"It is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle, than for a rich man to enter the kingdom of God." (Matthew 19:23-24; Matthew 10:24-25; Luke 18:25)
Continuing on the theme of offerings -- from the perspective of "stand in the offering plate" -- Matthew offers considerable insights. For example, in the latter portion of Matthew 19, Jesus has just spoken to the rich young ruler who wanted to know if there was anything he lacked -- yet? (Matthew 19: 20-21)
As we observe, His disciples were surprised with Jesus' response, asking, "Who then can be saved?" From their perspective, the disciples had already forsaken everything they had to follow Jesus. Indeed, as the scriptures state, the disciples had left their nets behind. But the insight we will soon understand herein is that the Lord is looking for hearts that are right in Him. Thus, in the case of the rich man, the Lord exposed his heart for believing he could buy his way into the kingdom; into eternal life -- through good works and keeping the commandments.
"If thou wilt be perfect ..." said Jesus. (Matthew 19:21)
Note that the rich man desired to know if he still lacked. Thus, Jesus instructs him to go and sell all that he had, and give to the poor. Why? So that the rich man would have treasure in heaven? Like the rich man, this is too often the only message we hear. That is, to go and sell all that you have and give to the poor -- so that ye shall have treasure in heaven.
But let's read Jesus' instructions to the rich young ruler a second time. "... thou shall have treasure in heaven AND come [and] follow Me." (Matthew 19:21; Luke 12:33)
Now what do you see? Indeed, Jesus didn't focus on the rich man's worldly wealth because He already knew the riches in heaven would not compare. Indeed, as Jesus told His disciples, "In My Father's house are many mansions; if it were not so, I would have told you," (John 14:2) What Jesus wanted the ruler to focus on was the same message He had given to those who followed Him from the beginning. And by extension to us. That is, "Follow Me!"
Throughout the scriptures (in both the old and the new) the Lord Jesus is continually trying to get us to worship Him in Spirit and in truth. He doesn't need our money or worldly assets, but instead, wants us to become His disciple, wherein our focus too is on following Jesus.
In another place, Jesus said, "Sell that ye have, and give alms; provide yourselves bags which wax not old, a treasure in the heavens that fails not, where no thief approaches, neither moth corrupt ... for where your treasure is, there will be your heart also." (Luke 12:33-34; Luke 16:9; Matthew 6:21)
And then later, after Jesus was taken up, (after His death, burial and resurrection), Peter standing with the eleven on the day of Pentecost were witnesses of how Jesus' words were put into practice. "And all that believed were together and had all things common; and sold their possessions and goods, and parted them to all [men], as every man had need." (Acts 2:45; Acts 4:32)
Again, the key missed by the rich ruler? The real question being asked of him was whether he was willing to follow Jesus -- with all his heart, soul, mind and strength. (Mark 12:29-31; Deuteronomy 6:4-5)
As we see, the rich man went away sorrowful for he had great possessions. Sadly, he had stopped short. In many ways, one might conclude that he was interested in the blessings more so than the blesser. Like many, we desire the healing and the miracles but not the healer and miracle worker. Nevertheless, whatever had happened, it is clear the rich man did not hear the rest of Jesus statement -- for he walked away.
.
In so doing, he missed the greatest possession of all time -- Jesus who was standing in front of him -- the Lord of glory who came to save His people from their sins, the same God who created us in the beginning having robed Himself in flesh so that we might come to Him -- and have everlasting life.
In other words, Jesus wanted the rich ruler to desire His goodness, and mercy, His righteousness and judgment, His loving kindness and mercies, and His faithfulness. (Hosea 2:7)
One more scripture to consider -- when we are making decisins.
Jesus said, "Verily, I say unto you - that ye which have followed Me in the regeneration ... when the Son of man shall sit in the throne of His glory, ye also shall sit upon twelve thrones, judging the twelve tribes of Israel. 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. But many that are first shall be last; and the last shall be first." (Matthew 19:28-30; Matthew 25:31; Revelation 3:21; Matthew 19:16; Luke 14:26; Matthew 20:16; Mark 10:31)
More to come. 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
Sunday, May 24, 2020
Saturday, May 23, 2020
And Having Done All ... Stand For The Things Which Are Right, Just And True - Part 2507
If we can divert from our understanding of offerings for this one moment, here are some insights (from Twitter -- which the original author of this post used to share, before going home to be with our Lord God and Saviour Jesus the Christ!) I hope this edifies ... stand in the offering plate.
And verse l6 also; "only they were baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus”
Speak the Word only and we shall be healed!
There are 3 that bear witness on earth .. the Blood - the Water - the Spirit
We are the offspring of the SEED of the Holy Spirit which SEED is JESUS the CHRIST!
If any man has not received the Holy Spirit of Christ He is not of Christ!
The Law of the Spirit of life in JESUS has made me free from the law of sin and death!
There are some that trouble you saying you must keep the Law! Read Acts 15 and be free!
You are not under Law!
The Law was given through Moses .. BUT .. Grace and Truth came by JESUS the Christ!
Where there is a change in the priesthood there is also a necessity for a change in covenant!
To the Son it is said “Thy Throne O' God is forever and ever!”
And let all the angels of God worship Him!
This is My beloved SON .. HEAR YE HIM!
You are not under the old covenant! This in a New Testament written in the blood of the Holy Spirit!
If they speak not according to this Word it is because there is no light of Christ within them !
If any think themselves to be spiritual, let them acknowledge that these written things are the Commandments of God!
Which Word was at first preached to us by the Lord, then delivered to us by them that heard Him!
Arise Paul be baptized and wash away your sin whilst you call upon the name of the LORD JESUS!
What must we do? the Holy Spirit said,.. Do Acts 2:37- 42 God Bless U
Call His name JESUS for it is He who shall save His people from their sin!
JESUS breath is the Holy Spirit! Have you received the Holy Spirit?
He that has the Son has LIFE. He that has not the Son has not life!
God fathered all His aforeknown children in a Son body!
They went everywhere PREACHING .. JESUS!
God is Spirit JESUS is God Himself manifest in flesh as a SON!
JESUS is God Himself with us!
Every knee will bow and every tongue confess that JESUS the Christ is LORD!
JESUS .. My Lord and My God!
All the fullness of the Godhead dwells bodily in JESUS!
If you have seen Me you have seen your Father. Why are you saying show us the Father?
He was in the world , and the world was made by Him, and the world still does not know Him!
The Word was veiled in flesh, the Same Word that was in the beginning!
Command them that they teach no other doctrine!
The Word of God is coming to us, NOT out from us.
God meant what He said, and said what He meant!
God meant what He said, and said what He meant!
After JESUS ascended up, HE through His Holy Spirit gave commandments to His apostles!
Moses was part of the house as a servant! JESUS is the builder of the house. Hear ye HIM!
Earnestly contending for the faith that was once delivered to us by the LORD JESUS Himself! Peace ...
The washing of water by the Word, by which Word the Holy Spirit tells us what we must do. Acts 2:37- 42 God Bless U
JESUS was in the world, and the world was made by JESUS, and the world even now does not know JESUS!
In the day that you seek me with all your heart, that is the very day I will come to You!
The Lord our God has become our Saviour, JESUS God with us as a Son
Fear not for it is your Father's good pleasure to give you the Kingdom! God in Christ
And they crucified the Lord of Glory, saying we will not have this man rule over us
We are the offspring of Christ planted together with Him and raised up in Him a new creation
A family feud, Abraham fathered both, you need to inherit the faith of your father instead of sacrificing each other!
For the entrance of His Word brings light comfort, joy peace, and much consolation!
God Bless U
God Bless U
The people which He foreknew, them He called - His chosen people, are now the people of God in Christ JESUS!
The powers that be are feathering their own nests! The blind lead the blind!
God gave them up to devile themselves, men with men - women with women, natural law discarded .. Romans 1
According to your faith so be it done unto you! Have Faith in God!
And they say there is no devil.. no pill popping here! The devil reacted when JESUS said come out!
They stoned Stephen to death, Stephen said they resisted the Holy Ghost even as their fathers had done. They were cut off'
Life cannot be found in the bottom of a bottle, the genie in the bottle is slow death!
May our words always be sweet just in case we should have to eat them. God bless you
Therefore if any man will hear the voice of the Holy Spirit Christ JESUS will come in and sup with him!
The church has departed from the apostolic teaching of the Holy Spirit and is no longer a witness!
Herein perceive we the love of God .. in that He laid down His Life for us! GBU
You shall call His name JESUS! for He shall save His people!
We are the offspring of Christ!
For the priesthood of Christ is after the order of Melchisedec NOT after Moses.
In Christ is the Law of the Spirit of life!
In Christ is the Law of the Spirit of life!
And where there is a change in the priesthood necessitates also a change in the Law
ACTS 2:37-42 And you 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
JESUS IS THE WORD OF GOD not the word of another!
Return to what must we do? The Holy Ghost declares ACTS 2:37- 42
Sitting together in heavenly places in JESUS the Christ!
