For Who Is God Save The Lord? Or Who Is A Rock Save Our God? - Part 2115

Jesus said, "And whoso shall receive one such little child in My name receives Me." (Matthew 18:5; Mark 9:37; Luke 9:48)

Jesus said, "For whosoever shall give you a cup of water to drink in My name, because ye belong to Christ, verily I say unto you, he shall not lose his reward." (Mark 9:41)

Jesus said, "And these signs shall follow them that believe: In My name shall they cast out devils; they shall speak with new tongues; they shall take up serpents; and if they drink any deadly thing, it shall not hurt them; they shall lay hands on the sick, and they shall recover." (Mark 16:17; John 14:14)

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

Jesus said, "For many shall come in My name, saying, "I am Christ; and shall deceive many." (Matthew 24:5; Mark 13:6; Luke 21:8; John 5:43)

Jesus said, "But before all these, they shall lay their hands on you, and persecute you, delivering you up to the synagogues, and into prisons, being brought before kings and rulers for My name’s sake." (Luke 21:12)

Jesus answered them, "I told you, and ye believed not: the works that I do in my Father’s name, they bear witness of Me." (John 10:25)

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

As David the psalmist wrote, "The Lord [is] my Rock, and my Fortress, and my Deliverer; my God, my Strength, in whom I will trust; my buckler, and the horn of my salvation, and my high tower." (Psalm 18:2) On the New Testament side (after Jesus shed His precious, holy blood on the cross so that we might obtain salvation) Thomas said (after putting His hand in Jesus' side) -- "my Lord and my God!

You see, the apostles who had walked with Jesus on this earth for three plus years knew whom Jesus was -- after the cross. The apostles had finally understood what Jesus was telling them when He said, "I and My Father are One!" and that if ye have seen Me, ye have seen the Father. (John 10:30; John 14:6)

That is, there is no other God but the Lord, and no other Lord but God. As the first commandment clearly states (in both the old and the new) -- "Hear O Israel the Lord thy God is One Lord!" (Deuteronomy 6:4; Mark 12:29-31)

And for clarity, I Timothy 3:16 states, "And without controversy great is the mystery of godliness: God was manifest in the flesh, justified in the Spirit, seen of angels, preached unto the Gentiles, believed on in the world, received up into glory."

So where is the confusion regarding the Godhead? Why does modern day religion present God as a triad, or a trinity, a triune god, or God in three persons? My response? Because these do not understand how much the same Lord God who created you and I in the very beginning loved His beloved creation. Or studied the scriptures and found that "after the kindness and love of God our Saviour toward man appeared ..." (Titus 3:4-7) 

That this same Spirit of the Lord God who moved upon the face of the waters in Genesis is the same Spirit of the Lord God -- the Holy Ghost -- that fills our hearts and person (our very essence) after we repent and are water baptized in His precious Name -- JESUS! (Acts 2:36-41; Genesis 1:2)

These do not understand that the Holy Ghost this signified that " that the way into the holiest of all was NOT YET made manifest, while as the first tabernacle was yet standing ..." (Hebrews 9:8) And that on an appointed day, the Lord God would announce -- "This day have I begotten Thee!" (Psalms 2:7; Acts 13:33; Hebrews 1:5) And at that point, God would become a Father and He (His humanity -- God manifest in the flesh) as a Son. It had to be this way for had the spirit of this world known that Jesus was God clothed in flesh, he would never have allowed for Jesus to be crucified on a cross.

" ... which none of the princes of this world knew: for had they known [it], they would not have crucified the Lord of glory." (I Corinthians 2:8)

You see, the first man Adam was earthy, but the second, the Lord from heaven. Not a separate God or another like God but the Lord God Himself robed in flesh. The Word made flesh and dwelt among us. He was in the world and the world was made by Him and the world knew Him not. (John 1:10-11, 14)

This is why Jesus could say, "And whatsoever ye shall ask in My name, that will I do, that the Father may be glorified in the Son." (John 14:13)

What is His Name? As the angel of the Lord declared, "And ye shall call His Name JESUS for He shall save His people from their sins ... Emmanuel, being interpreted, God with us!" (Matthew 1:21-23)

And after He (Jesus) was taken up, He {Jesus) THROUGH the Holy Ghost gave commandments unto the apostles whom He had chosen. (Acts 1:2-3) No longer in the flesh, He was restored to the heavenly wherein He had been before. But His Name -- the Name that had been declared before the world -- the Name of JESUS was the one and only name that was given whereby we must be saved. (Acts 4:12) The name that is above every other name -- Jesus. (Philippians 2:9) This is why God magnified "Thy Word" above every other name that He had used throughout the old covenant. But He did so, giving sufficient evidence that He was the same I AM of the old.

As David the psalmist said, "I will worship toward Thy holy temple, and praise Thy name for thy loving kindness and for Thy truth: for Thou hast magnified Thy Word above all Thy name." (Psalm 138:2)

But the man Christ Jesus -- the flesh and humanity of God -- had to die in order for us to obtain salvation. The veil had to be torn for us to be reconciled with a holy God. The ordinances of old had to be patterned. (Hebrews 9:1-13)

So "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?" (Hebrews 9:14)

This is why a purchase had to be made. A perfect sacrifice wherein precious, holy blood had to be shed. But in this case, God didn't send another (as the world would have us believe) but rather Himself as an only begotten Son. But God could not die so the flesh had to give up the ghost on the cross wherein He said, "It is finished!" (John 19:30)

A plan of salvation established so that we might have abundant life in Him. For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son that whosoever believes in HIM would not perish but have everlasting life, and our joy full! (John 3:16; John 16:24)

This is why Jesus said, "But the Comforter, [which is] the Holy Ghost, whom the Father will send in My name, He shall teach you all things, and bring all things to your remembrance, whatsoever I have said unto you." (John 14:26; John 15:26)

Jesus said, "I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world. Amen." (Matthew 28:20)

His Name is JESUS -- in Him we have come to personally know God our Saviour. In Him dwelt all the fullness of the Godhead bodily. (Colossians 2:9)

This is why we "declare Thy name unto my brethren, in the midst of the church will I sing praise unto Thee." (Hebrews 2:12)

Stand in the offering plate.

Jesus Said, "But I Know Him For I AM From Him, And He Hath Sent Me. - Part 2114

"Forasmuch then as Christ hath suffered for us in the flesh, arm yourselves likewise with the same mind: for he that hath suffered in the flesh hath ceased from sin; that he no longer should live the rest of his time in the flesh to the lusts of men, but to the will of God. For the time past of our life may suffice us to have wrought the will of the Gentiles, when we walked in lasciviousness, lusts, excess of wine, revellings, banquetings, and abominable idolatries: wherein they think it strange that ye run not with them to the same excess of riot, speaking evil of you: who shall give account to Him that is ready to judge the quick and the dead." (I Peter 4:1-5)

"And He commanded us to preach unto the people, and to testify that it is He which was ordained of God [to be] the Judge of quick and dead." (Acts 10:42)

Throughout the New Testament, we understand that the Name whereby we must be saved is JESUS, for He shall save His people from their sins. (Acts 4:12; Matthew 1:21-23) The Name above every other name that God gave afore to His people in the old covenant. Why is this important to understand? Because there is only One God, and we are to love this One and Same God with all our heart, soul, mind and strength. (Deuteronomy 6:4; Mark 12:29-31) 

Indeed, hear O Israel the Lord thy God is One Lord. And no, this One Lord God is not divided into three persons, as the modern day religious culture would have us believe. This One God is not a triad or triune god or a trinity but the One and Only God who loved us so much that He Himself became flesh and dwelt among us. He robed Himself in sin-prone flesh (yet without sin) so that we might have abundant life in Him.

For God so loved the world. (John 3:16) 

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

Jesus said, "I AM the bread of life: he that comes to Me shall never hunger; and he that believes on Me shall never thirst." (John 6:35)

Jesus said, "But I know Him: for I AM from Him, and He hath sent Me." (John 7:29)

This is why Jesus said, "Before Abraham was, I AM." For Jesus is the I AM in whom the fullness of the Godhead dwelt bodily. His Name -- the ONLY Name whereby we must be saved. (Acts 2:36-41) Please don't let anyone tell you otherwise. Rather, seek Jesus who is the Way, the Truth, and the Life. (John 14:6) For in Him alone can salvation be found. 

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

For this cause was the gospel preached, that God in all things may be glorified through Jesus Christ, to whom be praise and dominion forever and ever amen. Stand in the offering plate. 

