How Beautiful Are The Feet Of Them Who Preach The Gospel Of Peace - Part 2261

"After this He [Jesus] went down to Capernaum, He, and His mother, and His brethren, and His disciples: and they continued there not many days. And the Jews’ passover was at hand, and Jesus went up to Jerusalem, and found in the temple those that sold oxen and sheep and doves, and the changers of money sitting: and when He had made a scourge of small cords, He drove them all out of the temple, and the sheep, and the oxen; and poured out the changers’ money, and overthrew the tables; and said unto them that sold doves, "Take these things hence; make not My Father’s house an house of merchandise."

And His disciples remembered that it was written, "The zeal of thine house hath eaten Me up." Then answered the Jews and said unto Him, "What sign shewest Thou unto us, seeing that Thou doest these things?" Jesus answered and said unto them, "Destroy this temple, and in three days I will raise it up." Then said the Jews, "Forty and six years was this temple in building, and wilt Thou rear it up in three days?" But He spake of the temple of His body.

When therefore He was risen from the dead, His disciples remembered that He had said this unto them; and they believed the scripture, and the Word which Jesus had said.

Now when He was in Jerusalem at the passover, in the feast day, many believed in His Name, when they saw the miracles which He did. But Jesus did not commit Himself unto them, because He knew all [men] and needed not that any should testify of man: for He knew what was in man." (John 2:12-25)

But in today's world, how many understand what Jesus did here? Even among the believing community? Herein, Jesus went into the temple and turned the tables. Indeed, He drove them out. He poured out the changer's money. He overthrew the tables. And Jesus said to those who sold doves, " "Take these things hence; make not My Father’s house an house of merchandise."

Why is this important to understand? Because the same thing is happening again. The churches who are supposed to be doing the Lord's work, and creating disciples (labourers) who will go forth and bring in His harvest through the preaching of the good news gospel, and His Name, have lost their way. Instead of empowering the congregation with His Word -- as it is written, many have joined forces with the world.

But as the Lord said in Luke 16, ye cannot serve two masters. Our hearts have to become totally committed to the things of the Lord. Not divided in heart, as were the money changers, who wanted to be blessed monetarily from the worldly currency, but rather knowing that the Lord Jesus has a unique purpose for each and everyone of us -- when we willingly step out in faith, believing on Him for our sustenance and life. It is in this context that we need to begin standing in the offering plate.

In fact, the Lord says to prove Him faithful in all things. Just like the boy who willingly gave up the five loaves and two fishes, knowing in his heart that his measly offering could not feed the multitudes of 5,000, but he believed enough to understand that the Lord Jesus was able to pick up the shortfall.

Let's begin to recognize that our measly offerings are just that -- measly, but that the Lord of glory picks up the shortfall. He is the One who multiplies the measly, and blesses those who honour and love Him with all their heart, soul, mind and strength. It is the Lord who makes the stream within the desert so that we can drink from His living water.

Thus, pray therefore that the Lord of the harvest would send forth labourers into His harvest. Why? Because the harvest truly is plenteous but the labourers are few. Indeed, there are multitudes of people who need to hear the saving gospel of the Lord Jesus the Christ.  Multitudes are in the valley of decision, awaiting the message that only He can give. The question is this. How can they hear the gospel of Jesus without a preacher or preach this gospel except they be sent?

Because, as the scripture saith, "How beautiful are the feet of them who preach the gospel of peace."

Meditate on these things this day. Open your New Testament and understand the love of Jesus that surpasses all understanding. Stand in the offering plate.

Jesus Is A Mighty King, Alpha And Omega, The Beginning And Ending Of All Things, Amen - Part 2260

What future is there when people vainly conspire against the Almighty God? When nations choose to create futile plans? And these same foolish nations plan their little plots against Almighty God? The global turmoil that emerges should be apparent, particularly when the kings and rulers of the earth assemble themselves together with a common cause against the Lord Jesus -- who is God in Christ. 

"To wit, God was in Christ reconciling the world unto Himself ..." (II Corinthians 5:19)

Yes, these haters of the Lord God Almighty mustered together against Thy holy child Jesus whom was anointed and consecrated and marked out as the Messiah (or God with us -- Emmanuel!). (Matthew 1:21-23) But it was not only Herod and Pontius Pilate that conspired with the nations. The people of Israel also conspired! 

Indeed, all unredeemed men and women at one time or another plotted to carry out what Thy hand and Thy will had destined from the beginning. That is, in order to remit the sins that had entered the world by one man Adam in the Garden, the Lord provided a way of redemption. In fact, if we think about it, the people (in their ignorance) still accomplished all that Thy power and wisdom had already decreed.

Thus, Lord, hear our prayer. Give attention to their threat. Enable your servants to speak Thy Word with freedom of utterance, with all fearless courage, and to continue preaching Thy message of deliverance! Lord, stretch forth Thy hand to heal so that mighty signs and wondrous marvels may be performed by Christ Jesus who indwells You -- Almighty God. Lord, we wait with expectancy as our enemies -- Thy enemies -- are put to flight by the preaching and delivery of Thy redeeming Word and power.

This is why Jesus is referred to in the scriptures as the First and the Last. The Alpha and the Omega, the beginning and the ending. Yes, Jesus is the Light brighter than the noon day sun. God has decreed that in all things, Jesus who is God manifest in flesh as a Son, shall have the pre-eminence. All things were made by Him and for Him and through Him. He is before all things and without Him, there is nothing made that is made.

This is why our hope can be found in Christ Jesus, for He paved the way for our salvation.

As a result of laying aside the counsel of God as His directive to His beloved creation, men and women have sadly become enemies of God. Separate from God devising all sorts of hopeless plans but outside of the will of God. Indeed, even those remedial plans that may sound good and are endorsed by eloquent orators become akin to the analogy of more hot air being espoused. 

Why? Because the bottom line has always been that nations who choose not to serve God do not prosper, just like the cake in the oven fails when the right ingredients are missed.

Still, in spite of man's initial response to God our Saviour and His blessings and kindness to one and all, God in Jesus the Christ by His wisdom and power devised a plan of salvation whereby men and women could be reinstated into fellowship with the Creator. The same Spirit of the Lord God who moved upon the face of the waters in the beginning. (Genesis 1:1-2) 

But we need to also recognize, like the cake illustration, that Jesus is the missing ingredient for each and every one of our lives. It is for this reason that we need to acknowledge the God who was in Christ --- Christ in God. For God has glorified His only begotten Son Jesus. God has declared that Jesus not only was in the Christ, but that He (being Jesus) is also the Lord over all things. This explains why the angels of God worship Him - Jesus. It also offers a rational as to why men and women (and nations) fall.

But it does not have to be this way. When we personally make our own individual personal declaration that this man Jesus is the Wisdom and the Glory of the Spirit of God, we are no longer blowing hot air. Just like the scriptures in John 3:16, God is not willing that any should perish. He wants to converse with each and every one of us. He wants us to know that JESUS is the Resurrection and the Life. 

His desire is to hear ye Him. This is why we who believe look to JESUS for He Alone is God! Christ in God will save us from the deceptive promises of unredeemed men. If you have a New Testament Bible, open it up and begin reading. Ask the Lord Jesus to establish your steps in all things for He is able and willing. As well, pray without ceasing and rejoice evermore, because you have made the best decision ever.

Stand in the offering plate.

