Because Martin Luther nailed his thesis to a chapel door, doesn not mean that the thesis negates or alters the Word of God. Indeed, Martin Luther was bogged down in the quagmire of the church that had its roots in Rome. Why some commentators even suggest that the roman church was coined after Simon in Acts chapter 8. Here, Simon had projected himself as being the great power of God. So persuasive was Simon that the whole town, from the greatest to the least, believed that he was. Note that Simon is not Simon Peter.
However, when Philip arrived in Samaria to evangelize, Simon's trickery was exposed. Simon had viewed the miracles that the Holy Spirit performed upon the people of Samaria. Simon went along with the crowd and even went so far as to be baptised into the name of JESUS The apostles were coming from Jerusalem when they heard that Samaria had embraced the Word of God. And that likewise, they obediently believed being baptised into the name of the Word of God - JESUS.
The apostles upon arriving at Samaria prayed for the believers that they might receive the Holy Spirit! For as yet, they had not received the Holy Spirit. They had believed Philip's preaching concerning the Kingdom of God. In this context, they also believed the name of the ruling and reigning King within God’s Kingdom. As a consequence, they were immediately baptized into the name of JESUS. The apostles prayed that the believers would receive the promised gift of God’s Holy Spirit. Upon the apostles praying and laying their hands upon the believers, the believers received the promised Holy Spirit.
Simon watching saw, that through prayer and the laying on of the apostles' hands the Holy Spirit was given. Simon immediately offered to buy such a gift so that he also would be able to impart the gift of the Holy Spirit by the laying on of his hands. The apostles said to Simon that his money will perish along with him if he should continue thinking that the gift of the Holy Spirit could be bought with money!
But Simon was a businessman who saw an opportunity. He had prior to Philip’s arrival been a very convincing businessman. So now he saw another trick, if you will, to practice with. Thus, in the time period 300-400 AD came forth another gospel. Martin Luther was an active participant in that other gospel.
The apostles said that if this gospel is hid from your understanding, it is hidden simply because of unbelief. And if one continues in their unbelief, they will never be part of the Kingdom of God! Yes, Martin did have a few scales removed from his eyes. To Martin’s spiritual mind was revealed some of the false erroneous teaching propagated by the roman church. However, Martin continued to straddle the fence being neither hot nor cold!
The result? The gospel of God was being withheld from the general populace. But God always has a small remnant - a mariners rope in days of yore had intertwined a scarlet thread of surety that the rope was of good quality. In the believers case the scarlet thread was the Blood of the Holy Spirit within the veins of JESUS -- Guaranteeing that whosoever calls upon the Name of JESUS they by the grace of God shall be saved!
All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness
Wednesday, February 8, 2012
Tuesday, February 7, 2012
THE LORD IS MY SHEPHERD - PART 327
Is the Lord really our Shepherd? Does the Lord really have the pre-eminence in our life? Do we love the Lord our God with our heart, with our soul, with all our mind and with all of our strength? This would appear to be a tall order. But remember the words "In God We Trust." I am what I am today because of God’s grace and mercy!
Sometimes it is good to remember this message in our day to day lives. We are what we are because of God's grace and mercy! Let me tell you a story. Some time ago, we travelled to the United States to attend my grandson's wedding. There were four of us in the vehicle. We get to customs where we presented the border patrol officers with our passports. My wife and I have British passports. Because we have lived in Canada for most of our lives, we also have Canadian permanent resident cards. Suddenly, I hear my name being called. Then we were all ushered into the office.
My wife and I are on the generous side of seventy. In this border station, we were fingerprinted and scanned for the very first time in our lives. If we had not been attending a grandson's wedding, we would have made a U-turn. As such, we were - reluctantly - processed. When the numerous inquiries were complete, we were welcomed to the states. We were even invited to stay there for a period of time if we desired.
Thank you but no thanks, particularly after this experience. Still, I am what I am because of God's grace and mercy! So I said to the young officer, "I have something for you." I pulled out a card. She takes it in her hand reading the words very slowly. Clearly, her facial expressions reflected her inner feelings. Indeed, she responded with feeling in her voice.
"I have ..." she said. On the front face of the card appears the following words. "You have tried everything else, why not give God a chance?" On the backside of the card appears an outline of a plate with words that state “YOUR OFFERING PLATE." I said to the young officer, "stand in the plate and offer yourself to the Lord." She said, "I have."
This is just one example of many that will never ceased to amaze me. In fact, I am always amazed at the situations God takes me into in order to lead a lost sheep to receive His Grace and Mercy. During that day in Chicago, by God’s Grace, a harvest of persons came to partake of His redemptive salvation.
For the entire time I was there, it seemed that God was opening hearts everywhere. Sometimes, I think perhaps I should have stayed longer. But I have Canada, the country that at this moment in time is my harvest field. And even though I am British as alluded to earlier, I also recognize that beyond “Brit’ meaning Covenant, and “ish” meaning man, I am still a recipient of all the benefits awarded by God’s Grace. All the benefits resulting from the Everlasting Covenant of God in JESUS the Christ.
In this context, God has a people, which in reality, are neither Jew nor Gentile. For out of all nations down through the ages, God is calling to Himself a people. A people who formerly were not a people but now because of GOD’S grace and mercy have become members of His bone and flesh. For it was at Calvary that the Lord of glory sacrificed His sinless body to redeem all who call upon His name.
A symbolic cross around one’s neck, even a symbolic hand over one’s heart are all external gestures. But the REAL EXPERIENCE is CHRIST IN ONES HEART. Stand in the Offering Plate today. In God we trust! Peace to all brethren and friends.
Sometimes it is good to remember this message in our day to day lives. We are what we are because of God's grace and mercy! Let me tell you a story. Some time ago, we travelled to the United States to attend my grandson's wedding. There were four of us in the vehicle. We get to customs where we presented the border patrol officers with our passports. My wife and I have British passports. Because we have lived in Canada for most of our lives, we also have Canadian permanent resident cards. Suddenly, I hear my name being called. Then we were all ushered into the office.
My wife and I are on the generous side of seventy. In this border station, we were fingerprinted and scanned for the very first time in our lives. If we had not been attending a grandson's wedding, we would have made a U-turn. As such, we were - reluctantly - processed. When the numerous inquiries were complete, we were welcomed to the states. We were even invited to stay there for a period of time if we desired.
Thank you but no thanks, particularly after this experience. Still, I am what I am because of God's grace and mercy! So I said to the young officer, "I have something for you." I pulled out a card. She takes it in her hand reading the words very slowly. Clearly, her facial expressions reflected her inner feelings. Indeed, she responded with feeling in her voice.
