Behold, The Heavens And Earth Cannot Contain Thee, O Lord - Part 2774

"And there are also many other things which Jesus did, the which, if they should be written every one, I suppose that even the world itself could not contain the books that should be written. Amen." (John 21:25)

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

"That they should seek the Lord, if haply, they may feel after Him and find Him, though He be not far from everyone of us, for in Him we live, and move, and have our being." (Acts 17:27-28)

Jesus said, "God is Spirit." (John 4:24) And in the beginning, this same Spirit of God moved upon the face of the waters. (Genesis 1:2) Later, He asks, "Do not I fill heaven and earth?" saith the Lord. (Jeremiah 23:24) "Whither shall I go from Thy Spirit? Or whither shall I flee from Thy presence?" (Psalm 139:7-8)

Indeed, the Word explains that even the heaven and heaven of heavens cannot contain Thee -- then "how much less this house that I have builded?" (I Kings 8:27: II Chronicles 6:18)

What do these scriptures teach? That God is Spirit. He is the Father in creation that fills the heavens and heaven of heavens, omnipresent, all knowing, and wise. Moreover, God is holy. In Proverbs 1:23, God says He will pour out His Spirit unto you, making known My words unto those who seek Him with all their heart, soul, mind and strength. (Deuteronomy 6:4; Mark 12:29-31) "... until the Spirit be poured upon us from on high!" (Isaiah 32:15; Isaiah 44:3; Joel 2:28-29; Acts 2:1-4, 17-18, 33, 36-41)

"...not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to His mercy He saved us, by the washing of regeneration, and renewing of the Holy Ghost; which He shed on us abundantly through Jesus Christ our Saviour ..." (Titus 3:4-7)

But some will attest that God is invisible -- yes? Of course. In fact, Jesus tells us that no man hath seen God at any time. (John 1:18; I John 4:12) In another place, no man hath seen the Father. (John 6:46) The invisible God. (Colossians 1:15; Hebrews 11:27)

So does that mean Jesus is a separate entity from God the Father? Of course not!

"And without controversy great is the mystery of godliness: God was manifest in the flesh, justified in the Spirit, seen of angels, preached unto the Gentiles, believed on in the world, received up into glory." (I Timothy 3:16)

Jesus even clarifies, saying, "I and My Father are One!" (John 10:30) "If ye have seen Me, ye have seen the Father, and know Him." (John 14:6)

John speaks to this in the first chapter of the gospel, when he wrote. "In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God and the Word was God." (John 1:1) And the Word became flesh. (John 1:14)

The same message portrayed in Genesis 1:1: "In the beginning, God ..."

The Word then is the visible expression of God, who spoke the world into existence. Just like we are not separate beings from the word which we speak, neither is God separate from the Word which He speaks -- the same image that we are created after -- the image of God.

Thus, Jesus is the Word made flesh. (John 1:14) The same Word that was in the world and the world made by Him and yet the world knew Him not. He came unto His own and His own received Him not. (John 1:10-11)

This same Jesus "who is the image of the invisible God." (Colossians 1:15; Hebrews 1:3)

 
"... in whom the god of this world hath blinded the minds of them which believe not, lest the light of the glorious gospel of Christ, who is the image of God, should shine unto them." (II Corinthians 4:4)

As the Word of the Lord God spoke through the prophet Isaiah, "there is no God formed, neither shall there be after Me." (Isaiah 43:10) And similarly,, only God would become our Saviour, as Mary the mother of Jesus acknowledges.

"... and my spirit hath rejoiced in God my Saviour." (Luke 1:47)

"... the God of my rock; in Him will I trust: He is my shield, and the horn of my salvation, my high tower, and my refuge, my Saviour; Thou savest me from violence." (II Samuel 22:3)

The same God who appeared in visible form to Abraham in the tent. (Genesis 18:1) The same God who appeared in visible form to Moses, and to the elders of Israel. (Exodus 3:2) The same God who Jacob met face to face. (Genesis 32:22-32)

When the Word became flesh, the eternal Spirit clothed Himself in sin-prone flesh (yet without sin) so that He could bring us salvation.

"The fullness of the Godhead dwelt bodily in Christ Jesus." (Colossians 2:9)

"... as of a lamb without blemish and without spot, who verily was foreordained before the foundation of the world, but was manifest in these last times for you, who by Him do believe in God. (I Peter 1:18-21) 

"... giving thanks unto the Father, which hath made us meet to be partakers of the inheritance of the saints in light: who hath delivered us from the power of darkness, and hath translated [us] into the kingdom of hHs dear Son: in whom we have redemption through His blood, [even] the forgiveness of sins: who is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn of every creature: for by Him were all things created, that are in heaven, and that are in earth, visible and invisible, whether they be thrones, or dominions, or principalities, or powers: all things were created by Him, and for Him: and He is before all things, and by Him all things consist.

And He is the head of the body, the church: who is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead; that in all things He might have the preeminence. For it pleased [the Father] that in Him should all fulness dwell; and, having made peace through the blood of His cross, by Him to reconcile all things unto Himself; by Him, [I say], whether they be things in earth, or things in heaven." (Colossians 1:12-20)

Stand in the offering plate.