Disciples Remembered What Jesus Had Said, Believed the Scripture And The Word Which Jesus Spake - Part 2259

"These things understood not His disciples at the first: but when Jesus was glorified, then remembered they that these things were written of Him, and that they had done these things unto Him." (John 12:16)

"When therefore He was risen from the dead, His disciples remembered that He had said this unto them; and they believed the scripture, and the Word which Jesus had said." (John 2:22)

How many times have we heard that we are disciples of the Lord Jesus Christ, and yet, refuse to believe on the scripture, and the Word which Jesus had said? And yet the disciples did believe on the scripture, and indeed, their hearts rejoiced. In one example, the Lord Jesus expounded on the scriptures, and as the two attest, the Word burned within their hearts. 

From Luke 24:

"And, behold, two of them went that same day to a village called Emmaus, which was from Jerusalem about threescore furlongs, and they talked together of all these things which had happened. And it came to pass, that, while they communed together and reasoned, Jesus Himself drew near, and went with them. But their eyes were holden that they should not know Him.

And He said unto them, "What manner of communications are these that ye have one to another, as ye walk, and are sad?" And the one of them, whose name was Cleopas, answering said unto Him, "Art Thou only a stranger in Jerusalem, and hast not known the things which are come to pass there in these days?" And He said unto them, "What things?" And they said unto Him, "Concerning Jesus of Nazareth, which was a prophet mighty in deed and Word before God and all the people: and how the chief priests and our rulers delivered Him to be condemned to death, and have crucified Him ...

But we trusted that it had been He which should have redeemed Israel: and beside all this, to day is the third day since these things were done. Yea, and certain women also of our company made us astonished, which were early at the sepulchre; and when they found not His body, they came, saying, that they had also seen a vision of angels, which said that He was alive. And certain of them which were with us went to the sepulchre, and found it even so as the women had said: but Him they saw not." (Luke 24:13-24) 

Then Jesus said unto them, "O fools, and slow of heart to believe all that the prophets have spoken: ought not Christ to have suffered these things, and to enter into His glory?" And beginning at Moses and all the prophets, He expounded unto them in all the scriptures the things concerning Himself. And they drew nigh unto the village, whither they went: and He made as though He would have gone further. But they constrained Him, saying, "Abide with us: for it is toward evening, and the day is far spent." And He went in to tarry with them.

And it came to pass, as He sat at meat with them, He took bread, and blessed it, and brake, and gave to them. And their eyes were opened, and they knew Him; and He vanished out of their sight. And they said one to another, "Did not our heart burn within us, while He talked with us by the way, and while He opened to us the scriptures?"

And they rose up the same hour, and returned to Jerusalem, and found the eleven gathered together, and them that were with them, saying, "The Lord is risen indeed, and hath appeared to Simon." And they told what things were done in the way, and how He was known of them in breaking of bread." (Luke 24:13-35)

So many life lessons here in which we can be edified knowing that Jesus is indeed the Lord of glory -- the Way, the Truth, and the Life, because He has risen. The mystery held in the bosom of the Father from the very beginning has brought life and salvation to those who were lost, and without hope. 

But the point of focus for this day is that all which was prophesied to occur in the Old Testament did actually come to fruition -- as it is written. Even still, it took Jesus walking beside the two men to understand that this same Jesus whom ye have crucified is both Lord and Christ. (Acts 2:36) It took Jesus "beginning at Moses and all the prophets" expounding unto them in all the scriptures the things concerning Himself -- for them to recognize the resulting redemption plan that came from Jesus shedding His precious, holy blood on the cross.  

His suffering bringing unto His beloved abundant life. 

What is the outcome? That similar to the two that Jesus walked beside, the scriptures -- "give us this day our daily bread" -- can burn within our heart too when we delve into His Word for our day to day sustenance. 

Why is this important? Because Jesus said, "I AM the Way, the Truth, and the Life!" Indeed, Jesus is the Bread of life. He is the living water from which we can drink and never thirst again. The King of kings and Lord of lords, Alpha and Omega, the first and the last, the beginning and the ending. And in these, Jesus should also be our all in all!

Thus, meditate upon our own heart response to His Word. Do our hearts burn within us knowing that our beloved Creator loved us enough to suffer on a cross for you and I? To willingly become our Saviour? That His love clothes us in His righteousness when we devote our hearts and minds and souls and strength to His purposes?

If you have not asked Jesus to be your Lord and Saviour, please do so today. It will be the best life decision that you will ever make. Stand in the offering plate. 

To This End Was I Born, And For This Cause Came I Into The World - Part 2258

And God said unto Moses, "I AM THAT I AM: and He said, "Thus shalt thou say unto the children of Israel, I AM hath sent me unto you." (Exodus 3:14)

Pilate therefore said unto Jesus, "Art Thou a k/King then?" Jesus answered, "Thou sayest that I AM - a King. To this end was I born, and for this cause came I into the world, that I should bear witness unto the truth. Every one that is of the truth hears My voice." (John 18:37)

And for the record, how does Jesus define truth? "Thy Word is truth!" (John 17:17) Indeed, we are sanctified and strengthened by His wondrous truth. It is for this reason that we study the scriptures -- for "all scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness." (II Corinthians 3:16)

We should also note here that the Lord God is not the Author of confusion. Every scripture has a balancing verse for clarity -- in agreement with one another. We most certainly see this from written prophecies in the Old Testament, wherein these prophecies are later fulfilled (satisfied!) in the New Testament. This is important to understand so that we who believe in the Lord Jesus by faith are not misled or deceived by familiar spirits and charmers, and/or wizards, their respective images and idols, and other abominations-- who are clearly acting without any knowledge of His Word. (Isaiah 19:3; Isaiah 8:19; II Kings 23:24; II Kings 21:6; I Samuel 28:1, 9; Deuteronomy 18:11; Leviticus 19:31; Leviticus 20:6)

Moreover, this agreement is certainly witnessed in the prophetic writings of Zechariah. For those who may not know, the Lord God spoke through the prophet Zechariah about the things that were yet to occur -- when Jesus, the Great Shepherd would lay down His life for the sheep. Note that the prophecies spoken by Zechariah are considered very similar to the prophecies in Old Testament Haggai so again, continued agreement in setting the stage for that particular future moment in time -- when the Lord would come forth as a mighty man. (Isaiah 9:6; Isaiah 42:!3)

In other words, the appointed time when the Holy Ghost this signified -- "This day have I begotten Thee!" (Psalm 2:7; Acts 13:33; Hebrews 1:5; Hebrews 9:8) 

"Now the God of peace, that brought again from the dead our Lord Jesus, that Great Shepherd of the sheep, through the blood of the everlasting covenant ..." (Hebrews 13:20)

 Thus, from Zechariah 13: "And one shall say unto Him, "What are these wounds in Thine hands?" Then He shall answer, "Those with which I was wounded in the house of My friends ..." (Zechariah 13:6)

This prophecy later confirmed when the risen Jesus appears to Thomas (doubting Thomas!) who needed to put his hand in Jesus' side, before He would believe. When Thomas did, what did he say to Jesus? "... my Lord and my God!" (John 20:28)

Another prophecy from Zechariah fulfilled when Jesus was in the mount of Olives with His disciples. Therein, Jesus tells His disciples they would be offended because of this night, when Judas with the guards come to arrest Jesus -- to smite the Shepherd, who had come into this word for His sheep.

