According to the Biblical scriptures, the Church is His body. We are the body of Christ. We are His bones. We are His flesh. We are the temple in which He is pleased to dwell. We are the people called by His name (the Jesus people). The early believers continued steadfastly in the teachings of the Spirit of God, which they in turn delivered to us. As the scriptures state, "For another foundation can no man lay other than that which has been laid." This is the apostles' foundation with Jesus Himself being the chief cornerstone.
Further, Jesus said this is My church and the gates (teachings of hell) shall not prevail against it. The holy Spirit of Jesus Himself will lead and guide believers into all truth. As it is written, believers will all be taught of God. Christ alone is the Head of His Church (body). In essence then, this church is not a two headed church. This foundation verifies yet again that there is only one mediator between God and man. That is, the man Jesus the Christ who is the only begotten Son of the Spirit of God. It is in this body that all the fullness of the Godhead dwells bodily. This makes God alone the Father and Mother of the man Jesus.
Was Mary the mother of God? Of course not. Mary was a surrogate mother of the Son of God. Does Mary intercede on our behalf? Again, no. Mary said that her spirit rejoiced in "God her Saviour." Can a believer be more blessed than Mary? Indeed, yes. As the scriptures state, more blessed are they that hear the Word of God and do it. Blessed much more than the womb that bore me! Who is Jesus' mother and father then? They that hear the Word of God and do it. Is anyone infallible? No. All have sinned and come short of the glory of God. There is none righteous, No not one.
But the good news is that whosoever sins that you remit, they are remitted. Whosoever sins that you retain, they are retained. When Jesus bore our sins on a tree, He allowed the people -- sinners -- to call upon Jesus so that they would receive forgiveness and remission of sin. But the apostolic message did not end there. In this context, other questions are asked. Am I really baptized if I am baptized in the name of the father, son, and holy spirit?
As outlined in earlier posts, these are relationship titles with no applicable name attached. By being baptized in the titles and not the name of Jesus, one is substituting man’s rendition of Matthew chapter 28:19 without including the practical applicability. How did the apostles baptize? How were all new believers baptized in the Bible? Note here that the apostles did follow Jesus' instructions when they baptized believers in His name -- in the precious name of the Lord Jesus!
It is the same when, during communion, countless congregations of people are told that the wafer or bread and the wine are miraculously transformed into the blood and body of Christ. Would I be committing an unforgivable sin if I participate? We would if we did not acknowledge that Jesus sacrificed Himself once and for all so that we could be saved. As such, there is no longer a need for churches to offer a repeat performance. Jesus made the sacrifice. And it was Jesus Himself that said on the cross -- It is finished. The sacrificial death of Jesus is present tense.
Moreover, there is only one high priest. That is Jesus, who is a high priest forever after the order of Melchisedec. Is the new testament a continuation of the old covenant? No. The new testament is a testament between one party. This one relationship is between God who is Spirit and between God Himself as a Son. Grace testament. Whereas the old covenant was between two parties -- a covenant of life and death -- the new testament is about grace! This is why the scriptures ask new believers to search the scriptures so that they will know and understand the plan of salvation.
What were the first believers told to do? The first 3000 people who believed in Jesus repented and were baptized into the name of Jesus for the forgiveness of sin, and as a consequence, received the gift of the Holy Ghost. For further details, please read through Acts chapter two.
Ask our Lord God and Saviour to open your eyes for understanding. Stand in the offering plate.
All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness
Saturday, November 14, 2015
Friday, November 13, 2015
And If Ye Be Christ's, Then Are Ye Abraham's Seed, and Heirs According to the Promise. - Part 1240
"Brethren, I speak after the manner of men. Though it be but a man's covenant, yet [if it be] confirmed, no man dis-annuls, or adds thereto. 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 3:15-18)
Paul has already asked the question, "O foolish Galatians, who hath bewitched you, that ye should not obey the truth, whose eyes Jesus Christ hath been evidently set forth, crucified among you? This only would I learn," writes apostle Paul, "of you. Received ye the Spirit by the works of the law, or by the hearing of faith? Are ye so foolish? Having begun in the Spirit, are ye now made perfect by the flesh? Have ye suffered so many things in vain? If it be yet in vain.
He therefore that ministers to you in the Spirit, and works miracles among you, does he it by the works of the law, or by the hearing of faith? Evan as Abraham believed God, and it was accounted to him for righteousness. Know ye therefore that they which are of faith, the same are the children of Abraham?
And the scripture, foreseeing that God would justify the heathen through faith, preached before the gospel unto Abraham, saying, "In thee shall all nations be blessed." (Galatians 3:1-8)
"So then they which be of faith are blessed with faithful Abraham. For as many as are of the works of the Law are under the curse; for it is written, "cursed is every one that continues not in all things which are written in the book of the Law to do them." (Galatians 3:9-10; Deuteronomy 27:26)
"But that no man is justified by the Law in the sight of God, it is evident; for the just shall live by faith. And the Law is not of faith; but, the man that does them shall live in them. Christ hath redeemed us from the curse of the Law, being made a curse for us; for it is written, "Cursed is every one that hangs on a tree:" that the blessing of Abraham might come on the Gentiles through Jesus Christ, that we might receive the promise of the Spirit through faith ..." (Galatians 3:9-14)
In other words, if the inheritance be of the Law, is is no more of promise, but God gave it to Abraham by promise. Wherefore then serves the Law? It was added because of transgressions till the seed should come to whom the promise was made, and it was ordained by angels in the hand of a mediator. Now a mediator is not a mediator of one, but God is one.
Is the Law then against the promises of God? God forbid, for if there had been a Law given which could have given life, verily righteousness should have been by the Law. But the scripture hath concluded, all under sin, that the promise by faith of Jesus Christ might be given to them that believe. But before faith came, we were kept under the law, shut up unto the faith which should afterwards be revealed. Wherefore the law was our schoolmaster to bring us unto Christ that we might be justified by faith.
But after that faith is come,, we are no longer under a schoolmaster, for ye are all the children of God by faith in Christ Jesus -- for as many of you as have been baptized in to Christ have put on Christ." (Galatians 3:15-29)
In other words, Isaac was not the promised SEED. Yet, the Lord did say to Abraham that in him (natural seed) Abraham and in His SEED (CHRIST) would all the nations of the earth be blessed.
Neither was JACOB the promised SEED. The progression of the promised SEED traveled along in Abraham's offspring and yet none of Abraham's offspring were to be the final embodiment of the promised SEED.
All along, the prophecies from old intended to reveal that Christ alone is the SEED of promise. This is why there is salvation in no other. JESUS being not the seed of man but rather, JESUS the VERY SEED of the Holy Ghost. The same SEED brought forth JESUS the Christ, who is none other than the Son of God or, as we learn in the new testament scripture, God Himself as a son.
When JESUS came forth from the womb of His surrogate mother, did not the angelic host sing? Did not the wise men offer gifts to Him? And did not the aged Simeon in the temple upon seeing the child JESUS declare, "Lord, let now your servant depart in peace, for my eyes have seen your salvation?"
Further, did not the angel declare that the child be named JESUS? His title to be Emmanuel meaning "God with us." (Matthew 1:21-23)
JESUS is the same Almighty God who created all things, manifesting Himself in the flesh and entering this fallen world as a man with one intent. That objective being to seek and to save those which would otherwise be lost.
A SAVIOUR WHO IS CHRIST THE LORD!
This is why Peter (standing with the eleven) declared this same Jesus whom ye have crucified to be BOTH Lord and Christ. (Acts 2:36) In the following verses, His Word instructs new believers on what they must do to be saved. (Acts 2:36-42) Read these verses with gladness. Receive His promises into your heart. Be water baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus the Christ and receive the gift of the Holy Ghost. Study the scriptures to show thyself approved unto God, as a workman would do, seeking the kingdom of God and His righteousness. Stand in the offering plate.
Paul has already asked the question, "O foolish Galatians, who hath bewitched you, that ye should not obey the truth, whose eyes Jesus Christ hath been evidently set forth, crucified among you? This only would I learn," writes apostle Paul, "of you. Received ye the Spirit by the works of the law, or by the hearing of faith? Are ye so foolish? Having begun in the Spirit, are ye now made perfect by the flesh? Have ye suffered so many things in vain? If it be yet in vain.
He therefore that ministers to you in the Spirit, and works miracles among you, does he it by the works of the law, or by the hearing of faith? Evan as Abraham believed God, and it was accounted to him for righteousness. Know ye therefore that they which are of faith, the same are the children of Abraham?
And the scripture, foreseeing that God would justify the heathen through faith, preached before the gospel unto Abraham, saying, "In thee shall all nations be blessed." (Galatians 3:1-8)
"So then they which be of faith are blessed with faithful Abraham. For as many as are of the works of the Law are under the curse; for it is written, "cursed is every one that continues not in all things which are written in the book of the Law to do them." (Galatians 3:9-10; Deuteronomy 27:26)
"But that no man is justified by the Law in the sight of God, it is evident; for the just shall live by faith. And the Law is not of faith; but, the man that does them shall live in them. Christ hath redeemed us from the curse of the Law, being made a curse for us; for it is written, "Cursed is every one that hangs on a tree:" that the blessing of Abraham might come on the Gentiles through Jesus Christ, that we might receive the promise of the Spirit through faith ..." (Galatians 3:9-14)
In other words, if the inheritance be of the Law, is is no more of promise, but God gave it to Abraham by promise. Wherefore then serves the Law? It was added because of transgressions till the seed should come to whom the promise was made, and it was ordained by angels in the hand of a mediator. Now a mediator is not a mediator of one, but God is one.
