Mary Rejoiced In God Her Saviour - Part 1317

The question is this. Having read what the scriptures reveal, can we really believe that Peter was the Rock that JESUS spoke of in Matthew 16? Certainly, in view of what the Bible reveals, we need to reassess the religious traditions that are contrary to the Word of God. Matthew offers yet another example worth mentioning here. I

13. When JESUS came into the coasts of Ceasarea Philippi, JESUS asked his disciples, "Whom do men say that I the Son of man am?"
14. And they said, "Some say that thou art John the Baptist. Some say Elias and others, Jeremiah or one of the prophets."
15. JESUS said to them, "But who do you say that I am?"
16. Simon Peter answered and said, "You are the Christ, the Son of the living God."
17. JESUS answering said, "Peter, blessed you are for it was not flesh and blood that has revealed to you that I am the Christ the Son of the Holy Spirit. This revelation of who I am has been given to you by MY Father from Heaven."
18. And I JESUS say to you Peter, that upon this revelation [that I Jesus am the Christ the Son of the Holy Ghost] I [GOD’S Only Begotten Son] will build my church and the gates [the religious armies] of hell, they shall not prevail against me."
19. "And I will give unto you [My chosen apostles] the keys of understanding whereby the door into the kingdom of Heaven opens."

JESUS tells His disciples that they should tell no one that He was JESUS the Christ. However, in verse 21, we read that from that time onward, JESUS began to show His disciples how He must go to Jerusalem and while there He must suffer many things from the elders, chief priests and scribes and be killed and ultimately raised again the third day. Continuing in verse 22, the scriptures state that,

22. Peter upon hearing these things spoken of by JESUS, being offended at such sayings took JESUS and began to rebuke Him saying, "Be it far from you Lord that these things should befall you."
23. JESUS, upon hearing these words spoken by Peter turned and said to Peter, "Get behind me satan. Your words [Peter] offend Me. For Peter, you are opposing that which has been willed by the Holy Spirit of God."

Therefore, as we read in this scriptural example, Peter is not a "rock" to be elevated in status. Like all of Adam’s prone to sin offspring after him, we all stand in need of a Saviour. This need of a Saviour applies equally to Mary the chosen and willing surrogate mother of JESUS the Christ who exploding with enthusiasm declared that her spirit had rejoiced in GOD her SAVIOUR.

We also read in Acts 1 that the disciples cast lots and prayed to see who among them should be chosen to replace Judas. As we see, Mathias was chosen and from henceforth Mathias was numbered with the eleven other chosen apostles. It is also important to note here the required necessary credentials that makes one eligible to become an apostle from a scriptural perspective.

The other good news is that if you and I continue in JESUS' words, we will be His disciples indeed.

Stand in the offering plate.

The Ushering In of the New Testament Church - Part 1316

For those who are not aware, there was a change made to Matthew 28:19, whereby Jesus is telling His disciples to go into all the world and preach the gospel, baptizing them in His name. But sadly, that is not the instructions we read today, and it is because the text has been changed. What follows are the details showing how the current false doctrine of water baptism in the titles came to pass. The correct way to be baptized is in the name of Jesus Christ, according to Acts 2:36-47. Therein, we see the first 3,000 souls saved, and water baptized, ushering in the new testament church.  Jesus is the Head of the Church, and this has not changed.

What follows is a partial list of evidence disputing the authenticity of Matthew 28:19 A Collection of Evidence Against the Traditional Wording of Matthew 28:19 written by Clinton D. Willis [CWillis@ipa.net]

Catholic Cardinal Joseph Ratzinger:(today’s pope ref.) He makes this confession as to the origin of the chief Trinity text of Matthew 28:19. "The basic form of our [Matthew 28:19 Trinitarian]profession of faith took shape during the course of the second and third centuries in connection with the ceremony of baptism. So far as its place of origin is concerned, the text [Matthew 28:19]came from the city of Rome." The Trinity baptism and text of Matthew 28:19 therefore did not originate from the original Church that started in Jerusalem around AD 33. It was rather, as the evidence proves, a later invention of Roman Catholicism -- completely fabricated. Unfortunately, very few know about these historical facts.

"The Demonstratio Evangelica" by Eusebius: Eusebius was the Church historian and Bishop of Caesarea. On page 152, Eusebius quotes the early book of Matthew that he had in his library in Caesarea. According to this eyewitness of an unaltered Book of Matthew, it could have been the original book or the first copy of the original book of Matthew. Eusebius informs us of Jesus' actual words to his disciples in the original text of Matthew 28:19: "With one word and voice He said to His disciples: "Go, and make disciples of all nations in My Name, teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you." That "Name" is Jesus.

On page 61 Professor and Church historian Walker, reviles the true origin and purpose of Matthew 28:19. This text is the first man-made Roman Catholic Creed that was the prototype for the later Apocryphal Apostles' Creed. Matthew 28:19 was invented along with the Apocryphal Apostles' Creed to counter so-called heretics and gnostics that baptized in the name of Jesus Christ! Marcion although somewhat mixed up in some of his doctrine still baptized his converts the Biblical way in the name of Jesus Christ. Matthew 28:19 is the first non-Biblical Roman Catholic Creed! The spurious Catholic text of Matthew 28:19 was invented to support the newer triune - Trinity -doctrine. Therefore, Matthew 28:19 is not the "Great Commission of Jesus Christ." Matthew 28:19 is the great Catholic hoax! Acts 2:38, Luke 24:47, and I Corinthians 6:11 give us the ancient original words and teaching of Jesus! Further to this point, is it not also strange that Matthew 28:19 is missing from the old manuscripts of Sinaiticus, Curetonianus and Bobiensis?

The Catholic University of America in Washington, D. C. 1923, New Testament Studies Number 5: "The Lord's Command To Baptize An Historical Critical Investigation." by Bernard Henry Cuneo. Quoting from page 27, "The passages in Acts and the Letters of St. Paul. These passages seem to point to the earliest form as baptism in the name of the Lord. ... Is it possible to reconcile these facts with the belief that Christ commanded his disciples to baptize in the trine form? Had Christ given such a command, it is urged, the Apostolic Church would have followed him, and we should have some trace of this obedience in the New Testament. No such trace can be found. The only explanation of this silence, according to the anti-traditional view, is this the short christological (Jesus Name) formula was (the) original, and the longer trine formula was a later development."

To you and I is the Word of Salvation sent. Therefore, save yourself from this untoward generation and be obedient, obeying the message of the Holy Spirit as recorded in Acts chapter 2 verses 37-42. It was here that the first 3000 believers were gladly baptized into the Name of the Lord Jesus the Christ.  Peace to all as you submit to the command of the Holy Spirit of JESUS!

