"Grace and peace be to you from our God and Father the Lord Jesus the Christ." (Galatians 1:3; Ephesians 1:2)
The grace of God which brings forth salvation has appeared. Yes, God was manifest in the flesh so that we might obtain life eternal. (I Timothy 3:16) God Himself as a Son came to redeem His household so that we -- the redeemed now being the temple in which His holy Spirit is pleased to dwell -- can be saved. He [His holy Spirit] in Christ purchased us with His own precious blood, which eternal life blood flowed in the veins of the son child JESUS who was conceived of the SEED life of God who is Holy Spirit.
"To wit, God was in Christ reconciling the world unto Himself!" (II Corinthians 5:19)
Indeed, JESUS' body was nourished and clothed upon in flesh in the womb of His surrogate mother Mary and fashioned in flesh appearing a little lower than the angels for the suffering of death. That He {JESUS} by the grace of God should taste death for every man. Therefore, without hesitance, let us come boldly to His throne of grace so that we may obtain mercy that will comfort and help us in times of need. His joy and peace dwelling within -- satisfying the yearning for Him within our souls, once and for all.
God prepared for Himself a body that would provide the ultimate sacrifice, and in so doing, this same God manifest in the flesh as a Son was obedient in all things to the will of His Father -- the Holy Ghost. From the foundation of the world, a plan of salvation was decided, that God (made as a Son) would lay aside the will of His flesh (to live) and consequently become obedient to the will of His Father which was, as we now realize to lay down His flesh as a sacrificial offering.
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)
Thus, all was not lost.
On making this decision for mankind everywhere, JESUS sweat as these were drops of blood (the pivotal decision to which He responded by saying, "Not My will [the will of the flesh to live] but Thy will be done." Amen! Abba Father! Herein we see the grace of the Lord JESUS the Christ manifesting the love of God towards us. God as a Son, by the willing sacrifice of His sinless body (yet prone to sin body but without sin) has redeemed us to commune and fellowship with His holy Spirit.
Therefore, it is because of God's willingness to become a man that we are assured that the Son of God has come and opened our understanding. So that we can know and recognize the truth as stated in the gospel scriptures. For in JESUS the Son of the Spirit of God did all truth dwell. JESUS who is the true God -- the tree of eternal life! It is unto Him that we are kept from falling in our daily walk with Jesus. It is He who will present us as faultless before the presence of His glory with exceeding joy. Yes, to the one and only wise God Our Saviour, be the glory and majesty, dominion and power, both now and forever. Amen.
To the believing church, please remember the words which were spoken before of the apostles of our Lord Jesus Christ. That is, stand fast therein. Peace in JESUS!
Stand in the offering plate.
All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness
Friday, November 22, 2019
While The Pretenders Circle, Jesus Sheep Are Not Surrounded By Gates- Part 2441
"Keep not Thou silence, O God: hold not Thy peace, and be not still, O God. For, lo, Thine enemies make a tumult: and they that hate Thee have lifted up the head. They have taken crafty counsel against Thy people, and consulted against Thy hidden ones. They have said, "Come, and let us cut them off from [being] a nation; that the name of Israel may be no more in remembrance. For they have consulted together with one consent: they are confederate against Thee ..." (Psalm 83:1-7)
In the current world in which we live, we are seeing an increasing hatred for the Lord Jesus and His everlasting purposes being displayed within the social fabric. Instead, the lovers of God who are thankful for the many blessings which the Lord has instilled in our nations are being replaced with a false and evil mantra -- "Let us take to ourselves the houses of God in possession."
Obviously, this hatred is not new to the world because Jesus clearly stated that the lovers of this world will hate us because these hated Him first. (Matthew 10:22; Matthew 24:9; Mark 13:13; Luke 21:17; John 15:18, 24; John 15:25; Jon 17:14)
And as we also know from the trial against Jesus, "his citizens hated him, and sent a message after him, saying, "We will not have this [man] to reign over us." (Luke 19:14)
In Psalm 83, David brings his initial prayer regarding those who hate the Lord to a rightful conclusion. David writes, "O my God, make them like a wheel; as the stubble before the wind. As the fire burns a wood, and as the flame sets the mountains on fire; so persecute them with Thy tempest, and make them afraid with Thy storm. Fill their faces with shame; that they may seek Thy Name, O Lord. Let them be confounded and troubled for ever; yea, let them be put to shame, and perish: that men may know that Thou, whose name alone is JHVH [the unpronounceable name of God] art the Most High over all the earth." (Psalm 83:12-14)
For clarity, the JHVH of the old is JESUS in the new. The only name whereby we must be saved. (Acts 4:12) The name above every name -- including the more than 100 names God used throughout the old testament. (Philippians 2:9)
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)
As a suffering servant, Jesus made the ultimate purchase for you and I. That is, He shed His precious, holy blood on a cross so that you and I might have abundant everlasting life in Him. He has called us into His purposes -- the Good Shepherd who willingly gave His life for His sheep.
But Jesus does not call us to pursue a lie outside of Him but rather to experience abundant life in Him. This is why Jesus is the Way, the Truth, and the Life. As apostle Paul states, we have a purpose, a calling that allows us to fight the good fight, running the race, and most of all, keeping the faith. When we experience Jesus, He fills the cup of life to overflowing -- His joy and peace running over from within.
Therefore, we who believe should "give diligence to make your calling and election sure: for if ye do these things, ye shall never fall: for so an entrance shall be ministered unto you abundantly into the everlasting kingdom of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. Wherefore I will not be negligent to put you always in remembrance of these things, though ye know them, and be established in the present truth." (II Peter 2:10-12)
Yes, in Jesus, we can partake in a more abundant life. Stand in the offering plate.
