Again, God is not the author of confusion. He wants believers to first seek Jesus and His righteousness so that we have the wisdom and knowledge to discern what is right and honest and truthful, according to His Word.
For example, Jesus said, "For this is My blood of the new testament which is shed for many for the remission of sins." (Matthew 26:28) Not just once but He repeated this same statement again in Mark. "This is my blood of the new testament which is shed for many." (Mark 14:24) And again in Luke. "This cup is the new testament in My blood which is shed for you." (Luke 22:20)
Why? Because the salvation message is not just about believing on Jesus. We are to understand that in shedding His precious blood on the cross Jesus was fulfilling the law and commandments that existed under the old covenant. Remember, under the old covenant, Moses lifted up a bronze serpent in the wilderness which had been secured to a pole, so that whoever gazed upon it would be healed. Well, today in this dispensation of grace, a more effectual sacrifice has been offered -- once and for all -- so that we could become the sons and daughters of the Most High King.
That is, God Himself became flesh so that "by His stripes we are/were healed." (John 1:1-18; Isaiah 53:5; I Peter 2:24)
But Jesus did not stop with healing in the physical sense. Jesus came to fulfill the former covenant, ripping the veil in two -- from top to bottom so that we could walk in the cool of the day with our Most High God. This is why we proclaim JESUS from the mountaintops -- Jesus -- the same yesterday, today and forever -- so that whosoever should look upon Him could also be delivered from all bondage and captivity of sin. (Hebrews 13:8)
"For ye have not received the spirit of bondage again to fear, but ye have received the Spirit of adoption, whereby we cry, Abba, Father." (Romans 8:15)
We have been set free by His grace and mercy. His love.
But we need also to study His Word -- as a workman does, to show ourselves approved. In this context, we are encouraged as newborn babes to desire the sincere milk of His Word -- in order that we might grow in knowledge and wisdom.
Why is this important? Because once we have tasted the goodness and mercy of our Lord Jesus, we can no longer be tossed to and fro with false doctrines from false apostles and deceitful workers -- who have transformed themselves into the apostles of Christ. (I Corinthians 11:13-15; I Peter 2:2-3)
Instead, we will understand that when we believe on Him, we shall not be confounded. (I Peter 2:4-6) We will not be confounded by false teachings and the religious culture of this day-- when we seek Jesus first with all our heart, soul, mind and strength, and His righteousness.
Therefore, believe He is precious. Know that "ye are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, an holy nation, a peculiar people; that ye should shew forth the praises of Him who hath called you out of darkness into His marvellous light, which in time past were not a people, but are now the people of God: which had not obtained mercy, but now have obtained mercy." (I Peter 2:6-10)
Proclaim the Apostle and High Priest of our profession Jesus, who tasted death for every man -- the Just for the unjust -- who was to fulfill that which had already been predetermined before the very foundation of the earth. That is He, the Lamb of God, would be delivered into the midst of wicked men and be slain, thereby achieving opportunity for the lost to have redemption.
He Himself taking away the sin of all those who call upon His Name - "JESUS" This is why we thankfully cry out, "Abba, Father."
"For even hereunto were ye called: because Christ also suffered for us, leaving us an example, that ye should follow His steps, who did no sin, neither was guile found in His mouth. Who, when He was reviled, reviled not again; when He suffered, He threatened not; but committed Himself to Him that judges righteously:
Who His own self bare our sins in His own body on the tree, that we, being dead to sins, should live unto righteousness: by whose stripes ye were healed. For ye were as sheep going astray; but are now returned unto the Shepherd and Bishop of your souls." (I Peter 2:21-25)
Be thankful for His goodness and mercy. Seek His Word every day. Stand in the offering plate.
All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness
Monday, April 14, 2014
Come and See the Mystery that has Been Hid From Generations - Part 881
"God is not the author of confusion, but of peace as in all churches of the saints." (I Corinthians 14:33) I began this theme a couple of weeks ago but got sidetracked. Today, I believe would be a good time to start connecting the scriptures so that we can all gain an accurate understanding of the good news gospel of the Kingdom --- His truth. The grace and truth that came by Jesus Christ. (John 1:17)
But how do we learn of the truth when the "religious culture" of this day teaches a different gospel? First and foremost, we must look to the Word -- the Bible -- to see what He Himself said. That is, He who knew no sin and yet became sin so that you and I could be saved. That is our starting point.
Why? Because without the Word, there is no foundation for what you believe. This is why we are instructed as believers to seek Jesus and His righteousness with all our heart, soul, mind and strength. To study the scriptures, as a workman, to show thyself approved. (II Timothy 2:15)
Jesus said, "But whosoever drinketh of the water that I shall give him shall never thirst, but the water that I shall give him shall be in him a well of water springing up into everlasting life." (John 4:14) Just like the woman at the well, we should be bubbling over with joy, because we have laid His Word in our hearts.
"What seek ye?" asked Jesus of the two disciples who followed Him after hearing Him speak. They had asked, "Rabbi (which is to say, being interpreted, Master) where dwellest Thou?" Jesus said, "Come and see." (John 1:38-39) Indeed, this is what we need to do this day. Come and see that the Lord is good -- so loving of His beloved creation that He Himself would devise a plan that included shedding His precious blood on the cross.
"Even the mystery which hath been hid from ages and from generations but now is made manifest to His saints ... to whom God would make known what is the riches of the glory of this mystery among the Gentiles, which is Christ in you the hope of glory -- whom we preach, warning every man and teaching every man in all wisdom that we may present every man perfect in Christ Jesus." (Colossians 1:26-29)
"And to make all men see what is the fellowship of the mystery, which from the beginning of the world hath been hid in God, who created all things by Jesus Christ; to the intent that now unto the principalities and powers in heavenly places might be known by the church the manifold wisdom of God -- according to the eternal purpose which He purposed in Christ Jesus, our Lord." (Ephesians 3:9-11)
John wrote: "In the beginning was the Word and the Word was with God and the Word was God. The same was in the beginning with God. All things were made by Him; and without Him was not anything made that was made." (John 1:1-3)
John did not stop there. "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. But as many as received Him, to them gave He power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on His name -- which were born not of blood, nor of the will of the flesh, nor of the will of man, but of 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 1:10-14)
In Colossians, Paul as an apostle of Jesus Christ confirmed John's writing when he wrote: "Who hath delivered us from the darkness and hath translated us into the kingdom of His dear Son -- in whom we have redemption through His blood, even the forgiveness of sins; who is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn of every creature -- for by Him were all things created that are in heaven, and that are in earth, visible and invisible, whether they be thrones or dominions or principalities or powers; all things were created by Him and for Him and He is before all things and by Him all things consist ... and He is the head of the body, the church; who is he beginning, the firstborn from the dead, that in all things He might have the preeminence .. for it pleased the Father that in Him should all fulness dwell ... and having made peace through the blood of His cross, by Him to reconcile all things unto Himself, by Him, I say, whether they be things in earth, or things in heaven." (Colossians 1:13-20)
This same message is further confirmed in Colossians 2:9: "For in Him dwelleth all the fulness of the Godhead bodily, and ye are complete in Him which is the head of all principality and power."
Indeed, Jesus Himself said, "I and My Father are one." (John 10:33) Not God in three persons, or a triune God or the trinity which the religious culture teaches but Jesus was God in the flesh. The same God who created us willingly became flesh so that we might experience His goodness and grace.
As John wrote, Jesus had been teaching as always but "there was a division therefore again among the Jews for these sayings" -- the teachings that Jesus was presenting. (John 10:19) So much so, that the Jews surrounded Jesus and said, "How long dost Thou make us to doubt? If Thou be the Christ, tell us plainly." (John 10:23-24)
Jesus answered them, "I told you and ye believed not. The works that I do in my Father's name, they bear witness of Me. But ye believe not, because ye are not My sheep. My sheep hear My voice and I know them, and they follow Me. And I give unto them eternal life; and they shall never perish, neither shall any man pluck them out of My hand. My Father, which gave them Me is greater than all; and no man is able to pluck them out of My Father's hand. I and My Father are one." (John 10:25-30)
This is not the only time Jesus indicated that He and the Father are one.
