For This Is My Covenant Unto Them When I Shall Take Away Their Sins.- Part 1860

"But this shall be the covenant that I will make with the house of Israel; After those days," saith the LORD, "I will put My law in their inward parts, and write it in their hearts; and will be their God, and they shall be My people." (Jeremiah 31:20, 33)

"Forasmuch as ye are manifestly declared to be the epistle of Christ ministered by us, written not with ink, but with the Spirit of the living God; not in tables of stone, but in fleshy tables of the heart, and such trust have we through Christ to Godward; not that we are sufficient of ourselves to think any thing as of ourselves; but our sufficiency is of God; who hath made us able ..." (II Corinthians 3:1-6)

In its entirety, II Corinthians 3 is worth reading so that we can understand the glory that comes with the new testament. And that for this cause, He is the mediator of the New Testament, that by means of 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, there must also of necessity be the death of the testator. For a testament is of force after men are dead; otherwise, it is of no strength at all while the testator lives. Whereupon neither the first testament was dedicated without blood ..." (Hebrews 9:15-18)

Therefore, Christ is not entered into the holy places made with hands, which are the figures [copies] of the true; but into heaven itself, now to appear in the presence of God for us: nor yet that He should offer Himself often, as the high priest enters into the holy place every year with blood of others -- for then must He often have suffered since the foundation of the world: but now once in the end of the world hath He appeared to put away sin by the sacrifice of Himself. And as it is appointed unto men once to die, but after this the judgment, so Christ was once offered to bear the sins of many; and unto the that look for Him shall He appear the second time without sin unto salvation. (Hebrews 9:24-28)

Therefore, 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? Remember, the Holy Ghost this signifying that the way into the holiest of all was not yet made manifest while as the first tabernacle was yet standing.

Yes, God Himself tore the vail that kept us from Him, and did so from top to bottom, heaven to earth. He paid the price for our sins once and for all, but we need to respond to His invitation to come unto Him and worship Him with all our heart, soul, mind and strength, In everything we do, in both word or deed, do all in the precious holy Name of the Lord Jesus -- the Christ.

In this current dispensation of grace, we can receive the promise that was held in the bosom of the Father from the very beginning of the world. Thus, look unto Jesus who is the Author and Finisher of our faith; who of the joy that was set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is sent down at the right hand of the throne of God. For consider Him that endured such contradiction of sinners against Himself, lest ye be wearied and faint in your minds. (Hebrews 11:39-40; Hebrews 12:1-3; Colossians 3:8; I Corinthians 9:24; Romans 12:12; Luke 24:26; Psalm 69:7, 19; Philippians 2:8; Psalm 110:1; Matthew 10:24, 30; Galatians 6:9; I Timothy 3:16)

For He is the Alpha and Omega, the first and the last, the beginning and the ending. (Revelation 1:8)

Stand in the offering plate.

But Christ As A Son Over His Own House, Whose House Are We, If We Hold Fast The Confidence And Rejoicing Of The Hope Firm Unto The End - Part 1859

"For unto us was the gospel preached, as well as unto them, but the Word preached did not profit them, not being mixed with faith in them that heard it." (Hebrews 4:2)

David the psalmist foretold the same when he wrote: "Unto whom I sware in my wrath that they should not enter into My rest." (Psalm 95:11)

Herein, the scriptures are specifically referencing those to whom the gospel was first preached, in the old covenant, and how they did not enter in because of unbelief. Remember, in Matthew's account of Jesus walking the earth, Jesus preached to those under the Law, so that these would be without excuse. And, as the Holy Ghost saith, "To day if ye will hear His voice, harden not your hearts, as in the provocation [rebellion], in the day of temptation in the wilderness; when your fathers tempted Me, proved Me, and saw My works forty years. Wherefore I was grieved with that generation, and said, "They do alway err in their heart; and they have not known My ways, so I sware in My wrath, they shall not enter into My rest." (Hebrews 3:7-11; Acts 1:16; Psalm 95:7-11; Hebrews 3:15)

Sadly, there will always be those who will not enter into His rest, even when the Lord's invitation on the table outweighs any and all of the constructs of this world. Even when the Lord Himself pleaded with those who followed Him, saying, "Come unto Me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest." (Matthew 11:28) Even when we know Jesus wept for those who turned away, having heard the gospel but did not mix their hearing of the Word with faith. 

Still, for those of us which do believe, and gladly receive His Word, we can enter into rest. In so doing, we are made partakers of Christ, if we hold the beginning of our confidence steadfast unto the end. "For he that is entered into His rest, he also hath ceased from his own works as God [did] from His." (Hebrews 4:10) This is why we who believe labour therefore to enter into that rest, lest any man fall after the same example of unbelief. For the Word of God is quick, and powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart. (Hebrews 4:10-12; II Peter 1:10; Psalm 147:15; Isaiah 49:2; Ephesians 6:17; I Corinthians 14:24-25; Psalm 33:13-15; Psalm 90:8; Job 26:6)

And we know that we have not an high priest which cannot be touched with the feeling of our infirmities; but was in all points tempted like as we are, yet without sin. His Name is Jesus -- our great high priest, that is now passed into the heavens, leading and guiding us into all truth through the Holy Ghost. (Acts 1:2-3) Jesus said, "I will never leave you nor forsake you ... I will come to you!"  This is why, as believers in Jesus by faith, we can come boldly unto the throne of grace, so that we may obtain mercy and grace to help in time of need.

As for those that the scriptures state will not believe the truth? It is because "they will not frame their doings to turn unto their God: for the spirit of whoredoms is in the midst of them, and they have not known the Lord." (Hosea 5:4)

While the Word of the Lord spoken through Hosea may (at first) appear harsh to those who preach only kindness to one another (as a takeaway gospel) we also note that apostle Paul warned against those who teach contrary to the Word of God. Indeed, Paul said "let them be accursed." (Galatians 1:8-9; I Corinthians 12:3; Romans 9:3)

Those within the modern day religious culture, for example, who teach that God is only one part of a Godhead -- a third. Rather than tell you the truth that God is the greatest love story ever told because God purchased us with His very own precious blood, these endeavour to dilute the truth of the Word. (Acts 20:28) Within these associations, you will never heart that God loved us so much that He Himself would robe Himself in flesh so that He could usher in His plan of redemption for you and I.

And, even more recently, that water baptism is just a religious ritual that is no longer necessary for salvation. Most certainly, these false teachers will never tell you to be water baptized in the precious Name of the Lord Jesus Christ. (Acts 2:36-38; Romans 6:3-4; I Peter 3:21-22; Acts 10:44-48) How many times have we heard the day of Pentecost message preached, wherein Peter, standing with the eleven responded to those who asked them what they must do to be saved in Acts 2:1-37, and never heard the answer given in Acts 2:38?

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

Or, that "when they believed Philip preaching the things concerning the kingdom of God, and the name of Jesus Christ, they were baptized, both men and women ... (For as yet he was fallen upon none of them: only they were baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus)" (Acts 8:12-16)

"When they heard this, they were baptized in the Name of the Lord Jesus. And when Paul had laid his hands upon them, the Holy Ghost came on them; and they spake with tongues, and prophesied." (Acts 19:5-6)

"The like figure whereunto even baptism doth also now save us (not the putting away of the filth of the flesh, but the answer of a good conscience toward God) by the resurrection of Jesus Christ ... " (I Peter 3:21)

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

Because when we gladly receive the Word -- Jesus -- into our minds, hearts, and souls, we enter into His rest. He becomes our all in all -- both Lord and Christ one everything we do. His Name is JESUS, for He shall save His people from their sins. But don't stop there because as Lord God and Saviour, there is so much more to be enjoyed -- to the point that your cup will run over with His joy and peace and love forevermore.

Stand in the offering plate.

And This Is The Record, That God Hath Given To Us Eternal Life And this Life Is In His Son -- The Name of the Lord Jesus Christ.- Part 1858

If My people which are called by MY NAME shall humble themselves, and pray, and seek My face, and turn from their wicked ways; then will I hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin, and will heal their land. (II Chronicles 7:14)

Who declared this promise? Of course, it was the Lord God. But as we have looked at before, God is not a name. Rather, God is a descriptive title. But what happens when some people suggest that both name and descriptive title are one and the same? That both terms really mean the same thing? The only legitimate response would be that it could only be the same because these folks want it to be ... perhaps, to console themselves from their own misdirection.

Nevertheless, our beliefs are not based on unsubstantiated opinion. In fact, Jesus told us that we are sanctified by truth, and then He said (just in case we missed it) that Thy Word is Truth! (John 17:17) This same Word that is forever confirmed in heaven is more precious than silver and gold. " For ever, O LORD, thy word is settled in heaven." (Psalm 119:89)

Thus, in studying the New Testament (written specifically for us in this dispensation of grace) early believers were known to seek after the truths of the Word of God to the point that the Word of God became more important than their necessary sustenance. I’m sure most believers understand the depth and breadth of the Christian born again experience. Certainly, there is an example found in the first and second chapter of Acts. Indeed, the outpouring of the Holy Ghost led to the establishment of the New Testament church on the day of Pentecost, wherein, the first 3,000 souls saved attested to this same Jesus whom they have crucified --as both Lord and Christ.

So who is Jesus? God manifest in the flesh as a Son. Jesus is the Christ, the Messiah, God with us. Conceived of the Holy Ghost. In Jesus did dwell all the fullness of the Godhead bodily. So all of these, Jesus assuredly was. But still, what was His name? This is the question. Of course JESUS is the name given unto men whereby we must be saved. (Matthew 1:21-23; Luke 1:36; Acts 4:12; Philippians 2:9)

Yes, the angel declared that His Name is Jesus. Other scriptures confirm this same fact. For instance, There is no other name under Heaven given among men whereby mankind can be saved. The Name is JESUS! Whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved. What is the Name? JESUS! Believe on the LORD JESUS the Christ and you shall be saved. Look to Me all you people, even to the ends of the earth and be saved. Why?

