Blessed Be The Lord God Of Israel; For He Hath Visited And Redeemed His People - Part 1908

And his father Zacharias was filled with the Holy Ghost, and 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." (Luke 1:67-75)

"Neither, because they are the seed of Abraham, are they all children: but, In Isaac shall thy seed be called. That is, they which are the children of the flesh, these are not the children of God: but the children of the promise are counted for the seed." (Romans 9:7-8)

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)

It is important to recognize that the SEED is not of many or from multiple persons. Indeed, the scriptural references in Galatians defines the SEED as representative of only one person. That the one referred to here is none other than the Christ, who is the child of the Spirit of the one Holy God. Yes, the same God who SEEDED the promised SEEDS to Eve and to Abraham. To this point, Paul states in his epistle to the saints in Galatia:

"Now to Abraham and his seed were the promises made. He saith not, "And to seeds, as of many; but as of one, And to thy seed, which is Christ." (Galatians 3:16)

"Wherefore then serveth the law? It was added because of transgressions, till the Seed should come to whom the promise was made; and it was ordained by angels in the hand of a mediator." (Galatians 3:19)

"And if ye be Christ's, then are ye Abraham's seed, and heirs according to the promise." (Galatians 3:29)

The reason for clarifying this point is that there are modern day religious institutions who subscribe to the belief of immaculate conception. The people within these organizations believe this even though according to the scriptures, Mary was not included in the conception. Rather Mary was, by her consent a willing surrogate.

In fact, the genealogy as recorded in Matthew and Luke make no reference to Mary’s natural seed. Rather, the scriptures clearly outline to Mary that the embryo which is conceived within her was of the Holy Ghost. Therefore, what was happening is that Mary consented to be a surrogate. As a consequence of Mary’s willing submission, believers should most certainly acknowledge that Mary was blessed - and blessed as well among women. However, Mary was not blessed above women. This is a key distinction.

Also, note that never in the scriptures was Mary ever hailed as the mother of God. But Mary did rejoice in God her Saviour, because she recognized, like Luke that this fetus carried within was a "holy thing!"But I digress.

As we read in the scriptures, the angel declared to Mary that the holy thing that shall come forth from her shall be called the Son of God. So the wisdom of God counsel now appeared in fashion as a man. Why is this? Because only God could reveal His (formerly) hidden plan of Wisdom. This is why we required God Himself as a Son to speak. The Word had to be veiled in flesh so that we might be able to hear and understand the unveiling (Wisdom) of the mystery of God. Note: the time of these events were spoken of in the scriptures as being the fullness of time.

At that time, JESUS was brought forth. Jesus - who is Himself the Wisdom of God. For it is written that JESUS is the Wisdom of God. "And the child grew, and waxed strong in spirit, filled with wisdom: and the grace of God was upon him." (Luke 2:47) "But unto them which are called, both Jews and Greeks, Christ the power of God, and the wisdom of God." (I Corinthians 1:24)

And, similarly, that JESUS is the Glory of God. "For God, who commanded the light to shine out of darkness, hath shined in our hearts, to give the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ." (II Corinthians 4:6) Therefore, JESUS is the Word of God, who also is the same Wisdom of God.

The Word that was with God and was God was made flesh and dwelt among us and we beheld His glory. (John 1:1-18)

But we without hearing in Word the revealing of the Wisdom of God would still be without understanding. But JESUS as flesh is the living manifestation of the Wisdom of God. Let us see and understand what the scriptures are stating here. One without the other would be like a bird without wings. Where would we be then?

Still, when JESUS spoke, there was something distinctive about His presence. JESUS did not speak like the scribes and the Pharisees. There is a reason for this. That is, JESUS is not only the Wisdom and Glory of God but JESUS is the Power of God too. "For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ: for it is the power of God unto salvation to every one that believeth; to the Jew first, and also to the Greek." (Romans 1:16)

For again it is written that His Words were with power. Yes, indeed, His Words were with power. When JESUS' Words of Wisdom and power impacts a person, something happens. Something wonderful happens. The songwriter penned this experience as "oh, for a thousand tongues to sing, To express my tongue indeed would be the pen of a ready writer, I am come that you might have LIFE, a more abundant life."

When the wise men came to see Jesus (as a young child) they worshipped Him. These did not worship Mary. When John the baptizer saw Jesus coming off in the distance, John said, "Behold, the Lamb of God!"

Indeed, "for God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son so that WHOSOEVER BELIEVES IN HIM SHOULD NOT PERISH BUT HAVE EVERLASTING LIFE." (John 3:16)

Most certainly, Mary was with the 120 disciples in the upper room, but she was also waiting for the promise of the Holy Ghost to come upon them, being in prayer and supplication. Acts 1 and 2 further elaborates on the events that transpired, marking the beginning of the New Testament church in this current dispensation of grace. But that is for another day. For this day, press into the Lord Jesus Christ and study the Word that has been given unto us. And if you are still in the Babylonian churches, it is time to "come out," as Jesus said, "so that ye do not suffer their plagues."

More to come. Stand in the offering plate.

Behold, I Lay In Sion A Chief Corner Stone, Elect, Precious: And he That Believes On Him Shall Not Be Confounded - Part 1907

"Behold, what manner of love the Father hath bestowed upon us, that we should be called the sons of God: therefore the world knows us not, because it knew Him not." (I John 3:1)

"Wherefore also it is contained in the scripture, Behold, I lay in Sion a chief corner stone, elect, precious: and he that believes on Him shall not be confounded." (I Peter 2:6)

"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)

Behold, the Lamb of God which takes away the sin of the world ... "for whosoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life. (John 1:29, 36; John 3:16)

Historically, the heads of religion (the so called self-appointed church fathers) have set down certain platforms concerning the Godhead, advancing a cunningly devised fable that God is three distinct and separate persons. This I say to you and to the whole world is heresy. God is not a triad. God is not a trinity. Most certainly, God is not a person. Indeed, the scriptures tell us that God is Spirit and that no man hath seen Him except He who hath in these last days spoken unto us by [His] Son -- who being the brightness of His glory and the express image of His person, an upholding all things by the Word of His power, when He had by Himself purged our sins. (Hebrews 1:1-3)

For context, Hebrews 1 states: "God, who at sundry times and in divers 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. For unto which of the angels said He at any time, "Thou art My Son, this day have I begotten thee?" And again, "I will be to Him a Father, and He shall be to me a Son?" And again, when He brings in the first begotten into the world, He saith, "And let all the angels of God worship Him."

