The author found himself becoming very discouraged in trying to share the truth of God with others. It just seems that there are very few people that want to hear or read the Word of God as was spoken with power (the gospel) and walked in example by Jesus Christ. The author had been very dedicated and spent many many hours writing down the precious things of God, but just who has ears to hear or eyes to see? So many hearts are waxed gross and their ears are dull of hearing. Many say they see, yet are fully blind (Mt 13:15, Jn 9:39).

 

Even those closest to the author tired of hearing the beloved truth of the Lord. He has been called mad/crazy by some, and others, including some friends and family members, have separated from his company. The author was absolutely certain of the truth of the message, but just began to be weary (worn down) due to all the rejection.

 

The author considered the fact that he could not just stop speaking and writing God’s truth and simply keep to himself the cherished things that the Lord was revealing. This would be to hide your light (truth) and put it under a bushel (Mt 5:15). This would be to lay up the truth in a napkin or hide the truth in the earth (Lk 19:20-23, Mt 25:25-28). This is to be as salt that has lost his savour (Mt 5:13).

 

However, we are to give light unto all that are in the house (Mt 5:15). Matthew 5:16, “Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.” A candle (light) must be set upon a candlestick so that all may see (Mk 4:21). There is a great responsibility and obligation (a commandment) to speak and demonstrate the Lord’s gospel (Mk 16:15, Mt 24:14) - not only to believe on him, but also to suffer for his sake (Php 1:29, 2 Thess 1:5, 2 Tim 2:12).

 

The Lord spoke to the author’s heart and revealed something precious that brought about the needed encouragment – a reminder (a help to remember something important). The Lord said that man rejected Him when He spoke the Father’s Word, so how much more will you be rejected when you speak My Words (Jn 15:18)? Luke 21:17, “And ye shall be hated of all men for my name’s sake.” This was so incredibly encouraging to me, but why? Because it revealed to me something desired more than anything this world has to offer – it revealed that I was walking in the steps of my Lord (1 Pt 2:21, 4:1).

 

The author was not being offered a solution to end all of the rejection or necessarily a remedy to remove the hurt. The author was being offered a cross and a narrow path to continue to walk in (Mt 7:13-14, 16:24, Mk 8:34, 10:21, Lk 9:23, Jn 14:6) – just as Christ had walked. This was more beneficial and prized (valuable). This was a treasure and a pearl of great price (Mt 13:44-46, 19:21). Luke 6:40, “The disciple is not above his master: but every one that is perfect shall be as his master.” AND Matthew 10:24-25, “The disciple is not above his master, nor the servant above his lord. It is enough for the disciple that he be as his master, and the servant as his lord. If they have called the master of the house Beelzebub, how much more shall they call them of his household?” 2 Timothy 3:12, “Yea, and all that will live godly in Christ Jesus shall suffer persecution.” After all, Jesus learned obedience by the things which He suffered – and so shall His followers (Heb 5:8-9).

 

The Lord plainly tells us: Luke 6:22-23, “Blessed are ye, when men shall hate you, and when they shall separate you from their company, and shall reproach you, and cast out your name as evil, for the Son of man’s sake. Rejoice ye in that day, and leap for joy: for, behold, your reward is great in heaven: for in the like manner did their fathers unto the prophets.” So: 1 Peter 5:9, “Whom resist stedfast in the faith, knowing that the same afflictions are accomplished in your brethren that are in the world.” Your not alone in your tribulations – Jesus endured suffering and so do all His followers.

 

Now there are many religious people in this world and most claim to be following Christ. The truth of the claim is revealed when your life actually lines up (aligns) with the example that Jesus walked (Jn 15:20). This is how we must judge ourselves (2 Cor 13:5). Jesus said we would be judged by His Words (which He walked flawlessly); so Christ’s Words are our standard to live by (Jn 12:48). The religious world claims to practice or adhere to God’s Word, but mostly ignors or explains away the hard things – those things that come against the will of the flesh - those things that require sacrifice. These often compromise away the meat of the message that was spoken of God in the person of Jesus Christ (the Word of God made flesh).

 

Examples might be: being hated by others (not popular, Mt 5:10-12, Lk 6:22); losing your life for Christ’s sake and the gospel’s (Mt 10:39, 16:25, Mk 8:35, Lk 9:24); bearing your cross (dying to self, Lk 14:27); forsaking all that you have (Lk 14:33); not loving the world or seeking fleshly lusts, desires or possessions (or walking in the course of this world, 1 Jn 2:15-17); placing Jesus before father, and mother, and wife, and children, and brethren, and sisters, yea, and your own life (Lk 14:26); bearing the injuries of others (forgiveness, Mt 6:15, Mk 11:26); and loving your enemies (Mt 5:43-45). These things are often explained away by religious man thus making Christ’s Words of none effect (effect - to promote needed change).

 

There are many hard truths in the Bible and it is certain that a true follower (disciple) of Jesus will experience everything that Christ experienced. 1 John 2:6, “He that saith he abideth in him ought himself also so to walk, even as he walked.” AND Colossians 2:6, “As ye have therefore received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk ye in him.” Jesus is the firstborn of many brethren (Rm 8:29). Brethren are brothers whereby one resembles the other in nature and experience. Jesus forged a path that His disciples must follow along – for He is the Shepherd and they are His sheep (Jn 10:27). He goeth before them (Jn 10:4). Galatians 5:25, “If we live in the Spirit, let us also walk in the Spirit.”

 

One of the things a follower of Christ quickly learns is that man has consistently rejected God and His Word from the very beginning. When Jesus came (the Word of God made flesh) speaking God’s Words, He was soundly rejected by those who claimed to serve God – meaning religious man. Jesus said of His followers: John 17:14, “I have given them thy word; and the world hath hated them, because they are not of the world, even as I am not of the world.” If Jesus is hated by the world then His disciples must also be hated by the world – thus you know that you are following Christ.

 

Why are they hated? They are hated because of God’s Word or truth. The world is in rebellion against this truth. The world walks opposite of the truth. Christ sanctifies (sets apart) His followers in God’s truth. John 17:17, “Sanctify them through thy truth: thy word is truth (also Jn 17:19).” So: Luke 10:16, “He that heareth you heareth me; and he that despiseth you despiseth me; and he that despiseth me despiseth him that sent me.” God’s Word is the real issue here!

 

Therefore: If you walk as Jesus walked and speak His Words, then the world will hate and reject you just as it did Jesus. John 13:16, “Verily, verily, I say unto you, The servant is not greater than his lord; neither he that is sent greater than he that sent him.” AND John 15:20, “Remember the word that I said unto you, The servant is not greater than his lord. If they have persecuted me, they will also persecute you; if they have kept my saying, they will keep yours also.” What we are being told is that by and large rejection is an expected condition of speaking the truth of God’s Word. Christ’s disciples perfectly follow Him in all things including being persecuted, rejected, hated and despised. Only the humble (self denying) will receive God’s truth.

 

Conversely, if your message is being well received by a large audience (such as authoring a very popular book), then you have cause for concern (1 Jn 4:5). The world loves its own (Jn 15:19)! Jesus spoke to and was rejected by a very religious people who thought they knew and served God. This was quite a disconnect in that God (the Word) became flesh and spoke God’s Word or truth to His own people only to be rejected by them. Christ’s message (which was the Father’s Word) was rejected by religious man. John 1:10-11, “He was in the world, and the world was made by him, and the world knew him not. He came unto his own, and his own received him not.”

 

Do not be surprised that the exact same condition exists today in so many of those who claim to know and serve Jesus Christ. In other words, many claim to follow Jesus, but they do not know Him. These same one’s who claim to follow Jesus (with mental acknowledgement) will actually reject walking the path that Jesus walked. God’s truth quickly separates the light from the darkness (2 Cor 6:14-18). Many “identify” with God’s Word, but who “practices” God’s Word? Jesus said: Matthew 7:20, “Wherefore by their fruits ye shall know them.”

 

God’s Word is so divisive! The Word of God quickly separates the real from the false. The majority of man, including much of what calls itself Christian, has rejected the Word of God. How so? They have not “received” God’s Word in that they will not apply it to their lives and actually walk therein. Most of the religious world has a “free gift” and “cheap grace” doctrinal theology that essentially believes that Jesus did everything (and He is worthy) and nothing is required of man (that through Christ sin may abound???). They bandy about (pass about freely and carelessly, exchange in argumentative manner) the ill-advised (unwise, misguided, foolhardy) phrase: “works do not save.”

 

This outlook has nullified the Word of God and made it of none effect. It is so much easier to accept (as in some mental acknowledgment) or tolerate the words of another (Jesus) when you do not believe that you must actually walk them (live them) or be held accountable to them. However, we must OBEY the truth (Rm 2:8, 2 Thess 2:8, Gal 5:7)! Nothing is so easy as to deny that which is not agreeable to your own desire. Oh it was just fine when Jesus walked the narrow way; however, Jesus always said, Come, follow Me.” Jesus is telling you dear reader to “follow.” Let us understand what “works” means.

 

Modern Christian thinking is that if you “accept” Jesus (as in some repeated sinner’s prayer) that you will somehow be exempt from having to walk and live the things Jesus said – confusion? – its all so surreal. They distort (do not understand) and are ignorant of the verses: Ephesians 2:8-9, “For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: Not of works, lest any man should boast.” The underlined words are what modern popular Christianity stresses (emphasizes).

 

Understanding “grace” and “faith” is the key! God’s grace is the Holy Spirit of grace working in you to accomplish the Lord’s purposes (Acts 4:31-33, Php 1:25, 2:13, Heb 10:29). The Holy Spirit is the gift! Grace = gift = Holy Ghost! Peter said it well: Acts 2:38, “Then Peter said unto them, Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost (also Acts 10:45).” Paul said: 2 Corinthians 9:14-15, “And by their prayer for you, which long after you for the exceeding grace of God in you. Thanks be unto God for his unspeakable gift.” The grace in you or unspeakable gift is the Holy Ghost which dwells within you (1 Cor 3:16, 1 Jn 4:13).

