"For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual places in high [places]. Wherefore take unto you the whole armour of God that ye might be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all to stand ... stand therefore, having your loins girt about with truth, and having on the breastplate of righteousness, and your feet shod with the preparation of the gospel of peace. Above all, take the helmet of salvation, and the Word of the Spirit -- which is the Word of God -- praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, and watching thereunto with all perseverance and supplication for all saints.
And for me, that utterance may be given unto me, that I may open my mouth boldly, to make known the mystery of the gospel ... for which I am an ambassador in bonds: that therein I may speak boldly, as I ought to speak. But that ye also may know my affairs, and how I do, Tychicus, a beloved brother and faithful minister in the Lord, shall make known to you all things: whom I have sent unto you for the same purpose, that ye might know our affairs, and that He might comfort your hearts." (Ephesians 6:12-24)
What we are seeing here is a continuance of the preaching of the gospel of Jesus Christ by those who desire to minister in the Lord. The continuance being the "mystery" of the Godhead that was revealed to us in this last time. Apostle Paul is encouraging us in Ephesians to redeem the time and not to be unwise, but rather to understand the will of the Lord for our lives, being filled with the Spirit. His Spirit -- the Holy Ghost. (Ephesians 5:16-20)
It is in herein that we begin to understand the hidden truth of the mystery of Christ. (Colossians 4:3) And we are fortunate in this dispensation of grace, because we can receive the gift of the Holy Ghost which leads and guides us into all truth. The veil has been torn from top to bottom, so that the God of the old covenant can be revealed to us in Jesus the Christ.
Paul writes: "If ye have heard of the dispensation of the grace of God, which is given me to you-ward, how that by revelation He made known unto me the mystery; (as I wrote afore in few words, whereby, when ye read, ye may understand my knowledge in the mystery of Christ) which in other ages was not made known unto the sons of men, as it is now reveled unto His holy apostles and prophets by the Spirit, that the Gentiles should be fellow heirs, and of the same body, and partakers of His promise in Christ by the gospel: whereof I was made a minister, according to the gift of the grace of God given unto me by the effectual working of His power ..." (Ephesians 3:3-7)
So what is the mystery that was kept from the prophets from before the world was formed? That God Himself prepared for Himself a body so that He could become the perfect sacrifice on the cross, shedding His precious blood for you and I -- so that we could be partakers and heirs of His promise in Christ.
God manifest in the flesh. (I Timothy 3:16)
"He was in the world and the world was made by Him and the world knew Him not. He came unto His own and His own received Him not." (John 1:10-11)
The Lord coming forth as a mighty man. (Isaiah 42:13; Isaiah 9:6)
For in Him dwells all the fullness of the Godhead bodily. (Colossians 2:9)
Because of God's willingness to be found in fashion as a man, He humbled Himself and became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross. His love for His creation meant that He made Himself of no reputation, and took upon Him the form of a servant, and was made in the likeness of men. This is why the knee of every man -- at the Name of Jesus will bow and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father. (Philippians 2:4-11)
The Word that was with God and was God was made flesh and dwelt among us, so that we can behold His glory, the glory as the only begotten of the Father. (John 1:1-18) The Holy Ghost overshadowed Mary so that she could bring forth a son -- and thus, the Holy Ghost fathered the child Emmanuel -- God with us. Jesus clarified this to those who would listen when He [Jesus] said, "I and My Father are One." (John 14:6)
"If ye have seen Me," Jesus said, "ye have seen the Father." (John 14:7-10) This is why after Jesus was taken up, He [Jesus] THROUGH the Holy Ghost gave commandments to the apostles whom He had chosen. (Acts 1:2) This is why also the Holy Ghost is renewed/regenerated after Jesus is taken up. (Titus 3:4-7)
God Himself became our Saviour. Not another as the modern day religious culture suggests but the very same He who created man and woman in the very beginning. (Genesis 1:1) And He gave us His Name in this dispensation of grace. The ONLY name under heaven whereby we must be saved. (Acts 4:12) And she shall call His Name Jesus for He shall save His people from their sin. (Matthew 1:21-23; John 3:16-17; Acts 2:36-38)
As Jesus said to the woman at the well, "If thou knew the gift of God, and who it is that saith to thee, "Give me to drink," thou would have asked of Him, and He would have given thee living water." (John 4:10) It took a while before the woman truly understood who Jesus was, and that Jesus was the Messias which is called Christ. However, as we learn from the scriptures, when this woman understood, she ran and told everyone about Jesus.
Yes, as Jesus said to the woman, "I that speak unto thee am He." (John 4:26)
Paul and Tychicus received the same revelation and this is the message that was taught to the early believers. "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 He desires that we put on the new man, which after God is created in righteousness and true holiness. (Ephesians 4:24)
Therefore, as sin hath reigned unto death, even so might grace reign through righteousness unto eternal life by Jesus Christ our Lord. (Romans 6:21) If you have not already received the love and peace of Jesus, ask Jesus to come into your heart today, and be water baptized into Jesus Christ. (Acts 2:38; Acts 10:40-44; Romans 6:3-4)
And put on the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the Word of God, so that you too can understand how much God loves us. 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
Friday, August 19, 2016
Thursday, August 18, 2016
Have Ye Seen the Lord's Christ? Have You Experienced His Glory In Your Life? - Part 1466
And, behold, there was a man in Jerusalem, whose name was Simeon; and the same man was just and devout, waiting for the consolation of Israel. The Holy Ghost was upon him. And it was revealed unto him by the Holy Ghost that he should not see death before he had seen the Lord's Christ. And he came by the Spirit into the temple; and when the parents brought in the child Jesus. to do for Him after the custom of the Law, then took he Him up in his arms and blessed God, and said, "Lord, now lettest thou Thy servant depart in peace, according to Thy Word; for mine eyes have seen Thy salvation, which Thou hast prepared before the face of all people; a light to lighten the Gentiles, and the glory of Thy Israel.
"And Joseph and His mother marvelled at those things which were spoken of Him. And Simeon blessed them, and said unto Mary His mother, "Behold, this [child] is set for the fall and rising again of many in Israel and for a sign which shall be spoken against. (Yea, a sword shall pierce through thy own soul also). that the thoughts of many hearts may be revealed." (Luke 2:25-35)
As we know from the scriptures, the Lord is not the Author of confusion. Every thing that is done is in the presence of two or three witnesses. Seeing the Lord's Christ is not an exception. As we read further, we understand that there was one Anna, a prophetess, the daughter of Phanuel of the tribe of Aser. She was of great age, and had lived with a husband seven years from her virginity. And she was a widow of about fourscore and four years. She did not depart from the temple, but served God with fastings and prayers night and day. But she too, coming in that instant gave thanks unto the Lord, and spake to Him of all them that looked for redemption in Jerusalem.
And when they had performed all things according to the Law of the Lord, Joseph and Mary with Jesus returned into Galilee, to their own city Nazareth, where the child grew and waxed strong in Spirit, filled with wisdom and the grace of God was upon Him. (Luke 2:36-40)
"And Jesus increased in wisdom and stature and in favour with God and man." (Luke 2:52)
For us, as Paul (an apostle of Jesus Christ by the will of God said to the saints and faithful brethren in Christ at Colosse, in desiring to see these said: "I would that ye knew what great conflict I have for you, and for them at Laodicea, and for as many as have not seen my face in the flesh -- that their hearts might be comforted, being knit together in love, and unto all riches of the full assurance of understanding, to the acknowledgement of the mystery of God, and of the Father, and of Christ, in whom are hid all thy treasures of wisdom and knowledge." (Colossians 2:2-3)
Paul wanted to reveal to them who Jesus was because after that in the wisdom of God the world by wisdom knew not God. However, as Paul recognized only too well, "it pleased God by the foolishness of preaching to save them that believe. For the Jews require a sign, and the Greeks seek after wisdom, but we preach Christ crucified, unto the Jews a stumbling block and unto the Greeks foolishness, but unto them which are called, both Jews and Greeks, Christ the power of God is wiser than men, and the weakness of God is stronger than men." (I Corinthians 1:21-25)
Like Simeon and Anna who had seen the Lord's salvation and rejoiced, Paul knew from whence came his salvation as well. Indeed, in the message that he planned to bring to them at Colosse, he knew that there would be great conflict (in the same way that the false trinity teaching has established confusion among the modern day religious culture today). Nevertheless, the doctrine of godliness had to be presented so that these faithful too would understand that Jesus is the promised Lord's Christ.
