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Rev. Tim Hartwig, President, Bethany Lutheran Theological Seminary was preacher for this service. Revelation 1:17-18: When I saw Him (Christ), I fell at His feet as dead. But He laid His right hand on me, saying to me, “Do not be afraid; I am the First and the Last. I am He who lives, and was dead, and behold, I am alive forevermore. Amen. And I have the keys of Hades and of Death.”
Order of Service: - Prelude - This Is the Day: Soloist: This is the day the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad. This is the day the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad. Congregation: This is the day… Give thanks to the Lord for he is good, his mercy endures forever; let the house of Israel say: His mercy endures forever. / This is the day… The Lord's right hand has struck with power, the Lord's right hand is exalted; I shall not die, but live and declare the works of the Lord. / This is the day… The stone which the builders rejected has become the cornerstone. By the Lord has this been done; it is wonderful in our eyes. / This is the day… - Revelation 1:17-18: When I saw Him (Christ), I fell at His feet as dead. But He laid His right hand on me, saying to me, “Do not be afraid; I am the First and the Last. I am He who lives, and was dead, and behold, I am alive forevermore. Amen. And I have the keys of Hades and of Death.” - Devotion - Prayer - Hymn 341 - Awake, My Heart, With Gladness: vv. 1, 2, 3, 4, 6 - Blessing - Postlude Service Participants: Rev. Tim Hartwig, President, Bethany Lutheran Theological Seminary (Preacher), Allison Rygh (Singer), Rev. Prof. Dennis Marzolf (Pianist), Natalie Henning (Singer)
he New birth is not a change of habit! Though it will produce a change of habit! It "produces" a New creature! The New man, born of the Spirit! The new creature is supernaturally known, by the revelation which is found in the Word! It's a new man, born of the Spirit. It's not a reformation of the sinner, it's the birth of a saint. It's the union of God and man, enacted by the Spirit's indwelling! It's eternal life now given, it's God's eternal word bringing forth! The New birth is not about a "pardoned" sinner, it's about a new creature, sins forgiven, righteousness imputed! God now has sons, by the fact of Christ's resurrection, sons brought into glory, when Christ was born from death to life - in the resurrection. Death has got nothing on us, because Christ being raised dieth no more, even so, because we are IN CHRIST, all of Christ's accomplishment at resurrection are now ours! We are sons - IN CHRIST Christ died - We died with HimHe was buried - We were buried with Him He was raised - We were raised with Him He is seated today and we are seated with Him! This is the new creature! The New creature is perfectly identified in the Saviour's work! Christ's accomplishment at resurrection are all ours today! He gave Him (Christ) to be head over all things to the church, which is His body! Christ's accomplishment are towards the church - the family of the New Creature, the Father's family! This revelation when fully seen will give rise to men who walk in victory, who walk in power and who walk in love! Today, you and I, having believed the gospel are IN HIS WORK! Now and always ...Blessed!
April 13 2025 Sunday Your Words Matter / Week 10 / T. Stacy Hayes #findoutwhoyouare My Vision My vision is to teach the world Who They Are In Jesus Christ their Lord and Savior! To Teach them what the Bible says about them and who they have been made to be in the promises of God's Word. This changed my life years ago and completely transformed me from a person full of doubt, fear and unbelief to a strong confident Christian that knows I can do anything through Jesus Christ my Lord and Savior. And I'm determined to teach the world what God has taught and commissioned me to teach and that is His Word. That commission takes me to jails and detention centers weekly along with other open doors at many churches and ministries that are wanting to teach these important truths to the world. My podcast goes out 6 days a week to help the people I am ministering to grow in the truths that God has taught me for many years now. This podcast is free to all that want to listen and grow strong in who God has made them to be in Christ Jesus their Lord and Savior. Isaiah 53:5 Healing… Matthew 18:19 Agree with God's Word… Mark 10:29-30 100 Fold Return… Acts 10:34 God is no respecter of persons ”Whosoever transgresseth, and abideth not in the doctrine of Christ, hath not God. He that abideth in the doctrine of Christ, he hath both the Father and the Son.“ 2 John 1:9 KJV ”Anyone who wanders away from this teaching has no relationship with God. But anyone who remains in the teaching of Christ has a relationship with both the Father and the Son.“ 2 John 1:9 NLT ”Anyone who runs on ahead [of God] and does not abide in the doctrine of Christ [who is not content with what He taught] does not have God; but he who continues to live in the doctrine (teaching) of Christ [does have God], he has both the Father and the Son.“ 2 John 1:9 AMPC ”for in him we live, and move, and have our being; as certain also of your own poets have said, For we are also his offspring.“ Acts 17:28 KJV ”For in him we live and move and exist. As some of your own poets have said, ‘We are his offspring.'“ Acts of the Apostles 17:28 NLT ”For in Him we live and move and have our being; as even some of your [own] poets have said, For we are also His offspring.“ Acts 17:28 AMPC ”In him was life; and the life was the light of men.“ John 1:4 KJV ”The Word gave life to everything that was created, and his life brought light to everyone.“ John 1:4 NLT ”In Him was Life, and the Life was the Light of men.“ John 1:4 AMPC ”that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have eternal life. For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.“ John 3:15-16 KJV ”so that everyone who believes in him will have eternal life. “For this is how God loved the world: He gave his one and only Son, so that everyone who believes in him will not perish but have eternal life.“ John 3:15-16 NLT ”In order that everyone who believes in Him [who cleaves to Him, trusts Him, and relies on Him] may not perish, but have eternal life and [actually] live forever! For God so greatly loved and dearly prized the world that He [even] gave up His only begotten (unique) Son, so that whoever believes in (trusts in, clings to, relies on) Him shall not perish (come to destruction, be lost) but have eternal (everlasting) life.“ John 3:15-16 AMPC ”For all the promises of God in him are yea, and in him Amen, unto the glory of God by us.“ 2 Corinthians 1:20 KJV ”For all of God's promises have been fulfilled in Christ with a resounding “Yes!” And through Christ, our “Amen” (which means “Yes”) ascends to God for his glory.“ 2 Corinthians 1:20 NLT ”For as many as are the promises of God, they all find their Yes [answer] in Him [Christ]. For this reason we also utter the Amen (so be it) to God through Him [in His Person and by His agency] to the glory of God.“ 2 Corinthians 1:20 AMPC Romans 10:9-10 Salvation… Romans 10:17 Faith in God comes from hearing His Word… Matthew 11:28-30 Jesus'Yoke is Easy… John 3:16 God gave Jesus to pay for our Salvation… God Loves The abortion dr As Much As He Loves The Babies They Are Killing… Philippians 12:2 Work out your own Salvation… Romans 8:1 No condemnation in Jesus Christ our Lord and Savior… Luke Chapter 15 The Story Of The Prodigal Son… Philippians 4:19 God will supply all your needs let Him… Romans 4:20 Don't Stagger at What God Is Saying In His Word… John 15:5 We can't do anything aside from Jesus Christ our Lord and Savior… 2 Corinthians 5:17 We are new creatures in Jesus Christ our Lord and Savior… 2 Corinthians 5:21 We are The Righteousness of God In Jesus Christ our Lord and Savior… Mark 10:29-30 100 Fold Return… Ephesians 2:8 We are Saved by Grace through Faith in Jesus Christ our Lord and Savior… Believe God's Word Above All Opinions God Loves The abortion dr's As Much As He Loves The Babies They Are Killing… Mark 10:29-30 100 Fold Return… Share This Podcast On Your Social Media… Website https://the-prodigalson.com Email tstacyhayes@gmail.com YouVersion Bible App https://my.bible.comi iOS App https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/prodigal-son/id1450529518?mt=8 … Android App https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=tv.wizzard.android.prodical Social Media https://www.facebook.com/The-Prodigal-SON-209069136315959/ https://www.facebook.com/noreligion1511/ https://twitter.com/noreligion1511 https://www.instagram.com/noreligion1511/ https://m.youtube.com/channel/UCPx4s1CLkSYef6mp4dSuU4w/featured
Order of Service: - Prelude - Hymn 376 - Rejoice, the Lord is King: vv. 1 - 3 - Revelation 1:17-18: When I saw Him (Christ), I fell at His feet as dead. But He laid His right hand on me, saying to me, “Do not be afraid; I am the First and the Last. I am He who lives, and was dead, and behold, I am alive forevermore. Amen. And I have the keys of Hades and of Death.” - Devotion - Prayer - Hymn 376 - Rejoice, the Lord is King: vv. 4, 5 - Blessing - Postlude Service Participants: Prof. Tom Rank (Preacher), Laura Matzke (Organist)
Prof. Tom Rank was preacher for this service. Revelation 1:17-18: When I saw Him (Christ), I fell at His feet as dead. But He laid His right hand on me, saying to me, “Do not be afraid; I am the First and the Last. I am He who lives, and was dead, and behold, I am alive forevermore. Amen. And I have the keys of Hades and of Death.”
Prof. Tom Rank was preacher for this service. Revelation 1:17-18: When I saw Him (Christ), I fell at His feet as dead. But He laid His right hand on me, saying to me, “Do not be afraid; I am the First and the Last. I am He who lives, and was dead, and behold, I am alive forevermore. Amen. And I have the keys of Hades and of Death.”
Order of Service: - Prelude - Hymn 376 - Rejoice, the Lord is King: vv. 1 - 3 - Revelation 1:17-18: When I saw Him (Christ), I fell at His feet as dead. But He laid His right hand on me, saying to me, “Do not be afraid; I am the First and the Last. I am He who lives, and was dead, and behold, I am alive forevermore. Amen. And I have the keys of Hades and of Death.” - Devotion - Prayer - Hymn 376 - Rejoice, the Lord is King: vv. 4, 5 - Blessing - Postlude Service Participants: Prof. Tom Rank (Preacher), Laura Matzke (Organist)
Order of Service: - Prelude - Hymn 376 - Rejoice, the Lord is King: vv. 1 - 3 - Revelation 1:17-18: When I saw Him (Christ), I fell at His feet as dead. But He laid His right hand on me, saying to me, “Do not be afraid; I am the First and the Last. I am He who lives, and was dead, and behold, I am alive forevermore. Amen. And I have the keys of Hades and of Death.” - Devotion - Prayer - Hymn 376 - Rejoice, the Lord is King: vv. 4, 5 - Blessing - Postlude Service Participants: Prof. Tom Rank (Preacher), Laura Matzke (Organist)
June 23 2024 Sunday Week 08 / Your Place In Him / T. Stacy Hayes #findoutwhoyouare My Vision My vision is to teach the world Who They Are In Jesus Christ their Lord and Savior! To Teach them what the Bible says about them and who they have been made to be in the promises of God's Word. This changed my life years ago and completely transformed me from a person full of doubt, fear and unbelief to a strong confident Christian that knows I can do anything through Jesus Christ my Lord and Savior. And I'm determined to teach the world what God has taught and commissioned me to teach and that is His Word. That commission takes me to jails and detention centers weekly along with other open doors at many churches and ministries that are wanting to teach these important truths to the world. My podcast goes out 6 days a week to help the people I am ministering to grow in the truths that God has taught me for many years now. This podcast is free to all that want to listen and grow strong in who God has made them to be in Christ Jesus their Lord and Savior. Isaiah 53:5 Healing… Matthew 18:19 Agree with God's Word… Mark 10:29-30 100 Fold Return… Acts 10:34 God is no respecter of persons… The Biggest Desire In The World Today Is The Desire For Freedom ”Whosoever transgresseth, and abideth not in the doctrine of Christ, hath not God. He that abideth in the doctrine of Christ, he hath both the Father and the Son.“ 2 John 1:9 KJV ”Anyone who wanders away from this teaching has no relationship with God. But anyone who remains in the teaching of Christ has a relationship with both the Father and the Son.“ 2 John 1:9 NLT ”Anyone who runs on ahead [of God] and does not abide in the doctrine of Christ [who is not content with what He taught] does not have God; but he who continues to live in the doctrine (teaching) of Christ [does have God], he has both the Father and the Son.“ 2 John 1:9 AMPC ”for in him we live, and move, and have our being; as certain also of your own poets have said, For we are also his offspring.“ Acts 17:28 KJV ”For in him we live and move and exist. As some of your own poets have said, ‘We are his offspring.'“ Acts of the Apostles 17:28 NLT ”For in Him we live and move and have our being; as even some of your [own] poets have said, For we are also His offspring.“ Acts 17:28 AMPC ”In him was life; and the life was the light of men.“ John 1:4 KJV ”The Word gave life to everything that was created, and his life brought light to everyone.“ John 1:4 NLT ”In Him was Life, and the Life was the Light of men.“ John 1:4 AMPC ”that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have eternal life. For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.“ John 3:15-16 KJV ”so that everyone who believes in him will have eternal life. “For this is how God loved the world: He gave his one and only Son, so that everyone who believes in him will not perish but have eternal life.“ John 3:15-16 NLT ”In order that everyone who believes in Him [who cleaves to Him, trusts Him, and relies on Him] may not perish, but have eternal life and [actually] live forever! For God so greatly loved and dearly prized the world that He [even] gave up His only begotten (unique) Son, so that whoever believes in (trusts in, clings to, relies on) Him shall not perish (come to destruction, be lost) but have eternal (everlasting) life.“ John 3:15-16 AMPC ”For all the promises of God in him are yea, and in him Amen, unto the glory of God by us.“ 2 Corinthians 1:20 KJV ”For all of God's promises have been fulfilled in Christ with a resounding “Yes!” And through Christ, our “Amen” (which means “Yes”) ascends to God for his glory.“ 2 Corinthians 1:20 NLT ”For as many as are the promises of God, they all find their Yes [answer] in Him [Christ]. For this reason we also utter the Amen (so be it) to God through Him [in His Person and by His agency] to the glory of God.“ 2 Corinthians 1:20 AMPC Romans 10:9-10 Salvation… Romans 10:17 Faith in God comes from hearing His Word… Matthew 11:28-30 Jesus'Yoke is Easy… John 3:16 God gave Jesus to pay for our Salvation… God Loves The abortion dr As Much As He Loves The Babies They Are Killing… Philippians 12:2 Work out your own Salvation… Romans 8:1 No condemnation in Jesus Christ our Lord and Savior… Luke Chapter 15 The Story Of The Prodigal Son… Philippians 4:19 God will supply all your needs let Him… Romans 4:20 Don't Stagger at What God Is Saying In His Word… John 15:5 We can't do anything aside from Jesus Christ our Lord and Savior… 2 Corinthians 5:17 We are new creatures in Jesus Christ our Lord and Savior… 2 Corinthians 5:21 We are The Righteousness of God In Jesus Christ our Lord and Savior… Mark 10:29-30 100 Fold Return… Ephesians 2:8 We are Saved by Grace through Faith in Jesus Christ our Lord and Savior… Believe God's Word Above All Opinions God Loves The abortion dr's As Much As He Loves The Babies They Are Killing… Mark 10:29-30 100 Fold Return… Share This Podcast On Your Social Media… Website https://the-prodigalson.com Email tstacyhayes@gmail.com YouVersion Bible App https://my.bible.comi iOS App https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/prodigal-son/id1450529518?mt=8 … Android App https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=tv.wizzard.android.prodical Social Media https://www.facebook.com/The-Prodigal-SON-209069136315959/ https://www.facebook.com/noreligion1511/ https://twitter.com/noreligion1511 https://www.instagram.com/noreligion1511/ https://m.youtube.com/channel/UCPx4s1CLkSYef6mp4dSuU4w/featured
Order of Service: - Prelude - Hymn 356 - The Day of Resurrection - The Versicles (pp. 109-110) - Revelation 1:17-18: When I saw Him (Christ), I fell at His feet as dead. But He laid His right hand on me, saying to me, “Do not be afraid; I am the First and the Last. I am He who lives, and was dead, and behold, I am alive forevermore. Amen. And I have the keys of Hades and of Death.” - Devotion - The Kyrie (Lord have mercy) (pp. 116-117) - The Lord's Prayer (p. 117) - The Collect (pp. 118-119) - Hymn 354 - Like the Golden Sun Ascending: vv. 1, 2, 6 - Postlude Service Participants: Prof. Tom Rank (Preacher), Laura Matzke (Organist)
Prof. Tom Rank was preacher for this service. Revelation 1:17-18: When I saw Him (Christ), I fell at His feet as dead. But He laid His right hand on me, saying to me, “Do not be afraid; I am the First and the Last. I am He who lives, and was dead, and behold, I am alive forevermore. Amen. And I have the keys of Hades and of Death.”
Prof. Tom Rank was preacher for this service. Revelation 1:17-18: When I saw Him (Christ), I fell at His feet as dead. But He laid His right hand on me, saying to me, “Do not be afraid; I am the First and the Last. I am He who lives, and was dead, and behold, I am alive forevermore. Amen. And I have the keys of Hades and of Death.”
Order of Service: - Prelude - Hymn 356 - The Day of Resurrection - The Versicles (pp. 109-110) - Revelation 1:17-18: When I saw Him (Christ), I fell at His feet as dead. But He laid His right hand on me, saying to me, “Do not be afraid; I am the First and the Last. I am He who lives, and was dead, and behold, I am alive forevermore. Amen. And I have the keys of Hades and of Death.” - Devotion - The Kyrie (Lord have mercy) (pp. 116-117) - The Lord's Prayer (p. 117) - The Collect (pp. 118-119) - Hymn 354 - Like the Golden Sun Ascending: vv. 1, 2, 6 - Postlude Service Participants: Prof. Tom Rank (Preacher), Laura Matzke (Organist)
Order of Service: - Prelude - Hymn 356 - The Day of Resurrection - The Versicles (pp. 109-110) - Revelation 1:17-18: When I saw Him (Christ), I fell at His feet as dead. But He laid His right hand on me, saying to me, “Do not be afraid; I am the First and the Last. I am He who lives, and was dead, and behold, I am alive forevermore. Amen. And I have the keys of Hades and of Death.” - Devotion - The Kyrie (Lord have mercy) (pp. 116-117) - The Lord's Prayer (p. 117) - The Collect (pp. 118-119) - Hymn 354 - Like the Golden Sun Ascending: vv. 1, 2, 6 - Postlude Service Participants: Prof. Tom Rank (Preacher), Laura Matzke (Organist)
Merry Christmas and Happy New Year! As we celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ, have you ever wondered why we call Him "Christ"? That's what Dr. Chris and Robyn Bruggeman do in this episode. Enjoy!
