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Matthew 16:13-15 When Jesus came into the coasts of Caesarea Philippi, he asked his disciples, saying, Whom do men say that I the Son of man am? (14) And they said, Some say that thou art John the Baptist: some, Elias; and others, Jeremias, or one of the prophets. (15) He saith unto them, But whom say ye that I am? (KJV)
If you go into any city and take the time to look into a phone book under the title of churches you will find pages and pages of different so called faiths and denominations. In others words, when posed with the same question we see in the above verses mankind is still rendering many different opinions on who this Jesus of Nazareth was and what to call this man. In fact some two thousand plus years ago some were trying to associate him with the Baptist, which being the fact that he didn’t acknowledge himself to be one back then I don’t know why so many today are still trying to pin that label on him. We do see him acknowledging himself as the Son of man, having partaken of flesh and blood, but as we are about to see, something else will come into play and expand the field so to speak. Matthew 16:16-18 And Simon Peter answered and said, Thou art the Christ, the Son of the living God. (17) And Jesus answered and said unto him, Blessed art thou, Simon Barjona: for flesh and blood hath not revealed it unto thee, but my Father which is in heaven. (18) And I say also unto thee, That thou art Peter, and upon this rock I will build my church; and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it. (KJV) Christ, the Son of the living God, not God as many claim, but His Son. The fact that God Himself is a Spirit it would only be fitting that His Son, Christ, is of that realm also. Not only was this Jesus born of the flesh but he was also reborn of the Spirit and is Spirit also; the same Spirit of Christ that led this man Jesus of Nazareth is the same Spirit that is abiding in you and what should be leading you as well. This rock foundation is spiritual, and the only foundation that will withstand and prevail against the gates of hell. It is this Spirit of Christ within the believer that allows each of us to be a part of the family of God so that we too can receive the adoption of Sons. We see our Lord acknowledging the two births again, that which is born of flesh is flesh, Jesus of Nazareth, and that which is born of Spirit is Spirit, Christ, which if any man has not His Spirit he is not of God, which now makes it a complete package, Jesus Christ the Son of the living God. 1 Corinthians 10:2-5 And were all baptized unto Moses in the cloud and in the sea; (3) And did all eat the same spiritual meat; (4) And did all drink the same spiritual drink: for they drank of that spiritual Rock that followed them: and that Rock was Christ. (5) But with many of them God was not well pleased: for they were overthrown in the wilderness. (KJV) Even in the Old Testament we see the Son of God, Christ, alive and well, His Spirit working among the people. Back then it was providing water that fed the flesh, today it provides us living spiritual water that quenches our spiritual thirst. This is the only name, the rock solid name of the Son of God that our Father acknowledges as one of His and the only name that you can get your prayers through to our Father. Though many claim that Christ was born in Bethlehem, it was Jesus the son of man that was born, Christ always was and always will be, or as He put it I AM. Again that which is born of flesh is flesh, and that which is born of Spirit is Spirit; you must be born again with this Spirit of Christ or you cannot see the kingdom of God. Colossians 1:26-29 Even the mystery which hath been hid from ages and from generations, but now is made manifest to his saints: (27) To whom God would make known what is the riches of the glory of this mystery among the Gentiles; which is Christ in you, the hope of glory: (28) Whom we preach, warning every man, and teaching every man in all wisdom; that we may present every man perfect in Christ Jesus: (29) Whereunto I also labour, striving according to his working, which worketh in me mightily. (KJV) Paul described this revelation of Christ as a mystery, something hid and kept secret but now made manifest. To those that operate solely in the realm of the flesh this continues to be a mystery. And like we saw with the question asked in Matthew 16:13-15, many are still answering this question according to popular opinion and not by a personal revelation and relationship with God in the Spirit. So no matter what man thinks or how many labels and titles they try to put on Him, His word is quite specific on how His plan of salvation works and who it is that is working in His people. So people, before you jump on these bandwagons of popular beliefs and doctrines take the time in the word of God and prayer, and see for yourself who the Lord truly is and by what name does He go by and acknowledges Himself to be. The only teaching and the only way to present the believer perfect, mature in all wisdom, will only be accomplished by the wisdom of God through the knowledge of His Son, Jesus Christ. 