Seeing Then That We Have Such Hope; The Lord Is That Spirit And Where The Spirit Of The Lord Is, There Is Liberty - Part 1852

"But this shall be the covenant that I will make with the house of Israel; After those days," saith the LORD, "I will put My law in their inward parts, and write it in their hearts; and will be their God, and they shall be My people." (Jeremiah 31:20, 33)

Apostle Paul was asking the question of the believing saints in Corinth. That is, "Do we begin again to commend ourselves? or need we, as some others, epistles of commendation to you, or letters of commendation from you?" (I Corinthians 3:1-2) Because, for Paul, "ye are our epistle written in our hearts, known and read of all men."

You see, like the woman Jesus describes in Luke 15, who had ten pieces of silver and lost one, and then swept the house to find it, we similarly are missing a piece of the puzzle -- a piece that can only be filled when we ask the Lord Jesus Christ into our hearts, and are baptized in His Name. (Acts 2:36-41)

If I can backtrack for a moment, we have all sinned and fallen short of the glory of God. This is a consequence of Adam and Eve's transgression in the Garden of Eden. However, the Lord God had a plan of salvation to redeem His people -- all those who come unto Him and allow Him to become King of kings and Lord of lords in their heart. In this dispensation of grace, God's Name is JESUS, for He shall save His people from their sins. (Matthew 1:21-23) 

Neither is there any other name whereby we must be saved. (Acts 4:12) The Name which is above every other Name, including all of the names which God referred to Himself in the Old Testament. (Philippians 2:9) This is why we are instructed to do every thing that we do, in the Name of the Lord Jesus Christ. Healing, salvation, water baptism, discerning, ministering and indeed, every single thing we do. We are called to pray without ceasing, and rejoice evermore, lifting up our King and blessed Potentate in our hearts forevermore. 

"Which in His times He shall shew, who is the blessed and only Potentate, the King of kings, and Lord of lords ... " (I Timothy 6:15)

Our hope then is that the Spirit of Truth -- the Spirit of Jesus Christ -- the Holy Ghost in these last times can dwell within, and lead us and guide us and instruct us in the way in which we should go. If you have not already asked Jesus into your heart, today is the day. This is the day of salvation for your soul to be redeemed, and revived to the purpose that you were intended to fulfill, from the moment you were conceived in your mother's womb. In fact, Jesus is standing at the door of your heart right now, inviting you to come into His fold, wherein you can drink of the living water that He gives, and ever thirst again.

Jesus said, "Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that hears My Word, and believes on Him that sent Me, hath everlasting life, and shall not come into condemnation; but is passed from death unto life." (John 5:24)

This is why Jesus could say, "I am the Way, the Truth and the Life. No man comes to the Father but by Me!" (John 14:6) Because after Jesus was taken up, He THROUGH the Holy Ghost gave commandments unto the apostles whom He had chosen. (Acts 1:2) There is a reason the scriptures refer to the Holy Ghost 80 plus times in the New Testament side, because the resurrected Jesus has now returned to His rightful place -- as the Lord God Almighty, our Saviour. But I digress.

Returning again to Paul's writings, he writes: "Forasmuch as ye are manifestly declared to be the epistle of Christ ministered by us, written not with ink, but with the Spirit of the living God; not in tables of stone, but in fleshy tables of the heart, and such trust have we through Christ to God-ward: not that we are sufficient of ourselves to think anything as of ourselves; but our sufficiency is of God; who also hath made us able ministers of the new testament; not of the letter, but of the Spirit: for the letter kills, but the Spirit gives life." (I Corinthians 3:3-6)

We who believe recognize this to be true, for many have read the scriptures without understanding, in much the same way as the scribes and Pharisees and lawyers (in the time that Jesus walked this earth) were blinded to His truth. Jesus said to them that they would not come unto Him and receive the Word because their hearts were full of their own worldly wisdom, and dare I say, self-righteousness.

In this context, Jesus said unto them, "Woe unto you, lawyers! for ye have taken away the key of knowledge: ye entered not in yourselves, and them that were entering in ye hindered." (Luke 11:52)

And He did so in order that we would understand the abundance of grace that He will bestow upon those who desire to be His people -- a chosen people, a royal generation. It is for this reason that we are privileged beyond measure, because we have seen and can behold the manifestation of the Lord of glory, who willingly and personally fulfilled His own plan of salvation on that cross. For this reason, we have hope and joy, and also the key of knowledge -- because the Lord Jesus dwells within.  He was wounded for our transgressions. He was bruised for our iniquities. How I am sure He grieved over the appointed time when He would take our place on that cross -- inviting us to behold Him -- the Lamb of God. 

But, as Paul points out, "if the ministration of death, written and engraven in stones, was glorious, so that the children of Israel could not steadfastly behold the face of Moses for the glory of his countenance; which glory was to be done away: how shall not the ministration of the Spirit be rather glorious? For if the ministration of condemnation be glory, much more doth the ministration of righteousness exceed in glory. For even that which was made glorious had no glory in this respect, by reason of the glory that excels. For if that which is done away was glorious, much more that which remains is glorious.

Seeing then that we have such hope, we use great plainness of speech: and not as Moses, which put a vail over his face, that the children of Israel could not steadfastly look to the end of that which is abolished: but their minds were blinded: for until this day remains the same vail untaken away in the reading of the old testament; which vail is done away in Christ. But even unto this day, when Moses is read, the vail is upon their heart. 

Nevertheless when it shall turn to the Lord, the vail shall be taken away. Now the Lord is that Spirit: and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is liberty. But we all, with open face beholding as in a glass the glory of the Lord, are changed into the same image from glory to glory, even as by the Spirit of the Lord." (II Corinthians 3:1-18)

Stand in the offering plate.

For We Which Live Are Alway Delivered Unto Death For Jesus' Sake, That the Life Also Of Jesus Might Be Made Manifest In Our Mortal Flesh - Part 1851

"Do we begin again to commend ourselves? or need we, as some others, epistles of commendation to you, or letters of commendation from you? Ye are our epistle written in our hearts, known and read of all men. Forasmuch as ye are manifestly declared to be the epistle of Christ ministered by us, written not with ink, but with the Spirit of the living God; not in tables of stone, but in fleshy tables of the heart.

And such trust have we through Christ to God-ward: not that we are sufficient of ourselves to think any thing as of ourselves; but our sufficiency is of God; who also hath made us able ministers of the new testament; not of the letter, but of the Spirit: for the letter kills, but the Spirit gives life." (II Corinthians 3:1-18)

Throughout the ministry of Jesus on earth, we see the people pressing upon Him to hear the Word of God. In one place, Jesus stood by the lake of Gennesaret, and saw two ships standing by the lake, but the fishermen were gone out of them to wash nets. Jesus enters into Simon's ship and prayed him that he would thrust a little from the land. Therein, Jesus sat down and taught the people out of the ship. Now when He had stopped speaking, Jesus said unto Simon, "Launch out into the deep, and let down your nests for a draught."

But Simon said to Him, "Master, we have toiled all the night and have taken notion; nevertheless, at Thy Word I will let down the net." (Luke 5:1-5)

How many of us would have stopped there, telling Jesus that we have already tried, but to no avail? Sadly, too many of us stop just short of the miracle. We put our hand to the plow in anticipation of the blessing, but when we don't right away receive, we turn away. Thankfully, this example of Simon should teach us to remain steadfast in the work that we are performing for the Lord.

