Henceforth, There Is Laid Up For Us Who Believe A Crown of Righesouness - Part 1517

"Who art Thou, Lord?" asked Saul, when he was suddenly stopped by a bright light which shone all around him, while enroute to Damascus. 

Jesus said unto Saul,  "I am Jesus!"

The very same Jesus who shall save His people from their sin. His name Immanuel, which interpreted means, "God with us." (Matthew 1:21-23) This very SAME Jesus who is both Lord and Christ. (Acts 2:36) Indeed, neither is there salvation in any other name. (Acts 4:12) In no one else but Jesus can salvation be found. Only Jesus!

This is why the council called the apostles and commanded them -- and in fact, dictated to them that they were not to speak to anyone about Jesus. These were not even to whisper His Name. Forbidden by the powers that be to quieten the very Word that these disciples desired in their heart to bring forth.

Thus, as we learn from the scriptures, Peter's response to the council was simple. Peter told them to decide for themselves whether it is right before God to obey individuals rather than God. Paul also confirmed this point when he said that it was the God of our fathers who had appeared to him as he journeyed on the road to Damascus. 

Paul (as Saul) was told that it was the God of our fathers who had met him and chosen him, when his only mission at that time was to find those who believed in Jesus and jail them. That was certainly his mission for that day.

Thankfully, the Lord had another mission for Saul, and soon, renamed as Paul, he would learn God's will for Paul's life. So the light shone all around him, stopping him (and those that were with Saul in their tracks. As we read, Saul became blind. Throughout the account in Acts, it is important to note that Paul had "seen the Just One" and heard His voice speaking directly to his heart.

Can you imagine what Saul must have been thinking, when he uttered the words, "Who art Thou, Lord?" As we know, Saul did not have to ask twice, or give it some thought, or ponder what he would say. His question was simple. "Who art Thou, Lord?"

Jesus told Saul right there and then, "I am Jesus whom ye persecute. it is hard for thee to kick against the pricks." (Acts 9:4-6)  As we learn, Saul could no longer go against the pricks. Once and for all, he had to make a decision for Jesus.

This is why the scriptures tell us that the Name of Jesus is ABOVE every other name in both Heaven and on earth. At the name of Jesus every knee shall bow and every tongue confess that Jesus the Christ is Lord. As Christians, we are renewed, justified, and sanctified in Him -- Jesus the Christ. He alone is the True God that gives eternal life.

God manifest in the flesh. (I Timothy 3:16) The Lord came forth as a mighty man. (Isaiah 42:13; Isaiah 9:6) And this same Lord is Jesus who Peter (standing with the eleven) on the day of Pentecost identified as both Lord and Christ. (Acts 2:36)

Jesus -- Alpha and Omega, the first and the last, the beginning and the ending. "But after that 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)

He became the perfect sacrifice for you and I. This is why we look 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 2:13-14)

This is why these things we speak, and exhort with all long suffering and doctrine, preaching the Word both in season and out of season, reproving and rebuking, if necessary to ensure that the truth of the good news gospel of Jesus Christ will be known to one and all. (Acts 2:36-47; II Timothy 4:2)

And just like Saul, and the fishermen disciples before him, who stopped everything to follow Jesus, we fight a good fight -- keeping the faith. "Henceforth, there is laid up for me [and you] a crown of righteousness which the Lord, the righteous judge shall give me at that day, and not to me only, but to all them also that love His appearing." (II Timothy 4:7-8)

Do not delay. Reach out to Jesus today. Be water baptized in His Name -- the Name of the Lord Jesus Christ -- so that you too shall receive the Holy Ghost. Stand in the offering plate.

And Ye Shall Also Bear Witness, Because Ye Have Been With Me From the Beginning - Part 1516

There is only ONE Lord. There is only ONE faith. There Is only ONE baptism. (Ephesians 4:5)

As a consequence, we as believers ought to be earnestly contending for this ONE FAITH - the SAME faith - that was ONCE delivered to God’s people. Remember that God has declared that as far as He is concerned, no man has the authority to lay any other foundation. For this one faith - the foundation of Jesus Christ - has already been laid. Yes, the foundation is JESUS the Christ.

The Church’s ONE and ONLY foundation was built upon the Holy Ghost teachings as revealed to the Apostles and Prophets chosen of God. These teachings are solid rock teachings of God, whose Word lives and abides forever. JESUS the Christ (God manifest in flesh)is Himself the Chief corner stone. The scriptures attest to this point.

Further, if any man dares to advance any other doctrinal teaching other than that which is delivered of God, then believers ought not to congregate in fellowship with them. Let me say this again. If the teachings are contrary to God’s instructed Words, then we should not congregate in fellowship with them. Why not? Because if we do, is this not repeating Adam and Eve's actions in the beginning -- once again inheriting a curse upon themselves?

Therefore, when these false self-appointed religious opponents of the truth of God’s Word arise, we should be going in the other direction. Indeed, as the scriptures point out, these religious folks originally only came in among us to spy out the liberty that we have found in JESUS. But as the scriptures also state, they were not of us. Actually, they never were. Therefore, a departure from this ONE FAITH only reiterates the fact that their teachings are not founded or structured upon the gospel teachings that were delivered by the holy Spirit of JESUS.

Note that the first believers continued STEADFASTLY in the Apostles doctrinal teachings. (Acts 2:36-47) Where else could they go? For the very Word of God was coming to them. The Word of God was not coming out from them, as so many profess today when they teach the traditions of men. But I digress. In accepting the good news gospel of the Lord Jesus Christ then, these people were acknowledging that the original teachings were indeed God’s Word!

JESUS had instructed His chosen twelve apostles that they were to go to Jerusalem and stay there until, they should receive the promised blessed gift of His holy Spirit. And upon receiving His Spirit, then and only then were they to be His witnesses everywhere, even to every corner of the earth. This is why the holy Spirit of God worked with them as they preached, confirming their words with mighty signs and wonders. Now if God confirmed their word, then effectively it is no longer their word but indeed it is as God’s spoken and confirmed Word.

This presentation will be one of many which we hope will establish that the Word of our ONE LORD is forever settled in both heaven and earth. Indeed, that the Word of God is in no need to be changed or altered by men and/or women endeavouring to add to or diminish from the original Word which was sent forth of God, beginning at Jerusalem. The scriptures.

The new testament Church started at Jerusalem on the day of Pentecost. In Acts chapter 2, 3000 people gladly believed the gospel and were baptized into the ONE BAPTISM where believers are baptized into the Name of the Lord JESUS the Christ. (Acts 2:36)

As Peter (standing with the eleven) said -- "This SAME Jesus whom ye have crucified is BOTH LORD AND CHRIST!"

Not another but the One and Only King of kings and Lord of lords. Alpha and Omega, the first and the last, the beginning and the ending. The Spirit of truth whom the world cannot receive, because it sees Him not, neither knows Him -- for He dwells with you [now] and shall be in you. As Jesus said, "I will not leave you comfortless. I will come to you." (John 14:17)

Thus, if God Confirms His Word, then no man has the right to disannul it. Stand in the offering plate.

A Good Name Is More Desirable Than Great Wealth - Part 1515

In the beginning, God. (Genesis 1:1) In the beginning was the Word and the Word was with God and the Word was God. The same was in the beginning with God. (John 1:1-2) [Note that John 1:2 does not state that "He was in the beginning with God" as some might profess but rather -- the SAME was in the beginning with God. There is a reason for this.

Throughout the old and new, God always attributed to Himself a Name. Each Name had a particular meaning, given primarily according to the circumstance. Indeed, when you do a quick search for the Name of God, we find that there are more than 600 references of Names God used in the scriptures. Some of His Names are readily known, while others are not as popular. Many of His Names are referenced on the old covenant side -- which we will address in a separate blog.

For this day, we as believers in the good news gospel by faith, should also understand that God also has given us a Name in this current dispensation of grace. That Name is Jesus.

"And she shall bring forth a son, and thou shalt call His Name JESUS for He shall save His people from their sins. Now all this was done, that it might be fulfilled which was spoken of the Lord by the prophet, saying, "Behold, a virgin shall be with child and shall bring forth a son and they shall call His Name Emmanuel, meaning, God with us." (Matthew 1:21-23; Luke 1:31; John 1:29; Isaiah 7:14)

" ... thou shalt call His Name Jesus!"

"But we see Jesus, who was made a little lower than the angels for the suffering of death, crowned with glory and honour, that He -- by the grace of God -- should taste death for every man. For it became Him, for whom are all things, and by whom are all things, in bringing many sons to glory and honour; to make the captain of their salvation perfect through sufferings. For both He that sanctifies and they who are sanctified are all of one, for which cause He is not ashamed to call them brethren, saying, "I will declare Thy Name unto My brethren, in the midst of the church will I sing praise unto Thee." And again, "I will put My trust in Him." And again, "Behold, I and the children which God hath given Me." (Hebrews 2:6-13)

What does this mean, particularly for those just new to the gospel?

The scriptures state: "Forasmuch then as the children are partakers of flesh and blood, He also Himself likewise took part of the same; that through death He might destroy Him that had power of death (that is the devil) and deliver them who through fear of death were all their lifetime subject to bondage -- for verily, HE TOOK NOT ON HIM THE NATURE OF ANGELS, BUT HE TOOK ON HIM THE SEED OF ABRAHAM." (Hebrews 2:14-16; John 1:10-11, 14; Colossians 2:15; II Timothy 2:10; Luke 1:74)

God manifest in the flesh. (I Timothy 3:16) He prepared Himself a body -- becoming clothed in sin-prone flesh, without ever having submitted to sin. But He did so because He loved us.

