He Rescues Us From Our Enemies - Part 847

More and more, I seem to be using the phrase "Jesus NEVER fails!" Initially, the phrase was a response to friends who seemed to be struggling from the burden of life issues. But lately, the same heavy load that is weighing on non-believers seems to be a problem even for those who do believe. This is a problem that cannot continue.

Why? Because our Lord God and Saviour fully expects us to reign -- not only in the next life but here on earth too. And He has equipped us to do the same. Indeed, His desire is for us to become "world changers" like the apostles, turning the world upside down with the good news gospel of Jesus and His Kingdom. 

In that context, today's message comes from Psalms. David wrote the psalm prior to God becoming flesh so God's name -- beyond Lord -- is not specifically mentioned. However, the content in David's message remains relevant today. The only difference is that in this current dispensation of grace, we know who our Lord God and Saviour by name --- Jesus -- the King of kings and Lord of lords. 

Read on ... from Psalms 136:

"Praise the Lord! He is good! God’s love never fails. Praise the God of all gods. God’s love never fails. Praise the Lord of lords. God’s love never fails. Only God works great miracles. God’s love never fails. With wisdom He made the sky. God’s love never fails. 

The Lord stretched the earth over the ocean. God’s love never fails. He made the bright lights in the sky. God’s love never fails. He lets the sun rule each day. God’s love never fails. He lets the moon and the stars rule each night. God’s love never fails ... 

God used His great strength and His powerful arm. God’s love never fails. He split the Red Sea apart. God’s love never fails.The Lord brought Israel safely through the sea. God’s love never fails. He destroyed the Egyptian king and his army there. God’s love never fails.The Lord led His people through the desert. God’s love never fails. Our God defeated mighty kings. God’s love never fails. And He killed famous kings. God’s love never fails. 

One of them was Sihon, king of the Amorites. God’s love never fails. Another was King Og of Bashan. God’s love never fails. God took away their land. God’s love never fails. He gave their land to Israel the people who serve Him. God’s love never fails. God saw the trouble we were in. God’s love never fails. He rescued us from our enemies. God’s love never fails. He gives food to all who live. God’s love never fails. Praise God in heaven. God’s love never fails.

So the next time you aren't sure what is happening in your life, take hold of God's promise that still stands true today. That is, Jesus love for you and I never fails. Stand in the offering plate. 

Substitutes Abound But There Is Only One Jesus - Part 846

"Fret not thyself because of evildoers, neither be thou envious against the workers of iniquity. For they shall soon be cut down like the grass, and wither as the green herb. Trust in the Lord, and do good; so shalt thou dwell in the land, and verily thou shalt be fed. Delight thyself also in the Lord: and He shall give thee the desires of thine heart. Commit thy way unto the Lord. Trust also in Him and He shall bring it to pass. And He shall bring forth thy righteousness as the light ... " (Ps.37:1-6)

Repeatedly, in the scriptures, we are warned of false prophets who come in our midst as ravenous wolves in sheep's clothing. (Matt. 7:15). 

Indeed, this is a regular topic here, primarily because so much of the religious culture today is based on long-standing traditions and church philosophies, instead of the Word, as personally delivered by our Lord God our Saviour. 

But today, as I was reading a scriptural passage from another website, I realized that it isn't enough for me to encourage believers to beware of false prophets. These same believers must embed the Word deep into their minds and hearts. We need to get to know Jesus as our personal Lord and Saviour, seeking His righteousness day in and day out -- the One who is the Bread of Life. 

Jesus said, "He that cometh to Me shall never hunger; and he that believeth on Me shall never thirst." (Matthew 6:35, 48-51) This is why we "study to show [our] self approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the Word of truth." (II Timothy 2:15)

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

So why is this important? Because in this day and age, we consume endless mounds of information, and if we don't know the truth, we will be swept away by eloquent teachings and doctrines that have no scriptural basis. Yes, admittedly, verses are cited but the contents therein do not reflect the original scriptural message. In fact, twice this week I have had to look up a verse in the Bible, simply because the message I was reading did not align with the Word.

Today, as I read yet another blog that I had trusted for years, I realized that had I not already known the Word, I would not have recognized that the tale that was being spun did not centre on the gospel of Jesus Christ and His Kingdom. 

So, for the record, I have copied below the entire message in II Peter chapter two -- taken from the King James version. Read the chapter in its entirety and know that the Lord Jesus loves us so much that He would shed His precious blood on the old rugged cross -- for you and I. Stand in the offering plate.

"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.

For if God spared not the angels that sinned, but cast them down to hell, and delivered them into chains of darkness, to be reserved unto judgment; and spared not the old world, but saved Noah the eighth person, a preacher of righteousness, bringing in the flood upon the world of the ungodly; and turning the cities of Sodom and Gomorrha into ashes condemned them with an overthrow, making them an ensample unto those that after should live ungodly; and delivered just Lot, vexed with the filthy conversation of the wicked: (For that righteous man dwelling among them, in seeing and hearing, vexed his righteous soul from day to day with their unlawful deeds;) ...

The Lord knoweth how to deliver the [God-serving] out of temptations, and to reserve the unjust unto the day of judgment to be punished.

But chiefly them that walk after the flesh in the lust of uncleanness, and despise government, presumptuous are they, self willed -- they are not afraid to speak evil of dignities. Whereas angels, which are greater in power and might, bring not railing accusation against them before the Lord ... but these, as natural brute beasts, made to be taken and destroyed, speak evil of the things that they understand not; and shall utterly perish in their own corruption.

