Now The Lord Is That Spirit; And Where The Spirit Of The Lord Is There Is Liberty - Part 2400

“For our gospel came not unto you in Word only, but also in power, and in the Holy Ghost, and in much assurance; as ye know what manner of men we were among you for your sake. And ye became followers of us, and of the Lord, having received the Word in much affliction, with joy of the Holy Ghost ..” (I Thessalonians 1:5-6)

There is so much to understand when it comes to the good news gospel of the Lord Jesus Christ. To begin, the salvation message is the greatest story ever told -- wherein the Lord God who created the world in the beginning loved His people enough to become as one of us -- so that He could bring us abundant life in Him.

That is, 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) The Word made flesh and dwelt among us so that we could behold His glory -- as the only begotten of the Father. Did you catch that? Jesus was the ONLY begotten of the Father -- the visible image of the invisible God -- and as the only begotten -- He delivered the one and only salvation plan, the plan that was decided before the world was formed.

God manifest in the flesh. (I Timothy 3:16) To wit, God was in Christ reconciling the world unto Himself. (II Corinthians 5:19)

His Name JESUS, for He shall save His people from their sins. The One and Only who willingly shed His precious blood so that you and I might have abundant life in Him. God our Saviour.

“ … 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.” (Titus 3:5)

Today is the day of salvation. Today is the day that Jesus -- both Lord and Christ -- is calling you into His fold. Take hold of His truth according to Acts 2:36-41 this day. 

Stand in the offering plate. 

Jesus -- First and Last; Alpha and Omega; Beginning and Ending; Everlasting Father -- The Almighty -- Part 2399

“But we speak the wisdom of God in a mystery, even the hidden wisdom, which God ordained before the world unto our glory:” (I Corinthians‬ ‭2:7‬)

Jesus said, “If ye had known Me, ye should have known My Father also: and from henceforth ye know Him, and have seen Him.” (John‬ ‭14:7‬) In the same conversation, Jesus saith unto Philip, "Have I been so long time with you, and yet hast thou not known Me, Philip? he that hath seen Me hath seen the Father; and how sayest thou then, Shew us the Father?” (John‬ ‭14:9‬)

In another place, Jesus said, “I and My Father are one.” (John‬ ‭10:30‬ )‬‬

In yet another place, Jesus said to those Jews which believed on Him, "If ye continue in My Word, [then] are ye My disciples indeed; and ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free." (John 8:31)

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." Jesus said unto them, "Verily, verily, I say unto you, Before Abraham was, I AM.” (John‬ ‭8:18-19) ‬ Later, Jesus said, ”I said therefore unto you, that ye shall die in your sins: for if ye believe not that I am He, ye shall die in your sins.” (John‬ ‭8:24‬ )‬

From the scriptures, we know that Jesus is God manifest in the flesh. (I Timothy 3:16) ”For in Him dwelleth all the fullness of the Godhead bodily.” (Colossians‬ ‭2:9‬)‬‬Indeed, the angel of the Lord, when he declared peace and good will to one and all, the angel also said, "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)‬‬

After Jesus rose from the dead, appearing to His disciples, Thomas answered and said unto Him, "my Lord and my God.” (John‬ ‭20:28‬)

Stephen also called upon God, as the scripture states, saying, "Lord Jesus, receive my spirit" (Acts 7:45, 59)

Again, “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)

In the end of the New Testament (within the book of Revelation, wherein we learn who Jesus really is) Jesus said, ”I AM Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the ending ... which is, and which was, and which is to come, the Almighty.” (Revelation‬ ‭1:8‬)

In Hebrews, we understand that Jesus is the brightness of [His] glory and the express image of His person. He is the image of the invisible God; God manifest in the flesh; God with us. Apostle Paul wrote, "To wit, God was in Christ reconciling the world unto Himself." (II Corinthians 5:17-19) He is our Lord and our God and as prophesied by Isaiah, "He is the everlasting Father." No other god beside Him because He -- the One and Only God -- is the Almighty!

His Name in this current dispensation of grace -- Jesus. The Name that is above every name. (Acts 4:12; Philippians 2:9) There is no other name under heaven given among men whereby we must be saved.

This same JESUS -- the Way, the Truth and the Life. No man comes unto the Father but by Him! (John 14:6-12) 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)

“Hereby perceive we the love of God, because he laid down his life for us: and we ought to lay down our lives for the brethren.” (I John‬ ‭3:16‬)

Meditate upon these scriptures for your learning and edification. 

Stand in the offering plate

Understanding the Spirit of the Holies; His Name JESUS, For He Alone Shall Save You From Your Sins - Part 2398

" ... but by every Word of God ..."

"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)

“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)

"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? And for this cause, He is the mediator of the new testament, that by means of death, for the redemption of the transgressions [that were] under the first testament, they which are called might receive the promise of eternal inheritance ... for where a testament [is], there must also of necessity be the death of the testator. For a testament [is] of force after men are dead: otherwise, it is of no strength at all while the testator lives. Whereupon neither the first [testament] was dedicated without blood. For when Moses had spoken every precept to all the people according to the law ..." (Hebrews 9:14-19; Acts 1:2-3, 8)

The true disciple of Jesus Christ will seek to understand the greatest love story ever told, and will not shrink back in the face of a modern day religious culture intent on deceiving the masses with their false trinity teaching. Still, how dare those who proclaim to understand the Word of the Lord delete any and all references to the "doctrine of Christ" in their rewritten books, and instead put forward a false man-made, religious teaching called the trinity, wherein God is reduced to three persons.