Title: Faithful, No Matter the Cost Text: Acts 5:17-32 FCF: We often struggle remaining faithful to the Lord amid persecution. Prop: Because God has all control and authority over His church, we must remain faithful. Scripture Intro: [Slide 1] Turn in your bible to Acts chapter 5. In a moment I'll start reading in verse 17 from the NET which you can follow on page 1235 in the pew bible or in your preferred version. Today we will begin a new narrative describing the challenges of the early church. We have seen that they faced challenges from fake Christians. People who said they were believers but were discovered to have selfish and lying intentions in their hearts. As a result of the Lord's ability to see through to the thoughts and intents of the heart – the church continued to grow, now purified of those with fake faith, and the preaching of the Apostles continued in the temple courts. The church grew in popularity among the people of Jerusalem. And many more were coming to believe in Jesus and were received into the church. But there is a loose end from a previous narrative that will come calling in this text. These apostles were commanded to not preach in the name of Jesus. And they have been doing exactly that. Now we'll see opposition to the church from the Jewish leaders. But what we might expect to be a terrifying experience threatening to crush the church, ends up being quite a comical application of Psalm 2 where God mocks those who oppose Him. Please stand with me both out of respect for and to focus on the reading of God's Word. Transition: [Slide 2] I have been parenting now for about 9 years. Waverly is coming up on 9 this February. And let me tell you something, every day is a test of patience. Some days I do really well. Other days not so well. Our primary battle at this point seems to be follow through. We give commands, commands we expect to be obeyed. After a generous amount of time, we find that those commands have not been obeyed. Sometimes not even begun. When we ask for an explanation as to why they have not done what they have been told, there seems to always be something that distracted or deterred them from obedience. Isn't that odd! It is never that they allowed themselves to be distracted or that they did not consider our commands a priority over and above their own desires. No. For some unforeseen and extenuating circumstances, they were not able to obey. Judging by your feedback and knowing my own heart I realize that this is not a defect of my children or even all children. This is, in fact, a defect of fallen mankind. We all have a propensity to allow things we desire or things we fear to keep us from obeying commands of those in authority over us. Today, we will see 12 men graced by God to overcome their own desires and fears to obey the Lord. To be faithful to Him. In this the Lord will prove something they believe about Him to be true which will be a great comfort to them as they obey no matter the cost. Let's look at verse 17. I.) God exercises sovereign control over the protection of His church, so we must remain faithful. (17-20) a. [Slide 3] 17 – Now the high priest rose up, and all those with him (that is, the religious party of the Sadducees), and they were filled with jealousy i. Again, we are reminded that the religious leadership of the Jews is securely held by a religious party who did not believe in any existence beyond the grave. They had great difficulty believing in the spiritual realm at all or in miracles in general. ii. Coming out of the previous text, we can see that all these people bringing their sick and those afflicted with unclean spirits and they were being healed – this would have caused a good deal of tension among the Sadducees. iii. As much as the gospels tend to show Jesus and His disciples opposed to the Pharisees – The book of Acts tends to show the Apostles opposed to the Sadducees. iv. Indeed, it is implied in the book of Acts that a good number of Pharisees became believers in Jesus. v. They may have struggled to apply the gospel to Gentiles, but there was an entire faction within Christianity that were of the Pharisee party in Acts 15. vi. The Pharisee party was by far the most popular party among the people. Largely because of Jewish history in the intertestamental period. This faction rose to purify certain aspects of Greek influence and dominion from Judaism. vii. But the Sadducees tended to look fondly on Greek culture and understanding. In fact, many of their doctrinal conclusions are based on Greek philosophy and culture. viii. This party, led by the high priest was filled with jealousy. ix. This word for jealousy can be understood in two ways. 1. We can understand it in that the Sadducees were jealous of the influence and the honor that is being afforded to the apostles and the church. 2. This word for jealousy could also mean zeal or religious fervor. Meaning they might not simply be angry because of the influence of the apostles but even with a desire to keep Judaism pure. For a group who believe that God has distanced Himself from the world and is not using any means to correct anything – what the apostles are preaching would directly contradict their theology. x. In reality, it may actually be both. We know the Sadducees were already not the most popular party among the Jews. Now we have another perceived “party” or “sect” in Judaism rising up – which agrees far more with theology of the Pharisees than with them. This means that their influence and honor among the people could dip even further. xi. So, in retaliation, and perhaps even in desperation… b. [Slide 4] 18 - They laid hands on the apostles and put them in a public jail. i. If you are thinking in your heads that this is starting to sound very similar to the narrative recorded for us in chapter 4… then you would be right. ii. In fact, many more critical commentators would say that this is a retelling of the same event. iii. However, there are some significant differences between the accounts in chapter 4 and chapter 5. We'll bring those up as we come to them. iv. Like the events of chapter 4, it seems that the apostles were thrown in jail to await their trial before the religious leadership. 1. Like in chapter 4, this may be because it was too late. The next event we will see in this narrative is during the night. 2. But Luke doesn't overtly tell us when they were arrested. They could have sat in jail for the entire day before the events that follow. v. Unlike the previous account, they are thrown into a public jail. Luke specifically calls this out. 1. In chapter 4 they were probably put in a temple jail since they were arrested by the temple guards. 2. Archeological evidence suggests that the Sanhedrin did have temporary holding cells for those who awaited trial. These cells were right on the temple mount close to where the Sanhedrin met. 3. But it seems that here Luke is indicating that they were placed in a state jail and not a religious one. Probably not on temple grounds. Why would they do this? a. First, in chapter 4, there was only Peter and John to worry about. Here, it is clear, that this is all 12 apostles. That is a lot of people to incarcerate, even if they were crammed into one cell. b. Second, in chapter 4, they could find no crime to charge the apostles with… but they did issue them a legally binding command. i. The governing body of the Jews commanded them not to teach any more in the name of Jesus. ii. They had violated this. What does that mean? iii. It means that the apostles were held in contempt of the court. This is a crime. And since they were criminals, they could be held, even in state jails. c. [Slide 5] Lastly, they did this no doubt to parade the apostles through the temple courts. i. Most likely the place of their incarceration was in the Antonia Fortress on the Northwest corner of the temple mount. ii. The way to access that fortress would have been to walk up a set of stairs (yes up from the temple mount) to get to the fortress. iii. In other words, these apostles were paraded through the temple courts and upstairs on display for everyone to see. iv. This was designed to be a public humiliation to them. c. [Slide 6] 19 – But during the night an angel of the Lord opened the doors of the prison and led them out, i. If this was indeed the Antonia Fortress there was no way that the apostles had any hope to successfully escape on their own. ii. We are told that this is an angel of the Lord. It is possible that this is THE angel of the Lord, meaning that Christ Himself led them out of the jail. However, there is no indication that this is so. In fact, if it was the risen Christ, why would Luke not specify that, as he does with Saul's conversion in chapter 9. iii. It is also possible that angel here means simply messenger. Meaning a human agent was sent to deliver the apostles safely out. However, given the dramatic irony of a spiritual being delivering the prisoners out of the hands of those who do not believe in spiritual beings… iv. It makes much more sense that this was an angel sent to rescue and command the Apostles. d. [Slide 7] 20 - And said, 20 “Go and stand in the temple courts and proclaim to the people all the words of this life.” i. The angel commands them with the authority of God to go and continue doing what they had been doing prior to their arrest. ii. To go back to the temple courts and preach to the people. iii. This effectively authenticates the position they took in chapter 4. They must obey God rather than men. God through His messenger authorizes their disobedience to their authorities' command. iv. They are told to preach “all the words of this life.” v. This is an odd expression, but not one that is so perplexing that we cannot guess its meaning. vi. They are to preach of the author of life in whom all must believe to have life eternal. They must preach and bear witness of the resurrected Christ who gives power to His people to be and do what He has called them to be and do. vii. The life they are to teach, is the New Covenant life. e. [Slide 8] Summary of the Point: We see here the summation of the teaching in Psalm 2. We see Proverbs 21:1 and Proverbs 16:9 on full display. God exercises His divine sovereignty over and above the will of the governing authorities of Jerusalem. God still holds all control and all authority. Nothing can happen to His church without it being His will for it to have happened. This is no less true today. God supernaturally and sovereignly protects His church and ensures that the gospel message will continue to go forth. Transition: [Slide 9 (blank)] So, with the understanding that God is the one who can sovereignly step in and protect His church, what is the response from the apostles? How do they react to God's command being issued to go back and do exactly what they were arrested for? II.) God demands continued obedience from His church despite the cost, we must remain faithful. (21-26) a. [Slide 10] 21a –When they heard this, they entered the temple courts at daybreak and began teaching. i. The apostles wasted no time. ii. [Slide 11] It is possible that the angel led them out of the Antonia Fortress right onto the temple mount, but given the fact that they would have to enter the temple courts, it is much more likely that they were released out the front door of the prison to the North of the temple mount. iii. No doubt the timing of this was in the early morning, perhaps very close to dawn. iv. If they were released before dawn, why would they wait to enter until dawn? v. The gates to the temple mount were unlocked just prior to the sacrifices at dawn. Until then, no one would be permitted on the temple mount. Levitical guards would have made sure of this. vi. So, the apostles, at the earliest possible time, obeyed the Word of the Lord given through an angel of the Lord. vii. At dawn, they began to preach and teach in the name of Jesus. Presumably in Solomon's Portico. b. [Slide 12] 21b – Now when the high priest and those who were with him arrived, they summoned the Sanhedrin – that is, the whole high council of the Israelites – and sent to the jail to have the apostles brought before them. i. Did you know that God has a sense of humor? ii. Without trivializing or looking at God sacrilegiously, this entire narrative is absolutely hysterical. iii. The Sanhedrin would have no doubt arrived to the temple mount before dawn so they could prepare themselves for the events of the day. iv. [Slide 13] Imagine the scene. As they are walking into their chambers (the red line) and the rest come to meet for the trial, the apostles are being led out the front door of the fortress (the yellow line). v. [Slide 14] Here it is again from another angle. vi. We've seen the cartoons where Jerry is trying to find Tom or Sylvester is trying to get to Tweedie bird, or the coyote the road runner. And they are only seconds behind them, but never able to find them. vii. That is what is happening here! viii. They send for the apostles so they can proceed with their trial. ix. [Slide 15] The guards exit the chamber of hewn stone traveling west(red line)… in the opposite direction of where the apostles are headed, and arrive at the north western side of the temple mount, heading up the stairs into the Antonia Fortress, probably around the same time that the apostles enter into Solomon's portico! c. [Slide 16] 22-23 – But the officers who came for them did not find them in the prison, so they returned and reported, 23 “We found the jail locked securely and the guards standing at the doors, but when we opened them, we found no one inside.” i. Can you imagine their dismay? ii. The temple guards walk up to the cell they were placed in. The prison guards are still there. iii. A quick conversation about taking the prisoners for their trial. iv. A guard flippantly remarks about how quiet they've been and how they must still be asleep. v. A guard opens the door and they walk in. vi. So… where are they? vii. You had 12 guys in here! Where did they go? viii. I don't know! We've been here all night! ix. [Slide 17] And then to have to go back down the stairs, unable to see the gathering of people under the Portico of Solomon. They approach the chamber of hewn stone where the Sanhedrin meet and never see the apostles who no doubt were preaching at the very moment they entered the temple courts! d. [Slide 18] 24 – Now when the commander of the temple guard and the chief priest heard this report, they were greatly puzzled concerning it, wondering what this could be. i. No kidding, right? ii. How can you put 12 grown men under lock and key with armed guards in a state prison, leave them overnight, and come back the next day with not one of them still there? iii. Such a story stretches the imagination of what is possible by natural means. iv. Even if the prison had a flaw that could have been exploited to allow for them to escape, it is very unlikely that the apostles would have discovered it in the short time they were there. v. And no matter what that flaw would be, you would still have to get 12 men to exploit it without anyone seeing them. vi. One wonders that if such a flaw existed, how it could have gone unnoticed by the authorities. vii. The most believable version is what Luke has recorded. A miracle from the Lord. Supernatural intervention. e. [Slide 19] 25 – But someone came and reported to them, “Look! The men you put in prison are standing in the temple courts and teaching the people!” i. We are not told how much time elapses. ii. It could have been only a few minutes or several hours. iii. Eventually, someone reports to the Sanhedrin that the very men they were looking for, were only a few feet away on the temple mount, preaching to the people in the name of Jesus. iv. HOW EMBARASING! 1. First it isn't even them that discovers this! Someone from outside of the Sanhedrin has to clue them in. 2. Second, they are right under their noses. A mere 1000 feet or less from where the Sanhedrin sat. 3. Thirdly, they were doing exactly what they got arrested for the day before! The exact thing they were supposed to be on trial for, right at this very moment. 4. And last, but not least, do you remember how it was that the apostles were arrested and put in jail the day before? Was it not a public humiliation to march them to the fortress on the corner of the temple mount. And now… here they are preaching again. v. The Sanhedrin, and especially the Sadducees and the high priest, looked like absolute fools in this whole debacle. f. [Slide 20] 26 – Then the commander of the temple guard went with the officers and brought the apostles without the use of force (for they were afraid of being stoned by the people). i. So, the Sanhedrin send the temple guard out with his officers to bring the apostles into the Chamber of hewn stone. ii. We are told that these guards did not use force to do this. They feared the reaction of the people – because as we were told last week, the general opinion of the people of Jerusalem was, that these men were sent from God. iii. Since no violence was used to bring the apostles to the court – we can reasonably assume that they came willingly. They did not themselves resist the authorities. Even though they are attempting to punish them for disobeying an unjust law. g. [Slide 21] Summary of the Point: God expects continued obedience to His commands despite difficulties and setbacks. Most prisoners who escape from prison do not immediately go back to the place they committed their crime and continue to do the exact same thing. Most escapees attempt to flee and set up a new life somewhere else. Rather than fleeing Jerusalem – the apostles obeyed the Word of the Lord and preached the gospel in the temple courts. And we see God's supernatural hand guiding them to do this right under the noses of those who arrested them in the first place. No matter the difficulties, no matter the abuse, no matter the injustice, we are not permitted by God to set aside His laws. Even if there is heavy cost, we must continue to obey the Lord in what He has given us to do. Transition: [Slide 22 (blank)] So, in spite of the risk posed to the apostles, we find God making a mockery of those who oppose His church, while they continue to obey Him – even facing heavy penalty for doing so. But how will this be resolved? What is God's endgame here? He wants His people to obey, but to what end? III.) God expects His church to preach the gospel to all men despite the cost, so we must remain faithful. (27-32) a. [Slide 23] 27-28 – When they had brought them, they stood them before the council, and the high priest questioned them, 28 saying, “We gave you strict orders not to teach in this name. Look, you have filled Jerusalem with your teaching, and you intend to bring this man's blood on us!” i. Here is their trial. ii. The high priest questions them. His line of questioning is simple. iii. We told you to do something and you disobeyed. iv. The results are just as we feared, your teaching is spreading in Jerusalem and you are rousing the crowd to treat us like we have murdered a blasphemer. v. The high priest is trying to scare them straight. No one in Jerusalem, except the zealots, want rebellion. Any kind of infighting, revolt or uprising would be quickly put down by the Roman authorities. Even if it was Jews fighting Jews. vi. However, in this line of questioning the high priest tips his hand. He appears to be concerned about religious purity but in reality, he admits what his real fears are. vii. They are losing the respect of the people. The people are starting to believe the apostles that the man named Jesus was murdered by the Sanhedrin. And the high priest accuses them of doing this on purpose. Specifically, to undermine their authority as righteous men of God. b. [Slide 24] 29 – But Peter and the apostles replied, “We must obey God rather than people. i. Peter wishes to clarify their position and answer every accusation. ii. Although much of what the high priest says is true, it is without necessary nuance. iii. First, what was commanded of the apostles before was an unjust command that they could not possibly obey. And they told them that they couldn't obey it. Why? Because God commanded them something directly contradictory. iv. So much so that God actually commanded them again through an angelic messenger. Peter doesn't bring that up because more than half the council doesn't believe in angels. v. But the first element of the Apostles' response is that they disobeyed only because they had to. Not because they desired to be contentious or to lead a revolution or to make the Sanhedrin look bad. vi. Make no mistake there are two trials here. The Sanhedrin is on trial too. vii. Peter invalidates the first charge, pointing out that they lacked the authority to create their ungodly law. c. [Slide 25] 30 – The God of our forefathers raised up Jesus, whom you seized and killed by hanging Him on a tree. i. And while it is true that the apostles are teaching that the Sanhedrin did seize and kill Jesus by hanging him on a tree and treating Him as if He was cursed… ii. God raised Him up. The same God we all share! The God of all our forefathers. iii. Your God – Mr. High Priest – raised this man up. iv. That should tell you that even though you are guilty of killing him, we do not wish to teach this to turn the public against you… but because it is true. v. Peter even taught before that they did this in ignorance. vi. In other words, Peter is teaching that they murdered Jesus but not to destroy the reputation of the council… but rather that the council may be saved through Christ. d. [Slide 26] 31 – God exalted Him to His right hand as Leader and Savior, to give repentance to Israel and forgiveness of sins. i. Not only did God raise up the one you killed, but He exalted Him to His right hand – a place of honor. ii. In that place God has given Him a new position. He is leader. He is Lord. He is the Authority and He is the Founder of the New Covenant. iii. He is firstborn among many brothers. He is above every Jew and Gentile. iv. But not only that… He is the Savior. v. He has made it possible for repentance and forgiveness to be gifted, granted to Israel. vi. It is true that we are filling Jerusalem with this teaching. But we are not filling Jerusalem with harmful teaching to start a revolt or to dishonor this council. Instead, we are preaching a message of hope, love, repentance and forgiveness! vii. Even for you! viii. You might be guilty of Jesus' murder. You may have His blood on your hands. But He stands ready to forgive you, even for murdering Him. And if He is able to forgive you for that, then He is able to forgive all your sin. e. [Slide 27] 32 – And we are witnesses of these events, and so is the Holy Spirit whom God has given to those who obey Him.” i. We have seen all this with our own eyes. We risk all this because we must – not because we want to raise an army and not because we want to have you punished for killing your own Messiah. ii. We must tell what is true. iii. To do otherwise would be to deny or blaspheme the Spirit of God who also testifies to these things. iv. After all, He is the one whom God has given to all those you see who are obeying God. v. You see, Mr. High Priest, you accuse us of having earthly concerns. Of attempting to vie for power here. vi. But sir, we disobey, we preach the name of Jesus, because He is our only hope. He is the next step in true Judaism. vii. We are not sectarians with earthly concerns. We are true Jews with a Divinely approved message. A message of good news. viii. And it is good news that is available for you too! ix. We don't want vengeance for what you've done. We want you to be in Christ with us! f. [Slide 28] Summary of the Point: God expects His church to preach the gospel to all men, even to our enemies. The high priest and the rest of the Sanhedrin had grave concerns about their own reputations and the political upheaval that could come as a result of preaching such things. But Peter explains that they do not have such shallow goals. The bid for kings and kingdoms of this world is far too trivial a matter for the apostles to concern themselves with. For the Prince, the Lord, the Savior, is now seated at the right hand of God and