C J McKnight - Psalms Dear Berean: Greetings in the lovely name of our Lord Jesus Christ. I am about to embark on a series of studies in which I hope to use 'plain language'. It is not an easy task but one that I feel is necessary for the body of Christ. These are the last days and the full revelation of the plan of the Lord for His church must be made known. Teaching in a class is one thing. What is taught, usually is retained in the class or at least in a close circle of friends. The Internet is something else. It is like shooting in the dark. Where will it land? Where will it go? At my age, I have no reputation to protect, I have nothing to lose. No one will turn me down for a meeting as I will not be pounding on their door. Even if what is presented is rejected and ridiculed, it does not matter. I am impressed that it is time to look at and embrace, openly the plan of the Lord. I do request your prayers and consideration as these studies are presented. To some it may be shockingly new, to others it may be old hat. I covet your prayers. Incidentally the Internet is a great joy to me. I love preparing these studies. I spend about four hours every morning preparing them. They are fresh. I love you in Christ, prayerfully yours, C. Joe McKnight PSALM FORTY-FIVE 1 A PSALM WRITTEN TO CELEBRATE THE KINGS MARRIAGE. It is composed more in a prophetic vein than in reference to an earthly king. The marriage of Christ and His bride are most certainly the theme that is found in its verses. It was addressed to the Chief Musician upon Shoshannim. Shuwshan {Heb}, translated lilies {from its whiteness, or purity} or trumpets, both of which are of rich significance. CONSIDER THE LILIES. Take time to discover the increase and advancement of the lilies. They neither labor nor spin, yet, their beauty far surpasses the royal clothing worn be Solomon. The fullness of the glory and the splendor of the Almighty is reserved for His bride. Lk. 12:27 Lilies were part of the decoration of the brazen laver in Solomon's temple. It is of interest because the laver held two thousand baths. Representing the two thousand years of the Gospel dispensation. 1Ki. 7:26 It is also said that is held three thousand baths. 2 Chr. 4:5 The three thousand baths represent the Sabbath of one thousand years, or the millennium. This is one of the so called discrepancies of the Bible that is pointed out by atheists. There is no conflict or mistake with these two different numbers. The difference is that with the two thousand baths the laver was two-thirds full. When filled to the full it held three thousand baths. The full laver represents the time, the millennium, when the glory of the Lord shall cover the earth as the waters now cover the sea. Hab. 2:14 THE ASSOCIATION OF LILIES WITH ROMANCE BETWEEN THE BRIDE AND THE BRIDEGROOM. There is mutual appreciation and a feeling of belonging to each other. I am his and he is mine. He is as a shepherd among his sheep. He browses or feeds and cares for them in his garden. SOS. 6:3 He is gathering the lilies of his garden. He will unify his body, his bride and gather them unto himself. SOS. 6:2 In the description of the bridegroom given by the bride she makes mention that his lips are as lilies. The Hebrew word used here can mean language, speech or talk. The WORD is the joy and rejoicing of his bride. To hear his voice is the desire of his bride. SOS. 5:13 The Proverbs declare Pr. 16:21b Myrrh was one of the substances used in the holy anointing oil because of its sweet smell. When we love Him His word is a sweet smelling fragrance to us. In his description of the bride, her waist is described as a mound of wheat. Wheat is the harvest of the feast of Pentecost. Each stalk of wheat would bear multiple grains. A mound would be a great number. This mound, or heap of wheat is surrounded by lilies. SOS. 7:2 NIV. Are we looking at the woman of Revelation twelve? PSALM FORTY-FIVE 2 A PSALM WRITTEN TO BE SUNG BY THE KORATHITES. This family was called upon to be a part of the singers preceding the army with songs and praise. 2 Chr. 20:19-22 They were also gatekeepers. Stationed in the . 1 Chr. 9:18 The King of kings comes form the East and will enter the Eastern gate. Eze. 41:2-3 It is a Maschil Psalm or one giving instructions. Its teaching is to be considered seriously. This is the fourth of thirteen Maschil Psalms written by the sons of Korah. It is also given the title of a song of loves, that is of significant loves. IT WAS WRITTEN BY ONE WHOSE HEART WAS GREATLY STIRRED. A heart, seat of emotions, that was inditing, to bubble up, to overflow or gush up. Any one who has experienced the blessing of the Lord will well understand the depth and power of the feelings expressed by the psalmist. A heart moved in this fashion would be filled with good, beautiful, the best kind of thoughts. The matter or theme is one of love and marriage. It is translated, a noble theme in the NIV. It is a message filled with promises to the Bride. Ps. 45:1 Matter, may also be translated . Any person who has found the depth of the Word of God will . They will find it to be the joy and delight of their heart and will greatly rejoice in it. Especially so, when they realize that they are privileged to bear the name of the LORD God Almighty . Jer. 15:16 A COMPOSITION OF LOVE AND APPRECIATION. Expressions of a heart filled and overwhelmed with love for their beloved. These verses are to be presented to the king. The inspired, anointed tongue prepared and eager to exalt their lover and king. Ps. 45:1 The tongue anointed by the Holy Spirit has a message to convey to the world. It declares His righteousness and utters praise unto Him, all day long. Ps. 35:28 The voice of the Spirit is recognizable because He will always speak within the confines of the WORD of the Lord. 2 Sam. 23:2 The Spirit anoints us to speak the WORD. Every prophecy, every interpretation must be able to stand the scrutiny of the WORD. When it does not agree with the Word it is darkness, it is not a word of light. Isa. 8:20 The Bereans set an example for they received the Word with great eagerness, with open minds. Therefore they proved themselves to be of a better and higher class, they were more noble. Added to that, they searched for themselves, every day the things that Paul declared to them. They were not blind followers of the blind. But were a people having a great desire to know and embrace the truth. Acts 17:11 Paul encouraged his son, in the gospel, to study that he might be acceptable to the Lord. A knowledge of the Word is essential to our relationship with the Lord. The Lord is revealed in His Word. To present or expound on the Word requires a time of delving into the Word. 2 Tim. 2:15 The Lord grant that the words of our hearts and mouths be that which is founded in the truth of the Word. PSALM FORTY-FIVE 3 THE PEN OF AN EXCELLENT SCRIBE. The pen {sidelong stroke or sweeping}, written in bold and elegant manner. After all it is a message penned for the King. Written by one skillful in penmanship. Thank the Lord for the written Word whereby we may find and come to know the Lord Jesus. His story, His mighty works, His coming as the savior of the world are all recorded in the volume of the book. Heb. 10:7 ADDRESSED TO THE ONE WHO IS THE MOST EXCELLENT OF MEN. The fairest of all men, none will ever compare to Him. To be fair can also meant to be . Ps.45:2 We see His brightness and glory on the Mountain of transfiguration where He was seen in His eternal majesty and power. His face shone as the sun. His garments became white like light and glistened with the glory of God. His brightness, His shining is the visible beauty that is found in Him. Mt.17:2 Mk.9:2-3 After six days, a day with the Lord is as a thousand years. 2 Pet. 3:8 Six days amount to six thousand years. We are coming to the end of the six thousand. We shall soon see Him in all of His beauty and glory. There is a great contrast between the view of this writer and Isaiah. Isaiah beheld Him when He came as the Lamb of God. No beauty or outstanding appearance, no majesty or facial features that would cause one to desire Him. Isa. 53:2 Jesus must have been a very common man. One who possessed no physical feature that would call attention to Him. HOW BEAUTIFUL THE FEET. We look at His face. We see His eyes. The majesty of the Most High now rests upon Him. As a Bridegroom He is most glorious. Now the beauty of His feet is proclaimed because they have brought the Gospel, the good news. Rom. 10:15 The sick, the lame, the blind and maimed were cast down at His feet and He healed them. Mat. 15:30 The disciples fell at His feet and held Him as they worshipped the risen Lord. Mt. 28:9 Many came to the feet of Jesus during His ministry and there found relief from their situations. Today, the Bride described Him beautifully. Her lover radiant, dazzling and ruddy. Conspicuous and outstanding among men. The glow of His countenance is greater than gold. His hair bushy, curly and dark like the raven. His eyes contain the look of peace as a dove. Washed with the milk of the Word. His cheeks and lips have the perfume of spices. His arms like rods of gold, the strength of the Lord manifest in them, decorated with jewels. His body as pure ivory, with jewels. His legs as marble, His feet as pure gold. His appearance as Lebanon (white) snow capped mountains covered with cedar trees. His mouth is very sweetness, the Word of the Lord is in it. He is altogether lovely. This is my lover. He is my friend. A friend who stiketh closer than a brother. A beautiful description of the emotions of the Bride. SOS 5:10-16 PSALMS FORTY-FIVE 4 GRACE POURED IN. Literally to pour out. The very essence of grace is to be found with Jesus. Ps. 45:2 Because He is the source of all grace it is fitting that His words were gracious as they poured forth from His lips. Lk. 4:22 They were words of hope and life. Even as a child, while growing up, it was evident that the grace of God rested upon Him. As the word, living in human form, with the glory of the Lord being manifest in Him, He was replete or filled to the fullness of grace and truth. All that grace and truth can be were active in His life and ministry. Jn. 1:14 Lord help us to emulate Him. Jesus always shares His nature and power with those who are His. We are the beneficiary of every thing that he is. The fullness, the completeness of His grace He shares with us, we are partakers with Him. We receive of His blessings one after another and heaped up and running over. How marvelous and glorious is the abounding grace that He has brought into our lives. THE LORD IS A MAN OF WAR. All power, strength and majesty are His. Ps. 45:3 For the other side, the enemy, it is a constant defeat. There are many battles that have been and must be fought between the kingdom of light and the kingdom of darkness. We are assured that our Lord is the reigning victor. The sword of the Lord is identified as the living WORD OF GOD. A Word that is active, energized and flourishing. It is the sharpest of all swords, none can compare to it. It penetrates to the dividing and identification of soul and spirit. Differentiating between the joints and marrow. It has perfect ability to discern, comprehend, the desires and purposes of the human heart. Our thoughts and intents are not hidden from the Lord. Heb. 4:12 The WORD of His mouth is a sharp double-edged sword. There is power in the anointed Word. It is the sword that will defeat the last day kingdom of satan, the antichrist and the false prophet. Rev. 19:21 Learn to use the sword of the spirit when in a battle. Quote the Word against your enemy and you will be victorious. HE IS THE KING OF GLORY. A mighty champion. A valiant man. The chief ruler. Ps. 45Z:3 None greater than the Lord Jesus. He is the man of extremely great strength. Overwhelming against all enemies. Proven to be triumphant and overcoming in every battle. He has not been, nor will He ever be defeated. He is like a great giant excelling in every battle. Isa. 9:6 There is only one who has the strength to rule over the entire universe, over things spiritual and eternal, that is the King over all kings and the Lord over all lords. 1 Tim. 6:15 Even His voice is filled with vigor and power. It is a thing of beauty to hear. It is a magnificent voice. Ps. 29:4 He is clothed with grandeur and splendor. Ps. 104:1 His kingdom is one of exceeding and glorious majesty. Ps. 145:12 Perhaps eye has not seen nor ear heard of the wonders of the coming kingdom of the Lord. But they are revealed in the book of the Lord. We can know what lies ahead as to the glory, the splendor and the majesty of the New Heavens and the New Earth. His will and purposes are aptly revealed in His Word. 1 Cor. 2:9 PSALMS FORTY-FIVE 5 HIS GLORY AND MAJESTY. A subject that cannot be exhausted. There is nothing that is found on this nor that is common among men that can compare to the GLORY and MAJESTY bestowed upon the Lord Jesus Christ. Ps.45:4 When there is so much emphasis place on angels today, why should we go to those who are under command and minister, when we have access to the HEIR? We are privileged to approach directly the one who has a more excellent NAME. He is acknowledged as the SON. The angels are commanded to worship HIM. Rather, let us go to the one who is WORSHIPPED not to those who worship. Heb. 1:4-6 HEAR YE HIM! This is a direct command from the Father, . Mt. 17:5 His voice is heard through the WORD OF GOD, for Jesus is the Word made flesh. Jn, 1:14 For those living in the last days, God is speaking to us through His SON. He is our exalted king. Heb.1:3 He is the builder of the temple, the Bride of Christ, a process that is soon to be completed. The shepherd -- king, will do the full pleasure of His Father and build the New Jerusalem. Isa. 44:2 His position in the economy of the Lord is unique, for He is both King and Priest. Amazingly, He is also the sacrificed Lamb. Christ is indeed, all and in all. When Christ is king of our life, there is perfect harmony, because of His dual office. Zech. 6:13 His kingly robes are the very majesty, the comeliness or the splendor of the Lord. THE SON OF GLORY AND MAJESTY. The one who is the full effulgence, the brightness or brilliancy of the glory of His Father. To comprehend and behold the glory of the Lord it is necessary to behold the Lord Jesus, for the glory of the Lord shines forth from His radiant face. 2 Cor. 4:6 The one who is the express image, the exact likeness, the perfect vessel through whom the Father chose to show forth His eternal grandeur. The promise of the Word is that the glory of the Lord will be revealed or made manifest. How wonderfully and marvelously that is revealed in the Lord Jesus. Isa. 40:5 The express image, the exact likeness, the precise representation. Image {Gr. Charakter}. Being in particular, an essential component of the Godhead, Jesus is everything that the Father is, without being the Father. He is the eminence, the conspicuousness, the revelation of the invisible God. As the revelation of God, Jesus has the same identical character as His Father. The attributes of the Father are seen in Christ. The being, the essence, the substance of all that is included in the Father, is revealed through the Lord Jesus. He is the perfect replica and bears the exact likeness of His Father. Being the exact image of His Father does not detract from His status but amplifies just exactly who He is. Col. 1:15 PSALM FORTY-FIVE 6 IN HIS MAJESTY HE SUSTAINS ALL THINGS. He is the constancy, the commander of the universe. He maintains all things, natural and spiritual, material and immaterial, temporal and eternal. His is the complete and absolute rule. He is the creator of all things, whether they are heavenly or earthly, seen or unseen. All political authority is in accordance to His will. The powers that exist have been ordained by God. Rom. 13:1 All creation is the work of His hands and is for His eternal and everlasting purpose. Col. 1:16 He is supreme over all. His command is absolute embracing every existing entity, time and eternity as well. All were created and . For His good pleasure. Rev. 4:11 All things originated from Him, all things exist and live because of Him, all things were brought into being for Him. Rom. 11:36 He was before creation, {naturally or He could not have been the creator}. He is Jehovah < the self-existing one, needing no support from any thing or any person>. The whole of creation needs the support of some other element of creation in order to maintain its presence or life. Jehovah is self dependent. Creation is completely dependent. The Lord is the source of the power and authority that enables all thing to consist and to remain within their sphere of existence. Col. 1:17 His is the arrangement of the universe and all that is in it. BY THE WORD OF HIS POWER. All things are kept as they are by the might and power of His eternal WORD. Heb. 1:3 We have not yet exploited the Word of His Power. Power is found in the Word of a King. He is the King of all kings and His Word is supreme. . Ecc. 8:4 Every promise contained in the Word is