"Now therefore ye are no more strangers and foreigners, but fellow citizens with the saints, and of the household of God; and are built upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Jesus Christ Himself being the chief corner stone; in whom all the building fitly framed together groweth unto an holy temple in the Lord: in whom ye also are builded together for an habitation of God through the Spirit." (Ephesians 1:1-22)
The good news gospel of the Lord Jesus Christ requires that we desire His guidance and instruction in our hearts -- wherein we ask the Lord to give us this day our daily bread. Just like the physical, wherein we need food to sustain us, we similarly require the Word -- Jesus -- who has clearly stated that He is the Bread of Life. This same Jesus whom ye/we have crucified before coming to Him is the Light of the world, that lights a candle in our hearts that cannot be put out. Yes, Jesus who is the Word that was made flesh and dwelt among us.
"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)
But to those who receive Jesus as both Lord and Christ in their hearts, and worship Him in Spirit and in truth, so has He quickened, filling you with His Spirit -- the risen Jesus -- the Holy Ghost. The world thought they could kill Him and contain Him in a tomb. But as we know, Jesus is no longer on a cross nor in the tomb. The stone has been rolled away, and God our Saviour now looking to and fro for those hearts who desire Him. This is why we walk in love, as Christ also hath loved us and given Himself for us an offering and a sacrifice to God for a sweet-smelling save. (Ephesians 5:2)
Don't lose the real meaning of life, but know that when we are grounded in His love, and have been taught by Him, letting Him lead and guide us into all truth, and Him establishing our steps, we will find the Great I AM who is the Way, the Truth and the Life. Yes, the truth is in Jesus. And we know this because Jesus is the Alpha and Omega, the first and the last, the beginning and the ending, the King of kings and Lord of lords.
Trust in His abundant love today and ask our Lord God and Saviour to establish your steps. Stand in the offering plate.
All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness
Monday, September 10, 2018
If So Be That Ye Have Heard Him, And Have Been Taught By Him, As The Truth Is In Jesus - Part 2148
"... by whom also we have access by faith into this grace wherein we stand, and rejoice in hope of the glory of God." (Romans 5:2)
For many in the world, there is very little hope. Yet, as so many born again believers in Jesus (as both Lord and Christ) attest, those believers who are rooted and grounded in the Lord Jesus Christ and His teachings, there is a desire to obtain this same peace within. But too often, we miss the opportunities to witness to others so that they can understand and similarly make a decision to accept the risen Jesus the Christ in their hearts too.
The starting point?
To known that "the eyes of your understanding [are] being enlightened; that ye may know what is the hope of His calling, and what the riches of the glory of His inheritance in the saints ... " (Ephesians 1:18)
"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 ..." (Ephesians 2:12)
It is in this context that Paul's writings to the believing community has merit, particularly when he writes, "But ye have not so learned Christ; if so be that ye have heard Him, and have been taught by Him, as the truth is in Jesus." (Ephesians 4:20-21)
To known that "the eyes of your understanding [are] being enlightened; that ye may know what is the hope of His calling, and what the riches of the glory of His inheritance in the saints ... " (Ephesians 1:18)
"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 ..." (Ephesians 2:12)
That now in this current dispensation of grace, we can be assured that the same Spirit of the Lord God that moved upon the face of the waters in the beginning also willingly and with intention poured out His abundant love for His beloved creation on that cross. This is His free gift to one and all who desire more of God our Saviour.
And similarly, to know that "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. ... " (Ephesians 4:4-6)
Thus, when we repent, and are water baptized in the precious holy Name of the Lord Jesus Christ, we receive the gift of the Holy Ghost -- the Spirit of the risen Jesus (as both Lord and Christ) living within. (Acts 2:36-41)
When we begin here, our desire for the things of this world changes, and our focus more on the heavenly. This is why it is critical to find an "authentic" King James Bible (not the new KJV that has been revised so much it has become void of all truth -- sigh) and take pen and paper and begin studying the New Testament for therein, as the scripture saith, "Lo, behold the volume of the book is written of Me!"
Then will you know that "you hath He quickened, who were dead in trespasses and sins; wherein in time past ye walked according to the course of this world, according to the prince of the power of the air, the spirit that now works in the children of disobedience: among whom also we all had our conversation in times past in the lusts of our flesh, fulfilling the desires of the flesh and of the mind; and were by nature the children of wrath, even as others.
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 2:1-10)
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 2:1-10)
Stand in the offering plate.
Sunday, September 9, 2018
Hold thy Peace At The Presence Of The Lord God; For The Day Of The Lord Is At Hand - Part 2147
"Hold thy peace at the presence of the Lord God: for the day of the Lord is at hand: for the Lord hath prepared a sacrifice, He hath bid His guests." (Zephaniah 1:7)
Herein, the Word of the Lord "which came unto Zephaniah the son of Cushi, the son of Gedaliah, the son of Amariah, the son of Hizkiah, in the days of Josiah the son of Amon, king of Judah" is speaking forward to a time to come -- when there are those who have either turned back from the Lord, or have not sought the Lord, nor enquired for Him. (Zephaniah 1:6)
Herein, the Word of the Lord "which came unto Zephaniah the son of Cushi, the son of Gedaliah, the son of Amariah, the son of Hizkiah, in the days of Josiah the son of Amon, king of Judah" is speaking forward to a time to come -- when there are those who have either turned back from the Lord, or have not sought the Lord, nor enquired for Him. (Zephaniah 1:6)
The Word of the Lord also speaks of a time when God would become our Saviour -- shedding His precious holy blood on a cross so that we might experience the fullness of His love dwelling within. (Acts 20:28) Unbeknownst to the Israelites at the time (those that had turned their back from the Lord) or the Gentiles (who had not sought the Lord, nor enquired for Him), the coming of the Saviour was to become the all-time turning point of history.
"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)
"... through the tender mercy of our God; whereby the dayspring from on high hath visited us," (Luke 1:78)
"(For He saith, "I have heard thee in a time accepted, and in the day of salvation have I succoured thee: behold, now is the accepted time; behold, now is the day of salvation.)" (II Corinthians 6:2)
"I will also stretch out mine hand upon Judah, and upon all the inhabitants of Jerusalem; and I will cut off the remnant of Baal from this place, and the name of the Chemarims with the priests; and them that worship the host of heaven upon the housetops; and them that worship and that swear by the Lord, and that swear by Malcham; and them that are turned back from the Lord; and those that have not sought the Lord, nor enquired for Him.
"Hold thy peace at the presence of the Lord God: for the day of the Lord [is] at hand: for the Lord hath prepared a sacrifice, He hath bid His guests. And it shall come to pass in the day of the Lord’s sacrifice, that I will punish the princes, and the king’s children, and all such as are clothed with strange apparel. In the same day also will I punish all those that leap on the threshold, which fill their masters’ houses with violence and deceit. And it shall come to pass in that day," saith the Lord, "that there shall be the noise of a cry from the fish gate, and an howling from the second, and a great crashing from the hills."
