Labour Diligently and Patiently, Seeking To Do Good, Promoting the Salvation of Souls, Resembling Jesus the Christ - Part 2789

"In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you." (I Thessalonians 5:18)

"Do all things without murmurings and disputings." (Philippians 2:14)

Continuing with the study of Jesus' teaching to both the Pharisees and His disciples (from Matthew 20), we begin to understand how God's salvation plan was woven into place from the very beginning - even before the foundation of the world was formed. In part, we witness how the plight of Israel was negatively impacted by their ongoing willingness to serve the world rather than the God of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob. More specifically, from Jesus' parable, we learn that when the first labourers agreed to work in the vineyard for the very same wage as those labourers hired later, they should have been grateful -- because they received the amount of wages they originally agreed to. 

However, as we see from the grumbling, their complaint wasn't that some labourers didn't have to work as many hours as the first hired did. Rather, their complaint was against the unexpected (unwarranted) generosity of the householder who decided on his own to give everyone the same reward. Remember, all the men worked and agreed to be paid "whatsoever is right" -- that shall ye receive. (Matthew 20:4, 7) But as we also know, the householder bestowed an additional gift (grace beyond measure!) on those labourers hired at day's end. That is, all the labourers received the same reward.

So instead of appreciating the generosity of the the householder, the labourers hired earlier in the day chose to find fault with their Master -- not because their wage was unfair, or that they had been dwindled out of pay -- but rather that other labourers hired later were made equal with them. In response, Jesus clearly points out the good man can do as He pleases with His own possessions. The good man -- in this current dispensation of grace the Lord Jesus -- desiring always to cure our blind eyes so we can receive spiritual sight that will draw our hearts after Him. And consequently, as a result of His invitation to labour in His vineyard, growing in grace and in the knowledge of our Lord and Saviour Jesus the Christ. (Matthew 20:29) 

But then Jesus asks, "Is thine eye evil because I am good?" 

Interesting question. As background, we know the owner of the vineyard - the Lord of glory!- is the central character within the parable. Why is this important? Because the householder not only went out early in the morning to hire labourers for the vineyard but He continued in His work all the day long -- the third hour, the sixth hour, the ninth hour, and well into the eleventh hour. Equally important is His over the top generosity (as the good man of the vineyard), which, ironically, is the catalyst that gets Him into trouble. Indeed, the Lord has always delighted in blessing His people, even though He, as the sovereign Lord doesn't have to ever give account of His actions to His creation.

On a different note, remember that up until this point, the labourers were "idly" just wasting away their days. As represented in the parable, the labourers did not engage in work which was meaningful, which explains why they were available to work in the vineyard.

There is yet another point worthy of consideration. Jesus says in Matthew 19:30 -- "But many [that are] first shall be last, and the last [shall be] first." Later, Jesus clarifies His statement further saying,  "So the last shall be first, and the first last, for many be called but few are chosen." (Matthew 20:16)

Did Jesus change His mind between His initial conversation with the Pharisees and His disciples, and subsequently sharing the parable? Most certainly, in the parable, all the labourers hired were treated equally. As we also know, the householder gave whatsoever is right to each labourer, albeit, those labourers hired later in the day were not required to work as many hours for the same pay.  

So then the question begs -- why did Jesus share this parable? What was His purpose?

Well, we know Jesus was speaking to His disciples, and by extension, the body of Christ church. This is evidenced in Jesus' response to Peter when the latter asks,  "Behold, we have forsaken all; and followed Thee: what shall we have therefore?" (Matthew 19:27)  As we know from this example, Jesus promises His disciples twelve thrones -- giving each and every one of them special honour. (Matthew 19:27-28)

But what is the meaning of the first last and the last first? 

As stated before, the first could refer to the Israelites who were invited into the Lord's vineyard from the beginning of creation. The last are the Gentiles that upon hearing and responding to the good news gospel of the Lord Jesus Christ also receive His gift of salvation and blessings. Conversely, on a more personal level, it could refer to those who begin their faith journey with little but through a spritual circumcision of their heart become very useful within the Kingdom. 

Another perspective is the timing of your acceptance of the Lord Jesus into your life (earlier or later in life) is not as important as what you actually do with His love, grace and mercy.  Or simply, that until we come to the Lord Jesus with humble heart, we waste our days in a sinful state -- serving satan in mindless and scattered idleness. 

The reality is that real life begins with Jesus as both our Lord God and Saviour in our life. And in the parable, He continues to call each and every one of us to labour in His Kingdom. 

It is interesting to note however, that even at the eleventh hour, no one had offered to hire these labourers before. Could this be those people in the hedges -- spoken of in Revelation - when those in the highways and byways find themselves far too busy to attend the Lord's most elaborate banquet? Note that these labourers mention that the reason they are not working is because no man hath offered to hire them. In essence then, no one had (yet) invited them to partake in the Lord's vineyard. 

Or perhaps, there is value in looking at Jesus' parable from the perspective of the religious (nominal Christians and proud Pharisees) who have repeatedly heard the Lord's invitation but have instead justified within their own hearts why they labour continually for earthly kingdoms. Put another way, in some minds, the penny received for labouring in the world outweighs the same penny received for labouring for the Lord's kingdom -- and sadly, this mindset even when, as evidenced by Jesus' parable, His rewards are so much more than any of us deserve.

Note what happens at the end of the parable. When evening is come, the Lord of the vineyard asks His steward to call all the labourers so that He could give them their hire, beginning from the last unto the first. (Matthew 20:8) Note that the Lord recompenses every service done for Him (even those who only contributed to the Kingdom for a short time), doing wrongly by none of them, whilst still showing extraordinary grace to all those who laboured in His vineyard. 

But rather than being content that the Lord has brought even more labourers (souls) into His fold, essentially making their individual job as labourers easier, and rewarding one and all with \whatsoever is right', there is a tendency (as we see herein) to become envious and proud, exalting ourselves to a much higher status than we deserve. Indeed, as we learn, they supposed that they should have received more! 

"And when they had received it, they murmured against the good man of the house, saying, "These last have wrought but one hour, and Thou hast made them equal unto us, which have borne the burden and heat of the day." (Matthew 20:11-12) 

The labourers who grumbled about having to work longer hours for the same pay did not choose to rejoice and praise God for His endless mercies and abundant grace -- which He applies equally to everyone who comes to Him, which as we know, there is no respecter of persons within the body of Christ church. Everyone is equal and Jesus is the Head of the Church. 