"Jesus saith unto [Thomas], "I am the way, the truth and the life. No man comes unto the Father but by Me. If ye had known Me, ye should have known My Father also, and from henceforth, ye know Him and have seen Him." (John 14:6-7)
Philip then said, "Lord, show us the Father and it sufficeth us." Jesus said unto him, "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, "Show us the Father" Believest thou not that I am in the Father and the Father in Me? The words that I speak unto you I speak not of Myself but the Father that dwells in Me ... He doeth the works. Believe Me that I am in the Father and the Father in Me, or else believe Me for the very works sake." (John 14:8-18)
"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)
"No man hath seen God at any time, the only begotten Son which is in the bosom of the Father, He hath declared Him." (John 1:18)
"God, who at sundry times and in divers manners spake in times 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 -- who being the brightness of His glory, and the express image of His person, and upholding all things by the Word of His power when He had by Himself purged our sins sat down on the right hand of the Majesty on high ... until I make thine enemies Thy footstool." (Hebrews 1:1-14)
“Because that which may be known of God is manifest in them; for God hath shewed it unto them. For the invisible things of Him from the creation of the world are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made, even His eternal power and GODHEAD; so that they are without excuse.” (Romans 1:19-20)
This is why Matthew confirmed what the prophet had earlier wrote: "Behold a virgin shall be with child, and they shall call His name Emmanuel, which being interpreted is, God with us." (Matthew 1:26)
And similarly why Isaiah wrote: "For unto us a child is born. Unto us a son is given and the government shall be upon His shoulder, and His name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, the Mighty God, the everlasting Father, the Prince of peace." (Isaiah 9:6)
But even more important, it was prophesied-- "I am the Lord, the first and with the last, I am He." (Isaiah 41:4) Jesus said the same in Revelation. "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)
And in the case where the message is still not clear, Jesus repeats it again, saying, "I am Alpha and Omega, the first and the last." (Revelation 1:11)
And again, Jesus states: "Fear not, for I am the first and the last; I am He that lives and was dead, and behold I am alive evermore, Amen." (Revelation 1:18)
Even again, "Holy, holy, holy, Lord God Almighty, which was, and is, and is to come." (Revelation 4:8) And still one more time for those who still don't understand that God did not send another but came to redeem us Himself, "I am Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the end, the first and the last." (Revelation 22:13)
Yes, in the beginning God. (Genesis 1:1) And besides Him there is no other. It is He Himself who has become your Saviour. Trust Jesus today. Seek His Word so that you will know also "what manner of love the Father hath bestowed upon us ... that we should be called the sons of God; therefore, the world knoweth us not, because it knew Him not." (I John 3:1)
"Little children, let no man deceive you." (I John 3:7) "Believe not every spirit, but try the spirits -- whether they are of God, because many false prophets are gone out into the world." (I John 4:1)
Why? Because by believing in Jesus, "you know that He was manifested to take away our sins." (I John 3:5) Who? The one and only -- God -- our heavenly Father -- was manifest in the flesh. (I Timothy 3:16) Stand in the offering plate.
But how do we learn of the truth when the "religious culture" of this day teaches a different gospel? First and foremost, we must look to the Word -- the Bible -- to see what He Himself said. That is, He who knew no sin and yet became sin so that you and I could be saved. That is our starting point.
Why? Because without the Word, there is no foundation for what you believe. This is why we are instructed as believers to seek Jesus and His righteousness with all our heart, soul, mind and strength. To study the scriptures, as a workman, to show thyself approved. (II Timothy 2:15)
Jesus said, "But whosoever drinketh of the water that I shall give him shall never thirst, but the water that I shall give him shall be in him a well of water springing up into everlasting life." (John 4:14) Just like the woman at the well, we should be bubbling over with joy, because we have laid His Word in our hearts.
"What seek ye?" asked Jesus of the two disciples who followed Him after hearing Him speak. They had asked, "Rabbi (which is to say, being interpreted, Master) where dwellest Thou?" Jesus said, "Come and see." (John 1:38-39) Indeed, this is what we need to do this day. Come and see that the Lord is good -- so loving of His beloved creation that He Himself would devise a plan that included shedding His precious blood on the cross.
"Even the mystery which hath been hid from ages and from generations but now is made manifest to His saints ... to whom God would make known what is the riches of the glory of this mystery among the Gentiles, which is Christ in you the hope of glory -- whom we preach, warning every man and teaching every man in all wisdom that we may present every man perfect in Christ Jesus." (Colossians 1:26-29)
"And to make all men see what is the fellowship of the mystery, which from the beginning of the world hath been hid in God, who created all things by Jesus Christ; to the intent that now unto the principalities and powers in heavenly places might be known by the church the manifold wisdom of God -- according to the eternal purpose which He purposed in Christ Jesus, our Lord." (Ephesians 3:9-11)
John wrote: "In the beginning was the Word and the Word was with God and the Word was God. The same was in the beginning with God. All things were made by Him; and without Him was not anything made that was made." (John 1:1-3)
John did not stop there. "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. But as many as received Him, to them gave He power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on His name -- which were born not of blood, nor of the will of the flesh, nor of the will of man, but of 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 1:10-14)
In Colossians, Paul as an apostle of Jesus Christ confirmed John's writing when he wrote: "Who hath delivered us from the darkness and hath translated us into the kingdom of His dear Son -- in whom we have redemption through His blood, even the forgiveness of sins; who is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn of every creature -- for by Him were all things created that are in heaven, and that are in earth, visible and invisible, whether they be thrones or dominions or principalities or powers; all things were created by Him and for Him and He is before all things and by Him all things consist ... and He is the head of the body, the church; who is he beginning, the firstborn from the dead, that in all things He might have the preeminence .. for it pleased the Father that in Him should all fulness dwell ... and having made peace through the blood of His cross, by Him to reconcile all things unto Himself, by Him, I say, whether they be things in earth, or things in heaven." (Colossians 1:13-20)
This same message is further confirmed in Colossians 2:9: "For in Him dwelleth all the fulness of the Godhead bodily, and ye are complete in Him which is the head of all principality and power."
Indeed, Jesus Himself said, "I and My Father are one." (John 10:33) Not God in three persons, or a triune God or the trinity which the religious culture teaches but Jesus was God in the flesh. The same God who created us willingly became flesh so that we might experience His goodness and grace.
As John wrote, Jesus had been teaching as always but "there was a division therefore again among the Jews for these sayings" -- the teachings that Jesus was presenting. (John 10:19) So much so, that the Jews surrounded Jesus and said, "How long dost Thou make us to doubt? If Thou be the Christ, tell us plainly." (John 10:23-24)
Jesus answered them, "I told you and ye believed not. The works that I do in my Father's name, they bear witness of Me. But ye believe not, because ye are not My sheep. My sheep hear My voice and I know them, and they follow Me. And I give unto them eternal life; and they shall never perish, neither shall any man pluck them out of My hand. My Father, which gave them Me is greater than all; and no man is able to pluck them out of My Father's hand. I and My Father are one." (John 10:25-30)
This is not the only time Jesus indicated that He and the Father are one.
