"But the anointing which YOU HAVE RECEIVED OF HIM ABIDES IN YOU AND YOU 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 has taught you, ye shall abide in Him." (I John 2:27)
Jesus -- the bread of life. The same Jesus that said, "He that comes to Me shall never hunger ... and he that believes on Me shall never thirst." (John 6:35) The same Jesus who told us, "but whosoever drinketh of the water that I shall give him shall NEVER thirst; but the water that I shall give him shall be in him a well of water springing up into everlasting life." (John 4:14)
So it should not come as a surprise that when Jesus asked the disciples if they too would go away that Simon Peter answered saying, "Lord, to whom shall we go? Thou hast the words of eternal life." (John 6:67-68)
Indeed, Jesus does have the words of eternal life. Only He can breathe into us His words of eternal life wherein we will never thirst again. No religious leader or theologian has the power. Nor can a religious leader give us the bread which Jesus gives -- wherein we will never hunger again.
So the question is why do we think the religiouscan? Why do we follow them as if these are idols instead of the real Jesus, who is willing to teach us all things? The same Jesus in whom we can confidently state, "I can do all things through Jesus Christ who strengthens me."
Paul wrote, "If ye have heard of the dispensation of the grace of God, which is given me to you-ward; how that by revelation He made known unto me the mystery (as I wrote afore in few words) whereby, when you read, you may understand my knowledge in the mystery of Christ -- 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 -- that the Gentiles should be fellow heirs and of the same body, and partakers of His promise in Christ by the gospel ..."
"... 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." (Ephesians 3:1-11)
This is why we seek Jesus and His righteousness with all our heart, soul, mind and strength -- so that He will fill us with His Spirit --- the Comforter who will lead and guide us into all truth. Therefore, drink from the pure river of water of life that is clear as crystal and proceeds out of the throne of God and of the Lamb. Why? So that we will never thirst again. So that we will never hunger. And so we will have peace that surpasses all human understanding.
Jesus confirmed this when He said, "Blessed are they which do hunger and thirst after righteousness: for they shall be filled." (Matthew 5:6)
Abide in Jesus today. Stand in the offering plate.
All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness
Monday, April 21, 2014
Friday, April 18, 2014
As You Embark on This Faith Journey in Jesus - Part 888
"And now abide faith, hope, love, these three; but the greatest of these is love." (I Corinthians 13:13)
Now the end of the commandment is charity out of a pure heart, and of a good conscience, and of faith unfeigned: from which some having turned aside unto vain jangling, desiring to be teachers of the Law, neither understanding what they say, nor whereof they affirm. (I Timothy 1:4-7)
This is not to suggest that the Law can not be good or profitable for our lives, but as the scriptures add -- "if a man use it lawfully." (I Timothy 1:8)
Unfortunately, there are those entangled in the religious culture of this day who in their desire to become teachers still demand that believers on this side of the cross adhere to the Law in all aspects, including tithing. But note what the scriptures state. "Neither understanding what they say, nor whereof they affirm." (I Timothy 1:7)
Why is this important? Because the Word teaches us that "now" -- in this current dispensation of grace -- the Law is not made for a righteous man ... "but for the lawless and disobedient, for the ungodly and for sinners, for unholy and profane, for murderers of fathers and murderers of mothers, for manslayers, menstealers, for liars, for perjured persons." (I Timothy 1:9-10)
As such, we are to recognize that the Law served as a schoolmaster in order to bring us to the author and finisher of our salvation -- so that we would recognize that "all have sinned and come short of the glory of God." (Romans 3:23) We failed miserably, because even when we desired to do that which was right, we could never measure up to the holy precepts of our Lord God Almighty that existed under the old covenant.
But the good news is that even before the world was shaped, the Lord God -- our Creator -- devised a plan that we might experience His salvation through faith in Jesus.
"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)
This is not to suggest that we ignore the contents of what is written within the Law. Even Jesus said, "Think not that I am come to destroy the Law, or the prophets. I am not come to destroy but to fulfil. For verily I say unto you, "Till heaven and earth pass, one jot or one title shall in no wise pass from the Law, till all be fulfilled.
Whosoever therefore shall break one of these least commandments, and teach men so, he shall be called the least in the kingdom of heaven. But whosoever shall do and teach them, the same shall be called great in the kingdom of heaven." (Matthew 5:17-19)
But Jesus also said, "That except your righteousness shall EXCEED the righteousness of the scribes and Pharisees, ye shall in no case enter into the kingdom of heaven." (Matthew 5:20)
That means if traditional teaching recognizes that in order to become a Pharisee, one had to memorize the first five books of the Old Testament and recite the verses from heart, then we even more so should diligently seek His instruction and guidance for our life through His Word.
Only then will we begin to understand that when we believe on Jesus and seek His righteousness, our hearts and inner desires are renewed. We become transformed knowing that there is "now" -- in this current dispensation of grace -- "no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit." (Romans 8:1)
This is why we as believers in Jesus no longer desire instruction which is "contrary to sound doctrine." (I Timothy 1:10) Not because the old covenant Law can't help to keep us on the straight and narrow - what some might call right living -- but because we have personally discovered the author and finisher of our faith who dwells within us who leads us in spirit and truth every day.
In other words, we have discovered Jesus -- His love, His mercy, His joy and peace, His grace which surpasses all human understanding. This is why we stand on His Word and not necessarily the teachings of those who desire that we remain under a man-made ministry, "neither understanding what they say, nor whereof they affirm." (I Timothy 1:7)
Therefore, align your understanding "according to the glorious gospel of the blessed God" because even as we were yet sinners, He who knew no sin loved us enough to shed His precious blood on a cross for us. (I Timothy 1:10; II Corinthians 5:21; I John 4:19; John 1:1-18)
And as you embark on this faith journey, rejoice always and be thankful that we serve a Lord God and Saviour who hears our cry. Search His Word today, seeking His wisdom and knowledge for your life. Stand in the offering plate.
This is not to suggest that the Law can not be good or profitable for our lives, but as the scriptures add -- "if a man use it lawfully." (I Timothy 1:8)
Unfortunately, there are those entangled in the religious culture of this day who in their desire to become teachers still demand that believers on this side of the cross adhere to the Law in all aspects, including tithing. But note what the scriptures state. "Neither understanding what they say, nor whereof they affirm." (I Timothy 1:7)
Why is this important? Because the Word teaches us that "now" -- in this current dispensation of grace -- the Law is not made for a righteous man ... "but for the lawless and disobedient, for the ungodly and for sinners, for unholy and profane, for murderers of fathers and murderers of mothers, for manslayers, menstealers, for liars, for perjured persons." (I Timothy 1:9-10)
As such, we are to recognize that the Law served as a schoolmaster in order to bring us to the author and finisher of our salvation -- so that we would recognize that "all have sinned and come short of the glory of God." (Romans 3:23) We failed miserably, because even when we desired to do that which was right, we could never measure up to the holy precepts of our Lord God Almighty that existed under the old covenant.
But the good news is that even before the world was shaped, the Lord God -- our Creator -- devised a plan that we might experience His salvation through faith in Jesus.
"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)
This is not to suggest that we ignore the contents of what is written within the Law. Even Jesus said, "Think not that I am come to destroy the Law, or the prophets. I am not come to destroy but to fulfil. For verily I say unto you, "Till heaven and earth pass, one jot or one title shall in no wise pass from the Law, till all be fulfilled.