1 Timothy 3:16 And without controversy great is the mystery of godliness: God was manifest in the flesh, justified in the Spirit, seen of angels, preached unto the Gentiles, believed on in the world, received up into glory. (KJV) This is a great mystery and continues to be because it is hid to the carnal man and his way of thinking, and only revealed to the spiritual man and those that desire to worship God in spirit and in truth. God truly was manifest in the flesh, His plan of salvation and the miracles that He worked through Jesus of Nazareth were only accomplished by the Spirit of Christ within Him and His willingness and obedience to follow that leading. As this Jesus Christ is known also as the Son of God, so are you if you continue your relationship with the Father by basing your walk on what the Spirit of Christ working within you dictates and not by the box mankind tries to stick Him in and label Him with. It takes one to know one; so if you want to resemble your Father in heaven then you need to follow the example of the Son and the Spirit of Him, Christ, if you wish to receive the reward of inheritance. We will continue with this topic of the Son of God, so keep the faith grounded and settled within you, and be not moved away from the hope of the gospel. God bless and have a prosperous day in Christ Jesus our Lord. John 14:13-15 And whatsoever ye shall ask in my name, that will I do, that the Father may be glorified in the Son. (14) If ye shall ask any thing in my name, I will do it. If ye love me, keep my commandments. (KJV)
When looking at the definition of the word commandments, it refers to an order or a command, as well as an authoritative prescription. Being that the Lord is referred to as a physician as well, would it not be beneficial for us to follow His prescription? There is a saying that he who is his own doctor has a fool for a patient. So will you follow the doctor’s orders, especially those of someone who walked victoriously while on this earth, or will you end up bedridden and weak? 1 John 3:22-23 And whatsoever we ask, we receive of him, because we keep his commandments, and do those things that are pleasing in his sight. (23) And this is his commandment, That we should believe on the name of his Son Jesus Christ, and love one another, as he gave us commandment. (KJV) The Son God has a name, a full name actually, and though at times some have referred to the name of Christ as just a title, it is actually the name of a real person, have you met Him? When I think of my own name, my first name is a common one. When mentioning the rest of my name, it then identifies me with a certain family lineage, making it complete. Dialing our prayers and supplications through Jesus Christ is like making a call; His complete name is the area code that directs us to the throne. Try dialing a number on your phone and leaving part of it out, you won’t get through. Is that the kind of prayer life you desire, I think not. Some claim, as well as countless books and tapes that the power is in the name of Jesus. What does the Word say? 1 Corinthians 1:23-24 But we preach Christ crucified, unto the Jews a stumblingblock, and unto the Greeks foolishness; (24) But unto them which are called, both Jews and Greeks, Christ the power of God, and the wisdom of God. (KJV) Romans 1:16-17 For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ: for it is the power of God unto salvation to every one that believeth; to the Jew first, and also to the Greek. (17) For therein is the righteousness of God revealed from faith to faith: as it is written, The just shall live by faith. (KJV) Ever wonder why we are called Christians? Have you ever noticed it is the spirit of antichrist, not anti Jesus, anti God or antifreeze? With all the power and authority we have in that name, why would you leave it out of your prayers? Acts 4:10-12 Be it known unto you all, and to all the people of Israel, that by the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, whom ye crucified, whom God raised from the dead, even by him doth this man stand here before you whole. (11) This is the stone which was set at nought of you builders, which is become the head of the corner. (12) Neither is there salvation in any other: for there is none other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved. (KJV) Have you ever walked along and suddenly stumbled? The first thing you do is look back to see what it is you stumbled on, which obviously you didn’t see the first time. The word of God tells us specifically what many are stumbling on; and the stone that the Lord refers to is spiritual in nature, which is why many continue to stumble and fall. 1 Peter 2:4-5 To whom coming, as unto a living stone, disallowed indeed of men, but chosen of God, and precious, (5) Ye also, as lively stones, are built up a spiritual house, an holy priesthood, to offer up spiritual sacrifices, acceptable to God by Jesus Christ. (KJV) Father considers this stone precious in His sight, and yet the most important stone for building a strong foundation, many times is discarded and not used. 1 Peter 2:6-8 Wherefore also it is contained in the scripture, Behold, I lay in Sion a chief corner stone, elect, precious: and he that believeth on him shall not be confounded. (7) Unto you therefore which believe he is precious: but unto them which be disobedient, the stone which the builders disallowed, the same is made the head of the corner, (8) And a stone of stumbling, and a rock of offence, even to them which stumble at the word, being disobedient: whereunto also they were appointed. (KJV) How strong of a case are you building for your salvation? Is there enough evidence to convict you of being a Christian, Christ like, or are you building a case based on circumstantial man made doctrines? Matthew 10:32-33 Whosoever therefore shall confess me before