The Investigative Judgment [1] Sabbath Afternoon 04/21/2018

This afternoon’s Bible study will mark the beginning of a three-part series which will cover some aspects of the investigative judgment, now taking place in the courts above, and which will finally culminate in the exoneration of those who truly believe in Christ. But there are others whose names are now enrolled on church records, who will discover, all to late, that their relationship with Christ was not what it ought to have been.

These latter ones will have their names removed from the Lamb’s book of life, nevermore to be a part of God’s kingdom, and will be judged during the 1000 years between Christ’s second, and third coming. The millennium mentioned above is not an additional probationary period, as some believe, it is the time during which the eternally lost will be judged. Let’s read:

Revelation 20:1 And I saw an angel come down from heaven, having the key of the bottomless pit and a great chain in his hand. 
2 And he laid hold on the dragon, that old serpent, which is the Devil, and Satan, and bound him a thousand years, 
3 And cast him into the bottomless pit, and shut him up, and set a seal upon him, that he should deceive the nations no more, till the thousand years should be fulfilled. 
4 And I saw thrones, and they sat upon them, and judgment was given unto them.
5 But the rest of the dead lived not again until the thousand years were finished. This is the first resurrection.

Therefore, we must begin with several important
points to be contemplated, as it pertains to our attitude, and our standing in the judgment.

[1] Every individual who has ever professed to be a Christian will be called by name in the courts above. We are not called by families, nor by churches, but individually. Let’s read:

2nd Corinthians 5:10 For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ; that everyone may receive the things done in his body, according to that he hath done, whether it be good or bad.

Ecclesiastes 12:13 Let us hear the conclusion of the whole matter: Fear God and keep his commandments; for this is the whole duty of man. 
14 For God shall bring every work into judgment, with every secret thing, whether it be good, or whether it be evil.

[G.C pp 483] As the books of record are opened in the Judgment, the lives of all who have believed on Jesus come in review before God. Beginning with those who first lived upon the earth, our Advocate presents the cases of each successive generation, and closes with the living. Every name is mentioned, every case closely investigated. 

Names are accepted, names rejected. When any have sins remaining upon the books of record, unrepented of and unforgiven, their names will be blotted out of the book of life, and the record of their good deeds will be erased from the book of God's remembrance.

[2] Every work will be brought into judgment. We are saved by grace, but are judged by our works, for what we do, and how we live makes manifest our response to God’s gracious overtures to us through Christ. However, those sins that are confessed, and forsaken will be blotted out, and will not serve as a determining factor in the final verdict. Let’s read:

Isaiah 43:25 I, even I, am he that blotteth out thy transgressions for mine own sake, and will not remember thy sins.

Psalms 103:11 For as the heaven is high above the earth, so great is his mercy toward them that fear him. 
12 As far as the east is from the west, so far hath he removed our transgressions from us. 
13 Like as a father pitieth his children, so the Lord pitieth them that fear him.

Ezekiel 18:21 But if the wicked will turn from all his sins that he hath committed, and keep all my statutes, and do that which is lawful and right, he shall surely live, he shall not die. 
22 All his transgressions that he hath committed, they shall not be mentioned unto him: in his righteousness that he hath done he shall live.

[3] When there's no wrong to hide, intense scrutiny isn't viewed as a threat. The investigative judgment will only terrify those who have unconfessed, and unforsaken sins, for with nothing wrong to hide, any investigation will be welcomed, since the person in question can confidently look forward to his or her final exoneration. 

But where there is “Hidden” guilt, and where there are skeletons in the closet, that person will become nervous, agitated, perturbed, unsettled, disquieted, ill at ease, and “sweating bricks”. A clear conscience before God, and man is something every Christian should strive for, by God’s grace, because it brings a peace that no amount of money can buy, together with tranquility, assurance, and restful sleep. Let’s read:

Isaiah 32:17 And the work of righteousness shall be peace; and the effect of righteousness quietness and assurance forever.

Isaiah 57:20 But the wicked are like the troubled sea, when it cannot rest, whose waters cast up mire and dirt. 
21 There is no peace, saith my God, to the wicked.

Investigation will be welcome news to those who are walking uprightly, but if there are any concealed wrongs, investigation will be bad news. Thus, the true Christian will be looking forward with a calm confidence to the investigative judgment, while the person who is living a lie, will be cowering in fear. In addition, we should always remember that there is no such thing as a hidden skeleton with God, for He sees and knows all. Let’s read:

Numbers 32:23 Behold, ye have sinned against the Lord: and be sure your sin will find you out.

Hebrews 4:12 For the word of God is quick, and powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart. 
13 Neither is there any creature that is not manifest in his sight: but all things are naked and opened unto the eyes of him with whom we have to do.

Daniel 2: 20 Daniel answered and said, Blessed be the name of God for ever and ever: for wisdom and might are his.
22 He revealeth the deep and secret things: he knoweth what is in the darkness, and the light dwelleth with him.

1st Corinthians 4:5 Therefore judge nothing before the time, until the Lord come, who both will bring to light the hidden things of darkness, and will make manifest the counsels of the hearts.

Even though our confidence is never to be placed in our own righteousness, yet it is important that we have a clear conscience, void of offence before God and man. To put it in plain words, trusting in Christ’s righteousness, does not atone for deliberate guilt, for His robe of righteousness is not used as a cloak for any concealed, or intentional, known sin.

[G.C pp 486] Sin may be concealed, denied, covered up from father, mother, wife, children, and associates. No one but the guilty actors may cherish the least suspicion of the wrong; but it is laid bare before the intelligences of Heaven. The darkness of the darkest night, the secrecy of all deceptive arts, is not sufficient to veil one thought from the knowledge of the Eternal. 

God has an exact record of every unjust account and every unfair dealing. He is not deceived by appearances of piety. He makes no mistakes in his estimation of character. Men may be deceived by those who are corrupt in heart, but God pierces all disguises, and reads the inner life.

[4] The “Secret Thing” mentioned in Ecclesiastes, has to do with the thoughts, purposes, and intents of the heart; those abstract, invisible aspects of sin and righteousness that may be hidden from human investigators. It also includes evils some may have planned to do but never got the opportunity to. Sin originates, and is reckoned primarily at the indulged thought, and consent levels, therefore, the overt actions aren’t necessary to incur guilt. Let’s read:

Ecclesiastes 12:14 For God shall bring every work into judgment, with every secret thing, whether it be good, or whether it be evil.

Psalms 19:12 Who can understand his errors? cleanse thou me from secret faults. 
14 Let the words of my mouth, and the meditation of my heart, be acceptable in thy sight, O Lord, my strength, and my redeemer.

Proverbs 23:7 For as he thinketh in his heart, so is he.

Thus, whatsoever we do, think, and say, we should do it as if in the very presence of The Eternal God. If we were to harbor a vivid sense of God’s continual presence, much of what we say and do will change dramatically. In addition, it will help us in living in sincerity and truth. 

It is against such a backdrop that we will embark upon our study of an investigative judgment given in miniature form, from a human perspective. The prophet Daniel was called to be the president of Babylon, but as is so often the case with politics, some of his subordinates became jealous of his promotion to the second highest office in the land.

This jealousy spawned an intense investigation, in which they were bent on digging up dirt on Daniel. They searched his credit records to see if as one who professed to be a Christian, he was paying his bills on time, or was living beyond his means. Next, they searched his I-phone to see if there were any graphic, or inappropriate text messages between himself and some of the female interns who worked in his office.

Next, they went for Daniel’s computer, and his hard drive, to see what websites he visited at night. Yes, he might have been prudent enough not to search the internet on the job, but his personal computer, they thought, might be loaded with questionable searches of those websites that are forbidden in the seventh commandment.

Next, they went after Daniel’s bank records to see if any “Hush” money was paid to keep some unknown person silent. They also scrutinized his finances for bank fraud, and wire fraud, for embezzlement, or if for some reason he was misappropriating the funds of Babylon, which fell under his jurisdiction.

Finally, they thought they would certainly get him on tax evasion, so they subpoenaed the Babylonian IRS, [BRS] for all of Daniel’s tax records, dating back to years before he  became president. But, through all of this intense investigation and scrutiny, Daniel remained calm, and self-possessed. He didn’t even have to hire any prominent Babylonian lawyer, for as far as Daniel was concerned, there was nothing wrong to hide. Let’s read:

Daniel 6:1 It pleased Darius to set over the kingdom an hundred and twenty princes, which should be over the whole kingdom; 2 And over these three presidents; of whom Daniel was first: that the princes might give accounts unto them, and the king should have no damage. 
3 Then this Daniel was preferred above the presidents and princes, because an excellent spirit was in him; and the king thought to set him over the whole realm. 
4 Then the presidents and princes sought to find occasion against Daniel concerning the kingdom; but they could find none occasion nor fault; forasmuch as he was faithful, neither was there any error or fault found in him.

Therefore, having become utterly exasperated by their fruitless search, they resorted to the last, and only remaining item on the agenda, Daniel’s God, and Daniel’s religion. Not that there was anything wrong with Daniel’s religion, but it was just very different from the mainstream religions of his day. And thus, if we’re ever to suffer, let it not be as an evildoer, but because of our faith and practice. Let’s read:

Daniel 6:5 Then said these men, We shall not find any occasion against this Daniel, except we find it against him concerning the law of his God. 
6 Then these presidents and princes assembled together to the king, and said thus unto him, King Darius, live forever. 
7 All the presidents of the kingdom, the governors, and the princes, the counsellors, and the captains, have consulted together to establish a royal statute, and to make a firm decree, that whosoever shall ask a petition of any God or man for thirty days, save of thee, O king, he shall be cast into the den of lions. 
8 Now, O king, establish the decree, and sign the writing, that it be not changed, according to the law of the Medes and Persians, which altereth not. 
9 Wherefore king Darius signed the writing and the decree.

Here is where Jesus Christ went to work on Daniel’s behalf, to exonerate someone who believed in Him, but who also was very careful to maintain a clear conscience, void of offence before God and man. It would be very difficult for God to vindicate Daniel, if indeed the investigators had dug up “Dirt”, such as bank fraud, or Babylonian income tax evasion. 

The mighty angels whom God sent to deliver Daniel would have been hard pressed to do so, if there was deliberate sin, or known guilt with Daniel. And thus, because he honored God by a clear conscience, the lions were bidden to wag their tails, not roar at him, and the reason is given in the scriptures. Let’s read:

Daniel 6:19 Then the king arose very early in the morning, and went in haste unto the den of lions. 
20 And when he came to the den, he cried with a lamentable voice unto Daniel: and the king spake and said to Daniel, O Daniel, servant of the living God, is thy God, whom thou servest continually, able to deliver thee from the lions? 
21 Then said Daniel unto the king, O king, live for ever. 
22 My God hath sent his angel, and hath shut the lions' mouths, that they have not hurt me: forasmuch as before him innocency was found in me; and also before thee, O king, have I done no hurt.

As Christians who are living contemporaneously in the time of the investigative judgment, it is of very critical importance for us to walk circumspectly, in light of the much broader, and much more in-depth nature of God’s scrutiny, because He desires to be able to vindicate, and exonerate all those who are called by His name.

Therefore, now is a bad time to be playing church; instead, we should be seeking for grace, not merely for forgiveness of sins, but so that we may be living embodiments of the character of Christ. In harmony with this, we offer an urgent reminder, that the day of God’s grace is hastening to a close, and as such, it is imperative that we live soberly, righteously, and godly in this generation. Let’s read:

Romans 13:11 And that, knowing the time, that now it is high time to awake out of sleep: for now is our salvation nearer than when we believed. 
12 The night is far spent, the day is at hand: let us therefore cast off the works of darkness, and let us put on the armor of light. 
13 Let us walk honestly, as in the day; not in rioting and drunkenness, not in chambering and wantonness, not in strife and envying. 
14 But put ye on the Lord Jesus Christ, and make not provision for the flesh, to fulfil the lusts thereof.

                                                                        God Bless!
 

The Forbidden Tree. Sabbath Afternoon. 04/14/2018

When the scripture states that the mystery of God will be finished, it is specifically referring to a greatly increased revelation of the character of God, as is manifested in His law, and the many other portions of scripture, which hitherto may have been clouded to many minds. The word Revelation simply means to reveal, and therefore an extensive explanation of issues that were once blurred, must now be made plain.

In harmony with this promise given us by God, He has made it plain to His prophets, that great truth is to lighten the earth with the glory of God, meaning that His character of love, and His great wisdom in the plan of salvation, together with all His dealings, and interactions with the human family, would be on full display during the final conflict between God and satanic agencies in the last days. Let’s read:

Revelation 10:7 But in the days of the voice of the seventh angel, when he shall begin to sound, the mystery of God should be finished, as he hath declared to his servants the prophets.

Daniel 12:4 But thou, O Daniel, shut up the words, and seal the book, even to the time of the end: many shall run to and fro, and knowledge shall be increased.

One of the subjects written in the Bible, which was previously clouded to many minds, is the issue of the forbidden tree in Eden, which God planted, and which He cautioned Adam and Eve not to partake of nor touch, for the inevitable result would be death to themselves and their posterity. Now, some have questioned why the God of love would plant such a
tree in the garden.

Others have wondered why satan was permitted to enter the garden, and still others have reasoned, if God knew the end from the beginning, why would He proceed with such a venture. One thing we must remember in all of our questions and deliberations, is that everything God does has at its core good and upright purposes, which would be fulfilled sooner or later. 

Finite beings may not be able to see the end from the beginning, but if the curtains were pulled back, and we were made privy to the end results, we will not choose any other way than what God chosen. It is against the backdrop of faith in His perfect works, wisdom and goodness, that we should embark upon the study of the character of God. Let’s read:

Deuteronomy 32:1 Give ear, O ye heavens, and I will speak; and hear, O earth, the words of my mouth. 
2 My doctrine shall drop as the rain, my speech shall distil as the dew, as the small rain upon the tender herb, and as the showers upon the grass: 
3 Because I will publish the name of the Lord: ascribe ye greatness unto our God. 
4 He is the Rock, his work is perfect: for all his ways are judgment: a God of truth and without iniquity, just and right is he.

Thus, the issue of the forbidden tree is laden with a host of other pertinent truths that are important for us to understand as we study the beginnings of the great controversy on our planet. There is absolutely nothing wrong with God planting the tree of good and evil in the garden. Obedience to His instructions will guarantee safety, even if there were a hundred other forbidden trees.

It was to develop and test their loyalty that the tree was placed in the garden, because loyalty cannot be developed, nor ascertained when one doesn’t have the option of choosing differently. The loyalty of all husbands and wives is proven only when he or she deliberately chooses not to go with other options. But for a husband to block his wife from being free to choose to love him, will produce a mere robot.

Banning other contrary options is a principle that stems from the use of force, which is directly averse to God’s character of love. In fact, religious persons who seek to proscribe opposing views, will end up persecuting those with whom they disagree, even if their intentions are upright. A true Christian should be able to live peaceably on the same street with an atheist, Buddhist, or Satanist.

The real threat to man’s existence is not that satan lives on our street, or is perched in the forbidden tree, it is disobedience to God’s word that is the real danger. In fact, according to what is written in “His secret” the forbidden tree was located in other worlds, and no one suffered any loss, because they obeyed God’s warning. Let’s read:

[Early Writings pp 39> 40] The Lord has given me a view of other worlds. Wings were given me, and an angel attended me from the city to a place that was bright and glorious. The grass of the place was living green, and the birds there warbled a sweet song. The inhabitants of the place were of all sizes; they were noble, majestic, and lovely. 

They bore the express image of Jesus, and their countenances beamed with holy joy, expressive of the freedom and happiness of the place. I asked one of them why they were so much more lovely than those on the earth. The reply was, “We have lived in strict obedience to the commandments of God, and have not fallen by disobedience, like those on the earth.” 
Then I saw two trees, one looked much like the tree of life in the city. The fruit of both looked beautiful, but of one they could not eat. They had power to eat of both, but were forbidden to eat of one. Then my attending angel said to me, “None in this place have tasted of the forbidden tree; but if they should eat, they would fall.”

In Miami Gardens on North West 19th Avenue, is an electrical substation with several huge transformers carrying megavolts of current. But right next to the substation there are many houses with people living safely for years, and they will continue to do so with no existential threat, once they obey the warning signs which say “Do not touch”. Let’s read:

Genesis 3:1 Now the serpent was more subtle than any beast of the field which the Lord God had made. And he said unto the woman, Yea, hath God said, Ye shall not eat of every tree of the garden? 
2 And the woman said unto the serpent, We may eat of the fruit of the trees of the garden: 
3 But of the fruit of the tree which is in the midst of the garden, God hath said, Ye shall not eat of it, neither shall ye touch it, lest ye die. 
4 And the serpent said unto the woman, Ye shall not surely die: 
5 For God doth know that in the day ye eat thereof, then your eyes shall be opened, and ye shall be as gods, knowing good and evil. 
6 And when the woman saw that the tree was good for food, and that it was pleasant to the eyes, and a tree to be desired to make one wise, she took of the fruit thereof, and did eat, and gave also unto her husband with her; and he did eat.

Verse one of the previous passages, raises another question that has long been clouded to many minds for it says that the serpent spoke to Eve, raising the prospect that he could have had access to our first parents at any time, and at any place in the garden. In fact, the serpent could only have access to them at the place that was off-limits, for satan was not allowed to follow them continually with temptation. Let’s read:

[Patriarchs & Prophets pp 53] Satan was not to follow them with continual temptations; he could have access to them only at the forbidden tree. Should they attempt to investigate its nature, they would be exposed to his wiles. They were admonished to give careful heed to the warning which God had sent them and to be content with the instruction which He had seen fit to impart.

This critically important piece of information sheds light on the character of God, for even though He can only accept our freedom of choice to serve Him, yet He does not make it easy or incidental for us to sin. Adam and Eve would have to go where no man had gone before, they would have to choose to go onto the enchanted ground, before they would be rendered vulnerable.

This fact leads us to the core of our study, for there are several “forbidden trees” still in existence, and like our first parents, many people, including some Christians, are deliberately choosing to touch, taste, and handle, even though the commands of God’s word against such actions are numerous, explicit, and plain.

For starters, The Lord will have us understand, that like Adam and Eve, satan is not permitted to follow us continually with temptations, for if this was to be the case, most, if not all of us would have given up long ago in discouragement. And even though he is permitted to tempt us at times, yet the bulk of his infernal activities are greatly restricted, monitored, and overseen by God on a personal level. Let’s read:

1st Corinthians 10:13 There hath no temptation taken you but such as is common to man: but God is faithful, who will not suffer you to be tempted above that ye are able; but will with the temptation also make a way to escape, that ye may be able to bear it.

Therefore, according to the previous passage, it is quite possible that very many, if not most of our temptations actually occur as a result of us going to the forbidden trees to be tempted. So, for reason of clarity, we must delineate in clearest terms, where some of these forbidden trees are located. There are literal places where the forces of the enemy are firmly entrenched.

In other words, there are places on this earth where there are many more evil spirits congregated, than in other places, and every Christian living in these last days must know the difference. There are also virtual trees, and online trees, and other places and activities which are described as being satan’s enchanted ground. Let’s read:

[Messages to young people pp 82] Keep yourselves away from the corrupting influences of the world. Do not go unbidden to places where the forces of the enemy are strongly entrenched. Do not go where you will be tempted and led astray.

Question: What types of places, influences, and activities are being here spoken of?

[1] The Movies: The movies provide both initiation and indoctrination into a host of evils, which once our minds are exposed to, the imagery, actions, and the desire to replicate are instilled, and are set in motion. Sexually explicit scenes in movies will incite attendees to adultery; violent scenes at the movies will incite to violence, and magical scenes will open up the desire for witchcraft, because by beholding we become changed.

All satan has to do is to get us thinking about evil, for he knows the scripture which says, “As a man thinks in his heart, so is he”. Therefore, once the mental seed has been planted in our thoughts, the actions will most likely follow, when the opportune time arises, or when the right set of circumstances converge. The sex scandals we’re seeing unfolding daily did not occur in a vacuum, they all began with eating from the forbidden tree. Let’s read:

James 1:13 Let no man say when he is tempted, I am tempted of God: for God cannot be tempted with evil, neither tempteth he any man: 
14 But every man is tempted, when he is drawn away of his own lust, and enticed. 
15 Then when lust hath conceived, it bringeth forth sin: and sin, when it is finished, bringeth forth death.

[P&P 460] Through the drama he has worked for ages to excite passion and glorify vice. The opera, with its fascinating display and bewildering music, the masquerade, the dance, the card table, Satan employs to break down the barriers of principle and open the door to sensual indulgence. In every gathering for pleasure where pride is fostered, or appetite indulged, where one is led to forget God and lose sight of eternal interests, there Satan is binding his chains about the soul.

[2] Churches that teach error: The doctrines of a church are the keys to its conscience, for whatever one believes is what he will do. Thus, wherever any falsehoods are being taught and practiced, where erroneous theories are advocated, there is where another forbidden tree is located. There the serpent is perched, not in the branches but in the pulpit, to seduce and confuse the unwary into sin. 

This is what some may describe as an inconvenient truth, but nevertheless, it must be exposed, since many Christians do not see any danger in hopping from church to church, regardless of the doctrines being taught. Let’s read:

Isaiah 8:20 To the law and to the testimony: if they speak not according to this word, it is because there is no light in them.

Isaiah 30:9 This is a rebellious people, lying children, that will not hear the law of the Lord. 
10 Which say to prophets, Prophesy not unto us right things, speak unto us smooth things, prophesy deceits.

Matthew 15:8 This people draweth nigh unto me with their mouth, and honoureth me with their lips; but their heart is far from me. 
9 But in vain they do worship me, teaching for doctrines the commandments of men.

Revelation 2:12 And to the angel of the church in Pergamos write; These things saith he which hath the sharp sword with two edges; 
13 I know thy works, and where thou dwellest, even where Satan's seat is: and thou holdest fast my name, and hast not denied my faith, even in those days wherein Antipas was my faithful martyr, who was slain among you, where Satan dwelleth. 
14 But I have a few things against thee, because thou hast there them that hold the doctrine of Balaam, who taught Balac to cast a stumblingblock before the children of Israel, to eat things sacrificed unto idols, and to commit fornication. 
15 So hast thou also them that hold the doctrine of the Nicolaitanes, which thing I hate. 
16 Repent; or else I will come unto thee quickly, and will fight against them with the sword of my mouth. 

[Early Writings pp 274] An innumerable host of evil angels are spreading themselves over the whole land. The churches and religious bodies are crowded with them. And they look upon the religious bodies with exultation; for the cloak of religion covers the greatest crimes and iniquity.

[E.W 125] God is displeased with us when we go to listen to error, without being obliged to go; for unless He sends us to those meetings where error is forced home to the people by the power of the will, He will not keep us. The angels cease their watchful care over us, and we are left to the buffetings of the enemy, to be darkened and weakened by him and the power of his evil angels; and the light around us becomes contaminated with the darkness.

[3] Online trees, and virtual trees: The serpent is often perched in branches of online trees, where it’s usually much more convenient for subscribers to pluck and eat in the privacy of their own homes. In our day, every type of evil is readily available at the click of a button, and because of this, many are now eating of the forbidden fruit online.

The prohibitions God has given against indulging in evil pertains to both literal and virtual trees. The sin of adultery occurs online and offline, for porn, and sexting are recorded as adultery, even though there may never be any physical contact. Adultery occurs, and begins in the mind, and is then manifested in an overt action, but a physical, literal rendezvous is not necessary for it to be recorded as sin. Let’s read:

Matthew 5:27 Ye have heard that it was said by them of old time, Thou shalt not commit adultery: 
28 But I say unto you, That whosoever looketh on a woman to lust after her hath committed adultery with her already in his heart.

Christians who countenance, or condone adultery for political, or financial benefit are doing a great disservice to the cause of Christ, for by so doing the moral fabric of society, as well as the foundation of the family unit is being essentially destroyed, thus making the claim of “Family values” a misnomer.

Therefore, because we are inundated with several forbidden trees, and because it has become second nature for the small and great, rich and poor to pick and eat, we are instructed by God to give warning to those who desire Christ and heaven, to abstain from indulging any appearance of evil, because the choice to obey God must be deliberate and decisive, just as it should have been in the garden where it all started. 

We close with an exhortation from the scriptures, and pertinent counsel from the pen of inspiration, encouraging us to choose good over evil, because our choice to obey God is what will ultimately make all the difference for our eternal destiny in the end. Let’s read: 

1st Peter 1:13 Wherefore gird up the loins of your  mind, be sober, and hope to the end for the grace that is to be brought unto you at the revelation of Jesus Christ; 
14 As obedient children, not fashioning yourselves according to the former lusts in your ignorance: 
16 Because it is written, Be ye holy; for I am holy.

[Patriarchs & Prophets pp 460] Those who would not fall a prey to Satan's devices must guard well the avenues of the soul; they must avoid reading, seeing, or hearing that which will suggest impure thoughts. The mind should not be left to wander at random upon every subject that the adversary of souls may suggest. “Whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things.”  

                                                                    God Bless!
 

A Christian's Priorities. Sabbath Afternoon 04/07/2018

Matthew 28:18 And Jesus came and spake unto them, saying, All power is given unto me in heaven and in earth. 
19 Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost: 
20 Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you always, even unto the end of the world.

Christ’s promise to be with us is in the context of our fulfilling the commission given us. Therefore, it seems as if our brains would have to be rewired to think, and act along those lines, for very many of us are quite absorbed in the temporal things of life, to the point where active ministry in Christ’s kingdom is often viewed as an encroachment upon one’s time, and personal resources.

But the main priority of a true Christian is not merely to make a living, and pay bills, nor is it to focus on retirement, or wealth management, for even though these things may be good in their legitimate sphere, yet Christ never intended that they should absorb our keenest interest. Thus, a true Christian’s priority will be a burden for souls for whom Christ died, and every other consideration will be held subject to that one great and noble purpose.

Whatsoever sits on our minds continually from day to day, and whatsoever absorbs our utmost interest is where we will ultimately expend our best energy, and resources. In this age of the world, numerous inventions, and distractions are eating up valuable time and resources, which have nothing to do with the commission Christ has given to us as Christians. 

This in turn has produced a lukewarm condition in the church, where many members do just enough to get by as Christians, even though a vital interest, and energy in the building up of God’s kingdom may be lacking. The words “Well done, thou good and faithful servant” are not addressed to those who did the bare minimum, but rather to those who went over and beyond, sacrificially, in advancing the interests of God’s kingdom upon the earth.

It was against the backdrop of a confused order of priorities that Christ cautioned Christians not to lose focus, for whenever that takes place, the Laodicean syndrome sets in, and a lukewarm form of Christian living is the sure result. Thus, the word “Treasure” in the following passages, not only has to do with literal treasures and possessions, it also refers to whatsoever is consuming our highest interest, and best resources, which does not contribute to the salvation of souls. Let’s read:

Matthew 6:19 Lay not up for yourselves treasures upon earth, where moth and rust doth corrupt, and where thieves break through and steal: 
20 But lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust doth corrupt, and where thieves do not break through nor steal: 
21 For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also. 

Our treasure refers to what we deeply care about, it refers to what may cause us to lose sleep at nights, it has to do with what we will spend any amount of money to preserve and protect, and it also includes what we will readily sacrifice for, putting the most value on, and esteeming it of greatest importance. If the salvation of souls, for whom Christ died does not fit the above description, then our “Treasure” is in the wrong place. Let’s read:

Matthew 6:31 Therefore take no thought, saying, What shall we eat? or, What shall we drink? or, Wherewithal shall we be clothed?
32 (For after all these things do the Gentiles seek:) for your heavenly Father knoweth that ye have need of all these things. 
33 But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you. 
34 Take therefore no thought for the morrow: for the morrow shall take thought for the things of itself. Sufficient unto the day is the evil thereof.

When the disciples mourned that they had fished all night, and had caught nothing, The Lord showed in graphic terms what was the real problem. It wasn’t that they had bad luck, and it wasn’t because there were no fish to take their bait, neither did they fail because of a lack of skill on their part, for they were very experienced fishermen. The problem was their mixed-up priorities. Let’s read:

Luke 5:1 And it came to pass, that, as the people pressed upon him to hear the word of God, he stood by the lake of Gennesaret, 
2 And saw two ships standing by the lake: but the fishermen were gone out of them, and were washing their nets. 
3 And he entered into one of the ships, which was Simon's, and prayed him that he would thrust out a little from the land. And he sat down, and taught the people out of the ship. 
4 Now when he had left speaking, he said unto Simon, Launch out into the deep, and let down your nets for a draught. 
5 And Simon answering said unto him, Master, we have toiled all the night, and have taken nothing: nevertheless, at thy word I will let down the net. 
6 And when they had this done, they enclosed a great multitude of fishes: and their net brake. 
7 And they beckoned unto their partners, which were in the other ship, that they should come and help them. And they came, and filled both the ships, so that they began to sink. 
8 When Simon Peter saw it, he fell down at Jesus' knees, saying, Depart from me; for I am a sinful man, O Lord. 
9 For he was astonished, and all that were with him, at the draught of the fishes which they had taken:
10 And so was also James, and John, the sons of Zebedee, which were partners with Simon. And Jesus said unto Simon, Fear not; from henceforth thou shalt catch men. 
11 And when they had brought their ships to land, they forsook all, and followed him.

[C.O.L. 366] Christ's coming was at a time of intense worldliness. Men were subordinating the eternal to the temporal, the claims of the future to the affairs of the present. They were mistaking phantoms for realities, and realities for phantoms. They did not by faith behold the unseen world. Satan presented before them the things of this life as all-attractive and all-absorbing, and they gave heed to his temptations.

Christ came to change this order of things. He sought to break the spell by which men were infatuated and ensnared. In His teaching He sought to adjust the claims of heaven and earth, to turn men's thoughts from the present to the future. From their pursuit of the things of time, He called them to make provision for eternity.

However, in our day, very great changes have taken place in our order of priorities, for we seem to have lost to a large extent, the burning desire to seek and save the lost, that willingness to forsake all for the sake of the gospel. Many Christians are now heavily focused on their education, their 401ks, the politics of the day, the breaking news, and the numerous scandals which absorb valuable time and interest.

Yet, many of us hardly lose sleep over souls who are going down into Christ-less graves every day, to the point where some have become desensitized to the urgency of the moment, and the great need to help in finishing the work of the gospel to all the world. A certain news network had sent their camera crew to film the rescue of a cat that inadvertently climbed onto a high tension electric wire. 

With the cameras rolling, and fire trucks and crew in a frenzy, they watched with baited breath as the rescue unfolded. Then, without a warning, the cat leapt from the electric pole and went his way, thus making the efforts of the rescue team useless. But, according to the statistics, on that same day, about 151,600 people died across the world, and most of them were never even mentioned.

Thus, if our energies and interests are bound up in the mundane things of life, whilst we hardly bat an eye to the needs of humanity, and the salvation of our fellowmen for whom Christ died, then we will need to re-examine where our priorities are, and make the necessary changes through the power of God, and deliberate sensible choices.

In fact, Jesus placed individuals, including Christians into one of two categories, the gatherers, and the scatterers. Those who are not actively gathering souls to Christ, are not merely sitting on the fence, they are scattering away from Him. Let’s read:

Matthew 12:30 He that is not with me is against me; and he that gathereth not with me scattereth abroad.

Therefore, as we seek to remedy this lukewarm state of things, let’s turn to the examples given of the early believers, who, after the day of Pentecost had their minds rewired to serve, seek and save the lost. Through the presence of the Holy Spirit, their main concern each day was “How can we win more souls to Christ?” 

Their education, their retirement, their nest eggs, their entertainment, their work, and everything else was held in subjection to that singular purpose, and because of this, God was able to work tremendously through them, for the upbuilding of His kingdom. Let’s read:

Acts 2:41 Then they that gladly received his word were baptized: and the same day there were added unto them about three thousand souls. 
42 And they continued steadfastly in the apostles' doctrine and fellowship, and in breaking of bread, and in prayers. 
44 And all that believed were together, and had all things common; 
45 And sold their possessions and goods, and parted them to all men, as every man had need. 
46 And they, continuing daily with one accord in the temple, and breaking bread from house to house, did eat their meat with gladness and singleness of heart, 
47 Praising God, and having favor with all the people. And the Lord added to the church daily such as should be saved.

Acts 5:14 And believers were the more added to the Lord, multitudes both of men and women.) 
17 Then the high priest rose up, and all they that were with him, (which is the sect of the Sadducees,) and were filled with indignation, 
18 And laid their hands on the apostles and put them in the common prison. 
19 But the angel of the Lord by night opened the prison doors, and brought them forth, and said,
20 Go, stand and speak in the temple to the people all the words of this life. 
7 And the word of God increased; and the number of the disciples multiplied in Jerusalem greatly.

[A.A. pp 37] The disciples prayed with intense earnestness for a fitness to meet men and in their daily intercourse to speak words that would lead sinners to Christ. Putting away all differences, all desire for the supremacy, they came close together in Christian fellowship. 

These days of preparation were days of deep heart searching. The disciples felt their spiritual need and cried to the Lord for the holy unction that was to fit them for the work of soul saving. They did not ask for a blessing for themselves merely. They were weighted with the burden of the salvation of souls. They realized that the gospel was to be carried to the world, and they claimed the power that Christ had promised.

To the church of our day, a Laodicean paralysis has gripped many persons, and we too are absorbed in those things that are eaten and corrupted by moths on different levels. Yet, The Lord is calling as many as are willing to make the necessary changes in our priorities, and to work sacrificially, so that the world may be enlightened by the everlasting gospel given to our generation.

In lieu of the urgency of the moment, and the very short time we have left in which to accomplish the great commission given us, Christ gives us a gentle reminder of the work He has given us to do. And He is saying to us, that if we were to rearrange all our affairs in their proper order of priority, everything else downstream will fall into its rightful place. Let’s read:

Isaiah 58:6 Is not this the fast that I have chosen? to loose the bands of wickedness, to undo the heavy burdens, and to let the oppressed go free, and that ye break every yoke? 
7 Is it not to deal thy bread to the hungry, and that thou bring the poor that are cast out to thy house? when thou seest the naked, that thou cover him; and that thou hide not thyself from thine own flesh? 
8 Then shall thy light break forth as the morning, and thine health shall spring forth speedily: and thy righteousness shall go before thee; the glory of the Lord shall be thy reward. 
9 Then shalt thou call, and the Lord shall answer; thou shalt cry, and he shall say, Here I am. If thou take away from the midst of thee the yoke, the putting forth of the finger, and speaking vanity;
10 And if thou draw out thy soul to the hungry, and satisfy the afflicted soul; then shall thy light rise in obscurity, and thy darkness be as the noon day: 
11 And the Lord shall guide thee continually, and satisfy thy soul in drought, and make fat thy bones: and thou shalt be like a watered garden, and like a spring of water, whose waters fail not.
                                                                   God Bless!
 

