WHO ARE THEY?

A PEOPLE FOR HIS NAME.
 
Why is the Lord visiting the so called, "Third world nations" with revival fires?  He does nothing without a purpose, and has meaning in all of His works.


GOD DID VISIT THE GENTILES. 
The Lord is determined to have a people who will glorify His name in the end of the age. While there are many trials and difficulties facing the church in the end of the age, it is a glorious and triumphant time for those who will follow the leading of the Spirit and the Word. The reason for His visit then is the same as today. He is taking out of them, "a people for Himself." As He did in the first Apostolic age. Acts 15:14 

The gentle wind of the Spirit is blowing upon them to bring forth a church of might and power. Recipients of the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, are being endowed with an Apostolic ministry. Developing an "obedience to the faith among ALL NATIONS, for His name's sake. Rom. 1:5

BOLD OUTSPOKEN MEN OF FAITH AND VISION. 
We know that the early Apostolic church consisted of Israelites. Paul and Barnabas were to break that spirit of superiority and nationalism by turning from their own race and going to the Gentiles. 

Their rebuke directed to a stubborn and obstinate people was strong and to the point. They had rejected the gospel of truth and therefore deemed themselves "unworthy of everlasting life." That sounds so final. Therefore, they turned to the Gentiles. Acts 13:46 

Their actions were in the perfect will of the Lord. They were led to complete the works that had been uttered by the prophetic voice in Israel. Acts 15:15

ISAIAH PROPHECIED OF THIS TURN OF EVENTS. 
He stated that the root that should come of Jesse would become a sign which would attract the Gentiles and cause them to seek after that root of life. There, they would find rest and a glorious life. No matter how hard life becomes, with Christ there is always the glory of the Lord upon our lives. Isa. 11:10 

Furthermore, Isaiah said that the Lord "would bring justice to the Gentiles". Isaiah 42:1

Jesus was also "to be a light, a glorious, wonderful light of life" to the Gentiles. Isa. 42:6 

While at the same time taking the Word of salvation to the ends of the earth and to the end of the age. Isa. 49:6 

The Lord said that He would beckon with His hand to the Gentiles, calling them to Himself. Isa. 49:22      



A PEOPLE FOR HIS NAME.  2

A PROMISED LAST DAY HARVEST. 
The stream of salvation will cause a flowing together of the great family of the Lord in the earth. If we have all received the same Spirit, the Holy Spirit, then why are we not of one spirit? This is in the process of changing. The Lord will have a church that is one body. Unified in every way. No longer spastic and uncoordinated but one in Christ. Like a field of grain, blown upon by the wind, waving, stirred and motivated together as one. Isaiah prophesied that there would be a vision and a flowing together. Isa. 60:5 

The NIV translates verse 1a in this manner, "Then you will look and be radiant" How beautifully that fits in with the vision that was given to John on Patmos of the radiant Bride who was clothed with the sun, the full glory of the Lord. Rev. 12:1 

The second statement in the NIV for Isa. 60:5b is "your heart  will throb and swell with joy." Even today, in the beginnings of the last day revival our hearts are gladdened and we rejoice in the mighty thing that the Lord is doing in the earth. He proclaimed that the abundance of the sea [a type of humanity] would be brought to Him and the multitudes of the Gentiles. Before Jesus can return, there must be a great harvest of souls.

PAUL URGED UNITY OF MIND AND SPEECH. 
Christ is not divided. The church must go beyond the ability to "put up" with one another and come to a place where faith is "one faith." Having the mind of the Spirit and all speaking the same thing. 1 Cor. 1:10 

There is not a superfluous word in the Word of the Lord. His will shall be done and He will have a perfect church, formed and shaped after the likeness of Christ. Built together after His desires and purposes. Paul spoke of the Gentiles placing their trust for salvation in Christ and also of His leadership among them. Rom. 15:12 

The Gentiles glorify the Lord because His abundant mercy has been revealed to them and they are partakes of the same. It was David [a type of Christ] who prophetically spoke of the ministry of Christ among the Gentiles. Rom. 15:9 

Paul acknowledged himself to be a minister to the Gentiles, having preached among them by the power of the Holy Spirit, bringing them into obedience to the Word. Also, seeing mighty signs and wonders wrought among them, the seal of the will of the Lord was upon His efforts in their midst. Rom. 15:18-19 

The irony of this whole affair is that the preponderance of the members of the body of Christ will be Gentiles due to the fact that they are the largest segment of the population of the world today.
 


 
A PEOPLE FOR HIS NAME. 3
 
A PEOPLE OUT OF A PEOPLE. A nation consisting of all nations. They are identified by the fact that they have received the abundant mercy of the Lord. 1 Pet. 2:10 

They are the posterity of the Lord. A people who will gladly serve Him and accomplish His will and desires toward them. They are committed fully to Him. They are called the generation [a revolution of time] of the Lord. The word generation may also be translated to mean "a dwelling, to remain, stable." It is this generation which will see the completion of the work of the Lord on the earth and become the Temple of the Most High.


NOW MY PEOPLE. 
The blessings of the Lord bestowed on a people who are called the "vessels of mercy", to whom He will make known the fullness of the "riches of His glory." That which is the very excellent and personal glory of the Lord, Himself. In others words they are to be filled with all the fullness of the Almighty. 

The ultimate splendor, majesty and beauty of the Lord will be upon His chosen. These are His called be they Jews or Gentiles. Through the prophet Hosea He had prophesied of a time when there would be a people, made of a people who had not been His. Also where they had not been loved and cared for, they would be the love and delight of His heart. Where once He had denied them He would now call them "children of the living God." Rom. 9:23-26


THE HIGH CALLING. 
A spiritual prize superceding all earthly prizes; as spiritual and as deep in the things of the Lord as Paul was, he saw even more and greater benefits to be gained. For these he was willing to exert great effort. Phil. 3:14 

That invitation is to partake of all the blessings and goodness of the kingdom of our Lord Jesus, and that eternal glory with which the Father has clothed Him. 1 Thess. 2:12 

That calling is to partner with Him in partaking of His glory and virtue. Therefore, being the called of the Lord we are also to benefit from His divine power being made manifest in our lives, and meeting all of our needs. 

He said "all things" which pertain unto life and godliness. Most assuredly, when our lives please Him we may rest assured that His bountiful storehouse of both spiritual and natural necessities are made available to us. When we do our part we free His hands to bless us and to supply our every need. 2 Pet. 1:3 

To seal this truth to us He has given exceeding great and precious promises, that we might be partakes of His divine nature. 2 Pet. 1:4    




A PEOPLE FOR HIS NAME.  4

CALLED A CHOSEN GENERATION OR RACE. 
The Lord is preparing a new race of people for Himself. They are not like any of the races that now make up the population of this earth. They are a nation consisting of people from every tongue, tribe and nation. They are the redeemed of the Lord. Those who follow Christ and are obedient to the instructions of His Word. 1 Pet. 2:9a 

Jesus said concerning them, "You have not chosen Me, but I have chosen you." John 15:16 

Were it not for Jesus there would be no choices made. There is a key to this element of choosing that must be understood. He did not choose one and then reject the next in line. We are chosen "In Him." In Christ, God was reconciling THE WORLD, the whole of mankind, unto Himself. 2 Cor. 5:19 

Beginning with Adam down to the last man to die on the earth, Christ died for ALL. 2 Cor. 5:15 

The plan of salvation has always been extended to all of mankind, every where and in all generations since His death, burial and resurrection. The Lord is "not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance." 2 Peter. 3:9 

Those who come to Christ in brokenness and contrition of heart are the chosen of the Lord.


THE LORD, IN HIS FOREKNOWLEDGE CONFIRMED THE CHOSEN.   
He has the aptitude of being able to know the end from the beginning. Therefore He knows all circumstances pertaining to everyone ever to be born into his world. How much more does He know those who would desire to come to Him. Isa. 46:10

Knowing exactly everyone who would respond, He predestined that they should be conformed to the image of His Son. Please note that predestination is not to salvation but to the exceeding great privilege of being in the "image of His Son." Rom. 8:29 

Predestination is directed at the finished produce not at its birth. Every Christian should be in a process of constant and daily change. Being made more and more like Jesus. As we look into the mirror of the Word it shows us our spiritual standing with the Lord. As we recognize our spiritual needs - and respond - we are being changed into His image, His likeness and character becoming ours. 

So often a young preacher will have the characteristics and expressions of his mentor. You may not know their origin but if you know the man who tutored them, the teacher is evident in the student. We are to exemplify Christ by progressing from "glory to glory" by the Spirit of the Lord. 2 Cor. 3:18 

These chosen "in Him" are to be "holy and without blame before Him in love." Eph. 1:4           




A PEOPLE FOR HIS NAME. 5

THE LORD HAS CHOSEN HIS OWN INHERITANCE. 
This appears to have a two-fold meaning. First the Lord has chosen the type of inheritance that He desires. From the scriptures we know that is a redeemed people. From the beginning the whole of  His plan has been to achieve His goal. Secondly, through His foreknowledge He has reached out, in Christ Jesus, and has established a chosen people. Ps. 33:16 

They are a people who are blessed of the Lord. He daily loads them with benefits, spiritual and natural. They confess His name, Jehovah, and have learned to trust in that precious name, LORD. Ps. 33:12 

As a sign and proof of having been called and chosen, the blood of the Lord Jesus Christ cleanses them from all iniquity and unrighteousness. His presence in our hearts removes the desire to live in sin. Himself, His Word, the leading of the Holy Spirit all direct toward a life that emulates the life of Christ and its purity. 

They become a people who are totally surrendered to His will. They are His prized possession. They are "zealous, eager to do His will." No hesitation. No need to stop and count the cost. His will is their will. They are His and His only. Titus 2:14


THE CALL OF THE LORD. 
His called is a blessed thing to have happen in our lives. What a privilege to know that we belong to One who is eternal and has imparted eternal life to us. Further more, He is preparing a people, out of the people, who are obedient to the Word. There is a standard established for us to follow in the scriptures; His call is not to continue in the type of life from which He called us and cleansed us, but to recognize that we have been called to holiness. 1 Thess. 4:7 

The will of the Lord for them is that they might be sanctified, separated from the works of the flesh. That is, the attitude and actions of the carnal man, by abstaining "from fornication," sexual immorality. 1 Thess. 4:3 

The vessel, the body, the life, is to be one of sanctification and honor, not manifesting "the lust of concupiscence," or the passionate lust of the depraved nature of man, like that practiced by the heathen, who do not know the Lord. 1 Thess. 4:5 

In the house of the Lord there are to be found a great variety of vessels or persons. Starting with the most valuable, they deteriorate from gold, to silver, to wood then to earth. From spiritual Christians to carnal Christians. There is a need for purging from a weak spiritual life and to walk in honor and sanctification which the Lord has prepared for His people. 

There is a mighty work of sanctification due to sweep though the church universal that will change the whole atmosphere from worldly to the highest form of spiritual life. 2 Tim. 2:20-21  
  
 
 
 
A PEOPLE FOR HIS NAME. 6

THE PEOPLE OF A DUAL CALLING. 
They are Royalty and a Priesthood at one and the same time. 1 Pet. 2:9 

They minister in a royal fashion to the Most High, the King of the ages. John, in the Revelation, recognized the dual status of the redeemed of the Lord. He has made us to be "kings and priests unto God." Rev. 1:6 

We minister to the Lord, now, and shall worship before him forever, world without end. Be assured that eternity will never be boring not tiresome. There is nothing greater than being lost in worship unto the Lord. Life, on this earth, has nothing to offer like those moments when time no longer exists as we enter into the secret place of His presence and become totaly involved in the glories of His presence. 

Before the final destruction of this world the Saints of the Lord will live and reign, with Him, on the earth for one thousand years. Rev. 5:10, 20:6   


THE PEOPLE OF A HOLY CALLING. 
The Lord always presents a challenge to us, and then provides a way whereby we may meet that challenge. As it is written, "Be ye holy, for I am holy." 1 Pet. 1:16  

This nation is called to be like their Lord and redeemer. Holy, sanctified and pure. It is indeed a high standard but not one beyond the reach of those who are seriously serving the Lord. Holiness is not something which can be ignored or shrugged off. It is like Amos said, "can two walk together except they be agreed?" Amos 3:3 

When we are out of step with the Lord we are no longer walking with Him. The spiritual person can only be a complete person when they have, by new birth, acquired the nature of the Lord.


THE JESUS STANDARD. 
Jesus established a standard of holiness when He urged His followers to be as perfect as their Father in heaven. Mt. 5:48 

Yet, sometimes even preachers say, we cannot be perfect. Did Jesus urge us to be something that we cannot be? Did He set an impossible goal? Hardly! He intended just exactly what He said. With Him all things are possible. In these last days He will have a church that is the exact desire and longing of His heart. Paul caught that vision and saw that church that reaches the measure of the stature of Christ. Eph. 4:13 

Then again he said that she would be without spot, blemish, wrinkle or any such thing. They are to be a people filled with all the fullness, even to overflowing, with the glory of the Lord. Eph. 5:27 

The Lord will not call His own with a calling that is unreachable. With Him, nothing is impossible. All He needs are willing hearts that love Him above everything else in this life and are determined to be precisely what He wants them to be.  




A PEOPLE FOR HIS NAME.  7

THE TRUE TEMPLE OF THE LORD. 
This Temple is different than any other that has ever existed. This is the eternal Temple of the Lord. When even the memory of all others will have perished, this living Temple will still exist. It is heaven's Temple. Paul identified it by saying, "The Temple of God is holy, which Temple ye are." 1 Cor. 3:17 

Jesus, though grossly misunderstood, declared His body was a Temple. A Temple that could not be destroyed. Crucify it, mangle it, kill it, bury it, it remained a Temple, the dwelling place of the living Lord. John 2:19 

The Lord is already in the process of building that which is everlasting which cannot be destroyed. His dwelling place is His Temple and He dwells in His Saints. 1 Cor. 3:16


BUILDING THE TEMPLE. 
The Lord has no interest in buildings of men, whether it be called a church, temple or synagogue. His building is founded on the Rock of Ages, the Lord Jesus Christ. There is only one possibility of a proper foundation and that has already been established to be Jesus Christ. 1 Cor. 3:11 

Why should we look for a rebuilt temple in Jerusalem when the Lord has identified the true Temple to be a spiritual Temple, where the building material is "lively stones." The house that is being built is a "spiritual house." Having a priesthood which offer spiritual sacrifices - the only kind which are acceptable to the Lord; offerings which are based on the Lord Jesus Christ. 1 Peter 2:5


THE CHIEF CORNER STONE LAID IN SION.  
The building will be no stronger than its foundation. The Father took the best as the stone upon which the whole Temple should rest. To that He added the Apostles and Prophets, those through whom the Lord has given us the word of the Lord, the Old and the New Testaments. Anything not founded upon the Rock, the Lord Jesus, the Word made flesh, will fail in the time of storm. Mt. 7:24-27 

(Incidentally, every element mentioned here by the Lord Jesus has been in great evidence in recent times. Rains, floods, winds have all, brought great destruction around the world. Is the Lord saying something? I believe so. Be sure of your foundation). The construction of the Lord is most definitely "fitly framed together." This is a building of perfect strength. It is closely knit together. Compacted, joined one to the other in a manner which defies separation. Anything built by the Lord is going to have the best of materials, of workmen and the absolute perfection of workmanship. Eph. 2:21




A PEOPLE FOR HIS NAME. 8

THE WORKS OF TRUTH. 
Grace and truth were brought to the world through the Lord Jesus. What the Law could not do, the Lord Jesus accomplished during His visit to earth. John 1:17 

This Jesus, the Word made flesh, is the fountain head of the grace and truth of the Almighty. He came in all the splendor and glory of His Father as the only begotten of the Father, and will remain so throughout the eternities. John 1:14 

The knowledge of grace and truth is a very positive portion of the Christian experience. It is the will of the Lord that His own know, and know very well, both the grace and truth which is a part of the nature of the Lord. It is not a theory, it is an experience.


HIS CHURCH FORMED FOR HIS PRAISE. 
Called to declare the praise due unto His name. In them, will be made manifest the divine "virtues and perfections (AMP)" of that everlasting personality which He desires to share with those who are His. 1 Pet. 2:9 

While the church will certainly proclaim His praise to all, there is still a deeper purpose that He has for her existence. In molding and bringing the church into being He has demonstrated His powers and abilities. The very fact of her existence and the fullness of the Divine nature that He is able to display through her will be a cause for praise unto the Lord. His last day, perfected church, which will become the Bride of Christ is proof of His wisdom and might, worked out in the hearts and lives of His people. Eph. 3:10


THE REAL ALL NATIONS CHURCH. 
Here we will find a people who have lost their earthly identification. They no longer identify with a certain race, religious organization, position in life or any of those things which tended to separate us one from another. There will be none there who are claiming to be Jew or Gentile. All are to be made one in Christ. Any who refuse to be formed to the mold for His church will find themselves on the outside. Gal. 3:28 

There is but one objective to be found in this glorious latter day church and that is to be like Christ. To bare His likeness in all spiritual conduct. Christ, being the heart throb, the strong desire, the aim, the goal for these who are to participate in His plan for the last days.  He must be All, and in all. The only one. He will not accept the half-hearted, lackadaisical attitude of the average church attendant. His Spirit and Love must pervade the whole atmosphere of their lives. His being, His nature will be resident within this glorious  Church, directing them in the pathway of the Lord.




A PEOPLE FOR HIS NAME.  9

THE PAST. 
They had been called Gentiles. Also called the uncircumcised by those who were "the circumcision," but a circumcision made by the hands of men. Eph. 2:11 - but contrasted with that which is conducted by the Spirit. 

An act that effects the heart, that is, the thoughts and attitudes of the human race. It is a life changing act of the Lord, performed by a spiritual procedure. Paul declared it to be a work so tremendous that those who experienced it were accounted to be Jews. A people who rather than receiving the praises of men, are now praised by the Lord for their decision and willingness to follow Him. Rom. 2:29

THE PROFIT OF CIRCUMCISION. 
An act that requires one to keep the Law in order to receive its benefits. To break the Law is to reverse the individual back to the status of the uncircumcised, placing them on the same level as the Gentiles. 

Conversely, if the uncircumcised keep the righteousness of the Law, it is accounted to them to be equal to circumcision. If they then keep the Law they will judge those to whom the Law was given. Rom. 2:25-27 

Paul was "an Hebrew of the Hebrews, touching the Law, a Pharisee." Phil. 3:5

"Touching the righteousness which is in the Law, blameless." Phil. 3:6 

He had all the credentials of race and religion, but had nothing until he came to Christ. A man who was in a position to rightly evaluate and determine who had the true spiritual status of a Jew.


THE ASSESMENT OF THE APOSTLE PAUL. 
A Jew is not a Jew by natural birth, that is, one outwardly. The individual may have had the opportunity to have researched his lineage back to Abraham, but unless he has been born of the Spirit, it is all in vain. 

A true Jew is one who inwardly is a Jew. To them, the Law is not recorded on tables of stone but on the fleshly tables of the heart. 2 Cor. 3:3 

It is a work of the Spirit producing the righteousness and holiness of the Law within the spirit of those who are new creatures in Christ. It is no longer the letter of the Law, but now The Spirit of the Law that brings forth the fulfillment of the Law. 

