How Much More Shall the Blood of Christ? - Part 816

In the written Word, there are two covenants -- the old covenant under law and a new covenant under grace. We live in the dispensation of grace. Those who do not recognize that there is a significant difference between the two often fall between the cracks, with one foot trying to obey old testament commandments and Leviticus law, while the other noddingly agrees that Jesus shed His precious blood for our sins and as a consequence, there is nothing we could do to earn salvation. But as good as this might sound in theory, it does not work in practice. 

Why? Because each covenant represents a different period in God's plan of salvation. Reading from the latter part of Hebrews chapter eight, we can understand that the first covenant was not without fault.  Had it been faultless, there would not have been any need for a second.

"For if that first covenant had been faultless, then should no place have been sought for the second. For finding fault with them, He saith, behold, the days come," saith the Lord, "when I will make a new covenant with the house of Israel and with the house of Judah. Not according to the covenant that I made with their fathers in the day when I took them by the hand to lead them out of the land of Egypt because they continued not in My covenant, and I regarded them not," saith the Lord. (Hebrews 8:7-9)

But there will be a new covenant, saith the Lord.

"For this is the covenant that I will make with the house of Israel after those days," saith the Lord, "I will put My laws into their mind, and write them in their hearts: and I will be to them a God, and they shall be to Me a people. And they shall not teach every man his neighbour, and every man his brother, saying, "Know the Lord: for all shall know Me, from the least to the greatest. For I will be merciful to their unrighteousness, and their sins and their iniquities will I remember no more." (Hebrews 8:10-12)

"A new covenant, He hath made the first old. Now that which decayeth and waxeth old is ready to vanish away." (Hebrews 8:13)

The message about these two covenants did not stop there. The same Lord God who later became our Saviour wants us to understand why there were two covenants. He wanted us to know why it was necessary for He that knew no sin to become sin for us. Most of all, He would not have us ignorant. Paul wrote:

"If ye have heard of the dispensation of the grace of God ... which in other ages was not made known unto the sons of men, as it is now revealed unto his holy apostles and prophets by the Spirit ..." (Ephesians 3:1-11)

Hebrews nine elaborates on this point, beginning with the old covenant (the old testament):

"Then verily the first covenant had also ordinances of divine service, and a worldly sanctuary. For there was a tabernacle made; the first, wherein was the candlestick, and the table, and the shewbread; which is called the sanctuary. And after the second veil, the tabernacle which is called the Holiest of all; which had the golden censer, and the ark of the covenant overlaid round about with gold, wherein was the golden pot that had manna, and Aaron's rod that budded, and the tables of the covenant; and over it the cherubims of glory shadowing the mercy seat; of which we cannot now speak particularly." (Hebrews 9:1-5)

"Now when these things were thus ordained, the priests went always into the first tabernacle, accomplishing the service of God. But into the second went the high priest alone once every year, not without blood, which he offered for himself, and for the errors of the people." (Hebrews 9:6-7)

"The Holy Ghost this signifying, that the way into the holiest of all was not yet made manifest, while as the first tabernacle was yet standing: which was a figure for the time then present, in which were offered both gifts and sacrifices, that could not make him that did the service perfect, as pertaining to the conscience, which stood only in meats and drinks, and divers washings, and carnal ordinances, imposed on them until the time of reformation." (Hebrews 9:8-10)

The old covenant because the holiest of all was not yet made manifest. He who knew no sin becoming sin for us.

"But Christ being come an high priest of good things to come, by a greater and more perfect tabernacle, not made with hands, that is to say, not of this building; neither by the blood of goats and calves, but by His own blood He entered in once into the holy place, having obtained eternal redemption for us." (Hebrews 9:11-12)

"For if the blood of bulls and of goats, and the ashes of an heifer sprinkling the unclean, sanctifieth to the purifying of the flesh, how much more shall the blood of Christ, who through the eternal Spirit offered Himself without spot to God, purge your conscience from dead works to serve the living God?" (Hebrews 9:13-14)

"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) 

Who is the He that is the mediator? The foretold Christ. The Word that was God who later became flesh. Our Lord God who is One |God, who willingly shed His precious holy blood on a cross for you and I. (John 1:1-18)

"For where a testament is, there must also of necessity be the death of the testator. For a testament is of force after men are dead: otherwise it is of no strength at all while the testator liveth. Whereupon neither the first testament was dedicated without blood. For when Moses had spoken every precept to all the people according to the law, he took the blood of calves and of goats, with water, and scarlet wool, and hyssop, and sprinkled both the book, and all the people, saying, "This is the blood of the testament which God hath enjoined unto you." (Hebrews 9:19-20)

"Moreover he sprinkled with blood both the tabernacle, and all the vessels of the ministry. And almost all things are by the law purged with blood; and without shedding of blood is no remission. It was therefore necessary that the patterns of things in the heavens should be purified with these; but the heavenly things themselves with better sacrifices than these." (Hebrews 9:21-23)

But herein is the good news, the introduction of this dispensation of grace.

"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 ... nor yet that He should offer Himself often, as the high priest entereth 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 hath He appeared to put away sin by the sacrifice of Himself." (Hebrews 9:24-26)

"And as it is appointed unto men once to die, but after this the judgment, so Christ was once offered to bear the sins of many; and unto them that look for Him shall He appear the second time without sin unto salvation." (Hebrews 9:27-28)

There is much more on the covenants that believers need to know but for now know that the law was given as a schoolmaster -- so that we would recognize our transgressions -- and as Paul points out in Hebrews a shadow of all those good things that were still to come. (Hebrews 10:1)

"And to make all men see what is the fellowship of the mystery, which from the beginning of the world hath been hid in God, who created all things by Jesus Christ." (Ephesians 3:9)

Let him who hath ears to hear, hear. Stand in the offering plate. 

My Heart Rejoices and My Tongue Glad - Part 815

Reading the gospels -- Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John -- is inspiring in that these share the very good news message of Jesus and His kingdom. These detail His life on earth -- He who knew no sin becoming sin for us -- providing us with insights into what we should believe, and about His gift of salvation. These four accounts of the life of Jesus collectively share as a narrative of the greatest love story ever told. If you are new to believing in Jesus by faith, and seeking His righteousness, I would highly recommend reading these for your personal edification. 

