The Lord Gave Thee Understanding In All Things; Grace, Mercy, Peace - Part 2380

Three generations. As believers, the scriptures instruct us to teach the good news gospel to three generations. Note that Timothy witnessed the unfeigned faith of his mother Eunice and grandmother also. Therefore, Paul an apostle of Jesus Christ by the will of God was persuaded that this very same faith would be in Timothy.

As an fyi, the word unfeigned is defined as: genuine; sincere. Synonyms include: real, true, honest, authentic, unaffected, un-pretended, unforced, uncontrived, artless, candid, frank, bona-fide, earnest, heartfelt, wholehearted, deep, and from the heart.

Continuing, herein, "Paul, an apostle of Jesus Christ by the will of God, according to the promise of life which is in Christ Jesus is writing to Timothy." Note that Paul does not say that the promise of life is another, but in the same Jesus who met Paul (as Saul) on the road to Damascus. Therein, Paul asks, "Who art Thou, Lord?" The Lord answers Paul, saying, "I am Jesus, whom thou persecutes; it is hard for thee to kick against the pricks." (Acts 9:1-6)

To his instructional letter to Timothy, Paul continues saying, "Grace, mercy, and peace, from God the Father and Christ Jesus our Lord. I thank God, whom I serve from [my] forefathers with pure conscience, that without ceasing I have remembrance of thee in my prayers night and day; greatly desiring to see thee, being mindful of thy tears, that I may be filled with joy; when I call to remembrance the unfeigned faith that is in thee, which dwelt first in thy grandmother Lois, and thy mother Eunice; and I am persuaded that in thee also.

Wherefore I put thee in remembrance that thou stir up the gift of God, which is in thee by the putting on of my hands. For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind. Be not thou therefore ashamed of the testimony of our Lord, nor of me His prisoner: but be thou partaker of the afflictions of the gospel according to the power of God; who hath saved us, and called [us] with an holy calling, not according to our works, but according to His own purpose and grace, which was given us in Christ Jesus before the world began, but is now made manifest by the appearing of our Saviour Jesus Christ, who hath abolished death, and hath brought life and immortality to light through the gospel: whereunto I am appointed a preacher, and an apostle, and a teacher of the Gentiles." (II Timothy 1:1-11)

For clarity, remember the Holy Ghost fathered the holy child Jesus in the womb -- that holy thing -- in that the Holy Ghost overshadowed Mary so that she could bring forth a son. The Holy Ghost being the same God who created the heavens and the earth is confirmed herein. And to wit, this same God was in Christ reconciling the world unto Himself. (II Corinthians 5:19) Paul opens many of his letters in this way, so that we understand that the Holy Ghost is New Testament, the doctrine of Christ specifically defined. (II John 1:9; I Corinthians 1:1-2; Hebrews 6:1-2) 

From I Timothy 1:1-2 -- "Paul an apostle of Jesus Christ by the commandment of God our Saviour, and Lord Jesus Christ -- which is our hope. Unto Timothy, [my] own son in the faith; Grace, mercy and peace from God the Father and Jesus Christ our Lord." (I Timothy 1:1-2; Romans 1:7; Luke 1:47; Colossians 1:27; Titus 1:3-4; II Timothy 1:2)

Earlier, Paul has reiterated to Timothy to teach no other doctrine, neither to give heed to fables and endless genealogies, which minister questions, rather than godly edifying which is in the faith. (I Timothy 1:3-4; Galatians 1:6-7; I Timothy 6:3; I Timothy 4:7; Titus 1:14)

Note that apostle Paul had continually been faithful to God "whom I serve with my spirit in the gospel of His Son," and as noted in other scriptures, his conscience clear. (Acts 23:1; Romans 1:8-9) Paul kept in remembrance the saints in prayers night and day, and in this case, desired to see Timothy that he may be filled with joy. In fact, Paul was in a rush to stir up the gift of God which is in Timothy (given thee by prophecy, with the laying on of the hands of the presbytery" -- by the putting on of his hands. (II Timothy 1:6; I Thessalonians 5:19; I Timothy 4:14) 

The gift of the Holy Ghost. (Acts 2:36-41)

Similarly, in terms of the three generations noted above, Paul reiterates that Timothy "take heed unto thyself; and unto the doctrine; continue in them: for in doing this thou shalt both save thyself, and them that hear thee." (I Timothy 4:16; Romans 11:14; Titus 2:7) The promise being given to you and to your children, and to those who are afar off. (Acts 2:38-39)

Why is this important? For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind. (II Timothy 1:7) In another place, we have not received the spirit of bondage again to fear, but we have received the Spirit of adoption, whereby we cry, "Abba, Father." (Romans 8:15) As Jesus said, "But ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you; and ye shall be witnesses unto Me both in Jerusalem, and in all Judaea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth." (Acts 1:8) 

It is for this reason that we should not be ashamed of the testimony of our Lord, but rather partaker in the afflictions of the gospel according to the power of God who hath saved us, and called us with an holy calling -- not according to works, but according to His own purpose and grace, which was given us in Christ Jesus before the world began. (II Timothy 1:8-9; Mark 8:38; Ephesians 3:1; Romans 16:25; Titus 1:2)

"Now to Him that is of the power to establish you according to my gospel, and the preaching of Jesus Christ, according to the revelation of the mystery, which was kept secret since the world began, but is now made manifest and by the scriptures of the prophets according to the commandment of the everlasting God, made known to all nations for the obedience of faith; to God only wise, be glory through Jesus Christ for ever, amen." (Romans 16:25-27; Romans 2:16; Ephesians 1:9; Romans 1:2, 5; Romans 11:36; I Timothy 1:17) 

There is so much more here. For now, hold fast the form of sound words -- in faith and love which is in Christ Jesus ... that good thing which was committed unto thee keep by the Holy Ghost which dwells in us. (II Timothy 1:13-14) 

Stand in the offering plate.

To Whom Shall We Go, For Jesus, You Have The Words Of Life - Part 2379

In earlier blogs, we witnessed how Peter preached repentance to all the people who marvelled at the lame man being healed. (Acts 3:11-12) Peter has instructed the people to repent, and be converted, that their sins may be blotted out, and that, when the times of refreshing shall come from the presence of the Lord; He shall send Jesus Christ which was preached unto you; whom the heaven must receive until the times of restitution of all things -- "which God hath spoken by the mouth of all His holy prophets since the world began." (Acts 3:19-21) Moreover, Peter clarified that this same Jesus whom they had crucified is the same prophet that the Lord told Moses would be raised up and that Him shall ye here. (Acts 3:22)

The message here has not changed from the instructions made by Peter (standing with the eleven) on the day of Pentecost. Indeed, in order for us to receive the Lord's gift of salvation, we need to repent, be water baptized in the precious holy Name of the Lord Jesus -- in order to receive His gift of the Holy Ghost (the Comforter who will lead and guide us into all truth) dwelling within.

Moving into Acts 4, we see that Peter and John are arrested as they spake unto the people. Indeed, the priests, and the captain of the temple, and the Sadducee's came upon them because they were grieved that Peter and John taught the people about Jesus and His resurrection from the dead. And although the scriptures are not specific on this point, these may also have been angry that now and going forward, they were going to lose their income from the lame man who had previously sat at the gate begging for alms. So they laid their hands on Peter and John and put them in the hold until the next day -- for it was now eventide (evening). (Acts 4:1-3; Luke 22:4; Acts 5:18, 24; Acts 17:18)

Howbeit, many of the people that heard Peter and John speak -- when they heard the Word believed; and the number of the men saved on this occasion were five thousand. 

"And it came to pass on the morrow, that their rulers, and elders, and scribes, and Annas the high priest, and Caiaphas, and John, and Alexander, and as many as were of the kindred of the high priest, were gathered together at Jerusalem. And when they had set them in the midst, they asked, "By what power, or by what Name, have ye done this?"

Then Peter, filled with the Holy Ghost, said unto them, "Ye rulers of the people, and elders of Israel, if we this day be examined of the good deed done to the impotent man, by what means he is made whole; be it known unto you all, and to all the people of Israel, that by the Name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, whom ye crucified, whom God raised from the dead, [even] by Him doth this man stand here before you whole. This is the stone which was set at nought of you builders, which is become the head of the corner. Neither is there salvation in any other: for there is none other Name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved." (Acts 4:8-12; Acts 2:4; Acts 3:6-7; Philippians 2:9)

"The stone which the builders refused is become the head [stone] of the corner. This is the Lord's doing; it is marvellous in our eyes ..." (Psalm 118:22-23)

"Therefore thus saith the Lord God, "Behold, I lay in Zion for a foundation a stone, a tried stone, a precious corner [stone] a sure foundation: he that believes shall not make haste." (Isaiah 28:16) 

As the angel of the Lord proclaimed (in ushering in the New Testament), "And ye shall call His Name JESUS for He shall save His people from their sins." (Matthew 1:21)

"Now when they saw the boldness of Peter and John, and perceived that they were unlearned and ignorant men, they marvelled; and they took knowledge of them, that they had been with Jesus. And beholding the man which was healed standing with them, they could say nothing against it." (Acts 4:13-14)

Note that two things were happening simultaneously. Those who ruled were taking note that Peter and John -- unlearned and ignorant men -- must have been with Jesus, for them to be so bold. And also, even as rulers, they were not in a position to say anything against the man which had been made whole (healed) after 40 plus years of being lame.

However, sadly, as we see in this account, the religious rulers demands to stop preaching in the Name of Jesus did not stop there.

But when they had commanded them to go aside out of the council, they conferred among themselves, saying, "What shall we do to these men? for that indeed a notable miracle hath been done by them is manifest to all them that dwell in Jerusalem; and we cannot deny [it]. But that it spread no further among the people, let us straitly threaten them, that they speak henceforth to no man in this Name."

