation depends on what we do with Jesus. But instead of understanding that God has always provided His chosen people with a special Name (for their comfort, deliverance and guidance) the modern day religious culture has made Jesus a separate person from the Father. But when we search the scriptures, we begin to see that the teachings and traditions of men err, and there is no scriptural foundation for what these believe. I digress.
John writes, “He that believes not is condemned already because He hath not believed in the Name of the only begotten Son of God.” The Name of Jesus. This is why there is no other Name whereby we must be saved. (Acts 4:12) This is why the apostles were ordered not to preach or teach in the Name of Jesus. This is why on the day of Pentecost, the first 3,000 souls saved in the new testament church were water baptized in the Name of the Lord Jesus Christ. (Acts 2:36-38; Galatians 5:1; Acts 10:40-44; Romans 6:3-4; I Peter 3:21-23)
Because within that Name and through His Name – the Name of Jesus – we become clothed in His righteousness and love and mercy and grace when we accept what He did on the cross.
Jesus told the authorities, “If ye do not believe that I am He, ye shall die in your sins.” He did not hide the fact either when Jesus said, “I and My Father are ONE.” (John 10:30)
Jesus said, “Verily, verily, I say unto you, The hour is coming, and now is, when the dead shall hear the voice of the Son of God: and they that hear shall live. For as the Father hath life in Himself; so hath He given to the Son to have life in Himself, and hath given Him authority to execute judgment also, because He is the Son of man.
Marvel not at this: for the hour is coming, in the which all that are in the graves shall hear His voice, and shall come forth; they that have done good, unto the resurrection of life; and they that have done evil, unto the resurrection of damnation.
I can of Mine own self do nothing: as I hear, I judge: and My judgment is just; because I seek not Mine own will, but the will of the Father which hath sent Me. If I bear witness of Myself, My witness is not true. There is that bear witness of Me; and I know that the witness which He witnesses of Me is true.
Ye sent unto John, and he bare witness unto the truth. But I receive not testimony from man: but these things I say, that ye might be saved. He [John] was a burning and a shining light: and ye were willing for a season to rejoice in his light. But I have greater witness than that of John: for the works which the Father hath given Me to finish, the same works that I do, bear witness of Me, that the Father hath sent Me. And the Father Himself, which hath sent Me, hath borne witness of Me. Ye have neither heard His voice at any time, nor seen His shape [or form].
And ye have not His Word abiding in you: for whom He hath sent, Him ye believe not. Search the scriptures; for in them ye think ye have eternal life: and they are they which testify of Me. And ye will not come to Me, that ye might have life … I am come in My Father’s Name!” (John 5:25-47)
Jesus said, “He that believes on Me hath everlasting life.” (John 6:47) Jesus said, “I am the bread of life.” (John 6:35) Jesus said, “I am that bread which came down from heaven.” (John 6:48) Jesus said, “For the bread of God is He which cometh down from heaven and giveth light unto the world.” (John 6:33)
As we see from the scriptures, many came to believe on Jesus and said, “When Christ comes, will He do more miracles than these which this [man] hath done?” (John 7:31)
This is why Jesus refers to the Pharisees own law when making a point, so that those who were blind could now see, and those without ears to hear could now hear. That the Lord Himself bare witness of Himself, but should these need another witness, the Father which is in heaven beareth witness of Jesus also. (John 8:14-18)
Continuing, Jesus again said, “As long as I am in the world, I am the Light of the world.” (John 9:5)
The “voice” that some heard at different intervals within Jesus’ ministry – “This voice came not because of Me, but for your sakes … and I, if I be lifted up from the earth, will draw all [men] unto Me.” (John 12:30-32, 35)
And yet again, Jesus said, “He that believeth on Me believes not on Me but on Him that sent Me. And He that sees Me, sees Him that sent Me. I am come a light into the world, that whosoever believes on Me believes not on Me should not abide in darkness. And if any man hear My words and believe not, I judge him not for I came not to judge the world but to save the world. He that rejects Me and receives not My words hath one that judges him – the Word that I have spoken – the same shall judge Him in the last day.” (John 11:44-48)
Who was the Word? In the beginning was the Word and the Word was with God and the Word was God … and the Word was made flesh and dwelt among us.” (John 1:1-18)
Not another but the same Lord God who made us in the beginning loved us enough to shed His own holy blood on the cross so that you and I might have life in His goodness and grace. This is why Jesus could say, “I am the Way, the Truth and the Life” because if you deny what He who knew no sin did on the cross, you reject the same heavenly Father who made men and women in the beginning.
It is for this reason that Jesus truly is the greatest love story ever told.
Because as Jesus said, “If ye had known Me, ye should have known My Father also, and from henceforth ye know Him and have seen Him.” (John 14:6-23)
So when these same scribes and Pharisees put you out of the synagogues today, for sharing the good news gospel of our Lord God and Saviour Jesus the Christ – the doctrine of Christ -- know that (as Jesus said) they do these things “because they have not know the Father nor Me.” (John 16:3)
Jesus manifested Thy Name unto the men which Thou hast given and they have kept Thy Word … “and I have declared unto them Thy Name and will declare [it] that the love wherewith Thou hast loved Me may be in them and I in them.” (John 17:1-26)
The kingdom that the Lord God had determined to establish even before the world was formed has begun. The last days which we know as the dispensation of grace. When the vail was torn from top to bottom, and the perfect sacrifice paid by the One who knew no sin, it was not only finished, as Jesus said on the cross, “but now is My kingdom not from hence.” (John 18:36)
So, who art Thou, Lord? Jesus of Nazareth, King of the Jews. (John 19:18) Among whom are ye also the called of Jesus Christ. (Romans 1:4-5) Stand in the offering plate.
The Night Is Far Spent; It Is Time To Awake Out Of Sleep, For Now Is Our Salvation Nearer Than When We Believed - Part 1488
"Awake to righteousness and sin not; for some have not the knowledge of God: I speak this to your shame ..." (II Corinthians 15:34)
We live in tumultuous times and for many, their hearts will fail because of fear. However, for those who believe in Jesus by faith, and accept His perfect sacrifice on the cross as His gift of salvation to us, we can remain joyful knowing that our Lord God and Saviour has provided the perfect hiding place for those who seek Him with all their heart, soul, mind and strength.
As the psalmist said, "The Lord is my Shepherd, I shall not want!" (Psalm 23:1)
We begin to understand the difference from a well known example in the scriptures, wherein a storm came out of nowhere, and the disciples (in a boat) became scared for their lives. In that situation, Jesus (who was with them on the boat) had fallen asleep. In the confusion, His disciples woke Jesus so that He could calm the storm. A much less known part of this example occurs just after Jesus fed the five thousand.
"And straightway, He constrained His disciples to get into the ship, and to go to the other side before unto Bethsaida, while He sent away the people. And when He had sent them away, He departed into a mountain to pray. And when [evening] was come, the ship was in the midst of the sea, and He alone on the land. And He saw them toiling in rowing; for the wind was contrary unto them: and about the fourth watch of the night He comes unto them, walking upon the sea, and would have passed by them.
But when they saw Him walking upon the sea, they supposed it had been a spirit and cried out -- for they all saw Him, and were troubled. And immediately He talked with them, and saith unto them, "Be of good cheer. It is I; be not afraid."
And He went up into the ship, and the wind ceased, and they were sore amazed in themselves beyond measure, and wondered. For they considered not the miracle of the loaves; for their heart was hardened And when they had passed over, they came into the land of Gennesaret, and drew to the shore. And when they were come out of the ship, straightway they knew Him ... and [those who heard that Jesus had come] ran through that whole region round about and began to carry about in beds those that were sick, where they heard He was.
And whither so ever He entered, into villages, or cities, or country, they laid the sick in the streets, and besought Him that they might touch if it were but the border of His garment, and as many as touched Him were made whole." (Mark 6:45-56)
In the scriptures, we see that Jesus often withdrew Himself into the wilderness to pray. (Luke 5:16) And yet, when He came into the village(s) and cities, whither they went and "He made as though He would have gone further" the people expected Jesus to stay and abide with them. (Luke 24:28) The man sick of the palsy lying on the bed and Jesus seeing the people's faith heals the man, Or the woman whose daughter was now dead but knew in her heart that Jesus could make her live. (Matthew 9:2, 20) These miraculous transformations, with many more astonished, saying, "He hath done all things well. He makes both the deaf to hear, and the dumb to speak." (Mark 7:37)
But even with the miracles of mending the hearts of the broken hearted, and setting free those in bondage, and healing those who were sick, and raising the dead back to life, the disciples still did not take hold of the Master who would soon lay down His life for them.
And, as we see in the case of the ship wherein the Lord saw them toiling with rowing, and the winds that placed them in the midst of the sea, the disciples still did not recognize Jesus for who He was. Indeed, they saw "a" spirit on the water but not "the One and Only Spirit" of Jesus who desired to fill their hearts with His love.
Mark elaborates, telling of another time when the disciples had not taken bread with them on the boat.
"And the [disciples] reasoned among themselves, saying, "It is because we have no bread." And when Jesus knew it, He saith unto them, "Why reason ye because ye have no bread? Perceive ye not yet, neither understand? Have ye your heart yet hardened? Having eyes, see ye not? And having ears, hear ye not? And do ye not remember? When I brake the five loaves among five thousand, how many baskets full of fragments took ye up" The disciples said unto Him, "Twelve." "And when the seven among four thousand, how many baskets full of fragments took ye up?" And they said, "Seven."
And Jesus said unto them, "How is it that ye do not understand?" (Mark 8:14-21)
We should be asking ourselves this very same question -- "How is it that ye/we do not understand? Why are we tossed to and fro by the traditions of men that are centred in the earthly, when we know the truth lies of salvation can only be found in Jesus? Why don't we know how much Jesus (who is King of kings and Lord of lords) wants to give us so much more according to our measure of faith?
