Be pleasing to God. Live His Way. Find Peace and Joy in Him.
His Way is found in His Word, line by line, chapter by chapter. Jesus is the Living Word.
John 1:14 KJV And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us, (and we beheld His glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father,) full of grace and truth.
Jesus is the ONLY One who was born through woman, through the bag of waters AND lived perfectly in service to God. He showed us the Way, He IS the Way. We all may try our best, but we fall short of His perfect obedience and love. He is the only one who could offer the perfect love sacrifice of The Lamb, whose Precious Blood covers the doorposts of our minds and forces evil to Passover us.
Exodus 12:5-14 KJV 5 Your lamb shall be without blemish, a male of the first year: ye shall take it out from the sheep, or from the goats: 6 And ye shall keep it up until the fourteenth day of the same month: and the whole assembly of the congregation of Israel shall kill it in the evening. 7 And they shall take of the blood, and strike it on the two side posts and on the upper door post of the houses, wherein they shall eat it. 8 And they shall eat the flesh in that night, roast with fire, and unleavened bread; and with bitter herbs they shall eat it. 9 Eat not of it raw, nor sodden at all with water, but roast with fire; his head with his legs, and with the purtenance thereof. 10 And ye shall let nothing of it remain until the morning; and that which remaineth of it until the morning ye shall burn with fire. 11 And thus shall ye eat it; with your loins girded , your shoes on your feet, and your staff in your hand; and ye shall eat it in haste: it is the LORD'S passover. 12 For I will pass through the land of Egypt this night, and will smite all the firstborn in the land of Egypt, both man and beast; and against all the gods of Egypt I will execute judgment: I am the LORD. 13 And the blood shall be to you for a token upon the houses where ye are: and when I see the blood, I will pass over you, and the plague shall not be upon you to destroy you, when I smite the land of Egypt. 14 And this day shall be unto you for a memorial; and ye shall keep it a feast to the LORD throughout your generations; ye shall keep it a feast by an ordinance for ever.
Hebrews 10:1-14 KJV 1 For the law having a shadow of good things to come , and not the very image of the things, can never with those sacrifices which they offered year by year continually make the comers thereunto perfect . 2 For then would they not have ceased to be offered ? because that the worshippers once purged should have had no more conscience of sins. 3 But in those sacrifices there is a remembrance again made of sins every year. 4 For it is not possible that the blood of bulls and of goats should take away sins. 5 Wherefore when he cometh into the world, he saith , Sacrifice and offering thou wouldest not, but a body hast thou prepared me: 6 In burnt offerings and sacrifices for sin thou hast had no pleasure . 7 Then said I, Lo, I come (in the volume of the book it is written of me,) to do thy will, O God. 8 Above when he said, Sacrifice and offering and burnt offerings and offering for sin thou wouldest not, neither hadst pleasure therein; which are offered by the law; 9 Then said he, Lo, I come to do thy will, O God. He taketh away the first, that he may establish the second. 10 By the which will we are sanctified through the offering of the body of Jesus Christ once for all. 11 And every priest standeth daily ministering and offering oftentimes the same sacrifices, which can never take away sins: 12 But this man, after he had offered one sacrifice for sins for ever, sat down on the right hand of God; 13 From henceforth expecting till his enemies be made his footstool . 14 For by one offering he hath perfected for ever them that are sanctified.
Jesus is God in the flesh, Immanuel=God with us.
Isaiah 7:14 KJV Therefore the Lord himself shall give you a sign; Behold, a virgin shall conceive, and bear a son, and shall call his name Immanuel Matthew 1:23 KJV Behold , a virgin shall be with child, and shall bring forth a son, and they shall call his name Emmanuel, which being interpreted is, God with us. (Emmanuel is Immanuel, just in Greek instead of Hebrew language), John 14:9 KJV Jesus saith unto him, Have I been so long time with you, and yet hast thou not known me, Philip? he that hath seen me hath seen the Father; and how sayest thou then, Shew us the Father?
He served His people while in the flesh, and opened up salvation to 'whosoever believeth in Him' John 3:14-17 KJV 14 And as Moses lifted up the serpent in the wilderness, even so must the Son of man be lifted up : 15 That whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but have eternal life. 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.
Salvation is now available to the House of Israel and all the nations to any individual who 'will believeth in Him' no matter under what man made government they may be living in Matthew 27:51 KJV And, behold , the veil of the temple was rent in twain from the top to the bottom; and the earth did quake , and the rocks rent Mark 15:38 KJV And the veil of the temple was rent in twain from the top to the bottom Luke 23:45 KJV And the sun was darkened , and the veil of the temple was rent in the midst
With His ultimate service of laying down His flesh life to those who were so confused and riled up, they killed the Messiah. Jesus The Christ, did not have to lay down His life. He had power to take it up at any time, but He served the will of God by serving the will of the people, to His flesh death. In that sacrifice He rent the veil of the Holies of Holies and 'whosoever believeth in Him' is allowed direct access to our Father through prayer and repentance in Jesus' Name, our Intercessor against the accuser of this world.