And shall receive the reward of unrighteousness, as they that count it pleasure to riot in the day time. Spots they are and blemishes, sporting themselves with their own deceivings while they feast with you; having eyes full of adultery, and that cannot cease from sin; beguiling unstable souls: an heart they have exercised with covetous practices; cursed children: which have forsaken the right way, and are gone astray, following the way of Balaam the son of Bosor, who loved the wages of unrighteousness

But was rebuked for his iniquity: the dumb ass speaking with man's voice forbad the madness of the prophet. These are wells without water, clouds that are carried with a tempest; to whom the mist of darkness is reserved for ever. For when they speak great swelling words of vanity, they allure through the lusts of the flesh, through much wantonness, those that were clean escaped from them who live in error. While they promise them liberty, they themselves are the servants of corruption for of whom a man is overcome, of the same is he brought in bondage.

For if after they have escaped the pollutions of the world through the knowledge of the Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ, they are again entangled therein, and overcome, the latter end is worse with them than the beginning. 

For it had been better for them not to have known the way of righteousness, than, after they have known it, to turn from the holy commandment delivered unto them. But it is happened unto them according to the true proverb, The dog is turned to his own vomit again; and the sow that was washed to her wallowing in the mire." (II Timothy 22:1-22)

Do Not Reject the Cornerstone - Part 845

 As newborn babes, desire the sincere milk of the word, that ye may grow thereby: if [it] so be [that] you have tasted that the Lord is gracious --- to whom coming, as unto a living stone, disallowed indeed of men, but chosen of God, and precious. You also, as lively stones, are built up a spiritual house, an holy priesthood, to offer up spiritual sacrifices, acceptable to God by Jesus Christ.

Wherefore also it is contained in the scripture, Behold, I lay in Sion a chief corner stone, elect, precious: and he that believeth on Him shall not be confounded. Unto you therefore which believe He is precious: but unto them which be disobedient, the stone which the builders disallowed, the same is made the head of the corner. And a stone of stumbling, and a rock of offence, even to them which stumble at the Word, being disobedient: whereunto also they were appointed. 

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 marvellous 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 2:2-10)

Yesterday, we spoke about wisdom and how God was not the author of confusion. Today, we are informed that we will not "stumble at the Word" because the Lord will give us understanding. He will guide us into all truth. This direction and instruction will not just be given in our day to day but in Biblical truths as well. Therefore, our learning will not end at the gospels but we will progress to the Book of Acts, and read how the apostles implemented Jesus' teachings in ministering. 

Therein, water baptism, for example, is clearly explained. As we journey through the book of Acts, we read that every individual baptized did so in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ. The first 3,000 people to be saved on the Day of Pentecost were baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ. 

Indeed, these pricked in their hearts asked Peter, standing with the eleven, "What must we do to be saved?" The answer was specific, and it did not lead to confusion, as some church denominations claim this scripture does today. 

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 God shall call ... and [the 3,000] continued steadfastly in the apostles' doctrine and fellowship, and in breaking of bread, and in prayers, and fear came upon every soul; and many wonders and signs were done y the apostles. And all that believed were together, and had all things in common."

No divisions. No confusion. No arguing about church doctrines. Just a simple acceptance of the truth. In the book of Acts, there are nine accounts of water baptism taking place. Seven of the nine records of baptism pertain to the establishing of six different churches. The remaining baptisms refer to the baptism of the Ethiopian and the baptism of Paul, who was formerly Saul. 

So, just to be clear, the message from Peter and the eleven in Acts chapter two was directed to the church at Jerusalem. Later, in Acts 8:12-17, the people of Samaria believed Phillip's preaching concerning the Kingdom and the name of Jesus Christ. There, both men and women were baptized in the name of Jesus Christ. How did Phillip know to baptize in the name of Jesus Christ? From his home church in Jerusalem.  (Acts 8:34-39)

Water baptism to the church at Caesarea is elaborated on in Acts 10:42-48. While Peter preached Jesus to the Gentiles, the Holy Ghost fell on all that heard the Word. (As an aside, note in Acts 10:36 "The Word which God sent unto the children of Israel, preaching peace by Jesus Christ -- He is Lord of all). The baptisms followed immediately. 

"While Peter yet spake these words, the Holy Ghost fell on them which heard the Word. And they of the circumcision which believed were astonished, as many as came with Peter, because that on the Gentiles also was poured out the gift of the Holy Ghost. For they heard them speak with tongues and magnify God. Then answered Peter, "Can any man forbid water, that these should not be baptized, which have received the Holy Ghost as well as we? And he commanded them to be baptized in the name of the Lord." (Acts 10:44-48)

The church in Philippi had a similar experience in Acts 1:14-34. The first convert was a woman named Lydia, whose heart the Lord opened at the preaching of Paul. As a consequence, both she and her household were baptized. Then the Philippian jailer and his household were baptized, together establishing the first church at Philippi. Although the name of Jesus is not specifically mentioned here, it can be assumed that since Paul baptized the Ephesians in the name of Jesus, he also did so for Lydia and the jailer, and their respective households.

