Saturday, February 1, 2025
Welcome
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, PastorGrace 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.”
Mystery of the Bride
Part 7
Vicky Moots
If you were to have chest surgery similar to what Adam had, which required the removal of a portion of a rib (most likely the fifth rib), you would experience a very painful post-op recovery period. Why is that? What would make it so painful? Do you recall that I stated previously that there is a nerve that runs in a groove underneath each rib? Well, to remove a portion of a rib would require cutting through that nerve twice, leaving raw nerve fibers on each end. There is, of course, no pain during the surgery because the body is asleep, but when you wake up, you are in extreme pain each time you move or take a breath.
Adam would also have experienced severe pain as a result of the surgery which God used to prepare him a bride. This has important spiritual significance, for Christ, the last Adam, likewise experienced severe pain in order to have a bride. He had to endure the suffering of the cross.
Heb. 12:2 reveals to us the reason that Jesus was able to endure such agony: “Who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross…” What was the joy which He looked forward to? What could possibly bring Him so much joy that it would enable Him to look beyond His sufferings? I believe it was more than just knowing that the work of redemption would be accomplished. I believe that He, like the first Adam, looked forward to the joy of having a bride.
So, we see that both Adam and Christ had to endure suffering and bear scars in their bodies in order to have a bride. What about the bride of Christ? Will she suffer also? The apostle Paul had a desire to know Christ more intimately and was willing to suffer for Him and with Him. He stated in Phil. 3:10, “That I may know him…and the fellowship of his sufferings…”
He wanted to actually enter into the emotional sufferings that Jesus experienced, which included the pain of being hated and rejected, as well as being betrayed, denied and deserted by His friends when He needed them the most. Jesus also experienced the frailty and pain of a human body that was beaten beyond all recognition and the emotional pain of bearing the weight of all our sins.
It wasn’t because Paul wanted to suffer. He simply wanted to know Jesus so intimately that he could understand and share His pain with Him. When you love someone deeply, you are able to experience the pain that they experience. When they hurt, you hurt, for you have become one with them. This is the true heart of a bride who is united with her Bridegroom.
But after the cross, comes the crown. Paul warned Timothy that he would have to suffer many things, just as he did for peaching the gospel, but also told him that there would one day be a reward. He stated in II Tim. 2:12, “If we suffer, we shall also reign with him: if we deny him, he also will deny us [the right to reign].” This is not referring to salvation, only to reigning with Christ.
In Eph. 5:31, Paul states, “For this cause shall a man leave his father and mother, and shall be joined unto his wife, and they shall be one flesh.” This is quoted from Gen. 2:24 regarding Adam and Eve becoming one. In Genesis we see that Adam was not joined unto his whole body, for Eve was only a small part of him, a rib, which was separated out from the rest of his body and then specially prepared by God’s hand and presented back to him, to be joined again to his side, and once again become a part of him.
And so, it is with Christ and His body, the church. Christ was willing to leave His Father and His home in heaven in order to become a man and to be joined to His bride; but he will be joined only to those believers who have yielded to the cutting, the separation and the preparation to become a bride. The espousal and the opportunity to become the bride of Christ is open to all who will respond to the wooing of the Holy Spirit as He calls us to live a life that is separated unto Christ alone.
Three Sentences In Revelation
Earlene Davis
We are going to consider three sentences or phrases recorded in the book of revelation.
#1 – The first phrase is repeated seven times in chapters 2 and 3. That phrase is: “to him that overcometh” – said to the church of Ephesus (2:7); said to Smyrna (2:11); to Pergamos (2:17); said to Thyatira (2:26-29); to Sardis (3:5-6); to Philadelphia (3:12-13); said to the church of Laodicea (3:21-22). These statements are made by our Lord Jesus Christ to the seven church which are a picture of this whole Church Age.
We obviously see that there is a difference in rewards to saints. Overcoming is emphasized by being repeated seven times – “to him that overcometh.” Also each statement is accompanied with this reminder – “He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches.” This tells us that the Holy Spirit is very much involved in our overcoming. He is not only teacher and guide (Jn. 16:13-15 ), but as we yield to God and take in His Word, His Spirit works that Word in our lives. For He is God’s agent working in us “both to will and to do of God’s good pleasure.”
We see a type of the Holy Spirit in the Old Testament in the eldest servant sent by Abraham to bring a wife to his son Isaac. So God the Father has sent the Holy Spirit to prepare a fit wife for His Son, Jesus Christ. God’s Holy Spirit is our Comforter as we journey on in this life. All the time He is revealing to our hearts more and more about our heavenly lover. Jesus said in Jn. 14:26, “the Comforter which is the Holy Spirit whom the Father will send in my name, He shall teach you all things and bring all things to your remembrance whatsoever I have said unto you.”
Jesus also said, “in the world ye shall have tribulation, but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world.” As we yield and let the life of Christ have preeminence in all things – we are enabled to overcome by the power of the Holy Spirit. That we may be able to say as Job did “though He slay me, yet will I trust Him.”
#2 – Lets move on to the second phrase: Rev. 3:10, “Because thou hast kept the word of my patience, I also will keep thee” from the judgment coming on all the world, the tribulation period. V. 11 – there is patience both with Jesus Christ and with us James 5:7-8. Jesus Christ is waiting the signal from His Father to gather His redeemed people unto Himself. We need to be patient as we endure trials and afflictions waiting in faith for that glorious hour when Jesus Christ Himself calls us up.