What is also interesting about this prophecy is the explanation of the stark comparison between those that worship the host of heaven upon the housetops, and those who prefer to worship Baal. As the Lord saith, "The priests said not, "Where is the Lord?" and they that handle the Law knew Me not: the pastors also transgressed against Me, and the prophets prophesied by Baal, and walked after things that do not profit." (Jeremiah 2:8) And again, "Will ye steal, murder, and commit adultery, and swear falsely, and burn incense unto Baal, and walk after other gods whom ye know not ..." (Jeremiah 7:9)
But the good news was the soon coming Lamb of God -- the Great Shepherd -- who would willingly lay down His life for His sheep. After the kindness and love of God our Saviour toward man appeared. (Titus 3:4-7)
Note that this scriptural passage also warned that the great day of the Lord is near, and hasteth greatly -- even the "voice" of the day of the Lord. In the New Testament, we see this when God declared peace and good will toward all. (Luke 2:14) But John also described this time as the Word that was with God and was God being made flesh and dwelling among us so that we would behold His glory. (John 1:11-18; I Timothy 3:16)
"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 ..." (Luke 1:68-70)
You see, from the beginning of creation, the Lord has been bidding His beloved creation (you and I) to the greatest wedding feast ever. And in this dispensation of grace, He became the greatest love story ever told, so that none would be lost. None of us would be misled by those who teach contrary to the scriptures because nothing would be hid from those who love our Lord God and Saviour Jesus the Christ with all our heart, soul, mind, and strength. (Deuteronomy 6:4; Mark 12:29-31)
Indeed, as Jesus said, He must go but He would not leave us comfortless -- He would come unto us. And thus, when Jesus was taken up, He [Jesus] through the Holy Ghost gave commandments unto the apostles whom He had chosen. (Acts 1:2-3; John 14:26; John 15:26) This is why there is only ONE on the throne -- and in this current dispensation of grace His Name is JESUS, for He shall save His people from their sins ... Emmanuel, being interpreted, God with us. (Matthew 1:21-23) The Great I AM from afore decided that we were worth the ultimate price -- the shedding of blood on an old rugged cross, so that He could have a family.
But the time to turn to Jesus as both our Lord and Christ is short. The invitation period is quickly coming to a close wherein His invited guests are bid to come to His feast. Thus, as the scripture saith, "Today is the day of salvation!"
But I digress. Continuing again from the first chapter of Zephaniah:
"The great day of the Lord is near, it is near, and hasteth greatly, even the voice of the day of the Lord: the mighty man shall cry there bitterly. I will utterly consume all things from off the land," saith the Lord, "I will consume man and beast; I will consume the fowls of the heaven, and the fishes of the sea, and the stumbling blocks with the wicked; and I will cut off man from off the land," saith the Lord.
Howl, ye inhabitants of Maktesh, for all the merchant people are cut down; all they that bear silver are cut off. And it shall come to pass at that time, that I will search Jerusalem with candles, and punish the men that are settled on their lees: that say in their heart, "The Lord will not do good, neither will He do evil." Therefore their goods shall become a booty, and their houses a desolation: they shall also build houses, but not inhabit them; and they shall plant vineyards, but not drink the wine thereof.
Indeed, the great day of the Lord is near, it is near, and hastes greatly, even the voice of the day of the Lord: the mighty man shall cry there bitterly. That day is a day of wrath, a day of trouble and distress, a day of wasteness and desolation, a day of darkness and gloominess, a day of clouds and thick darkness, a day of the trumpet and alarm against the fenced cities, and against the high towers. And I will bring distress upon men, that they shall walk like blind men, because they have sinned against the Lord: and their blood shall be poured out as dust, and their flesh as the dung. Neither their silver nor their gold shall be able to deliver them in the day of the Lord’s wrath; but the whole land shall be devoured by the fire of His jealousy: for He shall make even a speedy riddance of all them that dwell in the land." (Zephaniah 1:1-18)
But the good news is that the Lord God hears the cries of His beloved people as we go into the hedges seeking those who still have a heart for our Saviour. Stand in the offering plate.
For The Invisible Things Of Him From The Creation Of The World Are Clearly Seen, Being Understood By The Things That Are Made - Part 2146
"And at that time shall Michael stand up, the great prince which stands for the children of Thy people: and there shall be a time of trouble, such as never was since there was a nation even to that same time: and at that time Thy people shall be delivered, every one that shall be found written in the book. And many of them that sleep in the dust of the earth shall awake, some to everlasting life, and some to shame and everlasting contempt. And they that be wise shall shine as the brightness of the firmament; and they that turn many to righteousness as the stars for ever and ever. But thou, O Daniel, shut up the words, and seal the book, even to the time of the end: many shall run to and fro, and knowledge shall be increased." (Daniel 12:1-4)
In the last post, I briefly touched on the end times, and how the Lord's people are perishing for lack of His knowledge, because we have not turned to Him for His ongoing wisdom and counsel. (Hosea 4:6) Again, give us this day our daily bread. Further, as apostle Paul said, it is to our shame that that the Light of the world -- this same Jesus whom ye have crucified and now is both Lord and Christ -- is not being preached throughout the land. Instead, as we are witnessing, many who believe are becoming increasingly comfortable in the pew, compromising the Word of God for sermons that tickle their ears, while enjoying the blessings of the Lord Jesus, without giving Him all the honour and glory and praise. It is this void in the land -- the lack of the Word of God being preached -- that will ultimately bring on a darkness and time of trouble, as we have never witnessed before.
Concerning these emerging times -- from II Peter 2:2. Let those with ears to hear, hear, and eyes to see, see.
"But there [will be] false prophets also among the people, even as there shall be false teachers among you, who privily shall bring in damnable heresies, even denying the Lord that bought them, and bring upon themselves swift destruction. And many shall follow their pernicious ways; by reason of whom the Way of truth shall be evil spoken of." (II Peter 2:1-2)
Who is the Way of truth? Jesus -- for He shall save His people from their sins ... Emmanuel, being interpreted, God with us. (Matthew 1:21-23) After the kindness and love of God our Saviour toward man appeared. (Titus 3:4-7)
Continuing -- "And through covetousness shall they with feigned words make merchandise of you: whose judgment now of a long time lingereth not, and their damnation slumbers not. " (II Peter 2:3)
Another point here -- if those who want to make merchandise of you never slumber, why do we who believe, and have obtained everlasting life through the mercy and grace of God our Saviour? Something to consider.
Again, continuing in II Peter 2: "For if God spared not the angels that sinned, but cast them down to hell, and delivered them into chains of darkness, to be reserved unto judgment; and spared not the old world, but saved Noah the eighth person, a preacher of righteousness, bringing in the flood upon the world of the ungodly; and turning the cities of Sodom and Gomorha into ashes condemned them with an overthrow, making them an ensample unto those that after should live ungodly; and delivered just Lot, vexed with the filthy conversation of the wicked: (for that righteous man dwelling among them, in seeing and hearing, vexed his righteous soul from day to day with their unlawful deeds;) the Lord knows how to deliver the g/Godly out of temptations, and to reserve the unjust unto the day of judgment to be punished: but chiefly them that walk after the flesh in the lust of uncleanness, and despise government. Presumptuous are they, self-willed, they are not afraid to speak evil of dignities." (II Peter 2:4-10)
Herein, we read that Lot's righteous soul was vexed from day to day with their unlawful deeds. (Old Testament side who had not received the promise as have we -- Hebrews 11) Yes, the Lord saved Lot and his family, and delivered them form the judgment that was to come. My question is -- where is the passion for those who believe to rescue the perishing and pull them from the fire -- as apostle Paul writes.
