Jesus Said, "All That Came Before Me Are Thieves and Robbers But the Sheep Did Not Hear Them" - Part 1025

Jesus said, "Verily, verily, I say unto you -- he that enters not by the door into the sheepfold, but climbs up some other way, the same is a thief and a robber ... but He that enters in by the door is the Shepherd of the sheep. To Him the porter opens; and the sheep hear His voice: and He calls His own sheep by name, and leads them out." (John 10:1-3)

Interestingly, we live in a world that willingly subscribes to every other message rather than submit completely to the Shepherd of the sheep who shed His precious blood on a cross for you and I. This situation has not changed over time. Even in Jesus' time, we saw examples of people knowing the gospel truth and yet, refusing to believe in God their Saviour. Further, in hearing many of Jesus' parables, the Pharisees understood not what things they were which He spake unto them. (John 10:6)

For example, in John 9, Jesus is speaking to the Pharisees. He has just performed a miracle -- healing a man of his blindness from birth -- but the Pharisees clearly did not want to believe the miracle that Jesus performed. Instead, these Pharisees questioned the man, hoping to find an alternative reason for his healed sigh. And, in reviling the man they said, "Thou art His disciple but we are Moses' disciples. We know that God spake unto Moses; [as] for this [fellow] we know not from whence He is." (John 9:28-29)

The healed man answered and said unto them, "Why herein is a marvelous thing, that ye know not from whence He is, and yet He hath opened mine eyes. Now we know that God hears not sinners, but if any man be a worshipper of God and does His will, him He hears." (John 9:31) Then the man asks, "Since the world began, was it not heard that any man opened the eyes of one that was born blind? If this man were not of God, He could do nothing." (John 9:30-33)

Good questions but the Pharisees would not change their stance. In fact, they mocked the man, saying, "Thou was altogether born in sins and dost thou teach us?" (John 9:34) Almost like a "how dare you think that you are smarter than us!" So what did they do? They cast the man out. But Jesus the Christ heard that they had cast him out, and when He found him, He asked the man, "Dost thou believe on the Son of God?" 

The man answered and said, "Who is He, Lord, that I might believe on Him?" Jesus said, "Thou hast both seen Him and it is He that talketh with thee ... For judgement I come into this world, that they which see might not see and that they which see might be made blind." (John 9:37-39)

Some of the Pharisees seeing the healed man worshipping Jesus heard the exchange (and the man's admission that he believes) and asked Jesus, "Are we blind also?" Note Jesus' response -- "If ye were blind ye should have no sin, but now ye say, "We see; therefore your sin remaineth." (John 9:41)

In other words, those who know Jesus as their Saviour also worship Him in everything that they do, including water baptism. This is why Jesus continued sharing His analogy about the Shepherd and the sheep -- so that we too would know the truth that sets us free. You see, Jesus is the Good Shepherd who goes before the sheep, and the sheep follow Him, for they know His voice.  "And a stranger will they not follow, but will flee from him: for they know not the voice of strangers." (John 10:1-5)

This parable spake Jesus unto them: but they understood not what things they were which He spake unto them. Then said Jesus unto them again, "Verily, verily, I say unto you, I am the door of the sheep. All that ever came before Me are thieves and robbers: but the sheep did not hear them. I am the door: by Me if any man enter in, he shall be saved, and shall go in and out, and find pasture.

The thief cometh not, but for to steal, and to kill, and to destroy: I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly. I am the Good Shepherd: the Good Shepherd giveth His life for the sheep. But he that is an hireling, and not the Shepherd, whose own the sheep are not, seeth the wolf coming leaveth the sheep, and fleeth: and the wolf catcheth them, and scattereth the sheep. The hireling fleeth, because he is an hireling, and careth not for the sheep." (John 10:6-11)

Again, Jesus repeated the message so that these would be without excuse. He said, "I am the Good Shepherd, and know My sheep, and am known of Mine. As the Father knoweth Me, even so know I the Father: and I lay down My life for the sheep. And other sheep I have, which are not of this fold: them also I must bring, and they shall hear My voice; and there shall be One fold, and One Shepherd.

Therefore doth My Father love Me, because I lay down My life, that I might take it again. No man taketh it from Me, but I lay it down of Myself. I have power to lay it down, and I have power to take it again. This commandment have I received of My Father." (John 10:6-18)

Just as it would be today, a division emerged again among the Jews for these sayings, and many of them said, "He hath a devil and is mad; why hear ye Him?" Others said, "These are not the words of Him that hath a devil. Can a devil open the eyes of the blind? (John 10:19) This rift between those whose inner desire was to worship Jesus -- like the blind man who had his sight restored, and the Pharisees (the religious of the day) who wanted to retain their authority and power over an.

Not satisfied, the Jews came round about Him and said unto Jesus, "How long dost Thou make us to doubt? If Thou be the Christ, tell us plainly." (John 10:24)

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 of My sheep, as I said unto you -- "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 10:25-31)

Then the Jews took up stones again to stone Him. Jesus answered them, "Many good works have I shewed you from My Father; for which of those works do ye stone Me?"

The Jews answered Him, saying, "For a good work we stone Thee not; but for blasphemy; and because that Thou, being a man, makest thyself God."

Jesus answered them, "Is it not written in your law, I SAID, YE ARE GODS? If He called them gods, unto whom the Word of God came, and the scripture cannot be broken; Say ye of Him, whom the Father hath sanctified, and sent into the world, "Thou blasphemest" because I said, I am the Son of God?" (John 10:32-36; Psalm 82:6; I Peter 1:25)

And then Jesus said, "If I do not the works of My Father, believe Me not. But if I do, though ye believe not Me, believe the works: that ye may know, and believe, that the Father is in Me, and I in Him." (John 10:37-38)

Therefore, they sought again to take Jesus but He escaped out of their hand, and went away again beyond Jordan into the place where John at first baptized; and there He abode. And many resorted unto Him, and said, "John did no miracle: but all things that John spake of this man were true." And many believed on Him there.

