Welcome

April 2025 is now posted.

We will be posting the Glorious Gospel articles individually below. A PDF file (large print) can be downloaded under the Archives tab and printed if desired, as well as past editions.

 Perfect

Gordon Crook, Pastor

Grace Assembly, Wichita, Kansas

“The law of the LORD is perfect, converting the soul: the testimony of the LORD is sure, making wise the simple. The statutes of the LORD are right, rejoicing the heart: the commandment of the LORD is pure, enlightening the eyes. The fear of the LORD is clean, enduring for ever: the judgments of the LORD are true and righteous altogether.” Psalms 19:7-9

There are six things here that we learn about the Word of God and about the fear of the Lord that comes from knowing His Word.

Perfect – complete, whole, entire, sound 1e) what is complete or entirely in accord with truth and fact.

God’s Word is complete and sound. It is all that man needs to come to salvation. It gives God’s righteousness and God’s grace and mercy in the most complete way. By it we learn our failing and God’s provision for us.

When we understand our complete inability to rescue ourselves from our sinful nature, God’s Word will convert (turn us around) to God who will save us. We find the simplicity of salvation here: “And brought them out, and said, Sirs, what must I do to be saved? 31, And they said, Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, and thou shalt be saved, and thy house.” Acts 16:30-31

Sure – confirmed, established, sure

God’s Word is established. He has proven it over and over again. He confirms it to us in our own experience with Him. The surety of God’s Word gives us hope. “That by two immutable things, in which it was impossible for God to lie, we might have a strong consolation, who have fled for refuge to lay hold upon the hope set before us: Which hope we have as an anchor of the soul, both sure and stedfast, and which entereth into that within the veil;” Hebrews 6:18-19

While the world is certain they know how to gain wisdom, they will not find true wisdom as it is only found in God’s Word. If we will spend time in His Word and ask Him, he will truly give us wisdom. “Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom; teaching and admonishing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with grace in your hearts to the Lord.” Colossians 3:16 “And that from a child thou hast known the holy scriptures, which are able to make thee wise unto salvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus. “2 Timothy 3:15

Right – uprightness, righteous, upright straight, level

We understand that God is righteous and He is upright. What God says and what God does is always right. The reason this rejoices our heart is because we recognize that we do not have to wonder if God will do the right thing or treat us correctly. We may not know about other persons and how they will act, but we can always know how God will act. “Therefore I esteem all thy precepts concerning all things to be right; and I hate every false way.” Psalms 119:128 “Thy words were found, and I did eat them; and thy word was unto me the joy and rejoicing of mine heart: for I am called by thy name, O LORD God of hosts.” Jeremiah 15:16

Pure – pure, clean, sincere (intention, the heart)

Purity is something we tend to strive for, but often is just not possible. In a world tainted by sin, purity is just hard to come by. When we come to God’s Word, we find a pure light that is enlightening. “The words of the LORD are pure words: as silver tried in a furnace of earth, purified seven times.” Psalms 12:6 “Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path.” Psalms 119:105 “The entrance of thy words giveth light; it giveth understanding unto the simple.” Psalms 119:130

Clean – pure, clean (ceremonially, physically)

The fear of the Lord is what brings us to faith in Him which is the beginning of something very clean and pure as we put our trust in Jesus. “By mercy and truth iniquity is purged: and by the fear of the LORD [men] depart from evil.” Proverbs 16:6. “Having therefore these promises, dearly beloved, let us cleanse ourselves from all filthiness of the flesh and spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of God.” 2 Corinthians 7:1

True – stability, certainty, truth, trustworthiness

Truth is something that is very much missing today. It has become common to define as truth whatever a person wants to be true. This is why it is so important to understand the truth of God’s Word. It is proven to be truth. It is not subjective. In God’s Word we will find the truth about our sinful nature, as well as the truth about God’s providence to free us from that nature. “Search the scriptures; for in them ye think ye have eternal life: and they are they which testify of me.” John 5:39. “For the word of God is quick, and powerful, and sharper than any twoedged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart.” Hebrews 4:12. “For this cause also thank we God without ceasing, because, when ye received the word of God which ye heard of us, ye received it not as the word of men, but as it is in truth, the word of God, which effectually worketh also in you that believe.” 1 Thessalonians 2:13

God’s Word is all of these and more. It is all we need to guide us in this life. We can trust God’s Word completely. I highly recommend reading, studying and knowing God’s Word. 

  In loving memory of Anita Clark

We will certainly miss her, but comforted to know she is in the arms of Jesus her Lord and Savior. She went to glory March 13. She had called me just a couple of days before to tell me she had sent her April article for Glorious Gospel magazine. She was faithfully serving God to the very end, very active in being Pastor of Grace Chapel, Carbondale, Kansas and also several weekly Bible Studies at their locations, and writing articles monthly, also preparing recording to be sent out to others, etc. Although she had contributed articles in passing years, in May of 1990 my Husband Jack Davis asked her to become a regular monthly writer of Glorious Gospel. She wrote “The Last Days” article for years, followed by good teaching articles that everyone has enjoyed. I could say much more about her, I loved her. We will print the last article she sent for the April issue. 

Earlene Davis, editor

SANCTIFICATION

By Anita Clark

The word “Sanctification” is only used in the New Testament four times by Apostle Paul and once by the Disciple Peter. It means, “separation, consecration, setting apart and to make holy and to purify.” 

In the Old Testament God called Aaron, Moses’ brother, to be the High Priest. Aaron was of the tribe of Levi, whom God had ordained to be the priests and leaders for the Tabernacle, and to be separated unto the Lord and His work- a picture of sanctification. 

Two Phases of Sanctification - The first phase is God’s Provision . The second phase is The Practical Side. Jesus said in John 17:19 - “His prayer to His Father right before He went to the garden of Gethsemane with the disciples.” He prayed to His Father, “And for their sake (speaking of those who believed in Him) I sanctify myself that they might be sanctified.” Did you know you are “sanctified.” The word “sanctified” means “to be holy, purify, consecrate,” also “venerate, revere, respect, glorify and honor.” Our God “sanctifies” us. 

Hebrews 10:5,9, & 10. - Verse 9-10 says, “Then said He (Jesus), Lo I come to do thy will, O God, ... By the which will we are sanctified through the offering of Jesus Christ once for all.” The word “sanctify” means -”to make holy, purify or consecrate or sanctify.” The penalty was paid by Jesus Christ’s death, so in a Spiritual sense, sanctification is provided for all who believe. We have the spiritual life of Christ in us - a new birth, born again. Hebrews 13:12 states, “Wherefore Jesus also, that He might sanctify, the people with His own blood, suffered without the gate.” Romans 8:16 tells us, “The Spirit Himself beareth witness with our spirit, that we are the children of God.”

Reading from I Thessalonians 2:13-14, Apostle Paul wrote, “But we are bound to give thanks alway to God for you, brethren beloved of the Lord, because God hath from the beginning hath chosen you to salvation through sanctification of the Spirit and belief of the truth.” Note this: “Before the foundation of the world, we were in His plan and mind.” The word “sanctification” again means “separation, consecration and setting apart.” Verse 14 tells us, “Whereunto He called you by our gospel (Apostle Paul’s teaching) to the obtaining of the glory of our Lord Jesus Christ.” Benefits - of our believing = 1. Eternal salvation 2. Made new in Christ, and new life of Christ in us. 3. Set apart to God. 4. Positioned in Christ.

I Corinthians 6: 9-11 speaks from Apostle Paul concerning the “unrighteous” who shall not inherit the kingdom of God. In verse 11, he says, “And such were some of you; but ye are washed, but ye are sanctified, but you are justified in the name of the Lord and by the Spirit of our God.” We find everything in Christ! I Cor. 1:30 tells us, “But of Him are ye in Christ Jesus, who of God is made unto us wisdom and righteousness and sanctification.” This word means, “purity, purifier, or holiness.”

 

BENEFITS of our believing - 1. Eternal salvation 2. Made new in Christ - New life in Christ 3. Set apart to God 4. Positioned in Christ.

Experimental Sanctification - Deliverance from the power of sin. Colossians 3:1-5 says “If ye then be risen with Christ, seek those things which are above, where Christ sitteth on the right hand of God. Set your affection on things above, not on things of the earth. For ye are dead, and your life is hid with Christ in God. When Christ, who is our life, shall appear, then shall ye also appear with Him in glory. Mortify therefore your members which are upon the earth...;” To “mortify” our members on the earth, means “to deaden or subdue things in this life that do not exalt the Lord Jesus.” Read the rest of this chapter from the Word of God - verses 10-17.

I Thess 4:1-3, & 7 “Furthermore then we beseech you, brethren, and exhort you by the Lord Jesus, that ye have received of us how ye ought to walk and to please God, so ye would abound more and more.” Vs. 3 -For this is the will of God even your sanctification...” Remember the word means, “purity, purifier, or holiness.” How can we do what God asks of us? It can’t be “self effort,” but yielding to the Holy Spirit, submitting under the Lord’s authority, casting ourselves on the Lord, not self effort or self endurance. A process is taking place daily as we yield our bodies to the Lord. Romans 6:6-14 states, “Knowing this, that our old man is crucified with Him, that the body of sin might be destroyed, that henceforth we should not serve sin.” “Wherefore come out from among them, and be ye separate, saith the Lord, and touch not the unclean thing, and I will receive you. And I will be a Father unto you, and ye shall be my sons and daughters saith the Lord Almighty.” II Cor. 6:17-18.