Because as the scripture states, and the Spirit dwelling within us confirms, "I AM GOD and beside Me there is no Saviour." I AM the Good Shepherd, the same Good Shepherd that gives His life for His sheep. Tell me again - who was the Good Shepherd? There is only one good Shepherd and His name is JESUS. The Name of JESUS is ABOVE every other name in Heaven and Earth. God (eternal Spirit) has glorified His Son JESUS, declaring that JESUS is both LORD and CHRIST.

Therefore, let ALL the angels of GOD WORSHIP HIM! And you shall WORSHIP the LORD your GOD and HIM only shall you serve! And further, what do the scriptures state? Yes, that every knee shall bow and every tongue will confess that Jesus the Christ is Lord. The scriptures also state that repentance and remission of sin should be preached among all nations, beginning at Jerusalem.

Therefore, repent, and be baptized into the Name of JESUS for the remission of sin so that you shall receive the gift of His Spirit -- the Holy Ghost. Just like the apostles did when Jesus called them and said, "Follow Me!"

"For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son so that whosoever believes on Him should not perish but have everlasting life." (John 3:16) The promise for one and all, but if we are to receive the blessing, we need to repent first, and to accept Jesus the Christ into our hearts.

Yes, JESUS breathed on them saying, "Receive ye the Holy Ghost ..." And that message has not changed from the beginning of time.

Jesus said, "And I give unto them eternal life; and they shall never perish, neither shall any [man] pluck them out of my hand." (John 10:28)

"That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised Him from the dead, thou shalt be saved.(Romans 10:9)

Stand in the offering plate.

For I Neither Received It Of Man, Neither Was I Taught It But By The Revelation Of Jesus Christ - Part 1857

"But in all things approving ourselves as the ministers of God, in much patience, in afflictions, in necessities, in tastings, in stripes, in imprisonments, in tumults, in labours, in watchings, in tastings; by pureness, by knowledge, by long-suffering, by kindness, by the Holy Ghost, by love unfeigned, by the Word of truth, by the power of God, by the armour of righteousness on the right hand and on the left ..." (II Corinthians 6:4-7)

Many have claimed to have read some or all of the Word of God -- the holy Bible/scriptures -- and suggest that they come away with very little understanding of what they read. At first, this appears to be a criticism, and as we know from the time in which we live, a justification for publishers to revise and rewrite the Word of truth. As a consequence, the Word is now being rewritten -- by omitting complete scriptures, using simpler words, and taking out any substance that might be deemed discriminatory, and sadly, without much opposition from believers. Sadly, this may explain why we as believers appear to be losing the battle for Holy Ghost faith in the world.

Nevertheless, we who believe in Jesus as both Lord and Christ in our hearts know that the scriptures are clear and empowering for those with eyes to see and ears to hear. But like school, wherein the basics of reading, writing, and math must first be learned/acquired before learning more complicated text, we also understand that one can never know the totality of the holy Bible without the Holy Ghost dwelling within them. Why? Because it is the heart that responds to God's call to come to Him. Therefore, an intellectual response in and of itself, is not sufficient.

Further, the Spirit of the Lord God that moved across the face of the waters in the beginning has written the Word in such a way that we can continually learn, as we desire in our hearts more of Him. For example, John states: "He was in the world and the world was made by Him and the world knew Him not. He came unto His own and His own received Him not." (John 1:10-11) But unless you first understand that JESUS is the Word -- the Word that was with God and was God, the same God made flesh who dwelt among us, one cannot rightly understand the He referenced here. (I Timothy 3:16; Isaiah 9:6; Genesis 1:1; Titus 3:4-7; Revelation 1:8; John 14:6-12; John 10:30)

Another example from John (apparently the most cited verse in the world!) is also problematic if we subscribe to the teachings of many within the modern day religious culture. The verse? "For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son that whosoever BELIEVES IN HIM should not perish but have everlasting life." (John 3:16) The Him herein is JESUS, for He shall save His people from their sins. (Matthew 1:21-23) Emmanuel, being interpreted as God with us.

"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." (II Corinthians 5:19)

Therefore, when we are in Christ, we become 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 to us the ministry of reconciliation. This is why those who believe in Jesus become ambassadors for Christ, because we also understand that He hath made Him to be sin for us. He who knew no sin, that we might be made the righteousness of God in Him. (II Corinthians 5:17-21)

After the kindness and love of God our Saviour toward man appeared. Indeed, He willingly robed Himself in flesh for our salvation. He paid the price once and for all for our sins. And our Lord God and Saviour Jesus the Christ wants to dwell in us as sons and daughters of the Most High, and walk with us in our faith journey so that He can be our God, and we His people. (II Corinthians 6:16; I Corinthians 3:16-17; Jeremiah 31:33; Ezekiel 37:26-27)

Always a heart response to His call.

Further, God is not the author of confusion. Thy Word is truth and indeed, we are sanctified by His Word. (John 17:17) Thus, give us this day our daily bread! The more we search and study the scriptures, and can be trusted with the Word (not to have wronged/corrupted/defrauded any with another gospel, as apostle Paul writes) He reveals Himself to us.

Meditate on the following scriptures as a starting point for your faith journey, and yes, look at each verse in your Bible to ensure accuracy, and similarly, for your edification. I would suggest marking these verses for later reference, and for study purposes. Know too that there are so many more scriptures to learn and understand about our Lord God, and the greatest love story ever told.

"In the beginning, God ... and the SPIRIT OF GOD moved upon the face of the waters" ( Genesis 1:1-2)

"Speak unto all the congregation of the children of Israel, and say unto them, "Ye shall be holy: for I the LORD YOUR GOD AM HOLY." (Leviticus 19:2)

"There is none holy as the Lord: FOR THERE IS NONE BESIDE THEE: neither is there any Rock like our God." (I Samuel 2:2)

"Exalt ye the Lord our God, and worship at His footstool; for HE IS HOLY." (Psalm 99:5)

"God is a Spirit: and they that worship Him must worship Him in Spirit and in truth." (John 4:24)

“But the LORD is the TRUE GOD, He is the living God, and an everlasting king: at His wrath the earth shall tremble, and the nations shall not be able to abide His indignation.” (Jeremiah 10:10)

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

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

His Name is JESUS, the ONLY NAME whereby we must be saved in this current dispensation of grace, (Acts 4:12; Matthew 1:18-23; Luke 1:35; Philippians 2:9; Revelation 1:8)

And do not be deceived by those who refuse to submit to the Word, or as the prophet Hosea clearly states -- "... will not frame their doings to turn unto their God: for the spirit of whoredoms is in the midst of them, and they have not known the Lord." (Hosea 5:4)

Stand in the offering plate.

'I Will Give Them A Heart To Know Me, For I Am The LORD; And They Will Be My People, And I Will Be Their God, For They Will Return To Me With Their Whole Heart. - Part 1856

"I kept watching until thrones were set in place and the Ancient of Days sat down. His clothing was white like snow, and the hair of His head was like clean wool. His throne was flames of fire; its wheels were a burning fire ... I kept watching in the visions of the night, and look with the clouds of the heavens, someone like a son of man was coming; and He gained access to the Ancient of Days, and they brought Him up close before that One." (Daniel 7:9, 13)

"This is the covenant I will make with the house of Israel after those days," says the Lord. "I will put My laws in their minds, and inscribe them on their hearts. And I will be their God, and they will be My people." (Hebrews 8:10)

"This is the covenant I will make with them after those days," says the Lord. "I will put My Laws in their hearts and inscribe them on their minds." (Hebrews 10:16)

" ... that He may incline our hearts to Himself, to walk in all His ways and to keep His commandments and His statutes and His ordinances, which He commanded our fathers." (I Kings 8:58)

"I delight to do Your will, O my God; Your Law is within my heart." (Psalms 40:8)

"I will give them a heart to know Me, for I am the LORD; and they will be My people, and I will be their God, for they will return to Me with their whole heart." (Jeremiah 24:7)

'You shall be My people, and I will be your God.'" (Jeremiah 30:22)

When one begins to understand the mystery of godliness that was held in the bosom of the Father from the very beginning -- that in these last times, at the appointed time -- this One and Same Spirit of the Lord God who moved upon the face of the waters in the beginning, the One Lord God who is both holy and Spirit throughout the Old Testament willingly manifested Himself in the flesh for you and I, we can now say without hesitation, that JESUS is the greatest love story ever told. (Genesis 1:2; I Timothy 3:16; John 1:1-18; John 14:6-12; Matthew 1:21-23; Isaiah 9:6)

Our hearts will yearn to know more of the kindness and love of God our Saviour. (Titus 3:4-7) And we will desire to have His Word hid in our hearts. The same Word who was made flesh and dwelt among us. He was in the world and the world was made by Him and the world knew Him not. He came unto His own and His own received Him not. (John 1:1-14)

And in so desiring to do everything we do in word or deed, in the precious Name of the Lord Jesus, the Christ, the fruits of His Spirit will be evident in our day to day -- His love flowing through us to others, even when we ourselves are still facing the challenges of this world. In other words, our hearts and minds, our very essence of our being will be looking upward, to the things of heaven, wherein comes our salvation.

Not as a trinity, or a triad, or God in three persons, as the false religious culture and traditions of men proclaim, but rather as the ONE God who loves us beyond any earthly measure as His precious beloved. He is the One and Only, and in this dispensation of grace, His Name is JESUS, for He alone shall save His people from their sins.