In Acts 18:1-11, we read about Paul's ministry at Corinth. We read that Justus and also Crispus, the chief ruler of the synagogue believed on the Lord with all his house, and many of the Corinthians hearing believed and were baptized. Note that Paul talks about baptism in I Corinthians 1:13 when he states, "Is Christ divided? Was Paul crucified for you? Or were ye baptized in the name of Paul? I thank God that I baptized none of you but Crispus and Gaius; lest any should say that I baptized in mine own name ..." (I Corinthians 1:13-18)

Again, in Acts 19:1-7, we read that Paul baptized those who up until that point knew only the baptism of John -- in the name of Jesus, and they were filled with the Holy Ghost, speaking in tongues and prophesying. The last record of water baptism is explained in Acts 9:1-35, after Saul is converted. Therein, he is instructed to bring the name of Jesus to the Gentiles. "But the Lord said unto Him, Go thy way, for he is a chosen vessel unto Me, to bear My name before the Gentiles, and kings, and the children of Israel, for I will show him how great things he must suffer for My name's sake." (Acts 9:15-16)

Continuing on to verse 27, Barnabas brings Paul to the apostles, declaring unto them how he had seen the Lord in the way, and that He had spoken to him and how he preached boldly at Damascus in the name of Jesus.

"And he spake boldly in the name of the Lord Jesus ..." (Acts 9:29) Chapter 22 elaborates further on Paul's testimony. "The God of our fathers has chosen thee that thou shouldest know His will and see that Just One and shouldest hear the voice of His mouth ..." (Acts 22:14-15) Then Ananias, a devout man according to the law asks, "And now why tarriest thou? Arise and be baptized and wash away thy sins, calling on the name of the Lord." Paul further confirms his baptize in the name of Jesus in Romans 6:3 when he writes, "so many of us as were baptized into Jesus Christ were baptized into His death."

As for Matthew 28:19 (admittedly changed by the Roman Catholic Church), you need to understand that the "name" of the Father, and the "name" of the Son, and the "name" of the holy Spirit is Jesus, and Jesus alone. Praise His holy name. 

Stand in the offering plate.

The LORD By Wisdom Has Founded the Earth - Part 844

"The LORD by wisdom has founded the earth; by understanding hath He established the heavens. By His knowledge the depths are broken up, and the clouds drop down the dew. My son, let not them depart from thine eyes: keep sound wisdom and discretion so shall they be life unto thy soul, and grace to thy neck. Then shalt thou walk in thy way safely, and thy foot shall not stumble. When thou liest down, thou shalt not be afraid: yea, thou shalt lie down, and thy sleep shall be sweet. Be not afraid of sudden fear, neither of the desolation of the wicked, when it cometh.  For the LORD shall be thy confidence, and shall keep thy foot from being taken." (Proverbs 3:19)

One of the treasures that emerges from diligently studying the Word is the revelation and understanding that comes to you and I as a consequence of seeking His righteousness. (Matthew 6:33) Jesus told us that when the Comforter, who is the holy Spirit comes -- whom the Father will send in Jesus name -- He shall teach us all things and bring all things to our remembrance, "whatsoever I have said unto you." (John 14:26) Indeed, He will lead us into all truth. 

Jesus told us that 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 show you things to come." (John 16:13)

So, today, when I was reading about wisdom in Proverbs, I was reminded of the infinite wisdom of God and its origin as the "Word" that we read about so often in the new testament. That is, "In the beginning was the Word and the Word was with God and the Word was God ... and the Word became flesh." (John 1:1-18) 

Further, "For by Him were all things created, that are in heaven, and that are in earth, visible and invisible, whether they be thrones, or dominions, or principalities, or powers. All things were created by Him and for Him ... and He is before all things, and by Him all things consist." (Colossians 1:16-17)

Too often, we think of the Word as a separate entity from our heavenly Father and not one and the same as the scriptures attest. Jesus repeatedly said to the apostles and the crowds that listened, "I and My Father are one. If you have seen Me, you have seen the Father." (John 14:7)

More to this point, Jesus said in John 14, "If ye had known Me, ye should have known My Father also: and from henceforth ye know Him, and have seen Him." 

But unfortunately, not everyone gets it. Certainly, in the beginning, Philip did not. Here he was, walking with Jesus on a daily basis and Philip had to ask Jesus, "Lord, show us the Father, and it sufficeth us." What was Jesus' response?

Jesus said unto Philip, "Have I been so long time with you, and yet hast thou not known Me, Philip? He that hath seen Me hath seen the Father; and how sayest thou then, "Show us the Father?" Believest thou not that I am in the Father, and the Father in Me? The words that I speak unto you I speak not of Myself: but the Father that dwells in Me, He does the works.

Believe Me that I am in the Father, and the Father in Me: or else believe Me for the very works' sake. Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that believeth on Me, the works that I do, shall he do also; and greater works than these shall he do; because I go unto my Father. And whatsoever you shall ask in My name, that will I do, that the Father may be glorified in the Son. If ye shall ask anything in My name, I will do it." (John 14:1-18)

"If ye love Me, keep My commandments. And I will pray the Father, and He shall give you another Comforter that He may abide with you for ever; even the Spirit of truth; whom the world cannot receive, because it sees Him not, neither knows Him: but ye know Him; for He dwells with you, and shall be in you. I will not leave you comfortless: I will come to you." (John 14:1-18)

Jesus -- the Word -- being the wisdom and eternal thought of Almighty God from the very beginning -- this same Almighty God who later -- willingly --became our Saviour, shedding His precious blood on a cross so that you and I could become sons and daughters of the Most High King. The essential wisdom of our Lord personified in sin-prone flesh -- so that our sins could be washed clean forever in His blood. 

