" ... but by every Word of God ..."
"Therefore leaving the principles of the doctrine of Christ, let us go on unto perfection; not laying again the foundation of repentance from dead works, and of faith toward God, of the doctrine of baptisms, and of laying on of hands, and of resurrection of the dead, and of eternal judgment." (Hebrews 6:1-2)
“Whosoever transgresses, and abides not in the doctrine of Christ, hath not God. He that abides in the doctrine of Christ, he hath both the Father and the Son.” (II John 1:9)
"How much more shall the blood of Christ -- who THROUGH the eternal Spirit offered Himself without spot to God purge your conscience from dead works to serve the living God? And for this cause, He is the mediator of the new testament, that by means of death, for the redemption of the transgressions [that were] under the first testament, they which are called might receive the promise of eternal inheritance ... for where a testament [is], there must also of necessity be the death of the testator. For a testament [is] of force after men are dead: otherwise, it is of no strength at all while the testator lives. Whereupon neither the first [testament] was dedicated without blood. For when Moses had spoken every precept to all the people according to the law ..." (Hebrews 9:14-19; Acts 1:2-3, 8)
The true disciple of Jesus Christ will seek to understand the greatest love story ever told, and will not shrink back in the face of a modern day religious culture intent on deceiving the masses with their false trinity teaching. Still, how dare those who proclaim to understand the Word of the Lord delete any and all references to the "doctrine of Christ" in their rewritten books, and instead put forward a false man-made, religious teaching called the trinity, wherein God is reduced to three persons.
The first commandment declares God as One Lord. (Deuteronomy 6:4; Mark 12:29-31) The very beginning of our world, and His handiwork (even to this day) declares -- In the beginning, God. (Genesis 1:1) The Spirit of the Lord moved upon the face of the waters. (Genesis 1:2)
God is Spirit. God is holy. And the scriptures state God Himself became our Saviour. That He was in the world and the world was made by Him and yet the world knew Him not. That He came unto His own and His own received Him not? (I Timothy 3:16; John 1:10-11; Titus 3:4-7; Deuteronomy 6:4; Mark 12:29-31; Isaiah 9:6; Isaiah 42:13; Titus 3:4-7)
The Lord Himself came forth as a mighty man. (Isaiah 42:13) He is our Saviour and beside Him there is none else.
And yet, the obvious is being denied, and to support their false position, the scriptures who point to the falseness repeatedly omitted in the revised books they present as Bibles. Oh, how dark our world has become when those who profess to believe willingly remove the absolute knowledge of the gospel from the Word of the Lord in scripture! Woe to them that are responsible for willfully making people ignorant of His truth. The Word of God being corrupted by those who are void of all knowledge and understanding of godliness. (I Timothy 3:16)
It is no wonder Jesus went into the temple of God and cast out all them that sold and bought in the temple, and overthrew the tables of the money changers and the seats of them that sold doves, and said unto them, "It is written, My house shall be called the house of prayer, but ye have made it a den of thieves."
"And Jesus went into the temple of God, and cast out all them that sold and bought in the temple, and overthrew the tables of the moneychangers, and the seats of them that sold doves, and said unto them, It is written, My house shall be called the house of prayer; but ye have made it a den of thieves." (Matthew 21:12-13 KJV)
"And Jesus went into the Temple of God, and cast out all them that sold and bought in the Temple, and overthrew the tables of the moneychangers, and the seats of them that sold doves, and said to them, It is written, My house shall be called the house of prayer: but ye have made it a den of thieves." (Matthew 21:12-13 Geneva 1599)
In the newer rewritten versions of the scriptures, such as the NIV; New Living Translation; English Standard; Berean; New American Standard, New American Standard, and Weymouth, for example, note that the words "of God" in this particular scripture Matthew 21:12 is omitted and replaced by temple courts/temple complex, etc.
Why? Because Jesus, who was God manifest in the flesh, came into His own temple and said, "My house shall be called the house of prayer." Therein, at that time, it was the temple of God and as we know from the doctrine of Christ, the same God of the temple was standing therein.
Yes, God visited His people. (Luke 1:67-79) After His love and kindness, God became our Saviour. (Titus 3:4-7)
This is why the Holy Ghost always points to Jesus -- because He is the Lord of glory. Jesus -- He is the King of kings and Lord of lords, Alpha and Omega, the first and the last, the beginning and the ending. (Revelation 1:8, 11) His Name given to us as the ONLY NAME whereby we must be saved in this current dispensation of grace. (Acts 4:12; Philippians 2:9)
"To wit, that God was in Christ, reconciling the world unto Himself, not imputing their trespasses unto them; and hath committed unto us the Word of reconciliation. Now then we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God did beseech you by us: we pray you in Christ's stead, be ye reconciled to God. For He hath made Him to be sin for us, who knew no sin; that we might be made the righteousness of God in Him." (II Corinthians 5:19-21)
"But now the righteousness of God without the law is manifested, being witnessed by the law and the prophets; even the righteousness of God which is by faith of Jesus Christ unto all and upon all them that believe: for there is no difference -- For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God; being justified freely by His grace through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus: whom God hath set forth to be a propitiation through faith in his blood, to declare His righteousness for the remission of sins that are past, through the forbearance of God; to declare, I say, at this time His righteousness: that he might be just, and the justifier of him which believes in Jesus." (Romans 3:21-26)
"To give knowledge of salvation unto His people by the remission of their sins, through the tender mercy of our God; whereby the day spring from on high hath visited us, to give light to them that sit in darkness and in the shadow of death, to guide our feet into the way of peace." (Luke 1:77-79)
Indeed, it is time to throw out the new rewritten versions that attempt to lead us astray from His truth, wherein entire scriptures are omitted from His Word without any justification. We need to become as the new disciples in the early church -- those that believed, came and confessed and shewed their deeds, many of them also which used curious arts brought their books together and burned them before all [men]; and they counted the price of them and found it fifty thousand [pieces] of silver -- so mightily grew the Word of God and prevailed." (Acts 19:18-20)
The curious arts of this day include any teaching that adds or takes away from the scriptures, which is why we are warned of wolves in sheep's clothing, who would preach "another" gospel than the gospel you have been taught, and heard, and understand.
All this so that it might be fulfilled which was spoken by Esaias [Isaiah] the prophet, saying, "Himself took our infirmities, and bare our sicknesses." (Matthew 8:17)
God Himself robed in sin prone flesh (and yet without sin) so that we could find redemption and sanctification through His perfect sacrifice on the cross. And to this day, He is still inviting us to come into His fold, and to the most elaborate wedding feast known to man. Heed His call today. Accept His invitation that is embraced in love and mercy. And yes ...
"Repent ye, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand." (Matthew 3:2; Acts 2:36-38)
Stand in the offering plate.
[* As an aside, we are now the temple of the Lord, and collectively together the body of Christ -- Jesus being the Head of the Church)
All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness
Monday, July 29, 2019
Saturday, July 27, 2019
It Is No Secret What God Can Do, With Arms Wide Open, He'll Pardon You - Part 2397
At one point, the Apostles were criticized for not doing enough for the orphans and widows. Thus, some form of assistants were needed to help spread the gospel message to the world. So the apostles said, "Look you out seven men of honest report and filled with the Holy Ghost and wisdom." The reason for this is so that the apostles could appoint men of faith to attend to the daily ministration of those in need. Indeed, this was necessary for two reasons. First, the increasing number of people that had come to believe the gospel message made it more difficult to ensure that every believer was fully supported in their quest to serve Jesus, and second, the complications that continually emerged by ongoing persecution. (Acts 6 elaborates on the credentials required for these seven -- if you'd like to further understand the context of these scriptures).
The apostles praying laid their hands upon the people. Seven people were appointed, energized by the Holy Ghost in power. Philip was one of the seven chosen to serve by the multitude. Now appointed, as outlined in Acts chapter 8, Philip went to a city called Samaria and preached Christ to them. The people were receptive to the good news gospel message that Philip spoke. As well, hearing and seeing miracles, and the lame healed was just a starting point. Unclean spirits, crying with loud voices, fled the bodies of many that were possessed. Many more believed. In fact, there was great joy in the city.
For the record, Philip was not practising medicine. Philip was not practicing some new age sorcery or wizardry either, Rather, Philip was preaching the empowering message of Jesus Christ to the masses. Why? Because Philip simply believed that God was capable of restoring people to good health. In so doing, he harnessed a childlike faith with Almighty God as His instructor.
Remember what the scriptures state. Throughout, Jesus advocated for believers to become like little children. Jesus taught that expressing childlike faith in God is akin to a non-wavering faith. But like children, our faith, even if our faith is only a mustard seed in size, is capable of catching God's attention. What was the scriptures said? That God, in response to our faith, is capable of moving mountains. "Only believe," Jesus said, because without faith, it is impossible to please God our Saviour.
Even more so, it is our faith that is so critically important. Believe that all things are possible. If you have faith as a grain of mustard, all things are possible. You see, Jesus came to seek and to save that which was lost. Jesus came to redeem man out of the house of satan’s bondage. In other words, Jesus overcame captivity. As a captive, Jesus assumed sinful man's place at Calvary. He wants to cover your sins with the blood He shed too.
This is why it shouldn't be a secret as to what God can do. The words of an old gospel hymn come to mind, "What He has done for others, He’ll do for you ... With arms wide open, He’ll pardon you ... It is no secret what God can do."
Just like Philip, who just preached those everyday truths that pertain to the Kingdom of God, Jesus wants you to do the same. In the precious, holy Name of Jesus the Christ, the residents of Samaria responded when Philip suggested that the seed of expressed faith arising in their hearts, needed to be watered. Using the same analogy -- that all seeds need water, they were all baptized into the empowering Name of Jesus. The Name that is above every other name in heaven and on earth. The important note here is that there was no hesitation on the part of the people. These people believed the message and straightway, went down into the water to be baptized -- in His Name -- the Only Name given in this current dispensation of grace -- the Name of the JESUS. The same day, straight away, and by so doing, they stepped into a new dimension of life redeemed by Christ.
They stepped into a realm where they now understood that God Himself as a Son had fulfilled a plan for their salvation. Over time, the news that Philip had preached Jesus (blood, water and spirit) to the Samaritans reached the ears of the Apostles who were at Jerusalem. The apostles sent Peter and John to Samaria. Upon their arrival, they prayed for the believers that they might receive God’s holy Spirit -- the Holy Ghost, the Comforter who leads and guides into all truth. For as yet, the Holy Ghost had not yet descended upon them. They had not yet received God promise as all believers would.
But they had taken the first steps to a personal relationship with their God and Saviour. The Samarians had repented (responded to the call of the Lord Jesus in their hearts) but had not yet been water baptized into the Name of Jesus. They were redeemed and although they had great joy were effervescent, clothed in the righteousness of Jesus, the scriptures noted that as of yet, the Samarians had not yet received the breath of Jesus breathing into them His holy Spirit.
Why is this so important? Why is the message in the scriptures written this way? Well, these things are written that we might believe and that we all should be of one accord, continuing steadfastly in the teachings of the holy Spirit of Jesus, as delivered to believers through the mouths of the apostles. These are the principles of the doctrine of Christ. (II John 1:9; Hebrews 6:1-2) This includes being water baptized in the precious, holy Name of the Lord Jesus as an answer of a good conscience toward God -- our minds renewed, our hearts settled to the call of the Lord once and for all.
There are many other scriptural references that validate the teachings herein. Thus, Philip's experience with the Samarians is not isolated. The scriptures detail other examples of repentance and remission of sins being preached in Jesus Name. Acts chapter 2, Acts chapter10 and Acts chapter 19 are prime examples.
Peace to all those who are of God's household. Have faith in Jesus -- as both Lord and Christ, and dwell in His promises wherein He is forever faithful to those who worship Him.
Stand in the offering plate.
The apostles praying laid their hands upon the people. Seven people were appointed, energized by the Holy Ghost in power. Philip was one of the seven chosen to serve by the multitude. Now appointed, as outlined in Acts chapter 8, Philip went to a city called Samaria and preached Christ to them. The people were receptive to the good news gospel message that Philip spoke. As well, hearing and seeing miracles, and the lame healed was just a starting point. Unclean spirits, crying with loud voices, fled the bodies of many that were possessed. Many more believed. In fact, there was great joy in the city.
For the record, Philip was not practising medicine. Philip was not practicing some new age sorcery or wizardry either, Rather, Philip was preaching the empowering message of Jesus Christ to the masses. Why? Because Philip simply believed that God was capable of restoring people to good health. In so doing, he harnessed a childlike faith with Almighty God as His instructor.
Remember what the scriptures state. Throughout, Jesus advocated for believers to become like little children. Jesus taught that expressing childlike faith in God is akin to a non-wavering faith. But like children, our faith, even if our faith is only a mustard seed in size, is capable of catching God's attention. What was the scriptures said? That God, in response to our faith, is capable of moving mountains. "Only believe," Jesus said, because without faith, it is impossible to please God our Saviour.
Even more so, it is our faith that is so critically important. Believe that all things are possible. If you have faith as a grain of mustard, all things are possible. You see, Jesus came to seek and to save that which was lost. Jesus came to redeem man out of the house of satan’s bondage. In other words, Jesus overcame captivity. As a captive, Jesus assumed sinful man's place at Calvary. He wants to cover your sins with the blood He shed too.
This is why it shouldn't be a secret as to what God can do. The words of an old gospel hymn come to mind, "What He has done for others, He’ll do for you ... With arms wide open, He’ll pardon you ... It is no secret what God can do."
Just like Philip, who just preached those everyday truths that pertain to the Kingdom of God, Jesus wants you to do the same. In the precious, holy Name of Jesus the Christ, the residents of Samaria responded when Philip suggested that the seed of expressed faith arising in their hearts, needed to be watered. Using the same analogy -- that all seeds need water, they were all baptized into the empowering Name of Jesus. The Name that is above every other name in heaven and on earth. The important note here is that there was no hesitation on the part of the people. These people believed the message and straightway, went down into the water to be baptized -- in His Name -- the Only Name given in this current dispensation of grace -- the Name of the JESUS. The same day, straight away, and by so doing, they stepped into a new dimension of life redeemed by Christ.
They stepped into a realm where they now understood that God Himself as a Son had fulfilled a plan for their salvation. Over time, the news that Philip had preached Jesus (blood, water and spirit) to the Samaritans reached the ears of the Apostles who were at Jerusalem. The apostles sent Peter and John to Samaria. Upon their arrival, they prayed for the believers that they might receive God’s holy Spirit -- the Holy Ghost, the Comforter who leads and guides into all truth. For as yet, the Holy Ghost had not yet descended upon them. They had not yet received God promise as all believers would.
But they had taken the first steps to a personal relationship with their God and Saviour. The Samarians had repented (responded to the call of the Lord Jesus in their hearts) but had not yet been water baptized into the Name of Jesus. They were redeemed and although they had great joy were effervescent, clothed in the righteousness of Jesus, the scriptures noted that as of yet, the Samarians had not yet received the breath of Jesus breathing into them His holy Spirit.
Why is this so important? Why is the message in the scriptures written this way? Well, these things are written that we might believe and that we all should be of one accord, continuing steadfastly in the teachings of the holy Spirit of Jesus, as delivered to believers through the mouths of the apostles. These are the principles of the doctrine of Christ. (II John 1:9; Hebrews 6:1-2) This includes being water baptized in the precious, holy Name of the Lord Jesus as an answer of a good conscience toward God -- our minds renewed, our hearts settled to the call of the Lord once and for all.
There are many other scriptural references that validate the teachings herein. Thus, Philip's experience with the Samarians is not isolated. The scriptures detail other examples of repentance and remission of sins being preached in Jesus Name. Acts chapter 2, Acts chapter10 and Acts chapter 19 are prime examples.
Peace to all those who are of God's household. Have faith in Jesus -- as both Lord and Christ, and dwell in His promises wherein He is forever faithful to those who worship Him.
Stand in the offering plate.
Never Alone, For The Lord Jesus Walks With Us - Part 2396
One Lord, One Faith, One Baptism. One God and Father of all, who is above all and through all and in you all. (Ephesians 4:5-6)
God Himself came forth as a mighty man (Isaiah 9:6; Isaiah 42:13)
For in Him dwells all the fullness of the Godhead bodily, and ye are complete in Him which is the Head of all principality and power ... (Colossians 2:9-10)
He was in the world and the world was made by Him and the world knew Him not. He came unto His own and His own received Him not. (John 1:10-11)
God manifest in the flesh. (I Timothy 3:16; Matthew 1:21-23; Mark 12:29-31; John 10:30; John 14:6-10)
The One and Only loved us enough to clothe Himself in flesh and shed His own precious blood on the cross for you and I. Now it's our turn to stand in the offering plate -- loving the Lord God our Saviour Jesus the Christ with all our hearts, souls, minds, and strength, and flowing through His love to one another.
