"Surely the Lord GOD will do nothing, but He reveals His secret unto His servants the prophets." (Amos 3:7)
Under the old covenant, God revealed His secret(s) unto His servants the prophets. This includes revealing His purposes and determinate counsel which would never have been known (or expected) if the Lord God had not revealed what He willed to do through the prophets. In this former dispensation (known as the old testament), His servants (or more specifically, prophets) were considered holy men of God -- those who feared the Lord -- who even in the worst of occasions, would proclaim God's will to the people. As such, there was never a time when the people were not warned of the things which were to come.
For example, God revealed to Noah his need to build an ark so that when the world would be flooded because of sin, both he and his family would be saved. Similarly, God revealed to Abraham the destruction of cities Sodom and Gomorrah because of their transgressions against God.
"And the Lord said, "Shall I hide from Abraham that thing which I do?" -- seeing that Abraham shall surely become a great and mighty nation, and all the nations of the earth shall be blessed in him." (Genesis 18:17-33)
God also shared with Jeremiah the seventy years of captivity that the Jews would endure in Babylon and then to Isaiah their deliverance. In other words, everything that God would do (under the old covenant) was proclaimed through His servants/prophets so that the people in this dispensation could repent of their ways and turn to the Lord.
"And the Lord hearkened, and heard it, and a book of remembrance was written before Him for them that feared the Lord, and that thought upon His name -- and they shall be mine," saith the Lord of hosts, "in that day when I make up my jewels and I will spare them, as a man spareth his own son that serves him." (Malachi 3:16-17)
It is here that we come to the Lord's servant John the Baptist preaching to the people in the wilderness of Judaea, saying, "Repent ye; for the kingdom of heaven is at hand." (Matthew 3:1-2)
"For this is He that was spoken of by the prophet Esaias (Isaiah), saying; "THE VOICE OF ONE CRYING IN THE WILDERNESS -- PREPARE YE THE WAY OF THE LORD. MAKE HIS PATHS STRAIGHT." (Matthew 3:3; Isaiah 40:3; Luke 1:76)
As we continue reading, we see that John delivers an even stronger message to the Pharisees and Sadducees as they came to watch those being baptized in the Jordan, confessing their sins. John said,
"O generation of vipers, who hath warned you to flee from the wrath to come? Bring forth therefore fruits meet for repentance; and think not to say within yourselves .... "We have Abraham our father" for I say unto you, "that God is able of these stones to raise up children unto Abraham."
"And now also the axe is laid unto the root of the trees; therefore every tree which brings not forth good fruit is hewn down and cast into the fire. I indeed baptize you with water unto repentance, but He that comes after me is mightier than I -- whose shoes I am not worthy to bear. He shall baptize you with the Holy Ghost and with fire -- whose [winnowing] fan is in His hand, and He will thoroughly purge his floor and gather His wheat into the garner but He will burn up the chaff with unquenchable fire." (Matthew 3:4-12; Mark 1:18; Acts 1:4-5; Joel 2:28)
Herein, John is referring to the mystery that was decided before the world was shaped and who was about to be manifest for all the world to behold. That is, the Lamb of God.
"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)
In the old covenant, "God, who at sundry times and in divers manners spake in times past unto the fathers by prophets, and has 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 "Thou hast put all things in subjection under His feet." (Hebrews 1:1-14; Hebrews 2:8)
This is why Jesus said, "For there is nothing hid, which shall not be manifested; neither was anything kept secret, but that it should come abroad." (Mark 4:22) "Even the mystery which has been hid from ages and from generations, but now is made manifest to His saints." (Colossians 1:26)
The mystery of godliness that was decided from the very beginning of the world -- and had been revealed to His loyal servants and prophets in the old covenant so that these could prophesy of that which was still to come, had finally come to fruition, bringing forth His glory to all nations.
"Of which salvation the prophets have enquired, and searched diligently, who prophesied of the grace that should come unto you; searching what, or what manner of time the Spirit of Christ which was in them did signify, when it testified beforehand of the sufferings of Christ, and the glory that should follow ... unto whom it was revealed, that not unto themselves, but unto us did minister the things, which are now reported unto you by them that have preached the gospel unto you with the Holy Ghost sent down from heaven, which things the angels desire to look into." (I Peter 1:10-12)
In these last days, God reveals Himself to the world as a Son.
"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 -- and the Word was made flesh and dwelt among us (and we beheld His glory, the glory as the only begotten of the Father,) full of grace and truth." (John 1:1-14)
John confirmed Jesus to be the Saviour when he wrote: "For the law was given by Moses, but grace and truth came by Jesus Christ. No man hath seen God at any time; the only begotten Son which is in the bosom of the Father, He hath declared Him ... behold the Lamb of God which taketh away the sin of the world. " (John 1:15-36)
"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 ... and He is before all things, and by Him all things consist." (Colossians 1:12-26)
"God with us." (Matthew 1:23) "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)
Thus, the greatest love story ever told began -- a new testament -- whereby we could become heirs and joint heirs with Him when we believe in our Lord God and Saviour with all our heart, soul, mind and strength.