Whosoever therefore shall break one of these least commandments, and teach men so, he shall be called the least in the kingdom of heaven. But whosoever shall do and teach them, the same shall be called great in the kingdom of heaven." (Matthew 5:17-19)
But Jesus also said, "That except your righteousness shall EXCEED the righteousness of the scribes and Pharisees, ye shall in no case enter into the kingdom of heaven." (Matthew 5:20)
That means if traditional teaching recognizes that in order to become a Pharisee, one had to memorize the first five books of the Old Testament and recite the verses from heart, then we even more so should diligently seek His instruction and guidance for our life through His Word.
Only then will we begin to understand that when we believe on Jesus and seek His righteousness, our hearts and inner desires are renewed. We become transformed knowing that there is "now" -- in this current dispensation of grace -- "no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit." (Romans 8:1)
"For the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus hath made [us] free from the Law of sin and death. For what the Law could not do, in that it was weak through the flesh, God sending His own begotten Son in the likeness of sinful flesh, and for sin, condemned sin in the flesh: that the righteousness of the Law might be fulfilled in us, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit.
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." (Romans 8:1-5)
This is why we as believers in Jesus no longer desire instruction which is "contrary to sound doctrine." (I Timothy 1:10) Not because the old covenant Law can't help to keep us on the straight and narrow - what some might call right living -- but because we have personally discovered the author and finisher of our faith who dwells within us who leads us in spirit and truth every day.
In other words, we have discovered Jesus -- His love, His mercy, His joy and peace, His grace which surpasses all human understanding. This is why we stand on His Word and not necessarily the teachings of those who desire that we remain under a man-made ministry, "neither understanding what they say, nor whereof they affirm." (I Timothy 1:7)
Rather, we have seen the power of our God and Saviour working miraculously in our life -- beyond what we could ever have imagined, and therefore, are willing to search the scriptures daily for His truth.
"Howbeit for this cause I obtained mercy, that in me first Jesus Christ might shew forth all longsuffering, for a pattern to them which should hereafter believe on Him to life everlasting. Now unto the King eternal, immortal, invisible, the ONLY wise God, be honour and glory for ever and ever. Amen." (I Timothy 1:16-17)
Therefore, align your understanding "according to the glorious gospel of the blessed God" because even as we were yet sinners, He who knew no sin loved us enough to shed His precious blood on a cross for us. (I Timothy 1:10; II Corinthians 5:21; I John 4:19; John 1:1-18)
And as you embark on this faith journey, rejoice always and be thankful that we serve a Lord God and Saviour who hears our cry. Search His Word today, seeking His wisdom and knowledge for your life. Stand in the offering plate.
Thursday, April 17, 2014
Son, Be of Good Cheer - Part 887
"A merry heart doeth good [like] a medicine ..." (Proverbs 17:22)
And as Jesus entered into a ship, and passed over, He came into His own city. And behold, they brought to Him a man sick of the palsy, lying on a bed. Jesus, seeing their faith said unto the sick of the palsy, "Son, be of good cheer. Thy sins be forgiven thee." (Matthew 9:1-2)
But not everyone would accept the man's healing. Certain of the scribes said within themselves, "This man blasphemes." Jesus, who knew all things, and particularly their inner thoughts said, "Wherefore think ye evil in your hearts? For whether is easier to say, "Thy sins be forgiven thee" or to say, "Arise and walk?" [Or] that ye may know that the Son of man hath power on earth to forgive sins." (Matthew 9:3-6)
What happens next? Jesus said to the man, "Arise, take up thy bed and go unto thine house."
And the man arose and departed to his house. The multitudes saw the miracle and marvelled. But that wasn't all the people did. The scriptures point out that these very same multitudes "glorified God which had given such power unto men." (Matthew 9:9)
But the Pharisees were not happy with the situation. Indeed, the Pharisees began openly criticizing Jesus. In response, Jesus pointed out the obvious. That is,
"They that be whole need not a physician but they that are sick." (Matthew 9:10)
Two important points emerge in this example. The first is the sign of an inward change for the man who was healed. He claimed his healing when Jesus said, "Son, be of good cheer. Thy sins be forgiven thee." (Matthew 9:1-2)
The man's inward heart had changed. Here he was experiencing the kind of "good cheer" that only our Lord God and Saviour can give. The peace and joy on the inside that only those who love Jesus with all their heart, soul, mind and strength can know. The jumping for joy that bubbles up from the inside. A merry heart does good like medicine. (Proverbs 17:22)
But there was more. Jesus told the Pharisees: "But go ye and learn what that means, "I will have mercy and not sacrifice, for I am not come to call the righteous but sinners to repentance." (Matthew 9:10-13: Hosea 6:1-3, 6-7; I Timothy 1:15)
Jesus was telling them to go and search the scriptures for had they already done so, these Pharisees would have known the promises that were written in Hosea. That is,
"Come, and let us return unto the Lord: for He hath torn, and He will heal us; He hath smitten, and He will bind us up. After two days will He revive us: in the third day He will raise us up, and we shall live in His sight. Then shall we know, if we follow on to know the Lord, His going forth is prepared as the morning -- and He shall come unto us as the rain, as the latter and former rain unto the earth." (Hosea 6:1-3)
But instead, the Pharisees were akin to those described in the book of Ezekiel:
"The diseased have ye not strengthened, neither have ye healed that which was sick, neither have ye bound up [that which was] broken, neither have ye brought again that which was driven away, neither have ye sought that which was lost; but with force and with cruelty have ye ruled them." (Ezekiel 34:4)
Wow! Rather than seek the goodness and grace of the Lord -- the same Lord God who bore all of our sins and sickness on the cross -- the Pharisees desire was to keep the people broken and sick. The same situation exists today. Rather than believe that the same God who controls the universe is still healing those who are sick, the religious community presents a view that miraculous healings ended with the apostles.
Just like the unbelieving Jews did in Acts 14. Therein the unbelieving Jews stirred up the Gentiles and made their minds evil affected against the brethren.
Even so, "long time therefore abode the [apostles] speaking boldly in the Lord, which gave testimony unto the Word of His grace, and granted signs and wonders to be done by their hands." (Acts 14:3)
Why? Because the apostles had experienced firsthand the joy of the Lord Jesus in their hearts. Jesus -- who forgives all thine iniquities -- Jesus -- who heals all thy diseases. (Psalms 103:3) Jesus -- by whose stripes we were and are healed. Under no circumstance were the apostles going to let satan steal their joy.
"The prayer of faith SHALL save the sick, and the Lord SHALL raise him up, and if he have committed sins, they SHALL be forgiven him." (James 5:15)
"For through Him we both have access by one Spirit unto the Father .... the manifestation of the Spirit is given to EVERY man to profit withal" (Ephesians 2:18; I Corinthians 12:1-31) How can this be? Because our Lord Jesus is an awesome God who loves us more than we could ever begin to fathom.
"He sent His Word and healed them, and delivered [them] from their destructions." (Psalm 107:19-20)
"He [was] wounded for our transgressions, [He was] bruised for our iniquities: the chastisement of our peace [was] upon Him; and with His stripes we are healed." (Isaiah 53:5)
Don't let the religious culture and false prophets of this day tell you that miracles and healings are no longer valid within the body of Christ. And don't allow those who do not know the peace of Jesus steal your joy.
