There Is None Other Beside Me, The Great I AM - Part 2365

"... knowing that a man is not justified by the works of the law, but by the faith of Jesus Christ, even we have believed in Jesus Christ, that we might be justified by the faith of Christ, and not by the works of the law: for by the works of the law shall no flesh be justified." (Galatians 2:16)

"Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen. For by it the elders obtained a good report. Through faith we understand that the worlds were framed by the word of God, so that things which are seen were not made of things which do appear. ..." (Hebrews 1:1-3)

As the Lord saith through the scriptures, faith breaks down all barriers. Why? Because as the New Testament repeatedly states, faith is the substance of things hoped for, and the evidence of things not seen! Without faith then, it is impossible to please God, for he or she that comes to God, must first believe that He is. Similarly, we must believe that God is a rewarder of all them that diligently seek Him.

If we use the Old Testament Abraham as an example, we know that Abraham was known as the father of the faithful. It was stated that Abraham believed God, and that his belief in God was counted to him as righteousness.

"... Even as Abraham believed God, and it was accounted to him for righteousness. Know ye therefore that they which are of faith, the same are the children of Abraham. And the scripture, foreseeing that God would justify the heathen through faith, preached before the gospel unto Abraham, saying, In thee shall all nations be blessed." (Galatians 3:6-8)As with Abraham, faith its is a gift from God. It is in this context that God has given to every one a measure of faith.

Paul's question -- "... he therefore that ministers to you the Spirit, and works miracles among you, doeth he it by the works of the law, or by the hearing of faith?" (Galatians 3:5)
Faith then comes by hearing the Word of God. We are justified by child-like faith in the Word made flesh; faith in our Lord God and Saviour Jesus the Christ. Moreover, from the very beginning, our Lord God and Saviour planned His free gift of salvation so that we (His creation) could experience eternal life. Thus, if faith arises within us as a result of hearing and believing the written Word of God, we should be so very thankful ... because we cannot "earn" our salvation.

So what should we - the body of Christ church be doing? Well, we can discard immediately theories that suggest dumb matter created intelligent life. Because as the scripture states, the fool has said in his heart that there is no God. Look around - touch and see that God is everywhere. His handiwork displayed in the sunsets, the mountains, the ocean, the life of a newborn. His creative hand revealed in the flowers in the fields, the fruit on the trees and the harvest in the fields. Listen to the voices of nature that emerge and flourish in spring.

Even look at yourself and how wonderfully you are made. Reacquaint and refresh ourselves in the gospel of the Lord Jesus the Christ. Speak to others about the goodness of a God who loved us so much that He would willingly shed His precious holy blood for us at Calvary. (Acts 20:28)

The One and Only salvation message wherein Jesus' words and deeds cry out for us to believe. Only believe. Have faith in our God and Saviour Jesus. Follow Him so that He can make you fishers of men. Let Him arise in your heart!

Then you will hear Jesus whisper. "Look to Me all you people for I AM the Lord your God and beside Me there is no Saviour."

Stand in the offering plate.

But The Path Of The Just Is As The Shining Light, That Shines More And More Unto The Perfect Day - Part 2364

Jesus said, "Follow Me!" (Luke 5:27)

"My little children, these things write I unto you, that ye sin not. And if any man sin, we have an advocate with the Father Jesus Christ the righteous: and He is the propitiation for our sins: and not for ours only, but also for [the sins of] the whole world. And hereby we do know that we know Him, if we keep His commandments; he that saith, "I know Him, and keeps not His commandments, is a liar, and the truth is not in him. But whoso keeps His Word, in Him verily is the love of God perfected: hereby know we that we are in Him. He that saith he abides in Him ought himself also so to walk, even as He walked." (II John 2:1-6)

So, how did the Lord Jesus walk whilst on earth? Most certainly, we note His moments of compassion wherein he healed the sick, the lame and the blind. He fed the hungry. He stood up against the worldly and religious authorities responsible for abusing the downtrodden. He taught His disciples how to be the salt and the light of the world. Indeed, Jesus reiterated that "a city that is set on a hill cannot be hid." (Matthew 5:14; Proverbs 4:18)

He established His doctrine here on earth and the people marvelled. Jesus told them of the things to come. In the storm, Jesus rebuked the wind and the seas. In teaching, He taught the disciples how to increase their faith. (Luke 17:1-10)

Jesus also shared parables -- treasures of wisdom and knowledge -- wherein those with hearts to see and hear would be blessed. He spoke of the wise and foolish builders, and how a house built on a rock would not shake . In performing miracles, Jesus turned the water into wine. Jesus healed the centurion's servant from afar. 