So, by now, you are probably asking, what got this thread started? Proverbs chapter eight -- recognized by some as the call of wisdom -- copied for your edification and empowerment below. Thank you Jesus! Stand in the offering plate.

"Doth not wisdom cry? And understanding put forth her voice? She stands in the top of high places, by the way in the places of the paths. She cries at the gates, at the entry of the city, at the coming in at the doors. "Unto you, O men, I call; and My voice is to the sons of man. O ye simple -- understand wisdom: and, ye fools, be ye of an understanding heart. Hear; for I will speak of excellent things; and the opening of My lips shall be right things. For My mouth shall speak truth; and wickedness is an abomination to My lips. All the words of My mouth are in righteousness; there is nothing froward or perverse in them. They are all plain to him that understands, and right to them that find knowledge. Receive My instruction, and not silver; and knowledge rather than choice gold. For wisdom is better than rubies; and all the things that may be desired are not to be compared to it."  I wisdom dwell with prudence, and find out knowledge of witty inventions. The fear of the Lord is to hate evil: pride, and arrogancy, and the evil way, and the froward mouth, do I hate. Counsel is mine, and sound wisdom -- I am understanding -- I have strength. By Me kings reign, and princes decree justice. By Me princes rule, and nobles, even all the judges of the earth.  I love them that love Me; and those that seek Me early shall find Me. Riches and honour are with Me; yea, durable riches and righteousness. My fruit is better than gold, yea, than fine gold; and My revenue than choice silver. I lead in the way of righteousness, in the midst of the paths of judgment: That I may cause those that love Me to inherit substance; and I will fill their treasures.  The Lord possessed Me in the beginning of His way, before His works of old. I was set up from everlasting, from the beginning, or ever the earth was. When there were no depths, I was brought forth; when there were no fountains abounding with water. Before the mountains were settled, before the hills was I brought forth. While as yet, He had not made the earth -- nor the fields -- nor the highest part of the dust of the world. When He prepared the heavens, I was there: when He set a compass upon the face of the depth: When He established the clouds above: when He strengthened the fountains of the deep. When He gave to the sea His decree, that the waters should not pass His commandment: when He appointed the foundations of the earth ... Then I was by Him, as one brought up with Him: and I was daily His delight, rejoicing always before Him. Rejoicing in the habitable part of His earth; and my delights were with the sons of men. Now therefore hearken unto me, O ye children: for blessed are they that keep My ways. Hear instruction, and be wise, and refuse it not. Blessed is the man that hears Me, watching daily at My gates, waiting at the posts of My doors.  For whoso finds Me finds life, and shall obtain favour of the Lord. But he that sins against Me wrongs his own soul: all they that hate Me love death." (Proverbs 8:1-36)

God Is Not the Author of Confusion - Part 843

"What? Came the Word of God out from you? Or came it unto you only? If any man think himself to be a prophet, or spiritual, let him acknowledge that the things that I write unto you are the commandments of the Lord. But if any man be ignorant, let him be ignorant ... Wherefore, brethren, covet to prophesy, and forbid not to speak with tongues. Let all things be done decently and in order." (I Corinthians 14:36-40) 

Yesterday, apparently, people couldn't wait to get ashes put on their forehead as a profession of their faith. But the question is this -- a profession of what faith? The practice of putting ashes on one's forehead certainly does not have its basis in the scriptures. 

Moreover, Jesus did not ask us to wear ashes on our forehead. Never! In fact, Jesus only gave us two commandments to follow -- in this current dispensation of grace. That is, to love Him with all our hearts, souls, minds, and strength, and to love one another. (John 13:34-35; John 15:12-17; Romans 12:10; Romans 13:8)

Indeed, Paul takes this premise one step further, instructing us to stand in the liberty from whence comes our salvation, so that we do not become entangled again in the yoke of bondage, and religious culture(s) that are only too willing to impose even more burdens upon us. Remember, Jesus threw the money changers -- the greedy irreligious, the ungodly and the heretical traders of the day -- out of the temple with a whip for doing everything BUT preaching the good news gospel of Jesus and His kingdom. (Matthew 21:12-13; Mark 11:15) 

Unfortunately, the "religious culture" of this day is still trying to enslave us with teachings that do not accurately reflect the gospel. Indeed, these are still running to and fro, seeking to devour whom they may by making gain from the piety and devoutness of believers in Jesus by faith. 

But none of these practices can be found in the gospel that Jesus and the apostles taught. Thus, it's time for us too -- as believers in Jesus by faith -- to wholly reject these man-made, added and onerous religious duties that are not a part of Jesus' salvation message. This includes the practice of putting ashes on one's forehead.

While the religious might still claim that Ash Wednesday serves as a catalyst for "a period of preparation, and historically, the instruction of persons for baptism and the profession of faith on Easter Sunday," it will not save you from eternal damnation. "For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God." (Ephesians 2:8)

Therefore, our timely response should be repentance, and then baptism in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ (according to Acts 2:38-42). And, in so doing, we our Lord God and Saviour will begin to reveal to us how much He loved us -- in that He who knew no sin would become as one of us and shed His precious blood on a cross. 

So, as the scriptures state, do not become embroiled once again in the bondage that is inherent in the religious culture of this day. Instead, revel in the fact that Almighty God became flesh and dwelt among us so that you and I would be set free. (John 1:1-18) Embrace His truths today. Study His Word daily for understanding. Let His Spirit lead you into all truth. 