We have a great high priest touched with the feelings of our infirmities
God as a Son laid down His life for us!
Beloved now are we the sons of God!
Beloved now are we the sons of God!
Natural law does not bless such foolishness! It will backfire
This is My beloved Son hear you Him and they saw no man save JESUS ONLY!
The Law was given by Moses- BUT- grace and truth is found in JESUS the Christ
And in that SEED (which is Christ singular ) will all the nations of the earth be blessed!
JESUS is able to keep us from falling and to present us faultless!
There is no condemnation to any of them who are in Christ JESUS purchased by the blood of the Holy Spirit!
And having done all STAND
Not because of works of righteousness which we have done but according to His mercy He has saved us!
Oh yes! A people foreknown of God called by His name JESUS!
The New Testament is written only is Greek and nowhere therein is there any mention of yeshua.
No salvation in any other name -- only JESUS!
What God has cleansed let no man call common or unclean! Peace!
It is Roman dogma whereas the first message by the Holy Ghost was ACTS 2: 38 and Luke 24.
The Blessing Of The Lord, It Makes Rich, And He Adds No Sorrow With It - Part 2506
"... but his bow abode in strength, and the arms of his hands were made strong by the hands of the Mighty God of Jacob; (from thence is the Shepherd, the Stone of Israel:) [even] by the God of thy father, who shall help thee; and by the Almighty, who shall bless thee with blessings of heaven above, blessings of the deep that lies under, blessings of the breasts, and of the womb: the blessings of Thy Father have prevailed above the blessings of My progenitors unto the utmost bound of the everlasting hills!" (Genesis 49:24-26)
As we further establish how the Lord God desires our heart, let's add Deuteronomy 16:17 to the mix -- so that we can begin to lay a foundation of understanding when it comes to giving. Note that this scripture fully aligns with the apostles' teaching and example in Acts 2 and 4 -- "every man shall give as he is able, according to the blessing of the Lord thy God which he hath given thee." (Deuteronomy 16:17)
Moreover, from the same chapter -- "The Lord shall command the blessing upon thee in thy storehouses, and in all that thou set thine hand unto; and He shall bless thee in the land which the Lord thy God giveth thee." (Deuteronomy 28:8)
"And all these blessings shall come on thee, and overtake thee, if thou shalt hearken unto the voice of the Lord thy God." (Deuteronomy 28:2)
In offering a comparison between the man-made, religious instruction of giving back to the Lord our God and Saviour for the many blessings He bestows upon us, we concluded (in the last blog) with the idea of standing in the offering plate.
Perhaps, before we continue with the theme established in the last blog, we can begin by imagining the traditional church offering plate on the floor and rather than reaching for our wallets, stepping into the plate. Physically! What thoughts come to mind? Does it change how we think about being that flow-through for the Lord?
Does it change our perspective about the first commandment? That is, "Hear O Israel the Lord thy God is One Lord. And thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all your heart, with all your soul, with all your mind, and with all your strength." (Mark 12:29-31; Deuteronomy 6:4)
In the last post, we cited the prophet Malachi which spoke of tithes, and bringing one's first-fruits to the storehouse. For believers, this has been a continued mantra from pulpits but have we taken the time to consider the context of those scriptures. For example, Malachi 2:1-2 states -- "And now, O ye priests, this commandment is for you. If ye will not hear, and if ye will not lay it to heart, to give glory unto My Name," saith the Lord of hosts, "I will even send a curse upon you, and I will curse your blessings: yea, I have cursed them already, because ye do not lay it to heart." Behold, I will corrupt your seed, and spread dung upon your faces, even the dung of your solemn feasts; and one shall take you away with it." (Malachi 2:1-3)
In offering a comparison between the man-made, religious instruction of giving back to the Lord our God and Saviour for the many blessings He bestows upon us, we concluded (in the last blog) with the idea of standing in the offering plate.
Perhaps, before we continue with the theme established in the last blog, we can begin by imagining the traditional church offering plate on the floor and rather than reaching for our wallets, stepping into the plate. Physically! What thoughts come to mind? Does it change how we think about being that flow-through for the Lord?
Does it change our perspective about the first commandment? That is, "Hear O Israel the Lord thy God is One Lord. And thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all your heart, with all your soul, with all your mind, and with all your strength." (Mark 12:29-31; Deuteronomy 6:4)
In the last post, we cited the prophet Malachi which spoke of tithes, and bringing one's first-fruits to the storehouse. For believers, this has been a continued mantra from pulpits but have we taken the time to consider the context of those scriptures. For example, Malachi 2:1-2 states -- "And now, O ye priests, this commandment is for you. If ye will not hear, and if ye will not lay it to heart, to give glory unto My Name," saith the Lord of hosts, "I will even send a curse upon you, and I will curse your blessings: yea, I have cursed them already, because ye do not lay it to heart." Behold, I will corrupt your seed, and spread dung upon your faces, even the dung of your solemn feasts; and one shall take you away with it." (Malachi 2:1-3)
As you can see, even from these limited scriptures, there is a very different understanding emerging. Remember that following Malachi's preaching of the Word, there was 430 years of silence from the Lord. In the days ahead, we will return to Malachi -- so that we can more fully understand this prophecy from the Lord.
For today, however, let's consider blessings. In the scriptures, the word blessing is cited 73 times - 60 times in the old testament and 13 times in the new. If we add the letter s to blessing -- we see that blessings are referenced 9 times in the old and only once in the new testament.
"... that in blessing I will bless thee, and in multiplying I will multiply thy seed as the stars of the heaven, and as the sand which is upon the sea shore; and thy seed shall possess the gate of his enemies; and in thy seed shall all the nations of the earth be blessed; because thou hast obeyed My voice." (Genesis 22:17)
"... that in blessing I will bless thee, and in multiplying I will multiply thy seed as the stars of the heaven, and as the sand which is upon the sea shore; and thy seed shall possess the gate of his enemies; and in thy seed shall all the nations of the earth be blessed; because thou hast obeyed My voice." (Genesis 22:17)
Does anyone remember Joseph, when the Lord blessed not only the house of the Egyptian where Joseph laboured as an overseer but also the field -- because of Joseph? "... that the Lord blessed the Egyptian’s house for Joseph’s sake; and the blessing of the Lord was upon all that he had in the house, and in the field!" (Genesis 38:5) As you can see, Joseph was a goodly person and well favoured.
You see, the Lord sets before us blessing and curse -- a blessing when we heed His voice. (Deuteronomy 11:26-27) Thankfully, this same Lord continues to give us this choice today -- inviting us to dwell in the heavenly with Him.
"Grace be to you, and peace, from God our Father, and from the Lord Jesus Christ. Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who hath blessed us with all spiritual blessings in heavenly [places] in Christ: according as He hath chosen us in Him before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy and without blame before Him in love ..." (Ephesians 1:2-3)
"Grace be to you, and peace, from God our Father, and from the Lord Jesus Christ. Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who hath blessed us with all spiritual blessings in heavenly [places] in Christ: according as He hath chosen us in Him before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy and without blame before Him in love ..." (Ephesians 1:2-3)
Throughout the old and the new, the Lord has invited us to choose life -- choose life in Him, wherein the voice we hear is the voice of the Good Shepherd that laid down His life for the sheep. He knows our very being, and notably, as we see in Deuteronomy 16, He never asks us to give more than we are able.
This is why standing in the offering plate is such an insightful revelation -- because the Lord knows our hearts, our innermost thoughts -- and yet, He still loves us beyond measure. Again, Jesus' parable of the man knocking on the neighbour's door at midnight for a loaf of bread. Obviously, much more to come. But for now, stand in the offering plate. Ask the Lord Jesus to lead and guide you in all things this day.
"He that hath clean hands, and a pure heart; who hath not lifted up his soul unto vanity, nor sworn deceitfully, he shall receive the blessing from the Lord, and righteousness from the God of his salvation." (Psalm 24:4-6)
"He that hath clean hands, and a pure heart; who hath not lifted up his soul unto vanity, nor sworn deceitfully, he shall receive the blessing from the Lord, and righteousness from the God of his salvation." (Psalm 24:4-6)
Stand in the offering plate.
[Note: progenitors is defined as "to beget"]
[Note: progenitors is defined as "to beget"]
Friday, May 22, 2020
And Ye Shall Be The Children Of The Highest; For He Is Kind Unto The Unthankful And To The Evil - Part 2505
There is a lot of dialogue these days about tithing and charity. From the believing standpoint, we consider both to be of relevance, because this is what we are called to do. Not necessarily tithing (as we will see from the scriptures below) but rather to show the benefits of standing in the offering plate.