Now, the purpose of the Lord is to be found in a new creature. That person, in whom neither circumcision nor uncircumcision has any spiritual meaning whatsoever. Gal. 6:15  

Paul very bluntly said, "the children of the flesh are not the children of God, but the children of the promise are counted as the seed". Rom. 9:6 

It is not the old man, be he Jew or Gentile, but that NEW MAN, who is in Christ Jesus, that find themselves to be the heirs of the Lord.




A PEOPLE FOR HIS NAME.  10

A PERSONAL RELATIONSHIP WITH CHRIST. 
A nation born of blood, water, and Spirit. Natural birth is a witness and testimony of Spiritual birth. Just as one must be born into life in this world, so there must be a process of Spiritual birth. Jesus emphasized that unless a man is "born again" he cannot even see, nor understand that there is a kingdom of God. John 3:3 

It is impossible then for him to enter into what he cannot see or acknowledge. He must be born of water (natural birth) and be born of the Spirit, obviously spiritual birth. John 3:5 Natural birth limits one to life on this earth. Its destiny is death. Spiritual birth produces true life. Eternal life, life without end in the New Heaven and the New Earth, the first, or that which we occupy now will have passed away. Rev. 21:1


BORN OF BLOOD. 
The new birth is not achieved by the blood of the one in whose womb we were conceived. All that the mother can give is natural life. Spiritual life was purchased by the Lord Jesus at Calvary. How striking it is that when the soldier pierced the side of our Lord, blood and water flowed from His side. John 19:34 

The elements of cleansing and New Birth seen at the cross. The only access that humanity has to heaven and life eternal is through the blood of the Lord Jesus. Where once we were far off from the Lord and His kingdom, through His blood, we are now brought into a relationship with Him. Eph. 2:13 


THE BLOOD OF CHRIST IS EVIDENCE OF HIS LOVE. 
Christ died for the unlovely, the sinner. When our attitude is one of self righteousness we cannot come to Him for we feel that we have no need of Him. The Lord is repulsed by the sin and ungodliness of humanity; still He loved us long before anyone but the Lord knew that we would ever exist. Rom. 5:8 

Only by His blood can any man ever be made just and righteous. His blood is the blood of salvation, saving us from a devil's hell, allowing us to escape the horrible wrath - which in the beginning was reserved for the devil and the angels who fell with Him. Now, due to sin, unsaved, unrepentant humanity will also share in the judgments once reserved for the devil. It is indeed a shame but a reality. Rom. 5:9 

There is no need for any to perish when the blood atonement was made for all. Each individual will make their own choice of their eternal destination. Joy, real joy, is found in the heart of those who receive atonement through the blood of Jesus. Rom. 5:11      





        A PEOPLE FOR HIS NAME.  11


THE VERY BLOOD OF GOD. 
Human blood is derived from the Father. Therefore, the blood that flowed through the veins of the Lord Jesus had its origin in the seed (the Word) which was implanted in the womb of the virgin Mary and came from the Father. Blood is the source of animal and human life. The life of the flesh is in the blood. Lev. 17:11 

It is one of those things that is of the earth, earthy. It was given as the element whereby atonement for the soul could be made. The Old Testament sacrifices of blood, while meaningful, were all ineffective without the sacrifice of the Lord Jesus. They were substitutes reaching forward to the once for all offering of the blood of God on the tree. Heb. 10:10 

The blood of Christ not only is our redemption today, but was necessary for all of the Old Testament saints. They would never have received eternal life aside from the blood of Christ. Heb. 9:15


PURCHASED BY BLOOD. 
Christ our propitiation, our mercy seat. The only real place of pardon and liberation from our sins; He is the atonement. It is interesting to note the words, "the remission of sins past." Rom. 3:25 

It is obvious here that there was forgiveness for the Old Testament saints, sins past. It has the same theme that was previously noted. Also, our past sins, prior to our repentance are forgiven. 

Is it an injustice to the Word to suggest that sinful acts we may commit are no longer sin? Our sinning stops, or should stop, at the time of our repentance. It should become a thing of the past. 

One of the most poignant themes to be found in the Word of the Lord is that of the Bride of Christ. With His own blood He has purchased the church of God and brought her unto Himself. Acts 20:28 

As there is pollution in the world, so there is pollution in the church world. However, out of it all, the Lord will gather unto Himself a people who fit His requirements for their place in the Bride. Oh yes, He does a standard whereby every member of the body of Christ will be measured. She is to be glorious. Filled to the uttermost with the eternal beauty and glory of the Lord. She will be perfect.       




A PEOPLE FOR HIS NAME.  12

YOUR ARE PETER. 
Simon (hearing) Peter (a rock or stone.) Most definitely the name Simon fits him. Of the multitudes who heard Jesus, he not only heard but followed. He heard the high calling of the Lord, in Christ Jesus. At the invitation of the Lord, he and his brother, Andrew, immediately abandoned their nets to follow Jesus. Mt. 4:19  

Peter, Cephas, a stone, some have even declared it to mean but a pebble. Jesus emphasized the meaning of his name as a contrast between Peter and Himself. 

Even though some have mistakenly called Peter the foundation of the church, he is not. A church of which Peter is the foundation is on shaky ground. Any problem as to whom Jesus is referring is solved by simply accentuating the word "this." It is a definite indication that Jesus is the foundation stone. Mt. 16:19 

Jesus is that spiritual Rock. 1 Cor. 10:4 

Jesus is the only foundation. There is no possibility of there being another. 1 Cor. 3:11


MY CHURCH.
Jesus is "the head of the body, the church." Col. 1:18 

What a vital organ the head is to the body. The ability to see, to hear, to smell, to taste, to speak, to eat, are all located in the head. The head is the source of the body's coordination. Its ability to exercise all of the senses is unquestionable. Physical movement is dependent on the brain which is located in the head. The electrical impulses controlling the whole of the body come from the head or the brain. What a marvelous creation we are. 

Speaking of things spiritual, the whole of our spiritual motivation comes from the head, the Lord Jesus. He is the beginning. Aside from Him there is no beginning. The only hope of resurrection or "catching up" is found in the Lord Jesus. Life now and life eternal is in Christ alone.


THE CHURCH OF THE LIVING LORD. 
The church, also called the house of God. Because of its association with the Lord Jesus, the church must become the "pillar and ground of truth." 1 Tim. 3:15 

Jesus is the truth. The church must be constructed on a firm foundation, the ground of truth. We are exhorted to "buy the truth and sell it not." Prov. 23:23 

What is of more value than the truth which is found in the Word of the Lord? 

His church will thoroughly understand His Word and its Divine truths.

In the last day revival, there will be some positive changes from today's Theology. Men will learn to listen to the Spirit of the Lord as He instructs His leadership in the body. Truth is the pillar, the support, the strength of the Word to His church.    




A PEOPLE FOR HIS NAME.  13

THE CHURCH HIS BODY. 
Christ is the head, the leader, the full authority over the church. If the church is not Christ oriented and directed by Him, it is not His body. His church is not a building made up of the common materials used in erecting a religious edifice. His body is a living, spiritual life form. It is that which is the ultimate result of His ministry. The crowning jewel and objective of His life on earth. A body which functions according to the guidance of the Holy Spirit and the Word. His true church is the joy and delight of His life. Eph. 1:22-23


NEITHER, NOR. 
In the plan of the Lord, racism is put aside. Man may practice it, but not the Lord. There is no preferred race but that New Man, which is created in Christ Jesus. Paul, emphatically pointed out the fact that it is Christ who "is all, and in all." Outside of Him there is nothing. Col. 3:11 

The selected, those who are the favored, who are an example of holiness, are urged to be clothed with the garments of spirituality which are in Christ. This will result in a series of compassionate manifestations giving evidence that the nature and spirit of  Christ dwells within. Col. 3:12-13 

These lead to the bond of perfectness, which is that precious agape love. The ability to love as the Lord loves. This love is that which joins together the whole of the body of Christ. Col. 3:14 

This love, produces the faith which supplies the ability to function to the body of Christ. Gal. 5:6


NO LONGER A STRANGER AND A FOREIGNER. 
Now, in Christ Jesus, possessing full and proper citizenship. The country of our origin, our birth, has nothing to do with that which is spiritual, eternal and heavenly. We are inhabitants, neighbors, by faith, of that city which Abraham sought after. The city whose builder and make is God. The city of the redeemed. 

This produces a result that many fail to recognize as a legitimate doctrine of the Word. Those who are in Christ are of the "commonwealth of Israel." 

The true Israel of today is spiritual Israel, composed of Jews and Gentiles who are in Christ. The "covenants of promise" are theirs. They have the hope of eternal life in Jesus. They are no longer without an understanding of who the Lord is. They are children of the Most High. Eph. 2:12 

Now, being in Christ, they know Him as Lord and Savior. The blood of Christ has wrought a work of cleansing and purification in them whereby they are now accepted in the beloved. Eph. 2:13-14 

They are new creatures, living a new life. The old carnal nature has been changed. They are in the process of Divine maturity.        
 
O give thanks unto the Lord,for He is good and His mercy endureth forever. Ps. 106:1




A PEOPLE FOR HIS NAME.  14

CHILDREN OF ABRAHAM. 
Who are they? It was promised to Abraham, by God, that he would become the "father of many nations." Note nations is in the plural, showing that here would be more than one nation. History certainly proves that to be true. Gen 17:4 

In the scriptures there are two nations, in particular, which are shown to fit this category. More important than their natural roots are their spiritual roots. 

They are, the nation of the Law, and the nation of Faith. 

Incidentally, faith came first and continues to be the only way of pleasing the Lord. It was Abraham's faith which preceded both the Law and circumcision. His faith became righteousness to him. Circumcise was but the seal, the witness of that which had been imparted to him, by faith. 

The promises given to him were not of the Law but of Faith. The family of faith, the nation of faith, is the true nation of the Lord. Rom. 4:10-11 

The promise did not depend on the Law but its fulfillment would be accomplished, through faith. Rom. 4:13


THE WORKS OF THE LAW 
are noted by the Word of the Lord to be - wrath, judgment, condemnation; it does not cleans from sin. The Law exposes sin and demands that its adherents live a life of which none are capable. Rom. 4:15 

Three times in one verse, Paul emphasizes the truth that no man may be justified, made to be in right standing with the Lord, by the works of the Law. Justification is a work of faith in Christ Jesus. Gal. 2:16

Moreover, those who would seek justification by the works of the Law are under the curse of the Law. It demands the strictest of adherence to its tenets. "For cursed is everyone that continueth not in ALL things which are written in the book of the Law to do them." Gal. 3:10


JUSTIFICATION A WORK OF FAITH. 
What the Law could not do has been accomplished in the Lord Jesus Christ, and that by faith in Him. Rom. 4:15 

Christ is the end of the Law, for every believer. The Law has no more dominion over the. Now, by His nature which is resident in the believer, he will by the presence that spiritual nature of Christ, fulfill the Law. Rom. 10:4 

The weakness of the Law is apparent in those who were called upon to keep it. Therefore, the Father sent His Son, that righteousness might be found in those who believe in the Lord Jesus. A people who do not walk according to the flesh but by the Spirit; walking with the leadership of the one who works holiness in the life of those who believe on the Lord Jesus. Rom. 8:3-4




A PEOPLE FOR HIS NAME.  15

LAW VERSUS FAITH. 
A promise made to Abram. The blessing of the Lord to be upon the individual or the nation that blessed Abram. The curse pronounced against Abram would be returned upon the head of the one making the curse. Gen. 12:3 

The Lord made covenant with Abram [high father]. Furthermore He changed his name to Abraham [father of a multitude] by taking the eighth letter of the Hebrew alphabet and inserting it into his name, making his name to be Abraham. In that manner the Lord interjected His name, Jehovah or JHVH into the name of Abraham. Gen. 17:5 

The same method was used in changing the name of Sarai, [she that strives] to Sarah [princess]. Gen. 17:15  

The covenant of the Lord involved him in being the father of many nations. Sarah was to bear him a son who would be the progenitor not only of nations (gowy, or the Gentile nations, but also, 'Am, or the people of the promise.) A fact that is well evident today. Kings also were to be born to the descendents of Sarah. Gen. 17:16


A TOTALLY NEW RACE, IN CHRIST JESUS. 
The scriptures give clear evidence that the race blest of the Lord is to be a new race. That which bears weight with the Lord is a "new creature." Gal. 6:15 

That new creature, after the flesh, originates from every tongue, tribe and nation on the face of the earth. While we are not physically born into the family of the Lord, we are spiritually adopted. The new man, the new creature, the new birth, are the result of a precious spiritual experience whereby we are received into that great eternal family. Predestination is to adoption. The spiritual process used of the Lord to bring people into His great family. Adoption is "by Jesus Christ," and by Him alone. 

Incidentally, predestination is not "pick and choose." It is not a process where one is taken or chosen to the rejection of another. Eph. 1:5 

If predestination were reckoned according to race then every Jew would automatically have been saved under the ministry of the Lord Jesus. His greatest source of opposition came from them, and in particular from their religious leaders. It is very obvious that all come to the Lord in one way, that is through the Lord Jesus. Those under the Law must come after the same fashion. Then and only then are they "adopted" into the family of the Lord. Gentile and Jew are both adopted by  virtue of the new birth. Gal. 4:5 

Adoption is a spiritual work wrought in the spirit of humanity by the working of the Spirit of the Lord. Rom. 8:15   





A PEOPLE FOR HIS NAME. 16

IF YOU ARE HIS POSSESSION. 
Then you are Abraham's seed. 

Belonging to Christ has immense benefits. As the seed, the progeny of Abraham, every promise given to him is in effect. Natural birth has absolutely no standing with the Lord in the fulfillment of the spiritual promises made to Abraham. Because of unbelief, the natural people are excluded from the promises until they become new creatures in Christ. The Jew and Gentile are blended into one family, in Christ. Abraham is the father of all who walk by faith. Those who believe on the Lord Jesus Christ. Rom. 4:16


TO THE JEW FIRST. 
But not only to the Jew, the Gentiles must also be included in the hearing of the Word. To them who believe, it becomes the power of God which works salvation. Rom. 1:16 

Truly, the message first went to the Jew in Jerusalem and in their synagogues scattered abroad, then we find an Apostolic ministry reaching out to the Gentiles. 

As surely as the message was first declared to the Jew, the judgment of the Lord was also first upon them, then on the Gentiles, because of their evil doings. Rom. 2:9 

It is very apparent that the Lord treats all alike, both Jew and Gentile. The same is true when it comes to the rewards of those serving the Lord. Without respect of persons, glory, honor and peace is imparted to them who seek the works of the Lord as a pattern of their life. Rom. 2:10-11


DOERS OF THE LAW. 
The Law does not bring salvation. The Law produces judgment. Sinners whether following the Law or outside of the Law are all judged by the Law. The Law is a code of righteousness established by the Lord. Christ fulfilled every code of righteousness which can be found in the Law. Therefore He fulfilled the Law for us. The Law came to a screeching halt when He became the Lamb of God. Rom. 10:4 

The righteous demands of the Law are now a way of life for those who are in Christ Jesus, be they Jew or Gentile. The righteousness of the Law is now enacted in the daily life of all who are motivated by the Holy Spirit. As natural as walking is to the natural man, so, walking in the Spirit must become to the Spiritual person. Having been born of the Spirit we receive the nature of the Spirit and if we heed to Him He will direct out paths in the way of righteousness. Rom. 8:4 

Living a righteous life is not a struggle for those who will commit their lives fully and totally to the Lord. Be filled with the true Spirit of the Lord.       





A PEOPLE FOR HIS NAME. 17

THE BLESSING OF ABRAHAM. 
Destined to be shared with all the peoples of the earth. 

The Gentiles, in particular, singled out as those who may receive the gift of life everlasting as contained in the promises; the source of their acceptance is none other than the Lord Jesus. Through Him the promises of Abraham are bestowed on the Gentiles. The signs and seal of their acceptance is the baptism of the Holy Spirit which they were to receive through their faith in Christ. Gal. 3:14 

Joel prophesied that in the "last days" the Lord would pour to out His Spirit upon "ALL FLESH." That embraces every tongue, tribe and nation upon the face of the earth. No wonder that the Pentecostal experience has become a world wide phenomenon. Joel 2:28 

It is the visitation of the Lord to gather in the harvest of the earth, prior to His return. From the beginning of the church age the Spirit baptism, with its sign of speaking with tongues, has been an experience granted to the Gentiles. While Peter was preaching in the house of Cornelius, spontaneously, suddenly the Spirit came upon the Gentiles and they were filled with the same Spirit that was evident on the day of Pentecost in Jerusalem. Acts 10:44-45


CHILDREN AND HEIRS OF GOD. 
The importance of being filled with the Spirit cannot be over emphasized. It is through Him that we learn of Jesus Christ and His will for our lives. He is our supply of power. He makes us to know that we are children of the Most High and therefore heirs of God. Gal. 4:6-7 

IN the Lord's work of salvation He makes absolutely no difference between Jew and Gentile. His mercy and saving grace is richly granted to all who come to Christ. Rom. 10:12-13 

It is the Spirit who verifies the fact of our salvation and that we are the children of the Lord. So, if we are children, then we have the right to inherit the riches of His Glory. We are accounted as being joint heirs with Jesus Christ. Sharing and sharing alike in everything that He possesses. The beauty of it is that which we inherit is not of this earth but is of that to come and is eternal. Rom. 8:16-17 

Whoops, look what Paul inserted there, "if we suffer with Him." Who wants to suffer or should it be said, who wants to pay the price? 

Paul knew what it was to suffer for the name of the Lord Jesus. He said, " I am crucified with Christ." Gal. 2:20 

True Christianity is not a life of easy and natural comfort. There are times of testing and trials where we feel the emotions Christ felt as He went to the cross. They are not pleasant times - but afterward we recognize that a beautiful work has been accomplished in us. Heb. 12:11          



A PEOPLE FOR HIS NAME.  18

WHEN WE ARE HIS. 
Belonging to Christ assures one that we are the seed of Abraham. Furthermore, when we are his seed, we are also made to be heirs, not only of Abraham, but of the Lord's estate. Those who are "in Christ" have inherited the greatest inheritance possible. We may share of it in this life and in the life to come. It is an everlasting inheritance that will never cease pouring out the abundance of its wealth. Gal. 3:19 

Paul made it very plain that those who profess faith in the Lord Jesus are the seed of Abraham. That excludes the natural and emphasizes the spiritual. Gal. 3:7 

Abraham's faith was not of the Law nor of circumcision, but of faith. He received the promises while walking the faith walk and not yet circumcised. Rom. 4:12 

The promise is amplified and concluded by the grace of our Lord Jesus which becomes an assurance to both those of the Law and those of faith. There is only one way for all and that is through the Lord Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith. Rom. 4:16    


THE LAW DOES NOT CONTAIN THE PROMISE OF INHERITANCE.
The Law had its limitations, one of them being that the promises given to Abraham could not be accomplished through the Law. The fulfillment depends entirely on the "righteousness that comes by faith". Rom. 4:13 

For, IF, those who live by the Law are heirs, which obviously they are not, faith looses it value, rendering the promise worthless. Rom. 4:14 

In how many ways and how many times must the Lord show us that the Law does not produce an inheritance in the Lord? All, Jew and Gentile, must travel the same road to obtain any inheritance in the Lord. Even a reinstated Law and temple worship with Levitical sacrifices can not bring any race or individual to a saving knowledge. 