 

Faith is your free-will (not coerced, must be sincere and genuine) submission, obedience, love, trust and devotion toward God. When such faith is coupled with the Holy Ghost’s working in you, then God’s will is accomplished (Acts 5:32, Rm 4:16, 5:1-2, 5, Php 1:6, 2:12-13, 15). This results in a “change” of condition! Rather than denying God to seek self, you will now deny self to seek God. Such “change” will turn your life upside down – a complete change of direction! You shall be renewed in knowledge after the image of him that created him (Col 3:10).

 

Iniquity, which is the transgression of God’s will, is destroyed because those who fear God depart from that which opposes God. If God’s Word is not mixed (joined, united or blended) with such faith it does not profit the hearer (Heb 4:2). True faith as led by the Spirit is what saves you and Christ’s death made it possible.

 

Christ’s life and death provided four essential things: 1) God’s truth; 2) an example to follow; 3) forgiveness of past sins; and 4) the ability and means to follow – namely, the Holy Ghost. You must “conform” to the will of God which is found in Christ (Rm 8:29, 12:2). Colossians 2:10, “And ye are complete in him, which is the head of all principality and power.” Jesus is well pleasing to God! Following Christ by faith through the leading of His Spirit makes you well pleasing to God! This cannot be achieved soley through your own works – no one will be able to boast of such.

 

Peter said: “through sanctification of the Spirit, unto obedience and sprinkling of the blood of Jesus Christ God hath begotten us in His mercy (1 Pt 1:2-3).” The sprinkling of Christ’s blood is forgiveness of past sin (transgressions against God’s will, Rm 3:25, 1 Jn 2:2). Being “set apart” by the Spirit unto obedience is the Holy Ghost leading you through your faith. God forgives past sin for a purpose – to transform you (born again, 1 Pt 1:23) into what you were originally intended to be (before corruption, 1 Pt 1:14-16) – to make you perfect – in His image (Mt 5:48, Lk 6:40, Rm 12:2, 2 Cor 13:11, 2 Tim 3:17, Heb 13:21, 1 Pt 5:10, Rev 3:2). This image is found in Christ – look unto Him and follow. Peter goes on to say: “kept by the power of God through faith unto salvation (1 Pt 1:5). We shall understand that the power of God is the Holy Spirit. AND “ye have purified your souls in obeying the truth through the Spirit (1 Pt 1:22).”

 

Webster’s 1828 dictionary defines “grace” as divine influence or the influence of the Spirit in renewing the heart and restraining from sin. We are “quickened (made alive)” by the Spirit: Ephesians 2:5, “Even when we were dead in sins, hath quickened us together with Christ, (by grace ye are saved;).” The Spirit of God + man’s faith = path of righteousness. The Lord leads in the way of righteousness (Pv 8:20, 12:28, Ps 23:3, Rm 8:14). This means that the Holy Spirit will NEVER lead you to remain in sin/bondage.

 

Jesus’ death provided the means of reconciliation with God. Reconciliation with God is based upon a free-will desire to serve God – to seek Him with all of your heart. This desire must be demonstrated in your life. You must have virtue whereby you voluntarily seek God and walk in His truth. Faith is never coerced/forced, but must come forth freely from a willing heart. Therefore, only the humble (self denying) can possibly come to this position. You can “say” all you want, but God observes them that “do.”

 

Its not your works that save you, but rather your obedience to the Spirit’s leading and teaching – the Holy Spirit working to transform you into the image of Christ. Titus 3:5, “Not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to his mercy he saved us, by the washing of regeneration, and renewing of the Holy Ghost.” You are changed into the same image from glory to glory, even as by the Spirit of the Lord (1 Cor 3:18). Jesus is able to do exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that worketh in us (Eph 3:20). First you receive the Holy Spirit and then your heart is purified by faith as you obey His Word (Acts 15:8-9, Eph 5:26). - the work of faith with power (2 Thess 1:11). In other words, we have access by faith into this grace wherein we stand (Rm 5:2, also Gal 5:5). This is so elementary (baby food – milk, not meat, 1 Cor 3:2), yet so completely misunderstood by a religious world.

 

Obedience is not your “own” work toward “earning” salvation, but rather submitting to the will of another, who is God. Obedience is a free-will sacrifice of self offered to God (the opposite of what man did in Eden). Your obedience to God’s will produces God’s works and not your own works. To “obey” God’s will and thereby produce God’s works actually requires that you “die” to (forsake) your own will and thus forfeit your own works. So, its not your works of righteousness, but rather God’s through His Spirit. Don’t be lost in religious confusion that contradicts the bulk of God’s Word by having you think that nothing is required of you.

 

Consider God’s intent: Hebrews 10:15-17, “Whereof the Holy Ghost also is a witness to us: for after that he had said before, This is the covenant that I will make with them after those days, saith the Lord, I will put my laws into their hearts, and in their minds will I write them; And their sins and iniquities will I remember no more.” How are they put there? 2 Corinthians 3:3, “Forasmuch as ye are manifestly declared to be the epistle of Christ ministered by us, written not with ink, but with the Spirit of the living God; not in tables of stone, but in fleshy tables of the heart.”

 

This speaks of the Holy Ghost and His leading and teaching. For what intent? Titus 2:11-14, “For the grace of God that bringeth salvation hath appeared to all men, Teaching us that, denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, we should live soberly, righteously, and godly, in this present world; Looking for that blessed hope, and the glorious appearing of the great God and our Saviour Jesus Christ; Who gave himself for us, that he might redeem us from all iniquity, and purify unto himself a peculiar people, zealous of good works. ALSO consider: Galatians 1:4, “Who gave himself for our sins, that he might deliver us from this present evil world, according to the will of God and our Father.” So: God’s grace (Holy Spirit) in you bringeth salvation – the Spirit “brings about” salvation in you by teaching you to forsake those things that oppose God.

 

Once you understand “faith” and “grace,” then the follow-on verse to the above Ephesians verses makes sense (usually omitted by religious man): Ephesians 2:10, “For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them.” The result of your faith yielding to the Holy Ghost is good works known as the fruit of the Spirit (Gal 5:22-23, Eph 5:9, Rm 6:22, 7:4). Faith must yield good works (Js 2:17-26, 3:17). May Jesus stablish you in every good word and work (2 Thess 2:16-17).” Therefore: Colossians 1:10-11, “That ye might walk worthy of the Lord unto all pleasing, being fruitful in every good work, and increasing in the knowledge of God; Strengthened with all might, according to his glorious power, unto all patience and longsuffering with joyfulness.”

 

Christ’s sacrifice was so that “we might be made the righteousness of God in Him (2 Cor 5:21).” We are “made” righteous through obedience to the Holy Ghost. So: 1 Peter 1:5, “Who are kept by the power of God through faith unto salvation ready to be revealed in the last time.” (The “power of God” = the Holy Ghost) + your faith = salvation.

 

Why did John the Baptist place such an emphasis that Jesus would baptize with the Holy Ghost (Mt 3:11, Mk 1:8, Lk 3:16, Jn 1:33, Acts 1:5)? Why did Jesus say it was expedient that He go away such that the Holy Ghost would come (Jn 7:39, 14:26, 16:7, 20:22)? Why did Christ insist that His disciples tarry at Jerusalem until they received power from on high (Lk 24:49, Acts 1:4, 8, 2:2-4)?

 

The reason is so clear! The Holy Ghost is the grace of God. The Holy Ghost is the promise of God. The Holy Ghost is the gift of God (Rm 5:15-21). The Holy Ghost is the power of God (Jn 1:12, Lk 24:49, Acts 1:8, 2 Thess 1:11, 1 Pt 1:15). The Holy Ghost = God’s grace = God’s promise = God’s gift = power of God. Faith without works (Holy Spirit’s teaching/leading) is dead (Js 2:17, 20, 26)! Faith must produce God’s purposes to have merit. Faith must “change” you – transform.

 

Please understand: “the free gift came upon all men unto justification of life (Rm 5:18).” The Holy Spirit came upon man at Pentecost because Jesus, the baptizer of the Holy Spirit, received this promise from the Father and shed it forth (Acts 2:1-4, 33). By the obedience of one (Jesus) shall many be made righteous (Rm 5:19). We are “made” righteous by the workings of the Holy Spirit through our faith (submission, obedience). John 1:12, “But as many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name.” The “power to become” is the Holy Spirit working to transform you to God’s expectations. Therefore: Romans 8:14, “For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, they are the sons of God.”

 

The Holy Ghost is your comforter, teacher and guide to conform you to Christ’s well pleasing image such that you become a son of God. Consider what Peter told the Jews after the Holy Ghost had come upon the Gentiles: Acts 11:16-17, “Then remembered I the word of the Lord, how that he said, John indeed baptized with water; but ye shall be baptized with the Holy Ghost. Forasmuch then as God gave them the like gift as he did unto us, who believed on the Lord Jesus Christ; what was I, that I could withstand God?”

 

Understand that grace is not simply unmerited favor in the sense that God just looks the other way (a concept completely contrary to God’s Word) or does not hold you accountable for the evil that you continue to do (walking in darkness). God does not look the other way and this is why Jesus had to suffer man’s condemnation of “thou shall surely die.” Grace is actually the Holy Spirit working in you to transform you into the image of Christ. Once you comprehend this, then scripture makes sense and verses no longer conflict with one another.

