Jesus Said, "If Ye Love Me, Keep My Commandments" - Part 1214

Jesus said, "If ye abide in Me, and My words abide in you, ye shall ask what ye will, and it shall be done unto you." (John 15:7)

Perhaps, it is time to rightly call modern day religion a "cult" rather than referring to the place(s) whereby saints assemble as church in the context of I Corinthians 12-14. I recognize that this is walking a very fine line, but nevertheless, someone needs to state the obvious. That is, if Jesus Christ is not the Head of the body of Christ in your place of worship, if Jesus Christ is not the chief cornerstone that is worthy to be praised, if pressing into Jesus Christ is not the sole motivation in our life and our reason for living, and if our relationship with the Lord is reduced to just giving money (under the old covenant teaching of tithing) and going to church for a couple of hours on Sunday, then we have seriously missed the boat.

Jesus said, "I am the Way, the Truth, and the Life. No man comes to the Father but by Me." (John 14:6)

Jesus also said, " If ye love Me, keep My commandments." (John 14:15)

This is why Jesus said that "no man can serve two masters: for either he will hate the one, and love the other; or else he will hold to the one, and despise the other. Ye cannot serve God and mammon." (Matthew 6:24-34)

In these last days, Jesus invites us to come out from among them and be ye separate from those that desire to either "add to" or "take away" from the gospel of Jesus Christ. The same good news gospel of Jesus Christ that was intended to set us free, so that we could stand fast in His liberty. (Galatians 5:1)

To that end, Jesus shares a perfect example with His disciples. Herein, Jesus says, "If ye love Me, keep My commandments. And I will pray the Father, and He shall give you another Comforter, that He may abide with you for ever; even the Spirit of truth; whom the world cannot receive, because it seeth Him not, neither knoweth Him: but ye know Him; for He dwelleth with you, and shall be in you. I will not leave you comfortless: I will come to you.

Yet a little while, and the world seeth Me no more; but ye see Me: because I live, ye shall live also. At that day ye shall know that I am in my Father, and ye in Me, and I in you. He that hath my commandments, and keepeth them, he it is that loveth Me: and he that loveth Me shall be loved of my Father, and I will love him, and will manifest Myself to him.

Judas saith unto him, not Iscariot, "Lord, how is it that thou wilt manifest Thyself unto us, and not unto the world?"

Jesus answered and said unto him, "If a man love Me, he will keep My words: and My Father will love him, and we will come unto him, and make our abode with him. He that loveth Me not keepeth not My sayings: and the Word which ye hear is not Mine, but the Father's which sent me. These things have I spoken unto you, being yet present with you.

But the Comforter, which is the Holy Ghost, whom the Father will send in My name, He shall teach you all things, and bring all things to your remembrance, whatsoever I have said unto you. Peace I leave with you, My peace I give unto you: not as the world gives, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.

Ye have heard how I said unto you, "I go away, and come again unto you." If ye loved Me, ye would rejoice, because I said, "I go unto the Father: for My Father is greater than I." And now I have told you before it come to pass, that, when it is come to pass, ye might believe.

Hereafter I will not talk much with you: for the prince of this world cometh, and hath nothing in Me. But that the world may know that I love the Father; and as the Father gave Me commandment, even so I do. Arise, let us go hence." (John 14:15-31)

We need to fully abide in Jesus, and let organized man-made (institutionalized) religion be a side-kick to our personal relationship with the King of kings and Lord of lords. We need to become fully clothed in the righteousness of Jesus, shedding all garments (and aprons) that blind us to His truth. We need to accept that we are all sinners saved by grace, and that we are nothing in and of ourselves. And we need to study His Word so that we are not deceived by the worldly dogmas that are intent on stealing our souls.

If you don't know Jesus as your personal Saviour, repent and ask Jesus to become Lord in your life today. Be baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ for the remission of sin, and receive His gift of the Holy Ghost living within. (Acts 2:37-42) Desire spiritual gifts that will strengthen you and help you become a flow through for Him. In all things, seek His wisdom and instruction for your life, doing all things -- in both word and deed -- in the precious name of Jesus.

Why? Because Jesus said if you abide in Him, "Ye shall know the truth and the truth shall set you free." 

Let him who hath ears to hear, hear. Stand in the offering plate.

"I Was Made Manifest Unto Them That Asked Not After Me - Part 1213

"Brethren, my heart's desire and prayer to God for Israel is, that they might be saved. For I bear them record that they have a zeal of God, but not according to knowledge. For they being ignorant of God's righteousness, and going about to establish their own righteousness, have not submitted themselves unto the righteousness of God."

Strong words for sure. Herein, apostle Paul is sharing his heart's desire - his prayer -- that Israel would be saved. Remember, Saul (who later became Paul as a consequence of meeting Jesus on his way to Damascus) was well educated and as such, understood the precepts under old covenant law.

But apostle Paul, previously known for his persecution of anyone who called on the name of Jesus, was also saved by grace, under the current new testament dispensation, in which we are sanctified through the Word, and the shedding of His precious blood on the cross. Therefore, when the apostle wrote, "For Christ is the end of the Law for righteousness to every one that believes," he understood the reason why too.

