Jesus' Purpose; To Open Our Eyes, And To Turn Us From Darkness To Light That We Might Receive Forgiveness of Sins - Part 1608

"And if children, then heirs; heirs of God, and joint heirs with Christ: if so be that we suffer with [Him], that we may be also glorified together." (Romans 8:17)

"For unto you it is given in the behalf of Christ, not only to believe on Him but also to suffer for His sake; having the same conflict which ye saw in me, and now hear [to be] in me." (Philippians 1:29)

Herein, Paul, called to be an apostle, separated unto the gospel of God [and previously Saul] is sharing his life changing experience on the road to Damascus, whereby the Lord Jesus stops him dead in his tracks. Saul asks, "Who art Thou, Lord?" to which Jesus answers: "I am Jesus whom thou persecutes." Within this encounter, Jesus tells Saul that He has appeared to him for this purpose -- Jesus speaking -- "To make thee a minister and a witness both of these things which thou hast seen; and of those things in the which I will appear unto thee: delivering thee from the people and [from] the Gentiles, unto whom now I send thee -- to open their eyes, [and] to turn [them] from darkness to light, and [from] the power of satan unto God, that they may receive forgiveness of sins, and inheritance among them which are sanctified by faith that is in Me." (Acts 26:18)

Sadly, however, somewhere in the time between Saul's journey and his subsequent conversion [Saul's name then being changed to Paul] and the current modern day times in which we live, the religious dogma of "baptizing" infants began. Indeed, the practice has become so entrenched in some religions today that people today actually believe that by sprinkling a baby shortly after birth, these same infants have been saved forever from eternal damnation -- even when the scriptures give us a completely different understanding -- instructing us first to repent, and then to be water baptized by immersion into the water in the precious Name of our Lord Jesus Christ. (Acts 2:38; Acts 10:40-44; Acts 8:5, 12, 16; Acts 19:2-5; Acts 16:14-15; Acts 16:30-33)

I raise this latter point because many who have been sprinkled at birth (within a religious context) do not see the need to be water baptized again -- as instructed in the scriptures. This may explain why Jesus accused the Pharisees and scribes of being hypocrites -- "laying aside the commandment of God, ye hold the tradition of men." (Mark 7:5-8) Jesus continued, saying, "Full well ye reject the commandment of God, that  ye may keep your own tradition ... making the word of God of none effect through your tradition, which ye have delivered, and many such like things do ye." (Mark 7:9-13)

These prefer the traditions of men, even when every single example of water baptism in the new testament was performed in the Name of the Lord Jesus Christ, beginning with the first 3,000 souls [adults] saved on the day of Pentecost. (Acts 2:36-38) Therein, water baptism was not done by sprinkling, but rather buried with Him -- baptized into Jesus Christ... into His death. "Therefore, we are buried with Him by baptism into death: that like as Christ was raised from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life." (Romans 6:3-4)

We see the same baptism by immersion when Philip baptizes the eunuch. "And they went down both into the water, both Philip and the eunuch; and he baptized him." (Acts 8:38)

And since we are here, I should also mention that water baptism is the answer of a good conscience toward God -- "the like figure where unto [even] baptism doth also now save us (not the putting away of the filth of the flesh, but the answer of a good conscience toward God) by the resurrection of Jesus Christ." (I Peter 3:21-22)

Some might be asking -- why the Name of Jesus versus the titles? "Neither is there salvation in any other; for there is NONE OTHER NAME none given among men, whereby we must be saved" (Acts 4:12).

Moreover, Paul wrote, "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).

And one more point -- we can neither downplay or ignore the importance of water baptism (as the new religious trend is doing) because Jesus Himself was baptized, having said, " "For thus it becomes us to fulfill all righteousness." (Matthew 3:13-16)

Water baptism is about Jesus clothing us in His righteousness, putting on His garment. This is why Peter (standing with the eleven) on the day of Pentecost instructed those who gladly received the Word -- Jesus -- to "repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost" (Acts 2:38). "Then they that gladly received His Word were baptized, and the same day there were added unto them about three thousand souls" (Acts 2:41)

As an aside, let's also not forget what happens when we reject water baptism -- "the Pharisees and lawyers rejected the counsel of God against themselves, being not baptized." (Luke 7:30)

But what about infant baptism, as was the beginning question of today's blog. Certainly, we want to ensure that our children are saved from eternal damnation -- yes? And this is where I stumbled across the following scriptures, that to me, offers sufficient evidence as to why children do not need to be baptized prior to reaching their own age of understanding, whereby these turn to the Lord Jesus as both their Lord and Saviour, and then shortly afterward are water baptized. (Acts 2:36-38)

The first reference is found in the first chapter of Hebrews. That is, in reference to angels -- "Are they not all ministering spirits, sent forth to minister for them who shall be heirs of salvation?" (Hebrews 1:14)

Note that these ministering spirits are sent forth to those who shall be "heirs of salvation." Heirs with God and joint heirs with Christ --  and in this context, nothing shall be able to separate us from the love of God which is in Christ Jesus our Lord. (Romans 8:17, 38-39)

We certainly see this when Jesus called a little child unto Him and set the child in the midst of them. He said to His disciples, "Verily I say unto you, except ye be converted and become as little children, ye shall not enter into the kingdom of heaven. Whosoever therefore shall humble himself as this little child, the same is greatest in the kingdom of heaven."

But keep reading. Jesus then states: "And whoso shall receive one such little child in My Name receives Me, but whoso shall offend one of these little ones which believe in Me, it were better for him that a millstone were hanged about his neck, and [that] he were drowned in the depth of the sea. Woe unto the world because of offences! for it must needs that offences come; but woe to that man by who the offence comes!" (Matthew 18:1-7)

Note that Jesus does not say -- whoso shall receive one such little child/infant and sprinkle them with holy water -- receives Me. Herein the contention between current religious practice and the Word -- Jesus -- who came to open our eyes, and to turn us from darkness to the light that can only be found in Him.

Jesus continues by saying, "Take heed that ye despise not one of these little ones; for I say unto you that in heaven their angels do always behold the face of My Father which is in heaven" ... for the Son of man is come to save that which was lost." (Matthew 18:1-11)

I understand that these scriptures have always been preached in a different light (and that is okay too!) but bear with me for a moment. Do you see the connection? Jesus is telling us that in heaven "their angels" -- the angels that minister to these little ones -- these children that we receive in His Name -- the Name of the Lord Jesus Christ -- "do always behold the face of My Father which is in heaven." The Lord has covered these little children in His clothing of righteousness, because these have not (as of yet) reached an age of understanding wherein these understand repentance, and accepting Jesus in their heart as both Lord and Christ. (Acts 2:36)

It is also worth noting that angels of God brought good and/or glad tidings on the new testament side. For example, the angel who announced to the country shepherds abiding in the field (keeping watch over their flock by night) brought good tidings of great joy. And the angel said unto them, "Fear not; for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord." (Luke 2:10; Isaiah 9:6; Micah 5:2)

And, similarly glad tidings to Zacharias (who was the father of John the Baptist) -- "I am Gabriel, that stand in the presence of God; and am sent to speak unto thee, and to shew thee these glad tidings ..." (Luke 1:19-20)

Even so, we need to understand that Jesus was made so much better than the angels, as He hath by inheritance obtained a more excellent "Name" than they. "For unto which of the angels said He at any time, "Thou art My Son, this day have I begotten Thee?" And again, "I will be to Him a Father, and He shall be to Me a Son?" And again, when He brings in the first begotten into the world, He saith, "And let all the angels of God worship Him." And of the angels, He saith, "Who makes His angels spirits, and His ministers a flame of fire" but unto the Son, [He saith], "Thy throne, O God, is for ever and ever; a sceptre of righteousness [is] the sceptre of Thy kingdom. Thou hast loved righteousness, and hated iniquity; therefore, God, [even] Thy God, hath anointed Thee with the oil of gladness above Thy fellows.

And, Thou, Lord, in the beginning hast laid the foundation of the earth; and the heavens are the works of Thine hands. They shall perish but Thou remainest, and they all shall wax old as doth a garment; and as a vesture shalt Thou fold them up, and they shall be changed: but Thou art the same, and Thy years shall not fail." But to which of the angels said He at any time, "Sit on My right hand, until I make Thine enemies Thy footstool?" (Hebrews 1:4-14; Psalm 104:4)

You see, in speaking of the angels, He makes His angels spirits and His ministers a flame of fire. (Hebrews 1:7) The same Lord who is clothed with honour and majesty, who stretches out the heavens like a curtain; who lays the beams of His chambers in the waters; who makes the clouds His chariot; who walks upon the wings of the wind -- He makes His angels spirits; His ministers a flaming fire; [who] laid the foundations of the earth -- He said to suffer the little children to come unto Him. (Psalm 104:1-5; Matthew 18:1-11)

This same Jesus, who suffered the little children to come unto Him (and subsequently stated that in heaven "their angels" do always behold the face of My Father which is in heaven) is the same Jesus who is gone into heaven and is on the right hand of God -- angels and authorities and powers being made subject unto Him." (I Peter 3:22)

As a consequence of His death and resurrection -- He who knew no sin becoming the perfect sacrifice on the cross for you and I -- the Lord's message spoken through angels is therefore binding. This includes the Lord's message relayed to children not yet of age -- because the Word spoken on earth has also been confirmed in heaven -- Jesus having said, "for I say unto you that in heaven their angels do always behold the face of My Father which is in heaven." (Matthew 18:10) This is why Jesus instructed His disciples, and us by extension to take heed that ye/we despise not one of these little ones.