Revelation 12:10 KJV And I heard a loud voice saying in heaven, Now is come salvation, and strength, and the kingdom of our God, and the power of his Christ: for the accuser of our brethren is cast down , which accused them before our God day and night.
Likewise, He earned the role of our King of kings and Lord of lords in our hearts. He did not have to. As our Creator, He could've made us all robots who automatically love Him.
Hebrews 12:1-18 KJV 1 Therefore we ought to give the more earnest heed to the things which we have heard , lest at any time we should let them slip . 2 For if the word spoken by angels was stedfast, and every transgression and disobedience received a just recompence of reward; 3 How shall we escape , if we neglect so great salvation; which at the first began to be spoken by the Lord, and was confirmed unto us by them that heard him; 4 God also bearing them witness , both with signs and wonders, and with divers miracles, and gifts of the Holy Ghost, according to his own will? 5 For unto the angels hath he not put in subjection the world to come , whereof we speak . 6 But one in a certain place testified , saying , What is man, that thou art mindful of him? or the son of man, that thou visitest him? 7 Thou madest him a little lower than the angels; thou crownedst him with glory and honour, and didst set him over the works of thy hands: 8 Thou hast put all things in subjection under his feet. For in that he put all in subjection under him, he left nothing that is not put under him. But now we see not yet all things put under him. 9 But we see Jesus, who was made a little lower than the angels for the suffering of death, crowned with glory and honour; 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. 11 For both he that sanctifieth and they who are sanctified are all of one: for which cause he is not ashamed to call them brethren, 12 Saying , I will declare thy name unto my brethren, in the midst of the church will I sing praise unto thee. 13 And again, I will put my trust in him. And again, Behold I and the children which God hath given me. 14 Forasmuch then as the children are partakers of flesh and blood, he also himself likewise took part of the same; that through death he might destroy him that had the power of death, that is , the devil; 15 And deliver them who through fear of death were all their lifetime subject to bondage. 16 For verily he took not on him the nature of angels; but he took on him the seed of Abraham. 17 Wherefore in all things it behoved him to be made like unto his brethren, that he might be a merciful and faithful high priest in things pertaining to God, to make reconciliation for the sins of the people. 18 For in that he himself hath suffered being tempted , he is able to succour them that are tempted
But, He did not make us like robots without feelings and emotions. We learn, grow, mature, change all the time in what challenges we are going through or overcoming, in what we are learning. He showed us a challenge on how to have joy in our lives with Him when we choose to try to mature in His Way.
John 15:11 KJV These things have I spoken unto you, that my joy might remain in you, and that your joy might be full He wants us to have JOY. Jeremiah 33:9 KJV And it shall be to me a name of joy, a praise and an honour before all the nations of the earth, which shall hear all the good that I do unto them: and they shall fear and tremble for all the goodness and for all the prosperity that I procure unto it
Isaiah 9:1-8 KJV 1 Nevertheless the dimness shall not be such as was in her vexation, when at the first he lightly afflicted the land of Zebulun and the land of Naphtali, and afterward did more grievously afflict her by the way of the sea, beyond Jordan, in Galilee of the nations. 2 The people that walked in darkness have seen a great light: they that dwell in the land of the shadow of death, upon them hath the light shined. 3 Thou hast multiplied the nation, and not increased the joy: they joy before thee according to the joy in harvest, and as men rejoice when they divide the spoil. 4 For thou hast broken the yoke of his burden, and the staff of his shoulder, the rod of his oppressor, as in the day of Midian. 5 For every battle of the warrior is with confused noise, and garments rolled in blood; but this shall be with burning and fuel of fire. 6 For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon His shoulder: and His name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace. 7 Of the increase of His government and peace there shall be no end, upon the throne of David, and upon His kingdom, to order it, and to establish it with judgment and with justice from henceforth even for ever. The zeal of the LORD of hosts will perform this. 8 The Lord sent a word into Jacob, and it hath lighted upon Israel.
The only Way to do that is to live His Way, with Him as our King of kings, Lord of lords. Only His Word is infallible and will help us navigate and slice away lies from Truth that truly feeds the soul.
2 Timothy 3:16 KJV All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness:
Heaven is His throne, the earth is His footstool.