Be richly blessed this day, and in the days to come, knowing that you are never alone! Praise be to risen Jesus -- King of kings and Lord of lords, Alpha and Omega, the first and the last, the beginning and the ending. Glory to His Name.
God Himself came forth as a mighty man (Isaiah 9:6; Isaiah 42:13)
For in Him dwells all the fullness of the Godhead bodily, and ye are complete in Him which is the Head of all principality and power ... (Colossians 2:9-10)
He was in the world and the world was made by Him and the world knew Him not. He came unto His own and His own received Him not. (John 1:10-11)
God manifest in the flesh. (I Timothy 3:16; Matthew 1:21-23; Mark 12:29-31; John 10:30; John 14:6-10)
The One and Only loved us enough to clothe Himself in flesh and shed His own precious blood on the cross for you and I. Now it's our turn to stand in the offering plate -- loving the Lord God our Saviour Jesus the Christ with all our hearts, souls, minds, and strength, and flowing through His love to one another.
Be richly blessed this day, and in the days to come, knowing that you are never alone! Praise be to risen Jesus -- King of kings and Lord of lords, Alpha and Omega, the first and the last, the beginning and the ending. Glory to His Name.
Thursday, July 25, 2019
Through The Grace Of Our Lord Jesus The Christ - Part 2395
We believe that through the grace of our Lord Jesus the Christ we shall be saved. From Acts chapter 15 in the Bible, we discover that some believers in the primitive assembly thought it necessary for the believing non Jews to be circumcised. It was similarly dictated that they must adhere to the Law. Well, taking that position caused an extensive inquiry.
Remember, it was Peter that God had chosen to initially deliver the good news of the gospel to the non Jews. Peter said at that initial moment that it was God who knows the heart. It is God who becomes acquainted with a believer and understands people's innermost thoughts. Certainly, it was God who by the outpouring and inputting of His own Spirit upon the non Jews, welcomed the non-Jewish into the flock. It was He who had previously breathed His Spirit upon us Jews. God, in so doing, declared that He was placing no difference between the non Jews and the Jews. There would be no distinctions. He did not discriminate.
Indeed, God purified and cleansed the non Jews heart’s by faith. So why call God's love and motives into question now? Why strain the patience of God? In fact, why are so many endeavouring to put a burden on the shoulders of non Jewish believers, a burden that neither we nor our forefathers did.
As we read further, we see that James added his position to the discussion. James relayed how it pleased God at the first to visit the non Jews. It became obvious that God was choosing a people dedicated to His name. To this the afore-predicted language, the prophets agree. As it is written in the scriptures, "There will be a time when I shall return [to earth where] I will build again the tabernacle of David which is fallen down and now is in ruins."
In other words, God was saying, "I will raise my tabernacle afresh so that the residue of believing men and women from all nations who belong to me, may now earnestly seek after me." God from the beginning of time, and well into eternity, knows what He is doing. He has our lives planned out even before the foundations of the world were created. So how then, does religion's judgement and subsequent decisions that include imposing irksome restrictions on non Jews become valid. Remember, these were non-Jews who were turning by faith to the Lord Jesus.
So Peter and James confirmed that God's plan of salvation wasn't about dictates. Rather, there were four things that the non-Jews should do. First, to abstain from the pollution of idolatry. As well, abstain from fornication and sexual vices. And lastly, that they should keep themselves from eating the flesh of strangled animals. Indeed, from blood in any form, including processed or blood soaked meat. The reason? Life is in the blood. Life is in the shedding of blood.
Subsequently, the apostles and elders, in unison with all the believers decided to write on paper their decision. If you are reading along in the scriptures, you will find the references in Acts chapter 15, verses 23-28. Here comes the good news. For it seemed good to the Holy Spirit and to us to lay upon you no greater burden than these necessary requirements. That is, encouraging believers to remain steadfast in the Lord. For the non Jews, the letter was critical. When they received this good news, they rejoiced. They had been encouraged by its contents. You can almost hear them saying, "yes, I will remain steadfast in the Lord."
Fast forward to the 21st century. God is still adding believers to His church daily. He is creating a nation of believers and building a temple of living stones for His own habitation. This is a temple not made with hands. Nor is this temple constructed of brick or mortar, wood, hay, or stubble. In this temple, Christ is the corner stone. The apostles and the prophets are the foundation. There is no other building. The Word is the foundation.
For God has said, "What house are you going to build me when Heaven is my throne and the earth is my footstool. As born again believers, we are the building chosen of God to be His habitation. His spiritual habitation. The house in which He is so very pleased to dwell. We are the body of Christ. This building is the measure of the stature of the body of Christ. If you are looking for an analogy, how about God’s measuring tape?
God redeemed the people, and ensured their rebirth and salvation through His blood. Our sins were washed away by baptism as we called upon the name of the Lord. Yes, we are baptised into His temple by the same Spirit that dwelt within the man Christ Jesus. And now we are that body -- the body of Christ -- in which He is so pleased to dwell.
May God who now rules and reigns within your believing heart bless you.
Stand in the offering plate.
Remember, it was Peter that God had chosen to initially deliver the good news of the gospel to the non Jews. Peter said at that initial moment that it was God who knows the heart. It is God who becomes acquainted with a believer and understands people's innermost thoughts. Certainly, it was God who by the outpouring and inputting of His own Spirit upon the non Jews, welcomed the non-Jewish into the flock. It was He who had previously breathed His Spirit upon us Jews. God, in so doing, declared that He was placing no difference between the non Jews and the Jews. There would be no distinctions. He did not discriminate.
Indeed, God purified and cleansed the non Jews heart’s by faith. So why call God's love and motives into question now? Why strain the patience of God? In fact, why are so many endeavouring to put a burden on the shoulders of non Jewish believers, a burden that neither we nor our forefathers did.
As we read further, we see that James added his position to the discussion. James relayed how it pleased God at the first to visit the non Jews. It became obvious that God was choosing a people dedicated to His name. To this the afore-predicted language, the prophets agree. As it is written in the scriptures, "There will be a time when I shall return [to earth where] I will build again the tabernacle of David which is fallen down and now is in ruins."
In other words, God was saying, "I will raise my tabernacle afresh so that the residue of believing men and women from all nations who belong to me, may now earnestly seek after me." God from the beginning of time, and well into eternity, knows what He is doing. He has our lives planned out even before the foundations of the world were created. So how then, does religion's judgement and subsequent decisions that include imposing irksome restrictions on non Jews become valid. Remember, these were non-Jews who were turning by faith to the Lord Jesus.
So Peter and James confirmed that God's plan of salvation wasn't about dictates. Rather, there were four things that the non-Jews should do. First, to abstain from the pollution of idolatry. As well, abstain from fornication and sexual vices. And lastly, that they should keep themselves from eating the flesh of strangled animals. Indeed, from blood in any form, including processed or blood soaked meat. The reason? Life is in the blood. Life is in the shedding of blood.
Subsequently, the apostles and elders, in unison with all the believers decided to write on paper their decision. If you are reading along in the scriptures, you will find the references in Acts chapter 15, verses 23-28. Here comes the good news. For it seemed good to the Holy Spirit and to us to lay upon you no greater burden than these necessary requirements. That is, encouraging believers to remain steadfast in the Lord. For the non Jews, the letter was critical. When they received this good news, they rejoiced. They had been encouraged by its contents. You can almost hear them saying, "yes, I will remain steadfast in the Lord."
Fast forward to the 21st century. God is still adding believers to His church daily. He is creating a nation of believers and building a temple of living stones for His own habitation. This is a temple not made with hands. Nor is this temple constructed of brick or mortar, wood, hay, or stubble. In this temple, Christ is the corner stone. The apostles and the prophets are the foundation. There is no other building. The Word is the foundation.
For God has said, "What house are you going to build me when Heaven is my throne and the earth is my footstool. As born again believers, we are the building chosen of God to be His habitation. His spiritual habitation. The house in which He is so very pleased to dwell. We are the body of Christ. This building is the measure of the stature of the body of Christ. If you are looking for an analogy, how about God’s measuring tape?
God redeemed the people, and ensured their rebirth and salvation through His blood. Our sins were washed away by baptism as we called upon the name of the Lord. Yes, we are baptised into His temple by the same Spirit that dwelt within the man Christ Jesus. And now we are that body -- the body of Christ -- in which He is so pleased to dwell.
May God who now rules and reigns within your believing heart bless you.
Stand in the offering plate.
Saturday, July 20, 2019
He Was In The World And the World Was Made By Him And The Word Knew Him Not - Part 2394
"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)
As the early believing body of Christ church grew in popularity, the religious and political systems of the day looked for a way to change the scriptural norms which defined Christianity. In fact, the worldly powers sought to recast the apostolic doctrine into a form of philosophy, and to some degree they were successful in deceiving the casual church goer.
For example, the teaching that God is three-headed, or that God is triune, a triad and what the modern day religious culture propagates as the trinity. In this context, it is critical to understand that there is no trinity within the scriptures. Only One God and He willingly became our Saviour. 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; Isaiah 7:14; Isaiah 9:6; I Timothy 3:16; Titus 3:4-7; Revelation 1:8)
Thus, to argue against the trinity teaching would be like arguing against a straw man -- which would have no benefit here. So let's look at how we got to this point from an historical perspective.
First, we should understand that the trinity (God in three persons) is Antinomian. It is contrary to the first commandment, wherein the scripture saith, "Hear O Israel the Lord thy God is One!" (Deuteronomy 6:4; Mark 12:29-31; Galatians 3:20; Hebrews 1:3) We also know that the trinity is Turtullian's adaptation of Plato's Timaeus. These philosophical thoughts were originally carried into Rome by Pythagoras in the 6th century BC, from the philosophy school of pagan Alexandria.
Turtullian, a student of Platonic Philosophy while in Rome, applied a philosophical rule to Christianity, which mandates that Logos (a Greek philosophy term) must be separate from the original God in Christ doctrine that the scriptures teach.
"To wit, God was in Christ reconciling the world unto Himself." (II Corinthians 5:19)
Further, the theory that God is multiple and not One and Only who is Lord of all is nothing short of polytheism. And if I may add -- blasphemy. Because nowhere in the scriptures is God described as three persons. Neither does the scriptures describe God as a co-existent, co-eternal multiple headed God. In the New Testament, there are no trinitarian statements or speculations concerning a three-headed Godhead.
"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)
Therefore, the trinity- triune G/god(s) teaching emerges from ancient Egyptian and Babylonian traditions of men, and has not foundation in the scriptures. So, when the worldly systems that opposed the apostolic doctrine -- as preached on the day of Pentecost in Acts 2 -- these had to find a solution to stop the believing body of Christ church from growing. As we know, they had already tried persecuting believers and that was not working. Thus, instead, they decided to recast the Christian church doctrines and beliefs in a manner that would create confusion.
What did these do? These changed Jesus instruction and example -- to be water baptized -- to be specific to infants which translated into sprinkling instead of full immersion -- wherein we are buried with Christ and when we come up from the water resurrected with Christ -- or as we say here, becoming "clothed" in His righteousness. Repentance was changed to penance, wherein one's sins are confessed to another man instead of the Lord of Glory.
The wording of the great commission (as the religious institutions call it) in Matthew 28:19 was changed to titles -- instead of the precious, holy Name of the Lord Jesus. Thankfully, we have two other accounts of this same commission wherein the wording was not changed from the Name of Jesus to the titles - Father, Son, Holy Ghost.
As well, the Acts 2:36-41 salvation message was watered down to individuals joining a religious organization. The greatest love story ever told was diluted to One God to three distinct persons. With the apostles' doctrine (Acts 2:42) changed, the triune G/god teaching was able to take root. This has led to the majority of believers today not even knowing in whom they serve.
Again, the word Trinity never appears in the New Testament, nor did Jesus and His followers intend to contradict the Shema in the Hebrew Scriptures -- the first commandment wherein we are instructed to “Hear, O Israel: The Lord our God is one Lord.” (Deuteronomy 6:4)
Beyond the witness of the apostles, and the Word, there are historical references that point to the emergence of a false teaching within the church. These are listed below for your learning and edification.
"The doctrine of the trinity, as a statement of what God is, in Himself, CANNOT be justified on the basis of scripture." (Encyclopedia Britannica)
Dr. M. Burrows, professor Yale Divinity School wrote: "...the trinity was a major preoccupation of Egyptian theologies... three gods are combined and treated as a single being addressed as singular. In this way the spiritual force of Egyptian religion shows a direct link with Christian theology." (Morenz, S. Egyptian Religion. Cornell: University Press; 1973:254-257)
From the History of Christianity:
"It may be doubted whether Plato himself impersonated the Logos, the reason of the Deity; with him it was rather an attribute of the Godhead... Platonism had gradually absorbed all the more intellectual class... (Plato’s philosophy) was attempting to renew Paganism, and was the recognized and leading tenet in the higher Mysteries." (D. Milman. History of Christianity, Vol.2 p355)
From An Ecclesiastical History:
"This Platonic philosophy was adopted by such of the learned at Alexandria, who wished to be accounted Christians, and yet to retain the name, the garb, and the rank of philosophers. In particular, all those who in this second century presided in the schools of the Christians at Alexandria, Athenagoras, Pantaenus and Celmens Alexandria, are said to have approved of it. These men were persuaded that true philosophy, the great and most salutary gift of God, lay in scattered fragments among all the sects of philosophers: therefore it was the duty of every wise man, and especially of a Christian teacher, to collect those fragments from all quarters, and to use them in defense of religion." (J. Mosheim. An ecclesiastical history. Charlestown; 1694-1755 :1:152)
From the History of Christianity:
"If Paganism was conquered by Christianity, it is equally true that Christianity was corrupted by Paganism. The pure Deism of the first century Christians ... was changed by the Church of Rome, into the incomprehensible dogma of the Trinity. Many of the pagan tenets, invented by the Egyptians and idealized by Plato, were retained as being worthy of belief." (E. Gibbon. History of Christianity. Republished by Arno Press; 1972)
Other references:
"The Trinity is a corruption borrowed from the heathen religions, and engrafted on the Christian faith." (A Dictionary of Religious Knowledge. Lyman Abbott; 1875. section on ‘Trinity’ pg. 944)
“The term trinity is not itself found in the Bible. It was first used by Tertullian at the close of the 2nd century, but received wide currency [common use in intellectual discussion] and formal elucidation [clarification] only in the 4th and 5th centuries.” (New Bible Dictionary)
"No theologian in the first three Christian centuries was a trinitarian in the sense of a believing that the one God is tripersonal, containing equally divine “persons”, Father, Son, and Holy Spirit." (Encyclopedia Brittanica)
"That God is One, absolutely One-One in Essence and in Person-is the corner-stone of true theology"...."we hope to be able to set forth sufficient evidence to warrant the conclusion, that the doctrine to which we refer [the Trinity] may fairly be classed among the corruptions of Christianity, as one of the numerous departures from "the simplicity that is in Christ." (Stanford University Encyclopedia of Philosophy)
From The Origin of the Doctrine of the Trinity in the Christian Church", 1883, Morning Light Journal, Oxford University -- "To Jesus and Paul the Doctrine of the Trinity was apparently never known. They say nothing about it. "
E. Washburn Hopkins, Professor, Yale University writes: "It is IMPOSSIBLE to document what we now call Orthodoxy [The Trinity] in the first two centuries of Christianity"
Dr. Harold Brown, Trinitarian Professor, Reformed Theological Seminary in "Heresy and Orthodoxy in the History of the Church" writes: "The Modalists were the successors to the Apostles, NOT the Trinitarians. The Trinitarians expropriated the term "Catholic" (Universal) from the writings of Ignatius. When they increased in power and numbers they branded the Modalists, who preached one God, as Heretics and styled their group as Catholic."
Dr. Friedrich Loofs, Trinitarian Historian, Professor at the University of Halle in "The History of the Primitive Church" writes: "It must also be conceded by Trinitarians that the Doctrine of the Trinity, as now believed in, DID NOT find general acknowledgment until the 4th Century...."