"Wherefore, in all things it behoved Him to be made like unto [His] brethren, that He might be a merciful and faithful high priest in things [pertaining] to God, to make reconciliation for the sins of the people ...for in that He Himself hath suffered being tempted, He is able to succour them that are tempted. Wherefore, holy brethren, partakers of the heavenly calling, consider the Apostle and High Priest of our profession Christ Jesus ..." (Hebrews 2:17-18; Hebrews 3:1; Philippians 2:7; Hebrews 4:15-16; Hebrews 5:1-10)

"For we have not an high priest which cannot be touched with the feeling of our infirmities; but was in all points tempted like as we are yet without sin." (Hebrews 4:15; Isaiah 53:3-5; Luke 22:28; II Corinthians 5:21; Ephesians 2:18)

God Himself 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)

This explains why Peter (standing with the eleven) on the day of Pentecost told those present that this same Jesus whom ye have crucified is both Lord and Christ. (Acts 2:36) The Lord had come forth as a mighty man. (Isaiah 42:13)

"Ye men of Israel, hear these words; Jesus of Nazareth, a man approved of God among you by miracles and wonders and signs, which God did by Him in the midst of you, as ye yourselves also know: Him, being delivered by the determinate counsel and foreknowledge of God, ye have taken, and by wicked hands have crucified and slain: whom God hath raised up, having loosed the pains of death: because it was not possible that He should be holden of it.

For David speaks concerning Him, "I foresaw the Lord always before my face, for He is on my right hand, that I should not be moved. Therefore, did my heart rejoice, and my tongue was glad; moreover also my flesh shall rest in hope: because Thou wilt not leave my soul in hell, neither wilt Thou suffer Thine Holy One to see corruption. Thou hast made known to me the ways of life; Thou shalt make me full of joy with Thy countenance." (Acts 2:22-28)

Peter, standing with the eleven in one accord continues, saying: "Men [and] brethren, let me freely speak unto you of the patriarch David, that he is both dead and buried, and his sepulchre is with us unto this day. Therefore being a prophet, and knowing that God had sworn with an oath to him, that of the fruit of his loins, according to the flesh, He would raise up Christ to sit on His throne; He seeing this before spake of the resurrection of Christ, that His soul was not left in hell, neither His flesh did see corruption.

This Jesus hath God raised up, whereof we all are witnesses. Therefore, being by the right hand of God exalted, and having received of the Father the promise of the Holy Ghost, He hath shed forth this, which ye now see and hear. For David is not ascended into the heavens: but he saith himself, "The LORD said unto my Lord, Sit thou on my right hand, until I make Thy foes Thy footstool."

Therefore, let all the house of Israel know assuredly, that God hath made that same Jesus, whom ye have crucified, both Lord and Christ. Now when they heard [this] they were pricked in their heart, and said unto Peter and to the rest of the apostles, "Men [and] brethren, what shall we do?"

Then Peter said unto them, "Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the Name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost. For the promise is unto you, and to your children, and to all that are afar off, [even] as many as the Lord our God shall call."

Jesus -- whom all the fullness of the Godhead dwelt bodily. (Colossians 2:9)

"Wherefore, God hath highly exalted Him and given Him a Name which is above every Name, that at the Name of Jesus, every knee should bow, of [those/things] in heaven, and [those/things] in earth, and [those/things] under the earth .... [that] EVERY TONGUE SHOULD CONFESS THAT JESUS CHRIST IS LORD, TO THE GLORY OF GOD THE FATHER." (Philippians 2:5-11)

"This is the stone which was set at ought of you builders, which is become the Head of the corner. Neither is there salvation in any other, for there is none other Name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved." (Acts 4:11-12)

"And God said unto Moses, "I AM THAT I AM" and He said, "Thus shalt thou say unto the children of Israel, I AM hath sent me unto you." (Exodus 3:14)

"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)

Jesus said, "I Am Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the ending," saith the Lord, "which is, and which was, and which is to come, the Almighty." (Revelation 1:8)

Jesus is the King of kings and Lord of lords. He is our All in all. A Prince and Saviour.

"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; Romans 3:25; Hebrews 3:1)

Jesus said, "I AM the Way, the Truth, and the Life. No man comes to the Father but by Me." Then Jesus goes on to tell Philip and the other disciples, "If ye had known Me, ye should have known My Father also; and from henceforth, ye know Him and have seen Him." (John 14:6-7)

Thus, "whatsoever ye shall ask in My Name, that will I do, that the Father may be glorified in the Son. If ye shall ask anything in My Name, I will do it ..." (John 14:13-14; Matthew 7:7; John 13:31)

One Lord, One Faith, One Baptism. (Ephesians 4:5)

Stand in the offering plate.

Mercy and Truth Are Met Together; Righteousness And Peace Have Kissed Each Other - Part 1514

"The Lord is nigh unto all them that call upon Him, to all that call upon Him in truth." (Psalm 145:18)

Do you remember when Paul and Barnabas fled to Lystra and Derbe, cities of Lycaonia, and they asked a very pointed question. "Sirs, why do ye these things?" It is an interesting question because it positions us to ask why we believe certain traditions of men, and to also search the scriptures for His truth.

When Jesus walked upon this earth, He told His disciples, "I am the Way, the Truth, and the Life. No man cometh to the Father but by Me." (John 14:6)

Jesus also clarified what He meant when He said, "Thy Word is truth." (John 17:17)

Moreover, the psalmist wrote, "Thy Word is true from the beginning: and every one of Thy righteous judgments endures for ever." (Psalm 119:160)

And on the new testament side, the scribe said unto Jesus, "Well, Master, Thou hast said the truth: for there is One God; and there is none other but He ..." (Mark 12:32)

Just before the cross, Jesus prayed -- "I have given them Thy Word; and the world hath hated them, because they are not of the world, even as I am not of the world. I pray not that Thou should take them out of the world, but that Thou should keep them from the evil. They are not of the world, even as I am not of the world. Sanctify them through Thy truth: Thy Word is truth. As Thou hast sent Me into the world, even so have I also sent them into the world. And for their sakes, I sanctify Myself, that they also might be sanctified through the truth. Neither pray I for these alone, but for them also which shall believe on Me through their word ..." (John 17:14-20)

There is a message here that needs to be understood. When we hide His Word in our hearts, we are strengthened knowing that the foundation of God stands sure. (II Timothy 2:19) And in so doing, we need to make full proof of our ministry. (II Timothy 4:5)

We need to ensure that our communications are effectual, and that the good news gospel message that we transmit to others is based on His Word. (Philemon 1:6) The Word and the S/spirit must agree. (John 3:1-21)

"For every one that doeth evil hates the light, neither cometh 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)

In this context, the Lord has given each and every one of us a purpose -- a calling, as some might say so that we can be wrought in God our Saviour. (Titus 3:4-7) That we could come before Him responding to His kindness and mercy -- when He Himself who knew no sin became the perfect sacrifice on the cross.

This is why we can be confident in our faith because we are members of His body -- the body of Christ. Jesus is the Head. The chief cornerstone. The Rock of all ages. 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)

Therefore, our faith in Jesus is not without a solid foundation of truth. Indeed, we are to remain faithful in the apostolic doctrine, which Jesus (after He was taken up) through the Holy Ghost gave commandments to the apostles. (Acts 2:36-47; Acts 1:2-3)

The foundation is the Word of God. "For the Word of the Lord is right; and all His works are done in truth." (Psalm 33:4) Who is the Word? The Word that was with God and was God and was made flesh so that we might experience salvation and eternal life. That's right. The Word is Jesus. And what did Jesus say to those who follow Him --believing on His Name?

"And ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free." (John 8:32) 

This is why we need, like David the psalmist a song in our heart, that sings the following: "Lead me in Thy truth, and teach me: for thou art the God of my salvation; on thee do I wait all the day." (Psalm 25:5) So that "truth shall spring out of the earth; and righteousness shall look down from heaven." (Psalm 85:11)

"For His merciful kindness is great toward us: and the truth of the Lord endureth for ever. Praise ye the Lord." (Psalms 117:2)

And another favourite scripture of mine?

"Before the Lord (for He cometh, for He cometh to judge the earth), He shall judge the world with righteousness, and the people with His truth." (Psalms 96:13)

How do we get there? By asking the Lord Jesus for His daily guidance and instruction.

"Teach me Thy way, O Lord; I will walk in Thy truth: unite my heart to fear Thy Name." (Psalm 86:11)

"Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that need not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the Word of truth." (II Timothy 2:15)

". . . yea, let God be true, but every man a liar; as it is written."  (Romans 3:4)

He left us His witness so that we should turn from these earthly vanities unto the living God -- who willingly became our Saviour.

"We also are men of like passions with you, and preach unto you that ye should turn from these vanities unto the living God, which made heaven and earth, and the sea, and all things that are therein, who in times past suffered all nations to walk in their own ways. Nevertheless, He left not Himself without witness, in that He did good, and gave us rain from heaven, and fruitful seasons, filling our hearts with food and gladness." (Acts 14:6-18)

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

"Sirs, why do ye these things?"

Still, for us, there is laid up a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge shall give at that day, and not to me only, but unto all them also that love His appearing. Stand in the offering plate.

Sing Unto Him A New Song, Becoming Partakers of Grace, Filled With the Fruits of Righteousness In Christ Jesus - Part 1513

“Thy Word have I hid in mine heart, that I might not sin against thee.” (Psalm 119:11)

"For nothing is secret, that shall not be made manifest; neither [any thing] hid, that shall not be known and come abroad." (Luke 8:17) In other words, nothing shall be hid from those who love the Lord with all their heart, their soul, their mind, and their strength. (Mark 12:29-31; Deuteronomy 6:4)

Today, I happened upon Isaiah 42 wherein the Lord Jesus becomes the focus. But when one reads commentaries about this prophecy (in which the Lord is speaking through Isaiah), the content is mostly misunderstood. In part, this is because there is a huge misconception regarding the old covenant (Law) and the new testament (Grace). Others are not aware of the period of silence between the two time frames, and thus, don't understand that the Lord told His people that because of their desire to worship other gods, they would never enter into His rest. Thankfully, in this dispensation of grace, the Lord declared peace and good will to all.

Let's examine how the Lord has fit this passage of scripture into the "mystery" that was held in the bosom of the Father from the beginning of the world. Please note that the opening -- My Servant -- in this context means My Chosen One.