 Sacrifices that please God

Vicky Moots

What sacrifices please God? I would like to start out by giving an example of a sacrifice that did not please God. In Gen. 4 we find the story of Cain and Abel. Abel was a keeper of the sheep, but Cain was a tiller of the ground. Verses 3-5 tell us this: “... Cain brought of the fruit of the ground an offering to the LORD. And Abel, he also brought of the firstlings of his flock... And the LORD had respect unto Abel and to his offering: But unto Cain and to his offering he had not respect...” Why was God not pleased with Cain’s offering? Because it was not a blood sacrifice. Without the shedding of blood there is no remission of sin. In v. 7, God told Cain to offer an animal for a sin offering, but he was angry and refused to do it. Instead he killed his brother Abel. He was disobedient.

All of the animal sacrifices in the Old Testament pointed forward to Christ. We don’t need to offer animal sacrifices today because Jesus became the ultimate sacrifice for our sins. He was the Lamb of God that takes away the sin of the world (John 1: 29). God was well pleased with and satisfied with the sacrifice of His Son.

So what sacrifices does God really desire? David wrote Psalm 51 as a Psalm of repentance from his great sin with Bathsheba. In vs. 16-17 he declares, “For thou desirest not sacrifice; else would I give it: thou delightest not in burnt offering. The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit: a broken and a contrite heart, O God, thou wilt not despise.” David recognized that a burnt offering alone was not sufficient to pay for sin. He realized that what God really wanted was the repentant and broken heart of the one who brought the animal to be sacrificed. This should also be our heart attitude when we sin, even as Peter when he went out and wept bitterly after denying the Lord. A broken and contrite heart will weep before the Lord and ask for forgiveness and cleansing.

Another sacrifice with which God is well pleased is the sacrifice of praise, as Paul informs us in Hebrews. 13:15: “By him [Jesus] therefore, let us offer the sacrifice of praise to God continually, that is the fruit of our lips giving thanks to his name.” It is easy to praise God in the good times, but what about in the bad times? If praise is called a “sacrifice,” then it implies that it is not an easy thing to do. Our lips do not always feel like praising the Lord. Sometimes we would rather complain about our circumstances than offer praise.

David, in Ps. 69: 30-31 compares singing God’s praises in times of trouble to sacrificing a ram: “I will praise the name of God with a song, and will magnify him with thanksgiving. This also shall please the LORD better than an ox or a bullock, that has horns and hooves. David didn’t say that praising God with a song would take the place of an animal sacrifice, but that the Lord was more pleased with a heart full of praise and thanksgiving than someone who was merely fulfilling an obligation of offering a sacrifice. 

A good example of a sacrifice of praise is found in Acts 16:16-34 which records the account of Paul and Silas being thrown into prison for preaching and casting a demon out of a young woman. Verse 23 states “And when they had laid many stripes upon them, they cast them into prison...”

Paul and Silas were now bruised and bleeding and in a great deal of pain. There seemed to be no hope for them. But then we read in v. 25 that a strange thing happened: “And at midnight Paul and Silas prayed and sang praises unto God: and the prisoners heard them.” This was a true sacrifice of praise, a sacrifice that was well pleasing to God. God heard their praises, and He answered their prayers with a great earthquake which loosed everyone’s bands and opened all the doors of the prison (verse 26). 

Jesus is also an example of one who sang God’s praises in His midnight hour, after finishing the Passover supper with His disciples. This is recorded in Matt. 26:30: “And when they had sung an hymn, they went out into the Mount of Olives.” He was on His way to Gethsemane to pray and to prepare to offer Himself as the final Passover lamb, and yet He offered a sacrifice of praise and song.

What about us? Is it possible for us to offer a sacrifice of praise in our midnight hour, in the midst of our darkest trial? Yes, it is, but not by our own power. The same Holy Spirit who empowered Paul and Silas to praise God at midnight will also empower us as we yield our bodies to Him.

 SOIL PREPARATION

Jack Davis

“Make this valley full of ditches”

God our loving heavenly Father has for us multiplied blessings in the realm of the  Spirit. He has blessed us with all spiritual blessings in heavenly places in Christ Jesus. We are often found in poor condition to receive, and enter into the fullest enjoyment of them. The text for this prophetic command contains some instruction in type concerning our receptiveness to the Holy Spirit and His beneficial workings in our lives.

The kings of Judah, Edom, and Israel joined in battle against their enemy, the Moabites. Their seven day journey through the wilderness Edom, brought them to dire straits for they needed water. They decided to inquire of the Lord through the prophet Elisha. They found Elisha in a most disgruntled frame of mind toward the king of Israel, for they were an idolatrous family of rulers. It seems that Elisha could barely stand the sight of Jehoram. Yet because he stood before the Lord and had regard for the king of Judah, he got in the mood to receive this prophecy as the minstrel played.

He told them to make the valley that they were in, full of ditches; “For thus saith the Lord, Ye shall not see wind, neither shall ye see rain; yet that valley shall be filled with water, that ye may drink…” II Kings 4:16-17. This work was no big deal for Him, He also promised to deliver their enemy into their hand. The next morning water came, instead of running swiftly off that hard dry soil, the ditches helped retained it.

The Moabites saw the sun reflecting off the water and it looked like blood to them. They thought that all they had to do was walk in and take the spoil, that those armies had slain one another. The Mobites were utterly surprised when Israel, Judah, and Edom rose up, smote them, and put them in flight.

Making ditches in the valley probably sounded like the last thing they would want to be doing with their enemy at hand. Many valleys contain rich fertile, productive soil, but if it has not been prepared to receive the God sent moisture, it will just run off. A dried up river bed can be a very dangerous place to camp, if a sudden rain was to come down from up stream. 

How about the soil of our hearts?

“For the earth which drinketh in the rain that cometh oft upon it, and bringeth forth herbs meet for them by whom it is dressed, receiveth blessing from God: But, beloved, we are persuaded better things of you, and things that accompany salvation, though we thus speak.” Heb. 6:7-9.

In this great salvation we are given exceeding great and precious promises. When God brings us to and through some dry hard lowland experiences, we are made to realize our need for the comfort of the Holy Spirit all the more. If our hearts are unprepared we can miss much benefit. Some hearts seem to be hardened by unbelief in those trying times, while others “drink in” and are refreshed, revived, even renewed.

God is faithful to remind

From time to time God reminded Israel of their attitude of heart. They were often told of His mercy and favor that should have softened their hardening heart. “For thus saith the LORD to the men of Judah and Jerusalem. Break up your fallow ground, and sow not among thorns. Circumcise yourselves to the LORD and take away the foreskins of your heart, ye men of Judah and inhabitants of Jerusalem: lest my fury come forth like fire, and burn that none can quench it, because of the evil of your doings.” Jer. 4:3-4.

“And Ephraim is as an heifer that is taught, and loveth to tread out the corn; but I passed over upon her fair neck: I will make Ephraim to ride; Judah shall plow, and Jacob shall break his clods. Sow to ourselves in righteousness, reap in mercy; break up your fallow ground for it is time to seek the LORD, till he come and rain righteousness upon you. Ye have plowed wickedness, ye have reaped iniquity; ye have eaten the fruit of lies: because thou didst trust in thy way, in the multitude of thy mighty men.” Hosea 10:11-13.

Soil conditions typical

In Matt. 13:1-23, we find soil conditions that express the differing measures of receptiveness in human hearts, and responsiveness to the Holy Spirit. The seed, God’s precious Word tries the soil. Thank God we are born again, “not of corruptible seed, but of incorruptible by the word of God which liveth and abideth forever.”

In Matt. 5:1-12, I sense some blessings realized in divinely prepared soil. Jesus makes known that the poor in spirit, pure in heart, peacemakers and persecuted are by Him prepared for blessing. So also are those that mourn, and are meek, and are merciful. Praise God for those that do hunger and thirst after righteousness for they shall be filled. Our God is just as willing to bring us into an awareness of our spiritual need, as He is ready and able to satisfy.

The hungry and thirsty are invited to ask

Jesus told the woman at the well, “If thou knewest the gift of God, and who it is that saith unto thee, give me to drink, thou wouldest have asked of him, and he would have given thee living water.” John 4:10.

“Jesus stood and cried, saying, If any man thirst, let him come unto me, and drink. He that believeth on me, as the scripture hath said, out of his belly shall flow rivers of living water, (But this spake he of the Spirit, which they that believe on him should receive: for the Holly Ghost was not yet given, because that Jesus was not yet glorified.)” John 7:37-39.

Has He not said? “For I will pour water upon him that is thirsty, and floods upon the dry ground: I will pour my spirit upon the seed, and my blessing upon thine offspring: And they shall spring up as among the grass, as willows by the water courses.” Isa. 44:3-4. As in Isa. 55:1-3 it is those that realize their need that are urged to come and partake.

A place of rich deposit

“Thus saith the LORD, The heaven is my throne, and the earth is my footstool: where is the house that ye build unto me? And where is the place of my rest? For all those things hath mine hand made, and all those things have been, saith the LORD: but to this man will I look, even to him that is poor and of a contrite spirit, and trembleth at my word.” Isa. 66:1-2. Has the Lord found in you a place to write His wonderful words of love, life, and light? Does the Word of God touch you thus? Does it humble you so it can lift you up? Are you ever smitten thereby? Can it make you shudder and shake in awe or in joy? Consider Psa. 34:18 and 51:15-17.

