The Greatest Deception - Part 991

The parable entitled "the unjust steward" might be more appropriately named the "Greatest Deception." There are several reasons for this.

Beginning with Luke 16:2, the Lord said, “So He called him (satan) in and asked him, ‘What is this I hear about you? Give an account of your management because you cannot be manager any longer.”

In the parable of the unjust steward, satan was fired from his job as the accuser of the people. Indeed, what Jesus was proclaiming here was the condemnation of satan. “And in regard to judgement … the prince of this world now stands condemned.” (John 16:11) Up until then, satan had control of the world through people who were willing to cooperate. But as we learn here, in this capacity, satan was actually a hostage taker -- misusing the Law to accuse people.

But let’s backtrack for a moment. Since the beginning, satan has held all of humanity as a hostage because Adam and Eve disobeyed God. Originally, in the Garden, man and woman were given control over the earth. But when the two sinned, they desired to become like their Creator. As a consequence, Adam and Eve were cast out of paradise into the now fallen world that we now know. In their hearts, God wrote the knowledge of right and wrong. But satan, fully aware that God would not renege on His promise to give the world over to men and women, similarly knew that he could – from that point forward -- rule the world through men and women who were willing to cooperate with him.

However, the scriptures state that the wages of sin is death. Therefore, the Master in the parable -- the righteous God -- was legally able to condemn (or fire) satan without further condemning mankind. Indeed, this became the turning point in time whereby the Lord God provided salvation – through the shedding of His blood on the cross – so that we can now receive salvation through faith in Him. Thank You Jesus!

Luke 16:3 “The manager (satan) said to himself, ‘What shall I do now?’ My Master (God) is taking away my job. I’m not strong enough to dig, and I’m ashamed to beg …” Herein, we get a glimpse of how alarmed he is becoming. He urgently begins to wonder what to do. The very law (from the old covenant) that he was using to accuse and repress people has now been rendered useless to him. In fact, satan now stands alone with his demons – forever condemned. Notice that satan doesn’t want to work and likewise, too ashamed to beg (meaning, he is too proud to work and begging for mercy was definitely below his pride filled demeanour).

Luke 16:4 “I know what I’ll do so that, when I lose my job here, people will welcome me into their houses.”

So satan had to quickly develop a plan. Up until this point, satan was able to use the Law to make people feel guilty and ashamed. His profession -- to keep people burdened, discouraged and feeling hopeless all the time. But if he lost his job, then satan could no longer do this. This is why fighting for his right to occupy people’s hearts, minds and souls became so critically important. Indeed, urgent. He had to devise a plan whereby people [would] welcome [him] into their houses [their bodily temples]. Legally, satan needed someone to co-operate with him. Because earth had previously been given to mankind, satan had no authority of his own.

The only chance satan had was through deceiving "those who have" -- a community of people like you and I who were set free from being God’s debtors once and for all. The debt that was paid in full by Jesus' blood shed on the cross so that He -- our Lord God and Saviour -- could become our resting place.

Luke 16:5 “So he called in each one of his Master’s debtors [all of humanity]. He asked the first, ‘How much do you owe my master?’

Making an offer to each individual, satan sets out to implement his plan of deception using various means. As we learn from the parable, even his question to the debtor is part of this deception -- for we owe nothing in Christ Jesus. Salvation is a gift. But as we read, satan asks: “How much do you owe my master?” … meaning: “What do you think it takes for your soul to be right with your conscious?” This is a question that runs deep in the hearts and souls of men and satan knows this.

You see, our heavenly Father created a homing device in our hearts. It is similar to a lifesaving smoke alarm with a low battery. It makes annoying peeps till you finally change the battery. In the same context, satan is quick to provide an answer for our searching hearts through the world around us. When satan asks individuals “What do you owe my Master?” he wants to know your price – how much sin you are burdened by -- and then give you a discount.

Luke 16:6-7 “Eight hundred gallons of olive oil,’ he replied. “The manager told him, ‘Take your bill, sit down quickly, and make it four hundred.” Then he asked the second, ‘And how much do you owe?” [The response] “A thousand bushels of wheat,” he replied.

What is happening here is that the prince of this world – satan – is trying to divert you from the good news gospel message of Jesus and His kingdom. How? By sending any and every distraction in his limited power your way, and is seeking any opening or opportunity to inflict illness (if it is possible). In other words, satan is attempting to keep you from reading and meditating on His Word that elaborates on the goodness and grace of God. Note here that satan does not have the direct authority to rule over us so instead he attempts to get us to negotiate our faith. “Take your bill, sit down quickly, and make it four hundred.”

In so doing, satan is ensuring that we – as believers -- don’t truly trust that we have been set free from worldly bondage – free solely because of the sacrifice Jesus made on the cross. And to make his plan successful, satan has to ensure that the law (that has subsequently made people feel guilty throughout history) remains a factor in our thinking. This is where satan’s negotiations with the debtors becomes critical. The prince of this world wants us to feel indebted.

So, to that end, what does satan do? For those who have not heard the gospel of Jesus Christ, negotiating is easy – enticing these people to become lured lock stock and barrel into worldly endeavours. For example, if you are seeking answers in the world, he will just let you succeed (or, conversely, fail on your own accord). Why? Because to satan, you are not of any strategic importance to him. In fact, you are actually his fodder because satan can manifest through you -- whether you know it or not. In other words, you are already deceived.