Obviously, this hatred is not new to the world because Jesus clearly stated that the lovers of this world will hate us because these hated Him first. (Matthew 10:22; Matthew 24:9; Mark 13:13; Luke 21:17; John 15:18, 24; John 15:25; Jon 17:14)
And as we also know from the trial against Jesus, "his citizens hated him, and sent a message after him, saying, "We will not have this [man] to reign over us." (Luke 19:14)
In Psalm 83, David brings his initial prayer regarding those who hate the Lord to a rightful conclusion. David writes, "O my God, make them like a wheel; as the stubble before the wind. As the fire burns a wood, and as the flame sets the mountains on fire; so persecute them with Thy tempest, and make them afraid with Thy storm. Fill their faces with shame; that they may seek Thy Name, O Lord. Let them be confounded and troubled for ever; yea, let them be put to shame, and perish: that men may know that Thou, whose name alone is JHVH [the unpronounceable name of God] art the Most High over all the earth." (Psalm 83:12-14)
For clarity, the JHVH of the old is JESUS in the new. The only name whereby we must be saved. (Acts 4:12) The name above every name -- including the more than 100 names God used throughout the old testament. (Philippians 2:9)
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)
As a suffering servant, Jesus made the ultimate purchase for you and I. That is, He shed His precious, holy blood on a cross so that you and I might have abundant everlasting life in Him. He has called us into His purposes -- the Good Shepherd who willingly gave His life for His sheep.
But Jesus does not call us to pursue a lie outside of Him but rather to experience abundant life in Him. This is why Jesus is the Way, the Truth, and the Life. As apostle Paul states, we have a purpose, a calling that allows us to fight the good fight, running the race, and most of all, keeping the faith. When we experience Jesus, He fills the cup of life to overflowing -- His joy and peace running over from within.
Therefore, we who believe should "give diligence to make your calling and election sure: for if ye do these things, ye shall never fall: for so an entrance shall be ministered unto you abundantly into the everlasting kingdom of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. Wherefore I will not be negligent to put you always in remembrance of these things, though ye know them, and be established in the present truth." (II Peter 2:10-12)
Yes, in Jesus, we can partake in a more abundant life. Stand in the offering plate.
The Lord Jesus Has Set Us Free To Pursue His Desires - Part 2440
"And let the peace of God rule in your hearts, to the which also ye are called in one body; and be ye thankful."(Colossians 3:15)
As believers in the risen Jesus, the Lord of lords and King of kings, and water baptized in His precious, holy Name according to Acts 2:36-41, we have been set free from the entanglements and bondage of this world to pursue His desires. Why? Because, as Jesus shares, we who believe He is, can have more abundant life in Him. We can find the pasture (His living water) wherein we will never thirst again. His unspeakable joy and peace dwelling within our hearts that sets us apart from the world -- in a good way!
As believers in the risen Jesus, the Lord of lords and King of kings, and water baptized in His precious, holy Name according to Acts 2:36-41, we have been set free from the entanglements and bondage of this world to pursue His desires. Why? Because, as Jesus shares, we who believe He is, can have more abundant life in Him. We can find the pasture (His living water) wherein we will never thirst again. His unspeakable joy and peace dwelling within our hearts that sets us apart from the world -- in a good way!
Indeed, there is a reason Jesus said, "I AM the Bread of Life!" for He is.
From John 10, we see Jesus speaking specifically to the Pharisees, who want Him dead. Herein, Jesus states, "All that ever came before Me are thieves and robbers: but the sheep did not hear them. I AM the door: by Me if any man enter in, he shall be saved, and shall go in and out, and find pasture. The thief comes not, but for to steal, and to kill, and to destroy: I AM come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly.
From John 10, we see Jesus speaking specifically to the Pharisees, who want Him dead. Herein, Jesus states, "All that ever came before Me are thieves and robbers: but the sheep did not hear them. I AM the door: by Me if any man enter in, he shall be saved, and shall go in and out, and find pasture. The thief comes not, but for to steal, and to kill, and to destroy: I AM come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly.
I AM the Good Shepherd: the Good Shepherd giveth His life for the sheep. But he that is an hireling, and not the Shepherd, whose own the sheep are not, sees the wolf coming, and leaves the sheep, and flees: and the wolf catches them, and scatters the sheep." (John 10:8-12)
You see, the world is not conducive to the life which Jesus offers. Moreover, the world is not capable of satisfying the yearning for His love within our very being. Only the Lord Jesus, who not only created this world but gave His life for the sheep can satisfy our longing for Him.
It is for this reason that Jesus said, "I AM the Door!" For He is the Way, the Truth and the Life. And when we have seen Jesus, we have seen the Father and now know Him. (John 14:6-12; John 10:30; I Timothy 3:`6)
The simplicity of the gospel of Jesus Christ. Ask Him to become Lord of your life this day.
Stand in the offering plate.
Sunday, November 17, 2019
Even As Thy Soul Prospers, And Knows the Grace of God In Truth - Part 2439
"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. If there come any unto you and bring not this doctrine, receive him not into [your] house, neither bid him God speed, for he that bid him God speed is partaker of his evil deeds." (II John 1:9-11)
"That which was from the beginning, which we have heard, which we have seen with our eyes, and our hands have handled, of the Word of life; (for the life was manifested and we have seen [it], and bear witness, and show unto you that eternal life, which was with the Father, and was manifested unto us;) that which we have seen and heard declare we unto you that ye also may have fellowship with us; and truly our fellowship [is] with the Father and with His Son Jesus Christ, and these things write we unto you, that your joy may be full." (I John 1:1-4)
That your joy may be full.
So what is the "doctrine of Christ" that we could have both the Father and the Son? Let's begin by explaining what the doctrine of Christ is not. Certainly, the doctrine of Christ is not a co-existent, co-equal part of a trinity, triad or tri-une g/God as presented by the modern day, man-made religious culture. And the doctrine of Christ is not God in three persons, or three in one or one in three. Further, the doctrine of Christ is not a false trinitarian doctrine that defines God as three consubstantial persons, expressions or hypostases. Neither can anyone say that the three persons in the Godhead equal one, because regardless of the type of math studied, three does not equal one.
