While The Wicked Do Wickedly, The Wise In the Lord Jesus Shall Understand, And Shall Shine As The Brightness Of The Firmament - Part 1941

"And the king spake unto Ashpenaz the master of his eunuchs, that he should bring certain of the children of Israel, and of the king's seed, and of the princes, children in whom was no blemish, but well favoured and skillful in all wisdom and cunning in knowledge, and understanding science, and such as had ability in them to stand in the king's palace, and whom they might teach the learning and the tongue of the Chaldeans ... " (Daniel 1:3-4) 

You see, even in the days of old, those in authority (i.e. the kings) favoured those who were considered skillful in all wisdom and cunning in knowledge; those who understood science and had the ability to teach the learning [writing] and the tongue of the Chaldeans. For the world, the 'knowledge is power' cliche comes to mind. 

Still, how many scriptural examples reveal to us that worldly wisdom is of no consequence in terms of the Lord Jesus? And similarly, that there exists a knowledge and wisdom that cannot be found in earthly constructs, because the Lord's wisdom supersedes all the things of this world. To this end, apostle Paul had it right, when he said, "For the Kingdom of God is not in word but in power." (I Corinthians 4:20; I Thessalonians 1:5) And that, as believers in the Lord Jesus, our faith should not stand in the wisdom of men, but rather, in the power of God.

"Howbeit we speak wisdom among them that are perfect; yet not the wisdom of this world, nor of the princes of this world, that come to nought; but we speak the wisdom of God in a mystery, [even] the hidden wisdom, which God ordained before the world unto our glory, which NONE of the princes of this world knew: for had they known [it], they would not have crucified the Lord of glory!" (I Corinthians 2:6-8) 

Moreover, Paul tells those who listened that the foolishness of God is wiser than men, and the weakness of God is stronger than men. "For you see your calling, brethren, how that not many wise men after the flesh, not many mighty, not many noble are called; but God hath chosen the foolish things of the world to confound the wise; and God hath chosen the weak things of the world to confound the things which are mighty; and base things of the world, and things which are despised hath God chosen, yea, and things which are not, to bring to nought things that are: that no flesh should glory in His presence ..." (I Corinthians 2:24-29)

We also know this from numerous scriptural examples that the wise of this world are confounded by those who believe. In one scripture, the people acknowledged in their hearts that the disciples had to have been with Jesus because in their own minds, these were unlearned and ignorant men. 

"Now when they saw the boldness of Peter and John, and perceived that they were unlearned and ignorant men, they marvelled; and they took knowledge of them, that they had been with Jesus." (Acts 4:13)

As well, Stephen (one of the chosen seven of honest report, full of the Holy Ghost and wisdom) offers yet another example. Therein, suborned [bribed] men spoke blasphemous words against God, stirring up the people and elders and scribes. But Stephen's testimony, as we know from reading Acts 6 and 7 is telling. His testimony so sufficient that Jesus stood up when Stephen's accusers stoned him to death. (Acts 6:8-15; Acts 7:1-60)

You see, that when believers lift Jesus as their Lord God and Saviour, He draws all men unto Him. He opens the doors that the world cannot open, and likewise shuts the doors to those places where we no longer need to be. But to get there, we need to seek the Lord Jesus with all our heart, soul, mind, and strength. We need to be grounded knowing from whence comes our salvation. 

Jesus told His disciples -- "If ye have faith as a grain of mustard seed ..." (Matthew 17:20)

This same message applies to us this day. But too often, we let the cares of this world sidetrack us from the heavenly things that matter most. Like the rich ruler, we too often forget the first commandment, even when Jesus said, " ... who shall not receive manifold more in this present time, and in the world to come life everlasting!"(Luke 18:30)

But the Lord of hosts says, the wise in the Lord shall understand, and shall shine as the brightness of the firmament. Ponder these things in your heart and in your day to day, and ask our Lord God and Saviour Jesus the Christ to lead and guide you in everything you set out to do. For He is the King of kings and Lord of lords. The Alpha and Omega, the first and the last, the beginning and the ending. And He -- the Son of man who is the Lord of glory -- never fails. 

"And the glory of the Lord shall be revealed and all flesh shall see it together; for the mouth of the Lord hath spoken it ..." (Isaiah 40:5)

Stand in the offering plate.

But God Who Is Rich In Mercy, For His Great Love Wherewith He Loved Us - Part 1940

"And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God, saying, "Glory to God in the highest and on earth peace, good will toward men." (Luke 2:13-14) In another place, Luke writes -- "Blessed be the King that comes in the Name of the true Lord: peace in heaven and glory in the highest." (Luke 19:38)

So, what is the Name of the true Lord? This is a good question and sadly, a question that still confuses people to this day. Nevertheless, like we do, God also has a Name. In the old covenant, God used over 100 names to identify Himself to those who sought Him in their day to day. Therefore, it should not come as a surprise that in the New Testament side God gave us another Name -- one that is linked to salvation. Indeed, the ONLY name whereby we must be saved in this current dispensation of grace. (Acts 4:12)

To that end, the birth of the promised Messiah -- the prophesied Christ --marked a new beginning. More than the blank page which separates the old from the new in our Bibles. And this came to pass, when the angel of the Lord announced the precious holy Name of "JESUS" to all the world. "And ye shall call His Name JESUS -- for He shall save His people from their sins." (Matthew 1:21)

The true I/Emmanuel, which being interpreted, God with us! (Matthew 1:23) And as we understand from the scriptures, His Name -- the Name of JESUS -- was announced BEFORE Mary conceived. The Holy Ghost this signifying that this was the appointed time for the dayspring from on high to visit His people. (Hebrews 9:8, 14) And as Mary points out, "For He that is mighty hath done to me great things and holy is His Name." (Luke 1:49)

"Unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, who is Christ the Lord." (Luke 2:11) "This day have I begotten Thee!" saith the Lord God. This is confirmed when Peter said on the day of Pentecost, that "this same Jesus whom ye have crucified is both Lord and Christ." (Acts 2:36) But I digress somewhat.