yea and amen. He cannot deny His Word, therefore His promises will be fulfilled in the lives of those who trust and believe in His Word. The treasures of the Majestic King are innumerable and inexhaustable. He has opened the house of His treasures to those who are His. Pathetically we bring , earthen vessels, of the most humble and lowly kind. Expecting that the rich and royal treasures of the kingdom will be secure in them. The contrast is too great. Earthen vessels cannot contain the rich treasures of the heavenly, except, we recognize that it is the power of God that enables us to receive and retain His treasures. The weakest is contrasted with the strongest. What we have in Christ Jesus is not of ourselves nor of our strength but is maintained by His power. The power of the word. 2 Cor. 4:7 No flesh will be able to glory in the presence of the Lord. The excellency, the overwhelming measure, the supereminence of His power is manifest by the very fact that He can place His power in such weak vessels and still manifest the glory of that power. Any thing that we accomplish in the Gospel is not from our own efforts or ability but is from the manifestation of the power of His Word in vessels of clay. Jesus is the power of God. PSALMS FORTY-FIVE 7 THE MAJESTIC OFFERING OF THE MAJESTIC ONE. Jesus, because of the offering of one sacrifice, that is, Himself was exalted to the right hand of God, or the Majesty on high. By His sacrifice our sins were , granting full and absolute pardon. Heb. 1:3 In contradistinction to the Old Testament priesthood who must daily offer sacrifice, Jesus instituted the, once for all, sacrifice. Jesus offered himself, not only for the people but for himself as well. Heb. 7:27 Now, He is enthroned at the right hand of the Majesty in the heavens. Heb. 8:1 Jesus is exalted to a throne that is, far above, exceedingly over and higher than all, potentates, authorities and earthly powers. More importantly, He has been granted a NAME that is above all names that have ever been given or ever shall be. For time and eternity, the name of the Lord Jesus Christ is supreme. Eph. 1:20 Every knee shall bow at the name of Jesus and will confess that Jesus Christ is Lord. That is the most Majestic name of time and eternity. There never has been nor will there ever be a greater name. Phil. 2: 9-11 IN THE PRESENCE OF THE LORD. The place of strength and joy where the splendor and majesty of the Lord are displayed. Here an invitation is extended to come to the Lord to ascribe the glory and splendor that is due to His name. To worship the Lord in the beauty of His holiness. This is His sanctuary and dwelling place. 1 Chr. 16: 27-29. When the voice of the Lord is heard it is a voice of power and of majesty. It is a voice of forgiveness and of great authority. Ps. 29:4 The Lord reigning on His glorious throne is clothed with Majesty. Ps. 93:1 When the Lord will ride forth in Majesty on behalf of truth, righteousness and humility He will display His power and victory. Ps. 45:4 The manifestation of His glory and majesty will be a time of great distress for the nations and the people of the world. This is the time when they seek to hide themselves in the holes of the rocks and the dens and caves, from the fear of the Lord and the glory of His majesty. It will be a time of exceeding great fear for the unsaved inhabitants of the earth. Isa. 2:19 THE ARMY OF THE LORD IN THE DAY OF BATTLE. The army of the Lord is found in various portions of the scriptures. Two of which are great pictures of the army of the Lord. They are found in Joel 2 and Revelation 17. His army is composed of the people of a willing heart. They will be filled with His power and follow Him in the beauties of holiness or are . Ps. 110:3 While the words armies and battles are used in relationship to the conflict of light and darkness that is to come. From the start there is no doubt as to their outcome. Light, righteousness and truth will prevail. These conflicts are not long drawn out affairs but will be quickly if not instantaneously resolved. Satan and his armies have no possibility of any sort of a victory. They will be briskly dealt with. PSALMS FORTY-FIVE 8 THE PEOPLE OF THE MAJESTIC KING. The youth are to thee as the dew,{NASB}. < From the womb of the dawn you will receive the dew of your youth, {NIV}.> The dew quietly distilling during the night hour. Sustaining plant life. The manna and the dew descended simultaneously. Num. 11:9 Therefore, it is fitting that the dew represent the speech of the Lord. His Word or His doctrine, like the mist and dew it brings and sustains the life of the Spirit. Deut. 32:2 The favor or delight of a king is like the dew. When our ways please our king the dew of His presence is in our lives bringing the sweet awesome perfume of heaven. Pr. 19:12 Dew is likened to a refreshing or resurrection upon those in the grave. Those who have died in the Lord will be . Isa. 26:19 The dew is likened to the holy anointing oil that was used to anoint the priest for his office and service. It produces the blessing of the Lord and everlasting life. Ps.133:2-3 Revival and restoration, fruitfulness because of the promise of dew upon the fields. Zech. 8:12 The blessing of the Lord is often accompanied by the boisterous sound of great rain. It is also obvious that there is a great blessing in the quietness of the dew as it descends almost undetected, yet its presence is there. For a full and complete experience in the Lord, we need both, dew and rain. THE TRIUMPHANT TRIO, THE PILLARS OF VICTORY. Victory assured because of truth, meekness and righteousness. Ps. 45:4 TRUTH. A quality in the leadership of Israel that caused them to be chosen for their positions. They were men who had a good work ethic. They must fear the Lord. They had to hate dishonest gain and must be men of truth. These were singled out to participate in leadership even to the smallest group. The requirements of the Lord have never changed. In seeking leaders for today, this is still the standard of the Lord. Ex. 18:21 Light and truth are inseparable. The revealed WORD is TRUTH. Light and truth will constantly lead us in the right way. They will take us up to the highest pinnacle where we find the glory of His dwelling place. Ps. 43:3 The TRUTH of the LORD is our hiding place and our protection. Mercy, love and truth compose a beautiful combination wherein we are delivered by His might and power. Ps. 40:11 Jesus is TRUTH. Truth, all the truth, the fullness of truth, the essence and embodiment of truth. Grace and truth flow from Him. He is the only way. He is the only door to the Father. All who would come to the Lord must come through Jesus. Jn. 14:6 He has sent another comforter, one like unto Himself. He is called the Spirit of truth. All who receive Him will live in the truth of God. They will embrace the truth. They will revel in the truth. They will manifest the truth. They will speak the truth, for the SPIRIT who is truth will abide within. The Spirit will illuminate the truth of the Word to them for that is His purpose and responsibility for coming into the world. Namely, to manifest and verify the truth to all men who will hear. Jn. 15:26 PSALMS FORTY-FIVE 9 MEEKNESS. What a virtue. This is the only time that this word, in this form, is used in the Old Testament. It refers to the meekness of Royalty. Gentle leadership. Or to be oppressed. The meek or truly humble will find the guidance of the Lord in decisions pertaining to spiritual decisions. They will also find that it is easy to respond to the directions of the Spirit. Ps. 25:9 They are also destined to inherit the earth and live in great peace. The one thousand year of the Kingdom of God on this earth will be theirs. They will rule and reign with Christ. Ps. 37:11 There is a special word of assurance given to the meek of these last days. To those who will face the catastrophes that are coming on the earth in the end of the age. They are the people who seek the Lord, they seek after humility and righteousness. They will be delivered and cared for in the day of the wrath of the Lord. Humility has great benefits. Zeph. 2:3 One of the great statements of the Bible is found in the words of the Lord Jesus when He said; I AM, meek and lowly of heart. Gentleness and humility were among the great attributes of the Son of Man. Just to take upon Himself the form of flesh, had to be humbling to the greatest degree. He left heaven. He left all of His glory. He left His position and standing. He stepped out of eternity, into time. He faced temptation, as a man. Without the sacrifice of Himself, all that He had possessed, would be eternally lost to Him. The only possibility of His entrance into the realms of His eternal kingdom was as the great high priest, offering His own blood on the mercy seat of Heaven. Our finite minds fail to realize the extreme magnitude of His sacrifice and His love for all men. If we learn by His example of humility we will find rest for our souls. Peace and quietness are found in living His life. Mt. 11:29 RIGHTEOUSNESS. That which is right or just, morally, naturally or legally. He is named,< THE LORD OUR RIGHTEOUSNESS>. One of the compound names of JEHOVAH expressing the fullness of His character and being. He is RIGHTEOUSNESS. A rank, a standing that is uniquely His. Without His help none other can reach such a high and holy status. The whole of the plan of salvation is to elevate those who believe in Him to equal standing with Him. After all, He is the LORD RIGHTEOUSNESS. With the Lord in our lives, all spiritual benefits are obtainable. It is His desire to lead us in His paths of righteousness where He may impart His spirit and character into our lives. Ps. 23:3 To the whosoever will, the gates of righteousness are wide open. What a privilege to enter into His glorious presence. Ps. 118:19-20 Jesus said I AM the door. Entrance is gained through Jesus, and Jesus alone. He said; I AM the way. I AM the truth. I AM the life. By ME, men may enter into the kingdom of eternal life. He changes our unrighteousness for His glorious and beautiful righteousness. He will find a people who desire greatly to embrace His RIGHTEOUSNESS and live thereby. PSALMS FORTY-FIVE 10 THE SOURCE OF POWER, THE RIGHT HAND. The LORD {JEHOVAH} appeared. From his right hand there went forth a law of fire. Even under the Law, the Word and the right hand are associated. The Lord Jesus is the eternal Word. Deut. 33:2 Note, the five fold promise of I AM. His presence is assured to those who trust in Him. The right hand of RIGHTEOUSNESS is their stay and strength. Isa. 41:10 His right hand is full of righteousness. That righteousness is imputed to His people. Ps. 41:10 The Lord Jesus exalted to the right hand of the throne of God where he is seen in a manifold capacity, among them He will sit in royal power as a Prince, an author, or one in leadership and authority. Likewise He received the title of Savior, a deliverer, to protect or preserve, even the suggestion of healing is found in Christ as Savior. Acts 5:31 Having been enthroned at the right hand of the Father, He has sent forth a witness, the Holy Ghost. When we have received the person of the Spirit into our life, He becomes a personal testimony to us that the Lord Jesus is at the right hand of the Father. That He was raised from the dead. That He is our intercessor. Acts 2:33 His right hand is our hope of deliverance from all the problems and troubles of this life. He will stretch forth His hand and save. Ps. 138:7 THE RIGHT HAND OF VICTORY. Those that would be an enemy to the Lord have no possibility of being victorious. He knows where they are and will find them and destroy them completely. Ps. 21:8 Utter annihilation awaits them. They will become like a furnace of fire, swallowed up and destroyed by the fire. v.9 How beautifully and wonderfully the Word of God dovetails together. Paul expressed the same thing in relationship to the second coming of the Lord Jesus. The Lord Jesus shall be REVEALED, {manifest, disclosed}, coming with His mighty angels. Coming in flaming fire with great indignation against those who have refused and resisted the gospel message. Their punishment is eternal. They will be separated forever from all that is God or from His glorious presence. Please take a good hard look at the time element involved here. This will happen when He comes to be GLORIFIED IN HIS SAINTS, in other words the rapture. 2 Thes. 1:7-10 There are three things that take place here. He, Christ is REVEALED, that means a non secret appearance. He will come openly, visibly, every eye (Rev. 1:7) from Adam to the last man will see His coming. When He is revealed He is coming to resurrect the dead in Christ and transform those who are yet living and are in Christ that He might GLORIFY them. Coinciding with this great and long anticipated event, unfortunately it will be the time of the visitation of the wrath of the Lord against all His enemies. The glory and power of the right hand of God will be made known in a mighty display of deliverance and judgment at one and the same time. It is important that we spend time on an intensive sturdy of the scriptures pertaining to the subject of the Coming of the Lord Jesus. PSALMS FORTY-FIVE 11 THE EXCEEDINGLY SHARP ARROWS OF THE LORD. The arrow of the Lord is any weapon that He might hurl at His enemies. They are effective, they are sharp and they are deadly. When His arrows are made manifest it is called, an act of God. Most certainly it is. The king's enemies are destroyed and the nations are defeated by the piercing arrows of the Lord. Ps. 45:5 What is the reaction of the Lord in relationship to the wickedness of today and its constant increase? The answer is not a pleasant one, God is angry with the wicked every day. He has prepared for war and judgment. His weapons of warfare are made ready. Ps. 7:11-13 It is well that this world know that there is a day, predetermined by God, when He will judge the world. That day cannot nor will it be delayed or hurried. It is an appointed day for judgment. Acts 17:31 It is not scriptural for any to say that the day of the Lord may be put off or speeded up. Who can change a day that has been set by the Lord? THE ARROWS OF THE LORD. His arrows are only used against those who are the declared enemies of the Lord or His people. His arrow will go forth as the LIGHTNING. Zech. 9:14 Lightning is an interesting fact of life on this globe. It occurs somewhere on earth someone hundred times per second. It travels at the speed of light, that is one hundred eighty-six thousand mile per second. Its strength is one million volts. Its path is heated up to sixty-four thousand degrees F, or thirty-three thousand degrees C. Rather a formidable weapon. When the Lord gave the Law to Moses, on the mountain there was a great manifestation of lightning, amongst other signs. Ex. 19:16 This was a supernatural demonstration of the glorious presence of the Lord. It is obvious that there was one gigantic storm when the Lord joined in battle with the children of Israel against the five kings of the Amorites by sending great hailstones upon the Amorites. These hailstones would have been produced by an immense tempest accompanied by thunder and lightening. Josh. 10:11 David, in giving praise and thanks to the Lord for victory over his enemies mentioned a supernatural help from the Lord. . Ps. 22: 13-15 In Zech 9:14 the reference is to an arrow, singular, the arrow of the Lord. There is an arrow, there is a lightning that is from the very throne of the Lord. Daniel saw the Lord and the Lord's face was like lightning. Dan. 10:6 This same personage appeared again at the tomb. Mt. 28:3 The second coming of Christ will be as the lightning, shining from east to west. Mt. 24:27 As a matter of fact, He will be seen as the lightning, The very glory and brilliancy of His Second Coming will not only be as lightning but He will be a display of intense lightning, or the arrow of the Lord. Lk. 17:24 PSALMS FORTY-FIVE 12 THE THRONE OF THE LORD AN AWESOME THRONE. A tremendous display of flashing, blazing light or lightning. The sound, the roll of thunder, the exceeding great thunderclaps. The discharge of might and energy is absolute. There is no force nor power that can supersede this display. The blazing glory of the living Lord is the greatest in the universe. Do we fear? The flow of the power of the Holy Spirit when He fills us is the same energy that is emitted from the throne of God. What a thrill to know that His power will come forth from the throne and course through the inhabitants of heaven. There is no greater excitement or pleasure than that of the anointing of the Spirit. The voices of the throne are obvious. The Father has spoken to this world. The Son has made His voice heard and in our dispensation it is the Holy Spirit who is speaking. The Lord has a voice and will make Himself heard. as the WORD of God excites us and enrapture us now, so HIS Word will do so throughout eternity. We will revel in the sound of His pleasant and loving WORDS. Rev. 4:5 A FIERCE INTRODUCTION TO THE SEVEN TRUMPETS. The