Stand Up For I Myself Also Am A Man - Part 1029

There are considerable insights in Acts 10 that dispute some of the teachings found within the religious culture of this day. I would like to highlight a few for your reference. Before I do, note that the book of Acts demonstrates how the apostles put into action Jesus' teachings.

"The former treatise have I made, O Theophilus, of all that Jesus began both to do and teach until the day in which He was taken up, after that He through the Holy Ghost had given commandments unto the apostles whom He had chosen -- to whom also He shewed Himself alive after His passion by many infallible proofs, being seen of them forty days, and speaking of the things pertaining to the kingdom of God." (Acts 1:1-2)

Interestingly, the tenth chapter of Acts -- which focuses on Cornelius, a centurion of the band called the Italian, a just man of good report among all the nations of the Jews, and, similarly, a devout man (meaning that he feared God with all his house -- which gave alms to the people and prayed to God alway) presents as an ensample the transition of several men -- and particularly, Cornelius and Simon whose surname is Peter -- as a consequence of the good news gospel of Jesus Christ. (Acts 10:5)

The former centurion -- while fasting and praying sees in a vision evidently about the ninth hour of the day. An angel of God comes into him saying, "Cornelius ... thy prayers and thine alms are come up for a memorial before God." (Acts 10:3-4) And with Peter, he fell into a trance whereby he saw the heaven opened and a certain vessel descending unto him (as it had been a great sheet knit at the four corners, and let down to the earth). Therein, Peter was told to "Rise, Peter, kill and eat" all manner of four footed beasts of the earth, and wild beasts, and creeping things, and fowls of the air. (Acts 10:11-16) Note that Peter had to be told thrice (or three times) before the vessel was received up again into heaven. But I digress.

While Peter doubted in himself what this vision should mean, the men which were sent from Cornelius had made enquiry for Simon's house and stood before the gate. (Acts 10:17) While Peter thought on the vision, the Spirit said unto him, "Behold, three men seek thee. Arise therefore, and get down, and go with them, doubting nothing, for I have sent them." (Acts 10:20)

As Cornelius waited for two of his household servants and a devout soldier to return, he called together his kinsmen and near friends -- his relatives and close friends. (Acts 10:24) Indeed, many were come together. (Acts 10:27) When he saw Peter coming, Cornelius met him and felled down at his feet and worshiped [him]. What did Peter say?

"Stand up; I myself also am a man." (Acts 10:26)

Read that again. "Stand up; I myself also am a man." (Acts 10:26) If Peter had been the first pope, as the Roman Catholic religion of today professes, should he not want to be worshiped or adored by other men -- in the same manner as Cornelius was willing to do? But instead, Peter said, "Stand up; I myself also am a man." (Acts 10:26)

Reading on, we learn that at the time, it was "an unlawful thing for a man that is a Jew to keep company, or come unto one of another nation." (Acts 10:28) Technically, this means that there should have been no association between Peter and Cornelius, by virtue of their respective religious heritage. Still, Peter came to Cornelius "without gainsaying" as soon as he was sent for. (Acts 10:29)

But so did Cornelius immediately send to Joppa for Simon, after seeing the vision in which a man stood before him, saying, "Cornelius, thy prayer is heard and thine alms are had in remembrance in the sight of God." (Acts 10:30-31) In so doing, "all were present before God, to hear all things that are commanded thee of God." (Acts 10:33)

Then Peter opened his mouth and said, "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." (Acts 10:34-36)

The same Word that was in the beginning with God and was God, that came and dwelt among us. (John 1:1-18) His name Emmanuel, being interpreted meaning "God with us." (Matthew 1:21-23; Isaiah 9:6; Isaiah 7:14) Not another person, as religions today would have us believe but Almighty God Himself in the flesh, declaring His peace to all mankind. He is Lord of all.

"The Word which God sent unto the children of Israel, preaching peace by Jesus Christ -- He is Lord of all." (Acts 10:36)

And should there be any questions, Peter further clarifies the gospel when he states:

"That Word, [I say] ye know, which was published throughout all Judae-a and began from Galilee, after the baptism which John preached -- how God annointed 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 -- and we are witnesses of all things which He did both in the land of the Jews and in Jerusalem, whom they slew and hanged on a tree. 

Him God raised up the third day and showed Him openly, not to all the people, but unto witnesses chosen before of God [even] to us who did eat and drink with Him after He rose from the dead. And He commanded us to preach unto the people and to testify that it is He which was ordained of God [to be] the Judge of quick and dead. To Him gave all the prophets witness, that through His name whosoever believeth in Him shall receive remission of sins." (Acts 10:37-43)

We see the same message preached by Peter, standing with the eleven apostles in Acts 2:37-42. So what happens next?

"While Peter yet spake these words, the Holy Ghost fell on all of them which heard the Word. And they of the circumcision which believed were astonished, as many as came with Peter, because that on the Gentiles also was poured out the gift of the Holy Ghost. For they heard them speak with tongues and magnify God." (Acts 10:44-46)

Note that the pouring out of the gift of the Holy Ghost included speaking in tongues and magnifying God. Again, sadly, many religious denominations today proclaim that the pouring out of the gift of the Holy Ghost, evidenced through speaking in tongues ended with the early church. Does that mean that signs and wonders, and healing and miracles ended too? Again, I digress.

Then answered Peter, "Can any man forbid water, that these should not be baptized, which have received the Holy Ghost as well as we?" (Acts 10:47)

"And Peter commanded them to be baptized in the name of the Lord." (Acts 10:48; Acts 2:38-42; Acts 8:16; Acts 19:5; I Corinthians 1:14-17) Again, not 'in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost' as today's religious culture practices when baptizing their congregations BUT IN THE NAME OF THE LORD.

What is His name? That is, what is the name of the Father and Son and Holy Ghost? His name is Jesus. "The Word which God sent unto the children of Israel, preaching peace by Jesus Christ -- He IS Lord of all." (Acts 10:36)

As in the day of Cornelius and Peter, we are to remain steadfast in the apostle's doctrine, believing what is written. (Acts 2:42) The question is why we do not, preferring instead to believe the practices and traditions of a man-made religious culture that does not align with His Word. That is a question that only you can answer. As for me and my house, we will gladly serve the Lord. (Joshua 24:15) And stand firmly in the offering plate with our Lord God and Saviour, Jesus the Christ who willingly shed His precious holy blood on a cross so that we could receive His wonderful gift of salvation.