Esteeming Christ Brings Greater Riches Than All The Treasures In Egypt - Part 2773

"All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness." (II Timothy 3:16)

As the prophet declared, "... wisdom and knowledge shall be the stability of thy times, and strength of salvation: the fear of the Lord is his treasure." (Isaiah 33:16)

Thus,, "forever, O Lord, Thy Word is settled in heaven." (Psalm 119:89)

In spite of the whims of a modern day religious culture, the scriptures inform that we are not subject to parroted man-made creeds and catechisms. Rather, our counsel, knowledge and wisdom comes from the Word; line upon line, precept upon precept; knowing assuredly that God is not the author of confusion.
Interestingly, the prophet Isaiah tells us that the scriptures are so purposely arranged that only those who seek the hidden treasure will find -- even though, as the Lord states, He is not so far from us that we can't find Him.

This same message is confirmed when the Lord Jesus (in a parable) said that a wise man, upon finding treasure buried in a field willingly sells all that he has to go buy the field.

"Again, the kingdom of heaven is like unto treasure hid in a field; the which when a man hath found, he hides, and for joy thereof goeth and sells all that he hath, and buys that field." (Matthew 13:44)

Why? Because, as Jesus stated, "For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also." (Luke 12:34)

This same Jesus who said, "Seek and ye shall find; knock and the door will be opened unto you!" (Matthew 7:7; Luke 11:9) 

"And ye shall seek Me, and find [Me], when ye shall search for Me with all your heart." (Jeremiah 29:13)

Who are we seeking? To know Jesus personally as both Lord and Christ! (Acts 2:36-41)   

"For God, who commanded the light to shine out of darkness, hath shined in our hearts, to give the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ. But we have this treasure in earthen vessels, that the excellency of the power may be of God, and not of us. We are troubled on every side, yet not distressed; we are perplexed, but not in despair ..." (I Corinthians 4:6-8)

"...that their hearts might be comforted, being knit together in love, and unto all riches of the full assurance of understanding, to the acknowledgement of the mystery of God, and of the Father, and of Christ; in whom are hid all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge. And this I say, lest any man should beguile you with enticing words." (Colossians 2:2-4)

"To wit, God was in Christ reconciling the world unto Himself." (I Corinthians 5:17-19) 

This same message of wisdom throughout the scriptures. Not a prosperity gospel as false religious teachers like to preach-- that is contrary to Jesus' teaching --no man can serve two master -- but instead, that every man is given the necessities of life so that he or she can flow through the message of the good news gospel to everyone we meet. According to the measure of our faith, shall it be given unto us. This is the good counsel the Lord desires for us. And that we who profess to believe, are also willing to sell all that we have to buy that treasure in the field.

The treasure is Jesus -- King of kings and Lord of lords, Alpha and Omega, the first and the last, the beginning and the ending!

"Yea, if thou cry after knowledge and lift up thy voice for understanding; if thou seek her as silver,
and search for her as for hid treasures; then shalt thou understand the fear of the Lord, and find the knowledge of God." (Proverbs 2:3-5)

"I lead in the way of righteousness, in the midst of the paths of judgment: that I may cause those that love Me to inherit substance; and I will fill their treasures." (Proverbs 8:20-25)

"I will go before thee, and make the crooked places straight: I will break in pieces the gates of brass, and cut in sunder the bars of iron: and I will give thee the treasures of darkness, and hidden riches of secret places, that thou may know that I, the LORD, which call thee by thy name, am the God of Israel. For Jacob My servant's sake, and Israel Mine elect, I have even called thee by thy name; I have surnamed thee, though thou hast not known Me." (Isaiah 45:2-4)

So much to learn. Stand in the offering plate. 

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Keep Me True Lord Jesus; Give Us Evermore The Bread Of Life - Part 2772

Jesus said, "Search the scriptures; for in them ye think ye have eternal life: and they are they which testify of Me. I receive not honour from men. But I know you, that ye have not the love of God. I am come in My Father's name and ye receive Me not. If another shall come in his own name, him ye will receive." (John 5:39-40) 

Repeatedly, Jesus told the multitudes that followed Him that He was the Bread of Life. (John 6:35, 48, 51) That He -- Jesus -- was the Light of this world. The Living Water wherein when we taste, we will never thirst again. Throughout the good news gospels of Matthew, Mark, Luke and John, Jesus proclaimed His love for His beloved, healing the sick, restoring the broken hearted and casting out the demons responsible for tormenting those individuals who were most vulnerable. 

Jesus said, "I am the living bread which came down from heaven: if any man eat of this bread, he shall live for ever: and the bread that I will give is My flesh, for I will give for the life of the world." (John 6:51)

The Good Shepherd knew beforehand that He would have to lay down His life for His sheep. (Acts 20:28) That God Himself would have to become our Saviour, our Redeemer, who would save us from our sins. 

This then is the mystery that was in the bosom of the Father since the very beginning. The mystery of godliness-- wherein at the appointed time, God would be manifest in the flesh, and dwell among us. (I Timothy 3:16; Isaiah 9:6; Isaiah 7:14; Isaiah 42:13). 

