For The Seed Shall Be Prosperous; The Vine Shall Giver Her Fruit; And The Ground Shall Give Her Increase; And The Heavens Shall Give Their Dew - Part 2159

And the Lord said, "Whereunto then shall I liken the men of this generation? and to what are they like? They are like unto children sitting in the marketplace, and calling one to another, and saying, "We have piped unto you, and ye have not danced; we have mourned to you, and ye have not wept. For John the [baptizer] came neither eating bread nor drinking wine; and ye say, "he hath a devil." The Son of man is come eating and drinking; and ye say, "Behold a gluttonous man, and a winebibber, a friend of publicans and sinners!" But wisdom is justified of all her children." (Luke 7:31-35; Matthew 11:16-19)

Earlier, the Pharisees had asked Jesus' disciples, "Why eat your Master with the publicans and sinners?" When Jesus heard that, He said unto them, "They that be whole need not a physician but they that are sick. But go ye and learn what that means, "I will have mercy and not sacrifice; for I am not come to call the righteous, but sinners to repentance." (Matthew 9:12-13; Galatians 2:15)

In the former covenant, the Lord God declared through Hosea -- "For I desired mercy, and not sacrifice; and the knowledge of God more than burnt offerings." (Hosea 6:6) Thus, the changing of the guard between the old and the New Testament when the days of visitation and the days of recompense would come. (Hosea 9:7)  When the dayspring from on high would visit His people, declaring peace and goodwill to one and all.

"... 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)

At this appointed time, the ordinances of divine service and a worldly sanctuary was replaced with the body of Christ church, wherein Jesus (as both Lord and Christ) is the Head of His church, having entered once into the holy place, having obtained eternal redemption for us. 

"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 9:11-18) 

But as we see here, the scribes and Pharisees did not understand who Jesus was -- the promised Christ, the prophesied Messiah, God manifest in the flesh, the Saviour who had come to redeem His people. The Word made flesh, dwelling among us so that we could behold His glory. The first man Adam -- earthy, but the second -- the Lord from heaven. 

He tore the veil from top to bottom -- from heaven to earth so that God could have a real family, His beloved Bride which we know as the Bride of Christ. Indeed, He paid the ultimate price so that we might have everlasting life in Him. 

"After the mercy and love of God our Saviour toward man appeared ..." (Titus 3:4-7) 

"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) 

Sadly, not everyone would believe in Jesus by faith. But there was one woman who was willing to give her all, and when she discovered that Jesus sat at meat in the Pharisee's house, brought a alabaster box of ointment, standing at His feet behind Him weeping. As the scriptures state, she began wash His feet with tears, and wipe them with the hairs of her head and kiss His feet. She knew in whom she served, and she was not going to be sidetracked by the actions or commentary of her peers. 

Herein the example. Let those with ears to hear, hear. Stand in the offering plate.

"And one of the Pharisees desired Him that He would eat with him. And He went into the Pharisee’s house, and sat down to meat. And, behold, a woman in the city, which was a sinner, when she knew that Jesus sat at meat in the Pharisee’s house, brought an alabaster box of ointment, and stood at His feet behind [Him] weeping, and began to wash His feet with tears, and did wipe [them] with the hairs of her head, and kissed His feet, and anointed [them] with the ointment. 

Now when the Pharisee which had bidden Him saw [it], he spake within himself, saying, "This man, if He were a prophet, would have known who and what manner of woman [this is] that toucheth Him: for she is a sinner." And Jesus answering said unto him, "Simon, I have somewhat to say unto thee." And he saith, "Master, say on." 

"There was a certain creditor which had two debtors: the one owed five hundred pence, and the other fifty. And when they had nothing to pay, h/He frankly forgave them both. Tell me therefore, which of them will love h/Him most?" Simon answered and said, "I suppose that [he], to whom h/He forgave most." And He said unto him, "Thou hast rightly judged." 

And [Jesus] turned to the woman, and said unto Simon, "See thou this woman? I entered into thine house, thou gave Me no water for My feet: but she hath washed My feet with tears, and wiped [them] with the hairs of her head; thou gave Me no kiss: but this woman since the time I came in hath not ceased to kiss My feet. My head with oil thou didst not anoint: but this woman hath anointed My feet with ointment. Wherefore I say unto thee, "Her sins, which are many, are forgiven; for she loved much: but to whom little is forgiven, [the same] loveth little."

And He said unto her, "Thy sins are forgiven." And they that sat at meat with Him began to say within themselves, "Who is this that forgiveth sins also?" 

And He said to the woman, "Thy faith hath saved thee; go in peace." (Luke 7:28-50)

Jesus Said, "Yet A Little While, And The World Sees Me No More; But Ye See Me: Because I Live, Ye Shall Live Also." - Part 2158

"And all the people that heard [Him] and the publicans justified God, being baptized with the baptism of John. But the Pharisees and lawyers rejected the counsel of God against themselves, being not baptized of him." (Luke 7:29-30)

In other words, those who received the Word, willingly declared the righteousness of God, and couldn't get into the water fast enough. But the Pharisees and lawyers? These rejected the counsel of God against themselves, being not baptized of him. Instead of accepting that John the baptizer was indeed the him of whom it is written, "Behold, I send My messenger before Thy face, which shall prepare Thy Way before Thee" -- these preferred to justify themselves, and stand on the river bank watching, but never getting into the water to be cleansed. (Luke 7:27; Malachi 3:1; Isaiah 40:3) 

The latter response speaks to the heart of men. On one side are those people who love the Lord with all their heart, soul, mind and strength, and similarly flow His love through to others, and on the other -- as we see here, those who reject the counsel of God "against themselves" -- being not baptized. For clarity, please note that John's baptism (before the cross) was repentance. 