That is, when Simon went out and dropped the nets, "they inclosed [caught] a great multitude of fishes; and their net break." So much so, that the had to beckon unto their partners, which were in the other ship, that they should come and help them. And they came, and filled both the ships, so that they began to sink. When Simon Peter saw, he fell down at Jesus' knees, saying, "Depart from me; for I am a sinful man, O Lord." For he was astonished, and all they that were with him, at the draught of the fishes which they had taken.

I am sure it must have been quite the sight. With Simon was also James and John, the sons of Zebedee, which were partners with Simon. But Jesus said unto Simon, "Fear not; from henceforth thou shall catch men." And when they had brought their ships to land, they forsook all and followed Jesus." (Luke 5:9-11)

Each and every one of us has been called from that "someplace" wherein we toil in the things of this earth, but to no avail. And sometimes, like Simon, we consider that moment to be an ideal time to wash our nets. But Jesus has a higher purpose for those who love Him with all their heart, soul, mind and strength. His purpose having been placed in our heart whilst we were still in our mother's womb. However, like Simon, we need to respond to Jesus' call. We need to lift the Name of the Lord Jesus in everything we do (in both word and deed) so that He can be our sustenance and life.

Therefore, as apostle Paul points out, "seeing we have this ministry, as we have received mercy, we faint not, but have renounced the hidden things of dishonesty, not walking in craftiness, nor handling the Word of God deceitfully, but by manifestation of the truth commending ourselves to every man's conscience in the sight of God. But if our gospel be hid, it is hid to them that are lost; in whom the god of their world hath blinded the minds of them which believe not, lest the light of the glorious gospel of Christ, who is the image of God should shine unto them ... 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." (III Corinthians 4:1-6)

This is why we have this treasure in earthen vessels that the excellency of the power may be of God and not of us. And as a consequence, we need to step into the leading and instruction of the Holy Ghost -- the Spirit of the Lord Jesus within us.

Stand in the offering plate.

But Christ Being Come An High Priest Of Good Things To Come, By A Greater And More Perfect Tabernacle, Having Obtained Eternal Redemption For You and I - Part 1850

"How much more shall the blood of Christ, who though the eternal Spirit offered Himself without spot to God, purger your conscience from dead works to serve the living God? And for this cause He is the mediator of the New Testament, that by means of death, for the redemption of the transgressions that were under the first testament, they which are called might receive the promise of eternal inheritance." (Hebrews 9:14-180

God who is now attired in a body of sin prone flesh went about delivering a message that the first Adam should have embraced. If Adam had embraced God’s words of instruction, then all of his descendants would have been spared tears, agonies, pains, sickness, and death. But man was in free fall. Not evolving. No sir. Man was descending into a pit. 

How can I say this? Because man was created by God for God. Therefore, in the same context, man without fellowship with God is empty, just like the earth was void of form before God took it upon Himself to furnish it. Indeed, pior to God stepping in to furnish the earth it is said that the earth was without form. In the beginning, Adam was alone in the garden. It was God who observed that Adam was lonely. It was also God who made a companion for Adam, a woman to dwell with him as a helpmate. The woman was made of his own flesh.

Just as it was in the beginning, God knows what we have need of even before we ask. Why? Because God is a good God. God is a merciful God. God is full of kindness and love for those who turn their heart to HIm. Delight in Him, and He will give you the desires of your heart. And this same God, after His kindness and love became our Saviour, shedding His holy blood on a cross for you and I.

And He has placed His purpose in our heart whilst we were still in our mother's womb. Yes, God has a plan for man. As the scriptures state, eye has not seen, neither has ear heard of the things that God has in store for those who love Him with all their heart, soul, mind, and strength. However, this also means we need to understand God's plan of salvation.

How from the very beginning, He had hidden the mystery of godliness in His bosom until the appointed time. Therein, we begin to understand that God (who is Spirit) descended into mans’ hopeless situation by preparing a natural body for Himself. This body was to be born of a young virgin girl named Mary, who was rejoicing in God her Saviour.

The life that was to indwell her ody was not a seed from Adam’s fallen sinful race. The reason for this is that Adam sinned. From this point on, we inherited his fallen nature. But the life that was to indwell in Mary's body was to be a life conceived by the holy Spirit of God. A spiritual life of God Himself as a Son. 

JESUS -- Emmanuel, being interpreted, God with us. (Matthew 1:18-23; Luke 1:35) He Himself appeared as a man for indeed He was a man in all respects. He was born as a man, and even though Luke identifies Jesus as a holy thing in the womb, He was still tempted as are we. 

Still, God was going to sacrifice His own sinless body on a cross so that we might have salvation in HIm. O, how He must have grieved from the very beginning, knowing that most would not respond to His everlasting love call. Even so, God knew that He was the ONLY ONE perfect enough to shed His precious holy blood on the cross, and to take on HIs body all of our sins. 

Thus, purchasing back to Himself His own creation as if they had never sinned. In other words, while one man’s sin condemned, another man’s righteousness redeems us. He is the Living Word wherein we can have the words of life because Jesus willingly sacrificed Himself for us. As a consequence, there is no more sacrifice for sin. Our debt has been paid in full. The Gift of God is 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 everlasting life. (John 3:!6)

Harken unto His call on your life today. Read the book of Acts, and see how Jesus teachings were implemented into the society at large. Pray without ceasing. Study the Word to show yourself approved, as doth a workman unto God. Give Him all the praise and glory and honour. In this current dispensation of grace, His Name is JESUS, for He shall save His people from their sins. (Matthew 1:21-23)

The Word made flesh and dwelt among us so that we could and would behold His glory. (John 1:1-18)

Stand in the offering plate.

Blessed Be The Lord, O My Soul; His Mercy Endures Forever - Part 1849

"Let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of need." (Hebrews 4:16)

"O give thanks unto the Lord; for He is good: for His mercy endures for ever. O give thanks unto the God of gods: for His mercy endures for ever. O give thanks to the Lord of lords: for His mercy endures for ever. To Him who alone does great wonders: for His mercy endures for ever. To Him that by wisdom made the heavens: for His mercy endures for ever. To Him that stretched out the earth above the waters: for His mercy endures for ever. To Him that made great lights: for His mercy endures for ever. The sun to rule by day: for His mercy endures for ever: the moon and stars to rule by night: for His mercy endures for ever." (Psalms 136:1-9)

Within secular society, the Lord Jesus is continually being rejected as the absolute. He has already been rejected as the Lord God our Saviour, even though after His kindness and love, He toward man appeared. (Titus 3:4-7; I Timothy 3:16) Likewise, the same hearts that have (and still do) condemn Him will not accept the regenerated Jesus as King of kings and Lord of lords. (Revelation 1:8) Even when, as the psalmist David repeatedly points out, as we read in the psalm above, His mercy endures forever. 

