We Are The Offspring Of Jesus Who Has Seeded Us and Fathered Us In His Death -- Part 1669

"O man, who art thou that repliest against God? Shall the thing formed say to Him that formed it --"Why hast Thou made me thus? Hath not the potter power over the clay, of the same lump to make one vessel unto honour, and another unto dishonour? What if God, willing to shew His wrath, and to make His power known, endured with much long suffering the vessels of wrath fitted to destruction:and that He might make known the riches of His glory on the vessels of mercy, which He had afore prepared unto glory, even us, whom He hath called, not of the Jews only, but also of the Gentiles?" (Romans 9:20)

When we ask Jesus to be Lord in our life, and continue in the faith, being water baptized in the Name of the Lord Jesus Christ, we become members of the body of Christ! As Jesus references, we are no longer servants but His friends, knowledgeable of all things pertaining to the kingdom. Let me say here that the Lord is not a respecter of persons, but that He would have us all -- each and every one of us -- come into His knowledge and truth. (Acts 2:36)

Indeed, Jesus said, "I have called and ordained you ..."

Thus, within the body of Christ, each believing member exercises a particular function according to the operational gifts imparted to them by His holy Spirit. But this includes, on our part, a heart's desire for spiritual gifts. Then, to each one of us, He divides the gifts severally as He wills. In this context, the Holy Ghost bestows gifts to each member so that they - through the exercise of these given gifts - can operate effectively for the ministry of the gospel. So that the whole body of the Christ (which is the temple of the Spirit of God) may remain vibrant.

"Now concerning spiritual gifts, brethren, I would not have you ignorant. Ye know that ye were Gentiles, carried away unto these dumb idols, even as ye were led. Wherefore I give you to understand, that no man speaking by the Spirit of God calleth Jesus accursed: and that no man can say that Jesus is the Lord, but by the Holy Ghost.

Now there are diversities of gifts, but the same Spirit. And there are differences of administrations, but the same Lord. And there are diversities of operations, but it is the same God which worketh all in all. But the manifestation of the Spirit is given to every man to profit withal. For to one is given by the Spirit the word of wisdom; to another the word of knowledge by the same Spirit; to another faith by the same Spirit; to another the gifts of healing by the same Spirit; to another the working of miracles; to another prophecy; to another discerning of spirits; to another divers kinds of tongues; to another the interpretation of tongues -- but all these worketh that one and the selfsame Spirit, dividing to every man severally as he will. (I Corinthians 12:1-11)

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

As well, the body of the Christ can be recognized by unbelievers (or those outsiders among us who are not yet saved) as being the offspring of JESUS. So that they too can declare the body of the Christ to be JESUS people, reporting that the God of truth is in the midst of them. The Light of the world dwells within them.

Certainly, we saw the apostles and the 120 followers of the Lord Jesus Christ on the day of Pentecost become world changers -- and, similarly, how the gifts can edify and instruct -- are able to transform those who believe this same Jesus -- whom ye/we have crucified to be both Lord and Christ. (Acts 2:1-47) Given this same prophecy was revealed in Joel 2, this scriptural package is instrumental in showing us how the promises of the Lord God can be revealed in our lives.

"And it shall come to pass afterward, that I will pour out My Spirit upon all flesh; and your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, your old men shall dream dreams, your young men shall see visions:
and also upon the servants and upon the handmaids in those days will I pour out My Spirit. And I will shew wonders in the heavens and in the earth, blood, and fire, and pillars of smoke.

The sun shall be turned into darkness, and the moon into blood, before the great and terrible day of the Lord come. And it shall come to pass, that whosoever shall call on the Name of the Lord shall be delivered: for in mount Zion and in Jerusalem shall be deliverance, as the Lord hath said, and in the remnant whom the Lord shall call." (Joel 2:28-32)

But I digress. Getting back to the original point --  We are the offspring of JESUS who has SEEDED us and fathered us in His death. JESUS is likened to a corn of wheat that has fallen into the ground and died and by reason of the kernel flesh dying, the SEED within the kernel (flesh) exposes the SEED of LIFE. From that SEED brings forth a harvest of new wheat - or in this analogy, JESUS PEOPLE. The same life that was in the original SEED now indwells the offspring who also now within themselves carry the SEED of Christ!

So it is not really the "old" you that is the driving force working within you. Rather, it is the power of the Holy Ghost which was in the man JESUS the Christ. [Note that when we believe and are baptized the Holy Ghost now completely dwells in you.] We believed in the sacrificial offering of the body of Christ, who we repeatedly declare is the very SEED of the Holy Ghost. We having sincerely believed, having called upon His name JESUS, being baptized in water after the likeness of His burial, and having willingly obeyed, we arose from the water a new spiritual creation. Now we are alive to the awareness that it was God in the man Christ JESUS who loved us and laid down His life for each believer’s personal redemption. (Acts 2:36-38; Romans 6:3-4; Acts 10:44-48)

Therefore, we are the offspring of the SEED of the Holy Ghost, the kernel covering the SEED of the Holy Ghost that died in order to permit the SEED of life within the kernel to multiply. Thus, we are now many offspring of that one SEED body whose body is the Christ. And as such, the work of the Holy Ghost that brought forth redemption is finished. Moreover, the keys to the Kingdom of God we have received and JESUS has commissioned believers to go into all the world and preach this redemption - salvation - good news gospel message to one and all.

"As He saith also in Osee, I will call them My people, which were not My people; and her beloved, which was not beloved. And it shall come to pass, that in the place where it was said unto them, "Ye are not My people; there shall they be called the children of the living God." (Romans 9:25)

We should be so thankful for the work that the Lord Jesus has begun in us. Stand in the offering plate.

"I Have Set Thee To Be A Light of the Gentiles, That Thou Shouldest Be For Salvation Unto the Ends of the Earth" - Part 1668

"" ... I will also give Thee for a light to the Gentiles, that Thou mayest be My salvation unto the end of the earth." (Isaiah 49:6)

Thus saith the Lord, "In an acceptable time I have heard Thee, and in a day of salvation have I helped Thee, and in a day of salvation have I helped Thee; and I will preserve Thee, and give Thee for a covenant of the people, to establish the earth, to cause to inherit the desolate heritages; that Thou mayest say to the prisoners -- "Go forth" "to them that are in darkness; Shew yourselves." They shall feed in the ways and their pastures [shall be]  in all high places. They shall not hunger nor thirst; neither shall the heat nor sun smite them: for He that hath mercy on them shall lead them, even by the springs of water shall He guide them ..." (Isaiah 49:8-10)

Thus saith God the Lord, "He that created the heavens and stretched them out; He that spread forth the earth, and that which cometh out of it; He that given breath unto the people upon it, and Spirit to them that walk therein. I the Lord have called thee in righteousness, and will hold thine hand, and will keep thee, and give thee for a covenant of the people, for a light of the Gentiles -- to open the blind eyes, to bring out the prisoners from the prison, and them that sit in darkness out of the prison house. I [am] the Lord: that [is] My Name, and My glory will I not give to another, neither My praise to graven images. Behold, the former things are come to pass, and new things do I declare; before they spring forth I tell you of them. Sing unto the Lord a new song, and His praise from the end of the earth, ye that go down to the sea, and all that is therein; the isles and the inhabitants thereof." (Isaiah 42:5-10)

Herein, the Lord (through the prophet Isaiah) is announcing His coming plan of salvation to the world. In speaking, the Lord is foretelling of the events still to occur, so that those who heard could know that the Lord God was going to "lift up Mine hand to the Gentiles." (Isaiah 49:22) And we see the Lord's Christ revealed in Luke 2:25-35 with Simeon who had been waiting for the consolation of Israel; the Holy Ghost being upon him.

"And it was revealed unto him by the Holy Ghost, that he should not see death before he had seen the Lord's Christ." (Luke 2:26) 

Thus, when he took Jesus up in his arms, he blessed God and said, "Lord, now lettest thou Thy servant depart in peace, according to Thy Word -- for mine eyes have seen Thy salvation, which Thou hast prepared before the face of all people, a light to light the Gentiles, and the glory of Thy people Israel.

As the angel and a multitude of the heavenly host had announced to the shepherds (tending their sheep in the field) -- "Glory to God in the highest, and on earth, peace, good will toward men." (Luke 2:14) 

The new testament was being ushered in. And for this cause, He is the mediator of the new testament that by means of death, for the redemption of the transgressions that were under the first testament, they which are called might receive the promise of eternal inheritance. For where a testament [is], there must also of necessity be the death of the testator." (Hebrews 9:14-18)

In other words, there had to be a purchase. "And after the second veil, the tabernacle which is called the Holiest of all ..." (Hebrews 9:3) But we know that as long as the first covenant (with its ordinances of divine service, and a worldly sanctuary) was still standing, the Holiest of all could not yet be made manifest -- as signified by the Holy Ghost in Hebrews 9:8.

But then God commanded the light to shine out of darkness and hath shined in our hearts -- "To [give] the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ ..." (II Corinthians 4:5) 

" ... the light of the glorious gospel of Christ -- who is the image of God -- should shine unto them!" (II Corinthians 4:4)

This is why understanding what happened when Jesus was water baptized by John the baptist/baptizer is critical. But not as the modern day religious culture and traditions of men teaches, but rather as the scripture elaborates -- rightly dividing the Word. (II Timothy 2:15) 

Jesus said, "These [are] the words which I spake unto you, while I was yet with you, that all things must be fulfilled, which were written in the law of Moses, and [in] the prophets, and [in] the psalms concerning Me." (Luke 24:44-45)

Thus, as we understand from John baptizing Jesus, the Son of God [named Jesus] was baptized, the Spirit descended like a dove, and a voice spoke from heaven. Yes? If we only examine this one scripture from Matthew 3:16-17, we are left with a plural understanding of God, even when the first commandment dictates that the Lord thy God is one. (Deuteronomy 6:4; Mark 12:29-31) So what is happening here? Let's examine the scriptures.