That is, "for Moses describes the righteousness which is of the Law [as] the man which does those things shall live by them." (Romans 10:5)

But the righteousness which is of faith -- the righteousness that comes because of His untold love for you and I -- speaks on this wise, "Say not in thine heart, Who shall ascend into heaven?" (that is, to bring Christ down from above), or, "Who shall descend into the deep?" (that is, to bring up Christ again from the dead), But what saith it? "The Word is nigh thee, even in thy mouth, and in thy heart. That is, the Word of faith, which we preach." (Romans 10:6-8)

Say that again! That is, the Word of faith, which the apostles preached to everyone they encountered in their day to day. "That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised Him from the dead, thou shalt be saved." (Romans 10:9)

The Lord Jesus. Thy Word that was with God and is God, from the beginning. (John 1:1-18) The same Word that became flesh and dwelt among us. The same Word who healed the sick, cast out demons, raised the dead, and preached the good news gospel.

How do we know? Because when Jesus died on the cross, the veil was ripped from top to bottom. God had declared peace once and for all to mankind through His obedience on the cross. The same God that was in the world and the world made by Him but the world knew Him not. This is the Israel that Paul was grieving for -- the same Israel that failed to recognize that the Word was made manifest to them, but they did not recognize the One and Only King who was and still is both Lord and Christ. (Acts 2:36)

Still, God in Christ Jesus came to save those which are lost. He came to save His people from their sins. Even those who were noted scripturally as ignorant of God's righteousness, and seeking to establish their own righteousness because He loved each and every one of us while we were yet sinners.

"For with the heart man believes unto righteousness; and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation. For the scripture saith, "Whosoever believeth on Him shall not be ashamed." (Romans 10:10-11)

And then the apostle elaborated, writing: "For there is no difference between the Jew and the Greek, for the same Lord over all is rich unto all that call upon Him. For whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved." (Romans 10:12)

But here is the clincher. We have a responsibility to declare the good news gospel of Jesus Christ to those around us. Just like Paul, and the other disciples who pressed into Jesus for their guidance and knowledge.

"How then shall they call on Him in whom they have not believed? And how shall they believe in Him of whom they have not heard? And how shall they hear without a preacher? And how shall they preach, except they be sent? As it is written, "How beautiful are the feet of them that preach the gospel of peace, and bring glad tidings of good things!" (Romans 10:13-16)

Still, as sad as it is, they have not all obeyed the gospel. For Esaias saith, "Lord, who hath believed our report?" So then faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the Word of God.

But Paul said -- "Have they not heard? Yes. verily, their sound went into all the earth, and their words unto the ends of the world." But I say, "Did not Israel know? First Moses saith, "I will provoke you to jealousy by them that are no people, and by a foolish nation I will anger you." But Esaias is very bold, and saith, "I was found of them that sought Me not; I was made manifest unto them that asked not after Me."

But to Israel He saith, "All day long I have stretched forth My hands unto a disobedient and gainsaying people." (Romans 10:21)

It is no wonder apostle Paul's hearts desire and prayers were for Israel that they would some day come to the knowledge of Jesus the Christ, and His salvation message. If you do not believed you are saved today, repent and be baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ for the remission of sins and receive His gift of the Holy Ghost. (Acts 2:37-42)

Then press into Jesus by reading the new testament. Study to show thyself approved, as doth a workman. Pray continually that your faith and understanding may be increased. Proclaim the gospel of Jesus boldly. Stand in the offering plate. 

Let This Mind Be In You Which Was Also In Christ Jesus - Part 1212

"If there be therefore any consolation in Christ, if any comfort of love, if any fellowship of the Spirit, if any bowels and mercies, fulfill ye my joy, that ye be like minded, having the same love, being of one accord, of one mind ..." (Philippians 2:1-2)

Understanding what the will of the Lord is according to His Word. (Ephesians 5:17)

Hereby knowing the difference between the Spirit of truth and the spirit of error. Loving one another for love is of God. Understanding that we are sanctified not of our own selves but through the Word that was in the world and yet the world knew Him not. (John 1:1-18)

"That which was from the beginning, which we have heard, which we have seen with our eyes, which we have looked upon and our hands have handled -- of the Word of life. For the life was manifested and we have seen [it] and bear witness and show unto you that eternal life, which was with the Father and was manifested unto us -- that which we have seen and heard declare we unto you, that ye also may have fellowship with us, and truly our fellowship is with the Father, and with His Son Jesus Christ ... this is the message which we have heard of Him and declare unto you, that God is light and in Him is no darkness at all." (I John 1:1-10)

And like the apostles, Jesus through the Holy Ghost speaks to us, guiding our every step when we make Him Lord of all in our life. (Acts 1:2)

"In this was manifested the love of God toward us because that God sent His only begotten Son into the world that we might live through Him. Herein is love, not that we loved God but that He loved us and sent His Son to be the propitiation for our sins. Beloved, if God so loved us, we ought also to love one another ... hereby, know that we dwell in Him and He in us, because He hath given us of His Spirit, and we have seen and do testify that the Father sent the Son to be the Saviour of the world.

Whosoever shall confess that Jesus is the Son of God, God dwells in him and he in God. And we have known and believed the love that God hath to us. God is love, and he that dwells in love dwells in God and God in him.