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)

There had to be an appointed time. 

"The Holy Ghost this signifying, that the way into the holiest of all was not yet made manifest, while as the first tabernacle was yet standing ... which was a figure for the time then present, in which were offered both gifts and sacrifices that could not make him that did the service perfect as pertaining to the conscience." (Hebrews 9:8-9)

Yes, for the redemption of our sins, we would need Jesus, for He alone shall save His people from their sins. (Matthew 1:21-23) 

Even though in God's mind, the Son of God existed countless ages before He was ever born of Mary, the Son would only be revealed when the Holy Ghost said, "This day have I begotten Thee." (Psalm 2:7) 

But he religious wanted a King and were unwilling to settle for a babe born in a manger. Nevertheless, when the Jews murmured aloud, Jesus reminded them that the work of God was to believe on Him whom He hath sent. (John 6:29) Moreover, Jesus told the scribes and Pharisees that they had seen Him, - the prophesied Saviour, their salvation coming nigh to them, and yet believed not. (John 6:36)

Throughout the scriptures, we are blessed to see "those things which be not, as though they were." (Romans 4:17)  The Lamb who was lain from the foundation of the world. Grace before the world began. (Ephesians 1:4-5; I Timothy 1:9) 

"Forasmuch as ye know that ye were not redeemed with corruptible things ... but with the precious blood of Christ, as of a lamb without blemish and without spot: who verily was foreordained before the foundation of the world, but was manifest in these last times for you." (I Peter 1:18-20) 

"But when the fulness of the time was come, God sent forth His Son, made of a woman, made under the law. (Galatians 4:4; Hebrews 2:9) 

In these last days God has spoken to us by His Son -- the visible image of the invisible God-- who created all things by Jesus Christ, by whom also He made the worlds. (Hebrews 1:2; John 17:5; Ephesians 1:4-5; Ephesians 3:9) 

God clothed Himself in flesh (and yet without sin) so that you and I might have abundant life in Him. Stand in the offering plate. 

Thy Throne Is Forever And Ever; A Sceptre Of Righteousness In The Sceptre Of Thy Kingdom - Part 2772

But we see Jesus ...

"For it became Him, for whom are all things, and by whom are all things, in bringing many sons into glory to make the captain of their salvation perfect through sufferings." (Hebrews 2:10-18)

But we see Jesus who was made a little lower than the angels for the suffering of death, crowned with glory and honour; that He by the grace of God should taste death for every man. For it became Him, for whom [are] all things, and by whom [are] all things, in bringing many sons unto glory, to make the captain of their salvation perfect through sufferings.

For both He that sanctifies and they who are sanctified [are] all of one: for which cause He is not ashamed to call them brethren, saying, "I will declare Thy name unto My brethren, in the midst of the church will I sing praise unto Thee."

And again, I will put my trust in Hm. 

And again, "Behold I and the children which God hath given Me. Forasmuch then as the children are partakers of flesh and blood, He also Himself likewise took part of the same; that through death He might destroy him that had the power of death, that is, the devil; and deliver them who through fear of death were all their lifetime subject to bondage.

For verily He took not on [Him the nature of] angels; but He took on [Him] the seed of Abraham. Wherefore in all things it behoved Him to be made like unto [His] brethren, that He might be a merciful and faithful high priest in things [pertaining] to God, to make reconciliation for the sins of the people.

For in that He Himself hath suffered being tempted, He is able to succour them that are tempted.

The greatest love story ever told. Stand in the offering plate!

Blessed Is He That Shall Eat Bread In The Kingdom Of God - Part 2771

"Give, and it shall be give unto you; good measure, pressed down, and shaken together, and running over, shall men give into your bosom. For with the same measure that ye mete withal it shall be measured to you again." (Luke 6:38) 

"Jesus said, "Take heed what ye hear: with what measure ye mete, it shall be measured to you: and unto you that hear shall more be given. For he that hath, to him shall be given: and he that hath not, from him shall be taken even that which he hath." (Mark 4:24)

"And render unto our neighbours sevenfold into their bosom their reproach, wherewith they have reproached Thee, O Lord." (Psalm 79:12)

Interestingly, Jesus speaks often about a flow-through heart. Sometimes, Jesus speaks in parables. Other times, Jesus shares real life examples with His apostles, who later then flow-through the Lord Jesus' love to others. Within the body of Christ church in this current dispensation of grace, the Lord teaches us to stand in the offering plate, in accordance with the first commandment. 

That is, "Hear O Israel, the Lord thy God is One Lord. Love the Lord with all thy heart, all of thy soul, all of thy mind and all of thy strength." (Deuteronomy 6:4; Mark 12:29-31) And from His love flowing through us, we are called to love one another.

Herein, we will look at two scriptural examples. The first highlights the young lad who offered Jesus all he had to feed the multitudes on the hillside. The latter looks at a couple who sold their possession and decidedly chose to tempt the Lord, by suggesting to the believing community that the monies they received for selling a property they owned was for less than they had actually sold it for. 

