"And for this cause, He is the mediator of the new testament, that by means of death, for the redemption of the transgression 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. For a testament is of force after men are dead; otherwise, it is of no strength at all while the testator lives. Where upon neither the first [testament] was dedicated without blood." (Hebrews 9:15-18)
The Word made flesh. (John 1:1-18) The Lord coming 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. (John 1:10-11) God manifest in the flesh (I Timothy 3:16) God our Saviour. (Titus 3:4-7)
God who is now attired in a body of sin prone flesh went about delivering a message that the first Adam should have embraced. If Adam had embraced God’s words of instruction, then all of his descendants would have been spared tears, agonies, pains, sickness, and death. But man was in free fall. Not evolving. No sir. Man was descending into a pit.
In the beginning, man was created by God for God. Man without friendly fellowship with God is empty, just like the earth before God took it upon Himself to furnish it. Prior to God stepping in to fill the earth with inhabitants, it is said that the earth was without form and void. In the beginning, Adam was alone in the garden. It was God who observed that Adam was lonely. It was also God who made a companion for Adam, a woman to dwell with him. While man was created in God's image, the woman was made of Adam's own flesh.
Just as in the early days of Adam and Eve, God knows what we have need of even before we ask. He knows our innermost heart desires. Why? Because God is a good God. And within His love and kindness for us, God had/has a plan for each and every one of us. As the scriptures state, eye has not seen, neither has ear heard of the things that God has in store for those who love Him. But within the framework that He Himself purposed from the beginning of the world, we also need to understand God's plan of salvation.
In the beginning, God. (Genesis 1:1) In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God and the Word WAS God. The *SAME was in the beginning with God. All things were made by Him and without Him was not anything made that was made. In Him was life and the life was the light of men." (John 1:1-4) [*Note that the same was in the beginning with God -- not another].
God (who is Spirit) descends into mans’ hopeless situation by preparing a natural body for Himself. This body was to be born of a young virgin girl named Mary. The life that was to indwell that body was not a seed from Adam’s fallen sinful race. The reason for this is that Adam sinned. From this point on, we inherited his fallen nature. "For all have sinned and fallen short of the grace of God."
But the life that was to indwell in Mary's body was to be a life conceived by the Holy Spirit of God. A spiritual life of God Himself clothed as a Son. Jesus - God with us, appearing as a man for indeed. (Matthew 1:21-23) He was a man in all respects. He was born as a man even though Luke (a medical doctor) referred to the fetus in the womb as a "holy thing." (Luke 1:35)
God was going to sacrifice His own sinless body, becoming the perfect sacrifice. By so doing, God is purchasing back to Himself His own creation as if they had never sinned. In other words, one man’s sin condemned us. One man’s righteousness redeems us.
It is in this context that Jesus willingly sacrificed Himself for us. There is no more sacrifice for sin. Our debt has been paid in full. The Gift of God is eternal life. Whosoever will call upon the Name of the Lord Jesus shall be saved. Sin still lies at the door of your life, but because of Jesus blood shed on the cross, we have been given a second chance to choose life. In so doing, God will put your life back on track.
God wants to make a new creation in you. God is going to walk up and down inside of you, in fellowship with you, making you a whole new person. You will be cleansed by the blood of God’s holy Spirit’s blood that flowed in Jesus' veins. His blood was shed for us. It is for this reason that we are free, and that we can stand fast in the liberty wherewith is Christ. (Galatians 5:1)
When one is filled with the Holy Ghost (as per Acts 2) you are now the Temple of God, in which He is pleased to dwell. Christ in You, the hope of glory. The great I AM. The Alpha and Omega, the first and the last, the beginning and the ending. The King of kings and Lord of lords. The One and Only God who became our Saviour. It is no wonder that those who gladly received the Word on the day of Pentecost were also water baptized in the Name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, so that these too could receive the gift of the Holy Ghost. (Acts 2:36-47)
Choose life today. Repent, and be baptized into Jesus death -- buried with Him and resurrected into a new life with Him -- and be filled with His Spirit! Study His Word. Pray with thanksgiving -- without ceasing -- and rejoice evermore.
And may the Lord God our Saviour bless you as you cut the cord once and for all with this fallen adamic sin cursed race, exchanging this world of nothings for His promises -- being then made free from sin, ye becoming the servants of righteousness. 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
Sunday, November 27, 2016
Who Being the Brightness Of His Glory, and The Express Image of His Person, And Upholding All Things By the Word of His Power - Part 1555
"But after the kindness and love of God our Saviour toward man appeared, not by works of righteousness which we have done but according to His mercy He saved us, by the washing of regeneration; and renewing of the Holy Ghost -- which He shed on us abundantly through Jesus Christ our Saviour; that being justified by His grace, we should be made heirs according to the hope of eternal life." (Titus 3:4-7)
God has declared that this same JESUS whom you crucified is both Lord and Christ. (Acts 2:36)
Crucified, though innocent yet bearing our guilt just the same. He Himself who knew no sin becoming the perfect sacrifice for you and I, so that we through His blood shed, might be redeemed.
Raising Himself from death to life for our justification, this same Lord and Christ redeemed us to an abundant life. Peter, along with others was asked a question by Jesus. "Who do men say that I, the son of man is?" The responses differed. However, Peter got it right declaring, "you are the Christ the Son of the Living God."
Jesus replied, saying, "Flesh and blood has not revealed this to you but My Father which is in Heaven. He revealed this to you. Upon this Rock (this pronounced confession) I will build My church [assembly -congregation -temple] and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it." As many as received Him, to them gave He the power (Spirit) enabling them to become the sons of God. Yes. He is the Christ, the Son of the Living God, conceived of the Holy Ghost, condescending into His own created world, clothing Himself in flesh, fashioned like earth’s inhabitants.
He walked, so to speak in our shoes, as a man tempted and tried in all points like we are, yet He was without sin. For greater was He who dwelt within Jesus than he that is in the world (satan). This body of believers are the Jesus people. This is My Church. This Church has a corner stone like all other buildings under construction, but in this case the builder and maker is God. A temple not made with hands. Yes, He Himself is the corner stone. He also selected/elected the necessary required materials for the establishment of that which He envisioned.
As it is written, after the cross, I will return and build again the tabernacle of David which is fallen down. However, this time He prepares for Himself a believing chosen body consisting of living, believing stones ordained of God, and grafted into the tree of life. Jesus, the Lord Himself furnishing this temple of believers to become His permanent body habitation. His bride, the embodiment of God Himself dwelling in His redeemed Son. The bride made up of believers in Jesus by faith who were once lost but now are found -- amazing grace! But I digress.
There is only one body and there is only one Spirit. You are now the natural body of Christ, and of His Spirit have you received His bones and His flesh. To Saul He said, "Saul, Saul. Why are you persecuting me?" Who was Saul/Paul persecuting? His church. Of His Spirit have all believers received. Jesus said, "I will not leave you comfortless. I will come to you." This explains why He inhabits us. And why He will never forsake us.
He has given to us His Word. We are to go into all the world and preach His Word. The good news gospel of the Lord Jesus Christ to all the world, which is the greatest love story ever told. After His kindness ...
And in so doing, whosoever sins we remit, they are remitted. Whosoever sins we retain, they are retained.
How indebted we are to those who have never heard. We have retained their sins having never granted to them the opportunity to accept so great and so free - God's gift of salvation. It is within this context that we diligently deliver the wholesome words of life, thereby enabling faith to be expressed toward Jesus, and allowing others to receive remission of sin from Him who alone has suffered, bled and died. He, granting freely the gift of eternal life.
For this gift is not obtained by works. It cannot be purchased. Delivered and administered to us by our great High Priest, whose ministry is intransmissible. He sacrificed Himself once and once for all on the cross for you and I. He shed His precious blood so that we might have life eternal in Him.
He was once offered with that one sacrifice and Heaven’s door flew open. With arms wide open, He’ll pardon you. That sacrificial life, in God’s eyes were as if it had occurred today. That is why the Scriptures state - He ever lives to make intercession for us. Recall that there is only one mediator between God and man.
"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." (Hebrews 9:15)
So Christ was once offered to bear the sins of many; and unto them that look for Him shall He appear the second time without sin unto salvation. Peace in Jesus name. Stand in the offering plate.
God has declared that this same JESUS whom you crucified is both Lord and Christ. (Acts 2:36)
Crucified, though innocent yet bearing our guilt just the same. He Himself who knew no sin becoming the perfect sacrifice for you and I, so that we through His blood shed, might be redeemed.