He preached the Kingdom of God with a fervour, both inside the synagogues and in the marketplace. He entered Simon's ship and prayed that he would thrust a little from the land so He could teach the people. And when Jesus subsequently told Jesus to let down your nets for a draught, and Simon did (after a night of fishing and catching nothing) they inclosed so great a multitude of fish, the net broke. (Luke 5:1-11)

Jesus taught us to pray, but He also taught us how to live our prayers. How to rejoice in persecution, and how to declare "peace be!" He showed us the value of life and how the very hairs of our head are numbered. How we are of more value than many sparrows. (Luke 12:1-12) 

How Jesus looked up, seeing the rich men casting their gifts into the treasury also saw a certain poor widow casting in thither two mites, and said, "Of a truth I say unto you, that this poor widow hath cast in more than they all; for all these have of their abundance cast in unto the offerings of God: but she of her penury hath cast in all the living that she had." (Luke 21:1-4)

Jesus was asked, "Art Thou the Christ?" (Luke 22:67) Nevertheless, He instructs His disciples to become fishers of men ... to go and preach the kingdom of God to the uttermost ends of the earth. (Luke 9:60) 

Then spake Jesus again unto them, saying, "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)

Jesus wept. Jesus prayed in the Garden of Gethsamane, knowing what was yet to come. He watched one of the twelve who had travelled with Jesus for three plus years betray Him for thirty pieces of silver. 

He endured a trial wherein there could be found no fault -- touching those things whereof the crowds accused Him, and yet they shouted, "Crucify Him, crucify Him." (Luke 23:1-25) And when they had come to the place which is called Calvary, there they crucified Him and the male factors, one on the right and the other on the left. 

But then Jesus said, "Father, forgive them; for they know not what they do." And they parted His raiment and cast lots. And the people stood beholding. And the rulers also with them derided [Him] saying, "He saved others; let Him save Himself, if He be the Christ, the chosen of God." And the soldiers also mocked Him, coming to Him, and offering Him vinegar, and saying, "If Thou be the King of the Jews, save Thyself." (Luke 23:26-37)

With a crown of thorns on His head, and a spear thrust into His side, the superscription written over Him in letters of Greek, and Latin, and Hebrew said it all -- "THIS IS THE KING OF THE JEWS!" (LUKE 23:38)

Three days and three nights later Jesus rose from the dead -- indeed, the King of the Jews, but evenmoreso the King of kings and Lord of lords. Yes, Jesus is the Alpha and Omega, the first and the last, the beginning and the ending. The One and Only blessed Potentate, who loved us so much that He would shed His precious, holy blood on a cross for you and I.

At no point, did Jesus ever abandon His beloved people. While satan tried to kill the love displayed at Calvary, our Lord God and Saviour Jesus the Christ won the victory. His grace so amazing; His love everlasting. To wit that God was in Christ reconciling the world unto Himself. And to this day, this same Jesus whom we have crucified continues to invite us to most elaborate wedding feast ever. His hands outstretched, saying to those who are weary and heavy laden -- Come!

This is the Lord God which we serve, who shines more and more unto that perfect day when He comes for His body of Christ church. In the interim, rejoice and be thankful, praising God for His favour and goodness and gifts.

After the kindness and love of God our Saviour toward man appeared. (Titus 3:4-7)

Stand in the offering plate.

It's Time To Enter Into The Ark Of Salvation; Into The Arms Of Our Lord God And Saviour Jesus The Christ - Part 2363

In plain terms, Eve is the mother of all living while Adam was the earthly image of God. Jesus is the beginning of the visible, spiritual coming forth from the innermost being of God - Jesus, the express image of the unseen Spirit. The scriptures state "for in Jesus did dwell all the fullness of the Godhead" -- the invisible Spirit. (Colossians 2:9; I Timothy 3:16; Isaiah 9:6; II Corinthians 5:19)

This is the same Spirit that even the heavens of the heavens cannot contain. Adam was a visible earthly form of God’s spiritual form from the very beginning. The spiritual visible form bore a name. That name was and still is JESUS. The name JESUS is a name above every other name in Heaven, and upon earth. And yes, it was this same Jesus who laid aside His Glory, humbling Himself while purposely veiling Himself in flesh to dwell among us. It is this same Jesus who so loved the world, appearing in fashion as a son of Adam.

Jesus was the afore ordained lamb. God Himself stooping to save man. God revealing His everlasting Love. His planned counsel of His spiritual will, now to be shown in creation, which He Himself will rule and reign over. And rightly so inasmuch as He is the source of all things seen and unseen. This plan of Love had to be manifest. Otherwise God’s love would be beyond our comprehension.

For scarcely can we take in the magnitude of thoughts when we consider that God Himself would become the sacrificial Lamb. Therefore, let no man boast of obtainable salvation resulting from good deeds. For in God’s eyes our good works are as filthy rags. Sin was and is sin that at the end of the day brings forth death.