The Word made flesh so that we as sinners needing His mercy would accept His invitation to become a member of His family -- the body of Christ church, wherein Jesus is the Head. This is why sinners repent of their sin, asking Jesus to be both Lord and Christ in their heart, and go on to be water baptized in His Name -- the Name of the Lord Jesus Christ. (Acts 2:36-38; Romans 6:3-4; I Peter 3:21-22; Acts 10:44-48)

This serves as our starting point for getting to know Jesus, and His abundant love for His precious beloved. He paid the price for our sins, so that we might have life. You see, in the Old Testament, those who believed did not have the Lord's grace and mercy, as we do in this current dispensation of grace. The Holy Ghost having not yet signified the new until the old was no longer standing. This is why born again believers do not mix the old wine with the new, because the wine flasks will break. Instead, what we do is pray without ceasing and rejoice evermore. We delve into the New Testament, asking the Lord Jesus to open our understanding by taking the blinders from our eyes, and our hearts.

I like to tell people to begin in John, because right from the beginning, John is revealing Jesus to us. He is the Word made flesh -- the same Word that spoke the world into existence in the beginning. He is the Light of this world. He is the Bread of life. He is the Way, the Truth, and the Life. 

And, as Jesus said, "I and My Father are One!" (John 10:30) 

Returning to David the psalmist, there is another psalm that may also speak to our heart as it does mine. There is also good instruction for those just beginning in this faith journey. Psalm 103 goes like this:

"Bless the LORD, O my soul: and all that is within me, [bless] His holy name. Bless the LORD, O my soul, and forget not all His benefits: who forgives all thine iniquities; who heals all thy diseases; who redeems thy life from destruction; who crowns  thee with loving kindness and tender mercies; who satisfies thy mouth with good [things; so that] thy youth is renewed like the eagle's.

The LORD executes righteousness and judgment for all that are oppressed. He made known His ways unto Moses, His acts unto the children of Israel. The LORD [is] merciful and gracious, slow to anger, and plenteous in mercy. He will not always chide: neither will He keep [His anger] for ever.

He hath not dealt with us after our sins; nor rewarded us according to our iniquities. For as the heaven is high above the earth, [so] great is His mercy toward them that fear Him. As far as the east is from the west, [so] far hath He removed our transgressions from us. Like as a father pitieth [his] children, [so] the LORD pity's them that fear Him. For He knows our frame; He remembers that we [are] dust.

[As for] man, his days [are] as grass: as a flower of the field, so he flourishes. For the wind passes over it, and it is gone; and the place thereof shall know it no more. But the mercy of the LORD [is] from everlasting to everlasting upon them that fear Him, and His righteousness unto children's children; to such as keep His covenant, and to those that remember His commandments to do them.

The LORD hath prepared His throne in the heavens; and His kingdom rules.over all. Bless the LORD, ye His angels, that excel in strength, that do His commandments, hearkening unto the voice of His word. Bless ye the LORD, all [ye] His hosts; [ye] ministers of His, that do His pleasure. Bless the LORD, all his works in all places of His dominion: bless the LORD, O my soul." (Psalm 103:1-22)

When the Holy Ghost overshadowed Mary so that she could bring forth a son, God became our Father, and because of His abundant mercy He hath begotten us again unto a lively hope by the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead. (I Peter 1:3)

And he that hath the Son hath the Father also. The Son of man is the Lord of glory. The first Adam earthy, but the second, the Lord from heaven. He was in the world and the world was made by Him and the world knew Him not. Jesus was the promised Lord's Christ. Jesus was the prophesied Messiah. 

And now, we know JESUS to be the ONLY NAME whereby we must be saved in this current dispensation of grace. (Acts 4:12; Philippians 2:9) 

Therefore, delight thyself in the Lord; and He shall give thee the desires of thine heart. Delight thyself in His abundant mercy. Let your cup overflow with His joy when you understand that He Himself is the greatest love story ever told. One Lord, One Faith, One Baptism. 

Stand in the offering plate.

I Thank Thee, O Father, Lord Of Heaven And Earth, Because Thou Hast Hid These Things From The Wise And Prudent, And Hast Revealed Them Unto Babes- Part 1848

At that time Jesus answered and said, "I thank Thee, O Father, Lord of heaven and earth, because Thou hast hid these things from the wise and prudent, and hast revealed them unto babes. Even so, Father: for so it seemed good in Thy sight. All things are delivered unto Me of My Father: and no man knows the Son, but the Father; neither knows any man the Father, save the Son, and he to whomsoever the Son will reveal Him." (Matthew 11:27-28)

"Ye CALL ME MASTER AND LORD: and ye SAY WELL; FOR I AM. Now I tell you before it come, that, when it is come to pass, ye may believe that I AM (He). VERILY, VERILY, I say unto you, He that receives whomsoever I SEND RECEIVES ME; and HE THAT RECEIVES ME RECEIVES HIM THAT SENT ME." (John 13:13)

This is why Jesus could say, "Come unto Me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you, and learn of Me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For My yoke is easy, and My burden is light" (Matthew 11:29-30)

 Because ALL AUTHORITY in both heaven and earth belonged to Him -- JESUS -- for He shall save His people from their sins. And Jesus came and spake unto them, saying, "All power is given unto Me in heaven and in earth." (Matthew 28:18) In this current dispensation of grace, and as the angel of the Lord proclaimed, JESUS is His Name. (Matthew 28:18; Matthew 1:18-23) Emmanuel, being interpreted, God with us! He is both Lord and Christ. (Acts 2:36) God, our Saviour, the Word made flesh dwelt among us. (John 1:1-18; Titus 3:4-7) 

And, as John the baptizer pointed out, "Behold, the Lamb of God!"

"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)

Note that the Name of JESUS was not assigned to the "holy thing" by Mary or Joseph. (Luke 1:35; Matthew 1:18-23) Rather, the angel of the Lord declared His name to Joseph. Thus, as we now know, there is no other name whereby we must be saved. (Acts 4:12) There is also no other name above the Name of JESUS. (Philippians 2:9) 

And His Name, as Jesus said when He thanked Thee, O Father, (His humanity speaking). who He Himself identifies as Lord of heaven and earth, has been hidden from the wise and prudent. 

"And she shall bring forth a son, and thou shalt 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." (Matthew 1:21-23)

The good news is that this same JESUS knows His people by name. He has called and ordained us into His body of Christ church. He calls us to a higher purpose, to be that city on a hill wherein He is the beacon of light in a very dark world. He has called us to be His chosen people. A royal generation. In fact, throughout history, there has always been a Light wherein the world is lit -- beyond the obvious sun and moon and stars that shine from the sky. 