A prime example of charity can be found in Acts when Peter (standing with the apostles) on the day of Pentecost gave the salvation message. (Acts 2:36-47)
That is, to repent and be water baptized in the precious holy name of the Lord Jesus Christ, for the remission of sins -- everyone of us -- so that we too can receive the gift of the Holy Ghost. On that day, the first 3,000 souls saved on the new testament side went onto change the world. (Acts 1:19)
For purposes of context, we know that people from every nation had gathered together in Jerusalem for the day of Pentecost. Suddenly, there came a sound from heaven (as a rushing mighty wind) and it filled all the house where they were sitting. And there appeared unto them cloven tongues as of fire and it sat upon each of them. "And they were all filled with the Holy Ghost and began to speak with other tongues, as the Spirit gave them utterance." (Acts 2:4) The multitude that came together were confounded because these heard them speak in his own language. The question asked (which in its own right is interesting) -- "Behold, are not all these which speak Galilaeans?" (Acts 2:7)
As we know from the scriptures, this event was spoken earlier by the prophet Joel -- "and it shall come to pass in the last days, saith God, I will pour out My Spirit upon all flesh; and your sons and daughters shall prophesy, and your young men shall see visions, and your old men shall dream dreams; and on my servants and on my handmaidens, I will pour out in those days of My Spirit and they shall prophecy." (Acts 2:14-19; Joel 2:24; Acts 10:44-48; Isaiah 44:3)
They that believed, gladly receiving His Word (Jesus) were baptized. But their faith journey did not stop there. As we see from the scriptures -- "they continued steadfastly in the apostles' doctrine and fellowship, and in breaking of bread, and in prayers. And fear came upon every soul, and many wonders and signs were done by the apostles. And all that believed were together and had all things common and sold their possessions and goods, and parted them to all [men] -- as every man had need. (Acts 2:41-45)
"And the multitude of them that believed were of one heart and of one soul: neither said any [of them] that ought of the things which he possessed was his won; but they had all things common." (Acts 4:32)
And again, none of the people among them lacked, for as many as were possessors of lands or houses sold them and brought the prices of the things that were sold so that distribution was made unto every man according as he had need. (Acts 4:32-37)
We witness several connecting necessities happening here. First, when we are water baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus, we are taking on His name, becoming a witness to the world for Him. And, as said many times in this blog before -- when we are water baptized, He puts His cloak of righteousness onto us. In so doing, He no longer sees our sin and transgressions, our wrongdoings (because we are still human) but rather as a member of His body -- the body of Christ church.
Second, when we are believers, charity to one another should flow from His love, goodness, mercy and grace to one another -- so that no one within the body of Christ is without. If we further consider that charity is the greatest of the three -- faith, hope and charity -- we begin to see the significance of being a conduit for the gospel. (I Corinthians 13:13)
Note that these new testament scriptures are not referring to tithing (even though those believers who do tithe will testify that they are mightily blessed from doing so). Mightily blessed in the world? However, when we begin to see the world from the eyes of the same Lord God who is currently searching the world (to and fro, all the time), looking for hearts that are focused on Him, we begin to see that the charity spoken herein extends far beyond the world's token offering (sacrifice? idol?) of money.
Scripturally, tithing is an old testament instruction, wherein ten percent of the first fruits (10 % of the gross wages, as we would say in today's world) would be given to the Lord. The scripture oft cited comes from Malachi 3:8-10.
That is, "Will a man rob God? Yet ye have robbed Me. But ye say, "Wherein have we robbed Thee?" In tithes and offerings. Ye are cursed with a curse; for ye have robbed Me, even this whole nation. Bring ye all the tithes into the storehouse, that there may be meat in Mine house, and prove Me now herewith," saith the Lord, ""if I will not open you the windows of heaven and pour you out a blessing, that there shall not be room enough to receive it." (Malachi 3:8-10; Malachi 2:2; Genesis 7:11; II Kings 7:2)
While man-made, institutionalized religion often focuses on the tithing within Malachi's prophecy, note that the Lord God is saying here -- tithes AND offerings. It is the latter -- offerings -- or more specifically, standing in the offering plate that is the focus of this day, and blogs going forward. For those long-time readers of this blog, standing in the offering plate has been the ongoing mantra, noting how the world will change when believers get beyond the idea that they are the sole owners of their worldly (personal) possessions -- to the rightful place wherein our hearts dictate that everything we have belongs to the Lord.
As the first commandment dictates, "Hear O Israel, the Lord thy God is One Lord. And thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with a thy soul, and with all thy mind, and with all th strength; this is the first commandment." (Deuteronomy 6:4; Mark 12:29-30)
Therefore, just as He has given us everything that He had -- God becoming flesh (and dwelling among us) and then willingly shedding His precious, holy blood so that we might have abundant life in Him -- we who believe should likewise be willing to bring offerings to His storehouse. The offering of ourself and everything we are -- giving willingly to present His good news gospel of the Lord Jesus Christ.
There is much more to come on this topic -- and an in-depth study of the scriptures as well. But in the interim, it is our hope that in delving into this subject, we begin to understand that our Lord God and Saviour Jesus the Christ only wants the very best for His children. He does not withhold the bread when we come knocking at His door in the middle of the night -- does He? (Luke 11:5-8) And indeed, there is nothing that we can give Him (or build for Him) -- the earth being His footstool.
Jesus said, "Give, and it shall be given unto you; good measure, pressed down and shaken together; and running over shall men give into your bosom. For with the same measure that ye mete withal, it shall be measured to you again." (Luke 6:38)
Stand in the offering plate.
A prime example of charity can be found in Acts when Peter (standing with the apostles) on the day of Pentecost gave the salvation message. (Acts 2:36-47)
That is, to repent and be water baptized in the precious holy name of the Lord Jesus Christ, for the remission of sins -- everyone of us -- so that we too can receive the gift of the Holy Ghost. On that day, the first 3,000 souls saved on the new testament side went onto change the world. (Acts 1:19)
For purposes of context, we know that people from every nation had gathered together in Jerusalem for the day of Pentecost. Suddenly, there came a sound from heaven (as a rushing mighty wind) and it filled all the house where they were sitting. And there appeared unto them cloven tongues as of fire and it sat upon each of them. "And they were all filled with the Holy Ghost and began to speak with other tongues, as the Spirit gave them utterance." (Acts 2:4) The multitude that came together were confounded because these heard them speak in his own language. The question asked (which in its own right is interesting) -- "Behold, are not all these which speak Galilaeans?" (Acts 2:7)
As we know from the scriptures, this event was spoken earlier by the prophet Joel -- "and it shall come to pass in the last days, saith God, I will pour out My Spirit upon all flesh; and your sons and daughters shall prophesy, and your young men shall see visions, and your old men shall dream dreams; and on my servants and on my handmaidens, I will pour out in those days of My Spirit and they shall prophecy." (Acts 2:14-19; Joel 2:24; Acts 10:44-48; Isaiah 44:3)
They that believed, gladly receiving His Word (Jesus) were baptized. But their faith journey did not stop there. As we see from the scriptures -- "they continued steadfastly in the apostles' doctrine and fellowship, and in breaking of bread, and in prayers. And fear came upon every soul, and many wonders and signs were done by the apostles. And all that believed were together and had all things common and sold their possessions and goods, and parted them to all [men] -- as every man had need. (Acts 2:41-45)
"And the multitude of them that believed were of one heart and of one soul: neither said any [of them] that ought of the things which he possessed was his won; but they had all things common." (Acts 4:32)
And again, none of the people among them lacked, for as many as were possessors of lands or houses sold them and brought the prices of the things that were sold so that distribution was made unto every man according as he had need. (Acts 4:32-37)
We witness several connecting necessities happening here. First, when we are water baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus, we are taking on His name, becoming a witness to the world for Him. And, as said many times in this blog before -- when we are water baptized, He puts His cloak of righteousness onto us. In so doing, He no longer sees our sin and transgressions, our wrongdoings (because we are still human) but rather as a member of His body -- the body of Christ church.
Second, when we are believers, charity to one another should flow from His love, goodness, mercy and grace to one another -- so that no one within the body of Christ is without. If we further consider that charity is the greatest of the three -- faith, hope and charity -- we begin to see the significance of being a conduit for the gospel. (I Corinthians 13:13)
Note that these new testament scriptures are not referring to tithing (even though those believers who do tithe will testify that they are mightily blessed from doing so). Mightily blessed in the world? However, when we begin to see the world from the eyes of the same Lord God who is currently searching the world (to and fro, all the time), looking for hearts that are focused on Him, we begin to see that the charity spoken herein extends far beyond the world's token offering (sacrifice? idol?) of money.
Scripturally, tithing is an old testament instruction, wherein ten percent of the first fruits (10 % of the gross wages, as we would say in today's world) would be given to the Lord. The scripture oft cited comes from Malachi 3:8-10.