presence of the angel at the golden altar, the alter of incense is a key to impending judgments. The Lord has provided ample time and evidence of this events and to their future fulfillment. These occurrences usher in a series of happenings that will surpass any catastrophe of the past. By all means, remember the condition of the world when these things are to come to pass. It is a world that is antichrist, like Sodom and Gomorra, totally dedicated to wickedness and all manner of unrighteousness. A world of rebellion and anarchy against God and all righteousness. Unfortunately, they are deserving of the coming judgments. The prayers of the saints is to be mingled with the smoke of this incense. Prayer is offered as incense before the Lord. Ps. 142:2 The coals of fire {or lightning} are cast or hurled down upon the earth. Resulting in The manifestations of the throne to be exhibited on the earth, voices, lightnings, thunders and an earthquake. These fearful events are not localized but are world wide. This is just the first of this sort of an event. Rev. 4:5 THE HEAVENLY TEMPLE OPENED. What a moment of time when the throne of heaven will be opened for viewing by all. The ark of His Covenant will be seen. The very holy of holiest will be visible. The ark, the article of furniture representing redemption by the blood of the Lamb, the Lord Jesus. Glorious moment of time for the redeemed as the very heart of our salvation is revealed. There is a real thrill of the Spirit as this moment is anticipated. But for an ungodly world it is another visitation of the righteous wrath and anger of God against the rapidly filling of the cup of iniquity. Exciting and yet extremely dreadful, depending on the spiritual status of the individule at this moment. Rev. 11:19 PSALMS FORTY-FIVE 13 THE CLIMAX OF THE AGES AND TIME. The emptying out of the seventh vial, the last one of the vials, will bring to a grand finale the ages of the dealings of God with sinners. The loud voice, like a trumpet sound proclaiming that . A rather ominous and fateful declaration. Accompanying the usual phenomenon is the greatest earth quake ever. The one which will completely alter the topography of the earth. The cities of the earth will be completely leveled and destroyed. Rev. 16:17-20 THE MULTIFACETED THRONE OF GOD. A vast and unique throne embracing eternity and time. That which is Heavenly and that which is earthly. As an earthly throne it is known as, The Throne of David. The Lord Jesus was to be heir to the throne of his father David. He will reign over the house of Jacob {Jacob, the type of the Spirit filled} in a kingdom that is endless, eternal. Lk. 1:32-33 The earthly throne was exalted and given a name displaying its acceptance by the Lord. It was called; the throne of the LORD or Jehovah. I Chr. 29:23 The Lord spoke through Jeremiah concerning the king whom He would raise up, or the Lord Jesus. A righteous Branch, Gods own Son, reigning over a righteous kingdom. Jer. 23:5 This Branch or shoot, sprout coming forth from Jehovah will reign: in splendor and eminence with the full glory of the Lord manifesting itself from the throne. The fruit or the branches, the people of that kingdom will be a majestic and gloriously beautiful people because they are His. Isa.4:2 While that throne and kingdom will be salvation and eternal life to those who pay obeisance to it and are members of that kingdom. The throne and its occupant will be a judgment bar for the ungodly. It is the responsibility of the Branch to execute judgment, justice and establish a righteous kingdom for a righteous people. Jer. 33:15 The work of the Branch will be wonderful and marvelous, for HE will build the temple of the LORD. He will be the GLORIOUS KING upon the throne of the KINGDOM OF GLORY. He will rule from the throne with a dual function. He will not only be KING but He will also be the only HIGH PRIEST of that eternal and everlasting kingdom. Zech. 6:12 He is called after one of the compound names of Jehovah. THE LORD OUR RIGHTEOUSNESS. Jer. 23:5 If there is righteousness in human kind, it is because He reigns in that heart. The beauty of this is that, what the king is, so are His citizens. They too shall be called after the same name. His name is upon them in a glorious and marvelous way. Speaking of the New Jerusalem, Jeremiah said; that SHE will be called after the name of JEHOVAH OUR RIGHTEOUSNESS. Jer. 33:16 If the bride of Christ is privileged to receive that name and all its benefits for herself it indicates the high and holy calling that is upon her. She will become all that He is. She will bear His exact image and likeness. His majestic character and nature will be hers. Made to bear His image and likeness. PSALMS FORTY-FIVE 14 THE SCEPTER OF JUSTICE AND RIGHTEOUSNESS. The prophecy of the natural kingdom but reaching out, far beyond to the eternal kingdom of our Lord Jesus. Ps. 45:6 The SCEPTER, the rod of authority. The scepter, the BRANCH is literally, the man Christ Jesus. The scepter may be used for punishment, fighting or writing. All of which may be applied to the life and ministry of the Lord Jesus. Balaam, the prophet for hire, engaged to curse Israel, was forced by the Lord to utter a true prophecy concerning the Lord Jesus. Num. 24:17 The future coming of a STAR out of Jacob. A bright shining light. The light of the world. Jn. 8:12 The SCEPTER out of Israel. He was welcomed into Jerusalem as the King of Israel. Jn. 12:13 THE PROPHECY OF DAVID, CALLED HIS LAST WORDS. David recognized as the man exalted by the Lord to the throne and leadership of Israel. A man anointed by the Lord Himself. The delightful singer of Israel. 2 Sam. 23:1 v.2 This is the ideal, even for the church today. May all utterances, from the ministry of the word to the manifestation of the vocal gifts, be inspired and anointed after this gracious fashion. There are some that are of intrinsic value and cannot be altered. The prophecy, the WORD, did not originate from the will of men. Rather, it came through men of holiness. Who, like David were motivated by the precious moving of the Holy Ghost. 2 Pet. 1:21 THE ROCK OF ISRAEL. God, manifest to Israel as a place of refuge, a strong defense, a firm foundation, as a living and life giving entity. While a rock can never be God, yet God is a rock to His people. Ps. 62:7 The Hebrew word for rock, tsuwr, is actually translated in the KJV as God. Isa. 44:8 This also is an expression showing that our God is everything, from a sure foundation, to a strong place of security. The Rock was to Israel in the wilderness a Spiritual rock. Obviously something other that a cliff or a mountain. For that rock traveled with them throughout their journey. They and their cattle drank of its waters. What a tremendous and consistent flow of waters had to come from the rock in order to satisfy the needs of all. The rock is once again given the personality of Deity for Paul said; that rock was Christ. 1 Cor. 10:4 The name Christ is the name of the Holy Spirit, for Christ means anointing or unction. Jesus became the Christ when He was baptized by John in water and the Father baptize Him with the Holy Ghost. Lk. 3:22 Jesus became the Lord's Christ. Lk. 2:26 The anointed Son of His Father. His ministry on earth would not have been possible had He not have been anointed with the Spirit. If this was vital to His ministry, how much more is it a necessity that we be anointed with the Holy Spirit and maintain that precious anointing oil, constantly, that we might be true Ambassadors of Christ. PSALMS FORTY-FIVE 15 HIS LOVE FOR RIGHTEOUSNESS MADE JESUS UNIQUE. Perfect, absolute, complete justice is found in Christ. Every decision, every act was in perfect accord with the will of the Father. He exemplified that which was good and just. Jesus, the son of God, is acknowledged to be the King of Righteousness. Heb. 1:8 One of the benefits of His kingdom and righteousness is that the earth is full of the goodness of the Lord. Ps. 33:5 At least, those who love the Lord find it to be so. He daily loads us with benefits. Ps. 68:19 Because He is righteousness personified His judgment of the world will be absolutely just. Ps. 9:8 Because the Bride, the New Jerusalem, has become like Him, she will be called the City of Righteousness. She will attain unto His righteousness. She will also be called the Faithful City, for she is composed of those who are faithful in following Christ. Isa. 1:26 Christ and the Church will be in perfect harmony one with the other. Their sharing and unity will be equal to the unity that is unique to the Godhead. The name of the LORD our righteousness is to be given to her for they will be one. Jer. 33:16 The Bride will graciously and lovingly receive and bear His name. New city, new Bride, new Name. Before He was the WORD, now He is known by the name His father gave Him, the Lord Jesus Christ. Rev. 3:12 His Bride is predestined, predetermined from the eternity's, to be made or conformed into His image and likeness. She will be like the Lord Jesus in every aspect of Her being. Rom. 8:29 His church is in a process of change and growth spiritually. As the truths of His Word are revealed to our hearts an alteration takes place, we desire more and more to be like Him. We see His glory and long after it. As we hunger and thirst after His righteousness we proceed from glory to glory ultimately to bear His likeness, His Spirit and His character. 2 Cor. 3:18 HE HATED UNRIGHTEOUSNESS. He utterly despised and hated iniquity, so much so, that He was willing to die to eliminate all ungodliness from existence, eternally. Those who worked iniquity in His day, Jesus rebuked and commanded that they go away from Him. Lk. 13:27 Destruction is the destiny of those who work works of unrighteousness and wickedness. They will be cut off from the land. Ps. 101:8 All whose lives are an abomination or are liars will be excluded from the New Jerusalem. Rev. 21:27 The Word of the Lord is very pointed and plain, easily understood, when the statement of the Lord is that He finds no pleasure in wickedness, nor will the unrighteous ever dwell with Him. That excludes them from the Millennium. Ps. 5:4 Note also that He hates those who do wickedly. v.5 Strong, strong words but true. Their eternal dwelling place will be with the devil and the fallen angels, that is, everlasting fire. Mt 25:41 We are living in extremely serious days. The only certain future that we can find is in the Lord Jesus. PSALMS FORTY-FIVE 16 THEREFORE GOD, THY GOD. God has a God? In both instances the term God, is Elyohim and is in the plural. The first addressed as God is the Lord Jesus Christ, who is God manifest in human form. The second mentioned is the eternal everlasting God. The God who is a Triunity. Three in union. A blending together in perfect and consummate unity. The harmony the unifies the Godhead is revealed in the scriptures by WORD and SYMBOL. For example: The LORD (Jehovah) appeared to Abraham. Gen. 18:1 Three men stood by him. v.2 Abraham served them and called himself a servant. He recognized Deity. v.3-8 The Lord said, I will certainly return. I, expressing the unity of God. v.10 The personal pronoun is used once more, shall I reveal to Abraham. v.17 I will go down. v.21 Two of the three went down to Sodom. Gen. 19:1 Two of the Godhead have come into the world and have ministered, The Son, Christ Jesus and the Holy Spirit. One remained with Abraham and was addressed as Lord. Gen. 18:22 This is a clear example of the Godhead and ministry. GOD WAS IN CHRIST. The Son, born of a virgin was to be named Emmanuel which in translation proclaimed that, God is with us. Mt.1:23 The message of the WORD is that God was in Christ. His ministry was to reconcile the world unto God. Only a being who has God like qualifications could perform such a glorious work. 2 Cor. 5:19 How undeniable was God in Christ is seen by the witness and testimony of the Lord Jesus when HE said; A blending together that is unequivocal and Divine. Each of whom, retains His identity, yet combined together to show forth their singleness of purpose. Jn. 14:10 Believe me, I AM in the Father and the Father is in me. v.11 His repetition of the statement is to emphasize the point that He is trying to make to them. The mystery of godliness is one of the great mysteries spoken of in the Word. < God was manifest in the flesh> that is appeared or showed Himself in the person of the Lord Jesus. 1 Tim. 3:16 The mystery is easily solved if we will embrace the volume of the book. That the Godhead is one yet a plurality is borne out in the statement of the LORD God. . The word in the Hebrew is echad, it is translated united, alike, altogether. The emphases is on the joining together of the Godhead which is undivided completeness. God is one, unity. At the same time the plurality of the Godhead is seen when He said . Gen. 3:22 The plurality of the Godhead is also to be noted in the creation of man. Gen. 1:26 Let US make man in OUR image and in OUR likeness. Obviously a Triunity, and so it continues throughout the Word of God. One, yet Three and the Three in One. Here is an example that we live with every day. When He created man He made him, in His likeness and constitution . We were created, physically, with the image and resemblance of very God Himself. ONE yet THREE, THREE yet ONE. For we are Spirit, soul and body. Triune in nature. The Lord will preserve the whole nature of the man who is born of the Spirit unto His coming, spirit, soul and body. 1 Thes. 5:23 PSALMS FORTY-FIVE 17 THE VISIBILITY OF THE INVISIBLE. Abraham, brave and bold in faith, forsook Egypt because he saw Him who is invisible. The eyes of faith open up the vast vista of those things that exist but are not made visible to the natural eye or mind. Heb. 11:27 His vision of the things that are spiritual led him to look forward to a city. The architect and constructor very God Himself. He looked forward to the New Jerusalem, the true eternal city of the everlasting Lord. Heb. 11:10 Abraham was the Father of all who believe. If, we are believers, then the same vision is ours and by faith we can see that which is not visible to the unbeliever. We are privileged beyond measure for we now have the Word of God which will reveal to us those things that are not seen with human eyes. INVISIBLE THINGS CLEARLY SEEN. Now that is a conundrum. Paul made note that the invisible is made known by that which is created. Rom.1:20 Take for instance an element that is vitally necessary for life to exist of earth. It is invisible but we use it every second of our life and that is the air that surrounds us and that which we breathe. We depend upon oxygen to maintain life. We may only see our breath when we exhale under certain atmospheric conditions but we never doubt the existence of that which is invisible to us. In both the Hebrew {neshamah} and Greek {pneuma} the word may be translated air, breath, wind or spirit. Wind is another invisible that is clearly demonstrated when it is blowing. We do not see it but we do see and feel the results of its movements. Likewise the Spirit of the Lord. We rejoice when He fills us with Himself. While we do not see Him we are well aware of His presence and the accompanying results. All of the creation of the Lord is replete with the evidence of His creation and the revelation of Himself in that which He has made. Somebody made, this computer, the house, the car, our clothing, we look around us and see all that man has made. IT DID NOT JUST HAPPEN. For all these things there was a manufacture. Did nature just happen? If there were a combination of gasses or an explosion, where did the materials come from. IN THE BEGINNING GOD. There is no other reasonable answer. A rejection of the Word of the Lord will leave them without an excuse. THE LORD JESUS, THE IMAGE OF THE INVISIBLE. Jesus is the visible representative of the invisible God. Col. 1:15 Jesus stated; that He was in the of the Father. This reveals a close and intimate relationship between the two. It also exhibits the existence of the Father and the Son at one and the same time. The words that Jesus spoke were inspired of the Father, for the Father was in the Son. Jn. 14:10 The works that He did were the works of the Father who dwelt within Him. Jn. 10:38 Glorious unity and fellowship. Nevertheless separate beings easily identifiable as the Godhead or Triunity of the one and true God. PSALMS FORTY-FIVE 18 CHRIST, THE REVELATION OF GOD. The body of Jesus is the body and divulgence of God. The Word was with God in the eternity past and the Word was God. The Word is as real and eternal as the Father. The Word was, is and ever shall be God. Jn. 1:1 That Word was born as a man and became flesh. Born of a virgin. Born of the seed of God. Conceived by the Holy Ghost. As a man, The only one born of His Father, He associated with man, revealing the glory of His Father. Jn. 1:14 When Jesus had accomplished His work, He prayed that His Father would once again envelope Him with the glory that had been His prior to His descent into the earth. Jn. 17:5 Jesus plainly stated that His Father and He were ONE. Jn. 