This is clearly stated in the first commandment, and confirmed by Jesus to the scribe in the new -- "Hear O Israel the Lord thy God is ONE LORD!" (Deuteronomy 6:4; Mark 12:29-31)

In Genesis, we understand that "in the beginning, God ..." (Genesis 1:1) And that the SPIRIT OF GOD moved upon the face of the waters" ( Genesis 1:2)

In Leviticus, "Speak unto all the congregation of the children of Israel, and say unto them, "Ye shall be holy: for I the LORD YOUR GOD AM HOLY." (Leviticus 19:2)

In I Samuel, "There is none holy as the Lord: FOR THERE IS NONE BESIDE THEE: neither is there any Rock like our God." (I Samuel 2:2)

In Psalms, "Exalt ye the Lord our God, and worship at His footstool; for HE IS HOLY." (Psalm 99:5)

“But the LORD is the TRUE GOD, He is the living God, and an everlasting King: at His wrath the earth shall tremble, and the nations shall not be able to abide His indignation.” (Jeremiah 10:10)

Through Isaiah, the Lord repeatedly said He would become our Saviour. That when He looked for one that is perfect, none could be found, so He Himself willingly took our place on a cross so that we might be saved. His right arm given for you and I. The Lord coming forth as a mighty man. (Isaiah 42:13; Isaiah 9:6)

And indeed, in the New Testament side, "God is a Spirit: and they that worship Him must worship Him in spirit and in truth." (John 4:24)

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

After the kindness and love of God our Saviour. (Titus 3:4-7)

But in their confusion, the traditions of men want God to be both holy and a Spirit but not the one and same holy Spirit (the Holy Ghost) who overshadowed Mary so that she could bring forth a son and call His Name JESUS! (Matthew 1:21-23; Luke 1:35; Acts 4:12; Acts 1:2) These don't want to recognize that after Jesus was taken up, He [Jesus] THROUGH the Holy Ghost gave commandments unto the apostles whom He had chosen. This is why Jesus could say He would never leave us nor forsake us, even when He was telling His apostles that they would see Him no more. Because the Comforter, which is the Holy Ghost, will lead and guide you into all truth.

Thy Word is truth. (John 17:17)

The Word and the Spirit must agree.

Therefore, if any man speak, let him speak as the oracles [utterances] of God, and let him do it as of the ability which God gives; that God in all things may be glorified through Jesus Christ, to whom be praise and dominion for ever and ever.

Because of the truth that is the Word -- JESUS -- we are no longer deluded by the traditions of men. In fact, like apostle Paul, the blinders have come off so that when the chief Shepherd shall appear, ye shall receive a crown of glory that fades not away. (I Peter 5:4)

The chief Shepherd is the One who willingly laid down His life for us, whilst we were still His enemies. And if the apostles knew the Name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit as Jesus, so should we.

"For He received from God the Father honour and glory, when there came such a voice to Him from the excellent glory -- "This is My beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased." And this voice which came from heaven we heard, when we were with Him in the holy mount." We have also a more sure Word of prophecy; whereunto ye do well that ye take heed, as unto a light that shines in a dark place, until the day dawn and the day star arise in your hearts. Knowing this first, that no prophecy of the scripture is of any private interpretation. For the prophecy came not in old time by the will of man; but holy men of God spake as they were moved by the Holy Ghost." (II Peter 1:17-21)

As for the false prophets, and false teachers who privily shall bring in damnable heresies, even denying the Lord that bought them, they -- as the scriptures state -- shall follow their pernicious ways; by reason of whom the way of truth shall be evil spoken of, and through covetousness shall they with feigned words make merchandise of you. (II Peter 2:1-3)

But there is a better way, and this is why we remain mindful of the words which were spoken before by the holy prophets, and of the commandments of us the apostles of the Lord and Saviour. (II Peter 3:1-2)

The Way, the Truth, and the Life in this dispensation of grace is JESUS. And just as the beginning of the New Testament church began on the day of Pentecost, when the Lord poured out His Spirit, we need to repent, accepting Jesus as both Lord and Christ in our hearts, and be water baptized in His Name -- the Name of the Lord Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and then will we receive the gift of the Holy Ghost. The Lord God's Spirit dwelling within, leading and guiding us into all truth.

He is our hope and peace and joy. One Lord, One Faith, One Baptism. One God and Father of all who is above all and through all and in you all. (Ephesians 4:5-6)

Stand in the offering plate.

Commending You To God, And To The Word Of His Grace, Which Is Able To Build You Up, And to Give You An Inheritance Among Them Which Are Sanctified - Part 1855

"But this shall be the covenant that I will make with the house of Israel; After those days," saith the LORD, "I will put My law in their inward parts, and write it in their hearts; and will be their God, and they shall be My people." (Jeremiah 31:20, 33)

Apostle Paul wrote of his unshakeable faith in our Lord God and Saviour Jesus the Christ. Indeed, he warned us with tears of the things to come in these last days, and how there would be those who would try to deceive us with fine sounding words that are completely contrary to the Word of God. Nevertheless, we are instructed to remain faithful too, and that in everything we do -- in both word or deed -- in the precious Name of Jesus. (Acts 4:12; Philippians 2:9; Revelation 1:8)

"And now before I go bound in the Spirit unto Jerusalem, not knowing the things that shall befall me there; save that the Holy Ghost witnesses in every city, saying that bonds and afflictions abide me. But none of these things move me, neither count my life dear unto myself, so that I might finish my course with joy, and the ministry which I have received of the Lord Jesus to testify the gospel of the grace of God.

And now, behold, I know that ye all, among whom I have gone preaching the Kingdom of God, shall see my face no more. Wherefore, I take you to record this day, that I am pure from the blood of all men, for I have not shunned to declare unto you all the counsel of God. Take heed therefore unto yourselves, and to all the flock, over the which the Holy Ghost hath made you overseers, to feed the church of God -- which He hath purchased with His own blood.

For I know this, that after my departing shall grievous wolves enter in among you, not sparing the flock. Also, of your own selves shall men arise, speaking perverse things, to draw away disciples after them. Therefore, watch, and remember that by the space of three years, I ceased not to warn everyone night and day with tears. And now brethren, I commend you to God, and to the Word of His grace, which is able to build you up, and to give you an inheritance among all them which are sanctified." (Acts 20:22-32)

Apostle Paul testified both to the Jews and also to the Greeks {Gentiles] repentance toward God and faith toward our Lord Jesus Christ. Paul went to Ananias for instruction, after the Lord Jesus stopped him on his way to Damascus. Paul was water baptized after the scales fell from his eyes, and when he had received meat -- the Word of God -- he was strengthened. Paul was also filled with the Holy Ghost. And straightway, he preached Christ in the synagogues, that He is the promised/prophesied Son of God.

In other words, Paul (as Saul) went from destroying them which called on His Name in Jerusalem -- those who believe in Jesus -- to preaching to the Jews that Jesus is that very Christ who was promised from the very beginning. The mystery of godliness that was hidden in the bosom of the Father from the foundation of the world. (I Timothy 3:16; John 1:1-18; Colossians 2:9; Isaiah 9:6)

Note that Paul did not reject instruction, or create another gospel separate from the other apostles, but similar to those first 3,000 saved on the day of Pentecost, GLADLY received the Word in his heart. This includes repentance, and accepting this same Jesus, whom they had crucified as both Lord and Christ. (Acts 2:36) And similarly being water baptized in the precious holy Name of the Lord Jesus Christ so that ye too can be clothed in His righteousness. (Acts 2:38, 41) The promise of the Holy Ghost filling them with the promised joy and peace of our Lord God and Saviour Jesus the Christ, wherein He is able to build you up, and to give you an inheritance among them which are sanctified.

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

This is the promise of the Lord Jesus for each and every one of us. He paid the price once and for all for our sins, and He did so, by shedding His own precious blood on a cross, so that we might have abundant life in Him. Yes, He was bruised for our transgressions, and He did so willingly so that we could be redeemed to become a son or daughter of the Most High King!

But as apostle Paul also points out, we can expect grievous wolves to come and attempt to lead you astray from the truth.  Wolves in shepherd's clothing who don't want you to know that Jesus is the ONLY Way, the Truth, and the Life. (John 14:6) Those who choose to remain wilfully ignorant, to the point that these deny Jesus as the dayspring from on high who desired (from the beginning of the world) to visit His people. And that because of the kindness and love of God our Saviour, we can be sanctified by the Word, and that Thy Word is truth. (John 17:17; John 1:1-18)

But regardless of the lies and traditions of men, and a prevailing modern day religious culture determined to water down/delete/eliminate the Word of God as the absolute authority over all things in heaven and earth, we know, like all the apostles that everyone who GLADLY receives the Word [JESUS -- the Word made flesh] desires to be water baptized in His precious Name -- the Name of the Lord Jesus Christ for the remission of sins -- the answer of a clear conscience toward God -- by the resurrection of Jesus Christ. Then shall we receive the gift of the Holy Ghost, as promised. (Acts 2:36-41; Romans 6:3-4; I Peter 3:21-22)

This is why we study His Word, so that His Word can be hid in our hearts. Therein, we will learn and understand that Jesus is both Lord and Christ. (Acts 2:36; I Timothy 3:16; Isaiah 9:6; Luke 1:35) The first man Adam, earthy, but the second, the Lord from heaven. And as the scriptures also state, He purchased us with His own blood, and wants to give us the kingdom, if we would only love Him with all our heart, soul, mind, and strength, and because of His love and kindness, invite others to His wedding feast. (Acts 20:28; Mark 12:29-31; Revelation 1:8; Revelation 22:17)

"There is none holy as the Lord: FOR THERE IS NONE BESIDE THEE: neither is there any Rock like our God." (I Samuel 2:2)

His Name is JESUS, for He shall save His people from their sins. (Matthew 1:21-23)

Stand in the offering plate.

Declaring Unto You All The Counsel Of God Which He Hath Purchased With His Own Blood - Part 1854

"But if the ministration of death, written and engraven in stones, was glorious, so that the children of Israel could not steadfastly behold the face of Moses for the glory of his countenance; which glory was to be done away: how shall not the ministration of the Spirit be rather glorious? For if the ministration of condemnation be glory, much more doth the ministration of righteousness exceed in glory. For even that which was made glorious had no glory in this respect, by reason of the glory that excels. For if that which is done away 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 3:1-18)

You see, the Israelites could not see the promise, even though the Lord was faithful in His promises to them. He fed them manna from heaven. He walked them safely through harms way. He ensured that these had sufficient to sustain them, and similarly, parted the waters when the enemy tried to contain them. Still, these couldn't see the promised land for their blindness.