In fact, from scripture we understand that our Lord God (who willingly became our Saviour) was continually showing His beloved creation -- you and I -- that He is the Light of this world. That He is the Bread of life. That He is the living water wherein we will never thirst again, if we would only come to Him -- the Lord Jesus -- and welcome Him as both Lord and Christ in our hearts. (Acts 2:36)

Yes, after the kindness and love of God our Saviour toward man appeared. (Titus 3:4-7) The greatest love story ever told, that the same God who made the heavens and the earth in the very beginning would also love us enough to shed His precious holy blood on a cross, so that you and I might have salvation. One Lord, One Faith, One Baptism. One God and Father of all, who is with you all and in you all. (Ephesians 4:5-6)

Or, as John explains, "In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. The same was in the beginning with God. All things were made by Him; and without Him was not any thing made that was made. In Him was life; and the life was the Light of men. And the Light shines in darkness; and the darkness comprehended it not." (John 1:1-4)

This is not a new phenomenon, for God always was the Light of this world. While He made two great lights; the greater light to rule the day, and the lesser light to rule the night, and the stars also, it wasn't to divert or sidetrack us from knowing Him in our day to day. Throughout history, He has continually shown those who seek Him that He is the only Way to abundant life. (Genesis 1:14-16)

In Exodus, "the Lord went before them by day in a pillar of a cloud, to lead them the way; and by night in a pillar of fire, to give them light; to go by day and night ..." (Exodus 13:21)

From Ezra, "And now for a little space grace hath been shewed from the Lord our God, to leave us a remnant to escape, and to give us a nail in His holy place, that our God may lighten our eyes, and give us a little reviving in our bondage." (Ezra 9:8)

And in Nehemiah, ""Moreover Thou leddest them in the day by a cloudy pillar; and in the night by a pillar of fire, to give them light in the way wherein they should go." (Nehemiah 9:12)

And there are those who Job describes as rejecting the Light of this world. "They are of those that rebel against the Light; they know not the ways thereof, nor abide in the paths thereof." (Job 24:13)

The psalmist David properly declared, "The Lord is my Light and my salvation; whom shall I fear? the Lord is the strength of my life; of whom shall I be afraid? " (Psalm 27:1) And so should we. "... for Thy Light is come, and the glory of the Lord is risen upon thee." (Isaiah 60:1)

And, in the new testament, Jesus did not hide His glory from those who seek Him with all their heart, soul, mind and strength. (Deuteronomy 5:4; Mark 12:29-31)

This is why Jesus said, "I am the Light of the world: he that follows Me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the Light of life." (Joh 8:12)

Moreover, in Revelation, John elaborates on His promise to His people, "And I saw a new heaven and a new earth: for the first heaven and the first earth were passed away; and there was no more sea." And I John saw the holy city, new Jerusalem, coming down from God out of heaven, prepared as a bride adorned for her husband. And I heard a great voice out of heaven saying, "Behold, the tabernacle of God is with men, and He will dwell with them, and they shall be His people, and God Himself shall be with them, and be their God.

And God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes; and there shall be no more death, neither sorrow, nor crying, neither shall there be any more pain: for the former things are passed away." And He that sat upon the throne said, "Behold, I make all things new." And He said unto me, "Write: for these words are true and faithful." And He said unto me, I"t is done. I am Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the end. I will give unto him that is athirst of the fountain of the water of life freely. He that overcomes shall inherit all things; and I will be his God, and he shall be My son." (Revelation 21:1-10, 22-23)

Yes, in this current dispensation of grace (the current time in which we live) JESUS is the Light of this world, and He wants to be the Light that shines from your heart. It is for this reason that today, He is reaching out to you, desiring to speak face to face with you, as He did Moses in the tabernacle, and Abraham in the doorway of the tent. Why? Because this is the purpose that we were all intended to achieve, that in Christ Jesus, we have His hope and joy and peace in our heart. 

And that, as a consequence, our cups running over, because of His love and mercy for you and I -- His beloved. Say yes to the Lord Jesus today, and come in to the fold, wherein the Shepherd stands waiting for your heart to respond to His everlasting love. In fact, this is the day of salvation. This is the day wherein the Lord God Almighty wants to share His plan for your life with you, leading and guiding you into His wisdom and truth. The Comforter who clearly stated (while walking this earth), "I will never leave you nor forsake you!" 

Indeed, Jesus said, "I am the Way, the Truth, and the Life" which is why no man can come to the Father but by Him. (John 14:6-12) 

Therefore, as Jesus pointed out while on earth, "let your Light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven." (Matthew 5:16)

And someday very soon, our Lord God and Saviour is returning to this earth to gather unto Himself His people. We need to be prepared for that day when He comes with clouds, "and every eye shall see Him, and they also which pierced Him: and all kindreds of the earth shall wail because of Him. Even so, Amen. "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 1:7-8)

"Looking for that blessed hope, and the glorious appearing of the great God and our Saviour Jesus Christ; who gave Himself for us, that He might redeem us from all iniquity, and purify unto Himself a peculiar people, zealous of good works." (Titus 2:13-14)

Stand in the offering plate. 

After Jesus Ascended Upon High, He Gave Gifts To Believers, Severally As He Will - Part 1847

In the scriptures, apostle Paul repeatedly states that he would not have us ignorant. To ensure that we understand the goodness and mercy of our Lord God and Saviour Jesus the Christ, Paul would often rely on his own personal experiences to encourage us. Paul did the same when he instructed us concerning spiritual gifts. Paul admits that while we were Gentiles we were carried away unto these dumb idols, but now, wherein Paul gives us to understand, that no man speaking by the Spirit of God will call Jesus accursed.

By the same token, Paul states that no man can say that Jesus is the Lord, but by the Holy Ghost, because one has to first believe that Jesus is indeed Lord (and Christ) in their heart, before those words can be uttered. Just as the first 3,000 souls saved on the day of Pentecost believed, when they gladly received the Word. (Acts 2:36-47)

When it comes to the gifts of the Holy Ghost, Paul tells us that even with the diversities of gifts, the differences of administrations, and the diversities of operations, it is the same Spirit, the same Lord, the same God which works all in all. One Spirit which is given to every man to profit withal. (I Corinthians 12:1-7) The one and same holy Spirit of Jesus that imparts them all. 

As background, it is important to note that these Spirit gifts are given for the application of various ministries within Jesus' own body. The body or church is the temple and habitation of the Spirit of Jesus. For those of you who are new to the gospel, there is only one body and there is only one Spirit. And, it is the same Christ in God who achieves His purposes through them all.

Therefore, each believer who is born again of God, (born of water and of spirit) becomes a living member of the temple of God. In this new capacity, believers become functioning members in the body of Christ, wherein Jesus as both Lord and Christ, is the Head of the body of Christ church. 
Moreover, in learning from the Word of God (studying to show ourselves approved unto God, as doth a workman) believers in Jesus by faith become adequately equipped, desiring to put on the whole armour of God. (Ephesians 6:10-18)

Herein, we become equals in the body of Christ, desiring to serve one another, so that no one is without. To that end, we strive also to become a flow through for the love of our Lord God in everything we do, in both word or deed. Not our intellect (as the world claims as the key to success) but rather our hearts reaching out to others because of Jesus' love in our hearts. Because He willingly shed His blood for our sins, even whilst we were still His enemies, we begin to understand the price that was paid once and for all, so that we might experience salvation.

But our Lord God, having walked on this earth knows the struggles that we will have, when Jesus is our Saviour. Indeed, Jesus told us that we would experience tribulation and persecution because these hated Jesus first. This is why spiritual gifts are so critical to our faith journey, because these help us to serve willingly all of those within the body of Christ.