"Behold My servant, whom I uphold; Mine elect, [in whom] My soul delighteth; I have put My Spirit upon Him: He shall bring forth judgment to the Gentiles. He shall not cry, nor lift up, nor cause His voice to be heard in the street. A bruised reed shall He not break, and the smoking flax shall He not quench: He shall bring forth judgment unto truth." (Isaiah 42:1-3)

In Isaiah, the Lord is speaking about the things of the future. When we read the same passage of scripture in Matthew 12:18, it has already or is in the process of being fulfilled. Herein, the Pharisees held a council against Jesus and how them might destroy Him. Jesus withdraws Himself, charging the great multitudes who followed and were healed not to make Him known. (Matthew 12:14-16)

"Behold, My Servant, whom I have chosen; My beloved, in whom My soul is well pleased: I will put My Spirit upon Him, and He shall shew judgment to the Gentiles. He shall not strive, nor cry; neither shall any man hear His voice in the streets. A bruised reed shall He not break and smoking flax shall He not quench, till He send forth judgment unto victory. And in His Name shall the Gentiles trust." (Matthew 12:18-21)

This happened when Jesus was baptized by John the Baptist. The heavens were opened unto Him and John saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove, and lighting upon Him, and lo, a voice from heaven, saying, "This is My beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased." (Matthew 3:16-17; Mark 1:11; Luke 3:22; Luke 4:18-19)

"For He whom God hath sent speaks the words of God; for God gives not the Spirit by measure unto Him." (John 3:34)

Because of the glory of His grace, "wherein He hath made us accepted in the beloved, in whom we have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of sins, according to the riches of His grace, wherein He hath abounded toward us in all wisdom and prudence; having made known unto us the mystery of His will, according to His good pleasure, which He hath purposed in Himself, that in the dispensation of the fullness of times, He might gather together in one all things in Christ ... in 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." (Ephesians 1: 6-11)

"And the Spirit of the Lord shall rest upon Him; the Spirit of wisdom and understanding the Spirit of counsel and might; the Spirit of knowledge and of the fear of the Lord." (Isaiah 11:2)

Also I heard the voice of the Lord, saying, "Whom shall I send, and who will go for us?" Then said I, "Here am I; send Me." (Isaiah 6:8)

The Lord Himself coming forth as a mighty man. (Isaiah 42:13) The Word made flesh, and dwelt among us. "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)

God Himself took on the form of a servant and was made in the likeness of men.

"But made Himself of no reputation and took upon Him the form of a servant, and was made in the likeness of men, and being found in fashion as a man, He humbled Himself and became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross. Wherefore, God hath also highly exalted Him, and given Him a Name which is above every Name -- that at the Name of Jesus ..." (Philippians 2:7-10)

"Thou art My Son. Today, have I begotten Thee." As He saith also in another place, "Thou art a priest for ever after the order of Melchisedec." who in the days of His flesh, when He had offered up prayers and supplications with strong crying and tears unto Him who was able to save Him from death, and was heard in that He feared -- though He were a Son, yet learned He obedience by the things which He suffered; and being made perfect, He became the Author of eternal salvation unto all them that obey Him. Called of God an high priest after the order of Melchisedec -- of whom we have many things to say, and hard to be uttered, seeing ye are dull of hearing." (Hebrews 5:1-11)

The principles of the doctrine of Christ, wherein God is One, and He became our Saviour. (Titus 3:4-7) The Lord thy God, the Holy One of Israel, thy Saviour. (Isaiah 43:3) I m the first, and I am the last, and beside Me there is no God. (Isaiah 44:6; 48:12)

"I have made the earth, and created man upon it; I, even My hands, have stretched out the heavens, and all their host have I commanded." (Isaiah 45:12)

"I am the Lord and there is none else. There is no God beside Me. I girded thee, though thou hast not known Me." (Isaiah 45:5)

"I, even I, am He that blotteth out thy transgressions for Mine own sake, and will not remember thy sins." (Isaiah 43:25)

The Lord thy God then -- He is God. (Deuteronomy 7:9)

Continuing in Isaiah 42:

"He shall not fail nor be discouraged, till He have set judgment in the earth: and the isles shall wait for His law. Thus saith God the LORD, He that created the heavens, and stretched them out; He that spread forth the earth, and that which comes out of it; He that gives breath unto the people upon it, and Spirit to them that walk therein. I the LORD have called Thee in righteousness, and will hold Thine hand, and will keep Thee, and give Thee for a covenant of the people, for a light of the Gentiles. To open the blind eyes, to bring out the prisoners from the prison, [and] them that sit in darkness out of the prison house." (Isaiah 42:4-7)

"The burden of the Word of the Lord, for Israel," saith the Lord," which stretches forth the heaven and lays the foundation of the earth, and forms the spirit of man within him ..." (Zechariah 12:1)

"God that made the world and all things therein, seeing that He is Lord of heaven and earth, dwells not in temples made with hands. Neither is worshipped with men's hands, as though He needed any thing, seeing he gives to all life, and breath, and all things, and hath made of one blood of all nations of men for to dwell on all the face of the earth, and hath determined the times before appointed; and the bounds of their habitation, that they should seek the Lord ..." (Acts 17:24-30)

"Because that on the Gentiles also was poured out the gift of the Holy Ghost." (Acts 10:45)

Indeed, Paul and Barnabas waxed bold, saying that it was necessary for the Word of God to be first spoken to the Jews. But when the Jews judged themselves to be unworthy of everlasting life, lo, they turned to the Gentiles. (Acts 13:44-46)

"For so hath the Lord commanded us, saying, "I have set Thee to be a light of the Gentiles, that Thou should be for salvation unto the ends of the earth." (Acts 13:47; Isaiah 42:6; Isaiah 49:6)

"That the blessing of Abraham might come on the Gentiles through [in] Jesus Christ; that we might receive the promise of the Spirit through faith." (Galatians 3:14; Isaiah 32:15)

"For there was a tabernacle made; the first wherein was the candlestick ... and after the second veil, the tabernacle which is called the Holiest of all." (Hebrews 9:2)

Simeon, a just and devout man from Jerusalem, who waited for the consolation of Israel knew this, Simeon had a revelation from the Holy Ghost that he should not see death before the Lord's Christ. And he came by the Spirit into the temple, and when the parents brought in the child Jesus to do for Him after the custom of the law, then did Simeon take Jesus in His arms. He said, "Lord, now let thou Thy servant depart in peace, according to Thy Word, for mine eyes have seen Thy salvation, which Thou hast prepared before the face of all people. A light to lighten the Gentiles, and the glory of Thy people Israel." (Luke 2:25-32)

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

But the Lord speaking through the prophet Isaiah afore does not stop there.

"I [am] the LORD: that [is] My Name: and My glory will I not give to another, neither My praise to graven images. Behold, the former things are come to pass, and new things do I declare: before they spring forth I tell you of them. Sing unto the LORD a new song, and His praise from the end of the earth, ye that go down to the sea, and all that is therein; the isles, and the inhabitants thereof. Let the wilderness and the cities thereof lift up [their voice], the villages [that] Kedar doth inhabit: let the inhabitants of the Rock sing, let them shout from the top of the mountains.

Let them give glory unto the LORD, and declare His praise in the islands.The LORD shall go forth as a mighty man, He shall stir up jealousy like a man of war: He shall cry, yea, roar; He shall prevail against his enemies. I have long time holden my peace; I have been still, [and] refrained myself: [now] will I cry like a travailing woman; I will destroy and devour at once.

I will make waste mountains and hills, and dry up all their herbs; and I will make the rivers islands, and I will dry up the pools. And I will bring the blind by a way [that] they knew not; I will lead them in paths [that] they have not known: I will make darkness light before them, and crooked things straight. These things will I do unto them, and not forsake them.

They shall be turned back, they shall be greatly ashamed, that trust in graven images, that say to the molten images, "Ye [are] our gods." Hear, ye deaf; and look, ye blind, that ye may see." (Isaiah 42:8-18)

As we are aware from the scriptures in their entirety, the Name of the Lord is very important. "For My Name's sake will I defer Mine anger, and for My praise will I refrain for thee, that I cut thee not off. Behold, I have refined thee, but not with silver; I have chosen thee in the furnace of affliction, for Mine own sake, [even] for Mine own sake will I do it; for how should My Name be polluted? and I will not give My glory unto another. Hearken unto Me, O Jacob and Israel, My called; I am He. I am the first. I also am the last ..." (Isaiah 48:9-12)

"O sing unto the Lord a new song; for He hath done marvelous things. His right hand and His holy arm hath gotten Him the victory. The Lord hath made known His salvation. His righteousness hath He openly showed in the sight of the heathen. He hath remembered His mercy, and His truth toward the house of Israel; all the ends of the earth have seen the salvation of our God." (Psalm 98:1; Psalm 106:45)

Jesus said, "For judgment, I am come into this world, that they which see not might see, and that they which see might be made blind." (John 9:39) Had the Pharisees admitted to their blindness, they would have no sin, "but now ye say, We see; therefore, your sin remains." (John 9:41)

This is a perfect lead in for Isaiah 42:19, and onward:

"Who [is] blind, but My servant? or deaf, as My messenger [that] I sent? who [is] blind as He [that is] perfect, and blind as the LORD’S servant? Seeing many things, but Thou observe not; opening the ears, but He hears not. The LORD is well pleased for His righteousness’ sake; He will magnify the law, and make honourable.

But this is a people robbed and spoiled; [they are] all of them snared in holes, and they are hid in prison houses: they are for a prey, and none delivereth; for a spoil, and none saith, "Restore." Who among you will give ear to this? [Who] will hearken and hear for the time to come? Who gave Jacob for a spoil, and Israel to the robbers? Did not the LORD, He against whom we have sinned? For they would not walk in His ways, neither were they obedient unto His law.