A Prophet Among Us. Sabbath Afternoon. 03/31/2018

Up until the time of Moses, the prophets of God all spoke by word of mouth, for there was not a Bible written anywhere, for reference, nor confirmation purposes. God sent holy men with very important messages or warnings to the people, and they were expected to believe. In fact, when we study closely we will discover that God never publicly declared to the antediluvians that Noah was a prophet.

Noah was righteous in his generation, but there were also several other righteous persons living in Noah’s day, so the antediluvians were faced with the prospect of believing the words of someone of contemporaneous standing, who declared that life as they knew it would come to a sudden end, with billions of individuals perishing.

Thus, the primary evidences God gave to the people back then was Noah’s righteous life, his faithfulness in setting before them the reasons for their coming destruction, and finally, the phenomenon of birds, and animals entering the ark in perfect formation. These evidences were designed to appeal both to the senses and intelligence of the people, but other than that they were expected to believe. Let’s read:

Genesis 6:1 And it came to pass, when men began to multiply on the face of the earth, and daughters were born unto them, 
2 That the sons of God saw the daughters of men that they were fair; and they took them wives of all which they chose. 
3 And the Lord said, My spirit shall not always strive with man, for that he also is flesh: yet his days shall be an hundred and twenty years.
5 And God saw that the wickedness of man was great in the earth, and that every imagination of the thoughts of his heart was only evil continually.
7 And the Lord said, I will destroy man whom I have created from the face of the earth; both man, and beast, and the creeping thing, and the fowls of the air; for it repenteth me that I have made them.
13 And God said unto Noah, The end of all flesh is come before me; for the earth is filled with violence through them; and, behold, I will destroy them with the earth.

When God gave this message to Noah, it wasn’t in a public setting, but rather in private, but the people were to consider if Noah’s delineation of their sins was true, and if so, they were to believe, confess, and repent. Thus, at the very onset of his prophetic ministry, is the issue of how much evidence should be required before the antediluvians believed, for their salvation would be inevitably linked to belief.

More than this, Noah also declared that heavy rain was to fall, to the point where it would engulf the entire globe, something which had never occurred on the planet, and for which there was no scientific data, no historical precedent, and no evidence.

So, the question is: Why should the antediluvians of Noah’s day believe? Were they to sell their homes, put their education on hold, and go huddle in a boat filled with animals and creeping things solely on the word of the prophet, who had no formal training or education as a scientist. In other words, should the people back then believe Noah instead of Steven Hawking?

Similarly, when Joseph declared to pharaoh that a deadly famine was coming, all that the king had to go with was the singular testimony of his butler. He could choose to believe the butler’s testimony or he could chalk it up to figments of Joseph’s imagination but one thing was certain, the survival of Egypt was dependent on the kings disposition, and willingness to believe. 

Thus, in dealing with the issue of a God-ordained prophet, we must first begin with the attitude of believing, for this is the one critical element that will set the stage for us to accept what God has to say through His servants, or conversely, to reject, quibble, or to be skeptical towards any prophetic utterances.

It is extremely important for Christians to cultivate a disposition of faith and belief, instead of an attitude of skepticism, because our eternal destiny can hang in the balance, depending on our disposition to believe, or not. Let’s read:

2nd Chronicles 20:20 And they rose early in the morning and went forth into the wilderness of Tekoa: and as they went forth, Jehoshaphat stood and said, Believe in the Lord your God, so shall ye be established; believe his prophets, so shall ye prosper.

2nd Peter 1:21 For the prophecy came not in old time by the will of man: but holy men of God spake as they were moved by the Holy Ghost.

The question is often asked: “Why the need for the prophetic ministry, not only in those former years, but also in our day? The answer to this important question is to be found in the Bible, for since the fall of man, God has very rarely spoken in public to the masses of people. Instead, He uses chosen human agents as His mouthpiece.

And in so doing, God is able to pass on the critically important information to those who are disposed to believe, information which in many cases would not be readily accepted by the popular majority, even if there was an abundance of additional extra details, explanations, insights, and warnings, that are not to be found anywhere in the Bible. Thus, the attitude of believing His prophets could save us from serious and even grave mistakes. Let’s read: 
Proverbs 29:18 Where there is no vision, the people perish.

Amos 3:7 Surely the Lord God will do nothing, but he revealeth his secret unto his servants the prophets.

“His Secret” has to do with additional, and critically important information that is not primarily offered to the masses of people, but is designed for those with a believing mind. Thus, as we study, we would observe a pattern emerging, of which we should be cognizant, in which much meat is put upon “Them dry bones” that are often found in the scriptures. Let’s read:

Dry Bones # [1]: Revelation 12:7 And there was war in heaven: Michael and his angels fought against the dragon; and the dragon fought and his angels, 
8 And prevailed not; neither was their place found any more in heaven. 
9 And the great dragon was cast out, that old serpent, called the Devil, and Satan, which deceiveth the whole world: he was cast out into the earth, and his angels were cast out with him.

The prophet Isaiah gives us more detail as to why satan and his angels were cast out, for he explains to us the pride that was indulged by lucifer, before he became satan. In addition, Isaiah laments the woes, the evil, the destruction, and death that has come upon humanity, as a result of that first war in heaven. Let’s read:

Isaiah 14:12 How art thou fallen from heaven, O Lucifer, son of the morning! how art thou cut down to the ground, which didst weaken the nations! 
13 For thou hast said in thine heart, I will ascend into heaven, I will exalt my throne above the stars of God: I will sit also upon the mount of the
congregation, in the sides of the north: 
14 I will ascend above the heights of the clouds; I will be like the Most-High. 
15 Yet thou shalt be brought down to hell, to the sides of the pit. 
16 They that see thee shall narrowly look upon thee, and consider thee, saying, Is this the man that made the earth to tremble, that did shake kingdoms; 
17 That made the world as a wilderness, and destroyed the cities thereof; that opened not the house of his prisoners?

But even those revelations given to Isaiah and John leave out important, and extensive details treating upon the same subject. The additional “Meat” was given to Ellen G. White to broaden the picture, and to enhance our comprehension of what took place. Thus, the meat we are now going to eat with those bones, could save very many from the fatal error of
misunderstanding the character of God. Let’s read:

[Patriarchs & Prophets pp 36] In heavenly council the angels pleaded with Lucifer. The Son of God presented before him the greatness, the goodness, and the justice of the Creator, and the sacred, unchanging nature of His law; and in departing from it, Lucifer would dishonor his Maker and bring ruin upon himself. But the warning, given in infinite love and mercy, only aroused a spirit of resistance. Lucifer allowed his jealousy of Christ to prevail and became the more determined.

[Page 37] Leaving his place in the immediate presence of the Father, Lucifer went forth to diffuse the spirit of discontent among the angels. He worked with mysterious secrecy, and for a time concealed his real purpose under an appearance of reverence for God. 

He began to insinuate doubts concerning the laws that governed heavenly beings, intimating that though laws might be necessary for the inhabitants of the worlds, angels, being more exalted, needed no such restraint, for their own wisdom was a sufficient guide.

[Page 39] In great mercy, according to His divine character, God bore long with Lucifer. The spirit of discontent and disaffection had never before been known in heaven. It was a new element, strange, mysterious, unaccountable. A compassionate Creator, in yearning pity for Lucifer and his followers, was seeking to draw them back from the abyss of ruin into which they were about to plunge. But His mercy was misinterpreted.

[Page 41] God permitted Satan to carry forward his work until the spirit of disaffection ripened into active revolt. It was necessary for his plans to be fully developed, that their true nature and tendency might be seen by all.

[The Story Of redemption pp 26] Satan trembled as he viewed his work. He was alone in meditation upon the past, the present, and his future plans. His mighty frame shook as with a tempest. An angel from heaven was passing. He called him and entreated an interview with Christ. This was granted him. 

He then related to the Son of God that he repented of his rebellion and wished again the favor of God. He was willing to take the place God had previously assigned him and be under His wise command. Christ wept at Satan's woe but told him, as the mind of God, that he could never be received into heaven. 

Heaven must not be placed in jeopardy. All heaven would be marred should he be received back, for sin and rebellion originated with him. The seeds of rebellion were still within him.

Dry Bones # [2] Genesis 3:1 Now the serpent said unto the woman, Yea, hath God said, Ye shall not eat of every tree of the garden? 
2 And the woman said unto the serpent, We may eat of the fruit of the trees of the garden: 
3 But of the fruit of the tree which is in the midst of the garden, God hath said, Ye shall not eat of it, neither shall ye touch it, lest ye die. 
4 And the serpent said unto the woman, Ye shall not surely die: 
5 For God doth know that in the day ye eat thereof, then your eyes shall be opened, and ye shall be as gods, knowing good and evil. 
6 And when the woman saw that the tree was good for food, and that it was pleasant to the eyes, and a tree to be desired to make one wise, she took of the fruit thereof, and did eat, and gave also unto her husband with her; and he did eat.

[Patriarchs & Prophets pp 52] Our first parents were not left without a warning of the danger that threatened them. Heavenly messengers opened to them the history of Satan's fall and his plots for their destruction, unfolding more fully the nature of the divine government, which the prince of evil was trying to overthrow.

[Page 53] The serpent was then one of the wisest and most beautiful creatures on the earth. Resting in the rich-laden branches of the forbidden tree and regaling itself with the delicious fruit, it was an object to arrest the attention and delight the eye of the beholder. Thus, in the garden of peace lurked the destroyer, watching for his prey.

[Page 53>54] The angels had cautioned Eve to beware of separating herself from her husband while occupied in their daily labor in the garden; with him she would be in less danger from temptation than if she were alone. But absorbed in her pleasing task, she unconsciously wandered from his side. 

On perceiving that she was alone, she felt an apprehension of danger, but dismissed her fears, deciding that she had sufficient wisdom and strength to discern evil and to withstand it. Unmindful of the angels’ caution, she soon found herself gazing with mingled curiosity and admiration upon the forbidden tree. The fruit was very beautiful, and she questioned with herself why God had withheld it from them. 

[Page 55>556] Now was the tempter's opportunity. As if he were able to discern the workings of her mind, he addressed her: “Yea, hath God said, Ye shall not eat of every tree of the garden?” Eve was surprised and startled as she thus seemed to hear the echo of her thoughts. 

But the serpent continued, in a musical voice, with subtle praise of her surpassing loveliness; and his words were not displeasing. Instead of fleeing from the spot she lingered wonderingly to hear a serpent speak.

The serpent plucked the fruit of the forbidden tree and placed it in the hands of the half-reluctant Eve. Then he reminded her of her own words, that God had forbidden them to touch it, lest they die. Perceiving no evil results from what she had done, Eve grew bolder. It was grateful to the taste, and without a fear she plucked and ate.

Having herself transgressed, she became the agent of Satan in working the ruin of her husband. In a state of strange, unnatural excitement, with her hands filled with the forbidden fruit, she sought his presence, and related all that had occurred.

An expression of sadness came over the face of Adam. He appeared astonished and alarmed. To the words of Eve he replied that this must be the foe against whom they had been warned; and by the divine sentence she must die. In answer she urged him to eat, repeating the words of the serpent, that they should not surely die.

If we were to ask any prominent lawyer to analyze the information given in the Bible, pertaining to the fall of our first parents, they will ultimately conclude that many details, and specifics have been omitted from the crime scene, evidences that can greatly alter their conclusions, or findings. 

But, through the additional circumstantial evidence given by the prophet, most lawyers would generally conclude that Eve disobeyed God before she saw or heard the serpent, thus placing the responsibility for her sin, squarely on her shoulders.

Dry Bones # [3] Deuteronomy 34:1 And Moses went up from the plains of Moab, to the top of Pisgah; And the Lord shewed him all the land of Gilead, unto Dan, 
2 And all Naphtali, and the land of Ephraim, and Manasseh, and all the land of Judah, unto the utmost sea, 
3 And the south, and the plain of the valley of Jericho, the city of palm trees, unto Zoar. 
4 And the Lord said unto him, This is the land which I sware unto Abraham, unto Isaac, and unto Jacob, saying, I will give it unto thy seed: I have caused thee to see it with thine eyes, but thou shalt not go over thither. 
5 So Moses the servant of the Lord died there in the land of Moab, according to the word of the Lord.

[Patriarchs & Prophets pp 472] A panoramic view of the Land of Promise was presented to him. Every part of the country was spread out before him, not faint and uncertain in the dim distance, but standing out clear, distinct, and beautiful to his delighted vision. In this scene it was presented, not as it then appeared, but as it would become, with God's blessing upon it, in the possession of Israel.

[Page 475>476] Moses saw the chosen people established in Canaan, each of the tribes in its own possession. He had a view of their history after the settlement of the Promised Land; the long, sad story of their apostasy and its punishment was spread out before him. He saw them, because of their sins, dispersed among the heathen, the glory departed from Israel, her beautiful city in ruins, and her people captives in strange lands. 

He was permitted to look down the stream of time and behold the first advent of our Savior. He saw Jesus as a babe in Bethlehem. He heard the voices of the angelic host break forth in the glad song of praise to God and peace on earth. 

He beheld in the heavens the star guiding the Wise Men of the East to Jesus, and a great light flooded his mind as he called those prophetic words, “There shall come a Star out of Jacob, and a Scepter shall rise out of Israel.” Numbers 24:17. He beheld Christ's humble life in Nazareth, His ministry of love and sympathy and healing, His rejection by a proud, unbelieving nation. 

As Moses beheld the final rejection of that people so highly blessed of Heaven—that people for whom he had toiled and prayed and sacrificed, for whom he had been willing that his own name should be blotted from the book of life; as he listened to those fearful words, “Behold your house is left unto you desolate” (Matthew 23:38), his heart was wrung with anguish, and bitter tears fell from his eyes, in sympathy with the sorrow of the Son of God.

He followed the Savior to Gethsemane, and beheld the agony in the garden, the betrayal, the mockery and scourging—the crucifixion. Moses saw that as he had lifted up the serpent in the wilderness, so the Son of God must be lifted up, that whosoever would believe on Him “should not perish, but have eternal life.” John 3:15. 

Grief, indignation, and horror filled the heart of Moses as he viewed the hypocrisy and satanic hatred manifested by the Jewish nation against their Redeemer, the mighty Angel who had gone before their fathers. He heard Christ's agonizing cry, “My God, My God, why hast Thou forsaken Me?” Mark 15:34. He saw Him lying in Joseph's new tomb. The darkness of hopeless despair seemed to enshroud the world. 

But he looked again, and beheld Him coming forth a conqueror, and ascending to heaven escorted by adoring angels and leading a multitude of captives. He saw the shining gates open to receive Him, and the host of heaven with songs of triumph welcoming their Commander. And it was there revealed to him that he himself would be one who should attend the Savior, and open to Him the everlasting gates.

[Page 476] Moses beheld the disciples of Jesus as they went forth to carry His gospel to the world. Moses saw the light of the gospel shining out through the disciples of Jesus to them “which sat in darkness” (Matthew 4:16), and thousands from the lands of the Gentiles flocking to the brightness of its rising.

He had heard from the priests and elders the frenzied cry, “Away with Him!” “Crucify Him, crucify Him!” and now he heard from professedly Christian teachers the cry, “Away with the law!” He saw the Sabbath trodden under foot, and a spurious institution established in its place. Again, Moses was filled with astonishment and horror. 

How could those who believed in Christ reject the law spoken by His own voice upon the sacred mount? How could any that feared God set aside the law which is the foundation of His government in heaven and earth? He saw the last great struggle of earthly powers to destroy those who keep God's law. 

He heard God's covenant of peace with those who have kept His law, as He utters His voice from His holy habitation and the heavens and the earth do shake. He saw the second coming of Christ in glory, the righteous dead raised to immortal life, and the living saints translated without seeing death, and together ascending with songs of gladness to the City of God.
Still another scene opens to his view—the earth freed from the curse, lovelier than the fair Land of Promise. With joy unutterable Moses looks upon the scene—the fulfillment of a more glorious deliverance than his brightest hopes have ever pictured. Their earthly wanderings forever past, the Israel of God have at last entered the goodly land.

The vision faded, and his eyes rested upon the land of Canaan as it spread out in the distance. Then, like a tired warrior, he lay down to rest. “So, Moses the servant of the Lord died there in the land of Moab, according to the word of the Lord.

The phenomena of dry bones, and additional meat now leads us to the final chapter in the long running marathon of prophets, from the days of Noah, unto our own time, when God has again sent a prophet to warn the world of things to come.

As in former years, The Lord revealed “His Secret” unto His own, so He does now, for He has given us tremendous detail, and invaluable information to prepare us for the cataclysmic end of earth’s history when the great controversy between good and evil is to climax with a world war, between the laws of God and the laws of men.

Again, as in former instances, the Bible gives us the dry bones, the foundational info upon which the meat from God’s chosen prophet must be placed, so that true Christians will understand, and be able to prepare for what is about to engulf the planet. Let’s read:

Dry Bones # [4] Revelation 13:11 And I beheld another beast coming up out of the earth; and he had two horns like a lamb, and he spake as a dragon. 
12 And he exerciseth all the power of the first beast before him, and causeth the earth and them which dwell therein to worship the first beast, whose deadly wound was healed. 
13 And he doeth great wonders, so that he maketh fire come down from heaven on the earth in the sight of men, 
15 And he had power to give life unto the image of the beast, that the image of the beast should both speak, and cause that as many as would not worship the image of the beast should be killed. 
16 And he causeth all, both small and great, rich and poor, free and bond, to receive a mark in their right hand, or in their foreheads: 
17 And that no man might buy or sell, save he that had the mark, or the name of the beast, or the number of his name.

Revelation 14:6 And I saw another angel fly in the midst of heaven, having the everlasting gospel to preach unto them that dwell on the earth, and to every nation, and kindred, and tongue, and people,
7 Saying with a loud voice, Fear God, and give glory to him; for the hour of his judgment is come: and worship him that made heaven, and earth, and the sea, and the fountains of waters.

[The Great Controversy. pp 604] Fearful is the issue to which the world is to be brought. The powers of earth, uniting to war against the commandments of God, will decree that all, “both small and great, rich and poor, free and bond,” [Revelation 13:16.] shall conform to the customs of the church by the observance of the false sabbath. 

All who refuse compliance will be visited with civil penalties, and it will finally be declared that they are deserving of death. On the other hand, the law of God enjoining the Creator's rest-day demands obedience and threatens wrath against all who transgress its precepts.

With the issue thus clearly brought before him, whoever shall trample upon God's law to obey a human enactment, receives the mark of the beast; he accepts the sign of allegiance to the power which he chooses to obey instead of God. The warning from Heaven is, “If any man worship the beast and his image, and receive his mark in his forehead, or in his hand, the same shall drink of the wine of the wrath of God, which is poured out without mixture into the cup of his indignation.” [Revelation 14:9, 10.]

In closing, there is one important reminder for us to consider; there is nowhere in the Bible where it is explicitly stated that Sunday worship will become the mark of the beast, and thus, just as it was with Noah and the antediluvians, with Joseph and the king of Egypt, it will be left with each individual to decide whether we will believe “His prophets” and act upon the information given, or whether we will  reject, ridicule, or harbor skepticism about her writings.

One thing is certain however, if we desire to be saved from the wrath to come, we must believe while we can, for it is clearly stated in the Bible that the ancient Hebrews entered not in because of their unbelief. Which leads us to our final passage on this subject. Let’s read:

2nd Chronicles 20:20 And they rose early in the morning and went forth into the wilderness of Tekoa: and as they went forth, Jehoshaphat stood and said, Hear me, O Judah, and ye inhabitants of Jerusalem; Believe in the Lord your God, so shall ye be established; believe his prophets, so shall ye prosper.

                                                                         God Bless!
 

Confronting Adultery. Sabbath Afternoon. 03/24/2018

Because the sin of adultery has now become center stage in high and low places, and because of the serious nature of this sin, and it’s adverse effects on marriages, families, societies, and nations, The Lord desires that we now take an introspect look, to see if the “Breaking news” may strike a corresponding chord in our personal lives, for it will be discovered that adultery is much more prevalent in Christian churches, than many realize.

If it were to be judged solely on external actions, it would be limited in scope, but if adultery was to be assessed at the thought level, it will be found to be a much more extensive and pervasive problem than many Christians would like to admit. For this reason we will do today’s study from the indulgent thought level, just as God sees it. 

In addition, we must address several questions that pertain to the issue, either directly or indirectly such as:
[1] When does adultery occur?
[2] To whom should confession be made? 
[3] How to deal with the issue of “Sleeping dogs?
[4] When and if one’s spouse should be notified?
[5] Does confession involve risk?
[6] What does true confession look like?
[7] How does God forgive this sin?
[8] What if he/she does it again?    

We will use as our case study the sin of David with Bathsheba, because such occurrences are known to be quite prevalent, and the circumstances, results, and ramifications are quite similar to what many of us may have gone through. Therefore, we will begin
by answering the very first question: [1] When does adultery occur? Let’s read:

Matthew 5:27 Ye have heard that it was said by them of old time, Thou shalt not commit adultery: 8 But I say unto you, That whosoever looketh on a woman to lust after her hath committed adultery with her already in his heart.

Proverbs 6:25 Lust not after her beauty in thine heart; neither let her take thee with her eyelids.

James 1:13 Let no man say when he is tempted, I am tempted of God. 
14 But every man is tempted, when he is drawn away of his own lust, and enticed. 
15 Then when lust hath conceived, it bringeth forth sin: and sin, when it is finished, bringeth forth death.

Proverbs 1:10 My son, if sinners entice thee, consent thou not.

When taken together, line upon line, these verses teach us that adultery, like all other sins, takes place in the mind, with the overt actions merely being a by-product of what was thought about previously, and subsequently decided upon. Therefore, it is not necessary for any actions to take place after one’s mind has been made up, for at that point adultery, as an action becomes just a matter of opportunity.

When the scriptures use the word “Consent” it is referring to consent to the sinful thought, not only the sinful act. Thus, it is quite possible that David had committed the sin of adultery long before he saw Bathsheba, because, although he had seen her at an opportune moment, yet indeed, it could have been any other woman who would have fit his own mental profile of lustful desire. In other words, it just happened to be Bathsheba.

If like David, men and women are harboring mental profiles of anyone other than their spouse, then the sin of adultery has already taken root in their minds, and like David, it will just be a matter of time before the opportune moment arises, with anyone who fits that specific profile. Thus, when Christ cautions men against lusting after feminine beauty in the heart, it is against the backdrop of a predetermined profile that is cherished, whatever that profile may be.

If we were to observe closely, we will see a specific physical profile resurfacing over and over again, in the saga of one prominent person today, which tells us that if we ourselves are harboring any personal, or secret profiles, the devil already knows what they are, and he will absolutely match such profiles with the right person, at the opportune moment.

With this description, adultery is apparently more pervasive in Christian, and secular circles, than we may realize. In fact, when Voodoo failed with the Hebrews, Balaam turned to adultery, and the rest is history, for then it was made manifest that several of the elders, deacons, and the leaders of the many conferences back then, were secretly harboring the same sin as David, with their own personal profiles.

Then, when the opportune moment was presented, the sin that had been cherished previously was now acted upon in overt actions. The problem that we’re seeing on the national stage is in fact actively being repeated in many Christian hearts, but some do not have the “Hush” money, or the legal expertise to try to clear themselves. Let’s read:

[Patriarchs & Prophets pp 459] A long preparatory process, unknown to the world, goes on in the heart before the Christian commits open sin. The mind does not come down at once from purity and holiness to depravity, corruption, and crime. It takes time to degrade those formed in the image of God to the satanic. By the indulgence of impure thoughts man can so educate his mind that sin which he once loathed will become pleasant to him.

Numbers 25:1 And Israel abode in Shittim, and the people began to commit whoredom with the daughters of Moab. 
2 And they called the people unto the sacrifices of their gods: and the people did eat and bowed down to their gods. 
6 And, behold, one of the children of Israel came and brought unto his brethren a Midianitish woman in the sight of Moses, and in the sight of all the congregation of the children of Israel, who were weeping before the door of the tabernacle of the congregation.

Exodus 32:6 And they rose up early on the morrow, and offered burnt offerings and brought peace offerings; and the people sat down to eat and to
drink and rose up to play.
25 And when Moses saw that the people were naked; 
26 Then Moses stood in the gate of the camp, and said, Who is on the Lord's side?

This leads us to our next two questions: [2] To whom should confession be made? And, [3] How to deal with the issue of “Sleeping dogs?

In cases of adultery, confession should first be made to God, for any sin is primarily an infraction against our Maker. David alluded to this when he said in his confessions: “Against thee have I sinned, and done this great wickedness”. However, confession to the other spouse must also be addressed, for whenever a person is wronged or wounded, whether in secret or publicly, the offended one should be notified. 

When Zacchaeus made full proof of repentance to Christ, he restored fourfold to those whom he had wronged, even though they may not have been aware that such wrongs had taken place. Infidelity in marriage is similar, for even though the wife may not know, yet a grievous wrong has been done to her person, and though it be quite painful, or even risky, yet the one who has sinned must inform the other party.

A husband or wife can never deal truthfully whilst hiding the knowledge of an act of infidelity, because there will be a constant, unspoken uneasiness on the part of the one who has committed the act. God is a Spirit of truth, and thus, any secret rendezvous being held close to his/her vest, whilst singing God’s praises cannot be acceptable in His sight, for it is a form of living a lie. Let’s read:

Matthew 18:15 Moreover if thy brother shall trespass against thee, go and tell him his fault between thee and him alone.
James 5:16 Confess your faults one to another, and pray one for another, that ye may be healed. The effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much.

[That I May Know Him pp 260] If we would offer acceptable prayer, there is a work to be done in confessing our sins to one another. If I have sinned against my neighbor in word or action I should make confession to him. If he has wronged me he should confess to me. So far as is possible the one who has wronged another is to make restitution. Then in contrition he is to confess the sin to God, whose law has been transgressed.

[A.H. pp 177] There is a sacred circle around every family which should be preserved. No other one has any right in that sacred circle. The husband and wife should be all to each other. The wife should have no secrets to keep from her husband and let others know. And the husband should have no secrets to keep from his wife to relate to others. The heart of his wife should be the grave for the faults of the husband, and the heart of the husband the grave for his wife's faults.

This will call for a willingness to deal with whatever consequences might ensue as a direct result of such a disclosure as adultery, but yet it should be done, since true repentance always includes a willingness on the part of the offender to deal with the fallout of his or her actions. 

In some instances, the fallout might even include physical violence against the offender, and it may include an unwillingness to forgive and forget, or it may include a divorce, it may also involve punitive, financial damages. 

The question confronting the offender in such cases will involve a choice between being truthful and forthcoming, regardless of the consequences, or whether to let “Sleeping dogs lie” to avoid the risk of separation, a broken home, and/or a damaged reputation, etc. 

For Biblical answers on such a difficult subject, let’s turn to the experience of David with Bathsheba. The only 4 persons with knowledge of their rendezvous were [1] God. [2] Satan. [3] David. [4] Bathsheba. If David was to tell Uriah what had happened, it could spill over into the public square, and possibly spark a nationwide riot, with Uriah demanding the head of the king on a platter!

Then, if that were to occur, the whole nation would know, and the Hebrew Enquirer back then might be running back to back coverage of the affair, with all of the juicy details, tailormade to satisfy the hunger of gossip mongers. Then comes the issue of national embarrassment for David’s family, for his children might be taunted at school and church, and certain church folk might be seen grimacing every time he opened his mouth to preach.

Confession in cases of adultery can potentially be risky on several levels, for it is only God who can guarantee forgiveness when confession is made to Him. But this is not always the case with the human agent, for some spouses become so deeply hurt by the betrayal of sacred trust, that it can be quite a difficult challenge to forgive, let alone forget.

Thus, on the issue of risk, the servant of The Lord offers an insightful commentary on the potential for fallout. Let’s read:

[Patriarchs & Prophets pp 718>719] None could foresee what would be the result should the crime become known. The law of God pronounced the adulterer guilty of death, and the proud-spirited soldier, so shamefully wronged, might avenge himself by taking the life of the king or by exciting the nation to revolt. Every effort which David made to conceal his guilt proved unavailing. He had betrayed himself into the power of Satan; danger surrounded him, dishonor more bitter than death was before him. There appeared but one way of escape and in desperation he was hurried on to add murder to adultery.

Thus, the burning question is asked again: “Should David share this sensitive information with Uriah, or should he keep it quiet between himself, Bathsheba and God? Will God accept his repentance if he kept it private, or must a disclosure be made to Uriah, and potentially the entire nation. For answers we turn again to the scriptures. Let’s read: 

2nd Samuel 12:1 And the Lord sent Nathan unto
David. And he came unto him, and said unto him, there were two men in one city; the one rich, and the other poor. 
2 The rich man had exceeding many flocks and herds: 
3 But the poor man had nothing, save one little ewe lamb, which he had bought and nourished up: and  it grew up together with him, and with his children; it did eat of his own meat, and drank of his own cup, and lay in his bosom, and was unto him as a daughter. 
4 And there came a traveler unto the rich man, and he spared to take of his own flock and of his own herd, to dress for the wayfaring man that was come unto him; but took the poor man's lamb, and dressed it for the man that was come to him. 
5 And David's anger was greatly kindled against the man; and he said to Nathan, As the Lord liveth, the man that hath done this thing shall surely die: 
6 And he shall restore the lamb fourfold, because
he did this thing, and because he had no pity. 
7 And Nathan said to David, Thou art the man. Thus saith the Lord God of Israel, I anointed thee king over Israel, and I delivered thee out of the hand of Saul; 
9 Wherefore hast thou despised the commandment of the Lord, to do evil in his sight? thou hast killed Uriah the Hittite with the sword, and hast taken his wife to be thy wife, and hast slain him with the sword of the children of Ammon. 
10 Now therefore the sword shall never depart from thine house; because thou hast despised me, and hast taken the wife of Uriah the Hittite to be thy wife. 
11 Thus saith the Lord, Behold, I will raise up evil against thee out of thine own house, and I will take thy wives before thine eyes, and give them unto thy neighbor, and he shall lie with thy wives in the sight of this sun. 
12 For thou didst it secretly: but I will do this thing before all Israel, and before the sun.

Many Christians may be disturbed about why this episode in the life of a great prophet has been made public in the scriptures, and others may not understand why God said David will be exposed before the sun. The truth of the matter is that God is the one who seeks to shield our reputation from smear and scandal, whilst satan is the one who delights in accusing the brethren.

Thus, by stating that David will be entirely exposed, God is saying that He will not intervene to stop the Hebrew Enquirer from running the story, for David’s sin had caused the protection of God to be partially removed, making him vulnerable to the assaults of satan, who takes delight in character assassination, slander, and national embarrassment. Let’s read:
 
[P&P pp 722>723] Very many, reading the history of David's fall, have inquired, “Why has this record been made public? Why did God see fit to throw open to the world this dark passage in the life of one so highly honored of Heaven?” The prophet, in his reproof to David, had declared concerning his sin, “By this deed thou hast given great occasion to the enemies of the Lord to blaspheme”.

Heretofore God's providence had preserved David against all the plottings of his enemies, and had been directly exercised to restrain Saul. But David's transgression had changed his relation to God. The Lord could not in any wise sanction iniquity. He could not exercise His power to protect David from the results of his sin as He had protected him from the enmity of Saul.

Those who may be hoping, and praying that the current scandals would just vanish into thin air are either indulging in wishful thinking or are ignorant of how the sacred laws of cause and effect do work, which are often left to run their natural course. The results of one departure from integrity and virtue can make for a lifetime of repentance, which leads us to our next question: How does God forgive the sin of adultery? Let’s read:

John 3: 16 For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life. 
17 For God sent not his Son into the world to condemn the world; but that the world through him might be saved.

1st John 1:9 If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.

Matthew 12:31 Wherefore I say unto you, All manner of sin and blasphemy shall be forgiven unto men: but the blasphemy against the Holy Ghost shall not be forgiven unto men. 

This last passage which warns us against blasphemy against The Holy Ghost is of critical importance at this juncture, and leads us to our last and final question: What if he/she does it again? Now, while it is true that God will forgive every single sin that is confessed and truly repented of, yet, it is dangerous to repeat offenses.

The reason for this is that once the dogs have been let loose, it becomes easier the next time to fall into the same error, and if that pattern is not reversed by the grace of God, and through sensible choices, the person in question will eventually be fastened in the iron grip of sin, and will lose both the desire and the will to overcome, for every indulgence weakens resistance, and a pattern of bad behavior can take a permanent toll on character. Let’s read:

2nd Peter 2:20 For if after they have escaped the pollutions of the world through the knowledge of the Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, they are again entangled therein, and overcome, the latter end is worse with them than the beginning. 
21 For it had been better for them not to have known the way of righteousness, than, after they have known it, to turn from the holy commandment delivered unto them. 
22 But it is happened unto them according to the true proverb, The dog is turned to his own vomit again; and the sow that was washed to her wallowing in the mire.

Galatians 4:9 But now, after that ye have known God, or rather are known of God, how turn ye again to the weak and beggarly elements, whereunto ye desire again to be in bondage?

Matthew 12:43 When the unclean spirit is gone out of a man, he walketh through dry places, seeking rest, and findeth none. 
44 Then he saith, I will return into my house from
 whence I came out; and when he is come, he findeth it empty, swept, and garnished. 
45 Then goeth he, and taketh with himself seven other spirits more wicked than himself, and they enter in and dwell there: and the last state of that man is worse than the first.