JESUS -- The Name Above Every Other Name Given From The Beginning Of Time -- Part 2113

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

Then Peter said unto them, "Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the Name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost. For the promise is unto you, and to your children, and to all that are afar off, even as many as the Lord our God shall call." And with many other words did he testify and exhort, saying, "Save yourselves from this untoward generation." Then they that gladly received His Word were baptized: and the same day there were added unto them about three thousand souls." (Acts 2:36-41)

This marks the beginning of the new testament church -- the dispensation of grace wherein we currently live. The "beginning from the baptism of John, unto that same day that He was taken up from us, must one be ordained to be a witness with us of His resurrection." (Acts 1:22) The beginning when the Holy Ghost thus signified -- " that the way into the holiest of all was not yet made manifest, while as the first tabernacle was yet standing." (Hebrews 9:8)

This occurred when the dayspring from on high decided to visit and redeem His beloved. Yes, Jesus was God manifest in the flesh, the visible image of the unseen God. All the fullness of the Godhead dwelt bodily within Him. He was in the world and the world was made by Him and the world knew Him not. He came unto His own but His own received Him not. (John 1:10-11; Colossians 2:9; Hebrews 1:1-12; I Timothy 3:16; Acts 20:28) 

And it was He who gave us the keys to the kingdom so that we might know His kindness and mercy beyond measure. His abundance of love that surpasses all human understanding -- so that we too can become overcomers through Him -- because we did not waver on His Word, and neither did we who believe deny His Name. (Revelation 3:8-9)

Sadly, however, there are far too many modern day churches that do not understand the Godhead, or His  salvation plan that was decided from the beginning of the world, and this is why our world is in such a mess -- because we want to deny the very Lord God who gave us His Name in this current dispensation of grace -- so that we could be saved. A Name that is higher than any other name and the ONLY name whereby we must be saved. (Acts 4:12; Philippians 2:9)

What is His Name? JESUS, for He shall save His people from their sins. JESUS, who loved us so much that He gave Himself -- His humanity -- so that we might have abundant life in Him. He is the King of kings and Lord of lords. (Revelation 1:8) 

It is for this reason that when we repent, asking this same Jesus whom we have also crucified to become both Lord and Christ in our hearts, we go on to be water baptized in the precious, holy Name of the Lord Jesus. (Acts 2:36-41) 

The King of kings and Lord of lords. As the first commandment states, "Hear O Israel the Lord thy God is One Lord." (Deuteronomy 6:4; Mark 12:29-31) 

Indeed, "there is none other name under heaven above, given among men, whereby we MUST BE SAVED." (Acts 4:12)

Don't be deceived by those who deny His Name. Stand in the offering plate.

Jesus Said, "In My Name!" So What Is His Name? - Part 2112

"But as many as received Him, to them gave He power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on His Name: which were born, not of blood, nor of the will of the flesh, nor of the will of man, but of God." (John 1:12-13)

Who is the Him that we are to receive, who gives us power to become the sons and daughters of God -- those who believe on His Name? JESUS -- Alpha and Omega, the first and the last, the beginning and the ending, the King of kings and Lord of lords. It is this precious, holy Name JESUS that saves us from our sins and washes us clean.

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

Emmanuel, being interpreted God with us. This explains why Jesus could speak unto them, saying, "All power is given unto Me in heaven and in earth." (Matthew 28:18) And this same Jesus had the keys to the kingdom. (Matthew 16:18) While on earth, God robed Himself in sin-prone flesh (yet without sin) and gave us a Name -- a name above every other name; a name whereby we must be saved. (Acts 4:12; Philippians 2:9) A name wherein we must find salvation in this current dispensation of grace.

Why? Because the doctrine of Christ insists that whosoever transgresses, and abides not in the doctrine of Christ, hath not God. But "he that abides in the doctrine of Christ, he hath both the Father and the Son." (II John 1:8; Hebrews 6:1-2)

This is why we who believe "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." (Acts 20:28) Because Jesus was God manifest in the flesh. (I Timothy 3:16)

All the fullness of the Godhead dwelt bodily in Him. (Colossians 2:9)

Why is this critical to understand? Because unless we believe in Jesus, we will never find salvation. For as Jesus said, "I AM the Way, the Truth, and the Life. No man comes unto the Father but by Me!" (John 14:6) And as His disciples learned from Jesus -- "If ye have seen Me, ye have seen the Father!" (John 14:7-12)

So why are we then so willing to risk our own salvation for a God divided into three, as the modern day religious community would have us believe? And that teaching -- God in three "persons" -- as if God isn't Almighty and forevermore -- the I AM which was, and is, and is to come. Sadly, when Jesus instructs us to come out from her My people, and to come out from among them, it is so we will come to know the truth that can only be found "in My Name" -- saith Jesus, the Son of man who is now the Lord of glory.

He is the Great I AM of the old. As Jesus declared, "Before Abraham was, I AM." And when Jesus (the humanity of God) was taken up, He through the Holy Ghost gave commandments to the apostles whom He had chosen. (Acts 1:8) He returned to the heavenly from whence He had come, and He is coming back to retrieve unto Himself those who believed His Word and did not deny His Name -- the Name of JESUS. (Revelation 3:8-9)

After the kindness and love of God our Saviour toward man appeared. (Titus 3:4-7) And His mercies still abound for those who look to our Lord God and Saviour Jesus the Christ for their daily sustenance. And that same God who indwelt Jesus the Christ wants to fill our hearts with His joy and peace this day. If you haven't already, ask Jesus to be both Lord and Christ in your heart today, and then be water baptized in His Name -- in the Name of the Lord Jesus Christ -- so that you can be filled with His Spirit -- the Holy Ghost too. (Acts 2:36-41)

Stand in the offering plate.

Separating the Wheat From the Tares - Part 2111

"O Lord our Lord, how excellent is Thy Name in all the earth! who hast set Thy glory above the heavens." (Psalms 8:1)

Jesus said, "I know thy works: behold, I have set before thee an open door, and no man can shut it: for thou hast a little strength, and hast kept My word, and hast not denied My Name. Behold, I will make them of the synagogue of satan, which say they are Jews, and are not, but do lie; behold, I will make them to come and worship before thy feet, and to know that I have loved thee." (Revelation 3:8-9)

Consider this. If we were to go back to the grass roots of our faith and remove all of the Biblical foundations that form our beliefs and values, we could readily accept the false imaginations and idolatry of others (that is flaunted as truth) -- and sadly, we would not know the difference. Thankfully, for those who believe, we have gained an understanding that Jesus is the I AM -- The Way, The Truth, The Life.

Why is this important? Because the foundation has been laid -- and Christ Jesus is the chief cornerstone. Indeed, there is no other name whereby we must be saved. (Acts 4:12) And His Name -- the precious, holy Name of Jesus is above every other name that God has given to us in the past. As David the psalmist declared, "I will worship toward Thy holy temple, and praise Thy name for Thy loving kindness and for Thy truth: for Thou hast magnified Thy Word above all Thy Name." (Psalm 138:2)

For clarity, who is the Word? As John reveals in his writings, "In the beginning was the Word and the Word was with God and the Word was God ... and the Word was made flesh and dwelt among us (and we beheld His glory) ...." (John 1:1-14)

So, why then do many believers who have come to enjoy and experience God's freedom (at the encouragement of certain individuals) later become subject and confined to the law -- the old covenant ordinances that were of the old. To offer some insight into an answer, it could be because young Christian believers are not yet aware of what is recorded in the scriptures concerning the law, and get caught up in the religious traditions of men.

To that end, let's review this particular point.

The scriptures declare that Abraham had two sons. The first son was born of a slave girl named Hagar. The second son was born of Abraham's wife Sarah, and as such, presented as being a free woman. The child of the slave girl was born in the ordinary course of nature. However, the second son born of the free woman was the child born in fulfillment of the promise. God's promise. Of course, all of this is allegorical, for these two women represent the two covenants.

The first covenant was given from Mount Sinai and represented by Hagar. The children born thereafter, being brought up under the confines and dictates of Sinai law, are born into the bondage of slavery. The law. Note that the word Hagar in Arabia stands for Mount Sinai, and is representative of the earthly Jerusalem which like Hagar was in bondage together with her children.

Conversely, Jerusalem which is above (that beautiful city of God) is free and the mother of us all. If you are struggling here, you might want to go back to earlier blogs where the discussion focuses on the generational history of the promised Seed of the Christ. This will allow you some time to reflect and digest the scriptures before proceeding.

Remember, as you read the scriptures, living under the law was not always the case. God made them male and female - as one man and one woman - so that they could fellowship and converse freely with God.

As we move on, we know that Sarah was barren and without children. That is, until God stepped in. That is until Heaven came down so that His glory could fill our soul. Of course, God stepped in at the appointed time which is important to remember. As the Author of salvation, it was God that opened Sarah's womb. In so doing, He brought the prophetic scripture from the back burner to the front burner. The scriptures state, "Rejoice, O barren woman who never bore a child. Break into a shout of joy, you who have never known a mother's birth pangs. For she, the deserted wife shall have more children than she who lives with the husband."

Like Isaac then, the good news is that we also are children born in the fulfillment of promise. Abraham's son by Hagar may have pursued his fleshly desires, and likewise persecuted Isaac but it does not negate the fact that Isaac was the son of promise born by the power of the Spirit. The difficulty is that this understanding from the scriptures raises questions today.

Still, regardless of what people might say, the scriptures remain true. And herein, Jesus is the absolute.

So what do the scriptures state concerning this ongoing conflict? First, drive out the slave girl (Hagar the law) along with her son. The scriptures state this, not because Hagar is being condemned or discriminated against but rather because God was making it clear that neither Hagar or the offspring would share in the inheritance bequeathed to the Son born of the free woman. The child of promise into which the Seed of promise was to be lodged, and continually progressed through the generations that would follow.

As we learn from the scriptures, that promise would continue until the fullness of time in God's clock, at which time the Holy Ghost would bring His own two seeds of promise (male and female seed) together in the womb of the surrogate mother Mary. So, you see believers, that we are not the slave woman’s child. Rather, we are of the free woman.

So it is in this context that we are no longer subject to the law. The scriptures state that Christ has set us free. Therefore, stand fast in your freedom, and do not become entangled in that yoke of bondage. You are not under law. Christ has taken care of the law by burying it deep in the precious holy blood He shed. The same God who dwelt on earth as a son ... it is His sacrificial death that has made captivity captive.