The scripture from Matthew: "And when they had sung an hymn, they went out into the mount of Olives. Then saith Jesus unto them, "All ye shall be offended because of Me this night: for it is written, "I will smite the Shepherd, and the sheep of the flock shall be scattered abroad." But after I am risen again, I will go before you into Galilee." (Matthew 26:30-32)

The scripture from Mark: "And when they had sung an hymn, they went out into the mount of Olives. And Jesus saith unto them, "All ye shall be offended because of Me this night: for it is written, "I will smite the Shepherd, and the sheep shall be scattered." But after that I am risen, I will go before you into Galilee." (Mark 14:26-28)

But didn't we just witness the people rejoicing because their King had come unto them in Jerusalem? And, as the scriptures describe -- a just King, possessing the key to salvation, lowly and riding upon an ass, and upon a colt the foal of an ass.  

Indeed, "Behold, thy King! His dominion shall be from sea, even to sea, and from the river even to the ends of the earth." We understand this to be true now, when we learn that this same Jesus whom we have crucified in our hearts is both Lord and Christ. (Acts 2:36-41) And also, that He is risen! 

"When therefore He was risen from the dead, His disciples remembered that He had said this unto them; and they believed the scripture, and the Word which Jesus had said." (John 2:22; John 21:14)

Yes, we who believe are so fortunate to know the greatest love story ever told to mankind. But I digress somewhat.

Again, from Zechariah 9: "And I will encamp about mine house because of the army, because of Him that passeth by, and because of Him that returns: and no oppressor shall pass through them any more: for now have I seen with mine eyes. "Rejoice greatly, O daughter of Zion; shout, O daughter of Jerusalem: behold, thy King comes unto thee; He is just, and having salvation; lowly, and riding upon an ass, and upon a colt the foal of an ass. And I will cut off the chariot from Ephraim, and the horse from Jerusalem, and the battle bow shall be cut off: and He shall speak peace unto the heathen: and His dominion shall be from sea even to sea, and from the river even to the ends of the earth" (Zechariah 9:8-10)

Herein, Zechariah is speaking of Jesus triumphant entry into Jerusalem -- later fulfilled in Matthew 21 and John 12. In the former, "All this was done, that it might be fulfilled which was spoken by the prophet, saying, "Tell ye the daughter of Sion, "Behold, thy King comes unto thee, meek, and sitting upon an ass, and a colt the foal of an ass." Matthew 21:4-5)

In the latter, John writes: "And Jesus, when He had found a young ass, sat thereon; as it is written, "Fear not, daughter of Sion: behold, thy King comes, sitting on an ass’s colt." These things understood not His disciples at the first: but when Jesus was glorified, then remembered they that these things were written of Him, and [that] they had done these things unto Him." (John 12:14-16)

This prophecy written prior to Jesus telling His disciples that they would be offended this night, when Judas along with the guards came to arrest Him in the mount.

Again, from Zechariah: "Awake, O sword, against My Shepherd, and against the man [that is] My fellow," saith the Lord of hosts, "smite the Shepherd, and the sheep shall be scattered: and I will turn Mine hand upon the little ones. And it shall come to pass, [that] in all the land," saith the Lord, 'two parts therein shall be cut off [and] die; but the third shall be left therein." (Zechariah 13:7-8)

As we now know, Jesus came to seek and to save that which was lost. He came to redeem you and I from our sins, and to set us free. This was the mystery that was hid in the bosom of the Father from the very beginning. But like satan, too many want to demote the Great Shepherd to heir status -- even when Jesus said, that He is the Lord of glory.

Thus, the sheep were scattered, and to this day, many offended by the Name of the Lord Jesus. Still, as the Lord saith, "To this end was I born, and for this cause came I into the world. that I should bear witness unto the truth. Every one that is of the truth hears My voice." (John 18:37)

As Jesus said, "I AM the Way, the Truth, and the Life. No man comes unto the Father but by Me!" (John 14:6) Take hold of His truth this day, asking the Light of this world, the Bread of life, the Living Water wherein if we drink, we will never thirst again -- to fill us with His very being. His Name JESUS -- for He shall save His people from their sins. (Matthew 1:21-23)

Stand in the offering plate.

We Ought To Obey God Rather Than Men. The God Of Our Fathers Raised Up Jesus, Whom Ye Slew And Hanged On A Tree - Part 2257

"And last of all He [Jesus] was seen of me also, as of one born out of due time. For I am the least of the apostles, that am not meet to be called an apostle, because I persecuted the church of God. But by the grace of God I am what I am: and His grace which [was bestowed] upon me was not in vain; but I laboured more abundantly than they all: yet not I, but the grace of God which was with me." (I Corinthians 15:8-10)

As I read these scriptures, a question came to me. That is, if apostle Paul (formerly Saul) as he admits, is the "least" of all apostles, where are we (who profess to believe) at in our own lives? For those who may not know, Saul persecuted the believing body of Christ church of God. Indeed, Saul made persecuting believers his life mission. But on the road to Damascus, Saul was blinded by a bright light. Falling to his knees, Saul asked, "Who art Thou, Lord?" Jesus said, "I AM JESUS, who ye persecute." (Acts 9:5)

From Acts 9: " ... and he fell to the earth, and heard a voice saying unto him, "Saul, Saul, why persecutest thou Me?" And he said, "Who art Thou, Lord?" And the Lord said, "I am Jesus whom thou persecute: [it is] hard for thee to kick against the pricks." And he trembling and astonished said, "Lord, what wilt Thou have me to do?" And the Lord [said] unto him, "Arise, and go into the city, and it shall be told thee what thou must do." (Acts 9:4-6)

As we know, the renamed Saul went on to write the majority of the new testament scriptures we know today. Paul also preached the good news gospel of the Lord Jesus Christ while fulfilling his tent-making obligations. Paul traveled for days on end, sharing his testimony with others, and telling of the goodness and grace and mercy of the Lord Jesus Christ.  

Prior to his conversion, Saul was known among peers as the Pharisee of Pharisees, being very well educated.  After his encounter with the Lord Jesus on the road to Damascus, Saul was instructed to visit with Ananias, who later led him forward in the Word, baptizing him in the Name of the Lord Jesus. In his writings, apostle Paul speaks of the many types of persecution he faced.

"... but in all things approving ourselves as the ministers of God, in much patience, in afflictions, in necessities, in distresses, in stripes, in imprisonments, in tumults, in labours, in watchings, in fastings; by pureness, by knowledge, by long suffering, by kindness, by the Holy Ghost, by love unfeigned ..." (II Corinthians 6:4-6) 

Indeed, apostle Paul knew the manifold mercies of the Lord Jesus. From his writings, we know that he was forever faithful in His mission. For example, when the priest of Jupiter was before the city, preparing to make a sacrifice. Paul (with Barnabas) rent his clothes, asking the people, "Sirs, why do ye these things? We also are men of like passions with you, and preach unto you that ye should turn from these vanities unto the living God, which made heaven, and earth, and the sea, and all things that are therein ..." (Acts 14:13-16)

When there was no small dissension about the subject of circumcision, the people determined that they should send Paul and Barnabas to Jerusalem, to respond to the question. (Acts 15:1-3) 

Indeed, one of the attributes we should know about Paul is that he was not only called to be an apostle of Jesus Christ through the will of God, but also a "servant of God" separated unto the gospel of Jesus Christ. (Romans 1:1; I Corinthians 1:1; II Corinthians 1:1; Galatians 1:1; Ephesians 1;1; Colossians 1:1) 

"Paul, a servant of God, and an apostle of Jesus Christ, according to the faith of God’s elect, and the acknowledging of the truth which is after godliness; in hope of eternal life, which God, that cannot lie, promised before the world began; but hath in due times manifested His Word through preaching, which is committed unto me according to the commandment of God our Saviour ..." (Titus 1:1-3)