is offering repentance and forgiveness to Israel. There is a kingdom coming that is not of this world. And that Kingdom ought to be the primary goal of every single member of God's true church. They must be busy about the business of proclaiming that that Kingdom has come. Even to those who stand in opposition. Conclusion: So, CBC, as we conclude today, we must boil down what we've learned into one doctrinal takeaway. What have we learned and how shall we live? Doctrinal Takeaway: [Slide 29] Our three points combine to give us a full understanding of how the church is to respond when it experiences opposition. God still expects His church to faithfully obey His commands and preach the gospel in spite of the opposition we may face and the cost it may demand from us. This sounds cold and heartless of God, and it would be unless God truly is in absolute control over all things. If God is indeed sovereign over, even the wills of men, as His church we can trust that whatever befalls us is part of His will for us. He is able to deliver us unscathed if He so chooses. This gives us confidence to remain faithful to His expectations and trust Him no matter what it may cost us to do so. 1.) [Slide 30] Mind Transformation: “What truth must we believe from this text?” or “What might we not naturally believe that we must believe because of what this text has said?” We must believe that God is sovereignly able to deliver His church from peril. a. Although we can pendulum swing too far here, we must believe and confess that God is sovereignly able to undo all the plans of the wicked and deliver His people safely from their hands. Is 54:17. b. This does not mean that God always will. God did not ultimately deliver 11 out of the 12 apostles from martyrdom. c. But believing that God is able but not always willing to deliver us is a far cry from what we might naturally believe, that our God is distant, aloof, indifferent, or powerless against the wills of evil men. d. Nothing could be further from the truth. God has placed us here as His servants and His lights to shine so that others may see Him. e. He has given us a message of good news to give to the nations. f. There are numerous examples throughout the New Testament of God rescuing His people from certain doom. g. God is still the same today. h. As our culture becomes more and more opposed to a biblical worldview and more and more antagonistic to the gospel of Christ, we have already and will no doubt continue to experience growing opposition on par with this example in Acts 5. i. As that day approaches my friends, we must believe that our God can prevent any evil raised against us if He so chooses. j. To the extent that we need not allow fear to dictate what we do. For God has our death day appointed. He knows when He will call us home. And that may not be this day. k. To not trust and believe that God is able to powerfully snatch us, even from men, is to doom ourselves to a fearful existence. l. But my friends – the scriptures show us that this is exactly who our God is. He defends His people. And if He doesn't… it is not because He couldn't… it is because He planned it that way. Ultimately to bring glory to Himself. m. With the confidence in knowing that whatever happens to us, it is God's plan, we can then boldly do all He has commanded, without fearing anything that men can do to us. 2.) [Slide 31] Refutation: “What lies must we cast down” or “What do we naturally believe, or have been taught to believe, that this passage shows is false?” We must not believe that we can disobey God to save ourselves. a. Many times, I think we can convince ourselves that it doesn't matter how we go about securing a good outcome, just so long as we do it. b. The apostles no doubt could have fled after being released from the prison. c. They could have resisted being arrested again. d. They could have lied to the Sanhedrin. e. They could have obeyed the Sanhedrin the first time and not preached in the name of Christ. f. And they could have justified it in so many ways. Doesn't Jesus want His gospel spread to the uttermost parts of the earth? Wouldn't us escaping Jerusalem and fleeing somewhere else accomplish that end? g. Maybe we can preach all the gospel and not mention Jesus' name. Perhaps we can just call Him Christ or the Son of God. h. My friends we can be tempted to believe that we can disobey the Lord to secure good and godly ends, but this is a lie. i. When we disobey the Lord in order to obey the Lord, we still disobey the Lord. When we disobey the Lord in order to secure a good end, it is not ultimately for our good but to our detriment. j. We betray our faulty understanding of our first application. We are not truly trusting that the outcome is securely in the hands of the Lord and that He can do miraculous things to deliver us if He so chooses. k. If we truly believed that, then we would not be looking to our ends at all. We would only be looking at what God has commanded of us. l. Therefore, we must naturally come to this next application. 3.) [Slide 32] Exhortation: “What actions should we take?” or “What is this passage specifically commanding us to do that we don't naturally do or aren't currently doing?” We must remain faithful to the Lord despite what it may cost us. a. No matter what the outcome may be… no matter what the ends are… we must obey the Lord. b. We must remain faithful and trust Him to either deliver us or to uphold us through the consequences of our obedience. c. The apostles went right back to that temple mount the next morning at dawn. They had no intention of disobeying the Lord to save their own skin. d. We can't engineer the outcomes… but we can be faithful to the Lord right now. e. My friends, we will face days where we may have to sacrifice a great deal to continue to confess Christ. f. There are stories in Foxes book of martyrs, horrible stories of dear saints tortured, forced to watch their spouses being raped and their children flayed alive. g. And they could have stopped all the pain and all the suffering were they only to deny that Christ is King. h. In that moment we may be tempted to forget the first two applications. We may start to believe that God is NOT in control of the outcome. We may start to forget that securing the safety of our children does NOT permit us to disobey our Lord. i. My friends, we must be ready to obey the Lord… even when it costs us everything. j. After almost 250 years of safely confessing Christ without much cost… I fear that we are not yet ready for this level of opposition. k. But we must begin to steel our hearts in His grace. l. We must remain faithful to the Lord… even when everything we hold dear is being ripped from us. m. We must do this knowing that God could stop it if He desired to. But if He does not, He will give us grace to endure. He expects us, simply, to remain faithful and preach the good news… even to those who are taking what we love from us. n. Could you preach the gospel of grace to those who took the lives of your family? o. Oh Lord… we need your grace. 4.) [Slide 33] De-Exhortation: “What actions should we stop doing” or “What behaviors do we naturally practice that this passage tells us to stop doing?” We must stop allowing fear of what may happen to us prevent us from remaining faithful to God's commands. a. I don't know if it is because we are western in our mindsets… I don't know if it is an American thing, a personality thing, or just a human thing… b. But often times we get caught playing the “what if” game. c. We overwhelm ourselves with all the what ifs. d. What if they break into my home? What if they try to take my kids? What if they trace my cell number? e. We must be very careful to not allow our playing of the “what if” game to turn into our planning to disobey God's commands in order to avoid the what ifs. f. If I never talk about Jesus, if I never pursue knowing Christ, if I never pray, if no one knows that I am a Christian because I never share the gospel with anyone… then I can insulate myself from their aggression when it comes. g. But my friends the church went to Solomon's Portico. 1000 feet from where the Sanhedrin told them NOT to speak in the name of Jesus. h. And what did they do? i. They spoke in the name of Jesus. j. And even after they were arrested for it… they were released miraculously and went RIGHT BACK TO IT! And even when they stood with those who had the power to punish them severely… those who killed their Savior… they offered THEM the gospel! k. They did not allow fear to keep them from obeying the Lord. l. And neither should we. m. We must trust God with what will be… and simply obey Him. 5.) [Slide 34 (end)] Comfort: “What comfort can we find here?” or “What peace does the Lord promise us in light of this passage of scripture?” God is sovereignly able to deliver His church from peril. a. To do all of this we must circle all the way back to remind ourselves of the comforting thing we must believe. b. If God wants to save us – there is nothing that can stop Him. c. If God doesn't desire to save us – then we are exactly where He has put us, and He won't forsake us. He will give us grace to face even heavy costs. d. This is great comfort and peace. e. He doesn't promise to always rescue us… but He does promise that He will never leave us or forsake us. f. This is all the comfort we need to obey Him until our dying breath. g. Indeed, for me to live is Christ… and to die is gain. Let me close with a puritan prayer. Let's pray. Father, you are the God of our end. You have given us a fixed disposition to go forth and spend our lives for you; If it be your will let us proceed in it; if not, then revoke our intentions. All we want in life is such circumstances as may best enable us to serve you in the world; To this end we leave all our concerns in your hand, but let us not be discouraged, for this hinders our spiritual fervency; Enable us to undertake some task for you, for this refreshes and animates our souls, so that we could endure all hardships and labours, and willingly suffer for your name. But, O what a death it is to strive and labour, to be always in a hurry and yet do nothing! Alas, time flies and we are of little use. O that we could be a flame of fire in your service, always burning out in one continual blaze. Fit us for singular usefulness in this world. Fit us to exult in distresses of every kind if they but promote the advancement of your kingdom. Fit us to quit all hopes of the world's friendship, and give us a deeper sense of our sinfulness. Fit us to accept as just desert from you any trial that may befall us. Fit us to be totally resigned to the denial of pleasures we desire, and to be content to spend our time with you. Fit us to pray with a sense of the joy of divine communion, to find all times happy seasons to our souls, to see our own nothingness, and wonder that we are allowed to serve you. Fit us to enter the blessed world where no unclean thing is, and to know you… with us… always. In Jesus name… Amen.
I am a new Creature. Do we know every good thing which is in you in Christ Jesus? Apostle Paul prayed in Philemon 1:4-6 I thank my God, making mention of thee always in my prayers,5 Hearing of thy love and faith, which thou hast toward the Lord Jesus, and toward all saints; 6 That the communication of thy faith may become effectual by the acknowledging of every good thing which is in you in Christ Jesus. We see that in knowing every good thing which is in Christ Jesus we can understand who Christ is and what He has done for us.We understand what we have in Christ and knowing our identity in HimIn Christ, through Christ, by Christ shows that we are not independent of Christ. The good thing which we have is in Christ and not our own Works We all used the word born-again after receiving Christ.Do you understand what it means to be born again?In John 3:3-6, Jesus used the word born again and Nicodemus replied and said “how can a man be born when he is old. Jesus was not referring to us for us to bear ourselvesBeing born again is not a character, as we think.Jesus was referring to a state, being born of God. This means there is nothing we can do to obtain salvation. Being born again is not part of your own doing, it is Christ Work. Born again is the new creature, being born of the Spirit, having the Spirit of God in you. It is a new beginning from above, you don't have any past anymore.In 2 cor. 5:15-17, Paul makes it clear that we don't longer live unto ourselves but unto Jesus Christ. We knew Him Christ after his flesh, which was before this death. Now we do not know him anymore after his flesh.For He has come to dwell in us, we are born of him, and we know him now after his Spirit.In him all things have become new. The believer is a new creature that doesn't have a past, we are born of the Spirit. 1 Peter 2:23 put it this way Being born again, not of corruptible seed, but of incorruptible, by the word of God, which liveth and abideth for ever The word Seed here is the new seed within us, which is the Spirit of Christ of which we are born of. You have received a new seed of Christ. You are already better in Christ.Change means you want to change something, but we are already new person in Christ.You have to see yourself as a new person in Christ, having the new nature of God. The new creature life comes from the Son1 John 5:11-12: And this is the record, that God hath given to us eternal life, and this life is in his Son. He that hath the Son hath life; and he that hath not the Son of God hath not life. In Ephesians 4:20-24 But ye have not so learned Christ;If so be that ye have heard him, and have been taught by him, as the truth is in Jesus:That ye put off concerning the former conversation the old man, which is corrupt according to the deceitful lusts;And be renewed in the spirit of your mind;And that ye put on the new man, which after God is created in righteousness and true holiness.Paul is describing the truth of who we are in Christ.Putting off the old corrupt man and putting on the new man. Our Change is our new nature, which is accomplished in God Paul wrote this in 1. Cor. 6:11 And such were some of you: but ye are washed, but ye are sanctified, but ye are justified in the name of the Lord Jesus, and by the Spirit of our God. Let`s confess our reality in Christ togetherI am born of GodI am born of an incorruptible seedI am washedI am sanctifiedI am justifiedI am born of the Spirit of GodI do not have a pastFor, I am that new Man in ChristI am a new creature in Christ Jesus --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/assumpta-widak/message
The Year of Open Doors - What is on the other side of These Doors - the promises of God! Join us as we release the word of the lord - Accelerated doors, Keepers of the keys and end in 2 Corinthians 1 "For as many as are the promises of God, they all find their Yes [answer] in Him [Christ]. For this reason we also utter the Amen (so be it) to God through Him [in His Person and by His agency] to the glory of God."
Christ had said to God in olden times, -I delight to do Thy will----That is, Christ delighted to come in human flesh, to sacrifice Himself, to take away our sin, and to shut down the animal sacrifices that God took no delight in.--Christ Himself expressed His desire to do God's will during His earthly ministry. Indeed, Jesus told His disciples that to do God's will was like food and drink to Him- Christ fed upon it, and drew strength from obeying His Father.--In John 6, Christ explicitly stated the will of the Father which He would surely accomplish- it was to save every single person given to Him by His Father, and lose not a one of us---He told us that He came down to earth to do His Father's will, and not His Own will.--It is important to recognize the congruence of the two statements of God's will which Christ delights to do. In Psalm 40 and Hebrews 10, God's will is, to set aside the animal offerings that He takes no pleasure in, and replace them with the offering of Christ that saves sinners, which God delights in. In these texts, the delightful will of God is expressed in terms of the means Christ must use to accomplish God's will.--In John 6, God's will is stated in terms of its purpose and result- to save all of His people that He gives to Christ unto everlasting life.--If Christ was to fulfill the will as stated in John 6, to save everyone given to Him by God, then He must delight to do the will expressed in Hebrews 10, that He sacrifice Himself as God's Lamb, and shut down the Old Testament animal sacrifices that could never save anybody.--When Jesus satisfied the will of God in dying to save us from our sin, He had in mind the same people that God gave Him-
Christ had said to God in olden times, -I delight to do Thy will----That is, Christ delighted to come in human flesh, to sacrifice Himself, to take away our sin, and to shut down the animal sacrifices that God took no delight in.--Christ Himself expressed His desire to do God's will during His earthly ministry. Indeed, Jesus told His disciples that to do God's will was like food and drink to Him- Christ fed upon it, and drew strength from obeying His Father.--In John 6, Christ explicitly stated the will of the Father which He would surely accomplish- it was to save every single person given to Him by His Father, and lose not a one of us---He told us that He came down to earth to do His Father's will, and not His Own will.--It is important to recognize the congruence of the two statements of God's will which Christ delights to do. In Psalm 40 and Hebrews 10, God's will is, to set aside the animal offerings that He takes no pleasure in, and replace them with the offering of Christ that saves sinners, which God delights in. In these texts, the delightful will of God is expressed in terms of the means Christ must use to accomplish God's will.--In John 6, God's will is stated in terms of its purpose and result- to save all of His people that He gives to Christ unto everlasting life.--If Christ was to fulfill the will as stated in John 6, to save everyone given to Him by God, then He must delight to do the will expressed in Hebrews 10, that He sacrifice Himself as God's Lamb, and shut down the Old Testament animal sacrifices that could never save anybody.--When Jesus satisfied the will of God in dying to save us from our sin, He had in mind the same people that God gave Him-
You know, sheep and shepherds were commonplace in Bible times. It is easy to see the contrast between the sheep and the shepherd. Sheep are helpless, weak, and needy creatures. They commonly lose their way and become easy targets for hungry predators. We are a lot like sheep. And spiritually we are easy prey for the devil who as a roaring lion seeks for those he can devour. On the other hand, we have a seeking Shepherd who is also looking for the sheep, ready to lay down His life for its rescue. What wonderful words Isaiah writes, “All we like sheep have gone astray. We have turned every one to his own way. And the Lord has laid on Him (Christ) the iniquity of us all.” Trust Him today, won't you?
God's promises reveal His will and heart's desire for us. New Testament says the promises of God are yes and amen to us. God wants to be believed, He wants us to trust Him for what man says is impossible. He is our more than enough supply - Amen! 2 Corinthians 1:20 20 For as many as are the promises of God, they all find their Yes [answer] in Him [Christ]. For this reason we also utter the Amen (so be it) to God through Him [in His Person and by His agency] to the glory of God. God is our Promise Keeper – He is looking for promise receivers! Join Us Today as Pastor Tim Starts a new series on how to see a fuller picture of who God is by examining what He says and what He does. Freedom Life Fellowship Euless, TX / Freedom Life Fellowship Live Stream Pastor Tim Hall Church Website - https://freedomlifemc.org/
Love One Another John 20:11-18 “For God so gave “ life.” John 3:16 loved the world, that he in him should not perish but have eternal his only Son, that whoever believes Now before the Feast of the Passover, when Jesus knew that his hour had come to depart out of this world to the Father, having loved his own who were in the world, he loved them to the end.” John 13:1 “You knew the full extent of their weakness, so you showed them the full extent of your love. Washing their feet was a prelude to washing their hearts. Water sufficed for the first, your lifeblood was required for the second.” --Scotty Smith “A . As “ life “When Jesus had received the sour wine, he said, “It is finished,” and he bowed his head and gave up his spirit.” John 19:30 ram and has new command I give you: Love one another I have loved you, so you must love one another. By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another.” John 13:34-35 My command is this: Love each other as I have loved you. Greater love no one than this: to lay down one's for one's friends.” John 15:12-13 “And the LORD God made for Adam and for his wife garments of skins and clothed them.” Genesis 3:21 “And Abraham lifted up his eyes and looked, and behold, behind him was a , caught in a thicket by his horns. And Abraham went and took the ram offered it up as a burnt offering instead of his son.” Genesis 21:13 “God made Him (Christ), who knew no sin, to be sin for us that we might become the righteousness of God in Him” 2 Corinthians 5:21 (the John pass will be read here) “ But that you may know that the Son of Man has authority rise on earth to forgive sins ”—he said to the paralytic— “I say to you, , pick up your bed, and go home.” Mark 2:10-11 you also will live” John 14:19 “Because I live,
Love One Another John 20:11-18 “For God so gave “ life.” John 3:16 loved the world, that he in him should not perish but have eternal his only Son, that whoever believes Now before the Feast of the Passover, when Jesus knew that his hour had come to depart out of this world to the Father, having loved his own who were in the world, he loved them to the end.” John 13:1 “You knew the full extent of their weakness, so you showed them the full extent of your love. Washing their feet was a prelude to washing their hearts. Water sufficed for the first, your lifeblood was required for the second.” --Scotty Smith “A . As “ life “When Jesus had received the sour wine, he said, “It is finished,” and he bowed his head and gave up his spirit.” John 19:30 ram and has new command I give you: Love one another I have loved you, so you must love one another. By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another.” John 13:34-35 My command is this: Love each other as I have loved you. Greater love no one than this: to lay down one's for one's friends.” John 15:12-13 “And the LORD God made for Adam and for his wife garments of skins and clothed them.” Genesis 3:21 “And Abraham lifted up his eyes and looked, and behold, behind him was a , caught in a thicket by his horns. And Abraham went and took the ram offered it up as a burnt offering instead of his son.” Genesis 21:13 “God made Him (Christ), who knew no sin, to be sin for us that we might become the righteousness of God in Him” 2 Corinthians 5:21 (the John pass will be read here) “ But that you may know that the Son of Man has authority rise on earth to forgive sins ”—he said to the paralytic— “I say to you, , pick up your bed, and go home.” Mark 2:10-11 you also will live” John 14:19 “Because I live,
2 Corinthians 1:20 20 For as many as are the promises of God, they all find their Yes [answer] in Him [Christ]. For this reason we also utter the Amen (so be it) to God through Him [in His Person and by His agency] to the glory of God. It is His will for you to receive His promises… but principles of faith (ways of God) must be known and applied by grace through faith. He wants us to receive – flip the switch! *The Lord has already provided all He is going to provide through the death and resurrection of Jesus. By His stripes you were healed. Join Us Today as Pastor Tim Hall encourages us to really KNOW the Lord and His ways! Freedom Life Fellowship Euless, TX / Freedom Life Fellowship Live Stream Pastor Tim Hall Church Website - https://freedomlifemc.org/