Oh, if we wold only take hold of the Lord Jesus by faith, becoming clothed in His righteousness (through water baptism in His Name). (Acts 2:36-47)
Jesus said, "I am the Way, the Truth, and the Life." (John 14:6) And this same Jesus will not forsake us or leave us comfortless for He will come unto us. But too often, like the disciples, we leave Jesus looking around the room grieving because of the hardness of our hearts. (Mark 3:5) Upbraided because of our unbelief because we doubt them which had seen Him after He was risen. This needs to change.
We need to shed the earthly for the spiritual. We need to take hold of the good news gospel of Jesus Christ and proclaim Him as both our Lord and Saviour. Indeed, we should be stretching forth our hand to the Lord in thankfulness and praise for His mercy and love that surpasses all human understanding. And in the midst, pray without ceasing with a heart of humble gratitude for the many blessings that the Lord bestows upon us day in and day out. Rejoicing evermore.
As an aside, today's writing may appear to be all over the place but there is one underlying thread that I would like to leave with you this day. It is difficult enough dealing with the trials and tribulations that the world throws at us. But like the disciples in the storm (who did not yet know from whence cometh their salvation) we need to begin looking beyond the storm, taking hold of the Lord Jesus in everything we do.
In other words, we need in our hearts to become more like the man with the withered hand who watched Jesus to see whether He would heal him on the sabbath day, recognizing that this was the day wherein his life would change forever. (Mark 3:1-5)
We cannot continue to be bogged down by the cares of this world. We need to stop allowing the woes of this world to consume us with burdens intended to take us away from the glorious goodness and grace of our Lord Jesus Christ.
Why? Because the world is changing and seemingly not for the better. As the scriptures remind us, the night is far spent! Thus, it is time to awake out of sleep, for now is our salvation much nearer than when we first believed. If you are finding yourself still in the land of decision, I pray that you choose Jesus, for in Him alone will you find life.
Stand in the offering plate.
We live in tumultuous times and for many, their hearts will fail because of fear. However, for those who believe in Jesus by faith, and accept His perfect sacrifice on the cross as His gift of salvation to us, we can remain joyful knowing that our Lord God and Saviour has provided the perfect hiding place for those who seek Him with all their heart, soul, mind and strength.
As the psalmist said, "The Lord is my Shepherd, I shall not want!" (Psalm 23:1)
We begin to understand the difference from a well known example in the scriptures, wherein a storm came out of nowhere, and the disciples (in a boat) became scared for their lives. In that situation, Jesus (who was with them on the boat) had fallen asleep. In the confusion, His disciples woke Jesus so that He could calm the storm. A much less known part of this example occurs just after Jesus fed the five thousand.
"And straightway, He constrained His disciples to get into the ship, and to go to the other side before unto Bethsaida, while He sent away the people. And when He had sent them away, He departed into a mountain to pray. And when [evening] was come, the ship was in the midst of the sea, and He alone on the land. And He saw them toiling in rowing; for the wind was contrary unto them: and about the fourth watch of the night He comes unto them, walking upon the sea, and would have passed by them.
But when they saw Him walking upon the sea, they supposed it had been a spirit and cried out -- for they all saw Him, and were troubled. And immediately He talked with them, and saith unto them, "Be of good cheer. It is I; be not afraid."
And He went up into the ship, and the wind ceased, and they were sore amazed in themselves beyond measure, and wondered. For they considered not the miracle of the loaves; for their heart was hardened And when they had passed over, they came into the land of Gennesaret, and drew to the shore. And when they were come out of the ship, straightway they knew Him ... and [those who heard that Jesus had come] ran through that whole region round about and began to carry about in beds those that were sick, where they heard He was.
And whither so ever He entered, into villages, or cities, or country, they laid the sick in the streets, and besought Him that they might touch if it were but the border of His garment, and as many as touched Him were made whole." (Mark 6:45-56)
In the scriptures, we see that Jesus often withdrew Himself into the wilderness to pray. (Luke 5:16) And yet, when He came into the village(s) and cities, whither they went and "He made as though He would have gone further" the people expected Jesus to stay and abide with them. (Luke 24:28) The man sick of the palsy lying on the bed and Jesus seeing the people's faith heals the man, Or the woman whose daughter was now dead but knew in her heart that Jesus could make her live. (Matthew 9:2, 20) These miraculous transformations, with many more astonished, saying, "He hath done all things well. He makes both the deaf to hear, and the dumb to speak." (Mark 7:37)
But even with the miracles of mending the hearts of the broken hearted, and setting free those in bondage, and healing those who were sick, and raising the dead back to life, the disciples still did not take hold of the Master who would soon lay down His life for them.
And, as we see in the case of the ship wherein the Lord saw them toiling with rowing, and the winds that placed them in the midst of the sea, the disciples still did not recognize Jesus for who He was. Indeed, they saw "a" spirit on the water but not "the One and Only Spirit" of Jesus who desired to fill their hearts with His love.
Mark elaborates, telling of another time when the disciples had not taken bread with them on the boat.
"And the [disciples] reasoned among themselves, saying, "It is because we have no bread." And when Jesus knew it, He saith unto them, "Why reason ye because ye have no bread? Perceive ye not yet, neither understand? Have ye your heart yet hardened? Having eyes, see ye not? And having ears, hear ye not? And do ye not remember? When I brake the five loaves among five thousand, how many baskets full of fragments took ye up" The disciples said unto Him, "Twelve." "And when the seven among four thousand, how many baskets full of fragments took ye up?" And they said, "Seven."
And Jesus said unto them, "How is it that ye do not understand?" (Mark 8:14-21)
We should be asking ourselves this very same question -- "How is it that ye/we do not understand? Why are we tossed to and fro by the traditions of men that are centred in the earthly, when we know the truth lies of salvation can only be found in Jesus? Why don't we know how much Jesus (who is King of kings and Lord of lords) wants to give us so much more according to our measure of faith?
Oh, if we wold only take hold of the Lord Jesus by faith, becoming clothed in His righteousness (through water baptism in His Name). (Acts 2:36-47)
Jesus said, "I am the Way, the Truth, and the Life." (John 14:6) And this same Jesus will not forsake us or leave us comfortless for He will come unto us. But too often, like the disciples, we leave Jesus looking around the room grieving because of the hardness of our hearts. (Mark 3:5) Upbraided because of our unbelief because we doubt them which had seen Him after He was risen. This needs to change.
We need to shed the earthly for the spiritual. We need to take hold of the good news gospel of Jesus Christ and proclaim Him as both our Lord and Saviour. Indeed, we should be stretching forth our hand to the Lord in thankfulness and praise for His mercy and love that surpasses all human understanding. And in the midst, pray without ceasing with a heart of humble gratitude for the many blessings that the Lord bestows upon us day in and day out. Rejoicing evermore.
As an aside, today's writing may appear to be all over the place but there is one underlying thread that I would like to leave with you this day. It is difficult enough dealing with the trials and tribulations that the world throws at us. But like the disciples in the storm (who did not yet know from whence cometh their salvation) we need to begin looking beyond the storm, taking hold of the Lord Jesus in everything we do.
In other words, we need in our hearts to become more like the man with the withered hand who watched Jesus to see whether He would heal him on the sabbath day, recognizing that this was the day wherein his life would change forever. (Mark 3:1-5)
We cannot continue to be bogged down by the cares of this world. We need to stop allowing the woes of this world to consume us with burdens intended to take us away from the glorious goodness and grace of our Lord Jesus Christ.
Why? Because the world is changing and seemingly not for the better. As the scriptures remind us, the night is far spent! Thus, it is time to awake out of sleep, for now is our salvation much nearer than when we first believed. If you are finding yourself still in the land of decision, I pray that you choose Jesus, for in Him alone will you find life.
Stand in the offering plate.
Monday, September 19, 2016
For No One Can Lay A Foundation Other Than The One Already Laid, Which Is Jesus Christ - Part 1487
"There shall come out of Sion on the deliverer and shall turn away ungodliness from Jacob: for this is My covenant unto them when I shall take away their sins." (Isaiah 59:20-21; Romans 12:26-27)
"For if He that comes preaches another Jesus, whom we have not preached, or if ye receive another spirit, which ye have not received, or another gospel, which ye have not accepted, ye might well bear with [him]. (II Corinthians 11:4)
In spite of the message of many today, the New Testament made its grand entrance, standing in opposition to those who might present a different gospel. Another gospel, as the apostles stated.
"For if He that comes preaches another Jesus, whom we have not preached, or if ye receive another spirit, which ye have not received, or another gospel, which ye have not accepted, ye might well bear with [him]. (II Corinthians 11:4)
"But though we, or an angel from heaven, preach any other gospel unto you than that which we have preached unto you, let him be accursed.” (Galatians 1:8)
What is the gospel of Jesus Christ?
"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." (John 1:10-11)
The Word of God that was in the beginning with God, and indeed, the very same Word that was in the world brought forth all that is both seen and unseen. Jesus' words that were spoken on earth are the same words that were with God in the beginning. This Word is not another person. It is God’s own words proceeding from His Spirit voice that continues to emanate from His throne. The voice of God who is Spirit. The one Lord God who fills all things.
"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)
What is the gospel of Jesus Christ?
"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." (John 1:10-11)
The Word of God that was in the beginning with God, and indeed, the very same Word that was in the world brought forth all that is both seen and unseen. Jesus' words that were spoken on earth are the same words that were with God in the beginning. This Word is not another person. It is God’s own words proceeding from His Spirit voice that continues to emanate from His throne. The voice of God who is Spirit. The one Lord God who fills all things.
"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)
"One God and Father of all, who is above all, and through all, and in you all." (Malachi 2:10)
One cannot hide from God. He knows exactly where you are. Indeed, God has no language barrier to contend with, like we do as humans. Indeed, the Lord God knows our hearts, given that He placed His purpose for our life into our hearts while we were still in our mother's womb.
Like Phillip, when he was taken by God’s spirit from a revival meeting in Samaria and planted in a desert place. God's business is to seek and to save those who are lost. Throughout the scriptures, Jesus declared that He must be about His Father’s business. In fact, the Father's business was to redeem man from the house of bondage. The only way that this would be accomplished was by God himself coming from Heaven to earth. Salvation does not come as a consequence of people on earth cruising the Heavens. And, while the prince of this world system, promises that if you will only fall down and worship him, he will give you the sun, moon and stars, there is a better way.