It is past. The Law is dead. It has been rendered ineffective. Christians telling Jews that they can be saved by the Law and its order of worship are doing an injustice to them. The Law could not - nor will it ever - bring salvation to any. Rom. 8:3


THE MYSTERY OF THE GENTILES. 
A rejected people now the recipients of the grace of the Lord Jesus and are included in His will, as heirs. The Lord has brought them both together, and made them to be one new nation, one body of believers. A people embracing the promises of the Almighty. They share equally in all the benefits and blessings of an eternal life and kingdom. All and only those who believe in Christ will be saved. Eph. 3:6 



A PEOPLE FOR HIS NAME.  19

THE CALL OF PAUL TO THE GENTILES. 
Paul was so committed to ministering to the Gentiles that he considered himself a prisoner of Christ. Feeling that he was duty bound, captivated for the explicit purpose of preaching to them the gospel of the grace of the Lord. Eph. 3:1-2 

The thought of his deep, whole-hearted, surrender to the will of the Lord is expressed elsewhere. He declared himself to be "an ambassador in bonds," or one who is in fetters or chains. In other words, if he was to serve Christ, it must be in the will of Christ and not his own desires. 

The compulsion of the call that was upon him was contrary to all of his religious upbringing and education. It showed the strong feeling and burden of winning souls to Christ which was upon him. We know of course, that Paul was imprisoned for the gospel, but far more meaningful was his determination to follow the call of the Spirit,
which, for him, was to fulfill one of the mysteries of Christ. That mystery was, that the gospel be preached to the Gentiles. Col. 4:3 

A divine call that came to him by revelation. The unveiling of the necessity to go to the Gentiles with the message of Christ. Eph. 3:3


A REVELATION TO THE APOSTLES AND PROPHETS. 
An enlightenment of the Spirit that had not been made known to past generations. The message of the mystery is to be found in the Old Testament, for instance Isaiah. He spoke of the Gentiles seeking after the root of Jesse, the Lord Jesus. 

This is a Messianic prophecy. The ensign, not the cross, but the crucified, resurrected, glorified Christ. An attraction to the gentiles bringing a rest to them that is only found in the Lord Jesus. Isa. 11:10 

It was there all the time, but because there was no Spirit of revelation, they could not see what the Word said. No doubt racial and religious bigotry played a part in their refusal to hear what the Word said concerning the matter. 

Jesus came as the light of the world, a light not to be confined to one nation. A light that would lighten the whole of humanity with the joy and gladness of salvation. The Lord Jesus was also to be a restorer of the tribes of Israel, a people amalgamated into one by the gospel of Christ. The Israel of the Lord is no longer after the flesh but after the spirit. Isa. 49:6 

It was not sufficient for the Messiah to be just a light, but He introduced a New Covenant. The covenant of redemption alone by the blood of the Lord Jesus Christ. Isa. 42:6 

There is but one door, that is Jesus. John 10:9 

There is but one way, one truth, one source of life eternal, that is Jesus. 

No man can come to the Father but by Jesus. John 14:6 

There is no other name of salvation. Acts 4:12 

For Jew or Gentile there is but one and that is Jesus.




A PEOPLE FOR HIS NAME. 20

A PEOPLE WHO WERE NOT A PEOPLE, BUT NOW ARE. 
Not only has He brought them into existence but He has taken that which was unlovely and has tremendously beautified it. There is not greater privilege in this life than to be a member of the body of Christ. Not only will they be His people but they are to be His beloved. A group, with a close and intimate relationship. Revealed in the scriptures as that of a husband and wife. This relationship will produce the romance of the ages. A love story which will continue throughout eternity. They are the true living children of the living God. Rom. 9:25-26


WE ARE MEMBERS. 
As closely affiliated as any member of ones body, so are His people joined to Him. One, united perfectly, blended together, moving and motivated in absolute harmony. Eph. 5:30 

If I am dreaming, don't awake me, I love the hope the Word gives in regard to a perfect church. The Lord said, "Write the vision and make it plain upon tablets, that he may run that readeth it. Hab. 2:2 

It is now written on the fleshly tables of our hearts and we herald it loudly and abroad.


AN APPONTED TIME. 
The Lord has established a definite time schedule. All that He does fits into the plan that was established from eternity past. There is a prearranged moment when the vision will be fully accomplished. It shall take place and nothing will deter its fulfillment. Hab. 2:3 

The Lord is not making up His plan as we go along, nor is he waiting for the right circumstances to fall into place. 

In order for us to become one, with Him, there must first be a joining of the members of His body where they become one. Rom. 12:6 

This is not a coming together of organizations, but is an amalgamation formed and accomplished by the Holy Spirit. The head, Christ, ministers to the entire body. When He is recognized as the source of leadership, then the body in its entirety will receive identical directions and commands. The nourishment of the Word and the Spirit are administered to all in the same manner and with the same understanding. 

Thus, there is equal spiritual growth throughout the entire body of Christ. The body grows in perfect spiritual and natural health into that which is the desire and grand ultimate purpose of the Lord. Col. 2:19 

What is impossible with men is possible with the Lord. He is about to do a mighty work in His church in the very midst of a troubled world. Jesus, the light of the world, is shinning brightly in the midst of great darkness.




A PEOPLE FOR HIS NAME. 21

THE FUNCTION OF THE FIVE-FOLD MINISTRY. 
Any title, derived from any office of the ministry, is futile unless it produces the results associated with that particular calling. Their work and responsibility is great and has been predetermined by the Word of the Lord. For instance, "the perfecting of the saints." Eph. 4:12 

Leadership, called and ordained by the Lord Jesus, will be held accountable for the fulfillment of their office in a proper and Godly manner. Shepherds set the example. They direct the sheep to the best of pastures. In the case of the church, they will guide them into "all truth," for He is the Spirit of TRUTH. John 16:13 

He will come, as Jesus came, speaking the things which the Father speaks. John 14:10 

The example has been established and will most definitely be followed by those who will be in leadership in the last day church. There will be no doctrinal disputes, for all will hear from one source.


A GENTLE WARNING. 
There is a measure of responsibility which must be followed. Heed, proper attention, must be given to the personal life of the one gifted with a ministry. That is accompanied by what must be a feeling of deep conscientiousness of the high calling of the Lord to properly guide the flock. 

Neither the gift of the Spirit nor the gifts of the Spirit are awarded to be used as spiritual playthings. They are authority, power, leadership gifts, which must be exercised for Divine purposes only. To accept the office of an overseer, or bishop, is to acknowledge that we are willing to direct our spiritual energies toward the perfecting of the church. 

A people, so precious in His sight that Jesus was willing to separate Himself from heaven for their redemption. She is His purchased one, and that at great price. Acts 20:28


PERFECT SAINTS. 
The purpose for the call and anointing of the five-fold ministry. The Lord does not commit spurious deeds. His every act has a goal. These ministries are established to complete the work of the Lord in His people, directing them to a status where the hearers become indeed, people of God, or people who are like God in their spirit. 

A building project completed, dedicated and fully occupied. Thoroughly furnished, equipped, and in active use. In other words, functioning in a proper manner. Manifesting the glory of the Lord to an ungodly world. Every good work, every work of righteousness and purity exercised by her adherents. All works which are good are accomplished by her and in her, by the Spirit. 2 Tim. 3:17 




A PEOPLE FOR HIS NAME. 22

TO WHOM DO THEY BELONG? 
The people of the Lord are not their own. They have been purchased. The price, the precious blood of the Lord Jesus. 

The beauty of such a purchase is that the object was bought with the purpose of granting it its freedom. Sin is slavery. It captures the heart and mind, and by lust forces the individual to continue to crave a life of constant, ever increasing sin. 

The redeemed are privileged to magnify and glorify the Lord in both body and spirit, that which now is the possession of the Lord. 

Therefore, we are called upon to be a person, who by their way of life, bring glory to the Lord in body and spirit. Because we belong to the Lord. 1 Cor. 6:20


YOUR BODY, THE TEMPLE. 
The dwelling place of the Spirit of the Lord. A situation which should be common everyday knowledge for every child of the Lord. Ideally, we are called upon to live a life in the Spirit of the Lord, to the maximum. 

In not doing so, we are cheating ourselves of the very best that the Lord has to offer to His church. As members of the body of Christ, the privileges extended to us are limitless. Consider the statement of John when he was speaking of Christ, said, "as HE IS, so are WE in this world." 1 John 4:17 

We well know where He is, and who He is. So, as members of His body, we must be seated with Him in heavenly places. The promise of the Word is that He HAS raised us up together, and is causing us to sit with Him, in heavenly places - or an atmosphere of His presence while still on this earth. Eph. 2:6 

He has, and does, abundantly bless us with ALL spiritual blessing which originate from on high. Eph. 1:3


CATCH A VISION. 
The Lord whom we serve is limited only by our unbelief. 

When our spiritual eyes are opened, and we come to a complete knowledge of what He wants to accomplish in His church, NOW, we WILL see the greatest manifestation of the immeasurable power bestowed upon His saints. Eph. 1:18 

The "exceeding greatness of His power" is already directed toward us. Eph. 1:19 

It was present in the Apostolic ministry of the early church, and has never been withdrawn from His people; Jesus Christ, the same, yesterday, today and forever. 

He does not change from generation to generation. The Lord filled the Tabernacle in the wilderness with His glory. The Temple of Solomon also knew the manifestation of His glory. 

Now, we come to a living Temple, a people chosen for His namesake. Will He do any less in them? They are the climax, the crown glory of His redemptive work. He will glorify her.




A PEOPLE FOR HIS NAME.  23

WHO ARE THE SERVANTS OF THE LORD. 
Take for instance, Paul the Apostle; he knew what it was to magnify his office. There were occasions when the Apostle usurped his authority and spoke as one having the responsibility of leadership. Proclaiming himself to be the Apostle to the Gentiles. Rom. 11:13 

On the other hand, he presented himself as "the servant of Jesus Christ." Rom. 1:1, Titus 1:1 

He stated that both he and Timothy were servants of Jesus Christ. Phil. 1:1 

The introduction of Peter's second letter begins with the same words. 2 Pet. 1:1 

These were not cases of false humility, but a showing of the commitment which they had made unto the Lord. It lets us know the attitude of their hearts, and the meekness of that spiritual man dwelling within them. 

Jesus, the great example, set the example, and took the form of a servant. Phil. 2:7 

May all in authority take a lesson from the example of Jesus.


THE LOVE SLAVE. 
The Hebrews, because of indebtedness, would sell themselves - and sometimes their entire family - into servitude. When they became "love slaves", it was for life. 

They were debtors, who exemplify our status as sinners coming to Christ. He paid our debt for us. Slaves were to be freed after six years of servitude. The seventh year, the sabbatical year, they were to enjoy freedom and liberty from slavery. 

A type of the six thousand years from Adam to the second coming of Christ; a time in which man is sold into slavery. The seventh year represents that glorious millennium and reign of Christ on this earth. Lev. 25:40 

However if the year of Jubilee came at anytime during the six years, their time of service was to end. It was the year of Jubilee and freedom was to reign in the land.

If at the time of their dismissal the servant had decided that his love for the family whom he served was so great that he desired to stay, they would then become a "love slave." They refused to leave the house of their master, they had come to love the family as their own. 

There is a far closer bond between Christians than with their unsaved relatives. Then who would ever want to leave the house of the Lord? The servant was led to the door, and his ear was pierced with an awl. The organ of hearing pinned to the door and a perpetual sign of his love left as a mark in the ear. 

We know Jesus as the door. This person was a symbol of complete servitude, serving with love. Deut. 15:17 Jesus is looking for "love slaves." Those who serve Him out of a heart overflowing with love for Him.   



A PEOPLE FOR HIS NAME.  24

A HOLY LORD REQUIRES  HOLINESS. 
Holiness is a Divine attribute. It expresses the nature and character of the Lord. "For the LORD our God is holy." Ps. 99:9 

He has established a standard of holiness with the expectation that His very own follow His example. "Be ye holy, for I am holy." Lev. 11:44 

A call and instruction as to the goal of the Lord for His people. He has brought us unto Himself for the explicit intention of  developing a people of holiness. 1 Thess. 4:7 

The ability to achieve His desire in us, lies within ourselves. WE are to use the same zeal that was expended in the pursuit of sinful pleasures into an eagerness to seek for the holiness of the Lord. Rom. 6:19 

The new creature has been brought into being that he might exemplify the true holiness of the Father in heaven. If there are not works of holiness being developed in the new creature, then he is not new, but still the same old sinful self. Eph. 4:24 

When one is born of the Spirit, and filled with the Spirit, they become true sons of the Lord, having received the Spirit of holiness. Holiness is a vital element in the body of Christ. Rom. 1:4 

The resolution of the Lord will be fully accomplished and we may rest assured that the bride of Christ will meet, all, the full measure, of His holy standard. We have been granted the privilege of partaking of "His Holiness". Heb. 12:10 

How serious is the Lord concerning holiness? He has made it the prime requirement if one is to see the Lord, that is to make their home in heaven or to be the bride of Christ. Heb. 12:14


THE TEMPLE IS HOLY. 
The reference is to the church which is to be the temple of the Lord. A work that is accomplished by the Spirit of holiness which we have received of the Lord. 1 Cor. 3:17 

The only temple that the Lord will acknowledge is that built of the lively stones, His body. He has a great longing and desire to dwell within the holy, cleansed, spirit nature of His redeemed. They are to be His people. 2 Cor. 6:16 

Somewhere, within that which is called the church today, the Lord is building a "holy temple" for Himself. He sees it as only He can. It is growing in spiritual strength and power and will one day become evident to all. In the make up of the modern day church and its "mixed multitude" there is that which will emerge as the true wheat. That which He has brought forth for His own praise and glory. Eph. 2:21 

"What is the chaff to the wheat". It is vital in the formative stages of the wheat until it reaches maturity. There is then a threshing which takes place, followed by a separation between wheat and chaff. The chaff is blown away by the wind, while the wheat is treasured and gathered. Not all in the church today will be in the bride.       




A PEOPLE FOR HIS NAME.  25

THERE ARE DIVINE REQUIREMENTS. 
The first is foundational. Without having been born of the Spirit, there is no hope for any individual to ever become a part of the body of Christ. Jesus made it very plain that EXCEPT, or unless, a man be born again he cannot even see, or understand, that there is a kingdom of God. John 3:3 

Jesus then expanded on this necessity by stating, "except a man be born of water and Spirit, he cannot ENTER the kingdom of God. John 3:5 

Peter added his bit by identifying the seed as being the "incorruptible seed" - the Word of the Lord. That life-giving force which when associated with the spirit of man, changes his whole nature. 1 Peter 1:23 

The new birth produces a spiritual person whose desires are now for the Lord, and who is now living a spiritual life, the life of Christ.


BY WATER. 
Water is a vital part of our natural life. We are carried in, and born naturally, of water. We may go without food for a period of time but not without water. Water is vital to natural life. Water is symbolic of the Spirit in the Word of the Lord. 

Water baptism is likewise a requirement for membership in the bride of Christ. Jesus, Himself, established the example by being baptized of John the Baptist. He proclaimed it as an act of righteousness. Most certainly it was also an act of obedience. Mt. 3:15 

Water baptism led to Spirit baptism for the Lord Jesus. The heavens were opened, and the Spirit, [not a dove], came upon Him. Mt. 3:16 

In the "great commission" Jesus made baptism an imperative to salvation. Baptism, of itself, will not save, the individual must first have been born of the Spirit, in order for water baptism to have any spiritual results. Mt. 16:16


REMISSION OF  SINS. 
Peter's message of the day of Pentecost follows the example given us in the Word. 

Repent. 

Without repentance, no person can possible be born again. 

The confession of our sin, to the Lord, is one of the greatest experiences in life. It is life altering. It brings freedom from condemnation, a relief from the load and burden of sin, that is upon the inhabitants of the whole world. 

His second command to them was that they be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ. Acts 2:38 

Its purpose was that they receive the remission of their sin. Water baptism, when properly administered, has a purifying effect on the one baptized. Ananias, when ministering to Saul of Tarsus urged him to be baptized to "wash away thy sins". 

Very definitely, water baptism has a profound consequence in the process of salvation. Acts 22:16 




A PEOPLE FOR HIS NAME.  26

THE WASHING OF WATER. 
Baptism may, of itself, be a spurious act - if it is not done with a spiritual goal in view. Every part of the process of becoming a part of the bride of Christ stipulates a serious spiritual accomplishment. 

The old testament priest, ministering in the tabernacle, must wash at the brazen laver before entering the tabernacle. 

Failure to do so, brought the sentence of death. The Lord requires obedience. Ex. 30:20-21 

If the type had such strength, will the fulfillment be any less strong? Washing was vital for them, and it is also very necessary for the true Christian. Jesus said, it is an act of completing all righteousness. Mt. 3:15 

Be it in a muddy steam where the water looks like chocolate or black coffee, there is a spiritual cleansing that will take place. The waters of baptism are waters of purification for the old man, the old flesh life. Heb. 10:22 

Noah and his family were "saved by water", likewise baptism "doth also now save us". 1 Pet. 3:20-21 

That is, the answer of a clean conscience before the Lord. It alone will not save us, but is a very, very, necessary part of our spiritual growth. The pattern has been established in the Word and we must follow it to reap all of its benefits.


BAPTISM INTO CHRIST. 
These words we find in Paul's dissertation to the Romans. It portrays beautifully the purpose of water baptism. Baptism, "into Jesus Christ" is his theme. Rom. 6:3 

We place an article into a container, be it a suitcase or cupboard where it is enclosed and protected. It retains its individuality while at the same time it has become a part of its container. So, we enter into Christ Jesus. To the Galatians Paul wrote that those baptized have "put on Christ." Gal. 3:27 

We are then surrounded, clothed, with Christ. He becomes our shield and protector. This is in answer to the prayer of the Lord Jesus, that there might be that perfect and glorious affiliation with all that is God like. John 17:21-22 

There is no place made for the works of the flesh when this perfect unity is in operation within the body of Christ. Rom. 13:14 

It is a case of putting on the new man. Human nature is to like new things. All things are constantly new in the Lord Jesus. No day goes by but what He renews His mercy and His grace in us. The new person is in the procedure of achieving His righteousness and the true holiness that is His very nature. Eph. 4:4 

We do not attain the goal overnight, but we press on, knowing that there is that place in the Lord Jesus where we become, exactly, all that He is. We will ultimately bear His image and likeness. Col. 3:10     




A PEOPLE FOR HIS NAME.  27

BAPTIZED INTO HIS DEATH. 
We think of, and speak of, His life being manifest in us, and it is. However, there is another experience that awaits those who follow Christ. That is the privilege of entering His death. A place where we die to the sinful rudiments of this world. Water baptism takes us through the death, burial, resurrection on in to the fullness of that new life that is to be found in Christ. Rom. 6:3 

In water baptism we are buried with Christ. The old man, the carnal nature, may be discarded in the grave of water. Its purpose is the destruction of all that relates to the former life and keeps us from the completeness of His blessings. New wine is not stored in old goat skins. The Lord makes available every spiritual work to eliminate the works of the flesh in His people. We are thereby baptized for the dead, that is, Christ, that we might know the power of his resurrection. 1 Cor. 15:29


RAISED UP TOGETHER WITH HIM. 
When we have entered into His death and have died to the world and self, we are not left in death. We are raised in the power of His resurrection. The greater and more fully the death, the greater and more majestic the revelation of the resurrection life is seen in the believer. The bride will have the same experience as Paul, when he stated that he was crucified with Christ. That indicates a complete separation and dying out to the sinful man. Gal. 2:20 

The new man becomes the dominant feature in the person's life, and they begin to live the Christ life. Really now, is it not our desire to be more fully empowered with power for on high? That glory and power is for those who have been raised to fullness of life in the Son. 