Raising Himself from death to life for our justification, this same Lord and Christ redeemed us to an abundant life. Peter, along with others was asked a question by Jesus. "Who do men say that I, the son of man is?" The responses differed. However, Peter got it right declaring, "you are the Christ the Son of the Living God."
Jesus replied, saying, "Flesh and blood has not revealed this to you but My Father which is in Heaven. He revealed this to you. Upon this Rock (this pronounced confession) I will build My church [assembly -congregation -temple] and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it." As many as received Him, to them gave He the power (Spirit) enabling them to become the sons of God. Yes. He is the Christ, the Son of the Living God, conceived of the Holy Ghost, condescending into His own created world, clothing Himself in flesh, fashioned like earth’s inhabitants.
He walked, so to speak in our shoes, as a man tempted and tried in all points like we are, yet He was without sin. For greater was He who dwelt within Jesus than he that is in the world (satan). This body of believers are the Jesus people. This is My Church. This Church has a corner stone like all other buildings under construction, but in this case the builder and maker is God. A temple not made with hands. Yes, He Himself is the corner stone. He also selected/elected the necessary required materials for the establishment of that which He envisioned.
As it is written, after the cross, I will return and build again the tabernacle of David which is fallen down. However, this time He prepares for Himself a believing chosen body consisting of living, believing stones ordained of God, and grafted into the tree of life. Jesus, the Lord Himself furnishing this temple of believers to become His permanent body habitation. His bride, the embodiment of God Himself dwelling in His redeemed Son. The bride made up of believers in Jesus by faith who were once lost but now are found -- amazing grace! But I digress.
There is only one body and there is only one Spirit. You are now the natural body of Christ, and of His Spirit have you received His bones and His flesh. To Saul He said, "Saul, Saul. Why are you persecuting me?" Who was Saul/Paul persecuting? His church. Of His Spirit have all believers received. Jesus said, "I will not leave you comfortless. I will come to you." This explains why He inhabits us. And why He will never forsake us.
He has given to us His Word. We are to go into all the world and preach His Word. The good news gospel of the Lord Jesus Christ to all the world, which is the greatest love story ever told. After His kindness ...
And in so doing, whosoever sins we remit, they are remitted. Whosoever sins we retain, they are retained.
How indebted we are to those who have never heard. We have retained their sins having never granted to them the opportunity to accept so great and so free - God's gift of salvation. It is within this context that we diligently deliver the wholesome words of life, thereby enabling faith to be expressed toward Jesus, and allowing others to receive remission of sin from Him who alone has suffered, bled and died. He, granting freely the gift of eternal life.
For this gift is not obtained by works. It cannot be purchased. Delivered and administered to us by our great High Priest, whose ministry is intransmissible. He sacrificed Himself once and once for all on the cross for you and I. He shed His precious blood so that we might have life eternal in Him.
He was once offered with that one sacrifice and Heaven’s door flew open. With arms wide open, He’ll pardon you. That sacrificial life, in God’s eyes were as if it had occurred today. That is why the Scriptures state - He ever lives to make intercession for us. Recall that there is only one mediator between God and man.
"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." (Hebrews 9:15)
So Christ was once offered to bear the sins of many; and unto them that look for Him shall He appear the second time without sin unto salvation. Peace in Jesus name. Stand in the offering plate.
Who Gave Himself For Us That He Might Redeem Us From All Iniquity, And Purify Unto Himself A Peculiar People, Zealous of Good Works - Part 1554
"For this cause also thank we God without ceasing, because, when ye received the Word of God which ye heard of us, ye received it not as the word of men, but it is in truth, the Word of God, which effectually works also in you that believe." (I Thessalonians 2:13)
In the last days, we were warned about the devil running to and fro, seeking to devour those who he could, before that fearful and dreadful day of the coming of the Lord. Indeed, we are seeing it all around us -- wherein our society like that of Paul and Silvanus and Timotheus is "forbidding us to speak to the Gentiles that they might be saved ..." (I Thessalonians 2:16)
This is why we need to study the scriptures, to show ourselves approved unto God, a workman that needs not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the Word of truth. (II Timothy 2:15) The word study oft likened to hasten or being diligent so that the foundation on which we stand -- the foundation of God standa sure, having this seal -- "The Lord knows them that are His." (II Timothy 2:19)
This is why the apostles beseech us by the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ, and by our gathering together unto Him that we be not soon shaken in mind, or be troubled, neither by spirit, nor by word, nor by letter as from us, as that the day of Christ is at hand. In other words, let no man deceive you by any means [for that day shall not come] except there come a falling away first, and that man of sin be revealed, the son of perdition -- who opposes and exalts himself above all that is called God, or that is worshiped, so that he as God sits in the temple of God, shewing himself to all that would believe him that he may be God.
But he is not God. Even though the mystery of iniquity doth already work in the world, and we know the Wicked will be revealed (whom the Lord shall consume with the Spirit of His mouth, and shall destroy with the brightness of His coming) we can be confident because God hath from the very beginning chosen you to salvation through sanctification of the Spirit and belief of the truth, where unto He called you by our gospel, to the obtaining of the glory of our Lord Jesus Christ. (II Thessalonians 2:-8, 13-14)
Therefore, do not be tossed to and fro from every wind of doctrine that seeks to move you away from the Rock which was and is Christ. Rather, stand fast and hold the traditions which ye have been taught, whether by word or our epistle, and allow our Lord Jesus Christ Himself, and God (even our Father) which hath loved us, and hath given [us] everlasting consolation and good hope through grace comfort your hearts, and stablish you in every good word and work. (II Thessalonians 2:15-17)
And pray also (as did the apostles) that the Word of the Lord may have free course, and be glorified, even as it is with you.
Stand in the offering plate.
In the last days, we were warned about the devil running to and fro, seeking to devour those who he could, before that fearful and dreadful day of the coming of the Lord. Indeed, we are seeing it all around us -- wherein our society like that of Paul and Silvanus and Timotheus is "forbidding us to speak to the Gentiles that they might be saved ..." (I Thessalonians 2:16)
This is why we need to study the scriptures, to show ourselves approved unto God, a workman that needs not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the Word of truth. (II Timothy 2:15) The word study oft likened to hasten or being diligent so that the foundation on which we stand -- the foundation of God standa sure, having this seal -- "The Lord knows them that are His." (II Timothy 2:19)
This is why the apostles beseech us by the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ, and by our gathering together unto Him that we be not soon shaken in mind, or be troubled, neither by spirit, nor by word, nor by letter as from us, as that the day of Christ is at hand. In other words, let no man deceive you by any means [for that day shall not come] except there come a falling away first, and that man of sin be revealed, the son of perdition -- who opposes and exalts himself above all that is called God, or that is worshiped, so that he as God sits in the temple of God, shewing himself to all that would believe him that he may be God.
But he is not God. Even though the mystery of iniquity doth already work in the world, and we know the Wicked will be revealed (whom the Lord shall consume with the Spirit of His mouth, and shall destroy with the brightness of His coming) we can be confident because God hath from the very beginning chosen you to salvation through sanctification of the Spirit and belief of the truth, where unto He called you by our gospel, to the obtaining of the glory of our Lord Jesus Christ. (II Thessalonians 2:-8, 13-14)
Therefore, do not be tossed to and fro from every wind of doctrine that seeks to move you away from the Rock which was and is Christ. Rather, stand fast and hold the traditions which ye have been taught, whether by word or our epistle, and allow our Lord Jesus Christ Himself, and God (even our Father) which hath loved us, and hath given [us] everlasting consolation and good hope through grace comfort your hearts, and stablish you in every good word and work. (II Thessalonians 2:15-17)
And pray also (as did the apostles) that the Word of the Lord may have free course, and be glorified, even as it is with you.
Stand in the offering plate.
One Body Of Christ ... That There Should Be No Schism In the Body - Part 1553
"For as the body is one, and hath many members, and all the members of that one body, being many, are one body: so also is Christ. For by one Spirit are we all baptized into ONE body, whether we be Jews or Gentiles, whether we be bond or free; and have been all made to drink into one Spirit. For the body is not one member, but many.
If the foot shall say, "Because I am not the hand, I am not of the body; is it therefore not of the body?" And if the ear shall say, "Because I am not the eye, I am not of the body; is it therefore not of the body?" If the whole body were an eye, where were the hearing? If the whole were hearing, where were the smelling? But now hath God set the members every one of them in the body, as it hath pleased Him.
And if they were all one member, where were the body? But now are they many members, yet but ONE body. And the eye cannot say unto the hand, "I have no need of thee: nor again the head to the feet, I have no need of you." Nay, much more those members of the body, which seem to be more feeble, are necessary: and those members of the body, which we think to be less honourable, upon these we bestow more abundant honour; and our uncomely parts have more abundant comeliness.