That is, "Will a man rob God? Yet ye have robbed Me. But ye say, "Wherein have we robbed Thee?" In tithes and offerings. Ye are cursed with a curse; for ye have robbed Me, even this whole nation. Bring ye all the tithes into the storehouse, that there may be meat in Mine house, and prove Me now herewith," saith the Lord, ""if I will not open you the windows of heaven and pour you out a blessing, that there shall not be room enough to receive it." (Malachi 3:8-10; Malachi 2:2; Genesis 7:11; II Kings 7:2)
While man-made, institutionalized religion often focuses on the tithing within Malachi's prophecy, note that the Lord God is saying here -- tithes AND offerings. It is the latter -- offerings -- or more specifically, standing in the offering plate that is the focus of this day, and blogs going forward. For those long-time readers of this blog, standing in the offering plate has been the ongoing mantra, noting how the world will change when believers get beyond the idea that they are the sole owners of their worldly (personal) possessions -- to the rightful place wherein our hearts dictate that everything we have belongs to the Lord.
As the first commandment dictates, "Hear O Israel, the Lord thy God is One Lord. And thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with a thy soul, and with all thy mind, and with all th strength; this is the first commandment." (Deuteronomy 6:4; Mark 12:29-30)
Therefore, just as He has given us everything that He had -- God becoming flesh (and dwelling among us) and then willingly shedding His precious, holy blood so that we might have abundant life in Him -- we who believe should likewise be willing to bring offerings to His storehouse. The offering of ourself and everything we are -- giving willingly to present His good news gospel of the Lord Jesus Christ.
There is much more to come on this topic -- and an in-depth study of the scriptures as well. But in the interim, it is our hope that in delving into this subject, we begin to understand that our Lord God and Saviour Jesus the Christ only wants the very best for His children. He does not withhold the bread when we come knocking at His door in the middle of the night -- does He? (Luke 11:5-8) And indeed, there is nothing that we can give Him (or build for Him) -- the earth being His footstool.
Jesus said, "Give, and it shall be given unto you; good measure, pressed down and shaken together; and running over shall men give into your bosom. For with the same measure that ye mete withal, it shall be measured to you again." (Luke 6:38)
Stand in the offering plate.
Tuesday, May 12, 2020
For I'm Not Ashamed Of The Gospel Of Christ By Whom We Have Now Received Atonement Once And For All- Part 2504
"For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ: for it is the power of God unto salvation to every one that believes, to the Jew first, and also to the Greek [Gentile]. For therein is the righteousness of God revealed from faith to faith: as it is written, "The just shall live by faith!" (Romans 1:16-17; Habakkuk 2:4; Galatians 3:11; Hebrews 10:38)
So why then (if we continue onward from the last post) are we so willing to go back into bondage -- to draw back from the freedom of believing in Jesus the Christ as our Lord God and Saviour -- and instead be in submission under a law which could never make the hearts of men and women perfect? And, in so doing, failing to understand that the righteousness of God -- "which is by faith of Jesus Christ" is unto all and upon all them that believe. (Romans 3:22) Or believing that when we believe in the Son, we have been set free from all the worldly entanglements, fully able to stand fast in the liberty wherewith is Christ. (Galatians 5:1)
Jesus said, "Verily, verily, I say unto you -- Moses gave you not that bread from heaven; but My Father gives you the true bread from heaven ... for the bread of God is He which comes down from heaven and gives life unto the world." This is why Jesus could say, "I AM the bread of life; he that comes to Me shall never hunger and he that believes on Me shall never thirst." (John 6:29-35)
And in another place, "I Am the door of the sheep. 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 ... I AM the Good Shepherd: the Good Shepherd gives His life for the sheep." (John 10:7-11; 14)
As we glean from the scriptures, apostle Paul continually preached/preaches to this day through the new testament that we who believe in the risen Jesus (as both Lord and Christ) are saved by grace. (Acts 2:36-41) Not good works, or by being an upstanding citizen in the eyes of our peers (as the world would have us believe) but rather after the kindness and love of God our Saviour toward man appearing. (Titus 3:4-7; Acts 20:28; I Timothy 3:16) He paid the ultimate price for our sins once and for all on a cross -- shedding His precious, holy blood for you and I -- so that we might have life abundantly in Him. Indeed, the vail was torn from top to bottom, from heaven to earth by the same Lord who is calling us this day into His ultimate love, peace and joy.
"Take heed therefore unto yourselves, and to all the flock, over the which the Holy Ghost hath made you overseers, to feed the church of God, which He hath purchased with His own blood." (Acts 20:28)
Is this to suggest that we who believe are free from doing good works? Or from showing charity wherein we flow through the Lord's love for us to others? From supporting one another? From loving our neighbour? Of course not. Jesus said, "Ye shall know them by their fruit!"
But what Paul is establishing herein is that we (both Jew and Gentile) are all under sin -- for as it is written, "There is none righteous, no, not one; there is none that understands, there is none that seeks after God." Why? Because they are all gone out of the way, they are together become unprofitable; there is none that does good, no, not one." And there is no fear of God before their eyes." (Romans 3:9-18)
Continuing, "Now we know what things soever the law saith, it saith to them who are under the law; that every mouth may be stopped; and all the world may become guilty before God. Therefore by the deeds of the law there shall no flesh be justified in His sight; for by the law is the knowledge of sin." (Romans 3:19-20)
It is herein that the law became a schoolmaster to bring us to Christ. The schoolmaster that changes the law from the physical circumcision of good works and upstanding citizenship to the more desired spiritual circumcision of the heart, wherein we can fully understand that we are justified by faith -- thereby, establishing the law of faith. (Romans 3:27) No longer (as Paul teaches) are we to rest in the law, making our boast of God -- as Jews (that we are not!) Again, therefore by the deeds of the law there shall no flesh be justified in His sight, for by the law is the knowledge of sin. (Romans 3:20)
But His love does not stop with condemnation, wherein there is no hope. As we see in so much of the new testament writings, there is a "but now."
"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 [now] no difference [between Jew or Gentile]; 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)
Thus, we are justified by the same Him who made the world and was in the world but the world rejected Him. The same Him who came unto His own but His own would not have Him as both Lord and Christ in their hearts. (John 1:10-11) The Word which was God made flesh so that we might have an abundance of life in Him.
For the promise that he should be the heir of the world was not to Abraham, or to his seed through the law, but through the righteousness of faith. For if they which are of the law be heirs, faith is made void and the promise made of none effect; because the law works wrath, for where no law is, there is no transgression. Therefore, it 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 ... who against hope believed in hope. (Romans 4:13-25)
"Therefore, being justified by faith we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ, by whom also we have access by faith into His grace wherein we stand and rejoice in the hope of the glory of God." (Romans 5:1-2)
Why? Because God commended Hs love toward us, in that while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us. Much more then, being now justified by His blood, we shall be saved from wrath through Him. For if, when we were enemies, we were reconciled to God by the death of His Son, much more, being reconciled, we shall be saved by His life. (Romans 5:8-10)
Much more to come. In the interim, stand in the offering plate.
So why then (if we continue onward from the last post) are we so willing to go back into bondage -- to draw back from the freedom of believing in Jesus the Christ as our Lord God and Saviour -- and instead be in submission under a law which could never make the hearts of men and women perfect? And, in so doing, failing to understand that the righteousness of God -- "which is by faith of Jesus Christ" is unto all and upon all them that believe. (Romans 3:22) Or believing that when we believe in the Son, we have been set free from all the worldly entanglements, fully able to stand fast in the liberty wherewith is Christ. (Galatians 5:1)
Jesus said, "Verily, verily, I say unto you -- Moses gave you not that bread from heaven; but My Father gives you the true bread from heaven ... for the bread of God is He which comes down from heaven and gives life unto the world." This is why Jesus could say, "I AM the bread of life; he that comes to Me shall never hunger and he that believes on Me shall never thirst." (John 6:29-35)
And in another place, "I Am the door of the sheep. 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 ... I AM the Good Shepherd: the Good Shepherd gives His life for the sheep." (John 10:7-11; 14)
As we glean from the scriptures, apostle Paul continually preached/preaches to this day through the new testament that we who believe in the risen Jesus (as both Lord and Christ) are saved by grace. (Acts 2:36-41) Not good works, or by being an upstanding citizen in the eyes of our peers (as the world would have us believe) but rather after the kindness and love of God our Saviour toward man appearing. (Titus 3:4-7; Acts 20:28; I Timothy 3:16) He paid the ultimate price for our sins once and for all on a cross -- shedding His precious, holy blood for you and I -- so that we might have life abundantly in Him. Indeed, the vail was torn from top to bottom, from heaven to earth by the same Lord who is calling us this day into His ultimate love, peace and joy.
"Take heed therefore unto yourselves, and to all the flock, over the which the Holy Ghost hath made you overseers, to feed the church of God, which He hath purchased with His own blood." (Acts 20:28)
Is this to suggest that we who believe are free from doing good works? Or from showing charity wherein we flow through the Lord's love for us to others? From supporting one another? From loving our neighbour? Of course not. Jesus said, "Ye shall know them by their fruit!"