In order to be raised, one must first die. Rom. 6:4


PLANTED TOGETHER. 
All parties receiving equal death to self and resurrection unto that blessed new life found in Christ. The Apostle is not talking about the sweet bye and bye, but the now. We are called upon to come to the exceeding greatness of the life of resurrection. Living in the Spirit with all the capabilities and faculties of the Spirit present with in us. We are to be like Him in resurrection, but only when we have been buried with Him. Rom. 6:5 

The man of the past is to be crucified with Jesus. Brought to a position in the Lord where the flesh is entirely in subjection to the Spirit. Rom. 6:6 

Physical death brings a change to the human body. Therefore it can no more sin. When we are spiritually dead to the world we will see the greatness of the Lord manifest in His church. "He that is dead is freed from sin." Rom. 6:7 



A PEOPLE FOR HIS NAME.  28

DO WE KNOW THIS? 
Our old man, our past life, with all of its wickedness is to be crucified with Christ. We have a lack of spiritual fruit in the church today because of the mixture of the old and the new. The old man is to be crucified, buried and resurrected as a new man, in the watery grave of baptism. 

Here is the victory of the Christian. When the old man has been put to death, he may no longer act as he once did when in sin. There is absolutely no response from the deceased to the things of this life. 

Sin has lost whatever appeal it had to them. Until we have reached this blessed place in Christ we will struggle with sin. When we are delivered, we live in victory over all the unrighteousness of the past. Rom. 6:5 

Here is perfect truth. "He that is dead is freed from sin". Rom. 6:6 

The thought of all this may be repulsive, but only to the flesh. The spiritual man will rejoice in an action which will bring complete victory over the flesh, the old, carnal man.


LIVING WITH HIM. 
When we have been crucified with Christ, we may anticipate the new life to be predominate in us. Being crucified with Christ does not mean that we do bodily harm, mutilate or even kill ourselves. 

Paul made it very plain that while he had been crucified with Christ, he continued to live the life of a human being. But there was a great difference. The life that he lived afterward was the life of Christ, expressing itself in him. Gal. 2:20 

It was not just a one time experience with him but a life that was lived, ever mindful of the dying of the Lord Jesus that was manifest in him. His goal being that the "life also of Jesus might be made manifest in our body". 1 Cor. 4:10 

When the life of Jesus is dwelling within, all that Jesus is, is present in that person. Then the promise of "greater things" will come to pass. John 14:12 When we pay the price we reap the benefits.


FOR JESUS’ SAKE. 
To the glory and honor of His great and wonderful name, He will have a people who enter the richness of what it really means to live for Christ. Paul not only faced spiritual consequences of great and dire proportions, he also faced physical situations that led even to death. 

All for the manifestation of the life of Jesus in mortal flesh. This is not presenting casual encounters but events of great significance to his life, and the life of Christ shining forth from him. Paul is a prototype of the last day Christian. 2 Cor. 4:11 

Rest assured the Lord will have a people who are like Him in every aspect.



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CHECK OUT PAUL’S SUFFERINGS FOR CHRIST. 2 Cor. 11:23-27
He compiled a list that is staggering. His sufferings were indeed ‘beyond measure.’ Most would find it difficult to give testimony of even one of the items that are on this list, let alone such a story of persecutions suffered for Christ. 

In them all, the Lord provided a way of deliverance or immediate recovery from injuries suffered. This gives evidence to the life of Christ that was working in him. Take for instance, the recorded witness of one of the times when he was stoned. The stones used were not pebbles but stones as large as they could lift, smashing and mutilating his body. 

Then, unceremoniously dragging his corpse through the streets of the city to the outskirts where they abandoned it. While his disciples watched, he arose, went back into the city and departed the next day. Acts 14:19-20 

The life of Christ was so powerfully resident within him that in spite of the stoning and its damage, he was immediately healed and went about his business. With the Lord all things are possible.


THE RESURRECTED CHRIST.  
Having passed through death and the grave, Christ can die no more. Death has no power over Him. Rom. 6:9 

In dying, he died to deliver mankind from all that is sin. In resurrection life, He lives unto God. V. 10 

In living He is the only intercessor between the Lord and man. Those who come to God through the Lord Jesus are royally and gloriously saved unto eternal life. Heb. 7:25 

After the same fashion reckon yourself dead to sin but living in the Lord Jesus. Every necessary element has been provided. The Lord will work in us those mighty works of redemption that we might bear His image. Rom. 6:11 

We no longer should be dominated by sin. If we sin every day in word, thought or deed, then we need to go back and work our first works again.


SIN SHALL NOT REIGN. 
The provision of the Lord is for a sinless People. Not only in His heavenly kingdom to come, but here and now. 

Jesus lived without sin, and we have been called to emulate His life in this world. Do not allow sin to have control while yet in the mortal body. Do not yield to unrighteousness. Put up a fight. Show some resistance, in Christ. Sin shall not dominate us. No child of the Lord should be in submission to the beggarly elements of the flesh and sin. Rom. 6:11-14 

We are to live the life of the Lord Jesus, beginning from the day of our salvation until death or translation. We are no longer the servants of sin but are the Lord’s free people.   




A PEOPLE FOR HIS NAME.  30

WHAT IS IN A NAME? 
The blessing of the Lord is in His name. He declared that those upon who His name was evoked would be a people blessed of Him. Numbers 6:27 

It is called Solomon’s temple, but in all reality he was to build a house for the name of the Lord. In doing so the Lord would reveal Himself mightily in his life and establish his kingdom. Unfortunately Solomon went astray. 1 Kings 5:5 

At the time of the transition from tabernacle to temple and the bringing up of the Ark of the Covenant, Solomon prayed that, "all the people of the earth may know thy name." Likewise he said, "this house which I have builded, is called by thy name." To know His name is to be able to identify who He is and also, with Him. How can we call upon Him if we do not know His name? It is important to know the name of the God whom we serve. 1 Kings 8:43 

Furthermore the Lord chose the city of Jerusalem to bestow His name there. 1 Kings 11:36   


THE NAME OF THE WHOLE FAMILY. 
It makes no difference whether they are in heaven or on earth, His name is a name which is to be named on the whole family. That name is the blessed name of the Lord Jesus Christ. Eph. 3:14-15 

The pattern of a precious life, a life blessed of the Lord, is to incorporate His name in every action which we undertake. That involves the natural, secular, everyday life as well as our spiritual pursuits. Where His name is invoked it means that the action taken is according to His standards and worth of His blessing. His presence and His name are inseparable. The request is to be presented along with the giving of thanks. Col. 3:17 

Healings, signs, wonders, miracles, are wrought through the authority of His name. He has privileged us, and given us the authority to act in His place and in His name. Acts 4:30  


THE ONLY SOURCE OF POWER. 
In word or deed "Do all in the name of the Lord Jesus." Col. 3:17 

His name is the most powerful in time and the universe. The beauty of it is that He has delegated the right of the usage of His name to those who are His. Salvation is to be found in His name. A generous offer that has been made to the "whosoever will." Rom. 10:13 

Healing is accomplished by the power and authority of His name. The Apostles gave the lame man at the gate that which they possessed. "In the name of Jesus Christ rise up and walk." Acts 3:6 

He was healed through faith in that name. Acts 3:16  



 
 
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PURPOSFULLY, DELIBERITALLY, GOD GAVE HIM A NAME.
His name, the name of the Lord Jesus Christ, is greater in stature and power, in acceptance by God, and in meeting every need of man than any other name. 

There is no other name like His, nor shall there ever be. Great honor and reverence will be extended to His name by every inhabitant of the earth, from Adam to the last person. 

For the saved it will be a joy, for they already respect and glorify His name. 

For the unsaved, it will be an acknowledgement that He is indeed the Lord of glory, the Son of God and that He is Deity. 

Every knee shall bow. Every tongue confess to one and the same thing. Those who have denied Him, fought Him, and even cursed Him will be forced to pay obeisance to Jesus. They will confess that Jesus Christ is Lord; an act which will not in any way detract from the Position or standing of the Father. Rather, it is a situation generated by the Father in which He will be glorified. He glories in all the respect, praise and worship given to His Son. Phil. 2:9-11  


THE SHEPHERDS HEARD THE MESSAGE. 
The angel of the Lord came to them with the pronouncement that, "this day in the city of David, a Savior (Jesus means savior), which is Christ the Lord..." 

From the very beginning of His sojourn here on earth it was fully disclosed that He was to be, "CHRIST THE LORD." Luke 2:11 

The full revelation of His name was given to them. Too frequently, at this season of the year these words are heard but do not receive the attention of which they are worthy. All the virtue. All the majesty of all that is called God is involved in this glorious name that has so graciously been applied to Him, by His very own Father. Peter was a member of those to whom the importance of that name had been revealed. His quote found in Acts 10:36 is, "Jesus Christ: (He is Lord of all.)" The Apostles recognizing the beauty and wonder of that blessed name often interjected it into the introduction or salutation of their letters. By way of example, Romans 1:7 It is also found in the conclusion of their letters and associated with the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ. Example, Rom. 16:24 They had come to appreciate the preciousness of that marvelous name and all the blessings that accompany the evoking of the full name of the Lord Jesus Christ, in all situations. As the Father honored the person of the Son, He also honors the name which He bestowed on His Son. His name, the Lord Jesus Christ, has been given to us that we may call upon Him in prayer and worship, and know that He hears.   



 
A PEOPLE FOR HIS NAME.  32
 
WATER BAPTISM IN THE ACTS OF THE APOSTLES. 
In obedience to the command of the Lord Jesus the early church set forth to accomplish the will of the Lord. They were to go into the whole world and declare the gospel of the kingdom. In keeping with the pattern established by Christ they were to baptize the believers in the name of the Father, the Son and the Holy Ghost. Mt. 28:19 It is obvious that the coming of the Holy Spirit would open a time of teaching and revelation to the Apostles. They were to be led and taught by Him. John 14:26 He would not direct them into doctrines that were contrary to the will of the Lord for He is the Spirit of Truth. He was to come, like Jesus, speaking the things that He heard and in prophetic vein revealing the future. John 16:13 Therefore we may anticipate words and works of truth from the Apostles.


THE SUM OF BAPTISM IN THE BOOK OF ACTS. 
On the day of Pentecost, Peter under the direct and fresh anointing of the Spirit instructed the new converts to be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ. Acts 2:38 

What a busy time for the Apostles with three thousand converts to be baptized. Acts 2:41 

Philip, in Samaria, (of all places), baptized them in the name of the Lord Jesus. Acts 8:16 

The Gentiles were baptized in the name of the Lord. Acts 10:48 

At Ephesus, they were baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus. Acts 19:5 

There is sufficient evidence here to assure us that the early church incorporated, in obedience to the command, the name of the Lord Jesus Christ in their baptism formula. 

It has been stated the full name, the Lord Jesus Christ was at one time used in the scriptures in each of these incidents. For a triune God, they used a triune name. The name which the Father bestowed upon His Son. To sum up the book of Acts we present the following.
	Acts 2:38		Jesus Christ.
	Acts 8:16		Lord Jesus
	Acts 10:48		Lord
	Acts 19:5		Lord Jesus

Summation.  
Lord Jesus Christ. 
The Apostle Paul consistently used the full name of the Lord Jesus Christ in his writings. He had learned the value of that name and was determined to proclaim it. 

The name of the Father, is Lord. He said I am the LORD that is my name. Isa. 42:8 

The name Jesus is the name of the Son. Mt. 1:21 

Christ is the name of the Holy Spirit for He is the Charisma or the unction. 

Water baptism in the full name of the Lord Jesus Christ fulfills the commandment to go and baptize.




A PEOPLE FOR HIS NAME. 33

THAT NAME WHICH IS ABOVE ALL NAMES. 
The Name given by God to our Lord Jesus Christ. That should seal the importance of His name to us. It was formulated by God and bestowed upon Him by God. Phil. 2:9 

In exalting the Lord Jesus Christ to His own right hand the Father further glorified and dignified Him by seeing to it there would be no other name like it on earth or in heaven, in time or eternity. There never has been nor will there ever be a name equal to that which we are privileged to use when addressing Him. Eph. 1:21 

The excellence of His name is beyond mere words. It is a name of majesty and beauty. It is the most superb name ever spoken. Be assured that heaven will resonate with the beautiful sound of that name as the redeemed of all ages worship and adore Him. Heb. 1:4


THE SON OF THE FATHER. 
The association between the Father and the Son is to be observed at various times and in several scriptures in this study. 

Grace, mercy and peace are all God like qualities that accompany the name of the Lord Jesus Christ. They are vital, not only to our spiritual well being but also to our mental and emotional self. 

The grace of the Lord is so readily imparted to us and in great abundance. The result is that we are the recipients of His plentiful mercy expressed in our forgiveness and cleansing from sin. The ultimate result is the peace of the Lord which passes all understanding. 

We may tell others about it, but until we experience it for ourselves, we do not understand the depth of His peace in our hearts. His promises are not vain promises but are dispersed by the Spirit of truth and the God who is love. 2 John 1:3


ALL PRAISE TO THE FATHER OF OUR LORD JESUS CHRIST. 
He alone is worthy of the praise and adoration of our whole being, spirit, soul and body, for He has wrought mighty and great things for us. 

Through the Lord Jesus Christ, He has "begotten us again," worked a process of new birth in us, by the resurrection of His Son from the grave. This is the beginning of real life. 

Life begins when one accepts the Lord Jesus Christ as their savior. Until that moment they are dead in trespasses and sin. 1 Pet. 1:3 

Furthermore the Father, with great profusion, without restraint, has blessed us with all spiritual blessings in that we are to be found in heavenly places through the Lord Jesus Christ. There is no limit established in the words found recorded in this portion of scripture. Eph. 1:3 

What great and marvelous things the Lord has done. Enter in, enjoy them.



A PEOPLE FOR HIS NAME.  34 

JUSTIFICATION PRODUCES PEACE. 
There is only one source of justification. That is through faith in the atonement provided by the shedding of the blood of Christ. 

Where His peace prevails, His joy will also be made manifest in the believer. Rom. 5:11 

The result of justification through the Lord Jesus Christ is peace with God, the Father. Rom. 5:1 

A peace that supercedes any and all peace that one may find outside of Christ; His peace will remove all doubt as to our eternal destiny. In the midst of a troubled world, He gives assurance by His peace. Rest, quietness, tranquility, is the right of those who walk by faith in the Lord Jesus Christ. 

Neither be troubled, stirred up or agitated. Be not afraid. He has committed that same peace that filled His being, to us, that in the midst of turmoil we might exercise perfect peace, in Him. John 14:27 

God sent the Word. The Lord Jesus Christ came with the only message of true peace and proclaimed it to Israel. What worked then will still work today. All who come to the God through the Lord Jesus Christ will be established in peace. Acts 10:36


THE GLORY OF OUR LORD JESUS CHRIST. 
The Glory of the Lord Jesus is a share glory. His desire was that His disciples be with Him in eternity and that they might see Him in His eternal glory, in all of the splendour of that which is heavenly and God like. John 17:25 

The glory which had been given Him of His Father He had already shared with His disciples with the thought in mind that they would achieve the same unity that exists in the Godhead. John 17:22 

The called of the Lord are to obtain the same glory which was resident within the Lord Jesus Christ. What a blessedness, what majestic sharing of all that is to be found in Him. It is most pathetic that spiritually we live so lacking in what has been prepared for us. 

It is time to arouse and waken from our slumber. The precious and glorious things of the Lord are there for us. We just need to take the territory and claim our rights in the Lord Jesus Christ. 2 Thess. 2:14


A GOSPEL COMMAND. 
An act that was to be undertaken in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ. The command called for a separation from those who were spiritually walking contrary to the standards of the Word of the Lord. 2 Thess. 3:6 

A separation is to be made from those who cause divisions and commit offences that lead to false doctrines. They are to be  avoided, set apart and separated, lest others begin to manifest the same spirit. Rom. 16:17     




A PEOPLE FOR HIS NAME.  35

THE FATHER WAS IN THE SON. 
A relationship Divine. From the very beginning of His ministry the Lord Jesus Christ declared the fact that the presence of the Father was in Him. Does it help if we remember that "God is a Spirit." John 4:24 

As one who has a Spirit nature He is able to enter where He chooses. Jesus never said that the Father and He were the same person. But He did say, "My Father and I are one." John 10:30 

One in every aspect, except for the fact that Jesus had a physical body and the Father is Spirit. The Spiritual being is that which is eternal, and is more real than the physical. The natural body will die, but the man born of the Spirit lives forever. The latter is far more real than the former.


GOD WAS IN CHRIST. 
Repeatedly the scriptures relate a beautiful harmony between the Father and the Son. The salvation of the world is the intent and purpose of the Lord God in sending His Son into the world on a rescue mission. Reconciliation was on His heart and mind. 2 Cor. 5:19 

The Father, led Christ. He instructed Him. "I speak that which I have seen of my Father. John 8:38 

He worked through Him and there was a constant communication between them. "My Father worketh hitherto, and I work." John 5:17 

Persistently, the Lord Jesus affirms the fact of a holy and blessed unity between His Father and Himself. The Father dwelt within the spirit nature of the Lord Jesus Christ. John 14:10-11


THE GREATNESS OF THE FATHER. 
In the course of human affairs there must always be a leader, one who will bear the responsibility of decision making. The Lord Jesus Christ confessed that the Father was greater than He. John 14:28 

Yet, in that divine order there was also an equality that is shared. When Jesus indicated that His works were the works of the Father, the Jews were quick to comprehend that He was making Himself equal with the Father. John 5:18 

Which of course, He is. Jesus did not consider it to be contradictory to be recognized as God, in human form. Phil. 2:6 

He possessed all the divine attributes of His Father. He was the shining forth, the effulgence, the revelation of the glory of the Father. So precisely so, that He could say that if any man hath seen Me, he has seen the Father.  John 14:19 

The almost exact likeness between the Father and the Son can be confusing at times. However, if we take the volume of the book, there is no confusion.     