"For if the Word spoken by angels was steadfast, and every transgression and disobedience received a just recompense [penalty] of reward; how shall we escape if we neglect so great salvation; which at the first began to be spoken by the Lord, and was confirmed unto us by them that heard Him ..." (Hebrews 2:1-3)

"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 who are all things, in bringing many sons unto glory, 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 the 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 2:9-18)

He is our merciful and faithful high priest who takes away the sins of the world. (Matthew 1:21-23) He blotted out the handwriting of ordinances that was against us, which was contrary to us; and took it out of the way, nailing it to His cross; and having spoiled principalities and powers, He made a shew of them openly, triumphing over them in it." (Colossians 2:14-15)

And this is why we are "buried with Him in baptism, wherein also ye are risen with [Him] through the faith of the operation of God, who 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." (Colossians 2:12-13)

For the record, sprinkling is not the same as one being buried. Imagine sprinkling some dirt over a body that is dead, and saying that is wholly sufficient. It could not happen. In fact, the world would laugh at us for even considering it to be so.  Likewise, sprinkling infants as a form of water baptism is not the same as being "buried" with Him in baptism. And herein is the contention between current day religious dogma/the traditions of men and what is written -- the Word of God.

But we do know this to be true and absolute. If Jesus said, "Suffer the little children to come unto Me," He is true and faithful and unchanging in His good news gospel message right to the end. That is, He who has delivered to you and I (at significant cost) His free gift of salvation. Why? Because Jesus is the King of kings and Lord of lords, Alpha and Omega, the first and the last, the beginning and end.

Therefore, "I charge [thee] before God and the Lord Jesus Christ and the elect angels, that thou observe these things without preferring one before another, doing nothing by partiality." (I Timothy 5:21)

Thus, when someone tries to lead you astray with false teachings that in turn are an "intentional offence" to the Lord of glory, heed [pay attention] to the apostle's doctrine that was clearly established on the day of Pentecost. (Acts 2:36-47) And, be not carried about with divers and strange doctrines but rather keep yourselves pure -- not following after the men whose sins are clearly evident - introducing false doctrines that are not written or practiced, and most certainly not scriptural -- including the sprinkling of infants as a form of water baptism and or salvation. (I Peter 5:22-24; Hebrews 6:1-2)

Yes, Jesus has a plan for children not of age and that is -- "That in heaven "their angels" do always behold the face of My Father which is in heaven." (Matthew 18:10)

In other words, Jesus never fails. Let him/her who has ears to hear, hear. Stand in the offering plate.

We Are The Children of Promise, Not Children of the Bondwoman, But Of The Free! Let Christ Be Formed In You - Part 1607

"My little children, of whom I travail [labour] in birth again until Christ be formed in you, I desire to be present with you now, and to change my voice [tone]; for I stand in doubt of [have doubts about] you. Tell me, ye that desire to be under the Law, do ye not hear the Law? For it is written, that Abraham had two sons, the one by a bondmaid, the other by a free woman. But he who was of the bondwoman was born after [according to] the flesh; but he of the free woman was by promise." (Galatians 4:19-23)

Herein, apostle Paul is writing to the brethren which were with him, and unto the churches of Galatia. Similar to his instruction to those who were sanctified in Corinth and called to be saints with all that in every place call upon the Name of Jesus Christ our Lord, Paul is saying: "For though ye have ten thousand instructors in Christ, yet [have ye] not many fathers; for in Christ Jesus have I begotten you through the gospel -- wherefore I beseech you, be ye followers of me." (I Corinthians 4:15-16; I Corinthians 1:1-2) Remain steadfast in the apostle's doctrine, adorning the doctrine of Christ. (Hebrews 6:1-2; I Timothy 3:16; Acts 2:36-47)

What Paul is doing herein is ensuring that we fully understand the covenant of promise -- wherein the mediator of the new testament, that by means of death for the redemption of the transgressions that were under the first testament they which are called might receive the promise of eternal inheritance.

"For where a testament is, there must also of necessity be the death of the testator. For a testament is of force after men are dead; otherwise, it is of no strength at all while the testator lives. Whereupon neither the first testament was dedicated without blood ..." (Hebrews 9:15-18)

As Peter (standing with the eleven on the day of Pentecost) declared: "Therefore, let all the house of Israel know assuredly that God hath made that same Jesus whom ye have crucified both Lord and Christ." (Acts 2:36)

In other words, the disciples were sharing how the first covenant of ordinances of divine service and a worldly sanctuary, or the blood of bulls and of goats, or the ashes of an heifer could never purge one's conscience from dead works to serve the living God. Therefore, as the scripture indicates, "the law having a shadow of good things to come, and not the very image of the things could 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 would have had no more conscience of sins." (Hebrews 10:1-2)

But as we soon realize, the sacrifices of old could never set us free. For all have sinned and fallen short of the glory of God. This is why (in this current dispensation of grace) we who believe in Jesus by faith gladly draw near with a true heart in full assurance of our faith in the King of kings and Lord of lords, having our hearts sprinkled from an evil conscience, and our bodies washed with pure water.

"Let us hold fast the profession of our faith without wavering; (for He is faithful that promised)." (Hebrews 10:21-23)

How did this come about? As we understand from the scriptures, the Lord God decided His plan of salvation even before the world was formed. in essence, the mystery that was hid in the bosom of the Father from the beginning of the world. Allow me to explain.

In Genesis (which is the first book of the Bible on the old testament side) we learn that the Lord God promised Abram/Abraham a son -- "unto thy seed" and "to thy seed after thee." (Genesis 12:7; Genesis 17:8) The promise was made even though Abraham at one hundred and his wife Sarah at ninety years of age were barren, well past the age of conception.

In fact, even the idea of carrying a child to term at the age of ninety made  Sarai/Sarah laugh. This explains why Sarah willingly encouraged Abraham to sleep with her handmaid, an Egyptian named Hagar, to bring forth this child promised by the Lord God. The scriptures state she "gave her to her husband Abram to be his wife." (Genesis 16:1-4)

Continuing, we learn that Hagar bares Abram a son; and Abram called his son's name Ishmael. (Genesis 16:15-16)

But throughout, the Lord clarifies His original promise to Abraham. "And behold the Word of the Lord came unto Abram, saying, "This shall not be thine heir; but he that shall come forth out of thine own bowels shall be thine heir." (Genesis 15:4) In the same day the Lord made a covenant with Abram, saying, "Unto thy seed have I given this land, from the river of Egypt unto the great river, the river Euphrates." (Genesis 15:18; Genesis 24:7)

Soon, Sarah conceives and brings forth a son named Isaac. But Sarah, upon seeing the son of Hagar (mocking) said unto Abraham, "Cast out this bondwoman and her son: for the son of this bondwoman shall not be heir with my son [even] with Isaac." And this was very grievous in Abraham's sight because of his son. But God reassured Abraham, saying, "Let it not be grievous in thy sight, because of the lad, and because of thy bondwoman; in all that Sarah hath said unto thee, hearken unto her voice; for in Isaac shall thy seed be called. And also of the son of the bondwoman will I make a nation because he is thy seed [descendant]." (Genesis 21:1-1)

The account of Abraham is further captured in Romans and Hebrews.

From Romans: "Who are Israelite's; to whom pertains the adoption, and the glory, and the covenants, and the giving of the law, and the service of God, and the promises; whose are the fathers, and of whom as concerning the flesh Christ came, who is over all, God blessed for ever, Amen. Not as though the Word of God hath taken none effect. For they are not all Israel, which are of Israel: neither because they are the seed of Abraham, are they all children; but, "in Isaac shall thy seed be called."

That is, they which are the children of the flesh, these are not the children of God but the children of the promise are counted for the seed. For this is the Word of promise, "At this time will I come, and Sarah shall have a son." And not only this; but when Rebecca also had conceived by one, [even by] our father Isaac; (for the children being not yet born, neither having done any good or evil, that the purpose of God according to election might stand, not of works, but of Him that calls).  It was said unto her, "The elder shall serve the younger." As it is written, "Jacob have I loved, but Esau have I hated." (Romans 9:4-13)

From Hebrews: "By faith, Abraham, when he was called to go out into a place which he should after receive for an inheritance, obeyed: and he went out, not knowing whither he went. By faith, he sojourned in the land of promise, as in a strange country, dwelling in tabernacles with Isaac and Jacob, the heirs with him of the same promise; for he looked for a city which hath foundations, whose builder and maker is God.

Through faith also Sara herself received strength to conceive seed, and was delivered of a child when she was past age, because she judged Him faithful who had promised. Therefore, sprang there even of one, and him as good as dead, [so many] as the stars of the sky in multitude, and as the sand which is by the sea shore innumerable. These all died in faith, not having received the promises, but having seen them afar off, and were persuaded of [them], and embraced [them], and confessed that they were strangers and pilgrims on the earth.

For they that say such things declare plainly that they seek a country, and truly, if they had been mindful of that [country] from whence they came out, they might have had opportunity to have returned. But now they desire a better [country], that is, an heavenly ' wherefore God is not ashamed to be called their God: for He that prepared for them a city.