However, for believers in Jesus, or those seeking the truth and His righteousness, satan develops a particular plan of deception. This is where negotiating a price becomes the ultimate objective. “Take your bill, sit down quickly, and make it four hundred.” Herein, satan actually condones believers who wish to pursue the gospel -- that is, to a degree. For example, believers can model their lives after the example of those who represent the "worldly standard" of Christianity rather than worship the only mediator between God and man – the man Christ Jesus. If one insists on going to church, satan tries to lead them to congregations that excel on “form and culture” but ignore the power and the authority of the Word. Indeed, satan does not even mind you becoming active participants in the church as long as your involvement is part of that pre-negotiated price.

The result? Half-heartedness. People who believe that they are still responsible to the law and good works as part of their salvation package and as such, have not accepted God’s gift of salvation – the blood of Jesus shed on the cross -- that truly sets us free. Instead, there is a part of us that still honours the law – and when we fail, we feel guilty and burdened all over again. Not free as our Lord God and Saviour wanted us to become.

Others believe that salvation comes from the good works we do, again negating God’s sacrifice on the cross for you and I. Thus, satan has been successful in creating half-hearted Christians – with half of us still believing that we are under the law. One foot in the old covenant and it's legal teachings.

Luke 16:8 “The master commended the dishonest manager because he had acted shrewdly. For the people of this world are more shrewd in dealing with their own kind than are the people of the light.”

Here, the master (God) commends the dishonest manager (satan) for turning certain defeat into a feat. The Lord has recognized the devil’s conniving and how his deception has been able to keep people burdened and busy by the cares of this world, rather than accepting the many blessings of our Lord. With sadness, the Lord observes how people pursue worldly things with relentless shrewdness while people of the light -- who have true riches and the Most High King at their disposal – would allow satan to remain as prince of this world.

The deception then is this. As believers in Jesus, we have been given authority over all the things of this world. Remember, Jesus in the boat? The disciples awakened Him from His sleep when the storm hit. Jesus arose and rebuked the wind and said unto the sea, “Peace be still.” And the wind ceased and there was great calm. Jesus then said to His disciples, “And why are you so fearful. Why is it that ye have no faith?” (Mark 4:39-40) In this example, Jesus fully expected that His disciples would calm the sea, by the power and authority given to them. (Yes, Jesus expects the same from us today).

Unfortunately, it is this deception -- our half-heartedness in our faith journey -- that has rendered the power and authority that Jesus gives to those who seek Him and His righteousness to be of no effect … and in so doing, have actually allowed satan to regain and retain control of this world.

Jesus said, "Make to yourselves friends of the mammon of unrighteousness that when ye fail, they may receive you into everlasting habitations." (Luke 16:9 KJV)

The NIV states: “I tell you, use worldly wealth to gain friends for yourselves, so that when it is gone, you will be welcomed into eternal dwellings. Whoever can be trusted with very little can also be trusted with much, and whoever is dishonest with very little will also be dishonest with much.”

The Lord is sharing several messages here. First, He is instructing us – the children of light who know Jesus -- to become as shrewd and cunning as the unjust steward -- encouraging believers to use worldly endeavours to increase His kingdom. For instance, using our worldly wealth to reach out in love to those who do not know the good news gospel of Jesus. Forgiving debtors of their debt. By giving all of ourselves -- 100% of our time and labour -- to building the kingdom. Standing in the offering plate. In so doing, we will receive many friends who will in time welcome us into eternal dwellings.

But more importantly, the Lord is saying, “Do not be afraid, little flock, for your Father has been pleased to give you the Kingdom” … meaning that we cannot pay our way into heaven. The price for our sins and transgressions (the law) were paid in full once and for all on the cross. Therefore, we need to take hold of our freely given salvation, believing in His grace and mercy. No negotiating for a price. And no half-heartedness. Why?

Luke 16:13 Because ... “No one can serve two masters. Either you will hate the one and love the other, or you will be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve both God and money.”

Here is the overarching message of the parable of the unjust steward and one of the greatest lessons within the Bible. That is, as expressed by Jesus: “No one can serve two masters.” What Jesus is saying here is simply that He will not manifest through individuals who do not single heartedly serve the Lord Jesus as their Saviour and King.

"Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all your heart, with all your soul and with all your mind."

This means that when we accept satan’s proposed discount (negotiating a half-hearted devotion to Jesus), we render the Word of God (the power and authority of God) ineffective.

"Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ which according to His abundant mercy hath begotten us again unto a lively hope by the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead - to an inheritance incorruptible and undefiled and that fades not away -- reserved in heaven for you -- who are kept by the power of God through faith unto salvation ready to be revealed in the last time." (I Peter 1:3-5)

More on “What is half-heartedness?” to come in the days ahead.

In the interim, here we are, 2000 years later, from the day that Jesus set us all free from condemnation, yet we still see a majority of mankind living lives of quiet desperation -- often poor, sick, confused and feeling hopeless. My friend, do not settle for man’s traditional standard of what your faith walk should look like.

Stand in the offering plate, pressing into Jesus with all your mind, heart and soul. From this relationship flows everlasting life that will leave everything else in the dust.