 

Those who are sojourning in this world and seeking God quickly come to the knowledge that there are two different “Christs” preached and proclaimed. 1) One group (the majority) preach a Jesus who justifies you in your sin (Gal 1:6-7). They essentially say in so many confused religious reasonings that Jesus is a covering for man’s continued sin because man is incapable of stopping – a “not perfect just forgiven” mentality. This is to hold the truth in unrighteousness (Rm 1:18). 2) The other group (a minority) preach a Jesus who delivers you from your sin. They say that Jesus came to free you from the bondage of sin that you may be reconciled to God and freely serve Him – by My Spirit saith the Lord. If the fruit of your doings has not changed with regards to Christ, then what has Jesus availed you? If you are still burdened by sin, then how are you free?

 

These groups may sound similar at times, but are eternally different. You must choose very wisely based upon sincerely seeking God and placing His Word (truth) in your heart. Christ’s first Words concerning the time in which we live were: “Take heed that no man deceive you (Mt 24:4).” Jesus came to lead in mercy, truth and righteousness (by My Spirit) and this is the key to understanding. Who shall ultimately prevail? 1) Man through the justification of his transgressions against the will of God OR 2) God through the purging of all transgressions against His will? Is sin justified or erradicated? What prevails – the lie or the truth?

 

Can one be found “wicked (sinful, transgressing of God’s will)” in Christ Jesus? If one kills in the name of Jesus (as in war), does that make him innocent (Mt 5:43-45)? If a thief steals (or is adulterous, lying, hating, etc.) in the name of Jesus is he no longer guilty? Hebrews 10:26, “For if we sin wilfully after that we have received the knowledge of the truth, there remaineth no more sacrifice for sins (also Ez 3:19-20, 18:26, 33:12-13, 18).” You must again sincerely repent and forsake such evils to be found in Christ. Continued sin nullifies any “forgiveness” given. You cannot be forgiven to continue to violate the thing you were forgiven – that would void the meaning of the word and the action.

 

The issue is that many have made “peace” with sin rather than “overcoming” sin. For most, the battle is over – they say you can’t live a “perfect” life acceptable to God and that Christ’s blood is a covering for your continued sinfulness. In other words, they are in agreement with the devil that you can sin against God and “ye shall not surely die,” Yet Jesus said: Matthew 5:48, “Be ye therefore perfect, even as your Father which is in heaven is perfect.” The Lord also says: 1 Peter 1:15-16, “But as he which hath called you is holy, so be ye holy in all manner of conversation (lifestyle); Because it is written, Be ye holy; for I am holy.” 1 John 5:4, “For whatsoever is born of God overcometh the world: and this is the victory that overcometh the world, even our faith.” Does God require us to do something that cannot be done? This reasoning will not stand because God has given us His Spirit.

 

I say this to those who have made peace with sin: 1 Corinthians 15:34, “Awake to righteousness, and sin not; for some have not the knowledge of God: I speak this to your shame.”

 

The Holy Ghost is the grace of God that leads one in truth unto righteousness. However, religious man attributes the grace of God as a covering for unrighteousness which is only found in the devil’s lie. They essentially say, through so many religious words and doctrines, that grace is God not acknowledging or holding you accountable for continued transgressions – because you cannot stop sinning. Can you see how this is utterly contrary to the Holy Spirit’s work and a denial thereof. The only thing they are justifying is sin and they make Christ the Lord of sin – He who brings license?

 

What does the Lord expect? “To him that overcometh will I give to eat of the tree of life, which is in the midst of the paradise of God (Rev 2:7).” This verse EQUALS = Revelation 22:14, “Blessed are they that do his commandments, that they may have right to the tree of life, and may enter in through the gates into the city.” Those who overcome do the Lord’s commandments and have life! --- its all so simple!

 

Now consider: Revelation 2:26, “And he that overcometh, and keepeth my works unto the end, to him will I give power over the nations.” AND Revelation 3:5, “He that overcometh, the same shall be clothed in white raiment; and I will not blot out his name out of the book of life, but I will confess his name before my Father, and before his angels.” So, is overcoming no more than repeating a prayer that is not even of your own making (i.e. a sinner’s prayer)? Is overcoming “saying” and not “doing?” Your eternal destiny is based upon correct understanding. If you do not “overcome,” then you will not be found in the Lamb’s book of life!

 

Lets get right to the cruxed of the matter: Revelation 3:21, “To him that overcometh will I grant to sit with me in my throne, even as I also overcame, and am set down with my Father in his throne.” This brings us back to “following” Jesus and walking as He walked (Col 2:6, 1 Jn 2:6, 1 Pt 2:21). This reveals that we must conform to His image (Rm 8:29, 2 Cor 3:18, Col 3:10). There is a narrow way that must be trod with cross in hand and no true disciple of Christ will travel it any other way (Mt 10:38, 16:24, Mk 8:34, 10:21, Lk 9:23, 14:27).

 

Oh, there is still a battle raging (with eternal consequences) irregardless if you are in it or have again been taken “captive” by the enemy. 2 Timothy 2:26, “And that they may recover themselves out of the snare of the devil, who are taken captive by him at his will.” There are those who are “free” and those who are “bound.” Jesus came to “free;” are you still bound? The “bound” are in Satan’s prison house!

 

God’s Word never contradicts itself when it is properly understood and applied. How does one separate grace from the Spirit of God working in you? God never, under any circumstances, accepts transgression of His will (disobedience to His commandments). God does not oppose His own truth! God does not justify the wicked and will by no means clear the guilty (Ex 23:7, 34:7, Deut 25:1, Pv 17:15, Is 5:23). The Lord does not overlook evil.

 

If you believe that Jesus came to justify or provide a covering for sinful behavior, then you have completely “missed” God’s purposes. Satan is the author of the lie that proposes you can transgress the will of God and “ye shall not surely die (Gen 3:4).” This proposition completely opposed God’s Word of “thou shalt surely die (Gen 2:17).” Pick your side! Are you walking in Satan’s lie?

 

Many religious men (Mt 7:15) would have you believe that Jesus came to justify you in your sin and disobedience to God’s Word. Galatians 2:17, “But if, while we seek to be justified by Christ, we ourselves also are found sinners, is therefore Christ the minister of sin? God forbid.” Shall the throne of iniquity have fellowship with thee (Ps 94:20)? A false prophet’s message always has the implication that you can disobey God (through Christ) and “ye shall not surely die (Gen 3:4).” This is the devil’s lie! They will say that you can never measure up to God’s expectations and that you must live vicariously through Christ. To be vicarious is essentially to share-in or undergo another’s experience through “imagined participation.” This reasoning utterly negates everything the Holy Spirit is sent to do and absolutely opposes God’s purposes.

 

For those who say they love Jesus, but walk in darkness; know this: God always says: “I will not justify the wicked (Ex 23:7, Pv 17:15).” Jesus in no way came to justify the wicked (Jn 3:19)! 1 John 1:6, “If we say that we have fellowship with him, and walk in darkness, we lie, and do not the truth.” Jesus is not a covering for continued wickedness (sin, iniquity, transgression of God’s will). Those who continue in darkness only prove the insincerity of any commitment they may have made to Christ (Pv 14:16, 16:17).

 

So, is it possible to be correct with a theology of “works do not save” and that what you do does not contribute to salvation? Paul said of such: Titus 1:16, “They profess that they know God; but in works they deny him, being abominable, and disobedient, and unto every good work reprobate.” How can you say you are saved by God irregardless of your actions toward God? Did this theology (once saved always saved way of thinking) work for Adam? Didn’t such opposition to God’s will bring sin, death and so much misery into the world?

 

Jesus said: Luke 13:24, “Strive to enter in at the strait gate: for many, I say unto you, will seek to enter in, and shall not be able.” – to be accounted worthy to obtain (Lk 20:35, 21:36). Peter said: “be diligent that ye may be found of him in peace, without spot, and blameless (2 Pt 3:14).” Paul said: 1 Corinthians 9:24, “Know ye not that they which run in a race run all, but one receiveth the prize? So run, that ye may obtain.” John said: 1 John 3:3, “And every man that hath this hope in him purifieth himself, even as he is pure.” AND 1 John 5:18, “We know that whosoever is born of God sinneth not; but he that is begotten of God keepeth himself, and that wicked one toucheth him not.” To strive, be diligent, run that you may obtain, purify yourself, sinneth not, and keepeth himself all speak of effort that results from your faith (submission, obedience and devotion to God).

 

There are some things that are monumentally important to understand. First of all, we are held accountable to Christ’s Words: John 12:48, “He that rejecteth me, and receiveth not my words, hath one that judgeth him: the word that I have spoken, the same shall judge him in the last day.” Secondly, the application of God’s Word to your life shall determine if you “received” Jesus’ Words. In other words if Jesus said “stop” and you “go,” then obviously you did not “receive” what He said as proved by your actions. Christ said: Matthew 16:27, “For the Son of man shall come in the glory of his Father with his angels; and then he shall reward every man according to his works.” AND John 5:29, “And shall come forth; they that have done good, unto the resurrection of life; and they that have done evil, unto the resurrection of damnation.”

 

You will be judged by your works and deeds: Romans 2:6-9, “Who will render to every man according to his deeds: To them who by patient continuance in well doing seek for glory and honour and immortality, eternal life: But unto them that are contentious, and do not obey the truth, but obey unrighteousness, indignation and wrath, Tribulation and anguish, upon every soul of man that doeth evil, of the Jew first, and also of the Gentile.” Every man’s work will be revealed according to his ways (Job 34:11, Eccl 3:17, 11:9, 12:14, 2 Kg 8:39, Ps 62:12, Pv 24:12, 29, Is 59:18, Jer 17:10, 25:14, 32:19, Ez 7:3-4, 8-9, 27, Oba 1:15, Zech 1:6, Mt 12:36-37, 16:27, Jn 5:29, Rm 2:6, 16, 14:12, 1 Cor 3:13, 4:5, 2 Cor 5:10, Col 3:24-25, 2 Tim 4:1, 1 Pt 1:17, 4:5, Jude 1:15, Rev 2:23, 20:12-13, 22:12). So, works and deeds really do matter.