However, don't stop reading once you are finished the four gospels because there is so much more that we need to know. The book of Acts, for example, shows us how Jesus' disciples shared their knowledge of Jesus, and His kingdom in practice, proclaiming His good news message to all that would listen. Acts also reveals how the disciples were led by the Holy Ghost to apply the truths that they had learned from walking daily with Jesus -- essentially taking Jesus' teachings and putting them into practice. 

"But the Comforter, [which is] the Holy Ghost, whom the Father will send in My name, He shall teach you all things, and bring all things to your remembrance, whatsoever I have said unto you." (John 14:26)

When we seek Jesus and His righteousness, we are seeking His wisdom and knowledge. This is why it is critical that we read and understand the book of Acts.

Therein, we read that Jesus commanded the disciples to "not depart from Jerusalem, but wait for the promise of the Father, which saith He, ye have heard of Me. For John truly baptized with water, but ye shall be baptized with the Holy Ghost not many days hence." (Acts 1:4-5)

Indeed, Jesus told the apostles that He had chosen -- that they "shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you, and ye shall be witnesses unto Me in Jerusalem, and in all Judaea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth." (Acts 1:8)

Yes, Jesus ministry, as Peter alluded to in the first chapter of Acts, "beginning from the baptism of John, unto that same day that He was taken up from us, must one be ordained to be a witness with us of His resurrection" did not end at the cross. (Acts 1:22) In fact, the cross -- where the veil between God and man was torn from top to bottom -- was only the beginning. 

We see this on the day of Pentecost. Judas had already been replaced with Matthias, and now, "numbered with the eleven apostles." (Acts 1:26) The scriptures state also that on the day of Pentecost "they were all with one accord in one place." (Acts 2:1) And what happens? 

"And suddenly, there came a sound from heaven as of a rushing mighty wind, and it filled all the house where they were sitting, and there appeared unto them cloven tongues, like 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. And there were dwelling at Jerusalem Jews, devout men out of every nation under heaven. Now when this was noised abroad, the multitude came together and were confounded, because that every man heard them speak in his own language. And they were all amazed and marvelled, saying one to another, "Behold, are not all these which speak Galilaeans? And how hear we every man in our own tongue, wherein we were born?" (Acts 2:1-11)

What did these hear? They heard about the wonderful works of God. As expected, these were amazed because they heard about our Lord God and Saviour in their own language from people who would have had no prior ability to speak in other languages. Why do you think it happened this way?

Well, had it been any other way, God would not have received the glory. Even though some mocked, thinking the apostles had been drinking  -- even though it was only the third hour of the day -- one thing was for sure. Only God could give them an ability to speak in the language(s) of those around them. As stated in Joel, "Ye shall know that I am in the midst of Israel, and that I am the Lord your God, and none else." (Joel 2:27)

Peter, standing with the eleven clarifies to the that these men are not drunk. He then states: 

"And it shall come to pass in the last days," saith God, "I will pour out of 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 prophesy. And I will show wonders in heaven above, and signs in the earth beneath, blood, and fire, and vapour of smoke. The sun shall be turned into darkness, and the moon into blood, before that great and notable day of the Lord come; and it shall come to pass, that whosoever shall call on the Name of the Lord shall be saved." (Acts 2:17-21, Joel 2:27-32)

God wanted to let "all the house of Israel know assuredly, that God that made that same Jesus, whom ye have crucified both Lord and Christ." (Acts 2:36)

Peter continues, saying, "Ye men of Israel, hear these words, Jesus of Nazareth, a man approved of God among you by miracles and wonders and signs which God did by Him in the midst of you, as ye yourselves also know; Him being delivered by the determinant counsel and foreknowledge of God -- ye have taken and by wicked hands have crucified and slain -- whom God hath raised up, and loosed the pains of death; because it was not possible that He should be holden of it. For David speaketh [earlier] concerning Him:

"I foresaw the Lord, always before my face, for He is on my right hand, that I should not be moved. Therefore, did my heart rejoice and my tongue was glad; moreover, also my flesh shall rest in hope ... because Thou wilt not leave my soul in hell, neither wilt Thou suffer Thine Holy One to see corruption. Thou hast made known in me the ways of life. Thou shalt make me full of joy with Thy countenance." 

Then Peter began to speak freely about the patriarch David -- that he is both dead and buried, and his sepulchre is with us unto this day, "Therefore, being a prophet, and knowing that God had sworn with an oath to him, that of the fruit of his loins, according to the flesh, He would raise up Christ to sit on His throne. He seeing this before spake of the resurrection of Christ that His soul was not left in hell, neither His flesh did see corruption. This Jesus hath God raised up, whereof we all are witnesses. Therefore, being by the right hand of God exalted, and having received of the Father the promise of the Holy Ghost, He hath shed forth this, which ye now see and hear. For David is not ascended into the heavens, but He saith Himself, " The Lord said unto my Lord, Sit Thou on My right hand, until I make Thy foes Thy footstool." (Acts 2:29-35; Psalm 16:8-11; John 13:31-32; Psalm 110:1)

What happened next? Those that heard this message were pricked in their heart. Convicted, they asked, "Men and brethren, what must we do?"

Then Peter said unto them, "Repent and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost, for the promise is unto you and to your children, and to all that are afar off, even as many as the Lord our God shall call." (Acts 2:38)

Then they that gladly received His Word were baptized and the same day there was added unto them about 3,000 souls. 

"And they continued steadfastly in the apostle's doctrine and fellowship, and in breaking of bread, and in prayers." (Acts 2:42) Colossians 1:28 states: "To whom God would make known what is the riches of the glory of this mystery among the Gentiles; which is Christ in you, the hope of glory. Whom we preach warning every man, and teaching every man in all wisdom that we may present every man perfect in Christ Jesus." In other words, like the day of Pentecost when the day was fully come, the day has come that we can receive -- in this covenant of grace -- His gift of salvation bought by the shedding of the precious blood of Jesus on the cross.