In closing, it’s important for us to think soberly, and live righteously in this generation, for all the stops are being pulled out, and a last-ditch effort is being launched, to overthrow the people of God, even as we stand on the brink of the eternal world. Thus, in lieu of the prospect before us, and for the constant bombardment of evil being spewed, to desensitize the unwary, we must close with a word from the prophet to our own souls. Let’s read: 

Patriarchs & Prophets pp 457>458] “Now all these things happened unto them for ensamples: and they are written for our admonition, upon whom the ends of the world are come. Wherefore let him that thinketh he standeth take heed lest he fall.” 1 Corinthians 10:11, 12. Satan well knows the material with which he has to deal in the human heart. He knows—for he has studied with fiendish intensity for thousands of years—the points most easily assailed in every character; and through successive generations he has wrought to overthrow the strongest men, princes in Israel, by the same temptations that were so successful at Baalpeor.

All along through the ages there are strewn wrecks of character that have been stranded upon the rocks of sensual indulgence. As we approach the close of time, as the people of God stand upon the borders of the heavenly Canaan, Satan will, as of old, redouble his efforts to prevent them from entering the goodly land. He lays his snares for every soul. It is not the ignorant and uncultured merely that need to be guarded; he will prepare his temptations for those in the highest positions, in the most holy office; if he can lead them to pollute their souls, he can through them destroy many. 

And he employs the same agents now as he employed three thousand years ago. By worldly friendships, by the charms of beauty, by pleasure seeking, mirth, feasting, or the wine cup, he tempts to the violation of the seventh commandment.

Jude 1:24 Now unto him that is able to keep you from falling, and to present you faultless before the presence of his glory with exceeding joy, 
25 To the only wise God our Savior, be glory and majesty, dominion and power, both now and ever. Amen. 
                                                                       God bless!  
 

The Origin Of Species. Sabbath Afternoon. 03/17/2018

In Revelation fourteen, the announcement of the three angel’s messages is presented, with the stipulation that the truths contained therein are to form the pillars of the gospel pertaining specifically to our generation, and as such, God has ordained that they be featured prominently in our preaching. Thus, the reason why this presentation is now being made is simply because God says so. Let’s read:

Revelation 14:6 And I saw another angel fly in the midst of heaven, having the everlasting gospel to preach unto them that dwell on the earth, and to every nation, and kindred, and tongue, and people.
 
Where humanity has come from, sheds great light on where we are going, and our origin is connected to what our eternal destiny will be. It is impossible to believe Darwin and God at the same time, just as it’s impossible to blend Baal with Jehovah, because Darwinian philosophies and deductions are directly opposed to the sovereignty of God, and therefore, a personal choice must be made for one or the other.

Hence the reason why the first angel’s message to our generation addresses the issue of our origins, at a time when our educational system, pertaining to the origin of species, is diabolically opposed to what the Bible clearly teaches. Evolution eliminates God, but creation introduces us to the One who not only made us, but who died for us on Calvary.

Thus, in these last days of earth’s history, when the earth will be lightened by the glory of God, through the outpouring of His Holy Spirit, it will be disclosed that what we have been teaching in public schools for many years, pertaining to the origin of species, has been deeply flawed, both scientifically, and on a philosophical level.

The big bang theory immediately induces fear, for it is based on a massive unregulated explosion, which had no intelligence behind it. That’s pretty scary, for who can know if another unpredictable explosion is going to happen at any time. Conversely, a belief in creation tends to induce peace, for it shows us that we are not here by mere coincidence, but instead were created by an All-Wise intelligent God, with a specific purpose.

The very concept of a big bang theory sets the stage for erroneous modes of thought and action, for if we came here by accident, we may very well go out by accident, a very scary prospect! This is one of the reasons why the hearts of men are failing them for fear, for if we are teaching that our existence was not planned, or deliberately thought out, then in that same vein of thought, anything can happen tomorrow, capriciously.

Thus, the first angel’s message addresses the issue of the origin of species and introduces us to other immutable truths such as accountability, worship, and the final judgment, all of which are inevitably tethered to that one fundamental truth, that God created the heavens and the earth. Let’s read:

Revelation 14:7 Saying with a loud voice, Fear God, and give glory to him; for the hour of his judgment is come: and worship him that made heaven, and earth, and the sea, and the fountains of waters.

If we are to have purpose and meaning to our lives, we must have had initial meaning and purpose for existence in the first place, and therefore, creation by intelligent design paves the way for us to have structure, motivation, resilience, and hope. Hence the reason why the book of beginnings introduces us to God, who created us and all things, and shows us the purpose behind the origin of species. Let’s read:

Genesis 1:1 In the beginning God created the heaven and the earth. 
2 And the earth was without form, and void; and darkness was upon the face of the deep. And the Spirit of God moved upon the face of the waters. 
3 And God said, Let there be light: and there was light.

Great truths are brought to bear from these verses because when we read the words “God Said” it tells us that He is starting from scratch, using His word as the means of generating all animate, and inanimate objects. Here is where many stumble, for some find it difficult to wrap their minds around the concept of making something from nothing. Evolution starts with something, God starts with nothing! Let’s read:

Hebrews 11:3 Through faith we understand that the worlds were framed by the word of God, so that things which are seen were not made of things which do appear.

Psalms 33:6 By the word of the Lord were the heavens made; and all the host of them by the breath of his mouth. 
8 Let all the earth fear the Lord: let all the inhabitants of the world stand in awe of him. 
9 For he spake, and it was done; he commanded, and it stood fast. 

It’s important for us to understand the concepts espoused by creation and evolution, because they immediately diverge from the onset, never ever to be reconciled. With evolution, the beginning point for animate, and inanimate objects always starts with something. With creation, God starts off with nothing, and because of this, the two concepts are directly involved in our perceptions of salvation.

With an evolutionary mode of thought, one would believe that he must bring something to the table, thus setting the stage for such practices as penance, works, charitable deeds etc, in order for him/her to be good. But with a creationist mode of thought, a person believes through faith, that God can make a somebody out of nobody, because He specializes in making something out of nothing.

One’s belief in evolution or creation is not merely a subscription to theory, it will inevitably impact our world-view, our understanding of science, and will also affect the way we live. In fact, this is the reason why the everlasting gospel referred to in Revelation includes God’s creative power as a fundamental of any teaching pertaining to salvation, for God cannot save what He didn’t make. Let’s read:

Genesis 1: 26 And God said, Let us make man in our image, after our likeness: and let them have dominion over the fish of the sea, and over the fowl of the air, and over the cattle, and over all the earth, and over every creeping thing that creepeth upon the earth. 
27 So God created man in his own image, in the image of God created he him; male and female created he them.

Genesis 2:7 And the Lord God formed man of the dust of the ground and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life; and man became a living soul.
18 And the Lord God said, It is not good that the man should be alone; I will make him an help meet for him.
21 And the Lord God caused a deep sleep to fall upon Adam, and he slept: and he took one of his ribs, and closed up the flesh instead thereof; 
22 And the rib, which the Lord God had taken from man, made he a woman, and brought her unto the man. 
23 And Adam said, This is now bone of my bones, and flesh of my flesh: she shall be called Woman, because she was taken out of Man. 
24 Therefore shall a man leave his father and his mother and shall cleave unto his wife: and they shall be one flesh.

The same creative energy and power that was exercised in our creation, is now exercised in our redemption, hence the reason why the inclusion of God’s creative activities is directly linked to the gospel, and therefore, a person who embraces the theory of evolution, in spite of Biblical evidence to the contrary, cannot be saved in God’s kingdom, if he/she does not turn from such erroneous views.

The reason for this is that the creative power of God being denied at the onset, negates any benefits that might have accrued through Christ, because, as was clearly stated before, God cannot save what He did not make. Thus, the seventh day Sabbath is a sign of both God’s creative and redemptive power, and this is the reason why the Sabbath will be the deciding
issue that will bring earth’s inhabitants to the final conflict. Let’s read:

Exodus 31:13 Verily my sabbaths ye shall keep: for it is a sign between me and you throughout your generations; that ye may know that I am the Lord that doth sanctify you. 
14 Ye shall keep the sabbath therefore; for it is holy unto you.

One of the issues we must address is the age of our world, for evolution, and the big bang theory puts it at billions of years, whilst the development of man is taught as being a slow, evolving process coming from a line of germs, mollusks and quadrupeds, that occurred over millions of years. And the current method of carbon dating seems to support such a
theory.

However, when the scriptural record is observed, no such evidence, or deduction is even mentioned or given, for the Bible puts the age of the earth at just about a few thousand years. Thus, the message of Revelation 14:7 exposes a very deep flaw in our understanding of science, for carbon dating will be shown to be grossly inaccurate, as far as specifying the age of human remains, and bones goes.

Carbon dating is the scientific method by which the determination of the age or date of organic matter is derived from the relative proportions of carbon isotopes carbon-12 and carbon-14 that it contains. The ratio between them changes as radioactive carbon-14 decays and is not replaced by exchange with the atmosphere.  That’s according to current science.

Thus, in harmony with our deeply flawed method of carbon dating, the following “discovery” was made in Ethiopia, according to a pair of newly published papers in the journal Science. Paleoanthropologists working in Ethiopia have discovered a 2.8-million-year-old jawbone, making it the oldest fossil in the human ancestral line ever found by more than 400,000 years. Mar 11, 2015.

Now let’s see what God has to say on the age of the earth. Because we are now living in the year 2018 A.D. we can indisputably account for the years since Christ was born until now, giving us 2018 years. But up until Christ, the Bible also sheds great light on the prior age of the earth, The Lord going to great lengths to stipulate the age of Adam, Noah, Seth, and so many more of those who lived before and after the flood.

Thus, after close investigation, the Bible does not come even close to millions of years, but just a few thousand, and the prophet for our day gets more specific by clearly stating over and over again, that the world is no more than approximately 6000 years old. 

This will inevitably put creation and evolution on a deadly collision course, which as stated before, will culminate in the mark of the beast, the permanent close of earth’s probation, the redemption of those creationists who believed in Jesus Christ, and the consequent total annihilation of Darwin, and all his followers, who continue to cling to his erroneous views. That’s the cryptic message contained in the third angel’s message, of which every person must be cognizant. Let’s read:

Genesis 1: 27 So God created man in his own image, in the image of God created he him; male and female created he them. 
31 And God saw everything that he had made, and,
 behold, it was very good. And the evening and the  morning were the sixth day.

Genesis 2:1 Thus the heavens and the earth were finished, and all the host of them.
2 And on the seventh day God ended his work which he had made; and he rested on the seventh day from all his work which he had made. 
3 And God blessed the seventh day and sanctified it: because that in it he had rested from all his work which God created and made.

Genesis 5:3 And Adam lived an hundred and thirty years, and begat a son in his own likeness, and after his image; and called his name Seth: 
4 And the days of Adam after he had begotten Seth were eight hundred years: and he begat sons and daughters. 

5 And all the days that Adam lived were nine hundred and thirty years: and he died.
8 And all the days of Seth were nine hundred and twelve years: and he died.
11 And all the days of Enos were nine hundred and five years: and he died.
14 And all the days of Cainan were nine hundred and ten years: and he died.
17 And all the days of Mahalaleel were eight hundred ninety and five years: and he died.
20 And all the days of Jared were nine hundred sixty and two years: and he died.
21 And Enoch lived sixty and five years, and begat Methuselah: 
23 And all the days of Enoch were three hundred sixty and five years: 
24 And Enoch walked with God: and he was not; for God took him.
27 And all the days of Methuselah were nine hundred sixty and nine years: and he died. 
28 And Lamech lived an hundred eighty and two
years, and begat a son: 
29 And he called his name Noah, saying, This same shall comfort us concerning our work and toil of our hands, because of the ground which the Lord hath cursed.
30 And Lamech lived after he begat Noah five hundred ninety and five years, and begat sons and daughters: 
31 And all the days of Lamech were seven hundred seventy and seven years: and he died. 
32 And Noah was five hundred years old: and Noah begat Shem, Ham, and Japheth.
6 And Noah was six hundred years old when the flood of waters was upon the earth.
28 And Noah lived after the flood three hundred and fifty years. 
29 And all the days of Noah were nine hundred and fifty years: and he died. 

Thus, when calculated from the timeline given in the Bible, from Adam to Noah will give us about 1600>1700 years total, but definitely nowhere near the millions of years proposed by carbon dating. It is worthy of note that after the flood, the age of men began to rapidly decrease, and thus, the line of Shem produced Abraham just a few centuries after the flood. Then Matthew gives us the information we need to cover from Abraham to Christ. Let’s read:

Matthew 1:16 And Jacob begat Joseph the husband of Mary, of whom was born Jesus, who is called Christ. 
17 So all the generations from Abraham to David are fourteen generations; and from David until the carrying away into Babylon are fourteen generations; and from the carrying away into Babylon unto Christ are fourteen generations.

[The Great Controversy. pp 659] For six thousand years, Satan's work of rebellion has “made the earth to tremble.” For six thousand years his prison-house has received God's people, and he would have held them captive forever, but Christ has broken his bonds, and set the prisoners free.

Thus, a Bible believing Christian who embraces the creation narrative, and the timelines pertaining to the age of the earth given in scripture, will be led to correctly conclude that carbon dating is a deeply flawed science that has misled millions of students, teachers, philosophers and politicians for very many years. 

And conversely, the proponents and subscribers to the Darwinian philosophies, and their derivatives, will ultimately be led to reject the Bible, it’s author, the benefits of Christ’s salvation, and finally, the 7th day Sabbath which commemorates God’s creative work. 

Thus, in lieu of the cataclysmic events just on the horizon, a desperate wake-up call is to be given to earth’s inhabitants, alerting us to the stark choices we must make, either to worship God or Darwin. All who have been misled on evolution are now to be granted an opportunity to relinquish that which is obviously flawed, by turning to the true worship of God on His sacred day. 

We therefore close this study, not with any pleasing fables designed to soothe itching ears, but with the potent passages of scripture given by The Lord, to stir our consciences to the urgency of the moment, if haply we may turn to Him betimes, with sincere confession and repentance Let’s read:

Revelation 14:6 And I saw another angel fly in the midst of heaven, having the everlasting gospel to preach unto them that dwell on the earth, and to every nation, and kindred, and tongue, and people, 
7 Saying with a loud voice, Fear God, and give glory to him; for the hour of his judgment is come: and worship him that made heaven, and earth, and the sea, and the fountains of waters.

Joel 2:1 Blow ye the trumpet in Zion, and sound an alarm in my holy mountain: let all the inhabitants of the land tremble: for the day of the Lord cometh, for it is nigh at hand; 
2 A day of darkness and of gloominess, a day of clouds and of thick darkness, as the morning spread upon the mountains.
10 The heavens shall tremble: the sun and the moon shall be dark, and the stars shall withdraw their shining: 
11 And the Lord shall utter his voice before his army: for he is strong that executeth his word: for the day of the Lord is great and very terrible; and who can abide it? 
12 Therefore also now, saith the Lord, turn ye even  to me with all your heart, and with fasting, and with weeping, and with mourning: 
13 And turn unto the Lord your God: for he is gracious and merciful, slow to anger, and of great kindness, and repenteth him of the evil.
28 And it shall come to pass afterward, that I will pour out my spirit upon all flesh; and your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, your old men shall dream dreams, your young men shall see visions: 
29 And also upon the servants and upon the handmaids in those days will I pour out my spirit. 
32 And it shall come to pass, that whosoever shall call on the name of the Lord shall be delivered: for in mount Zion and in Jerusalem shall be deliverance, as the Lord hath said, and in the remnant whom the Lord shall call.

Revelation 18:4 And I heard another voice from heaven, saying, Come out of her, my people, that ye be not partakers of her sins, and that ye receive not of her plagues. 
5 For her sins have reached unto heaven, and God hath remembered her iniquities.

He who has ears to hear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches. God bless!
 

The Uplifted Serpent. Sabbath Afternoon. 03/11/2018

There are precious lessons to be learned from the incident of the uplifted serpent, lessons that apply equally to the Hebrews, as well as to ourselves, for it was in response to the Hebrews being bitten by the poisonous reptiles of the wilderness, that the brazen serpent was made. Then the instruction was given for all who had been stung to look and live.

But before we study the application of the remedy we must first observe why they were bitten in the first place, for we ourselves may be bitten in various ways, even though we may not attribute the bite to the true source. Also, we must realize that there are different kinds of serpents on the prowl, in our own wilderness experience, of which we must be aware.
There are financial serpents, disease serpents, and serpents whose venomous sting often produce an atmosphere in which continual disagreement with God, and with others is the order of the day. In fact, anytime our homes devolve into places of continual argument, where there is strife, name-calling, and a host of angry words being hurled left and right, it is quite possible that a fiery serpent has bitten one or more persons. Let’s read: 

Isaiah 32:17 And the work of righteousness shall be peace; and the effect of righteousness quietness and assurance forever. 
18 And my people shall dwell in a peaceable habitation, and in sure dwellings, and in quiet resting places.

In the case of the Hebrews, it was murmuring, and complaining about God, about Moses, and about everyone, and everything which ultimately caused the protection of God to be removed, and thus, the fiery serpents which were already indigenous to the wilderness environment, were permitted to invade the camp, unrestrained by divine power.

A very important note must be made here before we proceed, lest we misunderstand how things are triggered in the spiritual, and temporal realms. In the Bible, The Lord is often credited with doing that which He did not prevent, and thus, as we read, it’s important to remember that those fiery serpents of the desert were already living in their own natural habitat, but it was the restraining power of Christ alone that had held them at bay. 

We too, are also living in serpent country, and it is because of God’s mercies alone why we are not consumed. However, if we were to pursue a similar course as the ancient Hebrews did, we can cause the protective watch-care of Christ to be removed temporarily, and consequently, we too may suffer adverse effects of the serpent’s sting. Let’s read:

Numbers 21:5 And the people spake against God, and against Moses, Wherefore have ye brought us up out of Egypt to die in the wilderness? for there is no bread, neither is there any water; and our soul loatheth this light bread. 
6 And the Lord sent fiery serpents among the people, and they bit the people; and much people of Israel died.

Those of us who are prone to find fault with our blessings expose ourselves to unnecessary risks, and often become the objects of varied assaults by the enemy of souls. Hence the reason why the scripture always encourages Christians to cultivate a thankful attitude, for there are always millions of individuals who are much worst off than ourselves. The Hebrews complained about their food, but there are millions of starving people who would have greatly rejoiced to have a few crumbs of the manna that was so despised. In our refrigerators, there may be only leftovers, but at least we can be thankful to have some leftovers. Let’s read:

The Guardian: Rory Carroll in Port-au-Prince. Mon 28 Jul 2008 19.01 EDT First published on Mon 28 Jul 2008 19.01 EDT  
 
"At first sight the business resembles a thriving pottery. In a dusty courtyard women mold clay and water into hundreds of little platters, and lay them out to harden under the Caribbean sun. The craftsmanship is rough, and the finished products are uneven. But customers do not object. This is Cité Soleil, Haiti's most notorious slum, and these platters are not to hold food. They are food. Brittle and gritty - and as revolting as they sound - these are "mud cakes". For years they have been consumed by impoverished pregnant women seeking calcium, a risky and medically unproven supplement, but now the cakes have become a staple for entire families"....

1st Thessalonians 5:18 In everything give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you.

Thus, it was, according to their own testimony, that the Hebrew people acknowledged it was their sin that had caused the adversarial invasion of fiery serpents, the effects of which were taking a deadly toll on their numbers. When trouble, disease, or sustained afflictions, in various forms come upon Christians, it is in order for us to examine ourselves, to see whether there was any triggering mechanism in our words, or our deeds. This is not to say that sin is always the cause of trouble, but we should be humble enough to see if the sins of murmuring, whining, and complaining might have been the cause.

Thus, because we are now living at a time when the protective watch-care of God is to be permanently removed in the not too distant future, from those who are not sheltered by the blood of Christ, it is necessary for us to dig a bit deeper into how things of an adverse nature are often triggered within the spiritual realm, and then are inevitably transferred into the physical realm. The disciples of Christ had partaken of very large blessings, when Christ had miraculously fed the multitudes from five barley loaves and two fishes. It seemed as if heaven had come down to earth that day, and in their enthusiasm, the people had tried to take Christ by force to make Him King. But He refused, much to the chagrin of the disciples. 

They believed that a mistake in Jesus’ judgment had been made, and in response to His command to put off from land immediately, they had left with hearts full of murmuring, and complaining, for no reason. In this state of mind, the atmosphere became ripe for a bite from the “Stormy” serpent, one which still stalks individuals even in our day. Let’s read:

[The Desire of Ages pp 380] They had left Jesus with dissatisfied hearts, more impatient with Him than ever before since acknowledging Him as their Lord. They murmured because they’d not been permitted to proclaim Him king. They blamed themselves for yielding so readily to His command. They reasoned that if they had been more persistent they might have accomplished their purpose. Unbelief was taking possession of their minds and hearts. Love of honor had blinded them. To be united with a teacher who could work mighty miracles, and yet to be reviled as deceivers, was a trial they could ill endure. Were they always to be accounted followers of a false prophet? Would Christ never assert His authority as king? 

Why did not He who possessed such power reveal Himself in His true character, and make their way less painful? Why had He not saved John the Baptist from a violent death? Thus, the disciples reasoned until they brought upon themselves great spiritual darkness. They questioned, Could Jesus be an impostor, as the Pharisees asserted? The disciples had that day witnessed the wonderful works of Christ. Had they, out of the abundance of their hearts, been conversing together in regard to these things, they would not have entered into temptation. But their disappointment had absorbed their thoughts. 

Those were hours of large blessing to the disciples, but they had forgotten it all. They were in the midst of troubled waters. Their thoughts were stormy and unreasonable, and the Lord gave them something else to afflict their souls and occupy their minds. God often does this when men create burdens and troubles for themselves.

It is worthy of note, that on this occasion on the stormy lake, it was Christ who came to the disciples’ rescue. Similarly, when the Hebrews were bitten by the fiery serpents in the wilderness, it was Christ who ordained that the brazen serpent be uplifted on a pole, so that everyone who believed may look and live. 

This leads us to the core of our study, because the remedy provided by God back then, is the same remedy provided in our day. And the method of accessing the remedy is no different than the simple instruction given to the Hebrews. Let’s read:

Numbers 21:7 Therefore the people came to Moses, and said, We have sinned, for we have spoken against the Lord, and against thee; pray unto the Lord, that he take away the serpents from us. And Moses prayed for the people. 
8 And the Lord said unto Moses, Make thee a fiery serpent, and set it upon a pole: and it shall come to pass, that every one that is bitten, when he looketh upon it, shall live.
9 And Moses made a serpent of brass, and put it upon a pole, and it came to pass, that if a serpent had bitten any man, when he beheld the serpent of brass, he lived.

It was Christ who was represented by the uplifted serpent, for He became sin for us, so that we might have eternal life, and forever be freed from the ill effects of the dragon’s poisonous sting. And the same way the Hebrews were to look and live, we too must look to Christ and live. There is nothing we can do of our own selves to reverse or remove the adverse effects of sin, except to choose Christ. It’s that simple!

This central and simple truth of the gospel needs to be embraced, and understood by Christians, and all unbelievers alike today because those humanistic remedies that are recommended to fix our society’s problems only address the symptoms, not the real cause. Thus, our mission here at Omegatruth, and on Facebook, is summed up in one brief statement, “Sharing Bible-based solutions for our spiritual and physical well-being”.

Thus, it will constitute a very serious dereliction of duty if we were to advocate external remedies for internal problems of the soul. Christ, the uplifted serpent is the only answer for broken marriages, for dysfunctional families, for pornographic addiction, for health issues, for mass shootings, for terrorism, for our spiraling national debt, for infidelity in high and low places.

He is the only permanent solution to breaking those habits that have held us in chains for many years, or that argumentative spirit which surfaces in us from time to time. He is the only solution for racism, for fear, for low energy, for positive lifestyle changes, and for every other known, and unknown problem that afflicts humanity. It’s all about Christ alone!

In fact, any solution we can come up with, or may offer, that does not include Christ as the center, is sure to fail sooner or later. The mass shooting in Las Vegas was reportedly one of the worst in the United States’ history. But according to the Bible, the worst one is yet future, and that is why we must advocate for our country to return to God, in the right way. Let’s read:

2nd Timothy 3:1 This know also, that in the last days perilous times shall come. 
2 For men shall be lovers of their own selves, covetous, boasters, proud, blasphemers, disobedient to parents, unthankful, unholy, 
3 Without natural affection, trucebreakers, false accusers, incontinent, fierce, despisers of those that are good, 
4 Traitors, heady, high-minded, lovers of pleasures more than lovers of God; 
5 Having a form of godliness but denying the power thereof.
13 But evil men and seducers shall wax worse and worse, deceiving, and being deceived.

Daniel 12:1 And at that time shall Michael stand up, the great prince which standeth for the children of thy people: and there shall be a time of trouble, such as never was since there was a nation even to that same time: and at that time thy people shall be delivered, every one that shall be found written in the book.

1st Thessalonians 5:2 For yourselves know perfectly that the day of the Lord so cometh as a thief in the night. 
3 For when they shall say, Peace and safety; then sudden destruction cometh upon them, as travail upon a woman with child; and they shall not escape.

Thus, it is a sad statement that we make, that even though the simple solution God has provided us in Christ, is just within reach, millions are going down into Christ-less graves each year, just as very many Hebrews died from the venomous serpents, even though just one look is all it took. Let’s read:

[Patriarchs & Prophets pp 430] Many had already died, and when Moses raised the serpent upon the pole, some would not believe that merely gazing upon that metallic image would heal them; these perished in their unbelief. 

It was the simplicity of the remedy that caused the unbelief, for some would not believe that by simply looking to that brazen object they would be healed. Again, it was the same simplicity of the remedy that caused Naaman to go away in a rage, after Elisha told him to dip seven times in Jordan. 

If Elisha had recommended one of those drugs with a long, difficult name, that cannot be pronounced, like Clofazimine, he would have readily taken it, but the simplicity of the remedy of water was offensive to him. The same is true of the gospel, for although we are seeing with our own two eyes, that we don’t have the answers to society’s deepening problems, yet the simplicity of the gospel causes many to be offended. 

And thus, we find ourselves looking to intellectuals and professionals for answers, while the medicine God has provided in Christ is well within our reach. As a result, penance seems more appealing to fallen human nature than grace, a regimen of drugs, and daily injections is preferable to the simple diet, and natural remedies God has given in His word, and the ostentatious performances of those so-called faith healers, are more appealing than a simple faith in God. 

And whilst we grovel in our national woes, whilst we bemoan the wanton loss of life, and whilst so many millions are dying from starvation, hunger, wars, gun violence, and whilst morale is at an all-time low, and scandals of all sorts haunt our minds on a daily basis, many of us still refuse to look to Christ, the uplifted serpent that we may be healed. Let’s read: 

[Patriarchs & prophets pp 432] Many Israelites saw no help in the remedy which had been appointed. The dead and dying were all around them, and they knew that, without divine aid, their own fate was certain; but they continued to lament their wounds, their pains, their sure death, until their strength was gone, and their eyes were glazed, when they might have had instant healing.

Thus, as stated before, we present to you Jesus as the One and only answer to the world’s problems, for He brings many literal benefits in His train. Not only does Christ offer to us pardon and peace, and forgiveness of sins with eternal life, He also gives us a deep-down joy and contentment, He brings to us individual, and national stability, and security, and He removes fear of the unknown from the hearts of students and teachers alike.

Christ will also provide guidance and wisdom to our national leaders, so that they will not be deceived into basking in irrational exuberance, nor will they be flattered into thinking all is well, when all is not well. More than this, Christ offers to us peace and quietness that no man can take away, and that’s the reason why America needs to turn back to God, in the right way. Let’s read:

2nd Timothy 1:7 For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind.

Psalms 127:1 Except the Lord build the house, they labor in vain that build it: except the Lord keep the city, the watchman waketh but in vain. 
2 It is vain for you to rise up early, to sit up late, to eat the bread of sorrows: for so he giveth his beloved sleep.

In closing, let us remember that any individual, or national solution that is recommended, which does not have Christ at the center, is certain to fail, and thus, in harmony with this sacred truth, we will do well to look to Jesus, the uplifted serpent that we may be healed. Which leads us to our final passages of meditation for today, and this upcoming week. Let’s read:

1st Corinthians 1:19 For it is written, I will destroy the wisdom of the wise, and will bring to nothing the understanding of the prudent. 
20 Where is the wise? where is the scribe? where is the disputer of this world? hath not God made foolish the wisdom of this world?
21 For it pleased God by the foolishness of preaching to save them that believe. 
22 For the Jews require a sign, and the Greeks seek after wisdom: 
23 But we preach Christ crucified, unto the Jews a stumbling-block, and unto the Greeks foolishness; 
24 But unto them which are called, Christ the power, and the wisdom of God.

Romans 10:8 The word is nigh thee, even in thy mouth, and in thy heart: that is, the word of faith, which we preach; 
9 That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved. 
10 For with the heart man believeth unto righteousness; and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation. 
13 For whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved. 

                                                                         God Bless!
 

Anger Management. Sabbath Afternoon. 03/03/2018

In dealing with the issue of anger management, we should be aware that the principle of numerous assaults is often employed by visible, and invisible foes, to wear our patience thin. Then when we are at our lowest, and most vulnerable point, a sudden assault is often hurled against us, to put as it were the proverbial nail in the coffin. An argumentative spirit, and continual murmuring, and complaining tend to take their toll on the meekest of persons.

Thus, whenever a sustained assault is being made against us as Christians, we must of necessity spend quality time with Jesus contemplating His reactions in volatile situations, His gentleness, His words, His mannerisms, for by beholding we become changed. Then after a season of prayer, for grace to help in times of need, we will be fortified against any unexpected assault, however severe it may be.

From time to time, and on numerous occasions, the devices of satan were engaged against the leaders of God’s appointment, and over, and over again, we will observe that, in response, Moses and Aaron fell on their faces before The Lord, meaning that every emergency drove them to the throne of grace, not only for strength, but also for guidance and wisdom in dealing with that turbulent multitude under their care.

Though Moses is described as being the meekest of men that ever lived upon the earth, yet the enemy succeeded in wearing out his patience, until he was heard shouting angrily at the mob who, once more, gathered against his soul. The following are just a few of the many instances in which his patience was severely tested, and which after very numerous and sustained assaults, finally gave way, just upon the borders of Canaan. Let’s read:

Exodus 14:10 And when Pharaoh drew nigh, the children of Israel lifted up their eyes, and, behold, the Egyptians marched after them; and they were sore afraid. 
11 And they said unto Moses, Because there were no graves in Egypt, hast thou taken us away to die in the wilderness? wherefore hast thou dealt thus with us, to carry us forth out of Egypt? 
12 Is not this the word that we did tell thee in Egypt, saying, Let us alone, that we may serve the Egyptians? For it had been better for us to serve the Egyptians, than that we should die in the wilderness.

Exodus 16:2 And the whole congregation of the children of Israel murmured against Moses and Aaron in the wilderness: 
3 And the children of Israel said unto them, Would to God we had died by the hand of the Lord in the land of Egypt, for ye have brought us forth into this wilderness, to kill this whole assembly with hunger.

Exodus 17:1 And Israel journeyed, and pitched in Rephidim: and there was no water for the people to drink. 
2 Wherefore the people did chide with Moses, and said, Give us water that we may drink. 
3 And the people murmured against Moses, and said, Wherefore is this that thou hast brought us up out of Egypt, to kill us and our children and our cattle with thirst? 
4 And Moses cried unto the Lord, saying, What shall I do unto this people? they be almost ready to stone me.

Numbers 14:1 And all the congregation lifted up their voice, and cried; and the people wept that night. 
2 And all the children of Israel murmured against Moses and Aaron: and the whole congregation said unto them, Would God that we had died in the land of Egypt, or in this wilderness! 
3 And wherefore hath the Lord brought us unto this land, to fall by the sword, that our wives and our children should be a prey? were it not better for us to return into Egypt? 
4 And they said one to another, Let us make a captain, and let us return into Egypt. 
5 Then Moses and Aaron fell on their faces before all the assembly of the congregation of the children of Israel.

On this occasion, the ten unfaithful spies had been used as agents in spreading the seeds of doubt and resentment, throwing cold water on the prospect of conquering Canaan. Therefore, when we read in the above reference, that they murmured, and said let us make a captain, and return to Egypt, we should not conclude that their decisions were presented
calmly. The volatility of the situation is more fully described by the pen of inspiration. Let’s read:

[Patriarchs & Prophets pp 390] The unfaithful spies were loud in denunciation of Caleb and Joshua, and the cry was raised to stone them. The insane mob seized missiles with which to slay those faithful men. They rushed forward with yells of madness, when suddenly the stones dropped from their hands, a hush fell upon them, and they shook with fear. God had interposed to check their murderous design.

Numbers 16:41 But on the morrow all the congregation of the children of Israel murmured against Moses and against Aaron, saying, Ye have killed the people of the Lord.
42 And it came to pass, when the congregation was gathered against Moses and against Aaron, that they looked toward the tabernacle and, behold, the cloud covered it, and the glory of the Lord appeared. 
43 And Moses and Aaron came before the tabernacle of the congregation.

The constant murmuring and complaining began to take its toll on Moses, and in the next example, the Hebrews planned a deliberate period of bawling, and lamenting in the doors of their tents, to begin at a certain time, and sustained for quite a period. At this time, Moses became very displeased, and we can almost hear him venting his frustration with the people, by the words he then spoke. Let’s read:

Numbers 11:10 Then Moses heard the people weep throughout their families, every man in the door of his tent. 
11 And Moses said unto the Lord, Wherefore hast thou afflicted thy servant? and wherefore have I not found favor in thy sight, that thou layest the burden
of all this people upon me? 
12 Have I conceived all this people? have I begotten them, that thou shouldest say unto me, Carry them in thy bosom? 
14 I am not able to bear all this people alone, because it is too heavy for me. 
15 And if thou deal thus with me, kill me, I pray thee, out of hand, if I have found favor in thy sight; and let me not see my wretchedness.