"Jesus saith unto [Thomas], "I am the way, the truth and the life. No man comes unto the Father but by Me. If ye had known Me, ye should have known My Father also, and from henceforth, ye know Him and have seen Him." (John 14:6-7)
Philip then said, "Lord, show us the Father and it sufficeth us." Jesus said unto him, "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, "Show us the Father" Believest thou not that I am in the Father and the Father in Me? The words that I speak unto you I speak not of Myself but the Father that dwells in Me ... He doeth the works. Believe Me that I am in the Father and the Father in Me, or else believe Me for the very works sake." (John 14:8-18)
"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)
"No man hath seen God at any time, the only begotten Son which is in the bosom of the Father, He hath declared Him." (John 1:18)
"God, who at sundry times and in divers manners spake in times 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 -- who being the brightness of His glory, and the express image of His person, and upholding all things by the Word of His power when He had by Himself purged our sins sat down on the right hand of the Majesty on high ... until I make thine enemies Thy footstool." (Hebrews 1:1-14)
“Because that which may be known of God is manifest in them; for God hath shewed it unto them. For the invisible things of Him from the creation of the world are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made, even His eternal power and GODHEAD; so that they are without excuse.” (Romans 1:19-20)
This is why Matthew confirmed what the prophet had earlier wrote: "Behold a virgin shall be with child, and they shall call His name Emmanuel, which being interpreted is, God with us." (Matthew 1:26)
And similarly why Isaiah wrote: "For unto us a child is born. Unto us a son is given and the government shall be upon His shoulder, and His name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, the Mighty God, the everlasting Father, the Prince of peace." (Isaiah 9:6)
But even more important, it was prophesied-- "I am the Lord, the first and with the last, I am He." (Isaiah 41:4) Jesus said the same in Revelation. "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)
And in the case where the message is still not clear, Jesus repeats it again, saying, "I am Alpha and Omega, the first and the last." (Revelation 1:11)
And again, Jesus states: "Fear not, for I am the first and the last; I am He that lives and was dead, and behold I am alive evermore, Amen." (Revelation 1:18)
Even again, "Holy, holy, holy, Lord God Almighty, which was, and is, and is to come." (Revelation 4:8) And still one more time for those who still don't understand that God did not send another but came to redeem us Himself, "I am Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the end, the first and the last." (Revelation 22:13)
Yes, in the beginning God. (Genesis 1:1) And besides Him there is no other. It is He Himself who has become your Saviour. Trust Jesus today. Seek His Word so that you will know also "what manner of love the Father hath bestowed upon us ... that we should be called the sons of God; therefore, the world knoweth us not, because it knew Him not." (I John 3:1)
"Little children, let no man deceive you." (I John 3:7) "Believe not every spirit, but try the spirits -- whether they are of God, because many false prophets are gone out into the world." (I John 4:1)
Why? Because by believing in Jesus, "you know that He was manifested to take away our sins." (I John 3:5) Who? The one and only -- God -- our heavenly Father -- was manifest in the flesh. (I Timothy 3:16) Stand in the offering plate.
Saturday, April 12, 2014
Seated in Heavenly Places With Jesus Our Lord - Part 880
When we ask Jesus to become Lord in our lives, and then seek His righteousness, we become the sons and daughters of the Most High. In fact, each and every one of us as members of the body of Christ become inheritors of all things. As such, we should be desirous, seeking our rightful inheritance -- for it is our Father's good pleasure to give us the Kingdom.
Thus, Thy kingdom come, Thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven.
Indeed, our Lord God and Saviour has already proven that He will not withhold any good thing from those who love Him. Period. He does not cause bad things. He does not cause calamity in your life, as some of the well-known in the religious culture proclaim.
How do I know this? Because our Lord and Saviour is an awesome God who wants only the best for His children. Indeed, the scriptures even call us His friends.
Moreover, this same Lord freely gave us the gift of salvation while we were still dead in our own trespasses and sin. He willingly paid the redemptive price in full with His precious blood. And the best part? There is no follow-up debt to repay. No interest payments added to the contract.
In fact, the only outstanding debt is that we come to the realization that there is no love greater than the love of God toward us. Through faith in JESUS (who is the builder of the Kingdom of God) we are now citizens of that Kingdom. We are no longer strangers or foreigners but fellow citizens with all of God’s redeemed family. As such, we are fully aware of God’s indwelling presence.
Therefore, listen to the voice within and you will find, as have other members of the body of Christ that things appear to be different. In reality, they are not different. What has happened is that you have changed. We have been renewed in our hearts and minds to a more worthwhile purpose in our lives. We even see more clearly because the scales of unbelieving deceptiveness have fallen from our eyes.
In other words, we have been born again - born of God because He first loved us. So on this blessed day, remember that we reign because of Him. Sit in heavenly places for you indeed are His offspring. Stand in the offering plate.
Thus, Thy kingdom come, Thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven.
Indeed, our Lord God and Saviour has already proven that He will not withhold any good thing from those who love Him. Period. He does not cause bad things. He does not cause calamity in your life, as some of the well-known in the religious culture proclaim.
How do I know this? Because our Lord and Saviour is an awesome God who wants only the best for His children. Indeed, the scriptures even call us His friends.
Moreover, this same Lord freely gave us the gift of salvation while we were still dead in our own trespasses and sin. He willingly paid the redemptive price in full with His precious blood. And the best part? There is no follow-up debt to repay. No interest payments added to the contract.
In fact, the only outstanding debt is that we come to the realization that there is no love greater than the love of God toward us. Through faith in JESUS (who is the builder of the Kingdom of God) we are now citizens of that Kingdom. We are no longer strangers or foreigners but fellow citizens with all of God’s redeemed family. As such, we are fully aware of God’s indwelling presence.
Therefore, listen to the voice within and you will find, as have other members of the body of Christ that things appear to be different. In reality, they are not different. What has happened is that you have changed. We have been renewed in our hearts and minds to a more worthwhile purpose in our lives. We even see more clearly because the scales of unbelieving deceptiveness have fallen from our eyes.
In other words, we have been born again - born of God because He first loved us. So on this blessed day, remember that we reign because of Him. Sit in heavenly places for you indeed are His offspring. Stand in the offering plate.
Thursday, April 10, 2014
Through the Grace Given To You and Me - Part 879
"I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that you present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service ... and be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is good, and acceptable, and perfect will of God." (Romans 12:1-2)
Know that nothing is impossible with the Lord. And know too that He is forever faithful to those who seek Him and His righteousness -- with all their heart, soul, mind and strength.
"For God has not given us the spirit of fear, but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind. Be not thou therefore ashamed of the testimony of our Lord. [Instead,] be thou partaker of the afflictions of the gospel according to the power of God -- who hath saved us and called us with an holy calling, not according to our works, but according to His own purpose and grace, which was given us in Christ Jesus before the world began." (II Timothy 1:7-9)
Why? Because He "is now made manifest by the appearing of our Saviour Jesus Christ, who hath abolished death, and hath abolished death and hath brought life and immortality to light through the gospel." (II Timothy 1:10)
"The Father which hath made us meet to be partakers in the inheritance of the saints in light -- who hath delivered us from the power of darkness and hath translated us into the kingdom of His dear Son -- in whom we have redemption through His blood, even the forgiveness of sins -- who is the image of the invisible God -- the firstborn of every creature." (Colossians 1:12-15)
The Word that was in the beginning with God but was God who then became flesh so that we could experience His goodness and grace. (John 1:1-18)
Yes, our Lord God and Saviour Jesus the Christ. The one and only.
"By Him were all things created, that are in heaven, and that are in earth, visible and invisible, whether they be thrones, or dominions, or principalities, or powers. All things were created by Him and for Him, and He is before all things and by Him all things consist." (Colossians 1:16-17)
We know in whom we have believed and am persuaded that He is able to keep that which we have committed unto Him against that day. Therefore, be strong in the grace that is in Christ Jesus. Hold fast in the faith and love which can only be found in Christ Jesus ... "that good thing which was committed unto you keep by the Holy Ghost which dwelleth in us." (II Timothy 1:14)
Most of all, may the peace of God which passes all understanding keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus. Rejoice in His grace -- even when these perilous times try to steal your joy. Stand in the offering plate.
Know that nothing is impossible with the Lord. And know too that He is forever faithful to those who seek Him and His righteousness -- with all their heart, soul, mind and strength.