The first commandment declares God as One Lord. (Deuteronomy 6:4; Mark 12:29-31) The very beginning of our world, and His handiwork (even to this day) declares -- In the beginning, God. (Genesis 1:1) The Spirit of the Lord moved upon the face of the waters. (Genesis 1:2)

God is Spirit. God is holy. And the scriptures state God Himself became our Saviour. That He was in the world and the world was made by Him and yet the world knew Him not. That He came unto His own and His own received Him not? (I Timothy 3:16; John 1:10-11; Titus 3:4-7; Deuteronomy 6:4; Mark 12:29-31; Isaiah 9:6; Isaiah 42:13; Titus 3:4-7)

The Lord Himself came forth as a mighty man. (Isaiah 42:13) He is our Saviour and beside Him there is none else.

And yet, the obvious is being denied, and to support their false position, the scriptures who point to the falseness repeatedly omitted in the revised books they present as Bibles. Oh, how dark our world has become when those who profess to believe willingly remove the absolute knowledge of the gospel from the Word of the Lord in scripture! Woe to them that are responsible for willfully making people ignorant of His truth. The Word of God being corrupted by those who are void of all knowledge and understanding of godliness. (I Timothy 3:16)

It is no wonder Jesus went into the temple of God and cast out all them that sold and bought in the temple, and overthrew the tables of the money changers and the seats of them that sold doves, and said unto them, "It is written, My house shall be called the house of prayer, but ye have made it a den of thieves."

"And Jesus went into the temple of God, and cast out all them that sold and bought in the temple, and overthrew the tables of the moneychangers, and the seats of them that sold doves, and said unto them, It is written, My house shall be called the house of prayer; but ye have made it a den of thieves." (Matthew 21:12-13 KJV)

"And Jesus went into the Temple of God, and cast out all them that sold and bought in the Temple, and overthrew the tables of the moneychangers, and the seats of them that sold doves, and said to them, It is written, My house shall be called the house of prayer: but ye have made it a den of thieves." (Matthew 21:12-13 Geneva 1599)
In the newer rewritten versions of the scriptures, such as the NIV; New Living Translation; English Standard; Berean; New American Standard, New American Standard, and Weymouth, for example, note that the words "of God" in this particular scripture Matthew 21:12 is omitted and replaced by temple courts/temple complex, etc.

Why? Because Jesus, who was God manifest in the flesh, came into His own temple and said, "My house shall be called the house of prayer." Therein, at that time, it was the temple of God and as we know from the doctrine of Christ, the same God of the temple was standing therein.

Yes, God visited His people. (Luke 1:67-79) After His love and kindness, God became our Saviour. (Titus 3:4-7)

This is why the Holy Ghost always points to Jesus -- because He is the Lord of glory. Jesus -- He is the King of kings and Lord of lords, Alpha and Omega, the first and the last, the beginning and the ending. (Revelation 1:8, 11) His Name given to us as the ONLY NAME whereby we must be saved in this current dispensation of grace. (Acts 4:12; Philippians 2:9)

"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. For He hath made Him to be sin for us, who knew no sin; that we might be made the righteousness of God in Him." (II Corinthians 5:19-21)

"But now the righteousness of God without the law is manifested, being witnessed by the law and the prophets; even the righteousness of God which is by faith of Jesus Christ unto all and upon all them that believe: for there is no difference -- For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God; being justified freely by His grace through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus: whom God hath set forth to be a propitiation through faith in his blood, to declare His righteousness for the remission of sins that are past, through the forbearance of God; to declare, I say, at this time His righteousness: that he might be just, and the justifier of him which believes in Jesus." (Romans 3:21-26)

"To give knowledge of salvation unto His people by the remission of their sins, through the tender mercy of our God; whereby the day spring from on high hath visited us, to give light to them that sit in darkness and in the shadow of death, to guide our feet into the way of peace." (Luke 1:77-79)

Indeed, it is time to throw out the new rewritten versions that attempt to lead us astray from His truth, wherein entire scriptures are omitted from His Word without any justification. We need to become as the new disciples in the early church -- those that believed, came and confessed and shewed their deeds, many of them also which used curious arts brought their books together and burned them before all [men]; and they counted the price of them and found it fifty thousand [pieces] of silver -- so mightily grew the Word of God and prevailed." (Acts 19:18-20)

The curious arts of this day include any teaching that adds or takes away from the scriptures, which is why we are warned of wolves in sheep's clothing, who would preach "another" gospel than the gospel you have been taught, and heard, and understand.

All this so that it might be fulfilled which was spoken by Esaias [Isaiah] the prophet, saying, "Himself took our infirmities, and bare our sicknesses." (Matthew 8:17)

God Himself robed in sin prone flesh (and yet without sin) so that we could find redemption and sanctification through His perfect sacrifice on the cross. And to this day, He is still inviting us to come into His fold, and to the most elaborate wedding feast known to man. Heed His call today. Accept His invitation that is embraced in love and mercy. And yes ...

"Repent ye, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand." (Matthew 3:2; Acts 2:36-38)

Stand in the offering plate.

[* As an aside, we are now the temple of the Lord, and collectively together the body of Christ -- Jesus being the Head of the Church)

It Is No Secret What God Can Do, With Arms Wide Open, He'll Pardon You - Part 2397

At one point, the Apostles were criticized for not doing enough for the orphans and widows. Thus, some form of assistants were needed to help spread the gospel message to the world. So the apostles said, "Look you out seven men of honest report and filled with the Holy Ghost and wisdom." The reason for this is so that the apostles could appoint men of faith to attend to the daily ministration of those in need. Indeed, this was necessary for two reasons. First, the increasing number of people that had come to believe the gospel message made it more difficult to ensure that every believer was fully supported in their quest to serve Jesus, and second, the complications that continually emerged by ongoing persecution. (Acts 6 elaborates on the credentials required for these seven -- if you'd like to further understand the context of these scriptures).