May our patience be a robust vigorous confidence in God’s love (not just a pathetic sentiment). We do not see or understand all He is doing in us, but we are learning to trust Him in reckless confidence. God has ventured all in Jesus Christ to save us and He wants us to risk our all in Him. There are spots where that faith has not been worked in us as yet.
There were none of those spots in Jesus Christ’s life and the Holy Spirit is working and developing His life in us. There will be a rib portion that will be a glorious church, not having spot or wrinkle or any such thing, but that it should be holy and without blemish – Eph. 5:27, A chaste virgin to Christ – II Cor. 11:2. May we view this life as a glorious opportunity for this marvelous transformation to take place in us.
# 3 – The third phrase is Rev. 4:1, “Come up hither, I and I will show thee things…”. God is continually saying, “Friend go up higher.” Satan uses the strategy of elevation in temptation which appeals to the flesh. But God elevates you by His grace into the heavenly places. Instead of finding a pinnacle to cling to, we find a great tableland where it is easy to move, yet God would have us to keep moving higher.
God desires us to grow in grace and not to measure by the fact that you have not gone back, but have heard God say, “Come up higher.” He will show you things that will enhance your faith and hope and most of all your love. II Pet. 3:18, “…grow in grace, and in the knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. To Him be glory both now and for ever Amen!
To him that overecometh…because thou hast kept the word of my patience…I will keep thee from…
COME UP HIGHER.
Are You Lacking?
Phil Wainright
“Night and day praying exceedingly that we might see your face, and might perfect that which is lacking in your faith?” I Thess. 3:10. The word lacking means a deficit, that which is behind, or wanting. Joshua, a godly and honorable man who walked with God and was one of the spies who brought back a good report - “We are well able to take the land.” After forty years he was still ready to take the land. In Joshua 13:1, the Lord said unto him, Thou art old and stricken in years, and there remaineth yet very much land to be possessed.” There was still more that God wanted to do in the heart of Joshua, there was still yet some “lacking.”
In Daniel 5:27, Belshazzar is described as “Tekel,” meaning weighed and found wanting, deficient. Often we may be tempted to compare our selves with someone else, but the measure is not with one another. In II Cor. 10:12 we read, that is “not wise.” The measure is with someone elsem - Eph. 4:13, the measure is Christ. We realize, “there remaineth yet very much land to be possessed.” God has some things to accomplish in our life.
God desires to make us into the image of His Son, Christ Jesus, Rom. 8:28-29. All that happens in our lives is for this purpose. This work will take all of our life to accomplish. I Thess. 4:12, That we may walk honestly toward them that are without (the unsaved) and that we may have lack of nothing. I think of the prayer of the Psalmist, “Search me, oh God, try me, and know my thoughts: And see if there be any wicked way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting” - Psa. 139:23-24. Paul prayed that God might “perfect.” How can we come to this level of maturity (Perfection) in Christ Jesus? Let us consider five ways in Scripture.
1 – By the Word of God: II Tim. 3:14-17, “Continue thou in…which thou hast heard and been assured of…All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness, that the man of God may be perfect, thoroughly furnished unto all good. Works.” We must learn the Word of God, you cannot take this out of the growth process and fully develop. Just as a newborn child does not automatically do what is right: he makes mistakes and needs instruction. Our selfish tendencies also need correction. God uses His Word to do this.
2 – Through Godly ministers: Eph. 4:8-14, God gave gifts unto men. He gave some, apostles, some prophets, and some, evangelists and some pastors the teachers; “For the perfecting of the saints” (V. 12). These have an important part in the perfecting work that God is doing in our lives.
3 – through prayer: We need to pray if we are to be “perfected.” To pray that God will help us understand His word and to know His will and purpose for our lives. If we do not there will be a lack. We need to pray for other saints also. I am thankful for the prayers of the saints, without their prayers there would be a lack. I am encouraged to pray for God’s people.
4 – Through suffering: “But the God of all grace, who hath called us unto his eternal glory by Christ Jesus, after that ye have suffered a while, make you perfect establish, strengthen, settle you” I Pet. 5:10. A part of what God is doing in our lives is through suffering, but it is necessary to what God is doing in our lives. The all wise God, the creator of heaven and earth, knows what He is doing and troubles and trials come our way. God is always wiser than we are. He knows what is best.
5 – Through patience: “My brethren, count it all joy when ye fall into divers temptations; knowing this, that the trying of your faith worketh patience. But let patience have her perfect work, that ye may be perfect and entire, wanting (lacking) nothing” James 1:2-4. The work God is doing in our lives requires patience. If we are not patient in suffering, (staying in the trials until God delivers), the work will be lacking.
Where was the lack of which Paul spoke? “In your faith.” The body I dwell in will never be perfect - Sin dwells in its members. So where does God want perfection to come? It is our faith, our trust. He wants that to be fully developed and reach a level of perfection. The life that God has called us to live is to be by faith. Gal. 2:20, “the life I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who lived me, and gave himself for me.”
Our faith is being tested – Lk. 22:31-34, the Lord said, “Simon, behold, Satan hath desired to have you, that he may sift you as wheat: But I have prayed for thee, that thy faith fail not…strengthen thy brethren.” Heb. 13:8, Jesus Christ the same yesterday, and today and forever.” Heb. 7:25, “He ever liveth to make intercession for them.” He is praying that my faith fail not, that I will look to him. All God ever called on us to do is to believe Him. Rom. 10:17, “faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the Word of God.” For we walk by faith, not by sight” II Cor. 5:7. Heb. 11:1 “faith if the substance (assurance) of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.”