The contrast between the two is telling. The young lad gave his lunch to feed the multitudes -- his own sustenance to feed the multitudes. I'm sure he knew that his small lunch of five loaves and two fishes would not be enough to feed 5,000 men, plus women and children. However, his child-like faith in the Lord Jesus motivated him share everything -- all he had -- so that others would not be without. (Acts 3:36-47) 

In reading the account, one has to wonder why the lad was the only one in the crowd of people with food. Maybe the lad witnessed Jesus' compassion for the people, and he too was moved by a Master who loved. 

So, as Jesus went forth, He saw a great multitude, and was moved with compassion toward them, and He healed the sick. And when it was evening, His disciples came to Him, saying, "This is a desert place, and the time is now past; send the multitude away, that they may go into the villages, and buy themselves victuals."  But Jesus said unto them, "They need not depart; give ye them to eat." 

But they say unto Him, "We have here but five loaves and two fishes." He said, "Bring them hither to Me."

And He commanded the multitude to sit down on the grass, and took the five loaves, and the two fishes, and looking up to heaven, He blessed, and brake, and gave the loaves to His disciples, and the disciples to the multitude. And they did all eat and were filled: and they took up of the fragments that remained twelve baskets full. And they that had eaten were about five thousand men, beside women and children." (Matthew 14:15-21)

In the end, the disciples gathered up twelve baskets of food. A good example of how the Lord Jesus multiples in a way that is very different from the world's multiplication tables. 

In contrast, we see the couple determined to keep back some of the earnings from the sale of their land. It is important to note that they did not have to donate the proceeds from their land, but chose to de os in a manner where they profited themselves. The scriptures allude to the two tempting the Spirit of the Lord. A very different account from the heart of the lad who chose to give his all. 

"But a certain man named Ananias, with Sapphira his wife sold a possession and kept back part of the price, his wife also being privy to it, and brought a certain part, and laid it at the apostle's feet. But Peter said, "Ananias, why hath satan filled thine heart to lie to the Holy Ghost and to keep back part of the price of the land? Whiles it remained, was it not thine own? And afterward it was sold, was it not in thine own power? Why hast thou conceived this thing in thine own heart? Thou hast not lied unto men but unto God." 

And Ananias hearing these words fell down and gave up the ghost and great fear came on all them that heard these things  And the young men arose, wound him up and carried him out and buried him. And it was about the space of three hours after, when his wife not knowing what was done. came in." (Acts 5:1-7) 

As we know, the same situation happened later with Sapharria his wife. with whom Ananias had agreed together tin their heart to tempt the Spirit of the Lord. The apostles made it clear -- through their questioning -- that the two had other plans in their heart, but still desired the glory that comes from giving. Had they given their all? It is clear from the above example that they did not.

Regardless of which path is chosen for our own lives, it's important to know that the Lord doesn't require our assets, but He does see the desires of our heart. 

"But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, long suffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, meekness, temperance: against such there is no law. And they that are Christ's have crucified the flesh with the affections and lusts. If we live in the Spirit, let us also walk in the Spirit. Let us not be desirous of vain glory, provoking one another; envying one another." (Galatians 5:22-26)

And let us not be weary in well doing; for in the season we shall reap, if we faint not. As we have therefore opportunity, let us do good unto all [men], especially unto them who are of the household of faith. (Galatians 6:9-10)

Stand in the offering plate. 

Because Of His Everlasting Kindness and Mercy, and Long-Suffering, Jesus Is Still Calling You Into His Fold Today! - Part 2770

Throughout the new testament gospels of Matthew, Mark, Luke and John, Jesus often speaks in parables, wherein He asks questions that force us to think outside of both current and historical societal norms. Interestingly, it is in this context that Jesus intentionally sets us apart from the world in our faith journey - so that we can increasingly become like that city on a hill for Him in everything that we do. 

In Luke 14, for example, Jesus is asking a number of questions to the lawyers and Pharisees, and when these could not respond, draws conclusions that should have changed their perspectives; transformed their minds and hearts. Indeed, toward the end of the chapter, Jesus says to them, "Salt is good: but if the salt have lost its savour, wherewith shall it be seasoned? It is neither fit for the land, nor yet for the dunghill; [but] men cast it out. He that hath ears to hear, let him hear." (Luke 14:28-35)

But we are getting ahead of ourselves here. First, the context. Herein, Jesus has went into the house of one of the chief Pharisees to eat bread on the sabbath day, and when He did, the lawyers and Pharisees watched Him. And behold there was a certain man before Him which had the dropsy. So Jesus asks the lawyers and Pharisees, "Is it lawful to heal on the sabbath day?" But they did not respond.

Not surprisingly, Jesus heals the man, saying to the Pharisees, "Which of you shall have an ass or an ox fallen into a pit, and will not straightway pull him out on the sabbath day?" Note that they did not have an answer to these things. (Luke 14:1-6) 

Jesus does not stop there. He then asks about those who are bidden to a wedding feast -- eventually concluding that whosoever exalts himself shall be abased; and he that humbles himself shall be exalted. In this example, Jesus is offering an invitation that is outside the norm, and one that the Pharisees would not understand. That is, when ye make a dinner or supper, we are not to call upon our friends, or brethren, or kinsmen, or rich neighbour to attend -- because these all have the means to call you back and repay you for your kindness. To offer recompense for your kindness.

