There was a certain man at Lystra, impotent in his feet. Being crippled from his mother's womb, he had never walked. This man heard apostle Paul speaking, and Paul, perceiving that he had the faith to be healed, said with a loud voice, "Stand upright on thy feet." And the man leaped and walked. When the people saw what Paul had done, they lifted up their voices, saying in the speech of Lycaonia, "The gods are come down to us in the likeness of men." (Acts 14:8-11)
Before continuing, let me say this first. People are being led astray by false doctrines and teachings within the modern age religious culture all the time. The example above is not the only time the apostles had to boldly proclaim the Lord Jesus as their Lord God and Saviour, or to similarly point out that there is only ONE GOD and His Name (in this current dispensation of grace) is JESUS. (Matthew 1:21-23; John 20:31; Philippians 2:9; Acts 4:12)
While in the first example, the people thought the gods had come down in the likeness of men, there is another example wherein the people were bewitched by sorceries -- in the plural. We learn more about this in Acts 8. Situated in a city in Samaria wherein a certain man called Simon used sorcery to bewitch the people. "To whom they all gave heed, from the least to the greatest, saying, "This man is the great power of G/god!" And to him they had regard, because that of long time he had bewitched them with sorceries [magic arts]. (Acts 8:5-12)
There is yet another example worth noting, whereby the people thought Paul was a god in Acts 28. Herein, the centurion willing to save Paul commanded those who could swim to shore to do so when the ship broke in the place where two seas met. This place was called Melita [Malta] wherein "the barbarous people showed us no little [unusual] kindness: for they kindled a fire, and received us every one because of the present rain, and because of the cold." (Acts 28:1-3) Apostle Paul had gathered a bundle of sticks to lay on the fire. When he did, there came a viper out of the heat and fastened on his hand.
"And when the barbarians saw the [venomous] beast [creature] hang on his hand" -- the people thought Paul to be "a murderer, whom, though he hath escaped the sea, yet vengeance suffer not to live." When Paul shook off the beast into the fire and the people saw that he felt no harm, and was not swollen, or fallen down dead suddenly; they changed their minds and said "that he was a god." (Acts 28:1-10)
What is consistent in all three examples, is that the people obviously did not know the one true God. Neither did these understand that in this current dispensation of grace, wherein "God at the first did visit the Gentiles, to take out of them a people for HIS NAME!" (Acts 15:14) Instead, these either willingly worshiped men as a god, or as detailed in the first example, believed the "gods are come down to us in the likeness of men." (Acts 14:11)
At this point, none understood that God robed Himself in sin-prone flesh (yet without sin) so that He could become the perfect sacrifice -- "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 we being justified by His grace, we should be made heirs according to the hope of eternal life." (Titus 3:4-7)
Instead, these people were willing to attach their loyalty to others. So in Acts 14 (where we started) let's look at what happens when they called Barnabas Jupiter and Paul Mercurius -- because he was the chief speaker.
"Then the priest of Jupiter (Zeus), which was before their city. brought oxen and garlands unto the gates, and would have done sacrifice with the people [which] when the apostles Barnabas and Paul heard, they rent their clothes and ran in among the people, crying out, and saying, "Sirs, why do ye these things? We also are men of like passions with you and preach unto you that ye should turn from these vanities unto the living God, which made heaven, and earth, and the sea, and all things that are therein; who in times past [past generations] suffered all nations to walk in their own ways. Nevertheless, He left not Himself without witness in that He did good, and gave us rain from heaven, and fruitful seasons, filling our hearts with food and gladness." And with these sayings, scarce restrained they the people, that they had not done sacrifice unto them." [scarcely restrain the multitudes from sacrificing to them] (Acts 14:12-18)
Along come thither certain Jews from Antioch and Iconium, who persuade the people, having stoned Paul to draw him out of the city, supposing he had been dead. "Howbeit, as the disciples stood round about him, he rose up and came into the city; and the next day he departed with Barnabas to Derbe. And where they had preached the gospel to that city, and had taught many, they returned again to Lystra, and to Iconium, and Antioch, confirming the souls of the disciples, and exhorting them to continue in the faith, and that we must through much tribulation enter into the kingdom of God. And when they had ordained [appointed] them elders in every church and had prayed with fasting, they commended them to the Lord, on whom they believed." (Acts 14:19-23)
Note here that the apostles did not commend [commit] them to gods that appeared in the likeness of men, or a god, or conversely, attach the label of God to a man performing sorceries in the public square. Rather, Paul pointed them to the ONE LORD -- on whom they believed. The "One Lord, One Faith, One Baptism, One God and Father of all, who is above all, and through all, and in you all -- but unto every one of us is given grace according to the measure of the gift of Christ." (Ephesians 4:5-7)
The apostles preached the Name of Jesus to one and all -- "as the truth is in Jesus." (Ephesians 4:21)
Indeed, as Jesus said to His disciples before telling them that if "ye had known Me, ye should have known My Father also, and from henceforth ye know Him and have seen Him that He -- Jesus -- "I am the Way, the Truth and the Life. No man comes unto the Father but by Me." (John 14:6-12)
Even when the Pharisees commanded believers to keep the law of Moses, the apostles spent their lives preaching Jesus, intent on declaring the conversion of the Gentiles, confirming the souls of the disciples, and, as well, exhorting them to continue in the faith.
What is the point herein? That at the end of the day, there will always be certain sects that will try to draw you away from our One and Only Lord God and Saviour Jesus the Christ. There will also be trying to keep those who came to Jesus by faith under the law of Moses.
But even when the apostles were abused and an assault made under the further threat of being stoned, the apostles continued to preach the good news gospel of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the liberty wherewith is in Him. And that gospel message?
“Men [and] brethren, ye know how that a good while ago God made choice among us, that the Gentiles by my mouth should hear the Word of the gospel, and believe. And God, which knows the hearts, bare them witness, giving them the Holy Ghost even as [He did] unto us; and put no difference between us and them, purifying their hearts by faith. Now therefore, why tempt ye God, to put a yoke upon the neck of the disciples, which neither our fathers, nor we, were able to bear? But we believe that through the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ we shall be saved, even as they.” (Acts 15:7-11)
The Son of man now glorified, and God glorified in Him. (John 13:31)
Hold fast to the faith and remain steadfast in the apostles' doctrine wherein we know that this SAME JESUS whom ye have crucified was then, and is now BOTH LORD AND CHRIST. (Acts 2:1-47; 36, 38-42)
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
Thursday, June 15, 2017
Wednesday, June 14, 2017
Whatsoever Things Are True; Whatsoever Things Are Honest; Whatsoever Things Are Just; Whatsoever Things Are Pure -- Part 1726
"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 20:31)
We hear the phrase 'in the name of God' so often but rarely do we pursue the inquiry further. Do you know? What is God’s name? For God is surely a descriptive title, never being a name. And similarly in this context, if one is utilizing a descriptive title, then why not expose to others whom it is that you are calling God?
In God we trust is another phrase used in various contexts. But again, please explain to the general populace who it is that you are putting your trust in? Or "God bless you!" In all of these examples, we need to ask ourselves who it is -- this God -- that we are talking about. We should know who it is that we are asking to bless you.
Further to the point, there [apparently] are an abundance of gods that people tend to worship, even if they know not what. For example, taking a feel good pill or trying to find life in the bottom of a beer or liquor bottle can be considered gods because they consume us in a way that is god-like.
So who is this God, whose name we do not know? Well, let me tell you. Certainly, I cannot trust in a God whom I know nothing about and I am equally sure that you feel the same way. So let's examine the scriptures and determine once and for all who God is.
We've all heard that God is Love. We also recognize that God is not a respecter of persons. God has not two laws, one for the rich and another for the poor! And God does not tell me at the point of a gun how much He loves me. But I do know from reading the scriptures how much God loves me.
Similarly, we find in reading the scriptures that God Has a name. In fact, it is as a result of knowing that name and calling upon that name that one can be blessed. Indeed, apart from knowing God’s revealed name, confusion rules and reigns. We've seen this time and time again throughout history. Nations upon hearing God’s name go from being a 'have-not' nation to a 'have' nation. Conversely, nations that at one time were aware of God’s name but have since turned their backs to God often begin a downward spiral.
Still, what is in a name? What do names represent? You as a individual would never let anyone misrepresent or discredit your name. Why? Because your name is you! It dictates who you are. And in fact, your name will outlive you. Your offspring bear your name.
Likewise, when you know God’s name and have grown to know the One God who bears that name, then you would not by any means desire to discredit or misrepresent His name. In this sense, neither Jehovah or Yahweh are God’s name! God never revealed either as being His name.
But there is a name, as the scriptures repeatedly point out, which is above every other name in Heaven and on Earth. And the one who bears that name is the One God, who is before all things. He is also the One God who made all things! This One God who is Spirit has revealed HIMSELF as a Son. He did not reveal Himself as another person!
God who is Spirit, inhabited a man’s body, endeavouring to reveal Himself to His people. And indeed, this God who is love bears the precious Name of JESUS! Why even the angels worship Him. Wise men worship Him too.
Why? Because JESUS is the King of kings and Lord of lords. He will never leave us comfortless -- He will come unto you if you willingly open the door of your heart to the good news gospel of the Lord Jesus Christ. In fact, Jesus said, "I am the Way, the Truth and the life. No man comes to the Father but by Me." (John 14:6)
Make that decision for Jesus today, and let the Lord Jesus become your all in all. Stand firm in the offering plate.
We hear the phrase 'in the name of God' so often but rarely do we pursue the inquiry further. Do you know? What is God’s name? For God is surely a descriptive title, never being a name. And similarly in this context, if one is utilizing a descriptive title, then why not expose to others whom it is that you are calling God?
In God we trust is another phrase used in various contexts. But again, please explain to the general populace who it is that you are putting your trust in? Or "God bless you!" In all of these examples, we need to ask ourselves who it is -- this God -- that we are talking about. We should know who it is that we are asking to bless you.
Further to the point, there [apparently] are an abundance of gods that people tend to worship, even if they know not what. For example, taking a feel good pill or trying to find life in the bottom of a beer or liquor bottle can be considered gods because they consume us in a way that is god-like.
So who is this God, whose name we do not know? Well, let me tell you. Certainly, I cannot trust in a God whom I know nothing about and I am equally sure that you feel the same way. So let's examine the scriptures and determine once and for all who God is.
We've all heard that God is Love. We also recognize that God is not a respecter of persons. God has not two laws, one for the rich and another for the poor! And God does not tell me at the point of a gun how much He loves me. But I do know from reading the scriptures how much God loves me.
Similarly, we find in reading the scriptures that God Has a name. In fact, it is as a result of knowing that name and calling upon that name that one can be blessed. Indeed, apart from knowing God’s revealed name, confusion rules and reigns. We've seen this time and time again throughout history. Nations upon hearing God’s name go from being a 'have-not' nation to a 'have' nation. Conversely, nations that at one time were aware of God’s name but have since turned their backs to God often begin a downward spiral.
Still, what is in a name? What do names represent? You as a individual would never let anyone misrepresent or discredit your name. Why? Because your name is you! It dictates who you are. And in fact, your name will outlive you. Your offspring bear your name.
Likewise, when you know God’s name and have grown to know the One God who bears that name, then you would not by any means desire to discredit or misrepresent His name. In this sense, neither Jehovah or Yahweh are God’s name! God never revealed either as being His name.
But there is a name, as the scriptures repeatedly point out, which is above every other name in Heaven and on Earth. And the one who bears that name is the One God, who is before all things. He is also the One God who made all things! This One God who is Spirit has revealed HIMSELF as a Son. He did not reveal Himself as another person!
God who is Spirit, inhabited a man’s body, endeavouring to reveal Himself to His people. And indeed, this God who is love bears the precious Name of JESUS! Why even the angels worship Him. Wise men worship Him too.
Why? Because JESUS is the King of kings and Lord of lords. He will never leave us comfortless -- He will come unto you if you willingly open the door of your heart to the good news gospel of the Lord Jesus Christ. In fact, Jesus said, "I am the Way, the Truth and the life. No man comes to the Father but by Me." (John 14:6)
Make that decision for Jesus today, and let the Lord Jesus become your all in all. Stand firm in the offering plate.
Declaring How God at the First Did Visit the Gentiles, To Take Out of Them a People For His Name - Part 1725
“But we believe that through the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, we should be saved, even as they [in the same manner].” (Acts 15:11)
“And hope makes not ashamed; because the love of God is shed abroad in our hearts by the Holy Ghost which is given unto us … for when we were yet without strength in due time Christ died for the ungodly. For scarcely for a righteous man will on die: yet peradventure for a good man some would even dare to die ....