Remember too, that you have been bought with a hefty price and therefore we ought to glorify God in our mortal bodies. Which, by the way has now made us members of the body of Jesus the Christ. The bone of His bone and flesh of His flesh. Blood, Water, Spirit. Refresh ourselves with the assurance that you and I can walk in the glorious liberty as the sons of God. For he who has been set free by the Son of God (God Himself as a Son) has been set free for eternity. Free indeed.

Welcome to the new covenant. Stand in the offering plate.

Be Silent Before The Lord, For He Is Raised Up Out Of His Holy Habitation - Part 2110

And He answered and spake unto those that stood before Him, saying, “Take away the filthy garments from him.” And unto him He said, “Behold, I had caused thine iniquity to pass from thee, and I will clothe thee with change of raiment.” (Zechariah 3:6)

“In that day,” saith the Lord of hosts, “I will remove the iniquity of that land in one day.” (Zechariah 3:10)

“And many nations shall be joined to the Lord in that day, and shall be My people: and I will dwell in the midst of thee, and thou shalt know the Lord of hosts hath sent Me unto thee. And the Lord shall inherit Judah, His portion in the holy land and shall choose Jerusalem again.” (Zechariah 2:11-12)

Through prophecy, we who believe in the Lord Jesus by faith are able to understand how the scriptures are inextricably intertwined with current world events. Of course, these prophecies are not intended to enlighten us so that we end up putting off a decision to trust in the Lord with all our heart, soul, mind and strength but rather, so that we can be assured of the times and the seasons in which we live. 

To this end, the priority is always to be assured of our personal salvation first and foremost — as the Lord hath said, “Today is the day of salvation!” — and then subsequently, to learn of the Lord’s wisdom and knowledge so that we could fulfill the purpose He placed in our hearts whilst we were still in our mother’s womb. 

And now, in this current dispensation of grace, we know that after the kindness and love of God our Saviour toward man appeared, He has made a way to clothe us with change of raiment. A means wherein He — God Himself — could tear the veil that kept us from Him from top to bottom — from heaven to earth — so that we could be cleansed in Him.

His Name? JESUS, for He shall save His people from their sins. A people who were not originally HIs people but were invited into the fold when the Holy Ghost (that hath made us overseers to feed the church of God) — “which He hath purchased with His own blood.” (Acts 20:28) 

When we understand who God is, and are witnesses of the sufferings of Christ, we also become partakers of the glory that shall be revealed. (I Peter 5:1)

In whom we have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of sins, according to the riches of His grace, wherein He hath abounded toward us in all wisdom and prudence, having made known unto us the mystery of His will, according to His good pleasure, which He hath purposed in Himself, that in the dispensation of the fullness of times, He might gather together in one all things in Christ, both which are in heaven and which are on earth — [even] in Him.” (Ephesians 1:7-10)

“To the praise of the glory of His grace, wherein He hath made us accepted in the beloved …. in whom also we have obtained an inheritance, being predestinated according to the purpose of Him who works all things after the counsel of His own will.” (Ephesians 1:6, 11) 

This is why we cease not to give thanks for His goodness and mercy and love for without that sacrifice of His shed blood on the cross, we would never have been able to enter into His presence. Take hold of the good news gospel message this day, that can only be found in Christ Jesus, who willingly endured the cross so that we could become His beloved, His chosen.

Again, who is this He? As Jesus said, “I AM the Way, the Truth and the Life!” (John 14:6) And as Peter standing with the eleven on the day of Pentecost further clarified, “This same Jesus whom ye have crucified is both Lord and Christ!” (Acts 2:36-41)

Make Jesus your all in all today. You will not be disappointed in declaring Jesus your Majesty in your heart. Stand in the offering plate. 

Say The Truth In Christ; Our Conscience Also Bearing Witness In The Holy Ghost - Part 2109

"For this is the Word of promise ..." (Romans 9:9)

Before being introduced to faith, we were in many ways imprisoned under the law. In bondage from the truth, captivated by a world brightly lit and yet underneath those lights a society in disarray. Indeed, in this realm, one could suggest we were incapable of escaping -- as if there were no plan of escape. Conversely, even if there was such a plan, what would we be escaping too? As the cliche suggests, it's difficult to have a battle of wits with an unarmed man, particularly if that man had never been introduced to faith and/or the Lord's love, mercy or kindness. Thus, like so many aspects of life, for those things which I do not know, I need an instructor.

So, while we may have read of Abraham's faith, we were incapable of grasping the full meaning. We needed to have our understanding opened and the meaning expanded upon. Who would open the cell doors of our mind? Well, definitely none of our cell mates, for they also were wallowing in the mire of sin, imprisoned by the law of sin and death, and held hostage without a key.

But as we who believe has come to realize, God works in mysterious ways! The scriptures ask, "Who hath known the mind of the Lord? Who was His counsellor?" So, in the beginning days, after Adam sinned, the law had become our custodian. The law was like a strict governess in charge of us. That is, until we looked beyond our hopeless predicament and called in our hearts for a deliverer.

In this capacity, God was and still is the only hope for us. Out of our hopelessness we looked up with expectancy. It was here that faith was seeded in men’s heart. So, by our imprisonment we were taught the defined meaning of the tree of knowledge of good and evil. And the incurred wages, we swallowed it hook, line, and sinker. In other words, we dug our own hole, a hole so deep that we could not climb out of it.

Like the simple analogy of the man and woman walking at night and falling into a deep hole. They were unable to scale the walls of earth so they did what most people would do. They started calling for help. Along came a priest (it could be a rabbi too) who, upon hearing the yells of distress, ventures over to the hole. When he sees the man and woman in the hole, he starts praying but then walks away.

The man starts calling again and this time a doctor hears the cry. He approaches the hole and seeing the situation, takes a note pad from his pocket and writes the two a prescription. He throws the prescription into the hole and then turns around and walks away.

In many ways, this resembles society today - the 'powers that be' may be in power but they do not have the solution. Still, the two people stuck in the hole start yelling louder than before. Surely, there must be some intelligent  and compassionate life up there who will help us get out of this predicament. Just then, a friend just happens to be taking an evening stroll when he hears the distressed call. He approaches the hole, peruses the situation and immediately jumps into the hole.  Wow! The man and woman in the hole start thinking, "Well, that was not too smart!"

Here we are, with nothing but a prayer and a prescription and you decide to join us too! Well, the friend smilingly says,  “Only believe. I know the way out." I can help you get out of this mess.

The reality is this. The world does not have the answer. When no one else could help, His love, the love of Jesus, lifted me. Hear the good news song.

He came to me. I could not go to where He was so He instead came to us. And all we have to do  is believe in Him by faith -- the Lord of Glory. The King of kings. The Great I AM. Alpha and Omega, the first and the last, the beginning and the ending.. Thus, the message here is to step out in faith and trust the Lord with all your heart, soul, mind and strength. Cast all your cares and concerns upon Him. Why? Because He cares for you. Let me say that again --- He really cares for you.

So, in terms of covenants (the old and new) you are not under law. You are under the dispensation of grace, whereby the Lord has declared peace and goodwill to all. Indeed, Glory to God in the highest!

This explains why when you believe, you are under the new testament -- the covenant of grace -- grace that is given and yet unmerited. While the law was given through angels to Moses, note that God's plan of salvation, grace and truth came to us through Jesus the Christ. Personally delivered to you and me. Jesus said to call upon Him and He -- "I shall deliver you."

My kinsmen according to the flesh. Faith in Jesus is the victory that can overcome the world. Read Acts 2:36-47 today and understand the peace and joy that will fill your heart if you would only ask Jesus to be both Lord and Christ in your heart. God manifest in the flesh. Now that is love!

Stand in the offering plate.

Behold the Lamb of God, Our Blessed Saviour Jesus The Promised Christ - Part 2108

Be Thou my vision.

Paul, an apostle of Jesus the Christ expressed his vision. That is, he desired to know only Jesus the Christ and Him crucified. Great is that mystery, saith the scriptures. Why does God love us this way? Because nothing shall separate us from God's everlasting love that, at the end of the day, will never let us go. Think on these things!

Peter, an apostle of Jesus the Christ was so anointed with the oil of the Spirit of Jesus that when he was walking along the streets, his very shadow falling upon the sick quickened their physical bodies so that they were instantly healed. Now that is a real walk in clinic if we think of the healing in today's terms. No wonder Paul wanted to know more about Jesus and to stay focused on Jesus who has all power in heaven and on earth.

Indeed, the Word of God is so powerful in individual lives that the anointed Word of God wants to, but cannot. Why not? Simply because unbelief abounds. Still, Jesus wants to deliver you from your burdens. Your deliverance, and my deliverance have already been taken care of. The price has been paid in full. However, someone hindered the truth of what Jesus really accomplished at Calvary, preventing us from obtaining our share in the Last Will of God in Christ!

That is, the ultimate gift of salvation. Not because you or I have done anything deserving of deliverance because we did not. This is why He died at Calvary. We could not go to where He was, so instead He came to us. The first man, Adam - earthy, but the second, the Lord from heaven. The Lord of glory -- the dayspring from on high stopping everything to visit His people.

But as we now know, God was not just dropping in for a visit. Oh no. Rather, He purposely appeared to straighten out our backward thinking as to who God is, so God who is Spirit appeared in form as one of us. His intent was to bring the light of God into a misled satanically deceived world. This world that has afflicted and caused men, women, boys and girls to endure unimaginable pain and suffering.