The apostles praying laid their hands upon the people. Seven people were appointed, energized by the Holy Ghost in power. Philip was one of the seven chosen to serve by the multitude. Now appointed, as outlined in Acts chapter 8, Philip went to a city called Samaria and preached Christ to them. The people were receptive to the good news gospel message that Philip spoke. As well, hearing and seeing miracles, and the lame healed was just a starting point. Unclean spirits, crying with loud voices, fled the bodies of many that were possessed. Many more believed. In fact, there was great joy in the city. 

For the record, Philip was not practising medicine. Philip was not practicing some new age sorcery or wizardry either, Rather, Philip was preaching the empowering message of Jesus Christ to the masses. Why? Because Philip simply believed that God was capable of restoring people to good health. In so doing, he harnessed a childlike faith with Almighty God as His instructor.

Remember what the scriptures state. Throughout, Jesus advocated for believers to become like little children. Jesus taught that expressing childlike faith in God is akin to a non-wavering faith. But like children, our faith, even if our faith is only a mustard seed in size, is capable of catching God's attention. What was the scriptures said? That God, in response to our faith, is capable of moving mountains. "Only believe," Jesus said, because without faith, it is impossible to please God our Saviour.

Even more so, it is our faith that is so critically important. Believe that all things are possible. If you have faith as a grain of mustard, all things are possible. You see, Jesus came to seek and to save that which was lost. Jesus came to redeem man out of the house of satan’s bondage. In other words, Jesus overcame captivity. As a captive, Jesus assumed sinful man's place at Calvary. He wants to cover your sins with the blood He shed too.

This is why it shouldn't be a secret as to what God can do. The words of an old gospel hymn come to mind, "What He has done for others, He’ll do for you ... With arms wide open, He’ll pardon you ... It is no secret what God can do."

Just like Philip, who just preached those everyday truths that pertain to the Kingdom of God, Jesus wants you to do the same. In the precious, holy Name of Jesus the Christ, the residents of Samaria responded when Philip suggested that the seed of expressed faith arising in their hearts, needed to be watered. Using the same analogy -- that all seeds need water,  they were all baptized into the empowering Name of Jesus. The Name that is above every other name in heaven and on earth. The important note here is that there was no hesitation on the part of the people. These people believed the message and straightway, went down into the water to be baptized -- in His Name -- the Only Name given in this current dispensation of grace -- the Name of the JESUS. The same day, straight away, and by so doing, they stepped into a new dimension of life redeemed by Christ.

They stepped into a realm where they now understood that God Himself as a Son had fulfilled a plan for their salvation. Over time, the news that Philip had preached Jesus (blood, water and spirit) to the Samaritans reached the ears of the Apostles who were at Jerusalem. The apostles sent Peter and John to Samaria. Upon their arrival, they prayed for the believers that they might receive God’s holy Spirit -- the Holy Ghost, the Comforter who leads and guides into all truth. For as yet, the Holy Ghost had not yet descended upon them. They had not yet received God promise as all believers would.

But they had taken the first steps to a personal relationship with their God and Saviour. The Samarians had repented (responded to the call of the Lord Jesus in their hearts) but had not yet been water baptized into the Name of Jesus. They were redeemed and although they had great joy were effervescent, clothed in the righteousness of Jesus, the scriptures noted that as of yet, the Samarians had not yet received the breath of Jesus breathing into them His holy Spirit.

Why is this so important? Why is the message in the scriptures written this way? Well, these things are written that we might believe and that we all should be of one accord, continuing steadfastly in the teachings of the holy Spirit of Jesus, as delivered to believers through the mouths of the apostles. These are the principles of the doctrine of Christ. (II John 1:9; Hebrews 6:1-2) This includes being water baptized in the precious, holy Name of the Lord Jesus as an answer of a good conscience toward God -- our minds renewed, our hearts settled to the call of the Lord once and for all.

There are many other scriptural references that validate the teachings herein. Thus, Philip's experience with the Samarians is not isolated. The scriptures detail other examples of repentance and remission of sins being preached in Jesus Name. Acts chapter 2, Acts chapter10 and Acts chapter 19 are prime examples.

Peace to all those who are of God's household. Have faith in Jesus -- as both Lord and Christ, and dwell in His promises wherein He is forever faithful to those who worship Him.

Stand in the offering plate.

Never Alone, For The Lord Jesus Walks With Us - Part 2396

One Lord, One Faith, One Baptism. One God and Father of all, who is above all and through all and in you all. (Ephesians 4:5-6)

God Himself came forth as a mighty man (Isaiah 9:6; Isaiah 42:13)

For in Him dwells all the fullness of the Godhead bodily, and ye are complete in Him which is the Head of all principality and power ... (Colossians 2:9-10)

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

God manifest in the flesh. (I Timothy 3:16; Matthew 1:21-23; Mark 12:29-31; John 10:30; John 14:6-10)

The One and Only loved us enough to clothe Himself in flesh and shed His own precious blood on the cross for you and I. Now it's our turn to stand in the offering plate -- loving the Lord God our Saviour Jesus the Christ with all our hearts, souls, minds, and strength, and flowing through His love to one another.