This is why there are diversities of gifts, and differences of administrations, and diversities of operations. The administrations and operations are often overlooked when counting the spiritual gifts but that will be a topic for a different day. For now, let's examine the nine spiritual gifts most referred to by religious circles. From I Corinthians 12:

"For to one is given by the Spirit the word of wisdom; to another the word of knowledge by the same Spirit; to another faith by the same Spirit; to another the gifts of healing by the same Spirit; to another the working of miracles; to another prophecy; to another discerning of spirits; to another diverse kinds of tongues; to another the interpretation of tongues: but all these work that one and the selfsame Spirit, dividing to every man severally as He will." (I Corinthians 12:8-11)

Simplified -- to one is given by the holy Spirit of Jesus the ability to speak wisdom. To another is given by the holy Spirit of Jesus the power to express knowledge. To another is given by the same holy Spirit of Jesus, special faith. To another is given by the same holy Spirit of Jesus, the gift of healing. To another is given by the same holy Spirit of Jesus, the power to work miracles. To another is given by the same holy Spirit of Jesus, prophetic insight. To another is given by the same holy Spirit of Jesus the power to discern between true spirits and false spirits. To another is given by the same holy Spirit of Jesus, the ability to speak in languages that he never formally learned. These tongues of men and of angels, both unknown or unheard of. To another given by the same holy Spirit of Jesus is the capacity to interpret languages spoken through the gift of spiritual tongues.

[As an aside, note that when we repent, and are water baptized in the precious Name of the Lord Jesus Christ, we receive the gift of the Holy Ghost -- His Spirit within.]

But I digress. Continuing, these nine gifts are the gifts of the Spirit of Jesus given for the edification of His own body (HIS TEMPLE). Jesus empowering each member and Jesus apportioning to each believer as He chooses and wills. Or, as the scriptures state, giving "severally as He will." For there is only one body. 

But within the body, there are many organs that work together in unity. In the same fashion, we are members of the body of Christ. We were all brought into that one body by water baptism in Jesus name and by the purifying baptism of His holy Spirit. We have all been added to His body, which is the body of the Christ. Because we are all members of Jesus' body, we all drink the same drink, and we all eat the same meat. And we do so in one accord.

"For as the body is one, and hath many members, and all the members of that one body, being many, are one body: so also is Christ. For by one Spirit are we all baptized into one body, whether we be Jews or Gentiles, whether we be bond or free; and have been all made to drink into one Spirit. For the body is not one member, but many.

If the foot shall say, "Because I am not the hand, I am not of the body; is it therefore not of the body? And if the ear shall say, "Because I am not the eye, I am not of the body; is it therefore not of the body?" If the whole body were an eye, where were the hearing? If the whole were hearing, where were the smelling? But now hath God set the members every one of them in the body, as it hath pleased Him.

And if they were all one member, where were the body? But now are they many members, yet but one body. And the eye cannot say unto the hand, "I have no need of thee: nor again the head to the feet, I have no need of you." Nay, much more those members of the body, which seem to be more feeble, are necessary. And those members of the body, which we think to be less honourable, upon these we bestow more abundant honour; and our uncomely parts have more abundant comeliness. For our comely parts have no need: but God hath tempered the body together, having given more abundant honour to that part which lacked ... that there should be no schism in the body; but that the members should have the same care one for another.

And [therefore, when] one member suffers all the members suffer with it; or one member be honoured, all the members rejoice with it." (I Corinthians 12:12 -26) But apostle Paul does not stop there. He continues, saying,

"Now ye are the body of Christ, and members in particular. And God hath set some in the church, first apostles, secondarily prophets, thirdly teachers, after that miracles, then gifts of healings, helps, governments, diversities of tongues." Are all apostles? are all prophets? are all teachers? are all workers of miracles? Have all the gifts of healing? do all speak with tongues? do all interpret? But covet earnestly the best gifts: and yet shew I unto you a more excellent way." (I Corinthians 12:27-31)

In other words, as you grow in your relationship with the Lord Jesus, studying His Word for your own learning and understanding, He will give you the gifts that you will need to endure the hardships and toils of this world -- severally as He will. In this context, you will be instructed to put on the whole armour of God, so that when the wiles of the enemy come in like a flood, the Lord can lift up a standard against it. And in the same way, He parted the waters for the Israelites, He will pave the way for you to be victorious too (in Him) our Lord God and Saviour Jesus the Christ.

Step into your intended calling. Covet the best gifts, but be aware of a more excellent way -- charity, wherein we can become the blessing we were intended to be to those around us. Stand in the offering plate.

Jesus Said, "My Yoke Is Easy, And My Burden Is Light ... Come Unto Me, All Ye that Labour And Are Heavy Laden, And I Will Give You Rest!" - Part 1846

Jesus said, "Come unto Me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you, and learn of Me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For My yoke is easy, and My burden is light." (Matthew 11:29-30)

Note that just prior to this, Jesus is responding to two disciples of John the baptizer who was (at that time) in jail. During this time, Jesus is preaching and teaching to the multitudes in the cities. Indeed, Jesus answers and said unto the two disciples, "Go and shew John again those things which ye do hear and see. The blind receive their sight, and the lame walk, the lepers are cleansed, and the deaf hear, the dead are raised up, and the poor have the gospel preached to them. And blessed is he, whosoever shall not be offended in Me." (Matthew 11:1-6)

Herein, Jesus is citing prophecy from the Old Testament, so that John would recognize (without Jesus actually saying it) that He is the promised Messiah.

So, after these two leave to go to tell John what Jesus has said, Jesus then turns to those multitudes of people who have been following Him. At this point in the dialogue, Jesus has begun to upbraid the cities wherein most of His mighty works were done, because they, as the scripture has said, have repented not. Can we then conclude that these were not interested in following Jesus in their hearts, seeking only the benefits from Jesus that will enhance their own self interests here on earth? The scripture here does not actually say this but we can learn a similar lesson from the feeding of the five thousand, wherein, the people returned to Jesus the second day, because these were hungry. But I digress somewhat.

Jesus then asks the people, regarding John the baptizer, "What went ye out into the wilderness to see? A reed shaken with the wind? But what went ye out for to see? A man clothed in soft raiment? Behold, they that wear soft clothing are in kings' houses. But what went ye out for to see? A prophet? Yea, I say unto you, and more than a prophet. For this is he, of whom it is written, "Behold, I send My messenger before thy face, which shall prepare Thy way before thee." (Matthew 11:9-10)

[John the baptizer was the one prophesied in Malachi, the last book of the Old Testament, destined to prepare the way for Jesus!]

Jesus continues, saying, "Verily I say unto you, Among them that are born of women there hath not risen a greater than John the baptist: notwithstanding he that is least in the kingdom of heaven is greater than he. And from the days of John the Baptist until now the kingdom of heaven suffereth violence, and the violent take it by force. For all the prophets and the law prophesied until John. And if ye will receive it, this is Elias, which was for to come. He that hath ears to hear, let him hear." (Matthew 11:11-15)

A couple of points worth noting here. Jesus was reminding them of their motives -- that if they were following Him to serve their own self-interests, or to reap the benefits that the Lord gives is not sufficient for entering into the kingdom. There has to be a heart response, wherein we follow Jesus with all our heart, soul, mind and strength, and a heart desire to serve Him with everything we have -- doing everything in word or deed in the precious Name of the Lord Jesus Christ.

But there is a secondary message here as well. John the baptizer was in jail because he told the truth to the powers that be, and those particular hearts that heard him were not willing to listen. Thus, John was put in jail. In much the same fashion, we should care enough about our fellow man to tell them also the truth from the Word, regardless of the consequences. This includes not wavering in the Word, or compromising, but rather standing up for truth -- this same truth wherein Jesus said, "Thy Word is truth." (John 17:17)

In fact, Jesus said, "I am the Way, the Truth, and the Life. No man comes unto the Father but by Me." (John 14:6) In that example, Jesus goes on to tell Philip and the other disciples that if ye have seen Jesus, ye have seen the Father also. Instead of elaborating on this now, I encourage one and all to read John 14, and also John 10:30, wherein Jesus states, "I and My Father are One!"