He can fill our ditches with more than drink and deliverance

 CONCERNING SPIRITUALS

Part I

W. J. Franklin

“The Word of Wisdom”

 &

 “The Word of Knowledge”

The general subject of I Corinthians 12 through 14 is that of spiritual gifts or the divine order or mode in which these gifts are to be exercised in the assembly. It is evident that many in the church at Corinth had been endowed with these gifts and were guilty of abusing them. In chapter 12, verses 12-27, the apostle states and illustrates the truth that the church is one body as the human body is one but has many members. 

Summary:

Verse 1 – The Greek rendering of this verse is, “Now concerning spirituals,” and the apostle continues with a discussion concerning the operation of the Holy Spirit and the mentioning of the nine gifts. Notice that he said, “I would not have you ignorant.” This subject is of so much  importance that it demands particular attention and care.

In verse 2, He calls their attention to their past life to make them to fully appreciate the mercies and blessings of God. The idea is, that they had been led in the past by priests of idolatry, to worship idols that couldn’t speak. (Psa. 115:4-8) (Habakkuk 2:18-20). But now they worshiped the living  God who could and would not only speak to them but also through them. 

In verse 3 the apostle shows that the true Spirit of God will exalt Jesus as Lord. (compare John 16:14) All who are under the influence of the Holy Spirit will love and reverence the name of Jesus.

The work of the Holy Trinity is seen in verses 5-7. First, administrations or ministries given by Christ. (note V. 28) (Eph. 4:8 & 11) Do not confuse these ministries with the gifts of the Spirit; Second, operations or works of the Father. His works are various. They are not all alike. Note all creation, however much it varies, everything is formed by the same Hand. Third, the manifestation of the Holy Spirit. Notice it’s given to every man! These various manifestations, nine in all, are listed in verses 8-10. We will discuss these, one by  one, as to what they are and what they are not.

(I) The Word of Wisdom

Natural wisdom is the ability to apply possessed knowledge and experience. But this is not natural or human wisdom, but the supernatural Wisdom from God. This Wisdom cannot be developed because it is already perfect. The Word of Wisdom is the supernatural revelation, by the Spirit, of Divine purpose; The supernatural declaration of the Mind and will of God. The supernatural unfolding of His Plans and Purposes, concerning things, places, and people. Do not confuse the Word of Wisdom with deep spiritual insight in the Word of God; believers may have a revelation of the scriptures without possessing any of the gifts. This is not an unfolding of His revealed will, but of His unrevealed will. A gift of revelation but is always in line with the written Word.

In a sense, the Word of Wisdom is the revelation of the purpose of God concerning people, things, or events in the future so as to direct them in their experience, for their safety, etc. While the Word of knowledge could refer to the revelation of past happenings or present events in the lives of people or concerning various things. Some scripture examples of the  use of the Word of Wisdom will show how indispensable is the Gift to poor, ignorant and helpless mortals such as the best of us are.

(1) Gen. 6:13-22 – God’s knowledge of future peril communicated in a supernatural way to Noah. This was future tense and had bearing upon the action of Noah –thus is Wisdom.

(2) Gen. 41:16 & 28-44 – Here Divine Wisdom reveals God’s plans to these He is going to use, for the purpose of appointing a leader and saving a people.

(3) Matt. 1:20 – a Word of Wisdom through a dream to instruct Joseph (compare Matt. 2:20)

(4) Acts 10:9-16 – A Word of Wisdom in type, shattering the barrier between Jews and Gentiles, opening a Gospel door unto the outcast Gentiles. Notice this Word of  Wisdom revealed the future plan of God.

(5) Acts 13:2 – The command by the Spirit to separate Barnabas and Saul was a Word of Wisdom as to the timing of God’s will and had bearing upon their walk and experience.

(6) Acts 26:16 – A Word which directed Paul’s life.

   (7) Acts 27:18-25 – Note verse 23 – a Word that directed his action.

The examples are too numerous for all to be included. For every telling before hand of events to came is an operation of this blessed gift. To treat this gift as a vocal gift and suggest that it is preaching and teaching is to rob it entirely of its supernatural and miraculous character.

(II) The Word of Knowledge

The Word of Knowledge is the supernatural revelation by the Holy Spirit of certain facts in the Mind of God. God keeps ever before Him in the storehouse of His Mind all the facts of heaven and earth. He knows every person, place, and thing in existence. He has them ever before Him; that is Knowledge. The Word of Knowledge is the revelation to man by His spirit. Of some detail of that “all-knowledge” (the revelation of the existence, condition, or whereabouts of some person, object, or place or the location or occasion of some event) It is a gift of revelation, not a vocal gift.

This gift is many times confused with natural ability, natural learning or enlightenment. If it were any of these, it would not be a gift, but an accomplishment. It is not natural, but supernatural. A few examples of the use of this gift in the scriptures will help to make this clear:

(1) I Sam. 3:10-21 – a word to Samuel

(2) II Kings 6:8-12 – used to warn a king of an enemies’ plan.

(3) I Kings 19:14-18 – to enlighten and encourage a discouraged servant of the Lord.

(4) II Kings 5:20-27 – to expose a hypocrite

(5) John 4:18,19,29 – to convince a sinner of the need of a Savior.

(6) Acts 9:10 & 11 – used to point out a man in need. Notice this Word came in a vision.

(7) Acts 5:3 – to reveal corruption in the church

(8) Mark 14:3-15

Please do not confuse this with learning.  Don’t you see, this is a special supernatural revelation of facts given by the Holy  Spirit.

Part 2 in the next issue

 God of a Small Nation

Part 4

Suresh Manoharan – Hyderabad, India

The Return of Christ and the Millennium

Jesus will return to the earth, Antichrist army destroyed. Zech. 14:4, And his feet shall stand in that day upon the mount of Olives, which is before Jerusalem on the east, and the mount of Olives shall cleave in the midst thereof.” Zech. 14:9, And the LORD shall be King over all the earth: in that day shall there be one LORD, and His name one.” Satan will be bound 1,000 years Rev. 20:2-3.

In the last days the mountain of the LORD’S temple will be established as the highest of the mountains; it will be exalted above the hills, all nations will stream to it. Many peoples will come and say, “Come, let us go up  to the mountain of the LORD, to the temple of the God of Jacob. He will teach us His ways, so that we may walk in his paths.” The law will go out from Zion, the word of the LORD from Jerusalem. He will judge between the nations and will settle disputes for many peoples. They will beat their swords into plowshares and their spears into pruning hooks. Nation will not take up sword against nation, nor will they train for war anymore – Isa. 2:2-4.

Jesus in the Millennium would rule the World from Jerusalem along with Saints of all the ages. The ruled would comprise the Jews and those Gentiles’ who had accepted Him during the seven year tribulation and had survived it. Everything would pan out according to the prophecies of Scripture. The United Nations’ Organization birthed to bring about peace in the World – has miserably failed.

Before the Savior comes to reign, in this  Grace age, let’s invite Him to reign in our hearts first. Did He not say that His Kingdom is very near – Matt. 4:17. If we believe in our hearts that He has died for our sins and confess it with our mouth, His Kingdom enters our hearts – Rom. 10:8-9. Rom. 14:17 using the same word Basella…”Kingdom of God is righteousness (right standing  with God), peace and joy of the Holy Spirit.” Virtually, a foretaste of Heaven, Jesus promised elsewhere in the Gospel (Jn. 7:37-38; Jn. 10:10). Friends, rejoice in the living waters which would gush through your hearts.  

Little Israel eh…Boy, it packs a punch in the spiritual realm! Do not we owe it a Savior, Salvation and Scriptures! Add to this fact that one of it’s cities (Jerusalem) would be the future World capital. There is a ring of sanctity about this Nation. While for Jews the Kingdom of  God is an expectation, for Christians it is an experience (enjoying 24/7 the righteousness, peace and joy of the Holy Spirit…a privilege. Come Lord Jesus, reign in our hearts first and then the World from Jerusalem very soon – Rev. 22:20!

 FORGET IT

If you ain’t been treated right

Forget it.

Don’t go looking for a fight,

Forget it.

There’s no need to bear a grudge,

‘Twill your happiness besmudge,

Anyway, you ain’t the judge,

Forget it!

So you’ve been misunderstood

There’s no need to pout and whine,

Sit around all day and pine.

Cheer up, neighbor, sing and shine.

Forget it.

So somebody slandered you?

Just make sure it wasn’t true

Then forget it.

Needless grief will mar your life

If you let it.

No use nagging at your wife.

Forget it!

There’s no need to be depressed

Tho’ you’ve gone through’ many a test

And you feel that you’re oppressed

And by many cares possessed.

Tell the Lord, He knows what’s best.

If you all your wrongs confessed

And you’ll follow His behest

Then your soul will be so blest.