"Paul, an apostle of Jesus Christ by the commandment of God our Saviour, and Lord Jesus Christ, which is our hope ..." (I Timothy 1:1) And according to the promise of life which is in Christ Jesus. (II Timothy 1:1) 

You see, in all things, apostle Paul praised his Saviour Jesus the Christ, including the time he and Silas sang praised to God in prison. (Acts 16:25-27; Acts 23:18: Acts 25:27) In references, Paul calls himself a willing prisoner of the Lord Jesus Christ. (Ephesians 3:1; Ephesians 4:1; II Timothy 1:9; Philemon 1:9) 

But in all things, Paul was also humble, having repeatedly considered himself a servant of the Lord Jesus Christ. (Philemon 1:1; Philemon 1:9) 

So, the original question is this. We understand why Paul considered himself the "least" of the apostles -- because before he met Jesus (as both Lord and Christ!), he persecuted the believing saints and body of Christ church. To the natural way of thinking, Saul would be saved for his heart conversion, and for knowing who the Lord Jesus was, but herein, as we are witnesses, this same Saul, now Paul was also called to be an apostle of the Lord Jesus Christ. 

How can this be? Because God ordained Paul from the beginning to preach the good news gospel of the Lord Jesus Christ -- the Word of God -- to the Gentiles. (Acts 11:1) Never did Paul waver in his calling, nor did he deny the Lord. In fact, Paul preached boldly at Damascus in the Name of Jesus Christ, having gladly received the Word, as the first 3,000 did on the day of Pentecost. (Acts 9:27) Although I am not ready to formulate an answer to the question, I firmly believe the following scriptures offer valuable insights that can't be cast aside, for we know apostle Paul was diligent in becoming all things in this world -- that he might save some. 

"Then they that gladly received His Word were baptized: and the same day there were added [unto them] about three thousand souls. And they continued steadfastly in the apostles’ doctrine and fellowship, and in breaking of bread, and in prayers. And fear came upon every soul: and many wonders and signs were done by the apostles." (Acts 2:36-47)

"And the multitude of them that believed were of one heart and of one soul: neither said any [of them] that ought of the things which he possessed was his own; but they had all things common. And with great power gave the apostles witness of the resurrection of the Lord Jesus: and great grace was upon them all. Neither was there any among them that lacked: for as many as were possessors of lands or houses sold them, and brought the prices of the things that were sold ..." (Acts 4:32-34)

"Paul, a servant of Jesus Christ, called [to be] an apostle, separated unto the gospel of God, (which He had promised afore by His prophets in the holy scriptures,) concerning His Son Jesus Christ our Lord, which was made of the seed of David according to the flesh; and declared [to be] the Son of God with power, according to the Spirit of holiness, by the resurrection from the dead: by whom we have received grace and apostleship, for obedience to the faith among all nations, for His Name: among whom are ye also the called of Jesus Christ: to all that be in Rome, beloved of God, called [to be] saints: Grace to you and peace from God our Father, and the Lord Jesus Christ." (Romans 1:1-8)

To the churches in Corinth, Paul writes, "Now ye are full, now ye are rich, ye have reigned as kings without us: and I would to God ye did reign, that we also might reign with you. For I think that God hath set forth us the apostles last, as it were appointed to death: for we are made a spectacle unto the world, and to angels, and to men. We [are] fools for Christ’s sake, but [ye are] wise in Christ; we [are] weak, but ye [are] strong; ye [are] honourable, but we [are] despised. Even unto this present hour we both hunger, and thirst, and are naked, and are buffeted, and have no certain dwelling place; and labour, working with our own hands: being reviled, we bless; being persecuted, we suffer it: being defamed, we intreat: we are made as the filth of the world, and [are] the offscouring of all things unto this day.

I write not these things to shame you, but as my beloved sons I warn [you].For though ye have ten thousand instructors in Christ, yet [have ye] not many fathers: for in Christ Jesus I have begotten you through the gospel. Wherefore I beseech you, be ye followers of me. For this cause have I sent unto you Timotheus, who is my beloved son, and faithful in the Lord, who shall bring you into remembrance of my ways which be in Christ, as I teach every where in every church." (I Corinthians 4:8-17)

The answer may be in Paul's further response: "Am I not an apostle? Am I not free? Have I not seen Jesus Christ our Lord? Are not ye my work in the Lord? If I be not an apostle unto others, yet doubtless I am to you: for the seal of mine apostleship are ye in the Lord ..." (I Corinthians 9:1-3)

" ... for the seal of mine apostleship are ye in the Lord!" 

In other words, there was fruit being brought forward -- because ye are in the Lord. 

"Truly the signs of an apostle were wrought among you in all patience, in signs, and wonders, and mighty deeds." (II Corinthians 12:12)

"For neither at any time used we flattering words, as ye know, nor a cloke of covetousness; God is witness: nor of men sought we glory, neither of you, nor [yet] of others, when we might have been burdensome, as the apostles of Christ. But we were gentle among you, even as a nurse cherishes her children ..." (I Thessalonians 2:5-7)

And finally, Paul encourages us to "be not thou therefore ashamed of the testimony of our Lord, nor of me His prisoner: but be thou partaker of the afflictions of the gospel according to the power of God; who hath saved us, and called [us] with an holy calling, not according to our works, but according to His own purpose and grace, which was given us in Christ Jesus before the world began, but is now made manifest by the appearing of our Saviour Jesus Christ, who hath abolished death, and hath brought life and immortality to light through the gospel: where unto I am appointed a preacher, and an apostle, and a teacher of the Gentiles. For the which cause I also suffer these things: nevertheless I am not ashamed: for I know whom I have believed, and am persuaded that He is able to keep that which I have committed unto Him against that day." (II Timothy 1:6-12)

More to come on this subject, but for now, meditate on these scriptures. Stand in the offering plate.

That At The Name Of Jesus Every Knee Should Bow And Confess That Jesus Is Lord! - Part 2256

"For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon His shoulder: and His name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, The Mighty God, The Everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace." (Isaiah 9:6)
What future is there when people vainly conspire against the Almighty God? When nations choose to create futile plans? And these same foolish leaders plan their little plots against the Lord God of hosts? The global turmoil that emerges should be apparent, particularly when the kings and rulers of the earth assemble themselves together with a common cause against you Lord and against You in Christ.

This chaos is clearly explained in prophecy, and now to the point wherein the front page news of every nation can be equated in some part to the scriptures. Are we paying attention? Because right now, they are mustering together against Thy holy child Jesus whom the Lord anointed and consecrated and marked out as Messiah (or God with us).

"And ye shall call His Name JESUS, for He shall save His people from their sins. Emmanuel, being interpreted, God with us ..." (Matthew 1:21-23)

But it was not only Herod and Pontius Pilate that conspired with the nations. The people of Israel also conspired against the Lord's Christ! Indeed, at one time or another, all unredeemed men and women plotted to carry out the same deeds and thoughts that Thy hand and Thy will had destined should happen from the beginning. Thus, in order to remit the sins that had entered the world by one man Adam, the Lord (thankfully!) provided a way of redemption. In fact, if we think about it, the people (in their ignorance) still accomplished all that Thy power and wisdom had already decreed.