He Sent Forth His Word and Healed Them - Part 990

"He sent His Word, and healed them, and delivered them from their destructions." (Psalm 107:20)

Why? So that through the healing and deliverance that can only come from Him, others would praise the Lord for His goodness and grace. There are several examples of healing and deliverance shortly after the people who listened were astonished at Jesus' doctrine -- because He taught with authority, and not as the scribes. (Matthew 7:28-29) Indeed, the people were astonished at His doctrine, "for His Word was with power." (Luke 4:32) Even the authorities charged with capturing Jesus said, "Never any spake like this man." (John 7:36)

When Jesus had come down from the mountain, great multitudes followed Him. (Matthew 8:1) This does not come as a surprise, because often, Jesus was met with crowds. In this example, behold, there came a leper and worshiped Him, saying, "Lord, if Thou wilt, Thou canst make me clean." And Jesus put forth His hand and touched him, saying, "I will, be thou clean." Immediately, his leprosy was cleansed. Jesus then said unto the man, "See thou tell no man, but go thy way, shew thyself to the priest, and offer the gift that Moses commanded, for a testimony unto them." (Matthew 8:1-4)

The same example was repeated by Mark, who wrote: "And there came a leper to Him, beseeching Him,  and kneeling down to Him, and saying unto Him, "If Thou wilt, Thou canst make me clean." And Jesus, moved with compassion put forth [His] hand, and touched him, and saith unto him, and he was cleansed. And He straightly charged him, and forthwith sent him away, and said unto him, "See thou say nothing to any man, but go thy way, show thyself to the priest, and offer for thy cleansing those things which Moses commanded, for a testimony unto them." (Mark 1:40-44)

And repeated again by Luke who also confirmed the man's healing. "And it came to pass when He was in a certain city, behold a man full of leprosy; who seeing Jesus fell on [his] face, and besought Him saying, "Lord, if Thou wilt, Thou canst make me clean." And He put forth [His] hand, and touched him, saying, "I will; be thou clean." And immediately the leprosy departed from him. (Luke 5:12-13)

But the man who was healed went out and began to publish the news, and to blaze abroad the matter, insomuch that Jesus could no more openly enter into that city, but was without in desert places. Even though Jesus charged him to tell no man, "but go, and show thyself to the priest, and offer for thy cleansing, according as Moses commanded, for a testimony unto them" the man could not keep the miracle quiet. (Luke 5:14)

Note that this latter command was given because "in the day of his cleansing," the Law (under the old covenant -- which still applied because Jesus had not yet ascended) states that a leper shall be brought unto the priest and the priest shall go forth out of the camp; and the priest shall look, and behold if the plague of leprosy be healed in the leper, then shall the priest command to take for him that is to be cleansed two birds alive and clean and cedar wood, and scarlet, and hyssop, and the priest shall command that one of the birds be killed in an earthen vessel over running water. As for the living bird, he shall take it, and the cedar wood, and the scarlet, and the hyssop, and shall dip them and the living bird in the blood of the bird that was killed over the running water, and he shall sprinkle upon him that is to be cleansed from the leprosy seven times, and shall pronounce him clean, and shall let the living bird loose into the open field." (Leviticus 13:1-3; 14:1-57) There is more to the rituals than explained here but suffice it to know, that there was a prescribed process to undertake as a consequence of healing.

However, the good news was that Jesus healed the man, and the man wanted everyone to know of his miraculous healing. So much so that as the news spread abroad of Jesus, great multitudes came together to hear, and to be healed by Him of their infirmities. This is not the only example of healing in the scriptures, but it is interesting to note what happened next. That is, Jesus withdrew Himself into the wilderness and prayed. (Luke 5:15)

Pray always. Pray evermore. Pray without ceasing. Just as our Lord God and Saviour did when He walked the earth. Jesus is our example. And similar to when many of the people believed on Him, we are to do the same, trusting Jesus for our daily sustenance. Indeed, Jesus said, "If any man will do His will, he shall know of the doctrine, whether it be of God, or I speak of Myself. He that speaketh of himself seeketh His own glory; but He that seeketh His glory that sent Him, the same is true and no unrighteousness is in Him." (John 7:16-19)

Therefore, believe in Jesus today, for He is the resurrection and the life. He said, "He that believeth in Me, though he were dead, yet shall he live. And whosoever liveth and believeth in Me shall never die." (John 11:25-26) Moreover, Jesus is the healer, provider, and comforter. He never fails.

Jesus asked, "Believest thou this?"

Stand in the offering plate.

The Stone Which the Builders Rejected Has Become the Head - Part 989

On this earth we have an abundance of rocks and stone and as well little gold. The latter includes material things which are sought after by many. But in this endeavour to become rich, they in turn have often lost their spiritual focus. This serves as a reminder of a story in the New Testament when the apostles of Jesus saw a man begging. They said to the man, "Silver nor gold have I none" ... but what they did have, the apostles willingly gave to the person.

Indeed, the apostles said, "In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth stand up and walk." The individual leaping to his feet ran and jumped in that Jewish temple courtyard. Another such instance recorded in the scriptures is when Peter walking down a street was confronted with sick, lame and infirm persons. Here, they lay on the highways and byways, hoping that even if the very shadow of Peter fell upon them, they would be healed.

But for some people, these recorded truths in the scriptures seem to be offensive. Strange reasoning behind this but I digress. In reality, we should be earnestly pursuing the question that shows why these people were healed. What did Jesus see in these people that a miracle of unexpected proportions became the outcome? What is the lesson we should be adhering to today? Certainly, we should not be turning a blind eye to the recorded factual happenings in the scriptures in favour of a more comfortable pew.

Neither should we lay aside God’s written prescription and choose to do it my (our) way -- spitting out the counsel of God -- and erecting our own revisionist history in stone monuments.

This explains why this day can be viewed as a very sad monumental day, a day whereby the world stood still. A very long day. A day where all the nations of the earth gasped and our hearts collectively sank within us. A day when demonic inspired religious zealots expedited their long planned satanic scheme upon ordinary, innocent, hard working, men and women who sought only to provide for the temporal needs of their loved ones.

Lord, hear our humble cries. Deliver us from the dark night of terror -- when our erected financial world towering monument of stone tumbled brought to nought in one hour -- our Babylon strewn. The pillars of our hearts rocked with the enormity.