And, Having Made Peace Through the Blood of His Cross, By Him to Reconcile All Things Unto Himself, By Himself -- Part 1315

"Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature. Old things are passed away. Behold, all things are become new. And all things are of God, who hath reconciled us to Himself by Jesus Christ, and hath given to us the ministry of reconciliation. To wit, that God was in Christ, reconciling the world unto Himself, not imputing their trespasses unto them; and hath committed unto us the Word of reconciliation. Now then we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God did beseech you by us. We pray you in Christ's stead, be ye reconciled to God." (II Corinthians 5:17-20)

In Christ's stead, delivering the apostolic doctrine to us as Jesus did, "until the day in which He was taken up, after that -- He THROUGH the Holy Ghost -- had given commandments unto the apostles whom He had chosen." (Acts 1:2; Acts 2:36-47)

And then after reconciling us to Himself by Jesus Christ, and no longer imputing our trespasses against us, He commits us unto the Word of reconciliation, giving us the ministry of reconciliation so that we can be ambassadors for Christ.

Jesus said, "I have chosen and ordained you." (John 15:16)

While dwelling on earth, we saw a glimpse of God in Christ, reconciling the world unto Himself. The visible image of the unseen God. Whereby God Himself who knew no sin translated into the Kingdom of His dear Son, whom He hath appointed in these last days heir of all things. (Hebrews 1:1-13) The Word made flesh and dwelt among us. (John 1:1-18) God coming forth as a "mighty man" so that we might have forgiveness of sins, and be clothed in His righteousness. (Isaiah 42:13) Jesus telling His disciples, "I and My Father are One." (John 10:30)

So, before getting sidetracked too far, what does the ministry of reconciliation mean? Or, "to wit that God was in Christ" reconciling the world unto Himself? Often, when we read scriptures, we read passed the words and underlying meanings that we do not understand, digesting only the portions that are easy and straightforward. This is akin to eating only the food on a dinner plate that we like, eating just enough to grow. In that context, we are similar, growing in the Lord without necessarily being pushed beyond the stated text for His wisdom and knowledge.

But what happens when we approach the Word of God from this singular lens? I would suggest that we end up missing the very things of God who reconciled us to Himself by Jesus Christ for a reason. (II Corinthians 5:18) 

Miriam-Webster dictionary defines "reconciliation" as -- "the act of causing two people or groups to become friendly again after an argument or disagreement" and/or "the process of finding a way to make two different ideas, facts, etc., exist or be true at the same time."

Jesus wholly satisfied both definitions. First, Jesus brought both the Jews and the Gentiles together, declaring that there is no difference between them. "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." (Romans 10:12)

"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." (Galatians 3:28)

"Where there is neither Greek nor Jew, circumcision nor uncircumcision, Barbarian, Scythian, bond nor free: but Christ is all, and in all." (Colossians 3:11)

Second, when the day of Pentecost was fully come, and the Holy Ghost fell upon them like cloven tongues, the people from surrounding nations heard them speaking in their own language. "And they were all filled with the Holy Ghost and began to speak with other tongues, as the Spirit gave them utterance ... now when this was noised abroad, the multitude came together and heard them speak in his own language, and they were all amazed and marveled ..." (Acts 2:1-21) 

After repenting and being baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus, these were found to be in one accord, "continu[ing] steadfastly in the apostles' doctrine and fellowship, and in breaking of bread, and in prayers ... and they continuing daily with one accord in the 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." (Acts 2:36-47)

Indeed, the reconciliation message that we see emerging in the new testament was a consequence of the Lord declaring peace and good will to all.

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

(Gentiles, for those who may not know are those who are not Jewish in decent, or to be more specific, non-Israelites.)

"And, having made peace through the blood of His cross, by Him to reconcile all things unto Himself; by Him, [I say], whether [they be] things in earth, or things in heaven." (Colossians 1:20)

All the fullness of the Godhead dwelling bodily in Him. (Colossians 1:19; Colossians 2:9) God manifest in the flesh. (I Timothy 3:16)  He was in the world and the world was made by Him and the world knew Him not. (John 1:10-11)

"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." (Romans 5:10)

As in water baptism, we are buried with Christ and resurrected too when we come out from the water. (Romans 6:3-4)

But there is another component of the scripture above which is rarely highlighted. That is, "all things are of God, who hath reconciled us to Himself by Jesus Christ, and hath given to us the ministry of reconciliation. To wit, that God was in Christ, reconciling the world unto Himself, not imputing their trespasses unto them; and hath committed unto us the Word of reconciliation. Now then we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God did beseech you by us." (II Corinthians 5:17-20)

When we are reconciled to our Lord God and Saviour by Jesus Christ, we are not only given the ministry of reconciliation (according to this specific passage of scripture) but He also commits unto us -- as believers in Jesus the Christ by faith -- the Word of reconciliation so that we become ambassadors for the good news gospel of Jesus Christ.

"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. For if we have been planted together in the likeness of His death, we shall be also in the likeness of His resurrection, knowing this, that our old man is crucified with [Him] that the body of sin might be destroyed, that henceforth we should not serve sin." (Romans 6:1-6)

Why? Because "he that is dead is freed from sin. Now if we be dead with Christ, we believe that we shall also live with Him, knowing that Christ being raised from the dead dieth no more. Death has no more dominion over him. For in that He died, He died unto sin once, but in that He lives, He lives unto God." (Romans 6:7-10)

Are you thinking about what message you might want to proclaim? I found this scripture which may be helpful toward that endeavour. Let's look at the fourth chapter of I Peter 4:

"For this cause was the gospel preached also to them that are dead, that they might be judged according to men in the flesh, but live according to God in the spirit. But the end of all things is at hand; be ye therefore sober, and watch unto prayer. And above all things "have fervent charity among yourselves" for charity shall cover the multitude of sins. Use hospitality one to another without grudging. As every man hath received the gift, minister the same one to another, as good stewards of the manifold grace of God ..." (I Peter 4:6-10)

All this today so that each and every one of us would realize how truly thankful we should be -- that Almighty God was willing enough to reach down to us, in order that we might receive by faith His miraculous gift of salvation,. 

"But after that the kindness and love of God our Saviour toward man appeared, not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to His mercy He saved us, by the washing of regeneration and renewing of the Holy Ghost -- which He shed on us abundantly through Jesus Christ our Saviour; that being justified by His grace, we should be made heirs according to the hope of eternal life." (Titus 3:4-7)

"For the grace of God that brings salvation hath appeared to all men." (Titus 3:11) 

And hopefully, also looking for that glorious appearing of the great God and our Saviour Jesus Christ who gave Himself for us, that He might redeem us from all iniquity, and purify unto Himself a peculiar people, zealous of good works. (Titus 2:13-15) 

Stand in the offering plate. 