Nevertheless, the world is getting darker. We ask Lord that you hear our prayer. Give attention to their threat. Enable your servants to speak your Word with freedom of utterance, with all fearless courage, and to continue preaching your good news salvation message of deliverance! Wherein we who believe in You Lord by faith can be set free from the captivity and bondage of this world.

Moreover, Lord, stretch forth Your hand to heal the sick so that mighty signs and wondrous marvels may be performed by Christ Jesus who indwells You -- the Almighty God. Lord, we wait with expectancy as our enemies -- Your enemies -- are put to flight by the preaching and delivery of Your redeeming Word of Power.

This is why Jesus is referred to in the scriptures as the First and the Last. The Alpha and the Omega, the beginning and the ending. Indeed, Jesus is the Light brighter than the noon day sun. God has decreed that in all things, Jesus who is God manifest in flesh as a Son, shall have the pre-eminence. All things were made by Him and for Him. He is before all things and without Him, there is nothing made that is made.

"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)

But men and women, as a result of laying aside the counsel of God and His directive, have as a consequence become enemies of God. Separate from God, we see men and women devising all sorts of hopeless plans. Even those remedial plans that may sound good and are endorsed by eloquent orators become akin to the analogy of more hot air being espoused. Nations that do not serve God do not prosper, just like the cake in the oven that fails when the right ingredients are omitted.

It is no wonder the Lord through Hosea said, "My people perish for lack of knowledge." (Hosea 4:6)

Still, in spite of man's initial response to God, our God in Jesus the Christ by His wisdom and power devised a plan of salvation whereby men and women could be reinstated into fellowship with the Creator. But we need to recognize, like the cake illustration, that Jesus is the missing ingredient. He is the who that our heart and soul years for.

Therefore, we need to acknowledge the God who was in Christ --- the Christ in God. For God has glorified His Son Jesus. God has declared that Jesus not only was in the Christ, but that He (being Jesus) is also the Lord over all things. This explains why the angels of God worship Him - Jesus. It also offers a rational as to why men and women (and nations) fall when these same folks reject the Lord of hosts. His Name JESUS in this current dispensation of grace. (Acts 4:12; Philippians 2:9)

But it does not have to be this way. When we personally make our own individual personal declaration that this man Jesus is the Wisdom and the Glory of the Spirit of God, we are no longer blowing hot air. Just like the scriptures in John 3:16, God is not willing that any should perish. He wants to converse with each and every one of us. He wants us to know that JESUS is both the Resurrection and the Life; both Lord and Christ. (Acts 2:36-41)

Look to JESUS for He Alone is God! Christ in God will save us from the deceptive promises of unredeemed men. Know too that the Good Shepherd willingly laid down His humanity for you, so that you could have everlasting life in Him. He is our hope and joy and peace. His love for His people -- the greatest love story ever told. Don't delay for time is short.

Stand in the offering plate.

Who Hath Established All The Ends Of The Earth? - Part 2255

"Who hath ascended up into heaven, or descended? Who hath gathered the wind in His fists? Who hath bound the waters in a garment? Who hath established all the ends of the earth? What is His Name, and what is His Son's name, if thou canst tell? " (Proverbs 30:4)

"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 greatest love story ever told. Stand in the offering plate.

That They May Know From The Rising Of The Sun, There Is None Beside Me; I AM The Lord, And There Is None Else - Part 2254

"... but hath in due times manifested His Word through preaching, which is committed unto me according to the commandment of God our Saviour;" (Titus 1:3)

"And without controversy great is the mystery of godliness: God was manifest in the flesh, justified in the Spirit, seen of angels, preached unto the Gentiles, believed on in the world, received up into glory." (I Timothy 3:16)

Because God had a salvation plan from the very beginning, and that was to become our Saviour. (Titus 3:4-7)

"I, [even] I AM -- the Lord; and beside Me [there is] no Saviour." (Isaiah 43:11)

"Thus saith the Lord the King of Israel, and His redeemer the Lord of hosts; "I AM -- the first, and I AM the last; and beside Me [there is] no God." (Isaiah 44:6)

"Fear ye not, neither be afraid: have not I told thee from that time, and have declared [it]? ye are even My witnesses. Is there a God beside Me? yea, [there is] no God; I know not any." (Isaiah 44:8)

"I AM the Lord, and there is none else, there is no God beside Me: I girded thee, though thou hast not known Me:" (Isaiah 45:5)

"... that they may know from the rising of the sun, and from the west, that [there is] none beside Me. I AM the Lord, and [there is] none else" (Isaiah 45:6)

"Tell ye, and bring [them] near; yea, let them take counsel together: who hath declared this from ancient time? Who hath told it from that time? Have not I the Lord? and [there is] no God else beside Me; a just God and a Saviour; [there is] none beside Me." (Isaiah 45:21)

Yes, God is One and there is no other beside Him. One Father who is above all and through all and in us all. (Ephesians 4:5-6) His Name JESUS, for He shall save His people from their sins. (Matthew 1:21-23)

He is not some God talking to two others in undivided union, as some attest, because from His own declaration -- His own Word -- there is no others beside Him. Thus, when some speak of yet another blasphemy -- an economical trinity, wherein apparently, three persons work together to bring about the salvation of mankind, we can once again refer to scripture that shows God Himself willingly became our Saviour, after His kindness and love. (Titus 3:4-7)

Hear ye Him! (Matthew 17:5)

Stand in the offering plate.

He That Built All Things Is God - Part 2253

"Jesus cried and said, "he that believes on Me, believes not on Me, but on Him that sent Me. And he that sees Me sees Him that sent Me." (John 12:44-45)

In another place, Jesus said, "I and my Father are One." (John 10:30)

Then the Jews took up stones again to stone Him. Jesus answered them, "Many good works have I showed you from My Father; for which of those works do ye stone Me?" The Jews answered Him, saying, "For a good work we stone Thee not; but for blasphemy; and because that Thou, being a man, makest Thyself God."

Jesus answered them, "Is it not written in your law, I said, "Ye are gods?" If He called them gods, unto whom the Word of God came, and the scripture cannot be broken; say ye of Him, whom the Father hath sanctified, and sent into the world, Thou blasphemes; because I said, "I am the Son of God?" If I do not the works of My Father, believe Me not. But if I do, though ye believe not Me, believe the works: that ye may know, and believe, that the Father is in Me, and I in Him."

Therefore they sought again to take Him: but He escaped out of their hand, and went away again beyond Jordan into the place where John at first baptized; and there He abode. ? (John 10:30-40)

Sadly, when one suggests that the modern day religious trinity/triad/triune gods teaching is false, or that trinitarians believe in three gods, you will soon hear loud proclamations that suggest this not to be true. Indeed, these will actually state that they do not believe there are three gods in the Godhead -- but rather, there is one God eternally existing in three distinct persons. For purposes of clarity, a trinitarian will cite God the Father, God the Son, and God the Holy Spirit as sufficient but without any scriptural references to back them up. 

Why is this important? Because beyond God being described as a Father, there are zero scriptural references that attest to God the Son, or God the Holy Spirit. [As an fyi, the term Holy Spirit was originally translated in the scriptures as "Spirit in the Holies" -- a topic for another day!]

Moreover, when you read many modern day church statements of faith, we learn that these respective groups believe that each person of the Godhead is distinct, indivisible in essence, substance, unity, purpose, kingdom, and will. But again, this is never expressed in the scriptures. What is clear in the scriptures is the doctrine of Christ.