Neglect Not the Gift That Is In Thee, Which Was Given By Prophecy, With the Laying On of the Hands of the Presbytery.- Part 1028

Paul, an apostle of Jesus Christ (by the will of God) wrote -- "Moreover, I call God for a record upon my soul, that to spare you I came not as yet unto Corinth, not for that we have dominion over your faith but are helpers of your joy -- by faith ye stand." (II Corinthians 1:23)

In previous posts, we learn that through the laying on of hands by apostles Peter and John, the gift of the Holy Ghost was given to the believing Samaritans. Although the scriptural record does not explicitly state that the Samaritans spoke in tongues when they received the Holy Ghost, we are able to assume this because of the number of other examples cited in the Bible whereby tongues accompanied the entrance of the Holy Ghost into believers, and thus, likewise it was an occurrence with the Samaritans too. 

"Now when the apostles which were at Jerusalem heard that Samaria had received the Word of God, they sent unto them Peter and John, who, when they were come down prayed for them that they might receive the Holy Ghost (for as of yet He was fallen upon none of them, only they were baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus). Then laid they ĥands on them and they received the Holy Ghost." (Acts 8:14-17)

As a sidebar to this conversation, gifts of the Holy Ghost include the indwelling presence of the holy Spirit of Jesus. Indeed, Jesus said, "I will not leave you comfortless. I will come to you." (John 14:18) 

But in relation to the gift of tongues, it is a topic that has been much debated among religious institutions. Questions have come forward including whether it is reasonable in the 21st century to assume that believers today could (or even would) still speak in tongues. In fact, one of the favored verses used by institutions for opposing the gift of tongues is the scripture that states tongues will cease. (I Corinthians 13:8)

"Though I speak with the tongues of men and of angels, and have not charity, I am become as sounding brass, or a tinkling cymbal, and though I have the gift of prophecy, and understand all mysteries, and all knowledge; and though I have all faith, so that I could remove mountains, and have not charity, I am nothing. And though I bestow all my goods to feed the poor, and though I give my body to be burned, and have not charity, it profits me nothing. Charity suffers long, and is kind; charity envieth not; charity vaunts not itself, is not puffed up, doth not behave itself unseemly, seeks not her own, is not easily provoked, thinks no evil; rejoices not in iniquity, but rejoices in the truth; bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things. Charity never fails: but whether there be prophecies, they shall fail; whether there be tongues, they shall cease; whether there be knowledge, it shall vanish away." (I Corinthians 13:1-8)

Unfortunately, it is only this latter portion of the verse that they rely on. In so doing, they withhold the rest of the verse which of course mention ‘when” tongues will cease. That is, the most important part -- "when that which is perfect will come."

But this is not all. These institutions also forget that tongues were given as a sign. Not as a sign to them that believe but tongues were given as a sign to those that do not believe. (Acts 2:1-47)

He or she that speaks in an unknown tongue, whether it be tongues of men or angels, or a completely unknown tongue is not speaking to men. No, they are speaking to God. The person praying is praying to God in a spirit language. Although his or her understanding of what he or she is praying about is unfruitful, at least in their natural mind, speaking in tongues represents a pouring out of one's heart to the Lord.

Put another way, in the spirit one is speaking mysteries. Even though the praying believers' understanding is unfruitful, the praying believers are being edified in spirit. For assuredly the believer rightly knows that God knows what is on their mind when they pray. Often, the believer quietly prays in spirit and at times he or she prays also with her natural tongue of understanding. 

What then is the exhortation of the scripture, that believers who have received the Holy Ghost gift of tongues (as it was in the day of Pentecost) should cease to speak in tongues. Indeed, believers ought to continue praying quietly in the spirit until the need of the spirit rests. Some might ask why? Because the same God who hears and sees in secret shall reward openly. At the same time, the gifted believer should pray to receive the gift of interpretation that accompanies the gift of tongues, in order that the believer’s understanding will be nourished. (I Corinthians 12:1-13)

For in the spirit, the believer speaks mysteries. Paul (the apostle to the Gentiles) expressed that he spoke with tongues more than all the ones he was addressing . And as a crescendo, the scriptures also state that believers should not be forbidden to speak in tongues. How do the scriptures put it? Desire spiritual gifts because every good and perfect gift comes from Jesus, the true God as a son. The same God who Himself Fathered us at Calvary. God as a son sacrificed Himself for His children. In other words, God loves His believing children.  

Believe in His good news gospel of peace today. Stand in the offering plate!

For With the Heart Man Believes Unto Righteousness, and With the Mouth Confession is Made Unto Salvation - Part 1027

"Brethren, my heart's desire and prayer to God for Israel is that they might be saved. For I bear them record that they have a zeal of God, but not according to knowledge, for they being ignorant of God's righteousness, and going about to establish their own righteousness, have not submitted themselves unto the righteousness of God." (Romans 10:1-4)

Why is this? Because as the scriptures state: "For Christ is the end of the law for righteousness to every one that believes. For Moses describes the righteousness which is of the Law -- that the man which doeth those things shall live by them -- but the righteousness which is of faith speaketh on this wise, "Say not in thine heart -- Who shall ascend into heaven? (that is, to bring Christ down from above:) or, Who shall descend into the deep? (that is, to bring up Christ again from the dead.) But what saith it? The Word is nigh thee, even in thy mouth, and in thy heart: that is, the Word of faith, which we preach -- that if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised Him from the dead, thou shalt be saved. (Romans 10:5-9)

"For with the heart man believes unto righteousness; and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation." (Romans 10:10)

For the scripture saith, "Whosoever believes on Him shall not be ashamed. For there is no difference between the Jew and the Greek: for the same Lord over all is rich unto all that call upon Him. For whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved." (Romans 10:11-13)

"How then shall they call on Him in whom they have not believed? And how shall they believe in Him of whom they have not heard? And how shall they hear without a preacher? And how shall they preach, except they be sent? As it is written, "How beautiful are the feet of them that preach the gospel of peace, and bring glad tidings of good things!"

But they have not all obeyed the gospel. For Esaias saith, "Lord, who hath believed our report?" So then faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the Word of God.

But I say, "Have they not heard? Yes verily, their sound went into all the earth, and their words unto the ends of the world."