“And hope makes not ashamed; because the love of God is shed abroad in our hearts by the Holy Ghost which is given unto us … for when we were yet without strength in due time Christ died for the ungodly. For scarcely for a righteous man will on die: yet peradventure for a good man some would even dare to die ....
But God commends His love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us. Much more then, being now justified by His blood, we shall be saved from wrath through Him …” (Romans 5:5-9; Philippians 1:20; II Corinthians 1:22; Romans 4:25; Romans 5:8; Romans 8:32; Isaiah 53:5; John 3:16; John 15:13; Ephesians 2:13)
The greatest love story ever told– about one Shepherd who loved us so much that He would lay down His life for His sheep so that those of us who believe in Jesus by faith, can be redeemed through His precious blood shed on the cross.
Still, as we know from the scriptures, “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 1:10-13) But for those who love the Lord with all our heart, soul, mind and strength, we can stand firm on an issue, having put our hand to the plough, we press into the mark which is Christ, without turning back. (Mark 12:29-31; Deuteronomy 6:4)
“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 as it is in truth-- the Word of God which effectually works in you that believe …” (I Thessalonians 1:13)
We are therefore sanctified by truth – “Thy Word is truth.” (John 17:17)
Thus, if there is any spiritual/heavenly understanding that we should recognize, it is that God Himself opened the door of faith to the Gentiles – so that each and every one of us may be blessed from hearing His Word – if we open our hearts.
We know from the prophets from afore that God had intended to do a new thing in the new testament. A new work wherein we can all / everyone can freely receive His precious gift of salvation, wherein we are saved by grace through faith, and that not of yourselves – it is the gift of God.
After the kindness and love of God our Saviour. (Titus 3:4-7)
And, as we search the scriptures for truth, we begin to realize that – in answer of a good conscience toward God, we should be water baptized /buried/immersed in the Name of the Lord Jesus Christ. (Acts 2:36-38; Romans 6:3-4; I Peter 3:21; Acts 10:44-48; Galatians 3:27)
This is the One and Only Name that was given to us in these last days –so that through the Name of JESUS, remission of our sins is possible. (Matthew 1:18-23)
We also know that the Name of JESUS is the ONLY NAME whereby we must be saved in this current dispensation of grace. (Acts 4:12) That the Name of JESUS is higher than every other name, including the names God used to identify Himself throughout the old testament. (Philippians 2:9)
Why? Because JESUS, as Peter standing with the eleven apostles said on the day of Pentecost, Jesus is both Lord and Christ. (Acts 2:36) The Son of man is the Lord from glory. The first man Adam being earthy, the second Adam being the Lord from heaven. As Jesus said, “If ye had known Me, ye should have known My Father also …” (John 14:6-12)
So be found complete "in Him, not having mine own righteousness which is of the law, but that which is through the faith of Christ, the righteousness which is of God by faith, that we might know Him and the power of His resurrection and the fellowship of His sufferings, being made conformable unto His death.” (Philippians 3:9)
“For our conversation is in heaven from whence also we look for the Saviour, the Lord Jesus Christ ... who shall change our vile body, that it may be fashioned like unto His glorious body, according tot eh working whereby He is able even to subdue all things unto Himself.” (Philippians 3:20-21)
Stand in the offering plate.
The greatest love story ever told– about one Shepherd who loved us so much that He would lay down His life for His sheep so that those of us who believe in Jesus by faith, can be redeemed through His precious blood shed on the cross.
Still, as we know from the scriptures, “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 1:10-13) But for those who love the Lord with all our heart, soul, mind and strength, we can stand firm on an issue, having put our hand to the plough, we press into the mark which is Christ, without turning back. (Mark 12:29-31; Deuteronomy 6:4)
“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 as it is in truth-- the Word of God which effectually works in you that believe …” (I Thessalonians 1:13)
We are therefore sanctified by truth – “Thy Word is truth.” (John 17:17)
Thus, if there is any spiritual/heavenly understanding that we should recognize, it is that God Himself opened the door of faith to the Gentiles – so that each and every one of us may be blessed from hearing His Word – if we open our hearts.
We know from the prophets from afore that God had intended to do a new thing in the new testament. A new work wherein we can all / everyone can freely receive His precious gift of salvation, wherein we are saved by grace through faith, and that not of yourselves – it is the gift of God.
After the kindness and love of God our Saviour. (Titus 3:4-7)
And, as we search the scriptures for truth, we begin to realize that – in answer of a good conscience toward God, we should be water baptized /buried/immersed in the Name of the Lord Jesus Christ. (Acts 2:36-38; Romans 6:3-4; I Peter 3:21; Acts 10:44-48; Galatians 3:27)
This is the One and Only Name that was given to us in these last days –so that through the Name of JESUS, remission of our sins is possible. (Matthew 1:18-23)
We also know that the Name of JESUS is the ONLY NAME whereby we must be saved in this current dispensation of grace. (Acts 4:12) That the Name of JESUS is higher than every other name, including the names God used to identify Himself throughout the old testament. (Philippians 2:9)
Why? Because JESUS, as Peter standing with the eleven apostles said on the day of Pentecost, Jesus is both Lord and Christ. (Acts 2:36) The Son of man is the Lord from glory. The first man Adam being earthy, the second Adam being the Lord from heaven. As Jesus said, “If ye had known Me, ye should have known My Father also …” (John 14:6-12)
So be found complete "in Him, not having mine own righteousness which is of the law, but that which is through the faith of Christ, the righteousness which is of God by faith, that we might know Him and the power of His resurrection and the fellowship of His sufferings, being made conformable unto His death.” (Philippians 3:9)
“For our conversation is in heaven from whence also we look for the Saviour, the Lord Jesus Christ ... who shall change our vile body, that it may be fashioned like unto His glorious body, according tot eh working whereby He is able even to subdue all things unto Himself.” (Philippians 3:20-21)
Stand in the offering plate.
Tuesday, June 13, 2017
For Ever I Lord, Thy Word Is Settled In Heaven - Part 1724
"Thy Word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path." (Psalm 119:105)
" ...to them that have obtained like precious faith with us through the righteousness of God and our Saviour Jesus Christ!" (II Peter 1:1)
Far too often, believers in the Lord Jesus Christ by faith settle for the traditions of men and worldly whims rather than studying the scriptures for their daily sustenance -- our daily Bread -- Jesus -- the Bread of life, which is, in essence, the Word of the Lord, whereby grace and peace can be multiplied unto you/us through the knowledge of God, and of Jesus our Lord. (II Peter 1:2)
You see, when we desire in our hearts to get to know Jesus as both our Lord and Saviour, and set out to study His Word as a workman doth unto God, (so that we can rightly divide the Word) we become knowledgeable in Him -- "according as His divine power hath given unto us ALL things that pertain to life and godliness, through the knowledge of Him that hath called to glory and virtue: wherefore are given unto us exceeding great and precious promises: that by these ye might be partakers of the divine nature ..." (II Peter 1:3-4)
But His promises do not end with escaping the corruption that is in the world. In fact, Simon Peter, a servant and an apostle of Jesus Christ continues, saying, "Besides this ..." That is, there are other reasons that should inspire us to pursue the press into the mark which is Christ Jesus
"And beside this, giving all diligence, add to your faith virtue; and to virtue, knowledge; and to knowledge, temperance patience [perseverance]; and to patience, godliness; and to godliness, brotherly kindness; and to brotherly kindness, charity. For if these things be in you, and abound, they make you that ye shall neither be barren nor unfruitful in the knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ." (II Peter 1:5-8)
In this way, we give diligence to our calling, making our election sure -- "for if we do these things, ye shall never fall: for so an entrance shall be ministered [supplied] unto you abundantly into the everlasting kingdom of our Lord and Saviour Jesus the Christ. Keep these in remembrance, and therefore, in so doing, be established in the present truth.
Moreover, walk in the light and have fellowship one with another, and the blood of Jesus Christ (God manifest in the flesh as a Son will cleanse us from all sin. And, if we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. He is able to make us conquerors in a fallen world, shining brightly so that we can be like a city on a hill to those who are lost.
Indeed, we have also a more sure word of prophecy -- where unto ye do well that ye take heed -- as unto "a light that shines in a dark place, until the day dawn, and the day star arise in your hearts." (II Peter 1:19)
"In Him was life, and the life was the light of men, and the light shines in darkness; and the darkness comprehended it not." (John 1:4-5) John the baptizer bore witness of that Light which was the true Light, which lighteth every man that comes into the world. How do we know? Because He was in the world and the world was made by Him and the world knew Him not. He came unto His own and His own received Him not. But as many as received Him -- JESUS -- to them gave He power to become the sons of God, [even] to them that believe on His Name. (John 1:10-12)
"For we preach not ourselves, but Christ Jesus the Lord, and ourselves your servants for Jesus' sake. For God who commanded the light to shine out of darkness, hath shined in our hearts, to give the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ!" (II Corinthians 4:4-6)
And because of this treasure in earthen vessels -- that the excellency of the power may be of God, and not of us, we have the same Spirit of faith that raised up the Lord Jesus dwelling within, the Holy Ghost and our Comforter, leading and guiding us into all truth.
And when we don't? Sadly, as Simon Peter writes, "he that lacketh these things is blind, and cannot see afar off, and hath forgotten that he was purged from his old sins." (II Peter 1:9)
Therefore, let's willingly search the scriptures for His truth, and be mindful of the words which were spoken before by the holy prophets, and of the commandment of the apostles of our Lord and Saviour. (II Peter 3:2)
Knowing also that "whosoever transgresses, and abides not in the doctrine of Christ, hath not God; he that abides in the doctrine of Christ, he hath both the Father and the Son. If there come any unto you, and bring not this doctrine, receive him not into your house, neither bid him God speed; for he that bids him God speed is partaker of his evil deeds. Having many things to write unto you, I would not write with paper and ink: but I trust to come unto you, and speak face to face -- that our joy may be full ..." (II John 1:9-12; III John 1:13-14)
Finally, as ye have therefore received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk ye in Him, rooted and built up and stablished in the faith, as ye have been taught, abounding therein with thanksgiving ... 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 2:6-9)
Stand in the offering plate.
" ...to them that have obtained like precious faith with us through the righteousness of God and our Saviour Jesus Christ!" (II Peter 1:1)
Far too often, believers in the Lord Jesus Christ by faith settle for the traditions of men and worldly whims rather than studying the scriptures for their daily sustenance -- our daily Bread -- Jesus -- the Bread of life, which is, in essence, the Word of the Lord, whereby grace and peace can be multiplied unto you/us through the knowledge of God, and of Jesus our Lord. (II Peter 1:2)
You see, when we desire in our hearts to get to know Jesus as both our Lord and Saviour, and set out to study His Word as a workman doth unto God, (so that we can rightly divide the Word) we become knowledgeable in Him -- "according as His divine power hath given unto us ALL things that pertain to life and godliness, through the knowledge of Him that hath called to glory and virtue: wherefore are given unto us exceeding great and precious promises: that by these ye might be partakers of the divine nature ..." (II Peter 1:3-4)
But His promises do not end with escaping the corruption that is in the world. In fact, Simon Peter, a servant and an apostle of Jesus Christ continues, saying, "Besides this ..." That is, there are other reasons that should inspire us to pursue the press into the mark which is Christ Jesus
"And beside this, giving all diligence, add to your faith virtue; and to virtue, knowledge; and to knowledge, temperance patience [perseverance]; and to patience, godliness; and to godliness, brotherly kindness; and to brotherly kindness, charity. For if these things be in you, and abound, they make you that ye shall neither be barren nor unfruitful in the knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ." (II Peter 1:5-8)
In this way, we give diligence to our calling, making our election sure -- "for if we do these things, ye shall never fall: for so an entrance shall be ministered [supplied] unto you abundantly into the everlasting kingdom of our Lord and Saviour Jesus the Christ. Keep these in remembrance, and therefore, in so doing, be established in the present truth.
Moreover, walk in the light and have fellowship one with another, and the blood of Jesus Christ (God manifest in the flesh as a Son will cleanse us from all sin. And, if we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. He is able to make us conquerors in a fallen world, shining brightly so that we can be like a city on a hill to those who are lost.