By faith, Abraham, when he was tried, offered up Isaac: and he that had received the promises offered up his only begotten son, of whom it was said, "That in Isaac shall thy seed be called: accounting that God was able to raise [him] up, even from the dead; from whence also he received him in a figure." (Hebrews 11:8-19)

How do these scriptures all fit together? For starters, to provide insight between the old and new testament, and to inform us that there is more than just a blank page between the two. Even though Jesus explained, "Neither do men put new wine into old bottles: else the bottles break, and the wine runs out, and the bottles perish: but they put new wine into new bottles, and both are preserved" it takes pointing to the "two covenants" for an understanding to take hold.(Matthew 9:17; Mark 2:22; Luke 5:37-38)

Further, there is a significant difference between the liberty that is in Christ -- the new testament -- and the bondage under the old covenant law. The cross becoming the equalizer so that the free gift of salvation could be offered to one and all.

Apostle Paul expands, outlining how all these "things are an allegory: for these are the two covenants; the one from the mount Sinai, which genders to bondage, which is Agar. For this Agar is mount Sinai in Arabia, and answers to Jerusalem which now is, and is in bondage with her children. But Jerusalem which is above is free, which is the mother of us all. For it is written, "Rejoice, thou barren that bears not; break forth and cry, thou that travails not: for the desolate hath many more children than she which hath an husband."

Now we, brethren, as Isaac was, are the children of promise. But as then he that was born after the flesh persecuted him that was born after the Spirit, even so it is now. Nevertheless what saith the scripture? Cast out the bondwoman and her son: for the son of the bondwoman shall not be heir with the son of the free woman. So then, brethren, we are not children of the bondwoman, but of the free." (Galatians 4:19-34)

This is why Paul writes: "Know ye therefore that they which are of faith, the same are the children of Abraham. And the scripture, foreseeing that God would justify the heathen through faith, preached before the gospel unto Abraham, saying, "In thee shall all nations be blessed." So then they which be of faith are blessed with faithful Abraham.

For as many as are of the works of the law are under the curse; for it is written, "Cursed is every one that continues not in all things which are written in the book of the law to do them." But that no man is justified by the law in the sight of God, it is evident: for, "The just shall live by faith. And the law is not of faith; but, "The man that does shall live by faith." Christ hath redeemed us from the curse of the law, being made a curse for us: for it is written, "Cursed is every one that hangs on a tree;" that the blessing of Abraham might come on the Gentiles through Jesus Christ; that we might receive the promise of the Spirit through faith."

Brethren, I speak after the manner of men; Though it be but a man's covenant, yet if it be confirmed but no man disannuls, or added thereto. Now to Abraham and his seed were the promises made. He saith not, "And to seeds, as of many, but as of one. And to thy seed, which is Christ. And this I say, that the covenant, that was confirmed before of God in Christ, the law, which was four hundred and thirty years after, cannot disannul that it should make the promise of none effect.

For if the inheritance be of the law, it is no more of promise; but God gave [it] to Abraham by promise. Wherefore then serves the law? It was added because of transgressions, till the seed should come to whom the promise was made; and it was ordained by angels in the hand of a mediator. Now a mediator is not a mediator of one, but God is one. Is the law then against the promises of God? God forbid: for if there had been a law given which could have given life, verily righteousness should have been by the law.

But the scripture hath concluded all under sin, that the promise by faith of Jesus Christ might be given to them that believe. But before faith came, we were kept under the law, shut up unto the faith which should afterwards be revealed. Wherefore, the law was our schoolmaster to bring us unto Christ, that we might be justified by faith. But after that faith is come, we are no longer under a schoolmaster. For ye are all the children of God by faith in Christ Jesus. For as many of you as have been baptized into Christ have put on Christ.

There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither bond nor free, there is neither male nor female; for ye are all one in Christ Jesus. And if ye be Christ's, then are ye Abraham's seed and heirs according to the promise." (Galatians 3:6-29)

So much more to explain, but let this suffice for now. That is, "And if ye be Christ's then are ye Abraham's seed and heirs according to the promise." (Galatians 3:29)

Therein, is our hope and liberty in Christ Jesus. Stand in the offering plate.

For He That Is Mighty Hath Done To Me Great Things; And Holy Is His Name - Part 1606

"And my spirit hath rejoiced in God my Saviour ... " (Luke 1:47)

Indeed, we are instructed to adorn the doctrine of God our Saviour in all things. (Titus 2:10; Hebrews 6:1-2) " ... the acknowledging of the truth which is after godliness: in hope of eternal life, which God, that cannot lie, promised before the world began; but hath in due times manifested His Word through preaching, which is committed unto me according to the commandment of God our Saviour." (Titus 1:1-3)

Yes, the Lord came forth as a mighty man. (Isaiah 42:13; Isaiah 9:6) God became our Saviour. (I Timothy 3:16; John 1:1-14) He is the Alpha and Omega, the first and the last, the beginning and the ending. (Revelation 1:8, 11) His Name is Jesus -- Emmanuel, which being interpreted is God with us. (Matthew 1:21-23)

"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)

Our free gift of salvation dependent upon what we do in our hearts with Jesus the Christ.

JESUS the promised SEED of Genesis along with the promised SEED implanted into Abraham. These two SEEDS were NOT after the fashion of Adam’s natural seed. No, these two SEEDS were the SEEDS of the Spirit of God. These two SEEDS of promise continued down the genealogical pathway until these two SEEDS arrived in a young virgin girl named Mary. The Spirit of God brought the two SEEDS together in Mary's womb and Mary became a willing surrogate mother, as evidenced from her salutation in Luke 1:41-56.

Continuing in Acts chapters 1 and 2 we read that King David was also a prophet. David knew that God had sworn an oath with him -- of the fruit of his loins according to the flesh, that God in Christ would sit upon his throne. As we know, David the prophet regularly spoke concerning the resurrection of Christ, and prophesying that the Christ’s soul would not be left in the grave. Nor would the flesh of the Christ enter corruption.

Then Peter along with the other eleven apostles elaborates on these prophesies saying to his audience that God indeed has fulfilled these prophetic words spoken through David -- saying that God positively raised up Christ and that we are eye witnesses to these events. "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." (Acts 2:23-24)

Continuing, Peter said, "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." (Acts 2:29-36)

Yes, JESUS was raised from the grave and exalted by the right hand of God. JESUS having received of the Father the promised outpouring of His holy Spirit. What you now observe and hear is that promise actuated. David prophetically said concerning JESUS, “The Lord said to my Lord - sit at My right hand UNTIL I make your enemies Your footstool” (Acts 2:34-35; Psalm 68:18; Psalm 110:1; John 14:26; Acts 2:1-11, 17; Acts 10:45)

Therefore, believers are to declare to all nations that God has declared that the same JESUS crucified on a Roman cross is and remains today both LORD and CHRIST! The audience upon hearing that they had in ignorance actually crucified the Lord of Glory were immediately pricked in their heart’s saying to the apostles, "Men and brethren, what shall we do?" The Apostles replied, "Repent and be baptized every one of you into the Name of JESUS the Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the [promised] gift of the Holy Ghost." (Acts 2:38)

The promised gift of the Holy Ghost is to you and similarly to your children and to all those that are afar off. Indeed, the gift of salvation is promised to everyone who repents of their sins and is baptized into the name of JESUS. All those who believed in their heart on the day of Pentecost were gladly baptized without delay. In fact, they were baptized that very same day - 3,000 persons were baptized according to Acts 2. Needless to say, these new believers continued steadfastly in the apostles teachings. So should we desire His Spirit in our hearts.

"Now the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, that ye may abound in hope through the power of the Holy Ghost." (Romans 15:13)

Stand in the offering plate.

Your Sins Are Forgiven You For His Name's Sake -- Part 1605

"That which was from the beginning, which we have heard, which we have seen with our eyes, an which we have looked upon, and our hands have handled, of the Word of life; (for the life was manifested, and we have seen and bear witness, and shew that eternal life, which was with the Father, and was manifested unto us;) that which we have seen and heard declare we unto you, that ye also may have fellowship with us: and truly our fellowship is with the Father and with His Son Jesus Christ. And these things write we unto you that your joy may be full." (I John 1:1-4)

The first epistle of John continues, stating: "This then is the message which we have heard of Him and declare unto you, that God is light and in Him is no darkness at all. If we say that we have fellowship with Him, and walk in darkness, we lie, and do not know the truth ... but if we walk in the light, as He is in the light, we have fellowship one with another, and the blood of Jesus Christ His Son cleanses us from all sin. If we say that we have no sin, we deceive ourselves and the truth is not in us. If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us [our] sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. If we say that we have not sinned, we make Him a liar, and His Word is not in us ...

My little children, these things write I unto you, that ye sin not. And if any man sin, we have an advocate with the Father Jesus Christ the righteous; and He is the propitiation for our sins; and not for ours only, but also for [the sins of] the whole world. And hereby we do know that we know Him if we keep His commandments. [he] that saith, "I know Him" and keeps not His commandments is a liar and the truth is not in him. But whoso keeps His Word in him, verily is the love of God perfected: hereby know that we are in Him." (I John 1:5-10; I John 2:1-5)

Note herein that no new commandment has been written but an old commandment which we have had from the beginning. The old commandment is the Word which ye have heard from the beginning. 

"Again, a new commandment I write unto you, which thing is true in Him and in you; because the darkness is past, and the true light now shines ... " (I John 2:8-12)

I write unto you, little children because your sins are forgiven you for His Name's sake. 