Be richly blessed this day, and in the days to come, knowing that you are never alone! Praise be to risen Jesus -- King of kings and Lord of lords, Alpha and Omega, the first and the last, the beginning and the ending. Glory to His Name.

Through The Grace Of Our Lord Jesus The Christ - Part 2395

We believe that through the grace of our Lord Jesus the Christ we shall be saved. From Acts chapter 15 in the Bible, we discover that some believers in the primitive assembly thought it necessary for the believing non Jews to be circumcised. It was similarly dictated that they must adhere to the Law. Well, taking that position caused an extensive inquiry. 

Remember, it was Peter that God had chosen to initially deliver the good news of the gospel to the non Jews. Peter said at that initial moment that it was God who knows the heart. It is God who becomes acquainted with a believer and understands people's  innermost thoughts. Certainly, it was God who by the outpouring and inputting of His own Spirit upon the non Jews, welcomed the non-Jewish into the flock. It was He who had previously breathed His Spirit upon us Jews. God, in so doing, declared that He was placing no difference between the non Jews and the Jews. There would be no distinctions. He did not discriminate.

Indeed, God purified and cleansed the non Jews heart’s by faith. So why call God's love and motives into question now? Why strain the patience of God? In fact, why are so many endeavouring to put a burden on the shoulders of non Jewish believers, a burden that neither we nor our forefathers did.

As we read further, we see that James added his position to the discussion. James relayed how it pleased God at the first to visit the non Jews. It became obvious that God was choosing a people dedicated to His name. To this the afore-predicted language, the prophets agree. As it is written in the scriptures, "There will be a time when I shall return [to earth where] I will build again the tabernacle of David which is fallen down and now is in ruins."  

In other words, God was saying, "I will raise my tabernacle afresh so that the residue of believing men and women from all nations who belong to me, may now earnestly seek after me." God from the beginning of time, and well into eternity, knows what He is doing. He has our lives planned out even before the foundations of the world were created. So how then, does religion's judgement and subsequent decisions that include imposing irksome restrictions on non Jews become valid. Remember, these were non-Jews who were turning by faith to the Lord Jesus.

So Peter and James confirmed that God's plan of salvation wasn't about dictates. Rather, there were four things that the non-Jews should do. First, to abstain from the pollution of idolatry. As well, abstain from fornication and sexual vices. And lastly, that they should keep themselves from eating the flesh of strangled animals. Indeed, from blood in any form, including processed or blood soaked meat. The reason? Life is in the blood. Life is in the shedding of blood.

Subsequently, the apostles and elders, in unison with all the believers decided to write on paper their decision. If you are reading along in the scriptures, you will find the references in Acts chapter 15, verses 23-28. Here comes the good news. For it seemed good to the Holy Spirit and to us to lay upon you no greater burden than these necessary requirements. That is, encouraging believers to remain steadfast in the Lord. For the non Jews, the letter was critical. When they received this good news, they rejoiced. They had been encouraged by its contents. You can almost hear them saying, "yes, I will remain steadfast in the Lord."

Fast forward to the 21st century. God is still adding believers to His church daily. He is creating a nation of believers and building a temple of living stones for His own habitation. This is a temple not made with hands. Nor is this temple constructed of brick or mortar, wood, hay, or stubble. In this temple, Christ is the corner stone. The apostles and the prophets are the foundation. There is no other building. The Word is the foundation.

For God has said, "What house are you going to build me when Heaven is my throne and the earth is my footstool. As born again believers, we are the building chosen of God to be His habitation. His spiritual habitation.  The house in which He is so very pleased to dwell. We are the body of Christ. This building is the measure of the stature of the body of Christ. If you are looking for an analogy, how about God’s measuring tape?  

God redeemed the people, and ensured their rebirth and salvation through His blood. Our sins were washed away by baptism as we called upon the name of the Lord. Yes, we are baptised into His temple by the same Spirit that dwelt within the man Christ Jesus. And now we are that body -- the body of Christ -- in which He is so pleased to dwell. 

May God who now rules and reigns within your believing heart bless you. 

Stand in the offering plate. 

He Was In The World And the World Was Made By Him And The Word Knew Him Not - Part 2394

"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)

As the early believing body of Christ church grew in popularity, the religious and political systems of the day looked for a way to change the scriptural norms which defined Christianity. In fact, the worldly powers sought to recast the apostolic doctrine into a form of philosophy, and to some degree they were successful in deceiving the casual church goer.

For example, the teaching that God is three-headed, or that God is triune, a triad and what the modern day religious culture propagates as the trinity. In this context, it is critical to understand that there is no trinity within the scriptures. Only One God and He willingly became our Saviour. 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; Isaiah 7:14; Isaiah 9:6; I Timothy 3:16; Titus 3:4-7; Revelation 1:8)

Thus, to argue against the trinity teaching would be like arguing against a straw man -- which would have no benefit here. So let's look at how we got to this point from an historical perspective.

First, we should understand that the trinity (God in three persons) is Antinomian. It is contrary to the first commandment, wherein the scripture saith, "Hear O Israel the Lord thy God is One!" (Deuteronomy 6:4; Mark 12:29-31; Galatians 3:20; Hebrews 1:3) We also know that the trinity is Turtullian's adaptation of Plato's Timaeus. These philosophical thoughts were originally carried into Rome by Pythagoras in the 6th century BC, from the philosophy school of pagan Alexandria.