And This Is The Promise That He Hath Promised Us - Part 1314

In searching for the names used by God, it is critical that believers in Jesus by faith understand that we no longer live in the old covenant dispensation. The time period in which we live now is the new testament. (Hebrews 9:15-18) This current period is referred to by many as the dispensation of grace, primarily, because the new testament begins with God declaring peace and good will to all.

"Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men." (Luke 2:14)
At that time, Zacharias, the father of John the baptist was filled with the Holy Ghost. He prophesied, saying, "Blessed [be] the Lord God of Israel; for He hath visited and redeemed His people, and hath raised up an horn of salvation for us in the house of His servant David.

As he spake by the mouth of His holy prophets, which have been since the world began, that we should be saved from our enemies, and from the hand of all that hate us -- to perform the mercy [promised ] to our fathers, and to remember His holy covenant; the oath which He sware to our father Abraham.

That He would grant unto us that we being delivered out of the hand of our enemies might serve Him without fear, in holiness and righteousness before Him, all the days of our life.

And thou child, shalt be called the prophet of the Highest, and thou shalt go before the face of the Lord to prepare His ways. To give knowledge of salvation unto His people by the remission of their sins. Through the tender mercy of our God, whereby the dayspring from on high hath visited us, to give light to them that sit in darkness and in the shadow of death, to guide our feet into the way of peace." (Luke 1:67-79)

For those who may not know, the word "dayspring" literally is the same as Messiah.

Note here that the word of the Lord in prophecy is stating that the Lord God of Israel will visit and redeem His people and hath raised up an horn of salvation for us in the house of His servant David. Zacharias is confirming earlier prophecies found in Isaiah, when prophecy indicates that God will come forth as a mighty man. (Isaiah 42:13)

"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)
Thus, "God who at sundry times and in diverse manners spake in time past unto the fathers by the prophets, hath in these last days spoken unto us by [His] Son whom He hath appointed heir of all things, by whom also He made the worlds, 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, as He hath by inheritance obtained a more excellent name than they." (Hebrews 1:1-13)

In other words, God has given us a new name that differs from the names that God used in the old testament.  The ONLY name whereby we must be saved, and a name that is above all other names.

"Neither is there salvation in any other: for there is none other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved." (Acts 4:12)

"Being found in appearance as a man, He humbled Himself by becoming obedient to the point of death, even death on a cross. For this reason also, God highly exalted Him, and bestowed on Him the name which is ABOVE every name, so that at the name of Jesus EVERY KNEE WILL BOW, of those who are in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and that every tongue will confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father." (Philippians 2:8-11)

Yes,, the only name whereby we must be saved in the here and now is the name of the Lord Jesus Christ.

"And she shall bring forth a son, and thou shalt call His name Jesus: for He shall save His people from their sins." (Matthew 1:21)

Now all this was done, that it might be fulfilled which was spoken of the Lord by the prophet, saying, "Behold, a virgin shall be with child, and shall bring forth a son, and they shall call His name Emmanuel, which being interpreted is, "God with us." (Matthew 1:21-23)

His name not being a way of salvation but the ONLY way of salvation.

Jesus said, "I am the Way, the Truth, and the Life. No man comes to the Father but by Me." (John 14:6-7)

Jesus confirms this name numerous times in the scriptures. In Acts 9, we read of a certain disciple at Damascus, named Annanias and to him the Lord said in a vision concerning Saul/Paul -- "Go thy way, for He is a chosen vessel unto Me, to bear My name before the Gentiles and kings, and the children of Israel, for I will shew him how great things he must suffer for My name's sake." (Acts 9:3-18)

Jesus said, "Verily, verily, I say unto you, "Before Abraham was, I am." (John 8:58)

Jesus said, "All power is given unto Me in heaven and in earth ..." (Matthew 28:19)

"And whatsoever ye do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God and the Father by Him." (Colossians 3:17)

James referred to the Lord Jesus Christ as the Lord of glory. (James 2:1) And in Titus, God our Saviour. (Titus 3:4-7) 

"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 -- the Word of life (for the life was manifested and we have seen it, and bear witness, and shew 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 . And these things write we unto you that your joy may be full." (I John 1:1-10)

God manifest in the flesh. (I Timothy 3:16)

"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; John 1:1-18)

So the next time someone asks you who God is, or His name, stand firm knowing that there is only One Lord and His name is Jesus Christ the righteous. He is the propitiation for our sins, and not for our's only, but also for the whole world, and hereby we do know Him, if we keep His commandments." (I John 2:1-3)

Yes, there will be those who will still hold to the prominent names of the old testament, but without any scriptural foundation to support their position. Please direct them to read Acts 17:23-28:

"For as I passed by, and beheld your devotions, I found an altar with this inscription, TO THE UNKNOWN GOD. Whom therefore ye ignorantly worship, Him declare I unto you." Even God winked at this ignorance. But who did Paul declare?

Jesus - "in whom we live and move and have our being!" (Acts 17:28)

Stand in the offering plate.

Jesus Said, "Though Ye Believe Not Me, Believe the Works That Ye May Know, and Believe, That the Father Is In Me And I In Him" - Part 1313

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

As we know from the scriptures, God was in Christ reconciling the world unto Himself. (II Corinthians 5:19) We also know that prior to Jesus laying down His life for our transgressions, He spoke to His disciples privately (Judas having already left) saying, "Believe thou not that I am in the Father, and the Father in Me? The words that I speak unto you I speak not of Myself: but the Father that dwells in Me. He does the works." (John 14:10) 

Herein, Jesus was responding to Philip's question -- "Lord, shew us the Father and it suffices us." Jesus said unto him, "Have I been so long time with you and yet hast thou not known Me, Philip? He that hath seen Me hath seen the Father. And how say thou then, "Shew us the Father?" (John 14:4-9)

Jesus also said, "Believe Me that I [am] in the Father and the Father in Me, or else believe Me for the very works sake. Verily, verily, I say unto you -- He that believes on Me, the works that I do shall he do also; and greater [works] that these shall He do, because I go unto My Father, and whatsoever ye shall ask in My name, that will I do that the Father may be glorified in the Son.