March 19 2023 Sunday T. Stacy Hayes Week 10 / Light To All In Him #findoutwhoyouare My Vision My vision is to teach the world Who They Are In Jesus Christ their Lord and Savior! To Teach them what the Bible says about them and who they have been made to be in the promises of God's Word. This changed my life years ago and completely transformed me from a person full of doubt, fear and unbelief to a strong confident Christian that knows I can do anything through Jesus Christ my Lord and Savior. And I'm determined to teach the world what God has taught and commissioned me to teach and that is His Word. That commission takes me to jails and detention centers weekly along with other open doors at many churches and ministries that are wanting to teach these important truths to the world. My podcast goes out 6 days a week to help the people I am ministering to grow in the truths that God has taught me for many years now. This podcast is free to all that want to listen and grow strong in who God has made them to be in Christ Jesus their Lord and Savior. This In Him Scripture Study Started On June 21 2021 Go Back And Listen From The Beginning… The Study In Romans Started on March 30 2022 Go Back And Listen To This Study From The Beginning… Isaiah 53:5 Healing… Matthew 18:19 Agree with God's Word… Mark 10:29-30 100 Fold Return… Acts 10:34 God is no respecter of persons… “In him was life; and the life was the light of men.” John 1:4 KJV “The Word gave life to everything that was created, and his life brought light to everyone.” John 1:4 NLT “In Him was Life, and the Life was the Light of men.” John 1:4 AMPC “that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have eternal life. For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.” John 3:15-16 KJV “so that everyone who believes in him will have eternal life. “For this is how God loved the world: He gave his one and only Son, so that everyone who believes in him will not perish but have eternal life.” John 3:15-16 NLT “In order that everyone who believes in Him [who cleaves to Him, trusts Him, and relies on Him] may not perish, but have eternal life and [actually] live forever! For God so greatly loved and dearly prized the world that He [even] gave up His only begotten (unique) Son, so that whoever believes in (trusts in, clings to, relies on) Him shall not perish (come to destruction, be lost) but have eternal (everlasting) life.” John 3:15-16 AMPC “For all the promises of God in him are yea, and in him Amen, unto the glory of God by us.” 2 Corinthians 1:20 KJV “For all of God's promises have been fulfilled in Christ with a resounding “Yes!” And through Christ, our “Amen” (which means “Yes”) ascends to God for his glory.” 2 Corinthians 1:20 NLT “For as many as are the promises of God, they all find their Yes [answer] in Him [Christ]. For this reason we also utter the Amen (so be it) to God through Him [in His Person and by His agency] to the glory of God.” 2 Corinthians 1:20 AMPC “For he hath made him to be sin for us, who knew no sin; that we might be made the righteousness of God in him.” 2 Corinthians 5:21 KJV “For God made Christ, who never sinned, to be the offering for our sin, so that we could be made right with God through Christ.” 2 Corinthians 5:21 NLT “For our sake He made Christ [virtually] to be sin Who knew no sin, so that in and through Him we might become [endued with, viewed as being in, and examples of] the righteousness of God [what we ought to be, approved and acceptable and in right relationship with Him, by His goodness].” 2 Corinthians 5:21 AMPC “according as he hath chosen us in him before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy and without blame before him in love:” Ephesians 1:4 KJV “Even before he made the world, God loved us and chose us in Christ to be holy and without fault in his eyes.” Ephesians 1:4 NLT “Even as [in His love] He chose us [actually picked us out for Himself as His own] in Christ before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy (consecrated and set apart for Him) and blameless in His sight, even above reproach, before Him in love.” Ephesians 1:4 AMPC Romans 10:9-10 Salvation… Romans 10:17 Faith in God comes from hearing His Word… Matthew 11:28-30 Jesus'Yoke is Easy… John 3:16 God gave Jesus to pay for our Salvation… God Loves The abortion dr As Much As He Loves The Babies They Are Killing… Philippians 12:2 Work out your own Salvation… Romans 8:1 No condemnation in Jesus Christ our Lord and Savior… Luke Chapter 15 The Story Of The Prodigal Son… Philippians 4:19 God will supply all your needs let Him… Romans 4:20 Don't Stagger at What God Is Saying In His Word… John 15:5 We can't do anything aside from Jesus Christ our Lord and Savior… 2 Corinthians 5:17 We are new creatures in Jesus Christ our Lord and Savior… 2 Corinthians 5:21 We are The Righteousness of God In Jesus Christ our Lord and Savior… Mark 10:29-30 100 Fold Return… Ephesians 2:8 We are Saved by Grace through Faith in Jesus Christ our Lord and Savior… Believe God's Word Above All Opinions God Loves The abortion dr's As Much As He Loves The Babies They Are Killing… Mark 10:29-30 100 Fold Return… Share This Podcast On Your Social Media… Website https://the-prodigalson.com Email tstacyhayes@gmail.com YouVersion Bible App https://my.bible.comi iOS App https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/prodigal-son/id1450529518?mt=8 … Android App https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=tv.wizzard.android.prodical Social Media https://www.facebook.com/The-Prodigal-SON-209069136315959/ https://www.facebook.com/noreligion1511/ https://twitter.com/noreligion1511 https://www.instagram.com/noreligion1511/ https://m.youtube.com/channel/UCPx4s1CLkSYef6mp4dSuU4w/featured
Series: Discipleship. Passage: Ephesians 4:1-16. Preacher: Mark Smith. Service: 9:45am Wollongong. Date of Talk: 5 March, 2023. Christ Unites His People 1) Jesus unites us to Him: Christ calls us 2) Jesus unites us to others: You can't walk worthily' alone 3) Jesus unites us in difference: Unity is not 'uniformity' We belong 'beyond barriers': If you belong to Jesus, you belong to Church 1) Character: Disciples are selflessly committed to others 2) Diversity: Disciples actively use Christ's gifts to bless 3) Purpose: Disciples' passion is the whole church's maturity
“For all the promises of God in Him (Christ) are Yes, and in Him, Amen to the glory of God through us.” 2 Corinthians 1:20 NKJV2 Corinthians 1:20, Psalms 39:3, Jeremiah 17:7-8, Job 33:24-25, Isaiah 46:4, Ezekiel 34:15-16, Psalms23:1, 1John 4:10, Isaiah 53:5, Exodus 14:13-14, Luke 6:19, John 10:10-11, 2 Corinthians 1:3-4, Ephesians 1:6, Psalms 29:11, Psalms 30:2 & Exodus 15:2Received Jesus Christ as your Savior? Have a praise report to share? I would love to hear from you! Contact me at: gracegang20@gmail.comLooking for a church home? Join me at:https://gracerevonline.com/
Est 2:12-18 ESV 12 Now when the turn came for each young woman to go in to King Ahasuerus, after being twelve months under the regulations for the women, since this was the regular period of their beautifying, six months with oil of myrrh and six months with spices and ointments for women— 13 when the young woman went in to the king in this way, she was given whatever she desired to take with her from the harem to the king's palace. 14 In the evening she would go in, and in the morning she would return to the second harem in custody of Shaashgaz, the king's eunuch, who was in charge of the concubines. She would not go in to the king again, unless the king delighted in her and she was summoned by name. 15 When the turn came for Esther the daughter of Abihail the uncle of Mordecai, who had taken her as his own daughter, to go in to the king, she asked for nothing except what Hegai the king's eunuch, who had charge of the women, advised. Now Esther was winning favor in the eyes of all who saw her. 16 And when Esther was taken to King Ahasuerus, into his royal palace, in the tenth month, which is the month of Tebeth, in the seventh year of his reign, 17 the king loved Esther more than all the women, and she won grace and favor in his sight more than all the virgins, so that he set the royal crown on her head and made her queen instead of Vashti. 18 Then the king gave a great feast for all his officials and servants; it was Esther's feast. He also granted a remission of taxes to the provinces and gave gifts with royal generosity. CHOSEN AND CROWNED The time came for each young woman to go in to King Ahasuerus, after being twelve months of beauty treatments—six months with oil of myrrh, followed by six months with special perfumes and ointments. She could choose whatever clothing or jewelry she wanted to take from the harem. After this first meeting, She would be brought to the second harem, where the king's wives lived. There she would be under the care of Shaashgaz, the king's eunuch in charge of the concubines. She would never go to the king again unless he had especially delighted in her and requested her by name. In other words, this was their only opportunity to see the king personally. When it was Esther's turn to go to the king, she accepted the advice of Hegai, the eunuch in charge of the harem. She asked for nothing except what he suggested, and she was admired by everyone who saw her. Esther had such natural beauty and charm that she required no special adornments to make her more attractive. "Both Josephus and the Jewish Rabbis exaggerated the beauty of Esther and elaborated on her virtues and piety. The Rabbis held that Esther was one of the four most beautiful women in history along with Sarah, Rahab, and Abigail (Megillah 15a). Josephus maintained that Esther 'surpassed all women in beauty' in the entire habitable world." [by Dr. Constable quoting Yamauchi, "The Archaeological . . .," p. 106. See Josephus, 11:7, for his account of the story of Esther.] God has ‘chosen us in Him[Christ]' [Eph 1:4] There is no way God would be delighted in us, sinners. However Christ's righteousness is clothed upon us. As Paul declared, “For our sake he made him to be sin who knew no sin, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God.”[2 Cor 5:21] Thus, we only became attractive and acceptable because of Christ. In God's sight it appears that we are flawless, that we never had committed any sin at all. We are declared righteous. The king set the royal crown on her head and made her queen instead of Vashti. Then the king gave a great feast for all his officials and servants; it was Esther's feast.
Sacrifice is the greatest proof of God's love for us. He showed us this example by giving His only Son to die for our sins (John 3:16). On the other hand, we must prove that we love him. Scripture says that we love Him because He first loved us. This love can not be by mouth but by deeds. Therefore, our most important proof that we love Him (Christ) is our obedience to His instructions. It is not in what we give in church or towards missions, but in our day-to-day obedience to His voice.
"Jesus replied, "Did I not tell you that if you believed, you would see the glory of God?" John 11:40 In the Gospel of John's eleventh chapter, Jesus speaks to Martha after her brother Lazarus has died. He tells her that if she believes in him, she will see the glory of God. This verse is significant because it shows the power of faith. Even amid death and despair, Jesus brings hope to Martha by telling her that her brother will rise again. This verse also reminds us that we should believe in Jesus, even when things seem hopeless. Today's Bible verse is an important concept because it shows that we have the ability to control our destiny. If we believe that we can do something with God, we will be able to do it. This is a great message for people who are trying to achieve their goals before the end of this year. What you believe determines who you are and whom you will become. If you believe in God, then you are not limited by humankind's nature because God is the one who created all things and everything that exists. However, if you only trust in humanity like you, then you might end up trapped by man's power. John 3:16 says, "For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son, that everyone who believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life." Therefore, we must be careful about whom we lean on. We all sinned; we all fall short of God's excellent standard. We deserve some punishment. Instead, God, the Father, sent His only Son into the world so that whosoever believes Him (Christ) will be redeemed, saved, and enjoy an abundant life. Christ came for salvation, and he did live the sinless life because of you and me; he shows us how to believe and serve a living God. In Luke 23:41, "We deserve to die for our crimes, but this man hasn't done anything wrong." He died for our sins, taking upon himself the penalty that we deserve. Ephesians 1:7-8 says, "In Him, we have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of our trespasses, according to the riches of His grace, that he lavished on us. With all wisdom and understanding." If you believe in your spirit that Christ alone is your Savior, declaring, Jesus is Lord, '' you can be saved from judgment and spend eternity with God in heaven. Amen. 1 John 5:12 says, "Whoever has the Son has life; whoever does not have the Son of God does not have life." Amen. Prayer Thank God, who gave you Christ, who takes away sin. Every power intimidating my faith in Christ, Lord, washes them away with the blood of Jesus. Lord Jesus, I believe you as my Lord and Savior. https://maglife.org/ --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/pastor-divineo/support
Ministering Angels Through UBM (4) (Audio) David Eells - 8/21/22 Father Confirms the Angels Isaac Payne - 8/18/22 (Eve's notes in green | David's notes in Red) I just wanted to share a confirmation dream that I had prayed for. After listening to the first broadcast about angels and receiving the 8 day fast email, I asked Father to confirm all this to me and Father surely did! He gave me a dream that was "to the point" and exactly correlating to all the events taking place concerning the angels. After I woke up, I had to repent for any unbelief. I'm thankful for a Father who just wants us to believe and gave me such strong answers to rid me from any unbelief. I believe! In this dream I was with the local UBM body and a few from the UBM Outreach body. We were standing outside in the country and the sun was out and it was a very beautiful, bright day. There were large trees around with beautiful green foliage. Standing next to me was Eve Brast. In front of us was a white, four door car with some type of special painting on it. All over the car was what seemed like a lot of the “&" signs. (Meaning a constant addition of revelations and gifts of the Spirit through the angels.) The "&" sign was a beautiful turquoise color. (Turquoise is one of the stones in the high priests breastplate. The turquoise stone represents the tribe of Judah who had the headship in Jerusalem, the Bride.) Eve said, "I really like this color." I responded, "So do I." After that, Eve and Missy Pollock grabbed a car cover and draped it over the car. (The cover represents a hiding of the vehicle; the angelic ministers.) However, this car cover had a key to it that could be unlocked or locked and Eve was the only one with the key. (I don't know what this means, but I remember, in the dream, this was a very wonderful and powerful ability that Eve had.) (This ability is the ability to see and converse with the angels for UBM ministry.) Suddenly, the UBM local body, and some of the UBM Outreach, were in an antique store. (Representing the life of the early Church.) Again, standing next to me was Eve. All of the UBM local and some of the Outreach were huddled around conversing in the store. There was a counter and a cash register in front of all of us. And behind it was David Eells. It looked like a typical counter and cash register at a restaurant. (Representing those who will pay the price of denying themselves to draw close to the Lord and partake of HIs food.) I was still standing next to Eve and suddenly the Lord began to reveal to me, through supernatural knowledge, confirming my prayers. It wasn't as if I was hearing His voice audibly, but it was just this intense feeling. Father was explaining everything to me in my heart. It was all encompassing knowledge as Father's words entered my heart. Father said, "Eve witnesses all such things because she is first born of the new creation.” (Meaning, Jerusalem, the Bride, of the last Adam, Jesus, is first in the kingdom including her head which is the Man-child David. This is the first fruits of the Body of Christ.) (Col. 1:15-16 The Son is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn over all creation. (After reading verse 15, I read on to verse 16 and it fits so perfectly with all this that it is truly remarkable.) 16 For in him were all things created: things in heaven and on earth, visible or invisible, whether throned or powers or rulers or authorities; all things have been created through him and for him.) I looked up this verse because He showed me she was firstborn of all creation. (Meaning, the new creation of Christ manifested in His Body.) Still standing there, the Lord spoke to my heart again saying, "This is why I have named her Eve." (Biblically Eve was the first mother.) And I knew in the dream it represented this verse. Mar 3:34-35 Then he looked at those seated in a circle around him and said, "Here are my mother and my brothers! 35 Whoever does God's will is my brother and sister and mother. I believe this means she is birthing Christ in her. John 16:21 A woman when she is in travail hath sorrow, because her time has come: but when she is delivered of the child, she remembereth no more the anguish, for the joy that a man is born into the world.) (Eve said, "When Father said in your dream, "This is why I have named her Eve.” This is true because both of my parents had agreed to name me, “Nina”. Back when I was born the nurses came out to my Dad, who was in the waiting room, and asked him, “What are you going to name her?” (For the birth certificate) He was about to tell them, “Nina”, but (he told me that) he heard an audible voice say, “You will name her Eve.” (He told me this is how I got my name; That God had named me and not them.) This was before my dad was saved, but he knew it was the voice of God that had spoken to him and he feared to tell them anything else so he told the nurses that my name was “Eve”. My mother was shocked when she found out that my dad had changed my name and that's what they had put on the birth certificate. He told her that God had spoken to him and that he had to obey. But she was happy because she thought it was a nice name too. :o) Back to Isaac: Still standing next to Eve, I looked around and saw arguing going on amongst some people. I did not recognize them. One was a man who was short, pudgy, and bald. I looked on past the bickering and saw Missy Pollock who was very happy and she said, "I want dreams and visions". I then said, "I too want dreams and visions." I looked at David as he was standing behind the counter and cash register and he said, "I too want visions." Then I woke up. I knew that we weren't talking about just dreams and visions, but visions into the spiritual world to see the angels as Eve does. Mat 13:31-32 Another parable set he before them, The kingdom of Heaven is like unto to a grain of mustard seed, which a man took and sowed into his field: 32.) which indeed is less than all seeds; but when it is full grown, it is greater than the herbs, and becometh a tree, so that the birds of the heavens come in lodge in the branches thereof. The Lord showed me that the birds that lodge in the full grown tree are the angels. Earlier in Matt 13 Jesus speaks about the parable of the sower and the birds devoured the seed which Jesus later explains are demonic angels. I believe the heavenly angels are ready for our maturity to dispatch them through the spoken word coupled with faith.) Angels visit Shepherds and Man-child Comes David Eells Luk 2:8-21 And there were shepherds (this is the Greek word “poimen” which also is pastor.) in the same country abiding in the field, and keeping watch by night over their flock. 9 And an angel of the Lord stood by them, and the glory of the Lord shone round about them: and they were sore afraid. (Notice, that the angels visited the pastors and gave them instructions when the Man-child came.) 10 And the angel said unto them, Be not afraid; for behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy which shall be to all the people: 11 for there is born to you this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord. 12 And this is the sign unto you: Ye shall find a babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, and lying in a manger. 13 And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God, and saying, 14 Glory to God in the highest, And on earth peace among men in whom he is well pleased. (The angels have visited us and given us instructions and telling us that the Man-child's coming is close.) 15 And it came to pass, when the angels went away from them into heaven, the shepherds said one to another, Let us now go even unto Bethlehem, and see this thing that is come to pass, which the Lord hath made known unto us. 16 And they came with haste, and found both Mary and Joseph, and the babe lying in the manger. 17 And when they saw it, they made known concerning the saying which was spoken to them about this child. 18 And all that heard it wondered at the things which were spoken unto them by the shepherds. 19 But Mary kept all these sayings, pondering them in her heart. 20 And the shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things that they had heard and seen, even as it was spoken unto them. (And we were instructed to worship and praise God in a fast with all of our hearts and on the 8th day we would assemble and He would visit us in worship with spiritual anointings, giftings, healings, and deliverances.) 21 And when eight days were fulfilled for circumcising him, his name was called JESUS, which was so called by the angel before he was conceived in the womb. And the angels also visited Jesus, the Man-child, after his fast and temptation in His personal wilderness and ministered unto him. Mar 1:13 And he was in the wilderness forty days tempted of Satan; and he was with the wild beasts; and the angels ministered unto him. Confirmation of Jeruel's Word About the Fast and assemble on the 8th Day. Pat McKnight - 8/17/22 (David's notes in red) Just dropping you a note of the Lord confirming with me the message that the angel Jeruel gave us. Upon receiving the email from you Sunday night 14th with Jeruel's message from the Lord and I immediately responded that I was in and started my fast. The message aligned up with the message David gave last Wednesday 10th on "Ministering Angels through UBM" where he described Jeruel as being the angel with the anointing jar. The next morning I was in my prayer and study time I asked the Lord for a verse by faith at random for today and my finger landed on 2 Ch 7:6 (6-10 for context) 2 Ch 7:6 And the priests stood, according to their offices; the Levites also with instruments of music of Jehovah (Which we were also commanded to do.), which David the king had made to give thanks unto Jehovah, (for his lovingkindness endureth for ever,) when David praised by their ministry: and the priests sounded trumpets before them; and all Israel stood. 7 Moreover Solomon hallowed the middle of the court that was before the house of Jehovah; for there he offered the burnt-offerings (and we also were commanded to fast by offering up all flesh and attending to the Lord in worship.), and the fat of the peace-offerings, because the brazen altar which Solomon had made was not able to receive the burnt-offering, and the meal-offering, and the fat. 8 So Solomon held the feast at that time seven days, and all Israel with him, a very great assembly, from the entrance of Hamath unto the brook of Egypt. 