What is important is to see the reactions of those who witnessed the birth of Jesus. First, Luke records how Mary's soul magnified the Lord, and that her spirit acknowledged that God had literally become her Saviour. For Mary, the mother of Jesus, this was no ordinary occasion. It was not just another passing day. But rather, as the angel said to 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)

But there is more. When the angel of the Lord came upon the country shepherds, and the glory of the Lord shone all around, and they were sore afraid, what did the angel say? "Fear not; for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to ALL people, for unto you is born this day in the city of David, a Saviour which is Christ the Lord. And this shall be a sign unto you: ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger. And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God, and saying, "Glory to God in the highest, and on earth, peace, good will toward man." (Luke 2:8-14)

As noted in the scriptures, the shepherds did not waste any time in broadcasting the news. Indeed, the shepherds desired in their hearts to see this thing which is/has come to pass, which the Lord hath made known unto them. (Luke 2:15) When they had seen, these same shepherds made known abroad the saying which was told them concerning the child. “And all who heard it wondered at what the shepherds told them.” (Luke 2:16-18)
Also, 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.

JESUS -- the only Name given under heaven whereby we must be saved. (Acts 4:12)

JESUS -- the Name that is above every other name. (Philippians 2:9) 

Therefore, as believers in JESUS by faith, we come to trust in this Name because in the Name of JESUS, there is healing, and deliverance, salvation and victory, sustenance and spiritual manna, and renewal of both our hearts and minds. JESUS is the Name we are water baptized in. (Acts 2:36-41)

It should also be noted that the precious Name of JESUS was the offence within society, even then, during the times of the early church. This is why the apostles were commanded not to preach or teach in the Name of JESUS ... because the system type authorities (both religious and political) whose livelihoods were threatened did not want ordinary people to know that there is abundant life in His Name. Still, what did the Lord Jesus say when He walked this earth? 

"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. If ye love Me, keep My commandments ..." (John 14:13)

Yes, "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 .... That at that time ye were without Christ, being aliens from the commonwealth of Israel, and strangers from the covenants of promise, having no hope, and without God in the world.

But now in Christ Jesus ye who sometimes were far off are made nigh by the blood of Christ. For He is our peace, who hath made both one, and hath broken down the middle wall of partition between us;" (Ephesians 2:4-10, 12-14)

God Himself brought forth toward men and women everywhere a proclamation of peace and good will. After His kindness, He showed His love for His beloved creation on that cross when He willingly became our Saviour. In other words, for us to know the Lord God who created us in the beginning, there had to be a perfect sacrifice. Thus, no other sacrifice would have been sufficient for our salvation. With this understanding, our hearts be joyful, like that of Simeon who recognized JESUS as the prophesied Lord's Christ. (Luke 2:26)

The same salvation of the Lord which He prepared before the face of all people -- a light to lighten the Gentiles, and the glory of Thy people Israel. (Luke 2:25-32)

"Behold, the Lamb of God!" The Good Shepherd which gave His life for the lost sheep. He is the treasure that we should be seeking every moment of every day, for He is the giver of life. And this same God has a Name, a most precious holy Name given specifically to us.

It is no wonder that Jesus said, "I am the door: by Me if any man enter in, He shall be saved, and shall go in and out and find pasture." (John 10:9)

Stand in the offering plate.

Jesus Said, " ... The Water That I Shall Give Him Shall Be In Him A Well Of Water Springing Up Into Everlasting Life!" - Part 1939

What will it take for us to understand that the Lord Jesus is the Bread of Life? That Jesus is the living water that if we would only taste, we will never thirst again? That this same Jesus whom ye/we have crucified is both Lord and Christ. The same God who created us in the beginning loved us enough to shed His precious holy blood on a cross so that we might have life.

For God so loved ...

Most certainly, it didn't take long before the society shamed woman at the well understood who Jesus was, and how much He loved His beloved, that He would leave His place of glory so that He Himself could personally deliver to us His free gift of salvation --- His glory displayed for one and all to see on that old rugged cross! Why now? Because this day is the day of salvation. Plus, the time is short! Even creation right now is groaning for the return of its Master!

Jesus said, "I am the Way, the Truth, and the Life. No man comes to the Father but by Me." Why? Because Jesus is the King of kings and Lord of lords! He is Alpha and Omega, the first and the last, the beginning and the ending. God manifest in the flesh so that we might find salvation and hope and love in Him. Our all in all when we ask Jesus to become both Lord and Christ in our very essence. And the woman at the well? Read the account for yourself and know that there is no other way to eternal life than through Jesus.
"Now Jacob's well was there. Jesus therefore, being wearied with His journey, sat thus on the well: and it was about the sixth hour. There cometh a woman of Samaria to draw water: Jesus saith unto her, "Give me to drink." (For His disciples were gone away unto the city to buy meat.)

Then saith the woman of Samaria unto him, "How is it that Thou, being a Jew, asks drink of me, which am a woman of Samaria?" for the Jews have no dealings with the Samaritans. Jesus answered and said unto her, "If thou knewest the gift of God, and who it is that saith to thee, "Give me to drink" thou wouldest have asked of Him, and He would have given thee living water." The woman saith unto Him, "Sir, Thou hast nothing to draw with, and the well is deep: from whence then hast Thou that living water? Art Thou greater than our father Jacob, which gave us the well, and drank thereof himself, and his children, and his cattle?"

Jesus answered and said unto her, "Whosoever drinketh of this water shall thirst again: but whosoever drinketh of the water that I shall give him shall never thirst; but the water that I shall give him shall be in him a well of water springing up into everlasting life."

The woman saith unto him, "Sir, give me this water, that I thirst not, neither come hither to draw." Jesus saith unto her, "Go, call thy husband, and come hither." The woman answered and said, "I have no husband." Jesus said unto her, "Thou hast well said, I have no husband: For thou hast had five husbands; and he whom thou now hast is not thy husband: in that saidst thou truly." The woman saith unto him, "Sir, I perceive that Thou art a prophet. Our fathers worshipped in this mountain; and ye say, that in Jerusalem is the place where men ought to worship."

Jesus saith unto her, "Woman, believe Me, the hour cometh, when ye shall neither in this mountain, nor yet at Jerusalem, worship the Father. Ye worship ye know not what: we know what we worship: for salvation is of the Jews. But the hour cometh, and now is, when the true worshippers shall worship the Father in Spirit and in Truth: for the Father seeketh such to worship Him. God is a Spirit: and they that worship Him must worship Him in Spirit and in Truth."

The woman saith unto Him, "I know that Messias cometh, which is called Christ: when He is come, He will tell us all things." Jesus saith unto her," I that speak unto thee am He."

And upon this came His disciples, and marvelled that He talked with the woman: yet no man said, "What seekest Thou?" or, "Why talkest Thou with her?" The woman then left her waterpot, and went her way into the city, and saith to the men, "Come, see a man, which told me all things that ever I did: is not this the Christ?" Then they went out of the city, and came unto Him. In the mean while His disciples prayed Him, saying, "Master, eat." But He said unto them, "I have meat to eat that ye know not of." Therefore said the disciples one to another, "Hath any man brought Him ought to eat?"