Indeed, we have also a more sure word of prophecy -- where unto ye do well that ye take heed -- as unto "a light that shines in a dark place, until the day dawn, and the day star arise in your hearts." (II Peter 1:19)
"In Him was life, and the life was the light of men, and the light shines in darkness; and the darkness comprehended it not." (John 1:4-5) John the baptizer bore witness of that Light which was the true Light, which lighteth every man that comes into the world. How do we know? Because He was in the world and the world was made by Him and the world knew Him not. He came unto His own and His own received Him not. But as many as received Him -- JESUS -- to them gave He power to become the sons of God, [even] to them that believe on His Name. (John 1:10-12)
"For we preach not ourselves, but Christ Jesus the Lord, and ourselves your servants for Jesus' sake. For God who commanded the light to shine out of darkness, hath shined in our hearts, to give the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ!" (II Corinthians 4:4-6)
And because of this treasure in earthen vessels -- that the excellency of the power may be of God, and not of us, we have the same Spirit of faith that raised up the Lord Jesus dwelling within, the Holy Ghost and our Comforter, leading and guiding us into all truth.
And when we don't? Sadly, as Simon Peter writes, "he that lacketh these things is blind, and cannot see afar off, and hath forgotten that he was purged from his old sins." (II Peter 1:9)
Therefore, let's willingly search the scriptures for His truth, and be mindful of the words which were spoken before by the holy prophets, and of the commandment of the apostles of our Lord and Saviour. (II Peter 3:2)
Knowing also that "whosoever transgresses, and abides not in the doctrine of Christ, hath not God; he that abides in the doctrine of Christ, he hath both the Father and the Son. If there come any unto you, and bring not this doctrine, receive him not into your house, neither bid him God speed; for he that bids him God speed is partaker of his evil deeds. Having many things to write unto you, I would not write with paper and ink: but I trust to come unto you, and speak face to face -- that our joy may be full ..." (II John 1:9-12; III John 1:13-14)
Finally, as ye have therefore received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk ye in Him, rooted and built up and stablished in the faith, as ye have been taught, abounding therein with thanksgiving ... 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 2:6-9)
Stand in the offering plate.
Sunday, June 11, 2017
"Wherefore God ALSO Hath Highly Exalted Him And Given Him A Name Which Is ABOVE Every Other Name ..." - Part 1723
"Now the birth of Jesus Christ was on this wise: When as His mother Mary was espoused to Joseph, before they came together, she was found with child of the Holy Ghost. Then Joseph her husband, being a just [man], and not willing to make her a publick example was minded to put her away privily. But while he thought on these things, behold, the angel of the Lord appeared unto him in a dream, saying, Joseph, thou son of David, fear not to take unto thee Mary thy wife; for that which is conceived in her is of the Holy Ghost.
And she shall bring forth a son, and thou halt call His Name JESUS, for He shall save His people from their sins. Now all this was done that it might be fulfilled which was spoken of the Lord by the prophet, saying, "Behold, a virgin shall be with child, and shall bring forth a son, and they shall call His Name Emmanuel, which being interpreted is God with us." ... and he called His Name JESUS." (Matthew 1:18-25)
"And the angel said unto her, "Fear not Mary, for thou hast found favour with God. And, behold, thou shalt conceive in thy womb and bring forth a son, and thou shalt call His Name JESUS. He shall be great and shall be called the Son of the Highest and the Lord God shall give unto Him the throne of His father David: and He shall reign over the house of Jacob for ever; and of His Kingdom there shall be no end.
Then said Mary unto the angel, "How shall this be, seeing I know not a man?" And the angel answered and said unto her, "The Holy Ghost shall come upon thee, and the power of the Highest shall overshadow thee; therefore, also that holy thing which shall be born of thee shall be called the Son of God ..." (Luke 1:30-35; Hebrews 1:1-2, 8; Isaiah 9:6; Isaiah 7:14; I Timothy 3:16)
In Hebrews, there is offered a further distinction between the old covenant and the new testament wherein with the angel came a multitude of the heavenly host praising God, and saying, "Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace and good will to all [men]." (Luke 2:14)
Up until now, the old covenant stood -- "The Holy Ghost this signifying that the way into the holiest of all was not yet made manifest while as the first tabernacle was yet standing ..." (Hebrews 9:8)
However, there were those waiting to see the Lord's Christ and therefore, for them, a new testament was on the horizon -- the Lord envisioning a brand new thing, wherein He Himself would become the perfect sacrifice -- the dayspring from on high visiting His people. A new testament whereby a purchase was made -- and the price of our salvation paid in full, once and for all, with His own precious, holy blood.
And for this cause, as we know from the scriptures, "He is the mediator of the new testament, that by means of death, for the redemption of the transgressions that were under the first testament, they which are called might receive the promise of eternal inheritance. For where a testament [is], there must also of necessity be the death of the testator. For a testament [is] of force after men are dead: otherwise, it is of no strength at all while the testator lives. Whereupon neither the first [testament] was dedicated without blood. for when Moses had spoken every precept to all the people according to the law, he took the blood of calves and of goats, with water, and scarlet wool, and hyssop, and sprinkled both the book, and all the people, saying, "This is the blood of the testament which God hath enjoined unto you. Moreover, he sprinkled with blood both the tabernacle, and all the vessels of the ministry and almost all things are by the law purged with blood; and without shedding of blood is no remission." (Hebrews 9:15-22)
This is why it was necessary that the patterns of things in the heavens should be purified with these; but the heavenly things themselves with better sacrifices than these ... for Christ is not entered into the holy places made with hands, which are the figures of the true, but into heaven itself, now to appear in the presence of God for us; nor yet that He should offer Himself often, as the high priest enters into the holy place every year with blood of others, for then must He often have suffered since the foundation of the world ..
... but now ONCE in the end of the world hath He appeared to put away sin by the sacrifice of Himself, and as it is appointed unto men once to die, but after this the judgment, so Christ was ONCE offered to bear the sins of many; and unto them that look for Him shall He appear the second time without sin unto salvation." (Hebrews 9:23-28)
O, blessed day! After the kindness and love of God, He became our Saviour. (Titus 3:4-7)
"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 it the inheritance be of the law, it is no more of promise but God gave it to Abraham by promise." (Galatians 3:17-18)
In this current dispensation of grace, Jesus is our Good Shepherd. He is the Bread of Life. (John 6:35) The Word made flesh. (John 1:1-18) Jesus -- the only door by which we can inherit salvation. Indeed, our inheritance depends on our heart reaction to our Lord and Saviour Jesus the Christ. The living bread which came down from heaven so that if any man eat of this bread, he shall live forever. (John 6:51)
To this end, Jesus invites us to come unto Him -- all ye who are weary and heavy laden. Yes, Jesus said, "I am the Way, the Truth, and the Life. No man comes to the Father but by Me." (John 14:6)
And similarly, as Jesus so clearly stated, "I am the Good Shepherd: the Good Shepherd gives His life for the sheep."(John 10:11, 14)
And just in case, some suppose that Jesus' life was taken from Him by the courts and soldiers of that day, note what Jesus said, even before the disciples had any idea what kind of sacrifice Jesus would make on the cross. Jesus said, "No man takes it from Me, but I lay it down of Myself. I have power to lay it down, and I have power to take it again. This commandment have I received of My Father." (John 10:18; John 2:19)
For God so loved the world ... (John 3:16)
Stand in the offering plate!
And the Scripture, Foreseeing That God Would Justify The Heathen Through Faith - Part 1722
"In hope of eternal life, which God that cannot lie, promised before the world began: but hath in due times manifested His Word through preaching, which is committed unto me, according to the commandment of God our Saviour ..." (Titus 1:2-3)
John tells us that the Word was made flesh and dwelt among us. (John 1:1-18) His Word -- the very SAME Word that the Lord God spoke from the very beginning, His Word -- the SAME WORD of the Lord which in times past spoke through the prophets, now in this dispensation of grace took on sin-prone flesh (while without sin) so that we -- His beloved -- might have life through Him. (Hebrews 1:1-13)
Therefore, as believers in Jesus Christ by faith, we rejoice always in Jesus Christ because of the love God displayed when He willingly became our Saviour, shedding His own precious holy blood on a cross so that we might have life through Him. (Titus 3:4-7) He Himself dwelt among us so that we might have salvation through Him. The greatest love story ever told! How then must He often have suffered since the foundation of the world; but now in the end of the world hath He appeared to put away sin by the sacrifice of Himself. (Hebrews 9:26)
God in Christ! "But of Him are ye in Christ Jesus, who of God is made unto us wisdom and righteousness and sanctification and redemption, that according, as it is written -- he that glorieth, let him glory in the Lord." (I Corinthians 1:30-31)
"For He hath made Him to be sin for us, who knew no sin, that we might be made the righteousness of God in Him." (II Corinthians 5:21)
This is why we "earnestly contend for the faith which was once delivered unto the saints" -- because Christ is not entered into the holy places made with hands (which are the figures of the true) but into heaven itself, now to appear in the presence of God for us ... so Christ was offered to bear the sins of many, and unto them that look for Him shall He appear the second time without sin unto salvation." (Jude 1:3; Hebrews 9:15-28)
" ... the mystery which hath been hid from ages and from generations but now is made manifest to His saints. To whom God would make known what [is the] riches of the glory of this mystery among the Gentiles, which is Christ in you -- the hope of glory." (Colossians 1:26-27)
The good news gospel wherein God displayed His glory for all the world to behold. The very SAME Christ which followed the Israelites through the Red Sea so that these would be saved is the very SAME Rock whom we know now to be JESUS in these last days -- for He shall save His people from their sins. (Matthew 1:21-23; I Corinthians 10:1-4)
The first man earthy but the second man the Lord of glory. And, as Isaiah spoke, He is indeed the Lord coming forth as a mighty man. (Isaiah 42:13; Isaiah 9:6)
How do we know? Because when God looked around the world for one who was worthy to become the "perfect sacrifice" there was no earthly being who could measure up. For all have sinned and fallen short of the glory of God. So, in considering the matter, He said instead, "Send Me!"
Therefore, God Himself became our High Priest (after the Order of Melchisedec/k) so that the ordinances of divine service and worldly sanctuary that were found in the first tabernacle could be satisfied once and for all through the blood of Jesus -- who 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 9:1-28)
"The Holy Ghost this signifying, that the way into the holiest of all was not yet made manifest while as the first tabernacle was yet standing ... 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." (Hebrews 9:8, 28)
Thus, there should be an inward desire to study the scriptures for His truth and wisdom and knowledge, whereby we as believers do not let the traditions of men, and worldly whims lead us away from that first love. Jesus said that He would never leave us nor forsake us -- that while He must leave, He would again come and dwell within our hearts. The ONE SPIRIT -- the Holy Ghost -- the SAME SPIRIT which moved across the face of the waters in Genesis is again regenerated in these last times -- the Spirit of Jesus / the testimony of Jesus being the Spirit of prophecy -- wants to lead and guide us into all truth. (Revelation 19:10; John 14:6-12. 26; John 15:26; Acts 1:2-3)
The SAME Holy Ghost which we receive when we repent and are water baptized in the precious Name of the Lord Jesus Christ -- the ONLY NAME given whereby we must be saved in this current dispensation of grace. (Acts 2:36-38; Acts 10:1-4; Titus 3:4-7; Acts 4:12; Philippians 2:9)
The Spirit of Jesus is the Great I AM who promised to never leave us nor forsake those who believe firmly in Him, with all their heart, soul, mind, and strength. (Deuteronomy 6:4; Mark 12:29-31) Even in persecution and difficult times, when the world is only intent on destroying His elect, let's stand together in one accord, as the first 3,000 born again into the new testament church did on the day of Pentecost.
And further, in this context, "only let our conversation be as it becomes the gospel of Christ ... that ye stand fast in ONE SPIRIT with one mind striving together for the faith of the gospel: and in nothing [no way] terrified by your adversaries: which is to them an evident token of perdition [destruction], but to you of salvation, and that of God. For unto you it is given in the behalf of Christ, not only to believe on Him, but also to suffer for His sake, having the same conflict which ye saw in me and now hear to be in me." (Philippians 1:27-30)
Remember also that He was clothed with a vesture dipped in blood: and His Name is called THE WORD OF GOD ... And He hath on His vesture and on His thigh a Name written: King of kings and Lord of lords. (Revelation 19:10, 13, 16) The first and the last, the beginning and the ending, Alpha and Omega -- the One and Only Lord God Almighty.