But I say, "Did not Israel know? First Moses saith, I will provoke you to jealousy by them that are no people, and by a foolish nation I will anger you." But Esaias is very bold, and saith, "I was found of them that sought Me not; I was made manifest unto them that asked not after Me." But to Israel He saith, "All day long I have stretched forth My hands unto a disobedient and gainsaying people." (Romans 10:14-21)

I say then, "Hath God cast away His people?" God forbid. For I also am an Israelite, of the seed of Abraham, of the tribe of Benjamin. God hath not cast away His people which He foreknew. (Romans 11:1-2)

"Wot ye not what the scripture saith of Elias? How he maketh intercession to God against Israel saying, "Lord, they have killed Thy prophets, and digged down Thine altars; and I am left alone, and they seek my life." (Romans 11:3-4)

But what saith the answer of God unto him? "I have reserved to myself seven thousand men, who have not bowed the knee to the image of Baal. Even so then at this present time also there is a remnant according to the election of grace. And if by grace, then is it no more of works: otherwise grace is no more grace. But if it be of works, then it is no more grace: otherwise work is no more work." (Romans 11:4-6)

What then? Israel hath not obtained that which he seeketh for; but the election hath obtained it, and the rest were blinded. (According, as it is written, God hath given them the spirit of slumber, eyes that they should not see, and ears that they should not hear;) unto this day.

And David saith, "Let their table be made a snare, and a trap, and a stumblingblock, and a recompence unto them. Let their eyes be darkened, that they may not see, and bow down their back alway." I say then, "Have they stumbled that they should fall? God forbid: but rather through their fall salvation is come unto the Gentiles, for to provoke them to jealousy." (Romans 11:7-11)

Now if the fall of them be the riches of the world, and the diminishing of them the riches of the Gentiles; how much more their fullness? For I speak to you Gentiles, inasmuch as I am the apostle of the Gentiles, I magnify mine office -- if by any means I may provoke to emulation them which are my flesh, and might save some of them. (Romans 11:12-14)

"For if the casting away of them be the reconciling of the world, what shall the receiving of them be, but life from the dead? For if the first fruit be holy, the lump is also holy: and if the root be holy, so are the branches. And if some of the branches be broken off, and thou, being a wild olive tree, wert grafted in among them, and with them partakest of the root and fatness of the olive tree; boast not against the branches. But if thou boast, thou bearest not the root, but the root thee. Thou wilt say then, "The branches were broken off, that I might be grafted in." (Romans 11:15-19)

Well; because of unbelief they were broken off, and thou standest by faith. Be not highminded, but fear, for if God spared not the natural branches, take heed lest He also spare not thee. Behold therefore the goodness and severity of God: on them which fell, severity; but toward thee, goodness, if thou continue in His goodness: otherwise thou also shalt be cut off. And they also, if they abide not still in unbelief, shall be grafted in: for God is able to graft them in again. (Romans 11:20-23)

"For if thou wert cut out of the olive tree which is wild by nature, and wert grafted contrary to nature into a good olive tree: how much more shall these, which be the natural branches, be grafted into their own olive tree? For I would not, brethren, that ye should be ignorant of this mystery, lest ye should be wise in your own conceits; that blindness in part is happened to Israel, until the fulness of the Gentiles be come in." (Romans 11:24-26)

And so all Israel shall be saved: as it is written, "There shall come out of Sion the Deliverer, and shall turn away ungodliness from Jacob ... For this is My covenant unto them, when I shall take away their sins." As concerning the gospel, [they are] enemies for your sakes: but as touching the election, they are beloved for the Father's sakes.

For the gifts and calling of God are without repentance. For as ye in times past have not believed God, yet have now obtained mercy through their unbelief. Even so have these also now not believed, that through your mercy they also may obtain mercy. For God hath concluded them all in unbelief, that He might have mercy upon all." (Romans 11:24-32)

" O the depth of the riches both of the wisdom and knowledge of God! How unsearchable are His judgments, and His ways past finding out! For who hath known the mind of the Lord? or who hath been His counsellor? Or who hath first given to Him, and it shall be recompensed unto Him again? For of Him, and through Him, and to Him are all things: to whom be glory for ever. Amen." (Romans 11:33-36)

Stand in the offering plate.

In Whom We Have Redemption Through His Blood, the Forgiveness of Sins According to the Riches of His Grace - Part 1026

"In whom ye also [trusted], after that ye heard the Word of truth, the gospel of your salvation: in whom also after that ye believed, ye were sealed with that holy Spirit of promise, which is the earnest of our inheritance, until the redemption of the purchased possession unto the praise of His glory ..." (Ephesians 1:13-14)

Herein, the gospel message is clear. That is, we receive His gift of salvation when we respond in humbleness to the Word of truth, believing with all our heart, soul, mind and strength in the good news gospel of Jesus Christ. (If you have not yet asked Jesus to be Lord in your life by faith, this would be a good time to do so. When the people were pricked in their hearts, and asked what they must do to be saved, Peter (standing with the eleven) said, "Repent and be baptized every one of you in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost." - Acts 2:37-42). 

Only then can we all be sealed with that holy Spirit of promise -- the Comforter, the Holy Ghost in whom Jesus (after being taken up) had given His commandments unto the apostles. Note that the scripture reads -- Jesus speaking -- THROUGH the Holy Ghost. (Acts 1:2)  Not another person (or persons) of the Godhead, as some in the religious culture would have us believe. Not a trinity or tri-une God but one Lord. "For I [am] the Lord thy God, the holy One of Israel, thy Saviour ..." (Isaiah 43:3) The same Word that was with God and was God dwelt among us -- and paid the price for our salvation on the cross so that we might receive eternal life. (John 1:1-18)  

Indeed, the same Holy Ghost that impregnated Mary with His seed. "God with us." (Matthew 1:23)  "And she shall bring forth a son and thou shalt call His name JESUS for He shall save His people from their sins." (Matthew 1:21) One God who willingly became our Saviour. 

God, our Saviour prophesied decades before His birth as the Messiah, the Christ and Saviour of the world. "And the Spirit of the LORD shall rest upon Him, the Spirit of wisdom and understanding, the Spirit of counsel and might, the Spirit of knowledge and of the fear of the LORD." (Isaiah 11:2) 

"And in the sixth month, the angel Gabriel was sent from God unto a city of Galilee, named Nazareth, to a virgin espoused to a man whose name was Joseph of the house of David and the virgin's name [was] Mary. And the angel came in unto her, and said, "Hail, [thou that art] highly favoured, the Lord [is] with thee: blessed [art] thou among women." 

And when she saw [him] she was troubled at his saying and cast in her mind what manner of salutation this should be. And the angels said unto her, "Fear not, Mary: for thou hast found favour with God. And behold, thou shall conceive in the womb and bring forth a son, and shalt call His name Jesus. He shall be great and shall be called the Son of the Highest, and the Lord God shall give unto Him the throne of His father David; and He shall reign over the house of Jacob for ever and of His kingdom there shall be no end." 