 
A PEOPLE FOR HIS NAME.  36

RESULTS OF BELIEVING. 
The Ephesian church manifested explicit trust and faith in the Word of truth that was ministered to them. It produced a work of salvation, new birth that made manifest a new man. Such a thorough work of redemption that they were immediately led to a deeper work of the sealing of the Spirit. 

As on the day of Pentecost they too were filled with the blessed Holy Sprit. However great the measure of the filling of the Spirit in the initial baptism of the Spirit, there is still more to be obtained. In dealing with the Spirit we are coming to one who is inexhaustible. What we have received in the baptism of the Spirit is but a down payment. 

There is yet more to come. When we have received that which is to come, there is still more to come and so on. The true last day church will be totally motivated by the Holy Spirit in His fullness. Her every action will be in the perfect will of the Lord. Eph. 3:13-14


ANOTHER VITAL REQUISITE FOR MEMEBERS OF HIS CHURCH.
A Jew in heart by virtue of Spiritual circumcision. A work that is accomplished in the heart of the believer, and by the Spirit of the Lord. As necessary as circumcision was to those who worshipped after the Law, so needful is the work of the Spirit, in the heart and spirit of the person who would be child of the Lord. While often overlooked and ignored it remains an essential for those who would serve the Lord with the whole heart. Rom. 2:9 

It is called the circumcision of Christ. It is identified as the laying aside of the sinful, carnal nature of the natural man, a work carried out by the Word and the Spirit of the Lord. Col. 2:11 

A new creature must be totally new, particularly in the inner man. This work will give evidence itself in attitudes, words, thoughts and deeds.


FORMED INTO THE LIKENESS OF CHRIST. 
To put on Christ, there must first be a cleansing. Uncleanness and all impurities of the spirit and the flesh are repulsive to the righteousness found in Christ. The sin of the  world and holiness of Christ do not mix. There is no place for compromise. We are either in Christ or we are none of His. The wedding gown is to be worn by those who put on Christ. Which is, of course, the greatest privilege ever extended to mankind. Gal. 3:27 

The tremendous price paid for some wedding gowns today is astonishing, especially when they are worn for only one occasion. Of what greater value the gown of the Bride of Christ, which is Christ Jesus Himself. She will eternally wear her gown of beauty and glory.     




A PEOPLE FOR HIS NAME.  37

BAPTIZED INTO CHRIST. 
Inasmuch as baptism designates being surrounded and covered by water - or by the Spirit - we are placed into the element of baptism. We have been placed ‘into’ Christ Jesus. Therefore we have put on Christ. We are clothed and filled with the Christ or the anointing. Gal. 3:27 

All racial character and nature is laid aside giving place to the new man, the new character, which is found in the Lord Jesus Christ. To those who are in Christ, His life is now revealed in that new nature which all must receive. We are to be one in Christ and He is to be all, everything, in us all, everyone. Gal. 3:28 

While there will be established leadership, the kingdom of heaven is raceless and classless. The divisions of society, caused by men, will not exist in the true body of Christ, His true church. Col. 3:11


THE NEW MAN, A CREATION OF THE LORD. 
Only the Lord could make the changes necessary for the tremendous change which is accomplished in the life of one who is the handiwork of the Lord Jesus.They are changed from a life of impurities and ungodliness, to a life reflecting His righteousness and holiness. Eph. 4:24 

When clothed with Christ the purpose of the individual's life is altered, from that of worldly desires to a hunger and longing for things that are spiritual. Therefore, the flesh, the sinful nature is to be completely dominated by the new nature, which is found in Christ. Rom. 13:14


THE EVIDENCE, THE MANIFESTATION OF THE CHRIST LIFE.
The fruit of those who are the very elect of the Lord. If there is no fruit, then there is no life. Col. 3:12 teaches us what we are to expect as proof of the new character. These stipulations are then followed by one of the most important elements of our spiritual life. 

Forgiveness, if we practice real, honest, true forgiveness, we will be blest of the Lord. It is His standard for each and every one who names the name of Christ. Lip service in this matter is not sufficient, forgiveness must originate from the heart and spirit of the individual. However great or small the offence, they all must be treated in the same manner. Forgive with the same measure that Jesus used when you were forgiven, pardoned and cleansed from a sinful past. Col. 3:13 

The Lord Jesus exercised the perfect example when He prayed for those who crucified Him. There was no enmity in His heart, whatsoever. What is forgiven is forever and is past and will not be held against those who are forgiven.  




A PEOPLE FOR HIS NAME.  38

AN APPOINTED MINISTRY FOR A PREDETERMINED TIME.
Paul realized that he was a man of destiny. He had been saved and called into the Ministry for the definite purpose of taking the gospel to the Gentiles. He called it, "a dispensation of God." Col. 1:25 

It was a time allotted him to fulfill his high calling in Christ. At the same time it was a dispensation of grace to the Gentiles that they might come to know Christ and be fully accepted into the Faith. Eph. 3:2 

The sign of their acceptance was the baptism of the Spirit, which was performing a work of sanctification in them. Rom. 15:15-16 

In that way he was accomplishing the prophetic utterances of the Word concerning the gospel being presented to the Gentiles.


A MYSTERY, HIDDEN FROM THE PAST AGES. 
The Lord revealed to Paul that which had been written, but kept secret. It was not as if though the prophecies pertaining to the Gentiles were hidden on a scroll in a cave somewhere, they were openly recorded and often read. Take for instance, a dual prophecy recorded in Isaiah 11:10 It speaks of the coming of the Lord Jesus and the Gentiles seeking after Him. Jesus was to be as a light unto the Gentiles. Isa. 49:6 

Many are the prophecies pertaining to the Gentiles in Isaiah and elsewhere. Even though they read them with their eyes and heard them read with their ears, because there was no revelation, they did not comprehend. Only the Spirit of the Lord can give a full and complete understanding of the Word. Col. 1:26 

Paul did not stand alone in the revelation given him. It was also verified by others who were Apostles and Prophets of that day. Eph. 3:4-5 

That follows the Bible pattern of two or three witnesses. How blessed it is when one's calling is verified by others of like faith. It demonstrates body ministry in contrast to someone trying to go it alone.


A BEAUTIFUL AND JOYOUS REVELATION. 
Christ came, not to one nation alone, but to the whole world, excluding none. The Gentiles were not to be second class citizens of the kingdom of Christ but "fellow heirs." Of equal standing and inheritance in the blessings of the Lord. 

They were to become members of the body of Christ, incorporated into all that the Lord was working out in His church. Fully participating, being excluded from nothing, in Christ. Every promise given to any race or people was theirs to share and share alike. Jew and Gentile united together in one body. The body of Christ where all distinction is laid aside. Eph. 3:6, 2:14 




A PEOPLE FOR HIS NAME.  39

CHRIST IN YOU. 
Whether Jew or Gentile, rich or poor, Christ in you exceeds all the riches of this life and of this world.
Col. 1:27 

When the church seeks His riches with the same energy and effort that they seek the riches of this world, we will see revival. The gifts of the Lord far exceed in value all the wealth that one might accumulate in this life. The spirit of the world can only lead to that which is of this world. The things of the Spirit are eternal and do not cease to exist. 1 Cor. 2:12 

What had been a mystery is now thrown wide open, it is exposed and made known. It is the availability of the riches of His glory as seen delivered to the Gentiles.


EVERY MAN PERFECT. 
We are continuously told that we cannot be perfect or become a mature Christian. If that be so, why was Paul so pressured to warn and teach all that there is a perfection in Christ which may be reached and fully installed in our hearts? In describing the compulsion that drove him he noted these things. 

He preached the gospel inserting a message of warning to all. 

He like wise taught them the ways of the Lord with none purpose in mind and that was to present them perfect, in Christ. 

He labored to see good results in the lives of those to whom he ministered. He was driven by the Spirit of the Lord. There is no greater instigator than the Holy Spirit. Col. 1:28-29 

The desire of the Lord for a people just like Himself has never changed. We are living in the day where His goals will be finished in His church.


THE SON OF GOD HAS COME. 
With Him came the ability to know and understand the God whom we follow and serve.
The ministry of Christ is constantly that of teaching and showing the ways of the Lord. His ministers follow the same pattern. They must constantly be presenting the Lord Jesus to both the saved and the unsaved. He is the truth and the beauty of that is that we are in Him and know Him who is truth. 1 John 5:20 

Where Jesus abides, truth is made manifest. Jesus, the eternal Logos, was born of man and so became flesh. However contrary to the ways of the flesh, He is the very embodiment of grace and truth. John 1:14 

Truth dwells within those who are in Christ Jesus. Where there is no truth, He does not abide. When we have partaken of His nature and character He will manifest Himself in us. Speak and live the truth and shame the devil.           




A PEOPLE FOR HIS NAME. 40

NO ARGUMENT HERE. 
Indeed to the worldly, human mind, God is a great mystery. It need not be so, for the Word of the Lord aptly reveals Him, just as His. The whole intent of the Lord has always been to remove the mystery which surrounds Him and fully reveal Himself. 

Everything that we need to know about Him now, is recorded in His Word. It however does not exhaust the continuous revelation of His being. Only eternity will make known the greatness of His everlasting person. The finite mind cannot comprehend that which is infinite. We live in this life under the sentence of death. He is, life everlasting. 1 Tim. 3:16


GOD, CAME IN THE FLESH. 
God was in Christ for the explicit purpose of reconciling the world unto Himself. 2 Cor. 5:19 

From the very beginning of His entrance as a person into this world He made it plain who He was. Emmanuel, God with us. The child of the virgin was not only the Son of God but He was God veiled in a human body. Mt. 1:23 

Had the Father Himself come into the world they would have treated Him no differently. That is self evident as we view the dealings of the Lord with the people of the old testament. They were anything but obedient to His will.


ALL FLESH TREATED ALIKE. 
In spite of the fact of His background and origin it was necessary for the Lord Jesus to be redeemed. Once He was born into this world as a human being, there was only one way of redemption for Him, and that was by His own blood. Entrance into the Holy place and the Most Holy required an atonement to be made by the priest. The Lord Jesus gained access "by His own blood" having accomplished everlasting redemption for mankind. Heb. 9:12 

The final and only acceptable sacrifice for salvation was that which was made by the Lord Jesus. The Lamb of God, pure, sinless, perfect in every aspect of His being, both spiritually and physically. All other sacrifices that had been made, in the past, under the Law, were only rendered effective when Christ became that perfect sacrifice. 1 Pet. 1:19 

When we view the greatness of this person called Jesus, we stand in amazement at His commitment to the work that had been prepared for Him, even from eternity. As God, it must have been extremely repulsive to Him to become the sin of the world and to bear that tremendous load of guilt and condemnation. As a man, who would want to die His death? Publicly humiliated and ridiculed? What a tremendous love He has for fallen mankind. 




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THE BEGINNING AND THE WORD. 
Without the Word there would have been no beginning.  John 1:1 

The Word is that source of revelation which makes known to man the living God. Some would be content to merely have the Word to be with God, which indeed He was. However, Deity must also be ascribed to the WORD, for He is declared to be God. In the eternity past, He was not called Jesus; that is His earthly name. 

It speaks of His sojourn on earth as the Savior, and as the true representative of God to mankind. All that is to be found of God, is to be found in the Lord Jesus Christ. The scriptures show that when He was baptized of John the Baptist and was filled with the Spirit the fullness of God took up residence within Him. Note that it was the good pleasure of the Father that this be so. Col. 1:19


THE WORD OF LIFE. 
Living in this world without the Lord Jesus as Savior is not living. It is mere existence. Life is found in Christ alone. John gave full testimony of what He called "the Word of life". He stated that he had heard the Word for himself. He had seen the effectiveness of it in the healing of the sick even to the raising of the dead. He was a witness to its miracle working power. 

He was one of those sent out by the Lord Jesus to perform the same mighty works, so he had hands on experience. He was an excellent witness and could well verify the truth of the Word. 1 John 1:1 

The life of the Word was made visible and he had seen its effects. Therefore he bore witness that the Father was also with the Son in His manifestation to the world. 1 John 1:1-2


THE HUMANITY OF THE WORD. 
It became flesh. 

Became one with fallen humanity. 

Clothed in a physical body. Subjected to all the temptations, trials and perplexities of the fleshly body. 

Yet was triumphant in ever situation which He faced, even over death, hell and the grave. 

While triumphing over the negative He displayed that which is positive; beyond that He brought to mankind that which is glorious. He was the revelation of the glory of the Father to all men. He was unique in His coming into this world for He united two spheres, that which is natural and that which is spiritual. 

He was completely God and fully man. He made it possible for man to enter into and enjoy the blessings of all things spiritual. Through Him we are the recipients of the grace of the Lord. His truth saves and strengthens us. He is the only savior and all must come through Him.  John 1:14




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JUSTIFIED IN THE WORLD. 1 Tim. 3:16 
The truth that Jesus taught and the demonstration of the power of the Lord in His ministry gave proof of His justification. Words are often used by people to justify themselves but they lack sincerity and demonstration. Jesus used the Word of the Lord and then followed it by works, proving the words which He had spoken. Mt. 12:37 

An example may be found in the leper who came to Him for healing from his leprosy. Jesus said, "I will, be thou clean." Immediately he was healed. Mt. 8:3


JUSTIFIED IN TEMPTATION. 
Having been filled with the Spirit, He was then led of the Spirit into the wilderness to face temptation. The Spirit of the Lord in Him did not wait for an attack from the devil but aggressively took the battle to him. Mt. 4:1
 
Having fasted forty days and nights, obviously without hunger, for he was not hungry until the conclusion of His fast. Satan, knowing the pangs of human hunger, confronted Jesus with a challenge to demonstrate that He was indeed the Son of God. Perform a creative act, change these stones into bread.

Mt. 4:3 Jesus responded by quoting the written Word. Man lives by the Word of the Lord. Mt. 4:4 

Jesus overcame the lust of the flesh, not only for a natural thing such as hunger but also all the human, soulish, sinful appetites.
 
"IF" you are the Son of God. Satan is always casting doubt and unbelief.  Prove the scriptures, throw yourself down and the angels will catch you. Again Jesus responded with the written Word. Do you think there is a lesson to be learned here? Jesus then proclaimed His Deity, by responding, "Thou shalt not tempt the Lord thy God." 

The devil did not challenge that statement for he well knew with whom he was dealing. The devil may not be able to speak the truth but he knows it when he hears it. Jesus overcame the pride of life or the temptation to demonstration His great powers. Mt. 4:6-7
 
Satan then showed him all the kingdoms of this world. Surely, that involved all kingdoms of all times. An opportunity to become a political leader and be one of the great men of this world. How foolish to offer the King of kings, the Lord of heaven and earth, the creator of this world and the new heaven and earth, that which was already His. All yours if you worship me. As Deity, Jesus again responded  with the Word. Mt. 4:8-10 

In this manner He triumphed over the lust of the eyes. 




A PEOPLE FOR HIS NAME. 43
 
JUSTIFIED IN THE SPIRIT. 
As should be expected the life of the Lord Jesus, as the Son of God, was repeatedly verified.  Isaiah, the prophet spoke of Him and stated that ‘the Spirit of the Lord shall rest upon Him." Isa. 11:2 

His acknowledgement as the Son was to be evidenced by the presence of the Spirit of the Lord in His life. That was most certainly evidenced at the time of His water baptism, when the Spirit of the Lord filled Him with all the fullness of the Almighty. John 1:32 He performed deliverance from demonic powers by the Spirit of the Lord which was resident within Him. Mt. 12:28 The Father spoke words of recognition and commendation on the Mt. of Transfiguration, when He acknowledged Jesus as His Son and proclaimed that He was well pleased with Him. Mt. 17:5
 

SEEN OF ANGELS. 
The angel of the Lord was called upon to announce to the shepherds the fact of His birth. With Him there appeared a multitude of the heavenly host who were praising the Lord. Were they angels. It does not say so. Luke 2:13 

As a matter of fact Psalm 148:2 differentiates between angels and the heavenly host. The heavenly host sounds very much like a redeemed people. We must always remember that the term angel is very ambiguous. It most definitely does not always refer to a created angel. For instance, the two seen sitting at the head and the feet of where the body of Jesus was lain had to have been the two witnesses, how else could they testify during the tribulation of His death and resurrection. A witness must have seen the transaction of which he is to testify. They were identified by name on the Mt. of transfiguration, as being Moses and Elijah. Mt. 17:3 

They were also present at His ascension and had a special message for His disciples. Acts 1:10
 

PREACHED UNTO THE GENTILES. 
Jesus Himself, dwelt in and preached in Galilee of the Gentiles, in order that the prophetic utterance of Isaiah might be fulfilled. Mt. 4:14 

The Lord said of Paul that he was a chosen vessel to take His name to the Gentiles. Acts 9:15 

Peter was sent to the house of one Simon dwelling in Joppa who was a Gentile and saw the blessing of the Lord manifest in his household. Acts 11:13-15 

Paul and Barnabas in disgust over the attitude of the Jews and responding to the call of the Lord said, "We turn to the Gentiles." Acts 13:28 

The house of the Lord is a house of prayer for all people, not just one race. All come through the same door. There is no back door to salvation.  




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BELIEVED AND RECEIVED. 
The right to receive or reject is given to every person born into this world. Unfortunately, some make a bad decision when it comes to the Word of the Lord and refuse it. When Christ is rejected, eternal life is lost. The scriptures plainly state that "He who believeth and is baptized shall be saved; but he that believeth not shall be dammed." Mark 16:16 

The result of believing and not believing could not be declared in a simpler, nor a more forceful manner. The eternal future of every person on earth is decided on this Word of the Lord Jesus. The person who wants to live forever will believe that Jesus is indeed the Christ, the Son of God.  
 