Instead, these only saw the trials and tribulations that arose in the day to day, and rather than remaining faithful to the same God Almighty that walked with them -- that Rock which followed them which was Christ -- these looked for other gods to worship -- and as recorded, only two entered into the Promised Land.

This is why it is critical to study the New Testament (as doth a workman unto God) wherein we can learn and understand this current dispensation of grace -- this glory time that apostle Paul refers o above. The vail that was/is done away in Christ, once and for all, when He ushered in the last times, when He --the dayspring from on high would visit His people. The Word made flesh, having dwelt among us so that we can be redeemed, sanctified, and clothed in His righteousness.

The children of Israel did not receive this glorious gospel because these were not privy to the hope that can only be found in God our Saviour, Jesus the Christ. And the same vail which was/is done away in Christ remains on the heart today when we read only the Old Testament -- that vail remains on our heart. Why? Because the promise, the hope of our salvation was only established when the Holy Ghost signified that it was time for the holiest of all to be made manifest, so that His glorious plan of salvation could be seen by one and all. But this could not happen while the first tabernacle (the Old Testament) was yet standing. (Hebrews 9:8, 1-18)

When Christ being come an high priest of good things to come, by a greater and more perfect tabernacle, not made with hands, that ts to say, not of building, neither by the blood of goats and calves, but by His own blood He entered in once into the holy place, having obtained eternal redemption for us.

Therefore, 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? Yes, it was for this cause that 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.

Thus Christ was once offered to bear the sins of many; and unto them that look for Him shall He appear the second time without sin unto salvation. (Hebrews 9:28)

For God so loved the world!

As Jesus said, "He that is not with Me is against Me ..." (Luke 11:23)

If you have not asked Jesus into your hear today, please do so without further delay. Find a New Testament and begin reading, asking our Lord God and Saviour Jesus the Christ, who purchased you with His own precious blood, to reveal Himself to you. And know, that in spite of the traditions of men, and a religious culture who has failed to teach the truth, that the Word is the Truth. Indeed, Jesus said, "I am the Way, the Truth, and the Life. No man comes to the Father but by Me!" (John 14:6)

Because Jesus -- the son of man is the Lord of glory, which is why He also said, "I and My Father are One!" (John 10:30)

Therefore, take heed unto yourselves, and to all the flock, over the which the Holy Ghost hath made you overseers, to feed the church of God, WHICH HE HATH PURCHASED WITH HIS OWN BLOOD. (Acts 20:28)

Stand in the offering plate.

God Is Not The Author Of Confusion, But Rather The Way, The Truth, And The Life Forevermore - Part 1853

Christ is the Head of every man. 

"For a man ought not to cover his head (veiled), forasmuch as he is the image and glory of God." (I Corinthians 11:7) 

Man represents the likeness, image and supremacy of God. Every man praying, prophesying or preaching with his head covered dishonours his head. He disgraces his head. He dishonours Him who is his head. In fact, the scriptures, "Does not even nature itself teach us that if a man has long hair, it is a shame to him?"

This is a natural irreversible principle illustrated by natural law to all generations, that it is degrading for a man to wear long hair. Nature simply teaches by illustration making a man to have thinning hair or he simply goes bald. On the other hand, every woman who prays or prophesies with her head uncovered dishonours her head. This instruction (elaborated on by apostle Paul) is evidenced in that Eve was from Adam -- to be loved of him and to be cared for by him, inasmuch as she is a helpmate.

Both together then ought to function as one flesh. A woman’s long hair by nature is a glory to her. Nature provided a covering of long hair which is a glory to her. There is no need to cover her natural covering with another material covering unless her hair has been shorn. Then she ought to materially cover her short hair. And, for further confirmation, Paul writes that a woman has angels upon her head -- a topic certainly worthy of exploration, but for another day.

The point is this. These ordinances are delivered to us so that we, both male and female can respond by saying. "Be it so done in me according to Your Word, O Lord." 

Still, we observe that the aforementioned ordinances are discarded by most today. However, by mankind’s non-compliance, the Word of God is not rendered irrelevant. Each person will still stand before his or her Creator and give an account to Him as to their stance. For as the scriptures state, "Let God be true and every man a liar," -- and likewise, all those who oppose these truths bear their own burden. This is not intended to be legalistic, as some might claim, but to understand that the Lord Himself is showing us a better way, a more abundant way of life, when we desire His instruction and guidance. 

Thus, as we see herein, God has sent His Word for the healing and restoration of a fallen race. As such, His Word is coming to you so that you can decide whether to follow the Lord God Almighty (His Name JESUS in this current dispensation of grace) with all your heart, soul, mind, and strength. (Mark 12:29-31; Deuteronomy 6:4) 

And for clarification, the first commandment also states, "Hear O Israel the Lord thy God is ONE LORD!" (Deuteronomy 6:4; Ephesians 4:5-6)

Hopefully, this short presentation enlightens all of us to understand that God is a God of order. We might say there is a pecking order which, when maintained as God’s plan, we the created, now redeemed children of God, can willingly bow the knee to our great God who is one Spirit. The Spirit of the Holy One. God is the master mind, and He has made Himself known in created form as Jesus. His only begotten Son (not Begat, Begotten) of the Holy Ghost. He purchased us at Calvary redeeming us, by and through the sacrifice of Himself. Once and only once was He sacrificed. ONLY ONCE. We are complete in Him! (Hebrews 9:8, 15-18)

We have also read that the Spirit of God is the Head of the man Christ Jesus (I must be about My Father’s business). And Christ is the head of man (if any man be in Christ Jesus he is a new creation). And man is the head of the woman (Adam was first formed then Eve). All of these things originate from the same Spirit of the Lord God who moved across the face of the waters in the very beginning.

And this same Lord God has a plan to fulfill in your life. Reach out and desire His ways, His instruction, His guidance, for He never fails. Indeed, Jesus said, "I will never leave nor forsake you." Good counsel and indeed God counsel. Let the Word of God dwell within your heart. Study to show thyself approved unto God, as doth a workman, so that ye too can rightly divide the Word for your edification and learning. (II Timothy 2:15)

Stand in the offering plate.

Seeing Then That We Have Such Hope; The Lord Is That Spirit And Where The Spirit Of The Lord Is, There Is Liberty - Part 1852

"But this shall be the covenant that I will make with the house of Israel; After those days," saith the LORD, "I will put My law in their inward parts, and write it in their hearts; and will be their God, and they shall be My people." (Jeremiah 31:20, 33)

Apostle Paul was asking the question of the believing saints in Corinth. That is, "Do we begin again to commend ourselves? or need we, as some others, epistles of commendation to you, or letters of commendation from you?" (I Corinthians 3:1-2) Because, for Paul, "ye are our epistle written in our hearts, known and read of all men."

You see, like the woman Jesus describes in Luke 15, who had ten pieces of silver and lost one, and then swept the house to find it, we similarly are missing a piece of the puzzle -- a piece that can only be filled when we ask the Lord Jesus Christ into our hearts, and are baptized in His Name. (Acts 2:36-41)

If I can backtrack for a moment, we have all sinned and fallen short of the glory of God. This is a consequence of Adam and Eve's transgression in the Garden of Eden. However, the Lord God had a plan of salvation to redeem His people -- all those who come unto Him and allow Him to become King of kings and Lord of lords in their heart. In this dispensation of grace, God's Name is JESUS, for He shall save His people from their sins. (Matthew 1:21-23) 

Neither is there any other name whereby we must be saved. (Acts 4:12) The Name which is above every other Name, including all of the names which God referred to Himself in the Old Testament. (Philippians 2:9) This is why we are instructed to do every thing that we do, in the Name of the Lord Jesus Christ. Healing, salvation, water baptism, discerning, ministering and indeed, every single thing we do. We are called to pray without ceasing, and rejoice evermore, lifting up our King and blessed Potentate in our hearts forevermore. 

"Which in His times He shall shew, who is the blessed and only Potentate, the King of kings, and Lord of lords ... " (I Timothy 6:15)

Our hope then is that the Spirit of Truth -- the Spirit of Jesus Christ -- the Holy Ghost in these last times can dwell within, and lead us and guide us and instruct us in the way in which we should go. If you have not already asked Jesus into your heart, today is the day. This is the day of salvation for your soul to be redeemed, and revived to the purpose that you were intended to fulfill, from the moment you were conceived in your mother's womb. In fact, Jesus is standing at the door of your heart right now, inviting you to come into His fold, wherein you can drink of the living water that He gives, and ever thirst again.

Jesus said, "Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that hears My Word, and believes on Him that sent Me, hath everlasting life, and shall not come into condemnation; but is passed from death unto life." (John 5:24)

This is why Jesus could say, "I am the Way, the Truth and the Life. No man comes to the Father but by Me!" (John 14:6) Because after Jesus was taken up, He THROUGH the Holy Ghost gave commandments unto the apostles whom He had chosen. (Acts 1:2) There is a reason the scriptures refer to the Holy Ghost 80 plus times in the New Testament side, because the resurrected Jesus has now returned to His rightful place -- as the Lord God Almighty, our Saviour. But I digress.

Returning again to Paul's writings, he writes: "Forasmuch as ye are manifestly declared to be the epistle of Christ ministered by us, written not with ink, but with the Spirit of the living God; not in tables of stone, but in fleshy tables of the heart, and such trust have we through Christ to God-ward: not that we are sufficient of ourselves to think anything as of ourselves; but our sufficiency is of God; who also hath made us able ministers of the new testament; not of the letter, but of the Spirit: for the letter kills, but the Spirit gives life." (I Corinthians 3:3-6)

We who believe recognize this to be true, for many have read the scriptures without understanding, in much the same way as the scribes and Pharisees and lawyers (in the time that Jesus walked this earth) were blinded to His truth. Jesus said to them that they would not come unto Him and receive the Word because their hearts were full of their own worldly wisdom, and dare I say, self-righteousness.