– Submitted by Martha Wainright

 The Encouraging Word

“Seek the Lord and His strength; Seek His face continually.” Psalm 105:4

“The Lord takes pleasure in those who reverently and worshipfully fear Him, in those who hope in His mercy and loving kindness.” Psalm 147:11

“Be earnest and unwearied and steadfast in your prayer (life), being alert and intent in (your praying) with thanksgiving.” Colossians 4:2 Amp

“Make haste, O God, to deliver me; make haste to help me, O Lord!” Psalm 70:1

“And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds.” Hebrews 10:24

“You will show me the path of life; in your presence is fullness of joy, at your right hand there are pleasures for evermore.” Psalm 16:11

“In peace I will lie down and sleep, for you alone Lord make me dwell in safety.” Psalm 4:8

“Let your face shine upon your servant; save me for your mercy sake and in your loving kindness.” Psalm 31:16

Martha Wainright

 Chariot of the Cherubim

Part 2

Jack Davis

Interesting symbols: The pattern and construction concerning the Ark, as well as everything in the tabernacle, teach about Jesus Christ and His work of redemption. 

What was to be placed in the ark? Read Heb. 9:1-11. In the temple of Solomon it contained only the table of stone. I Kings 8:9.

What was placed on the ark? The mercy seat, which also acted as a lid. The blood of the sacrifice was sprinkled thereon. God said He would neet and commune with His people there. Ex. 25:21

What was on the mercy seat and covered it? The cherubim of glory – Heb. 9:5.

Where was the ark to dwell when Israel camped? In the Holy Place (the Holiest of Holies) the throne room. With the blood sprinkled upon the mercy seat, represents for us the throne of grace. Heb. 4:14-16 and 10:19-22.

What do the Cherubim Represent? Can you see redeemed, glorified humanity, who have by the power of the Holy Spirit entered the glorious liberty of the Children of God? In the Word of God they seem to be enjoying the spacious, gracious freedom of performing the will of the throne. They seem to be carrying out and calling forth the mode, mood, and movement in harmony with that glorious throne of glory.

I greatly appreciate Pastor Richard’s series on “Liberty” and quote the last paragraph. “In eternity each of us is an integral unit. Our faith takes hold of  it now. The cherubim of Ezekiel and the seraphim of Isaiah, show the full character of Christ in man. He has the nature, the humility, the power, the durability that a God-man should have. Who are these cherubim and seraphim? They can be you…me…an entirely new “I.” Praise the Lord! Liberty from all the bondage of corruption!” 

The cherubim’s wings tell us some wonderful things about how full overcomers are enabled by the Holy Spirit to rise and reign. Eze. 10:15-17; Isa. 40:28-31. The expression in our translation is “mount up.” Ezekiel 10:15 also identifies the cherubim as living creatures. These “living creatures” with four wings joined one to the other (unity of the Spirit), straight feet, and four faces, (a man, a lion, an ox, and an eagle) show the fourfold characteristics of our Lord Jesus 

Christ pictured in the four gospels, and reproduced in His dependant people.

In Revelation chapters four and five the living creatures are referred to as “beats.” Their description in 4:6-8 is comparable to those in Ezeklel ten. When these redeemed and glorified beings joyfully express their knowledge of Christ’s right to reign both as Creator and Redeemer, all creation seem to react. That which is said of them affords us some marvelous insight to the conveyance of the King of kings, for they are always acting in perfect harmony with the will of the throne. These will have taken the name of Jesus with them, carried His life, as treasure in earthen vessels, born His reproach, made Him known to others, and shown forth His light.

Transport for dignitaries of most countries are elaborate. But what is the president’s limo, copter, or plane compared to a chariot of cherubims? For seven years our assemble took a bus load of young people to youth camp out in the Colorado rockies, what trips! The Lord was certainly with us, and watched over us. One year we got behind a bus named the ‘Lord’s Ford.’ Someone wondered if we could call our bus “The bride’s ride.” We had some real blessings and mechanical problems with the old bus, but it was far easier to take them than Rebecca’s camel.

“The Lord reigneth; let the people tremble: He sitteth (enthroned, above, among, on or between) the Cherubims; let the earth be moved.” – Psa. 99:1. We here have a chariot that it is a living vehicle, made up on living creatures. 

In Songs of Solomon 1:9; the king compares the great love of his life, to a company (how significant) not of wild horses, but to a highly trained company of powerful creatures that move swiftly in  perfect unison at the will of the chariot master, and which otherwise stood perfectly still. In Songs of  Solomon 3:9-11, We read that the king built for himself a palanquin, His car of state. Some have called it a litter. By definition this has characteristics of a curtain covered couch for carrying a crowned one.

He made has chariot of wood which teaches of our Lord’s work with humanity, having become man to redeem mankind. He made the pillars of silver, in other words His work, it’s solid supports were established on redemption. In Old Testament type the redemption money was silver. Of course under the new covenant we are redeemed by the precious blood of Jesus. The floor of His car of state was of gold. He became man to make mankind a partaker of the divine nature, pictured by the gold. The covering of purple indicates that those who are born into the family of God by faith in Jesus Christ are heirs of God, born to royalty. The midst paved with love, that is what the gospel story is all about. The greatest love story ever told, from start to finish, first to last, least to the greatest. This is the chariot of charity. “Unto Him that loved us, and washed us from our sins in His own blood, and hath made us kings and priests unto God and His Father; to him be glory and dominion for ever and ever. Amen.” Rev. 1:5-6. Read and rejoice in 5:11-14.

He who is the king maker, house builder, foundation, and chief corner stone will soon finish His work in the objects of His love. Then will He forever be highly honored as the King of all kings, and Lord of all lords. He who is the maker of true priests must be acknowledged as the High Priest forever.

Oh, what a Redeemer, what a Savior, none other name can claim such fame, for no one in heaven and earth has borne the blame, and suffered the full measure of reproach and shame. Oh, yes the highest praise must go to our lover, liberator, and lifter of our heads forever.

“Or ever I was aware, my soul made me like the chariots of Ammi-nadib.” S.O.S. 6:12.

In a grand surprise, the king of love seems to dip too low on His inspection tour. Then all of sudden with love’s magnetic force the king and His greatest love get caught up and carried away in translation’s embrace. He might be heard to say, “Before I realized what was happening, my heart set me on the chariots of my princely, or willing people.” I am told such is the meaning of Ammi-nadib. The Lord Himself will soon descend with a shout, and His watching waiting bride shall ascend to that glad meeting in the air! What comfort this hope affords.

 FRUIT

Gordon Crook, Pastor

Grace Assembly, Wichita, Kansas

“I am the true vine, and my Father is the husbandman. Every branch in me that beareth not fruit he taketh away: and every branch that beareth fruit, he purgeth it, that it may bring forth more fruit. Now ye are clean through the word which I have spoken unto you. Abide in me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit of itself, except it abide in the vine; no more can ye, except ye abide in me. I am the vine, ye are the branches: He that abideth in me, and I in him, the same bringeth forth much fruit: for without me ye can do nothing.” John 15:1-5

God has always used things from His creation to teach us spiritual lessons. We can easily understand that a tree is identifiable by the fruit that it bears. If you see a tree that has apples growing on it, you will know that it is not an orange tree. So, remember, fruit is what can be observed.

Jesus told us “by their fruits ye shall know them.” He is giving us an understanding that a person’s actions and behavior and speech will allow you to know something about them. It is easy to say, “I am a Christian,” but is there any evidence. On the other side, if you are a true Christian, can others tell? Can they observe your life, your behavior and know that you are a Christian?

If you think that non-Christians don’t know what to look for, you would be wrong. Even if they are not sure, you will hear them say, “that doesn’t seem very much like a Christian.” They do know what they expect someone’s behavior to be when they claim to be Christian. 

And this brings me to the problem that we often have. We claim to be Christians. That means we are bearing the name of Jesus Christ. In the Old Testament, God told His people that they should not bear His name in vain. Israel bore the name of Jehova their God. Others would take note of this and the actions of the Israelites would reflect on their God.

First, in our passage, Jesus does not leave us to try to figure out how to live a Christian life. He very clearly tells us that we cannot bear fruit except we remain in Him. That is a life that is yielded to the life of Christ. We are created in Christ (new birth) unto good works (fruit). “For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them.” Ephesians 2:10

Secondly, I want you to notice that He uses the word “bear,” that is, to “carry.” We are not creating the fruit, we are bearers of the fruit that is the result of the life of Christ. The fruit comes as a result of the work of the Holy Spirit. He works through God’s Word to produce fruit in our lives. “For the hope which is laid up for you in heaven, whereof ye heard before in the word of the truth of the gospel; Which is come unto you, as it is in all the world; and bringeth forth fruit, as it doth also in you, since the day ye heard of it, and knew the grace of God in truth:” Colossians 1:5-6

Thirdly, notice He emphasizes the word “abide.” This speaks of a continuation. Not leaving Him. I think it indicates our need for continual study of God’s Word, and continual communion with Him in prayer. It is those times when we think we finally have everything under control and can take it on our own, that we end up failing. Our human tendency is to be independent, but scripture teaches us differently. “Blessed is the man that walketh not in the counsel of the ungodly, nor standeth in the way of sinners, nor sitteth in the seat of the scornful. But his delight is in the law of the LORD; and in his law doth he meditate day and night. And he shall be like a tree planted by the rivers of water, that bringeth forth his fruit in his season; his leaf also shall not wither; and whatsoever he doeth shall prosper.” Psalms 1:1-3.