"And Jesus, when He was baptized, went up straightway out of the water: and, lo, the heavens were opened unto Him, and He saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove, and lighting upon Him: And lo a voice from heaven, saying, "This is My beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased" (Matthew 3:16-17).

Luke 3:22 adds that the heaven was opened. "And the Holy Ghost descended in a bodily shape like a dove upon Him, and a voice came from heaven, which said, "Thou art My beloved Son; in Thee I am well pleased." (Luke 3:22)

To understand, we need to remember that God is omnipresent; His right arm bringing forth salvation to the Gentiles. We also need to recognize that Jesus is God and was God manifested in the flesh. (I Timothy 3:16) "The fullness of the Godhead dwelt bodily in Him." (Colossians 1:17; Colossians 2:9) 

"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)

At the same time, God did not sacrifice His omnipresence while on earth. The same Spirit of the Lord God who moved upon the face of the waters in the very beginning was the same Spirit of the Lord God which dwelt in the physical body of Christ Jesus. (Genesis 1:2) After His kindness and love, God became our Saviour. (Titus 3:4-7)

A good analogy might be to think of taking a cup of water from the ocean. The separated cup of water retains the same qualities and attributes of the water in the ocean, but does not (as a consequence of being apart from the ocean) prevent the tides from continuing to beat against the shoreline - as established in the beginning as part of God's perfect timing. 

"No man hath ascended up to heaven, but He that came down from heaven, even the Son of man which is in heaven." (John 3:13)

Because of who Jesus said He was ["I and My Father are ONE!" -- John 10:30; "If ye had known Me ye should have known My Father also; and from henceforth ye know Him and have seen Him" -- John 14:6-12], He was both on earth and in heaven at the same time.

From this perspective, it is easy to understand that the Spirit of Jesus could speak from heaven while sending a manifestation of His Spirit in the form of a dove to remain on Him as a sign both for John the baptist/baptizer and those observing. Still, who did we see in the Jordan River? We saw only Jesus! And this same "seeing Jesus" is indicative of examples in other scriptures, like the transfiguration on the mount. But I digress.

Perhaps, we should first ask -- what was the purpose of Jesus' baptism? Certainly, He was not baptized for remission of sin as we are, because He was sinless. "Who did not sin, neither was guile found in His mouth." (I Peter 2:22) Instead, the Bible says He was baptized to fulfill all righteousness. And Jesus answering said unto John, "Suffer [it to be so now;] for thus it becomes us to fulfill all righteousness." (Matthew 3:15; Mark 1:10; Isaiah 11:2; John 1:32) Therefore, Jesus herein is our example. He was water baptized in the River Jordan, thus leaving us His example to follow. (I Peter 2:21)

Moreover, Jesus was baptized to make Himself known to Israel, and as a starting point for His ministry on earth. A public declaration if you will of who Jesus was, and what He had intended to do. Again, Jesus was fulfilling the prophecies which had been told afore. We see this even in John, the messenger that went forth as the voice of one crying in the wilderness, telling one and all to "make straight the way of the Lord" [as said the prophet Isaiah, and also spoken of in Malachi 3]. Thus, John answered the Pharisees saying, "I baptize with water but there standeth one among you whom ye know not. He it is, who coming after me is preferred before me, whose shoe's latchet I am not worthy to unloose." (John 1:26-27) But as we also understand from John 1:33, John knew Him not.

At least not until this point. John needed a sign to acknowledge that Jesus was indeed the Messiah. This is why the Holy Ghost had previously indicated to John -- "Upon whom thou shalt see the Spirit descending and remaining on Him, the same is He which baptizes with the Holy Ghost." (John 1:33) When John saw this occur, he "bare record that this is the Son of God. (John 1:34) That Jesus was the prophesied Lamb of God who would take away the sin of the world. (John 1:29-34; Matthew 1:21-23)

Having now established the purpose of Christ's baptism, we can understand that the dove was a sign for the benefit of John the baptist. (John 1:32-33) And since John was incapable of seeing the Spirit of God anointing Christ, God used the likeness of a dove to be the visible sign of His Spirit. Since Jesus was God Himself manifest in the flesh, the Lord coming forth as a mighty man, He remained sinless. (I Timothy 3:16; Isaiah 42:13; Isaiah 9:6) Therefore, the symbolic oil from the old covenant was not sufficient. This is why Jesus was anointed directly by the Spirit of God. 

As for the voice that came from heaven, that was for the benefit of the people. We see a similar account of a voice from heaven in John 12:20-33, Matthew 17:1-9, and Luke 9:28-36. In all accounts (including Jesus' baptism), Jesus was always found alone. His disciples only saw Jesus.

Again, the miraculous voice from heaven was for the benefit of those standing on the shore (and by extension, for us today to understand that Jesus was He who would preach the acceptable year of the Lord. God's way of formally introducing Jesus to Israel as the One and Only -- and for them to "Hear ye Him!" (Matthew 17:5)

Jesus -- the second Adam being the Lord from heaven. (I Corinthians 15:47) [Note the first Adam was the son of God but earthly-- Luke 3:38]

"This is My beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased." (Matthew 3:17) In John 12:30, Jesus explains that the voice was not for Him but for the people "Jesus answered and said, "This voice came not because of Me, but for your sakes ..." (John 12:30)

This is why Jesus said, "He that believes on Me, believes not on Me but on Him that sent Me [because] he that sees Me sees Him that sent Me. I am come a light into the world, that whosoever believes on Me should not abide in darkness ...." (John 12:44-50)

Yes, Jesus knowing that the Father had given ALL things into His hands also knew "that He was come from God" and that He similarly would be going back -- "went to God." (John 13:3)

We need to understand this too. Jesus is the greatest love story ever told. He wrote His own love story in both the heavens and on earth -- for one and all to behold, signed with His very own precious holy blood on that cross for you and I. 

Indeed, as Jesus said, "Now I tell you before it come, that when it is come to pass, ye may believe that I am He." (John 13:19) 

Jesus - Alpha and Omega, the first and the last, the beginning and the ending. Jesus -- King of kings and Lord of lords. 

Get to know Jesus today. Find a King James (or earlier translation) of the new testament and begin reading the greatest love story ever told. Make notes. Underline those scriptures which stand out and make your heart dance as you continue to hide His Word in your heart. And make Jesus your all in all, because He alone is worthy of our praise and honour. 

Stand in the offering plate.

For A Great Door and Effectual Is Opened - Part 1667

Too often, we hear the term dispensationalism outside of the context of Galatians 3. I believe it is critical that we understand what apostle Paul (who received His understanding of the gospel by revelation, and from Annanias) -- the appointed messenger unto the Gentiles hath said, so that we do not err from the truth and knowledge of the gospel of Jesus Christ, nor from the liberty wherein is Christ. For clarity, I will first post the questions upon questions posed by Paul to the Galatians, and then offer Paul's further instruction (to the faithful and saints at Corinth, and therefore, us by extension) for your learning and edification.

"O foolish Galatians, who hath bewitched you, that ye should not obey the truth, before whose eyes Jesus Christ hath been evidently set forth, crucified among you? This only would I learn of you, "Received ye the Spirit by the works of the law, or by the hearing of faith? Are ye so foolish? having begun in the Spirit, are ye now made perfect by the flesh? Have ye suffered so many things in vain? if it be yet in vain. He therefore that ministereth to you the Spirit, and worketh miracles among you, doeth he it by the works of the law, or by the hearing of faith?"

Even as Abraham believed God, and it was accounted to him for righteousness. 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 continueth 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 doeth them shall live in them."

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 hangeth 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, no man disannulleth, or addeth 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 serveth 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 3:1-29)

If we believe in the Lord Jesus by faith, and are water baptized by immersion in His precious Name -- the Name of the Lord Jesus Christ -- we are the children of God by faith in Jesus Christ. (Acts 2:36-47; Acts 10:44-48; Romans 6:3-4; I Peter 3:21) And we shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost!

But in reaching this critical point of understanding, let's not forget also apostle Paul's message in II Corinthians 3. That is, in part, "For if that which [was] glorious, much more that which remains [is] glorious. Seeing then that we have such hope, we use great plainness of speech: and not as Moses, which put a vail over his face, that the children of Israel could not steadfastly look to the end of that which is abolished; but their minds were blinded: for until this day remains the SAME VAIL UNTAKEN AWAY in the reading of the old testament; which vail is done away in Christ.

But even unto this day, when Moses is read, the vail is upon their heart. Nevertheless, when it shall turn to the Lord, the vail shall be taken away. Now the Lord is that Spirit, and where the Spirit of the Lord [is], there is liberty. But we all, with open face beholding as in a glass the glory of the Lord, are changed into the same image from glory to glory, [even] as by the Spirit of the Lord." (II Corinthians 3:11-18)

"The first man Adam was made a living soul; the last Adam [was made] a quickening Spirit." (I Corinthians 15:45)

I pray that you all have eyes to see and ears to hear. Take hold of this glorious gospel of the Lord Jesus Christ today. Stand firm in His truth, and knowledge, and wisdom. And don't let those 21st century interpretations cloud the scripture which is written, because the Word of the Lord is truth, and therein are we sanctified.

Watch ye, stand fast in the faith which our Lord God personally delivered to His beloved, and be strong. Stand in the offering plate. 