It is for this reason that sin had to be eradicated, in order for the purposed plan of God to proceed. This eradication of sin, required holy, pure and undefiled blood. God searched for undefiled blood, and then proclaimed to one and all .. "There is none righteous. No, not one."

Here is the stumbling block. If there be none of us found righteous, then we are in dire straits. And there would be no way to bridge the gap between God and man. But this, as we now know from the scriptures is not what God wanted for the human race. For His beloved creation.

So once again God steps in. Why? Because nothing shall separate us from the love of God. God exhausts every avenue to redeem man from satan’s grasp. God loves us more than tongue or pen can express. God steps in and offers Himself as the redeeming offering of sacrifice. Yes, GOD SACRIFICED HIMSELF.

God’s blood is undefiled - pure. Our holy God veiled Himself in sin prone flesh so that we could be saved. What humiliation He experienced. God laying aside His splendour for you and I. Now if that is not love personified! This is the love of God manifest in flesh. In fact, redemption necessitated the crucifixion of the Lord of Glory.

So how can we escape a confrontation with God if we neglect so great love? We need to accept Jesus, the Prince of Peace. We also need to recognize that this offer of salvation will not last forever. Like the Jews who have been the recipients of all sorts of misfortune, we Gentiles were also given an opportunity to believe the gospel message of the Lord Jesus Christ. But there is also the warning - that is, if the Gentiles continue not in faith they also shall be cut off.

Again, this is not what God wants. God is righteous! He wants each and every one of us - the Jews and the Gentiles - to believe in Him. To discover His purpose in them. But He would not railroad us into making a decision. Instead, He offered the choice of life, of peace and joy, of everlasting life. And He said, "It is your call."

Still, God is not willing that anyone perish. In fact, the Lord Jesus is still inviting us into His fold this day. Today is the day of salvation. Come unto Him today. Because as the Biblical prophecies continue to make news headlines, the door into the ark of salvation is closing. We need to enter in and let His love and righteousness clothe us.

 Know too that JESUS is the Ark. Stand in the offering plate.

And They Shall Walk Up And Down In His Name, Saith The Lord - Part 2362

"Out of Him came forth the corner, out of Him the nail, out of Him the battle bow, out of Him every oppressor together. And they shall be as mighty men ..." 

Herein, the Lord is speaking to His people through the prophet Zechariah. He points to the shepherds who have led His people astray.  He speaks of the idols which have spoken vanity, and the false diviners who say they have seen but testify a lie. The Lord also warns against those who share false dreams, and also attempt to comfort in vain. And, as a consequence, the Lord is showing why the people in the land have become troubled -- because there is no shepherd.

Specifically, the Lord saith, "Ask ye of the Lord rain in the time of the latter rain; so the Lord shall make bright clouds, and give them showers of rain, to every one grass in the field. For the idols have spoken vanity, and the diviners have seen a lie, and have told false dreams; they comfort in vain: therefore they went their way as a flock, they were troubled, because there was no shepherd." (Zechariah 10:1-2)

The Lord reiterates this same message through other prophets as well.

"And they were scattered, because [there is] no shepherd: and they became meat to all the beasts of the field, when they were scattered." (Ezekiel 34:5)

"As I live," saith the Lord God, "surely because My flock became a prey, and My flock became meat to every beast of the field, because there was no shepherd, neither did My shepherds search for My flock, but the shepherds fed themselves, and fed not My flock ..." (Ezekiel 34:8)

Thus saith the Lord God, "Behold, I AM against the shepherds; and I will require My flock at their hand, and cause them to cease from feeding the flock; neither shall the shepherds feed themselves any more; for I will deliver My flock from their mouth, that they may not be meat for them." (Ezekiel 34:10)

"My people perish for lack of knowledge ..." (Hosea 4:6)

Why are these scriptures important to understand? Because in the next verse, the Lord saith, "Mine anger was kindled against the shepherds, and I punished the goats ..." (Zechariah 10:3)  The Lord further explains, "My tabernacle is spoiled, and all My cords are broken. My children are gone forth of Me, and they are not: there is none to stretch forth My tent any more, and to set up My curtains." (Jeremiah 10:20)

Before continuing, it might be helpful to understand that the word for idols is "teraphim" which means worshippers of idols, and by extension, the idolatrous who worship idols of stone, gold, silver, brass, and wood. These people should know that idols can't hear or see, but yet these are still willing to worship them. As for the false diviners, the Lord is saying these speak lies in hypocrisy, blaspheming the precious, holy Name of our Lord God and Saviour Jesus the Christ, because they do not know in whom they serve.  In other words, the diviners prophesy falsehoods. 