Note that the government referenced here -- the government that those who walk after the flesh in the lust of uncleanness -- is not the government(s) of this world that these are despising but the leadership and guidance of our Lord God and Saviour. A similar understanding is portrayed in Romans 1 -- wherein the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men, against those who hold the truth in unrighteousness -- and thus, openly despise His eternal power and Godhead, and are therefore, without excuse. (Romans 1:18-20)
"For the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men, who hold the truth in unrighteousness; because that which may be known of God is manifest in them; for God hath shewed [it] unto them. For the invisible things of Him from the creation of the world are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made, [even] His eternal power and Godhead; so that they are without excuse: because that, when they knew God, they glorified [Him] not as God, neither were thankful; but became vain in their imaginations, and their foolish heart was darkened. Professing themselves to be wise, they became fools, and changed the glory of the uncorruptible God into an image made like to corruptible man, and to birds, and four-footed beasts, and creeping things.
Wherefore God also gave them up to uncleanness through the lusts of their own hearts, to dishonour their own bodies between themselves: who changed the truth of God into a lie, and worshipped and served the creature more than the Creator, who is blessed for ever. Amen.
For this cause God gave them up unto vile affections: for even their women did change the natural use into that which is against nature: and likewise also the men, leaving the natural use of the woman, burned in their lust one toward another; men with men working that which is unseemly, and receiving in themselves that recompense of their error which was meet. And even as they did not like to retain God in [their] knowledge, God gave them over to a reprobate mind, to do those things which are not convenient; being filled with all unrighteousness, fornication, wickedness, covetousness, maliciousness; full of envy, murder, debate, deceit, malignity; whisperers, backbiters, haters of God, despiteful, proud, boasters, inventors of evil things, disobedient to parents, without understanding, covenant breakers, without natural affection, implacable, unmerciful: who knowing the judgment of God, that they which commit such things are worthy of death, not only do the same, but have pleasure in them that do them." (Romans 1:18-32)
Returning to II Peter 2:2: "Whereas angels, which are greater in power and might, bring not railing accusation against them before the Lord. But these, as natural brute beasts, made to be taken and destroyed, speak evil of the things that they understand not; and shall utterly perish in their own corruption; and shall receive the reward of unrighteousness, as they that count it pleasure to riot in the day time. Spots they are and blemishes, sporting themselves with their own deceivings while they feast with you; having eyes full of adultery, and that cannot cease from sin; beguiling unstable souls: an heart they have exercised with covetous practises; cursed children: which have forsaken the right way, and are gone astray, following the way of Balaam the son of Bosor, who loved the wages of unrighteousness; but was rebuked for his iniquity: the dumb ass speaking with man’s voice forbade the madness of the prophet." (II Peter 2:11-16)
"These are wells without water, clouds that are carried with a tempest; to whom the mist of darkness is reserved for ever. For when they speak great swelling words of vanity, they allure through the lusts of the flesh, through much wantonness, those that were clean escaped from them who live in error. While they promise them liberty, they themselves are the servants of corruption: for of whom a man is overcome, of the same is he brought in bondage. For if after they have escaped the pollutions of the world through the knowledge of the Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ, they are again entangled therein, and overcome, the latter end is worse with them than the beginning. For it had been better for them not to have known the Way of righteousness, than, after they have known it, to turn from the holy commandment delivered unto them. But it is happened unto them according to the true proverb -- "The dog is turned to his own vomit again; and the sow that was washed to her wallowing in the mire." (II Peter 2:1-22)
To conclude, let me say that those who believe in the Lord Jesus by faith, and are willingly water baptized in His precious, holy Name are the children of promise. In so being, we should be as diligent and persistent in preaching the good news of our Lord God and Saviour Jesus the Christ in everything we do -- for it is in Him that we have everlasting life. It is for this reason that I am encouraging one and all to get into the Word and to trust faithfully in His goodness and grace -- for your day to day.
Why? For Jesus still is the King of kings and Lord of lords, Alpha and Omega, the first and the last, the beginning and the ending. He is still on His throne, and He knows beyond measure those whose hearts and desires are found in Him. We need to become the wells filled with His living water wherein we will never thirst again. Likewise, it is time to return to our first love, wherein our hearts desired to know our Bridegroom even more. Because of His abundant love for His people, He has ensured that we have and are escaping the pollutions of the world through the knowledge of the Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ.
Don't let the cares of this world drag you away from the Way of righteousness. His Name is JESUS for He shall save His people from their sins. Stand in the offering plate.
In the last post, I briefly touched on the end times, and how the Lord's people are perishing for lack of His knowledge, because we have not turned to Him for His ongoing wisdom and counsel. (Hosea 4:6) Again, give us this day our daily bread. Further, as apostle Paul said, it is to our shame that that the Light of the world -- this same Jesus whom ye have crucified and now is both Lord and Christ -- is not being preached throughout the land. Instead, as we are witnessing, many who believe are becoming increasingly comfortable in the pew, compromising the Word of God for sermons that tickle their ears, while enjoying the blessings of the Lord Jesus, without giving Him all the honour and glory and praise. It is this void in the land -- the lack of the Word of God being preached -- that will ultimately bring on a darkness and time of trouble, as we have never witnessed before.
Concerning these emerging times -- from II Peter 2:2. Let those with ears to hear, hear, and eyes to see, see.
"But there [will be] false prophets also among the people, even as there shall be false teachers among you, who privily shall bring in damnable heresies, even denying the Lord that bought them, and bring upon themselves swift destruction. And many shall follow their pernicious ways; by reason of whom the Way of truth shall be evil spoken of." (II Peter 2:1-2)
Who is the Way of truth? Jesus -- for He shall save His people from their sins ... Emmanuel, being interpreted, God with us. (Matthew 1:21-23) After the kindness and love of God our Saviour toward man appeared. (Titus 3:4-7)
Continuing -- "And through covetousness shall they with feigned words make merchandise of you: whose judgment now of a long time lingereth not, and their damnation slumbers not. " (II Peter 2:3)
Another point here -- if those who want to make merchandise of you never slumber, why do we who believe, and have obtained everlasting life through the mercy and grace of God our Saviour? Something to consider.
Again, continuing in II Peter 2: "For if God spared not the angels that sinned, but cast them down to hell, and delivered them into chains of darkness, to be reserved unto judgment; and spared not the old world, but saved Noah the eighth person, a preacher of righteousness, bringing in the flood upon the world of the ungodly; and turning the cities of Sodom and Gomorha into ashes condemned them with an overthrow, making them an ensample unto those that after should live ungodly; and delivered just Lot, vexed with the filthy conversation of the wicked: (for that righteous man dwelling among them, in seeing and hearing, vexed his righteous soul from day to day with their unlawful deeds;) the Lord knows how to deliver the g/Godly out of temptations, and to reserve the unjust unto the day of judgment to be punished: but chiefly them that walk after the flesh in the lust of uncleanness, and despise government. Presumptuous are they, self-willed, they are not afraid to speak evil of dignities." (II Peter 2:4-10)
Herein, we read that Lot's righteous soul was vexed from day to day with their unlawful deeds. (Old Testament side who had not received the promise as have we -- Hebrews 11) Yes, the Lord saved Lot and his family, and delivered them form the judgment that was to come. My question is -- where is the passion for those who believe to rescue the perishing and pull them from the fire -- as apostle Paul writes.