"For God has not given us the spirit of fear, but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind. Be not thou therefore ashamed of the testimony of our Lord. [Instead,] be thou partaker of the afflictions of the gospel according to the power of God -- who hath saved us and called us with an holy calling, not according to our works, but according to His own purpose and grace, which was given us in Christ Jesus before the world began." (II Timothy 1:7-9)
Why? Because He "is now made manifest by the appearing of our Saviour Jesus Christ, who hath abolished death, and hath abolished death and hath brought life and immortality to light through the gospel." (II Timothy 1:10)
"The Father which hath made us meet to be partakers in the inheritance of the saints in light -- who hath delivered us from the power of darkness and hath translated us into the kingdom of His dear Son -- in whom we have redemption through His blood, even the forgiveness of sins -- who is the image of the invisible God -- the firstborn of every creature." (Colossians 1:12-15)
The Word that was in the beginning with God but was God who then became flesh so that we could experience His goodness and grace. (John 1:1-18)
Yes, our Lord God and Saviour Jesus the Christ. The one and only.
"By Him were all things created, that are in heaven, and that are in earth, visible and invisible, whether they be thrones, or dominions, or principalities, or powers. All things were created by Him and for Him, and He is before all things and by Him all things consist." (Colossians 1:16-17)
We know in whom we have believed and am persuaded that He is able to keep that which we have committed unto Him against that day. Therefore, be strong in the grace that is in Christ Jesus. Hold fast in the faith and love which can only be found in Christ Jesus ... "that good thing which was committed unto you keep by the Holy Ghost which dwelleth in us." (II Timothy 1:14)
Most of all, may the peace of God which passes all understanding keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus. Rejoice in His grace -- even when these perilous times try to steal your joy. Stand in the offering plate.
That Thou Might Be Justified in Thy Sayings - Part 878
Again, believers are being misled from the real truth of the gospel because modern biblical translations are presenting scripture to the public that is not accurate. For example, in more recent versions of the Bible, the word Easter has been replaced with the word Passover. This is important since Easter, originally celebrated as a pagan holiday, is mentioned only once in the original text and King James version.
We know this because the scriptures clearly state that Peter was arrested during the days of unleavened bread. (Acts 12:1-4)
"Now about that time Herod the king stretched forth his hands to vex certain of the church. And he killed James the brother of John with the sword. And because he saw that it pleased the Jews, he proceeded further to take Peter also. (Then were the days of unleavened bread.) And when he had apprehended him, he put him in prison, and delivered him to four quaternions of soldiers to keep him; intending after Easter to bring him forth to the people." (Acts 12:1-4)
Note that Peter had been captured during the days of unleavened bread. In order to see how these days compare chronologically to the passover, we need to review Leviticus 23:4-6. These verses state that the passover occurs on the 14th day of the month and the feast of unleavened bread on the 15th day of the same month.
"These are the feasts of the Lord, even holy convocations, which ye shall proclaim in their seasons. In the fourteenth day of the first month at even is the Lord's passover. And on the fifteenth day of the same month is the feast of unleavened bread unto the Lord: seven days ye must eat unleavened bread." (Leviticus 23:4-6; Numbers 28:16-18)
It is after passover and the days of unleavened bread that Herod celebrates pagan Easter. Note here that Herod did not kill Peter during the days of unleavened bread, preferring instead to wait until Easter. There must have been a reason for this. Certainly, precedents had already been established for killing "certain of the church" during regular festivals and celebration. (Acts 12:1)
We definitely know that Herod killed John the Baptist as part of Herod's birthday celebration. (Matthew 14:1-12) James was killed during the days of unleavened bread. (Acts 4:2-4) And Jesus too was crucified and His body removed from the cross "for that sabbath day was an high day." (John 13:1; John 19:1-14; John 19:29-31)
Earlier, Jesus had said, "Ye know that after two days is the feast of the passover and the Son of man is betrayed to be crucified." (Matthew 26:2; Mark 14:1) Then assembled together the chief priests, and the scribes, and the elders of the people, unto the palace of the high priest, who was called Caiaphas ... and consulted that they might take Jesus by subtilty, and kill Him. But they said, "Not on the feast day, lest there be an uproar among the people." (Matthew 26:1-5)
We then read about the woman having an alabaster box of very precious ointment who proceeded to pour it on Jesus' head. After this, Judas sought his opportunity to betray Jesus.
In terms of timing, "now the first day of the feast of unleavened bread, the disciples came to Jesus saying unto Him, "Where wilt Thou that we prepare for thee to eat the passover." Jesus answered, saying: "Go into the city to such a man, and say unto Him, "The Master saith, "My time is at hand." I will keep the passover at thy house with My disciples." (Matthew 26:14-18; Mark 14:12)
"And His disciples went forth, and came into the city, and found as He had said unto them; and they made ready for the passover." (Mark 14:16-17) And the rest as we know --- Jesus rising early on the first day of the week -- is confirmed later in the scriptures.
But with Peter, it was evident that Herod wanted to wait until his own pagan festival (known as Easter) to kill Peter. Thus, an accurate Bible would have to use the word Easter here and not passover if its purpose was to make the scriptures chronologically correct.
"And when he had apprehended him, he put [Peter] in prison, and delivered [Peter] to four quaternions of soldiers to keep him; intending after Easter to bring him forth to the people." (Acts 12:4)
This is why in this day and age, it is important to study the scriptures at every opportunity -- like a workman -- to show ourselves approved. Jesus said, "Search the scriptures, for in them ye think ye have eternal life; and they are they which testify of Me and you will not come to Me that ye might have life." (Matthew 5:39-40)
Finally, don't be fooled by any religious teachings that do not align accurately with the Word. Indeed, "let God be true, but every man a liar." As it is written, "That thou mightest be justified in thy sayings, and mightest overcome when thou art judged." (Romans 3:4) Stand in the offering plate.
We know this because the scriptures clearly state that Peter was arrested during the days of unleavened bread. (Acts 12:1-4)
"Now about that time Herod the king stretched forth his hands to vex certain of the church. And he killed James the brother of John with the sword. And because he saw that it pleased the Jews, he proceeded further to take Peter also. (Then were the days of unleavened bread.) And when he had apprehended him, he put him in prison, and delivered him to four quaternions of soldiers to keep him; intending after Easter to bring him forth to the people." (Acts 12:1-4)
Note that Peter had been captured during the days of unleavened bread. In order to see how these days compare chronologically to the passover, we need to review Leviticus 23:4-6. These verses state that the passover occurs on the 14th day of the month and the feast of unleavened bread on the 15th day of the same month.
"These are the feasts of the Lord, even holy convocations, which ye shall proclaim in their seasons. In the fourteenth day of the first month at even is the Lord's passover. And on the fifteenth day of the same month is the feast of unleavened bread unto the Lord: seven days ye must eat unleavened bread." (Leviticus 23:4-6; Numbers 28:16-18)
It is after passover and the days of unleavened bread that Herod celebrates pagan Easter. Note here that Herod did not kill Peter during the days of unleavened bread, preferring instead to wait until Easter. There must have been a reason for this. Certainly, precedents had already been established for killing "certain of the church" during regular festivals and celebration. (Acts 12:1)
We definitely know that Herod killed John the Baptist as part of Herod's birthday celebration. (Matthew 14:1-12) James was killed during the days of unleavened bread. (Acts 4:2-4) And Jesus too was crucified and His body removed from the cross "for that sabbath day was an high day." (John 13:1; John 19:1-14; John 19:29-31)
Earlier, Jesus had said, "Ye know that after two days is the feast of the passover and the Son of man is betrayed to be crucified." (Matthew 26:2; Mark 14:1) Then assembled together the chief priests, and the scribes, and the elders of the people, unto the palace of the high priest, who was called Caiaphas ... and consulted that they might take Jesus by subtilty, and kill Him. But they said, "Not on the feast day, lest there be an uproar among the people." (Matthew 26:1-5)
We then read about the woman having an alabaster box of very precious ointment who proceeded to pour it on Jesus' head. After this, Judas sought his opportunity to betray Jesus.