The tree that is planted “fixed in place” by the rivers of water gets continual nourishment from the source. When we delight (take pleasure) in God’s Word, we are nourished from it and are able to bear fruit. The Holy Spirit knows what fruit to produce in our life in every season. If we abide in Jesus in every aspect of our life, we will bear fruit that others will see and they will be drawn to Him. In Acts we read that the people “took knowledge of them, that they had been with Jesus.” This is what I want from my life, and you should too. Our main purpose should be to draw other to Jesus. 

 THE DEDICATION OF OUR MIND TO GOD

Anita Clark – Pastor, Carbondale, KS

Jesus spoke in Matthew 22:37 with a quote from Deuteronomy 6:15, saying “Thou shalt love the Lord, thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind.” The “mind” speaks of “deep thought, imagination, and understanding.”

Deuteronomy 6:5 tells about Moses going off the scene, and would die before going into Canaan land.  He said, this very scripture mentioned by Jesus there in Matthew 22:37 - “And thou shalt love the Lord God with all thine heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy might.” The part “all thy soul” means “all thy life, mind, heart, desire, or breath.”  He said this is what God wants from Israel, but God wants this also from all His people.

This same word for “mind” is used in Ephesians 2:1-3.  Vs. 3 -”Among whom also we all had our conversation in the times past in the lusts of our flesh, fulfilling the desires of the flesh, and of the mind, and were by nature the children of wrath, even as others.”  Before knowing Christ, our sinful mind led us. (vs. 3).  This word “mind” means - “imagination, and deep thought.”  

In Romans 1:28-29, the Scripture says, speaking of people with “reprobate minds,” And even as they did not like to retain God in their knowledge, God gave them over to a reprobate mind, to do those things which are not convenient.” When, by Adam, sin entered the world, man became more and more vile. i.e. Cain killed Abel. The word “reprobate” means “unapproved, rejected, worthless morally.” Why don’t many people, those without Christ want to accept the “the natural man?”  I Corinthians 2:14 tells us, “But the natural man receiveth not the things of the Spirit of God for they are foolishness unto him; neither can he know them, because they are Spiritually discerned.”  I Corinthians 2:16 says, “For who hath known the mind of the Lord, that He may instruct him? But we have the mind of Christ.” I Corinthians 1:18 says, “For the preaching of the cross is to them that perish foolishness (or silliness, absurdity); but unto us which are saved it is the power of God.”

Ephesians 4:17 tells us to “Walk not as other Gentiles in the vanity of their mind.” The word “vanity” means “moral depravity.” Vs. 18 says “Having the understanding darkened, being alienated from the life of God through the ignorance that is in them; because of the blindness of the heart.”

Romans 8:5 tells us, “For they that are after the flesh do mind the things of the flesh; but they that are after the Spirit the things of the Spirit. For to be carnally minded is death but to be spiritually minded is life and peace.”  The term “carnally minded” means to be “fleshly, human nature, with its failure, physically and morally.” Vs. 7 says “Because the carnal mind is enmity against God, for it is not subject to the law of God, neither indeed can be.” We have victory through Christ over our flesh. Great Victory is in our midst and our Church.

Philippians 1:27 says, “Only let your conversation be as it becometh the gospel of Christ: that whether I come and see you, or else be absent, I may hear of your affairs, that ye stand fast in one spirit, with one mind striving together for the faith of the gospel.” Chapter 2:2, “Fulfill ye my joy; that ye be likeminded having the same love, being of one accord, of one mind.”  Vs. 3 - “Let nothing be done through strife or vainglory; but in lowliness of mind let each esteem others better than themselves.”  “Lowliness of mind,” means “humiliation of mind, modesty, and the state or quality of being moderate in the estimation of one’s own abilities, accomplishments or value.”  Vs. 5 tells “Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus.”  The Amplified Version says, “Have the same attitude in yourselves which was in Christ Jesus (look to Him, as your example in selfless humility.”

In Philippians 3:10-12 Paul declares, “That I may know Him, and the power of His resurrection, and the fellowship of His sufferings, being made conformable unto His death; If by any means I might attain the (out) resurrection of the dead.  Not as though I had already attained, either were already perfect, but I follow after, if that I may apprehend that for which also I am apprehended of Christ Jesus.” In verse 11, where Paul spoke of “I might attain unto the (out) resurrection” the word “attaining” means “to take, to get hold of, seize, to obtain.”

In Philippians 3:15, Paul says, “Let us therefore, as many as be perfect, be thus minded: and if otherwise minded, God shall reveal even this unto you.”  It would be great if we were all “perfect.”  The Lord is working in our lives right now to perfect us into His likeness. The word “perfect” in this verse above, means “complete, in various applications of labor, growth, mental or moral character, completeness, of full age.” Has anyone reading this reached their complete, and full age?  Make up your mind!  Choose where you will go.  Who will you give your mind, attention, and duration to?

 A Crown of Thorns

Vicky Moots

Matthew 27:27-30: “Then the soldiers of the governor took Jesus into the common hall, and gathered unto Him the whole band of soldiers. And they stripped him, and put on him a scarlet robe.  And when they had platted a crown of thorns, they put it on his head, and a reed in his right hand: and they bowed the knee before him, and mocked him, saying, hail, King of the Jews! And they spit upon him, and took the reed, and smote him on the head.”

The placing of the crown of thorns on Jesus’ head is also recorded in Mark 15:17-20. When we read these accounts of the crown of thorns, we obviously think of the amount of pain which Christ endured physically and emotionally. He was a true king, but he was mocked and scorned and rejected even though they bowed their knees to him. But I believe that the thorns on his head had a more significant meaning than just pain and rejection.

Thorns entered into this world because of man’s sin in the Garden of Eden, as we read in Gen. 3:17-18. God told Adam after he had eaten of the fruit of the tree which he was commanded not to eat, “…cursed is the ground for thy sake; in sorrow shalt thou eat of it all the days of thy life; Thorns and thistles shall it bring forth to thee...” This means that thorns were a part of the curse, and are identified with sin. Therefore, the crown of thorns being placed on Jesus’ head represented Him being identified with our sin. Even though He was sinless, He was made sin for us so that He could bear our penalty.

The Mosaic law also pronounced a curse on all those who could not keep it, as God declared in Deut. 11:26-28: “Behold, I set before you this day a blessing and a curse; A blessing if you obey the commandments of the Lord your God, which I command you this day: And a curse if ye will not obey the commandments of the Lord your God…” However, no one could keep the law, so Christ had to die to redeem us from the curse of the law.

In Duet. 21:22-23 we read further regarding the curse: “And if a man have committed a sin worthy of death, and he be put to death, and thou hang him on a tree: His body shall not remain all night upon the tree, but thou shalt in any wise bury him that day; (for he that is hanged is accursed of God)...”

But, praise God, Christ bore the curse of the law for us, as Paul proclaimed in Gal. 3:13: “Christ hath redeemed us from the curse of the law, being made a curse for us: for it is written, Cursed is every one that hangeth on a tree.”

As Christ hung upon the tree of Calvary, His blood poured down upon the ground, which was cursed, just like the blood from the sacrifice of the sin offering was poured out at the bottom of the Altar of Burnt Offering in the Tabernacle in the wilderness. (Lev. 4:18). He became our sin offering on that day.

His crown of thorns became a Victor’s crown as he cried out, “It is finished.” He no longer wears a crown of thorns, for He is now crowned with glory and honor, as Paul stated in Hebrews 2:9: “But we see Jesus, who was made a little lower than the angels for the suffering of death, crowned with glory and honor; that he by the grace of God, should taste death for every man.”

JOY

Gary Giddings – Broken Arrow, OK

Lk. 2:10-11, “And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, which is Christ the Lord.” These were the words that the angel spoke to the shepherds the night Jesus was born. It is interesting that God gave this announcement of joy to such lowly, common workers like shepherds. God wants all people to know and experience the joy of knowing Jesus as Savior.

According to Webster Dictionary, the basic definition of joy is ‘The passion or emotion excited by the expectation of good.’ This is something that we all can be excited about: Jesus our Savior has saved us from our sins. BELIEVE, RECEIVE Him into your heart, and you will BECOME a child of God! We have joy because we have acquired the goodness of God through Jesus, we live with the expectation of more of God’s goodness through Jesus. Consider the Grace & Glory song, Joy, Joy Is Mine, my Savior divine – Comes to abide with me, with me, Comes to abide, ever to abide, My own loving Savior abideth with me.

The presence of Jesus in our heart gives us never-ending joy. No one and nothing can give us joy like Jesus. We like to have fun, but joy is better. A sister in the Lord told me years ago that fun is spoken from the lips, it is shallow. But joy is spoken from deeper within and resides deep within us. I want to look at each of the FOUR VERSES of the song, ‘Joy, Joy Is Mine’ [song credits to Mrs. J.H. Knowles and Mrs. J.F. Knapp].

1) He has come! He has come! My Redeemer has come, He has taken my heart as His own chosen home; At last I have given the welcome He sought, He has come, and His coming– all gladness has brought.