"John bare witness of Him and cried, saying, "He that cometh after me is preferred before me, because He was before me. And of His fullness have all we received, and grace for grace. For the law was given by Moses, [but] grace and truth came by Jesus Christ." (John 1:15-16) 

You see, John always pointed to Jesus -- whose shoes latched he was not worthy to unloose. (John 1:27)

This becomes clearer from when Paul having passed thought the upper coasts came to Ephesus and finding certain disciples said unto them, "Have ye received the Holy Ghost since ye believed?" And these said unto Paul, "We have not so much as heard whether there be any Holy Ghost." And he said unto them, "Unto what then were ye baptized?" And they said, "Unto John's baptism." 

Then said Paul, "John verily baptized with the baptism of repentance, saying unto the people that they should believe on Him which should come after him, that is, on Christ Jesus." When they heard [this], they were baptized in the Name of the Lord Jesus. (Acts 19:1-5)

Note again that these believers were willing to be water baptized in the precious, holy Name of the Lord Jesus. In fact, when they heard this message,  just as the first 3,000 souls received on the day of Pentecost, they were baptized in the Name of the Lord Jesus. (Acts 2:36-41; Acts 10:44-48) 

So, what is the difference between the disciples of the early church, and many within the modern day religious culture of this day? In this current time, many point to their infant baptism, when someone sprinkled them with water as a baby (suggesting that this sprinkling is sufficient) -- even when they had no opportunity to repent of their sins beforehand. 

Peter (standing with the eleven) on the day of Pentecost declared, "Repent and be baptized every one of you in the Name of the Lord Jesus Christ for the remission of sins and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost." (Acts 2:36-4) 

Thus, repentance comes before baptism for every one of us.

In the modern day church as well, there is a denial that we are to believe on Him which came after John the baptizer, even when repeatedly John pointed toward Jesus, saying, "Behold, the Lamb of God!" Just like the Pharisees and lawyers above -- who stood on the banks, refusing to get wet -- these current day justifiers reject the key of knowledge, and, therefore, also "reject the counsel of God against themselves." (Luke 7:30) 

Sadly, these deny also that we are to buried with Him / baptized into His death so that when we come up out of the water, we are resurrected like Him, and our hearts and minds renewed. Again, not sprinkled with a handful of water but buried, our old lives replaced by His garment -- so that we can become clothed in the righteousness of the Lord Jesus.

As the scripture saith, "Know ye not, that so many of us as were baptized into Jesus Christ were baptized into His death? Therefore we are buried with Him by baptism into death: that like as Christ was raised up from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life." (Romans 6:3-4)

Moreover, others deny that every person water baptized in the New Testament scriptures (after Jesus was taken up and He [Jesus] through the Holy Ghost gave commandments unto the apostles whom He had chosen] were water baptized into the Name of the Lord Jesus Christ (for the remission of sins / the answer of a good conscience toward God) so that they could receive the gift of the Holy Ghost. (Acts  1:2-3; Acts 2:1-47; I Peter 3:21-23) 

These instead rely on the traditions of men, citing Jesus' words from Matthew 28:19 for guidance. Therein, Jesus commands us to be baptized in the Name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost (or as most say -- Holy Spirit because these do not understand Holy Ghost). And consequently, the traditions of men prevent seekers from understanding that the Name of the Father, Son, or Holy Ghost is JESUS-- the only Name under heaven whereby we must be saved is JESUS, for He shall save His people from their sins. (Acts 4:12; Philippians 2:9; Matthew 1:21-23)

Jesus Himself said, "I and My Father are ONE!" (John 10:30) 

Jesus Himself said, "If ye had known Me, ye should have known My Father also; and from henceforth ye know Him and have seen Him." (John 14:6-7; Isaiah 9:6)

Further, from a grammatical perspective -- F/father is a title. So is S/son. These describe our role of responsibility within society but neither is our name. The same principle applies to Holy Ghost / Holy Spirit. The Spirit of the Lord that moved upon the face of the waters in the beginning is Spirit plus He is holy. " ... for I the Lord your God am holy." (Leviticus 19:2)

"Holy, holy, holy, Lord God Almighty, which was, and is, and is to come." (Revelation 4:8)

Hear O Israel, there is One God and in this current dispensation of grace, His Name is JESUS. (Deuteronomy 6:4; Mark 12:29-31)

You get the point. Either we get in the water in the precious holy Name of the Lord Jesus Christ or we stand on the river banks wherein we reject the counsel of God against ourselves. This is our choice! Know also that water baptism is a huge topic in the scriptures and very worth studying for your learning and edification. And be strengthened in His goodness and grace, putting on His garment of righteousness. 

Stand in the offering plate. 