COMMENDATION OR CONDEMNATION? The person of faith is not to be condemned. The unbeliever lives in constant condemnation and guilt for they are already condemned. John 3:18 

The promise of the Lord Jesus is that whosoever believeth in Him will not perish. By their faith and trust in Him they already have eternal life. John 3:16 

The unbeliever not only lives with condemnation but literally, "wrath of God abideth on him." John 3:36 

A persons eternal destiny is determined by their acceptance or rejection of Christ. There is no gray area, it is either black of white, condemned of commended. The believer is alive in Christ, while the unbeliever is dead in trespasses and sin. Eph. 2:1
 

THE BELIEVER. 
The spiritual journey begins with a most blessed assurance when one believes on the Lord Jesus Christ. They find great relief from the condemnation of sin. They are assured that their sins are remitted. They are pardoned by the Lord. The guilt is gone. They are set free from condemnation. Acts 10:43 

Another of the great benefits of believing on Christ is the promise that from the innermost being, the spiritual entity, there will flow rivers of living water. Which is a type of the Holy Spirit who is resident within the Spirit filled. The river of the Lord is not stagnant, it is ever flowing, fresh, pure, clean and with power. John 7:38     

Not only do they have everlasting life but the Lord has likewise assured them of their future resurrection. They shall be raised from their graves and possess an eternal, spiritual body. John 6:40 

Faith in the Lord Jesus will produce the exact works that He wrought when He ministered personally, here on earth. He has not withdrawn His  power from His beloved believers to perform identical works to His, more so, in these last days. John 14:12




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APPROACHING CRUCIFIXION. 
Jesus knew full well the future that awaited Him and spoke of it plainly with His disciples. Their reaction was one of great sorrow. A very natural reaction to the loss of a dynamic leader and friend. Mt. 17:23 

Jesus said that they would weep and lament while the world around them rejoiced in the death of Christ. However that was not the end of the story. He promised that their sorrow would be turned into joy. John 16:20 

For He would see them again. When that took place they would rejoice and find a joy which no man could take from them. John 16:22 

The sorrows, temptations, tests and trial of this life are but stepping stones to the ultimate goal. We are to count them "all joy" for they will promote spiritual growth and faith. James 1:2-4
 

HE OUTLINED FOR THEM THE COMING EVENTS. 
The religious leaders of that day would instigate the suffering that He would endure in Jerusalem. They were the elders, the priests and the scribes. These men sat as the Sanhedrim, the heart and core of their religion. More than any others they should have known the prophecies concerning the coming Messiah. It was their responsibility to interpret the scriptures and recognize their fulfillment in the ministry of the Lord Jesus. Mt. 16:21 

Isaiah in his prophecy presented a picture of one who’s face was damaged more than any others and His body grossly mangled. Isa. 52:14 

Their actions against Him were of the most heinous nature and most repulsive. They mocked, jeered and derided Him. He was scourged or beaten with a cat-of-nine tails until His back was just one bloody mass. In disdain and contempt they spit upon Him. Mk. 10:34 

He called them, "sinful men." Lk. 24:7       
 

JESUS EMPHASISED HIS RESURRECTION. 
He repeatedly assured them that He would only be three days and three nights in the grave. He used the experience of Jonah as an example of the period of time which He would spend in the tomb. Mt. 12:40 

It was to be a sign not only to that generation but to all succeeding generations. It is important that we clearly see that Jesus accentuated the fact that He was to be "three days and three nights" in the grave. This is not a Jewish idiom it is a statement of fact and is vital to a proper understanding of the Week of crucifixion and in particular the exact day of His crucifixion. He completed perfectly all that had been prophesied by others and also what He had proclaimed.




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BLESSED ASSURANCE. 
Jesus raised from the grave and exalted to the right hand of God. His death burial and resurrection witnessed by His disciples and hundreds of others who were believers. We are witnesses. Acts 2:32 

He appeared to them after His resurrection. Paul gave the number of above five hundred. 1 Cor. 15:6 

The positive proof of His exaltation was that glorious event on the day of Pentecost. That great moment where one hundred and twenty were filled with the Holy Ghost. It was a witness and testimony that Jesus was at the right hand of the Father and had received of Him the promised Holy Ghost. In this manner verifying His ascendancy on high. Acts 2:33
 

KNOWING THE LORD JESUS. 
It is the will of the Lord that we Have a deep and intimate knowledge of Christ and all that pertains to Him. A casual knowledge is not sufficient. Too many are plagued with just a basic understanding of the fundamentals of salvation and never go deeper in the things of Christ. They have been born again but remain as spiritual babes. Never advancing beyond the fundamentals of the gospel. Not to minimize the foundational principals, for they are necessary for a proper base upon which to build the whole building. We are privileged to be given, in the Lord, "the spirit of wisdom and revelation in the knowledge of Him." Eph. 1:17 

Who among us has not dreamed of finding the hidden treasures of a past generation. They are there for us, in Christ Jesus, if we will just apply ourselves to a study of the Word and the seeking of His face. Vast treasures await the diligent who seek to know Jesus in an ever increasing manner.
 

OPENED EYES, OPENED HEART AND SPIRIT. 
To the "know it all," there is nothing. To those who hunger and thirst there is a vast store house of riches untold. A lifetime of study cannot exhaust all that there is to know and understand about the Lord. Even in eternity He will constantly be unfolding the vastness of His eternal nature. He is God and as such is infinite. There will never be a boring or uninteresting moment in His presence. Now, it is His good pleasure to make Himself known to His own. His light, enlightens the eyes of our spiritual understanding and we come to know Him more fully as we continue on with Him. Eph. 1:18 

What a blessedness is afforded us that we may come to a close and living acquaintance with the God of the whole earth. There is indeed, no one like our Jehovah.




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HIS LIGHT ON HIS WORD. 
In the thoughts of the heart, the spiritual man, has the privilege of the Spirit shining upon and illuminating The Word of the Lord. Causing a comprehension, an understanding of the intent of the Lord in His Word. While some seem to fear the thought of the "revelation of the Word." It is still a fact that we need the Lord to open our spiritual hearts and minds to fully grasp the truths of the Word. Eph. 1:18 

It is obvious that someone in the church is not following the leading of the Spirit or there would not be such a mixture of contradictory teachings. Could it be that some have been blinded by the god of this world and therefore are not walking in the full light of the gospel. 2 Cor. 4:4

 
THE APOSTLES APPEAL. 
With strong words Paul wrote to the Corinthians that they "all speak the same thing." 1 Cor. 1:10 

It was an appeal for doctrinal unity. Void of any division whatsoever. In perfect harmony. Seems like a dream. Even the most intimate of religious organizations have among them splinter groups who cause division. Is it too much to envision a church in the end of the age that has reached just such a maturity in Christ? There are no schisms in the Lord. There is nothing but perfect unity in the Godhead. In the true church of the end time, which will become the bride of Christ, there will be absolute concord, especially in faith or beliefs. Eph. 4:5 

Their teaching, their doctrine will be but one, the true meat of the Word.
 

TRUE PENTECOST. 
The first church in Jerusalem was a church of unity. So much so that the Apostle wrote of the multitude being of "one heart and one soul." Acts 4:32 

What a beautiful example of the results of first love and the operation of the Spirit in their midst. A situation greatly to be desired. Paul in the book of Romans urged them to be united in their activities for the Lord. To be of the same mind, not to be puppets, but to have the mind of Christ in all things and to act accordingly. Rom. 12:16 

He desired to see them having the same attitude one toward another, equally evaluating others to be better than themselves. Not a false modesty but as Christ served, so let them serve others. He wanted to see them with one mind and one speech, a conduct of their lives which would glorify the Lord. Rom. 15:5-6 

Those causing divisions were to be marked and separated from among the believers. Seemingly a stern attitude to take, but scriptural. Rom. 16:17  




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THE DAWNING OF TRUTH. 
Jesus opened the understanding of His disciples that they might understand the scriptures. This indicates to us that without spiritual illumination, the Holy Bible is a closed book. Anyone can read its words and understand the history, the poetry and the stories that are written on its pages, but without the help of the Holy Spirit, the thrill and life of the book remains a mystery. His disciples had been with Him constantly, They had seen His mighty works. They had heard His messages. Yet He had to do a special work for them to come to a comprehension of His Word. Luke 24:45
 

JESUS GAVE POSITIVE DIECTIONS TO PAUL. 
When they met on the road to Damascus the directive of the Lord was very definite. He was to go to the Gentiles. His message would cause them to turn and go in a diametrically opposite direction of life.

Their eyes were to be opened. They would be given the ability to know and receive Jesus as their Lord and savior. Where they walked in darkness, they would walk in light. Once dominated by the powers of darkness they would learn and experience the power of the Lord. Their sins were to be forgiven. They were to be accepted and given an inheritance among the beloved and sanctified. Acts 26:17-18 

How marvelous and amazing are the ways of the Lord. He took a radical in his religion, a persecutor of Jesus and the brethren. Then saved him. Changed him and then sent him to the Gentiles whom he had also previously despised, to preach the unsearchable riches of Christ. Surely, the Lord is no respecter of person.

 
BLINDED MINDS. 
What other reason could there possible be for the rejection of the God of love. The only deity who has given of the best of heaven to redeem mankind. Veiled hearts, minds that are closed to the truth of the Word. Only Christ can remove the vial and cause their hearts to be opened and find Jesus as Lord and master. 2 Cor. 3:14-16 

Spiritually blinded eyes, blinded hearts and blinded minds are the result of sin. It indicates that these persons are under the domination of the powers of darkness or Satan and his wicked forces. 2 Cor. 4:4  

They are missing out on all the blessings of the Lord. They are not being enlightened by the glory of the Lord. Most people coming to Christ, marvel that they did not come to Him sooner. It is so wonderful to know and serve the Lord Jesus. How grateful we should be inasmuch as He has opened our understanding and we know the Lord Jesus.            




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THE SECRET TO OBTAINING GREAT WEALTH. 
Amazing how attractive those words are. Repeatedly, mail and e-mail is flooded with schemes of quick and sure methods of gaining the wealth of this world. Now, even the church is caught up in seeking after the riches of this world. This too is an end time sign that is ignored today. Remember the Laodicean church. It is the church which typifies the worldly, lukewarm, indifferent, compromising last day church. 

Her positive attitude will develop great riches for her. The ability to buy, and gather to herself all the worldly goods that she could possibly accumulate. Causing her to say, "I have need of nothing." Totally self sufficient in her own eyes. Are we there yet? If not we are awfully close to having accomplished the goals of this particular church. Rev. 3:17
 

PATHETICALLY, WITHOUT TRUE KNOWLEDGE. 
The response of the Lord to such a condition in His church is direct and convicting. On the surface, this church seems to be very successful in achieving their goals. However the Lord has another view of the situation. He speaks directly to the heart.

They are a wretched, miserable group. How often must it be said that money cannot buy happiness. The Lord describes them as being rich, yet poor. They are encumbered with something that cannot buy them a place in heaven. At the day of their departure from this life, they immediately leave it all. If, in their seeking after the riches of this world they have neglected the Lord, (which is very often the case), then they are excessively poor. 

They have missed the best things in this life and in that which is to come. A person with such a drive for wealth is blind spiritually. It seems at times as though it is a deliberate, self inflicted blindness. They are also naked, before the Lord. He knows their plans and purposes. He knows where the love of their life is focused. He completely understands the thoughts and intents of the human heart. Rev. 3:17 

These things which men so strongly seek after are all corruptible, some of them will rust out. Others are destroyed by insects. Then there is that constant threat of them being stolen or removed by means of deception, such as identity theft. Jesus warned about being caught up in the spirit of the age. Make certain that you store up the true treasures, spiritual, eternal, heavenly treasures which will last for eternity. Mt. 6:19 

Heed His Word and be blest of the Lord Jesus.           




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THE COUNSEL OF THE LORD. 
There is no more excellent counsel than that which originates with the Lord. He has promised to give us instruction in the path which we take. He will also guide us with His eye. The all seeing eye of the Lord assuring us that when we walk with Him He sees every step that we take and is there to keep us in perfect peace.
Ps. 32:8 

The ultimate of His counsel is the reception of that individual into the realms of His glory. He not only gives perfect counsel but He enables us to over come our problems. Ps. 73:24 His Word is our counsel and the light of our pathway. Ps. 119:105
 

BUY OF ME. 
Take a stroll through the storehouse of the Lord. See what is on the shelf. He has prepared truth, wisdom, instruction and understanding. The beauty of it all, is the fact that it is free, gratis for the taking. Actually, it cannot be purchased with money. Money has no value in this storehouse. Here we find wine, the joy of the Spirit of the Lord. Milk, the basic elements of the Word of the Lord. Isa. 55:1 

Eventually coming to a status where we can eat the strong meat, the mysteries and secret things of the Word. The ability to exercise discernment, accepting those things which are beneficial to our spiritual well being and rejecting that which is detrimental. Heb. 5:14 


OIL, 
the anointing of the Spirit is also one of those commodities to be found in His storehouse. It is extremely vital as we approach the coming of the Bridegroom. We are entering the midnight hour. He will soon knock at the door and only those who have made preparation to have an extra supply of oil will make it in to the wedding. Mt. 25:9-12
 

GOLD. 
The precious metal, seemingly of ever increasing value. Which of course it is, if it is that gold offered by the Lord. Gold which has been thoroughly tested in the fire. Pure gold, depicting the righteousness of the Lord imputed to His saints. Pure gold, the product of smelting. The process of removing all impurities from the real thing. The faith of every person will be tried and will increase by leaps and bounds the closer we come to the end of the age. This is the process whereby each member of the body of Christ is purged, sanctified and cleansed from the contaminants of this world. It also brings a separation from the church of those who are not sincere in their faith in the Lord. Real revival will bring a separation and reveal the nature and attitude of those who are not truly serving the Lord. 1 Pet. 1:7 

We face great changes. 




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WHO HAS THE BEST DEAL? 
How often when purchasing a major item we look for the very best price and bargain. Now, who offers us the best possible gain? This present world or the Lord? "For what shall it profit a man, if he shall gain the whole world and loose his own soul?" Mk. 8:36 

The only things that are worthwhile are the things which we can continue to possess in the life to come.
Rev. 3:18  

All that is of the world will pass away. Jesus was rich. We would not do Him an injustice by saying that He was the richest to ever have live on this earth. All of His riches He laid aside and became poor, that He might bring salvation, and consequently great spiritual riches to mankind. 2 Cor. 8:9 

One evidence of having received of His riches is the willingness of the Christian to be "rich in good works." Manifesting to the world that mercy and grace which is in the Lord Jesus Christ.
1 Tim. 6:18 How interesting to see just whom the Lord has chosen. The poor of this world, but "rich in faith." Who are also accounted to be heirs of the kingdom of God. Faith will be fruitful when the greatest of riches fail. James 2:5
 

WHITE RAIMENT. 
White, Greek, leukos, from luke (light). The garment of the redeemer and the redeemed. The Lord Himself is the source of all light, therefore there must emanate from Him a constant flow of brilliant light. It is His very nature, His being. He is called a Sun. Ps. 84:11 

While He is far greater than all the suns in our universe He still shines as the greatest of all lights. The prophetic voice proclaimed that the Son would be as a Sun of righteousness. Mal. 4:2 

Not only does the Lord create all light both natural and spiritual but by very character, God is light. 1 John 1:5 Furthermore, He dwells in light unto which no man can approach. 1 Tim. 6:16 

In order to dwell in His presence it is necessary that one be clothed with the same light. Heaven is filled with light and beings of light who are covered with the brilliancy of His righteousness. Jesus proclaimed that the righteous would shine forth as the sun in the kingdom of the Lord. Mt. 13:43 

The throne of the Lord itself, has that same beautiful appearance of the glory of the Lord. Rev. 20:11 

The multitudes of heaven are seen clothed in white raiment, when in praise unto the Lord. Rev. 7:9 

They are also clothed in like manner when they accompany the Lord Jesus at His return. Rev. 19:14 

For a preview of what a glorious manifestation of light that will be, we see Jesus on the Mount of Transfiguration. His face shone as the sun. Mt. 17:2 




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THE EYE GATE. 
Some one has said that the eye was the gate to the soul. Jesus made it very clear that the illumination of the whole man, is the eye. The spiritually focused eye, concentrates on seeing the Lord Jesus. It reads His Word and therefore is enlightened in the whole man, body, soul and spirit. The individual who is filled with light walks in the glory, the power and strength of that mighty force. Mt. 6:22 

Where would the world be without electricity? You would not be receiving this e-mail nor would you be reading it. Our world of today is dependent on electrical power. Likewise, the church is dependent on the power, the light of the Lord. All true members of the body of Christ are children of light. They have been born of that heavenly light which lightens the world. They are children of the day and walk in the light of the Lord. 1 Thess. 5:5 

They are clothed with the armor of light. There is no darkness to be found in them. They are capable of fighting off the works of darkness when they are attacked. How quickly light dispels darkness. Rom. 13:12
 

THE CARE OF THE GARMENTS. 
Frequently, the label of a garment will give instructions as to the washing and care of the garment. Its that scratchy, itchy thing sewed to the clothing, at the base of the neck, that bothers one continuously. The garments of light also come with directions to maintain them properly. 

This care of them is most important for Jesus related it to His second coming, warning that we are to "watch and keep" our garments. He likens His coming to that of a thief coming at an hour when there is no one watching or on guard. Obviously, there will be those in that day who are unprepared for that great event, else there would be no need to warn us.  Rev. 16:15 

He gave a very special warning to the church at Sardis concerning His coming as a thief, for their reputation was far from the best. They were accounted to be a dead church. Spiritually, defunct. Rev. 3:2 

He called for them to repent, for the majority of them had soiled garments which were a hindrance to them. Rev. 3:3-4

The church is to know the signs of His coming. 1 Thess. 5:2-4 

However, the children of light will not be caught unawares of the day. They will read the signs of His coming and understand from them of His immediate approach. Paul said, "ye brethren are not in darkness that, that day, should overtake you as a thief." What benefit is light if it does not illuminate and reveal to the church coming events? 1 Thess. 5:4 

The true church will know. She is well equipped with the light of His Spirit.  




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ANOINTED EYES. 
An ancient remedy for sicknesses of the eyes called, collyrium, or a roll of ointment. Its claim was that when applied to the eye it would produce the ability to see clearly and all sickness of the eye would be cleared up. 

It is apparent why the Lord used this substance as an illustration for a spiritually blind church. They were blinded by the joys and pleasures of this life. His purpose was that they have their eyes opened to a degree where they could see their spiritual needs and necessities. Rev. 3:18
 

VISION. 
The ability to see is most precious. Spiritual vision is absolutely priceless. The whole future of the individual and the church depends on our ability to see things as the Lord does. That can only be accomplished by the anointing of the Holy Spirit. He was commissioned to come into the world to guide the church into all truth. Likewise He reveals the events, recorded in the Word, which are to transpire in the future. John 16:13 

Also, He was to receive the those things pertaining to the Lord Jesus and reveal them unto the church. John 16:14 

Only a heart and mind of humble nature can unlearn or leave teachings and doctrines which have been in the church for years. Some of which do not originate from the Word and the Spirit, but the wisdom of man. The abiding presence of the Holy Spirit, that heavenly anointing, is He who will teach all things to those who hunger and thirst after righteousness. He is the Spirit of Truth and cannot lie. 1 John 2:27
 

THAT YOU MAY BE ABLE TO SEE. 
We are flooded today with a multitude of directional signs. Our way through this life is constantly being effected by things which we see. Adds galore are constantly be aimed at us to do something or to buy some product. Signs are everywhere. That is particularly true concerning the end of the age. 

Our daily lives are conducted today in the very midst of the prophecies of the Word pertaining to the last days. Nevertheless many in the church world are ignoring these events and continue to live only for this world and not for that which is to come. As it was in the days of Noe So it is today. 

The church is living exactly as the scripture said it would, fully involved in the things that seem important in this life, while ignoring the prophetic utterance of the Lord Jesus that this would be a sign of the end. Mt. 24:37-39 

It is time for a change to be found in the church. We must lay hold of those things which benefit us Spiritually and let go of the beggarly elements of this world. It is time to seek the Lord.