10:30 Then He very strongly made known precisely what He meant. In this same prayer, which is truly the Lords prayer, He prayed that His disciples would become ONE even as He and the Father were ONE. He prayed that the TWELVE would become ONE, or unified, blended together, even as Jesus and His Father are unified, while at the same time each fulfilling their office in the Godhead. Jn. 17:11 Jesus repeated His request for Apostolic unity and oneness, that it might be like unto which unifies the persons of the Godhead. He likewise recognized the fact that they could only achieve that unity by being, . A strong statement confirming the plurality of the Triunity. Only the Lord can cement men together in mind and purpose. Jn. 17:21 The Father indwelling the Son and the Son living in His disciples will bring the church to absolute harmony and ultimate perfection. Jn. 17:23. Because Jesus requested for His church to be perfected it shall be brought to pass. Lord haste the day. THE MANY MEMBER BODY OF CHRIST NUMBERED AS ONE. Once again the voice of the Word and Spirit make known to us that a great number can become ONE. Among others, one requirement that becomes immediately evident is the singleness of heart, mind and spirit that will merge the body into one. What tremendous and colossal changes must be accomplished in the church to accomplish the will of the Lord in this matter. Nevertheless it will be consummated. The multiplicity of the members of the body of Christ will be amalgamated into the body of Christ and become one with Him. Rom. 12:5 The bread of agreement, The WORD and the BROKEN BREAD, the communion of the body of Christ is that which will cause us to recognize the other legitimate members of the body of Christ. We all live by the same source of life, the Lord Jesus Christ. We are all born of and filled with the same Spirit, yet there exist encumbrances which separate us. Paul established a guideline for the last day church. We may rest assured that this is the standard to which the Lord will bring His church. One body, One Lord, one faith (doctrine), One Spirit, one God and Father of all, who is above all, through all and in you all. Eph. 4:1-6 This presents a real challenge. It is what the Lord will require of His Bride. It will happen. A spiritual, non-carnal church. Unto Him be glory in the church. PSALMS FORTY FIVE 19 HE IS THE ONLY WISE GOD. All wisdom and knowledge originate and proceed from Him. 1 Tim. 1:7 Christ is the exceeding greatness of the manifest power of God. All power in heaven and earth is surrendered in to His hands. The foolishness of God, if there is such a thing, is greater than all the accumulated wisdom that man can amass. 1 Cor. 1:25 He is also the KING eternal. KING of the everlasting. Proclaimed to be the KING of Kings, ruling over all the potentates and political powers of the world. The authorities that rule in this world exist, only in the plan and purpose of the Almighty. Rom. 13:1 In the ultimate of time He will be seen as THE KING OF KINGS AND THE LORD OF LORDS. Coming as the great warrior KING. Defeating all His enemies. He has reigned from eternity and will continue to reign through the endless ages to come. Ever splendid and glorious on His throne. Rev. 19:16 He is the only Potentate. The only ruler. When all human leaders have passed into oblivion, He is still reigning. He will one day, soon, surpress all ungodly authority and govern an eternal, everlasting kingdom. 1 Tim. 6:15 He is the very expression of IMMORTALITY. That which is ever living without the taint of mortality, human weakness and frailty leading to death. By the resurrection of Christ from the dead we shall be raised with an incorruptible standing, a body made like unto His glorious resurrected, immortal body. The sowing of incorruptible seed, the Word of God in our lives, is that which will assure us of immortality. 1 Pet. 1:23 Christ, in His resurrection, abolished death and displayed in its place, life and immortality. If a man die, shall he live again? The question is now answered by the Gospel. Every man which is born of the Spirit is in the possession of eternal life. The resurrection of the Christ of God assures all who are in Christ Jesus of a resurrection with a glorified body. 2 Tim. 1:10 His throne and kingdom is in LIGHT. Absolute and eternal light. He dwells in light that is unapproachable to man. His very being and essence is LIGHT. There is no darkness whatsoever to be found in Him. Because He is LIGHT, His light is underived. There is no other source for that light but Himself. Literally, all light emanates from Him, both physical and spiritual. 1 Jn. 1:5 The light, the glory of the Throne of the Lord and the true eternal City, the New Jerusalem beggar description. we have nothing with which we may compare such splendor, such majesty and such beauty. The brightness and colors displayed surpass anything ever seen by human eye. Compare the most beautiful sunrise or sunset and it falls far short. The City will gleam, it will glitter, it will glow, it will flash, it will be ablaze with the effervescence of the eternal glory of the Lord. No night, no darkness, no hidden thing, no transformers, no light wires, no candles. A transparent City that is blazing with glory. Rev. 22:11, 22:5 The Lamb of God to be the light of that magnificent eternal City. The very effulgence of His glory will fill the whole of the City with that true light. Rev. 21:23 PSALM FORTY-FIVE 20 ANOINTED WITH A MEASURE ABOVE ALL. Ps. 45:7 The Holy anointing oil, the Holy Spirit rested upon and in Christ without measure. The Holy Spirit dwelt within Christ in true fullness there was no limit applied to His anointing. Jn. 3:34 This is a measure which we have not yet achieved.The Bride of Christ will know this same deep and wonderful anointing. His body, the Bride will be filled with the of Christ Jesus. Eph. 1:23 She will be thoroughly, one hundred percent, in love with Christ. A love that is equal to the love that is God, for God is LOVE. A love that is beyond human comprehension. Consequently, she will be filled to the complete measure of the fullness of all that the Lord is. Eph. 3:19 The of God in Christ is astonishing. It is limitless.Until we have attained that marvelous status designed by the Lord, we will not reach our full potential. It is called, of the fullness of Christ. The Bride will be exactly like Him for she will be one with Him, having obtained His fullness. She will come to that absolute maturity that is in Christ Jesus. A finished product. The evidence of the power of God to completely transform lives. Eph. 4:13 If this seems unlikely to you, please do not disturb me. I love my dream. THE PLEASING OF HEART OF THE FATHER. This is my beloved Son in whom I am WELL PLEASED. The joy and delight of the heart of the Father. The perfect Son. The Son of complete and absolute obedience. The one who unequivocally accomplished the Divine plans of the Godhead. Mt. 12:18 The good pleasure of the Father is also made know by the act of having the complete fullness of God dwell in Him and in His church. Col. 1:9 It must be remembered that and must be worshipped in the Spirit and truth. Jn. 4:24 Spirit is not physical. When it pertains to God, God has but one PHYSICAL body. The glorious, resurrected body of the Lord Jesus Christ. The Father is an entity as is the Holy Spirit but they are not PHYSICAL nor HUMAN. The Spiritual being of the Godhead is more real than the material, natural man which He created. That which is Spirit is eternal, from everlasting to everlasting. That God has a form is undeniable, for He created man in His own Image and likeness. The natural is then in the likeness of the spiritual, but there is a vast difference between natural and spiritual. The natural is earthly, carnal and limited in its abilities. The Spiritual is holy, righteous, eternal and unlimited in the scope of its power and capabilities. For instance, the resurrected body of the Lord Jesus entered the room without opening the door. Jn. 20:26 The resurrected body is no longer a material body. It is a Spiritual body, very real, very tangible but of entirely different composition. The completeness of Deity dwelt in Christ, by the Spirit. The church has been created that she might reach completeness or fullness and be filled with all the fullness of God, as was Christ. His will is that His people, His church be filled with all the fullness of God. Eph. 3:19 So inexhaustible is the Lord that He can fill all the members of His body, the church, with the fullness of Himself without forfeiting any of His fullness. He shares but remains ever the same. He cannot be diminished. PSALM FORTY-FIVE 21 GOD ANOINTED JESUS. The theme of the New Testament is that of the work of the Anointing or the Holy Spirit. The prime example is the anointing of the Spirit in the life of the Lord Jesus. The anointing of the Spirit was and is given, accompanied by the power of the Lord. A force and authority enabling one to work and conquer the forces of darkness. Acts 10:38 The anointing of the church today, embodies the same capabilities. For Jesus said; that the same works would be accomplished and even to greater works. We may change from generation to generation but the true anointing of the Spirit remains constantly the same. Jn. 14:12 THE OIL OF THE APOTHECARY. This very special anointing oil was prepared to be used exclusively for the anointing of the tabernacle and its furnishings and the High Priest. The oil was an oil of consecration. It was most sacred. It had its own special perfume setting it apart from any other fragrance. Ex. 30: 25-30 There were special restrictions placed on the creation and usage of this oil. It was not to be used to anoint the bodies of men. It was not to be treated as a common unguent. There was not to be made a duplicate or an imitation of this oil composed of the same ingredients. Ex. 30:32 So highly was this sacred oil to be regarded and used that the person disobeying its requirements was to be or cut down. It carried a sentence of death. It therefore is a type of the anointing of Holy Spirit. The anointing of the Holy Spirit is a sacred work of the Spirit and should always be most highly regarded. To counterfeit any of the manifestations of the Spirit would place one in jeopardy of the judgments of the Lord. Ex. 30:33 Its ingredients numbered five. Five is the number of the atonement. This extremely holy oil was prepared to anoint for the ministry of the work of redemption in the tabernacle which is a type of the Lord Jesus in His ministry. We find that its ingredients show a symbol of the Godhead. There are three measurements given of the spices that were to be used. The middle {Christ is always the middle one} is the blending of man and God as it is in the Lord Jesus Christ. God was Christ. >FATHER <> The pure myrrh. Five hundred shekels >SON <> The sweet cinnamon. Two hundred fifty. The SON of man The sweet calamus. Two hundred fifty. The SON of God. >HOLY SPIRIT<>The cassia. Five hundred shekels. >OLIVE OIL <> That which blends the whole as one. The unity of the Godhead is found in the fact that, God is a Spirit. Jn. 4:24 It is beautiful that the rulers of this world have chosen the olive branch as a symbol of Peace and Love. The light of the tabernacle was from crushed olives. Ex. 27:20 Jesus, the rejected, maligned, crushed and beaten, the crucified yet the light of the world and the light of life. Jn. 8:12 PSALM FORTY FIVE 22 CHRIST ANOINTED TO FILL THE OFFICE OF THE GREATEST, THE ONLY, ETERNAL HIGH PRIEST. The ministry of Jesus as the only and true High Priest is that which excels. His priesthood foreshadowed the of which we are already participants. While it is true, that the heavenly future will far exceed our anticipation. 1 Cor. 2:9 The conception of some concerning that which is to be is mere fantasy. They make the future eternal life to be comparable to this life and this world. It will be exceedingly altered, it is a new life in a new heavens and earth with a new Jerusalem as its focal point. The revelation of the Lord pertaining to the future is often ignored. We are assured of the revelation of the coming kingdom by the Word of the Lord. 1 Cor. 2:10 This insight of the plan of the Lord is too often ignored. We can know an exciting measure of what the our eternal home with the Lord will be. Its wonders and marvels will never cease. Christ has entered into the perfect and greatest, the only true tabernacle, created by the Lord Himself. This is that tabernacle which is everlasting and will never change, eternal in the heavens. AS THE HIGH PRIEST HE MUST INTERCEED FOR US. In the system of redemption that has been planned by the Lord, the intercessor is a vital necessity. There was a time when the Lord could find no intercessor. He was < appalled that here was no one to intervene > NIV. Therefore He provided His own intercessor. Isa. 59:16 The true high priest occupied, not only a position but became the only sacrifice. He poured out His life, His soul, His blood as the Lamb of God. The only acceptable sacrifice that can redeem the souls of men. Thus, He became , the one and only high priest ministering before the throne of the living Lord. Amazingly, He prays for the sinner. Isa. 53:12 HIS MINISTRY IS ALL COMPREHENSIVE. He will intervene for the sinner. The one who comes to Him with a broken repentant heart will gain representation before the seat of the Judge of the whole universe. His case is a winner, for the Lamb is His barrister. The case is settled. Absolute, eternal forgiveness is consummated. Heb. 7:25 His glorious priesthood reaches out even to those who were responsible for His death. Astonishingly, contrary to human nature, He prayed for their forgiveness as they were crucifying Him. How far should we go in gaining forgiveness? The hand of pardon and forgiveness is still available. He stands ready to pray for every Israelite who will come to Him. Rom. 11:2 His outreach is to the whosoever will. To all who will turn to Him. Rom. 8:34 Every spirit filled person is a potential to become an intercessor before the Lord. Intercessory prayer is almost unheard of in today’s church. It is a powerful prayer and will produce great results. It is totally misunderstood by most leaders and is often dampened and discouraged. Nevertheless it is a vital part of the plan of the Lord. We shall see a return, to the church, of the prayer of travail in these last days. Rom. 8:26-27 PSALM FORTY FIVE 22 THE RULING HIGH PRIEST. He has a dual role as the true high priest. He must not only offer sacrifice but must be the sacrifice. He offered Himself as the only acceptable offering. He gave His body ONCE for ALL. Though all will not accept the accomplished atonement, yet it covers every person who has been and will have been born into this world. Heb. 10:10 His body replaced and fulfilled the type of the veil or the curtain closing off the Most Holy place of the Tabernacle and Temple. The Most Holy place representing the Throne presence of the Lord. BUT NOW, we come, through the blood of our great high priest directly into the glorious, majestic presence of the Living God. We now have access with boldness into His presence. Heb. 10:19-21 Note the process of coming before Him. Our hearts made right having been washed and redeemed by the precious blood of Christ. Rev. 1:5 Our physical man made pure in the water of the New Birth Titus 3:5 , water of Baptism {by immersion}, Acts 22:16 and by the water of the Word of God. Eph. 5:26 FULL ACHIEVEMENT BY A ONE TIME EVENT. It is very obvious that the Lord had become nauseated with the constant offering of animal sacrifices by a people who were not sincere but merely performing a religious duty. The Lord had no pleasure in them, they were not desirable to Him. Heb. 10:5 He voiced His displeasure of such sacrifices. Heb. 10:6, 8. Even in the days of Isaiah the Lord made known His complete and everlasting rejection of the offering of animals. Consider the repulsion of the Lord; the offering of an Ox comparable to murder. The offering of an oblation {a gift or a meal offering} presenting the blood of a swine. Sacrificing a lamb the same as cutting off a dogs neck. The burning of incense likened to blessing an idol. Isa. 66:3 The restoration of Old Testament sacrifice and offering is the greatest insult that can be perpetrated against God and His Christ. Those who say that there will be a rebuilt Temple in Jerusalem and restoration of OT sacrifice are doing violence to the ONCE for ONLY offering of the body of Christ. It is blasphemy of the highest order. Strong words perhaps, but true. The IMPOSSIBILITY of animal sacrifices. Heb. 10:4 Sacrifices of futility for they remove sacrifices. Heb. 10:11 The first is taken away, removed, set aside, that the second might be established. Heb. 10:9 Because of the frailty, weakness and unprofitableness of the past commandment has been rendered void. Heb. 7:18 The Lord Himself, the creator of the commandments acknowledged their weakness and inability to produce perfection and found fault with the same. Therefore He has made