Note that the government referenced here -- the government that those who walk after the flesh in the lust of uncleanness -- is not the government(s) of this world that these are despising but the leadership and guidance of our Lord God and Saviour. A similar understanding is portrayed in Romans 1 -- wherein the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men, against those who hold the truth in unrighteousness -- and thus, openly despise His eternal power and Godhead, and are therefore, without excuse. (Romans 1:18-20)
"For the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men, who hold the truth in unrighteousness; because that which may be known of God is manifest in them; for God hath shewed [it] unto them. For the invisible things of Him from the creation of the world are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made, [even] His eternal power and Godhead; so that they are without excuse: because that, when they knew God, they glorified [Him] not as God, neither were thankful; but became vain in their imaginations, and their foolish heart was darkened. Professing themselves to be wise, they became fools, and changed the glory of the uncorruptible God into an image made like to corruptible man, and to birds, and four-footed beasts, and creeping things.
Wherefore God also gave them up to uncleanness through the lusts of their own hearts, to dishonour their own bodies between themselves: who changed the truth of God into a lie, and worshipped and served the creature more than the Creator, who is blessed for ever. Amen.
For this cause God gave them up unto vile affections: for even their women did change the natural use into that which is against nature: and likewise also the men, leaving the natural use of the woman, burned in their lust one toward another; men with men working that which is unseemly, and receiving in themselves that recompense of their error which was meet. And even as they did not like to retain God in [their] knowledge, God gave them over to a reprobate mind, to do those things which are not convenient; being filled with all unrighteousness, fornication, wickedness, covetousness, maliciousness; full of envy, murder, debate, deceit, malignity; whisperers, backbiters, haters of God, despiteful, proud, boasters, inventors of evil things, disobedient to parents, without understanding, covenant breakers, without natural affection, implacable, unmerciful: who knowing the judgment of God, that they which commit such things are worthy of death, not only do the same, but have pleasure in them that do them." (Romans 1:18-32)
Returning to II Peter 2:2: "Whereas angels, which are greater in power and might, bring not railing accusation against them before the Lord. But these, as natural brute beasts, made to be taken and destroyed, speak evil of the things that they understand not; and shall utterly perish in their own corruption; and shall receive the reward of unrighteousness, as they that count it pleasure to riot in the day time. Spots they are and blemishes, sporting themselves with their own deceivings while they feast with you; having eyes full of adultery, and that cannot cease from sin; beguiling unstable souls: an heart they have exercised with covetous practises; cursed children: which have forsaken the right way, and are gone astray, following the way of Balaam the son of Bosor, who loved the wages of unrighteousness; but was rebuked for his iniquity: the dumb ass speaking with man’s voice forbade the madness of the prophet." (II Peter 2:11-16)
"These are wells without water, clouds that are carried with a tempest; to whom the mist of darkness is reserved for ever. For when they speak great swelling words of vanity, they allure through the lusts of the flesh, through much wantonness, those that were clean escaped from them who live in error. While they promise them liberty, they themselves are the servants of corruption: for of whom a man is overcome, of the same is he brought in bondage. For if after they have escaped the pollutions of the world through the knowledge of the Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ, they are again entangled therein, and overcome, the latter end is worse with them than the beginning. For it had been better for them not to have known the Way of righteousness, than, after they have known it, to turn from the holy commandment delivered unto them. But it is happened unto them according to the true proverb -- "The dog is turned to his own vomit again; and the sow that was washed to her wallowing in the mire." (II Peter 2:1-22)
To conclude, let me say that those who believe in the Lord Jesus by faith, and are willingly water baptized in His precious, holy Name are the children of promise. In so being, we should be as diligent and persistent in preaching the good news of our Lord God and Saviour Jesus the Christ in everything we do -- for it is in Him that we have everlasting life. It is for this reason that I am encouraging one and all to get into the Word and to trust faithfully in His goodness and grace -- for your day to day.
Why? For Jesus still is the King of kings and Lord of lords, Alpha and Omega, the first and the last, the beginning and the ending. He is still on His throne, and He knows beyond measure those whose hearts and desires are found in Him. We need to become the wells filled with His living water wherein we will never thirst again. Likewise, it is time to return to our first love, wherein our hearts desired to know our Bridegroom even more. Because of His abundant love for His people, He has ensured that we have and are escaping the pollutions of the world through the knowledge of the Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ.
Don't let the cares of this world drag you away from the Way of righteousness. His Name is JESUS for He shall save His people from their sins. Stand in the offering plate.
And They That Be Wise Shall Shine As The Brightness Of The Firmament - Part 2145
Then said I -- Daniel a prophet, "O my Lord, what shall be the end of these things?" This is a good question, given the times and seasons in which we live, wherein, as we see all around us, creation itself is groaning under the weight of a world gone astray. It is in this context that we need to understand what the Lord hath said concerning these end times. As the Lord declared, He will not hide anything from those who trust in Him and seek His wisdom and knowledge in the day to day.
Give us this day our daily bread!
Sadly, however, the modern day religious culture is slowly climatizing our faith journey into a place of comfort and compromise -- as pew warmers -- wherein searching the scriptures daily for the Bread of Life is no longer our focus. In this context, it is no wonder the Lord said through His prophet Hosea, "My people are destroyed for lack of knowledge ..." (Hosea 4:6) Because we have moved away from knowing that the fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom and the knowledge of the holy is understanding, there will come a time when He will no longer hear us. (Psalms 1:7; Psalms 111:10; Proverbs 9:10; Micah 3:4)
But it does not have to be this way. It is herein that we need to turn our hearts and minds to the Lord Jesus the Christ, and remember the laws and purpose that He has written in our hearts, even whilst we were still in our mother's womb. As Jesus said, "I AM the Way, the Truth, and the Life! No man cometh unto the Father but by Me." (John 14:6) As believers, we need to take seriously the Word that was made flesh and dwelt among us and that He -- as the Good Shepherd -- willingly laid down His life for His sheep, and share His goodness and mercy to one and all.
"After the kindness and love of God our Saviour toward man appeared ..." (Titus 3:4-7)
We know the times of trouble are coming and also that the Lord has a plan to deliver His people -- every one whose names are written in the book of life. And similarly, they that be wise shall shine as the brightness of the firmament; those who turn many to righteousness as stars forever and ever. (Daniel 12:1-4) This is our calling. This is the reason we are alive today. It is also the very reason that we who believe should be seeking the knowledge and wisdom of the Lord Jesus -- because at the end of the day, the only decision that will matter is how we responded in our hearts to Jesus.
Is Jesus your Lord God and Saviour? Have you repented and been water baptized in the precious, holy Name of the Lord Jesus Christ, having received His gift of the Holy Ghost? (Acts 2:36-41: Acts 10:44-48) Are you seeking the Lord's wisdom and counsel for your day to day? Remember, Jesus said He would never leave us nor forsake us, but rather, lead and guide us into all truth. Thus, as the world runs to and fro in seeking knowledge, let us be found in worship, with a song to the Lord in our hearts, giving all the glory and honour and praise to our Lord.
Indeed, "grace and peace be multiplied unto you through the knowledge of God, and of Jesus our Lord, according as His divine power hath given unto us all things that pertain unto life and godliness, through the knowledge of Him that hath called us to glory and virtue ... and beside this, giving all diligence, add to your faith virtue; and to virtue knowledge ... and to knowledge temperance; and to temperance patience; and to patience godliness ... for if these things be in you, and abound, they make you that ye shall neither be barren nor unfruitful in the knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ." (II Peter 1:3-8)
Stand in the offering plate.