The Spirit of Truth; Whom The World Cannot Receive, Because It Sees Him Not, Neither Knows Him - Part 2157

"Wherefore I say unto thee, "Her sins, which are many, are forgiven; for she loved much: but to whom little is forgiven, the same loves little." (Luke 7:47)

"And one of the scribes came, and having heard them reasoning together, and perceiving that He had answered them well, asked Him, "Which is the first commandment of all?" And Jesus answered him, "The first of all the commandments [is], "Hear, O Israel; The Lord our God is One Lord: and thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind, and with all thy strength: this is the first commandment". And the second is like, [namely] this, "Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself." There is none other commandment greater than these." And the scribe said unto Him, "Well, Master, Thou hast said the truth: for there is One God; and there is none other but He ..." (Mark 12:28-32)

From the very beginning, we are commanded to love the Lord our God with all our hearts, souls, minds, and strength, as He should be our all in all. This first commandment was given in Deuteronomy 6:4-5, and on the New Testament side, Jesus confirms the same to the scribe in Mark 12:28-31. Indeed, as Jesus said, this is the first commandment of all. And as Jesus continues, the second is like this, "Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself. There is none other commandment greater than these." (Mark 12:31)

Jesus said, "On these two commandments hang all the law and the prophets ..." (Matthew 22:40; Matthew 22:34-40) 

Thus, while the world focuses on bringing us under the law, returning our souls under the bondage and ordinances of the Old Testament, the scribe focused on the truth -- that there is One God and there is none other but He. (Mark 12:32) Herein, the scribe continues, "And to love Him with all the heart, and with all the understanding, and with all the soul, and with all the strength, and to love his neighbour as himself" and that this is more than all whole burnt offerings and sacrifices. (Mark 12:32-33) 

Given the scribe's response, I would venture to suggest that there isn't a whole lot left for this world -- IF we love the Lord with ALL our heart, and with ALL understanding, and with ALL the soul, and with ALL the strength.  That means our everything is the Lord's and that it is He that establishes our steps in the day to day. It also means our nourishment comes from communing with the Bread of life -- the Word made flesh -- Emmanuel, being interpreted, God with us -- JESUS! (John 8:58; John 1:1-14; Matthew 1:21-23; I Timothy 3:16) 

It is no wonder Jesus discreetly answers the scribe, saying, "thou art not far from the Kingdom of God!" (Mark 12:34) For the scribe pared through the commandments and what he heard was -- "Hear O Israel, the Lord thy God is One Lord!" And that this One Lord thy God is worthy of ALL our praise and honour and glory, for He is the Great I AM.

As Jesus stated, "I AM the Way, the Truth, and the Life! No man comes to the Father but by Me!" (John 14:6) Why is this true? Because as Jesus shared with His disciples in the same instance, "If ye had known Me, ye should have known My Father also; and from henceforth ye know Him, and have seen Him." (John 14:7-9) 

As Jesus said in another place, "I and My Father are ONE!" (John 10:30) 

Stand in the offering plate. 

Wherefore Also We Pray Always For You, That Our God Would Count You Worthy Of This Calling - Part 2156

"Therefore, brethren, stand fast, and hold the traditions which ye have been taught, whether by Word, or our epistle." (II Thessalonian 2:15)

"And they continued steadfastly in the apostles’ doctrine and fellowship, and in breaking of bread, and in prayers." (Acts 2:42)

In the last post, we cited scriptural example after example of water baptism in the Name of the Lord Jesus Christ. Indeed, every example of water baptism performed in the New Testament, beginning on the day of Pentecost was in the Name of the Lord Jesus Christ. (Acts 2:36-41) And as the scripture also declares, we who believer are to do everything we do in the Name of the Lord Jesus. 

Sadly, however, those who avoid being baptized/buried in Jesus precious holy name, preferring to falsely proclaim that water baptism is not necessary is just like these in John the baptizer's day, when these preferred to stand on the bank and never get wet -- even when they know that water baptism is necessary according to Peter (standing with the eleven apostles) on the day of Pentecost. Therein, the first 3,000 souls were saved, and they went on to continue steadfast in the apostles doctrine. 

But what is worse in this current dispensation of grace are the many who are water baptized in the titles because of what Jesus said in Matthew 28:19. These do not mention that Jesus said just one scripture earlier, "All power is given unto Me in heaven and in earth." (Matthew 28:18)

Read that again -- ALL POWER is given unto Me in heaven and in earth. All power is given unto Jesus in heaven and in earth. 100% of all power in both heaven and earth were given to JESUS, the forgiver of sins, the redeemer of the lost, and the healer of the broken-hearted.

Conversely, does Matthew 28:19 suddenly mean that the Almighty and omnipresent God -- the God who is and was and is to come -- the same God who made the heavens and the earth and all that is within -- the God who after His kindness and love became our Saviour -- suddenly divide Himself into thirds? Like a third of the living God watching as the crowds crucified another third of God,  while yet another third of God is off trying to comfort us. Of course not! 

How do we know? Because God is still ONE and He is sitting on His throne. And some day very soon, every knee will bow and confess that He -- Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father. Don't be misled by the things of this world or a religious culture gone array. Rather, study the Bible and understand what the Lord has to say in your heart..

"And they were all amazed, and spake among themselves, saying, What a Word [is] this! for with authority and power He commands the unclean spirits, and they come out." (Luke 4:36)

" ... far above all principality, and power, and might, and dominion, and every name that is named, not only in this world, but also in that which is to come." (Ephesians 1:21)

For His message endures forever. Jesus is our hope! Stand in the offering plate.