In this dispensation, His Name is JESUS, for He shall save His people from their sins -- God with us, who now as a consequence of His love and kindness dwells within us! (Matthew 1:21-23)
Stand in the offering plate.
John tells us that the Word was made flesh and dwelt among us. (John 1:1-18) His Word -- the very SAME Word that the Lord God spoke from the very beginning, His Word -- the SAME WORD of the Lord which in times past spoke through the prophets, now in this dispensation of grace took on sin-prone flesh (while without sin) so that we -- His beloved -- might have life through Him. (Hebrews 1:1-13)
Therefore, as believers in Jesus Christ by faith, we rejoice always in Jesus Christ because of the love God displayed when He willingly became our Saviour, shedding His own precious holy blood on a cross so that we might have life through Him. (Titus 3:4-7) He Himself dwelt among us so that we might have salvation through Him. The greatest love story ever told! How then must He often have suffered since the foundation of the world; but now in the end of the world hath He appeared to put away sin by the sacrifice of Himself. (Hebrews 9:26)
God in Christ! "But of Him are ye in Christ Jesus, who of God is made unto us wisdom and righteousness and sanctification and redemption, that according, as it is written -- he that glorieth, let him glory in the Lord." (I Corinthians 1:30-31)
"For He hath made Him to be sin for us, who knew no sin, that we might be made the righteousness of God in Him." (II Corinthians 5:21)
This is why we "earnestly contend for the faith which was once delivered unto the saints" -- because Christ is not entered into the holy places made with hands (which are the figures of the true) but into heaven itself, now to appear in the presence of God for us ... so Christ was offered to bear the sins of many, and unto them that look for Him shall He appear the second time without sin unto salvation." (Jude 1:3; Hebrews 9:15-28)
" ... the mystery which hath been hid from ages and from generations but now is made manifest to His saints. To whom God would make known what [is the] riches of the glory of this mystery among the Gentiles, which is Christ in you -- the hope of glory." (Colossians 1:26-27)
The good news gospel wherein God displayed His glory for all the world to behold. The very SAME Christ which followed the Israelites through the Red Sea so that these would be saved is the very SAME Rock whom we know now to be JESUS in these last days -- for He shall save His people from their sins. (Matthew 1:21-23; I Corinthians 10:1-4)
The first man earthy but the second man the Lord of glory. And, as Isaiah spoke, He is indeed the Lord coming forth as a mighty man. (Isaiah 42:13; Isaiah 9:6)
How do we know? Because when God looked around the world for one who was worthy to become the "perfect sacrifice" there was no earthly being who could measure up. For all have sinned and fallen short of the glory of God. So, in considering the matter, He said instead, "Send Me!"
Therefore, God Himself became our High Priest (after the Order of Melchisedec/k) so that the ordinances of divine service and worldly sanctuary that were found in the first tabernacle could be satisfied once and for all through the blood of Jesus -- who 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 9:1-28)
"The Holy Ghost this signifying, that the way into the holiest of all was not yet made manifest while as the first tabernacle was yet standing ... 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." (Hebrews 9:8, 28)
Thus, there should be an inward desire to study the scriptures for His truth and wisdom and knowledge, whereby we as believers do not let the traditions of men, and worldly whims lead us away from that first love. Jesus said that He would never leave us nor forsake us -- that while He must leave, He would again come and dwell within our hearts. The ONE SPIRIT -- the Holy Ghost -- the SAME SPIRIT which moved across the face of the waters in Genesis is again regenerated in these last times -- the Spirit of Jesus / the testimony of Jesus being the Spirit of prophecy -- wants to lead and guide us into all truth. (Revelation 19:10; John 14:6-12. 26; John 15:26; Acts 1:2-3)
The SAME Holy Ghost which we receive when we repent and are water baptized in the precious Name of the Lord Jesus Christ -- the ONLY NAME given whereby we must be saved in this current dispensation of grace. (Acts 2:36-38; Acts 10:1-4; Titus 3:4-7; Acts 4:12; Philippians 2:9)
The Spirit of Jesus is the Great I AM who promised to never leave us nor forsake those who believe firmly in Him, with all their heart, soul, mind, and strength. (Deuteronomy 6:4; Mark 12:29-31) Even in persecution and difficult times, when the world is only intent on destroying His elect, let's stand together in one accord, as the first 3,000 born again into the new testament church did on the day of Pentecost.
And further, in this context, "only let our conversation be as it becomes the gospel of Christ ... that ye stand fast in ONE SPIRIT with one mind striving together for the faith of the gospel: and in nothing [no way] terrified by your adversaries: which is to them an evident token of perdition [destruction], but to you of salvation, and that of God. For unto you it is given in the behalf of Christ, not only to believe on Him, but also to suffer for His sake, having the same conflict which ye saw in me and now hear to be in me." (Philippians 1:27-30)
Remember also that He was clothed with a vesture dipped in blood: and His Name is called THE WORD OF GOD ... And He hath on His vesture and on His thigh a Name written: King of kings and Lord of lords. (Revelation 19:10, 13, 16) The first and the last, the beginning and the ending, Alpha and Omega -- the One and Only Lord God Almighty.
In this dispensation, His Name is JESUS, for He shall save His people from their sins -- God with us, who now as a consequence of His love and kindness dwells within us! (Matthew 1:21-23)
Stand in the offering plate.
Saturday, June 10, 2017
Jesus Said, "Be Of Good Cheer, For As thou Hast Testified Of Me In Jerusalem, So Must thou Bear Witness Also Of Me At Rome" - Part 1721
"For we have found this man a pestilent [plague] [fellow] and a mover [creator] of sedition [dissension] among all the Jews throughout the world, and a ringleader of the sect of the Nazarenes." (Acts 24:5)
" ... whom I perceived to be accused of questions of their law, but to have nothing laid to his charge worthy of death or of bonds!" (Acts 23:29; Acts 18:15; Acts 25:19, 25; Acts 26:31)
"Let them therefore," said Festus, "which among you are able, go down with me, and accuse this man, if there be any wickedness in him." (Acts 25:5)
Herein, in Acts 25, we see a case being made against apostle Paul -- because he preached Jesus and His Kingdom everywhere he went. As the scripture states, Festus had just come into the province and after three days, he travels from Caesarea to Jerusalem. The high priest and the chief of the Jews inform him against Paul, and besought him, "and desired favour against him, that he would send for him to Jerusalem, laying wait in the way to kill him."
But Festus instead said that Paul should be kept at Caesarea, and that he himself would depart shortly thither. And he adds -- "Let them therefore, which among you are able, to go down with me, and accuse this man -- if -- there be any wickedness in him." (Acts 25:1-5)
Note the word -- if - herein. If there be any wickedness in apostle Paul, then let us accuse him. (Acts 24:5; I Peter 2:12, 15) We see a similar wickedness in the world from the beginning -- "And GOD saw that the wickedness of man was great in the earth, and that every imagination of the thoughts of his heart was only evil continually." (Genesis 6:5) Certainly, Job had a similar testimony and we know how he overcame his circumstance -- "Even as I have seen, they that plow iniquity, and sow wickedness, reap the same." (Job 4:8)
The point to remember here is that Jesus never leaves or forsakes those who believe in Him by faith, and He knows the hearts and mindset of their accusers -- every imagination of the thoughts that seek to destroy those who preach the gospel. But I digress somewhat.
So, after tarrying among them for ten days, Festus goes down to Caesarea: and the next day sitting on the judgment seat, commands that Paul be brought down. And when he was come, Jews which came down also from Jerusalem stood round about and laid many and grievous complaints against Paul, which, ironically, THEY COULD NOT PROVE.
Nevertheless, Paul answered these accusations for himself, confirming that -- "Neither against the law of the Jews, neither against the temple, nor yet against Caesar, have I offended any thing at all."
But Festus, willing to do the Jews a pleasure, answered Paul, and said, "With thou go up to Jerusalem, and there be judged of these things before me?" Then said Paul, "I stand at Caesar's judgment seat, where I ought to be judged: to the Jews have I done no wrong, as thou very well know ... for if I be an offender, or have committed any thing worthy of death, I refuse [do not object to dying] not to die: but if there be none of these things whereof these accuse me, no man may deliver me unto them -- I appeal unto Caesar." (Acts 25:11)
When Festus had conferred with the council, he said, "Hast thou appealed unto Caesar? unto Caesar shalt thou go."
And after certain days king Agrippa and Bernice came unto Caesarea to salute Festus. And when they had been there many days, Festus declared Paul's cause unto the king, saying, "There is a certain man left in bonds by Felix, about whom when I was at Jerusalem, the chief priests and the elders of the Jews informed me, desiring to have judgment against him. To whom I answered, "It is not the manner of the Romans to deliver any man to die, before that he which is accused have the accusers face to face, and have licence to answer for himself concerning the crime laid against him."
Therefore, when they were come hither, without any delay on the morrow, I sat on the judgment seat, and commanded the man to be brought forth. Against whom when the accusers stood up, they brought NONE accusation of such things as I supposed: but had certain questions against him of their own superstition [religion] and of one Jesus, which was dead, whom Paul affirmed to be alive. And because I doubted of such manner of questions, I asked him whether he would go to Jerusalem, and there be judged of these matters. But when Paul had appealed to be reserved unto the hearing of Augustus, I commanded him to be kept till I might send him to Caesar." (Acts 25:13-21)
Then Agrippa said unto Festus, "I would also hear the man myself. Tomorrow," said he, "thou shalt hear him." And on the morrow, when Agrippa was come, and Bernice, with great pomp, and was entered into the place of hearing, with the chief captains, and principal men of the city, at Festus' commandment Paul was brought forth.
And Festus said, "King Agrippa, and all men which are here present with us, ye see this man, about whom all the multitude of the Jews have dealt with me, both at Jerusalem, and also here, crying that he ought not to live any longer. But when I found that he had committed nothing worthy of death -- and that, he himself hath appealed to Augustus, I have determined to send him, of whom I have no certain thing to write unto my lord. Wherefore I have brought him forth before you, and specially before thee, O king Agrippa, that after examination had, I might have somewhat to write ... for it seems to me unreasonable to send a prisoner, and not withal to signify the crimes laid against him." (Acts 25:1-27)
As we know from other scriptures, Paul had oft been in a place of persecution before. And indeed, in one place, when the Sadducees and Pharisees and the other had come against him, Paul cried out in the council, "Men and brethren, I am a Pharisee, the son of a Pharisee: of the hope and resurrection of the dead am I called in question." And when he had said so, there arose a dissension between the Pharisees and the Sadducees: and the multitude was divided. For the Sadducees say that there is no resurrection, neither angel, nor s/Spirit: but the Pharisees confess both.
And there arose a great cry; and the scribes that were part of the Pharisees part arose and strove, saying, "We find no evil in this man: but if a Spirit or an angel hath spoken to him, let us not fight against God." But when there arose great dissension, so much so that the chief captain feared lest Paul should have been pulled in pieces of them, commanded the soldiers to go down, and take him by force and bring him into the castle [barracks]." (Acts 23:6-11)
Once again, accusations were being made but there was no verified/validated testimony that could be held against him, except that they "had certain questions against [Paul] of their own superstition [religion] and of one Jesus" whom these had crucified. It is important to note that not everyone was against Paul. (Acts 23:9) There were still those who believed that Paul had done nothing worthy of death or of bonds, and this counter is evident also within the scriptures. (Acts 23:29; Acts 26:31; Acts 25:11-12)
However, the point that I am trying to make this day is that believers in Jesus by faith are going to face trials and tribulations in this life. Jesus confirmed this would happen because --as He stated -- before they hated the Jesus in us, they hated Jesus first, and had Him crucified. And Paul was at the behest of these people, who in their effort to protect their established religion, determined to rid the world of Paul, and his profession of faith -- of this same Jesus who is both Lord and Christ.