"And without controversy, great is the mystery of godliness: God was manifest in the flesh, justified in the Spirit, seen of angels, preached unto the Gentiles, believed on in the world, received up into glory." (I Timothy 3:16)
"He was in the world and the world was made by Him and the world knew Him not. He came unto His own and His own received Him not." (John 1:10-11)
Yes, this is the mystery that the world does not understand. This is the love that Simeon had for His Master, and Anna devoted the rest of her widowed life for. " ... that their hearts might be comforted, being knit together in love, and unto all riches of the full assurance of understanding, to the acknowledgement of the mystery of God, and of the Father, and of Christ, in whom are hid all thy treasures of wisdom and knowledge." (Colossians 2:3)
That is, after Jesus was taken up, He [Jesus] THROUGH the Holy Ghost gave commandments unto the apostles whom He had chosen. (Acts 1:2-3) He wanted these to know (and by extension, you and I) that Jesus is our Lord God and Saviour. (Titus 3:4-7) Jesus is both Lord and Christ. (Acts 2:36) Jesus is God manifest in the flesh. (I Timothy 3:16)
And now, in this dispensation of grace, the same Holy Ghost that overshadowed Mary so that she could bring forth a son lives in our hearts, leading and guiding and directing us into all wisdom and truth. He is our Comforter. Jesus said, "I will never leave you, nor forsake you" but He had to first go so that we could receive His gift of the Holy Ghost. (John 14:18-28)
"For He hath said, "I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee, so that we may boldly say, "The Lord is my helper, and I will not fear what man shall do unto me." (Hebrews 13:5-6)
"Jesus Christ, the same yesterday, and today, and for ever." (Hebrews 13:8)
"In whom are hid all thy treasures of wisdom and knowledge." (Colossians 2:3)
Imagine, Paul an apostle born out of due time, understood that God Himself prepared a body for Himself -- God becoming our Saviour so that we could experience His gift of salvation, and yet, many still subscribe to false teachings that suggest that Jesus is not who He said He was. (I Corinthians 15:8) And that the apostles could not have possibly known who Jesus was. But the scriptures suggest otherwise, and as confirmation, His Word is always presented in the presence of two or three witnesses.
Simeon knew Jesus was the Lord's Christ. Anna even spoke to Him -- Jesus -- knowing Him to be the promised Christ. The Messiah that was spoken of by the prophets of old. And Paul, the apostle too, for he wrote:
"But of Him are ye in Christ Jesus, who of God is made unto us wisdom, and righteousness, and sanctification, and redemption; that, according as it is written, "he that glories, let him glory in the Lord." (I Corinthians 1:30-31)
As in "One Lord, One Faith, One Baptism. One God and Father of all, who is above all and through you all and in you all." (Ephesians 4:5-6)
His Name is Jesus ... the mystery of God, and of the Father, and of Christ, in whom are hid all thy treasures of wisdom and knowledge. So the question is this. Are you seeing the Lord's Christ working in your life? Are you experiencing His glory and peace and joy in your heart? Ask Jesus (who Peter standing with the eleven said is both Lord and Christ) to cuddle you in His arms this day. Stand in the offering plate.
"And Joseph and His mother marvelled at those things which were spoken of Him. And Simeon blessed them, and said unto Mary His mother, "Behold, this [child] is set for the fall and rising again of many in Israel and for a sign which shall be spoken against. (Yea, a sword shall pierce through thy own soul also). that the thoughts of many hearts may be revealed." (Luke 2:25-35)
As we know from the scriptures, the Lord is not the Author of confusion. Every thing that is done is in the presence of two or three witnesses. Seeing the Lord's Christ is not an exception. As we read further, we understand that there was one Anna, a prophetess, the daughter of Phanuel of the tribe of Aser. She was of great age, and had lived with a husband seven years from her virginity. And she was a widow of about fourscore and four years. She did not depart from the temple, but served God with fastings and prayers night and day. But she too, coming in that instant gave thanks unto the Lord, and spake to Him of all them that looked for redemption in Jerusalem.
And when they had performed all things according to the Law of the Lord, Joseph and Mary with Jesus returned into Galilee, to their own city Nazareth, where the child grew and waxed strong in Spirit, filled with wisdom and the grace of God was upon Him. (Luke 2:36-40)
"And Jesus increased in wisdom and stature and in favour with God and man." (Luke 2:52)
For us, as Paul (an apostle of Jesus Christ by the will of God said to the saints and faithful brethren in Christ at Colosse, in desiring to see these said: "I would that ye knew what great conflict I have for you, and for them at Laodicea, and for as many as have not seen my face in the flesh -- that their hearts might be comforted, being knit together in love, and unto all riches of the full assurance of understanding, to the acknowledgement of the mystery of God, and of the Father, and of Christ, in whom are hid all thy treasures of wisdom and knowledge." (Colossians 2:2-3)
Paul wanted to reveal to them who Jesus was because after that in the wisdom of God the world by wisdom knew not God. However, as Paul recognized only too well, "it pleased God by the foolishness of preaching to save them that believe. For the Jews require a sign, and the Greeks seek after wisdom, but we preach Christ crucified, unto the Jews a stumbling block and unto the Greeks foolishness, but unto them which are called, both Jews and Greeks, Christ the power of God is wiser than men, and the weakness of God is stronger than men." (I Corinthians 1:21-25)
Like Simeon and Anna who had seen the Lord's salvation and rejoiced, Paul knew from whence came his salvation as well. Indeed, in the message that he planned to bring to them at Colosse, he knew that there would be great conflict (in the same way that the false trinity teaching has established confusion among the modern day religious culture today). Nevertheless, the doctrine of godliness had to be presented so that these faithful too would understand that Jesus is the promised Lord's Christ.
"And without controversy, great is the mystery of godliness: God was manifest in the flesh, justified in the Spirit, seen of angels, preached unto the Gentiles, believed on in the world, received up into glory." (I Timothy 3:16)
"He was in the world and the world was made by Him and the world knew Him not. He came unto His own and His own received Him not." (John 1:10-11)
Yes, this is the mystery that the world does not understand. This is the love that Simeon had for His Master, and Anna devoted the rest of her widowed life for. " ... that their hearts might be comforted, being knit together in love, and unto all riches of the full assurance of understanding, to the acknowledgement of the mystery of God, and of the Father, and of Christ, in whom are hid all thy treasures of wisdom and knowledge." (Colossians 2:3)
That is, after Jesus was taken up, He [Jesus] THROUGH the Holy Ghost gave commandments unto the apostles whom He had chosen. (Acts 1:2-3) He wanted these to know (and by extension, you and I) that Jesus is our Lord God and Saviour. (Titus 3:4-7) Jesus is both Lord and Christ. (Acts 2:36) Jesus is God manifest in the flesh. (I Timothy 3:16)
And now, in this dispensation of grace, the same Holy Ghost that overshadowed Mary so that she could bring forth a son lives in our hearts, leading and guiding and directing us into all wisdom and truth. He is our Comforter. Jesus said, "I will never leave you, nor forsake you" but He had to first go so that we could receive His gift of the Holy Ghost. (John 14:18-28)
"For He hath said, "I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee, so that we may boldly say, "The Lord is my helper, and I will not fear what man shall do unto me." (Hebrews 13:5-6)
"Jesus Christ, the same yesterday, and today, and for ever." (Hebrews 13:8)
"In whom are hid all thy treasures of wisdom and knowledge." (Colossians 2:3)
Imagine, Paul an apostle born out of due time, understood that God Himself prepared a body for Himself -- God becoming our Saviour so that we could experience His gift of salvation, and yet, many still subscribe to false teachings that suggest that Jesus is not who He said He was. (I Corinthians 15:8) And that the apostles could not have possibly known who Jesus was. But the scriptures suggest otherwise, and as confirmation, His Word is always presented in the presence of two or three witnesses.
Simeon knew Jesus was the Lord's Christ. Anna even spoke to Him -- Jesus -- knowing Him to be the promised Christ. The Messiah that was spoken of by the prophets of old. And Paul, the apostle too, for he wrote:
"But of Him are ye in Christ Jesus, who of God is made unto us wisdom, and righteousness, and sanctification, and redemption; that, according as it is written, "he that glories, let him glory in the Lord." (I Corinthians 1:30-31)
As in "One Lord, One Faith, One Baptism. One God and Father of all, who is above all and through you all and in you all." (Ephesians 4:5-6)
His Name is Jesus ... the mystery of God, and of the Father, and of Christ, in whom are hid all thy treasures of wisdom and knowledge. So the question is this. Are you seeing the Lord's Christ working in your life? Are you experiencing His glory and peace and joy in your heart? Ask Jesus (who Peter standing with the eleven said is both Lord and Christ) to cuddle you in His arms this day. Stand in the offering plate.
Wednesday, August 17, 2016
Fear Thou Not; For I Am With Thee: Be Not Dismayed For I Am Thy God, I Will Strengthen Thee - Part 1465
"I have blotted out, as a thick cloud, thy transgressions, and, as a cloud thy sins. Return unto Me for I have redeemed thee. Sing O ye heavens; for the Lord hath done it; shout, ye lower parts of the earth; break forth into singing, ye mountains, O forest, and every tree therein: for the Lord hath redeemed Jacob and glorified Himself in Israel.
Thus saith the Lord, thy redeemer, and He that formed thee from the womb ...
"I am the Lord that makes all things; that stretches forth the heavens alone; that spreads abroad the earth by Myself; that frustrates the tokens of the liars and makes diviners mad; that turns wise men backward and makes their knowledge foolish; that confirms the Word of His servant, and performs the counsel of His messengers; that saith to Jerusalem, "Thou shalt be inhabited" and to the cities of Judah, "Ye shall be built, and I will raise up the decayed places thereof, that saith to the deep, "Be dry and I will dry up thy rivers that saith of Cyprus, "He is my Shepherd and shall perform all my pleasure" even saying to Jerusalem,"Thou shalt be built" and to thy temple, "Thy foundation shall be laid." (Isaiah 44:22-28)
As believers in Jesus by faith, understanding that "there is none other beside Me, saith the Lord," we have nothing to fear, for He has taken the foolish things of the earth and made them wise. He has comforted the brokenhearted with His love and welcomed the down trodden into His fold. He willingly restores our soul.