In this context, Jesus said unto them, "Woe unto you, lawyers! for ye have taken away the key of knowledge: ye entered not in yourselves, and them that were entering in ye hindered." (Luke 11:52)

And He did so in order that we would understand the abundance of grace that He will bestow upon those who desire to be His people -- a chosen people, a royal generation. It is for this reason that we are privileged beyond measure, because we have seen and can behold the manifestation of the Lord of glory, who willingly and personally fulfilled His own plan of salvation on that cross. For this reason, we have hope and joy, and also the key of knowledge -- because the Lord Jesus dwells within.  He was wounded for our transgressions. He was bruised for our iniquities. How I am sure He grieved over the appointed time when He would take our place on that cross -- inviting us to behold Him -- the Lamb of God. 

But, as Paul points out, "if the ministration of death, written and engraven in stones, was glorious, so that the children of Israel could not steadfastly behold the face of Moses for the glory of his countenance; which glory was to be done away: how shall not the ministration of the Spirit be rather glorious? For if the ministration of condemnation be glory, much more doth the ministration of righteousness exceed in glory. For even that which was made glorious had no glory in this respect, by reason of the glory that excels. For if that which is done away 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 3:1-18)

Stand in the offering plate.

For We Which Live Are Alway Delivered Unto Death For Jesus' Sake, That the Life Also Of Jesus Might Be Made Manifest In Our Mortal Flesh - Part 1851

"Do we begin again to commend ourselves? or need we, as some others, epistles of commendation to you, or letters of commendation from you? Ye are our epistle written in our hearts, known and read of all men. Forasmuch as ye are manifestly declared to be the epistle of Christ ministered by us, written not with ink, but with the Spirit of the living God; not in tables of stone, but in fleshy tables of the heart.

And such trust have we through Christ to God-ward: not that we are sufficient of ourselves to think any thing as of ourselves; but our sufficiency is of God; who also hath made us able ministers of the new testament; not of the letter, but of the Spirit: for the letter kills, but the Spirit gives life." (II Corinthians 3:1-18)

Throughout the ministry of Jesus on earth, we see the people pressing upon Him to hear the Word of God. In one place, Jesus stood by the lake of Gennesaret, and saw two ships standing by the lake, but the fishermen were gone out of them to wash nets. Jesus enters into Simon's ship and prayed him that he would thrust a little from the land. Therein, Jesus sat down and taught the people out of the ship. Now when He had stopped speaking, Jesus said unto Simon, "Launch out into the deep, and let down your nests for a draught."

But Simon said to Him, "Master, we have toiled all the night and have taken notion; nevertheless, at Thy Word I will let down the net." (Luke 5:1-5)

How many of us would have stopped there, telling Jesus that we have already tried, but to no avail? Sadly, too many of us stop just short of the miracle. We put our hand to the plow in anticipation of the blessing, but when we don't right away receive, we turn away. Thankfully, this example of Simon should teach us to remain steadfast in the work that we are performing for the Lord.

That is, when Simon went out and dropped the nets, "they inclosed [caught] a great multitude of fishes; and their net break." So much so, that the had to beckon unto their partners, which were in the other ship, that they should come and help them. And they came, and filled both the ships, so that they began to sink. When Simon Peter saw, he fell down at Jesus' knees, saying, "Depart from me; for I am a sinful man, O Lord." For he was astonished, and all they that were with him, at the draught of the fishes which they had taken.

I am sure it must have been quite the sight. With Simon was also James and John, the sons of Zebedee, which were partners with Simon. But Jesus said unto Simon, "Fear not; from henceforth thou shall catch men." And when they had brought their ships to land, they forsook all and followed Jesus." (Luke 5:9-11)

Each and every one of us has been called from that "someplace" wherein we toil in the things of this earth, but to no avail. And sometimes, like Simon, we consider that moment to be an ideal time to wash our nets. But Jesus has a higher purpose for those who love Him with all their heart, soul, mind and strength. His purpose having been placed in our heart whilst we were still in our mother's womb. However, like Simon, we need to respond to Jesus' call. We need to lift the Name of the Lord Jesus in everything we do (in both word and deed) so that He can be our sustenance and life.

Therefore, as apostle Paul points out, "seeing we have this ministry, as we have received mercy, we faint not, but have renounced the hidden things of dishonesty, not walking in craftiness, nor handling the Word of God deceitfully, but by manifestation of the truth commending ourselves to every man's conscience in the sight of God. But if our gospel be hid, it is hid to them that are lost; in whom the god of their world hath blinded the minds of them which believe not, lest the light of the glorious gospel of Christ, who is the image of God should shine unto them ... for we preach not ourselves but Christ Jesus the Lord; and ourselves your servants for Jesus' sake ..

For God who commanded the light to shine out of darkness, hath shined in our hearts, to give the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ." (III Corinthians 4:1-6)

This is why we have this treasure in earthen vessels that the excellency of the power may be of God and not of us. And as a consequence, we need to step into the leading and instruction of the Holy Ghost -- the Spirit of the Lord Jesus within us.

Stand in the offering plate.

But Christ Being Come An High Priest Of Good Things To Come, By A Greater And More Perfect Tabernacle, Having Obtained Eternal Redemption For You and I - Part 1850

"How much more shall the blood of Christ, who though the eternal Spirit offered Himself without spot to God, purger 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." (Hebrews 9:14-180

God who is now attired in a body of sin prone flesh went about delivering a message that the first Adam should have embraced. If Adam had embraced God’s words of instruction, then all of his descendants would have been spared tears, agonies, pains, sickness, and death. But man was in free fall. Not evolving. No sir. Man was descending into a pit. 

How can I say this? Because man was created by God for God. Therefore, in the same context, man without fellowship with God is empty, just like the earth was void of form before God took it upon Himself to furnish it. Indeed, pior to God stepping in to furnish the earth it is said that the earth was without form. In the beginning, Adam was alone in the garden. It was God who observed that Adam was lonely. It was also God who made a companion for Adam, a woman to dwell with him as a helpmate. The woman was made of his own flesh.

Just as it was in the beginning, God knows what we have need of even before we ask. Why? Because God is a good God. God is a merciful God. God is full of kindness and love for those who turn their heart to HIm. Delight in Him, and He will give you the desires of your heart. And this same God, after His kindness and love became our Saviour, shedding His holy blood on a cross for you and I.

And He has placed His purpose in our heart whilst we were still in our mother's womb. Yes, God has a plan for man. As the scriptures state, eye has not seen, neither has ear heard of the things that God has in store for those who love Him with all their heart, soul, mind, and strength. However, this also means we need to understand God's plan of salvation.

How from the very beginning, He had hidden the mystery of godliness in His bosom until the appointed time. Therein, we begin to understand that God (who is Spirit) descended into mans’ hopeless situation by preparing a natural body for Himself. This body was to be born of a young virgin girl named Mary, who was rejoicing in God her Saviour.

The life that was to indwell her ody was not a seed from Adam’s fallen sinful race. The reason for this is that Adam sinned. From this point on, we inherited his fallen nature. But the life that was to indwell in Mary's body was to be a life conceived by the holy Spirit of God. A spiritual life of God Himself as a Son. 

JESUS -- Emmanuel, being interpreted, God with us. (Matthew 1:18-23; Luke 1:35) He Himself appeared as a man for indeed He was a man in all respects. He was born as a man, and even though Luke identifies Jesus as a holy thing in the womb, He was still tempted as are we. 

Still, God was going to sacrifice His own sinless body on a cross so that we might have salvation in HIm. O, how He must have grieved from the very beginning, knowing that most would not respond to His everlasting love call. Even so, God knew that He was the ONLY ONE perfect enough to shed His precious holy blood on the cross, and to take on HIs body all of our sins. 

Thus, purchasing back to Himself His own creation as if they had never sinned. In other words, while one man’s sin condemned, another man’s righteousness redeems us. He is the Living Word wherein we can have the words of life because Jesus willingly sacrificed Himself for us. As a consequence, there is no more sacrifice for sin. Our debt has been paid in full. The Gift of God is eternal life.

"For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son that whosoever BELIEVES IN HIM should not perish but have everlasting life. (John 3:!6)

Harken unto His call on your life today. Read the book of Acts, and see how Jesus teachings were implemented into the society at large. Pray without ceasing. Study the Word to show yourself approved, as doth a workman unto God. Give Him all the praise and glory and honour. In this current dispensation of grace, His Name is JESUS, for He shall save His people from their sins. (Matthew 1:21-23)

The Word made flesh and dwelt among us so that we could and would behold His glory. (John 1:1-18)

Stand in the offering plate.

Blessed Be The Lord, O My Soul; His Mercy Endures Forever - Part 1849

"Let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of need." (Hebrews 4:16)

"O give thanks unto the Lord; for He is good: for His mercy endures for ever. O give thanks unto the God of gods: for His mercy endures for ever. O give thanks to the Lord of lords: for His mercy endures for ever. To Him who alone does great wonders: for His mercy endures for ever. To Him that by wisdom made the heavens: for His mercy endures for ever. To Him that stretched out the earth above the waters: for His mercy endures for ever. To Him that made great lights: for His mercy endures for ever. The sun to rule by day: for His mercy endures for ever: the moon and stars to rule by night: for His mercy endures for ever." (Psalms 136:1-9)

Within secular society, the Lord Jesus is continually being rejected as the absolute. He has already been rejected as the Lord God our Saviour, even though after His kindness and love, He toward man appeared. (Titus 3:4-7; I Timothy 3:16) Likewise, the same hearts that have (and still do) condemn Him will not accept the regenerated Jesus as King of kings and Lord of lords. (Revelation 1:8) Even when, as the psalmist David repeatedly points out, as we read in the psalm above, His mercy endures forever. 