"I have ..." she said. On the front face of the card appears the following words. "You have tried everything else, why not give God a chance?" On the backside of the card appears an outline of a plate with words that state “YOUR OFFERING PLATE." I said to the young officer, "stand in the plate and offer yourself to the Lord." She said, "I have."
This is just one example of many that will never ceased to amaze me. In fact, I am always amazed at the situations God takes me into in order to lead a lost sheep to receive His Grace and Mercy. During that day in Chicago, by God’s Grace, a harvest of persons came to partake of His redemptive salvation.
For the entire time I was there, it seemed that God was opening hearts everywhere. Sometimes, I think perhaps I should have stayed longer. But I have Canada, the country that at this moment in time is my harvest field. And even though I am British as alluded to earlier, I also recognize that beyond “Brit’ meaning Covenant, and “ish” meaning man, I am still a recipient of all the benefits awarded by God’s Grace. All the benefits resulting from the Everlasting Covenant of God in JESUS the Christ.
In this context, God has a people, which in reality, are neither Jew nor Gentile. For out of all nations down through the ages, God is calling to Himself a people. A people who formerly were not a people but now because of GOD’S grace and mercy have become members of His bone and flesh. For it was at Calvary that the Lord of glory sacrificed His sinless body to redeem all who call upon His name.
A symbolic cross around one’s neck, even a symbolic hand over one’s heart are all external gestures. But the REAL EXPERIENCE is CHRIST IN ONES HEART. Stand in the Offering Plate today. In God we trust! Peace to all brethren and friends.
Monday, February 6, 2012
THE LORD IS MY SHEPHERD - PART 326
JESUS responding to a group states that they were being hypocritical. He said this because as capable as they were of discerning the approaching weather conditions, this same group of people were incapable of discerning the signs of the times.
Well, if we consider the signs of the times today as revealle in the scriptures, they would indicate that many stormy clouds are gathering. Everywhere the earth is experiencing unusual and abnormal weather conditions including earthquakes, floods, roaring seas and ocean passageways that open while conversely icecaps melt. But the signs of the time go beyond global warming.
Indeed, it appears that perilous times are at all nations doorstep. Every day the darkness darkens. Men and women's hearts seem to fail. Epidemics of incurable disease and starvation are rampant. One hears of constant wars. Incidents on a global scale with the potential to impact all nations such as the nuclear plants in Japan or Russia’s Chernobyl. Events with catastrophic unforeseen happenings. Or the twin towers in New York unmercifully attacked by religious fanatics. The list is endless!
Wars, wars, and rumours of wars. Violence in the countryside. Violence in the city. Women being treated as if they were of no consequence, being raped and beaten at random. Indeed, abortions conducted repeatedly. In days gone by, such happenings would be referred to as the slaughter of the innocents. The economic collapse. Religious fanatics blowing each other up and upon so doing, they think that they are doing God a service. And then these religious fanatics broadcast to the world that really they are a peace loving religion. In the interim, the United Nations applies bandage solutions.
JESUS said that when you see buds appearing on the trees, then we say summer draws near. Likewise, when you see all this turbulence occurring in the world, a change in affairs is about to occur. From a scriptural perspective, such happenings can be likened to a pregnant woman. The earth being the pregnant woman which bears a child. During the pregnancy, many strange effects occur. The earth initially inhabited by Adam and Eve is now inhabited by billions. But as in pregnancy, the time of delivery of the child approaches. Anxiousness and awareness is accompanied with impending pain forewarning us that delivery is nigh.
Likewise is the happenings which now encompass the world as if it is now time for the earth to bring forth the child which has been developing within the womb of the earth since the dawn of creation. Like real births, there are delivery waters (water a prelude, water always pre-empts birth which can also bring forth life or death). Suddenly birth ushers in the finished product which signifies a new offspring. A new beginning.
But as we know, man has rebelled against God from the garden of Eden. Man’s rebellion in the beginning caused men to be in bondage to a then unknown task master who is so convincingly deceptive that men no longer believe that they were created. Why institutions unfortunately even instruct children into the errors of our unbelief.
Yes, at the end of the day the world as we know it is darkening. The 666 generation is prevalent. But don't worry because JESUS said that all these things must come to pass. Still, it is not the Euro that needs to be saved. It is Europe that needs to be saved. And beyond. Why? Because we are all in it together.
"Come to Me" saith Jesus, "and I will give you rest." Give you JESUS not religion because Jesus is man's only Saviour. Therefore, ask the Saviour into your life. God is a good God. PEACE in JESUS!
Well, if we consider the signs of the times today as revealle in the scriptures, they would indicate that many stormy clouds are gathering. Everywhere the earth is experiencing unusual and abnormal weather conditions including earthquakes, floods, roaring seas and ocean passageways that open while conversely icecaps melt. But the signs of the time go beyond global warming.
Indeed, it appears that perilous times are at all nations doorstep. Every day the darkness darkens. Men and women's hearts seem to fail. Epidemics of incurable disease and starvation are rampant. One hears of constant wars. Incidents on a global scale with the potential to impact all nations such as the nuclear plants in Japan or Russia’s Chernobyl. Events with catastrophic unforeseen happenings. Or the twin towers in New York unmercifully attacked by religious fanatics. The list is endless!
Wars, wars, and rumours of wars. Violence in the countryside. Violence in the city. Women being treated as if they were of no consequence, being raped and beaten at random. Indeed, abortions conducted repeatedly. In days gone by, such happenings would be referred to as the slaughter of the innocents. The economic collapse. Religious fanatics blowing each other up and upon so doing, they think that they are doing God a service. And then these religious fanatics broadcast to the world that really they are a peace loving religion. In the interim, the United Nations applies bandage solutions.
JESUS said that when you see buds appearing on the trees, then we say summer draws near. Likewise, when you see all this turbulence occurring in the world, a change in affairs is about to occur. From a scriptural perspective, such happenings can be likened to a pregnant woman. The earth being the pregnant woman which bears a child. During the pregnancy, many strange effects occur. The earth initially inhabited by Adam and Eve is now inhabited by billions. But as in pregnancy, the time of delivery of the child approaches. Anxiousness and awareness is accompanied with impending pain forewarning us that delivery is nigh.
Likewise is the happenings which now encompass the world as if it is now time for the earth to bring forth the child which has been developing within the womb of the earth since the dawn of creation. Like real births, there are delivery waters (water a prelude, water always pre-empts birth which can also bring forth life or death). Suddenly birth ushers in the finished product which signifies a new offspring. A new beginning.