Thus, it is against this backdrop that the final nail in the coffin is prepared by the adversary, for after so many years of dealing with these turbulent spirits, after years of being threatened with missiles, and after many false accusations of deception had been perpetuated, the people were arrayed against him, and the last assault was apparently too great, for even Moses lost it, and consequently blew a fuse, that was years in the making. Let’s read:

Numbers 20:2 And there was no water for the congregation: and they gathered themselves together against Moses and against Aaron. 
3 And the people chode with Moses, and spake, saying, Would God that we had died when our brethren died before the Lord! 
4 And why have ye brought up the congregation of the Lord into this wilderness, that we and our cattle should die there? 
5 And wherefore have ye made us to come up out of Egypt, to bring us in unto this evil place? it is no place of seed, or of figs, or of vines, neither is there any water to drink. 
6 And Moses and Aaron went from the presence of the assembly unto the door of the tabernacle of the congregation, and they fell upon their faces: and the glory of the Lord appeared unto them. 
7 And the Lord spake unto Moses, saying, 
8 Take the rod, and gather thou the assembly together, thou, and Aaron thy brother, and speak ye unto the rock before their eyes; and it shall give forth his water, and thou shalt bring forth to them water out of the rock: so thou shalt give the congregation and their beasts drink. 
10 And Moses and Aaron gathered the congregation together before the rock, and he said unto them, Hear now, ye rebels; must we fetch you water out of this rock? 
11 And Moses lifted up his hand, and with his rod he smote the rock twice: and the water came out abundantly, and the congregation drank, and their beasts also.

Smiting the rock and yelling at the people are two human reactions that are often displayed by some of us when we become frustrated, annoyed, angry, or when we lose our temper. Some folks smite the rock, by kicking at inanimate objects, or by taking a swing at someone who has aggravated us over an extended period, for no reason. 

Sometimes when the argument gets heated, we often raise our voices to a feverish pitch, which adds gasoline to an already explosive situation. And some may strike the rock through physical abuse, breaking things, driving erratically, slamming doors, and there are other passive ways, such as smoking cigarettes, to try to soothe frayed nerves.

Whatever our method, or habit, one thing we must always bear in mind is that our initial, spontaneous reaction is where the real you and me will often be manifested; but when Christ is dwelling in the heart continuously, any Christian will be enabled to retain his/her composure, in the midst of the most heated, or turbulent situation. 

In Moses’ case, his faith let go of its hold upon God, and the old man of sin inevitably, and consequently took front and center stage. Disturbing situations are not a valid excuse for us to act in an unChristlike manner, neither are we to become the sport of any
circumstances, which may arise suddenly. Let’s read:

[Patriarchs & Prophets pp 417] The two brothers went on before the multitude, Moses with the rod of God in his hand. They were now aged men. Long had they borne with the rebellion, and obstinacy of Israel; but now, at last, even the patience of Moses gave way. “Hear now, ye rebels,” he cried; “must we fetch you water out of this rock?” and instead of speaking to the rock, as God had commanded him, he smote it twice with the rod.

The water gushed forth in abundance to satisfy the host. But a great wrong had been done. Moses had spoken from irritated feeling; his words were an expression of human passion rather than of holy indignation because God had been dishonored. “Hear now, ye rebels,” he said. This accusation was true, but even truth is not to be spoken in passion or impatience. His lack of patience and self-control was evident. At the time when the water failed, their own faith in the fulfillment of God's promise had been shaken by the murmuring and rebellion of the people. 

This leads us to what followed close on the heels of Moses’ outburst of anger, for although many of us may surely understand the reason behind it, yet the reason itself is not an acceptable excuse for sin, for such variables as time place, situation, hunger, and tiredness are not reckoned as factors which warrant uncontrolled reactions. Let’s read:

[Desire of Ages. pp 125] While Satan can solicit, he cannot compel to sin. He said to Jesus, “Cast Thyself down,” knowing that he could not cast Him down; for God would interpose to deliver Him. Nor could Satan force Jesus to cast Himself down. Unless Christ should consent to temptation, He could not be overcome. Not all the power of earth or hell could force Him in the slightest degree to depart from the will of His Father. The tempter can never compel us to do evil. He cannot control minds unless they are yielded to his control. The will must consent, faith must let go its hold upon Christ, before Satan can exercise his power upon us.

Deuteronomy 3:23 And I besought the Lord at that time, saying, 
24 O Lord God, thou hast begun to shew thy servant thy greatness, and thy mighty hand. 
25 I pray thee, let me go over, and see the good land that is beyond Jordan, that goodly mountain, and Lebanon. 
26 But the Lord was wroth with me for your sakes and would not hear me: and the Lord said unto me, Let it suffice thee; speak no more unto me of this matter. 
24 Aaron shall be gathered unto his people: for he
 shall not enter into the land which I have given unto the children of Israel, because ye rebelled against my word at the water of Meribah.

Those Christians who continue to make excuses for any sin, including un-Christlike outbursts of anger, will come up to the final conflict unprepared for the sustained and determined assaults of satan, who is scheduled to pull out all the stops, and will then be permitted to tempt the remnant people of God, as if we were the only persons living on the planet. 

Hence the reason why the next passage of scripture is so relevant, coming at the time when the mark of the beast will have overspread the land, and those saints who are alive at that terrible time, must keep their cool, and their faith under some of the most trying circumstances to ever come upon man. Let’s read:

Revelation 14:12 Here is the patience of the saints: here are they that keep the commandments of God, and the faith of Jesus.

By making excuses, we may open up the possibility of committing “Reasonable” sins, based solely on certain trying circumstances. Then in this mode of thought, Peter would be justified in his anger and violence, based upon self-defense. And Abraham would be justified in having Hagar, seeing that he had waited patiently on God’s promise for many years. And Saul would then be justified in turning to witchcraft, because of national security issues.

However, we are duly cautioned against making provision for the flesh, by making allowances for a weakness, or flaw in our character, because, the grace of God through The Holy Spirit is able to keep us from falling in any and every situation. Thus, as we read the next quote, we will do well to grab the bull by the horns, and take our deficiencies to Jesus, while probationary time still lingers. Let’s read:

[Great Controversy pp 621] The season of distress and anguish before us will require a faith that can endure weariness, delay, and hunger, a faith that will not faint, though severely tried. The period of probation is granted to all to prepare for that time. Those who exercise but little faith now, are in the greatest danger of falling under the power of Satanic delusions and the decree to compel the conscience. 

And even if they endure the test, they will be plunged into deeper distress and anguish in the time of trouble, because they have never made it a habit to trust in God. The lessons of faith which they have neglected, they will be forced to learn under a terrible pressure of discouragement. We should now acquaint ourselves with God by proving his promises.

In harmony with this counsel, we will close with two passages of scripture, which should both encourage and caution us to keep our eyes on Christ, for by beholding we will be changed. As we stand upon the borders of the heavenly Canaan, we will find ourselves having to deal with increasing and serious difficulties, but God can, and will give grace to meet every emergency, if we hold onto Him in each, and every situation. Let’s read:

Proverbs 6:32 He that is slow to anger is better than the mighty; and he that ruleth his spirit than he that taketh a city. 

1st Corinthians 10:11 Now all these things happened unto them for examples: and they are written for our admonition, upon whom the ends of the world are come. 
12 Wherefore let him that thinketh he standeth take heed lest he fall. 
13 There hath no temptation taken you but such as is common to man: but God is faithful, who will not suffer you to be tempted above that ye are able; but will with the temptation also make a way to escape, that ye may be able to bear it.

                          May God add His blessing to the study and practice of his word.
                                                                    God Bless!
 

Balaam's Magic Book. Sabbath Afternoon. 02/25/2018

The magical arts practiced by Balaam in seducing ancient Israel into sin, have taken on modern garbs, which in many instances, it is difficult to discern for what they are. As far as the scripture is concerned, magic is any art that is used in getting people to sin, or to engage in activities that are proscribed in the Bible. Therefore, the definition covers a very wide swath of activities, practices, and rituals, of which the Christian must be cognizant.

Wherever satanic principles, and methods are used and adopted, to lure the unwary into sin, there it is that magic, in one form or another, to a lesser, or a greater degree, is being practiced. Current forms of magic include, but are not limited to, pornography, seduction, sexting, Voodoo, bribery, Santeria, also flattery, and seances, amongst others. 

Horoscopes, violent, and horror movies, and what many Christians refer to as the “Anointing” and certain novels are also included in the mix. These are just some of the “magical” devices used by the enemy of souls to lure individuals into sin. The Bible refers to them as devices, snares, temptations, and wiles, but they all have one thing in common, they always lead to the breaking of God’s law. Always! Let’s read: 

Deuteronomy 18:10 There shall not be found among you any one that maketh his son or his daughter to pass through the fire, or that useth divination, or an observer of times, or an enchanter, or a witch. 
11 Or a charmer, or a consulter with familiar spirits, or a wizard, or a necromancer.

Deuteronomy 13:1 If there arise among you a prophet, or a dreamer of dreams, and giveth thee a sign or a wonder, 
2 And the sign or the wonder come to pass, whereof he spake unto thee, saying, Let us go after other gods, which thou hast not known, and let us serve them; 
3 Thou shalt not hearken unto the words of that prophet, or that dreamer of dreams: for the Lord your God proveth you, to know whether ye love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul. 
4 Ye shall walk after the Lord your God, and fear him, and keep his commandments, and obey his voice, and ye shall serve him, and cleave unto him.

Thus, it is against this backdrop that we’ll now open Balaam’s magic book, so we can discern the devices that are arrayed against the multitudes, and so that we may choose wisely. The Hebrews were just upon the borders of Canaan, and Moses was preparing for the occupation, and subjugation of the land, when the king of Moab decided that it was time to resort to the dark arts, in order to bolster national security.

Balak had heard of the marvelous things Christ had done for them, in emancipating them from Egyptian bondage in a signal manner. He had also heard of the parting of the red sea, and the final overthrow of pharaoh and all his hosts, as they dared to chase God’s chosen people. And now, because of a fear of imminent invasion, the king of Moab turns to magic.

Thus, we will observe, and study several magical principles, and methods, often employed in getting us to sin against God, by adopting those alternative sources of supernatural help, that are forbidden in the scriptures. Let’s read: 

Numbers 22:2 And Balak the son of Zippor saw all that Israel had done to the Amorites. 
3 And Moab was sore afraid of the people, because they were many: and Moab was distressed because of the children of Israel.
                           
                                                                       [1] Fear.
Fear often causes many people to turn to magic, if they believe that there are no other options on the table. Some people turn to magical healers, spiritual healers, holy water, enchanted bracelets, rings, and chains, as last resorts. Thus, it is one of the devices of satan to drive persons to desperation, in thinking that there’s no way out of a certain predicament.

Also, through superstition, some folks are tempted to believe in those supernatural remedies which do not originate with God. However, there are certain passages of scripture which tell us how to deal with fear, what causes it, and how the Christian may live victoriously, like a conqueror. Let’s read:

2nd Timothy 1:7 For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind.

1st John 4:18 There is no fear in love; but perfect love casteth out fear: because fear hath torment. He that feareth is not made perfect in love.

Proverbs 28:1 The wicked flee when no man pursueth: but the righteous are bold as a lion.

Numbers 22:4 And Balak the son of Zippor was king of the Moabites at that time. 
5 He sent messengers therefore unto Balaam saying, Behold, there is a people come out from Egypt: behold, they cover the face of the earth, and they abide over against me. 
6 Come now therefore, curse me this people; for they are too mighty for me: peradventure I shall prevail, that we may smite them, and that I may drive them out of the land: for I know that he whom thou blessest is blessed, and he whom thou cursest is cursed. 

                                                                    [2] Flattery.
The magical art of flattery is quite often employed to accomplish that which might otherwise cause us to recoil in horror. Flattery is often used against a person who is disliked, or not loved, and it was first employed in the garden of Eden, when the serpent praised Eve’s beauty, whilst wanting her dead. And down through the ages, it has been in use by many persons, who have desired certain favors from one who isn’t necessarily liked. 

Even in our day it is in use, because many political leaders, many senators, and representatives, many presidents, kings, CEOs, and business leaders find it necessary to flatter certain persons to procure what they desire. Indeed, flattery has become one of the leading magical arts practiced in our day. Even with many Christians, praise is used to try to flatter God into showering down the blessings of health, wealth and material favors, which should really result from obeying God’s word. Let’s read:

Job 32:21 Let me not, accept any man's person, neither let me give flattering titles unto man.
22 For I know not to give flattering titles; in so doing my maker would soon take me away.
Proverbs 7:1 My son, keep my words, and lay up my commandments with thee. 
2 Keep my commandments, and live; and my law as the apple of thine eye. 
5 That they may keep thee from the strange woman, from the stranger which flattereth with her words.

Psalms 78:36 Nevertheless they did flatter him with their mouth, and they lied unto him with their tongues. 
37 For their heart was not right with him, neither were they steadfast in his covenant.

Numbers 22:7 And the elders of Moab and the elders of Midian departed with the rewards of divination in their hand; and they came unto Balaam. 
8 And he said unto them, Lodge here this night, and
I will bring you word again, as the Lord shall speak unto me.
9 And God came unto Balaam, and said, 
12 Thou shalt not go with them; thou shalt not curse the people: for they are blessed. 
13 And Balaam rose up in the morning, and said unto the princes of Balak, Get you into your land: for the Lord refuseth to give me leave to go with you. 
15 And Balak sent yet again princes, more, and more honorable than they.

                                                         [3] Multiple assaults.

A temptation usually consists of multiple assaults, with each succeeding effort being more intense, and desperate than the previous one. In fact, much of what we describe as temptations are not really temptations, but are most often, accidentals which have occurred as a result of our own doing, or the doings of others. 

A temptation is a well-planned, a well-timed, and a deeply laid plot that is studied, and then executed with consummate skill, at a time when persons are most vulnerable, and in many cases, individuals may be entirely unaware of what is taking place. When satan stood up against Israel, and provoked David to number the people, and when David’s sin with Bathsheba occurred, and when Peter denied Christ, the principle of multiple assaults was implemented. Let’s read:

Luke 4:3 And the devil said unto him, If thou be the Son of God, command this stone that it be made bread. 
4 And Jesus answered him, saying, It is written, That man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word of God. 
5 And the devil, taking him up into an high mountain, shewed unto him all the kingdoms of the world in a moment of time. 
6 And the devil said unto him, All this power will I give thee, and the glory of them: for that is delivered unto me; and to whomsoever I will I give it. 
7 If thou therefore wilt worship me, all shall be thine. 
8 And Jesus answered and said unto him, Get thee behind me, Satan: for it is written, Thou shalt worship the Lord thy God, and him only shalt thou serve. 
9 And he brought him to Jerusalem, and set him on a pinnacle of the temple, and said unto him, If thou be the Son of God, cast thyself down from hence: 
10 For it is written, He shall give his angels charge
over thee, to keep thee: 
11 And in their hands they shall bear thee up, lest at any time thou dash thy foot against a stone. 
12 And Jesus answering said unto him, It is said, Thou shalt not tempt the Lord thy God. 
13 And when the devil had ended all the temptation, he departed from him for a season.

[Confrontation. pp 24] The rebellion of Satan against God was most determined. He worked, in warring against the kingdom of God, with perseverance and fortitude worthy of a better cause. He is a diligent student of the Bible and is much better acquainted with the prophecies than many religious teachers. He knows that it is for his interest to keep well informed in the revealed purposes of God, that he may defeat the plans of the Infinite.

[Patriarchs & Prophets pp 37>38] Leaving his place in the immediate presence of the Father, Lucifer went forth to diffuse the spirit of discontent among the angels. He worked with mysterious secrecy, and for a time concealed his real purpose under an appearance of reverence for God.

He began to insinuate doubts concerning the laws that governed heavenly beings, intimating that angels, being more exalted, needed no such restraint, for their own wisdom was a sufficient guide. Taking advantage of the loving, loyal trust reposed in him by the holy beings under his command, he had so artfully instilled into their minds his own distrust and discontent that his agency was not discerned. 

Numbers 22:16 And they came to Balaam, and said to him, Thus saith Balak, Let nothing, hinder thee from coming unto me, 
17 For I will promote thee unto very great honor,
and I will do whatsoever thou sayest unto me: come therefore, I pray thee, curse me this people. 
18 And Balaam answered and said unto the servants of Balak, If Balak would give me his house full of silver and gold, I cannot go beyond the word of the Lord my God, to do less or more. 

                                                                    [4] Bribery
Exodus 23:8 And thou shalt take no gift: for the gift blindeth the wise, and perverteth the words of the righteous.

1st Samuel 8:1 And it came to pass, when Samuel was old, that he made his sons judges over Israel. 
3 And his sons walked not in his ways, but turned aside after lucre, and took bribes, and perverted judgment.

One of the reasons why there continues to be mass shootings across the United States is because of the taking of bribes, and gifts by those who ought to be guardians of the people. The inevitable result is that a person’s better judgment becomes perverted, to the point where guns become more important than people, for whom Christ died. 

Bribes are offered and taken, and the result is that the ones that are bribed then make laws that would promote and protect the gun industry, under the disguise of protecting the 2nd Amendment. Thus, it is that human life which was once held to be sacred, now seems to be of little value, as human sacrifices are now being offered upon the altar of guns. 

The magical art of receiving bribes and gifts has the potential to cause individuals to do things that may indeed bother their conscience, it has the potential to foster the use of policy instead of principle, and it often causes judges, and law-makers to look the other way, when grievous crimes, and wrongs are being committed, in high and low places. 

In fact, since 2012 approximately 174,000 persons have died in the United States, a direct result of gun violence, yet effort after effort, and proposal after proposal has either stalled, been killed, or has been withdrawn so that the concerns of bribers can be appeased. Let’s read:

Deuteronomy 16:18 Judges and officers shalt thou make thee in all thy gates, which the Lord thy God giveth thee, throughout thy tribes: and they shall judge the people with just judgment. 
19 Thou shalt not wrest judgment; thou shalt not respect persons, neither take a gift: for a gift doth blind the eyes of the wise, and pervert the words of the righteous. 
20 That which is altogether just shalt thou follow, that thou mayest live and inherit the land which the Lord thy God giveth thee.

                                                              [5] Presumption.
This leads us to our last and final magical art we will study today, for after Balaam had indulged bribery, and flattery, after Balak had succumbed to fear, and after Balaam had experienced multiple assaults, he now employed one of the most common of magical arts, that of presumption, by which multitudes are bewitched, and are consequently led to violate God expressed will.

In his first prayer for divine guidance, Balaam had asked God’s will in the matter of cursing His own people, a prayer that was presumptuous to begin with. However, at that time, God condescended to let him know that he should proceed no further. But with the prospect of great material benefits, honor, and wealth before him, Balaam presumes to ask God again for direction, as to what he should do.

It is one of the most common ploys of satan to have Christians asking God’s will about something He has already made plain. And some may presume to go to Him repeatedly, in apparent sincerity, to see if He would change His mind, and go along with our own plans and ideas.

As with the case of Balaam, our merciful God might condescend to address the question, for which He has already given a clear answer, and then if we still persist in asking what is His will, He may attempt to show us the error of our ways, by placing several donkeys, and angels in our path, to try to deter us from taking that one fatal step.

But, if in response to His gracious overtures, we stubbornly hold onto our plans, in spite of all the evidences to the contrary, the Lord may eventually allow us to have our own way, since He honors the freedom of choice He has given us. As we read the next several verses, it is our hope and prayer that everyone who studies this issue will not try to force his or her own will upon God, but that we will be humble, and patient enough to let Him guide us with wisdom and discretion. Let’s read:

Numbers 22:19 Now therefore, I pray you, tarry ye also here this night, that I may know what the Lord will say unto me more. 
20 And God came unto Balaam at night, and said unto him, If the men come to call thee, rise up, and go with them; but yet the word which I shall say unto thee, that shalt thou do.
22 And God's anger was kindled because he went: and the angel of the Lord stood in the way for an adversary against him. Now he was riding upon his ass, and his two servants were with him. 
23 And the ass saw the angel of the Lord standing in the way, and his sword drawn in his hand: and the ass turned aside out of the way, and went into the field: and Balaam smote the ass, to turn her into the way.
24 But the angel of the Lord stood in a path of the vineyards, a wall being on this side, and a wall on that side. 
25 And when the ass saw the angel of the Lord, she thrust herself unto the wall, and crushed Balaam's foot against the wall: and he smote her again. 
26 And the angel of the Lord went further, and stood in a narrow place, where was no way to turn either to the right hand or to the left. 
27 And when the ass saw the angel of the Lord, she fell down under Balaam: and Balaam's anger was kindled, and he smote the ass with a staff. 
28 And the Lord opened the mouth of the ass, and she said unto Balaam, What have I done unto thee, that thou hast smitten me these three times? 
29 And Balaam said unto the ass, Because thou hast mocked me: I would there were a sword in mine hand, for now would I kill thee. 
30 And the ass said unto Balaam, Am not I thine ass, upon which thou hast ridden ever since I was thine unto this day? was I ever wont to do so unto thee? and he said, Nay. 
31 Then the Lord opened the eyes of Balaam, and he saw the angel of the Lord standing in the way, and his sword drawn in his hand: and he bowed down his head, and fell flat on his face. 
32 And the angel of the Lord said unto him, Wherefore hast thou smitten thine ass these three times? behold, I went out to withstand thee, because thy way is perverse before me: 
33 And the ass saw me, and turned from me these three times: unless she had turned from me, surely now also I had slain thee, and saved her alive. 
34 And Balaam said unto the angel of the Lord, I have sinned; for I knew not that thou stoodest in the way against me: now therefore, if it displease thee, I will get me back again. 
35 And the angel of the Lord said unto Balaam, Go with the men: but only the word that I shall speak unto thee, that thou shalt speak. So Balaam went with the princes of Balak.
36 And when Balak heard that Balaam was come, he went out to meet him unto a city of Moab, which is in the border of Arnon, which is in the utmost coast.

[Patriarchs & Prophets pp 440>441] Although the will of God had already been definitely made known to him, he urged the messengers to tarry, that he might further inquire of God; as though the Infinite One were a man, to be persuaded. He did not seek to do the will of God, but chose his own course, and then endeavored to secure the sanction of the Lord.

There are thousands at the present day who are pursuing a similar course. They would have no difficulty in understanding their duty if it were in harmony with their inclinations. It is plainly set before them in the Bible or is clearly indicated by circumstances and reason. But because these evidences are contrary to their desires and inclinations they frequently set them aside and presume to go to God to learn their duty. With great apparent conscientiousness they pray long and earnestly for light. But God will not be trifled with. He often permits such persons to follow their own desires and to suffer the result. 

“My people would not hearken to My voice.... So I gave them up unto their own hearts’ lust: and they walked in their own counsels.” Psalm 81:11, 12. When one clearly sees a duty, let him not presume to go to God with the prayer that he may be excused from performing it. He should rather, with a humble, submissive spirit, ask for divine strength and wisdom to meet its claims.

[P&P 441] Annoyed at his delay, and expecting another refusal, they set out on their homeward journey without further consultation with him. Every excuse for complying with the request of Balak had now been removed. But Balaam was determined to secure the reward; and, taking the beast upon which he was accustomed to ride, he set out on the journey, impatient lest he should by some means fail to gain the coveted reward.

In our own life experience, there may be some issue we have clearly read about in God’s word, and His good will may have already been made plain. Let us then approach the throne of grace with the intent of doing God’s will, for He will hear, and answer any such prayer that is made in sincerity and truth.

But lest us never, like Balaam, ask Him repeatedly about what he has specifically commanded, for in doing so, we will place ourselves at great odds with God, and will like Balaam the magician, ultimately incur His displeasure. One of the experiences we want to avoid at all costs, is that of being at odds with the great God of heaven.

In harmony with this statement, we will close with a gentle reminder, that The Lord is ready, and willing to help and guide us, if we choose to be helped and guided. Let’s read:

Proverbs 3: 5 Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. 
6 In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths. 
7 Be not wise in thine own eyes: fear the Lord, and depart from evil. 
8 It shall be health to thy navel, and marrow to thy bones. 

                    May God add His blessing to the study and practice of His every word.

                                                                     God Bless! 
 

Worship "Him". Sabbath Afternoon. 02/17/2018

In the first angel’s message given in Revelation 14, God calls on the inhabitants of earth to “Worship Him”, for the issue of worship will culminate in the mark of the beast, the enforcement of Sunday worship, and ultimately, the close of human probation. However, before we begin, it’s important for us to understand the many ways in which false worship is manifested currently in our day, so that the true worship of God may be made plain from the scriptures.

Worship is not merely about whom we adore, it’s ultimately about whom, or what we will obey, for worship will always lead to obedience of the object of worship. If money is our god, then whatsoever it takes to obtain it will be done, including over-work, lying, stealing, fraud, overwork & false advertising. 

The illicit drug trade, and the current epidemic of opioid abuse is a direct result of sellers worshiping money. In fact, drug addiction has more to do with legal drugs, than with illegal, for with big pharma, as well as with drug dealers on the street, worshipping “mean green” and doing whatsoever is necessary to procure a profit, is the main, motivating factor in most cases.

De-regulation is an attempt to make more money, and therefore, if persons get hurt, poisoned, or are overprescribed pain medications in the process, to make a profit, then it will be done. And if consumer protections are removed, so that loan sharks, and financial institutions can prey upon the vulnerable, and the unwary, in their efforts to milk individuals, then, it is worship of the greenback taking place.

If self is our god, then whatsoever it takes to obtain praise and flattery will be done. This includes, but is not limited to slavery to fashion, slavery to cosmetic surgeries, and implants for self-adoration purposes. Self-worship includes all efforts to draw attention to oneself for purposes of enhancing one’s self-image or promoting self-interests and accomplishments.

In fact, the worship of self ultimately leads us to the use of force, which is a satanic principle, born out of the effort to exalt himself. When persons are bent on self-worship, they will stop at nothing to reach at the top of the totem pole, and in the process, many families may be torn apart, and the indiscriminate use of brute force will be manifested, as was seen in Florida this past week. 

Adultery is also a form of false worship, for it drives persons to obey the lusts of the flesh, instead of the word of God. When Adam chose Eve over God, and when Abraham obeyed the voice of Sarah, in having Hagar, also, when Solomon chose to be inundated with hundreds of wives and concubines, it was false worship being manifested, for worship always leads one to follow the dictates of the persons, or objects of worship. Always! 

The time has come for us to speak bluntly, because candy-coating the everlasting gospel will result in a tremendous loss of life. Christians, and all believers who do not gain the victory over adultery, will end up receiving the mark of the beast, for adultery is a form of false worship, and will ultimately lead folks into every other type of false worship, including the worship of the sun, via the substitute day of rest. Let’s read:

1st Kings 11:1 But king Solomon loved many strange women, together with the daughter of Pharaoh, women of the Moabites, Ammonites, Edomites, Zidonians, and Hittites: 
2 Of the nations concerning which the Lord said unto the children of Israel, Ye shall not go in to them, neither shall they come in unto you: for surely, they will turn away your heart after their gods: Solomon clave unto these in love. 
3 And he had seven hundred wives, princesses, and three hundred concubines: and his wives turned away his heart. 
4 For it came to pass, when Solomon was old, that his wives turned away his heart after other gods: and his heart was not perfect with the Lord his God, as was the heart of David his father. 
5 For Solomon went after Ashtoreth the goddess of the Zidonians, and after Milcom the abomination of the Ammonites. 
6 And Solomon did evil in the sight of the Lord, and went not fully after the Lord, as did David his father. 
7 Then did Solomon build an high place for Chemosh, the abomination of Moab, in the hill that is before Jerusalem, and for Molech, the abomination of the children of Ammon. 
8 And likewise did he for all his strange wives, which burnt incense and sacrificed unto their gods. 
9 And the Lord was angry with Solomon, because his heart was turned from the Lord God of Israel, which had appeared unto him twice, 
10 And had commanded him concerning this thing, that he should not go after other gods: but he kept not that which the Lord commanded.

[Prophets & kings. pp 58] From being one of the greatest kings that ever wielded a scepter, Solomon became a profligate, the tool, and slave of others. His character, once noble and manly, became enervated and effeminate. His faith in the living God was supplanted by atheistic doubts. He mistook license for liberty. He tried—but at what cost!—to unite light with darkness, good with evil, purity with impurity, Christ with Belial.

Thus, before we embark upon our study of the true worship, we must first go back to the place, and the time when the issues of false worship first surfaced. Lucifer was not at all content with his God-ordained position, but instead sought the highest place, so that the adoration and praise which belongs to God alone, could be his.

In the process of time, he succeeded in alienating one third of the angelic host, who joined him in his quest for self-praise. This ultimately led to violence in heaven, when it was discovered that self-worship is entirely out of harmony with God’s character. 

Then war broke out, he was expelled from heaven, and the rest is history, for the issue of worship came to our own planet, and ever since the fall of our first parents, the question has divided humanity into one of two major categories, those who will deliberately choose forms of alternative worship, and those who will ultimately choose to worship God, according to what He has commanded in His word.

It is true that in times of ignorance, sincere persons have been sucked into erroneous forms of worship, but when the issue finally bubbles to the surface, or when light from God’s word has shone on the issue, the honest in heart have chosen, and will choose to worship God. Thus, here’s a brief history of the very beginning of false worship with its inevitable results down through the ages. Let’s read:

Isaiah 14:12 How art thou fallen from heaven, O Lucifer, son of the morning! how art thou cut down to the ground, which didst weaken the nations! 
13 For thou hast said in thine heart, I will ascend into heaven, I will exalt my throne above the stars of God: I will sit also upon the mount of the congregation, in the sides of the north: 
14 I will ascend above the heights of the clouds; I will be like the Most-High.

Revelation 12:7 And there was war in heaven: Michael and his angels fought against the dragon; and the dragon fought and his angels, 
8 And prevailed not; neither was their place found any more in heaven. 
9 And the great dragon was cast out, that old serpent, called the Devil, and Satan, which deceiveth the whole world: he was cast out into the earth, and his angels were cast out with him. 
12 Therefore rejoice, ye heavens, and ye that dwell in them. Woe to the inhabiters of the earth and of the sea! for the devil is come down unto you, having great wrath, because he knoweth that he hath but a short time.
17 And the dragon was wroth with the woman and went to make war with the remnant of her seed, which keep the commandments of God, and have the testimony of Jesus Christ.

John 8:43 Why do ye not understand my speech? even because ye cannot hear my word. 
44 Ye are of your father the devil, and the lusts of your father ye will do. He was a murderer from the beginning, and abode not in the truth, because there is no truth in him. When he speaketh a lie, he speaketh of his own: for he is a liar, and the father of it.

It is worthy of note that those two, character traits, violence and all types of lying, are predominantly on display now for they are the direct result of invisible forces of darkness, working to unite the world upon the issue of false worship. And that’s the reason for the current insatiable desire for praise, and flattery, approbation, worship, and loyalty, on the part of some individuals.

Here in the sunshine state of Florida, we suffer from the destructive work of termites, that are notorious for causing extensive damage to homes, businesses, and trees, yet, very few persons have seen termites at work, for we are only aware of their presence by their droppings.

The same is true of the infernal work of evil spirits, for although they are invisible, yet their “droppings” such as the desire for praise and flattery, adultery, fraud, continual, and profuse lying, and the use of force are being made manifest in places high, and low, and as is evidenced by the daily reports about ballooning transgressions, cover-ups, and extortion. 

In fact, the first murder on this planet was over the issue of worship, and the last will be over the same. Wherever the worship of God, is exchanged for any man-made form of worship, there, violence, murder and every type of evil work is certain to follow. Let’s read: 

Genesis 4:3 And in process of time it came to pass, that Cain brought of the fruit of the ground an offering unto the Lord. 
4 And Abel, he also brought of the firstlings of his flock and of the fat thereof. And the Lord had respect unto Abel and to his offering: 
5 But unto Cain and to his offering he had not respect. And Cain was very wroth, and his countenance fell. 
6 And the Lord said unto Cain, Why art thou wroth? and why is thy countenance fallen? 
7 If thou doest well, shalt thou not be accepted? and if thou doest not well, sin lieth at the door
8 And Cain talked with Abel his brother: and it came to pass, when they were in the field, that Cain rose up against Abel his brother, and slew him.

There was no valid reason for Cain to slay Abel, for Abel was a law-abiding citizen, paying his taxes, and contributing to the welfare of society, and trying to live “peaceably” with all men. Thus, if his brother so chose to worship God in his own way, by bringing a fruit, instead of a lamb, as God had commanded, it would be his own choice.

The problem is that false worship often tends not to tolerate true worship, and thus, religious liberty and the freedom for persons to worship God, according to the dictates of their own conscience, breeds the spirit of discontent, and covetousness in the hearts of those who deliberately choose any false worship, which always, and ultimately leads such persons to the use of force. Let’s read:

Revelation 13:11 And I beheld another beast coming up out of the earth; and he had two horns like a lamb, and he spake as a dragon.
12 And he exerciseth all the power of the first beast before him, and causeth the earth and them which dwell therein to worship the first beast, whose deadly wound was healed. 
15 And he had power to give life unto the image of the beast, that the image of the beast should both speak, and cause that as many as would not worship the image of the beast should be killed. 
16 And he causeth all, both small and great, rich and poor, free and bond, to receive a mark in their right hand, or in their foreheads: 
17 And that no man might buy or sell, save he that had the mark, or the name of the beast, or the number of his name.

[D.A. pp 435>436] Lucifer desired God's power, but not His character. He sought for himself the highest place, and every being who is actuated by his spirit will do the same. Thus alienation, discord, and strife will be inevitable. Dominion becomes the prize of the strongest. The kingdom of Satan is a kingdom of force; every individual regards every other as an obstacle in the way of his own advancement, or a steppingstone on which he himself may climb to a higher place. 

Thus, because we are inundated with false worship of every type of false god, and since there is blatant self-worship, and an insatiable desire for praise, and applause of men, in high and low places, God is now calling on the inhabitants of earth to worship “Him”. Let’s read:

Revelation 14:6 And I saw another angel fly in the midst of heaven, having the everlasting gospel to preach unto them that dwell on the earth, and to every nation, and kindred, and tongue, and people,
7 Saying with a loud voice, Fear God, and give glory to him; for the hour of his judgment is come: and worship him that made heaven, and earth, and the sea, and the fountains of waters.

Proper Sabbath observance is not only about rest, it is more about obedience to God’s specific word, by recognizing Him as The Creator of the heavens, and the earth. Other practical reasons are given in the scriptures for resting over the sacred hours, among which is the fact that the Lord also rested from His work, thereby giving us the example that we should follow.

Furthermore, Christ tells us that the Sabbath was made for all men, meaning that it was given for the benefit humanity. However, worshipping God over the sacred hours of the Sabbath, is never primarily about rest, rejuvenation, and spending quality time with one’s family, because these are the very same reasons given by some on the opposite side of the fence.