The flesh was never perfect, but the Old Testament believers of Heb. 11, their faith was made perfect. The Lord Jesus Christ is on one side of the balances, my life is on the other side of the balances, and there is a lack. Through the Word of God, changes are taking place. Faith in God is being developed and that faith is counted to us for righteousness by trusting God (as Abraham did), the balances level because God sees Jesus in us. That alone is His will and purpose for us. The work is complete. He is satisfied. He is glorified.
God of a Small Nation
Part 2
Suresh Manoharan – Hyderabad, India
Fulfilling the Promise
About 300 years ago, the King of Sweden was having personal doubts about God’s existence and the Bible divine nature. He call for Count Von Zinzendorf, who was the bishop of the Moravian Church, to provide evidence about God’s existence and Divine authorship of the Bible. The King told him he had set aside 10 hours to be enlightened on these matters. Zinsendorf said, that much time would not be necessary because all he needed to do was to say two words. The King, skeptical asked, “What words might those be?” Count Von Zinzendorf replied, “The Jews.”
How true! One look at the history of the nation of Israel would convince even a hard core atheist/agnostic about the existence of the Almighty and authenticity of the Bible. Is not the entire history of this Chosen Nation an outworking of (Deut. 28)? Have not all the blessings so graphically described “chased” the people of Israel whenever they have sincerely obeyed their Master. By the same token have not the curses sent by the chastening God “chased” them whenever, they have gone astray?
Not only the Book of Judges where the cyclical “boom” and “doom” periods of Israel’s faith is portrayed, but in fact the entire Old Testament history stands witness to the solemn fact the Jews’ success or failure in any sphere has been directly proportional to their obedience or lack of it to their Good Shepherd. History of one Nation in public domain can be checked and cross-checked umpteen times and the unanimous verdict would be “God of Abraham exists and His words enshrined in scripture are true! Think of it, a normal story teller would gloss over a hero’s sins of commission or omission all with the aim of making the main character appear as a paragon of all virtues’ in the public eye, but the Divine-inspired writers’ of Scriptures – themselves Jews – have never shied away from neither laying bare the serious shortcomings of all Jewish heroes’ of faith nor that of their Nation as a whole. If this is not truthfulness with a capital “T” - then what is it?
Scripture: By no stretch of imagination, would it be an understatement to say that the Christian world owes most of its Cannon to the Jews, barring the good doctor Luke, all other 38 authors of the Bible are of the Jewish origin. For apart from tracing the root cause of ALL the problems’ of this world to the fall of man into sin (Gen. 3:1-7), it also foretells the advent of the Savior right from that very chapter (Gen. 3:15). From one man Adam came sin, from one man Jesus comes salvation (Rom. 5:12-15).
Scripture is God-inspired (2 Tim. 3:16-17; 2 Peter 1:21) to tell us what to believe (Doctrine), also what not to believe in (Correction). How to behave (instruction in righteousness) and not to behave (reproof) (Rom. 6). It’s quite scary right, to think of the Scripture minus all the writings’ of the inspired Jewish authors’. Talk of an average Joe trekking through the Amazon rain forest without a map and a guide in tow…
Part 3 next issue – The Savior
The Encouraging Word
“But it is good for me to draw near to God; I have put my trust in the Lord God and made Him my refuge, that I may tell of all your works.”
Psalm 73:28
“For you are my Rock and my fortress. For your Name’s sake you will lead me and guide me.” Psalm 31:3
“The Lord has made every thing to its own purpose; even the wicked (are fitted for their role) for the day of calamity and evil.” Proverbs 16:4
“You will guard him and keep him in perfect peace whose mind is stayed on you, because he commits himself to you, leans on you and hopes confidently in you. So trust in the Lord – commit yourself to Him – for ever; for the Lord God is an everlasting rock – the Rock of ages.” Isaiah 26:3-4
“Put on therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, bowels of mercies, kindness, humbleness of mind, meekness, longsuffering; Forbearing one another, and forgiving one another, if any man have a quarrel against any: even as Christ forgave you, so also do ye.” Colossians 3:12-13
Praying one for another. We all need prayer. The Lord is Faithful.
Martha Wainright
Wednesday, January 1, 2025
CROWNS OF CHRIST
Jack Davis
“I (John) saw heaven opened, and behold a white horse; and he that sat upon him was called Faithful and True, and in righteousness he doth judge and make war, His eyes were as a flame of fire, and on his head were many crowns…” Rev. 19:11-16.
“MANY CROWNS:” Our dear Lord has gained many crowns and has many yet to gain. He also has many crowns to give. he is the captain of our salvation, Chief Judge, commander in Chief, triumphant General, and preeminent King - I Tim. 1:17. 6:15-16. Although not acknowledged and recognized by all now, He will be soon. He must reign! I Cor. 15:24-28. Crowns tell us of authority, the right to reign with heavenly and earthly dominion – Phil. 2:9-11. Crowns speak of being victorious with victory upon victory. Oh, what battles He has won. In Old Testament times, when one king defeated another, they would take the crown from the head of the defeated king and place it upon the head of the triumphant king – II Sam. 12:29-30. He is to be King over all those being kings and Lord above all those being lords. Our High Priest ever liveth, and makes intercession for even those that he is now developing as kings and priests unto God. His wife, His queen (the rib company of His body) will be His crowning glory – Prov. 12:4. She will have found favor in His sight, for He has long since been King on the throne of her heart. Do you fit? Will you fill a place in such a company? He, in all things will be preeminent.