But as we know, man has rebelled against God from the garden of Eden. Man’s rebellion in the beginning caused men to be in bondage to a then unknown task master who is so convincingly deceptive that men no longer believe that they were created. Why institutions unfortunately even instruct children into the errors of our unbelief.
Yes, at the end of the day the world as we know it is darkening. The 666 generation is prevalent. But don't worry because JESUS said that all these things must come to pass. Still, it is not the Euro that needs to be saved. It is Europe that needs to be saved. And beyond. Why? Because we are all in it together.
"Come to Me" saith Jesus, "and I will give you rest." Give you JESUS not religion because Jesus is man's only Saviour. Therefore, ask the Saviour into your life. God is a good God. PEACE in JESUS!
Sunday, February 5, 2012
THE LORD IS MY SHEPHERD - PART 325
I KNOW IN WHOM I HAVE BELIEVED AND I AM PERSUADED THAT HE CAN IS FULLY ABLE TO KEEP ME. The question then is this. Do you know Jesus who is the Almighty God? Are you equally persuaded that God is able?(Revelations 1:9)
In the Bible, JESUS said to some religious folks that they searched the scriptures, and by so doing, thought they were obtaining eternal life. But as He pointed out, eternal life is not to be found by only one reading. Indeed, it is the scriptures that testify of me and yet Jesus said, you will not come to me. "For if you were to actively believe in me, then you would have called upon ME. I would come to you and imparted unto you My Gift of Eternal Life.
We know this because JESUS is the Author of the Scriptures. In the scriptures, the volumes He said are written of Him/me. However, the natural minded person does not understand the scriptures for the scriptures reveal that in the mind of a naturally minded man, the scriptures appear as foolishness! But believing upon JESUS is the key to understanding the scriptures. Belief in JESUS opens the natural man‘s mind to a fuller and more complete understanding.
JESUS said to a naturally minded man, "You must be born again." He did so for a reason. For without being born again, said Jesus, you cannot understand the scriptures pertaining to the Kingdom of God. JESUS says further that "Except a man be born again of water and of the Spirit, a man cannot enter into the Kingdom of God.
JESUS expands the conversation by saying to this naturally minded man that a fleshly mind cannot understand spiritual thoughts. Therefore, understand the need for the natural mind to be born again. And search the scriptures.
There you will discover that JESUS is the embodiment of the Word of God. JESUS disciples said, "Where else can we go? You Lord alone have the Words of eternal life." And the results of this message? Ordinary people pressed toward JESUS to hear the Word of God!
Indeed, JESUS is the Word of God manifest in the flesh. JESUS is not a separate being. No sir. JESUS is God’s own Word and if JESUS be God’s own Word, then JESUS cannot be another person. Otherwise, God would be without His own Word and such cannot be. For it is written that, “In the beginning was the Word and the Word was with God and the Word was God!” The very same Word that was with God was manifest in the flesh. JESUS is the manifestation of God’s Word veiled in flesh.
Indeed, JESUS is the GOD who has by Himself created all things, even as it is written - He (GOD) was in the world and the world was made by Him! Certainly, as we read in the scriptures, the early believers believed that JESUS was God! The Holy Spirit of God was in the man JESUS! JESUS said, that before Abraham ever was I AM, inferring that He was the I AM. In fact, how many times did JESUS say that He is the I AM, or I Am the Way, the Truth and the Life.
Yes, JESUS is the unseen Spirit of God, now to be seen in the face of JESUS the Christ! For if you have seen ME -- JESUS -- then you have seen the Father. All the FULNESS of the GODHEAD DWELLS BODILY IN JESUS! Peace to all in Jesus!
In the Bible, JESUS said to some religious folks that they searched the scriptures, and by so doing, thought they were obtaining eternal life. But as He pointed out, eternal life is not to be found by only one reading. Indeed, it is the scriptures that testify of me and yet Jesus said, you will not come to me. "For if you were to actively believe in me, then you would have called upon ME. I would come to you and imparted unto you My Gift of Eternal Life.
We know this because JESUS is the Author of the Scriptures. In the scriptures, the volumes He said are written of Him/me. However, the natural minded person does not understand the scriptures for the scriptures reveal that in the mind of a naturally minded man, the scriptures appear as foolishness! But believing upon JESUS is the key to understanding the scriptures. Belief in JESUS opens the natural man‘s mind to a fuller and more complete understanding.
JESUS said to a naturally minded man, "You must be born again." He did so for a reason. For without being born again, said Jesus, you cannot understand the scriptures pertaining to the Kingdom of God. JESUS says further that "Except a man be born again of water and of the Spirit, a man cannot enter into the Kingdom of God.
JESUS expands the conversation by saying to this naturally minded man that a fleshly mind cannot understand spiritual thoughts. Therefore, understand the need for the natural mind to be born again. And search the scriptures.
There you will discover that JESUS is the embodiment of the Word of God. JESUS disciples said, "Where else can we go? You Lord alone have the Words of eternal life." And the results of this message? Ordinary people pressed toward JESUS to hear the Word of God!
Indeed, JESUS is the Word of God manifest in the flesh. JESUS is not a separate being. No sir. JESUS is God’s own Word and if JESUS be God’s own Word, then JESUS cannot be another person. Otherwise, God would be without His own Word and such cannot be. For it is written that, “In the beginning was the Word and the Word was with God and the Word was God!” The very same Word that was with God was manifest in the flesh. JESUS is the manifestation of God’s Word veiled in flesh.
Indeed, JESUS is the GOD who has by Himself created all things, even as it is written - He (GOD) was in the world and the world was made by Him! Certainly, as we read in the scriptures, the early believers believed that JESUS was God! The Holy Spirit of God was in the man JESUS! JESUS said, that before Abraham ever was I AM, inferring that He was the I AM. In fact, how many times did JESUS say that He is the I AM, or I Am the Way, the Truth and the Life.
Yes, JESUS is the unseen Spirit of God, now to be seen in the face of JESUS the Christ! For if you have seen ME -- JESUS -- then you have seen the Father. All the FULNESS of the GODHEAD DWELLS BODILY IN JESUS! Peace to all in Jesus!
Saturday, February 4, 2012
THE LORD IS MY SHEPHERD - PART 324
God's promises are true! Indeed, His grace and mercy provide a way for us even during those times when it appears there is no way. A perfect example of God's promise to us is found in the scriptures when JESUS said to His disciples, "Cast your net on the right side of the ship." His disciples replied by saying, "Master, we have toiled all night and caught nothing. Nevertheless, because you have so said Lord, we will do so." And the result? Yes! Wow! Fish! Fish were everywhere. In fact, there were more fish than the disciples could handle. Their nets bulging.