And of the angels He saith, "Who makes His angels spirits, and His ministers a flame of fire." But unto the Son He saith, "Thy throne, O God, is for ever and ever: a sceptre of righteousness is the sceptre of thy kingdom. Thou hast loved righteousness, and hated iniquity; therefore God, even Thy God, hath anointed Thee with the oil of gladness above Thy fellows. And, Thou, Lord, in the beginning hast laid the foundation of the earth; and the heavens are the works of Thine hands: they shall perish; but Thou remains; and they all shall wax old as doth a garment; and as a vesture shalt Thou fold them up, and they shall be changed: but Thou art the same, and Thy years shall not fail. 

But to which of the angels said He at any time, "Sit on My right hand, until I make Thine enemies Thy footstool? Are they not all ministering spirits, sent forth to minister for them who shall be heirs of salvation?" (Hebrews 1:1-14)

Yes, "in Him the fullness of the Godhead dwelt bodily ..." (Colossians 2:9) And now, after the resurrection of our Lord God and Saviour Jesus (who the apostles declared Jesus both Lord and Christ) are able to have life through His Name. (Acts 2:36; John 20:31)

Further, we know from the very first commandment in the Old Testament, and repeated again by Jesus in the new that God is One. "Hear O Israel, the Lord thy God is ONE LORD!" (Deuteronomy 6:4; Mark 12:29-31; I Timothy 3:16) After the kindness and love of God our Saviour toward man appeared. (Titus 3:4-7)

Yes, this same God who made the world and all that is therein loved His beloved creation so much that He Himself willingly became our Saviour. This same God who is the Spirit of the Lord that moved across the face of the waters in the beginning loved us enough to robe Himself in sin-prone flesh (but yet without sin) so that we might experience salvation in Him. (Genesis 1:1-2)

From the New Testament, we read -- "In the beginning was the Word and the Word was with God and the Word was God ... and the Word was made flesh and dwelt among us and we beheld His glory! (John 1:1-18)

"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)

God has revealed by His Spirit that which is written and confirmed by the testimony of the scriptures being God’s Word! Thankfully, this is why the Spirit and the Word must agree, so that we are not misled in our understanding of the mystery of the Godhead that was held in the bosom of the Father from the very beginning. Let him with ears to hear, understand what is being presented here.

[And as an aside, if you struggle with understanding how much God loved us for Him to have prepared Himself a body so that He Himself could become the perfect sacrifice for our sin, study the scriptures yourself for therein is life eternal!]

Indeed, the fullness of the Godhead dwelt bodily in Him. (Colossians 2:9) To wit, God was in Christ, reconciling the world unto Himself, not imputing their trespasses unto them; and hath committed unto us the Word of reconciliation. (II Corinthians 5:19) Emmanuel, being interpreted, God with us. (Matthew 1:21-23) God manifest in the flesh. (I Timothy 3:16)

Throughout Isaiah, the Lord God spoke saying that He alone is God, and besides Him there is no Saviour. There is no other besides the Lord thy God. (Isaiah 43:11; Isaiah 45:21; Hosea 13:4)

"For ever, O Lord, Thy Word is settled in heaven. Thy faithfulness is unto all generations: Thou hast established the earth, and it abides ..." (Psalm 119:89-90)

Jesus said, "Thy Word is truth." (John 17:17)

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

Jesus said, "I and My Father are One!" (John 10:30)

Admittedly, there is so much that we don't understand because in many things we still see though a glass darkly but this one precept we must know and never compromise. That is, as the Lord Jesus told the Philippian church in Revelation, that we as believers both keep His Word and not deny His Name. (Revelation 3:8-9) In this current dispensation of grace, His Name is JESUS, for He shall save His people from their sins. (Matthew 1:18-23)

My prayer today is that the Word of God will be acknowledged once and for all. And that our hearts response is to search the scriptures until we become fully grounded in His truth. Stand in the offering plate.

Behold, Now Is The Accepted Time; Behold, Now Is The Day Of Salvation - Part 1906

"Thus saith the Lord the King of Israel, and His redeemer the Lord of hosts; I am the first, and I am the last; and beside me there is no God." (Isaiah 44:6)

"I, even I, am the Lord; and beside Me there is no Saviour." (Isaiah 43:11)

Thus saith the Lord to His anointed, to Cyrus, whose right hand I have holden, to subdue nations before him; and I will loose the loins of kings, to open before him the two leaved gates; and the gates shall not be shut; "I will go before thee, and make the crooked places straight: I will break in pieces the gates of brass, and cut in sunder the bars of iron: and I will give thee the treasures of darkness, and hidden riches of secret places, that thou mayest know that I, the Lord, which call thee by thy name, am the God of Israel. For Jacob my servant’s sake, and Israel mine elect, I have even called thee by thy name: I have surnamed thee, though thou hast not known Me.

I am the Lord, and there is none else, there is no God beside Me: I girded thee, though thou hast not known Me: that they may know from the rising of the sun, and from the west, that there is none beside me. I am the Lord, and there is none else. (Isaiah 45:1-6)

Know that there is no other Saviour beside Me, saith the Lord. Thus, as the Lord hath declared, "Be still, and know that I am God: I will be exalted among the heathen, I will be exalted in the earth." (Psalm 46:10)

We see this on the cross, wherein Jesus became the perfect sacrifice, so that we might have abundant life in Him. After the kindness and love of God our Saviour toward man appeared. (Titus 3:4-7) "... but hath in due times manifested His Word through preaching, which is committed unto me according to the commandment of God our Saviour." (Titus 1:3)

" ... to the only wise God our Saviour, be glory and majesty, dominion and power, both now and ever. Amen." (Jude 1:25)

Indeed, "what manner of love the Father hath bestowed upon us, that we should be called the sons of God: therefore the world knows us not, because it knew Him not." (I John 3:1)

Almighty God, even the Lord our Saviour, has spoken and called the earth from the rising of the sun unto the going down thereof the perfection of beauty. (Genesis 1:1) Therein, does God shine. This is why we delve into reading the Bible, so that we can become grounded in the Rock which is Christ. Because all scripture is given by inspiration of God and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, thoroughly equipped for every good work. (II Timothy 3:16)

Similar to Adam and Eve in the Garden of Eden, and by extension all humanity -- you and I -- our Lord God and Saviour desires that we become complete in Him as a consequence of His grace and mercy. Fulfilled. Joyous. Complete in the knowledge and wisdom that our Lord God and Saviour Jesus loves us beyond measure.