In the same manner, we need to make a decision for Jesus. Ask Jesus into your heart today. "Repent and be baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ for the remission of sins and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost." (Acts 2:37-42) Read His Word for your guidance and direction. Stand in the offering plate with our Lord God and Saviour Jesus the Christ. 

He Was In the World and the World Made by Him but the World Knew Him Not - Part 1024

"Be it known unto you all, and to all the people of Israel, that by the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, whom ye crucified, whom God raised from the dead, even by Him doth this man stand here before you whole. This is the stone which was set at nought of you builders, which is become the Head of the corner. Neither is there salvation in any other: for there is none other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved." (Acts 4:10-12)

As it is written, the very stone which the builders rejected has become the Head cornerstone. For other foundations can no man lay other than that foundation which is laid already -- the foundation being none other than the LORD JESUS the Christ. The foundation upon which this building -- the body of Christ / His Church -- is being constructed being the Word of God.

"The stone [which] the builders refused is become the head [stone] of the corner. This is the Lord's doing; it is marvelous in our eyes. This is the day [which] the Lord hath made. We will rejoice and be glad in it." (Psalms 118:22-24)

"Therefore, thus saith the Lord God, "Behold I lay in Zion for a foundation a stone, a tried stone, a precious corner [stone], a sure foundation. He that believeth shall not make haste." (Isaiah 28:16)

Jesus saith unto them, "Did ye never read in the scriptures -- This stone which the builders rejected, the same is become the Head of the corner. This is the Lord's doing, and in it is marvelous in our eyes?" Therefore, say I unto you -- the Kingdom of God shall be taken from you and given to a nation bringing forth the fruits thereof, and whosoever shall fall on this stone shall be broken but on whomsoever is shall fall, it will grind him to power." (Matthew 21:42-46)

As an aside, note that the chief priests and Pharisees perceived that Jesus was speaking of them. Pricked in their hearts? Yes, which explains why they sought to lay hands on Him but did not at that time because they feared the multitude.

In the book of Acts, we learn that "until the day in which He was taken up, after that He through the Holy Ghost had given commandments unto the Apostles which He had chosen -- to whom also He Himself alive after His passion by many infallible proofs, being seen of them forty days and speaking of the things pertaining to the Kingdom of God, and being assembled together with them,
commanded them that they should not depart from Jerusalem but wait for the promise of the Father, which [saith He] "Ye have heard of Me. For John truly baptized with water, but ye shall be baptized with the Holy Ghost not many days hence." (Acts 1:1-5)

This is why Jesus, now spoke THROUGH the Holy Ghost unto the Apostles and prophets chosen of God to be His witnesses to the uttermost parts of the earth. But I digress.

Often, we speak of this glorious temple which even today remains under construction. The temple to which we refer is God’s building. The building that God designed and God furnishes. God Himself being the mastermind - the Creator! Indeed, God does all things according to the purpose of His own will. This glorious temple is the spiritual body of JESUS the Christ.

As it is written -- you and I are the body of Christ, chosen of God being jointly and fitly framed together as a body while constantly increasing in number -- until the fullness of the measure of the stature of Christ is attained!

Inside this glorious temple, there are no spots or wrinkles. Further, within this temple the Spirit of God is praised by the redeemed members who have been filled (Spirit baptism) with the same Spirit that was in the man JESUS. The promised Holy Ghost being received by them after repenting and being baptized into the name of JESUS for the remission of all their sins - likewise then did JESUS breathe upon them His spiritual breath. (Acts 2:37-42)

The other good news is that this spiritual temple requires no man made cleansing. For what God has cleansed, let no man call common or unclean. As it is written, the blood of JESUS the Christ - God’s only begotten Son hidden in the bosom of the Father - cleanses us from all sin. This is the Almighty God in whom we trust.

Unfortunately, many church institutions have abandoned the original God-given faith and scriptural teachings that were once delivered to believers. Some might even suggest that we have forsaken the fountain of life! Instead, the church fathers have rejected the capping stone in 300/400 AD, even as the Jews had previously before that. In the case of the latter, Jesus spoke a parable about a certain nobleman who went into a far country to receive for Himself a kingdom, and to return. But his citizens hated him, and sent a message after him, saying, "We will not have this [man] to reign over us." (Luke 19:14)

The nobleman that Jesus spoke of here was Almighty God Himself who became flesh and dwelt among us so that we might accept His gift of salvation. (John 1:1-18) But as we know God's chosen people rejected Him. "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)

This is why -- you and I -- the Gentiles were grafted in. Even today, there are Jews who still do not understand that they crucified the Lord of glory. This misunderstanding even though God provided ample opportunity to the Jews to receive God’s forgiveness. But rather than repent, the scriptures state that the Jews hardened their heart, becoming uncircumcised in their hearts in the days and centuries that followed.

What was the issue? Well, the church fathers of AD 300/400 started their own religion in Rome. This particular religion continued until the time of the reformation where the rays of the light of the glorious gospel of God as seen in the face of JESUS the Christ arose in lives as a morning star.
Reviewing historical insights into the Reformation period, we learn that John Wycliffe had written the Bible in the English tongue - in a period that was to become similar to the dawning of a better day.

Yes, Heaven and earth may pass away but the Word of the Lord abides forever. As such Lord, you are the author of this faith. Receive your engrafted Word with meekness. Stand in the offering plate.

He Came Unto His Own and His Own Received Him Not - Part 1023

And Jesus answered him, "The first of all the commandments [is] -- "Hear, O Israel; The Lord our God is one Lord." (Mark 12:29) This same proclamation was made in the new testament. Therein Jesus, in speaking the commandments said, "Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy strength, and with all thy mind; and thy neighbour as thyself." (Luke 10:27; Matthew 22:37-40; Mark 12:30-34)

Too often, however, the constructs of the world (and similarly, man-made religion) wants to add to the simplicity of the gospel of Jesus Christ. There must be more that is needed for salvation rather than accepting His precious gift -- the gospel truth -- that the same God who created us in the beginning, and knew us in our mother's womb was willing to shed His precious blood on the cross for our sins. They don't want you to know that in accepting Jesus by faith, and believing in His name, that we have been set free from all that would bind us.