THE KING’S CONVEYANCE: “I saw in the night vision, 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…that shall not be destroyed” – Dan. 7:13-14. Daniel sees Jesus (the Ancient of days), with the clouds of heaven, and they bring Him. Then we view His coronation. It seems that the saints of God, especially full overcomers will have a special place in crowning Him. Those most aware of His right to reign, for they have been honoring Him during their earthly sojourn. I believe those most submissive to Him today, will be most vocal at his coronation tomorrow.
THE WISE MEN: “When Jesus was born…there came wise man from the east to Jerusalem, Saying, Where is he that is born King of the Jews?…and are come to worship him” – Mt. 2:1,2. It seems they offered him a Jewish crown. Wise men today seek Him, and gratefully shower Him with gifts of love, in whole hearted worship. Any and every king in his won right would be wise to abdicate any throne in honor and worship of the ultimate King of glory – Psa. 24:1-10. How marvelously those wise men of that time sensed the Christ child’s destiny to reign. So where is he today for us? Thank God, he is found in more than history. He is not still in the cradle, He is not yet on the cross, or in the tomb. Glory to God, He overcame and has sit down with His Father in His throne – Rev. 3:21. We wisely acknowledge Him as Lord and King in our homes, and in our hearts. In Isaiah 9:6-7 we read of the wonderful child that was born, of whom the angels said “glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men.” We will praise God forever for the precious Son that was given, even the Father’s unspeakable gift. Then we are moved with the greatest awe when we realize that the government will be on His shoulders. The one who humbled himself and became obedient unto death even the death of the cross.
OFFERED A JADED CROWN: Mt. 4:8-9, “Again, the devil taketh him up into an exceeding high mountain, and showeth him all the kingdoms of the world, and the glory of them; And saith unto him, All these things will I give thee, if thou wilt fall down and worship me.” Here was a usurper offering Jesus the crown without the cross. Satan suggested an easier route to the throne, but He didn’t disclose what a miserable kingdom he would take over, had it not been redeemed by the blood of the Lamb. Jesus is destined to lead in spiritual worship a kingdom of kings and priest unto God our Father. Thank God, Jesus put Satan to flight with the Spirit’s sword, “It is written.” But very soon it will become evident that there is a man who will have accepted the offer of the god of this world – Rev. 13:2-4, but his reign will be short lived. Jesus will remove all false claimant to the throne – II Thess. 2:4-9.
HIS FRIENDS & CLOSE ASSOCIATES: Jn. 6:14-15, “Then those men, when they had seen the miracle that Jesus did, said, This is of a truth that prophet that should come into the world. When Jesus perceived that they would come and take him by force, to make him a king, departed again into a mountain himself alone.” Although they came with good intentions and shortsighted focus, or possibly ulterior motives, Jesus’ being crowned had to be done God’s way and in His time. They didn’t fully know Him or all that He was about, or destined for.
THE CROWN WE GAVE HIM: Jn. 19:5, “Then came Jesus forth, wearing the crown of thorns, and the purple robe. And Pilate saith unto them, Behold the man!” The whole fallen sinful human race, gave him this crown of suffering, sorrow, and disgrace. In every test, trial, temptation, contest, or conflict; He was always the king in every sense of the world. Hallelujah, He has come forth wearing the crown. At Galilee He walked its shores, rebuked the winds, calmed the waves, made the lame to walk, the dumb to talk and caused the blind to see. At Gethsemane, He asked the Father: “Let this cup pass from me,” but won the victory, saying “Not my will but thine be done.” Oh, what a triumphant Son. There at Gabbatha, “the pavement,” even the judgment seat of man, He was proven to be God’s spotless lamb. Pilate was made to say repeatedly “I find no fault in Him.” On, to Galgotha we hear Him say, triumphantly, “It is finished,” after all He had suffered there. He is soon to be acknowledged as the King of Glory!
CROWNS HE WILL GIVE: He has invited us to go after and claim the crowns He has paid for and fully provided that we win. His precious Word teaches us just what it takes to make up winners. He makes us know that He offers those which are incorruptible – I Cor. 9:24-27. He also gives us the rules involved, if ignored or broken will cause disqualification – II Tim. 2:5. There are offered crowns of righteousness which the Lord the righteous judge will give, unto those that fall deeply in love with Him enough to be loving His appearing. This love has His people living in the light, running by His might – II Tim. 4:8. He has promised crowns of life to those that love Him enough to endure temptation and to be faithful unto death – James 1:12, Rev. 2:10. He has crowns of glory for His faithful under shepherds – I Pet. 5. As we develop in the Lord, He gives each some measure of undershepherd responsibility wherein we are enabled to nourish another. Our dear Lord crowns His own with loving kindness and tender mercies, so that He can make to reign, in life, those fully trusting in Him. Shall we not be soberly impressed with what the crown winners are seen doing with their crowns in that eternal state? They are seen worshiping Him with theirs at His feet. He is seen wearing His many crowns, and the full overcomers are in absolute agreement. Their joyous song, “Thou art worthy!”
New Years
Gordon Crook, PastorGrace Assembly, Wichita, Kansas
Again, we come to the end of one year, and the beginning of another. This is the time people make resolutions for the new year. I do not want to make resolutions that I may not be able to keep. I do not know what will be of tomorrow, so I’ll simply trust the Lord each day, and take one day at a time. “But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you. Take therefore no thought for the morrow: for the morrow shall take thought for the things of itself. Sufficient unto the day is the evil thereof.” Matthew 6:33-34.
I do like to look back at the past year, not to dwell on the past, but to see and be reminded what the Lord has done for me, and what He has taught me. “O sing unto the LORD a new song; for he hath done marvelous things: . . .” Psalms 98:1. “Remember his marvelous works that he hath done; his wonders, and the judgments of his mouth;” Psalms 105:5.