"Oh taste and see that the Lord is good; blessed is the man [or woman] that trusts in Him." (Psalm 34:8)

When we believe in Jesus by faith, we can be confident in this God-intended completeness that has been decided since the beginning. His purpose written in our hearts whilst we were still in our mother's womb. Even before the universe as we know it was shaped, He loved us. When we open the scriptures, we begin to understand that the written Word -- God in the flesh according to I John 5:7-- established Jesus the Christ as the Head of the body of Christ church. 

The scriptures similarly establish that Jesus alone saves. That salvation is in Him -- Jesus our Lord God and Saviour -- that the safety of the members of His body depends. For it is Jesus the Christ who loves the church -- His betrothed bride. It was Jesus the Christ that surrendered His own sinless body of flesh up to death for His betrothed. It was Jesus the Christ who counted His own sinless flesh body to be incomplete without the companionship of His betrothed.

Certainly, creation alone could not break the shackles of sin that had engulfed His one and only love. We know this from the prophecies and journeys elaborated on within the Old Testament. We also know that salvation required -- indeed demanded -- that any redemption plan that would save humanity had to include a pure righteous man. This is why Jesus laid down His sinless flesh on a cross for you and I. In so doing, Jesus rescued His betrothed, sanctifying and cleansing her.

His betrothed church body -- holy -- purifying and consecrating her. As a consequence, Jesus made her body free from all sin. The Spirit of God washed His own redeemed betrothed church body with the washing of the water of His indwelling. Loving words of His declared promises. She in turn willingly submitting to His words of love, and even following Him to death. 

Jesus said, "My sheep hear My voice ..." (John 10:27)

Jesus said, "And other sheep I have, which are not of this fold: them also I must bring, and they shall hear My voice; and there shall be One fold, and One Shepherd." (John 10:16)

The Spirit of God then -- desirous to present to Himself a glorious church-body. His betrothed as a beautiful splendid bride -- a bride who has not one spot or wrinkle, blots or disfigurements. This redeemed church body -- the betrothed bride of Christ -- became His purchased possession. Now born again. Now faultless and perfect. The Spirit of God which was in Christ loves His betrothed body. He loves His betrothed bride even as He loved His own flesh. For indeed, she was His own flesh. She was created in the beginning for Him. She was the flesh of His flesh and bone of His bone.

Furthermore, there were no limits to His love. There was no orders to her to do this or else. In fact, Jesus did not just talk the talk. He also walked the walk too. For the God who created us, there was no mountain high enough or valley deep enough to keep the Holy Spirit from His betrothed. So Jesus sacrificed His own natural body in order to woe her back from the house of bondage. He willingly sacrificed His own sinless body. He endured all things. Now that is love.

That is, He brought His grace to man. Oh, the mighty gulf that God did span at Calvary. His divine love so that you and I would be the betrothed bride of Christ. "Behold, I stand at the door and knock. If any man hear my voice and open the door, I will come into him and will sup with him and he with me." (Revelation 3:20) 

Stand in the offering plate.

Jesus Said, "I Will Not Leave You Comfortless: I Will Come To You." - Part 1905

"The LORD our God be with us, as He was with our fathers: let Him not leave us, nor forsake us ..." (I Kings 8:57)

"Hide not Thy face far from me; put not Thy servant away in anger: Thou hast been my help; leave me not, neither forsake me, O God of my salvation." (Psalm 27:9)

Jesus said, "Behold, the hour cometh, yea, is now come, that ye shall be scattered, every man to his own, and shall leave Me alone: and yet I am not alone, because the Father is with Me." (John 16:32)

When we believe in Jesus by faith, and become clothed in His righteousness through water baptism in His Name -- the Name of the Lord Jesus Christ according to Acts 2:38, we can be comforted in our day to day, knowing that our Lord God and Saviour Jesus the Christ is always with us, never leaving nor forsaking us in times of trouble. There is a perfect example of this in Acts 12, wherein the disciples of Jesus experienced the goodness of the Lord, concerning Peter. 

At the time Herod the king saw that when he killed James (the brother of John) that it pleased the Jews, and thus, thought he would win more points by taking Peter's life also. But the Lord had a very different plan for Peter -- and His divine purpose was not going to be foiled by those who did the devil's bidding at this time. Indeed, the account of the angel of the Lord, and the prayers without ceasing of the church unto God combined serves as a confirmation of the Lord's never-ending goodness and mercy upon His people. 

"Though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for Thou art with me; Thy rod and Thy staff they comfort me. Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies: Thou anointest my head with oil; my cup runneth over. Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life: and I will dwell in the house of the Lord for ever." (Psalm 23:4-6)

Yes, what could have resulted in tragedy for the early disciples became a triumph, a victory, a joyous occasion for one and all to behold, and to understand how much the Lord Jesus is with us always, regardless of the trenches we find ourselves in. My hope is that in reading this account, you will be as  edified as I was, and that we will all come to that place wherein we too can say, ""Now I know of a surety, that the Lord hath sent His angel, and hath delivered me out of the hand of Herod, and from all the expectation of the people of the Jews." (Acts 12:11)

From Acts 12:

"Now about that time Herod the king stretched forth his hands to vex certain of the church. And he killed James the brother of John with the sword. And because he saw it pleased the Jews, he proceeded further to take Peter also. (Then were the days of unleavened bread.) And when he had apprehended him, he put him in prison, and delivered him to four quaternions of soldiers to keep him; intending after Easter to bring him forth to the people.

Peter therefore was kept in prison: but prayer was made without ceasing of the church unto God for him. And when Herod would have brought him forth, the same night Peter was sleeping between two soldiers, bound with two chains: and the keepers before the door kept the prison. And, behold, the angel of the Lord came upon him, and a light shined in the prison: and he smote Peter on the side, and raised him up, saying, "Arise up quickly." And his chains fell off from his hands.

And the angel said unto him, "Gird thyself, and bind on thy sandals." And so he did. And he saith unto him, "Cast thy garment about thee, and follow me." And he went out, and followed him; and wist not that it was true which was done by the angel; but thought he saw a vision. When they were past the first and the second ward, they came unto the iron gate that leadeth unto the city; which opened to them of his own accord: and they went out, and passed on through one street; and forthwith the angel departed from him.

And when Peter was come to himself, he said, "Now I know of a surety, that the Lord hath sent his angel, and hath delivered me out of the hand of Herod, and from all the expectation of the people of the Jews."