"For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, they are the sons of God, for ye have not received the spirit of bondage again to fear; but ye have received the Spirit of adoption whereby we cry "Abba, Father." The Spirit itself beareth witness with our spirit -- that we are the children of God, and if children, then heirs; heirs of God and joint-heirs with Christ, if so be that we suffer with Him, that we may be also glorified together." (Romans 8:1-39)
This is why when Jesus died, the veil was ripped from top to bottom. Our Lord God and Father willingly became our Saviour so that we as His friends and not servants could experience His love, His grace and His mercy. "The secret of the Lord is with them that fear Him, and He will show them His covenant." (Psalm 25:14)
"Henceforth, I call you not servants; for the servant knows not what his lord does, but I have called you friends -- for all things that I have heard of My Father, I have made known unto you." (John 15:15)
Therefore, in this current dispensation of grace, God reveals Himself (and the mysteries of the good news gospel) through His Word -- Jesus the Christ.
Jesus said, "But the Comforter, which is the Holy Ghost, whom the Father will send in My name, He shall teach you all things, and bring all things to your remembrance, whatsoever I have said unto you." (John 14:26; Luke 24:48-49; I Corinthians 2:13)
Jesus is the only mediator between God and man. (I Timothy 2:5) Therefore, we no longer have to rely on another to teach us, because as believers who seek His righteousness, Jesus lives within. And when we are baptized in His name (Acts 2:38-42), we receive His power and authority.
"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 the third day according to the scriptures, and that He was seen of Cephas, and of the twelve; after that, He was seen of above five hundred brethren at once; of whom the greater part remain unto this present, but some are fallen asleep. After that, He was seen of James; then of all the apostles, and last of all, He was seen of me also, as of one born out of due time." (I Corinthians 15:1-9)
After this, no man saw Jesus again in this world. This is why there are no longer prophets or priests, or any other intermediary who can stand between us and our Lord God and Saviour Jesus Christ ... because He Himself (who knew no sin) became the propitiation for our sins on the cross.
This also explains why "we also have a more sure word of prophecy; whereunto ye do well that ye take heed, as unto a light that shines in a dark place, until the day dawn and the day star arise in your hearts; knowing this first, that no prophecy of the scripture is of any private interpretation. For the prophecy came not in old time by the will of man -- but holy men of God spake as they were moved by the Holy Ghost." (II Peter 1:19-21)
It is the same today, except that God reveals Himself to us (both individually and as a collective) through His Spirit that leads and guides us into all truth. This is why we study the Word to show ourselves approved. "That which was from the beginning, which we have heard, which we have seen with our eyes, which we have looked upon, and our hands have handled of the Word of life -- (for the life was manifested, and we have seen it, and bear witness and show unto you that eternal life, which was with the Father and was manifested unto us;) that which we have seen and heard declare we unto you ..." (I John 1:1-3)
As you ponder these spiritual matters further, read the Word so that you will grow in grace, and in the knowledge of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. To Him be the glory and praise both now and forever. Let him that hath ears to hear, hear. 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
Thursday, April 24, 2014
Wednesday, April 23, 2014
Earnestly Contend for the Faith - Part 891
But thus saith the Lord, "Even the captives of the mighty shall be taken away, and the prey of the terrible shall be delivered: for I will contend with him that contendeth with thee, and I will save thy children." (Isaiah 49:25)
In the new testament, Jesus has given us similar promises to stake our faith upon. For example, Jesus said, "I will never leave thee nor forsake thee." Not ever and He does so in order that we may boldly say, "The Lord is my helper, and I will not fear what man shall do unto me." (Hebrews 13:5-6)
How can we know this? Because our Lord God and Saviour -- Jesus -- has "not given us the spirit of fear, but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind." (II Timothy 1:7)
And if we are still unsure of our salvation, or status in this life, then trust Jesus when He tells us to cast all our cares upon Him. "Cast all your care upon Him and He careth for you." (I Peter 5:7) Why? Because "of His own will -- begat He us with the Word of truth -- that we should be a kind of firstfruits of His creatures." (James 1:18)
Moreover, Jesus promises that when we believe in Him and love Him with all our heart, soul, mind and strength, we not only become but ARE "a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, an holy nation, a peculiar people; [so] that [we] should shew forth the praises of Him who hath called [us] out of darkness into His marvellous light ..." (I Peter 2:9)
Indeed, the LORD [is] our Shepherd and as such, we shall never want. (Psalm 23:1) Stand in the offering plate.