Know Ye Not That So Many Of Us As Were Baptized Into Jesus Christ Were Baptized Into His Death? - Part 2155

"What shall we say then? Shall we continue in sin, that grace may abound? God forbid. How shall we, that are dead to sin, live any longer therein? Know ye not, that so many of us as were baptized into Jesus Christ were baptized into His death? Therefore, we are buried with Him by baptism into death: that like as Christ was raised up from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life.

For if we have been planted together in the likeness of His death, we shall be also [in the likeness] of [His] resurrection: knowing this, that our old man is crucified with [Him], that the body of sin might be destroyed, that henceforth we should not serve sin. For he that is dead is freed from sin. Now if we be dead with Christ, we believe that we shall also live with Him: knowing that Christ being raised from the dead dies no more; death hath no more dominion over Him. For in that He died, He died unto sin once: but in that He lives, He lives unto God. Likewise, reckon ye also yourselves to be dead indeed unto sin, but alive unto God through Jesus Christ our Lord." (Romans 6:1-11)

However, for many, the idea that water baptism is akin to being buried with Him -- and that we are baptized into death has become a foreign concept, particularly for those who subscribe to the traditions of the modern day religious culture. But what does the Word say? That if we have been planted together in the likeness of His death, we who believe shall also be planted in the likeness of His resurrection. That is our hope! 

Therefore, when we are baptized into Christ, we walk in newness of life. Our minds and hearts are renewed in our Lord God and Saviour. But there is more.  The thread of water and blood has continued from the old into the New Testament. Remember Noah and the ark that was prepared, when all the world was eventually covered with water? Well, following the flood, eight souls were saved -- "when once the long suffering of God waited in the days of Noah, while the ark was a preparing, wherein few, that is, eight souls were saved by water."

And then there was the Red Sea which the Lord God parted so the Israelites could safely pass through the water? (I Peter 3:20) As apostle Paul writes, "Moreover, brethren, I would not that ye should be ignorant, how that all our fathers were under the cloud, and all passed through the sea; and were all baptized unto Moses in the cloud and in the sea; and did all eat the same spiritual meat; and did all drink the same spiritual drink: for they drank of that spiritual Rock that followed them: and that Rock was Christ." (I Corinthians 10:1-4)

That same spiritual Rock that followed the Israelites was Christ. Some are asking -- how can this be? It is for this reason that we study the scriptures -- for the truth and understanding. But let's not digress. 

"For Christ also hath once suffered for sins, the just for the unjust, that He might bring us to God, being put to death in the flesh, but quickened by the Spirit: by which also He went and preached unto the spirits in prison; which sometime were disobedient, when once the long suffering of God waited in the days of Noah, while the ark was a preparing, wherein few, that is, eight souls were saved by water. The like figure whereunto even baptism doth also now save us (not the putting away of the filth of the flesh, but the answer of a good conscience toward God,) by the resurrection of Jesus Christ: who is gone into heaven, and is on the right hand of God; angels and authorities and powers being made subject unto Him." (I Peter 3:18-24)

As Jesus so clearly stated to Nicodemus -- "Except a man be born again, he cannot even see the Kingdom of God." (John 3:3) And again, "Except a man be born of water and of the Spirit, he cannot enter into the kingdom of God." (John 3:5) In other words, we must be born again.
 

But there is also a second part in I Peter 3 -- wherein the like figure whereunto even baptism doth also now save us -- not in the putting away of the filth of the flesh but the answer of a good conscience toward God -- by the resurrection Jesus Christ. 

As Peter clearly pointed out on the day of Pentecost, this same Jesus whom ye have crucified is both Lord and Christ. The first man Adam, earthy, but the second, the Lord from heaven. He was in the world and the world was made by Him but the world knew Him not. He came unto His own and His own received Him not. (John 1:10-11) 

Is this not the same rejection of our Lord God and Saviour when we ignore the very instructions of the apostles on the day of Pentecost?  Nevertheless, in every example of water baptism in the New Testament, these were water baptized by immersion in the precious holy Name of the Lord Jesus Christ. (Acts 2:36-41) 

Then Peter said unto them, "Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the Name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost." (Acts 2:38)

"... (for as yet He was fallen upon none of them: only they were baptized in the Name of the Lord Jesus.)" (Acts 8:16)

"When they heard this, they were baptized in the Name of the Lord Jesus." (Acts 19:5)

"And such were some of you: but ye are washed, but ye are sanctified, but ye are justified in the Name of the Lord Jesus, and by the Spirit of our God." (I Corinthians 6:11)

"And now why tarriest thou? arise, and be baptized, and wash away thy sins, calling on the Name of the Lord." (Acts 22:16)

"While Peter yet spake these words, the Holy Ghost fell on all them which heard the Word. And they of the circumcision which believed were astonished, as many as came with Peter, because that on the Gentiles also was poured out the gift of the Holy Ghost. 4For they heard them speak with tongues, and magnify God. Then answered Peter, "Can any man forbid water, that these should not be baptized, which have received the Holy Ghost as well as we?" And he commanded them to be baptized in the Name of the Lord. Then prayed they him to tarry certain days." (Acts 10:44-48)

"And as they went on [their] way, they came unto a certain water: and the eunuch said, "See, [here is] water; what doth hinder me to be baptized?" And Philip said, "If thou believe with all thine heart, thou mayest." And he answered and said, "I believe that Jesus Christ is the Son of God." And he commanded the chariot to stand still: and they went down both into the water, both Philip and the eunuch; and he baptized him. And when they were come up out of the water, the Spirit of the Lord caught away Philip, that the eunuch saw him no more: and he went on his way rejoicing." (Acts 8:36-39)

"Buried with Him in baptism, wherein also ye are risen with [Him] through the faith of the operation of God, who hath raised Him from the dead." (Colossians 2:12)

"For as many of you as have been baptized into Christ have put on Christ." (Galatians 3:27)

Jesus said, "... he that believes and is baptized shall be saved; but he that believes not shall be damned." (Mark 16:16)

One Lord, One Faith, One Baptism. (Ephesians 4:5-6)

Stand in the offering plate. 