For our comely parts have no need: but God hath tempered the body together, having given more abundant honour to that part which lacked. That there should be no schism in the body; but that the members should have the same care one for another. And whether one member suffer, all the members suffer with it; or one member be honoured, all the members rejoice with it. Now ye are the body of Christ, and members in particular." (I Corinthians 12:12-27)
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. The prophesied Christ. Does Mary intercede on our behalf? Again, no. Mary said that her spirit rejoiced in "God her Saviour." (Luke 1: 46-47) 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 water 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 Christ -- according to Acts 2:36-47!
It is the same when, during communion, countless congregations of people are told that the wafer or bread and the wine are miraculously transformed into the blood and body of Christ. Would I be committing an unforgivable sin if I participate? We would if we did not acknowledge that Jesus sacrificed Himself once and for all so that we could be saved. As such, there is no longer a need for churches to offer a repeat performance. Jesus made the sacrifice. And it was Jesus Himself that said on the cross -- "It is finished."
The sacrificial death of Jesus is present tense.
Moreover, there is only ONE high priest. That is Jesus, who is a high priest forever after the order of Melchisedec. Is the new testament a continuation of the old covenant? No. The new testament is a testament between one party. This one relationship is between God who is Spirit and between God Himself as a Son. Grace testament. Whereas the old covenant was between two parties -- a covenant of life and death -- the new testament is about grace! This is why the scriptures ask new believers to search the scriptures so that they will know and understand the plan of salvation.
What were the first believers told to do? The first 3000 people who believed in Jesus repented and were baptized into the name of Jesus for the forgiveness of sin, and as a consequence, received the gift of the Holy Ghost. For further insight on the apostles' and the doctrine that Jesus taught, please read through Acts chapter two.
Note as well that those who heard Peter preaching the gospel (standing with the eleven on the day of Pentecost told those listening that this SAME Christ which ye have crucified is BOTH LORD AND CHRIST. It is no wonder that they were pricked in their heart. If you are pricked in your heart today, please ask our Lord God and Saviour Jesus the Christ to open your eyes for understanding.
Stand in the offering plate.
If the foot shall say, "Because I am not the hand, I am not of the body; is it therefore not of the body?" And if the ear shall say, "Because I am not the eye, I am not of the body; is it therefore not of the body?" If the whole body were an eye, where were the hearing? If the whole were hearing, where were the smelling? But now hath God set the members every one of them in the body, as it hath pleased Him.
And if they were all one member, where were the body? But now are they many members, yet but ONE body. And the eye cannot say unto the hand, "I have no need of thee: nor again the head to the feet, I have no need of you." Nay, much more those members of the body, which seem to be more feeble, are necessary: and those members of the body, which we think to be less honourable, upon these we bestow more abundant honour; and our uncomely parts have more abundant comeliness.
For our comely parts have no need: but God hath tempered the body together, having given more abundant honour to that part which lacked. That there should be no schism in the body; but that the members should have the same care one for another. And whether one member suffer, all the members suffer with it; or one member be honoured, all the members rejoice with it. Now ye are the body of Christ, and members in particular." (I Corinthians 12:12-27)
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. The prophesied Christ. Does Mary intercede on our behalf? Again, no. Mary said that her spirit rejoiced in "God her Saviour." (Luke 1: 46-47) 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 water 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 Christ -- according to Acts 2:36-47!
It is the same when, during communion, countless congregations of people are told that the wafer or bread and the wine are miraculously transformed into the blood and body of Christ. Would I be committing an unforgivable sin if I participate? We would if we did not acknowledge that Jesus sacrificed Himself once and for all so that we could be saved. As such, there is no longer a need for churches to offer a repeat performance. Jesus made the sacrifice. And it was Jesus Himself that said on the cross -- "It is finished."
The sacrificial death of Jesus is present tense.
Moreover, there is only ONE high priest. That is Jesus, who is a high priest forever after the order of Melchisedec. Is the new testament a continuation of the old covenant? No. The new testament is a testament between one party. This one relationship is between God who is Spirit and between God Himself as a Son. Grace testament. Whereas the old covenant was between two parties -- a covenant of life and death -- the new testament is about grace! This is why the scriptures ask new believers to search the scriptures so that they will know and understand the plan of salvation.
What were the first believers told to do? The first 3000 people who believed in Jesus repented and were baptized into the name of Jesus for the forgiveness of sin, and as a consequence, received the gift of the Holy Ghost. For further insight on the apostles' and the doctrine that Jesus taught, please read through Acts chapter two.
Note as well that those who heard Peter preaching the gospel (standing with the eleven on the day of Pentecost told those listening that this SAME Christ which ye have crucified is BOTH LORD AND CHRIST. It is no wonder that they were pricked in their heart. If you are pricked in your heart today, please ask our Lord God and Saviour Jesus the Christ to open your eyes for understanding.
Stand in the offering plate.
Sealed By His Spirit So That Ye Might Be Filled With the Knowledge Of His Will In All Wisdom And Spiritual Understanding -- Part 1552
"Since we heard of your faith in Christ Jesus, and of the love which ye have to all the saints ... for the hope which is laid up for you in heaven, whereof ye heard before in the Word of the truth of the gospel, which is come unto you, as it is in all the world; and brings forth fruit, as it doth also in you, since the day ye heard [of it] and knew the grace of God in truth!" (Colossians 1:1-6)
Sadly, too many desire the "earthly food" that fills the belly over the spiritual manna that fills the soul. Remember, what happened after Jesus fed the five thousand with the young boy's five barley loaves and two small fishes? When the people were filled, Jesus said unto His disciples, "Gather up the fragments that remain, that nothing be lost." This the disciples did filling twelve baskets with the fragments of loaves, which remained over and above unto them that had eaten.
When they had seen the miracle that Jesus did, the men said, "This is of a truth that prophet that should come into the world." (John 6:14) One would assume that their hearts would be filled with gladness.
However, when Jesus therefore perceived that they would come and take Him by force -- to make Jesus a King -- He departed again into a mountain Himself alone. The day following, those that had eaten went looking for Jesus, seeking Him. When they found Jesus, these men asked, "Rabbi, when camest Thou hither?" Remember, these were the very same men who had seen the miracle that Jesus did and said, "This is of a truth that prophet that should come into the world." (John 6:1-25)
What did Jesus say to them?
"Verily, verily, I say unto you -- ye seek Me not because ye see the miracles but because ye did eat of the loaves and were filled." (John 6:26) In other words, these were amazed by the signs and wonders that Jesus did, but not quite enough to follow Jesus. These were content that their bellies were filled, but did not desire the same outcome for their soul.
So, Jesus knowing their hearts says unto them, "Labour not for the meat which perishes, but for that meat which endures unto everlasting life, which the Son of man shall give unto you: for Him hath God the Father sealed." (John 6:27; Matthew 6:19; Acts 2:22)
The conversation continues, with these men then asking Jesus -- "What shall we do, that we might work the works of God?" Jesus answered and said unto them, "This is the work of God, that ye believe on Him whom He hath sent." This is when these asked Jesus for a sign. They said, "Our fathers did eat manna in the desert; as it is written, He gave them bread from heaven to eat." Then Jesus said, "Verily, verily, I say unto you, Moses gave you not that bread from heaven; but My Father gives you the true bread from heaven. For the bread of God is He which comes down from heaven, and gives life unto the world." (John 6:32-33)
Jesus goes on to tell them that He is the bread of life. That He is the bread that came from heaven to give life unto the world. That here He was, the Lord of glory standing in front of them but they believed not. Even though these had seen Jesus, heard His teachings, and witnessed His miracles, they were not convinced enough in their heart to believe. (John 6:36; John 6:26, 64)
Indeed, these did not believe the works that Jesus did had been done "in My Father's Name" or that "they bear witness of Me." (John 10:26)
We see quite the contrast when Jesus conveys the same gospel message to the woman from Samaria. She had come to collect water at the well that day, and there is Jesus. After some dialogue, Jesus says to the woman -- "Whosoever drinks of this water shall thirst again: but whosoever drinks of the water that I shall give Him shall never thirst; but the water that I shall give him shall be in him a well of water springing up into everlasting life." (John 4:13-14)
Herein, the woman's heart desired to know more. She said, "I know that Messias comes, which is called Christ; when He is come, He will tell us all things." (John 4:25-26) When Jesus responded, saying, "I that speak unto thee am He," - the prophesied Christ, she willingly went to tell those in the city of Samaria of the man "which told me all the things ever I did." (John 4:15- 44)
Two very different responses when it came to Jesus. What was the difference?