Turtullian, a student of Platonic Philosophy while in Rome, applied a philosophical rule to Christianity, which mandates that Logos (a Greek philosophy term) must be separate from the original God in Christ doctrine that the scriptures teach.

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

Further, the theory that God is multiple and not One and Only who is Lord of all is nothing short of polytheism. And if I may add -- blasphemy. Because nowhere in the scriptures is God described as three persons. Neither does the scriptures describe God as a co-existent, co-eternal multiple headed God. In the New Testament, there are no trinitarian statements or speculations concerning a three-headed Godhead.

"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)

Therefore, the trinity- triune G/god(s) teaching emerges from ancient Egyptian and Babylonian traditions of men, and has not foundation in the scriptures. So, when the worldly systems that opposed the apostolic doctrine -- as preached on the day of Pentecost in Acts 2 -- these had to find a solution to stop the believing body of Christ church from growing. As we know, they had already tried persecuting believers and that was not working. Thus, instead, they decided to recast the Christian church doctrines and beliefs in a manner that would create confusion.

What did these do? These changed Jesus instruction and example -- to be water baptized -- to be specific to infants which translated into sprinkling instead of full immersion -- wherein we are buried with Christ and when we come up from the water resurrected with Christ -- or as we say here, becoming "clothed" in His righteousness. Repentance was changed to penance, wherein one's sins are confessed to another man instead of the Lord of Glory.

The wording of the great commission (as the religious institutions call it) in Matthew 28:19 was changed to titles -- instead of the precious, holy Name of the Lord Jesus. Thankfully, we have two other accounts of this same commission wherein the wording was not changed from the Name of Jesus to the titles - Father, Son, Holy Ghost.

As well, the Acts 2:36-41 salvation message was watered down to individuals joining a religious organization. The greatest love story ever told was diluted to One God to three distinct persons. With the apostles' doctrine (Acts 2:42) changed, the triune G/god teaching was able to take root. This has led to the majority of believers today not even knowing in whom they serve.

Again, the word Trinity never appears in the New Testament, nor did Jesus and His followers intend to contradict the Shema in the Hebrew Scriptures -- the first commandment wherein we are instructed to “Hear, O Israel: The Lord our God is one Lord.” (Deuteronomy 6:4)

Beyond the witness of the apostles, and the Word, there are historical references that point to the emergence of a false teaching within the church. These are listed below for your learning and edification.

"The doctrine of the trinity, as a statement of what God is, in Himself, CANNOT be justified on the basis of scripture." (Encyclopedia Britannica)

Dr. M. Burrows, professor Yale Divinity School wrote: "...the trinity was a major preoccupation of Egyptian theologies... three gods are combined and treated as a single being addressed as singular. In this way the spiritual force of Egyptian religion shows a direct link with Christian theology." (Morenz, S. Egyptian Religion. Cornell: University Press; 1973:254-257)

From the History of Christianity:

"It may be doubted whether Plato himself impersonated the Logos, the reason of the Deity; with him it was rather an attribute of the Godhead... Platonism had gradually absorbed all the more intellectual class... (Plato’s philosophy) was attempting to renew Paganism, and was the recognized and leading tenet in the higher Mysteries." (D. Milman. History of Christianity, Vol.2 p355)

From An Ecclesiastical History:

"This Platonic philosophy was adopted by such of the learned at Alexandria, who wished to be accounted Christians, and yet to retain the name, the garb, and the rank of philosophers. In particular, all those who in this second century presided in the schools of the Christians at Alexandria, Athenagoras, Pantaenus and Celmens Alexandria, are said to have approved of it. These men were persuaded that true philosophy, the great and most salutary gift of God, lay in scattered fragments among all the sects of philosophers: therefore it was the duty of every wise man, and especially of a Christian teacher, to collect those fragments from all quarters, and to use them in defense of religion." (J. Mosheim. An ecclesiastical history. Charlestown; 1694-1755 :1:152)

From the History of Christianity:

"If Paganism was conquered by Christianity, it is equally true that Christianity was corrupted by Paganism. The pure Deism of the first century Christians ... was changed by the Church of Rome, into the incomprehensible dogma of the Trinity. Many of the pagan tenets, invented by the Egyptians and idealized by Plato, were retained as being worthy of belief." (E. Gibbon. History of Christianity. Republished by Arno Press; 1972)

Other references:

"The Trinity is a corruption borrowed from the heathen religions, and engrafted on the Christian faith." (A Dictionary of Religious Knowledge. Lyman Abbott; 1875. section on ‘Trinity’ pg. 944)

“The term trinity is not itself found in the Bible. It was first used by Tertullian at the close of the 2nd century, but received wide currency [common use in intellectual discussion] and formal elucidation [clarification] only in the 4th and 5th centuries.” (New Bible Dictionary)

"No theologian in the first three Christian centuries was a trinitarian in the sense of a believing that the one God is tripersonal, containing equally divine “persons”, Father, Son, and Holy Spirit." (Encyclopedia Brittanica)

"That God is One, absolutely One-One in Essence and in Person-is the corner-stone of true theology"...."we hope to be able to set forth sufficient evidence to warrant the conclusion, that the doctrine to which we refer [the Trinity] may fairly be classed among the corruptions of Christianity, as one of the numerous departures from "the simplicity that is in Christ." (Stanford University Encyclopedia of Philosophy)

From The Origin of the Doctrine of the Trinity in the Christian Church", 1883, Morning Light Journal, Oxford University -- "To Jesus and Paul the Doctrine of the Trinity was apparently never known. They say nothing about it. "

E. Washburn Hopkins, Professor, Yale University writes: "It is IMPOSSIBLE to document what we now call Orthodoxy [The Trinity] in the first two centuries of Christianity"

Dr. Harold Brown, Trinitarian Professor, Reformed Theological Seminary in "Heresy and Orthodoxy in the History of the Church" writes: "The Modalists were the successors to the Apostles, NOT the Trinitarians. The Trinitarians expropriated the term "Catholic" (Universal) from the writings of Ignatius. When they increased in power and numbers they branded the Modalists, who preached one God, as Heretics and styled their group as Catholic."