In conclusion, the Trinity is NOT demonstrable by either logic or by scriptural proofs; the Trinity is NOT a Biblical doctrine.; the Trinitarian dogma is in the last analysis, a late 4th century invention; the doctrine (trinity) developed gradually over several centuries and through many controversies. It was never taught before the second/third century and most certainly not apostolic.
However, the biggest issue with the false trinity teaching is that it takes away from the good news gospel message, wherein the One True God of the Old Testament willingly took upon Himself the form of man -- as a Son -- so that we might have abundant life in Him. Yes, the God of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob, in the One eternal, ever-living God: infinite in power, holy in nature, attributes and purpose; and possessing absolute, indivisible deity.
This one true God has revealed Himself as Father in creation; through the only begotten Son redemption; and as the Holy Ghost by emanation. (I Corinthians 8:6; Ephesians 4:6; II Corinthians 5:19; Joel 2:28)
The Scripture goes further than simply attempting to prove the existence of God; it asserts, assumes and declares that the knowledge of God is universal (Romans 1:19, 21, 28, 32; 2:15). God is omnipresent, omnipotent and omniscient as well as invisible, incorporeal, without parts, without body, and therefore free from all limitations. He is Spirit (John 4:24), and “a spirit hath not flesh and bones” (Luke 24:39)
“One God and Father of all, who is above all, and through all, and in you all” (Ephesians 4:6).
In the book of Hebrews, we understand that before the incarnation, this one true God manifested Himself in diverse ways, including appearing in the tent to Abraham. But in this current dispensation of grace, He manifest Himself as a Son, who walked among men. He was in the same world that He created.
“In Him [Jesus] dwells all the fullness of the Godhead bodily” (Colossians 2:9)
“For it pleased the Father that in Him should all fullness dwell” (Colossians 1:19)
Jesus -- both human and divine. in His humanity, He was man; in His deity, He was and is God. His flesh was the lamb, or the sacrifice of God. He is the only mediator between God and man. “For there is one God, and one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus” (I Timothy 2:5)
The Lord pitched the tent. Jesus said, "he that hath seen Me hath seen the Father" (John 14:9) Jesus said, "I and My Father are one." (John 10:30) Jesus said, If you know Me, you know My Father as well. From now on, you know Him and have seen Him." (John 14:7) Jesus said, "And he that sees Me sees Him that sent Me." (John 12:45) "Then said they unto Him [Jesus], "Where is Thy Father?" Jesus answered, "Ye neither know Me, nor My Father: if ye had known Me, ye should have known My Father also." (John 8:19, 27)
Jesus said, “I am Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the ending," saith the Lord, "which is, and which was, and which is to come, the Almighty” (Revelation 1:8)
Search the scriptures for yourself and know that not all that comes from the church pulpits is truth.
Stand in the offering plate.
As the early believing body of Christ church grew in popularity, the religious and political systems of the day looked for a way to change the scriptural norms which defined Christianity. In fact, the worldly powers sought to recast the apostolic doctrine into a form of philosophy, and to some degree they were successful in deceiving the casual church goer.
For example, the teaching that God is three-headed, or that God is triune, a triad and what the modern day religious culture propagates as the trinity. In this context, it is critical to understand that there is no trinity within the scriptures. Only One God and He willingly became our Saviour. 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; Isaiah 7:14; Isaiah 9:6; I Timothy 3:16; Titus 3:4-7; Revelation 1:8)
Thus, to argue against the trinity teaching would be like arguing against a straw man -- which would have no benefit here. So let's look at how we got to this point from an historical perspective.
First, we should understand that the trinity (God in three persons) is Antinomian. It is contrary to the first commandment, wherein the scripture saith, "Hear O Israel the Lord thy God is One!" (Deuteronomy 6:4; Mark 12:29-31; Galatians 3:20; Hebrews 1:3) We also know that the trinity is Turtullian's adaptation of Plato's Timaeus. These philosophical thoughts were originally carried into Rome by Pythagoras in the 6th century BC, from the philosophy school of pagan Alexandria.
Turtullian, a student of Platonic Philosophy while in Rome, applied a philosophical rule to Christianity, which mandates that Logos (a Greek philosophy term) must be separate from the original God in Christ doctrine that the scriptures teach.
"To wit, God was in Christ reconciling the world unto Himself." (II Corinthians 5:19)
Further, the theory that God is multiple and not One and Only who is Lord of all is nothing short of polytheism. And if I may add -- blasphemy. Because nowhere in the scriptures is God described as three persons. Neither does the scriptures describe God as a co-existent, co-eternal multiple headed God. In the New Testament, there are no trinitarian statements or speculations concerning a three-headed Godhead.
"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)
Therefore, the trinity- triune G/god(s) teaching emerges from ancient Egyptian and Babylonian traditions of men, and has not foundation in the scriptures. So, when the worldly systems that opposed the apostolic doctrine -- as preached on the day of Pentecost in Acts 2 -- these had to find a solution to stop the believing body of Christ church from growing. As we know, they had already tried persecuting believers and that was not working. Thus, instead, they decided to recast the Christian church doctrines and beliefs in a manner that would create confusion.
What did these do? These changed Jesus instruction and example -- to be water baptized -- to be specific to infants which translated into sprinkling instead of full immersion -- wherein we are buried with Christ and when we come up from the water resurrected with Christ -- or as we say here, becoming "clothed" in His righteousness. Repentance was changed to penance, wherein one's sins are confessed to another man instead of the Lord of Glory.
The wording of the great commission (as the religious institutions call it) in Matthew 28:19 was changed to titles -- instead of the precious, holy Name of the Lord Jesus. Thankfully, we have two other accounts of this same commission wherein the wording was not changed from the Name of Jesus to the titles - Father, Son, Holy Ghost.
As well, the Acts 2:36-41 salvation message was watered down to individuals joining a religious organization. The greatest love story ever told was diluted to One God to three distinct persons. With the apostles' doctrine (Acts 2:42) changed, the triune G/god teaching was able to take root. This has led to the majority of believers today not even knowing in whom they serve.
Again, the word Trinity never appears in the New Testament, nor did Jesus and His followers intend to contradict the Shema in the Hebrew Scriptures -- the first commandment wherein we are instructed to “Hear, O Israel: The Lord our God is one Lord.” (Deuteronomy 6:4)
Beyond the witness of the apostles, and the Word, there are historical references that point to the emergence of a false teaching within the church. These are listed below for your learning and edification.
"The doctrine of the trinity, as a statement of what God is, in Himself, CANNOT be justified on the basis of scripture." (Encyclopedia Britannica)
Dr. M. Burrows, professor Yale Divinity School wrote: "...the trinity was a major preoccupation of Egyptian theologies... three gods are combined and treated as a single being addressed as singular. In this way the spiritual force of Egyptian religion shows a direct link with Christian theology." (Morenz, S. Egyptian Religion. Cornell: University Press; 1973:254-257)
From the History of Christianity:
"It may be doubted whether Plato himself impersonated the Logos, the reason of the Deity; with him it was rather an attribute of the Godhead... Platonism had gradually absorbed all the more intellectual class... (Plato’s philosophy) was attempting to renew Paganism, and was the recognized and leading tenet in the higher Mysteries." (D. Milman. History of Christianity, Vol.2 p355)
From An Ecclesiastical History:
"This Platonic philosophy was adopted by such of the learned at Alexandria, who wished to be accounted Christians, and yet to retain the name, the garb, and the rank of philosophers. In particular, all those who in this second century presided in the schools of the Christians at Alexandria, Athenagoras, Pantaenus and Celmens Alexandria, are said to have approved of it. These men were persuaded that true philosophy, the great and most salutary gift of God, lay in scattered fragments among all the sects of philosophers: therefore it was the duty of every wise man, and especially of a Christian teacher, to collect those fragments from all quarters, and to use them in defense of religion." (J. Mosheim. An ecclesiastical history. Charlestown; 1694-1755 :1:152)
From the History of Christianity:
"If Paganism was conquered by Christianity, it is equally true that Christianity was corrupted by Paganism. The pure Deism of the first century Christians ... was changed by the Church of Rome, into the incomprehensible dogma of the Trinity. Many of the pagan tenets, invented by the Egyptians and idealized by Plato, were retained as being worthy of belief." (E. Gibbon. History of Christianity. Republished by Arno Press; 1972)
Other references:
"The Trinity is a corruption borrowed from the heathen religions, and engrafted on the Christian faith." (A Dictionary of Religious Knowledge. Lyman Abbott; 1875. section on ‘Trinity’ pg. 944)
“The term trinity is not itself found in the Bible. It was first used by Tertullian at the close of the 2nd century, but received wide currency [common use in intellectual discussion] and formal elucidation [clarification] only in the 4th and 5th centuries.” (New Bible Dictionary)
"No theologian in the first three Christian centuries was a trinitarian in the sense of a believing that the one God is tripersonal, containing equally divine “persons”, Father, Son, and Holy Spirit." (Encyclopedia Brittanica)
"That God is One, absolutely One-One in Essence and in Person-is the corner-stone of true theology"...."we hope to be able to set forth sufficient evidence to warrant the conclusion, that the doctrine to which we refer [the Trinity] may fairly be classed among the corruptions of Christianity, as one of the numerous departures from "the simplicity that is in Christ." (Stanford University Encyclopedia of Philosophy)
From The Origin of the Doctrine of the Trinity in the Christian Church", 1883, Morning Light Journal, Oxford University -- "To Jesus and Paul the Doctrine of the Trinity was apparently never known. They say nothing about it. "
E. Washburn Hopkins, Professor, Yale University writes: "It is IMPOSSIBLE to document what we now call Orthodoxy [The Trinity] in the first two centuries of Christianity"
Dr. Harold Brown, Trinitarian Professor, Reformed Theological Seminary in "Heresy and Orthodoxy in the History of the Church" writes: "The Modalists were the successors to the Apostles, NOT the Trinitarians. The Trinitarians expropriated the term "Catholic" (Universal) from the writings of Ignatius. When they increased in power and numbers they branded the Modalists, who preached one God, as Heretics and styled their group as Catholic."
Dr. Friedrich Loofs, Trinitarian Historian, Professor at the University of Halle in "The History of the Primitive Church" writes: "It must also be conceded by Trinitarians that the Doctrine of the Trinity, as now believed in, DID NOT find general acknowledgment until the 4th Century...."
In conclusion, the Trinity is NOT demonstrable by either logic or by scriptural proofs; the Trinity is NOT a Biblical doctrine.; the Trinitarian dogma is in the last analysis, a late 4th century invention; the doctrine (trinity) developed gradually over several centuries and through many controversies. It was never taught before the second/third century and most certainly not apostolic.
However, the biggest issue with the false trinity teaching is that it takes away from the good news gospel message, wherein the One True God of the Old Testament willingly took upon Himself the form of man -- as a Son -- so that we might have abundant life in Him. Yes, the God of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob, in the One eternal, ever-living God: infinite in power, holy in nature, attributes and purpose; and possessing absolute, indivisible deity.
This one true God has revealed Himself as Father in creation; through the only begotten Son redemption; and as the Holy Ghost by emanation. (I Corinthians 8:6; Ephesians 4:6; II Corinthians 5:19; Joel 2:28)
The Scripture goes further than simply attempting to prove the existence of God; it asserts, assumes and declares that the knowledge of God is universal (Romans 1:19, 21, 28, 32; 2:15). God is omnipresent, omnipotent and omniscient as well as invisible, incorporeal, without parts, without body, and therefore free from all limitations. He is Spirit (John 4:24), and “a spirit hath not flesh and bones” (Luke 24:39)
“One God and Father of all, who is above all, and through all, and in you all” (Ephesians 4:6).
In the book of Hebrews, we understand that before the incarnation, this one true God manifested Himself in diverse ways, including appearing in the tent to Abraham. But in this current dispensation of grace, He manifest Himself as a Son, who walked among men. He was in the same world that He created.
“In Him [Jesus] dwells all the fullness of the Godhead bodily” (Colossians 2:9)
“For it pleased the Father that in Him should all fullness dwell” (Colossians 1:19)
Jesus -- both human and divine. in His humanity, He was man; in His deity, He was and is God. His flesh was the lamb, or the sacrifice of God. He is the only mediator between God and man. “For there is one God, and one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus” (I Timothy 2:5)
The Lord pitched the tent. Jesus said, "he that hath seen Me hath seen the Father" (John 14:9) Jesus said, "I and My Father are one." (John 10:30) Jesus said, If you know Me, you know My Father as well. From now on, you know Him and have seen Him." (John 14:7) Jesus said, "And he that sees Me sees Him that sent Me." (John 12:45) "Then said they unto Him [Jesus], "Where is Thy Father?" Jesus answered, "Ye neither know Me, nor My Father: if ye had known Me, ye should have known My Father also." (John 8:19, 27)
Jesus said, “I am Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the ending," saith the Lord, "which is, and which was, and which is to come, the Almighty” (Revelation 1:8)
Search the scriptures for yourself and know that not all that comes from the church pulpits is truth.
Stand in the offering plate.
Friday, July 19, 2019
Being Filled With the Fruits Of Righteousness, Which Are By Jesus Christ - Part 2393
“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)
Indeed, the living God, the pillar and ground of the truth (according to the verse before) was manifest (made visible; revealed; made known; displayed; shown; made evident) in the flesh; justified in the Spirit; seen of angels; God was believed on in the world; and God was received up into glory. How and when did all of this happen? In Jesus Christ.
In another place, “In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God . . . and the Word was made flesh and dwelt among us (and we beheld His glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father) full of grace and truth.” (John 1:1, 14; Galatians 4:4) The same Word that was with God was God. "He was in the world and the world was made by Him and the world knew Him not. He came unto His own and His own received Him not." (John 1:10-11)
Not another G/god or a second or third entity in a collective, multi-headed godhead (as some in the modern day religious community would have us believe) but the One and Only Living God robed in flesh -- so that we might receive His free gift of salvation. The Word which is Almighty God was tabernacled in flesh.
The question again -- when did this happen? In Jesus Christ.
"To wit, God was in Christ reconciling the world unto Himself." (II Corinthians 5:19) After the kindness and love of God our Saviour toward man appeared. (Titus 3:4-7) “No man hath seen God at any time; the only begotten Son, which is in the bosom of the Father, He hath declared [spoken, revealed] Him.” (John 1:18) “The image of the invisible God.” (Colossians 1:15; II Corinthians 4:4)
A third time -- when did this happen? In Jesus Christ.
The fullness of the Godhead dwelling bodily in Him. (Colossians 2:9) This same God who created the world in the beginning, and everything within was veiled in flesh? (Hebrews 10:20) But how can this be, given that God is Spirit, and without flesh and blood that would be visible to man? The answer? In Jesus Christ.
As the scripture saith, salvation in the New Testament had to be patterned after the old, but not as an add-on to the law, but rather, the Lord doing an entirely new thing. The dayspring from on high visiting His people. The promised Christ appearing to His beloved -- so that we might find life through Him.
Indeed, the living God, the pillar and ground of the truth (according to the verse before) was manifest (made visible; revealed; made known; displayed; shown; made evident) in the flesh; justified in the Spirit; seen of angels; God was believed on in the world; and God was received up into glory. How and when did all of this happen? In Jesus Christ.
In another place, “In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God . . . and the Word was made flesh and dwelt among us (and we beheld His glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father) full of grace and truth.” (John 1:1, 14; Galatians 4:4) The same Word that was with God was God. "He was in the world and the world was made by Him and the world knew Him not. He came unto His own and His own received Him not." (John 1:10-11)
Not another G/god or a second or third entity in a collective, multi-headed godhead (as some in the modern day religious community would have us believe) but the One and Only Living God robed in flesh -- so that we might receive His free gift of salvation. The Word which is Almighty God was tabernacled in flesh.
The question again -- when did this happen? In Jesus Christ.
"To wit, God was in Christ reconciling the world unto Himself." (II Corinthians 5:19) After the kindness and love of God our Saviour toward man appeared. (Titus 3:4-7) “No man hath seen God at any time; the only begotten Son, which is in the bosom of the Father, He hath declared [spoken, revealed] Him.” (John 1:18) “The image of the invisible God.” (Colossians 1:15; II Corinthians 4:4)
A third time -- when did this happen? In Jesus Christ.
The fullness of the Godhead dwelling bodily in Him. (Colossians 2:9) This same God who created the world in the beginning, and everything within was veiled in flesh? (Hebrews 10:20) But how can this be, given that God is Spirit, and without flesh and blood that would be visible to man? The answer? In Jesus Christ.