Jesus saith unto them, "My meat is to do the will of Him that sent Me, and to finish His work. Say not ye, There are yet four months, and then cometh harvest? behold, I say unto you, Lift up your eyes, and look on the fields; for they are white already to harvest. And he that reapeth receiveth wages, and gathereth fruit unto life eternal: that both he that soweth and he that reapeth may rejoice together. And herein is that saying true, "One soweth, and another reapeth." I sent you to reap that whereon ye bestowed no labour: other men laboured, and ye are entered into their labours." And many of the Samaritans of that city believed on Him for the saying of the woman, which testified, "He told me all that ever I did." 

So when the Samaritans were come unto Him, they besought Him that He would tarry with them: and He abode there two days. And many more believed because of His own Word; and said unto the woman, "Now we believe, not because of thy saying: for we have heard Him ourselves, and know that this is indeed the Christ, the Saviour of the world." (John 4:5-42)

Indeed, the hour has come when we must worship the Lord our God, our Saviour Jesus the Christ in Spirit and in Truth. As such, it is time to move away from the false triad and trinity teachings which have no basis in the scriptures, and to come out from among them so we do not suffer their plagues. Those who believe need to trust the Lord for our sustenance and sanctification. If you don't understand, please find a New Testament and begin reading, for as the scripture clearly states, "when ye see these things happening, know that your salvation drawers nigh!"

Stand in the offering plate.

He That Hath Two Coats, Let Him Impart To Him That Hath None; And He That Hath Meat, Let Him Do Likewise - Part 1938

"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 5:19-20)

For this free gift of salvation wherein the Lord God has imputed our trespasses, and similarly, He hath committed unto us the Word of reconciliation, we ought to be very thankful. His mercy and grace and kindness extended to us whilst we were still His enemies, having yet to repent and ask God our Saviour Jesus the Christ into our heart. (Titus 3:4-7; I Timothy 3:16; Isaiah 9:6; Matthew 1:21-23; Acts 2:36-41)

But if our salvation started and stopped at repentance and water baptism in the precious Name of the Lord Jesus, we would fall short of putting on charity ... wherein the Comforter, the Holy Ghost leads and guides us into all truth, teaching us about "endeavouring to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace." (Ephesians 4:3)

You see, as believers in the Lord Jesus by faith, we should desire to forbear one another, and to forgive one another. Indeed, "if any man have a quarrel against any; even as Christ forgave you, so also do ye. And above all these things, put on charity, which is the bond of perfectness." (Colossians 3:13-14; Mark 11:25; I Peter 4:3; I Corinthians 13:1-13)

Perfectness, as described in the Merriam-Webster dictionary, is the same as absoluteness, completeness, entirety, fullness, entireness, or wholeness. In other words, there can be no more perfect added that could further complete the bond of perfectness, because to the Lord, we are already perfect when we put on charity. A flow through of His love to those around us.

So, how do we endeavour to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace? By remembering that each and every believer is a member of one body, and one Spirit, even as ye are called in one hope of your calling; One Lord, One faith, One baptism, One God and Father of all, who is above all, and through all and in you all." (Ephesians 4:3-6; Colossians 3:14; Romans 12:5; I Corinthians 1:13; Jude 1:3; Hebrews 6:6)

Because of His unfailing love and kindness toward man, we should strive to reach the "one accord" that is spoken of in the day of Pentecost, wherein the first 3,000 souls saved into the new testament body of Christ church, loved one another enough to ensure that no one in their midst was without. (Acts 2:36-47) It was here that apostle Peter (standing with the eleven) first told those in attendance that this same Jesus whom ye have crucified is both Lord and Christ. (Acts 2:36) This marked the beginning of the New Testament, body of Christ church, wherein Jesus is the Head.

What we see here in Acts 2, is that the people who gladly received His Word repented, and were water baptized in the Name of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the same day there were added unto them about three thousand souls. And these continued steadfastly in the apostles' doctrine and fellowship and in breaking of bread, and in prayers. And fear came upon every soul: and many wonders and signs were done by the apostles.

"And all that believed were together and had all things common; and sold their possessions and goods and parted them to all [men], as every man had need. And they, 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. And the Lord added to the church daily such as should be saved. (Acts 2:41-47)

Continuing -- "above all these things put on charity, which is the bond of perfectness, and let the peace of God rule in your hearts, to the which also ye are called in one body; and be ye thankful ..." and also, "let the Word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom; teaching and admonishing one another in psalms and hymns, and spiritual songs, singing with grace in your hearts to the Lord." (Colossians 3:13-16; Mark 11:25)

And if this means giving a coat or meat or drink to another person in need, so be it, because as the Lord Jesus said, "by our love for one another" will they know we are His disciples. The JESUS people! But there is even more to learn here. Our love toward others has to be a heart endeavour wherein the word or deed that we are doing is in the precious Name of Jesus the Christ, giving thanks to God and the Father by Him. (Colossians 3:17; Acts 4:12; Philippians 2:9)

You see, as believers in the Lord Jesus by faith, we should want to go that extra mile in our day to day because we are called to be "profitable" servants, wherein we bear fruit. And part of this -- as we see from Jesus' dialogue with the scribe -- is to first love the Lord thy God with all our heart, soul, mind, and strength, and from His abundance of love flowing through us, to love one another. (Mark 12:29-31; Deuteronomy 6:4-5)

Do you remember when Jesus said, "Doth he thank that servant because he did the things that were commanded him? I trow [think] not. So likes ye, when ye shall have done all those things which are commanded you, say, "We are unprofitable servants; we have done that which was our duty to do." (Luke 17:9-10)

Still, we who believe in the Lord Jesus by faith were never intended to be unprofitable, barely performing the minimum required, or only those commandments so we can squeak by, Rather, as we see in the scriptures, we who believe are instructed to stand fast in the liberty wherewith is Christ, and to do His bidding. (Galatians 5:1; I Samuel 22:14)

Paul and Timothy said unto Philemon -- "I beseech thee for my son Onesimus, whom I have begotten in my bonds: which in time past was to thee unprofitable, but now profitable to thee and to me: whom I have sent again: thou therefore receive him, that is, mine own bowels: whom I would have retained with me, that in thy stead he might have ministered unto me in the bonds of the gospel ... but without thy mind would I do nothing; that thy benefit should not be as it were of necessity, but willingly. For perhaps, he therefore departed for a season, that thou shouldest receive him for ever; not now as a servant, but above a servant, a brother beloved, specially to me, but how much more unto thee, both in the flesh, and in the Lord?" (Philemon 1:10-16)

In fact, apostle Paul went further, stating that if the people count Paul as a partner, these should also receive their dearly beloved and fellow labourer Philemon. Paul also said that if Philemon had wronged any of them, or owed them money, the people were to put that on Paul's account, and he would repay it. 