Then said Mary unto the angel, "How shall this be, seeing I know not a man?" And the angel answered and said unto her, "The Holy Ghost shall come upon thee, and the power of the Highest shall overshadow thee: therefore, also that holy thing which shall be born of thee shall be called the Son of God." 

The same Holy Ghost that Jesus spoke of when He 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) 

The same Holy Ghost that Jesus referred to when He said, "But when the Comforter is come, whom I will send unto you from the Father, [even] the Spirit of truth which proceedeth from the Father, He shall testify of Me ..." (John 15:26)

And if we still don't understand, Jesus further clarified by stating, "Nevertheless I tell you the truth. It is expedient for you that I go away, for if I go not away, the Comforter will not come unto you but if I depart, I will send Him unto you and when He is come, He will reprove the world of sin, and of righteousness,  and of judgement, of sin, because they believe not on Me, of righteousness because I go to My Father, and ye see Me no more; of judgement because the prince of this world is judged. 

I have yet many things to say unto you but ye cannot bear them now. Howbeit, when He -- the Spirit of truth is come, He will guide you into all truth for He shall not speak of Himself but whatsoever He shall hear, [that] shall He speak and He will show you things to come. He shall glorify Me, for He shall receive of mine, and shall show [it] unto you." (John 16:7-14)

As the scriptures clearly explain, Jesus needed to first ascend before the Holy Ghost -- the Comforter which was and now is could come and guide us into all truth. He -- Jesus THROUGH the Holy Ghost -- will show us things to come. "Which things also we speak, not in the words which man's wisdom teacheth, but which the Holy Ghost teacheth; comparing spiritual things with spiritual." (I Corinthians 2:13)

Other scriptures to consider:

"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)

"Giving thanks unto the Father, which hath made us meet to be partakers of the inheritance of the saints in light: who hath delivered us from the power of darkness, and hath translated us into the kingdom of His dear Son, in whom we have redemption through His blood, even the forgiveness of sins -- who is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn of every creature. For by Him were all things created, that are in heaven, and that are in earth, visible and invisible, whether they be thrones, or dominions, or principalities, or powers: all things were created by Him, and for Him and He is before all things, and by Him all things consist. And He is the Head of the body, the church: who is 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 fullness dwell -- and, having made peace through the blood of His cross, by Him to reconcile all things unto Himself; by Him, I say, whether they be things in earth, or things in heaven." (Colossians 1:12-20)

"Now He which stablisheth us with you in Christ and hath anointed us -- God who hath also sealed us and given the earnest of the Spirit in our hearts." (II Corinthians 1:20-24)

"But ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you: and ye shall be witnesses unto me both in Jerusalem, and in all Judea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth." (Acts 1:8)

"Now when the apostles which were at Jerusalem heard that Samaria had received the Word of God, they sent unto them Peter and John who, when they were come down, prayed for them that they might receive the Holy Ghost -- for as yet He was fallen upon none of them, only they were baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus. Then laid they hands on them, and they received the Holy Ghost." (Acts 8:14-17)

There are more scriptures to study but let this suffice for now. Jesus -- the Author and Finisher of our faith. The Alpha and Omega, the first and the last, the beginning and end. In the beginning, God. (Genesis 1:1) In the beginning was the Word and the Word was with God and the Word was God" that became flesh and dwelt among us. (John 1:1-18)

"This scripture must needs have been fulfilled which the Holy Ghost by the mouth of David spake concerning Judas, which was guide to them that took Jesus." (Acts 1:16) God is not the author of confusion. Scripture does not contradict.

In fact, "if ye continue in the faith grounded and settled, and be not moved away from the hope of the gospel, which ye have heard, and which was preached to every creature which is under heaven; whereof I Paul am made a minister, who now rejoice in my sufferings for you, and fill up that which is behind of the afflictions of Christ in my flesh for His body's sake, which is the church ...

Whereof I am made a minister, according to the dispensation of God which is given to me for you, to fulfill the Word of God; even the mystery which hath been hid from ages and from generations, but now is made manifest to His saints --- to whom God would make known what is the riches of the glory of this mystery among the Gentiles -- which is Christ in you, the hope of glory, whom we preach, warning every man, and teaching every man in all wisdom; that we may present every man perfect in Christ Jesus." (Colossians 1:23-28)

Don't miss out on this opportunity to receive Jesus' gift of salvation. Stand in the offering plate.

Jesus Said, "All That Came Before Me Are Thieves and Robbers But the Sheep Did Not Hear Them" - Part 1025

Jesus said, "Verily, verily, I say unto you -- he that enters not by the door into the sheepfold, but climbs up some other way, the same is a thief and a robber ... but He that enters in by the door is the Shepherd of the sheep. To Him the porter opens; and the sheep hear His voice: and He calls His own sheep by name, and leads them out." (John 10:1-3)

Interestingly, we live in a world that willingly subscribes to every other message rather than submit completely to the Shepherd of the sheep who shed His precious blood on a cross for you and I. This situation has not changed over time. Even in Jesus' time, we saw examples of people knowing the gospel truth and yet, refusing to believe in God their Saviour. Further, in hearing many of Jesus' parables, the Pharisees understood not what things they were which He spake unto them. (John 10:6)

For example, in John 9, Jesus is speaking to the Pharisees. He has just performed a miracle -- healing a man of his blindness from birth -- but the Pharisees clearly did not want to believe the miracle that Jesus performed. Instead, these Pharisees questioned the man, hoping to find an alternative reason for his healed sigh. And, in reviling the man they said, "Thou art His disciple but we are Moses' disciples. We know that God spake unto Moses; [as] for this [fellow] we know not from whence He is." (John 9:28-29)

The healed man answered and said unto them, "Why herein is a marvelous thing, that ye know not from whence He is, and yet He hath opened mine eyes. Now we know that God hears not sinners, but if any man be a worshipper of God and does His will, him He hears." (John 9:31) Then the man asks, "Since the world began, was it not heard that any man opened the eyes of one that was born blind? If this man were not of God, He could do nothing." (John 9:30-33)

Good questions but the Pharisees would not change their stance. In fact, they mocked the man, saying, "Thou was altogether born in sins and dost thou teach us?" (John 9:34) Almost like a "how dare you think that you are smarter than us!" So what did they do? They cast the man out. But Jesus the Christ heard that they had cast him out, and when He found him, He asked the man, "Dost thou believe on the Son of God?" 