In the new testament, Jesus has given us similar promises to stake our faith upon. For example, Jesus said, "I will never leave thee nor forsake thee." Not ever and He does so in order that we may boldly say, "The Lord is my helper, and I will not fear what man shall do unto me." (Hebrews 13:5-6)
How can we know this? Because our Lord God and Saviour -- Jesus -- has "not given us the spirit of fear, but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind." (II Timothy 1:7)
And if we are still unsure of our salvation, or status in this life, then trust Jesus when He tells us to cast all our cares upon Him. "Cast all your care upon Him and He careth for you." (I Peter 5:7) Why? Because "of His own will -- begat He us with the Word of truth -- that we should be a kind of firstfruits of His creatures." (James 1:18)
Moreover, Jesus promises that when we believe in Him and love Him with all our heart, soul, mind and strength, we not only become but ARE "a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, an holy nation, a peculiar people; [so] that [we] should shew forth the praises of Him who hath called [us] out of darkness into His marvellous light ..." (I Peter 2:9)
Indeed, the LORD [is] our Shepherd and as such, we shall never want. (Psalm 23:1) Stand in the offering plate.
Tuesday, April 22, 2014
Jesus Loved Us To the End - Part 890
"I will declare Thy name unto my brethren [and] in the midst of the church will I sing praise unto Thee." And again, "I will put my trust in Him." And yet again, "Behold, I and the children which God hath given me ..." (Hebrews 2:12-13; Isaiah 8:18)
Mary stood at the sepulchre weeping, and as she wept, she stooped down and looked into the sepulchre. And seeing two angels in white sitting -- the one at the head and the other at the feet, where the body of Jesus HAD lain, they said unto her, "Woman, why weepest thou?"
She responded, saying, "Because they have taken away my Lord, and I know not where they have laid Him." And when she had thus said this, she turned herself back and saw Jesus standing, but knew not that it was Jesus. (John 20:11-14)
Jesus said unto her, "Woman, why weepest thou? Whom seekest thou?"
The woman supposing Him to be the gardener said unto Him, "Sir, if thou have borne Him hence, tell me where thou hast laid Him, and I will take Him away."
Jesus whispers the name "Mary" and immediately she turns herself saying, "Rabboni" which is to say, "Master." She knew in whom she believed, and at that moment, she realized that her Lord and Saviour had risen from the dead.
This is why Jesus said unto her, "Touch Me not for I am not yet ascended to My Father, but go to My brethren and say unto them -- I ascend unto my Father and your Father and to My God and to your God." (John 20:17) This scripture corresponds with the words Jesus spoke in John 16:28 which states: "I came forth from the Father, and am come into the world; again, I leave the world and go to the Father."
Earlier however, even before the feast of the passover, Jesus knew that His hour was come. And that as such, He was to depart out of this world "unto the Father, having loved His own which were in the world -- He loved them unto the end ... Jesus knowing that the Father had given all things into His hands, and that He was come from God, and went to God." (John 13:1-3)
Why is this important? Because herein, Jesus was about to reveal His identity to anyone with eyes to see and ears to hear. Just like He did to Mary at the sepulchre, before ascending to the Father.
In John 14, Jesus is instructing the disciples to not let their heart be troubled because if they believe in God, they would believe also in Him. He then shares that He is going to prepare a place for them "and if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto Myself; that where I am, there you may be also. And whither I go ye know, and the way you know." (John 14:1-4)
But Thomas (or doubting Thomas as some call him) said "Lord, we know not whither Thou goest, and how can we know the way?" Jesus said unto Thomas, "I am the Way, the Truth, and the Life. No man cometh unto the Father, but by Me." (John 14:5-6)
What did Jesus say next? "If you [Thomas] had known Me, you should have known My Father also; and from henceforth you know Him and have seen Him." (John 14:7)
Philip, who had been standing by listening to this conversation states: "Lord, show us the Father and it sufficeth us." 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 has seen the Father, and how sayest thou then, "Show us the Father." (John 14:8-15)
Jesus, their Lord God was about to become their Saviour. Our Saviour. Jesus said, "I will pray the Father and He shall give you another Comforter, that He may abide with you forever .. even the Spirit of truth; whom the world cannot receive because it sees Him not, neither knows Him ... but you know Him, for He dwells with you and shall be in you. I will not leave you comfortless -- I will come to you. Yet a little while, and the world seeth Me no more, but you see Me because I live, you shall live also." (John 14:16-19)
A little later, Jesus said, "But the Comforter, which is the Holy Ghost, whom the Father will send in My name, He shall teach you all things, and bring all things to your remembrance, whatsoever I have said unto you." (John 14:26)
In other words, Jesus had to ascend to the Father in order for the Comforter to come. Not God in three persons but one God who willingly took on sin-prone flesh -- shedding His precious blood on the cross for you and I.