"And I will give thee the treasures of darkness, and hidden riches of secret places, that thou may know that I, the Lord, which call thee by thy name ... I am the Lord, and there is none else: there is no God beside Me. I girded thee, though thou hast not known Me, that they may know from the rising of the sun and from the west, that there is none beside Me. I am the Lord, and there is none else." (Isaiah 45:1-6)
In the beginning, the Lord formed the light, and create darkness. Under the old covenant, He made peace and created calamity, saying, "I the Lord do all these [things]." (Isaiah 45:7) But after declaring peace and good will to all in this new testament dispensation, the angels sing, "Glory to God in the highest. Peace and good will to all [men]." (Luke 2:14) In other words, He Himself who knew no sin ushered in His righteousness for all who turn to Him.
Thus saith the Lord for this day - "Drop down ye heavens from above, and let the skies pour down righteousness: let the earth open and let them bring forth salvation, and let righteousness spring up together. I the Lord have created it." (Isaiah 45:8)
Why would the God who created us in the beginning become as one of us? Because He loves His creation beyond measure, and as a consequence of His love, the same God who created us in the beginning willing paid the price for our sin on the cross. He became the perfect sacrifice so that our sins could be forgiven once and for all. Indeed, "as far as the east is from the west, so far hath He removed our transgressions from us." (Psalm 103:12)
This is why we are to look to the Lord for our daily sustenance. "Look unto Me and be ye saved," saith the Lord, "all the ends of the earth: for I AM God, and there is none else. I have sworn by Myself. The Word is gone out of My mouth in righteousness, and shall not return. That unto Me every knee shall bow, every tongue shall swear. Surely, shall one say, in the Lord have I righteousness and strength: even to Him shall men come; and all that are incensed against Him shall be ashamed. In the lord shall all the seed of Israel be justified, and shall glory." (Isaiah 45:21-25; Hebrews 14:11)
"For when God made promise to Abraham, because He could swear by no greater, He sware by Himself, saying, "Surely blessing I will bless thee, and multiplying I will multiply thee ... and so, after He had patiently endured, he obtained the promise." (Hebrews 6:13-15)
The Word that was with God and was God was made flesh for you and I. "He was in the world and the world was made by Him and the world knew Him not. He came unto His own and His own received Him not. But as many as received Him, to them gave He power to become the sons of God [even] to them that believe on His Name." (John 1:10-12)
God manifest in the flesh. (I Timothy 3:16) God became our Saviour. (Titus 3:4-7) The fullness of the Godhead dwelt bodily in Christ Jesus. (Colossians 1:17; Colossians 2:9) The Lord came forth as a mighty man. (Isaiah 42:13; Isaiah 9:6) And she will bring forth a son and thou shalt call His Name JESUS for He shall save His people from their sins ... Emmanuel, which being interpreted is God with us." (Matthew 1:21-23)
Jesus -- He is both Lord and Christ. The One and Only. The Alpha and Omega, the first and the last, the beginning and the ending. The King of kings and Lord of lords. Therefore, 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) This is why we cry out in joy, "Abba, Father" because we have so very much to be thankful for.
And now, my friend, the acceptable time has also come for you to ask Jesus to be both Lord and Christ in your life. The promise that was prophesied in the old has been glorified and made known for one and all to behold. He is the Light of the world. He is the Good Shepherd who laid down His life for His sheep. He is saying, "Come!"
"Come unto Me," Jesus said, "all ye who labour and are heavy laden and I will give you rest." (Matthew 11:28)
Be water baptized (buried and resurrected from the water) in the precious Name of the Lord Jesus (according to Acts 2:36-47) and receive ye the gift of the Holy Ghost. (Acts 10:40-44; Romans 6:3-4; I Peter 3:21-22) Find a new testament Bible and begin to understand that everything that Jesus did (including shedding His precious holy blood for you and I on the cross) was done so that we might experience His mercy and grace. And, so that the scriptures of the prophets too might be fulfilled so that we know His Word is true. (Matthew 26:56)
Yes, Jesus is the prophesied Christ, and in every situation that we might face in this life, Jesus never fails. He has called us to a higher calling "that they [we] might have My [His] joy fulfilled in themselves [us]." (John 17:13) And if you are able, commit the following passage from Psalm 23 to heart so that in times of trouble, illness, or temptation, He can bring to your remembrance His goodness and grace.
Stand in the offering plate.
But If Ye Be Led of the Spirit, Ye Are Not Under the Law .. For the Law Made Nothing Perfect - Part 1464
"For sin shall not have dominion over you; for ye are NOT under the Law but under grace." (Romans 6:14)
Increasingly, there is a move within man-made religious circles to place restrictions on those who believe in Jesus by faith. In many respects, these teachings are taking us away from standing fast therefore in the liberty wherewith Christ has made us free, entangling us once again under an old covenant law that was not ever intended for those of us who are not Jews. (Galatians 5:1)
This may explain why Apostle Paul (an apostle to the Gentiles -- those who are not Jews) said, "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?" (Galatians 3:1)
This is a very good question.
"But now, after that ye have known God, or rather are known of God, how turn ye again to the weak and beggarly elements, where unto ye desire again to be in bondage?" (Galatians 4:9)
"For the law made nothing perfect, but the bringing in of a better hope did, by the which we draw nigh unto God ... by so much was Jesus made a surety of a better testament." (Hebrews 7:19-22)
Indeed, the Law (and ten commandments) were intended as a schoolmaster to bring us closer to Jesus, so that we could experience His peace and joy and love in our lives, and be renewed from the things of this earth to the heavenly.
"Wherefore the Law was our schoolmaster to bring us unto Christ, that we might be justified by faith. But after that faith is come, we are no longer under a schoolmaster." (Galatians 3:24-25)
"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 ministers to you the Spirit, and works miracles among you, does 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.
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)
Increasingly, there is a move within man-made religious circles to place restrictions on those who believe in Jesus by faith. In many respects, these teachings are taking us away from standing fast therefore in the liberty wherewith Christ has made us free, entangling us once again under an old covenant law that was not ever intended for those of us who are not Jews. (Galatians 5:1)
This may explain why Apostle Paul (an apostle to the Gentiles -- those who are not Jews) said, "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?" (Galatians 3:1)
This is a very good question.
"But now, after that ye have known God, or rather are known of God, how turn ye again to the weak and beggarly elements, where unto ye desire again to be in bondage?" (Galatians 4:9)
"For the law made nothing perfect, but the bringing in of a better hope did, by the which we draw nigh unto God ... by so much was Jesus made a surety of a better testament." (Hebrews 7:19-22)
Indeed, the Law (and ten commandments) were intended as a schoolmaster to bring us closer to Jesus, so that we could experience His peace and joy and love in our lives, and be renewed from the things of this earth to the heavenly.
"Wherefore the Law was our schoolmaster to bring us unto Christ, that we might be justified by faith. But after that faith is come, we are no longer under a schoolmaster." (Galatians 3:24-25)
After the promise came, the Law of faith was promulgated, meaning that when we ask Jesus to become both Lord and Christ in our life, we as believers in Jesus by faith are no longer under that schoolmaster of old. For ye who have believed on Christ have become His heirs, joint heirs in Christ, and as we know His commandments are not grievous.
From Galatians 3, apostle Paul clarifies the apostolic doctrine that was established on the day of Pentecost, including water baptism in the precious Name of our Lord Jesus Christ. (Acts 2:36-47)
He therefore that ministers to you the Spirit, and works miracles among you, does 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 continues 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 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.
Brethren, I speak after the manner of men; Though it be but a man's covenant, yet if it be confirmed, no man disannuls 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. 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 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)
Thus, "being made perfect, He became the Author of eternal salvation unto all them that obey Him." (Hebrews 5:9)
His Name is JESUS for He alone shall save His people from their sins. (Matthew 1:21-23) Stand in the offering plate.
Friday, August 12, 2016
And The Word of the Lord Came, Saying, "Hear The Word of the Lord!" - Part 1463
"And I will set up ONE SHEPHERD over them, and He shall feed them, even My servant David; He shall feed them, and He shall be their shepherd. And I the Lord will be their God, and My servant David a prince among them; I the Lord have spoken it. And I will make with them a covenant of peace, and will cause the evil beasts to cease out of the land: and they shall dwell safely in the wilderness, and sleep in the woods. And I will make them and the places round about my hill a blessing; and I will cause the shower to come down in His season; there shall be showers of blessing." (Ezekiel 34:23-26)
Today, I felt compelled to bring forward a prophecy from Ezekiel -- the Word of the Lord that is more than pertinent for this last day, as a reminder that those who profess to shepherd the flock and to prophesy in this current dispensation of grace must do so according to the Word that is written. And, that there is only ONE SHEPHERD according to the Lord God. "Hear ye Him!"
Sadly, however, we know from observing many within the religious world that there are many fine sounding words being tossed about without any Word to support the commentary. The analogy of a house built on the sand comes to mind. But our house is not to be built upon the sand but the Rock which is Jesus.
This Word is taken from Ezekiel 34. Read for yourself what the Word of the Lord God has to say about this current time in which we live.
"And the Word of the Lord came unto me, saying, "Son of man, prophesy against the shepherds of Israel, prophesy, and say unto them, "Thus saith the Lord God unto the shepherds; "Woe be to the shepherds of Israel that do feed themselves! Should not the shepherds feed the flocks? Ye eat the fat, and ye clothe you with the wool, ye kill them that are fed: but ye feed not the flock.
The diseased have ye not strengthened, neither have ye healed that which was sick, neither have ye bound up that which was broken, neither have ye brought again that which was driven away, neither have ye sought that which was lost; but with force and with cruelty have ye ruled them.