Yes Lord we need you every moment of every day. Your presence makes us whole. Jesus there is no God like you. In fact, it is in you Lord that we trust. You alone Jesus are our hope and our strength. Please Lord, arise within our hearts and let all our enemies be scattered. The golden calf we will not worship because as for me and my house, we will serve the Lord.

Our Lord God and Saviour -- you were in the man Christ Jesus, the Ark of the covenant, wood (earth) overlaid with gold. God in Jesus. The same God who created us in the beginning willingly shed His precious blood on the cross for you and I. Thy kingdom come.

Indeed, in spite of the religious zealots of this day who would keep us busy doing anything but reading His Word for our edification, all power in Heaven and upon earth still exists in Jesus. When we seek Jesus with all our heart, soul, mind and strength, we are clothed in His righteousness. It also explains why we don't serve the golden calf -- the monetary constructs of this world. Remember the widow lady who only had two copper coins to give? She knew who she served, and that He would never fail.

"And [Jesus] looked up, and saw the rich men casting their gifts into the treasury. And He saw also a certain poor widow casting in thither two mites.

And He said, "Of a truth I say unto you, that this poor widow hath cast in more than they all: For all these have of their abundance cast in unto the offerings of God: but she of her penury hath cast in all the living that she had." (Mark 12:42; Luke 20:45 - 21:4)

Yes, the stone which the builders rejected has become the Head of the body of Christ. (Psalm 118:22; Acts 4:11; Mark 12:10; Matthew 21:42) His Church, made up of people who firmly believe on Jesus and follow His teachings as outlined in His Word.

Let the Lord Jesus lead you and guide you into all truth -- His wisdom and knowledge today for you will not be disappointed. Blessings in Jesus' name.

For Thus It Becometh Us To Fulfill All Righteousness - Part 988

It is almost as if water baptism is quickly becoming a tradition of the past, particularly when many church organizations are removing all references to water baptism from their statement(s) of faith. But what does the Bible say?

First and foremost, Jesus Himself was baptized by John the Baptist. Indeed, if Jesus is to be our example, then shouldn't we as disciples of our Lord Jesus the Christ also be baptized in water. In Matthew 3, John is baptizing people with water unto repentance, but throughout, is telling of the One that will come after him who "is mightier than I, whose shoes I am not worthy to bear; He shall baptize you with the Holy Ghost and fire -- whose fan in His hand, and He will thoroughly purge the floor, and gather His wheat into the garner; but He will burn up the chaff with unquenchable fire." (Matthew 3:11-12)

Malachi presents the latter part of this scripture in this fashion. "And He shall sit [as] a refiner and purifier of silver; and He shall purify the sons of Levi, and purge them as gold and silver, that they may offer unto the Lord an offering in righteousness." (Malachi 3:3) And in I Peter, "Ye also as lively stones are built up a spiritual house, an holy priesthood to offer up spiritual sacrifices acceptable to God by Jesus Christ." (I Peter 2:5) This is why we are to stand in the offering plate but I digress.

Then John sees Jesus coming from Galilee. What is Jesus' purpose in seeing John? To be baptized of John. (Matthew 3:13)

"But John forbade Him, saying, "I have need to be baptized of Thee, and Thou comest to me?" And Jesus answering said unto him, "Suffer [it to be so] now; for thus it becometh us to fulfill all righteousness." (Matthew 3:15)

And Jesus, when He was baptized went up straightway out of the water. Mark confirms the same when he wrote: "And it came to pass in those days that Jesus came from Nazareth of Galilee and was baptized of John in Jordan." (Mark 1:9-10) Note here also that as soon as Jesus was baptized the spirit of this world drove Him into the wilderness for forty days to be tempted of satan.

The importance of water baptism is similarly noted in Acts where Peter is saying: "Of a truth I perceive that God is no respecter of persons, but in every nation he that feareth Him, and worketh righteousness, is accepted with Him.The Word which [God] sent unto the children of Israel, preaching peace by Jesus Christ; (He is Lord of all), That Word [I say] ye know which was published throughout all Judaea and began from Galilee, after the baptism which John preached -- how God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Ghost and with power; who went about doing good, and healing all that were oppressed of the devil, for God was with Him." (Acts 10:34-38)

Baptism also signifies the cleansing work of salvation, and the washing of regeneration. A new birth whereby we were previously dead in trespasses and sins but are now renewed and clothed in His righteousness. (Acts 22:16; Ephesians 5:26; Titus 3:5; Acts 10:44-48; Romans 8:29; John 3:5-6; John 1-12-13; Ephesians 3:15; Colossians 2:13)

And how are we supposed to be baptized in water? The same way that the first 3,000 believers into the early church were. That is, according to Acts 2:38-42, whereby Peter, standing with the eleven is preaching.

"Now when they heard [this] they were pricked in their heart, and said unto Peter and to the rest of the apostles, "Men and brethren, what shall we do?" Then Peter said unto them, "Repent and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost, for the promise is unto you, and to your children, and to all that are afar off, [even] as many as the Lord our God shall call." And with many other words did he testify, and exhort saying, "Save yourselves from this untoward generation." Then they that gladly received his word were baptized, and the same day there were added [unto them] three thousand souls. And they continued steadfastly in the apostles' doctrine and fellowship, and in breaking of bread, and in prayers." (Acts 2:37-42)

A good message for you and I too. Save ourselves from this untoward generation that desires to eliminate water baptism from their respective statements of faith. And if you haven't been baptized in water yet, be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins so that you too can receive the gift of the Holy Ghost. (Acts 2:38) Stand in the offering plate.