a NEW COVENANT with Judah and Israel. Heb. 8:8 This covenant is effective and powerful. Everything that the commandments failed to accomplish is now made available through the sacrifice of the Son of God, the Lord Jesus Christ. He is the veil, the door of life eternal. PSALM FORTY FIVE 23 HIS ANOINTING INCLUDED THAT OF A PROPHET. The multitude proclaimed Him to be the prophet from Nazareth of Galilee. His entrance into the city created a great stir, they cried out for Him to be their King and they acknowledged Him to be a prophet. Mt. 21:11 His actions following that confession would seem to make Him a mighty prophet indeed. He quickly disrupted the serenity of the Temple market place. Their selling of religious necessities and artifacts in the Temple showed their utter disregard for things sacred. Like a prophet, sent to warn and correct spiritual inequities, He made havoc of their merchandising of religious objects. Mt. 21:12-13. THIS IS THAT PROPHET. In the instructions that the Lord gave to Moses was the prophetic utterance of the coming of another prophet who would be like unto Moses. One coming out of the people, that is, one of their own. When Philip found Nathaniel, he let it be know that the anticipated prophet had been found. The one of whom not only Moses had spoken but the other prophets likewise. His coming and ministry is certainly well recorded in the prophetic messages of the OT. Jn.1:45 The beauty of their prophecies is that Jesus fulfilled them exactly. There could be no doubt as to who He was. He was to be heard, believed and followed. He brought the Words of Life to those who would accept them. He spoke the will of the Father to the people. Pathetically, those who would not hear His message were to be destroyed from among the people of the Lord. Acts 3:22-24 HE IS THAT PROPHET BUT MORE THAN THAT HE IS PROPHECY. He is living prophecy. The total future of this world and our society is wrapped up in Him. Without Jesus Christ there is no future. Daily the truths that He presented are abundantly and so graciously bestowed upon those who believe in and follow Him. Jesus Christ is Revelation, the living utterance of the prophetic declaration. Rev. 1:1 The prophet came to foretell the future, to correct present and where possible bring deliverance from the past. The words of the Lord Jesus came forth from the Father by direct inspiration. He truly spoke the Word of God by the direct illumination and commandment of His Father. John 12:29 Perfect and unconditional unity. As with the prophecies of His first appearance there was total complete compliance between what was prophesied and the consummate fulfillment, so it will be in the days of His Second Coming. He will return precisely as He stated He would, when He said He would. We would all greet Him most gladly if today were the day of His Coming. But, it is not today. There are still elements of HIS prophetic utterances that have not reached their final status and until they are completed He will not nor He can come. He will not violate His WORD. Jesus was that anointed prophet. PSALM FORTY FIVE 24 CHRIST JESUS IS KING. Now to King. The only true King. His guidance and rule is perfect. He not only is above all and in complete and full authority, as King. But He is also the one who serves His constituency. Requiring nothing from them but loyalty and love. There never has been a world ruler like Him, nor can there be, nor will there ever be. He is absolutely unique and one of a kind. HE IS: 1 Tim. 1:17 THE KING ETERNAL. The King of perpetuity, ever lasting, never ending, time without end. A King who will establish at last a kingdom that will remain, unchanging with a secure and peaceful atmosphere. The King, controlling time and eternity. He will bring time to a conclusion by securing and establishing the kingdom forever. Rev. 10:6 THE KING IMMORTAL. He is immortality itself, manifesting and sharing immortality with the whosoever will. He is life, eternal life, ever living. He constantly is taking of His own qualifications and existence and sharing them with the whosoever will. He has called repentant humans to an inheritance that is incorruptible and eternal in heaven. 1 Pet. 1:4 His great desire and purpose is to create a people exactly like Himself with whom He may communicate and fellowship on the same spiritual level. THE VISIBILITY OF THE INVISIBLE. Faith is the key to bringing to light and visibility that which is not seen. Moses was motivated by faith as he led the children of Israel out of Egypt. Faith produces vision. Heb. 11:27 That which is not seen of God is clearly seen in the things surrounding us that he has created. There comes to mind one of the easiest and most common and abundant illustrations in creation. That of a combination of invisible gasses {H2O} when combined, making water. A change of substance. A modification from invisible to highly visible. As gas or water highly useful and eminently necessary. The revelation of the invisible. A beautiful type of the Godhead in its invisibility and visibility as revealed in the Lord Jesus Christ. Rom. 1:20 THE ONLY WISE GOD. There is none other. Even the Lord Himself acknowledges that He knows of no other God. If He did, He would certainly not acknowledge him. Isa. 44:8 It is impossible to look at the without recognizing that it has been created by a perfect and precise intelligence. Everything, in nature is built in a sequence where it is dependent on its surrounding and life support. One feeding or supplying the other. What a marvelous system of life the wisdom of God has produced. Creation is the constant manifestation of the wisdom of God. Prov. 3:19 The pursuit of wisdom, both spiritual {an understanding of who and what the Lord is} and natural or secular is encouraged by the Word of the Lord. Wisdom is supreme. NIV. Prov. 4:7 Study to show yourself approved of God. 2 Tim. 2:15 The student of the Word has an inexhaustible, illuminating and extremely exciting text book in the Word of the Lord. It is a constant revelation. Study it! It will bless you! PSALM FORTY FIVE 25 THE FRAGRANT GARMENTS OF THE PRIEST- KING. The priest was to be clothed with garments of holiness. When the righteousness of the Lord is upon the ministry the saints shout and sing for the joy of the Lord. A consecrated ministry will produce great results. Ps. 132:9 Our challenge today is to the Lord Jesus Christ, to be clothed with His righteousness and His purity. Holiness can only be gained by a total consecration to Christ. Rom.13:14. The consummation of the Divine will is to possess His people in righteousness. The sanctification of the Lord is a part of our blessed inheritance. Rev. 19:8 The office, with the significant robes required a full commitment and dedication. The man anointed was positioned in a sacred place to serve in sanctity and purity. His robes were for beauty and glory. Ex. 28:2 Beauty, reflecting the honor and majesty of the service performed before the Lord. FOR GLORY. Our God is a God of glory and beauty. He is the King of glory. In the person of the Holy Spirit He anoints His people with the glory of the living God. Our victories are assured when the King is enthroned in our hearts. Behold, He stands at the door, He knocks, desiring entrance. Open the doors, welcome the heavenly, majestic King to occupy the throne room of our innermost being. Ps. 24:7-8 In ministry before Him there is another aspect of this word glory that must be considered. In a negative sense it bears the connotation of a weight or a burden. The priest was to interred for the people and in that way bear their burdens. Ministry today is no different. The problems and troubles of the people are borne by the servant of the Lord. They would be overwhelming were it not for the revealed glory of the Lord in the Holy Spirit. He carries our burdens for us. We must learn to place them all before Him and let Him take the responsibility. 1 Pet. 5:7 FOR BEAUTY. The Lord created beautiful. Ecc. 3:11 He creates that which is perfect, honorable and majestic. His sanctuary, both Tabernacle and Temple were impressive buildings for worship. He visited and sanctified both as house of worship. Ps.96:6 How much more His Temple, the body of Christ. The true everlasting sanctuary of the Lord. His beauty will be exhibited there throughout the eternities to come. Eph. 2:7 The beauty of the Lord is the portion of His flock, for He beautifies the humble with His salvation. Ps. 149:4 He has promised that He will beautify His sanctuary while making His footstool glorious. Isa. 60:13 Our expectations are high as we draw closer to the end and the fulfillment of the glorious and wonderful promises of the Lord. PSALM FORTY FIVE 26 THE SWEET PERFUME OF HIS PRESENCE. Upon the King was poured the anointing oil. He was anointed above His fellows. Once again we see one of the many evidences of our God in His character and personality. One perfume, but the blending of three spices into that one. Ps. 45:8 There is another instance where the heavenly aroma is produced and that is when come together in harmony. Ps. 133:1-2 A great challenge but on one that will be accomplished in these last days as the Lord perfects His church. We will enter into a unity that is comparable to that of the Godhead, for we will be one body, in Him. EFFECT OF AND REACTION TO THAT HEAVENLY FRAGRANCE. An aroma that immediately identifies the presence of the one anointed. Like the anointing of Jesus by Mary, the house, the area surrounding the one anointed is pervaded with its perfume. Jn. 12:3 The name of the Lord is declared to be a sweet ointment. Song. 1:3 Where is the Christian that has not entered into the beauty of His presence by simply whispering His name. His name is of the greatest value, for it is the key to an audience with Him and an answer to our prayers. Meet together in His NAME and He is present. Mt. 18:20 It has pleased the Father to send the Holy Spirit, in His NAME. Jn. 14:26 Simply, ask in His NAME and your request is granted that You might be filled with joy. Jn. 16:24 No limit placed on His response. Jn. 16:23 Any thing, I will do it. Jn. 14:14 Whatsoever. Jn. 14:13 All accomplished through recognizing and asking specifically, IN HIS NAME. Deliverance and healing wrought in HIS NAME. Mk. 16:17-18 HIS NAME WAS GIVEN BY HIS FATHER. The Father exalted, lifted Him up on high to the throne of God. Gave Him a name that is unique. A name that stands above and separate from all other names. A name that is a benefit and a blessing to all who will call upon Him, using His name. Phil. 2:9 Remember, that name is as ointment poured forth. Sweet, glorious, wonderful perfume of His presence. Practice calling Him by His name and use that name in your prayer, worship and praise. The term , has become ambiguous. There are a great multiplicity of gods in the world. Which one is being addressed by the word god? When we speak of our Savior or pray to Him we know that we are heard because we have addressed the LORD JESUS CHRIST, which is His NAME. That name is given and breathed by His Father. We honor both the Father and the Son when we acknowledge and accept His Name which He has given us to use so freely. There is coming a day of universal confession when all who have ever lived on the earth will admit That Jesus Christ is Lord to the glory of the Father. Phil. 2:10-11 The peoples of the earth, from those who crucified him to the last man, will wail when they see His return. Rev. 1:7 Phil. 2:11 Thank the Lord we can do it now. Ah, sweet perfume of heaven, so wonderfully made available to those who call upon His Name. Please use and honor His name in your worship before Him. PSALM FORTY FIVE 27 BECAUSE OF HIS NAME THE VIRGINS LOVE HIM. He is altogether lovely and lovable. To really know Him is to know His name and appreciate the great value and esteem that the Father has for the name of the Lord Jesus Christ. Song 1:3 His name is the only name that brings salvation. There is NONE other. The Apostle was very explicit and strong in making this so very obvious. Acts 4: 12 Tremendous changes are wrought in the lives of individuals in that NAME. Paul writing to the Corinthian church made mention of what their lives had been when living under sin. But now, mighty changes have taken place. They had been washed, sanctified and justified by the power of His wonderful NAME. 1 Cor. 6:11 The pinnacle of the work of the Lord Jesus Christ will be to produce a church of perfection. A church that is unified by the Spirit and the Word. A people of one doctrine, one purpose and one mind. Impossible? Not with the Lord. When that move of the Lord comes we will either move into it or be left behind. It is all to the glory and praise of His majestic name. 1 Cor. 1:10 THE COURT OF THE KING, THE ROYAL HOUSEHOLD. The gathering of the daughters of the king. Women of regal bearing. Honorable and worthy of the status afforded them. The word is from the Hebrew Ben or son. Speaking of a son as the foundation of a dynasty or the builder of the family name. The daughters are not excluded, by any means. They were to be as corner stones, the angle of the corner, a place of strength, In the building. Ps. 144:12 Jesus Christ, Himself is the Chief corner stone. The building, the church, the bride, the daughter is that glorious and wonderful edifice that is in the process of formation, even now. Eph. 2:20 The daughters are polished or prepared, literally the word means to hew down and to carve. Ps. 144:13 The bride is HIS WORKMANSHIP. Created in and by Christ Jesus, not as a dead icon but as a living example of the majestic work of the Lord Jesus. A perfect body of believers reflecting His divine likeness. Eph. 2:10 Our daughters like pillars carved to adorn a palace. Ps. 144:12 NIV The craftsman daily takes His tools in hand, perhaps a chisel, a knife or some other cutting tool. Maybe the sand paper to smooth and polish. All is involved in the process of building the Temple of the Lord. If we are to be a part of the glorious, eternal building we must go through the process of preparation. It may not always be pleasant, but afterward it will yield the peaceable fruit of righteousness. The destiny of a consecrated people is to be . That means exactly like and what He is. The highest of callings. True dedicated, holy daughters of the Most High. Rom. 8:29 ALL are changed or they are not included. Transformed or a process of metamorphoses into His likeness. His nature. His being. Unto ever increasing glory. 2 Cor. 3:18 PSALMS FORTY FIVE 28 THE GOLDEN QUEEN. His Queen, clothed in the most expensive and valuable of clothing. For she is worthy. Note, that in being baptized into Christ she has put on Christ. Each step of our Spiritual walk is vital. We dare not leave an act of obedience undone. Gal. 3:27 His beloved, His bride is clothed with salvation and covered with the robe of His righteousness. It is in following His will that the joy of the Lord is made known unto us. Isa 61:10 Putting on Christ requires a full and complete dedication to His will and desire being worked out in our lives. The carnal man, the flesh is to be brought into subjection. The sinful nature of man is to be brought into subjugation to Spirit of the Lord. Rom. 13:14 The bride will demonstrate the life of the new creature, the new being that is like Christ. Walking and living in true righteousness and holiness. Eph. 4:24 The comprehension and knowledge of the Word is the force that enables us to seek and find His likeness. what a marvelous privilege to be made into the same image and likeness of the one who created us. Eph. 3:18 The bond, the sealing element is the love of God that has been showered into our hearts by the Holy Spirit. Love will perfect the unity of the members of His bride and it will perfect the unity between Christ and His church. Col. 3:14 Beautiful, majestically clothed Bride. HIS BRIDE-QUEEN IS TRIUMPHANT. They will be granted the right of occupancy of the Heavenly throne, for they have overcome. They are victorious over the world, the flesh and the devil. Rev. 3:21 Those to whom it is granted to wear the gown of the bride are those who have been tested and tried. Then have come forth as pure gold. Job 23:10 Amazingly, the present day church, in its urgency to present the Lord as love, has forgotten that correction is also a great part of love. This Queen has been tutored thoroughly in the ways of the Lord. She has been chastened for her miscues. She has been thoroughly scourged for any waywardness that she has exhibited. The corrections that she has received have resulted in her purity and holiness. Heb. 12:6 Correction is a necessary part of natural development and more so of the spiritual. To be without the chastisement of the Lord places one in the category of an illegitimate child. Heb. 12:8 The life style of the Christian is determined by their ability to receive the corrections of the Lord. The Lord corrects us that we might receive an abundance of His life. His purpose is that we might be partakers of His holiness. Heb. 12:9 Chastisement is not pleasant nor enjoyable. It is the end results that please not only the Lord but those chastised as well for we are made aware of the beautiful results that are made manifest. Heb. 12:10 The Lord will share His righteousness with us. More than that, correction enables Him to share the entirety of Himself. He has called His Bride to stand by His side on that great Heavenly throne shared by The Father, the Lord Jesus and the Bride. Lets move up, lets move on into the glories that He has prepared for us. PSALM FORTY FIVE 29 THE CHOOSING OF A BRIDE. The manner the Lord uses in choosing a bride is at times most unusual and not what would be anticipated. The example is in the earthly Jerusalem. The history and beauty and beauty of the same is a type of the New Jerusalem. The origins leave nothing for boasting. The place of your birth, your ancestry was in the land of the Canaanites {humiliated}. Canaan, was a son of Ham. Gen. 9:18 A curse was pronounced upon him. Gen. 9:25 An austere beginning. Even so, the Bride has similar background, coming from the dregs of the earth. Compare 1 Cor. 6:9-11 Your Father an Amorite {publicity or prominence} An iniquitous people. Gen. 15:16 Your Mother a Hittite {terror}. Eze. 16:3 Under the call given to Abraham they were to separate themselves from the sinful, idolatrous ways of these nations. Even though they were kin. Ultimately this failure to fulfill the Word of the Lord brought nothing but trouble to them. Ezra 9:1 The call of the Spirit and the teaching of the Word to the Bride is to separate herself wholly to the Lord. 2 Cor. 6:17 The command of the Lord was to utterly destroy them, lest their wicked ways would be followed. Deut. 20:17 The that remain in the lives of Christians will destroy them. They must be dealt with and destroyed. Holiness is the theme and watch word of the Bride. 