Still, even though Jesus had said He had done them no wrong, the labourers still complained. Even though they had agreed to work for one penny, they still felt deserving of so much more. What does Jesus  - the good man of the vineyard -- say?

"Take that thine is, and go thy way; I will give unto this last, even as unto thee. Is it not lawful for Me to do what I will with Mine own? Is thine eye evil because I am good?  So the last shall be first, and the first last; for many be called but few chosen." (Matthew 20:14-6)

Normally, this is where the teaching on this parable ends. Still, there is one more point worth including. That is, Jesus (on the way to Jerusalem) takes His twelve disciples apart to say, "Behold, we go up to Jerusalem; and the Son of man shall be betrayed unto the chief priests and unto the scribes, and they shall condemn Him to death, and shall deliver Him to the Gentiles to mock, and to scourge, and to crucify [Him]: and the third day He shall rise again." (Matthew 20:17-19) 

Therefore, a much needed lesson here. Whilst we squabble and murmur among ourselves -- over who shall be first, and who shall be last, and who is more deserving and who is not, let's remember that the ultimate sacrifice - the ultimate death and suffering -- was paid in full by the good man of the vineyard, who (in spite of ourselves) still loves us as His beloved bride -- still willing to recompense untold blessings to us for a debt that only He could pay.

"By Him therefore let us offer the sacrifice of praise to God continually, that is, the fruit of our lips giving thanks to His name." (Hebrews 13:15)

Stand in the offering plate. 

He Brought Me To The Banqueting House; His Banner Over Me Is Love - Part 2788

"The Kingdom of heaven is like to a grain of mustard seed, which a man took, and sowed in his field; which indeed is the least of all seeds; but when it is grown, it is the greatest among herbs, and becomes a tree, so that the birds of the air come and lodge in the branches thereof." (Matthew 13:31-32)\

Jesus spake unto the multitudes in parables; and without a parable spake He not unto them; that it might be fulfilled which was spoken by the prophet from afore, saying, "I will open My mouth in parables; I will utter things which have been kept secret from the foundation of the world." (Matthew 13:34-35; Psalm 78:2)

Apostle Paul sheds further light on the revelation of the mystery which was kept secret since the world began, saying, "Now to Him that is of power to stablish you according to my gospel, and the preaching of Jesus Christ, according to the revelation of the mystery, which was kept secret since the world began, but now is made manifest and by the scriptures of the prophets, according to the commandment of the everlasting God, made known to all nations for the obedience of faith; to God only wise, be glory through Jesus Christ for ever, amen." (Romans 16:25-27)

It is in this context that the discussion from the most recent post continues. Therein, Jesus shares a parable about a householder looking for those who will labour in his vineyard (Matthew 20:1-16)  The householder is the Lord God Himself. The labourers are you and I whom the Lord desires to take out of the darkness of this world, and to replace our empty hearts with His everlasting love. 

As a contrast, Solomon in the Old Testament has a vineyard in Baalhamon. (Song of Solomon 8:11-12) Therein, Solomon lets out the vineyard unto keepers, and every keeper is to bring forth a thousand pieces of silver. Solomon tells how his mother's children were angry with him, and thus made him the keeper of the vineyards. However, at the same time, Solomon laments because he has not been able to keep his own vineyards. (Song of Solomon 1:6) 

"My vineyard, which is Mine, is before Me: thou, O Solomon must have a thousand, and those that keep the fruit thereof, two hundred." (Song of Solomon 8:12)

Interestingly, we see the Lord's invitation to His chosen bride -- the body of Christ church -- in both scriptural accounts. His church being called out from the worldly system of polygamy (the worship of other gods, idols, worldly mammon, etc.) into His glorious Kingdom. 

But there is so much more. Returning to Jesus' parable in Matthew 20, several themes are introduced. First, there is the householder who is the Lord God Himself. Second, we are the labourers standing idly by because as of this point, no one has called us to work. Third, we see the kingdom of heaven expounded upon. Fourth, Jesus summarizes the parable with "the first shall be last and the last first." Fifth, parables are a mystery wherein the Lord uses a worldly example -- so that we who believe can understand a truth.

One of the mysteries emerging in the parable is specific to the new testament. That is, the new testament is about the grafting in (adoption) of the Gentiles. Apostle Paul speaks in-depth about the Gentiles becoming fellow-heirs/fellow-citizens in Ephesians 3:3-6. Of course, bringing the Gentiles into a status of equality with God's old testament people provokes the Israelites. Still, we know God is still in control, and thus, He is a debtor to no man. 

In the parable, Jesus asks, "Is it not lawful for Me to do what I will with Mine own? Is thine eye evil because I am good?" (Matthew 20:14-15) 

This is a good question -- who are we (the created) to question the wisdom and knowledge of our Creator? Conversely, shouldn't we who believe the blessings we receive  - His love, His grace, His mercy multiplied -- and that these blessings arrive most often, when we least expect it? And yet, regardless of the moment in time our hearts actually happenstance toward Him (according to the the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ), each and every one of us has an opportunity to be adopted into His vineyard. Indeed, we are all called -- a choice rendered -- to become labourers in His garden. 

In essence then, when we come to the Lord Jesus, and accept Him as our Lord God and Saviour -- we enter into the body of Christ church as equals; no longer beholden to another because of seniority. Does this mean we remain idle and/or slothful? Of course not. We are called to plant seeds and water the plant -- working out our own salvation. This is a message in and of itself. 

A couple of other points worth mentioning.

The householder not only invites those who are idle into His vineyard but He agrees to pay the labourers "whatsoever is right." (Matthew 20:4,7) At some point, these souls who are ready to be hired will make a choice -- whether to follow the Lord Jesus, or to remain a servant of iniquity.  As the scriptures repeatedly state, choose ye this day in whom ye will serve!

On a different note, do you remember who you were prior to coming to Jesus? If we consider this parable in context, we can easily assume that we too were in a state of idleness, basically living from day to day but accomplishing nothing towards the fulfillment of God's purpose and/or enhancing the Kingdom of heaven. 