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 ... the eyes of your understanding being enlightened; that ye may know what is the hope of His calling, and what the riches of the glory of His inheritance in the saints, and what is the exceeding greatness of His power to usward who believe, according to the working of His mighty power -- which He wrought in Christ when He raised Him from the dead, and set Him at His own right hand in the heavenly places." (Ephesians 1:17-19)
And where are those heavenly places? "Far above all principality and power, and might, and dominion, and every name that is named -- not only in this world but also in that which is to come; and hath put all things under His feet, and gave Him to be the Head over all things to the church, which is His body, the fullness of Him that fills all in all. (Ephesians 1:20-23)
Praise Jesus. Stand in the offering plate.
Mary stood at the sepulchre weeping, and as she wept, she stooped down and looked into the sepulchre. And seeing two angels in white sitting -- the one at the head and the other at the feet, where the body of Jesus HAD lain, they said unto her, "Woman, why weepest thou?"
She responded, saying, "Because they have taken away my Lord, and I know not where they have laid Him." And when she had thus said this, she turned herself back and saw Jesus standing, but knew not that it was Jesus. (John 20:11-14)
Jesus said unto her, "Woman, why weepest thou? Whom seekest thou?"
The woman supposing Him to be the gardener said unto Him, "Sir, if thou have borne Him hence, tell me where thou hast laid Him, and I will take Him away."
Jesus whispers the name "Mary" and immediately she turns herself saying, "Rabboni" which is to say, "Master." She knew in whom she believed, and at that moment, she realized that her Lord and Saviour had risen from the dead.
This is why Jesus said unto her, "Touch Me not for I am not yet ascended to My Father, but go to My brethren and say unto them -- I ascend unto my Father and your Father and to My God and to your God." (John 20:17) This scripture corresponds with the words Jesus spoke in John 16:28 which states: "I came forth from the Father, and am come into the world; again, I leave the world and go to the Father."
Earlier however, even before the feast of the passover, Jesus knew that His hour was come. And that as such, He was to depart out of this world "unto the Father, having loved His own which were in the world -- He loved them unto the end ... Jesus knowing that the Father had given all things into His hands, and that He was come from God, and went to God." (John 13:1-3)
Why is this important? Because herein, Jesus was about to reveal His identity to anyone with eyes to see and ears to hear. Just like He did to Mary at the sepulchre, before ascending to the Father.
In John 14, Jesus is instructing the disciples to not let their heart be troubled because if they believe in God, they would believe also in Him. He then shares that He is going to prepare a place for them "and if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto Myself; that where I am, there you may be also. And whither I go ye know, and the way you know." (John 14:1-4)
But Thomas (or doubting Thomas as some call him) said "Lord, we know not whither Thou goest, and how can we know the way?" Jesus said unto Thomas, "I am the Way, the Truth, and the Life. No man cometh unto the Father, but by Me." (John 14:5-6)
What did Jesus say next? "If you [Thomas] had known Me, you should have known My Father also; and from henceforth you know Him and have seen Him." (John 14:7)
Philip, who had been standing by listening to this conversation states: "Lord, show us the Father and it sufficeth us." 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 has seen the Father, and how sayest thou then, "Show us the Father." (John 14:8-15)
Jesus, their Lord God was about to become their Saviour. Our Saviour. Jesus said, "I will pray the Father and He shall give you another Comforter, that He may abide with you forever .. even the Spirit of truth; whom the world cannot receive because it sees Him not, neither knows Him ... but you know Him, for He dwells with you and shall be in you. I will not leave you comfortless -- I will come to you. Yet a little while, and the world seeth Me no more, but you see Me because I live, you shall live also." (John 14:16-19)
A little later, Jesus said, "But the Comforter, which is the Holy Ghost, whom the Father will send in My name, He shall teach you all things, and bring all things to your remembrance, whatsoever I have said unto you." (John 14:26)
In other words, Jesus had to ascend to the Father in order for the Comforter to come. Not God in three persons but one God who willingly took on sin-prone flesh -- shedding His precious blood on the cross for you and I.
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 ... the eyes of your understanding being enlightened; that ye may know what is the hope of His calling, and what the riches of the glory of His inheritance in the saints, and what is the exceeding greatness of His power to usward who believe, according to the working of His mighty power -- which He wrought in Christ when He raised Him from the dead, and set Him at His own right hand in the heavenly places." (Ephesians 1:17-19)
And where are those heavenly places? "Far above all principality and power, and might, and dominion, and every name that is named -- not only in this world but also in that which is to come; and hath put all things under His feet, and gave Him to be the Head over all things to the church, which is His body, the fullness of Him that fills all in all. (Ephesians 1:20-23)
Praise Jesus. Stand in the offering plate.
Monday, April 21, 2014
I Can Do All Things Through Jesus the Christ Who Strengthens Me - Part 889
"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.
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.
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.
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