Is the Law then against the promises of God? God forbid, for if there had been a Law given which could have given life, verily righteousness should have been by the Law. But the scripture hath concluded, all under sin, that the promise by faith of Jesus Christ might be given to them that believe. But before faith came, we were kept under the law, shut up unto the faith which should afterwards be revealed. Wherefore the law was our schoolmaster to bring us unto Christ that we might be justified by faith.
But after that faith is come,, we are no longer under a schoolmaster, for ye are all the children of God by faith in Christ Jesus -- for as many of you as have been baptized in to Christ have put on Christ." (Galatians 3:15-29)
In other words, Isaac was not the promised SEED. Yet, the Lord did say to Abraham that in him (natural seed) Abraham and in His SEED (CHRIST) would all the nations of the earth be blessed.
Neither was JACOB the promised SEED. The progression of the promised SEED traveled along in Abraham's offspring and yet none of Abraham's offspring were to be the final embodiment of the promised SEED.
All along, the prophecies from old intended to reveal that Christ alone is the SEED of promise. This is why there is salvation in no other. JESUS being not the seed of man but rather, JESUS the VERY SEED of the Holy Ghost. The same SEED brought forth JESUS the Christ, who is none other than the Son of God or, as we learn in the new testament scripture, God Himself as a son.
When JESUS came forth from the womb of His surrogate mother, did not the angelic host sing? Did not the wise men offer gifts to Him? And did not the aged Simeon in the temple upon seeing the child JESUS declare, "Lord, let now your servant depart in peace, for my eyes have seen your salvation?"
Further, did not the angel declare that the child be named JESUS? His title to be Emmanuel meaning "God with us." (Matthew 1:21-23)
JESUS is the same Almighty God who created all things, manifesting Himself in the flesh and entering this fallen world as a man with one intent. That objective being to seek and to save those which would otherwise be lost.
A SAVIOUR WHO IS CHRIST THE LORD!
This is why Peter (standing with the eleven) declared this same Jesus whom ye have crucified to be BOTH Lord and Christ. (Acts 2:36) In the following verses, His Word instructs new believers on what they must do to be saved. (Acts 2:36-42) Read these verses with gladness. Receive His promises into your heart. Be water baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus the Christ and receive the gift of the Holy Ghost. Study the scriptures to show thyself approved unto God, as a workman would do, seeking the kingdom of God and His righteousness. Stand in the offering plate.
Have We Not All One Father? Hath Not One God Created Us? - Part 1239
"For in Him we live, and move, and have our being; as certain also of your own poets have said. "For we are also His offspring" ... for as much then as we are the offspring of God, we ought not to think that the Godhead is like unto gold, or silver, or stone, graven by art and man's device. And the times of this ignorance God winked at; but now commands all men everywhere to repent." (Acts 17:28-29)
Why repent? Because "He hath appointed a day, in the which, He will judge the world by that man whom he hath ordained, whereof He hath given assurance unto all [men] in that He hath raised Him up from the dead." And when they heard of the resurrection of the dead, some mocked and others said, "We will hear thee again on this matter." (Acts 17:31-32)
Today, there are those within the modern day religious culture who still mock believers in Jesus by faith who cleave to the truth that Jesus was indeed Almighty God manifest in the flesh. (I Timothy 3:16; Isaiah 9:6; Matthew 1:21-23) That at the name of Jesus, every knee will bow and confess that He is Lord. (Philippians 2:10-11; Romans 14:11) Just like Peter (standing with the eleven said) just before the first 3,000 souls were baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ, that is, Jesus is BOTH Lord and Christ. (Acts 2:36-38)
Indeed, Jesus Himself declared, "I and My Father are One." (John 10:30)
Jesus Himself said, "If ye had known Me, ye should have known My Father also, and from henceforth ye know Him and have seen Him." (John 14:56-7)
"Have we not all one Father? Hath not One God created us?" (Malachi 2:10)
"What then shall I do when God rises up? And when He visits, what shall I answer Him?" (Job 31:14)
"In the beginning was the Word and the Word was with God and the Word was God. The same was in the beginning with God. All things were made by Him and without Him was not anything made that was made. In Him was life, and the life was the light of men, and the light shines in the darkness and the darkness comprehended it not." (John 1:1-5)
"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, to them that believe on His name." (John 1:10-11)
"One Lord, One Faith, One Baptism. One God and Father of all, who is above all, and through all, and in you all." (Ephesians 4:5-6)
And what is His name in this current dispensation of grace? Jesus!
"Neither is there salvation in any other, for there is none other name under heaven given among men whereby we must be saved." (Acts 4:12)
"And ye shall call His name JESUS for He shall save His people from their sins ..." (Matthew 1:21-23)
This is why we "joy in God through our Lord Jesus Christ, by whom we have now received the atonement, wherefore, as by one man sin entered the world, and death by sin, and so death passed upon all men, for that all have sinned (for until the law sin was in the world but sin is not imputed when there is no law. Nevertheless, death reigned from Adam to Moses, even over them that had not sinned after the similitude of Adam's transgression, who is the figure of Him that was to come ... but not as the offence, so also is the free gift. For if through the offence of one many be dead, much more the grace of God, and the gift by grace, which is by one man Jesus Christ hath abounded unto many. And not as it was by one that sinned, so is the gift, for the judgement was by one to condemnation, but the free gift is of many offences unto justification. For if by one man's offence death reigned by one, much more they which receive abundance of grace and of the gift of righteousness shall reign in life by one -- Jesus Christ.)" (Romans 5:11-21)
"And the Word was made flesh and dwelt among us -- God Himself veiled in flesh so that we could behold His glory, the glory of the only begotten of the Father, full of grace and truth." (John 1:14)
And, as the psalmist wrote of the day still to come -- "If we have forgotten the name of our God, or stretched out our hands to a strange god, shall not God search this out? For He knows the secrets of the heart. Yea, for Thy sake are we killed all the day long, we are counted as sheep for the slaughter." (Psalms 44:20-22)
Thankfully, in this dispensation of God's grace and mercy, we have the record of His Word that clarifies all misunderstandings if we would only seek Him through His Word. Study the scriptures to show ourselves approved, as doth a workman. (II Timothy 2:15)
After the Holy Ghost came upon Mary and the power of the Highest overshadowed her, that holy thing which was to be born was in her womb, what did Mary say? "My soul doth magnify the Lord, and my spirit hath rejoiced in God my Saviour." (Luke 1:27-56)
If Jesus was not God manifest in the flesh, when did God become our Saviour?
"Rooted and built up in Him, and stablished in the faith, as ye have been taught, abounding therein with thanksgiving. Beware lest any man spoil you through philosophy and vain deceit, after the tradition of men, after the rudiments of the world, and not after Christ. FOR IN HIM DWELLETH ALL THE FULLNESS OF THE GODHEAD BODILY. And ye are complete in Him, which is the Head of all principality and power, in whom also ye are circumcised with the circumcision made without hands, in putting off the body of the sins of the flesh by the circumcision of Christ ..." (Colossians 2:7-9)
Why repent? Because "He hath appointed a day, in the which, He will judge the world by that man whom he hath ordained, whereof He hath given assurance unto all [men] in that He hath raised Him up from the dead." And when they heard of the resurrection of the dead, some mocked and others said, "We will hear thee again on this matter." (Acts 17:31-32)
Today, there are those within the modern day religious culture who still mock believers in Jesus by faith who cleave to the truth that Jesus was indeed Almighty God manifest in the flesh. (I Timothy 3:16; Isaiah 9:6; Matthew 1:21-23) That at the name of Jesus, every knee will bow and confess that He is Lord. (Philippians 2:10-11; Romans 14:11) Just like Peter (standing with the eleven said) just before the first 3,000 souls were baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ, that is, Jesus is BOTH Lord and Christ. (Acts 2:36-38)
Indeed, Jesus Himself declared, "I and My Father are One." (John 10:30)
Jesus Himself said, "If ye had known Me, ye should have known My Father also, and from henceforth ye know Him and have seen Him." (John 14:56-7)
"Have we not all one Father? Hath not One God created us?" (Malachi 2:10)
"What then shall I do when God rises up? And when He visits, what shall I answer Him?" (Job 31:14)
"In the beginning was the Word and the Word was with God and the Word was God. The same was in the beginning with God. All things were made by Him and without Him was not anything made that was made. In Him was life, and the life was the light of men, and the light shines in the darkness and the darkness comprehended it not." (John 1:1-5)
"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, to them that believe on His name." (John 1:10-11)
"One Lord, One Faith, One Baptism. One God and Father of all, who is above all, and through all, and in you all." (Ephesians 4:5-6)
And what is His name in this current dispensation of grace? Jesus!