Isaiah 66:1 KJV Thus saith the LORD, The heaven is my throne, and the earth is my footstool : where is the house that ye build unto me? and where is the place of my rest?
Acts 7:49 KJV Heaven is my throne, and earth is my footstool : what house will ye build me? saith the Lord: or what is the place of my rest? Mark 14:58 KJV We heard him say , I will destroy this temple that is made with hands, and within three days I will build another made without hands.
There are different levels to that. He is King of kings, Lord of lords, so He rules in heaven and in earth over ALL.
Ezekiel 18:1-4 KJV 1 The word of the LORD came unto me again, saying , 2 What mean ye, that ye use this proverb concerning the land of Israel, saying , The fathers have eaten sour grapes, and the children's teeth are set on edge ? 3 As I live, saith the Lord GOD, ye shall not have occasion any more to use this proverb in Israel. 4 Behold, all souls are mine; as the soul of the father, so also the soul of the son is mine: the soul that sinneth , it shall die
He deserves and earned our respect and love and the position of our King. He did not have to and could have subjugated us all. But, He loves us and wanted our love to be genuine. He did not have to earn our respect as the very best possible King, but He did so through ultimate humility of service.
Isaiah 53:1-12 KJV 1 Who hath believed our report? and to whom is the arm of the LORD revealed ? 2 For he shall grow up before him as a tender plant, and as a root out of a dry ground: he hath no form nor comeliness; and when we shall see him, there is no beauty that we should desire him. 3 He is despised and rejected of men; a man of sorrows, and acquainted with grief: and we hid as it were our faces from him; he was despised , and we esteemed him not. 4 Surely he hath borne our griefs, and carried our sorrows: yet we did esteem him stricken , smitten of God, and afflicted . 5 But he was wounded for our transgressions, he was bruised for our iniquities: the chastisement of our peace was upon him; and with his stripes we are healed . 6 All we like sheep have gone astray ; we have turned every one to his own way; and the LORD hath laid on him the iniquity of us all. 7 He was oppressed , and he was afflicted , yet he opened not his mouth: he is brought as a lamb to the slaughter, and as a sheep before her shearers is dumb , so he openeth not his mouth. 8 He was taken from prison and from judgment: and who shall declare his generation? for he was cut off out of the land of the living: for the transgression of my people was he stricken. 9 And he made his grave with the wicked, and with the rich in his death; because he had done no violence, neither was any deceit in his mouth. 10 Yet it pleased the LORD to bruise him; he hath put him to grief : when thou shalt make his soul an offering for sin, he shall see his seed, he shall prolong his days, and the pleasure of the LORD shall prosper in his hand. 11 He shall see of the travail of his soul, and shall be satisfied: by his knowledge shall my righteous servant justify many; for he shall bear their iniquities. 12 Therefore will I divide him a portion with the great, and he shall divide the spoil with the strong; because he hath poured out his soul unto death: and he was numbered with the transgressors; and he bare the sin of many, and made intercession for the transgressors
At the one level, Jesus gave us power over all the power of the enemy in His Name in our own personal lives when we have faith in Him and His promises and through His Name.
Luke 10:19 KJV Behold, I give unto you power to tread on serpents and scorpions, and over all the power of the enemy: and nothing shall by any means hurt you
He always shows us the Way through. God and you make a majority, no matter what struggles you are facing.
1 Corinthians 10:13 KJV 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.
He wants to help us through our struggles, but He is a gentleman and will not interfere unless we ask and seek Him to be in our lives and we work to meet His very reasonable qualifications of us asking and repenting/trying to learn to do better to be pleasing to Him when we fall short. And when we fall short as we learn and grow, when we repent, He forgives and wipes clean. We may remember so we can learn from it, but He does not want to hear about it ever again. To bring sins forgiven up again is to doubt Him. Faith in Him and His promises require that when He says 'clean', He means it.
He loves us that much that He came through in the flesh to teach us this and to show us that He does not ask us to do anything that He had not done, Himself. He lived in the flesh in perfect humble service to all of us to the point He laid down His life when in our immaturity we were riled up, emotional and wanted Him gone, The Light that showed us our weaknesses which is painful.
John 3:19-21 KJV And this is the condemnation, that light is come into the world, and men loved darkness rather than light, because their deeds were evil. 20 For every one that doeth evil hateth the light, neither cometh to the light, lest his deeds should be reproved. 21 But he that doeth truth cometh to the light, that his deeds may be made manifest, that they are wrought in God.
The Light of our lives, the Love of our lives, sees our weaknesses and when we realize that we are not perfect and we fall short in front of the One we love most and most want to please, that is a very painful moment, but He laid down His life to show us that He will not mock or be cruel to us in our imperfect love for Him.