As Jesus clearly said, "I and My Father are One!" (John 10:30) And to His disciples, "he that hath seen Me hath seen the Father and know Him." (John 14:6-12) Indeed, He who was in the world, the same He who created the world in the beginning, was the same He that the world knew not. (John 1:10-11)
It is important to note also that the word trinity does not exist in the scriptures. Not once. Never. Because right from the very beginning, God is repeatedly described as ONE God. Simply put, "In the beginning, God." (Genesis 1:1) We also understand that God is ONE from the first commandment, outlined in both the old covenant and the new testament. "Hear O Israel, the Lord thy God is One Lord!" (Mark 12:29-31; Deuteronomy 4:6) And within the scriptures, we are repeatedly informed that this same God came forth as a mighty man. (Isaiah 42:13; Isaiah 9:6)
God manifest in the flesh. (I Timothy 3:16)
For clarity, Jesus engages in a conversation with a scribe, who had perceived that He had answered them well. So the scribe asks Jesus, "Which is the first commandment of all?" And Jesus answered him, "The first of all the commandments is, "Hear, O Israel; The Lord our God is ONE Lord, and thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind, and with all thy strength." This is the first commandment. And the second is like, namely this, "Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself." There is none other commandment greater than these."
And the scribe said unto [Jesus], "Well, Master, Thou hast said the truth: for there is one God; and there is none other but He, and to love Him with all the heart, and with all the understanding, and with all the soul, and with all the strength, and to love his neighbour as himself, is more than all whole burnt offerings and sacrifices." And when Jesus saw that he answered discreetly, He said unto him, "Thou art not far from the kingdom of God." (Mark 12:28-34)
"That which was from the beginning, which we have heard, which we have seen with our eyes, and our hands have handled, of the Word of life; (for the life was manifested and we have seen [it], and bear witness, and show unto you that eternal life, which was with the Father, and was manifested unto us;) that which we have seen and heard declare we unto you that ye also may have fellowship with us; and truly our fellowship [is] with the Father and with His Son Jesus Christ, and these things write we unto you, that your joy may be full." (I John 1:1-4)
That your joy may be full.
So what is the "doctrine of Christ" that we could have both the Father and the Son? Let's begin by explaining what the doctrine of Christ is not. Certainly, the doctrine of Christ is not a co-existent, co-equal part of a trinity, triad or tri-une g/God as presented by the modern day, man-made religious culture. And the doctrine of Christ is not God in three persons, or three in one or one in three. Further, the doctrine of Christ is not a false trinitarian doctrine that defines God as three consubstantial persons, expressions or hypostases. Neither can anyone say that the three persons in the Godhead equal one, because regardless of the type of math studied, three does not equal one.
As Jesus clearly said, "I and My Father are One!" (John 10:30) And to His disciples, "he that hath seen Me hath seen the Father and know Him." (John 14:6-12) Indeed, He who was in the world, the same He who created the world in the beginning, was the same He that the world knew not. (John 1:10-11)
It is important to note also that the word trinity does not exist in the scriptures. Not once. Never. Because right from the very beginning, God is repeatedly described as ONE God. Simply put, "In the beginning, God." (Genesis 1:1) We also understand that God is ONE from the first commandment, outlined in both the old covenant and the new testament. "Hear O Israel, the Lord thy God is One Lord!" (Mark 12:29-31; Deuteronomy 4:6) And within the scriptures, we are repeatedly informed that this same God came forth as a mighty man. (Isaiah 42:13; Isaiah 9:6)
God manifest in the flesh. (I Timothy 3:16)
For clarity, Jesus engages in a conversation with a scribe, who had perceived that He had answered them well. So the scribe asks Jesus, "Which is the first commandment of all?" And Jesus answered him, "The first of all the commandments is, "Hear, O Israel; The Lord our God is ONE Lord, and thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind, and with all thy strength." This is the first commandment. And the second is like, namely this, "Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself." There is none other commandment greater than these."
And the scribe said unto [Jesus], "Well, Master, Thou hast said the truth: for there is one God; and there is none other but He, and to love Him with all the heart, and with all the understanding, and with all the soul, and with all the strength, and to love his neighbour as himself, is more than all whole burnt offerings and sacrifices." And when Jesus saw that he answered discreetly, He said unto him, "Thou art not far from the kingdom of God." (Mark 12:28-34)
So if the scribe perceives Jesus to be both Lord and Christ, as did Peter and the eleven disciples/apostles on the day of Pentecost, then we too need to understand the doctrine of Christ.
"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)
"... because we trust in the living God -- who is the Saviour of all men, specially of those that believe." (I Timothy 4:10)
"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)
"... because we trust in the living God -- who is the Saviour of all men, specially of those that believe." (I Timothy 4:10)
"After the kindness of God our Saviour toward man appeared ...." (Titus 3:4-5)
Yes, God Himself foreordained that we His creation would require a purchase be made for our sins. Thus, God made a plan whereby we can be saved/redeemed/sanctified through the love He extended to His people on the cross. Thus, God's love for His people is the greatest love story ever told -- that He would also become our Saviour.
He paid the ultimate price on a cross for you and I --- the greatest love story ever told!
Yes, God Himself foreordained that we His creation would require a purchase be made for our sins. Thus, God made a plan whereby we can be saved/redeemed/sanctified through the love He extended to His people on the cross. Thus, God's love for His people is the greatest love story ever told -- that He would also become our Saviour.
He paid the ultimate price on a cross for you and I --- the greatest love story ever told!
"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." (Hebrews 9:14-18)
For purposes of clarity, the principles of the doctrine of Christ are detailed in Hebrews 6:1-2 -- "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."