"Neither is there salvation in any other, for there is none other name under heaven given among men whereby we must be saved." (Acts 4:12)
"And ye shall call His name JESUS for He shall save His people from their sins ..." (Matthew 1:21-23)
This is why we "joy in God through our Lord Jesus Christ, by whom we have now received the atonement, wherefore, as by one man sin entered the world, and death by sin, and so death passed upon all men, for that all have sinned (for until the law sin was in the world but sin is not imputed when there is no law. Nevertheless, death reigned from Adam to Moses, even over them that had not sinned after the similitude of Adam's transgression, who is the figure of Him that was to come ... but not as the offence, so also is the free gift. For if through the offence of one many be dead, much more the grace of God, and the gift by grace, which is by one man Jesus Christ hath abounded unto many. And not as it was by one that sinned, so is the gift, for the judgement was by one to condemnation, but the free gift is of many offences unto justification. For if by one man's offence death reigned by one, much more they which receive abundance of grace and of the gift of righteousness shall reign in life by one -- Jesus Christ.)" (Romans 5:11-21)
"And the Word was made flesh and dwelt among us -- God Himself veiled in flesh so that we could behold His glory, the glory of the only begotten of the Father, full of grace and truth." (John 1:14)
And, as the psalmist wrote of the day still to come -- "If we have forgotten the name of our God, or stretched out our hands to a strange god, shall not God search this out? For He knows the secrets of the heart. Yea, for Thy sake are we killed all the day long, we are counted as sheep for the slaughter." (Psalms 44:20-22)
Thankfully, in this dispensation of God's grace and mercy, we have the record of His Word that clarifies all misunderstandings if we would only seek Him through His Word. Study the scriptures to show ourselves approved, as doth a workman. (II Timothy 2:15)
After the Holy Ghost came upon Mary and the power of the Highest overshadowed her, that holy thing which was to be born was in her womb, what did Mary say? "My soul doth magnify the Lord, and my spirit hath rejoiced in God my Saviour." (Luke 1:27-56)
If Jesus was not God manifest in the flesh, when did God become our Saviour?
"Rooted and built up in Him, and stablished in the faith, as ye have been taught, abounding therein with thanksgiving. Beware lest any man spoil you through philosophy and vain deceit, after the tradition of men, after the rudiments of the world, and not after Christ. FOR IN HIM DWELLETH ALL THE FULLNESS OF THE GODHEAD BODILY. And ye are complete in Him, which is the Head of all principality and power, in whom also ye are circumcised with the circumcision made without hands, in putting off the body of the sins of the flesh by the circumcision of Christ ..." (Colossians 2:7-9)
This is why we can unequivocally state that there is one God, and in this current dispensation of grace, His name is Jesus.
"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. Howbeit [there is] not in every man that knowledge ..." (I Corinthians 8:6-13)
Jesus continually revealed His true identity to us while on earth.
Jesus said, "Yet a little while is the light with you. Walk while ye have the light, lest darkness come upon you, for he that walks in darkness knows not whither he goes. While ye have light, believe in the light, that ye may be the children of light ... He that believeth on Me believeth not on Me but on Him that sent Me. And He that sees Me sees Him that sent Me. I am come a light unto the world that whosoever believes on Me, should not abide in darkness ..." (John 12:35-50)
Stand in the offering plate.
"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. Howbeit [there is] not in every man that knowledge ..." (I Corinthians 8:6-13)
Jesus continually revealed His true identity to us while on earth.
Jesus said, "Yet a little while is the light with you. Walk while ye have the light, lest darkness come upon you, for he that walks in darkness knows not whither he goes. While ye have light, believe in the light, that ye may be the children of light ... He that believeth on Me believeth not on Me but on Him that sent Me. And He that sees Me sees Him that sent Me. I am come a light unto the world that whosoever believes on Me, should not abide in darkness ..." (John 12:35-50)
Stand in the offering plate.
Wednesday, November 11, 2015
Jesus Said, "If Ye Had Known Me, Ye Should Have Known My Father Also" - Part 1238
Then spake Jesus again unto them, saying, "I am the Light of the world. He that follows Me shall not walk in darkness but shall have the light of life." The Pharisees therefore said unto Him, "Thou bearest record of Thyself. Thy record is not true." Jesus answered and said unto them, "Though I bear record of Myself, yet My record is true, for I know whence I came, and whither I go. Ye judge after the flesh. I judge no man. And yet if I judged -- My judgement is true, for I am not alone, but I and the Father that sent Me. It is also written in your Law, that the testimony of two men is true. I am One that beareth witness of Myself and the Father that sent Me beareth witness of Me."
Then they said unto Him, "Where is Thy Father?" Jesus answered, "Ye neither know Me, nor My Father. If ye had known Me, ye should have known My Father also." (John 8:12-19)
As a consequence, Jesus said again unto them, "I go My way, and ye shall seek Me, and shall die in your sins; whither I go, ye cannot come .... Ye are from beneath; I am from above; ye are of this world; I am not of this world. I said therefore unto you, that ye shall die in your sins; for if ye believe not that I am [He], ye shall die in your sins."
But they did not understand what Jesus was saying to them, when He spoke of the Father. Then Jesus said unto them, "When ye have lifted up the Son of man, then shall ye know that I am [He] and [that] I do nothing of Myself, but as My Father hath taught Me, I speak these things. And He that sent Me is with Me, the Father hath not left Me alone, for I do always those things that please Him."
As He spake these words, many believed on Him. Then Jesus said to the Jews that did believe in Him -- "If ye continue in My Word, then are ye My disciples indeed, and ye shall know the truth and the truth shall make you free." (John 8:1-32)
But they answered and said, "We be Abraham's seed and were never in bondage to any man; how say Thou, "Ye shall be made free?" (John 8:33)
Herein, the Jewish audience is declaring to JESUS that Abraham was their father. At the same time, the Jewish made a point in stating that God was their one Father. JESUS then said to them that He came forth from God and that "neither came I by myself." Indeed, Jesus said, I was sent (conceived by the Holy Ghost) -- God’s only "begotten" Son.
This is the message delivered to us in John 3:16. God sent His only begotten Son into the world so that the world through Him might be saved! In relation to the Jewish, JESUS further stated that if God were their Father then they would hear His Words which He - Jesus - was speaking. And as such, they would understand the message that Jesus brought by God’s grace. The salvation message whereby men and women could be saved.
In the scriptural context, we also recognize that JESUS was about to expose men for who they really were - captives of the devil - that required salvation. For JESUS made the statement that we as humans are of our father the devil and as a consequence partake in lusts which proves that we are in bondage to his deceptive ways Unfortunately, try as we might to escape this bondage, we continue repeating the same sin.
Why? Because we are held in captivity by the devil. Ever since that day that our ancestral father Adam ignored God's instructions and obeyed satan, we were led into sin by satan who was and is a murderer. The father of all lies from the beginning of time. Just like Adam and Eve submitted to his voice in the garden, we are likewise led away into the captivity of a sinful nature. A servant of sin blinded from the truth. (John 8:34)
But thankfully, we are not lost. God made a way of escape. God manifest in the flesh. (I Timothy 3:16) The Word that was with God and was God was made flesh, and dwelt among us. (John 1:1-18)
But when JESUS declared the truth, which the Jewish could not receive, they began to smear JESUS, stating that He had a devil. But JESUS replied, "I have not a devil. I honour my FATHER and yet you dishonour Me." JESUS continued by saying, "I seek not to glorify Myself. I say unto you that if any man keep My sayings, he shall never see death."
Well that was the spark that ignited the debate. The Jews that would not believe asked, "Abraham and the prophets are dead and you are saying that if any man shall keep my sayings he shall never taste of death. Are you greater than Abraham?"
In response, JESUS told them that it is my FATHER that honours me - who you say is your God .. and YET YOU HAVE NOT KNOWN HIM! But I know Him and I keep His sayings. You also say that Abraham is your father? You should note that your natural father Abraham rejoiced when God told him that in his seed would all the nations of the earth be blessed. Jesus said - I am that promised seed. I AM THE CHRIST, the Son of the living God.
"If ye were Abraham's children, ye would do the works of Abraham, but now ye seek to kill Me, a man that hath told you the truth, which I have heard of God, this did not Abraham. Ye do the deeds of your father." Then said they to Jesus, "We be not born of fornication. We have one Father, [even] God." Jesus said unto them, "If God were your Father, ye would love Me, for I proceeded forth and came from God, neither came I Myself but He sent Me. Why do ye not understand My speech? Even because ye cannot hear My Word. Ye are of your father the devil, and the lusts of your father ye will do. He was a murderer from the beginning, and abode not in the truth, because there is no truth in him. When he speaks a lie, he speaks of his own, for he is a liar, and the father of it. And because I tell you the truth, believe Me not. Which of you convinces Me of sin? And if I say the truth, why do ye not believe Me? He that is of God hears God's words; ye therefore hear them not, because you are not of God." (John 8:39-47)
Then Jesus pulls the carpet out from under their feet by saying, "Before Abraham was, I AM." You see Jesus is God with us. He is not another person. The same God who is - I AM. The same God I AM who was in the man JESUS the Christ, endeavouring to redeem and reconcile man to Himself. In other words, JESUS is the grace of God manifested to the world as SON. Whosoever has JESUS - GOD HIMSELF as a SON - that person has the FATHER also. (John 8:53-58)
This is why Jesus later said, "I and My Father are one." (John 10:30)
Jesus said, "I am the resurrection and the life. He that believes in Me, shall never die. Believest thou this?" (John 11:26)
This is the question for this day. Jesus clearly states in His Word who He is for one and all to see. The volume of the book written about Me. "I am the Alpha and Omega, the first and the last, the beginning and the ending." (Revelation 1:8; Revelation 22:13)
"And He was clothed with a vesture dipped in blood, and His name is called the Word of God." (Revelation 19:13)
Let him who has ears to hear, hear. Stand in the offering plate.
Then they said unto Him, "Where is Thy Father?" Jesus answered, "Ye neither know Me, nor My Father. If ye had known Me, ye should have known My Father also." (John 8:12-19)
As a consequence, Jesus said again unto them, "I go My way, and ye shall seek Me, and shall die in your sins; whither I go, ye cannot come .... Ye are from beneath; I am from above; ye are of this world; I am not of this world. I said therefore unto you, that ye shall die in your sins; for if ye believe not that I am [He], ye shall die in your sins."