The secondary thread in the parable is the penny -- which was paid equally to all the labourers who agreed to be hired. For some labourers (who were hired in the third hour of the day) the awarding of equal wages to one and all - even those hired in the ninth hour -- was seemingly unfair. However, if we substitute God's grace and mercy as the currency used in the parable -- His abundance of love which led Him to take our place on the cross -- we begin to understand the real value of the crown (heaven's glories) that surpasses all human understanding. In other words, the penny used to represent wages signified the glorious reward that has been set before us, when we choose to work the works of Him that sent us into the world. 

Thus, part of the message in the parable is for all of us to understand that salvation is not of works but by grace -- the gift of God. 

The other point worth noting is this: in the Old Testament we were wholly under the law which placed men and women in a position of debt (as debtors to do the whole law). But in the ushering in of the New Testament, the Lord has distributed His gift of grace to one and all equally - wherein everyone can be filled to completeness, the debt having been paid by His precious, holy blood on a cross. (Hebrews 9:14-18) 

Yes, the same "good man" of the house - He paid our debt in full.

More to come. Stand in the offering plate. 

Understanding The Tale Of The Bricks; The Householder Appears In His Vineyard - Part 2787

"For the kingdom of heaven is like unto a man that is an householder, which went out early in the morning to hire labourers into his vineyard. And when he had agreed with the labourers for a penny a day, he sent them into his vineyard. And he went out about the third hour, and saw others standing idle in the marketplace, and said unto them; "Go ye also into the vineyard, and whatsoever is right I will give you." And they went their way. Again he went out about the sixth and ninth hour, and did likewise. And about the eleventh hour he went out, and found others standing idle, and saith unto them, "Why stand ye here all the day idle?" They say unto him, "Because no man hath hired us." He saith unto them, "Go ye also into the vineyard; and whatsoever is right, that shall ye receive." (Matthew 20:1-7)

Herein, Jesus is portraying Himself as the householder who has come into His vineyard after an unspecified period of time, seeking hearts that will happenstance after Him. The vineyard is the earth. The harvest? The souls, while willing still unsaved. Notice the householder in the parable hires those who are standing idle. Indeed, some are notably idle all the day long. In the parable, the householder pays all of the labourers the very same wage, regardless of the number of hours each works. This leads to some of the first labourers hired grumbling within the ranks. Jesus then concludes for the second time in this scriptural passage -- "the last shall be first, and the first last: for many be called, but few chosen." (Matthew 20:16)

Some questions emerge. Who was Jesus referring to when He said the last shall be first and the first last? Was Jesus speaking directly to the Pharisees trying to tempt Him at the beginning of Matthew 19? Could His reference to the first mean the Israelites of the Old Testament -- God's beloved -- who continually worshipped other gods rather than the Lord their God who had taken them through all of life's trials? If yes, then Jesus was referring to His beloved Israelites (who should have rightfully been first) but are now the last. 

Or maybe, Jesus -- when He beheld His own disciples later on in Matthew 19-- had compassion on how they -- at least for a moment -- seemed to be aligning with the Pharisees' repeated twisted questioning. Remember, Peter soon asks Jesus, "Behold, we have forsaken all, and followed Thee; what shall we have therefore?" (Matthew 19:27)  

Does that sound like grumbling? Sure does because Peter does not appear happy concerning his own future. Nevertheless, Jesus confirms His love for them, saying, "Verily I say unto you, that ye which have followed Me, in the regeneration when the Son of man shall sit in the throne of His glory, ye also shall sit upon twelve thrones, judging the twelve tribes of Israel. And every one that hath forsaken houses, or brethren, or sisters, or father, or mother, or wife, or children, or lands, for My name’s sake, shall receive an hundredfold, and shall inherit everlasting life." (Matthew 19:28-29)

The last shall be first? Certainly, as the householder had mentioned more than once, he/He was willing to pay "whatsoever is right, that shall ye receive." (Matthew 20:4, 7) 

But let's not get too far ahead here,

Interestingly, the reference to idle is cited 11 times in the Authorized KJV Bible. For example, when Paul communicates to Timothy -- "And withal they learn to be idle ..." (I Timothy 5:13) In another place, when the believing women were trying to tell Jesus' disciples that Jesus had risen, "... their words seemed to [the disciples] as idle tales, and they believed them not." (Luke 24:11) In Ezekiel's prophecy about the end times, he writes we have "fulness of bread, and [yet] abundance of idleness was in her and in her daughters, neither did she strengthen the hand of the poor and needy." (Ezekiel 16:49)

Moreover, Solomon, considered the wisest of all kings writes, "slothfulness casts into a deep sleep; and an idle soul shall suffer hunger." (Proverbs 19:15) In contrast, "she looks well to the ways of her household, and eats not the bread of idleness." (Proverbs 31:27) We also know from Jesus' instruction -- "That every idle word that men shall speak, they shall give account thereof in the day of judgment.| (Matthew 12:36)

Yet another perspective written in Ecclesiastes 10:18 offers much insight  -- "By much slothfulness the building decays; and through idleness of the hands the house drops through."

Although all these scriptures are insightful and offer a more in-depth understanding of idleness, the latter verse from Ecclesiastes helps us to more fully understand Jesus' parable in Matthew 20. That is, by much slothfulness -- idleness -- the building decays. In new testament terms, it is the body of Christ church which becomes scattered -- because there are not enough labourers for the harvest fields that are white. By much slothfulness!

"And I heard the man clothed in linen, which was upon the waters of the river, when he held up His right hand and his left hand unto heaven, and sware by Him that lives for ever that it shall be for a time, times, and an half; and when he shall have accomplished to scatter the power of the holy people, all these things shall be finished.| (Daniel 12:7)

 

In a different context, let's examine the tale of the bricks in Exodus 4-6. 

First, it should be noted that "bricks without straw" is a worldly phrase that refers to a task which must be undertaken -- yet the task must be completed without the measure of appropriate resources. We see this come to fruition when Moses asks Pharaoh to let the Lord's people go to the desert for three days to make a sacrifice unto the Lord. Pharaoh refuses, believing the Israelites were only looking for an excuse to be idle. 