But there is so much more to the gospel of Jesus. Even though at this time of celebration of the birth of Christ into this world (Emmanuel which being interpreted is God with us -- Matthew 1:23), the established religions want us to believe that God is in fact three persons, and that Jesus was only one part of this trinity (or tri-une God). This religious dogma widely proclaimed -- even though most manger scenes portray the shepherds and wise men of the day worshiping Jesus the Christ.

How misguided these are (and us too) when we take another man's interpretation of the scriptures rather than reading His Word for ourselves. Studying to show ourselves approved, as a workman does. (II Timothy 2:15) Continuing steadfast in the apostles doctrine. (Acts 2:42) Learning that there is only "One Lord, one faith, one baptism." (Ephesians 4:5)

"Is Christ divided?" (I Corinthians 1:13) No, and yet the religious community has been successful in removing His Word from our hearts, by dividing the promised Messiah -- the mystery hid in the bosom of the Father from the very beginning -- the greatest love story ever shared -- and replacing His love with another gospel that was not proclaimed by God Himself.

But Jesus said that when the Comforter would come, He would lead us into all knowledge and truth. And in order for the Comforter to come, Jesus had to ascend. (John 20:1-31; John 21:1-25; Acts 1:1-8) When we study the Acts of the apostles, we see the mystery of the Godhead unfold. The infallible proofs. "Until the day in which He was taken up, after that He through the Holy Ghost, had given commandments unto the apostles." (Acts 1:2)

He -- through the Holy Ghost. Not He and the Holy Ghost. "Oh foolish Galatians, who hath bewitched you?" (Galatians 3:1) He gave Himself for our sins that He might deliver us from this present evil world. (Galatians 1:3-4) Not another but Almighty God Himself.

"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) "But to us there is but one God the Father, of whom are all things, and we in Him and one Lord Jesus Christ, by whom are all things, and we by Him." (I Corinthians 8:6)

The apostles knew the gospel, and so did the first 3,000 believers baptized into the body of Christ. We are His bride and as such we need to align our teachings with the entirety of the proclaimed gospel of Jesus Christ.

"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 were baptized: and the same day there were added unto them about three thousand souls.

And they continued steadfastly in the apostles' doctrine and fellowship, and in breaking of bread, and in prayers. And fear came upon every soul: and many wonders and signs were done by the apostles. And all that believed were together, and had all things common, and sold their possessions and goods, and parted them to all [men] as every man had need. And they continually daily with one accord int eh temple, and breaking bread from house to house, did eat their meat with gladness and singleness of heart, praising God and having favour with all the people. And the Lord added to the church daily such as should be saved." (Acts 2:38-47)

The scriptures state: "All things were made by Him and without Him was not any thing made that was made. (John 1:3)

"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 bare witness of Him, and cried, saying, "This was He of whom I spake, He that cometh after me is preferred before me: for He was before me. And of His fullness have all we received, and grace for grace. For the law was given by Moses, but grace and truth came by Jesus Christ. 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 1:10-18)

It's time to come out from among those who preach another gospel that is not contained in His Word.
"For ye are all the children of God by faith in Christ Jesus, for as many of you as have been baptized into Christ have put on Christ. There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither bond nor free, there is neither male nor female, for ye are all one in Christ Jesus -- and [if ye] be Christ's, then are ye Abraham's seed, and heirs according to the promise." (Galatians 3:26-29) 

Stand in His offering plate.

And Without Controversy, Great Is the Mystery of Godliness - Part 1022

"In the name of God." This phrase is fairly common in the public square but do we ever stop and ask ourselves -- what is God's name? Who is this God who commands the universe, pouring His blessings on both the good and evil? Who is this God that willingly was made man and dwelt among us so that we could receive His gift of salvation? (John 1:1-18) Moreover, what is God's name?

Why do I ask? Because God is a "descriptive" title, never being a name. Similarly, in this context, if one is utilizing a descriptive title, then why not expose to others whom it is that you are calling God?

Further, we have all heard that God is love. And God is light -- the shining Light of the world. We also recognize that God is not a respecter of persons. God has not two laws, one for the rich and another for the poor. He has given us two commandments -- the first being to love Him (and seek Him by faith in His Word) with all our heart, soul, mind and strength, and then to serve as a flow through by loving one another.

But in order to know God, we need to read the scriptures. We need to study His Word so that He can reveal Himself to us. Therein, we will learn that God has a name. In fact, as a result of knowing His name and calling upon His name we shall know the truth that will set us free. So does that mean citing the phrase "in the name of God" or "Father God" -- as the religious circles state? Of course not. But note also that God is not the author of confusion.

So what is in a name? What do names represent? You as a individual would never let anyone misrepresent or discredit your name. Why? Because your name is who you are. In fact, to some extent, it dictates who you are. And in fact, your name will outlive you because even your offspring will bear your name. The same principle applies to God. He has a name.

Likewise, when you know God’s name, then you would not by any means desire to discredit or misrepresent His name. Note too that neither Jehovah or Yahweh are God’s name in this current dispensation of grace. Why not? Because God never revealed either as being His name in the new testament.

But there is a name, as the scriptures repeatedly point out, which is above every other name in heaven and on earth. And the one who bears that name is the One God who is before all things. He is also the One God who made all things. This One God who is Spirit has revealed HIMSELF to all of mankind as a Son. He did not reveal Himself as another person in the Godhead but as God Himself dwelling among us.