And they were scattered, because there is no shepherd: and they became meat to all the beasts of the field, when they were scattered. My sheep wandered through all the mountains, and upon every high hill: yea, my flock was scattered upon all the face of the earth, and none did search or seek after them. Therefore, ye shepherds, hear the word of the Lord."
"As I live," saith the Lord God, "surely because My flock became a prey, and My flock became meat to every beast of the field, because there was no shepherd, neither did my shepherds search for My flock, but the shepherds fed themselves, and fed not My flock. Therefore, O ye shepherds, hear the Word of the Lord,"
Thus saith the Lord God; "Behold, I am against the shepherds; and I will require My flock at their hand, and cause them to cease from feeding the flock; neither shall the shepherds feed themselves any more; for I will deliver my flock from their mouth, that they may not be meat for them."
Therefore thus saith the Lord God unto them; "Behold, I, even I, will judge between the fat cattle and between the lean cattle. Because ye have thrust with side and with shoulder, and pushed all the diseased with your horns, till ye have scattered them abroad. Therefore will I save my flock, and they shall no more be a prey; and I will judge between cattle and cattle.
And I will set up One Shepherd over them, and He shall feed them, even My servant David; He shall feed them, and He shall be their shepherd. And I the Lord will be their God, and My servant David a prince among them; I the Lord have spoken it. And I will make with them a covenant of peace, and will cause the evil beasts to cease out of the land: and they shall dwell safely in the wilderness, and sleep in the woods. And I will make them and the places round about my hill a blessing; and I will cause the shower to come down in his season; there shall be showers of blessing.
And the tree of the field shall yield her fruit, and the earth shall yield her increase, and they shall be safe in their land, and shall know that I am the Lord, when I have broken the bands of their yoke, and delivered them out of the hand of those that served themselves of them. And they shall no more be a prey to the heathen, neither shall the beast of the land devour them; but they shall dwell safely, and none shall make them afraid. And I will raise up for them a plant of renown, and they shall be no more consumed with hunger in the land, neither bear the shame of the heathen any more.
Thus shall they know that I the Lord their God am with them, and that they, even the house of Israel, are My people," saith the Lord God. "And ye My flock, the flock of My pasture, are men, and I am your God," saith the Lord God." (Ezekiel 34:1-31)
"For ye were as sheep going astray; but are now returned unto the Shepherd and Bishop of your souls." (I Peter 2:25)
Jesus said, "I am the good Shepherd: the good Shepherd gives His life for the sheep." (John 10:11)
"I am the good Shepherd, and know My [sheep], and am known of Mine." (John 10:14)
"The LORD [is] my Shepherd; I shall not want." (Psalm 23:1-6)
"And when the chief Shepherd shall appear, ye shall receive a crown of glory that fadeth not away." (I Peter 5:4)
"Now the God of peace, that brought again from the dead our Lord Jesus, that great Shepherd of the sheep, through the blood of the everlasting covenant ..." (Hebrews 13:20)
Jesus told us that "when the Son of man shall come in His glory, and all the holy angels with Him, then shall He sit upon the throne of His glory ..." (Matthew 25:31-46)
Today, I felt compelled to bring forward a prophecy from Ezekiel -- the Word of the Lord that is more than pertinent for this last day, as a reminder that those who profess to shepherd the flock and to prophesy in this current dispensation of grace must do so according to the Word that is written. And, that there is only ONE SHEPHERD according to the Lord God. "Hear ye Him!"
Sadly, however, we know from observing many within the religious world that there are many fine sounding words being tossed about without any Word to support the commentary. The analogy of a house built on the sand comes to mind. But our house is not to be built upon the sand but the Rock which is Jesus.
This Word is taken from Ezekiel 34. Read for yourself what the Word of the Lord God has to say about this current time in which we live.
"And the Word of the Lord came unto me, saying, "Son of man, prophesy against the shepherds of Israel, prophesy, and say unto them, "Thus saith the Lord God unto the shepherds; "Woe be to the shepherds of Israel that do feed themselves! Should not the shepherds feed the flocks? Ye eat the fat, and ye clothe you with the wool, ye kill them that are fed: but ye feed not the flock.
The diseased have ye not strengthened, neither have ye healed that which was sick, neither have ye bound up that which was broken, neither have ye brought again that which was driven away, neither have ye sought that which was lost; but with force and with cruelty have ye ruled them.
And they were scattered, because there is no shepherd: and they became meat to all the beasts of the field, when they were scattered. My sheep wandered through all the mountains, and upon every high hill: yea, my flock was scattered upon all the face of the earth, and none did search or seek after them. Therefore, ye shepherds, hear the word of the Lord."
"As I live," saith the Lord God, "surely because My flock became a prey, and My flock became meat to every beast of the field, because there was no shepherd, neither did my shepherds search for My flock, but the shepherds fed themselves, and fed not My flock. Therefore, O ye shepherds, hear the Word of the Lord,"
Thus saith the Lord God; "Behold, I am against the shepherds; and I will require My flock at their hand, and cause them to cease from feeding the flock; neither shall the shepherds feed themselves any more; for I will deliver my flock from their mouth, that they may not be meat for them."
For thus saith the Lord God; "Behold, I, even I, will both search My sheep, and seek them out ... as a shepherd seeks out his flock in the day that he is among his sheep that are scattered; so will I seek out My sheep, and will deliver them out of all places where they have been scattered in the cloudy and dark day. And I will bring them out from the people, and gather them from the countries, and will bring them to their own land, and feed them upon the mountains of Israel by the rivers, and in all the inhabited places of the country.
I will feed them in a good pasture, and upon the high mountains of Israel shall their fold be: there shall they lie in a good fold, and in a fat pasture shall they feed upon the mountains of Israel. I will feed My flock, and I will cause them to lie down," saith the Lord God.
"I will seek that which was lost, and bring again that which was driven away, and will bind up that which was broken, and will strengthen that which was sick: but I will destroy the fat and the strong; I will feed them with judgment. And as for you, O my flock," thus saith the Lord God; "Behold, I judge between cattle and cattle, between the rams and the he goats.
Seemeth it a small thing unto you to have eaten up the good pasture, but ye must tread down with your feet the residue of your pastures? and to have drunk of the deep waters, but ye must foul the residue with your feet? And as for My flock, they eat that which ye have trodden with your feet; and they drink that which ye have fouled with your feet."I will feed them in a good pasture, and upon the high mountains of Israel shall their fold be: there shall they lie in a good fold, and in a fat pasture shall they feed upon the mountains of Israel. I will feed My flock, and I will cause them to lie down," saith the Lord God.
"I will seek that which was lost, and bring again that which was driven away, and will bind up that which was broken, and will strengthen that which was sick: but I will destroy the fat and the strong; I will feed them with judgment. And as for you, O my flock," thus saith the Lord God; "Behold, I judge between cattle and cattle, between the rams and the he goats.
Therefore thus saith the Lord God unto them; "Behold, I, even I, will judge between the fat cattle and between the lean cattle. Because ye have thrust with side and with shoulder, and pushed all the diseased with your horns, till ye have scattered them abroad. Therefore will I save my flock, and they shall no more be a prey; and I will judge between cattle and cattle.
And I will set up One Shepherd over them, and He shall feed them, even My servant David; He shall feed them, and He shall be their shepherd. And I the Lord will be their God, and My servant David a prince among them; I the Lord have spoken it. And I will make with them a covenant of peace, and will cause the evil beasts to cease out of the land: and they shall dwell safely in the wilderness, and sleep in the woods. And I will make them and the places round about my hill a blessing; and I will cause the shower to come down in his season; there shall be showers of blessing.
And the tree of the field shall yield her fruit, and the earth shall yield her increase, and they shall be safe in their land, and shall know that I am the Lord, when I have broken the bands of their yoke, and delivered them out of the hand of those that served themselves of them. And they shall no more be a prey to the heathen, neither shall the beast of the land devour them; but they shall dwell safely, and none shall make them afraid. And I will raise up for them a plant of renown, and they shall be no more consumed with hunger in the land, neither bear the shame of the heathen any more.
Yes, this is the dispensation of peace, whereby the Lord has declared "Glory to God in the highest; peace and good will toward all [men]." (Luke 2:14)
Simeon, a just and devout man waiting for the consolation of Israel and the holy Ghost upon him said, upon seeing the Lord's Christ -- Jesus -- "Lord, now let thou Thy servant depart in peace, according to Thy Word ... for mine eyes have seen Thy salvation which Thou hast prepared before the face of all people. A light to lighten the Gentiles and the glory of Thy Israel." (Luke 2:25-32)
Jesus is the ONE and ONLY Shepherd for this day and age, and He will lead and guide us into all truth, if we believe in Him by faith, and are water baptized in His precious name. (Acts 2:36-38; Acts 4:12; Acts 10:40-44; I Peter 3:21-23; Romans 6:3-4)
Yes, Jesus, who is both Lord and Christ. Seek His goodness and grace from His Word. Be fully clothed in His righteousness, and let Him prepare your ways -- the day spring from on high who willingly visited us, to give light to them that sit in darkness and in the shadow of death, to guide our feet into the way of peace." (Luke 1:68-79)
He is our One and Only Shepherd -- who gives knowledge unto His people by the remission of their sins. (Luke 1:77) So, the next time you hear a representative of the church refer to himself or herself as a shepherd of the flock, remember what the Word of the Lord God saith:
Jesus said, "I am the good Shepherd: the good Shepherd gives His life for the sheep." (John 10:11)
"I am the good Shepherd, and know My [sheep], and am known of Mine." (John 10:14)
"The LORD [is] my Shepherd; I shall not want." (Psalm 23:1-6)
"And when the chief Shepherd shall appear, ye shall receive a crown of glory that fadeth not away." (I Peter 5:4)
"Now the God of peace, that brought again from the dead our Lord Jesus, that great Shepherd of the sheep, through the blood of the everlasting covenant ..." (Hebrews 13:20)
Jesus told us that "when the Son of man shall come in His glory, and all the holy angels with Him, then shall He sit upon the throne of His glory ..." (Matthew 25:31-46)
And so shall we if we hear the Word of the Lord God who loved us enough to shed His precious holy blood on a cross, so that you and I might have life!