"... and the tale of the bricks, which they did make heretofore, ye shall lay upon them; ye shall not diminish ought thereof: for they be idle; therefore they cry, saying, "Let us go and sacrifice to our God." So Pharaoh orders that no more straw be given to the Israelites to make bricks. Rather, he demands them to go and gather straw for themselves just in case they be idle and cry out, "Let us go and do sacrifice to the Lord." (Exodus 5:9, 17) So, the intent of Pharaoh was "to lay more work upon the men, that they may labour therein; and let them not regard vain words." (Exodus 5:9) 

In simple terms, the Israelites still had to produce the same number of bricks as before -- for building Pharaoh's grandiose kingdom -- but now they were expected to fetch the straw also from other places. Further, Pharaoh had no compassion for the enslaved Israelites, increasingly burdening them with more and more -- again, as a rationale in his mind for preventing the Israelites from becoming idle. As we know from subsequent chapters, the people eventually blame Moses and Aaron for their plight, rather than trusting God's promise that the land would be theirs.

Nevertheless, there is another unique comparison that can easily be drawn between the old testament tale of the bricks and the new testament parable of the householder in the vineyard. That is, when we labour for earthly kings (employers), the burden we carry tends to become greater over time. Our moments of idleness are consumed, because world-focused authorities want us to give our best to the construction of their worldly kingdoms. 

However, when we look to Jesus as the householder in the vineyard, we learn that He does the heavy lifting; that His burden is light, and His rewards remarkable and beyond measure -- as Jesus reveals to His disciple Peter.

"Then answered Peter and said unto Him, "Behold, we have forsaken all, and followed Thee; what shall we have therefore?" And Jesus said unto them, "Verily I say unto you, That ye which have followed Me, in the regeneration when the Son of man shall sit in the throne of His glory, ye also shall sit upon twelve thrones, judging the twelve tribes of Israel." And every one that hath forsaken houses, or brethren, or sisters, or father, or mother, or wife, or children, or lands, for My name’s sake, shall receive an hundredfold, and shall inherit everlasting life." (Matthew 19:27-29)

The last shall be first. 

This is not to suggest that there are not multiple takeaways from this parable (because there are) but again the link between the two confirms the old testament is physical - as in physical circumcision-- and the new testament spiritual -- as in circumcision of heart.

So, when we realize how important a cog we are in the body of Christ wheel, and how necessary it is that each and every one of us put our hand to the plow, we too realize that it isn't about an earthly paycheck, but rather seeking the treasure that is the Kingdom of God -- where we will shine as bright lights in the firmament. 

Yes, the Lord levelled the playing field when He ushered in the new testament, because of His willingness to go to an old rugged cross, and shed His precious holy blood so that we who believe in Him might have abundant life. And the irony is that this same Lord Jesus -- the householder who willingly came to His vineyard -- is still calling you and I in our idleness to taste and see that He is good! 

Stand in the offering plate. 

The Truth Shall Set Us Free - Part 2786

"As [Jesus] spake these words, many believed on Him. Then said Jesus 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."

They answered Him, "We be Abraham’s seed and were never in bondage to any man: how sayest thou, "Ye shall be made free?"

Jesus answered them, "Verily, verily, I say unto you, Whosoever commits sin is the servant of sin. And the servant abides not in the house for ever: but the Son abides ever. If the Son therefore shall make you free, ye shall be free indeed. I know that ye are Abraham’s seed; but ye seek to kill Me, because My word hath no place in you." (John 8:30-37)

Just prior to this, Jesus had been teaching the people in the temple, Intentionally, the scribes and Pharisees brought in a woman caught in adultery, tempting Jesus so that they might have reason to accuse Him. We know what happens next -- Jesus stoops down with His finger and writes on the ground. Jesus then says, "he that is without sin among you, let him first cast a stone at her." Again, Jesus stoops down and writes on the ground. Beginning at the eldest even unto the last, each of the accusers walks away "being convicted by their own conscience." (John 8:9) 

When Jesus looks up, there are no accusers left. Jesus asks the woman, "Where are those thine accusers? Hath no man condemned thee?" She said, "No man, Lord." And Jesus then said unto the woman, " Neither do I condemn thee: go and sin no more." (John 8:10-11; John 3:17; John 5:14) 

You see, Jesus did not come into the world to condemn the world but that the world through Him might be saved. How? Because he/she that believes in Jesus is not condemned, but he/she that believes not is condemned already -- "because he/she hath not believed in the Name of the only begotten Son of God." (John 3:17-18; Luke 19:30; I John 3:16; I John 4:14; Mark 16:16; John 5:24)

What happens when Jesus no longer condemns us? We have passed from a death sentence into eternal life. But does that mean we stop there? Of course not. This is the time when we should desire to delve into the meat -- the spiritual meat of His Word. Like Saul -- when the risen Jesus instructed Saul on the road to Damascus to see Ananias. Therein, Saul was water baptized, willingly receiving the meat that strengthened him. 

"Verily, verily, I say unto you -- he that hears My word, and believes on Him that sent Me, hath everlasting life, and shall not come into condemnation but unto life." (John 5:24) 

In other words, we need to understand that we shall die in our sins -- if we believe not that Jesus is He. For additional clarity, let me again repeat Jesus' words in John 8:24 -- "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) 

Much needed clarity herein ... but I digress somewhat.

Jesus then begins to tell those who still want to listen -- that He Jesus -- is the Light of the world. That those who follow Him will never walk in darkness; but shall have the Light of life. The same Light of life that lights up every one who enters into the world. 

"The Lord is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear? the Lord is the strength of my life; of whom shall I be afraid?" (Psalm 27:1)

 

Conversely, the Pharisees repeatedly questioned Jesus' authority -- as these did often. We see this when the Pharisees asked Jesus, "Where is Thy Father?" Jesus responds, saying. "Ye neither know Me, nor My Father. if ye had known Me, ye should have known My Father also." (John 8:19)

In another place, Jesus shares with His disciples, "I and My Father are One!" and therefore, "if ye have seen Me, ye have seen the Father and know Him." (John 14:6-12)

Jesus goes on to tell the Pharisees (who clearly did not understand what Jesus was saying) -- that when ye have lifted up the Son of man, then shall ye know that I am He, and that I do nothing of Myself; but as My Father hath taught Me, I speak these things. And He that sent Me is with Me; the Father hath not left Me alone; for I do always these things that please Him." (John 8:29)

So what happens next? As expected, some people did believe in Jesus, choosing to take up His cross and follow HIm. Some did accept that Jesus has the words of life! And like Peter, many determined within their own hearts -- Lord, where can we go? You alone have the words of life!