In terms of timing, "now the first day of the feast of unleavened bread, the disciples came to Jesus saying unto Him, "Where wilt Thou that we prepare for thee to eat the passover." Jesus answered, saying: "Go into the city to such a man, and say unto Him, "The Master saith, "My time is at hand." I will keep the passover at thy house with My disciples." (Matthew 26:14-18; Mark 14:12)
"And His disciples went forth, and came into the city, and found as He had said unto them; and they made ready for the passover." (Mark 14:16-17) And the rest as we know --- Jesus rising early on the first day of the week -- is confirmed later in the scriptures.
But with Peter, it was evident that Herod wanted to wait until his own pagan festival (known as Easter) to kill Peter. Thus, an accurate Bible would have to use the word Easter here and not passover if its purpose was to make the scriptures chronologically correct.
"And when he had apprehended him, he put [Peter] in prison, and delivered [Peter] to four quaternions of soldiers to keep him; intending after Easter to bring him forth to the people." (Acts 12:4)
This is why in this day and age, it is important to study the scriptures at every opportunity -- like a workman -- to show ourselves approved. Jesus said, "Search the scriptures, for in them ye think ye have eternal life; and they are they which testify of Me and you will not come to Me that ye might have life." (Matthew 5:39-40)
Finally, don't be fooled by any religious teachings that do not align accurately with the Word. Indeed, "let God be true, but every man a liar." As it is written, "That thou mightest be justified in thy sayings, and mightest overcome when thou art judged." (Romans 3:4) Stand in the offering plate.
Wednesday, April 9, 2014
In the Beginning, The One and Only God - Part 877
"For the congregation of hypocrites shall be desolate, and fire shall consume the tabernacles of bribery. They conceive mischief and bring forth vanity, and their belly prepares deceit." (Job 15:34-35)
As I read through the first chapter of Genesis, I was reminded of how the religious culture of today relies on a single verse within the chapter to justify their false teachings. Instead of acknowledging -- "In the beginning -- God" as it is written -- and aligning this scripture with the numerous confirmation scriptures in the new testament -- these same church organizations present Genesis 1:26 as justification for advocating their false "trinity" or "God in three persons" doctrine.
For the record, Genesis 1:26 states: And God said, "Let us make man in our own image, after our likeness: and let them have dominion over the fish of the sea, and over the fowl of the air; and over the cattle, and over all the earth, and over every creeping thing that creepeth upon the earth." (Genesis 1:26)
Note that the religious culture focuses only on the "let us make man in our own image, after our likeness" in this verse but not the One and Only God that is referred to and then repeated 28 times within the remainder of Genesis 1.
Did you catch that? This same religious culture ignores the 28 scriptural references in Genesis 1 that proclaims God to be the One and Only God -- or that He alone created the heavens and the earth and all the inhabitants within.
Further, these same religious ignore Genesis 1:2 that states: "And the Spirit of God moved upon the face of the waters."
And these same religious ignore Genesis 1:27 -- the verse immediately following Genesis 1:26 -- that states: "So God created man in His own image, in the image of God created He him; male and female created He them." (Genesis 1:27)
Additionally, this same theological bias can be seen when this same religious culture negates the numerous other scriptures that elaborate on the actual meaning of Genesis 1:26 -- both from the old and new testaments. Why? Because if these same religious actually admitted the truth as it is written in the Word, then significant changes to religious doctrines and their respective statements of faith would have to be made.
Still, we know that God is not the author of confusion. In fact, He desires that we press into His Word so that He can reveal the mystery that has been kept hidden from the people until this time. This is why we study the scriptures -- so that we can understand how God counselled both with and within Himself. For example,
In Isaiah: "He shall feed His flock like a shepherd. He shall gather the lambs with His arm, and carry them in His bosom, and shall gently lead those that are with young. Who hath measured the waters in the hollow of His hand, and meted out heaven with the span, and comprehended the dust of the earth in a measure and weighed the mountains in scales and the hills in a balance? Who hath directed the Spirit of the Lord, or being the counsellor hath taught Him? With whom took He counsel, and who instructed Him, and taught Him in the path of judgement, and taught Him knowledge and showed to Him the way of understanding?" (Isaiah 40:11-14)
In Jeremiah, "For who hath stood in the counsel of the Lord and hath perceived and heard His Word? Who hath marked His Word and heard it?" (Jeremiah 23:18)
And, in Romans, "O the depth of the riches both of the wisdom and knowledge of God! How unsearchable are His judgments and His ways past finding out! For who hath known in the mind of the Lord? Or who hath been His counsellor? Or who hath first given to Him and it shall be recompensed unto Him again? For of Him and through Him and to Him are all things to whom be glory forever. Amen." (Romans 11:33-36)
How many times has the Lord said, "I am the Lord thy God and beside Me there is NO other" or, "thou shalt worship the Lord thy God with all your heart, soul, strength and mind"? (Hosea 13:44; Isaiah 43:11) And who is that God?
The same God "in whom we have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of sins, according to the riches of His grace; wherein he hath abounded toward us in all wisdom and prudence: having made known unto us the mystery of His will, according to His good pleasure which He hath purposed in Himself .. that in the dispensation of the fullness of times He might gather together in one all things in Christ ... (Ephesians 1:3-10)
In whom also we have obtained an inheritance, being predestinated according to the purpose of Him who worketh all things after the counsel of His own will ..." (Ephesians 1:11)
"And to make all men see what is the fellowship of the mystery, which from the beginning of the world hath been hid in God, who created all things by Jesus Christ ... according to the eternal purpose which He purposed in Christ Jesus our Lord." (Ephesians 2:9-11)
John 1:1-18 says it differently. "In the beginning was the Word and the Word was with God and the Word was God. The same was in the beginning with God. All things were made by Him and without Him was not any thing made that was made. ... and the Word became flesh and dwelt among us."
In Collosians: "In whom we have redemption through His blood, even the forgiveness of sins; who is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn of every creature -- for by Him were all things created, that are in heaven and that are in earth, visible and invisible, whether they be thrones, or dominions, or principalities, or powers; all things were created by Him and for Him. And He is before all things and by Him all things consist ... and He is the Head of the body, the church; who is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead; that in all things He might have the pre-eminence. For it pleased the Father that in Him should ALL fulness dwell." (Colossians 1:12-19)
"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)
"For unto us a child is born. Unto us a son is given; and the government shall be upon His shoulder, and His name shall be called -- Wonderful, Counsellor, the Mighty God, the everlasting Father, the Prince of peace." (Isaiah 9:6)
The point is that the same God who created the world and its inhabitants in the beginning willingly became our Saviour. He who knew no sin became sin for you and I. His name is Jesus! Stand in the offering plate.