The man answered and said, "Who is He, Lord, that I might believe on Him?" Jesus said, "Thou hast both seen Him and it is He that talketh with thee ... For judgement I come into this world, that they which see might not see and that they which see might be made blind." (John 9:37-39)

Some of the Pharisees seeing the healed man worshipping Jesus heard the exchange (and the man's admission that he believes) and asked Jesus, "Are we blind also?" Note Jesus' response -- "If ye were blind ye should have no sin, but now ye say, "We see; therefore your sin remaineth." (John 9:41)

In other words, those who know Jesus as their Saviour also worship Him in everything that they do, including water baptism. This is why Jesus continued sharing His analogy about the Shepherd and the sheep -- so that we too would know the truth that sets us free. You see, Jesus is the Good Shepherd who goes before the sheep, and the sheep follow Him, for they know His voice.  "And a stranger will they not follow, but will flee from him: for they know not the voice of strangers." (John 10:1-5)

This parable spake Jesus unto them: but they understood not what things they were which He spake unto them. Then said Jesus unto them again, "Verily, verily, I say unto you, I am the door of the sheep. All that ever came before Me are thieves and robbers: but the sheep did not hear them. I am the door: by Me if any man enter in, he shall be saved, and shall go in and out, and find pasture.

The thief cometh not, but for to steal, and to kill, and to destroy: I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly. I am the Good Shepherd: the Good Shepherd giveth His life for the sheep. But he that is an hireling, and not the Shepherd, whose own the sheep are not, seeth the wolf coming leaveth the sheep, and fleeth: and the wolf catcheth them, and scattereth the sheep. The hireling fleeth, because he is an hireling, and careth not for the sheep." (John 10:6-11)

Again, Jesus repeated the message so that these would be without excuse. He said, "I am the Good Shepherd, and know My sheep, and am known of Mine. As the Father knoweth Me, even so know I the Father: and I lay down My life for the sheep. And other sheep I have, which are not of this fold: them also I must bring, and they shall hear My voice; and there shall be One fold, and One Shepherd.

Therefore doth My Father love Me, because I lay down My life, that I might take it again. No man taketh it from Me, but I lay it down of Myself. I have power to lay it down, and I have power to take it again. This commandment have I received of My Father." (John 10:6-18)

Just as it would be today, a division emerged again among the Jews for these sayings, and many of them said, "He hath a devil and is mad; why hear ye Him?" Others said, "These are not the words of Him that hath a devil. Can a devil open the eyes of the blind? (John 10:19) This rift between those whose inner desire was to worship Jesus -- like the blind man who had his sight restored, and the Pharisees (the religious of the day) who wanted to retain their authority and power over an.

Not satisfied, the Jews came round about Him and said unto Jesus, "How long dost Thou make us to doubt? If Thou be the Christ, tell us plainly." (John 10:24)

Jesus answered them, "I told you, and ye believed not: the works that I do in my Father's name, they bear witness of Me, but ye believe not, because ye are not of My sheep, as I said unto you -- "My sheep hear My voice, and I know them, and they follow Me -- and I give unto them eternal life; and they shall never perish, neither shall any man pluck them out of My hand."

My Father, which gave them Me, is greater than all; and no man is able to pluck them out of my Father's hand. I and my Father are one." (John 10:25-31)

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

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

Jesus answered them, "Is it not written in your law, I SAID, YE ARE GODS? If He called them gods, unto whom the Word of God came, and the scripture cannot be broken; Say ye of Him, whom the Father hath sanctified, and sent into the world, "Thou blasphemest" because I said, I am the Son of God?" (John 10:32-36; Psalm 82:6; I Peter 1:25)

And then Jesus said, "If I do not the works of My Father, believe Me not. But if I do, though ye believe not Me, believe the works: that ye may know, and believe, that the Father is in Me, and I in Him." (John 10:37-38)

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

In the same manner, we need to make a decision for Jesus. Ask Jesus into your heart today. "Repent and be baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ for the remission of sins and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost." (Acts 2:37-42) Read His Word for your guidance and direction. Stand in the offering plate with our Lord God and Saviour Jesus the Christ. 

He Was In the World and the World Made by Him but the World Knew Him Not - Part 1024

"Be it known unto you all, and to all the people of Israel, that by the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, whom ye crucified, whom God raised from the dead, even by Him doth this man stand here before you whole. This is the stone which was set at nought of you builders, which is become the Head of the corner. Neither is there salvation in any other: for there is none other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved." (Acts 4:10-12)

As it is written, the very stone which the builders rejected has become the Head cornerstone. For other foundations can no man lay other than that foundation which is laid already -- the foundation being none other than the LORD JESUS the Christ. The foundation upon which this building -- the body of Christ / His Church -- is being constructed being the Word of God.

"The stone [which] the builders refused is become the head [stone] of the corner. This is the Lord's doing; it is marvelous in our eyes. This is the day [which] the Lord hath made. We will rejoice and be glad in it." (Psalms 118:22-24)

"Therefore, thus saith the Lord God, "Behold I lay in Zion for a foundation a stone, a tried stone, a precious corner [stone], a sure foundation. He that believeth shall not make haste." (Isaiah 28:16)

Jesus saith unto them, "Did ye never read in the scriptures -- This stone which the builders rejected, the same is become the Head of the corner. This is the Lord's doing, and in it is marvelous in our eyes?" Therefore, say I unto you -- the Kingdom of God shall be taken from you and given to a nation bringing forth the fruits thereof, and whosoever shall fall on this stone shall be broken but on whomsoever is shall fall, it will grind him to power." (Matthew 21:42-46)

As an aside, note that the chief priests and Pharisees perceived that Jesus was speaking of them. Pricked in their hearts? Yes, which explains why they sought to lay hands on Him but did not at that time because they feared the multitude.

In the book of Acts, we learn that "until the day in which He was taken up, after that He through the Holy Ghost had given commandments unto the Apostles which He had chosen -- to whom also He Himself alive after His passion by many infallible proofs, being seen of them forty days and speaking of the things pertaining to the Kingdom of God, and being assembled together with them,
commanded them that they should not depart from Jerusalem but wait for the promise of the Father, which [saith He] "Ye have heard of Me. For John truly baptized with water, but ye shall be baptized with the Holy Ghost not many days hence." (Acts 1:1-5)

This is why Jesus, now spoke THROUGH the Holy Ghost unto the Apostles and prophets chosen of God to be His witnesses to the uttermost parts of the earth. But I digress.

Often, we speak of this glorious temple which even today remains under construction. The temple to which we refer is God’s building. The building that God designed and God furnishes. God Himself being the mastermind - the Creator! Indeed, God does all things according to the purpose of His own will. This glorious temple is the spiritual body of JESUS the Christ.