Any individual can rest and be rejuvenated and can spend quality time with family and brethren on any day of the week; but the Sabbath has to do with the specific day God ordained for such activities to take place. In fact, the reasons for a cyclical rest might be quite similar on both sides of the issue, however it’s obedience to the word of God which would make all the difference. 

Thus, worship is more about obedience, than it is about praise and adoration. That’s why Jesus was moved to raise a remonstrance against the practice of giving much praise, without the corresponding obedience required, for praise minus obedience is equal to flattery, and ultimately leads to rebellion, as was the case with Cain. Let’s read:

Mark 7:6 He answered and said unto them, This people honoreth me with their lips, but their heart is far from me. 
7 Howbeit in vain do they worship me, teaching for doctrines the commandments of men. 
8 For laying aside the commandment of God, ye hold the tradition of men.

Therefore, Sabbath keeping is first and foremost, an acknowledgement that we are created, and as such we are not autonomous beings, nor do we exist in a vacuum, nor did we begin life by accident. Instead, we were created by an intelligent, all-wise God, and are therefore accountable to Him who made us. 

The theory of evolution would not be existence in our school curriculum if we were worshipping God according to the scripture. Here is where millions of Christians have stumbled, for Christ is worshipped in His capacity as Savior, but not as Creator, which is the primary reason given in the Bible. Having Christ and evolution on the same page is the equivalent of trying to have Baal and God sitting in the same seat.

The Sabbath rest also constitutes a rebuke against that materialism, and pursuit of gain, that drives us to extremes in getting and accumulating, and which often causes us to put our health at risk, and which effectively destroys the social, and moral fabric of our existence. Thus, the commonsense reasons, as well as the sacred commandment, were enshrined as permanent institutions for the up-liftment, and benefit of the human family. Let’s read:

Genesis 2:1 Thus the heavens and the earth were finished, and all the host of them. 
2 And on the seventh day God ended his work which he had made; and he rested on the seventh day from all his work which he had made. 
3 And God blessed the seventh day and sanctified it: because that in it he had rested from all his work which God created and made.

Deuteronomy 5:13 Six days thou shalt labor, and do all thy work: 
14 But the seventh day is the sabbath of the Lord thy God: in it thou shalt not do any work, thou, nor thy son, nor thy daughter, nor thy manservant, nor thy maidservant, nor thine ox, nor thine ass, nor any of thy cattle, nor thy stranger that is within thy gates; that thy manservant and thy maidservant may rest as well as thou. 

Exodus 31:13 Verily my sabbaths ye shall keep: for it is a sign between me and you throughout your generations; that ye may know that I am the Lord that doth sanctify you. 
14 Ye shall keep the sabbath therefore; for it is holy unto you.

Now, even though Sunday worship incorporates some of the principles of rest enumerated in the fourth commandment, yet it is quite incapable of producing the same good results, for the simple fact that God’s presence is not there, to sanctify it, and make it holy, neither has He ever commanded it, for it is God’s  presence which makes all the difference between the seventh day Sabbath, and the other six working days of the week.

Thus, Sunday cannot, and will never be sacred, nor will it ever be accepted as a substitute by the God of heaven, for not only does Sunday-keeping refuse to acknowledge God as Creator, but it would inevitably lead to the final conflict, just as the issue of worship sparked the conflict with Cain.

In closing, it is necessary for all professed Christians, and those beyond, to have a clear knowledge of the issues pertaining to true worship. The Sabbath of the fourth commandment is still valid, and pertains to us, just as much as it pertained to the Hebrews. Therefore, in all of the current deliberations behind the scenes, and in all of the efforts being made to bring America back to God, let us always remember to “Worship Him”, The Creator God. Let’s read:

Exodus 20: 8 Remember the sabbath day, to keep it holy. 
9 Six days shalt thou labor, and do all thy work: 
10 But the seventh day is the sabbath of the Lord thy God: in it thou shalt not do any work, thou, nor thy son, nor thy daughter, thy manservant, nor thy maidservant, nor thy cattle, nor thy stranger that is within thy gates: 
11 For in six days the Lord made heaven and earth, the sea, and all that in them is, and rested the seventh day: wherefore the Lord blessed the sabbath day and hallowed it.

Exodus 31:13 Verily my sabbaths ye shall keep: for it is a sign between me and you throughout your generations; that ye may know that I am the Lord that doth sanctify you. 
14 Ye shall keep the sabbath therefore; for it is holy unto you.

                  May The Lord add His blessing to the study and the practice of His word.
                                                                      God Bless!
 

It's All About Christ. Sabbath Afternoon. 02/10/2018

One of the foremost truths about salvation is that it is all about Christ. There have been instances where much focus, and attention are placed on the human agent, and the work of God is viewed as a necessary addition to our efforts. Now, while this is true when it is understood correctly, we should remember that all things pertaining to our salvation, originate with, and come from Christ. Thus, what some folks tend to view as prerequisites to service, and relationship with Christ, are actually not necessary, or enjoined. 

We must remember that every godly attribute of character originates in God, and as far as salvation and righteousness goes, the development and the implementation of these characteristics, are the work of the Holy Spirit, accomplished through our
choice and consent. But for anyone to believe that these attributes must first be manifested in sinners before coming to Christ, or working for Christ, is an absolute nonstarter, for the Bible does not teach this. Let’s read:

Colossians 2:6 As ye have therefore received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk ye in him: 
7 Rooted and built up in him, and stablished in the faith, as ye have been taught, abounding therein with thanksgiving. 
9 For in him dwelleth all the fulness of the Godhead bodily. 
10 And ye are complete in him, which is the head of all principality and power.

John 15:4 Abide in me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit of itself, except it abide in the vine; no more can ye, except ye abide in me. 5 I am the vine, ye are the branches: He that abideth in me, and I in him, the same bringeth forth much fruit: for without me ye can do nothing.

[Reflecting Christ pp 35] All righteous attributes of character dwell in God as a perfect, harmonious whole. Everyone who receives Christ as his personal Savior is privileged to possess these attributes. This is the science of holiness.

Therefore, in harmony with these fundamental, and central truths, there are several theories and tenets currently held by many Christians, which must now be addressed, and corrected by the word of God.

[1] An individual does not have to be humble as a prerequisite to accepting Christ, for humility is a by-product of the Holy Spirit dwelling in a person. As the work of salvation is begun, and continues in our hearts, more and greater humility will be seen, but for us to expect humility up front isn’t Biblical.

Mark 3:17 And James the son of Zebedee, and John the brother of James he surnamed Boanerges, which is, The sons of thunder.

Luke 9:51 And it came to pass, when the time was come that he should be received up, he steadfastly set his face to go to Jerusalem, 
52 And sent messengers before his face: and they went, and entered into a village of the Samaritans, to make ready for him. 
53 And they did not receive him, because his face was as though he would go to Jerusalem. 
54 And when his disciples James and John saw this, they said, Lord, wilt thou that we command fire to come down from heaven, and consume them, even as Elias did?
55 But he turned, and rebuked them, and said, Ye know not what manner of spirit ye are of. 
56 For the Son of man is not come to destroy men's lives, but to save them. And they went to another village.

By the way, these disciples had been preaching for several months, and had been ordained by Christ Himself, yet from this, and other accounts, it’s quite apparent that they were far from being humble, in the true sense of the word. In the upper room, the unconverted nature of the disciples was displayed, for none of them seemed humble enough to wash the other’s feet. In commenting on that occasion, the servant of God says the following. Let’s read:

D.A. pp 643>644] On this last evening with His disciples, Jesus had much to tell them. But Jesus saw that they could not bear what He had to say. His sorrowful words, pointing to His own suffering, had made little impression. The glances they cast upon each other told of jealousy and contention. There was “a strife among them, which of them
should be accounted the greatest.”

This contention, carried on in the presence of Christ, grieved and wounded Him. The disciples clung to their favorite idea that Christ would assert His power and take His position on the throne of David. And in heart each still longed for the highest place in the kingdom. They had placed their own estimate upon themselves and upon one another, and, instead of regarding their brethren as more, worthy, they had placed themselves first.

The request of James and John to sit on the right and left of Christ's throne had excited the indignation of the others. That the two brothers should presume to ask for the highest position so stirred the ten that alienation threatened. They felt that they were misjudged, that their fidelity and talents were not appreciated.

At a feast it was customary for a servant to wash the feet of the guests, and on this occasion, preparation had been made for the service. The pitcher, the basin, and the towel were there, in readiness for the feet washing; but no servant was present, and it was the disciples’ part to perform it. But each of the disciples, yielding to wounded pride, determined not to act the part of a servant. All manifested a stoical unconcern, seeming unconscious that there was anything for them to do. By their silence they refused to humble themselves.

Humility is not a prerequisite for accepting Christ, nor is it a precondition for working to build up His kingdom. That’s because humility never ever occurs naturally within the human heart, but instead, is the result of God’s grace alone, through the in- dwelling of The Holy Ghost. In fact, what some may view as lethargy, and unwillingness in fellow Christians, is more often a deficit of the Holy Spirit in the heart. Let’s read:

[D.A. pp 295>296] All the disciples had serious faults when Jesus called them to His service. Even John, who came into closest association with the meek and lowly One, was not himself naturally meek and yielding. He and his brother were called “the sons of thunder.” While they were with Jesus, any slight shown to Him aroused their indignation, and combativeness. 

Evil temper, revenge, the spirit of criticism, were all in the beloved disciple. He was proud and ambitious to be first in the kingdom of God. But day by day, in contrast with his own violent spirit, he beheld the tenderness and forbearance of Jesus, and heard His lessons of humility and patience. He opened his heart to the divine influence and became not only a hearer but a doer of the Savior's words. 

Thus, humility is the result of Christ’s work of grace in our hearts and is something that is accomplished in His own time and way. That voluntary humility of which Paul spoke is of human origin and is actually a disguised form of pride. Conversely, Christ brings us into situations, and experiences which develop the true humility in those who so choose, and anything else is nothing short of a counterfeit. Let’s read:

Deuteronomy 8:2 And thou shalt remember all the way which the Lord thy God led thee these forty years in the wilderness, to humble thee, and to prove thee, to know what was in thine heart, whether thou would keep his commandments, or no. 
3 And he humbled thee, and suffered thee to hunger, and fed thee with manna, which thou knewest not, neither did thy fathers know, that he might make thee know that man doth not live by bread only, but by every word that proceedeth out of the mouth of the Lord doth man live.

This last passage is of particular interest, for it says that God used food as the means of humbling His people, so the question is: What does food have to do with humility? For us to understand what that passage means we must first remember that the children of Israel ate manna for forty years, a pretty long time to be fed one article of food. It is true that at times they craved variety and God granted it, but their staple every day was manna. Let’s read:

Exodus 16:35 And the children of Israel did eat manna forty years, until they came to a land inhabited; they did eat manna, until they came unto the borders of the land of Canaan.

Question: Could one article of food supply all of the necessary nutrients our bodies need, and if not, will we be grossly deficient in certain areas? It’s worthy of note that the Hebrews requested a wider variety, of food, something that is quite consistent with the guidelines given by the National institutes of Health. And almost all professionals in the wellness industry will unanimously agree that a wide variety of food is essential to well-being, strength, and longevity. So, the request of the Hebrews was not as far-fetched as some may think, or was it?. Let’s read:

Numbers 11:5 We remember the fish, which we did eat in Egypt freely; the cucumbers, and the melons, and the leeks, and the onions, and the garlic. 
6 But now our soul is dried away: there is nothing at all, beside this manna, before our eyes.

[N.I.H] The 2015-2020 edition of Dietary Guidelines for Americans emphasizes eating a variety of foods like vegetables, fruits, whole grains, low-fat and fat-free dairy, and lean meats. The new guidelines, developed by “experts” in the fields of nutrition, health, and medicine, are designed to combat rising rates of chronic, diet-related diseases in a way that is easier for consumers to adopt, the “experts” said. A healthy eating plan includes lean meats, poultry, fish, beans, eggs, and nuts.

And thus, if any Hebrew was to choose manna over the conventional wisdom on variety, then he would by so doing be choosing God’s method of humbling him, a method that defies logic, and requires faith, belief, trust, and obedience, with the accompanying inevitable results. In fact, faith, and obedience are much, more essential to health than vitamins, and minerals, because, as the topic says, it’s all about Christ. Let’s read: 

Psalms 105:37 He brought them forth also with silver and gold: and there was not one feeble person among their tribes. 

Exodus 34:27 And the Lord said unto Moses, Write thou these words. 
28 And he was there with the Lord forty days and forty nights; he did neither eat bread, nor drink water.

[2] Conversion is not a prerequisite either, when it comes to working for Christ, or having a relationship with Him. Ongoing conversion is also the by-product of God’s grace in human hearts, and therefore, we must not view one as unqualified, or unprepared to serve, just because he or she may not be an entirely converted Christian. In fact, the disturbing news is that most of us Christians are not converted, as yet. The apostle Paul puts it this way. Let’s read:

1st Corinthians 3:3 For ye are yet carnal: for whereas there is among you envying, and strife and divisions, are ye not carnal, and walk as men?

Luke 22:31 And the Lord said, Simon, Simon, behold, Satan hath desired to have you, that he may sift you as wheat: 
32 But I have prayed for thee, that thy faith fail not: and when thou art converted, strengthen thy brethren. 
33 And he said unto him, Lord, I am ready to go with thee, both into prison, and to death.

Matthew 26:4 Jesus said unto him, Verily I say unto thee, That this night, before the cock crow, thou shalt deny me thrice. 
35 Peter said unto him, Though I should die with thee, yet will I not deny thee. Likewise, also said all the disciples.

[3] One does not have to be willing either, as a precondition, to serving or accepting God’s grace. Willingness in spiritual things, like all other godly characteristics is a direct result of God’s work in our hearts. The energy and zeal manifested in doing any righteousness, or in serving faithfully, must never be credited to the Christian, as if his/her willingness originated with themselves, for this characteristic is also a by-product of the indwelling Holy Ghost. 

When the first sanctuary in the wilderness was to be built, the record shows us that the Hebrews who responded to Moses’ appeal for contributions, did so willingly, but it was God alone who sent forth His Spirit into their hearts, and the rest is history. Their willingness, and liberality was the direct result of God’s work in their hearts, and He alone must be glorified for what transpired, because it’s all about Christ. Let’s read:

Exodus 35:21 And they came, everyone whose heart stirred him up, and everyone whom his spirit made willing, and they brought the Lord's offering to the work of the tabernacle of the congregation, and for all his service, and for the holy garments.

Exodus 31:30 And Moses said unto the children of Israel, See, the Lord hath called by name Bezaleel the son of Uri, the son of Hur, of the tribe of Judah; 
31 And he hath filled him with the spirit of God, in wisdom, in understanding, and in knowledge, and in all manner of workmanship; 
32 And to devise curious works, to work in gold, and in silver, and in brass, 
33 And in the cutting of stones, to set them, and in carving of wood, to make any manner of cunning work. 
34 And he hath put in his heart that he may teach, both he, and Aholiab, the son of Ahisamach, of the tribe of Dan. 
35 Them hath he filled with wisdom of heart, to work all manner of work, of the engraver, and of the cunning workman, and of the embroiderer, in blue, and in purple, in scarlet, and in fine linen, and of the weaver, even of them that do any work, and of those that devise cunning work.

The same experience was repeated, when in David’s day, requests were made for the building of the first temple. The people brought willingly of their goods, but David acknowledged that the attitude of giving did not originate with the people. Like as with the characteristic of humility, it was God alone who had moved upon the hearts of the people, and the rest is history. Let’s read:

1st Chronicles 29:9 Then the people rejoiced, for that they offered willingly, because with perfect heart they offered willingly to the Lord: and David the king also rejoiced with great joy. 
10 Wherefore David blessed the Lord before all the congregation: and David said, Blessed be thou, Lord God of Israel our father, for ever and ever. 
11 Thine, O Lord is the greatness, and the power, and the glory, and the victory, and the majesty: for all that is in the heaven and in the earth is thine; thine is the kingdom, O Lord, and thou art exalted as head above all. 
12 Both riches and honor come of thee, and thou reignest over all; and in thine hand is power and might; and in thine hand it is to make great, and to give strength unto all.
13 Now therefore, our God, we thank thee, and praise thy glorious name. 
14 But who am I, and what is my people, that we should be able to offer so willingly after this sort? for all things come of thee, and of thine own have we given thee.

[B.E. pp 380] It was God alone who had made His people generous. He, not man, must be glorified. His Spirit had made them willing. If His love had not moved on the hearts of the people, the temple would never have been built.

This brings us to one of the most important issues to be addressed, as it pertains to our service, and our relationship with God. Question: What role does the human agent have to play, in the plan of salvation, and all that it entails. The answer is one, “CHOICE”. 

Whenever we choose good over evil, or service over selfishness, or humility over pride, and willingness in place of procrastination and excuses, then Christ couples His Holy Spirit with our choice, to bring to pass in our hearts, that which otherwise, would never have occurred, for it’s all about Christ.

Joshua 24:15 And if it seem evil unto you to serve the Lord, choose you this day whom ye will serve; but as for me and my house, we will serve the Lord.

Deuteronomy 30:19 I call heaven and earth to record this day against you, that I have set before you life and death, blessing and cursing: therefore choose life, that both thou and thy seed may live.

This leads us to a stark reality existing in churches today across the land, for it seems as if members have to be induced by rewards, to serve; rewards such as praise, accolades, and higher positions, and public recognition of one’s efforts or contributions. In some instances, some may even be offended, or discouraged if their names were not mentioned as noteworthy from the pulpit. 

Then again, it seems as if some have to be literally begged and pleaded with to do some little service for The Master, albeit with great reluctance and an attitude. The real underlying problem is that God’s Spirit is largely absent from many churches, even though members may not be cognizant of the fact.

Thus, the Bible study for today will center around a parable given by Christ, which demonstrates the way in which our service and our relationship with Christ is implemented and evaluated in the courts of heaven. As we read we will discover in surprise, that it is the one who initially had the bad attitude, who ultimately did God’s will, whatever his or her attitude may have been. 

The prospect was laid before each, the choices were made, and then the one who had chosen God’s will was subsequently endowed and fully equipped with everything he needed to accomplish what God had required. Thus, it is in all aspects of our salvation, because the choice is ours, as Joshua rightly put it, “Choose ye this day whom ye will serve”. 

But one thing is certain, once we choose Christ, it becomes all about Christ; His work, His enabling, His energy, His Spirit, His willingness, His humility, His righteousness, His steadfastness, His character, His will power, and everything else that is included in the production, and the implementation of all the Christian graces, for it’s all about Christ. Let’s read:

Matthew 21:28 A certain man had two sons; and he came to the first, and said, Son, go work today in my vineyard. 
29 He answered and said, I will not: but afterward he repented, and went. 
30 And he came to the second and said likewise. And he answered and said, I go, sir: and went not. 
31 Whether of them twain did the will of his father?
They say unto him, The first. Jesus saith unto them, Verily I say unto you, That the publicans and the harlots go into the kingdom of God before you.

The second son had made a spontaneous choice in the heat of the moment, whilst the organist was playing, and the stirring appeals were being made from the pulpit; and thus, his apparent willingness, and humility was of human origin. Thus, when it came time for the rubber to meet the road, when it came time to deliver on his promise, he was found to be recanting, and consequently ran out of steam.

However, the first son, who seemed to be unwilling initially, obviously thought the matter through, and made a deliberate choice to serve, and the rest is history, for after choosing, he was empowered, and given the wherewithal to accomplish the Father’s will. In other words, everything that was needed was provided, and thus He who was once unwilling was enabled to do and dare for The Master.

In the Christian’s life experience, the same is true, for whatsoever is worth accomplishing, whether it be in spiritual or temporal lines, we must remember that it’s all about Christ. We choose, and then the work of the Holy Spirit in enabling us to perform the will of God, is implemented, because it’s all about Christ. 

We therefore close with a quote from the pen of inspiration, and a passage of scripture which would remind us of our constant dependence and need of Christ. Let’s read:

[C.O.L. pp 349>350] God desires that His workers in every line shall look to Him as the Giver of all they possess. All right inventions and improvements have their source in Him who is wonderful in counsel and excellent in working. The skillful touch of the physician's hand, his power over nerve and muscle, his knowledge of the delicate organism of the body, is the wisdom of divine power, to be used in behalf of the suffering. 

The skill with which the carpenter uses the hammer, the strength with which the blacksmith makes the anvil ring, comes from God. He has entrusted men with talents, and He expects them to look to Him for counsel. Whatever we do, in whatever department of the work we are placed, He desires to control our minds that we may do perfect work.

Divine and human agencies are to combine in temporal as well as in spiritual achievements. They are to be united in all human pursuits, in mechanical and agricultural labors, in mercantile and scientific enterprises. There must be co-operation in everything embraced in Christian activity.

Philippians 4:13 I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me.

                                                                     God Bless!
 

Strange Fire! Sabbath Afternoon. 02/03/2018

Strange fire, as it pertains to worship, is offering to God something other than that which He has clearly commanded. As fallen human beings, we have to be taught how to worship, because we do not naturally have it within us to worship anyone but ourselves. It is because of this fact why God has given extensive, detailed, and meticulous instructions regarding our worship of Him. Any deliberate deviation from what He has outlined, and approved, is a form of strange fire, of our own kindling.

Strange fires were first kindled by Cain, who sought to force The Lord to accept that which He had not commanded, by offering fruit of the ground instead of a lamb of the flocks. By offering a substitute, Cain had proposed to worship God according to his own finite ideas, and he thereby set the stage for other strange fires to be kindled by self-serving, subjective worshipers down through the ages. Let’s read:

Genesis 4:3 And in process of time it came to pass, that Cain brought of the fruit of the ground an offering unto the Lord. 
4 And Abel, he also brought of the firstlings of his flock and of the fat thereof. And the Lord had respect unto Abel and to his offering: 
5 But unto Cain and to his offering he had not respect. And Cain was very wroth, and his countenance fell. 
6 And the Lord said unto Cain, Why art thou wroth? and why is thy countenance fallen? 
7 If thou doest well, shalt thou not be accepted? and if thou doest not well, sin lieth at the door.

In our day, contemporary Christianity has kindled a host of strange fires, which God neither recognizes or endorses. These fires range from the incoherent speaking in tongues, to Sunday keeping, and from dancehall-style praise, to the free use of alcoholic beverages in some communion services. Strange  fires also include the use of the tithes, and offerings for personal gain, and self-aggrandizement.

But God has clearly stated in His word, and by the teaching of His providences, that strange fires will never be accepted, whether those fires be kindled deliberately, or inadvertently. That passage in the book of Acts which says, “At the times of ignorance God winked” is often misunderstood to mean that God accepted substitutes. Winked is not a synonym for accept, and furthermore, God commanded that necessary corrections to be made, two thousand years ago.

In the instance of Aaron’s sons, the strange fire was kindled under the influence of alcohol, and their sin was speedily, and signally dealt with, so that future generations would have on record, the way God will also deal with modern-day strange fires. Very many Christians are being brainwashed by false prophets into accepting a “Cool” Jesus, who sits idly by, while His laws, statutes, and His instructions are trampled upon.

Then again there are others who believe that God’s commands are all optional, and subject to variables such as feelings, emotionalism, and impulse. But in the example of Aaron’s two sons, God showed that He will not be trifled with, and any individual who desires to serve and worship Him, must of necessity do so according to those instructions given in bible, and nothing else. When we as mortals understand this basic fact, we will be prepared to worship God in spirit, and in truth. Let’s read:

Leviticus 10:1 And Nadab and Abihu, the sons of Aaron, took either of them his censer, and put fire therein, and put incense thereon, and offered strange fire before the Lord, which he commanded them not. 
2 And there went out fire from the Lord, and devoured them, and they died before the Lord. 
3 Then Moses said unto Aaron, This is it that the Lord spake, saying, I will be sanctified in them that come nigh me, and before all the people I will be glorified. And Aaron held his peace. 
4 And Moses called Mishael and Elzaphan, the sons of Uzziel the uncle of Aaron, and said unto them, Come near, carry your brethren from before the sanctuary out of the camp. 
5 So they went near, and carried them in their coats out of the camp; as Moses had said. 
6 And Moses said unto Aaron, and unto Eleazar and unto Ithamar, his sons, Uncover not your heads, neither rend your clothes; lest ye die, and lest wrath come upon all the people: but let your brethren, the whole house of Israel, bewail the burning which the Lord hath kindled. 
7 And ye shall not go out from the door of the tabernacle of the congregation, lest ye die: for the anointing oil of the Lord is upon you. 
8 And the Lord spake unto Aaron, saying, 
9 Do not drink wine nor strong drink, thou, nor thy sons with thee, when ye go into the tabernacle of the congregation, lest ye die: it shall be a statute for ever throughout your generations: 
10 And that ye may put difference between holy and unholy, and between unclean and clean.

There are very grave, and important lessons to be learned from this singular experience, lessons that are greatly needed in our day and age, where any, and everything seems to be incorporated under the banner of Christian worship, and lifestyle.

[1] Alcoholic beverages distort a person’s judgment and interferes with one’s ability to distinguish good from evil, and right from wrong. This is the reason given in the scripture for the perversion of the sons of Aaron, for their better judgment was impaired by the use of spiritous liquors; and by the way, there is a reason, why alcoholic beverages are referred to as “spirits”. Let’s read:

Leviticus 10:9 Do not drink wine nor strong drink, thou, nor thy sons with thee, when ye go into the tabernacle of the congregation, lest ye die. 
10 That ye may put difference between holy and unholy, and between unclean and clean.

Proverbs 23:29 Who hath woe? who hath sorrow? who hath contentions? who hath babbling? who hath wounds without cause? who hath redness of eyes? 
30 They that tarry long at the wine; they that go to seek mixed wine. 
31 Look not thou upon the wine when it is red, when it giveth his color in the cup, when it moveth itself aright. 
32 At the last it biteth like a serpent, and stingeth like an adder. 
33 Thine eyes shall behold strange women, and thine heart shall utter perverse things. 
34 Yea, thou shalt be as he that lieth down in the midst of the sea, or as he that lieth upon the top of a mast. 
35 They have stricken me, shalt thou say, and I was not sick; they have beaten me, and I felt it not: when shall I awake? I will seek it yet again.

When David had sinned against Bathsheba, and her husband Uriah, by their illicit rendezvous, Uriah had displayed excellent morals, by refusing to go home and have intimate relations with his wife. Thus, in sheer desperation, David sought as a last resort, to interfere with Uriah’s rational judgment, by offering him several bottles of Jack Daniels on the rocks, so as to confuse Uriah’s better judgment.

However, in this particular instance, the providence of God overruled David’s ploys, and kept Uriah both sober, and drunk at the same time, so that the small window of opportunity David had been hoping for, to credit Bathsheba’s pregnancy to Uriah now faded into oblivion. But one thing is certain, David knew exactly what he was doing when he reached into his refrigerator for those bottles of alcoholic beverages. Let’s read:

2nd Samuel 11:12 And David said to Uriah, Tarry here today also, and tomorrow I will let thee depart. 
13 And when David had called him, he did eat and drink before him; and he made him drunk: and at even he went out to lie on his bed with the servants of his lord but, went not down to his house.

[2] God does not accept, partial obedience that is deliberate, meaning, that if we know better, He will require better from us. 

The idea that we are free to pick, and choose what we desire to obey is a non-starter, and, will lead us to outright rebellion. It is not good enough to keep nine commandments out of ten, because the one thus omitted, puts us in the category of breaking all ten. Spouses should not be faithful to each other 90% of the time, because the other 10% can lead to a permanent fracture in their relationship. Let’s read:

James 2:10 For whosoever shall keep the whole law, and yet offend in one point, he is guilty of all.

[3] Great blessings, great revelations, and privileges should always lead us to greater obedience. Those who are privileged to talk with God in the mountain must render commensurate obedience in the valley, for privilege is not license, and great revelations do not release one from obeying all of God’s word. On the contrary, the more revelations are given us, the more is expected of us. Let’s read:

Luke 12:48 For unto whomsoever much is given, of him shall be much required: and to whom men have committed much, of him they will ask the more.

[Patriarchs & Prophets pp 359>360] Next to Moses and Aaron, Nadab and Abihu had stood highest in Israel. They had been especially honored by the Lord, having been permitted with the seventy elders to behold His glory in the mount. But their transgression was not therefore to be excused or lightly regarded. All this rendered their sin more grievous. 

Because men have received great light, because they have, like the princes of Israel, ascended to the mount, and been privileged to have communion with God, and to dwell in the light of His glory, let them not flatter themselves that they can afterward sin with impunity, that because they have been thus honored, God will not be strict to punish their iniquity. This is a fatal deception. 

The great light and privileges bestowed require returns of virtue and holiness corresponding to the light given. Great blessings or privileges should never lull to security or carelessness. They should never give license to sin or cause the recipients to feel that God will not be exact with them.

[4] False sympathy, which leads us to view God’s corrective judgments as cruel, unwarranted, and unfair, puts us in a position of aiding and abetting in the crimes committed. God is a Spirit, and therefore sympathy given to those who are deserving of God’s correction is a sign that we disagree with His actions and sets the stage for rebellion by contagion. 

When Korah, Dathan, and Abiram were destroyed because of their rebellion against Moses and Aaron, the people had fled in terror, but in their hearts was murmuring against God, for what they thought was the unjust treatment of the conspirators, and their families. And the following day, this false sympathy found open expression in their complaints, and accusations against the Lord’s anointed. Let’s read:

Numbers 16:41 But on the morrow all the congregation of the children of Israel murmured against Moses and against Aaron, saying, Ye have killed the people of the Lord. 
42 And it came to pass, when the congregation was gathered against Moses and against Aaron, that they looked toward the tabernacle of the congregation: and, behold, the cloud covered it, and the glory of the Lord appeared. 
44 And the Lord spake unto Moses, saying, 
45 Get you up from among this congregation, that I may consume them as in a moment. And they fell upon their faces. 
46 And Moses said unto Aaron, Take a censer, and put fire therein from off the altar, and put on incense, and go quickly unto the congregation, and make an atonement for them: for there is wrath gone out from the Lord; the plague is begun. 
47 And Aaron ran into the midst of the congregation, and behold, the plague was begun among the people: and he put on incense, and made an atonement for the people. 
48 And he stood between the dead and the living; and the plague was stayed. 

Leviticus 10:6 And Moses said unto Aaron, and unto Eleazar and unto Ithamar, his sons, Uncover not your heads, neither rend your clothes; lest ye die, and lest wrath come upon all the people.

In closing, there is a whole lot of foolishness taking place across the land, and liars, fraudsters, and all those who deliberately destroy the land, are found to be multiplying at an unprecedented scale. And for all intents and purposes it may now seem to the casual observer that God has forsaken the earth.

In addition to this, many professed Christians are countenancing the cruelties being done across the land, and no one seems to have the nerve, or the resolve to stand up for truth and righteousness. But when men fail to carry out God’s revealed will, then He will take matters into His own hands, which will result in catastrophic judgments, the likes of which we have never seen, or expected from The God of love. Let’s read:

[P&P pp 578] Those who have too little courage to reprove wrong, are held accountable for the evil that may result from their neglect of duty. We are just as responsible for evils that we might have checked in others by as if the acts had been our own.

Strange fires, which put the human agent at odds with God’s revealed will should be avoided under all circumstances, for God is impartial in His dealings, and if Moses was prevented from entering Canaan, because of striking the rock when God had required him to speak to the rock, then we who are living on the brink of eternity should clearly understand that whatever God requires, that alone will be accepted.

Therefore, we close with two important passages of scripture, so that whosoever will, may understand what is coming upon the earth, as a result of the many forms of strange fires now being offered. Let’s read:

Ezekiel 3:18 When I say unto the wicked, Thou shalt surely die; and thou givest him not warning, nor speakest to warn the wicked from his wicked way, to save his life; the same wicked man shall die in his iniquity; but his blood will I require at thine hand. 
19 Yet if thou warn the wicked, and he turn not from his wickedness, nor from his wicked way, he shall die in his iniquity; but thou hast delivered thy soul.

Isaiah 28:21 For the Lord shall rise up as in mount Perazim, he shall be wroth as in the valley of Gibeon, that he may do his work, his strange work; and bring to pass his act, his strange act. 
22 Now therefore be ye not mockers, lest your bands be made strong: for I have heard from the Lord God of hosts a consumption, even determined upon the whole earth.

                                   May God add His blessing to the study of His word.   
                                                                    God Bless!
 

Successful Christian Business. Sabbath Afternoon. 01/27/2018

The purpose of this Bible study is not to trigger a gold rush, but instead is to state distinctly the close relationship between character building, and those temporal concerns of life, by which every person’s eternal destiny is to be assessed. The bulk of our Christian experience, and character building actually takes place during the six working days of the week, as we manage the mundane things of life, and as we interact with our fellowmen, not merely on Sabbath when we worship God.

Mammon, which has to do with material blessings, is often viewed as having an evil connotation, and some Christians are prone to avoid business, and investing because of the temptations, and spiritual risk incident to riches. But God would have us take a different view, for although the concept of money did not originate with God, yet it is the currency by which bills are paid and God’s cause is sustained on the earth. 

Indeed, many of our churches are currently big on faith, but are hurting for cash, because the bottom line is that Home Depot doesn’t take faith as a form of payment, neither does the electrical, and water bills get paid by trust. Therefore, God expects of His people, well structured business enterprises, where warranted, through which the glory, the character, and principles of God, would be made manifest to the unbelieving world, for God is greatly honored by the success of His people.

However, it is true that wealth, in some Christian circles has become stigmatized because of the way in which it is acquired. When riches are multiplied through the teaching of false doctrines, to please itching ears, then God is greatly dishonored. But if Christians run well-structured successful businesses, according to Biblical principles, then God is not only glorified, but His kingdom is thereby built up. Let’s read:

Psalms 1:1 Blessed is the man that walketh not in the counsel of the ungodly, nor standeth in the way of sinners, nor sitteth in the seat of the scornful. 
2 But his delight is in the law of the Lord; and in his law doth he meditate day and night. 
3 And he shall be like a tree planted by the rivers of water, that bringeth forth his fruit in his season; his leaf also shall not wither; and whatsoever he doeth shall prosper.