This Is The Work of God; That Ye Believe On Him Whom He Hath Sent - Part 1656

Jesus said, "This is the work of God -- that ye believe on HIM whom He hath sent!" (John 6:28-29)

The circumstance is this. Jesus has just fed the five thousand with five barley loaves and two small fishes. Jesus took the loaves and gave thanks before distributing the bread to the disciples, who then in turn, distributed to them that were set down. He also did the same with the fish. When the disciples gathered up the fragments that remained, they gather together and filled twelve baskets with the fragments of the five barley  loaves, which remained over and above them that had eaten.

When the crowd who had seen the miracle Jesus performed wanted to subsequently take Jesus by force and make Him a King, He departed again into a mountain Himself alone. When these people finally caught up with Jesus on the other side of the sea, they said unto Him, "Rabbi, when camest Thou thither?" (John 6:25)

Jesus proceeds to tell them that these did not seek Him because of the miracles He performed but rather, as Jesus says -- "because ye did eat of the loaves and were filled." A sad commentary, to say the least. Nevertheless, the Lord then informs them to labour not for the meat which perishes "but for the meat which endures unto everlasting life, which the Son of man shall give unto you: for Him hath God the Father sealed." (John 6:26-27)

These then ask Jesus, "What shall we do that we might work the works of God?" Jesus answers, saying, "This is the work of God -- that ye believe on HIM whom He hath sent!" (John 6:28-29)

The work of God in this current dispensation of grace is that we believe on Him whom He hath sent. To believe on His precious Name that was given specifically for this time in which we live. (Matthew 1:21-23) Note that the scriptures offer further clarity on this point. Jesus said, "I am the Way, the Truth, and the Life. No man cometh to the Father but by Me." (John 14:6)

And, as Jesus reveals to Philip in this same scriptural passage -- "If ye had known Me, ye should have known My Father also; and from henceforth ye know Him and have seen Him." (John 14:7)

Why is this? Because Jesus was God manifest in the flesh. (I Timothy 3:16; Isaiah 9:6; Isaiah 42:13) "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) In Him dwelleth all the fullness of the Godhead. (Colossians 2:9; Colossians 1:17) After His love and kindness, God became the perfect sacrifice on the cross -- God became our Saviour. (Titus 3:4-7)

In Romans, Paul, a servant of Jesus Christ states: " ... who are Israelites; to whom pertaineth 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." (Romans 9:4)

This is why throughout His Word, God reveals Himself in the face of Jesus Christ. Indeed, Jesus is the visible image of the unseen God, who now dwells in us. "And will be a Father unto you and ye shall be My sons and daughters," saith the Lord Almighty." (II Corinthians 6:16-18; Romans 8:14; II Samuel 7:14; Isaiah 52:11; I Corinthians 3:16)

 In this day and age, God has chosen to speak to our hearts through the Son -- Himself robed in sin prone flesh and yet without sin -- but His identity hid until the ultimate price had been paid on that cross. This is why Jesus would not allow those that He fed to make Him King, because His time had not yet come. The Law and old covenant ordinances had to be fulfilled in order for the new testament to begin, wherein JESUS is the ONLY NAME whereby we must be saved. (Acts 4:12; Philippians 2:9)

His Name highly exalted and above every name. This is why Peter standing with the apostles on the day of Pentecost could say "this SAME JESUS whom ye have crucified is BOTH LORD AND CHRIST" for He was both Lord and Christ. God was both the Father and the Son. His Spirit -- the Spirit of Jesus which is the testimony of the prophets dwells within those who proclaim Jesus as their Lord and Saviour by faith.

And now, after He [Jesus] was taken up, He [Jesus] THROUGH THE HOLY GHOST gave/gives commandments unto those whom He had/has chosen (Acts 1:2-3) This is why Jesus said, "I will never leave you nor forsake you!" [Note that in order for the Holy Ghost to come, Jesus definitely had to go, and told His disciples the same -- re: John 16:7 -- Jesus having said these things while He was yet with them.]

This is why we (like the apostles) preach in the Name of the Lord Jesus Christ. For as the scriptures reveal, He is Alpha and Omega, the first and the last, the beginning and the ending, King of kings and Lord of lords. (Revelation 1:8,11) 

The Son of man is the Lord of glory.

"And this is His commandment: That we should believe on the Name of His Son Jesus Christ and love one another, as He gave us commandment. And He that keeps His commandments dwells in Him and He in Him. And hereby we know that He abides in us, by the Spirit which He hath given us." (I John 3:23-24; Matthew 22:36-40; John 14:21-25)

The Holy Ghost renewed -- all things being brought to our remembrance. (Titus 3:4-7; John 14:26; John 15:26) His Name -- JESUS -- forever to be praised, because He is the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus. (Philippians 3:14) 

Stand in the offering plate.

Godly Sorrow Worketh Repentance to Salvation To Be Repented Of, But the Sorrow of the World Worketh Death - Part 1655

Continuing form the last post, we see Jesus turn unto His disciples, and say privately to them, "Blessed are the eyes which see the things that ye see, for I tell you, that many prophets and kings have desired to see those things which ye see, and have not seen [them] and to hear those things which ye hear, and have not heard [them]." (Luke 10:23-24)

At this point, the disciples had been asking Jesus, "Why speakest Thou unto them in parables?" This is certainly a question worthy of further query, given that the multitudes that followed Jesus oft asked the same question. What did Jesus say?

"Because it is given unto you to know the mysteries of the kingdom but to them it is not given. For whosoever hath, to him shall be given, and he shall have more abundance: but whosoever hath not, from him shall be taketh away even that he hath. Therefore speak I to them in parables: because they seeing, see not: and hearing, hear not, neither do they understand.

And in them is fulfilled the prophecy of Esaias, which saith, "By hearing ye shall hear, and shall not understand; and seeing ye shall see, and shall not perceive; for this people's heart is waxed gross, and [their] ears are dull of hearing, and eyes they have closed; lest at any time they should see with [their] eyes, and hear with [their] ears, and should with [their] heart, and should be converted, and I should heal them. But blessed [are] your eyes, for they see: and your ears, for they hear.

For verily I say unto you -- that many prophets and righteous [men] have desired to see [those things] which ye see, and have not seen [them]; and to hear [those things] which ye hear, and have not heard [them]." (Matthew 13:10-17)

Similar accounts of Jesus speaking about His use of parables in teaching are offered elsewhere in the gospels. In Mark, for example, when Jesus was alone, they that were about Him with the twelve asked of Him the parable.

And Jesus said unto them, "Unto you it is given to know the mystery of the kingdom of God; but unto them that are without, all [these] things are done in parables: that seeing they may see, and not perceive; and hearing they may hear, and not understand; lest at any time they should be converted, and [their] sins should be forgiven them." And He said unto them specifically, "Know ye not this parable? and how then will ye know all parables?" (Mark 4:10-13)

And Luke as well, when Jesus said privately, "Blessed [are] the eyes which see the things that ye see: for I tell you, that many prophets and kings have desired to see those things which ye see, and have not seen [them]; and to hear those things which ye hear, and have not heard [them]." (Luke 10:23-24)

Again, when the disciples asked Jesus saying, "What might this parable be?" Jesus said, "Unto you it is given to know the mysteries of the kingdom of God but to others in parables; that seeing they might not see, and understand they might not understand." (Luke 8:9-10)

The good news for us who believe in Jesus by faith is that the apostles were not the only ones privy to the mysteries of the kingdom of God, but also the Gentiles will hear, and understand the mystery that was hid in the bosom of the Father from the very beginning -- His plan of salvation -- His righteousness revealed.

As Paul said, "Be it known therefore unto you, that the salvation of God is set unto the Gentiles ..." (Acts 28:28; Isaiah 42:6; Isaiah 49:6)

Why is this? So that through their [the Israelites] fall, salvation is come unto the Gentiles, for to provoke them to jealousy." (Romans 11:11)

Thus, when they had appointed Paul a day, there came many to him into his lodging; "to whom he expounded and testified the kingdom of God, persuading them concerning Jesus, both out of the law of Moses and out of the prophets, from morning till evening. And some believed the things which were spoken, and some believed not." (Acts 28:23-24)

Please note that for those who agreed not among themselves (and certainly there are those within today's religious culture), who later departed because they were not of the faith, Paul had spoken one word. That is:

"Well spake the Holy Ghost by Esaias the prophet unto our fathers, saying, "Go unto this people, and say, "Hearing ye shall hear, and shall not understand; and seeing ye shall see, and not perceive: for the heart of this people is waxed gross, and their eyes are dull of hearing, and their eyes have they closed; lest they should see with [their] eyes, and hear with [their] ears, and understand with [their] heart, and should be converted, and I should heal them." (Acts 28:25-31; Isaiah 6:9-10; Matthew 13:14-15; Romans 11:8)

But we are not of these because, as the scripture so clearly dictates, nothing will be hid from those who seek our Lord God and Saviour Jesus the Christ with all their hearts, souls, minds, and strength. Those who hear and understand the first commandment both in the old and the new -- "Hear, O Israel, the Lord thy God is ONE LORD!" (Mark 12:29-31; Deuteronomy 6:4; I Timothy 3:16)

This is why we are instructed to "bring forth the blind people that have eyes and the deaf that have ears. Let all the nations be gathered together, and let the people be assembled: who among them can declare this, and show us former things? Let them bring forth their witnesses, that they may be justified: or let them hear, and say, "It is truth." (Isiah 43:8-9)

What truth?