Because "NOW therefore you 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 grows unto an holy temple in the Lord -- in whom ye also are builded together an habitation of God through the Spirit." (Ephesians 2:18-22)
And unto you and I who worship Him in spirit and in truth, will Jesus -- "with healing in His wings" send us forth rejoicing-- because He will never leave us or forsake us, even in adversity. "Be of good cheer!" Stand in the offering plate.
And as Jesus entered into a ship, and passed over, He came into His own city. And behold, they brought to Him a man sick of the palsy, lying on a bed. Jesus, seeing their faith said unto the sick of the palsy, "Son, be of good cheer. Thy sins be forgiven thee." (Matthew 9:1-2)
But not everyone would accept the man's healing. Certain of the scribes said within themselves, "This man blasphemes." Jesus, who knew all things, and particularly their inner thoughts said, "Wherefore think ye evil in your hearts? For whether is easier to say, "Thy sins be forgiven thee" or to say, "Arise and walk?" [Or] that ye may know that the Son of man hath power on earth to forgive sins." (Matthew 9:3-6)
What happens next? Jesus said to the man, "Arise, take up thy bed and go unto thine house."
And the man arose and departed to his house. The multitudes saw the miracle and marvelled. But that wasn't all the people did. The scriptures point out that these very same multitudes "glorified God which had given such power unto men." (Matthew 9:9)
But the Pharisees were not happy with the situation. Indeed, the Pharisees began openly criticizing Jesus. In response, Jesus pointed out the obvious. That is,
"They that be whole need not a physician but they that are sick." (Matthew 9:10)
Two important points emerge in this example. The first is the sign of an inward change for the man who was healed. He claimed his healing when Jesus said, "Son, be of good cheer. Thy sins be forgiven thee." (Matthew 9:1-2)
The man's inward heart had changed. Here he was experiencing the kind of "good cheer" that only our Lord God and Saviour can give. The peace and joy on the inside that only those who love Jesus with all their heart, soul, mind and strength can know. The jumping for joy that bubbles up from the inside. A merry heart does good like medicine. (Proverbs 17:22)
But there was more. Jesus told the Pharisees: "But go ye and learn what that means, "I will have mercy and not sacrifice, for I am not come to call the righteous but sinners to repentance." (Matthew 9:10-13: Hosea 6:1-3, 6-7; I Timothy 1:15)
Jesus was telling them to go and search the scriptures for had they already done so, these Pharisees would have known the promises that were written in Hosea. That is,
"Come, and let us return unto the Lord: for He hath torn, and He will heal us; He hath smitten, and He will bind us up. After two days will He revive us: in the third day He will raise us up, and we shall live in His sight. Then shall we know, if we follow on to know the Lord, His going forth is prepared as the morning -- and He shall come unto us as the rain, as the latter and former rain unto the earth." (Hosea 6:1-3)
But instead, the Pharisees were akin to those described in the book of Ezekiel:
"The diseased have ye not strengthened, neither have ye healed that which was sick, neither have ye bound up [that which was] broken, neither have ye brought again that which was driven away, neither have ye sought that which was lost; but with force and with cruelty have ye ruled them." (Ezekiel 34:4)
Wow! Rather than seek the goodness and grace of the Lord -- the same Lord God who bore all of our sins and sickness on the cross -- the Pharisees desire was to keep the people broken and sick. The same situation exists today. Rather than believe that the same God who controls the universe is still healing those who are sick, the religious community presents a view that miraculous healings ended with the apostles.
Just like the unbelieving Jews did in Acts 14. Therein the unbelieving Jews stirred up the Gentiles and made their minds evil affected against the brethren.
Even so, "long time therefore abode the [apostles] speaking boldly in the Lord, which gave testimony unto the Word of His grace, and granted signs and wonders to be done by their hands." (Acts 14:3)
Why? Because the apostles had experienced firsthand the joy of the Lord Jesus in their hearts. Jesus -- who forgives all thine iniquities -- Jesus -- who heals all thy diseases. (Psalms 103:3) Jesus -- by whose stripes we were and are healed. Under no circumstance were the apostles going to let satan steal their joy.
There is an interesting scriptural passage in Isaiah that comes to mind.
"I have seen his ways, and will heal him: I will lead him also, and restore comforts unto him and to his mourners. I create the fruit of the lips; "Peace, peace to [him that is] far off, and to [him that is] near," saith the LORD, "and I will heal him." But the wicked [are] like the troubled sea, when it cannot rest, whose waters cast up mire and dirt. "[There is] no peace," saith my God, "to the wicked." (Isaiah 57:18-21)
But it doesn't have to be this way. Now is the time to "take the stumbling block out of the way of [His] people." (Isaiah 57:14)
"The prayer of faith SHALL save the sick, and the Lord SHALL raise him up, and if he have committed sins, they SHALL be forgiven him." (James 5:15)
"For through Him we both have access by one Spirit unto the Father .... the manifestation of the Spirit is given to EVERY man to profit withal" (Ephesians 2:18; I Corinthians 12:1-31) How can this be? Because our Lord Jesus is an awesome God who loves us more than we could ever begin to fathom.
"He sent His Word and healed them, and delivered [them] from their destructions." (Psalm 107:19-20)
"He [was] wounded for our transgressions, [He was] bruised for our iniquities: the chastisement of our peace [was] upon Him; and with His stripes we are healed." (Isaiah 53:5)
Don't let the religious culture and false prophets of this day tell you that miracles and healings are no longer valid within the body of Christ. And don't allow those who do not know the peace of Jesus steal your joy.
Because "NOW therefore you 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 grows unto an holy temple in the Lord -- in whom ye also are builded together an habitation of God through the Spirit." (Ephesians 2:18-22)
And unto you and I who worship Him in spirit and in truth, will Jesus -- "with healing in His wings" send us forth rejoicing-- because He will never leave us or forsake us, even in adversity. "Be of good cheer!" Stand in the offering plate.
Wednesday, April 16, 2014
Give Attention to Reading, to Exhortation, to Doctrine - Part 886
"Yield yourselves unto God -- as those that are alive from the dead, and your members as instruments of righteousness unto God, for sin SHALL NOT have dominion over you -- for you are not under the law but under grace." (Romans 6:12-14)
Moreover, the scriptures tell us that when we were set free from sin, we became the servants of righteousness. (Romans 6:18) "No longer is the wages of sin death but we receive eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord." (Romans 6:23) And because we become spiritually minded through the study of His Word -- like a workman studying to show his or herself approved -- we discover His peace (Romans 8:8)
But the promises of our Lord God and Saviour do not stop there. "We know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to His purpose." (Romans 8:28) And we also know, as Jesus said, "Ye have not chosen Me but I have chosen you and ordained you that you should go and bring forth fruit; and that your fruit should remain, that whatsoever ye shall ask of the Father in My name, He may give it to you." (John 15:16)
So worship the Lord with all your heart, soul, strength and mind. "Stir up the gift of God which is in thee ... for God hath NOT given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind." (II Timothy 1:6-7)
Stand in the offering plate.