How right Peter was ... for it is in this revelation that we make room in our hearts for the Word of the Lord -- or as Jesus stated, "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 8:31-32) 

Therefore, if the Son has made you free, ye are free indeed. And thus, no one can take away the freedom which only Jesus -- the King of kings and Lord of lords - can give! 

Why? Because Jesus states, "I am the Way, the Truth, and the Life. No man comes unto the Father but by Me!" (John 14:6) Don't miss these simple gospel truths this day! For Jesus is still calling to those whose hearts who desire to abide in Him. 

And His truth will always set us free! 

Stand in the offering plate. 

Save Yourselves From This Untoward Generation, That Would Deceive Us From The Truth - Part 2785

"But Peter, standing up with the eleven, lifted up his voice, and said unto them, "Ye men of Judæa, and all ye that dwell at Jerusalem, be this known unto you, and hearken to my words: for these are not drunken, as ye suppose, seeing it is but the third hour of the day. But this is that which was spoken by the prophet Joel; "And it shall come to pass in the last days, saith God, I will pour out of My Spirit upon all flesh: and your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, and your young men shall see visions, and your old men shall dream dreams: and on My servants and on My handmaidens I will pour out in those days of My Spirit; and they shall prophesy: and I will shew wonders in heaven above, and signs in the earth beneath; blood, and fire, and vapour of smoke: the sun shall be turned into darkness, and the moon into blood, before that great and notable day of the Lord come: and it shall come to pass, that whosoever shall call on the name of the Lord shall be saved." (Acts 1:14-21)

Herein, Peter is referring to a prophecy in Joel, wherein the Lord brings to pass on the day of Pentecost an experience whereby He pours His Spirit on all flesh -- so that young men see visions, and old men see dreams, and on His servants and handmaidens, will He pour out His Spirit so they prophesy. (Joel 2:28) Moreover, at the same time, there will be wonders in heaven and signs in the earth before that great and notable day of the Lord comes. 

But Peter (standing in one accord with the eleven) does not stop there. Peter continues, saying, "Ye men of Israel, hear these words; Jesus of Nazareth, a man approved of God among you by miracles and wonders and signs, which God did by Him in the midst of you, as ye yourselves also know: Him, being delivered by the determinate counsel and foreknowledge of God, ye have taken, and by wicked hands have crucified and slain: whom God hath raised up, having loosed the pains of death: because it was not possible that He should be holden of it. For David speaks concerning Him, I foresaw the Lord always before My face, for He is on My right hand, that I should not be moved: therefore did my heart rejoice, and my tongue was glad; moreover also my flesh shall rest in hope: because Thou wilt not leave My soul in hell, neither wilt thou suffer Thine Holy One to see corruption. Thou hast made known to me the ways of life; thou shalt make me full of joy with Thy countenance." (Acts 2:21-28) 

Again, a prophecy from David the psalmist indicating that every prophecy given of the Lord unto the prophets of old will (and does) come to fruition In this case, we see the culmination of old testament prophecy aligning on he day of Pentecost -- which marks the beginning of the new testament church. (Acts 2:22) 

It's also critical to note that the Acts 2 message was not just given to one nationality (as some claim), but to all those who dwell in Jerusalem -- including the Parthians, and Medes, and Elamites, and the dwellers in Mesopotamia, and in Judæa, and Cappadocia, in Pontus, and Asia, Phrygia, and Pamphylia, in Egypt, and in the parts of Libya about Cyrene, and strangers of Rome, Jews and proselytes, Cretes and Arabians. 

As we read in the scriptures, Peter begins to speak freely, regarding David's prophecy specifically, and of the patriarch David, that is both dead and buried. 

"Men and brethren, let me freely speak unto you of the patriarch David, that he is both dead and buried, and his sepulchre is with us unto this day. Therefore being a prophet, and knowing that God had sworn with an oath to him, that of the fruit of his loins, according to the flesh, he would raise up Christ to sit on His throne; he seeing this before spake of the resurrection of Christ, that his soul was not left in hell, neither his flesh did see corruption. This Jesus hath God raised up, whereof we all are witnesses. Therefore being by the right hand of God exalted, and having received of the Father the promise of the Holy Ghost, He hath shed forth this, which ye now see and hear. For David is not ascended into the heavens: but He saith Himself, "The Lord said unto My Lord, Sit thou on My right hand, until I make Thy foes Thy footstool. Therefore let all the house of Israel know assuredly, that God hath made that same Jesus, whom ye have crucified, both Lord and Christ."

In other words, in prophesying, God had swore an oath to David, that from his loins (according to the flesh) God would raise up Christ to sit on His throne. And David was seeing all of this prior to the prophecy being fulfilled. We also see this clarified in the lineage of Jesus, as outlined within the gospels. This same Christ that followed the Israelites through the Red Sea (the Rock which was Christ) was going to become our Saviour, and upon His throne, all the house of Israel would know assuredly that this same Jesus, whom they crucified is both Lord and Christ. (I Corinthians 10:1-4)

That this same Jesus, as both Lord and Christ would reign as King of kings and Lord of lords throughout this New Testament dispensation of grace. The risen Jesus -- Alpha and Omega, the first and the last, the beginning and the ending. 

"Now when they heard this, they were pricked in their heart, and said unto Peter and to the rest of the apostles, "Men and brethren, what shall we do?" Then Peter said unto them, "Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost. For the promise is unto you, and to your children, and to all that are afar off, even as many as the Lord our God shall call." And with many other words did he testify and exhort, saying, "Save yourselves from this untoward generation."

Then they that gladly received His Word (Jesus - the Word made flesh and dwelt among us) were baptized: and the same day there were added unto them about three thousand souls." (Acts 2:36-41)

The key here is the question -- what must we do? 

And as we see from Peter's response, we need to believe and understand that this same Jesus (whom all of us at one point or another has crucified in our hearts) needs to repent, and be water baptized in His precious holy name so that He can clothe us in His righteousness, filling us too with His Spirit of love and mercy and grace. 