Romans 12:9 Abhor that which is evil; cleave to that which is good. 
11 Not slothful in business; fervent in spirit; serving the Lord;

Deuteronomy 8:11 Beware that thou forget not the Lord thy God, in not keeping his commandments, and his judgments, and his statutes, which I command thee this day: 
12 Lest when thou hast eaten and art full, and hast built goodly houses, and dwelt therein; 
13 And when thy herds and thy flocks multiply, and thy silver and thy gold is multiplied, and all that thou hast is multiplied; 
14 Then thine heart be lifted up, and thou forget the Lord thy God. 
17 And thou say in thine heart, My power and the might of mine hand hath gotten me this wealth. 
18 But thou shalt remember the Lord thy God: for it is he that giveth thee power to get wealth, that he may establish his covenant which he sware unto thy fathers, as it is this day.

[Christ’s Object Lessons. pp 349>350] Religion and business are not two separate things; they are one. Bible religion is to be interwoven with all we do or say. Divine and human agencies are to combine in temporal as well as in spiritual achievements. They are to be united in all human pursuits in mechanical and agricultural labors, in mercantile, and scientific enterprises. There must be cooperation in everything embraced in Christian activity.

Furthermore, the Bible is full of business men, from Joseph to Solomon, from Jacob to Job, from Peter, James and John, to Lydia amongst others, all were able to run their business whilst being believers in God, and God’s kingdom was ultimately built up by their efforts and support. Thus, the old stereotypes pertaining to our views on mammon must indeed be revisited, lest we find ourselves coming up short as far as God’s ideals for us go.

This leads us to a case study on what is described as the unfaithful steward, a person who was given one talent by God, and who hid it in the ground for safe keeping, and who preserved it with no loss to the original Giver. But in the day of final accounts, he was cast out of the kingdom, for not improving on the opportunities, and blessings granted him.

The blessings, and talents God gives us are not for safe-keeping merely, but they are for multiplication purposes, that the Giver and humanity may be thus benefitted. In other words, the gift of music to one Christian should not be restricted to playing for the church services only. He or she should act upon the principle of multiplication, by producing songs, and teaching others, and eventually owning their own label, and production company with his/ her own studio. All this and more is possible according to the will of God, through prayer. Let’s read:

Matthew 25: 14 For the kingdom of heaven is as a man travelling into a far country, who called his own servants, and delivered unto them his goods.

15 And unto one he gave five talents, to another two, and to another one; to every man according to his several ability; and straightway took his journey. 
16 Then he that had received the five talents went and traded with the same, and made them other five talents. 
17 And likewise he that had received two, he also gained other two. 
18 But he that had received one went and digged in the earth, and hid his lord's money. 
19 After a long time the lord of those servants cometh, and reckoneth with them. 
20 And so he that had received five talents came and brought other five talents, saying, Lord, thou deliveredst unto me five talents: behold, I have gained beside them five talents more. 
21 His lord said unto him, Well done, thou good and faithful servant: thou hast been faithful over a few things, I will make thee ruler over many things: enter thou into the joy of thy lord.
22 He also that had received two talents came and said, Lord, thou deliveredst unto me two talents: behold, I have gained two other talents beside them. 
23 His lord said unto him, Well done, good and faithful servant; thou hast been faithful over a few things, I will make thee ruler over many things: enter thou into the joy of thy lord. 

Here we clearly see that God distributed His gifts according to the several abilities of each steward, for he who could successfully manage five million, was given five million. He who could handle two million was given the same, and he who had ability to mange one, was given one. But the purpose was one and the same for all three stewards, because a substantial return on His investments was expected by God. But then we come to the person who was given one million.

As we read his account, we will observe a multitude of excuses surfacing, where he would blame any, and everyone but himself for his signal failures. He begins his complaints against God, then he suggests that too much was expected of him, and last, but not least he chalks it all up to fear of the unknown, a risk he was not willing to take. Let’s read:

Matthew 25:24 Then he which had received the one talent came and said, Lord, I knew thee that thou art an hard man, reaping where thou hast not sown, and gathering where thou hast not strawed. 
25 And I was afraid, and went and hid thy talent in the earth: lo, there thou hast that is thine.

Like the servant with the one talent, many of us are “Afraid”, and fear may cause us to become indolent, or protracted in our outlook on life. Some are afraid of the Donald, and what he may do next. Others are afraid of the Sunday law, and still others are afraid of the city or the country, as the case might be. The time of trouble also scares some into not stepping out in faith, when God has opened up many golden opportunities at our doorsteps.

The fear of any, and every type of risk discloses the profound lack of faith, as evidenced in the steward who was afraid, for God has given us the essential element of faith, by which most hurdles, challenges, and reasonable risks can be mitigated. In fact, when we consider the matter carefully, living on this earth will inevitably involve some level of risk. Indeed, if a person was to become a true Christian, there will be some measure of risk, for there are those who have lost their jobs because of the Sabbath. 

The same would’ve been true of the three stewards in the parable, for they may have invested in some rental properties in the Sunshine state of Florida, but the risk of hurricanes would be incurred. Then again, they may have opted to multiply their talents in the Midwest, but there, the threat of tornadoes would be an ongoing concern.

So as a last resort, they may have chosen the high-tech capital of silicon-valley, where they may have invested in one of the great tech companies, but lo and behold, the San Andreas fault would obviously pose a constant risk of devastating earthquakes. In addition to all these potential threats, there also was the risk of Jesus second coming, for it is written no man knows the day nor the hour. Thus, fear gave rise to indolence, causing the unprofitable servant to not realize his God-given potential.

Thus, if we were to plan, attempt, invest, and if we were to approach new horizons from a perspective of fear, nothing worthwhile will be accomplished. In fact, the book of Revelation reveals to us that many good people, and many law-abiding citizens with a good credit score, will be lost, all because of fear. It is the first group of individuals on the list of losers. Let’s read:

Revelation 21:7 He that overcometh shall inherit all things; and I will be his God, and he shall be my son. 
8 But the fearful, and unbelieving, and the abominable, and murderers, and whoremongers, and sorcerers, and idolaters, and all liars, shall have their part in the second death.

Matthew 25:28 Take therefore the talent from him and give it unto him which hath ten talents. 
29 For unto everyone that hath shall be given, and he shall have abundance: but from him that hath not shall be taken away even that which he hath. 
30 And cast ye the unprofitable servant into outer darkness: there shall be weeping and gnashing of teeth.

Thus, with the weight of responsibility resting upon our shoulders to put the talents, blessings, financial resources, and opportunities God has lent us, to the best use, let us study some of the core fundamental principles given in the scripture, which would make your business a “Successful Christian Business”.

[1] God’s kingdom must come first:
Whenever a profit is made, and whenever The Lord sees fit to bless us with increase, the tithe, as well as a commensurate offering should be set aside first before any other temporal consideration. It doesn’t matter how important or how pressing the issue is, having God in the number one spot on our list of priorities is a non-negotiable must. 

As far as the offering goes, a set percentage is much preferable than random spontaneous figures based on momentary, emotional impulse. This method will guard against those temptations to circumstantial variance, by which we may subtract from our returns when business isn’t booming. Any steward who is faithful and consistent with a hundred dollars, will most likely be faithful and consistent when millions come.

In fact, circumstantial evidence has proven that in too many cases, it is not safe for God to bless those whom He cannot trust. The unprofitable servant to whom was given the one talent, made at least three excuses, so if God blessed him with five million, he would be sure to give at least five million excuses. A Christian business that is faithful in small things will be faithful, and successful when it strikes gold. Let’s read:

Luke 16:10 He that is faithful in that which is least is faithful also in much: and he that is unjust in the least is unjust also in much.

[2] Order and Organization:
Christian businesses should be characterized by the principles of order and proper organization, for this is a characteristic of the God whom we serve. When the Bible tells us that the heavens declare the glory of God, it means that His character traits can often be observed by studying the heavens. Suns, moons, stars and planets all circle the throne of deity in an orderly fashion, and the sun always rises in the east and sets in the west.

Thus, a Christian business that lacks organization, and order isn’t representing God correctly. When papers are left lying around the office in heaps with important notes scrabbled on them, and when tools cannot be found, and when folks continually keep forgetting where such and such item was placed, it is a sign that orderliness is lacking, and needs to be addressed. Let’s read:

1st Corinthians 14:33 For God is not the author of confusion, but of peace, as in all churches of the saints.
40 Let all things be done decently and in order.

Isaiah 40:26 Lift up your eyes on high, and behold who hath created these things, that bringeth out their host by number: he calleth them all by names by the greatness of his might, for that he is strong in power; not one faileth.

Proverbs 24:30 I went by the field of the slothful, and by the vineyard of the man void of understanding;
31 And, lo, it was all grown over with thorns, and nettles had covered the face thereof, and the stone wall thereof was broken down. 
32 Then I saw, and considered it well: I looked upon it, and received instruction. 
33 Yet a little sleep, a little slumber, a little folding of the hands to sleep: 
34 So shall thy poverty come as one that travelleth; and thy want as an armed man.

John 20:6 Then cometh Simon Peter following him, and went into the sepulchre, and seeth the linen clothes lie,
7 And the napkin, that was about his head, not lying with the linen clothes, but wrapped together in a place by itself.

These items were never ever going to be used by Christ again, neither in this world, nor in the world to come. So why does He take the time to fold them so neatly? Why doesn’t He just leave them in a heap on the floor? What does a Christian business to with items that are no longer needed? Should the same care be manifested in handling garbage, as in the management of it’s most prized possessions? The answers are given in the scriptures. Let’s read:

Luke 9:12 And when the day began to wear away, then came the twelve, and said unto him, Send the multitude away, that they may go into the towns and country round about, and lodge, and get victuals: for we are here in a desert place. 
13 But he said unto them, Give ye them to eat. 
14 And he said to his disciples, Make them sit down by fifties in a company. 
15 And they did so and made them all sit down. 
16 Then he took the five loaves and the two fishes, and looking up to heaven, he blessed them, and brake, and gave to the disciples to set before the multitude.

When we compare Christ’s example to black Friday, where there is so often, a stampede to get into the store first, and where on many occasions, fist fights have broken out, and some lives lost, as a mad rush is made for the doors, we would see a very distinct contrast in the way Christ conducts His business. In addition, He gave us important lessons on recycling, and waste management. Let’s read:

John 6:12 When they were filled, he said unto his disciples, Gather up the fragments that remain, that nothing be lost.
13 Therefore they gathered them together, and filled twelve baskets with the fragments of the five barley loaves, which remained over and above unto them that had eaten.

[3] Accountability:
Accountability is one of the areas which need to be urgently addressed by Christian businesses, for too often the inflows are not properly reconciled with the outflows, and as a result, unnecessary deficits and losses are incurred, driving many into the snare of revolving debt. In addition, one of the common snares satan lays for the feet of the unwary, is that of not making provision to take a loss.

The reason why so many financial institutions, and businesses went bankrupt during the last recession is that ample provision was not made to suffer loss, without going under. Improper leveraging, constant dependence on credit markets, and a lack of rainy day funds, drove some to extinction, and many persons, and families literally went six feet under. 

Therefore, any Christian business that lacks the principle of accountability, and does not make any allowance for losses will soon be out of business! Being accountable and making proper provision for losses are scriptural principles which must then be incorporated into one’s business planning, for there are many who do not know how to manage loss. Let’s read: 

Proverbs 27:23 Be thou diligent to know the state of thy flocks and look well to thy herds. 
24 For riches are not for ever: and doth the crown endure to every generation?

Genesis 31:38 This twenty years have I been with thee; thy ewes and thy she goats have not cast their young.
39 That which was torn of beasts I brought not unto thee; I bare the loss of it; of my hand didst thou require it, whether stolen by day, or stolen by night. 

[4] Replenishing:
The principle of restoring that which is used was one of the first instructions given to man, and in the running of a Christian business, this principle must be seen. Revolving debt, thirty-day payment plans, and other forms of borrowing, are methods which have been introduced, and adopted by many in the Christian arena. However, the gold standard given us by God is to owe no man anything, as far as it’s possible. 

If a Christian business, or a believing person seems to be continually saddled with debt, for many years, it’s because some core principles in the Bible are not being implemented, in most cases. And thus, if we are not able to successfully manage mammon, then Christ asks the startling question, who in their right mind will entrust us with eternal riches. Let’s read:

Genesis 1:28 And God blessed them, and God said unto them, Be fruitful, and multiply, and replenish the earth, and subdue it: and have dominion over the fish of the sea, and over the fowl of the air, and over every living thing that moveth upon the earth.

Luke 16:8 The children of this world are in their generation wiser than the children of light. 
9 And I say unto you, Make to yourselves friends of the mammon of unrighteousness; that, when ye fail, they may receive you into everlasting habitations. 
11 If therefore ye have not been faithful in the unrighteous mammon, who will commit to your trust the true riches? 
12 And if ye have not been faithful in that which is another man's, who shall give you that which is your own?

Romans 13:7 Render therefore to all their dues: tribute to whom tribute is due; custom to whom custom. 
8 Owe no man anything, for he that loveth another hath fulfilled the law.

[Colporteur ministry pp 92] Gospel principles are not obeyed by those who claim to be following Christ. Much haphazard work has been presented before me. The tract and missionary societies [Book and Bible Houses] have been deeply involved in debt through the failure of canvassers to meet their indebtedness. Canvassers have felt that they were ill-treated if required to pay promptly for the books received from the publishing houses. Yet to require prompt remittal is the only way to carry on business.

[5] Be very careful of family and friends when doing business:
This last issue must be addressed for even though it is the will of God that brethren and family members should interact in business concerns, yet due care should be taken when involving family and friends in business enterprises. James and John, Peter and Andrew were all family and friends, and there able to run their fishing businesses without becoming “Frenemies”.

That’s all well and good, and the same example may be duplicated in our day. However, because God is very practical in His instructions to us, He bids us do some research, some observation, some inquiry and much prayer before we co-invest with brethren and family members. Following this particular directive may save us a whole lot of heartache, and remorse in years to come.

In closing, faithfulness is judged not only in spiritual matters, but also in the way we should manage unrighteous mammon, meaning that the attitudes, characteristics, dispositions or habits we develop in managing temporal, transient issues, will also run as common threads throughout our entire Christian experience. Thus, we close with a quote from the pen of inspiration, treating upon the very same subject matter. Let’s read:

[C.O.L. pp 344] It is the duty of every Christian to acquire habits of order, thoroughness, and dispatch. Through lack of determination to take themselves in hand and reform, persons can become stereotyped in a wrong course of action; or by cultivating their powers they may acquire ability to do the very best of service. Then they will find themselves in demand anywhere and everywhere. They will be appreciated for all that they are worth.

                                                                   God bless!
 

Fear God! 01/20/2018 Sabbath Afternoon.

Throughout this year, we will be studying various segments of the three angel’s messages given to us in Revelation, with the intention of understanding the meaning, the implementation, and ultimately, the consequences of us accepting, or rejecting the everlasting gospel given to our generation.

Thus, in harmony with this specific purpose, it will be necessary for us to be deliberate, and careful, so as not to overlook any detail God intended for us to see. Therefore, we will begin by studying the first two words spoken in these messages, “Fear God”. Let’s read:

Revelation 14:6 And I saw another angel fly in the midst of heaven, having the everlasting gospel to preach unto them that dwell on the earth, and to every nation, and kindred, and tongue, and people, 7 Saying with a loud voice, Fear God.

To fear God, has several different connotations, and meanings, but it does not mean to be afraid of Him. Instead, it carries those overtones such as supreme reverence, worship, godly wisdom, and hating evil, amongst others. Let’s read: 

Psalms 111:10 The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom: a good understanding have all they that do his commandments.

Proverbs 8:13 The fear of the Lord is to hate evil: pride, and arrogancy, and the evil way, and the froward mouth, do I hate. 

Psalms 89:7 God is greatly to be feared in the assembly of the saints, and to be had in reverence of all them that are about him.

To “Fear God” also includes our admiration of His perfect character, and wisdom. It involves correctly valuing all human life, respect for the elderly, and parents, and all those to whom God has delegated authority, in the secular and the religious realms; the hating of covetousness, and the keeping of God’s commandments.

It also includes the deliberate, personal decision to esteem God’s laws, His statutes, and instructions as being the absolute, and vastly superior standard of righteousness, even when they may be at odds with our finite understanding, and concepts of morality.  In other words, whatever we may think or say must be subservient to whatsoever God declares to be right, from food to business to worship to marriage. All this is involved in fearing God.

The fear of God also includes avoiding favoritism, or biased respect of certain persons based upon one’s privilege, rank, financial holdings or celebrity status. It debunks all distinctions of caste, and views every individual as belonging to God, both by creation and redemption. The fear of God leads us to understand that the ground around Mt. Calvary is a level playing field, where any and everyone from every creed and race, can find an equal place, and all are more than welcome to partake of God’s grace.

It also leads us to be careful about making vows to God or man, it also causes us to consider carefully, before taking offices in church, much more so if we are prone to make excuses, when things do not go the way we expected. The fear of God also enters into our business transactions, instructing us against such practices as haggling, undercutting each other in bids for contracts, hostile takeovers, bribery, and fraud, teaching us to execute sound judgment, and mercy, and equity in our interactions with persons.

The fear of God also affects the way we would carry ourselves in His presence, the eating, and drinking during worship services, the walking, or running up, and down in the sanctuary during worship, or even when there’s nothing taking place at church. It also addresses the use of cell-phones and other personal gadgets in God’s presence, whilst we are petitioning Him. In general, it translates into treating God with infinitely greater respect than we would do, in the presence of any earthly ruler. 

Indeed, whatsoever we would not dare to do in any earthly ruler’s presence, we should never, ever do in God’s presence. More than anything else the fear of God would lead us to acknowledge, and honor Him as The Creator of the heavens, and the earth. All of these, and more, are included in those first, two cryptic words, “Fear God”. Thus, because the instruction to fear God is holistic in nature, we must address several branches of the phrase. Let’s read:

[1] Fear God --- In His capacity as Creator.
Revelation 4:10 The four and twenty elders fall down before him that sat on the throne, and worship him that liveth for ever and ever, and cast their crowns before the throne, saying, 
11 Thou art worthy, O Lord, to receive glory and honor and power: for thou hast created all things, and for thy pleasure they are and were created.

Colossians 1:16 For by him were all things created, that are in heaven, and that are in earth, visible and invisible, whether they be thrones, or dominions, or principalities, or powers: all things were created by him, and for him: 
17 And he is before all things, and by him all things consist.

The popular notion that we are accountable only to ourselves, and that there is no absolute truth, are two offshoots of the “big bang” theory. Hence, the reason why the first angel’s message addresses the Creatorship of God, for without first acknowledging this fact, all of the other down-stream connotations will become irrelevant, in the minds of those who are thus disposed. 

Much of the world’s current problems today, from our educational systems, to our social, political and religious systems, are the result of individuals, and nations not recognizing this first fact, that we are created.

[2] “Fearing God” addresses the issue of walking up and down in church, and talking verbally or digitally on casual topics while church service is in progress. Speaking in tongues, excessive noises, and church-goers falling down upon the ground has become a phenomenon that’s quite acceptable in our day; but if we were to read carefully, we will soon discover that any such worship is antithetical to fearing God. Let’s read:

Ecclesiastes 5:1 Keep thy foot when thou goest to the house of God, and be more, ready to hear, than to give the sacrifice of fools: for they consider not that they do evil. 

Psalms 89:7 God is greatly to be feared in the assembly of the saints, and to be had in reverence of all them that are about him.

Habakkuk 2: 20 But the Lord is in his holy temple: let all the earth keep silence before him.

[3] Fear God, in making rash vows without careful thought, and making spontaneous financial pledges when stirring appeals are made. When we go home, and calmly consider what we committed to in the heat of the moment, impulsiveness is not an excuse for any negligence, or delay on our part, in fulfilling that which we committed to do, on the spur of the moment. 
In other words, rash vows are just as valid in God’s sight as are those which may be carefully thought out. If two persons fall in love at first sight, and in the heat of the moment they get married hastily, without careful thought and due consideration, the marriage is considered just as binding in the sight of God, as other folks who prayerfully considered the matter before tying the knot. Let’s read:

Ecclesiastes 5:2 Be not rash with thy mouth, and let not thine heart be hasty to utter anything before God: for God is in heaven, and thou upon earth: therefore, let thy words be few.
4 When thou vowest a vow unto God, defer not to pay it; for he hath no pleasure in fools: pay that which thou hast vowed. 
5 Better is it that thou shouldest not vow, than that thou shouldest vow and not pay. 
6 Suffer not thy mouth to cause thy flesh to sin; neither say thou before the angel, that it was an error: wherefore should God be angry at thy voice, and destroy the work of thine hands? 
7 For in the multitude of dreams and many words there are also divers vanities: but fear thou God.

[A.A pp 74>78] When the heart is stirred by the influence of the Holy Spirit, and a vow is made to give a certain amount, the one who vows has no longer any right to the consecrated portion. When divine light is shining into the heart with unusual clearness and power, habitual selfishness relaxes its grasp and there is a disposition to give to the cause of God. 

But none need think that they will be allowed to fulfill the promises then made, without a protest on the part of Satan. He is not pleased to see the Redeemer's kingdom on earth built up. He suggests that the pledge made was too much, that it may cripple them in their efforts to acquire property or gratify the desires of their families.

[4] Fear God…. In business transactions. As it stands currently, many business transactions conducted in the world and in the church, are void of the fear of God. The notion that we will not be undersold, that we will beat any advertised price, may sound good to the consumer, and we may actually benefit from such advertisements. But at their core, is another principle in operation, other than “Fear God”.

The practice of submitting unreasonably low bids on a contract, so as to procure a job does not proceed from the fear of God. The Christian who fears God will price his/her bids in harmony with the standard of the industry, once such standards are within the bounds of reason, justice, and equity. Then he/she will trust God to provide in due season. But for any Christian to become the sport of circumstances, just to make a buck, is nowhere encouraged in the Bible. Let’s read:

Luke 10:7 The laborer is worthy of his hire. 

Leviticus 19:35 Ye shall do no unrighteousness in judgment, in mete-yard, in weight, or in measure. 
36 Just balances, just weights, a just ephah, and a just hin, shall ye have: I am the Lord your God.

[Test vol. 7 pp 163] In the effort to secure outside patronage in order to relieve the publishing houses from financial embarrassment, prices have been set so low that the work brings no profit. Those who flatter themselves that there is a gain have not kept strict account of every outgo. Do not cut down prices in order to secure a job. Take only such work as will give a fair profit.

At the same time there should be in our business deal no shadow of selfishness or overreaching. Let no one take advantage of any man's ignorance or necessity by charging exorbitant prices for work done or for goods sold.  

That word “Exorbitant” is relative to the standard of the industry, and is never to be understood as one’s personal discretion. When David offered Ornan to purchase his threshing floor, he was offered it at no price, but David, who feared God, refused. Instead he paid the full price that was standard at that time. A three-bedroom house, with 2500 square feet, on fifth Ave New York city, will not cost the same as a similar home with the same square footage in rural Georgia. 

Thus, the Christian is nowhere commanded to use personal discretion in pricing, as far as any business transaction goes. Discretion is optional, relative to the standard of the industry, and like Ornan, he may choose to give his house to the salvation army for free. That’s all well and good but he is nowhere commanded to do so, because that will be his own personal choice. Let’s read: 

1st Chronicles 21:21 And as David came, Ornan went out of the threshing-floor, and bowed himself to David with his face to the ground. 
22 Then David said to Ornan, Grant me the place of this threshing-floor, that I may build an altar therein unto the Lord: thou shalt grant it me for the full price: that the plague may be stayed from the people. 
23 And Ornan said unto David, Take it to thee, and lo, I give thee the oxen also for burnt offerings, and the threshing instruments for wood, and the wheat for the meat offering; I give it all. 
24 And king David said to Ornan, Nay; but I will verily buy it for the full price: for I will not take that which is thine for the Lord, nor offer burnt offerings without cost. 
25 So David gave to Ornan for the place six hundred shekels of gold by weight. 

[5] Fear God… In Marriage. In recent years marriage has come under attack by secular forces, and as it stands currently it incorporates almost any variation folks may come up with. Marriage is considered as an umbrella to now cover the most deviant concept or interpretation of what God originally intended.

Polygamy, co-habiting, shacking up, same-sex unions, bestiality, and having additional misters and mistresses, are all options considered to be viable in the sight of millions, as it pertains to marriage. But to fear God in marriage is to esteem it as the sacred institution it was meant to be, as the foundation of society, and intended for the stability communities, as well as nations.

But alas! We have fallen very low, for the sacred institution has been dragged in the dust, and holds little weight in the minds of many, as far as one’s commitment goes. In places high and low, and even within our own borders, the fear of God is strangely absent in many instances, as it pertains to marriage, and thus, for the record, it is necessary to state very implicitly, what God’s standard, and ideal is, on the matter. Let’s read:

Genesis 2:18 And the Lord God said, It is not good that the man should be alone; I will make him an help meet for him.
21 And the Lord God caused a deep sleep to fall upon Adam, and he slept: and he took one of his ribs, and closed up the flesh instead thereof; 
22 And the rib, which the Lord God had taken from man, made he a woman, and brought her unto the man. 
23 And Adam said, This is now bone of my bones, and flesh of my flesh: she shall be called Woman, because she was taken out of Man. 
24 Therefore shall a man leave his father and his mother, and shall cleave unto his wife: and they shall be one flesh.

Matthew 19:3 The Pharisees also came unto him, tempting him, and saying unto him, Is it lawful for a man to put away his wife for every cause? 
4 And he answered and said unto them, Have ye not read, that he which made them at the beginning made them male and female, 
5 And said, For this cause shall a man leave father and mother, and shall cleave to his wife: and they twain shall be one flesh? 
6 Wherefore they are no more twain, but one flesh. What therefore God hath joined together, let not man put asunder.

God also gave us a vivid revelation of how He views the sin of adultery. When Sarah was inadvertently taken by the Egyptian king, and again by Abimelech, God showed His great displeasure in sending a very grievous plague upon those households, signaling to them and ourselves in the 21st century that adultery and hush-money, flirting, and swingers in kings and in princes will not be tolerated, but instead, those who participate in such nocturnal activities, will be held accountable. Let’s read:

Genesis 20:1 And Abraham journeyed from thence toward the south country, and dwelled between Kadesh and Shur, and sojourned in Gerar. 
2 And Abraham said of Sarah his wife, She is my sister: and Abimelech king of Gerar sent, and took Sarah. 
3 But God came to Abimelech in a dream by night, and said to him, Behold, thou art but a dead man, for the woman which thou hast taken; for she is a man's wife. 
4 But Abimelech said, Lord, wilt thou slay also a righteous nation? 
5 Said he not unto me, She is my sister? and she, even she herself said, He is my brother: in the integrity of my heart and innocency of my hands have I done this. 
6 And God said unto him in a dream, Yea, I know
that thou didst this in the integrity of thy heart; for I also withheld thee from sinning against me.
7 Now therefore restore the man his wife, and if thou restore her not, know thou that thou shalt surely die, thou, and all that are thine. 
8 Therefore Abimelech rose early in the morning, and called all his servants, and told all these things in their ears: and the men were sore afraid.

[6] Last, but not least is “Fear God”….. In respect of persons. Let’s set the record straight by observing what the scriptures have to say:  
Acts 8:34 Then Peter opened his mouth, and said, Of a truth I perceive that God is no respecter of persons.

On this point, we are lost in a maze of ideologies, political maneuvering, and social engineering, to the point where the lines between truth and error on this point, have become quite blurred. All ethnic cleansing, caste systems, racial profiling, and all preferential treatment given only to those in the upper echelons of society, or to the wealthy are variations of “Respect of persons”.

On this point God warns us, as He did with the Jews, not to forget where we came from, so as not to misunderstand where we are going. Immigrants in our day are the equivalent of “strangers”, and when they are treated inhumanely, and when families are torn apart as a result of respect of persons, then we will open the door for God’s retributive judgment to fall upon us. 

All individuals have been bought with the precious blood of Jesus Christ, thus, in lieu of the infinite price paid for our redemption, God expects us to treat each other with human dignity, just as Christ did when He walked upon the earth. With this sole purpose in mind, let’s read our final few passages.

Deuteronomy 1:17 Ye shall not respect persons in judgment; but ye shall hear the small as well as the great; ye shall not be afraid of the face of man; for the judgment is God's.

Deuteronomy 16:18 Judges and officers shalt thou make thee in all thy gates, and they shall judge the people with just judgment. 
19 Thou shalt not wrest judgment; thou shalt not respect persons, neither take a gift: for a gift doth blind the eyes of the wise, and pervert the words of the righteous.

2nd Chronicles 19:4 And Jehoshaphat dwelt at Jerusalem.
5 And he set judges in the land throughout all the fenced cities of Judah, city by city. 
6 And said to the judges, Take heed what ye do: for ye judge not for man, but for the Lord. 
7 Wherefore now let the fear of the Lord be upon
you; take heed and do it: for there is no iniquity with the Lord our God, nor respect of persons, nor taking of gifts.

Exodus 22:21 Thou shalt neither vex a stranger, nor oppress him: for ye were strangers in the land of Egypt. 
22 Ye shall not afflict any widow, or fatherless child. 
23 If thou afflict them in any wise, and they cry at all unto me, I will surely hear their cry; 
24 And my wrath shall wax hot, and I will kill you with the sword; and your wives shall be widows, and your children fatherless.

Revelation 14:6 And I saw another angel fly in the midst of heaven, having the everlasting gospel to preach unto them that dwell on the earth, and to every nation, and kindred, and tongue, and people, 
7 Saying with a loud voice, “FEAR GOD”.

                                                                         God Bless! 
 

The Food Fight. Sabbath Afternoon. 01/13/2018

There is a food fight currently raging across the land which pits the so-called wisdom of man, against the wisdom of God, and which seems for the most part, to apparently prove that God was wrong when He gave us certain instructions, and laws pertaining to diets and foods. In many instances, the Bible seems to be at odds with scientific research, and because of this, many people have become very confused as to the right course of action to pursue, in the quest for health, and longevity.

The health message, which is described as the right arm of the third angels’ messages of Revelation 14 was given to us as a precious legacy, to be given to the world. But we are called to not only deliver the message, but to be the message. In our day God has given His remnant people diamonds, in the form of the health message, and this means that in our own persons, the wisdom of God in the health message should be exemplified, and materialized literally.

In other words, God has called us to debunk, in our own persons, many of the flawed theories, research and studies that now abound, pertaining to diet and foods, and instructions for healthful living. Often, by so-called conclusive scientific evidence, persons are ensnared into ingesting harmful substances, foods, and liquids, with the inevitable, adverse side effects. The so-called studies often seem to show that there are benefits to doing the direct opposite to what is written in the scriptures. 

But we should always bear in mind that the many studies done on thousands of individuals, are more likely to involve those who are not following God’s instructions, for if research was to be done on the obedient, entirely different results would be made apparent, in most cases. 
And therefore, the research and its results can be both true, and seriously flawed at the same time. For this reason, we will begin by demonstrating the results of a few “Studies” which to the casual reader may seem to be conclusive. In one recent interview on CNN, Dr. Sanjay Gupta advocated for drinking one or two glasses of wine per day, for as he put it, there are very real benefits to be derived by doing so.

His conclusion is also backed up by studies done by Harvard, which seem to show that several glasses of wine per week, deliver antioxidants, and nutrients that may otherwise be missing from a person’s diet. Thus, as we investigate the various studies and their apparent results, we will begin with what the Bible teaches on the same point, and then we’ll observe a pattern of contradictory evidence on the part of the “researchers”. 

[1] The Biblical instruction on the use of wine:
Proverbs 20:1 Wine is a mocker, strong drink is raging: and whosoever is deceived thereby is not wise.

Proverbs 23:29 Who hath woe? who hath sorrow? who hath contentions? who hath babbling? who hath wounds without cause? who hath redness of eyes? 
30 They that tarry long at the wine; they that go to seek mixed wine. 
31 Look not thou upon the wine when it is red, when it giveth his color in the cup, when it moveth itself aright. 
32 At the last it biteth like a serpent, and stingeth like an adder. 

Research on the benefits of red wine: [Harvard Nutrition Source] 
The comparatively low rate of heart disease in France despite a diet that includes plenty of butter and cheese has come to be known as the French paradox. Some experts have suggested that red wine makes the difference, something the wine industry has heavily, and heartily endorsed. 

Some studies have suggested that red wine—particularly when drunk with a meal—offers more cardiovascular benefits than beer or spirits. These range from international comparisons showing a lower prevalence of coronary heart disease in wine-drinking countries.

Red wine may contain various substances, in addition to alcohol that could prevent blood clots, relax blood vessel walls, and prevent the oxidation of low-density lipoprotein (LDL, “bad” cholesterol), a key early step in the formation of cholesterol-filled plaque. 

[2] The Biblical instruction on oysters, crabs, and
mollusks:
Leviticus 11:9 These shall ye eat of all that are in the waters: whatsoever hath fins and scales in the waters, in the seas, and in the rivers, them shall ye eat. 
10 And all that have not fins and scales in the seas, and in the rivers, of all that move in the waters, and of any living thing which is in the waters, they shall be an abomination unto you: 
11 They shall be even an abomination unto you; ye shall not eat of their flesh, but ye shall have their carcases in abomination. 
12 Whatsoever hath no fins nor scales in the waters, that shall be an abomination unto you.

Research done on the benefits of eating oysters, crabs, and other shellfish:
Immune Boosting: Mollusks pack a solid dose of both vitamin E and C. They also contain various other minerals that help our immune system. The anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant properties of oysters also protect against free radicals, which are released during cellular metabolism.

Heart Health: 
Oysters positively influence heart health. They reduce the plaque that accumulates on arteries by inhibiting it from binding to the artery walls and blood vessels. Moreover, the high magnesium and potassium content in oysters helps lower blood pressure and relaxes the blood vessels.

Good for Eyes:
Oysters top the list of natural sources of zinc, the mineral that ensures that the eye’s pigment is adequately produced in the retina.
Improves Brain Function: 
Oysters are a rich source of B12, omega-3 fatty acids, zinc and iron, benefiting brain function.

Mood Boosting:
Due to the high levels of zinc found in these sea dwellers, they are known to stabilize mood. Zinc is considered an essential mineral because it is not stored by the body and needs to be consumed through diet. Another study in the European Journal of Clinical Nutrition found that adequate zinc intake was effective at reducing anger and depression in young women.

Good for the Skin:
The powerful mineral zinc plays a big role in skin repair by helping create and boost collagen. Collagen is crucial for the structural support in skin and reduces sagging. It also helps maintain stronger nails, and keeps scalp and hair healthy.