 

Therefore, how does God judge? “Without respect of persons judgeth according to every man’s work (1 Pt 1:17).” A simple profession (mental acknowledgment) of Christ without a walk of faith will fall short – even so, Christ judges the very intent of the heart.

The following writing came about as the Lord began to show the author just how God (and His truth) has been rejected by man from the beginning. The world loves it’s own, but has rejected God. John 15:19, “If ye were of the world, the world would love his own: but because ye are not of the world, but I have chosen you out of the world, therefore the world hateth you.” That verse reveals how standing on the side of the Lord and speaking His Word will set you up for rejection by the world.

 

If you love the world (it’s ways, path, culture, etc.), then the world will love you. It is only when you come against the world that you are rejected. When you walk in step with Jesus, you walk out of step with the world (vice versa). Jesus said concerning the world: “but me it hateth, because I testify of it, that the works thereof are evil (Jn 7:7, Gal 1:4).” To speak God’s Word or truth is to come against the world and testify that its works are evil. Is it any wonder that you would be continually rejected? Natural man loves the darkness/world rather than the light/truth (Jn 3:19-21). If the majority of mankind loves the world and you speak against the world, then where does that leave you while being in the world?

 

Let me tell you dear reader, it is very hard to stand against this world. No one can do it in their own power for a sustained period of time. You must be walking in God’s truth and be empowered by the Holy Spirit. If you are walking in God’s truth and you desire to do His will, then God will make a way – but you have to really want it. It is so easy to go along with the flow of this world; there is no persecution in compromise – neither is there a witness for God.

 

The free flow of this world is as a mighty river flowing over a cliff and down into a great abyss. Shouldn’t you fight against such a current with all your might? Is going against the current (gravity) ever easy? You are either traveling with/in the current or you are fighting against the current. The Lord saves/rescues those who are fighting against the current. The Lord helps you in your struggles to reach Him, but never in your concession to the world’s flow.

 

The following writing will reveal man’s initial rejection of God and then will specifically move on to how man has rejected the Word of God made flesh called Jesus the Son of the Highest who was sent from God (Lk 1:31-32). Man is blinded by the flesh and remains that way when he will not “receive” and “walk in” the Word of God. Jesus came that the blind might see and those who see might be made blind (Jn 9:39).

 

The Lord has been longsuffering toward the world and His Word does not return void and accomplishes that which He pleases, and it prospers in the thing whereto He sends it (Is 55:11, also Is 45:23). The Lord says concerning His purposes: “I have spoken it, I will also bring it to pass; I have purposed it, I will also do it (Is 46:11).” The Lord desires the “few” who have ears to hear (Jn 6:40). Jesus often said: “He that hath ears to hear, let him hear (Mt 11:15, 13:9, 43, Mk 4:9, 23, 7:16, 8:18, Lk 8:8, 14:35).” Shall we hear?

 

Jesus once profoundly touched a blind man’s life; this man later said: “one thing I know, that, whereas I was blind, now I see.” The only blind men that were healed were those who sought (cried out) God for sight (Mt 9:27-29, 20:30-34, 21:14, Mk 10:46-52)! Shall we see? Shall we cry out to the Lord for sight? God desires the “few” who will hear and apply His Word and see to walk His path…

 

Whom hath God called? Isaiah 43:7-8, “Even every one that is called by my name: for I have created him for my glory, I have formed him; yea, I have made him. Bring forth the blind people that have eyes, and the deaf that have ears.” For I will pour water upon him that is thirsty (Is 44:3, Mt 5:6). The water is the Holy Ghost (Jn 4:7-15, 7:38-39).

 

If you have eyes to see and ears to hear – if you hunger and thirst for righteousness, then God can work in you.

 

 

In the beginning God created man in His own image and placed man in a beautiful garden (Gen 1:26-27, 2:7-8, 15). God gave man His Word: Genesis 2:16-17, “And the LORD God commanded the man, saying, Of every tree of the garden thou mayest freely eat: But of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil, thou shalt not eat of it: for in the day that thou eatest thereof thou shalt surely die.” In other words, if man disobeyed God’s Word and ate from the forbidden tree, he would surely die.

 

The devil entered the garden through a serpent (Gen 3:1). The serpent told man that he could disobey God and eat from the forbidden tree and that “ye shall not surely die (Gen 3:4).” The devil’s word was utterly contrary (completely opposite) to God’s Word. The devil changed the truth of God into a lie (Rm 1:25).

 

Man obeyed the devil’s word and rejected God’s Word (Gen 3:6-13). Man chose that which was opposed to God! Man did not obey the truth, but obeyed unrighteousness (Rm 2:6-9). To reject the truth is to obey a lie – for no lie is of the truth (1 Jn 2:21). God’s Word required a denial of self-will in order to obey God’s will. The devil’s word embraced self-will and thus denied God’s will (Word/commandment). The devil’s word benefited the flesh and offered that which was forbidden.

 

Man elevated (exalted) his flesh over God’s Word in seeking its lust and desire. Man rejected God in favor of self. To disobey God and walk in your own will/way is to rebel against your Creator. This exaltation of self is known as “pride.” Pride always goes before destruction and this is the broad way in which the devil leads (Pv 16:18). Man chose to be as a god and decide good and evil for himself rather than submit to and obey the one true God (Gen 3:5). Romans 3:16-18, “Destruction and misery are in their ways: And the way of peace have they not known: There is no fear of God before their eyes.”

 

The devil overcame man through his craftiness and man lost his standing with God. “For of whom a man is overcome, of the same is he brought in bondage (2 Pt 2:19). Oh, who shall redeem us from such bondage and death??? Sadly, we shall discover that most do not necesserily want to be redeemed when they discover that they must relinquish self-will (to be as a god).

 

 

One thing is clear throughout God’s Word and that is that disobedience to the will of God brings forth death. God is the giver of life and there is no life apart from Him (Gen 2:7). Romans 5:12, “Wherefore, as by one man sin entered into the world, and death by sin; and so death passed upon all men, for that all have sinned.”

 

God told man that the day he disobeyed His will (commandment) that “thou shalt surely die.” This condemnation is an expected and eternal conclusion for those who do not reverence their Creator (Ps 119:4). The truth of this statement still stands and always shall.

 

God is your life! If you remove yourself from God, then you remove yourself from your life – plain and simple. The creation does not have life within itself – it is not self sustaining. God created you! Shouldn’t you love and be devoted to the One who gave you life? Shouldn’t you reverence and obey Him?

 

Satan is a created being who deceived man in saying: “ye shall not surely die.” The devil has no life to give and can only offer death, through bondage in his lie and rebellion. This rebellion shall not stand and its only purpose in temporaily continuing is to shake that which can be shaken so as to remove the chaff. God prevails in every way – He retains that which has been tried and tested and is pure.

 

 

Man has been disobedient and rebellious toward his Creator. Man has violated God’s will and is under the condemnation of death. The Lord God has no further obligation toward man and can certainly carry out the sentence of death at His discretion (Rm 5:16). However, God is a merciful God - longsuffering toward man, not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance (2 Pt 3:9, Ps 103:10). Psalms 85:4-7, “Turn us, O God of our salvation, and cause thine anger toward us to cease. Wilt thou be angry with us for ever? wilt thou draw out thine anger to all generations? Wilt thou not revive us again: that thy people may rejoice in thee? Shew us thy mercy, O LORD, and grant us thy salvation.”

 

God’s mercy and forgiveness can only be obtained through God’s determined way which is always found in His truth. We shall only understand God’s path of salvation when we understand: Psalms 85:10, “Mercy and truth are met together; righteousness and peace have kissed each other.” Can there be mercy outside of God’s truth? Can there be peace with God apart from righteousness?

 

For it is said of God (and Christ’s throne): Psalms 89:14, “Justice and judgment are the habitation of thy throne: mercy and truth shall go before thy face.” AND Isaiah 16:5, “And in mercy shall the throne be established: and he shall sit upon it in truth in the tabernacle of David, judging, and seeking judgment, and hasting righteousness.” Psalms 100:5, “For the LORD is good; his mercy is everlasting; and his truth endureth to all generations (also Ps 108:4, 115:1, 117:2).”

 

We shall understand in this book just how important it is to be found in God’s truth so as to partake of His mercy. Righteousness or “fear of the Lord” tendeth to life (Pv 11:19 & 19:23, also Pv 12:3, 28, 13:6, 15:9, 21:21, 1 Pt 2:24, 1 Jn 2:29, 3:7). The Lord says: Hosea 6:6, “For I desired mercy, and not sacrifice; and the knowledge of God (truth) more than burnt offerings.”

 

Therefore, let us understand: Romans 5:19, “For as by one man’s disobedience many were made sinners, so by the obedience of one shall many be made righteous.” Who is this “obedient” man who brings life to the repentant…? Who is this obedient man who brings “truth” and makes “righteous,” through “mercy,” so as to establish “peace” between God and man?

 

 

The first mention of the coming of Christ or the Messiah is given in the following account: The Lord God JEHOVAH through His mighty hand delivered His people from the bondage of Pharaoh in Egypt and brought them out unto Himself into the wilderness (Ex 6:3, 7:16, 13:3, 14, 16, 14:13-14, 18, 30, 15:2, 6-7, 13). Israel encamped at Mount Sinai/Horeb where Moses had first met God at the burning bush (Ex 3:1-12, 19:1-2).