Yes, as believers in the Lord Jesus Christ by faith, we are called to go the distance -- that extra mile for those in the body of Christ. In forgiving one another. In sharing His love and mercy and grace with others. In helping one another in their burdens. In standing firm on the Rock so that we are not tossed to and fro by the wiles of this world, and can be counted upon and trusted by those who are seeking the Lord, but have not yet understood why their hearts are wanting.

For believers, this is why we pray without ceasing and rejoice evermore. This is why we declare "peace be" before we enter a building. This is why we seek peace in all that we do, so that we can all be of one mind, having compassion one of another, loving people as brethren, and not rendering evil for evil or railing for railing. Contrariwise to the ways of this world, we render blessing to those who curse us, because when we suffer for righteousness sake, we cannot be troubled, because the Lord has a re-reward for those who are faithful to His Word. This is why the Lord God sanctifies in our hearts (through truth -- Thy Word is truth) and should always be ready to give an answer to every man that asks you to explain the hope that is within you. (John 17:17)

Further, Paul who describes himself as a servant of God and an apostle of Jesus Christ, according to the faith of God's elect, and the acknowledging of truth which is after godliness --- we are to "put them in mind to be subject to principalities and powers, to obey magistrates, to be ready to every good work, to speak evil of no man, to be no brawlers, but gentle, shewing all meekness unto all men.

For we ourselves also were sometimes foolish, disobedient, deceived, serving divers lusts and pleasures, living in malice and envy, hateful, and hating one another. 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.

This is a faithful saying, and these things I will that thou affirm constantly, that they which have believed in God might be careful to maintain good works. These things are good and profitable unto men. But avoid foolish questions, and genealogies, and contentions, and strivings about the law; for they are unprofitable and vain." (Titus 3:1-10)

There is that word again -- profitable. Where else in the scriptures is profitable used?

In I Timothy -- "For bodily exercise profiteth little: but godliness is profitable unto all things, having promise of the life that now is, and of that which is to come." (I Timothy 4:8)

In Acts -- "Ye know, from the first day that I came into Asia, after what manner I have been with you at all seasons, serving the Lord with all humility of mind, and with many tears, and temptations, which befell me by the lying in wait of the Jews: and how I kept back nothing that was profitable unto you, but have shewed you, and have taught you publickly, and from house to house, testifying both to the Jews, and also to the Greeks, repentance toward God, and faith toward our Lord Jesus Christ. 

And now, behold, I go bound in the Spirit unto Jerusalem, not knowing the things that shall befall me there: save that the Holy Ghost witnesses in every city, saying that bonds and afflictions abide me. But none of these things move me, neither count I my life dear unto myself, so that I might finish my course with joy, and the ministry, which I have received of the Lord Jesus, to testify the gospel of the grace of God. And now, behold, I know that ye all, among whom I have gone preaching the kingdom of God, shall see my face no more ... wherefore I take you to record this day, that I am pure from the blood of all men. For I have not shunned to declare unto you all the counsel of God.

Take heed therefore unto yourselves, and to all the flock, over the which the Holy Ghost hath made you overseers, to feed the church of God, which He hath purchased with His own blood. For I know this, that after my departing shall grievous wolves enter in among you, not sparing the flock. Also of your own selves shall men arise, speaking perverse things, to draw away disciples after them." (Acts 20:18-28)

Perhaps, I am getting ahead of myself here. Other scriptures point to forbearing and forgiving one another, and striving to do more than would ever be expected by the recipient. Indeed, Jesus told us to take heed to ourselves -- "for if thy brother trespass against thee, rebuke him, but if he repents, forgive him." The disciples asked Him, "How many times?" The Lord Jesus said, "And if he trespass against thee seven times in a day, and seven times in a day turn again to thee, saying, "I repent" thou shalt forgive him." (Luke 17:3-4; Matthew 18:15-21; Proverbs 17:10)

Note that the apostles did not respond by rebelling, saying, -- "But Lord!" The disciples said unto Him, "Increase our faith!" (Luke 17:5) I have to wonder what it would take (within our own hearts) to forgive our brother 490 times, but also, to understand the underlying message of our Lord herein. That is, Lord, increase our faith. And as if those words were not sufficient, Jesus tells His disciples (and us by extension) about the mustard seed. He says,

"If ye had faith as a grain of mustard seed, ye might say unto this sycamine tree -- be thou plucked up by the root, and be thou planted in the sea, and it should obey you. But which of you, having a servant plowing or feeding cattle, will say unto him by and by, when he is come from the field, "Go and sit down to meat?" And will not rather say unto him, "Make ready wherewith I may sup, and gird myself, till I have eaten and drunken, and afterward thou shalt eat and drink?" (Luke 17:6-8; Mark 9:33; Mark 11:23; Luke 12:37)

In another place, Jesus answered them, saying, "Have faith in God. For verily I say unto you ... that whosoever shall say unto this mountain, be thou removed, and be cast into the sea; but shall believe that those things which He saith shall come to pass, he shall have whatsoever He saith. therefore I say unto you, what things soever ye desire, when ye pray, believe that ye receive, and ye shall have.

And when ye stand praying, forgive, if ye have ought against any: that your Father also which is in heaven may forgive you your trespasses. But if ye do not forgive, neither will your Father which is in heaven forgive your trespasses." (Mark 11:22-26; Matthew 17:30; Matthew 21;21; Matthew 7:7; Colossians 3:13; Matthew 6:15; Matthew 18:35)

Many lessons to be learned here today. Just remember that our re-reward is in heaven. In the interim, we should continue to make a joyful noise unto the Lord, and to give Him all the glory and honour and praise for He is the King of kings and Lord of lords, and He deserves all the glory. To Him, our Lord God and Saviour Jesus the Christ, forever and ever, amen.

Stand in the offering plate.