"Stand fast therefore in the liberty wherewith Christ has made us free, and be not entangled again with the yoke of bondage. Behold, I Paul say unto you, that if ye be circumcised, Christ shall profit you nothing. For I testify again to every man that is circumcised, that he is a debtor to do the whole law. Christ is become of no effect unto you, whosoever of you are justified by the law; ye are fallen from grace. 

For we through the Spirit wait for the hope of righteousness by faith. For in Jesus Christ neither circumcision availeth anything, nor uncircumcision; but faith which worketh by love. Ye did run well. Who did hinder you that ye should not obey the truth? This persuasion cometh not of Him that called you. A little leaven leaveneth the whole lump.  I have confidence in you through the Lord, that ye will be none otherwise minded: but he that troubleth you shall bear his judgment, whosoever he be. 

And I, brethren, if I yet preach circumcision, why do I yet suffer persecution? Then is the offence of the cross ceased. I would they were even cut off which trouble you. For, brethren, ye have been called unto liberty; only use not liberty for an occasion to the flesh but by love serve one another. For all the law is fulfilled in one word, even in this; Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself." (Galatians 5:1-13)

Jesus said in the book of Revelation, intended for these last days, "Behold, I come quickly; and My reward is with Me, to give every man according as his work shall be. I am Alpha and Omega, the Beginning and the End, the First and the Last. Blessed are they that do His commandments that they may have right to the Tree of Life, and may enter in through the gates into the city." (Revelation 22:12-14) Stand in the offering plate. 

Jesus Declared Himself to Be Almighty God - Part 842

Jesus said, “I and My Father ARE one.” (John 10:30-33) Jesus did not say I and My Father agree. Or, for that matter, neither did Jesus say that He and His Father agree to be one. What Jesus said was, “I and My Father ARE one.” 

And, if you note the reaction of the Jews here -- to what Jesus was actually saying -- there was no mistaking His message. He knew who He was -- God in the flesh -- and so did the Jews. This is why the Jews wanted to stone Jesus. This was the message that the Jews could not accept.

Reading from the tenth chapter of John:

Jesus said, “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.”

Did you catch what was happening here? The Jews wanted to stone Jesus -- not because He healed the sick -- not because He cast out demons in those who were afflicted -- not because He comforted the lonely -- and neither because He associated with people within society who at the time were considered to be outcasts. 

The Jews wanted to stone Jesus because He was making Himself to be God. (Not the Son of God as many in churches today suggest with their religious doctrine of a trinity), but as Almighty God in the flesh Himself. He who knew no sin becoming sin for you and me.

We read the same message about the identity of God in the first chapter of John:

“In the beginning was the Word and the Word was with God and the Word was God. The same was in the beginning with God. All things were made by Him and without Him was not anything made that was made. In Him was life, and the life was the light of men. He came unto His own and His own received Him not. And the Word was made flesh and dwelt among us (and we beheld His glory -- the glory as of the only begotten of the Father) full of grace and truth.

Other scriptures confirm this same point. A sampling includes:

“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)

“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 1:23)

“For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on His shoulders. And He will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.” (Isaiah 9:6)

But I digress. Jesus was in Jerusalem at the Feast of Dedication. It was winter. He had been sharing a parable but there were those in the audience who did not understand it. As a consequence, Jesus teachings were causing division. In the following parable, we see that Jesus is using imagery and analogy to help people understand who He is. But many of those who are listening, as we find out later, do not have the ears to hear.

Still, Jesus begins with a parable about sheep. He said that sheep will hear the Good Shepherd because He calls His sheep by name, and leads them out. The shepherd is not a thief or a robber that attempts to climb in some other way, but because He enters through the door. Jesus continued.

“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.” (John 10:1-5)

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.” (John 10:6-8)

”I am the door: by Me if any man enter in, he shall be saved, and shall go in and out, and find pasture. The thief comes not, but for to steal, and to kill, and to destroy: I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly. I am the Good Shepherd. The Good Shepherd gives His life for the sheep.

But he that is a hireling, and not the Shepherd, whose own the sheep are not, sees the wolf coming, and leaves the sheep, and flees: and the wolf catches them, and scatters the sheep. The hireling flees, because he is a hireling, and cares not for the sheep. I am the Good Shepherd, and know My sheep, and am known of mine.

As the Father knows 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 takes 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.” (John 10:9-18)

But these parables were causing mass confusion to the point of division among those who listened. 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?” When Jesus walked into Solomon`s Porch, the Jews came round about Him.

These same Jews asked Jesus, “How long does 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... 

... Say ye of Him, whom the Father hath sanctified, and sent into the world, Thou blasphemes; because I said “I am the Son of God?” If I do not the works of My Father, believe Me not. But if I do, though ye believe not Me, believe the works: that ye may know, and believe, that the Father is in Me, and I in him.

Therefore they sought again to take Him: but He escaped out of their hand. And went away again beyond Jordan into the place where John at first baptized; and there He abode. And many resorted unto Him, and said, “John did no miracle: but all things that John spake of this man were true.” And many believed on Him there.” (John 10:30-38)

We need to believe on Jesus too -- for who He is. Almighty God in the flesh, loving us so much that He Himself, who knew no sin would bear the cross. Yes, the greatest love story ever told. And the amazing part is that Jesus is still calling us to get to know Him today. 

Ask Jesus into your heart. Study His Word daily. Become effectual in your communications. Stand in the offering plate.