What was the response? The first 3,000 souls saved adhered to the message of the apostles. If we read further in Acts 2, we see the fruits, wherein the people went breaking bread from house to house, ensuring that no one was without. This is the good news gospel of the Lord Jesus -- that He would love us so much that He would become our Saviour. (I Timothy 3:16) 

Don't miss out in His wondrous plan of salvation, wherein we will sit with Him in heavenly places forevermore. Stand in the offering plate. 

If I Be Lifted Up, Saith Jesus, I Will Draw All Men Unto Me - Part 2784

All they that put their trust in JESUS, these people shall never be ashamed. The temple of the Lord’s house (in which He is pleased to dwell) began to be manifest on the day of Pentecost. On this day -- the beginning of the New Testament church -- was the first day that God poured forth from Himself the Spirit of His Son. As was promised earlier in the scriptures, JESUS the SEED of God which SEED was manifest in flesh, the Lord JESUS (the Christ) being the embodiment of God‘s own Word - this same JESUS sacrificed His pure body upon a cruel savage Roman cross in order to provide a way for man’s redemption.

For it is written in Acts chapter 15 that ‘after those days (crucifixion) He will return again (in Spirit). As stated, "I will build again the tabernacle of David which is fallen down." JESUS Himself is the cornerstone of this temple (under construction) in which temple the Spirit of the Lord is pleased to dwell. This temple is not a brick and mortar building. Rather, this temple is a spiritual temple to be inhabited by God's Spirit. 

The apostles chosen of God Himself are the foundation. The apostles being His commissioned witnesses to the uttermost parts of the earth. This is why it is important that we know that the spiritual temple is constructed of God’s redeemed, born again, water baptized, Spirit filled believers. Each believer added by God Himself as living stones. These living stones, jointed and fitly framed together in believing faith forming God’s temple.

The Head of this temple is the Lord JESUS. Therefore, the head of this temple cannot be replaced by an imposter, or a man elevated by a religious system. No. As the scriptures state, the Head of this temple is JESUS -- the only begotten Son of the Holy Ghost.

But in many religious institutions today, some want to re-offer JESUS as if JESUS' crucifixion being the once and for all sacrifice was not sufficient. Or that by re-offering JESUS, God Himself as a Son, suggests that the death and burial of JESUS was an inadequate offering that now has to be perpetuated. Fortunately, for those who study the scriptures, this type of teaching flies in the face of the written Word of God.

For the scriptures clearly state that JESUS ascended up into Heaven and sat down. Suggesting that the sacrifice of JESUS at Calvary was incomplete begs the question - why pray tell did JESUS say on the cross "It is finished"? Remember that upon saying this, JESUS gave up His ghostly Spirit.

Indeed, JESUS said that as often as one eats this bread and drinks this wine, you do show forth the Lord's death till He returns. We as believers need to remember that this one sacrifice - a once and for all time sacrifice provided by Jesus - means that there is no other sacrifice that can be offered to pay for our sin. 

What do the scriptures state?

Look to Me (Jesus) all you people who are heavy laden and burdened. Look to Me all of you who are from all over the the earth and be saved. For I AM GOD and apart from ME there is no Saviour.

But again, there are those within the modern day religious culture who are not satisfied that our debt has been paid once and for all (by the blood of Jesus), and thus, determined that we would compromise the faith. As well, if we look into the scriptures, there in no doctrine pertaining to transubstantiation. The bread does not become flesh (cannibalism) and the wine does not become blood (for it is written in Acts chapter 15, keep yourself from drinking blood).

Again, the sacrifice necessary for our sins to be forgiven was paid on the cross, once and for all. And it was a hefty price that was paid. 

So where are you in all of this? The apostles identified these deviations from the scriptures as "another" gospel. Historically, as well, we know that this other gospel emanated from Rome around 300/400 AD. And as foreign to that commissioned and confirmed gospel which the Lord delivered to the redeemed living members, the Lord daily still adds to His family bearing His name. Therefore, it is through JESUS - the only Name whereby any person can receive the gift of eternal life - can we receive the promised gift of salvation.

Certainly, it is a gift worth pursuing. In this context, ask the Lord into your life so that you too can become a habitation of God’s Spirit. Stand in the offering plate.

Not Acknowledging Religion, But Rather God's Supremacy And Presence In This World - Part 2783

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

Jesus -- in whom we have redemption through His blood. Jesus - who hath delivered us from the power of darkness. Jesus -- who has translated [us] into the Kingdom. Jesus -- in whom we can be confident we have forgiveness of sins. Jesus -- who is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn of every creature. Jesus -- for by Him were all things created that are in heaven and in earth, visible and invisible, whether they be thrones, or dominions, or principalities, or powers. Jesus -- all things were created by Him and for Him and He is before all things, and by Him all things exist. Jesus -- in whom it pleased the Father that in Him should all the fullness of the Godhead dwell. (Colossians 1:13-17)

This same Jesus who hung on the cross between heaven and earth -- our Lord God and Saviour who loved us even before the world was formed -- wants to give us rest. His peace. Freedom in His love that surpasses all human understanding.

"This is why it is written, that Abraham had two sons, the one by a bondmaid, the other by a freewoman. But he who was of the of the bondwoman was born after the flesh but he of the freewoman was by promise -- which things are an allegory; for these are the two covenants; the one from the mount Sinai, which genders to bondage, which is Agar. For this Agar is mount Sinai in Arabia and answers to Jerusalem which now is, and is in bondage with her children.

But Jerusalem which is above is free, which is the mother of us all. For it is written, "Rejoice thou barren that bears not; break forth and cry, thou hast travails not, for the desolate hath many more children than she which hath an husband. Now we brethren as Isaac was, are the children of promise."

But as then he that was born after the flesh persecuted him that was born after the Spirit, even so it is now. Nevertheless what saith the scripture? "Cast out the bondwoman and her son; for the son of the bondwoman shall not be heir with the son of the freewoman."