As an aside, note that earlier in Luke, Jesus rejoiced in spirit, saying, "I thank Thee, O Father, Lord of heaven and earth, that Thou hast hid these things from the wise and prudent, and hast revealed them unto babes; even so, Father, for so it seemed good in Thy sight. All things are delivered to Me of My Father; and no man knoweth who the Son is, but the Father; and who the Father is but the Son, and he to whom the Son will reveal Him."  My glory rejoices!

Turning then to the disciples, Jesus said to them privately, "Blessed are the eyes which see the things that ye see: for I tell you that many prophets and kings have desired to see those things which ye see, and have not seen them; and to hear those things which ye hear, and have not heard them." (Luke 10:21-22)

Let him who hath ears to hear, hear. Stand in the offering plate. 

The Price is Too Costly Not To Know - Part 814

"Be not carried about with divers and strange doctrines. For [it is] a good thing that the heart be established with grace; not with meats, which have not profited them that have been occupied therein." (Hebrews 13:9) 

Throughout the Bible, believers in Jesus by faith are warned of false prophets and lying spirits who have come to deceive and destroy. These false spirits are not only situated in the public square but similarly teaching in responsible positions within our places of worship. This is why we are instructed to try the spirits to see whether they are of God. The difficulty is that in today's world of religiosity, and similarly, church culture, it is getting harder and harder to meet people interested in spending time sharing and sharpening each other with the Word. 

John wrote: "Beloved, believe not every spirit, but try the spirits whether they are of God: because many false prophets are gone out into the world. Hereby know ye the Spirit of God: Every spirit that confesseth that Jesus Christ is come in the flesh is of God, and every spirit that confesseth not that Jesus Christ is come in the flesh is not of God. And this is that [spirit] of antichrist, whereof ye have heard that it should come; and even now already is it in the world. Ye are of God, little children, and have overcome them: because greater is He that is in you, than he that is in the world. They are of the world: therefore, speak they of the world, and the world heareth them. We are of God. He that knoweth God heareth us. He that is not of God heareth not us. Hereby know we the spirit of truth, and the spirit of error." (I John 4:1-6)

Peter confirmed the same message in his writing: "But there were false prophets also among the people, even as there shall be false teachers among you, who privily shall bring in damnable heresies, even denying the Lord that bought them, and bring upon themselves swift destruction. And many shall follow their pernicious ways; by reason of whom the way of truth shall be evil spoken of, and through covetousness shall they with feigned words make merchandise of you: whose judgment now of a long time lingereth not, and their damnation slumbereth not." (II Peter 2:1-3)

Matthew wrote about false prophets as well: "Beware of false prophets, which come to you in sheep's clothing, but inwardly they are ravening wolves. Ye shall know them by their fruits. Do men gather grapes of thorns, or figs of thistles? Even so every good tree bringeth forth good fruit; but a corrupt tree bringeth forth evil fruit. A good tree cannot bring forth evil fruit, neither can a corrupt tree bring forth good fruit. Every tree that bringeth not forth good fruit is hewn down, and cast into the fire. Wherefore by their fruits ye shall know them." (Matthew 7:15-20, Matthew 24:4-51)

Jesus said, "Take heed that no man deceive you, for many shall come in My Name, saying I am Christ, and shall deceive many." (Matthew 24:4-5) Jesus later told the scribes and the Pharisees (when they did not understand His speech) in the book of John: "Ye are of [your] father the devil, and the lusts of your father ye will do. He was a murderer from the beginning, and abode not in the truth, because there is no truth in him. When he speaketh a lie, he speaketh of his own: for he is a liar, and the father of it." (John 8:44)

So, if this is the world which is to come and yet, in which we live, what are we to do? Well, first know that "God is not [the author] of confusion, but of peace, as in all churches of the saints." (I Corinthians 14:33) 

Jesus knew that this time would come on earth and warned us accordingly, so that we would not be caught unaware. Jesus said that "false Christs, and false prophets [would arise] and show great signs and wonders; insomuch that, if it were possible, they shall deceive the very elect." (Matthew 24:24) 

"For false Christs and false prophets shall rise, and shall shew signs and wonders, to seduce, if it were possible, even the elect." (Mark 13:22)

The apostles too warned us of this latter time, encouraging us to know that "because God hath from the beginning chosen you to salvation through sanctification of the Spirit and belief in the truth, whereunto He called you by our gospel, to the obtaining of the glory of our Lord Jesus Christ, therefore, brethren, "stand fast, and hold the traditions which ye have been taught, whether by Word or our epistle ... now our Lord Jesus Christ Himself and God, even our Father, which has loved us, and hath given us everlasting consolation and good hope through grace." (II Thessalonians 2:13-16)

Herein, believers in Jesus Christ, who seek His righteousness, are instructed to stand fast, and to hold the traditions which we have been taught -- whether by Word (Jesus -- see John 1:1-18) or the epistles. 

"Stand fast therefore in the liberty wherewith Christ hath made us free, and be not entangled again with the yoke of bondage." (Galatians 5:1) 

David, under the old covenant wrote: "Lead me in Thy truth, and teach me: for thou art the God of my salvation; on Thee do I wait all the day." (Psalm 25:5) How much more in this new covenant of grace, whereby salvation is a gift --- should this be our heart's desire -- returning to our first love, remembering that we were bought with a price. 

As well, be encouraged to search the scriptures "in whom are hid all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge." (Colossians 2:3) "Seek and ye shall find." (Matthew 7:7-8) How do we do this? Jesus said, "Seek ye first the kingdom of God, and His righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you." (Matthew 6:33)

In terms of understanding, be diligent in the Word of God as truth. Even more so, "if any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God that giveth to all men liberally, and it shall be given him ... and let him ask in faith, nothing wavering." (James 1:5-6) 

"Howbeit when He, the Spirit of truth, is come, He will guide you into all truth: for He shall not speak of Himself; but whatsoever He shall hear, that shall He speak: and He will shew you things to come." (John 16:13)

Be baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ. (Acts 2:38-42) Receive the gift of the Holy Ghost. Covet the best spiritual gifts. Remember, to love one another.