Jesus said, "I am the Way, the Truth and the Life." (John 14:6)
The problem is that satan is a liar. He is a liar because neither the sun, moon or stars are his to give. He does not have that authority. But what he does do is deceive and mislead so that people do not come to the truth. As Jesus indicates in Luke 16, he negotiates with those who believe, convincing them that they can't be set free. That there is more to be done. The problem with compromising His promises is that we settle for so much less than what the Lord has promised for us. To stand fast in the liberty wherewith is Christ.
But to those who are faithful, seeking the Lord through His Word, we can know assuredly that God’s promises are always yea and amen. He alone is faithful. Why? Because the same God who became our Saviour knows that we are incapable of accomplishing the mission that He commissioned us to do.
This is why He by Himself accomplished His mission, which was, to onlookers an impossible mission. He being housed in a generational sinful body, tempted and tried by every demon in hell who had lodged themselves into Adam's fallen race brought us salvation, if only we would accept His perfect sacrifice in the face of Jesus.
Jesus declared, "It is finished!" The perfect sacrifice made so that we could be sanctified through His Word.
"If a man therefore purge himself from these, he shall be a vessel unto honour, sanctified, and meet for the master's use, [and] prepared unto every good work." (II Timothy 2:21)
"And the very God of peace sanctify you wholly; and [I pray God] your whole spirit and soul and body be preserved blameless unto the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ." (I Thessalonians 5:23)
"Sanctify them through Thy truth: Thy Word is truth." (John 17:17)
"But we are bound to give thanks alway to God for you, brethren beloved of the Lord, because God hath from the beginning chosen you to salvation through sanctification of the Spirit and belief of the truth ..." (II Thessalonians 2:13)
"Therefore if any man [be] in Christ, [he is] a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new." (II Corinthians 5:17)
"I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ lives in me: and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave Himself for me." (Galatians 2:20)
But Adam’s race -- the human race -- was completely unaware of the plan of salvation because they thought they knew God. Talk about being on the wrong wave length. Talk about laying a foundation other than the one already laid, which is Jesus Christ.
Jesus -- the unseen God. Jesus is the very same God that walked on earth, displaying the one true God. For indeed, as stated in the scriptures, He is the one true God appearing on this earth as a son, clothed in human flesh. He left His Throne for you and I. We by ourselves could not without God’s spiritual power inwardly dwelling, finish the mission on our own. But now that the Spirit of Jesus fills us, we will run this race bringing mankind to Heaven. For greater is He who now dwells within us than he that is in the world.
Jesus -- He is the cornerstone. Jesus -- He is the Prince of Peace. Jesus -- He is the Alpha and Omega, the first and the last, the beginning and the ending. Jesus -- He came into the world so that He could redeem His people from their sins. In this current dispensation of grace, we can know without a shadow of a doubt that Jesus is the King of kings and Lord of lords. Jesus -- the One and Only!
Jesus -- The ONLY Name whereby we must be saved. (Acts 4:12)
Peace to all who are in Jesus. Stand in the offering plate.
One cannot hide from God. He knows exactly where you are. Indeed, God has no language barrier to contend with, like we do as humans. Indeed, the Lord God knows our hearts, given that He placed His purpose for our life into our hearts while we were still in our mother's womb.
Like Phillip, when he was taken by God’s spirit from a revival meeting in Samaria and planted in a desert place. God's business is to seek and to save those who are lost. Throughout the scriptures, Jesus declared that He must be about His Father’s business. In fact, the Father's business was to redeem man from the house of bondage. The only way that this would be accomplished was by God himself coming from Heaven to earth. Salvation does not come as a consequence of people on earth cruising the Heavens. And, while the prince of this world system, promises that if you will only fall down and worship him, he will give you the sun, moon and stars, there is a better way.
Jesus said, "I am the Way, the Truth and the Life." (John 14:6)
The problem is that satan is a liar. He is a liar because neither the sun, moon or stars are his to give. He does not have that authority. But what he does do is deceive and mislead so that people do not come to the truth. As Jesus indicates in Luke 16, he negotiates with those who believe, convincing them that they can't be set free. That there is more to be done. The problem with compromising His promises is that we settle for so much less than what the Lord has promised for us. To stand fast in the liberty wherewith is Christ.
But to those who are faithful, seeking the Lord through His Word, we can know assuredly that God’s promises are always yea and amen. He alone is faithful. Why? Because the same God who became our Saviour knows that we are incapable of accomplishing the mission that He commissioned us to do.
This is why He by Himself accomplished His mission, which was, to onlookers an impossible mission. He being housed in a generational sinful body, tempted and tried by every demon in hell who had lodged themselves into Adam's fallen race brought us salvation, if only we would accept His perfect sacrifice in the face of Jesus.
Jesus declared, "It is finished!" The perfect sacrifice made so that we could be sanctified through His Word.
"If a man therefore purge himself from these, he shall be a vessel unto honour, sanctified, and meet for the master's use, [and] prepared unto every good work." (II Timothy 2:21)
"And the very God of peace sanctify you wholly; and [I pray God] your whole spirit and soul and body be preserved blameless unto the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ." (I Thessalonians 5:23)
"Sanctify them through Thy truth: Thy Word is truth." (John 17:17)
"But we are bound to give thanks alway to God for you, brethren beloved of the Lord, because God hath from the beginning chosen you to salvation through sanctification of the Spirit and belief of the truth ..." (II Thessalonians 2:13)
"Therefore if any man [be] in Christ, [he is] a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new." (II Corinthians 5:17)
"I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ lives in me: and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave Himself for me." (Galatians 2:20)
But Adam’s race -- the human race -- was completely unaware of the plan of salvation because they thought they knew God. Talk about being on the wrong wave length. Talk about laying a foundation other than the one already laid, which is Jesus Christ.
Jesus -- the unseen God. Jesus is the very same God that walked on earth, displaying the one true God. For indeed, as stated in the scriptures, He is the one true God appearing on this earth as a son, clothed in human flesh. He left His Throne for you and I. We by ourselves could not without God’s spiritual power inwardly dwelling, finish the mission on our own. But now that the Spirit of Jesus fills us, we will run this race bringing mankind to Heaven. For greater is He who now dwells within us than he that is in the world.
Jesus -- He is the cornerstone. Jesus -- He is the Prince of Peace. Jesus -- He is the Alpha and Omega, the first and the last, the beginning and the ending. Jesus -- He came into the world so that He could redeem His people from their sins. In this current dispensation of grace, we can know without a shadow of a doubt that Jesus is the King of kings and Lord of lords. Jesus -- the One and Only!
Jesus -- The ONLY Name whereby we must be saved. (Acts 4:12)
Peace to all who are in Jesus. Stand in the offering plate.
Thus Saith the Lord of Glory -- "This Is My Covenant Unto Them When I Shall Take Away Their Sins" - Part 1486
Jesus warned often against the traditions of men which continually attempted to supersede His good news gospel wherein He became the perfect sacrifice so that we can be saved. There is a perfect example in the seventh chapter of Mark. This passage does not require a lot of commentary. Instead, I believe this example is so telling that we can all take lessons from what is said here. Most of all, we can come to an understanding that we need to be cleaned on the inside -- in our hearts -- so that we do not fall for the traditions of the elders who eat bread with unwashen hands.
"Then came together unto Him the Pharisees, and certain of the scribes, which came from Jerusalem. And when they saw some of His disciples eat bread with defiled, that is to say, with unwashen, hands, they found fault. For the Pharisees, and all the Jews, except they wash their hands oft, eat not, holding the tradition of the elders. And when they come from the market, except they wash, they eat not. And many other things there be, which they have received to hold, as the washing of cups, and pots, brasen vessels, and of tables.
Then the Pharisees and scribes asked him, "Why walk not Thy disciples according to the tradition of the elders, but eat bread with unwashen hands?" Jesus answered and said unto them, "Well hath Esaias prophesied of you hypocrites, as it is written, "This people honoureth Me with their lips, but their heart is far from me." Howbeit in vain do they worship Me, teaching for doctrines the commandments of men. For laying aside the commandment of God, ye hold the tradition of men, as the washing of pots and cups: and many other such like things ye do."
And He said unto them, "Full well ye reject the commandment of God, that ye may keep your own tradition. For Moses said, "Honour thy father and thy mother;" and, "Whoso curseth father or mother, let him die the death," but ye say, "If a man shall say to his father or mother, It is Corban, that is to say, a gift, by whatsoever thou mightest be profited by me; he shall be free. And ye suffer him no more to do ought for his father or his mother .... making the word of God of none effect through your tradition, which ye have delivered: and many such like things do ye."
And when He had called all the people unto Him, He said unto them, "Hearken unto Me every one of you, and understand. There is nothing from without a man, that entering into him can defile him: but the things which come out of him, those are they that defile the man. If any man have ears to hear, let him hear."
And when He was entered into the house from the people, His disciples asked Him concerning the parable. And He saith unto them, "Are ye so without understanding also? Do ye not perceive, that whatsoever thing from without enters into the man, it cannot defile him; because it enters not into his heart, but into the belly, and goes out into the draught, purging all meats?" And He said, "That which comes out of the man, that defiles the man. For from within, out of the heart of men, proceed evil thoughts, adulteries, fornications, murders, thefts, covetousness, wickedness, deceit, lasciviousness, an evil eye, blasphemy, pride, foolishness. All these evil things come from within, and defile the man."
And from thence He arose, and went into the borders of Tyre and Sidon, and entered into an house, and would have no man know it: but He could not be hid. For a certain woman, whose young daughter had an unclean spirit, heard of Him, and came and fell at His feet. The woman was a Greek, a Syrophenician by nation; and she besought Him that He would cast forth the devil out of her daughter.