Herein is our love made perfect that we may have boldness in the day of judgement because as He is so are we in this world. There is no fear in love but perfect love casts out fear, because fear hath torment. He that fears is not made perfect in love. We love Him because He first loved us." (I John 4:9-21)

How else do we let this mind that was in Christ Jesus also be in us? By continuing in prayer, and watching in the same with thanksgiving. Walking in wisdom toward them that are without. (Colossians 4:5-6) Withal praying also that God would open unto all of us a door of utterance, to speak the mystery of Christ. (Colossians 4:3)

The mystery that the world has yet to understand? That God was in Christ, the fullness of the Godhead dwelling bodily in Him. God manifest in the flesh, the Word dwelling among us, justified in the Spirit, seen of angels, preached unto the Gentiles, believed on in the world, received up into glory. (I Timothy 3:16)

So that His utterance may be given unto us, that we may open our mouth boldly "to make known the mystery of the gospel, for which I am an ambassador in bonds, that I may speak boldly as I ought to speak." (Ephesians 6:19-20)

The scripture also instructs us to "let the Word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom, teaching and admonishing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with grace in your hearts to the Lord, and whatsoever you do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God and the Father by Him." (Colossians 3:16-17)

"Be filled with the Spirit, speaking to yourselves in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody in your heart to the Lord -- giving thanks always for all things unto God and the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ." (Ephesians 5:18-20)

The grace and mercy of our Lord that passes all human understanding, this should be our lives every moment of our day. Giving thanks to the Lord of lords and King of kings who loved us so much that He Himself would willingly become as a servant in a world lost in turmoil so that we might have eternal life in Him.

We have so much to learn but the good news is that while we labour in the Word and in doctrine, we can also know that Jesus has declared -- the labourer is worthy of his reward. (I Timothy 5:17-18; Luke 10:7)

So, today as you study the Word for your instruction and wisdom, let Jesus put His melody in your heart. Pray in thanksgiving, bringing the brethren into remembrance of the things that are important -- including being "a good minister of Jesus Christ, nourished up in the words of faith and of good doctrine" where unto our hope should lie. (I Timothy 4:6)

And let this mind be in you which was also in Christ Jesus. Stand in the offering plate.

The Grace Wherein We Stand Because God Willingly Commended His Love Toward Us When He Declared Peace to One and All - Part 1211

"Therefore being justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ, by whom also we have access by faith into this grace wherein we stand, and rejoice in hope of the glory of God. And not only so, but we glory in tribulations also knowing that tribulation works patience; and patience, experience; and experience, hope: and hope makes not ashamed; because the love of God is shed abroad in our hearts by the Holy Ghost which is given unto us." (Romans 5:1-5)

For when we were yet without strength, in due time Christ died for the ungodly. For scarcely for a righteous man will one die: yet peradventure for a good man some would even dare to die. But God commends His love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.

Much more then, being now justified by His blood, we shall be saved from wrath through Him. For if, when we were enemies, we were reconciled to God by the death of his Son, much more, being reconciled, we shall be saved by His life. And not only so, but we also joy in God through our Lord Jesus Christ, by whom we have now received the atonement. Wherefore, as by one man sin entered into the world, and death by sin; and so death passed upon all men, for that all have sinned.

(For until the law sin was in the world: but sin is not imputed when there is no law. Nevertheless death reigned from Adam to Moses, even over them that had not sinned after the similitude of Adam's transgression, who is the figure of Him that was to come. But not as the offence, so also is the free gift.

For if through the offence of one many be dead, much more the grace of God, and the gift by grace, which is by one man, Jesus Christ, hath abounded unto many. And not as it was by one that sinned, so is the gift: for the judgment was by one to condemnation, but the free gift is of many offences unto justification. For if by one man's offence death reigned by one; much more they which receive abundance of grace and of the gift of righteousness shall reign in life by One, Jesus Christ.)

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 upon 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 abound: That as sin hath reigned unto death, even so might grace reign through righteousness unto eternal life by Jesus Christ our Lord." (Romans 5:6-21)

Therein lies our hope and peace, succinctly summarized in one passage of scripture. The precious blood of Jesus that brings us into the household of God, when we ask Jesus to become Lord in our life, and are baptized in His name. (Acts 2:37-42)

Through Him we both have access by one Spirit unto the Father, in the same manner that Jesus (after being taken up) commanded the apostles through the Holy Ghost. (Acts 1:2) One Lord. One Faith. One Baptism. One God and Father of all who is above all and through all and in you all. (Ephesians 4:5-6)

This is why we can be confident that we are no longer strangers and foreigners in a world that has lost its way but rather fellow citizens with the saints. We are built upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Jesus Christ Himself being the chief corner stone -- in whom all the building of fitly framed together grows unto an holy temple in the Lord -- "in whom ye also are builded together for an habitation of God through the Spirit." (Ephesians 2:18-22)

So much to be thankful for, because we are no longer children tossed to and fro, and carried away with every wind of doctrine, by the sleight of men, and cunning craftiness, whereby they lie in wait to deceive. (Ephesians 4:14-15) Regardless of the many things that may not make sense in our life, we can place our hope in Jesus -- who never fails -- speaking the truth in love.

Be ye therefore followers of God and walk in love as Christ also hath loved us, and hath given Himself for us an offering and a sacrifice to God for a sweet smelling savour. (Ephesians 5:1-2)

Study His Word. Pray continually. Ask Jesus to guide your steps going forward. Stand in the offering plate as a daughter or son of the Most High King.

Let the Kingdom of God Dwell Within Your Heart Today -Part 1210

Interestingly, Jesus often spoke parables to those certain "which trusted in themselves" - those who considered themselves to be righteous, and as a consequence despised others. (Luke 18:9)

We read that in the midst of Samaria Jesus had healed ten men of their leprosy. When they saw Jesus, they said, "Jesus, Master, have mercy on us." When Jesus saw them, He told them to go show themselves unto the priests. As they went on their way, they were cleansed.

But one of them (when he recognized that he had been healed) turned back and with a loud voice glorified God. Indeed, the man fell down at Jesus' feet, giving Him thanks. Jesus answering said,  "Were there not ten cleansed? But where are the nine? There are not found that returned to give glory to God, save this stranger."  (Luke 17:11-18)

And Jesus said, "Arise, go thy way. Thy faith hath made the whole."  (Luke 17:19; Matthew 9:23) As an aside, note that the man fell at Jesus feet when he glorified God. He knew that Jesus was God in the flesh, and unlike the modern day religious culture, did not have to go searching for another).