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! - Part 1937

"They are all gone out of the way, they are together become unprofitable; there is none that doeth good, no, not one." (Romans 3:12) For all have sinned and fallen short of the glory of God. (Romans 3:23)

As it is written, "There is none righteous, no, not one. There is none that understands, there is none that seeks after God. They are all gone out of the way, they are together become unprofitable; there is none that does good, no, not one. Their throat is an open sepulchre; with their tongues they have used deceit, the poison of asps is under their lips; whose mouth is full of cursing and bitterness: their feet are swift to shed blood; destruction and misery are in their ways; and the way of peace have they not known; there is no fear of God before their eyes." (Romans 3:10-18; Psalm 14:1-3; Psalm 53:1-3; Ecclesiastes 7:20; Psalm 5:9; Psalm 140:3; Psalm 10:7; Proverbs 1:16; Isaiah 59:7-8; Psalm 36:1)

"Which in time past was to Thee unprofitable, but now profitable to Thee and to me ... "(Philemon 1:11)

If we are honest, we will admit that at one time or another, each and every one of us was in a place wherein the love of God our Saviour did not [yet] dwell in our hearts. That there was a time when we did not seek the Lord of glory with all our hearts, souls, minds, and strength. Instead, our desires were earthly, and at the end of the day, our ambitions without hope. Like so many, we reasoned -- past tense -- with unprofitable talk, and with speeches wherewith no good could be the outcome. (Job 15:3) 

Thus, we recognize that had we not met Jesus as our Lord and Christ, and desired more of His presence in our day to day, wherein we seek Him in everything that we do, we too may have been classified as that "unprofitable servant" cast into outer darkness, where there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth. (Matthew 25:30) 

But some kind soul came along and told you about the good news gospel of the Lord Jesus Christ and His Kingdom. These shared the goodness and grace and mercy of a Lord who only wanted our best interests. And how this same Lord who created man and woman in the beginning still loved us enough -- as His beloved -- to shed His precious holy blood on an old rugged cross so that you might have abundant life in Him.

"And for this cause, He is the mediator of the New Testament, that by means of death, for the redemption of the transgressions that were under the first testament, they which are called might receive the promise of eternal inheritance. For where a testament is, there must also of necessity be the death of the testator. For a testament is of force after men are dead: otherwise, it is of no strength at all while the testator lives. Whereupon neither the first testament was dedicated without blood." (Hebrews 9:15-18) 

Yes, the Lord of glory left heaven to personally deliver to us His last will and testament. As a consequence, our assurance of salvation is secure in Him. And He continues to be faithful in fulfilling all of His promises to the people who trust in Him..

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

And He did so in order that we could stand fast in the liberty wherewith is Christ. (Galatians 5:1) This is why we no longer have our thoughts and desires in this world. It also explains why we have moved beyond foolish questions, and genealogies, and contentions, and strivings about the law, for they are unprofitable and vain. (Titus 3:9; Hebrews 7:8) Because as His redeemed, and having been clothed in His righteousness in water baptism, and filled with the Holy Ghost, we no longer want to be unprofitable in the things we do. 

Rather, our desires are heavenly. As such, we want to fulfill the purpose that the Lord God Himself placed in our hearts whilst we were yet in our mother's wombs, having made the right decision when we repented of our sin, and asked the Lord Jesus to come into our heart. Thus, we draw near with a true heart in full assurance of faith, having our hearts sprinkled from an evil conscience, and our bodies washed with pure water, holding fast the profession of our faith without wavering, for He is faithful that promised. (Hebrews 10:22-23)

" ... that He might make known the riches of His glory on the vessels of mercy, which He had afore prepared unto glory." (Romans 9:23)

"To whom God would make known what is the riches of the glory of this mystery among the Gentiles; which is Christ in you, the hope of glory!" (Colossians 1:27)

For Thine is the Kingdom, the power and glory, forever and ever, amen. By Him therefore let us offer the sacrifice of praise to God continually, that is, the fruit of our lips, giving thank to His Name - the precious Name of the Lord Jesus. (Hebrews 13:15)

Stand in the offering plate. 

Holding Fast The Faithful Word As he Hath Been Taught, That he May Be Able To By Sound Doctrine, Both To Exhort And To Convince The Gainsayers - Part 1936

Peter said to Simon, which before time in the same city used sorcery and bewitched the people of Samaria giving out that himself was some great one -- it was he that Peter told, "thy money perish with thee because thou hast thought that the gift of God may be purchased with money; thou hast neither lot in this matter; for thy heart is not right with God. Repent therefore of this thy wickedness and pray God, if perhaps the thought of thine heart may be forgiven thee." (Acts 8:20-22; Matthew 10:8; Acts 2:18, 36-41; Acts 10:45; Acts 11:17; Jeremiah 17:9; II Timothy 2:5)

To be clear, the Kingdom of God cannot be purchased with money. We cannot pay our way into heaven through our worldly riches. In fact, the Lord does not desire our earthly substance. Rather, the Lord wants our hearts to respond to Him, and similarly, for us as believers in Jesus by faith to stand in the offering plate, loving Him with all our heart, mind, soul, and strength, and then, from His abundant love to love one another -- so that none are without. (Acts 2:36-47)

We know this to be true from the very first commandment given in both the old and new.  Jesus confirmed the first commandment again when speaking to the scribe who asked Him, "What is the first commandment of all?" (Mark 12:28) Jesus said, "Hear O Israel the Lord thy God is one Lord. And thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all they heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind, and with all thy strength; this is the first commandment." (Deuteronomy 6:4-5; Mark 12:29-31; Deuteronomy 10:12; Deuteronomy 30:6)

When we truly understand what Jesus intends for His people, and we are directed by His wisdom and knowledge, our hearts begin to change. And, because of His love for His people, as His beloved, we become a flow thru for His good news gospel, loving one another so that none are without His gift of salvation. (Acts 2:1-47)

So that none are without the many gifts that the Lord gives severally as He will to those who trust and believe in Him. (I Corinthians 12:1-11) So that each and every one of us becomes able to hold fast the faithful Word as we have been taught, and that we may be able - by sound doctrine -- to exhort and convince the gainsayers.