If ye shall ask any thing in My name, I will do it. 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 sees Him not, neither knows Him but ye know Him for He dwells with you and shall be in you. I will not leave you comfortless. I will come to you." (John 14:11-18)

Why is Jesus saying these things to His disciples? Because He knew that His time on earth was coming to a close. To that end, it was necessary that the patterns of things in the heavens should be purified with the shedding of blood because without the shedding of blood there was to be no remission of sin. (Hebrews 9:22-24)

The only remedial atoning blood was that Holy undefiled blood of the Holy Ghost that was sacrificed freely, and yet, with agonizing torture, administered by the hands of fallen, unbelieving and religious fanatics of that time. In their ignorance, and intent on crucifying the Lord of glory, the judicial system, at the conclusion of their proceeding had issued a verdict that stated, "I find no fault in Him." (Luke 23:3-16; John 19:4-6)

The scriptures show that the presiding judge proceeds to wash his hands of the situation -- as if soap and water were capable of removing him from any awareness of conscious guilt. In so doing, he passed his authoritative power into the hands of a premeditative murderous multitude, who were more than willing to rid the earth of the King of kings and Lord of lords. As a consequence, we see firsthand their religion exposed and their yokes of bondage revealed. Being imposed by religious leaders upon men, the so-called shepherds feeding themselves, not caring for the sheep.

"And the Word of the LORD came unto me, saying, "Son of man, prophesy against the shepherds of Israel, prophesy, and say unto them, "Thus saith the Lord GOD unto the shepherds; "Woe [be] to the shepherds of Israel that do feed themselves! Should not the shepherds feed the flocks? Ye eat the fat, and ye clothe you with the wool, ye kill them that are fed: [but] ye feed not the flock.

The diseased have ye not strengthened, neither have ye healed that which was sick, neither have ye bound up [that which was] broken, neither have ye brought again that which was driven away, neither have ye sought that which was lost; but with force and with cruelty have ye ruled them. And they were scattered, because there is no shepherd: and they became meat to all the beasts of the field, when they were scattered." (Ezekiel 34:1-5)

Today, the so-called shepherds, responsible for administering the good news gospel of Jesus Christ are fleecing the flock. Unfortunately, many of the sheep seem to be oblivious to the fact that they are being milked into poverty. That is the reason the Lord Himself carries us into His sheepfold. We were totally lost, and how but He -- the Lord of glory loved us enough to come forth a mighty man, so that we could receive His gift of eternal life. (Isaiah 42:13)

(The Lord Jesus gave us a viable option to the question -- How shall we escape if we neglect so great a salvation? -- but I digress).

This salvation, being purchased not with silver or gold, but rather by one who is called the Lamb of God, whose innocent blood poured forth from the veins of the Holy Ghost on earth. In this case, the earth being the womb of mankind. This redemptive blood is the remedy for all sin, offered freely to everyone, including those sinning wilfully in ignorance.

It is for this reason that whosoever will call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved. The "whosoever" can receive redemption and eternal life right here and right now.

What is His name? The name of JESUS. You will recall that the angel declared to Joseph that the child’s name was to be JESUS ... Emmanuel being interpreted, God with us. (Matthew 1:21-23)

"For He shall save His people from their sins." (Matthew 1:21)

The Name of JESUS is above every other name in heaven and on earth (Acts 4:12; Philippians 2:9) Many descriptive title names have been advanced as if they were actual names. Such is not the case, because the are not names but rather descriptive titles. In this context, it does not matter how beautifully rendered they may be, they are still not names.

Jacob of old wrestled all night with an angel. In so doing, Jacob was determined to obtain the angel's name. He stated, "I will not let you go until you bless me. Tell me your name." If one is desirous to be blessed from the top of your head to the soles of your feet, I urge you to embrace the name of Jesus. Your heart will burn within you as He talks to you and guides you into the path of righteousness.

This is the message that Peter (standing with the eleven) was delivering on the day of Pentecost. That is,  "Therefore let all the house of Israel know assuredly, that God hath made the same Jesus, whom ye have crucified, both Lord and Christ." (Acts 2:36)

The Lord of Glory's name is Jesus! He introduced Himself as being Jesus. The early believers went everywhere preaching Jesus. Unlike today. where YHWH with its inserted vowels are advanced as being God’s so called name, whereas in fact it is nothing other than the incommunicable name of a Hebrew God. If it be incommunicable, then why are so many running everywhere endeavouring to communicate that which is inconceivable.

I can tell you. Just like in the day when the apostles were commanded not to preach in the name of the Lord Jesus, we have those self-declared authorities doing the very same thing today. Any name but Jesus!

Still, there is only one name that is above every other name, and that name is JESUS. He is the only name that can forgive your sins. JESUS said, "I am the Way, the Truth, and the Life. No man comes to the Father but by Me." (John 14:6)

And if there is any doubt, please re-read Philippians 2:9-11: "Wherefore God also hath highly exalted Him, and given Him a name which is ABOVE every name, that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of things in heaven, and things in earth, and things under the earth; and that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father."

Peace be in Jesus name. Stand in the offering plate.

That Being Justified By His Grace, We Should Be Made Heirs According to The Hope of Eternal Life - Part 1312

"Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct thy paths." (Proverbs 35:3-6)

There is some good counsel from continuing in the faith grounded and settled and not moving away from the hope which can only be found in the good news gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ. (Colossians 1:23) Indeed, the first commandment of the Lord (both in the old covenant and in this current new testament dispensation of grace) clearly states: 

And Jesus answered him, "The first of all the commandments is, "Hear, O Israel; The Lord our God is One Lord." And thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind, and with all thy strength. This is the first commandment." (Mark 12:28; Deuteronomy 6:4)

When we seek the Lord with all our heart, soul, mind and strength, (and study His Word for understanding, showing ourselves approved unto God) what happens?  Scripture states that our eyes are opened and the veil that held us captive and bound removed. We turn away from the darkness -- from the power of satan unto God, so that we might receive forgiveness of sins and the inheritance among them which are sanctified by faith in Jesus. (Acts 26:15-18)

Moreover, we begin to understand the depth and the breadth that can only be found in the love and kindness of God our Saviour when He toward man appeared. (Titus 3:4-7)

This is why "if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature. Old things are passed away. Behold, all things are become new. And ALL things are of God, who hath reconciled us to Himself by Jesus Christ, and hath given to us the ministry of reconciliation." (II Corinthians 5:17-20)

Therefore, when we are in Christ, having repented and been water baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus, we become/are a new creature. The old things have passed away and all things going forward are become new. This transformation that emerges as a consequence of loving the Lord with our all is reported repeatedly in the scriptures.

For example, our minds are renewed.

"And have put on the new [man], which is renewed in knowledge after the image of Him that created him." (Colossians 3:10)

"And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God." (Romans 12:2)

Our strength is renewed. 

"But they that wait upon the LORD shall renew [their] strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; [and] they shall walk, and not faint." (Isaiah 40:31)

Our bodies are renewed as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable unto God.

"I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, [which is] your reasonable service." (Romans 12:1)

We are given a new heart, whereby the deceits and innermost thoughts of our hearts are made pure.