As it is written -- you and I are the body of Christ, chosen of God being jointly and fitly framed together as a body while constantly increasing in number -- until the fullness of the measure of the stature of Christ is attained!

Inside this glorious temple, there are no spots or wrinkles. Further, within this temple the Spirit of God is praised by the redeemed members who have been filled (Spirit baptism) with the same Spirit that was in the man JESUS. The promised Holy Ghost being received by them after repenting and being baptized into the name of JESUS for the remission of all their sins - likewise then did JESUS breathe upon them His spiritual breath. (Acts 2:37-42)

The other good news is that this spiritual temple requires no man made cleansing. For what God has cleansed, let no man call common or unclean. As it is written, the blood of JESUS the Christ - God’s only begotten Son hidden in the bosom of the Father - cleanses us from all sin. This is the Almighty God in whom we trust.

Unfortunately, many church institutions have abandoned the original God-given faith and scriptural teachings that were once delivered to believers. Some might even suggest that we have forsaken the fountain of life! Instead, the church fathers have rejected the capping stone in 300/400 AD, even as the Jews had previously before that. In the case of the latter, Jesus spoke a parable about a certain nobleman who went into a far country to receive for Himself a kingdom, and to return. But his citizens hated him, and sent a message after him, saying, "We will not have this [man] to reign over us." (Luke 19:14)

The nobleman that Jesus spoke of here was Almighty God Himself who became flesh and dwelt among us so that we might accept His gift of salvation. (John 1:1-18) But as we know God's chosen people rejected Him. "He was in the world and the world was made by Him and the world knew Him not. He came unto His own and His own received Him not." (John 1:10-11)

This is why -- you and I -- the Gentiles were grafted in. Even today, there are Jews who still do not understand that they crucified the Lord of glory. This misunderstanding even though God provided ample opportunity to the Jews to receive God’s forgiveness. But rather than repent, the scriptures state that the Jews hardened their heart, becoming uncircumcised in their hearts in the days and centuries that followed.

What was the issue? Well, the church fathers of AD 300/400 started their own religion in Rome. This particular religion continued until the time of the reformation where the rays of the light of the glorious gospel of God as seen in the face of JESUS the Christ arose in lives as a morning star.
Reviewing historical insights into the Reformation period, we learn that John Wycliffe had written the Bible in the English tongue - in a period that was to become similar to the dawning of a better day.

Yes, Heaven and earth may pass away but the Word of the Lord abides forever. As such Lord, you are the author of this faith. Receive your engrafted Word with meekness. Stand in the offering plate.

He Came Unto His Own and His Own Received Him Not - Part 1023

And Jesus answered him, "The first of all the commandments [is] -- "Hear, O Israel; The Lord our God is one Lord." (Mark 12:29) This same proclamation was made in the new testament. Therein Jesus, in speaking the commandments said, "Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy strength, and with all thy mind; and thy neighbour as thyself." (Luke 10:27; Matthew 22:37-40; Mark 12:30-34)

Too often, however, the constructs of the world (and similarly, man-made religion) wants to add to the simplicity of the gospel of Jesus Christ. There must be more that is needed for salvation rather than accepting His precious gift -- the gospel truth -- that the same God who created us in the beginning, and knew us in our mother's womb was willing to shed His precious blood on the cross for our sins. They don't want you to know that in accepting Jesus by faith, and believing in His name, that we have been set free from all that would bind us.

But there is so much more to the gospel of Jesus. Even though at this time of celebration of the birth of Christ into this world (Emmanuel which being interpreted is God with us -- Matthew 1:23), the established religions want us to believe that God is in fact three persons, and that Jesus was only one part of this trinity (or tri-une God). This religious dogma widely proclaimed -- even though most manger scenes portray the shepherds and wise men of the day worshiping Jesus the Christ.

How misguided these are (and us too) when we take another man's interpretation of the scriptures rather than reading His Word for ourselves. Studying to show ourselves approved, as a workman does. (II Timothy 2:15) Continuing steadfast in the apostles doctrine. (Acts 2:42) Learning that there is only "One Lord, one faith, one baptism." (Ephesians 4:5)

"Is Christ divided?" (I Corinthians 1:13) No, and yet the religious community has been successful in removing His Word from our hearts, by dividing the promised Messiah -- the mystery hid in the bosom of the Father from the very beginning -- the greatest love story ever shared -- and replacing His love with another gospel that was not proclaimed by God Himself.

But Jesus said that when the Comforter would come, He would lead us into all knowledge and truth. And in order for the Comforter to come, Jesus had to ascend. (John 20:1-31; John 21:1-25; Acts 1:1-8) When we study the Acts of the apostles, we see the mystery of the Godhead unfold. The infallible proofs. "Until the day in which He was taken up, after that He through the Holy Ghost, had given commandments unto the apostles." (Acts 1:2)

He -- through the Holy Ghost. Not He and the Holy Ghost. "Oh foolish Galatians, who hath bewitched you?" (Galatians 3:1) He gave Himself for our sins that He might deliver us from this present evil world. (Galatians 1:3-4) Not another but Almighty God Himself.

"I am Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the ending," saith the Lord, "which is, and which was, and which is to come, the Almighty." (Revelation 1:8) "But to us there is but one God the Father, of whom are all things, and we in Him and one Lord Jesus Christ, by whom are all things, and we by Him." (I Corinthians 8:6)

The apostles knew the gospel, and so did the first 3,000 believers baptized into the body of Christ. We are His bride and as such we need to align our teachings with the entirety of the proclaimed gospel of Jesus Christ.

"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 about three thousand souls.

And they continued steadfastly in the apostles' doctrine and fellowship, and in breaking of bread, and in prayers. And fear came upon every soul: and many wonders and signs were done by the apostles. And all that believed were together, and had all things common, and sold their possessions and goods, and parted them to all [men] as every man had need. And they continually daily with one accord int eh temple, and breaking bread from house to house, did eat their meat with gladness and singleness of heart, praising God and having favour with all the people. And the Lord added to the church daily such as should be saved." (Acts 2:38-47)

The scriptures state: "All things were made by Him and without Him was not any thing made that was made. (John 1:3)

"He was in the world, and the world was made by Him, and the world knew Him not. He came unto His own, and His own received Him not. But as many as received Him, to them gave He power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on His name: which were born, not of blood, nor of the will of the flesh, nor of the will of man, but of God. And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us, (and we beheld His glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father,) full of grace and truth. John bare witness of Him, and cried, saying, "This was He of whom I spake, He that cometh after me is preferred before me: for He was before me. And of His fullness have all we received, and grace for grace. 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" (John 1:10-18)

It's time to come out from among those who preach another gospel that is not contained in His Word.
"For ye are all the children of God by faith in Christ Jesus, for as many of you as have been baptized into Christ have put on Christ. There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither bond nor free, there is neither male nor female, for ye are all one in Christ Jesus -- and [if ye] be Christ's, then are ye Abraham's seed, and heirs according to the promise." (Galatians 3:26-29) 

Stand in His offering plate.