And so too, that we can acknowledge the truth which is after godliness; in hope of eternal life which was promised before the world began, but hath in due times manifested His Word through preaching ... according to the commandment of God our Saviour. (Titus 1:2-3; I Timothy 3:16) For this, as the scripture saith, is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Saviour, who will have all men to be saved, and to come to the knowledge of the truth. (I Timothy 2:3-4; Romans 12:2; II Timothy 1:9; John 17:3)

Therefore, after the kindness and love of God our Saviour toward man appeared in our hearts, and being justified by His grace, according to His mercy He saved us, by the washing of regeneration and renewing of the Holy Ghost -- His love was manifest -- so that we should be heirs according to the hope of eternal life. (Titus 3:4-7)

This is why we are instructed, as servants of the Lord not to strive or quarrel but instead to be temperate and to "be gentle unto all [men], apt to teach, patient, in meekness instructing those that oppose themselves, if God peradventure will give them repentance to the acknowledging of the truth, and that they may recover themselves out of the snare of the devil, who are taken captive by him at his will." (II Timothy 2:24-26)

If I take this example further, think of the man who desires and/or aspires the office of a bishop. What does the scripture say? That first and foremost, this man desires a good work. But with an overseer role, there should also be a heart responsibility that comes with the role. in this context, apostle Paul is very clear on the criteria. First, a bishop must be blameless, and the husband of one wife, vigilant, sober, of good behaviour, given to hospitality, apt to teach, not given to wine, no striker, not greedy of filthy lucre; but patient, not a brawler, not covetous. One that rules well his own house, having his children in subjection with all gravity (for if a man know not how to rule his own house, how shall he take care of the church of God?)

Sober minded and able, and not violent or greedy for filthy lucre -- earthly manna. Someone whose testimony includes reverence and complete submission to the King of kings and Lord of lords, and as well, an inward desire to reach those unbelievers who live in opposition to the Word, so that these may know and come to their senses when they hear about the Lord Jesus.

As well, this man cannot be a novice, lest being lifted up with pride he fall into the condemnation of the devil. And he must be of good report of them which are without: lest he fall into reproach and the snare of the devil. (I Timothy 3:1-7)

To speak evil of no man, to be not brawlers or contentious but instead, gentle, shewing all meekness unto all men ... for we ourselves were sometimes foolish, disobedient, deceived, serving divers lusts and pleasures, living in malice and envy, hateful, and hating one another. (Titus 3:2-3)

As a husband, these are to dwell with their wives according to knowledge, giving honour unto the wife, as unto the weaker vessel, and as being heirs together of the grace of life; "that your prayers be not hindered." (I Peter 3:7; Ephesians 5:25; I Corinthians 12:23; Job 42:8)

Therefore, let us continue to aspire to become the man or woman our Lord God and Saviour Jesus the Christ encourages us to be. "For this is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Saviour, who will have all men to be saved, and to come to the knowledge of the truth. " (I Timothy 2:3-4; Romans 12:2; II Timothy 1:9; John 17:3)

Stand in the offering plate.

Who Hath Wrought And Done It, Calling The Generations From The Beginning? I The Lord, The First And With The Last; I Am He! - Part 1935

"Hearken unto Me, O Jacob and Israel, My called; I am He; I am the first, I also am the last." (Isaiah 48:12; Revelation 1:7-8)

To be clear, the Lord Jesus said, "I am He that is in the world and the world knew Me not. I am He -- the first and the last, the beginning and the ending. I am He -- the Alpha and Omega! I am He -- the King of kings and Lord of lords. And My Name is above every other name given to mankind from the beginning of time. In My Name there is salvation. There is hope, and there is abundant life.

What is that Name? As the angel of the Lord declared, His Name is JESUS for He shall save His people from their sins. (Matthew 1:21-23; Acts 4:12; Revelation 1:8; I Timothy 3:16; John 1:10-11; Genesis 1:1-2; Isaiah 9:6; Titus 3:4-7; Titus 2:13)

Emmanuel, being interpreted, God with us. (Matthew 1:23)

"To wit, that God was in Christ, reconciling the world unto Himself, not imputing their trespasses unto them; and hath committed unto us the Word of reconciliation." (II Corinthians 5:19)

As Jesus told His disciples, "he that believes on Me, believes not on Me but on Him that sent Me." (John 12:44-45)

And so it is written -- "The first man Adam was made a living soul; the last Adam was made a quickening spirit. Howbeit that was not first which is spiritual, but that which is natural; and afterward that which is spiritual. The first man is of the earth, earthy: the second man is the Lord from heaven. As is the earthy, such are they also that are earthy: and as is the heavenly, such are they also that are heavenly. And as we have borne the image of the earthy, we shall also bear the image of the heavenly." (I Corinthians 15:45-49)

As a Son clothed in sin-prone flesh (yet without sin) the promised/prophesied Christ was born of a virgin -- in whom the Father tabernacled (dwelled) to reconcile the world back unto Himself. As we read in the book of Acts, which outlines the apostle's understanding of Jesus, and His revealed identity after the cross, we learn that the Son was made of the seed of His father David according to flesh, and declared to be the Son of God with power by the Spirit of holiness. Note that the Spirit was given unto Him by no measure.

Peter (standing with the eleven) declared, "Ye men of Israel, hear these words; Jesus of Nazareth, a man approved of God among you by miracles and wonders and signs, which God did by Him in the midst of you, as ye yourselves also know: Him, being delivered by the determinate counsel and foreknowledge of God, ye have taken, and by wicked hands have crucified and slain: whom God hath raised up, having loosed the pains of death: because it was not possible that He should be holden of it.

For David speaketh concerning Him, "I foresaw the Lord always before my face, for He is on my right hand, that I should not be moved. Therefore, did my heart rejoice, and my tongue was glad; moreover also my flesh shall rest in hope: because Thou wilt not leave my soul in hell, neither wilt thou suffer Thine Holy One to see corruption. Thou hast made known to me the ways of life; Thou shalt make me full of joy with Thy countenance."

Men and brethren, let me freely speak unto you of the patriarch David, that he is both dead and buried, and his sepulchre is with us unto this day. Therefore, being a prophet, and knowing that God had sworn with an oath to him, that of the fruit of his loins, according to the flesh, He would raise up Christ to sit on His throne; he seeing this before spake of the resurrection of Christ, that His soul was not left in hell, neither His flesh did see corruption.

This Jesus hath God raised up, whereof we all are witnesses. Therefore, being by the right hand of God exalted, and having received of the Father the promise of the Holy Ghost, He hath shed forth this, which ye now see and hear. For David is not ascended into the heavens: but he saith himself, "The Lord said unto my Lord, Sit thou on my right hand, until I make Thy foes thy footstool." 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 2:23-36)

Jesus is the visible image of the invisible God. Indeed, the express image. We can achieve clarity on this point in the first chapter of Hebrews. But the bottom line is this. Jesus is the only true God and Father that we will ever see. Jesus told His disciples this when He said that if they had seen Him [Jesus] they have seen the Father. (John 14:6-12) Also, in John 10:30, Jesus said, "I and My Father are One!"