The reason for this example is clear. Right now, the world is in need of harvest. Why? Because the world is full of lost souls looking for hope. Searching for the kind of peace that only God's grace and mercy can give. Desiring a reason to believe that the same God that created men and women cared enough to become a man and die for them.
It is for this reason that Jesus used an analogy about the man that sows the seed - preaches the Word - while another man reaps the harvest. He used the example of farming to teach us about the harvest that is ripe. In our world, God provides the SEED so that the farmhand can sow. Then with expectancy the farmer awaits. The rain falls, the sun shines, and the barren field in time brings forth life. The farmhand’s part was to plough the field, sow the seed and wait.
Likewise, God’s loving faithfulness toward man brings forth from a little shelled seed sustenance! Why? Because JESUS is the Lord of the harvest. The unseen Spirit of God has sown a SEED of Life. The Holy Spirit planted a life SEED into a young virgin body. Within that young girl’s body, the SEED life was nurtured and cared for. That Holy spirit implanted SEED took nine months in the womb before harvest.
So from that SEED of the Spirit of God came forth IMMANUEL translated as GOD with us! But the child did not look as if He were God. In fact, the child appeared as any other male child. Still, the Spirit of God had prophetically foretold of the coming of the Messiah (the Christ of God) and now, the prophecies were happening. Heavenly and earthly happenings!
Yes, as the scriptures had foretold in the Old Testament, "A child is born, a Son is given, the government of the Kingdom of God shall be upon His shoulders, and the child will be proclaimed and called Wonderful - Counsellor - Mighty God - Everlasting Father - Prince of Peace!"
The name of the child who is born to be Saviour was announced by an angel to be JESUS! The shepherds came and so did the wise men offering gifts. Upon seeing Jesus, they worshiped the young child. Yes, this child was the child of God’s predetermined will. And in this child did all the fullness of God’s predetermined will abide!
The Spirit Life within JESUS was the unchangeable Word of God! JESUS was the embodiment of God’s WORD for JESUS is the very Word that was with God, and the very same Word that was God. JESUS is the very God who made the world, and all that is therein. Apart from JESUS there is nothing!
Man’s heart is the ground into which the SEED of TRUTH seeks. This the same SEED that is spoken to all men through the mouth of JESUS in whom alone does the Living Word of God dwell. For it is written,, "In JESUS dwells all the fullness of the Godhead bodily. The SEED WORD spoken by JESUS in the scriptures is endeavouring to root in men and women today.
Yes, JESUS came forth in fleshly fashion as one of Abraham descendants. Only in fashion. JESUS was the promised SEED of the Holy Spirit in which SEED all believing nations shall be blessed. Conversely, the nations that do not receive God in Christ shall not prosper. Therefore, brethren, preach JESUS, the Prince of Peace to those who seek peace. Tell them why God loved them so much. Or give them a Bible. Why? Because the entrance of God’s Word gives proper understanding!
The reason for this example is clear. Right now, the world is in need of harvest. Why? Because the world is full of lost souls looking for hope. Searching for the kind of peace that only God's grace and mercy can give. Desiring a reason to believe that the same God that created men and women cared enough to become a man and die for them.
It is for this reason that Jesus used an analogy about the man that sows the seed - preaches the Word - while another man reaps the harvest. He used the example of farming to teach us about the harvest that is ripe. In our world, God provides the SEED so that the farmhand can sow. Then with expectancy the farmer awaits. The rain falls, the sun shines, and the barren field in time brings forth life. The farmhand’s part was to plough the field, sow the seed and wait.
Likewise, God’s loving faithfulness toward man brings forth from a little shelled seed sustenance! Why? Because JESUS is the Lord of the harvest. The unseen Spirit of God has sown a SEED of Life. The Holy Spirit planted a life SEED into a young virgin body. Within that young girl’s body, the SEED life was nurtured and cared for. That Holy spirit implanted SEED took nine months in the womb before harvest.
So from that SEED of the Spirit of God came forth IMMANUEL translated as GOD with us! But the child did not look as if He were God. In fact, the child appeared as any other male child. Still, the Spirit of God had prophetically foretold of the coming of the Messiah (the Christ of God) and now, the prophecies were happening. Heavenly and earthly happenings!
Yes, as the scriptures had foretold in the Old Testament, "A child is born, a Son is given, the government of the Kingdom of God shall be upon His shoulders, and the child will be proclaimed and called Wonderful - Counsellor - Mighty God - Everlasting Father - Prince of Peace!"
The name of the child who is born to be Saviour was announced by an angel to be JESUS! The shepherds came and so did the wise men offering gifts. Upon seeing Jesus, they worshiped the young child. Yes, this child was the child of God’s predetermined will. And in this child did all the fullness of God’s predetermined will abide!
The Spirit Life within JESUS was the unchangeable Word of God! JESUS was the embodiment of God’s WORD for JESUS is the very Word that was with God, and the very same Word that was God. JESUS is the very God who made the world, and all that is therein. Apart from JESUS there is nothing!
Man’s heart is the ground into which the SEED of TRUTH seeks. This the same SEED that is spoken to all men through the mouth of JESUS in whom alone does the Living Word of God dwell. For it is written,, "In JESUS dwells all the fullness of the Godhead bodily. The SEED WORD spoken by JESUS in the scriptures is endeavouring to root in men and women today.
Yes, JESUS came forth in fleshly fashion as one of Abraham descendants. Only in fashion. JESUS was the promised SEED of the Holy Spirit in which SEED all believing nations shall be blessed. Conversely, the nations that do not receive God in Christ shall not prosper. Therefore, brethren, preach JESUS, the Prince of Peace to those who seek peace. Tell them why God loved them so much. Or give them a Bible. Why? Because the entrance of God’s Word gives proper understanding!
Friday, February 3, 2012
THE LORD IS MY SHEPHERD - PART 323
The Word of God was veiled in flesh. The very same Living Word that was with and in God from the beginning has been manifested in the flesh. For in the beginning was the Word. But without the Word of God, no one would be capable of even understanding how God made all things after the counsel of His own will!
In other words, JESUS fleshly manifestation - being the purposed counsel of God - came forth as the revealed and final counselled Word of God. This same God counselled with Himself in the beginning. In revealing JESUS as the manifestation of the counselled Word of God, JESUS became the counselled Word of God with us
Further, JESUS being the embodiment of the counselled Words of eternal life - GOD Himself was now manifest in a veil of flesh. Yes, JESUS was and is the counselled SEED of the Holy Spirit! God‘s blood, Word and Life flowing in JESUS' veins, being the counselled eternal life Words of His Father, the Spirit of God.