But they did not understand what Jesus was saying to them, when He spoke of the Father. Then Jesus said unto them, "When ye have lifted up the Son of man, then shall ye know that I am [He] and [that] I do nothing of Myself, but as My Father hath taught Me, I speak these things. And He that sent Me is with Me, the Father hath not left Me alone, for I do always those things that please Him."
As He spake these words, many believed on Him. Then Jesus said to the Jews that did believe in Him -- "If ye continue in My Word, then are ye My disciples indeed, and ye shall know the truth and the truth shall make you free." (John 8:1-32)
But they answered and said, "We be Abraham's seed and were never in bondage to any man; how say Thou, "Ye shall be made free?" (John 8:33)
Herein, the Jewish audience is declaring to JESUS that Abraham was their father. At the same time, the Jewish made a point in stating that God was their one Father. JESUS then said to them that He came forth from God and that "neither came I by myself." Indeed, Jesus said, I was sent (conceived by the Holy Ghost) -- God’s only "begotten" Son.
This is the message delivered to us in John 3:16. God sent His only begotten Son into the world so that the world through Him might be saved! In relation to the Jewish, JESUS further stated that if God were their Father then they would hear His Words which He - Jesus - was speaking. And as such, they would understand the message that Jesus brought by God’s grace. The salvation message whereby men and women could be saved.
In the scriptural context, we also recognize that JESUS was about to expose men for who they really were - captives of the devil - that required salvation. For JESUS made the statement that we as humans are of our father the devil and as a consequence partake in lusts which proves that we are in bondage to his deceptive ways Unfortunately, try as we might to escape this bondage, we continue repeating the same sin.
Why? Because we are held in captivity by the devil. Ever since that day that our ancestral father Adam ignored God's instructions and obeyed satan, we were led into sin by satan who was and is a murderer. The father of all lies from the beginning of time. Just like Adam and Eve submitted to his voice in the garden, we are likewise led away into the captivity of a sinful nature. A servant of sin blinded from the truth. (John 8:34)
But thankfully, we are not lost. God made a way of escape. God manifest in the flesh. (I Timothy 3:16) The Word that was with God and was God was made flesh, and dwelt among us. (John 1:1-18)
But when JESUS declared the truth, which the Jewish could not receive, they began to smear JESUS, stating that He had a devil. But JESUS replied, "I have not a devil. I honour my FATHER and yet you dishonour Me." JESUS continued by saying, "I seek not to glorify Myself. I say unto you that if any man keep My sayings, he shall never see death."
Well that was the spark that ignited the debate. The Jews that would not believe asked, "Abraham and the prophets are dead and you are saying that if any man shall keep my sayings he shall never taste of death. Are you greater than Abraham?"
In response, JESUS told them that it is my FATHER that honours me - who you say is your God .. and YET YOU HAVE NOT KNOWN HIM! But I know Him and I keep His sayings. You also say that Abraham is your father? You should note that your natural father Abraham rejoiced when God told him that in his seed would all the nations of the earth be blessed. Jesus said - I am that promised seed. I AM THE CHRIST, the Son of the living God.
"If ye were Abraham's children, ye would do the works of Abraham, but now ye seek to kill Me, a man that hath told you the truth, which I have heard of God, this did not Abraham. Ye do the deeds of your father." Then said they to Jesus, "We be not born of fornication. We have one Father, [even] God." Jesus said unto them, "If God were your Father, ye would love Me, for I proceeded forth and came from God, neither came I Myself but He sent Me. Why do ye not understand My speech? Even because ye cannot hear My Word. Ye are of your father the devil, and the lusts of your father ye will do. He was a murderer from the beginning, and abode not in the truth, because there is no truth in him. When he speaks a lie, he speaks of his own, for he is a liar, and the father of it. And because I tell you the truth, believe Me not. Which of you convinces Me of sin? And if I say the truth, why do ye not believe Me? He that is of God hears God's words; ye therefore hear them not, because you are not of God." (John 8:39-47)
Then Jesus pulls the carpet out from under their feet by saying, "Before Abraham was, I AM." You see Jesus is God with us. He is not another person. The same God who is - I AM. The same God I AM who was in the man JESUS the Christ, endeavouring to redeem and reconcile man to Himself. In other words, JESUS is the grace of God manifested to the world as SON. Whosoever has JESUS - GOD HIMSELF as a SON - that person has the FATHER also. (John 8:53-58)
This is why Jesus later said, "I and My Father are one." (John 10:30)
Jesus said, "I am the resurrection and the life. He that believes in Me, shall never die. Believest thou this?" (John 11:26)
This is the question for this day. Jesus clearly states in His Word who He is for one and all to see. The volume of the book written about Me. "I am the Alpha and Omega, the first and the last, the beginning and the ending." (Revelation 1:8; Revelation 22:13)
"And He was clothed with a vesture dipped in blood, and His name is called the Word of God." (Revelation 19:13)
Let him who has ears to hear, hear. Stand in the offering plate.
Tuesday, November 10, 2015
Faith is the Substance of Things Hoped For, The Evidence of Things Not Seen - Part 1237
"Neither is there salvation in any other, for there is none other name under heaven given among men whereby we must be saved." (Acts 4:12)
The name of Jesus, who is both Lord and Christ. (Acts 2:36) God manifest in the flesh. (I Timothy 3:16; John 1:1-18; Isaiah 9:6) "Blessed be the Lord God of Israel; for He hath visited and redeemed His people ... to give knowledge of salvation unto His people by the remission of their sins, through the tender mercy of our God; whereby the dayspring from on high hath visited us." (Luke 1:68-79)
Paul, an apostle of Jesus Christ by the commandment of God our Saviour and Lord Jesus Christ [which is] our hope wrote these words unto Timothy, and by extension to you and I.
"Grace, mercy and peace from God our Father and Jesus Christ our Lord. As I besought thee to abide still at Ephesus, when I went into Macedonia that they might charge some that they teach no other doctrine, neither give heed to fables, and endless genealogies, which minister questions, rather than godly edifying which is in faith.
Now interestingly, the end of the commandment is charity out of a pure heart and of a good conscience and of faith unfeigned; from which some having swerved have turned aside unto vain jangling; desiring to be teachers of the Law, understanding neither what they say, nor whereof they affirm, but we know that the Law is good, if a man use it lawfully," (I Timothy 1:1-8)
But what exactly does that mean -- the Law is good IF a man use it lawfully? I ask this question because there are those in the modern day religious culture who use the Law (and the related ten commandments) as the standard for one's faith journey, without thoroughly "understanding" the grace and mercy or our Lord, that came about as a consequence of He Himself who knew no sin tearing the veil from top to bottom.
"Jesus, when He had cried again with a loud voice, yielded up the ghost. And, behold, the veil of the temple was rent in twain from the top to the bottom; and the earth did quake, and the rocks rent ..." (Matthew 27:50-51)
The name of Jesus, who is both Lord and Christ. (Acts 2:36) God manifest in the flesh. (I Timothy 3:16; John 1:1-18; Isaiah 9:6) "Blessed be the Lord God of Israel; for He hath visited and redeemed His people ... to give knowledge of salvation unto His people by the remission of their sins, through the tender mercy of our God; whereby the dayspring from on high hath visited us." (Luke 1:68-79)
Paul, an apostle of Jesus Christ by the commandment of God our Saviour and Lord Jesus Christ [which is] our hope wrote these words unto Timothy, and by extension to you and I.
"Grace, mercy and peace from God our Father and Jesus Christ our Lord. As I besought thee to abide still at Ephesus, when I went into Macedonia that they might charge some that they teach no other doctrine, neither give heed to fables, and endless genealogies, which minister questions, rather than godly edifying which is in faith.
Now interestingly, the end of the commandment is charity out of a pure heart and of a good conscience and of faith unfeigned; from which some having swerved have turned aside unto vain jangling; desiring to be teachers of the Law, understanding neither what they say, nor whereof they affirm, but we know that the Law is good, if a man use it lawfully," (I Timothy 1:1-8)
But what exactly does that mean -- the Law is good IF a man use it lawfully? I ask this question because there are those in the modern day religious culture who use the Law (and the related ten commandments) as the standard for one's faith journey, without thoroughly "understanding" the grace and mercy or our Lord, that came about as a consequence of He Himself who knew no sin tearing the veil from top to bottom.
"Jesus, when He had cried again with a loud voice, yielded up the ghost. And, behold, the veil of the temple was rent in twain from the top to the bottom; and the earth did quake, and the rocks rent ..." (Matthew 27:50-51)
Remember that lo, when the angel of the Lord came upon Joseph and Mary in the manger and the glory of the Lord shone round about them, and they were sore afraid, what did the angel say? "Fear not; for behold, I bring you tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people, for unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour which is Christ the Lord ... and suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God, and saying, "Glory to God in the highest, and on earth, peace, declared peace, good will toward men." (Luke 2:10-14)
What does apostle Paul write?
"Knowing this, that the Law is not made for a righteous man, but for the lawless and disobedient, for the ungodly and for the sinners, for unholy and profane, for murderers of fathers and murderers of mothers, for man slayers, for whore mongers, for them that defile themselves with mankind, for men stealers, for liars, for perjured persons and if there be any other thing that is contrary to sound doctrine -- according to the glorious gospel of the blessed God, which was committed to my trust." (I Timothy 1:9-11)
(Comparable translations of the ungodly and sinners include fornicators, sodomites, kidnappers and perjurers for clarification.)