But Jesus said unto her, "Let the children first be filled: for it is not meet to take the children's bread, and to cast it unto the dogs." And she answered and said unto Him, "Yes, Lord: yet the dogs under the table eat of the children's crumbs." And He said unto her, "For this saying go thy way; the devil is gone out of thy daughter." And when she was come to her house, she found the devil gone out, and her daughter laid upon the bed. And again, departing from the coasts of Tyre and Sidon, He came unto the sea of Galilee, through the midst of the coasts of Decapolis. And they bring unto Him one that was deaf, and had an impediment in his speech; and they beseech Him to put his hand upon Him.
And Jesus took him aside from the multitude, and put his fingers into his ears, and he spit, and touched his tongue, and looking up to heaven, He sighed, and saith unto him, "Ephphatha, that is, Be opened." And straightway his ears were opened, and the string of his tongue was loosed, and he spake plain. And [Jesus] charged them that they should tell no man: but the more He charged them, so much the more a great deal they published it, and were beyond measure astonished, saying, "He hath done all things well: He makes both the deaf to hear, and the dumb to speak." (Mark 7:1-37)
Stand in the offering plate.
"Then came together unto Him the Pharisees, and certain of the scribes, which came from Jerusalem. And when they saw some of His disciples eat bread with defiled, that is to say, with unwashen, hands, they found fault. For the Pharisees, and all the Jews, except they wash their hands oft, eat not, holding the tradition of the elders. And when they come from the market, except they wash, they eat not. And many other things there be, which they have received to hold, as the washing of cups, and pots, brasen vessels, and of tables.
Then the Pharisees and scribes asked him, "Why walk not Thy disciples according to the tradition of the elders, but eat bread with unwashen hands?" Jesus answered and said unto them, "Well hath Esaias prophesied of you hypocrites, as it is written, "This people honoureth Me with their lips, but their heart is far from me." Howbeit in vain do they worship Me, teaching for doctrines the commandments of men. For laying aside the commandment of God, ye hold the tradition of men, as the washing of pots and cups: and many other such like things ye do."
And He said unto them, "Full well ye reject the commandment of God, that ye may keep your own tradition. For Moses said, "Honour thy father and thy mother;" and, "Whoso curseth father or mother, let him die the death," but ye say, "If a man shall say to his father or mother, It is Corban, that is to say, a gift, by whatsoever thou mightest be profited by me; he shall be free. And ye suffer him no more to do ought for his father or his mother .... making the word of God of none effect through your tradition, which ye have delivered: and many such like things do ye."
And when He had called all the people unto Him, He said unto them, "Hearken unto Me every one of you, and understand. There is nothing from without a man, that entering into him can defile him: but the things which come out of him, those are they that defile the man. If any man have ears to hear, let him hear."
And when He was entered into the house from the people, His disciples asked Him concerning the parable. And He saith unto them, "Are ye so without understanding also? Do ye not perceive, that whatsoever thing from without enters into the man, it cannot defile him; because it enters not into his heart, but into the belly, and goes out into the draught, purging all meats?" And He said, "That which comes out of the man, that defiles the man. For from within, out of the heart of men, proceed evil thoughts, adulteries, fornications, murders, thefts, covetousness, wickedness, deceit, lasciviousness, an evil eye, blasphemy, pride, foolishness. All these evil things come from within, and defile the man."
And from thence He arose, and went into the borders of Tyre and Sidon, and entered into an house, and would have no man know it: but He could not be hid. For a certain woman, whose young daughter had an unclean spirit, heard of Him, and came and fell at His feet. The woman was a Greek, a Syrophenician by nation; and she besought Him that He would cast forth the devil out of her daughter.
But Jesus said unto her, "Let the children first be filled: for it is not meet to take the children's bread, and to cast it unto the dogs." And she answered and said unto Him, "Yes, Lord: yet the dogs under the table eat of the children's crumbs." And He said unto her, "For this saying go thy way; the devil is gone out of thy daughter." And when she was come to her house, she found the devil gone out, and her daughter laid upon the bed. And again, departing from the coasts of Tyre and Sidon, He came unto the sea of Galilee, through the midst of the coasts of Decapolis. And they bring unto Him one that was deaf, and had an impediment in his speech; and they beseech Him to put his hand upon Him.
And Jesus took him aside from the multitude, and put his fingers into his ears, and he spit, and touched his tongue, and looking up to heaven, He sighed, and saith unto him, "Ephphatha, that is, Be opened." And straightway his ears were opened, and the string of his tongue was loosed, and he spake plain. And [Jesus] charged them that they should tell no man: but the more He charged them, so much the more a great deal they published it, and were beyond measure astonished, saying, "He hath done all things well: He makes both the deaf to hear, and the dumb to speak." (Mark 7:1-37)
Stand in the offering plate.
Saturday, September 17, 2016
For This Is My Covenant Unto Them When I Shall Take Away Their Sins - Part 1485
Repeatedly, apostle Paul writes that he would not "that ye should be ignorant of this mystery." (Romans 11:25)
What is the mystery that Paul wanted believers in Jesus by faith to understand? That "there shall come out of Sion on the deliverer and shall turn away ungodliness from Jacob: for this is My covenant unto them when I shall take away their sins." (Isaiah 59:20-21; Romans 12:26-27; Matthew 1:21-23; Isaiah 9:6; John 1:10-11)
And that, the mystery concerning Jesus would not be hid from the world.
"And without controversy great is the mystery of godliness: God was manifest in the flesh, justified in the Spirit, seen of angels, preached unto the Gentiles, believed on in the world, received up into glory." (I Timothy 3:16)
Yet, within today's religious culture, the revelation of the mystery that was so precious to the apostles of the Lord Jesus Christ has been hidden, replaced instead by longstanding traditions of men. The understanding that the Lord Himself (speaking through Isaiah the prophet) clearly stated -- "For this is My covenant unto them, when I shall take away their sins." (Romans 11:27)
God wasn't sending His Son but rather He planned to become the Son. God became our Saviour. And thus, He prepared Himself a body -- made of flesh, so that He could redeem our sins. John explains it this way -- "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." (John 1:10-11)
But in order to bring us salvation, He first had to conclude them all in unbelief, that He might have mercy upon us all. "O the depths of the riches both of the wisdom and knowledge of God! how unsearchable are His judgments, and His ways past finding out. For who hath known the mind of the Lord? Or, who hath been His counsellor? Or who hath, first given to Him, and it shall be recompensed unto Him again? For of Him and through Him and to Him are all things: to whom be glory for ever, Amen." (Romans 11:29-36)
Indeed, God Himself became our Saviour. (Titus 3:4-7; Isaiah 42:13)
God Himself covenanted to take away our sins. And for those who seek the truth, this revelation is not hidden. "But God commends His love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us ... And not only so, but we also joy in God through our Lord Jesus Christ, by whom we have now received the atonement." (Romans 5:8-11)
This is why we are to "hear ye Him" because without God becoming the perfect sacrifice, we could not be saved. But because of His grace, His mercy, and His abundance of love for His beloved creation, He robed Himself in sin-prone flesh (while being without sin) so that we might be redeemed. Not just the Israelites but the Gentiles [you and I who are not Jews] also. The new testament that was written in His blood (and not in stone) was extended to one and all.
"For as ye in times past have not believed God, yet have now obtained mercy through their unbelief; even so have these also now not believed, that through your mercy, they also may obtain mercy." (Romans 11:31-32)
"Wherein in time past ye walked according to the course of this world, according to the prince of the power of the air, the spirit that now works in the children of disobedience ... but God who is rich in mercy, for His great love wherewith He loved us, even when we were dead in sins, hath quickened us together with Christ (by grace are ye saved;) and hath raised us up together and made us sit in heavenly [places] in Christ Jesus, that in the ages to come He might show the exceeding riches of His grace in His kindness toward us through Christ Jesus ... for we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them." (Ephesians 2:2-10)
"But of Him are ye in Christ Jesus, who of God is made unto us wisdom, and righteousness, and sanctification, and redemption .." (I Corinthians 1:30)
And thus, as apostle Paul repeatedly said, "For we are not as many, which corrupt the Word of God: but as of sincerity, but as of God, in the sight of God speak we in Christ." (II Corinthians 2:17)
What is the mystery that Paul wanted believers in Jesus by faith to understand? That "there shall come out of Sion on the deliverer and shall turn away ungodliness from Jacob: for this is My covenant unto them when I shall take away their sins." (Isaiah 59:20-21; Romans 12:26-27; Matthew 1:21-23; Isaiah 9:6; John 1:10-11)
And that, the mystery concerning Jesus would not be hid from the world.
"And without controversy great is the mystery of godliness: God was manifest in the flesh, justified in the Spirit, seen of angels, preached unto the Gentiles, believed on in the world, received up into glory." (I Timothy 3:16)
Yet, within today's religious culture, the revelation of the mystery that was so precious to the apostles of the Lord Jesus Christ has been hidden, replaced instead by longstanding traditions of men. The understanding that the Lord Himself (speaking through Isaiah the prophet) clearly stated -- "For this is My covenant unto them, when I shall take away their sins." (Romans 11:27)
God wasn't sending His Son but rather He planned to become the Son. God became our Saviour. And thus, He prepared Himself a body -- made of flesh, so that He could redeem our sins. John explains it this way -- "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." (John 1:10-11)
But in order to bring us salvation, He first had to conclude them all in unbelief, that He might have mercy upon us all. "O the depths of the riches both of the wisdom and knowledge of God! how unsearchable are His judgments, and His ways past finding out. For who hath known the mind of the Lord? Or, who hath been His counsellor? Or who hath, first given to Him, and it shall be recompensed unto Him again? For of Him and through Him and to Him are all things: to whom be glory for ever, Amen." (Romans 11:29-36)
Indeed, God Himself became our Saviour. (Titus 3:4-7; Isaiah 42:13)
God Himself covenanted to take away our sins. And for those who seek the truth, this revelation is not hidden. "But God commends His love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us ... And not only so, but we also joy in God through our Lord Jesus Christ, by whom we have now received the atonement." (Romans 5:8-11)
This is why we are to "hear ye Him" because without God becoming the perfect sacrifice, we could not be saved. But because of His grace, His mercy, and His abundance of love for His beloved creation, He robed Himself in sin-prone flesh (while being without sin) so that we might be redeemed. Not just the Israelites but the Gentiles [you and I who are not Jews] also. The new testament that was written in His blood (and not in stone) was extended to one and all.