This caused the Pharisees to demand of Jesus "when" the kingdom of God would come. It is within this context that Jesus is speaking the parable about always praying, and not to faint.

To elaborate on this last point, Jesus tells the parable of a judge which feared not God, and neither regarded men. Jesus says, "And there was a widow in that city and she came unto him saying, "Avenge me of mine adversary and he would not. But afterward, he said within himself, "Though I fear not God, nor regard men, yet because this widow troubleth me, I will avenge her, lest by her continual coming she weary me." (Luke 18:1-5)

And the Lord said, "Hear what the unjust judge said. And shall not God avenge His own elect, which cry day and night unto Him, though He bear long with them? I tell you He will avenge them speedily. Nevertheless, when the Son of man cometh, shall He find faith on the earth?" (Luke 18:6-8)

For it is written, "For yet a little while and He that shall come will come and will not tarry. Now the just shall live by faith, but if any man draw back, My soul shall have no pleasure in him." (Hebrews 10:37-38)

You see there are those who like to justify themselves before men but God knows the hearts. - "for that which is highly esteemed among men is abomination in the sight of God." Luke 16:15)

And in this case, the Pharisees did not know how nigh the kingdom of God was to them. Here was the King of kings and Lord of lords standing right before them, having just healed the ten men of leprosy and yet they still tried to justify themselves. These Pharisees still tried to declare their self-imposed righteousness in front of the very Lord who knew them in their mother's womb.

This is why Jesus rightly said, "The Law and the prophets until John, since that time the kingdom of God is preached and every man presses into it." (Luke 16:15)

How do we press into Jesus? In continual prayer. (Luke 18:1) Being thankful for the many blessings bestowed upon us each and every day. (Luke 11:1-4) And just like the disciples asked Jesus, "teach us to pray" we should be earnestly seeking Him through His Word. Study to shew thyself approved, as a workman does.

In these last days, Jesus is still inviting us to come, and let His kingdom - the kingdom of God - dwell within us. Jesus is inviting us to enter into His peace and joy that passes all human understanding.

"For ye were sometimes darkness but now are ye light in the Lord, walk as the children of light ... for the fruit of the Spirit is in all goodness and righteousness and truth, proving what is acceptable unto the Lord." (Ephesians 5:8-9) Not because of us but rather, that God willingly came unto His own to save us from our sin.

"And they called His name Jesus for He shall save His people from their sin." (Matthew 1:21-23)

Stand in the offering plate.

Jesus Is The ONLY Way To Heaven - Part 1209

"He made Him who knew no sin to be sin on our behalf, that we might become the righteousness of God in Him." (II Corinthians 5:21)

What would you like to do this day? For me, I no longer ask -- "Lord, what would you like me to do this day?" You see, I am no longer a servant or a slave but a Bride of the Most High King, head over heals in love for my husband  Jesus Christ!!!

Why? Because He who was delivered up for our transgressions did not have to do anything on our behalf. But the good news is that when Almighty God declared peace to one and all, He was also willing to became our Saviour. He provided an atonement that went far beyond anyone's expectations because while we were yet sinners - far removed from His presence and grace - He loved us.

This is the reason why there is only one way to heaven. For by this one offering, He perfected for all time those who believe in Jesus by faith. By His precious blood shed on the cross, He paid the price for our sin once and for all. From an old covenant perspective, He fulfilled all the requirements of the Law, becoming the perfect sacrifice. he became the curse for us for it is written, "Cursed is everyone who hangs on a tree." (Galatians 3:10-13)

Jesus - the King of Kings accomplished the work of salvation for you and I. He clothes us with His righteousness when we ask Jesus into our life, repenting of our sins and are baptized in His name. (Acts 2:37-42)

Not about us but Jesus only! Jesus - the Alpha and Omega, the first and last, the beginning and the end. Jesus -- the One and Only Way to heaven. Jesus - neither is there any other name given under heaven whereby we must be saved. (Acts 4:12)

Press into Jesus today! Accept His goodness and grace in your life. Stand in the offering plate.

Only the Traditions of Men Exalt Mary and Not Jesus -- the King of kings and Lord of lords - Part 1208

Jesus said, "I am the vine, ye are the branches. He that abides in Me, and I in him, the same brings forth much fruit ... for without Me ye can do nothing." (John 15:5)

The world is already aware of the bad news that is emerging all around us. But Jesus instructs believers in Him by faith to watch that the day and age that is currently emerging does not come upon us unaware. Indeed, as a believing community and members of the body of Christ we need to be aware of the signs of the times as described within His Word.

How does this happen? By seeking Jesus with all our heart, soul, mind and strength. The one and only Jesus who He Himself said is the Way, the Truth, and the Life. The ONLY mediator between God and man, the man Christ Jesus, for only He can save His people from their sin. (Matthew 1:21-23)

Jesus did not say that the church is the vine and that religious denominations are the branches. This is quite simply another demonic lie, emanating from the mother of harlots -- so called church. It is only exposed as being demonic in doctrine when one opens the written Word of God which alone is capable of exposing their erroneous error. Remember, that if the Light that is in you is actual darkness, then, how great is that darkness.

This is why Jesus said that He is the true Light, and those that follow Him shall not walk in darkness. When we seek Jesus, we will not be ignorant of the things around us. Therefore, just because someone asserts that they are Christian does not necessarily mean that they are. For it is written that if they speak things which are contrary to this Word, it is simply because there is no Light of the Gospel dwelling in them.