"A new heart also will I give you, and a new S/spirit will I put within you: and I will take away the stony heart out of your flesh, and I will give you an heart of flesh." (Ezekiel 36:26; Jeremiah 17:9-10)

Our first love for Jesus -- who is both Lord and Christ -- is renewed in Him daily.  (Acts 2:36) Our faith restored and sustained by His love.

"Restore unto me the joy of Thy salvation; and uphold me [with Thy] free Spirit." (Psalms 51:12)

As we seek Jesus, we are prompted to think upon the heavenly. 

" ... whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things [are] honest, whatsoever things [are] just, whatsoever things [are] pure, whatsoever things [are] lovely, whatsoever things [are] of good report; if [there be] any virtue, and if [there be] any praise, think on these things." (Philippians 4:8)

And when we do, there is therefore now no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit, for the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus hath made us free from the law of sin and death. (Romans 8:1-2) 

Not because of our own good works, but because of the salvation plan decided by the Lord of hosts before our world was ever formed. He decided to be victorious over all the principalities and powers of this world!

"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 5:17-20)

His Word.

"And the 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)

Stand in the offering plate. 

Take My Yoke Upon You and Learn of Me, For I Am Meek and Lowly in Heart, and Ye Shall Find Rest Unto Your Souls - Part 1311

This post pertains to the universal proclamation of the Gospel.

The scriptures state that because of their unbelief, the Jews exiled themselves from the blessings that had been offered freely to each and every one who believed in the One God -- who had, down through the ages, set forth great and precious promises. Indeed, God Himself appears in flesh to actuate all the afore promised blessings. (Isaiah 9:6; I Timothy 3:16; John 1:1-18)

First, the prerequisite being that God by Himself must purchase redemption. Redemption then ushers in a new age of Grace and Mercy. Within this context, the Gentiles believed and received the afore mentioned promises. They did so not because they were deserving of such but rather they inherited the promises even as Abraham had in days of yore. They simply believed that God alone can save and as such, it was accounted to them as righteousness.

"By faith, Abraham when he was called to go out into a place which he should after receive for an inheritance, obeyed, and he went out, not knowing whither he went. By faith, he sojourned in the land of promise, as in a strange country, dwelling in tabernacles with Isaac and Jacob, the heirs with him of the same promise. For he looked for a city which hath foundations, whose builder and maker is God." (Hebrews 11:8-12)

But I digress. If we read the scriptures, we learn that JESUS told the Jews that the promise of the Kingdom of God would be taken away from them and given to another nation -- if they did not believe. We also read that a kingdom must be established on principles and JESUS -- God with us -- sowed the seed of the first principles in both Word and deed. (Matthew 1:21-23)

This is the Gospel of the Kingdom of God.

Every kingdom has a door of entry. In fact, GOD in the man JESUS the Christ is the ‘passport required’ to show that one is a citizen of the Kingdom of God. There is only ONE door. This is the gospel message we are to preach to all nations starting at Jerusalem. Preaching repentance and remission of sins to all nations. The first 3,000 souls to believe were told to repent and be baptized into the name of JESUS who is the Christ for the remission of all sin. (Acts 2:38)

And upon obediently doing so they received the promised gift of the Holy Ghost to indwell them. The same offer stands today! Jesus -- the same yesterday, today and forever. He is the Way, the Truth and the Life. This gospel is your passport to eternal life -- officially stamped by God’s promises -- officially sealed with His Holy Spirit of Promise.

While the church fathers of this day continue to issue false passports saying that one can be saved by priests or by Mary or by transubstantiation or by being baptized into the titles (father, son, spirit,) the scriptures still stand as the authentic Word of God. He is the One and Only absolute. The rest is just man-made institutional religion pushing the traditions of men. Do not fall for this pretentious gospel!

Come instead to the Master who is beckoning for each and every one of us to attend the wedding feast of all time. He is calling us to step out by faith from the humdrum and chaos of this world into His glorious kingdom -- the kingdom of God. If you are burdened, and failing under the weight of heaviness to the point of despair, listen carefully to what Jesus is saying --

"Come unto Me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you, and learn of Me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For my yoke is easy, and My burden is light." (Matthew 11:25-33)

If you are sick, reach out like the woman in the scriptures with the issue of blood, who got Jesus' attention when she touched His garment -- and by extension, was healed of all disease. Indeed, believe that Jesus is the mediator of the new covenant and to the blood of sprinkling that speaks better things than that of Abel. See that ye refuse not Him that speaks. (Hebrews 12:23-25)

In fact, read Acts 2:36-42 for your edification and learning. Repent and be water baptized in the name of Jesus Christ so that you too can receive the gift of the Holy Ghost. And then, stand firm in the offering plate with your Lord God and Saviour. Why? Because Jesus never fails. Not ever, and He only wants the best for those who love Him.

To Whom We Gave No Such Commandment - Part 1310

Herein, a question. When we think of the traditions of men, and how certain ideas and often peculiarities have spanned generations, what immediately comes to mind? I was considering this idea yesterday, and how every other discipline known in the world revisits their original premises and foundation from time to time. These do so through questioning, investigation, research, and/or re-examination of their beliefs to ensure that the foundation, in which the house has been built is firm. That is, this quest for the absolute appears to include every kind of institution or belief system in the world with the exception of modern day religion.

For example, here we are centuries after the Reformation days, and we are still standing on doctrine and statements of faith developed during a time when there was very little scripture to correlate any of the teachings. It was a time when believers were heavily persecuted, and copies of translated scripture most minimal in its availability.

Foxes Book of Martyrs provides a glimpse of the atrocities against believers -- Protestant reformers that was taking place at that time, when those who were working diligently to translate the scriptures into English were being killed for doing so. I remember hearing how Protestant Christians chained both the Bible and Foxes Book of Martyrs to the pulpit so that we in our generation might understand the price that was paid for us to have the gospel, in English, and in its entirety. Anyone who reads this narrative quickly realizes that the book is much more than just a record of persecution.

But I digress from my original point. The main crux worth noting here is that believers today are not hindered from reading the Bible for fear of persecution, and death. Bibles are readily available in this day and age so that we/religion can ensure that the premise that led to creating a statement of faith centuries ago is still sound, and likewise, that the doctrines that we preach from the pulpits actually fully align with the Word of God. Remember, God is not the author of confusion, but of peace, as in all churches of the saints. (I Corinthians 14:33)

Sadly, investigation does not appear to be high on the list in our modern day religious community. Rather, instead, there is a continuing effort (internationally) to form one church, whereby the Word of God is no longer heralded as the only authority, even when the Bible -- the one and only absolute -- is immediately available for review and examination by one and all. If this were the scientific community, or psychology, or education, or business, or another noteworthy discipline, a re-examination and reconfirmation of their premises would be highly expected -- and on a regular basis too.