But what Paul is establishing herein is that we (both Jew and Gentile) are all under sin -- for as it is written, "There is none righteous, no, not one; there is none that understands, there is none that seeks after God." Why? Because they are all gone out of the way, they are together become unprofitable; there is none that does good, no, not one." And there is no fear of God before their eyes." (Romans 3:9-18)
Continuing, "Now we know what things soever the law saith, it saith to them who are under the law; that every mouth may be stopped; and all the world may become guilty before God. Therefore by the deeds of the law there shall no flesh be justified in His sight; for by the law is the knowledge of sin." (Romans 3:19-20)
It is herein that the law became a schoolmaster to bring us to Christ. The schoolmaster that changes the law from the physical circumcision of good works and upstanding citizenship to the more desired spiritual circumcision of the heart, wherein we can fully understand that we are justified by faith -- thereby, establishing the law of faith. (Romans 3:27) No longer (as Paul teaches) are we to rest in the law, making our boast of God -- as Jews (that we are not!) Again, therefore by the deeds of the law there shall no flesh be justified in His sight, for by the law is the knowledge of sin. (Romans 3:20)
But His love does not stop with condemnation, wherein there is no hope. As we see in so much of the new testament writings, there is a "but now."
"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 [now] no difference [between Jew or Gentile]; 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)
Thus, we are justified by the same Him who made the world and was in the world but the world rejected Him. The same Him who came unto His own but His own would not have Him as both Lord and Christ in their hearts. (John 1:10-11) The Word which was God made flesh so that we might have an abundance of life in Him.
For the promise that he should be the heir of the world was not to Abraham, or to his seed through the law, but through the righteousness of faith. For if they which are of the law be heirs, faith is made void and the promise made of none effect; because the law works wrath, for where no law is, there is no transgression. Therefore, it 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 ... who against hope believed in hope. (Romans 4:13-25)
"Therefore, being justified by faith we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ, by whom also we have access by faith into His grace wherein we stand and rejoice in the hope of the glory of God." (Romans 5:1-2)
Why? Because God commended Hs love toward us, in that while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us. Much more then, being now justified by His blood, we shall be saved from wrath through Him. For if, when we were enemies, we were reconciled to God by the death of His Son, much more, being reconciled, we shall be saved by His life. (Romans 5:8-10)
Much more to come. In the interim, stand in the offering plate.
Saturday, May 9, 2020
Let Us Draw Near With A True Heart In Full Assurance Of Faith For Thou Hast Perfected Praise - Part 2503
For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them.
Picking up from where we left off in the last post -- our study of John 7 -- we understand that Jesus stayed back for some time in Galilea, for in Jewry the Jews had sought to kill Him. This was an ongoing theme, as we understand from John's writing, because the Jews did not have room in their heart for His Word. Thus, when Jesus finally went up into the temple in the midst of the feast (to teach the people) Jesus asks, "Did not Moses give you the law, and yet none of you keeps the law?" (John 7:19)
This is an interesting question, given the number of professing believers today who still demand that we obey the law given to Moses -- even though Jesus' sacrifice on the cross -- the Lamb of God shedding His precious, holy blood for you and I was the ultimate sacrifice, paying the price for our sins once and for all.
"For this cause ..." (Hebrews 9:15-18)
Please note that the law does not only consist of the 10 commandments written on tablets of stone but also the 613 other laws given as well. But is this really what Jesus intended for His people -- for believers to return to the same bondage as before, even after the law as a schoolmaster has brought us to Christ? For believers who have been set free, standing in the liberty wherewith is Christ -- to return to worldly entanglements -- wherein we cast aside the boldness to enter into the holiest by way of the blood of Jesus by a new and living way -- "which He hath consecrated for us, through the vail, that is to say His flesh"?
Let's examine the scriptures. First, we know through the prophets from afore, and the apostles' teachings that the Lord did a brand new thing in the new testament. We also know from Hebrews 9 and 10 that the law in the old covenant was a shadow of good things to come. We understand that it was therefore necessary that the pattern of things in the heavens should be purified with these: but the heavenly things themselves with better sacrifices than these.
"For Christ is not entered into the holy [places] made with hands which are the figures of the true; but into heaven itself, now to appear in the presence of God for us; not yet that He should offer Himself often, as the high priest enters into the holy place every year with blood of others, for then must He often have suffered since the foundation of the world: but now once in the end of the world that He appeared to put away sin by the sacrifice of Himself. " (Hebrews 9:24-26; Acts 20:28; I Timothy 3:16; John 1:10-11)
As well, in this current dispensation of grace, He writes His laws in our hearts.
"Wherefore the Holy Ghost also is a witness to us: for after that He had said before, "This is the covenant that I will make with them after those days," saith the Lord, "I will put My laws into their hearts, and in their minds will I write them, and their sins and inequities will I remember no more. Now where remission of these is, there is no more offering for sin." (Hebrews 10:15-20; Hebrews 9:15-18)
Apostle Paul further clarifies by stating that even in the reading of the old testament, the vail remains on our hearts.
"Seeing then that we have such hope, we use great plainness of speech: and not as Moses, which put a vail over his face, that the children of Israel could not steadfastly look to the end of that which is abolished: but their minds were blinded: for until this day remains the same vail untaken away in the reading of the old testament; which [vail] is done away in Christ. But even unto this day, when Moses is read, the vail is upon their heart. Nevertheless when it shall turn to the Lord, the vail shall be taken away. Now the Lord is that Spirit: and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is liberty." (II Corinthians 3:12-17)
From the scriptures, we should likewise understand that in the new, the circumcision of the flesh which was of ordinances, priesthood, and annual sacrifices (physical) has been replaced with circumcision of the heart (spiritual) in this current dispensation of grace. The first covenant was a worldly sanctuary. It required the Holy Ghost this signifying that the way into the holiest of all was not yet made manifest, while as the first tabernacle was yet standing. (Hebrews 9:8)
"Which was a figure for the time then present, in which were offered both gifts and sacrifices, that could not make him that did the service perfect as pertaining to the conscience ... which stood only in meats and drinks, and diverse washings, and carnal ordinances, imposed on them until the time of reformation." (Hebrews 9:9-11)
But Christ ...and for this cause He is the mediator of the new testament that by means of death, for the redemption of the transgressions that were under the first testament, they which are called might receive the promise of eternal inheritance ... " (Hebrews 9:15-18)
As in the old, there had to be a purchase made, a sacrifice in blood wherein we the saints could be ushered in -- particularly after the Lord God had said, "Sacrifice and offering Thou wouldest not, but a body hast Thou prepared Me, in burnt offerings and sacrifices for sin Thou hast had no pleasure." (Hebrews 10:8)
But did the Lord our God (who willingly became our Saviour) stop there? No! He became the bridge for our salvation -- "This is the covenant that I will make with them after those days," saith the Lord, "I will put My laws into their hearts, and in their minds will I write them; and their sins and iniquities will I remember no more. Now where remission of these is, there is no more offering for sin.
"Above when He said, "Sacrifice and offering and burnt offerings and offering for sin Thou wouldest not, neither hadst pleasure therein; which are offered by the law." Then said He, "Lo, I come to do Thy will, O God, He takes away the first, that He may establish the second -- by the which will we are sanctified through the offering of the body of Jesus Christ once for all. And every priest stands daily ministering and offering oftentimes 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." (Hebrews 10:5-14)
So apostle Paul continues -- "But God forbid that I should glory, save in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, by whom the world is crucified unto me, and I unto the world. For in Christ Jesus neither circumcision avails any thing, nor uncircumcision, but a new creature. And as many as walk according to this rule, peace [be] on them, and mercy, and upon the Israel of God." (Galatians 6:14-16; Galatians 5:5-7)
"For we are the circumcision, which worship God in the Spirit, and rejoice in Christ Jesus, and have no confidence in the flesh." (Philippians 3:3)
"And ye are complete in Him, which is the head of all principality and power: in whom also ye are circumcised with the circumcision made without hands, in putting off the body of the sins of the flesh by the circumcision of Christ: buried with Him in baptism, wherein also ye are risen with Him through the faith of the operation of God, who hath raised Him from the dead." (Colossians 2:10)
From the gospels (Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John), Jesus provides numerous examples of breaking just one of the 10 commandments written on stone -- specifically, regarding the sabbath when Jesus would heal the sick, the lame, the broken-hearted and those possessed with demons.
For example, if we jump over to Matthew 12 for a moment, we see Jesus going through the corn and His disciples (who were hungry) plucking the ears of corn and eating them. But when the Pharisees saw, they said unto Jesus, "Behold thy disciples do that which is not lawful to do upon the sabbath day." (Matthew 12:1-2)
How does Jesus respond? Remember, this is immediately before Jesus goes into the temple and heals the man with a withered hand on the sabbath day.