As the scripture saith, salvation in the New Testament had to be patterned after the old, but not as an add-on to the law, but rather, the Lord doing an entirely new thing. The dayspring from on high visiting His people. The promised Christ appearing to His beloved -- so that we might find life through Him.
Thus, In order to make Himself visible to man and in order to shed innocent blood for our sins, He had to robe Himself in sin-prone flesh -- yet He was always without sin. (Hebrews 9:1-8, 14-18)
Yes. the God of the Old Testament robed Himself in flesh. He is the Father; the Great I AM who as the Good Shepherd, laid down His life for His sheep. Moreover, “God, who at sundry times and in diverse manners spake in time past unto the fathers by the prophets, hath in these last days spoken unto us by [His] Son whom He hath appointed heir of all things, by whom also He made the worlds. . ... the brightness of [His] glory, and the express image of His person.” (Hebrews 1:1-3)
As Abraham prophesied --- “God will provide Himself a lamb” (Genesis 22:8). God indeed provided a body for Himself: “Sacrifice and offering thou wouldest not, but a body hast Thou prepared Me.” (Hebrews 10:5) So the Lord could come forth as a mighty man. (Isaiah 42:13; Isaiah 9:6; Isaiah 7:14)
Yes. the God of the Old Testament robed Himself in flesh. He is the Father; the Great I AM who as the Good Shepherd, laid down His life for His sheep. Moreover, “God, who at sundry times and in diverse manners spake in time past unto the fathers by the prophets, hath in these last days spoken unto us by [His] Son whom He hath appointed heir of all things, by whom also He made the worlds. . ... the brightness of [His] glory, and the express image of His person.” (Hebrews 1:1-3)
As Abraham prophesied --- “God will provide Himself a lamb” (Genesis 22:8). God indeed provided a body for Himself: “Sacrifice and offering thou wouldest not, but a body hast Thou prepared Me.” (Hebrews 10:5) So the Lord could come forth as a mighty man. (Isaiah 42:13; Isaiah 9:6; Isaiah 7:14)
Emmanuel, being interpreted, God with us. (Isaiah 7:14; Matthew 1:21-23)
Therefore, at the end of the day, this same Jesus whom ye have crucified is both Lord and Christ. (Acts 2:36) He is the Way, the Truth, and the Life. He is the Bread of Life. The same Rich that was Christ who followed the Israelites through the Red Sea. (I Corinthians 10:1-4)
It's no wonder when S/Paul asked the risen Jesus (when he was blinded on the road to Damascus) -- "Who art Thou?" Jesus said, "I am Jesus whom thou persecute." Because Jesus was the builder of the house while likewise a Son over His own house. (Hebrews 3:3-6)
Both Lord and Christ. Stand in the offering plate.
Blessed The Lord God From Everlasting To Everlasting; Amen and Amen; Amen and Alleluia; Praise Ye The Lord - Part 2392
"And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil: For Thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, for ever. Amen." (Matthew 6:33)
As believers, our testimony to others should rest in the fact that “every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and comes down from the Father of lights, with whom is no variableness, neither shadow of turning.” (James 1:17)
From Hebrews: "Wherein God, willing more abundantly to shew unto the heirs of promise the immutability of His counsel, confirmed [it] by an oath: that by two immutable things, in which [it was] impossible for God to lie, we might have a strong consolation, who have fled for refuge to lay hold upon the hope set before us: which [hope] we have as an anchor of the soul, both sure and steadfast, and which enters into that within the veil; whither the forerunner is for us entered, [even] Jesus, made an high priest for ever after the order of Melchisedec." (Hebrews 6:17-20)
Again, He never fails. His promises unchanging, unwavering, and unmovable, even in the face of changing societies. Why? Because the Lord God our Saviour Jesus the Christ has always brought to fruition what He says He will do -- every time ... "according as His divine power hath given unto us all things that [pertain] unto life and godliness, through the knowledge of Him that hath called us to glory and virtue: whereby are given unto us exceeding great and precious promises: that by these ye might be partakers of the divine nature, having escaped the corruption that is in the world through lust." (II Peter 1:3-4) But I digress somewhat. Continuing on the topic of amen, let's consider other contexts wherein this word is used.
"For of Him, and through Him, and to Him, are all things: to whom [be] glory for ever. Amen." (Romans 11:36)
"For all the promises of God in Him are yea, and in Him Amen, unto the glory of God by us." (II Corinthians 1:20)
Just before Jesus ascends, He says to those apostles whom He had chosen -- "... teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I AM with you alway, [even] unto the end of the world. Amen." (Matthew 28:20)
What was the result? "And they went forth, and preached every where, the Lord working with them, and confirming the word with signs following. Amen." (Mark 16:20) "And they worshipped Him, and returned to Jerusalem with great joy: and were continually in the temple, praising and blessing God. Amen." (Luke 24:52-53)
Knowing that "the Lord shall deliver [me/us] from every evil work, and will preserve [me] unto His heavenly kingdom: to whom [be] glory for ever and ever. Amen." (II Timothy 4:18) And that He will "make you perfect in every good work to do His will, working in you that which is well-pleasing in His sight, through Jesus Christ; to whom [be] glory for ever and ever. Amen." (Hebrews 13:21)
Further, "if any man speak, [let him] speak as the oracles of God; if any man minister, [let him do it] as of the ability which God gives: that God in all things may be glorified through Jesus Christ, to whom be praise and dominion for ever and ever. Amen." (I Peter 4:11)
And for the day to day, we are instructed to "grow in grace, and [in] the knowledge of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. To Him be glory both now and for ever. Amen." (II Peter 3:18)
"Blessed be the Lord for evermore. Amen, and Amen." (Psalm 89:52)
"Blessed be the Lord God of Israel from everlasting to everlasting: and let all the people say, "Amen. Praise ye the Lord." (Psalm 106:48)
"And there are also many other things which Jesus did, the which, if they should be written every one, I suppose that even the world itself could not contain the books that should be written. Amen." (John 21:25)
Therefore, "to God only wise, be glory through Jesus Christ for ever. Amen." (Romans 16:27) "... to whom [be] glory for ever and ever. Amen." (Galatians 1:5) "... who only hath immortality, dwelling in the light which no man can approach unto; whom no man hath seen, nor can see: to whom [be] honour and power everlasting. Amen." (I Timothy 6:16)
Therefore, "Now unto the King eternal, immortal, invisible, the only wise God, [be] honour and glory for ever and ever. Amen." (I Timothy 1:17)
Therefore, "to the only wise God our Saviour, be glory and majesty, dominion and power, both now and ever. Amen." (Jude 1:25)
Therefore, "to Him be glory and dominion for ever and ever. Amen." (I Peter 5:11)
Therefore, "amen: blessing, and glory, and wisdom, and thanksgiving, and honour, and power, and might, [be] unto our God for ever and ever. Amen." (Revelation 7:12)
Therefore, "the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ [be] with you. Amen." (Romans 16:20) Grace be with you, Amen! (Colossians 4:18)
Stand in the offering plate.
Have you ever wondered about the expression -- "Amen and Amen" -- in the scriptures? The term Amen serves as a confirmation - as in so be it, or it is so. The word is oft used at the end of our prayers. In terms of scripture, we know that the Lord God does not change -- Jesus Christ, the same yesterday, today and forever. (Hebrews 13:8) Moreover, His love, promises and faithfulness unwavering and sure for those who love Him with all their heart, soul, mind, and strength. As a consequence, our believing heart response to the Lord's continued faithfulness should be yea and amen -- in all things!
Again, He never fails. His promises unchanging, unwavering, and unmovable, even in the face of changing societies. Why? Because the Lord God our Saviour Jesus the Christ has always brought to fruition what He says He will do -- every time ... "according as His divine power hath given unto us all things that [pertain] unto life and godliness, through the knowledge of Him that hath called us to glory and virtue: whereby are given unto us exceeding great and precious promises: that by these ye might be partakers of the divine nature, having escaped the corruption that is in the world through lust." (II Peter 1:3-4) But I digress somewhat. Continuing on the topic of amen, let's consider other contexts wherein this word is used.
"For of Him, and through Him, and to Him, are all things: to whom [be] glory for ever. Amen." (Romans 11:36)
"For all the promises of God in Him are yea, and in Him Amen, unto the glory of God by us." (II Corinthians 1:20)
Just before Jesus ascends, He says to those apostles whom He had chosen -- "... teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I AM with you alway, [even] unto the end of the world. Amen." (Matthew 28:20)
What was the result? "And they went forth, and preached every where, the Lord working with them, and confirming the word with signs following. Amen." (Mark 16:20) "And they worshipped Him, and returned to Jerusalem with great joy: and were continually in the temple, praising and blessing God. Amen." (Luke 24:52-53)
Knowing that "the Lord shall deliver [me/us] from every evil work, and will preserve [me] unto His heavenly kingdom: to whom [be] glory for ever and ever. Amen." (II Timothy 4:18) And that He will "make you perfect in every good work to do His will, working in you that which is well-pleasing in His sight, through Jesus Christ; to whom [be] glory for ever and ever. Amen." (Hebrews 13:21)
Further, "if any man speak, [let him] speak as the oracles of God; if any man minister, [let him do it] as of the ability which God gives: that God in all things may be glorified through Jesus Christ, to whom be praise and dominion for ever and ever. Amen." (I Peter 4:11)
And for the day to day, we are instructed to "grow in grace, and [in] the knowledge of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. To Him be glory both now and for ever. Amen." (II Peter 3:18)
"Blessed be the Lord God of Israel for ever and ever." And all the people said, "Amen" and praised the Lord." (I Chronicles 16:26)
"Blessed [be] the Lord God of Israel from everlasting, and to everlasting. Amen, and Amen." (Psalm 41:13)
"And blessed [be] His glorious Name for ever: and let the whole earth be filled [with] His glory; Amen, and Amen." (Psalm 72:19)
"Blessed be the Lord God of Israel from everlasting to everlasting: and let all the people say, "Amen. Praise ye the Lord." (Psalm 106:48)
"And there are also many other things which Jesus did, the which, if they should be written every one, I suppose that even the world itself could not contain the books that should be written. Amen." (John 21:25)
Therefore, "to God only wise, be glory through Jesus Christ for ever. Amen." (Romans 16:27) "... to whom [be] glory for ever and ever. Amen." (Galatians 1:5) "... who only hath immortality, dwelling in the light which no man can approach unto; whom no man hath seen, nor can see: to whom [be] honour and power everlasting. Amen." (I Timothy 6:16)
Therefore, "Now unto the King eternal, immortal, invisible, the only wise God, [be] honour and glory for ever and ever. Amen." (I Timothy 1:17)
Therefore, "to the only wise God our Saviour, be glory and majesty, dominion and power, both now and ever. Amen." (Jude 1:25)
Therefore, "to Him be glory and dominion for ever and ever. Amen." (I Peter 5:11)
Therefore, "amen: blessing, and glory, and wisdom, and thanksgiving, and honour, and power, and might, [be] unto our God for ever and ever. Amen." (Revelation 7:12)
Therefore, "the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ [be] with you. Amen." (Romans 16:20) Grace be with you, Amen! (Colossians 4:18)
Stand in the offering plate.
Thursday, July 18, 2019
The Lord Nourishes And Cherishes The Church, For We Are Members Of His Body, His Flesh- Part 2391
"Giving thanks always for all things unto God and the Father in the Name of our Lord Jesus Christ ..." (Ephesians 5:20)
Sadly, there are too many within religious circles who oppose scriptural baptisms. No doubt you may encounter some of these folks as you proceed forward in your faith journey, and in your own born again experience. Still, it is helpful to be aware of these alternative perspectives so that you can respond accordingly.
A verse that is often cited by those who oppose the foundational teachings of the Spirit of God is Ephesians 5:26. This scripture states that Christ loved the church, and gave Himself for it so that He might sanctify and cleanse it with the washing of water by the Word, that He might present to Himself a glorious church, not having spot or wrinkle but that the church should be holy and without blemish. In context:
"That He might sanctify and cleanse it with the washing of water by the Word, that He might present it to Himself a glorious church, not having spot, or wrinkle, or any such thing; but that it should be holy and without blemish. So ought men to love their wives as their own bodies; he that loves his wife loves himself. For no man ever yet hated his own flesh; but nourishes and cherishes it, even as the Lord the church: for we are members of His body, of His flesh, and of His bones. For this cause shall a man leave his father and mother, and shall be joined unto his wife, and they two shall be one flesh. This is a great mystery: but I speak concerning Christ and the church. Nevertheless let every one of you in particular so love his wife even as himself; and the wife see that she reverence her husband."
Reading on ... that He might present to Himself a glorious church, not having spot or wrinkle, or any such thing; but that it should be holy and without blemish, for no man ever hated his own flesh but nourishes and cherishes it, even as the Lord nourishes and cherishes the church for we are members of His body, of His flesh, and of His bones.
It is the scriptural reference - that He might sanctify and cleanse it with the washing of water by the Word - that opponents use as evidence against baptism. The washing of water by the Word - at least in the opponents' mind - offers sufficient reason for laying aside the importance and validity of both water baptism and Holy Spirit baptism. The question is this. How far will some go to oppose the Holy Ghost teachings as outlined in the scriptures?
What should be happening is that rather than trying to eliminate or erase important scriptural teachings, including those of baptism, we should recognize that the scriptures are establishing Christian teachings for a reason. For it is the application of the Word that accomplishes the washing of water by the Word and subsequently, sanctifies and cleanses us.
Therefore, if the Word does indeed sanctify and cleanse us, what hinders these opposers of the Word from repenting and being baptized into the name of JESUS? Is it not in the performance of the Word that results in the removal of spots and wrinkles from our sinful record? We are His flesh, His bones, His body and if indeed we are redeemed and born again believing persons, then we ought to become subject to the mind of His Spirit.
The scriptures state it this way - My sheep hear My voice!
The same instructions apply to John 15:3 wherein Jesus states, "Now you are clean through the Word that I have spoken to you." We need to remember that which is written after Jesus ascended up into the heaven emanates from the very same JESUS who gave commandments unto His apostles through the Holy Ghost. (Acts 1:1-4)
Similarly, it was (and is) the same JESUS -- through His own Spirit who spoke through the Apostles' mouths. The same teachings that were delivered in Acts 2 when men, women, boys and girls were instructed to repent and be baptized into the name of JESUS for the REMISSION of SIN so that they, in so doing would receive the PROMISED GIFT of HIS HOLY SPIRIT!
Therein, the three thousand plus asked the critical question. That is, "What must we do to be saved?" Peter (standing with the eleven) said, "Repent and be baptized every one of you in the Name of the Lord Jesus Christ for the remission of sin and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost." (Acts 2:37-42)
Let he or she that has an ear to hear, let them hear what the Spirit of JESUS has to say. And further, peace to all those who obediently submitted to the wholesome w/Word of JESUS. The same Jesus who is the WORD OF GOD - whose WORD was in the beginning with God, and is now being proclaimed to all nations throughout this world.
The scriptures offer us guidance and direction in our Christian walk. Where can we go Lord? The disciples had this right. There is nowhere that we can go because Lord, you alone have the words of eternal life!
This same Lord that was crucified on the cross has been declared both Lord and Christ. (Acts 2:36)
Stand in the offering plate.
Sadly, there are too many within religious circles who oppose scriptural baptisms. No doubt you may encounter some of these folks as you proceed forward in your faith journey, and in your own born again experience. Still, it is helpful to be aware of these alternative perspectives so that you can respond accordingly.
A verse that is often cited by those who oppose the foundational teachings of the Spirit of God is Ephesians 5:26. This scripture states that Christ loved the church, and gave Himself for it so that He might sanctify and cleanse it with the washing of water by the Word, that He might present to Himself a glorious church, not having spot or wrinkle but that the church should be holy and without blemish. In context:
"That He might sanctify and cleanse it with the washing of water by the Word, that He might present it to Himself a glorious church, not having spot, or wrinkle, or any such thing; but that it should be holy and without blemish. So ought men to love their wives as their own bodies; he that loves his wife loves himself. For no man ever yet hated his own flesh; but nourishes and cherishes it, even as the Lord the church: for we are members of His body, of His flesh, and of His bones. For this cause shall a man leave his father and mother, and shall be joined unto his wife, and they two shall be one flesh. This is a great mystery: but I speak concerning Christ and the church. Nevertheless let every one of you in particular so love his wife even as himself; and the wife see that she reverence her husband."
Reading on ... that He might present to Himself a glorious church, not having spot or wrinkle, or any such thing; but that it should be holy and without blemish, for no man ever hated his own flesh but nourishes and cherishes it, even as the Lord nourishes and cherishes the church for we are members of His body, of His flesh, and of His bones.