men, him will I confess also before my Father which is in heaven. (33) But whosoever shall deny me before men, him will I also deny before my Father which is in heaven. (KJV) You wouldn’t want your name left out of the Lamb’s book of life; why would someone leave His name out as well, especially when He is the author and finisher of it. God bless and have a prosperous day in Christ Jesus our Lord. Matthew 7:24-27 Therefore whosoever heareth these sayings of mine, and doeth them, I will liken him unto a wise man, which built his house upon a rock: (25) And the rain descended, and the floods came, and the winds blew, and beat upon that house; and it fell not: for it was founded upon a rock. (26) And every one that heareth these sayings of mine, and doeth them not, shall be likened unto a foolish man, which built his house upon the sand: (27) And the rain descended, and the floods came, and the winds blew, and beat upon that house; and it fell: and great was the fall of it. (KJV)
We have talked before about prophesying, which simply means to speak under the inspiration of, that being inspired by the Holy Spirit. Just before the above verses we are warned of many who were not inspired and speaking in line with the Spirit, who end up deceived and fall short of the eternal reward God had intended for them. God sent us a wise man, that being Jesus of Nazareth, who was willing to speak words that were Spiritual and brought life to the believers, having built His house on a rock solid foundation. Knowing what that foundation is for yourself is vital if you wish to be used of God and speak His words which will be Spiritual and bring forth life as well, and allow you access into His eternal realm. Ephesians 2:19-22 Now therefore ye are no more strangers and foreigners, but fellowcitizens with the saints, and of the household of God; (20) And are built upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Jesus Christ himself being the chief corner stone; (21) In whom all the building fitly framed together groweth unto an holy temple in the Lord: (22) In whom ye also are builded together for an habitation of God through the Spirit. (KJV) Christ is that rock, that rock solid foundation that is lacking with many who are still building their foundation on sand, that being man’s doctrines and false interpretations of the gospel. Many talk of Jesus the man but are oblivious to Christ the Son of God who was within Him, the Spirit that was leading and guiding Him in truth. After all, He did quite well for Himself having been seated at the right hand of God, and is now ready to reveal Himself to you personally and show you how you too can walk the path that leads to eternal life. Is your foundation built on this Rock, or is it more of a crock, something manmade and not acknowledged by God? 2 Timothy 2:19 Nevertheless the foundation of God standeth sure, having this seal, The Lord knoweth them that are his. And, Let every one that nameth the name of Christ depart from iniquity. (KJV) Ever see products that have a seal on them? One in particular that comes to mind is the real seal; this is a seal that marks them as genuine, the real deal. We see again that the writer Paul here was inspired to speak concerning the foundation of God, and that it is in the name of Christ that we are set free and depart from iniquity. We need to rightly divide the word of truth; so as you go through your Bible keep in mind the name of Christ and how important it is that you are established on this rock solid foundation. John 17:1-3 These words spake Jesus, and lifted up his eyes to heaven, and said, Father, the hour is come; glorify thy Son, that thy Son also may glorify thee: (2) As thou hast given him power over all flesh, that he should give eternal life to as many as thou hast given him. (3) And this is life eternal, that they might know thee the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom thou hast sent. (KJV) How about looking at the verses and ask, what did this man Jesus of Nazareth call Himself? He definitely was an inspirational speaker and still is; seated at the right hand of God and delivering His message of faith and love to His church. So if this is the Rock that He was established on, and this is the name He acknowledged as being His, how can I go wrong? Mark 9:38-41 And John answered him, saying, Master, we saw one casting out devils in thy name, and he followeth not us: and we forbad him, because he followeth not us. (39) But Jesus said, Forbid him not: for there is no man which shall do a miracle in my name, that can lightly speak evil of me. (40) For he that is not against us is on our part. (41) For whosoever shall give you a cup of water to drink in my name, because ye belong to Christ, verily I say unto you, he shall not lose his reward. (KJV) That’s comforting to know, that if I know His name and belong to Him, being a part of the family in Christ, then I will not lose my reward. Remember in Matthew 7:21-23, many had claimed to be speaking on the Lord’s behalf but He replied depart from me I never knew you. Obviously they didn’t know His name therefore He didn’t know their name either, which meant that they must have built their foundation on something other than the Rock. While today I hear many preach and teach in the name of Jesus, I see in Mark that those that know the name of Christ and teach in that name will not be turned away from the gates of heaven but will be welcomed in with open arms. Do you know the name that will get you access and keep you