 

God said: Exodus 19:4-6, “Ye have seen what I did unto the Egyptians, and how I bare you on eagles’ wings, and brought you unto myself. Now therefore, if ye will obey my voice indeed, and keep my covenant, then ye shall be a peculiar treasure unto me above all people: for all the earth is mine: And ye shall be unto me a kingdom of priests, and an holy nation…” The people responded: “All that the LORD hath spoken we will do (Ex 19:8).”

 

The Lord God was going to speak so that the people would hear His voice. Exodus 19:9, “And the LORD said unto Moses, Lo, I come unto thee in a thick cloud, that the people may hear when I speak with thee, and believe thee for ever. And Moses told the words of the people unto the LORD.”

 

The people were made ready and assembled to hear God speak (Ex 19:9-15). Exodus 19:16-20, “And it came to pass on the third day in the morning, that there were thunders and lightnings, and a thick cloud upon the mount, and the voice of the trumpet exceeding loud; so that all the people that was in the camp trembled. And Moses brought forth the people out of the camp to meet with God; and they stood at the nether part of the mount. And mount Sinai was altogether on a smoke, because the LORD descended upon it in fire: and the smoke thereof ascended as the smoke of a furnace, and the whole mount quaked greatly. And when the voice of the trumpet sounded long, and waxed louder and louder, Moses spake, and God answered him by a voice. And the LORD came down upon mount Sinai, on the top of the mount: and the LORD called Moses up to the top of the mount; and Moses went up.”

 

Furthermore: Deuteronomy 4:10-13, “Specially the day that thou stoodest before the LORD thy God in Horeb, when the LORD said unto me, Gather me the people together, and I will make them hear my words, that they may learn to fear me all the days that they shall live upon the earth, and that they may teach their children. And ye came near and stood under the mountain; and the mountain burned with fire unto the midst of heaven, with darkness, clouds, and thick darkness. And the LORD spake unto you out of the midst of the fire: ye heard the voice of the words, but saw no similitude; only ye heard a voice. And he declared unto you his covenant, which he commanded you to perform, even ten commandments; and he wrote them upon two tables of stone (also Deut 4:36-39, 5:4-6).” Deuteronomy 4:33, “Did ever people hear the voice of God speaking out of the midst of the fire, as thou hast heard, and live?”

 

God then began to speak His Ten Commandments. Deuteronomy 5:4, “The LORD talked with you face to face in the mount out of the midst of the fire, (I stood between the LORD and you at that time, to shew you the word of the LORD: for ye were afraid by reason of the fire, and went not up into the mount;) saying, I am the LORD thy God, which brought thee out of the land of Egypt, from the house of bondage.” AND Exodus 20:1, “And God spake all these words, saying, I am the LORD thy God, which have brought thee out of the land of Egypt, out of the house of bondage.” Among the Ten Commandments, the Lord specifically said: Exodus 20:3, 23, “Thou shalt have no other gods before me. Ye shall not make with me gods of silver, neither shall ye make unto you gods of gold.” Later, the people again said: “All that the LORD hath said will we do, and be obedient (Ex 24:7).”

 

The people greatly feared God (Deut 5:24-27): Exodus 20:19, “And they said unto Moses, Speak thou with us, and we will hear: but let not God speak with us, lest we die (also Deut 5:23-28).” Deuteronomy 18:17-19, “And the LORD said unto me, They have well spoken that which they have spoken. I will raise them up a Prophet from among their brethren, like unto thee, and will put my words in his mouth; and he shall speak unto them all that I shall command him. And it shall come to pass, that whosoever will not hearken unto my words which he shall speak in my name, I will require it of him.” The Lord further said of them: Deuteronomy 5:29, “O that there were such an heart in them, that they would fear me, and keep all my commandments always, that it might be well with them, and with their children for ever!”

 

The whole purpose of God speaking directly to the people was so that they would “fear” God and keep His commandments and walk in His ways (Deut 4:10, 5:29, 6:2, 10:12-13, 20). God’s Word requires a submission and obedience from man.

 

This people rejected hearing directly from God! Very soon after God had spoken His commandments, they also rejected God’s Word (and violated their own word) in that they built a god of gold (Ex 32:1-8). While Moses was meeting with God, they made a molten calf of gold and worshipped it, and sacrificed thereunto: and they said, These be thy gods, O Israel, which brought thee up out of the land of Egypt (Ex 32:4, 8, 23, Deut 9:12-14, 16-17).

 

Once again, man did not obey the truth, but did obey unrighteousness (Rm 2:6-9). Therefore it was said: Acts 7:39-40, “To whom our fathers would not obey, but thrust him from them, and in their hearts turned back again into Egypt. Saying unto Aaron, Make us gods to go before us: for as for this Moses, which brought us out of the land of Egypt, we wot not what is become of him.”

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

At mount Sinai/Horeb, the people did not want to hear directly from God. The Lord said: Deuteronomy 5:29, “O that there were such an heart in them, that they would fear me, and keep all my commandments always, that it might be well with them, and with their children for ever!” The Lord said He would one day raise up a prophet from among them and would put His Word in His mouth. This prophet would come speaking only that which God commanded Him to speak. This is very relevant to Christ as will be discussed below. Furthermore, the words spoken would be required of man – man would be held accountable to obey.

 

Jesus was this one who would come and speak God’s Words (truth). Peter acknowledged that Jesus was the one in saying: Acts 3:22-23, “For Moses truly said unto the fathers, A prophet shall the Lord your God raise up unto you of your brethren, like unto me; him shall ye hear in all things whatsoever he shall say unto you. And it shall come to pass, that every soul, which will not hear that prophet, shall be destroyed from among the people.” The faithful martyr Stephen also acknowledged that Jesus was this prophesied one (Acts 7:37-39). God in these last days spoken unto us by His Son (Heb 1:2).

 

God the Father said of Jesus: Matthew 12:18-20, “Behold my servant, whom I have chosen; my beloved, in whom my soul is well pleased: I will put my spirit upon him, and he shall shew judgment to the Gentiles. He shall not strive, nor cry; neither shall any man hear his voice in the streets. A bruised reed shall he not break, and smoking flax shall he not quench, till he send forth judgment unto victory.” Psalms 85:11, 13, “Truth shall spring out of the earth; and righteousness shall look down from heaven. Righteousness shall go before him; and shall set us in the way of his steps.” Jesus leads those who will “receive” God’s truth back to “peace” with God.

 

When Jesus later came He was very emphatic that He only spoke the Father’s Words. Jesus said: John 12:49-50, “For I have not spoken of myself; but the Father which sent me, he gave me a commandment, what I should say, and what I should speak. And I know that his commandment is life everlasting: whatsoever I speak therefore, even as the Father said unto me, so I speak.” AND John 7:16, “Jesus answered them, and said, My doctrine is not mine, but his that sent me.” John the Baptist bore witness in saying: “For he whom God hath sent speaketh the words of God (Jn 3:34).”

 

The Lord said: “for this cause came I into the world, that I should bear witness unto the truth. Every one that is of the truth heareth my voice (Jn 18:37).” The Word of God brought God’s Word or truth to man as a man. Those who receive this truth are of God. John 3:21, “But he that doeth truth cometh to the light, that his deeds may be made manifest, that they are wrought in God.”

 

The Word was made flesh to teach man the Word or truth of God, both by Word and example (in the form of a servant, Php 2:7-8, Ps 119:160). All of God’s commandments are truth (Ps 119:151). Jesus said: “I speak those things I have heard of him (God the Father, Jn 8:26).” Christ also said: “I must work the works of Him that sent Me (Jn 9:4).” John 6:45, “It is written in the prophets, And they shall be all taught of God.”

 

Jesus came and taught God’s Words (which were taught to Him of the Father, Jn 8:28-29) and those who desire the truth and seek God must come to Him. “Every man therefore that hath heard, and hath learned of the Father, cometh unto me.” Jesus further said: Matthew 11:29, “Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls.”

 

Jesus brought God’s truth to man to complete God’s path for reconciliation: James 1:18, “Of his own will begat he us with the word of truth, that we should be a kind of firstfruits of his creatures.” The Lord “brings us into being (born again)” as sons of God with the Word of truth and gives us the Spirit of truth (Jn 1:12-13, 17:17, Rm 8:14, Gal 4:6, Php 2:15, 1 Jn 3:1-2). God’s mercy is for those who desire (hunger and thirst for) His truth – those who live by God’s Word (Deut 8:3, Mt 4:4, Lk 4:4).

 

It is very important to understand that Jesus proceeded forth (was sent) from God bringing “mercy” and “truth.” Jesus revealed this when He said: John 5:24, “Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that heareth my word, and believeth on him that sent me, hath everlasting life, and shall not come into condemnation; but is passed from death unto life.” AND “the Son of man is not come to destroy men’s lives, but to save them (Lk 9:56, 19:10).” “He that is of God heareth God’s words (Jn 8:47).”

 

Jesus came the first time in great mercy bearing an offer of forgiveness. When Jesus shall be sent from God the second time it will be in great wrath and judgment (Is 13:9-11, 13, 34:1-6, Zeph 1:15, 2:2-3, Rev 6:16-17). Who can stand before his indignation? and who can abide in the fierceness of his anger (Nah 1:6)?

 

For those who receive Christ’s Word: “the word of God, which effectually worketh also in you that believe (1 Thess 2:13).” The Word or truth of God and the Spirit of truth work in you to achieve God’s purposes (Jn 14:17, 15:26, 16:13, 2 Jn 1:2). – “to stablish your hearts unblameable in holiness before God (1 Thess 3:13).” Psalms 33:4, “For the word of the LORD is right; and all his works are done in truth.” 1 Peter 1:25, “But the word of the Lord endureth for ever. And this is the word which by the gospel is preached unto you.” AND Isaiah 40:8, “The grass withereth, the flower fadeth: but the word of our God shall stand for ever.”