This past year has been a good year, as have been all the years that I have walked with the Lord. Not that there have not been trials, but even in the trials, the Lord has shown Himself faithful, and good. “Beloved, think it not strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you, as though some strange thing happened unto you: But rejoice, inasmuch as ye are partakers of Christ’s sufferings; that, when his glory shall be revealed, ye may be glad also with exceeding joy.” 1 Peter 4:12-13. We have learned many things about trusting the Lord for every need. We have seen the Lord’s hand in everything in our lives. Even as we made some plans and tried to do things our way, we found that the Lord went ahead of us and brought things about much better than we could have planned.
Every year seems to go by faster and faster, as we eagerly await the return of our Lord. “For the grace of God that bringeth salvation hath appeared to all men, Teaching us that, denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, we should live soberly, righteously, and godly, in this present world; Looking for that blessed hope, and the glorious appearing of the great God and our Saviour Jesus Christ;” Titus 2:11-13. It is important to be reminded often that our purpose is to live as though the Lord is going to return today, while we continue our work every day pointing people to Jesus. Every situation that comes our way, is part of our preparation to meet the Lord in the air. More and more each year it seems the world has more to distract us from our Lord.
Jesus reminded Peter that the relationship between them was personal. In John 21:22, Peter is looking at another disciple and wondering about him and Jesus tells him “. . . what is that to you? You follow me!” We each have a personal relationship with our Lord, and He has called each of us to a particular ministry. We should not get distracted by what others are doing, and look only to Jesus and follow Him.
I look back and realize that on many occasions we were distracted, even if for a short time. As we go forward into 2025, we need to keep our focus on Jesus. Not on Christian ‘things.’ Not on man made religiousness. Not on politics. Not on earthly citizenship. “But our citizenship is in heaven, and from it we await a Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ,” Philippians 3:20 ESV. Not on acquiring things. Simply keep our focus on Jesus. Our faith, trust, and confidence completely in Him.
There will be much turmoil this year, even as there was last year. It will not get better, but worse. There will be uncertainty, there will be fear. Men who seek power love to use fear to move people in their direction. However, we must remember that our Lord is in ultimate control. “Keep your life free from love of money, and be content with what you have, for he has said, “I will never leave you nor forsake you.” So we can confidently say, “The Lord is my helper; I will not fear; what can man do to me” Hebrews 13:5-6 (ESV).
If the Lord has not been given complete control of your life, this is the time to let Him. “Not that I speak in respect of want: for I have learned, in whatsoever state I am, therewith to be content. I know both how to be abased, and I know how to abound: every where and in all things I am instructed both to be full and to be hungry, both to abound and to suffer need. I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me.” Philippians 4:11-13.
If you look back over the last year, and do not see the Lord’s hand in your life, then perhaps today is the time to yield to Him. Why go another moment without Jesus in control of your life. You will find the trials useful instead of dreary and overwhelming. You will find peace in the turmoil of this world. Jesus did not promise us an easy life, but He certainly promised us that He would be with us, and that in the end, it would be worth it all.
I cannot emphasize enough how close we are getting to the coming of our Lord. I do not know the day nor hour, but it cannot be long now. Why go another year, or even another day just going through life without giving thought to the coming of the Lord. What real value is there in the things that the world offers? Life is just too short to waste on temporal things, when God offers eternal things.
So, if you reflect on the past year, consider what the Lord has done, and give Him thanks. Consider what you have learned of the Lord, and give Him thanks. I know Thanksgiving is already past, but not for the child of God. Give thanks this new year. “It is a good thing to give thanks unto the LORD, and to sing praises unto thy name, O most High:” Psalms 92:1.
Jesus Christ
Anita Clark – Pastor, Carbondale, KS
“And the angel said unto her, Fear not Mary, for thou hast found favour with God. And behold, thou shalt conceive in the womb, and bring forth a son, and shall call His name JESUS.” Luke 1:30-31. God spoke to Mary to name the child “Jehoshua” which is the same name Joshua, Moses’ helper and deliverer of Israel into Canaan in the Old Testament.
In our English text, His name is Jesus, which is actually the Greek term of His name. The Name “Jesus” is the name used, translated from Greek Texts to Latin, which stayed in the Bible in that Latin form for centuries. They finally began to use the name “Jesu” and then finally “Jesus.” There are many different names in their language for “Jesus.” The name Joshua in the old Testament means “Jehovah saved.”
1. His birth proved He was God. The scripture details where He would be born.
2. Micah 5:2, tells us, “But thou, Bethlehem Ephratah, though thou be little among the thousands of Judah, yet out of thee shall come forth unto me that is to be ruler in Israel; (to reign, dominion and power) whose goings forth have been from of old, from everlasting.” In vs.4, it says of Jesus Christ, “for now shall He be great unto the ends of the earth.”
3. The Lord gave a Sign In Isaiah 7:14 the prophecy says, “Therefore the Lord Himself shall give you a sign; Behold a virgin shall conceive and bear a son, and shall call His name Immanuel (which means God with us.)” At the same time that Micah the Prophet foretold the exact city where Messiah would be born, Isaiah foretold the exact condition. The “sign” given by God would be “a signal, beacon and evidence.”
4. Jesus Miraculous Birth Was fulfilled -Isaiah 9:6-7 The prophecy given again to Isaiah. “For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given; and the government shall be upon His shoulder; and His name shall be called Wonderful, Counselor, the Mighty God, The Everlasting Father, the Prince of Peace.” His miraculous birth was fulfilled in Luke 2:1-7 approximately 750 years after the Scripture foretold Messiah would be born to a virgin.