We Have Also A More Sure Word Of Prophecy - Part 987

"We have also 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 private interpretation ... for the prophecy came not in old time by the will of man, but holy men of God spake -- moved by the Holy Ghost." (II Peter 1:19-21)

Interestingly, the corresponding verse in John 1:4 states: "In Him was life and the life was the light of men, and the light shineth in darkness and the darkness comprehended it not." (John 1:4) Who was the true light? Jesus -- "the true light which lighteth every man that cometh into the world." (John 1:5)

Yes, Jesus who was in the world, and the world made by Him and yet, the world knew Him not. He came unto His own and His own received Him not." (John 1:9-11) 

This is the reason we preach not ourselves to the world, but Christ Jesus the Lord ... for the same God "who commanded the light to shine out of darkness hath shined in our hearts -- to give the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ." (II Corinthians 4:5-6)

The light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ. The greatest love story ever told to mankind. 

That is, this is the day of salvation, where we can have this treasure -- our Lord God and Saviour Jesus the promised Christ -- in our earthen vessels -- "that the excellency of the power may be of God, and not of us."  (II Corinthians 4:6) So that when we ask Jesus into our heart and lives, He can live within us in order "that the man of God may be perfect, thoroughly furnished unto all good works." (II Timothy 3:16)

Why? Because when God made the promise to Abraham and subsequently, it was imputed to him for righteousness, note that "it was not written for his sake alone, that it was imputed to him, but for us also, to whom it shall be imputed if we believe on Him that raised up Jesus our Lord from the dead, who was delivered for our offences, and was raised again for our justification." (Romans 4:16-25)

Therefore, our salvation is of faith and not the man-made constructs of religious institutions that exist today -- that by grace to the end the promise might be sure to all the seed; not to that only which is of the law, but to that also which is of the faith. (Romans 4:16) Thus, be thankful that all good things come from the Father of lights, who wishes to live within you. Be diligent in your faith, that ye may be found of Him in peace, without spot, and blameless, and account that the long suffering of our Lord is His gift of salvation. (II Peter 3:14-15)

Most of all, thank Jesus for His blessings, His goodness and grace and mercy that surpasses all human understanding! Stand in the offering plate.

Don't Miss Out on His Promised Blessing to You and I - Part 986

As we examine the topic, separating the wheat from the tares, we find that the apostle Paul starts asking pointed questions to confirm his initial suspicions. Think about this. In his endeavour to separate the wheat from the tares, Paul asks dubious questions of the believers. In the beginning, these questions may sound harsh. They were definitely not simple questions, but they were questions that were asked with the intention of shaking the tree. Questions regarding the very Biblical foundations and truths were asked of these supposedly professing believers. Let's see what falls out the tree. 

Paul never withheld the punches when it came to staying steadfast in the truth. And in his mind, it had become abundantly evident that a fox had entered the chicken pen.

O foolish believers! Who has fascinated you? Have you been bewitched? 

In today's terms, it could be a television evangelist (with glitz and glamour) who entices you to depart from the truth -- the Biblical truth that you had earlier embraced. But as the Bible reveals, truth does not bow the knee to error. There is only one gospel message and it is the same gospel message yesterday, today and forever. 

Did you receive the Spirit by the works of the law? Or, as the Bible states, because you heard the gospel of Jesus and believed? Man does not begin his spiritual life in the Spirit and then complete it by reverting to outward materialistic observances? Are the gifts of Him (spiritual gifts) who furnishes you with the fullness of the Spirit, and works within you the power of miracles now of no effect? It is in the context of these opposing perspectives that the theme separating the wheat from the tares continues.    

Abraham had faith in God, and the resulting effect was God imputing toward him righteousness. Know this -- that only those who have faith to believe God, as Abraham expressed, became clothed in God’s imputed righteousness. Surely, you must see, that the true descendants of Abraham are men who have faith.

You must also see that throughout, the scriptures anticipated God’s justification of the Gentiles. God said to Abraham, "Because you have believed, then in blessing, I will bless you. Similarly, as a consequence of faith, you too are able to enjoy all of God's blessings, just as Abraham of the Old Testament did as a result of believing God.

But for all those who prefer observance of the law over God's plan of salvation, the scriptures say to let those people remain under the curse. That is, "Cursed be everyone who does not persist in carrying out all that this book of the law prescribes." The law teaches that he who preaches living under the rules and dictates of the law had better live and obey all the laws prescribed therein. 

But even though the law was given through Moses, God had a better plan. He said that  grace and truth and justification comes from believing. This is why the law is not a matter of faith, nor does the good works expected under the law result in salvation. Rather, as the scriptures point out, the justified shall live because of their faith in God.

Further, there are reasons why the law has nothing to do with faith. That ability to stand before God would be an impossibility if it wasn't for God's plan of salvation. Christ (God veiling Himself in flesh as an only begotten Son) has ransomed us from the curse pronounced in the law, by taking on the pronounced curse on Himself. For us. For the scripture states, "There is a curse on every man who is crucified on a tree."

God’s purpose is therefore made plain. The promised blessing given to Abraham was also to be imparted to the non Jews from all nations in the days to follow. The promised blessing was so that all men and women could receive the promised gift of God’s Spirit.

Yes, the law may have been given through Moses but grace and truth and justification comes by believing the word of God (Jesus.). Salvation then is not of works. Salvation is obtained by putting your hand in the hand of the man who stills the water -- the same man that even the wind and the sea obey. 