I write unto you, fathers, because ye have known Him that is from the beginning.

I write unto you, young men, because ye have overcome the wicked one.

I write unto you, little children, because ye have known the Father.

And once more, for clarity:

I have written unto you, fathers, because ye have known Him that is from the beginning.

I have written unto you, young men, because ye are strong, and the Word of God abides in you, and ye have overcome the wicked one.

Therefore, love not the world, neither the things that are in the world. Why? Because if any man love the world, the love of the Father is not in him.

But ye have an unction from the holy One, and ye know all things. I have not written unto you because ye know not the truth, but because ye know it, and that no lie is of the truth. Who is a liar? Those/he who denies that Jesus is the Christ. Indeed, if a man denies that Jesus is the Christ, he is Antichrist that denies the Father and the Son.

Moreover, "whosoever denies the Son, the same hath not the Father." (I John 2:23) 

*[Since the remainder of I John 2:23 consists of "added" words that are not necessarily in the original text, I am going to omit those words here also. However, note that this does not mean that you should not read the rest of this scripture for edification and understanding. I just do not want to sidetrack this post with determining the meaning of the word -- acknowledge!]

Continuing in I John, "let that therefore abide in you, which ye have heard from the beginning. If that which ye have heard from the beginning shall remain in you, ye also shall CONTINUE IN THE SON AND IN THE FATHER. And this is the promise that He hath promised us, [even] eternal life. These [things] have I written unto you concerning them that seduce you.

 BUT, and this "but" is critical -- "But the anointing which ye have received of Him abides in you, and ye need not that any man teach you: but as the same anointing teaches you of all things, and is truth, and is no lie, and even as it hath taught you, ye shall abide in Him. And now little children, abide in Him; that, when He shall appear, we may have confidence, and not be ashamed before Him at His coming. If ye know that He is righteous, ye know that every one that does righteousness is born of Him." (I John 2:24-29)

In other words, amid the instructions to fathers and young men is an understanding similar to the message Jesus gave His disciples. That is, "I and My Father are ONE!" (John 10:30) "If ye have seen Me, ye have seen the Father." (John 14:6-12)

Jesus was God manifest in the flesh. (I Timothy 3:16) The same God who created us in the beginning loved us so much that He willingly became our Saviour. (Titus 3:4-7) God in Christ. He was in the world and the world was made by Him and the world knew Him not. He came unto His own and His own received Him not. (John 1:10-11; John 1:1-18) The Lord came forth as a mighty man. (Isaiah 42:13; Isaiah 9:6; Matthew 1:21-23; Luke 1:35)

What do we know from the very beginning?

"In the beginning, God." And, that the Spirit of God moved upon the face of the waters." (Genesis 1:1-2)

The same Holy Ghost - the Comforter -- is the Spirit of God who moved upon the face of the waters when God created the earth. The same Holy Ghost overshadowed Mary so that she could bring forth a son. (Luke 1:35) "Now the birth of Jesus Christ was on this wise: When as His mother Mary was espoused to Joseph, before they came together, she was found with child of the Holy Ghost." (Matthew 1:18) "But while he thought on these things, behold, the angel of the LORD appeared unto him in a dream, saying, "Joseph, thou son of David, fear not to take unto thee Mary thy wife: for that which is conceived in her is of the Holy Ghost." (Matthew 1:20)

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

That which ye have heard from the beginning. If the Holy Ghost is NOT the holy Spirit of God, as the scriptures state, then why is Jesus called the Son of God and not the Son of the Holy Ghost?

The Holy Ghost is the Spirit of Christ. Jesus told His disciples that He had to leave if the Comforter -- the Holy Ghost -- were to come into our hearts. Scriptures confirming this?

"Nevertheless I tell you the truth. It is expedient for you that I go away: for if I go not away, the Comforter will not come unto you; but if I depart, I will send Him unto you." (John 16:7)

"But this spake He of the Spirit, which they that believe on Him should receive: for the Holy Ghost was not yet given; because that Jesus was not yet glorified." (John 7:39)

Jesus said, "And I will pray the Father, and He shall give you another Comforter, that He may abide with you for ever; Even the SPIRIT OF TRUTH; whom the world cannot receive, because it sees Him not, neither knows Him: but ye know Him; for He dwells with you, and shall be in you. I will not leave you comfortless: I WILL COME TO YOU." (John 14:16-18)

Therefore, Jesus Christ must be the Holy Ghost -- yes? 

Look again at what Jesus is saying. "But the Comforter, which is the HOLY GHOST, whom THE FATHER WILL SEND IN MY NAME, He shall teach you all things, and bring all things to your remembrance, whatsoever I have said unto you. Ye have heard how I said unto you, I go away, and COME AGAIN UNTO YOU." (John 14:26-28)

Just before Jesus is taken up, He says, "But ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you: and ye shall be witnesses unto Me both in Jerusalem, and in all Judaea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth." (Acts 1:8)

"To whom God would make known what is the riches of the glory of this mystery among the Gentiles; which is Christ in you, the hope of glory ..." (Colossians 1:27)

"And because ye are sons, God hath sent forth THE SPIRIT OF HIS SON into your hearts, crying, Abba, Father." (Galatians 4:6)

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

"Which were born, not of blood, nor of the will of the flesh, nor of the will of man, but OF GOD." (John 1:13)

"Now the Lord is THAT SPIRIT: and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is liberty." (II Corinthians 3: 17)

"Examine yourselves, whether ye be in the faith; prove your own selves. Know ye not your own selves, how that Jesus Christ is in you, except ye be reprobates?" (II Corinthians 13:5)

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." (Acts 2:38-39)

When the Holy Ghost comes into your life, you receive both the Father and the Son. One Lord, One faith, One Baptism. One God and Father of all, who is above all, and through all, and in you all." (Ephesians 4:5-6)

[Therefore,] "ye are not in the flesh, but in the Spirit, if so be that the Spirit of God dwell in you. Now if any man have not THE SPIRIT OF CHRIST, he is none of His." (Romans 8: 9)

Yes, indeed, "that which was from the beginning, which we have heard, which we have seen with our eyes, an which we have looked upon, and our hands have handled, of the Word of life; (for the life was manifested, and we have seen and bear witness, and shew that eternal life, which was with the Father, and was manifested unto us;) that which we have seen and heard declare we unto you, that ye also may have fellowship with us: and truly our fellowship is with the Father and with His Son Jesus Christ. And these things write we unto you that your joy may be full." (I John 1:1-4)

Let him/her who hath ears to hear, hear. Stand in the offering plate.

Because Thou Hast Obeyed My Voice - Part 1604

"Wherefore I desire that ye faint not at my tribulations for you, which is your glory. For this cause I bow my knees unto the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, of whom the whole family in heaven and earth is named, that He would grant you, according to the riches of His glory, to be strengthened with might by His Spirit in the inner man; that Christ may dwell in your hearts by faith; that ye, being rooted and grounded in love, may be able to comprehend with all saints what is the breadth, and length, and depth, and height; and to know the love of Christ, which passes knowledge, that ye might be filled with all the fullness of God." (Ephesians 3:13-18)

Currently, we as believers in Jesus by faith live in the period of time referred to as the dispensation of grace. Granted, we follow the SAME Christ that that our fathers did when they were under the cloud, and all passed through the sea; and were all baptized unto Moses in the cloud and in the sea; and did eat all the same spiritual meat, and did drink all the same spiritual drink; for they drank of that spiritual Rock that followed them; and that Rock was Christ." (I Corinthians 10:1-4)

But we are no longer under the law and ordinances of the old covenant, because when the Lord came forth as a mighty man (as prophesied in Isaiah 42:13), He ushered in a new testament. He Himself who knew no sin became sin for us, His body being hanged on a tree. (Deuteronomy 21:23) And in so doing, the vail [veil] which covered the hearts of men was torn from top to bottom -- heaven to earth -- so that we could experience His plan of salvation. His promise to those who were afar off. His free gift of life -- after the kindness and love of God our Saviour. (Titus 3:4-7)

"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)

Further, "what the law could not do, in that it was weak through the flesh, God sending His own Son in the likeness of sinful flesh, and for sin, condemned sin in the flesh:  that the righteousness of the law might be fulfilled in us, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit. For they that are after the flesh do mind the things of the flesh; but they that are after the Spirit the things of the Spirit." (Romans 8:3)

"The law was a shadow of good things to come, and not the very image of the things can never with those sacrifices which they offered year by year, continually make the comers thereunto perfect ... for then would they not have ceased to be offered? Because that the worshipers once purged should have 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 come into the world, He saith, "Sacrifice and offering Thou would 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." Above when He said, "Sacrifices and offerings and burnt offerings and offering for sin Thou would not, neither hadst pleasure therein, which are offered by the law," then said He, "Lo I come to do Thy will, O God, He takes away the first that He may establish the second ... by the which will we are sanctified through the offering of the body of Jesus Christ once for all ..." (Hebrews 10:1-10)

Did you catch that? When we obey His voice in our hearts -- He who loved us so much that He decidedly became our Saviour - and are also water baptized in His Name -- the precious Name of the Lord Jesus, receiving the Holy Ghost in our hearts, we should have -- once purged -- no more conscience of sins. (Acts 2:36-38; Hebrews 10:2; I Peter 3:21-22; Romans 6:3-4)

Why? Because we are saved by grace through faith. Not of our doing, because there is nothing that we could ever do to save ourselves but because of the Lord's sacrifice on the cross through the shedding of His precious blood are we saved. He paid the ultimate price for you and I.