At the same time, we recall from the scriptures that Pilate washed his hands of the whole matter and blamed God! He did this knowing that God is good. Jesus -- God Himself veiled in flesh demonstrated His willingness and His goodness upon earth whilst He walked among us as a Son! Jesus did not pass by on the other side of the road. And He still doesn't pass by on the other side of the road today. No. When one responds to God’s love, His invitation to experience His mercy and kindness, we become acquainted with the Author and Finisher of all living things.

Why does this matter? Because there is no hesitation on God’s part to withhold any good thing from those who have set their heart and mind upon Him. He is our all in all -- Alpha and Omega, the first and the last, the beginning and the ending. But I digress somewhat.

Those living in this present (modern day) God rejecting system of error has an opportunity to put God to the test. God said, "Try Me and see. " Indeed, taste and see that the Lord is good. That His supply of peace and joy surpasses all human understanding, and is everlasting. As we know, that willingness takes faith.

Still, while doubters and pessimists are everywhere, remember that God not only made you but that God loves you too. Plus God can heal you. Plus God can willingly provides for our day to day.  In fact, God can do more than you or I can possibly think. How do we know this? Because nothing is impossible with God.

Starting today then, call on the precious, holy Name of the Lord! Yes, the same God who laid down His life for us as a man so that we could have salvation -- that can only be found in Him, In His Name.

When you stop to think about it, we really are not worth very much. Still, God had a purpose for each and every one of us! Therefore, to the same God who loved and gave Himself for us, be thankful and rejoice evermore ... for Jesus loves you more than His own life! This is why you are so precious in God’s eyes, and because He is God, He wants you to desire Him.

Remember too that the gift of salvation is not about religion. We are talking about you beginning a personal relationship with your Creator, Saviour and Forever Friend! Trust that you can go directly to Him. Just talk to Him as a friend. His Name is JESUS -- the only name whereby we must be saved. (Acts 4:12; Philippians 2:9)

Yes, Jesus knows all about you. Now it is your turn to respond to Jesus. ALL YOU NEED IS LOVE! Love is all you need -- God’s love is a true love. He is our source of sustenance and life. Let your cups runneth over. Likewise, be in awe, and just marvel at the goodness and mercy of our Lord God and Saviour.

Stand in the offering plate!

Bless The Lord O My Soul; O Lord my God; Thou Art Very Great - Part 2107

"Bless the Lord, O my soul. O Lord my God, Thou art very great; Thou art clothed with honour and majesty." (Psalm 104:1) 

When I read this scripture, it reminded me of Thomas (aka doubting Thomas) who would not believe that the disciples had seen the risen Jesus. Indeed, Thomas said that unless he himself saw Jesus nail scarred hands and the wound in His side, he would not believe that Jesus was alive. Thus, when Jesus did appear to Thomas, and Thomas knew Jesus to be his Lord and Saviour, Thomas said to Jesus, "my Lord and my God!" 

O Lord my God; Thou art very great! Because as David the psalmist declares, the same Lord God who laid the foundations of the earth, and stretches out the heavens like a curtain -- His glory endures forever. This is why we who believe desire to sing unto the Lord as long as we live, and to sing praises to our God while we have our being here on earth. Indeed, our mediation of Him shall be sweet, and we will be glad in Him.

But there is so much more. From Psalm 104, for your edification and learning: 

"Who covers Thyself with light as with a garment: who stretches out the heavens like a curtain: who lays the beams of His chambers in the waters: who makes the clouds His chariot: who walks upon the wings of the wind: who makes His angels spirits; His ministers a flaming fire: who laid the foundations of the earth, that it should not be removed for ever.

Thou covers it with the deep as with a garment: the waters stood above the mountains. At Thy rebuke they fled; at the voice of Thy thunder they hasted away. They go up by the mountains; they go down by the valleys unto the place which Thou hast founded for them. Thou hast set a bound that they may not pass over; that they turn not again to cover the earth.

He sends the springs into the valleys, which run among the hills. They give drink to every beast of the field: the wild asses quench their thirst. By them shall the fowls of the heaven have their habitation,
which sing among the branches. He waters the hills from His chambers: the earth is satisfied with the fruit of Thy works. He causes the grass to grow for the cattle, and herb for the service of man: that He may bring forth food out of the earth; and wine that makes glad the heart of man, and oil to make his face to shine, and bread which strengthens man’s heart.

The trees of the Lord are full of sap; the cedars of Lebanon, which He hath planted here the birds make their nests; as for the stork, the fir trees are her house. The high hills are a refuge for the wild goats; and the rocks for the conies. He appointed the moon for seasons: the sun knows His going down. Thou make darkness, and it is night, wherein all the beasts of the forest do creep forth. The young lions roar after their prey, and seek their meat from God. The sun arises, they gather themselves together, and lay them down in their dens. Man goes forth unto his work and to his labour until the evening.

But the Lord? "O Lord, how manifold are Thy works, in wisdom hast Thou made them all; the earth is full of Thy riches. So is this great and wide sea, wherein are things creeping innumerable, both small and great beasts. There go the ships: there is that leviathan, whom Thou hast made to play therein. These wait all upon Thee; that Thou may give [them] their meat in due season. [That] Thou gives them they gather; Thou opens Thine hand, they are filled with good. Thou hides Thy face, they are troubled; Thou takes away their breath, they die, and return to their dust. Thou send forth Thy Spirit, they are created, and Thou renew the face of the earth.

The glory of the Lord shall endure for ever:the Lord shall rejoice in His works. He looks on the earth, and it trembles. He touches the hills, and they smoke. [Nevertheless,] I will sing unto the Lord as long as I live: I will sing praise to my God while I have my being. My meditation of Him shall be sweet: I will be glad in the Lord. Let the sinners be consumed out of the earth, and let the wicked be no more.

Bless Thou the Lord, O my soul. Praise ye the Lord." (Psalm 104:1-35)

Stand in the offering plate.

Feeding In the Strength Of The Lord, In the Majesty Of The Name Of The Lord His God - Part 2106

"And he shall stand and feed in the strength of the Lord, in the Majesty of the Name of the Lord His God; and they shall abide: for now shall He be great unto the ends of the earth." (Micah 5:4)

Micah the Morasthite, a prophet in the days of kings Jotham, Ahaz, and Hezekiah (kings of Judah) upon receiving the Word of the Lord emphasized the transgression of Jacob and how the wound that is incurable has come into this place.  Indeed, the Lord saith, "Hear, all ye people, hearken, O earth, and all that therein is: and let the Lord God be witness against you, the Lord from His holy temple. For, behold, the Lord comes forth out of His place, and will come down, and tread upon the high places of the earth. And the mountains shall be molten under Him, and the valleys shall be cleft, as wax before the fire, and as the waters that are poured down a steep place." (Micah 1:1-4)

On the New Testament side, we now know that the Lord has come forth out of His place -- the first man Adam, earthy; and the second, the Lord from Heaven. The Lord now having come forth as a mighty man -- the everlasting Father, the Prince of Peace. (Isaiah 42:13; Isaiah 9:6) God manifest in the flesh and dwelling among us. (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; John 1:1-18) 

His Name JESUS -- as declared by the angel of the Lord -- and He shall save His people from their sins. (Matthew 1:21-23) 

Similarly, the prophet Isaiah reminds us that the LORD said beforehand that He would do a new thing in this current dispensation of grace. Indeed, the Lord saith, "Remember ye not the former things, neither consider the things of old. Behold, I will do a NEW thing; now it shall spring forth; shall ye not know it? I will even make a way in the wilderness, and rivers in the desert. The beast of the field shall honour Me, the dragons and the owls: because I give waters in the wilderness, and rivers in the desert, to give drink to My people, My chosen. This people have I formed for Myself; they shall show forth My praise." (Isaiah 43:10-21)

This chosen people of the Lord, showing forth praise, abiding in the Majesty of the Name of the Lord God, and so privileged to know the end from the beginning -- that He shall be Great unto the ends of the earth. 

As Jesus said when He walked this earth, "I am come a Light into the world, that whosoever believes on Me should not abide in darkness." (John 12:46) And in another place, Jesus says, "I AM the Bread of Life!" (John 6:33, 35, 48, 51)

Further, as the Lord God hath declared, when we worship Him, He provides for us (as He does for the beasts of the field and the dragons and owls) and gives us water in the wilderness and rivers in the desert, providing drink for His people -- similar to the manna from heaven to the Israelites of old.

Sadly, however, what we are witnessing today is that fewer and fewer professing believers are relying on the Lord Jesus for their day to day sustenance. Instead, as a collective, many faith organizations have allowed the "incurable" to come into the very places of worship -- the idols, the witchcraft, the graven images, the spiritual exercises and programs that are not mindful of the kindness and mercy of our Lord God our Saviour. (Titus 3:4-7) And by extension, our hearts far too often willing to accept these forms of idolatry in our midst instead of coming out from among them, as the Lord hath said. 