On the one hand, there were those like the woman at the well who heard Jesus of Nazareth with their heart. Conversely, those who were miraculously fed rejected the One and Only Lord. As Peter (standing with the eleven on the day of Pentecost proclaimed -- "a man approved of God among you by miracles and wonders and signs, which God did by Him in the midst of you, as ye yourselves also know Him, being delivered by the determinate counsel and foreknowledge of God ... ye have taken and by wicked hands have crucified and slain; whom God hath raised up, having loosed the pains of death; because it was not possible that it should be holden of it." (Acts 2:22-23)
Choose life. Choose death.
Choose Jesus who is both Lord and Christ. (Acts 2:36) Repent and be water baptized [buried] in the Name of the Lord Jesus Christ for the remission of sins and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost. (Acts 2:38-47)
And when you do, "the eyes of your understanding" will be enlightened; "that ye may know what is the hope of His calling, and what the riches of the glory of His inheritance in the saints, and what is the exceeding greatness of His power to us-ward who believe according to the working of His mighty power -- which He wrought in Christ, when He raised Him from the dead, and set [Him] at His own right hand in the heavenly [places]." (Ephesians 1: 18-23)
Jesus -- the giver of life and salvation. Be filled/sealed by His Spirit. Stand in the offering plate.
Sadly, too many desire the "earthly food" that fills the belly over the spiritual manna that fills the soul. Remember, what happened after Jesus fed the five thousand with the young boy's five barley loaves and two small fishes? When the people were filled, Jesus said unto His disciples, "Gather up the fragments that remain, that nothing be lost." This the disciples did filling twelve baskets with the fragments of loaves, which remained over and above unto them that had eaten.
When they had seen the miracle that Jesus did, the men said, "This is of a truth that prophet that should come into the world." (John 6:14) One would assume that their hearts would be filled with gladness.
However, when Jesus therefore perceived that they would come and take Him by force -- to make Jesus a King -- He departed again into a mountain Himself alone. The day following, those that had eaten went looking for Jesus, seeking Him. When they found Jesus, these men asked, "Rabbi, when camest Thou hither?" Remember, these were the very same men who had seen the miracle that Jesus did and said, "This is of a truth that prophet that should come into the world." (John 6:1-25)
What did Jesus say to them?
"Verily, verily, I say unto you -- ye seek Me not because ye see the miracles but because ye did eat of the loaves and were filled." (John 6:26) In other words, these were amazed by the signs and wonders that Jesus did, but not quite enough to follow Jesus. These were content that their bellies were filled, but did not desire the same outcome for their soul.
So, Jesus knowing their hearts says unto them, "Labour not for the meat which perishes, but for that meat which endures unto everlasting life, which the Son of man shall give unto you: for Him hath God the Father sealed." (John 6:27; Matthew 6:19; Acts 2:22)
The conversation continues, with these men then asking Jesus -- "What shall we do, that we might work the works of God?" Jesus answered and said unto them, "This is the work of God, that ye believe on Him whom He hath sent." This is when these asked Jesus for a sign. They said, "Our fathers did eat manna in the desert; as it is written, He gave them bread from heaven to eat." Then Jesus said, "Verily, verily, I say unto you, Moses gave you not that bread from heaven; but My Father gives you the true bread from heaven. For the bread of God is He which comes down from heaven, and gives life unto the world." (John 6:32-33)
Jesus goes on to tell them that He is the bread of life. That He is the bread that came from heaven to give life unto the world. That here He was, the Lord of glory standing in front of them but they believed not. Even though these had seen Jesus, heard His teachings, and witnessed His miracles, they were not convinced enough in their heart to believe. (John 6:36; John 6:26, 64)
Indeed, these did not believe the works that Jesus did had been done "in My Father's Name" or that "they bear witness of Me." (John 10:26)
We see quite the contrast when Jesus conveys the same gospel message to the woman from Samaria. She had come to collect water at the well that day, and there is Jesus. After some dialogue, Jesus says to the woman -- "Whosoever drinks of this water shall thirst again: but whosoever drinks of the water that I shall give Him shall never thirst; but the water that I shall give him shall be in him a well of water springing up into everlasting life." (John 4:13-14)
Herein, the woman's heart desired to know more. She said, "I know that Messias comes, which is called Christ; when He is come, He will tell us all things." (John 4:25-26) When Jesus responded, saying, "I that speak unto thee am He," - the prophesied Christ, she willingly went to tell those in the city of Samaria of the man "which told me all the things ever I did." (John 4:15- 44)
Two very different responses when it came to Jesus. What was the difference?
On the one hand, there were those like the woman at the well who heard Jesus of Nazareth with their heart. Conversely, those who were miraculously fed rejected the One and Only Lord. As Peter (standing with the eleven on the day of Pentecost proclaimed -- "a man approved of God among you by miracles and wonders and signs, which God did by Him in the midst of you, as ye yourselves also know Him, being delivered by the determinate counsel and foreknowledge of God ... ye have taken and by wicked hands have crucified and slain; whom God hath raised up, having loosed the pains of death; because it was not possible that it should be holden of it." (Acts 2:22-23)
Choose life. Choose death.
Choose Jesus who is both Lord and Christ. (Acts 2:36) Repent and be water baptized [buried] in the Name of the Lord Jesus Christ for the remission of sins and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost. (Acts 2:38-47)
And when you do, "the eyes of your understanding" will be enlightened; "that ye may know what is the hope of His calling, and what the riches of the glory of His inheritance in the saints, and what is the exceeding greatness of His power to us-ward who believe according to the working of His mighty power -- which He wrought in Christ, when He raised Him from the dead, and set [Him] at His own right hand in the heavenly [places]." (Ephesians 1: 18-23)
Jesus -- the giver of life and salvation. Be filled/sealed by His Spirit. Stand in the offering plate.
Friday, November 25, 2016
Why Are Ye So Fearful ... Rather, Be of Good Cheer - Part 1551
"According to your faith be it unto you." (Matthew 9:29)
Everywhere we look these days, there is distress and chaos in the world. Even those who attempt to make the world a better place are seeing the emerging civil unrest all around. People downtrodden, even when they try to do what is right and just and true. And, as Jesus foretold, we see men's hearts failing them because of fear. But Jesus did not come to make us fearful, but rather, to fill us with His peace and joy - that surpasses all human understanding.
This is why we as believers in Jesus by faith can be different from the world, because we understand that what was prophesied from afore has to come to fruition before that day that our blessed Lord and Saviour appears. Therefore, as Jesus said to His disciples, "Be of good cheer!"
Jesus also said, "Verily I say unto you -- If ye have faith, and doubt not, ye shall not only do this which is done to the fig tree, but also if ye shall say unto this mountain, Be thou removed, and be thou cast into the sea; it shall be done." (Matthew 21:21)
Too often we miss what the Lord Jesus has appointed just for us -- because of the encroaching day to day. We drink the koolaid of this world without fully understanding that Jesus -- who is both Lord and Christ, Almighty God manifest in the flesh -- has a unique purpose for each and every one of us. And His desire for us is to say, "Well done, thou good and faithful servant: thou hast been faithful over a few things, I will make thee ruler over many things: enter thou into the joy of thy Lord." (Matthew 25:21, 23, 45)
As such, we need to desire more of Jesus. And, as a consequence, we need to "press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus." (Philippians 3:14)
Therefore, instead of focusing on the tomorrows that have yet to come -- and lingering for far too long in the "O ye of little faith" mode -- we need to be like the man sick of palsy, lying on a bed, whose faith along with the faith of his friends knew that Jesus is the redeemer, the healer, the Comforter, the Bread of Life. That Jesus is the Alpha and Omega, the first and the last, beginning and the ending of all things. (Matthew 6:30; Revelation 1:8, 11)
"And, behold, they brought to him a man sick of the palsy, lying on a bed: and Jesus seeing their faith said unto the sick of the palsy; Son, be of good cheer; thy sins be forgiven thee." (Matthew 9:2)
We need to press into the One and Only Lord Jesus who commanded the winds to stop, and the sea to settle. For He alone is our hope. From Him comes our salvation.
Thus, instead of hearing Jesus say, "Why are ye so fearful? how is it that ye have no faith?" or "O thou of little faith, wherefore didst thou doubt?" we need to rise to the occasion wherein we were called. (Mark 4:4; Matthew 14:31)
That is, the just shall live by faith, for therein is the righteousness of God revealed. (Romans 1:17; Habakkuk 2:4; Hebrews 10:28)
"But that no man is justified by the law in the sight of God, it is evident: for, The just shall live by faith." (Galatians 3:11) For when we walk by faith and not by sight, we can be confident in His goodness and grace and mercy, that our life here on earth has purpose. And it begins with stepping out in faith and believing in Jesus the Christ, who willingly shed His precious blood on the cross for you and I.