established on the Rock, or are you building on the sand where it is just a matter of time before the house gets taken down stream? Acts 4:10-13 Be it known unto you all, and to all the people of Israel, that by the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, whom ye crucified, whom God raised from the dead, even by him doth this man stand here before you whole. (11) This is the stone which was set at nought of you builders, which is become the head of the corner. (12) Neither is there salvation in any other: for there is none other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved. (13) Now when they saw the boldness of Peter and John, and perceived that they were unlearned and ignorant men, they marvelled; and they took knowledge of them, that they had been with Jesus. (KJV) Remember that name that was revealed to Peter in Matthew 16:16-18? It was the rock solid revelation that came from God Himself and inspired Peter, that others marveled at the boldness and knowledge he received from that revelation. There is no other name given under heaven; there is no other foundation that you can lay than that which is laid, Jesus Christ, not just Jesus but the complete name Jesus Christ. Which is why people who pray in the name of Jesus and leave out Christ are someday going to find out that their name may be left off of His heavenly register as well. If we deny Him (Christ), then He will deny us also. John 4:23-26 But the hour cometh, and now is, when the true worshippers shall worship the Father in spirit and in truth: for the Father seeketh such to worship him. (24) God is a Spirit: and they that worship him must worship him in spirit and in truth. (25) The woman saith unto him, I know that Messias cometh, which is called Christ: when he is come, he will tell us all things. (26) Jesus saith unto her, I that speak unto thee am he. (KJV) Who is speaking to you and where are you seeking inspiration from? If it is Christ then you are well established, while anyone else will not hold up. Are you a ‘can do’ person? Then you will know how to get it accomplished. Philippians 4:13 I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me. (KJV) God bless dearly loved and have a prosperous day in Christ Jesus our Lord. II John 1:7-9 For many deceivers are entered into the world, who confess not that Jesus Christ is come in the flesh. This is a deceiver and an antichrist. 8 Look to yourselves, that we lose not those things which we have wrought, but that we receive a full reward. 9 Whosoever transgresses, and abides not in the doctrine of Christ, hath not God. He that abides in the doctrine of Christ, he hath both the Father and the Son. (KJV)
When asked about this mystery one has to realize that we are talking about a spiritual mystery. As we see above if you desire to receive a full reward you need to preach a complete doctrine that includes Christ. In fact we see that by leaving Christ out of the equation, we are robbing ourselves and others of the only doctrine God gives credence to. By leaving the Son out, like many are doing today, you take God out also; and it doesn’t leave much does it? Matthew 11:25-27 At that time Jesus answered and said, I thank thee, O Father, Lord of heaven and earth, because thou hast hid these things from the wise and prudent, and hast revealed them unto babes. 26 Even so, Father: for so it seemed good in thy sight. 27 All things are delivered unto me of my Father: and no man knows the Son, but the Father; neither knows any man the Father, save the Son, and he to whomsoever the Son will reveal him. (KJV) By not knowing the mystery of Christ, you are not going to know who God is either. God reveals Himself to people He can trust with Spiritual things, which means you need to get yourself in line with Him and prove yourself trustworthy. Luke 16:10-12 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. 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? (KJV) Today we have many hirelings preaching a watered down perversion of the gospel based more on a love of money than a love for our Lord. These larger than life do gooders are more concerned with earthly treasures than the one our Lord desires to reveal to His people, which is robbery to say the least. II John 1:9-11 Whosoever transgresses, and abides not in the doctrine of Christ, hath not God. He that abides in the doctrine of Christ, he hath both the Father and the Son. 10 If there come any unto you, and bring not this doctrine, receive him not into your house, neither bid him God speed: 11 For he that bids him God speed is partaker of his evil deeds. (KJV) My prayer is that you learn to exercise your spiritual senses more than your carnal ones, and make your decisions based on what our Lord is revealing and not just settling for what many others claim is of God. Acts 4:10-12 Be it known unto you all, and to all the people of Israel, that by the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, whom ye crucified, whom God raised from the dead, even by him doth this man stand here before you whole. 11 This is the stone which was set at naught of you builders, which is become the head of the corner. 12 Neither is there salvation in any other: for there is none other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved. (KJV) From what I am seeing, when leaving Christ out of the teaching we are taking a lot off the table. Could it be that is why the enemy is tagged as being a spirit of antichrist? God bless dearly loved, and have a prosperous day in Christ Jesus our Lord. 1 Corinthians 15:48-50 As is the earthy, such are they also that are earthy: and as is the heavenly, such are they also that are heavenly. 49 And as we have borne the image of the earthy, we shall also bear the image of the heavenly. 50 Now this I say, brethren, that flesh and blood cannot inherit the kingdom of God; neither doth corruption inherit incorruption. (KJV)