2 Cor. 7:1 FOUND ABANDONED AND UNKEMPT. Tossed aside at the time of birth. The cord uncut. Still attached to the old life, the past. Too many are brought to birth and then abandoned. If we lead someone to Christ, are we not responsible to see that they are established in a spiritual family where they may be cared for? Too many are on a , seeking numbers without accepting responsibility. To fear the Lord and shun evil, is health and nourishment. Pr. 3:7-8 Discovered unwashed and unclean. Not cared for, completely neglected and unwanted. Whether one be a prodigal or a king on his throne, spiritually all fit into one category, wallowing in the filth and uncleanness of our sin. For all have sinned and come short. Rom. 3:23 Unsalted or not rubbed with salt for purification. Salt was offered with the offerings. Num. 18:19 It was also called a covenant of salt. The covenant of salt was used in giving the kingdom to David and his sons. Because of its value and ability to preserve it is used as a security of the covenant. Salt will enhance food and make it tasty. So our lives and speech should be seasoned with salt. Col. 4:6 Be salt or be cast out. Mt. 5:13 No choice given. It is either or. Utterly disregarded, unswaddeled, unwrapped. Not held nor cuddled. Unloved and unlovely. Not an uncommon circumstance in the world today. So many unwanted and abandoned babies are brought into this life. The world of sin is a harsh world. The way of the transgressor is the hard, it is the difficult way. Pr. 13:15 Surely, we can all find a picture of our lives before we came to he Lord. It was an empty unrewarding life. Life begins at Calvary. True life, everlasting life is found in Jesus Christ. PSALM FORTY FIVE 30 LIVE! The call and commandment of the Lord. Directed in the natural and first of all to Jerusalem. Finding its completion in the redemption of mankind with the climax being the New Jerusalem or the Bride of Christ. Eze. 16:6 For a view of those to whom such a message from the Lord would be addressed consider Titus 3:1-3. Then the call of the love of the Lord as His kindness and grace. Titus 3:5 What a sight. What a mess sinful man must appear to be in the sight of a pure and holy God. He loves us in spite of our vile and corrupt nature. All life emanates from the living God. Life is the gift of the Lord, natural and spiritual. All living creatures and plants owe their existence to Him. Acts 17:25 He is the very fountain head of life. Ps. 36:9 In the Son is found that life. The source, the sustenance and the future of all who would live. John 1:4 He has shared and will continue to share that eternal and abundant life with all who know Him. John 14:19 Real life, life for the now and eternity is found in the Lord Jesus Christ. LOVING CARE WILL GENERATE GROWTH. Any product or any intent that has the blessing of the Lord on it will increase and prosper. If that which was the natural seed grew extensively, how much more that which is spiritual. The language used to express their phenomenal growth is; fruitful, increased abundantly or multiplied greatly, exceeding mighty or exceedingly numerous until the land of Egypt was filled with them. Ex. 1:7 Now she has come to maturity. Clothed and decked with ornaments, jewels or Spiritual gifts. Eze. 16:7 Even as the invitation of the Lord to the church is to buy of Him, pure gold, tested and tried. White raiment's, or the holiness and righteousness of the Lord, that they do not appear to be naked. All accomplished through the anointing of the Holy Spirit. Rev. 3:18 THE TIME OF LOVE. Too many are recipients of the love of Christ without making a full commitment to Him. In His mercy and grace He gave Himself for all mankind while we were yet sinners. Rom. 5:8 Now, particularly in our day, He is seeking a people who will love Him above all else by following the first and greatest commandment, responding with love to His love. Loving Him with the entirety of our heart, soul, mind and strength. That involves the whole being and character. Mark 12:30 Love with the whole, entire source of affections, the spiritual entity. The complete soul or the seat of the natural man with all of his emotions and feelings. When this is accomplished there is no longer room for carnal desires. The mind, the source of our thought life. The area where sin is germinated. Once committed to Christ the whole pattern of our thoughts are altered and we have His mind. Strength, our might and victory is in the Holy Spirit. Through His power and might we are more than conquerors. +When we are sold out to Christ, the greatness of His love will be seen in the Bride. Her love for Him will be the love of all loves. Beautiful, complete and absolutely absolute, faultlessly faultless and perfectly perfect. The greatest of loves cannot compare to the love of Christ and His Bride. PSALM FORTY FIVE 31 A SIGN OF PROTECTION AND AFFECTION. The Lord laid claim to that which had been so ugly and gross. He spread the hem of His priestly robes over her, claiming her as His very own. They were and the Bride now is the oil and the wine. The anointing and joy of the Spirit. She came to have trust and confidence in the covering of His great wings. Ps. 36:7 He will become her {the bride} place of refuge until the great tribulation pass by. Ps. 57:1 His wings, His tabernacle, the place of His protection. Ps. 61:4 Ruth, at the midnight hour is found at the feet of Boaz. Ruth 3:8 The midnight hour is significant of the end of the age. We are drawing ever closer to that precious time. In this instance it is Ruth who requested that Boaz become her protector and caregiver. He is a near kinsman with the responsibility of taking her as his wife in order to produce seed in the name of her departed husband. Ruth 3:9 They are a beautiful type of Christ and His Bride. We have been covered and purchased by His precious blood to be His very own. Acts 20:28 THE COVERING OF DEITY. The intent and purpose of the shedding of blood was to cover the sins of men. The Lord does not or hide the sins of His people. He exposes them and then forgives them as they seek Divine forgiveness. Our sins are covered or atoned for by the blood of the Lamb of God. Ps. 85:2 John 1:29 The Lord made covenant with His people. Requiring them to hear His voice and to obey His Word. In so doing they would become the most outstanding people of the earth. Ex. 19:5 They would be greatly increased as a nation and would inherit the land which the Lord was giving to them. Ex. 32:13 In His covenant he promised that He would never forsake them, never forget His covenant and would never forsake them. Their great requirement was to be obedient to His will and Word. Deut. 4:31 He took them by the hand to lead them out of Egypt. He was a husband to them and remained faithful even when they broke covenant. Jer. 31:32 The Lord proclaimed them to be His prized possession. The people of His love. His redeemed, His very own. To have one who is so mighty, so pure and holy reach out to such a despicable creature as described here is Ezekiel demonstrates the highs and depths of His majestic love. This is great cause for rejoicing. He has clothed us with he beautiful garments of salvation. We are now covered with the robe of HIS righteousness. We are now adorned with the beautiful jewels worn by the Bride. We are to be made like unto Him. Isa. 61:10 When our eyes are fixed upon Him there is a process at work in us. The vision of His glory will change the beholder into the same image and likeness. Now, there must be that process and growth that is transforming every true believer into the glory and likeness of the Son of God. 2 Cor. 3:18 We cannot remain at a status quo. There must be spiritual progress and growth constantly being manifest in those whom He has called to the wedding. PSALM FORTY FIVE 32 YOU BECAME MINE. Called to be the possession of the Lord. His people. His wife. From the very beginning they were a called out people. The very special and precious treasure of the Lord. A kingdom of priests and a nation of holiness. Ex. 19:5-6 Those who respected the Lord and maintained a constant conversation pertaining to Him, were to be His, when He made up his jewels or treasured possession. Mal. 3:17 The portion of the Lord is His people. They are very special in His sight. Deut. 32:9 His heart felt desire is that He might have a nation who love and serve Him above all else. Heb. 8:10 I WASHED YOU, I ANOINTED YOU. As unlovely and contaminated as she was, yet His mercy and grace were extended to her. Eze. 16:.9 The will of the Lord has always been to have a people of righteousness and holiness. His desires have never changed. His Bride will be altogether pure, clean and holy. If there is no other way, then it will be by the spirit of burning and judgment. Isa. 4:4 The true Holy Ghost baptism is a baptism of fire. Mt. 3:11 Judgment begins at the house of the Lord. 1 Pet. 4:17 We are to be washed, in His blood. Rev. 1:5, in the waters of baptism. Acts 22:16, by the cleansing capabilities of the word. Eph. 5:26 The source of the anointing is the Lord Himself. 2 Cor. 1:21 It is an abiding and teaching anointing. 1 Jn. 2:27 Washed thoroughly. Perfectly cleansed. If Jesus was tempted in all points like as we are, and He over came, then we too can overcome the world, the flesh and the devil. WONDROUSLY AND BEAUTIFULLY CLOTHED. Eze. 16:10 Clothed with garments of variegated colors, embroidered work. Covered with a coat of broidered work, as was the high priest. Ex. 28:5 The high calling in Christ is to be a nation of priests unto the Lord. Those who participate in the first resurrection are assured this blessed privilege. Rev. 20:6 The feet shod with badgers {sea cow, NIV} skins. The badgers skins were used as the outside protection for the Tabernacle, shielding it from the sun, rain and all weather. Ex. 26:14 The gospel of peace for foot protection. Eph. 6:15 Fine linen. The clothing of the high priest was made of fine linen. Colorfully embroidered with blue, {type of the Spirit}, purple, {type of royalty} and scarlet, {type of redeeming blood}. The very best of linen was used which had a bright sheen to it. The clothing of the Bride of Christ which symbolizes her purity and holiness. Rev. 19:8 Covered, to protect or overshadow, So the cloud of glory covered the Tabernacle and the glory of the Lord filled it. Silk, drawn out, separated from the cocoon. Illustrating, those who have come to maturity and are ready for solid food. Now searching for knowledge of the Most High and ready to comprehend the doctrines of the Word of God as taught and revealed by the Holy Spirit. Isa. 28:9 PSALM FORTY FIVE 33 ADORNED WITH WEALTH. Great wealth accumulated by the nation. Gold and precious stones yielded in great abundance to the people of Israel as they left Egypt. The wealth of Egypt left with them. Ex. 12:35 Unfortunately so did the spirit of Egypt. The very wealth that they had became a stumbling block to them. They converted the golden earrings into a golden calf as an object of worship. Ex. 32:4 Wealth is not the panacea for world or personal problems, Christ is! There were five ornaments that the Lord bestowed on her. The number of atonement. Eze.16:11-12 The HANDS, used to labor, worship and as a sign of purity and innocence. Ps. 1:24 THE NECK, or mouth or throat used in speech or worship. Ps. 149:6 It is also a source of strength and can be a symbol of stubbornness and obstinacy. Pr. 29:1 Also, looked upon as an object of beauty. Song 4:4 THE FOREHEAD, or nose. The forefront of the mind and thoughts. The High Priest was to wear the plate of gold with the inscription, HOLINESS TO THE LORD. Our thought life is to be pure before the Lord. He would have His people to have clean and pure minds. In the last days the servants of the Lord are to receive that seal of holiness in their foreheads. Rev. 7:3 The mark of the antichrist will be in the foreheads of the ungodly. Rev. 13:16 Satan can only imitate. THE EAR, The organ of hearing. Vital for communication and understanding. The hearing ear is able to accept discipline and commands. Job 34:3 The ability to hear and act on the Word of the Lord, will produce faith. Rom. 10:17 THE HEAD, the brain, the source of all the activity of the body. The anointing oil was poured upon the head. An anointed head and thought life will bring great victory. Ps. 23:5 THE CROWN, crowned as a princess, to be the wife of the king. Made to be a Queen among the nations. Elevated and given authority. Eze. 16:12 A diadem of beauty and glory. She was a person of exceeding beauty and prospered into a great and victorious kingdom. Eze. 16:13 A MAJESTY AND BEAUTY CONFERRED BY THE LORD. The Lord took of His own splendor and magnificence and made it to be hers. All that she possessed did not originate from her own beauty but was the gift of the Almighty. She was the perfection of beauty. Her fame spread through out the world. Eze. 16:14 Because of her pride she was deposed from her high and exalted position and scattered abroad. With the exception of her fall, she is a beautiful type of the Bride of Christ. In the last days, there will be a cleansing and separation brought about by the Lord. Eph. 5:26 There is far too much flesh demonstrated in the church of today. There will come a cleansing wave which will sweep through the body of Christ removing all that is superfluous. All foolishness and manifestations that are not from the Lord will cease. The righteousness and holiness of the Lord will become the watchword and theme of a perfected church, the body of the Lord Jesus Christ. PSALM FORTY FIVE 34 THE BRIDE HAS THE ABILITY TO LISTEN TO HIS VOICE. A critical component for a good marriage. The capability not only to hear but to comprehend the words being spoken. HEARKEN. Ps 45:10 The call of the Word and the Spirit that is going forth to the church. It is a call for preparation. To turn to the Lord in separating ourselves from every impurity and contamination of the flesh and of the spirit. Reaching out to achieve perfect holiness in the Lord. Respecting the desire and wishes of the heavenly Bridegroom. 2 Cor. 7:1 If we will hear the voice of the Spirit, it is to come out, come out from the world, separate yourself from the worldliness practiced by the church in general. Leave unclean practices and works. Cling to the vital truths of the Word. Embrace its standards of holiness. Thus, enabling the Lord to be a Father to His church and that the members of the church may enjoy a full and deep relationship with Him as sons and daughters. 