That In All Things, He Might Have The Preeminence - Part 2154

"And He is the Head of the body, the church: who is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead; that in all [things] He might have the preeminence." (Colossians 1:18)

" ... even as Christ is the Head of the church: and He is the Saviour of the body." (Ephesians 5:23)

The written Word establishes that Christ is the Head of the church. The scriptures also establish that He alone saves us from our sins. Indeed, on Him the safety of His body depends. Therefore, the church ought to be subject to Him and only Him. Why? For it is Christ who loves the church -- the betrothed bride. Further, it was Jesus that surrendered His own sinless body of flesh up to death for His betrothed. It was this same Jesus who counted His own sinless flesh body to be incomplete without the companionship of His betrothed. 

Certainly, creation alone would not break the shackles of sin that had engulfed His beloved creation so a salvation plan was established -- that after the kindness and love of God our Saviour toward man appeared. (Titus 3:4-7; Acts 20:28; I Timothy 3:16) 

But the  demands of redemption had to include a righteous man. Similar to receiving a blood transfusion that would replace our sin tainted blood. Indeed, Jesus laid down His sinless flesh and in so doing, Jesus rescued His betrothed, sanctifying and cleansing the body of Christ church. His betrothed church body made holy, purifying and consecrating with His own garment of righteousness.

Yes, the Spirit of God washed His own redeemed betrothed church body with the washing of the water of His indwelling. Loving words of His declared promises inviting His beloved bride to the most elaborate wedding feast ever. The body of Christ church in turn willingly submitting to His words of love to the point of following Him into death -- through water baptism. 

" Know ye not, that so many of us as were baptized into Jesus Christ were baptized into His death? Therefore we are buried with Him by baptism into death: that like as Christ was raised up from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life." (Romans 6:3-4)
It is for this reason that believers who have repented of their sins, and desire to have a good conscience toward God descend into the watery grave -- in His precious holy Name. (Acts 2:36-41; Acts 10:44-48; I Peter 3:23) The born again obediently obeying the words of her betrothed husband -- the King of kings and Lord of lords -- going down into the water and being baptized into a baptismal watery grave. The only heart desire -- to be faithful to God our Saviour.

Thus, the Spirit of God desirous to present to Himself a glorious church-body. This redeemed Church body -- the betrothed bride of Christ -- became His purchased possession. Why? Because there were no limits on His love, and His love proven when He willingly endured the cross.

Now that is love. No one ever cared for His betrothed bride like Jesus did. Yes, His betrothed was totally unfaithful, scarred, bruised, and mangled, encompassed by the wages of sin. The cheeks sunk in. The eyes dead. In short, a total wreck. But it does not have to be that way. God's love -- the love that drew the salvation plan is inviting you to His wedding feast.

If you have not yet asked Jesus to be Lord in your life, today is the time. Tell the Lord Jesus how much you need Him and how you desire His purpose in your heart. Tell the Alpha and Omega, the first and the last, the beginning and the ending how much you need Him to make sense of your life. Simple words. A simple prayer --  "Lord I need you, I need your love today. Come into my heart Lord Jesus."

And then read Acts 2, wherein the first 3,000 souls were saved -- in this current dispensation of New Testament grace. Stand in the offering plate.

Hath God Not Made Foolish The Wisdom Of This World? Lord, The One And Only Good Shepherd, We Give You Praise! - Part 2153

" ... in whom the [god] of this 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." (II Corinthians 4:4)

Continuing from the last post, wherein the topic focused on the increasing number of sermons preaching a worldly/earthly focus, let's understand that the Lord hath called us from the womb to worship Him, and to praise Him and to give Him all the glory and honour and praise -- wherein we who believe can become glorious in the eyes of our Lord -- because of His goodness and grace and mercy.

In becoming our Saviour, He has redeemed us from our sin. Thus saith the Lord, "In an acceptable time have I heard thee, and in a day of salvation have I helped thee, and I will preserve thee, and give thee for a covenant of the people, to establish the earth, to inherit the desolate heritages; that thou mayest go to the prisoners, "Go forth; to them that are in darkness, show yourselves. They shall feed in the ways, and their pastures shall be in all high places. They shall not hunger nor thirst; neither shall the heat nor the sun smite them; for He that hath mercy on them shall lead them ..." (Isaiah 49:8-10)

It is for this reason that we sing in our hearts with joy and we lift up our eyes toward heaven, for we know in whom we believe. And we know that it is He -- God our Saviour that makes us to lie down in green pastures: "He leads me beside the still waters." (Psalm 23:2) The King of kings and Lord of lords -- His Name JESUS in this current dispensation of grace.