Instead,  Jesus is instructing those of us who believe in Him by faith, and have taken on His precious, holy Name in water baptism to be different. That when we make a feast, we should be calling the poor, the maimed, the lame, the blind, and that, when we do, we shall be blessed. Let's read Jesus' instructions here again -- specifically from His Word.

Jesus said, "But when thou make a feast, call the poor, the maimed, the lame, the blind; and THOU SHALT BE BLESSED, for they cannot recompense thee; for thou shalt be recompensed at the resurrection of the just." (Luke 14:14) 

How many are now turning the page? How many have said that these instructions are just for the lawyers and Pharisees? Or for that particular moment in time -- when Jesus walked this earth? 

What happens next? 

"And when one of them sat at meat with Him heard these things, he said unto them, "Blessed is he that shall eat bread in the kingdom of God." Then said He unto him, "A certain man made a great supper, and bade many; and sent His servant at supper time to say to them that were bidden, "Come, for all things are now ready;."

And they all with one consent began to make excuses. One said, "I have bought a piece of ground, and I must needs go and see it: I pray thee have me excused." And the second, "I have bought five yoke of oxen and I go to prove them, I pray thee have me excused." And another, "I married a wife, and therefore I cannot come." (Luke 14:18-20)

The servant comes back and shows his Lord these things -- the people's excuses for not being able to attend. [Please note that the reason that I capitalize the L in Lord is because Jesus is speaking from His own perspective here.]

What does the Master of the house do? He asks His servant to go out quickly into the streets and lanes of the city and bring in hither the poor, and the maimed, and the halt, and the blind. And the servant said, "Lord, it is done as Thou commanded, and yet there is room." And the Lord said unto the servant, "Go out into the highways and hedges, and COMPEL them to come in, that My house may be filled. For I say unto you -- that none of those men which were bidden shall taste of My supper." (Luke 14:21-24)

Note what happens -- then drew unto Him all the publicans and sinners for to hear Him. All the while, the Pharisees and scribes murmured, saying, "This man receives sinners and eats with them." Jesus goes on to speak in numerous parables -- a good read -- about the parable of the lost sheep, the lost piece of silver, the lost son, and then the unrighteous steward. (Luke 14-15-16) 

Throughout the scriptures, we are encouraged to understand that no weapon formed against His anointed, His blessed body of Christ church -- can prosper. And that, also, this same Jesus has gone to prepare a place for us, and He will come again -- "and receive you unto Myself; that where I AM, there ye may be also. And whither I go ye know, and the way ye know." (John 14:3-4)

Don't ever lose that first love that we had for the Lord Jesus, when we first came to Him -- for He is still inviting those who are lost to come to His wedding feast -- even in the midst of such turmoil -- or as the world suggests -- living in unprecedented times -- but the Lord, well, He knows our hearts, and He is forever stretching out His hands so that we might find abundant life in Him. 

Stand in the offering plate.

 

The New Testament Is Not An Addendum To The Old Covenant - Part 2769

"I will pour out My Spirit upon all flesh" saith the Lord, and as a consequence your sons and your daughters shall prophesy. Similarly, your old men shall dream dreams and upon my servants and upon my handmaidens, I will pour out of My Spirit. So the question is this. Have you received the Holy Ghost since you exercised your faith towards the name of the Lord JESUS? [If you have not received the promised Holy Ghost according to the scriptures, then why not?]

This was a question the apostles asked in Acts 19:

"And it came to pass, that, while Apollos was at Corinth, Paul having passed through the upper coasts came to Ephesus: and finding certain disciples, he said unto them, "Have ye received the Holy Ghost since ye believed?" And they said unto him, "We have not so much as heard whether there be any Holy Ghost." And he said unto them, "Unto what then were ye baptized?" And they said, "Unto John’s baptism." Then said Paul, "John verily baptized with the baptism of repentance, saying unto the people, that they should believe on Him which should come after him, that is, on Christ Jesus." When they heard this, they were baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus." (Acts 19:1-5) 

Why? Because these disciples wanted to receive the truth with glad hearts. Thus, when Paul spoke to them about receiving the Holy Ghost, these desired more. It is for this reason they willingly were baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus, because they too wanted to be clothed in the righteousness of the Lord Jesus. 

But there is more. These disciples already knew there is only One Lord! That there is only One Faith, and only One Baptism. This is the shortened version of confession of the faith that the scriptures render. In this context then, we (as did the disciples in the example above) ought to examine ourselves to see whether we are earnestly contending for this confession of faith. This confession of our faith that was once, and only once delivered from JESUS to us by His holy Spirit.

Moreover, the ministry of His Spirit declares that if any man has not the Spirit of JESUS the Christ then that person has not as yet accepted redemption nor has he or she obeyed the opening tongue spoken ministry of the Holy Ghost as recorded in Acts chapter two. Paul in Galatians declared, "Who has bewitched you that you not obey the truth?" Evidently you started out in looking at and believing in only JESUS alone! You were doing so well hungering for more of God with singleness of heart. What happened?