And yet, in spite of God's willingness to die on the cross for us, we harden our hearts. What we should be doing instead is accepting that God is love. And that His love demonstrated and conveyed toward all men when He laid down His life as a Son for you and me. Let the preaching of His word and the praising of His name begin so that we all may flourish. His name is Jesus. The first and the last, the beginning and the end, the Alpha and Omega. Beside Jesus, there is no other. Stand in the offering plate.

Because There Is No Truth Nor Mercy Nor Knowledge of God In The Land - Part 985

"My people are destroyed for lack of knowledge; because thou hast rejected knowledge, I will also reject thee, that thou shalt be no priest to me; seeing thou hast forgotten the law of thy God, I will also forget thy children." (Hosea 4:6)

This scripture has been cited here numerous times but often in a different context from the direction I will be taking this day. Instead, I would like to compare the above prophecy from Hosea with the following promise from the Lord, when He said, "Put Me in remembrance." (Isaiah 43:26) Indeed, put this same Lord God in remembrance today -- "I, even I, He that blotteth out thy transgressions for Mine own sake, and will not remember thy sins ... put Me in remembrance." (Isaiah 43:25-26)

Who is the Lord speaking to here? "This people have I formed for Myself; they shall show forth My praise." (Isaiah 43:21) As we know from the new testament, He is speaking to a peculiar people. A chosen generation. A royal priesthood willing to show forth His praises day in and day out. Willing to walk in the cool of the day with our Lord and Saviour, praising Him continually for His goodness and mercy. Why? Because we are a chosen generation.

"But ye are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, an holy nation, a peculiar people; that ye should shew forth the praises of Him who hath called you out of darkness into His marvelous light." (I Peter 2:9)

This is why we are instructed to "hear the Word of the Lord." (Hosea 4:1) To diligently study His Word for our wisdom and knowledge. To "study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the Word of truth." (II Timothy 2:15)

Further, Paul who is an apostle of Jesus Christ, puts us in remembrance "that thou stir up the gift of God which is in thee ..." (II Timothy 1:6)

"For God hath not given us the spirit of fear, but of power , and of love, and of a sound mind. Be not thou therefore ashamed of the testimony of our Lord, but be thou partaker of the afflictions of the gospel according to the power of God who has saved us, and called with an holy calling, not according to our works, but according to His own purpose and grace, which was given us in Christ Jesus before the world began .. but is now made manifest by the appearing of our Saviour Jesus Christ, who hath abolished death, and hath brought life and immortality to light though the gospel ..." (II Timothy 1:7-10)

We have so very much to be thankful for. In fact, David from the Psalms, so eloquently explains the many blessings of the Lord this way.

"He that dwelleth in the secret place of the most High shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty. I will say of the LORD, [He is] my refuge and my fortress: my God; in Him will I trust. Surely He shall deliver thee from the snare of the fowler, [and] from the noisome pestilence. He shall cover thee with His feathers, and under His wings shalt thou trust: His truth [shall be thy] shield and buckler.

Thou shalt not be afraid for the terror by night; [nor] for the arrow [that] flieth by day, [nor] for the pestilence [that] walketh in darkness; [nor] for the destruction [that] wasteth at noonday. A thousand shall fall at thy side, and ten thousand at thy right hand; [but] it shall not come nigh thee.

Only with thine eyes shalt thou behold and see the reward of the wicked, because thou hast made the LORD, [which is] my refuge, [even] the most High, thy habitation. There shall no evil befall thee, neither shall any plague come nigh thy dwelling. For He shall give His angels charge over thee, to keep thee in all thy ways.

They shall bear thee up in [their] hands, lest thou dash thy foot against a stone. Thou shalt tread upon the lion and adder: the young lion and the dragon shalt thou trample under feet. Because He hath set His love upon Me, therefore will I deliver him: I will set him on high, because he hath known My name.

He shall call upon Me, and I will answer him: I [will be] with him in trouble; I will deliver him, and honour him. With long life will I satisfy him, and shew him my salvation." (Psalms 91:1-16)

You see, David personally knew the Lord God that was reaching out to him in love. Today, this same Lord God and Saviour is still saying: "Come now, and let us reason together," saith the Lord, "though your sins be as scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they be red like crimson, they shall be as wool." (Isaiah 1:18)

Yes, Jesus loves you and wants to perform in you a new thing -- one that shall spring forth -- one where "He will even make a way in the wilderness, and rivers in the desert" for His chosen people. (Isaiah 43:9) 

Therefore, ask Jesus into your heart today. Seek His Word, so that the name of our Lord Jesus Christ may be glorified in you, and ye in Him, according to the grace of our God and the Lord Jesus Christ. (II Thessalonians 1:12) Pray always, counting your salvation worthy of this calling, "and fulfill all the good pleasure of His goodness and the work of faith with power. Stand in the offering plate.

Baptism Without Using the Name of Jesus Is An Inaccurate Teaching - Part 984

When the religious culture of this day baptizes people without using the name of Jesus, they are clearly not aligning their teachings with the apostles' doctrine, as presented within the scriptures. Sadly, however, those being baptized miss the power and authority that was destined to be theirs from the beginning because in following through with water baptism, the only name under heaven whereby we must be saved has been deliberately omitted. 

In other words, using the titles -- Father, Son, and Holy Spirit (or Holy Ghost) without acknowledging the name Jesus -- who IS the name of the Father, Son and Holy Spirit -- is a false teaching. 