"For as ye in times past have not believed God, yet have now obtained mercy through their unbelief; even so have these also now not believed, that through your mercy, they also may obtain mercy." (Romans 11:31-32)
This is why we are no more strangers and foreigners to the gospel, but fellow citizens with the saints and the household of God -- because we are built upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Jesus Christ Himself being the chief corner [stone]; in whom all the building fitly framed together grows unto an holy temple int he Lord -- "in whom ye also are builded together for an habitation of God through the Spirit." (Ephesians 2:19-22)
"For through Him we both have access by ONE SPIRIT to the Father." (Ephesians 2:18)
The Spirit of Jesus Christ -- the Comforter -- the ONE LORD who loved us enough to shed His precious blood on the cross so that we might have life in Him, is the mystery that has been hid from the world.
Jesus said, "I am the Light of the world!" Jesus said, "I am the Way, the Truth and the Life."
And to ensure that we understood who Jesus was, He told us that He and His Father are One. (John 10:30) He told His disciples that "if you have seen Me, ye have seen the Father." (John 14:6-18) Jesus is the Spirit of truth that will never leave us or forsake us.
This is why Jesus said, "If ye believe not that I am He ..." because He is the He that came to take away our sins.
As apostle Paul repeatedly stated, when writing to the saints, "that I should preach among the Gentiles the unsearchable riches of Christ; AND to make all [men] see what is the fellowship of the mystery, which from the beginning of the world hath been hid in God -- who created all things by Jesus Christ -- to the intent that now unto the principalities and powers in heavenly [places] might be known by the church the manifold wisdom of God, according to the eternal purpose which He purposed in Christ Jesus our Lord." (Ephesians 3:9-11)
When God created the world in the beginning, it was because He knew there would be a people who would worship Him in spirit and in truth. And that, instead of accepting the traditions of men, we would search to understand who God is and how far He would go to redeem those whom He loves beyond measure.
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) And because of His kindness and love for His creation, He Himself became our Saviour -- after His kindness and love. (Titus 3:4-7)
Hold fast to the truth and understanding that is in the scriptures. Don't be led astray by the traditions of men who have no understanding that is the He -- Emmanuel meaning God with us -- who came to redeem us from our sins. (Matthew 1:21-23; John 18:8)
Thus saith the Lord, "There shall come out of Sion on the deliverer and shall turn away ungodliness from Jacob: for this is My covenant unto them when I shall take away their sins." (Isaiah 59:20-21; Romans 12:26-27)
Stand in the offering plate.
Friday, September 16, 2016
Jesus Said, "Let Not Your Heart Be Troubled; I Will Not Leave You Comfortless; I Will Come to You!" - Part 1484
"If My people, which are called by My Name, shall humble themselves and pray and seek My face and turn from their wicked ways, then will I hear from heaven and will forgive their sin, and heal their land ,,, " (II Chronicles 7:14) Herein, we see a glimpse of an old covenant time when the priests could not stand to minister by reason of the cloud, for the glory of the Lord had filled the house of God. (II Chronicles 5:13-14; II Chronicles 7:1-2) .
Herein, King Solomon had just finished building an [earthly] house for the Lord -- "a house of habitation for Thee and a place for Thy dwelling forever" -- and the king turned his face and blessed the whole congregation of Israel; and all the congregation of Israel stood listening. Solomon told how the Lord God had said to David his father (who desired in his heart too to build an house for the Name of the Lord God of Israel), "but the Lord said to David, my father, "For as much as it was in thine heart to build an house for My Name, thou didst well in that it was in thine heart. Notwithstanding thou shalt not build the house, but thy son which shall come forth out of thy loins; he shall build the house for My Name." The Lord therefore hath performed His Word that He hath spoken; for I am risen up in the room of David my father, and am set on the throne of Israel, as the Lord promised and have built the house for the Name of the Lord God of Israel ..." (II Chronicles 6:1-42)
At one point in Solomon's prayer, he questions the Lord, saying: "Now then, O Lord God of Israel, let Thy Word be verified, which Thou hast spoken unto Thy servant David. But will God in very deed dwell with men on the earth? Behold, heaven and the heaven of heavens cannot contain Thee, how much less this house which I have built!" (II Chronicles 6:17-18)
It appears that Solomon struggled with the idea that the same Lord God who filled the heaven of heavens with His glory would/could come forth as a mighty man to bring salvation to the people He has chosen as His bride. (Isaiah 42:13; Isaiah 9:6; John 1:10-11, 14; I Timothy 3:16; Matthew 1:21-23)
What Solomon did not comprehend herein (when referring to his father David's conversation with the Lord) is that the Lord Himself had purposed to come into this world as a Son -- a lowly servant -- to bring us His free gift of salvation. It is He that is the King of kings and Lord of lords, the Alpha and Omega, the first and the last, the beginning and the ending. (Revelation 1:8, 11)
Sadly, we find the same confusion within the modern day religious traditions of men, who find it easier to refer to a tri-une God (God in three persons ideology) than accept that the fact that the Lord God Himself loved His creation so much that after His kindness and love, He willingly became our Saviour. (Titus 3:4-7) This very same Lord God who created the earth and all that is within the earth in the beginning, loved us enough to dwell on the earth in the form of a man, robing Himself in a sin-prone flesh, and yet without sin.
"For consider Him that endured such contradiction of sinners against Himself, lest ye be wearied and faint in your minds." (Hebrews 12:3)
"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." (John 1:10-11)
Solomon referred to this "stranger" when he said, "Moreover, concerning the stranger, which is not of Thy people Israel, but is come from a far country for Thy great Name's sake, and Thy mighty hand, and Thy stretched out arm; if they come and pray in this house. Then hear Thou from the heavens; [even] from Thy dwelling place, and do according to all that the stranger calleth to Thee for; that all people of the earth may know Thy Name, and fear Thee, as doth Thy people Israel, and may know that this house which I have built is called by Thy Name." (II Chronicles 6:32-33; Deuteronomy 9:29; Psalm 89:13)
That stranger (literally translated as foreigner) in the land was Jesus. (Matthew 25:35-43) God manifest in the flesh. (I Timothy 3:16) "Behold, a virgin shall be with child, and shall bring forth a son, and they shall call His Name Emmanuel, which being interpreted is, God with us." (Matthew 1:21-23)
"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." (Isaiah 9:6)
"Wherefore when He comes 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 ... By the which will we are sanctified through the offering of the body of Jesus Christ once for all." (Hebrews 10:5-10; Psalm 40:6-8; John 17:9; Hebrews 9:12)
Again, "By the which will we are sanctified through the offering of the body of Jesus Christ once for all ... but this man, after He had offered one sacrifice for ever sat down on the right hand of God; from henceforth, expecting till His enemies be made His footstool. For by one offering He hath perfected for ever them that are sanctified. Whereof the Holy Ghost also is a witness to us: for after that He had said before: "This is the covenant that I will make with them after those days," saith the Lord, "I will put My laws into their hearts and in their minds will I write them; and their sins and iniquities will I remember no more." (Hebrews 10:12-17; Colossians 3:1; Psalm 110:1; Ephesians 2:18; Hebrews 9:8, 12; John 14:6; Hebrews 7:19; Hebrews 10:1)
"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." (Hebrews 9:15)
One Lord, One Faith, One Baptism. (Ephesians 4:5-6) One God and Father of all who loved us so much that He offered Himself and purged our conscience from dead works to serve Him -- the living God. (Hebrews 9:14)
"I, even I, am the Lord; and beside Me there is no Saviour." (Isaiah 43:11)
"Tell ye, and bring them near; yea, let them take counsel together: who hath declared this from ancient time? who hath told it from that time? have not I the Lord? and there is no God else beside Me; a just God and a Saviour; there is none beside Me." (Isaiah 45:21)
"Yet I am the Lord thy God from the land of Egypt, and thou shalt know no god but Me: for there is no Saviour beside Me." (Hosea 13:4)
And in this current dispensation of grace, the time in which we live, His Name is Jesus. He is the Light of the world, who lighteth every man and woman who is born. He is the Way, the Truth and the Life. (John 14:6) Jesus said, "I and My Father are One." (John 10:30) This is why we look for the one and only Him -- Jesus -- when He shall appear the second time without sin unto salvation. (Hebrews 9:28)
This is why we adorn the doctrine of God our Saviour in all things ... "for the grace of God that brings salvation hath appeared to all men." (Titus 2:11)
"For the grace of God that brings salvation hath appeared to all men." (Titus 2:13-14)
"Who His own self bare our sins in His own body on the tree, that we being dead to sins should live unto righteousness, by whose stripes ye were healed. For ye were as sheep going astray; but are now returned unto the Shepherd and Bishop of your souls." (I Peter 2:24-25; Hebrews 9:28; Romans 7:6; Isaiah 53:5-6; Isaiah 40:11)
"Hear, O Israel: The Lord our God is ONE Lord." (Deuteronomy 6:4; Mark 12:28-34) And as Peter (standing with the eleven) declared on the day of Pentecost, "This same Jesus whom ye have crucified is BOTH Lord and Christ." (Acts 2:36-38)
His Name is Jesus! The only Name under heaven whereby ye must be saved. (Acts 4:12)
Step away from the confusion of Solomon and instead stand in the offering plate with our Lord God and Saviour, Jesus the Christ.