To this end, I include an account of the old covenant faithful in Hebrews 11, who require us in this current dispensation of grace to stand in the offering plate for Jesus -- with all our heart, soul, mind, and strength, so that these faithful with us who have received the promise should be made perfect. Hebrews 11 ....
"Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen. For by it the elders obtained a good report. 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.
By faith Abel offered unto God a more excellent sacrifice than Cain, by which he obtained witness that he was righteous, God testifying of his gifts: and by it he being dead yet speaks.
By faith Enoch was translated that he should not see death; and was not found, because God had translated him: for before his translation he had this testimony, that he pleased God. But without faith it is impossible to please Him: for he that comes to God must believe that He is, and that He is a rewarder of them that diligently seek Him.
By faith Noah, being warned of God of things not seen as yet, moved with fear, prepared an ark to the saving of his house; by the which he condemned the world, and became heir of the righteousness which is by faith.
By faith Abraham, when he was called to go out into a place which he should after receive for an inheritance, obeyed; and he went out, not knowing whither he went. By faith he sojourned in the land of promise, as in a strange country, dwelling in tabernacles with Isaac and Jacob, the heirs with him of the same promise: for he looked for a city which hath foundations, whose builder and maker is God.
Through faith also Sara herself received strength to conceive seed, and was delivered of a child when she was past age, because she judged Him faithful who had promised. Therefore sprang there even of one, and him as good as dead, so many as the stars of the sky in multitude, and as the sand which is by the sea shore innumerable.
These all died in faith, not having received the promises, but having seen them afar off, and were persuaded of them, and embraced them, and confessed that they were strangers and pilgrims on the earth. For they that say such things declare plainly that they seek a country. And truly, if they had been mindful of that country from whence they came out, they might have had opportunity to have returned ... But now they desire a better country, that is, an heavenly: wherefore God is not ashamed to be called their God: for He hath prepared for them a city.
By faith Abraham, when he was tried, offered up Isaac: and He that had received the promises offered up His only begotten son, of whom it was said, "That in Isaac shall Thy seed be called" accounting that God was able to raise Him up, even from the dead; from whence also He received Him in a figure.
By faith Isaac blessed Jacob and Esau concerning things to come. By faith Jacob, when he was a dying, blessed both the sons of Joseph; and worshipped, leaning upon the top of his staff. By faith Joseph, when he died, made mention of the departing of the children of Israel; and gave commandment concerning his bones.
By faith Moses, when he was born, was hid three months of his parents, because they saw he was a proper child; and they were not afraid of the king's commandment. By faith Moses, when he was come to years, refused to be called the son of Pharaoh's daughter; choosing rather to suffer affliction with the people of God, than to enjoy the pleasures of sin for a season; esteeming the reproach of Christ greater riches than the treasures in Egypt: for he had respect unto the recompence of the reward.
By faith he forsook Egypt, not fearing the wrath of the king: for he endured, as seeing Him who is invisible through faith he kept the passover, and the sprinkling of blood, lest He that destroyed the firstborn should touch them. By faith they passed through the Red sea as by dry land: which the Egyptians assaying to do were drowned.
By faith the walls of Jericho fell down, after they were compassed about seven days.
By faith the harlot Rahab perished not with them that believed not, when she had received the spies with peace.
And what shall I more say? for the time would fail me to tell of Gedeon, and of Barak, and of Samson, and of Jephthae; of David also, and Samuel, and of the prophets: who through faith subdued kingdoms, wrought righteousness, obtained promises, stopped the mouths of lions. Quenched the violence of fire, escaped the edge of the sword, out of weakness were made strong, waxed valiant in fight, turned to flight the armies of the aliens.
Women received their dead raised to life again: and others were tortured, not accepting deliverance; that they might obtain a better resurrection: and others had trial of cruel mockings and scourgings, yea, moreover of bonds and imprisonment:
They were stoned, they were sawn asunder, were tempted, were slain with the sword: they wandered about in sheepskins and goatskins; being destitute, afflicted, tormented; (of whom the world was not worthy:) they wandered in deserts, and in mountains, and in dens and caves of the earth and these all, having obtained a good report through faith, received not the promise -- God having provided some better thing for us, that they without us should not be made perfect ..."
Thursday, November 24, 2016
All Scripture is Given by Inspiration of God, and is Profitable For Doctrine, For Reproof, For Correction, For Instruction in Righteousness - Part 1550
"Stand fast in the liberty wherein is Christ ..." (Galatians 5:1)
The law of the Spirit of Life has made me free from the law of sin and death. The law of the Spirit of Life is revealed in the New Testament whereas the law of sin and death is found in the Old Covenant. Moses presented the Old Covenant and similarly, Moses was faithful in his delivery. In this capacity, Moses was a servant of God fulfilling his appointed ministry.
The Law of the Spirit of Life was delivered by God Himself -- as a Son.
Yes, God Himself was manifest in the flesh as a Son. I Timothy 3:16 states: "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."
As also stated in the scriptures, in the Son did dwell ALL the fullness of the Godhead bodily. (Colossians 2:9) JESUS being the manifestation of God in the flesh. God being found in fashion as a Son. God being in Christ did not think it robbery to be equal with God who is Spirit. For they indeed are ONE and the same.
Not two persons as the modern day religious culture would have us believe. Indeed, God purposely veiled Himself in flesh in an endeavour to reveal Himself to mankind - to you and I that He is pure, holy, loving, long suffering, compassionate and merciful. That He Himself is the Author of love!
Indeed, JESUS was the life of God! No man has seen God at any time so God revealed Himself in the same fashion even as we are. JESUS saying to His disciples, that if you have seen Me then you have seen the Father. (John 14:6-12) Jesus said, "I and My Father are ONE!" (John 10:30) He that has the Son receives the Father also.
Surely natural life dictates that this is so. For if you naturally look at me - Bill - I am a son - I am also a father in a son's body and also the one who is speaking now Bill as the spirit, having my life in Bill the same son's body. I am not three distinct and separate persons. I am one person. And likewise, neither are you three persons.
Moreover, I am one, and I have only one given name. That name is not father nor son nor spirit but rather my name is Bill.
So from whence comes the problem? The difficulty is that the church fathers messed things up, and as a result of their ignorance (willingly or otherwise) they have led multitudes of people into error. They have left aside the Word of God and are entrenched in teaching error. Read the scriptures for yourself. JESUS said, "My Word is Spirit and it is Life!" The entrance of My Word brings forth life. Indeed, you shall know the truth, and upon knowing these truths, these truths shall set you free.
Spirit Life then is bounded by a law. That Law is that believers continue in the Word spoken and delivered to mankind by the Lord God Himself. After His kindness and love, God willingly became our Saviour. (Titus 3:4-7)
Continue in HIS Word today! Remain steadfast in the apostle's doctrine (Acts 2:36-47) That way you will not be tossed to and fro because you will be standing on the Rock -- the Rock that is Jesus.
Stand in the offering plate!
(Written by William McKendrick)
The law of the Spirit of Life has made me free from the law of sin and death. The law of the Spirit of Life is revealed in the New Testament whereas the law of sin and death is found in the Old Covenant. Moses presented the Old Covenant and similarly, Moses was faithful in his delivery. In this capacity, Moses was a servant of God fulfilling his appointed ministry.
The Law of the Spirit of Life was delivered by God Himself -- as a Son.
Yes, God Himself was manifest in the flesh as a Son. I Timothy 3:16 states: "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."
As also stated in the scriptures, in the Son did dwell ALL the fullness of the Godhead bodily. (Colossians 2:9) JESUS being the manifestation of God in the flesh. God being found in fashion as a Son. God being in Christ did not think it robbery to be equal with God who is Spirit. For they indeed are ONE and the same.
Not two persons as the modern day religious culture would have us believe. Indeed, God purposely veiled Himself in flesh in an endeavour to reveal Himself to mankind - to you and I that He is pure, holy, loving, long suffering, compassionate and merciful. That He Himself is the Author of love!
Indeed, JESUS was the life of God! No man has seen God at any time so God revealed Himself in the same fashion even as we are. JESUS saying to His disciples, that if you have seen Me then you have seen the Father. (John 14:6-12) Jesus said, "I and My Father are ONE!" (John 10:30) He that has the Son receives the Father also.