God our Saviour toward man appearing. The renewing of the Holy Ghost which He shed on us abundantly through Jesus Christ our Saviour, that being justified [declared righteous] by His grace, we should be made heirs according to the hope of eternal life. (Titus 3:4-7)
"For the grace of God that brings salvation hath appeared to all men .... looking for that blessed hope, and the glorious appearing of the great God and our Saviour Jesus Christ who gave Himself for us, that He might redeem us from all iniquity and purify unto Himself a peculiar people, zealous of good works." (Titus 12:11-14)
"For the grace of God that brings salvation hath appeared to all men .... looking for that blessed hope, and the glorious appearing of the great God and our Saviour Jesus Christ who gave Himself for us, that He might redeem us from all iniquity and purify unto Himself a peculiar people, zealous of good works." (Titus 12:11-14)
Much more to come but this should provide some insight and understanding into the doctrine of Christ,
Stand in he offering plate.
Stand in he offering plate.
Thursday, November 14, 2019
And The Lord Shall Deliver From Every Evil Work; To Whom Be Glory Forever And Ever, Amen - Part 2438
"I charge thee therefore before God and the Lord Jesus Christ, who shall judge the quick and the dead at His appearing and His kingdom; preach the Word; be instant in season, out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort with all long suffering and doctrine. For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but after their own lusts shall they heap to themselves teachers, having itching ears; and they shall turn away [their] ears from the truth, and shall be turned unto fables. But watch thou in all things, endure afflictions, do the work of an evangelist, make full proof of thy ministry.
For I am now ready to be offered, and the time of my departure is at hand. I have fought a good fight, I have finished [my] course, I have kept the faith: henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, shall give me at that day: and not to me only, but unto all them also that love His appearing." (II Timothy 4:1-8)
For I am now ready to be offered, and the time of my departure is at hand. I have fought a good fight, I have finished [my] course, I have kept the faith: henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, shall give me at that day: and not to me only, but unto all them also that love His appearing." (II Timothy 4:1-8)
Apostle Paul continually encouraged us in the scriptures which was given to holy men of God -- for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, and for instruction in righteousness -- so that we who believe are profitable in wisdom and knowledge, living godly in Christ Jesus -- complete in Him. (II Timothy 3:17)
Can we offer the same? Have we fought a good fight, and finished the course that the Lord God our Saviour has set us on -- when He placed His purpose in our heart whilst we were still in our mother's womb? Have we kept the faith, even when times of persecution come?
As Paul later states, "At my first answer no man stood with me, but all men forsook me: I pray God that it may not be laid to their charge. Notwithstanding the Lord stood with me, and strengthened me; that by me the preaching might be fully known, and that all the Gentiles might hear: and I was delivered out of the mouth of the lion. And the Lord shall deliver me from every evil work, and will preserve me unto His heavenly kingdom: to whom be glory for ever and ever. Amen." (II Timothy 4:16-18)
Stand in the offering plate.
Tuesday, November 12, 2019
Abiding In The Promises Of God Our Saviour Jesus Both Lord And Christ - Part 2437
Jesus saith, "And ye shall be hated of all men for My name’s sake: but he that endures to the end shall be saved." (Matthew 10:22)
"And in His name shall the Gentiles trust."
"And whoso shall receive one such little child in My name receives Me."
"For where two or three are gathered together in My name, there am I in the midst of them."
"And every one that hath forsaken houses, or brethren, or sisters, or father, or mother, or wife, or children, or lands, for My name’s sake, shall receive an hundredfold, and shall inherit everlasting life.
The topic this day is the Lord our God and Saviour's name. We hear this phrase -- in the name of God - so often but rarely do we pursue the question further, as in "do you know?" What is God’s name? For God is surely a descriptive title, never being a name. And similarly in this context, if one is utilizing a descriptive title, then why not expose to others whom it is that you are calling God?
"In God we trust" is another phrase used in various contexts. But again, please explain to the general populace who it is that you are putting your trust in? Or "God bless you!" In all of these examples, we need to ask ourselves who it is -- this God -- that we are talking about. Who it is that we are asking to bless you, for example.
Moreover, who is this God, whose name we do not know? Well, let me tell you. Certainly, I cannot trust in a God whom I know nothing about and I am equally sure that you feel the same way. So let's examine the scriptures and determine once and for all who God is.
We've all heard that God is Love. We also recognize that God is not a respecter of persons -- because as the scriptures declare, the rain falls on both the good and the evil, and the sunshine alike. Similarly, God does not have two laws, one for the rich and another for the poor! And God does not tell me using force how much He loves me.
But I do know from reading the scriptures, and pressing into God my Saviour how much God loves me.
Similarly, we find in reading the scriptures that God Has a name. In fact, it is as a result of knowing that name and calling upon that name that one can be blessed. Indeed, apart from knowing God’s revealed name, confusion rules and reigns. We've seen this time and time again throughout history. Nations upon hearing God’s name go from being a 'have-not' nation to a 'have' nation. Conversely, nations that at one time were aware of God’s name but have since turned their backs to God often begin a downward spiral.
Still, what is in a name? What do names represent? You as a individual would never let anyone misrepresent or discredit your name. Why? Because your name is you! It dictates who you are. And in fact, your name will outlive you. Your offspring bear your name.
Likewise, when you know God’s name and have grown to know the One God who bears that name, then you would not by any means desire to discredit or misrepresent His name. In this sense, neither Jehovah (unpronounceable name JHVH) or Yahweh are God’s name! God never revealed either as being His name.
But there is a name, as the scriptures repeatedly point out, which is above every other name in both Heaven and on earth. And the One who bears that name is the One God, who is before all things. He is also the One God who made all things! This One God who is Spirit has revealed HIMSELF as a Son. He did not reveal Himself as another person!
"He was in the world and the world was made by Him but the world knew Him not. He came unto His own and His own received Him not ..." (John 1:10-11)
God who is Spirit, inhabited a man’s body, endeavouring to reveal Himself to His beloved people, including you and I. And indeed, this God who is love bears the name of JESUS! Why even the angels worship Him. Wise men worship Him too. The shepherds abiding with their flock in the field were willing (just like the fishermen) to drop all that they were doing to pursue Jesus.