Saturday, September 8, 2018
Be Diligent That Ye May Be Found Of Him In Peace, Without Spot, And Blameless, And Account That The Longsuffering Of Our Lord Is Salvation - Part 2144
Jesus said, "If you had known Me, then you should have known my Father also." Jesus also said, "If you have seen Me you have seen my Father also." (John 14:6-12) As well, Jesus said, "I and My Father are One!" (John 10:30)
In the beginning, God. The Spirit of the Lord God moving upon the water. It is herein that life in this world began, when God created man. Note that He created man as an early image of Himself -- in visible created form. Further, when God created man, God had a purpose. Today, we see God's purpose unfolding gradually in accord with His proposed purpose, that was decided before the foundations of the world were formed. That is, the greatest love story ever told when the same God who created the world came into the world to redeem His beloved.
As John wrote, "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) The Word made flesh and dwelt among us so that we could behold His glory. But I am getting ahead of myself.
In the beginning, God created man from the earth. And subsequently, He created you and I, placing His purpose in our hearts whilst we were still in our mother's womb. Therefore, we are the works of His hands. His beloved creation. However, man (and woman) totally messed up in the Garden. Like our ancestors, we inherited sin. Our reward for disobedience to God is that sin abounds. Like pigs (if we can use the New Testament example) roll around in dirt -- the miry clay. We get all spruced up and then roll in the slime pit of sin.
But this was never God's intent for our lives. So God comes to our rescue. Why? Because God has a plan built on His love and mercy for His people. And even though - often - the plan may seem obscure to us, it does not take away from God's ultimate plan for our life. But His love for us immeasurable because knowing even our most innermost heart desires, He still loved us to bring forth a plan of salvation wherein we can be redeemed.
Still, it is similarly important to note that while we dwell in the constructs of time, God is eternal. The question asked by the prophets -- "What is man that God is so mindful?" Why is Almighty God so interested and involved with us? What have we ever done to deserve all the pleasures we have known? Again, why does God care for man? This has all got to be wrapped up in one word -- LOVE. God's abundant love for you and I!
"After the kindness and love of God our Saviour toward man appeared ..." (Titus 3:4-7; I Timothy 3:16; Isaiah 9:6; Matthew 1:21-23; Revelation 1:8)
For God so loved!
This endless love of God made a way to redeem mankind on an old rugged cross. He willingly made a plan of salvation whereby we could respond to God's love. Wherein He bridged the gap that would have our souls lost forever through the blood He shed on the cross. (Acts 20:28) The good news is that for believers, God is the King of kings and Lord of lords. God is the Prince of Peace. Instead of being intent on paying money for that which is not meat, we should be getting to know Him for He has all the answers.
"The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom: and the knowledge of the holy is understanding." (Proverbs 9:10)
This is why when you look for God with all your heart, soul, mind and strength, then you will find that God our Father was in the man Jesus the Christ. To wit, God was in Christ reconciling the world unto Himself. (II Corinthians 5:19) Do not look for another. Your search ends when you come to JESUS, who is the Only Answer for the world today!
As Jesus said, "I AM the Way, the Truth, and the Life. No man comes unto the Father but by Me!" (John 14:6)
Stand in the offering plate.
In the beginning, God. The Spirit of the Lord God moving upon the water. It is herein that life in this world began, when God created man. Note that He created man as an early image of Himself -- in visible created form. Further, when God created man, God had a purpose. Today, we see God's purpose unfolding gradually in accord with His proposed purpose, that was decided before the foundations of the world were formed. That is, the greatest love story ever told when the same God who created the world came into the world to redeem His beloved.
As John wrote, "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) The Word made flesh and dwelt among us so that we could behold His glory. But I am getting ahead of myself.
In the beginning, God created man from the earth. And subsequently, He created you and I, placing His purpose in our hearts whilst we were still in our mother's womb. Therefore, we are the works of His hands. His beloved creation. However, man (and woman) totally messed up in the Garden. Like our ancestors, we inherited sin. Our reward for disobedience to God is that sin abounds. Like pigs (if we can use the New Testament example) roll around in dirt -- the miry clay. We get all spruced up and then roll in the slime pit of sin.
But this was never God's intent for our lives. So God comes to our rescue. Why? Because God has a plan built on His love and mercy for His people. And even though - often - the plan may seem obscure to us, it does not take away from God's ultimate plan for our life. But His love for us immeasurable because knowing even our most innermost heart desires, He still loved us to bring forth a plan of salvation wherein we can be redeemed.
Still, it is similarly important to note that while we dwell in the constructs of time, God is eternal. The question asked by the prophets -- "What is man that God is so mindful?" Why is Almighty God so interested and involved with us? What have we ever done to deserve all the pleasures we have known? Again, why does God care for man? This has all got to be wrapped up in one word -- LOVE. God's abundant love for you and I!
"After the kindness and love of God our Saviour toward man appeared ..." (Titus 3:4-7; I Timothy 3:16; Isaiah 9:6; Matthew 1:21-23; Revelation 1:8)
For God so loved!
This endless love of God made a way to redeem mankind on an old rugged cross. He willingly made a plan of salvation whereby we could respond to God's love. Wherein He bridged the gap that would have our souls lost forever through the blood He shed on the cross. (Acts 20:28) The good news is that for believers, God is the King of kings and Lord of lords. God is the Prince of Peace. Instead of being intent on paying money for that which is not meat, we should be getting to know Him for He has all the answers.
"The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom: and the knowledge of the holy is understanding." (Proverbs 9:10)
This is why when you look for God with all your heart, soul, mind and strength, then you will find that God our Father was in the man Jesus the Christ. To wit, God was in Christ reconciling the world unto Himself. (II Corinthians 5:19) Do not look for another. Your search ends when you come to JESUS, who is the Only Answer for the world today!
As Jesus said, "I AM the Way, the Truth, and the Life. No man comes unto the Father but by Me!" (John 14:6)
Stand in the offering plate.
That Ye Would Walk Worthy Of God, who Hath Called You Unto His Kingdom And Glory - Part 2143
"If ye continue in the faith grounded and settled, and [be not] moved away from the hope of the gospel, which ye have heard, and which was preached to every creature which is under heaven; whereof I Paul am made a minister ..." (Colossians 1:23)
"Therefore, my beloved brethren, be ye steadfast, unmoveable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, forasmuch as ye know that your labour is not in vain in the Lord." (I Corinthians 15:58)
The first commandment -- "Hear O Israel the Lord thy God is One Lord!" (Deuteronomy 6:4; Mark 12:29-31)
Our God does not desire worship that is unwilling -- or worship that does not come from our innermost being. At the same time, God is not interested in an outward religious show of worship that follows some man-made tradition or ritualistic agenda. What He does desire is for us to love Him with all our hearts, souls, minds, and strength, and to know that He is indeed the Bread of life. The Light of this world.
Thus, our desire should always be to worship Him as the Head of His redeemed believing body. Jesus -- the Head of the body of Christ church. The chief corner[stone]. The foundation wherein we cannot be moved. The Rock -- the very same Rock which followed the Israelites through the Red Sea. This is why -- because of His Word, and His Spirit -- the Holy Ghost that leads and guides us into all truth, we no longer should desire to eat the spirit bread of processed religious meat -- a product of religious traditional semblance of real food, of which when eaten gives only full feeling. Rather, true believers who worship Jesus in Spirit and in truth similarly desire Jesus' Word as meat, understanding that it is this meat (the scriptures -- the Word that proceeds from the mouth of God) that we should be endeavouring to understand.