"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)

God who is Spirit, inhabited a man’s body, endeavouring to reveal Himself to His people. "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)

" I am Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the end, the first and the last. Blessed are they that do his commandments, that they may have right to the tree of life, and may enter in through the gates into the city." (Revelation 22:13-14)

“Thus saith the LORD the King of Israel, and His redeemer the LORD of hosts: I AM THE FIRST, AND I AM THE LAST; AND BESIDE ME THERE IS NO GOD.” (Isaiah 44:6)

“Hearken unto me, O Jacob and Israel, my called; I am he; I AM THE FIRST, I ALSO AM THE LAST.” (Isaiah 48:12)
Indeed, this same Almighty God who gave Himself for us bears the name of JESUS! The only name under heaven whereby we must be saved. The only name in which we can be water baptized -- Acts 2:38. Whatsoever ye do in word or deed, do all in the name of Jesus.

How do we know this? God reveals Himself through the Word. He who knew no sin became sin for us. So much so that even the angels worship Him. So did the wise men worship Him. Yes, Almighty God's name is Jesus. The Jehovah of the old covenant being Jesus in the new testament. The greatest love story ever shared with mankind,

So next time you hear someone say, "in the name of God," you can whisper the precious name Jesus. One Lord, one faith, one baptism. Stand in the offering plate.

The Holy Ghost Hath Made You Overseers to Feed the Church Of God Which He Purchased With His Own Blood - Part 1021

"But though we, or an angel from heaven, preach any other gospel unto you than that which we have preached unto you, let him be accursed. As we said before, so say I now again, if any man preach any other gospel unto you than that ye have received, let him be accursed." (Galatians 1:8-9)

In other words, the gospel of Jesus Christ -- as written in His Word -- is the only true foundation. His Word cannot be superseded by fine-sounding teachings from the pulpit, nor should we permit others (even angels) to interpret the scriptures for us. "Be not carried about with divers and strange doctrines, for [it is] a good thing that the heart be established with grace; not with meats, which have not profited them that have been occupied therein." (Hebrews 13:9)

Indeed, we are all made ministers of the gospel when we believe in Jesus by faith. Through this simple act of believing, He is able to forgive us of our sin (through the blood that He shed on the cross). When we seek Jesus in spirit and truth, He reveals Himself to us through His Word. This is why the apostles said, "But we will give ourselves continually to prayer AND to the ministry of the Word." (Acts 6:4)

How do we become ministers? Certainly not by appointment or accreditation through a man-made religious system, but rather, by seeking Jesus with all our heart, soul, mind and strength. He chose us before the foundation of the world was formed, even knowing us in our mother's womb. It is this same God who reached out in love, becoming as one of us, so that we might truly know Him -- and the extent of His love and mercy. (John 1:1-18)

(As an aside, note also that the order of these commandments -- to love our Lord God and Saviour first, and then to love one another -- has not changed from the old covenant to the new testament.)

Getting back to my original point, Paul the apostle was chosen by the Lord JESUS to bear His name among the nations. We know this from his testimony within the scriptures -- whereby Saul, on the road to Damascus, was stopped in his tracks by the Lord Jesus Himself. (Acts 9)
We also know from the scriptures that Paul was chosen to be His apostle to the Gentiles. Paul declared that the gospel that he preached did not unfold from man’s wisdom. Neither, as Paul states, "was I taught by man." In other words, Paul asserted that he did not receive the gospel of man. Rather he received the gospel from God by means of  revelation. In short, Paul  was asserting that the Word of God was coming to him not from him. 

All this to affirm Paul's statement to one and all. That is, "if any one think of himself as a prophet or spiritual then they had better acknowledge that the things that I write are the commandments of God." (I Corinthians 14:37)

At the time, Paul was well aware how he had in his younger life been entrapped by the religion of his day. In fact, Paul was so engulfed that he - like many today - think/thought they were doing God a great service by killing anyone with an alternative mindset other than theirs. Obviously, they had never heard or read the scripture that states men  (and women) must be allowed to work out his/her destiny in fear and trembling. "Wherefore, my beloved, as ye have always obeyed, not as in my presence only, but now much more in my absence, work out your own salvation with fear and trembling." (Philippians 2:12)

Instead, Paul (formerly known as Saul) became a radical terrorist killer, throwing believers of the JESUS persuasion into prison. At the time, he really believed in his heart that he was doing what God wanted. Who would ever have thought that God would say to a disciple that Paul was a chosen vessel to bear His name JESUS to the Gentiles?

Yes, God has a chosen people -- a royal generation -- a people that God foreknew before the very foundation of the earth. "But 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." (I Peter 2:9) Similarly, in the good news gospel, it is written that God chose the foolish things of the world to confound the worldly wisdom of men -- to preach the "simplicity" of the good news gospel of His kingdom.

"But God hath chosen the foolish things of the world to confound the wise; and God hath chosen the weak things of the world to confound the things which are mighty ..." (I Corinthians 1:27)

Indeed, when we believe in Jesus by faith, and seek Him with all of our being, we become His chosen ministers. "Thy kingdom come, Thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven." (Matthew 6:10)

He who knew no sin became sin for us. It is He who purchased and redeemed back to Himself  the sacrifice of His own body. JESUS being the child conceived of the Holy Ghost -- one other than ‘God Himself as a Son. God with us, as the Bible states. (Matthew 1:21) God with us who willingly laid down His sinless life as payment in full for His people that He foreknew at no cost whatsoever to them. For the gift of God is eternal life. God’s prescription is that you and I believe upon His name -- JESUS -- because there is no redemptive salvation under Heaven in any other name.