And they called them, and commanded them not to speak at all nor teach in the Name of Jesus. But Peter and John answered and said unto them, "Whether it be right in the sight of God to hearken unto you more than unto God, judge ye. For we cannot but speak the things which we have seen and heard."

So when they had further threatened them, they let them go, finding nothing how they might punish them, because of the people: for all [men] glorified God for that which was done. But wait -- isn't glorifying God the main purpose of the church?!?! But I digress.

"For the man was above forty years old, on whom this miracle of healing was shewed. And being let go, they went to their own company, and reported all that the chief priests and elders had said unto them. 

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: who by the mouth of Thy servant David hast said, "Why did the heathen rage, and the people imagine vain things? The kings of the earth stood up, and the rulers were gathered together against the Lord, and against His Christ. For of a truth against Thy holy child Jesus, whom Thou hast anointed, both Herod, and Pontius Pilate, with the Gentiles, and the people of Israel, were gathered together, for to do whatsoever Thy hand and Thy counsel determined before to be done. And now, Lord, behold their threatenings: and grant unto Thy servants, that with all boldness they may speak Thy Word, by stretching forth Thine hand to heal; and that signs and wonders may be done by the Name of Thy holy child Jesus."

And when they had prayed, the place was shaken where they were assembled together; and they were all filled with the Holy Ghost, and they spake the Word of God with boldness. And the multitude of them that believed were of one heart and of one soul: neither said any [of them] that ought of the things which he possessed was his own; but they had all things common. And with great power gave the apostles witness of the resurrection of the Lord Jesus: and great grace was upon them all. Neither was there any among them that lacked: for as many as were possessors of lands or houses sold them, and brought the prices of the things that were sold, and laid [them] down at the apostles’ feet: and distribution was made unto every man according as he had need. And Joses, who by the apostles was surnamed Barnabas, (which is, being interpreted, The son of consolation,) a Levite, and of the country of Cyprus, having land, sold it, and brought the money, and laid it at the apostles’ feet." (Acts 4:1-37)

After Peter and John were imprisoned, the rulers began threatening them, commanding them not to speak in the Name of the Lord Jesus. How did Peter respond? "Whether it be right in the sight of God to hearken unto you more than unto God, judge ye. For we cannot but speak the things which we have seen and heard."

Stand in the offering plate.
 

The Good News Gospel Message Of Hope For One And All - Part 2378

The former letter I have written testifying of all the good things JESUS did and taught -- as a beginning faith -- until the day of His ascension. After that, JESUS continued ministering giving further instructions to His chosen apostles. His chosen apostles who were to be His witnesses -- even to the uttermost parts of the earth.

The initial message presented by the Holy Ghost to 120 persons in Acts 2 is specific. Here were 120 people gathered together in an upper room with the initial message being delivered to all of them in an unknown tongue. Within this context, the Holy Ghost was [literally] controlling their tongues. That is, until the purposed message was expressed to them in a heavenly language!

When the multitude who had gathered at Jerusalem to celebrate Pentecost heard the strange tongues that were being spoken (hearing men speak in their own language) they thought that the men were drunk. At this point, the uncontrollable unknown tongue experience was removed and the apostle Peter (in unison with the other eleven apostles) began to speak in his mother tongue. However, the miracle for those questioning the event was that the words spoken by Peter and the others were miraculously changed into other languages -- from every nation. Note that by this time, many of the folks who had gathered in that room for the feast spoke a different dialect.

As revealed in Acts, Peter began speaking. The message that Peter spoke to them was an interpretation of the unknown heavenly tongue. So in effect, Peter's message was a direct message of the Holy Spirit of God. Many believed and were convicted in conscience, that they had crucified not just a man named JESUS but someone who was more than just a man! JESUS was the Lord Himself, the Lord of Glory.

As a consequence, members of the audience were so consciously convicted that they cried out to the apostles, "Men and brethren, what are we to do?" The intensity of their plight filled the atmosphere. Peter replied by saying to the audience that they should repent and be baptized into the Name of JESUS the Christ for the remission of their sin and by so doing they would receive the gift of the Holy Ghost to indwell them!

This is God’s promise to each and every one of them extending to their children and grandchildren. In fact, this promise extends to all those who believe the gospel message and obey.

That same day 3,000 persons believed the Holy Ghost message, repenting of their sin and being baptized into the name of the Lord JESUS the Christ! From this first day forward, these believers continued steadfastly in the teachings of the holy Spirit of JESUS. Why? Because they recognized that the message being delivered to them was from JESUS through His chosen apostles. (Acts 1:2-3) The holy Spirit confirming the words spoken, with the LORD Himself adding believers to His CHURCH daily!

As we read then, the first believers CONTINUED STEADFASTLY in the Holy Ghost teachings! So we must ask the question here. Have you obediently obeyed the Holy Ghost directives or are you being misled by self-appointed men who long time ago abandoned JESUS' teachings? Remember, the Word of God does not come from you or I. Indeed, we receive the engrafted Word with meekness.

Thus, what is important at the end of the day is that we examine ourselves to see if we are in this faith. That we adhere to the same gospel message that was delivered to us by God Himself - who said that except a man or woman be born again of water and of the Spirit they CANNOT enter the Kingdom of GOD. This is the message delivered by Peter and the apostles in Acts. Peace to all sisters and brethren! Stand in the offering plate.

He Is The Rock, His Work Is Perfect, A God Of Truth And Without Iniquity, Just And Right Is He - Part 2377

"And he leaping up stood, and walked, and entered with them into the temple, walking and leaping and praising God ... and all the people saw him walking and praising God!" (Acts 3:8-9)

How many times have we been faced with a situation where an entire family -- all our kindred -- have come against us? This was the situation for Peter and John, who had went together into the temple at the hour of prayer at the ninth hour. (Acts 3:1) While there, a certain man lame from his birth was laid daily at the gate of the temple -- called Beautiful. The man would ask alms of them that entered into the temple. Upon seeing Peter and John, the man asks them for alms. What did Peter say?

After asking the man to "look on us," Peter said, "Silver and gold have I none; but such as I have give I thee; In the Name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, rise up and walk." (Acts 3:6) In so doing, Peter takes the man by the right hand and lifting him up; immediately, his feet and ankle bones received strength. This led to all the people being filled with wonder and amazement -- "greatly wondering!" (Acts 3:1-11)

When Peter saw this, he answered unto the people, "Ye men of Israel, why marvel ye at this? Or why look ye so earnestly on us, as though by our own power or holiness we had made this man to walk? The God of Abraham, and of Isaac; and of Jacob, the God of our fathers, hath glorified His Son Jesus; whom ye delivered up, and denied Him in the presence of Pilate, when He was determined to let [Him] go. But ye denied the Holy One and the Just, and desired a murderer to be granted unto you. and killed the Prince of Life, whom God hath raised from the dead; whereof we are witnesses." (Acts 3:12-13)

For clarity, Jesus had earlier accused the Pharisees of sitting in Moses' seat, binding heavy burdens that were grievous, laying them on men's shoulders, whilst loving the praise of men. (Matthew 23:1-3; Matthew 23:32; Luke 11:46; Acts 15:10)

From the Old Testament (which the Pharisees should have known), Ezra, "after the wisdom of thy God that is in thine hand set magistrates and judges, which may judge all the people that are beyond the river, all such as know the laws of thy God, and teach ye them that know them not ... to beautify the house of the Lord which is in Jerusalem." (Ezra 7:6, 10, 25-28; Ezra. 6:11, 22; Ezra 5:5; Ezra 9:9; Deuteronomy 16:18) But I digress somewhat. Continuing in Acts 3, Peter goes on to say:

"And His Name through faith in His Name -- hath made this man strong, whom ye see and know; yea, the faith which is by Him hath given him this perfect soundness in the present of you all. And now brethren, I wot that through ignorance ye did it, as did also your rulers. But those things, which God before had shewed by the mouth of all His prophets, that Christ should suffer, He hath so fulfilled." (Acts 3:16)

This man lame from birth for forty years had faith in His Name -- the precious, holy Name of the Lord Jesus. And as Peter said, "And His Name through faith in His Name" is the Holy One that made this man strong. This same Jesus that the Pharisees had denied -- the Holy One and the Just, the Prince of life -- instead desiring the release of a murderer. (Acts 3:16; Acts 2:36)

Did Peter stop there? Of course not. Peter continued saying that through ignorance the Pharisees and rulers had condemned Jesus to death -- even though God had showed them by the mouth of all His prophets that Christ should suffer. And that Christ should suffer, and that He should be the first to rise from the dead, and should shew the light unto the people and to the Gentiles. (Acts 26:22-23)

"Ought not Christ to have suffered these things, and to enter into His glory?" (Luke 24:26-27) "For they that dwell at Jerusalem, and their rulers, because they knew Him not, nor yet the voices of the prophets which are read every Sabbath day, they have fulfilled them in condemning Him. And though they found no cause of death [in Him], yet desired they Pilate that He should be slain. (Acts 13:27-28)

But even though these did not know Jesus (herein, the Pharisees and the rulers) Peter was re-confirming that they still had an opportunity to repent and be converted -- so that their sins may be blotted out. Like Jesus, who said from the cross -- "Father, forgive them for they know not what they do." (Luke 23:34) So Peter continues (as he did with the eleven on the day of Pentecost):

"Repent, ye therefore, and be converted that your sins may be blotted out, when the times of refreshing shall come from the presence of the Lord, and He shall send Jesus Christ which before was preached unto you." (Acts 3:19; Psalms 51:9; Acts 2:38)

That when ye repent and be converted (water baptism in the Name of the Lord Jesus -- so that your sins may be blotted out)then shall the times of refreshing come from the presence of the Lord, and He shall send Jesus Christ which before was preached unto you.