"Whosoever transgresses, and abides not in the doctrine of Christ, hath not God. He that abides in the doctrine of Christ, he hath both the Father and the Son." (II John 1:9)

"Therefore leaving the principles of the doctrine of Christ, let us go on unto perfection; not laying again the foundation of repentance from dead works, and of faith toward God, of the doctrine of baptisms, and of laying on of hands, and of resurrection of the dead, and of eternal judgment." (Hebrews 6:1-2)

Thus, the doctrine of Christ is foundational as well. But within the walls of man-made institutional religion, the doctrine of Christ has been replaced with a triune god that involves the worship of more than one G/god.

But the first commandment is clear -- "Hear O Israel, the Lord thy God is One Lord; and thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thine heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy might." (Deuteronomy 6:4)

Jesus repeats the same commandment in the New Testament side -- 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." (Mark 12:29-31)

So what has happened that the scriptures have been cast aside for another gospel that is not the good news salvation message of the Lord Jesus Christ? I believe it is because we who profess to believe have not studied the scriptures, and as a consequence, we have been led astray from the truths within His Word. For the nature of God from the very beginning was love -- in that even before God created the world, He looked to this very day for a family. It was His love for His beloved creation that motivated God to be manifest in the flesh, robing Himself in sin-prone flesh (yet without sin) so that we might have abundant life in Him. (I Timothy 3:16; Acts 29:28; Isaiah 9:6)

But like satan was fooled -- thinking that he was killing "the heir" on the cross -- he wants us to view the One and Only God as three separate persons. (Matthew 21:38) Not as Almighty God who not only fills the heavens but the heavens of heavens, and vast enough to create the world as we know it, but the oppressor wants to reduce this same God whose love for His beloved is so vast and forthcoming-- to three separate persons. (Deuteronomy 10:14) Essentially, satan wants us to believe that God is a tri-theism, and not the body of Christ church's One and Only husband to be. 

So in order to keep us in deception, we are told that these three persons are unified in will and purpose -- similar to a modern day board of directors, wherein agreement is sought to ratify decisions. But as we know from the scriptures, there is only One King of kings and Lord of lords; One Alpha and Omega, the first and the last, the beginning and the ending. (Revelation 1:8) One Throne! (Revelation 4:2) In the beginning, God, the same Spirit of the Lord God who moved upon the face of the waters. (Genesis 1:1-2)

The deception is further entrenched when we are led to believe that the trinity consists of only three persons -- no more or no less. To do so, would be denying that Jesus is described in the scriptures as "after the order of Melchisedec." (Psalm 119:4; Hebrews 7:1-3 ; Genesis 14:18) It would also be denying "Shadrach, Meshach, and Abed-nego, ye servants of the Most High God" who came forth from the burning fiery furnace because these would not worship the image. (Daniel 3:15-26) And similarly, the burning bush that Moses saw -- wherein the Lord declared, "I AM -- the God of thy father, the God of Abraham, the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob." (Exodus 3:4) "The Lord God of your fathers, the God of Abraham, the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob, hath sent me unto you: this is My Name for ever, and this is My memorial unto all generations." (Exodus 3:15)

And let's not forget either when God appeared in the door of Abraham's tent. (Genesis 18:1-3) Or that God walked in the cool of the day with Adam in the Garden of Eden. (Genesis 3:8) In the New Testament side, the disciples in the ship thought they had seen a ghost -- before Jesus identifies Himself. (Matthew 14:26) So many examples in the scriptures to counter the false trinity teachings. 

What are some of the other arguments used to convey that Jesus is not God (even though Jesus tells His disciples that "I and My Father are One!" and that if ye have seen Jesus, ye have seen the Father -- Jesus being the invisible image of the unseen God -- John 10:30; John 14:6-12; Hebrews 1:1-3)? 

One argument is that the Father, the Son, and the Holy Ghost share the same identical divine substance and indwell one another at the same time. Where is this found in the scriptures? Again, nowhere, because as we know -- after Jesus was taken up, He through the Holy Ghost gave commandments unto the apostles whom He had chosen. (Acts 1:2-3) The Comforter that would come, when Jesus told His disciples that you would see Me no more. (John 14:19; John 16:10) 

Before the cross, Jesus said, "But the Comforter, [which is] the Holy Ghost, whom the Father will send in My Name, He shall teach you all things, and bring all things to your remembrance, whatsoever I have said unto you." (John 14:26)

Again, before the cross, Jesus said, "But when the Comforter is come, whom I will send unto you from the Father, [even] the Spirit of truth, which proceeds from the Father, He shall testify of Me ..." (John 15:26)

The last to see Jesus? As apostle Paul states in I Corinthians 15:1-8, he was as one borne out of due time. You see, Jesus is not a lesser god, one third of God, or secondary to the Father because as the scriptures state, Jesus is the Word that was with God and was God made flesh. Not a created being, but a body that the Lord God prepared afore so that we could be saved. (John 1:1-3; John 1:1-18)

"He was in the world and the world was made by Him and the world knew Him not. He came unto His own and His own received Him not." (John 1:10-11)

Not a different God but the One and Same God, showing how far He would go to show the world His abundant love for His beloved creation. After His kindness and love, He robed Himself in flesh so that we might experience everlasting life in Him. Toward man, He appeared in the form of a Son. Why? So that satan (the deceiver) would not know the truth. This is why we are warned to  "take heed therefore unto [ourselves], 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)

If satan had known that Jesus was God robed in flesh, which he should have known from tempting Jesus in the wilderness (when Jesus said, "thou shalt not tempt the Lord thy God!") he would not have had the crowds crucify the Lord of glory. (Matthew 4:7; Luke 4:12)

" ... which none of the princes of this world knew: for had they known [it], they would not have crucified the Lord of glory." (I Corinthians 2:8)

Is there more than One Lord? Not according to Ephesians 4:5-6, but ontological trinitarians would have you believe so, by stating that the Father, Son and Holy Ghost are co-equal, and co-eternal in power and glory. How could this be, if the Holy Ghost is a New Testament term -- wherein the Lord prophesied through Isaiah that He was going to do a new thing in this current dispensation of grace; the dayspring from on high visiting His people; the Lord's Christ.

"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)

"Now the birth of Jesus Christ was on this wise: When as His mother Mary was espoused to Joseph, before they came together, she was found with child of the Holy Ghost." (Matthew 1:18)

"... through the tender mercy of our God; whereby the dayspring from on high hath visited us ..." (Luke 1:78) 

"And, behold, there was a man in Jerusalem, whose name was Simeon; and the same man was just and devout, waiting for the consolation of Israel: and the Holy Ghost was upon him. And it was revealed unto him by the Holy Ghost, that he should not see death, before he had seen the Lord’s Christ. And he came by the Spirit into the temple: and when the parents brought in the child Jesus, to do for him after the custom of the law, then took he Him up in his arms, and blessed God, and said, "Lord, now lettest thou Thy servant depart in peace, according to Thy Word: for mine eyes have seen Thy salvation, which Thou hast prepared before the face of all people; a light to lighten the Gentiles and the glory of Thy people Israel." And Joseph and His mother marvelled at those things which were spoken of Him." (Luke 2:25-33) 

If Jesus had been co-eternal and co-equal with God the Father, why would Simeon (being clearly led of the Spirit) not have seen the Lord's Christ prior to that glorious day in the temple. Obviously, he knew the scriptures because he referenced that Jesus would be a Light to lighten the Gentiles and the glory of Thy people Israel -- "according to Thy Word." 