The Word made flesh so that we as sinners needing His mercy would accept His invitation to become a member of His family -- the body of Christ church, wherein Jesus is the Head. This is why sinners repent of their sin, asking Jesus to be both Lord and Christ in their heart, and go on to be water baptized in His Name -- the Name of the Lord Jesus Christ. (Acts 2:36-38; Romans 6:3-4; I Peter 3:21-22; Acts 10:44-48)

This serves as our starting point for getting to know Jesus, and His abundant love for His precious beloved. He paid the price for our sins, so that we might have life. You see, in the Old Testament, those who believed did not have the Lord's grace and mercy, as we do in this current dispensation of grace. The Holy Ghost having not yet signified the new until the old was no longer standing. This is why born again believers do not mix the old wine with the new, because the wine flasks will break. Instead, what we do is pray without ceasing and rejoice evermore. We delve into the New Testament, asking the Lord Jesus to open our understanding by taking the blinders from our eyes, and our hearts.

I like to tell people to begin in John, because right from the beginning, John is revealing Jesus to us. He is the Word made flesh -- the same Word that spoke the world into existence in the beginning. He is the Light of this world. He is the Bread of life. He is the Way, the Truth, and the Life. 

And, as Jesus said, "I and My Father are One!" (John 10:30) 

Returning to David the psalmist, there is another psalm that may also speak to our heart as it does mine. There is also good instruction for those just beginning in this faith journey. Psalm 103 goes like this:

"Bless the LORD, O my soul: and all that is within me, [bless] His holy name. Bless the LORD, O my soul, and forget not all His benefits: who forgives all thine iniquities; who heals all thy diseases; who redeems thy life from destruction; who crowns  thee with loving kindness and tender mercies; who satisfies thy mouth with good [things; so that] thy youth is renewed like the eagle's.

The LORD executes righteousness and judgment for all that are oppressed. He made known His ways unto Moses, His acts unto the children of Israel. The LORD [is] merciful and gracious, slow to anger, and plenteous in mercy. He will not always chide: neither will He keep [His anger] for ever.

He hath not dealt with us after our sins; nor rewarded us according to our iniquities. For as the heaven is high above the earth, [so] great is His mercy toward them that fear Him. As far as the east is from the west, [so] far hath He removed our transgressions from us. Like as a father pitieth [his] children, [so] the LORD pity's them that fear Him. For He knows our frame; He remembers that we [are] dust.

[As for] man, his days [are] as grass: as a flower of the field, so he flourishes. For the wind passes over it, and it is gone; and the place thereof shall know it no more. But the mercy of the LORD [is] from everlasting to everlasting upon them that fear Him, and His righteousness unto children's children; to such as keep His covenant, and to those that remember His commandments to do them.

The LORD hath prepared His throne in the heavens; and His kingdom rules.over all. Bless the LORD, ye His angels, that excel in strength, that do His commandments, hearkening unto the voice of His word. Bless ye the LORD, all [ye] His hosts; [ye] ministers of His, that do His pleasure. Bless the LORD, all his works in all places of His dominion: bless the LORD, O my soul." (Psalm 103:1-22)

When the Holy Ghost overshadowed Mary so that she could bring forth a son, God became our Father, and because of His abundant mercy He hath begotten us again unto a lively hope by the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead. (I Peter 1:3)

And he that hath the Son hath the Father also. The Son of man is the Lord of glory. The first Adam earthy, but the second, the Lord from heaven. He was in the world and the world was made by Him and the world knew Him not. Jesus was the promised Lord's Christ. Jesus was the prophesied Messiah. 

And now, we know JESUS to be the ONLY NAME whereby we must be saved in this current dispensation of grace. (Acts 4:12; Philippians 2:9) 

Therefore, delight thyself in the Lord; and He shall give thee the desires of thine heart. Delight thyself in His abundant mercy. Let your cup overflow with His joy when you understand that He Himself is the greatest love story ever told. One Lord, One Faith, One Baptism. 

Stand in the offering plate.

I Thank Thee, O Father, Lord Of Heaven And Earth, Because Thou Hast Hid These Things From The Wise And Prudent, And Hast Revealed Them Unto Babes- Part 1848

At that time Jesus answered and said, "I thank Thee, O Father, Lord of heaven and earth, because Thou hast hid these things from the wise and prudent, and hast revealed them unto babes. Even so, Father: for so it seemed good in Thy sight. All things are delivered unto Me of My Father: and no man knows the Son, but the Father; neither knows any man the Father, save the Son, and he to whomsoever the Son will reveal Him." (Matthew 11:27-28)

"Ye CALL ME MASTER AND LORD: and ye SAY WELL; FOR I AM. Now I tell you before it come, that, when it is come to pass, ye may believe that I AM (He). VERILY, VERILY, I say unto you, He that receives whomsoever I SEND RECEIVES ME; and HE THAT RECEIVES ME RECEIVES HIM THAT SENT ME." (John 13:13)

This is why Jesus could say, "Come unto Me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you, and learn of Me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For My yoke is easy, and My burden is light" (Matthew 11:29-30)

 Because ALL AUTHORITY in both heaven and earth belonged to Him -- JESUS -- for He shall save His people from their sins. And Jesus came and spake unto them, saying, "All power is given unto Me in heaven and in earth." (Matthew 28:18) In this current dispensation of grace, and as the angel of the Lord proclaimed, JESUS is His Name. (Matthew 28:18; Matthew 1:18-23) Emmanuel, being interpreted, God with us! He is both Lord and Christ. (Acts 2:36) God, our Saviour, the Word made flesh dwelt among us. (John 1:1-18; Titus 3:4-7) 

And, as John the baptizer pointed out, "Behold, the Lamb of God!"

"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)

Note that the Name of JESUS was not assigned to the "holy thing" by Mary or Joseph. (Luke 1:35; Matthew 1:18-23) Rather, the angel of the Lord declared His name to Joseph. Thus, as we now know, there is no other name whereby we must be saved. (Acts 4:12) There is also no other name above the Name of JESUS. (Philippians 2:9) 

And His Name, as Jesus said when He thanked Thee, O Father, (His humanity speaking). who He Himself identifies as Lord of heaven and earth, has been hidden from the wise and prudent. 

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

The good news is that this same JESUS knows His people by name. He has called and ordained us into His body of Christ church. He calls us to a higher purpose, to be that city on a hill wherein He is the beacon of light in a very dark world. He has called us to be His chosen people. A royal generation. In fact, throughout history, there has always been a Light wherein the world is lit -- beyond the obvious sun and moon and stars that shine from the sky. 

In fact, from scripture we understand that our Lord God (who willingly became our Saviour) was continually showing His beloved creation -- you and I -- that He is the Light of this world. That He is the Bread of life. That He is the living water wherein we will never thirst again, if we would only come to Him -- the Lord Jesus -- and welcome Him as both Lord and Christ in our hearts. (Acts 2:36)

Yes, after the kindness and love of God our Saviour toward man appeared. (Titus 3:4-7) The greatest love story ever told, that the same God who made the heavens and the earth in the very beginning would also love us enough to shed His precious holy blood on a cross, so that you and I might have salvation. One Lord, One Faith, One Baptism. One God and Father of all, who is with you all and in you all. (Ephesians 4:5-6)

Or, as John explains, "In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. The same was in the beginning with God. All things were made by Him; and without Him was not any thing made that was made. In Him was life; and the life was the Light of men. And the Light shines in darkness; and the darkness comprehended it not." (John 1:1-4)

This is not a new phenomenon, for God always was the Light of this world. While He made two great lights; the greater light to rule the day, and the lesser light to rule the night, and the stars also, it wasn't to divert or sidetrack us from knowing Him in our day to day. Throughout history, He has continually shown those who seek Him that He is the only Way to abundant life. (Genesis 1:14-16)

In Exodus, "the Lord went before them by day in a pillar of a cloud, to lead them the way; and by night in a pillar of fire, to give them light; to go by day and night ..." (Exodus 13:21)

From Ezra, "And now for a little space grace hath been shewed from the Lord our God, to leave us a remnant to escape, and to give us a nail in His holy place, that our God may lighten our eyes, and give us a little reviving in our bondage." (Ezra 9:8)

And in Nehemiah, ""Moreover Thou leddest them in the day by a cloudy pillar; and in the night by a pillar of fire, to give them light in the way wherein they should go." (Nehemiah 9:12)

And there are those who Job describes as rejecting the Light of this world. "They are of those that rebel against the Light; they know not the ways thereof, nor abide in the paths thereof." (Job 24:13)

The psalmist David properly declared, "The Lord is my Light and my salvation; whom shall I fear? the Lord is the strength of my life; of whom shall I be afraid? " (Psalm 27:1) And so should we. "... for Thy Light is come, and the glory of the Lord is risen upon thee." (Isaiah 60:1)

And, in the new testament, Jesus did not hide His glory from those who seek Him with all their heart, soul, mind and strength. (Deuteronomy 5:4; Mark 12:29-31)

This is why Jesus said, "I am the Light of the world: he that follows Me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the Light of life." (Joh 8:12)

Moreover, in Revelation, John elaborates on His promise to His people, "And I saw a new heaven and a new earth: for the first heaven and the first earth were passed away; and there was no more sea." And I John saw the holy city, new Jerusalem, coming down from God out of heaven, prepared as a bride adorned for her husband. And I heard a great voice out of heaven saying, "Behold, the tabernacle of God is with men, and He will dwell with them, and they shall be His people, and God Himself shall be with them, and be their God.

And God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes; and there shall be no more death, neither sorrow, nor crying, neither shall there be any more pain: for the former things are passed away." And He that sat upon the throne said, "Behold, I make all things new." And He said unto me, "Write: for these words are true and faithful." And He said unto me, I"t is done. I am Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the end. I will give unto him that is athirst of the fountain of the water of life freely. He that overcomes shall inherit all things; and I will be his God, and he shall be My son." (Revelation 21:1-10, 22-23)

Yes, in this current dispensation of grace (the current time in which we live) JESUS is the Light of this world, and He wants to be the Light that shines from your heart. It is for this reason that today, He is reaching out to you, desiring to speak face to face with you, as He did Moses in the tabernacle, and Abraham in the doorway of the tent. Why? Because this is the purpose that we were all intended to achieve, that in Christ Jesus, we have His hope and joy and peace in our heart. 