Who is the Word? Jesus, And the Word was in the world and the world was made by Him and the world knew Him not. He came unto His own and His own received Him not, but as many as received Him, to them gave He power to become the sons of God -- [even] to them that believe on His Name. (John 1:1-18)
Stand in the offering plate.
Thursday, August 11, 2016
For We (You and I) Are His Workmanship, Created in Christ Jesus Unto Good Works, Which God Hath Before Ordained That We Should Walk In Them. - Part 1462
"For other foundation can no man lay than that is laid, which is Jesus Christ." (I Corinthians 3:11)
For when the holy Spirit of truth is come, He shall lead and guide you into all truth. He shall bring all things to your remembrance whatsoever I-- Jesus "have said to you." For another foundation can no man lay, other than that which has been laid. This is why Christ is the chief cornerstone and His chosen apostles the foundation. For the apostles by the holy Spirit have expounded to us the first principles of the doctrines of Christ. (Hebrews 6:1-2) It also explains why the Word was given of God. The Word sent to us -- written and confirmed of God -- so that no man can deceive those who believe that the written gospel is indeed the Word of God.
For there are many who have departed from this faith, giving heed to seducing spirits and doctrines of devils who deceive people simply because new believers have not read the scriptures and discerned Jesus' teachings for themselves. Therefore, we ought to give more earnest heed to the things which we have both seen and heard lest at any time we should let them slip away too. For if this gospel is hid, it is hid to them that are lost because of their unbelief. Sadly, too many unbelievers stagger at the simplicity of faith being exercised in the Word of God, choosing to follow what appears to be a more enlightened way.
But what does God say? "What is man, that Thou should magnify him? and that Thou should set Thine heart upon him?" (Job 7:17)
"What is man, that he should be clean? and he which is born of a woman, that he should be righteous? (Job 15:14)
For when the holy Spirit of truth is come, He shall lead and guide you into all truth. He shall bring all things to your remembrance whatsoever I-- Jesus "have said to you." For another foundation can no man lay, other than that which has been laid. This is why Christ is the chief cornerstone and His chosen apostles the foundation. For the apostles by the holy Spirit have expounded to us the first principles of the doctrines of Christ. (Hebrews 6:1-2) It also explains why the Word was given of God. The Word sent to us -- written and confirmed of God -- so that no man can deceive those who believe that the written gospel is indeed the Word of God.
For there are many who have departed from this faith, giving heed to seducing spirits and doctrines of devils who deceive people simply because new believers have not read the scriptures and discerned Jesus' teachings for themselves. Therefore, we ought to give more earnest heed to the things which we have both seen and heard lest at any time we should let them slip away too. For if this gospel is hid, it is hid to them that are lost because of their unbelief. Sadly, too many unbelievers stagger at the simplicity of faith being exercised in the Word of God, choosing to follow what appears to be a more enlightened way.
But what does God say? "What is man, that Thou should magnify him? and that Thou should set Thine heart upon him?" (Job 7:17)
"What is man, that he should be clean? and he which is born of a woman, that he should be righteous? (Job 15:14)
"What is man, that Thou art mindful of him? and the son of man, that thou visit him?" (Psalm 8:4)
"But one in a certain place testified, saying, "What is man, that Thou art mindful of him? or the son of man, that Thou visitest him?" (Hebrews 2:6)
Still, God has a people which He foreknew even before the world was created. That's right. God foreordained a people to be His elect chosen of God! He did so because God is the Father of all spirits. He is the Alpha and Omega -- likened to a potter. As as a potter, God creates one vessel to honour while another vessel dishonours but each vessel of itself fitted of God to serve whatever purpose is required. In unfolding the universe, God orchestrates all things after the counsel of His own will. That said, no one has been His counsellor.
But God is not unrighteous. Neither is He unmerciful. God has chosen to create a visible kingdom -- visible in all ways and yet similar to His unseen (to us) spiritual kingdom. ‘Thy kingdom come, thy will be done on earth as it is in Heaven." The things which are created visibly display the power and majesty of God so that all men are without excuse for their willing denial of God’s presence. For it is in God that we all live and move and have our being. God is altogether merciful toward man and is long suffering to man’s foolishness and willing ignorance.
This is why we read in Genesis that man was made in God’s image a visible expression of God to be manifest in a body of flesh whilst the life within man displays the inward life outwardly. We also read here that Adam was a created son of God. Adam sinned the sin of disobedience and was put forth into a world outside of the garden of Eden with a death penalty resulting from disobedience. Adam was forewarned not to partake of a certain fruit. However, setting himself apart from the Word of God, Adam brought upon himself the wages of disobedience which is spiritual and physical death. As Adam’s offspring, we inherit the penalty which is why there is none righteous in the world today. No, not one.
But God did not plan to leave us helpless in this state. God loved His creation. Even though it appears that God had lost the battle resulting through the craftiness of the devil in beguiling Adam to indulge in disobedience, the battle was not lost as we know from the New Testament today. God planted into Eve a pure SEED adding that this SEED of the woman would bruise the serpent’s head ( power)’ for in this SEED will all the nations of the earth through the exercise of faith.
Be blessed. Stand in the offering plate.
Still, God has a people which He foreknew even before the world was created. That's right. God foreordained a people to be His elect chosen of God! He did so because God is the Father of all spirits. He is the Alpha and Omega -- likened to a potter. As as a potter, God creates one vessel to honour while another vessel dishonours but each vessel of itself fitted of God to serve whatever purpose is required. In unfolding the universe, God orchestrates all things after the counsel of His own will. That said, no one has been His counsellor.
But God is not unrighteous. Neither is He unmerciful. God has chosen to create a visible kingdom -- visible in all ways and yet similar to His unseen (to us) spiritual kingdom. ‘Thy kingdom come, thy will be done on earth as it is in Heaven." The things which are created visibly display the power and majesty of God so that all men are without excuse for their willing denial of God’s presence. For it is in God that we all live and move and have our being. God is altogether merciful toward man and is long suffering to man’s foolishness and willing ignorance.
This is why we read in Genesis that man was made in God’s image a visible expression of God to be manifest in a body of flesh whilst the life within man displays the inward life outwardly. We also read here that Adam was a created son of God. Adam sinned the sin of disobedience and was put forth into a world outside of the garden of Eden with a death penalty resulting from disobedience. Adam was forewarned not to partake of a certain fruit. However, setting himself apart from the Word of God, Adam brought upon himself the wages of disobedience which is spiritual and physical death. As Adam’s offspring, we inherit the penalty which is why there is none righteous in the world today. No, not one.
But God did not plan to leave us helpless in this state. God loved His creation. Even though it appears that God had lost the battle resulting through the craftiness of the devil in beguiling Adam to indulge in disobedience, the battle was not lost as we know from the New Testament today. God planted into Eve a pure SEED adding that this SEED of the woman would bruise the serpent’s head ( power)’ for in this SEED will all the nations of the earth through the exercise of faith.
Be blessed. Stand in the offering plate.
Monday, August 8, 2016
If Any Of You Lack Wisdom, Let Him Ask Of God That Gives To All Men Liberally - Part 1461
Jesus said, "Behold, I stand at the door and knock; if any man hear My voice, and open the door, I will come into Him and will sup with Him and He with Me. To Him that overcomes will I grant to sit with Me in My throne, even as I also overcame and am set down with My Father in His throne. He that hath an ear let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches." (Revelation 3:21-22)
From these scriptures, there are those who would present God as three -- and not ONE as the scriptures have taught from the beginning. These ignore the very first commandment given in the old covenant and confirmed again by Jesus in the new testament.
"And one of the scribes came, and having heard them reasoning together, and perceiving that he had answered them well, asked him, "Which is the first commandment of all?" And Jesus answered him, "The first of all the commandments is, "Hear, O Israel; The Lord our God is one Lord" and thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind, and with all thy strength. This is the first commandment. And the second is like, namely this, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself. There is none other commandment greater than these." (Mark 12:28-31; Deuteronomy 6:4)
These also suggest that there will be more than one bridegroom at the wedding feast, and we all know that there is no scripture to support this erroneous teaching. Jesus said, when speaking to the churches in the book of Revelation:
"And to the angel of the church in Philadelphia write; "These things saith He that is holy, He that is true -- "He that hath the key of David, He that openeth, and no man shutteth; and shutteth, and no man openeth. I know thy works. Behold, I have set before thee an open door, and no man can shut it; for thou hast a little strength, and hast kept My Word, and hast not denied My Name ..." (Revelation 3:8-9)
Therefore, it is necessary to recognize that any discussion regarding the Word of God must come from scripture and not longstanding church culture, religious traditions, or erroneous institutional dogma. Why? Because God is NOT the Author of confusion. If we are confused, we are to search the scriptures, for therein, "Lo, the volume of the book is written of Me."