A third point worth noting here is Jesus' specific words about John -- that John was "more than a prophet." That indeed John was the greatest of prophets. That the law and the prophets were UNTIL John. This means, as Jesus stated, that John was the turning point between the covenant of law and this current dispensation of grace, wherein, the dayspring from on high hath visited His people. To clarify, John was not the expected or prophesied King/Messiah. That title, Emmanuel, being interpreted as "God with us" was intended for Jesus -- the absolute -- because through Jesus (God manifest in the flesh) the veil that kept us from God (because of our sins) was torn from heaven to earth.

The Son of man being the Lord of glory. (Matthew 12:8; Luke 19:10) The first Adam earthly but the second Adam the Lord from heaven. This is an important concept to understand, because there is only one absolute and His Name is JESUS.

Remember Matthew 25:31-46, wherein Jesus states, "When the Son of man shall come in His glory, and all the holy angels with Him, then shall He sit upon the throne of His glory!" (Matthew 25:31) Jesus -- Alpha and Omega, the first and the last, the beginning and the ending! The King of kings and Lord of lords. (Revelation 1:8)

Continuing, Jesus asks, "But whereunto shall I liken this generation? It is like unto children sitting in the markets, and calling unto their fellows, and saying, "We have piped unto you, and ye have not danced; we have mourned unto you, and ye have not lamented. For John came neither eating nor drinking, and they say, "he hath a devil." [Conversely,] the Son of man came eating and drinking, and they say, "Behold a man gluttonous, and a winebibber, a friend of publicans and sinners." BUT wisdom is justified of her children." (Matthew 11:9-17)

Those who know the truth of their Lord God and Saviour Jesus the Christ also know that the truth will set them free. That as believers in Jesus by faith, and obeying His Word, we are sanctified by truth. (John 17:17) "The Lord God, merciful and gracious, long suffering, [being] abundant in goodness and truth ..." (Exodus 34:6) From our perspective, our hearts reaching to our Lord God, saying, "Lead me in Thy truth, and teach me: for Thou art the God of my salvation; on Thee do I wait all the day." (Psalm 25:5)

Does this mean our faith journey should be easy? Of course not. Like John the baptizer, we will be persecuted, and unjustly treated. Those who don't want to hear the good news gospel message will find reasons to reject you, simply because of Jesus within. And, as the hearts get harder, we may even be put to death for proclaiming the ONLY NAME under heaven whereby we must be saved. (Acts 4:12) The Name that is above every other name. (Philippians 2:9) The Name of JESUS, wherein every knee will bow and confess that He -- Jesus -- is Lord. 

Nevertheless, the Word is forever established in heaven. Thy Word is a lamp unto our feet, to lead and guide us into all truth. (Psalm 119:105)

This is why Jesus continued saying, "I thank Thee, O Father, Lord of heaven and earth, because Thou hast hid these things from the wise and prudent, and hast revealed them unto babes. Even so, Father: for so it seemed good in Thy sight. All things are delivered unto Me of My Father: and no man knows the Son, but the Father; neither knows any man the Father, save the Son, and he to whomsoever the Son will reveal Him. (Matthew 11:25-30)

Yes, as John proclaimed when he saw Jesus coming in the distance -- "Behold the Lamb of God.!" 

For "He shall cover thee with His feathers, and under His wings shalt thou trust: His truth shall be thy shield and buckler." (Psalm 91:4)

Stand in the offering plate.

Thy Word Forever Established In Heaven Is Is A Lamp Unto My Feet - Part 1845

"And He shewed me a pure river of water of life, clear as crystal, proceeding out of the throne of God and of the Lamb. In the midst of the street of it, and on either side of the river, was there the tree of life, which bare twelve manner of fruits, and yielded her fruit every month: and the leaves of the tree were for the healing of the nations. And there shall be no more curse: but the throne of God and of the Lamb shall be in it; and His servants shall serve Him. And they shall see His face; and His Name shall be in their foreheads. And there shall be no night there; and they need no candle, neither light of the sun; for the Lord God giveth them light: and they shall reign for ever and ever." (Revelation 22:1-5)

In the New Testament, there are two names and a variety of titles that refer to Jesus. Of the two names, one is a "given" name. The other declares who Jesus was. That is, Immanuel - which interpreted declares that Jesus is God with us! (Matthew 1:18-23) This is why we can attest to the early church receiving the Word of God directly from the mouth of God Himself -- Jesus. Because Jesus was declared to be God manifest in the flesh as a Son. (I Timothy 3:16; Isaiah 9:6)

Indeed, Jesus was the life Seed of the Holy Ghost conceived into the womb of a surrogate mother named Mary. The early believers in the church did not simply repeat Jesus' words but rather focused on Jesus. These believers proclaimed Jesus to the multitudes whilst at the same time endeavouring to digest all of the gospel that they had both seen and heard. Like John the baptizer, they proclaimed that the Lord of Glory visited man. The dayspring from on high hath visited His people. Behold, the the Lamb of God.

In this context, the given name of Jesus was the embodiment of all titles and prophecies that had forgone His incarnation in flesh. No, not just any name. Rather, a Name which is above every other name that is in Heaven and earth. (Acts 4:12; Philippians 2:9) For the name of Jesus is a name that is all powerful.

The scriptures tell us also that "EVERY knee shall bow to the name of JESUS."

But not only will each and every one of us bow before Jesus but we will all likewise declare that JESUS is LORD. That this same JESUS whom ye have crucified in our hearts is BOTH LORD AND CHRIST. (Acts 2:36)  Jesus having said, "I am the root and the offspring of David, and the bright and morning star." (Revelation 22:16; Acts 2:1-47)

Further, JESUS declared to His disciples that if they ask His Father for anything in His name - the name of JESUS He will give it to them. Therefore, the name of JESUS is not just a sequence of identifying symbols. No sir! JESUS' Word was -- and is -- with power. JESUS' speech was not a rehearsed sermon for unlike the religious folk of the day, He did not speak like the scribes and Pharisees.

We know then from His Word, the scriptures, that the name of JESUS is the ONLY name whereby anyone can be saved. (Acts 4:12) But the Word is more than this. The name of JESUS being a name is not a concoction of inserted vowels or a translated name. No. The name of JESUS is given of GOD. In this sense, God did not consult with man before the name of JESUS was given. (Matthew 1:18-23; Luke 1:35)

Indeed, it is no accident that we are instructed to do everything that we do -- in both word and deed -- in the Name of the Lord Jesus. Neither is it an accident that the scriptures tell us that we become clothed in His righteousness when we repent, and are water baptized in the precious Name of the Lord Jesus, because then we come to the knowledge of Him, and how much He loved His people to include the cross, and His shedding of blood -- the perfect sacrifice, the Lamb of God, on the cross.