Nevertheless, what was apostle Paul saying here? Remember, in the worldly, apostle Paul in his previous life (prior to giving his heart and life to Jesus on the road to Damascus) murdered Christians. In fact, as knowledgeable as he was in the precepts of the old covenant of law, he still diligently sought out anyone who believed in Jesus by faith, so that he could have them put to death, believing that in so doing, he was actually doing God a favour.
Given his own injurious history that contravened any evidence of goodness and charity, what glorious gospel is Paul now referring? He writes:
"And I thank Christ Jesus our Lord, who hath enabled me, for that He counted me faithful, putting me into the ministry; who was before a blasphemer, and a persecutor, and injurious, but I obtained mercy, because I did it ignorantly in unbelief, and the grace of our Lord was exceeding abundant with faith and love which is in Christ Jesus. This is a faithful saying, and worthy of all acceptation, that Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners, of whom I am chief.
Howbeit, for this cause I obtained mercy, that in me first Jesus Christ might show forth all long-suffering, for a pattern to them which should hereafter believe on Him to life everlasting -- now unto the King eternal, immortal, invisible, the only wise God be honour and glory forever and ever, amen." (I Timothy 1:12-17)
This is why we as believers in Jesus by faith are to follow after righteousness, godliness, faith, love, patience and meekness, fighting the good fight of faith, laying hold on eternal life, where unto we have been called, and hast professed a good profession before many witnesses. Not because of anything we can do in and of ourselves but because we willingly consent in our hearts to the wholesome words of our Lord Jesus Christ, and to the doctrine which is according to godliness. (I Timothy 6:3)
Rather than being destitute of the truth, we choose to seek the truth and be sanctified through Thy Word. Holding fast the form of sound words, which Paul has wrote, in faith and love which is in Christ Jesus -- "that good thing which was committed unto thee by the Holy Ghost which dwells in us." (II Timothy 1:13-14)
So the message to Timothy, and likewise us, "I give thee charge in the sight of God, who quickens all things, and before Christ Jesus who before Pontius Pilate witnessed a good confession; that thou keep this commandment without spot, unrebukeable, until the appearing of our Lord Jesus Christ, which in His times He shall show who is the blessed and only Potentate, the King of kings and Lord of lords ... who only hath immortality dwelling in the light, which no man can approach unto whom no man hath seen, nor can see; to whom be honour and power everlasting, amen." (I Timothy 6:13-16)
One Lord, One Faith, One Baptism. One God and Father of all, who is above all and through all, and in you all. (Ephesians 4:5-6) His name (in this current dispensation of grace) is Jesus!
Stand in the offering plate.
What does apostle Paul write?
"Knowing this, that the Law is not made for a righteous man, but for the lawless and disobedient, for the ungodly and for the sinners, for unholy and profane, for murderers of fathers and murderers of mothers, for man slayers, for whore mongers, for them that defile themselves with mankind, for men stealers, for liars, for perjured persons and if there be any other thing that is contrary to sound doctrine -- according to the glorious gospel of the blessed God, which was committed to my trust." (I Timothy 1:9-11)
(Comparable translations of the ungodly and sinners include fornicators, sodomites, kidnappers and perjurers for clarification.)
Nevertheless, what was apostle Paul saying here? Remember, in the worldly, apostle Paul in his previous life (prior to giving his heart and life to Jesus on the road to Damascus) murdered Christians. In fact, as knowledgeable as he was in the precepts of the old covenant of law, he still diligently sought out anyone who believed in Jesus by faith, so that he could have them put to death, believing that in so doing, he was actually doing God a favour.
Given his own injurious history that contravened any evidence of goodness and charity, what glorious gospel is Paul now referring? He writes:
"And I thank Christ Jesus our Lord, who hath enabled me, for that He counted me faithful, putting me into the ministry; who was before a blasphemer, and a persecutor, and injurious, but I obtained mercy, because I did it ignorantly in unbelief, and the grace of our Lord was exceeding abundant with faith and love which is in Christ Jesus. This is a faithful saying, and worthy of all acceptation, that Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners, of whom I am chief.
Howbeit, for this cause I obtained mercy, that in me first Jesus Christ might show forth all long-suffering, for a pattern to them which should hereafter believe on Him to life everlasting -- now unto the King eternal, immortal, invisible, the only wise God be honour and glory forever and ever, amen." (I Timothy 1:12-17)
This is why we as believers in Jesus by faith are to follow after righteousness, godliness, faith, love, patience and meekness, fighting the good fight of faith, laying hold on eternal life, where unto we have been called, and hast professed a good profession before many witnesses. Not because of anything we can do in and of ourselves but because we willingly consent in our hearts to the wholesome words of our Lord Jesus Christ, and to the doctrine which is according to godliness. (I Timothy 6:3)
Rather than being destitute of the truth, we choose to seek the truth and be sanctified through Thy Word. Holding fast the form of sound words, which Paul has wrote, in faith and love which is in Christ Jesus -- "that good thing which was committed unto thee by the Holy Ghost which dwells in us." (II Timothy 1:13-14)
So the message to Timothy, and likewise us, "I give thee charge in the sight of God, who quickens all things, and before Christ Jesus who before Pontius Pilate witnessed a good confession; that thou keep this commandment without spot, unrebukeable, until the appearing of our Lord Jesus Christ, which in His times He shall show who is the blessed and only Potentate, the King of kings and Lord of lords ... who only hath immortality dwelling in the light, which no man can approach unto whom no man hath seen, nor can see; to whom be honour and power everlasting, amen." (I Timothy 6:13-16)
One Lord, One Faith, One Baptism. One God and Father of all, who is above all and through all, and in you all. (Ephesians 4:5-6) His name (in this current dispensation of grace) is Jesus!
Stand in the offering plate.
Saturday, November 7, 2015
A Good Man Out of the Good Treasure of His Heart Brings Forth Fruit Which Is Good - Part 1236
Jesus said, "Ye hypocrites, well did Esaias prophesy of you, saying, "This people draws nigh unto Me with their mouth, and honours Me with their lips; but their heart is far from Me. But in vain they do worship Me, teaching for doctrines the commandments of men." (Mark 7:6-7) "And He called the multitude, and said unto them, "Hear, and understand. Not that which goes into the mouth defiles a man; but that which comes out of the mouth, this defile a man."
Then came His disciples, and said unto Him, "Know Thou that the Pharisees were offended, after they heard this saying?" But [Jesus] answered and said, "Every plant, which My heavenly Father hath not planted, shall be rooted up. Let them alone: they be blind leaders of the blind. And if the blind lead the blind, both shall fall into the ditch ..." (Matthew 15:7-14)
In Matthew 23, Jesus is speaking to the multitudes and to His disciples, saying, "The scribes and the Pharisees sit in Moses' seat; all therefore whatsoever they bid you observe, that observe and do, but do not ye after their works, for they say, and do not. For they bind heavy burdens and grievous to be borne, and lay them on men's shoulders; but they themselves will not move them with one of their fingers, but all their works they do for to be seen of men: they make broad their phylacteries, and enlarge the borders of their garments, and love the uppermost rooms at feasts, and the chief seats in the synagogues. And greetings in the markets, and to be called of men, "Rabbi, Rabbi."
But be not ye called Rabbi, for one is your Master, even Christ, and all ye are brethren. And call no man father upon the earth, for one is your Father in heaven. Neither be ye called masters, for one is your Master, even Christ. But he that is greatest among you shall be your servant. And whosoever shall exalt himself shall be abased, and he that shall humble himself shall be exalted." (Matthew 23:2-12)
Think about this for a moment. Jesus said, "I have chosen and ordained you." (John 15:16) The King of kings and Lord of lords, Alpha and Omega, the first and the last, the beginning and the ending, our Lord God and Saviour who is both Lord and Christ, has chosen us and ordained us to abide in Him. (Acts 2:36)
Not to be a member in good standing within a man-made church hierarchical structure, or whereby one elevates or appoints themselves to a position within a five-fold, or ten-fold ministry -- for example, as "self appointed" or "man ordained" apostles, evangelists, prophets, pastors, teachers, miracles, gifts of healings, helps, governments, diversities of tongues. (Ephesians 4:11; I Corinthians 12:28)
But as believers in Jesus by faith who are now "equals" within the body of Christ, with Jesus being the Head of His Church. His bride. Not teaching the commandments of men, but the good news gospel of the Kingdom. Observers and doers of the truth -- and not the whims of men.
Indeed, Jesus instructs us to "abide in Me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit of itself, except it abide in the vine; no more can ye, except ye abide in Me. I am the vine, ye are the branches: He that abides in Me, and I in him, the same brings forth much fruit: for without Me ye can do nothing." (John 15:4-5)
It is no wonder the Pharisees were offended by Jesus' words. Here these wanted to be noticed by the masses around them, and yet all the while here is Jesus telling us to keep our eyes focused on Him. In other words, just because the blind are out there leading the blind, does not mean you have to end up in the ditch along with them. (Matthew 15:14)
Jesus said, "A good man out of the good treasure of his heart brings forth that which is good ,,, for of the abundance of the heart his mouth speaks." (Luke 6:45)
"Whosoever comes to Me and hears My sayings, and does them, I will show you to whom he is like ... " (Luke 6:45-49)
This is why we as believers in Jesus by faith must build our house upon the rock, the one and only Rock which is our Lord God and Saviour Jesus the Christ. The same Word that was with God and was God who was made flesh and dwelt among us. We behold His glory, the glory of the only begotten of the Father, full of grace and truth. (John 1:1-18)
Thus, "let this mind be in you which was also in Christ Jesus, who being in the form of God though it not robbery to be equal with God -- but made Himself of no reputation and took upon Him the form of a servant, and was made in the likeness of men -- and being found in fashion as a man, He humbled Himself and became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross. Wherefore God also hath highly exalted Him and given Him a name which is ABOVE every other name -- that at the name of JESUS every knee should bow in heaven and in earth and under the earth, and every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father." (Philippians 2:5-11)
"God manifest in the flesh." (I Timothy 3:16; John 1:1-18; Isaiah 9:6; Matthew 1:21-23)
"And they shall call His name Jesus for He shall save His people from their sins." (Matthew 1:21-23)
Only Jesus can redeem His people from their sin. Take the time necessary to study your new testament today. Pray and ask the Lord Jesus for His guidance and wisdom in the days ahead. Repent and be baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and you shall receive the Holy Ghost which will lead you into all wisdom and truth. (Acts 2:36-42)
Stand in the offering plate.