This same Jesus who is both Lord and Christ. The now risen Jesus who is King of kings and Lord of lords, Alpha and Omega, the first and the last, the beginning and the ending. And He never fails those who love Him with all their heart, soul, mind and strength.
Therefore, why don't you put your trust in Him today too so you can be blessed in His love and peace and joy and mercy that is forever and ever.
Stand firm in the offering plate.
"And whoso shall receive one such little child in My name receives Me."
"For where two or three are gathered together in My name, there am I in the midst of them."
"And every one that hath forsaken houses, or brethren, or sisters, or father, or mother, or wife, or children, or lands, for My name’s sake, shall receive an hundredfold, and shall inherit everlasting life.
The topic this day is the Lord our God and Saviour's name. We hear this phrase -- in the name of God - so often but rarely do we pursue the question further, as in "do you know?" What is God’s name? For God is surely a descriptive title, never being a name. And similarly in this context, if one is utilizing a descriptive title, then why not expose to others whom it is that you are calling God?
"In God we trust" is another phrase used in various contexts. But again, please explain to the general populace who it is that you are putting your trust in? Or "God bless you!" In all of these examples, we need to ask ourselves who it is -- this God -- that we are talking about. Who it is that we are asking to bless you, for example.
Moreover, who is this God, whose name we do not know? Well, let me tell you. Certainly, I cannot trust in a God whom I know nothing about and I am equally sure that you feel the same way. So let's examine the scriptures and determine once and for all who God is.
We've all heard that God is Love. We also recognize that God is not a respecter of persons -- because as the scriptures declare, the rain falls on both the good and the evil, and the sunshine alike. Similarly, God does not have two laws, one for the rich and another for the poor! And God does not tell me using force how much He loves me.
But I do know from reading the scriptures, and pressing into God my Saviour how much God loves me.
Similarly, we find in reading the scriptures that God Has a name. In fact, it is as a result of knowing that name and calling upon that name that one can be blessed. Indeed, apart from knowing God’s revealed name, confusion rules and reigns. We've seen this time and time again throughout history. Nations upon hearing God’s name go from being a 'have-not' nation to a 'have' nation. Conversely, nations that at one time were aware of God’s name but have since turned their backs to God often begin a downward spiral.
Still, what is in a name? What do names represent? You as a individual would never let anyone misrepresent or discredit your name. Why? Because your name is you! It dictates who you are. And in fact, your name will outlive you. Your offspring bear your name.
Likewise, when you know God’s name and have grown to know the One God who bears that name, then you would not by any means desire to discredit or misrepresent His name. In this sense, neither Jehovah (unpronounceable name JHVH) or Yahweh are God’s name! God never revealed either as being His name.
But there is a name, as the scriptures repeatedly point out, which is above every other name in both Heaven and on earth. And the One who bears that name is the One God, who is before all things. He is also the One God who made all things! This One God who is Spirit has revealed HIMSELF as a Son. He did not reveal Himself as another person!
"He was in the world and the world was made by Him but the world knew Him not. He came unto His own and His own received Him not ..." (John 1:10-11)
God who is Spirit, inhabited a man’s body, endeavouring to reveal Himself to His beloved people, including you and I. And indeed, this God who is love bears the name of JESUS! Why even the angels worship Him. Wise men worship Him too. The shepherds abiding with their flock in the field were willing (just like the fishermen) to drop all that they were doing to pursue Jesus.
This same Jesus who is both Lord and Christ. The now risen Jesus who is King of kings and Lord of lords, Alpha and Omega, the first and the last, the beginning and the ending. And He never fails those who love Him with all their heart, soul, mind and strength.
Therefore, why don't you put your trust in Him today too so you can be blessed in His love and peace and joy and mercy that is forever and ever.
Stand firm in the offering plate.
We Are Redeemed By The Precious Blood Of Christ, As Of A Lamb Without Blemish - Part 2436
"And now, O Father, glorify Thou Me with Thine own self with the glory which I had with Thee before the world was ..." (John 17:5)
The above scripture is spoken by Jesus who is about to be betrayed by one of His disciples. The garden where this happened was known by the disciples "for Jesus oft times resorted thither with His disciples." (John 18:2)
As Jesus speaks these words in John 17:5, note that He lifts up His eyes to heaven, saying, "Father, the hour is come, glorify Thy Son, that Thy Son also may glorify Thee." At this point, Jesus confirms that Thou hast given Him power over all flesh and continues declaring, "that He should give eternal life to as many as Thou hast given Him. And this is life eternal, that they might know Thee the only true God and Jesus Christ which Thou hast sent. I have glorified Thee on the earth: I have finished the work which Thou gave Me to do. And now O Father glorify Thou Me with Thine own self with the glory which I had with Thee before the world was." (John 17:1-5)
Sadly, many stumble at these scriptures -- not understanding the extent of Jesus words herein, and how much He loved each and every one of us to have endured the shame of the cross -- so that we might know perfect love in Him.
Specifically, this passage is a perfect example of God calling "those things which be not as though they were." In the scriptures, we see this occur a lot, wherein God makes a statement that appears to have happened but in reality, the statement is a prophecy referring to something that will occur in the future.