It is for this reason that I draw your attention to Acts 15 -- whereby certain men were propagating a false teaching. The circumstance is telling. Herein, certain men which came down from Judaea taught the brethren that in order to be saved, one had to be circumcised after the manner of Moses. Indeed, these men preached, "Except ye be circumcised after the manner of Moses, ye cannot be saved." (Acts 15:1) Note that this is complete contrast to Peter's message (when he was standing with the eleven on the day of Pentecost) where he told the first 3,000 souls saved to "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 2:36-47)

Of course, as noted in Acts 15, Paul and Barnabas "had no small dissension and disputation with them." (Acts 15:2) In their hearts, they knew this to be a false teaching that had to be clarified. In response, they determined that Paul and Barnabas, and certain other of them should go up to Jerusalem unto the apostles and elders about this question. And being brought on their way by the church, they passed through Phenice and Samaria, declaring the conversion of the Gentiles, and they caused great joy unto all the brethren.

"And when they were come to Jerusalem, they were received of the church, and of the apostles and elders, and they declared all things that God had done with them. But there arose up certain of the sect of the Pharisees which believed, saying, "That it was needful to circumcise them, and to command [them] to keep the law of Moses." (Acts 15:3-5)

What did the apostles and elders do? They came together for to consider of this matter. These examined the scriptures to determine the truth. Why? Because God is not the author of confusion.

Is this to suggest that there wasn't much disputing? Of course there was. Circumcision was a teaching and practice that had carried forward for generations -- the traditions of men -- that served to "add" legal requirements with no basis or foundation to the good news gospel of the Lord Jesus Christ, and His mercy. So, yes, the scriptures are clear on this point. There was "much" disputing.

And when there had been much disputing, Peter rose up and said unto them, "Men and brethren, ye know how that a good while ago God made choice among us, that the Gentiles by my mouth should hear the Word of the gospel and believe. And God, which knows the hearts, bare them witness, giving them the Holy Ghost, even as [He did] unto us; and put no difference between us and them, purifying their hearts by faith. Now therefore why tempt ye God to put a yoke upon the neck of the disciples, which neither our fathers nor we are able to bear? But we believe that through the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ we shall be saved, even as they." (Acts 15:6-11)

Did you catch that?

"Now therefore why tempt ye God to put a yoke upon the neck of the disciples, which neither our fathers nor we are able to bear? But we believe that through the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ we shall be saved, even as they." (Acts 15:10-11)

Then all the multitude kept silence, and gave audience to Barnabas and Paul, declaring what miracles and wonders God had wrought among the Gentiles by them.

And after they had held their peace, James answered, saying, "Men and brethren,  hearken unto me. Simeon hath declared how God at the first did visit Gentiles, to take out of them a people for His name. And to this agree the words of the prophets; as it is written [in the old testament], "After this I will return, and will build again the tabernacle of David, which is fallen down, and I will build again the ruins thereof, and I will set it up; that the residue of men might seek after the Lord, and all the Gentiles upon whom My name is called," saith the Lord, "who does all these things." (Acts 15:13-17)

In other words, we are saved by grace and that not of ourselves, it is the gift of God. Not of works lest any man should boast. For we are His ..." (Ephesians 2:8-10)

As a consequence, when we repent and are baptized/buried in the name of the Lord Jesus, we are clothed in His righteousness. "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. For if we have been planted together in the likeness of His death, we shall be also in the likeness of His resurrection. Knowing this, that our old man is crucified with [Him], that the body of sin might be destroyed, that henceforth we should not serve sin. For he that is dead is free from sin. Now if we be dead with Christ, we believe that we shall also live with Him; knowing that Christ being raised from the dead dies no more; death hath no more dominion over Him. For in that He died, He died unto sin once, but in that He lives, He lives unto God." (Romans 6:1-10)

But Peter did not stop there. He continued by saying,  that "known unto God are all His works from the beginning of the world. Wherefore my sentence is, that we trouble not them which from among the Gentiles are turned to God: but that we write unto them -- that they abstain from pollution of idols, and from fornication, and from things strangled, and from blood. For Moses of old time hath in every city them that preach him, being read in the synagogues every Sabbath day." (Acts 15:21)

Then pleased it the apostles and elders, with the whole church to send chosen men of their own company to Antioch with Paul and Barnabas; [namely] Judas surnamed Barsabas, and Silas, chief men among the brethren. And they wrote letters [in fact, this letter] by them after this manner;

The apostles and elders and brethren send greetings unto the brethren which are of the Gentiles in Antioch and Syria and Cilicia, for as much as we have heard, that certain which went out from us have troubled you with words, subverting your souls, saying, "Ye must be circumcised and keep the law; to whom we gave no [such] commandment. It seemed good unto us, being assembled with one accord, to send chosen men unto you with our beloved Barnabas and Paul, men that have hazarded their lives for the name of our Lord Jesus Christ. We have sent therefore Judas and Silas, who shall also tell [you] the same things by mouth. For it seemed good to the Holy Ghost, and to us, to lay upon you no greater burden than these necessary things; that ye abstain from meats offered to idols, and from blood, and from things strangled, and from fornication: from which if ye keep yourselves ye shall do well. Fare ye well." (Acts 15:22-29)

When they were dismissed they delivered this epistle which when they had read, they rejoiced for the consolation, and Judas and Silas, being prophets also themselves, exhorted the brethren with many words and confirmed [them]. And after they had tarried a space, they were let go in peace from the brethren unto the apostles. (Acts 15:30-33)

Therefore, as you can see from the example of the apostles, there is a need to examine the scriptures for the truth. In this particular situation, it involved disputation among the disciples, as well as with those who taught that circumcision was necessary for salvation. But the dialogue also brought clarity. Not only to remind others that Jesus shed His precious blood on the cross for the Gentiles too, and that these had received the gift of the Holy Ghost, as did the Jews, but also to state that there would be no greater burden laid upon the Gentiles -- beyond these necessary things.

That is, to "abstain from meats offered to idols, and from blood, and from things strangled, and from fornication: from which if ye keep yourselves ye shall do well. Fare ye well." (Acts 15:22-29)

Thus, if this re-examination of beliefs and doctrinal teachings were necessary in the early church to establish and [re]confirm the apostles' doctrine, shouldn't religious statements of faith in today's churches also be reviewed periodically to ensure these "keep His Word and does not deny His name?" (Revelation 3:8-9)

It is an interesting question, and one -- in many ways that is long overdue.  He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches.

Stand in the offering plate.