Surely natural life dictates that this is so. For if you naturally look at me - Bill - I am a son - I am also a father in a son's body and also the one who is speaking now Bill as the spirit, having my life in Bill the same son's body. I am not three distinct and separate persons. I am one person. And likewise, neither are you three persons.
Moreover, I am one, and I have only one given name. That name is not father nor son nor spirit but rather my name is Bill.
So from whence comes the problem? The difficulty is that the church fathers messed things up, and as a result of their ignorance (willingly or otherwise) they have led multitudes of people into error. They have left aside the Word of God and are entrenched in teaching error. Read the scriptures for yourself. JESUS said, "My Word is Spirit and it is Life!" The entrance of My Word brings forth life. Indeed, you shall know the truth, and upon knowing these truths, these truths shall set you free.
Spirit Life then is bounded by a law. That Law is that believers continue in the Word spoken and delivered to mankind by the Lord God Himself. After His kindness and love, God willingly became our Saviour. (Titus 3:4-7)
Continue in HIS Word today! Remain steadfast in the apostle's doctrine (Acts 2:36-47) That way you will not be tossed to and fro because you will be standing on the Rock -- the Rock that is Jesus.
Stand in the offering plate!
(Written by William McKendrick)
Benefactors? Succourers? God's Ensamples to the Flock? - Part 1549
Are we not to be God's ensamples to the flock so that when the Chief Shepherd appears, we shall receive a crown of glory? (I Peter 5:2-5)
Interestingly, the word that Jesus uses in reference to the kings of the Gentiles -- the word benefactor -- gave me pause to think. As far as I can tell, in Jesus' day, a benefactor referred to the titles and honour given to those in positions of power. For example, the title of "Your Majesty" when addressing earthly royalty.
However, when I look up this same word benefactor in modern day dictionaries, the word benefactor has taken on a new connotation. In fact, being a benefactor today refers to "those who give" to a cause, whether it be monetary or in the form of a gift. [*A benefactor, according to the Mirriam-Webster dictionary is "one that confers a benefit; especially one that makes a gift or bequest."]
Either way, and for purposes of clarity, I draw on Jesus' instructions in the scriptural example from Luke 22.
Herein, the disciples are making ready for the feast of unleavened bread, which is called the Passover. Jesus sitting with the twelve says unto them, "With desire I have desired to eat this Passover with you before I suffer: for I say unto you, I will not any more eat thereof until it be fulfilled in the kingdom of God." Jesus takes the bread, gives thanks and breaks, giving unto the disciples, saying, "This is My body which is given for you; this do in remembrance of Me." Likewise, also the cup after supper, saying, "This cup is the new testament in My blood, which is shed for you. But, behold, the hand of him that betrays Me is with Me on the table. And truly the Son of man goes, as it was determined: but woe unto that man by whom He is betrayed!" (Luke 22:8-22)
This dialogue leads to the disciples asking one another -- which of them should do this thing. As a consequence, note that the scriptures state there came about a strife [rivalry] among them, [as to] which of them should be accounted [considered] the greatest. (Luke 22:23-24) Given the circumstance, and the fact that Jesus knew what was yet come, this emerging dialogue from His disciples must have been draining. Nevertheless, Jesus continues His teaching, saying:
This dialogue leads to the disciples asking one another -- which of them should do this thing. As a consequence, note that the scriptures state there came about a strife [rivalry] among them, [as to] which of them should be accounted [considered] the greatest. (Luke 22:23-24) Given the circumstance, and the fact that Jesus knew what was yet come, this emerging dialogue from His disciples must have been draining. Nevertheless, Jesus continues His teaching, saying:
"The kings of the Gentiles exercise lordship over them, and they that exercise authority upon them are called benefactors. BUT YE SHALL NOT BE SO; but he that is greatest among you, let him be as the younger; and he that is chief, as he that doth serve. For whether is greater, he that sits at meat? but I am among you as He that serves. Ye are they which have continued with Me in My temptations. and I appoint unto you a kingdom, as My Father hath appointed unto Me; that ye may eat and drink at My table in My kingdom, and sit on thrones judging the twelve tribes of Israel." (Luke 22:23-32)
Jesus calls to them and saith, "Ye know that they which are accounted to rule over the Gentiles exercise lordship over them; and their great ones exercise authority upon them, but so shall it not be among you, but whosoever will be great among you, shall be your minister, and whosoever of you will be the chiefest shall be the servant of all. For ever the Son of man came not to be ministered unto, but to minister and to give His life for many." (Mark 10:35-45)
Here was Jesus the Christ about to go to the cross for our transgressions listening to some level of discord among the disciples. Just before this, when the disciples had again disputed among themselves (as to who should be the greatest), Jesus told them, "If any man desire to be first, the same shall be last of all, and servant of all." (Mark 9:30-35) And in another place, this is the very same message Jesus said to His disciples when He set a child by Him saying, "Whosoever shall receive this child in My Name receives Me; and whosoever shall receive Me receives Him that sent Me: for He that is least among you all, the same shall be great." (Luke 9:48)
"Whosoever therefore shall humble himself as this little child, the same is greatest in the kingdom of heaven, and whoso shall receive one such little child in My Name receives Me." (Matthew 18:4-5)
Beginning from the time when Jesus preached the "be-attitudes" there was an underlying theme that believers in Jesus by faith are not to be like the hypocrites in the synagogues or the streets who seek the glory of men. As Jesus said, "They have their reward. But when thou does alms, let not thy left hand know what thine right hand does, that thine alms may be in secret; and thy Father which sees in secret Himself shall reward thee openly." (Matthew 6:1-18)
Therefore, as Jesus prayed specifically for Simon Peter, we also are to ensure that our faith fail not, that when we are converted, we can strengthen our brethren. (Luke 22:31-32) How? Certainly not by lording over them. Or expecting titles and recognition from men. Or, expecting benefactors to come to the rescue to support "our" earthly cause?
But rather, being a benefactor or flow-through for the Lord so that others see Him in us. As apostle Paul writes when it comes to teaching and preaching the good news gospel of Jesus Christ, "Verily, that when I preach the gospel, I may make the gospel of Christ without charge, that I abuse not my power in the gospel." (I Corinthians 9:18)
"If others be partakers of this power over you, are not we rather? Nevertheless, we have not used this power; but suffer all things lest we should hinder the gospel of Christ ..." (I Corinthians 9:12)
"Not seeking mine own profit, but the profit of many, that they shall be saved." (I Corinthians 10:33)
Peter, an apostle of Jesus Christ to the strangers scattered through Pontus, Galatia, Cappadocia, Asia, and Bithynia writes to the elect according to the foreknowledge of God the Father through sanctification of the Spirit, unto obedience and sprinkling of the blood of Jesus Christ -- that the elders which are among you ... feed the flock of God which is among you, taking the oversight [thereof], not by constraint, but willingly, not for filthy lucre, but of a ready mind, neither as being lords over God's heritage, but being ensamples to the flock [that] when the chief Shepherd shall appear, ye shall receive a crown of glory that fades not away." (I Peter 5:1-4; I Timothy 3:1-13)
The true servant of the Lord not striving to be seen/perceived as one of the greatest, but rather being gentle unto all, apt to teach, patient, in meekness instructing those that oppose themselves; if God peradventure will give them repentance to the acknowledging of the truth, and that they may recover themselves out of the snare of the devil, who are taken captive by him at his will. (II Timothy 2:24-26)
The apostles according to the scriptures should be our ensample (for many walk, of whom I have told you often, and now tell you even weeping, that they are the enemies of the cross of Christ; whose end is destruction, whose God is their belly, and whose glory is in their shame -- who mind earthly things). (Philippians 3:18-21)
But our conversation as believers should be in heaven -- from whence also we look for the Saviour -- the Lord Jesus Christ. The King of kings and Lord of lords, Alpha and Omega, the first and the last, the beginning and the ending. (Revelation 1:8. 11)
Still, if the examples within the modern day religious culture leads us to believe that this "servant" mode for our Lord God and Saviour Jesus the Christ is not possible, please look at Paul's admiration of Phebe our sister, which is a servant of the church which is at Cenchrea; that ye receive her in the Lord, as becomes saints, and that ye assist her in whatsoever business she hath need of you; for she hath been a succourer of many, and of myself also." (Romans 16:1-2)
God's ensample to the flock - stepping up to the high calling that the Lord purposed in your heart whilst ye were still in your mother's womb -- both willingly and with a ready mind/heart.