That we indeed -- "Ye are My witnesses," saith the Lord, "and My servant whom I have chosen: that ye may know and believe Me, and understand that I AM HE: before Me there was no God formed, neither shall there be after Me. I, even I AM the Lord; and beside Me, there is no Saviour. I have declared, and have saved, and I have showed, when there was no strange god among you; "therefore, ye are My witnesses, saith the Lord, that I AM GOD!" (Isaiah 43:10-15)

And He (in this current dispensation of grace wherein salvation was so wonderfully sent to the Gentiles) He has done a new thing. In this day and age, in which we live, "Now it shall spring forth."

But as the Lord God also asks, "Shall ye know it?" Will we take hold of the greatest love story ever shared, wherein our Creator willingly prepared for Himself a body, so that He could offer a perfect sacrifice, so that we -- whilst we were still His enemies, could know and understand that this same Jesus whom we/ye have crucified is "both Lord and Christ." (Acts 2:36)

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

Therefore, for the people that He has formed for Himself, "every one that is called by My Name, I have created him for My glory, I have formed him, yea, I have made him." (Isaiah 43:7; James 2:7; Isaiah 43:21; Psalm 102:18; Jeremiah 13:11)

"Therefore, if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new, and all things are of God who hath reconciled us to Himself by Jesus Christ and hath given us the ministry of reconciliation -- to wit, that God was in Christ, reconciling the world to Himself ..." (II Corinthians 5:17-21)

His love and mercy for you and I, who by the Word of truth, by the power of God, became the ultimate sacrifice on a cross -- "made to be sin for us, who knew no sin; that we might be made the righteousness of God in Him." (II Corinthians 5:21)

Take hold of His love for you today. Ask the Lord Jesus to become the one and only King in your life and heart today, and understand His mysteries that were in His bosom from the beginning of the world. Stand in the offering plate.

"This Is the Heritage Of the Servants of the Lord, Their Righteousness Is Of Me," Saith the Lord - Part 1654

"Be it known therefore, unto you, that the salvation of God is sent unto the Gentiles, and that they will hear it." (Acts 28:28)

In order to understand the critical importance of Jesus Christ (in terms of His abundant love and mercy, and our salvation) we need to recognize that the Gentiles remained outside of the old covenant ordinances and law. The Israelites having been the Lord God's chosen in the old testament (before the cross). This is not to suggest that there were no exceptions but rather to show how the Lord's plan of salvation, which was in the bosom of the Father from the very beginning, was extended by design to those of us who were not Israelites.

Jesus said, "And other sheep I have, which are not of this fold: them also I must bring, and they shall hear My voice; and there shall be one fold, [and] one shepherd." (John 10:16)

"So then [it is] not of him that wills, nor of him that runs, but of God that shows mercy .... shall the thing formed say to him that formed [it], "Why hast thou made me thus?" Hath not the potter power over the clay, of the same lump to make one vessel unto honour, and another unto dishonour? What if God, willing to shew [His] wrath, and to make His power known endured with much long suffering, the vessels of wrath fitted to destruction, and that He might make known the riches of His glory on the vessels of mercy, which He had afore prepared unto glory, even us, whom He hath called, not of the Jews only, but also of the Gentiles?" (Romans 9:16-24)

In other words, we have been called according to His purpose. By deliberate design, the Lord God Himself prepared a plan of salvation that could only hinge on His love for His creation. That is, God robed Himself in flesh, having prepared for Himself a body, and in so doing, He became the perfect sacrifice on a cross for us, so that we might experience His love and mercy in our hearts. 

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

God manifest in the flesh. (I Timothy 3:16) The Lord Himself having come into this world as a mighty man. (Isaiah 42:13; Isaiah 9:6) 

This is why some apostles in the early church grieved with great heaviness and continual sorrow for the Israelites, "to whom pertain 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 [came] who is over all, God blessed for ever, amen." (Romans 9:4-6)

But I digress. So, again, for further clarity -- "[what] if God, willing to shew [His] wrath, and to make His power known, endured with much long suffering the vessels of wrath fitted to destruction: and that He might make known the riches of His glory on the vessels of mercy, which He had afore prepared unto glory, even us, whom He hath called, not of the Jews only, but also of the Gentiles?

As He saith also in Osee, "I will call them My people, which were not My people; and her beloved, which was not beloved. And it shall come to pass, [that] in the place where it was said unto them, "Ye [are] not My people; there shall they be called the children of the living God." Esaias also crieth concerning Israel, "Though the number of the children of Israel be as the sand of the sea, a remnant shall be saved: for He will finish the work, and cut [it] short in righteousness: because a short work will the Lord make upon the earth."

And as Esaias said before, "Except the Lord of Sabaoth had left us a seed, we had been as Sodoma, and been made like unto Gomorrha. What shall we say then? That the Gentiles, which followed not after righteousness, have attained to righteousness, even the righteousness which is of faith." (Romans 9:22-30)

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

The scripture foreseeing that God would justify the heathen through faith. (Galatians 3:8) The scripture having 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 faith is come, we are no longer under a schoolmaster -- for ye are all the children of God by faith in Christ Jesus. (Galatians 3:15-29)

"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." (Galatians 3:13) 

In other words, the Lord Himself, God in Christ paid the ultimate price for our transgressions. He shed His precious blood on an old rugged cross for His beloved. And, as a consequence of believing in Jesus by faith, we are no longer children in bondage, under the elements of the world. Because "when the fullness of the time was come, God sent forth His Son, made of a woman, made under the law, that we might receive the adoption of sons. And because ye are sons, God hath sent forth the Spirit of His Son into your hearts, crying, Abba, Father." (Galatians 4:1-6)

The love of God being shed abroad in our hearts by the Holy Ghost which is given unto us, when we repent, and are water baptized in the precious Name of our Lord Jesus Christ. (Acts 2:36-38)

All this foretold in scriptures, foretold through the prophets, so that we would not be caught unaware of the greatest love story ever told to mankind.

"And in that day there shall be a root of Jesse, which shall stand for an ensign of the people; to it shall the Gentiles seek: and his rest shall be glorious." (Isaiah 11:10)

"Behold My servant, whom I uphold; Mine elect, in whom My soul delights; I have put My Spirit upon Him: He shall bring forth judgment to the Gentiles." (Isaiah 42:1)

"I the LORD have called Thee in righteousness, and will hold Thine hand, and will keep Thee, and give Thee for a covenant of the people, for a light of the Gentiles ... " (Isaiah 42:6)

And He said, "It is a light thing that thou shouldest be My servant to raise up the tribes of Jacob, and to restore the preserved of Israel: I will also give Thee for a light to the Gentiles, that Thou mayest be My salvation unto the end of the earth." (Isaiah 49:6)

Thus saith the Lord GOD, "Behold, I will lift up Mine hand to the Gentiles, and set up My standard to the people: and they shall bring thy sons in their arms, and thy daughters shall be carried upon their shoulders." (Isaiah 49:22)

" ... and thy seed shall inherit the Gentiles, and make the desolate cities to be inhabited." (Isaiah 54:3)

"And the Gentiles shall come to Thy light, and kings to the brightness of Thy rising." (Isaiah 60:3)

"Then thou shalt see, and flow together, and thine heart shall fear, and be enlarged; because the abundance of the sea shall be converted unto Thee, the forces of the Gentiles shall come unto Thee." (Isaiah 60:5)

"Thou shalt also suck the milk of the Gentiles, and shalt suck the breast of kings: and thou shalt know that I the LORD am thy Saviour and thy Redeemer, the mighty One of Jacob." (Isaiah 60:16)

"And their seed shall be known among the Gentiles, and their offspring among the people: all that see them shall acknowledge them, that they are the seed which the LORD hath blessed." (Isaiah 61:9)

"And the Gentiles shall see Thy righteousness, and all kings Thy glory: and Thou shalt be called by a new Name, which the mouth of the LORD shall name." (Isaiah 62:2)

For thus saith the LORD, "Behold, I will extend peace to her like a river, and the glory of the Gentiles like a flowing stream: then shall ye suck, ye shall be borne upon her sides, and be dandled upon her knees." (Isaiah 66:12)

"And I will set a sign among them, and I will send those that escape of them unto the nations, to Tarshish, Pul, and Lud, that draw the bow, to Tubal, and Javan, to the isles afar off, that have not heard My fame, neither have seen My glory; and they shall declare My glory among the Gentiles." (Isaiah 66:19)

Jesus -- a witness to the people!

This is why we are to seek the Lord while He may be found, and call ye upon Him while He is near because He, in His willingness and mercy hast made an everlasting covenant with you, even the sure mercies of David.

Stand in the offering plate.

God's Will Is To Have All Men Saved And To Come To The Knowledge Of The Truth - Part 1653

Jesus said, "I have manifested Thy Name unto the men which Thou gavest Me out of the world ... and they have kept Thy Word!" (John 17:6)

Throughout the old covenant, God used specific names, depending on the time and circumstance, so it should not come as a surprise that God would also use a specific Name when He speaks to us in this new dispensation of grace. Indeed, in Hebrews 1, we are taught that in this current time in which we live, God would not speak through prophets (as He had in times of old) but instead through [His] Son. (Hebrews 1:1-12)

What was the Name that the Son -- God manifest in the flesh -- delivered to all the world? (I Timothy 3:16) The precious Name of JESUS. The Name ABOVE every other Name, and the ONLY Name whereby we must be saved. (Philippians 2:9; Acts 4:12)

No longer do the names of God in the old covenant apply in this current dispensation of grace because we have been given a NEW NAME, whereby we must be saved.