Now Unto Him That Is Able to Do Exceeding Abundantly More Than We Ask - Part 841

"I call heaven and earth to record this day against you, that I have set before you life and death, blessing and cursing: therefore choose life, that both thou and thy seed may live ... that thou mayest love the Lord thy God, and that thou mayest obey His voice, and that thou mayest cleave unto Him: for He is thy life, and the length of thy days." (Deuteronomy 30:19-20)

This particular scriptural passage was scribed in the old testament, under what is recognized today as the old covenant of Law. Since this time, our Lord God has become our Saviour, and torn the veil that stood between us and God from top to bottom. This means that in this current dispensation of grace, we have an opportunity to have a personal relationship with our Lord God and Saviour Jesus the Christ. As such, there is no longer a requirement to go through a priest or clergy to have our transgressions forgiven. Rather, as believers in Jesus by faith, we can approach our High Priest directly for all of our day-to-day longings -- His name is Jesus.

"This is the covenant that I will make with them after those days," saith the Lord, "I will put My laws into their hearts, and in their minds will I write them; and their sins and iniquities will I remember no more." (Hebrews 10:6)

Equally important, we who live in this dispensation of grace can walk in the cool of the day with the Lord, just as Adam and Eve originally did in the Garden. (Genesis 3:8) Although admittedly, the earth we live in now is not one and the same as the original Paradise, we can be confident that when we believe on Jesus, and seek His righteousness, we are not only sons and daughters of the Most High King, but His friends too. 

The other point worth noting here is that we are no longer servants to the Law and commandments. We have an intermediary in Jesus who took our sinful place on the cross so that we could have life eternal. Yes, He died so that we could live. He died so that every one of us who had fallen short of the glory of God by virtue of birth could enter into His peace. His rest. 

In other words, we have been destined into a time when "the law is no longer a shadow of good things to come." That is, the dispensation of grace -- whereby the precious blood of Jesus paid the price for our sins -- past, present and future -- once and for all.

"Wherefore the law WAS our schoolmaster to bring us unto Christ, that we might be justified by faith ... but after that faith is come, we are no longer under a schoolmaster." (Galatians 3:24-25) Isn't that beautiful? We who believe that our Lord loved us enough to become as one of us and then die --have been set free. We can stand fast in the liberty wherewith Christ has made us free and be not entangled again with the yoke of bondage. (Galatians 5:1)

And as a consequence, we no longer need a teacher because we have THE teacher who will teach us all things. Why? Because the same King who commands the universe loves us beyond measure. Yes, Jesus -- who is able to do exceeding abundantly more than we ask. 

Paul wrote: "I should preach among the Gentiles the unsearchable riches of Christ, 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.

To the intent that now unto the principalities and powers in heavenly places might be known by the church the manifold wisdom of God, according to the eternal purpose which He purposed in Christ Jesus our Lord: in whom we have boldness and access with confidence by the faith of Him.

Wherefore I desire that ye faint not at my tribulations for you, which is your glory. For this cause I bow my knees unto the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, of whom the whole family in heaven and earth is named, ... that He would grant you, according to the riches of His glory, to be strengthened with might by His Spirit in the inner man ... that Christ may dwell in your hearts by faith ... that ye, being rooted and grounded in love, may be able to comprehend with all saints ... what is the breadth, and length, and depth, and height; and to know the love of Christ, which passeth knowledge, that ye might be filled with all the fulness of God.

Now unto Him that is able to do exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that worketh in us, unto Him be glory in the church by Christ Jesus throughout all ages, world without end. Amen." (Ephesians 3:8-21) 

Stand in the offering plate.

Do Anything BUT Preach the Name of Jesus, they said - Part 840

As believers in Jesus by faith, we do not have to be filled with confusion. Why? Because when we seek the truth with all our heart, soul, mind and strength, our Lord God and Saviour Jesus the Christ will open our understanding. The apostles already knew this. They realized from personal experience that Jesus never fails, and as such, the apostles were willing to stake their life on His love. 

There is an example worth noting in the fifth chapter of Acts. The pressure was on, and the apostles were told that they could do anything they desired EXCEPT preach in "that name." (Acts 5:28) What name, you ask? Read on ...

During this time, "by the hands of the apostles were many signs and wonders wrought among the people." (Acts 5:12) Consequently, the people magnified the Lord Jesus, and the result was more and more believers were being added to the Lord daily  -- indeed, "multitudes both of men and women." (Acts 5:14)

Conversely, the recognized authorities of the day wanted nothing to do with them. The high priest with the members of council, and all the senate of the children of Israel did not want the apostles preaching and teaching the gospel of His kingdom -- at least, not on their turf.

Imagine the scene. Multitudes of people were bringing forth the sick into the streets and laying them "on beds and couches, that at least the shadow of Peter passing by might overshadow some of them. There came also a multitude out of the cities round about unto Jerusalem, bringing sick folks and them which were vexed with unclean spirits: and they were healed EVERY one." (Acts 5:15-16)

But this was becoming too much for the high priest and all that were with them. These Sadducees were in fact, filled with indignation. So, what did they do?

These men laid their hands on the apostles and threw them into the common prison. But the Lord of lords and King of kings opened the prison doors had a different idea. He said, "Go, stand and speak in the temple to the people all the words of this life." (Acts 5:19-20) What words?

The words that are spirit and life. (John 6:63) The words that speak of eternal life. (John 6:63-68) Jesus had earlier said, "And this is life eternal, that they may know Thee, the only true God and Jesus Christ whom Thou hast sent ... I have manifested Thy name unto the men which Thou gavest Me." (John 17:3,6,8,11, 12-26)

And when the apostles heard this message, they entered the temple early in the morning.