The name of Jesus Christ is the complete name that accurately gives a full account of not only the earthly man Jesus, but the second man from above which is Christ. By giving an accurate and complete account of Jesus Christ it will allow you to show up in front of our Father in heaven with more than just a flesh and blood resume concerning salvation. 2 Corinthians 5:16-18 Wherefore henceforth know we no man after the flesh: yea, though we have known Christ after the flesh, yet now henceforth know we him no more. 17 Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold all things are become new. 18 And all things are of God, who hath reconciled us to himself by Jesus Christ, and hath given to us the ministry of reconciliation; (KJV) In the past, before your conversion in Christ, you were limited in your interpretation and understanding of who the Son is. Now that you are complete in Christ you are no longer relying on a flesh and blood interpretation, but you are getting your answer first hand from the Father through the Son. Romans 8:14-16 For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, they are the sons of God. 15 For ye have not received the spirit of bondage again to fear; but ye have received the Spirit of adoption, whereby we cry, Abba, Father. 16 The Spirit itself bears witness with our spirit, that we are the children of God: (KJV) You are considered a child of God and a member of His family because of the Spirit, no longer relying on the flesh or the outward man. So it takes two, His Spirit bearing witness to ours, and reminding us who we are in Christ and the place He would have us in His body of believers. I John 5:5-6 Who is he that overcomes the world, but he that believeth that Jesus is the Son of God? 6 This is he that came by water and blood, even Jesus Christ; not by water only, but by water and blood. And it is the Spirit that bears witness, because the Spirit is truth. (KJV) This man Jesus of Nazareth was a Son of God by faith in what the Spirit of Christ was witnessing to Him, showing Him what was taking place in the heavenly realm. You are considered a Son of God when you put more faith in what His Son is saying and revealing to you, and less in the outward vision of the Son which man has settled for. Colossians 2:8-10 Beware lest any man spoil you through philosophy and vain deceit, after the tradition of men, after the rudiments of the world, and not after Christ. 9 For in him dwells all the fullness of the Godhead bodily. 10 And ye are complete in him, which is the head of all principality and power: (KJV) Do you desire to move ahead in your walk today? Why not go to the head of the Church and He will show you how to complete your spiritual mission. Again we see that Christ has to be involved in order for you to be complete. John 4:24-26 God is a Spirit: and they that worship him must worship him in spirit and in truth. 25 The woman saith unto him, I know that Messiah cometh, which is called Christ: when he is come, he will tell us all things. 26 Jesus saith unto her, I that speak unto thee am he. (KJV) If this is what our Lord said is His name, shouldn’t that be good enough for you? God bless dearly loved, and have a prosperous day in Christ Jesus our Lord. 1 Corinthians 15:48-50 As is the earthy, such are they also that are earthy: and as is the heavenly, such are they also that are heavenly. 49 And as we have borne the image of the earthy, we shall also bear the image of the heavenly. 50 Now this I say, brethren, that flesh and blood cannot inherit the kingdom of God; neither doth corruption inherit incorruption. (KJV)
The Lord was sent our way to show us who He is and what name He answers to. The name Jesus Christ was given for a reason and because we know that all scripture is inspired by God we can be perfect and thoroughly furnished unto all good works. The name of Jesus describes the earthly or likeness, while the complete name of Christ allows us to access the image or inner workings of the Spirit. Is it any wonder when listening to many sermons today why they just teach in the name of Jesus and leave out Christ? 1 Corinthians 1:23-24 But we preach Christ crucified, unto the Jews a stumbling block, and unto the Greeks foolishness; 24 But unto them which are called, both Jews and Greeks, Christ the power of God, and the wisdom of God. (KJV) I have watched over the years and seen many in the church talk about backsliding Christians. It seems many are born again and experience a new life for a season, but then turn back again to the realm of the flesh seeking peace. Well, when leaving Christ out of the equation you leave the power of God out as well, which is why many are weak. Remember it is the spirit that is willing to move forward, it’s the flesh that is weak and will look back instead of ahead. Matthew 16:18-20 And I say also unto thee, that thou art Peter, and upon this rock I will build my church; and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it. 19 And I will give unto thee the keys of the kingdom of heaven: and whatsoever thou shall bind on earth shall be bound in heaven: and whatsoever thou shall loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven. 20 Then charged he his disciples that they should tell no man that he was Jesus the Christ. (KJV) The revelation of Christ is the rock that is revealed to God’s people, and is the reason why they are able to endure to the end. The reason our Lord charged his disciples not to tell others who He was is because they wouldn’t be able to understand this revelation until they were born again. This is something that needs to be revealed to you personally through the Spirit. I John 4:3-5 And every spirit that confesses not that Jesus Christ is come in the flesh is not of God: and this is that spirit of antichrist, whereof ye have heard that it should come; and even now already is it in the world. 