"Having a form of godliness, but denying the power thereof" of which the Lord has also instructed, "from such turn away." (II Timothy 3:5) 

"Wherefore come out from among them, and be ye separate," saith the Lord, "and touch not the unclean thing; and I will receive you ... " (II Corinthians 6:17)

Indeed, the Lord's long suffering for His beloved people has been evident from the beginning -- always willing to extend His love and mercy and kindness who turn their hearts unto Him. But instead, the Lord is left asking, "O ye sons of men, how long will ye turn My glory into shame? How long will ye love vanity, and seek after leasing?" (Psalms 4:2)

It does not have to be this way. "Turn ye unto Me," saith the Lord of hosts, "and I will turn unto you," saith the Lord of hosts." (Zechariah 1:3) 

"Turn you to the strong hold, ye prisoners of hope: even today do I declare that I will render double unto thee ..." (Zechariah 9:12)

"At that time will I bring you again, even in the time that I gather you: for I will make you a Name and a praise among all people of the earth, when I turn back your captivity before your eyes," saith the Lord. (Zephaniah 3:20)

"For then will I turn to the people a pure language, that they may all call upon the Name of the Lord, to serve Him with one consent." (Zephaniah 3:9)

Yes, how often the Lord would have gathered us like hens gather their flock, if we who believe would only ask Him to establish our steps ... our comings and goings. In fact, Jesus said, "O Jerusalem, Jerusalem, thou that kills the prophets, and stones them which are sent unto thee, how often would I have gathered thy children together, even as a hen gathers her chickens under her wings, and ye would not!" (Matthew 23:37)

If only we would listen to His calling. But because we have not turned our hearts to the Lord, there is a thus, a but and a therefore that is to come, because we have chosen not to feed in the strength of the Lord and the Majesty of His precious, holy Name!

Thus, saith the Lord of hosts -- "I will come near to you to judgment; and I will be a swift witness against the sorcerers, and against the adulterers, and against false swearers, and against those that oppress the hireling in his wages, the widow, and the fatherless, and that turn aside the stranger from his right, and fear not Me," saith the Lord of hosts. (Malachi 3:5)

But because "they will not frame their doings to turn unto their God: for the spirit of whoredoms is in the midst of them" the Lord declares that "they have not known the Lord." (Hosea 5:4) 

[As an aside, even sadder is that we who profess to believe too often subscribe to the day to day that the world offers rather than trusting the Lord Himself for our sustenance. Is it any wonder that the Lord Jesus said, "Nevertheless when the Son of man comes, shall He find faith on the earth?" (Luke 18:18) But I digress.]

 

"Therefore I will make Samaria as an heap of the field, [and] as plantings of a vineyard: and I will pour down the stones thereof into the valley, and I will discover the foundations thereof. And all the graven images thereof shall be beaten to pieces,and all the hires thereof shall be burned with the fire, and all the idols thereof will I lay desolate: for she gathered it of the hire of an harlot, and they shall return to the hire of an harlot." (Micah 1:6-7)

Still, as His Word continually shows, the Lord has a greater purpose for those who believe in Him, trusting in His Name, giving thanks continually for His blessings, rejoicing evermore. But to get there, we need to adhere to His Word and not the voice of the harlot who willingly chooses to worship strange gods. Why? Because there is only One Almighty God, and in this current time period in which we live, we are to feed upon His strength -- the strength of the Lord and dwell in the Majesty of the Name of JESUS! For He is Alpha and Omega, the first and the last, the beginning and the ending. He who is and was and is to come -- our Lord God and Saviour JESUS the Christ. (Revelation 1:8; I Timothy 3:16; Titus 2:13; Acts 2:36-41)

Yes, "ye are My witnesses," saith the LORD, "and My servant whom I have chosen: that ye may know and believe Me, and understand that I AM HE: before Me there was no God formed, neither shall there be after Me. I, even I, am the LORD; and beside Me there is no Saviour. I have declared, and have saved, and I have shewed, when there was no strange god among you: therefore ye are My witnesses," saith the LORD, "that I am God. Yea, before the day was I AM HE; and there is none that can deliver out of My hand: I will work, and who shall let it?

Thus saith the LORD, your Redeemer, the Holy One of Israel, "For your sake I have sent to Babylon, and have brought down all their nobles, and the Chaldeans, whose cry is in the ships. I am the LORD, your Holy One, the creator of Israel, your King."

Thus saith the LORD, which makes a way in the sea, and a path in the mighty waters; which brings forth the chariot and horse, the army and the power; they shall lie down together, they shall not rise: they are extinct, they are quenched as tow. "Remember ye not the former things, neither consider the things of old. Behold, I will do a new thing; now it shall spring forth; shall ye not know it? I will even make a way in the wilderness, and rivers in the desert. The beast of the field shall honour Me, the dragons and the owls: because I give waters in the wilderness, and rivers in the desert, to give drink to My people, My chosen. This people have I formed for Myself; they shall shew forth My praise." (Isaiah 43:10-21)

Make Jesus both Lord and Christ in your heart and life today, and be thankful for the many blessings He continues to bestow upon those who believe in Him with all their mind, soul, heart and strength. Hear O Israel the Lord thy God is One Lord! (Mark 12:29-31; Deuteronomy 6:4) And He is more than able to sustain you in the day to day.

Stand in the offering plate. 

The First Adam Made A Living Soul; The Last Adam Made A Quickening Spirit - Part 2105

"What if God, willing to show His wrath, and to make His power known, endured with much long suffering the vessels of wrath fitted to destruction: [so] that He might make known the riches of His glory on the vessels of mercy, which He had afore prepared unto glory, even us, whom He hath called, not of the Jews only, but also of the Gentiles?"  (Romans 9:22-24)

This is an interesting question. What if the purpose of salvation through the shed holy blood of Jesus the Christ on the cross was the full intent of the Lord God creating the earth in the first place -- so that He could gain unto Himself a family? What if His purpose for enduring His own long-suffering was to invite us -- His beloved creation -- into everlasting life with Him? This is most certainly what the scriptures saith. And yes, it is because of His mercy toward us, that He has sustained this world until now -- so that He could make His power known, and the riches of His glory on the vessels of mercy -- you and I. 

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

And as Esaias said before, "Except the Lord of Sabaoth had left us a seed, we had been as Sodoma, and been made like unto Gomorrha. What shall we say then? That the Gentiles, which followed not after righteousness, have attained to righteousness, even the righteousness which is of faith. But Israel, which followed after the law of righteousness, hath not attained to the law of righteousness. Wherefore? 

Because they sought it not by faith, but as it were by the works of the law. For they stumbled at that stumbling stone. As it is written, "Behold, I lay in Sion a stumbling stone and rock of offence: and whosoever believes on Him shall not be ashamed." (Romans 9:22-33)

The Rock which is the stumbling block is JESUS. The name that is offensive to so many is JESUS. 

Nevertheless, for believers, JESUS is the ONLY Name whereby we must be saved. (Acts 4:12) We also know that the Name of JESUS is above every other Name -- because He has elevated His Word -- JESUS -- above all things. (Philippians 2:9) " ... for Thou hast magnified Thy Word above all thy name." (Psalm 138:2)

The Great I AM that was manifest in the flesh for you and I -- His Name in this current dispensation of grace is JESUS, for He shall save His people from their sins. And all this -- including the kindness and love of God our Saviour toward us appearing -- is so that you and I might experience His abundant love in Him. (Titus 3:4-7)

"As for God, His way is perfect: the Word of the Lord is tried: He is a buckler to all those that trust in Him." (Psalm 18:30) 

This is why Thy Word -- JESUS -- the Word made flesh and dwelling among us should be daily a lamp unto our feet, and a light unto our path. (John 1:1-14; Psalm 119:105) The reason why "Thou art my hiding place and my shield" because we "hope in Thy Word." (Psalm 119:14 )

Thus, our prayer should be for the Lord to uphold us according unto Thy Word! (Psalm 119:116)

Again, the Word being JESUS who was in the beginning with God and was God. The Alpha and Omega, the first and the last, the beginning and the ending. Meditate on these things this very day, knowing that not one thing will happen to you this day that He has not already prepared us for. 

His Name? JESUS -- the Way, the Truth and the Life! (John 14:6) JESUS -- the Rock of ages! JESUS -- the everlasting Father whose love and mercy and kindness motivated Him to become just like us -- God manifest in the flesh. (I Timothy 3:16)

Stand in the offering plate.

If ye Know That He Is Righteous, ye Know That Every One That Does Righteousness Is Born Of Him - Part 2104

"For in Him dwells all the fullness of the Godhead bodily. And ye are complete in Him, which is the head of all principality and power ..." (Colossians 2:9-10) 

Who is the Him cited here? JESUS, for He shall save His people from their sins. This same Jesus whom ye have crucified, said Peter standing with the eleven, "is both Lord and Christ." (Acts 2:36) And in Him dwells all the fullness of the Godhead bodily. God manifest in the flesh. (I Timothy 3:16) He was in the world and the world was made by Him and the world knew Him not. He came unto His own and His own received Him not. (John 1:10-11) The first man earthy, but the second -- the Lord from heaven.

The Word made flesh and dwelt among us and we beheld His glory. (John 1:1-14) 

As Jesus said, "I said therefore unto you, that ye shall die in your sins: for if ye believe not that I AM [He], ye shall die in your sins." (John 8:24) Jesus said unto her, "I AM the resurrection, and the life: he that believes in Me, though he were dead, yet shall he live ..." (John 11:25) "Now I tell you before it come, that, when it is come to pass, ye may believe that I AM [He]." (John 13:19) "Believest thou not that I am in the Father, and the Father in Me? The words that I speak unto you I speak not of Myself: but the Father that dwells in Me, He doeth the works." (John 14:10) And Jesus said unto them, "I AM the bread of life: he that comes to Me shall never hunger; and he that believes on Me shall never thirst." (John 6:35)

"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." (Acts 20:28)

Sadly, we are seeing a lack of understanding of the Godhead propagated within the modern day religious community -- wherein the Him referred to here is not known -- and as a consequence, people who want to believe that Jesus is the Way, the Truth, and the Life are being confused by a false trinitarian teaching. But the scriptures are clear for those who seek the truth. That is, God clothed Himself in sin-prone flesh (yet without sin) and dwelt among us bodily -- so that we could find abundant life in Him. 