Rev. 3:20,  “Behold, I stand at the door, and knock: if any man hear my voice, and open the door, I will come in to him, and will sup with him, and he with me.” Jesus doesn’t want to enslave us; He wants to love us. To “sup” to “dine” with Him. We have fellowship and communion with Him when we give ourselves to Him. Jn. 15:10-11, “If ye keep my commandments, ye shall abide in my love; even as I have kept my Father’s commandments, and abide in His love. These things have I spoken unto you, that my joy might remain in you, and that your joy might be full.” First we welcome Jesus into our heart, and then we make Him welcome on the throne of our heart as we obey God’s Word. God showed His love to us by GIVING us His Son Jesus. We show our love to God by OBEYING Him. Obedience to God opens the way for us to experience His love and joy.

2) He has come! He has come! My Love and my Lord, Every thought of my being is swayed by His Word; He has come, and He rules in the realm of my soul, And His scepter is love, O blessed control!  

Hab. 3:17-18, “Although the fig tree shall not blossom, neither shall fruit be in the vines; the labor of the olive shall fail, and the fields shall yield no meat; the flock shall be cut off from the fold, and there shall be no herd in the stalls: Yet I will rejoice in the LORD, I will joy in the God of my salvation.” Jesus comes to rule in the realm of our soul, and He rules with love. Even if all things seem to fall apart, it is because of His unending love we can rejoice in the Lord. We may not understand it all, but we TRUST Him. 1 Pet. 1:6-8, “Wherein ye greatly rejoice, though now for a season, if need be, ye are in heaviness through manifold temptations: That the trial of your faith, being much more precious than of gold that perisheth, though it be tried with fire, might be found unto praise and honor and glory at the appearing of Jesus Christ: Whom having not seen, ye love; in whom, though now ye see him not, yet believing, ye rejoice with joy unspeakable and full of glory:” We can rejoice in the Lord, even when circumstances aren’t so great. Why? God is working in and through us to be the people that He wants us to be. It is our honor to praise Him when times are tough. After all, things will change, but God and His promises will not change! He will see us through and give us greater joy than we had before. Remember, joy is the expectation of the good coming.

3) He has come! He has come! O happiest heart, He has given His Word that He will not depart; No trouble can enter, no evil can come To the heart where the God of peace has His home.  

Heb. 13:5-6, “Let your conversation be without covetousness; and be content with such things as ye have: for He hath said, I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee. So that we may boldly say, The Lord is my helper, and I will not fear what man shall do unto me.” This is the happy heart of joy, when we live according to the promise that God will always be with us. We may feel afraid when certain things happen to us or to others. But God is greater than whatever may be trying to threaten us. Our  body is  God’s temple  and He  takes  care of us! 

2 Cor. 1:8-10, “For we would not, brethren, have you ignorant of our trouble which came to us in Asia, that we were pressed out of measure, above strength, insomuch that we despaired even of life: But we had the sentence of death in ourselves, that we should not trust in ourselves, but in God which raiseth the dead: Who delivered us from so great a death, and doth deliver: in whom we trust that He will yet deliver us;” The Apostle Paul is our “pattern racer” he learned to trust God in very difficult times, not ourselves. We don’t deny our feelings but we learn to look to the One who is the Deliverer, our Lord Jesus Christ. 

4) He has come to abide, And holy must be The place where my Lord deigns to banquet with me; And this is my praise, Lord, since Thou art come, Made meet for Thy presence my heart as Thy home.  

Jn. 15:4-5, “Abide in me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit of itself, except it abide in the vine; no more can ye, except ye abide in me. I am the vine, ye are the branches: He that abideth in me, and I in him, the same bringeth forth much fruit: for without me ye can do nothing.” A relationship of love between Jesus and each one of us. We love Him because He first loved us. Because His love is never-ending and His love never wavers, we learn to trust Him more and more. Continued trusting, we abide, remain, dwell in Him. This relationship has a business side to it in the sense that if we don’t trust Him in a practical way, we won’t experience the joy of this relationship. But God is patient and longsuffering and He assures us in times of trouble. 1 Pet. 3:15, “But sanctify the Lord God in your hearts: and be ready always to give an answer to every man that asketh you a reason of the hope that is in you with meekness and fear:” Sanctify means “to make holy, purify or consecrate” (Strong). We are to separate ourselves FROM the world and UNTO Jesus. Our lives can’t be joyful in the true sense of the word without Jesus ruling and reigning in our heart. We can’t be involved in sinful things and still have a good relationship with the Lord. We must walk in the light, and this light is our Lord Jesus Christ. 

Again, the chorus:

Joy! Joy is mine, my Savior divine – Comes to abide with me, with me, Comes to abide, ever to abide, My own loving Savior abideth with me.

No one can take this joy from you, only as you allow someone to take it. But we are learning to TRUST our Lord and Savior in all things and to be the people that God wants us to be. With His joy in our heart, we can continually worship and serve Him all the days of our lives.

 The Headship of Christ

Earlene Davis

I Cor. 12:12, “For as the body is one, and hath many members, and all the members of that one body, being many, are one body: so also is Christ.”

Apostle Paul Uses our natural body to illustrate the body of Christ, the Church. Just as our natural body has many members, hands, feet, etc., yet it is one body. “So also is Christ,” referring to the mystical body of Christ. All believers on Jesus belong to His body, the Church. There are many members, but they are one body. I might add, that the local assemblies are a miniature picture of the whole body.

Vs. 13-14, “For by one Spirit are we all baptized into one body, whether we be Jews or Gentiles, whether we be bond or free; and have been all made to drink into one Spirit. For the body is not one member, but many.” When were we all baptised into one body? It was provisional accomplished on the day of Pentecost - Acts 2. We do not have anything to do with making that unity of it members. For it was made one body by the one baptism of the Holy Spirit. All believers on the Lord Jesus Christ, whether they know it or not. It did not originate with man or a set of men, but we do read of many fillings of the Holy Spirit. 

For all believers have been given the privilege to drink of the One Spirit. Have you taken your privilege? Eph. 5:18, “And be not drunk with wine, wherein is excess; but be filled with the Spirit.” Eph. 4:4-5, “There is one body, and one Spirit, even as ye are called in one hope of your calling; One Lord, one faith, one baptism.” Gal. 3:26-28, “For ye are all the children of God by faith in Christ Jesus.

 For as many of you as have been baptized into Christ have put on Christ. There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither bond nor free, there is neither male nor female: for ye are all one in Christ Jesus.” A new creation in Him – Praise God!

Col. 1:12-13, “Giving thanks unto the Father, which hath made us meet to be partakers of the inheritance of the saints in light: Who hath delivered us from the power of darkness, and hath translated us into the kingdom of his dear Son:” We have redemption through His blood. Vs. 18, “And he (Christ) is the head of the body, the Church…that in all things he might have the preeminence.” There is only one body or Church with One Head, Christ.

Our natural body is an amazing marvel when contemplating its workings. But its many members cannot work independent of the head. Never does one member of the body seek its own thing. Neither does one member become angry with the others. Instead, I think we all have experienced one member in sympathy with an injured other member. “So also is Christ.” May we  honor Christ as our head and no other. God has made this union. 

Man has made divisions. What is the cause? Mainly it is because of not holding Christ as Head of the Church, His body. In Eph. 4:3-4, We are  urged “to keep” the unity of the one body in the bond of peace. We are not admonished to make the unity, but to keep the unity  God has made. Today there are many division. Whenever the Lord works or revives His Church, another sect results which is against the teachings of the Scriptures.  There is but one body regardless of what man does or says.

In Revelation chapters 2 & 3, Jesus’ last words to His Church. He addresses seven local assemblies which typically and prophetically describes the Church Age. Each one beginning with Ephesus who lost her first love for Christ soon after the apostles passed off the scene. Continuing on down to Laodicea where Jesus is on the outside knocking for individuals to invite Him into their hearts. These churches tell the story of the decline of the Church during this Church Age. The rebuke Christ gives in these letters to them, applies to all sects who turn to human authority rather than to the Spirit of God, the teacher of the Church. “He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches” is repeated, ending each letter.

The Church of Jesus Christ is an organism, not an organization. God does not need a manager. Is He not sufficient to manage His own sheep? God always has a faithful remnant and in each of the churches, there are promises of rewards to the overcomers. Smyrna saints are faithful unto death and are given a crown of life. Philadelphia saints have kept Christ’s word and because they have kept the word of His patience, they will be kept from the hour of temptation coming upon all the world. They are admonish to hold fast that which thou hast, that no man take thy crown – Rev. 3:12-13 & 22:7, 12-13, 16, 20.

 God of a Small Nation

Part 3

Suresh Manoharan – Hyderabad, India

The Savior

Great men of God were your fathers, and Christ himself was one of you, a Jew so far as his human nature is concerned, He who now rules over all. Praise God forever! – Rom. 9:5. In God’s sovereign plan, it had to be His Son born donning the earthly body of a Jew in the family tree of David who would complete the Redemption plan on the Cross (John 19:30). Didn’t Jesus Himself say “Salvation comes from the Jews (Jn. 4:22)!

The two Gospel accounts giving the genealogy of Jesus from both the paternal side (Matthew) and the maternal side (Luke) leave none in doubt about the Jews ancestry of the Savior that he indeed was the royal descendent of King David. 

Symbol: Israel figured by a withered Fig Tree, a symbol of their spiritual bareness. When it starts blossoming again, you can assume that I am right at the door remarked the Savior (Matt. 24:32-33) speaking on the subject of the Signs preceding His second coming. So Israel in a way is a time-piece. Israel resembled a withered fig tree for approximately 2000 years but in conjunction with His covenant with their forefathers – Duet. 7:7-8, they once again symbolize a budding, blossoming fig tree.