"Wherefore God also hath highly exalted Him, and given Him a Name which is above every other Name." (Philippians 2:9)

"And she shall bring forth a son, and thou shalt call His Name JESUS: for He shall save His people from their sins." (Matthew 1:21)

"Behold, a virgin shall be with child, and shall bring forth a son, and they shall call His Name Emmanuel, which being interpreted is, God with us." (Matthew 1:23)

And knew her not till she had brought forth her firstborn son: and he called His Name Jesus." (Matthew 1:25)

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

"And in His Name shall the Gentiles trust." (Matthew 12:21)

"And whoso shall receive one such little child in My Name receives Me." (Matthew 18:5)

"For where two or three are gathered together in My Name, there am I in the midst of them." (Matthew 18:20)

Referring to Jerusalem, Jesus said, "For I say unto you, Ye shall not see Me henceforth, till ye shall say, "Blessed is He that cometh in the Name of the Lord." (Matthew 23:39; Psalm 118:26)

Nevertheless, Mary the mother of Elizabeth's Lord knew and her soul did magnify the Lord. (Luke 1:41-46)

"My soul doth magnify the Lord, and my spirit hath rejoiced in God my Saviour, for He hath regarded the low estate of His handmaiden, for, behold, from henceforth all generations shall call me blessed. For He that is mighty hath done to me great things, and HOLY IS HIS NAME. And His mercy is on them that fear Him from generation to generation. He hath showed strength with His arm; He hath scattered the proud in the imagination of their hearts. He hath put down the mighty from [their] seats and exalted them of low degree. Ha hath filled the hungry with good things: and the rich He hath sent empty away. He hath holpen His servant Israel, in remembrance of [His] mercy. As He spake to our fathers, to Abraham, and to His seed for ever." (Luke 1:46-55)

This is why Jesus warned us of those who would not use the Name of Jesus in their presentation of the gospel --  "For many shall come in My Name, saying, I am Christ; and shall deceive many ... then shall they deliver you up to be afflicted, and shall kill you: and ye shall be hated of all nations for My Name's sake." (Matthew 24:5-9; Matthew 10:17; Haggai 2:22; Revelation 6:5-6; John 5:43; Matthew 24:11)

Just as the apostles and the early church experienced firsthand, it was the Name of Jesus which caused the offence, and this worldly mindset has not changed today. 

This same Name, as Jesus said, that will be cause to deliver us up to the councils, and the same Name for which they will scourge us in the synagogues. "And ye shall be brought before governors and kings for My Name's sake, for a testimony against them and the Gentiles. But when they deliver you up, take no thought how or what ye shall speak; for it shall be given you in that same hour what ye shall speak ... for it is not ye that speak, but the Spirit of your Father which speaks in you ..." (Matthew 10:17-21)

Moreover, Jesus told us that we shall be hated of all "for My Name's sake" but he that endures to the end shall be saved. (Matthew 10:22; Luke 21:17; Mark 13:13)

But we know in whom we serve -- "By whom we have received grace and apostleship, for obedience to the faith among all nations, for His Name ..." (Romans 1:5)

And, as a consequence, we are to let this same mind be in us; "which was also in Christ Jesus; who, being in the form of God, thought it not robbery to be equal with God; but made Himself of no reputation, and took upon Him the form of a servant, and was made in the likeness of men; and being found in fashion as a man, He humbled Himself, and became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross. Wherefore God also hath highly exalted Him, and given Him a Name which is above every name -- that at the Name of Jesus, every knee should bow of [things] in heaven, and [things] in earth, and [things] under the earth and [that] every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of the Father." (Philippians 2:5-11)

More to come on the Name of Jesus. In the interim, stand in the offering plate with our Lord God and Saviour Jesus the Christ, magnifying His precious Name.

Having Made Known Unto Us The Mystery of His Will, According To His Good Pleasure -- Part 1652

“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 ..." (Ephesians 1:9-10)

The Lord has ensured that there is nothing hid from those who truthfully seek Him. Indeed, it is the Lord's desire that we all would come to the knowledge of the truth. (I Timothy 2:4) It is for this reason that we should study His Word "to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that need not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the Word of truth.” (II Timothy 2:15)

Too often, however, the worldly confusion that abounds emanates from a modern day culture that attempts to muddy the line between the old covenant and the new testament, and thus, similarly, mixing the old wine [the law and ordinances] with the new wine [by grace are ye saved through faith and that not of yourselves]. Thus, part of our understanding of the good news gospel of the Lord Jesus Christ and His free gift of salvation should begin with the current dispensation of grace in which we live -- knowing that this is the day that the Lord hath made! In so doing, we recognize that as Gentiles, we are no longer under the law, with the exception of the following two commandments confirmed by Jesus [and later, James' Holy Ghost led instruction to the Gentiles.

From Jesus' conversation with the scribe, "The first of all the commandments is, Hear, O Israel; The Lord our God is one Lord: and thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind, and with all thy strength: this is the first commandment. And the second is like, namely this, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself. There is none other commandment greater than these." (Mark 12:29-31)

And James, in agreement with Paul and the other apostles: "But that we write unto them, that they abstain from pollutions of idols, and from fornication, and from things strangled, and from blood.” (Acts 15:20)

Admittedly, it is a rare occasion that we hear this latter instruction taught within our church congregations. Part of the issue comes from not rightly dividing the dispensations, and as a consequence, we take instruction meant specifically for Israel of old as our own. In that sense, it is no wonder we cannot achieve the "one accord" which was clearly evident on the day of Pentecost. (Acts 2:1-47) But there also appears to be a lack of desire for the spiritual meat that would wean us from the milk once and for all, grounding us in His Word and upon the Rock which is Christ. 

Looking specifically to Hebrews, wherein the manifold wisdom of God our Saviour is revealed in the context of the dispensations, the following scripture in and of itself may seem harsh:

"For when for the time ye ought to be teachers, ye have need that one teach you again which be the first principles of the oracles of God; and are become such as have need of milk, and not of strong meat. For every one that useth milk is unskillful in the Word of righteousness: for he is a babe. But strong meat belongeth to them that are of full age, even those who by reason of use have their senses exercised to discern both good and evil." (Hebrews 5:12-14 ; Hebrews 6:1-2)

But in the context of this chapter as a whole (and in studying comparable scripture) we begin to understand the totality of what the Lord is saying herein to our hearts. This is why it is critical that we first understand that we are not one and the same with the Israel of the old covenant, wherein the Lord said to them (before He came forth as a mighty man) that they would never enter His rest. (Isaiah 42:13; Isaiah 9:6; Matthew 1:21-23; Titus 3:4-7; I Timothy 3:16) 

You see, God is not the author of confusion. This is why we are encouraged to read line upon line, precept upon precept, and study His Word for clarity and understanding. For example, if we return to Hebrews 5 (referenced in part above), we learn that the meat described therein includes knowing the mystery of His will, according to His good pleasure which He hath purposed in Himself. We then see that these same scriptures from Hebrews 5 are not contradictory but rather, enhance and expand upon the same message offered in Ephesians 1:9-10. That is:

"For every high priest taken from among men is ordained for men in things pertaining to God, that he may offer both gifts and sacrifices for sins: who can have compassion on the ignorant, and on them that are out of the way; for that, He Himself also is compassed with infirmity. And by reason hereof He ought, as for the people, so also for Himself, to offer for sins. And no man taketh this honour unto himself, but he that is called of God, as was Aaron. So also Christ glorified not Himself to be made an high priest; but He that said unto Him, "Thou art My Son, to day have I begotten thee." 

As He saith also in another place, "Thou art a priest for ever after the order of Melchisedec, who in the days of His flesh, when He had offered up prayers and supplications with strong crying and tears unto Him that was able to save Him from death, and was heard in that He feared; "Though He were a Son, yet learned He obedience by the things which He suffered; and being made perfect, He became the Author of eternal salvation unto all them that obey Him; called of God an high priest after the order of Melchisedec.

Of whom we have many things to say, and hard to be uttered, seeing ye are dull of hearing. For when for the time ye ought to be teachers, ye have need that one teach you again which be the first principles of the oracles of God; and are become such as have need of milk, and not of strong meat. For every one that useth milk is unskillful in the Word of righteousness: for he is a babe. But strong meat belongeth to them that are of full age, even those who by reason of use have their senses exercised to discern both good and evil." (Hebrews 5:1-14)

Understandably, reading the entire book of Hebrews would bring a broader and more defined knowledge but for the sake of space, let this chapter suffice, so that we can return to apostle Paul in this conversation. For those who may not be aware, Saul, who later became apostle Paul is the messenger appointed by the Lord Jesus to preach specifically to the Gentiles (those who are traditionally considered non-Jews). 

This is confirmed in Romans 11:13 -- "For I speak to you Gentiles, inasmuch as I am the apostle of the Gentiles, I magnify mine office;" Romans 15:16 -- "That I should be the minister of Jesus Christ to the Gentiles, ministering the gospel of God, that the offering up of the Gentiles might be acceptable, being sanctified by the Holy Ghost;" and also II Timothy 1:11 -- "Whereunto I am appointed a preacher, and an apostle, and a teacher of the Gentiles."

So, when we observe a similar contention (re: the law and grace) occurring between those who believe in the circumcision after the manner of Moses, and those who believe in Jesus (in His now glorified state -- renewed in the Holy Ghost re: Acts 1:2-3) as King of kings and Lord of lords, Alpha and Omega, the first and the last, the beginning and the ending, we come to the knowledge that this issue has been settled once and for all. (Revelation 1:8,11) We now have the knowledge and wisdom to become grounded in the teachings specifically for the Gentiles. Herein the insights from Acts 15:

"And certain men which came down from Judaea taught the brethren, and said, "Except ye be circumcised after the manner of Moses, ye cannot be saved." When therefore Paul and Barnabas had no small dissension and disputation with them, they determined that Paul and Barnabas, and certain other of them, should go up to Jerusalem unto the apostles and elders about this question. And being brought on their way by the church, they passed through Phenice and Samaria, declaring the conversion of the Gentiles: and they caused great joy unto all the brethren. And when they were come to Jerusalem, they were received of the church, and of the apostles and elders, and they declared all things that God had done with them.