And when he had considered the thing, he came to the house of Mary the mother of John, whose surname was Mark; where many were gathered together praying. And as Peter knocked at the door of the gate, a damsel came to hearken, named Rhoda. And when she knew Peter's voice, she opened not the gate for gladness, but ran in, and told how Peter stood before the gate. And they said unto her, "Thou art mad." But she constantly affirmed that it was even so. Then said they, "It is his angel."

But Peter continued knocking: and when they had opened the door, and saw him, they were astonished. But he, beckoning unto them with the hand to hold their peace, declared unto them how the Lord had brought him out of the prison. And he said, "Go shew these things unto James, and to the brethren." And he departed, and went into another place.

Now as soon as it was day, there was no small stir among the soldiers, what was become of Peter. And when Herod had sought for him, and found him not, he examined the keepers, and commanded that they should be put to death. And he went down from Judaea to Caesarea, and thereabode. And Herod was highly displeased with them of Tyre and Sidon: but they came with one accord to him, and, having made Blastus the king's chamberlain their friend, desired peace; because their country was nourished by the king's country. And upon a set day Herod, arrayed in royal apparel, sat upon his throne, and made an oration unto them.

And the people gave a shout, saying, "It is the voice of a god, and not of a man." And immediately the angel of the Lord smote him, because he gave not God the glory: and he was eaten of worms, and gave up the ghost. But the Word of God grew and multiplied. And Barnabas and Saul returned from Jerusalem, when they had fulfilled their ministry, and took with them John, whose surname was Mark."

Stand in the offering plate.

The First Of All The Commandments Is -- "Hear, O Israel; The Lord our God Is One Lord" - Part 1904

"My sheep hear My voice, and I know them, and they follow Me ..." (John 10:27)

And one of the scribes came, and having heard them reasoning together, and perceiving that [Jesus] had answered them well, asked Him, "Which is the first commandment of all?" 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. And the second is like, namely this, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself. There is none other commandment greater than these."

And the scribe said unto Him, "Well, Master, thou hast said the truth: for there is One God; and there is none other but He: And to love Him with all the heart, and with all the understanding, and with all the soul, and with all the strength, and to love his neighbour as himself, is more than all whole burnt offerings and sacrifices."

And when Jesus saw that he answered discreetly, He said unto him, "Thou art not far from the kingdom of God." And no man after that durst ask Him any question. (Mark 12:28-34)

Matthew relates the same conversation between the scribe and Jesus, writing, "Master, which is the great commandment in the law?" Jesus said unto him, "Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind. This is the first and great commandment. And the second is like unto it, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself. On these two commandments hang all the law and the prophets." (Matthew 22:36-40)

What we are witnessing here is Jesus summarizing the law given by God unto Moses in Exodus, wherein the Lord thy God is instructing us to have no other gods before Him, for He is a jealous God and wants us to worship Him with all our heart, soul, mind, and strength, and understanding. I have pasted (in part) the corresponding scriptural account from Exodus below, so that we are aware that our first and foremost desire should always be to love the Lord thy God with all our heart, soul, mind and strength. Our very essence devoted solely to Him and His purpose for our life. Herein. we use the term -- stand in the offering plate. We ourselves standing in the offering plate in our totality, asking the Lord what He desires for us to do.

Some might suggest that if and when we do give everything we have to the Lord thy God, then there is nothing left, and yes, that is essentially what we as believers in Jesus by faith should be doing. Our very being in God our Saviour. Our thoughts. Our praise and honour in everything that we do -- in both word and deed -- should be in our Lord God and Saviour Jesus the Christ.

Why? Because He gave everything He had (on the cross) to woo us unto Him. Indeed, He became as one of us, robed in flesh and dwelling among us, so that we might know that in His Name -- we could have life. Eternal life. Abundant life. His peace and joy and love and mercy dwelling within us.

Therefore, in this current dispensation of grace, our heart response and desire should be to follow our Lord God and Saviour. David the psalmist put it this way -- "Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life: and I will dwell in the house of the LORD for ever." (Psalm 23:6)

In the New Testament, there are numerous examples of dwelling in the house of the Lord forever.

For instance, Jesus said unto His disciples, "If any man will come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow Me." (Matthew 16:24) In another place, Jesus said, "Whosoever will come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow Me." (Mark 8:34) And again, 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)

Not a portion of us, or a ten percent tithe as it was in the days of old, but serving and worshipping the Lord in every breath. "Let every thing that hath breath praise the LORD. Praise ye the LORD." (Psalm 150:6)

"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)

For "whoso looks into the perfect law of liberty, and continues therein, he being not a forgetful hearer, but a doer of the work, this man shall be blessed in his deed." (James 1:25)

Stand in the offering plate.

From Exodus: And God spake all these words, saying, "I am the Lord thy God, which have brought thee out of the land of Egypt, out of the house of bondage. Thou shalt have no other gods before Me. Thou shalt not make unto thee any graven image, or any likeness of any thing that is in heaven above, or that is in the earth beneath, or that is in the water under the earth. Thou shalt not bow down thyself to them, nor serve them: for I the Lord thy God am a jealous God, visiting the iniquity of the fathers upon the children unto the third and fourth generation of them that hate Me; and shewing mercy unto thousands of them that love Me, and keep My commandments. Thou shalt not take the Name of the Lord thy God in vain; for the Lord will not hold him guiltless that takes His name in vain." (Exodus 20:1-7)

That Everyone Who Believes In Him -- JESUS -- May Have Eternal Life -- Part 1903

"But these are written, that ye might believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God; and that believing ye might have life through His Name." (John 20:31)

"I have written these things to you who believe in the Name of the Son of God, so that you may know that you have eternal life." (I John 5:13)

In the last post, considerable time was spent on reviewing scriptures about His Name -- the Name of the Lord Jesus Christ. We were privy to knowing that the Name of JESUS was given to us for salvation in this current dispensation of grace. We understood that JESUS is the Lamb of God. Similarly, that at the Name of JESUS every knee will bow and confess that He is Lord, to the glory of the God the Father.

For it is written, "As I live, saith the Lord, every knee shall bow to Me, and every tongue shall confess to God." (Romans 14:11)

"I have sworn by Myself, the Word is gone out of My mouth in righteousness, and shall not return, That unto Me every knee shall bow, every tongue shall swear." (Isaiah 45:23)

"That at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of things in heaven, and things in earth, and things under the earth ..." (Philippians 2:10)

That everything we do in both word or deed should be in the Name of JESUS. And that repentance and water baptism also, as modelled from the day of Pentecost forward includes being water baptized in the Name of the Lord Jesus Christ. (Acts 2:36-38) These revelations are critical for professing believers to understand, particularly when we know that the Name of JESUS has been and still is the Name that causes offence. Nevertheless, John tells us that we have life through His Name. Abundant life. Eternal life. 