9 And on the eighth day they held a solemn assembly: (Like us) for they kept the dedication of the altar seven days, and the feast seven days. 10 And on the three and twentieth day of the seventh month he sent the people away unto their tents, joyful and glad of heart for the goodness that Jehovah had showed unto David, and to Solomon, and to Israel his people. This was great confirmation to me that the Lord is pouring out His spirit to meet the crisis of the present and coming environment and I want to be ready to receive it. I believe that the writing is about to be written on the wall of the Babylonian Spirit Empire and great fear will follow when people wake up in the face of great destructions. This is where 2 Ch 7:11-16 comes into play where God's response is to sweep as many souls into His kingdom as a result of peoples hearts being turned, through the fear of God to the Lord Jesus Christ. Thank you Father for your grace unto us to participate in your marvelous plan of redemption and salvation for your people. God Bless and even so come Lord Jesus! Behold your King Dirk Oelofsen - 8/15/22 (David's notes in red) Thank you for passing on this message for the 8 day fast.A month ago, the morning of 7/16/22 I was busy with quiet time before leaving for work. I was reading in John 19 and as I got to verse 14 which reads “Now it was the Preparation of the passover: it was about the sixth hour. And he saith unto the Jews, Behold, your King!” I paused there for a moment pondering the verse and as I looked up I noticed the clock was exactly on 06:00 am.I felt that the Lord is showing me now is the time of anointing, our King manifesting in His first fruits. I asked Father for the meaning of this and I received two verses; Isaiah 23:12 with my finger on “...arise, pass over to Kittim…” and 1 Chronicles 16:11 “Seek ye the LORD and his strength; seek his face evermore.” The following morning I began reading in Acts 1 and 2 and as I was reading of the disciple's anointing at Pentecost, I went to Father in prayer asking Him for His anointing, to pour out His Spirit on His people. My eye then caught a small card sticking out of another part of my Bible. As I opened there it happen to be two cards each with two verses on them. The verses are as follow: Isaiah 65:24 “And it shall come to pass that, before they call, I will answer; and while they are yet speaking, I will hear.”1 John 5:14-15 And this is the boldness which we have toward him, that, if we ask anything according to his will, he heareth us: 15 and if we know that he heareth us whatsoever we ask, we know that we have the petitions which we have asked of him.Matthew 6:33 But seek ye first his kingdom, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.Proverbs 11:25 The liberal soul shall be made fat: and he that watereth shall be watered also himself.I then looked in the Bible where the cards were placed and it was at 2 Corinthians 6:14 - 7:1 Be not unequally yoked with unbelievers: for what fellowship have righteousness and iniquity? or what communion hath light with darkness? (15) And what concord hath Christ with Belial? or what portion hath a believer with an unbeliever? (16) And what agreement hath a temple of God with idols? for we are a temple of the living God; even as God said, I will dwell in them, and walk in them; and I will be their God, and they shall be my people. (17) Wherefore Come ye out from among them, and be ye separate, saith the Lord, And touch no unclean thing; And I will receive you, (18) And will be to you a Father, And ye shall be to me sons and daughters, saith the Lord Almighty. 7:1 Having therefore these promises, beloved, let us cleanse ourselves from all defilement of flesh and spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of God. I just wanted to share this with you as for me it fits in with the call for the sacrificial fast and the anointing that will follow. I praise and thank Father for this wondrous time. The cleansing, victory and anointing we are to have in Jesus :) Father Said, “Continue in Sacrificial Living Unto Him." Debbie Fenske - 8/17/22 (David's notes in red) I prayed, and feel the Lord okayed me to share this. I was meditating on Rom. 12:1 I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable to God, which is your spiritual service. And during the night, The Lord led me in praying that we would have a “changed” sacrificial aroma unto Him even after these 8 days, as we continue daily in sacrificial living unto Him. And He said, “Be sure not to go back into old habits, but love Me and one another.” (Jeruel said that the new method of worship should also continue on after the 8 days.) After that, two times throughout the night, as I would finally start to drift off to sleep, I was awakened hearing a word spoken, very clearly. The first time, I heard “Coronation”, and the 2nd time I heard, “Revival”. This morning the Lord said, “Be sure to not go back to your old habits, but loving, and serving Me and one another.” (So after the 8th day stay in close relationship to the Lord and the crucified life and then the crowning comes and the revival. Woo Hoo !! Eve said she had heard this very same message spoken to her the same morning of 8/17/22.) The Bride has the Fear of the Lord and an Understanding Heart Marie Kelton - 8/12/22 (David's notes in red) (Marie is being used to represent the Bride in this revelation.) During the meeting, I had an open vision of the Lord and he put a gold necklace around my neck with a key on it. (Representing the Key of David which the Lord gave to the Bride Church of Philadelphia. Rev 3:7, And to the angel of the church in Philadelphia write: These things saith he that is holy, he that is true, he that hath the key of David, he that openeth and none shall shut, and that shutteth and none openeth. (In the revelation below Anna Rountree explains this golden necklace. "A golden necklace (represents) the fear of the Lord. (12. In the Bible a golden necklace is an emblem of authority for a person who is under greater authority (Gen. 41:42; Eze. 16:11). An example is King “Belshazzar [who] gave orders and they…put a necklace of gold around his [Daniel's] neck giving him “authority as the third ruler in the kingdom” (Dan. 5:29). The neck represents the human will, either in yieldedness to authority or in being obstinate and stiff-necked (Pro. 1:8-9; Matt. 8:8-9; Acts 7:51). The Father gave His son authority over all things (Matt. 28:18; John 3:35). However, the Lord Jesus humbled Himself always to the authority of the Father's will (John 5:30). Because of His love and respect for the Father, Jesus feared to ever act independently of Him, but found delight in obeying Him (Psa. 40:8; Isa. 11:3; John 5:19-20). Christians will find rest only in having the same yoke about their necks (Matt. 11:28-30).) Marie: He then put another gold necklace on me with a heart on it. (Anna was presented these two gifts and she explains this golden heart necklace. "The gifts these angels presented included a golden heart that hung on a chain over my own heart―understanding; (8. The human definition of understanding is insight or comprehension with the mind of the meaning or the significance of something. The golden heart hung on a chain over a disciple's heart represents the spiritual heart of Christ being reproduced in that person (Song of Sol. 8:6). King Solomon asked God for an understanding heart to administer justice in the natural realm (1 Kings 3:9, 11). The Christian is given a spiritually-minded heart to understand things of God in the supernatural sphere (Eze. 11:19; 1 Cor. 2:14; Isa. 6:10). The renewed human spirit is to know intuitively in the conscience when some thought, word, or act is from God or not, but the heart is to understand its meaning. What the mind or the spirit cannot understand, the heart does because it is the seat of faith by which we understand spiritual things not seen" (Heb. 11:3; Rom. 10:9-10). The Priestly Bride - Published in 2001 by Anna Rountree https://annarountree.com/?page_id=184 (We obtained this excerpt freely from the internet and believe we are not in any copyright violations. We give full credit and sources here.) Often men identify with the priesthood of Christ and women with the bride of Christ. But in reality, neither the priest nor the bride has anything to do with our own gender. Our heavenly Father is looking only for His Son in us. He is looking to see if we exhibit the holiness and righteousness that was to be displayed in the lives of His biblical priests. He is looking to see if we exhibit that single- eyed devotion so apparent in a loving bride―the one who wishes nothing more than to live in perfect union with her husband―even as Christ lives in perfect union with His Father. Since only perfect union will satisfy our Father, He created us so that only perfect union will satisfy His children. The Visitation The edges of the air were on fire. I raised my hand to shield my eyes from the searing light. The very molecules of the air within our apartment were burning white-hot from a central point. Swiftly the Holy Spirit spoke: “Rise, Anna.” At the time I was down on my knees in prayer asking for more of God. Now, however, I had stopped praying, for I was struck by the wonder materializing before my eyes. The air sizzled and curled. From the center of this phenomenon, the fiery glory of the Lord began to burn through the wall of our apartment. The Holy Spirit had to set me on my feet for I could not stand. Seeing the Lord's glory while on Earth and in one's body is very different from seeing Him above while in the spirit. His glory is almost more than the physical body can bear. (1. The Lord Jesus visited the apostle John in a vision while he remained on the earth at the Island of Patmos (Rev. 1:9). He was so overcome that he “fell at His [Christ's] feet as a dead man” (v. 17; cf. Acts 9:3-5). But later John was taken up into heaven in spirit where he was able to look upon the Lord Jesus as well as the Father on His throne without being physically overcome (Rev. 4-5). Angels of His Presence As I rose to my feet, stately angels of His Presence stepped through the center of the blazing light to enter the room. (2. The apostle John saw “seven [of the] angels who stand before God” to do His bidding (Rev. 8:2). We know that among the angels of His presence is Gabriel, who told Zacharias that he “stands in the presence of God” (Luke 1:19). These angels are chosen for this special responsibility (1 Tim. 5:21). They came in pairs but separated as they touched the room's atmosphere. Four angels stood before me in a semicircle to my left, four angels in a semicircle to my right. They wore pale lavender robes embroidered with deep purple and gold on the sleeves and hem. Golden girdles bound these garments across their chests. (3. The colors of their robes signify that these angels stand in the presence of Christ the King (John 19:2-3). The golden girdles across their chests indicate their priestly service to God (Rev. 15:6). Each angel carried something in his hands in the manner of an emissary. Then four additional angels, similarly dressed, entered the room through the burning air. Each of these held one pole of a canopy, the sort one might see in a Jewish wedding. As they moved forward, the word LOVE could be seen at times in the canopy's fabric. (4. “All that the Father gives Me will come to Me,” Jesus said (John 6:37). The Father “gives” or betroths His children to His Son here on Earth at the time when each one is born again of the Spirit and enters the kingdom (John 3:3, 5-6). For the Christian, the chuppah is “in the bosom of the Father” Himself. The Lord calls this “My Father's house” where His own on Earth are to abide in spirit even now (John 1:18; 14:2-3; 17:24; Col. 3:3). The presence of the canopy symbolizes the fact that Jesus is coming from His Father's house in this instance. The chuppah itself represents the Father as signified by the word love.) King Jesus The Holy Spirit stirred and swelled into a whirlwind in response to the One who now stepped beneath the canopy. King Jesus, brighter than the sun, entered the room. Through the shock of unbelievable light, I could see faintly that He was wearing a rich purple cloak that opened in the front and hung in folds to the ground. It had long sleeves and was edged with a wide, gold brocaded border. Beneath this garment was a white robe that also reached to His feet. The robe was grappled across His chest with a golden girdle. On His head was a golden crown that was similar in some respects to the crowns used to cap Torah scrolls. (5. Melchizedek was king of Salem and priest of God Most High eternally (Gen 14:18; Heb. 7:1-3). The purple robe attests to Christ's royalty (John 19:2-3). The white robe with the golden girdle across His chest signifies His priesthood. Jesus appeared to the apostle John in the same white robe with the golden girdle. (Rev. 1:13). The crown He wears covers the top of His head in filigree work of gold. It is similar to the ornamental crowns placed on top of the Torah scrolls, the written Word of God in synagogues. The Lord Jesus is the Word of God (John 1:1). He was terrible in majesty, awesome in holiness, splendid in beauty. The Holy Spirit swirled around me to strengthen me, for the intense light and power emanating from the Lord made it difficult for me to stand. The Gifts Then, as if by some silent command from Jesus, the nearest angel in the semicircle stepped toward me. In his hands he held a golden crown, which he carefully placed upon my head. “Wisdom,” he said, smiling slightly. (6. The dictionary gives the meaning of human wisdom as knowledge of what is true or right, coupled with just judgement in applying it to obtain the desired results. But “the wisdom of this world is foolishness before God,” for natural wisdom is hopelessly flawed by sin (1 Cor. 3:19; 1:20). The wisdom of God the Father from the beginning has been encapsulated in the person of His son (1 Cor. 1:24; John 1:2). Those who receive Christ Jesus are put into Him by God, so that the Son becomes for them all things including divine wisdom (John 1:12; 1Cor. 1:30; Rom. 8:32). Then crossing his arms over his chest, he nodded respectfully and stepped back into the semicircle.) The angel opposite him in the semicircle stepped forward with the gift he was carrying. He placed golden earrings on my ears. “Knowledge,” he said. (7. The dictionary defines human knowledge as acquaintance with information learned from study or from experience. Golden earrings signify the divine knowledge from the Father that Jesus receives for the Christian. Christ said that “He [God] awakens My ear to listen as a disciple…and I was not disobedient” (Isa. 50:4-5). The Holy Spirit reveals to the disciple the knowledge the Lord Jesus has received for that person (1 Cor. 2:10-11). One category of such knowledge is the spiritual gift called the word of knowledge (1 Cor. 12:8). It is a direct disclosure of knowledge that was not seen, heard, or thought by the Christian (1 Cor. 2:9). Another area of supernatural knowledge is the disciple's conscience where the Spirit reveals what is in accord or not in accord with the life of Christ in that person (Rom. 9:1). Then he too folded his arms over his chest and moved back to join the other angels.) One by one each of the remaining angels of His presence brought the gift that he held in his hands. After the physical gift was placed upon me, the angel named the spiritual gift it symbolized. The gifts these angels presented included a golden heart that hung on a chain over my own heart―understanding; (8. The human definition of understanding is insight or comprehension with the mind of the meaning or the significance of something. The golden heart hung on a chain over a disciple's heart represents the spiritual heart of Christ being reproduced in that person (Song of Sol. 8:6). King Solomon asked God for an understanding heart to administer justice in the natural realm (1 Kings 3:9, 11). The Christian is given a spiritually-minded heart to understand things of God in the supernatural sphere (Eze. 11:19; 1 Co. 2:14; Isa. 6:10). The renewed human spirit is to know intuitively in the conscience when some thought, word, or act is from God or not, but the heart is to understand its meaning. What the mind or the spirit cannot understand, the heart does because it is the seat of faith by which we understand spiritual things not seen (Heb. 11:3; Rom. 10:9-10).) Golden bracelets on each wrist―discretion; (9. One of the meanings of human discretion is the capacity to act judiciously, being circumspect in exercising sensitivity regarding the effect of one's conduct. The main Hebrew word for bracelets is derived from a root word meaning “to bind or join”. Bracelets on the wrists of the Christian signify being bound or attached to The Lord Jesus (1 Cor. 6:15, 17). In New Testament times, prisoners were bound to their guard by a chain around their wrists (Acts 12:6-7). Paul considered consecrated disciples to be willing prisoners of Christ Jesus (Rom 16:7). As such we are to be restrained by the Spirit in not being able to do or say what we please, but are to act as the Spirit leads (Gal. 5:17-18).) A golden nose ornament―discernment; (10. The dictionary defines discernment as the faculty to make distinctions accurately between things. The nose ornament is a symbol of spiritual discernment because the nose instantly recognizes the presence of an odor. It distinguishes between pleasant and offensive smells without reference to the mind or to sight (Eze. 16:12; 1 Sam. 3:9). Discernment is meant by the common expression, “Sniffing out a matter”. The first thing to determine in spiritual discernment is whether the matter at hand is of God or not. If it is not of God, the next distinction is whether it is of the flesh (coming from the natural person) or of Satan (demonic). This spiritual gift can be a manifestation of the Holy Spirit called the distinguishing of spirits. It enables believers to identify the kind of spirit that is operating in a particular situation, group or person (1 Cor. 12:7, 10).) Golden rings on each finger―the ability to communicate; (11. In ancient Jewish betrothals, for the right to marry the girl, the groom's family gave gifts – called the bridal price (Gen. 24:53; 29:18, 26-27; 34:11-12). The giving of money or some other gift of value constituted the engagement to be married. In more recent Jewish betrothal ceremonies, the groom gives the bride a ring and says “Behold! You are consecrated to me with this ring according to the Law of Moses and Israel.” When one is betrothed to the Lord Jesus, a spiritual ring on the finger is a constant reminder that one is consecrated (set apart) unto Him. It also represents His pledge of faithfulness to endow the person with spiritual gifts and grace needful to carry out the Father's calling upon that person.) A golden necklace―the fear of the Lord. (12. In the Bible a golden necklace is an emblem of authority for a person who is under greater authority (Gen. 41:42; Eze. 16:11). An example is King “Belshazzar [who] gave orders and they…put a necklace of gold around his [Daniel's] neck giving him “authority as the third ruler in the kingdom” (Dan. 5:29). The neck represents the human will, either in yieldedness to authority or in being obstinate and stiff-necked (Pro. 1:8-9; Matt. 8:8-9; Acts 7:51). The Father gave His son authority over all things (Matt. 28:18; John 3:35). However, the Lord Jesus humbled Himself always to the authority of the Father's will (John 5:30). Because of His love and respect for the Father, Jesus feared to ever act independently of Him, but found delight in obeying Him (Psa. 40:8; Isa. 11:3; John 5:19-20). Christians will find rest only in having the same yoke about their necks (Matt. 11:28-30).) The eighth angel stepped forward and blew a mist of gold over me. It covered me like a veil from my head to my feet. “Favor,” he said as he smiled. (13. The betrothed, Rebekah, asked the servant, “Who is that man walking in the field to meet us?” The servant said, “He [Isaac] is my master. Then she took her veil and uncovered herself” (Gen. 24:65). It was a custom in early times in the East for a future bride to be, set apart until she was married. A disciple of Christ accepts the spiritual veiling of one's whole being in consecration to Him (1 Cor. 6:19-20). The word for favor is usually translated as “grace” in the Bible. The veil of divine favor (grace) surrounds those who embrace their consecration to Jesus. Each can say (with David) “You surround [me] with favor as with a shield” (Psa. 5:12).) He too nodded and stepped back into the semicircle. The Response I was stunned. I had never received such an immediate and extravagant answer to prayer. I looked down at the gifts that I was able to see. They were princely―gifts of my Father from my Father. (14. Through his servant, Abraham gave gifts to Rebekah, the betrothed of his son Isaac (Gen. 24-53). Our Father God gives gifts of His splendor through His Son to those who welcome their betrothal to Christ Jesus (James 1:17). These presents cause the bride to be “exceedingly beautiful” in God's eyes. He said that the “Beauty [is] perfect because of My splendor which I bestow on you” (Eze. 16:13-14). But why the canopy? “Lord,” I said, “let all of these gifts be within for Your pleasure.” (15. The author of the Book of Hebrews says that Psalm 45 is about God's son (Heb. 1:8-9). It is a wedding song of the marriage of Christ the King and His bride. In Psalm 45:13 the bride is described as “all glorious within”. This refers to the “hidden person of the heart, with the imperishable quality of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is precious in the sight of God” (1 Pet. 3:4).) He smiled at me. “Because you have asked that these be for My pleasure, they will be [for My pleasure] and will also be experienced by others. (16. King Solomon asked God to “give Thy servant an understanding heart to judge Thy people to discern between good and evil.” God said to him, “Because you have asked this thing and have not asked [things] for yourself…I have done according to your words… [and] I have also given you what you have not asked” (1 Kings 3:9, 11-13).) These gifts will unlock My heart to you and to My body. All mysteries are bound up, locked away in Me, Anna. But the mystery of My love is the greatest revelation of all.” (17. The supreme mystery of God is Christ who incorporates all other divine mysteries within Him (Col. 2:2-3). The mystery of the ever-expanding love that is manifested in Christ is the greatest mystery of God. It can never be fully known (Eph. 3:17-19; Luke 10:22).) Moving toward me, He said, “My chosen one, My love, a fruitful bough, an orchard of fruitfulness.” “Lord,” I replied, “I am barren.” (I had never borne physical children.) He smiled again as He answered, “You will bear and be more fruitful than if you had borne physical children. I have withheld your bearing. But now I place My hands upon you that you might bring forth good fruit―many children, all heirs, kings and priests to their Father.” (18. “Rejoice, barren woman who does not bear; Break forth and shout, you who are not in labor; For more numerous are the children of the desolate, than of the one who has a husband” (Gal. 4:27; cf. Isa. 54:1).) He placed His hands upon me. Fire and power surged through me. He continued to speak, “No longer will you bear shame because of unfruitfulness.” Ratification of Betrothal “Cleave to Me,” He said. “I am your Husband. (19. Adam was “a type of Him [Christ] who was to come” (Rom. 5:14; cf. Gen. 2:24). Husbands and wives on earth are to become “one flesh,” meaning that the two think and act as one. In full union with Christ, the betrothed one becomes one heart, one soul and one spirit with Him (Eze. 11:19; Acts 4:32; 1 Cor. 6:17). The Bible calls Joseph the “husband” of Mary. After their betrothal they were considered married but without the physical consummation (Matt. 1:19). This is also true with the betrothal to the Lord Jesus. (2 Cor. 11:2).) Let My covering be on your head.” (20. In two instances of betrothal in Scripture, the groom places his garment over the intended bride. (a) God spread His skirt over His people of Jerusalem that His love might cover their nakedness (the exposure of their sinful nature) (Eze. 16:8; 1 Pet. 4:8). (b) The widow Ruth asked her relative Boaz to