Herein, King Solomon had just finished building an [earthly] house for the Lord -- "a house of habitation for Thee and a place for Thy dwelling forever" -- and the king turned his face and blessed the whole congregation of Israel; and all the congregation of Israel stood listening. Solomon told how the Lord God had said to David his father (who desired in his heart too to build an house for the Name of the Lord God of Israel), "but the Lord said to David, my father, "For as much as it was in thine heart to build an house for My Name, thou didst well in that it was in thine heart. Notwithstanding thou shalt not build the house, but thy son which shall come forth out of thy loins; he shall build the house for My Name." The Lord therefore hath performed His Word that He hath spoken; for I am risen up in the room of David my father, and am set on the throne of Israel, as the Lord promised and have built the house for the Name of the Lord God of Israel ..." (II Chronicles 6:1-42)
At one point in Solomon's prayer, he questions the Lord, saying: "Now then, O Lord God of Israel, let Thy Word be verified, which Thou hast spoken unto Thy servant David. But will God in very deed dwell with men on the earth? Behold, heaven and the heaven of heavens cannot contain Thee, how much less this house which I have built!" (II Chronicles 6:17-18)
It appears that Solomon struggled with the idea that the same Lord God who filled the heaven of heavens with His glory would/could come forth as a mighty man to bring salvation to the people He has chosen as His bride. (Isaiah 42:13; Isaiah 9:6; John 1:10-11, 14; I Timothy 3:16; Matthew 1:21-23)
What Solomon did not comprehend herein (when referring to his father David's conversation with the Lord) is that the Lord Himself had purposed to come into this world as a Son -- a lowly servant -- to bring us His free gift of salvation. It is He that is the King of kings and Lord of lords, the Alpha and Omega, the first and the last, the beginning and the ending. (Revelation 1:8, 11)
Sadly, we find the same confusion within the modern day religious traditions of men, who find it easier to refer to a tri-une God (God in three persons ideology) than accept that the fact that the Lord God Himself loved His creation so much that after His kindness and love, He willingly became our Saviour. (Titus 3:4-7) This very same Lord God who created the earth and all that is within the earth in the beginning, loved us enough to dwell on the earth in the form of a man, robing Himself in a sin-prone flesh, and yet without sin.
"For consider Him that endured such contradiction of sinners against Himself, lest ye be wearied and faint in your minds." (Hebrews 12:3)
"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." (John 1:10-11)
Solomon referred to this "stranger" when he said, "Moreover, concerning the stranger, which is not of Thy people Israel, but is come from a far country for Thy great Name's sake, and Thy mighty hand, and Thy stretched out arm; if they come and pray in this house. Then hear Thou from the heavens; [even] from Thy dwelling place, and do according to all that the stranger calleth to Thee for; that all people of the earth may know Thy Name, and fear Thee, as doth Thy people Israel, and may know that this house which I have built is called by Thy Name." (II Chronicles 6:32-33; Deuteronomy 9:29; Psalm 89:13)
That stranger (literally translated as foreigner) in the land was Jesus. (Matthew 25:35-43) God manifest in the flesh. (I Timothy 3:16) "Behold, a virgin shall be with child, and shall bring forth a son, and they shall call His Name Emmanuel, which being interpreted is, God with us." (Matthew 1:21-23)
"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." (Isaiah 9:6)
"Wherefore when He comes 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 ... By the which will we are sanctified through the offering of the body of Jesus Christ once for all." (Hebrews 10:5-10; Psalm 40:6-8; John 17:9; Hebrews 9:12)
Again, "By the which will we are sanctified through the offering of the body of Jesus Christ once for all ... but this man, after He had offered one sacrifice for ever sat down on the right hand of God; from henceforth, expecting till His enemies be made His footstool. For by one offering He hath perfected for ever them that are sanctified. Whereof the Holy Ghost also is a witness to us: for after that He had said before: "This is the covenant that I will make with them after those days," saith the Lord, "I will put My laws into their hearts and in their minds will I write them; and their sins and iniquities will I remember no more." (Hebrews 10:12-17; Colossians 3:1; Psalm 110:1; Ephesians 2:18; Hebrews 9:8, 12; John 14:6; Hebrews 7:19; Hebrews 10:1)
"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." (Hebrews 9:15)
One Lord, One Faith, One Baptism. (Ephesians 4:5-6) One God and Father of all who loved us so much that He offered Himself and purged our conscience from dead works to serve Him -- the living God. (Hebrews 9:14)
"I, even I, am the Lord; and beside Me there is no Saviour." (Isaiah 43:11)
"Tell ye, and bring them near; yea, let them take counsel together: who hath declared this from ancient time? who hath told it from that time? have not I the Lord? and there is no God else beside Me; a just God and a Saviour; there is none beside Me." (Isaiah 45:21)
"Yet I am the Lord thy God from the land of Egypt, and thou shalt know no god but Me: for there is no Saviour beside Me." (Hosea 13:4)
And in this current dispensation of grace, the time in which we live, His Name is Jesus. He is the Light of the world, who lighteth every man and woman who is born. He is the Way, the Truth and the Life. (John 14:6) Jesus said, "I and My Father are One." (John 10:30) This is why we look for the one and only Him -- Jesus -- when He shall appear the second time without sin unto salvation. (Hebrews 9:28)
This is why we adorn the doctrine of God our Saviour in all things ... "for the grace of God that brings salvation hath appeared to all men." (Titus 2:11)
"Who His own self bare our sins in His own body on the tree, that we being dead to sins should live unto righteousness, by whose stripes ye were healed. For ye were as sheep going astray; but are now returned unto the Shepherd and Bishop of your souls." (I Peter 2:24-25; Hebrews 9:28; Romans 7:6; Isaiah 53:5-6; Isaiah 40:11)
"Hear, O Israel: The Lord our God is ONE Lord." (Deuteronomy 6:4; Mark 12:28-34) And as Peter (standing with the eleven) declared on the day of Pentecost, "This same Jesus whom ye have crucified is BOTH Lord and Christ." (Acts 2:36-38)
His Name is Jesus! The only Name under heaven whereby ye must be saved. (Acts 4:12)
Step away from the confusion of Solomon and instead stand in the offering plate with our Lord God and Saviour, Jesus the Christ.
Thursday, September 15, 2016
Which Doeth Great Things And Unsearchable; Marvelous Things Without Number: - Part 1483
Often, the word "doeth" is linked with believing in Jesus by faith. In the old covenant side, the word doeth is associated directly with the Law and the Ten Commandments, and the doeth as part of those instructions. When the Lord God came forth as a mighty man to become our Saviour on the cross, we see some cross over from the old when Jesus spoke to the Jews.
But after the cross, whereby the Lord God Himself became the perfect sacrifice for our sins, the doeth that was commanded in the old, should now come forth as a desire to do His will from our heart. In other words, there is an interesting transition taking place -- again, revealing that on the new testament side (the dispensation of grace in which we live today), the Lord has declared peace and good will to all, and from our hearts we should be singing and rejoicing continually, "Glory to God in the highest!" (Luke 2:14) But I digress, somewhat.
In the gospels, Jesus repeatedly preaches the Kingdom of God, and how we must believe on Him who was sent. We must "hear ye Him" -- Jesus -- for He shall save His people from their sins. (Matthew 1:21-23) But as we note from the gospels as well, many did not see or accept Jesus as the prophesied Messiah. The promised Christ that was spoken of by the prophets and psalmist from afore. In fact, those in high places desired to kill Jesus.
In the gospels, Jesus repeatedly preaches the Kingdom of God, and how we must believe on Him who was sent. We must "hear ye Him" -- Jesus -- for He shall save His people from their sins. (Matthew 1:21-23) But as we note from the gospels as well, many did not see or accept Jesus as the prophesied Messiah. The promised Christ that was spoken of by the prophets and psalmist from afore. In fact, those in high places desired to kill Jesus.
As we know, this did not stop Jesus from preaching the good news gospel to anyone who would listen, and those who (like Jesus' disciples) desired in their hearts to "follow Me!" We see this when Jesus is teaching specifically to His disciples on the mountain. He begins with the simple commands of life -- the beatitudes -- and how He -- Jesus has come to fulfill the Law. To make a new covenant with His beloved creation and thus making the first old. (Hebrews 8:13)
"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." (Hebrews 9:15-28)
So, here we find Jesus saying to His disciples on the mountain -- "Think not that I am come to destroy the Law, or the prophets: I am not come to destroy but to fulfill." (Matthew 5:17)
Then Jesus continues by comparing the old teachings with the new and elaborating on how the new testament will differ from the old. In so doing, Jesus is revealing to His twelve disciples what new testament believers in Him by faith should look like, and how His disciples would become that "city on a hill" for Him. (Matthew 5:14-16)
Often, Jesus begins by elaborating on what not to do -- "For I say unto you -- that except your righteousness shall exceed [the righteousness] of the scribes and Pharisees, you shall in no case enter the kingdom of heaven." (Matthew 5:20) "For they being ignorant of God's 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 everyone that believes!" (Romans 10:3-4)
Then comes the doeth -- the instruction of how believers in Jesus by faith in this new testament side differ from those in the world. "Ye have heard that it was said by them of old time -- "Thou shalt not kill" and whosoever shall kill shall be in danger of the judgment. But I say unto you -- that whosoever is angry with his brother without a cause shall be in danger of the judgement: and whosoever shall say to his brother, Raca, shall be in danger of the council: but whosoever shall say, "Thou fool, shall be in danger of hell fire." (Matthew 5:20-25)
Herein, Jesus is changing the law in the first, from the laws written in stone to a new law that He has written in our hearts. From commandments in the old testament -- to faith in our hearts that our salvation might be "by grace, to the end the promise might be sure to all the seed, not to that only which is of the law, but to that also which is of the faith of Abraham, who is the father of us all. (Romans 4:16)
His abundance of love now extending far beyond the Israelites/Jews to the Gentiles, who God has concluded them "all" in unbelief that He might have mercy upon all. (Romans 11:30-36) "For this is My covenant unto them, when I shall take away their sins." (Romans 11:27; Isaiah 27:9) The Lord Jesus Himself -- God becoming our Savior -- the Word made flesh -- in order to transition from the old into the new. This is why there is more than a blank page between the old and the new.
For "death reigned from Adam to Moses, even over them that had not sinned after the similitude of Adam's transgression -- who is the figure of Him that was to come ... 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 5:14-21)
Thus, herein, Jesus (in the gospels) is teaching about the "not" in the old before explaining the "doeth" that comes from desiring more of Him -- Jesus -- within our hearts.