Therefore, if the way into the holiest was not yet made manifest, how could He be co-equal and co-eternal from the beginning? The scriptures never state, In the beginning, Gods as plural. And neither is God the Holy Ghost, or God the Holy Spirit, or God the Son ever stated. But we do know that from the beginning of time, God has always given us a Name wherein we can know Him. Thus, after Jesus is taken up, and He THROUGH the Holy Ghost gives commandments unto the apostles whom He had chosen, we have been given life through His Name. 

"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)

Again, if Jesus was co-eternal and co-existent from the beginning, why would the Lord by the prophet Isaiah have to state ahead of time that a virgin shall be with child, and bring forth a son who they shall call Emmanuel, being interpreted God with us? Or, later as Titus attests, have to manifest His Word through preaching -- according to the "commandment of God our Saviour." (Titus 2:10, 13; I Timothy 1:1; I Timothy 2:3; Titus 3:4; Jude 1:25)

"... but hath in due times manifested His Word through preaching, which is committed unto me according to the commandment of God our Saviour;" (Titus 1:3)

"And without controversy great is the mystery of godliness: God was manifest in the flesh, justified in the Spirit, seen of angels, preached unto the Gentiles, believed on in the world, received up into glory." (I Timothy 3:16)

Because God had a salvation plan from the very beginning, and that was to become our Saviour. (Titus 3:4-7) 

"I, [even] I AM -- the Lord; and beside Me [there is] no Saviour." (Isaiah 43:11)

"Thus saith the Lord the King of Israel, and His redeemer the Lord of hosts; "I AM -- the first, and I AM the last; and beside Me [there is] no God." (Isaiah 44:6)

"Fear ye not, neither be afraid: have not I told thee from that time, and have declared [it]? ye are even My witnesses. Is there a God beside Me? yea, [there is] no God; I know not any." (Isaiah 44:8)

"I AM the Lord, and there is none else, there is no God beside Me: I girded thee, though thou hast not known Me:" (Isaiah 45:5)

"... that they may know from the rising of the sun, and from the west, that [there is] none beside Me. I AM the Lord, and [there is] none else" (Isaiah 45:6) 

"Tell ye, and bring [them] near; yea, let them take counsel together: who hath declared this from ancient time? Who hath told it from that time? Have not I the Lord? and [there is] no God else beside Me; a just God and a Saviour; [there is] none beside Me." (Isaiah 45:21) 

Yes, God is One and there is no other beside Him. One Father who is above all and through all and in us all. (Ephesians 4:5-6) His Name JESUS, for He shall save His people from their sins. (Matthew 1:21-23) 

He is not some God talking to two others in undivided union, as some attest, because from His own declaration -- His own Word -- there is no others beside Him. Thus, when some speak of yet another blasphemy -- an economical trinity, wherein apparently, three persons work together to bring about the salvation of mankind, we can once again refer to scripture that shows God Himself willingly became our Saviour, after His kindness and love. (Titus 3:4-7) 

Hear ye Him! (Matthew 17:5) 

For clarity, Jesus said, "If I have told you earthly things, and ye believe not, how shall ye believe, if I tell you [of] heavenly things? And no man hath ascended up to heaven, but He that came down from heaven, [even] the Son of man which is in heaven. And as Moses lifted up the serpent in the wilderness, even so must the Son of man be lifted up: that whosoever believes in Him should not perish, but have eternal life. For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believes in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life." (John 3:12-16)

Believes in who? As the scripture saith, "whosoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life." The only begotten.

"And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us, (and we beheld His glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father,) full of grace and truth." (John 1:14)

"No man hath seen God at any time; the only begotten Son, which is in the bosom of the Father, He hath declared [Him]." (John 1:18)

"He that believes on Him is not condemned: but he that believes not is condemn

Remember, the Holy Ghost overshadowed Mary so that she could bring forth a Son. Not another God but the One and Same God that was from the very beginning -- the Spirit in the holies. Note also that this happened at a specific time -- when the Lord God said, "This day have I begotten Thee."

"For unto which of the angels said He at any time, "Thou art My Son, this day have I begotten Thee? And again, I will be to Him a Father, and He shall be to me a Son?" (Hebrews 1:5)

"So also Christ glorified not Himself to be made an high priest; but He that said unto Him, "Thou art My Son, to day have I begotten Thee." (Hebrews 5:5)

There wasn't three persons working together in unity because if there were, there would not have to be a declaration by the Lord saying "this day have I begotten Thee." Rather, according to the false economical trinity teaching, the begotten would have already been co-equal -- a third of the Majesty on High. But this is not the case, as the scriptures clearly attest. This may also explain why the word trinity or God in three persons is never discussed in the holy book. But I digress somewhat. 

" ... having made known unto us the mystery of His will, according to His good pleasure which He hath purposed in Himself: that in the dispensation of the fullness of times He might gather together in one all things in Christ ..." (Ephesians 1:9-10: Ephesians 1:1-23) 

You see, the Lord gave His right arm for salvation. Not another but Himself so that we might have life in Him; that in the fullness of times He might gather together in ONE all things in Christ. "And He saw that [there was] no man, and wondered that [there was] no intercessor: therefore, His arm brought salvation unto Him; and his righteousness, it sustained Him." (Isaiah 59:16) 

"O sing unto the Lord a new song; for He hath done marvellous things: His right hand, and His holy arm, hath gotten Him the victory." (Psalm 98:1)

So, if God gave His right hand and His holy arm for our salvation, how can the Father, the Son and the Holy Ghost be co-equal? Does anyone remember who builded the house? "... who was faithful to Him that appointed Him, as also Moses [was faithful] in all his house. For this [man] was counted worthy of more glory than Moses, inasmuch as He who hath builded the house hath more honour than the house. For every house is builded by some [man]; but He that built all things [is] God." (Hebrews 3:2-4)
 

Remember, God is not the Author of confusion. He has clearly given us insight into the mystery that was held in the bosom of the Father from the beginning -- the doctrine of Christ. (II John 1:9) Wherein we see that he who has the Son hath the Father also. Not two different persons but one and the same -- wherein as Jesus clearly said, "If ye have seen Me, ye have seen the Father and know Him." (John 14:6-12) 

Jesus is the Bread of Life. Jesus is the Light of this world. The Good Shepherd who laid down His life for His sheep. 

And once risen, He THROUGH the Holy Ghost gives commandments to the apostles whom He had chosen. (Acts 1:2-3) Not Jesus and a Holy Ghost but through the Holy Ghost which is the very same Holy Ghost that overshadowed Mary so that she could bring forth a son. The same Son of man is the Lord of the sabbath.

"For the Son of man is Lord even of the sabbath day." (Matthew 12:8)

"And when they had lifted up their eyes, they saw no man, save Jesus only. And as they came down from the mountain, Jesus charged them, saying, "Tell the vision to no man, until the Son of man be risen again from the dead." And His disciples asked Him, saying, "Why then say the scribes that Elias must first come?" And Jesus answered and said unto them, "Elias truly shall first come, and restore all things. But I say unto you, That Elias is come already, and they knew him not, but have done unto him whatsoever they listed. Likewise shall also the Son of man suffer of them." Then the disciples understood that He spake unto them of John the Baptist." (Matthew 17:8-13)

Why not until after the Son of man be risen from the dead? Because if the devil knew that Jesus was not just an heir, but the King of kings that owns the cattle on a thousand hills, he would never have allowed the Lord of glory to be crucified. But as we know, the devil does not know love, but instead, only seeks to devour and destroy whom he can. But we are made in the image of the Lord our God, and thus, can know abundant love in Him. 