"Let us therefore fear, lest a promise being left us of entering into His rest, any of you should seem to come short of it. For unto us was the gospel preached, as well as unto them; but the Word preached did not profit them, not being mixed with faith in them that heard it. For we which have believed, do enter into rest, as He said, "As I have sworn in my wrath, if they shall enter into my rest:" although the works were finished from the foundation of the world ... "If they shall enter into my rest." (Hebrews 4:1-11)

This is why Paul wrote: "Now we beseech you, brethren, by the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ, and by the gathering together unto Him, that ye be not soon shaken in mind, or be troubled, neither by spirit, nor by Word, nor by letter as from us, as that the day of Christ is at hand. 

Let no man deceive you by any means, for that day shall not come except there come a falling away first and that man of sin be revealed, the son of perdition -- who opposes and exalteth himself above all that is called God, or that is worshipped, so that he as God sitteth in the temple of God, showing himself that he is God." (II Thessalonians 2:1-12)

Instead, let's become more like our Lord God and Saviour, Jesus the Christ who went about the cities and villages, teaching in their synagogues and preaching the gospel of the kingdom, and healing ever sickness and every disease among the people. (Matthew 9:35)   

Be bold and let the "God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, that ye may abound in hope, through the power of the Holy Ghost." (Romans 15:13) 

"Let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of need." (Hebrews 4:16) Stand in the offering plate.

We Are Called According To His Purpose and Grace - Part 813

"Who hath saved us, and called [us] with an holy calling, not according to our works, but according to His own purpose and grace, which was given us in Christ Jesus before the world began but is now made manifest by the appearing of our Saviour Jesus Christ, who hath abolished death and hath brought life and immortality to light through the gospel." (II Timothy 1:9)

One of the difficulties that is emerging in these the last days is the inability of so-called ministering experts to accurately present the scriptures. It is almost as if there is a spiritual blindness that prevents them from accepting the Word -- as it is written. As I checked into the idea of spiritual blindness further, I found a number of scriptures that confirm this state of heart in individuals. 

Sadly, however, what is emerging are not only false prophets and teachers (those who willingly know that the teachings they present are false) but now there are others who have only half-heartedly search the scriptures for their teaching(s). In this latter case, many of these are not even aware of the two covenants -- the old covenant in which people lived subject to the law -- and this new current covenant of grace wherein we have a personal relationship with Jesus because the veil was ripped from top to bottom. 

Those that have minimal understanding of the difference (and have not searched the scriptures for the truth) tend to mix the two covenants, expecting believers to accept grace for salvation but also to be subject to certain old covenant laws and commandments. I won't even add the religious culture that emphasizes good works (as a necessary duty for salvation), those who believe priest(s) are still a mediator between God and man, or those who promote right living. In all of these (and probably more that I haven't mentioned), the idea is to keep believers teetering between each of the two covenants, rather than fully accepting (and teaching) that He who knew no sin tasted death so that we could have life everlasting.

Thankfully, the scriptures state that "No man can serve two masters, for either he will hate the one and love the other, or else, he will hold to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve God and mammon." (Matthew 6:24) Although many will relate this particular verse in Matthew to money, the same underlying principle applies to the covenants. 

Either we accept that under the new covenant -- "by grace are [we] saved through faith, and that not of [ourselves] -- it is the gift of God" (Ephesians 2:5-9) and that we are "justified freely by His grace through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus" (Romans 3:24) or sadly, we deny Jesus, "who was made a little than the angels for the suffering of death, crowned with glory and honour, that He by the grace of God should taste death for every man" and therefore, make His death of none effect. (Galatians 2:21; Hebrews 2:9)

For the law having a shadow of good things to come, and not the very image of the things can never with those sacrifices which they offered year by year continually make the comers thereunto perfect, for then would they not have ceased to be offered? "Because that the worshippers once purged should have had no more conscience of sins. But in those sacrifices, there is a remembrance again made of sins every year. For it is not possible that the blood of bulls and goats should take away sins. Wherefore, when He cometh into the world, He saith, "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. Then said I, "Lo, I come (in the volume of the book it is written of Me) to do Thy will, O God." (Hebrews 10:1-7)

Further, "for the law was given by Moses, [but] grace and truth came by Jesus Christ." (John 1:17) "For the grace of God that brings salvation hath appeared to all men ... looking for that blessed hope, and the glorious appearing of the great God and our Saviour Jesus Christ, who gave Himself for us, that He might redeem us from all iniquity, and purify unto Himself a peculiar people, zealous of good works. These things speak, and exhort, and rebuke with all authority. Let no man despise thee." (Titus 2:11-15) 

When Jesus said, "My grace is sufficient for thee, for my strength is made perfect in weakness," He meant that His grace is sufficient. (II Corinthians 12:9) This same Jesus, "in whom we have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of sins, according to the riches of His grace." (Ephesians 1:7) This same Jesus "by whom also we have access by faith into this grace wherein we stand, and rejoice in hope of the glory of God." (Romans 5:2)

"Knowing that a man is not justified by the works of the law, but by the faith of Jesus Christ, even we have believed in Jesus Christ, that we might be justified by the faith of Christ, and not by the works of the law: for by the works of the law shall no flesh be justified." (Galatians 2:16)

If we do not ... "Of how much sorer punishment, suppose ye, shall he be thought worthy, who hath trodden under foot the Son of God, and hath counted the blood of the covenant, wherewith he was sanctified, an unholy thing, and hath done despite unto the Spirit of grace?" (Hebrews 10:29)

This preaching and teaching of anything BUT the Word -- as it is written -- has to stop. Indeed, it is time for believers everywhere to stand up and stop the cancer that is called spiritual blindness that is darkening the world with a perverse understanding of the scriptures and teachings that are false.

Ephesians 4:18 states: "Having the understanding darkened, being alienated from the life of God through the ignorance that is in them, because of the blindness of their heart." 

Why should we care? Because, as Paul wrote in Romans, "For I would not, brethren, that ye should be ignorant of this mystery, lest ye should be wise in your own conceits; that blindness in part is happened to Israel, until the fulness of the Gentiles be come in." (Romans 11:25)

Rather, earnestly contend for the faith that was given to us through the Word, knowing that "God is able to make all grace abound toward you, that ye always having all sufficiency in all things, may abound to every good work." (II Corinthians 9:8) As well, seek His wisdom. Grow in grace and in the knowledge of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. (II Peter 3:18) 

Most of all, let Jesus lead you and guide you into all truth. He will make you perfect, stablish, strengthen, and settle you. (I Peter 5:10) Stand in the offering plate.