So then brethren, we are not children of the bondwoman, but of the free." (Galatians 4:22-31)

As believers born into the freedom of our Lord and King, Jesus wants to give us His kingdom here on earth -- and fill our lives with His abundance. Thy kingdom come on earth as it is in heaven. He wants to bestow upon us His many blessings that until now -- the time of promise that is to you and your children and those who are afar off -- blessings in abundance that the eye hath not seen nor the heart imagined. The goodness of His grace that our Lord God and Saviour has in store for those who love Him and press inward toward Him in their daily journey.

"For if Jesus had given them rest, then would He not afterward have spoken of another day. There remains therefore a rest to the people of God. For He that is entered into His rest, He also hath ceased from His own works, as God did from His. Let us labour therefore to enter into that rest" coming boldly unto the throne of grace, that we might obtain mercy and find grace to help in time of need. (Hebrews 4:8-11, 16)

Why? Because we do not worship a high priest which cannot be touched with the feeling of our infirmities. Rather, we serve Jesus who was in all points tempted like as we are, yet without sin. Indeed, He died for our sins so that we could be set free in the liberty wherein is Christ. This is the same Jesus who wants to live in our hearts today. Rejoice! 

Stand in the offering plate.

For By Grace Are Ye Saved Through Faith: It Is The Gift Of God - Part 2782

"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 of the sacrifice of JESUS the Christ, who was indeed the only begotten child of the holy Spirit of God or, as the scriptures state, God Himself manifest in the flesh as a Son, we have an opportunity to be saved. Yes, God in the manifestation of JESUS (Emmanuel -- God with us) had a plan for all of His creation. This is why it is important to understand that in Jesus did ALL the fullness of the Godhead dwell bodily. (Matthew 1:21-23; Colossians 2:9) 

If some of you require an analogy, think of a drop of water from the ocean. Even with only the one drop, you would still be in possession of all the elements found in the ocean waters. Still, there remains a vast body of water that is ocean. It is the same with God in Christ. All of the fullness of the Godhead dwelt bodily in Jesus. All of the fullness of the Godhead.

"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." (II Corinthians 5:19)

This is why Jesus said to Philip, "If you have seen Me, then Philip you have seen the Father. I and my Father are one. He that has seen Me (the Son) has seen the Father." (John 14:6-12) In other words, God has fathered all of His children in a Son’s body. Surely natural life as we see it displays this obvious fact. All of man’s offspring are fathered from a son’s body and ... after the child is born the son who provided the seed is recognized as a father.

JESUS then was conceived of the Holy Ghost - the Holy Ghost providing the new blood line. God Himself as a Son seeded us for it is written, "We are the SEED of JESUS the Christ." The SEED of JESUS the Christ is the WORD of God. For we have been born again NOT of corruptible seed BUT by incorruptible SEED which is the WORD of God.

"And the angel answered and said unto her, The Holy Ghost shall come upon thee, and the power of the Highest shall overshadow thee: therefore also that holy thing which shall be born of thee shall be called the Son of God." (Luke 1:35)

JESUS being the very same WORD/WISDOM that indwelt God. Yes, one and the same. JESUS the WORD  that became flesh and dwelt among us (John 1:1, 14) the WISDOM of GOD coming forth from the innermost being of God, becoming for our sake God manifest in the flesh as a Son. God was manifest in visible form like unto Adam‘s sin prone race, appearing in such humiliated form to destroy the evil works and destruction of the devil.

"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)

JESUS purposely came in this condescended form so that we might have life eternal. JESUS did not descend into our midst to condemn us! Rather, JESUS came that we might have ample opportunity to be brought out from “the bondage of the law of sin and death" being translated by the grace of God into the Kingdom of God in Christ. And likewise, into the Law of Liberty!

"Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men." (Luke 2:14)

Indeed, God has a plan for man, which unfortunately is often obscured and hid from many eyes. Who could entertain the thought that God would lay down His own life as a Son for us? But as we know from reading the scriptures, and similarly, our personal walk with our Saviour -- God by Himself provided a way whereby sinful, disobedient, sin prone man could be redeemed.

Even today, with all of the eloquent speeches of men, their words are lame in comparison to the factual WORDS of ETERNAL LIFE spoken and confirmed by God. The same God who was indwelling the man JESUS the Christ who desired from the beginning of time to reconcile fallen man to Himself. As many as received JESUS received life! This is God's promise to one and all!

Stand in the offering plate.

And Each Man Heard Them Speak The Wondrous Works of Jesus - Part 2781

"And ye shall call His name JESUS for He shall save His people from their sins.| (Matthew 1:21-23) 

JESUS being the only head of the Church commissioned the following message to His disciples. That is, repentance and remission of sin should be preached in My name amongst all nations beginning at Jerusalem. Note specifically the words that state repentance and remission of sin should be preached in His Name. So the question is - what is His name? 

According to scriptures, His Name is JESUS. This explains why the apostles did not preach in any other name. Because at no point in the scriptures were the apostles commissioned to preach in any other name.

But as we also know, satan comes along to muddy the waters - like in the wilderness when Jesus was tempted while fasting for 40 days and nights. Therein, satan tempts JESUS with his distorted translation of scripture. Conversely, JESUS who is the VERY WORD of God never quotes from a revised, rewritten edition. Neither was Jesus tempted to change the Word to please another being.

Indeed, as we know from the example of Jesus being tempted in the desert, Jesus referred satan to the scriptures three times -- "It is written!" [Overall, in both the old and new, "it is written" is cited 95 times.]

From Matthew 4:

"Then was Jesus led up of the Spirit into the wilderness to be tempted of the devil. And when He had fasted forty days and forty nights, He was afterward an hungred. And when the tempter came to Him, he said, "If Thou be the Son of God, command that these stones be made bread." But He answered and said, "It is written, man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceeds out of the mouth of God."

Then the devil takes Him up into the holy city, and setts Him on a pinnacle of the temple, and saith unto Him, "If Thou be the Son of God, cast Thyself down: for it is written, He shall give His angels charge concerning Thee: and in their hands they shall bear Thee up, lest at any time Thou dash thy foot against a stone." Jesus said unto him, "It is written again, Thou shalt not tempt the Lord thy God."

Again, the devil takes Him up into an exceeding high mountain, and shews Him all the kingdoms of the world, and the glory of them; and saith unto Him, "All these things will I give Thee, if thou wilt fall down and worship me." Then saith Jesus unto him, "Get thee hence, satan: for it is written, thou shalt worship the Lord thy God, and Him only shalt thou serve." Then the devil leaves Him, and, behold, angels came and ministered unto Him."