Paul writes: "But thou hast fully known my doctrine, manner of life, purpose, faith, long suffering, charity, patience, persecutions, afflictions which came unto me at Antioch, at Iconium, at Lystra; what persecutions I endured: BUT OUT OF THEM ALL THE LORD DELIVERED ME. Yea [still] and ALL that will live godly in Christ Jesus shall suffer persecution, But evil men and seducers shall wax worse and worse, deceiving and being deceived." (II Timothy 3:10-13)
But as believers in the Lord Jesus Christ, we acknowledge that our hope is not of this world. Indeed, as persecuted Paul states, intending to edify and encourage those who are believers in Jesus by faith, who have grown in their faith, and been water baptized in His precious Name -- the Name of the Lord Jesus Christ -- those of us who are persecuted by the powers that be, we are to -- " ... continue thou in the things which thou hast learned and hast been assured of, knowing of whom thou hast learned [them]; and that from a child thou hast known the holy scriptures, which are able to make thee wise unto salvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus ... that the man of God may be made perfect, thoroughly furnished unto all good works." (II Timothy 3: 14-17; I Timothy 6:11; III Timothy 2:21; Romans 4:23; II Timothy 1:13; John 5:39; II Peter 1:20)
As Jesus said, "These things I have spoken unto you, that in Me ye might have peace. In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world." (John 16:33)
" ... whom I perceived to be accused of questions of their law, but to have nothing laid to his charge worthy of death or of bonds!" (Acts 23:29; Acts 18:15; Acts 25:19, 25; Acts 26:31)
"Let them therefore," said Festus, "which among you are able, go down with me, and accuse this man, if there be any wickedness in him." (Acts 25:5)
Herein, in Acts 25, we see a case being made against apostle Paul -- because he preached Jesus and His Kingdom everywhere he went. As the scripture states, Festus had just come into the province and after three days, he travels from Caesarea to Jerusalem. The high priest and the chief of the Jews inform him against Paul, and besought him, "and desired favour against him, that he would send for him to Jerusalem, laying wait in the way to kill him."
But Festus instead said that Paul should be kept at Caesarea, and that he himself would depart shortly thither. And he adds -- "Let them therefore, which among you are able, to go down with me, and accuse this man -- if -- there be any wickedness in him." (Acts 25:1-5)
Note the word -- if - herein. If there be any wickedness in apostle Paul, then let us accuse him. (Acts 24:5; I Peter 2:12, 15) We see a similar wickedness in the world from the beginning -- "And GOD saw that the wickedness of man was great in the earth, and that every imagination of the thoughts of his heart was only evil continually." (Genesis 6:5) Certainly, Job had a similar testimony and we know how he overcame his circumstance -- "Even as I have seen, they that plow iniquity, and sow wickedness, reap the same." (Job 4:8)
The point to remember here is that Jesus never leaves or forsakes those who believe in Him by faith, and He knows the hearts and mindset of their accusers -- every imagination of the thoughts that seek to destroy those who preach the gospel. But I digress somewhat.
So, after tarrying among them for ten days, Festus goes down to Caesarea: and the next day sitting on the judgment seat, commands that Paul be brought down. And when he was come, Jews which came down also from Jerusalem stood round about and laid many and grievous complaints against Paul, which, ironically, THEY COULD NOT PROVE.
Nevertheless, Paul answered these accusations for himself, confirming that -- "Neither against the law of the Jews, neither against the temple, nor yet against Caesar, have I offended any thing at all."
But Festus, willing to do the Jews a pleasure, answered Paul, and said, "With thou go up to Jerusalem, and there be judged of these things before me?" Then said Paul, "I stand at Caesar's judgment seat, where I ought to be judged: to the Jews have I done no wrong, as thou very well know ... for if I be an offender, or have committed any thing worthy of death, I refuse [do not object to dying] not to die: but if there be none of these things whereof these accuse me, no man may deliver me unto them -- I appeal unto Caesar." (Acts 25:11)
When Festus had conferred with the council, he said, "Hast thou appealed unto Caesar? unto Caesar shalt thou go."
And after certain days king Agrippa and Bernice came unto Caesarea to salute Festus. And when they had been there many days, Festus declared Paul's cause unto the king, saying, "There is a certain man left in bonds by Felix, about whom when I was at Jerusalem, the chief priests and the elders of the Jews informed me, desiring to have judgment against him. To whom I answered, "It is not the manner of the Romans to deliver any man to die, before that he which is accused have the accusers face to face, and have licence to answer for himself concerning the crime laid against him."
Therefore, when they were come hither, without any delay on the morrow, I sat on the judgment seat, and commanded the man to be brought forth. Against whom when the accusers stood up, they brought NONE accusation of such things as I supposed: but had certain questions against him of their own superstition [religion] and of one Jesus, which was dead, whom Paul affirmed to be alive. And because I doubted of such manner of questions, I asked him whether he would go to Jerusalem, and there be judged of these matters. But when Paul had appealed to be reserved unto the hearing of Augustus, I commanded him to be kept till I might send him to Caesar." (Acts 25:13-21)
Then Agrippa said unto Festus, "I would also hear the man myself. Tomorrow," said he, "thou shalt hear him." And on the morrow, when Agrippa was come, and Bernice, with great pomp, and was entered into the place of hearing, with the chief captains, and principal men of the city, at Festus' commandment Paul was brought forth.
And Festus said, "King Agrippa, and all men which are here present with us, ye see this man, about whom all the multitude of the Jews have dealt with me, both at Jerusalem, and also here, crying that he ought not to live any longer. But when I found that he had committed nothing worthy of death -- and that, he himself hath appealed to Augustus, I have determined to send him, of whom I have no certain thing to write unto my lord. Wherefore I have brought him forth before you, and specially before thee, O king Agrippa, that after examination had, I might have somewhat to write ... for it seems to me unreasonable to send a prisoner, and not withal to signify the crimes laid against him." (Acts 25:1-27)
As we know from other scriptures, Paul had oft been in a place of persecution before. And indeed, in one place, when the Sadducees and Pharisees and the other had come against him, Paul cried out in the council, "Men and brethren, I am a Pharisee, the son of a Pharisee: of the hope and resurrection of the dead am I called in question." And when he had said so, there arose a dissension between the Pharisees and the Sadducees: and the multitude was divided. For the Sadducees say that there is no resurrection, neither angel, nor s/Spirit: but the Pharisees confess both.
And there arose a great cry; and the scribes that were part of the Pharisees part arose and strove, saying, "We find no evil in this man: but if a Spirit or an angel hath spoken to him, let us not fight against God." But when there arose great dissension, so much so that the chief captain feared lest Paul should have been pulled in pieces of them, commanded the soldiers to go down, and take him by force and bring him into the castle [barracks]." (Acts 23:6-11)
Once again, accusations were being made but there was no verified/validated testimony that could be held against him, except that they "had certain questions against [Paul] of their own superstition [religion] and of one Jesus" whom these had crucified. It is important to note that not everyone was against Paul. (Acts 23:9) There were still those who believed that Paul had done nothing worthy of death or of bonds, and this counter is evident also within the scriptures. (Acts 23:29; Acts 26:31; Acts 25:11-12)
However, the point that I am trying to make this day is that believers in Jesus by faith are going to face trials and tribulations in this life. Jesus confirmed this would happen because --as He stated -- before they hated the Jesus in us, they hated Jesus first, and had Him crucified. And Paul was at the behest of these people, who in their effort to protect their established religion, determined to rid the world of Paul, and his profession of faith -- of this same Jesus who is both Lord and Christ.
Paul writes: "But thou hast fully known my doctrine, manner of life, purpose, faith, long suffering, charity, patience, persecutions, afflictions which came unto me at Antioch, at Iconium, at Lystra; what persecutions I endured: BUT OUT OF THEM ALL THE LORD DELIVERED ME. Yea [still] and ALL that will live godly in Christ Jesus shall suffer persecution, But evil men and seducers shall wax worse and worse, deceiving and being deceived." (II Timothy 3:10-13)
But as believers in the Lord Jesus Christ, we acknowledge that our hope is not of this world. Indeed, as persecuted Paul states, intending to edify and encourage those who are believers in Jesus by faith, who have grown in their faith, and been water baptized in His precious Name -- the Name of the Lord Jesus Christ -- those of us who are persecuted by the powers that be, we are to -- " ... continue thou in the things which thou hast learned and hast been assured of, knowing of whom thou hast learned [them]; and that from a child thou hast known the holy scriptures, which are able to make thee wise unto salvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus ... that the man of God may be made perfect, thoroughly furnished unto all good works." (II Timothy 3: 14-17; I Timothy 6:11; III Timothy 2:21; Romans 4:23; II Timothy 1:13; John 5:39; II Peter 1:20)
As Jesus said, "These things I have spoken unto you, that in Me ye might have peace. In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world." (John 16:33)
Why? Because we have a higher purpose than the world, and as such, "we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God ordained that we should walk in them ... now in Christ Jesus, ye who sometimes were far off are made nigh by the blood of Jesus!" (Ephesians 2:10-13; Isaiah 19:25; Galatians 6:15)
"Nay, in all these things we are more than conquerors though Him that loved us, for I am persuaded that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor powers, nor things present, nor things to come, nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature shall be able to separate us from the love of God -- which is in Christ Jesus our Lord." (Romans 8:37-39)
Thus, in everything that we do, do in the Name of the Lord Jesus, having our conversation honest among the Gentiles; that, whereas they speak against you as evildoers, they may by your good works, which they shall behold, glorify God in the day of visitation.
Throughout it all, regardless of what the world throws at us, we can rest knowing that there is nothing that the world can throw at us that Jesus does not already have covered. Therefore, fight the good fight, and finish your course knowing that you have kept the faith, ad will receive that crown of righteousness which the Lord has laid up for us. (II Timothy 4:7-8)
Stand in the offering plate.
Thus, in everything that we do, do in the Name of the Lord Jesus, having our conversation honest among the Gentiles; that, whereas they speak against you as evildoers, they may by your good works, which they shall behold, glorify God in the day of visitation.
Throughout it all, regardless of what the world throws at us, we can rest knowing that there is nothing that the world can throw at us that Jesus does not already have covered. Therefore, fight the good fight, and finish your course knowing that you have kept the faith, ad will receive that crown of righteousness which the Lord has laid up for us. (II Timothy 4:7-8)
Stand in the offering plate.
Thursday, June 8, 2017
If We Stand In His Counsel, His People Will Hear His Words That He Is Not A God Afar But That He Desires To Walk With Us And Talk With Us In Fellowship - Part 1720
"For unto us a child is born; unto us a son is given, and the government shall be upon His shoulder: and His Name shall be called Wonderful, Counselor, the mighty God, the everlasting Father, the Prince of Peace." (Isaiah 9:6)
"To the only wise God our Saviour, [be] glory and majesty, dominion and power, both now and ever. Amen." (Jude 1:25)
"The mystery of godliness ... God manifest in the flesh ..." (I Timothy 3:16)
Further to this point, apostle Paul confirms the same message to the saints at Ephesus. That is, "One Lord, One Faith, One Baptism. One God and Father of all, who is above all, and through all, and in you all." (Ephesians 4:5-6)
"Thus saith the LORD the King of Israel, and His Redeemer the LORD of hosts; I [am] the First, and I [am] the Last; and beside Me [there is] no God." (Isaiah 44:6)
"I, [even] I, [am] the LORD; and beside Me [there is] no Saviour." (Isaiah 43:11)
There is much more but let this suffice for this day. Let those with ears to hear and eyes to see Lord understand how much more you have established for those who love you. Stand in the offering plate with the Lord our righteousness, for He will never leave you nor forsake you!
"The mystery of godliness ... God manifest in the flesh ..." (I Timothy 3:16)
Over time, believers in the Lord Jesus Christ have been told that doctrine is inconsequential, and in so doing, we have witnessed a gradual decline in teachings which come directly from the Word of the Lord God. Because of this, false teachings and traditions of men have been adopted as truth, and sadly, caused many to be led astray. Still, as believers in Jesus by faith, it is important to understand that He has gladly and willingly and lovingly -- "chosen and ordained" us so that we can move forward fully armed with the armour of God, being sanctified by His truth. And as Jesus stated -- "Thy Word is truth!" (John 17:17)
But the good news gospel message does not stop there. We have the benefit of the Holy Ghost -- the Spirit of the risen Jesus living within to lead and guide us into all truth, so that when we are confronted with teachings that are not scriptural, we can understand what is right, by virtue of knowing that THE WORD AND THE SPIRIT AGREE!
As Jesus said, the Comforter -- the Holy Ghost -- which would come after He was taken up -- "He shall teach you all things and bring all things to your remembrance, whatsoever I [Jesus] have said unto you." (John 14:26; John 15:26; Acts 2:36-38) The Spirit of truth, whom the world cannot receive because it sees Him not -- can now abide in our hearts as our all in all. (John 14:17; II John 2:9)
The difficulty for believers is the lack of teaching from the Word. Even the first commandment -- "Hear O Israel, the Lord thy God is ONE LORD" and that we are to love the Lord with all our heart, soul, mind, and strength, we default far too often to the second -- namely, to love one another. (Deuteronomy 6:4; Mark 12:29-31)
And no, I am not suggesting that we should not love one another. But at the very least we should understand that there is One God and that this ONE AND SAME GOD willingly became our Saviour. (Titus 3:4-7) And that this is the mystery which was held from the beginning of the world. The song -- How Deep the Father's Love For Us -- comes to mind. If we only understood how precious we are to our Creator, but I digress.