Standing on the Promises of God My Saviour - Part 812

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 me free from the law of sin and death. (Romans 8:1-2)

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 8:3-4)

For they that are after the flesh do mind the things of the flesh; but they that are after the Spirit the things of the Spirit. For to be carnally minded is death; but to be spiritually minded is life and peace. Because the carnal mind is enmity against God: for it is not subject to the law of God, neither indeed can be. So then they that are in the flesh cannot please God. (Romans 8:5-8)

But ye [meaning you and me who believe in Jesus by faith and seek His righteousness] are not in the flesh, but in the Spirit, if so be that the Spirit of God dwell in you. Now if any man have not the Spirit of Christ, he is none of His. (Romans 8:9)

And if Christ be in you, the body is dead because of sin; but the Spirit is life because of righteousness. But if the Spirit of Him that raised up Jesus from the dead dwell in you, He that raised up Christ from the dead shall also quicken your mortal bodies by His Spirit that dwelleth in you. (Romans 8:10-11)

Therefore, brethren, we are debtors, not to the flesh, to live after the flesh. For if ye live after the flesh, ye shall die: but if ye through the Spirit do mortify the deeds of the body, ye shall live. For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, they are the sons of God. (Romans 8:12-14)

For ye have not received the spirit of bondage again to fear; but ye have received the Spirit of adoption, whereby we cry, "Abba, Father." The Spirit itself bears witness with our spirit, that we are the children of God. And if children, then heirs; heirs of God, and joint-heirs with Christ; if so be that we suffer with Him, that we may be also glorified together. (Romans 8:15-17)

For I reckon that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory which shall be revealed in us. For the earnest expectation of the creature waiteth for the manifestation of the sons of God. For the creature was made subject to vanity, not willingly, but by reason of Him who hath subjected the same in hope, because the creature itself also shall be delivered from the bondage of corruption into the glorious liberty of the children of God. (Romans 8:18-21)

For we know that the whole creation groaneth and travaileth in pain together until now. And not only they, but ourselves also, which have the firstfruits of the Spirit, even we ourselves groan within ourselves, waiting for the adoption, to wit, the redemption of our body. For we are saved by hope: but hope that is seen is not hope: for what a man sees, why doth he yet hope for? (Romans 8:22-24)

But if we hope for that we see not, then do we with patience wait for it. Likewise the Spirit also helps our infirmities: for we know not what we should pray for as we ought: but the Spirit itself maketh intercession for us with groanings which cannot be uttered. (Romans 8:25-26)

And He that searcheth the hearts knoweth what is the mind of the Spirit, because He maketh intercession for the saints according to the will of God. And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to His purpose. For whom He did foreknow, He also did predestinate to be conformed to the image of His Son, that He might be the firstborn among many brethren. (Romans 8:27-29)

Moreover whom He did predestinate, them He also called: and whom He called, them He also justified: and whom He justified, them He also glorified. What shall we then say to these things? If God be for us, who can be against us? He that spared not His own [begotten] Son, but delivered Him up for us all, how shall He not with Him also freely give us all things? (Romans 8:30-32)

Who shall lay anything to the charge of God's elect? It is God that justifies. Who is he that condemns? It is Christ that died, yea rather, that is risen again, who is even at the right hand of God, who also makes intercession for us. Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or peril, or sword? (Romans 8:33-35)

As it is written, "For thy sake we are killed all the day long; we are accounted as sheep for the slaughter. Nay, in all these things we are more than conquerors through Him that loved us. For I am persuaded, that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor powers, nor things present, nor things to come ... nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature, shall be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord." (Romans 8:1-39) Stand in the offering plate.

Be Glad with Singleness of Heart - Part 811

"Beware lest any man spoil you through philosophy and vain deceit after the tradition of men, after the rudiments of the world, and not after Christ. For in Him dwelleth all the fulness of the Godhead bodily." (Colossians 2:8-9) 

"But the anointing which ye have received of Him abideth in you, and ye need not that any man teach you, but as the same anointing teaches you of all things, and is truth, and is no lie, and even as it hath taught you, ye shall abide in Him." (I John 2:27)

In spite of what the religious culture and traditions of this day would have us believe, salvation (according to the scriptures) can not be attained by good works or by traditional religious exercises. In fact, if either of these were -- in the eyes of our Lord God and Saviour -- capable of redeeming man from the bondage of sin , then why would He deem it necessary for a righteous one to be crucified and therefore, become cursed of God? 

The scriptures state: "For He hath made Him to be sin for us -- who knew no sin -- that we might be made the righteousness of God in Him." (II Corinthians 5:21) 

As such, not only did justice demand that a righteous one die but that His precious blood be totally shed so that our sins could be forgiven. This is why the cost alone associated with man’s redemption from sin is the best love story ever told. That is, the precious blood that was shed on the cross at Calvary WAS the lifeblood of the Holy Spirit. It was not human Adamic sin prone blood. Rather, the body crucified on the cross was the sinless body of God, for it is written "Hereby perceive we the love of God -- because He laid down His life for us, and we ought to lay down our lives for the brethren." (I John 3:16) 

"Greater love hath no man than this -- that a man lay down His life for His friends." (John 15:13)

Therefore, when we believe in Jesus by faith, and seek His righteousness, we are reconciled to the same Lord God who later became our Saviour.

"And all things are of God, who hath reconciled us to Himself by Jesus Christ, and hath given unto us the ministry of reconciliation. To wit, that God was in Christ, reconciling the world unto Himself, not imputing their trespasses unto them; and hath committed unto us the Word of reconciliation. Now we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God did beseech you by us; we pray you in Christ's stead -- be ye reconciled to God. For He hath made Him sin for us, who knew no sin, that we might be made the righteousness of God in Him." (II Corinthians 5:18-21)

Moreover, when one receives the promised gift of His Holy Spirit, it is likened to a well of life springing up from one's innermost being. Happiness abounds! This is why those of us who know God's presence firsthand describe His presence as an unspeakable joy that is glorious. Indeed, we become victorious through Jesus who lives within. But I digress. 