How can I say this? Because when the apostles (who walked with Jesus throughout His ministry) baptized believers in water, we read that every single person was baptized in the name of Jesus. Even when those that were pricked in their hearts asked Peter, standing with the eleven apostles, "What must we do?" Peter said unto them:

"Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost. For the promise is unto you, and to your children, and to all that are afar off, even as many as the Lord our God shall call. And with many other words did he testify and exhort, saying, "Save yourselves from this untoward generation."

Then they that gladly received his word were baptized: and the same day there were added unto them about three thousand souls. And they continued steadfastly in the apostles' doctrine and fellowship, and in breaking of bread, and in prayers." (Acts 2:38-42)

The message is clearly stated, and if we read through the book of Acts, we see that in every example of water baptism, the new believer was baptized by immersion in the name of Jesus. This was not just a message for the early church. We also are to continue steadfastly in the apostles doctrine and fellowship, and in breaking of bread, and in prayers. (Acts 2:42)

And if His Word is not sufficient for believing, then read the following partial list of evidence disputing the authenticity off Matthew 28:19 -- "A Collection of Evidence Against the Traditional Wording of Matthew 28:19" written by Clinton D. Willis [CWillis@ipa.net]

Catholic Cardinal Joseph Ratzinger: He makes this confession as to the origin of the chief trinity text of Matthew 28:19. "The basic form of our [Matthew 28:19 trinitarian] profession of faith took shape during the course of the second and third centuries in connection with the ceremony of baptism. So far as its place of origin is concerned, the text [Matthew 28:19]came from the city of Rome." The trinity baptism and text of Matthew 28:19 therefore did not originate from the original Church that started in Jerusalem around AD 33. It was rather, as the evidence proves, a later invention of Roman Catholicism -- completely fabricated. Unfortunately, very few know about these historical facts.   

"The Demonstratio Evangelica" by Eusebius: Eusebius was the Church historian and Bishop of Caesarea. On page 152, Eusebius quotes the early book of Matthew that he had in his library in Caesarea. According to this eyewitness of an unaltered Book of Matthew, it could have been the original book or the first copy of the original book of Matthew. Eusebius informs us of Jesus' actual words to his disciples in the original text of Matthew 28:19: "With one word and voice He said to His disciples: "Go, and make disciples of all nations in My Name, teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you." That "Name" is Jesus.

On page 61, Professor and Church historian Walker, reviles the true origin and purpose of Matthew 28:19. This text is the first man-made Roman Catholic Creed that was the prototype for the later Apocryphal Apostles' Creed. Matthew 28:19 was invented along with the Apocryphal Apostles' Creed to counter so-called heretics and gnostics that baptized in the name of Jesus Christ! 

Marcion although somewhat mixed up in some of his doctrine still baptized his converts the Biblical way in the name of Jesus Christ. Matthew 28:19 is the first non-Biblical Roman Catholic Creed! The spurious Catholic text of Matthew 28:19 was invented to support the newer triune - trinity -doctrine. 

Therefore, Matthew 28:19 is not the "Great Commission of Jesus Christ." Rather, Matthew 28:19 is the great Catholic hoax! Acts 2:38, Luke 24:47, and I Corinthians 6:11 give us the ancient original words and teaching of Jesus. 

Further to this point, is it not also strange that Matthew 28:19 is missing from the old manuscripts of Sinaiticus, Curetonianus and Bobiensis?

The Catholic University of America in Washington, D. C. 1923, New Testament Studies Number 5: "The Lord's Command To Baptize An Historical Critical Investigation." by Bernard Henry Cuneo states, quoting from page 27, "The passages in Acts and the letters of St. Paul. These passages seem to point to the earliest form as baptism in the name of the Lord. ... Is it possible to reconcile these facts with the belief that Christ commanded his disciples to baptize in the trine form? 

Had Christ given such a command, it is urged, the Apostolic Church would have followed him, and we should have some trace of this obedience in the New Testament. No such trace can be found. The only explanation of this silence, according to the anti-traditional view, is this the short christological (Jesus Name) formula was (the) original, and the longer triune formula was a later development."

Thankfully, to you and I, the Word of salvation was sent. Therefore, save yourself from this untoward generation of religious traditions that attempt to circumvent His Word. Instead, be obedient, obeying the message of the Holy Ghost as recorded in Acts chapter 2 verses 37-42. It was here that the first 3000 believers were "gladly baptized" into the Name of the Lord Jesus the Christ. 

Peace to all as you submit to the command of the Holy Spirit of JESUS! Stand in the offering plate.

Raising the Horn of Salvation For You and I - Part 983

In the beginning was the Word and the Word was with God and the Word was God. (John 1:18) Indeed, He who knew no sin became sin for you and I, which means God Himself visited us. And, when He did, He raised up a horn of salvation.

Yes, Jesus was the only begotten of God. (John 1:18; I John 4:9; John 3:16) As it is written, He being the SEED of the Holy Spirit, and likewise, in the veins of Jesus did flow the very life of the humanity of God. Therefore, the blood in Jesus' veins was not like our blood. Why? Because in our blood flows the sinful nature of the devil acquired from our forefather Adam -- who was disobedient to the words of his Creator -- in the Garden of Eden. It is for this reason that we all have a prone to sin nature, which no man of himself can tame. 

But something else happened in the very beginning. That is, our Lord and Saviour decided that He would have to become our salvation. Why? Because He knew even then that there would be no other worthy of making such a sacrifice. It is within this framework that we learn how His plan of salvation for you and I became a reality.

You see, Jesus was not the natural seed of Abraham. JESUS was (and is) the promised SEED of the Holy Ghost. In this SEED alone, all the nations of the earth who confess and profess a believing faith in Jesus -- the same Jesus who is the promised Seed -- shall henceforth be blessed of Him [JESUS]. 