But the religious want to carve Almighty God into thirds, wherein only a third of God was in Christ Jesus and not the fullness of the Godhead. 

Nevertheless, the scriptures are clear, stating throughout the old and New Testament that God who is One cannot be divided into three persons. In the beginning, God! The first commandment declaring in both the old and the new -- "Hear O Israel, the Lord thy God is ONE LORD!" (Deuteronomy 6:4; Mark 12:29-31) This is why Jesus could say to His disciples, "I and My Father are ONE!" (John 10:30) And similarly, "If ye have seen Me, ye have seen the Father." (John 14:6-12)

Jesus -- the visible image of the unseen God. (Hebrews 1:1-13)

"To wit, God was in Christ reconciling the world unto Himself." (II Corinthians 5:19)

Moreover, apostle Paul writes, "For since by man came death, by man came also the resurrection of the dead. For as in Adam all die, even so in Christ shall all be made alive. But every man in his own order: Christ the first fruits; afterward they that are Christ's at His coming. Then comes the end, when He shall have delivered up the kingdom to God, even the Father; when He shall have put down all rule and all authority and power.

For He must reign, till He hath put all enemies under His feet. The last enemy that shall be destroyed is death. For He hath put all things under His feet. But when He saith all things are put under Him, it is manifest that He is excepted, which did put all things under Him. And when all things shall be subdued unto Him, then shall the Son also Himself be subject unto Him that put all things under Him, that God may be all in all." (I Corinthians 15:21-28)

This is why there can only be ONE God and Jesus is His name! For only God Himself, Emmanuel, being interpreted, God with us could forgive us our sins. (Matthew 1:21-23) Only One King of kings and Lord of lords. Only One Alpha and Omega, the first and the last, the beginning and the ending. (Revelation 1:8) 

We know this to be true because the scripture states -- "Lo, behold, the volume of the book is written of Me!" The scripture does not say -- Lo, behold the volume of the book is written of us. As well, God is never described as triune, or a triad, or as God in three persons in the scriptures. If God were divided into thirds, would the scriptures not openly declare this to be so? Further, if there were another Saviour, besides God our Saviour, would Jesus not have said so?

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

"So shall they fear the Name of the LORD from the west, and His glory from the rising of the sun. When the enemy shall come in like a flood, the Spirit of the LORD shall lift up a standard against him. And the Redeemer shall come to Zion, and unto them that turn from transgression in Jacob," saith the LORD. "As for Me, this is My covenant with them," saith the LORD, "My Spirit that is upon Thee, and My words which I have put in Thy mouth, shall not depart out of Thy mouth, nor out of the mouth of Thy seed, nor out of the mouth of Thy seed's seed," saith the LORD, "from henceforth and for ever." (Isaiah 59:15-21)

Isaiah further wrote: "O LORD, Thou art my God; I will exalt Thee, I will praise Thy Name; for Thou hast done wonderful things; Thy counsels of old are faithfulness and truth. For Thou hast made of a city an heap; of a defenced city a ruin: a palace of strangers to be no city; it shall never be built. Therefore shall the strong people glorify Thee, the city of the terrible nations shall fear thee. For Thou hast been a strength to the poor, a strength to the needy in his distress, a refuge from the storm, a shadow from the heat, when the blast of the terrible ones is as a storm against the wall.

Thou shalt bring down the noise of strangers, as the heat in a dry place; even the heat with the shadow of a cloud: the branch of the terrible ones shall be brought low. And in this mountain shall the LORD of hosts make unto all people a feast of fat things, a feast of wines on the lees, of fat things full of marrow, of wines on the lees well refined. And He will destroy in this mountain the face of the covering cast over all people, and the vail that is spread over all nations. He will swallow up death in victory; and the Lord GOD will wipe away tears from off all faces; and the rebuke of His people shall He take away from off all the earth: for the LORD hath spoken it.

And it shall be said in that day, "Lo, this is our God; we have waited for Him, and He will save us: this is the LORD; we have waited for Him, we will be glad and rejoice in His salvation. For in this mountain shall the hand of the LORD rest, and Moab shall be trodden down under Him, even as straw is trodden down for the dunghill. And He shall spread forth His hands in the midst of them, as he that swims spreads forth his hands to swim: and He shall bring down their pride together with the spoils of their hands. And the fortress of the high fort of thy walls shall He bring down, lay low, and bring to the ground, even to the dust." (Isaiah 25:1-12)

Certainly, those who walked day in and day out with Jesus knew whom He was. Even Thomas, who after placing his hand in Jesus' side, and seeing His nail print hands said to Him -- "my Lord an my God!" 

The question (sadly!) is why don't we? Why do we believe the modern day traditions of men rather than searching the scriptures for His truth. Only you can answer that question. Still, as for me and my household, we will serve the Lord! The One and Only who paid the ultimate price for my sins, so that I could abide in His love forevermore. He is my refuge and strength. He is the Good Shepherd who laid down His life for His sheep. Indeed, my all in all!

Stand in the offering plate. 

For Whoso Finds Me Finds Life, And Shall Obtain Favour Of The Lord - Part 2103

"Now therefore hearken unto Me, O ye children, for blessed [are they that] keep My ways. Hear instruction, and be wise, and refuse it not. Blessed [is] the man that heareth me, watching daily at the posts of My doors -- for whoso findeth Me findeth life, and shall obtain favour of the Lord ... teach a wise man and he will increase in learning." (Proverbs 8:32- Proverbs 9:9)

And it came to pass the day after Jesus had healed a certain centurion's servant that Jesus went into a city called Nain. We read that many of Jesus' disciples went with Him and much people as well. Now when Jesus came nigh to the gate of the city, behold there was a dead man carried out -- the only son of his mother, a widow. As it is in death, many people accompanied the woman.

But when Jesus saw the woman, He had compassion on her, saying, "Weep not." And He came and touched her and they that bare the dead man stood still. Jesus then said, "Young man, I say unto thee, arise." And he that was dead sat up and began to speak. And He delivered him to his mother. And there came a fear on all; and they glorified God, saying, "That a great prophet is risen among us, and, that God hath visited His people." And this rumour of Jesus went forth throughout all of Judaea and throughout all the region about.

And the disciples of John the baptist showed him of all these things. And John calling two of his disciples sent them to Jesus, saying, "Art Thou He that should come? Or look we for another?" (Luke 7:19)

When the men were come unto Jesus they said, "John the baptist hath sent us unto Thee, saying, "Art Thou He that should come? Or look we for another?" (Luke 7:20)

And in that same hour, He cured many of [their] infirmities, and plagues, and of evil spirits; and unto many that were blind, He gave sight. Then Jesus answering, said, "Go your way and tell John what things ye have seen and heard: how the blind see, the lame walk, the lepers are cleansed, the deaf hear, the dead are raised, to the poor the gospel is preached. And blessed is he -- whomsoever shall not be offended in Me." (Luke 7:22-23)

Note that once John's messengers had departed, Jesus began to speak further unto the people concerning 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 which are gorgeously appareled and live delicately are in king's courts. But what went ye out to see? A prophet? Yea, I say unto you and much more than a prophet. This is [he] of whom it is written, "Behold, I send My messenger before thy face, which shall prepare thy way before Thee." (Luke 7:24-27; Isaiah 40:3; Malachi 3:1)

Then Jesus said, "For I say unto you -- among those that are born of women there is not a greater prophet than John the Baptist, but he that is least in the kingdom of God is greater than he." (Luke 7:28)

And all the people that heard [Him] and the publicans justified God, being baptized with the baptism of John but the Pharisees and lawyers ... the Pharisees and lawyers rejected the counsel of God against themselves, being not baptized of John the baptist. (Luke 7:30)

Apostle Paul later related after his conversion on the road to Damascus, "For I have not shunned to declare unto you all the counsel of God." (Acts 20:27)

But is this not what is happening within both the societal and modern day religious culture today? To the poor the good news gospel of repentance and reformation of one's heart is preached and wholly accepted as taught in His Word. In fact, His Word accepted gladly into our hearts without question. But the Pharisees and lawyers? Those which are "gorgeously appareled and live delicately in the king's courts" -- these mock the commandments of God because their souls were/are not of God. The scriptures are clear on this point. The Pharisees and lawyers chose to turn a deaf ear, preferring instead to reject the counsel of God against themselves, being not baptized of John the baptizer.

"But the Pharisees and lawyers rejected the counsel of God against themselves, being not baptized of him." (Luke 7:30) Or, if we consider the more accurate rendering in the Greek -- "rejected for themselves the counsel of God."

However, note that the Pharisees and lawyers not only rejected John's baptism unto repentance but also Jesus the Christ who stood before them. The ultimate plan of salvation that was decided before the world was even formed -- the fullness of the Godhead dwelling bodily in Christ so that we -- you and I -- could be reconciled unto Himself.

These "learned" men despised the commands of God, including the baptism of repentance which was ordained of God. In so doing, these revealed their aversion and abhorrence to the gospel of the kingdom of God and His righteousness, rejecting the very instructions of our Lord and Christ. Sadly, the salvation message of repentance and water baptism in Jesus name is still being rejected today.