4 Ye are of God, little children, and have overcome them: because greater is he that is in you, than he that is in the world. 5 They are of the world: therefore speak they of the world, and the world hears them. (KJV) Those that don’t understand who Christ is are just like the world, living in the partial or veiled realm of the flesh. They are unable to give a complete account from a greater source than themselves. These are the flesh and blood resumes that will be turned away at the door, thus the title antichrist is pinned on them. Ephesians 2:19-22 Now therefore ye are no more strangers and foreigners, but fellow citizens with the saints, and of the household of God; 20 And are built upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Jesus Christ himself being the chief corner stone; 21 In whom all the building fitly framed together grows unto an holy temple in the Lord: 22 In whom ye also are built together for a habitation of God through the Spirit. (KJV) As a builder you need to follow a blueprint if the building is going to be up to code, and as you see, Jesus Christ has to be the chief corner stone if the building is going to be approved and pass inspection. God bless dearly loved, and have a prosperous day in Christ Jesus our Lord. 1 Corinthians 15:47-50 The first man is of the earth, earthy: the second man is the Lord from heaven. 48 As is the earthy, such are they also that are earthy: and as is the heavenly, such are they also that are heavenly. 49 And as we have borne the image of the earthy, we shall also bear the image of the heavenly. 50 Now this I say, brethren, that flesh and blood cannot inherit the kingdom of God; neither doth corruption inherit incorruption. (KJV)
The name Jesus Christ says so much more than just what mans’ earthly carnal mind thinks. When I hear so many preach and teach in the name of Jesus and leave out Christ it clearly tells me that these people have not gone beyond this earthly realm for their information. In fact I have seen some ministries as well as ministers claim Jesus is Lord leaving out the second man from heaven. These organizations are still in the dark and are completely blind to the truth. Romans 1:21-23 Because that, when they knew God, they glorified him not as God, neither were thankful; but became vain in their imaginations, and their foolish heart was darkened. 22 Professing themselves to be wise, they became fools, 23 And changed the glory of the incorruptible God into an image made like to corruptible man, and to birds, and four footed beasts, and creeping things. (KJV) Many can look back at the Old Testament and see where God’s people changed His glory into a golden calf. The children of Israel encountered cultures that worshiped bird like images and other creeping things. Today mankind in his limited understanding has changed the glory of God into a corruptible man again, claiming Jesus was God. However, the Bible is specific in the fact that if any man has not the spirit of Christ then they have nothing to do with God. Jesus was a man with a lower nature that had to rely on the second man from heaven, which is Christ, or He would not have been able to live a life without sin. So we clearly see history has a tendency to repeat itself all over again when man doesn’t understand who Christ is. Hebrews 2:9-10 But we see Jesus, who was made a little lower than the angels for the suffering of death, crowned with glory and honor; that he by the grace of God should taste death for every man. 10 For it became him, for whom are all things, and by whom are all things, in bringing many sons unto glory, to make the captain of their salvation perfect through sufferings. (KJV) The Bible is quite specific to point out that Jesus was a created being, just like you and I. God always is, always was, and always will be around. The Son of God who was sent for our salvation took up residence in this man which then made Him complete. Understanding who the Son is will show you who God is and how to worship Him in Spirit and in truth. 1 Timothy 3:16 And without controversy great is the mystery of godliness: God was manifest in the flesh, justified in the Spirit, seen of angels, preached unto the Gentiles, believed on in the world, received up into glory. (KJV) It’s a mystery to those that are limited to the earthly understanding of how God’s plan of salvation was manifest through the man Jesus of Nazareth who was justified by the Spirit of Christ within Him. James 1:13-14 Let no man say when he is tempted, I am tempted of God: for God cannot be tempted with evil, neither tempted he any man: 14 But every man is tempted, when he is drawn away of his own lust, and enticed. (KJV) In closing today, if Jesus had been God then how could he have been tempted in every manner like we are? The Bible is specific that he endured the same temptations as we do. God bless dearly loved, and have a prosperous day in Christ Jesus our Lord. 1 Corinthians 15:48-50 As is the earthy, such are they also that are earthy: and as is the heavenly, such are they also that are heavenly. 49 And as we have borne the image of the earthy, we shall also bear the image of the heavenly. 50 Now this I say, brethren, that flesh and blood cannot inherit the kingdom of God; neither doth corruption inherit incorruption. (KJV)