It is the scriptural reference - that He might sanctify and cleanse it with the washing of water by the Word - that opponents use as evidence against baptism. The washing of water by the Word - at least in the opponents' mind - offers sufficient reason for laying aside the importance and validity of both water baptism and Holy Spirit baptism. The question is this. How far will some go to oppose the Holy Ghost teachings as outlined in the scriptures?
What should be happening is that rather than trying to eliminate or erase important scriptural teachings, including those of baptism, we should recognize that the scriptures are establishing Christian teachings for a reason. For it is the application of the Word that accomplishes the washing of water by the Word and subsequently, sanctifies and cleanses us.
Therefore, if the Word does indeed sanctify and cleanse us, what hinders these opposers of the Word from repenting and being baptized into the name of JESUS? Is it not in the performance of the Word that results in the removal of spots and wrinkles from our sinful record? We are His flesh, His bones, His body and if indeed we are redeemed and born again believing persons, then we ought to become subject to the mind of His Spirit.
The scriptures state it this way - My sheep hear My voice!
The same instructions apply to John 15:3 wherein Jesus states, "Now you are clean through the Word that I have spoken to you." We need to remember that which is written after Jesus ascended up into the heaven emanates from the very same JESUS who gave commandments unto His apostles through the Holy Ghost. (Acts 1:1-4)
Similarly, it was (and is) the same JESUS -- through His own Spirit who spoke through the Apostles' mouths. The same teachings that were delivered in Acts 2 when men, women, boys and girls were instructed to repent and be baptized into the name of JESUS for the REMISSION of SIN so that they, in so doing would receive the PROMISED GIFT of HIS HOLY SPIRIT!
Therein, the three thousand plus asked the critical question. That is, "What must we do to be saved?" Peter (standing with the eleven) said, "Repent and be baptized every one of you in the Name of the Lord Jesus Christ for the remission of sin and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost." (Acts 2:37-42)
Let he or she that has an ear to hear, let them hear what the Spirit of JESUS has to say. And further, peace to all those who obediently submitted to the wholesome w/Word of JESUS. The same Jesus who is the WORD OF GOD - whose WORD was in the beginning with God, and is now being proclaimed to all nations throughout this world.
The scriptures offer us guidance and direction in our Christian walk. Where can we go Lord? The disciples had this right. There is nowhere that we can go because Lord, you alone have the words of eternal life!
This same Lord that was crucified on the cross has been declared both Lord and Christ. (Acts 2:36)
Stand in the offering plate.
And We Have Known And Believed The Love That God Hath To Us - Part 2390
This is a republish of an earlier blog -- Herein Is Love Made Perfect; In His Abundant, Everlasting Grace - Part 2350.
"And it shall be said in that day, "Lo, this is our God; we have waited for Him, and He will save us: this is the Lord; we have waited for Him, we will be glad and rejoice in His salvation." (Isaiah 25:9)
In the scriptures, the term "in that day" refers to this current dispensation of grace, wherein the Lord willingly levelled the playing field so that each and every one of us could have an opportunity to abide in Him. As the Good Shepherd, He lay down His humanity so that we could come to the knowledge of His saving grace. That we might know -- by grace are we saved through faith, and that not of ourselves -- it is the gift of God.
Still, for those who may not know, His Name is JESUS, for He shall save His people from their sins. Emmanuel, being interpreted, God with us. This same God who created the earth and all that is within in the very beginning decided then that He would become our Saviour. After the kindness and love of God our Saviour toward man appeared. (Titus 3:4-7)
The mystery that was held in the bosom of the Father until this day!
But for far too many, the modern day religious culture with all its ordinances and sacraments (and sadly, as well idols) has taken root, and as a consequence, too many believers have moved away from rejoicing, praying without ceasing, and giving continual praise to the Lord, confessing His precious, holy Name to one and all.
It is herein that questions need to be asked that will prompt us to return to the Lord our God who loves us beyond measure. For this, we look into an example Mark elaborated upon -- when Jesus came into His own country to teach in the synagogue.
"And Jesus went out from thence, and came into His own country; and His disciples follow Him.
And when the sabbath day was come, He began to teach in the synagogue: and many hearing [Him] were astonished, saying, "From whence hath this man these things? And what wisdom is this which is given unto Him, that even such mighty works are wrought by His hands? Is not this the carpenter, the son of Mary, the brother of James, and Joses, and of Juda, and Simon? And are not his sisters here with us? And they were offended at Him." (Mark 6:1-3)
In His own country knowing who His earthly parents were, those hearing Jesus were astonished. Those listening to Jesus share wanted to know from whence hath this man these things. This knowledge that was not earthly but ever sustaining -- heavenly. More importantly, these asked what wisdom is this which is given unto Him, that even such mighty works are wrought by His hands.
Miracle after miracle. Wisdom and knowledge displayed every time the Pharisees and scribes, and the lawyers tried to trick Him. While Jesus continued to heal the sick, and open the eyes of the blind, healing the broken-hearted, those who watched Him had questions. And the list of questions growing -- "What manner of man is this?"
My point is this -- when did we who profess to believe stop marvelling at the goodness and mercy of the Lord Jesus, knowing that He shed His precious, holy blood on a cross for us? When did we stop acknowledging all the blessings the Lord Jesus bestows upon us every day, confessing His Name in all that we do? When did we stop being thankful for His mighty deliverance from situations that could have been detrimental? When will we rejoice because we now live forevermore?
More importantly, when will we become equally "astonished" at the wonderful works of His hands to the point that our hearts and minds are transformed? Yes, we have so very much to be thankful for, knowing that herein -- within the good news gospel of the Lord Jesus Christ, is love made perfect.
"And we have known and believed the love that God hath to us. God is love; and he that dwelleth in love dwells in God, and God in him. Herein is our love made perfect, that we may have boldness in the day of judgment: because as He is, so are we in this world. There is no fear in love; but perfect love casteth out fear ...." (I John 4:16-18)
Meditate on these things this day! Stand in the offering plate.
"And it shall be said in that day, "Lo, this is our God; we have waited for Him, and He will save us: this is the Lord; we have waited for Him, we will be glad and rejoice in His salvation." (Isaiah 25:9)
In the scriptures, the term "in that day" refers to this current dispensation of grace, wherein the Lord willingly levelled the playing field so that each and every one of us could have an opportunity to abide in Him. As the Good Shepherd, He lay down His humanity so that we could come to the knowledge of His saving grace. That we might know -- by grace are we saved through faith, and that not of ourselves -- it is the gift of God.
Still, for those who may not know, His Name is JESUS, for He shall save His people from their sins. Emmanuel, being interpreted, God with us. This same God who created the earth and all that is within in the very beginning decided then that He would become our Saviour. After the kindness and love of God our Saviour toward man appeared. (Titus 3:4-7)
The mystery that was held in the bosom of the Father until this day!
But for far too many, the modern day religious culture with all its ordinances and sacraments (and sadly, as well idols) has taken root, and as a consequence, too many believers have moved away from rejoicing, praying without ceasing, and giving continual praise to the Lord, confessing His precious, holy Name to one and all.
It is herein that questions need to be asked that will prompt us to return to the Lord our God who loves us beyond measure. For this, we look into an example Mark elaborated upon -- when Jesus came into His own country to teach in the synagogue.
"And Jesus went out from thence, and came into His own country; and His disciples follow Him.
And when the sabbath day was come, He began to teach in the synagogue: and many hearing [Him] were astonished, saying, "From whence hath this man these things? And what wisdom is this which is given unto Him, that even such mighty works are wrought by His hands? Is not this the carpenter, the son of Mary, the brother of James, and Joses, and of Juda, and Simon? And are not his sisters here with us? And they were offended at Him." (Mark 6:1-3)
In His own country knowing who His earthly parents were, those hearing Jesus were astonished. Those listening to Jesus share wanted to know from whence hath this man these things. This knowledge that was not earthly but ever sustaining -- heavenly. More importantly, these asked what wisdom is this which is given unto Him, that even such mighty works are wrought by His hands.
Miracle after miracle. Wisdom and knowledge displayed every time the Pharisees and scribes, and the lawyers tried to trick Him. While Jesus continued to heal the sick, and open the eyes of the blind, healing the broken-hearted, those who watched Him had questions. And the list of questions growing -- "What manner of man is this?"
My point is this -- when did we who profess to believe stop marvelling at the goodness and mercy of the Lord Jesus, knowing that He shed His precious, holy blood on a cross for us? When did we stop acknowledging all the blessings the Lord Jesus bestows upon us every day, confessing His Name in all that we do? When did we stop being thankful for His mighty deliverance from situations that could have been detrimental? When will we rejoice because we now live forevermore?
More importantly, when will we become equally "astonished" at the wonderful works of His hands to the point that our hearts and minds are transformed? Yes, we have so very much to be thankful for, knowing that herein -- within the good news gospel of the Lord Jesus Christ, is love made perfect.
"And we have known and believed the love that God hath to us. God is love; and he that dwelleth in love dwells in God, and God in him. Herein is our love made perfect, that we may have boldness in the day of judgment: because as He is, so are we in this world. There is no fear in love; but perfect love casteth out fear ...." (I John 4:16-18)
Meditate on these things this day! Stand in the offering plate.
Whereof The Holy Ghost Also Is A Witness To Us; For After That He Had Said Before - Part 2389
"Therefore being by the right hand of God exalted, and having received of the Father the promise of the Holy Ghost, He hath shed forth this, which ye now see and hear." (Acts 2:33)
As early as David's writings in the Psalms, we begin to see prophecies about Jesus, who would save His people from their sins. For example, David writes, "According to Thy name, O God, so [is] Thy praise unto the ends of the earth: Thy right hand is full of righteousness." (Psalm 48:10)
In another place, Isaiah writes, "Fear thou not; for I AM with thee: be not dismayed; for I AM thy God: I will strengthen thee; yea, I will help thee; yea, I will uphold thee with the right hand of My righteousness." (Isaiah 41:10)
Again He said, "Therefore hear the Word of the Lord; I saw the Lord sitting upon His throne, and all the host of heaven standing on His right hand and on His left." (II Chronicles 18:18)
"And He said, "Hear thou therefore the Word of the Lord: I saw the Lord sitting on His throne, and all the host of heaven standing by Him on His right hand and on His left" (I Kings 22:18-20)
"And many other things blasphemously spake they against Him [Jesus]. And as soon as it was day, the elders of the people and the chief priests and the scribes came together, and led Him into their council, saying, "Art Thou the Christ? tell us." And He said unto them, "If I tell you, ye will not believe: and if I also ask [you], ye will not answer Me, nor let [Me] go. Hereafter shall the Son of man sit on the right hand of the power of God." Then said they all, "Art Thou then the Son of God?" And He said unto them, "Ye say that I AM." (Luke 22:65-70)
"So then after the Lord had spoken unto them, He was received up into heaven, and sat on the right hand of God. And they went forth, and preached every where, the Lord working with [them], and confirming the Word with signs following. Amen." (Mark 16:19-20)
"The God of our fathers raised up Jesus, whom ye slew and hanged on a tree. Him hath God exalted with His right hand [to be] a Prince and a Saviour, for to give repentance to Israel, and forgiveness of sins. And we are His witnesses of these things; and [so is] also the Holy Ghost, whom God hath given to them that obey Him." (Acts 5:30-32)
When Saul was responsible for having table-servant Stephen stoned, the scripture saith, "But he, being full of the Holy Ghost, looked up steadfastly into heaven, and saw the glory of God, and Jesus standing on the right hand of God, and said, "Behold, I see the heavens opened, and the Son of man standing on the right hand of God." Then they cried out with a loud voice, and stopped their ears, and ran upon him with one accord ..." (Acts 7:55-57)
"If ye then be risen with Christ, seek those things which are above, where Christ sits on the right hand of God. Set your affection on things above, not on things on the earth. For ye are dead, and your life is hid with Christ in God." (Colossians 3:1-3)
"And every priest stands daily ministering and offering often times the same sacrifices, which can never take away sins: but this man, after He had offered one sacrifice for sins for ever, sat down on the right hand of God; from henceforth expecting till His enemies be made His footstool. For by one offering He hath perfected for ever them that are sanctified. [Whereof] the Holy Ghost also is a witness to us: for after that He had said before," (Hebrews 10:11-15)
"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: who is gone into heaven, and is on the right hand of God; angels and authorities and powers being made subject unto Him." (I Peter 3:21-22)
The remaining scriptures regarding the right hand of God are found in the New Testament.
In the promises, apostle Paul asks, "Who shall lay any thing to the charge of God’s elect? [It is] God that justifies. Who is he that condemns? [It is] Christ that died, yea rather, that is risen again, who is even at the right hand of God, who also makes intercession for us. Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? shall tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or peril, or sword?" (Roans 8:33-35)
"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: who is gone into heaven, and is on the right hand of God; angels and authorities and powers being made subject unto Him." (I Peter 3:21-22)
Indeed, Thy right hand is full of righteousness.
Stand in the offering plate.
When Ye Seek With All Your Heart, Ye Shall Find The Lord Of Glory! - Part 2388
"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 28:9-16)
As we know, the Lord God revealed to us His salvation plan in His Word -- a plan of salvation that was decided before the foundation of the world was formed. For believers in the Lord Jesus by faith, the plan of salvation has become the greatest love story ever told. This is why we adorn the doctrine of God our Saviour in all things, standing faithfully upon the Rock which is Christ, and continuing steadfastly in the apostles' doctrine, praising the Lord God our Saviour Jesus the Christ.
In this context, we are called to search the scriptures for truth, and to do so with a determination so that we are NOT deceived by the falsehood(s) of those who deliberately make lies their refuge. (Acts 20:28; Acts 2:36-41; Titus 3:4-7; I Timothy 3:16; II John 1:9)
When we do, we will -- as Jesus said -- find the He who is both Lord and Christ. (Acts 2:36) This same Jesus, who is the Head of the body of Christ church. This same Jesus who declares Himself to be the Alpha and Omega, the first and the last, the beginning and the ending. (Acts 2:36; Revelation 1:8) This same Jesus -- the Great I AM from the Old Testament who willingly became our Saviour. (Titus 3:4-7; Titus 2:13; Acts 20:28) This same Jesus -- the Great Shepherd who willingly laid down His life for His sheep.
Yes, for God so loved you and I! (John 3:16; I Timothy 5:19) "He was in the world and the world was made by Him and the world knew Him not. He came unto His own and His own received Him not." (John 1:10-11) Emmanuel, being interpreted, God with us. (Matthew 1:21-23) The same Rock which is Christ that followed the Israelites through the Red Sea. (I Corinthians 10:1-4)
It is for this reason that we "study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that need not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the Word of truth." (II Timothy 2:15)
Apostle Paul wrote, "I told you before, and foretell you, as if I were present, the second time; and being absent now I write to them which heretofore have sinned, and to all other, that, if I come again, I will not spare: since ye seek a proof of Christ speaking in me, which to you-ward is not weak, but is mighty in you. For though He was crucified through weakness, yet He liveth by the power of God. For we also are weak in Him, but we shall live with Him by the power of God toward you.
Examine yourselves, whether ye be in the faith; prove your own selves. Know ye not your own selves, how that Jesus Christ is in you, except ye be reprobates? But I trust that ye shall know that we are not reprobates. Now I pray to God that ye do no evil; not that we should appear approved, but that ye should do that which is honest, though we be as reprobates. For we can do nothing against the truth, but for the truth." (II Corinthians 13:2-8)
Lots of good insights here -- if we would only seek Jesus through His Word. This same Jesus who said, "I Am the Bread of Life!'
Stand in the offering plate.
As we know, the Lord God revealed to us His salvation plan in His Word -- a plan of salvation that was decided before the foundation of the world was formed. For believers in the Lord Jesus by faith, the plan of salvation has become the greatest love story ever told. This is why we adorn the doctrine of God our Saviour in all things, standing faithfully upon the Rock which is Christ, and continuing steadfastly in the apostles' doctrine, praising the Lord God our Saviour Jesus the Christ.
In this context, we are called to search the scriptures for truth, and to do so with a determination so that we are NOT deceived by the falsehood(s) of those who deliberately make lies their refuge. (Acts 20:28; Acts 2:36-41; Titus 3:4-7; I Timothy 3:16; II John 1:9)
When we do, we will -- as Jesus said -- find the He who is both Lord and Christ. (Acts 2:36) This same Jesus, who is the Head of the body of Christ church. This same Jesus who declares Himself to be the Alpha and Omega, the first and the last, the beginning and the ending. (Acts 2:36; Revelation 1:8) This same Jesus -- the Great I AM from the Old Testament who willingly became our Saviour. (Titus 3:4-7; Titus 2:13; Acts 20:28) This same Jesus -- the Great Shepherd who willingly laid down His life for His sheep.