Healthy vascular system and blood vessels:
A serving of oysters contains 16-18% of the daily recommended amount of vitamin C. They are also high in omega–3 fatty acids, potassium, and magnesium which are known to reduce the risk of heart attack, stroke, and also effective at lowering blood pressure.

Energy Boosting:
Oysters contain a good amount of B12 vitamins, which boost energy and turn the food we eat into energy. Recent studies suggest anywhere from 15-40% of Americans don’t have adequate levels of B12 for optimal health. Oysters also contain iron, which helps the body transport oxygen to individual cells giving an energy boost.

Bone Health:
The Presence of selenium, copper, iron, zinc, phosphorus and calcium found in these mollusks lead to stronger bone health and density. According to an article in The Independent, French biologists have been studying the way oysters produce nacre (mother-of-pearl), and believe the process could be replicated to provide cures and preventative treatments for osteoporosis, arthritis, and certain skin complaints.

[3] The Biblical instruction on animal fat:
Leviticus 7:22 And the Lord spake saying, 
23 Ye shall eat no manner of fat, of ox, or of sheep, or of goat. 
24 And the fat of the beast that dieth of itself, and the fat of that which is torn with beasts, may be used in any other use: but ye shall in no wise eat of it.

Leviticus 3:17 It shall be a perpetual statute for your generations throughout all your dwellings, that ye eat neither fat nor blood. 

Exodus 29:13 And thou shalt take all the fat that covereth the inwards, and the caul that is above the liver, and the two kidneys, and the fat that is upon them, and burn them upon the altar.

Waitress Mary Brasda posing with a "Quadruple Bypass Burger" at the Heart Attack Grill in Chandler, Arizona June 17, 2009.
 

Newsweek Magazine: BY CHRIS RIOTTA ON 4/19/17 AT 4:51 PM
SORRY, VEGETARIANS: ANIMAL FAT MAY ACTUALLY LOWER CHOLESTEROL, NEWLY DISCOVERED STUDY FINDS. 

Previously unreported findings come from the largest study of its kind to dispute the idea that polyunsaturated fat, typically found in vegetable products, is healthier in the long term than saturated fats, found in meats, creams and butter. The research found that replacing vegetable oils with saturated fats in fact lowered cholesterol levels in participants age 20 to 97 by an average of 14 percent.

And we are not finished yet, because studies and research, have not only muddied the water, as it pertains to diet and foods, but so-called research has also entered the arena of marriage, where the sacred institution ordained of God in Eden, is now being questioned and debunked by scientific study. In other words, cheating on one’s spouse has now been proven to be beneficial to one’s marriage, according to one study. Let’s read:

New Study Reveals . . . Cheating Makes Your Marriage Stronger. By MATT BETT
TURIN, Italy -- Thou shalt not commit adultery . . . unless you want a stronger marriage! According to a new study, husbands and wives who cheat on each other are more likely to stay together. Dr. Lucielle Ostertag from the Italian Institute of Social Sciences conducted the controversial research. 

"I started the analysis project to discover how damaging infidelity was to marriages," says Dr. Ostertag. "I was as surprised as everyone when the numbers proved that cheating on your spouse is actually good for your marriage." According to the scientific survey, the more extramarital flings a couple enjoys, the more likely they are to remain together and the happier they will be. "Some of the strongest unions I studied included spouses who each were involved in repeated extramarital affairs throughout the relationship," explains Dr. Ostertag. 

Now brethren, if God says something is bad for us, and our scientific research shows on the contrary, many benefits of doing the exact opposite to what God says, then, the logical conclusion will be that God must have been ill-informed in His instructions, and if so, then the wisdom of our scientific research must be superior to the wisdom of God, and if so, then man is more intelligent than His maker, thus, God and all His instructions and laws must therefore be subservient to what our own “findings” reveal.

This takes us into the core of our Bible study, “The Food Fight”, because it is obvious that the wisdom of God, and the wisdom of man have been pitted against each other. With the beginning of a new year, many resolutions are being made in regard to health, for people are beginning to understand that the choices we make can either prolong life, or shorten it. However, the way we go about making the necessary changes in our lifestyle and habits, should be based upon those Biblical instructions given to us, instead of the many quick-fixes that abound today. When the issues of food, exercise and rest are appropriately addressed, benefits will be seen, and felt almost immediately.

But in order for us to win the food fight, the issue must be tackled at its two main components, the spiritual, and the physical, for both are uniquely, and inseparably intertwined. In other words, the spiritual factors such as self-restraint, temperance, consistency, and faith in God, must then be coupled together with good food choices, a regular exercise program, and adequate rest to recuperate oneself. Let’s read:

[C.D pp 62>63] A close sympathy exists between the physical and the moral nature. The standard of virtue is elevated or degraded by the physical habits. Excessive eating of the best of food will produce a morbid condition of the moral feelings. And if the food is not the most healthful, the effects will be still more injurious. 

Any habit which does not promote healthful action in the human system, degrades the higher and nobler faculties. Wrong habits of eating and drinking lead to errors in thought and action. Indulgence of appetite strengthens the animal propensities, giving them the ascendancy over the mental and spiritual powers.

To those who are now looking for the soon coming of Christ, definitive decisions, and modes of thought would need to be adopted, if we are to be prepared to receive the “finishing touch of immortality”, if we were to live until Jesus comes. This means that all of the ground work, the eating habits, the lifestyle, the food choices, coupled together with obedience, and prayer, will have been incorporated and practiced in our daily lives.

Thus, in harmony with this ideal, we must revisit the parameters given for success.
[1] Consistency.
Exodus 15:26 If thou wilt diligently hearken to the voice of the Lord thy God, and wilt do that which is right in his sight, and wilt give ear to his commandments, and keep all his statutes, I will put none of these diseases upon thee, which I have brought upon the Egyptians: for I am the Lord that healeth thee.

Diligence is one of the spiritual factors which will directly impact our success in the food fight. There are those days when we will “Feel” to eat junk food, especially on those social or festive occasions, when impulse is prone to given preeminence over sound judgment and principle. Then there are those days when we wont fee to exercise, because it’s cold and raining outside, or because we’re tired.

Any Christian who allows feelings, and impulse to govern his/her decisions and choices, will lose the food fight, because stern discipline is needed if we are to achieve anything worthwhile. In fact, good wholesome food, exercise, and rest is worthless without the character trait of discipline, for if we wait until it feels good to do it, it will never be done consistently. Instead, we will begin our regimen in the heat of the moment, and then, a few months later we will run out of steam.

[2] Self- Denial:
Luke 9:23 And he said to them all, If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow me.
When my dad had diabetes, there were times when he longed for a piece of fruit cake, especially around Christmas, when everyone one else was enjoying ice cream, and other delicacies. He would look with longing eyes on the various pastries within reach, but stern discipline caused him to deny the gnawing cravings he then felt. In the food fight, there will be certain items we cannot eat, if we are to be victors.

Temperance:
1st Corinthians 9:25 And every man that striveth for the mastery is temperate in all things. Now they do it to obtain a corruptible crown; but we an incorruptible. 
26 I therefore so run, not as uncertainly; so fight I, not as one that beateth the air: 
27 But I keep under my body, and bring it into subjection: lest that by any means, when I have preached to others, I myself should be a castaway.

Eating intemperately of the best food, will have adverse effects on our system, and will cause us to lose the food fight. Too much salad is just as bad as too much water, and a temperate meat eater is far better than an intemperate vegan. Thus, our motto should be to use judiciously, only those foods that are wholesome, in a manner that wouldn’t burden our system with overloads. This leads us to our fourth and final component.

[4] Faith in God.
Hebrews 11:6 But without faith it is impossible to please him: for he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him.

This is the missing link in the food chain, by which the other three components are made to work both harmoniously, and consistently, to produce results that defy logic. Whenever genuine faith in God is exercised, when by faith we choose the wisdom of God over the so-called wisdom of man, whenever we trust and obey, relying on God’s power, promise and the original God-ordained diet, then it is that the researchers will be confounded in their findings, for they will discover that the wisdom of man is too often foolishness in the sight of God.

Let us then, as stewards of the messages given to the remnant, be faithful in implementing what The Lord has given us now for many years, for the time is soon coming when we must rely solely on a plain “Thus saith The Lord”. Let’s read:

When properly conducted, the health work is an entering wedge, making a way for other truths to reach the heart. When the third angel's message is received in its fullness, health reform will be given its place in the councils of the conference, in the work of the church, in the home, at the table, and in all the household arrangements. Then the right arm will serve and protect the body.

                                                                    God Bless!
 

A Christian Is Born. Sabbath Afternoon. 01/06/2018

In our day, professing oneself to be a Christian does not carry the weight, or the meaning that it used to, mainly because of the generic nature contemporary Christianity has morphed into. And even in our own Adventist circles, the designation has become quite blurred, because of the influx of erroneous theories, practices, and ideas borrowed from the mainstream Christian culture. Thus, for the purpose of this Bible study, the name “Christian” will refer to a converted follower of Jesus Christ, not merely a believer, or a follower, or one who professes such a persuasion. 

In other words, a Christian is one who has had the necessary procedure of conversion implemented by the Holy Ghost, and who continues to be molded, managed, guided, and changed by The Spirit. Thus, before we begin our Bible study, there are certain erroneous concepts which must be debunked, to clear the way for a Biblical meaning of who, a real Christian is. 

Many of us do not yet realize how badly we need Jesus. In many Christian households, where children are brought up in a religious surrounding, baptism is often seen as a necessary addition to the righteous things we had been doing all along. Thus, baptism is often viewed in some circles, as the icing on a cake that already existed. But being a Christian involves an entirely new cake with its own peculiar icing, and baked in the oven of God’s grace, by the One and only Master Chef, Jesus Christ.

The following erroneous concepts about Christianity must therefore be cleared up using the scriptures to guide our understanding, and to give us a balanced view of who we are, and what we may become, by the grace of God alone.
[1] Doing right things does not make any individual a Christian, neither does one become a Christian by making several good improvements on his/her old nature. Let’s read:

Matthew 19:16 And, behold, one came and said unto him, Good Master, what good thing shall I do, that I may have eternal life?

This young ruler was searching, not for a Savior, but for more right things to do. But he was becoming so frustrated with himself, that he realized that there must be something missing, for doing right things was not producing freedom from guilt, or the peace that passes all understanding. After doing a number of right things, he still felt an unexplainable void in his soul, which prompted him to reveal his “Lack”. Let’s read:

Matthew 19:17 And he said unto him, if thou wilt enter into life, keep the commandments. 
18 He saith unto him, Which? Jesus said, Thou shalt do no murder, Thou shalt not commit adultery, Thou shalt not steal, Thou shalt not bear false witness, 
19 Honor thy father and thy mother: and, Thou shalt love thy neighbor as thyself. 
20 The young man saith unto him, All these things have I kept from my youth up: what lack I yet?

[2] Being born into a Christian family, or a Seventh-day Adventist household, does not make a person a Christian, because conversion is not passed on from generation to generation via genetics. Conversion is not transferable, and therefore the procedure has to be done on each person who so desires. In other words, conversion is not about what you do, instead it’s about what happens to you. Let’s read:

Matthew 3:1 In those days came John the Baptist, preaching in the wilderness of Judaea,
2 And saying, Repent ye: for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.
9 And think not to say within yourselves, We have Abraham to our father: for I say unto you, that God is able of these stones to raise up children unto Abraham.

Romans 9:6 For they are not all Israel, which are of Israel: 
7 Neither, because they are the seed of Abraham, are they all children: but, In Isaac shall thy seed be called. 
8 That is, They which are the children of the flesh, these are not the children of God.

[3] Having good morals, and ethics does not make one a Christian. A good moral character, courtesy, and the willingness to earn one’s daily bread by hard labor is good, and is to be encouraged, but that too does not make an individual a Christian.

In commenting upon this very point, the servant of The Lord makes an important statement to all those who may be contemplating marriage with someone of a different persuasion, or who has all of the right stuff, with the above checks, and balances in place, but who has not yet submitted to the procedure of conversion. Let’s read:

[A.H. pp 63] The unbelieving may possess an excellent moral character, but the fact that he or she has not answered to the claims of God and has neglected so great salvation is sufficient reason why such a union should not be consummated.

[4] Being baptized by immersion does not make one a Christian. The question was once asked: “Why is there a seeming haste to baptize children, in some instances?” The answer was given: “Because as they grow older they may change their minds”. Thus, it seems as if it’s best to dunk them before they make an objective, well-informed choice! 

Now, no one is saying that children should not be allowed baptism; what is being referenced is the idea of hastening baptism before they come to the age of reason, where they can understand their dire need of God’s grace as little sinners. I was baptized at the age of twelve, and went to church for several years, trying to do right things, and assisting with teaching the teenage class, but I never knew that I wasn’t a Christian. Thus, it’s imperative for us to remember that baptism by immersion does not necessarily make one a Christian. 

[4] Believing on Jesus, and having an earnest desire in and of themselves does not make one a Christian. Desire alone is not enough to produce the will, nor the power to become a Christian. Contemporary Christianity focuses heavily on the word believe, but the scriptures teach us that “believing” is just the beginning point. But unless belief translates into a conversion procedure, a person is not a Christian. Let’s read: 

James 2:19 Thou believest that there is one God; thou doest well: the devils also believe, and tremble.

Acts 8:9 But there was a certain man, called Simon, which before-time in the same city used sorcery, and bewitched the people of Samaria.
11 And to him they had regard, because that of long time he had bewitched them with sorceries. 
13 Then Simon himself believed also: and when he was baptized, he continued with Philip.
18 And when Simon saw that through laying on of the apostles' hands the Holy Ghost was given, he offered them money.
20 But Peter said unto him, Thy money perish with thee, because thou hast thought that the gift of God may be purchased with money. 
22 Repent therefore of this thy wickedness.
23 For I perceive that thou art in the gall of bitterness, and in the bond of iniquity.

[4] Saying our memory verses is good, and being an active member of the AY, and pathfinders should be encouraged, but none of these activities makes one a Christian. In some instances, those presentations may look real cute, but we should bear in mind that being a Christian involves much more than being able to rattle off several memory verses, to the applause of cheering crowds. 

[5] Giving Bible studies, and preaching on TBN, and helping the poor are all good deeds, and the human family will almost certainly be benefited from such exercises, but again, none of the above makes one a Christian. 

This leads us to our Bible study today, A Christian is Born. After Christ had begun His ministry a Pharisee by the name of Nicodemus came to Him by night to find answers to some questions which had haunted his mind. But after his initial greeting, Jesus went to the heart of the real issue to be addressed, that of Nicodemus’ conversion. Nicodemus, was a teacher of the law, a renowned professor of theology, with his major probably in Hebrew or Greek. 

But when Christ told him that he needed to become a Christian, he was taken aback, and shaken out of his comfort zone. Furthermore, there is reason for a grave concern for the students under his care, for if the professor was in need of conversion, then what about the many students in his class? Thus, Jesus was about to correct some of the many erroneous concepts then harbored, of who a Christian really is. 

A Christian is born, not of the will of man but of the will of God, which means that the initiative begins with God, is received via our freedom of choice, by accepting Christ, and grows continually through the grace, will, and power of God alone, when coupled together with our freedom to choose. Our inability to save ourselves, or to change our own hearts may be humbling to human nature, but this aspect of the salvation Christ offers is what needs to be urgently understood, and grasped, for it clears the way for both young, and old to receive God’s perfect gift in Christ. Let’s read:

John 3:5 Jesus answered, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born of water and of the Spirit, he cannot enter into the kingdom of God. 
6 That which is born of the flesh is flesh; and that which is born of the Spirit is spirit. 
7 Marvel not that I said unto thee, Ye must be born again.

This new birth that Christ is referring to, is not an improvement on man’s fallen nature, for in order to become a Christian, the old nature of the man must be slain, and only God can do this, because if we try to slay the old man for ourselves we’ll soon discover that he will self-resurrect randomly and without any warning on numerous occasions, where unforeseen circumstances will fan into life our latent tendencies to evil, much to our chagrin. Let’s read:

Galatians 2:20 I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me: and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave himself for me. 
21 I do not frustrate the grace of God: for if righteousness come by the law, then Christ is dead in vain. 

2nd Corinthians 5:17 Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new.

[D.A 324] When the soul surrenders itself to Christ, a new power takes possession of the new heart. A change is wrought which man can never accomplish for himself. It is a supernatural work, bringing a supernatural element into human nature. A soul thus kept in possession by the heavenly agencies is impregnable to the assaults of Satan. 

In the book of Deuteronomy, God gave to parents, instructions on how their offspring should be taught the precepts, statutes, and laws, pertaining to right doing; but this was done with the knowledge that the unconverted heart would falter on numerous occasions. David, Peter, Abraham, Solomon, Isaiah, Moses, Daniel, John, and all the sons of Jacob, the twelve patriarchs all grew up in God-fearing homes, and did right things for a season, in harmony with the instructions received. Let’s read:

Deuteronomy 6:1 Now these are the commandments, the statutes, and the judgments, which the Lord your God commanded to teach you, that ye might do them.
2 That thou mightest fear the Lord thy God, to keep all his statutes and his commandments, which I command thee, thou, and thy son, and thy son's son, all the days of thy life; and that thy days may be prolonged. 
3 Hear therefore, and observe to do it; that it may be well with thee.
6 And these words, which I command thee this day, shall be in thine heart. 
7 And thou shalt teach them diligently unto thy children, and shalt talk of them when thou sittest in thine house, and when thou walkest by the way, and when thou liest down, and when thou risest up. 
8 And thou shalt bind them for a sign upon thine hand, and they shall be as frontlets between thine eyes.
9 And thou shalt write them upon the posts of thy house, and on thy gates.

Grace would then be given to those who tried with a sincere heart to do the right things, but sooner or later, God knows that all such persons would come to the realization that something was still lacking, at which point the conversion procedure, through The One and only Christ Jesus, would then be presented to our minds by the Holy Ghost as being warranted, necessary, and the only feasible way out of our dire predicament.

This moment of reckoning, when we must confront our humanity, with it’s frailties, and utter inability to save ourselves, occurred to each, and everyone who went on to become a Christian, and will be the inevitable experience of all who desire a deep, and abiding relationship with Christ, which constitutes eternal life. We are told of the moment of truth as it occurred in the experiences of some of the most God-fearing men. Let’s read:

Job 42:1 Then Job answered the Lord, and said, 2 I know that thou canst do everything. 
3 Who is he that hideth counsel without knowledge? therefore have I uttered that I understood not; things too wonderful for me, which I knew not. 
6 Wherefore I abhor myself, and repent in dust and ashes.

Isaiah 6:1 In the year that king Uzziah died I saw also the Lord sitting upon a throne, high and lifted up, and his train filled the temple. 
3 And one cried unto another, and said, Holy, holy, holy, is the Lord of hosts: the whole earth is full of his glory. 
5 Then said I, Woe is me! for I am undone; because I
am a man of unclean lips, and I dwell in the midst of a people of unclean lips: for mine eyes have seen the King, the Lord of hosts. 
6 Then flew one of the seraphims unto me, having a live coal in his hand, which he had taken with the tongs from off the altar: 
7 And he laid it upon my mouth, and said, Lo, this hath touched thy lips; and thine iniquity is taken away, and thy sin purged.

Psalms 51:1 Have mercy upon me, O God, according to thy lovingkindness: according unto the multitude of thy tender mercies blot out my transgressions. 
2 Wash me thoroughly from mine iniquity, and cleanse me from my sin. 
3 For I acknowledge my transgressions: and my sin is ever before me.
10 Create in me a clean heart, O God; and renew a right spirit within me.

Daniel 10:2 In those days I Daniel was mourning three full weeks. 
4 And in the four and twentieth day of the first month, as I was by the side of the great river, which is Hiddekel; 
5 Then I lifted up mine eyes, and looked, and behold a certain man clothed in linen, whose loins were girded with fine gold of Uphaz: 
6 His body also was like the beryl, and his face as the appearance of lightning, and his eyes as lamps of fire, and his arms and his feet like in color to polished brass, and the voice of his words like the voice of a multitude. 
8 Therefore I was left alone, and saw this great vision, and there remained no strength in me: for my comeliness was turned in me into corruption, and I retained no strength. 

So, the question is: “How does one become a Christian? There are several answers to be given, 
and which should be explained, and understood by those who seek a meaningful, covenant relationship with Christ. [1] The first initiative begins with God, by which a revelation of our true selves would show us both our sinfulness and our utter inability to fix ourselves. Let’s read:

Psalms 139:23 Search me, O God, and know my heart: try me, and know my thoughts. 
24 And see if there be any wicked way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting.

[2] The next initiative also comes from God through Christ, as He is presented as the only way by which anyone can be redeemed, restored and empowered to live victoriously. Self-help, and every man-made method of salvation is left in the dust, for as the Bible teaches, without Christ, we can do absolutely nothing. Let’s read:

Romans 8:29 For whom he did foreknow, he also did predestinate to be conformed to the image of his Son, that he might be the firstborn among many brethren. 
30 Moreover whom he did predestinate, them he also called: and whom he called, them he also justified: and whom he justified, them he also glorified. 
31 What shall we then say to these things? If God be for us, who can be against us?

Acts 4:12 Neither is there salvation in any other: for there is none other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved.

[3] The third and ongoing step is that of abiding in Christ, through the supernatural power of The Holy Spirit dwelling in us. God gives us the mind to love righteousness, and hate iniquity, He also gives us His Spirit to enable us to grow continually, and if we were to continue submitting to His saving work of redemption, through our freedom of choice, the rest is history, for we will walk right through the pearly gates, all because of what God has done in us, for us, and to us. Let’s read:

John 15:4 Abide in me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit of itself, except it abide in the vine; no more can ye, except ye abide in me. 
5 I am the vine, ye are the branches: He that abideth in me, and I in him, the same bringeth forth much fruit: for without me ye can do nothing. 
7 If ye abide in me, and my words abide in you, ye shall ask what ye will, and it shall be done unto you. 
8 Herein is my Father glorified, that ye bear much fruit; so shall ye be my disciples. 
9 As the Father hath loved me, so have I loved you: continue ye in my love. 
10 If ye keep my commandments, ye shall abide in my love; even as I have kept my Father's
commandments, and abide in his love.
11 These things have I spoken unto you, that my joy might remain in you, and that your joy might be full.

Understanding that a Christian is born, that it is a supernatural procedure performed on the heart, by the power of God alone, will be of immense value in helping us to both understand, and deal mercifully with our fellowmen, and those who have not yet known Christ. It will also help us greatly in managing our expectations of those who have not yet been born again. Therefore, in closing, we would need to keep in mind that we all need the Person of Christ in our hearts, for any good, or right things outside of Christ is vanity. Let’s read:

[D.A. pp 296>297] As His representatives among men, Christ does not choose angels who have never fallen, but human beings, men of like passions with those they seek to save. Man needs power outside of and beyond himself, to restore him to the likeness of God, and enable him to do the work of God; but this does not make the human agency unessential. Humanity lays hold upon divine power, Christ dwells in the heart by faith; and through co-operation with the divine, the power of man becomes efficient for good.

                                                                      God bless!
 

In All Thy Ways. Sabbath Afternoon. 12/30/2017

As we approach another new year with a different set of challenges facing Christians world-wide, it is necessary, even now more than ever, for us to take those counsels given us in Proverbs seriously, which say “In all thy ways acknowledge Him”… Added to this is the instruction given us in 1st Thessalonians 5, which are like three little words right on your door step, by which we are encouraged to “Pray without ceasing”… Let’s read:

Proverbs 3:5 Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. 
6 In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths. 

1st Thessalonians 5: 17 Pray without ceasing.

When taken together as a practical workable whole, these timely counsels will serve as a bulwark against those snares, and temptations which have taken us down repeatedly in times past, and which according to the warnings given in scripture, are scheduled to increase in intensity, ferocity, and frequency, as we stand upon the borders of the heavenly Canaan. We should never restrict the sovereignty of God to only certain areas of our lives, whilst excluding Him from others, which we may prefer to manage ourselves.

In order for us, as Christians to live victoriously, and consistently, we must ask for God’s continual power and guidance in all the affairs, and decision-making processes of life. The reason for this is that God has promised to engage both His omnipotence, and His omniscience in behalf of those who will trust, and ask, so as to avoid making those critical errors, and mistakes in judgment, whilst enabling us to put into practice, that which is lawful and right.

This will call for humility, patience, and faith so that God’s good will may be accomplished in due season in the lives of His people. Here is where many of us falter, for we often believe that we are capable of handling our own temporal affairs, independent of God’s guidance; but in so doing we will certainly be made the sport of circumstances. The temptations of satan are often masked under the veneer of logic and so-called intelligence, and because of this we’ll discover that we are utterly unable to discern good from evil, in very many situations. Let’s read:

[Christian service. pp 253] There are many who believe and profess to claim the Lord's promise; they talk about Christ and about the Holy Spirit, yet receive no benefit. They do not surrender the soul to be guided and controlled by the divine agencies. Through the Spirit God works in His people “to will and to do of His good pleasure.” But many will not submit to this. They want to manage themselves. This is why they do not receive the heavenly gift. Only to those who wait humbly upon God, who watch for His guidance and grace, is the Spirit given.

This does not mean that we will never make errors in judgment, but if, and when that occurs, God will be proactive in shielding us from danger, because we made it a habit to check in with Him first, before doing anything in any line. It is the willingness, and the tendency to seek God’s direction that He honors with His guidance, and discretion. 

As we stated earlier, God brings to the table several important assets, which are not the domain of any mortal, or created being, but are the exclusive right of God alone. These assets do include omnipotence, omniscience, and omnipresence. However, it is His power of omniscience that we need most in all our planning. This singular ability of God, to accurately read the future, is of indispensable value to those who are battling visible, and invisible spiritual foes. Let’s read:

Psalms 32:8 I will instruct thee and teach thee in the way which thou shalt go: I will guide thee with mine eye. 
9 Be ye not as the horse, or as the mule, which have no understanding: whose mouth must be held in with bit and bridle, lest they come near unto thee.

Proverbs 1:1 The proverbs of Solomon the son of David, king of Israel; 
2 To know wisdom and instruction; to perceive the words of understanding; 
3 To receive the instruction of wisdom, justice, and judgment, and equity; 
4 To give subtilty to the simple, to the young man knowledge and discretion. 
5 A wise man will hear, and will increase learning; and a man of understanding shall attain unto wise counsels. 
7 The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge: but fools despise wisdom and
instruction. 

Proverbs 2:1 My son, if thou wilt receive my words, and hide my commandments with thee; 
5 Then shalt thou understand the fear of the Lord, and find the knowledge of God. 
6 For the Lord giveth wisdom: out of his mouth cometh knowledge and understanding.
8 He keepeth the paths of judgment, and preserveth the way of his saints. 
9 Then shalt thou understand righteousness, and judgment, and equity; yea, every good path. 
10 When wisdom entereth into thine heart, and knowledge is pleasant unto thy soul; 
11 Discretion shall preserve thee, understanding shall keep thee: 
12 To deliver thee from the way of the evil man, from the man that speaketh froward things;

When God gives a promise, the human agent must always go back to God to find out how, and when it is to be accomplished, because promises are not an end in themselves, to be fulfilled in our own time and way, independent of God. This is where many of us fail so often; because we have the promise at our backs, and because it is something good to do, then we often take it upon ourselves to leave God’s guidance, and instructions out of the picture. 

For instance, when God chooses to bless His people financially, the funds are not to be used according to our own discretion, independent of God. Instead, we are to walk humbly before Him in prayer, asking the all-important question, “Lord, what wilt Thou have me to do”. Then, in response, God will give us wisdom, and instruction in disbursing, or using the blessing in the best, and most efficient manner for His glory, and the benefit of those whom He designs should be recipients. 

But if we assume, that just because it is a blessing from God, that we may do whatsoever we choose with it, then the following passage will certainly be fulfilled in due season. Let’s read:

Proverbs 23:5 For riches certainly make themselves wings; they fly away as an eagle toward heaven.

Thus, very important lessons can be learned from the experience of one of the prominent characters in the Bible, as he too stumbled on the issue of God being consulted before making any decision. Joshua was granted promises, blessings, and guarantees, to be channeled to the Hebrews. But these were never to preclude a humble prayerful dependence on God as is so often the case with those whom God plans to bless. Let’s read:

[1] The promises, and the blessings: 
Joshua 1:1 Now after the death of Moses, the Lord spoke unto Joshua the son of Nun saying, 
2 Moses my servant is dead; now therefore arise, go over this Jordan, thou, and all this people, unto the land which I do give to them, even to the children of Israel. 
3 Every place that the sole of your foot shall tread upon, that have I given unto you, as I said unto Moses.
5 There shall not any man be able to stand before thee all the days of thy life: as I was with Moses, so I will be with thee: I will not fail thee, nor forsake thee.

The Confirmation:
Joshua 2:7 And the Lord said unto Joshua, This day will I begin to magnify thee in the sight of all Israel, that they may know that, as I was with Moses, so I will be with thee.
10 Hereby ye shall know that the living God is among you;
11 Behold, the ark of the covenant of the Lord of all the earth passeth over before you into Jordan. 
13 And it shall come to pass, as soon as the soles of the feet of the priests that bear the ark of the Lord shall rest in the waters of Jordan, that the waters of Jordan shall be cut off from the waters that come down from above; and they shall stand upon an heap.
15 And as they that bare the ark were come unto Jordan, and the feet of the priests that bare the ark were dipped in the brim of the water, 
16 That the waters which came down from above stood and rose up upon an heap very far from the city Adam, that is beside Zaretan: and those that came down toward the sea of the plain, even the salt sea, failed, and were cut off: and the people passed over right against Jericho. 
17 And the priests that bare the ark of the covenant of the Lord stood firm on dry ground in the midst of Jordan, and all the Israelites passed over on dry ground, until all the people were passed clean over Jordan.

Joshua 6:27 So the Lord was with Joshua; and his fame was noised throughout all the country.

Here comes one of the most common mistakes, we as Christians often make. We have the promise, we have the confirmation, and next comes satan with the temptation to presumption, to take for granted that we do not need God’s counsels and instruction anymore, since we obviously have His good favor at our backs. Big mistake! 

“In all thy ways acknowledge Him” does not mean in some of thy ways, instead, it means that before we go shopping, before we work, before we go on vacation, before commencing an exercise program, before we call 911, or 411, before we eat, before we open our mouths to speak in volatile situations. Before we choose a career, before a university is to be attended, before choosing a female wife, before we take a job, before we discipline our children, and before we do any of those things we’re accustomed to do without prayer, “In all thy ways acknowledge Him, that He may direct our paths aright”…. 

That is what it means, and nothing else! In other words, the Christian will constantly be checking in with God throughout the day, waiting and watching, and seeking Him before doing anything. This is how Enoch walked with God, by inviting Him into every area of life, and when Enoch’s mind became fully synchronized with God’s own, he was translated to heaven without seeing death. However, in some of his earlier experiences, Joshua stumbled more than once on the same point, and made bad judgment calls as a direct result. Let’s read:

Joshua 7:2 And Joshua sent men from Jericho to Ai, which is beside Bethaven, on the east of Bethel, and spake unto them, saying, Go up and view the country. And the men went up and viewed Ai. 
3 And they returned to Joshua, and said unto him, Let not all the people go up; but let about two or three thousand men go up and smite Ai; and make not all the people to labor thither; for they are but few. 
4 So there went up thither of the people about three thousand men: and they fled before the men of Ai. 
5 And the men of Ai smote of them about thirty and six men: for they chased them from before the gate even unto Shebarim, and smote them in the going down: wherefore the hearts of the people melted, and became as water. 
6 And Joshua rent his clothes, and fell to the earth upon his face before the ark of the Lord until the eventide, he and the elders of Israel, and put dust upon their heads. 
7 And Joshua said, Alas, O Lord God, wherefore hast thou at all brought this people over Jordan, to deliver us into the hand of the Amorites, to destroy us? would to God we had been content, and dwelt on the other side Jordan! 
10 And the Lord said unto Joshua, Get thee up; wherefore liest thou thus upon thy face? 
11 Israel hath sinned, and they have also transgressed my covenant which I commanded them: for they have even taken of the accursed thing, and have also stolen, and dissembled also, and they have put it even among their own stuff. 
12 Therefore the children of Israel could not stand before their enemies, but turned their backs before their enemies, because they were accursed: neither will I be with you any more, except ye destroy the accursed from among you.

God’s omniscience would have come in handy in a preemptive manner, for if the above information was sought, and given, prior to the encounter at Ai, Joshua would not have sent his men to suffer signal defeat. There are very great, and important lessons for us here, because, like Joshua, we often plan for ourselves, and after we have decided what we are going to do, then we ask God to comply, by adding His blessing. 

But it should be the exact opposite, for His will is to be revealed to us first, then we should sign at the bottom of the page, showing a humble reliance, and compliance with His counsels.

Some of us have already begun making plans for the new year without first praying, and we do not even know if we will live to see the new year, but we’ve already started laying our plans way into the future. When God is sought at the back-end of our plans, it is usually too late to avoid serious mistakes, and as such, we should endeavor to humbly learn from the experiences of those who have gone before. Thus, the following caution, and instruction will prove to be of immense value to all those who are willing to wait humbly upon God. Let’s read:

[H.P pp 213] Each morning consecrate yourself and your family to God for that day. Make no calculation for months, or years, for they are not yours. One brief day is given you, and that one day, work for yourself and your family as though it were your last. Surrender all your plans to God, to be carried out or given up, as His providence shall indicate. 

In this manner you may, day by day, be giving your life with its plans, and purposes into the hands of God, accepting His plans instead of your own, no matter how much they may interfere with your arrangements, or how many pleasant projects may have to be abandoned. Thus, the life will be molded more, and more after the divine Model; and “the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.”

As we face another untried year, as we face head winds in the political, and spiritual realms, and as the earth is about to be lightened with the glory of God, to bring earth’s probation to a final close, let the following two passages be our motif, our motto, and our way of life, for in so doing, we may navigate the many snares, and pitfalls that are skillfully laid for the feet of the unwary. Let’s read:

Isaiah 40:31 But they that wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint.

Psalms 27:14 Wait on the Lord: be of good courage, and he shall strengthen thine heart: wait, I say, on the Lord. 
                                                                   Happy New year.
                                                                        God Bless!
 