Then came His disciples, and said unto Him, "Know Thou that the Pharisees were offended, after they heard this saying?" But [Jesus] answered and said, "Every plant, which My heavenly Father hath not planted, shall be rooted up. Let them alone: they be blind leaders of the blind. And if the blind lead the blind, both shall fall into the ditch ..." (Matthew 15:7-14)
In Matthew 23, Jesus is speaking to the multitudes and to His disciples, saying, "The scribes and the Pharisees sit in Moses' seat; all therefore whatsoever they bid you observe, that observe and do, but do not ye after their works, for they say, and do not. For they bind heavy burdens and grievous to be borne, and lay them on men's shoulders; but they themselves will not move them with one of their fingers, but all their works they do for to be seen of men: they make broad their phylacteries, and enlarge the borders of their garments, and love the uppermost rooms at feasts, and the chief seats in the synagogues. And greetings in the markets, and to be called of men, "Rabbi, Rabbi."
But be not ye called Rabbi, for one is your Master, even Christ, and all ye are brethren. And call no man father upon the earth, for one is your Father in heaven. Neither be ye called masters, for one is your Master, even Christ. But he that is greatest among you shall be your servant. And whosoever shall exalt himself shall be abased, and he that shall humble himself shall be exalted." (Matthew 23:2-12)
Think about this for a moment. Jesus said, "I have chosen and ordained you." (John 15:16) The King of kings and Lord of lords, Alpha and Omega, the first and the last, the beginning and the ending, our Lord God and Saviour who is both Lord and Christ, has chosen us and ordained us to abide in Him. (Acts 2:36)
Not to be a member in good standing within a man-made church hierarchical structure, or whereby one elevates or appoints themselves to a position within a five-fold, or ten-fold ministry -- for example, as "self appointed" or "man ordained" apostles, evangelists, prophets, pastors, teachers, miracles, gifts of healings, helps, governments, diversities of tongues. (Ephesians 4:11; I Corinthians 12:28)
But as believers in Jesus by faith who are now "equals" within the body of Christ, with Jesus being the Head of His Church. His bride. Not teaching the commandments of men, but the good news gospel of the Kingdom. Observers and doers of the truth -- and not the whims of men.
Indeed, Jesus instructs us to "abide in Me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit of itself, except it abide in the vine; no more can ye, except ye abide in Me. I am the vine, ye are the branches: He that abides in Me, and I in him, the same brings forth much fruit: for without Me ye can do nothing." (John 15:4-5)
It is no wonder the Pharisees were offended by Jesus' words. Here these wanted to be noticed by the masses around them, and yet all the while here is Jesus telling us to keep our eyes focused on Him. In other words, just because the blind are out there leading the blind, does not mean you have to end up in the ditch along with them. (Matthew 15:14)
Jesus said, "A good man out of the good treasure of his heart brings forth that which is good ,,, for of the abundance of the heart his mouth speaks." (Luke 6:45)
"Whosoever comes to Me and hears My sayings, and does them, I will show you to whom he is like ... " (Luke 6:45-49)
This is why we as believers in Jesus by faith must build our house upon the rock, the one and only Rock which is our Lord God and Saviour Jesus the Christ. The same Word that was with God and was God who was made flesh and dwelt among us. We behold His glory, the glory of the only begotten of the Father, full of grace and truth. (John 1:1-18)
Thus, "let this mind be in you which was also in Christ Jesus, who being in the form of God though it not robbery to be equal with God -- but made Himself of no reputation and took upon Him the form of a servant, and was made in the likeness of men -- and being found in fashion as a man, He humbled Himself and became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross. Wherefore God also hath highly exalted Him and given Him a name which is ABOVE every other name -- that at the name of JESUS every knee should bow in heaven and in earth and under the earth, and every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father." (Philippians 2:5-11)
"God manifest in the flesh." (I Timothy 3:16; John 1:1-18; Isaiah 9:6; Matthew 1:21-23)
"And they shall call His name Jesus for He shall save His people from their sins." (Matthew 1:21-23)
Only Jesus can redeem His people from their sin. Take the time necessary to study your new testament today. Pray and ask the Lord Jesus for His guidance and wisdom in the days ahead. Repent and be baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and you shall receive the Holy Ghost which will lead you into all wisdom and truth. (Acts 2:36-42)
Stand in the offering plate.
Thursday, November 5, 2015
We Are Complete In This Same Jesus Who Is Both Lord and Christ - Part 1235
Jesus said, "Abide in Me ... and My words abide in you, ye shall ask what ye will, and it shall be done unto you." (John 15:7)
"For in Him dwelleth all the fullness of the Godhead bodily, and ye are complete in Him, which is the Head of all principality and power; in whom also ye are circumcised with the circumcision made without hands, in putting off the body of the sins of the flesh by the circumcision of Christ, buried with Him in baptism, wherein also ye are risen with Him through the faith of the operation of God, who hath raised Him from the dead, and you being dead in your sins and the uncircumcision of your flesh, hath He quickened together with Him, having forgiven you all trespasses; blotting out the handwriting of ordinances that was against us, which was contrary to us, and took it out of the way, nailing it to His cross, and having spoiled principalities and powers, He made a shew of them openly, triumphing over them in it.
Let no man therefore judge you in meat, or in drink, or in respect of an holy day, or of the new moon, or of the sabbath days; which are a shadow of things to come, but the body is of Christ. Let no man beguile you of your reward in a voluntary humility and worshiping of angels, intruding into those things which he hath not seen, vainly puffed up by his fleshly mind, and not holding the Head, from which all the body by joints and bands having nourishment ministered, and knit together, increases with the increase of God.
Wherefore if ye be dead with Christ from the rudiments of the world, why, as though living in the world, are ye subject to ordinances (touch not, taste not, handle not; which all are to perish with the using) after the commandments and doctrines of men? Which things have indeed a shew of wisdom in will worship, and humility, and neglecting of the body, not in any honour to the satisfying of the flesh." (Colossians 2:9-22)
Two very different scriptural passages, and yet, I believe the distinct message in each can be inextricably intertwined. For example, when we abide in Jesus, and His Word abides in us, there is a willingness to press into Jesus with all our heart, soul, mind and strength. There is a readiness to please both in season and without, as a consequence of taking on the name of the Lord Jesus Christ in water baptism. (Acts 2:37-42) And, similarly, there should be a desire to understand this faith journey that we have just embarked on. A disposition to continue steadfastly in the apostles' doctrine without wavering.
This is why we are instructed to study His Word to show ourselves approved unto God, a workman that need not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the Word of truth. (II Timothy 2:15)
"Not as though I had already attained, either were already perfect: but I follow after, if that I may apprehend that for which also I am apprehended of Christ Jesus. Brethren, I count not myself to have apprehended: but [this] one thing [I do], forgetting those things which are behind, and reaching forth unto those things which are before, press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus. Let us therefore, as many as be perfect, be thus minded: and if in any thing ye be otherwise minded, God shall reveal even this unto you. Nevertheless, whereto we have already attained, let us walk by the same rule, let us mind the same thing." (Philippians 3:12-16)
Why? Because grace and peace is multiplied unto you through the knowledge of God and of Jesus our Lord, according as His divine power hath given unto us all things that pertain unto life and godliness, through the knowledge of Him that hath called us to glory and virtue; whereby are given unto us exceeding great and precious promises ; that by these ye might be partakers of the divine nature, having escaped the corruption that is in the world through lust, and beside this, giving all diligence, add to your faith virtue, and to virtue, knowledge: and to knowledge, temperance, and to temperance, patience, and to patience, godliness, and to godliness brotherly kindness, and to brotherly kindness, charity, for if these things be in you, and abound, they make you that ye shall neither be barren nor unfruitful in the knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ. (II Peter 1:2-10)
But he that lacketh these things is blind, and cannot see afar off, and hath forgotten that he was purged from his old sins. This is why we abide in Jesus, so that we give diligence to make our calling and election sure, for if we do these things, we shall never fail.
"For so an entrance shall be ministered unto you abundantly into the everlasting kingdom of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ ..." (II Peter 1:11)
Abide in Jesus today, and download His Word into your heart. Stand in the offering plate.
Wednesday, November 4, 2015
Stand Fast in the Liberty That Is In Christ Jesus - Part 1234
"And that because of false brethren unawares brought in, who came in privily to spy out our liberty which we have in Christ Jesus, that they might bring us into bondage ..." (Galatians 2:4)
"O foolish Galatians, who hath bewitched you, that ye should not obey the truth, before whose eyes Jesus Christ hath been evidently set forth, crucified among you? This only would I learn of you, "Received ye the Spirit by the works of the law, or by the hearing of faith?"