"And this I say, that the covenant that was confirmed before of GOD IN CHRIST, the law, which was four hundred and thirty years after, cannot disannul, that it should make the promise of none effect ... for if the inheritance be of the law, it is no more of promise: but God gave [it] to Abraham by promise. Wherefore then serve the law? It was added because of transgressions, till the Seed should come to whom the promise was made; and it was ordained by angels in the hand of a mediator. Now a mediator is not a mediator of one, but God is one.

Is the law then against the promises of God? God forbid; for if there had been a law given which could have given life, verily, righteousness should have been by the law. But the scripture hath concluded, all under sin that the promise by faith of Jesus Christ might be given to them that believe. But before faith came, we were kept under the law, shut up unto the faith which should afterward be revealed.

Wherefore, the law was our schoolmaster to bring us unto Christ, that we might be justified by faith. But after that faith is come, we are no longer under a schoolmaster. For ye are all the children of God by faith in Jesus Christ ... for as many of you as have been baptized into Christ have put on Christ. There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither bond nor free, there is neither male nor female, for ye are all one in Christ Jesus.

And if ye be Christ's, then are ye Abraham's seed and heirs according to the promise." (Galatians 3:17-29)

Christ hath redeemed us from the curse of the law, being made a curse for us, so that the blessing of Abraham might come on the Gentiles (those who are not Jews) through/in Christ Jesus; that we might receive the promise of the Spirit through faith. (Galatians 3:11-14) This is why the just shall live by faith.

And, as apostle Paul points out -- "And such were some of you, but ye are washed, but ye are sanctified, but ye are justified in the Name of the Lord Jesus and by the Spirit of our God." (I Corinthians 6:11)

If you struggle with this teaching, I encourage you to study the Word of God at every opportunity. He wants His people -- the born again believing body of Christ -- to be in one accord, just as these were on the day of Pentecost, when the first 3,000 souls in the new testament church repented, believing Jesus to be both Lord and Christ, and were water baptized in the Name of the Lord Jesus Christ. Hear ye Him. Obey His voice, saith the Lord. (Acts 2:36; John 3:16; John 1:1-14; John 1:33)

Let him/her with ears to hear, hear what the Lord has to say to His beloved. Stand in the offering plate.

Therefore, Being Justified By Faith, We Have Peace With God Through Our Lord Jesus Christ - Part 1603

"But now in Christ Jesus ye who sometimes were far off are made nigh by the blood of Christ, for He is our peace,who hath made both one, and hath broken down the middle wall of partition [between us[, having abolished in His flesh the enmity, [even] the law of commandments [contained] in ordinances; for to make in Himself twain one new man, so making peace: and that He might reconcile both unto God in one body by a cross, having slain the enmity thereby: and came and preached peace to you which were afar off, and to them that were nigh ... for through Him we both have access by One Spirit unto the Father." (Ephesians 2:13-18)

Jesus sent His Word and the people were healed. In fact, Jesus' Word was power packed. For when Jesus spoke, lo, these would come to pass. Indeed, no Word proceeding from Jesus' mouth was fruitless. Every Word had/has meaning. And as we know today, every Word spoken by Jesus was (and still is) life to those who call upon His Name.

Why? Because God was in Christ. The eternal Spirit of God dwelt in all fullness in the man Jesus. (Colossians 2:9) Yes, God Himself made flesh. (I Timothy 3:16; John 1:1-14) God’s holy Spirit is the one instrumental in bringing the man Jesus into this Adamic creation. Recall what the angel said to Mary -- that which is conceived in you is of the Holy Ghost. (Luke 1:35; Matthew 1:21-23)

Jesus -- not only a Son as modern Biblical translations would have us believe -- but God Himself revealing Himself to one and all. "God, who at sundry times and in diverse manners spake in time past unto the fathers by the prophets ... hath in these last days spoken unto us by His Son, whom He hath appointed heir of all things, by whom also He made the worlds; who being the brightness of [His] glory ..." (Hebrews 1:1-3)

For the Word declares that Jesus is the ONLY BEGOTTEN SON OF GOD. (John 3:16) Jesus performed the miracles. If He were a "created" son as Adam was, there would be no feeding of the 5000 plus. Why? Because it is His Word that had power. Look around. Everything that you see was brought to pass by the Spiritual Word of God. You want to view art? Look around you and listen to the sound effects. Consider His handiwork for which you now have no excuse. This is why with all our learning we ought to seek understanding.

We are God’s workmanship. God is still on His Throne. God is everywhere. The only place that God does not inhabit is a man’s heart and this is because He created us to have choices. Still, when we ask our Lord God and Saviour into our heart, God responds to our faith with His eternal power.

"But after that the kindness and love of God became 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)

And the Apostles were eye witnesses of every aspect of Jesus' life. Therefore, in order for the author to be accurate in his conclusions, he needs to first familiarize himself with the scriptures so that he can discern the truth. "Thy Word is truth." (John 17:17)

The Jesus Apostles chosen by the Spirit of God on the opening day of the Christian faith did not say to the populace that they should keep sacraments in order to be saved. What they did say was this.

"Repent and be baptized every one of you in the Name of Jesus [the] Christ for the remission of sin" and that by so doing they would receive the promise of the Holy Ghost to indwell them. That very same day God added 3,000 faithful persons who -- as the scriptures state -- gladly received the Word. (Acts 2:36-47)

Act 2 marking the beginning of the new testament church.

"Beginning from the baptism of John, unto that same day that He was taken up from us, must one be ordained to be a witness with us of His resurrection ..." (Acts 1:22)

So much to be thankful for!

"Therefore, being justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ, by whom we have access by faith into this grace wherein we stand, and rejoice in home of the glory of God ... " (Romans 5:1-2)

Stand in the offering plate.

Therefore, We Are Buried With Him By Baptism Into Death --Part 1602

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

As we note from the modern day religious culture, water baptism is not performed in the Name of the Lord Jesus Christ (as was every person in the new testament after the cross). To those who accept the Word of God, as it is written, this is an issue, because water baptism is symbolic of putting on the garment of righteousness -- or as some might say, right standing with Jesus. An answer of a good conscience toward the Lord. (I Peter 3:21)

"For Christ also hath once suffered for sins, the just for the unjust, that He might bring us to God, being put to death in the flesh, but quickened by the Spirit: by which also He went and preached unto the spirits in prison; which sometime were disobedient, when once the long suffering of God waited in the days of Noah, while the ark was a preparing, wherein few, that is, eight souls were saved by water. The like figure where unto even baptism doth also now save us (not the putting away of the filth of the flesh, but the answer of a good conscience toward God) by the resurrection of Jesus Christ ..." (I Peter 3:18-21)

And as we know, the Lord Jesus continues this same long suffering for people to respond to His invitation of love in these last days.

Sadly, however, man-made religion spins a different narrative than the water baptism presented in the scriptures, and as a consequence, those who are water baptized in the titles - Father, Son, Holy Spirit, and not in the Name of Jesus just get wet. Moreover, if one tells a lie often enough, the lie becomes perfected. In this context then, it is possible (and even probable) that someone will believe that lie as if it were the truth.

Certainly, if we relate this simple analogy to commercially produced products in stores - those feature items termed as "No Name" brands - we can see how marketing strategies can imply that these products are the same as a name brand. In this case, so many products have appeared under the No Name brand name that in actuality, the No Name brand has become the featured name. So it is also with religions that misrepresent scripture. Their own presentation or version of the scripture becomes almost as if it is in complete accord with the written Word of God.

Note the word "almost". Unfortunately, the fearful thing about this perspective is that they nearly got away with their deceitful presentation. But alas, their veil was rent in twain from the top to the bottom, by the Word of God. For those who still present views that are contrary to the Scriptures, well, unfortunately, they remain entangled in their web of deceit! Only God can open their eyes to the gospel truth.

Still, there are three that bear witness on earth -- the Blood, the Water, and the Spirit. The scriptures are clear on this point for those that search the scriptures for the truth. For further understanding, the following scriptural references may be useful.

1. The Blood .. For God has declared that without the shedding of blood (speaking of Jesus' death on the cross) there is no remission of sin. Further, He said, "This is My blood shed for many for the remission of sin." The first message preached in Acts chapter 2 initially outlined the death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus. Upon preaching Jesus - mankind’s only Redeemer - to the multitudes, conviction took hold of the collective and individual consciences of the audience. With their madness condemned, the audience never had any recourse but to become free from their guilt. So, in desperation they cried to the speakers addressing them saying, "Men and brethren, what must we do?" The response is recorded in Acts 2:38.

The speakers' solution to the troubled consciences did not precede the preaching of the sacrificial crucifixion of Jesus. This is because, as previously stated, that without the shedding of blood there cannot be any remission of sin. Not just any blood, but the blood that was in Jesus' veins -- the blood of the Holy Ghost (holy sinless blood of the only innocent man on this planet earth, with the capability to cancel all of man’s sins and transgressions and subsequently transfer man’s guilt onto Himself). He who knew no sin became sin for you and I. What a loving God and wonderful Saviour!