And as Jesus said, "I am the Good Shepherd: the Good Shepherd gives His life for the sheep. But he that is an hireling, and not the Shepherd, whose own the sheep are not, sees the wolf coming, and leaves the sheep, and flees: and the wolf catches them, and scatters the sheep. The hireling flees, because he is an hireling, and cares not for the sheep.

I am the Good Shepherd, and know My sheep, and am known of Mine. As the Father knows Me, even so know I the Father: and I lay down My life for the sheep. And other sheep I have, which are not of this fold: them also I must bring, and they shall hear My voice; and there shall be One fold, [and] One Shepherd. Therefore, doth My Father love Me, because I lay down My life, that I might take it again.

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 10:11-18)

He is the Bread of life.  He is the Lord thy maker, that hath stretched forth the heavens and laid the foundations of the earth; and laid the foundations of the earth, the same Lord that divided the seas, and He continues to cover you and I in the shadow of His hands so that He can say, "Thou art My people!" (Isaiah 51:16)

Don't be misled by sermons that spend more time focusing on the things of this world than the Word of God, wherein we are assured of His free gift of salvation, and wherein "My people shall know My Name." (Isaiah 52:6) 

Stand in the offering plate. 

But After The Kindness And Love of God our Saviour Toward Man Appeared - Part 2152

"As is the earthy, such [are] they also that are earthy: and as [is] the heavenly, such are they also that are heavenly ... and as we have borne the image of the earthy, we shall also bear the image of the heavenly. now this I say, brethren, that flesh and blood cannot inherit the kingdom of God; neither doth corruption inherit incorruption ..." (I Corinthians 15:48-50)

Sometimes, when listening to sermons, I believe the point herein is far too often missed. That is, while we have been born in the image of the earthy, we bear the image of the heavenly when our hearts have turned to the Lord Jesus. For those who may not know -- this means repenting of our sins, believing on Jesus as both our Lord and Saviour AND in answer of a good conscience toward God, for the remission of sins, be water baptized in His Name -- the precious Name of the Lord Jesus Christ. Then will we receive the gift of the Holy Ghost, becoming fully clothed in His righteousness. (Acts 2:36-41) The Light of our Lord God and Saviour Jesus the Christ shining from within, giving us strength to carry on in a world that is increasingly void of any Word.

Sadly though, sermons from the pulpits are increasingly being taught from an earthly perspective -- using worldly examples to capture our attention with a single scripture tacked on at the end. The question is this -- How does this align with Jesus' instruction -- "Give us this day our daily bread" -- when the Bread of Life is not even a focal point in an assembling of the saints forum? How do we who believe in Jesus by faith become nourished in the knowledge and wisdom that only the Lord can give us -- think Hosea 4:6 when the Lord saith, "My people are destroyed for lack of knowledge!"

I raise this issue because this past Sunday, I was privy to hearing about the top 20 movies of all time, and the attributes as well that lead to the making of a good movie. This sermon from the pulpit with the approval of a pastoral team too. [For scriptural clarity, allow me to point out that the word pastor is only used once in the New Testament, and that reference contested by some, so when I refer to pastor/pastoral team, I refer to the modern day religious terminology.]

Nevertheless, I learned about what makes the world tick. The sermon highlighting an example that hailed from the world ... a topic that could easily be addressed in any public forum. In fact, so much so, that there would be no offence -- other than some might not agree with the top movie choice of all time. But I digress.

In considering how our churches are changing -- in light of the scriptures and this recent sermon, I began to consider how we tend to speak from a "what-we-know" perspective. Thus, if my knowledge base is in the world and of the world, then I would readily cite examples from the world. Why? Because this is what I know. And if I were to be challenged on a given point, I could effectively respond.

But what if I am only in the world but not of this world, as the scripture declares? What happens when my heart is in the Lord, the heavenly, and as I become further grounded in the Word, the cares of this world and the deceitfulness of riches, coupled with the lusts of other things that (as Jesus points out) that may enter in and choke the Word so that I too become unfruitful -- should no longer be on my radar. (Mark 4:19) Rather, my desire being to know the manifold wisdom of God, and His abundant love for me. (Ephesians 3:10) For God so loved ... and that He is the Good Shepherd who died for His sheep, even whilst these/we were His enemies. (John 3:16; Psalm 23:1; John 10:11, 14-18)

Because in asking Jesus to be King of kings and Lord of lords in our lives, we have stepped into a higher calling, assured forevermore of the kindness and love of "God our Saviour toward man appeared, not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to His mercy He saved us, by the washing of regeneration, and renewing of the Holy Ghost; which He shed on us abundantly through Jesus Christ our Saviour; that being justified by His grace, we should be made heirs according to the hope of eternal life." (Titus 3:4-7) And that this same "Lord shall deliver [us] from every evil work, and will preserve [us] unto His heavenly kingdom: to whom [be] glory for ever and ever. Amen." (II Timothy 4:18)

How is this reconciled in the scriptures?