JESUS, the counselled Word of God being now conceived by the Holy Spirit, into the womb of a surrogate mother named Mary! JESUS, being the very same counselled Word of God, that made all things. JESUS, the very same counselled Word of God who by His counselled spiritual Word brings forth what we now hear and see.
So while the Church that started in Rome in 300/400 AD asserts that they are the real thing, the devil is once again permitted to stay true to the title assigned to him by Jesus in the scriptures. That is, the father of all lies who instills institutions to continue with their anvil of error.
But in spite of traditional religious messaging, God is not three distinct and separate persons. Nor is it right that just because institutions sit a man upon a throne in man-made temples and assert that this man is the vicar of Christ or that their religion is the apostolic church of God does not make it so.
For if one searches the written Word, the true light of truth would enlighten them as a dove descending from heaven. The scales of darkness previously upon their eyes would disappear by applying the eye salve of the glorious light of the Gospel of God. The gospel that is seen in the face of JESUS the Christ. It would be His Light that would shine upon them. His light being much brighter than even the noon day sun, would enlighten them
So, as in the days of the dawn of the reformation, so is the world today. And similarly when the rays of light endeavour to shine through a heavily religious darkened sky, so will the scriptural message that states, “By grace are you saved through faith. Salvation is not of works." Then and only then will we realize that there is only one mediator. That likewise, there is no salvation in any other than JESUS.
It will also be then that the quagmire of religious error that darkens the souls of many will be dealt a severe blow from the enlightenment of the Word of God. The candle that was lit and dimmed in the past - it will be the partial light of this small candle that will spread the gospel like wildfire.
Yes, as the scriptures state, the SEED of the Word of God's offspring are blessed. And similarly, the sceptre of God’s righteousness in JESUS the Christ will overpower the erroneous teachings of the so-called church fathers. And as a consequence, we will continue by God’s grace to preach peace in JESUS name!
In other words, JESUS fleshly manifestation - being the purposed counsel of God - came forth as the revealed and final counselled Word of God. This same God counselled with Himself in the beginning. In revealing JESUS as the manifestation of the counselled Word of God, JESUS became the counselled Word of God with us
Further, JESUS being the embodiment of the counselled Words of eternal life - GOD Himself was now manifest in a veil of flesh. Yes, JESUS was and is the counselled SEED of the Holy Spirit! God‘s blood, Word and Life flowing in JESUS' veins, being the counselled eternal life Words of His Father, the Spirit of God.
JESUS, the counselled Word of God being now conceived by the Holy Spirit, into the womb of a surrogate mother named Mary! JESUS, being the very same counselled Word of God, that made all things. JESUS, the very same counselled Word of God who by His counselled spiritual Word brings forth what we now hear and see.
So while the Church that started in Rome in 300/400 AD asserts that they are the real thing, the devil is once again permitted to stay true to the title assigned to him by Jesus in the scriptures. That is, the father of all lies who instills institutions to continue with their anvil of error.
But in spite of traditional religious messaging, God is not three distinct and separate persons. Nor is it right that just because institutions sit a man upon a throne in man-made temples and assert that this man is the vicar of Christ or that their religion is the apostolic church of God does not make it so.
For if one searches the written Word, the true light of truth would enlighten them as a dove descending from heaven. The scales of darkness previously upon their eyes would disappear by applying the eye salve of the glorious light of the Gospel of God. The gospel that is seen in the face of JESUS the Christ. It would be His Light that would shine upon them. His light being much brighter than even the noon day sun, would enlighten them
So, as in the days of the dawn of the reformation, so is the world today. And similarly when the rays of light endeavour to shine through a heavily religious darkened sky, so will the scriptural message that states, “By grace are you saved through faith. Salvation is not of works." Then and only then will we realize that there is only one mediator. That likewise, there is no salvation in any other than JESUS.
It will also be then that the quagmire of religious error that darkens the souls of many will be dealt a severe blow from the enlightenment of the Word of God. The candle that was lit and dimmed in the past - it will be the partial light of this small candle that will spread the gospel like wildfire.
Yes, as the scriptures state, the SEED of the Word of God's offspring are blessed. And similarly, the sceptre of God’s righteousness in JESUS the Christ will overpower the erroneous teachings of the so-called church fathers. And as a consequence, we will continue by God’s grace to preach peace in JESUS name!
THE LORD IS MY SHEPHERD - PART 322
In the beginning was the WORD, and the WORD was with GOD, and the WORD was GOD. (John 1:1-18) The same WORD was in the beginning with GOD. All things were made by Him (GOD’S WORD) and without Him (GOD’S WORD) was not any thing made that was made. Indeed, He, GOD’S WORD was in the world and the world was made by Him (GOD‘S WORD) and the world did not know Him (GOD’S WORD).
In fact, He even came unto His own but His own received Him not. (John 1:10-11)
But as we read in the scriptures, GOD’S WORD was made (VEILED) in flesh and dwelt among us. As a consequence, we beheld His (GOD’S WORD) glory. Yes, GOD’S WORD - glory. GOD’S WORD appearing as the only begotten of the Father full of grace and truth. No man has seen God at any time except the only begotten Son which is in the bosom (INNERMOST BEING) of the Father. He -- GOD’S WORD has declared Him GOD.
"God was manifest in the flesh." (I Timothy 3:16)
Moreover, when John the baptist sees JESUS coming toward him, he says, "Behold the LAMB of GOD who takes away the sin of the world." This is He (GOD’S WORD) of whom I have spoken, After me comes a man (GOD’S WORD) which (HE) is preferred before me: for He (GOD”S WORD) existed before me.
"I indeed baptize you with water unto repentance; but He that cometh after me is mightier than I, whose shoes I am not worthy to bear. He shall baptize you with the Holy Ghost and with fire." (Matthew 3:11)
Note that John did not know Him (GOD‘S WORD) beforehand. All he knew was that He (GOD’S WORD) should be made manifest to Israel. Therefore, he came baptizing with water, "the voice of one crying in the wilderness -- prepare ye the way of the Lord -- make His paths straight." (Matthew 3:1-17)
Further, John bare record of what he saw when Jesus was baptized. (GOD’S) Spirit descending from heaven like a dove. And it abode upon Him. Yes, GOD’S WORD. But John did not know Him (GOD‘S WORD), until the heavens opened unto Him, and He saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove, and lightning upon Him, and lo a voice from heaven saying, "This is My beloved Son in whom I am well pleased." (Matthew 3:16-17)
Still, it was revealed to John that upon the Lamb of God he should see (GOD’S) Spirit descending on and remaining on the same He (GOD’S WORD). Yes, John witnessed with his own eyes, and bear record that this man is indeed the Son of God.