This is why the Word admonishes that believers ought not to continue in frequenting establishments that lay aside the authoritative Word of God. For in this context, what fellowship has light with darkness? Can two walk together except they are in agreement? Therefore "come out from among them" and be separated in belief to the Word of God.

Is this easy? No, because often it means leaving a faith community full of friends and acquaintances. But what did Jesus say? He told us that no man can serve two masters. He told us to love Him with all our heart, soul, mind and strength. To seek after Jesus in everything we do in both Word or deed. To worship Him in spirit and in truth. To be clothed in His righteousness that can only come from repenting and being baptized in the name of Jesus Christ. (Acts 2:37-42)

In Luke 11:27- 28, we read that a certain woman lifted up her voice and said to Jesus, "Blessed is the womb that bare you and the breasts that you have sucked." How did Jesus respond? He said, "Yea, rather, blessed are they that hear the Word of God and keep it." (Luke 11:28)

This is why any blessing pronounced by man or woman on the surrogate mother of Jesus is wrong by Jesus own response in this example. Only the traditions of men place the mother of Jesus above the Lord and His Christ. Jesus' response did not exalt fallen sinful flesh as a prescription for the redemption of fallen humanity.

In fact, Jesus said that the real blessed persons are those who hear the Word of God and keep it. The Word of God is not in harmony with the exaltation of Mary’s sin prone ancestral flesh in which she herself was clothed in -- inasmuch, that all flesh are Adam’s offspring. Those who seek to exalt Mary are now being sternly rebuked by the Word of the Spirit of God which proceeds from the mouth of Jesus.

Jesus instructs us to continue in His Word and then you will be His disciples. Even Mary (the mother of Jesus) willingly magnified the Lord, after the Holy Ghost overshadowed her with the "holy thing" within her womb (as Luke describes the unborn Jesus).

And Mary said, "My soul doth magnify the Lord, and my spirit hath rejoiced in God my Saviour. For He hath regarded the low estate of His handmaiden: for, behold, from henceforth all generations shall call me blessed. For He that is mighty hath done to me great things; and holy is His name. And His mercy is on them that fear Him from generation to generation. He hath shewed strength with His arm. He hath scattered the proud in the imagination of their hearts. He hath put down the mighty from their seats, and exalted them of low degree. He hath filled the hungry with good things; and the rich He hath sent empty away. He hath helped His servant Israel, in remembrance of His mercy; As He spake to our fathers, to Abraham, and to His seed for ever." (Luke 1:46-55)

In other words, all of our deliverance, including forgiveness of sins, and our healings -- both spiritual and physical -- come as a result of our belief upon the Word of God. Deliverance which is quick (living) and powerful and our reception of Jesus -- the Word that became flesh -- who is able to do exceedingly abundantly more than you or I could ever imagine.

Yes, that means the only way He can reveal His abundant love to us is through the Word that was with God and was God, and then dwelt among us so that we might experience His salvation. "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 1:1-18)

Thus, our first and foremost desire should be to seek the Lord and align our desires and teachings with His Word. Because, again, He is the vine. He is the bread of life. He is the One who gives us a fountain to drink from whereby we will never thirst again.

Jesus -- the King of kings and Lord of lords. The Alpha and Omega, the first and the last, the beginning and the end. Press into Jesus today and be filled with His presence. But most of all, don't let anyone lead you astray. Let the Word of God be true and every man a liar. Jesus is our only advocate and mediator.

We will need His wisdom and enlightenment as the days ahead become darker, and false religion more entrenched in disseminating false teachings that have no basis or foundation in the Word of God. And, if you are reading this and do not know Jesus, it is time to repent and ask for His forgiveness. Get yourself a new testament and a notepad (markers too if you are so inclined to make note of what you are learning in the scriptures). Be water baptized in the name of Jesus -- buried in the water so that you can be resurrected into a new life in Him. (Romans 6:1-4; Acts 2:37-42)

"Lord, open the eyes of my heart so that I can be enabled to worship You alone." Receive now consolation from the Word and let God’s peace rule and reign within you  Stand in the offering plate.

And the Grace of Our Lord Was Exceeding Abundant With Faith And Love Which Is In Christ Jesus - Part 1207

"And in those days, when the number of the disciples was multiplied, there arose a murmuring of the Grecians against the Hebrews because their widows were neglected in the daily ministration." (Acts 6:1)

The word Grecian is the Greek word for "hellenists" which is used throughout the New Testament to refer to Jews born in a foreign land and yet still spoke Greek. Note that the author here is not referring to the Gentiles (because at this point in Acts the Gentiles had not yet been grafted in) but to the Jewish widows who were born outside of Jerusalem.

For reference, the Grecians are cited elsewhere in Acts when Barnabas preaches the Lord Jesus to them. In one such example, "the hand of the Lord was upon them and a great number believed and turned unto the Lord." (Acts 9:29; Acts 11:20; Joel 3:6)

As indicated above, the Grecians were concerned that the widows were being neglected in food distribution. Up until this point, the apostles had made a practice of making sure that every man and woman was provided for according to his or her need. We read of similar examples where disciples of Jesus willingly gave their surplus so that none among them lacked. (Acts 2:41, Acts 4:35, and Acts 11:29) 

In this particular case, the apostles did not shirk from their responsibility. Rather, the apostles recognized that there was a need for others to help with the ministering of the gospel.