"... whose possessors slay them, and hold themselves not guilty: and they that sell them say, "Blessed be the Lord; for I am rich: and their own shepherds pity them not." (Zechariah 11:5)

Throughout, the Lord is warning against those religious leaders who comfort our souls in vain. Examples of these kinds of vain comfort includes religious dogma without any scriptural basis, purgatory and/or the belief that men can forgive sins. We can also point to the increasing number of self-declared prophets who are more aligned with the message of motivational speakers than having an understanding of the Lord God our Saviour. 

Thankfully, all is not lost. The Lord was compassionate on His beloved. Indeed, the Lord had a redemption plan wherein He would bring salvation to those who are lost. And we see this -- when we begin to understand how much the Lord was moved with compassion -- because His sheep were without a shepherd. It is for this reason, the Lord saith, "For, lo, I will raise up a Shepherd in the land ..." (Zechariah 11:16)

After the kindness and love of God our Saviour toward man appeared ..." (Titus 3:4-7; I Timothy 3:16; II Corinthians 5:19; Revelation 1:8; Isaiah 9:6) 

"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)

From the New Testament -- "when Jesus saw the multitudes, He was moved with compassion on them, because they fainted, and were scattered abroad, as sheep having no shepherd." (Matthew 9:36)

"And Jesus, when He came out, saw much people, and was moved with compassion toward them, because they were as sheep not having a shepherd: and He began to teach them many things." (Mark 6:34)

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

"Now the God of peace, that brought again from the dead our Lord Jesus, that great Shepherd of the sheep, through the blood of the everlasting covenant ..." (Hebrews 13:20)

"For ye were as sheep going astray; but are now returned unto the Shepherd and Bishop of your souls." (I Peter 2:25)

"And when the chief Shepherd shall appear, ye shall receive a crown of glory that fades not away." (I Peter 5:4)

Stand in the offering plate.

Those Who Believed Rejoiced; Were Of One Heart and One Soul; In One Accord; Abiding In The Lord Jesus - Part 2361

"Behold ye among the heathen, and regard, and wonder marvelously; for I will work a work in your days which you will not believe, though it be told you ..." (Habbakuk 1:5)

"Though it tarry, wait for it ... for the earth shall be filled with the knowledge of the glory of the Lord, as the waters cover the sea," (Habbakuk 2:3, 14)

"And when they had prayed, the place was shaken where they were assembled together; and they were all filled with the Holy Ghost, and they spake the Word of God with boldness. And the multitude of them that believed were of one heart and of one soul: neither said any of them that ought of the things which he possessed was his own; but they had all things common. And with great power gave the apostles witness of the resurrection of the Lord Jesus: and great grace was upon them all.

Neither was there any among them that lacked: for as many as were possessors of lands or houses sold them, and brought the prices of the things that were sold, and laid them down at the apostles’ feet: and distribution was made unto every man according as he had need. And Joses, who by the apostles was surnamed Barnabas, (which is, being interpreted, The son of consolation,) a Levite, and of the country of Cyprus, having land, sold it, and brought the money, and laid it at the apostles’ feet." (Acts 4:31-37)

The same outcome was evident on the day of Pentecost. Those that repented and were water baptized in the precious holy Name of the Lord Jesus received the gift of the Holy Ghost. And as we also know from the Acts 2 account, not one person was without.

"Then they that gladly received His Word were baptized: and the same day there were added [unto them] about three thousand souls. And they 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." (Acts 2:36-43)

This is the joyous consequence of salvation -- the "what happens" -- when you are filled with the Holy Ghost, speaking the Word of God with boldness. The response that happens when believers pray in one accord --  the place filled with the Holy Ghost. We begin to understand that the things we possess are no longer our own. The world holds no value. Or, as apostle Paul shares, "Yea doubtless, and I count all things [but] loss for the excellency of the knowledge of Christ Jesus my Lord: for whom I have suffered the loss of all things, and do count them [but] dung, that I may win Christ," (Philippians 3:8)

Jesus primes us for this moment when He said, "Except a man forsake all that he hath ..." In another place, "Except a man deny himself, take up his cross and follow Me, he cannot be My disciple ..."
Why? Because there is no greater treasure than the risen Jesus. The first man Adam earthly, but the second the Lord from heaven. The Great I AM. The King of kings and Lord of lords -- to Him all the honour and glory and praise -- for He alone is worthy!

And He -- the resurrected Jesus -- who is both Lord and Christ -- is about to perform a work wherein the earth shall be filled with the knowledge of the glory of the Lord! And in this time, the gates of hell SHALL NOT prevail against His Church. Because the Lord is going to pour out His Spirit upon all flesh who believe in the Great Shepherd who laid down His life for His sheep.

Are you ready? Are you prepared?