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)
There is only ONE God and in this current dispensation of grace, His Name is Jesus. This is not a change from how God chose to reveal Himself to His people under the old covenant. Rather, herein this testament, God reveals Himself in this only name given under heaven whereby we must be saved. (Acts 4:12; Hebrews 9:15-18) The precious Name of Jesus.
"And for this cause, He is the Mediator of the new testament, that by means of death, for the redemption of the transgressions that were under the first testament, they which are called might receive the promise of eternal inheritance. For where a testament is, there must also of necessity be the death of the testator." (Hebrews 9:15-16)
We understand that there must be a last will and testament in the earthly. Why then is it so difficult to likewise understand that heavenly?
"For then must He often have suffered since the foundation of the world; but now, once in the end of the world hath He appeared to put away sin by the sacrifice of Himself. And, as it is appointed unto men once to die, but after this the judgment, so Christ was once offered to bear the sins of many; and took unto them that look for Him shall He appear the second time without sin unto salvation." (Hebrews 9:26-28)
But not as a second God (or a lesser God) as some teach but as the Alpha and Omega, the first and the last, the beginning AND the ending. Jesus -- King of kings and Lord of lords. (Revelation 1:8, 11) The ONE AND ONLY God who loved us enough to become our Saviour. (Matthew 1:21-23; Titus 3:4-7; John 1:1-18)
So don't be misled by the fine sounding teachings of those who prefer the traditions of men to sound doctrine. (Hebrews 6:1-2; Acts 2:36-47) Because as Peter (standing with the eleven) indicated on the day of Pentecost, this SAME Jesus whom ye have crucified is BOTH LORD AND CHRIST. (Acts 2:36)
Indeed, Jesus told us who He was.
Jesus said, "I and My Father are One." (John 10:30)
After Jesus was taken up, He [Jesus] THROUGH the Holy Ghost gave commandments to the apostles whom He had chosen. (Acts 1:2-3)
Not as a separate being/person but regenerated again to the same Holy Ghost that overshadowed Mary. (Luke 1:35; Titus 3:4-7; Ephesians 4:5-6; I Timothy 3:16)
The Lord Himself came forth as a mighty man. (Isaiah 42:13; Isaiah 9:6)
"He was in the world and the world was made by Him and the world knew Him not. He came unto His own and His own received Him not." (John 1:10-11)
All the fullness of the Godhead dwelt bodily in Him [Jesus]. (Colossians 2:9; I Timothy 3:16)
If there was a trinity in any form -- as many religious teach today, we would worship "them" and not the "Him" that is exalted in His Word. This is why God hath exalted Him -- the Him being the Name of Jesus which is above every other name. (Philippians 2:5-11)
There is only ONE Lord, ONE Faith and ONE Baptism. (Ephesians 4:5-6)
Before the foundation of the world, the same Spirit of the Lord God who created the world had already decided that He Himself must bring salvation to those who are lost. (I Peter 1:18-25) God in Christ. (II Corinthians 5:19; John 20:28; John 1:1-18) God our Saviour. (Galatians 3:17)
Jesus said, "If you had known Me, ye have known My Father also; and from henceforth ye known Him and have seen Him." (John 14:6-10)
This is why we can now receive the Spirit of truth, the Comforter (who is the SAME SPIRIT of Jesus who was in the world) within because we know who He is -- the Holy Ghost. (John 14:26; John 15:26)
As Jesus said, "If you do not believe that I AM HE, then ye shall die in your sins." (John 8:24)
"Before Abraham was, I AM." (John 8:57-59)
This is the reason why the cross was such a contradiction. But the cross was necessary in order for us in these last times to have salvation according to the pleasure of His will, He willingly made the sacrifice.
Jesus said, "And now O Father glorify Thou Me with Thine own self with the glory which I had with Thee BEFORE the world was. I have manifested THY NAME unto the men which Thou gavest Me out of the world: Thine they were, and Thou gavest them Me; and they have kept Thy Word." (John 17:5-6)
Not God in three persons but One God who loved us enough to become as one of us. God manifest in the flesh. (I Timothy 3:16) This is why the first 3,000 souls saved on the day of Pentecost were water baptized in the Name of the Lord Jesus Christ, because there is no other NAME whereby salvation can be obtained. (Acts 2:36-38; Acts 4:12; Acts 10:44-48; Romans 6:3-4; I Peter 3:21-23) These early believers in the gospel of Jesus Christ, when pricked in their hearts recognized that this same Jesus whom ye have crucified is BOTH Lord and Christ. (Acts 2:36)
"But after that the kindness and love of God our Saviour toward man appeared ...." (Titus 3:4) We need to begin keeping HIS Word and not denying HIS Name ... (Revelation 3:8-9)
Because "of His own will begat He us with the Word of truth, that we should be a kind of first fruits of His creatures ..." (James 1:18)
The greatest love story ever told. Stand in the offering plate.
From these scriptures, there are those who would present God as three -- and not ONE as the scriptures have taught from the beginning. These ignore the very first commandment given in the old covenant and confirmed again by Jesus in the new testament.
"And one of the scribes came, and having heard them reasoning together, and perceiving that he had answered them well, asked him, "Which is the first commandment of all?" And Jesus answered him, "The first of all the commandments is, "Hear, O Israel; The Lord our God is one Lord" and thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind, and with all thy strength. This is the first commandment. And the second is like, namely this, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself. There is none other commandment greater than these." (Mark 12:28-31; Deuteronomy 6:4)
These also suggest that there will be more than one bridegroom at the wedding feast, and we all know that there is no scripture to support this erroneous teaching. Jesus said, when speaking to the churches in the book of Revelation:
"And to the angel of the church in Philadelphia write; "These things saith He that is holy, He that is true -- "He that hath the key of David, He that openeth, and no man shutteth; and shutteth, and no man openeth. I know thy works. Behold, I have set before thee an open door, and no man can shut it; for thou hast a little strength, and hast kept My Word, and hast not denied My Name ..." (Revelation 3:8-9)
Therefore, it is necessary to recognize that any discussion regarding the Word of God must come from scripture and not longstanding church culture, religious traditions, or erroneous institutional dogma. Why? Because God is NOT the Author of confusion. If we are confused, we are to search the scriptures, for therein, "Lo, the volume of the book is written of Me."
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)
There is only ONE God and in this current dispensation of grace, His Name is Jesus. This is not a change from how God chose to reveal Himself to His people under the old covenant. Rather, herein this testament, God reveals Himself in this only name given under heaven whereby we must be saved. (Acts 4:12; Hebrews 9:15-18) The precious Name of Jesus.
"And for this cause, He is the Mediator of the new testament, that by means of death, for the redemption of the transgressions that were under the first testament, they which are called might receive the promise of eternal inheritance. For where a testament is, there must also of necessity be the death of the testator." (Hebrews 9:15-16)
We understand that there must be a last will and testament in the earthly. Why then is it so difficult to likewise understand that heavenly?
"For then must He often have suffered since the foundation of the world; but now, once in the end of the world hath He appeared to put away sin by the sacrifice of Himself. And, as it is appointed unto men once to die, but after this the judgment, so Christ was once offered to bear the sins of many; and took unto them that look for Him shall He appear the second time without sin unto salvation." (Hebrews 9:26-28)
But not as a second God (or a lesser God) as some teach but as the Alpha and Omega, the first and the last, the beginning AND the ending. Jesus -- King of kings and Lord of lords. (Revelation 1:8, 11) The ONE AND ONLY God who loved us enough to become our Saviour. (Matthew 1:21-23; Titus 3:4-7; John 1:1-18)
So don't be misled by the fine sounding teachings of those who prefer the traditions of men to sound doctrine. (Hebrews 6:1-2; Acts 2:36-47) Because as Peter (standing with the eleven) indicated on the day of Pentecost, this SAME Jesus whom ye have crucified is BOTH LORD AND CHRIST. (Acts 2:36)
Indeed, Jesus told us who He was.
Jesus said, "I and My Father are One." (John 10:30)
After Jesus was taken up, He [Jesus] THROUGH the Holy Ghost gave commandments to the apostles whom He had chosen. (Acts 1:2-3)
Not as a separate being/person but regenerated again to the same Holy Ghost that overshadowed Mary. (Luke 1:35; Titus 3:4-7; Ephesians 4:5-6; I Timothy 3:16)
The Lord Himself came forth as a mighty man. (Isaiah 42:13; Isaiah 9:6)
"He was in the world and the world was made by Him and the world knew Him not. He came unto His own and His own received Him not." (John 1:10-11)
All the fullness of the Godhead dwelt bodily in Him [Jesus]. (Colossians 2:9; I Timothy 3:16)
If there was a trinity in any form -- as many religious teach today, we would worship "them" and not the "Him" that is exalted in His Word. This is why God hath exalted Him -- the Him being the Name of Jesus which is above every other name. (Philippians 2:5-11)
There is only ONE Lord, ONE Faith and ONE Baptism. (Ephesians 4:5-6)
Before the foundation of the world, the same Spirit of the Lord God who created the world had already decided that He Himself must bring salvation to those who are lost. (I Peter 1:18-25) God in Christ. (II Corinthians 5:19; John 20:28; John 1:1-18) God our Saviour. (Galatians 3:17)
Jesus said, "If you had known Me, ye have known My Father also; and from henceforth ye known Him and have seen Him." (John 14:6-10)
This is why we can now receive the Spirit of truth, the Comforter (who is the SAME SPIRIT of Jesus who was in the world) within because we know who He is -- the Holy Ghost. (John 14:26; John 15:26)
As Jesus said, "If you do not believe that I AM HE, then ye shall die in your sins." (John 8:24)
"Before Abraham was, I AM." (John 8:57-59)
This is the reason why the cross was such a contradiction. But the cross was necessary in order for us in these last times to have salvation according to the pleasure of His will, He willingly made the sacrifice.