From the scriptures, we learn from Jesus (after the cross) that we who believe can heal the sick in His Name, cast out demons in His Name, and drink anything poisonous and it will not hurt us -- through His precious Name. Indeed, when Jesus appeared unto the elven as they sat at meat, He upbraided them with their unbelief and hardness of heart, because they believe not them which had seen Him after He was risen. 

Herein, Jesus said unto His disciples, "Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature ... he that believes and is baptized shall be saved; but he that believes not shall be damned. And these signs shall follow them that believe; In My Name shall they cast out devils; they shall speak with new tongues; they shall take up serpents; and if they drink any deadly thing, it shall not hurt them; they shall lay hands on the sick, and they shall recover." (Mark 16:14-18)

In another example from Acts, we see that when the apostles had spoken unto the people, the priest and the captain of the temple, and the Sadducees came upon them and set them in the midst, asking, "By what power, or by what Name have ye done this?" (Acts 4:7)

Why is this important? Because the priests and captain of the temple, and the Sadducees were greatly disturbed [grieved] because the apostles "through Jesus were preaching the resurrection of the dead." As a consequence, they arrested Peter and John and imprisoned them until the next day. "Howbeit many of them which heard the Word believed; and the number of the men was about five thousand. 

Still, Annas the high priest, and Caiaphas, and John, and Alexander, and as many as were of the kindred of the high priest, were gathered together at Jerusalem" because these wanted to know by what power, or by what Name the apostles were doing this. (Acts 4:5-6) These were not content to know that these people who were once burdened under the worldly weight of sickness or madness had finally been set free from the entanglements wherein they were bound. These rulers wanted to know under what authority these apostles were able to do these things.

From the scriptures we see Peter, filled with the Holy Ghost, saying unto them, "Ye rulers of the people, and elders of Israel, If we this day be examined of the good deed done to the impotent man, by what means he is made whole; be it known unto you all, and to all the people of Israel, that by the Name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, whom ye crucified, whom God raised from the dead, even by Him doth this man stand here before you whole." (Acts 4:7-10)

And the same witness and testimony can be found in believing in the Name of the Lord Jesus this day. In His Name, we have eternal life. In His Name, the Comforter, the Holy Ghost whom the Father will send in My Name (states Jesus) He shall teach you all things and bring all things to your remembrance, whatsoever I have said unto you. (John 14:26; John 15:26; Acts 1:2-3)

But not everyone will believe. As Jesus said, "But all these things will they do unto you for My Name's sake, because they know not Him that sent Me." (John 15:21) 

But we who believe, we know the power that comes from the Name of JESUS, and should be willing to proclaim His precious holy Name to the entire world. So that everyone who believes in Him -- For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten ... that whosoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life -- eternal life -- abundant life in Him.

Stand in the offering plate. 

And In His Name Shall The Gentiles Trust; Holy Is His Name -- Part 1902

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 showed 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 forever." (Luke 1:46-55; Psalm 138:6; Luke 11:27; Psalm 71:19; Psalm 136:2-3; Psalm 111:9; Psalm 103:17; Psalm 98:1; Psalm 118:15; I Peter 5:5; I Samuel 2:1, 7-8, 10; Isaiah 41:8; Jeremiah 31:3; Isaiah 9:6; Romans 11:28; Genesis 17:7, 19; Habakkuk 3:18; I Timothy 1:1; I Timothy 3:16; I Timothy 2:3; Titus 3:4; Revelation 1:8) 

For the record, this is Mary, the mother of Jesus speaking herein, as she rejoices in God her Saviour. "For He that is mighty," she says, "hath done great things and Holy is His Name." (Luke 1:49) Note that the name Mary is speaking of here is singular. There is no plurality or triad god found in Mary's words, when she openly rejoices in God her Saviour. As well, Mary is giving praise and honour to the Name of JESUS, for "Holy is His Name!" 

There are numerous scriptures to confirm His Name, the only Name whereby we MUST be saved in this current dispensation of grace. (Acts 4:12) The only Name which is above every other name given to mankind. (Philippians 2:9) 

"And, behold, thou shalt conceive in thy womb, and bring forth a son, and shalt call His Name JESUS." (Luke 1:31) And ye shall call His Name JESUS, for He shall save His people from their sins. (Matthew 1:21-23) "And when eight days were accomplished for the circumcising of the child, His Name was called JESUS, which was so named of the angel before He was conceived in the womb." (Luke 2:21)

Jesus was the Lord's Christ that had been prophesied from before the foundation of the world. (Luke 2:25-32) In fact, Jesus was and is (to this very day) the redemption message. (Luke 2:36-38) The same spiritual ROCK that followed the Israelites through the parted sea. (I Corinthians 10:1-4) The same Head of the body of Christ church today. The same God who was manifest in the flesh so that we could personally know our Saviour. (I Timothy 3:16)

And, as John the baptizer consistently pointed out when he saw Jesus, "Behold, the Lamb of God!" 

Unfortunately, many who profess to believe in Jesus by faith have not understood His Name. Thus, this day, we are going to highlight some New Testament scriptures about the name when we pray without ceasing (as Jesus taught us to do) whispering from our hearts, "Hallowed be Thy Name!"  (Matthew 6:9-13; Luke 11:2) 

In so doing, we may also come to understand why Jesus said to His disciples in the mountain, "Many will say to Me in that day, Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in Thy Name? and in Thy Name have cast out devils? and in Thy Name done many wonderful works?" (Matthew 7:22; Numbers 24:4) For us, Jesus' words here should be quite sobering. Certainly, as we know from our modern day religious culture, there are many who heal the sick and prophesy and do wonderful works in the Name of Jesus and if performance is rated in and of itself, their ministries influential. 