An example of this is found in Hebrews 4: "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." (Hebrews 4:2-4)
Another example that appears to have occurred in the past but had not yet happened can be found in Revelation 13 -- the "Lamb slain from the foundation of the world." For those who may not be aware, God had established a plan of redemption (salvation) before the foundation of the world was formed. He knew that in order for Him to gain a family for Himself, He would have to prepare for Himself a body - that would endure the cross, so that we who believe in Him should not perish but have everlasting life. (John 3:16)
Thus, many times in the scriptures (particularly in the Old Testament) we see prophetic statements made regarding the fulfillment of God's redemptive plan. Indeed, He knew all along that humanity would sin and need a sacrificial Lamb that would pay the ultimate price for our sins. For this cause ... (Hebrews 9:8, 14-18)
Romans 4 further establishes the breadth and depth and this underlying premise of prophecy yet to be fulfilled in the scriptures, and similarly, how (in this current dispensation of grace) our salvation is of faith, that it might be by grace; to the end the promise might be sure to all the seed, not to that only which is of the law, but to that also which is of the faith of Abraham -- "(As it is written, I have made thee a Father of many nations) before Him whom he believed, [even] God, who quickens the dead and calls those things which be not as though they were, who against hope believed in hope, that He might become the father of many nations; according to that which was spoken, So shall thy seed be." (Romans 4:17-18; Romans 9:8; Romans 15:8; Galatians 3; John 5:21; I Corinthians 1:28; )
This same God who knows everything is able to see things in the future and make events seem as if they have already occurred. In this John 17 example, the Lamb (that in His mind) was "slain from the foundation of the world" did not occur until the Lamb was actually slain at Calvary for you and I. As John the baptizer declared in seeing Jesus approach, "Behold, the Lamb of God."
Likewise, when we read John 17:5, we see Christ praying to (or perhaps more aptly stated -- in) the Spirit (Father) in the Garden. It is important to note here that Jesus has not yet been glorified. (Acts 1:2-3) As well, we need to understand that the crucifixion, resurrection, ascension, and His glorification were still yet to take place in the future.
But because God knew from the very beginning that His salvation plan (these redemptive events) would take place, He could declare the salvation plan as if they had already taken place. Hence, Christ praying, "...with the glory which I had with Thee before the world was"-- the Lamb and His glorification were in the mind of God from the very beginning.
"For thus saith the Lord that created the heavens; God Himself that formed the earth and made it; He hath established it; He created it not in vain, He formed it to be inhabited; I AM the Lord; and there is none else. I have not spoken in secret; in a dark place of the earth; I said not unto the seed of Jacob, "Seek ye Me in vain; I the Lord speak righteousness, I declare things that are right." (Isaiah 45:18-19)
Thus, the purpose of the Son was for the redemption of all mankind -- His glory from the crucifixion (as prophesied) soon to follow. Remember, Jesus is God manifest in the flesh. ((I Timothy 3:16) To wit, God was in Christ reconciling the world unto Himself. (II Corinthians 5:19) He was in the world and the world was made by Him and the world knew Him not. He came unto His own and His own received Him not. (John 1:10-11)
As the Lord God prophesied through Isaiah, God Himself will not share His glory with any other.
"I AM the LORD: that is My name: and My glory will I not give to another, neither My praise to graven images." (Isaiah 42:8)
Therefore, as Jesus prayed in the garden, He knew that He was the Lamb which was soon to be slain. But He also knew that His glorification would soon follow wherein He -- the "risen" Jesus -- through the Holy Ghost would then give commandments unto the apostles whom He had chosen. (Acts 1:2-3) The Comforter -- who would never leave us nor forsake us. Indeed, He understood that the plan for redemption that had always been in the mind of God -- from the very foundation of the world was now unfolding.
Behold, the Lamb of God which taketh away the sins of the world.
On this side of the cross, we are also privileged to understand that this same Jesus -- both Lord and Christ (according to Peter standing with the eleven on the day of Pentecost) did receive His glory after His resurrection. As Peter said, "This same Jesus whom ye have crucified is both Lord and Christ!" (Acts 2:36)
Stand in the offering plate.
Monday, November 4, 2019
Alleluia; Salvation And Glory, And Honour, And Power Unto The Lord Our God:- Part 2435
"And after these things I heard a great voice of much people in heaven, saying, "Alleluia; salvation, and glory, and honour, and power, unto the Lord our God: for true and righteous [are] His judgments: for He hath judged the great whore, which did corrupt the earth with her fornication, and hath avenged the blood of His servants at her hand." And again they said, "Alleluia."
And her smoke rose up for ever and ever. And the four and twenty elders and the four beasts fell down and worshipped God that sat on the throne, saying, "Amen; Alleluia."
And a voice came out of the throne, saying, "Praise our God, all ye His servants, and ye that fear Him, both small and great." And I heard as it were the voice of a great multitude, and as the voice of many waters, and as the voice of mighty thunderings, saying, "Alleluia: for the Lord God omnipotent reigns. Let us be glad and rejoice, and give honour to Him: for the marriage of the Lamb is come, and His wife hath made herself ready." And to her was granted that she should be arrayed in fine linen, clean and white: for the fine linen is the righteousness of saints." (Revelation 19:1-8)
Herein, John is recording the vision of the Lord that he is seeing on Patmos Island. At this point, John is continuing to reveal to those who study the book of Revelation -- who Jesus is. We also know from the text that John is writing about the end times (last days). As well, the great whore who has corrupted the earth with her fornication (worshipping of other gods) and avenged the blood of His servants at her hand is being judged. This same whore that has deceived millions by false man-made religious dogma that has no foundation within the Word of God.
Some examples? The whore church does not believe that we are all required to repent and be water baptized in the precious, holy Name of the Lord Jesus -- so that we can receive the gift of the Holy Ghost. (Acts 2:36-41) These worship other gods including a triad/triune/three-headed god -- including the elevation of Mary (the mother of Jesus) to queen of heaven status -- even when Mary herself rejoiced in God her Saviour. (Luke 1:47) These present purgatory as an after life option -- even though the Lord Jesus is very clear on this point, particularly here in Revelation 19. Within the man-made institution, men have set themselves up as mediators between God and men. (Thankfully, the scriptures are clear on this latter point -- there is only ONE mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus! (I Timothy 2:5)
Thus, the vision of John -- offering many examples as to why we should not fall for the modern day religious culture and its long-standing error. Instead, John is encouraging us to get into the Word of God and understand His truths. Re-reading the scriptures above, note that when the great multitude gives honour, it is not to "them" -- a man-made religious triad or triune three-headed god but rather to Him -- singular, one Lord God who willingly became God our Saviour. (Titus 3:4-7; I Timothy 3:16) "To wit, God was in Christ reconciling the world unto Himself." (II Corinthians 5:19) But I digress somewhat.