In His model prayer, Jesus said, "Give us this day our daily Bread!"
Jesus did not mean to substitute His Word with form religion and the traditions of men, as we see in so many corners of the world today. As Jesus declared, even then, "In vain they do worship Me, teaching for doctrines the commandments of men." (Matthew 15:9; Mark 7:7) But it does not have to be this way. When the tempter comes our way, with the intent of deceiving our hearts and minds, we need to be able to cite scripture in the same manner Jesus did, declaring to the tempter, "It is written." Thus, for you and I as believers to be strengthened, the teachings of the risen Jesus (as both Lord and Christ) should be our first thought of the day. (Acts 2:36-41)
Our God does not desire worship that is unwilling -- or worship that does not come from our innermost being. At the same time, God is not interested in an outward religious show of worship that follows some man-made tradition or ritualistic agenda. What He does desire is for us to love Him with all our hearts, souls, minds, and strength, and to know that He is indeed the Bread of life. The Light of this world.
Thus, our desire should always be to worship Him as the Head of His redeemed believing body. Jesus -- the Head of the body of Christ church. The chief corner[stone]. The foundation wherein we cannot be moved. The Rock -- the very same Rock which followed the Israelites through the Red Sea. This is why -- because of His Word, and His Spirit -- the Holy Ghost that leads and guides us into all truth, we no longer should desire to eat the spirit bread of processed religious meat -- a product of religious traditional semblance of real food, of which when eaten gives only full feeling. Rather, true believers who worship Jesus in Spirit and in truth similarly desire Jesus' Word as meat, understanding that it is this meat (the scriptures -- the Word that proceeds from the mouth of God) that we should be endeavouring to understand.
In His model prayer, Jesus said, "Give us this day our daily Bread!"
Jesus did not mean to substitute His Word with form religion and the traditions of men, as we see in so many corners of the world today. As Jesus declared, even then, "In vain they do worship Me, teaching for doctrines the commandments of men." (Matthew 15:9; Mark 7:7) But it does not have to be this way. When the tempter comes our way, with the intent of deceiving our hearts and minds, we need to be able to cite scripture in the same manner Jesus did, declaring to the tempter, "It is written." Thus, for you and I as believers to be strengthened, the teachings of the risen Jesus (as both Lord and Christ) should be our first thought of the day. (Acts 2:36-41)
His salvation plan that began with the message -- "For God so loved ..." (John 3:16)
It is for this reason we continue in the faith grounded and settled, and not moved away from the hope of the gospel, which ye have heard, and which was preached to every creature which is under heaven -- the glorious gospel of God in the face of Jesus Christ. (Colossians 1:23) Indeed, to Him be the honour and glory and praise -- His song in our hearts forevermore.
Yes, Jesus -- the Light of the world.
Stand in the offering plate.
Stand in the offering plate.
Be Not Moved Away From The Good News Gospel Of The Lord Jesus, Our Saviour - Part 2142
"Then was Jesus led up of the Spirit into the wilderness to be tempted of the devil. And when He had fasted forty days and forty nights, He was afterward an hungred. And when the tempter came to Him, he said, "If t/Thou be the Son of God, command that these stones be made bread. ..." (Matthew 4:1)
Continuing from the last post, wherein we shared the example of Jesus being tempted in the wilderness, know that there is so much more to learn herein. First and foremost, understand that Jesus is the Bread of life, and in Him do we find all the wisdom and knowledge needed to instruct us in the day to day.
As Jesus said, "I AM the bread of life: he that cometh to Me shall never hunger; and he that believes on Me shall never thirst." (John 6:35)
Continuing from the last post, wherein we shared the example of Jesus being tempted in the wilderness, know that there is so much more to learn herein. First and foremost, understand that Jesus is the Bread of life, and in Him do we find all the wisdom and knowledge needed to instruct us in the day to day.
As Jesus said, "I AM the bread of life: he that cometh to Me shall never hunger; and he that believes on Me shall never thirst." (John 6:35)
As Jesus also said, "For the bread of God is He which cometh down from heaven, and giveth life unto the world." (John 6:33) And again, Jesus said, "I AM that bread of life." (John 6:48)
Further, Jesus is the Light of the world. For Jesus said, "I AM the light of the world: he that follows Me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life." (John 8:12)
Continuing, it is important to note that Jesus was tempted "after" He became hungry -- after fasting forty days and forty nights. As the scripture saith, when Jesus was afterward hungry, this is when the tempter showed up, trying to outwit the Lord of glory -- as if that were even possible. Still, what did Jesus repeatedly say to the devil? That thou shalt not tempt the Lord thy God! (Matthew 4:7)
Even when "the devil [took] Him up into an exceeding high mountain, and shewed Him all the kingdoms of the world, and the glory of them; and saith unto Him, "All these things will I give Thee, if Thou wilt fall down and worship me" ... Jesus said, "Get thee hence, satan: for it is written -- "Thou shalt worship the Lord thy God, and Him only shalt thou serve." (Matthew 4:8-10)
Even when "the devil [took] Him up into an exceeding high mountain, and shewed Him all the kingdoms of the world, and the glory of them; and saith unto Him, "All these things will I give Thee, if Thou wilt fall down and worship me" ... Jesus said, "Get thee hence, satan: for it is written -- "Thou shalt worship the Lord thy God, and Him only shalt thou serve." (Matthew 4:8-10)
It is herein that the message is so compelling -- for we live in a world wherein (sadly!) we have become increasingly willing to sell our souls for much less than the thirty pieces of silver that Judas coveted. As the world darkens from the void of his Word in the land, we who profess to believe in Him are listening more to those speaking with forked tongues, or even worse, out of both sides of their mouth rather than every Word which proceeds out of the mouth of God.
This should not come as a surprise because both Jesus and the apostles prophesied of the rise in false prophets in these last days. In fact, the Bible states that in the time of the end, men and women would be lovers of pleasure, more than lovers of God. Thus, more now than ever, we need to look to Jesus for our salvation, making Him the Author and Finisher of our faith. Jesus -- the One and Only God who loved us enough to become our Saviour. (Titus 3:4-7; Isaiah 9:6; I Timothy 3:16; Matthew 1:21-23; Revelation 1:8)
But because of the times in which we live, many do not understand what it means to love God with all our heart, soul, mind, and strength. Neither do they understand that the Lord thy God is One Lord. (Deuteronomy 6:4; Mark 12:29-31; Ephesians 4:5-6) As apostle Paul writes, this is to our shame. Nevertheless, it is at this juncture that Jesus being tempted in the wilderness has significance because His desire from even before the world was formed is for you and I -- His beloved creation -- to know Him, and in knowing Him understand that His Name (in this dispensation of grace) is JESUS.
As the angel declared, "for He shall save His people from their sins ... Emmanuel, being interpreted, God with us." (Matthew 1:21-23)
It is for this reason -- "give us this day our daily bread!" We need to understand that the same Spirit of the Lord that moved upon the face of the waters in the beginning loved us -- even then, as His beloved. This is why we who believe should not compromise the good news gospel of the Lord Jesus Christ, but rather feed daily from the Bread of life. In this current dispensation, 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 Light of the world!
Stand in the offering plate.