But the promises of our Lord God and Saviour do not stop there. "We know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to His purpose." (Romans 8:28) And we also know, as Jesus said, "Ye have not chosen Me but I have chosen you and ordained you that you should go and bring forth fruit; and that your fruit should remain, that whatsoever ye shall ask of the Father in My name, He may give it to you." (John 15:16)
So worship the Lord with all your heart, soul, strength and mind. "Stir up the gift of God which is in thee ... for God hath NOT given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind." (II Timothy 1:6-7)
Stand in the offering plate.
Redeemed by God Himself as a Son - Part 885
Up until the cross, there was none righteous -- no not one. (Romans 3:10)
The scriptures state: "there is none that understands. There is none that seeketh after God. They are all gone out of the way. They are together become unprofitable; there is none that doeth good, no not one. Their throat is an open sepulchre; with their tongues they have used deceit; the poison of asps is under their lips; whose mouth is full of cursing and bitterness; their feet are swift to shed blood. Destruction and misery are in their ways, and the way of peace have they not known. There is no fear of God before their eyes." (Romans 3:10-18)
The scriptures state: "there is none that understands. There is none that seeketh after God. They are all gone out of the way. They are together become unprofitable; there is none that doeth good, no not one. Their throat is an open sepulchre; with their tongues they have used deceit; the poison of asps is under their lips; whose mouth is full of cursing and bitterness; their feet are swift to shed blood. Destruction and misery are in their ways, and the way of peace have they not known. There is no fear of God before their eyes." (Romans 3:10-18)
In other words, we have all fallen short of the glory of God.
The good news is that we don't have to stay there. God prepared a way for us to experience His love -- even when there was no way. Yes, the same God who created the world and knew no sin was willing to take on a sin-prone flesh so that we might be saved.
Yes, God Himself in the form of a son willingly became our Saviour. He came to sacrifice Himself. He offered His own flesh so that we might receive His free gift of salvation. And He sacrificed His own blood, thus paying the price for our transgressions once and for all.
He, God Himself as a son conceived of the Holy Ghost (as a child) to be veiled in sinful flesh , thereby enabling the predetermined counsel of God to be manifest in the flesh. What do the scriptures state? He was in the world and the world made by Him but the world knew Him not. This same God manifest in the flesh. The same God that John states -- his own hands having handled the Word of Life.
And His name is Jesus -- the only name under heaven whereby we must be saved. Jesus, the only priestly mediator presenting Himself to the world, causing the veil of the temple to be rent in two from top to bottom. He did so for us. So that we who believe in Him can come boldly to His throne of grace.
Trust Jesus today. Diligently read His Word for your wisdom and knowledge. Stand in the offering plate.
The good news is that we don't have to stay there. God prepared a way for us to experience His love -- even when there was no way. Yes, the same God who created the world and knew no sin was willing to take on a sin-prone flesh so that we might be saved.
Yes, God Himself in the form of a son willingly became our Saviour. He came to sacrifice Himself. He offered His own flesh so that we might receive His free gift of salvation. And He sacrificed His own blood, thus paying the price for our transgressions once and for all.
He, God Himself as a son conceived of the Holy Ghost (as a child) to be veiled in sinful flesh , thereby enabling the predetermined counsel of God to be manifest in the flesh. What do the scriptures state? He was in the world and the world made by Him but the world knew Him not. This same God manifest in the flesh. The same God that John states -- his own hands having handled the Word of Life.
And His name is Jesus -- the only name under heaven whereby we must be saved. Jesus, the only priestly mediator presenting Himself to the world, causing the veil of the temple to be rent in two from top to bottom. He did so for us. So that we who believe in Him can come boldly to His throne of grace.
Trust Jesus today. Diligently read His Word for your wisdom and knowledge. Stand in the offering plate.
Who Gave Himself a Ransom for All - Part 884
"These things command and teach .... Give attendance to reading, to exhortation, to doctrine. Neglect not the gift that is in thee, which was given thee by prophecy, with the laying on of hands of the presbytery. Meditate upon these things; give thyself wholly to them; that thy profiting may appear to all. Take heed unto thyself and unto the doctrine; continue in them; for in doing this shalt both save thyself, and them that hear thee." (I Timothy 4:11-16)
Paul, an apostle of Jesus Christ by the commandment of God our Saviour and Lord Jesus Christ which is our hope delivers an epistle to Timothy. The reason given in the first few verses of I Timothy is "that they teach no other doctrine --- neither give heed to fables and endless genealogies, which minister questions."
Instead, Paul instructed Timothy (and us by extension) to godly edifying which is in faith. "And the grace of our Lord was exceeding abundant with faith and love which is in Christ Jesus -- this is a faithful saying, and worthy of all acceptation, that Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners. (I Timothy 1:14-15)
Paul delivers essentially the same message in Titus except that therein he adds: "according to the faith of of God's elect, and the acknowledging of the truth which is after godliness; in hope of eternal life, which God, that cannot lie, promised before the world began; but hath in due times manifested His Word through preaching, which is committed unto me according to the commandment of God our Saviour ... to Titus, mine own son after the common faith: Grace, mercy, and peace from God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ our Saviour." (Titus 1:1-4)
No contradictions but in perfection, these messages written so that we can know His Word -- the mind of our Lord God and Saviour, Jesus the Christ.
"Moreover, brethren, I declare unto you the gospel which I preached unto you which also ye have received and wherein ye stand ... by which also ye are saved, if you keep in memory what I preached unto you, unless ye have believed in vain. For I delivered unto you first of all that which I also received -- how that Christ died for our sins according to the scriptures -- and that He was buried and that He rose again on the third day according to the scriptures." (I Corinthians 15:1-4)
"And I thank Christ Jesus our Lord, who hath enabled me for that He counted me faithful, putting me into the ministry; who was before a blasphemer and a persecutor and injurious: but I obtained mercy, because I did it ignorantly in unbelief. And the grace of our Lord was exceeding abundant with faith and love which is in Christ Jesus.
This is a faithful saying, and worthy of all acceptation, that Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners; of whom I am chief. Howbeit for this cause I obtained mercy, that in me first Jesus Christ might show forth all longsuffering, for a pattern to them which should hereafter believe on him to life everlasting.
Now unto the King eternal, immortal, invisible, the only wise God, be honour and glory for ever and ever. Amen." (I Timothy 1:12-17)
"This charge I commit unto thee, son Timothy, according to the prophecies which went before on thee, that thou by them mightest war a good warfare; holding faith, and a good conscience; which some having put away concerning faith have made shipwreck: of whom is Hymenaeus and Alexander; whom I have delivered unto Satan, that they may learn not to blaspheme." (I Timothy 1:18-20)
But Paul does not stop there. He writes: "I exhort therefore, that, first of all, supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks, be made for all men for kings, and for all that are in authority; that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and honesty. For this is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Saviour, who will have all men to be saved and to come unto the knowledge of the truth." (I Timothy 2:1-4)
In God our Saviour indeed -- our salvation! Trust in Jesus today. Stand in the offering plate.
Paul, an apostle of Jesus Christ by the commandment of God our Saviour and Lord Jesus Christ which is our hope delivers an epistle to Timothy. The reason given in the first few verses of I Timothy is "that they teach no other doctrine --- neither give heed to fables and endless genealogies, which minister questions."