Jesus asks, "Have ye not read what David did, when he was hungry, and they that were with him; how he entered into the house of God, and did eat the shewbread, which was not lawful for him to eat, neither for them which were with him, but only for the priests? Or have ye not read in the law how that on the sabbath days the priests in the temple profane the sabbath, and are blameless? But I say unto you -- that in this place is one greater than the temple. But if ye had known what this means, I will have mercy and not sacrifice, ye would not have condemned the guiltless. For the Son of man is Lord even of the sabbath day." (Matthew 12:3-8; I Samuel 21:3-6; Exodus 25:30; Leviticus 24:5-9 Numbers 28:9-10; John 7:22-23; II Chronicles 6:18; Matthew 12:41-42; Hosea 6:6)
Note that Jesus similarly said to the Pharisees in another place, "They that be whole need not a physician, but they that are sick. But go ye and learn what that means -- I will have mercy and not sacrifice -- for I AM not come to call the righteous, but sinners to repentance." (Matthew 9:13)
And earlier to the scribes, who within themselves accused Jesus of blasphemy. Again, knowing their thoughts, Jesus said, "Wherefore think ye evil in your hearts? For whether is easier, to say, "Thy sins be forgiven thee, or to say, Arise and walk? But that ye may know that the Son of man hath power on earth to forgive sins ..." (Matthew 9:6)
In all of these situations, the scribes and the Pharisees should have recognized the prophecy from afore -- given through Hosea, when the Word of the Lord said to the house of Israel and the priests -- "For I desired mercy and not sacrifice; and the knowledge of God more than burnt offerings. But they like men have transgressed the covenant: there have they dealt treacherously against Me ...." (Hosea 6:6-7; Matthew 12:7; Hosea 5:7; Hosea 8:1)
It is for this reason that Jesus could say to the Jews in the temple -- "Did not Moses give you the law, and yet none of you keep the law? Why go ye about to kill Me?" (John 7:19)
And "I have done one work, and ye all marvel. Moses therefore gave unto you circumcision, not because it is of Moses, but of the fathers, and ye on the sabbath day circumcise a man. If a man on the sabbath day receive circumcision, that the law of Moses should not be broken, are ye angry at Me, because I have made a man every whit whole on the sabbath day? Judge not according to the appearance but judge righteous judgment." (John 7:21-24)
You see, when God decided His plan of salvation (even before the world was formed) He knew that after His kindness and love, He would also have to become our Saviour. (Titus 3:4-7) And this He did in Jesus, wherein He could say to the Jews yet again -- "Ye both know Me and ye know whence I AM; and I am not come of Myself but He that sent Me is true, whom ye know not. But I know Him for I AM from Him and He hath sent Me." (John 7:28-29)
As we see once again, the Jews sought to take Him, but could not because His time was not yet come. Nevertheless, many of the people did believe on Him, asking, "When Christ comes, will He do more miracles than these which this [man] hath done?" (John 7:31)
Apostle Paul offers further clarity -- how He Himself hath broken down the middle wall of partition between us ...
"Wherefore remember, that ye being in time past Gentiles in the flesh, who are called Uncircumcision by that which is called the Circumcision in the flesh made by hands; that at that time ye were without Christ, being aliens from the commonwealth of Israel, and strangers from the covenants of promise, having no hope, and without God in the world: but now in Christ Jesus ye who sometimes were far off are made nigh by the blood of Christ.
Picking up from where we left off in the last post -- our study of John 7 -- we understand that Jesus stayed back for some time in Galilea, for in Jewry the Jews had sought to kill Him. This was an ongoing theme, as we understand from John's writing, because the Jews did not have room in their heart for His Word. Thus, when Jesus finally went up into the temple in the midst of the feast (to teach the people) Jesus asks, "Did not Moses give you the law, and yet none of you keeps the law?" (John 7:19)
This is an interesting question, given the number of professing believers today who still demand that we obey the law given to Moses -- even though Jesus' sacrifice on the cross -- the Lamb of God shedding His precious, holy blood for you and I was the ultimate sacrifice, paying the price for our sins once and for all.
"For this cause ..." (Hebrews 9:15-18)
Please note that the law does not only consist of the 10 commandments written on tablets of stone but also the 613 other laws given as well. But is this really what Jesus intended for His people -- for believers to return to the same bondage as before, even after the law as a schoolmaster has brought us to Christ? For believers who have been set free, standing in the liberty wherewith is Christ -- to return to worldly entanglements -- wherein we cast aside the boldness to enter into the holiest by way of the blood of Jesus by a new and living way -- "which He hath consecrated for us, through the vail, that is to say His flesh"?
Let's examine the scriptures. First, we know through the prophets from afore, and the apostles' teachings that the Lord did a brand new thing in the new testament. We also know from Hebrews 9 and 10 that the law in the old covenant was a shadow of good things to come. We understand that it was therefore necessary that the pattern of things in the heavens should be purified with these: but the heavenly things themselves with better sacrifices than these.
"For Christ is not entered into the holy [places] made with hands which are the figures of the true; but into heaven itself, now to appear in the presence of God for us; not yet that He should offer Himself often, as the high priest enters into the holy place every year with blood of others, for then must He often have suffered since the foundation of the world: but now once in the end of the world that He appeared to put away sin by the sacrifice of Himself. " (Hebrews 9:24-26; Acts 20:28; I Timothy 3:16; John 1:10-11)
As well, in this current dispensation of grace, He writes His laws in our hearts.
"Wherefore the Holy Ghost also is a witness to us: for after that He had said before, "This is the covenant that I will make with them after those days," saith the Lord, "I will put My laws into their hearts, and in their minds will I write them, and their sins and inequities will I remember no more. Now where remission of these is, there is no more offering for sin." (Hebrews 10:15-20; Hebrews 9:15-18)
Apostle Paul further clarifies by stating that even in the reading of the old testament, the vail remains on our hearts.
"Seeing then that we have such hope, we use great plainness of speech: and not as Moses, which put a vail over his face, that the children of Israel could not steadfastly look to the end of that which is abolished: but their minds were blinded: for until this day remains the same vail untaken away in the reading of the old testament; which [vail] is done away in Christ. But even unto this day, when Moses is read, the vail is upon their heart. Nevertheless when it shall turn to the Lord, the vail shall be taken away. Now the Lord is that Spirit: and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is liberty." (II Corinthians 3:12-17)
From the scriptures, we should likewise understand that in the new, the circumcision of the flesh which was of ordinances, priesthood, and annual sacrifices (physical) has been replaced with circumcision of the heart (spiritual) in this current dispensation of grace. The first covenant was a worldly sanctuary. It required the Holy Ghost this signifying that the way into the holiest of all was not yet made manifest, while as the first tabernacle was yet standing. (Hebrews 9:8)
"Which was a figure for the time then present, in which were offered both gifts and sacrifices, that could not make him that did the service perfect as pertaining to the conscience ... which stood only in meats and drinks, and diverse washings, and carnal ordinances, imposed on them until the time of reformation." (Hebrews 9:9-11)
But Christ ...and for this cause He is the mediator of the new testament that by means of death, for the redemption of the transgressions that were under the first testament, they which are called might receive the promise of eternal inheritance ... " (Hebrews 9:15-18)
As in the old, there had to be a purchase made, a sacrifice in blood wherein we the saints could be ushered in -- particularly after the Lord God had said, "Sacrifice and offering Thou wouldest not, but a body hast Thou prepared Me, in burnt offerings and sacrifices for sin Thou hast had no pleasure." (Hebrews 10:8)
But did the Lord our God (who willingly became our Saviour) stop there? No! He became the bridge for our salvation -- "This is the covenant that I will make with them after those days," saith the Lord, "I will put My laws into their hearts, and in their minds will I write them; and their sins and iniquities will I remember no more. Now where remission of these is, there is no more offering for sin.
"Above when He said, "Sacrifice and offering and burnt offerings and offering for sin Thou wouldest not, neither hadst pleasure therein; which are offered by the law." Then said He, "Lo, I come to do Thy will, O God, He takes away the first, that He may establish the second -- by the which will we are sanctified through the offering of the body of Jesus Christ once for all. And every priest stands daily ministering and offering oftentimes 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." (Hebrews 10:5-14)
So apostle Paul continues -- "But God forbid that I should glory, save in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, by whom the world is crucified unto me, and I unto the world. For in Christ Jesus neither circumcision avails any thing, nor uncircumcision, but a new creature. And as many as walk according to this rule, peace [be] on them, and mercy, and upon the Israel of God." (Galatians 6:14-16; Galatians 5:5-7)
"For we are the circumcision, which worship God in the Spirit, and rejoice in Christ Jesus, and have no confidence in the flesh." (Philippians 3:3)
"And ye are complete in Him, which is the head of all principality and power: in whom also ye are circumcised with the circumcision made without hands, in putting off the body of the sins of the flesh by the circumcision of Christ: buried with Him in baptism, wherein also ye are risen with Him through the faith of the operation of God, who hath raised Him from the dead." (Colossians 2:10)
For example, if we jump over to Matthew 12 for a moment, we see Jesus going through the corn and His disciples (who were hungry) plucking the ears of corn and eating them. But when the Pharisees saw, they said unto Jesus, "Behold thy disciples do that which is not lawful to do upon the sabbath day." (Matthew 12:1-2)
How does Jesus respond? Remember, this is immediately before Jesus goes into the temple and heals the man with a withered hand on the sabbath day.