What I am trying to say is that many of us have not been taught about the doctrine of Christ. (Hebrews 6:1-2) Instead, many of our traditional mainline churches have adhered to a FALSE trinity doctrine -- as if god could possibly be three persons -- even when the premise for this belief cannot be substantiated in the scriptures.
What is worse is that because of false teachings such as this, we have seen "God in Christ" and "the fullness of the Godhead dwelt bodily [in Him" reduced to a god - a small g god. We are not taught that CHRIST JESUS IS THE ONE TRUE LORD ALMIGHTY GOD AND FATHER. We are not told that JESUS who shall save the world from sin is indeed the King of kings and Lord of lords, and that some day every knee will bow and confess that Jesus is Lord, to the glory of the Father. (Revelation 1:8, 11) And too often, by teaching "another gospel," these will NOT acknowledge Jesus' own words when He declared to His disciples, "I AND My Father are ONE!" (John 10:30)
Neither will these accept Jesus' words to Philip, when Jesus said unto him, "If ye had known Me, ye should have known My Father also: and from henceforth ye know Him and have seen Him." (John 14:6-12; I Timothy 3:16) Even when Philip subsequently asks Jesus -- "Lord, shew us the Father and it suffices us," how does Jesus respond? Note that Jesus said unto him, "Have I been so long time with you, and yet, hast thou not known Me, Philip? he that hath seen Me hath seen the Father, and the Father in Me?" (John 14:9)
But the good news gospel message does not stop there. We have the benefit of the Holy Ghost -- the Spirit of the risen Jesus living within to lead and guide us into all truth, so that when we are confronted with teachings that are not scriptural, we can understand what is right, by virtue of knowing that THE WORD AND THE SPIRIT AGREE!
As Jesus said, the Comforter -- the Holy Ghost -- which would come after He was taken up -- "He shall teach you all things and bring all things to your remembrance, whatsoever I [Jesus] have said unto you." (John 14:26; John 15:26; Acts 2:36-38) The Spirit of truth, whom the world cannot receive because it sees Him not -- can now abide in our hearts as our all in all. (John 14:17; II John 2:9)
The difficulty for believers is the lack of teaching from the Word. Even the first commandment -- "Hear O Israel, the Lord thy God is ONE LORD" and that we are to love the Lord with all our heart, soul, mind, and strength, we default far too often to the second -- namely, to love one another. (Deuteronomy 6:4; Mark 12:29-31)
And no, I am not suggesting that we should not love one another. But at the very least we should understand that there is One God and that this ONE AND SAME GOD willingly became our Saviour. (Titus 3:4-7) And that this is the mystery which was held from the beginning of the world. The song -- How Deep the Father's Love For Us -- comes to mind. If we only understood how precious we are to our Creator, but I digress.
What I am trying to say is that many of us have not been taught about the doctrine of Christ. (Hebrews 6:1-2) Instead, many of our traditional mainline churches have adhered to a FALSE trinity doctrine -- as if god could possibly be three persons -- even when the premise for this belief cannot be substantiated in the scriptures.
What is worse is that because of false teachings such as this, we have seen "God in Christ" and "the fullness of the Godhead dwelt bodily [in Him" reduced to a god - a small g god. We are not taught that CHRIST JESUS IS THE ONE TRUE LORD ALMIGHTY GOD AND FATHER. We are not told that JESUS who shall save the world from sin is indeed the King of kings and Lord of lords, and that some day every knee will bow and confess that Jesus is Lord, to the glory of the Father. (Revelation 1:8, 11) And too often, by teaching "another gospel," these will NOT acknowledge Jesus' own words when He declared to His disciples, "I AND My Father are ONE!" (John 10:30)
Neither will these accept Jesus' words to Philip, when Jesus said unto him, "If ye had known Me, ye should have known My Father also: and from henceforth ye know Him and have seen Him." (John 14:6-12; I Timothy 3:16) Even when Philip subsequently asks Jesus -- "Lord, shew us the Father and it suffices us," how does Jesus respond? Note that Jesus said unto him, "Have I been so long time with you, and yet, hast thou not known Me, Philip? he that hath seen Me hath seen the Father, and the Father in Me?" (John 14:9)
In this same conversation with Philip, Jesus goes on to say: "Believe thou not that I am in the Father and the Father in Me? The words that I speak unto you, I speak not of Myself; but the Father that dwells in Me, He doth the works. Believe Me that I [am] in the Father, and the Father in Me; or else believe Me for the very works' sake." (John 14:9-12)
As we read further in John 14, we see Jesus later explaining how He must leave in order for the Comforter -- the Holy Ghost -- to come but states also in the same conversation that He will never leave you nor forsake you. Jesus states, "I will not leave you comfortless. I will come to you." (John 14:13-18) And, as we later understand as well, after Jesus is taken up, Jesus then THROUGH the Holy Ghost then gave His commandments unto the apostles whom He had chosen. (Acts 1:2-3' Acts 2:1-47)
[As an aside, apostle Paul clearly details who is the last to see Jesus in I Corinthians 15:1-8 -- "and last of all He was seen of me also, as of one born out of due time.]
[As an aside, apostle Paul clearly details who is the last to see Jesus in I Corinthians 15:1-8 -- "and last of all He was seen of me also, as of one born out of due time.]
But the traditions of men do not want us to -- "hear ye Him" as we are instructed to do throughout scripture in this current dispensation of grace. (John 3:16) We have not been instructed by those in leadership positions that "Lo, the volume of the book is written of Me!" And that, in these last days God spoke to His people (specifically, in this generation) by [His] Son, whom He hath appointed Heir of all things, by whom also He hath made the worlds; who being the brightness of [His] glory, and the express image of His person, and upholding all things by the Word of His power, when He had by Himself purged our sins, sat down on the right hand of the Majesty on high; being made so much better than the angels, as He hath by inheritance obtained a more excellent Name than they -- the first begotten in[to] the world." (Hebrews 1:1-13; Isaiah 7:14; Isaiah 6:8; Matthew 1:21-23; Luke 1:31-35; John 1:45; Revelation 12:5; Isaiah 8:8-10)
Indeed, for the same God who "is with us" now dwells within us as the Comforter, when we repent and ask Jesus to be our Lord and Saviour. We know this in our hearts because the scripture is true -- "... the voice of the Lord [having said], "Whom shall I send and who will go for us?" Then said I -- "Hear [am] I; send Me." (Isaiah 6:8)
The first Adam was earthy but the second Adam was the Lord from heaven. The Lord Himself came forth as a mighty man. (Isaiah 42:13)
Like the rich man looking for a wife in this day and age, the Lord wants to know that His beloved loves Him for who He is, and not just because of the blessings that can be bestowed upon us. In other words, God did not send another, but rather, robed Himself in flesh, having hid His glory from those who would not believe that Jesus was the He, so that He could extend His invitation to us -- to come.
"Come now, and let us reason together," saith the Lord, "though your sins be as scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they be red like crimson, they shall be as wool." (Isaiah 1:18; Isaiah 43:26; Psalm 51:7)
The Lord gave His right arm for salvation.
"And thus saith the Lord, who redeemed Abraham concerning the house of Jacob, Jacob shall not now be ashamed, neither shall his face now wax pale. But when he sees his children, the work of Mine hands in the midst of him, they shall sanctify My Name, and sanctify the Holy One of Jacob and shall fear the God of Israel. They also that erred in spirit shall come to understanding, and they that murmured shall learn doctrine." (Isaiah 30:22-24; Isiah 45:11, 17; Isaiah 49:20-26)
But we have not been taught per se that after the kindness and love of God, He willingly became our Saviour. (Titus 3:4-7) Very few have proclaimed that Almighty God was manifest in the flesh. (I Timothy 3:16) Or, that the Lord came forth as a mighty man. (Isaiah 42:13) His true identity hid from the world so that He could personally deliver to us His free gift of salvation. Yes, He paid the ultimate price with His precious holy blood on the cross. He willingly clothed Himself in a sin-prone flesh (yet without sin) so that we could be redeemed through His blood shed on the cross.
It is from His grace and mercy that we are saved, and that not of ourselves -- it is the gift of God. But in order to be saved, we need to believe that Jesus is the Light of the world, and that whosoever believes in Him should not abide in darkness. (John 13:44-50)
Just as Jesus said, "And as Moses lifted up the serpent in the wilderness, even so must the Son of man be lifted up -- that WHOSOEVER BELIEVES IN HIM should not perish, but have eternal life. For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that WHOSOEVER BELIEVES IN HIM should not perish, but have eternal life. For God sent not His Son into the world to condemn the world; but that the world through Him might be saved ... he that BELIEVES ON HIM is not condemned, but he that believes not is condemned already, because he hath not believed in the NAME OF THE ONLY BEGOTTEN SON OF GOD. And this is the condemnation -- that light is come into the world, and men loved darkness rather than light, because their deeds were evil ..." (John 3:14-18; John 8:28; John 12:34; John 19:18; John 6:40, 47; John 3:36; Romans 5:8, 24; Isaiah 9:6; John 5:24; Luke 9:56; John 1-18; Ephesians 5:11, 13)
"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)
From the very beginning, God had a salvation plan, and today He is looking for those who will search His Word for truth and clarity so that once again the believing community can be in one accord -- as the first 3,000 saved were in one accord on the day of Pentecost. (Acts 2:36-47)
And in so doing, we too can understand the breadth and depth of love that our Creator has for His beloved creation. This SAME Jesus whom ye have crucified being BOTH LORD AND CHRIST. (Acts 2:36) And that, it is for this reason that God, in offering Himself as our Saviour for all the world to behold took upon Himself our sins so that we might have salvation in Him. His love and grace abounding, if we would only turn to Him -- our Lord God and Saviour Jesus the Christ -- who is the King of kings and Lord of lords.
And while there will still be many proclaiming that at Jesus' baptism, the voice that is heard is from another third of God dwelling elsewhere, those who search the scriptures will know that voice was for John the baptizer's benefit. (John 1:23-33) And similarly, that Jesus told His disciples that "this voice came not because of Me, but because of your sakes. Now is the judgment of this world; now shall the prince of this world be cast out, and I, if I be lifted up from the earth, will draw all [men] unto Me." (John 12:30-32)
And lo a voice from heaven, saying, "This is My beloved Son in whom I am well pleased!" (Matthew 3:17; John 12:28; Psalm 2:7) It is no wonder the voice sounded like thunder when Jesus cried out -- "Father, glorify Thy name." (John 12:28-29)
Indeed, for the same God who "is with us" now dwells within us as the Comforter, when we repent and ask Jesus to be our Lord and Saviour. We know this in our hearts because the scripture is true -- "... the voice of the Lord [having said], "Whom shall I send and who will go for us?" Then said I -- "Hear [am] I; send Me." (Isaiah 6:8)
The first Adam was earthy but the second Adam was the Lord from heaven. The Lord Himself came forth as a mighty man. (Isaiah 42:13)
Like the rich man looking for a wife in this day and age, the Lord wants to know that His beloved loves Him for who He is, and not just because of the blessings that can be bestowed upon us. In other words, God did not send another, but rather, robed Himself in flesh, having hid His glory from those who would not believe that Jesus was the He, so that He could extend His invitation to us -- to come.
"Come now, and let us reason together," saith the Lord, "though your sins be as scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they be red like crimson, they shall be as wool." (Isaiah 1:18; Isaiah 43:26; Psalm 51:7)
The Lord gave His right arm for salvation.
"And thus saith the Lord, who redeemed Abraham concerning the house of Jacob, Jacob shall not now be ashamed, neither shall his face now wax pale. But when he sees his children, the work of Mine hands in the midst of him, they shall sanctify My Name, and sanctify the Holy One of Jacob and shall fear the God of Israel. They also that erred in spirit shall come to understanding, and they that murmured shall learn doctrine." (Isaiah 30:22-24; Isiah 45:11, 17; Isaiah 49:20-26)
But we have not been taught per se that after the kindness and love of God, He willingly became our Saviour. (Titus 3:4-7) Very few have proclaimed that Almighty God was manifest in the flesh. (I Timothy 3:16) Or, that the Lord came forth as a mighty man. (Isaiah 42:13) His true identity hid from the world so that He could personally deliver to us His free gift of salvation. Yes, He paid the ultimate price with His precious holy blood on the cross. He willingly clothed Himself in a sin-prone flesh (yet without sin) so that we could be redeemed through His blood shed on the cross.