Luke 23:34 KJV Then said Jesus, Father, forgive them; for they know not what they do. And they parted his raiment, and cast lots
Even when we deserved it and when the cruelest intentions of murdering His flesh came against Him, as He was on the cross, He only taught and forgave. He is long-suffering and wills that ALL come to repentance.
2 Peter 3:9 KJV The Lord is not slack concerning his promise, as some men count slackness; but is longsuffering to us-ward, not willing that any should perish , but that all should come to repentance.
The cross was the ultimate lesson that when He or His disciples (disciplined in study in His Word and Way) are teaching they are to turn the other cheek as He taught "the disciples".
Matthew 5: 1 KJV And seeing the multitudes, he went up into a mountain: and when he was set, his disciples came unto him: 2 And he opened his mouth, and taught them, saying... Matthew 5:39 KJV 39 But I say unto you, That ye resist not evil: but whosoever shall smite thee on thy right cheek, turn to him the other also
He taught this to those who would be teaching His Word and Way and does not include self defense from attacks that come outside of teaching. In other words, if a person becomes riled up against you because of teaching His Word and you caused them to be riled up, then turn the other cheek so they are not offended so much they turn from God, let them be offended with you so they may still investigate God's promises when they calm down.
If someone means you harm in evil intent and it was not caused by you teaching God's Word, then self protection is required by God in order to preserve the disciples/teachers so they can continue to teach.
1 Timothy 5:7-8 KJV 7 And these things give in charge , that they may be blameless. 8 But if any provide not for his own, and specially for those of his own house, he hath denied the faith, and is worse than an infidel
Luke 11:21 KJV When a strong man armed keepeth his palace, his goods are in peace.
The cross was also the ultimate lesson that His Word comes to pass exactly as written.
2 Timothy 3:16 KJV All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness:
As Jesus was on the cross, He was teaching Psalm 22. The events written by King David, a thousand years before, with Divine guidance, were coming to pass, exactly as prophesied a thousand years before, right down to the Roman soldiers gambling for his robe. What profit would the Roman soldiers have in following prophesy? It was by Divine guidance that all Scripture was fulfilled as written, even through those who most likely did not know Scripture.
Psalm 22:18 KJV They part my garments among them, And cast lots upon my vesture.
Matthew 27:35 KJV And they crucified him, and parted his garments, casting lots: that it might be fulfilled which was spoken by the prophet, They parted my garments among them, and upon my vesture did they cast lots.
Matthew 27:46 KJV And about the ninth hour Jesus cried with a loud voice, saying , Eli, Eli, lama sabachthani? that is to say, My God, my God, why hast thou forsaken me? Mark 15:34 KJV And at the ninth hour Jesus cried with a loud voice, saying , Eloi, Eloi, lama sabachthani? which is, being interpreted, My God, my God, why hast thou forsaken me?
(note: Jesus never called God, 'God', He always called Him 'Father' as an example to us Matthew 6:6-13 KJV But thou, when thou prayest , enter into thy closet, and when thou hast shut thy door, pray to thy Father which is in secret; and thy Father which seeth in secret shall reward thee openly . 7 But when ye pray , use not vain repetitions , as the heathen do: for they think that they shall be heard for their much speaking. 8 Be not ye therefore like unto them: for your Father knoweth what things ye have need of, before ye ask him. 9 After this manner therefore pray ye: Our Father which art in heaven, Hallowed be thy name. 10 Thy kingdom come . Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven. 11 Give us this day our daily bread. 12 And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors. 13 And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil: For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, for ever. Amen )
Psalm 22:1 KJV My God, my God, why hast thou forsaken me? why art thou so far from helping me, and from the words of my roaring?
Then at the end of teaching Psalm 22, He concluded with "It is finished"
John 19:30 KJV When Jesus therefore had received the vinegar, he said , It is finished: and he bowed his head, and gave up the ghost.
The word "finished" in the original language of Greek of the New Testament before translation into English is 'teleo' # 5055 in the Strong's Exhaustive Concordance Greek Dictionary, which means 'done'. It is also the word 'accomplished' in John 19:28 KJV After this, Jesus knowing that all things were now accomplished, that the scripture might be fulfilled, saith, I thirst
Psalm 22:31 KJV They shall come, and shall declare his righteousness unto a people that shall be born, that he hath done this
Psalm 22 ends with the Hebrew word for 'done' which is 'asah'. #6213 in the Strong's Exhaustive Concordance Hebrew Dictionary.
"It is finished" = "He hath done this".