But My God Shall Supply All Your Need According to His Riches In Glory By Christ Jesus - Part 1309

We know from the parables that Jesus often equated joy and treasure with the kingdom of heaven, even likening at one point the righteous to those that would shine forth as the sun in the kingdom of their Father. (Matthew 13:43) In another scripture, those who preach the gospel will be like shining stars in the universe. Perhaps, this is why the parable, whereby Jesus likens the kingdom of heaven like unto treasure hid in a field has so much meaning. Herein, as Jesus explains, the man who found the treasure hid it, and for joy thereof went and sold all he had to buy that field. (Matthew 13:44)

Jesus did not stop here. He continued this thought, likening the kingdom of heaven to a net cast into the sea. The net had gathered within it fish of every kind. When it was full, the boat drew to shore and sat down, gathering the good into vessels. In both examples, Jesus is showing us what the kingdom of heaven would be like, and how we too should desire the things that are spiritual.

Why? Because to gain the whole world and lose one's soul does not make sense. Let me also say, that Jesus was not talking about money here, but rather, the treasures of our heart.

Jesus clarified this when He said, “Where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.” (Matthew 6:21) 

Phrased another way, is it the things of this world that we desire? Or, do we focus our eyes on the heavenly? As believers in Jesus by faith, do we truly love our Lord God and Saviour Jesus the Christ with all our heart, soul, mind and strength?  Do we seek to fulfill the purpose that He placed in our heart whilst we were still in our mother's womb? These are all valid questions. 

We read in both the old and the new, the first commandment: "Hear, O Israel: The Lord our God is one Lord: And thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thine heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy might." (Deuteronomy 6:4; Matthew 22:36-40)

Like Jesus, this first commandment was and is unchanging. The same yesterday, today and forever. To this end, we must also understand that the Lord our God is ONE Lord, and as such, we need to love Him with all our heart, soul, mind and strength. To be renewed in Him daily. To seek His purpose in everything we do. (For clarity, let me say that this ONE Lord in this current dispensation of grace is JESUS -- the only name whereby we must be saved, and His name -- JESUS --above all other names used previously by God in the old covenant. (Acts 4:12; Philippians 2:9) And she shall call His name Jesus for He shall save His people from their sins. (Matthew 1:21-23; Isaiah 9:6)

Perhaps, this explains why the encounter between Jesus and the rich man is cited so often. It wasn't just a conversation. Indeed, as the scripture points out, Jesus beholding him loved him, and desired this man's heart.  As we know, the man was unable to do in his heart what Jesus was asking him to do. That is, as Jesus said, "One thing thou lack. Go thy way, sell whatsoever thou hast, and give to the poor, and thou shalt have treasure in heaven: and come, take up the cross, and follow Me." (Matthew 19:21)

To me, it was losing the currency of this world that the man could not accept. His acquired wealth, comprised of earthly money and riches. His treasure -- the desires of his heart -- stuck on the worldly objectives. Within that heart, the heavenly would just be an extra. Certainly, giving his all -- like standing in the offering plate and doing everything in both word or deed for Jesus was problematic. To some extent, it reminds me of our modern day religious culture, whereby our walk with the Lord Jesus is as an extra in our life, instead of Him being everything in our life. But I digress.

In complete contrast, we get a glimpse of the heavenly from others in the scriptures, who gave up their earthly moments, revealing to us in this day that there is no better reward than following Jesus. I am reminded here of the wise men who came to see Jesus as a young child. When they saw the star in the east stop over the place where Jesus was, the wise men, what does the scripture say. These wise men "rejoiced with exceeding great joy." (Matthew 2:10)

When was the last time we rejoiced with exceeding great joy? It was this rejoicing with exceeding great joy that the rich man missed, in believing (wrongly) that the treasures of this world could ever satisfy the longing deep down in one's heart for the treasure that can only be found in our blessed Saviour. 

His love. His mercy. His grace. His compassion for His creation, bringing us to a place in Him whereby we can fully experience His joy in our hearts. 

But it all comes about as a consequence of accepting Jesus into our hearts, and seeking His counsel and wisdom daily. Getting to know personally the He who knew no sin and yet so willingly took our place on the cross, shedding His precious blood so that our sin (as scarlet as it is) could become as white as snow. It is in this spirit of humbleness that we repent and ask for His forgiveness. When we do this, we realize that this same Jesus who is both Lord and Christ, desires our heart. (Acts 2:36-38) Our treasure -- His Word --  the Word that was with God and was God made flesh -- hidden away in our heart.

Let's take a good look at Philippians 4, understanding that when our heart, mind, soul and strength is totally devoted to fulfilling God's purposes, we shed the cares of this earth from our consciousness. We have been washed clean of our transgressions, and when we go on to be baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ, we become clothed in His garment of righteousness. (Acts 2:36-47) Like the words of the hymn proclaims, when we turn our eyes upon Jesus, the things of this earth will go strangely dim. We step out in faith from the doings of this world to become a fully satisfied and joyful being in Christ Jesus -- knowing that everything that comes at us in a day will be turned to good for those who love the Lord.

We see this transformation in the apostles who didn't let the earthly treasures get in the way of following Jesus. As Paul wrote here, "Not because I desire a gift: but I desire fruit that may abound to your account." Fruit as in souls saved and disciples of Jesus created after the likeness of Him, devoted to inviting others to the most elaborate wedding feast of all time. This is what the rich man couldn't see. But the disciples -- they saw a higher calling and were willing to yield their earthly desires for the heavenly.

Why? Because Jesus -- the King of kings and Lord of lords chose them. Jesus said, "I have chosen and ordained you."

Philippians 4 elaborates and instructs further on what it means to rejoice in His goodness and grace, and similarly, how to take hold of the Master who loves us beyond measure. Know too that we serve a God who shall supply all your need according to His riches in glory by Christ Jesus, Read this important scriptural passage for yourself. Meditate on the treasures written within. And be richly blessed in the precious name of our Lord God and Saviour Jesus the Christ.

"Therefore, my brethren dearly beloved and longed for, my joy and crown, so stand fast in the Lord, my dearly beloved. I beseech Euodias, and beseech Syntyche, that they be of the same mind in the Lord. And I intreat thee also, true yoke fellow, help those women which laboured with me in the gospel, with Clement also, and with other my fellow labourers, whose names are in the book of life."

And in so doing, "rejoice in the Lord always: and again I say, Rejoice." (Philippians 4:1-4)

"Let your moderation be known unto all men. The Lord is at hand. Be careful for nothing, but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God. And the peace of God, which passes all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.

Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things.Those things, which ye have both learned, and received, and heard, and seen in me, do: and the God of peace shall be with you. But I rejoiced in the Lord greatly, that now at the last your care of me hath flourished again; wherein ye were also careful, but ye lacked opportunity. 

Not that I speak in respect of want -- for I have learned, in whatsoever state I am, therewith to be content. I know both how to be abased, and I know how to abound: every where and in all things I am instructed both to be full and to be hungry, both to abound and to suffer need. I can do all things through Christ which strengthens me. Notwithstanding ye have well done, that ye did communicate with my affliction.