It is no wonder the devil had to flee, because Jesus - both Lord and Christ -- remains victorious in all things.

Still, several key issues have emerged since the time (early in Jesus; ministry) when Jesus was in the desert. First, as Amos prophesies from afore, many who profess to believe are not aware of the real salvation message Jesus was sent to preach. Second, the church fathers have since wrapped their changed teachings in a worldly garment, desiring to have followers of Jesus take their eyes from Him, and instead clothe themselves in their own material things. 

Nevertheless, as the historical record alludes, these same church fathers admit to changing Matthew 28:19, rendering the original 'it is written' wording to indicate -- "in the name of the father, son and spirit." Please know that this rendering is in complete contrast to the original teachings of the apostles. Further, there is no confirming scripture for this teaching. As well, if one researches the changes made to this one scripture, they will find that all encyclopedia’s refute Matthew 28:19 as it is currently presented. In fact, even the present day pope admits that the Roman Catholic church altered this scripture at some point.

The difficulty is that the rendering of the scriptures was adopted by all of the reformation churches. Thus, while their adherence and later admission to teaching scriptural error is commendable, it has done little to erase the error. It has not helped either that there exists, even today those indoctrinated adherents who stubbornly uphold their denominational error even when the truth is made known. The confusion becomes more entrenched when the truth is revealed that emphasizes correct Biblical teachings.

For example, any doctrines or teaching pertaining to salvation can be only be found in the Name of JESUS. (Acts 4:12; Philippians 2:9) 

But far too often, what happens is that these same religious folks try to justify their teachings rather than adhere to the scriptures. How many times have we heard in reference to water baptism that you are not being baptized into Jesus the Christ but rather you are only being baptized upon the authority of Jesus the Christ. Apparently, this new rendering of the scriptures justifies the use of "in the name of the Father, Son, and Spirit" when baptizing, even when none of these descriptive titles resembles a name.

Still, nowhere in the scriptures was there ever any person or family water baptized using the titles. Sure, many of us have went along with this erroneous teaching, primarily because of our own ignorance of the written Word of God. And perhaps, that we simply trusted the ecclesiastical system. But now that we know different, what will we do?

Remember, Adam and Eve also transgressed God’s instructions in the Garden. Look where they ended up - as strangers and foreigners to God. Still, the good news is that we originally were created of God to be His beloved body of Christ church. 

God made us! 

God loved us! 

And indeed, He loved us so much that He redeemed us back to Himself.

A redemptive price had to be paid. A hefty price. In fact, the cost of our redemption meant the death of a righteous man. But as we learn from the scriptures, there was not to found amongst Adam's fallen race one righteous man. So instead the humanity of God prevailed on our behalf. God Himself veiled Himself in flesh (yet without sin). 

Yes, God laid down His life as a Son, purchasing free redemption for all who come to Him.

This is why we need to adhere to the scriptures. When JESUS COMMISSIONED His disciples to preach the altar call -- it was in Acts 2:36-41. During that first alter call, 3000 persons repented, believed, and were baptized into the name of JESUS for the remission of their sin. 

The question now is this. What hinders you from repentance, believing and being water baptized as JESUS commissioned? 

Peter, standing with the eleven on the day of Pentecost told these 3,000 souls that they had to repent, be water baptized every one of you in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ for the remission of sins and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost. (Acts 2:36-41) And so should this very same formula for water baptism be the same message  the apostles used apply on us.

Acts 2:36-41 -- the most critical message for this day!

Stand in the offering plate.

Behold, I Will Both Search For My Sheep And Feed Them - Part 2780

"For thus saith the Lord God, "Behold; I, [even] I, will both search for My sheep and seek them out. As a shepherd seeks out his flock in the day that he is among his sheep that are scattered; so will I seek out My sheep, and will deliver them out of the places when they have been scattered in the cloudy and dark day. And I will bring them out from the people, and gather them to their own land, and feed them upon the mountains of Israel by the rivers, and in all the inhabited places of the country. I will feed them in a good pasture, and upon the high mountains of Israel shall their fold be: there shall they lie in a good fold, and in a fat pasture shall they feed upon the mountains of Israel. I will feed My flock and and I will cause them to lie down," saith the Lord God. (Ezekiel 34:11-1)

When did the Lord God who created us in the beginning first seek a relationship with His beloved? Moreover, when did the Lord God not only search for His sheep (which is you and I) but deliberately and diligently seek His sheep/you and I out? And feed them/us? And deliver them/us out of the places when they/we have been scattered in the cloudy and dark day?

Throughout the Old Testament, the Lord God told His people that He would become their Saviour. That from the very beginning, even before the world was formed, He had a plan wherein He would bring us salvation. His redemption message wherein we could be saved because of how much He loved us.

Jesus said, "For the Son of man is come to seek and to save that which was lost." (Luke 19:10)

Jesus also said, "I am the door: by Me if any man enter in, he shall be saved, and shall go in and out, and find pasture." (John 10:9) 

In other words, whilst the Spirit of the Lord God was moving upon the waters in Genesis, He was also thinking forward to His beloved in this current dispensation of grace, wherein He, the Lord was going to pitch the tent. Wherein He was going to do a brand new work.

And, as a consequence of His amazing love, we can continually commune with our God our Saviour, for He has made a way when there was no way. 

"But now thus saith the Lord that created thee, "O Jacob, and He that formed thee, O Israel, Fear not: for I have redeemed thee, I have called thee by thy name; thou art Mine. When thou pass through the waters, I will be with thee; and through the rivers, they shall not overflow thee: when thou walk through the fire, thou shalt not be burned; neither shall the flame kindle upon thee. For I am the Lord thy God, the Holy One of Israel, thy Saviour:" (Isaiah 43:1-3)

For I am the Lord thy God, the Holy One of Israel -- our Saviour -- and He will feed His flock and deliver us out of the places where we have been scattered in the cloudy and dark day, for as He said when He walked this earth, "I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee!"

Jesus - King of kings and Lord of lords, Alpha and Omega, the first and the last, the beginning and the ending.

Stand in the offering plate.