spread his covering over her as a sign of his willingness to be her protector as redeemer (Ruth 3:9, 12-13; Deu. 25:5-7). Jesus as our head covering in betrothal means that we walk under His favor, protection and authority. This is so that our “minds should [not] be lead astray from the simplicity and purity of devotion to Christ” (2 Cor. 11:3). His eyes burned into me as He continued, “I am the Lord your God, and none is like Me. I am the beginning and the end. I am your health, your protection and your fruitfulness. Thousands upon thousands of heirs will you bear, those who will walk right into My kingdom, those who will be at home in My chambers. “Anna,” He said in a more intimate tone, “you are more beautiful now than earlier. My heart is turned toward you. My desire is for you. You have captured My heart. Lock this away in your heart, for My promises are true and sure.” (21. The passionate heart of Christ for His betrothed ones is represented by the ardor of the shepherd for the maiden in Song of Solomon 4:9. “You have made my heart beat faster, my sister, my bride. You have made my heart beat faster with a single glance of your eyes.”) I could hardly breathe. “Lord,” I whispered, “let it be soon.” “It is already accomplished,” He said. “Bear fruit for the kingdom. Shun pride. (22. “…the boastful pride of life, is not from the Father but is from the world [system ruled by Satan]” (1 John 2:16). Pride is claiming for oneself glory that belongs to God (John 5:44). All glory belongs to God. He has said, “I will not give My glory to another” (Isa. 42:8). The Son of God “is the radiance of His [Father's] glory,” but He did not claim that glory as His own (Heb. 1:3). It remains the Father's alone. The light of God's glory shines within the hearts of disciples, but it is not their possession (2 Cor. 4:6). They are “reflecting” it, as in 2 Corinthians 3:18, where “reflecting” is the better meaning of the Greek word usually translated “beholding”.) Point not the finger.” (23. Isaiah spoke of abstaining from the pointing of the finger,” which means passing judgement on other people (Isa. 58:9).) The Departure He bowed at the waist as a sign of His departure and stepped back under the canopy. Once under the canopy, He turned and walked through the burning opening in the wall of the apartment. The four angels holding the poles of the canopy also bowed and walked out with Him, holding the canopy over His head as He disappeared. The angels of His presence also signified their departure, and two by two they followed the Lord. Then the Holy Spirit swirled before me again, this time gathering up all of the remaining fire and light. He too passed through the apartment wall. Instantly, the gifts became internal and no longer adorned me externally. The wall closed. Silence. (I encourage everyone listening to click the free download link here and read and acquaint yourselves with the heavenly wisdom and revelations of who the Bride is and what qualities she possesses.) Angel Messages From the 8th Day Anointing Eve Brast (David's notes in red) Last night when David asked if the angels had anything to say in our meeting, I was able to hear a few sentences and much more was inferred in my mind. This morning as I meditated on each one's message they each added more to complete them for us. I will incorporate it all for us below: Jeruel spoke first, since he had the privilege of bringing us the message about the fast and the honor of pouring out the anointing gifts, healings and deliverances upon us last night. He said, “Your Father is very pleased with your sacrifice of praise tonight. Many anointings have been poured out on the hungry saints of UBM who were faithful to humble and empty themselves and believe our message spoken unto you. This must become your new Way (of meeting and being.) (Eve said, "While I was typing this message, I was given a vision of something else that Jeruel did once the anointings were finished being poured out upon us at our 8th day meeting. In the vision the scene was at dusk. I saw him grow very large, as tall as David's Son-shine Mountain. He no longer had the anointing jug. His sword was now drawn and he wore his black, velvet belt. I saw him elevated, 50 feet above the ground, in a large valley between two mountain ranges. He was violently swinging his golden sword back and forth with both hands and his face looked fierce. I saw many small, dark figures of people running and scattering for their lives, but they all fell because there was no hope of outrunning his sword.) (This is confirmation that the factions have fallen. I asked Shemuel, who coordinates with the angels over the foreign missionaries, specifically, “Has their faction been conquered as well as ours?” Shemuel said, “The others who have charge of the missionaries overseas have put down their factions also. But they too will need to know and understand the conditions of continued protection and success.”) Back to Jeruel: From this night and onward, all the saints of UBM both near and far who hunger to be united with you (UBM local) in the worship and praise of our Great God shall be invited every Friday meeting to participate with you in one accord, to the reviving and restoration of their souls in greater Body ministry. This is the desire and the command of your Father and our sovereign General, Jesus, your Master and Savior." Baruch was then asked if he had anything to say and he said, “Your enemy has been defeated THIS NIGHT and has been placed under your feet. The power of your praise and worship to our God and your Savior Jesus has gone down to the very foundations of hell and has shaken it to its core. And they have risen to the throne room of our Great God and were incorporated with the praises of your brethren, the saints of Heaven, around His throne. Do not go back to the old ways. Be very vigilant not to fall backwards and lose the ground you've taken back from the enemy tonight or he will penetrate your ranks once more. Continue to walk in the Way and the re-dedication of yourselves in faithfulness to Jesus, your Master and Savior. You have put the enemy to flight this night. Do NOT cease from pursuing him and overtaking him. Do not give him time to re-group by relenting in the fight. Our Great General and your Savior, Jesus, is ordering His soldier Bride to report for duty. The training for the greatest revival ever witnessed by man-kind is now beginning. Don't fail to show up." (Eve said, i.e. don't go “AWOL” (absent without leave). We've been chosen or “drafted” to report for basic training at Ft. Revival. The Lord will be our strength and faithful to get us all in shape with His “Drill Sergeant angels”. I understood that they are all using military terms and imagery in order to stress the revelation of a soldier Bride to us, so that we can begin viewing ourselves in this way because the battle comes before the wedding. So we need to view the Bride as a warrior at the Man-child's side, fighting with the angels and not so much as the dainty, demure, passive figure in her wedding garments.) Then David invited Shemuel to say something and he said, “I have really enjoyed praising, worshipping, and lifting up our God and His Son, our Great General and King of all Kings with you all tonight. Many of the angels have joined in celebrating this event with you. I concur with Baruch's report to you all. Do not fall back. You all have orders to press forward. Also, remember to never leave your fellow soldiers (brethren) behind, struggling to keep up or wounded on the battlefield. This is a disgrace and a blot among earthly soldiers. It would never happen within our own ranks in the heavenly realms. We all follow the Code of Honor (the Word of God) in battle, laid down by our Great General and yours, Jesus, the Word of our God made flesh. Every one of you, from now on, will be on the “buddy system”. Choose a buddy or form a squad (a squad is a small group of 4 soldiers within a platoon of 30-35.) and make contingency plans for mutual help and support to strengthen your ranks. A platoon of soldiers is only as strong as its weakest member. Give of your time and gifts sacrificially in order to uphold one another in daily training and on the battlefield. Do not let any fall through the cracks. When the Holy Spirit of God places someone on your heart, get in touch with them as soon as possible. Don't hesitate to communicate with one another because, the enemy lurks and hides where the communications have broken down. Don't forget to deploy me abroad to continue fighting the enemies of UBM and all God's elect “both foreign and domestic.” This is my charge concerning UBM and all that pertains to her. I am also assigned to coordinate the with the angels in charge of the UBM missionaries overseas and have been given permission to introduce their names and their functions for the benefit of your greater understanding and their edification and understanding. David: We are no longer worried about the factions, but due to the fact that some of our missionaries are in countries that are strongly antichrist, we will hide their identity and nation in the following instructions from the angels. The angels who are over our missionaries in the Middle East are, Hananiah and Thaddeus. (Hananiah means, “Grace, Mercy, Gift of the Lord.” And Thaddeus means “God's gift”) Both of these are guardians as well as angels in charge of administering the gifts and provisions for the leadership and the saints in the Middle East.) The Angels over our missionaries in Africa are Uriah, Mengari, and Abijah, who is especially in charge over the orphanage and the children. He is in charge of ministering to their individual needs and protecting them. (Abijah means, "My Father is YAH (or God)”. Uriah is over the main UBM ministry there as a guardian angel of preservation and oversees the safe distribution and provision for the materials. (His name means, "The Lord is my light or fire.”) Mengari is an angel who administers the teaching anointing over the Pastor/teacher and those who are being raised up by him to be teachers also.” Select Language Afrikaans Albanian Amharic Arabic Armenian Assamese Aymara Azerbaijani Bambara Basque Belarusian Bengali Bhojpuri Bosnian Bulgarian Catalan Cebuano Chichewa Chinese (Simplified) Chinese (Traditional) Corsican Croatian Czech Danish Dhivehi Dogri Dutch Esperanto Estonian Ewe Filipino Finnish French Frisian Galician Georgian German Greek Guarani Gujarati Haitian Creole Hausa Hawaiian Hebrew Hindi Hmong Hungarian Icelandic Igbo Ilocano Indonesian Irish Italian Japanese Javanese Kannada Kazakh Khmer Kinyarwanda Konkani Korean Krio Kurdish (Kurmanji) Kurdish (Sorani) Kyrgyz Lao Latin Latvian Lingala Lithuanian Luganda Luxembourgish Macedonian Maithili Malagasy Malay Malayalam Maltese Maori Marathi Meiteilon (Manipuri) Mizo Mongolian Myanmar (Burmese) Nepali Norwegian Odia (Oriya) Oromo Pashto Persian Polish Portuguese Punjabi Quechua Romanian Russian Samoan Sanskrit Scots Gaelic Sepedi Serbian Sesotho Shona Sindhi Sinhala Slovak Slovenian Somali Spanish Sundanese Swahili Swedish Tajik Tamil Tatar Telugu Thai Tigrinya Tsonga Turkish Turkmen Twi Ukrainian Urdu Uyghur Uzbek Vietnamese Welsh Xhosa Yiddish Yoruba Zulu Powered by Translate Printer-friendly version
After Joseph and Mary had searched for Him [Christ] for three days, they found Him in the court of the temple, sitting in the midst of the doctors, both hearing them, and asking them questions.
This week we are so excited to welcome Josh Benson to the show! Josh is the worship leader at Jes' church– Forest Hill Church, where his passion for worshiping Jesus shines out of everything he does! In this interview, Josh reminds us of the gracious, loving, gentle character of The Lord. Josh encourages us to step out of our comfort zones, go to new places with God, and always keep Him (Christ) at the center. He encourages us, “You may feel like you're falling, but you will look back and see that every single step was worth it. Life is a series of next steps. Lean into God and release your fears to Him.” Click HERE for show notes! >>>Collecting stories that remind us of who God is and who we are in Him.To learn more about Collected Ministries email jes@collectedministries.org. For access to all episodes and show notes, please visit thecollectedpodcast.com.Follow us on Instagram!Collected @collectedministriesJes @jesbiondo for personal life and @sprezzafoundry for hand-letteringIf you believe in what God is doing through Collected, we would be so grateful for financial support! Go to collectedministries.org/donate to make a tax deductible gift. This episode of The Collected Podcast was recorded and edited by Jacob Early. Logo design by Ben Biondo.
Chaplain Don Moldstad was preacher for this service. Revelation 1: 17-18: When I saw Him (Christ), I fell at His feet as dead. But He laid His right hand on me, saying to me, “Do not be afraid; I am the First and the Last. I am He who lives, and was dead, and behold, I am alive forevermore. Amen. And I have the keys of Hades and of Death.”
Order of Service: - Prelude - The Versicles (pp. 109-110) - The Invitatory (p. 110) - The Venite exultimus (p. 111) - Revelation 1: 17-18: When I saw Him (Christ), I fell at His feet as dead. But He laid His right hand on me, saying to me, “Do not be afraid; I am the First and the Last. I am He who lives, and was dead, and behold, I am alive forevermore. Amen. And I have the keys of Hades and of Death.” - Hymn 343 - Christ Jesus Lay in Death's Strong Bands: vv. 1-3 - Devotion - Hymn 343 - Christ Jesus Lay in Death's Strong Bands: vv. 4 & 5 - The Kyrie (Lord have mercy) (pp. 116-117) - The Lord's Prayer (p. 117) - Prayer #63, p. 155 - The Benedicamus (p. 119) - The Benediction (p. 119) - Hymn 343 - Christ Jesus Lay in Death's Strong Bands: vv. 6 & 7 - Postlude Service Participants: Chaplain Don Moldstad (Preacher), Rev. Prof. Mark DeGarmeaux (Organist)
Jesus answered him, "Truly I tell you, today you will be with me in paradise." Luke 23:43 When Jesus was crucified, the thief on the right hand of the Cross believed that Jesus could turn it all around. He asked Jesus to remember him when He came into His kingdom. Jesus responded by telling him that he would be with Him in paradise that day. This story reminds us that no matter what mess we find ourselves in, if we believe in Jesus, He can turn it all around for us. He offers hope and healing in a world of hurt. We find that life is worth living again as we journey with Him. What you believe determines your life's worth. If you believe in God, you are not limited by anybody because God is the one who created all things and everything that exists. We all sinned; we all fall short of God's excellent standard. We deserve some punishment. Instead, God, the Father, sent His only Son into the world, that whosoever believes Him (Christ) will be redeemed, saved, and enjoy an abundant life. Christ came for salvation, and he did live the sinless life because of you and me; he shows us how to believe and serve a living God. John 3:15 says, "whoever believes in Jesus should not perish, but have eternal life." We deserve to die for our crimes, but Jesus died for our sins, taking upon himself the penalty that we deserve for our sins. We are not worthy of eternal life, but we have been made perfect by God's grace through faith in Jesus Christ to enjoy abundant and eternal life. Therefore, believing in Christ, Jesus will make you free from sin and death. It will also make you free from the evil desires of your heart. If believing in Jesus Christ changed the status of a thief on the right hand in the time of crucifixion from hellfire to life, he will do the same thing for you. No matter what you are going through, He will change it for your good. But remember, the only way out of hellfire is through repentance and faith in Christ Jesus Christ. I believe in Jesus Christ as my Lord and savior. What do you think? If you believe in Jesus, I am sure He will turn everything around for your good. Amen. John 1:12 says, "But as many as received him, to them gave he the power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name." Prayer: Thank God for the privileged of the day. Oh Lord, awaken my hunger to believe in the Word of God, fill my temple again till I want no more. I cut off every force pulling me back from growing spiritually in Jesus' name. https://maglife.org/ --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/divine-ojelade/support
“Whenever the living creatures give glory and honor and thanks to Him who sits on the throne, who lives forever and ever, the twenty-four elders fall down before Him who sits on the throne and worship Him who lives forever and ever, and cast their crowns before the throne, saying: "You are worthy, O Lord, To receive glory and honor and power; For You created all things, And by Your will they exist and were created." A good question to think about is why do you want to go to heaven? Many of us want to go to heaven so we don't have to go to hell. And honestly, there would be nothing wrong with that. But maybe a better motive would be to worship the Lord Jesus Christ. If you find worship boring down here and you are not interested in worshiping the Lord Jesus and expressing your heart's desire to Him, why in the world do you want to go to heaven? We are going to spend a lot of time up there worshiping Him. Heaven primarily will be a place of worship! We have already seen the four living creatures continuously worshipping day and night saying: “Holy, holy, holy, Lord God Almighty, Who was and is and is to come!” Now we are told that whenever the living creatures glorified God, the elders would fall before the throne and praise Him. The Book of Revelation is filled with hymns of praise. Over and over again we will see worship happening in the book of Revelation. Look up the following passages: (Rev. 4:8, 11; 5:9-13; 7:12-17; 11:15-18; 12:10-12; 15:3-4; 16:5-7; 18:2-8; 19:2-6). The emphasis on praise is significant when you remember that John wrote this book to encourage people who were going through suffering and persecution! The theme of this hymn in Revelation 4 is God the Creator, while in Revelation 5 the elders praise God the Redeemer. The praise in Revelation 4 is given to the Father on the throne, while in Revelation 5 it is directed to the Son (the Lamb) before the throne. The closing hymn (Rev. 5:13) is expressed to both, which is another proof of the deity of Jesus Christ. If the twenty-four elders typify the people of God in heaven, then we must ask, "Why should God's people praise God the Creator?" If the heavens are declaring the glory of God, why shouldn't God's heavenly people join the chorus? Creation bears constant witness to the power, wisdom, and glory of God. “The heavens declare the glory of God; And the firmament shows His handiwork.” (Psalm 19:1) Whenever we speak for the first time to an unreached people group in India we always begin by talking about the God who created the heavens and the earth and the God that made us! Acknowledging the Creator is the first step toward trusting the Redeemer. As Paul shared the gospel in Acts 14:8-18 at Lystra on his first missionary journey and later in Athens in Acts 17:22-34, he first proclaim God as creator of all things. When Paul wrote to the Colossian church he reminded them that: "All things were created by Him [Christ] and for Him ... and by Him all things consist [hold together]" (Colossians 1:16-17). Romans 1:18-25 clearly tells us that God has revealed Himself through His creation but sinful man worships and serves the creature rather than the Creator, and this is idolatry. Furthermore, sinful man has polluted and destroyed God's wonderful creation; and he is going to pay for it. Revelation 11:18 tells us one day God will destroy those who destroy the earth. Creation is for God's praise and pleasure, and man has no right to usurp that which rightfully belongs to God. Man plunged creation into sin, so that God's good creation (Genesis 1:31) is today a groaning creation (Romans 8:22); but because of Christ's work on the cross, it will one day be delivered and become a glorious creation (Romans 8:18-24).
Sometimes events in today's news compel us to cast our eyes upon Jesus as altogether superior a savior to anything that poor weak men can accomplish.----This week, a large part of the world was watching attempts to rescue a five year old boy named Rayan who fell down a well in Morocco and lodged at a depth of 100 feet below the ground.----They worked frantically for four days to dig him out of the well, using many strong and powerful men who had experience in construction, and large earth moving equipment. All the while, there was the danger of a collapse that would bury both the little boy and his rescuers.----There were crowds of neighbors looking on from nearby and supporting and helping in any way they could.----Around lunchtime Saturday, the news reported that the child had been retrieved from the well. Some of my Middle Eastern Facebook friends almost immediately reported that Rayan had not survived, but it took the press 3 hours to confirm that the child had died.----Sometimes no matter how much effort, strength, courage, heart, resources, support and goodwill there is, helpless lives are lost and cannot be rescued, not with all our might and determination.----This ought to turn every believer's heart to reflect on just how mighty our Lord Jesus is to save His loved ones-----Our thoughts on these matters have been so polluted by the false idea that Jesus tries to save everybody, but mostly He fails because lost men won't cooperate.----Does our Redeemer have a high failure rate------The answer from Scripture is certainly NO. Christ saves all of His sheep. He redeems every one that His Father has given Him-----Christ is God's Strong Arm to save all of His people-
Sometimes events in today's news compel us to cast our eyes upon Jesus as altogether superior a savior to anything that poor weak men can accomplish.----This week, a large part of the world was watching attempts to rescue a five year old boy named Rayan who fell down a well in Morocco and lodged at a depth of 100 feet below the ground.----They worked frantically for four days to dig him out of the well, using many strong and powerful men who had experience in construction, and large earth moving equipment. All the while, there was the danger of a collapse that would bury both the little boy and his rescuers.----There were crowds of neighbors looking on from nearby and supporting and helping in any way they could.----Around lunchtime Saturday, the news reported that the child had been retrieved from the well. Some of my Middle Eastern Facebook friends almost immediately reported that Rayan had not survived, but it took the press 3 hours to confirm that the child had died.----Sometimes no matter how much effort, strength, courage, heart, resources, support and goodwill there is, helpless lives are lost and cannot be rescued, not with all our might and determination.----This ought to turn every believer's heart to reflect on just how mighty our Lord Jesus is to save His loved ones-----Our thoughts on these matters have been so polluted by the false idea that Jesus tries to save everybody, but mostly He fails because lost men won't cooperate.----Does our Redeemer have a high failure rate-----The answer from Scripture is certainly NO. Christ saves all of His sheep. He redeems every one that His Father has given Him-----Christ is God's Strong Arm to save all of His people-
Hank Hanegraaff, president of the Christian Research Institute and host of the Bible Answer Man broadcast, exhorts us to pause for a moment in the midst of our busy-ness and ponder the majesty of the word Immanuel. It is simply incredible to consider that when Isaiah, the holiest man in ancient Israel, prophesied, “the virgin will be with child and will give birth to a son, and they will call him Immanuel” (Isaiah 7:14), he was literally predicting that in the future the One who spoke and the limitless galaxies leapt into existence would tabernacle in flesh among us. Indeed, that is precisely what the word Immanuel means—“God with us.” O Come let us adore Him—Christ the Lord! Merry Christmas to all!