Looking at Israel’s rebirth from another dimension, it would not be possible for Anti-Christ to emerge as a Global problem (after the Rapture of the Church) without the existence of Israel. Rev. 6:1-2 portrays him as a conqueror who would win over the people’s hearts initially by deception (Dan. 8:25) without shedding blood. Note, he is depicted as carrying a bow but no arrows.

Arab-Israeli conflict: Today, there is conflict in West Asia because Israel is there (200 years back, it was not the case). If Israel had not been “re-born,” there would be no turmoil at all, leaving no scope for Anti-Christ to display his “peaceful” problem-solving abilities and broker a temporary Arab-Jewish pact and consolidate his position as undisputed Global leader, during the seven years of tribulation which would follow Church’s rapture. Boy, if Antichrist’s advent seems imminent, how much more imminent is the Church’s rapture (Rev. 4:1) which would precede it.

After initially posing as the friends of the Jews, the Anti-Christ would reveal his true colors in the second half of tribulation (Dan. 9:27) posing as God himself (Rev. 13:1-8) subjecting the Jews to severe persecution. In the midst of their heavy troubles, many Jews (a remnant) would in desperation finally look sky-ward to the rejected Messiah. They had rejected Him in His first advent but would accept Him now as their Savior (Rom. 11:26) for deliverance. Jesus in answer to their prayers would come, defeat the  Anti-Christ and his assistant the False Prophet in the  Battle of Armageddon (Rev. 19:11-21) and usher in the Millennial rule (Psa. 2 & Rev. 20).

Part 4 next issue: The Return of Christ and the Millennium.

 The Encouraging Word

“Seeing than that we have a Great High Priest…Jesus, the Son of God, let us hold fast our profession. Let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of Grace, that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of need.” Hebrews 4:14,16

“Therefore take no thought, saying, ‘What shall we eat? Or, What shall we drink?’ or, ‘Wherewithal shall we be clothed?’ … for your Heavenly Father knoweth that ye have need of all these things,” Matthew 6:31-32

“Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every Word that proceeds from the mouth of God.” Matthew 4:4

“I will both lay me down in peace and sleep; for you alone, O Lord, make me to well in safety.” Psalm 4:8

“For the eyes of the Lord are upon the righteous – those who are upright and in right standing with God – and His ears are attentive to their prayers. But the face of the Lord is against those who practice evil – to oppose them, to frustrate and defeat them.” I Peter 3:12 Amp.

“Be joyful in Hope, Patient in affliction, faithful in Prayer.” Romans 12:12

Martha Wainright

 Chariot of the Cherubim

Jack Davis

When king David was told that Solomon his son would be the one to build the house for the name of the Lord, David in turn gave his son Solomon counsel. He gave Solomon the pattern of all that he had by the spirit as well as the materials including the silver and gold for this magnificent temple. David said that the Lord had made him to understand in writing by His hand upon him. I Chron. 28:11-21.

Thank God, He is till writing today by His Spirit, on the tables of our hearts to enable us to understand the depths of the riches of the wisdom and knowledge of God our Father. David was given the privilege to gather the materials for the construction, even gold “for the pattern of the chariot of the cherubims, that spread out their wings, and covered the ark of the covenant of the Lord.” I Chron. 28:18.

Solomon followed the plans that God had given his father, and when the temple was built, Solomon in his prayer of dedication said, “But will God indeed dwell on the earth? Behold, the heaven and the heaven of the heavens cannot contain thee; how much less this house  that I have builded?” I Kings 8:27. See Acts 7:44– 50 and 17:24-28.

“Thus saith the Lord, The heaven is my throne, and the earth is my footstool: where is the house that ye will build unto me? And where is the place of my rest? For all those things hath mine hand made, and all those things have been, saith the Lord: but to this man will I look, even to him that is poor and of a contrite spirit, and trembleth at my word.” Isa. 66:1-2. It is to us a marvelous thing that our God determined to dwell and walk in human vessels. See II Cor. 6:16 – 7:1. A heart revelation of God and His Word truly humbles us in order to lift us up and make something special of our lives.

It seems that before this first creation God had in  mind a temple that would be made up of living stones, and a transport made up of living creatures. He could  use His channels as vessels and vehicles any way He saw fit. Our part was to be available and let Him determine our use and usefulness.

VESSELS and VEHICLES

Jeremiah was sent to the potter’s house to see how he worked on the wheels. Jer. 18:1-6. The vessel  that the potter made of clay was marred, so he made another vessel as it seemed good unto him. God then asked Israel, “cannot I do with you as this potter…Behold as the clay is in the potter’s hand, so are ye in my hand…” God made the first Adam a natural man, and the first creation was marred by the fall. The second creation He placed in Christ, and Christ in us. II Cor. 5:17: II Cor. 13:5, Col. 1:27. He placed in earthen vessels a life that cannot fail. II Cor. 4:4-11. God intended that the life of His Son be manifested, and magnified in our mortal bodies. Phil. 2:19-21.

God, the great and original potter has the power to make vessels unto honour and to dishonour. Whether He is dealing with Israel or with us as in individual, He has endured with much longsuffering vessels of wrath fitted to destruction. See Eph. 2:1-10. He has been willing to show His wrath and make His power known in some measure, and will demonstrate more later. Yet it seems that He is far more willing to make known the riches of His glory on vessels of mercy prepared unto glory. Rom. 9:20-23.

Our Father in His great house has all creation at His disposal to make of it whatever He will, but has determined to wash us in His Word and by the power of His Holy Spirit, set up apart unto Himself, and make us fit for His use, prepared unto every good work. Oh how wise we are to be available to His Hand. II Tim. 2:19-21.

We do thank God for Paul, who was faithful as a chosen vessel, and as a vehicle to bear the name of Jesus and His good news unto  many. Praise God for those that went before Paul (Acts 8:3-4) as well as those that followed in the same steps as containers of His life and conveyors of His light, even unto this end of the age. Some are still showing forth His light, and holding fast (and forth) the Word of life. Phil. 2:15-16. That chosen vessel that was told what great things he must suffer for the name of Christ, wrote, “Let us go forth therefore unto Him without the camp, bearing His reproach.” Heb. 13:13. 

CHARIOTS

“And it came to pass, as they still went on, and talked, that, behold there appeared a chariot of fire, and horses of fire, and parted them both asunder; and Elijah went up by a whirlwind into heaven.” I Kings 2:11.

What an exciting exit! For both Elijah to experience, and Elisha to behold it happening. Later Elisha’s young servant saw Elisha surrounded with chariots of fire. I Kings 6:17. I am sure that His disciples were excited to watch Jesus lift off the earth and ascend into heaven. Lk. 24:50-52; Acts 1:9-11, as a cloud received Him out of their sight. In today’s language, I suppose someone would say that they were abducted by extraterrestrials, but soon and very soon we expect to be transported quickly into realms of celestial glory. OH Hallelujah!!

The Ark Represented the Presence and Favor of God. King David felt the urge to bring the ark of the covenant home to Jerusalem and he consulted with the leaders of the people about it and the people agreed. So David led the people to bring the ark, and they set it on a new cart. On the way toward home the oxen stumbled, and Uzza one of the men driving the oxen put forth his hand to steady the ark of God, and was smitten to death.

How was the Ark to be Moved? David asked, “How shall I bring the ark home to me?” sometimes the best way to miss the perfect will of God is to consult with man. Often wisdom of man can lead us to do the right thing in the wrong way. If David didn’t remember the Word of the Lord on this matter, he would have been wise to ask God in the fist place. The next attempt David made to bring up the ark, they did it according to the  word of the Lord. This time David said, “None ought carry the ark of God but the Levities: for them hath the Lord chosen to carry the ark of God.” Num. 7. Their first attempt was exactly the way the Philistines tried to do it. It is a shame that God’s people today still try to do things of God according to the ways of the world.

Some years ago a man, a successful evangelist said, I don’t care what kind of cart you have to use to get them in, just so you get the Word out. This statement was made in relation to bringing Grace meetings into a man made cart. God in some undeniable way manifested His displeasure with it. Those like the Philistines that are ignorant of God’s way, are not judged severely as those with more light.. The Philistines had taken the ark in battle, but in a little while they were glad to get rid of  it.

 I Surrender All

Gordon Crook, Pastor

Grace Assembly, Wichita, Kansas

There is an old hymn, written by Judson W. Van DeVenter titled, “I Surrender All.” The second verse is as follows:

All to Jesus I surrender; Humbly at His feet I bow,

Worldly pleasures all forsaken; Take me, Jesus, take me now

Thinking about these words makes me wonder what would possess a person to write such a thing. Why would someone want to surrender their entire life to Jesus? This is very contrary to the general goal of society today which is to take control of your own life, and not let anyone tell you what to do.

There are only a few reasons one might consider surrendering their lives to someone else. It might be by force. This has been the case many times throughout history. One person or group of persons forcing another to surrender themselves. It might be out of necessity. This also has happened to many through the years.

However, the best reason to surrender your life to someone is out of love. “For the love of Christ constraineth us; because we thus judge, that if one died for all, then were all dead:” 2 Corinthians 5:14 There is no doubt in my mind that God could have forced us to surrender our lives to Him. He is, after all, the creator of all things, the Almighty God. He can do anything He wants. But He does not force us to surrender our lives to Him. He invites us lovingly to do so. The offer is without equal.