Do not be confused, though, our Father is not impotent against evil and there is a time appointed where He will pour out His wrath on those hard heads that will not hear His Word, continue to rebel and do evil. As our King, He protects His own from the cruelty our immaturity and/or choices inflict on ourselves and each other. There IS a point, as written, where He has given the lessons and we either learned or we have not. The choice is ours.
Hebrews 2:3 KJV How shall we escape, if we neglect so great salvation; which at the first began to be spoken by the Lord, and was confirmed unto us by them that heard him;
If we have learned to personally/individually train our minds and become self disciplined in His Love, in His full Word, His Way, with the end goal of being able to fully experience the range of emotions that we were naturally born with in discipline and the safety of His love, then we have the JOY of Him.
John 14:22-23 KJV Judas saith unto him, not Iscariot, Lord, how is it that thou wilt manifest thyself unto us, and not unto the world? 23 Jesus answered and said unto him, if a man love me, he will keep my words: and my Father will love him, and we will come unto him, and make our abode with him.
If we have not bothered to learn and are like wild toddlers flailing around at every whim and emotion, hurting ourselves and hurting others through our lack of maturity, training, and discipline in His Word, He HAS to rein us in, in His timing, in order to protect us as well as those around us. Sometimes spanking us and showing us through what we understand, (even when we are out of control like a toddler), 'strength', that we are NOT as powerful as Him and we are NOT in control of anyone or anything but ourselves, but He is above all.
John 19:11 KJV Jesus answered, Thou couldest have no power at all against me, except it were given thee from above: therefore he that delivered me unto thee hath the greater sin.
Even that tough love discipline is in Love, teaching us our boundaries. As any parent, we can understand how He probably wishes to never have to discipline us and it most likely hurts Him more than us to need to discipline us which is why He went to such extremes to show us His love and willingness to forgive with such a simple request that we think about it and repent and try to learn to be better. 7 x 70 times He will forgive, as long as we repent.
Matthew 18:21-22 KJV Then came Peter to him, and said, Lord, how oft shall my brother sin against me, and I forgive him? till seven times? 22 Jesus saith unto him, I say not unto thee, Until seven times: but, Until seventy times seven.
But if in our toddler stubbornness, we refuse to submit to His Way or to even try, He will discipline. We have no power against anyone who has faith in Him and calls on Him for protection unless it is given from Him.
John 19:11 KJV Jesus answered, Thou couldest have no power at all against me, except it were given thee from above: therefore he that delivered me unto thee hath the greater sin.
Luke 10:19 KJV Behold, I give unto you power to tread on serpents and scorpions, and over all the power of the enemy: and nothing shall by any means hurt you.
But for those who do not call on Him or trust in His Name, His Word, His promises, we can hurt each other, but even allowing that, He is allowing discipline, so hopefully we WILL turn to Him and appreciate His protection over us thank Him and ask Him for it and mature and become people others want to be around.
1 Corinthians 10:13 KJV 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.
Luke 17:19-21 KJV 19 And he said unto him, Arise , go thy way : thy faith hath made thee whole . 20 And when he was demanded of the Pharisees, when the kingdom of God should come , he answered them and said, The kingdom of God cometh not with observation: 21 Neither shall they say, Lo here! or, lo there! for, behold, the kingdom of God is within you.
WE are to be actively involved over what we can control, which is ourselves and our reactions to events around us and our choices. WE choose to study and be disciplined in Him...or not. WE choose to personally investigate His promises and His Word...or not. What we lose when we choose to not do these things, is Him now and in the eternity and eternity with all our friends and family that have decided to have faith in Him, in His promises, in His Word and do actively work to be pleasing to Him and have Him in their lives. That is a seriously harsh and lonely decision for a soul to make.
2 Corinthians 7:10 KJV For godly sorrow worketh repentance to salvation not to be repented of: but the sorrow of the world worketh death.
When we choose Him, we are never alone, He is always with us and it is a joy to know that His love is fully available to all we love, too.
Hebrews 13:5 KJV Let your conversation be without covetousness; and be content with such things as ye have: for he hath said, I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee.
One sign of maturity that God appreciates is when we trust Him enough to thank Him for keeping us in line, knowing He only allows what we need.
Hebrews 11:6 KJV 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.
When we become 'abel'/able, or mature, our emotions can still be enflamed and jealousies over loved ones or God, can temporarily override our sensibilities, but as long as we stay strong in Him and His promises, repenting when we go astray, asking for His guidance, He bridges that gap in ourselves and carries us across. The temptations pass over us, (1 Corinthians 10:13 KJV) though our minds pass out in such strong emotions and passions. HIS Passion, covers us as evil passes over us where our passions become too much for us to handle on our own.