Therefore He hath poured upon Him the fury of His anger, and the strength of battle: and it hath set Him on fire round about, yet He knew not; and it burned Him, yet He laid [it] not to heart." (Isaiah 42:1-25)

The pride of Israel testifies to His face, and they do not return to the Lord their God, nor seek him for all this. (Hosea 7:9)

Israel hath forgotten his Maker. (Hosea 8:14) Even though the Lord spread out His hands all the day unto a rebellious people. (Isaiah 65:1-9) "Wherefore the Lord said, "Forasmuch as this people draw near Me with their mouth, and with their lips do honour Me, but have removed their heart far from Me, and their fear toward Me is taught by the precept of men." (Isaiah 29:13; Matthew 15:8-9; Mark 7:6-7; Colossians 2:22)

In this context, we can be assured that the judgment of God is according to truth against them which commit such things -- and forget the riches of His goodness and forbearance, and long suffering, not knowing that the goodness of God leads thee to repentance. (Romans 2:1-5)

This is why Jesus is the Light to Gentiles. (Luke 2:32; John 3:34; Matthew 12:18; Luke 4:18) For He alone shall save His people from their sins. (Matthew 1:21-23)

Stand in the offering plate.

The Smoking Flax He Will Not Quench - Part 1512

"But Christ being come an high priest of good things to come, by a greater and more perfect tabernacle, not made with hands, that is to say, not of this building; neither by the blood of goats and calves, but by His own blood He entered in once into the holy place, having obtained eternal redemption for us." (Hebrews 9:11-12)

Herein, He is talking about entering into the Holiest of all. For the law having a shadow of good things to come, and not the very image of the things, can never with those sacrifices which they offered year by year continually make, the comers thereunto perfect. For then would they not have ceased to be offered? Because that the worshippers once purged should have had no more conscience of sins. But in those [sacrifices there is] a remembrance again [made] of sins every year. For [it is] not possible that the blood of bulls and of goats should take away sins.

Wherefore, when He cometh into the world, He saith, "Sacrifice and offering Thou wouldest not but a body hast Thou prepared Me; in burnt offerings and sacrifices for sin Thou hast had no pleasure." Then said I, "Lo, I come (in the volume of the book it is written of Me) to do Thy will, O God." (Hebrews 10:1-8)

It is here that the Lord Himself comes to take away the first (the old covenant ordinances and law) so that He may establish the second. 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 9:15-19)

How was this accomplished?

"By the which will we are sanctified through the offering of the body of Jesus Christ once and for all." (Hebrews 10:9-10)

"And after the second veil, the tabernacle which is called the Holiest of all; which had the golden censer, and the ark of the covenant overlaid round about with gold, wherein was the golden pot that had manna, and Aaron's rod that budded, and the tables of the covenant ..." (Hebrews 9:3-4; Exodus 25:16) 

The "vail" dividing between the holy [place] and the most holy "and thou shalt put the mercy seat upon the ark of the testimony in the most holy [place]." (Exodus 6:31-35)

"The Holy Ghost this signifying, that the way into the holiest of all was not yet made manifest, while as the first tabernacle was yet standing." (Hebrews 9:8)

But the Holiest would be made manifest in the new testament. God manifest in the flesh. (I Timothy 3:16) The Lord coming forth as a mighty man. (Isaiah 42:13; Isaiah 9:6) He was in the world and the world was made by Him and the world knew Him not. He came unto His own and His own received Him not. (John 1:10-11) The Word made flesh and dwelt among us ... (John 1:1-18) Behold, the Lamb of God!

Jesus -- King of kings and Lord of lords. Alpha and Omega, the first and the last, the beginning and the ending. (Revelation 1:8, 11)

"Having therefore, brethren, boldness to enter into the holiest by the blood of Jesus, by a new and living way, which He hath consecrated for us, through the veil, that is to say, His flesh, and [having] an high priest over the house of God." (Hebrews 10:19-21)

We see this when Jesus was on the cross. The sun was darkened "and the veil of the temple was rent in the midst." (Luke 23:45)

But not just rent in the midst but more specifically, "the veil of the temple was rent in twain from the top to the bottom." (Luke 15:38)

"And, behold, the veil of the temple was rent in twain from the top to the bottom; and the earth did quake, and the rocks rent ..." (Matthew 27:51)

The veil was rent from heaven to earth. The Lord Himself declaring peace and good will to one and all. (Luke 2:14) "For Christ is the end of the law for righteousness to every one that believes ..." (Romans 10:4-9)

"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." (Romans 10:12-13; Romans 10:9-13)

"Blessed be the King that comes in the Name of the Lord; Peace in heaven and glory in the highest." (Luke 19:38; Psalm 118:26; Ephesians 2:14)  Isaiah 57:19

"That in the ages to come, He might shew the exceeding riches of His grace in [His] kindness toward us through Christ Jesus." (Ephesians 2:4, 7; Titus 3:4-7; Romans 10:12; John 3:16)

"Wherein God, willing more abundantly to shew unto the heirs of promise, the immutability of His counsel, confirmed [it] by an oath, that by two immutable things in which it was impossible for God to lie, we must have a strong consolation, who have fled for refuge to lay hold upon the hope set before us ... which hope we have as an anchor of the soul, both sure and steadfast, and which enters into that within the veil; whither the forerunner is for us entered, [even] Jesus, made an high priest for ever after the order of Melchisedec  ... being by interpretation, King of righteousness, and after that also King of Salem, which is, King of peace, without father, without mother, without descent, having neither beginning of days, nor end of life, but made like unto the Son of God, abides a priest continually." (Hebrews 6:17-)

"And after the second veil, the tabernacle which is called the Holiest of all ..." (Hebrews 9:3)

Indeed, by a new and living way, which He hath consecrated for us, through the veil, that is to say, His flesh, we have found redemption for our souls. As Isaiah said, "I was found of them that sought Me not; I was made manifest unto them that asked not after Me." (Romans 10:20)

There is so much more to understand here. However, for now let me end with a scripture from Titus, that is so telling of the love and mercy of God our Saviour.

"Not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to His mercy he saved us, by the washing of regeneration, and renewing of the Holy Ghost ..." (Titus 3:5)

Stand in the offering plate.

Serving The Lord With All Humility of Mind; And With Many Tears, and Temptations Which Befell Me, I Now Have Been Set Free From the Erred Traditions of Men - Part 1511

"Knowing that Christ being raised from the dead dies no more; death hath no more dominion over Him." ( Romans 6:9 )

"Who needeth not daily, as those high priests, to offer up sacrifices, first for His own sins, and then for the people's: for this he did once, when He offered up Himself." ( Hebrews 7:27 )  "So Christ was once offered to bear the sins of many;" ( Hebrews 9:28 )
"By the which we are sanctified through the offering of the body of Jesus Christ once for all... But this man ( Jesus ), after He had offered one sacrifice for sins for ever, sat down on the right hand of God;" ( Hebrews 10:10 & 12 )

Transubstantiation is a tradition of men that comes forth primarily from the Catholic religious community. It is not ever included in the practices of the early church. Priests were then and still are in large numbers all appointed by men. Generally, priests come from a line of successors, stepping into high offices promoted by a highly patriarchal religious system. In fact, there was a saying during the dark ages “That in Europe, priests were as numerous as black flies.”

May we also suggest that with a host of priests comes an oft times corrupted message -- another gospel -- that is in stark contrast to the good news gospel message that Jesus delivered. 

In this case, the gospel message they delivered was as polluted as a nasty infestation. The only retardant to the progress of their religious pursuit was that death curtailed their expansion, at least temporarily. In other words, when we converse concerning the Priesthood of God, we recognize that God’s unchangeable priesthood continues ever.

This explains why -- as it is written, Jesus, is the same yesterday, today and forever. He knows all about your life, the ups and downs, the tears, and even the sorrows. That is why He is a Faithful High priest touched with the feelings of our infirmities. One who is compassionate. For God Himself, as a son was tempted and tried in all points, just like we are.

That is why we speak of Jesus as being our one and only High Priest. There is no other. When we profess that Jesus is GOD Himself as a son, He is mankind’s priest forever after the order of Melchisedec.

Jesus, God Himself, is the only mediator between man and God. (I Timothy 3:16) The scriptures declare this. There is only one mediator between God and man and that is Jesus the Christ. His Priesthood is un-transferrable. Why? Because Jesus' priesthood is permanent and does not hail from a long list of successors, as our religious priests do.

This is why when we come to Jesus, everything in our life changes. Jesus turns "our" light switch on to the point that you will never be the same person again. He is able to save you completely, totally and absolutely all those who approach His priestly office. Yes! Here is the High priest who willingly responds to our every need. In so doing, He whispers sweet peace to me and you. The stormy sea subdues and the strong wind ceases and as a consequence, we find rest. Safe in the arms of Jesus!

There is no con artist at work. No impostors. He came to you first so that He could be your friend. Yes He did. And with God on our side, who shall accuse us of anything? Christ has died for our sin once and for all. He rose from the grave confirming our justification. God, swearing Himself to an oath, that stated tha all of our sins and iniquities, He would remember no more. And, without a shadow of a doubt,  there is also  ow no more sacrifice for sin.

Therefore, run as fast as you can to Jesus. He is the one and only author of salvation. What he has promised to do for you He will perform. It is impossible for God to lie. And why would He? Here is the same God who created us willing to become a man to bring us salvation. Comfort one another with these words. Remember too that God as a son sacrificed Himself. The battle is over. The victory is won. Come just as you are to Jesus.

Read the record in Hebrews. Melchisedec was the king of the city of Salem and priest of the most high God. Abraham returning from a battle (known as the battle of the kings) was blessed by Melchisedec. What was the blessing? Melchisedec brought forth bread and wine. There stood Abraham who is spoken of in the scriptures as the father of the faithful before Melchisedec receiving a blessing represented as bread and wine.

So what does all this mean? In the first place His name primarily means King of Righteousness and Justice. Melchisedec is without a record of father, or mother, or lineage. There is simply no genealogy, no pedigree or ancestry in the records. Further, there is no record of birth or a record indicating the end of His life. Indeed, it would appear that He was never born nor, did He ever die. His life is a true symbol of the Son of God, and now as a priest He blesses Abraham, appearing with bread and wine.