5. Jesus Behavior Proved He was God - His love for all, whether poor, rich or friendly or whether they rejected Him. His love was unlimited.
6. His conduct Proved He was God. He was absolutely sinless. He always depended on God the Father. His miracles proved He was God, healing diseases, raising the dead, feeding the thousands with bread and fish. Touching and healing even lepers. He calmed the storm and walked on water.
7. He could have defended Himself and called angels to deliver Him from the cross, but He healed his enemy’s ear and forgave the thief on the cross, and gave up His own life when He bore the sacrifice for our sins and all the world’s - IT WAS FINISHED.
8. His claims Proved He was God- the High Priest condemned Him for answering, when the High Priest asked Him if he claimed to be God. Jesus answered “I am.”
9. He showed Himself to be God - He dismissed His own spirit, rising from the dead, ascending to heaven. WHO DO YOU SAY HE IS?
There are so many Scriptures in the Word of God which emphasize who Christ Jesus would be and who He is. Some of the Scriptures are:
Genesis 22:18, “And in thy seed, shall all the nations of the earth be blessed.”
Numbers 24:17 -”I see him but not now; I behold him, but not near, a Star will come out of Jacob; a scepter will rise out of Israel.”
Isaiah 11:1, “A shoot will come up from the stump of Jesse; from His roots a branch will bear fruit. The Spirit of the Lord will rest on Him.”
Jer. 23:5-6 - The days are coming, declares the Lord, when I will raise up for David a righteous Branch, a king, who will reign widely and do what is just and right in the land. This is the name by which He will be called; The Lord Our Righteous Savior.”
Psalms 72:9,10 - “May the desert tribes bow before Him and His enemies lick the dust...May all kings bow down to Him and all nations serve Him.”
Isaiah 40:3-5 - “The voice of Him that crieth in the wilderness, Prepare the way of the LORD, make straight in the desert a highway for our God. Every valley shall be exalted, and every mountain and hill shall be made low; and the crooked shall be made straight, and the rough places plain. And the glory of the LORD shall be revealed, and all flesh shall see it together; for the mouth of the LORD hath spoken it.”
Mystery of the Bride
Part 6
Vicky Moots
We are not told in Genesis which rib was removed from Adam to prepare a bride for him, but it wouldn’t surprise me if God, the Great Physician, who performed that first surgery had chosen the fifth rib on the left. That particular rib lies immediately under the breast and directly over the mid-portion of the heart.
That location is certainly an appropriate position in the body of Christ for the bride: close to His heart, which speaks of love, and next to His breast, which speaks of nourishment. The bride of Christ loves Him supremely and hungers and thirsts for Him. She is completely satisfied with His love. The number five in Scripture is considered to be the number of grace. The bride understands that she was chosen, not because of her beauty or accomplishments, but because of His grace.
In the natural, when surgery is required on the lungs, a special procedure, called a thoracotomy, is performed. During this procedure, an incision is usually made over the fifth rib since it is in the middle of the chest. If a lobe of a lung must be resected because of cancer, or other disease, then a portion of the fifth rib may need to be removed in order to provide more room to work inside the chest cavity. Surgeons choose that rib because it has been discovered through years of experience that removal of the fifth rib does not interfere with the mechanics of breathing.
When Adam’s surgery was complete, he had a bride, but he also had a scar, for surgery always leaves a scar. I believe that both the first Adam and the last Adam, Christ, have a scar on the left side of their chest, under the fifth rib, at the location of the heart: Why do I think this to be so?
When Christ died on the cross, the soldier wanted to be sure that He was actually dead, so he took his spear and pierced Him in the side. The spear had to enter into the left chest cavity, into the heart, and not into the abdominal cavity, or the contents would not have been blood and water. Soldiers knew their anatomy well. Their target was the heart. They knew that the heart was located under the fifth rib. We read in II Sam. 3:27 that when Joab killed Abner, that he “smote him under the fifth rib, that he died…” Smiting someone under the fifth rib to kill them was common practice in Old Testament warfare (read II Sam. 2:23, 4:6 and 20:10). How did soldiers know where to find the fifth rib if they couldn’t see the ribs to count them? Very simple: the fifth rib is the one that is right under the breast, just below the nipple.
The last part of Gen. 2:21 tells us that after God removed the rib from Adam, He “closed up the flesh instead thereof.” He is a very thorough Surgeon. The Bible provided us this very important medical detail. The final part of any surgery is to close up the wound. God is always faithful to finish a work that He has started.
If your desire is to be a part of the bride of Christ, then you can be sure that God will continue working in you to make you ready, as long as you are willing to let Him. He will not close up the flesh until He is through with the cutting. The work will not be complete until your life is ended or until Christ returns, as Paul tells us in Phil. 1:6: “Being confident of this very thing, that he which hath begun a good work in you will perform it until the day of Jesus Christ.”
Little by little, whittle by whittle, with each skillful cut of the unerring scalpel of the Word of God, in the hands of the Master Surgeon, we are being changed into the image of His dear Son, as He prepares us to become a spotless bride, like unto the spotless Lamb, so that we may be ready to reign with Him.
Leaving and Cleaving
By Phil Wainright
By leaving we are able to cleave! If we are not willing to leave, it is impossible for us to cleave. To often, people tend to cleave to things they should leave, and leave the things to which they should cleave. God teaches us about leaving and Cleaving through the example of the Husband and Wife. Gen. 2:24, “a man shall leave his father and his mother, and shall cleave unto his wife: and they shall be one flesh.” The word “leave” means, to loose, to depart from, to leave behind (Strong). The word “cleave” means, to cling, to stick to, to join (Thayer).