Yes, for God so loved you and I! (John 3:16; I Timothy 5:19) "He was in the world and the world was made by Him and the world knew Him not. He came unto His own and His own received Him not." (John 1:10-11) Emmanuel, being interpreted, God with us. (Matthew 1:21-23) The same Rock which is Christ that followed the Israelites through the Red Sea. (I Corinthians 10:1-4)
It is for this reason that we "study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that need not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the Word of truth." (II Timothy 2:15)
Apostle Paul wrote, "I told you before, and foretell you, as if I were present, the second time; and being absent now I write to them which heretofore have sinned, and to all other, that, if I come again, I will not spare: since ye seek a proof of Christ speaking in me, which to you-ward is not weak, but is mighty in you. For though He was crucified through weakness, yet He liveth by the power of God. For we also are weak in Him, but we shall live with Him by the power of God toward you.
Examine yourselves, whether ye be in the faith; prove your own selves. Know ye not your own selves, how that Jesus Christ is in you, except ye be reprobates? But I trust that ye shall know that we are not reprobates. Now I pray to God that ye do no evil; not that we should appear approved, but that ye should do that which is honest, though we be as reprobates. For we can do nothing against the truth, but for the truth." (II Corinthians 13:2-8)
Lots of good insights here -- if we would only seek Jesus through His Word. This same Jesus who said, "I Am the Bread of Life!'
Stand in the offering plate.
Behold, A Tried Stone, A Precious Corner Stone, A Sure Foundation, His Name JESUS -- The Lamb Of God! - Part 2387
Jesus said, "... for the Holy Ghost shall teach you in the same hour what ye ought to say." (Luke 12:12)
On the Old Testament side, the Lord God through the prophet Isaiah asks two questions which still holds much relevance to believers this day. These are -- "Whom shall He teach knowledge? And whom shall He make to understand doctrine?"
Note that in this same scriptural passage, the Lord also gives us the answers. These are -- to "them that are weaned from the milk, and drawn from the breasts. For precept must be upon precept, precept upon precept; line upon line, line upon line; here a little, and there a little: for with stammering lips and another tongue will He speak to this people. To whom He [also] said, "This is the rest wherewith ye may cause the weary to rest; and this is the refreshing ..."
The times of refreshing found in that last sentence is notable because herein the Lord God declares to His people -- "this is the rest wherewith ye may cause the weary to rest, and this is the refreshing -- the anointing that can only come from being filled with the Holy Ghost to overflowing -- the Spirit of our Lord God and Saviour Jesus the Christ dwelling within.
Remember, when Jesus walked on earth, He said, "Come unto Me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you, and learn of Me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls." (Matthew 11:28-29)
On the Old Testament side, the Lord God through the prophet Isaiah asks two questions which still holds much relevance to believers this day. These are -- "Whom shall He teach knowledge? And whom shall He make to understand doctrine?"
Note that in this same scriptural passage, the Lord also gives us the answers. These are -- to "them that are weaned from the milk, and drawn from the breasts. For precept must be upon precept, precept upon precept; line upon line, line upon line; here a little, and there a little: for with stammering lips and another tongue will He speak to this people. To whom He [also] said, "This is the rest wherewith ye may cause the weary to rest; and this is the refreshing ..."
The times of refreshing found in that last sentence is notable because herein the Lord God declares to His people -- "this is the rest wherewith ye may cause the weary to rest, and this is the refreshing -- the anointing that can only come from being filled with the Holy Ghost to overflowing -- the Spirit of our Lord God and Saviour Jesus the Christ dwelling within.
Remember, when Jesus walked on earth, He said, "Come unto Me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you, and learn of Me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls." (Matthew 11:28-29)
Indeed, Jesus is the rest and refreshing which Isaiah was prophesying. And, as we know, at the appointed time, the angel of the Lord appeared, saying, "And ye shall call His Name JESUS, for He shall save His people from their sin ... Emmanuel, being interpreted, God with us!" (Matthew 1:21-23)
The scriptures further confirm that "this [JESUS] 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." 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." (Acts 4:11-13)
That this same Jesus whom ye have crucified is both Lord and Christ. (Acts 2:36)
The scriptures further confirm that "this [JESUS] 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." 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." (Acts 4:11-13)
That this same Jesus whom ye have crucified is both Lord and Christ. (Acts 2:36)
In part, these marvelled because of the wisdom and knowledge of the Lord that Peter and John displayed from spending time with Jesus. But also, because the Lord Jesus confirmed what He had earlier said through Isaiah, when He said He would speak to this people with stammering lips and another tongue. The prophet Joel alludes to this same occasion -- which came to fruition on the day of Pentecost -- the people from every nation hearing the people speaking in their own language. (Acts 2:1-47)
Yet, sadly, as this same scriptural scripture in Isaiah points out, there are those who would not hear. Their eyes and ears closed to the Word of the Lord. Their hearts shut tight against this same Jesus -- the Word made flesh -- who willingly shed His precious, holy blood so that you and I could have abundant life in Him. (John 1:1-14) For these latter, the prophecy in Isaiah continued -- "But the Word of the LORD was unto them precept upon precept, precept upon precept; line upon line, line upon line; here a little, and there a little; that they might go, and fall backward, and be broken, and snared, and taken."
The Lord God continues, saying, "Hear the Word of the LORD, ye scornful men, that rule this people which is in Jerusalem. Because ye have said, "We have made a covenant with death, and with hell are we at agreement; when the overflowing scourge shall pass through, it shall not come unto us: for we have made lies our refuge, and under falsehood have we hid ourselves."
In both scriptural examples, the same Word of the Lord speaking through Isaiah. In both examples, the same precept upon precept and line upon line, here a little and there a little offered to one and all. But what do we see? This same good news gospel message that is life giving and everlasting also being rejected by others who would not hear the Lord our God's saving grace message. A similar example is cited in Hebrews 4:
"Let us therefore fear, lest, a promise being left [us] of entering into His rest, any of you should seem to come short of it. For unto us was the gospel preached, as well as unto them: but the Word preached did not profit them, not being mixed with faith in them that heard it. For we which have believed do enter into rest, as He said, "As I have sworn in My wrath, if they shall enter into My rest: although the works were finished from the foundation of the world."
For He spake in a certain place of the seventh day on this wise, And God did rest the seventh day from all His works. And in this [place] again, "If they shall enter into My rest." Seeing therefore it remains that some must enter therein, and they to whom it was first preached entered not in because of unbelief: again, He limits a certain day, saying in David, "To day, after so long a time; as it is said, "To day if ye will hear His voice, harden not your hearts." For if Jesus had given them rest, then would He not afterward have spoken of another day. There remains therefore a rest to the people of God.
For he that is entered into His rest, he also hath ceased from his own works, as God [did] from His. Let us labour therefore to enter into that rest, lest any man fall after the same example of unbelief." (Hebrews 4:1-11)
Therefore, we who believe in the Lord Jesus by faith, adorning the doctrine of God our Saviour in all things, are encouraged to stand faithfully upon the Rock which is Christ, continuing steadfastly in the apostles' doctrine, praising the Lord God our Saviour Jesus the Christ in all things -- so that we do NOT become deceived by the falsehood(s) of those who deliberately make lies [the traditions of men] their refuge. (Acts 20:28; Acts 2:36-41; Titus 3:4-7; I Timothy 3:16; II John 1:9)
Knowing too that this same Jesus is both Lord and Christ; the Head of the body of Christ church. He is the Alpha and Omega; the first and the last; the beginning and the ending. (Acts 2:36; Revelation 1:8) And He -- the Great I Am who created us in the beginning has in this dispensation become our Saviour, so that we might receive His love and mercy in our hearts. (Titus 3:4-7; Titus 2:13; Acts 20:28) The mystery that was held in the bosom of the Father from the foundation of the world.
For God so loved you and I! (John 3:16; I Timothy 5:19)
Stand in the offering plate.
For God so loved you and I! (John 3:16; I Timothy 5:19)
Stand in the offering plate.
Give Ye Ear, And Hear My Voice; Hearken, And Hear My Speech - Part 2386
"All scripture [is] given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness ..." (II Timothy 3:16)
Jesus took this further when He asked the Sadducee's (whom as a sect do not believe in the resurrection) -- "Do ye not therefore err because ye know not the scriptures, neither the power of God?" (Mark 12:24) Thus, if we understand the message Jesus is conveying to the Sadducees herein, we will come to know that when we know the scriptures -- the Word as it is written -- we will also come to experience the power of the living God, and how He works in our lives.
Jesus took this further when He asked the Sadducee's (whom as a sect do not believe in the resurrection) -- "Do ye not therefore err because ye know not the scriptures, neither the power of God?" (Mark 12:24) Thus, if we understand the message Jesus is conveying to the Sadducees herein, we will come to know that when we know the scriptures -- the Word as it is written -- we will also come to experience the power of the living God, and how He works in our lives.
But sadly, too many, as Jesus pointed out, compromise in their faith, settling for doctrines the commandments of men. Specifically, Jesus said, "Howbeit in vain do they worship Me, teaching for doctrines the commandments of men." (Mark 7:7) We settle for the modern day religious traditions and institution gratifying sacraments (idol worship) rather than the scriptures which give instruction in righteousness.
Nevertheless, as Jesus conveyed to the eleven disciples in the same mountain where Jesus had appointed them to teach, He instructs "them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I AM with you alway, [even] unto the end of the world. Amen." (Matthew 28:20)
In this same passage of scripture, "all power is given unto Jesus in heaven and in earth." In fact, here was Jesus, just prior to ascending saying to the eleven to go and teach all nations, baptizing them in the Name, teaching them to observe all things whatsoever He has commanded them.
And because God is not the author of confusion, He clarifies this very same instruction from Matthew a second time in Mark so that we are not deceived or led astray by the whims of those who pretend to know the scriptures but do not.
From Mark 16:15-18: Jesus said unto them, "Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature; he that believes and is baptized shall be saved; but he that believes not shall be damned. And these signs shall follow them that believe; In My Name shall they cast out devils; they shall speak with new tongues; they shall take up serpents; and if they drink any deadly thing, it shall not hurt them; they shall lay hands on the sick, and they shall recover." (Mark 16:15-18)
In whose name? In My Name -- said Jesus! This same Jesus who said, "Before Abraham was, I AM."
In that same scriptural account from Mark, we see that after the Lord had spoken to the eleven, He was received up into heaven and sat on the right hand of God" -- until all His enemies are put under His feet. From there, they went forth and preached everywhere, the Lord working with them, and confirming the Word with signs following. (Mark 16:19-20)
Acts 1 continues forward from Mark stating:
"The former treatise have I made, O Theophilus, of all that Jesus began both to do and teach, until the day in which He was taken up, after that He THROUGH the Holy Ghost had given commandments unto the apostles whom He had chosen: to whom also He shewed Himself alive after His passion by many infallible proofs, being seen of them forty days, and speaking of the things pertaining to the kingdom of God: and, being assembled together with [them], commanded them that they should not depart from Jerusalem, but wait for the promise of the Father, which, [saith He], ye have heard of Me. For John truly baptized with water; but ye shall be baptized with the Holy Ghost not many days hence." (Acts 1:1-5)
But before He ascends, note what Jesus says to the eleven, "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 Judæa, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth." And when He had spoken these things, while they beheld, He was taken up; and a cloud received Him out of their sight.
And while they looked steadfastly toward heaven as He went up, behold, two men stood by them in white apparel; which also said, "Ye men of Galilee, why stand ye gazing up into heaven? This same Jesus, which is taken up from you into heaven, shall so come in like manner as ye have seen Him go into heaven." (Acts 1:8-11)
In this same passage of scripture, "all power is given unto Jesus in heaven and in earth." In fact, here was Jesus, just prior to ascending saying to the eleven to go and teach all nations, baptizing them in the Name, teaching them to observe all things whatsoever He has commanded them.
And because God is not the author of confusion, He clarifies this very same instruction from Matthew a second time in Mark so that we are not deceived or led astray by the whims of those who pretend to know the scriptures but do not.
From Mark 16:15-18: Jesus said unto them, "Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature; he that believes and is baptized shall be saved; but he that believes not shall be damned. And these signs shall follow them that believe; In My Name shall they cast out devils; they shall speak with new tongues; they shall take up serpents; and if they drink any deadly thing, it shall not hurt them; they shall lay hands on the sick, and they shall recover." (Mark 16:15-18)
In whose name? In My Name -- said Jesus! This same Jesus who said, "Before Abraham was, I AM."
In that same scriptural account from Mark, we see that after the Lord had spoken to the eleven, He was received up into heaven and sat on the right hand of God" -- until all His enemies are put under His feet. From there, they went forth and preached everywhere, the Lord working with them, and confirming the Word with signs following. (Mark 16:19-20)
Acts 1 continues forward from Mark stating:
"The former treatise have I made, O Theophilus, of all that Jesus began both to do and teach, until the day in which He was taken up, after that He THROUGH the Holy Ghost had given commandments unto the apostles whom He had chosen: to whom also He shewed Himself alive after His passion by many infallible proofs, being seen of them forty days, and speaking of the things pertaining to the kingdom of God: and, being assembled together with [them], commanded them that they should not depart from Jerusalem, but wait for the promise of the Father, which, [saith He], ye have heard of Me. For John truly baptized with water; but ye shall be baptized with the Holy Ghost not many days hence." (Acts 1:1-5)
And while they looked steadfastly toward heaven as He went up, behold, two men stood by them in white apparel; which also said, "Ye men of Galilee, why stand ye gazing up into heaven? This same Jesus, which is taken up from you into heaven, shall so come in like manner as ye have seen Him go into heaven." (Acts 1:8-11)
Moving forward, we see a twelfth apostle chosen (Matthias) to replace Judas who had betrayed Jesus in the Garden. (Acts 1:23-26) When the 120 disciples in the upper room prayed in one accord, and said, "Thou Lord, which knows the hearts of all [men] shew whether of these two Thou hast chosen, that he may take part of this ministry and apostleship, from which Judas by transgression fell, that he might go to his own place. And they gave forth their lots; and the lot fell upon Matthias, and he was numbered with the eleven apostles. (Acts 1:15-26)
You see, the early church did not worship a triad, three-headed triune g/God but the One and Only Living God who willingly became our Saviour -- His Name JESUS in this current dispensation of grace -- loving us enough to shed His precious, holy blood on a cross for our sins. (Acts 20:28; I Corinthians 5:19; I Timothy 3:16; Isaiah 9:6; John 1:10-11) He is the Good Shepherd who laid down His life for His sheep. This is why who believe in Jesus by faith desire also to be water baptized in His precious, holy Name -- the Name of the Lord Jesus Christ. (Acts 2:36-41; Acts 10:44-48; Romans 6:3-4; I Peter 3:21) But I digress.
As Peter points out, Judas had been numbered with them, and had (according to scripture) obtained part of this ministry -- the Word made flesh that dwelt among us. But rather than continuing in the faith, Judas (as prophesied from afore) decided in his heart to settle for the trinkets of this world. To compromise. Indeed, in the end, Judas valued the thirty pieces of silver more than knowing the risen King of kings and Lord of lords personally. And the consequences of his decision to betray Jesus? To this very day his decision known by those both near and far.
"Men [and] brethren, this scripture must needs have been fulfilled, which the Holy Ghost by the mouth of David spake before concerning Judas, which was guide to them that took Jesus. For he was numbered with us, and had obtained part of this ministry." (Acts 1:15-17)
The lesson herein? Stay true to the Word, as it is written. Know that when Peter standing with the apostles on the day of Pentecost told those in attendance that this same Jesus whom ye have crucified is both Lord and Christ, we are to be pricked in our heart also and to repent, being water baptized in the Name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, so that we too shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost -- the Spirit of the risen Lord Jesus dwelling within. (Acts 2:36-41)
And when we become clothed in His righteousness, we too will continue steadfastly in the apostles doctrine and fellowship, in breaking of bread from house to house and in prayers, continuing daily with one accord in the temple, and dealing our meat with gladness and singleness of heart, praising our Lord God and Saviour always.
There is more to come but the message -- don't compromise your faith. Press toward the mark which is Christ dwelling within, and He will be faithful to you in all things.