He continues to be a priest without interruption. No successor. Mark the dignity of this man. How great this man must have been. Our Lord God and Saviour Jesus the Christ! The One and Only! The Alpha and Omega, the first and the last, the beginning and the ending. He is our everything, which is why we often sing the song beoe.

Rock of Ages cleft for me ... Let me hide myself in thee ... Let the water and the blood ... From thy wounded side which flowed. Such is our High Priest.

Think on these things this day. Study His Word for truth. Stand in the offering plate.

Then Charged Jesus His Disciples To Tell No Man That He Was Jesus the Christ - Part 1510

People often refer to the church or synagogue as a building. However, like the distinct differences between the earthly and the spiritual, the Lord also distinguished between church buildings and temples made by hands and His church that He Himself constructed. The latter is the body of Christ -- whereby believers whom Jesus has called and ordained into His Kingdom are members. (John 15:16)

This "spiritual" is further explained by apostle Paul in I Corinthians 12. He begins by saying that when we were Gentiles, we were carried away unto these dumb idols, even as we were led. But now, when we speak by the Spirit of God, we no longer will call Jesus accursed, "and no man can say that Jesus is Lord, but by the Holy Ghost." (I Corinthians 12:1-3)

Simon Peter told Jesus, "Thou art the Christ, the Son of the living God." (Matthew 16:15-16) How did Jesus respond? "And Jesus answered and said unto him, "Blessed art thou, Simon Barjona, for flesh and blood hath not revealed it unto thee, but My Father which is in heaven. And I say also unto thee, that thou art Peter and upon this Rock I will build My Church, and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it. And I will give unto thee the keys of the kingdom of heaven, and whatsoever thou shall bind on earth shall be bound in heaven; and whatsoever thou shalt loose in earth shall be loosed in heaven." (Matthew 16:13-19)

In Luke's account, Peter identifies Jesus as "The Christ of God." (Luke 9:20)

Peter recognized that Jesus was the Lord, and that He Jesus was the key to salvation. He -- Jesus -- had the words of eternal life. "And we believe and are sure that Thou art the Christ, the Son of the living God." (John 6:68-69)

The same spiritual Rock that the fathers followed when they were under the cloud, and all passed through the sea, and were baptized unto Moses in the cloud and in the sea, and did all eat the same spiritual drink; "for they drank of that spiritual Rock that followed them and that Rock was Christ." (I Corinthians 10:1-4)

Then charged He His disciples that they should tell no man that He was Jesus the Christ. (Matthew 16:20)

Before some begin thinking that Peter's revelation of who Jesus was made him privileged over the other disciples, note that Jesus called Simon the son of Jona -- "thou shalt be called Cephas, which by interpretation, a stone." (John 1:42; John 21:15)

In other words, the Rock is Jesus the Christ. Right from the beginning (as evidenced in Moses' time) the Rock was Christ. And it is this Rock -- Christ --  that Jesus will build His church in this current dispensation of grace -- "and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it. And I will give unto thee the keys of the kingdom of heaven; and whatsoever thou shall bind in earth shall be bound in heaven; and whatsoever thou shalt loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven." (Matthew 16: 18-19)

Why? Because when we understand that through Christ Jesus we both have access by ONE SPIRIT unto the Father, that we are no more strangers and foreigners, but fellow citizens with the saints, and of the household of God.

"And are built upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Jesus Christ Himself being the chief corner [stone]; in whom all the building fitly framed together growth unto an holy temple in the Lord, in whom ye also are builded together for an habitation of God through the Spirit." (Ephesians 2:18-22)

Having said this however, note that Peter with the eleven did present the keys to the kingdom on the day of Pentecost when he said to those first 3,000 to be saved that this same Jesus whom ye have crucified is BOTH LORD AND CHRIST. (Acts 2:36) And when these people were pricked in their hearts, and asked Peter (standing with the eleven) what they must do to be saved, what did Peter say?

"Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the Name of the Lord Jesus Christ for the remission of sins and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost." (Acts 2:38)

What was the result? The first 3,000 souls in one accord repented and were water baptized into the spiritual church of Jesus Christ, having received His gift of the Holy Ghost. His Spirit within, having been clothed in His righteousness. This was the beginning of the new testament church. (Acts 1:22)

"Until the day in which He [Jesus] was taken up, after that He [Jesus] through the Holy Ghost had given commandments unto the apostles whom He had chosen: to whom also He shewed Himself alive after His passion by many infallible proofs, being seen of them forty days and speaking of the things pertaining to the Kingdom of God, and being assembled together with [them], commanded them that they should not depart from Jerusalem, but wait for the promise of the Father, which, [saith He], ye have heard of Me. For John truly baptized with water, but ye shall be baptized with the Holy Ghost not many days hence." (Acts 1:1-12)

Jesus the Christ! It was Him who was delivered by the determinate counsel and foreknowledge of God. And this is why Jesus is the Head of the Church. And within His Church are many members but the body is one.

"For as the body is one, and hath many members, and all the members of that one body, being many are one body, so also is Christ. For by one Spirit are we all baptized into one body, whether we be Jews or Gentiles, whether we be bond or free, and have been all made to drink into ONE SPIRIT. For the body is not one member, but many.

If the foot shall say, "Because I am not the hand, I am not of the body; is it therefore, not of the body? And if the hear shall say, "Because I am not the eye, I am not of the body; is it therefore not of the body? If the whole body were an eye, where [were] the hearing? If the whole [were] hearing, where [were] the smelling. But NOW God hath sett the members every one of them in the body, as it hath pleased Him.

And if they were all one member, where were the body? But now are they many members, yet but one body ... but God hath tempered the body together having given more abundant honour to that [part] which lacked, that there should be no schism in the body; but [that] the members should have the same care for another, and whether one member suffer, all the members suffer with it; or one member be honoured, all the member rejoice with it. Now ye are the body of Christ, and members in particular ...." (I Corinthians 12:1-31)

Members of His Church. Not a physical building but members of the Church of the Lord Jesus Christ.

"And we 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 show of them openly, triumphing over them in it." (Colossians 2:1-21)

No longer are we under or after the commandments and doctrines of men -- "which things have indeed a shew of wisdom in will worship, and humility, and neglecting of the body; not in any honour to the satisfying of the flesh." (Colossians 2:22-23)

But if ye then be risen with Christ, we set our affection on things above, and our life is hid with Christ in God so that when He appears -- the Head of the Church -- they shall we also appear with Him in glory. (Colossians 3:1-4)

His Church wrought in Christ -- that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of glory, may give unto you the Spirit of wisdom and revelation in the knowledge of Him, the eyes of your understanding being enlightened, that ye many know what is the hope of His calling, and what the riches of the glory of His inheritance in the saints, and what is the exceeding greatness of His powers to us-ward who believe, according to the working of His mighty power which is wrought in Christ." (Ephesians 1:17-20)

This is why we do not settle for earthly tabernacles made of men -- because we are His body, the fullness of Him that filleth all in all. (Ephesians 1:17-23)

Stand in the offering plate.

Jesus Said, "I Am the Bread of Life; The Light of The World" - Part 1509

"And whatsoever ye do in word or deed, do all in the Name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God and the Father by Him." (Colossians 3:17)

In all things, the Word and the Spirit must agree. This agreement can be problematic for those who have expressed faith in the Lord but are not prepared to believe that the Word -- through which we are sanctified -- is truth. Or, that without His Word, as the Lord speaking through Hosea said, "My people perish for lack of knowledge!: (Hosea 4:6) Indeed, the scriptures tell us -- "Thy Word is truth." (John 17:17)

And then there are others who have not ever heard the truth concerning the Word of God, and when these do, they hunger and thirst after His righteousness. As a consequence, the latter desires to be filled with the presence of the Lord in their heart, and will not stop desiring more of Jesus every day of their life. These believers in Jesus seek His goodness and grace, and His wisdom and knowledge.

Paul (who was Saul before meeting the Lord Jesus) was a prime example. As an adherent to the Jewish faith, Saul's religious radicalism was so radical that if he lived in today's society, he might be classified as a terrorist. Certainly, he pursued believers in Jesus Christ with a vengeance, throwing them into prison. All this until one day, the Lord met Saul on the road to Damascus.

As we can see. the Lord Jesus wasn't waiting for Paul to find him hunting Christians. He was going to connect with Saul just where he was.

And thus, right there on the road, the Lord confronted Paul head on saying, "It is hard for you Saul to kick against the pricks." This was the arrow that penetrated right into Saul's heart. Prior to this, Saul was caught up in his religious duties. attempting to climb the ladder of fame and fortune. The dilemma was that Saul, in so doing was violating himself.

So, here is a question! How many people today are like Saul before taking on the  new name -- Paul? Caught up in religious institutional practices or other pursuits taught to them as children? A pursuit that in the end has essentially disabled them from being themselves, unable to listen to their heart?

In Saul's case, it was being confronted with the Word of JESUS that changed the situation. It was hard for Saul to kick against his conscience. That conscience which pricks the heart with guilt, like a fire alarm going off in one's heart. If left unattended, there is a place where it can actually sears one"s conscience, so that nothing pricks their conscience again. This is termed as the hardening of one's heart.

Such was the case when a Jewish crowd became angry with table servant Stephen. [He was one of the seven chosen earlier, full of the Holy Ghost]. Herein, we see that the crowd had completely hardened their hearts. Stephen told the people, "You always resist the Holy Ghost even as your fathers did before you."

Imagine the reaction to the "so also do you." This is when they began to stone Stephen, possibly thinking that they were doing a great service to God. Little did they know at the time (that like Adam and Eve who were put out of the Garden), so now would their people also be cut off from the same blessings of God in their conscience. Instead, as the scriptures point out, the crowd was left as it were to continue in their fanatical religious ways, totally estranged from God.

The result? The Jews were no longer somebody but rather now demoted to join the ranks of nobodies. Remember, JESUS had wept over Jerusalem saying, "Oh Jerusalem, Jerusalem, how often would I have gathered you under my wings, even as a chicken gathers her brood and you would not come. Now your city is left to you desolate."