Jesus quoted Gen. 2:24 and added, “What therefore God hath joined together, let not man put asunder.” “Put asunder” means to place room between, to part, to separate. In Eph. 5:31-32 Paul also quotes Gen. 2:24 and says, “This is a great mystery: but I speak concerning Christ and the church.” God is looking for a people that will cleave wholly to Him, just as a husband and wife cleave to one another.
Instructions on “cleaving unto the Lord,” beginning with the Old Testament. Deut. 11:22, “For if ye shall diligently keep all these commandments which I command you to do, to love the LORD your God, to walk in all His ways, and to cleave unto Him.” Notice keeping His Word, love the LORD and walk in all His ways, is cleaving to Him. God has spoken to mankind about things that please Him and things that displease Him. If we please Him there is blessing. He calls for a people simply to love Him. This is the glue that enables us to cleave to Him, no matter whatever trials and troubles may come. Deut. 13:4, “Ye shall walk after the LORD your God. And fear him and obey His voice, you shall serve and cleave unto him.” Fear Him means to revere or reverence (strong). Recognizing He is the God of the universe, obey His voice. If we are not careful, we tend to obey God only when it is something we want to do and disobey when we would rather not, like a child would. Serve Him, and coming to a place of perfection in our spiritual lives, we will develop as God intends.
What does it means to cleave unto the Lord? Acts 11:23, “Who, when he came, and had seen the grace of God, was glad, and exhorted them all, that with purpose of heart they would cleave unto the Lord.” We must purpose in our hearts to cleave unto the Lord. Eph. 6:6, “…doing the will of God from the heart.” In our relationship with the Lord, difficult things need to be decided. Mt. 10:35-37, “For I am come to set a man at variance against his father, the daughter against her mother…A man’s foes shall be they of his own household. He that loveth father or mother more than me is not worthy of me.” “Variance” means “to make apart, to sunder, alienate. There may be relationships that we simply must leave behind if we are to cleave wholly unto the Lord.
Rom. 12:9, “Let love be without dissimulation (hypocrisy), unfeigned. Abhor that which is evil; cleave to that which is good.” Our society seems to abhor that which is evil less and less. II Thess. 2:12, Paul states, “That they all might be damned who believed not the truth, but had pleasure in unrighteousness.” We must not conform to society, there are choices to be made.
Col. 3:14, “And above all these put on love, which binds everything together in perfect harmony.” Love is what causes us to leave certain things, like old pleasures and to cleave to the Lord. Love binds us together. Col. 2:2, “That their hearts might be comforted, being knit together in love, and unto all riches of the full assurance of understanding, to the acknowledgement of the mystery of God, and of the Father, and of Christ.” Spiritual maturity leads to a love for one another and love for the Lord Jesus Christ. “And hope maketh not ashamed; because the love of God is shed abroad in our hearts by the Holy Ghost which is given unto us” – Rom. 5:5.
Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or peril, or sword?” – Rom. 8:35. The word separate here means to “put asunder.” There is no power that can separate us from the love of God. A song that I have grown to love is entitled. “I am His, and He is Mine.” Some of my favorite phrases are, “In a love which cannot cease;” “His forever, only His;” “Who the Lord and me shall part?” May we learn to respond to that same love!
Feast of Dedication
(Hanukkah)
Earlene Davis
“And it was at Jerusalem the feast of the dedication, and it was winter. And Jesus walked in the temple in Solomon’s porch.” John 10:22-23
I believe this is the only time we find this feast mentioned in the Bible. It is Hanukkah, which many Jews celebrate in this year, beginning on the evening of Dec. 25 to the evening of Jan. 2. Hanukkah means “dedication.” This feast commemorates an event that occurred during the period between the Old Testament and the New Testament (about 165 BC).
A Syrian King named Antiochus invaded Israel and demanded the Jews to abandon the worship of their God. He forced “Hellenization,” of Greek customs and religion on the Jews. To make sure that the Jews could not worship their God, he defiled the Temple in Jerusalem. He placed Greek idols in the Temple and sacrificed a sow on the altar. Antiochus took the title “Epiphanes” which means, “god manifested” and demanded to be worshiped.
God had promised Abraham many, many years before that He would preserve and sustain his descendants forever (Gen. 13:15; 17:7,8,13,19). God said to Abraham, “In thee shall all families of the earth be blessed” (Gen. 12:3), Christ would be born of his descendants.
God raised up a family of heroes, the Maccabees (their name means “hammer”). They led a small band in revolt against Antiochus and his mighty army and drove the Syrians out of Israel. The high point of that victory was rededicating the Temple in Jerusalem. This is why the holiday is called Hanukkah (dedication).
There is a legend, that they needed consecrated oil to rekindle the sacred candelabra. They only found enough oil for one day and it would take eight full days to make enough oil for Temple use. Tradition says that a great miracle happened, called the “miracle of the oil.” The oil for one day continued to burn for eight whole days, enough time to make and sanctity new oil. That is why Hanukkah is celebrated for eight nights and why the Hanukkah menorah is lit for eight nights.
In any case Israel’s victory over Antiochus and his mighty army showed forth a great miracle of God’s preserving power. God would not allow Satan to use Antiochus to destroy Israel because of His promise to Abraham. If Satan could have destroyed the Jews, he would make God a liar and the promise to Abraham (Christ) could not be born of Abraham’s seed.