Stand in the offering plate.
Monday, July 1, 2019
Give Ye Ear, And Hear My Voice, Saith The Lord, Hearken, And Hear My Speech - Part 2385
God is not the Author of confusion. Peter (and the rest of the apostles) understood the message that Jesus taught, and they carried these same instructions to fruition in Acts 2:36-41. The apostles did not act outside of Jesus' teachings, nor were they preaching another gospel to the first 3,000 souls saved on the day of Pentecost.
Indeed, Peter told the people from every nation on the day of Pentecost that this same JESUS whom ye/they have crucified is both Lord and Christ. This same JESUS is the promised Messiah. This same JESUS is the prophesied Christ -- the same Rock which followed the Israelites through the Red Sea -- the Rock which was Christ. (I Corinthians 10:1-4)
This same JESUS -- the One and Only Lord God who loved us so much that He Himself would provide a way of salvation. His mercies abundant and everlasting. After the kindness and love of God our Saviour toward man appeared. (Titus 3:4-7) To wit, God was in Christ reconciling the world unto Himself. (II Corinthians 5:17; Acts 20:28)
And He has instructed us to repent, and to be water baptized in the precious holy Name of the Lord Jesus Christ for the remission of sins so that we could receive the gift of the Holy Ghost. Note that this instruction is given to every one of us. (Acts 2:38) Another example can be taken from Cornelius and his family. Peter did not stop preaching to Cornelius when he received the Holy Ghost but commanded them to be water baptized in the Name of the Lord Jesus.
Note that they did not ask to be water baptized! Still, Peter commanded them to be water baptized anyway. Why? So that the Holy Ghost salvation message could be extended to the Gentiles. From Acts 10:44-48:
"While Peter yet spake these words, the Holy Ghost fell on all them which heard the Word. And they of the circumcision which believed were astonished, as many as came with Peter, because that on the Gentiles also was poured out the gift of the Holy Ghost. For they heard them speak with tongues, and magnify God. Then answered Peter, "Can any man forbid water, that these should not be baptized, which have received the Holy Ghost as well as we?" And he COMMANDED them to be baptized in the Name of the Lord. Then prayed they him to tarry certain days."
Don't let the modern day religious culture lead you astray. There is only one gospel message.
Stand in the offering plate.
Indeed, Peter told the people from every nation on the day of Pentecost that this same JESUS whom ye/they have crucified is both Lord and Christ. This same JESUS is the promised Messiah. This same JESUS is the prophesied Christ -- the same Rock which followed the Israelites through the Red Sea -- the Rock which was Christ. (I Corinthians 10:1-4)
This same JESUS -- the One and Only Lord God who loved us so much that He Himself would provide a way of salvation. His mercies abundant and everlasting. After the kindness and love of God our Saviour toward man appeared. (Titus 3:4-7) To wit, God was in Christ reconciling the world unto Himself. (II Corinthians 5:17; Acts 20:28)
And He has instructed us to repent, and to be water baptized in the precious holy Name of the Lord Jesus Christ for the remission of sins so that we could receive the gift of the Holy Ghost. Note that this instruction is given to every one of us. (Acts 2:38) Another example can be taken from Cornelius and his family. Peter did not stop preaching to Cornelius when he received the Holy Ghost but commanded them to be water baptized in the Name of the Lord Jesus.
Note that they did not ask to be water baptized! Still, Peter commanded them to be water baptized anyway. Why? So that the Holy Ghost salvation message could be extended to the Gentiles. From Acts 10:44-48:
"While Peter yet spake these words, the Holy Ghost fell on all them which heard the Word. And they of the circumcision which believed were astonished, as many as came with Peter, because that on the Gentiles also was poured out the gift of the Holy Ghost. For they heard them speak with tongues, and magnify God. Then answered Peter, "Can any man forbid water, that these should not be baptized, which have received the Holy Ghost as well as we?" And he COMMANDED them to be baptized in the Name of the Lord. Then prayed they him to tarry certain days."
Don't let the modern day religious culture lead you astray. There is only one gospel message.
Stand in the offering plate.
Wait For The Promise Of The Father, Which Jesus Said, Ye Have Heard Of Me! - Part 2384
Ye must be born again!
This was the conversation Jesus was having with Nicodemus in John 3. Jesus is not speaking here about a natural birth. How do we know? Because when Nicodemus asks Jesus if being born again means entering into his mother's womb a second time, Jesus tells him no. In fact, the key message that Jesus is conveying is that being born again spiritually has nothing to do with being born of the flesh.
In the gospels, we learn of the great commission wherein we are called to repent and be baptized, and to disseminate this same message across the world. The religious community has dubbed these instructions the Great Commission -- albeit, these tend to focus on Matthew's account, and not the accounts written in the other gospels. Most certainly, the latter also ignores Acts 2 wherein Peter (standing with the eleven) on the day of Pentecost instructs the first 3,000 souls saved on the New Testament side to repent and be water baptized in the precious, holy Name of the Lord Jesus Christ so they can receive the Holy Ghost, but I digress somewhat. (Acts 2:36-47; Acts 10:44-48)
Jesus said in Matthew's account: "GO YE THEREFORE, AND TEACH ALL NATIONS, BAPTIZING THEM in the Name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost: TEACHING THEM TO OBSERVE ALL THINGS WHATSOEVER I HAVE COMMANDED YOU: and, lo, I am with you always, even unto the end of the world. Amen." (Matthew 28:19-20)
And Jesus said, "GO YE INTO ALL THE WORLD, AND PREACH THE GOSPEL TO EVERY CREATURE; he THAT BELIEVES AND IS BAPTIZED SHALL BE SAVED; but he THAT BELIEVES NOT SHALL BE DAMNED. And these signs shall follow them that believe; In My Name shall they cast out devils; they shall speak with new tongues; they shall take up serpents; and if they drink any deadly thing, it shall not hurt them; they shall lay hands on the sick, and they shall recover." (Mark 16:15-18)
In opening their understanding, Jesus did so that they might understand the scriptures, and said unto them, "Thus it is written, and thus it behooved Christ to suffer, and to rise from the dead the third day, AND THAT REPENTANCE AND REMISSION OF SINS SHOULD BE PREACHED IN HIS NAME AMONG ALL NATIONS, BEGINNING AT JERUSALEM. And YE ARE WITNESSES OF THESE THINGS. And, BEHOLD, I SEND THE PROMISE OF MY FATHER UPON YOU: but tarry ye in the city of Jerusalem, UNTIL YE BE ENDURED WITH POWER FROM ON HIGH. And He led them out as far as to Bethany, and He lifted up his hands, and blessed them.
And it came to pass, while He blessed them, He was parted from them, and carried up into heaven. And they worshipped Him, and returned to Jerusalem with great joy: and were continually in the temple, praising and blessing God. Amen." (Luke 24:47-53)
And from John's account -- "Then the same day at evening, being the first [day] of the week, when the doors were shut where the disciples were assembled for fear of the Jews, came Jesus and stood in the midst, and saith unto them, "Peace be unto you." And when He had so said, He shewed unto them His hands and His side. Then were the disciples glad, WHEN THEY SAW THE LORD." Then SAID JESUS TO THEM AGAIN, "PEACE BE UNTO YOU: as MY FATHER HATH SENT ME, EVEN SO SEND I YOU."
And WHEN HE HAD SAID THIS, HE BREATHED ON THEM, AND SAITH UNTO THEM, "RECEIVE YE THE HOLY GHOST: Whose soever sins YE REMIT, THEY ARE REMITTED UNTO THEM; and whose soever sins YE RETAIN, THEY ARE RETAINED." (John 20:19-23)
Jesus said in Matthew's account: "GO YE THEREFORE, AND TEACH ALL NATIONS, BAPTIZING THEM in the Name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost: TEACHING THEM TO OBSERVE ALL THINGS WHATSOEVER I HAVE COMMANDED YOU: and, lo, I am with you always, even unto the end of the world. Amen." (Matthew 28:19-20)
And Jesus said, "GO YE INTO ALL THE WORLD, AND PREACH THE GOSPEL TO EVERY CREATURE; he THAT BELIEVES AND IS BAPTIZED SHALL BE SAVED; but he THAT BELIEVES NOT SHALL BE DAMNED. And these signs shall follow them that believe; In My Name shall they cast out devils; they shall speak with new tongues; they shall take up serpents; and if they drink any deadly thing, it shall not hurt them; they shall lay hands on the sick, and they shall recover." (Mark 16:15-18)
In opening their understanding, Jesus did so that they might understand the scriptures, and said unto them, "Thus it is written, and thus it behooved Christ to suffer, and to rise from the dead the third day, AND THAT REPENTANCE AND REMISSION OF SINS SHOULD BE PREACHED IN HIS NAME AMONG ALL NATIONS, BEGINNING AT JERUSALEM. And YE ARE WITNESSES OF THESE THINGS. And, BEHOLD, I SEND THE PROMISE OF MY FATHER UPON YOU: but tarry ye in the city of Jerusalem, UNTIL YE BE ENDURED WITH POWER FROM ON HIGH. And He led them out as far as to Bethany, and He lifted up his hands, and blessed them.
And it came to pass, while He blessed them, He was parted from them, and carried up into heaven. And they worshipped Him, and returned to Jerusalem with great joy: and were continually in the temple, praising and blessing God. Amen." (Luke 24:47-53)
And from John's account -- "Then the same day at evening, being the first [day] of the week, when the doors were shut where the disciples were assembled for fear of the Jews, came Jesus and stood in the midst, and saith unto them, "Peace be unto you." And when He had so said, He shewed unto them His hands and His side. Then were the disciples glad, WHEN THEY SAW THE LORD." Then SAID JESUS TO THEM AGAIN, "PEACE BE UNTO YOU: as MY FATHER HATH SENT ME, EVEN SO SEND I YOU."
And WHEN HE HAD SAID THIS, HE BREATHED ON THEM, AND SAITH UNTO THEM, "RECEIVE YE THE HOLY GHOST: Whose soever sins YE REMIT, THEY ARE REMITTED UNTO THEM; and whose soever sins YE RETAIN, THEY ARE RETAINED." (John 20:19-23)
These scriptures take us straight to the book of Acts. From Acts 1:1-11:
"The former treatise have I made, O Theophilus, of all that Jesus began both to do and teach, UNTIL THE DAY IN WHICH HE WAS TAKEN UP, AFTER THAT HE THROUGH THE HOLY GHOST HAD GIVEN COMMANDMENTS UNTO THE APOSTLES WHOM HE HAD CHOSEN: TO WHOM ALSO HE SHEWED HIMSELF ALIVE AFTER HIS PASSION by many infallible proofs, being seen of them forty days, and speaking of the things pertaining to the kingdom of God:
And, being assembled together with them, commanded them that they should not depart from Jerusalem, "BUT WAIT FOR THE PROMISE OF THE FATHER, WHICH, "SAITH HE, "YE HAVE HEARD OF ME." For John truly baptized with water; but ye shall be baptized with the Holy Ghost not many days hence.
When they therefore were come together, they asked of him, saying, "Lord, wilt thou at this time restore again the kingdom to Israel?" And He said unto them, "It is not for you to know the times or the seasons, which the Father hath put in His own power. 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."
And, being assembled together with them, commanded them that they should not depart from Jerusalem, "BUT WAIT FOR THE PROMISE OF THE FATHER, WHICH, "SAITH HE, "YE HAVE HEARD OF ME." For John truly baptized with water; but ye shall be baptized with the Holy Ghost not many days hence.
When they therefore were come together, they asked of him, saying, "Lord, wilt thou at this time restore again the kingdom to Israel?" And He said unto them, "It is not for you to know the times or the seasons, which the Father hath put in His own power. 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."
And when He had spoken these things, while they beheld, He was taken up; and a cloud received Him out of their sight. And while they looked steadfastly toward heaven as He went up, behold, two men stood by them in white apparel; which also said, "Ye men of Galilee, why stand ye gazing up into heaven? this same Jesus, which is taken up from you into heaven, shall so come in like manner as ye have seen Him go into heaven." (Acts 1:1-11)
All these things were prophesied by the prophets from afore. The Word Himself speaking by His holy prophet Isaiah who prophesied His spoken Word of truth -- the same Word that was with God and was God. (John 1:1-)
As the Lord God speaking through Isaiah said, "When ye come to appear before Me, who hath required this at your hand, to tread My courts? Bring no more vain oblations; incense is an abomination unto Me; the new moons and sabbaths, the calling of assemblies, I cannot away with; it is iniquity, even the solemn meeting. Your new moons and your appointed feasts my soul hates they are a trouble unto Me; I am weary to bear them.
And when ye spread forth your hands, I will hide Mine eyes from you: yea, when ye make many prayers, I will not hear: your hands are full of blood. Wash you, make you clean; put away the evil of your doings from before Mine eyes; cease to do evil; learn to do well; seek judgment, relieve the oppressed, judge the fatherless, plead for the widow.
Come now, and let us reason together," saith the LORD, "though your sins be as scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they be red like crimson, they shall be as wool. If ye be willing and obedient ye shall eat the good of the land: But if ye refuse and rebel, ye shall be devoured with the sword; for the mouth of the Lord hath spoken it! (Isaiah 1:12-20)
As the Lord God speaking through Isaiah said, "When ye come to appear before Me, who hath required this at your hand, to tread My courts? Bring no more vain oblations; incense is an abomination unto Me; the new moons and sabbaths, the calling of assemblies, I cannot away with; it is iniquity, even the solemn meeting. Your new moons and your appointed feasts my soul hates they are a trouble unto Me; I am weary to bear them.
And when ye spread forth your hands, I will hide Mine eyes from you: yea, when ye make many prayers, I will not hear: your hands are full of blood. Wash you, make you clean; put away the evil of your doings from before Mine eyes; cease to do evil; learn to do well; seek judgment, relieve the oppressed, judge the fatherless, plead for the widow.
Come now, and let us reason together," saith the LORD, "though your sins be as scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they be red like crimson, they shall be as wool. If ye be willing and obedient ye shall eat the good of the land: But if ye refuse and rebel, ye shall be devoured with the sword; for the mouth of the Lord hath spoken it! (Isaiah 1:12-20)
What are some examples of the truth - referred to herein? Acts 22:16 and Acts 2:36-41.
In the first, Saul, after learning and accepting who Jesus is asked, "WHAT SHALL I DO"? and in the second, those dwelling at the house of Israel (after hearing Peter preach) asked, "WHAT SHALL WE DO?"
In the first, Saul, after learning and accepting who Jesus is asked, "WHAT SHALL I DO"? and in the second, those dwelling at the house of Israel (after hearing Peter preach) asked, "WHAT SHALL WE DO?"
The One and Only truth. One Lord, One Faith, One Baptism.
In Saul's account -- And I said, "WHAT SHALL I DO, LORD? "And the Lord said unto me, "ARISE, and go into Damascus; and there IT SHALL BE TOLD THEE OF ALL THINGS WHICH ARE APPOINTED FOR THEE TO DO." And when I could not see for the glory of that light, being led by the hand of them that were with me, I came into Damascus.
And one Ananias, a devout man according to the law, having a good report of all the Jews which dwelt there, came unto me, and stood, and said unto me, "Brother Saul, receive thy sight." And the same hour I looked up upon him. And he said, "The God of our fathers hath chosen thee, that thou shouldest KNOW HIS WILL, and SEE that JUST ONE, and shouldest HEAR the VOICE of HIS mouth. For thou shalt be HIS WITNESS unto all men of what thou hast SEEN and HEARD.
And now why tarriest thou? ARISE, AND BE BAPTIZED, AND WASH AWAY THY SINS, CALLING ON THE NAME OF THE LORD." (Acts 22:10-16)
In Saul's account -- And I said, "WHAT SHALL I DO, LORD? "And the Lord said unto me, "ARISE, and go into Damascus; and there IT SHALL BE TOLD THEE OF ALL THINGS WHICH ARE APPOINTED FOR THEE TO DO." And when I could not see for the glory of that light, being led by the hand of them that were with me, I came into Damascus.
And one Ananias, a devout man according to the law, having a good report of all the Jews which dwelt there, came unto me, and stood, and said unto me, "Brother Saul, receive thy sight." And the same hour I looked up upon him. And he said, "The God of our fathers hath chosen thee, that thou shouldest KNOW HIS WILL, and SEE that JUST ONE, and shouldest HEAR the VOICE of HIS mouth. For thou shalt be HIS WITNESS unto all men of what thou hast SEEN and HEARD.