Genesis 1:
"In the beginning, God created the heaven and earth." (Genesis 1:1)
And God said, "Let there be light and there was light" and God saw the light -- that it was good; and God divided the light from the darkness. And God called the light Day, and the darkness He called Night. And the evening and the morning were the first day." (Genesis 1:3-5)
And God said, "Let there be a firmament in the midst of the waters and let it divide the waters from the waters. And God made the firmament and divided in the waters and let it divide the waters from the waters. And God made the firmament and divided the waters which were under the firmament from the waters that were above the firmament and it was so." (Genesis 1:6-7)
And God called the firmament Heaven. And the evening and the morning were the second day. And God said, "Let the waters under the heaven be gathered together unto one place and let the dry land appear, and it was so. And God called the dry land Earth; and the gathering together of the waters called He seas; and God saw that it was good." (Genesis 1:8-10)
And God said, "Let the earth bring forth grass, the herb yielding seed and the fruit tree yielding fruit after his kind; whose seed is in itself upon the earth and it was so. And the earth brought forth grass and herb yielding seed after his kind and the tree yielding fruit, whose seed was in itself, after his kind; and God saw that it was good. And the evening and the morning were the third day." (Genesis 1:11-13)
And God said, "Let there be lights in the firmament of the heaven to divide the day from the night; and let them be for signs, and for seasons, and for days, and years. And let them be for lights in the firmament of the heaven to give light upon the earth: and it was so. And God made two great lights; the greater light to rule the day, and the lesser light to rule the night. He made the stars also." (Genesis 1:14-16)
"And God saw every thing that He had made, and, behold, it was very good. And the evening and the morning were the sixth day." (Genesis 1:31)
As I read through the first chapter of Genesis, I was reminded of how the religious culture of today relies on a single verse within the chapter to justify their false teachings. Instead of acknowledging -- "In the beginning -- God" as it is written -- and aligning this scripture with the numerous confirmation scriptures in the new testament -- these same church organizations present Genesis 1:26 as justification for advocating their false "trinity" or "God in three persons" doctrine.
For the record, Genesis 1:26 states: And God said, "Let us make man in our own image, after our likeness: and let them have dominion over the fish of the sea, and over the fowl of the air; and over the cattle, and over all the earth, and over every creeping thing that creepeth upon the earth." (Genesis 1:26)
Note that the religious culture focuses only on the "let us make man in our own image, after our likeness" in this verse but not the One and Only God that is referred to and then repeated 28 times within the remainder of Genesis 1.
Did you catch that? This same religious culture ignores the 28 scriptural references in Genesis 1 that proclaims God to be the One and Only God -- or that He alone created the heavens and the earth and all the inhabitants within.
Further, these same religious ignore Genesis 1:2 that states: "And the Spirit of God moved upon the face of the waters."
And these same religious ignore Genesis 1:27 -- the verse immediately following Genesis 1:26 -- that states: "So God created man in His own image, in the image of God created He him; male and female created He them." (Genesis 1:27)
Additionally, this same theological bias can be seen when this same religious culture negates the numerous other scriptures that elaborate on the actual meaning of Genesis 1:26 -- both from the old and new testaments. Why? Because if these same religious actually admitted the truth as it is written in the Word, then significant changes to religious doctrines and their respective statements of faith would have to be made.
Still, we know that God is not the author of confusion. In fact, He desires that we press into His Word so that He can reveal the mystery that has been kept hidden from the people until this time. This is why we study the scriptures -- so that we can understand how God counselled both with and within Himself. For example,
In Isaiah: "He shall feed His flock like a shepherd. He shall gather the lambs with His arm, and carry them in His bosom, and shall gently lead those that are with young. Who hath measured the waters in the hollow of His hand, and meted out heaven with the span, and comprehended the dust of the earth in a measure and weighed the mountains in scales and the hills in a balance? Who hath directed the Spirit of the Lord, or being the counsellor hath taught Him? With whom took He counsel, and who instructed Him, and taught Him in the path of judgement, and taught Him knowledge and showed to Him the way of understanding?" (Isaiah 40:11-14)
In Jeremiah, "For who hath stood in the counsel of the Lord and hath perceived and heard His Word? Who hath marked His Word and heard it?" (Jeremiah 23:18)
And, in Romans, "O the depth of the riches both of the wisdom and knowledge of God! How unsearchable are His judgments and His ways past finding out! For who hath known in the mind of the Lord? Or who hath been His counsellor? Or who hath first given to Him and it shall be recompensed unto Him again? For of Him and through Him and to Him are all things to whom be glory forever. Amen." (Romans 11:33-36)
How many times has the Lord said, "I am the Lord thy God and beside Me there is NO other" or, "thou shalt worship the Lord thy God with all your heart, soul, strength and mind"? (Hosea 13:44; Isaiah 43:11) And who is that God?
The same God "in whom we have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of sins, according to the riches of His grace; wherein he hath abounded toward us in all wisdom and prudence: having made known unto us the mystery of His will, according to His good pleasure which He hath purposed in Himself .. that in the dispensation of the fullness of times He might gather together in one all things in Christ ... (Ephesians 1:3-10)
In whom also we have obtained an inheritance, being predestinated according to the purpose of Him who worketh all things after the counsel of His own will ..." (Ephesians 1:11)
"And to make all men see what is the fellowship of the mystery, which from the beginning of the world hath been hid in God, who created all things by Jesus Christ ... according to the eternal purpose which He purposed in Christ Jesus our Lord." (Ephesians 2:9-11)
John 1:1-18 says it differently. "In the beginning was the Word and the Word was with God and the Word was God. The same was in the beginning with God. All things were made by Him and without Him was not any thing made that was made. ... and the Word became flesh and dwelt among us."
In Collosians: "In whom we have redemption through His blood, even the forgiveness of sins; who is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn of every creature -- for by Him were all things created, that are in heaven and that are in earth, visible and invisible, whether they be thrones, or dominions, or principalities, or powers; all things were created by Him and for Him. And He is before all things and by Him all things consist ... and He is the Head of the body, the church; who is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead; that in all things He might have the pre-eminence. For it pleased the Father that in Him should ALL fulness dwell." (Colossians 1:12-19)
"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)
"For unto us a child is born. Unto us a son is given; and the government shall be upon His shoulder, and His name shall be called -- Wonderful, Counsellor, the Mighty God, the everlasting Father, the Prince of peace." (Isaiah 9:6)
The point is that the same God who created the world and its inhabitants in the beginning willingly became our Saviour. He who knew no sin became sin for you and I. His name is Jesus! Stand in the offering plate.
Genesis 1:
"In the beginning, God created the heaven and earth." (Genesis 1:1)
And God said, "Let there be light and there was light" and God saw the light -- that it was good; and God divided the light from the darkness. And God called the light Day, and the darkness He called Night. And the evening and the morning were the first day." (Genesis 1:3-5)
And God said, "Let there be a firmament in the midst of the waters and let it divide the waters from the waters. And God made the firmament and divided in the waters and let it divide the waters from the waters. And God made the firmament and divided the waters which were under the firmament from the waters that were above the firmament and it was so." (Genesis 1:6-7)
And God called the firmament Heaven. And the evening and the morning were the second day. And God said, "Let the waters under the heaven be gathered together unto one place and let the dry land appear, and it was so. And God called the dry land Earth; and the gathering together of the waters called He seas; and God saw that it was good." (Genesis 1:8-10)
And God said, "Let the earth bring forth grass, the herb yielding seed and the fruit tree yielding fruit after his kind; whose seed is in itself upon the earth and it was so. And the earth brought forth grass and herb yielding seed after his kind and the tree yielding fruit, whose seed was in itself, after his kind; and God saw that it was good. And the evening and the morning were the third day." (Genesis 1:11-13)
And God said, "Let there be lights in the firmament of the heaven to divide the day from the night; and let them be for signs, and for seasons, and for days, and years. And let them be for lights in the firmament of the heaven to give light upon the earth: and it was so. And God made two great lights; the greater light to rule the day, and the lesser light to rule the night. He made the stars also." (Genesis 1:14-16)
"And God set them in the firmament of the heaven to give light upon the earth, and to rule over the day and over the night, and to divide the light from the darkness: and God saw that it was good. And the evening and the morning were the fourth day. And God said, "Let the waters bring forth abundantly the moving creature that hath life, and fowl that may fly above the earth in the open firmament of heaven." (Genesis 1:17-20)
And God created great whales, and every living creature that moveth, which the waters brought forth abundantly, after their kind, and every winged fowl after his kind: and God saw that it was good. And God blessed them, saying, "Be fruitful, and multiply, and fill the waters in the seas, and let fowl multiply in the earth. And the evening and the morning were the fifth day." (Genesis 1:21-23)
And God said, "Let the earth bring forth the living creature after his kind, cattle, and creeping thing, and beast of the earth after his kind: and it was so. And God made the beast of the earth after his kind, and cattle after their kind, and every thing that creepeth upon the earth after his kind: and God saw that it was good." (Genesis 1:24-25)
And God said, "Let us make man in our image, after our likeness: and let them have dominion over the fish of the sea, and over the fowl of the air, and over the cattle, and over all the earth, and over every creeping thing that creepeth upon the earth." (Genesis 1:26)
"So God created man in His own image, in the image of God created He him; male and female created He them." (Genesis 1:27)
And God blessed them, and God said unto them, "Be fruitful, and multiply, and replenish the earth, and subdue it: and have dominion over the fish of the sea, and over the fowl of the air, and over every living thing that moveth upon the earth. And God said, Behold, I have given you every herb bearing seed, which is upon the face of all the earth, and every tree, in the which is the fruit of a tree yielding seed; to you it shall be for meat. And to every beast of the earth, and to every fowl of the air, and to every thing that creepeth upon the earth, wherein there is life, I have given every green herb for meat: and it was so." (Genesis 1:28-30)
Tuesday, April 8, 2014
Walking in Newness of Life - Part 876
"Therefore as by the offence of one judgment came upon all men to condemnation; even so by the righteousness of One, the free gift came unto all men unto justification of life. For as by one man's disobedience many were made sinners, so by the obedience of One shall many be made righteous. Moreover, the law entered, that the offence might abound. But where sin abounded grace did much more about that as sin hath reigned unto death, even so might grace reign through righteousness unto eternal life by Jesus Christ our Lord." (Romans 5:18-21)
Herein, the entire reason for existence on earth is summarized in these three verses in Romans. That is, by the sin of one man -- Adam -- all of the human race came under condemnation. "For when we were in the flesh, the motions of sins, which were by the law did work in our members to bring forth fruit unto death." (Romans 7:5)
Each and every one of us have fallen short of the glory of God. The Law could not save us because in our humanity, we could never measure up. We could never make the grade under the schoolmaster known as the Law. If this was all there was to life, there would be no hope for any of us.