 

When Jesus was with Peter, James and John (the pillars of His future church) at the mount of transfiguration (Mk 9:1-6), the following significant event occurred: Mark 9:7, “And there was a cloud that overshadowed them: and a voice came out of the cloud, saying, This is my beloved Son: hear him (also Lk 9:34-35).” This brings us back to when God appeared in a cloud at Mount Horeb and the people feared to hear God. God again appears in a cloud and now directs us to listen to the one He has raised up from among the brethren to speak His Words (Deut 18:17-18). Jesus was sent of God to speak God’s Word or truth. John 3:34, “For he whom God hath sent speaketh the words of God: for God giveth not the Spirit by measure unto him.” The Father’s message to these men was “hear Him.” Jesus said on several occasions: “If any man have ears to hear, let him hear (Mk 4:9, 23, 7:16). Lets repeat: “He that is of God heareth God’s words (Jn 8:47).”

 

The Words spoken by Christ (given by the Father) will be required of man. Jesus said: John 12:48, “He that rejecteth me, and receiveth not my words, hath one that judgeth him: the word that I have spoken, the same shall judge him in the last day.” The judgment of God is according to truth (Rm 2:1). Furthermore, Jesus said: Matthew 24:35, “Heaven and earth shall pass away, but my words shall not pass away (also Mk 13:31).” So, if Christ’s Word shall never pass away and all of creation will be held accountable to these Words, doesn’t it behoove us to take them very seriously? Jesus said: Luke 10:24, “For I tell you, that many prophets and kings have desired to see those things which ye see, and have not seen them; and to hear those things which ye hear, and have not heard them.” Jesus gives sight and hearing to know God’s will, which is the Lord’s truth.

 

Through Moses, God gave Israel the following commandment: Deuteronomy 6:4-5, “Hear, O Israel: The LORD our God is one LORD: And thou shalt love the LORD thy God with all thine heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy might (also Deut 10:12-13).” Jesus reiterated this commandment: Mark 12:29-30, “And Jesus answered him, The first of all the commandments is, Hear, O Israel; The Lord our God is one Lord: And thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind, and with all thy strength: this is the first commandment.” These commandments speak of self sacrifice for the benefit of others and encompass love and mercy.

 

You can be absolutely assured that man will be judged according to this standard/Word/truth! Consider the denial of self (your lusts and desires) that must be done to accomplish this commandment. You must “seek first (foremost)” the kingdom of God and His righteousness (Mt 6:33, Lk 12:31).

To summarize, God sent His Word as prophesied (Jn 5:37). The Word was made flesh, as a man, to speak God’s Word or truth to man (Jn 1:14). Jesus specifically came to speak God the Father’s Word or truth unto man. Christ was anointed to preach the gospel (Lk 4:18). The Lord was totally devoted to do God’s will: John 5:30, “I can of mine own self do nothing: as I hear, I judge: and my judgment is just; because I seek not mine own will, but the will of the Father which hath sent me.” AND “My meat is to do the will of him that sent me, and to finish his work (Jn 4:34).” AND John 6:38, “For I came down from heaven, not to do mine own will, but the will of him that sent me.” AND “the living Father hath sent me, and I live by the Father (Jn 6:57).” Jesus said: “whosoever shall receive me, receiveth not me, but him that sent me (Mk 9:37).” God will hold man accountable to obey and live His truth – count on it! Anyone who says otherwise is a false prophet/teacher (2 Cor 11:13-15, Php 3:2, 18-19, Col 2:8).

 

Jesus not only “perfectly” matched the description of this coming prophet who would bring the Word of God, but is also man’s “example” of God’s expectations for man. Man is to be completely devoted to God as Jesus the Son was to God the Father. “Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceedeth out of the mouth of God (Deut 8:3, Mt 4:4, Lk 4:4).” Jesus is “the Word” that proceeded forth and was sent from God (Jn 1:1-3). Man’s life is found in Christ (1 Jn 5:11-12). Man shall live by Christ’s Words and shall be held accountable for such.

 

Christ said: John 6:33, “For the bread of God is he which cometh down from heaven, and giveth life unto the world.” The “bread of God” equates to the “Word of God.” The Word came down from heaven and was made flesh, and dwelt among us (Jn 1:14). Jesus said: “John 6:48  I am that bread of life.” Man lives by the Word of God which is Jesus whom God sent. This is that prophet which was foretold to Moses. Jesus brings God’s truth and man shall live by that truth.

 

Consider this prophesy concerning Christ: Isaiah 42:16, “And I will bring the blind by a way that they knew not; I will lead them in paths that they have not known: I will make darkness light before them, and crooked things straight. These things will I do unto them, and not forsake them (also Heb 13:5).”

 

 

Jesus was very emphatic that He was “SENT” from God (Jn 3:16-17, 4:34, 5:24, 30, 36, 38, 6:29, 38-40, 44, 51, 57, 7:16, 18, 33, 8:16, 18, 29, 9:4, 36, 12:44-45, 49, 13:16, 20, 15:21, 16:5, 28, 17:21, 23, 25). John 7:28-29, “Then cried Jesus in the temple as he taught, saying, Ye both know me, and ye know whence I am: and I am not come of myself, but he that sent me is true, whom ye know not. But I know him: for I am from him, and he hath sent me.” AND “For I proceeded forth and came from God; neither came I of myself, but he sent me (Jn 8:42).”

 

God sent His Word to accomplish His purposes and prosper in that which He pleases (Is 55:11). God’s Word shall return victorious. John 16:28, “I came forth from the Father, and am come into the world: again, I leave the world, and go to the Father.” Those who “hear” and “live” this Word shall be found in this victory. If you do not believe, Jesus said: “ye shall die in your sins (Jn 8:24).”

Now here is something very important to understand. The “gospel” is the Word of God with power, and the “power” is the Holy Spirit – the inseparable combination of the two – for His Word was with power (Lk 4:32). Jesus was anointed to preach (David had also been anointed of God, 2 Sam 23:1-2 & 1 Sam 16:13). The anointing or power is the Holy Ghost (Jn 1:12, Lk 24:49, Acts 1:8, Rm 1:16). Jesus’ disciples also receive the anointing which teaches them all things (1 Jn 2:27). Unto us which are saved it is the power of God (1 Cor 1:18). 2 Corinthians 6:7, “By the word of truth, by the power of God…” It was noted above that Christ spoke the Words of God and the Spirit was not given by measure unto Him (Jn 3:34). This reveals the indivisible blend of Word and power.

 

God’s Word goes forth with power because it always accomplishes that which He pleases, and it always prospers in the thing whereto He sents it. God has the ability to “enact” His Word and this is just what He does. There is tremendous and unbelievable power behind the Word or truth of God. Pharaoh found this out when he resisted and opposed God’s Word. All creation will know this power at the great Judgment.

 

Jesus spoke God’s Word and this was followed by demonstration of power (signs and wonders, miracles). It was said of Jesus: Luke 4:36, “And they were all amazed, and spake among themselves, saying, What a word is this! for with authority and power he commandeth the unclean spirits, and they come out (other examples: Mt 8:16, 24-27).” The people also said: “Whence hath this man this wisdom, and these mighty works (Mt 13:54)?” Words are just that without the power! – the demonstration. Without the power, God’s truth is just so many words to the unbeliever or religious Pharisee (and modern variation of).

 

The demonstration of power verified the Words Jesus spoke. Matthew 9:2-8, “And, behold, they brought to him a man sick of the palsy, lying on a bed: and Jesus seeing their faith said unto the sick of the palsy; Son, be of good cheer; thy sins be forgiven thee. And, behold, certain of the scribes said within themselves, This man blasphemeth. And Jesus knowing their thoughts said, Wherefore think ye evil in your hearts? For whether is easier, to say, Thy sins be forgiven thee; or to say, Arise, and walk? But that ye may know that the Son of man hath power on earth to forgive sins, (then saith he to the sick of the palsy,) Arise, take up thy bed, and go unto thine house. And he arose, and departed to his house. But when the multitudes saw it, they marvelled, and glorified God, which had given such power unto men.” Christ’s Words were undeniable due to the works He did!

 

The Apostle Paul said: Ephesians 3:7, “Whereof I was made a minister, according to the gift of the grace of God given unto me by the effectual working of his power.” AND Romans 15:19, “Through mighty signs and wonders, by the power of the Spirit of God; so that from Jerusalem, and round about unto Illyricum, I have fully preached the gospel of Christ.” As previously discussed: God’s grace = Holy Spirit = power = God’s gift. Hebrews 2:4, “God also bearing them witness, both with signs and wonders, and with divers miracles, and gifts of the Holy Ghost, according to his own will?”

 

So now we understand another dimension to God’s provision. The Holy Ghost is God’s gift to man. The Holy Ghost further gives additional gifts to man to be used for God’s purposes. God’s Word is power and the Holy Ghost equips those who speak this Word with power – bearing them witness.

 

Paul also wrote: 1 Thessalonians 1:5, “For our gospel came not unto you in word only, but also in power, and in the Holy Ghost, and in much assurance; as ye know what manner of men we were among you for your sake.” AND 1 Corinthians 2:4-5, “And my speech and my preaching was not with enticing words of man’s wisdom, but in demonstration of the Spirit and of power: That your faith should not stand in the wisdom of men, but in the power of God.” AND 1 Corinthians 4:20, “For the kingdom of God is not in word, but in power.” AND Romans 1:16, “For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ: for it is the power of God unto salvation to every one that believeth…” The Word and the power cannot be separated in Christ’s gospel!

 

What about those who do separate the Word and power through unbelief? 2 Timothy 3:5, “Having a form of godliness, but denying the power thereof: from such turn away.”