Later, when the high priest came and those that were with him, and called the council together, and all the senate of the children of Israel, they asked for the apostles to be brought from the prison. The doors of the prison were still shut, but by then, the apostles were already preaching and teaching in the temple.

One told them, saying, "Behold, the men whom you put in prison are standing in the temple, and teaching the people." Once again, the captain with the officers brought them from the temple. This was done without violence, given that the captain and officers feared that the multitudes of people would stone them. 

When they had brought the apostles before council, the high priest asked them, "Did not we straightly command you that ye should NOT teach in this name? And, behold, ye have filled Jerusalem with your doctrine, and intend to bring this man's blood upon us." (Acts 5:28)

Which man's blood? As Peter stated, "The God of our fathers raised up Jesus, whom you slew and hanged on a tree -- Him hath God exalted with His right hand to be a Prince and a Saviour -- for to give repentance to Israel, and forgiveness of sins." (Acts 5:30-31)

When the high priest and council heard this, they were cut to the heart and took counsel to slay them. Then stood up one in the council -- a Pharisee named Gamaliel, a doctor of the law, who was very reputable within the community. He said to them:

"Ye men of Israel, take heed to yourselves what ye intend to do as touching these men. For before these days rose up Theudas, boasting himself to be a somebody, to whom a number of men, about four hundred, joined themselves: who was slain, and all, as many as obeyed him, were scattered and brought to nought. After this man rose up Judas of Galilee in the days of the taxing and drew away much people after him: he also perished; and all, even as many as obeyed him, were dispersed. And now I say unto you, Refrain from these men and let them alone; for if this counsel or this work be of men, it will come to nought ... but if it be of God, ye cannot overthrow it; lest haply ye be found even to fight against God." (Acts 5:34-39)

And to him they agreed, and when they had called the apostles, and beaten them, they commanded that they should not speak in the name of Jesus, and let them go. So, what was the name that the apostles were forbidden to speak? Yes, the name of Jesus -- the precious name of Jesus -- the ONLY name under heaven whereby we can inherit eternal life. The ONLY name in which we are instructed to do everything in word or deed, including water baptism. (Acts 2:38-42)

And when the apostles departed from the presence of council, what did they do? The apostles rejoiced -- that they were counted worthy to suffer for His name. And daily in the temple, and in every house, they ceased not to teach and preach Jesus Christ. 

Think about this for a moment! These same apostles whose very shadow healed the sick, and freed those in bondage, were counted "worthy" in the eyes of the Lord for suffering for His name. In spite of being beaten, they rejoiced. But most of all, the apostles never stopped preaching and teaching the name of Jesus. 

Why? Because there is no cease and desist order in this earth that can satisfy one's very soul the way that Jesus -- our Lord God who willingly became our Saviour -- can satisfy. 

Praise Jesus today. Stand in the offering plate.

Sanctify the Lord God in Your Hearts - Part 839

"Therefore, if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature. Old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new." (II Corinthians 5:17) 


As believers in Jesus by faith, we do not have to be beholden to preachers and teachers who do not accurately align their doctrines and teachings with the Word. "For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places." (Ephesians 6:12) 


But neither should we remain in ignorance, with regard to Jesus' teachings. In fact, we are encouraged to "study the Word [daily] to show ourselves approved unto God, a workman that need not be ashamed, rightly dividing the Word of truth." (II Timothy 2:15)

Moreover, when we believe on Jesus by faith, and seek His righteousness, Jesus promised that He would not leave us comfortless. His followers would be guided into all wisdom, knowledge and truth. This includes understanding the mystery which has been hid from ages and from generations -- but is now made manifest to His saints. That is, "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." (Colossians 1:26-27)

Indeed, Jesus said, "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. He shall glorify Me: for He shall receive of Mine, and shall shew it unto you."

But in order for the Comforter to come, Jesus first had to depart. Jesus told His disciples, "It is expedient for you that I go away: for if I go not away, the Comforter will not come unto you. But if I depart, I will send Him unto you. And when He is come, He will reprove the world of sin, and of righteousness, and of judgment, of sin, because they believe not on Me; of righteousness, because I go to My Father, and ye see Me no more. Of judgment, because the prince of this world is judged." (John 16:7-13)

That is not to suggest that believers in Jesus by faith will not be put out of the synagogues and churches. They will. In fact, the time will come when whosoever kills us will think that he is doing God service. 

But Jesus clarified the situation. Jesus said,, "And these things will they do unto you because they have not known the Father, nor Me ... but these things have I told you, that when the time shall come, ye may remember that I told you of them." (John 16:1-4)

But when "the Spirit of truth, is come, He will guide you into all truth."

"All things that the Father hath are Mine. Therefore, said I, that He shall take of Mine, and shall shew it unto you. A little while, and ye shall not see Me: and again, a little while, and ye shall see Me, because I go to the Father."

Then said some of his disciples among themselves, "What is this that He saith unto us, "A little while, and ye shall not see Me: and again, a little while, and ye shall see Me," and, "Because I go to the Father?" They said therefore, "What is this that He saith, "A little while?" We cannot tell what He saith."

Now Jesus knew that they were desirous to ask Him, and said unto them, "Do ye enquire among yourselves of that I said, "A little while, and ye shall not see Me:" and again, a little while, and ye shall see Me?"