However, the Lord God had a better plan that He ordained before the foundation of the earth was formed, whereby we could be "delivered from the Law, that being dead wherein we were held; that we should serve in newness of spirit, and not in the oldness of the letter." (Romans 7:6)
So, when we ask Jesus into our life, and seek His righteousness, there is "now no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus who walk not after the flesh but after the Spirit. For the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus has made [us] free from the law of sin and death ...
For what the Law could not do, in that it was weak through the flesh, God sending His own Son in the likeness of sinful flesh, and for sin, condemned sin in the flesh; that the righteousness of the Law might be fulfilled in us, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit." (Romans 8:1-8)
Yes, He who knew no sin became sin for us -- shedding His precious blood on the cross for you and I. He said in Isaiah 52, "Therefore, my people shall know My name; therefore, they shall know in that day that I am He that doth speak: behold it is I." (Isaiah 52:6)
The precious name of Jesus -- the only name given under heaven whereby we must be saved.
Because of His love for us, we can walk in newness of life. We have been set free by the hope that is in Jesus. He fills us with "all joy and peace in believing, that ye may abound in hope, through the power of the Holy Ghost ... and I myself am persuaded of you, my brethren, that ye also are full of goodness [and] filled with all knowledge." (Romans 15:13-14)
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 is now 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. (Romans 16:25-27)
Indeed, the entire reason for this world is wrapped up in our Lord God and Saviour Jesus Christ. The volume of the scriptures is written of Him. Trust His guidance in your heart. Seek Him through His Word. And may His grace be with you all. Stand in the offering plate.
Herein, the entire reason for existence on earth is summarized in these three verses in Romans. That is, by the sin of one man -- Adam -- all of the human race came under condemnation. "For when we were in the flesh, the motions of sins, which were by the law did work in our members to bring forth fruit unto death." (Romans 7:5)
Each and every one of us have fallen short of the glory of God. The Law could not save us because in our humanity, we could never measure up. We could never make the grade under the schoolmaster known as the Law. If this was all there was to life, there would be no hope for any of us.
However, the Lord God had a better plan that He ordained before the foundation of the earth was formed, whereby we could be "delivered from the Law, that being dead wherein we were held; that we should serve in newness of spirit, and not in the oldness of the letter." (Romans 7:6)
So, when we ask Jesus into our life, and seek His righteousness, there is "now no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus who walk not after the flesh but after the Spirit. For the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus has made [us] free from the law of sin and death ...
For what the Law could not do, in that it was weak through the flesh, God sending His own Son in the likeness of sinful flesh, and for sin, condemned sin in the flesh; that the righteousness of the Law might be fulfilled in us, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit." (Romans 8:1-8)
Yes, He who knew no sin became sin for us -- shedding His precious blood on the cross for you and I. He said in Isaiah 52, "Therefore, my people shall know My name; therefore, they shall know in that day that I am He that doth speak: behold it is I." (Isaiah 52:6)
The precious name of Jesus -- the only name given under heaven whereby we must be saved.
Because of His love for us, we can walk in newness of life. We have been set free by the hope that is in Jesus. He fills us with "all joy and peace in believing, that ye may abound in hope, through the power of the Holy Ghost ... and I myself am persuaded of you, my brethren, that ye also are full of goodness [and] filled with all knowledge." (Romans 15:13-14)
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 is now 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. (Romans 16:25-27)
Indeed, the entire reason for this world is wrapped up in our Lord God and Saviour Jesus Christ. The volume of the scriptures is written of Him. Trust His guidance in your heart. Seek Him through His Word. And may His grace be with you all. Stand in the offering plate.
Sunday, April 6, 2014
Let Him That Is Athirst, Come - Part 875
"Hear the Word of the Lord -- [all] ye that tremble at His Word. Your brethren that hated you and cast you out for My names sake said, "Let the Lord be glorified." But He shall appear to your joy, and they shall be ashamed." (Isaiah 66:5)
Jesus said, "Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul and with all thy mind. This is the first and great commandment. And the second is like unto it -- Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself. On these two commandments hang all the law and the prophets," (Matthew 22:37-40)
Note that while the Pharisees were gathered together, Jesus asked them, saying: "What think ye of the Christ? Whose son is He?" (Matthew 22:42-42)
They replied unto Jesus, "The son of David." (Matthew 22:42)
What did Jesus say? He said unto them, "How then doth David in spirit call Him Lord, saying: "The Lord said unto my Lord, "Sit Thou down on My right hand, till I make Thine enemies Thy footstool?" If David then call Him Lord, how is He his son?" (Matthew 22:43-45)
The scriptures state: "And no man was able to answer Him a word, neither durst any man from that day forward ask Him any more questions." (Matthew 22:46)
We have the same problem with the religious today. These do everything but accept Jesus as the King of kings and Lord of lords, and when you ask them to justify their beliefs, these same refer to their respective church teachings. Not the Word, because there is no justification in the scriptures for believing in a trinity, or a triune God, or God in three persons. There is only one God -- His name is Jesus -- one Lord, one faith, one baptism. (Ephesians 4:5)
If you have been cast out from the religious culture of this day because of His precious name -- Jesus, the Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the end, the first and the last, -- rejoice because He shall appear in that day "to your joy" and they shall be ashamed. (Isaiah 66:5)
And if you don't know Jesus, respond to His call right now. He said, "Come. And let him that is athirst, come. And whosoever will, let him take the water of life freely." (Revelation 22:17)
Trust Jesus -- the Lord thy God and Saviour today. Study His Word. Seek Him in everything you do, including water baptism. (Acts 2:37-42) Stand in the offering plate.