Moving forward in Revelation 19:
And He saith unto me, "Write, Blessed [are] they which are called unto the marriage supper of the Lamb." And He saith unto me, "These are the true sayings of God." And I fell at His feet to worship Him. And He said unto me, "See [thou] do it not: I am thy fellow servant, and of thy brethren that have the testimony of Jesus: worship God: for the testimony of Jesus is the Spirit of prophecy." (Revelation 19:
And I saw heaven opened, and behold a white horse; and He that sat upon him was called Faithful and True, and in righteousness He doth judge and make war. His eyes were as a flame of fire, and on His head [were] many crowns; and He had a name written, that no man knew, but He Himself.
And He was clothed with a vesture dipped in blood: and His name is called "The Word of God." And the armies [which were] in heaven followed Him upon white horses, clothed in fine linen, white and clean. And out of His mouth goes a sharp sword, that with it He should smite the nations: and He shall rule them with a rod of iron: and He treads the winepress of the fierceness and wrath of Almighty God.
And He hath on [His] vesture and on His thigh a name written, "KING OF KINGS, AND LORD OF LORDS."
And I saw an angel standing in the sun; and he cried with a loud voice, saying to all the fowls that fly in the midst of heaven, "Come and gather yourselves together unto the supper of the great God; that ye may eat the flesh of kings, and the flesh of captains, and the flesh of mighty men, and the flesh of horses, and of them that sit on them, and the flesh of all [men, both] free and bond, both small and great.
And I saw the beast, and the kings of the earth, and their armies, gathered together to make war against Him that sat on the horse, and against his army. And the beast was taken, and with Him the false prophet that wrought miracles before Him, with which he deceived them that had received the mark of the beast, and them that worshipped his image. These both were cast alive into a lake of fire burning with brimstone. And the remnant were slain with the sword of Him that sat upon the horse, which sword proceeded out of His mouth: and all the fowls were filled with their flesh." (Revelation 19:9-21)
Indeed, Jesus is the King of kings and Lord of lords, forever faithful to those who love Him with all their heart, soul, mind, and strength. Praise Him forevermore.
Stand in the offering plate.
Nothing Can Separate Us From The Love Of God Which Is In Christ Jesus Our Lord - Part 2433
"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? As it is written, "For thy sake we are killed all the day long; we are accounted as sheep for the slaughter. Nay, in all these things we are more than conquerors through Him that loved us. For I am persuaded, that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor powers, nor things present, nor things to come, nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature, shall be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord." (Romans 8:33-39)
Regardless of the situation you might find yourself in this day, know that the Lord our God has a plan and purpose for your life which supersedes anything this world can offer ... and when He has clothed us in His righteousness, we cannot be separated from the love of God which is in Christ Jesus our Lord.
Stand in the offering plate.
Friday, November 1, 2019
The Lord God Is My Strength; Our Comforter; Our Hope And Joy And Peace - Part 2432
"And the Lord appeared unto [Abraham] in the plains of Mamre: and he sat in the tent door in the heat of the day; and he lift up his eyes and looked, and, lo, three men stood by Him: and when he saw [them], he ran to meet them from the tent door, and bowed himself toward the ground, and said, "My Lord, if now I have found favour in Thy sight, pass not away, I pray Thee, from Thy servant: let a little water, I pray You, be fetched, and wash Your feet, and rest Y/yourselves under the tree: and I will fetch a morsel of bread, and comfort ye your hearts; after that ye shall pass on: for therefore are Ye come to Your servant." And they said, "So do, as thou hast said." (Genesis 18:1-5)
"The land of Zabulon, and the land of Nephthalim, by the way of the sea, beyond Jordan, Galilee of the Gentiles; the people which sat in darkness saw great light; and to them which sat in the region and shadow of death light is sprung up. From that time Jesus began to preach, and to say, "Repent: for the kingdom of heaven is at hand." (Matthew 4:15-17)
Also important to note is that when Jesus ascended, He sat down, according to the scriptures. Why did Jesus sit down? The reason is simple. He sat down indicating that the work of man’s redemption was now complete. As Jesus said on the cross, after taking unto Himself the sins of the world, He said, “It is finished.” This one statement, with so much meaning, underscored that the issued commission to His chosen apostles was complete.
From that point forward, the apostles were to be His witnesses unto the uttermost parts of the earth. (Acts 1:2-3) So it remains, even today. The Bible retains the Word of God as stated, continuing to bring the message of salvation to all ages. Most importantly, the written WORD remains to be the sole authority on any misunderstandings of the scriptures that might emerge.
This same principle applies today. The apostles exhorted the people to repent and be baptized into the name of Jesus for the remission of their sin, and as a consequence, 3,000 persons responded to the gospel message. The very same number of people were baptized the same day, proving that the Lord added to His body of Christ church daily. (Acts 2:36-41)
But while this all happened in Jerusalem in 300- 400 AD, the so called church fathers decided to rearrange the Word written and confirmed by God. Instead of baptism in the precious, holy Name of Jesus -- the Name proclaimed by the angel of the Lord, the only name whereby we must be saved, the name above every other name -- the so-called church fathers rearranged and replaced the water baptism message of the early church with a rewritten Matthew 28;19. (Acts 4:12; Philippians 2:9; Matthew 1:21-23; Luke 1:35)
Indeed, the interpretation, or should we say, misinterpretation emanated from Rome according to the cardinal Joseph Ratzinger (who was the self-declared pope). Thankfully, the Word of God to His people does not emanate from man-made religious systems, or a culture that refuses to be righteous and upright in Him. (Habakkuk 2:4)
"It shall come to pass in the last days, that the mountain of the Lord’s house shall be established in the top of the mountains, and shall be exalted above the hills. All nations shall flow unto it. And many people shall go and say come and let us go up to the mountain of the Lord, to the house of the God of Jacob. That He will teach us of His ways, and we will walk in His paths for out of Zion shall go forth the law, and the WORD OF THE LORD FROM JERUSALEM." (Isaiah 2:2-3)
Similarly, Micah chapter 4:1-2 states that in the last days it shall come to pass that the mountain of the house of the Lord shall be established in the top of the mountains. It also shall be exalted above the hills and shall flow unto it. Many nations shall come, and say to the people, come and let us go up to the mountain of the Lord. To the house of the God of Jacob and He will teach us of His ways. We will walk in His paths for the law shall go forth of Zion. AND THE WORD OF THE LORD FROM JERUSALEM.