But because of the times in which we live, many do not understand what it means to love God with all our heart, soul, mind, and strength. Neither do they understand that the Lord thy God is One Lord. (Deuteronomy 6:4; Mark 12:29-31; Ephesians 4:5-6) As apostle Paul writes, this is to our shame. Nevertheless, it is at this juncture that Jesus being tempted in the wilderness has significance because His desire from even before the world was formed is for you and I -- His beloved creation -- to know Him, and in knowing Him understand that His Name (in this dispensation of grace) is JESUS.
As the angel declared, "for He shall save His people from their sins ... Emmanuel, being interpreted, God with us." (Matthew 1:21-23)
It is for this reason -- "give us this day our daily bread!" We need to understand that the same Spirit of the Lord that moved upon the face of the waters in the beginning loved us -- even then, as His beloved. This is why we who believe should not compromise the good news gospel of the Lord Jesus Christ, but rather feed daily from the Bread of life. In this current dispensation, 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 Light of the world!
Stand in the offering plate.
Friday, September 7, 2018
If Ye Continue In The Faith Grounded And Settled, And Be Not Moved Away From The Hope Of The Gospel - Part 2141
Shortly after Jesus was water baptized, He was led up of the spirit into the wilderness and tempted by the devil. And when He had fasted forty days and forty nights, He was afterward an hungred. And when the tempter came to Him, he said, "If T/thou be the Son of God, command that these stones be made bread." But He answered and said, "It is written -- man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceeds out of the mouth of God." (Matthew 4:4; Luke 4:4)
Herein is a critical understanding -- that the devil did not understand Jesus to be God manifest in the flesh, or that, "to wit, God was in Christ reconciling the world unto Himself." (II Corinthians 5:19; I Timothy 3:16) Rather, the devil thought Jesus to be an heir only. wherein if the heir is dead, the devil would receive all the inheritance. We see the same thought process within one of the many parables Jesus told -- wherein "when the husbandmen saw the son, they said among themselves, "This is the heir; come, let us kill h/Him, and let us seize on h/His inheritance." (Matthew 21:38; Mark 12:7; Luke 20:14)
Who is the inheritance? You and I, that the Lord God Almighty loved so much -- indeed, beyond measure that He willingly -- His humanity -- endured the cross. But I digress. So, next, the devil takes Jesus up into the holy city, and set Him on a pinnacle of the temple, and said unto Him, "If T/thou be the Son of God, cast T/thyself down: for it is written, He shall give His angels charge concerning T/thee: and in [their] hands they shall bear T/thee up, lest at any time T/thou dash T/thy foot against a stone." Note that Jesus said unto him, "It is written again -- Thou shalt not tempt the Lord thy God."
Again, for a third time, "the devil takes Him up into an exceeding high mountain, and shews Him all the kingdoms of the world, and the glory of them; and saith unto Him, "All these things will I give T/thee, if T/thou wilt fall down and worship me." Then saith Jesus unto him, "Get thee hence, satan: for it is written, "Thou shalt worship the Lord thy God, and Him only shalt thou serve." Then the devil left Him, and, behold, angels came and ministered unto Him." (Matthew 4:1-11)
In this context, we are so privileged because we can understand how much the Lord God loved us to have become our Saviour. "After the kindness and love of God our Saviour toward man appeared ..." (Titus 3:4-7)
Yes, displayed for all the world to behold -- the love and mercy of our Lord God -- a love so great and powerful, so abundant that satan (the destroyer of people's lives, a murderer of innocent hearts, a deceiver in all things honest, true and just) could never have understood. (John 8:44)
Continuing, the tempter said to Jesus, "All these things will I give to t/Thee if you will fall down and worship me." Of course, satan who is the self appointed prince of this world was a liar from the very beginning. Indeed, as Jesus declared, "the father of all lies." Had satan known that Jesus was the Great I AM in the flesh, personally delivering to His people His free gift of salvation, he would never have encouraged anyone to crucify Jesus.
"For the bread of God is He which [cometh/came] down from heaven, and [gave/gives] life unto the world." (John 6:33, 48)
Similarly, Jesus said, "I am the living bread which came down from heaven: if any man eat of this bread, he shall live forever: and the bread that I will give is My flesh, which I will give for the life of the world." (John 6:51)
Thus, we need to know that our souls are not for sale at any price, and that the love of God our Saviour has made us overcomers and conquerors in all things. He is the one and only absolute in a world where the devil tries to convince us there is no absolute. Ponder on these things today, knowing that Jesus not only will save His people from their sins but is still inviting all of us to turn our hearts to Him and behold His majesty.
Indeed, Jesus is the King of kings and Lord of lords, Alpha and Omega, the first and the last, the beginning and the ending. (Revelation 1:8)
Stand in the offering plate.
Herein is a critical understanding -- that the devil did not understand Jesus to be God manifest in the flesh, or that, "to wit, God was in Christ reconciling the world unto Himself." (II Corinthians 5:19; I Timothy 3:16) Rather, the devil thought Jesus to be an heir only. wherein if the heir is dead, the devil would receive all the inheritance. We see the same thought process within one of the many parables Jesus told -- wherein "when the husbandmen saw the son, they said among themselves, "This is the heir; come, let us kill h/Him, and let us seize on h/His inheritance." (Matthew 21:38; Mark 12:7; Luke 20:14)
Who is the inheritance? You and I, that the Lord God Almighty loved so much -- indeed, beyond measure that He willingly -- His humanity -- endured the cross. But I digress. So, next, the devil takes Jesus up into the holy city, and set Him on a pinnacle of the temple, and said unto Him, "If T/thou be the Son of God, cast T/thyself down: for it is written, He shall give His angels charge concerning T/thee: and in [their] hands they shall bear T/thee up, lest at any time T/thou dash T/thy foot against a stone." Note that Jesus said unto him, "It is written again -- Thou shalt not tempt the Lord thy God."
Again, for a third time, "the devil takes Him up into an exceeding high mountain, and shews Him all the kingdoms of the world, and the glory of them; and saith unto Him, "All these things will I give T/thee, if T/thou wilt fall down and worship me." Then saith Jesus unto him, "Get thee hence, satan: for it is written, "Thou shalt worship the Lord thy God, and Him only shalt thou serve." Then the devil left Him, and, behold, angels came and ministered unto Him." (Matthew 4:1-11)
As scripture reveals other places, the devil was convinced that Jesus was only an heir -- a son -- and therefore in killing Him, the devil would gain the world, and everything and every one within. Note how flawed the devil's thinking -- to believe that everyone has a price. Still, in this context, the devil was determined that if he could convince Jesus to desire the things of this world, the devil would gain the world, and all things within.
We see a further understanding of this in Paul's writings to the church in Corinth -- "which none of the princes of this world knew: for had they known [it], they would not have crucified the Lord of glory." (II Corinthians 2:8)
We see a further understanding of this in Paul's writings to the church in Corinth -- "which none of the princes of this world knew: for had they known [it], they would not have crucified the Lord of glory." (II Corinthians 2:8)
In this context, we are so privileged because we can understand how much the Lord God loved us to have become our Saviour. "After the kindness and love of God our Saviour toward man appeared ..." (Titus 3:4-7)
Yes, displayed for all the world to behold -- the love and mercy of our Lord God -- a love so great and powerful, so abundant that satan (the destroyer of people's lives, a murderer of innocent hearts, a deceiver in all things honest, true and just) could never have understood. (John 8:44)
Continuing, the tempter said to Jesus, "All these things will I give to t/Thee if you will fall down and worship me." Of course, satan who is the self appointed prince of this world was a liar from the very beginning. Indeed, as Jesus declared, "the father of all lies." Had satan known that Jesus was the Great I AM in the flesh, personally delivering to His people His free gift of salvation, he would never have encouraged anyone to crucify Jesus.