But again, what does Jesus -- the Word that was made flesh and dwelt among us -- say? (John 1:1-18) That "many will say to Me in that day, Lord, Lord ..." (Matthew 7:22) Many will do all these things in the precious holy Name of the Lord Jesus, except be water baptized in Jesus' Name, and this is, in and of itself, the telling point. Does a person who believes want to be buried with Christ into His death, and therefore, when we are buried with Him by baptism unto death; that like as Christ was raised up from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life ..." (Romans 6:3-4) 

From the scriptures, there is an abundance of evidence validating that those who gladly received the Word in their hearts, wanted to also have the answer of a clear conscience toward God, by the resurrection of Jesus Christ. (I Peter 3:21-22) And this message not just delivered on the day of Pentecost, wherein the first 3,000 souls saved were baptized in the Name of the Lord Jesus Christ. (Acts 2:36-41)

But also, "when they believed Philip preaching the things concerning the kingdom of God, and the name of Jesus Christ, they were baptized, both men and women ... (For as yet He [the Holy Ghost] was fallen upon none of them: only they were baptized in the Name of the Lord Jesus.) " (Acts 8:12-16; Acts 10:44-48; Acts 19:1-7; Acts 2:38)

It is from this starting point of repentance and a clear conscience (born both of the water and of the Spirit as we see Jesus sharing with Nicodemus in John 3) that we who believe, like the multitudes that went before, and follow Jesus, saying,  "Hosanna to the Son of David: Blessed is he that comes in the Name of the Lord; Hosanna in the highest." (Mark 11:19; Matthew 21:9; Matthew 23:39; Luke 13:35; Luke 19:38)

Yes, it is for the Name of Jesus -- who is both Lord and Christ -- that we now gather together in His Name, and He Himself is in the midst, knowing with assurance that repentance and remission of sins should be preached in His precious holy Name among all nations, beginning at Jerusalem." (Matthew 18:20; Luke 24:47)

Other scriptures to consider?

Jesus said, "And whoso shall receive one such little child in my Name receives Me." (Matthew 18:5)

Jesus said, "Whosoever shall receive one of such children in My Name, receives Me: and whosoever shall receive Me, receivesnot Me, but Him that sent Me." And John answered him, saying, "Master, we saw one casting out devils in Thy Name and he follows not us: and we forbade him, because he followed not us." But Jesus said, "Forbid him not: for there is no man which shall do a miracle in My Name, that can lightly speak evil of Me for he that is not against us is on our part. For whosoever shall give you a cup of water to drink in My Name, because ye belong to Christ, verily I say unto youth shall not lose his reward ..."  (Mark 9:37-41)

Jesus said, "And every one that hath forsaken houses, or brethren, or sisters, or father, or mother, or wife, or children, or lands, for My Name's sake, shall receive an hundredfold, and shall inherit everlasting life." (Matthew 19:29)

Jesus said, "Then shall they deliver you up to be afflicted, and shall kill you: and ye shall be hated of all nations for My Name's sake." (Matthew 24:9)

Jesus said, "And these signs shall follow them that believe; In My Name shall they cast out devils; they shall speak with new tongues; they shall take up serpents, and if they drink any deadly thing, it shall not hurt them; and they shall lay hands on the sick and they shall recover." (Mark 16:17-18)

But also note that there will come a day when we, because of the Name of JESUS will be hated, because they hated Him first. And they shall lay their hands on those who believe, and persecute them, "delivering us up to the synagogues, and into prisons, being brought before kings and rulers for My Name's sake." (Luke 21:12) Jesus said, "And ye shall be hated of all men for My Name's sake." (Luke 21:17) 

Still, we are not to fear. Because 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 1:12; John 2:23) Jesus said, "... he that believes on Him is not condemned: but he that believes not is condemned already, because he hath not believed in the NAME of the only begotten Son of God." (John 3:18)

And just to be sure that we understand that Jesus came "in My Father's name" consider what Jesus said in John 5:43 "I am come in My Father's Name, and ye receive Me not: if another shall come in his own name, him ye will receive." (John 5:43) In another place, Jesus answered them, "I told you, and ye believed not: the works that I do in My Father's name, they bear witness of Me."(John 10:25)

And again, when Jesus was praying, "Father, glorify Thy Name." Then came there a voice from heaven, saying, "I have both glorified [it], and will glorify [it] again." (John 12:28) 

Instead of looking for another name, we need to come under submission to the very Name of JESUS that the angel of the Lord delivered to us -- His precious Name that was intended for this very time -- the dispensation of grace wherein we live, so that under His holy Name -- the Name of JESUS, our sins can be forgiven. (Matthew 1:21-23) This is why when we ask any thing in the Name of JESUS, He will do it, so that the Father may be glorified in the Son. (John 14:13; John 3:16; John 14:14; John 16:23-26) 

Jesus manifested Thy Name unto the world and said so in John 17:6. "I have manifested Thy Name unto the men which thou gave Me out of the world: Thine they were, and Thou gave them Me; and they have kept Thy Word." (John 17:6) 

Continuing, Jesus said, "And now I am no more in the world, but these are in the world, and I come to Thee. Holy Father, keep through Thine own Name those whom Thou hast given Me, that they may be one, as we are ... while I was with them in the world, I kept them in Thy Name; those that Thou gave Me I have kept, and none of them is lost, but the son of perdition; that the scripture might be fulfilled." (John 17:10-12)

"And I have declared unto them Thy Name, and will declare it: that the love wherewith Thou hast loved Me may be in them, and I in them." (John 17:26) 

Jesus said, "... ye have not chosen Me, but I have chosen you, and ordained you, that ye should go and bring forth fruit, and that your fruit should remain: that whatsoever ye shall ask of the Father in My Name, He may give it you." (John 15:16) 

Yes the sheep do hear His voice, and He calls His own sheep by Name and leads them out. (John 10:3) 

His Name is JESUS! The King of kings and Lord of lords, Alpha and Omega, the first and the last, the beginning and the ending. The One and Only JESUS who will not only save us from our sins, but similarly teach us all things, and bring all things that we need to our remembrance, "whatsoever I have said unto you!" (John 14:26)

Stand in the offering plate. 

Let The Beauty Of The Lord Our God Be Upon Us, And Establish Thou The Work Of Our Hands - Part 1901

"O the depth of the riches both of the wisdom and knowledge of God! how unsearchable are His judgments, and His ways past finding out! For who hath known the mind of the Lord? or who hath been His counsellor? Or who hath first given to Him, and it shall be recompensed unto Him again? For of Him, and through Him, and to Him, are all things: to whom be glory for ever. Amen." (Romans 11:33-36)

"For this is My covenant unto them when I shall take away their sins." (Romans 11:27; Isaiah 27:9)

"And she shall bring forth a son, and thou shalt call His Name JESUS, for He shall save His people from their sins." (Matthew 1:21-23)

As believers in Jesus by faith, we can be assured that our Lord God and Saviour Jesus the Christ does not hide His countenance and knowledge of Himself from those who love Him and worship Him with all their heart, soul, mind and strength. (Mark 12:29-31; Deuteronomy 6:4) Indeed, as the scripture declares, God has not cast away His people which He foreknew from the beginning. And, as history has repeatedly revealed, the Lord has always reserved to Himself a people who have not bowed the knee to the image of Baal. Similarly, there has been a historical testimony among His people. That is, the tokens of this world have no hold because our salvation is not of this world. 