And that, as a consequence, our cups running over, because of His love and mercy for you and I -- His beloved. Say yes to the Lord Jesus today, and come in to the fold, wherein the Shepherd stands waiting for your heart to respond to His everlasting love. In fact, this is the day of salvation. This is the day wherein the Lord God Almighty wants to share His plan for your life with you, leading and guiding you into His wisdom and truth. The Comforter who clearly stated (while walking this earth), "I will never leave you nor forsake you!" 

Indeed, Jesus said, "I am the Way, the Truth, and the Life" which is why no man can come to the Father but by Him. (John 14:6-12) 

Therefore, as Jesus pointed out while on earth, "let your Light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven." (Matthew 5:16)

And someday very soon, our Lord God and Saviour is returning to this earth to gather unto Himself His people. We need to be prepared for that day when He comes with clouds, "and every eye shall see Him, and they also which pierced Him: and all kindreds of the earth shall wail because of Him. Even so, Amen. "I am Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the ending," saith the Lord, "which is, and which was, and which is to come, the Almighty." (Revelation 1:7-8)

"Looking for that blessed hope, and the glorious appearing of the great God and our Saviour Jesus Christ; who gave Himself for us, that He might redeem us from all iniquity, and purify unto Himself a peculiar people, zealous of good works." (Titus 2:13-14)

Stand in the offering plate. 

After Jesus Ascended Upon High, He Gave Gifts To Believers, Severally As He Will - Part 1847

In the scriptures, apostle Paul repeatedly states that he would not have us ignorant. To ensure that we understand the goodness and mercy of our Lord God and Saviour Jesus the Christ, Paul would often rely on his own personal experiences to encourage us. Paul did the same when he instructed us concerning spiritual gifts. Paul admits that while we were Gentiles we were carried away unto these dumb idols, but now, wherein Paul gives us to understand, that no man speaking by the Spirit of God will call Jesus accursed.

By the same token, Paul states that no man can say that Jesus is the Lord, but by the Holy Ghost, because one has to first believe that Jesus is indeed Lord (and Christ) in their heart, before those words can be uttered. Just as the first 3,000 souls saved on the day of Pentecost believed, when they gladly received the Word. (Acts 2:36-47)

When it comes to the gifts of the Holy Ghost, Paul tells us that even with the diversities of gifts, the differences of administrations, and the diversities of operations, it is the same Spirit, the same Lord, the same God which works all in all. One Spirit which is given to every man to profit withal. (I Corinthians 12:1-7) The one and same holy Spirit of Jesus that imparts them all. 

As background, it is important to note that these Spirit gifts are given for the application of various ministries within Jesus' own body. The body or church is the temple and habitation of the Spirit of Jesus. For those of you who are new to the gospel, there is only one body and there is only one Spirit. And, it is the same Christ in God who achieves His purposes through them all.

Therefore, each believer who is born again of God, (born of water and of spirit) becomes a living member of the temple of God. In this new capacity, believers become functioning members in the body of Christ, wherein Jesus as both Lord and Christ, is the Head of the body of Christ church. 
Moreover, in learning from the Word of God (studying to show ourselves approved unto God, as doth a workman) believers in Jesus by faith become adequately equipped, desiring to put on the whole armour of God. (Ephesians 6:10-18)

Herein, we become equals in the body of Christ, desiring to serve one another, so that no one is without. To that end, we strive also to become a flow through for the love of our Lord God in everything we do, in both word or deed. Not our intellect (as the world claims as the key to success) but rather our hearts reaching out to others because of Jesus' love in our hearts. Because He willingly shed His blood for our sins, even whilst we were still His enemies, we begin to understand the price that was paid once and for all, so that we might experience salvation.

But our Lord God, having walked on this earth knows the struggles that we will have, when Jesus is our Saviour. Indeed, Jesus told us that we would experience tribulation and persecution because these hated Jesus first. This is why spiritual gifts are so critical to our faith journey, because these help us to serve willingly all of those within the body of Christ.

This is why there are diversities of gifts, and differences of administrations, and diversities of operations. The administrations and operations are often overlooked when counting the spiritual gifts but that will be a topic for a different day. For now, let's examine the nine spiritual gifts most referred to by religious circles. From I Corinthians 12:

"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 diverse kinds of tongues; to another the interpretation of tongues: but all these work that one and the selfsame Spirit, dividing to every man severally as He will." (I Corinthians 12:8-11)

Simplified -- to one is given by the holy Spirit of Jesus the ability to speak wisdom. To another is given by the holy Spirit of Jesus the power to express knowledge. To another is given by the same holy Spirit of Jesus, special faith. To another is given by the same holy Spirit of Jesus, the gift of healing. To another is given by the same holy Spirit of Jesus, the power to work miracles. To another is given by the same holy Spirit of Jesus, prophetic insight. To another is given by the same holy Spirit of Jesus the power to discern between true spirits and false spirits. To another is given by the same holy Spirit of Jesus, the ability to speak in languages that he never formally learned. These tongues of men and of angels, both unknown or unheard of. To another given by the same holy Spirit of Jesus is the capacity to interpret languages spoken through the gift of spiritual tongues.

[As an aside, note that when we repent, and are water baptized in the precious Name of the Lord Jesus Christ, we receive the gift of the Holy Ghost -- His Spirit within.]

But I digress. Continuing, these nine gifts are the gifts of the Spirit of Jesus given for the edification of His own body (HIS TEMPLE). Jesus empowering each member and Jesus apportioning to each believer as He chooses and wills. Or, as the scriptures state, giving "severally as He will." For there is only one body. 

But within the body, there are many organs that work together in unity. In the same fashion, we are members of the body of Christ. We were all brought into that one body by water baptism in Jesus name and by the purifying baptism of His holy Spirit. We have all been added to His body, which is the body of the Christ. Because we are all members of Jesus' body, we all drink the same drink, and we all eat the same meat. And we do so in one accord.

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

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

And if they were all one member, where were the body? But now are they many members, yet but one body. And the eye cannot say unto the hand, "I have no need of thee: nor again the head to the feet, I have no need of you." Nay, much more those members of the body, which seem to be more feeble, are necessary. And those members of the body, which we think to be less honourable, upon these we bestow more abundant honour; and our uncomely parts have more abundant comeliness. For our comely parts have no need: but God hath tempered the body together, having given more abundant honour to that part which lacked ... that there should be no schism in the body; but that the members should have the same care one for another.

And [therefore, when] one member suffers all the members suffer with it; or one member be honoured, all the members rejoice with it." (I Corinthians 12:12 -26) But apostle Paul does not stop there. He continues, saying,

"Now ye are the body of Christ, and members in particular. And God hath set some in the church, first apostles, secondarily prophets, thirdly teachers, after that miracles, then gifts of healings, helps, governments, diversities of tongues." Are all apostles? are all prophets? are all teachers? are all workers of miracles? Have all the gifts of healing? do all speak with tongues? do all interpret? But covet earnestly the best gifts: and yet shew I unto you a more excellent way." (I Corinthians 12:27-31)

In other words, as you grow in your relationship with the Lord Jesus, studying His Word for your own learning and understanding, He will give you the gifts that you will need to endure the hardships and toils of this world -- severally as He will. In this context, you will be instructed to put on the whole armour of God, so that when the wiles of the enemy come in like a flood, the Lord can lift up a standard against it. And in the same way, He parted the waters for the Israelites, He will pave the way for you to be victorious too (in Him) our Lord God and Saviour Jesus the Christ.

Step into your intended calling. Covet the best gifts, but be aware of a more excellent way -- charity, wherein we can become the blessing we were intended to be to those around us. Stand in the offering plate.

Jesus Said, "My Yoke Is Easy, And My Burden Is Light ... Come Unto Me, All Ye that Labour And Are Heavy Laden, And I Will Give You Rest!" - Part 1846

Jesus said, "Come unto Me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you, and learn of Me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For My yoke is easy, and My burden is light." (Matthew 11:29-30)

Note that just prior to this, Jesus is responding to two disciples of John the baptizer who was (at that time) in jail. During this time, Jesus is preaching and teaching to the multitudes in the cities. Indeed, Jesus answers and said unto the two disciples, "Go and shew John again those things which ye do hear and see. The blind receive their sight, and the lame walk, the lepers are cleansed, and the deaf hear, the dead are raised up, and the poor have the gospel preached to them. And blessed is he, whosoever shall not be offended in Me." (Matthew 11:1-6)

Herein, Jesus is citing prophecy from the Old Testament, so that John would recognize (without Jesus actually saying it) that He is the promised Messiah.

So, after these two leave to go to tell John what Jesus has said, Jesus then turns to those multitudes of people who have been following Him. At this point in the dialogue, Jesus has begun to upbraid the cities wherein most of His mighty works were done, because they, as the scripture has said, have repented not. Can we then conclude that these were not interested in following Jesus in their hearts, seeking only the benefits from Jesus that will enhance their own self interests here on earth? The scripture here does not actually say this but we can learn a similar lesson from the feeding of the five thousand, wherein, the people returned to Jesus the second day, because these were hungry. But I digress somewhat.

Jesus then asks the people, regarding John the baptizer, "What went ye out into the wilderness to see? A reed shaken with the wind? But what went ye out for to see? A man clothed in soft raiment? Behold, they that wear soft clothing are in kings' houses. But what went ye out for to see? A prophet? Yea, I say unto you, and more than a prophet. For this is he, of whom it is written, "Behold, I send My messenger before thy face, which shall prepare Thy way before thee." (Matthew 11:9-10)

[John the baptizer was the one prophesied in Malachi, the last book of the Old Testament, destined to prepare the way for Jesus!]