JESUS' birth record provides the same evidence. His mother Mary was engaged to Joseph but before they came together Mary was found with child - a child of the Holy Ghost. The angel of the LORD appeared to Joseph in a dream saying, "Joseph, take unto you Mary for that which is conceived in her is of the Holy Ghost."
"Behold, a virgin shall be with child, and shall bring forth a Son, and they shall call His name Emmanuel, which being interpreted is -- God with us." (Matthew 1:21-23)
A virgin shall be with child and shall bring forth a Son and they shall call His name EMMANUEL, which being interpreted is GOD’S WORD with us. Why is this important? Because WITHOUT [the] WORD, it is impossible even to theorize how this world even came to be. But as we now know -- for our sake -- God’s Word was veiled in flesh to communicate with us. To sanctify us. To bring us salvation.
"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)
"One Lord, One faith, One baptism. One God and Father of all, who is above all, and through all, and in you all." (Ephesians 4:5-6) "But to us one God the Father of whom are all things and we in Him and one Lord Jesus Christ by whom are all things and we by Him." (I Corinthians 8:5-6)
Our salvation comes from the sacrifice of our heavenly Father, who loved us enough to be made as one of us so that He who knew no sin could wash us clean from the holy blood He shed on the cross for you and I. Indeed, there is no other.
"For unto us a child is born. Unto us a Son is given, and the government shall be upon His shoulder, and His name shall be called Wonderful, Counselor, the Mighty God, the Everlasting Father, the Prince of Peace." (Isaiah 9:6)
Yes, the Lord did not only send a word to His prophets. He also sent a WORD for us in this current dispensation of grace. And the WORD? Jesus -- the one and only King of kings and Lord of lords who invites us all to come and dine at His wedding feast. Hear His call on your life today. Reach out and ask for His forgiveness. Be baptized in the precious name of the Lord Jesus Christ, so that you too can receive the gift of the Holy Ghost. (Acts 2:37-42) Diligently study His Word, and in particular, the new testament which is intended to teach us what we need to know in this time period in which we live.
Praise Him every day for His goodness and mercy ... JESUS -- THE WORD OF GOD VEILED IN FLESH!
In fact, He even came unto His own but His own received Him not. (John 1:10-11)
But as we read in the scriptures, GOD’S WORD was made (VEILED) in flesh and dwelt among us. As a consequence, we beheld His (GOD’S WORD) glory. Yes, GOD’S WORD - glory. GOD’S WORD appearing as the only begotten of the Father full of grace and truth. No man has seen God at any time except the only begotten Son which is in the bosom (INNERMOST BEING) of the Father. He -- GOD’S WORD has declared Him GOD.
"God was manifest in the flesh." (I Timothy 3:16)
Moreover, when John the baptist sees JESUS coming toward him, he says, "Behold the LAMB of GOD who takes away the sin of the world." This is He (GOD’S WORD) of whom I have spoken, After me comes a man (GOD’S WORD) which (HE) is preferred before me: for He (GOD”S WORD) existed before me.
"I indeed baptize you with water unto repentance; but He that cometh after me is mightier than I, whose shoes I am not worthy to bear. He shall baptize you with the Holy Ghost and with fire." (Matthew 3:11)
Note that John did not know Him (GOD‘S WORD) beforehand. All he knew was that He (GOD’S WORD) should be made manifest to Israel. Therefore, he came baptizing with water, "the voice of one crying in the wilderness -- prepare ye the way of the Lord -- make His paths straight." (Matthew 3:1-17)
Further, John bare record of what he saw when Jesus was baptized. (GOD’S) Spirit descending from heaven like a dove. And it abode upon Him. Yes, GOD’S WORD. But John did not know Him (GOD‘S WORD), until the heavens opened unto Him, and He saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove, and lightning upon Him, and lo a voice from heaven saying, "This is My beloved Son in whom I am well pleased." (Matthew 3:16-17)
Still, it was revealed to John that upon the Lamb of God he should see (GOD’S) Spirit descending on and remaining on the same He (GOD’S WORD). Yes, John witnessed with his own eyes, and bear record that this man is indeed the Son of God.
JESUS' birth record provides the same evidence. His mother Mary was engaged to Joseph but before they came together Mary was found with child - a child of the Holy Ghost. The angel of the LORD appeared to Joseph in a dream saying, "Joseph, take unto you Mary for that which is conceived in her is of the Holy Ghost."
"Behold, a virgin shall be with child, and shall bring forth a Son, and they shall call His name Emmanuel, which being interpreted is -- God with us." (Matthew 1:21-23)
A virgin shall be with child and shall bring forth a Son and they shall call His name EMMANUEL, which being interpreted is GOD’S WORD with us. Why is this important? Because WITHOUT [the] WORD, it is impossible even to theorize how this world even came to be. But as we now know -- for our sake -- God’s Word was veiled in flesh to communicate with us. To sanctify us. To bring us salvation.
"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)
"One Lord, One faith, One baptism. One God and Father of all, who is above all, and through all, and in you all." (Ephesians 4:5-6) "But to us one God the Father of whom are all things and we in Him and one Lord Jesus Christ by whom are all things and we by Him." (I Corinthians 8:5-6)
Our salvation comes from the sacrifice of our heavenly Father, who loved us enough to be made as one of us so that He who knew no sin could wash us clean from the holy blood He shed on the cross for you and I. Indeed, there is no other.
"For unto us a child is born. Unto us a Son is given, and the government shall be upon His shoulder, and His name shall be called Wonderful, Counselor, the Mighty God, the Everlasting Father, the Prince of Peace." (Isaiah 9:6)
Yes, the Lord did not only send a word to His prophets. He also sent a WORD for us in this current dispensation of grace. And the WORD? Jesus -- the one and only King of kings and Lord of lords who invites us all to come and dine at His wedding feast. Hear His call on your life today. Reach out and ask for His forgiveness. Be baptized in the precious name of the Lord Jesus Christ, so that you too can receive the gift of the Holy Ghost. (Acts 2:37-42) Diligently study His Word, and in particular, the new testament which is intended to teach us what we need to know in this time period in which we live.
Praise Him every day for His goodness and mercy ... JESUS -- THE WORD OF GOD VEILED IN FLESH!