And Without Controversy, Great Is the Mystery of Godliness - Part 1022

"In the name of God." This phrase is fairly common in the public square but do we ever stop and ask ourselves -- what is God's name? Who is this God who commands the universe, pouring His blessings on both the good and evil? Who is this God that willingly was made man and dwelt among us so that we could receive His gift of salvation? (John 1:1-18) Moreover, what is God's name?

Why do I ask? Because God is a "descriptive" title, never being a name. Similarly, in this context, if one is utilizing a descriptive title, then why not expose to others whom it is that you are calling God?

Further, we have all heard that God is love. And God is light -- the shining Light of the world. We also recognize that God is not a respecter of persons. God has not two laws, one for the rich and another for the poor. He has given us two commandments -- the first being to love Him (and seek Him by faith in His Word) with all our heart, soul, mind and strength, and then to serve as a flow through by loving one another.

But in order to know God, we need to read the scriptures. We need to study His Word so that He can reveal Himself to us. Therein, we will learn that God has a name. In fact, as a result of knowing His name and calling upon His name we shall know the truth that will set us free. So does that mean citing the phrase "in the name of God" or "Father God" -- as the religious circles state? Of course not. But note also that God is not the author of confusion.

So what is in a name? What do names represent? You as a individual would never let anyone misrepresent or discredit your name. Why? Because your name is who you are. In fact, to some extent, it dictates who you are. And in fact, your name will outlive you because even your offspring will bear your name. The same principle applies to God. He has a name.

Likewise, when you know God’s name, then you would not by any means desire to discredit or misrepresent His name. Note too that neither Jehovah or Yahweh are God’s name in this current dispensation of grace. Why not? Because God never revealed either as being His name in the new testament.

But there is a name, as the scriptures repeatedly point out, which is above every other name in heaven and on earth. And the one who bears that name is the One God who is before all things. He is also the One God who made all things. This One God who is Spirit has revealed HIMSELF to all of mankind as a Son. He did not reveal Himself as another person in the Godhead but as God Himself dwelling among us.

"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)

God who is Spirit, inhabited a man’s body, endeavouring to reveal Himself to His people. "I am Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the ending, saith the Lord, which is, and which was, and which is to come, the Almighty." (Revelation 1:8)

" I am Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the end, the first and the last. Blessed are they that do his commandments, that they may have right to the tree of life, and may enter in through the gates into the city." (Revelation 22:13-14)

“Thus saith the LORD the King of Israel, and His redeemer the LORD of hosts: I AM THE FIRST, AND I AM THE LAST; AND BESIDE ME THERE IS NO GOD.” (Isaiah 44:6)

“Hearken unto me, O Jacob and Israel, my called; I am he; I AM THE FIRST, I ALSO AM THE LAST.” (Isaiah 48:12)
Indeed, this same Almighty God who gave Himself for us bears the name of JESUS! The only name under heaven whereby we must be saved. The only name in which we can be water baptized -- Acts 2:38. Whatsoever ye do in word or deed, do all in the name of Jesus.

How do we know this? God reveals Himself through the Word. He who knew no sin became sin for us. So much so that even the angels worship Him. So did the wise men worship Him. Yes, Almighty God's name is Jesus. The Jehovah of the old covenant being Jesus in the new testament. The greatest love story ever shared with mankind,

So next time you hear someone say, "in the name of God," you can whisper the precious name Jesus. One Lord, one faith, one baptism. Stand in the offering plate.

The Holy Ghost Hath Made You Overseers to Feed the Church Of God Which He Purchased With His Own Blood - Part 1021

"But though we, or an angel from heaven, preach any other gospel unto you than that which we have preached unto you, let him be accursed. As we said before, so say I now again, if any man preach any other gospel unto you than that ye have received, let him be accursed." (Galatians 1:8-9)

In other words, the gospel of Jesus Christ -- as written in His Word -- is the only true foundation. His Word cannot be superseded by fine-sounding teachings from the pulpit, nor should we permit others (even angels) to interpret the scriptures for us. "Be not carried about with divers and strange doctrines, for [it is] a good thing that the heart be established with grace; not with meats, which have not profited them that have been occupied therein." (Hebrews 13:9)

Indeed, we are all made ministers of the gospel when we believe in Jesus by faith. Through this simple act of believing, He is able to forgive us of our sin (through the blood that He shed on the cross). When we seek Jesus in spirit and truth, He reveals Himself to us through His Word. This is why the apostles said, "But we will give ourselves continually to prayer AND to the ministry of the Word." (Acts 6:4)

How do we become ministers? Certainly not by appointment or accreditation through a man-made religious system, but rather, by seeking Jesus with all our heart, soul, mind and strength. He chose us before the foundation of the world was formed, even knowing us in our mother's womb. It is this same God who reached out in love, becoming as one of us, so that we might truly know Him -- and the extent of His love and mercy. (John 1:1-18)

(As an aside, note also that the order of these commandments -- to love our Lord God and Saviour first, and then to love one another -- has not changed from the old covenant to the new testament.)

Getting back to my original point, Paul the apostle was chosen by the Lord JESUS to bear His name among the nations. We know this from his testimony within the scriptures -- whereby Saul, on the road to Damascus, was stopped in his tracks by the Lord Jesus Himself. (Acts 9)
We also know from the scriptures that Paul was chosen to be His apostle to the Gentiles. Paul declared that the gospel that he preached did not unfold from man’s wisdom. Neither, as Paul states, "was I taught by man." In other words, Paul asserted that he did not receive the gospel of man. Rather he received the gospel from God by means of  revelation. In short, Paul  was asserting that the Word of God was coming to him not from him. 