Jesus continues, saying, "Verily I say unto you, Among them that are born of women there hath not risen a greater than John the baptist: notwithstanding he that is least in the kingdom of heaven is greater than he. And from the days of John the Baptist until now the kingdom of heaven suffereth violence, and the violent take it by force. For all the prophets and the law prophesied until John. And if ye will receive it, this is Elias, which was for to come. He that hath ears to hear, let him hear." (Matthew 11:11-15)

A couple of points worth noting here. Jesus was reminding them of their motives -- that if they were following Him to serve their own self-interests, or to reap the benefits that the Lord gives is not sufficient for entering into the kingdom. There has to be a heart response, wherein we follow Jesus with all our heart, soul, mind and strength, and a heart desire to serve Him with everything we have -- doing everything in word or deed in the precious Name of the Lord Jesus Christ.

But there is a secondary message here as well. John the baptizer was in jail because he told the truth to the powers that be, and those particular hearts that heard him were not willing to listen. Thus, John was put in jail. In much the same fashion, we should care enough about our fellow man to tell them also the truth from the Word, regardless of the consequences. This includes not wavering in the Word, or compromising, but rather standing up for truth -- this same truth wherein Jesus said, "Thy Word is truth." (John 17:17)

In fact, Jesus said, "I am the Way, the Truth, and the Life. No man comes unto the Father but by Me." (John 14:6) In that example, Jesus goes on to tell Philip and the other disciples that if ye have seen Jesus, ye have seen the Father also. Instead of elaborating on this now, I encourage one and all to read John 14, and also John 10:30, wherein Jesus states, "I and My Father are One!"

A third point worth noting here is Jesus' specific words about John -- that John was "more than a prophet." That indeed John was the greatest of prophets. That the law and the prophets were UNTIL John. This means, as Jesus stated, that John was the turning point between the covenant of law and this current dispensation of grace, wherein, the dayspring from on high hath visited His people. To clarify, John was not the expected or prophesied King/Messiah. That title, Emmanuel, being interpreted as "God with us" was intended for Jesus -- the absolute -- because through Jesus (God manifest in the flesh) the veil that kept us from God (because of our sins) was torn from heaven to earth.

The Son of man being the Lord of glory. (Matthew 12:8; Luke 19:10) The first Adam earthly but the second Adam the Lord from heaven. This is an important concept to understand, because there is only one absolute and His Name is JESUS.

Remember Matthew 25:31-46, wherein Jesus states, "When the Son of man shall come in His glory, and all the holy angels with Him, then shall He sit upon the throne of His glory!" (Matthew 25:31) Jesus -- Alpha and Omega, the first and the last, the beginning and the ending! The King of kings and Lord of lords. (Revelation 1:8)

Continuing, Jesus asks, "But whereunto shall I liken this generation? It is like unto children sitting in the markets, and calling unto their fellows, and saying, "We have piped unto you, and ye have not danced; we have mourned unto you, and ye have not lamented. For John came neither eating nor drinking, and they say, "he hath a devil." [Conversely,] the Son of man came eating and drinking, and they say, "Behold a man gluttonous, and a winebibber, a friend of publicans and sinners." BUT wisdom is justified of her children." (Matthew 11:9-17)

Those who know the truth of their Lord God and Saviour Jesus the Christ also know that the truth will set them free. That as believers in Jesus by faith, and obeying His Word, we are sanctified by truth. (John 17:17) "The Lord God, merciful and gracious, long suffering, [being] abundant in goodness and truth ..." (Exodus 34:6) From our perspective, our hearts reaching to our Lord God, saying, "Lead me in Thy truth, and teach me: for Thou art the God of my salvation; on Thee do I wait all the day." (Psalm 25:5)

Does this mean our faith journey should be easy? Of course not. Like John the baptizer, we will be persecuted, and unjustly treated. Those who don't want to hear the good news gospel message will find reasons to reject you, simply because of Jesus within. And, as the hearts get harder, we may even be put to death for proclaiming the ONLY NAME under heaven whereby we must be saved. (Acts 4:12) The Name that is above every other name. (Philippians 2:9) The Name of JESUS, wherein every knee will bow and confess that He -- Jesus -- is Lord. 

Nevertheless, the Word is forever established in heaven. Thy Word is a lamp unto our feet, to lead and guide us into all truth. (Psalm 119:105)

This is why Jesus continued saying, "I thank Thee, O Father, Lord of heaven and earth, because Thou hast hid these things from the wise and prudent, and hast revealed them unto babes. Even so, Father: for so it seemed good in Thy sight. All things are delivered unto Me of My Father: and no man knows the Son, but the Father; neither knows any man the Father, save the Son, and he to whomsoever the Son will reveal Him. (Matthew 11:25-30)

Yes, as John proclaimed when he saw Jesus coming in the distance -- "Behold the Lamb of God.!" 

For "He shall cover thee with His feathers, and under His wings shalt thou trust: His truth shall be thy shield and buckler." (Psalm 91:4)

Stand in the offering plate.

Thy Word Forever Established In Heaven Is Is A Lamp Unto My Feet - Part 1845

"And He shewed me a pure river of water of life, clear as crystal, proceeding out of the throne of God and of the Lamb. In the midst of the street of it, and on either side of the river, was there the tree of life, which bare twelve manner of fruits, and yielded her fruit every month: and the leaves of the tree were for the healing of the nations. And there shall be no more curse: but the throne of God and of the Lamb shall be in it; and His servants shall serve Him. And they shall see His face; and His Name shall be in their foreheads. And there shall be no night there; and they need no candle, neither light of the sun; for the Lord God giveth them light: and they shall reign for ever and ever." (Revelation 22:1-5)

In the New Testament, there are two names and a variety of titles that refer to Jesus. Of the two names, one is a "given" name. The other declares who Jesus was. That is, Immanuel - which interpreted declares that Jesus is God with us! (Matthew 1:18-23) This is why we can attest to the early church receiving the Word of God directly from the mouth of God Himself -- Jesus. Because Jesus was declared to be God manifest in the flesh as a Son. (I Timothy 3:16; Isaiah 9:6)

Indeed, Jesus was the life Seed of the Holy Ghost conceived into the womb of a surrogate mother named Mary. The early believers in the church did not simply repeat Jesus' words but rather focused on Jesus. These believers proclaimed Jesus to the multitudes whilst at the same time endeavouring to digest all of the gospel that they had both seen and heard. Like John the baptizer, they proclaimed that the Lord of Glory visited man. The dayspring from on high hath visited His people. Behold, the the Lamb of God.

In this context, the given name of Jesus was the embodiment of all titles and prophecies that had forgone His incarnation in flesh. No, not just any name. Rather, a Name which is above every other name that is in Heaven and earth. (Acts 4:12; Philippians 2:9) For the name of Jesus is a name that is all powerful.

The scriptures tell us also that "EVERY knee shall bow to the name of JESUS."

But not only will each and every one of us bow before Jesus but we will all likewise declare that JESUS is LORD. That this same JESUS whom ye have crucified in our hearts is BOTH LORD AND CHRIST. (Acts 2:36)  Jesus having said, "I am the root and the offspring of David, and the bright and morning star." (Revelation 22:16; Acts 2:1-47)

Further, JESUS declared to His disciples that if they ask His Father for anything in His name - the name of JESUS He will give it to them. Therefore, the name of JESUS is not just a sequence of identifying symbols. No sir! JESUS' Word was -- and is -- with power. JESUS' speech was not a rehearsed sermon for unlike the religious folk of the day, He did not speak like the scribes and Pharisees.

We know then from His Word, the scriptures, that the name of JESUS is the ONLY name whereby anyone can be saved. (Acts 4:12) But the Word is more than this. The name of JESUS being a name is not a concoction of inserted vowels or a translated name. No. The name of JESUS is given of GOD. In this sense, God did not consult with man before the name of JESUS was given. (Matthew 1:18-23; Luke 1:35)

Indeed, it is no accident that we are instructed to do everything that we do -- in both word and deed -- in the Name of the Lord Jesus. Neither is it an accident that the scriptures tell us that we become clothed in His righteousness when we repent, and are water baptized in the precious Name of the Lord Jesus, because then we come to the knowledge of Him, and how much He loved His people to include the cross, and His shedding of blood -- the perfect sacrifice, the Lamb of God, on the cross.

He ushered in the New Testament, after the Holy Ghost signified that this was the time. (Hebrews 9:8; Hebrews 9:15-18)

Jesus laid down His life for us, so that we through His sacrificial offering of His own flesh could be saved, obtaining redemption for our sins. Thus, because of His sacrifice, we can now approach His throne of grace with boldness because through JESUS all accusatory judgments of sin are dismissed. Our transgressions which were as red as crimson, because of Jesus sacrifice on the cross, wherein He paid the price for our sins once and for all, has made us white as snow. How blessed we are to know that He has given us abundant life, when we turn to our Lord God and Saviour Jesus the Christ in our hearts. But I digress.

Up until His sacrificial death at Calvary, Jesus was declared to be‘God with us.' Now God has provided in the sacrifice of Himself a means whereby He is no longer ‘God with us’ but instead ‘God IN us.'

The only place that God does not occupy is in a man’s heart. He knocks at your heart’s door waiting for you and I to respond to His love. Therefore, let JESUS the LORD GOD who loves you dearly enter into your life today. This is the message that the believers in the early church went everywhere preaching -- JESUS. They were not interested in substituting another name for they received their salvation from the one whose given name was JESUS.

Why? Because the apostles had tasted the water of life (the Holy Ghost) because they asked JESUS for life. He [JESUS] gave them to drink. Now in JESUS they are springing up in the grace of God and knowledge of Him who was in the man JESUS! They called on the "given" name -- the name of the LORD JESUS!

Don't let those who refuse to read their Bible -- His Word -- lead you astray. Instead, remember that Thy Word is truth, and we are sanctified by Thy Word. (John 17:17) And that, "Thy Word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path." (Psalm 119:105)

Stand in the offering plate.