In the upper room, the followers of Jesus tarried until the power from on high had come -- as the risen Jesus said, "But ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you ..." (Acts 1:7-8; Mark 16:15)
Thus, what hinders you from being water baptized into the authorized name of Jesus - in the same way that was preached initially at Jerusalem? Let God be true, saith the scriptures. He is the sole commander in chief of our salvation. The same Lord who pitched the tent. Whatever He tells you to do, we are to do. In so doing, the baptismal watery grave into Jesus' death will become within you a well of living water. It is your call. Save yourselves from this untoward generation.
May the blessings of our Great God and our only Saviour the Lord Jesus rest upon you always.
Stand in the offering plate.
"The land of Zabulon, and the land of Nephthalim, by the way of the sea, beyond Jordan, Galilee of the Gentiles; the people which sat in darkness saw great light; and to them which sat in the region and shadow of death light is sprung up. From that time Jesus began to preach, and to say, "Repent: for the kingdom of heaven is at hand." (Matthew 4:15-17)
Note the latter scripture is a prophecy speaking forward to the new testament side. Also note that Jesus preached the one and same message of John the baptizer. That is, "Repent; for the kingdom of Heaven is at hand." (Matthew 3:2; Mark 1:14-15) Those who were watching for the Messiah, the Christ, the Dayspring from on high that would visit His people -- saw in Jesus that He was the Light to lighten the Gentiles and the glory of Thy people Israel." (Luke 2:26-32) The Lord's Christ (Isaiah 52:10; Isaiah 9:6; Luke 2:26)
Indeed, Jesus told the Jews that their father Abraham rejoiced to see My day; and he saw it and was glad. (John 8:56; Matthew 13:17) As stated in Hebrews, these giants of faith having died in the faith having not received the promises still -- were persuaded of them, embraced them, and confessed that they were strangers and pilgrims on the earth." (Hebrews 11:13) In other words, they did not seek a worldly country but a better country, that is, a heavenly wherefore God is not ashamed to be called their God -- for He hath prepared for them a city. (Hebrews 11:13-16)
Also important to note is that when Jesus ascended, He sat down, according to the scriptures. Why did Jesus sit down? The reason is simple. He sat down indicating that the work of man’s redemption was now complete. As Jesus said on the cross, after taking unto Himself the sins of the world, He said, “It is finished.” This one statement, with so much meaning, underscored that the issued commission to His chosen apostles was complete.
From that point forward, the apostles were to be His witnesses unto the uttermost parts of the earth. (Acts 1:2-3) So it remains, even today. The Bible retains the Word of God as stated, continuing to bring the message of salvation to all ages. Most importantly, the written WORD remains to be the sole authority on any misunderstandings of the scriptures that might emerge.
This same principle applies today. The apostles exhorted the people to repent and be baptized into the name of Jesus for the remission of their sin, and as a consequence, 3,000 persons responded to the gospel message. The very same number of people were baptized the same day, proving that the Lord added to His body of Christ church daily. (Acts 2:36-41)
But while this all happened in Jerusalem in 300- 400 AD, the so called church fathers decided to rearrange the Word written and confirmed by God. Instead of baptism in the precious, holy Name of Jesus -- the Name proclaimed by the angel of the Lord, the only name whereby we must be saved, the name above every other name -- the so-called church fathers rearranged and replaced the water baptism message of the early church with a rewritten Matthew 28;19. (Acts 4:12; Philippians 2:9; Matthew 1:21-23; Luke 1:35)
Indeed, the interpretation, or should we say, misinterpretation emanated from Rome according to the cardinal Joseph Ratzinger (who was the self-declared pope). Thankfully, the Word of God to His people does not emanate from man-made religious systems, or a culture that refuses to be righteous and upright in Him. (Habakkuk 2:4)
"It shall come to pass in the last days, that the mountain of the Lord’s house shall be established in the top of the mountains, and shall be exalted above the hills. All nations shall flow unto it. And many people shall go and say come and let us go up to the mountain of the Lord, to the house of the God of Jacob. That He will teach us of His ways, and we will walk in His paths for out of Zion shall go forth the law, and the WORD OF THE LORD FROM JERUSALEM." (Isaiah 2:2-3)
Similarly, Micah chapter 4:1-2 states that in the last days it shall come to pass that the mountain of the house of the Lord shall be established in the top of the mountains. It also shall be exalted above the hills and shall flow unto it. Many nations shall come, and say to the people, come and let us go up to the mountain of the Lord. To the house of the God of Jacob and He will teach us of His ways. We will walk in His paths for the law shall go forth of Zion. AND THE WORD OF THE LORD FROM JERUSALEM.
In the upper room, the followers of Jesus tarried until the power from on high had come -- as the risen Jesus said, "But ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you ..." (Acts 1:7-8; Mark 16:15)
Thus, what hinders you from being water baptized into the authorized name of Jesus - in the same way that was preached initially at Jerusalem? Let God be true, saith the scriptures. He is the sole commander in chief of our salvation. The same Lord who pitched the tent. Whatever He tells you to do, we are to do. In so doing, the baptismal watery grave into Jesus' death will become within you a well of living water. It is your call. Save yourselves from this untoward generation.
May the blessings of our Great God and our only Saviour the Lord Jesus rest upon you always.
Stand in the offering plate.
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