And now why tarriest thou? ARISE, AND BE BAPTIZED, AND WASH AWAY THY SINS, CALLING ON THE NAME OF THE LORD." (Acts 22:10-16)
Note the two things Saul was told to do. Be filled with the Holy Ghost after being baptized, Saul's sins washed away, calling on His Name -- the precious, holy Name of the Lord Jesus. This teaching is consistent with the words Jesus spoke to Nicodemus.
That is, Jesus answered and said unto him, "Verily, verily, I say unto thee, except a man be born again he cannot see the Kingdom of God." Nicodemus saith unto Him, "How can a man be born when he is old? can he enter the second time into his mother's womb, and be born?" Jesus answered, "Verily, verily, I say unto thee, EXCEPT A MAN BE BORN OF WATER AND OF THE SPIRIT, he CANNOT ENTER INTO THE KINGDOM OF GOD." (John 3:1-5)
And then after Jesus was risen up, Peter (standing with the eleven 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." Now when they HEARD THIS, THEY WERE PRICKED IN THEIR HEART, and said unto Peter and to the rest of the apostles, "Men and brethren, WHAT SHALL WE DO?"
Then Peter said unto them, "REPENT, AND BE BAPTIZED EVERY ONE OF YOU IN THE NAME OF JESUS CHRIST FOR THE REMISSION OF SINS, AND YE SHALL RECEIVE THE GIFT OF THE HOLY GHOST. FOR THE PROMISE IS UNTO you, and to your children, and to all that are afar off, even as many as THE LORD OUR GOD SHALL CALL." And with many other words did he testify and exhort, saying, "Save yourselves from this untoward generation." THEN THEY THAT GLADLY RECEIVED HIS WORD WERE BAPTIZED: and the same day there were added unto them about three thousand souls." (Acts 2:36-41)
That is, Jesus answered and said unto him, "Verily, verily, I say unto thee, except a man be born again he cannot see the Kingdom of God." Nicodemus saith unto Him, "How can a man be born when he is old? can he enter the second time into his mother's womb, and be born?" Jesus answered, "Verily, verily, I say unto thee, EXCEPT A MAN BE BORN OF WATER AND OF THE SPIRIT, he CANNOT ENTER INTO THE KINGDOM OF GOD." (John 3:1-5)
And then after Jesus was risen up, Peter (standing with the eleven 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." Now when they HEARD THIS, THEY WERE PRICKED IN THEIR HEART, and said unto Peter and to the rest of the apostles, "Men and brethren, WHAT SHALL WE DO?"
Then Peter said unto them, "REPENT, AND BE BAPTIZED EVERY ONE OF YOU IN THE NAME OF JESUS CHRIST FOR THE REMISSION OF SINS, AND YE SHALL RECEIVE THE GIFT OF THE HOLY GHOST. FOR THE PROMISE IS UNTO you, and to your children, and to all that are afar off, even as many as THE LORD OUR GOD SHALL CALL." And with many other words did he testify and exhort, saying, "Save yourselves from this untoward generation." THEN THEY THAT GLADLY RECEIVED HIS WORD WERE BAPTIZED: and the same day there were added unto them about three thousand souls." (Acts 2:36-41)
They that gladly received His Word. The Acts 2:38 message marking the beginning of the New Testament church. The key to the kingdom unlocked. You see, in Matthew 28:19 Jesus told His disciples WHAT TO DO! Jesus TOLD them TO DO THAT -- to spread the good news gospel to all the world in His Name! In Mark 16:15,16 Jesus told them WHY TO DO IT! Mark gave them two choices in that they could either "BE" AS TO "BE SAVED" OR TO "BE" AS TO BE DAMNED"
In Luke 24:47 Jesus told them WHERE TO DO IT! In John 3:3-7 Jesus told them WHO NEEDS TO DO IT! Now in Acts 2:38 Peter told the first 3,000 souls how to do it. The same message has not changed since the early church -- even though modern day religious culture tries to say so.
Therefore, we can clearly see the teachings of Jesus come together in the same one accord as we witness on the day of Pentecost. So the good news gospel message again ...
What should I do? Repent,
And then what? Be baptized
Who? Every one of you
How? In the Name of Jesus Christ
Why? For the remission of sins
And what will happen? Ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost"
Matthew 28:19,20, Mark 16:15-20, Luke 24,47-53 are all the One and Same teaching that takes place on the Mount of Olives just prior to Jesus ascending into Heaven! God is not the Author of confusion. So my question -- who will you believe this day? The Word? or man-made traditions with no scriptural basis. You decide, but as for me and my house we are going to serve the Lord!
What should I do? Repent,
And then what? Be baptized
Who? Every one of you
How? In the Name of Jesus Christ
Why? For the remission of sins
And what will happen? Ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost"
Matthew 28:19,20, Mark 16:15-20, Luke 24,47-53 are all the One and Same teaching that takes place on the Mount of Olives just prior to Jesus ascending into Heaven! God is not the Author of confusion. So my question -- who will you believe this day? The Word? or man-made traditions with no scriptural basis. You decide, but as for me and my house we are going to serve the Lord!
Stand in the offering plate.
Though The Giants Will Be There, The Lord Jesus Will Get The Victory! - Part 2383
"And the key of the house of David will I lay upon His shoulder; so He shall open, and none shall shut; and He shall shut, and none shall open." (Isaiah 22:22)
"He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches. And to the angel of the church in Philadelphia write; "These things saith He that is holy, He that is true, He that hath the key of David, He that opens, and no man shuts; and shuts, and no man opens; I know thy works: behold, I have set before thee an open door, and no man can shut it: for thou hast a little strength, and hast kept My Word, and hast not denied My Name." (Revelation 3:8-9)
All these to say that when Jesus came to earth and shed His precious, holy on a cross at Calvary, He did so knowing that He would rise from the dead, ascend into heaven -- the full price for salvation for our sins now paid in full. This is the miracle of the cross -- when the veil was torn from heaven to earth so that you and I might have abundant life in Him.
This is the New Testament -- when the Dayspring from on high visited His people. This is the New Testament which is the Lord's doing. This is the New Testament wherein the Lord said He would do a new thing. A changing of the guard if you will -- wherein we can have abundant life.
The New Testament Gospels -- Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John record the life of Jesus Christ when He walked on this earth. "He was in the world and the world was made by Him and the world knew Him not. He came unto His own and His own received Him not." (John 1:10-11)
The Word made flesh and dwelt among us. God manifest in the flesh so that we could/would behold His glory. As John the baptizer said, "Behold, the Lamb of God!"
Sadly, however, there are far too many who don't understand who Jesus was, and is, or even why He came. Many don't know that when you have seen Jesus, we have seen the Father and know Him. (John 14:6-12; I Timothy 3:16; Isaiah 9:6)
Or, "to wit, God was in Christ reconciling the world unto Himself." (II Corinthians 5:19)
In fact, Jesus asked His disciples, "Who do men say that I AM?" The responses varied. Then Jesus asked a more revealing question, "Who do you say I AM?" Peter quickly responded, "Thou art The Christ, the Son of the Living God." Because of this answer, Peter was promised that God would build His church and that He would give him the keys to the kingdom. (Matthew 16:13-19)
Translated, what we are witnessing here is Peter being given authority BY GOD TO OPEN THE DOOR OF SALVATION TO All. You see, Peter received the Keys when he received the Gift of the Holy Ghost in Acts 2:1-4. Then Peter, having THE KEYS TO THE KINGDOM used them for the first time (Acts 2:16-47) On The Day of Pentecost when he UNLOCKED AND OPENED WIDE THE DOOR OF SALVATION TO THE JEWS.
Peter, standing with the eleven in one accord, told the people that this same Jesus whom they had crucified is both Lord and Christ. (Acts 2:36) When they were pricked in their hearts, they asked Peter, "What must we do?" Peter told them to "repent, and be baptized in the Name of the Lord Jesus Christ and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost. (Acts 2:37-41)
Later on, in Acts 8 the Samaritans had also been water baptized in the Name of Lord Jesus because (as the scripture states) these had not received yet the Gift of the Holy Ghost (Acts 8:15) Peter and John were then sent to lay hands on those baptized and to pray for them that they might receive the Holy Ghost. Note that only those that were water baptized received the gift of the Holy Ghost! Consequently, the door of salvation was unlocked and opened wide for the Samaritans also.
Peter then was sent and preached the Gospel unto the Gentiles, and while he was preaching the Word of God, the Holy Ghost fell upon them and they began to speak with other tongues. Peter then asked, "Can any man forbid water that have received the Holy Ghost as well as we?" (Acts 10:44-448) Then he commanded that they be water baptized in the Name of the Lord. The door again unlocked and opened wide for the Gentiles as well.
So, where did this wonderful salvation message begin? In John 3:1-7, when Jesus stopped to speak to Nicodemus, a man of the Pharisees, and a ruler of the Jews.
"The same came to Jesus by night, and said unto Him, "Rabbi, we know that Thou art a teacher come from God: for no man can do these miracles that Thou doest, except God be with Him. Jesus answered and said unto him, "Verily, verily, I say unto thee, EXCEPT a man be "BORN AGAIN" he CANNOT SEE the kingdom of God."
Nicodemus then asks Jesus how someone can be born again (naturally by entering a mother's womb a second time). Jesus answered, "Verily, verily, I say unto thee, except a man be BORN OF WATER AND OF THE SPIRIT, he cannot enter into the kingdom of God. That which is born of the flesh is flesh; and that which is born of the Spirit is spirit. Marvel not that I said unto thee, "YE MUST BE BORN AGAIN."
"He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches. And to the angel of the church in Philadelphia write; "These things saith He that is holy, He that is true, He that hath the key of David, He that opens, and no man shuts; and shuts, and no man opens; I know thy works: behold, I have set before thee an open door, and no man can shut it: for thou hast a little strength, and hast kept My Word, and hast not denied My Name." (Revelation 3:8-9)
All these to say that when Jesus came to earth and shed His precious, holy on a cross at Calvary, He did so knowing that He would rise from the dead, ascend into heaven -- the full price for salvation for our sins now paid in full. This is the miracle of the cross -- when the veil was torn from heaven to earth so that you and I might have abundant life in Him.
This is the New Testament -- when the Dayspring from on high visited His people. This is the New Testament which is the Lord's doing. This is the New Testament wherein the Lord said He would do a new thing. A changing of the guard if you will -- wherein we can have abundant life.
The New Testament Gospels -- Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John record the life of Jesus Christ when He walked on this earth. "He was in the world and the world was made by Him and the world knew Him not. He came unto His own and His own received Him not." (John 1:10-11)
The Word made flesh and dwelt among us. God manifest in the flesh so that we could/would behold His glory. As John the baptizer said, "Behold, the Lamb of God!"
Sadly, however, there are far too many who don't understand who Jesus was, and is, or even why He came. Many don't know that when you have seen Jesus, we have seen the Father and know Him. (John 14:6-12; I Timothy 3:16; Isaiah 9:6)
Or, "to wit, God was in Christ reconciling the world unto Himself." (II Corinthians 5:19)
In fact, Jesus asked His disciples, "Who do men say that I AM?" The responses varied. Then Jesus asked a more revealing question, "Who do you say I AM?" Peter quickly responded, "Thou art The Christ, the Son of the Living God." Because of this answer, Peter was promised that God would build His church and that He would give him the keys to the kingdom. (Matthew 16:13-19)
Translated, what we are witnessing here is Peter being given authority BY GOD TO OPEN THE DOOR OF SALVATION TO All. You see, Peter received the Keys when he received the Gift of the Holy Ghost in Acts 2:1-4. Then Peter, having THE KEYS TO THE KINGDOM used them for the first time (Acts 2:16-47) On The Day of Pentecost when he UNLOCKED AND OPENED WIDE THE DOOR OF SALVATION TO THE JEWS.
Peter, standing with the eleven in one accord, told the people that this same Jesus whom they had crucified is both Lord and Christ. (Acts 2:36) When they were pricked in their hearts, they asked Peter, "What must we do?" Peter told them to "repent, and be baptized in the Name of the Lord Jesus Christ and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost. (Acts 2:37-41)
Later on, in Acts 8 the Samaritans had also been water baptized in the Name of Lord Jesus because (as the scripture states) these had not received yet the Gift of the Holy Ghost (Acts 8:15) Peter and John were then sent to lay hands on those baptized and to pray for them that they might receive the Holy Ghost. Note that only those that were water baptized received the gift of the Holy Ghost! Consequently, the door of salvation was unlocked and opened wide for the Samaritans also.
Peter then was sent and preached the Gospel unto the Gentiles, and while he was preaching the Word of God, the Holy Ghost fell upon them and they began to speak with other tongues. Peter then asked, "Can any man forbid water that have received the Holy Ghost as well as we?" (Acts 10:44-448) Then he commanded that they be water baptized in the Name of the Lord. The door again unlocked and opened wide for the Gentiles as well.
So, where did this wonderful salvation message begin? In John 3:1-7, when Jesus stopped to speak to Nicodemus, a man of the Pharisees, and a ruler of the Jews.
"The same came to Jesus by night, and said unto Him, "Rabbi, we know that Thou art a teacher come from God: for no man can do these miracles that Thou doest, except God be with Him. Jesus answered and said unto him, "Verily, verily, I say unto thee, EXCEPT a man be "BORN AGAIN" he CANNOT SEE the kingdom of God."
Nicodemus then asks Jesus how someone can be born again (naturally by entering a mother's womb a second time). Jesus answered, "Verily, verily, I say unto thee, except a man be BORN OF WATER AND OF THE SPIRIT, he cannot enter into the kingdom of God. That which is born of the flesh is flesh; and that which is born of the Spirit is spirit. Marvel not that I said unto thee, "YE MUST BE BORN AGAIN."
Clearly, Jesus is not speaking about a natural birth here. Moreover, Jesus teaching had nothing to do with being born again of the flesh. Indeed, Jesus was specifically teaching Nicodemus that he had to be born again. A spiritual birth.
Interesting thus far? There is more to come shortly. For now, meditate on these things.
Stand in the offering plate.
Let Thy Lovingkindness And Thy Truth Continually Preserve Me - Part 2382
"I have preached righteousness in the great congregation; lo, I have not refrained my lips, O Lord, thou knowest. I have not hid Thy righteousness within my heart; I have declared Thy faithfulness and Thy salvation: I have not concealed Thy lovingkindness and Thy truth from the great congregation.Withhold not thou Thy tender mercies from me, O Lord: let Thy lovingkindness and Thy truth continually preserve me." (Psalm 40:9-11)
"I will praise the Lord according to His righteousness: and will sing praise to the Name of the Lord most high." (Psalm 7:17)
"I will declare Thy Name unto my brethren: in the midst of the congregation will I praise thee. Ye that fear the Lord, praise Him; all ye the seed of Jacob, glorify Him; and fear Him, all ye the seed of Israel. For He hath not despised nor abhorred the affliction of the afflicted;
neither hath He hid His face from him; but when he cried unto Him, He heard.
For the kingdom is the Lord’s: and He is the governor among the nations. All they that be fat upon earth shall eat and worship: all they that go down to the dust shall bow before Him: and none can keep alive his own soul. A seed shall serve Him; it shall be accounted to the Lord for a generation. They shall come, and shall declare His righteousness unto a people that shall be born, that He hath done [this.]" (Psalm 22:22-30)
neither hath He hid His face from him; but when he cried unto Him, He heard.
My praise shall be of Thee in the great congregation: I will pay my vows before them that fear Him.
The meek shall eat and be satisfied: they shall praise the Lord that seek Him: your heart shall live for ever. All the ends of the world shall remember and turn unto the Lord: and all the kindreds of the nations shall worship before Thee.
The meek shall eat and be satisfied: they shall praise the Lord that seek Him: your heart shall live for ever. All the ends of the world shall remember and turn unto the Lord: and all the kindreds of the nations shall worship before Thee.
For the kingdom is the Lord’s: and He is the governor among the nations. All they that be fat upon earth shall eat and worship: all they that go down to the dust shall bow before Him: and none can keep alive his own soul. A seed shall serve Him; it shall be accounted to the Lord for a generation. They shall come, and shall declare His righteousness unto a people that shall be born, that He hath done [this.]" (Psalm 22:22-30)
The psalmist David wrote the 23rd psalm -- The Lord is my Shepherd! Herein, are some other thoughts that David put to pen. Enjoy his many insights this day, knowing that the Lord does not conceal His lovingkindness or truth from His congregation.
Stand in the offering plate.
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