Instead, Paul instructed Timothy (and us by extension) to godly edifying which is in faith. "And the grace of our Lord was exceeding abundant with faith and love which is in Christ Jesus -- this is a faithful saying, and worthy of all acceptation, that Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners. (I Timothy 1:14-15)
Paul delivers essentially the same message in Titus except that therein he adds: "according to the faith of of God's elect, and the acknowledging of the truth which is after godliness; in hope of eternal life, which God, that cannot lie, promised before the world began; but hath in due times manifested His Word through preaching, which is committed unto me according to the commandment of God our Saviour ... to Titus, mine own son after the common faith: Grace, mercy, and peace from God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ our Saviour." (Titus 1:1-4)
No contradictions but in perfection, these messages written so that we can know His Word -- the mind of our Lord God and Saviour, Jesus the Christ.
"Moreover, brethren, I declare unto you the gospel which I preached unto you which also ye have received and wherein ye stand ... by which also ye are saved, if you keep in memory what I preached unto you, unless ye have believed in vain. For I delivered unto you first of all that which I also received -- how that Christ died for our sins according to the scriptures -- and that He was buried and that He rose again on the third day according to the scriptures." (I Corinthians 15:1-4)
"And I thank Christ Jesus our Lord, who hath enabled me for that He counted me faithful, putting me into the ministry; who was before a blasphemer and a persecutor and injurious: but I obtained mercy, because I did it ignorantly in unbelief. And the grace of our Lord was exceeding abundant with faith and love which is in Christ Jesus.
This is a faithful saying, and worthy of all acceptation, that Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners; of whom I am chief. Howbeit for this cause I obtained mercy, that in me first Jesus Christ might show forth all longsuffering, for a pattern to them which should hereafter believe on him to life everlasting.
Now unto the King eternal, immortal, invisible, the only wise God, be honour and glory for ever and ever. Amen." (I Timothy 1:12-17)
"This charge I commit unto thee, son Timothy, according to the prophecies which went before on thee, that thou by them mightest war a good warfare; holding faith, and a good conscience; which some having put away concerning faith have made shipwreck: of whom is Hymenaeus and Alexander; whom I have delivered unto Satan, that they may learn not to blaspheme." (I Timothy 1:18-20)
But Paul does not stop there. He writes: "I exhort therefore, that, first of all, supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks, be made for all men for kings, and for all that are in authority; that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and honesty. For this is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Saviour, who will have all men to be saved and to come unto the knowledge of the truth." (I Timothy 2:1-4)
In God our Saviour indeed -- our salvation! Trust in Jesus today. Stand in the offering plate.
Tuesday, April 15, 2014
Which Some Professing Have Erred Concerning the Faith- Part 883
"Howbeit for this cause I obtained mercy, that in me first Jesus Christ might show forth all longsuffering, for a pattern to the which should hereafter believe on Him to life everlasting ... now unto the King eternal, immortal, invisible, the only wise God, be honour and glory for ever and ever. Amen." (I Timothy 1:16-17)
Throughout the old testament, God repeatedly stated that the Lord thy God is one God and beside Him there is no Saviour. Even the first commandment (in both the old and new covenants) states: "Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind." (Matthew 22:36-40; Exodus 20:2)
"Yet I have been the LORD your God since the land of Egypt and you were not to know any God except Me -- for there is no Saviour besides Me." (Hosea 13:4; Isaiah 43:3)
Jude confirms the same message in the new testament. "Now unto Him that is able to keep you from falling, and to present you faultless before the presence of His glory with exceeding joy -- to the only wise God our Saviour, be glory and majesty, dominion and power, both now and forever." (Jude 1:24-25)
Therefore, who is the only wise God our Saviour? Who is the image of the invisible God -- the firstborn of every creature? (Colossians 1:15)
Who is the "Him" that is referred to in Colossians 1:16-17 that states: "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"?
Who is the "brightness of His glory, and the express image of His person [that] uphold[s] all things by the Word of His power?" (Hebrews 1:3)
Who is the Word that was in the beginning with God and who was God who later became flesh? (John 1:1-18) The true Light that was in the world and the world was made by Him and yet the world knew Him not. (John 1:10-11)
"But we see Jesus -- who was made a little lower 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 ... for it became Him for whom are all things, and by whom are all things, in bringing many sons unto glory to make the captain of their salvation perfect through sufferings." (Hebrews 2:9-10)
Timothy elaborates: "... until the appearing of our Lord Jesus Christ which in His times He shall show -- who is the blessed and only Potentate, the King of kings and Lord of lords -- who only hath immortality, dwelling in the light which no man can approach unto -- whom no man hath seen, nor can see -- to whom be honour and power everlasting." (I Timothy 6:14-16)
Thus, the answer to the question? "He is the head of the body, the church, who is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead; that in all things He might have the preeminence -- 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 in heaven and you, that were sometime 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 1:18-22)
"Even the mystery which has been hid from ages and from generations but now is made manifest to His saints -- 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)
Therefore, don't waver in the Word when someone tries to tell you that there is a scriptural basis for the trinity. There isn't one. Instead, fight the good fight of faith, lay hold on eternal life, whereunto thou art also called, and profess a good profession before many witnesses. Stand in the offering plate.
Throughout the old testament, God repeatedly stated that the Lord thy God is one God and beside Him there is no Saviour. Even the first commandment (in both the old and new covenants) states: "Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind." (Matthew 22:36-40; Exodus 20:2)
"Yet I have been the LORD your God since the land of Egypt and you were not to know any God except Me -- for there is no Saviour besides Me." (Hosea 13:4; Isaiah 43:3)
Jude confirms the same message in the new testament. "Now unto Him that is able to keep you from falling, and to present you faultless before the presence of His glory with exceeding joy -- to the only wise God our Saviour, be glory and majesty, dominion and power, both now and forever." (Jude 1:24-25)
Therefore, who is the only wise God our Saviour? Who is the image of the invisible God -- the firstborn of every creature? (Colossians 1:15)
Who is the "Him" that is referred to in Colossians 1:16-17 that states: "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"?
Who is the "brightness of His glory, and the express image of His person [that] uphold[s] all things by the Word of His power?" (Hebrews 1:3)
Who is the Word that was in the beginning with God and who was God who later became flesh? (John 1:1-18) The true Light that was in the world and the world was made by Him and yet the world knew Him not. (John 1:10-11)
"But we see Jesus -- who was made a little lower 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 ... for it became Him for whom are all things, and by whom are all things, in bringing many sons unto glory to make the captain of their salvation perfect through sufferings." (Hebrews 2:9-10)
Timothy elaborates: "... until the appearing of our Lord Jesus Christ which in His times He shall show -- who is the blessed and only Potentate, the King of kings and Lord of lords -- who only hath immortality, dwelling in the light which no man can approach unto -- whom no man hath seen, nor can see -- to whom be honour and power everlasting." (I Timothy 6:14-16)
Thus, the answer to the question? "He is the head of the body, the church, who is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead; that in all things He might have the preeminence -- 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 in heaven and you, that were sometime 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 1:18-22)
"Even the mystery which has been hid from ages and from generations but now is made manifest to His saints -- 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)
Therefore, don't waver in the Word when someone tries to tell you that there is a scriptural basis for the trinity. There isn't one. Instead, fight the good fight of faith, lay hold on eternal life, whereunto thou art also called, and profess a good profession before many witnesses. Stand in the offering plate.