He ushered in the New Testament, after the Holy Ghost signified that this was the time. (Hebrews 9:8; Hebrews 9:15-18)

Jesus laid down His life for us, so that we through His sacrificial offering of His own flesh could be saved, obtaining redemption for our sins. Thus, because of His sacrifice, we can now approach His throne of grace with boldness because through JESUS all accusatory judgments of sin are dismissed. Our transgressions which were as red as crimson, because of Jesus sacrifice on the cross, wherein He paid the price for our sins once and for all, has made us white as snow. How blessed we are to know that He has given us abundant life, when we turn to our Lord God and Saviour Jesus the Christ in our hearts. But I digress.

Up until His sacrificial death at Calvary, Jesus was declared to be‘God with us.' Now God has provided in the sacrifice of Himself a means whereby He is no longer ‘God with us’ but instead ‘God IN us.'

The only place that God does not occupy is in a man’s heart. He knocks at your heart’s door waiting for you and I to respond to His love. Therefore, let JESUS the LORD GOD who loves you dearly enter into your life today. This is the message that the believers in the early church went everywhere preaching -- JESUS. They were not interested in substituting another name for they received their salvation from the one whose given name was JESUS.

Why? Because the apostles had tasted the water of life (the Holy Ghost) because they asked JESUS for life. He [JESUS] gave them to drink. Now in JESUS they are springing up in the grace of God and knowledge of Him who was in the man JESUS! They called on the "given" name -- the name of the LORD JESUS!

Don't let those who refuse to read their Bible -- His Word -- lead you astray. Instead, remember that Thy Word is truth, and we are sanctified by Thy Word. (John 17:17) And that, "Thy Word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path." (Psalm 119:105)

Stand in the offering plate.

To Wit, That God Was In Christ, Reconciling The World (You and I) Unto Himself - Part 1844

"But now the righteousness of God without the law is manifested, being witnessed by the law and the prophets; even the righteousness of God which is by faith of Jesus Christ unto all and upon all them that believe: for there is no difference. For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God. Being justified freely 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 believeth in Jesus.

Where is boasting then? It is excluded. By what law? of works? Nay: but by the law of faith. Therefore we conclude that a man is justified by faith without the deeds of the law. Is He the God of the Jews only? is He not also of the Gentiles? Yes, of the Gentiles also: seeing [it is] one God, which shall justify the circumcision by faith, and uncircumcision through faith. do we then make void the law through faith? God forbid: yea, we establish the law." (Romans 3:21-31)

The law of faith. That we believe that after that the kindness and love of God our Saviour toward man appeared so that we might have salvation. This discussion is important because of the thousands of Jews which do believe, and yet remain zealous of the law. The apostles had to deal with this desire for believing Jews to incorporate the law in their day to day. In one place the scripture refers to this mixture of law and grace as mixing the new wine with the old. As we know from this latter analogy, the wineskins will break, and thus, the wine lost. But I digress.

And when they heard [it], they glorified the Lord and said unto him, "Thou sees, brother, how many thousands of Jews there are which believe, and they are all zealous of the law. And they are informed of thee, that thou teaches all the Jews which are among the Gentiles to forsake Moses, saying that they ought not to circumcise their children, neither to walk after the customs." (Acts 21:20-21)

"I say then, "Have they stumbled that they should fall?" God forbid: but rather through their fall salvation is come unto the Gentiles, for to provoke them to jealousy. Now if the fall of them be the riches of the world, and the diminishing of them the riches of the Gentiles; how much more their fulness?

For I speak to you Gentiles, inasmuch as I am the apostle of the Gentiles, I magnify mine office: if by any means I may provoke to emulation them which are my flesh, and might save some of them. For if the casting away of them be the reconciling of the world, what shall the receiving of them be, but life from the dead? For if the firstfruit be holy, the lump is also holy: and if the root be holy, so are the branches. And if some of the branches be broken off, and thou, being a wild olive tree, wert grafted in among them, and with them partakest of the root and fatness of the olive tree; boast not against the branches. But if thou boast, thou bearest not the root, but the root thee. Thou wilt say then, "The branches were broken off, that I might be grafted in."

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

For if thou wert cut out of the olive tree which is wild by nature, and wert graffed contrary to nature into a good olive tree: how much more shall these, which be the natural branches, be grafted into their own olive tree?" (Romans 11:11-24)

But some did not believe that the grace and mercy of our Lord God and Saviour Jesus the Christ was sufficient. And, consequently, there were those who would not accept that the holy precious blood shed on the cross paid the price for our sins. That Jesus death and resurrection was more than sufficient for us to receive His gift of salvation. He paid the price so that we could be set free. He justifies us with the shedding of His blood, having become the perfect sacrifice -- the Lamb of God for those who believe.

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

But sadly, not everyone receives the good news gospel message, wherein they desire to understand and accept that our Lord God loved us so much that He would come forth as a mighty man. The Word made flesh and dwelt among us, so that we could behold His glory. (John 1:1-18; I Timothy 3:16; Revelation 1:8) Instead, these wanted to justify themselves, suggesting that these have done good works, and helped people, and obeyed the Ten Commandments. Nevertheless, what does apostle Paul say about mixing grace and the law?

"O foolish Galatians, who hath bewitched you, that ye should not obey the truth, before whose eyes Jesus Christ hath been evidently set forth, crucified among you? This only would I learn of you, "Received ye the Spirit by the works of the law, or by the hearing of faith?" Are ye so foolish? having begun in the Spirit, are ye now made perfect by the flesh? Have ye suffered so many things in vain? if it be yet in vain.

He therefore that ministers to you the Spirit, and works miracles among you, does he it by the works of the law, or by the hearing of faith?

Even as Abraham believed God, and it was accounted to him for righteousness. Know ye therefore that they which are of faith, the same are the children of Abraham. And the scripture, foreseeing that God would justify the heathen through faith, preached before the gospel unto Abraham, saying, "In thee shall all nations be blessed."

So then they which be of faith are blessed with faithful Abraham. For as many as are of the works of the law are under the curse: for it is written, "Cursed is every one that continues not in all things which are written in the book of the law to do them." But that no man is justified by the law in the sight of God, it is evident: for, "The just shall live by faith." And the law is not of faith: but, "The man that doeth them shall live in them."

Christ hath redeemed us from the curse of the law, being made a curse for us: for it is written, "Cursed is every one that hangeth on a tree: that the blessing of Abraham might come on the Gentiles through Jesus Christ; that we might receive the promise of the Spirit through faith."

Brethren, I speak after the manner of men; Though it be but a man's covenant, yet if it be confirmed, no man disannulleth, or addeth thereto. Now to Abraham and his seed were the promises made. He saith not, "And to seeds, as of many; but as of one." And to thy seed, which is Christ.

And this I say, that the covenant, that was confirmed before of God in Christ, the law, which was four hundred and thirty years after, cannot disannul, that it should make the promise of none effect. For if the inheritance be of the law, it is no more of promise: but God gave it to Abraham by promise.

Wherefore then serveth the law? It was added because of transgressions, till the seed should come to whom the promise was made; and it was ordained by angels in the hand of a mediator. Now a mediator is not a mediator of one, but God is one.

Is the law then against the promises of God? God forbid: for if there had been a law given which could have given life, verily righteousness should have been by the law. But the scripture hath concluded all under sin, that the promise by faith of Jesus Christ might be given to them that believe. But before faith came, we were kept under the law, shut up unto the faith which should afterwards be revealed.