Well, in some cases you may have met a religious person who had church-ianity but had never experienced the free redemption that Christianity offers. What they did not tell you is that the Old Covenant is not the New Testament. Neither is the New Testament an addendum to the Old Covenant. The Old Testament is a covenant of works while the New Testament is intended to be a testament of love and grace neither of which are dependant on you.

Another way of looking at the differences is that in the old testament, the laws (commandments) were physical. In the new testament, the laws are written in our hearts. The law in the old physical circumcision. In the new testament, our relationship with the Lord Jesus if founded through circumcision of the heart.

Further, God in the New Testament redeems to Himself a people who previously were not a people at all. The New Testament was necessary because God walked away from the former Covenant when those He had covenanted with had walked out from the Old Covenant demands. But this New Covenant is a Covenant between God who is Spirit and God Himself as a Son. This New Covenant was a ‘God In Christ Covenant.' Most of all, it involved the death of the testator - JESUS.

We as believers then are the benefactors of all contained in that everlasting Covenant of God in Christ. We as believers do not have a Covenant. Rather, we are the recipients of all that JESUS was heir to. All of JESUS the Christ inheritance has been bequeathed to us as HIs LAST WILL and TESTAMENT. One does not work for an inheritance. No, an inheritance is considered a gift!

Is it any wonder that the Apostle Paul said to the Galatians, "My labour that I have bestowed upon you - was it all in vain?" You started out well, but now you are endeavouring to work for salvation. Let me remind you says Paul that Christ died for all of our sins. Christ died for yesterday's sin, today's sin and even tomorrow’s sin.

This is why JESUS was raised from the grave -- for our justification! When Jesus ascended to Heaven, JESUS SAT down. So why are you still working for your salvation? Admittedly, you may work because you have salvation, but we do NOT work to obtain salvation. Salvation is the free gift Of God!

If you've been led astray by a modern day religious culture, start afresh. Read Acts 2 and do as the Holy Ghost commanded. As for me and my house, we will by God’s grace serve none other than the God who loved us and gave Himself for us. 

Peace be on the ISRAEL of God! Stand in the offering plate. 

Jesus Said, Seek Me And Ye Shall Find The Treasure! - Part 2768

"Now therefore hearken unto Me, O ye children, for blessed [are they that] keep My ways. Hear instruction, and be wise, and refuse it not. Blessed [is] the man that hears Me, watching daily at the posts of My doors -- for whoso finds Me finds life, and shall obtain favour of the Lord ... teach a wise man and he will increase in learning." (Proverbs 8:32- Proverbs 9:9)

And it came to pass the day after Jesus had healed a certain centurion's servant that Jesus went into a city called Nain. We read that many of Jesus' disciples went with Him and much people as well. Now when Jesus came nigh to the gate of the city, behold there was a dead man carried out -- the only son of his mother, a widow. As it is in death, many people accompanied the woman.

But when Jesus saw the woman, He had compassion on her, saying, "Weep not." And He came and touched her and they that bare the dead man stood still. Jesus then said, "Young man, I say unto thee, arise." And he that was dead sat up and began to speak. And He delivered him to his mother. And there came a fear on all; and they glorified God, saying, "That a great prophet is risen among us, and, that God hath visited His people." And this rumour of Jesus went forth throughout all of Judaea and throughout all the region about.

And the disciples of John the baptist showed him of all these things. And John calling two of his disciples sent them to Jesus, saying, "Art Thou He that should come? Or look we for another?" (Luke 7:19)

When the men were come unto Jesus they said, "John the baptist hath sent us unto Thee, saying, "Art Thou He that should come? Or look we for another?" (Luke 7:20)And in that same hour, He cured many of [their] infirmities, and plagues, and of evil spirits; and unto many that were blind, He gave sight. Then Jesus answering, said, "Go your way and tell John what things ye have seen and heard: how the blind see, the lame walk, the lepers are cleansed, the deaf hear, the dead are raised, to the poor the gospel is preached. And blessed is he -- whomsoever shall not be offended in Me." (Luke 7:22-23)

Note that once John's messengers had departed, Jesus began to speak further unto the people concerning John the baptist.

"What went ye out into the wilderness to see? A reed shaken with the wind? But what went ye out for to see? A man clothed in soft raiment? Behold, they which are gorgeously appareled and live delicately are in king's courts. But what went ye out to see? A prophet? Yea, I say unto you and much more than a prophet. This is [he] of whom it is written, "Behold, I send My messenger before thy face, which shall prepare thy way before Thee." (Luke 7:24-27; Isaiah 40:3; Malachi 3:1)

Then Jesus said, "For I say unto you -- among those that are born of women there is not a greater prophet than John the Baptist, but he that is least in the kingdom of God is greater than he." (Luke 7:28)

And all the people that heard [Him] and the publicans justified God, being baptized with the baptism of John but the Pharisees and lawyers ... the Pharisees and lawyers rejected the counsel of God against themselves, being not baptized of John the baptist. (Luke 7:30)

Apostle Paul later related after his conversion on the road to Damascus, "For I have not shunned to declare unto you all the counsel of God." (Acts 20:27)

But is this not what is happening within both the societal and modern day religious culture today? To the poor the good news gospel of repentance and reformation of one's heart is preached and wholly accepted as taught in His Word. In fact, His Word accepted gladly into our hearts without question. But the Pharisees and lawyers? Those which are "gorgeously appareled and live delicately in the king's courts" -- these mock the commandments of God because their souls were/are not of God. The scriptures are clear on this point. The Pharisees and lawyers chose to turn a deaf ear, preferring instead to reject the counsel of God against themselves, being not baptized of John the Baptist.