"Howbeit we speak wisdom among them that are perfect: yet not the wisdom of this world, nor of the princes of this world, that come to nought ..." (I Corinthians 2:6)

"Where is the wise? where is the scribe? where is the disputer of this world? hath not God made foolish the wisdom of this world?" (I Corinthians 1:20)
And, as apostle Paul further instructs (Paul the apostle to the Gentiles) he "kept back nothing that was profitable unto you, but have shewed you, and have taught you publicly, and from house to house ..." (Acts 20:20)

This is why we who believe are called to "avoid foolish questions, and genealogies, and contentions, and strivings about the Law; for they are unprofitable and vain." (Titus 3:1-15) But also because when we pursue the Lord Jesus with all our hearts, souls, minds, and strength, and become armoured with the Word of God, we will know that there is no higher calling than to speak about His goodness and grace and mercy! No other purpose worth pursuing. No other meat that is going to satisfy, regardless of how the tale is spun from current day pulpits. In this context, we may be in the world but we are not of this world. If only those in positions of leadership understood the injustice that these are doing, in not feeding His lambs. (John 21:15)

As Jesus so clearly saith:

"I am the Good Shepherd: the Good Shepherd gives His life for the sheep.

But he that is an hireling, and not the Shepherd, whose own the sheep are not, sees the wolf coming, and leaves the sheep, and flees: and the wolf catches them, and scatters the sheep. The hireling flees, because he is an hireling, and cares not for the sheep.

I am the Good Shepherd, and know My sheep, and am known of Mine.

As the Father knows Me, even so know I the Father: and I lay down My life for the sheep. And other sheep I have, which are not of this fold: them also I must bring, and they shall hear My voice; and there shall be One fold, [and] One Shepherd. Therefore, doth My Father love Me, because I lay down My life, that I might take it again.

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 10:11-18)

Let those with ears to hear, hear and understand what the Lord desires for us this day. Take hold of His truths and don't ever let go. Stand in the offering plate.

Speaking The Truth In Love, May Grow Up Into Him In All Things, Which Is The Head, Even Christ:- Part 2151

"And they put [it] in the hand of the workmen that had the oversight of the house of the Lord, and they gave it to the workmen that wrought in the house of the Lord, to repair and amend the house ..." (II Chronicles 34:10)

Throughout the Old Testament -- in the first [covenant] -- there were ordinances of divine service and a worldly sanctuary. For there was a tabernacle made; the first wherein was the candlestick and the table and the shewbread, which is called the sanctuary. And after the second veil, there was the tabernacle which is called the holiest of all. (Hebrews 9:1-2)

But once the Holy Ghost did signify that the way into the holiest of all was not yet made manifest, while as the first tabernacle was still standing, we knew there had to come a high priest of good things -- a more perfect tabernacle, not made with hands, that is to say, not of this building. Not physical in the sense of constructed buildings either. Neither by the blood of goats and calves, but by His own blood He entered in once into the holy place, having obtained eternal redemption for us all. (Hebrews 9:8, 11-18; Acts 20:28) 

From this monumental point in history, the salvation message was extended to one and all. The same Lord God who made us was reaching into our hearts, having written His laws in our hearts whilst we were still in our mother's womb. His free gift of salvation offered to both Gentiles and Jews, wherein we can now be saved by grace. This grace however is not of ourselves but from God, who loves us beyond measure. This means that in this current dispensation of grace, we can't be saved by good works or chores. Rather, we have to believe on the risen Jesus as both Lord and Christ, and to be water baptized (in answer of a good conscience toward God) in His precious Name -- the Name of the Lord Jesus Christ. (Acts 2:36-41; Acts 10:44-48; I Peter 3:22-23; Romans 6:1-2)

Consequently, we have been set free from bondage, our sins forgiven because of the precious, holy blood shed on the cross. After the kindness and love of God our Saviour toward man appeared. (Titus 3:4-7) This is why we who believe can rejoice, inasmuch as ye are partakers of Christ's sufferings; that when His glory shall be revealed, ye may be glad also with exceeding joy. (I Peter 4:13)

But somewhere along the way, the burdens of the Law are creeping back into the church, and we have (mis)placed our trust in the overseers of faith communities. In preference for tickle the ears sermons, we have allowed the wolves in sheep's clothing to come in and preach to us a lie. We have handed over the work of the Lord to overseers of the church -- to imposters -- who have no interest in speaking the truth.  And sadly, the churches are being saddled with heretic leaders whom have no understanding of the good news gospel of the Lord Jesus Christ. 

In fact, their coats are not washed, as the scripture points out, because these are still naked. And with all deceivableness of unrighteousness in them they are equally determined to bring others to perish with them -- because they received not the love of the truth, that they might be saved. (II Thessalonians 2:10-11) 

But there is only ONE Head of the body of Christ church on the New Testament side, and we need to understand that His Spirit leads and guides us into all truth. He -- Jesus establishes our steps, and brings His wisdom and knowledge, His commandments, His instruction to our remembrance so that we do not fall short. He is our hope and joy and peace, and His ultimate sacrifice on the cross has set us free. The One and Only Spirit of the Lord God who moved upon the face of the waters in the beginning is still bidding us to His most elaborate wedding feast. 

This is why He -- the risen Jesus who is both Lord and Christ -- has set us free. And His desire is to not only call us His children but His friends. Yes, the same Good Shepherd who paid the price for our sins is calling us into a "higher" calling, wherein the truth of the gospel will set us free. Thus, don't become followers of those overseers in the church who profess to be pastors and teachers. Instead search the scriptures and be assured that there is only one Lord -- His Name is JESUS, for He shall save His people from their sins ... Emmanuel, being interpreted, God with us. (Matthew 1:21-23) 

"This I say therefore, and testify in the Lord, that ye henceforth walk not as other Gentiles walk, in the vanity of their mind, having the understanding darkened, being alienated from the life of God through the ignorance that is in them, because of the blindness of their heart: who being past feeling have given themselves over unto lasciviousness, to work all uncleanness with greediness ...