So they were cut off from the vine JESUS and the Gentiles who had previously been on the outside looking in, were now being grafted into the vine JESUS. This same status remains even today because of unbelief or not desiring to seek Jesus with all our heart, soul, mind and strength. As a consequence, many today are departing from the grace and mercy of Jesus and His good news gospel. Instead, their hearts are returning to the house of bondage which is the Law.

But the scriptures state that no man is able to keep the Law, which is why in this current dispensation of grace, the Law serves as a schoolmaster for us to turn our heart to the Lord.  If we return to the Garden, we learn that the Law was the Tree of Knowledge of good and evil defined. JESUS fulfilled the Law of sin and death liberating all believers from the same law which had been imposed upon all of Adam’s sin prone descendants. The forgiveness of sins for each and every one of us because God became our Saviour. (Titus 3:4-7)

The good news is that we are no longer under the Law. Rather, we are saved by grace through faith, not of ourselves but because salvation is a gift of God. His abundance of love clothing us with His garment of righteousness. All believers who have repented before God and willingly been baptized into JESUS' death have become a new creation, a purchased and redeemed people resulting from the sacrificial death of God Himself as a Son at Calvary!

This is why John the baptist said to Jesus, "Behold, the Lamb of God!" Because He is our Saviour, the promised Messiah, the prophesied Christ. He is the One and Only -- the Alpha and Omega, the first and the last, the beginning and the ending. (Revelation 1:8, 11)

And she shall call His Name Jesus -- both Lord and Christ. (Acts 2:36) And by asking Jesus to be Lord in our life, we become the ISRAEL of GOD! Peace to ALL who stand fast in the liberty wherewith is JESUS! Praise His holy Name.

Stand in the offering plate.

That Ye Would Walk Worthy of God Who Hath Called You Into His Kingdom and Glory - Part 1508

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

There appears to be a sifting of sorts happening in the community of believers. Within the scriptures, there are those that "gladly" receive the Word, and continually rejoiced therein -- as evidenced by the first 3,000 souls saved on the day of Pentecost -- and those who do not accept the Word as written truth, even when being sanctified includes accepting "Thy Word [as] truth." (John 17:17)

Jesus speaks to this point in the parable of the sower. Herein, Jesus is by the sea side, and because of the multitude of people, He enters into a ship to teach the crowds of people many things by parables. Jesus "said unto them in His doctrine, "Hearken: Behold, there went out a sower to sow, and it came to pass as he sowed, some fell by the way side, and the fowls of the air came and devoured it up. And some fell on stony ground, where it had not much earth, and immediately it sprang up, because it had no depth of earth.

But when the sun was up, it was scorched, and because it had no root, it withered away. And some fell among thorns and the thorns grew up, and choked it, and it yielded no fruit. And other fell on good ground and did yield fruit that sprang up and increased: and brought forth, some thirty, and some sixty, and some an hundred." And He said unto them, "He that hath ears to hear, let him hear." (Mark 4:1-10)

When Jesus was alone, they that were about Him with the twelve asked of Him the meaning of this parable.  What did Jesus say?

"Unto you it is given to know the mystery of the Kingdom of God; but unto them that are without, all these things are done in parables: "That seeing they may see, and not perceive; and hearing they may hear, and not understand; lest at any time they should be converted, and [their] sins should be forgiven them."

And He said unto them, "Know ye not this parable? And how then will ye know all parables?" (Mark 4:11-13)

Good question. If we do not understand Jesus' teachings (acknowledging in our hearts that Jesus is the Word of God made flesh and dwelling among us re: John 1:1-18), then how can we fully comprehend the mystery of the Kingdom of God. The mystery of godliness wherein the fullness of the Godhead dwelt bodily in the man Christ Jesus. (Colossians 2:9; Isaiah 9:6) God manifest in the flesh. (I Timothy 3:16; Isaiah 42:13)  The parables wherein we see and hear His truth, and can relate them to our specific God given purpose within the body of Christ.

As Jesus explains herein, it is the Word -- the pricking of the heart that recognizes that this same Jesus whom ye have crucified is both Lord and Christ. (Acts 2:36) It is His Word that converts, so that one's sins can be forgiven.

"And she shall bring forth a son, and thou shalt call His Name JESUS, for He shall save His people from their sins. Now all this was done that it might be fulfilled which was spoken of the Lord, by the prophet, saying, "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 those who believe in Jesus and gladly accept His Word "as it is written" and then choose to take on His Name in water baptism, their sins are forgiven, and the gift of the Holy Ghost -- the Spirit of Jesus dwells within. (Acts 2:36-38; Romans 6:3-4; I Peter 3:21-22; Acts 19:40-44)

To this end, Jesus reveals to His disciples and "they that were about Him with the twelve" the meaning of the parable of the sower, and how the seed is the Word.

"And these are they by the way side, where the Word is sown; but when they have heard, satan comes immediately, and takes away the Word that was sown in their hearts. And these are they likewise which are sown on stony ground; who, when they have heard the Word, immediately receive it with gladness, and have no root in themselves, and so endure but for a time: afterward, when affliction or persecution arises for the Word's sake, immediately they are offended. And these are they which are sown among thorns, such as hear the Word, and the cares of this world, and the deceitfulness of riches, and the lusts of other things entering in, choke the Word, and it becomes unfruitful." (Mark 4:15-1; Acts 2:36-47; Matthew 13:1-23; Luke 21:34)

Thankfully, there is seed which falls into the ground that is receptive to His message.

"And these are they which are sown on good ground; such as HEAR THE WORD, AND RECEIVE [it]; and bring forth fruit, some thirty fold, some sixty, and some an hundred." (Mark 4:20)

Why? Because there is a recognition with accepting Jesus that we are become dead to the law by the body of Christ; that ye/we be married to another; even to Him who is raised from the dead, that we should bring forth "real fruit unto God." For when we were in the flesh, the motions of sins, which were by the law, did work in our members to bring forth fruit unto death. But now we are delivered from the law, that being dead wherein we were held; that we should serve in newness of spirit, and not in the oldness of the letter .... " (Romans 7:4-6)

"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 9:15-18)

The law in this current dispensation of grace being spiritual, and written on the tablets of our heart. (Romans 7:14) We have now come under the "law of faith" in Christ Jesus wherein there is therefore -- now -- in this dispensation of grace for those that love Him no condemnation. (Romans 3:27; Romans 8:1)

As Jesus said, "Is a candle brought to be put under a bushel, or under a bed? And not to be set on a candlestick?" (Mark 4:21-23; Matthew 5:15; Matthew 10:26; Matthew 11:15, Matthew 13:9, 43)

Therefore, once you have gladly received His Word and been clothed in His righteousness through water baptism in the precious Name of Jesus, we become like a city that is set on an hill that cannot be hid. (Matthew 5:13-15)

Thus, as Jesus said, "let your light so shine before men so that they may see your good works while glorifying your Father which is in heaven." (Matthew 5:16)

"Being born again, not of corruptible seed, but of incorruptible, by the Word of God, which lives and abides for ever. For all flesh is as grass, and all the glory of man as the flower of grass. The grass withers, and the flower thereof falls away, but the Word of the Lord endures for ever. And this is the Word which by the gospel is preached unto you." (I Peter 1:23-25)

The Word is Jesus. He is the light of the world! Stand in the offering plate.

A Prophet Shall the Lord Your God Raise Up Unto You Of Your Brethren, Like Unto Me -- Hear Ye Him! - Part 1507

In yesterday's post, we note that apostle Paul gave only a portion of the timeline from the old testament side. Herein, we present the remainder, as told by Stephen prior to being stoned to death under Saul/Paul's watch. The testimony of Stephen, one of the seven chosen and full of the Holy Ghost, is shared in Acts 7:2-60. Therein, Stephen who served as a table servant states his defence, and in so doing, tugs at well educated overseer Saul's heart.

"The God of glory appeared unto our father Abraham, when he was in Mesopotamia, before he dwelt in Charran, and said unto him, "Get thee out of thy country and from thy kindred and come into the land which I shall shew thee." Then came he out of the land of the Chadaeans and dwelt in Charran: and from thence, when his father was dead, he removed him into this land, wherein ye now dwell. (Acts 7:1-4; Genesis 11:31-32; Genesis 12:1; Genesis 15:16-21)

And he gave him none inheritance in it, no, not so much as to set his foot on: yet He promised that He would give it to him for a possession, and to his seed after him, when as yet he had no child. And God spake on this wise, "That his seed should sojourn in a strange land; and that they should bring them into bondage, and entreat them evil four hundred years. And the nation to whom they shall be in bondage will I judge," said God, "and after that shall they come forth, and serve Me in this place."  (Acts 7:5-7; Genesis 12:7; Genesis 13:15; Genesis 15:1-6;, 18; Genesis 17:5-10; Genesis 26:3)

And He gave him the covenant of circumcision, and so Abraham begat Isaac, and circumcised him the eighth day; and Isaac begat Jacob, and Jacob begat the twelve patriarchs. And the patriarchs moved with envy, sold Joseph into Egypt but God was with him, and delivered him out of all his afflictions, and gave him favour and wisdom in the sight of Pharaoh king of Egypt, and he made him governor over Egypt and all his house. (Acts 7:8-9; Genesis 47:1-20)

Now there came a dearth over all the land of Egypt and Chanaan and great affliction, and our fathers found no sustenance. But when Jacob heard that there was corn in Egypt, he sent out our fathers first. And at the second time, Joseph was made known to his brethren, and Joseph's kindred was made known unto Pharaoh. Then sent Joseph, and called his father Jacob to him, and all his kindred, threescore and fifteen souls. So Jacob went down into Egypt, and died, he and our fathers, and were carried over into Sychem, and laid in the sepulchre that Abraham bought for a sum of money of the sons of Emmor [the father] of Sychem. (Acts 7:11-16;

But when the time of the promise drew nigh, which God had sworn to Abraham, the people grew and multiplied in Egypt, till another king arose, which knew not Joseph. The same dealt subtilly with our kindred, and evil entreated our fathers, so that they cast out their young children, to the end they might not live. In which time Moses was born, and was exceeding fair, and nourished up in his father's house three months, and when he was cast out, Pharaoh's daughter took him up, and nourished him for her own son.