For example, the not -- "Take heed that ye do not your alms before men, to be seen of them: otherwise, ye have no reward of your Father which is in heaven" "Therefore, when thou doest [thine] alms, do not sound a trumpet before thee, as the hypocrites do in the synagogues and in the streets, that they may have glory of men." But rather, as Jesus so aptly points out -- "Verily, I say unto you -- they have their reward. But when thou doest alms, let not thine left hand know what thy right hand doeth; that thine alms may be in secret, and thy Father which seeth in secret Himself shall reward thee openly ..." (Matthew 6:1-4)
Continuing this instruction further, Jesus said, "Therefore whosoever heareth these sayings of Mine, and doeth them, I will liken him unto a wise man, which built his house upon a rock ... And every one that heareth these sayings of Mine, and doeth them not, shall be likened unto a foolish man, which built his house upon the sand." (Matthew 7:24-26) For not everyone that saith unto Me, "Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven, but he that doeth the will of My Father which is in heaven." (Matthew 7:21)
"Whosoever cometh to Me, and hears My sayings, and doeth them, I will shew you to whom he is like ... but he that heareth, and doeth not, is like a man that without a foundation built an house upon the earth; against which the stream did beat vehemently, and immediately it fell; and the ruin of that house was great." (Luke 6:47-49)
Why is the doeth so important? As Jesus said, "For every one that doeth evil hates the Light, neither comes to the Light, lest his deeds should be reproved. But he that doeth truth comes to the Light, that his deeds may be made manifest, that they are wrought in God." (John 3:20-21)
Jesus confirmed that He is the Light of the world.
"There was a man sent from God whose name was John. The same came for a witness to bear witness of that Light, that all [men] through Him might believe ... he was not that Light but was sent to bear witness of that Light. That was the true Light, which lighteth every man that comes into the world. 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 1:1-18)
What else is important? To come full circle, Jesus says, "For [there is] no man [that] doeth any thing in secret, [while] He Himself seeketh to be known openly. If thou do these things, shew thyself to the world." (John 7:4)
In John 9, Jesus states, "As long as I am in the world, I am the Light of the world." (John 9:5) There is a perfect example of this when the Jews did not believe concerning the man that Jesus healed, and received his sight. In that example, Jesus made clay and opened the man's eyes. The Jews even went so far as to question the man's parents, who referred them back to their son for his own testimony, "for the Jews had agreed already that if any man did confess that He was Christ, he should be put out of the synagogue.
But how does this healed man later respond to further questioning by the Jews, that included "Give God the praise: we know this man is a sinner." (John 9:24)
The man says, "Whether he be a sinner [or no], I know not:one thing I know that whereas I was blind, now I see." Then said they to him again, "What did he to thee? How opened he thine eyes?" He answered them, "I have told you already, and ye did not hear. Wherefore would ye hear it again? Will you also be His disciples?" Then they reviled him and said, "Thou are His disciple but we are Moses' disciple. We know that God spake unto Moses; as for this [fellow], we know not from whence He is."
The man answered and said unto them, "Why herein is a marvelous thing, that ye know not from whence He is, and yet He hath opened mine eyes. Now we know that God heareth not sinners, but if any man be a worshipper of God and does His will, him He hears. Since the world began was it not heard that any man opened the eyes of one that was born blind. If this man were not of God He could do nothing." (John 9:1-31)
When Jesus heard that they had cast this man out, "Does thou believe on the Son of God?" He answered and said, "Who is he, Lord, that I might believe on Him?" And Jesus said unto the man, "Thou hast both seen Him, and it is He that talks with thee." And he said. "Lord, I believe." And he worshipped Him. And Jesus said, "For judgement I am come into this world, that they which see not might see; and that they which see might be made blind." (John 9:35-39)
Other scriptures that confirm "doeth" with believing in Jesus by faith? That if any man be a worshipper of God and doeth His will that him He heareth?
Therefore, as Jesus said, "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 dwells in Me, He doeth the works." (John 14:10)
"And the law is not of faith: but, the man that doeth them shall live in them." (Galatians 3:12)
"Knowing that whatsoever good thing any man doeth, the same shall he receive of the Lord, whether he be bond or free." (Ephesians 6:8) [Note: Jew or Gentile]
"If ye know that He is righteous, ye know that every one that doeth righteousness is born of Him." (I John 2:29)
"Little children, let no man deceive you: he that doeth righteousness is righteous, even as He is righteous." (I John 3:7)
And finally, "In this the children of God are manifest, and the children of the devil: whosoever doeth not righteousness is not of God, neither he that loveth not his brother." (I John 3:10)
"Beloved, follow not that which is evil, but that which is good. He that doeth good is of God: but he that doeth evil hath not seen God." (3 John 1:11)
"Whosoever cometh to Me, and hears My sayings, and doeth them, I will shew you to whom he is like ... but he that heareth, and doeth not, is like a man that without a foundation built an house upon the earth; against which the stream did beat vehemently, and immediately it fell; and the ruin of that house was great." (Luke 6:47-49)
Why is the doeth so important? As Jesus said, "For every one that doeth evil hates the Light, neither comes to the Light, lest his deeds should be reproved. But he that doeth truth comes to the Light, that his deeds may be made manifest, that they are wrought in God." (John 3:20-21)
Jesus confirmed that He is the Light of the world.
"There was a man sent from God whose name was John. The same came for a witness to bear witness of that Light, that all [men] through Him might believe ... he was not that Light but was sent to bear witness of that Light. That was the true Light, which lighteth every man that comes into the world. 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 1:1-18)
What else is important? To come full circle, Jesus says, "For [there is] no man [that] doeth any thing in secret, [while] He Himself seeketh to be known openly. If thou do these things, shew thyself to the world." (John 7:4)
In John 9, Jesus states, "As long as I am in the world, I am the Light of the world." (John 9:5) There is a perfect example of this when the Jews did not believe concerning the man that Jesus healed, and received his sight. In that example, Jesus made clay and opened the man's eyes. The Jews even went so far as to question the man's parents, who referred them back to their son for his own testimony, "for the Jews had agreed already that if any man did confess that He was Christ, he should be put out of the synagogue.
But how does this healed man later respond to further questioning by the Jews, that included "Give God the praise: we know this man is a sinner." (John 9:24)
The man says, "Whether he be a sinner [or no], I know not:one thing I know that whereas I was blind, now I see." Then said they to him again, "What did he to thee? How opened he thine eyes?" He answered them, "I have told you already, and ye did not hear. Wherefore would ye hear it again? Will you also be His disciples?" Then they reviled him and said, "Thou are His disciple but we are Moses' disciple. We know that God spake unto Moses; as for this [fellow], we know not from whence He is."
The man answered and said unto them, "Why herein is a marvelous thing, that ye know not from whence He is, and yet He hath opened mine eyes. Now we know that God heareth not sinners, but if any man be a worshipper of God and does His will, him He hears. Since the world began was it not heard that any man opened the eyes of one that was born blind. If this man were not of God He could do nothing." (John 9:1-31)
When Jesus heard that they had cast this man out, "Does thou believe on the Son of God?" He answered and said, "Who is he, Lord, that I might believe on Him?" And Jesus said unto the man, "Thou hast both seen Him, and it is He that talks with thee." And he said. "Lord, I believe." And he worshipped Him. And Jesus said, "For judgement I am come into this world, that they which see not might see; and that they which see might be made blind." (John 9:35-39)
Other scriptures that confirm "doeth" with believing in Jesus by faith? That if any man be a worshipper of God and doeth His will that him He heareth?
Therefore, as Jesus said, "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 dwells in Me, He doeth the works." (John 14:10)
"And the law is not of faith: but, the man that doeth them shall live in them." (Galatians 3:12)
"Knowing that whatsoever good thing any man doeth, the same shall he receive of the Lord, whether he be bond or free." (Ephesians 6:8) [Note: Jew or Gentile]
"And the world passes away, and the lust thereof: but he that doeth the will of God abides for ever." (I John 2:17)
"If ye know that He is righteous, ye know that every one that doeth righteousness is born of Him." (I John 2:29)
"Little children, let no man deceive you: he that doeth righteousness is righteous, even as He is righteous." (I John 3:7)
And finally, "In this the children of God are manifest, and the children of the devil: whosoever doeth not righteousness is not of God, neither he that loveth not his brother." (I John 3:10)
"Beloved, follow not that which is evil, but that which is good. He that doeth good is of God: but he that doeth evil hath not seen God." (3 John 1:11)
Yes, in believing there is also a doeth but the doeth is not of works lest any man should boast, but rather the doeth is of thankfulness for the work that the Lord wroughts in us ... and this thankfulness comes from the heart. Stand in the offering plate.
Wednesday, September 14, 2016
That Their Hearts Might Be Comforted, Being Knit Together In Love And Unto All Riches of the Full Assurance of Understanding - Part 1482
"For Christ is the end of the Law for righteousness to every one that believes ..." (Romans 10:4) And, as a consequence of believing in Jesus by faith, we become "His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them." (Ephesians 2:10)
"For as ye in times past have not believed God, yet have now obtained mercy through their unbelief: even so, have these also now not believed, that through your mercy they also may obtain mercy ... for God hath concluded them all in unbelief, that He might have mercy upon all." (Romans 10:30-31)
Herein, we begin to discern the difference between the old covenant of ordinances and the Law, and the new testament whereby the Lord of glory personally delivered His last will and testament to us, so that we might be clothed in His righteousness. "By so much was Jesus made a surety of a better testament ..." (Hebrews 7:22) In this scripture, we are reminded that in this new time, we are saved by His grace. Through faith in His precious Name. (Ephesians 2:8; Acts 4:12) Because of His kindness and His love for His beloved creation did God our Saviour toward man appear. (Titus 3:4-7; I Timothy 3:16; Isaiah 9:6; Isaiah 42:13; Revelation 1:8, 11)
And that Name which we hold so dear is Jesus -- both Lord and Christ! (Acts 2:36)
The good news gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ does not end there. His decision to bring forth His gift of salvation, declaring peace and good will to all in this current dispensation of grace was decided before the foundation of the world was even formed. (Luke 2:14) Such a contradiction -- that a holy God would even consider robing Himself in human flesh so that we might know Him personally, and respond to His invitation to sup with us.