It is from His grace and mercy that we are saved, and that not of ourselves -- it is the gift of God. But in order to be saved, we need to believe that Jesus is the Light of the world, and that whosoever believes in Him should not abide in darkness. (John 13:44-50)
Just as Jesus said, "And as Moses lifted up the serpent in the wilderness, even so must the Son of man be lifted up -- that WHOSOEVER BELIEVES IN HIM should not perish, but have eternal life. For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that WHOSOEVER BELIEVES IN HIM should not perish, but have eternal life. For God sent not His Son into the world to condemn the world; but that the world through Him might be saved ... he that BELIEVES ON HIM is not condemned, but he that believes not is condemned already, because he hath not believed in the NAME OF THE ONLY BEGOTTEN SON OF GOD. And this is the condemnation -- that light is come into the world, and men loved darkness rather than light, because their deeds were evil ..." (John 3:14-18; John 8:28; John 12:34; John 19:18; John 6:40, 47; John 3:36; Romans 5:8, 24; Isaiah 9:6; John 5:24; Luke 9:56; John 1-18; Ephesians 5:11, 13)
"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)
From the very beginning, God had a salvation plan, and today He is looking for those who will search His Word for truth and clarity so that once again the believing community can be in one accord -- as the first 3,000 saved were in one accord on the day of Pentecost. (Acts 2:36-47)
And in so doing, we too can understand the breadth and depth of love that our Creator has for His beloved creation. This SAME Jesus whom ye have crucified being BOTH LORD AND CHRIST. (Acts 2:36) And that, it is for this reason that God, in offering Himself as our Saviour for all the world to behold took upon Himself our sins so that we might have salvation in Him. His love and grace abounding, if we would only turn to Him -- our Lord God and Saviour Jesus the Christ -- who is the King of kings and Lord of lords.
And while there will still be many proclaiming that at Jesus' baptism, the voice that is heard is from another third of God dwelling elsewhere, those who search the scriptures will know that voice was for John the baptizer's benefit. (John 1:23-33) And similarly, that Jesus told His disciples that "this voice came not because of Me, but because of your sakes. Now is the judgment of this world; now shall the prince of this world be cast out, and I, if I be lifted up from the earth, will draw all [men] unto Me." (John 12:30-32)
And lo a voice from heaven, saying, "This is My beloved Son in whom I am well pleased!" (Matthew 3:17; John 12:28; Psalm 2:7) It is no wonder the voice sounded like thunder when Jesus cried out -- "Father, glorify Thy name." (John 12:28-29)
Seek the ONE LORD AND SAVIOUR today and hear Him. (Titus 3:4-7) Hear His voice too when Jesus states -- "I am Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the ending, saith the Lord, which is, and which was, and which is to come, the Almighty." (Revelation 1:8, 11)
Hear this same Lord God who prepared for Himself a body for sacrifice, as prophesied by the prophets from afore. This SAME JESUS whom ye have crucified is now, as Peter standing with the eleven declared -- "both Lord and Christ." (Acts 2:36-38) And just to ensure there is no confusion, this same Lord came forth as a mighty man. (Isaiah 42:13)
Hear His Word today, and stand in the counsel of the Lord, because "happy is that people, that is in such a case: yea, happy is that people, whose God is the LORD." (Psalms 144:15)
Hear His Word today, and stand in the counsel of the Lord, because "happy is that people, that is in such a case: yea, happy is that people, whose God is the LORD." (Psalms 144:15)
"Blessed is the nation whose God is the LORD; and the people whom He hath chosen for His own inheritance." (Psalms 33:12)
"God is the LORD, which hath shewed us light: bind the sacrifice with cords, even unto the horns of the altar." (Psalms 118:27)
And we who believe in the Lord Jesus by faith, and go on to be water baptized in His Name -- the Name of the Lord Jesus -- "Ye [are] My witnesses," saith the LORD, "and My servant whom I have chosen: that ye may know and believe Me, and understand that I [am] He: before Me there was no God formed, neither shall there be after Me." (Isaiah 43:10)"God is the LORD, which hath shewed us light: bind the sacrifice with cords, even unto the horns of the altar." (Psalms 118:27)
"For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son THAT WHOSOEVER BELIEVES IN HIM should not perish but have everlasting life." (John 3:16)
Don't be swayed by the traditions of men that is being presented as sound doctrine. The first commandment tells us there is ONE GOD and ONE GOD only. And this same first commandment confirmed also by Jesus on the new testament side states: "The first of all the commandments is -- Hear O Israel the Lord thy God is ONE Lord. And thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind and with all thy strength. This is the first commandment." (Mark 12:29-30; Deuteronomy 6:4)
Further to this point, apostle Paul confirms the same message to the saints at Ephesus. That is, "One Lord, One Faith, One Baptism. One God and Father of all, who is above all, and through all, and in you all." (Ephesians 4:5-6)
God manifest in the flesh. (I Timothy 3:16) God became our Saviour. (Titus 3:4-7)
"I, [even] I, [am] the LORD; and beside Me [there is] no Saviour." (Isaiah 43:11)
There is much more but let this suffice for this day. Let those with ears to hear and eyes to see Lord understand how much more you have established for those who love you. Stand in the offering plate with the Lord our righteousness, for He will never leave you nor forsake you!
Tuesday, June 6, 2017
Sing Unto The Lord, O Ye Saints of His, And Give Thanks At The Remembrance Of His Holiness - Part 1719
In one place, Jesus is saying that there will be a day come,
when “ye shall seek Me, and shall not find [Me]; and where I AM, thither ye
cannot come.” (John 7:35-36) Of course, this dialogue has confused the Jews who
are now seen asking one another – “Whither will He go that we shall not find
Him? Will He go unto the dispersed among the Gentiles, and teach the Gentiles?”
Even the thought of the Gentiles being adopted must have been disconcerting to
them.
Nevertheless, in the last day, that great day of the feast,
Jesus cried, saying, “If any man thirst let him come unto Me, and drink. He
that believes on Me, as the scripture hath said, “Out of his belly shall flow
rivers of living water.” (John 7:35-38)
But the established scripture which encompasses Jesus oft
stated message to come unto Him does not end there. The scripture continues
with a highlight in parenthesis, which states – (But this spake He of the
Spirit, which they that believe on Him should receive; for the Holy Ghost was
not yet [given]; because that Jesus was not yet glorified.” (John 7:39)
This latter scripture alone should be sufficient to clarify
that the Holy Ghost could not be given until after Jesus was glorified, and
therefore, as Jesus states in another place, had to be taken up first before the
Holy Ghost could be given unto them that believe.
However, just in case, we further see this critical
understanding of the Godhead firmly established in Acts 1 which states:
“Until the day in which He [JESUS] was taken up, AFTER THAT
HE [JESUS] THROUGH THE HOLY GHOST HAD GIVEN COMMANDMENTS UNTO THE APOSTLES WHOM
HE [JESUS] HAD CHOSEN; TO WHOM ALSO HE [JESUS] SHEWED HIMSELF ALIVE AFTER HIS
PASSION BY MANY INFALLIBLE PROOFS, being seen of them [His apostles] forty days
and speaking of the things pertaining to the Kingdom of God: and being
assembled together with them, commanded them [His apostles] that they should
not depart from Jerusalem but wait for the promise of the Father, “which”
[saith He], “ye have heard of Me. For John truly baptized with water: but ye
shall be baptized with the Holy Ghost not many days hence.”
The promise was the Comforter “which is the Holy Ghost whom”
as Jesus stated in John 14:26 “the Father will send in My Name [the Name of
JESUS], He shall teach you all things, and bring all things to your remembrance
– whatsoever I [JESUS] have said unto you.” (John 14:26)
Later, Jesus states, “But when the Comforter is come, whom I
will send unto you from the Father, [even] the Spirit of truth which proceeds
from the Father, He shall testify of Me, and ye also shall bear witness because
ye have been with Me from the beginning.” (John 15:26)
And again, Jesus tells His disciples – “Howbeit, when He,
the Spirit of truth is come, HE WILL GUIDE YOU INTO ALL TRUTH: for He shall not
speak of Himself; but whatsoever He shall hear, that shall He speak: and He
will shew you all things to come. He shall glorify Me: for He shall receive of
Mine and shall shew [it] unto you. All things that the Father hath are Mine:
therefore, said I, that He shall take of Mine and shall shew [it] unto you. A
little while, and ye shall not see Me; and again, a little while, and ye shall
see Me, because I go to the Father …” (John 16:13-16)
And yes, because of space limitations, I am moving through
chapters John 14-16 quite quickly but this does not mean that you should not go
back and read these important scriptures on your own, apart from this blog.
Indeed, I thoroughly encourage you to do so because, as Jesus said, “These
things have I spoken unto you, being [yet] present with you.”
And in this context, there was so much more for the apostles
(and by extension, you and I as well), to learn and understand. But first there
had to be the cross. The purchase with blood had to be made. Jesus – being the
perfect sacrifice.
“And for this cause, He is the mediator of the new
testament, that by means of death, for the redemption of the transgressions that
were under the first testament, they which are called might receive the promise
of eternal inheritance. For where a testament [is], there must also of
necessity be the death of the testator. For a testament is of force after men
are dead; otherwise, it is of no strength at all while the testator lives ….” (Hebrews
9:15-28)
“So Christ was once offered to bear the sins of many; and
unto them that look [eagerly wait] for Him shall He appear the second time
without sin unto salvation.” (Hebrews 9:28)
God’s plan of redemption displayed for the entire world to
behold in this current dispensation of grace. That is, God Himself became our
Saviour! (I Timothy 3:16; Titus 3:4-7)
“The Holy Ghost this signifying, that the “way” into the
holiest of all was not yet made manifest while as the first tabernacle was yet
standing – which was a figure for the time then present, in which were offered
both gits and sacrifices that could NOT make him that did the service perfect,
as pertaining to the conscience … but Christ being come a high priest of good
things to come – BY A GREATER TABERNACLE, NOT MADE WITH HANDS, THAT IS TO SAY,
NOT OF THE BUILDING … HOW MUCH MORE SHALL THE BLOOD OF CHRIST, WHO THROUGH THE
ETERNAL SPIRIT OFFERED HIMSELF WITHOUT SPOT TO GOD, PURGE YOUR CONSCIENCE FROM
DEAD WORKS TO SERVE THE LIVING GOD?” (Hebrews 9:1-14)
“ … but now once in
the end of the world hath HE appeared to put away sin by the sacrifice of
Himself.” (Hebrews 1:26)
Which is why apostle Paul wrote: “For we being many are ONE
bread: for we are all partakers of that ONE bread.” (I Corinthians 10:17) And,
also, “For as we have many members in one body, and all members have not the
same office; so we being many are ONE BODY in Christ …” (Romans 12:4-5)
But there is more to understand herein but perhaps first,
for those who have been taught to be wary of apostle Paul’s understandings, note
that Peter did acknowledge Paul’s writings in one accord in his first and
second epistles. And that we be mindful of the words which were spoken before
by the holy prophets, and of the commandment of us the apostles of the Lord our
Saviour. (II Peter 3:2)
“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
[literally Greeks], whether we be bond or free, and have been all made to drink
into ONE SPIRIT … but NOW are thy many members but ONE BODY.” (I Corinthians
12:12-27)
One Spirit – the Holy Ghost – the Spirit of the living God
that was from the very beginning, He made a way when there was no way. One
Lord, One Faith, One Baptism. One God and Father of all, who is above all and
through all and in you all.” This SAME God in Christ – JESUS – who said He will
never leave you nor forsake you – He IS BOTH LORD AND CHRIST! (Acts 2:36-47)
Stand in the offering plate.