"Then the twelve called the multitude of the disciples unto them, and said, "It is not reason that we should leave the Word of God, and serve tables. Wherefore, brethren, look ye out among you seven men of honest report, full of the Holy Ghost and wisdom, whom we may appoint over this business, but we will give ourselves continually to prayer, and to the ministry of the Word." (Acts 6:2-4)

Interestingly, there is a similar example cited on the old covenant side, whereby Moses father-in-law raised a similar issue concerning Moses. He asked, "What is this thing that thou doest to they people? Why sittest thou thyself alone, and all the people stand by thee from morning unto even?" And Moses said unto his father in law, "Because the people come unto me to enquire of God. When they have a matter, they come unto me, and I judge between one and another, and I do make them know the statutes of God, and His laws." What did Moses father-in-law say?

"The thing that thou doest is not good. Thou wilt surely: ; Matthew wear away, both thou, and this people that is with thee; for this thing is too heavy for thee. Thou art not able to perform it. Hearken now unto my voice. I will give thee counsel, and God shall be with thee. Be thou for the people to God-ward, that thou mayest bring the causes unto God, and thou shalt teach them ordinances and laws, and shalt show them the way wherein they must walk, and the work they must do. Moreover, thou shalt provide out of all the people, able men, such as fear God, men of truth, hating covetousness, and place such over them ... and let them judge the people at all seasons ..." (Exodus 18:13-23)

The difference between the old covenant and the new testament is that in the latter example, we are "equals" within the body of Christ. As Jesus so aptly put, "I have chosen and ordained you." (John 15:16)

So when the twelve chose Stephen, a man full of faith and of the Holy Ghost, and Philip, and Prochorus, and Nicanor, and Timon, and Parmenas, and Nicolas, a proselyte of Antioch, "whom they set before the apostles" these were united in one accord through the Holy Ghost. 

These men also held the mystery of the faith in a pure conscience, including the mystery of godliness that includes the understanding of who Jesus was (the Word). That is, God manifest in the flesh. (I Timothy 3:7-16; Isaiah 9:6; Matthew 1:21-23) As when Matthias was numbered with the eleven to take part in the ministry and apostleship (from which Judas by transgression fell), he also was with one accord in the good news message of the Kingdom, standing in unison with Peter and the other apostles on the day of Pentecost. (Acts 1:23-Acts 2:14) But I digress.

So, when the twelve prayed, and laid their hands on the seven, the Lord knew the hearts of those that chose to take part in this ministry and apostleship. (Acts 1:24) And, as a consequence of their profession, "the Word of God increased, and the number of the disciples multiplied in Jerusalem greatly, and a great company of the priests were obedient to the faith." (Acts 6:7)

Why? Because the seven (like Jesus' 12 disciples) preached the Word.

One of the seven -- Stephen was a table servant. Mind you, his reputation among the people (and noted in the scripture) was that Stephen was full of faith and power, and did great wonders and miracles among the people. (Acts 6:8) Although not one of the original twelve disciples, Stephen still performed wonders and miracles. This example, in and of itself serves as proof that the Lord did not just perform miracles through His original chosen disciples, but those that followed later.

But there was another attribute among the seven to make note of. That is, Stephen was also full of boldness when it came to preaching Jesus the Christ as our one and only Saviour.

We see this when there arose certain of the synagogue which is called the synagogue of the Libertines, and Cyrenians, and Alexandrians, and of them of Cilicia and of Asia. These were filled with indignation at the doctrine of Stephen, and perhaps, even somewhat envious of the miracles he performed. So, as the scriptures cite, these disputed with Stephen. And yet they were not able to resist the wisdom and the Spirit by which he spake. (Acts 6:9-10)

Indeed, all of these groups disputed the Word with him. But when they could not persuade Stephen from his teaching, they decided to speak against him. Remember, how Jesus had told the rich men casting their gifts into the treasury, that He -- Jesus -- "will give you a mouth and wisdom which all your adversaries shall not be able to gainsay nor resist"? (Luke 21:15) This is what was happening here. 

But Stephen's gospel message didn't change because of his audience. In fact, the message he preached in Acts 7 was very similar to the one preached by Peter (standing with the eleven disciples) on the day of Pentecost. Therein, the first 3,000 Jews (also pricked in their hearts) "gladly" received the gospel. (Acts 2:36-42)

But not here. These instead suborned (or bribed men) to say of Stephen, "We have heard him speak blasphemous words against Moses, and against God." And they stirred up the people, and the elders, and the scribes, and came upon him, and caught him, and brought him to the council. 

Therein, these set up false witnesses which said, "This man ceases not to speak blasphemous words against this holy place, and the Law, for we have heard him say that Jesus of Nazareth shall destroy this place, and shall change the customs which Moses delivered us." (Acts 6:11-14)

Had these read the old covenant scrolls as these learned men were ordained by the authorities of the day, these would have known two things from the scriptures. First, the purpose of the prophesied Messiah or Christ was to change the customs which Moses delivered, because He Himself would save His people from their sin. (Matthew 1:21-23) 

"(For until the law sin was in the world, but sin is not imputed when there is no law. Nevertheless, death reigned from Adam to Moses, even over them that hand not sinned after the similitude of Adam's transgression, who is the figure of Him that was to come. But not as the offence, so also is the free gift. For if through the offence of one many be dead, much more the grace which is by one man -- Jesus Christ -- hath abounded unto many. And not as it was by one that sinned, so is the gift, for the judgement was by one to condemnation, but the free gift of many offences unto justification. For if by one man's offence death reigned by one, much more they which receive abundance of grace and of the gift of righteousness shall reign in life by one, Jesus Christ)." (Romans 5:13-17; I Corinthians 15:21-22)

"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 53:11-12; Isaiah 42:1; Isaiah 43:1; Genesis 49:10)

"Therefore, as by the offence of one judgement, came upon all men to condemnation, even so by the righteousness of one the free gift came upon all men into 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 abound, 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)

Today, we realize that this same persecution that was evident in Jesus' time, and in the apostles' day, is in the world today. The same spirit and response to the Word that eventually led to Stephen's death is still vengeful against those who preach Jesus today. 