Ephesians chapter two is insightful for those who read it and ask the Lord Jesus to provide His wisdom and council. If you haven't yet asked Jesus to be Lord of your life, ask Him into your heart today. Come to Jesus and discover for yourself His goodness and mercy. His grace. His love. You will not be disappointed. Ephesians 2 states:

"And you hath He quickened, who were dead in trespasses and sins; wherein in time past, ye walked according to the course of this world, according to the prince of the power of the air, the spirit that now works in the children of disobedience: among whom also we all had our conversation in times past in the lusts of our flesh, fulfilling the desires of the flesh and of the mind; and were by nature the children of wrath, even as others.

But God, who is rich in mercy, for His great love wherewith He loved us, even when we were dead in sins, hath quickened us together with Christ, (by grace ye are saved;) and hath raised us up together, and made us sit together in heavenly places in Christ Jesus:

That in the ages to come He might shew the exceeding riches of His grace in His kindness toward us through Christ Jesus. For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God. Not of works, lest any man should boast. For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them.

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 cornerstone in whom all the building fitly framed together groweth unto an holy temple in the Lord. In whom ye also are builded together for an habitation of God through the Spirit." (Ephesians 2:1-22) 

Salvation cannot be earned. There is nothing we can do to become a new creature in Christ, other than believe in Jesus and His name. Then, when we seek His righteousness, the next step is to be baptized in the name of Jesus for the remission of sins according to Acts 2:38-42, so that we too (like the first 3,000 to be saved in this current dispensation of grace) can receive the gift of the Holy Ghost. Stand in the offering plate.

Can a devil Open the Eyes of the Blind? - Part 810

Jesus said, "I am the Good Shepherd: the Good Shepherd gives His life for the sheep." (John 10:10)  Here, in this current dispensation of grace, our Lord God is bringing unto Himself a chosen people.  "But ye are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, an holy nation, a peculiar people; that ye should shew forth the praises of Him who hath called you out of darkness into His marvelous light, which in time past were not a people, but are now the people of God: which had not obtained mercy, but now have obtained mercy." (I Peter 2:9-10)

As believers in Jesus the Christ, by faith, who seek His righteousness and mercy, we have so much to be thankful for. Indeed, we are the believing offspring of the SEED child of the Holy Spirit, who was predestined according to the determinate counsel and foreknowledge of God. What was God's plan? To bring together a holy nation of redeemed, blood washed, water baptized in Jesus' Name and Holy Spirit filled born of God people who would inherit the gift of eternal life through faith in the incorruptible promised Word of God.

His promise being to you and to your children and to those who are afar off, when we believe in Jesus, and His name.

For those who may not understand, the SEED spoken of here was the SEED of promise given of God to Eve and later, Abraham. God said that this promised SEED (which is the SEED of the Holy Spirit) would be brought together at the fullness of time. These promised SEEDS at the fullness of time were deposited by God into the womb of a young virgin girl who was a most willing surrogate mother. Whilst in her womb, the child was clothed upon with sin prone flesh. 

But note that the child life was not of her. She was a surrogate mother of the child that was to be named Jesus. In other words, this child was the manifestation of the promised SEED of blessing veiled in flesh. The old testament prophecies of the Christ to come being fulfilled, and thus, ushering in the new covenant of grace. "God with us" bringing to you and I His perfect plan of salvation -- the greatest love story ever told. John 10 (below) elaborates further on this point:

Jesus is speaking. He said, "Verily, verily, I say unto you, he that entereth not by the door into the sheepfold, but climbeth up some other way, the same is a thief and a robber. But He that entereth in by the door is the Shepherd of the sheep.

To Him the porter opens; and the sheep hear His voice: and He calls His own sheep by name, and leads them out. And when He puts forth His own sheep, He goes before them, and the sheep follow Him: for they know His voice. And a stranger will they not follow, but will flee from him: for they know not the voice of strangers."

This parable spake Jesus unto them: but they understood not what things they were which He spake unto them. 

Then said Jesus unto them again, "Verily, verily, I say unto you, 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."

"The thief cometh not, but for to steal, and to kill, and to destroy: I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly. I am the Good Shepherd: the Good Shepherd giveth His life for the sheep. But he that is an hireling, and not the Shepherd, whose own the sheep are not, seeth the wolf coming, leaveth the sheep, and fleeth: and the wolf catcheth them, and scattereth the sheep. The hireling fleeth, because he is an hireling, and careth not for the sheep."

Jesus said, "I am the Good Shepherd, and know My sheep, and am known of mine. As the Father knoweth Me, even so know I the Father: and I lay down My life for the sheep. And other sheep I have, which are not of this fold: them also I must bring, and they shall hear My voice; and there shall be one fold, and One Shepherd.

Therefore doth My Father love Me, because I lay down my life, that I might take it again. No man taketh it from Me, but I lay it down of Myself. I have power to lay it down, and I have power to take it again. This commandment have I received of My Father."

As one can only imagine, after hearing Jesus' words, "there was a division therefore again among the Jews for these sayings. And many of them said, "He hath a devil, and is mad; why hear ye Him?" Others said, "These are not the words of Him that hath a devil. Can a devil open the eyes of the blind?"

And it was at Jerusalem the feast of the dedication, and it was winter. And Jesus walked in the temple in Solomon's porch. Then came the Jews round about Him, and said unto Him, "How long dost thou make us to doubt? If thou be the Christ, tell us plainly."

Jesus answered them, "I told you, and ye believed not: the works that I do in My Father's name, they bear witness of Me. But ye believe not, because ye are not of My sheep, as I said unto you. My sheep hear My voice, and I know them, and they follow Me: And I give unto them eternal life; and they shall never perish, neither shall any man pluck them out of My hand. My Father, which gave them Me, is greater than all; and no man is able to pluck them out of My Father's hand. I and My Father are one."

Then the Jews took up stones again to stone Him. Jesus answered them, "Many good works have I shewed you from My Father; for which of those works do ye stone Me?"

The Jews answered Him, saying, "For a good work we stone Thee not; but for blasphemy; and because that Thou, being a man, makest Thyself God."

Faith in JESUS then is exercising faith in the words spoken by "God with us" -- the Good Shepherd -- the Word in the flesh -- who the Jews wanted to stone -- because He -- Jesus -- makest Himself God. They did not understand who God was. It is this unbelief -- even today -- that prevents the promised blessing of God. 