"Are ye so foolish? Having begun in the Spirit, are ye now made perfect by the flesh? Have ye suffered so many things in vain? If it be yet in vain. He therefore that ministereth to you the Spirit, and worketh miracles among you, doeth he it by the works of the law, or by the hearing of faith? Even as Abraham believed God, and it was accounted to him for righteousness. Know ye therefore that they which are of faith, the same are the children of Abraham.
And the scripture, foreseeing that God would justify the heathen through faith, preached before the gospel unto Abraham, saying, "In thee shall all nations be blessed. So then they which be of faith are blessed with faithful Abraham.
For as many as are of the works of the law are under the curse: for it is written, "Cursed is every one that continueth not in all things which are written in the book of the law to do them. But that no man is justified by the law in the sight of God, it is evident: for, The just shall live by faith.
And the law is not of faith: but, the man that doeth them shall live in them. Christ hath redeemed us from the curse of the law, being made a curse for us: for it is written, "Cursed is every one that hangeth on a tree" ... that the blessing of Abraham might come on the Gentiles through Jesus Christ; that we might receive the promise of the Spirit through faith.
Brethren, I speak after the manner of men; Though it be but a man's covenant, yet if it be confirmed, no man disannulleth, or addeth thereto.
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. Wherefore then serveth the law? It was added because of transgressions, till the seed should come to whom the promise was made; and it was ordained by angels in the hand of a mediator.
Now a mediator is not a mediator of one, but God is one.
Is the law then against the promises of God? God forbid: for if there had been a law given which could have given life, verily righteousness should have been by the law. But the scripture hath concluded all under sin, that the promise by faith of Jesus Christ might be given to them that believe.
But before faith came, we were kept under the law, shut up unto the faith which should afterwards be revealed. Wherefore the law was our schoolmaster to bring us unto Christ, that we might be justified by faith. But after that faith is come, we are no longer under a schoolmaster.
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 3:1-29)
"O foolish Galatians, who hath bewitched you, that ye should not obey the truth, before whose eyes Jesus Christ hath been evidently set forth, crucified among you? This only would I learn of you, "Received ye the Spirit by the works of the law, or by the hearing of faith?"
Good question, and like apostle Paul states, one that only we can answer. But just in case there is any doubt, Paul goes on to clarify the truth regarding grace and the law. He writes:
"Are ye so foolish? Having begun in the Spirit, are ye now made perfect by the flesh? Have ye suffered so many things in vain? If it be yet in vain. He therefore that ministereth to you the Spirit, and worketh miracles among you, doeth he it by the works of the law, or by the hearing of faith? Even as Abraham believed God, and it was accounted to him for righteousness. Know ye therefore that they which are of faith, the same are the children of Abraham.
And the scripture, foreseeing that God would justify the heathen through faith, preached before the gospel unto Abraham, saying, "In thee shall all nations be blessed. So then they which be of faith are blessed with faithful Abraham.
For as many as are of the works of the law are under the curse: for it is written, "Cursed is every one that continueth not in all things which are written in the book of the law to do them. But that no man is justified by the law in the sight of God, it is evident: for, The just shall live by faith.
And the law is not of faith: but, the man that doeth them shall live in them. Christ hath redeemed us from the curse of the law, being made a curse for us: for it is written, "Cursed is every one that hangeth on a tree" ... that the blessing of Abraham might come on the Gentiles through Jesus Christ; that we might receive the promise of the Spirit through faith.
Brethren, I speak after the manner of men; Though it be but a man's covenant, yet if it be confirmed, no man disannulleth, or addeth thereto.
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. Wherefore then serveth the law? It was added because of transgressions, till the seed should come to whom the promise was made; and it was ordained by angels in the hand of a mediator.
Now a mediator is not a mediator of one, but God is one.
Is the law then against the promises of God? God forbid: for if there had been a law given which could have given life, verily righteousness should have been by the law. But the scripture hath concluded all under sin, that the promise by faith of Jesus Christ might be given to them that believe.
But before faith came, we were kept under the law, shut up unto the faith which should afterwards be revealed. Wherefore the law was our schoolmaster to bring us unto Christ, that we might be justified by faith. But after that faith is come, we are no longer under a schoolmaster.
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.
As you contemplate on these things, remember to stand in the offering plate.
We Awaken to His Righteousness When We Repent and Are Baptized in the Name of the Lord Jesus - Part 1233
In the law it is written, "With men of other tongues and other lips will I speak unto this people, and yet for all that, will they not hear Me," saith the Lord. (I Corinthians 14:21)
And it came to pass on the second sabbath after the first, that Jesus went through the corn fields; and His disciples plucked the ears of corn, and did eat, rubbing them in their hands. And certain of the Pharisees said unto them, "Why do ye that which is not lawful to do on the sabbath days?" Or, as Matthew wrote, "Behold, Thy disciples do that which is not lawful to do upon the sabbath day." (Luke 6:1-3; Matthew 12:1-2)
And it came to pass on the second sabbath after the first, that Jesus went through the corn fields; and His disciples plucked the ears of corn, and did eat, rubbing them in their hands. And certain of the Pharisees said unto them, "Why do ye that which is not lawful to do on the sabbath days?" Or, as Matthew wrote, "Behold, Thy disciples do that which is not lawful to do upon the sabbath day." (Luke 6:1-3; Matthew 12:1-2)
And Jesus answering them said, "Have ye not read so much as this, what David did, when himself was an hungred, and they which were with him, how he went into [entered into] the house of God, and did take and eat the shewbread, [which was not lawful for him to eat, neither for them which were with him but only for the priests?] and gave also to them that were with him; which it is not lawful to eat but for the priests alone?" (Matthew 12:3-4; Luke 6:4)
"Or have ye not read in the law, how that on the sabbath days the priests in the temple profane the sabbath and are blameless? But I say unto you, that in this place is One greater than the temple. But if ye had known what this means, "I will have mercy and not sacrifice" you would not have condemned the guiltless, for the Son of man is Lord -- even on the sabbath day." (Matthew 12:5-8)
And again from Luke's account -- Jesus said unto them, "That the Son of man is Lord also of the sabbath." (Luke 6:5)
Think about this for a moment. While a minority in terms of holding positions as priests, their collective presence of the Pharisees was perceived to heavily influence the decision making of the Sanhedrin, in comparison to the rival Sadducees. Still, these Pharisees professed to accept the old testament writings as the inspired word of God, although the new testament offers examples whereby the Pharisees gave equal authority to the traditions of men, claiming that these traditions date back to the time of Moses. In this context, note that the Pharisees often garnered the support of the people.
And here they were, quoting the law, in order to refute what Jesus and His disciples were doing on the sabbath day. Herein, the Pharisees were quoting the letter of the law, inherently justifying themselves and their right to condemn those who did not adhere to their interpretation of God's commandments -- what is lawful and what is not lawful -- even while the Lord God Himself stood before them.
But what did the Lord say? "But I say unto you, that in this place is One greater than the temple. But if ye had known what this means, "I will have mercy and not sacrifice" you would not have condemned the guiltless, for the Son of man is Lord -- even on the sabbath day."
Remember, God had declared "peace and good will" to all in this current dispensation of grace, and here he is extending to us mercy as well.. His mercy. His love. Not sacrifices that are burdensome and ultimately lead to condemning the guiltless but freedom and life everlasting in Jesus. This is why we glory in "our Lord Jesus Christ, by whom the world is crucified unto me, and I unto the world ... for in Christ Jesus neither circumcisions availeth any thing, nor uncircumcision, but a new creature, and as many as walk according to this rule, peace be on them, and mercy, and upon the Israel of God." (Galatians 6:14-16)
But I digress. Note what follows next in the scriptures.
"And it came to pass also on another sabbath, that He entered into the synagogue and taught: and there was a man whose right hand was withered. and the scribes and Pharisees watched Him, whether He would heal on the sabbath day; that they might find an accusation against Him. But He knew their thoughts, and said to the man which had the withered hand, "Rise up, and stand forth in the midst." And he arose and stood forth. Then said Jesus unto them, "I will ask you one thing; Is it lawful on the sabbath days to do good, or to do evil? To save life, or to destroy it?" And looking round about upon them all, He said unto the man, "Stretch forth thy hand." And he did so and his hand was restored whole as the other." (Luke 6:6-10)
How did the scribes and Pharisees respond? Certainly, it was not to believe in the miracle that they just saw performed before them. Nor to be grateful for the man who was just healed. Instead, these collectively held a council against Jesus, having a discussion about how they might destroy Him.
"And they were filled with madness; and communed one with another what they might do to Jesus." (Luke 6:11)
"And they were filled with madness; and communed one with another what they might do to Jesus." (Luke 6:11)
Note that we hear these same accusations against Jesus today. And as a consequence, how often are we condemned -- not necessarily because of what we do or say, but rather because Jesus lives within us. Because we -- by faith -- trust in the name of Jesus which saves people from their sins. And, that as a consequence of abiding in Him, our eyes are not of the earthly, but of the heavenly.
Similarly, there are those (like the Pharisees) who want to condemn, judging others as if they themselves were never once a sinner, even when the price for our sin was paid for in full by the blood shed on the cross by our Lord and Saviour Jesus the Christ. And herein is the problem.
Rather than believing we are saved by His grace and mercy, and that not of ourselves, we want to entangle ourselves in the religious cultural bondage that the Pharisees promoted.