But ye have not so learned Christ; if so be that ye have heard Him, and have been taught by Him, as the truth is in Jesus: that ye put off concerning the former conversation the old man, which is corrupt according to the deceitful lusts; and be renewed in the spirit of your mind; and that ye put on the new man, which after God is created in righteousness and true holiness." (Ephesians 4:17-23)

Stand in the offering plate. 

It Is My People And They Shall Say -- The Lord Is My God! - Part 2150

And I heard another voice from heaven, saying, "Come out of her, My people, that ye be not partakers of her sins, and that ye receive not of her plagues ... for her sins have reached unto heaven, and God hath remembered her iniquities ... how much she hath glorified herself and lived deliciously, so much torment and sorrow give her; for she saith in her heart, "I sit a queen and am no widow and shall see no sorrow." (Revelation 18:4-7)

There is no doubt that we are living in the end times. The prophecies throughout the scriptures that point to the times in which we live are quickly coming to pass. At the same time, more and more within the modern day religious culture are blurring the good news gospel of the Lord Jesus Christ -- the truth of the Lord Jesus the Christ replaced by man-made teachings and the traditions of men. As the scripture saith, these are of "one mind."

"These have one mind, and shall give their power and strength unto the beast." (Revelation 17:3)

Indeed, at no point in history have we seen such determination to promote traditions of scriptures and man-made creeds over the Word of God. (Acts 2:36) Rather, these emerging self-proclaimed (standing in far too many pulpits) are preparing to make war with the Lamb -- the same Lamb who shall overcome them -- for He is Lord of lords, and King of kings, and they that are with Him are called, chosen and faithful. (Revelation 17:12-14; Revelation 1:8, 11)

 As Jesus said, "And, behold, I come quickly, and My reward [is] with Me, to give every man according as his works shall be. I am Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the end, the first and the last." (Revelation 22:12-13; Isaiah 40:10; Isaiah 41:4; Isaiah 62:11)

From Revelation 5:

"And I saw in the right hand of Him that sat on the throne a book written within and on the backside, sealed with seven seals. And I saw a strong angel proclaiming with a loud voice, "Who is worthy to open the book, and to loose the seals thereof?" And no man in heaven, nor in earth, neither under the earth, was able to open the book, neither to look thereon. And I wept much, because no man was found worthy to open and to read the book, neither to look thereon.

And one of the elders saith unto me, "Weep not: behold, the Lion of the tribe of Juda, the Root of David, hath prevailed to open the book, and to loose the seven seals thereof. And I beheld, and, lo, in the midst of the throne and of the four beasts, and in the midst of the elders, stood a Lamb as it had been slain, having seven horns and seven eyes, which are the seven Spirits of God sent forth into all the earth. And He came and took the book out of the right hand of Him that sat upon the throne. And when He had taken the book, the four beasts and four and twenty elders fell down before the Lamb, having every one of them harps, and golden vials full of odours, which are the prayers of saints.

And they sung a new song, saying, "Thou art worthy to take the book, and to open the seals thereof: for Thou wast slain, and hast redeemed us to God by Thy blood out of every kindred, and tongue, and people, and nation; and hast made us unto our God kings and priests: and we shall reign on the earth."

And I beheld, and I heard the voice of many angels round about the throne and the beasts and the elders: and the number of them was ten thousand times ten thousand, and thousands of thousands; saying with a loud voice, "Worthy is the Lamb that was slain to receive power, and riches, and wisdom, and strength, and honour, and glory, and blessing."

And every creature which is in heaven, and on the earth, and under the earth, and such as are in the sea, and all that are in them, heard I saying, "Blessing, and honour, and glory, and power, be unto Him that sits upon the throne, and unto the Lamb for ever and ever." And the four beasts said, "Amen." And the four and twenty elders fell down and worshipped Him that liveth for ever and ever." (Revelation 5:1-14)

Note that these did not say "amen" to some man-made creed that pastors ask the congregation to repeat. Neither do they say "amen" to a them -- a false God in three persons/triad/tri-une god/trinity that the modern day religious culture has wrongly attached itself to. Rather, to Him -- singular -- who sits upon the throne -- unto the Lamb forever and ever, may blessing and honour and glory and power be. To Jesus -- who is the Author and Finisher of our faith.

But those with one mind are determined to keep you from searching the scriptures for the Great I AM -- the Way, the Truth, and the Life. (John 14:6) These don't want you to know that this same Jesus whom ye have crucified is both Lord and Christ. (Acts 2:36) Nevertheless, for those who believe on the Lord Jesus the Christ with all their hearts, souls, minds, and strength can be assured that their Lord God and Saviour is returning to gather unto Himself a bride.

This is the reason why the body of Christ church, wherein Jesus is the Head of the Church are "looking for that blessed hope, and the glorious appearing of the great God and our Saviour Jesus Christ." (Titus 2:13; Acts 20:28)

For He -- our Lord God and Saviour Jesus the Christ -- will reign for evermore. Today is the day of salvation! It is also time to come out from among her, My people, and search the scriptures yourself for that blessed assurance and understanding. Again, as Jesus said, "I AM the Way, the Truth, and the Life. No man [or woman] comes to the Father but by Me!" (John 14:6-12)

Stand in the offering plate.