The promise of blessing hinges upon faith in Christ making Jesus the SEED of blessing. As many as receive JESUS -- who is the Spirit of God manifest in flesh -- and the Lamb of God provided of God to be the sacrificial offering for sin -- they shall be saved.

Yes, God purposely veiled His pure spiritual humanity in a sin prone body so that you and I could be saved. God was in the man Jesus the Christ effectively reconciling to Himself a people which He alone foreknew -- a people not only called by HIS NAME but a people who have not forgotten His name. 

Let those who have ears to hear, hear. Stand in the offering plate.

Seek Ye the Lord While He Is Near - Part 809

Who is God? How do we know that our God is not just another god? These are questions that people have asked throughout the ages. At the same time, some have chosen to worship earthly gods -- such as the pursuit of money, vehicles, houses, careers -- anything that will increase our wealthy status and stature within this world. Others worship statues of stone or religious objects made by man. When these do not suffice, we live our lives through others, transforming people into glorified, famous idols. And then, of course, there are a series of other gods that are associated with some form of culture [religiosity?] and laws. Some of these have been men who were perceived to be good by the public at large and similarly able to develop a following (of sorts) before their death.  

But none of these are God. How can I say this? Because the God who created us in the beginning wasn't satisfied with a worldly status quo -- where man-made religion and/or churches (complete with glorified buildings and good music) are planted in an attempt to serve Him from a pew. Instead, God desires our hearts in full. He wants us to worship Him in spirit and in truth. He wants us to worship the Lord thy God with all our heart, soul, mind and strength. In fact, our Lord God desires a personal relationship with His people where we walk with Him in the cool of the day. 

As such, He didn't just provide lip service to His commitment to you and I. Indeed, He was willing to become flesh ... and ultimately, shed His precious blood on a cross so that we could personally know Him. God became as a Son -- the ONLY begotten Son -- so that we would have life everlasting.

Jesus said, "Greater love hath no man than this -- that a man lay down his life for his friends." (John 15:13) But Jesus as God in the flesh -- the Word in John 1:1-18) did one greater than even dying for His friends. He died for you and I even while we still were His enemies. 

"But God commendeth His love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us." 

Romans chapter five explains it this way: "Therefore being justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ: by whom also we have access by faith into this grace wherein we stand, and rejoice in hope of the glory of God. And not only so, but we glory in tribulations also: knowing that tribulation worketh patience; and patience, experience; and experience, hope: And hope maketh not ashamed; because the love of God is shed abroad in our hearts by the Holy Ghost which is given unto us. [see Acts 2:38-42 for more on the Holy Ghost]

For when we were yet without strength, in due time Christ died for the ungodly. For scarcely for a righteous man will one die: yet peradventure for a good man some would even dare to die. But God commendeth His 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. And not only so, but we also joy in God through our Lord Jesus Christ, by whom we have now received the atonement.

Wherefore, as by one man sin entered into the world, and death by sin; and so death passed upon all men, for that all have sinned: (For until the law sin was in the world: but sin is not imputed when there is no law. Nevertheless death reigned from Adam to Moses, even over them that had not sinned after the similitude of Adam's transgression, who is the figure of Him that was to come.

But not as the offence, so also is the free gift. For if through the offence of one many be dead, much more the grace of God, and the gift by grace, which is by one man, Jesus Christ, hath abounded unto many. And not as it was by one that sinned, so is the gift: for the judgment was by one to condemnation, but the free gift is of many offences unto justification.

For if by one man's offence death reigned by one; much more they which receive abundance of grace and of the gift of righteousness shall reign in life by one, Jesus Christ.) Therefore as by the offence of one judgment came upon all men to condemnation; even so by the righteousness of one the free gift came upon all men unto justification of life.

For as by one man's disobedience many were made sinners, so by the obedience of one shall many be made righteous. Moreover the law entered, that the offence might abound. But where sin abounded, grace did much more abound: That as sin hath reigned unto death, even so might grace reign through righteousness unto eternal life by Jesus Christ our Lord." (Romans 5:1-21)

In the beginning, Adam and Eve sinned and as a consequence, death and suffering became the norm for generations to come. While humans reigned on this earth (because God gave us dominion and authority over the earth in the Garden of Eden and He does not go back on His Word) only served to further turn us into people who were self-serving and ignorant of the things of God. Instead, we built shrines and worshipped idols made of stone, gold and brass. And sadly, this tradition continued from generation to generation. 

But now in this current dispensation of grace -- the new covenant where the veil was ripped from top to bottom when Jesus died on the cross -- means that we are without excuse. Why? Because the same God who created us in the beginning and knew no sin at any point became sin for us on the cross at Calvary. His blood freely given so that our transgressions could be forgiven. Our Lord God became our Saviour. And this same Lord invites us to come. 

Isaiah 55 gives us yet another reason to worship the only true God -- the King of kings and Lord of lords. For your edification ...

"Ho, every one that thirsteth, come ye to the waters, and he that hath no money; come ye, buy, and eat; yea, come, buy wine and milk without money and without price. Wherefore do ye spend money for that which is not bread? and your labour for that which satisfieth not? Hearken diligently unto Me, and eat ye that which is good, and let your soul delight itself in fatness.

Incline your ear, and come unto Me: hear, and your soul shall live; and I will make an everlasting covenant with you, even the sure mercies of David. Behold, I have given Him for a witness to the people, a leader and commander to the people.

Behold, thou shalt call a nation that thou knowest not, and nations that knew not Thee shall run unto Thee because of the Lord thy God, and for the Holy One of Israel; for He hath glorified Thee.

Seek ye the Lord while He may be found. Call ye upon Him while He is near. Let the wicked forsake his way, and the unrighteous man his thoughts: and let him return unto the Lord, and He will have mercy upon him; and to our God, for He will abundantly pardon. "For My thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways My ways," saith the Lord.

"For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are My ways higher than your ways, and My thoughts than your thoughts. For as the rain cometh down, and the snow from heaven, and returneth not thither, but watereth the earth, and maketh it bring forth and bud, that it may give seed to the sower, and bread to the eater, so shall My Word be that goeth forth out of My mouth: it shall not return unto Me void, but it shall accomplish that which I please, and it shall prosper in the thing whereto I sent it.