The invitation God sends us is His only begotten Son to die on the cross for us. I am not sure all of God’s people understand exactly what Jesus has done for us. I am not sure we always think about what we would be without Jesus and His saving blood. “If any man serve me, let him follow me; and where I am, there shall also my servant be: if any man serve me, him will [my] Father honour.” John 12:26. “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 3:16. The word “believeth” means “to put trust in.” Complete surrender is complete trust.

Our pride will cause us to believe that we are doing fine on our own; that we can take care of our own lives. The pace of our lives today many times does not leave us time to contemplate where we would be without Jesus, and where we would end up without Jesus. The love that God showed towards us is so great it should cause a response from us.

So, what value can there possibly be from surrendering my life to Jesus? Is there anything in it for me? This is the way we tend to think. Well, even if there is nothing in it for me, Jesus deserves my surrendered life, because he gave up His life to save mine. However, God is so loving, that He actually has everything in it for me.

God loves me, and you, so much that as we surrender our lives to Him, He offers us all that He has. “He that spared not his own Son, but delivered him up for us all, how shall he not with him also freely give us all things?” Romans 8:32. It is sad to see so many of God’s children, who have experienced His saving grace, continue on their own way when they could have so much more by simply surrendering their lives to Jesus.

The Apostle Paul realized that he needed to surrender to Jesus. He often refers to himself as the servant of Jesus. “For there stood by me this night the angel of God, whose I am, and whom I serve,” Acts 27:23. “Paul, a servant of Jesus Christ, called to be an apostle, separated unto the gospel of God,” Romans 1:1. A true servant is surrendered to their master. 

We are not talking about surrendering to an evil despotic master, but rather surrendering to a loving God who only wants and provides the very best for us. Jesus told us that He went to prepare a place for us to be with Him for eternity. 

I should point out that there is coming a day when everyone will acknowledge that He is Lord, but those that do so today, in this life will be partakers of the devine nature and spend eternity with Him. “That at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of things in heaven, and things in earth, and things under the earth;” Philippians 2:10

So, what is your response to Jesus today? Are you still trying to control your own life? Are you still hanging on to things that you know He wants to remove from your life? What if you surrender to Jesus, and then you miss out on something that you were just sure you had to have? Will it be worth it?

You have to make your own decision, but I want to encourage you that it will be more than worth it. Nothing you give up for Jesus will even start to compare with what you will gain from surrendering to Jesus.

 Seeing by Faith

Pastor Rajat Kumar Pani, Uppahar, India

BY faith he (Moses) left Egypt, not fearing the King’s anger; he endured because he saw him who is invisible. Hebrews 11:27

In the 11th chapter of the letter to the Hebrews, we find a number of Old Testament characters who are presented to us as examples of faith. 

What will be said about us and our faith once we have left this transitory world and passed into eternity? Will there be anything worth mentioning about our faith and our relationship with God? Or do we just end up, like so many, with countless regrets: “Oh, if only I had...!”

These examples of faith mentioned in Hebrews 11 accomplished the impossible with God. Because they recognized that it is not about them, but about obedience to do God’s will when HE calls.

Moses clung to the one he did not see as if he saw him! That is exactly what faith is. Recognizing that it is not the visible that is the real world, but the invisible, THE INVISIBLE - and yet omnipresent.

Let us be inspired by Moses and the many others who have gone before us. That we do not simply live our lives according to our lusts and pleasures. But that we strive daily to please HIM. A life that is connected to Christ like the branch to the vine. To bear much fruit. Lord grant grace for this.

 THE POWER OF GOD

Anita Clark – Pastor, Carbondale, KS

HOW GREAT IS OUR GOD?  What is the factor that causes the earth to stay in orbit?  What holds the planets and stars in their places in the sky? We find out from the Word of God exactly how all this happens.

THE ABILITY OF GOD?  He made the earth and all creation by His power.  Jeremiah 10:10, 12-13 tells us, “But the LORD is the true God; He is the living God, and an everlasting King: at His wrath the earth shall tremble, and the nations shall not be able to abide His indignation.” “He hath made the earth by His power, He hath established the world by His wisdom, and hath stretched out the heavens by His discretion. When He uttereth His voice, there is a multitude of waters in the heavens, and He causeth the vapors to ascend from the end of the earth: He maketh lightenings with rain, and bringeth forth the wind out of His treasures.”    

In John 1:3 we read, “All things were made by Him, and without Him was not anything made that was made.”  In Colossians 1:12-17, Apostle Paul proclaimed, “Giving thanks unto the Father which hath made us meet (able) to be partakers of the inheritance of the saints in the light. Who hath delivered us from, the power of darkness, and hath translated us into the kingdom of His dear Son: In whom we have redemption through His blood, even the forgiveness of sins: Who is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn of every creature: For by Him were all things created, that are in the heavens, and the earth, visible and invisible, whether they be thrones, or dominions, or principalities, or powers, all things were created by Him, and for Him. And He is before all things, and by Him all things consist.”  

Before Jesus’ birth, Mary, mother of Jesus, was told by the angel Gabriel before the conception how it would be possible. In Luke 1:34-35, Mary asked, “How shall this thing be, seeing I know not a man?”  Verse 35 tells us, “And the angel answered and  said unto her, “The Holy Ghost shall come upon thee, and the power of the Highest shall overshadow thee: therefore also that holy thing which shall be born of thee shall be called the Son of God.” Jesus as Son of God, then became the Son of Man, a title He openly called Himself.  The Prophet Daniel speaks in Daniel 7:13-14, “I saw in the night visions, and, behold, one like the Son of man came with the clouds of heaven, and came to the Ancient of days, and they brought him near before him.  And there was given Him dominion, and glory, and a kingdom, that all people, nations, and languages, should serve Him: His dominion is an everlasting dominion, which shall not pass away, and His kingdom that which shall not be destroyed.” The Creator reduced Himself into a tiny speck.  Jesus, as Son of God, then became the Son of man, a title. Jesus had power in His crucifixion.  John 10:18, Jesus says. No man taketh it (my life) from me, but I lay it down of myself. I  have power to lay it down and I have power to take it again.”

In Philippians 2:5-9, Apostle Paul says, “Let this mind be in you, which is also in Christ Jesus.  Who being in the form of God thought it not robbery to be equal with God. But made Himself of no reputation, and took upon him the form of a servant, and was made in the likeness of men. And being found in the fashion as a man, He humbled Himself, and became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross. Wherefore God hath highly exalted Him, and gives Him a name which is above every name.” Here in this portion is “Seven Downward Steps,” Jesus went through.  II Corinthians 13:4 says, “For though He was crucified through weakness, yet He liveth through the power of God.”    

Ephesians 1:8, Apostle Paul speaks about Jesus, “Wherein He hath abounded toward us in all wisdom and prudence (means “wisdom applied”). Ch. 1:19-20, states “And what is the exceeding greatness of His power to usward who believe, according to the working of His mighty power. Which He wrought in Christ when He raised Him from the dead. And set Him at His own right hand in the heavenly places.”  

God has power for us to become sons, this is provided.  In John 1:11 it tells us, “He (Christ) came unto His own, and his own received Him not” (Speaking of the Jews). Vs. 12 says, “But as many as received Him to them He gave power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe in His name.” Apostle Paul tells us in Romans 1:16, “For I am not ashamed of the Gospel of Christ, for it is the power of God unto salvation to everyone that believeth to the Jew first, and also to the Greek.” Also in I Corinthians 1:18, Paul tells, “For the preaching of the cross is to them that perish foolishness; but unto us who are saved it is the power of God.”

POWER MANIFESTED WHEN GOD SENT THE HOLY SPIRIT - Acts 1:6-8 -”When they therefore were come together, they asked of Him, saying, Lord, will thou at this time restore again the kingdom to Israel?” Jesus answered and said, “...It is not for you to know the times and the seasons, which the Father hath put in His own power.” The “times and seasons” are revealed after we are filled with the Holy Spirit. Vs.8 says, “But ye will receive power after that the Holy Spirit comes upon you.”

Apostle Paul suffered terrible trials.  In II Corinthians 6:3-10, He lists many hard times. In verses 3-10, Paul details His experiences as he moved in the will of God, “ Giving no offence in any thing, that the ministry be not blamed. But in all things approving ourselves as the ministers of God, in much patience, in afflictions in necessities, in stripes, in imprisonments, in tumults, in labours, in watchings and fastings, By pureness, by knowledge, by longsuffering, by kindness, by the Holy Ghost, by love unfeigned” - on and on until vs. 10. In verse 7 particularly it uses the words “By the word of truth, by the power of God, by the armour of righteousness.”  We don’t have power in ourselves, but Ephesians 6:10 gives us the answer, “Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord and in the power of His might.”  

In II Peter 1:2-3, the Word speaks to us, “Grace and peace be multiplied unto you through the knowledge of God, and of Jesus Christ our Lord. According to His divine power hath given unto us all things that pertain unto life and godliness through the knowledge of Him that hath called us to glory and virtue.” The Amplified Text says, “For His divine power has bestowed on us [absolutely] everything necessary for a dynamic spiritual life and godliness through true and personal knowledge of Him who called us by His own glory and excellence.”