"But the Pharisees and lawyers rejected the counsel of God against themselves, being not baptized of him." (Luke 7:30) Or, if we consider the more accurate rendering in the Greek -- "rejected for themselves the counsel of God."

However, note that the Pharisees and lawyers not only rejected John's baptism unto repentance but also Jesus the Christ who stood before them. The ultimate plan of salvation that was decided before the world was even formed -- the fullness of the Godhead dwelling bodily in Christ so that we -- you and I -- could be reconciled unto Himself.

These "learned" men despised the commands of God, including the baptism of repentance which was ordained of God. In so doing, these revealed their aversion and abhorrence to the gospel of the kingdom of God and His righteousness, rejecting the very instructions of our Lord and Christ. Sadly, the salvation message of repentance and water baptism in Jesus name is still being rejected today.

Even when we know that Jesus, "through the Holy Ghost" had given commandments unto the apostles whom He had chosen, and that we are instructed to continue steadfastly in the apostles' doctrine, there are those learned -- gorgeously appareled and live delicately in the king's courts -- rejecting the counsel of God. (Acts 1:1-4; Acts 2:37-42) Even though we see the counsel of God displayed on the day of Pentecost and His church in which Jesus is the Head established, we reject the counsel of God by not aligning our teachings on repentance and baptism with those taught in the scriptures.

When the people pricked in their heart asked Peter, standing with the eleven -- "Men and brethren, what shall we do?" Peter said unto them, "Repent and be baptized EVERY ONE OF YOU in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost." (Acts 2:37-38)

The good news gospel message of the new testament. His life giving message. His love for us shown on an old rugged cross for all the world to behold. His precious blood shed so that we might have life in Him, clothed in His righteousness, and baptized into His name. We either accept His counsel gladly or we become like those Pharisees and lawyers standing in the place of Jesus -- in the king's court /man-made religion -- rejecting the counsel of God.

This is why the Lord Jesus then told the Pharisees and lawyers that rejected the counsel of God against themselves -- “Where unto then shall I liken the men of this generation? And to what are they like? They are like unto children sitting in the marketplace, and calling one to another, and saying, “We have piped unto you, and ye have not danced; we have mourned to you, and ye have not wept.” For John the Baptist came neither eating bread nor drinking wine; and ye say, “He hath a devil.” The Son of man is come eating and drinking; and ye say, “Behold a gluttonous man, and a winebibber, a friend of publicans and sinners!” (Luke 7:29-37)

Yes, wisdom is justified of all her children. He hath made this Jesus whom you crucified both Lord and Christ. (Acts 2:36)

"Now therefore hearken unto Me, O ye children, for blessed [are they that] keep My ways. Hear instruction, and be wise, and refuse it not. Blessed [is] the man that hears Me, watching daily at the posts of My doors -- for whoso finds Me finds life, and shall obtain favour of the Lord." (Proverbs 8:32- Proverbs 9:9)

Stand in the offering plate.

For The Hope Which Is Laid Up For You; Which Ye Heard Before In The Word Of The Truth Of The Gospel - Part 2767

"Hereby perceive we the love of God, because He laid down His life for us: and we ought to lay down our lives for the brethren." (I John 3:16)

Interestingly, the world is familiar with John 3:16 -- the message portrayed to those whom Jesus preached to when He walked on this world. As a reminder, John 3:16 states, "For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believes in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life." (John 3:16)

When we compare these two scriptures, one might be inclined to say they are contradictory .. for the latter verse tells us that God laid down His life for us, while the former His Son. Is there a contradiction? Of course not! How do we know? Because God is not the author of confusion. (I Corinthians 14:33) So why the difference?

Well, in the gospels, God is manifest as a son. We see this declared in another new testament 3:16 -- "And without controversy great is the mystery of godliness: God was manifest in the flesh, justified in the Spirit, seen of angels, preached unto the Gentiles, believed on in the world, received up into glory." (I Timothy 3:16) 

Emmanuel, being interpreted, God with us. (Matthew 1:21-23) 

"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) 

Indeed, when the Holy Ghost overshadowed Mary, it was so that she could bring forth a son -- the fetus called the "holy thing" by Luke the physician. This occurred only after the Holy Ghost declared, "This is My beloved Son, this day have I begotten Thee."  (Psalm 2:7; Acts 13:33; Hebrews 1:5; II Peter 1:17) And as we also know from Hebrews 9:8, the new testament could not be ushered in while the old covenant was still standing. 