The apostles, filled with the holy Spirit of Jesus, told the followers what they ought to do to receive the remission of sin purchased of God for their salvation. On that day, as recorded, 3000 persons were baptized into the Name of Jesus and thus eligible to receive the promised free gift of the presence of God’s holy Spirit. We note, that this same Holy Ghost through the apostles said that the people were to be baptized into the name of Jesus. (Acts 1:2-3; Acts 2;36-47) Likewise, earlier in the scriptures, the angel had said that His name should be called Jesus -- for He Jesus shall save His people from their sin. (Matthew 1:21-23)

As such, this is not a NO NAME brand of salvation. The gospel message is specific. For those readers who are still troubled with Matthew chapter 28:19, note that the text that we have is not the original. It was changed from Jesus' name to the titles -- Father, Son, and Spirit. And because an accurate presentation of Matthew 28:19 has not been rendered, the "titles" have become a No Name brand as far as the scriptures are concerned.

Therefore, if Matthew 28:19 is the presentation made in your religious organization, then your preacher is a stranger to the truth. Indeed, whole organizations have been built upon erroneous teaching concerning water baptism but this does not make their teaching accurate. In fact, the ONLY Name whereby you can be saved is by baptism into the Name is Jesus!

"Know ye not that so many of us as were baptized into Jesus Christ were baptized into His death? Therefore, we are buried with Him by baptism into death; that like as Christ was raised up from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life." (Romans 6:3-4)

The scriptures say that we are sanctified by the Word -- Thy Word is truth. Therefore, let's follow the Bible lead. After all, what is written is most certainly the Word of God. And, as a consequence, you to will receive the gift of the Holy Ghost -- the Seed of the Holy Spirit dwelling within you. Study to show thyself approved unto God. Stand in the offering plate.

The Lord Will Give Strength to His People; The Lord Will Bless His People With Peace - Part 1601

"Strengthen ye the weak hands, and confirm the feeble knees. Say to them that are of a fearful heart, "be strong, fear not" -- behold, your God will come with vengeance, [even] God [with] a recompense; He will come and save you ... then the eyes of the blind shall be opened, and the ears of the deaf shall be unstopped. Then shall the lame [man] leap as an hart, and the tongue of the dumb sing: for in the wilderness shall waters break out, and streams in the desert, and the parched ground shall become a pool and the thirsty land springs of water ..." (Isaiah 35:3-6)

Moreover, be kind to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God for Christ's sake hath forgiven us. (Ephesians 4:32) Abounding in the faith in all things, as workers together with Him "providing for honest things, not only in the sight of the Lord, but also in the sight of men." (II Corinthians 6:1; 8:21)

It is for this reason that we -- as believers in Jesus by faith -- "wherefore, lift up the hands which hang down, and the feeble knees; and make straight paths for [y]our feet ... follow peace with all [men] and holiness, without which no man shall see the Lord: looking diligently lest any man fail of the grace of God." (Hebrews 12:12)

And, as a consequence of His love within us, believers can shine brightly to one and all -- like a city situated high on a hill. There is a good news gospel message to share, wherein everyone can personally know the God in whom they worship. His Name in this current dispensation of grace being Jesus. (Matthew 1:21-23)

Jesus -- the Light of the world. (John 1:1-18) Jesus is the Bread of Life. Jesus -- Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the ending, the first and the last. He is the King of kings and Lord of lords.

"After His kindness and love, God became our Saviour." (Titus 3:4-7)

"He was in the world and the world was made by Him and the world knew Him not. He came unto His own and His own received Him not." (John 1:10-11)

The greatest love story ever shared with mankind -- that the very same Lord God who made the universe and everything within loved us as His beloved enough to then become our Saviour Jesus the Christ.

Jesus invites us to come to His feast -- "Come unto Me, all [ye] that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest." (Matthew 11:28)

He being the SAME Lord and Christ who "gives power to the faint. And to them who have no might, He increases strength. Even the youths shall faint and be weary, and the young men shall utterly fall; but they that wait upon the Lord shall renew [their] strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk and not faint ..." (Isaiah 40:29-31; Acts 2:36)

A perfect example of receiving the joy and peace of Jesus -- which surpasses all understanding is the two blind men which followed Jesus. Here were the blind men, crying, and saying, "Thou son of David, have mercy on us."  So much so, that when Jesus came into the house, He said unto them, "Believe ye that I am able to do this?" They said unto Jesus, "Yea, Lord." Then touched He their eyes, saying, "According to your faith be it unto you." And their eyes were opened: and Jesus straitly charged them saying, "See that no man know it."  (Matthew 9:27-30; John 9:6-7; Matthew 11:5)

In essence, the lives of these two men would never be the same. The good news for us today is that the Lord Jesus is still saving people through His saving grace. Healing people from sickness and disease through His touch. And when we have asked Christ Jesus into our heart, and believe on Him as the King of kings and Lord of lords with all our heart, soul, mind and strength, we can be assured that there is therefore now no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit. (Romans 8:1)

So many promises for those who believe on Him and are baptized in His Name -- the precious Name of the Lord Jesus Christ. (Acts 2:36-38)

Paul, in writing to the faithful in Christ Jesus at Ephesus explains salvation this way.

"To the praise 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, both which are in heaven and which are on earth, [even] in Him; in whom also we have obtained an inheritance, being pre-destinated according to the purpose of Him who works all things after the counsel of His own will .. that we should be to the praise of His glory, who first trusted in Christ." (Ephesians 1:3-12)

Be blessed! Stand in the offering plate.

After Jesus Death, Burial and Resurrection, Jesus Opened the Understanding of Redemption to His Disciples - Part 1600

Jesus told Nicodemus -- "Except a man be born again, he cannot see the Kingdom of God."

And further, except a man be born again he cannot enter the kingdom of God. As the scriptures state, that which is flesh (Adam’s offspring) is flesh and that which is Spirit is Spirit. The offspring of JESUS the Christ the promised SEED of the holy Spirit. Therefore, as the scriptures point out, do not be astonished when I say these things.

"There was a man of the Pharisees, named Nicodemus, a ruler of the Jews: the same came to Jesus by night, and said unto him, "Rabbi, we know that Thou art a teacher come from God: for no man can do these miracles that thou doest, except God be with him." Jesus answered and said unto him, "Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God."

Nicodemus saith unto Him, "How can a man be born when he is old? Can he enter the second time into his mother's womb, and be born?" Jesus answered, "Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born of water and of the Spirit, he cannot enter into the kingdom of God. That which is born of the flesh is flesh; and that which is born of the Spirit is Spirit. Marvel not that I said unto thee, Ye must be born again. The wind blows where it lists, and thou hears the sound thereof, but canst not tell whence it comes, and whither it goes: so is every one that is born of the Spirit."

Nicodemus answered and said unto Him, "How can these things be?" Jesus answered and said unto him, "Art thou a master of Israel, and know not these things? Verily, verily, I say unto thee, We speak that we do know, and testify that we have seen; and ye receive not our witness. If I have told you earthly things, and ye believe not, how shall ye believe, if I tell you of heavenly things? And no man hath ascended up to heaven, but He that came down from heaven, even the Son of man which is in heaven. And as Moses lifted up the serpent in the wilderness, even so must the Son of man be lifted up. That whosoever believes in Him should not perish, but have eternal life.

For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believes in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life. For God sent not His Son into the world to condemn the world; but that the world through Him might be saved ... he that believes on Him is not condemned: but he that believes not is condemned already, because he hath not believed in the "Name" of the only begotten Son of God. And this is the condemnation, that light is come into the world, and men loved darkness rather than light, because their deeds were evil." (John 3:1-19)
Herein, people's understanding of spiritual things is likened to a wind which one sometimes hears and feels the breath thereof but cannot tell from where it came from or conversely, where it is going. A man’s life is likened to a vapour of smoke. It appears for a moment in time and then disappears. We were born with a blank slate and through life we accrue wisdom as we sojourn in this kernel of flesh -- which flesh is appointed to death. The death sentence incurred upon all men is a consequence of Adams disobedience in the garden.

"For all have sinned and come short of the glory of God."

This is why this conversation between Jesus and Nicodemus is so important -- because it sets the stage for God's free gift of salvation, wherein after His kindness and love, He Himself became our Saviour. (Titus 3:4-7)

Thus, as Jesus told Nicodemus -- a man must be born again or he cannot see nor understand these things. When Nicodemus said, "How can I being old enter a second time into my mother's womb and be born?" JESUS responds by stating, "Except a man be born of water and Spirit he cannot enter into the Kingdom of God." You see JESUS said that for us to enter God’s Kingdom, we must be born again.

The difficulty is that the growth of one's soul is limited to that which was attained before the fall. Incapable of escaping out of the box of sin. Therefore, in order for man to see the kingdom of God which JESUS spoke of, man first needs to be redeemed from the curse of sin. Inasmuch as all men were under the same curse, redemption necessitated that another who knew no sin should be the means whereby man's redemption could be secured.

This meant that God was the rightful owner of man, for man is the work of God’s hands. God declared man as being created sons of God. As a result of sin, man became fallen sons of God. It is also why God manifested Himself in flesh as a Son securing man's redemption as a gift of love, providing to all men without preferential treatment an equal opportunity to see and enter into the Kingdom.

Further, this is why you must be born again of water and of Spirit. But admittedly, man by himself has no understanding as to how to achieve this new birth. However, after JESUS' death, burial and resurrection, JESUS opened the understanding of His disciples saying that the redemption of mankind had been purchased by the shedding of His Holy Spirit blood availing to man the Kingdom of God.