Dr. Friedrich Loofs, Trinitarian Historian, Professor at the University of Halle in "The History of the Primitive Church" writes: "It must also be conceded by Trinitarians that the Doctrine of the Trinity, as now believed in, DID NOT find general acknowledgment until the 4th Century...."

In conclusion, the Trinity is NOT demonstrable by either logic or by scriptural proofs; the Trinity is NOT a Biblical doctrine.; the Trinitarian dogma is in the last analysis, a late 4th century invention; the doctrine (trinity) developed gradually over several centuries and through many controversies. It was never taught before the second/third century and most certainly not apostolic.

However, the biggest issue with the false trinity teaching is that it takes away from the good news gospel message, wherein the One True God of the Old Testament willingly took upon Himself the form of man -- as a Son -- so that we might have abundant life in Him. Yes, the God of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob, in the One eternal, ever-living God: infinite in power, holy in nature, attributes and purpose; and possessing absolute, indivisible deity.

This one true God has revealed Himself as Father in creation; through the only begotten Son redemption; and as the Holy Ghost by emanation. (I Corinthians 8:6; Ephesians 4:6; II Corinthians 5:19; Joel 2:28)

The Scripture goes further than simply attempting to prove the existence of God; it asserts, assumes and declares that the knowledge of God is universal (Romans 1:19, 21, 28, 32; 2:15). God is omnipresent, omnipotent and omniscient as well as invisible, incorporeal, without parts, without body, and therefore free from all limitations. He is Spirit (John 4:24), and “a spirit hath not flesh and bones” (Luke 24:39)

“One God and Father of all, who is above all, and through all, and in you all” (Ephesians 4:6).

In the book of Hebrews, we understand that before the incarnation, this one true God manifested Himself in diverse ways, including appearing in the tent to Abraham. But in this current dispensation of grace, He manifest Himself as a Son, who walked among men. He was in the same world that He created.

“In Him [Jesus] dwells all the fullness of the Godhead bodily” (Colossians 2:9)

“For it pleased the Father that in Him should all fullness dwell” (Colossians 1:19)

Jesus -- both human and divine. in His humanity, He was man; in His deity, He was and is God. His flesh was the lamb, or the sacrifice of God. He is the only mediator between God and man. “For there is one God, and one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus” (I Timothy 2:5)

The Lord pitched the tent. Jesus said, "he that hath seen Me hath seen the Father" (John 14:9) Jesus said, "I and My Father are one." (John 10:30) Jesus said, If you know Me, you know My Father as well. From now on, you know Him and have seen Him." (John 14:7) Jesus said, "And he that sees Me sees Him that sent Me." (John 12:45) "Then said they unto Him [Jesus], "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." (John 8:19, 27)

Jesus said, “I am Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the ending," saith the Lord, "which is, and which was, and which is to come, the Almighty” (Revelation 1:8)

Search the scriptures for yourself and know that not all that comes from the church pulpits is truth.

Stand in the offering plate.

Being Filled With the Fruits Of Righteousness, Which Are By Jesus Christ - Part 2393

“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)

Indeed, the living God, the pillar and ground of the truth (according to the verse before) was manifest (made visible; revealed; made known; displayed; shown; made evident) in the flesh; justified in the Spirit; seen of angels; God was believed on in the world; and God was received up into glory. How and when did all of this happen? In Jesus Christ.

In another place, “In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God . . . 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 1:1, 14; Galatians 4:4) The same Word that was with God was God. "He was in the world and the world was made by Him and the world knew Him not. He came unto His own and His own received Him not." (John 1:10-11)

Not another G/god or a second or third entity in a collective, multi-headed godhead (as some in the modern day religious community would have us believe) but the One and Only Living God robed in flesh -- so that we might receive His free gift of salvation. The Word which is Almighty God was tabernacled in flesh.

The question again -- when did this happen? In Jesus Christ.

"To wit, God was in Christ reconciling the world unto Himself." (II Corinthians 5:19) After the kindness and love of God our Saviour toward man appeared. (Titus 3:4-7) “No man hath seen God at any time; the only begotten Son, which is in the bosom of the Father, He hath declared [spoken, revealed] Him.” (John 1:18) “The image of the invisible God.” (Colossians 1:15; II Corinthians 4:4)

A third time -- when did this happen? In Jesus Christ.

The fullness of the Godhead dwelling bodily in Him. (Colossians 2:9) This same God who created the world in the beginning, and everything within was veiled in flesh? (Hebrews 10:20) But how can this be, given that God is Spirit, and without flesh and blood that would be visible to man? The answer? In Jesus Christ.

As the scripture saith, salvation in the New Testament had to be patterned after the old, but not as an add-on to the law, but rather, the Lord doing an entirely new thing. The dayspring from on high visiting His people. The promised Christ appearing to His beloved -- so that we might find life through Him. 