"Whom the heaven must receive until the times of restitution of all things, which God hath spoken by the mouth of all His holy prophets since the world began. For Moses truly said unto the fathers, "A prophet shall the Lord your God raise up unto you of your brethren, like unto me; Him shall ye hear in all things whatsoever He shall say unto you.

And it shall come to pass, that every soul, which will not hear that prophet, shall be destroyed from among the people. Yea, and all the prophets from Samuel and those that follow after, as many as have spoken, have likewise foretold of these days. (I Samuel 3:20; Acts 13:20)

Ye are the children of the prophets, and of the covenant which God made with our fathers, saying unto Abraham, "And in thy seed shall all the kindreds of the earth be blessed." (Genesis 12:3; Genesis 22:18; Acts 2:39) Unto you first God, and having raised up His Son Jesus, sent Him to bless you, in turning away every one of you from His iniquities." (Acts 3:1-26; Matthew 1:21; Acts 3:22) 

Who was that prophet -- His holy prophet that the Lord your God shall raise up? Who is the Him that we need to hear in all things, and whatsoever He shall say unto you?

As the angel of the Lord said, "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)

Stay tuned for the next post when we read how the captain of the temple, the priests, and the Sadducees also came against Peter and John, being grieved that they taught the people, preaching through Jesus the resurrection of the dead.

Stand in the offering plate.

At The Name Of Jesus, Every Knee Should Bow; Every Tongue Confess That Jesus Christ Is Lord - Part 2376

"Neither is there salvation in any other: for there is none other Name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved." (Acts 4:12)

"Wherefore God also hath highly exalted Him, and given Him a Name which is above every name: that at the Name of Jesus every knee should bow, of [things] in heaven, and [things] in earth, and [things] under the earth; and that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ [is] Lord, to the glory of God the Father." (Philippians 2:9-11)

Peter (standing with the eleven) on the day of Pentecost said, "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)

Jesus is His Name!

The lyrics from the song, "I lift Your Name on high" for your edification this day:

"Lord, I lift Your Name on high
Lord, I love to sing Your praises
I'm so glad You are in my life
I'm so glad You came to save us

You came from heaven to earth, to show the way
From the earth to the cross, my debt to pay
From the cross to the grave, from the grave to the sky
Lord, I lift Your Name on high." 

Praise Jesus as your Lord God and Saviour too. Stand in the offering plate. 

Rejoice Before Him -- A Father Of The Fatherless And A Judge Of The Widows Is God In His Holy Habitation - Part 2375

In prophecy, the Lord God declares, "The Spirit of the Lord God is upon Me; because the Lord hath anointed Me to preach good tidings unto the meek; He hath sent Me to bind up the brokenhearted, to proclaim liberty to the captives, and the opening of the prison to them that are bound ..." (Isaiah 61:1)

In the New Testament, Jesus opens the book to read, "The Spirit of the Lord is upon Me, because He hath anointed Me to preach the gospel to the poor; He hath sent Me to heal the brokenhearted, to preach deliverance to the captives, and recovering of sight to the blind, to set at liberty them that are bruised ..." (Luke 4:18) 

Jesus did not come to this earth as a happenstance. Rather, the Lord God spoke of an appointed time in the future when He Himself would bring salvation to those who are lost, shedding His precious, holy blood so that you and I might have life. (Acts 20:28) This mystery of the salvation (as the scriptures state) hid in the bosom of the Father from the very beginning. 

Indeed, throughout the Old Testament, in prophecy after prophecy, the Lord spoke of an appointed time when the dayspring from on high would visit His people. A time when the prophesied Messiah would stand in the midst of His people. A time when He who made the world would be in the world. (John 1:10-11) In fact, the same Christ (the Rock) which followed the Israelites through the Red Sea would willingly bring to you and I salvation, so that we could have abundant life in Him. (Titus 3:4-7; John 3:1-36)

"Emmanuel, being interpreted, God with us." (Matthew 1:21-23; I Corinthians 10:1-4)

Thus, as we know from the Old Testament, the Lord was about to do a new thing. (Hebrews 9:15-18) 

"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." (Isaiah 43:19) 

"Wherefore henceforth know we no man after the flesh: yea, though we have known Christ after the flesh, yet now henceforth know we [Him] no more. Therefore if any man [be] in Christ, he [is] a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new. And all things are of God, who hath reconciled us to Himself by Jesus Christ, and hath given to us the ministry of reconciliation; 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 5:14-19)

The Word made flesh and dwelt among us, so that we could behold His glory. (John 1:14)

All this to say that there is a significant difference between the Old Testament and the New Testament, which is highly misunderstood in modern day religious circles. Just remember, as we review the scriptures for clarity and understanding, that when we put the new wine into old wineskins they break/marred. 

"No man also seweth a piece of new cloth on an old garment: else the new piece that filled it up taketh away from the old, and the rent is made worse. And no man putteth new wine into old bottles: else the new wine doth burst the bottles, and the wine is spilled, and the bottles will be marred: but new wine must be put into new bottles." (Mark 2:21-22)

Continuing, we witness a changing of the guard (between the old and the new) 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)

In order for the new to take hold, the first had to go.  There also had to be the death of a testator, wherein there was shedding of blood for the remission of sins. From Hebrews and II Corinthians:

" ... how much more shall the blood of Christ, who through the eternal Spirit offered Himself without spot to God, purge your conscience from dead works to serve the living God? And for this cause, He is the mediator of the new testament, that by means of death, for the redemption of the transgressions that were under the first testament, they which are called might receive the promise of eternal inheritance. For where a testament [is], there must also of necessity be the death of the testator. For a testament [is] of force after men are dead: otherwise it is of no strength at all while the testator liveth. Whereupon neither the first [testament] was dedicated without blood." (Hebrews 9:14-18)

" ... 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." (II Corinthians 3:8-15)

Note that the reference to "ministration of condemnation" refers to the Old Testament, wherein the same vail that blinded the minds of the Israelites back then still remains to this day in the reading of the Old Testament. In contrast, the "ministration of the Spirit" is glorious, referring to the current New Testament dispensation of grace when the Spirit of the Lord Jesus was poured out on the day of Pentecost. (Acts 2:1-47; Acts 2:36-41; Acts 2:38; John 14:26; John 15:26) 

Yes, for a period of time such as this -- when the Lord Jesus said, "I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee." (Hebrews 13:5)

"But now hath he obtained a more excellent ministry, by how much also He is the mediator of a better covenant, which was established upon better promises." (Hebrews 8:6) 

The New Testament is a more excellent ministry. The New Testament a better covenant wherein we can witness God's glory that excels, ushering in a time when the ministration of righteousness will exceed in glory. As we know from the Old Testament, the law could not do what God becoming our Saviour did ... for the law was weak through the flesh and unprofitable to our souls. (Titus 3:4; I Timothy 3:16; Hebrews 7:18) Moreover, the law with its 600 plus dictates could not clothe us in His righteousness.

 

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

God robed Himself in sin-prone flesh as a Son, yet without sin. This is why the law is a schoolmaster, intended to bring us to the personal saving knowledge of the risen Christ. "Wherefore the law was our schoolmaster [to bring us] unto Christ, that we might be justified by faith. But after that faith is come, we are no longer under a schoolmaster. For ye are all the children of God by faith in Christ Jesus." (Galatians 3:24-26)

In the New Testament we see His righteousness revealed; His handiwork manifest throughout the earth so that we are without excuse for not desiring the Lord of glory to dwell in our hearts. And similarly, when we come to understand the excellency of the knowledge of Christ Jesus our Lord, we no longer have our own righteousness, which is of the law, but through faith in Jesus the Christ, we know Him and the power of His resurrection.

"Yea doubtless, and I count all things [but] loss for the excellency of the knowledge of Christ Jesus my Lord: for whom I have suffered the loss of all things, and do count them [but] dung, that I may win Christ, and be found in Him, not having mine own righteousness, which is of the law, but that which is through the faith of Christ, the righteousness which is of God by faith: that I may know Him, and the power of His resurrection, and the fellowship of His sufferings, being made conformable unto His death ..." (Philippians 3:8-13)

"Whom resist steadfast in the faith, knowing that the same afflictions are accomplished in your brethren that are in the world. But the God of all grace, who hath called us unto His eternal glory by Christ Jesus, after that ye have suffered a while, make you perfect, stablish, strengthen, settle [you]. To Him [be] glory and dominion for ever and ever. Amen." (I Peter 5:9-11)

So then, as some of you might be asking, what was the significance of the Old Testament? To bring us to Christ. Apostle Paul writes, "Wherefore then [serve] the law? It was added because of transgressions, till the Seed should come to whom the promise was made; [and it] was ordained by angels in the hand of a mediator." (Galatians 3:19) 

Till the Seed should come!

"But into the second [went] the high priest alone once every year, not without blood, which he offered for himself, and [for] the errors of the people: 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: which [was] a figure for the time then present, in which were offered both gifts and sacrifices, that could not make him that did the service perfect, as pertaining to the conscience;[which stood] only in meats and drinks, and divers washings, and carnal ordinances, imposed on them until the time of reformation. 

But Christ being come an high priest of good things to come, by a greater and more perfect tabernacle, not made with hands, that is to say, not of this building; neither by the blood of goats and calves, but by His own blood He entered in once into the holy place, having obtained eternal redemption [for us]. For if the blood of bulls and of goats, and the ashes of an heifer sprinkling the unclean, sanctifies to the purifying of the flesh: how much more shall the blood of Christ, who through the eternal Spirit offered Himself without spot to God, purge your conscience from dead works to serve the living God? And for this cause, He is the mediator of the new testament, that by means of death, for the redemption of the transgressions that were under the first testament, they which are called might receive the promise of eternal inheritance." (Hebrews 9:10-15) 

But Christ! 