For the moment in time when those who said they were Jews and were not ...  come to worship at your feet because you kept His Word, and never denied His precious holy Name. (Revelation 3:8-9)

The numerous times you didn't back down when the churches and synagogues kicked you out because these didn't want to hear the Name of the Lord Jesus. Throughout, you didn't' settle for the heretic teachings and the religious traditions of men. Instead, you stood up for the things that are right and just and true; against the spiritual wickedness in high places.

Yes, the time is coming when the self-declared church leaders will be on THE OUTSIDE peering in, finally recognizing how very much the Lord Jesus loved His beloved people who did not forsake His Name or His Word -- even in times of tribulation.

While Daniel said the time would come when we would be weary, we shouldn't be for the Lord hath said, "Look up for your salvation draws nigh." This is why (like the Israelites) we follow the Rock which is Christ. (I Corinthians 1:1-4) Because He will never leave us nor forsake us. Likewise, Jesus is the treasure in which nothing else compares.

Behold, the Lamb of God! Stand in the offering plate.

Now By This We Know That We Know Him; Because The Lord Jesus Dwells Within - Part 2360

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

But for those who know in whom they serve, these understand that the resurrected Jesus is both Lord and Christ. (Acts 2:36) That this same Jesus told His disciples -- "I and My Father are One!" (John 10:30) And similarly, that if y/we had seen Jesus, we have seen the Father and know Him." (John 14:6-12)

The mystery that was held in the bosom of the Father from the beginning of the world. The One and Only God who loved us enough to shed His precious holy blood on a cross for you and I. (Acts 20:28; Isaiah 9:6; John 1:10-11; I Timothy 3:16) 

"After the kindness and love of God our Saviour ..." (Titus 3:4-7)

"My little children, these things write I unto you, that ye sin not. And if any man sin, we have an advocate with the Father Jesus Christ the righteous: and He is the propitiation for our sins: and not for ours only, but also for [the sins of] the whole world." (I John 2:1-3)

So why do so many within the modern day religious culture want to divide God Almighty into thirds? A triad? A triune god? Or as the statements of faith suggest -- God in three persons? Or worse yet, some multi-headed god? Even when the first commandment begins with "Hear O Israel, the Lord thy God is One Lord!" (Deuteronomy 6:4; Mark 12:29-31)

Moreover, when will we truly understand His over abundance of love for His beloved creation -- so much so that He willingly desired for us to become an heir in Him, and was willing, as the Good Shepherd, to lay down His life for His sheep. Yes, 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. (John 1:1-18)

Not another God or a separate God -- but rather, the One and Only Living God. Emmanuel, being interpreted, God with us. His Name (as the angel of the Lord declared) JESUS, for He shall save His people from their sins. (Matthew 1:21-23)

It is in this context that John writes: "I have written unto you, fathers, because ye have known Him [that is] from the beginning. I have written unto you, young men, because ye are strong, and the Word of God abides in you, and ye have overcome the wicked one. Love not the world, neither the things in the world. If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him. For all that is in the world—the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life—is not of the Father but is of the world. And the world is passing away, and the lust of it; but he who does the will of God abides forever." (I John 2:14-16)

And, in another place, "Now by this we know that we know Him, if we keep His commandments. He who says, I know Him, and does not keep His commandments is a liar, and the truth is not in him. But whoever keeps His Word, truly the love of God is perfected in him. By this we know that we are in Him. He who says He abides in him ought himself also to walk just as He (Jesus) walked."

How did Christ walk? In humility, as God manifest in the flesh. Among people who were brokenhearted and sick. Teaching doctrine that caused those who heard to marvel. Unwavering. Unchangeable. Sharing that we too had to become as little children, worshipping Him with all our hearts, souls, minds, and strength. 

Yes, Jesus -- the Great I AM who is the Way, the Truth and the Life.  The Bread of Life. The Living Water. The Alpha and Omega, the First and the Last, the Beginning and the Ending, King of kings and Lord of lords. 

The greatest love story ever told. Come into His presence this day. Let the Lord of hosts Jesus the Christ cleanse you and fill your heart to overflowing with His joy and peace. Worship Him with all your heart -- for He alone is worthy of honour and praise!

Most of all, magnify His precious, holy Name.  Stand in the offering plate.

The Lord Of Hosts Hath Visited His Flock; The House of Judah - Part 2359

Zechariah 10:3-5 must have contained a more powerful message than even I had determined, particularly given that the original post disappeared shortly after it was published. Thus, for now, I will re-post Zechariah 10 in its entirety, and republish the former completed blog on the same chapter as Part 2361. Hopefully, the censorship police have moved on by then!

"Ask ye of the Lord rain in the time of the latter rain; so the Lord shall make bright clouds and give them showers of rain, to every one grass in the field. For the idols have spoken vanity, and the diviners have seen a lie, and have told false dreams; they comfort in vain: therefore they went their way as a flock, they were troubled, because there was no shepherd.