This explains why Jesus could say, "I am the Way, the Truth and the Life" and that no man comes to the Father "but by Me!" (John 14:6) Because our heart response must accept His plan of salvation -- the one that God Himself delivered to us on the cross, so that we might understand the extent of His love for His beloved creation. 

"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)

And as the apostles declared, after the resurrection, and Jesus was taken up wherein after He was taken up, He through the Holy Ghost gave commandments unto the apostles whom He had chosen. 

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

Not another, but the same God who loved us from the very beginning robed Himself in flesh so that we might find real life purposes in Him and through Him. After the love and kindness of God our Saviour toward man appeared. (Titus 3:4-7)

Apostle Paul offers a simple explanation when he writes in Ephesians"

"I therefore, the prisoner of the Lord, beseech you that ye walk worthy of the vocation wherewith ye are called, with all lowliness and meekness, with long suffering, forbearing one another in love; endeavouring to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace. There is One body, and One Spirit, even as ye are called in One hope of your calling;

One Lord, one faith, one baptism, One God and Father of all, who is above all, and through all, and in you all. But unto every one of us is given grace according to the measure of the gift of Christ. Wherefore He saith, "When He ascended up on high, He led captivity captive, and gave gifts unto men. (Now that He ascended, what is it but that He also descended first into the lower parts of the earth? He that descended is the same also that ascended up far above all heavens, that He might fill all things).

And He gave some, apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers; for the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ: till we all come in the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God, unto a perfect man, unto the measure of the stature of the fulness of Christ: that we henceforth be no more children, tossed to and fro, and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the sleight of men, and cunning craftiness, whereby they lie in wait to deceive; but speaking the truth in love, may grow up into Him in all things, which is the Head, even Christ: from whom the whole body fitly joined together and compacted by that which every joint supplies, according to the effectual working in the measure of every part, makes increase of the body unto the edifying of itself in love ..." (Ephesians 4:1-16; Proverbs 30:4-6)

"And I will pour upon the house of David, and upon the inhabitants of Jerusalem, the Spirit of grace and of supplications: and they shall look upon Me whom they have pierced, and they shall mourn for Him, as one mourneth for his only son, and shall be in bitterness for Him, as one that is in bitterness for his firstborn." (Zechariah 12:10) 

Every word of God is pure, and He is a shield unto them that put their trust in Him. Meditate upon these things. Stand in the offering plate. 

The Chief Priests And Scribes Asked Jesus, "By What Authority Doest Thou These Things?" - Part 1934

And it came to pass, that on one of those days, as Jesus taught the people in the temple, and preached the gospel, the chief priests and the scribes came upon Him with the elders, and spake unto Him, saying, "Tell us, by what authority doest thou these things? or who is He that gave Thee this authority?"

And Jesus answered and said unto them, "I will also ask you one thing; and answer Me: The baptism of John, was it from heaven, or of men?" And they reasoned with themselves, saying, "If we shall say, "From heaven," He will say, "Why then believed ye him not?" But and if we say, "of men" -- all the people will stone us: for they be persuaded that John was a prophet." And they answered, that they could not tell whence it was. And Jesus said unto them, "Neither tell I you by what authority I do these things."

This example in and of itself poses its own dilemma for those who do not seek the Lord Jesus with all their heart, soul, mind, and strength. (Mark 12:29-31; Deuteronomy 6:4) Rather than believe that Jesus is the Lord from heaven, these wanted to know the authority wherein Jesus did these things. Remember, Jesus healed the sick. Jesus healed the broken-hearted. Jesus restored those souls to abundant life who were wallowing in the miry clay. And Jesus helped those who no longer had the strength to help themselves. 

But Jesus did not stop there. The one point that becomes evident in this dialogue is that the chief priests along with the scribes and elders did not recognize Jesus for who He really was. With all their supposed knowledge of the Old Testament scriptures (by virtue of their men esteemed positions in the temple) these did not recognize that Jesus was the Lord's Christ. That Jesus was the promised Messiah, of which the prophets from afore had spoken. The second Adam, heavenly -- the Lord of glory. Most certainly, to them, Jesus did not represent the dayspring from on high which was at that time visiting His people.

Instead, these wanted to know the source of His authority wherein He did these mighty signs and wonders, and miracles. Because again, to be clear, these temple people did not want to believe that Jesus was the King of kings and Lord of lords, or that He -- Jesus -- could be the sole authority here on earth, as He is in heaven. This opinion, even when Jesus told the people the Kingdom of God is nigh. Or that, these should have known -- Lo, behold, the volume of the book is written of Me!

And just like these stood on the bank when John was baptizing the people unto repentance, these were not willing to surrender their hearts to the Lamb of God. We see this same mentality in the world today. Like many modern day churches, another mediator between God and man is established, rather than the One and Only Lord God and Saviour who gave Himself so that we might have abundant life in Him. The same God who loved us as His beloved from the very beginning, knowing still that His own would not receive Him when He walked this earth. "He was in the world and the world was made by Him and the world received Him not." (John 1:10-11)

So these (who should have known better) desired to find out who gave Jesus this authority. Still, not all was lost because there were those who (upon meeting Jesus) did drop all of their worldly longings to follow Jesus -- as both Lord and Christ. (Acts 2:36) And for them, there was no turning back.

Perhaps, this is why Jesus spoke to the people this parable:

"A certain man planted a vineyard, and let it forth to husbandmen, and went into a far country for a long time. And at the season he sent a servant to the husbandmen, that they should give him of the fruit of the vineyard: but the husbandmen beat him, and sent him away empty. And again he sent another servant: and they beat him also, and entreated him shamefully, and sent him away empty. And again he sent a third: and they wounded him also, and cast him out. 

Then said the lord of the vineyard, "What shall I do? I will send my beloved son: it may be they will reverence him when they see him." But when the husbandmen saw him, they reasoned among themselves, saying, "This is the heir: come, let us kill him, that the inheritance may be ours." So they cast him out of the vineyard, and killed him.

What therefore shall the lord of the vineyard do unto them? He shall come and destroy these husbandmen, and shall give the vineyard to others. And when they heard it, they said, "God forbid." And he beheld them, and said, "What is this then that is written, The stone which the builders rejected, the same is become the head of the corner? Whosoever shall fall upon that stone shall be broken; but on whomsoever it shall fall, it will grind him to powder."

And the chief priests and the scribes the same hour sought to lay hands on Him; and they feared the people: for they perceived that He had spoken this parable against them. And they watched Him, and sent forth spies, which should feign themselves just men, that they might take hold of His words, that so they might deliver Him unto the power and authority of the governor. 