Thursday, February 2, 2012
THE LORD IS MY SHEPHERD - PART 321
So what if some do not believe the scriptures. Shall their unbelief make our faith in God ineffective? Oh death where is your sting? Oh grave where is your victory? For the promised SEED of the Holy Spirit coming forth from a woman has made us more than conquerors!
Yes, JESUS took upon Himself all of our sin and iniquities. As it is written, He who knew no sin became sin so that we through His sacrificial death on a cruel roman cross would by God’s grace be brought again to a lively hope -- a hope and assurance that has made us more than conquerors in life and death -- through a vibrant living faith in God our Saviour!
How do we know this? JESUS put Himself in our place! It was His everlasting love for us that caused JESUS to endure the cross and despise the shame. Yes, JESUS was nailed to the cross for you and me.
Years I spent in vanity and pride,
Caring not my Lord was crucified,
Knowing not it was for me He died
On Calvary.
Mercy there was great, and grace was free;
Pardon there was multiplied to me;
There my burdened soul found liberty,
At Calvary.
By God's Word at last my sin I learned;
Then I trembled at the love I'd spurned,
Till my guilty soul imploring turned
To Calvary.
Now I've given to Jesus everything,
Now I gladly own Him as my King,
Now my ramsoned soul can only sing
Of Calvary.
Oh, the love that drew salvation's plan!
Oh, the grace that brought it down to man!
Oh, the mighty gulf that God did span
At Calvary!
God descended so that you and I can by the grace and mercy of God ascend. Do not judge yourself unworthy of eternal life God stretched out His arms so that we could rest in His arms. So that He could take our burdens and lighten our load. All we have to do is RETURN TO ME - JESUS - FOR I HAVE REDEEMED YOU! Peace to all in JESUS!
Yes, JESUS took upon Himself all of our sin and iniquities. As it is written, He who knew no sin became sin so that we through His sacrificial death on a cruel roman cross would by God’s grace be brought again to a lively hope -- a hope and assurance that has made us more than conquerors in life and death -- through a vibrant living faith in God our Saviour!
How do we know this? JESUS put Himself in our place! It was His everlasting love for us that caused JESUS to endure the cross and despise the shame. Yes, JESUS was nailed to the cross for you and me.
Years I spent in vanity and pride,
Caring not my Lord was crucified,
Knowing not it was for me He died
On Calvary.
Mercy there was great, and grace was free;
Pardon there was multiplied to me;
There my burdened soul found liberty,
At Calvary.
By God's Word at last my sin I learned;
Then I trembled at the love I'd spurned,
Till my guilty soul imploring turned
To Calvary.
Now I've given to Jesus everything,
Now I gladly own Him as my King,
Now my ramsoned soul can only sing
Of Calvary.
Oh, the love that drew salvation's plan!
Oh, the grace that brought it down to man!
Oh, the mighty gulf that God did span
At Calvary!
God descended so that you and I can by the grace and mercy of God ascend. Do not judge yourself unworthy of eternal life God stretched out His arms so that we could rest in His arms. So that He could take our burdens and lighten our load. All we have to do is RETURN TO ME - JESUS - FOR I HAVE REDEEMED YOU! Peace to all in JESUS!
Wednesday, February 1, 2012
THE LORD IS MY SHEPHERD - PART 320
Every house is built with human intervention but He that built all things, He is God! Admittedly, as we recognize from reading the Old Testament scriptures, Moses was faithful in his house as a servant. But Christ was not a servant. Rather, Christ is the builder of the house. For it is written that all things that were made by Him and for Him is the reason why all things today exist. Indeed, it was JESUS - God Himself as a Son - who came as a son over His own house.
In this context, JESUS veiled Himself in flesh, becoming man’s only means of salvation. As a consequence, we were redeemed from the wilderness of sin by Christ (humanity) of God. The Christ being God Himself as a Son as it is written in the scriptures -- JESUS was the child of the Holy Spirit, and in JESUS' veins did flow the blood of the Spirit of God. For it was God Himself as a Son who was manifest in the world to destroy the works of the devil.
Therefore, JESUS is the head of the church which is His body. For it was through the sacrificial death of JESUS -- the only begotten Son of God -- offering Himself willingly at Calvary that we, Adam’s sin prone offspring can now by the grace of God become recipients of the free gift of redemption. For those who might not know, redemption opens the door for sinful men and/or women to be born again.
Born again, not of corruptible things such as silver or gold but born again through faith in the finished work of God’s redemptive plan, revealed in the life of God in Christ. He - God laid down His pure, holy, undefiled life as full payment for Adam’s disobedience. For here we see that God took upon Himself all of our sin so that we could become the recipients of His righteousness.
This result was accomplished because Christ was willing to imbue unto Himself our sin. In other words, His body became accursed for us. And we the guilty cursed sinful party are now declared of God to be whiter than the driven snow. For indeed it was God who laid down His life once and once for all. Therefore, there is now no condemnation to all who have returned back to God through the door -- which door is the sacrificed death of JESUS the Lord of Glory -- the only head of the Church!
Thus, one cannot put another capping stone on the Body of the Church. According to the scriptures, we are members of His body and of His flesh. We are God's purchased possession! And even as the Holy Spirit indwelt the man JESUS the Christ, even so now, we are the body of the Christ in which body the Spirit of God is pleased to dwell!
But around the time of 300-400 AD, another church institution arose, asserting that this new church is the true church. However, we now know this not to be true. We also know that the devil was a liar from the beginning of time for the anti-Christ church comes forth from Christ's church. As it is written, "They (anti-Christ) went out from us because they were not of us."
Interesting terminology - they went out from us - used in the scriptures so that it may be made manifest to one and all that "they were not of us." For if they had been of us, they would not have gone out from us.
Therefore, the head of God’s church is no other than God Himself as a Son. It is written, "My Glory I will not give to another." God has glorified His Son JESUS. Let all the angels of God worship Him. To us is the Word of this salvation sent! Peace!
In this context, JESUS veiled Himself in flesh, becoming man’s only means of salvation. As a consequence, we were redeemed from the wilderness of sin by Christ (humanity) of God. The Christ being God Himself as a Son as it is written in the scriptures -- JESUS was the child of the Holy Spirit, and in JESUS' veins did flow the blood of the Spirit of God. For it was God Himself as a Son who was manifest in the world to destroy the works of the devil.
Therefore, JESUS is the head of the church which is His body. For it was through the sacrificial death of JESUS -- the only begotten Son of God -- offering Himself willingly at Calvary that we, Adam’s sin prone offspring can now by the grace of God become recipients of the free gift of redemption. For those who might not know, redemption opens the door for sinful men and/or women to be born again.