To this end, Apostle Paul wrote, "O foolish Galatians, who hath bewitched you, that ye should not obey the truth, before whose eyes Jesus Christ hath been evidently set forth, crucified among you? This only would I learn of you. Received ye the Spirit by the works of the law? Or by the hearing of faith? Are ye so foolish? Having begun in the Spirit, are ye now made perfect by the flesh? Have ye suffered so many things in vain? If it be yet in vain. He therefore that ministereth to you in the Spirit, and worketh miracles among you, does he it by the works of the law, or by the hearing of faith?" (Galatians 3:1-5)
In other words, no man (including the Pharisees) is justified by the law in the sight of God, it being evident for -- "The just shall live by faith, and the law is not of faith; but the man that doeth them shall live in them. Christ hath redeemed us from the curse of the law, being made a curse for us; for it is written, "Cursed is every one that hangeth on a tree" that the blessing of Abraham might come on the Gentiles through Jesus Christ, that we might receive the promise of the Spirit through faith." (Galatians 3:6-14)
The promise was made to Abraham and his 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 dis-annul, 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, Wherefore then serveth the law? It was added because of transgressions, till the seed should come to whom the promise was made, and ordained by the angels in the hand of a mediator. Now a mediator is not a mediator of one, but God is one.
Is the law then against the promises of God? God forbid; for if there had been a law given which could have given life, verily righteousness should have been by the law. But the scripture hath concluded all under sin, that the promise by faith of Jesus Christ might be given to them that believe. But before faith came, we were kept under the law, shut up unto the faith which should afterwards be revealed.
Wherefore the law was our schoolmaster to bring us unto Christ, that we might be justified by faith. But after that faith is come, we are no longer under a schoolmaster. For ye are all the children of God by faith in Christ Jesus. 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 3:16-29)
Sadly, even though the Lord God Himself stood in front of the Pharisees performing miracles and healings and casting out the demons that vexed people, the Pharisees (who claimed to know the old covenant scriptures) would not believe that He was indeed the fulfillment of the promise given to Abraham. Rather, these justified themselves by a law that would never set them free, thus making Christ of no effect to them. (Galatians 5:2)
"For I testify again to every man that is circumcised, that he is a debtor to the whole law. Christ is become of no effect unto you, whosoever of you are justified by the law; ye are fallen from grace.." (Galatians 5:2-4)
Moreover, "as many as desire to make a fair shew in the flesh, they constrain you to be circumcised; only lest they should suffer persecution for the cross of Christ -- for neither they themselves who are circumcised keep the law, but desire to have you circumcised that they may glory in your flesh." (Galatians 6:12-13)
But as Paul wrote, God forbid that we that have taken hold of the truth in Jesus Christ our Lord be entangled once again in the bondage from which we have been rescued, including the entanglements of a modern day religious culture that imposes unrealistic expectations upon the fold.
Rather, let's rejoice through the Spirit -- those who believe in our Lord God and Saviour Jesus the Christ by faith, and are baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ, waiting for the hope of righteousness by faith. This is why we "stand fast therefore in the liberty wherewith Christ hath made us free, and be not entangled again with the yoke of bondage." (Galatians 5:1)
Take hold of His truth today. If you haven't already, ask Jesus to be Lord in your life. Start reading and studying your new testament for therein you will find life in abundance. Stand in the offering plate.
Sunday, November 1, 2015
With His Blood He Has Sanctified You and I - Part 1232
"By the which will we are sanctified through the offering of the body of Jesus Christ once for all." (Hebrews 10:10)
Many of the things Jesus spoke to His disciples was so that His chosen disciples (and by extension you and I) might have peace. Indeed, Jesus said, "In the world ye have tribulation; be of good cheer; I have overcome the world." (John 16:33)
As believers in Jesus the Christ by faith, we become His workmanship. And, thus, we are created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them.
"Wherefore, remember that ye being in time past Gentiles in the flesh, who are called "Uncircumcision" by that which is called the "Circumcision" in the flesh made by hands ... that at that time ye were without Christ, being aliens from the commonwealth of Israel, and strangers from the covenants of promise, having no hope, and without God in the world?" (Ephesians 2:10-11)
In other words, this is where we were. But now -- after receiving Jesus into our life, and repenting of our sin, we are baptized/buried into Christ Jesus. As a consequence, ye who sometimes were afar off are made nigh by the blood of Christ -- for He is our peace, who hath made both one, and hath broken down the middle wall of partition between us, having abolished in His flesh, the enmity, even the law of commandments contained in ordinances; for to make in Himself of twain one new man, so making peace, and that He might reconcile both unto God in one body by the cross, having slain the enmity thereby, and came and preached peace to you which were afar off, and to them that were night -- for through Him we both have access by one Spirit unto the Father." (Ephesians 2:10-18)
Why? Because God, who is rich in mercy, for His great love wherewith He loved us, even when we were dead in sins, hath quickened us together with Christ (by grace are ye saved) and hath raised us up together, and made us sit together in heavenly places in Christ Jesus. (Ephesians 2:4-6)
In other words, when Jesus shed His precious blood on the cross, He took away the first covenant (the law and ten commandments under Moses) so that He could establish the second new testament. (Hebrews 10:16)
Satisfying the former things that included every priest standing daily ministering and offering oftentimes the same sacrifices, which can never take away sins.
But now, because we are sanctified through the blood of Jesus, we understand firsthand that our salvation is totally dependent upon this one man who -- "after He had offered one sacrifice for sins for ever, sat down on the right hand of God, from henceforth expecting [or waiting] till His enemies be made His footstool.
For by one offering He hath perfected for ever them that are sanctified, whereof the Holy Ghost also is a witness to us, for after that He said before "This is the covenant that I will make with them after those days," saith the Lord, "I will put My laws into their hearts, and in their minds will I write them, and their sins and iniquities will I remember no more." (Hebrews 10:10-17)
"For such an high priest became us, who is holy, harmless, undefiled, separate from sinners, and made higher than the heavens, who needeth not daily, as those high priests, to offer up sacrifices, first for his own sins, and then for the people's, for this He did once, when He offered up Himself ... for the law maketh men high priests which have infirmity, but the word of the oath (which was since the law) maketh the Son, who is consecrated for ever more." (Hebrews 7:26-28)
"Now of the things which we have spoken, this is the sum. We have such an high priest who is set on the right hand of the throne of the Majesty in the heavens, a minister of the sanctuary, and of the true tabernacle -- which the Lord pitched and not man. For every high priest is ordained to offer gifts and sacrifices, wherefore, it is of necessity that this man have somewhat also to offer ... for if he were on earth, he should not be a priest, seeing that there are priests that offer gifts according to the law, who serve unto the example and shadow of heavenly things, as Moses was admonished of God when he was about to make all things according to the pattern shewed to thee in the mount .... but now hath He obtained a more excellent ministry, by how much also He is the mediator of a better covenant, which was established upon better promises. For if that first covenant had been faultless, then should no place have been sought for the second ..." (Hebrews 8:1-7)
So why is it that so many are in a hurry to return to the law and the bondage from whence they came? Why are we hearing so many -- who have been set free in the liberty within Christ -- admonishing others for not meeting the law in all aspects of their daily living? Paul put it right when he wrote to the saints in Galatia. That is, "who has bewitched you?"
Through faith we understand that the worlds were framed by the Word of God so that things which are seen were not made of things which do appear. (Hebrews 11:3) Likewise, we understand that because of Jesus, we receive a kingdom which cannot be moved. An unshakable kingdom whereby we can approach the throne of grace, looking unto Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith, who for the joy that was set before Him endured the cross. (Hebrews 12:2)
Jesus, the mediator of a better covenant, which was established upon better promises, for if that first covenant had been faultless, then should no place have been sought for the second. But the first covenant was not without fault. This is why our Lord God decided -- even before the foundation of the world was formed -- that He Himself who knew no sin would have to robe Himself in a sin-prone flesh, if we were ever to obtain salvation.
Almighty God manifest in the flesh. (I Timothy 3:16) The fullness of Jehovah of the old covenant dwelling bodily in the man Christ Jesus. (Colossians 2:9) Emmanuel, meaning God with us. (Matthew 1:21-23) This same Jesus whom ye have crucified is both Lord and Christ. (Acts 2:36)
And that love for you and I is beyond measure. We see this just before Jesus went to the cross. His humanity praying to the Father that dwelt within, He said, "And now come I to Thee, and these things I speak in the world, that they might have My joy fulfilled in themselves. I have given them My Word, and the world hath hated them, because they are not of the world, even as I am not of the world. I pray not that Thou shouldest take them out of the world but that Thou shouldest keep them from evil. They are not of the world, even as I am not of the world. Sanctify them through Thy truth. Thy Word is truth. As Thou hast sent Me into the world, even so have I also sent them into the world. And for their sakes, I sanctify Myself, that they also might be sanctified through the truth." (John 17:13-19)
Sanctified because of the blood shed on a cross for us while we were yet sinners. But now this is no longer the case. Because we responded to the love of Jesus, we have become members in the household of God. The body of Christ which is built upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Jesus Christ Himself being the chief corner stone, in whom all the building fit framed together groweth unto an holy temple in the Lord, in whom ye also are builded together for an habitation of God through the Spirit." (Ephesians 2:19-22)
On that note, let's move unto perfection by pressing into our Lord God and Saviour Jesus the Christ.
"But after that the kindness and love of God our Saviour toward man appeared, not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to His mercy, He saved us, by the washing of regeneration and renewing of the Holy Ghost which He shed on us abundantly through Jesus Christ our Saviour -- that being justified by His grace, we should be made heirs according to the hope of eternal life." (Titus 3:4-7)
Stand in the offering plate.
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