Mine anger was kindled against the shepherds, and I punished the goats: for the Lord of hosts hath visited His flock the house of Judah, and hath made them as His goodly horse in the battle. Out of Him came forth the corner, out of Him the nail, out of Him the battle bow, out of Him every oppressor together. And they shall be as mighty men, which tread down their enemies in the mire of the streets in the battle: and they shall fight, because the Lord is with them, and the riders on horses shall be confounded.

And I will strengthen the house of Judah, and I will save the house of Joseph, and I will bring them again to place them; for I have mercy upon them: and they shall be as though I had not cast them off: for I am the Lord their God, and will hear them. And they of Ephraim shall be like a mighty man, and their heart shall rejoice as through wine: yea, their children shall see it, and be glad; their heart shall rejoice in the Lord.

I will hiss for them, and gather them; for I have redeemed them: and they shall increase as they have increased. And I will sow them among the people: and they shall remember me in far countries; and they shall live with their children, and turn again. I will bring them again also out of the land of Egypt, and gather them out of Assyria; and I will bring them into the land of Gilead and Lebanon; and place shall not be found for them.

And He shall pass through the sea with affliction, and shall smite the waves in the sea, and all the deeps of the river shall dry up: and the pride of Assyria shall be brought down, and the sceptre of Egypt shall depart away. And I will strengthen them in the Lord; and they shall walk up and down in His Name," saith the Lord.

Stand in the offering plate.

Behold, The Days Come, Saith The Lord, That I Will Make A New Covenant With The House Of Israel, And With The House Of Judah - Part 2358

"Thus saith God the Lord, He that created the heavens, and stretched them out; He that spread forth the earth, and that which comes out of it; He that gives breath unto the people upon it, and Spirit to them that walk therein: I the Lord have called Thee in righteousness, and will hold Thine hand, and will keep Thee, and give Thee for a covenant of the people, for a Light of the Gentiles; to open the blind eyes, to bring out the prisoners from the prison, and them that sit in darkness out of the prison house." (Isaiah 42:5-7)

"Incline your ear, and come unto Me: hear, and your soul shall live; and I will make an everlasting covenant with you, [even] the sure mercies of David." (Isaiah 55:3)

This is the covenant I will make with them after those days. (Jeremiah 31:31) Not according to the former covenant that I made with their fathers but a new covenant. Indeed, this covenant is not an addendum to the former as in the old or former written in stone. Rather, the new covenant is to be written on the fleshly tables of individual's hearts. God promised the inheritors of this new covenant that He would be to them their God and they shall be to Him their people. 

Yes, a people which were not a people but now are the people of God, a purchased people bought at an invaluable price. Of God’s own blood flowing in the veins of God’s only begotten son JESUS. Please note that the Scriptures state "begotten and not begat." The First Covenant issued and delivered at the mount to Moses was a covenant gendering to bondage, whereas the New Covenant brought life. These covenants were in existence from the garden of Eden, typified as two trees of which Adam was forewarned not to partake. In fact, he was told that if he were to eat of the tree of knowledge, of good and evil, he would surely die. The other tree was the tree of Life.

The first Covenant was detailed and outlined at the mountain. It was a covenant between God and man. One might consider it to be a covenant of do’s and do nots, a covenant of blessings and curse. Upon delivery of the first Covenant, three thousand persons perished. If we contrast this with the New Testament, the New Covenant saw three thousand persons saved. The contrast then is life and death. The First Covenant was written on stone. It was a covenant of death. The new covenant is to be written upon the fleshly tables of our heart.

In other words, the New Covenant was a covenant not dependent upon we, the fallen race. If we had been allowed to partake of the tree of life, we should have for all eternity been compassed about with calamity. That is why Adam and Eve were removed from the garden, thereby preventing us from bringing the roof down on our heads. The New Covenant was a covenant brought into effect by the Lord Himself. The Lord covenanting with Himself. A covenant between the One God who is Spirit and God Himself as a son  -- not another person. This is the reason that JESUS is the Author and the Finisher of Our Faith. He alone is able to award the free gift of eternal life. This free gift brought into reality not as a result of our work, for it is written in the scriptures - "It is not obtained by works, lest any man should boast."

Recall that Abraham had two sons. The first one by a bond woman and the second by a free woman. The child born to the bond woman was man as usual, endeavouring to do things his way. The other son born to the free woman was a child of promise to Abraham coming forth into life against all impossible odds. Isaac, the child of promise. We, like Isaac are God’s children of promise. This people have I formed for My Name’s sake. We have been made alive, resulting from God’s Love that will never let us go. We are engraved in the palms of His hands. We are His offspring. 