2 Cor. 6:17-18 THE VOICE OF THE BELOVED. There is no voice as compassionate nor as tender as His. His gracious love shines forth from every word. It is a word of direction and correction. Of power and glory, the majesty of the Lord is revealed in His WORD. With the voice of love, the lover is calling out to His Bride. Rise up, stir yourself, come awake recognize the time and the season. Come with me, what a marvelous invitation. To be with Christ, to ever behold His glorious face. To hear the melodious sound of His voice and to feel the compassion and depths of His love for His beloved. Song 2:10 The seriousness of the call is indicated by its repetition, arise and come. Dare we disregard the call of His voice and miss the climax of His purpose for His church? Song 2:13 BENEFITS FROM HAVING A HEARING EAR. Take this vital factor under deep consideration. Hear well that which is being spoken and be blest by it. Lend a hearing ear and heart, for the Lord is speaking to the heart of His people. This is a day of preparation. A full commitment to the Lord is His desire toward His people. There is a direct call for absolute consecration to the Lord carried to us today by the Spirit of the Lord. The Lord called Abram and told him to of the land in which he was dwelling and the Lord would show him a better land. Gen. 12:1 The covenant of Ruth was unconditional in following Naomi. Ruth 1:16-17 Even to death. Ruth noting her determination ceased from trying to dissuade her from following her back to Israel. An excellent example of undivided surrender. The true price of discipleship is of great cost to the half hearted. Jesus left all to become the savior, sacrifice for the salvation of men. To commit all to Him is a small price compared to the price He paid. One can never lose in making a full surrender to His will. The rewards are for eternity and will never perish. Mt. 19:29 PSALM FORTY FIVE 35 HEARING AND DOING PRODUCE BLESSINGS. Hearken, consider and incline thine ear. Ps. 45:10 The importance of possessing the ability to hear and follow the Word of the Lord is greatly emphasized. The Lord quickens His Word to us that we might know and fulfill His will. Here is a marvelous scripture that shows the attitude required to be a member of the body of Christ. As quickly as they hear they obey. What more could the Lord desire from us? Ps. 18:44 The Lord is a stickler for obedience. It is a requisite for the Bride. The blessed people are those who follow His ways. Pr. 8:32 The foolishness of working and the spending money for things that cannot satisfy. If we will listen to the Lord we will receive that which is good and satisfies completely the whole man. Isa. 55:2 The ear that can hear the Word, {unfortunately not all can hear what the Word is saying, even Christians}, will produce life in the hearer. They will receive the blessings of the everlasting covenant, even the sure mercies of David. The love of the Lord promised to David and to the generations to come who would hear, receive and obey. Isa. 55:3 THE CALL OF THE BELOVED TO HIS LOVER. The call of the Lord Jesus to His Bride, The object of His love, His darling, His friend and companion. She is beautiful and altogether lovely in His sight. He is inviting her to come away with Him, to be separated only unto Him. Song 2:10. The word love is the Hebrew word {ra’yah} and is used nine times and only in the Song of Solomon. The WAKENED HEART will hear the voice of her Beloved who stands knocking at the door. Song 5:2 His voice is heard as He calls to the church for a response and an opened door. It is not an injustice to the Word to associate the thought of eating together with the communion table. Rev. 3:20 Those who receive an invitation to the marriage supper of the Lamb are particularly blessed and in a great way, for they are the called of the Lord. Rev. 19:9 He addressed her as MY SISTER. A fitting term of endearment and family. Those who do the will of the heavenly Father are acknowledged as having this relationship. Obedience is a very necessary key to membership in the family of the Lord. Mt. 12:50 MY LOVE, MY DARLING. By comparison and in His sight she is like a beautiful lily in full bloom coming up among the thrones, the daughters of the flesh. Truly there is no comparison between the worldly, the carnal and that glorious and beautiful Bride that will be His in the end of the age. Song 2:2 The entirety of the creative abilities of the Lord are directed toward the grand and glorious finished Bride of Christ. There is nothing haphazard about her what so ever. She is the result of the deliberate planning and bringing to pass of the divine design of the living God. The whole plan of salvation is consummated in Christ receiving a Bride who is absolute in her bearing and likeness to Himself. She must be and certainly will be in His exact image and likeness. Lacking in no manner of bearing His exact appearance and character. PSALM FORTY FIVE 36 CONTINUED ROMANTIC WORDS OF THE BRIDEGROOM. Song 5:2 MY DOVE, The dove noted for its lifelong devotion one to the other. His dove found in the clefts of the great rock in a weary land. Song 2:14 As the Lord placed Moses in the cleft of the rock and covered him with His hand so the Dove will find her refuge in the rock, the Lord, during the tribulation period. He is our rock. Ps. 18:31 Ps. 94:22 He is the secret place, our place to hide and take refuge during the turmoil that is coming on the earth. The promises of a secure place, for the Bride are many. The Lord will protect and care of His Dove. Ps. 91:1-2 His Dove is unique, one of a kind. She is greatly loved and appreciated by all who know her. They praise her for the physical and the spiritual beauty they find in her. Song 6:9 She is His UNDEFILED, His perfect one. The word UNDEFILED is also translated COUPLED, in relationship to the corner boards of the Tabernacle. These boards are a type of Christ and His Bride. They are united as one, depicting the perfect and absolute unity and harmony between Christ and His Bride. Note, they are also to be double, the double or complete portion. Ex. 26:24 It is translated, UPRIGHT, those who are hated by the unrighteous. THE UNDEFILED OR THE PERFECTED. My UNDEFILED, the upright, the holy one. Men teach and preach of a God with whom nothing is impossible. NOTHING BUT NOTHING is impossible with the Lord. Until it comes to the perfection of the Bride of Christ, then, that cannot happen? Oh, consistency thou art a jewel. The CHALLENGE of perfection. Jesus established the standard and called men to partake of its fulfillment. Mt. 5:48 Jesus PRAYED for the perfection and unity of His church. Jn. 17:23 Paul wrote and taught PERFECTION. With UNITY of the Spirit and DOCTRINE as its goal. A complete comprehension and knowledge of who and what Jesus is as the motivation, the master plan. Read the blue print, it shows a completed building perfect in every aspect. The perfect man or church is one that will have reached the full measure of the glory, the power, the very being of Christ living within and manifesting His life. Filled with all the fullness of everything that is to be found in the nature and character of God Himself. Eph. 4:13 The good pleasure of the Father was that in Christ Jesus ALL THE FULNESS of the Godhead was to dwell. Col. 1:9 He is the dwelling place, the habitation of the Living God. Col. 2:9 The Bride is privileged to be filled to the fullness with all the fullness of God. Eph. 3:19 If the completeness, the totality of the Godhead dwells in Christ and Christ dwells in us, then most assuredly having received Christ as savior and Lord, the essence of ALL, the being of the Lord that comprises the Godhead will abide within His people. We are the Temple, the house, the people of the Lord, His eternal dwelling place. He will occupy a sanctified and consecrated church in which He will manifest the fullness of His eternal glory. A perfect Bride. Wholly like Himself. PSALM FORTY FIVE 37 THE HEART OF THE KING GREATLY MOVED. The beauty of the Bride is the thrill and joy of His heart. The love and appreciation of the Lord Jesus for His church, the body of Christ, His Bride is evident. His love is so great that He gave HIMSELF for her. Eph. 5:25 When He has given all, the complete, total sacrifice, He must at times wonder at the lack of consecration, to Him, on behalf of those who claim to have a desire to be His bride. She must be holy. It is the desire of the Lord that she be as holy as He. He is holiness personified. That holiness will be accomplished by a people who are obedient to His Word. They are washed by the Word or are in subjection to and are cleansed by the WORD. They believe it in its entirety and accept it as a way of life for themselves. Eph. 5:26 That WORD will produce the desired result of a glorious, radiant, brightly shining Bride that is filled with all the light that is God. The literal brilliancy of that glorified body of believers will shine as the sun in all its strength. Rev.12:1 She is the fulfillment of the vision of His heart to have a bride precisely like Himself. The word, means to stand beside or to exhibit. This gives us an insight to the joy and pride that is in His heart as He presents her to the universe as His one and only, deeply loved and most precious. THE DEEP FEELINGS OF THE LORD FOR HIS BRIDE. He called her the fairest, or the most beautiful among women. There never has been nor will there ever be another one, like her. Song 1:8 She is the delight of the Lord. The exact culmination of His desires. The one whom He favors. She has won His favor by her absolute dedication to Him. Isa. 62:4 She is the joy and rejoicing of His heart. Isa. 62:5 His heart is moved at the sound of her voice. It is the sweetest of all voices to Him. He longs to hear it proclaiming her love and appreciation for Him. True, heartfelt worship and praise will move His heart with a response of love. He proclaims her to be the most beautiful, and truly she is. Song 2:14 She proclaimed herself to be the possession of her beloved's. Again that spirit of full and complete dedication and surrender to Him. She is aware of the fact that the totality of His desire is toward her. He desires none other, none other could in anyway please him. Song 7:8 She has consumed or stolen His heart. It is repeated twice for emphasis. Song 4:9 Her love is delightful to Him. Much more pleasing than wine. Song. 4:10 The perfection of the Bride is noted in Song 4:7 She is altogether beautiful. There is no spot or flaw to be found in her. The expectations of the Bridegroom are completely met in her. Repeatedly her beauty is mentioned. She is described as beautiful, terrible, frightening or majestic {NIV} as an army with banners. Song 6:4 To the uninitiated, the workings of the Spirit are indeed frightening. The harmony, the unity of the Spirit is seen as an army marching in perfect step and array. Many, unified as only the Spirit can make them one, marching in perfect order. As in Joel 2:2-11 PSALM FORTY FIVE 38 HE IS YOUR LORD. The personal contact that we have with the Lord is the beauty of our relationship. We acknowledge Him as our King, our Sovereign. The Bride will gladly acknowledge him as her leader and guide. In His leadership there is found no fault. It is always certain and right. Ps. 45:11 He is addressed as God. His kingdom is one that shall never cease for it is eternal and everlasting. The scepter or staff of His kingdom is one of unblemished justice. All who come to Him may expect to find that their cause is dealt with justly. Ps. 45:6 Those who were with Him during His ministry acknowledged Him as Lord and God. Note the words of Thomas at their first meeting after His resurrection where he called Him . John 20:28 Then the admission of Peter where the same statement is made. . Acts 10:36 Paul also said that Jesus to be called Lord and will be so named at the universal prayer meeting where all will bow the knee. Those in heaven, on the earth and under the earth and every tongue must confess that Jesus Christ is Lord. He will be recognized as Lord of all, by all who have ever lived on the earth. In this universal admission the Father is glorified. Phil. 2:10-11 YOUR CREATOR IS YOUR HUSBAND. This is the whole purpose in the creation of the heavens and the earth and the creation of its occupants. The one who brought you into existence, who made you of the dust of the earth. Then has caused you to be birthed spiritually, is your husband. Isa 54:5 The death, burial and resurrection of the Lord Jesus is the means whereby His church is created. We are His workmanship. Eph. 2:10 The result of His agony and travail in delivering us from sin. He suffered at the hands of mankind that He might produce from mankind a perfect Bride who is zealous of good works. It is the responsibility of the Bride to prepare herself for the greatest wedding of all time and ages. His wife has made herself ready. Rev. 19:7 Baptism, of the water and of the Spirit, after salvation is vital to the person who would . Gal 3:27 Not only is He the Bridegroom but He is the wedding gown of the Bride. To put on Christ means that the Christ life is now in action in our lives and that we are totally committed and surrendered to live His life, in the here and now. The NEW MAN is not a life that is learned or taught by man but it is the work of creation in the believer. The NEW MAN is a created man or the introduction of the Life of Christ in those who believe. It is a creation that produces righteousness and true holiness in those who would be in the Bride of Christ. There are standards of godliness that are evident in the Bride. Without them one cannot find a place in that glorious number. They are an exclusive people who have met all the requirements. Eph. 4:24 The seal of the Bride is love. The love of God dwelling in her, manifesting itself in her love. A love for the lost of the world. Love for the brethren. A heartfelt love for the Lord. Love in its totality. Love that binds together all those who are brought to perfection. Col. 3:14 PSALM FORTY FIVE 39 THE BRIDEGROOM IS STRICKEN BY THE BEAUTY OF THE BRIDE. See her as He sees her. She is beautiful, from a root word meaning to be bright. Of one thing we may be certain and that is that she will be a being of light. All the light giving bodies are used in a description of her. Rev. 12:1 Zion, the true Sion of God, the New Jerusalem is the city of the light of the Lord. She is perfect in beauty because the light of the Lord is shining out from within her. Ps. 50:2 It is the city of the endless day. The Lamb is to be the everlasting light of that city. This is the everlasting city that will glow with the light that is greater than that of the noon day sun. Rev. 21:25 Amazingly, Satan was ascribed this beauty in his creation. Perfect in Beauty. Eze. 28:12 A being of beauty, wisdom and brightness who will ultimately be destroyed by the Lord. Eze. 28:17 Satan was the closest to the throne of God of any of created beings. Wisdom, light and beauty were given to him until he began to think of himself as God. He tried to assert his will above the will of the Lord. Isa. 14:13-14 Of this we should be aware, he is still beautiful and attractive. All of his works of evil have an appeal to the carnal, fleshly nature of man. The enticements of Satan can only produce harm and destruction. THE CALL OF THE WORD AND THE SPIRIT. It is a call for separation. The call of the Lord has been consistent, from the Old Testament to the New for a people who live according to the plan and purpose of the Lord. This requires a total commitment to the Lord. While we live in the world we are not of the world. 2 Cor. 6:17 We have the privilege of by a disconnecting ourselves from all contamination of the flesh and the spirit. 2 Cor. 7:1 It is important that we recognize that there are those things that are called . They need to be identified and shunned. Any and all imitations must be dealt with. The call of the Lord is to a life of holiness. There can be no great move of God until there has been a revival of purity and righteousness. The Lord will not call us to tasks that are impossible. The urgings of His Spirit will always be in the direction of His holiness. 1 Thes. 4:7 There is no question as to the desire of the Lord pertaining to holiness. It is a necessity for every member of the body of Christ. It is a command to His people. 1 Pet. 1:16 Our approach to the Lord in prayer, worship and praise must be with hands that are pure and clean. Hands and hearts that are contaminated become a hindrance in seeking the Lord. 1 Tim. 2:8 The Lord is seeking those that will come before Him . Could there be a more precious place or attitude of heart than that of the beauty of holiness? This is perfect absolute worship unto the Lord. Ps. 96:9 Worship in the beauty of holiness brought victory to Judah. The choir preceded the army with songs of praise. The result was that the enemy was defeated by an act of the Lord and Judah was victorious. There is an important lesson here that we must learn. 