Now ye Philippians know also, that in the beginning of the gospel, when I departed from Macedonia, no church communicated with me as concerning giving and receiving, but ye only. For even in Thessalonica ye sent once and again unto my necessity. Not because I desire a gift: but I desire fruit that may abound to your account.

But I have all, and abound: I am full, having received of Epaphroditus the things which were sent from you, an odour of a sweet smell, a sacrifice acceptable, well pleasing to God. But my God shall supply all your need according to His riches in glory by Christ Jesus. Now unto God and our Father be glory for ever and ever. Amen. Salute every saint in Christ Jesus. The brethren which are with me greet you. All the saints salute you, chiefly they that are of Caesar's household. The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you all. Amen." (Philippians 4:1-23)

Stand in the offering plate.

Your Word Have I Hidden In My Heart - Part 1308

And [Jesus] said to them all, "If any man will come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow Me." (Luke 9:23)

When we study what Jesus actually said in the ninth chapter of Luke's writing, we begin to understand how far we -- as believers in the Lord Jesus Christ by faith -- have ventured from our destined calling. How far removed we have become from taking up His cross and following Him daily. How too often, the instruction to not forsake the assembling of the saints has led to a diligence in church attendance and man-made traditions, without taking hold of the very purpose and essence of Jesus' instructions -- pressing into Jesus with all our heart, soul, mind and strength -- daily!

Luke begins this chapter with Jesus calling His twelve disciples together. Therein, He gave them -- His disciples power and authority over all devils, and to cure diseases, and to preach the kingdom of God and to heal the sick. (Luke 9:1-2) 

And He said unto them, "Take nothing for your journey, neither staves, nor scrip, neither bread, neither money; neither have two coats apiece.And whatsoever house ye enter into, there abide, and thence depart. And whosoever will not receive you, when ye go out of that city, shake off the very dust from your feet for a testimony against them." (Luke 9:3-5)

Note the disciples response. 

"And they departed, and went through the towns, preaching the gospel, and healing everywhere." (Luke 9:6)

Did they wait for additional instructions from the leaders of the church? No, they went immediately through the towns preaching the gospel and healing everywhere. And when the apostles returned, they told Jesus everything that they had done. The signs and wonders and miracles that had been performed throughout their journey. We know that there must have been an impact because when Jesus then took them privately into a desert place belonging to a city called Bethsaida, the people when they know it, followed Him, and He received them. Therein, Jesus spoke to them of the kingdom of God and healed them that had need of healing. (Luke 9:10-11)

And when the day began to wear away, then came the twelve asking Jesus to send them away so that they may go into the towns and country round about and lodge and get victuals, "for we are here in a desert place." (Luke 9:12)

But Jesus had a better plan for the multitudes, that included about five thousand men. He said unto them, "Give ye them to eat." But the disciples -- these same disciples that had just been out there performing signs and wonders and healing the sick in towns throughout the countryside, were concerned. "We have no more but five loaves and two fishes; except we should go and buy meat for all this people." (Luke 9:13)

Should we ask -- what happened to their faith? Here they were conversing with the King of kings and Lord of lords and yet, when Jesus said to give the multitudes to eat, they thought that included a shopping trip. How many times have we been where His disciples are? Sidetracked by the necessities and obligations of life, rather than focusing "daily" on the Almighty. "Thy Word have I hid in my heart," as the psalmist wrote.

In this case, we know the result. Jesus took the five loaves and two fishes and looking up to heaven, He blessed them and brake, and gave to the disciples to set before the multitude. And when they were done eating and full, there was taken up of fragments that remained to them twelve baskets. (Luke 9:14-17)

But what would have happened had the disciples understood the power and authority that Jesus had given them earlier in Luke 9:1-2? Or, understood what Jesus meant when He said, ""Take nothing for your journey, neither staves, nor scrip, neither bread, neither money; neither have two coats apiece ..." (Luke 9:3) And yet, is this not the same message intended for us today? 

Of course, not everyone was glad to hear the good news message. We see Herod the tetrach who had heard of all that was being done by Jesus, and he was perplexed because some in the company had said that John (whom he had beheaded) had risen from the dead. Others were saying that Elias had appeared, or one of the old prophets had come back to life. As we know from Luke's account, Herod had desired to see Jesus. (Luke 9:7-9)

"And it came to pass, as He was alone praying, His disciples were with Him: and He asked them, saying, "Whom say the people that I am?" They answering said, "John the Baptist; but some say, Elias; and others say, that one of the old prophets is risen again." [Then Jesus] said unto them, "But whom say ye that I am?" Peter answering said, "The Christ of God." And He straitly charged them, and commanded them to tell no man that thing; saying, "The Son of man must suffer many things, and be rejected of the elders and chief priests and scribes, and be slain, and be raised the third day." (Luke 9:18-22)

But Jesus did not stop there. He had a particular message for those who followed Him.

And He said to them all, "If any man will come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow Me. For whosoever will save his life shall lose it: but whosoever will lose his life for My sake, the same shall save it. For what is a man advantaged, if he gain the whole world, and lose himself, or be cast away? For whosoever shall be ashamed of Me and of My words, of him shall the Son of man be ashamed, when He shall come in His own glory, and in His Father's, and of the holy angels. But I tell you of a truth, there be some standing here, which shall not taste of death, till they see the kingdom of God." (Luke 9:23-27)

There is much more to understand in Luke 9, but the message today is learning to understand and respond to Jesus call -- "If any man will come after Me, let him deny himself and take up his cross daily and follow Me." (Luke 9:23)

In the world we will still face the Herod's who want to discover what is happening, but not necessarily subscribe to the good news gospel message. Nevertheless, the Lord placed His purpose in our heart whilst we were still in our mother's womb, and we need to follow through, as someone who has put the plough to the ground and is not turning back.

Pressing into Jesus, and allowing Him to work through us, so that others might know the truth that can set them free too. Why? Because at the end of our life, it will not matter if we gain the whole world and lose our own soul as a consequence. As believers in Jesus, and water baptized in His precious name according to Acts 2:36-47, we can attest to knowing personally the Christ of God. Thus, when we receive the gift of the Holy Ghost, we can know that we too have been given the power and authority over all devils, to cure diseases, to preach the kingdom of God and heal the sick, 

Unfortunately, in today's world, it is the stepping out in faith that holds us back. That leaves us thinking we must go out on a shopping expedition for the circumstance at hand, rather than knowing that His Word is true in every situation. Thy Word have I hid in my heart, and as a consequence, we need to take up His cross daily and follow Him.

For Jesus never fails.

Stand in the offering plate.