Thus, In order to make Himself visible to man and in order to shed innocent blood for our sins, He had to robe Himself in sin-prone flesh -- yet He was always without sin. (Hebrews 9:1-8, 14-18)

Yes. the God of the Old Testament robed Himself in flesh. He is the Father; the Great I AM who as the Good Shepherd, laid down His life for His sheep. Moreover, “God, who at sundry times and in diverse manners spake in time past unto the fathers by the prophets, hath in these last days spoken unto us by [His] Son whom He hath appointed heir of all things, by whom also He made the worlds. . ... the brightness of [His] glory, and the express image of His person.” (Hebrews 1:1-3)

As Abraham prophesied --- “God will provide Himself a lamb” (Genesis 22:8). God indeed provided a body for Himself: “Sacrifice and offering thou wouldest not, but a body hast Thou prepared Me.” (Hebrews 10:5) So the Lord could come forth as a mighty man. (Isaiah 42:13; Isaiah 9:6; Isaiah 7:14)

Emmanuel, being interpreted, God with us. (Isaiah 7:14; Matthew 1:21-23) 

Therefore, at the end of the day, this same Jesus whom ye have crucified is both Lord and Christ. (Acts 2:36) He is the Way, the Truth, and the Life. He is the Bread of Life. The same Rich that was Christ who followed the Israelites through the Red Sea. (I Corinthians 10:1-4)

It's no wonder when S/Paul asked the risen Jesus (when he was blinded on the road to Damascus) -- "Who art Thou?" Jesus said, "I am Jesus whom thou persecute." Because Jesus was the builder of the house while likewise a Son over His own house. (Hebrews 3:3-6)

Both Lord and Christ. Stand in the offering plate.

Blessed The Lord God From Everlasting To Everlasting; Amen and Amen; Amen and Alleluia; Praise Ye The Lord - Part 2392

"And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil: For Thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, for ever. Amen." (Matthew 6:33)

Have you ever wondered about the expression -- "Amen and Amen" -- in the scriptures? The term Amen serves as a confirmation - as in so be it, or it is so. The word is oft used at the end of our prayers. In terms of scripture, we know that the Lord God does not change -- Jesus Christ, the same yesterday, today and forever. (Hebrews 13:8) Moreover, His love, promises and faithfulness unwavering and sure for those who love Him with all their heart, soul, mind, and strength. As a consequence, our believing heart response to the Lord's continued faithfulness should be yea and amen -- in all things!

As believers, our testimony to others should rest in the fact that “every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and comes down from the Father of lights, with whom is no variableness, neither shadow of turning.” (James‬ ‭1:17‬) ‭

From Hebrews: "Wherein God, willing more abundantly to shew unto the heirs of promise the immutability of His counsel, confirmed [it] by an oath: that by two immutable things, in which [it was] impossible for God to lie, we might have a strong consolation, who have fled for refuge to lay hold upon the hope set before us: which [hope] we have as an anchor of the soul, both sure and steadfast, and which enters into that within the veil; whither the forerunner is for us entered, [even] Jesus, made an high priest for ever after the order of Melchisedec." (Hebrews 6:17-20)

Again, He never fails. His promises unchanging, unwavering, and unmovable, even in the face of changing societies. Why? Because the Lord God our Saviour Jesus the Christ has always brought to fruition what He says He will do -- every time ... "according as His divine power hath given unto us all things that [pertain] unto life and godliness, through the knowledge of Him that hath called us to glory and virtue: whereby are given unto us exceeding great and precious promises: that by these ye might be partakers of the divine nature, having escaped the corruption that is in the world through lust." (II Peter 1:3-4) But I digress somewhat. Continuing on the topic of amen, let's consider other contexts wherein this word is used.

"For of Him, and through Him, and to Him, are all things: to whom [be] glory for ever. Amen." (Romans 11:36)

"For all the promises of God in Him are yea, and in Him Amen, unto the glory of God by us." (II Corinthians 1:20)

Just before Jesus ascends, He says to those apostles whom He had chosen -- "... teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I AM with you alway, [even] unto the end of the world. Amen." (Matthew 28:20)

What was the result? "And they went forth, and preached every where, the Lord working with them, and confirming the word with signs following. Amen." (Mark 16:20) "And they worshipped Him, and returned to Jerusalem with great joy: and were continually in the temple, praising and blessing God. Amen." (Luke 24:52-53)

Knowing that "the Lord shall deliver [me/us] from every evil work, and will preserve [me] unto His heavenly kingdom: to whom [be] glory for ever and ever. Amen." (II Timothy 4:18) And that He will "make you perfect in every good work to do His will, working in you that which is well-pleasing in His sight, through Jesus Christ; to whom [be] glory for ever and ever. Amen." (Hebrews 13:21)

Further, "if any man speak, [let him] speak as the oracles of God; if any man minister, [let him do it] as of the ability which God gives: that God in all things may be glorified through Jesus Christ, to whom be praise and dominion for ever and ever. Amen." (I Peter 4:11)

And for the day to day, we are instructed to "grow in grace, and [in] the knowledge of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. To Him be glory both now and for ever. Amen." (II Peter 3:18)

"Blessed be the Lord God of Israel for ever and ever." And all the people said, "Amen" and praised the Lord." (I Chronicles 16:26)

"Blessed [be] the Lord God of Israel from everlasting, and to everlasting. Amen, and Amen." (Psalm 41:13)

"And blessed [be] His glorious Name for ever: and let the whole earth be filled [with] His glory; Amen, and Amen." (Psalm 72:19)

"Blessed be the Lord for evermore. Amen, and Amen." (Psalm 89:52)