Also, that our faith established on the day of Pentecost -- to remain steadfast in the apostolic church -- was established as the beginning of the New Testament church in Acts 2 -- when Peter (standing with the eleven) told the first 3,000 souls to be saved, that this same JESUS whom ye have crucified is both Lord and Christ. (Acts 2:36) Note too that when the people asked, "What must we do?" Peter said unto them, "Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the Name of the Lord Jesus Christ for the remission of sins and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost." (Acts 2:38-47)

And since then, the Lord beseeches us, by the mercies of God, that we present our bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God -- which is our reasonable service, and also, to not be confirmed to this world, but instead, transformed by the renewing of our mind that ye/we may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God. (Romans 12:1-2; II Corinthians 10:1-4; Hebrews 10:18-20; I John 2:15; Ephesians 4:23; I Thessalonians 4:3)

Taste and see that the Lord is good! Indeed, our Lord God and Saviour is THAT good, and much more! His love and mercies which endure forever are established in heaven for you and I. 

"But God, who is rich in mercy, for His great love wherewith He loved us, even when we were dead in sins, hath quickened us together with Christ, (by grace ye are saved;) and hath raised us up together, and made us sit together in heavenly places in Christ Jesus ... that in the ages to come He might shew the exceeding riches of His grace in His kindness toward us through Christ Jesus. For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God. Not of works, lest any man should boast. For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them." (Ephesians 4:4-10)

This is why believers in the Lord Jesus by faith rejoice evermore. It is in this context that we pray without ceasing, and in everything we do, we give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you. And that we quench not the Spirit, as the scripture declares, and neither do we despise not prophesying. Likewise, we are instructed to prove all things; hold fast that which is good; abstain from all appearance of evil; so that the very God of peace can sanctify you wholly. Paul wrote -- "I pray God your whole spirit and soul and body be preserved blameless unto the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ." (I Thessalonians 5:16-23; II Corinthians 6:10; Ephesians 6:18; Ephesians 4:30; I Corinthians 14:1, 31; I John 4:1; Philippians 4:9)

And to the end, that He may establish your hearts not blameable in holiness before God, even our Father, at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ with all His saints. (I Thessalonians 3:13) 

But sadly, there are many who willingly reject the Lord Jesus the Christ in their hearts and minds. These do not receive the good news gospel message which continually confirms that we were not appointed to wrath, but to obtain salvation by our Lord Jesus Christ, who shed His holy precious blood for us on a cross ... so that we, like the wise men of old, would come to worship Him. (Matthew 2:2; John 3:16; Titus 3:4-7) As a consequence, these reject the truth of the good news gospel wherein Jesus was observed sharing His message with the multitudes. 

His message? "Repent, for the Kingdom of heaven is at hand!" (Matthew 4:17)

But in our hearts we have been given a choice. We can straightway leave our nets and follow Jesus, or we can choose the meaningless things of this world, decidedly not framing their doings and turning to God. Hosea refers to this as the spirit of whoredom that remains in their midst because they have not known the name of God. (Hosea 4:5)

 " ... they sold the righteous for silver, and the poor for a pair of shoes, that pant after the dust of the earth on the head of the poor, and trust aside the way of the meek: and a man and his father will go in unto the same maid -- to profane My holy name." (Amos 2:6-8; II Kings 17:7-18; II Kings 18:12; Isaiah 29:21; Amos 4:1; Amos 5:11-12; Amos 8:6; Ezekiel 22:11; Leviticus 20:3; I Corinthians 8:10; Exodus 22:26)

"For I know your manifold transgressions and your mighty sins: they afflict the just, they take a bribe, and they turn aside the poor in the gate from their right." (Amos 5:12; Hosea 5:3; Amos 2:6; Isaiah 29:2)

How do we know them? Because these will readily oppress the poor and crushed the needy. Willingly these would wrong the righteous, perverting the way of the meek, while hoping to lay the souls of others less fortunate to any abomination. Yes, lots of signs to show that the hearts and motives of evil men are displayed, and that their skirts (as Nahum wrote) will be raised, so that their nation(s) appear naked before all men and the earthly kingdoms ashamed.

Still, we who believe in Jesus by faith have a greater hope, a higher calling to rise above the things of this world. We have a crown of jewels awaiting us because we rejoice in the Lord, joying in the God of our salvation.

The Lord God is my strength, and He will make my feet like hinds feet, and He will make me to walk upon Mine high places. (Habakkuk 3:18-19) He is the King of kings and His brightness and glories covers the heavens and the earth full of His praise. Meditate upon these things this day.

Stand in the offering plate.

The Holy Ghost This Signifying, That The Way Into The Holiest Of All Was Not Yet Made Manifest, While As The First Tabernacle Was Yet Standing - Part 1900

" ... even when we were dead in sins, hath quickened us together with Christ, (by grace ye are saved) ... for by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God ..." (Ephesians 2:5-8)

My fellow believers, let me use an every day illustration to make a point. We all know that a valid legal disposition -- a person's will and last testament -- cannot after his or her passing be set aside. At the same time, no one can legally make fresh provisions into it. So when we read that the promises were made to Abraham and to his offspring, this is exactly what the scriptures meant. The word offspring was not intended to be plural, as if many persons were meant. Instead, the reference to “thy offspring” indicated that only one person was meant. That one person was, and still is Christ.

Listen carefully to the message that is being delivered. The testament or covenant had already been validated by God. As such, it cannot now -- by virtue of a modern day religious culture -- be invalidated. The promises contained therein cannot be rendered ineffective by a law made four hundred and thirty years after the promises were given by God.

In this context, if our heritage is the result of the law, then it would have to have ceased being the result of God’s promise. Yet we read that God conferred it on Abraham by promise, for if the receiving of the promised blessing were to now be dependant on the law, that would amount to a cancellation of the original contract -- the same contract which God made with Abraham as a promise.

Now you might ask, "What was the use of the law?" As the scriptures point out, the law was a later addition to humankind but never was the law an addition or replacement to the promise. The express purpose of the law was to make men conscious of their wrong doing. A schoolmaster to point people to Christ. It was intended only to be observed until the coming of that promised offspring, spoken to Abraham as his offspring.