The Jews were well aware of the event that occasioned the Feast of Dedication when they approached Jesus on Solomon’s porch. They reasoned that if He was the Messiah, He had power to preserve them from the tyranny of the Romans, as God had preserved them from Antiochus (V. 24). Jesus answered them with a rebuke – “I told you, and ye believed not: the works that I do in my Father’s name, they bear witness of me” (V. 25). Jesus boldly asserted His Messiahship. The works that I do in My Father’s name bear witness of Me. They were His credentials from the Father. He had divine power to preserve and sustain His people, but not in the way they hoped or expected. “But ye believe not, because ye are not of my sheep, as I said unto you” (V. 26). They had the witness of His words and His works and they believed not. By refusing to acknowledge His words or works, they were rejecting Him and His Father.
“My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me: And I give unto them eternal life; and they shall never perish, neither shall may man pluck them out of my hand” (Vs. 27-28). Those who believe on Him have a new nature and are called SHEEP. He plainly declares that His sheep SHALL NEVER PERISH. His power to preserve was eternal and spiritual. It was based on faith in Him as the Anointed One of God. The salvation He offered was not from Roman oppression, but from the oppression of Satan, sin and death. The dedication of the Temple was a reminder of God’s power to keep His promises and preserve His people. But One greater than the Temple stood on Solomon’s porch that day.
“My Father, which gave them me, is greater than all; and no man is able to pluck them out of my Father’s hand. I and my Father are one” (Vs. 29-30). Jesus strongly affirms the absolute security of His people Oh, what words of assurance and comfort these are. THEY ARE MINE, He declares, “My sheep.” The Father gave them to Me. He is greater than all, no one is able to pluck them out of the Father’s hand. Then he declares His oneness with the Father, “I and the Father are One.”
It was fresh in their minds because of Hanukkah, how they had rightly reject the false claims of Antiochus. They asked Jesus for a plain statement of His identity and when He told them He was the true One, what is their reaction? Unbelief. They could not deny His power nor His goodness, but the fact that an apparent ordinary Man should claim to be the Son of God, was too much for them to believe. They “took up stones again to stone him” ( V. 31). But they could not carry out their evil purpose, for it was not yet His time.
They rejected their Messiah and missed an even greater miracle than Israel’s against-all-odds victory over the overwhelming Syrian army. What they missed was greater than if Jesus had saved them from the Roman government. They missed the miracle of Emmanuel, God with us. Jesus has the power to preserve those who come to Him, Heb. 7:25.
God keeps His promises – Isa. 7:14; 9:6. Jesus fulfilled these promises. In Him God has proven His faithfulness to Israel and to all the world. He will save and keep all those who call upon His name through faith in Jesus. He has made each believer to be His own Temple, where Emmanuel, God with us has taken up residence. May we dedicate ourselves anew to live for Him by the power of the Holy Spirit.
GOD OF A SMALL NATION
Suresh Manoharan – Hyderabad, India
For a good 2000 years of its scriptural history tracing back to the call of that Father of Faith Abraham…the Almighty Creator has indeed been God of this small Nation in West Asia, Israel. Its land area is only 0.85% of our great country of India? Israel celebrated its 66th year of “rebirth” on May 14th. Now what is it about Israel that interests all keen Bible students? The reason is simple and profound. The world’s future events are inter-twined with Israel’s second birth, as it were. Yours Truly has attempted to bring to the fore the significance of Israel to all follower’s of the Lord God.
Israel’s selection in God’s grand scheme of things to bring the Savior and Salvation to this world can be put down to His grace alone. Firstly calling Abraham out from his idol-worshiping relatives and entering into a covenant with him (Gen. 12:1-4, & Ch. 15, & Joshua 24:2-3). “The Lord did not set his love on you nor choose you because you were more in number than any of the peoples, for you were the fewest of all peoples, but because the Lord loved you and kept the oath which He swore to your forefathers, the Lord brought you out by a mighty hand and redeemed you from the house of slavery, from the hand of Pharaoh king of Egypt” – Deut. 7:7-8.
Israeli liberation from the Egyptian captivity foreshadowed the Redemption plan which Christ by His atoning death on the cross completed. Anyone who puts his trust on Christ to take away his sins, immediately experiences liberation from a slavery far more dangerous than the Egyptian bondage – SIN. God did not liberate the Jews from their slavery because they were good and holy but rather to make them good and holy. The Law was given to them after their liberation and not prior to it. Similarly Jesus liberates a Christian from sin to make for Himself a “Holy Bride.” He uses His Word and the Spirit to mold a saved Christian into a spotless, beautiful bride ready for the ethereal marriage (Rev. 19:7-9).
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The Encouraging Word
“Arise, O God, judge the earth! For to you belong all the nations.” Psalm 82:8
“The earth is the Lord’s and the fullness of it! The world and they who dwell in it.” Psalm 24:1
“The Lord of hosts is with us; the God of Jacob – our high tower and strong hold.” Psalm 46:11
“Trust, lean on, rely on and have confidence in Him at all times you people; pour out your heart before Him. God is a refuge for us – a fortress and a high tower.” Selah!
Psalm 62:8
“Be content with such things as you have: for He has said, I will never leave you, nor forsake you. So that we may boldly say, the Lord is my helper, and I will not fear what man shall do unto me.” Hebrews 13:5-6
“In the multitude of my (anxious) thoughts within me, Your comforts cheer and delight my soul!” Psalm 94:19
“Pray at all times – on every occasion, in every season – in the Spirit, with all (manner of) prayer and entreaty…” Ephesians 6:18
“The Lord takes pleasure in those who reverently and worshipfully fear Him, in whose hope is His mercy and loving kindness.” Psalm 147:11
Martha Wainright