Like Priscilla and Aquilla (helpers in Christ Jesus), Mary (who bestowed much labour on us), Andronicus and Junia, kinsmen and fellow prisoners (who are of note among the apostles who also were in Christ before Paul), Ampilas, Urbane, Stachys, Apelles, Aristobulus' household, Herodion, the household of Narcissus, Tryphena, Tryphosa, Peris, Rufus and his mother, Asyncritus, Phlegon, Hermas, and the brethren with them, Philologus, Julia, Nereus and his sister, Olympas and all the saints which are with them, Timotheus, Lucius, Jason, Sosipater, Tertius, Gaius, Erastus, and Quartus who all knew in their hearts -- as did apostle Paul, and the other eleven too -- who decided because of their faith and testimony in the Lord Jesus to become succourers and God's ensamples to His flock so that others could also obtain like precious faith through the righteousness of God and our Saviour Jesus Christ. (Romans 16:1-27; II Peter 1:1-2)
"Now to Him that is of power to stablish you according to my gospel, and the preaching of Jesus Christ, according to the revelation of the mystery, which was kept secret since the world began, but now is made manifest and by the scriptures of the prophets, according to the commandment of the everlasting God, made known to all nations for the obedience of the faith; to God only wise, be glory through Jesus Christ for ever, Amen!" (Romans 16:1-24)
Stand in the offering plate.
Wednesday, November 23, 2016
How Shall We Escape If We Neglect So Great Salvation- Part 1548
We ought to give more earnest heed to the things which we have heard lest at any time we should let them slip. "For if the Word spoken by angels was steadfast, and every transgression and disobedience received a just recompense of reward; how shall we escape, if we neglect so great salvation, which at the first began to be spoken by the Lord, and was confirmed unto us by them that heard [Him]. God also bearing [them] witness, both with signs and wonders, and with diverse miracles, and gifts of the Holy Ghost, according to His own will?" (Hebrews 2:1-4)
Throughout the Bible, there is a steadfast witness from a host of prophets, the psalmist and Jesus' disciples and followers that lead seekers to the good news gospel knowledge of our Lord God and Saviour Jesus the Christ. Howbeit the most high dwells not in temples made with hands; as saith the prophet, "Heaven is My throne, and earth is my footstool; what house will ye build Me?" saith the Lord; "or what is the place of My rest? Hath not My hand made all these things?" (Acts 7:48-50; Isaiah 66:1-2; Psalm 102:25)
In fact, many of the prophets of old were persecuted, having been slain -- them which shewed before of the coming of the Just One. (Acts 7:52-52; Acts 3:14; Acts 22:14) And now, as Peter with John proclaim -- these have denied the Holy One and the Just, and desired instead that a murderer be granted full pardon. These [we] killed the Prince of life, whom God hath raised from the dead; whereof we are witnesses. The only charge against Jesus? He healed the sick and lame in His Name through faith in His Name made. (Acts 3:14)
Still, the numerous testimonies and witnesses of Jesus in the scriptures remains true. Ananias, a devout man according to the law said unto Saul/Paul, "The God of our fathers hath chosen thee, that thou should know His will, and see that Just One, and should hear the voice of His mouth. For thou shalt be His witness unto all men of what thou hast seen and heard." (Acts 22:14-15)
But he was not alone.
"And there are also many other things which Jesus did, the which, if they should be written every one, I suppose that even the world itself could not contain the books that should be written. Amen!" (John 21:25)
"And many other signs truly did Jesus in the presence of His disciples, which are not written in this book; but these are written that ye might believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, and that believing ye might have life through His Name." (John 20:30-31)
In order to maintain a credible record, Luke (a physician by profession) set forth a declaration of those things which are most surely believed among us -- even as they delivered them unto us, which from the beginning were eyewitnesses, and ministers of the Word. He wrote that it seemed good to him also, having had perfect understanding of all things from the very first which is why he is writing to the most excellent Theophilus -- "that thou might know the certainty of those things, wherein thou hast been instructed." (Luke 1:1-4)
A similar former treatise is written to Theophilus in Acts 1:1-2, outlining all that Jesus began to do and teach.
When it came to replacing Judas (the disciple which had fallen by transgression and betrayed Jesus), lots were drawn between two men. But these two were not ordinary men but had to "have companied with us all the time that our Lord Jesus went in and out among us, beginning from the baptism of John, until that same day that He was taken from us ... ordained to be a witness with us of His resurrection." (Acts 1:21-22)
These had to have experienced and seen with their own eyes the miracles of Jesus. These had to ave followed Jesus from the time of John's baptism of repentance to the cross. Paul also states that he delivered unto you/us all that which I/he also received -- how that Christ died for our sins, according to the scriptures, and that Jesus was buried, and rose again on the third day (again, according to the scriptures). (I Corinthians 15:1-4)
But there were others like Cephas, and then the twelve, and also the five hundred brethren, and James and all of the apostles. (I Corinthians 15:5-8)
"These things have I written unto you that believe on the Name of the Son of God; that ye may know that ye have eternal life, and that ye may believe on the Name of the Son of God. And this is the confidence that we have in Him, that, if we ask any thing according to His will, He hears us ..." )I John 5:13-14)
And I have not even begun to mention the eyewitness accounts of Matthew, Mark, Luke or John or the unifying and consistent thread that runs through each of their respective gospels. Or the prophecies of the many prophets in the old covenant who foretold of our blessed Saviour so very long ago.
Nevertheless, there is no shortage of witnesses who would confirm the greatest love story ever told. That is,
"For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord," (Luke 2:11)
Please don't neglect the Lord's love offering to you. He became the perfect sacrifice so that you might have life more abundantly in Him. After His kindness and love, God became our Saviour! Stand in the offering plate.
Throughout the Bible, there is a steadfast witness from a host of prophets, the psalmist and Jesus' disciples and followers that lead seekers to the good news gospel knowledge of our Lord God and Saviour Jesus the Christ. Howbeit the most high dwells not in temples made with hands; as saith the prophet, "Heaven is My throne, and earth is my footstool; what house will ye build Me?" saith the Lord; "or what is the place of My rest? Hath not My hand made all these things?" (Acts 7:48-50; Isaiah 66:1-2; Psalm 102:25)
In fact, many of the prophets of old were persecuted, having been slain -- them which shewed before of the coming of the Just One. (Acts 7:52-52; Acts 3:14; Acts 22:14) And now, as Peter with John proclaim -- these have denied the Holy One and the Just, and desired instead that a murderer be granted full pardon. These [we] killed the Prince of life, whom God hath raised from the dead; whereof we are witnesses. The only charge against Jesus? He healed the sick and lame in His Name through faith in His Name made. (Acts 3:14)
Still, the numerous testimonies and witnesses of Jesus in the scriptures remains true. Ananias, a devout man according to the law said unto Saul/Paul, "The God of our fathers hath chosen thee, that thou should know His will, and see that Just One, and should hear the voice of His mouth. For thou shalt be His witness unto all men of what thou hast seen and heard." (Acts 22:14-15)
But he was not alone.
"And there are also many other things which Jesus did, the which, if they should be written every one, I suppose that even the world itself could not contain the books that should be written. Amen!" (John 21:25)
"And many other signs truly did Jesus in the presence of His disciples, which are not written in this book; but these are written that ye might believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, and that believing ye might have life through His Name." (John 20:30-31)
In order to maintain a credible record, Luke (a physician by profession) set forth a declaration of those things which are most surely believed among us -- even as they delivered them unto us, which from the beginning were eyewitnesses, and ministers of the Word. He wrote that it seemed good to him also, having had perfect understanding of all things from the very first which is why he is writing to the most excellent Theophilus -- "that thou might know the certainty of those things, wherein thou hast been instructed." (Luke 1:1-4)
A similar former treatise is written to Theophilus in Acts 1:1-2, outlining all that Jesus began to do and teach.
When it came to replacing Judas (the disciple which had fallen by transgression and betrayed Jesus), lots were drawn between two men. But these two were not ordinary men but had to "have companied with us all the time that our Lord Jesus went in and out among us, beginning from the baptism of John, until that same day that He was taken from us ... ordained to be a witness with us of His resurrection." (Acts 1:21-22)
These had to have experienced and seen with their own eyes the miracles of Jesus. These had to ave followed Jesus from the time of John's baptism of repentance to the cross. Paul also states that he delivered unto you/us all that which I/he also received -- how that Christ died for our sins, according to the scriptures, and that Jesus was buried, and rose again on the third day (again, according to the scriptures). (I Corinthians 15:1-4)
But there were others like Cephas, and then the twelve, and also the five hundred brethren, and James and all of the apostles. (I Corinthians 15:5-8)
"These things have I written unto you that believe on the Name of the Son of God; that ye may know that ye have eternal life, and that ye may believe on the Name of the Son of God. And this is the confidence that we have in Him, that, if we ask any thing according to His will, He hears us ..." )I John 5:13-14)
And I have not even begun to mention the eyewitness accounts of Matthew, Mark, Luke or John or the unifying and consistent thread that runs through each of their respective gospels. Or the prophecies of the many prophets in the old covenant who foretold of our blessed Saviour so very long ago.