Saturday, June 3, 2017
Seek Ye the Lord; Look Unto the Lord, the God of my Salvation - Part 1718
"And the very God of peace sanctify you wholly; and I pray God your whole spirit and soul and body be preserved blameless unto the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. Faithful is He that calls you, who also will do." (I Thessalonians 5:23-24)
In the beginning of all things, and even before the creation of man, there was a condition in which all things existed, and wherein also, everything that was made was obedient to God. This included angels who were also obedient to God. Indeed, everything that was created looked upward, praising the Lord God Almighty in all things. This must have been a very blessed time -- (which may explain why the Garden of Eden is likened to paradise) -- somewhat similar to experiencing the pastoral hills in a scenic countryside after a long hard week at work.
But as we understand from the scriptural record, there then came a time when angels rebelled against the governance/government of God. In Isaiah 14:12 specifically, satan is identified as Lucifer -- son of the morning. In substance, the Word says concerning him, "Wast thou not pure and holy UNTIL pride was found in your heart?"
What we are witnessing then is that pride was the condition that generated the inward desire to be separated from God, and also, to rebel against Him. And this is what we see again in the Garden of Eden -- when Adam's pride made him exalt his own will over and above God's Word. It is in this context that we as descendants of Adam have inherited sin -- that same trait instinctively -- to pursue our own desires rather than the Lord of hosts who loved us enough to shed His precious blood on the cross of Calvary. And as a consequence, through this instinctive desire, we walk into misty conceptions concerning the real ways of God.
For clarity, note that scripture states on this side of the cross, "All have sinned and come short of the glory of God." (Romans 3:23)
This "all" includes each and every one of us -- and because of the equalizing that took place as a consequence of Jesus' death and resurrection, now includes both Jew and Gentile, male and female. There is no difference between them. All must believe/repent of their sins and follow Jesus, and adhere to the commandments that He (after the day He was taken up) THROUGH the Holy Ghost gave to His apostles. (Acts 1:2-3; Acts 2:1-47)
But the scripture does not stop with "all have sinned" but continues on stating that for those who believe in Jesus by faith, and have subsequently been water baptized in the Name of the Lord Jesus as per Acts 2:36-38, we are "justified by His grace through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus; whom God hath set forth [to be] a propitiation through faith in His blood, to declare His righteousness for the remission of sins that are past, through the forbearance of God; to declare, [I say], at this time His righteousness: that He might be just and the justifier of Him which believes in Jesus." (Romans 3:24-25)
It is in this context that as humans -- admittedly, we have very little understanding of the actual nature or substance of God. In fact, Jesus alludes to this when speaking to His disciples about entering into the Kingdom of God -- that "with men this is impossible; but with God all things are possible." (Matthew 19:21-26)
This is why the scriptures are important -- because we can know that God is Spirit and similarly understand from Hebrews -- "God, at sundry times and in diverse manners spake in times past unto the fathers by the prophets." And that, in this current dispensation of grace, [considered the fullness of times] God "hath in these last days spoken unto us by [His] Son, whom He hath appointed Heir of all things, by whom also He made the worlds, who being the brightness of [His] glory, and the express image of His person, and upholding all things by the Word of His power when He had by Himself purged our sins, sat down on the right hand of the Majesty on high ..." (Hebrews 1-3)
One heir -- JESUS -- and we are to follow Him. (Matthew 19:21)
But I have digressed somewhat. Note that the Word tells us that God breathed into Adam the breath of life, and that it was at this point that man became a living soul. Indeed, out of love, God made man in His own image. (Genesis 1:27) And this same God made man of the substance of the earth. (Genesis 2:7)
Thus, God did not only create man in form but God breathed into man from His own being. Think about this for a minute. God Almighty who spans the heavens and the earth in His Majesty, with the earth presented as akin to His footstool, breathed into man that heavenly materiality of which God consists. In fact, God breathed Himself into man. And because of this, it can be said that man (as a result) became a composition of heavenly substance.
"And the Lord God formed man of the dust of the ground, and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life; and man became a living soul. And the Lord God planted a garden eastward in Eden; and there he put the man whom He had formed." (Genesis 2:7-8)
"And so it is written: The first man Adam was made a living soul ..." (I Corinthians 15:45)
In this context, it becomes evident that Adam was the 'created' son of God. He was pure in all aspects, and thus, God would (and did) fellowship with him in the Garden. As the scriptures state, God walked in the cool of the afternoon with Adam. Yes, God Himself walked with Adam and talked with Adam. What this proves is that there was a time when there was perfect fellowship between God and Adam. Note that at this time, Adam was a sinless man, and as such Adam could look right into the face of God. And neither at this time did Adam's eyes or spirit draw back.
Even more importantly, the purity of God did not startle him, Why? Because he -- Adam was the original man. And we -- as a consequence -- are God's beloved creation -- man having been made from the dust of the earth and then breathed into him the breath of God, giving him life. So, in light of God's magnitude in the beginning, why then is it so difficult for us to believe that the first man was earthly, but the second Adam was the Lord from heaven?
"Wherefore, as by one man sin entered into the world, and death by sin, so death passed upon all men, for that all have sinned; (for until the law sin was in the world; but sin is not imputed when there is no law -- nevertheless, death reigned from heaven from Adam to Moses, even over them that had not sinned after the similitude of Adam's transgression, who is the figure of Him that was to come ..." (Romans 5:12-14)
In this same context then, why is it that we struggle comprehending that the ONE TRUE LIVING LORD ALMIGHTY GOD AND FATHER CREATED ALL THINGS BY HIMSELF AND FOR HIMSELF? Or that HE MADE ALL THINGS For HIS very OWN pleasure BY SPEAKING ALL THINGS into EXISTENCE?
And that because of His kindness and love for His beloved creation, HE RECONCILED ALL THINGS Unto HIMSELF, BY [HIS] Son; the man Christ Jesus born of a virgin woman; IN WHOM HE was manifest [revealed] IN THE FLESH. (Titus 3:4-7)
All the fullness of the Godhead dwelling bodily in Christ Jesus. (Colossians 2:9; I Timothy 3:16)) Or, as the scriptures clearly state, God was RECONCILING the world back unto HIMSELF.
THE POWER AND AUTHORITY THAT WAS GIVEN IS THE ONE AND ONLY HOLY SPIRIT OF GOD WHO IS THE FATHER HIMSELF. His Name is JESUS, and He shall save His people from their sins. (Matthew 1:21-23; Acts 4:12)
Thus, seek ye the Lord while He may still be found. Look unto the Lord who is the God of our salvation. Search the scriptures for His wisdom and knowledge. Stand in the offering plate.
In the beginning of all things, and even before the creation of man, there was a condition in which all things existed, and wherein also, everything that was made was obedient to God. This included angels who were also obedient to God. Indeed, everything that was created looked upward, praising the Lord God Almighty in all things. This must have been a very blessed time -- (which may explain why the Garden of Eden is likened to paradise) -- somewhat similar to experiencing the pastoral hills in a scenic countryside after a long hard week at work.
But as we understand from the scriptural record, there then came a time when angels rebelled against the governance/government of God. In Isaiah 14:12 specifically, satan is identified as Lucifer -- son of the morning. In substance, the Word says concerning him, "Wast thou not pure and holy UNTIL pride was found in your heart?"
What we are witnessing then is that pride was the condition that generated the inward desire to be separated from God, and also, to rebel against Him. And this is what we see again in the Garden of Eden -- when Adam's pride made him exalt his own will over and above God's Word. It is in this context that we as descendants of Adam have inherited sin -- that same trait instinctively -- to pursue our own desires rather than the Lord of hosts who loved us enough to shed His precious blood on the cross of Calvary. And as a consequence, through this instinctive desire, we walk into misty conceptions concerning the real ways of God.
For clarity, note that scripture states on this side of the cross, "All have sinned and come short of the glory of God." (Romans 3:23)
This "all" includes each and every one of us -- and because of the equalizing that took place as a consequence of Jesus' death and resurrection, now includes both Jew and Gentile, male and female. There is no difference between them. All must believe/repent of their sins and follow Jesus, and adhere to the commandments that He (after the day He was taken up) THROUGH the Holy Ghost gave to His apostles. (Acts 1:2-3; Acts 2:1-47)
But the scripture does not stop with "all have sinned" but continues on stating that for those who believe in Jesus by faith, and have subsequently been water baptized in the Name of the Lord Jesus as per Acts 2:36-38, we are "justified by His grace through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus; whom God hath set forth [to be] a propitiation through faith in His blood, to declare His righteousness for the remission of sins that are past, through the forbearance of God; to declare, [I say], at this time His righteousness: that He might be just and the justifier of Him which believes in Jesus." (Romans 3:24-25)
It is in this context that as humans -- admittedly, we have very little understanding of the actual nature or substance of God. In fact, Jesus alludes to this when speaking to His disciples about entering into the Kingdom of God -- that "with men this is impossible; but with God all things are possible." (Matthew 19:21-26)
This is why the scriptures are important -- because we can know that God is Spirit and similarly understand from Hebrews -- "God, at sundry times and in diverse manners spake in times past unto the fathers by the prophets." And that, in this current dispensation of grace, [considered the fullness of times] God "hath in these last days spoken unto us by [His] Son, whom He hath appointed Heir of all things, by whom also He made the worlds, who being the brightness of [His] glory, and the express image of His person, and upholding all things by the Word of His power when He had by Himself purged our sins, sat down on the right hand of the Majesty on high ..." (Hebrews 1-3)
One heir -- JESUS -- and we are to follow Him. (Matthew 19:21)
But I have digressed somewhat. Note that the Word tells us that God breathed into Adam the breath of life, and that it was at this point that man became a living soul. Indeed, out of love, God made man in His own image. (Genesis 1:27) And this same God made man of the substance of the earth. (Genesis 2:7)
Thus, God did not only create man in form but God breathed into man from His own being. Think about this for a minute. God Almighty who spans the heavens and the earth in His Majesty, with the earth presented as akin to His footstool, breathed into man that heavenly materiality of which God consists. In fact, God breathed Himself into man. And because of this, it can be said that man (as a result) became a composition of heavenly substance.
"And the Lord God formed man of the dust of the ground, and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life; and man became a living soul. And the Lord God planted a garden eastward in Eden; and there he put the man whom He had formed." (Genesis 2:7-8)
"And so it is written: The first man Adam was made a living soul ..." (I Corinthians 15:45)
In this context, it becomes evident that Adam was the 'created' son of God. He was pure in all aspects, and thus, God would (and did) fellowship with him in the Garden. As the scriptures state, God walked in the cool of the afternoon with Adam. Yes, God Himself walked with Adam and talked with Adam. What this proves is that there was a time when there was perfect fellowship between God and Adam. Note that at this time, Adam was a sinless man, and as such Adam could look right into the face of God. And neither at this time did Adam's eyes or spirit draw back.
Even more importantly, the purity of God did not startle him, Why? Because he -- Adam was the original man. And we -- as a consequence -- are God's beloved creation -- man having been made from the dust of the earth and then breathed into him the breath of God, giving him life. So, in light of God's magnitude in the beginning, why then is it so difficult for us to believe that the first man was earthly, but the second Adam was the Lord from heaven?
"Wherefore, as by one man sin entered into the world, and death by sin, so death passed upon all men, for that all have sinned; (for until the law sin was in the world; but sin is not imputed when there is no law -- nevertheless, death reigned from heaven from Adam to Moses, even over them that had not sinned after the similitude of Adam's transgression, who is the figure of Him that was to come ..." (Romans 5:12-14)
In this same context then, why is it that we struggle comprehending that the ONE TRUE LIVING LORD ALMIGHTY GOD AND FATHER CREATED ALL THINGS BY HIMSELF AND FOR HIMSELF? Or that HE MADE ALL THINGS For HIS very OWN pleasure BY SPEAKING ALL THINGS into EXISTENCE?
And that because of His kindness and love for His beloved creation, HE RECONCILED ALL THINGS Unto HIMSELF, BY [HIS] Son; the man Christ Jesus born of a virgin woman; IN WHOM HE was manifest [revealed] IN THE FLESH. (Titus 3:4-7)
All the fullness of the Godhead dwelling bodily in Christ Jesus. (Colossians 2:9; I Timothy 3:16)) Or, as the scriptures clearly state, God was RECONCILING the world back unto HIMSELF.
THE POWER AND AUTHORITY THAT WAS GIVEN IS THE ONE AND ONLY HOLY SPIRIT OF GOD WHO IS THE FATHER HIMSELF. His Name is JESUS, and He shall save His people from their sins. (Matthew 1:21-23; Acts 4:12)
Thus, seek ye the Lord while He may still be found. Look unto the Lord who is the God of our salvation. Search the scriptures for His wisdom and knowledge. Stand in the offering plate.
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