Preserving The Blessing. Sabbath Afternoon. 12/23/2017

Blessings coming from God to us, are intended for our benefit, but our response to His mercies often can change the blessing into something other than that which was originally intended. That’s why our response to His kindnesses can either preserve the blessing or reverse it. In fact, most of the problems currently affecting the human family, started out as blessings, but our inattention to God’s instructions caused the blessing to become injurious. Marriage started out as a blessing, but by the introduction of divergent views on the sacred institution, it is now breeding “Worms”. Let’s read:

Genesis 2:22 And the rib, which the Lord God had taken from man, made he a woman, and brought her unto the man.
23 And Adam said, This is now bone of my bones, and flesh of my flesh: she shall be called Woman, because she was taken out of Man. 
24 Therefore shall a man leave his father and his mother, and shall cleave unto his wife: and they shall be one flesh.

Genesis 6:1 And it came to pass, when men began to multiply on the face of the earth, and daughters were born unto them, 
2 That the sons of God saw the daughters of men that they were fair; and they took them wives of all which they chose.

Leviticus 18:22 Thou shalt not lie with mankind, as with womankind: it is abomination.
24 Defile not ye yourselves in any of these things: for in all these the nations are defiled which I cast out before you. 25 And the land is defiled: therefore, I do visit the iniquity thereof upon it, and the land itself vomiteth out her inhabitants. 

Food also started out as a blessing, but because we have thrown out God’s wise instructions pertaining to what should or should not be eaten, very adverse results have followed in the wake of our disregard of dietary laws. Most of the common killers such as heart failure, high blood pressure, stroke, clogged arteries, and diabetes, can be traced back to what we eat, or how we eat, and thus, what was given to be a great blessing, has now become public enemy number one, because of our response. Let’s read:

Leviticus 7:22 And the Lord spake saying,
23 Ye shall eat no manner of fat, of ox, or of sheep, or of goat. 
24 Ye shall in no wise eat of it.

Leviticus 7:26 Moreover ye shall eat no manner of blood, whether it be of fowl or of beast, in any of your dwellings. 
27 Whatsoever soul it be that eateth any manner of blood, even that soul shall be cut off from his people.

Global warming, and very much of its adverse side effects, such as deadly hurricanes, tornadoes, fires, and floods, are the result of man’s doing, for when God created the earth, with the firmament, and the clean air, He declared them to be very good. But as it is with so many other blessings, we have turned it into a curse, by the wanton disregard of agricultural laws, coupled together with rampant deforestation. Thus, we’re facing radical climate change, and we’re now stuck with almost 90% GMO’s. 

2016 was the hottest year on record. And the 12 warmest years on record have all occurred since 1998. But the Sabbatical rest God had instituted for the earth, was designed to prevent its overplanting, and would have given it ample rest for rejuvenation. But because of our choices, the earth is becoming quite stubborn, as far as production is concerned, and needs more, and more coaxing to supply the worlds teeming multitudes with food. Let’s read:

Leviticus 25:1 And the Lord spake saying, 
2 When ye come into the land which I give you, then shall the land keep a sabbath unto the Lord. 
3 Six years thou shalt sow thy field, and six years thou shalt prune thy vineyard, and gather in the fruit thereof; 
4 But in the seventh year shall be a sabbath of rest unto the land, a sabbath for the Lord: thou shalt neither sow thy field, nor prune thy vineyard. 
5 That which groweth of its own accord of thy harvest thou shalt not reap, neither gather the grapes of thy vine undressed: for it is a year of rest unto the land.

Talents of music, and singing are given as blessings from God, with the intent that they would be used in glorifying God, and uplifting humanity; but these gifts can also turn sour, when put to a wrong use. In many instances, those who were blessed with the gift of music, have died prematurely, because what God gave was not preserved, through obedience to His instructions. Cases in point are Michael Jackson, Whitney Houston, and Prince, all of whom were the recipients of God’s blessings, but who died too early because of bad choices made.

Therefore, our disposition to obey, or disobey sets the stage for a blessing to be preserved as such, or for a blessing to become a curse. This leads us to a well-documented history of the Hebrews. As they travelled through the wilderness, God decided to bless them with manna, which was intended for the nutrition, health, and rejuvenation of the people. It was given with the specific instruction that it should not be kept over-night, otherwise it would stink and
breed worms. 

As we observe the blessing, and the instructions given along with it, we should pay attention to the variables, because our response to God’s blessings can make all the difference. Very much of what God is often blamed for, is actually seated in the way we respond to His laws, pertaining to the various issues in question. Let’s read:

Exodus 16: 16 This is the thing which the Lord hath commanded, take every man for them which are in his tents. 
19 Let no man leave of it till the morning. 
20 Notwithstanding, some of them left of it until the morning, and it bred worms, and stank.
22 And it came to pass, that on the sixth day they gathered twice as much bread, two omers for one man. 
23 And he said unto them, This is that which the Lord hath said, Tomorrow is the rest of the holy sabbath unto the Lord: bake that which ye will bake to day, and seethe that ye will seethe; and that which remaineth over lay up for you to be kept until the morning.
24 And they laid it up till the morning, as Moses bade: and it did not stink, neither was there any worm therein.
25 And Moses said, Eat that to day; for to day is a sabbath unto the Lord: to day ye shall not find it in the field. 
26 Six days ye shall gather it; but on the seventh day, which is the sabbath, in it there shall be none. 
27 And it came to pass, that there went out some of the people on the seventh day for to gather, and they found none. 
28 And the Lord said, How long refuse ye to keep my commandments and my laws?

The manna that fell on each day of the week was exactly the same, in quality, in consistency, and in ingredients. The only two variables were obedience, and the Sabbath, nothing else. Thus, as it pertains to the blessings of God, obedience or disobedience is what makes all the difference. The blessings God gives to us, can either nourish, and sustain, and be preserved by obedience, or through disobedience, the very same blessings can breed worms.

However, the greatest gift God has given us is to be found in Jesus Christ, who came to offer us eternal life, and abundant living, but as was stated before, what we do with the gift, and our response to Him will make all the difference. Just as it is with gifts of food, marriage, music, and wealth, obedience to His instructions paves the way for preserving the gift. On the contrary, disobedience will cause what was originally intended for our good to become adverse. Therefore, our response makes all the difference. Let’s read:

Matthew 21:44 And whosoever shall fall on this stone shall be broken: but on whomsoever it shall fall, it will grind him to powder.

John 10:10 The thief cometh not, but for to steal, and to kill, and to destroy: I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly.

John 3:16 For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life. 
17 For God sent not his Son into the world to condemn the world; but that the world through him might be saved.

These passages reveal to us unmistakably, that the original intent of God in sending Jesus to our world was for our benefit and upliftment, and it is true, that those who respond to God’s gracious Gift, will be granted eternal life, if we continue in obedience to His instructions. In other words, we can preserve the blessing only by obeying His every word. Let’s read:

John 14:15 If ye love me, keep my commandments.

John 15:10 If ye keep my commandments, ye shall abide in my love; even as I have kept my Father's commandments, and abide in his love.
14 Ye are my friends, if ye do whatsoever I command you.

1st John 5:2 By this we know that we love the children of God, when we love God, and keep his commandments. 
3 For this is the love of God, that we keep his commandments: and his commandments are not grievous.

However, any disregard of God’s laws will put the human agent at odds with the very same Jesus who came to save us. We could celebrate His birth from now until thy kingdom come, and we may decorate trees with lights, in memory of His great gift; but if obedience does not follow, the gift will breed those proverbial worms we read about earlier, when the manna was given for the good of the Hebrews, yet bred worms through their disobedience. Let’s read:

Matthew 25:31 When the Son of man shall come in his glory, and all the holy angels with him, then shall he sit upon the throne of his glory.
32 And before him shall be gathered all nations: and he shall separate them one from another, as a shepherd divideth his sheep from the goats:
33 And he shall set the sheep on his right hand, but the goats on the left. 
34 Then shall the King say unto them on his right hand, Come, ye blessed of my Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world. 
41 Then shall he say also unto them on the left hand, Depart from me, ye cursed, into everlasting fire, prepared for the devil and his angels.

This last verse should be understood in the context of God’s original good purposes towards the human family, for no human being ought to find himself, or herself in the fires of hell, especially since God has amply provided salvation, and eternal life for all who will believe, and obey.

About two weeks ago we had a cold snap by Florida standards, and sometimes during the winter, it may go down to the low forties, or even thirties, on rare occasions. During those cold spells I may light up my proverbial chimney, so that my family could be kept warm. This is a good purpose, and is the only reason in firing up the chimney, to keep the family warm. 

But I have never encouraged, instructed, or advised Santa to come down my chimney with his rein deer, so if that were to take place, and anyone was to get burned, no one can blame me, because the fault is not mine, for my original intention was good. God, also has a chimney prepared for the specific intent of destroying satan, and his angels, and therefore, no human being has any right to come down that chimney through disobedience. Which leads us to a quote coming from the pen of inspiration, dealing with the same issue. Let’s read:

[C.O.L pp 84>85] God destroys no man. Everyone who is destroyed will have destroyed himself. Everyone who stifles the admonitions of conscience is sowing the seeds of unbelief, and these will produce a sure harvest. By rejecting the first warning from God, Pharaoh of old sowed the seeds of obstinacy, and he reaped obstinacy. God did not compel him to disbelieve. The seed of unbelief which he sowed produced a harvest of its kind.

In closing it is important for us to keep in mind, that we hold the keys to our own destiny, through our response to God’s gracious overtures in Christ. Let us therefore choose wisely because the blessing can only be preserved through obedience, nothing else. This leads us to our final passage. Let’s read:

Revelation 22:12 And, behold, I come quickly; and my reward is with me, to give every man according as his work shall be. 
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. 
17 And the Spirit and the bride say, Come. And let him that heareth say, Come. And let him that is athirst come. And whosoever will, let him take the water of life freely.

                                                                    God bless! 
 

Why Me? Sabbath Afternoon 12/16/2017

This question is often asked only when supposedly bad things are happening to us, but when we are enjoying the blessings of God, when we are blessed with health and strength and numberless favors we hardly ever ask “Why me?” Another question that is often asked, usually after some personal or national tragedy is, why should bad things happen to good people, but we hardly ever ask why do good things happen to bad people. 

Thus, in many instances, the blessings, and mercies of God, which are unmerited, and new to us every morning to us, go by without acknowledgement on the part of the receiver but when trouble comes our way, the blessings, by contrast, are often made to pale into insignificance. However, the Bible gives us instruction on how to deal with the vicissitudes of life, by often reflecting, and dwelling on the good that God sends our way, instead of being consumed with what we may deem to be bad  experiences. Let’s read:

1st Thessalonians 5:17 Pray without ceasing. 
18 In everything give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you. 
19 Quench not the Spirit.

Philippians 4:11 Not that I speak in respect of want: for I have learned, in whatsoever state I am, therewith to be content. 
12 I know both how to be abased, and I know how to abound: everywhere and in all things I am instructed both to be full and to be hungry, both to abound and to suffer need. 
13 I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me.

These passages do not teach us to be naïve to dire circumstances, but they do encourage us to dwell on the positives, instead of the negatives, and also to trust in God, at those times when we may not be able to see clearly. Human tendency is to focus on the bad, hence the reason why reporting by media organizations is comprised mostly of bad news. And often when a friend, or a brother is going through rough times, our conversations may tend to spawn many unanswerable questions, because in so many cases, the variables, the causes, and the reasons may not be readily apparent. 

As a general rule of thumb, God does not give any person, the responsibility of trying to explain His providences in the lives of the righteous, or even those who do not know Him, for His ways are past finding out. Some people stumble over the issue of slavery, others over 9/11, and still others are at a loss when a friend or loved one may die suddenly. God often moves in mysterious ways, and thus, the experiences, and providences we don’t understand are best left alone, lest we put a wrong spin on the things we do not know, very much the same like John the Baptist’s disciples. Let’s read:

[D.A pp214>215] The life of John had been one of active labor, and the gloom, and inaction of prison life weighed heavily upon him. His disciples did not forsake him. But they questioned why, if this new teacher was the Messiah, He did nothing to effect John's release. How could He permit His faithful herald to be deprived of liberty and perhaps of life? These questions were not without effect. 

Doubts, which otherwise would never have arisen were suggested to John. Satan rejoiced to hear the words of these disciples, and to see how they bruised the soul of the Lord's messenger. Oh, how often those who think themselves the friends of a good man, and who are eager to show their fidelity to him, prove to be his most dangerous enemies! How often, instead of strengthening his faith, their words depress and dishearten!

In Joseph’s case, we are told of how he was jailed after doing the right thing, and those who live many centuries after are given a detailed account of some of the intelligent reasons why God permitted him to be incarcerated. Yet, we must remember that none of those reasons were given to Joseph when he was going through his trial, yet his faith held on firmly to God, trusting His goodness in places where he could not trace Him, and when nothing seemed to make sense. 

Joseph could have asked the same question, “Why me?”, after standing firm for truth, and after being severely tempted with sexual harassment, and after resisting the assaults by Potiphar’s wife. There was no #Me too in Joseph’s day, and there was not an apparent reason for the sudden change of fortune, yet he did all he could to keep his spirit up, and to be cheerful in adversity.

This was the issue of Job’s experience, when after doing everything “Right” untold trouble came upon him, to the point where he lost almost all he had held dear on this earth, in a few days. Then it was, that the same age-old question, which has haunted the minds of many for centuries, arose in his mind, causing him to ask, “if I have done everything right, and have been diligent in following the Lord, Why me? Asaph, David’s chief musician, also asked the same question, and therefore, an answer from God alone is appropriate.

As Job sat in ashes, licking his proverbial wounds, he recounted his righteous deeds, in the context of his present condition, and something did not seem to add up. His friends also made the common mistake, so many folks make, of trying to reason from cause to effect. By the way, there is a passage in the Bible which on the surface may seem to lend credence to their line of reasoning, but even this text falls short of explaining Job’s condition. Let’s read:

Proverbs 26:2 As the bird by wandering, as the swallow by flying, so the curse causeless shall not come.

Job 4:1 Then Eliphaz the Temanite answered and said,
7 Remember, I pray thee, whoever perished, being innocent? 
8 Even as I have seen, they that plow iniquity, and sow wickedness, reap the same.

Job 29:1 Moreover Job continued his parable, and said,
12 I delivered the poor that cried and the fatherless, and him that had none to help him.
14 I put on righteousness, and it clothed me: my judgment was as a robe and a diadem. 
15 I was eyes to the blind, and feet was I to the lame. 
16 I was a father to the poor: and the cause which I knew not I searched out.

Job 3:26 Yet trouble came! 

These, and so many other reasonings, prompted an answer from God, for it was necessary for Him to address, not merely Job’s troubles, but the larger issue of His sovereignty. It is worthy of note that in all the ensuing conversations between God and Job, God never saw it necessary to give an explanation. Instead, He gives Job detailed lessons in science and creation, which deal with the bigger question, “Did God have the right to permit such things to come upon a righteous man, or anyone for that matter. Let’s read:

Job 38:1 Then the Lord answered Job out of the whirlwind, and said, 
2 Who is this that darkeneth counsel by words without knowledge? 
3 Gird up now thy loins like a man; for I will demand of thee, and answer thou me. 
4 Where wast thou when I laid the foundations of the earth?
9 When I made the cloud the garment thereof, and thick darkness a swaddling-band for it, 
10 And brake up for it my decreed place, and set bars and doors, 
11 And said, Hitherto shalt thou come, but no further: and here shall thy proud waves be stayed?
22 Hast thou entered into the treasures of the snow? or hast thou seen the treasures of the hail, 
23 Which I have reserved against the time of trouble, against the day of battle and war?  
39 Wilt thou hunt the prey for the lion? or fill the appetite of the young lions, 
40 When they couch in their dens, and abide in the covert to lie in wait? 
41 Who provideth for the raven his food? when his young ones cry unto God, they wander for lack of meat.

Job 42:1 Then Job answered the Lord, and said, 2 I know that thou canst do everything, and that no thought can be withholden from thee. 
3 Therefore have I uttered that I understood not; things too wonderful for me, which I knew not. 
6 Wherefore I abhor myself, and repent in dust and ashes.

That answer given by Job was correct, but it would prove to be grossly insufficient to address the main underlying issue of “Why me”. Most Christians are resolved to the fact that God can do anything, and no one can stop Him, even if we wanted to. But God probes us deeper with the question of whether we think that is right, and if so, do we agree that He is fair, when He may permit adverse circumstances, or temptations to come our way. Therefore, the other question God asked Job is of great import to all who must walk by faith. Let’s read:

Job 40:1 Moreover the Lord answered Job, and said, 2 Shall he that contendeth with the Almighty instruct him? he that reproveth God, let him answer it. 
8 Wilt thou also disannul my judgment? wilt thou condemn me, that thou mayest be righteous?

Job 40:3 Then Job answered the Lord, and said, 
4 Behold, I am vile; what shall I answer thee? I will lay mine hand upon my mouth. 
5 Once have I spoken; but I will not answer: yea, twice; but I will proceed no further.

It is worthy of note that Job’s present condition was never discussed, nor mentioned in that interview with God, neither was he given any explanation for what took place. In fact, the question of Why Me is never addressed, for that is not the real question. If God was to give Job a detailed explanation, or if He were to pull back the curtain for Job, and his family to observe what was really taking place behind the scenes, Job would most likely end up with lots more questions than answers. Instead, the overwhelming majority of questions God posed to Job, addresses the issue of His sovereignty. 

We must be very careful, in our finite understanding to try to explain the providences of God, whenever tragedy, or difficulty comes upon people, for there are always unknown variables, and reasons we may not bring into the equation. It is quite possible, that if God was to explain why He permitted such and such to come upon people, we may become more discouraged. 
Take for instance Job; if God was to now give him a detailed explanation of why he was going through his drama, He would begin with the conference that took place in the heavenly courts, where satan had intruded without invitation, as the representative of our planet. Then God would need to inform Job that satan made a glaring accusation, charging God with bribery, and because of that, God decided to choose Job as the test case to prove to the universe that He bribes no one to serve Him.
 
But then, another question would most likely arise in Job’s mind: Why me? Why was I chosen to be the test case? Then God would have to explain to Job that he was the only person living on the planet at that time whom God could knew would be faithful if His material blessings were removed and that’s why he was chosen. But then, that answer would likely raise new questions in Job’s mind, for if indeed he was to be the test case, why then were all of his children involved, and what about those innocent animals, and his pets that were lost in the carnage. 

What do the pets have to do with satan’s charge of bribery? And before you know it God would have to give a million, and one reasons, some of which Job may not agree with or understand and which would spawn more questions than answers, and would be likely to cause Job to become even more perplexed.

So the real question is about God’s sovereignty. The centurion in Christ’s day had understood the issue of God’s sovereignty, for he recognized that a word from Jesus only needed to be spoken, for His will to be done. He also gave the reason why he had come to that conclusion, stating “I am a man also having authority, and I say to one, go, and he goes”, that is without questioning, and without explanation, if I so choose. Indeed, it was only in instances such as this where we read that Jesus “marveled”. Let’s read:

Matthew 8:5 And when Jesus was entered into Capernaum, there came unto him a centurion, beseeching him, 
6 And saying, Lord, my servant lieth at home sick of the palsy, grievously tormented. 
7 And Jesus saith unto him, I will come and heal him. 
8 The centurion answered and said, Lord, I am not worthy that thou shouldest come under my roof: but speak the word only, and my servant shall be healed. 
9 For I am a man under authority, having soldiers under me: and I say to this man, Go, and he goeth; and to another, Come, and he cometh; and to my servant, Do this, and he doeth it. 
10 When Jesus heard it, he marveled, and said to them that followed, Verily I say unto you, I have not found so great faith, no, not in Israel. 

The mighty seraphim, and cherubim which minister in God’s presence, doing His bidding, are often sent on missions, of which they have no clue why God is sending them on such and such an errand. Yet, in the book of Ezekiel they are seen darting back and forth with the speed of lightening, in obedience to the will of God. A case in point is when Gabriel was sent to inform Mary of the coming fusion of Divinity with humanity. Gabriel’s words to her tell us that he did not understand how it was to take place. Let’s read:

Luke 1:35 And the angel answered and said unto her, The Holy Ghost shall come upon thee, and the power of the Highest shall overshadow thee. Therefore, also that holy thing which shall be born of thee shall be called the Son of God.

We will never read where they ask for explanations before making their journey, yet they are eager to carry out the orders, which in many instances they may not have any clue as to the hows, whys, and whens. Let’s read: 

Ezekiel 1:12 And they went everyone straight forward: whither the spirit was to go, they went; and they turned not when they went. 
14 And the living creatures ran and returned as the appearance of a flash of lightning.

All who are preparing to preach the three angel’s messages of Revelation 14, must indeed understand the issue of God’s sovereignty, or they will be ill-prepared for what is to transpire on the earth in the outpouring of the latter rain, the plagues which will follow, and what the prophet Isaiah describes as His “Strange Act”. 

God’s sovereignty is what was at stake in the issue of same-sex marriage. In other words, does He have the right, and the authority to define for us mortals, what marriage is? The Sabbath issue also raises the same question too, does God have the right to tell us which day we should worship on. The issue of morality in general, the issue of health, dress, and every other dimension of the human experience all come to one basic question of God’s Sovereignty.

The apostle Paul warns us of the coming clash of ideologies, concepts, principles, laws, and lifestyles, which will culminate in the attempt to usurp God’s sovereignty. The antichrist system of government, headed by the son of perdition, is now challenging the sovereignty of God, and soon and very soon, all peoples of the earth will have to choose between the sovereignty of God, and the sovereignty of man. Let’s read:

2nd Thessalonians 2:3 Let no man deceive you by any means: for that day shall not come, except there come a falling away first, and that man of sin be revealed, the son of perdition; 
4 Who opposeth and exalteth himself above all that is called God, or that is worshipped; so that he as God sitteth in the temple of God, shewing himself that he is God.
8 And then shall that Wicked be revealed, whom the Lord shall consume with the spirit of his mouth, and shall destroy with the brightness of his coming: 
9 Even him, whose coming is after the working of Satan with all power and signs and lying wonders, 
10 And with all deceivableness of unrighteousness in them that perish; because they received not the love of the truth, that they might be saved.

In closing, let us therefore not be engrossed with questions such as why me, but let us instead seek to understand the sovereignty of God, because Christ is coming again as a king not a savior.

                                                                     God bless!
 

Where Grace Did Abound. Sabbath Afternoon 12/09/2017

When Adam sinned, the human family forfeited life, and all that pertains to life, and thus, our continued existence is the result of God’s grace, manifested to sustain those who should have been dead long ago. In the book of Genesis, it is written that Noah found grace, but this statement does not mean that grace was not available to every person then living. The difference is that Noah and his family “Found” that which had been abundantly provided for everyone.

The same is true in our day, for in the midst of the prevailing iniquity, in the midst of the dark shadows of immorality, and violence that have spread their tentacles across the land, the grace of God is still available for all who like Noah, will “Find” it. Thus, our main thrust will be to discover how we may find God’s grace.

Wherever much sin is to be found, much grace will also be given to correspond to our needs. “Doctors without borders” do not typically travel to healthy countries; instead, their services will have the most impact where there is dire need of urgent, medical assistance. The same is true of God’s grace, but on a much larger, and grander scale, for it is Christ who once said that “They which are whole do not need a physician but those who are sick.” 

Thus, in harmony with that statement, God grants us much grace, and mercy, especially at those times when our morale is low, and the horizon may seem foreboding, on account of our national and personal sins. However, a common error is often made when we restrict the concept of God’s grace to only apply to salvation, forgiveness of sins, and mercy towards the sinner. While all of these aspects do apply, God desires that we take a more holistic approach in our understanding of His grace.

God’s grace is described as being the “Unmerited” favor of God, granted to those who do not deserve such favor. Holy angels who have never fallen, and the created beings of other worlds who have never sinned, have never been in need of grace. The grace of God to us therefore represents The Lord as doing what He is not duty bound to, nor is He supposed to do. This covers not only forgiveness of sin, salvation and eternal life, but also such mundane necessities, as food, water, oxygen, sunshine, and rain. 

There is no moral, legal, or paternal responsibility, binding upon God to provide to us these temporal blessings, for all such entitlements were forfeited, on account of our sins, and therefore, many things that we have come to take for granted, should be placed in the unmerited column. Life was promised to our first parents on condition of obedience, so when sin entered because of Adam, death became our only entitlement. Therefore, if we have food on our tables, clothes to wear, and a “Roof right over our heads”, that is God’s grace, His unmerited favor being manifested to the human family. Let’s read:

Romans 6:23 For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.

John 10:10 The thief cometh not, but for to steal, and to kill, and to destroy: I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly. 

Romans 5:20 More-over the law entered, that the offence might abound. But where sin abounded, grace did much more abound.

When studying the writings of Paul, care must be taken, not to read into his statements, sentiments, which on the surface may not be readily plain to our understanding. For instance, the entrance of God’s written law, did not actually cause sin to abound, in and of itself, because where there is no written law, sin will abound anyway. People drank alcohol, and partied into the wee hours of the morning on South beach, long before there was any ordinance against such activities after 5:00 am. 

What the apostle is referring to, is the knowledge, or consciousness of sin. Therefore, we should be very careful not to insinuate that God’s law is the reason for the proliferation of sin. There was not a “Written” law on earth when Adam and Eve sinned, nor was there any when Cain killed Abel, when the practice of polygamy was started by Lamech, when the antediluvians indulged those incomprehensible deeds of violence, licentiousness, and their moral depravity, which upended God’s grace. Yet sin did still abound. Let’s read:

Genesis 6:1 And it came to pass, when men began to multiply on the face of the earth, and daughters were born unto them, 
2 That the sons of God saw the daughters of men that they were fair; and they took them wives of all which they chose. 
3 And the Lord said, My spirit shall not always strive with man, for that he also is flesh: yet his days shall be an hundred and twenty years. 
5 And God saw that the wickedness of man was great in the earth, and that every imagination of the thoughts of his heart was only evil continually.
8 But Noah found grace in the eyes of the Lord.

Noah and his family were not arbitrarily singled out to be the sole recipients of God’s grace, for as was stated before, grace was made available to all men and women then living. The only difference is that Noah’s family appropriated that which had been abundantly provided for all who would receive it. Noah had a drinking problem, and his sons had the seeds of sin within them, yet they also found grace.

This leads us to the core of our study, for Jacob’s family was a dysfunctional family, with very serious problems, such as idolatry, sibling rivalry, quarrels, violence, and sexual immorality of the darkest hue. Yet they found grace. Let’s read:

Genesis 49:3 Reuben, thou art my firstborn, my might, and the beginning of my strength. 
4 Unstable as water, thou shalt not excel; because thou wentest up to thy father's bed; then defiledst thou it: he went up to my couch. 
5 Simeon and Levi are brethren; instruments of cruelty are in their habitations. 
6 O my soul, come not thou into their secret; unto their assembly, mine honor, be not thou united: for in their anger they slew a man, and in their selfwill they digged down a wall. 
7 Cursed be their anger, for it was fierce; and their wrath, for it was cruel: I will divide them in Jacob, and scatter them in Israel.

The catalogue of Jacob’s sins was long, and glaring too, and included lying repeatedly to his own father, collusion with intent to defraud, conspiracy, telling lies on The Lord Himself, impersonation, polygamy, hatred, favoritism, and the genetic engineering of Laban’s cattle. Now, with all of these sins piled up against him, one would rightly conclude that Jacob had forfeited all claims to God’s grace. 

But as we read further we will discover the premise for our Bible study, “Where sin did abound, grace did much more abound”, because the grace of God toward Jacob and his family was to be manifested in many different ways, to those who did not deserve it in the least. Let’s read:
[1] God’s material blessings: 
Genesis 30:43 And the man increased exceedingly, and had much cattle, and maidservants, and menservants, and camels, and asses.

[2] God’s favor: 
Genesis 32:1 And Jacob went on his way, and the angels of God met him. 
2 And when Jacob saw them, he said, This is God's host: and he called the name of that place Mahanaim.

[3] God’s protection:
Genesis 31:22 And it was told Laban on the third day that Jacob was fled. 
23 And he took his brethren with him, and pursued after him seven days' journey; and they overtook him in the mount Gilead. 
24 And God came to Laban the Syrian in a dream by night, and said unto him, Take heed that thou speak not to Jacob either good or bad. 

[P&P. pp 198] While Jacob was wrestling with the Angel, another heavenly messenger was sent to Esau. In a dream, Esau beheld his brother for twenty years an exile from his father's house; he witnessed his grief at finding his mother dead; he saw him encompassed by the hosts of God. This dream was related by Esau to his soldiers, with the charge not to harm Jacob, for the God of his father was with him.

Question: So how on earth did Jacob find grace?
Answer: He found grace the same way in which our senators, house representatives, political leaders, clergy, and ordinary John Does may find grace, for he confessed his sins, he forsook them, and he also trusted to the merits, and goodness of God for his salvation, and the rest is history, because one day, if we are faithful, we will get to meet Jacob, and most of his family, including Reuben, who was the one described by Jacob as being sexually unstable. Let’s read:

Genesis 32:9 And Jacob said, O God of my father Abraham, and God of my father Isaac, the Lord which saidst unto me, Return unto thy country, and to thy kindred, and I will deal well with thee: 
10 I am not worthy of the least of all the mercies, and of all the truth, which thou hast shewed unto thy servant; for with my staff I passed over this Jordan; and now I am become two bands. 
11 Deliver me, I pray thee, from the hand of my brother, from the hand of Esau: for I fear him, lest he come and smite me, and the mother with the children. 
22 And he rose up that night, and took his two wives, and his two women-servants, and his eleven sons, and passed over the ford Jabbok. 
24 And Jacob was left alone; and there wrestled a man with him until the breaking of the day. 
25 And when he saw that he prevailed not against him, he touched the hollow of his thigh.
26 And he said, Let me go, for the day breaketh. And he said, I will not let thee go, except thou bless me. 
27 And he said unto him, What is thy name? And he said, Jacob. 
28 And he said, Thy name shall be called no more Jacob, but Israel: for as a prince hast thou power with God and with men, and hast prevailed. 
30 And Jacob called the name of the place Peniel: for I have seen God face to face, and my life is preserved.
28 And he said, Thy name shall be called no more Jacob, but Israel: for as a prince hast thou power with God and with men, and hast prevailed.

[Patriarchs & Prophets pp 196>198] As night came on, Jacob sent his family across the ford of the river, while he alone remained behind. He had decided to spend the night in prayer, and he desired to be alone with God. In Him was the patriarch's only hope. Solitary and unprotected, Jacob bowed in deep distress upon the earth. Bitterest of all was the thought that it was his own sin which had brought this peril. With earnest cries and tears he made his prayer before God.

It was Christ, “the Angel of the covenant,” who had revealed Himself to Jacob. Through humiliation, repentance, and self-surrender, this sinful, erring mortal prevailed with the Majesty of heaven. He had fastened his trembling grasp upon the promises of God, and the heart of Infinite Love could not turn away the sinner's plea. 

As an evidence that he had been forgiven, his name was changed from one that was a reminder of his sin, to one that commemorated his victory. “Thy name,” said the Angel, “shall be called no more Jacob, but Israel: for as a prince hast thou power with God and with men, and hast prevailed.”

Jacob had received the blessing for which his soul had longed. His sin as a supplanter and deceiver had been pardoned. The crisis in his life was past. Doubt, perplexity, and remorse had embittered his existence, but now all was changed; and sweet was the peace of reconciliation with God. Jacob no longer feared to meet his brother. God, who had forgiven his sin, could move the heart of Esau also to accept his humiliation and repentance.

In our day, there is seen to be a proliferation of sin, and crimes of all sorts. Like it was with Jacob, there may be collusion with intent to defraud, and there is lying to friends and foes alike, there is polygamy, conspiracy, hatred, favoritism, genetic engineering, and violence of all sorts. But where sin did abound, grace did much more abound, so instead of leaving the inhabitants of this earth to self-destruct, God’s amazing grace is to be offered to all, who like Jacob,  will realize their own unworthiness.

However, it is of critical importance that we follow the steps of Jacob, in finding God’s grace. We are not to wait until our sins are exposed in the public square before we confess to God, for there’s a huge difference between confessing after being caught in the fire, and confessing from a deep sense of our sin. The scrutiny with which the special counsel is examining the many cases before him, only portrays in miniature form the scrutiny with which our sins that are unconfessed will be investigated.

Robert Mueller is using the power of the subpoena to force from unwilling persons, the incriminating evidence; but God doesn’t need any subpoena, for all things are naked and open before Him. In other words, He has a record of not only our emails, text messages, sexting, and other nefarious activities, but He also has the records of those thoughts, and intentions which led to our sinful acts. Let’s read:

Hebrews 4:12 For the word of God is quick, and powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart. 
13 Neither is there any creature that is not manifest in his sight: but all things are naked and opened unto the eyes of him with whom we have to do.

Ecclesiastes 12:14 For God shall bring every work into judgment, with every secret thing, whether it be good, or whether it be evil.

Thus, in harmony with the solemn issues before us, and the intense scrutiny of the heavenly judgement now in session, Christ is making a direct appeal to all who have succumbed to fornication, adultery, or any of the many variations of immorality now on display. If anyone has indulged in adultery secretly, and may have succeeded in hiding it from their own spouse, now is the time to make our move, like old Jacob, in finding God’s grace. 

That secret lover, that only ourselves, and God may know about, those E-mails sent under a different address, as well as any flirting that may have been encouraged; God is saying to us, now is the time to make your move, by confessing, and forsaking sins, lest, like what is taking place before our eyes, we too, be exposed to the light of day. Esau did not find grace, even though it was readily available, for Esau did not confess and forsake his sin. In addition, he is not known to have ever trusted in the merits, or the goodness of God.

Thus, in closing it is in order that we be reminded of the necessary steps in finding grace, for if we follow Jacob’s lead, God will respond, by removing every stain of sin, and guilt from us, and will grant eternal life to all who are thus exercised. Let’s read:

2nd Chronicles 7:14 If my people, which are called by my name, shall humble themselves, and pray, and seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways; then will I hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin, and will heal their land. 
15 Now mine eyes shall be open, and mine ears attent unto the prayer that is made in this place.

                       May God add His blessing to the application, and study of His word. 
                                                                      God Bless!