James 5:17 KJV Elias was a man subject to like passions as we are, and he prayed earnestly that it might not rain: and it rained not on the earth by the space of three years and six months.
Cain's offering was not pleasing to God, Cain did not work to be pleasing to God or trust in Him, so when his emotions of jealousy were riled up, he tried to destroy his brother Abel by murdering him.
Genesis 4:1-8 KJV 1 And Adam knew Eve his wife; and she conceived , and bare Cain, and said , I have gotten a man from the LORD. 2 And she again bare his brother Abel. And Abel was a keeper of sheep, but Cain was a tiller of the ground. 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. And unto thee shall be his desire, and thou shalt rule over him. 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
As though removing what he falsely believed caused those emotions (Abel) would fix the hurtful feelings that he was dealing with of his work being rejected. Those feelings that hurt us are feelings of disappointing God and those we love. Removing those we love, trying to remove God, does not fix those feelings. They stick with us no matter where we go and can be a heavy burden, until we repent to God in Jesus' Name and open our hearts and minds to learn and mature.
Isaiah 1:18 KJV Come now, and let us reason together, saith the LORD: though your sins be as scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they be red like crimson, they shall be as wool.
How can you reason with God if you don't know what His promises are? There is only one Way through and that's His Way, in decisions we make for ourselves to self-discipline in His Word and Way. When we choose Him, He will guide us in His Way to the Light, to forgiveness, to relief in His love and even to JOY in learning how to mature to the point we can experience the full range of our God given emotions with Him and each other-safely in His love. That's not safe without discipline, without His love, as Cain's actions show. IF we choose to go it alone without God, we do not have His protection and this world can be very cruel.
2 Corinthians 7:10 KJV For godly sorrow worketh repentance to salvation not to be repented of: but the sorrow of the world worketh death.
We can actually be very cruel to ourselves, too, by choosing this path.
Abel is still alive. He is with God having died in the flesh while working to be pleasing to God and through no fault of his own his flesh life was taken. Cain is still alive. When his flesh died and he returned to God, Ecclesiastes 12:6-7 KJV 6 Or ever the silver cord be loosed , or the golden bowl be broken , or the pitcher be broken at the fountain, or the wheel broken at the cistern. 7 Then shall the dust return to the earth as it was: and the spirit shall return unto God who gave it, he had committed a sin that was not forgive-able in the flesh, 1 John 3:15 KJV 15 Whosoever hateth his brother is a murderer: and ye know that no murderer hath eternal life abiding in him, he did not get to be with God and is on the other side of the gulf in heaven. Luke 16:19-31 KJV 19 There was a certain rich man, which was clothed in purple and fine linen, and fared sumptuously every day: 20 And there was a certain beggar named Lazarus, which was laid at his gate, full of sores , 21 And desiring to be fed with the crumbs which fell from the rich man's table: moreover the dogs came and licked his sores. 22 And it came to pass , that the beggar died , and was carried by the angels into Abraham's bosom: the rich man also died , and was buried ; 23 And in hell he lift up his eyes, being in torments, and seeth Abraham afar off, and Lazarus in his bosom. 24 And he cried and said , Father Abraham, have mercy on me, and send Lazarus, that he may dip the tip of his finger in water, and cool my tongue; for I am tormented in this flame. 25 But Abraham said , Son, remember that thou in thy lifetime receivedst thy good things, and likewise Lazarus evil things: but now he is comforted , and thou art tormented . 26 And beside all this, between us and you there is a great gulf fixed : so that they which would pass from hence to you cannot ; neither can they pass to us, that would come from thence. 27 Then he said , I pray thee therefore, father, that thou wouldest send him to my father's house: 28 For I have five brethren; that he may testify unto them, lest they also come into this place of torment. 29 Abraham saith unto him, They have Moses and the prophets; let them hear them. 30 And he said , Nay, father Abraham: but if one went unto them from the dead, they will repent . 31 And he said unto him, If they hear not Moses and the prophets, neither will they be persuaded , though one rose from the dead
Cain is awaiting, as we all are, the millennium of teaching and the final Judgment Day Revelation 20:11-15 KJV 11 And I saw a great white throne, and him that sat on it, from whose face the earth and the heaven fled away ; and there was found no place for them. 12 And I saw the dead, small and great, stand before God; and the books were opened : and another book was opened , which is the book of life: and the dead were judged out of those things which were written in the books, according to their works. 13 And the sea gave up the dead which were in it; and death and hell delivered up the dead which were in them: and they were judged every man according to their works. 14 And death and hell were cast into the lake of fire. This is the second death. 15 And whosoever was not found written in the book of life was cast into the lake of fire.