"Blessed be the Lord God of Israel from everlasting to everlasting: and let all the people say, "Amen. Praise ye the Lord." (Psalm 106:48)

"And there are also many other things which Jesus did, the which, if they should be written every one, I suppose that even the world itself could not contain the books that should be written. Amen." (John 21:25)

Therefore, "to God only wise, be glory through Jesus Christ for ever. Amen." (Romans 16:27) "... to whom [be] glory for ever and ever. Amen." (Galatians 1:5) "... who only hath immortality, dwelling in the light which no man can approach unto; whom no man hath seen, nor can see: to whom [be] honour and power everlasting. Amen." (I Timothy 6:16)

Therefore, "Now unto the King eternal, immortal, invisible, the only wise God, [be] honour and glory for ever and ever. Amen." (I Timothy 1:17)

Therefore, "to the only wise God our Saviour, be glory and majesty, dominion and power, both now and ever. Amen." (Jude 1:25)

Therefore, "to Him be glory and dominion for ever and ever. Amen." (I Peter 5:11)

Therefore, "amen: blessing, and glory, and wisdom, and thanksgiving, and honour, and power, and might, [be] unto our God for ever and ever. Amen." (Revelation 7:12)

Therefore, "the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ [be] with you. Amen." (Romans 16:20) Grace be with you, Amen! (Colossians 4:18)

Stand in the offering plate.

The Lord Nourishes And Cherishes The Church, For We Are Members Of His Body, His Flesh- Part 2391

"Giving thanks always for all things unto God and the Father in the Name of our Lord Jesus Christ ..." (Ephesians 5:20)

Sadly, there are too many within religious circles who oppose scriptural  baptisms. No doubt you may encounter some of these folks as you proceed forward in your faith journey, and in your own born again experience. Still, it is helpful to be aware of these alternative perspectives so that you can respond accordingly.

A verse that is often cited by those who oppose the foundational teachings of the Spirit of God is Ephesians 5:26. This scripture states that Christ loved the church, and gave Himself for it so that He might sanctify and cleanse it with the washing of water by the Word, that He might present to Himself a glorious church, not having spot or wrinkle but that the church should be holy and without blemish. In context:

"That He might sanctify and cleanse it with the washing of water by the Word, that He might present it to Himself a glorious church, not having spot, or wrinkle, or any such thing; but that it should be holy and without blemish. So ought men to love their wives as their own bodies; he that loves his wife loves himself. For no man ever yet hated his own flesh; but nourishes and cherishes it, even as the Lord the church: for we are members of His body, of His flesh, and of His bones. For this cause shall a man leave his father and mother, and shall be joined unto his wife, and they two shall be one flesh. This is a great mystery: but I speak concerning Christ and the church. Nevertheless let every one of you in particular so love his wife even as himself; and the wife see that she reverence her husband."

Reading on ... that He might present to Himself a glorious church, not having spot or wrinkle, or any such thing; but that it should be holy and without blemish, for no man ever hated his own flesh but nourishes and cherishes it, even as the Lord nourishes and cherishes the church for we are members of His body, of His flesh, and of His bones.

It is the scriptural reference - that He might sanctify and cleanse it with the washing of water by the Word - that opponents use as evidence against baptism. The washing of water by the Word - at least in the opponents' mind - offers sufficient reason for laying aside the importance and validity of both water baptism and Holy Spirit baptism. The question is this. How far will some go to oppose the Holy Ghost teachings as outlined in the scriptures?

What should be happening is that rather than trying to eliminate or erase important scriptural teachings, including those of baptism, we should recognize that the scriptures are establishing Christian teachings for a reason. For it is the application of the Word that accomplishes the washing of water by the Word and subsequently, sanctifies and cleanses us.

Therefore, if the Word does indeed sanctify and cleanse us, what hinders these opposers of the Word from repenting and being baptized into the name of JESUS? Is it not in the performance of the Word that results in the removal of spots and wrinkles from our sinful record? We are His flesh, His bones, His body and if indeed we are redeemed and born again believing persons, then we ought to become subject to the mind of His Spirit.

The scriptures state it this way - My sheep hear My voice!

The same instructions apply to John 15:3 wherein Jesus states, "Now you are clean through the Word that I have spoken to you." We need to remember that which is written after Jesus ascended up into the heaven emanates from the very same JESUS who gave commandments unto His apostles through the Holy Ghost. (Acts 1:1-4)

Similarly, it was (and is) the same JESUS -- through His own Spirit who spoke through the Apostles' mouths. The same teachings that were delivered in Acts 2 when men, women, boys and girls were instructed to repent and be baptized into the name of JESUS for the REMISSION of SIN so that they, in so doing would receive the PROMISED GIFT of HIS HOLY SPIRIT!

Therein, the three thousand plus asked the critical question. That is, "What must we do to be saved?" Peter (standing with the eleven) said, "Repent and be baptized every one of you in the Name of the Lord Jesus Christ for the remission of sin and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost." (Acts 2:37-42)

Let he or she that has an ear to hear, let them hear what the Spirit of JESUS has to say. And further, peace to all those who obediently submitted to the wholesome w/Word of JESUS. The same Jesus who is the WORD OF GOD - whose WORD was in the beginning with God, and is now being proclaimed to all nations throughout this world.

The scriptures offer us guidance and direction in our Christian walk. Where can we go Lord? The disciples had this right. There is nowhere that we can go because Lord, you alone have the words of eternal life!

This same Lord that was crucified on the cross has been declared both Lord and Christ. (Acts 2:36)

Stand in the offering plate.