Jesus asks, "Have ye not read what David did, when he was hungry, and they that were with him; how he entered into the house of God, and did eat the shewbread, which was not lawful for him to eat, neither for them which were with him, but only for the priests? Or have ye not read in the law how that on the sabbath days the priests in the temple profane the sabbath, and are blameless? But I say unto you -- that in this place is one greater than the temple. But if ye had known what this means, I will have mercy and not sacrifice, ye would not have condemned the guiltless. For the Son of man is Lord even of the sabbath day." (Matthew 12:3-8; I Samuel 21:3-6; Exodus 25:30; Leviticus 24:5-9 Numbers 28:9-10; John 7:22-23; II Chronicles 6:18; Matthew 12:41-42; Hosea 6:6)
Note that Jesus similarly said to the Pharisees in another place, "They that be whole need not a physician, but they that are sick. But go ye and learn what that means -- I will have mercy and not sacrifice -- for I AM not come to call the righteous, but sinners to repentance." (Matthew 9:13)
And earlier to the scribes, who within themselves accused Jesus of blasphemy. Again, knowing their thoughts, Jesus said, "Wherefore think ye evil in your hearts? For whether is easier, to say, "Thy sins be forgiven thee, or to say, Arise and walk? But that ye may know that the Son of man hath power on earth to forgive sins ..." (Matthew 9:6)
In all of these situations, the scribes and the Pharisees should have recognized the prophecy from afore -- given through Hosea, when the Word of the Lord said to the house of Israel and the priests -- "For I desired mercy and not sacrifice; and the knowledge of God more than burnt offerings. But they like men have transgressed the covenant: there have they dealt treacherously against Me ...." (Hosea 6:6-7; Matthew 12:7; Hosea 5:7; Hosea 8:1)
It is for this reason that Jesus could say to the Jews in the temple -- "Did not Moses give you the law, and yet none of you keep the law? Why go ye about to kill Me?" (John 7:19)
And "I have done one work, and ye all marvel. Moses therefore gave unto you circumcision, not because it is of Moses, but of the fathers, and ye on the sabbath day circumcise a man. If a man on the sabbath day receive circumcision, that the law of Moses should not be broken, are ye angry at Me, because I have made a man every whit whole on the sabbath day? Judge not according to the appearance but judge righteous judgment." (John 7:21-24)
You see, when God decided His plan of salvation (even before the world was formed) He knew that after His kindness and love, He would also have to become our Saviour. (Titus 3:4-7) And this He did in Jesus, wherein He could say to the Jews yet again -- "Ye both know Me and ye know whence I AM; and I am not come of Myself but He that sent Me is true, whom ye know not. But I know Him for I AM from Him and He hath sent Me." (John 7:28-29)
As we see once again, the Jews sought to take Him, but could not because His time was not yet come. Nevertheless, many of the people did believe on Him, asking, "When Christ comes, will He do more miracles than these which this [man] hath done?" (John 7:31)
Apostle Paul offers further clarity -- how He Himself hath broken down the middle wall of partition between us ...
"Wherefore remember, that ye being in time past Gentiles in the flesh, who are called Uncircumcision by that which is called the Circumcision in the flesh made by hands; that at that time ye were without Christ, being aliens from the commonwealth of Israel, and strangers from the covenants of promise, having no hope, and without God in the world: but now in Christ Jesus ye who sometimes were far off are made nigh by the blood of Christ.
For He is our peace, who hath made both one, and hath broken down the middle wall of partition between us; having abolished in His flesh the enmity, even the law of commandments contained in ordinances; for to make in Himself of twain one new man, so making peace; and that He might reconcile both unto God in one body by the cross, having slain the enmity thereby: and came and preached peace to you which were afar off, and to them that were nigh ... for through Him we both have access by one Spirit unto the Father.
Now therefore ye are no more strangers and foreigners, but fellow citizens with the saints, and of the household of God; and are built upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Jesus Christ Himself being the chief corner stone ...." (Ephesians 2:10-20)
So much to learn here, and obviously, much more to come. In the interim, stand in the offering plate.
Now therefore ye are no more strangers and foreigners, but fellow citizens with the saints, and of the household of God; and are built upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Jesus Christ Himself being the chief corner stone ...." (Ephesians 2:10-20)
So much to learn here, and obviously, much more to come. In the interim, stand in the offering plate.
Saturday, May 2, 2020
If Any Thirst, Let Him Come Unto Me And Drink, Saith Jesus -- King of kings And Lord of lords - Part 2502
This day, we are going to examine John 7. When Jesus was teaching in the temple (about the midst of the feast of the tabernacle), the Jews marvelled because this man (at least according to them) had never had any formal learning. Indeed, the Jews went so far as to question how Jesus knew letters. (John 7:14-15) Later on, in the last day (that great day of the feast), Jesus stood and cried, saying, "If any man thirst, let him come unto Me and drink ... he that believes on Me, as the scripture hath said, out of His belly shall flow rivers of living water." (John 7:37-38)
For context, Jesus knew that the Jews sought to kill Him. In fact, the Jews intentions were well known. This is why Jesus walked/abode longer in Galilee and not in Jewry. His brethren (that did not believe in Him) said unto Jesus that He should depart hence and go into Judaea so that His disciples might also see the works that He did -- for there is no man that does any thing in secret, and He Himself sought to be known openly. These brethren said, "If Thou do these things, shew Thyself to the world." (John 7:1-4)
But Jesus tells them, "My time is not yet come, but your time is alway ready. The world cannot hate you, but Me it hates, because I testify of it, that the works thereof are evil. Go ye up unto this feast: I go not up yet unto this feast, for My time is not yet full come." (John 7:6-8) It kind of reminds us of when the mother of Jesus wanted Jesus to turn the water into wine and Jesus said unto her, "Woman, what have I to do with thee? Mine hour is not yet come." (John 2:4)
After a period of time, Jesus travels up to the feast but not openly (as if it were in secret). As expected, the Jews sought Him out, asking among the people for information concerning His whereabouts. This caused much murmuring among the people for some saw Jesus as a good man, while others believed He deceived the people. Still, no one would speak openly either way -- for fear of the Jews. Now about the midst of the feast, Jesus heads to the temple to teach. This is the point in time when the Jews marvel because this man (to them) does not even know His letters.
Jesus answered them and said, "My doctrine is not Mine but His that sent Me. If any man do His will, he shall know of the doctrine, whether it be of God, or [whether] I speak of Myself; he that speaks of himself seeks his own glory; but he that seeks His glory that sent Him, the same is true and no unrighteousness is in Him. Did not Moses give you the law, and [yet] none of you keeps the law? Why go ye about to kill Me?" (John 7:16-19)
The people answered saying that Jesus hast a devil --"who goeth about to kill Thee?"
Knowing their hearts, Jesus said unto them, "I have done one work and ye all marvel. Moses therefore gave unto you circumcision; (not because it is of Moses, but of the fathers;) and ye on the sabbath day circumcise a man. If a man on the sabbath day receive circumcision, that the law of Moses should be not broken; are ye angry at Me because I have made a man every whit whole on the sabbath day? Judge not according to the appearance, but judge righteous judgement." (John 7:20-24)
This caused some to question whether Jesus was the very Christ -- the Rock which followed the Israelites through the Red Sea? And even more so, whether or not the rulers were aware that Jesus may be the prophesied Christ? "Howbeit ye know this man whence He is, but when Christ comes, no man knows whence He is." (John 7:27)
Then Jesus, again knowing their questions, taught them, saying, "Ye both know Me, and ye know whence I AM, and I AM not come of Myself but He that sent Me is true, whom ye know not. But I know Him: for I AM from Him, and He hath sent Me. Ye shall seek Me and shall not find Me; and where I AM, thither ye cannot come." (John 7:33-34)
Then said the Jews among themselves, "Whither will He go, that we shall not find Him? Will He go unto the dispersed among the Gentiles, and teach the Gentiles? What manner of saying is this that He said, "Ye shall seek me and shall not find Me, and where I AM; thither ye cannot come?" (John 7:35-36)
As we now understand, there were no truer words spoken -- for Jesus levelled the playing field between Jew and Gentile, bond and free -- on the cross, inviting the Gentiles (and the dispersed among them - the 12 tribes which are scattered abroad - throughout Pontus, Galatia, Cappadocia, Asia, and Bithynia) to enter into His rest. [Remember afore, the willingness of Jews to turn to idols rather than Him] (James 1:1; Hebrews 4:36; I Peter 1:1)
Even so, the Lord knows our shortcomings and failures. And for this reason, He continues to say (as He did on the last day of the feast) -- "If any man thirst, let him come unto Me and drink; he that believes on Me, as the scripture hath said, out of his belly shall flow rivers of living water." (John 7:17-18)
Meditate on these things this day. Stand in the offering plate.