Even when we know that Jesus, "through the Holy Ghost" had given commandments unto the apostles whom He had chosen, and that we are instructed to continue steadfastly in the apostles' doctrine, there are those learned -- gorgeously appareled and live delicately in the king's courts -- rejecting the counsel of God. (Acts 1:1-4; Acts 2:37-42) Even though we see the counsel of God displayed on the day of Pentecost and His church in which Jesus is the Head established, we reject the counsel of God by not aligning our teachings on repentance and baptism with those taught in the scriptures.

When the people pricked in their heart asked Peter, standing with the eleven -- "Men and brethren, what shall we do?" 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 2:37-38)

The good news gospel message of the new testament. His life giving message. His love for us shown on an old rugged cross for all the world to behold. His precious blood shed so that we might have life in Him, clothed in His righteousness, and baptized into His name. We either accept His counsel gladly or we become like those Pharisees and lawyers standing in the place of Jesus -- in the king's court /man-made religion -- rejecting the counsel of God.

This is why the Lord Jesus then told the Pharisees and lawyers that rejected the counsel of God against themselves -- “Where unto then shall I liken the men of this generation? And to what are they like? They are like unto children sitting in the marketplace, and calling one to another, and saying, “We have piped unto you, and ye have not danced; we have mourned to you, and ye have not wept.” For John the Baptist came neither eating bread nor drinking wine; and ye say, “He hath a devil.” The Son of man is come eating and drinking; and ye say, “Behold a gluttonous man, and a winebibber, a friend of publicans and sinners!” (Luke 7:29-37)

Yes, wisdom is justified of all her children. He hath made this Jesus whom you crucified both Lord and Christ. (Acts 2:36)

"Now therefore hearken unto Me, O ye children, for blessed [are they that] keep My ways. Here instruction, and be wise, and refuse it not. Blessed [is] the man that heareth me, watching daily at the posts of My doors -- for whoso findeth Me findeth life, and shall obtain favour of the Lord." (Proverbs 8:32- Proverbs 9:9)

Stand in the offering plate with Jesus.

Known Unto God Are All His Works From The Beginning Of The World - Part 2102

"Blessed is he that reads, and they that hear the words of this prophecy, and keep those things which are written therein: for the time is at hand." (Revelation 1:2)

Far too often, when the book of Revelation is raised, believers tend to shy away. The reason for this, in part, is that John describes what will happen at the end of the age, including the terrible consequences of fulfilled Bible prophecies. Still, in essence, Revelation is the history written in advance so that we who believe in Jesus Christ by faith would know what is the end. Therefore, ironically, what is missing when we only look for the signs of the times within Revelation is that we miss the fact that John wanted us to know who Jesus the Christ was. And thus, in so writing was able to provide an unveiling of the Lord God, who in this current dispensation is JESUS,

Emmanuel, God with us, for He shall save His people from their sins. (Matthew 1:21-23)

After the kindness and love of God our Saviour toward man appeared. (Titus 3:4) Through the scriptures, known unto God are all His works from the beginning of the world. Nothing is hid from those who seek the truth. Indeed, Jesus said, "I AM the Way, the Truth, and the Life." (John 14:6) There is no other Lord God and Saviour but by Me, saith the Lord. (Hosea 13:4)

But another way of describing Revelation is that God makes known to us His truths -- realities that we by our own understanding could never realize or discover. As well, we should recognize that Revelation is the final work of the New Testament, wherein we learn of the second appearing of our precious Lord God and Saviour Jesus the Christ, our hope, our peace, our Redeemer. (Titus 2:13)

So, again, while there are numerous purposes for the book of Revelation being written, it is also so that we would understand who Jesus the Christ is. The King of kings and Lord of lords, Alpha and Omega, the first and the last, the beginning and the ending. As Peter so aptly said, when he stood with the eleven on the day of Pentecost, the same Jesus whom ye have crucified is both Lord and Christ. (Acts 2:36)

Apostle Paul (who received his understanding of the gospel by revelation, and whose ministry was specific to the Gentiles) continued this very same teaching, when he said that in everything we do, in both word or deed, we should do in the Name of the Lord Jesus. Why?

So "that in every thing ye are enriched by Him, in all utterance, and in all knowledge; even as the testimony of Christ was confirmed in you: so that ye come behind in no gift; waiting for the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ: who shall also confirm you unto the end, that ye may be blameless in the day of our Lord Jesus Christ. God is faithful, by whom ye were called unto the fellowship of His Son Jesus Christ our Lord. Now I beseech you, brethren, by the Name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that ye all speak the same thing, and that there be no divisions among you; but that ye be perfectly joined together in the same mind and in the same judgment." (I Corinthians 1:5-10)

Apostle Paul further explains it this way - "... so that we ourselves glory in you in the churches of God for your patience and faith in all your persecutions and tribulations that ye endure: which is a manifest token of the righteous judgment of God, that ye may be counted worthy of the kingdom of God, for which ye also suffer: seeing it is a righteous thing with God to recompense tribulation to them that trouble you; and to you who are troubled rest with us, when the Lord Jesus shall be revealed from heaven with his mighty angels, in flaming fire taking vengeance on them that know not God, and that obey not the gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ: who shall be punished with everlasting destruction from the presence of the Lord, and from the glory of His power; when He shall come to be glorified in His saints, and to be admired in all them that believe (because our testimony among you was believed) in that day." (II Thessalonians 1:4-10)

As an aside, not just Paul but Peter similarly who wrote, "Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, which according to His abundant mercy hath begotten us again unto a lively hope by the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, to an inheritance incorruptible, and undefiled, and that fadeth not away, reserved in heaven for you, who are kept by the power of God through faith unto salvation ready to be revealed in the last time. Wherein ye greatly rejoice, though now for a season, if need be, ye are in heaviness through manifold temptations: that the trial of your faith, being much more precious than of gold that perisheth, though it be tried with fire, might be found unto praise and honour and glory at the appearing of Jesus Christ: whom having not seen, ye love; in whom, though now ye see Him not, yet believing, ye rejoice with joy unspeakable and full of glory: receiving the end of your faith, even the salvation of your souls. Of which salvation the prophets have enquired and searched diligently, who prophesied of the grace that should come unto you ..." (I Peter 1:3-10)

You see, when we study Revelation, we learn so much more about whom we serve, and His kindness and abundant love for His people. And within the revelation of Himself to us -- His beloved -- we begin to understand how much our Lord God and Saviour loved us -- that He willingly endured the cross. Don't lose sight of His goodness and grace and mercy in the day to day, for He does have a purpose for each and every one of us.

Thus, being justified by faith, we can have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ. (Romans 5:1) We can experience the peace that surpasses human understanding,  made through the blood of His cross. (Colossians 1:20) And because of His love dwelling within, the God of hope  can fill you with all joy and peace in believing, that ye may abound in hope, through the power of the Holy Ghost.

In other words, when Jesus is our all in all, there is nothing that we should fear. Stand in the offering plate.

Christ In You -- The Hope Of Glory! - Part 2101

Interestingly, throughout history, the Lord has always orchestrated a thread of believers who remain steadfast in the apostolic doctrine, as firmly established at the beginning of the New Testament church on the day of Pentecost. That is, these understood from the scriptures that this same Jesus whom ye [we] have crucified is both Lord and Christ. (Acts 2:36-47; Hebrews 6:1-2) And similarly, when we are water baptized in the precious, holy Name of the Lord Jesus, we are filled with the gift of the Holy Ghost. (Acts 2:38)

Indeed, Christ in you is the hope of glory.

This truth historically -- that Christ was central to the early Friends experience. The Friends identified that the Light now dwelling within them was indeed the Christ. We know this from writings by William Penn who was imprisoned for his anti-trinitarian statements. The sandy foundation was shaken and the accusations against him being that he denied the divinity of Christ. His answer to this charge he titled, "Innocence with her open face" which he penned whilst in prison.

Herein, he writes, "That which I am credibly informed to be the greatest reason for my imprisonment, and that sound of blasphemy, which has pierced my ears of late is my denying the divinity of Christ, and divesting Him of His eternal Godhead, which busybodies have suggested to those in authority, as maliciously insinuated amongst the people; wherefore I beseech you to be impartial and considerate, in the perusal of my vindication, which being in the fear of the Almighty God, and in the simplicity of scripture dialect, presented now to you ...

I hope my innocence will appear beyond a scruple. The Proverb, which, as most will agree, intend Christ as Saviour when speaking in this manner -- "By Me Kings reign, and princes decree justice; I (wisdom) lead in the midst of the paths of judgement; I was set up from everlasting ..." -- to which Paul’s words allude, "Unto them which are called [we preach] Christ the power of God, and the wisdom of God; from whence I conclude Christ the Saviour to be God; for otherwise God would not be Himself; since if Christ be distinct from God and yet is declared as being God’s power and wisdom; but inasmuch as it is impossible God’s power and wisdom should be distinct or divided from Himself, it reasonably follows, that Christ who is the power and wisdom of God, is not distinct from God, but entirely that very same God."

"To wit, God was in Christ reconciling the world unto Himself ..." (II Corinthians 5:19) "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)

Jesus was the Word made flesh. Jesus was God manifest in the flesh. But after He -- Jesus -- was taken up, He through the Holy Ghost gave commandments unto the apostles whom He had chosen. (Acts 1:2-3) It is at this point that the Son of man returns to His rightful place -- the Lord God Almighty -- who is and was and is to come.