Jesus said, "And now O Father glorify Thou Me with Thine own self with the glory which I had with Thee BEFORE the world was. I have manifested THY NAME unto the men which Thou gavest Me out of the world: Thine they were, and Thou gavest them Me; and they have kept Thy Word." (John 17:5-6)
Not God in three persons but One God who loved us enough to become as one of us. God manifest in the flesh. (I Timothy 3:16) This is why the first 3,000 souls saved on the day of Pentecost were water baptized in the Name of the Lord Jesus Christ, because there is no other NAME whereby salvation can be obtained. (Acts 2:36-38; Acts 4:12; Acts 10:44-48; Romans 6:3-4; I Peter 3:21-23) These early believers in the gospel of Jesus Christ, when pricked in their hearts recognized that this same Jesus whom ye have crucified is BOTH Lord and Christ. (Acts 2:36)
"But after that the kindness and love of God our Saviour toward man appeared ...." (Titus 3:4) We need to begin keeping HIS Word and not denying HIS Name ... (Revelation 3:8-9)
Because "of His own will begat He us with the Word of truth, that we should be a kind of first fruits of His creatures ..." (James 1:18)
The greatest love story ever told. Stand in the offering plate.
Friday, August 5, 2016
For Another Foundation Can No Man Lay, But On Jesus Christ; He Is The Head of The Church - Part 1460
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 herself testified 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 3,000 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. (Acts 2:36-47)
Ask our Lord God and Saviour to open your eyes for understanding. Stand in the offering plate.
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 herself testified 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 3,000 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. (Acts 2:36-47)
Ask our Lord God and Saviour to open your eyes for understanding. Stand in the offering plate.
Sing Unto Him A New Song; Play Skilfully With A Loud Noise ... For He Hath Put All Things Under His Feet - Part 1459
"Sirs, why do ye these things? We also are men of like passions with you, and preach unto you that ye should turn from these vanities unto the living God, which made heaven, and earth, and the sea, and all things that are therein: who in times past suffered all nations to walk in their own ways. Nevertheless, He left not Himself without witness, in that He did good, and gave us rain from heaven, and fruitful seasons, filling our hearts with food and gladness. And with these sayings, scarce restrained they the people that they had not done sacrifice unto them." (Acts 14:15-18)
And there came hither certain Jews from Antioch and Iconium who persuaded the people, and having stoned Paul, drew him out of the city, supposed he had been dead. Howbeit, as the disciples stood round about him, he rose up, and came into the city, and the next day he departed with Barnabas to Derbe.
Does this mean that because Paul had been stoned, that he and Barnabas consequently chose not to visit those in Lystra and Iconium and Antioch? Not a chance. Indeed, after the two had preached the gospel in Derbe, and taught many, they returned once again to Lystra and Iconium and Antioch, "confirming the souls of the disciples, and exhorting them to continue in the faith, and that we must through much tribulation enter into the kingdom of God. And when they had ordained them elders in every church, and had prayed with fasting, they commended them to the Lord, on whom they believed." (Acts 14:19-23)
In other words, in the midst of much tribulation (including stoning apostle Paul and leaving him for dead) disciples for the Lord were still entering into His fold. Those believers who would continue in the faith, remaining steadfast in the apostolic doctrine, as had been preached on the day of Pentecost, which marked the beginning of the new testament church. (Acts 2:36-47)
People like Barnabas who had seen the grace of God, and were glad, and that with purpose of heart would cleave unto the Lord. (Acts 11:23)
But part of the process in making disciples (as noted in the scriptures) is also setting in order the things that are wanting [lacking] and ordaining elders in every city. (Titus 1:5) Those who fully know the doctrine, manner of life, purpose, faith, long suffering, charity, patience of apostle Paul, and others, who hazarded their lives for the Name of Jesus Christ.
"But continue thou in the things which thou hast learned and hast been assured of, knowing of whom thou hast learned them ... the holy scriptures, which are able to make thee wise unto salvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus. All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness, that the man of God may be perfectly, thoroughly furnished unto all good works." (II Timothy 3:14-17)
It is for this reason that as believers in the gospel of Jesus Christ, we "fight the good fight of faith, lay hold on eternal life, where unto thou art also called, and hast professed a good profession before many witnesses." (I Timothy 6:11-12)
Therefore, study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that need not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the Word of truth, giving diligence so that our calling and election is sure -- "for so an entrance shall be ministered unto you abundantly into the everlasting Kingdom of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ." (II Timothy 2:15; II Peter 1:11)
"Speaking to yourselves in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody in your heart to the Lord. Giving thanks always for all things unto God and the Father in the Name of our Lord Jesus Christ; submitting yourselves one to another in the fear of God." (Ephesians 5:19-21)
Stand in the offering plate.
And there came hither certain Jews from Antioch and Iconium who persuaded the people, and having stoned Paul, drew him out of the city, supposed he had been dead. Howbeit, as the disciples stood round about him, he rose up, and came into the city, and the next day he departed with Barnabas to Derbe.
Does this mean that because Paul had been stoned, that he and Barnabas consequently chose not to visit those in Lystra and Iconium and Antioch? Not a chance. Indeed, after the two had preached the gospel in Derbe, and taught many, they returned once again to Lystra and Iconium and Antioch, "confirming the souls of the disciples, and exhorting them to continue in the faith, and that we must through much tribulation enter into the kingdom of God. And when they had ordained them elders in every church, and had prayed with fasting, they commended them to the Lord, on whom they believed." (Acts 14:19-23)
In other words, in the midst of much tribulation (including stoning apostle Paul and leaving him for dead) disciples for the Lord were still entering into His fold. Those believers who would continue in the faith, remaining steadfast in the apostolic doctrine, as had been preached on the day of Pentecost, which marked the beginning of the new testament church. (Acts 2:36-47)
People like Barnabas who had seen the grace of God, and were glad, and that with purpose of heart would cleave unto the Lord. (Acts 11:23)
But part of the process in making disciples (as noted in the scriptures) is also setting in order the things that are wanting [lacking] and ordaining elders in every city. (Titus 1:5) Those who fully know the doctrine, manner of life, purpose, faith, long suffering, charity, patience of apostle Paul, and others, who hazarded their lives for the Name of Jesus Christ.
"But continue thou in the things which thou hast learned and hast been assured of, knowing of whom thou hast learned them ... the holy scriptures, which are able to make thee wise unto salvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus. All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness, that the man of God may be perfectly, thoroughly furnished unto all good works." (II Timothy 3:14-17)
It is for this reason that as believers in the gospel of Jesus Christ, we "fight the good fight of faith, lay hold on eternal life, where unto thou art also called, and hast professed a good profession before many witnesses." (I Timothy 6:11-12)
Therefore, study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that need not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the Word of truth, giving diligence so that our calling and election is sure -- "for so an entrance shall be ministered unto you abundantly into the everlasting Kingdom of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ." (II Timothy 2:15; II Peter 1:11)
"Speaking to yourselves in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody in your heart to the Lord. Giving thanks always for all things unto God and the Father in the Name of our Lord Jesus Christ; submitting yourselves one to another in the fear of God." (Ephesians 5:19-21)
Stand in the offering plate.
Monday, August 1, 2016
Behold, I lay in Sion a Stumbling Stone and Rock of Offence ... Believe on Jesus, The Lamb of God For He Shall Save His People From Their Sins - Part 1458
"What shall we say then? That the Gentiles which followed not after righteousness have attained to righteousness, even the righteousness which is of faith. But Israel, which followed after the law of righteousness hath not attained to the law of righteousness. Wherefore? Because [they sought it] not by faith, but as it were by the works of the Law. For they stumbled at the stumbling stone. As it is written, "Behold, I lay in Sion a stumbling stone and rock of offence; and whosoever believes on Him shall not be ashamed." (Romans 9:30-33)
"And a stone of stumbling, and a rock of offence, even to them which stumble at the Word, being disobedient: where unto also they were appointed. But ye are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, an holy nation, a peculiar people; that ye should shew forth the praises of Him who hath called you out of darkness into His marvelous light; Which in time past were not a people, but are now the people of God: which had not obtained mercy, but now have obtained mercy." (1 Peter 2:8-10)
"And He shall be for a sanctuary; but for a stone of stumbling and for a rock of offence to both the houses of Israel, for a gin and for a snare to the inhabitants of Jerusalem." (Isaiah 8:14)
In other words, the stumbling stone was Jesus. The rock of offence -- even to them which stumble at the Word (being disobedient, where unto also they were appointed) is the Name of Jesus. Apostle Paul in Romans 4 elaborates:
"What shall we say then that Abraham our father, as pertaining to the flesh, hath found? For if Abraham were justified by works, he hath whereof to glory; but not before God. For what saith the scripture? Abraham believed God, and it was counted unto him for righteousness.
Now to him that works is the reward not reckoned of grace, but of debt. But to him that works not, but believes on Him that justifies the ungodly, his faith is counted for righteousness. Even as David also describes the blessedness of the man, unto whom God imputes righteousness without works, saying, "Blessed are they whose iniquities are forgiven, and whose sins are covered. Blessed is the man to whom the Lord will not impute sin." (Romans 4:1-8)
And then comes the critical question.