Monday, April 14, 2014
He Was Reckoned Among the Transgressors - Part 882
Again, God is not the author of confusion. He wants believers to first seek Jesus and His righteousness so that we have the wisdom and knowledge to discern what is right and honest and truthful, according to His Word.
For example, Jesus said, "For this is My blood of the new testament which is shed for many for the remission of sins." (Matthew 26:28) Not just once but He repeated this same statement again in Mark. "This is my blood of the new testament which is shed for many." (Mark 14:24) And again in Luke. "This cup is the new testament in My blood which is shed for you." (Luke 22:20)
Why? Because the salvation message is not just about believing on Jesus. We are to understand that in shedding His precious blood on the cross Jesus was fulfilling the law and commandments that existed under the old covenant. Remember, under the old covenant, Moses lifted up a bronze serpent in the wilderness which had been secured to a pole, so that whoever gazed upon it would be healed. Well, today in this dispensation of grace, a more effectual sacrifice has been offered -- once and for all -- so that we could become the sons and daughters of the Most High King.
That is, God Himself became flesh so that "by His stripes we are/were healed." (John 1:1-18; Isaiah 53:5; I Peter 2:24)
But Jesus did not stop with healing in the physical sense. Jesus came to fulfill the former covenant, ripping the veil in two -- from top to bottom so that we could walk in the cool of the day with our Most High God. This is why we proclaim JESUS from the mountaintops -- Jesus -- the same yesterday, today and forever -- so that whosoever should look upon Him could also be delivered from all bondage and captivity of sin. (Hebrews 13:8)
"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." (Romans 8:15)
We have been set free by His grace and mercy. His love.
But we need also to study His Word -- as a workman does, to show ourselves approved. In this context, we are encouraged as newborn babes to desire the sincere milk of His Word -- in order that we might grow in knowledge and wisdom.
Why is this important? Because once we have tasted the goodness and mercy of our Lord Jesus, we can no longer be tossed to and fro with false doctrines from false apostles and deceitful workers -- who have transformed themselves into the apostles of Christ. (I Corinthians 11:13-15; I Peter 2:2-3)
Instead, we will understand that when we believe on Him, we shall not be confounded. (I Peter 2:4-6) We will not be confounded by false teachings and the religious culture of this day-- when we seek Jesus first with all our heart, soul, mind and strength, and His righteousness.
Therefore, believe He is precious. Know that "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 2:6-10)
Proclaim the Apostle and High Priest of our profession Jesus, who tasted death for every man -- the Just for the unjust -- who was to fulfill that which had already been predetermined before the very foundation of the earth. That is He, the Lamb of God, would be delivered into the midst of wicked men and be slain, thereby achieving opportunity for the lost to have redemption.
He Himself taking away the sin of all those who call upon His Name - "JESUS" This is why we thankfully cry out, "Abba, Father."
"For even hereunto were ye called: because Christ also suffered for us, leaving us an example, that ye should follow His steps, who did no sin, neither was guile found in His mouth. Who, when He was reviled, reviled not again; when He suffered, He threatened not; but committed Himself to Him that judges righteously:
Who His own self bare our sins in His own body on the tree, that we, being dead to sins, should live unto righteousness: by whose stripes ye were healed. For ye were as sheep going astray; but are now returned unto the Shepherd and Bishop of your souls." (I Peter 2:21-25)
Be thankful for His goodness and mercy. Seek His Word every day. Stand in the offering plate.
For example, Jesus said, "For this is My blood of the new testament which is shed for many for the remission of sins." (Matthew 26:28) Not just once but He repeated this same statement again in Mark. "This is my blood of the new testament which is shed for many." (Mark 14:24) And again in Luke. "This cup is the new testament in My blood which is shed for you." (Luke 22:20)
Why? Because the salvation message is not just about believing on Jesus. We are to understand that in shedding His precious blood on the cross Jesus was fulfilling the law and commandments that existed under the old covenant. Remember, under the old covenant, Moses lifted up a bronze serpent in the wilderness which had been secured to a pole, so that whoever gazed upon it would be healed. Well, today in this dispensation of grace, a more effectual sacrifice has been offered -- once and for all -- so that we could become the sons and daughters of the Most High King.
That is, God Himself became flesh so that "by His stripes we are/were healed." (John 1:1-18; Isaiah 53:5; I Peter 2:24)
But Jesus did not stop with healing in the physical sense. Jesus came to fulfill the former covenant, ripping the veil in two -- from top to bottom so that we could walk in the cool of the day with our Most High God. This is why we proclaim JESUS from the mountaintops -- Jesus -- the same yesterday, today and forever -- so that whosoever should look upon Him could also be delivered from all bondage and captivity of sin. (Hebrews 13:8)
"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." (Romans 8:15)
We have been set free by His grace and mercy. His love.
But we need also to study His Word -- as a workman does, to show ourselves approved. In this context, we are encouraged as newborn babes to desire the sincere milk of His Word -- in order that we might grow in knowledge and wisdom.
Why is this important? Because once we have tasted the goodness and mercy of our Lord Jesus, we can no longer be tossed to and fro with false doctrines from false apostles and deceitful workers -- who have transformed themselves into the apostles of Christ. (I Corinthians 11:13-15; I Peter 2:2-3)
Instead, we will understand that when we believe on Him, we shall not be confounded. (I Peter 2:4-6) We will not be confounded by false teachings and the religious culture of this day-- when we seek Jesus first with all our heart, soul, mind and strength, and His righteousness.
Therefore, believe He is precious. Know that "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 2:6-10)
Proclaim the Apostle and High Priest of our profession Jesus, who tasted death for every man -- the Just for the unjust -- who was to fulfill that which had already been predetermined before the very foundation of the earth. That is He, the Lamb of God, would be delivered into the midst of wicked men and be slain, thereby achieving opportunity for the lost to have redemption.
He Himself taking away the sin of all those who call upon His Name - "JESUS" This is why we thankfully cry out, "Abba, Father."
"For even hereunto were ye called: because Christ also suffered for us, leaving us an example, that ye should follow His steps, who did no sin, neither was guile found in His mouth. Who, when He was reviled, reviled not again; when He suffered, He threatened not; but committed Himself to Him that judges righteously:
Who His own self bare our sins in His own body on the tree, that we, being dead to sins, should live unto righteousness: by whose stripes ye were healed. For ye were as sheep going astray; but are now returned unto the Shepherd and Bishop of your souls." (I Peter 2:21-25)
Be thankful for His goodness and mercy. Seek His Word every day. Stand in the offering plate.
Come and See the Mystery that has Been Hid From Generations - Part 881
"God is not the author of confusion, but of peace as in all churches of the saints." (I Corinthians 14:33) I began this theme a couple of weeks ago but got sidetracked. Today, I believe would be a good time to start connecting the scriptures so that we can all gain an accurate understanding of the good news gospel of the Kingdom --- His truth. The grace and truth that came by Jesus Christ. (John 1:17)
But how do we learn of the truth when the "religious culture" of this day teaches a different gospel? First and foremost, we must look to the Word -- the Bible -- to see what He Himself said. That is, He who knew no sin and yet became sin so that you and I could be saved. That is our starting point.