We talked last week about Matthew 7:21-23 where many claimed to be of God, yet our Lord said that He never knew them. Many have been blinded by their carnal vision, and have never allowed themselves to be enlightened to the true light that would show them how to access the realm of the Spirit. 2 Corinthians 4:3-4 But if our gospel be hid, it is hid to them that are lost: 4 In whom the god of this world hath blinded the minds of them which believe not, lest the light of the glorious gospel of Christ, who is the image of God, should shine unto them. (KJV) Those that limit themselves to a flesh and blood understanding of our Lord are considered blind to the truth. Keep in mind this is a spiritual blindness brought on by the fact that they never came to a spiritual understanding of who Christ the Son of God is. These are people that could explain a lot about a man named Jesus and give an account of the Son of Man, but so few today can give the complete answer to who is the Son of God within us. 2 Corinthians 4:5-6 For we preach not ourselves, but Christ Jesus the Lord; and ourselves your servants for Jesus' sake. 6 For God, who commanded the light to shine out of darkness, hath shined in our hearts, to give the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ. (KJV) You can show a person to someone and keep the head hidden or veiled and they will be in the dark as to who that person really is; however, once you reveal the face it then tells you who that person is. Are you facing facts today which go beyond the outward and into the inward to get a complete understanding of our Lord and the name He goes by? Take notice that the name of Jesus Christ accurately describes the Son of man as well as the Son of God. 2 Corinthians 3:14-15 But their minds were blinded: for until this day remained the same veil untaken away in the reading of the Old Testament; which veil is done away in Christ. 15 But even unto this day, when Moses is read, the veil is upon their heart. (KJV) So we’re talking about a spiritual veil which keeps Spiritual things covered up and concealed until taken out of the way. Many today are still veiled from the truth because they only pray in the name of Jesus, but leave out the most important part of the equation which is Christ. As I look around today and see so many false prophets and phony religions being peddled as the truth I see the enemy has definitely pulled the wool over the eyes of many who profess to know God, but continue to deny the Son. Colossians 3:9-11 Lie not one to another, seeing that ye have put off the old man with his deeds; 10 And have put on the new man, which is renewed in knowledge after the image of him that created him: 11 Where there is neither Greek nor Jew, circumcision nor uncircumcision, Barbarian, Scythian, bond nor free: but Christ is all, and in all. (KJV) When you get rid of the blinders, or the veil of the flesh you see how to get out of that carnal ditch you are in, and truly see who the new man really is. You get to renew your mind daily with the knowledge from above because you are accessing the Son who is seated above in a heavenly place. The plan of salvation really is very simple, but it only works when you include the Son of God in the equation. God bless dearly loved, and have a prosperous day in Christ Jesus our Lord. 1 Corinthians 15:45-47 And so it is written, the first man Adam was made a living soul; the last Adam was made a quickening spirit. 46 Howbeit that was not first which is spiritual, but that which is natural; and afterward that which is spiritual. 47 The first man is of the earth, earthy: the second man is the Lord from heaven. (KJV)
Continuing on in the name of Jesus Christ and the importance of that name which accurately describes and lays out the plan of salvation; being born of the water (referring to the outward carnal man) and then being born again by the Spirit (which is Christ in you your only hope of glory). The first man Adam fell short, falling into the wiles of the devil which resulted in sin and separation from God. So to combat this God sent His Son from heaven so that we could have power to overcome the enemy. This Son provided us with weapons of warfare so that we can see beyond the limited realm of the flesh and into the unlimited realm of the Spirit where all things are now possible to those that believe. 1 Corinthians 15:48-50 As is the earthy, such are they also that are earthy: and as is the heavenly, such are they also that are heavenly. 49 And as we have borne the image of the earthy, we shall also bear the image of the heavenly. 