The first Adam of the earth. However, the second Adam, the Lord Himself coming out of Heaven enabling salvation to be obtainable by He, as a Son, sacrificing Himself. He put Himself in our place. He shed His precious holy blood. 

This is the New Covenant. The testament written in blood. This is why the scriptures state that he who has the Son has Life. We are the Seed of Christ. Beloved now are we the Sons of God, fellowshipping with our Great God and only Saviour the Lord Jesus. His blood avails for us. He is also faithful that promised.  Peace be in the precious, holy Name of the Lord Jesus.

Stand in the offering plate.

But None Of These Things Move Me ... That I Might Finish My Course With Joy, And The Ministry, Which I Received Of the Lord Jesus - Part 2357

Jesus said to Annanias, concerning Saul -- "Go thy way, for he is a chosen vessel unto Me, to bear My Name before the Gentiles, and kings, and the children of Israel, for I will shew him how great things he must suffer for My Name's sake." (Acts 9:15-16; Acts 13:2; Acts 21:11; Ephesians 3:7-8; II Corinthians 11:23-27)

For My Name's sake!

"If My people, which are called by My Name, shall humble themselves, and pray, and seek My face, and turn from their wicked ways; then will I hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin, and will heal their land." (II Chronicles 7:14)

Throughout the scriptures, the Lord our God identified Himself by a specific name -- so that His people would know Him. From the Old Testament, we know the Lord God used over 100 different names. In the New Testament (this current dispensation of grace in which we live), the angel of the Lord gave us one Name. That is, "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)

This verse in context - "But while he thought on these things, behold, the angel of the Lord appeared unto him in a dream, saying, "Joseph, thou son of David, fear not to take unto thee Mary thy wife: for that which is conceived in her is of the Holy Ghost. And she shall bring forth a son, and thou shalt call His Name JESUS: for He shall save his people from their sins.

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

Then Joseph being raised from sleep did as the angel of the Lord had bidden him, and took unto him his wife: 25 and knew her not till she had brought forth her firstborn son: and he called His Name JESUS." (Matthew 1:20-25)

So you know, this is the same Name the scriptures reference as the Cornerstone -- which (as Jesus states) the builders reject. (Isaiah 28:16) The same Name which Peter identifies as the Christ. (Acts 2:36) The same Name which is the ONLY NAME whereby we must be saved. (Acts 4:12) The same Name which is above every other name. (Philippians 2:9) The Name which the authorities in early church days forbid the apostles from preaching. The One and Only Name given by the angel of the Lord, when declaring "peace and good will to all!" 

"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 grows unto an holy temple in the Lord." (Ephesians 2:20)

"Wherefore also it is contained in the scripture, "Behold, I lay in Sion a chief corner stone, elect, precious: and he that believes on Him shall not be confounded. Unto you therefore which believe [He is] precious: but unto them which be disobedient, the stone which the builders disallowed, the same is made the Head of the corner," (I Peter 2:6-7)

"And [Jesus] 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? " (Luke 20:17)

"And have ye not read this scripture; The stone which the builders rejected is become the head of the corner:" (Mark 12:10)

"This is the stone which was set at nought of you builders, which is become the head of the corner." (Acts 4:11)

Jesus saith unto them, "Did ye never read in the scriptures -- "The stone which the builders rejected, the same is become the head of the corner." This is the Lord’s doing, and it is marvellous in our eyes?" (Matthew 21:42)

But too many who profess to believe are on the outside of the body of Christ church looking in. Peering inside the windows for a glimpse of the peace and joy that comes from the Comforter, the Holy Ghost -- the Spirit of the Lord our God dwelling within --- who have decided to reject the Name of JESUS, even though the scriptures are clear that everything we do in both word or deed must be in the Name of JESUS. 

Nevertheless, those who understand the message Peter (standing with the eleven) gave on the day of Pentecost are (like apostle Paul) so thankful to "serve 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 publicly, 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 ..." (Acts 20:23)

Stand in the offering plate.

For By One Spirit Are We All Baptized Into One Body - Part 2356

"Now concerning spiritual gifts, brethren, I would not have you ignorant. Ye know that ye were Gentiles, carried away unto these dumb idols, even as ye were led. Wherefore I give you to understand, that no man speaking by the Spirit of God calls Jesus accursed: and that no man can say that Jesus is the Lord, but by the Holy Ghost. ..." (I Corinthians 12:1-3)

In previous posts, we saw that through the laying on of hands by Apostles Peter and John, the gift of the Holy Ghost was given to the believing Samaritans. Although the scriptural record does not explicitly state that the Samaritans spoke in tongues when they received the Holy Ghost, we are able to assume that because of the number of other examples cited in the Bible (whereby tongues accompanied the entrance of the Holy Ghost into believers), that the same gift was given to the Samarians too.