Note that we are not talking about religious institutions here. As an institution, religious traditions cannot save man. Why?  Because as the scriptures repeatedly state in Revelation, their candlestick has been removed. Therefore, redemptive salvation is not through a church or by you adhering to long-standing institutional traditions and doctrines --  which unfortunately, in many instances are the same teachings invented by the church fathers of 300 / 400 AD. What is important is that the Holy Ghost was poured out upon believers on the day of Pentecost -- as recorded in Acts 2. Here, the people  were told to repent each and every one of them and be baptized into the name of JESUS! (Acts 2:37-42)

"Take heed therefore unto yourselves, and to all the flock, over the which the Holy Ghost hath made you overseers, to feed the church of God, which He hath purchased with His own blood." (Acts 20:28)

Stand in the offering plate.

I, [even] I, [am] the LORD; and Beside Me [there is] No Saviour.- Part 1020

"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. In Him was life; and the life was the light of men. And the light shineth in darkness; and the darkness comprehended it not." (John 1:1-5)

What does this scripture state? In the beginning, God. (Genesis 1:1; John 1:1) In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God and the Word WAS God. Not another being (or person, or part of the trinity as today's religious culture would have one believe) but the Word WAS God. How do we know this? Because the very next verse states: "The same was in the beginning with God." It does not say that "He" or "another person" was in the beginning with God. The Bible states that He -- the Word -- His Word was in the beginning with God, and WAS God.

And if this is not sufficient evidence that Jesus is God in the flesh, John writes: "ALL things were made by Him and without Him was not any thing made that was made." (John 1:3)

Moreover, John the Baptist was sent to bear witness of the prophesied Christ. Matthew wrote: "Behold, a virgin shall be with child, and shall bring forth a son, and they shall call His name Emmanuel, which being interpreted is, God with us." (Matthew 1:23)

The promised Messiah foretold by the prophet Isaiah: "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)

"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 in Him dwelleth all the fulness of the Godhead bodily." (Colossians 2:9)

Jesus saith unto [Philip], "Have I been so long time with you, and yet hast thou not known me, Philip? He that hath seen Me hath seen the Father; and how sayest thou [then], "Shew us the Father?" 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 dwelleth 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 14:9-11)

This is why Thomas recognized who Jesus was when he said, "My Lord and my God." (John 20:28)

This is why Jesus said, "I and My Father are one." (John 10:30-33)
"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)

"To the only wise God our Saviour, [be] glory and majesty, dominion and power, both now and ever. Amen" (Jude 1:25) "Looking for that blessed hope, and the glorious appearing of the great God and our Saviour Jesus Christ." (Titus 2:13) The Alpha and Omega, the first and the last., the beginning and the end. "For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which IS Christ the Lord." (Luke 2:11)

"Ye [are] My witnesses," saith the LORD, "and My servant whom I have chosen: that ye may know and believe Me, and understand that I [am] He: before Me there was no God formed, neither shall there be after Me." (Isaiah 43:10)

In other words, "hereby perceive we the love [of God], because He laid down His life for us: and we ought to lay down [our] lives for the brethren." (I John 3:16)

John continues, stating: "That was the true Light, which lighteth every man that cometh into the world. 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 1:9-14)

In other words, God became flesh. The same Almighty God that created the world, and everything within, became flesh and dwelt among us -- so that we might inherit eternal life. He did so because He loved us beyond measure. He did so because He who knew no sin wanted to make us His chosen people, a royal generation -- His bride. (I Peter 2:9)

But what do we do? We allow the "religious culture" and the "false teachers" of this day to hijack the gospel of Jesus Christ and His kingdom to "another gospel" -- therefore, butchering the greatest love story ever told to man.

This same scripture that John was willing to give up his life for is later revised without any accountability from the authors of the NIV version -- which states: "In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was with God in the beginning. The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us. We have seen his glory, the glory of the one and only Son, who came from the Father, full of grace and truth." (John 1:1-3)

It's no wonder Paul wrote: "In whom the god of this world hath blinded the minds of them which believe not, lest the light of the glorious gospel of Christ, who IS the image of God, should shine unto them." (II Corinthians 4:4)

But we do not have to count ourselves among the blinded. Rather, remain true to the gospel of Jesus the Christ today. Don't look to man for your salvation, but diligently read His Word and let Jesus lead and guide you into all truth. Understand the doctrine of Christ. (II John 1:9; Hebrews 1:6) For our Lord God and Saviour Jesus willingly shed His blood on the cross for you and I. He never fails.

"Looking for that blessed hope, and the glorious appearing of the great God and our Saviour Jesus Christ." (Titus 2:13) Stand in the offering plate.

Jesus Said - My Grace Is Sufficient For Thee - Part 1019

"Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities -- that the power of Christ may rest upon me. Therefore, I take pleasure in infirmities, reproaches, in necessities, in persecutions, in distresses for Christ's sake, for when I am weak, then am I strong." (II Corinthians 12:9-10)

As anyone who regularly reads the scriptures soon realizes, Paul (who was previously known as Saul) was faithful in preaching the gospel of Jesus the Christ wherever he went. But as we also read in his testimony, persecution and turmoil were a significant part of his Christian journey. Indeed, Paul wrote:

"... in labours more abundant, in stripes above measure, in prisons more frequent, in deaths oft. Of the Jews five times received I forty stripes -- save one. Thrice I was beaten with rods, once was I stoned, thrice I suffered shipwreck, a night and a day I have been in the deep. In journeyings often, perils by the heathen, perils in the city, perils in the wilderness, perils in the sea, perils among false brethren, in weariness and painfulness, in watchings often, in hunger and thirst, in fastings often, in cold and nakedness. Beside those things that are without, that which cometh upon me daily, the care of all the churches .... and through a window in a basket, was I let down by the wall and escaped his hands." (II Corinthians 11:23-33)

The point I want to focus on is that even apostle Paul suffered perils and tribulations when he found himself among false brethren. These false brethren were those who taught "another gospel" and not the good news gospel of Jesus Christ. These did not teach that in everything we do in word or deed (including water baptism), we do in the name of Jesus. (Colossians 3:17; Acts 2:38)