50 Now this I say, brethren, that flesh and blood cannot inherit the kingdom of God; neither doth corruption inherit incorruption. (KJV) The image refers to the inward man or the heavenly one, that being Christ. We need to show up in front of our Father some day with more than just a flesh and blood resume; you need someone else working on your behalf if you truly intend to inherit eternal life. It is vital that you bear the image; and today is a good time for it to manifest in the form of the fruit of the Spirit, something that can only manifest in the spirit. Ephesians 4:17-20 This I say therefore, and testify in the Lord, that ye henceforth walk not as other Gentiles walk, in the vanity of their mind, 18 Having the understanding darkened, being alienated from the life of God through the ignorance that is in them, because of the blindness of their heart: 19 Who being past feeling have given themselves over unto lasciviousness, to work all uncleanness with greediness. 20 But ye have not so learned Christ; (KJV) Those that are in the flesh and blood realm are the ones that blindly follow others into a place where the reality of salvation is ditched. They remain in ignorance because they have not learned who Christ is, settling instead for only an outward understanding. Ephesians 4:21-24 If so be that ye have heard him, and have been taught by him, as the truth is in Jesus: 22 That ye put off concerning the former conversation the old man, which is corrupt according to the deceitful lusts; 23 And be renewed in the spirit of your mind; 24 And that ye put on the new man, which after God is created in righteousness and true holiness. (KJV) As we see the truth was in Jesus, who was the first born again man, choosing to be led by the Spirit of Christ within Him. This was a man who demonstrated how to walk in a newness of life by letting the new man have more of an influence on Him than the old flesh and blood one. This illustrates what our Lord meant by flesh and blood only will not be able to inherit the kingdom of God. Simply put there had better be a new man showing up on your behalf come the Day of Judgment and that new man is Christ who is seated today at the right hand of the Father mediating a path for you to walk in. God bless dearly loved, and have a prosperous day in Christ Jesus our Lord. Matthew 10:32-33 Whosoever therefore shall confess me before men, him will I confess also before my Father which is in heaven. 33 But whosoever shall deny me before men, him will I also deny before my Father which is in heaven. (KJV)
Our Lord came to explain and demonstrate the plan of salvation to mankind, giving us God’s terms and conditions for peace. He explains that your confession will need to go beyond just the carnal realm and into a deeper spiritual understanding in order to be giving an accurate account of who He really is. I John 2:21-23 I have not written unto you because ye know not the truth, but because ye know it, and that no lie is of the truth. 22 Who is a liar but he that denies that Jesus is the Christ? He is antichrist that denies the Father and the Son. 23 Whosoever denies the Son, the same hath not the Father: (but) he that acknowledges the Son hath the Father also. (KJV) All this week we have been looking at the name of Jesus Christ which accurately describes the two births required to access heaven, one after the flesh and one in the Spirit. We see a name revealed through the Spirit which is Christ the Son of the living God that brings life to His church. We see that leaving Christ out of equation leaves us out; which is why the enemy is described as antichrist and not antijesus. John 20:30-31 And many other signs truly did Jesus in the presence of his disciples, which are not written in this book: 31 But these are written, that ye might believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God; and that believing ye might have life through his name. (KJV) Jesus was not only the Son of man, but the Son of God is who was abiding in Him, and in you also. Christ is the unseen man which can only be revealed through the Spirit so that you can have life and have it in abundance. Luke 24:44-47 And he said unto them, these are the words which I spoke unto you, while I was yet with you, that all things must be fulfilled, which were written in the Law of Moses, and in the prophets, and in the psalms, concerning me. 45 Then opened he their understanding, that they might understand the scriptures, 46 And said unto them, Thus it is written, and thus it behooved Christ to suffer and to rise from the dead the third day: 47 And that repentance and remission of sins should be preached in his name among all nations, beginning at Jerusalem. (KJV) We see our Lord giving a complete answer to whom the ‘me’ in these verses is, and we see it involves Christ. So if someone is denying Him, then they must be leaving Christ out of their teachings and not preaching the name He said should be preached in. John 4:23-26 But the hour cometh and now is, when the true worshippers shall worship the Father in spirit and in truth: for the Father seeks such to worship him. 24 God is a Spirit: and they that worship him must worship him in spirit and in truth. 25 The woman saith unto him, I know that Messiah cometh, which is called Christ: when he is come, he will tell us all things. 26 Jesus saith unto her, I that speak unto thee am he. (KJV) Do you desire to be a true worshipper and not a pretender? Don’t live a life of denial thinking that you know God, only to find out in the end that someone was missing from the equation. God is a Spirit, so it is fitting to say, so is His Son. The name of Christ gives us a complete and accurate account of salvation so that we can hear ‘well done good and faithful servant’ instead of ‘depart from me, I never knew you’. Dearly loved, God bless and have a prosperous day in Christ Jesus our Lord. |
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