We should also note that this was both a momentous and eventful occasion. If we read the scriptures we note that Simon, a sorcerer was compelled to offer the apostles money, hoping to obtain the same gift as was being manifest around him. In response to Simon's request, the apostles told Simon that his money should perish with him if he thinks for a moment that money could buy the gift of the Holy Ghost.

As a sidebar to this conversation, the gifts of the Holy Ghost include the indwelling presence of the holy Spirit of Jesus, wherein He says, "I will not leave you comfortless. I will come to you." But in relation to the gift of tongues, it is a topic that has admittedly been much debated among religious institutions. Questions have come forward including whether it is reasonable in the 21st century to assume that born again believers today could still speak in tongues. Thus, become recipients of the gift of the Holy Ghost.

[As an fyi, one of the favoured verses used by institutions for opposing the gift of tongues is the scripture that states tongues will cease.]

Unfortunately, it is only this portion of the verse that they rely on. In so doing, they withhold the rest of the verse which of course mentions ‘when” tongues will cease. That is, "when that which is perfect is come." These institutions also forget that tongues were given as a sign. Not to them that believe but tongues were given as a sign to those that don’t believe.

Sadly, these neither distinguish between the tongues of men and the tongues of angels in their discussions. To many, tongues is simply another language. This may be, in part, because the modern day religious community does not want their congregations to know what occurred on the day of Pentecost. But I digress.

Continuing, it is important to recognize that he or she who speaks in an unknown tongue (whether it be tongues of men or angels, or a completely unknown tongue) is not conversing with men. No, they are speaking directly to God. The person praying is praying to God in a Spirit language. Although his or her understanding of what he or she is praying is unfruitful to them personally, or at least in their natural mind, speaking in tongues represents a pouring out of one's heart to the Lord. And, as the scriptures declare, a person who speaks in tongues will be edified; strengthened.

Put another way, in the Spirit one is speaking mysteries. Still, even though the praying believers' understanding may seem unfruitful, the praying believers are edified in spirit. For assuredly the believer rightly knows that God knows what is on their mind and in their heart when they pray. Often, the believer quietly prays in spirit and at times he or she prays also with her natural tongue of understanding.

What then is the teaching that believers who the Lord Himself has given the gift of tongues should cease? Indeed, believers ought to continue praying quietly in the Spirit until the need of the spirit rests. For God who hears and sees in secret shall reward openly. At the same time, the gifted believer should pray to receive the gift of interpretation that accompanies the gift of tongues, in order that the believer’s understanding will be nourished.

For in the Spirit, the believer speaks mysteries. Paul the apostle to the Gentiles expressed that he spoke with / in tongues more than all the ones he was addressing.

"I thank my God, I speak with tongues more than ye all: yet in the church I had rather speak five words with my understanding, that by my voice I might teach others also, than ten thousand words in an unknown tongue." (I Corinthians 14: 16-17)

As a crescendo, the scriptures also state that believers should not be forbidden to speak in tongues. How do the scriptures put it? Desire spiritual gifts because every good and perfect gift comes from Jesus, the true God as a son. The same God who Himself fathered us at Calvary.

God as a son sacrificed Himself for His children, shedding His precious holy blood so that we might know personally our Creator. The same God who became our Saviour, and who willingly bestows His gifts upon His beloved body of Christ Church. From I Corinthians 12:
"Now concerning spiritual gifts, brethren, I would not have you ignorant. Ye know that ye were Gentiles, carried away unto these dumb idols, even as ye were led. Wherefore I give you to understand, that no man speaking by the Spirit of God calls Jesus accursed: and that no man can say that Jesus is the Lord, but by the Holy Ghost.

Now there are diversities of gifts, but the same Spirit. And there are differences of administrations, but the same Lord. And there are diversities of operations, but it is the same God which works all in all. But the manifestation of the Spirit is given to every man to profit withal.

For to one is given by the Spirit the Word of wisdom; to another the Word of knowledge by the same Spirit; to another faith by the same Spirit; to another the gifts of healing by the same Spirit; to another the working of miracles; to another prophecy; to another discerning of spirits; to another divers kinds of tongues; to another the interpretation of tongues:

But all these work that One and the Selfsame Spirit, dividing to every man severally as He will.

For as the body is one, and hath many members, and all the members of that one body, being many, are one body: so also is Christ. For by One Spirit are we all baptized into one body, whether we be Jews or Gentiles, whether we be bond or free; and have been all made to drink into one Spirit." (I Corinthians 12:1-13)

Meditate on these scriptures for your edification, desirous of spiritual gifts, knowing that we are all baptized into one body, and that the Lord makes us all to drink into One Spirit -- in one accord, as were the first 3,000 souls saved on the day of Pentecost. (Acts 2:36-47)

Stand in the offering plate!