All this to affirm Paul's statement to one and all. That is, "if any one think of himself as a prophet or spiritual then they had better acknowledge that the things that I write are the commandments of God." (I Corinthians 14:37)

At the time, Paul was well aware how he had in his younger life been entrapped by the religion of his day. In fact, Paul was so engulfed that he - like many today - think/thought they were doing God a great service by killing anyone with an alternative mindset other than theirs. Obviously, they had never heard or read the scripture that states men  (and women) must be allowed to work out his/her destiny in fear and trembling. "Wherefore, my beloved, as ye have always obeyed, not as in my presence only, but now much more in my absence, work out your own salvation with fear and trembling." (Philippians 2:12)

Instead, Paul (formerly known as Saul) became a radical terrorist killer, throwing believers of the JESUS persuasion into prison. At the time, he really believed in his heart that he was doing what God wanted. Who would ever have thought that God would say to a disciple that Paul was a chosen vessel to bear His name JESUS to the Gentiles?

Yes, God has a chosen people -- a royal generation -- a people that God foreknew before the very foundation of the earth. "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." (I Peter 2:9) Similarly, in the good news gospel, it is written that God chose the foolish things of the world to confound the worldly wisdom of men -- to preach the "simplicity" of the good news gospel of His kingdom.

"But God hath chosen the foolish things of the world to confound the wise; and God hath chosen the weak things of the world to confound the things which are mighty ..." (I Corinthians 1:27)

Indeed, when we believe in Jesus by faith, and seek Him with all of our being, we become His chosen ministers. "Thy kingdom come, Thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven." (Matthew 6:10)

He who knew no sin became sin for us. It is He who purchased and redeemed back to Himself  the sacrifice of His own body. JESUS being the child conceived of the Holy Ghost -- one other than ‘God Himself as a Son. God with us, as the Bible states. (Matthew 1:21) God with us who willingly laid down His sinless life as payment in full for His people that He foreknew at no cost whatsoever to them. For the gift of God is eternal life. God’s prescription is that you and I believe upon His name -- JESUS -- because there is no redemptive salvation under Heaven in any other name.

Note that we are not talking about religious institutions here. As an institution, religious traditions cannot save man. Why?  Because as the scriptures repeatedly state in Revelation, their candlestick has been removed. Therefore, redemptive salvation is not through a church or by you adhering to long-standing institutional traditions and doctrines --  which unfortunately, in many instances are the same teachings invented by the church fathers of 300 / 400 AD. What is important is that the Holy Ghost was poured out upon believers on the day of Pentecost -- as recorded in Acts 2. Here, the people  were told to repent each and every one of them and be baptized into the name of JESUS! (Acts 2:37-42)

"Take heed therefore unto yourselves, and to all the flock, over the which the Holy Ghost hath made you overseers, to feed the church of God, which He hath purchased with His own blood." (Acts 20:28)

Stand in the offering plate.

I, [even] I, [am] the LORD; and Beside Me [there is] No Saviour.- Part 1020

"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 any thing made that was made. 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 1:1-5)

What does this scripture state? In the beginning, God. (Genesis 1:1; John 1:1) In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God and the Word WAS God. Not another being (or person, or part of the trinity as today's religious culture would have one believe) but the Word WAS God. How do we know this? Because the very next verse states: "The same was in the beginning with God." It does not say that "He" or "another person" was in the beginning with God. The Bible states that He -- the Word -- His Word was in the beginning with God, and WAS God.

And if this is not sufficient evidence that Jesus is God in the flesh, John writes: "ALL things were made by Him and without Him was not any thing made that was made." (John 1:3)

Moreover, John the Baptist was sent to bear witness of the prophesied Christ. Matthew wrote: "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)

The promised Messiah foretold by the prophet Isaiah: "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)

"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)

"For in Him dwelleth all the fulness of the Godhead bodily." (Colossians 2:9)

Jesus saith unto [Philip], "Have I been so long time with you, and yet hast thou not known me, Philip? He that hath seen Me hath seen the Father; and how sayest thou [then], "Shew us the Father?" Believest thou not that I am in the Father, and the Father in Me? The words that I speak unto you I speak not of Myself: but the Father that dwelleth in Me, He doeth the works. Believe Me that I [am] in the Father, and the Father in Me: or else believe Me for the very works' sake." (John 14:9-11)

This is why Thomas recognized who Jesus was when he said, "My Lord and my God." (John 20:28)

This is why Jesus said, "I and My Father are one." (John 10:30-33)
"To wit, that God was in Christ, reconciling the world unto Himself, not imputing their trespasses unto them; and hath committed unto us the Word of reconciliation." (II Corinthians 5:19)

"To the only wise God our Saviour, [be] glory and majesty, dominion and power, both now and ever. Amen" (Jude 1:25) "Looking for that blessed hope, and the glorious appearing of the great God and our Saviour Jesus Christ." (Titus 2:13) The Alpha and Omega, the first and the last., the beginning and the end. "For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which IS Christ the Lord." (Luke 2:11)

"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 other words, "hereby perceive we the love [of God], because He laid down His life for us: and we ought to lay down [our] lives for the brethren." (I John 3:16)

John continues, stating: "That was the true Light, which lighteth every man that cometh into the world. He was in the world, and the world was made by Him, and the world knew Him not. He came unto His own, and His own received Him not. But as many as received Him, to them gave He power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on His name: which were born, not of blood, nor of the will of the flesh, nor of the will of man, but of God. And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us, (and we beheld His glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father,) full of grace and truth." (John 1:9-14)

In other words, God became flesh. The same Almighty God that created the world, and everything within, became flesh and dwelt among us -- so that we might inherit eternal life. He did so because He loved us beyond measure. He did so because He who knew no sin wanted to make us His chosen people, a royal generation -- His bride. (I Peter 2:9)

But what do we do? We allow the "religious culture" and the "false teachers" of this day to hijack the gospel of Jesus Christ and His kingdom to "another gospel" -- therefore, butchering the greatest love story ever told to man.

This same scripture that John was willing to give up his life for is later revised without any accountability from the authors of the NIV version -- which states: "In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was with God in the beginning. The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us. We have seen his glory, the glory of the one and only Son, who came from the Father, full of grace and truth." (John 1:1-3)

It's no wonder Paul wrote: "In whom the god of this world hath blinded the minds of them which believe not, lest the light of the glorious gospel of Christ, who IS the image of God, should shine unto them." (II Corinthians 4:4)

But we do not have to count ourselves among the blinded. Rather, remain true to the gospel of Jesus the Christ today. Don't look to man for your salvation, but diligently read His Word and let Jesus lead and guide you into all truth. Understand the doctrine of Christ. (II John 1:9; Hebrews 1:6) For our Lord God and Saviour Jesus willingly shed His blood on the cross for you and I. He never fails.

"Looking for that blessed hope, and the glorious appearing of the great God and our Saviour Jesus Christ." (Titus 2:13) Stand in the offering plate.