"Verily, verily, I say unto you, "That ye shall weep and lament, but the world shall rejoice: and ye shall be sorrowful, but your sorrow shall be turned into joy. A woman when she is in travail hath sorrow, because her hour is come: but as soon as she is delivered of the child, she remembers no more the anguish, for joy that a man is born into the world. And ye now therefore have sorrow: but I will see you again, and your heart shall rejoice, and your joy no man taketh from you."

And in that day ye shall ask Me nothing. "Verily, verily, I say unto you, Whatsoever ye shall ask the Father in My name, He will give it you. Hitherto have ye asked nothing in My name: ask, and ye shall receive, that your joy may be full."

These things have I spoken unto you in proverbs: but the time comes, when I shall no more speak unto you in proverbs, but I shall shew you plainly of the Father. At that day, ye shall ask in My name: and I say not unto you, that I will pray the Father for you. For the Father Himself loves you, because ye have loved Me, and have believed that I came out from God.

"I came forth from the Father, and am come into the world: again, I leave the world, and go to the Father."

His disciples said unto [Jesus], "Lo, now speakest thou plainly, and speakest no proverb. Now are we sure that Thou knowest all things, and needest not that any man should ask Thee: by this we believe that Thou camest forth from God."

Jesus answered them, "Do ye now believe? Behold, the hour cometh, yea, is now come, that ye shall be scattered, every man to his own, and shall leave me alone: and yet I am not alone, because the Father is with Me. These things I have spoken unto you, that in Me ye might have peace. In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world." (John 16-1-33)

Stand in the offering plate.

But if Our Gospel Be Hid, It Is Hid to Them That Are Lost - Part 838

Jesus said, "He that believes on Me believes not on Me, but on Him that sent Me ... and He that sees Me, sees Him that sent Me." (John 12:44-45) 

"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)

The Godhead is simple. There is only One God, and this same Almighty God -- who in the very beginning breathed the breath of life into our nostrils -- became our Lord and Saviour. His name is Jesus. Understandably, explaining the Godhead to new believers can be difficult. It can be particularly challenging when all one has heard in their life are the false trinitarian doctrines emanating from the current religious culture. The churches that talk about God as a triune God, or three in one.

Know that you are not alone. At times, Jesus' apostles struggled with understanding His teachings.

"These things understood not His disciples, at the first; but when Jesus was glorified, then remembered they that these things were written of Him, and that they had done these things unto Him." (John 12:16)

Therefore, like the apostles, the truth of the gospel of Jesus Christ and His identity is revealed to us when we press closer to Jesus. When we seek first the Kingdom of God and His righteousness with all our minds, our hearts, our souls and our strength. When we make a conscious decision to learn firsthand from the Word who has blessed us with all spiritual blessings in heavenly places in Christ. And likewise, we do all things in word or deed in His name.

The Apostle Paul encourages us in Ephesians to no longer be strangers from the covenants of promise in which we formerly had no hope because we now have an opportunity to personally know the King of kings and Lord of lords, and to be His sons and daughters -- His friends. 

"But now," Paul writes, "in Christ Jesus ye who once were far off are made nigh by the blood of Christ for He [Himself] is our peace, who hath made both one, and hath broken down the middle wall of partition [division] 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, that He might reconcile both unto God in one body by the cross, having slain the enmity thereby ... for through Him we both have access by one spirit unto the Father." (Ephesians 2:13-18)

The first chapter of Colossians elaborates further: "For it pleased the Father that in Him should all fulness dwell, and having made peace through the blood of His cross, by Him to reconcile all things unto Himself, by Him, I say, whether they be things in earth, or things in heaven, and you that were sometimes alienated and enemies in your mind by wicked works, yet now hath He reconciled ... in the body of His flesh through death, to present you holy and unblameable and unreproveable in His sight." (Colossians 1:19-22)

What is the catch? The scriptures state ... "If you continue in the faith grounded and settled, and be not moved away from the hope of the gospel, which ye have heard, and which was preached to every creature which is under heaven." (Colossians 1:23)

 Indeed, continue steadfastly in the faith so "that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of glory, may give unto you the spirit of wisdom and revelation in the knowledge of Him; [and that] the eyes of your understanding being enlightened, that ye may know what is the hope of His calling, and the riches of the glory of His inheritance in the saints, and what is the exceeding greatness of His power to us-ward who believe, according to the working of His mighty power ..." (Ephesians 1:17-20)

Remember too, that "He has chosen us in Him before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy and without blame before Him in love ... having predestinated us before the adoption of children by Jesus Christ to Himself, according to the good pleasure of His will ... to the praise of the glory of His grace, wherein He hath made us accepted in the beloved.

In whom we have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of sins, according to the riches of His grace .. wherein He hath abounded toward us in all wisdom and prudence; having made known unto us the mystery of His will, according to His good pleasure, which He hath purposed in Himself .. that in the dispensation of the fulness of times, He might gather together in one all things in Christ, both which are in heaven and which are on earth; even in Him.

In whom also we have obtained an inheritance, being predestinated according to the purpose of Him who works all things after the counsel of His own will; that we should be to the praise of His glory, who first trusted in Christ.

In whom ye also trusted, after that ye heard the Word of truth, the gospel of your salvation; in whom also after that ye believed, ye were sealed with that holy Spirit of promise, which is the earnest of our inheritance until the redemption of the purchased possession unto the praise of His glory -- wherefore I also, after I heard of your faith in the Lord Jesus and love unto all the saints, cease not to give thanks." (Ephesians 1:4-23)

Praise Jesus. Stand in the offering plate.