How do we know this? Because the blessing is found in both the turning and the expecting that believing faith can move forward, and, as a consequence, JESUS the SEED of promise will usher in the prosperity blessings!

Still, please note that Abraham's offspring are not the promised SEED of blessing. JESUS bore the visible features of Abraham's natural offspring. And yes, JESUS came forth from Mary in whose womb the promised SEED of the Holy Ghost was clothed in sin prone flesh. Mary became a willing surrogate as pertaining to the flesh but He who was inside that veil of flesh was none other than the SEED LIFE of the Holy Ghost. (Luke 1:15) Mary believed in the promised SEED of the Holy Spirit. She herself rejoiced to be the handmaid of the Lord, exclaiming that the Lord her God had become her Saviour. 

This is the point we similarly need to recognize. That God our Creator -- the same Lord God who created us in the beginning -- was willing to take on the form of man so that we might have salvation. "Whosoever is born of God doth not commit sin; for His seed remaineth in him: and he cannot sin, because he is born of God." (I John 3:9)

This is not to suggest that Abraham believed God any less. Certainly that belief was accredited to him as if he were righteous. But of course he was not, for he also lived in a prone to sin natural body. Rather, it was the application of faith that brought upon him unforeseen blessings. God told Abraham that in his SEED would all the nations of the earth be blessed. We are not speaking here of Abraham‘s natural seed. In fact, most of Abraham’s natural seed even today do not believe in the promised SEED of the pure, holy, undefiled SEED of the Holy Ghost, which SEED is JESUS the CHRIST. (I John 3:9) 

"Now to Abraham and his seed were the promises made. He saith not, "And to seeds, as of many; but as of one" ... And to thy seed, which is Christ. And this I say, that the covenant, that was confirmed before of God in Christ, the law, which was four hundred and thirty years after, cannot disannul, that it should make the promise of none effect. For if the inheritance be of the law, it is no more of promise: but God gave it to Abraham by promise." (Galatians 3:16-18)

Still, from this message we need to understand that God is not the God of the Jews only. No sir. Peter also had that seated mindset in the early days but as the scriptures reveal, this mindset was soon removed and replaced with the pure thought that God is also the God of the Gentiles. And that God has poured out upon the Gentiles the very same gift of His Holy Ghost. 

In Acts chapters 2 and 10 we read that there was no difference between them - the Jewish and the Gentiles. In fact, God is building a nation. But within this nation, the only inhabitants in the Kingdom of God are those who have been born again (John 3:15-18). How does one enter? The door into God’s kingdom is through faith in the SEED of promise JESUS the Christ, and acknowledging that God Himself laid down His life as a Son for each and every one of us. He alone offers eternal life as a free gift. This is why we willingly can stand in the offering plate -- because our Lord God willingly became our Saviour. Stand in the offering plate. 

God Himself Became Our Saviour - Part 982

"Looking for that blessed hope and the glorious appearing of the great God and our Saviour Jesus Christ who gave Himself for us, that He might redeem us from all iniquity and purify unto Himself a peculiar people, zealous of good works ..." (Titus 2:13-14)

"But after that the kindness and love of God our Saviour toward man appeared." (Titus 3:4)

Recently, the religious culture of this day has adopted the terminology "Father God" into their dogma, even though there is no such reference given in the scriptures. Before one contests, thinking that the word dogma may be too harsh a word, look at the example given in the definition.

Therein, dogma is described as "a principle or set of principles laid down by an authority as incontrovertibly true." Example: "the Christian dogma of the Trinity."

Another takes this definition further, elaborating on the point being made here today. That is, "dogma definition -- A teaching or set of teachings laid down by a religious group, usually as part of the essential beliefs of the group. Note: The term dogma is often applied to statements put forward by someone who thinks, inappropriately, that they should be accepted without proof."

However, the truth is that both Jesus and the apostles instructed us (as believers in the good news gospel) to align our understanding of His teachings with the Word - never forsaking the apostles' doctrine.

"And they continued steadfastly in the apostles' doctrine and fellowship, and in breaking of bread, and in prayers." (Acts 2:42) Indeed, "study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needs not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the Word of truth ..." (II Timothy 2:15-16)

Too often we accept what man-made religion presents without checking its position for ourselves. The example given above points to the trinity, even though there is no scriptural reference to the trinity. This is why we study His Word, so that we are not carried away with diverse doctrines. So that we can fully understand what Jesus meant when He said, "I and My Father are one."

Other scriptures?

"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 in earth, visible and invisible, whether 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 exist ... and He is the head of the body, the Church." (Colossians 1:15-18)

"And without controversy great is the mystery of godliness; God was manifest in the flesh, justified in the Spirit, seen of angles, preached unto the Gentiles, believed on in the world, received up into glory." (I Timothy 3:16)

"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)

"Behold, a virgin shall be with child, and shall bring forth a son, and they shall call His name Emmanuel, which being interpreted is, God with us." (Matthew 1:23)

"In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God ... All things were made by him; and without him was not any thing made that was made ... 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 1:1-18) 

"Ye [are] My witnesses," saith the LORD, "and My servant whom I have chosen: that ye may know and believe Me, and understand that I [am] He: before Me there was no God formed, neither shall there be after Me." (Isaiah 43:10) 

"In the beginning, God." (Genesis 1:1)

Do not err my beloved. Be ye doers of the Word, and not hearers only. (James 1:22) In fact, trust in the ONLY Lord God and Saviour for your salvation today. Why? Because He is the Alpha and Omega, the first and the last, the beginning and the end. His name is Jesus. Stand in the offering plate.