Why? Because without the Word, there is no foundation for what you believe. This is why we are instructed as believers to seek Jesus and His righteousness with all our heart, soul, mind and strength. To study the scriptures, as a workman, to show thyself approved. (II Timothy 2:15)
Jesus said, "But whosoever drinketh of the water that I shall give him shall never thirst, but the water that I shall give him shall be in him a well of water springing up into everlasting life." (John 4:14) Just like the woman at the well, we should be bubbling over with joy, because we have laid His Word in our hearts.
"What seek ye?" asked Jesus of the two disciples who followed Him after hearing Him speak. They had asked, "Rabbi (which is to say, being interpreted, Master) where dwellest Thou?" Jesus said, "Come and see." (John 1:38-39) Indeed, this is what we need to do this day. Come and see that the Lord is good -- so loving of His beloved creation that He Himself would devise a plan that included shedding His precious blood on the cross.
"Even the mystery which hath been hid from ages and from generations but now is made manifest to His saints ... 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." (Colossians 1:26-29)
"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." (Ephesians 3:9-11)
John wrote: "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." (John 1:1-3)
John did not stop there. "He was in the world and the world was made by Him and the world knew Him not. He came unto His own and His own received Him not. But as many as received Him, to them gave He power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on His name -- which were born not of blood, nor of the will of the flesh, nor of the will of man, but of God ... 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." (John 1:10-14)
In Colossians, Paul as an apostle of Jesus Christ confirmed John's writing when he wrote: "Who hath delivered us from the darkness and hath translated us into the kingdom of His dear Son -- in whom we have redemption through His blood, even the forgiveness of sins; who is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn of every creature -- 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 ... and He is the head of the body, the church; who is he beginning, the firstborn from the dead, that in all things He might have the preeminence .. 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." (Colossians 1:13-20)
This same message is further confirmed in Colossians 2:9: "For in Him dwelleth all the fulness of the Godhead bodily, and ye are complete in Him which is the head of all principality and power."
Indeed, Jesus Himself said, "I and My Father are one." (John 10:33) Not God in three persons, or a triune God or the trinity which the religious culture teaches but Jesus was God in the flesh. The same God who created us willingly became flesh so that we might experience His goodness and grace.
As John wrote, Jesus had been teaching as always but "there was a division therefore again among the Jews for these sayings" -- the teachings that Jesus was presenting. (John 10:19) So much so, that the Jews surrounded Jesus and said, "How long dost Thou make us to doubt? If Thou be the Christ, tell us plainly." (John 10:23-24)
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 My sheep. 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." (John 10:25-30)
This is not the only time Jesus indicated that He and the Father are one.
"Jesus saith unto [Thomas], "I am the way, the truth and the life. No man comes unto the Father but by Me. If ye had known Me, ye should have known My Father also, and from henceforth, ye know Him and have seen Him." (John 14:6-7)
Philip then said, "Lord, show us the Father and it sufficeth us." Jesus said unto him, "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 doeth the works. Believe Me that I am in the Father and the Father in Me, or else believe Me for the very works sake." (John 14:8-18)
"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)
"No man hath seen God at any time, the only begotten Son which is in the bosom of the Father, He hath declared Him." (John 1:18)
"God, who at sundry times and in divers manners spake in times past unto the fathers by the prophets ... hath in these last days spoken unto us by His Son, whom He hath appointed heir of all things, by whom also He made the worlds -- who being the brightness of His glory, and the express image of His person, and upholding all things by the Word of His power when He had by Himself purged our sins sat down on the right hand of the Majesty on high ... until I make thine enemies Thy footstool." (Hebrews 1:1-14)
“Because that which may be known of God is manifest in them; for God hath shewed it unto them. For the invisible things of Him from the creation of the world are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made, even His eternal power and GODHEAD; so that they are without excuse.” (Romans 1:19-20)
This is why Matthew confirmed what the prophet had earlier wrote: "Behold a virgin shall be with child, and they shall call His name Emmanuel, which being interpreted is, God with us." (Matthew 1:26)
And similarly why Isaiah wrote: "For unto us a child is born. Unto us a son is given and the government shall be upon His shoulder, and His name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, the Mighty God, the everlasting Father, the Prince of peace." (Isaiah 9:6)
But even more important, it was prophesied-- "I am the Lord, the first and with the last, I am He." (Isaiah 41:4) Jesus said the same in Revelation. "I am Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the ending," saith the Lord, "which is and which was and which is to come, the Almighty." (Revelation 1:8)
And in the case where the message is still not clear, Jesus repeats it again, saying, "I am Alpha and Omega, the first and the last." (Revelation 1:11)
And again, Jesus states: "Fear not, for I am the first and the last; I am He that lives and was dead, and behold I am alive evermore, Amen." (Revelation 1:18)
Even again, "Holy, holy, holy, Lord God Almighty, which was, and is, and is to come." (Revelation 4:8) And still one more time for those who still don't understand that God did not send another but came to redeem us Himself, "I am Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the end, the first and the last." (Revelation 22:13)
Yes, in the beginning God. (Genesis 1:1) And besides Him there is no other. It is He Himself who has become your Saviour. Trust Jesus today. Seek His Word so that you will know also "what manner of love the Father hath bestowed upon us ... that we should be called the sons of God; therefore, the world knoweth us not, because it knew Him not." (I John 3:1)
"Little children, let no man deceive you." (I John 3:7) "Believe not every spirit, but try the spirits -- whether they are of God, because many false prophets are gone out into the world." (I John 4:1)
Why? Because by believing in Jesus, "you know that He was manifested to take away our sins." (I John 3:5) Who? The one and only -- God -- our heavenly Father -- was manifest in the flesh. (I Timothy 3:16) Stand in the offering plate.
But how do we learn of the truth when the "religious culture" of this day teaches a different gospel? First and foremost, we must look to the Word -- the Bible -- to see what He Himself said. That is, He who knew no sin and yet became sin so that you and I could be saved. That is our starting point.
Why? Because without the Word, there is no foundation for what you believe. This is why we are instructed as believers to seek Jesus and His righteousness with all our heart, soul, mind and strength. To study the scriptures, as a workman, to show thyself approved. (II Timothy 2:15)
Jesus said, "But whosoever drinketh of the water that I shall give him shall never thirst, but the water that I shall give him shall be in him a well of water springing up into everlasting life." (John 4:14) Just like the woman at the well, we should be bubbling over with joy, because we have laid His Word in our hearts.
"What seek ye?" asked Jesus of the two disciples who followed Him after hearing Him speak. They had asked, "Rabbi (which is to say, being interpreted, Master) where dwellest Thou?" Jesus said, "Come and see." (John 1:38-39) Indeed, this is what we need to do this day. Come and see that the Lord is good -- so loving of His beloved creation that He Himself would devise a plan that included shedding His precious blood on the cross.
"Even the mystery which hath been hid from ages and from generations but now is made manifest to His saints ... 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." (Colossians 1:26-29)
"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." (Ephesians 3:9-11)
John wrote: "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." (John 1:1-3)
John did not stop there. "He was in the world and the world was made by Him and the world knew Him not. He came unto His own and His own received Him not. But as many as received Him, to them gave He power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on His name -- which were born not of blood, nor of the will of the flesh, nor of the will of man, but of God ... 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." (John 1:10-14)
In Colossians, Paul as an apostle of Jesus Christ confirmed John's writing when he wrote: "Who hath delivered us from the darkness and hath translated us into the kingdom of His dear Son -- in whom we have redemption through His blood, even the forgiveness of sins; who is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn of every creature -- 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 ... and He is the head of the body, the church; who is he beginning, the firstborn from the dead, that in all things He might have the preeminence .. 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." (Colossians 1:13-20)
This same message is further confirmed in Colossians 2:9: "For in Him dwelleth all the fulness of the Godhead bodily, and ye are complete in Him which is the head of all principality and power."