For ye shall go out with joy, and be led forth with peace: the mountains and the hills shall break forth before you into singing, and all the trees of the field shall clap their hands. [And] instead of the thorn shall come up the fir tree, and instead of the brier shall come up the myrtle tree: and it shall be to the Lord for a Name, for an everlasting sign that shall not be cut off."

We serve an awesome God. His name is Jesus. He is the prophesied Christ. Come and taste His water that is forever everlasting. Guaranteed, with Jesus as your God and Saviour, you will never thirst again. Thank you Jesus. Stand in the offering plate.

Who Art Thou Lord? - Part 808

"All things were made by Him and without Him was not anything made that was made ... and the Word became flesh." (John 1:1-18)

Even when we were yet enemies, JESUS died for you and I at Calvary. (Romans 5:10) This is the starting point toward salvation. The point where we must all - each and every one of us - begin if we are to inherit eternal life. Why? Because without the shedding of blood, there cannot be any remission of sin.

But our Lord God who is before all things became our Saviour.  He who knew no sin took upon Himself all of our earthly anxiety, cares, burdens, and sin. "The love of God is shed abroad in our hearts by the Holy Ghost which is given unto us -- for when we were yet without strength, in due time, Christ died for the ungodly. For scarcely for a righteous man will one die, yet peradventure for a good man some would even dare to die. But God commendeth His love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us." (Romans 5:5-8)

But one might ask -- isn't God Spirit? The answer is yes. But the Spirit of God, upon counselling with Himself decided that He was going to reveal Himself in visible form. As such, God stepped out of the unseen revealing Himself in form. In this case, human form. When we consider this decision from our own personal (and often self-absorbed) perspective, it becomes evident that God had a plan for His creation. We are not here by accident.

In fact, in the beginning God created man as an earthly image of His own spiritual form. And into that earthly form, God breathed into man the breath of life. As a consequence, man became a living soul. But in his innocence man was easy picking for a devil who fell because he thought he could be greater than Almighty God. Thus, even though man was perfect in image -- created uniquely in God's image -- he was also gullible. As we know from the book of Genesis, man -- up until this time -- knew only good. This is why Adam and Eve fell so easily from grace.

Fortunately, God knew before man was ever created that man was an unfinished work. His creation -- still very much in progress. Even though God had given man dominion over all the things of the earth, so they could reign, man was still an innocent soul life. In this situation, as we know from the book of Genesis, man soon to become a dead soul reducing man to a place that stagnated his growth beyond his present stature.

As we read, Adam and Eve disobeyed God and a death sentence was pronounced upon all living souls. For God had decreed that the soul that sins (the sin of disobedience to God’s instructions) would surely die. Adam and Eve were put out of the garden into a new world in which they were strangers. 

This also meant that their natural productive seed was no longer pure. Sin now inhabited their seed. We see this in the couple's two sons -- Cain and Abel -- who were typical examples of a fall from innocence. God was aware of their plight. Still, God had a higher plan for man.

"Wherefore, as by one man sin entered into the world, and death by sin; and so death passed upon all men, for that all have sinned. For until the law, sin was in the world, but sin is not imputed when there is no law. Nevertheless, death reigned from Adam to Moses, even over them that had not sinned after the similitude of Adam's transgression, who is the figure of Him that was to come." (Romans 5:12-15

But remember, man is a work in progress. As such, God gave a promise that the SEED of a woman would bruise the head of a serpent, the devil’s head. This explains why that promised SEED passed into Seth as presented in the genealogical record scribed in Matthew and Luke. As we read in the old testament (the old covenant and not today's dispensation of grace), we understand that men and women did not always honour God. The days of Noah serve as an example to the times that were at hand in his day.

Moving forward, Abraham (who was called a friend of God) believed God with his heart and as such, was blessed of Him because of His faith. But note that apart from Abraham believing in God, Abraham naturally had a litany of odd behaviour that could be used against him. We won't get into that here. However, when Abraham is just about ready to drive a knife into his son, Melchizedek meets Abraham. When the two met, Melchizedek blessed Abraham with bread and wine which Melchizedek had in His hands. (In God’s hands is bread and wine. The bread typifies His Life in flesh and the wine typifies His precious shed blood.) As many of us might do in this same situation, Abraham endeavours to add to the blessing by offering money.

But what was really happening here is that God was giving Abraham a promise that in His SEED (which is Christ the SEED of the Holy Spirit) would all the nations of the earth be blessed.

"But not as the offence, so also is the free gift. For if through the offence of one, many be dead, much more the grace of God, and the gift by grace, which is by one man, Jesus Christ, hath abounded unto many. And not as it was by one that sinned, so is the gift: for the judgement was by one to condemnation, but the free gift is of many offences unto justification. (For if by one man's offence death reigned by one; much more they which receive abundance of grace and of the gift of righteousness shall reign in life by one, Jesus Christ)

Therefore, as by the offence of one judgement came upon all men to condemnation; even so by the righteousness of one the free gift came upon all men unto justification of life. For as by one man's disobedience many were made sinners, so by the obedience of one shall many be made righteous. Moreover, the law entered that the offence might abound. But where sin abounded, grace did much more abound. That as sin hath reigned unto death, even so might grace reign through righteousness unto eternal life by Jesus Christ our Lord." (Romans 5:15-21)

What does this mean? Salvation came about as a consequence of the SEED of the Holy Spirit - JESUS - who alone can save. He willingly shed His blood for us. JESUS the ‘Lamb of God’ was like a sheep before the shearers. Still, the Lord our God opened not His mouth. He came to make a redemptive way and it is He alone who can deliver! The Lord Our Creator has become our Saviour! 

"Seeing it is one God, which shall justify the circumcision by faith and uncircumcision through faith." (Romans 3:30) "Who art Thou, Lord?" And the Lord said, "I am Jesus whom thou persecutest. It is hard for thee to kick against the pricks." (Acts 9:5) Jesus -- the same yesterday, today and forever. 

Let His work of redemption usher in the plan of God for our lives that was decided even before the world was formed. Stand in the offering plate.