Nevertheless, there is no shortage of witnesses who would confirm the greatest love story ever told. That is,
"For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord," (Luke 2:11)
Please don't neglect the Lord's love offering to you. He became the perfect sacrifice so that you might have life more abundantly in Him. After His kindness and love, God became our Saviour! Stand in the offering plate.
Let the Word of Christ Dwell In You Richly in All Wisdom - Part 1547
Christ is all in all. (Colossians 3:11)
He is our Lord God and Saviour, who after His kindness and love for His beloved creation endured the cross, that was such a contradiction. Here was He who knew no sin personally delivering to us His free gift of salvation so that we might experience life in Him. His peace. His joy. His love and mercy which surpasses all human understanding. (Titus 3:4-7)
"Which is His body, the fullness of Him that fills all in all." (Ephesians 1:23)
"For in Him dwells all the fullness of the Godhead bodily, and ye are complete in Him which is the Head of all principality and power." (Colossians 2:9-10)
"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)
Not another but the one and same God who created man and woman in the beginning, He was made flesh and dwelt among us (and we beheld His glory, the glory of the only begotten of the Father) full of grace and truth. John bare witness of Him, and cried, saying, "This was He of whom I spake. He that comes after me is preferred before me for He was before me." (John 1:15)
God manifest in the flesh. (I Timothy 3:16) The Lord coming forth as a mighty man. (Isaiah 42:13)
"... now in Christ Jesus ye who sometimes were far off are made nigh by the blood of Christ, for He is our peace, who hath made both one, and hath broken down the middle wall of partition between us; having abolished in His flesh the enmity, even the law of commandments contained in ordinances; for to make in Himself of twain one new man, so making peace, and that He might reconcile both unto God in one body by the cross, having slain the enmity thereby, and came and preached peace to you which were afar off, and to them that were night. For through Him, we both have access by one Spirit unto the Father." (Ephesians 2:13-22)
It is in this context that apostle Paul continually warns us of those who would spoil us through philosophy and deceit, after the traditions of men, after the rudiments of the world and not after Christ. It is because of the importance of understanding that before the foundation of the world was even formed, God knew that He would have to become our Saviour. That His humanity would have to shed His precious holy blood on the cross if we were to be redeemed. That He Himself would have to usher in this dispensation of grace -- how that by revelation He made known unto me the mystery .. the mystery of Christ -- "which in other ages was not made known unto the sons of men, as it is now revealed unto His holy apostles and prophets by the Spirit; that the Gentiles should be fellow heirs and of the same body and partakers of His promise of Christ by the gospel ... and to make all [men] see what is the fellowship of the mystery, which from the beginning of the world hath been hid in God, who created all things by Jesus Christ." (Ephesians 3:1-10)
"According to the eternal purpose which He purposed in Christ Jesus our Lord ..." (Ephesians 3:11)
In the old, we see that God prepared Himself a body so that He could become the perfect sacrifice. In the new, we are members of His body -- the body of Christ -- wherein Jesus is the Head. (Romans 12:4-18)
"For as the body is one, and hath many members, and all the members of that one body, being many, are one body; so also is Christ. For by one Spirit are we all baptized into one body, whether we be Jews, or Gentiles, whether we be bond or free; and have been all made to drink into one Spirit, for the body is not one member but many." (I Corinthians 12:12-14)
Paul continues this same message in Galatians:
"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." 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 fro 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 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 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 serve the law? It was added because of transgressions, till the seed should come to whom the promise was made; and it was ordained by the angels in the hand of a mediator. Now a mediator is not a mediator of one, but God is one.
Is the law then against the promises of God? God forbid; for if there had been a law given which could have given life, verily righteousness should have been by the law. But the scripture hath concluded all under sin, that the promise by faith of Jesus Christ might be given to them that believe. But before faith came, we were kept under the law, shut up unto the faith which should afterwards be revealed.
Wherefore, the law was our schoolmaster to bring us unto Christ, that we might be justified by faith. But after that faith is come, we are no longer under a schoolmaster.
For ye are all the children of God by faith in Christ Jesus, for 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 3:6-29)
This is why God had to conclude them/us all in unbelief, that He might have mercy upon all. O the depth of the riches both of the wisdom and knowledge of God! "For of Him and through Him and to Him are all things, to whom be glory for ever, amen." (Romans 12:30-36)
Stand in the offering plate.
He is our Lord God and Saviour, who after His kindness and love for His beloved creation endured the cross, that was such a contradiction. Here was He who knew no sin personally delivering to us His free gift of salvation so that we might experience life in Him. His peace. His joy. His love and mercy which surpasses all human understanding. (Titus 3:4-7)
"Which is His body, the fullness of Him that fills all in all." (Ephesians 1:23)
"For in Him dwells all the fullness of the Godhead bodily, and ye are complete in Him which is the Head of all principality and power." (Colossians 2:9-10)
"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)
Not another but the one and same God who created man and woman in the beginning, He was made flesh and dwelt among us (and we beheld His glory, the glory of the only begotten of the Father) full of grace and truth. John bare witness of Him, and cried, saying, "This was He of whom I spake. He that comes after me is preferred before me for He was before me." (John 1:15)
God manifest in the flesh. (I Timothy 3:16) The Lord coming forth as a mighty man. (Isaiah 42:13)
"... now in Christ Jesus ye who sometimes were far off are made nigh by the blood of Christ, for He is our peace, who hath made both one, and hath broken down the middle wall of partition between us; having abolished in His flesh the enmity, even the law of commandments contained in ordinances; for to make in Himself of twain one new man, so making peace, and that He might reconcile both unto God in one body by the cross, having slain the enmity thereby, and came and preached peace to you which were afar off, and to them that were night. For through Him, we both have access by one Spirit unto the Father." (Ephesians 2:13-22)
It is in this context that apostle Paul continually warns us of those who would spoil us through philosophy and deceit, after the traditions of men, after the rudiments of the world and not after Christ. It is because of the importance of understanding that before the foundation of the world was even formed, God knew that He would have to become our Saviour. That His humanity would have to shed His precious holy blood on the cross if we were to be redeemed. That He Himself would have to usher in this dispensation of grace -- how that by revelation He made known unto me the mystery .. the mystery of Christ -- "which in other ages was not made known unto the sons of men, as it is now revealed unto His holy apostles and prophets by the Spirit; that the Gentiles should be fellow heirs and of the same body and partakers of His promise of Christ by the gospel ... and to make all [men] see what is the fellowship of the mystery, which from the beginning of the world hath been hid in God, who created all things by Jesus Christ." (Ephesians 3:1-10)
"According to the eternal purpose which He purposed in Christ Jesus our Lord ..." (Ephesians 3:11)
In the old, we see that God prepared Himself a body so that He could become the perfect sacrifice. In the new, we are members of His body -- the body of Christ -- wherein Jesus is the Head. (Romans 12:4-18)
"For as the body is one, and hath many members, and all the members of that one body, being many, are one body; so also is Christ. For by one Spirit are we all baptized into one body, whether we be Jews, or Gentiles, whether we be bond or free; and have been all made to drink into one Spirit, for the body is not one member but many." (I Corinthians 12:12-14)
Paul continues this same message in Galatians:
"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." 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 fro 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 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 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 serve the law? It was added because of transgressions, till the seed should come to whom the promise was made; and it was ordained by the angels in the hand of a mediator. Now a mediator is not a mediator of one, but God is one.
Is the law then against the promises of God? God forbid; for if there had been a law given which could have given life, verily righteousness should have been by the law. But the scripture hath concluded all under sin, that the promise by faith of Jesus Christ might be given to them that believe. But before faith came, we were kept under the law, shut up unto the faith which should afterwards be revealed.
Wherefore, the law was our schoolmaster to bring us unto Christ, that we might be justified by faith. But after that faith is come, we are no longer under a schoolmaster.
For ye are all the children of God by faith in Christ Jesus, for 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 3:6-29)
This is why God had to conclude them/us all in unbelief, that He might have mercy upon all. O the depth of the riches both of the wisdom and knowledge of God! "For of Him and through Him and to Him are all things, to whom be glory for ever, amen." (Romans 12:30-36)
Stand in the offering plate.
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