The Old Testament continually points forward to Jesus -- the greatest love story ever told -- Behold, the Lamb of God! Indeed, Jesus ushered in the new testament. A different High Priest than the priests under the law in the Old Testament. The promised Christ that taketh away the sins of the world. As Jesus said, "Think not that I am come to destroy the law, or the prophets: I am not come to destroy, but to fulfil." (Matthew 5:17)

“If therefore perfection were by the Levitical priesthood [for under it the people received the law] what further need was there that another priest should rise after the order of Melchisedec, and not be called after the order of Aaron? For the priesthood being changed, there is made of necessity a change also of the law.” (Hebrews 7:11-12) 

And in Him -- Christ Jesus have we become complete. Our conscience cleansed and our minds renewed. Therefore, what the Old Testament could not do, Jesus in the new did -- accomplished by the washing of regeneration and renewing of the Holy Ghost. (Titus 2:3-6)  That being justified by His grace, we should be made heirs according to the hope of eternal life." (Titus 3:4-7) 

This is why apostle Paul confirms that we are to "beware lest any man spoil you through philosophy and vain deceit, after the tradition of men, after the rudiments of the world, and not after Christ. 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 2:8-10)

Paul continues in Romans -- “For as by one man’s disobedience many were made sinners, so by the obedience of One shall many be made righteous." (Romans 5:19) 

Because of Adam's transgression, all have sinned and fallen short of the glory of God. Under the law -- “For it is not possible that the blood of bulls and of goats should take away sins ... [wherein] every priest stands daily ministering and offering oftentimes the same sacrifices, which can never take away sins”. (Hebrews 10:4,11)

But don't despair for the Lord God Almighty made a plan for our salvation -- a bridge wherein we who believe in Him by faith, and are water baptized in His precious Name -- the Name of the Lord Jesus -- can be saved. (Acts 2:36-41)

"But now the righteousness of God without the law is manifested, being witnessed by the law and the prophets; even the righteousness of God [which is] by faith of Jesus Christ unto all and upon all them that believe: for there is no difference: for all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God; being justified freely by His grace through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus: whom God hath set forth to be a propitiation through faith in His blood, to declare His righteousness for the remission of sins that are past, through the forbearance of God; to declare, [I say], at this time His righteousness: that He might be just, and the justifier of Him which believes in Jesus." (Romans 3:21-26)

And again for clarity, what the Old Testament and the law could not do, Jesus did by paying the ultimate price -- with His precious holy blood shed on a cross -- so that you and I can have abundant life in Him. We can have forgiveness in Him; a personal relationship with our Creator where we can proclaim -- "The Lord is my Shepherd." We can know who supplies our needs, and the One and Only Lord God who gives us rest, restoring our soul, and guiding us in the paths of righteousness -- for His Name's sake. (Psalm 23:1-6) 

 

In this dispensation of grace, His Name is JESUS for He shall save His people from their sins. (Matthew 1:21)

“And now, little children, abide in Him; that, when He shall appear, we may have confidence, and not be ashamed before Him at His coming. ” (I John 2:28)

“Blessed are they that do His commandments, that they may have right to the tree of life, and may enter in through the gates into the city.” (Revelation 22:14)

  

Much more to come. In the interim, stand in the offering plate.

Jesus Said, "My Grace Is Sufficient For Thee; For My Strength Is Made Perfect In Weakness!" - Part 2374

“I, [even] I AM — He that blots out thy transgressions for Mine own sake, and will not remember thy sins. Put Me in remembrance ….” (Isaiah 43:25-26)

“Therefore, if any man be in Christ, [he is] a new creature; old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new. And all things [are] of God, who hath reconciled us to Himself by Jesus Christ, and hath given to us the ministry of reconciliation … to wit, that God was in Christ, reconciling the world unto Himself, not imputing their trespasses unto them; and hath committed unto us the Word of reconciliation.

Now then we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God did beseech [you] by us; we pray [you] in Christ’s stead, be ye reconciled to God. For He hath made Him [to be] sin that we might be made the righteousness of God in Him.” (II Corinthians 5:17-21)

If you think of a young child engaged in constructing a tall building with blocks, you will begin to understand how apostle Paul is presenting a similar building analogy to the saints at Corinth. Paul begins with a foundational truth — that all have sinned and come short of the glory of God. Paul then continues, bringing us next to that pivotal place whereby we understand being justified freely by His grace through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus. And similarly, that if any man be in Christ, he/she is a new creature. Translated further, this means old things — the things of this world have passed away, and all things are become new.

In speaking about being born again to Nicodemus, Jesus conveys a similar message. That is, “Verily, verily, I say unto thee, except a man be born again, he cannot see the Kingdom of God!” (John 3:3) Does this mean returning to our mother’s womb to be born again? Of course not. Rather, what Jesus is saying is that if we want to see the Kingdom of God, and enter therein, we must be born of the water and of the Spirit.

As Jesus said, “that which is born of the flesh is flesh and that which is born of the Spirit is spirit. Marvel not that I said unto thee, “Ye must be born again.” (John 3:1-21)

Thus, when we repent and are water baptized in the precious, holy Name of the Lord Jesus, we are clothed in His righteousness, having received the gift of the Holy Ghost. (Acts 2:36-41)

To as many as receive this same Jesus (who is both Lord and Christ), “to them gave He power to become the sons of God — 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; Acts 2:38)

In other words, God made a way of salvation, by reconciling us (His body of Christ church) to Himself, shedding His own precious, holy blood so that we might have abundant, everlasting life in Him. (Acts 20:28)

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

But the good news gospel message does not stop there. When the Holy Ghost overshadowed Mary so that she could bring forth a Son — God having robed Himself in flesh — He did so in order that you and I might have abundant life in Him. (Luke 1:35)

“Behold, a virgin shall be with child, and bring forth a son. and they shall call His Name Emmanuel, which being interpreted is, God with us. (Matthew 1:21-23; Isaiah 9:6)

For if, when we were enemies, we were reconciled to God by the death of His Son, much more, being reconciled, we shall be saved by His life. And not only so, but we also joy in God through our Lord Jesus Christ, by whom we have now received the atonement. (Romans 5:10-11)

“And having made peace through the blood of His cross, by Him to reconcile all things unto Himself; by Him, [I say], whether they be things in earth or things in heaven, and you, that were sometime alienated and enemies in [your] mind by wicked works, yet now hath He reconciled in the body of His flesh through death, to present you holy and un-blameable and un-reprovable in His sight. If ye continued in the faith grounded and settled and be not moved away from the hope of the gospel …” (Colossians 1:20-23)

As a result of God willingly becoming our Saviour — His salvation plan hid in His bosom from the very beginning, we now have “an advocate with the Father Jesus Christ the righteous, and He is the propitiation for our sins: and not for ours only, but also for [the sins of] the whole world.” (I John 2:2)

“But of Him are ye in Christ Jesus, who of God is made unto us wisdom, and righteousness, and sanctification, and redemption that, according as it is written, “he that glories, let him glory in the Lord!” (I Corinthians 1:30-31; Jeremiah 23:5-6; Jeremiah 9:23-24; II Corinthians 10:17)

“For therein is the righteousness of God revealed from faith to faith; as it is written, The just shall live by faith.” (Romans 1:17; Hebrews 2:4; Romans 3:21; Galatians 3:11)

Even so are we who believe in the Lord Jesus by faith — Christ’s. (II Corinthians 10:7)

Stand in the offering plate.

Every Word Of God Is Pure; He Is A Shield Unto Them That Put Their Trust In Him - Part 2373

In the last post, we considered how man-made religious statements of faith tend to replicate only a small portion of the scriptures, and therefore, are not encompassing/inclusive enough to be relied upon as the beginning and ending of our faith journey. As believers in faith, we are instructed to search the scriptures for His truth(s) — as it is written. We know from Jesus statement that He is the Way, the Truth, and the Life, and that no man can come to the Father but “by Jesus.” (John 14:6)

But then Jesus says, “If ye had known Me, ye should have known My Father also: and from henceforth ye know Him, and have seen Him.” Of course, herein, Philip saith unto Jesus, “Lord, shew us the Father and it suffices us.” Jesus said unto him, “Have I been so long time with you, and yet hast thou not known Me, Philip? he that hath seen Me hath seen the Father, and how sayest thou [then], “Shew us the Father?” (John 14:7-9)

From this perspective (and if we only rely on church statements of faith for our understanding), we would miss the greatest love story ever witnessed here on earth — that Jesus is God manifest in the flesh. (I Timothy 3:16) That He was in the world and the world was made by Him but the world knew Him not. He came unto His own and His own received Him not. (John 1:10-11) That the Word that was with God and was God was also made flesh. (John 1:1-14)

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

What do I mean?

Consider how “The Godhead” is introduced in most modern day religious statements of faith. Those which state that the Godhead exists eternally in three persons, being the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit. Then these go on to say these three equal one God, having the same nature and attributes and are worthy of the same homage, confidence and obedience.

First, this dogma is contrary to the first commandment in both the old and the new, which states, “Hear O Israel, the Lord thy God is One Lord …” (Deuteronomy 6:4; Mark 12:29-31)

Second, this man-made creed ignores that Jesus — after He was taken up — though the Holy Ghost gave commandments unto the apostles whom He had chosen. (Acts 1:2-3) The scriptures do not ever suggest that Jesus and the Holy Ghost were having a conversation together but rather — Jesus THROUGH the Holy Ghost.

Third, if we are to suggest that there are only three manifestations of God, do we then ignore when God stood in the tent with Abraham? Do we ignore that God appeared in the burning bush and spoke to Moses? If we believe “God is all in all” how does this translate into the fiery furnace and the Sermon on the Mount experiences? What do we do with apostle Paul who states the Rock which was Christ followed the Israelites through the Red Sea? (I Corinthians 10:1-4) In the end, are we not limiting God to what we can do? Sigh!

Fourth, do we now begin teaching our children that 3 equals 1 (and/or vice-versa) in an attempt to prove our man-made religious traditions supersede scriptural understanding?