Certainly, there are enough scriptures in the new testament warning against wolves in sheep's clothing who creep in among the faithful unawares.  Jesus said, "Beware of false prophets, which come to you in sheep's clothing, but inwardly they are ravening wolves." (Matthew 7:15)

"Beware of the grievous wolves that will enter in among you, not sparing the flock, and also of your own selves shall men arise, speaking perverse things to draw away disciples after them." (Acts 20:29-30)

"But there were false prophets also among the people, even as there shall be false teachers among you, who privily shall bring in damnable heresies, even denying the Lord that bought them, and bring upon themselves swift destruction. And many shall follow their ways by reason of whom the way of truth shall be evil spoken of and through covetousness, shall they with feigned words make merchandise of you." (II Peter 2:1-3)

These do not "continue steadfastly in the apostles' doctrine and fellowship, and in breaking of bread and in prayers", because these have another agenda. (Acts 2:37-42)

But I digress. The question is this. Why did this happen to one of the Lord's faithful? Because Paul was not only on record for saying, "but by the grace of God I am what I am and His grace which [was bestowed] upon me was not in vain" but for openly declaring the gospel of Jesus Christ to everyone he met. In fact, Paul willingly laboured more abundantly than they all -- "yet not I but the grace of God which was with me. Therefore, whether [it were] I or they, so we preach and so ye believed." (I Corinthians 15:10-11)

"Moreover, brethren" wrote Paul, "I declare unto you the gospel which I preached unto you, which also ye have received and wherein ye stand; by which also ye are saved, if ye keep in memory what I preached unto you, unless ye have believed in vain. For I delivered unto you first of all that which I also received; how that Christ died for our sins according to the scriptures, and now that He was buried, and that He rose again the third day according to the scriptures. And that He was seen of Cephas, and then of the twelve, after that, He was seen of above five hundred brethren at once, of whom the greater part remain unto this present, but some are fallen asleep. After that, He was seen of James, then of all the apostles, and last of all He was seen of me also, as one born out of due time." (I Corinthians 15:1-8)

(Note that the scriptures confirm that the "last" known individual to ever see Jesus was apostle Paul. Not the Joseph Smith's or William Branham's or any of the popular televangelists of this day (who speak of personal visitations from Jesus) but rather Paul the apostle, whom we know through the Word.)

"After that He was seen of James, then of all the apostles, and last of all He was seen of me also, as one born out of due time." (I Corinthians 15:7-8)

"To whom also He showed Himself alive after His passion by many infallible proofs, being seen of them forty days, and speaking of the things pertaining to the kingdom of God; and, being assembled together with [them], commanded them that they should not depart from Jerusalem, but wait for the promise of the Father, which, [saith He] ye have heard of Me. For John truly baptized with water, but ye shall be baptized with the Holy Ghost not many days hence." (Acts 2:4-5)

The same Holy Ghost which is the Comforter, which could not be given until Jesus was glorified. "(But this spake He of the Spirit, which they that believe on Him should receive: for the Holy Ghost was not yet [given] because that Jesus was not yet glorified.)" (John 7:39)

Further, Jesus said, "And I will pray the Father, and He shall give you another Comforter, that He may abide with you for ever." (John 14:6)

"Ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you, and ye shall be witnesses unto Me both in Jerusalem, and in Judaea and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the world." (Acts 1:7-8)

The good news gospel of Jesus Christ isn't just about going to church but recognizing that we are a chosen people, a royal generation whom our Lord God and Saviour counted worthy on the cross.

Paul told the believers in his time, and now us -- "And now brethren I commend you to God and to the Word of His grace, which is able to build you up and to give you an inheritance among all them which are sanctified. I have coveted no man's silver or gold or apparel." (Acts 20:32-33)

In other words, don't become one of the religious illiterates that only listens to someone in the pulpit but never opens the scriptures to find out what He -- Jesus -- the Word that was with God and was God and later became flesh (according to John 1:1-18) -- wants us to know. Instead, study His Word to show thyself approved, as a workman does. Stand firm in the apostles' doctrine as delivered in the new testament. Minister to those around you. Serve the Lord with all humility of mind. Stand in the offering plate with Jesus.

In Thee Lord Jesus Do I Put My Trust - Part 1018

Jesus said, "And whoso shall receive one such little child in My name receives Me." (Matthew 18:4-6) 

Jesus said, "Whomsoever shall receive one of such children in My name receives Me, and whosoever receive Me, receives not Me but Him that sent Me." (Mark 9:37-50)

Often, we see Jesus speaking specifically to His disciples. This was one of those times. Herein, Jesus said, "It is impossible but that offences will come, but woe unto him through "whom" they come. It were better for him that a millstone were hanged about his neck and he cast into the sea, than that he should offend one of these little ones." (Luke 17:1-2)

Similarly, in Matthew, Jesus again said, "Woe unto the world because of offences, for it must needs be that offences come but woe to the man by whom the offence cometh." (Matthew 18:7)

In other words, woe unto the man (or woman) who willingly chooses to believe/preach another gospel rather than remaining steadfast in the apostles' doctrine -- His Word -- as it is written. Note that these warnings are not just a one time scriptural occurrence. Both Jesus and the apostles repeatedly warned of heresies and contentions within the church -- and of those who desired to cause divisions by preaching "another" gospel. 

Moreover, we are repeatedly warned that in the last days there would appear among us "wolves in sheep's clothing" who would deceive even the elect, if that were possible. (Matthew 7:15; Matthew 24:24) 

What did Jesus say? To beware of those who do not align their religious culture and statements of faith with His Word. 