And Moses was learned in all the wisdom of the Egyptians, and was mighty in words or deeds. And when he was full forty years old, it came into his heart to visit his brethren the children of Israel. And seeing one [of them] suffer wrong, he defended [him] and avenged him that was oppressed, and smote the Egyptian; for he supposed his brethren would have understood how that God by His hand would deliver them, but they understood not.

And the next day he showed himself unto them as they strove, and would have set them at one again, saying, "Sirs, ye are brethren; why do ye wrong one to another? But he that did his neighbour wrong thrust him away, saying, "Who made thee a ruler and judge over us? Wilt thou kill me, as thou didst the Egyptian yesterday?" Then fled Moses at this saying, and was a stranger in the land of Madian, where he begat two sons.

And when forty years were expired, there appeared to him in the wilderness of mount Sina an angel of the Lord in a flame of fire in a bush. When Moses saw [it], he wondered at the sight, and as he drew near to behold [it], the voice of the Lord came unto him, saying, "I Am the God of thy fathers, the God of Abraham, and the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob." Then Moses trembled and durst not behold. Then said the Lord to him, "Put off thy shoes from thy feet, for the place where thou standest is holy ground. I have seen, I have seen the affliction of My people which is in Egypt, and I have heard their groaning, and am come down to deliver them. And now come, I will send thee into Egypt." (Acts 7:20-38; Hebrews 11:24-29)

This Moses whom they refused, saying, "Who made thee a ruler and a judge?" the same did God send [to be] a ruler and a deliverer by the hand of the angel which appeared to him in the bush. He brought them out, after that h/He shewed wonders and signs in the land of Egypt, and in the Red Sea, and in the wilderness forty years. This is that Moses, which said unto the children of Israel, "A prophet shall the Lord your God raise up unto you of your brethren, like unto me -- Him shall ye hear."

This is He that was in the "church in the wilderness" with the angel which spake to him in the mount Sina, and with our fathers; who received the lively oracles to give unto us; to whom our fathers would not obey, but thrust him/Him from them, and in their hearts turned back again unto Egypt, saying unto Aaron, "Make us gods to go before us; for as for this Moses, which brought us out of the land of Egypt, we wot not what is become of him."

And they made a calf in those days, and offered sacrifice unto the idol, and rejoiced in the works of their own hands. Then God turned, and gave them up to worship the host of heaven; as it is written in the book of the prophets, "O, ye house of Israel, have ye offered to Me slain beasts and sacrifices by the space of forty years in the wilderness? Yea, ye took up the tabernacle of Moloch, and the star of your god Remphan, figures which ye made to worship them, and I will carry you away beyond Babylon." (Acts 7:42-43; II Thessalonians 2:11; II Kings 21:3; Amos 5:25-27; Jeremiah 25:9-12)

Our fathers had the "tabernacle of witness in the wilderness" as He had appointed, speaking unto Moses that he should make it according to the fashion that he had seen, which also our fathers that came after brought in with Jesus into the possession of the Gentiles, whom God drave out before the face of our fathers, unto the days of David, who found favour before God and desired to find a tabernacle for the God of Jacob, but Solomon built Him an house.

Howbeit, the most High dwelleth not in temples made with hands; as saith the prophet, "Heaven is My throne and earth is My footstool. What house will ye build Me?" saith the Lord, "Or what is the place of My rest? Hath not My hand made all these things?"

Ye stiffnecked and uncircumcised in heart and ears, ye do always resist the Holy Ghost as your fathers [did], so do ye. Which of the prophets have not your fathers persecuted? and they have slain them which shewed before of the coming of the Just One; of whom ye have been now the betrayers and murderers; who have received the law by the disposition of angels, and have not kept [it]. When they heard these things, they were cut to the heart and they gnashed on him with [their] teeth, but he [Stephen] being full of he Holy Ghost, looked up steadfastly into heaven, and saw the glory of God, and Jesus standing on the right hand of God. (Acts 7:1-60)

Indeed, Jesus stood up as Stephen asked for forgiveness for all those responsible for the stoning.

"And he kneeled down and cried with a loud voice, "Lord, lay not this sin to their charge. And when he had said this, he fell asleep. Just as Jesus told us to love our enemies and to bless those that curse you, to do good to those who hate you and to pray for them which despitefully use you and persecute you  --- that you may be the children of your Father which is in heaven. for He makes His sun to rise on the evil and on the good, and sends rain on the just and on the unjust." (Matthew 5:44-45)

Lots to learn here. Stand in the offering plate.

And I Beseech You, Brethren, Suffer the Word of Exhortation - Part 1506

"Through faith we understand that the worlds were framed by the Word of God, so that things which are seen were not made of things which do appear." (Hebrews 11:3)

After the first reading of the law and the prophets, the rulers of the synagogue sent unto them, saying, "[Ye] men [and] brethren, if ye have any word of exhortation for the people, say on." Then Paul stood up, and beckoning with [his] hand, said, "Men of Israel, and ye that fear God give audience." (Acts 13:15-16)

As we see in this passage of scripture, apostle Paul rose to the occasion. He did not miss an opportunity to speak of the goodness and mercies of His Lord and Saviour. Educated from the best of educators in his youth, Paul was about to provide a historical account and timeline of the old covenant scriptures, and the giants of faith contained therein, so that no one would be without, and ignorant of the good news gospel of Jesus Christ. ((Hebrews 11:1-40)

Paul spoke to those that dwelt at Jerusalem, and their rulers, "because they knew Him not, nor yet the voices of the prophets which are read every sabbath day. They have fulfilled [them] in condemning [Him]." (Acts 13:26-28; Psalm 66:16; Matthew 10:6; Luke 23:34; Matthew 27:22-23) Paul begins:

"The God of this people of Israel chose our fathers and exalted the people when they dwelt as strangers in the land of Egypt, and with an high arm brought He them out of it. And about the time of forty years, suffered He their manners in the wilderness. And when He had destroyed seven nations in the land of Chanaan, He divided their land to them by lot. And after that He gave [unto them] judges about the space of four hundred and fifty years, until Samuel the prophet.

And afterward they desired a king; and God gave unto them Saul the son of Cis, a man of the tribe of Benjamin, by the space of forty years. And when He had removed him, He raised up unto them David to be their king; to whom also He gave testimony, and said, "I have found David the son of Jesse -- A man after Mine own heart -- which shall fulfill all My will." Of this man's seed hath God according to His promise raised unto Israel a Saviour, Jesus." (Acts 13:16-23; Numbers 14:34; Deuteronomy 7:1; Joshua 14:1-2; Joshua 19:51; Judges 2:16; I Samuel 3:20; I Samuel 10:20-24; I Samuel 15:23-28; Psalm 89:20; Isaiah 11:1-2; Psalm 132:11; Matthew 1:21-23)

When John first preached (before His coming) the baptism of repentance to all the people of Israel, and as John fulfilled his course, he was seen asking, "Who think ye that I am? I AM NOT HE. But behold, there comes One after me, whose shoes of His feet I am not worthy to loose. Men [and] brethren, children of the stock of Abraham, and whosoever among you fears God, to you is the Word of this salvation sent." (Acts 13:24-52)

"The Word which God sent unto the children of Israel, preaching peace by Jesus Christ; (He is Lord of all). (Acts 10:36; Acts 2:36; Isaiah 57:19; Romans 10:19-13`; Isaiah 9:6; I Timothy 3:16; Isaiah 42:13)

The same Word which was in the beginning with God and was God, and was made flesh and dwelt among us. (John 1:1-18)

The same Word of God which we now (through faith) understand framed the worlds ... "so that things which are seen were not made of things which do appear." (Hebrews 11:3)

Yes, as John so aptly pointed out when He saw Jesus coming -- "Behold, the Lamb of God," (John 1:29) This is your promised Christ. The Messiah which according to the prophets was to come.

Herein, Paul reminded the rulers of the synagogue that even though they found no cause of death in Him -- Jesus -- yet desired they Pilate that He should be slain. "And when they had fulfilled all that was written of Him, they took [Him] down from the tree, and laid [Him] in a sepulchre ... but God raised Him from the dead, and He was seen many days of them which came up with Him from Galilee to Jerusalem, who are His witnesses unto the people. And how we declare unto you glad tidings, how that the promise which was made unto the fathers, God hath fulfilled the same unto us their children, in that He hath raised up Jesus again; as it is also written in the second psalm, "Thou art My Son. This day have I begotten Thee." (Acts 13:27-33; Luke 18:31-33; Acts 1:2-3, 11; Genesis 3:15)

"And as concerning that He raised Him up from the dead, now no more to return to corruption, He said on this wise, "I will give you the sure mercies of David." Wherefore He saith also in another psalm, "Thou shalt not suffer Thine Holy One to see corruption." For David, after he had served his won generation by the will of God, fell on sleep, and was laid upon his fathers, and saw corruption, but He, whom God raised saw no corruption. Be it known unto you therefore, men and brethren that through this man is preached unto you forgiveness of sins; and by Him all that believe are justified from all things, from which ye could not be justified by the law of Moses." (Acts 13:34-39; Psalm 89:28; Isaiah 55:3; Psalms 16:10; Acts 2:29; Jeremiah 31:34)

Why? Because Jesus 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)

"In that He saith, a new covenant, He hath made the first old." (Hebrews 8:13)

"And all things are of God who hath reconciled us to Himself by Jesus Christ, and hath given to us the ministry of reconciliation. To with, that God was in Christ, reconciling the world unto Himself, not imputing their trespasses unto them, and hath committed unto us the Word of reconciliation." (II Corinthians 5:17-19; John 6:62-63; Romans 8:9-11; Isaiah 43:18; Isaiah 65:17; Romans 5:10-21; Romans 6:3-10; Romans 3:23-26; Isaiah 52:10; Isaiah 53:1, 6-7, 9; Romans 1:17; Romans 3:21; I Corinthians 1:30-31)

"This cup is the new testament in My blood, which is shed for you." (Luke 22:20)

And in this current dispensation of grace, the Lord has made a new covenant with the house of Israel and with the house of Judah. Not according to the covenant that He made with their fathers in the day "that I took them by the hand to bring them out of the land of Egypt, which My covenant they brake, although I was an husband unto them," saith the Lord, "But this shall be the covenant that I will make with the house of Israel. After those days," saith the Lord, "I will put My law in their inward parts, and write it in their hearts; and will be their God and they shall be My people. And they shall teach no more every man his neighbour, and every man his brother, saying, "Know the Lord, for they shall all know Me, from the least of them unto the greatest of them," saith the Lord, "for I will forgive their iniquity, and I will remember their sin no more." (Jeremiah 34:31-34; Hebrews 8:8-12; Hebrews 10:16-17; Deuteronomy 1:31; Jeremiah 32:40; Jeremiah 24:7; Jeremiah 30:22; Jeremiah 32:38; II Corinthians 3:3; Psalm 40:8; John 6:45; I Corinthians 2:10; I John 2:20; Acts 10:43; Acts 13:39; Romans 11:27; Ezekiel 36:27-28)

Thus saith the Lord. Stand in the offering plate.