For context, Jesus knew that the Jews sought to kill Him. In fact, the Jews intentions were well known. This is why Jesus walked/abode longer in Galilee and not in Jewry. His brethren (that did not believe in Him) said unto Jesus that He should depart hence and go into Judaea so that His disciples might also see the works that He did -- for there is no man that does any thing in secret, and He Himself sought to be known openly. These brethren said, "If Thou do these things, shew Thyself to the world." (John 7:1-4)
But Jesus tells them, "My time is not yet come, but your time is alway ready. The world cannot hate you, but Me it hates, because I testify of it, that the works thereof are evil. Go ye up unto this feast: I go not up yet unto this feast, for My time is not yet full come." (John 7:6-8) It kind of reminds us of when the mother of Jesus wanted Jesus to turn the water into wine and Jesus said unto her, "Woman, what have I to do with thee? Mine hour is not yet come." (John 2:4)
After a period of time, Jesus travels up to the feast but not openly (as if it were in secret). As expected, the Jews sought Him out, asking among the people for information concerning His whereabouts. This caused much murmuring among the people for some saw Jesus as a good man, while others believed He deceived the people. Still, no one would speak openly either way -- for fear of the Jews. Now about the midst of the feast, Jesus heads to the temple to teach. This is the point in time when the Jews marvel because this man (to them) does not even know His letters.
Jesus answered them and said, "My doctrine is not Mine but His that sent Me. If any man do His will, he shall know of the doctrine, whether it be of God, or [whether] I speak of Myself; he that speaks of himself seeks his own glory; but he that seeks His glory that sent Him, the same is true and no unrighteousness is in Him. Did not Moses give you the law, and [yet] none of you keeps the law? Why go ye about to kill Me?" (John 7:16-19)
The people answered saying that Jesus hast a devil --"who goeth about to kill Thee?"
Knowing their hearts, Jesus said unto them, "I have done one work and ye all marvel. Moses therefore gave unto you circumcision; (not because it is of Moses, but of the fathers;) and ye on the sabbath day circumcise a man. If a man on the sabbath day receive circumcision, that the law of Moses should be not broken; are ye angry at Me because I have made a man every whit whole on the sabbath day? Judge not according to the appearance, but judge righteous judgement." (John 7:20-24)
This caused some to question whether Jesus was the very Christ -- the Rock which followed the Israelites through the Red Sea? And even more so, whether or not the rulers were aware that Jesus may be the prophesied Christ? "Howbeit ye know this man whence He is, but when Christ comes, no man knows whence He is." (John 7:27)
Then Jesus, again knowing their questions, taught them, saying, "Ye both know Me, and ye know whence I AM, and I AM not come of Myself but He that sent Me is true, whom ye know not. But I know Him: for I AM from Him, and He hath sent Me. Ye shall seek Me and shall not find Me; and where I AM, thither ye cannot come." (John 7:33-34)
Then said the Jews among themselves, "Whither will He go, that we shall not find Him? Will He go unto the dispersed among the Gentiles, and teach the Gentiles? What manner of saying is this that He said, "Ye shall seek me and shall not find Me, and where I AM; thither ye cannot come?" (John 7:35-36)
As we now understand, there were no truer words spoken -- for Jesus levelled the playing field between Jew and Gentile, bond and free -- on the cross, inviting the Gentiles (and the dispersed among them - the 12 tribes which are scattered abroad - throughout Pontus, Galatia, Cappadocia, Asia, and Bithynia) to enter into His rest. [Remember afore, the willingness of Jews to turn to idols rather than Him] (James 1:1; Hebrews 4:36; I Peter 1:1)
Even so, the Lord knows our shortcomings and failures. And for this reason, He continues to say (as He did on the last day of the feast) -- "If any man thirst, let him come unto Me and drink; he that believes on Me, as the scripture hath said, out of his belly shall flow rivers of living water." (John 7:17-18)
Meditate on these things this day. Stand in the offering plate.
Friday, May 1, 2020
Seek Ye First The Kingdom Of God And All His Righteousness - Part 2501
"Sing, O barren, thou that did not bear; break forth into singing, and cry aloud, that thou did not travail with child: for more are the children of the desolate than the children of the married wife," saith the Lord. (Isaiah 54:1)
The Lord has just asked -- who has believed our report, and to whom is the arm of the Lord revealed -- prophesying forward of the soon coming of Jesus as both Lord and Christ. Moreover, informing us (in advance) how He will be wounded for our transgressions and bruised for our iniquities -- the chastisement of our peace being upon Him, when His stripes were sufficient for us to be healed. (Isaiah 53:1-5)
But in order to bring forth this current dispensation of grace, Jesus had to first endure being despised and rejected of men. Despised by His beloved creation (who were made in His image) and yet chose to esteem Him not. As the scriptures state, He was oppressed and afflicted -- yet He opened not His mouth. As the scriptures state, He was brought as a lamb to the slaughter and as a sheep before her shearers is dumb -- and yet again He opened not His mouth.
Moreover, as the scriptures state, He was taken from prison and from judgment and yet, here He is asking -- who shall declare His generation? For He Himself was cut off off out of the land of the living -- the very same heavens and earth He created so that He could walk in the cool of the afternoon with His people (as the Lord God did with Adam).
Yes, the Lord God willingly became our Saviour, making His grave with the wicked and with the rich in His death -- even though He had done no violence and neither was any deceit in His mouth.
But often we consider those who actually crucified Jesus on the cross as the guilty parties. The multitudes who condemned Jesus and likewise willing to overturn a murder conviction -- rather than see Jesus go free.
But aren't we just as guilty as them? Haven't each and every one of us been observers in watching Jesus carry our sorrows -- to the cross, His precious, holy blood shed so that we might have abundant life in Him?
This is why the scriptures state that all have sinned and fallen short of the glory of God. Thankfully, the salvation message does not end there. Rather, the Lord God made a way for us to experience abundant life in Him -- when He became the Lamb of God sacrifice on the cross.
And for those who ask Jesus to become Lord in their life, and continue forward and are water baptized in the precious name of the Lord Jesus, we can be assured that there is therefore now no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit.
"For the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus hath made [us] free from the law of sin and death. For what the law could not do, in that it was weak through the flesh, God sending His own [begotten] Son in the likeness of sinful flesh, and for sin, condemned sin in the flesh; that the righteousness of the law might be fulfilled in us -- who walk not after the flesh but after the Spirit." (Romans 8:1-4)
And when you have been set free, you are free indeed -- to sing and rejoice and to give the Lord God Almighty who rescued us from our own sins -- the veil once and for all torn from heaven to earth -- all our praises forevermore.
Stand in the offering plate.
The Lord has just asked -- who has believed our report, and to whom is the arm of the Lord revealed -- prophesying forward of the soon coming of Jesus as both Lord and Christ. Moreover, informing us (in advance) how He will be wounded for our transgressions and bruised for our iniquities -- the chastisement of our peace being upon Him, when His stripes were sufficient for us to be healed. (Isaiah 53:1-5)
But in order to bring forth this current dispensation of grace, Jesus had to first endure being despised and rejected of men. Despised by His beloved creation (who were made in His image) and yet chose to esteem Him not. As the scriptures state, He was oppressed and afflicted -- yet He opened not His mouth. As the scriptures state, He was brought as a lamb to the slaughter and as a sheep before her shearers is dumb -- and yet again He opened not His mouth.
Moreover, as the scriptures state, He was taken from prison and from judgment and yet, here He is asking -- who shall declare His generation? For He Himself was cut off off out of the land of the living -- the very same heavens and earth He created so that He could walk in the cool of the afternoon with His people (as the Lord God did with Adam).
Yes, the Lord God willingly became our Saviour, making His grave with the wicked and with the rich in His death -- even though He had done no violence and neither was any deceit in His mouth.
But often we consider those who actually crucified Jesus on the cross as the guilty parties. The multitudes who condemned Jesus and likewise willing to overturn a murder conviction -- rather than see Jesus go free.
But aren't we just as guilty as them? Haven't each and every one of us been observers in watching Jesus carry our sorrows -- to the cross, His precious, holy blood shed so that we might have abundant life in Him?
This is why the scriptures state that all have sinned and fallen short of the glory of God. Thankfully, the salvation message does not end there. Rather, the Lord God made a way for us to experience abundant life in Him -- when He became the Lamb of God sacrifice on the cross.
And for those who ask Jesus to become Lord in their life, and continue forward and are water baptized in the precious name of the Lord Jesus, we can be assured that there is therefore now no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit.
"For the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus hath made [us] free from the law of sin and death. For what the law could not do, in that it was weak through the flesh, God sending His own [begotten] Son in the likeness of sinful flesh, and for sin, condemned sin in the flesh; that the righteousness of the law might be fulfilled in us -- who walk not after the flesh but after the Spirit." (Romans 8:1-4)
And when you have been set free, you are free indeed -- to sing and rejoice and to give the Lord God Almighty who rescued us from our own sins -- the veil once and for all torn from heaven to earth -- all our praises forevermore.
Stand in the offering plate.
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