Indeed, "let no man deceive you by any means; for that day shall not come except there come a falling away first, and that man of sin be revealed, the son of perdition, who opposeth and exalteth himself above all that is called God, or that is worshipped, so that he as God sitteth in the temple of God, showing himself that he is God." (II Thessalonians 2:1-17)

"(For many walk, of whom I have told you often, and now tell you even weeping, [that they are] the enemies of the cross of Christ, whose end [is] destruction, whose God [is their] belly, and [whose] glory [is] in their shame, who mind earthly things.)" (Philippians 3:18-19)

"Now the Spirit speaketh expressly that in the latter times some shall depart from the faith, giving heed to seducing spirits and doctrines of devils, speaking lies in hypocrisy, having their conscience seared with a hot iron, forbidding to marry, [and commanding] to abstain from meats which God hath created to be received with thanksgiving of them which believe and know the truth ..." (I Timothy 4:1-6)

This is why Paul wrote: "Now in this that I declare [unto you] I praise not, that ye come together -- not for the better but for the worse." (I Corinthians 11:16)

It is for this reason that every man needs "to take heed how he buildeth thereupon for other foundation can no man lay than that is laid [which] is Jesus Christ." (I Corinthians 3:10-11) 

This is why we who believe in Jesus by faith must also seek Him with all our heart, soul, mind and strength ... so that we are "not soon shaken in mind, or be troubled, neither by spirit, nor by word, nor by letter as from us, as that the day of Christ is at hand." (II Thessalonians 2:1-2)

This is why we who believe in Jesus by faith diligently search the scriptures so that we can be doers of the Word and not just hearers, deceiving our own selves. (James 1:22)

This is why we who believe in Jesus by faith have repented and "converted that your sins may be blotted out, when the times of refreshing shall come from the presence of the Lord. And He shall send Jesus Christ, which before was preached unto you, whom the heaven must receive until the times of restitution of all things, which God hath spoken by the mouth of all His holy prophets since the world began." (Acts 3:19-21)

This same Jesus who willingly shed His precious blood on the cross for you and I -- "The Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the ending, which is, and which was, and which is to come -- the Almighty." (Revelation 1:8, 11)

For those who may not know, the apostles' doctrine was established when Peter, standing with the eleven in Acts 2, preached repentance and water baptism in Jesus' name to the first 3,000 believers saved who also received the gift of the Holy Ghost. (Acts 2:37-42)

These men and brethren who were in the upper room -- including Peter and James, and John and Andrew, Philip and Thomas, Bartholomew, and Matthew, James the son of Alphaeus, and Simon Zeotes, and Judas the brother of James, and later Matthias -- "ALL CONTINUED WITH ONE ACCORD IN PRAYER AND SUPPLICATION with the women, and Mary, the mother of Jesus, and with His brethren." (Acts 1:14)

All continued steadfastly in the apostles' doctrine and fellowship, and in breaking of bread, and in prayers -- with one accord in prayer and supplication. (Acts 1:14; Acts 2:42)

This is why Paul stated, "Now I beseech you, brethren, BY THE NAME OF OUR LORD JESUS CHRIST THAT YE ALL SPEAK THE SAME THING, and [that] there be no divisions among you, but [that] ye be perfectly joined together in the same mind and in the same judgement ..." (I Corinthians 1:10-11) 

Yes, one Lord, one faith, one baptism. 

"And they continued steadfastly in the apostles' doctrine and fellowship, and in breaking of bread, and in prayers." (Acts 2:42) As believers in Jesus by faith, we need to do likewise. Stand in the offering plate today.

If Ye Believe Not That I Am He ... - Part 1017

Jesus was speaking with the Jews and Pharisees in the treasury, as He taught in the temple. At the time, no man had laid hands on Him for His hour was not yet come. (John 8:20)

Jesus said unto them, "I am the Light of the world. He that followeth Me shall not walk in darkness but shall have the Light of life." (John 8:12)

What was Jesus saying? He that follows Him shall not walk in darkness but shall have the Light of life. Why is this important? Because "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. In Him was life, and the life was the Light of men. And the Light shineth in darkness and the darkness comprehended it not." (John 1:1-5)

John further clarifies that John the Baptist was NOT that Light but rather was sent as a forerunner to bear witness of the prophesied and soon to come Light -- the Light that was the true Light, which lighteth every man that cometh into the world.

"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 1:6-11)

"This same Word was made flesh and dwelt among us (and we beheld His glory, the glory of the only begotten of the Father) full of grace and truth." (John 1:14) Indeed, "no man hath seen God at any time; the only begotten Son which is in the bosom of the Father -- He hath declared." (John 1:18)

Jesus said, "As long as I am in the world, I am the Light of the world." (John 9:5) And some time later, "Yet a little while is the Light with you. Walk while ye have the Light lest darkness come upon you, for he that walketh in darkness knoweth not whither he goeth. While ye have the Light, believe in the Light that ye may be the children of Light." (John 12:35-36)

Note that this is the same God speaking to us "who at sundry times and in diverse manners spake in time past unto the fathers by the prophets, hath in these last days spoken unto us by [His] Son whom He hath appointed heir of all things by whom also He made the worlds, 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 -- being made so much better than the angels." (Hebrews 1:1-3)

Not a different God or God in three persons as today's modern religious culture would have us believe, but Almighty God Himself -- He who knew no sin took on sin prone flesh as a Son, shedding His precious blood on a cross for you and I. (I Timothy 3:16; Isaiah 9:6)

But the Pharisees and Jews of the day did not accept His teachings, preferring instead to state that Jesus' record is not true. "Thou bearest record of Thyself ... Thy record is not true." (John 8:13) How did Jesus respond?