 
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RICHES. Where has the seed fallen? Jesus in His parable of the sowing of the seed said, that some of it fell among thorns. There was nothing wrong with the seed but the foliage where it fell was not conducive to another crop. He likened it to those who are short lived Christians. They hear the Word, then go out and that new growth is choked with the cares, the riches and the pleasures of this life. Consequently, there is no harvest from the grain that was planted. So it is with the riches of this life. Luke 8:14 When the motivation of a person is for riches, they follow a perilous path. Consider the words of Paul. He said that those Whose drive is for the riches of this world, "fall into a temptation and a snare." In other words they be come ensnared in a strong desire for money and possessions. Furthermore, the are overtaken by foolish and hurtful lusts. Thus, causing them to be drowned in destruction and perdition. Strong words Paul. Yet, words which need to be carefully weighed and considered by all. 1 Tim. 6:9 A love for money
Is the very root of all evil. To strongly covet it can cause one to lose out in their faith in the Lord Jesus. Our attitude will determine our destiny.  
 

GREATER RICHES. There is a wealth which many of the richest of men have not obtained. Yet, many of the poorest of earth have found it and with finding it have a satisfaction, a peace, and a wealth that the richest man on earth does not have, for all his money. That is the inheritance which we have in the Lord Jesus Christ. It is termed, "the riches of His glory." Eph. 1:18 it is made known to us in many ways. The beginning is in our repentance. A Godly sorrow for our sin. Everyone is sorry when they are caught in a wrong doing, but there is a sorrow that causes us to confess to the Lord that we are sinners and need to be pardoned. It is here, that the riches of His great kindness, His ability to tolerate our attitude toward Him and His amazing patience is made manifest, awaiting the time of our turning to Him. Rom. 2:4 It is the intent and goal of the Lord to reveal in each individual who comes to Him, the "riches of His Glory." They are the vessels upon whom He has abundantly poured out of His great mercies. Their ultimate is the opportunity to share and to share alike in all the glory that has been bestowed upon Him. This is the status unto which the redeemed have been called and the eternal splendor of the saints which the Lord will bestow upon His very own. Called to glory. Rom. 9:23    



 
A PEOPLE FOR HIS NAME.
 
THE RICHES OF HIS GRACE. Paul writing to the Ephesians church wanted them to know and understand the true riches which are to be found in the Lord Jesus. What greater treasure could a person find than that of the abundance of grace that He has so freely manifest toward all sinners. All those who will come to Him in repentance. His grace reaches out in forgiveness for all our sin. Ps. 103:3 Paul, who found marvelous and glorious forgiveness considered himself to be the very chief of sinners. The is no question but what he felt that way, having persecuted the church as one who hated Christ. What a majestic change repentance and forgiveness of sin makes. 1 Tim. 1:5 In all actuality, none are greater sinners than any other. The Lord has concluded all under sin that He might have mercy upon us all. Gal. 3:22 His grand and gracious purpose is that He have the same great mercy and grace upon each one who comes to Him. Rom. 11:32
 
THE SOURCE OF STRENGTH. Once again, it is the RICHES OF HIS GLORY, which becomes the strength of the Spiritual man. The inner man, our true self. Unseen by human eye but well known by the Lord. That hidden man of the heart constantly needs refurbishing. In order for the Christian to live in true victory we need a constant flow of the Spirit of the Lord in our spirit nature. Our strength is in the power of the Holy Spirit. The word might, used by Paul here is the Greek word dunamis  or dynamite. That explosive, miraculous power which revives and refreshes the inner man. Eph. 3:16
 
THE RICHES OF HIS GLORY AIMED AT THE GENTILES. In so doing the Lord did not exclude those who had been His very own. These both are to be equally share holders in the blessed Spiritual economy of the Lord. A plan which started in the eternity past and will last throughout the eternity to come.
The plans of the Lord are not temporary, but eternal and everlasting. Rom. 9:23-24 His preparation was, that all mankind would benefit from His plan of salvation, for Christ died for all. 2 Cor. 5:15 None are to be excluded from His great and tremendous grace. Jesus tasted death for every man. If we accept Him, we are saved. If we reject Him, we are eternally lost. Every person makes their own choice. Heb. 2:9 It is understandable that Paul, having been called of the Lord to minister to the Gentiles would emphasize that fact that the same Spiritual benefits would be extended to them. Col. 1:27
       


 
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HOW GREAT IS IT? The availability of His glorious might and power is limitless. There is no measuring of His tremendous power. The beauty of it is, that it is directed toward His people.
Paul expressed it with the words, "exceeding greatness." Shall we play on words? It exceeds greatness by leaps and bounds. That  would make the fullness of His capabilities available to those who are His redeemed. Eph. 1:19 It is an impossibility to exceed His ability to perform great works. He is always capable of out performing our request and our thoughts according to His Divine power which is operative in us. The key is in having a strong and consistent contact with Him until His great power is resident within us. Eph. 3:20
 
WHAT HAS IT DONE? The stock answer would be everything. For with the Lord here are no impossibilities. In the particular verse which we have in mind His power is center on the death, burial and resurrection of the Lord Jesus. Death is inevitable.
It is an appointment that faces every person born into this world. Jesus was born to die. To be sacrificed as the Lamb of God. He thoroughly understood the will of His Father and the things that He would suffer in fulfilling that will. Nevertheless, He came into the world as scheduled and was crucified at the appointed time. Sustaining Him, was the knowledge of what would be accomplished by His death, that is, salvation for all. Also the assurance that He would be raised from the dead and be exalted once again to the throne of God. Heb. 12:2 This was the demonstration of the exceeding greatness of His power in overcoming death and being resurrected to life everlasting. The power to live and live eternally, the power or resurrection has now been delivered to His people. Eph. 1:20
 
JESUS EXALTED ON HIGH. His obedience returned to Him all of His pre-incarnate glory and majesty. A full and complete restoration was to be granted Jesus on His return to the heavenly realm. He was to be glorified with the enveloping presence and glory of the Father. Something which He had possessed before the creation of the world. John 17:5 When exactly did He lay aside the glory of the Father which had been His? He was as a Lamb slain from the foundation of the world. In the wisdom and foresight of the Lord the work of redemption was accomplished from the foundation of the world. All that remained was for it to be worked out. Rev. 13:8 Because the Lord saw the end from the beginning, the saved have had their names written in the book of life from the foundation of the world. Rev. 17:8 
 


 
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A KINGDOM TRANSFERED. A new people. Jesus came as the King, the ruler of His own people. They desperately needed Him. Amazingly, though they were looking for Him to come. They anticipated that their King would come and deliver them from the rule of Rome. They anticipated a restored kingdom like that in the days of David. Pathetically, when He came they rejected Him. John 1:11 In doing so they followed the prophetic statements concerning their Messiah. Isa. 53:3 All was not in vain by any means. Those who were willing to receive Him, both Jew and Gentile, were allotted power to become sons of God. The Lord Jesus initiated a new race. A people who believed on His name and the virtue and power to be found in His name. No longer did a persons natural birth determine their status with the Lord. Now, it is a spiritual birth that is necessary for entrance into the kingdom of the Lord. John 1:12-13
 
PLAIN SPEECH. Jesus took them back to the experience of Jacob with the rejected stone of Luz and how it had become the gateway to heaven as revealed to him. Mt. 21:42 The all important kingdom of God was removed from those to whom it had been promised and given to a people who live and act like citizens of the kingdom. Mt. 21:43 Jesus left no question as to what kingdom He was talking about for He stated that Abraham, Isaac and Jacob would be in that kingdom. Mt. 8:11 However, the unbelieving, the original citizens of that kingdom will be cast out into outer darkness. What a pity, when such a wonderful opportunity has been offered to them of becoming a part of the glorious, heavenly country. Mt. 8:12
 
THE NATION EXHIBITING THE FRUIT OF THE KINGDOM.
They Are the "chosen of the Lord." Chosen in Christ. Eph. 1:4 A whole nation of kings and priests serving the Lord in worship, adoration and praise. A people of holiness, without which no man will see the Lord. A nation distinguished for their fidelity and full hearted dedication to Him. Their deep spiritual experience is manifest by their consistent manifestation of His life in them. These are they who have come out of the darkness of the sin of this world and are now shining forth with the glorious light of the gospel of Christ Jesus. 1 Peter 2:9 The atmosphere of His kingdom is so powerful that it cannot be hidden when a person is living in it. His kingdom is not of his world but is of that which is everlasting and will never fade away.        



 
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EVIDENCE OF A NEW PERSON. The abandonment of the old nature. In this list, note the constant usage of the word "ALL," indicating a clean sweep of all that hinders one spiritually. The putting off of all malice. Being rid of that troublesome, wicked character which was our custom in the past. Shunning the desire to be crafty and deceive or trick someone into a situation where we are benefited. Hypocrisy, no longer practiced but now in all things being transparently truthful. Words, proper words, pure words are vital to our spiritual well being. The name of the Lord should never be use in a vain manner. Not even a corruption of His blessed name. Backbiting or defaming the character of another person is not only out of order but hardly edifying to the person speaking, nor to the unfortunate one hearing.  1 Peter 2:1 The innocence of babes is most certainly to be desired. Feeding on the basics of the Word as those needing milk for spiritual growth. Without the Word, there can be no growth.
1 Peter 2:2
 
THE BUILDING OF HIS HOUSE. The foundation of a building is of utmost importance. The higher the building the greater the need for a sturdier and deeper foundation. The amazing thing about the house of the Lord is, it is being constructed with a foundation stone that was rejected. From prophetic utterance to proclamation the stone is to be rejected by man. But God, has taken that which man refused as marred and made it to be the head of the corner. The weight of the building and the success of its weathering the storms, all resting upon this stone. Chosen by the Lord but rejected by men. The Psalmist prophesied. Ps. 18:22.The Apostle verified it. Acts 4:11 This is the doings of the Lord and is a marvelous message for those who feel rejected.
Even Jesus was rejected by His very own people.
Ps. 118:23
 
THE LORD LAID THE FOUNDATION. We may rest well assured that the foundation is a true and most worthy groundwork. True to form, it was a foundation that was laid in Zion. Isa. 28:16 Jesus came to His own and His own would not receive Him. He was to be a refuge, a sanctuary to both Israel and Judah. While at the same time, being a stone over which they would stumble. A rock that was offensive to them. While He was to be everything to them, in their religious zeal they completely missed the mark and took umbrage to Him. Even today the same attitude is found among religious leaders, concerning His Deity and Godhood. The end to those who cast Him aside and minimize His person is total loss. Isa. 8:14-15         



 
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THE STONE CHOSEN OF GOD. 1 PET. 2:4 Identified as the servant of the Lord. One who not only would serve the Lord but mankind as well. It is absolutely astonishing to see the servant nature of the Lord Jesus when His origin and background is considered. It should be, and is extremely humbling, to think that one so great as Jesus would commit Himself to the status of a servant. He was, is and always will be the elect, the chosen of the Father. The anointing of the Spirit was predominate in His life. It was not until He was baptized in the Spirit that His ministry was launched. An important section of that work was to present justice to the Gentiles. Isa. 42:1 In all that He was to do and did, the Father was well pleased with Him. Mt. 12:18
 
THE MOST PRECIOUS STONE. To the Father there was nothing of greater value that He who had been His eternal friend and companion. It is impossible for us to feel or know the depths of the emotions which were involved when the "most precious" was crucified. For the one and only time, in all of time and eternity, the Father forsook the Lord Jesus. Provoking the cry from the lips of Jesus, My God, My God, why hast thou forsaken me." Mt. 15:34 The Father had to turn His back and deserted that which was most precious to Him. What a tremendous price was paid for our salvation. Only those who believe in the transaction of Calvary find the true source of life everlasting. 1 Pet. 2:6
 
THE STONE LAID IN SION. True to form. The first opportunity followed the plan of the Lord as laid out in the scriptures. To the Jew first, but not to them alone, to the Greek or the Gentile also. Rom. 1:16 He came to His own. Because they rejected Him, He then gave power to all who would receive Him to become sons of God. John 1:11-12 The building is founded on the apostles and prophets, the New and the Old Testaments. The witness and testimony given to us by these men of the Lord. Many of whom sacrificed their lives for what they believed and spoke to the people. Eph. 2:20 The building is comprised of lively stones, Christians of active faith, alive and progressing in their spiritual growth. A people of absolute holiness and purity of heart, mind and spirit. They have the character, of the Lord as it is spelled out in the Word of the Lord. They are joined to Him and are compatible with Him. Doing His will in all things. His standard is very high but not unattainable if we commit ourselves to Him.
    


 
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LIVING STONES. Most often we think of stones as being something solid, hard and not likely to change. The lining stones used in the construction of the house of the Lord are just the opposite. They are pliable, and subject of change and constant growth. The house of the Lord is a one of a kind building. The material used in its construction is that of an everlasting sort. Its stones are people who have been saved by the blood of Christ and filled with the Spirit. 1 Pet. 2:5 It must be taken into account that this is the temple of the living Lord.
It is a structure built according to his qualifications. He is both architect and builder. Not only that, He is the inspector. He will live in this temple. Filling every nook and cranny with the glory of His presence. It is His dwelling place and He has every right to enforce His views on the stones which are used in it construction. 2 Cor. 6:16
 
A SPIRITUAL HOUSE. A building with such a title has to live up to its reputation, its designation, It will house not only the Holy Spirit but the very fullness of the Lord Himself. Even now the glorious blessing of the Lord is present with His people. He has already blessed us with spiritual blessing which come from the heavenly, from the hand of the Lord Jesus. Eph. 1:3 The priceless unity which is to be found in the Godhead will also be demonstrated in this spiritual structure. Its stones are joined one to the other, fitly framed, and rightly organized into an eternal, spiritual, united building. We take note that these stones are most unique. Inasmuch as they are living stones it would be anticipated that they would grow. That is exactly the process which the Lord is using in the preparation of the material for His temple. Eph. 2:21 In Christ, and through the Holy Spirit He is blending the Spiritual life of those who will submit to His divine leadership, into that marvelous palace where His presence will dwell forever. Eph. 2:22
 
THE TEMPLE OF HOLINESS. Serviced by a priesthood of holiness. There will never be found any impurity of any sort in the eternal temple of the Lord. This is His temple and as the God of holiness he will occupy and fill it with His glory. His very name is HOLY. Isa. 57:15 His name makes manifest the atmosphere of whole building and its entire structure. There is no marvel that the four living ones before the throne cry out a threefold message of holiness when magnifying the Lord. He is thrice Holy. Father, Son and Spirit. Rev. 4:8
      


 
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THE PRIESTHOOD OF HOLINESS. A Holy God desires and will have a leadership of holiness. A holy leadership will produce a body of believers who are holy. Holiness indicates that which is pure, morally blameless or set apart.  The command of the Lord is easily understandable, He said, "Be ye holy; for I am holy." 1 Pet. 1:16 Seed will bring forth the same fruit or plant from which it was taken. If we are the seed of the Lord, then, surely we will bear His likeness in all of His holiness. Give strong heed to the exhortation of Peter when he said, "as He who called you is holy, so be ye in all conversation, (or conduct)." 1 Pet. 2:5 Not only did the Lord in His foreknowledge choose the redeemed, in Christ. He designated their standard of living even from eternity. His chosen will fit the pattern which He established. They are to be a people of holiness and that of such a high degree that they are to be blameless. His calling to His own is a calling of holiness unto the Lord. Eph. 1:4
 
COMPROMISE OR HOLINESS? The call of the Spirit of the Lord is to yield ourselves to the Lord. To do so with the same abandonment with which we once sought after the pleasures of sin. That we might become true servants of the Lord, unto righteousness and holiness. Rom. 6:19 The end time, true church will be a people whose hearts are established "unblameable in holiness." 1 Thess. 3:13 Under the Law every act of worship had to have had the seal and stamp of holiness upon it. How much more under the New Testament economy. The people of the Lord are called upon to present themselves as a living sacrifice unto the Lord. In true holiness that the offering might be received and approved of the Lord. When the Lord is as wonderful as He is, it is but reasonable, logikos, Greek, logical to perform such a total surrender to Him. Rom. 12:1
 
CHASTISEMENT, LEADING TO HOLINESS. Correction is a sign of love. The love of the Lord toward the person being chastised is evident by the very fact that He is taking time to show them their erroneous ways. Heb. 12:6 It is an evidence of sonship, of belonging to the family of the Lord. Heb. 12:7 The purpose of Divine chastening is to produce a church of which it may be said that they are "partakers of His holiness." Heb. 12:10 He will have a glorious church, without spot, wrinkle, blemish or anything that would even appear to be sinful. It is the perfected Bride of Ephesians five. His will shall be fulfilled.   


 
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A CHANGE. A strange and drastic illustrated sermon lived out before the kings of Judah and Israel. They had become a divided nation but the situation was the same in both of the kingdoms. They had departed from the LORD or Jehovah. Hosea 1:1-2 It is a warning to them of judgmental events to come. It’s prophecy even reaches to the end of the age. It is the message of the old order and a new and faithful people. Peter presents a people made up of all nations who have been the benefactors of the mercy and grace of the Lord. They are the true nation of the Lord. They are that which is eternal and heavenly. 1 Pet. 2:10
 
AN OBEDIENT PROPHET WITH A DIFFICULT TASK. The prophet Hosea whose name means, deliverer, or salvation, was assigned a most difficult task. Here was a prophet of Jehovah, it is very apparent that he had a good contact with the Lord and a man of high standards. The act of whoredom or adultery committed by his wife could have been either physical or spiritual. Spiritually, she would have been an idolater. For that was the condition of both Judah and Israel. Even so, for a true worshiper of Jehovah the task was not to be an easy one. The marriage of a believer with an unbeliever can produce great difficulties and often ends in divorce. 2 Cor. 6:14-16 The people of the Lord must be careful in the choices they make.
 
NAMES. The names of the Bible show the prophetic touch which was a part of the life of Bible characters. The prophecies could be very personal, indicating the life style of the individual. Or their names could be very general and declare future events. For instance, certainly one  of the most interesting was the name given to Methuselah, meaning, in the year of his death the flood will come. Don’t like your name. How would you like a name that every time someone used it, it reminded them of impending judgment. The woman’s name was Gomer, finished or complete. The patience of the Lord was about to end with His backslidden people. JFB, suggests that Gomer was totally given up to sensuality and derives it from her fathers name. Her fathers name was Diblaim, double cakes, some say of grapes, others of figs. The double layered cake reminds us that the end of the age is the era of the double portion. Not only of the early and the latter rain in one month, i.e. great revival. There is also a double portion of wickedness and ungodliness which will break forth on this world. Jer. 16:18   






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THERE SHALL BE. 
Positive and powerful words, especially when uttered by a prophet who is speaking directly from the Lord. There shall be a time of trouble. Dan. 12:1 

This time of trouble is of three and one half years duration. It is the last half of Daniels seventy week prophecy. The first half of that seventieth week is history. It was fulfilled by the three and one half year ministry of the Lord Jesus. Jesus came to minister to His own people, the Jews of that day. John 1:11 

He came to the lost sheep of Israel. Mt. 15:24 

Because of their rejection of the Messiah, Paul stated that they had judged themselves to be unworthy of everlasting life, therefore he and Barnabas were taking the gospel to the Gentiles. Acts 13:48 

Serious consequences for having rejected the One who had come particularly for them. Acts 13:46


THE COVENANT OF SALVATION BY BLOOD. 
Jesus came not only to covenant with His people. He is the covenant. One week, or seven years were given to the people of Israel wherein they were to accept or reject the true covenant. 