Wherefore the law was our schoolmaster to bring us unto Christ, that we might be justified by faith. But after that faith is come, we are no longer under a schoolmaster. For ye are all the children of God by faith in Christ Jesus. For as many of you as have been baptized into Christ have put on Christ.

There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither bond nor free, there is neither male nor female: for ye are all one in Christ Jesus. And if ye be Christ's, then are ye Abraham's seed, and heirs according to the promise." (Galatians 5:-26)

Note that water baptism is included herein, because water baptism is the answer of a good conscience toward God, wherein we enter into His death by going into the water, and similarly His resurrection when we come forth from the water in the precious Name of the Lord Jesus Christ. (Acts 2:36-41; Romans 6:3-4; I Peter 3:21-22; Acts 10:44-48)

It is then, after we take that step into the water in the precious Name of the Lord Jesus Christ, that we are clothed in His righteousness, and He fills us with the Holy Ghost. (Acts 2:38) This is a promise to us and to our children and likewise to those who are afar off. Therefore, when we do everything that we do in the Name of the Lord Jesus, we begin a faith journey wherein we press forward, flowing through the love of Jesus in our heart to those who are all around us. And we do so because of His love for us, not because of anything that we can do in and of ourselves. In other words, as Jesus so clearly points out, "I have chosen and ordained you ..." 

The giver of life, the Creator of this universe and all that is within has reached down from the heavens so that you might have salvation in Him. The dayspring from on high hath visited His people. We have a choice to love our Lord God and Saviour Jesus the Christ with all our heart, soul, mind, and strength, or to look back and try to justify our acts of kindness as being sufficient. 

But as the scripture states, "As for me and my household, we will serve the Lord!" 

Stand in the offering plate.

These Sayings Are Faithful And True: And the Lord God Of The Holy Prophets Sent His Angel To Show Unto the Servants The Things Which Must Shortly Be Done - Part 1843

"Thy Word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path." (Psalm 119:105)

John (who wrote the last book of the New Testament )-- the Book of Revelation, which is intended to reveal the goodness and mercy of our Lord God and Saviour Jesus the Christ to us, heard a great voice out of heaven saying, "Behold, the tabernacle of God is with men, and He will dwell with them, and they shall be His people, and God Himself shall be with them, and be their God. And God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes; and there shall be no more death, neither sorrow, nor crying, neither shall there be any more pain: for the former things are passed away." And He that sat upon the throne said, "Behold, I make all things new." And He said unto me, "Write: for these words are true and faithful."

Indeed, the scriptures that John is attesting to herein as "true and faithful" are forever established in heaven. And the scriptures speak of the Word -- the same Word that was in the beginning with God and was God. (John 1:1-2) The same God who was made flesh and dwelt among us so that we could and would behold His glory. (John 1:1-14; I Timothy 3:16; Isaiah 9:6) The same Word who said, "I am the Way, the Truth, and the Life. No man comes to the Father but by Me!" (John 14:6) 

When we hear the Word of the Lord because He has heard our voice, as the scriptures declare, we render our heart decision. In this context, as Jesus points out, one can't serve the Light, while still full of darkness. Either we will serve one master more, and the other less, or vice-versa. The bottom line being that no man can serve two masters. 

Moreover, if you want to eat bread in the kingdom of heaven, you need to first come to the Bread of life. The living Word who was in the world and the world made by Him and yet the world knew Him not. (John 1:10-11) His Name is JESUS, for He shall save His people from their sins. (Matthew 1:18-23) And when we ask Jesus to come into our heart as our King, we soon realize too (as did the first 3,000 souls saved on the day of Pentecost) that He is both Lord and Christ. (Luke 14:15; Acts 2:36-38) The King of kings and Lord of lords. And yes, He is the Alpha and Omega, the first and the last, the beginning and the ending. (Revelation 1:8) 

Not two gods or three gods, or a triad as the religious falsely present, but rather, as the One and very Same God who robed Himself in flesh for you and I (yet without sin). And this God? He is the Lord, which hath showed us light. God is the Lord. (Genesis 118:27) 

"Thou art my God and I will praise thee: Thou art my God, I will exalt Thee." (Psalm 118:27-28)

But sadly, in today's world, there are too many who don't want to submit to His Word, the promised Christ who ushered in for us a new testament, wherein His holy blood was willingly shed on the cross so that we could experience salvation in Him. (Hebrews 9:15-18) Neither do these hope in Thy Word,  or meditate on the Word as He instructs, or sought the Lord as their hiding place and shield. Nevertheless, as Jesus said, "he that hath received His testimony hath set to his seal that God is true." (John 3:33) And thus, we as believers in Jesus by faith will gladly rejoice at Thy Word, as one that finds great treasure. (Psalm 119:162) 

In Acts 2, on the day of Pentecost, those who gladly received the Word repented and were baptized in the precious Name of the Lord Jesus Christ, so that these could receive the Holy Ghost in their heart. (Acts 2:36-47) Why? Because the Lord hath commanded us who desire in our hearts to love Him with all our heart, soul, mind, and strength, and also, to keep Thy precepts diligently. (Psalm 119:4; Deuteronomy 6:4; Mark 12:29-31) 

Yes, "Thy testimonies have I taken as an heritage for ever, for they are the rejoicing of my heart." (Psalm 119:111; Philemon 1:6)

"I will praise Thee, for Thou hast heard me, and art become my salvation. The stone which the builders refused is become the head [stone] of the corner. This is the Lord's doing; it is marvellous in our eyes. This is the day which the Lord hath made; we will rejoice in it." (Psalms 118:21-24)

And thus, "for ever, O Lord, Thy Word is settled in heaven. Thy faithfulness is unto all generations: Thou hast established the earth, and it abides. They continue this day according to Thine ordinances: for all are Thy servants. Unless Thy law had been my delights, I should then have perished in mine affliction. I will never forget Thy precepts: for with them Thou hast quickened me. I am Thine, save me: for I have sought Thy precepts. The wicked have waited for me to destroy me: but I will consider [give attention to] Thy testimonies." (Psalm 119:89-96)

And He said unto me, writes John, "It is done. I am Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the end. I will give unto him that is athirst of the fountain of the water of life freely. He that overcomes shall inherit all things; and I will be his God, and he shall be My son." (Revelation 21:3-7; Revelation 1:8)

Why? 

"For He hath put all things under His feet. But when He saith all things are put under [him], it is manifest that HE IS EXCEPTED, which did put all things under Him. And when all things shall be subdued unto Him, then shall the Son also Himself be subject unto Him that put all things under Him, that God may be all in all .... else what shall they do which are baptized, for the dead if the dead rise not at all? Why are they then baptized for the dead? And why stand we in jeopardy every hour?" (I Corinthians 15:26-29)

You see, the plan of salvation that was in the bosom of the Father from the beginning of the world was to find those hearts who desired to become the sons and daughters of the Most High. A mighty army within the world, pointing those who did not believe to the Light of the world. A chosen people willing to give Him their all in all. 

It is for this reason the right hand of the Lord is exalted, the right hand of the Lord doth valiantly. (Psalm 118:16)

And likewise, because of that right hand of the Lord -- Jesus -- we as believers can be assured that this same Lord is our strength and song, and is become our salvation too. Stand in the offering plate.