Each podcast in the Songs Of The Season series will feature a Christmas hymn. Join me all month long as we dive into the background, context, and timeless truths of these beloved carols. O COME ALL YE FAITHFUL (SONGS OF THE SEASON)O come all ye faithful Joyful and triumphant O come ye O come ye to Bethlehem Come and behold Him Born the King of Angels O come let us adore Him O come let us adore Him O come let us adore Him Christ the Lord Sing choirs of angels Sing in exultation O sing all ye citizens of heaven above Glory to God All glory in the highest O come let us adore Him O come let us adore Him O come let us adore Him Christ the Lord Hallelujah Jesus is born He's the Savior of the world We rejoice with saints and angels Come and worship and adore Yea Lord we greet Thee Born this happy morning Jesus to Thee be all glory giv'n Word of the Father Now in flesh appearing O come let us adore Him O come let us adore Him O come let us adore Him Christ the Lord O come let us adore Him Christ the Lord Lyrics: C Frederick Oakley, John Francis WadeAdditional lyrics: Derek Charles JohnsonMelody: John Francis WadeLISTEN TO AND WATCH DEREK'S COVER OF THIS SONG: https://youtu.be/bYAyHDV40JwWATCH THE DEREK CHARLES JOHNSON - O COME ALL YE FAITHFUL (OFFICIAL MUSIC VIDEO): https://youtu.be/zaLPCZ3KKe4
Having Humility and Procuring Promises(Who are you coming agreement with?)It's the Lord's will to prune His children so they can bear much fruit (we bear fruit either by His Word or the devil's) and their fruit will remain. But until we get to that place of purging which requires us to humble ourselves, we will NOT be able to procure His promises! The reality is each day we make decisions consciously or not and come in agreement with someone or some thought. If the devil walked up to you tonight with a contract in his hand, you wouldn't even read it let alone sign it. Yet he comes as a deceiver talking in the sound of our own voice to get our signature.He knows that blessing or cursing is in our mouth! When we speak, we become the prophet of our own life with self-fulfilling prophecy!His M.O.: 1st, you experience a true trial in your life. Whatever it is, it's upsetting in your life. (Your praying things get worse – someone you trusted in let you down ECT…)2nd, the enemy whispers his words to you that seems to explain what you're feeling. (Worst day ever – God doesn't care – nobody understands)*Matthew 18:18-20 (KJV) Verily I say unto you, Whatsoever ye shall bind on earth shall be bound in heaven: and whatsoever ye shall loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven. 19 AGAIN I SAY UNTO YOU, THAT IF TWO OF YOU SHALL AGREE ON EARTH as touching any thing that they shall ask, it shall be done for them of my Father which is in heaven. 20 For where two or three are gathered together in my name, there am I in the midst of them*2 Corinthians 1:17-20 (KJV) When I therefore was thus minded, did I use lightness? or the things that I purpose, do I purpose according to the flesh, that with me there should be yea yea, and nay nay? [18] But as God is true, our word toward you was not yea and nay. [19] For the Son of God, Jesus Christ, who was preached among you by us, even by me and Silvanus and Timotheus, was not yea and nay, BUT IN HIM WAS YEA. [20] FOR ALL THE PROMISES OF GOD IN HIM ARE YEA, AND IN HIM AMEN, UNTO THE GLORY OF GOD BY US.Take note verse 20 "ALL the promises of God in Him are yea, and in Him amen":*2 Corinthians 1:20 (AMPC) For as many as are the promises of God, they all find their YES [answer] in Him [Christ]. For this reason we also utter THE AMEN (so be it) to God through Him [in His Person and by His agency] to the glory of God.God has a promise for everyone in every situation of life if we will humble ourselves and draw near Him with our coming in agreement then we can have His promises:*James 4:5-10 (KJV) Do ye think that the scripture saith in vain, The spirit that dwelleth in us lusteth to envy? [6] But he giveth more grace. Wherefore he saith, God RESISTETH {OPPOSES} the proud, but giveth grace unto the humble. [7] Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you. [8] Draw nigh to God, and he will draw nigh to you. Cleanse your hands, ye sinners; and purify your hearts, ye double minded. [9] Be AFFLICTED {REALIZE ONE'S OWN MISERY}, and mourn, and weep: let your laughter be turned to mourning, and your joy to heaviness. [10] Humble yourselves in the sight of the Lord, and he shall lift you up {John 12:32}.Note specifically verses:*James 4:6,10 (AMPC) But He gives us more and more grace ( power of the Holy Sp
Welcome to North Boston EC! Here, we are a family that seeks to love others the way Jesus loves us and raise people up in His love. We are grateful you are here. Regardless of who you are, you are always welcome here! We are pausing on our sermon series on the Sermon of the Mount in the book of Matthew! On September 26, 2021, we had the honor of having Pastor Jahvon Johnson preach on John 6:60-71 (“Do you believe Him: Christ”). We hope you were blessed by this message. Join us for service every Sunday in person at 11:30 am (EST). For safety precautions, all must be vaccinated and masked to enter. To connect with our North Boston family, check out our website at www.nbkumc.com, or find us on Instagram @northboston!
SwordPlay - S4E4 (ep.94) - 1 John 2 - Why does John call them his “little children?” (v.1) - Is it possible to not sin? (v.1) - Grammar Hammer: Propitiation (2; 4.10) - How is Jesus propitiation “for the sins of the whole world”? (2) - What does it mean to “know” Him (Christ)? (v.3-4) - How do we walk in the same manner that Jesus walked? (v.6) - What exactly is the new and old commandment John refers to? (v.7-8) - What does it mean to love and hate your brother? (v.9-11) - What does John mean when he calls the fathers, young men, and little children? (v.12-14) - Why does John alternate between past and present tense for his writing to them? (v.12-14) - Why do John's purpose statements seem redundant? (v.12-14) - Why does John say not to love the world but also that God loved the world? (v.15-17) - How is the world passing away? (v.17) - What is the last hour? (v.18) - Who is the Antichrist? (18, 22) - How did these (antichrists?) go out from them? (v.19) - What is the anointing? (20, 27) - What does it mean that these Christians know all things/have all knowledge? (v.20) - Why is confession of the Son connected to having the Father? (v.23) - What is John referring to regarding what they heard from the beginning? (v.24) - What does it mean to abide in the Son and the Father? (v.24, 28) - If they need no one to teach them then why do they have teachers? (v.27) - What is John referring to when he says, “when He appears?” (v.28) - What does it mean to be born of Him? (v.29) view our website: swordplay.cast.rocks Search "swordplay" in Apple Podcasts or your favorite podcast app. Please rate us, write a review, and re-post to social media Questions? Text 316-24-sword (79673) Email swordplaypodcast@gmail.com
Rev. Luke Ulrich, Mt. Olive Lutheran Church, Mankato was preacher for this service. Revelation 1: 17-18: When I saw Him (Christ), I fell at His feet as dead. But He laid His right hand on me, saying to me, “Do not be afraid; I am the First and the Last. I am He who lives, and was dead, and behold, I am alive forevermore. Amen. And I have the keys of Hades and of Death.”
It is written that ALL prayers are a 'yes' and 'amen' in Him (Christ) therefore what you want is already yours and it is already given. But yet it has not come to pass, why is that? Find out why in this episode as I also share with you the *key* to your answered prayer. You have a part to play in this co-creating element with God and I share with you what you need to do to receive what is rightfully yours through Jesus Christ. IT IS DONE!
We can all so quickly turn on one another, especially when the current climate already has us stressed. Now more than ever, it's vital that we understand and embrace our unity with one another through Jesus. In God's providence, this Sunday we come to a passage not merely about unity... but about union - union with Christ. How does that help us? Jesus gathered rich and poor, men and women, insiders and outsiders, rural and urban, Roman collaborators and Rome-haters - all under his one banner. How did he do it? What tangible hope does that offer us now? Discussion Questions what it is Paul says "in Him/Christ" 11 times in v.1-14. What kinds of bonds or relationships in our lives have anything close to this kind of solidarity, unification, or oneness? Describe the closest thing you have had to anything like this. What does Jesus mean by "in me" in John 17:22-23? “…That they may be one even as we are one, I in them and you in me, that they may become perfectly one…” Are there few or many examples of this actually happening? What's the best example of this principle at work from your experience? In John 16:7 Jesus said, “It is to your advantage that I go away, for if I do not go away, the Helper will not come to you.” How can it be to the disciples' "advantage" that Jesus leaves them? Has anyone's departure or passing ever empowered you to carry on their values or purpose in a more potent way than while they were with you in person? Ephesians 1:13-14 calls the Holy Spirit a "guarantee"? Who is the Holy Spirit? (John 14:16-20; Acts 16:6-7) What is the role of the Holy Spirit in our lives? (John 14:26; 16:13; 1 John 4:1-3) Russ said the Holy Spirit puts a spotlight on Jesus like a spotlight shines on a building – the point is to see the building, not the light source. How does the Holy Spirit function like that in your life, where He's unseen, but always functioning? This idea of "union with Christ" can be hard to get our heads around. Which of these other tangible images in the NT help you grasp it best? VINE: John 15:1-5. BODY: 1 Corinthians 12:12-27. TEMPLE: Ephesians 2:19-22. BRIDE: Ephesians 5:28-32. what it does List all that this “union with Christ” does for us, looking at 2 Corinthians 5:17-21. Which of these is most on your mind typically, and which of these was a needed reminder? Tell a story to illustrate what you mean. Out of Ephesians 1, how is union with Christ giving us a new past (v.4)? Does this new record in Christ truly free you, or are you restrained by something in your past? How does this new identity in Christ (v.7) free us from chasing significance and meaning? What are you prone to chase that's insignificant and meaningless? How does our new future in Christ (v.10) change our approach to suffering and/or our ambition? why it matters now If we have a new past, present and future. . . How does that help us navigate an increasingly polarized society? How does that confidence enable us to confess our failures openly? How does that help us to care for people who are hurting, especially when doing so will bring us discomfort? Read Galatians 2:20. How is this different from simply "looking within"? Read Philippians 2:12-13. What is the command in v.12? What is the resource we are given to accomplish that command in v.13? How does this "tension" keep us humble yet confident (1 Corinthians 1:27-31)?
I. Gray Area Battle Zone I'd like to ask that you turn in your Bibles to 1 Corinthians 8. As we look this morning, we'll be looking at the first half of the chapter, although I had the whole chapter read. And I am just so thankful for the word of God, I'm thankful for the privilege I have to minister the word of God. I thank you for its unchanging nature. The Bible gives absolutes. It gives unequivocal dos and don'ts, never changes, they're the same in every generation. You can look at the Ten Commandments that forbid certain things with no questions at all. We don't have to wonder about it. Such as worshipping other gods, or worshipping idols. Taking the name of the Lord in vain. Murder, adultery, theft, false testimony, coveting, these things are forever and all times unequivocally forbidden for us as Christians. We don't have to wonder about it. And there are other things not mentioned in the Ten Commandments that are also similarly forbidden for us as Christians. We shouldn't wonder, we don't need to wonder what the Bible teaches about fornication, about drunkenness, about materialism, about laziness or carnal anger, arguing and complaining. The Bible is very clear about these sins. The Bible also commands certain things clearly. Not just forbidden, but telling us that there are some things we must do. We must love the Lord our God with all of our heart, soul, mind, and strength. We must love our neighbor as ourselves. These things are unequivocal. We must read the Bible, feed on the word of God, and pray continually, pray every day. We should care for the poor and needy, we should share the Gospel with those in our lives that are lost. So those things are clear as well. What is clearly forbidden, and what is clearly commanded. There is no doubt whatsoever about these things. We just need to obey them by the Spirit. There's no debate about them. However, not everything is like that in the Christian life. There are gray areas, or debatable issues in daily life practice. There are things that Christians have struggled over, and debated over, and divided over. And these gray areas can become a battle zone between Christians. Now, I have to support that assertion from Scripture. Is there such a category as debatable issues in the Christian life? One pastor that I know and respect tends to see everything, everything black and white. There's no equivocal issues with him. There are no gray areas. And years ago there was a famous slogan in church history, which came out of the... I think the religious wars in Germany, as Protestants and Catholics were battling, and so this slogan came out, and it was this: "In essentials, unity. In non-essentials, liberty and in all things, charity." That was that slogan. Well it turns out that that saying was painted on the side of the church vans when this pastor I have in mind came and began his ministry. And he had them painted over. "There are no non-essentials" he said. So I think that's fascinating. I think it's actually important for us to see a kind of a hierarchy of certainty of truth. That there actually are core doctrinal issues we have absolute conviction about. And then it goes out from there. And the Bible itself has an entire chapter devoted to debatable issues. Romans chapter 14. Romans 14:1 says, "Accept him whose faith is weak without passing judgment on disputable matters." Disputable matters. So the whole chapter, Romans 14 is devoted to the proper resolution of these kinds of gray areas that are going to come up in Christian churches, in the Christian life. Disputable matters, doubtful issues, there are different translations. So Romans 14 in particular, I think, addresses issues that would've divided Jewish Christians from Gentile Christians. So the Roman Church was a combination church, Jewish Christians, Gentile Christians coming together to try to do local church life and there would be issues that would arise between them as the Gospel is spreading rapidly throughout the Roman world after the Jewish diaspora, they had been scattered from the Promised Land, and they were all over the Greco-Roman world. They had certain habits and patterns tied to the Old Covenant, and they'd been doing those for years. And so then the Gospel came along, and won some to Christ from both the Jewish community and from the Gentile community, and they had to come together and do church together, and so there would be issues. And these issues were sharp, and the debates were vigorous. Probably the most significant issue was, do the Gentile converts to Christ need to be circumcised and required to obey the ceremonial law of Moses in order to be saved? We have an entire book of the Bible, the Book of Galatians, devoted to answering that: Absolutely not. That the Gentile Christians do not need to be circumcised and required to obey the law of Moses in order to be saved. We have a whole chapter in the Book of Acts, Acts 15, the Jerusalem Council, which sought to resolve these kinds of issues. And so the Jerusalem Council came up with certain kind of dos and don'ts, practical rules of the road, to enable Jews and Gentiles together to get along, and to love one another, and to resolve certain things. And so they came up with a list of certain things that had to be addressed, and they did that. Present-Day Examples of Debatable Issues So, we have our own debatable issues, too. There are certain things in our lives that we're going to struggle over. Maybe some of them are like what they struggled over back then. For example, Sabbath Day regulations, or what you can and can't do on a Sunday. That's been difficult historically for certain Christian communities to resolve. Can we go to a restaurant on Sunday, can we play sports on a Sunday? You remember Chariots of Fire, how Eric Liddell didn't feel that he had the freedom to run on a Sunday. He came out of the Scottish Presbyterian background, and that was a very strong Sabbatarian background. But others have a freer approach to the Lord's day, and so there are debates. Then there's alcohol. Christians have frequently divided over the issue of alcohol. Some Christians completely abstain from drinking any fermented beverage, whereas other Christians feel freedom to partake in moderation. All Christians, Biblical Christians, reject drunkenness and drinking to affect your behavior morally. But the question is, can we partake in smaller, more measured doses? So, that's been an issue. Generally, a lot of these debatable issues come over the question of worldliness, what is worldly, what isn't. And so, engaging in the world, world's culture, what kind of movies you watch or don't watch, what kind of music you listen to or you refuse to listen to. I remember early in my Christian life, there were discussions in our campus ministry about whether it was right to listen to Christian rock music or not, or even secular rock, there'd be divisions about that. Nowadays, more recently, there's been discussions about the propriety of Christian rap. Christians have struggled with the kind of movies they'll watch and the movies that they would allow their children to watch, and those convictions might be different than another family, and that kind of comes to a head when there's sleepovers. So, there's all kinds of interesting discussions between the families and what kind of movies they will or won't allow their kids to watch. And that can be difficult. Then, there's social media. As we involve ourselves in Instagram and Snapchat and I don't know what's trendy or... Really, I'm not even going to try. I don't know what's in these days. Facebook. There, I said it. All of those things. I don't partake, I've never been on Facebook, but others... Can we get involved? Twitter, which just tends to defile many that get involved. That's another topic for another day, but just the ongoing debates are incredible. You want to know the kind of things that Christians wrangle over, Twitter is the place where they seem to be doing it. Then, there's clothing, the kind of clothing that we can or can't wear. I think, especially for women, there's a struggle, a desire to be pure, but there's certain prohibitions in the New Testament about braided hair and wearing gold jewels and fine clothes and how do you do that. But then, just parents, as they have kids growing up, want their kids to dress, want their children, their daughters to dress in way that honors and glorifies God. Then, there's the topic of education for children. Public school or government school education versus homeschooling versus private school. There's all kinds of debates and discussions about giving your children over to education or retaining it, the debates that go on with that. Even politics. This most recent Presidential election was very divisive within the Evangelical world, as the parties were very polarized, and Christians were talking like, "The lesser of two evils" or "Holding your nose and voting," others like, "No, I won't do that. I can only vote for an individual I actually could believe in, even if the person's not electable," all kinds of debates. And I'm sure I'm stirring you up. You want to know what you think about all these things. "I want an answer, I want answers on all of this." Well, I'm just saying, there are these debatable issues. And so, for me, as a preacher, knowing that Paul is going to devote three full chapters, friends, to meat sacrificed to idols, and you're thinking, "Not a problem for us." You're thinking you're going to get three chapters off, especially given the choppy waters we've been sailing through the last number of chapters. And I will confess that I had similar feelings of ease and comfort, having made it through finally some of the issues that we've been through. But not at all, all Scripture is God-breathed and useful. And these debatable issues keep coming up. John MacArthur, one preacher that I respect and have listened to, he talked about how, early in... When he first came to Christ, he was out in the Southern California scene, and they did a lot of beach outreaches and did a lot of things like that, and they had bonfires and that. It was part of that Jesus movement that happened out there. But one thing they were adamant about was tobacco, the abuse of tobacco, and that it was just absolutely defiling to the body. But then, he, his first ministry preaching was in a tobacco-growing area in the South, in the Bible Belt. And those people were adamant against mixed bathing, that you would never, ever have young men and women together at a pool party, or something like that. And so, there were these issues, but they had different convictions, it seems, on tobacco use. Charles Spurgeon, speaking of tobacco use, was fond of a cigar from time to time. And he actually preached a sermon at Metropolitan Tabernacle on the danger of little sins as little foxes that ruin the vineyard. Well, there was a well-known American preacher that was there, kind of a guest of honor, Dr. George Pentecost, that was his name, and he was invited to speak a few words to the congregation. And he got up and launched in vigorously on the dangers of tobacco smoking, which Spurgeon hadn't brought up at all in his sermon on little sins that ruin the vineyard. So he goes on and he was thankful, Dr. Pentecost was thankful that God had delivered him from such a wretched and vile habit. Well, it was Spurgeon's home church and he got the final word, as he will do. And he got up and he said, "I just need to say that I just don't believe that smoking tobacco is a sin, and frankly, before I go to bed this very night, I'm going to enjoy a cigar to the glory of God." And that became a slogan tied to him, "Enjoying a cigar to the glory of God." Someone once asked him, "How much do you know if you're smoking too much?" He said, "If you ever see me ever smoking more than one cigar at exactly the same time, you'll know that I've crossed the line." Now, of course, in Spurgeon's day, the doctors, the physicians, didn't have the same sense of understanding of what tobacco does to the body that we do today, so things have become a little bit clearer. But there are still debatable issues, and we need some rules of the road in a local church. We need to know how we navigate so we don't drive each other crazy, and so we can come to holiness and unity on these things. II. Corinthian Context: Meat Sacrificed to Idols So, the context here, as I've mentioned, is meat sacrificed to idols. Look at chapter 8 verse 1, "Now about food sacrificed to idols." So, Paul is in a section of the Epistle in which he is bringing up issues that they have raised with him in their letters to him. So, he's addressing their issues, they'd asked him. And as I said, for three chapters, 1 Corinthians 8, 9 and 10, all three of those are under the auspices of answering this question, this issue of meat sacrificed to idols. And let me give you the principle I'm going to give you again and again over the next number of times that we look at 1 Corinthians, God willing, and that is, you have freedoms, you have privileges, you have rights, fine. But love limits liberty. Love limits liberty, the exercise of your freedom. So we're going to see this theme again and again, but just let's lodge it in our minds. Love limits your freedoms, the exercise of your freedoms. Meat and the Pagan Religions Alright, so let's look at the Corinthian context, and try to understand what they were going through. The context there was pagan religion, the background of paganism, of pagan religion there in Corinth. The Greeks, like the Romans, were polytheistic. They believed in many gods and goddesses, and these gods and goddesses had different areas of jurisdiction, kind of like a massive government agency, where you have the Bureau of this, and Bureau of that, etcetera. So these gods and goddesses would run different parts of everyday life. And so there would be a god of love, a god of war, a god of the harvest, a god of family life, of relationships, of everything, all kinds of things. Cities even had patron gods and