"Cometh this blessedness then upon the circumcision only, or upon the uncircumcision also? For we say that faith was reckoned to Abraham for righteousness. How was it then reckoned? When he was in circumcision, or in uncircumcision?" (Romans 4:9-10)
Remember, in the scriptures, the "circumcision" refers to the Israelites originally chosen and set aside for the Lord. To be His people. But these (as described by the prophet Hosea) rejected Him, preferring instead to chase after their own gods, even when God Almighty provided them with the fruits wherein to eat and to drink.
"For their mother hath played the harlot; she that conceived them hath done shamefully; for she said, "I will go after my lovers, that give [me] my bread, and my water, my wool and my flax, mine oil, and my drink ... and she shall follow after her lovers , but she shall not overtake them; and she shall seek them, but shall not find them, then to my first husband; for then was it better with me than now." (Hosea 2:1-7)
In other words, "that thou, Israel play the harlot ..." (Hosea 4:15)
This is why the answer regarding Abraham can only be -- No, "not in circumcision, but in uncircumcision." (Romans 4:10)
"And he received the sign of circumcision, a seal of the righteousness of the faith which he had yet being uncircumcised: that he might be the father of all them that believe, though they be not circumcised; that righteousness might be imputed unto them also. And the father of circumcision to them who are not of the circumcision only, but who also walk in the steps of that faith of our father Abraham, which he had being yet uncircumcised.
For the promise, that he should be the heir of the world, was not to Abraham, or to his seed, through the Law, but through the righteousness of faith. For if they which are of the Law be heirs, faith is made void, and the promise made of none effect. Because the Law works wrath: for where no law is, there is no transgression.
Therefore it is of faith, that it might be by grace; to the end the promise might be sure to all the seed; not to that only which is of the Law, but to that also which is of the faith of Abraham; who is the father of us all. (As it is written, I have made thee a father of many nations,) before Him whom he believed, even God, who quickens the dead, and calls those things which be not as though they were ... who against hope believed in hope, that he might become the father of many nations, according to that which was spoken, "So shall thy seed be." (Romans 4:11-18)
"And being not weak in faith, he considered not his own body now dead, when he was about an hundred years old, neither yet the deadness of Sarah's womb. He staggered not at the promise of God through unbelief; but was strong in faith, giving glory to God; and being fully persuaded that, what He had promised, He was able also to perform. And therefore it was imputed to him for righteousness." (Romans 4:19-21)
Now it was not written for his sake alone, that it was imputed to him, but for us also, to whom it shall be imputed, if we believe on Him that raised up Jesus our Lord from the dead; who was delivered for our offences, and was raised again for our justification." (Romans 4:22-25)
Jesus said to Zacchaeus, "This day is salvation come to this house, for as much as he also is a son of Abraham. For the Son of man is come to seek and to save that which was lost." (Luke 19:9-10)
The Word that was with God and was God was now made flesh. (John 1:1-18) "He was in the world and the world was made by Him and the world knew Him not. He came unto His own and His own received Him not." (John 1:10-11)
Even though God commended His love toward us, in that, while we yet sinners Christ died for us, His chosen people rejected Jesus. (Romans 5:8) But to us who have believed on Jesus by faith, we can joy in God through our Lord Jesus Christ, because by Him we have now received the atonement. (Romans 5:11) We who were not a people have now become His people - those who are dead indeed unto sin, and now alive unto God through Jesus Christ our Lord. (Romans 6:11)
Those who believe in the righteousness of God through faith.
"For God, who commanded the light to shine out of darkness, hath shined in our hearts, to give the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ." (II Corinthians 4:6)
"Now thanks be unto God, which always causes us to triumph in Christ, and makes manifest the savour of His knowledge by us in every place." (II Corinthians 2:15)
His Name is JESUS and He shall save His people from their sins. (Matthew 1:21-23)
This is why we preach Christ crucified, unto the Jews a stumbling block, and unto the Greeks foolishness, but unto them which are called both Jews and Greeks, Christ the power of God, and the wisdom of God. (I Corinthians 1:22-24)
Stand in the offering plate.
"And a stone of stumbling, and a rock of offence, even to them which stumble at the Word, being disobedient: where unto also they were appointed. But ye are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, an holy nation, a peculiar people; that ye should shew forth the praises of Him who hath called you out of darkness into His marvelous light; Which in time past were not a people, but are now the people of God: which had not obtained mercy, but now have obtained mercy." (1 Peter 2:8-10)
"And He shall be for a sanctuary; but for a stone of stumbling and for a rock of offence to both the houses of Israel, for a gin and for a snare to the inhabitants of Jerusalem." (Isaiah 8:14)
In other words, the stumbling stone was Jesus. The rock of offence -- even to them which stumble at the Word (being disobedient, where unto also they were appointed) is the Name of Jesus. Apostle Paul in Romans 4 elaborates:
"What shall we say then that Abraham our father, as pertaining to the flesh, hath found? For if Abraham were justified by works, he hath whereof to glory; but not before God. For what saith the scripture? Abraham believed God, and it was counted unto him for righteousness.
Now to him that works is the reward not reckoned of grace, but of debt. But to him that works not, but believes on Him that justifies the ungodly, his faith is counted for righteousness. Even as David also describes the blessedness of the man, unto whom God imputes righteousness without works, saying, "Blessed are they whose iniquities are forgiven, and whose sins are covered. Blessed is the man to whom the Lord will not impute sin." (Romans 4:1-8)
And then comes the critical question.
"Cometh this blessedness then upon the circumcision only, or upon the uncircumcision also? For we say that faith was reckoned to Abraham for righteousness. How was it then reckoned? When he was in circumcision, or in uncircumcision?" (Romans 4:9-10)
Remember, in the scriptures, the "circumcision" refers to the Israelites originally chosen and set aside for the Lord. To be His people. But these (as described by the prophet Hosea) rejected Him, preferring instead to chase after their own gods, even when God Almighty provided them with the fruits wherein to eat and to drink.
"For their mother hath played the harlot; she that conceived them hath done shamefully; for she said, "I will go after my lovers, that give [me] my bread, and my water, my wool and my flax, mine oil, and my drink ... and she shall follow after her lovers , but she shall not overtake them; and she shall seek them, but shall not find them, then to my first husband; for then was it better with me than now." (Hosea 2:1-7)
In other words, "that thou, Israel play the harlot ..." (Hosea 4:15)
This is why the answer regarding Abraham can only be -- No, "not in circumcision, but in uncircumcision." (Romans 4:10)
"And he received the sign of circumcision, a seal of the righteousness of the faith which he had yet being uncircumcised: that he might be the father of all them that believe, though they be not circumcised; that righteousness might be imputed unto them also. And the father of circumcision to them who are not of the circumcision only, but who also walk in the steps of that faith of our father Abraham, which he had being yet uncircumcised.
For the promise, that he should be the heir of the world, was not to Abraham, or to his seed, through the Law, but through the righteousness of faith. For if they which are of the Law be heirs, faith is made void, and the promise made of none effect. Because the Law works wrath: for where no law is, there is no transgression.
Therefore it is of faith, that it might be by grace; to the end the promise might be sure to all the seed; not to that only which is of the Law, but to that also which is of the faith of Abraham; who is the father of us all. (As it is written, I have made thee a father of many nations,) before Him whom he believed, even God, who quickens the dead, and calls those things which be not as though they were ... who against hope believed in hope, that he might become the father of many nations, according to that which was spoken, "So shall thy seed be." (Romans 4:11-18)
"And being not weak in faith, he considered not his own body now dead, when he was about an hundred years old, neither yet the deadness of Sarah's womb. He staggered not at the promise of God through unbelief; but was strong in faith, giving glory to God; and being fully persuaded that, what He had promised, He was able also to perform. And therefore it was imputed to him for righteousness." (Romans 4:19-21)
Now it was not written for his sake alone, that it was imputed to him, but for us also, to whom it shall be imputed, if we believe on Him that raised up Jesus our Lord from the dead; who was delivered for our offences, and was raised again for our justification." (Romans 4:22-25)
Jesus said to Zacchaeus, "This day is salvation come to this house, for as much as he also is a son of Abraham. For the Son of man is come to seek and to save that which was lost." (Luke 19:9-10)
The Word that was with God and was God was now made flesh. (John 1:1-18) "He was in the world and the world was made by Him and the world knew Him not. He came unto His own and His own received Him not." (John 1:10-11)
Even though God commended His love toward us, in that, while we yet sinners Christ died for us, His chosen people rejected Jesus. (Romans 5:8) But to us who have believed on Jesus by faith, we can joy in God through our Lord Jesus Christ, because by Him we have now received the atonement. (Romans 5:11) We who were not a people have now become His people - those who are dead indeed unto sin, and now alive unto God through Jesus Christ our Lord. (Romans 6:11)
Those who believe in the righteousness of God through faith.
"For God, who commanded the light to shine out of darkness, hath shined in our hearts, to give the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ." (II Corinthians 4:6)
"Now thanks be unto God, which always causes us to triumph in Christ, and makes manifest the savour of His knowledge by us in every place." (II Corinthians 2:15)
His Name is JESUS and He shall save His people from their sins. (Matthew 1:21-23)
This is why we preach Christ crucified, unto the Jews a stumbling block, and unto the Greeks foolishness, but unto them which are called both Jews and Greeks, Christ the power of God, and the wisdom of God. (I Corinthians 1:22-24)
Stand in the offering plate.
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