Jesus went to the ones on the other side of the gulf and taught those there.
1 Peter 3:11-22 KJV 11 Let him eschew evil, and do good; let him seek peace, and ensue it. 12 For the eyes of the Lord are over the righteous, and his ears are open unto their prayers: but the face of the Lord is against them that do evil. 13 And who is he that will harm you, if ye be followers of that which is good? 14 But and if ye suffer for righteousness' sake, happy are ye: and be not afraid of their terror, neither be troubled ; 15 But sanctify the Lord God in your hearts: and be ready always to give an answer to every man that asketh you a reason of the hope that is in you with meekness and fear: 16 Having a good conscience; that, whereas they speak evil of you, as of evildoers, they may be ashamed that falsely accuse your good conversation in Christ. 17 For it is better, if the will of God be so , that ye suffer for well doing , than for evil doing . 18 For Christ also hath once suffered for sins, the just for the unjust, that he might bring us to God, being put to death in the flesh, but quickened by the Spirit: 19 By which also he went and preached unto the spirits in prison; 20 Which sometime were disobedient , when once the longsuffering of God waited in the days of Noah, while the ark was a preparing , wherein few, that is , eight souls were saved by water. 21 The like figure whereunto even baptism doth also now save us (not the putting away of the filth of the flesh, but the answer of a good conscience toward God,) by the resurrection of Jesus Christ: 22 Who is gone into heaven, and is on the right hand of God; angels and authorities and powers being made subject unto him.
One can hope that Cain has realized being without God or those who love God and His Way is a much worse situation than working to be pleasing. And he has truly repented and is working to mature and will be acceptable in God's Kingdom and find JOY there with loved God and loved ones. One thing is for sure, God will ultimately judge fates of each soul in His timing. It is written.
1 Thessalonians 5:9 KJV 9 For God hath not appointed us to wrath, but to obtain salvation by our Lord Jesus Christ,
That choice is ours to investigate, reason with, study His Word or not.
2 Peter 1:7 KJV For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind.
John 3:6 KJV That which is born of the flesh is flesh; and that which is born of the Spirit is spirit.
John 8:31-32 KJV 31 Then said Jesus to those Jews which believed on him, If ye continue in my word, then are ye my disciples indeed; 32 And ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free
John 13:38 KJV 38 Jesus answered him, Wilt thou lay down thy life for my sake? Verily, verily, I say unto thee, The cock shall not crow, till thou hast denied me thrice
John 14:6 KJV Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by Me.
John 14:1-4 KJV 1 Let not your heart be troubled: ye believe in God, believe also in me. 2 In my Father's house are many mansions: if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. 3 And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto myself; that where I am, there ye may be also. 4 And whither I go ye know, and the way ye know
Saturday, April 23, 2011
Thursday, March 3, 2011
Bambi for breakfast
Bambi for breakfast
Originally uploaded by RoseThistleArtworks
Well, this little guy was waiting for me this morning when I went out to feed the farm animals. I think he's the 6 point that dropped his antlers here a while back. It looks like the winter and rut season's been rough on him. It's really cool to be able to see a wild creature like that so close. His little hooves are so black and shiny and his eyes are so sweet.
Monday, February 28, 2011
Wild Deer for breakfast
Wild Deer for breakfast
Originally uploaded by RoseThistleArtworks
Geoff went to feed the llamas the other morning and this wild deer stuck around. Her herd ran over the hill. But, she decided she wanted some grain, too. So she stayed around and ate right out of the bucket in his hands. Animals trust Geoff in an amazing way I don't think I've ever seen before
Saturday, December 25, 2010
Christmas Jesus the Christ, Immanuel "God with us"
Merry Christmas!
This is the day Christians celebrate when Jesus the Christ first dwelt "with us" in the flesh. Jesus' birth and conception IS written in the Bible.
The Old Testament foretold of this time that we celebrate.
Isaiah 7:14 (King James Version) Therefore the Lord Himself shall give you a sign; Behold, a virgin shall conceive, and bear a son, and shall call His name Immanuel.
And the New Testament recalls this prophecy in Matthew 1
Matthew 1:23 (King James Version) Behold, a virgin shall be with child, and shall bring forth a Son, and they shall call His name Emmanuel, which being interpreted is, God with us.
The exact date of Jesus' conception and birth is determined with a bit of study in His Word.
Luke 1 (King James Version)1 Forasmuch as many have taken in hand to set forth in order a declaration of those things which are most surely believed among us, 2 Even as they delivered them unto us, which from the beginning were eyewitnesses, and ministers of the word; 3 It seemed good to me also, having had perfect understanding of all things from the very first, to write unto thee in order, most excellent Theophilus, (translated this name means most beloved of God), 4 That thou mightest know the certainty of those things, wherein thou hast been instructed.