But there rose up certain of the sect of the Pharisees which believed, saying, "That it was needful to circumcise them, and to command them to keep the law of Moses."

And the apostles and elders came together for to consider of this matter. And when there had been much disputing, Peter rose up, and said unto them:

"Men and brethren, ye know how that a good while ago God made choice among us, that the Gentiles by my mouth should hear the Word of the gospel, and believe. And God, which knoweth the hearts, bare them witness, giving them the Holy Ghost, even as He did unto us; and put no difference between us and them, purifying their hearts by faith. Now therefore why tempt ye God, to put a yoke upon the neck of the disciples, which neither our fathers nor we were able to bear? But we believe that through the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ we shall be saved, even as they."

Then all the multitude kept silence, and gave audience to Barnabas and Paul, declaring what miracles and wonders God had wrought among the Gentiles by them. And after they had held their peace, James answered, saying, "Men and brethren, hearken unto me: Simeon hath declared how God at the first did visit the Gentiles, to take out of them a people for His Name -- and to this agree the words of the prophets; as it is written, "After this I will return, and will build again the tabernacle of David, which is fallen down; and I will build again the ruins thereof, and I will set it up: that the residue of men might seek after the Lord, and all the Gentiles, upon whom My Name is called," saith the Lord, who doeth all these things, known unto God are all His works from the beginning of the world."

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

Then pleased it the apostles and elders with the whole church, to send chosen men of their own company to Antioch with Paul and Barnabas; namely, Judas surnamed Barsabas and Silas, chief men among the brethren: and they wrote letters by them after this manner; The apostles and elders and brethren send greeting unto the brethren which are of the Gentiles in Antioch and Syria and Cilicia.

Forasmuch as we have heard, that certain which went out from us have troubled you with words, subverting your souls, saying, "Ye must be circumcised, and keep the law: to whom we gave no such commandment. It seemed good unto us, being assembled with one accord, to send chosen men unto you with our beloved Barnabas and Paul -- Men that have hazarded their lives for the Name of our Lord Jesus Christ. We have sent therefore Judas and Silas, who shall also tell you the same things by mouth. For it seemed good to the Holy Ghost, and to us, to lay upon you no greater burden than these necessary things; that ye abstain from meats offered to idols, and from blood, and from things strangled, and from fornication: from which if ye keep yourselves, ye shall do well. Fare ye well."

So when they were dismissed, they came to Antioch: and when they had gathered the multitude together, they delivered the epistle: which when they had read, they rejoiced for the consolation. And Judas and Silas, being prophets also themselves, exhorted the brethren with many words, and confirmed them. And after they had tarried there a space, they were let go in peace from the brethren unto the apostles. Notwithstanding it pleased Silas to abide there still. Paul also and Barnabas continued in Antioch, teaching and preaching the Word of the Lord, with many others also." (Acts 15:1-35)

And why is the Word important? "So that [the Lord] 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 3:16-19)

But also so that "the servant of the Lord must not strive; but be gentle unto all men, apt to teach, patient, in meekness instructing those that oppose themselves; if God peradventure will give them repentance to the acknowledging of the truth; and that they may recover themselves out of the snare of the devil, who are taken captive by him at his will.” (II Timothy 2:24-26)

Lots here to digest and feed upon. In moving forward, remain faithful to our Lord God and Saviour Jesus the Christ, who paid the ultimate price for our salvation, and He did so because of His abundant love and mercy for His people. Stand in the offering plate.

The Doctrine of Christ Sadly Removed From Rewritten Bibles - Part 1651

" ... but by every Word of God ..."

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

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

"How much more shall the blood of Christ -- who THROUGH the eternal Spirit offered Himself without spot to God purge your conscience from dead works to serve the living God? And for this cause, He is the mediator of the new testament, that by means of death, for the redemption of the transgressions [that were] under the first testament, they which are called might receive the promise of eternal inheritance ... for where a testament [is], there must also of necessity be the death of the testator. For a testament [is] of force after men are dead: otherwise, it is of no strength at all while the testator lives. Whereupon neither the first [testament] was dedicated without blood. For when Moses had spoken every precept to all the people according to the law ..." (Hebrews 9:14-19; Acts 1:2-3, 8)

The true disciple of Jesus Christ will seek to understand the greatest love story ever told, and will not shrink back in the face of a modern day religious culture intent on deceiving the masses with their false trinity teaching. Still, how dare those who proclaim to understand the Word of the Lord delete any and all references to the "doctrine of Christ" in their rewritten books, and instead put forward a false man-made, religious teaching called the trinity, wherein God is reduced to three persons.

The first commandment declares God as One Lord. (Deuteronomy 6:4; Mark 12:29-31) The very beginning of our world, and His handiwork (even to this day) declares -- In the beginning, God. (Genesis 1:1) The Spirit of the Lord moved upon the face of the waters. (Genesis 1:2)

God is Spirit. God is holy. And the scriptures state God Himself became our Saviour. That He was in the world and the world was made by Him and yet the world knew Him not. That He came unto His own and His own received Him not? (I Timothy 3:16; John 1:10-11; Titus 3:4-7; Deuteronomy 6:4; Mark 12:29-31; Isaiah 9:6; Isaiah 42:13; Titus 3:4-7)

The Lord Himself came forth as a mighty man. (Isaiah 42:13) He is our Saviour and beside Him there is none else.

And yet, the obvious is being denied, and to support their false position, the scriptures who point to the falseness repeatedly omitted in the revised books they present as Bibles. Oh, how dark our world has become when those who profess to believe willingly remove the absolute knowledge of the gospel from the Word of the Lord in scripture! Woe to them that are responsible for willfully making people ignorant of His truth. The Word of God being corrupted by those who are void of all knowledge and understanding of godliness. (I Timothy 3:16)

It is no wonder Jesus went into the temple of God and cast out all them that sold and bought in the temple, and overthrew the tables of the money changers and the seats of them that sold doves, and said unto them, "It is written, My house shall be called the house of prayer, but ye have made it a den of thieves."

"And Jesus went into the temple of God, and cast out all them that sold and bought in the temple, and overthrew the tables of the moneychangers, and the seats of them that sold doves, and said unto them, It is written, My house shall be called the house of prayer; but ye have made it a den of thieves." (Matthew 21:12-13 KJV)

"And Jesus went into the Temple of God, and cast out all them that sold and bought in the Temple, and overthrew the tables of the moneychangers, and the seats of them that sold doves, and said to them, It is written, My house shall be called the house of prayer: but ye have made it a den of thieves." (Matthew 21:12-13 Geneva 1599)
In the newer rewritten versions of the scriptures, such as the NIV; New Living Translation; English Standard; Berean; New American Standard, New American Standard, and Weymouth, for example, note that the words "of God" in this particular scripture Matthew 21:12 is omitted and replaced by temple courts/temple complex, etc.

Why? Because Jesus, who was God manifest in the flesh, came into His own temple and said, "My house shall be called the house of prayer." Therein, at that  time, it was the temple of God and as we know from the doctrine of Christ, the same God of the temple was standing therein.

Yes, God visited His people. (Luke 1:67-79) After His love and kindness, God became our Saviour. (Titus 3:4-7)

This is why the Holy Ghost always points to Jesus -- because He is the Lord of glory. Jesus -- He is the King of kings and Lord of lords, Alpha and Omega, the first and the last, the beginning and the ending. (Revelation 1:8, 11) His Name given to us as the ONLY NAME whereby we must be saved in this current dispensation of grace. (Acts 4:12; Philippians 2:9)

"To wit, that God was in Christ, reconciling the world unto Himself, not imputing their trespasses unto them; and hath committed unto us the Word of reconciliation. Now then we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God did beseech you by us: we pray you in Christ's stead, be ye reconciled to God. For He hath made Him to be sin for us, who knew no sin; that we might be made the righteousness of God in Him." (II Corinthians 5:19-21)

"But now the righteousness of God without the law is manifested, being witnessed by the law and the prophets; even the righteousness of God which is by faith of Jesus Christ unto all and upon all them that believe: for there is no difference -- 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 3:21-26)

"To give knowledge of salvation unto His people by the remission of their sins, through the tender mercy of our God; whereby the day spring from on high hath visited us, to give light to them that sit in darkness and in the shadow of death, to guide our feet into the way of peace." (Luke 1:77-79)

Indeed, it is time to throw out the new rewritten versions that attempt to lead us astray from His truth, wherein entire scriptures are omitted from His Word without any justification. We need to become as the new disciples in the early church -- those that believed, came and confessed and shewed their deeds, many of them also which used curious arts brought their books together and burned them before all [men]; and they counted the price of them and found it fifty thousand [pieces] of silver -- so mightily grew the Word of God and prevailed." (Acts 19:18-20)

The curious arts of this day include any teaching that adds or takes away from the scriptures, which is why we are warned of wolves in sheep's clothing, who would preach "another" gospel than the gospel you have been taught, and heard, and understand.

All this so that it might be fulfilled which was spoken by Esaias [Isaiah] the prophet, saying, "Himself took our infirmities, and bare our sicknesses." (Matthew 8:17)

God Himself robed in sin prone flesh (and yet without sin) so that we could find redemption and sanctification through His perfect sacrifice on the cross. And to this day, He is still inviting us to come into His fold, and to the most elaborate wedding feast known to man. Heed His call today. Accept His invitation that is embraced in love and mercy. And yes ...

"Repent ye, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand." (Matthew 3:2; Acts 2:36-38) 

Stand in the offering plate.