goddesses. Like Athens, the city of Athens, had Athena, the goddess of wisdom as their patron deity. She would protect the city, so they believed. They worshiped these gods and goddesses at different shrines and temples. And when they did that, they frequently used animal sacrifice, just like the Jews did, animal sacrifice. And the meat from the sacrifice would be divided into three portions. One portion would be burned up as an offering to the deity. A second portion would be taken by the priest pretty much as his fee. Now, he wouldn't need all the meats that he would receive in a day, so he had a cottage industry of bringing the meat sacrificed to idols to the marketplace where it would be sold after it had been an offer to a god or goddess. And he would receive some of his income from that meat. And the third portion would be taken home by the worshiper himself to eat with his family. Keep in mind, there was no refrigeration back then. And so this is how the people would eat meat. And so this would set up the issue. All of this meat had been offered to a god or goddess by the time that it was going to be eaten. Now beyond their polytheism, the Greeks also believed in many demons, evil spirits, who could light on meat like flies, spiritually. And the only way the meat could be cleansed was if it was offered, properly offered, to a god or goddess. Now their paganism, as I've said, extended to every area of life. So there would be continual requirements for offerings. And people lived in perpetual fear of offending one god or goddess or another. So it was just a regular part of life with these offerings to the gods. The Gospel Came to Corinth Now, the Gospel came to Corinth through the ministry of the apostle Paul, and a number of individuals were rescued out of satanic darkness into the beautiful light of the Gospel. So the Corinthian Christians had been recently rescued from this pagan lifestyle, this wicked pagan lifestyle, and they had fresh memories of their habits at the temple. And this included as I've mentioned in 1 Corinthians 6, temple prostitution. So not only would they be eating meat, but there would also be sexual immorality connected with their worship of the gods and goddesses. And so this wicked, this dark corrupt lifestyle was a thing of their recent past. They had just been converted out of all of that. Not only that, the paganism was woven into every aspect of their social life horizontally with people that lived in their city. So if they were going to befriend other people, Christians, I mean, befriending non-Christians and they would... The non-Christians, the pagans, would have them over for dinner almost certainly they would serve them meat that had been sacrificed to idols. And so the question the Corinthians are asking is, "What do we do about all this? How can we understand that?" At social times like that you could well imagine if the Christians were to abstain entirely or bring their own dinner to someone else's house, how offensive that would be. And so, it was just difficult to know how to live. Now beyond this and very relevant to the text we're looking at today, some more mature, more advanced Corinthian Christians, more doctrinally advanced, had come to a solid orthodox understanding of idolatry and all of this whole system, and had just kind of graduated beyond being concerned about this. And they were flaunting their freedoms. They like meat, they eat meat, which didn't bother them, and they did not understand what effect they as the more advanced or the more mature, the mentors, the leaders in the church were having on the younger Christians. So Paul has to write this section and address this. III. “We All Possess Knowledge” Now he begins in verse 1, look at it with me. He says: "Now about food sacrificed to idols, we know that we all possess knowledge." So he's speaking to the knowledgeable Christians, the more doctrinally mature Christians. I'm not just going to call them mature because there's a deficiency in their sanctification, but he's addressing the more knowledgeable Christians. He said, "We know that we all possess knowledge." They have the right theology, but they're living it out in the wrong way. Well, what knowledge did they have? Look at verses 4-6: "So then, about eating food sacrificed to idols: We know that an idol is nothing at all in the world and that there is no God but one. For even if there are so-called gods, whether in heaven or on earth, as indeed there are many gods and many lords, yet for us there is but one God, the Father, from whom all things came and for whom we live; and there is but one Lord, Jesus Christ, through whom all things came and through whom we live." So what knowledge did they have? Well, first of all, we know that idols don't really exist spiritually. There's no actual spiritual reality connected with the idol itself. Verse 4, "We know that an idol is nothing at all in the world and that there is no God but one." So these Corinthian Christians have fully accepted Paul's doctrine that there is one and only one God, and that the idols that have been made by craftsmen are just physical things, there's nothing there. The gods and goddesses aren't in the idol, there's nothing to them, they're just chunks of matter. The Jews have known this, or should have known it at least for centuries. In Psalm 115:4-8, it says, "Their idols are silver and gold made by the hands of men. They have mouths, but cannot speak, eyes, but they cannot see, they have ears, but cannot hear. Noses, but they cannot smell, they have hands but cannot feel, feet, but they cannot walk. Nor can they utter sound with their throats. Those who make them will be like them and so will all who trust in them." Idols Don’t Really Exist Spiritually So this is the first point we could say that Paul says, "We know, we know this about idols." And the more mature Christians have their theology right, so they're knowledgeable about this. And these more mature, so to speak, Christians can walk through the marketplace or walk through the temple grounds even and look around and say, "This whole thing is emptiness. There's nothing here, the idols are nothing." They knew that. And they could just walk through as though they had a bubble of protection around them, because they knew there's nothing to it. There is One God and Only One God Secondly, we know that there is one God and there is only one God. So not only are the idols nothing, we know this, there is one God and there is only one God, that's more important than the physical idols. Far more important. There is a God who exists, who made heaven and earth, this one God wants to have a relationship with us. He loves us, He created us and wants to have a relationship with us. He yearns after us and He is a Holy God, this God is light and in Him there is no darkness at all, this one God that exists. And this one God, the Scripture reveals, is a jealous God, He will not allow us to worship other gods, and goddesses. He's forbidden all idolatry. He is spirit. You cannot make any representation of this one God. So all material representations of this one true God are false and misleading. It says in Deuteronomy 5:8-9, "The Lord God said to His people 'You shall not make for yourself an idol in the form of anything, in heaven above, or the earth beneath, or the waters below, you shall not bow down to them or worship them. For I, the Lord, your God, am a jealous God.'" The Many Gods of the Gentiles are So-Called Gods... Not Real At All Thirdly, we know, what do we know Paul? Well, we know therefore that the many gods and goddesses of the Gentiles are just so-called gods, they're just gods and so-called lords in the heavenly realms. They're in name only, they don't really exist. Look at verse 5 and 6, "For even if there are so-called gods," right there in the Greek text, they're named gods. You could put like quotation marks around it, "whether in Heaven or on Earth, as indeed there are many so-called gods and many so-called lords, yet for us there is but one God." So it's not a syncretism thing where we're taking the God of the Jews, and adding Him to the pantheon of the Greek and Roman gods and goddesses. None of them exist actually, none of them. So the various names of the gods and goddesses that these Greeks were very familiar with such as Zeus, Hera and Hermes, Aphrodite, Apollo, Athena, Aries and all the rest, they don't exist, and all of the stories attached to their doings are just myths, they're just made up, they're fiction. So these gods and goddesses don't really exist. Now, it's important to hold in mind, we're not going to develop it today, but I want you to hold this in mind. Paul does assert that there is a demonic presence behind all of this. We need to keep that in mind. There actually is a real spiritual presence behind the false religions of the world. In chapter 10, verse 20, he said, "The sacrifices of pagans are offered to demons, not to God, and I do not want you to be participants with demons." So demons are god and goddess impersonators and have, from time to time, been permitted by the true God to do supernatural things to mislead people into false religions. I think that's true, and it's going to be even worse at the end of the world with the antichrist. We'll get to that in another time, we've already talked about it in the past. The Physical World in Which We Live Was Created by God... Including the Food We Eat Fourthly, we know that the physical world that we live in was created by God, including the food that we eat, was created good by God. Look at Verse 6, "For us there is but one God, the Father from whom all things came and for whom we live, and there is but one Lord, Jesus Christ, through whom all things came and through whom we live." So this is the theology, Paul's taking the opportunity to teach true theology. There is one God, the Father, the Creator of the ends of the earth, the maker of all things visible and invisible, and from Him we derive our existence. As he said to the Athenians, "In Him, we live and move and have our being." And for Him, all things exist, we exist for His pleasure and for His glory. And He made all physical things, in Genesis 1 He made everything physical and called it good, very good. And for us, there is one Lord, Jesus Christ, through whom God made all things, and through whom we live. So in a marvelous, mysterious inter-trinitarian partnership, God the Creator created all things for Himself, and He did that through Jesus, that Jesus is the Word through whom all things were made. And without Him, nothing was made that has been made. And it is in Jesus, who is God's final Word to the human race, it says that God the Father has spoken to us by His Son through whom He made the universe. So, Jesus is the Word of God by which God the Creator made all things Meat is Also Created by God Now, this includes the meat, so the meat is just meat, that's all it is, it's just meat. And what that means is the meat cannot catch a spiritual virus. Now, it can catch other types of things, it's a different matter. But in terms of the actual meat you're not going to have any spiritual problem eating meat, meat is just meat, it's all it is. Now, we all know this, Jesus declared all foods clean, while He was still alive. So what that meant is for the Jews, all of those dietary regulations have been fulfilled in Christ. They've been obsolete. So Jewish Christians can eat pork, they can eat anything that they want, anything that they desire. And so all foods have been declared clean. You remember how Peter was getting ready to go preach the Gospel to the gentile Cornelius, and God sent him a vision of a sheet, let down from heaven, with all kinds of four-footed animals and reptiles, and birds of the air, all kinds, and a voice came from heaven saying, "Get up Peter, kill and eat." And Peter as he always tended to do said, "Surely not, Lord." Bad idea, don't say, "Never Lord" Alright? . When the Lord tells you to do something, just do it. But that was Peter, he did it four times, Never Lord, Never Lord, that's just him. Even after Pentecost, he's still doing that, "Surely not Lord, I have never eaten anything impure or unclean." And the voice spoke from heaven a second time. "Do not call anything unclean that God has made clean." So, all foods are clean, so meat's just meat and all foods are clean. IV. Loveless Knowledge Puffs Up Alright, so that's the knowledge that Paul says we all have. That's the orthodox doctrine. But now he's going to talk about knowledge. Look again at verse 1. "Now about food sacrificed to idols: We know that we all possess knowledge. Knowledge puffs up, but love edifies or love builds up." It's not enough to just know orthodox doctrine, you have to go beyond that, you have to unite your doctrine with love, you have to unite your doctrine with obedience. Jesus said, "You know these things, you'll be blessed if you do them." You can't like the Book of James be somebody who hears the word and doesn't obey. So he's talking about knowledge. Now, you need to understand, Paul's not against knowledge at all. Everywhere he went, home base for his ministry was pouring out biblical knowledge, scriptural knowledge. He taught everyone the knowledge of the truth that leads to godliness, that's what he did, he wrote the Book of Romans, think about that. He was not against doctrine or knowledge, he was all in favor. All he would say is that knowledge is necessary but not sufficient. It's not enough, you have to go beyond it. Knowledge must be supplemented by love. If all you have is knowledge, you don't move out into loving your neighbor as yourself, then it's a dead end and you just acquired all of that knowledge to puff yourself up, to make yourself arrogant, to feel superior to other people, and knowledge can do that. Paul later in this same epistle will somewhat rebuke the Corinthians concerning this matter of love, of knowledge without love. 1 Corinthians 13:2, "If I have the gift of prophecy, and can fathom all mysteries and all knowledge, but if I have not love, I am nothing." He's very clear about that. So these Corinthians were flaunting their freedoms based on their accurate doctrinal knowledge and they were forgetting the effect that it was having on others, weaker Christians who are not ready to handle those freedoms. The Corinthian’s Knowledge Was Woefully Inadequate Now, look at verse two, their knowledge actually was woefully inadequate. "The man who thinks he knows something, does not yet know as he ought to know." That's quite a statement, isn't it? If you think you know something, you don't know anything. So that's amazing. Honestly, at one sense it really should be true. The more you know, the more you know that you don't know. Does that make sense? Maybe I should say it again slower. No, don't do that, that will be worse. The more you know, the more you know that you don't know, what do I mean by that? I'm saying it's an ignorant person who thinks that he or she has a subject mastered. I remember years ago, we homeschooled our kids, and years ago, one of our kids, won't say his name... But anyway, one of our kids years and years ago, finished his first unit of Math and said to me, as I came home from work, "Daddy, I know everything there is to know about Math." Well, having gone to MIT, an engineer and all that, I knew that he didn't. And I knew that he had a long journey, and that Math is pretty much, as far as I know, an infinite railroad track that everybody gets off at some point. But I didn't want to crush him, I said, "Oh, that's wonderful, good for you." And that's what you do as a dad. I remember when I was a student at MIT, one of my jobs was inspecting fire extinguishers and I was brought down into the basement of the Humanities library, just one of eight major libraries there at MIT. I think between Harvard and MIT they might have 90% of the Library of Congress there in terms of volumes. But they didn't have the space for everything, so they had a discard stack down there in the basement. And there were more books discarded from the Humanities library than I even knew possibly could exist. And I'm walking through there, and I saw some book and just being a curious sort, I pulled it off the shelf, and it was in the Humanities library, so it was some kind of humanities study of a subject I knew, I didn't even know existed. And it was 500 pages long and someone therefore was an expert at something I knew nothing about. And not only that, this expert was now obsolete, there was a better expert upstairs, and I realized that as far as my eyes could see down in that subterranean basement, there are books just like that. So, education is basically, you're moving from unknowing ignorance, to knowing ignorance. The more you go on, the more you find out what you don't know. But actually, let's get more specific than about just general knowledge. Let's talk about knowledge of God. If you're impressed with your own knowledge of theology, you don't really know God very well. You don't know God very well. And as a matter of fact, God can, if He were gracious to you, move out and humble you. You remember the end of the book of Job? Do you remember when God begins speaking to Job after all of that wisdom, that Job's been pouring out? Job's a very wise man. Remember how God begins, starts in with Job, speaking to him out of the whirlwind? "Who is this that darkens wisdom by speaking words without knowledge? Brace yourself like a man, strengthen yourself and I will speak to you. Where were you when I laid the Earth’s foundation?" And He goes on like that for chapters. So God, with His infinite knowledge, His omniscience, has the ability to humble us. The better we know God, we understand the fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom. And knowledge of the Holy, the Holy One, is understanding. So our knowledge of God really ought to humble us. Remember how Job answered Him? He said to God at the end, he said, "You asked, 'Who is this that obscures my counsel by speaking words without knowledge?' Surely, I spoke of things I did not understand, things that were too wonderful for me. You said, 'Listen now, and I will speak, I will question you, and you shall answer me'. My ears had heard of you, but now my eyes have seen you, and therefore I despise myself and repent in dust and ashes." That's what really knowing God will lead you to, to being humble. But apart from that, your education in Theology, your education in any subject will make you arrogant, it will puff you up. What's really more important than how much, whether you know God or how much you know God, is the question, will God know you on Judgment Day? That's the real question, isn't it? You know, in Matthew 7, Jesus said, "Many will say to Me on Judgment Day, Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in your name and in your name drive out demons and perform many miracles? Then I will tell them plainly, 'I never knew you. Away from me, you evildoers.'" Now He knew them very well, He knew all about them, but He didn't know them. And so Paul says, "The man who loves God is known by God." So let me just stop and say, is that true of you as you listen to my sermon, do you know that Christ knows you? Have you trusted in Christ as your Lord and Savior? Have you come to Christ as Andrew did, and as Darian did? Have you come to Christ and repented of your sins, and asked Him to be your Savior? Have you found forgiveness of sins? That's the knowledge, that Christ will own you as His own because you have come to Him through faith, and trusted in Him. That's what's more important. Now for us who have made that commitment, we have to go beyond just mere doctrinal knowledge. Our church, I think, is a very knowledgeable church doctrinally, and I fear that there might be some of you that need to hear, "Knowledge puffs up but love builds up." I think you need to hear it, I know I need to hear it. It's not enough to just be sharp doctrinally, have all the right answers. The question is, are we loving horizontally to people around us in our lives? Knowledge puffs up, but love edifies or builds up. Now, these Christians had been flaunting their freedoms. And they were forgetting the effect that it was having on other people. The new converts had overpowering memories of their recent lives as pagans. They remembered all the times worshipping the gods and goddesses, feeding on the meat, even indulging in sexual immorality, these were fresh bitter memories for them. And only recently had their consciences been cleansed through faith in Christ. They thought they could never feel like this, clean, pure, but now as they're getting involved in church life, there's some people further along than them, that are leaders in the church that are just doing whatever they want with this meat issue. And they're going, they're walking right into the marketplace and eating whatever, going even into the temple, it didn't matter to them. And they were flaunting their freedoms. And so Paul says, in verse 7, "Not everyone possesses this knowledge," not everyone really understands it like they need to know. Some people are still so accustomed to idols that when they eat such food, they think of it as having been sacrificed to an idol. And since their conscience is weak, it is defiled, they cannot eat that food with a clear conscience. And yet they eat anyway. And Paul says, your brother, for whom Christ died, is devastated by your knowledge. So in the upcoming weeks, beginning next week, we're going to develop more of this concept. But the basic idea here is, do not flaunt your freedoms, be mindful of who's watching, who's around when it comes to the exercise of your Christian freedoms. V. Applications Let's talk about some applications. I mentioned just a moment ago how grateful I am that our church is so characterized by strong biblical knowledge, for the most part. I think it would be good for us to be humbled about that, for us to realize that if we think we know anything, we don't really know as we ought to know. Our knowledge should make us humble. I'm not saying don't pursue knowledge. The answer isn't read less Bible, read less theology, that's not the answer. The question is, are we combining our right doctrinal knowledge with obedience? Are we doing the things He's told us to do, and are we combining it with love for others? Are we building up the edifice of the body of Christ? Some Basic Rules of the Road: Questions to Ask Yourself About Any Habit (from John MacArthur) Now, in terms of these debatable issues, I was listening to a sermon by John MacArthur, and he does a phenomenal job on all of these questions. And I want to just borrow from him, some practical advice that I found helpful and I'll just get out of the way and let him teach us. On basic rules of the road, questions to ask yourself about any habit in which you're indulging. First of all, the question of excess, all of these begin with the letter E. Excess, is this habit hurting my walk with Christ? Am I addicted, am I doing it to excess, or is it baggage that God wants me to cut out of my life? Is it a weight that the author to Hebrews would call on me to lay aside, so I can run the race with endurance? Is this an excess in my life, this freedom? Secondly, Expedience. Is this thing that I'm doing actually helpful for building up the body of Christ? Is it useful, is it beneficial, is it helpful? Paul says in 1 Corinthians 10:23, "All things are lawful for me, but not all things are expedient," or beneficial... Expedient. Thirdly, emulation. In doing this, am I imitating what I see in Christ? It's somewhat like the question, "What would Jesus do?" Can I see Jesus doing this habit pattern that I'm indulging in? 1 John 2:6, it says, "Whoever claims to live in Him [Christ] must walk as Jesus did." So, emulation, in doing this, that I'm doing, am I emulating Jesus? Fourthly, evangelism. Will this habit, this practice in my life, enhance my witness to onlooking non-Christians? Will this habit actually help my testimony or will it hinder it? Will this help me lead people to Christ or will it actually hinder me? Colossians 4:5 says, "Be wise in the way you act toward outsiders, making the most of every opportunity." Outsiders are watching, would you feel comfortable, outsiders watching you, as you do this action or this habit? Fifth, Edification. Will this action or habit build up other Christians who might see me do it? Will they be made stronger by imitating me, watching me? 1 Corinthians 10:23, "All things are lawful, but not all things edify." Six, exaltation. Does this action glorify God? Can I actually offer this activity up in thankfulness to God, with a clear conscience? 1 Corinthians 10:31, "So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all to the glory of God." And then finally, example. Would I feel comfortable if my children or a new disciple, a convert that I'm having the privilege to disciple, emulated or imitated me? Am I setting a good example here? Or would I want to say to some degree, "Do as I say, not as I do"? So I think those are seven very helpful principles. Let's close in prayer.
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