"Looking for that blessed hope, and the glorious appearing of the great God and our Saviour Jesus Christ!" (Titus 2:13)

Jesus is the mystery of the Godhead displayed for one and all to behold, the same God who declared peace and good will to all. Now the King of kings and Lord of lords, there is no other Saviour beside Him. This is in fact the greatest love story ever told, when the same God who created us willingly showed His mercy and kindness -- sufficiently so -- to include the cross in His plan of salvation. Yes, Jesus -- Alpha and Omega, the first and the last, the beginning and the ending. (Revelation 1:8)

He is the Great I AM. As Jesus said, "Before Abraham was, I AM." (John 8:58)

But don't get caught up in the man-made religious teachings that attempt to divide God into three persons, even when the scripture clearly states -- God is One. God our Saviour. Remember the first commandment (the same in both the old and the new) -- "Hear O Israel, the Lord thy God is One Lord!" (Deuteronomy 6:4; Mark 12:29-31)

There is an account written by the original author of this blog -- Bill McKendrick -- that may be edifying to readers.  I have included this below. Be blessed, standing continually in the offering plate.

"Looking back, I recall when the trinitarians and the oneness believers fellowshipped together. the young trinitarians decided to separate themselves from the oneness believers. They were successful in their endeavour and they also secured all properties, only one edifice survived the fray. It was in this remaining edifice that I fearfully entered, fearfully I say, for I was young in Christ and older trinitarians could not answer my questions concerning doctrines that were clearly defined in the Scripture as the teaching of the holy Spirit through the Apostles. Their only remedy was to lay fear.

Then, I and my young family drove across the city to this single remaining edifice. In this place, a very elderly brother was teaching Sunday school. My memory of the message is that he taught about the Beatitudes. My memory of the place is when the peace of God that passes all understanding rested upon me. I was privileged to sit at the feet of one who had frequented the 1904 revival. Love all them that love the truth, for God is Love and God’s Word is Truth. Remember too that if any man or angel preach any other gospel to you Paul declares that they are accursed."

"O LORD, Thou Art my God; I Will Exalt Thee, I Will Praise Thy Name; For Thou Hast Done Wonderful Things; Thy Counsels Of Old Are Faithfulness And Truth - Part 2100

"And without controversy great is the mystery of godliness: God was manifest in the flesh, justified in the Spirit, seen of angels, preached unto the Gentiles, believed on in the world, received up into glory." (I Timothy 3:16)

Within the modern day religious culture, a false trinity or triad or tri-une god, G/god in three persons message is taught, and until believers get into His Word -- the scriptures and study for themselves, rightly dividing the Word, these believers are too often are left in confusion regarding the Godhead. Like David the psalmist, the question is asked -- "For who is God save the Lord? or who is a rock save our God?" (Psalm 18:31)

Most certainly, we know that "in the beginning, God." We also know that in the beginning too, the Spirit of the Lord God moved upon the face of the waters. (Genesis 1:1-2) From these two scriptures, we know that God is Spirit, and also, that the Lord is God. 

Further, the first commandment instructs us to "Hear O Israel, the Lord thy God is ONE LORD!" (Deuteronomy 6:4; Mark 12:29-31) One God who created all things both in heaven and earth, and expresses Himself to us through different names. We also understand from the gospel John writes that He was in the world and the world was made by Him and the world knew Him not. (John 1:10-11)

Indeed, Jesus clarified His identity when He said, "I and My Father are ONE!" (John 10:30) And that if you have seen Me -- Jesus -- ye have seen the Father. (John 14:6-12) Yes, indeed, as Jesus said, "I AM the Way, the Truth and the Life!" 

Moreover, "to wit, God was in Christ reconciling the world unto Himself ..." (II Corinthians 5:19) 

His plan of salvation decided before the foundations of the world were even formed, making God's reconciliation plan, His plan of redemption for the people He created, the most glorious love story ever told. 

Thus, the following scriptures should serve as a starting point for understanding in whom we worship, giving Him (and not a supposed them) all the praise and honour and glory. Take out your Bible and study your way through these scriptures. Look at the scriptures both in context, and comparatively with other scriptures, for God is not the Author of confusion. (I Corinthians 14:33) And ask the One Lord God whom we serve -- His Name in this current dispensation JESUS -- for His guidance and instruction. For as Jesus indicated, He is the King of kings and Lord of lords, Alpha and Omega, the first and the last, the beginning and the ending. (Revelation 1:8) And beside Him, there is no other.

Yes, One Lord, One Faith, One Baptism. One God and Father of all. (Ephesians 4:5-6) 

And for purposes of clarity, please note that nowhere in the scriptures is God described as three persons, or as God the Son or God the Holy Spirit. Nowhere is the trinity cited. Indeed, what we have now is man-made religious teachings that have sidetracked the love and kindness of God our Saviour. It is no wonder that Jesus said in Luke 17:22: "The days will come, when ye shall desire to see one of the days of the Son of man, and ye shall not see [it]."

Because if we subscribe to the current religious teachings, we will never understand that the Son of man is indeed the Lord of glory. The Son of man the Lord from heaven. "The first man is of the earth, earthy: the second man is the Lord from heaven." (I Corinthians 15:47) And that after He was taken up, He THROUGH the Holy Ghost gave commandments to the apostles whom He had chosen. (Acts 1:2-3) 

"Ye are My witnesses," saith the LORD, "and My servant whom I have chosen: that ye may know and believe Me, and understand that I AM HE: before Me there was no God formed, neither shall there be after Me. I, even I, am the LORD; and beside Me there is no Saviour. I have declared, and have saved, and I have shewed, when there was no strange god among you: therefore ye are My witnesses," saith the LORD, "that I am God. YEA, BEFORE THE DAY WAS I AM HE; and there is none that can deliver out of My hand: I will work, and who shall let it?" (Isaiah 43:10-13)

"Lo, behold, the volume of the book is written of Me!" (Psalm 40:7; Hebrews 10:7) 

"... that they may adorn the doctrine of God our Saviour in all things." (Titus 2:10)

"O LORD, Thou art my God; I will exalt Thee, I will praise Thy name; for Thou hast done wonderful things; Thy counsels of old are faithfulness and truth." (Isaiah 25:1)

"Tell ye, and bring them near; yea, let them take counsel together: who hath declared this from ancient time? who hath told it from that time? have not I the Lord? and there is no God else beside Me; a just God and a Saviour; there is none beside me." (Isaiah 45:21)

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

"Yet I am the Lord thy God from the land of Egypt, and thou shalt know no god but Me: for there is no Saviour beside Me." (Hosea 13:4)

"I AM He that lives, and was dead; and, behold, I am alive for evermore, Amen; and have the keys of hell and of death." (Revelation 1:8, 11, 17-18)

"Looking for that blessed hope, and the glorious appearing of the great God and our Saviour Jesus Christ ..." (Titus 2:13)

And He said unto me, "It 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." (Revelation 21:6)

When you say God the Father -- He was the Father-- but only scripturally AFTER the prophecy was fulfilled that stated, "This day have I begotten Thee." When "the Holy Ghost this signifying that the way into the holiest of all was not yet made manifest, while as the first tabernacle was yet standing." (Hebrews 9:8) 

The Old Testament had to go in order for that which is perfect to come. There had to be a changing of the guard. Thus, when Jesus said, "I and My Father are One!" and that "he that hath seen Me hath seen the Father" He confirmed that the fullness of the Godhead dwelt bodily in Him. (John 10:30; John 14:6-12; Colossians 2:9) 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) Further, Jesus said "If ye do not believe that I AM HE, ye shall die in your sins." (John 8:24) In other words, God became our Saviour, preparing for Himself a body so that we might be saved. (Hebrews 10:5; Titus 3:4-7) 

"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." (Acts 20:28) 

Not another god or a lesser god or one third of Almighty God but the One and Only God who loved His creation -- you and I -- so much that He desired us for His family. And after Jesus was taken up, He THROUGH the Holy Ghost gives commandments unto the apostles whom He had chosen -- the Comforter, the Spirit of the Lord God Almighty who Jesus said would never leave us nor forsakes us. (Acts 1:2-3; John 14:26; John 15:26) 

In this current dispensation of grace -- the time in which we live now -- His Name is JESUS, for He shall save His people from their sins. Emmanuel, being interpreted, God with us. (Matthew 1:21-23)

"And when they heard that, they lifted up their voice to God with one accord, and said, "Lord, Thou art God, which hast made heaven, and earth, and the sea, and all that in them is ..." (Acts 4:24)

"To the only wise God our Saviour, be glory and majesty, dominion and power, both now and ever. Amen." (Jude 1:25)

The risen Jesus -- now the King of kings and Lord of lords, Alpha and Omega, the first and the last, the beginning and the ending -- indeed, He is the Great I AM. (Revelation 1:8; John 8:58; Acts 1:2-3) This is why Jesus could say, "I AM the Bread of Life!" And that if any come to Him -- Jesus -- He will give them to drink of the living water wherein these shall never thirst again.

"For this is the covenant that I will make with the house of Israel after those days," saith the Lord; "I will put My laws into their mind, and write them in their hearts: and I will be to them a God, and they shall be to Me a people:" (Hebrews 8:10)

"For thy Maker is thine husband; the Lord of hosts is His name; and thy Redeemer the Holy One of Israel; The God of the whole earth shall He be called." (Isaiah 54:5)

Stand in the offering plate.