For clarity, note that Jesus did not hide His identity from satan. Rather, satan was fooled by the earlier example of Abraham offering his son for sacrifice. So even though Jesus essentially told satan who He was, satan was fooled because to him, the greatest love story on earth, wherein God was manifest in the flesh so that He could redeem His beloved creation from our sins was outside of satan's scope. Outside because satan does not understand love -- only destruction after wooing the unlearned into his lies concerning "all these things."
Nevertheless, even in the wilderness Jesus stayed the course, continuing to tell satan that he shalt not tempt the Lord thy God. Note that Jesus told satan again that he shalt worship the Lord thy God and Him only shalt thou serve. And that we should not live by bread alone, but every word that proceeds from the mouth of God. As Jesus said so often -- I AM He - "I AM the Bread of Life! he that cometh to Me shall never hunger; and he that believes on Me shall never thirst." (John 6:35)
"For the bread of God is He which [cometh/came] down from heaven, and [gave/gives] life unto the world." (John 6:33, 48)
Thus, we need to know that our souls are not for sale at any price, and that the love of God our Saviour has made us overcomers and conquerors in all things. He is the one and only absolute in a world where the devil tries to convince us there is no absolute. Ponder on these things today, knowing that Jesus not only will save His people from their sins but is still inviting all of us to turn our hearts to Him and behold His majesty.
Indeed, Jesus is the King of kings and Lord of lords, Alpha and Omega, the first and the last, the beginning and the ending. (Revelation 1:8)
Stand in the offering plate.
Thursday, August 30, 2018
There Is None Other But Me, Saith The Lord God, Who Was And Is And Is To Come; His Name JESUS! - Part 2140
And ye shall call His Name JESUS for He shall save His people from their sins ... Emmanuel, being interpreted, God with us! (Matthew 1:21-23)
The dayspring from on high has visited His people. Indeed, He was in the world and the world was made by Him and the world knew Him not. (John 1:10-11) To wit, that God was in Christ reconciling the world unto Himself. (II Corinthians 5:19) God manifest in the flesh. (I Timothy 3:16; Isaiah 9:6)
It is for this reason that the Lord Jesus hath invited us into His fold -- when we allow the love and peace of Jesus to rule in our hearts. Why is this important? Because Jesus through the tender mercy of our God, which by the dawn from on high has visited us. He did not send another but came Himself, having robed Himself in sin-prone flesh, and yet without sin. As the scripture declares, the Lord hath come forth as a mighty man. (Isaiah 9:6)
Indeed, through His tender mercy is the free grace and abundant mercy of our Lord God and Saviour available to each and every one of us who asks Jesus into our hearts, believing on Him who bore our sins upon the cross. We have to make a decision to choose life, and to accept His free gift of salvation that He provided when He shed His own precious holy blood on the cross.
"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)
For as the scripture states, it was mercy that moved God to enter into a covenant that included the most high God becoming flesh (as one of us, and yet without sin) and shedding His precious holy blood on a cross for the remission of our sins. His abundant and eternal love in which forgiveness of sin is promised. It was the mercy of God -- His love -- that led the One and Only who created us in the beginning to become a Lamb for a sacrifice. (I Peter 4:1-10)
This is why as believers in Jesus we continue in the faith -- grounded and settled -- in His perfect love. It is also why we choose not to move away from the hope of the gospel that can only be found in Jesus Christ. Even the mystery which hath been hid from the ages and from generations until now -- this appointed time --- and now made manifest to believers in Jesus. His saints "to whom God would make known what is the riches of the glory of the mystery among the Gentiles" - you and I - which is Christ in you -- the hope of glory. (Colossians 1:23-26)
This same Jesus - which according to His abundant mercy hath begotten us again unto a lively hope by the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead to an inheritance incorruptible and undefiled and that fades not away -- reserved in heaven for you and I.
This same JESUS - whom the apostles preached to every man and woman they met, teaching the same good news gospel message so that He may present every one of these perfect in Christ Jesus. Because when we come into this world, we know that all have sinned and fallen short of the glory of God. Not one of us could make it on our own. But the Lord God who created us had a plan that He decided before the foundation of the world was even formed. A plan of redemption wherein a costly purchase -- with His own holy blood -- had to be made.
For as the scripture states, it was mercy that moved God to enter into a covenant that included the most high God becoming flesh (as one of us, and yet without sin) and shedding His precious holy blood on a cross for the remission of our sins. His abundant and eternal love in which forgiveness of sin is promised. It was the mercy of God -- His love -- that led the One and Only who created us in the beginning to become a Lamb for a sacrifice. (I Peter 4:1-10)
This is why as believers in Jesus we continue in the faith -- grounded and settled -- in His perfect love. It is also why we choose not to move away from the hope of the gospel that can only be found in Jesus Christ. Even the mystery which hath been hid from the ages and from generations until now -- this appointed time --- and now made manifest to believers in Jesus. His saints "to whom God would make known what is the riches of the glory of the mystery among the Gentiles" - you and I - which is Christ in you -- the hope of glory. (Colossians 1:23-26)
This same Jesus - which according to His abundant mercy hath begotten us again unto a lively hope by the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead to an inheritance incorruptible and undefiled and that fades not away -- reserved in heaven for you and I.
This same JESUS - whom the apostles preached to every man and woman they met, teaching the same good news gospel message so that He may present every one of these perfect in Christ Jesus. Because when we come into this world, we know that all have sinned and fallen short of the glory of God. Not one of us could make it on our own. But the Lord God who created us had a plan that He decided before the foundation of the world was even formed. A plan of redemption wherein a costly purchase -- with His own holy blood -- had to be made.
After the kindness and love of God our Saviour toward man appeared. (Titus 3:4-7; I Timothy 3:16)
Let that sink in for a moment. Then take hold of His truth in your hearts, and be filled with His joy. Set your affection on things above, not on the things of earth. Put on the new man which is renewed in knowledge after the image of Him that created him. Rejoice inasmuch as you are partakers of Christ's sufferings that when His glory shall be revealed, you may be glad also with exceeding joy. The exceeding joy of Jesus - the "happy are ye" that is spoken of in I Peter chapter four.
Put on too -- as the elect of our Lord God and Saviour -- holy and beloved -- the deep depth of mercies, kindness, humbleness of mind, meekness and long suffering. And above all these things put on charity which is the bond of perfectness. In other words, let the love and peace of Jesus rule in your hearts. every moment of every day. For Jesus never fails.
Let that sink in for a moment. Then take hold of His truth in your hearts, and be filled with His joy. Set your affection on things above, not on the things of earth. Put on the new man which is renewed in knowledge after the image of Him that created him. Rejoice inasmuch as you are partakers of Christ's sufferings that when His glory shall be revealed, you may be glad also with exceeding joy. The exceeding joy of Jesus - the "happy are ye" that is spoken of in I Peter chapter four.
Put on too -- as the elect of our Lord God and Saviour -- holy and beloved -- the deep depth of mercies, kindness, humbleness of mind, meekness and long suffering. And above all these things put on charity which is the bond of perfectness. In other words, let the love and peace of Jesus rule in your hearts. every moment of every day. For Jesus never fails.
Stand in the offering plate.
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