The Word made flesh, and dwelt among us. (John 1:14) The same Word that was with God and was God in the beginning. (John 1:1-18) The same Lord's Christ that Simeon saw in the temple in Jerusalem when Jesus' parents brought him after the custom of the law (before the cross). Indeed, Simeon said, "For mine eyes have seen Thy salvation. A light to lighten the Gentiles, and the glory of Thy people Israel." (Luke 2:25-34)
And the Lord did so according to what we know and recognize as "the commandment of God our Saviour." "But hath in due times manifested His Word through preaching, which is committed unto me according to the commandment of God our Saviour ..." (Titus 1:3)
While we ourselves were sometimes foolish, disobedient, deceived, serving diverse lusts and pleasures, living in malice and envy, and still needlessly hating one another, there we see God giving us His Name for us to behold and cherish in these last times. A summary of everything that was prophesied by the old testament prophets and the psalmist songs. (Titus 3:3)
"But now He hath obtained a more excellent ministry, by how much also He is the Mediator of a better covenant, which was established upon better promises ... for if that first covenant had been faultless, then should no place have been sought for the second. For finding fault with them, He saith, "Behold, the days come," He saith, "when I will make a new covenant with the house of Israel and with the house of Judah, 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, and I regarded them not," saith the Lord, "For this is the covenant that I will make with the House of Israel after those days," saith the Lord; "I will put My laws into their mind and write them in their hearts, and I will be to them a God, and they shall be to Me a people. And they shall not teach every man his neighbour [but] every man his brother, saying, "Know the Lord: for all shall know Me, from the least to the greatest.
For I will be merciful to their unrighteousness, and their sins and their iniquities will I remember no more." In that He saith, "A new covenant, He hath made the first old. Now that which decays, and waxes old, is ready to vanish away." (Hebrews 8:6-13)
In other words, there is more than a blank page between the old and the new. There is a distinction whereby the lines have been drawn in the sand so that we might know and understand that God had to conclude them all in unbelief in order that He might have mercy upon all." (Romans 11:32)
But in this current dispensation of grace, many who profess to believe have not studied His Word for their understanding, and as Hosea the prophet pointed out, "My people perish for lack of knowledge." (Hosea 4:6) But it does not have to be this way. The Lord God came forth as a mighty man so that we might freely receive His gift of salvation. (Isaiah 42:13; Isaiah 9:6)
God became our Saviour. (Titus 3:4-7) God manifest in the flesh. (I Timothy 3:16)
"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." (John 1:10-11)
And when we repent of our sin, and are baptized in the Name of the Lord Jesus by immersion/buried, we shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost. Not maybe but you shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost. His Spirit dwelling within. The Comforter who speaks of Jesus. His peace and love and mercy bubbling within so that our cup runneth over. It is no wonder that the first 3,000 souls saved ate their meat with gladness and singleness of heart on the day of Pentecost.
There is no higher calling. Reach out to Jesus today, and experience His abundance of joy in your heart. Why? So that we, the Gentiles should be fellow heirs and of the same body and partakers of His promise in Christ by the gospel: whereof I was made a minister, according to the gift of the grace of God given unto me by the effectual working of His power."
And when this happens, we know that we have been risen with Christ. Our hearts rejoice, praising God our Saviour.
And, "if ye then be risen with Christ, seek those things which are above, where Christ sits on the right hand of God. Set your affection on things above, not on things of the earth. for ye are dead, and your life is hid with Christ in God. When Christ [who is] our life shall appear, then shall ye also appear with Him in glory ..." (Colossians 3:1-4)
Receive the full assurance of understanding and acknowledge the mystery of God, and of the Father, and of Christ, in whom are hid all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge. (Colossians 2:1-3) Study to shew ourselves approved unto God, a workman that need not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the Word of truth. (II Timothy 2:15) So, that when ye read, ye may understand the apostles' knowledge in the mystery of Christ, which in other ages was not made known unto the sons of men, as it is now revealed unto His holy apostles and prophets by the Spirit, that the Gentiles should be fellow heirs, and of the same body, and partakers of His promise in Christ by the gospel: whereof I was made a minister, according to the gift of the grace of God given unto me by the effectual working of His power." (Ephesians 3:6-7)
"In Him dwelleth all the fullness of the Godhead bodily, and ye are complete in Him, which is the Head of all principality and power, in whom also ye are circumcised with the circumcision made without hands, in putting off the body of the sins of the flesh by the circumcision of Christ ... buried with Him in baptism, wherein also ye are risen with [Him] through the faith of the operation of God, who hath raised Him from the dead, and you, being dead in your sins and the uncircumcision of your flesh, hath He quickened together with Him, having forgiven you all trespasses; blotting out the handwriting of ordinances that was against us, which was contrary to us, and took it out of the way, nailing it to His cross; and having spoiled principalities and powers, He made a shew of them openly, triumphing over them in it." (Colossians 2:9-15)
Stand in the offering plate.
For the scripture saith, "Whosoever believes on Him shall not be ashamed, for there is no difference between the Jew and the Greek: for the same Lord over all is rich unto all that call upon Him -- for whosoever shall call upon the Name of the Lord shall be saved.
How then shall they call on Him in whom they have not believed? And how shall they believe in Him of whom they have not heard? And how shall they hear without a preacher? And how shall they preach except they be sent? As it is written, "how beautiful are the feet of them that preach the gospel of peace, and bring glad tidings of good things!" (Romans 10:11-15; Isaiah 52:7)
Receive the full assurance of understanding and acknowledge the mystery of God, and of the Father, and of Christ, in whom are hid all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge. (Colossians 2:1-3) Study to shew ourselves approved unto God, a workman that need not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the Word of truth. (II Timothy 2:15) So, that when ye read, ye may understand the apostles' knowledge in the mystery of Christ, which in other ages was not made known unto the sons of men, as it is now revealed unto His holy apostles and prophets by the Spirit, that the Gentiles should be fellow heirs, and of the same body, and partakers of His promise in Christ by the gospel: whereof I was made a minister, according to the gift of the grace of God given unto me by the effectual working of His power." (Ephesians 3:6-7)
"In Him dwelleth all the fullness of the Godhead bodily, and ye are complete in Him, which is the Head of all principality and power, in whom also ye are circumcised with the circumcision made without hands, in putting off the body of the sins of the flesh by the circumcision of Christ ... buried with Him in baptism, wherein also ye are risen with [Him] through the faith of the operation of God, who hath raised Him from the dead, and you, being dead in your sins and the uncircumcision of your flesh, hath He quickened together with Him, having forgiven you all trespasses; blotting out the handwriting of ordinances that was against us, which was contrary to us, and took it out of the way, nailing it to His cross; and having spoiled principalities and powers, He made a shew of them openly, triumphing over them in it." (Colossians 2:9-15)
Stand in the offering plate.
Monday, September 12, 2016
But After That The Kindness And Love of God Our Saviour Toward Man Appeared - Part 1481
"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 ..." (Titus 1:1)
The Lord has been so faithful in personally delivering us His gift of salvation -- not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to His mercy He saved us, by the washing of regeneration and renewing of the Holy Ghost, which He shed on us abundantly through Jesus Christ our Saviour, that being justified by His grace, we should be made heirs according to the hope of eternal life." (Titus 3:4-7)
Never in this current dispensation of grace has the Lord wavered in His invitation to come to Him, and be clothed in His righteousness through water baptism in His Name -- the precious Name of the Jesus (who is both Lord and Christ -- Acts 2:36-38) Since declaring peace and good will to all, the Lord has been faithful so that we who serve Him 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 ... " (Titus 2:10-15)
Let us be glad and rejoice, never forgetting to "adorn the doctrine of God our Saviour in all things!" (Titus 2:10) Stand in the offering plate.
From Revelation 17:
"For all nations have drunk of the wine of the wrath of her fornication, and the kings of the earth have committed fornication with her, and the merchants of the earth are waxed rich through the abundance of her delicacies. And I heard another voice from heaven, saying, "Come out of her, My people, that ye be not partakers of her sins, and that ye receive not of her plagues, for her sins have reached unto heaven, and God hath remembered her iniquities."
Reward her even as she rewarded you, and double unto her double according to her works: in the cup which she hath filled fill to her double. "How much she hath glorified herself, and lived deliciously, so much torment and sorrow give her: for she saith in her heart, I sit a queen, and am no widow, and shall see no sorrow." Therefore shall her plagues come in one day, death, and mourning, and famine; and she shall be utterly burned with fire: for strong is the Lord God who judges her.
And the kings of the earth, who have committed fornication and lived deliciously with her, shall bewail her, and lament for her, when they shall see the smoke of her burning, standing afar off for the fear of her torment, saying, "Alas, alas that great city Babylon, that mighty city! for in one hour is thy judgment come." And the merchants of the earth shall weep and mourn over her; for no man buys their merchandise any more. The merchandise of gold, and silver, and precious stones, and of pearls, and fine linen, and purple, and silk, and scarlet, and all thyine wood, and all manner vessels of ivory, and all manner vessels of most precious wood, and of brass, and iron, and marble, and cinnamon, and odours, and ointments, and frankincense, and wine, and oil, and fine flour, and wheat, and beasts, and sheep, and horses, and chariots, and slaves, and souls of men.
And the fruits that thy soul lusted after are departed from thee, and all things which were dainty and goodly are departed from thee, and thou shalt find them no more at all. The merchants of these things, which were made rich by her, shall stand afar off for the fear of her torment, weeping and wailing ... " (Revelation 18)
And the fruits that thy soul lusted after are departed from thee, and all things which were dainty and goodly are departed from thee, and thou shalt find them no more at all. The merchants of these things, which were made rich by her, shall stand afar off for the fear of her torment, weeping and wailing ... " (Revelation 18)
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