2 Chr. 20:21 PSALM FORTY FIVE 40 ELEGANT, BECAUSE SHE IS SPOTLESS. There is no greater love story found in the Word than that of Christ and His Church or Bride. This story is found in type and symbol throughout the scriptures. Here it is a desire because of her beauty. Though she will be beautiful there are other things that attract Him to this Bride. One is, her spotless purity. There is no possibility of finding a flaw or a fault in her. Song 4:7 The Lord Jesus has had a goal from eternity. The consummation of the work of redemption is a perfect church. He declares His actions to be the manifestation of His love, for He loved her. He made the supreme sacrifice of becoming the guilty one by bearing the sin of the world in His own body on the tree. He gave, surrendered Himself for the Bride. Eph. 5:25 His great motive is to sanctify, to make her to be holy, even as He is holiness personified. The process of holiness is by the washing of the Word. The Bride will be thoroughly living in accordance to the precepts of the Word. Jesus is the word made flesh and the power of the word will make flesh (the Bride) like unto Himself. Eph. 5:26 Only Christ could prepare a Bride for Himself. He knows what He wants in a Bride and is working on her even now. She will be a radiant, glorious Bride. One like unto none other. The fullness of the Glory of the Lord will be resident in her. She will be without spot, no inkling of sin to be found in her. No stain, no blemish nothing of the old life to mar her beauty. No wrinkle, no marks of age or the past. No need of any beauty aids. Perfect in all her ways and appearance. Perfect holiness and completely blameless. Eph. 5:27 OLD TESTAMENT OFFERINGS WERE TO BE PERFECT. Spotless, without a defect of blemish which had never been yoked. Num. 19:2 The Lord was certainly able to keep their animals of sacrifice healthy so that they could sacrifice that which met the standard. Num. 19:2 When it came time for the true sacrifice, the crucifixion of the Lord Jesus. God found a perfect lamb. The only sinless man who was to become sin for every man. Jesus was without blemish or defect of any kind. Had there been even a small flaw in Him, He could not have been made an offering. 1 Pet. 1:19 It is time for His Bride to offer herself as a living sacrifice to Him as an act of spiritual worship. The uncommitted will not be included in the Bride of Christ. He will not marry a nondescript, lukewarm, halfhearted Bride. He is looking for those who will sell out to Him, with the whole heart. Rom. 12:1 A people who do not live worldly lives but are transformed {metamorphoo} or who have under gone a complete heart change and are now being altered from a carnal to a consecrated Christian. Made like unto the Lord Jesus in every aspect of life. Living His life and not our old life of the flesh. Knowing and understanding the full will of the Lord and making it the pattern of our lives in Him. Rom. 12:2 Be one who is executing the high calling of God in Christ Jesus. PSALM FORTY FIVE 41 THE GLORIOUS DAUGHTER OF THE KING. The thing that is impressive is the fact that for all the attire with which she is clothed. It is the inward, the spiritual, that which is within which is glorious. Ps. 45:13 These are they who were not but are now . They are not of one race but are the children of grace, who come from all tongues, tribes and nations. They are the children of His mercy and love. 1 Pet. 2:10 They are termed, A CHOSEN GENERATION. A people of His election. This is a very favored generation in the history of the church. With this generation the Lord will complete His work of salvation. These are the last days. The choice one of the Lord Jesus will come from the present membership of the body of Christ. The Bride will be fully ready for the grand and glorious wedding. Rev. 19:7 They are chosen because they are consecrated and completely dedicated to Christ. A ROYAL PRIESTHOOD. Positional, they minister to the King of Kings. Their ministry reaches into heavenly places. They have immediate and full access to the throne of the living God. They approach His throne with full and complete confidence. Heb. 4:16 In reality, this is the spiritual house offering spiritual sacrifices in their ministry before the Lord. Their work is pleasing to the Lord. 1 Pet. 2:5 A HOLY NATION. The epitome, the consummation, the grand finale of the work of redemption. A people of holiness, righteousness and purity. Holiness is an imperative to seeing the Lord. Heb. 12:14 The status of being holy requires a process and a determination to achieve that to which we have been called. We are to perfect holiness, separated from the works of the flesh. 2 Cor. 7:1 The new creature must become a man of true and complete holiness. Eph. 4:24 A PECULIAR PEOPLE. This is what the Lord wanted to accomplish with the children of Israel when He led them out of Egypt. His desire toward them was that they would become a people who would be obedient to His will and that would keep the covenant that He made with them. Ex. 19:5 Their peculiarity was that they were to be set apart unto the Lord. He is still seeking a people of that nature. Those who are willing to be solely His, set apart, dedicated to fulfill all His desires. The Bride will be His Bride because she has a purpose and dedication, only unto the Lord Jesus. The final work of Calvary is to produce a truly redeemed people whose only desire is to walk before Him in complete purity. A zealous people, striving to enter into the righteousness that is found in the Lord Jesus. They will not be making excuses for their obvious weaknesses but will diligently seek the Lord until they are victorious over every expression and weakness of the flesh. Titus 2:14 Our obligation to the Lord is in total acquiescence to His will that He might achieve His glorious design in His church. The reward is great beyond description. Doing His will has great benefits. PSALM FORTY FIVE 42 MAGNIFICENCE OF THE SPIRIT. All glorious within. Utterly filled with the glory of the presence of the Spirit of the Lord. It may well be said that the WORD is alive and active in her. She has met the standards of the Word. Ps. 45:13 The true New Testament Jew is one inwardly. Where the grace and redeeming blood of Christ has wrought a complete work. A work of circumcision (separation, disconnection) has taken place in the heart by the power of the Spirit. The new creature is in full control and is exerting the force of the Spirit enabling one to live the life of Christ. Rom. 2:29. If Christ is in us and we are in Him. We are that new being, living a new life by the authority of the Word and the Spirit. The old life of sin and unrighteousness is gone. The new prevails and empowers providing the ability to live that new life. 2 Cor. 5:17 There is a consistent refreshing and renewing of the Spirit that is made available, daily, by the moving and procedures of the Word and the Spirit in the spirit nature of man. 2 Cor. 4:16 THE INWARD, THE HIDDEN MAN OF A PURE HEART. The inner man, with the indwelling Spirit of the Lord, will possess qualifications that manifest themselves outwardly. The of a meek or gentle and quiet spirit is of immense value with the Lord. 1 Pet. 3:4 Attaining this stature in the Lord is not always pleasing to the flesh. Nevertheless it is a Divine requirement for membership in the Bride of Christ. We must confront the flesh, the carnal life that tries to usurp authority. The old man must be destroyed by being crucified with Christ. Rom. 6:6 The problems of a worldly, carnal church are multitudinous. The Lord always has a solution. Paul showed the answer by testifying that the world was crucified to him and he to the world. Gal. 6:14 Only by dying to the call, the desires and passions of the carnal nature can we find freedom. There is glorious liberty when that sinful nature has been crucified with Christ. Gal. 5:24 HER CLOTHING OF GREAT EXPENSE. The wedding gown wrought with gold. Gold a type of the eternal being of the Lord and His righteousness. Ps. 45:13 The call of the Spirit to the Zion of God, to the New Jerusalem is to Awake, arouse out of slumber and lethargy to put on the strength of the Lord. Clothe yourself with the Wedding Gown of beauty and splendor. She is the only city of Holiness. The unholy, the unrighteous will in no way be permitted to enter, or in any way be a part of that city. They are excluded forever. Isa. 52:1 The Holy City is identified as being the New Jerusalem. The city that has prepared itself for the great wedding of the Lamb. Rev.21:2 The majesty, the beauty and the glory of that New Jerusalem will far surpass anything that has ever been built by man here on earth. Its builder and maker is God himself. It is the true eternal city. PSALM FORTY FIVE 43 THE PROCLAMATION OF THE LORD. The decree of the Lord made concerning that people whom He has called unto Himself. An edict that will be accomplished in the end of this world. It is directed to the daughter of Zion. Isa. 62:11 There are three things that she is to think upon. The first being; her savior, her redeemer, her Bridegroom is coming. The most important event in the end of the age, for the church, is the marriage of the Lamb and the Bride has made herself ready. Rev. 19:7 Are we prepared for that day? The second; is the reward that He will grant to the faithful. This will be a compensation or the benefit of having arrived at the requirement that is necessary to be in the Bride, which is unity of doctrine. A full and complete understanding of who Christ is. A mature Christian, unblemished and whole, having reached perfection. Having achieved the measure of Christ, being everything that He is. Bone of His bone, etc. Having come to the stature of Christ, possessing the same qualifications, attitudes, quality and Spiritual growth. Eph. 4:13 The third; is His work, that will be the judgments that are revealed against the ungodly nations of the world. THOSE WHO COMPRISE HIS BRIDE ARE SPECIAL. They are identified as . A consecrated, dedicated, separated body of believers. Isa. 62:11 This is not just a name or title that is bestowed upon them but it is a fact of their being, they are HOLY. The challenge to the whole of the church is to be holy, for He is holy. 1 Pet. 1:16 Our actions, our words, the total of our activities and thoughts are to be pure and clean manifesting the Holiness of His Spirit who dwell in us. 1 Pet. 1:15 The only people that He will recognize as the are those who are called the of the Lord. Their foundation is none other than the Lord Jesus Christ. There is NO OTHER foundation possible or acceptable to the Lord than that which has already been laid, the Lord Jesus. 1 Cor. 3:10 There is NO OTHER temple that will be built or occupied by the Lord. He is building a temple that is not the work of the hands of man but His own accomplishment and for His own purposes. When His building is completed it will be His place of dwelling, eternally. Eph. 2:20-22 They are namedor sought after. Isa. 62:12 The redeemed, formerly lost, whom the Lord came to seek and save. Lk. 19:10 They are a people whom He will make to be exactly like Himself. He will transform our fleshly bodies in the likeness of His own glorious body. He will not marry a Bride which does not carry His likeness, in all things. Phil. 3:21 He has sought after and brought to Himself a people who are now termed in Christ Jesus. What they were, circumcision or uncircumcision, no longer has a bearing on their spiritual status but a new creature. Created anew, made to be a spiritual entity in Christ. Gal, 6:15 In this New Testament dispensation neither race, religion, or genealogy will afford one a place in the consummated plan of the Lord. Only a NEW CREATURE. PSALM FORTY FIVE 44 THE ETERNAL CITY, ONE WELL OCCUPIED. A city that is alive, thriving and occupied by the Redeemer and the redeemed. Isa. 62:12 Because attitudes and actions that were contrary to the Lord the city of Jerusalem was forsaken by the Lord and given into the hands of their enemies. Therefore in the eyes of the Lord she was Forsaken, left destitute of His presence. Her land was also named Desolate, as is any country or person who does not serve the Lord. The New Jerusalem is given proper names which reveal the temperament of the Lord toward her. Hepzibah, or my delight is in her. What a beautiful and drastic change in the feelings of the Lord toward the city which He has chosen for His eternal dwelling place. The land will now be called Beulah, to be married. Isa. 62:4 The consummation of the work of the redeemed and of their Redeemer is the glorious, vibrant, living city of God. Well loved of the Lord and married to Him. The Holy City, the throne of the Lord and His residence and Tabernacle. Composed of His Bride of beauty and glory. THE BRIDE BROUGHT WITH GRANDEUR UNTO THE KING. The Spirit and atmosphere of this magnificent moment of time beggars description. There has never been an occasion such as this. The wedding of Christ and His Bride. This is a wedding performed on earth but ordered and contrived in eternity past and in the heavenly. The gown of the Bride is of finest the needlework, embroidered inside and out with variegated colors. Brought to the king into His chambers, in all of her splendor and glory. Her heart cries after the Bridegroom. She is longing to be in His presence. He is her delight and joy because of His great love. His love to supersede all other desires. He is adored. Song 1:4 Is this your heart attitude? IS Jesus more wonderful and precious than all? Glorious moment when the wedding takes place. It was a custom for the daughters of kings to be clothed in robes that were of divers colors and richly ornamented. In this manner it was made known that they were the daughters of royalty. So, the colors of the rainbow, covenant colors will be in the garb of the Bride. 2 Sam. 13:18 The rainbow, with its three colors, yet one rainbow, represent the Triunity of God. The excellency, the completeness of who and what the Lord is will rest upon and fill her innermost being. She will be clothed with the Almighty. CLOTHED AS KINGS AND PRIESTS. Because she is exalted to a position of leadership, as kings and priests Rev. 1:6, it is appropriate that she be clothed accordingly. As the priest was clothed for < beauty and glory > Ex. 28:2,40 So will she too be clothed in splendor and majesty, comely and beautiful will be her appearance. Rest assured, the glory of the latter house will be greater than that of the former. The manifest power and glory of the former was glorious because of His presence. It however was only a physical building. The latter is composed of lively stones and is built up a spiritual house. The former ceased to be. The latter is eternal and everlasting. Hag. 2:9 What a tremendous future awaits the church, the Bride. PSALM FORTY FIVE 45 ENTERING INTO THE PALACE OF THE KING. Being led with joy and gladness into His glorious presence. Ps. 45:15 Great things prepared for the redeemed of the Lord. Their crown is everlasting joy. They enter into Zion, the city of the Most High with singing. Having been clothed with the garments of salvation, fully endowed with all the blessings of salvation one cannot help but sing forth the praises of the Lord. The fullness and beauty of the righteousness of the Lord covering and clothing His Bride. Isa. 61:10 n the occasion of the wedding of the Lamb, the singing is not one sided. Not only will she sing to Him but He will sing to her. When His presence is in the church in fullness and power, He will sing to her. It could only be a love song, the love song of all love songs. A song of true love, of pure, sanctified, perfect, everlasting love. The emotion, called love never reaches a higher pinnacle than that moment when He sings to His Bride. Zeph. 3:17 THE HIGH AND EXALTED POSITION OF THE BRIDE. As those who have overcome, they are granted to share and share alike the throne of heaven. Which is the Father's throne and the throne of the Lord Jesus for He called it . Rev. 3:21 There is only one throne which is occupied by the Triunity called Jehovah and the Bride of Christ. A NEW ORDER, REPLACING THE OLD. No more dependence on the fathers, the old order, but now . Ps. 45:16 The mother of these children is the New Jerusalem, the Bride. The Jerusalem of freedom and liberty. The mother of us all, in particular, the manchild of Rev. 12:5, who will be born to Christ and His Bride. She is not desolate not forsaken but will be married. She has been created by her , her husband. The Lord of Hosts, her redeemer, the Holy One, the living God Himself. Isa. 54:5 Christ will have a Bride. His beloved is His church. Eph. 5:26 A great mystery that is revealed is the scriptures. In particular, in this fifth chapter of Ephesians v.32. This was a message to a future generation and to a people who will be brought into being. The Lord is not by any means finished with the work that He will accomplish in the end of the age. Ps. 102:18 The Bride, a love servant of Jesus Christ, as was Paul. Rom. 1:1. She will bring forth that perfect generation. A nation that will live in His glorious presence. A seed that is eternal, everlasting. Ps. 102:28 A posterity that is born, sinless and eternal. They are born of parents that have been redeemed from sin and unrighteousness. The woman of Revelation twelve is obviously a married woman. She is the true church. She is surrounded by light bearing bodies. Clothed with light, the sun {typical of the Father}, standing on the moon {the Son}, which reflects the light of the sun. Crowned with stars {or suns}, Spiritual leadership filled with the Spirit}. She is light, she is truth, she is righteous. She and their son will complete the mystery of God. The Lord will have His sinless race who will occupy eternity and heaven. The seed that will serve Him, is called a generation. A people that shall be born. Ps. 22:30-31 completed 24 Jun 2002 edited RA 17:30 16-09-03