II Timothy 3:16-17 tells us that “ALL scripture is given by inspiration of God and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness that the man of God may be perfect, thoroughly furnished unto all good works.”

II Peter 1:19-21 tells us that “we have a more sure word of prophet, where unto ye do well that ye take heed, as unto a light that shines in a dark place until the light 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.”

And from Psalm 119:160 — “Thy Word is true from the beginning, and everyone of Thy righteous judgments [endures] forever.”

Jesus Himself said, “Think not that I AM come to destroy the law, or the prophets, I AM not come to destroy but to fulfill …” (Matthew 5:17-18)

Apostle Paul (formerly Saul) writes, “Now we have received, not the spirit of the world but the Spirit which is of God; that we might know the things that are freely given to us of God; which things also we speak, not in the words which man’s wisdom teaches, but which the Holy Ghost teaches, comparing spiritual things with spiritual.

But the natural man receives not the things of the Spirit of God; for they are foolishness unto him; neither can he know [them]; because they are spiritually discerned. But he that is spiritual judges all things; yet he himself is judged of no man/ For who hath known the mind of the Lord that he may instruct Him? But we have the mind of Christ.” (I Corinthians 2:12-16)

And when we have the mind of Christ, we should desire to know Him better. That includes knowing that the mystery that was held in the bosom of the Father from the very beginning — the mystery of Godliness is clearly defined in I Timothy 3:16.

“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)

“So then after the Lord [Jesus] had spoken unto them, He [Jesus] was received up into heaven and sat on the right hand of God” until His enemies are put under His feet. Then, as we understand from Revelation, He will give to us a new name. (Mark 16:19)

“And the Word was made flesh and dwelt among us (and we beheld His glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father) full of grace and truth.” (John 1:14)

“Who being the brightness of [His] glory, and the express image of His person, and upholding all things by the Word of His power, when He had by Himself purged our sins, sat down on the right hand of the Majesty on high …” (Hebrews 1:3)

The Greatest Love Story ever told! One God who loved us enough in the beginning to shed His precious, holy blood on a cross for you and I. (Acts 20:28)

More to come on this subject. Stand in the offering plate.

This Day Is This Scripture Fulfilled In Your Ears; The Fear Of The Lord Is The Beginning Of Knowledge - Part 2372

"They say unto him, "He will miserably destroy those wicked men, and will let out [His] vineyard unto other husbandmen, which shall render him the fruits in their seasons." Jesus saith unto them, "Did ye never read in the scriptures -- The stone which the builders rejected, the same is become the head of the corner: this is the Lord’s doing, and it is marvellous in our eyes? Therefore say I unto you, The kingdom of God shall be taken from you, and given to a nation bringing forth the fruits thereof." (Matthew 21:41-43)

And Jesus answering said unto them, "Do ye not therefore err, because ye know not the scriptures, neither the power of God?" (Mark 12:24)

"... ye also, as lively stones, are built up a spiritual house, an holy priesthood, to offer up spiritual sacrifices, acceptable to God by Jesus Christ. Wherefore also it is contained in the scripture, "Behold, I lay in Sion a chief corner stone, elect, precious: and he that believes on Him shall not be confounded." Unto you therefore which believe [He is] precious: but unto them which be disobedient, the stone which the builders disallowed, the same is made the head of the corner." (I Peter 2:5-7)

"... knowing this first, that no prophecy of the scripture is of any private interpretation." (II Peter 1:20)

"... as also in all [His] epistles, speaking in them of these things; in which are some things hard to be understood, which they that are unlearned and unstable wrest, as [they do] also the other scriptures, unto their own destruction." (II Peter 3:16)

How many times have we adhered to the statements of faith emerging from man-made religious culture without knowing what the scriptures actually state? For example, we know "all Scripture is given by inspiration of God." But do we know where in the scriptures these words are spoken? Have we taken the time to recognize that there is more to this scripture than this one specific statement?  Have we read for ourselves the context so that our understanding is complete, so that as men and women of God, we may be perfect, thoroughly furnished unto all good works? From II Timothy:

"But continue thou in the things which thou hast learned and hast been assured of, knowing of whom thou hast learned [them]; and that from a child thou hast known the holy scriptures, which are able to make thee wise unto salvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus. All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and [is] profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: that the man of God may be perfect, thoroughly furnished unto all good works." (II Timothy 3:14-18)

Remaining steadfast in the apostles' doctrine. (Acts 2:36-47) 

The part of the scripture that is missing in the statement of faith -- " ...  and [is] profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: that the man of God may be perfect, thoroughly furnished unto all good works."

Where do we find our understanding of doctrine? From Acts 2:36-41 (marking the beginning of the New Testament body of Christ church) and Hebrews 6:1-3: "Therefore leaving the principles of the doctrine of Christ, let us go on unto perfection; not laying again the foundation of repentance from dead works, and of faith toward God, of the doctrine of baptisms, and of laying on of hands, and of resurrection of the dead, and of eternal judgment. And this will we do, if God permit."

For reproof? The Lord states in Proverbs, "Turn you at My reproof: behold, I will pour out My Spirit unto you, I will make known My words unto you." (Proverbs 1:23; II Timothy 3:16)

For correction? "But thou shalt say unto them -- This is a nation that obeys not the voice of the Lord their God, nor receives correction: truth is perished, and is cut off from their mouth." (Jeremiah 7:28; II Timothy 3:16) 

For instruction in righteousness? "... to know wisdom and instruction; to perceive the words of understanding; to receive the instruction of wisdom, justice, and judgment, and equity; to give subtilty to the simple, to the young man knowledge and discretion. A wise man will hear, and will increase learning; and a man of understanding shall attain unto wise counsels: to understand a proverb, and the interpretation; the words of the wise, and their dark sayings. The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge: [but] fools despise wisdom and instruction." (Proverbs 1:2-7)

What is the doctrine of Christ? 

When we come to the understanding that this same Jesus who walked the earth -- after He ascended (was taken up) He [Jesus] through the Holy Ghost gave commandments unto the apostles whom He [Jesus] had chosen. (Acts 1:2-3) This same Jesus whom ye/we have crucified is now both Lord and Christ. (Acts 2:36) God manifest in the flesh. (I Timothy 3:16) Emmanuel, being interpreted, God with us. (Matthew 1:21-23)

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

And how does the doctrine of Christ relate to our salvation?

"Whosoever transgresses, and abides not in the doctrine of Christ, hath not God; he that abides in the doctrine of Christ, he hath both the Father and the Son." (II John 1:9; Hebrews 6:1-2)

When we search the scriptures for the truth -- this same Jesus who is the Way, the Truth, and the Life -- we come to also understand how much the Lord God loved us to willingly become our Saviour too. 

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

This is why in this current dispensation of grace, His precious, holy Name is JESUS, for He shall save His people from their sins. (Matthew 1:21) Not another God but the one and same God who created us in the beginning, who formed us within our mother's womb, robed Himself in sin-prone flesh (but without sin) so that we might have abundant life in Him.

It is herein that we know the scriptures to be true, infallible, absolutely supreme and sufficient in authority in all matters of faith and practice. But it is also wherein we should come to the knowledge and understanding that these truths are founded in the Word -- the same Word that was made flesh and dwelt among us. (John 1:1-18; John 1:10-11) 

As such, heeding man's religious creed won't save us. Rather, we who profess to believe in the Lord Jesus by faith need to return to the One and Only source of the inspired scriptures, so that we will know that when the Holy Ghost dwells within,  we also have the Author and Finisher of our faith -- the King of kings and Lord of lords, Alpha and Omega, the first and the last, the beginning and the ending leading and guiding us into all truth.

His Name JESUS. 

Stand in the offering plate. 

Finding Life In Jesus; No Other Name Whereby We Must Be Saved - Part 2371

"Silver and gold have I none; but such as I have give I thee -- In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth rise up and walk." (Acts 3:6)

As you can imagine, this was causing quite a stir, that a certain man lame from his mother's womb was healed. Herein, Peter and John had went up together into the temple at the hour of prayer, being the ninth hour. Every day the man had been laid at the gate of the temple, which is called Beautiful, to ask alms of them that entered into the temple. When Peter and John were about to go into the temple, the man asked them for alms. Peter and John told the man to "Look on us!" and when he did, Peter said, "Silver and gold have I none but such as I have give I thee ... in the Name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, rise up and walk." (Acts 3:1-6) 

At this point, Peter takes the man by the right hand, and lifts him up, and immediately his feet and ankle bones received strength. Note the healing was immediate. And the man, leaping up stood, and walked, and entered into the temple with them, walking and leaping and praising God. (Acts 3:7-8)

"And all the people saw him walking and praising God: and they knew that it was he which sat for alms at the Beautiful gate of the temple: and they were filled with wonder and amazement at that which had happened unto him. And as the lame man which was healed held Peter and John, all the people ran together unto them in the porch that is called Solomon’s, greatly wondering.

And when Peter saw [it], he answered unto the people, "Ye men of Israel, why marvel ye at this? Or why look ye so earnestly on us, as though by our own power or holiness we had made this man to walk? The God of Abraham, and of Isaac, and of Jacob, the God of our fathers, hath glorified His Son Jesus; whom ye delivered up, and denied Him in the presence of Pilate, when He was determined to let [Him] go. But ye denied the Holy One and the Just, and desired a murderer to be granted unto you; and killed the Prince of life, whom God hath raised from the dead; whereof we are witnesses. And His name through faith in His Name hath made this man strong, whom ye see and know: yea, the faith which is by him hath given him this perfect soundness in the presence of you all. And now, brethren, I wot that through ignorance ye did [it], as [did] also your rulers. But those things, which God before had shewed by the mouth of all His prophets, that Christ should suffer, He hath so fulfilled.