The Lord Saith, "My Doctrine Shall Drop As the Rain, My Speech Shall Distew As the Dew" - Part 1505

More and more, it seems the word "doctrine" is getting a bad rap. Perhaps, it is yet another attack against things pertaining to the Kingdom of God? Or, criticism from some making light of the scriptures? Conversely, it might just be that the accusers negating doctrine have another agenda, that does not include sharing the good news gospel of our Lord God and Saviour Jesus the Christ with others so that others can experience the fullness of the Lord within.

Still, the people who heard Jesus marveled at Jesus' doctrine. 

"And it came to pass, when Jesus had ended these sayings, the people were astonished at His doctrine ..." (Matthew 7:28)

From the scriptures cited below, we see that there are different types of doctrines. There are doctrines from the Lord, as well as doctrines of men. There are references to strange doctrines as well as those doctrines that are not sound. There is doctrine that is pure and doctrine that is full of vanities. And then there is the doctrine of Christ.

What is the doctrine of Christ?

"Whosoever transgresses, and abides not in the doctrine of Christ, hath not God. He that abides in the doctrine of Christ, he hath both the Father and the Son." (II John 1:9-10)

The doctrine of God our Saviour. (Titus 3:4-7; Isaiah 9:6; Isaiah 42:13; Revelation 1:8,11)  God manifest in the flesh. (I Timothy 3:16) Jesus resurrected and regenerated in the Holy Ghost. But I digress. Herein, scripture citing the word "doctrine" from both the old covenant and the new testament.

"Give ear, O ye heavens, and I will speak; and hear, O earth, the words of My mouth. My doctrine shall drop as the rain. My speech shall distil as the dew, as the small rain upon the tender herb, and as the showers upon the grass ... because I will publish the Name of the Lord: ascribe ye greatness unto our God. He is the Rock. His work is perfect ...." (Deuteronomy 32:1-4)

For Thou hast said, "My doctrine is pure, and I am clean in Thine eyes." (Job 11:4)

"For I give you good doctrine, forsake ye not My law." (Proverbs 4:2)

 "Whom shall He teach knowledge? And whom shall He make to understand doctrine? Them that are weaned from the milk, and drawn from the breasts." (Isaiah 28:9)

"They also that erred in spirit shall come to understanding, and they that murmured shall learn doctrine. " (Isaiah 29:24)

"But they are altogether brutish and foolish: the stock is a doctrine of vanities." (Jeremiah 10:8)

"And it came to pass, when Jesus had ended these sayings, the people were astonished at His doctrine ..." (Matthew 7:28)

Jesus said, "But in vain they do worship Me, teaching for doctrines the commandments of men." (Matthew 15:9)

"Then understood they how that He bade them not beware of the leaven of bread, but of the doctrine of the Pharisees and of the Sadducees." (Matthew 16:12)

"And when the multitude heard this, they were astonished at His [Jesus] doctrine." (Matthew 22:33)

"And they were astonished at His doctrine: for He [Jesus] taught them as one that had authority, and not as the scribes." (Mark 1:22)

"And they were all amazed, insomuch that they questioned among themselves, saying, "What thing is this? What new doctrine is this?" For with authority commands He even the unclean spirits, and they do obey Him." (Mark 1:27)

And He [Jesus] taught them many things by parables, and said unto them in His doctrine ... Howbeit in vain do they worship Me, teaching for doctrines the commandments of men. " (Mark 4:2-7)

"And the scribes and chief priests heard it, and sought how they might destroy Him: for they feared Him, because all the people was astonished at His doctrine." (Mark 11:18)

And He [Jesus] said unto them in His doctrine, "Beware of the scribes, which love to go in long clothing, and love salutations in the marketplaces ..." (Mark 12:38)

"And they were astonished at His doctrine: for His word was with power." (Luke 4:32)

Jesus answered them, and said, "My doctrine is not Mine, but His that sent Me. If any man will do His will, He shall know of the doctrine, whether it be of God, or whether I speak of Myself. " (John 7:16-17)

      

"The high priest then asked Jesus of His disciples, and of His doctrine ... " (John 18:19)

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

And when they had brought them, they set them before the council and the high priest asked them saying," Did not we straitly command you that ye should not teach in this Name? and, behold, ye have filled Jerusalem with your doctrine, and intend to bring this man's blood upon us." (Acts 5:28)

 "Then the deputy, when he saw what was done, believed, being astonished at the doctrine of the Lord." (Acts 13:12)

    

And they took him, and brought him unto Areopagus, saying, "May we know what this new doctrine, whereof thou speakest, is?" (Acts 17:19)

"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." (Romans 6:17)

"Now I beseech you, brethren, mark them which cause divisions and offences contrary to the doctrine which ye have learned; and avoid them." (Romans 16:17)

 

"Now, brethren, if I come unto you speaking with tongues, what shall I profit you, except I shall speak to you either by revelation, or by knowledge, or by prophesying, or by doctrine?" (I Corinthians 14:6)

"How is it then, brethren? when ye come together, every one of you hath a psalm, hath a doctrine, hath a tongue, hath a revelation, hath an interpretation. Let all things be done unto edifying." (I Corinthians 14:26)

"That we henceforth be no more children, tossed to and fro, and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the sleight of men, and cunning craftiness, whereby they lie in wait to deceive ..." (Ephesians 4:14) 

"Which all are to perish with the using ... after the commandments and doctrines of men?" (Colossians 2:22)

"As I besought thee to abide still at Ephesus, when I went into Macedonia, that thou might charge some that they teach no other doctrine ... For whoremongers, for them that defile themselves with mankind, for men stealers, for liars, for perjured persons, and if there be any other thing that is contrary to sound doctrine; (I Timothy 1:3, 10)

"Now the Spirit speaks expressly, that in the latter times some shall depart from the faith, giving heed to seducing spirits, and doctrines of devils ... If thou put the brethren in remembrance of these things, thou shalt be a good minister of Jesus Christ, nourished up in the words of faith and of good doctrine, whereunto thou hast attained ... Till I come, give attendance to reading, to exhortation, to doctrine ... Take heed unto thyself, and unto the doctrine; continue in them: for in doing this thou shalt both save thyself, and them that hear thee. " (I Timothy 4:1-16)

"Let the elders that rule well be counted worthy of double honour, especially they who labour in the Word and Doctrine." (I Timothy 5:17)

"Let as many servants as are under the yoke count their own masters worthy of all honour, that the Name of God and His doctrine be not blasphemed ... If any man teach otherwise, and consent not to wholesome words, even the words of our Lord Jesus Christ, and to the doctrine which is according to godliness ... " (I Timothy 6:1-3)
      
"But thou hast fully known my doctrine, manner of life, purpose, faith, longsuffering, charity, patience ... All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness." (II Timothy 3:10, 16)

"Preach the Word. Be instant in season, out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort with all longsuffering and doctrine ... For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but after their own lusts shall they heap to themselves teachers, having itching ears." (II Timothy 4:2-3)

"Holding fast the faithful Word as he hath been taught, that he may be able by sound doctrine both to exhort and to convince the gainsayers." (Titus 1:9)

"But speak thou the things which become sound doctrine ... In all things shewing thyself a pattern of good works: in doctrine shewing uncorruptness, gravity, sincerity ... Not purloining, but shewing all good fidelity; that they may adorn the doctrine of God our Saviour in all things. " (Titus 2:1, 7, 10)

"Therefore leaving the principles of the doctrine of Christ, let us go on unto perfection; not laying again the foundation of repentance from dead works, and of faith toward God ... Of the doctrine of baptisms, and of laying on of hands, and of resurrection of the dead, and of eternal judgment." (Hebrews 6:1-2)
 
"Be not carried about with divers and strange doctrines. For it is a good thing that the heart be established with grace; not with meats, which have not profited them that have been occupied therein." (Hebrews 13:9)

"Whosoever transgresses, and abides not in the doctrine of Christ, hath not God. He that abides in the doctrine of Christ, he hath both the Father and the Son. If there come any unto you, and bring not this doctrine, receive him not into your house, neither bid him God speed: " (II John 1:9-10)

"But I have a few things against thee, because thou hast there them that hold the doctrine of Balaam, who taught Balac to cast a stumbling block before the children of Israel, to eat things sacrificed unto idols, and to commit fornication. So hast thou also them that hold the doctrine of the Nicolaitans, which thing I hate. " (Revelation 2:14-15)

"But unto you I say, and unto the rest in Thyatira, as many as have not this doctrine, and which have not known the depths of satan, as they speak; I will put upon you none other burden." (Revelation 2:24)

Stand in the offering plate.