Two examples. The first on the day of Pentecost when the people gladly repented and were baptized in Jesus' name, and the second, when Stephen preached the same apostles' doctrine but was hated for the Word. Jesus warned us that the anti-christ was in the world. 

In fact, Jesus said, "If the world hate you, ye know that it hated Me before it hated you ... If they have persecuted Me, they will also persecute you. " (John 15:16-20)

In other words, we are to marvel not if the world hates us, because the worldly spirit first hated Jesus and crucified him. In Stephen's case, a man full of the Holy Ghost, he was willing to boldly proclaim the gospel of Jesus Christ, regardless of the consequences. Like the apostles, he recognized that the true gospel divided the cities, leaving those who would love Jesus and those who would gnash their teeth and close their ears simply because of the precious name of Jesus.

What we need to remember today is that the grace that we have received is sufficient for all seasons. 

Jesus said, "I will never leave thee nor forsake thee." (Hebrews 13:5; Deuteronomy 31:6-8; Philippians 4:6-7)

"And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to [His] purpose." (Romans 8:28)

This may explain why in the last verse of Acts 6, "all that sat in the council, looking steadfastly on [Stephen] saw his face as it had been the face of the angel." (Acts 6:15)

Stand in the offering plate.

(As background, the differences between synagogues could be likened to the variety of churches that are found within our own landscape. For example, the Libertines is a Roman name that signifies freedmen, or "free men" who were sons of Jews that had likely obtained their freedom in Rome. The Cyrenians, as the name suggests are natives of Cyrene from whence many Jews came. It is believed that the Cyrenians and the Libertines may have belonged to the same synagogue, or conversely, had distinct synagogues unique to them. To my knowledge, this is not well established. The Alexandrians had a peculiar synagogue which was at Jerusalem and that is known because the Jewish made reference to it in their writings. Often, when something needed repaired, the men from Alexandria were summoned and thus, from this re-settlement of people, a synagogue was established. Saul of Tarsus was from the synagogue attended by the Cilicians).

The Holy Ghost This Signifying That the Way Into the Holiest of All Was Not Yet Made Manifest While the First Tabernacle Was Yet Standing - Part 1206

In Him -- Jesus -- we have redemption through His holy Spirit blood. We have found in Him our deliverance. In other words, we have been ransomed from captivity. He bought our freedom so that we might have life. Not just life on this earth but life eternal as well. 

For those of you who are not familiar with the scriptures, the word "redemption" means the remission and forgiveness of our sins. Jesus, the incarnation of the unseen God. God manifest in the flesh. Indeed, He is the embodiment of the Spirit of God. God Himself is the second Adam, the firstborn and the Head of all creation. 

He is the Word of God spoken through the mouth of God’s own body. And they shall call His name Jesus for He shall save His people from their sin. (Matthew 1:21-23)

When Paul asked the question, "Who are you Lord?" the response is simple. "I am Jesus." Jesus said to some unbelievers during His time on earth that if they were to die without exercising their faith, (as in if you do not believe that I AM), then they shall die in their sins. This outcome, even though God is not willing that any should perish. 

When God became our Saviour on the cross, He was on a salvation mission. And two thousand years later, He is still on that same a salvation mission, long suffering so that one and all can come to His throne of grace. He is inviting us to the wedding feast. He asks us to come all of us who are heavy laden and He will give us rest.

Indeed, in all things He shall have the pre-eminence over all created things. All things were made by Him and for Him. It is by Him that all things exist. Without Him there is nothing made that was made for by Him the universe was created. All things He created whether those things are in Heaven or on Earth. (John 1:1-18; I Timothy 3:16; Isaiah 9:6)

He created the visible and the invisible, the spiritual and the material. God even created the angels and archangels, including all the powers of Heaven. Even the spirit world with its kings and kingdoms and its rulers and authorities were all created by Almighty God. 

All of these were created by Him and for Him. All was made by Jesus the Christ for His own use and glory.  

Throughout it all, in every day that passes, Jesus takes precedence. Why? Because He is God alone and in Him and through Him the universe is sustained and embraced as one harmonious whole. Jesus is the Head of the body, the assembly, the church, and the congregation. He Himself is the firstborn from the dead. He is also the church’s source of life. Life. We may not be privy to all the details but we do know that our life began in Him and through Him. He occupies the foremost place. He is justly called Lord of All.

For He willed that in Himself all the fullness of His divine perfection chose to live. For in Him the complete being of God who by His own choice came to live. God wanted all of Himself to be manifest as a Son so that all the universe should dwell in Him. And now, having made peace through the blood of His cross, by Himself as a Son, He came to reconcile us. He brought us a new testament, sealed with His very blood.

And, as a consequence, He won back everything to Himself. It was through Himself as a Son that God cleared a path for everything and everyone to come to Him.

For it pleased God that we who were at one time estranged and enemies of Him and in our minds at war with Him, living in evil wickedness, that we can now access the gift of salvation. Now He has bought us back as His friends. He has by Himself as a Son reconciled us to Him. By the means of the sacrifice of His own human flesh and blood body in death at Calvary, God Himself as a Son did all of this on our behalf. This, so He may present us before Himself as dedicated men and women without blemish and innocent in His sight.