 

 

The Lord told David (through Nathan the prophet): 1 Chronicles 17:11-14, “And it shall come to pass, when thy days be expired that thou must go to be with thy fathers, that I will raise up thy seed after thee, which shall be of thy sons; and I will establish his kingdom. He shall build me an house, and I will stablish his throne for ever. I will be his father, and he shall be my son: and I will not take my mercy away from him, as I took it from him that was before thee: But I will settle him in mine house and in my kingdom for ever: and his throne shall be established for evermore.” Jesus fulfilled this prophecy exactly.

 

Many will consider that God was referring to Solomon. However, Solomon’s wives turned his heart unto other gods and he built temples to these gods which became a stumbling stone to Judah (1 Kg 11:1-10). 1 Kings 11:6, 9-10, “And Solomon did evil in the sight of the LORD, and went not fully after the LORD, as did David his father. And the LORD was angry with Solomon, because his heart was turned from the LORD God of Israel, which had appeared unto him twice, And had commanded him concerning this thing, that he should not go after other gods: but he kept not that which the LORD commanded.” Because of this the Lord God split the kingdom of Israel (Solomon’s throne) and only left one tribe to Judah - and that only for David’s sake (1 Kg 11:12-13, 32-36). Finally, the temple that Solomon built was later destroyed.

 

Let us consider how Jesus Christ fulfills this prophecy:

 

1)      “I will raise up thy seed after thee, which shall be of thy sons” - Jesus came forth from the seed of David: John 7:42, “Hath not the scripture said, That Christ cometh of the seed of David, and out of the town of Bethlehem, where David was?” AND Romans 1:3-4, “Concerning his Son Jesus Christ our Lord, which was made of the seed of David according to the flesh; And declared to be the Son of God with power, according to the spirit of holiness, by the resurrection from the dead (thus God did not take away His mercy from Him, see below).”

 

2)      “I will establish his kingdom” – Jesus talked extensively about the kingdom of God. Christ spake: Mark 1:15, “And saying, The time is fulfilled, and the kingdom of God is at hand: repent ye, and believe the gospel.” The gospel was the truth of God that Christ brought and shall be required of man. God’s Word is with power and establishes His purposes (Is 55:11) – sifting the good and the bad (discussed below). God the Father has appointed Jesus the Son an eternal kingdom (Lk 19:12, 22:29, Jn 18:36). Isaiah 22:22, “And the key of the house of David will I lay upon his shoulder; so he shall open, and none shall shut; and he shall shut, and none shall open. And I will fasten him as a nail in a sure place; and he shall be for a glorious throne to his father’s house (also Rev 3:7).”

 

3)       “I will be his father, and he shall be my son” - God the Father said of Jesus: Hebrews 1:5, “For unto which of the angels said he at any time, Thou art my Son, this day have I begotten thee? And again, I will be to him a Father, and he shall be to me a Son?” AND Acts 13:33, “God hath fulfilled the same unto us their children, in that he hath raised up Jesus again; as it is also written in the second psalm, Thou art my Son, this day have I begotten thee (also Ps 2:7, Heb 5:5).” God the Father said of Jesus: Matthew 3:17, “And lo a voice from heaven, saying, This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased (also Mt 12:18, 17:5, Mk 1:11, Lk 3:22, 2 Pt 1:17).” Furthermore it was prophesied: Psalms 89:26-27, “He shall cry unto me, Thou art my father, my God, and the rock of my salvation. Also I will make him my firstborn, higher than the kings of the earth.”

 

4)      “He shall build me an house” – Isaiah 45:13, “I have raised him up in righteousness, and I will direct all his ways: he shall build my city, and he shall let go my captives, not for price nor reward, saith the LORD of hosts.”

 

John the Baptist prophesied of Jesus: Luke 3:17, “Whose fan is in his hand, and he will throughly purge his floor, and will gather the wheat into his garner; but the chaff he will burn with fire unquenchable (also Mt 3:12).” We discussed how Jesus was raised up from among the brethren to speak God’s Word or truth to man (Word of God made flesh, Jn 1:1-14). The Word that Jesus brought separates the good from the bad. Only those of a humble and contrite heart will receive God’s Word and apply it to their lives. Concerning these John said: Luke 3:16, “John answered, saying unto them all, I indeed baptize you with water; but one mightier than I cometh, the latchet of whose shoes I am not worthy to unloose: he shall baptize you with the Holy Ghost and with fire (also Mt 3:11, Mk 1:8, Jn 1:33).”

 

Jesus builds an house for God to dwell in by baptizing with the Holy Ghost those who receive God’s truth and are obedient to it (Jn 14:21, 23, Acts 5:32). Christ said: John 14:15-17, “If ye love me, keep my commandments. And I will pray the Father, and he shall give you another Comforter, that he may abide with you for ever; Even the Spirit of truth; whom the world cannot receive, because it seeth him not, neither knoweth him: but ye know him; for he dwelleth with you, and shall be in you.” Furthermore: John 14:20, 23, “At that day ye shall know that I am in my Father, and ye in me, and I in you. Jesus answered and said unto him, If a man love me, he will keep my words: and my Father will love him, and we will come unto him, and make our abode with him.”

 

Christ builds a church (Ekklesia – called out ones) which are called out of the world unto God (Rm 1:6, 8:28, 30, 9:24, 26, 1 Cor 1:9, 24, 26, 7:17, Gal 1:6, Eph 4:4, Col 3:15, 1 Thess 2:12, 2 Thess 2:14, 2 Tim 1:9, 1 Pt 1:15, 2:9, 3:9, 2 Pt 1:3, Jude 1:1). John 6:37, “All that the Father giveth me shall come to me; and him that cometh to me I will in no wise cast out.” AND John 6:44-45, “No man can come to me, except the Father which hath sent me draw him: and I will raise him up at the last day.  It is written in the prophets, And they shall be all taught of God. Every man therefore that hath heard, and hath learned of the Father, cometh unto me.” Jesus baptizes each member of His body with the Holy Ghost and dwells within them (Acts 2:33, Rm 8:9). One is “sealed” unto God by the Spirit (2 Cor 1:22, Eph 1:13, 4:30).

 

5) “I will stablish his throne for ever” - God has given Christ an eternal throne and everlasting kingdom (Mt 16:28, 25:31, Col 1:13, 1 Thess 2:12, 2 Tim 4:1, 2 Pt 1:11): Luke 1:32-33, “Luke 1:32  He shall be great, and shall be called the Son of the Highest: and the Lord God shall give unto him the throne of his father David: And he shall reign over the house of Jacob for ever; and of his kingdom there shall be no end (also Acts 2:30).” AND Philippians 2:9-11, “Wherefore God also hath highly exalted him, and given him a name which is above every name: That at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of things in heaven, and things in earth, and things under the earth; And that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father (also Acts 5:31).”

 

Jesus was exalted to sit at the right hand of the Father (Mt 22:44, 26:64, Mk 12:36, 14:62, 16:19, Lk 20:42, Acts 2:33-34, 5:31, 7:55-56, Rm 8:34, Eph 1:20, Col 3:1, Heb 1:3, 13, 8:1, 10:12, 12:2). Luke 22:69, “Hereafter shall the Son of man sit on the right hand of the power of God.” AND 1 Peter 3:22, “Who is gone into heaven, and is on the right hand of God; angels and authorities and powers being made subject unto him.”

 

6) “I will not take my mercy away from him” - God the Father did not take His mercy from Jesus the Son when He took our sins and suffered our condemnation. It was prophesied of Jesus: Isaiah 54:7-10, “For a small moment have I forsaken thee; but with great mercies will I gather thee. In a little wrath I hid my face from thee for a moment; but with everlasting kindness will I have mercy on thee, saith the LORD thy Redeemer. For this is as the waters of Noah unto me: for as I have sworn that the waters of Noah should no more go over the earth; so have I sworn that I would not be wroth with thee, nor rebuke thee. For the mountains shall depart, and the hills be removed; but my kindness shall not depart from thee, neither shall the covenant of my peace be removed, saith the LORD that hath mercy on thee.”

 

7) “I will settle him in mine house and in my kingdom for ever: and his throne shall be established for evermore” -  Jesus said of His body: 1 Peter 2:5, “Ye also, as lively stones, are built up a spiritual house, an holy priesthood, to offer up spiritual sacrifices, acceptable to God by Jesus Christ (also Eph 2:21-22).” Jesus is the chief corner stone of this spiritual house (Mt 21:42, Mk 12:10, Lk 20:17, Acts 4:11, Eph 2:20, 1 Pt 2:6-7).

 

When Christ’s kingdom is fully realized on a new earth, the Lord says: Revelation 21:1-3, “And I saw a new heaven and a new earth: for the first heaven and the first earth were passed away; and there was no more sea. And I John saw the holy city, new Jerusalem, coming down from God out of heaven, prepared as a bride adorned for her husband. And I heard a great voice out of heaven saying, Behold, the tabernacle of God is with men, and he will dwell with them, and they shall be his people, and God himself shall be with them, and be their God (also Rev 7:15).” AND Revelation 21:23, “And the city had no need of the sun, neither of the moon, to shine in it: for the glory of God did lighten it, and the Lamb is the light thereof.”

 

The Lord Jesus perfectly fulfills the prophecy in that He was born of the seed of David and was called the Son of God (begotten of the Father, Jn 1:13, 18, 3:16, 18, Acts 13:33, Heb 1:5, 5:5, 11:17, 1 Jn 4:9, that holy thing which shall be born of thee shall be called the Son of God, Lk 1:32, 35). Jesus absolutely obeyed the Father’s will and spoke God’s Word or truth to man. This truth separates the righteous from the wicked.