Indeed, Jesus Himself said, "I and My Father are one." (John 10:33) Not God in three persons, or a triune God or the trinity which the religious culture teaches but Jesus was God in the flesh. The same God who created us willingly became flesh so that we might experience His goodness and grace.
As John wrote, Jesus had been teaching as always but "there was a division therefore again among the Jews for these sayings" -- the teachings that Jesus was presenting. (John 10:19) So much so, that the Jews surrounded Jesus and said, "How long dost Thou make us to doubt? If Thou be the Christ, tell us plainly." (John 10:23-24)
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 My sheep. 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." (John 10:25-30)
This is not the only time Jesus indicated that He and the Father are one.
"Jesus saith unto [Thomas], "I am the way, the truth and the life. No man comes unto the Father but by Me. If ye had known Me, ye should have known My Father also, and from henceforth, ye know Him and have seen Him." (John 14:6-7)
Philip then said, "Lord, show us the Father and it sufficeth us." Jesus said unto him, "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 doeth the works. Believe Me that I am in the Father and the Father in Me, or else believe Me for the very works sake." (John 14:8-18)
"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)
"No man hath seen God at any time, the only begotten Son which is in the bosom of the Father, He hath declared Him." (John 1:18)
"God, who at sundry times and in divers manners spake in times past unto the fathers by the prophets ... hath in these last days spoken unto us by His Son, whom He hath appointed heir of all things, by whom also He made the worlds -- who being the brightness of His glory, and the express image of His person, and upholding all things by the Word of His power when He had by Himself purged our sins sat down on the right hand of the Majesty on high ... until I make thine enemies Thy footstool." (Hebrews 1:1-14)
“Because that which may be known of God is manifest in them; for God hath shewed it unto them. For the invisible things of Him from the creation of the world are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made, even His eternal power and GODHEAD; so that they are without excuse.” (Romans 1:19-20)
This is why Matthew confirmed what the prophet had earlier wrote: "Behold a virgin shall be with child, and they shall call His name Emmanuel, which being interpreted is, God with us." (Matthew 1:26)
And similarly why Isaiah wrote: "For unto us a child is born. Unto us a son is given and the government shall be upon His shoulder, and His name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, the Mighty God, the everlasting Father, the Prince of peace." (Isaiah 9:6)
But even more important, it was prophesied-- "I am the Lord, the first and with the last, I am He." (Isaiah 41:4) Jesus said the same in Revelation. "I am Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the ending," saith the Lord, "which is and which was and which is to come, the Almighty." (Revelation 1:8)
And in the case where the message is still not clear, Jesus repeats it again, saying, "I am Alpha and Omega, the first and the last." (Revelation 1:11)
And again, Jesus states: "Fear not, for I am the first and the last; I am He that lives and was dead, and behold I am alive evermore, Amen." (Revelation 1:18)
Even again, "Holy, holy, holy, Lord God Almighty, which was, and is, and is to come." (Revelation 4:8) And still one more time for those who still don't understand that God did not send another but came to redeem us Himself, "I am Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the end, the first and the last." (Revelation 22:13)
Yes, in the beginning God. (Genesis 1:1) And besides Him there is no other. It is He Himself who has become your Saviour. Trust Jesus today. Seek His Word so that you will know also "what manner of love the Father hath bestowed upon us ... that we should be called the sons of God; therefore, the world knoweth us not, because it knew Him not." (I John 3:1)
"Little children, let no man deceive you." (I John 3:7) "Believe not every spirit, but try the spirits -- whether they are of God, because many false prophets are gone out into the world." (I John 4:1)
Why? Because by believing in Jesus, "you know that He was manifested to take away our sins." (I John 3:5) Who? The one and only -- God -- our heavenly Father -- was manifest in the flesh. (I Timothy 3:16) Stand in the offering plate.
Saturday, April 12, 2014
Seated in Heavenly Places With Jesus Our Lord - Part 880
When we ask Jesus to become Lord in our lives, and then seek His righteousness, we become the sons and daughters of the Most High. In fact, each and every one of us as members of the body of Christ become inheritors of all things. As such, we should be desirous, seeking our rightful inheritance -- for it is our Father's good pleasure to give us the Kingdom.
Thus, Thy kingdom come, Thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven.
Indeed, our Lord God and Saviour has already proven that He will not withhold any good thing from those who love Him. Period. He does not cause bad things. He does not cause calamity in your life, as some of the well-known in the religious culture proclaim.
How do I know this? Because our Lord and Saviour is an awesome God who wants only the best for His children. Indeed, the scriptures even call us His friends.
Moreover, this same Lord freely gave us the gift of salvation while we were still dead in our own trespasses and sin. He willingly paid the redemptive price in full with His precious blood. And the best part? There is no follow-up debt to repay. No interest payments added to the contract.
In fact, the only outstanding debt is that we come to the realization that there is no love greater than the love of God toward us. Through faith in JESUS (who is the builder of the Kingdom of God) we are now citizens of that Kingdom. We are no longer strangers or foreigners but fellow citizens with all of God’s redeemed family. As such, we are fully aware of God’s indwelling presence.
Therefore, listen to the voice within and you will find, as have other members of the body of Christ that things appear to be different. In reality, they are not different. What has happened is that you have changed. We have been renewed in our hearts and minds to a more worthwhile purpose in our lives. We even see more clearly because the scales of unbelieving deceptiveness have fallen from our eyes.
In other words, we have been born again - born of God because He first loved us. So on this blessed day, remember that we reign because of Him. Sit in heavenly places for you indeed are His offspring. Stand in the offering plate.
Thus, Thy kingdom come, Thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven.
Indeed, our Lord God and Saviour has already proven that He will not withhold any good thing from those who love Him. Period. He does not cause bad things. He does not cause calamity in your life, as some of the well-known in the religious culture proclaim.
How do I know this? Because our Lord and Saviour is an awesome God who wants only the best for His children. Indeed, the scriptures even call us His friends.
Moreover, this same Lord freely gave us the gift of salvation while we were still dead in our own trespasses and sin. He willingly paid the redemptive price in full with His precious blood. And the best part? There is no follow-up debt to repay. No interest payments added to the contract.
In fact, the only outstanding debt is that we come to the realization that there is no love greater than the love of God toward us. Through faith in JESUS (who is the builder of the Kingdom of God) we are now citizens of that Kingdom. We are no longer strangers or foreigners but fellow citizens with all of God’s redeemed family. As such, we are fully aware of God’s indwelling presence.
Therefore, listen to the voice within and you will find, as have other members of the body of Christ that things appear to be different. In reality, they are not different. What has happened is that you have changed. We have been renewed in our hearts and minds to a more worthwhile purpose in our lives. We even see more clearly because the scales of unbelieving deceptiveness have fallen from our eyes.
In other words, we have been born again - born of God because He first loved us. So on this blessed day, remember that we reign because of Him. Sit in heavenly places for you indeed are His offspring. Stand in the offering plate.
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