And they asked Him, saying, "Master, we know that thou sayest and teachest rightly, neither acceptest thou the person of any, but teachest the way of God truly: is it lawful for us to give tribute unto Cæsar, or no?" But He perceived their craftiness, and said unto them, "Why tempt ye Me? Shew Me a penny, whose image and superscription hath it?" They answered and said, "Cæsar’s."

And Jesus said unto them, "Render therefore unto Cæsar the things which be Cæsar’s, and unto God the things which be God’s." And they could not take hold of his words before the people: and they marvelled at His answer, and held their peace." (Luke 20:1-26)

It is no wonder that later,  in the audience of all the people Jesus said unto His disciples, "Beware of the scribes, which desire to walk in long robes, and love greetings in the markets, and the highest seats in the synagogues, and the chief rooms at feasts; which devour widows’ houses, and for a shew make long prayers: the same shall receive greater damnation." (Luke 20:45-47)

Don't be misled by the wolves in sheep's clothing who still ask "by what authority did Jesus do these things?" Rather, search the scriptures for yourself and understand that indeed, as the scribes though, Jesus was speaking of Himself as the Lord from heaven. The Lord who still owns the vineyard that He Himself created in the very beginning. Yes, meditate upon these things. 

Stand in the offering plate.

Who Shall Declare His Generation? For The Transgression Of My People Was He Stricken - Part 1933

As a continuation of the last post, the Lord through Isaiah spoke His salvation plan into place. He asked the question -- who hath believed our report? And to whom is the arm of the Lord revealed? These are good questions, and worthy of understanding if we are have any knowledge of who Jesus really is. Herein, Isaiah 53:

"Who hath believed our report? and to whom is the arm of the Lord revealed? For He shall grow up before Him as a tender plant, and as a root out of a dry ground: He hath no form nor comeliness; and when we shall see Him, there is no beauty that we should desire Him. He is despised and rejected of men; a man of sorrows, and acquainted with grief: and we hid as it were our faces from Him; He was despised, and we esteemed Him not.

Surely He hath borne our griefs, and carried our sorrows: yet we did esteem Him stricken, smitten of God, and afflicted. But He was wounded for our transgressions, He was bruised for our iniquities:
the chastisement of our peace was upon Him; and with His stripes we are healed.

All we like sheep have gone astray; we have turned every one to His own way; and the Lord hath laid on Him the iniquity of us all. He was oppressed, and He was afflicted, yet He opened not His mouth: He is brought as a lamb to the slaughter, and as a sheep before her shearers is dumb, so He openeth not His mouth.

He was taken from prison and from judgment: and who shall declare His generation? for He was cut off out of the land of the living: for the transgression of my people was He stricken. And He made His grave with the wicked, and with the rich in His death; because He had done no violence, neither was any deceit in His mouth. Yet it pleased the Lord to bruise Him; He hath put Him to grief: when Thou shalt make His soul an offering for sin, He shall see His seed, He shall prolong His days, and the pleasure of the Lord shall prosper in His hand.

He shall see of the travail of His soul, and shall be satisfied: by His knowledge shall my righteous servant justify many; for He shall bear their iniquities. Therefore will I divide Him a portion with the great, and He shall divide the spoil with the strong; because He hath poured out His soul unto death: and He was numbered with the transgressors; and He bare the sin of many, and made intercession for the transgressors." (Isaiah 53:1-12)

Who Hath Believed Our Report? And To Whom Is The Arm Of The Lord Revealed? - Part 1932

"Wash you, make you clean; put away the evil of your doings from before Mine eyes; cease to do evil; learn to do well; seek judgment, relieve the oppressed, judge the fatherless, plead for the widow. Come now, and let us reason together, saith the Lord, though your sins be as scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they be red like crimson, they shall be as wool. If ye be willing and obedient, ye shall eat the good of the land ..." (Isaiah 1:16-19)

JESUS was wounded for our transgressions. JESUS was bruised for our iniquities. Upon JESUS was laid the chastisement of our peace and the stripes laid upon JESUS back was for our healing. Surely, Jesus did bear our grief and surely JESUS did bear our sorrows. Why? For the transgression of His people so that each and every one of us might be saved. That is the reason that He was smitten of God and afflicted -- so that we might find abundant life in Him.

For those who have tasted and seen also know that God is good! He is gracious and merciful, and on the cross, His humanity became the perfect sacrifice, having shed His holy blood for you and I. This was the mystery that was held in the bosom of the Father from the beginning of the world, the mystery wherein God was manifest in the flesh. (I Timothy 3:16) But there is more.

JESUS said to Mary, “Touch Me not for I have not as yet ascended." These words were not random words but stated for a reason. JESUS had been resurrected from the tomb on the first day of the week of Sabbaths, early in the morning while it was still dark. The holy Spirit that had indwelt JESUS endured all the pain and scourging -- all that had taken place to that flesh body. The blows, pains, and cruelty that had been described earlier -- being applied to the body of Jesus -- impacted upon the indwelling Spirit!

The pains, suffering and torment did not end when JESUS gave up His ghostly Spirit. Still, JESUS life as a natural flesh man died but the Spirit of Life lived on. At the same time, all that unjust punishment expended upon the body of JESUS was in reality received by the Spirit of JESUS which was and is now the Holy Ghost in this dispensation of grace.

Adam the first man was of the earth -- earthy -- whereas the second Adam was the Lord out of Heaven. The Lord of glory. So God, who had descended to redeem man from captivity was now to ascend. He that descended had no cruel markings but now since God’s descent, His spirit was wounded, and scarred.

Admittedly, the Holy Ghost being Spirit did not bleed but the body in which He had dwelt in whilst He walked among us bled, to the last drop of blood. This blood was the life giving blood that flowed in His body’s veins. The wounds and scars that were bestowed upon JESUS were wounds to His holy Spirit.

But JESUS, arising from the tomb, as a quickening Spirit was now returning from whence He had descended. Prior to His descent, as the scriptures declare He was in the form of God. It was to this form that He returned to be GOD OVER ALL!

The holy SPIRIT entering into that form takes in the HEART of God. It is in this context that we have a great High Priest who is able to succour us, regardless of whatever situation or plight we may be found. Yes, the same God who created us is touched with the feelings of our infirmities. For He was here on earth - dwelling in a body such as the body we inhabit - and died, leaving us His Last Will - His Testament written in His Own Precious Blood.

I am sure you will agree - there is no God like our God! Our God is Love beyond measure! Stand in the offering plate.