Repent ye therefore, and be converted, that your sins may be blotted out, when the times of refreshing shall come from the presence of the Lord; and He shall send Jesus Christ, which before was preached unto you: whom the heaven must receive until the times of restitution of all things, which God hath spoken by the mouth of all His holy prophets since the world began. For Moses truly said unto the fathers, "A prophet shall the Lord your God raise up unto you of your brethren, like unto me; Him shall ye hear in all things whatsoever He shall say unto you. And it shall come to pass, [that] every soul, which will not hear that prophet, shall be destroyed from among the people.

Yea, and all the prophets from Samuel and those that follow after, as many as have spoken, have likewise foretold of these days. Ye are the children of the prophets, and of the covenant which God made with our fathers, saying unto Abraham, "And in thy seed shall all the kindreds of the earth be blessed. Unto you first God, having raised up His Son Jesus, sent Him to bless you, in turning away every one of you from his iniquities." (Acts 3:1-26)

A couple of points worth noting. We know that the priests, and the captain of the temple, and the Sadducee's were grieved that they taught the people, and preached through Jesus the resurrection from the dead. (Acts 4:1-2) As such, one has to wonder "who" put the man that was lame from birth at the gate -- to beg for alms from those entering into the temple.

As well, note that it was the man's faith that brought soundness to the man's body. "And His name through faith in His Name hath made this man strong ..." It was not Peter and John who healed the man but the same God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob  -- the God of their fathers whom glorified His Son Jesus who healed them -- the resurrected Christ. 

Interestingly, the man (who we later find out was actually 40 years lame) went directly to the temple praising God. Also of consequence is that this man knew the Name of Jesus to be the very Name that God had given to us by the angel -- for this current dispensation of grace. (Matthew 1:21-23) It is no wonder that the man was made strong through His Name -- the precious holy Name of Jesus -- through faith in His Name. 

But Peter does not stop there. In fact, Peter uses this situation as a teaching moment. Similar to Peter's message on the day of Pentecost, Peter reminds those who marvelled, that this same Jesus whom ye crucified is both Lord and Christ. Him shall ye hear in all things whatsoever He shall say unto you. The prophets from afore had pointed to this moment in time. John the baptizer also had instructed those in the temple to "hear ye Him." 

Behold, the Lamb of God!

"Yea, and all the prophets from Samuel and those that follow after, as many as have spoken, have likewise foretold of these days. Ye are the children of the prophets, and of the covenant which God made with our fathers, saying unto Abraham, "And in thy seed shall all the kindreds of the earth be blessed. Unto you first God, having raised up His Son Jesus, sent Him to bless you, in turning away every one of you from his iniquities." (Acts 3:1-26)

This same Jesus did not come to destroy but to bless them -- you and I -- when we turn away every one of us from our iniquities. But they continued to deny Holy One and the Just, and desired a murderer to be granted instead, and killed the Prince of life, whom God hath raised from the dead; whereof Peter and John are witnesses.

At this point, the priests, and the captain of the temple, and the Sadducee's could have repented of their sins, and recognized the good deed done to the impotent man -- that he is now made whole. Sadly, this was not the case. 

As Peter filled with the Holy Ghost said to them, "Ye rulers of the people, and elders of Israel, if we this day be examined of the good deed done to the impotent man, by what means he is made whole; be it known unto you all, and to all the people of Israel, that by the Name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, whom ye crucified, whom God raised from the dead, [even] by Him doth this man stand here before you whole. This is the stone which was set at nought of you builders, which is become the head of the corner. Neither is there salvation in any other: for there is none other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved." (Acts 4:8-12)

The only Name whereby we can have salvation is through the Name of the Lord Jesus. As Peter said, Jesus is the only name whereby we must be saved. No other Name under heaven. And this is the same Jesus which the builders had rejected, the stone (Rock) that was set at nought -- which is become the head of the corner. 

One final point. Peter said to them -- this is the stone which was set at nought "of you" builders. These who were rulers in the temple were supposed to be grounded scripturally upon His Word but instead pushed His Word -- the man Christ Jesus -- to the sidelines. In their hearts, Jesus was not who He said He was. Nevertheless, this same Jesus (the Rock which was Christ) has become the head of the corner -- the Head of the body of Christ church.

Moreover, as Jesus said, " ... he that finds his life shall lose it: and he that loses his life for My sake shall find it." (Matthew 10:39)

Yes, Jesus is our hope of salvation. The King of kings and Lord of lords, Alpha and Omega, the first and the last, the beginning and the ending. 

Stand in the offering plate.

Let Not Your Heart Be Troubled; If I Go And Prepare A Place For You, I Will Come Again - Part 2370

"The heavens declare the glory of God; and the firmament shews His handiwork. Day unto day utters speech, and night unto night shews knowledge." (Psalm 19:1-2)

In the book of Revelation (the last book in the New Testament / Bible) one of the elders answered, saying unto me, "What are these which are arrayed in white robes? And, whence came they?" And I said unto him, "Sir, thou knowest." And he said to me, "These are they which came out of great tribulation, and have washed their robes, and made them white in the blood of the Lamb. Therefore, are they before the throne of God, and serve Him day and night in His temple: and He that sitteth on the throne shall dwell among them. They shall hunger no more, neither thirst any more; neither shall the sun light on them, nor any heat. For the Lamb which is in the midst of the throne shall feed them, and shall lead them unto living fountains of waters: and God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes." (Revelation 7:13-18) 

This is the Lord's promise to His people -- that when we abide in Him, we shall hunger no more. Neither will we thirst because the Lamb which is in the midst of the throne shall feed us, and lead us unto living fountains of water. God shall wipe all the tears from our eyes, because we know in whom we serve.

Often in the scriptures, the Lord invites us to choose life. Even more so, He is inviting us to choose life in Him -- our Lord God and Saviour Jesus the Christ. In other words, we should not be settling for the things of this earth as our end game because there is so much more. 

Jesus said to His disciples, "Let not your heart be troubled: ye believe in God, believe also in Me. In My Father’s house are many mansions: if [it were] not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto Myself; that where I AM, [there] ye may be also." (John 14:1-2)

Question -- have you washed your robes and been made white in the blood of the Lamb? Do you have a good conscience toward God, by the resurrection of Jesus Christ?

"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)

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

After we repent (wherein the Lord Jesus becomes both Lord and Christ in our hearts and minds), we are to be water baptized in the precious holy Name of the Lord Jesus for the remission of sins so that we shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost. This is salvation which leads to eternal life -- when we come to know Jesus, and are willing to take on His Name -- as the first 3,000 souls did on the day of Pentecost.

Therein, when the first 3,000 asked Peter (standing with the eleven) "What must we do?" Peter said, "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 2:36-47) And those that "gladly" received the Word were baptized -- washing their robes and being made white in the blood of the Lamb, putting on His robe of righteousness.

This is our life decision that determines our spiritual future. If you know the Lord Jesus as the King of kings and Lord of lords, rejoice for our salvation draws nigh. If you do not know Jesus as your Saviour, ask Him to come into your heart today. Find a "New Testament" Bible and begin reading. Ask the Lord Jesus to guide your steps, and to lead you in the days and months to come. And know, that whatever comes your way, He already has it covered ... for He is so faithful to those whose eyes are upon Him.

Be blessed this day. Stand in the offering plate.  

There Is No Fear In Love; But Perfect Love Casts Out All Fear - Part 2369

"Before the mountains were brought forth, or ever Thou hadst formed the earth and the world, even from everlasting to everlasting, Thou art God. For a thousand years in Thy sight are but as yesterday when it is past, and as a watch in the night." (Psalm 90:2-4)

This should be the confidence of believers within the body of Christ church -- that The Lord Jesus who loved us so much, this same Jesus who shed His precious, holy blood on a cross -- He is God! And also, that He is faithful. But that boldness and understanding comes from knowing the Lord Jesus personally -- as both Lord and Christ in our hearts. (Acts 2:36) But sometimes, we need to be prompted [reminded] of who we are in the Lord. This was the situation with the disciples in a ship, when the seas were so rough that they thought they were going to die.

"And His disciples came to Him, and awoke Him, saying, "Lord, save us: we perish." And He saith unto them, "Why are ye fearful, O ye of little faith?" Then he arose, and rebuked the winds and the sea; and there was a great calm. But the men marvelled, saying, "What manner of man is this, that even the winds and the sea obey Him!" (Matthew 8:25-27)

You see, after the resurrection of Jesus, the apostles eyes were opened to the fact that Jesus is the only Way, the Truth, and the Life, and that once we have seen Jesus, we have seen the Father also and are privileged to know Him. (John 14:6-12) 

That He is faithful to those who believe in Him. So much so, that the Lord Jesus said, "I will never leave thee nor forsake thee." (Hebrews 13:5) This is the promise to His people! That "there is no fear in love; but perfect love casteth out fear ..." (I John 4:18) 

Jesus is the Good Shepherd who willingly laid down His life for His sheep. We also know that whosoever is born of God sins not [all unrighteousness is sin]; but he that is begotten of God keeps himself/herself and that the wicked on touches him/her not. Indeed, we know that were are of God, even when the whole world lies in wickedness against us. And we also should know that the Son of God (God as a Son) is already come and hath given us an understanding that we may know Him that is true; that we are in Him that is true; in His Son Jesus Christ -- who is the true God and eternal life. (I John 5:18-20) 

It is for this reason that we keep ourselves from idols. (I John 5:21; I Corinthians 10:7, 14) 

So how do we recognize when the spiritual blinders have not been removed? There are several markers which we can use, including those who fail to recognize the difference between the old and New Testament. 