This is why we are instructed to go and preach among all nations repentance and remission of sin. If men and women repent and are baptized into His death, burial, and resurrection, then as the scriptures state, "I will pour out of My Spirit upon them" and they will become My offspring -- My people -- My nation -- the Israel of God.

If God has touched you, then arise and be baptized into JESUS' death, burial and resurrection and become His redeemed son or daughter being born again. (Acts 2:36-47; Romans 6:3-4)

JESUS on our behalf gave His blood, water and Spirit Life as a Son, bequeathing all to us! Let him/her who has ears to hear, hear.

Stand in the offering plate.

Being Justified Freely By His Grace Through the Redemption That Is In Christ Jesus -- Part 1599

At midnight, Paul and Silas are praying and singing praises unto God, and the prisoners heard them. And suddenly, there was a great earthquake, so that the foundation of the prison was shaken: and immediately all the doors were opened, and every one's bands were loosed. And the keeper of the prison awakening out of his sleep, and seeing the prison doors open, he drew out his sword, and would have killed himself, supposing that the prisoners had been fled.

But Paul cried with a loud voice, saying, "Do thyself no harm: for we are all here." Then he called for a light and sprang in, and came trembling, and fell down before Paul and Silas, and brought them out and said, "Sirs, what must I do to be saved?" And they said, "Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ and thou shalt be saved and thy house." And they spake unto him the Word of the Lord and to all that were in his house. And he took them the same hour of the night, and washed [their] stripes: and was baptized, he and all his, straightway. And when he had brought them into his house, he set meat before them, and rejoiced, believing in God with all his house.

And when it was day, the magistrates sent the serjeants [sergeants], saying, "Let those men go." And the keeper of the prison told this saying to Paul, "The magistrates have sent to let you go: now therefore depart, and go in peace." But Paul said unto them, "They have beaten us openly uncondemned, being Romans, and have cast into prison, and now do they thrust us out privily? Nay, verily, but let them come themselves and fetch us out. And the serjeants [sergeants] told these words unto the magistrates; and they feared, when they heard that they were Romans. And they came and besought them, and brought [them] out, and desired [them] to depart out of the city. And they went out of the prison, and entered into [the house] of Lydia; and when they had seen the brethren, they comforted them and departed." (Acts 16:25-40)

There are several points worth noting here. First, Paul and Silas were in jail. There was no real justification for them being in jail, as noted in the scriptures preceding this example -- other than Paul and Silas preached the gospel in the Name of the Lord Jesus Christ! Nevertheless, the two were in jail and that is the circumstance described above. Note that neither questioned why they were in jail but rather, continued to pray and sing praises unto God while imprisoned. So much so that the prisoners heard them.

In other words, Paul and Silas (in what most would consider dire circumstances) were witnessing and edifying the other prisoners through prayer and praises to the Lord, and that was good. Why? Because the Lord had a purpose that went beyond the prisoners. Indeed, the Lord saw the prison guard's heart. It was the prison guard who we see sleeping on his watch. It was the prison guard who was prepared to kill himself at the turn of events wherein he thought the prisoners had escaped. It was the prison guard whom the Lord was calling into His service that night. (This is not to suggest that there were not prisoners who responded to the gospel that night but just that the account in Acts 16 focuses primarily on the prison guard).

So, when the earth shook, so that the foundations of the prison were shaken and immediately all the doors opened, and every one's bands loosed, the prisoners should have fled. After all, that would have been the logical thing to do. But the prisoners did not flee. Neither did Paul or Silas, because the Lord had a higher purpose for them in the midst of the prison. That was to reach the prison guard with His good news gospel message.

That is, to believe on the Lord Jesus Christ and thou shalt be saved and thy house. (Acts 16:30)

Thus, when Paul and Silas spoke unto him the Word of the Lord, and to all that were in his house, he took them the same hour of the night and washed [their] stripes and were baptized, he and all his straightway. In other words, the prison guard and all his family gladly received the Word.

"And when he had brought them into his house, he set meat before them, and rejoiced, believing in God with all his house." (Acts 16:34)

Just like Lydia (a seller of purple whose heart the Lord opened) and her household who also gladly received the Word of the Lord, and were baptized. (Acts 16:14-15) This is important because when they went out of the prison, they entered into the house of this very same Lydia, and when they saw the brethren therein, they comforted them before departing.

Therefore, one of the lessons worth noting here is that everything happens for a reason, even when we ourselves do not understand or comprehend the totality of the why. But that is not all. There is another message equally of merit. That is, Paul and Silas did not change the gospel message because of their circumstance in jail. These did not stop praying and praising God because the future (at least from a human mindset) did not look promising. Instead, Paul and Silas continued to trust the Lord, knowing that even in this, the Lord would receive all the glory, and His Kingdom expanded.

Also, therein, is another lesson whereby the foolish confound the wise, because in believing in Jesus these were led in their day to day by the Holy Ghost. These did not flee the prison as the world would fully expect, having been set free, but remained in the prison. The leading of the Holy Ghost -- to do what is right and true -- giving the directive, one that extends beyond believers Paul and Silas.

Let me elaborate. When the prison doors were open, ALL the prisoners' bands were loosed. ALL the prisoners could have fled. ALL the prisoners had an opportunity to be set free. The Lord extended His goodness and mercy to ALL the prisoners in this circumstance -- as the Lord often explains -- the rain falls on both the good and the evil. He is not a respecter of persons, as fully evidenced here. He is the Giver of Life, and life more abundantly. His free gift of salvation, offered willingly to one and all. He became the perfect sacrifice on the cross for His beloved -- those who believe in Jesus by faith, and are water baptized in His Name -- the Name of the Lord Jesus Christ. (Acts 2:36-47)

And His promise to you and I?

"There is therefore now no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit ... for the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus hath made me free from the law of sin and death." (Romans 8:1-2)

The prisoners did not leave the jail because they had a glimpse of Paul and Silas' joy that comes with the revelation that there is therefore now no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus.

Sadly, however, the true gospel message (that is the good news gospel of Jesus Christ that leads to newness of life) is currently being changed according to the modern day religious whims of men. There are those in the midst of us today who claim to be believers and yet openly reject the good news gospel "as it is written." These are rejecting water baptism in the Name of the Lord Jesus, quickly dismissing the message presented by Peter (standing with the eleven) on the day of Pentecost. (Acts 2:36-47) These reject the Word of the Lord -- even when Paul and Silas "spake unto [the prison guard] the Word of the Lord." (Acts 16:32) These reject the counsel of God against themselves. (Luke 7:29-30)

In so doing, the ultimate rejection of Jesus who is both Lord and Christ. (Acts 2:36) The Lord Himself coming forth as a mighty man. (Isaiah 42:13; Isaiah 9:6)

Still, the presentation these make sounds enticing. Their fine sounding words are presented as truth, and yet only half scriptures are used as a basis for their argument. For example, these quote a portion of Romans 6:23 -- "For the wages of sin is death" without ever acknowledging that the remainder of this scripture -- the very promise from the Lord is this --  " ... the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord!"

These focus on the word "wages" without ever taking into context the remainder of Romans 6 (wherein, ironically, water baptism is also mentioned in verses 6:3-4) that as Christ was raised up from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life. These don't acknowledge that if "we have been planted together in the likeness of His death, we shall be also in the likeness of His resurrection: knowing this, that our old man is crucified with [Him], that the body of sin might be destroyed, that henceforth we should not serve sin." (Romans 6:3-6)

Rather, these emphasize and attempt to explain away the goodness and grace of our Lord Jesus from a negative perspective, as if somehow, their words w/could supersede the Word of the Lord. Nevertheless what saith the Lord?

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

You see, only those with vain intentions and no understanding that there is an eternity beyond this earthly life would attempt to delude the Word of the Lord into half truths, focusing solely on a negative, without ever alluding to the numerous promises that the Lord Jesus freely gives to those who believe in Him -- within the very same passage of scripture. Indeed, there used to be a song we would sing - "Standing on the promises of Christ my King" -- but I digress.

My point is this. We as believers in Jesus the Christ need to become fully literate in the Word of the Lord so that we are not deceived. As believers, we need to understand and recognize that these types of presentations (that are even a little off the mark -- a slight variance from the apostolic doctrine that we are to remain steadfast in) -- is indeed, deception -- a lie that leads people away from the truth and liberty wherewith is Christ.

But Jesus has set us free and this gospel message remains true in spite of those who deny the kindness and love of our Lord God and Saviour Jesus the Christ. (Titus 3:4-7; I Timothy 3:16) So, to that end, and in that context, I encourage each and every one of you to become learned in the things of the heavenly.

"Study the scriptures to show thyself approved unto God, a workman that need not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the Word of truth. But shun profane [and] vain babblings; for they will increase unto more ungodliness, and their word will eat as doth a canker of whom is Hymenaeus and Philetus; who concerning the truth have erred, saying that the resurrection is past already, and overthrow the faith of some.

Nevertheless, the foundation of God stands sure, having this seal. The Lord knows them that are His. And, let every one that names the name of Christ depart from iniquity." (II Timothy 2:15-19)

As believers we need to understand that in a great house there are not only vessels of gold and silver, but also of wood and of earth, and therefore, some to honour, and some to dishonour.