 

Those who genuinely/sincerely receive God’s Word and walk in His ways are baptized in the Holy Ghost. This is such an important point! Jesus builds a sure house with a firm foundation and God dwells within each member (Mt 7:24-27, Lk 6:47-49). Ephesians 2:20-22, “ And are built upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Jesus Christ himself being the chief corner stone; In whom all the building fitly framed together groweth unto an holy temple in the Lord: In whom ye also are builded together for an habitation of God through the Spirit.” The Father raised Jesus from the dead (who bear the sin of the world) in great and eternal mercy. Proverbs 16:6, “By mercy and truth iniquity is purged: and by the fear of the LORD men depart from evil (also Ps 119:11, 105).”

 

Oh such a house the Lord Jesus has built: Isaiah 9:6-7, “For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace. Of the increase of his government and peace there shall be no end, upon the throne of David, and upon his kingdom, to order it, and to establish it with judgment and with justice from henceforth even for ever. The zeal of the LORD of hosts will perform this.”

 

 

God had a plan whereby He would dwell among men bringing His eternal truth. It was prophesied: Isaiah 7:14, “Therefore the Lord himself shall give you a sign; Behold, a virgin shall conceive, and bear a son, and shall call his name Immanuel.” This was later confirmed when an angel told Joseph (concerning Mary his espoused): Matthew 1:23, “Behold, a virgin shall be with child, and shall bring forth a son, and they shall call his name Emmanuel, which being interpreted is, God with us.”

 

In the course of God’s timing, the Word was made flesh. John 1:10-11, “He was in the world, and the world was made by him, and the world knew him not. He came unto his own, and his own received him not.” The Lord came to His own people, yet was rejected by them. Thus the prophecy concerning His suffering (death on the cross): Psalms 22:6-8, 16, “But I am a worm, and no man; a reproach of men, and despised of the people. All they that see me laugh me to scorn: they shoot out the lip, they shake the head, saying, He trusted on the LORD that he would deliver him: let him deliver him, seeing he delighted in him. For dogs have compassed me: the assembly of the wicked have inclosed me: they pierced my hands and my feet.”

 

It was also prophesied of the coming of Christ: Psalms 2:1-3, “Why do the heathen rage, and the people imagine a vain thing? The kings of the earth set themselves, and the rulers take counsel together, against the LORD, and against his anointed, saying, Let us break their bands asunder, and cast away their cords from us.” This prophecy clearly reveals the rebellious and corrupt nature of man. Man does not desire to be under God’s authority, but rather seeks self-will and to be as gods as per the tenets of the devil’s lie (Gen 3:4-5).

 

How does God respond? Psalms 2:6-9, “Yet have I set my king upon my holy hill of Zion. I will declare the decree: the LORD hath said unto me, Thou art my Son; this day have I begotten thee. Ask of me, and I shall give thee the heathen for thine inheritance, and the uttermost parts of the earth for thy possession. Thou shalt break them with a rod of iron; thou shalt dash them in pieces like a potter’s vessel (also Rev 12:5, 19:15).” Jesus (the Son) later tells His followers: Revelation 2:26-27, “And he that overcometh, and keepeth my works unto the end, to him will I give power over the nations: And he shall rule them with a rod of iron; as the vessels of a potter shall they be broken to shivers: even as I received of my Father.”

 

The Lord God knew in advance that His Word would be rejected of man. Even so, God’s purposes were fulfilled in the midst of it. Isaiah 53:3-6, “He is despised and rejected of men; a man of sorrows, and acquainted with grief: and we hid as it were our faces from him; he was despised, and we esteemed him not. Surely he hath borne our griefs, and carried our sorrows: yet we did esteem him stricken, smitten of God, and afflicted. But he was wounded for our transgressions, he was bruised for our iniquities: the chastisement of our peace was upon him; and with his stripes we are healed. All we like sheep have gone astray; we have turned every one to his own way; and the LORD hath laid on him the iniquity of us all.”

 

God made a way for “repentant” man to be forgiven of his past sins. Jesus lived a perfect life of obedience to the will of God. He then offered up His life in place of our sins (2 Cor 5:21) and suffered our condemnation of “thou shalt surely die (Gen 2:17).” - Who gave himself a ransom for all (1 Tim 2:6). Christ’s sacrifice assuaged God’s wrath by providing atonement for remission of sins (Rm 5:11).

 

Therefore, it can be said of Jesus: Isaiah 53:10-12, “Yet it pleased the LORD to bruise him; he hath put him to grief: when thou shalt make his soul an offering for sin, he shall see his seed, he shall prolong his days, and the pleasure of the LORD shall prosper in his hand. He shall see of the travail of his soul, and shall be satisfied: by his knowledge shall my righteous servant justify many; for he shall bear their iniquities. Therefore will I divide him a portion with the great, and he shall divide the spoil with the strong; because he hath poured out his soul unto death: and he was numbered with the transgressors; and he bare the sin of many, and made intercession for the transgressors.”

 

Jesus hung on a tree (meaning accursed of God, crucified, Deut 21:22-23, Acts 5:30, Gal 3:13) as an offering for man’s transgressions against God. 1 Peter 2:24, “Who his own self bare our sins in his own body on the tree, that we, being dead to sins, should live unto righteousness: by whose stripes ye were healed.” God prophesied of Christ: Isaiah 54:7-8, “For a small moment have I forsaken thee; but with great mercies will I gather thee. In a little wrath I hid my face from thee for a moment; but with everlasting kindness will I have mercy on thee, saith the LORD thy Redeemer.”

 

The Word (Jesus) that was sent (proceedeth forth) from God did not return void, but accomplished that which God pleased, and prospered in the thing whereto He was sent (Is 55:11). Jesus finished the work! John 17:4, “I have glorified thee on the earth: I have finished the work which thou gavest me to do.” Jesus brought God’s Word to those who have ears to hear! Jesus walked in God’s truth as a perfect example for man to follow. Jesus atoned for man’s past transgressions of God’s will. Jesus procured the promise of the Holy Spirit and has shed forth such that man is empowered to walk the narrow way (Acts 2:33, Mt 7:13-14, Jn 14:26, 15:26). All of this was done such that through faith a man can be saved or have eternal life. Therefore, John 14:6, “Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me.”

 

 

 

A parable is a simple story dealing with a very real circumstance (situation, fact, event) in which the principal subject is described by another subject resembling it in its properties and circumstances. The principal subject is thus kept out of view, and one is left to ponder the intentions (meaning, objective, purpose) of the speaker. A parable will often say something the flesh does not want to hear (receive) in such a way as to defuse (neutralize, disarm) personal objection (people tuning out their attention or focusing on their objection), or prejudice and hold the attention of the hearer and convey the message (which is pondered in their hearts for an extended period).

 

 

Christ spoke parables because man could not bear to hear the truth of what God was revealing (Is 44:18). This is why Jesus said: Matthew 13:13-15, “Therefore speak I to them in parables: because they seeing see not; and hearing they hear not, neither do they understand. And in them is fulfilled the prophecy of Esaias, which saith, By hearing ye shall hear, and shall not understand; and seeing ye shall see, and shall not perceive: For this people’s heart is waxed gross, and their ears are dull of hearing, and their eyes they have closed; lest at any time they should see with their eyes, and hear with their ears, and should understand with their heart, and should be converted, and I should heal them.” The gospel of Mark says: “Mark 4:12, “That seeing they may see, and not perceive; and hearing they may hear, and not understand; lest at any time they should be converted, and their sins should be forgiven them.”

 

 

The gospel of John adds: “He hath blinded their eyes,andhardened their heart that they should see with their eyes nor understand with their heart and be converted (Jn 12:40).” The hardness of the people’s hearts (obstinate, stiffnecked, unyielding, stubborn, obdurate, inflexible) only enraged them when they heard God’s truth and further blinded their eyes. This seems to always be the effect on those walking in pride (self exaltation, self-will).

 

Man’s heart is hardened and he becomes blind when he seeks his own way. Your way is those stubborn (immovable) ideas that you place above the truth and will not release. This is a refusal to let go of your ways and submit to God and embrace and walk in the Lord’s ways. Hardness of heart is to seek your inclinations and not God’s truth. This is “to be as a god” and “deciding good and evil for yourself” rather than submit and obey the one true God (Gen 3:5). This hard heart must be circumcised (stubbornness cut away) that thou turn unto the LORD thy God with all thine heart, and with all thy soul (Deut 30:6, 10, Rm 2:29).

 

 

 

The Lord’s truth would be revealed to or understood by those who are humble and genuinely and sincerely seek to know it. The gospel tends to be “esoteric” which means it is understood only by a particular and often small group – he that hath ears to hear. John 9:39, “And Jesus said, For judgment I am come into this world, that they which see not might see; and that they which see might be made blind.” This is why Jesus always said after most parables: Mark 4:23, “If any man have ears to hear, let him hear.” This is a monumental statement of tremendous and eternal importance. Jesus is the prophet raised up from among the brethren who spoke only that which God commanded Him. What Jesus spoke will be required of man. Acts 3:23, “And it shall come to pass, that every soul, which will not hear that prophet, shall be destroyed from among the people.” Do you have ears to hear? Most people do not!

 

Jesus revealed the meaning of the parables to His disciples (i.e. Mt 13:36-37, Mk 4:34). Christ told them: Matthew 13:16, “But blessed are your eyes, for they see: and your ears, for they hear.” Christ’s disciples were chosen due to their humbleness and hearts toward God – they could bear to receive the Words spoken. They were given additional explanation from Jesus as to the meaning of the parables. Even so, Jesus also told them: John 16:12, “I have yet many things to say unto you, but ye cannot bear them now.” Christ further said: John 16:25, “These things have I spoken unto you in proverbs: but the time cometh, when I shall no more speak unto you in proverbs, but I shall shew you plainly of the Father.”

GO PLEASE TO PART 2