[* As an aside, we are now the temple of the Lord, and collectively together the body of Christ -- Jesus being the Head of the Church)

The Second Man Is The Lord From Heaven - Part 1650

"Giving thanks unto the Father, which hath made us meet to be partakers of the inheritance of the saints in light: who hath delivered us from the power of darkness, and hath translated [us] into the kingdom of His dear Son in whom we have redemption through His blood, [even] the forgiveness of sins -- who is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn of every creature: for by Him were all things created, that are in heaven, and that are in earth, visible and invisible, whether [they be] thrones, or dominions, or principalities, or powers: all things were created by Him and for Him, and He is before all things, and by Him all things consist -- and He is the Head of the body, the church: who is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead; that in all [things] He might have the preeminence.

For it pleased [the Father] that in Him should all fullness dwell; and, having made peace through the blood of His cross, by Him to reconcile all things unto Himself, by Him [I say] whether [they be] things in earth, or things in heaven. And you, that were sometime alienated and enemies [in your] mind by wicked works, yet now hath He reconciled in the body of His flesh through death, to present you holy and unblameable and unreproveable in His sight -- if ye continue in the faith, grounded and settled, and be not moved away from the hope of the gospel, which ye have heard, and which was preached to every creature which is under heaven ..." (Colossians 1:12-23)

He hath reconciled in the body of His flesh through death so that we can be presented holy and unblameable and unreproveable in His sight. The greatest love story ever told to mankind so that our life can be hid with Christ in God, rooted and built up in Him and stablished in the faith, as ye have been taught, abounded therein with thanksgiving. (Colossians 2:7; 3:3)

Because we have been risen with Christ as a consequence of His free gift of salvation, we need to also pray that the Lord of the harvest would send forth labourers into His harvest fields. To go out into the highways, and byways, and the hedges for those whose souls are starving.  Why? Because the harvest truly is plenteous but the labourers are few.

Indeed, there are multitudes of people who need to hear the good news gospel of Jesus.  Multitudes in the valley of decision. The question is this. How can they hear the gospel of Jesus without a preacher or preach this gospel except they be sent? This is why the scriptures state, "How beautiful are the feet of them who preach the gospel of peace."

“We have heard the Macedonian call today -- send the light, send the light, there are souls to rescue, there are souls to save, send the light, send the light, the blessed gospel light and let it shine from shore, and let the glorious beam light the world for evermore."

Too many people need to understand the saving knowledge of our great God and only Saviour Jesus, and more now than ever -- in these last days -- the time is upon us wherein we need to preach the Bread of Life -- Jesus -- to the many who are lost.

It is within this context that we must pray and ask God to raise up and send labourers into His harvest field. Our world is full of people who unfortunately have never heard the glad tiding of great joy. Say these words if you are a believer -- ‘Lord here I am, send me."

Put in the sickle and reap and PREACH THE WORD that the second man is the Lord from Heaven. And in so doing, may the fire of the gospel light the heather again. Stand in the offering plate.

Jesus Said, "Ye Call Me Master and Lord, and Ye Say Well For So I AM ...." - Part 1649

"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 3:17-19)

Have you ever wondered how we can be filled with the fullness of God in our hearts? That His Spirit -- the Spirit of Christ -- may dwell in our hearts forever more -- leading and guiding us into all truth? The same Spirit of the Lord which moved upon the face of the waters in the very beginning. (Genesis 1:1-2) The same Rock the Israelites followed and drank from when they passed through the Red Sea -- the spiritual Rock being Christ. (I Corinthians 10:1-4) The same Spirit of prophecy which is the testimony of Jesus. (Revelation 19:10) The same Spirit that one receives when we repent and are water baptized in the Name of the Lord Jesus Christ -- the Holy Ghost which leads and guides us into all truth. (Acts 2:36-47) The Comforter who never leaves or forsakes us.

The scriptures tell us this:

"For since the beginning of the world [men] have not heard, nor perceived by the ear, either hath the eye seen, O God, beside Thee, what He hath prepared for him that waits for Him. Thou meets him that rejoices and works righteousness [those that] remember Thee in thy ways; behold, Thou art wroth; for we have sinned: in all those is continuance, and we shall be saved. But we are all as an unclean [thing] and all our righteousnesses [are] as filthy rags; and we all do fade as a leaf; and our iniquities like the wind have taken us away.

" ... there is none that calleth upon Thy Name, that stirs up Himself to take hold of Thee; for Thou hast hid Thy face from us and hast consumed us because of our iniquities ... but now O Lord, Thou art our Father; we are the clay, and Thou our potter; and we all are the work of Thy hand." (Isaiah 64:4-8; Psalm 31:19; Philippians 3:9; Psalm 90:5-6; Isaiah 29:16; Isaiah 45:9)

It is for this reason that the Lord thy God willingly became our Saviour. Not another but the One and Same God who created us in the beginning was manifest in the flesh. (I Timothy 3:16; Isaiah 9:6) The Lord coming forth as a mighty man. (Isaiah 42:13)

"For I am the Lord, I change not;" (Malachi 3:6)

Apostle Paul wrote: "But what things were gain to me, those I counted loss for Christ. Yea doubtless, and I count all things but loss for the excellency of the knowledge of Christ Jesus my Lord; for whom I have suffered the loss of all things, and do count them [but] dung, that I may win Christ -- and be found in Him, not having mine own righteousness (which is of the law) but that which is through the faith of Christ -- the righteousness which is of God by faith -- THAT I MAY KNOW HIM, and the power of His resurrection, and the fellowship of His sufferings, being made conformable unto His death ..."

That I may know Him! The first man Adam was made a living soul; the last Adam [was made] a quickening Spirit. (I Corinthians 15:45)

Not them or God as three persons -- as the religious culture falsely teaches but to know Him - our Lord God and Saviour Jesus the Christ -- our heavenly Father who willingly became as one of us -- so that we might find life in Him -- "from whence also we look for the Saviour, the Lord Jesus Christ, who shall change our vile body, that it may be fashioned like unto His glorious body according to the working whereby He is able even to subdue all things unto Himself." (Philippians 4:20-21; Ephesians 2:6, 19; Acts 1:11; I Corinthians 1:7; I Corinthians 15:28, 43-53; I John 3:2; Ephesians 1:19)

As those who are witnessing a declining world -- weary of hope are aware, we have endured a time when those who draw near the Lord with their mouth and with their lips appear to honour Him, but their hearts are removed far "from Me" saith the Lord, and their fear toward Him taught by the precept of men. Still, a breakthrough is coming in the deep darkness that has prevailed this world -- for far too long, and the truth about our Lord God and Saviour Jesus the Christ will be revealed in the hearts of men.

"Therefore, behold, I will proceed to do a marvellous work among this people, [even] a marvellous work and a wonder; for the wisdom of their wise [men] shall perish, and the understanding of their prudent [men] shall be hid. Woe unto them that seek deep to hide their counsel from the Lord, and their works are in the dark, and they say -- who sees us? and who knows us? Surely, your turning of things upside down shall be esteemed as the potter's clay; for shall the work say of Him that made it, He made me not? or shall the thing framed say of Him that framed it, He had no understanding?" (Isaiah 29:13-16; Matthew 15:8-9; Mark 7:6-7; Colossians 2:22; Habakkuk 1:5; Jeremiah 49:7; Isaiah 30:1; Psalm 10:11; Psalm 94:7; Isaiah 45:9)

"Is it not yet a very little while and Lebanon shall be turned into a fruitful field, and the fruitful field shall be esteemed as a forest?" (Isaiah 29:17; Isaiah 32:15)

Why is this important?

Because "in that day shall the deaf hear the words of the book, and the eyes of the blind shall see out of obscurity, and out of darkness. The meek also shall increase in their joy in the Lord and the poor among men shall rejoice in the Holy One of Israel ..." (Isaiah 29:18-19; Isaiah 35:5; Isaiah 1:4; Isaiah 61:1; James 2:5)

"Until the Spirit be poured upon us from on high, and the wilderness be a fruitful field, and the fruitful field can be counted for a forest. Then judgment shall dwell in the wilderness, and righteousness remain in the fruitful field. And the work of righteousness shall be peace; and the effect of righteousness quietness and assurance for ever. And My people shall dwell in a peaceable habitation, and in sure dwellings, and in quiet resting places; when it shall hail, coming down on the forest; and the city shall be low in a low place. Blessed are ye that sow beside all waters, that send forth thither the feet of the ox and the ass." (Isaiah 32:15-20)

And when this is seen to happen, and they see His children, the work of Mine hands in the midst of him, they shall sanctify My Name, and sanctify the Holy One of Jacob, and shall fear the God of Israel. Who is the "they" herein? Those who in the past have erred in spirit shall come to understanding and they that murmured shall learn doctrine." (Isaiah 29:23-24; Isaiah 45:11; Isaiah 49:20-26; Isaiah 28:7)

The same words spoken by Jesus in Revelation 3:8-9 -- His promise to those who have kept His Word, and not denied His Name.

Then will the field [possibly wilderness] that is not as yet cultivated bring forth an abundance of fruit for the Lord. We will see the same He who redeemed Abraham from his troubles, redeem those who are called and respond to His invitation to "Come" to the most elaborate wedding feast ever witnessed. Conversely, those who err in spirit and are deceived, murmuring against the truth will recognize the folly of their ways.