Therefore, being justified by faith, and sanctified by the Word, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ; by whom also we have access by faith into this grace wherein we stand, and rejoice in hope of the glory of God. (Romans 5:1-2)

Thus, the remainder of the story, straight from the Word of the Lord!

"For he that is dead is freed from sin. Now if we be dead with Christ we believe that we shall also live with Him: knowing that Christ being raised from the dead dies no more; death hath no more dominion over him. For in that he died, he died unto sin once; but in that he lives, he lives unto God. Likewise, reckon ye also yourselves to be dead indeed unto sin; but alive unto God through Jesus Christ our Lord.

Let not sin therefore reign in your mortal body, that ye should obey it in the lusts thereof. Neither yield ye your members as instruments of righteousness unto sin: but yield yourselves unto God, as those that are alive from the dead, and your members as instruments of righteousness unto God. for ins shall not have dominion over you; for ye are not under the law, but under grace.

What then? Shall we sin because we are not under the law, but under grace? God forbid. Know ye not that to whom ye yield yourselves servants to obey, h/His servants are to whom ye obey; whether of sin unto death, or of obedience unto righteousness? But God be thanked, that ye WERE the servants of sin, but ye have obeyed from the heart that form of doctrine which was delivered you. Being then made free from sin, ye became the servants of righteousness.

I speak after the manner of men because of the infirmity of your flesh; for as ye have yielded your members servants to uncleanness and to iniquity unto iniquity; even so now yield your members servants to righteousness unto holiness. For when ye were the servants of sin, ye were free from righteousness. What fruit had ye then in those things whereof ye are now ashamed? For the end of those things is death.

But now being made free from sin, and become servants to God, ye have your fruit unto holiness, and the end everlasting life. For the wages of sin is death: but the gift of God [is] eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord." (Romans 6:1-23)

Stand in the offering plate.

The Word of the Lord Which Came Is Coming Again - Part 1598

"For yourselves know perfectly that the day of the Lord so comes as a thief in the night ..." (I Thessalonians 5:2)

"The great day of the Lord is near, [it is] near, and hasteth greatly, [even] the voice of the day of the Lord: the mighty man shall cry there bitterly. That day is a day of wrath, a day of trouble and distress, a day of wasteness and desolation, a day of darkness and gloominess, a day of clouds and thick darkness, a day of the trumpet and alarm against the fenced cities, and against the high towers ..." (Zephaniah 1:14-16)

For the prophecy came not in old time by the will of man: but holy men of God spake as [they were] moved by the Holy Ghost. But there were false prophets also among the people, even as there shall be false teachers among you, who privily shall bring in damnable heresies, even denying the Lord that bought them, and bring upon themselves swift destruction. And many shall follow their pernicious ways; by reason of whom the way of truth shall be evil spoken of.

And through covetousness shall they with feigned words make merchandise of you; whose judgment now of a long time lingers not, and their damnation slumbers not. For if God spared not the angels that sinned, but cast [them] down to hell, and delivered [them] into chains of darkness, to be reserved unto judgment; and spared not the old world, but saved Noah the eighth [person], a preacher of righteousness, bringing in the flood upon the world of the ungodly. And turning the cities of Sodom and Gomorrha into ashes condemned them with an overthrow, making [them] an ensample unto those that after should live ungodly; and delivered just Lot, vexed with the filthy conversation of the wicked; (For that righteous man dwelling among them in seeing and hearing, vexed [his] righteous soul from day to day with [their] unlawful deeds).

Moreover, the Lord knows how to deliver the godly out of temptations and to reserve the unjust unto the day of judgment to be punished; but chiefly them that walk after the flesh in the lust of uncleanness, and despise government. Presumptuous [are they] self willed, they are not afraid to speak evil of dignities, whereas angels, which are greater in power and might, bring not railing accusation against them before the Lord.

But these, as natural brute beasts made to be taken and destroyed, speak evil of the things that they understand not; and shall utterly perish in their own corruption; and shall receive the reward of unrighteousness as they that count it pleasure to riot in the day time. Spots [they are] and blemishes, sporting themselves with their own deceiving while they feast with you; having eyes full of adultery, and that cannot cease from sin; beguiling unstable souls; an heart they have exercised with covetous practices; cursed children, which have forsaken the right way and are gone astray, following the way of Balaam, [the son] of Bosor, who loved the wages of unrighteousness -- but was rebuked for his iniquity; the dumb [donkey] speaking with man's voice forbade the madness of the prophet.

These are wells without water, clouds that are carried with a tempest; to whom the mist of darkness is reserved for ever. For when they speak great swelling words of vanity, they allure through the lusts of the flesh, [through much] wantonness, those that were clean escaped from them who live in error.

While they promise the liberty, they themselves are the servants of corruption; for of whom a man is overcome, of the same is he brought in bondage. For if after they have escaped the pollutions of the world through the knowledge of the Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ, they are again entangled therein, and overcome, the latter end is worse with them than the beginning.

For it had been better for them not to have known the way of righteousness, than, after they have known [it], to turn from the holy commandment delivered unto them. But it is happened unto them according to the true proverb -- the dog is turned to his own vomit again; and the sow that was washed to her wallowing in the mire. (II Peter 2:1-22)

But as Jesus said, when He walked upon the earth, He shall come again, and blessed are those servants whom the Lord (when He comes) shall find watching.

"And this know, that if the good man of the house had known what hour the thief would come, he would have watched, and not have suffered his house to be broken through. Be ye therefore ready also; for the Son of man comes at an hour when ye think not." (Luke 12:39; Matthew 24:42-43)

Be watchful. Strengthen the things which remain. Remember therefore how thou hast received and heard, and hold fast, and repent. Beloved, build yourselves on your most holy faith, praying in the Holy Ghost. Keep yourselves in the love of God, looking for the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ unto eternal life. Don't let anyone defile your garment -- but rather walk with the Lord Jesus in everything you do. Most of all, keep your lights burning as a city on a hill -- proclaiming His goodness and love and grace.

Stand in the offering plate.

And the Peace of God, Which Passes All Understanding Shall Keep Your Hearts and Minds Through Christ Jesus - Part 1597

"Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, if there be any praise, think on these things. Those things which ye have both learned, and received, and heard, and seen in me, do: and the God of peace shall be with you." (Philippians 4:8-9)

When we come to the Lord Jesus, our minds and hearts are changed -- if so that ye have heard Him, and have been taught by Him, as the truth is in Jesus. (Ephesians 4:20-21) We are renewed in the spirit of our mind, so that we put on the new man, which after God is created in righteousness and true holiness. (Ephesians 4:23-24) Moreover, no longer do we have the sentence of death in ourselves that we should trust in ourselves, but rather, in God which raises the dead, who delivered us from so great a death, and doth deliver; in whom we trust that He will yet deliver [us]." (II Corinthians 1:9-10)

Yes, Jesus -- the King of kings and Lord of lords, Alpha and Omega, the first and the last, the beginning and the ending -- who willingly became the perfect sacrifice on the cross for you and I. He shed His blood so that we might experience His free gift of salvation. The exceeding greatness of His power to us-ward who believe in Jesus the Christ by faith and are then baptized in His precious Name -- the Name of Jesus! (Revelation 1:8,11; Ephesians 1:19; Acts 2:36-47)

"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 ..." (Ephesians 1:7-10)

The greatest love story ever told, that after His kindness and love, God became our Saviour. (Titus 3:4-7)

Thus, our rejoicing is this -- the testimony of our conscience, that in simplicity and godly sincerity, not with fleshly wisdom, but by the grace of God, we have had our conversation in the world, and more abundantly to you-ward. But not in order to have dominion over one's faith, as Paul wrote unto the church of God which is at Corinth, and to all the saints which are in all Acahaia, but that we "are helpers of your joy: for by faith ye stand." (II Corinthians 1:12, 24)

Indeed, we have a high calling that supersedes the wisdom and knowledge of this world, for the kingdom of God is not in word, but in power.

"Now He which stablish us with you in Christ, and hath anointed us, [is] God; who hath also sealed us and given the earnest of the Spirit in our hearts ..." (II Corinthians 1:22)

" .... which is the earnest of our inheritance, until the redemption of the purchased possession unto the praise of His glory, wherefore, I also, after I heard of your faith in the Lord Jesus, and love unto all the saints, cease not to give thanks for you, making mention of you in my prayers; that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of glory, may give unto you the Spirit of wisdom and revelation in the knowledge of Him: the eyes of your understanding being enlightened; that ye may know what is the hope of His calling, and what the riches of the glory of His inheritance in the saints, and what is the exceeding greatness of His power to us-ward who believe, according to the working of His mighty power, which He wrought in Christ when He raised Him from the dead, and set [Him] at His own right hand in the heavenly [places], far above all principality and power, and might, and dominion, and every name that is named, not only in this world, but also in that which is to come; and hath put all [things] under His feet, and gave Him [to be] the Head over all [things] to the church, which is His body, the fullness of Him that fills all in all." (Ephesians 1:14-23)

This is why we are no longer strangers and foreigners, but instead 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 -- in whom all the building fitly framed together grows 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)

How? According to the eternal purpose which He purposed for us in Christ Jesus.

"But now in Christ Jesus ye who sometimes were far off are made nigh by the blood of Christ, for He is our peace." (Ephesians 2:13-14)

Repent and ask the Lord Jesus into your heart today. Open a new testament and begin to understand His peace and joy that surpasses all human understanding. Let Him cuddle you in His loving arms. Stand in the offering plate.