"The Holy Ghost this signifying, that the way into the holiest of all was not yet made manifest, while as the first tabernacle was yet standing!" (Hebrews 9:8)

"How much more shall the blood of Christ, who through the eternal Spirit offered Himself without spot to God, purge your conscience from dead works to serve the living God? And for this cause, He is the mediator of the new testament, that by means of death, for the redemption of the transgressions that were under the first testament, they which are called might receive the promise of eternal inheritance. For where a testament is, there must also of necessity be the death of the testator. For a testament is of force after men are dead: otherwise it is of no strength at all while the testator liveth. Whereupon neither the first testament was dedicated without blood." (Hebrews 9:14-18)

So, before the foundation of the world was formed, God had already decided His plan of salvation. It was in the beginning that the Lord God decided to leave His last will and testament for His beloved church. Herein, He knew that in the new testament, His fullness of glory would dwell bodily in Christ Jesus. (Colossians 2:9; 

"For it pleased the Father that in Him should all fulness dwell ... and having made peace through the blood of the cross, by Him to reconcile all things unto Himself, by Him, I say, whether they be things inn earth or things in heaven." (Colossians 1:19-20

There was a reason Thomas called the risen Jesus "my Lord and my God!" 

And there is a reason why we too need to understand and receive Christ Jesus as our Lord God and Saviour, our all in all. (Colossians 2:6; Acts 2:36-41)

Who is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn of every creature .. for by Him were all things created that are in earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or dominions or principalities or powers -- all things were created by Him and for Him, and He is before all things, and by Him all things consist. (Colossians 1:15-17) 

Yes, Jesus -- the One and Only Head of the body of Christ church. 

Stand in the offering plate. 

In This Was Manifested The Love Of God Toward Us - Part 2766

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

"O God the Lord, the strength of my salvation." (Psalm 149:5) 

"For the Lord is a great God and a Great King above all gods." (Psalm 95:5)

In the old testament, there was never any question that there was any god other than One and Only Living God. Most certainly, there was never a God with three heads, or a triad that would lead to a teaching that this One God was divided in three persons. In the first commandment, for example (and reaffirmed by Jesus in the new testament), we understand His command to us -- "Hear O Israel, the Lord thy God is One Lord. Love the Lord with all thy heart, with all thy soul, with all thy mind and with all thy strength and love one another." (Deuteronomy 6:4; Mark 12:29-31)

Does this not explain why the Jews sought to kill Jesus -- because He not only had broken the sabbath but said also that God was His Father making Himself equal with God? (John 5:17) How does Jesus reply?

"My Father works hitherto, and I work ..." 

In other words, the timeline was established. The Father who created the world was now handing all authority over to Jesus ... when He said, "This day have I begotten Thee." Jesus said the same in Matthew 28:18 -- "All power is given unto Me in heaven and in earth .." 

All power! 

"Thine O Lord is the greatness and the power and the glory and the victory and the majesty; for all that is in the heaven and in the earth is Thine; Thine is the kingdom O Lord and Thou art exalted as Head above all." (I Chronicles 29:11)

This is why Jesus (Head of the body of Christ church) could say, "Come unto Me all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you, and learn of Me, for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For My yoke is easy and My burden is light." (Matthew 11:28-30) 

This is why Jesus said, "I am the bread of life."

Jesus said, " I am the light of the world." (John 8:12) 

Jesus said, "I am the way, the truth, and the life."

Because Jesus is the King of kings and Lord of lords, the Alpha and Omega, the first and the last, the beginning and the ending. 

Moreover, as apostle Pauls states, "But we speak the wisdom of God in a mystery, [even] the hidden wisdom, which God ordained before the world unto our glory, which none of this world knew, for had they known it, they would not have crucified the Lord of glory." (I Corinthians 2:7-8) 

This same Jesus that Peter (standing with the apostles on the day of Pentecost) declared, "This same Jesus whom ye have crucified is both Lord and Christ. (Acts 2:36)

Sadly, some stop seeking the truth upon hearing the term 'mystery' explaining that the Godhead is a mystery and therefore not intended to be understood. Clearly, these have not read I Timothy 3:16, wherein the mystery is fully explained. These have not read that Jesus Himself has said, "I and My Father are One!" (John 10:30) Or that if ye have seen Me, ye have seen the Father and know Him. (John 14:6-12)

Nevertheless, the scriptures are clear. 

"And without controversy, great is the mystery of godliness: God was manifest in the flesh, justified in the Spirit, seen of angels,  preached unto the Gentiles believed on in the world, received up into glory." (I Timothy 3:16)

When was God manifest in the flesh? 

The answer? At that moment in time, when the Lord God specifically said, "Thou art My Son; this day have I begotten Thee!" In the scriptures, this was prophesied in Psalm 2:7, and then later repeated (confirmed) in Acts 13:33, John 3:15-18, Hebrews 1:5, Hebrews 5:5, I John 4:9, I John 5:1, Revelation 1:5) 

"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)

Indeed, the same God who created the world willingly became our Saviour.  After the kindness and love of God our Saviour toward man appeared. (Titus 3:4-7; Isaiah 9:6)

And to confirm, we are told -- "Lo, I come in the volume of the book it is written of Me." (Psalm 40:8; Luke 24:44) 

Stand in the offering plate.