The body of Christ. His bride.

Blameless and un-accusable before Him. For you shall have no other Gods before me. The scriptures state, "My glory, I will not give to another." God has glorified His Son Jesus. And what do the scriptures state? That every knee shall bow and every tongue confess that Jesus the Christ IS indeed Lord. Herein is the Holy Ghost glorified for He who has the Son has the Father also.

These words are offered in order that you may know Him personally, who if you peruse the unveiling of Him according to the revealed Word is life eternal. It is then that we will and can worship Him alone. God Himself in the face of Jesus. 

Again, the question is asked - who are you Lord? I AM JESUS. Stand in the offering plate with your blessed Saviour and be made whole. Your sins are forgiven you. Peace to all who are in Jesus the Christ.

And the Word Was Made Flesh and Dwelt Among Us, And We Beheld His Glory- Part 1205

"Preach the Word, be instant in season, out of season, reprove, rebuke, exhort with all long suffering and doctrine ... for the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine, but after their own lusts shall they heap to themselves teachers, having itching ears, and they shall turn their ears from the truth, and shall be turned into fables." (II Timothy 4:2-4)

Within the majority of the modern day church community, we are witnessing the turning away from the apostles' doctrine that Peter (standing with the eleven other apostles) delivered to the first 3,000 souls saved on the day of Pentecost. Those new believers that gladly received the good news gospel of their Lord God and Saviour, including repentance and water baptism in the name of Jesus. (Acts 2:36-42)

Today, however, rather than abiding in Jesus -- the King of kings and Lord of lords -- or seeking His counsel and wisdom through His Word, the preference is fine-sounding, eloquent teachers spinning out their personal take on scripture, without you and I ever seeking an understanding of these same scriptures on our own.

The difficulty with this practice is this. If we do not know what the Word actually says, how can we preach the Word with all long suffering and doctrine? How can we be instant both in and out of season? Or, in the increasing of our faith, acquire an ability to sharpen one another, as the apostles did?

For example, when Paul, a servant of God and an apostles of Jesus Christ (according to the faith of God's elect, and the acknowledging of the truth which is after godliness) wrote to Titus, he was adamant about "holding fast the faithful Word as he had been taught, that he may be able by sound doctrine to exhort and to convince the gainsayers. For there are many unruly and vain talkers and deceivers, specially they of the circumcision whose mouths must be stopped -- who subvert whole houses, teaching things which they ought not, for filthy lucre's sake." (Titus 1:1-11)

There are many who refuse to continue steadfastly in the apostles doctrine, in breaking of bread, in fellowship and in prayers. (Acts 2:42)

Note for purposes of clarity that Paul here was specifically referring to the Cretians, whereby a prophet of their own even proclaimed the Cretians to be always liars, evil beasts, slow bellies. (Titus 1:12) But sadly, we see this same type of issue emerging in the modern day religious culture today, willfully blinding entire families from knowing the truth.

That is, Jesus is the ONLY mediator between God and man. Jesus is the Way, the Truth, and the Life. Jesus is the bread of life. Jesus is the door to salvation and eternal life.

Why is this important? Because there are too many new believers who are still learning and feeding from the milk (although I am sure this point can be equally applied to many believers who consider themselves mature).  Still, the scriptures state -- "for when for the time we ought to be teachers, ye have need that one teach you again which be the first principles of the oracles of God and are become such as have need of milk and not of strong meat." (Hebrews 5:12-13)

Why do we need strong meat? Because it belongs to those who by reason of use have their senses exercised, to discern both good and evil. Only then can we really begin to grow in our faith journey toward perfection, leaving the principles of the doctrine of Christ behind.

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

The point is this. Time is short. And, as well, it is critical that believers in Jesus the Christ by faith understand the Godhead, and not pray to an "unknown god" as the apostles discovered on one occasion in the book of Acts. In fact, we need to know firsthand who God is -- and, that the Word referred to in the scriptures is in fact Jesus.

Yes, the Word is the prophesied Christ (or Messiah) that prophets foretold of hundreds of years before He was born. The Word is both Lord and Christ. (Acts 2:36) And we are sanctified through Thy Word.

"And they shall call His name Jesus, for He shall save His people from their sin." (Matthew 1:21-23)

We also know about the Word from the first chapter of John, which states: "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." (John 1:1-2)

Note that verse 2 says "the same" was with God -- and not another He, as modern day religion presents.

Further, "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 1:10-12)

Indeed, the Word was made flesh and dwelt among us. (John 1:14)

Sadly, this is only one doctrine that is not being accurately taught today in the church community. There are many others too, but it does not have to be this way. James wrote:  "If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that gives to all liberally, and upbraids not, and it shall be given him. But let him ask in faith, nothing wavering. For he that wavers is like a wave of the sea driven with the wind and tossed. For let not that man think that he shall receive any thing of the Lord. A double minded man is unstable in all his ways." (James 1:1-8)

Instead, let's study His Word for our own understanding and edification. Most of all, as James wrote -- "do not err, my beloved brethren. Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and cometh down from the Father of lights, with whom is no variableness, neither shadow of turning, of His own will begat He us with the Word of truth, that we should be a kind of first fruits of His creatures." (James 1:16-18)

And, don't forget to "be ye doers of the Word and not hearers only, deceiving your own selves." (James 1:22) Study the Word, as a workman does so that not only you can profit, but those to whom you preach the gospel of the kingdom. Stand in the offering plate.