KEY WORDS. "In the midst of the week." Dan. 9:26 

The only week remaining, the seventieth week. It is divided into two sections. The first half, the life of Christ. The last half, the great tribulation period. When Jesus died, sacrifice and oblations ceased, as far as the Lord was concerned. In rending the temple veil He threw the most sacred portion of the temple wide open. Mt. 27:50-51 

It was an act of God and was to make known the ending of temple worship. Today and forever more all animal sacrifice is obnoxious to the Lord. It is a direct insult to Him. Consider Isa. 66:3 

There is only one offering acceptable to Him. That is the once for all sacrifice of the Lord Jesus. Heb. 10:10 

His one sacrifice is an eternal sacrifice and will never be replaced by another. Heb. 10:12


THE TRUE, ETERNAL TEMPLE. 
The Lord is building His temple. His temple is an eternal temple. It is the only temple that He will recognize or bless. It is a spiritual house, constructed of living stones, who are the redeemed of the Lord. 1 Pet. 2:5

There is only one real and everlasting foundation upon which the Lord will build and that is the Lord Jesus. There is no other foundation for any building of worship. 1 Cor. 3:11 

Neither now, nor in the future will the Lord ever dwell in any temple built by the hands and labors of men. Acts 7:48 

The only temple in God’s future is the Bride of Christ, which is the New Jerusalem. Rev. 21:2     




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I WILL. 
When spoken by the Lord we may rest assured that His purpose will be accomplished just as He has stated. In relationship to the subject, Paul, made a strong and definite statement that is the ultimate of the whole plan of salvation. That is, concerning the attitude of the Lord toward His people. He calls them "the temple of the living God." Which is the true temple, the spiritual, the everlasting dwelling place of the Lord God. 

He will never recognize another and manifest His presence in it as He did in times past. The Lord never reverts to the old or past. He presses on to that which He is building and cannot be replaced by any structure built by and race of men. 

In exercising His will, He has said, "I will dwell in them." Not it, referring to a physical building but THEM. Obviously a group of individuals built together in Christ. Furthermore, it is His will to "walk," the course of this life in them. Living and manifesting the very life of the Lord through them to the world. 

The third "I will" that we find here is that of the Lord being "their God." Not a building, but a living, breathing people who have deep and loving desire to know the Lord in the fullness of His nature. His expectation will be consummated in them for they will "be His people." 

Not a people afar off but living His life daily in this present world. A people who are totally consecrated to Him, loving Him with their whole being. 2 Cor. 6:16


FOR THE WHOSOEVER. 
It must be remembered that this is the time for the entire population of the earth to come to Christ. None are excluded. The bride of Christ will be comprised of the redeemed from every nation and tribe who have been saved by the blood of the Lamb of God, the Lord Jesus. 

The temple which the Lord is building is founded upon the apostles and the prophets, or the Word of the Lord which they represent. Jesus Christ being the chief corner stone. This conveys to us the message of a New Testament, living, vital temple. Eph. 2:20 

It is to be a temple of His holiness manifest in His people. Brought together and unified by spiritual growth until it reaches maturity or perfection. An organism created by the Lord Jesus for His glory and majesty to be displayed in them, forever and forever. Eph. 3:10 

They will be a people, though many, joined, compacted, built together into a perfect unit and made to be one in Christ, for the explicit purpose of being the habitation of the Lord. Eph. 2:21-22 

He has it recorded on His schedule. His plans are complete. He is already working and will end up with the most gorgeous temple of time or eternity.



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A DIVINE RELATIONSHIP. 
The Lord declared His marital affiliation with Israel by stating that He was married to them. Then He rebuked them for their lack of spiritual standing. He called them, "backsliding children." Jer. 3:15 

A condition from which he would rescue some of them, that is, one of a city and two of a family and bring them into His holy hill, Zion. Most definitely a prophecy that went far beyond the rebuilding of Jerusalem, which even at that time was in the planning stages of the Lord. 

Their problem was that they had forsaken the Lord and gone their own way, and were doing their own thing. There was no fear or reverence toward the Lord among them. Therefore self condemnation was rampant for they had been taught the true ways of they Lord. To him that knoweth to do good and doeth it not, to him it is sin. James 4:17 

They were knowledgeable but did not act on that knowledge. 


THE PROMISE OF THE LORD. 
He said that He would give them pastors, shepherds, leaders who have the same heart as that of the Lord. A heart of compassion, love and care in the same measure as that which is possessed by the Lord. People who are in the possession of the Spirit of the Lord. 

They are filled with His compassion. Were it necessary, they would give their lives for the sheep. They are men of deep spiritual understanding and have a burning desire to pass on to the flock their knowledge of the Lord and His Word. They feed the sheep that they might grow in the wisdom and knowledge of the Lord. Jer. 3:15


A CHANGE IN MANNER OF WORSHIP. 
The old laid aside and not to be exercised again. The very heart, the core, the center piece, the ark of the covenant no longer referred to as the dwelling place and manifestation of the glory of the Lord. As a matter of fact it was never to come to mind again. It is to be totally forgotten. 

Why? Because now we have the real ark of the covenant, the mercy seat, the Lord Jesus. The past is not to be restored, remember to do so is to insult the Lord Jesus. The worship of the tabernacle and Solomon’s temple is nullified and void. Jer. 3:16 

We come now to the tabernacle built by Christ, which is far greater, (actually no comparison). To the perfected temple, His Bride. A building not constructed by the hands of man but gathered together, in Christ, by the Spirit and made perfect with all the perfection's of the Lord Himself. Heb. 9:11 



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THE THRONE OF THE LORD. 
They shall call Jerusalem the throne of the Lord. Jer. 3:17 

The Lord asked us a question. Where is His house and the place of His rest? Modern day Jerusalem, hardly. His throne is where He is and that is in heaven. Earth is but His footstool. So what will we build to honor and commemorate Him. All of our suggestions that are of the earth, earthy are but boring to Him. He has made all these things. They are not new, living or the least bit exciting to Him. 

Then He does define for us that which thrills His heart and spirit. This is His description of the man who draws His attention. His is poor, afflicted, humble and lowly. Sounds like a description of Jesus, does it not? Also, the contrite, the broken of heart, the dejected of spirit. 

Thus we have a perfect picture of the sinner who so desperately needs the Lord. The Lord loves sinners and is delighted to forgive them when the come humbly to Him. Isa. 66:1-2


THE REAL JERUSALEM. 
The city of the Most High. The true, the one and only holy city of the Lord. It is seen by John as a Bride with all the frills of the Lord bestowed upon that glorious, heavenly body of Christ, that is, His church. Rev. 21:2 

This is not a renovation of that which is the current city of Jerusalem. This is a Spiritual city built in accordance to the plans of the heavenly architect, the architect of all architects. Only one person could plan and build this city. It is unique among all cities, for there has never been one like it. 

The entire city is the tabernacle, the dwelling place, the habitation of the Lord. It is the city where the whole of its population is in constant fellowship and relationship with the Lord. Rev. 21:3 She is the bride of the Lamb. 


HIS DESIRE FULLY ACCOMPLISHED. 
She is the whole reason for the plan of salvation. She is the ultimate, the consummate work of the Lord. A flawless and holy product of the redemptive power of the blood of Christ. She is Holy. The very pinnacle of purity and righteousness. She is as holy as her Lord and redeemer. 

Please note, that she descends out of heaven. She is a product of heaven. Rev. 21:10 

There is no temple there for the Lord God Almighty and the Lamb are not only its temple of worship, they are also that which is to be worshipped. Rev 21:22 

There will be no sun or moon to lighten that city for the same Lord God Almighty and the Lamb will lighten every nook and cranny with their eternal glory. The God who is light will shine with the fullness of His brilliancy in that eternal city. Rev. 21:23 

It is the city of the endless day. There will positively never be any darkness of any kind in that city of the light of the Lord. Rev. 21:25 

Just think of living in eternal Sonshine. A city occupied only by those whose names have been written in the Lamb's book of life. No sin or wickedness will ever be found in the city of the Lord. Rev. 21:27 

It is His city and will be a work of beauty exceeding all that the word can possibly imply. In creating that which is and that which is to come we may rest assured that all that He has made and will make is beautiful beyond description. Man and sin have spoiled the earth, even so there are still areas of great beauty. Even so, none of this can compare to that which is everlasting and eternal. Ecc. 3:11      



A PEOPLE FOR HIS NAME.  79

O JERUSALEM, JERUSALEM. 
Jesus had just released the tongue lashing of the ages upon the leadership of Jerusalem when in great compassion, empathy and love He cried out to Jerusalem. What an indictment Jesus launched against the city and its inhabitants. 

Their attitude was that we would not have behaved as our fathers. But Jesus said, "ye are the children of your fathers." You bear witness that you are the children of your fathers. Then Jesus made a statement that is awesome, "Fill up the measure of your fathers." In other words complete the work which they started. 

There were yet to be others who would come and they would treat them in the same manner as their fathers had done to the prophets whom the Lord had sent to them. Jesus called them a generation of snakes and vipers How could they possibly escape the damnation of hell. Mat. 23:30-33 

This was their history and their future, except they repent.


THEIR FUTURE. 
Jesus proclaimed that He would send prophets, wise men and scribes to them. These men would also be persecuted and some killed, even as their fathers did. In so doing, the responsibility of all righteous blood which had been shed upon the earth was to come on them. 

Accompanying the cry of O Jerusalem, Jerusalem was a further charge against them concerning their treatment of those who had come to them for their very own benefit. Men who had brought them the Word of the Lord. His personal and present love, His longing for them was also rejected. He would have gathered them tenderly and lovingly under His wings but they refused His every offer. Mat. 23:34-37


HIS PRONOUNCED JUDGEMENT. 
"Your house is left unto you desolate." Mat. 23:38 

The secular items of their religion, including the temple were destroyed in 90 A.D. when Jerusalem was invaded and destroyed. All temple sacrifices were deserted and nullified with the once for all sacrifice of the Lord Jesus. Heb. 10:10 

The Lord will never again recognize any other sacrifice. Isa. 66:3 

A rebuilt temple and restored sacrifices are an abomination to the Lord. This does not eliminate a race of people from the salvation of the Lord. We stand before Him as individuals and not as even a family, let alone as a nation. Jesus died for all. 

The whosoever is invited to come to Him and know Him in an equally measure, as all others. His emphasis today is not on the old but on that person who is a new creation in Christ Jesus. He is developing building a New Jerusalem. 
 


A PEOPLE FOR HIS NAME.  80

SHADOW, OR IMAGE CASTING THE SHADOW? 
Which is the choice of the Lord for His people. That plan which Moses received on the mountain was but the shadow of the real and everlasting tabernacle of heaven. The tabernacle in the wilderness was but a reflection, a copy of that which the Lord has ordained to be eternal. Heb. 8:5 

Which would the Lord prefer? Which would we prefer, the original or the copy? The answer is obvious. We seek that which is real and which will not pass away. The first covenant, the works of the Law, was deemed faulty. The Lord Himself was the judge. Because of its failures it was disannulled. Because of its weakness and unprofitableness. The Law could bring nothing nor any person into perfection. Heb. 7:18-19    


A CHANGE MADE. 
Change is not easy. Human beings are creatures of habit. Once we have established a habitual way of doing things it is not easy to change. They were angry with Stephen because he presented the truth to them and that involved a change of customs, religion and manner of worship, something which they were not about to do. Acts 6:14 

Therefore, they killed him by stoning, which was exactly as Jesus had prophesied. Had they been willing to change, they would have found the real thing and not have stayed with the shadow. Change when for the better is greatly beneficial. In this case it would have given them eternal life, in Christ Jesus.


THAT WHICH IS BETTER. 
The imperfections of the Law are covered in the establishing of a better covenant, one which is far stronger, more effective and most assuredly far more splendid. The hope, the assurance that we find in the New Testament, the New Covenant causes us to come into the presence of the Lord, individually. Perfection is to be established in that which is better. Heb. 7:19 

The better, and there will not be another, is established by blood. The perfect sacrifice of the Lord Jesus on the cross is its foundation. Therefore, Jesus has been made the surety, the guarantee, that there is a final and better covenant that has been signed and sealed. Heb. 7:22 

Jesus is the only mediator, the intercessor, the go between. It is He who has brought into existence that which is the very best. He is the Covenant and is responsible for its revelation and fulfillment in our lives. This current Covenant is an established, eternal Covenant. It is built on promises which are backed by the Lord God Almighty. They cannot be broken or destroyed. Heb. 8:6       



A PEOPLE FOR HIS NAME.  81

HOW GREAT IS JESUS? 
He is absolutely the greatest. He is fully trustworthy. He is the very essence of love and compassion. He is touched by the feeling of our infirmities. Salvation, deliverance, healing and assurance are to be found in His name. Jesus stated that He was greater than Jonas who had a whole city repent at his message. Mt. 12:41 

The Queen of  Sheba traveled far to confront Solomon with difficult questions. Now wisdom itself has come, in Jesus, and they defy and ridicule Him. Lk. 11:31 

He is better, more powerful, more wonderful than any man or angel. He is eternal, angels are created. Surely one would prefer His presence, protection and guidance above that of angels. 

Angels are like us, they can sin and fall. He is sinless and cannot fall. They are limited in their capabilities. He has all power in heaven and earth. He has promised never to leave us nor forsake us. 

Yes, Jesus is better than angels, and has a much more excellent name than angels. Also a much more excellent reputation. Heb. 1:4 

Some are going too far in the worship, adoration and dependency on angels. It is better to place full trust in the one who is the creator of angels than the created angels. Angels are not the Son of God. They are commanded to worship Jesus. Heb. 1:5-6


THE NECESSITY OF BLOOD. 
The tabernacle, the furnishings and the utensils of that which was a shadow, under the Law, were all sanctified and dedicated by blood. If there was to be any remission or cleansing from sin it had to be by the sacrifice of the blood of an animal. For without the shedding of blood there can be no remission, no pardon, no deliverance from sin, in the sight of the Lord. Therefore, Jesus is the mediator of the new covenant, the better covenant, the only one recognized and accepted by the Lord. Heb. 12:26 

The ministry of the Lord Jesus in redemption by blood is the only ministry of excellence. It is faultless and is the key to eternal life. He is everything and all that is needed to inherit everlasting life. He established the covenant. He is the offering of the covenant. He is the only negotiator between the Lord and man. All that He negotiated in establishing the new covenant speaks of perfection and completeness. Heb. 8:6 

That which was impossible under the old testament, the Law, is now made possible under the new. Heb. 10:4 

The shed blood of the Lord Jesus is the only blood of forgiveness. The old or the first testament is entirely dependent on the new for the salvation of those old testament saints. Without the blood of Christ, none could be saved. Heb. 9:15     
 


A PEOPLE FOR HIS NAME.  82

THE REMOVAL OF THE FIRST, THE OLD COVENANT. 
The old was taken away, that the new or the second might become well established. The Greek word, anaireo (taken away), has the connotation of a violent act. It means to abolish, to finish off. The word is used in the scriptures in referrence to killing or murder. It conveys to us the thoroughness of bringing the first to a sudden, complete, crashing halt. Heb. 10:9   


CHRIST, THE CONCLUSION OF THE LAW. 
Jesus came to satisfy the demand of the Law for a life of righteousness. What the Law could not do in a work of righteousness is now accomplished in the Lord Jesus, who is our righteousness. The Law was declared annulled because it was unprofitable and weak. It brought nothing to perfection. Faith in Christ has just the opposite effect when His followers are dedicated to Him. Heb. 7:18-19 

He came to satisfy the holiness of life found in the Law, but impossible to live through the Law. Mat. 5:17 

The weakness of the Law is flesh, the sinful human nature. The strength of the Law, its righteousness, is now carried out in the lives of those who walk according to the Word and the Spirit of the Lord. It is a spiritual manifestation seen in the life of the believer. We do not live the life, Jesus lives it in us. Rom. 8:3-4 


THE PROMISE OF A NEW COVENANT. 
Promises directed toward both houses, Israel and Judah. Having found fault with the first or the old covenant, the Lord presents another, a new covenant. Heb. 8:8, Jer. 31:31 

Note, Jeremiah stated that the two nations had broken the covenant which He had given them when He led them out of Egypt. In His desire to be close to them the Lord considered Himself married to them. Jer. 31:32 

The new covenant was to be an inward work of grace. The Lord was to write his Law on the hearts of those who would follow Him. Under such a beautiful association He was to be their God, to the exclusion of all others. They were to be His people, in reality and truth. When Jesus commissioned the twelve to go minister to the people He gave them explicit command to go only to the lost sheep of Israel. Mat. 10:5-6 

Concerning His own ministry He said, "I am not sent but unto the lost sheep of the house Israel." Mat. 15:24 

In giving that statement He made manifest the heart of the living God. To Him they all had gone astray. Now, their Messiah, their salvation had come to them in the person of the Son of God, the Lord Jesus. They were intrigued by His ministry and miracles but missed the greatest gift of all. Their redemption in Christ.



A PEOPLE FOR HIS NAME.  83

JUSTIFICATION THROUGH CHRIST. 
This is an accomplishment  which the Law could not perform. The believer, in the Lord Jesus is given an assurance that they are justified before the Lord. Where the Law failed to justify, because it was dependent on the works of men, the grace of the Lord Jesus has produced full, complete justification. Acts 13:39 

The Law was given to identify sin. It indeed make sin to be exceedingly sinful without alleviating the pain and anguish of the sinner over his sin. The Law produces guilt and condemnation whereby all stand before the Lord in their sinful condition. Justification is not possible under the Law. The righteousness demanded by the Law can only be found by faith in the Lord Jesus. It is His righteousness imparted to us which enables us to manifest the righteousness of faith. Jesus satisfied the demands of the Law for us that He might make known the life of Christ in His people. Rom. 3:20-22


THE LAW, THE SCHOOLMASTER. 
The teacher is important. What is taught is vital. The Law in its entirety foreshadowed Christ and His work of salvation. Its directions for life, its sacrifices, the buildings built and used for worship, all foretell of various aspects of the work and purpose of life which is found in the ministry of the Lord Jesus. Gal. 3:24 

Once we have received Christ as saviour and redeemer, we are no longer under the tutorship of the schoolmaster, providing we had been in the past. All now walk by faith, no longer by the works of the Law. Faith in the Lord Jesus elevates the believer to the status of a child of God. All that divides is done away with. All are now one in Christ. Race, status in life, gender all have no place in the body of Christ. We are unified and made to be one in the Lord Jesus Christ. Gal. 3:25-28 

Being released from the watchful eye and voice of the schoolmaster does not mean the end of being taught. The Word of the Lord is inexhaustible. No one has yet come to a full and complete comprehension of its teachings. It is a living book. It is the revelation of all that the Lord wants us to understand about Him, in the here and now. So Paul admonished his spiritual son Timothy, and that word is passed on to us, study. 

Study the Lord, Study the Word, for He has made Himself known in His Word. 2 Tim. 2:15 

The natural wisdom of man is for this world. The wisdom and understanding of the Lord is everlasting. In studying the Word we are handling things which are Godly, eternal and heavenly. Time spent in the study of the Word is time well spent. 
 





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