Born again, not of corruptible things such as silver or gold but born again through faith in the finished work of God’s redemptive plan, revealed in the life of God in Christ. He - God laid down His pure, holy, undefiled life as full payment for Adam’s disobedience. For here we see that God took upon Himself all of our sin so that we could become the recipients of His righteousness.
This result was accomplished because Christ was willing to imbue unto Himself our sin. In other words, His body became accursed for us. And we the guilty cursed sinful party are now declared of God to be whiter than the driven snow. For indeed it was God who laid down His life once and once for all. Therefore, there is now no condemnation to all who have returned back to God through the door -- which door is the sacrificed death of JESUS the Lord of Glory -- the only head of the Church!
Thus, one cannot put another capping stone on the Body of the Church. According to the scriptures, we are members of His body and of His flesh. We are God's purchased possession! And even as the Holy Spirit indwelt the man JESUS the Christ, even so now, we are the body of the Christ in which body the Spirit of God is pleased to dwell!
But around the time of 300-400 AD, another church institution arose, asserting that this new church is the true church. However, we now know this not to be true. We also know that the devil was a liar from the beginning of time for the anti-Christ church comes forth from Christ's church. As it is written, "They (anti-Christ) went out from us because they were not of us."
Interesting terminology - they went out from us - used in the scriptures so that it may be made manifest to one and all that "they were not of us." For if they had been of us, they would not have gone out from us.
Therefore, the head of God’s church is no other than God Himself as a Son. It is written, "My Glory I will not give to another." God has glorified His Son JESUS. Let all the angels of God worship Him. To us is the Word of this salvation sent! Peace!
THE LORD IS MY SHEPHERD - PART 319
The stone which the builders rejected has become the head cornerstone. For other foundations can no man lay other than that foundation which is laid already -- the foundation being none other than the LORD JESUS the Christ. The foundation upon which this building is being constructed being the Word of God, which is now being spoken by the Apostles and prophets afore chosen of God to be His witnesses to the uttermost parts of the earth.
Yes, we speak of this glorious temple which even today remains under construction. The temple to which we refer is God’s building. The building that God designed and God furnishes. God Himself being the mastermind - the creator! Indeed, God does all things according to the purpose of His own will. This glorious temple is the spiritual body of JESUS the Christ.
As it is written -- you and I are the body of Christ, chosen of God being jointly and fitly framed together as a body while constantly increasing in number -- until the fullness of the measure of the stature of Christ is attained!
Inside this glorious temple of the Holy Spirit, there are no spots or wrinkles or in fact any blemishes. Further, within this temple the Spirit of God is praised by the redeemed members who have been filled (Spirit baptism) with the same Spirit that was in the man JESUS. The promised Holy Spirit being received by them after repenting and being baptized into the name of JESUS for the remission of all their sins - likewise then did JESUS breath upon them His spiritual breath.
The other good news is that this spiritual temple requires no man made cleansing. For what God has cleansed, let no man call common or unclean. As it is written, the blood of JESUS the Christ - God’s Son cleanses us from all sin. This is the God in whom we trust.
Unfortunately, many church institutions have abandoned the original God-given faith and scriptural teachings that were once delivered to believers. Some might even suggest that we have forsaken the fountain of life! Instead, the church fathers have rejected the capping stone in 300/400 AD, even as the Jews had previously. In the case of the latter, the Jews had said, "We will not have this man (JESUS) rule over us."
So God cut them off and the Gentiles were grafted in. Even today, there are Jews who still do not understand that they crucified the Lord of glory. This misunderstanding even though God provided ample opportunity to the Jews to receive God’s forgiveness. But rather than repent, the scriptures state that the Jews hardened their heart, becoming uncircumcised in their hearts in the days and centuries that followed.
What was the issue? Well, the church fathers of AD 300/400 started their own religion in Rome. This particular religion continued until the time of the reformation where the rays of the light of the glorious gospel of God as seen in the face of JESUS the Christ arose in lives as a morning star.
Reviewing historical insights into the Reformation period, we learn that John Wycliffe had written the Bible in the English tongue - in a period that was to become similar to the dawning of a better day.
Heaven and earth may pass away but the Word of the Lord abides forever. As such Lord, you are the author of this faith. Open our hearts to receive your engrafted Word with meekness.
Yes, we speak of this glorious temple which even today remains under construction. The temple to which we refer is God’s building. The building that God designed and God furnishes. God Himself being the mastermind - the creator! Indeed, God does all things according to the purpose of His own will. This glorious temple is the spiritual body of JESUS the Christ.
As it is written -- you and I are the body of Christ, chosen of God being jointly and fitly framed together as a body while constantly increasing in number -- until the fullness of the measure of the stature of Christ is attained!
Inside this glorious temple of the Holy Spirit, there are no spots or wrinkles or in fact any blemishes. Further, within this temple the Spirit of God is praised by the redeemed members who have been filled (Spirit baptism) with the same Spirit that was in the man JESUS. The promised Holy Spirit being received by them after repenting and being baptized into the name of JESUS for the remission of all their sins - likewise then did JESUS breath upon them His spiritual breath.
The other good news is that this spiritual temple requires no man made cleansing. For what God has cleansed, let no man call common or unclean. As it is written, the blood of JESUS the Christ - God’s Son cleanses us from all sin. This is the God in whom we trust.
Unfortunately, many church institutions have abandoned the original God-given faith and scriptural teachings that were once delivered to believers. Some might even suggest that we have forsaken the fountain of life! Instead, the church fathers have rejected the capping stone in 300/400 AD, even as the Jews had previously. In the case of the latter, the Jews had said, "We will not have this man (JESUS) rule over us."
So God cut them off and the Gentiles were grafted in. Even today, there are Jews who still do not understand that they crucified the Lord of glory. This misunderstanding even though God provided ample opportunity to the Jews to receive God’s forgiveness. But rather than repent, the scriptures state that the Jews hardened their heart, becoming uncircumcised in their hearts in the days and centuries that followed.
What was the issue? Well, the church fathers of AD 300/400 started their own religion in Rome. This particular religion continued until the time of the reformation where the rays of the light of the glorious gospel of God as seen in the face of JESUS the Christ arose in lives as a morning star.
Reviewing historical insights into the Reformation period, we learn that John Wycliffe had written the Bible in the English tongue - in a period that was to become similar to the dawning of a better day.
Heaven and earth may pass away but the Word of the Lord abides forever. As such Lord, you are the author of this faith. Open our hearts to receive your engrafted Word with meekness.
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