He told them -- "Though I bear record of Myself, [yet] My record is true for I know whence I came and whither I go, but ye cannot tell whence I come and whither I go." (John 8:14)

Shortly after, Jesus again reminds the Pharisees again -- "Whither I go, ye cannot come. Ye are from beneath.  I am from above. Ye are of this world. I am not of this world. 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 8:22-24)

These then asked, "Who art Thou?" Jesus said unto them, "Even [the same] that I said unto you from the beginning. I have many things to say and to judge of you, but He that sent Me is true and I speak to the world those things which I have heard of Him." (John 8:25-26)

"Ye judge after the flesh. I judge no man. And yet, if I judge, My judgement is true for I am not alone, but I and the Father that sent Me. It is also written in your law that the testimony of two men is true. I am one that bear witness of Myself and the Father that sent Me beareth witness of Me." (John 8:14-18)

But still they understood not that Jesus spoke to them of the Father. Asking, "Where is Thy Father?" Jesus answered, "Ye neither know Me, nor My Father. If ye had known Me, ye should have known My Father also." (John 8:19-20) Simply stated, and yet, not understood. Neither was Jesus message understood when He told them, "Verily, verily, I say unto you -- before Abraham was, I AM." (John 8:58)

But unlike the Pharisees and Jews in this scriptural example, do not be deceived by those who have not diligently searched the scriptures, as a workman who loveth His Lord God and Saviour would naturally do. Rather, let the Light of Jesus the Christ shine through you in everything you do in word or deed.

Jesus said, "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)

Why should we align our beliefs and doctrines with His Word? Because "ye brethren are not in darkness that that day should overtake ye as a thief. Ye are all the children of the Light and children of the day. We are not of the night nor of darkness." (I Thessalonians 5:5)

A timely message encouraging each one of us as believers to spend time seeking Jesus through His Word, and to align our doctrinal beliefs with His declared gospel. Let him who hath ears to hear, hear. Stand in the offering plate with Jesus!

Let Us Lay Aside Every Weight And Run With Patience the Race Set Before Us - Part 1016

"Wherefore seeing we also are compassed about with so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which doth so easily beset [us], and let us run with patience the race that is set before us -- looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of [our] faith -- who for the joy that was set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God ... for consider Him that endured such contradiction of sinners against Himself -- lest ye be wearied and faint in your minds." (Hebrews 12:1-3)

He who knew no sin became sin for us so that we might have salvation. But in following Jesus, one might be inclined to ask -- what is the race that is set before us? Particularly, when all around us the worldly constructs and diversions tend to take us away from the gospel of His kingdom. It's certainly a good question.

First, that we remember the first commandment -- to love our Lord God and Saviour Jesus the Christ with all our heart, soul, mind and strength.

"That at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of [things] in heaven, and [things] in earth and [things] in heaven, and that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord -- to the glory of God the Father." (Philippians 2:10-11)

Second, we seek Jesus with all our heart, soul, mind and strength.

"As newborn babes, desire the sincere milk of the Word that ye may grow thereby -- if so be ye have tasted that the Lord [is] gracious." (I Peter 2:2-3)

"The eyes of your understanding being enlightened, that ye may know what is the hope of His calling, and what the riches of the glory of His inheritance in the saints, and what is exceeding greatness of His power to us-ward who believe, according to the working of His mighty power." (Ephesians 1:19)

Third, we repent and be baptized in water in the name of Jesus Christ -- as presented in every example of water baptism in the scriptures.

"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." (Acts 2:37-38)

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

"Know ye not that so many of us as were baptized into Jesus Christ were baptized into His death? Therefore, we are buried with Him by baptism into death, that like as Christ was raised up from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life." (Romans 6:1-10)

"If ye then be risen with Christ, seek those things which are above, where Christ sitteth on the right hand of God. Set your affections on things above, not on things on the earth. For ye are dead and your life is hid with Christ in God, when Christ [who is] our life shall appear, then shall ye also appear with Him in glory." (Colossians 3:1-4)

Fourth, recognize that Jesus has a specific purpose for your life, and when you seek Him with all your heart, soul, mind and strength, you will be renewed.

"Now therefore ye are no more strangers and foreigners but fellow citizens with the saints, and of the household of God; and are built upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Jesus Christ Himself being the chief corner [stone]; in whom all the building fitly framed together groweth unto an holy temple in the Lord -- in whom ye are also builded together for an habitation of God through the Spirit." (Ephesians 2:19-22)

Fifth, let us not be weary in well doing, for in due season we shall reap if we faint not. (Galatians 6:9)

"For as much as ye know that ye were not redeemed with corruptible things, [as] silver and gold, from your vain conversation [received] by tradition from your fathers; but with the precious blood of Christ, as a lamb without blemish and without spot -- who verily was foreordained before the foundation of the world but was manifest in these last times for you." (I Peter 1:18-20)

Sixth, let Jesus lead you into all truth.

"God is a Spirit: and they that worship Him must worship Him in spirit and in truth." (John 4:24)

Seventh, never let go of the message that ye heard from the beginning, and your first love for your Saviour.

"Behold, 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. Beloved, now are we the sons of God and it doth not yet appear what we shall be; but we know that when He shall appear, we shall be like Him, for we shall see Him as He is -- and every man that hath this hope in HIm purifieth himself, even as He is pure." (I John 3:1-3)

Eighth, salvation is the gift of God -- not of works lest any man should boast.

"For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: not of works, lest any man should boast. For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works ..." (Ephesians 2:8-10)

"But 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." (I Peter 2:9)

"... the wisdom that is from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, and easy to be intreated, full of mercy and good fruits without partiality and with out hypocricy -- and the fruit of righteousness is sown in peace of them that make peace." (James 3:17-18)

Ninth, Jesus is the true Light, which lighteth every man that cometh into the world. "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." (John 1:1-18)

"In that He saith, "A new covenant, He hath made the first old. Now that whch decayeth and waxeth old is ready to vanish away .... the Holy Ghost this signifying that the way into the holiest of all was not yet made manifest, while as the first tabernacle was yet standing." (Hebrews 8:13- Hebrews 9:1-28)

Tenth, stand in the offering plate with Christ. Let us lay aside every weight that takes us away from our unique purpose. Jesus said, "Behold, I stand at the door and knock. If any man hear My voice, I will come into Him, and will sup with Him, and he with Me. To him that overcometh, will I grant to sit with Me in My throne, even as I overcame and am set down with My Father in His throne."

He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit of the Lord saith to each and every one of us. Blessings in Jesus' nae.