"... 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." (II Corinthians 3:13-16)

A second sign is fear, because the spirit of fear should not inhabit the Lord's people -- who have repented and been water baptized in the precious holy Name of the Lord Jesus and are subsequently filled with the Holy Ghost. Because when we are water baptized in the Name of the Lord Jesus, we become clothed in His righteousness. (Acts 2:36-41; Acts 10:44-48; Romans 6:3-4) Our conscience clear because of we have acted in good faith toward Him. (I Peter 3:21)

Elisha's servant is a perfect example. (II Kings 6:8-18) The servant had woken one morning to find the city surrounded by a great host of enemy soldiers. The servant full of fear asks Elisha "Alas, my master, how shall we do? What does Elisha do? First, he does not respond in fear, but simply states, "Fear not; for they that be with us are more than they that be with them." (II Kings 6:16) 

While the intent of the enemies was to arrest the prophet Elisha, the prophet saw the spiritual side of what was happening. Thus, Elisha was not afraid of the circumstances because he trusted the Lord God for the outcome. Nor was the fear of the servant going to sway him either. So what happens next?

Elisha prays a simple prayer for him, saying, ‘LORD, I pray Thee, open his eyes, that he may see." And the LORD opens the eyes of the young man; and he saw, and, behold, the mountain was full of horses and chariots of fire round about Elisha. (II Kings 6:17)

What else happens? When God opened the servant's eyes, his fear disappeared. The man's confidence in the Lord God returned. The situation that originally seemed hopeless -- against all odds took on a different perspective, knowing that the Lord God is the Author and Finisher, and He doesn't ever forsake His people. 

"For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind." (II Timothy 1:7)

"For ye have not received the spirit of bondage again to fear; but ye have received the Spirit of adoption, whereby we cry, Abba, Father." (Romans 8:15)

"Having therefore these promises, dearly beloved, let us cleanse ourselves from all filthiness of the flesh and spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of God." (II Corinthians 7:1)

"... and many of the brethren in the Lord, waxing confident by my bonds, are much more bold to speak the Word without fear." (Philippians 1:14) 

So that we too (as did Elisha and the servant) may boldly say, "The Lord is my helper, and I will not fear what man shall do unto me." (Hebrews 13:6) 

"But sanctify the Lord God in your hearts: and be ready always to give an answer to every man that asks you a reason of the hope that is in you with meekness and fear:" (I Peter 3:15)

" ... in singleness of heart, fearing God!" (Colossians 3:22)

Stand in the offering plate.

For In Thee, O Lord, Do I Hope, Thou Wilt Hear O Lord my God! - Part 2368

"Let all those that seek Thee rejoice and be glad in Thee: let such as love Thy salvation say continually, "The Lord be magnified." But I [am] poor and needy; yet the Lord thinks upon me; Thou art my help and my deliverer; make no tarrying, O my God!" (Psalm 40:16-17)

Peter, an apostle of Jesus Christ is writing to the strangers scattered throughout Pontus, Galatia, Cappadocia, Asia and Bithynia; the elect according to the foreknowledge of God the Father, through the sanctification of the Spirit, unto obedience and sprinkling of the blood of Jesus Christ. Herein, Peter is speaking about the Lord our God's abundant mercy which 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 fades 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 ..." (I Peter 1:1-6)

Herein, Peter is giving timely instruction to believers, alluding to the importance of rejoicing (even in persecution) because we are partakers of Christ's sufferings, so that when His glory shall be revealed, we may be glad also with exceeding joy. (I Peter 4:13) Similarly, that we should not think it strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you, as though some strange thing happened unto you.

By I Peter chapter 5, Peter is instructing the body of Christ church how to be ensembles to the flock, so that whey the chief Shepherd shall appear, ye shall receive a crown of glory that will not fade away.

"The elders which are among you I exhort, who am also an elder, and a witness of the sufferings of Christ, and also a partaker of the glory that shall be revealed: feed the flock of God which is among you, taking the oversight [thereof], not by constraint, but willingly; not for filthy lucre, but of a ready mind; neither as being lords over God’s heritage, but being ensamples to the flock. And when the chief Shepherd shall appear, ye shall receive a crown of glory that fadeth not away.

Likewise, ye younger, submit yourselves unto the elder. Yea, all [of you] be subject one to another, and be clothed with humility: for God resists the proud, and giveth grace to the humble. Humble yourselves therefore under the mighty hand of God, that He may exalt you in due time: casting all your care upon Him; for He cares for you.

Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour: whom resist steadfast in the faith, knowing that the same afflictions are accomplished in your brethren that are in the world. But the God of all grace, who hath called us unto His eternal glory by Christ Jesus, after that ye have suffered a while, make you perfect, stablish, strengthen, settle [you]. To Him [be] glory and dominion for ever and ever. Amen." (I Peter 5:1-11)

Peace [be] with you all that are in Christ Jesus. Amen. Stand in the offering plate.

Stand In The Offering Plate With Jesus; Let Him Fill You With Peace And Joy - Part 2367

" ... that Christ may dwell in your hearts by faith; that ye, being rooted and grounded in love, may be able to comprehend with all saints what is the breadth, and length, and depth, and height; and to know the love of Christ, which passes knowledge, that ye might be filled with all the fullness of God." (Ephesians 3:17-19)

In Acts 8, we see a certain man named Simon (who before had bewitched the people with sorceries) wanting to pay for the Holy Ghost. 

"Then Philip went down to the city of Samaria, and preached Christ unto them. And the people with one accord gave heed unto those things which Philip spake, hearing and seeing the miracles which he did. For unclean spirits, crying with loud voice, came out of many that were possessed with them: and many taken with palsies, and that were lame, were healed. And there was great joy in that city. 

But there was a certain man, called Simon, which before time in the same city used sorcery, and bewitched the people of Samaria, giving out that himself was some great one: to whom they all gave heed, from the least to the greatest, saying, "This man is the great power of God." And to him they had regard, because that of long time he had bewitched them with sorceries. 

But 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. Then Simon himself believed also: and when he was baptized, he continued with Philip, and wondered, beholding the miracles and signs which were done.

Now when the apostles which were at Jerusalem heard that Samaria had received the Word of God, they sent unto them Peter and John: who, when they were come down, prayed for them, that they might receive the Holy Ghost:  (for as yet he was fallen upon none of them: only they were baptized in the Name of the Lord Jesus). Then laid they their hands on them, and they received the Holy Ghost." (Acts 8:5-17)
Peter's response to Simon who thought the gift of the Holy Ghost could be purchased with money was that his money would perish along with him for even thinking such a thought. Peter's summation was simple. He said,  "I perceive that you are still in the bond of iniquity." Yes, there are still some things that even money can't buy. Salvation is one of them. Why? Because God does not require your money. The cattle on a thousand hills are His. So is all of the earth and its inhabitants.

But when it was written, that the love of money is the root of all evil, there was a message there. A lesson. It also offers a rationale as to why believers are admonished when giving. When giving, we are to give as unto the Lord, not grudgingly because we think we have to nor of necessity, but out of appreciation for all that God has given us.  God loves a cheerful giver. Abraham, when met by the priest of the most high God, who brought nothing more than bread and wine to this meeting, blessed Abraham with these. The blessings were so sufficient. In fact, more than sufficient to suffice is the bread and wine, symbolical of the life of Jesus. Our salvation was purchased with the life and blood of God’s spirit manifested in the flesh.

Remember again the words of Peter. When asked for money, Peter said that "silver and gold I have none but what I do have, I give to you. In the name of Jesus (the Christ), rise up and walk." Note that our salvation was not purchased with silver and gold.  Rather, you have been bought with a price. Therefore, we ought to glorify God in our mortal body, which is no longer our own. When we repent and are water baptized in the precious holy Name of the Lord Jesus, we become clothed in His righteousness. (Acts 2:36-41; Romans 6:3-4) We are now a habitation of God’s Spirit. The kingdom of God is not meat and drink. The kingdom of God is righteousness and joy and peace in His holy Spirit.

Paul made a very fitting statement that is equally applicable in today's society. After his departing, Paul said that grievous wolves would enter in among the flock of believers, not sparing the flock. Paul further states that even among your own selves shall men rise, speaking perverse things to draw away disciples after themselves. Paul reminds the assembled elders that for three years he warned them, night and day with tears that this consequence would be forthcoming. In fact, Paul repeatedly warned that the elders should take care of the flock over which the Holy Ghost has made them overseers. He instructed the elders to feed the church of God, which He has purchased with His own blood.

"... men filled with the Holy Ghost and wisdom."

This is why we who believe are a new nation taken out of all nations. We enter into God’s salvation, where there is no preferential treatment.  We enter into God's salvation regardless of gender, male or female, or whether we are in bondage or free in our personal circumstances. We enter into God's salvation regardless of whether we are Jew or Gentile. We are all one in Jesus. We are all members of the body of Christ church -- our glorious liberty purchased by Him who alone is worthy. When we enter into God's salvation, we become the inheritors of eternal life. This is the covenant I will make with them.

The early believers continued steadfastly in the teachings of the Holy Ghost, being delivered to us by those chosen by Him to be His witnesses to the uttermost part the earth. Delivering this gospel to a dying world really requires little or no money. It requires only that you and I testify concerning Him who loves us and now lives in our circumcised hearts. Let us therefore preach to the "whosoever" that the scriptures speak about in John 3:16. Freely you have received, and as a consequence, so likewise should you freely give.

Stand in the offering plate with Jesus. 

Making The Word Of God Of None Effect Through Your Tradition, Which Ye Lord Have Delivered - Part 2366

"I know, and am persuaded by the Lord Jesus, that [there is] nothing unclean of itself: but to him that esteems any thing to be unclean, to him [it is] unclean." (Romans 14:14)

And he said unto them, "Ye know how that it is an unlawful thing for a man that is a Jew to keep company, or come unto one of another nation; but God hath shewed me that I should not call any man common or unclean." (Acts 10:28)

"Then came together unto Jesus the Pharisees, and certain of the scribes which came from Jerusalem and when they saw some of His disciples eat bread with defiled, that is to say, with unwashed hands, they found fault. For the Pharisees and all the Jews, except they wash [their] hands oft, eat not, holding the tradition of the elders. And [when they come] from the market, except they wash, they eat not.