"In whom ye also [trusted], after that ye heard the Word of truth, the gospel of your salvation: in whom also after that ye believed, ye were sealed with that holy Spirit of promise, which is the earnest of our inheritance until the redemption of the purchased possession, unto the praise of His glory ..." (Ephesians 1:13-14)

Prophesied from afore, the Lord promised -- “a new heart also will I give you, and a new Spirit will I put within you: and I will take away the stony heart out of your flesh, and I will give you an heart of flesh.” (Ezekiel 36:26)

"Now the Lord is that Spirit: and where the Spirit of the Lord [is], there [is] liberty." (2 Corinthians 3:17)

Thus, let "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)

And recognize also, that today is the day which the Lord hath made. Rejoice and be glad in it. If you do not know Jesus as your Lord and Saviour, ask Jesus into your heart today. Find yourselves a King James version Bible (or an earlier translation) and get into the new testament -- the Word of the Lord -- so that you also can partake as an heir in the greatest love story ever told. Be refreshed in the Spirit of the Lord, and His goodness and grace, and love and mercy. And be ye unmoveable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, forasmuch as ye know that your labour is not in vain in the Lord. (I Corinthians 15:45-58)

Stand in the offering plate.

Him Being Delivered By The Determinate Counsel And Foreknowledge - Part 1648

"For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon His shoulder: and His Name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, The Mighty God, The Everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace." (Isaiah 9:6)

When one attempts to promote a tri-une god (a trinity), it is no wonder God winked. For one things, it reveals a willingness to believe any teaching emanating from the pulpit, rather than search the scriptures ourselves for the absolute which can only be found in our Lord God and Saviour Jesus the Christ.

Indeed, it reminds me of the time apostle Paul stood up and said, "Ye men of Athens, I perceive that in all things you are too superstitious; for as I passed by and beheld your devotions, I found an alter with this inscription -- To the Unknown God -- who therefore ye ignorantly worship." (Acts 17:22-33) Apostle Paul goes on to declare that this God who made the earth and all things therein is LORD of heaven and earth ... and that these misled should seek the Lord in who we live and move and have our being. This same Lord who was also the Christ. (Acts 2:36) This same son of man who is the Lord of glory. God manifest in the flesh -- the Lord's Christ for one and all to behold.

This is why we become the offspring of God when we believe in Jesus by faith, and are water baptized in His Name, receiving the Holy Ghost -- the Comforter who will lead and guide us into all truth. The same Holy Ghost which counsels us against as thinking that the Godhead is like unto gold or silver or stone, or a mere mortal as some like to suggest.

Where are the scriptures that can help one to understand the Godhead? How Jesus after He was taken up gave commandments unto His apostles THROUGH the Holy Ghost? (Acts 1:2-3) How there was a renewing of the Holy Ghost, when Jesus would be seen no more?

First and foremost, we need to understand that in times past, God spoke through the prophets. In these last times however, God spoke through [His] Son. (Hebrews 1:1) Through the mediator of the new testament -- the man Christ Jesus -- who was hidden in the bosom of the Father from the very beginning until the words were spoken -- "This day have I begotten Thee!" 

Before the Holy Ghost overshadowed Mary so that she could bring forth a son, the first commandment was understood -- "Hear O Israel, the Lord thy God is ONE LORD!" (Deuteronomy 6:4; Mark 12:29-31) 

Moreover, Jesus said, "These are the words which I spake unto you, while I was yet with you, that ALL things must be fulfilled, which were written in the law of Moses, and [in] the prophets, and [in] the psalms concerning Me." (Luke 24:44) 

Then opened He their understanding -- the disciples' understanding that they might know the scriptures -- that repentance and remission of sins should be preached in His Name -- the "Name" of the Lord Jesus Christ among the nations. Thus, when Peter (standing with the eleven) on the day of Pentecost elaborates (fully understanding by now that Jesus was God manifest in the flesh re: I Timothy 3:16) he states:

"Him being delivered by the determinate counsel and foreknowledge of God ye have taken and by wicked hands have crucified and slain; whom God hath raised up having loosed the pains of death; because it was not possible that He should be holden of it FOR DAVID SPAKE CONCERNING HIM -- "I foresaw the Lord always before My face, for He is on My right hand, that I should not be moved: therefore, did My heart rejoice and My tongue was glad; moreover, also My flesh shall rest in hope; because Thou wilt not leave My soul in hell, neither wilt Thou suffer Thine Holy One to see corruption. Thou hast made known to Me the ways of life; Thou shalt make Me full of joy with Thy countenance." (Acts 2:23-28; Psalm 16:8-11; Acts 2:31-35; Acts 13:30-37; Hebrews 13:20; Psalm 132:11) 

This is why Peter could say (when he freely spoke of the patriarch David) that this SAME Jesus whom ye have crucified is BOTH Lord and Christ. (Acts 2:36) 

The SAME He to which Nicodemus said, "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 ..." (John 3:2; 5:6) 

The SAME He -- the Spirit of Him that raised up Jesus from the dead who dwells in you -- "He that raised up Christ from the dead shall also quicken your mortal bodies by His Spirit that dwells in you!" (Romans 8:11) 

The SAME He whom the apostles declared -- "when they had fulfilled all that was written of Him, they took [Him] down from the tree, and laid [Him] in a sepulchre. But God raised Him from the dead, and He was seen many days of them which came up with Him from Galilee to Jerusalem, who are His witnesses unto the people ... God hath fulfilled the same unto us their children, in that He hath raised up Jesus again: as it is also written in the second psalm, "Thou art My Son, this day have I begotten Thee." 

And, as concerning that He raised Him up from the dead, [now] no more to return to corruption He said on this wise, "I will give you the sure mercies of David." (Acts 13:30-37) 

"Now the God of peace that brought again from the dead our Lord Jesus -- that Great Shepherd of the sheep, through the blood of the everlasting covenant, make you perfect in every good work to do His will ..." 

Not "their" will as those who teach the trinity or the false doctrine -- God exists in 3 persons, co-existent and co-eternal with each other -- but the One and Same Lord God who moved upon the face of the waters in the very beginning. (Genesis 1:1-2) 

This is why Thomas could say, when he thrust his hand into Jesus' side -- "My Lord AND My God!" (John 20:26-29) Because God IS THE LORD -- Psalm 118:27. 

After the kindness and love of God our Saviour toward man appeared! (Titus 3:4-7) 

This is why we look for that blessed hope and the glorious appearing of the great God and our Saviour Jesus Christ -- who gave Himself for us! (Titus 2:13-14) 

"I, [even] I, [am] He that blotteth out thy transgressions for Mine own sake, and will not remember thy sins." (Isaiah 44:25)

You ask -- who "sent" Jesus? Did the Lord God -- the Lord of hosts in times past not ask this very same question? 

"Also I heard the voice of the Lord saying, "Whom shall I send, and who will go for us? Then said I -- Here [am] I; send Me." (Isaiah 6:8) This is why "therefore, the Lord Himself shall give you a sign; behold a virgin shall conceive and bear a son, and shall call His Name Immanuel." (Isaiah 7:14; Matthew 1:21-23; Luke 1:31-35; John 1:45; Isaiah 9:6) 

"Behold, God is my salvation ... He also is become my salvation." (Isaiah 12:2) 

"And the glory of the Lord shall be revealed, and all flesh shall see [it] together; for the mouth of the Lord hath spoken [it]." (Isaiah 40:5) 

When the Lord God further queries in Isaiah 40, what does He say: "To whom then will ye liken God? Or, what likeness will ye compare unto Him?" (Isaiah 40:18) 

"To whom then will ye liken Me, or shall I be equal," saith the Holy One!" (Isaiah 40:25) 

This is why "the Lord shall go forth as a mighty man ..." (Isaiah 42:13) 

While too many religious teachers in this day transgress against the Lord God with their false, man-made traditions of men, these cannot negate that the Lord God Himself said, "I am He: before Me there was no God formed, neither shall there be after Me. I, [even] I am He that blots out thy transgressions for Mine own sake, and will not remember thy sins." (Isaiah 44:25) 

"Ye are even My witnesses, Is there a God beside Me? yea, there is no God, I know not any!" (Isaiah 44:8; Isaiah 45:5; Isaiah 45:12) 

"I am the Lord and there is none else!" (Isaiah 45:18) 

I could go on and on citing scripture upon scripture -- line upon line and precept upon precept -- but all this so ye might believe that Jesus is not only the promised Christ, the Son of God -- but also that when ye believe in Him and worship Him as doth the angels, you are worshipping the Lord thy God who prepared for Himself a body to become the "perfect" sacrifice on the cross. (Hebrews 9:15-18)

"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 believed Him not -- but as many as receive Him -- [Jesus] to them gave He power to become the sons of God -- to them that believe on His Name. (John 1:1-18) 

So that y/we might have life through His Name! 

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

Again, "for in Him dwelleth all the fullness of the Godhead bodily ..." (Colossians 2:9) "He that abides in Christ -- he hath both the Father and the Son .. " (II John 1:9) The Holy Ghost wherein Jesus gave commandments to the apostles whom He had chosen. 

As Jesus so clearly said, when He told His disciples that He must go away if the Comforter -- the Holy Ghost is to come -- "These things have I spoken unto you, being YET present with you. But the Comforter [which is] the Holy Ghost -- whom the Father will send in MY NAME, He shall teach you all things and bring all things to your remembrance whatsoever I have said unto you." (John 14:26) 

These things Jesus said "before it shall come to pass, that when it is come to pass, ye might believe!" (John 14:26) Now that these things have come to pass, we understand that after Jesus was taken up, He now THROUGH the Holy Ghost leads and guides us into all truth. (Acts 1:2) 

Jesus said, "And the glory which Thou gave Me I have given them: that they may be one, even as WE ARE ONE!" (John 17:33) 

He declared unto us "Thy Name" for this current dispensation of grace. This is why we are to search the scriptures -- for as Jesus said, "they are they which testify of Me!" (John 5:39)

His love and mercy for one and all to behold!
  Stand in the offering plate.