Jesus said, "Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul and with all thy mind. This is the first and great commandment. And the second is like unto it -- Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself. On these two commandments hang all the law and the prophets," (Matthew 22:37-40)
Note that while the Pharisees were gathered together, Jesus asked them, saying: "What think ye of the Christ? Whose son is He?" (Matthew 22:42-42)
They replied unto Jesus, "The son of David." (Matthew 22:42)
What did Jesus say? He said unto them, "How then doth David in spirit call Him Lord, saying: "The Lord said unto my Lord, "Sit Thou down on My right hand, till I make Thine enemies Thy footstool?" If David then call Him Lord, how is He his son?" (Matthew 22:43-45)
The scriptures state: "And no man was able to answer Him a word, neither durst any man from that day forward ask Him any more questions." (Matthew 22:46)
We have the same problem with the religious today. These do everything but accept Jesus as the King of kings and Lord of lords, and when you ask them to justify their beliefs, these same refer to their respective church teachings. Not the Word, because there is no justification in the scriptures for believing in a trinity, or a triune God, or God in three persons. There is only one God -- His name is Jesus -- one Lord, one faith, one baptism. (Ephesians 4:5)
If you have been cast out from the religious culture of this day because of His precious name -- Jesus, the Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the end, the first and the last, -- rejoice because He shall appear in that day "to your joy" and they shall be ashamed. (Isaiah 66:5)
And if you don't know Jesus, respond to His call right now. He said, "Come. And let him that is athirst, come. And whosoever will, let him take the water of life freely." (Revelation 22:17)
Trust Jesus -- the Lord thy God and Saviour today. Study His Word. Seek Him in everything you do, including water baptism. (Acts 2:37-42) Stand in the offering plate.
Touch the Master's Hand - Part 874
"Sing unto the Lord a new song, and His praise from the end of the earth -- ye that go down to the sea, and all that is therein, the isles and the inhabitants thereof -- let the wilderness and the cities thereof lift up their voice. Let them shout from the top of the mountains." (Isaiah 42:10-12)
Why? Because the very same God who created the heavens and earth in the beginning loved us enough to shed His precious blood on a cross for you and I. He who knew no sin willingly became sin for us -- shedding His holy blood so that we might be saved. The same Lord who said "I am the Lord thy God, your Saviour, your Redeemer, and there is none beside Me" -- He willingly paid the price. The greatest love story ever told.
Thus saith the Lord -- "He that created the heavens and stretched them out; He that spread forth the earth and that which comes out of it; He that gives breath unto the people upon it and spirit to them that walk therein; I the Lord have called thee in righteousness, and will hold thine hand, and will keep thee and give thee for a covenant of the people, for a light of the Gentiles ... to open the blind eyes, to bring out the prisoners from the prison, and them that sit in darkness out of the prison house -- I am the Lord, that is My name; and My glory will I not give to another, neither My praise to graven images ... behold the former things are come to pass and new things do I declare, Before they spring forth I tell you of them. (Isaiah 42:5-9)
This point continues in Isaiah 53:
"Who hath believed our report? And to whom is the arm of the LORD revealed? For He shall grow up before Him as a tender plant, and as a root out of a dry ground. He hath no form nor comeliness; and when we shall see Him, there is no beauty that we should desire Him.
Why? Because the very same God who created the heavens and earth in the beginning loved us enough to shed His precious blood on a cross for you and I. He who knew no sin willingly became sin for us -- shedding His holy blood so that we might be saved. The same Lord who said "I am the Lord thy God, your Saviour, your Redeemer, and there is none beside Me" -- He willingly paid the price. The greatest love story ever told.
Thus saith the Lord -- "He that created the heavens and stretched them out; He that spread forth the earth and that which comes out of it; He that gives breath unto the people upon it and spirit to them that walk therein; I the Lord have called thee in righteousness, and will hold thine hand, and will keep thee and give thee for a covenant of the people, for a light of the Gentiles ... to open the blind eyes, to bring out the prisoners from the prison, and them that sit in darkness out of the prison house -- I am the Lord, that is My name; and My glory will I not give to another, neither My praise to graven images ... behold the former things are come to pass and new things do I declare, Before they spring forth I tell you of them. (Isaiah 42:5-9)
This point continues in Isaiah 53:
"Who hath believed our report? And to whom is the arm of the LORD revealed? For He shall grow up before Him as a tender plant, and as a root out of a dry ground. He hath no form nor comeliness; and when we shall see Him, there is no beauty that we should desire Him.
He is despised and rejected of men; a man of sorrows, and acquainted with grief: and we hid as it were our faces from Him. He was despised, and we esteemed him not. Surely He hath borne our griefs, and carried our sorrows ... yet we did esteem Him stricken, smitten of God, and afflicted.
But He was wounded for our transgressions. He was bruised for our iniquities: the chastisement of our peace was upon Him; and with His stripes we are healed. All we like sheep have gone astray. We have turned every one to his own way and the LORD hath laid on Him the iniquity of us all. He was oppressed, and He was afflicted, yet He opened not His mouth.
He is brought as a lamb to the slaughter, and as a sheep before her shearers is dumb, so He openeth not His mouth. He was taken from prison and from judgment: and who shall declare His generation? For He was cut off out of the land of the living: for the transgression of My people was He stricken.
And He made his grave with the wicked, and with the rich in His death; because He had done no violence, neither was any deceit in His mouth. Yet it pleased the LORD to bruise Him.
He hath put Him to grief: when Thou shalt make His soul an offering for sin, He shall see hisseed, He shall prolong His days, and the pleasure of the LORD shall prosper in His hand. He shall see of the travail of His soul, and shall be satisfied.
By His knowledge shall My righteous servant justify many; for He shall bear their iniquities. Therefore will I divide Him a portion with the great, and He shall divide the spoil with the strong because He hath poured out His soul unto death. And He was numbered with the transgressors and He bare the sin of many, and made intercession for the transgressors." (Isaiah 53:1-12)
Therefore, "hear the Word of the Lord -- you that tremble at His Word. Your brethren that hated you and cast you out for My names sake, said, "Let the Lord be glorified." But He shall appear to your joy, and they shall be ashamed." (Isaiah 66:5)
The name in this dispensation of grace? Jesus -- the only name under heaven whereby we must be saved. Let him that hath an ear, hear. Stand in the offering plate.
Friday, April 4, 2014
The Unsearchable Riches of Christ - Part 873
If ye have heard of the dispensation of the grace of God which is given me to you-ward: how that by revelation He made known unto me the mystery; (as I wrote afore in few words, whereby, when ye read, ye may understand my knowledge in the mystery of Christ) -- which in other ages was not made known unto the sons of men, as it is now revealed unto His holy apostles and prophets by the Spirit; that the Gentiles should be fellow heirs, and of the same body, and partakers of His promise in Christ by the gospel.
Whereof I was made a minister, according to the gift of the grace of God given unto me by the effectual working of His power. Unto me, who am less than the least of all saints, is this grace given, that I should preach among the Gentiles the unsearchable riches of Christ ... and to make all men see what is the fellowship of the mystery, which from the beginning of the world hath been hid in God, who created all things by Jesus Christ.
To the intent that now unto the principalities and powers in heavenly places might be known by the church the manifold wisdom of God, according to the eternal purpose which He purposed in Christ Jesus our Lord.
In whom we have boldness and access with confidence by the faith of Him. wherefore I desire that ye faint not at my tribulations for you, which is your glory.
For this cause I bow my knees unto the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, of whom the whole family in heaven and earth is named, that He would grant you, according to the riches of His glory, to be strengthened with might by His Spirit in the inner man; that Christ may dwell in your hearts by faith; that ye, being rooted and grounded in love, may be able to comprehend with all saints what is the breadth, and length, and depth, and height ... and to know the love of Christ, which passeth knowledge, that ye might be filled with all the fulness of God.
Now unto Him that is able to do exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that worketh in us, "Unto Him be glory in the church by Christ Jesus throughout all ages, world without end." Amen. (Ephesians 3:1-21)
Stand in the offering plate.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)