And that raises yet another point. Where in the scriptures does it ever state that God is them, or that we are to believe in God in three persons? Again -- never! 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. Believe in who? His only begotten Son -- JESUS, who shall save His people from their sins. We are to believe in Him. As Jesus said, "I AM -- the Way, the Truth, and the Life. No man comes to the Father but by Me." (John 14:6) 

If the trinity were true, why would Jesus not have said to Nicodemus to believe in them -- plural. Because Jesus knew that before Abraham was, I AM. (John 8:57-58) For those who may not know, I AM is one of the one hundred plus names God used to describe Himself in the Old Testament. It is no wonder the Pharisees took up stones against Him, because Jesus was clearly telling them who He was. 

For clarity, the scriptures leading up to this from John 8:12-20:

"Then spake Jesus again unto them, saying, "I AM the Light of the world: he that follows Me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the Light of life." The Pharisees therefore said unto Him, "Thou bearest record of Thyself; Thy record is not true." Jesus answered and said unto them, "Though I bear record of Myself, [yet] My record is true: for I know whence I came, and whither I go; but ye cannot tell whence I come, and whither I go. Ye judge after the flesh; I judge no man. And yet if I judge, My judgment is true: for I am not alone, but I and the Father that sent Me. It is also written in your law, that the testimony of two men is true. I AM one that bear witness of Myself, and the Father that sent Me bears witness of Me." Then said they unto Him, "Where is Thy Father?" Jesus answered, "Ye neither know Me, nor My Father: if ye had known Me, ye should have known My Father also." These words spake Jesus in the treasury, as he taught in the temple: and no man laid hands on him; for His hour was not yet come."

[As for the term persons, please note that Tertullian was the first person to use the word persons to describe the Godhead. (Letham, Robert, The holy trinity, pg. 99) But again, God is never described as three persons in the scriptures, and neither is the Godhead described as having members.]

"To wit, God was in Christ reconciling the world unto Himself." (II Corinthians 5:19) 

"Emmanuel, being interpreted, God with us." (Matthew 1:21-23)

And a time was appointed for this same Lord to come forth as a mighty man. (Isaiah 42:13) 

"For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given:and the government shall be upon His shoulder: and His name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, The Mighty God, The Everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace." (Isaiah 9:6)

"For in Him dwelleth ALL the fullness of the Godhead bodily." (Colossians 2:9)

"In whom we have redemption through His blood, [even] the forgiveness of sins: who is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn of every creature: for by Him were all things created, that are in heaven, and that are in earth, visible and invisible, whether [they be] thrones, or dominions, or principalities, or powers: all things were created by Him, and for Him." (Colossians 1:14-16)

"... who being the brightness of [His] glory, and the express image of His person, and upholding all things by the Word of His power, when He had by Himself purged our sins, sat down on the right hand of the Majesty on high." (Hebrews 1:3)

The doctrine of Christ, displayed and revealed to those with eyes to see and ears to hear. And unlike the word trinity, the doctrine of Christ as a foundational doctrine is clearly stated in the Bible. There is no three-ness. This is where trinitarians would insert citations and quotes from men's wisdom -- sigh! 

Let me instead interject another analogy into the mix. That is, what kind of a loving God would He be to send His son to die? Wherein would be the greatest love story ever told? And would we not want to love the Good Shepherd who died for us, shedding His precious blood on the cross so that we would have life.

My hubby likes to say it this way -- if my wife were kidnapped, and I offered my son instead, what kind of character would I have? Desiring to do away with my son so I could keep my wife? In the same context, the body of Christ church is the bride, destined to join in marriage to ONE HUSBAND. (II Corinthians 11:1-3)

"For thy Maker is thine husband; the Lord of hosts [is] His name; and thy Redeemer the Holy One of Israel; The God of the whole earth shall He be called." (Isaiah 54:5)

The salvation message? "For as ye in times past have not believed God, yet have now obtained mercy through their unbelief: even so have these also now not believed, that through your mercy they also may obtain mercy. For God hath concluded them all in unbelief, that He might have mercy upon all. O the depth of the riches both of the wisdom and knowledge of God! How unsearchable are His judgments, and His ways past finding out! For who hath known the mind of the Lord? Or who hath been His counsellor? Or who hath first given to Him, and it shall be recompensed unto Him again? For of Him, and through Him, and to Him, are all things: to whom [be] glory for ever. Amen." (Romans 11:30-36; Ephesians 4:5-6)

Through Him -- the Lord thy God is One Lord -- singular.

"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." (Revelation 21:3)

Stand in the offering plate.

Therefore, If Any Man Be In Christ, All Things Are Become New - Part 2252

"Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new. And all things [are] of God, who hath reconciled us to Himself by Jesus Christ, and hath given to us the ministry of reconciliation; to wit, that God was in Christ, reconciling the world unto Himself, not imputing their trespasses unto them; and hath committed unto us the Word of reconciliation. Now then we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God did beseech you by us: we pray you in Christ’s stead, be ye reconciled to God. (II Corinthians 5:17-20)

In this blog, II Corinthians 5:19 is cited often in reference to the ministry of reconciliation wherein God was in Christ reconciling the world unto Himself. For those who may not know, this ministry of reconciliation began when the Lord God declared peace and good will toward men in Luke 2:14. It was in this current dispensation of grace, wherein the promise of the Lord doing a "new thing" was displayed.

"Behold, the former things are come to pass, and new things do I declare: before they spring forth I tell you of them." (Isaiah 42:9)

"Behold, I will do a new thing; now it shall spring forth; shall ye not know it? I will even make a way in the wilderness, and rivers in the desert." (Isaiah 43:19)

Before "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," the Lord of hosts gave us insight into what was to come. (Hebrews 9:8)

Not an addendum to the Old Testament of ordinances, but instead a new thing, wherein God our Saviour sets us free. As He said through the prophet Isaiah, "I have even from the beginning declared [it] to thee; before it came to pass I shewed [it] thee: lest thou shouldest say, "Mine idol hath done them, and My graven image, and My molten image, hath commanded them." Thou hast heard, see all this; and will not ye declare [it]? I have showed thee new things from this time, even hidden things, and thou didst not know them. They are created now, and not from the beginning; even before the day when thou heard them not; lest thou shouldest say, "Behold, I knew them." (Isaiah 48:5-7)

You see, nothing is hid from those who love the Lord thy God with all our heart, soul, mind, and strength. In this new dispensation of grace, His Name is JESUS, for He shall save His people from their sins... Emmanuel, being interpreted, God with us. (Matthew 1:21-23)

Another example? "And when the unclean spirit had torn him, and cried with a loud voice, he came out of him. And they were all amazed, insomuch that they questioned among themselves, saying, "What thing is this? What new doctrine [is] this? For with authority commands He even the unclean spirits, and they do obey Him." And immediately his fame spread abroad throughout all the region round about Galilee." (Mark 1:26-28)

This is the Lord that we serve, who fills us with His peace and joy and love when we turn our hearts and minds toward Him. He laid the path with open arms when He shed His precious, holy blood on that cross, so that we might have abundant life in Him. And for the record, we (His beloved creation) were so much on His mind that He decided to bring us salvation even before the world was formed. Now that is love of the highest order. He set the stage for us to commune with our Creator. All we have to do is say yes and turn our lives over to Him -- as our Lord God and Saviour Jesus the Christ.

His promise?

"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, "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." (Revelation 21:4-6)

Stand in the offering plate.