Let me repeat this point again. The law was an addition made to underscore the existence and the extent of sin until the arrival of “the Seed” to whom the promises were made. The law was enacted by the ministration of angels through the hands of [Moses who was] a mediator between God and the people. The intermediary was Moses. We also recognize that where there is a mediator, there must be two parties. But there is only one God.

There is no second party involved in the promises. God promised to deliver us from sin by Himself alone. He did so without angels or Moses in the middle. Now you might ask, "Is the law opposed to the promises of God?" Most certainly not. In fact, such a thought ought not to be entertained in your mind. The truth is this. If it had been at all possible for spiritual life to have been attained by law, then justification would have been assured by the same law. Unfortunately, that was an impossibility because there is none that are righteous. We all have sinned.

In this context, the whole world is contaminated. We are all in the bondage of sin, or as some might say, we are all in the custody of sin. This is why we needed a law to expose our sin. We needed to learn the lesson of hard knocks. Do you remember the analogy? After we leave school, we enter the school of life. Herein, we attend two schools -- one of these schools being the school of hard knocks and the second school the school of knee-ology. I hear you already saying, "What on earth is that school?" Well, the latter school becomes important when your back is against the wall, your friends have all jumped ship, you're broke, in tears, and possibly looking for an escape.

But now, by the grace of God, you can drop on your knees and call upon your faithful creator Jesus. This is the same Jesus who loves you with an everlasting love. He is the one who does not want you or anyone should perish. You don’t need a law now.  You need His mercy.

This is why the gospel message is so powerful. At one time, we were all clothed in a fallen natural body. But through the shedding of blood (the Lamb of God), there is now remission of sin. We can be saved. Like the prodigal son who thought he had everything in his life under control, we also can hear our heavenly Father's whisper, “Welcome home! This is my son who was once dead but now alive again."

At the end of the day, it is HIS GRACE AND MERCY that will take care of you. Or like the psalms state, "When tears fall down like falling rain, then I turn around and call upon His name." Jesus the seed of the holy Spirit wants to meet you. Indeed, let Him whisper sweet "peace to you" too.

Today is the day of salvation! Stand in the offering plate.

If The Son Therefore Shall Make You Free, Ye Shall Be Free Indeed- Part 1899

And He said unto me, "It is done. I am Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the end. I will give unto him that is athirst of the fountain of the water of life freely." (Revelation 21:6)

At midnight, Paul and Silas, who were imprisoned at the time, lifted up their voices in songs of praise. Their collective thanksgiving was directed toward the Lord, who brought them into a new life that the unbelieving world denied. Within this new life, God had removed the scales of unbelief from their eyes. Now, as believers, Paul and Silas could see and know assuredly that He was watching over them

How did they know? Well, first the two recognized that their Lord neither slumbers nor sleeps. Indeed, the Lord sings along with His people. And, in actual fact, the Lord is the theme of their song. When on earth, Jesus said that a day would come when believers would no longer worship only in Jerusalem, but that true worshippers would worship in the Spirit of truth. We witness these same world-wide blessings today.

Often, when one awakens from night sleep, he or she is aware that music and singing is already filling their inner Spirit. In many cases, this music can be likened to a full orchestra, complete with musicians and a choir. The music filling our hearts and minds and doing exceedingly well without our two cents contribution. Sometimes, the music is so engaging that we cannot do any thing except sing along to the beat. All of this happens without our conscious programming.

Just like the prodigal son, who, upon returning home from his wayward journey, heard the sound of music and dancing off in the distance. And to his amazement their was no admission charge included in the "welcome home" party.  Why? Because the admission fee was already paid in full. If the world only knew of the goodness of God, and the unexpected blessings about to be bestowed on Paul and Silas.

At midnight, the pair lifted their voices to their Lord. In so doing, their song did not just hit the prison walls and bounce back. No, something else happened. Remember the scriptures that state that God works in mysterious ways?  Here is a prime example. There was yet another individual in prison -- the jailer. Unbeknownst to Paul and Silas or the other prisoners, God had arranged an appointment with the jailer beforehand - perhaps, special visiting hours -- although this individual had no inclination that salvation was about to come to his household.

Well, the singing and the praying continued throughout the night. All the prisoners listened because like it or not, Paul and Silas were having church. And church it was. The two were engaged and singing hymns because they knew that "where two or three are gathered together to worship Jesus, there Jesus will be in their midst." But guess what happened.

God turned up. Something like Forest Gump did in one of his movies. But his entrance didn't even begin to compare to this experience. That is because God is so full of surprises. His actions are not predictable according the wisdom of human thinking. "Who has known the mind of the Lord? Who has been His counsellor?"

Still, just like the sequence of events that transpired in Acts chapter 2, a miracle was about to occur. In this case, a violent earthquake shook the jail to its foundations. The doors that imprisoned Paul and Silas flew open simultaneously, releasing the chained and fettered hands of prisoners. The jailer, startled out of his sleep, was petrified. His eyes popping wide open as he beheld that the cells were all open. He became scared at the thought of punishment or worse, the fate that would be determined when the powers that be arrived and found the cells empty.

The jail guard drew his sword, figuring that he may as well end life now. Sooner rather than later, he thought, fully intending to end his life. Paul, viewing the jail guard's actions shouted aloud at the top of his voice, "Do yourself no harm," he said. The jailer who was by this time trembling terror stricken approached Paul and Silas. The jailer asked, "Men, what is necessary for me to do to be saved?" He was told to believe in and on the Lord Jesus the Christ. That is, to give himself up to the Lord God who created him and then lay down His life for him.

In other words, God is speaking the same message to you this day. Take yourself out of your own keeping and entrust yourself into His keeping, and you will be saved. Like the jail guard, this message of salvation also applies to them within your household.  When Paul and Silas spoke the word of the Lord to the jail guard, Paul and Silas then went on to baptize the jailer and members of his household by immersion and without delay.

As a consequence, the jailer and his household rejoiced because both he and all his household had come to believe in God. Acts 16 provides an account of these events. The message here is simple. If you are seeking after God and the preacher has long time ago forsaken the preaching of the true gospel, then maybe you are fortunate enough to still have some of the old hymnals available.  May I suggest that you digest the words of the hymnals, the words that were penned by believers of an earlier age, and let the atmosphere of their words take root in your heart. Most of all, accept Jesus into your life and be saved so that you too can be awakened out of a deep sleep singing "Rock of Ages."

Remember our Lord God and Saviour Jesus the Christ is full of surprises that reach far beyond the comprehension and understanding. Amazing grace and God's salvation to you and I is really just the beginning. Nevertheless, both and much more can be yours for the asking.

Stand in the offering plate.