And many other things there be, which they have received to hold, as the washing of cups, and pots, brazen vessels, and of tables. Then the Pharisees and scribes asked Jesus, "Why walk not Thy disciples according to the tradition of the elders, but eat bread with unwashed hands?"

Jesus answered and said unto them, "Well hath Esaias [Isaiah] prophesied of you hypocrites, as it is written, "This people honours Me with their lips, but their heart is far from Me. Howbeit in vain do they worship Me, teaching for doctrines the commandments of men. For laying aside the commandment of God, ye hold the tradition of men, as the washing of pots and cups and many other things such like things ye do."

And Jesus said unto them, "Full well ye reject the commandments of God, that ye may keep your own tradition ..." (Mark 7:1-9)

In these scriptures, there is a lot going on, including questions of authority.  Herein, the scribes (which had travelled from Jerusalem -- a considerable distance away) had joined the Pharisees in finding fault with Jesus' disciples. They had witnessed some of Jesus' disciples eat bread with unwashed hands. Of course, the condemnation was not really about the unwashed hands, but rather that Jesus' disciples would not submit to the man-made authority of the traditional church. To address this, the scribes and Pharisees criticized the disciples actions to Jesus, "for the Pharisees and all the Jews, except they wash [their] hands oft, eat not, holding the tradition of the elders." (Mark 7:3)

Putting this into a 'then' perspective, we understand that when the scribes and Pharisees would come from the market, except they wash, they could not eat. "And many other things there be, which they have received to hold, as the washing of cups and pots, brazen vessels and of tables." (Mark 7:4) 

Thus, because the disciples had not submitted to the religious customs (traditions?) of the day, the scribes and Pharisees labelled the disciples as unworthy; defiled. In actuality, these wanted to interpose their authority and the traditions of the elders onto the disciples bringing them into bondage. But they did not stop there. These brought a complaint to the disciples' Master, hoping that in doing so, Jesus would force His disciples to conform to the rites and ceremonies of the church.

This is consistent throughout the gospels, wherein, as Jesus oft told the scribes and Pharisees they have a zeal, but their zeal is in the wrong game. These focused on the authority (antiquity?) of the church with its add-on, man-made religious dogma, referring often to the councils and fathers for their knowledge, but not for the very same Lord Jesus who stood in front of them.  

So the Pharisees and scribes then ask Jesus, "Why walk not Thy disciples according to the tradition of the elders but eat bread with unwashed hands?" (Mark 7:5)

As we know from this example, the disciples were not willing to submit to the authority (and power) of an earthly church. Neither were the disciples willing to conform to the ceremonious traditions of men. But this is not the only issue going on. The scribes and Pharisees did not come to Jesus to ask Him why the disciples do not do as they do but instead, "Why walk not Thy disciples according to the tradition of the elders?" (Mark 7:5)

These wanted the disciples to comply with their man-made authority ... the traditions of men. But instead, Jesus frees His disciples from man-made customs and traditions of men, because as we know, He came to set the captives free. In other words, when Jesus shed His precious, holy blood on a cross for you and I, He not only set aside the law (as some would have us believe) but Jesus fulfilled the law, delegating the law only as a "schoolmaster" to bring us to Christ. In other words, the law was so that we would recognize that all have sinned and fallen short of the glory of God, and as such, we needed a Saviour. The veil was torn from heaven to earth, from top to bottom because the Lord our God made a way of salvation for us, when there was no way. But I digress somewhat.

Note that the Lord is not saying we should not wash our hands (for cleanliness' sake) but that by making a religion out of cleansing the outside, we miss the point of His salvation message -- wherein the Lord cleanses us on the inside. At the end of the day, washing our hands will not save our souls.

But there is yet another message in Mark 7. That is, the religious of that day did not stop with compliance in washing one's hands before eating but added "the washing of cups, and pots, and brazen vessels, and of tables" as a means of purifying the Jews. (Mark 7:4; Matthew 23:25; John 2:6) Sadly, we see much of the same mentality within the walls of the modern day religious culture today. We who believe are being asked to submit to religious impositions and traditions as if these complied with the life-giving Word the Lord gave us.

Because religious pomp and ceremony, and rules applied without any scriptural foundation, combined with the traditions of men cannot ever supersede the grace and kindness that led to the Dayspring visiting His people. That God Himself would take on the form of man so that we might have everlasting life in Him.

"He was in the world and the world was made by Him but the world knew Him not. He came unto His own and His own received Him not." (John 1:10-11; I Timothy 3:16)

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

For clarity, we are not suggesting that the disciples were not aware of the religious customs, but rather, the disciples were not going to submit to an authority outside of their Lord God and Saviour. [Taking this thought one step further, perhaps, the disciples were aware that the scribes and Pharisees were watching them, looking for a reason to condemn (criticize) their Lord and Master, and thus, decidedly took advantage of their opportunity to show their Christ-given liberty. Mark doesn't specifically allude to this.]

Taking the washing/cleansing theme one step further -- from the earthly to the spiritual, we need to also understand that we are incapable of cleansing ourselves from sin, for all have sinned and fallen short of the glory of God. Rather, each and every one of us need to repent of our sin, be water baptized in the precious, Holy Name of the Lord Jesus -- in answer of a good conscience toward Him -- and to receive His gift of the Holy Ghost -- His righteousness dwelling within. (Acts 2:36-41; Acts 10:44-48; Romans 6:3-4; I Peter 3:21)

It is here that the Pharisees and scribes erred, because their heart desires were about building an earthly kingdom, and not seeking the Kingdom of God with all their hearts, souls, minds and strength. (Deuteronomy 6:4; Mark 12:29-31)

What does Jesus say to them?

"Well hath Esaias [Isaiah] prophesied of you hypocrites; as it is written, "This people honours Me with [their] lips, but their heart is far from Me. Howbeit in vain do they worship Me, teaching [for] doctrines the commandments of men. For laying aside the commandment of God, [ye] hold the tradition of men, as the washing of pots and cups; and many others such like things [ye] do." (Mark 7:6-8)

Did Jesus stop there? No, He continued telling them that "full well, ye reject the commandment of God, that ye may keep your own tradition ... making the Word of God of none effect through your tradition, which ye have delivered, and many such like things do ye."

Here the religious scribes and Pharisees were presenting themselves as holy and yet this was not their heart motive. Some might even suggest that this was the furthest thing in their minds. Nevertheless, the point is the Lord God in whom they claimed to desire (worship) was not their priority but rather, their religious, ceremonious exercises. As a consequence, these worshipped God in vain. Thus, Jesus is reproving them for replacing His teachings with their own "cleansing" religious pomp, ceremony  and traditions of men (or as commentator Matthew Henry states -- the inventions and injunctions of their elders and fathers).

Jesus calls them hypocrites, for "making the Word of God of none effect through your tradition which ye have delivered; and many such like things do ye." (Mark 7:13)

Jesus said, "Woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! for ye make clean the outside of the cup and of the platter, but within they are full of extortion and excess." (Matthew 23:25)

In prophecy, the Lord said, "Forasmuch as this people draw near [Me] with their mouth, and with their lips do honour Me, but have removed their heart far from Me, and their fear toward Me is taught by the precept of men ..." (Isaiah 29:13)

And again, in another place, the Lord saith, "And they come unto thee as the people cometh and they sit before thee as My people, and they hear thy words, but they will not do them: for with their mouth they shew much love, but their heart goes after their covetousness." (Ezekiel 33:31)

Continuing in Mark 7, Jesus then calls the people unto Himself, saying, "Hearken unto Me every one of you and understand. There is nothing from without a man, that entering into him can defile him but the things which come out of him, those are they that defile the man. If any man have ears to hear, let him hear." (Mark 7:14-16)

And when He was entered into the house from the people, His disciples asked Him concerning the parable. And He saith unto them, "Are ye so without understanding also? Do ye not perceive, that whatsoever thing from without enters into the man, it cannot defile him; because it enters not into his heart but into the belly and goes out into the draught, purging all meats?"

And He said, "That which comes out of the man, that defiles the man. For from within, out of the heart of men, proceed evil thoughts, adulteries, fornications, murders, thefts, covetousness, wickedness, deceit, lasciviousness, an evil eye, blasphemy, pride, foolishness; all these evil things come from within and defile the man." (Mark 7:17-23)

As apostle Paul later attested-- "... and profited in the Jews’ religion above many my equals in mine own nation, being more exceedingly zealous of the traditions of my fathers." (Galatians 1:14)
Although Mark moves on in his writings, we (thankfully!) know the rest of the story. That God loved us so much that He willingly paid the price for our sins on the cross. "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)

So, to recap -- "Why walk not Thy disciples according to the tradition of the elders?" (Mark 7:5) Because when we who profess to believe receive the doctrine of Christ, we (like Jesus' disciples) have more understanding than the religious teachers (and ancients) because the King of kings and Lord of lords dwells within our hearts. He is leading and guiding our steps. The focus of our hearts dwelling on our Lord God and Saviour Jesus the Christ. (Hebrews 6:1-2; II John 1:9; Acts 20:28)

In closing, a timely instruction from David the psalmist  -- "I have more insight than all my teachers, for I meditate on Your statutes. I have more understanding than the elders, for I obey Your precepts." (Psalms 119:99-100)

Thus, let's not permit our faith to start and stop with the whims of a religious culture, but rather become intentional about opening our New Testament and studying His Word -- for our edification and learning. 

"And for this cause, He is the mediator of the New Testament that by means of death, for the redemption of the transgressions [that were] under the first testament, they which are called might receive the promise of eternal inheritance." (Hebrews 9:15, 16-18) 

Stand in the offering plate.