5 There was in the days of Herod, the king of Judaea, a certain priest named Zacharias, of the course of Abia: (this course is a set week of duty in the Temple, 1 Chronicles 24:10, it was June 13-June 19) and his wife was of the daughters of Aaron, and her name was Elisabeth. 6 And they were both righteous before God, walking in all the commandments and ordinances of the Lord blameless. 7 And they had no child, because that Elisabeth was barren, and they both were now well stricken in years.
8 And it came to pass, that while he executed the priest's office before God in the order of his course, 9 According to the custom of the priest's office, his lot was to burn incense when he went into the temple of the Lord. 10 And the whole multitude of the people were praying without at the time of incense. 11 And there appeared unto him an angel of the Lord standing on the right side of the altar of incense. 12 And when Zacharias saw him, he was troubled, and fear fell upon him. 13 But the angel said unto him, Fear not, Zacharias: for thy prayer is heard; and thy wife Elisabeth shall bear thee a son, and thou shalt call his name John. 14 And thou shalt have joy and gladness; and many shall rejoice at his birth. 15 For he shall be great in the sight of the Lord, and shall drink neither wine nor strong drink; and he shall be filled with the Holy Ghost, even from his mother's womb. 16 And many of the children of Israel shall he turn to the Lord their God. 17 And he shall go before him in the spirit and power of Elias(Elias in Greek, Elijah in Hebrew), to turn the hearts of the fathers to the children, and the disobedient to the wisdom of the just; to make ready a people prepared for the Lord. 18 And Zacharias said unto the angel, Whereby shall I know this? for I am an old man, and my wife well stricken in years . 19 And the angel answering said unto him, I am Gabriel, (Gabriel translated means, man of God), that stand in the presence of God; and am sent to speak unto thee, and to shew thee these glad tidings. 20 And, behold, thou shalt be dumb, and not able to speak, until the day that these things shall be performed, because thou believest not my words, which shall be fulfilled in their season. 21 And the people waited for Zacharias, and marvelled that he tarried so long in the temple. 22 And when he came out, he could not speak unto them: and they perceived that he had seen a vision in the temple: for he beckoned unto them, and remained speechless.
23 And it came to pass, that, as soon as the days of his ministration were accomplished, he departed to his own house. (June 19th was the weekly sabbath and no traveling allowed, so he would have left for home at the earliest June 20th. He was an old man stricken in years, at least two-four days travel to get back to his home. That would put conception of John at June 24th) 24 And after those days his wife Elisabeth conceived, and hid herself five months, saying , 25 Thus hath the Lord dealt with me in the days wherein he looked on me, to take away my reproach among men.
26 And in the sixth month the angel Gabriel was sent from God unto a city of Galilee, named Nazareth, (John was now in the womb six months and this date is December 25th)27 To a virgin espoused to a man whose name was Joseph, of the house of David; and the virgin's name was Mary. 28 And the angel came in unto her, and said, Hail, thou that art highly favoured, the Lord is with thee: blessed art thou among women. 29 And when she saw him, she was troubled at his saying, and cast in her mind what manner of salutation this should be. 30 And the angel said unto her, Fear not, Mary: for thou hast found favour with God. 31 And, behold , thou shalt conceive in thy womb, and bring forth a Son, and shalt call His name JESUS. 32 He shall be great, and shall be called the Son of the Highest: and the Lord God shall give unto Him the throne of his father David: 33 And He shall reign over the house of Jacob for ever; and of His kingdom there shall be no end. (Hebrews 5:5 and Hebrews 5:6) 34 Then said Mary unto the angel, How shall this be, seeing I know not a man? (note that she did not doubt this was to happen, as Zacharias had. She wondered how) 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. 36 And, behold, thy cousin Elisabeth, (note that Gabriel is saying Elisabeth is Mary's cousin. Elisabeth was of the daughters of Aaron as in Luke 1:5. That means that Mary's mother, Elisabeth's sister was Levitical and in Luke 3, Mary's lineage shows her father was of Judah, through David's son, Nathan. The words 'as was supposed' mean 'by law' like we say 'in law' today to describe married into family), she hath also conceived a son in her old age: and this is the sixth month with her, who was called barren. 37 For with God nothing shall be impossible. 38 And Mary said, Behold the handmaid of the Lord; be it unto me according to thy word. And the angel departed from her.
39 And Mary arose in those days, and went into the hill country with haste, into a city of Juda; 40 And entered into the house of Zacharias, and saluted Elisabeth. 41 And it came to pass, that, when Elisabeth heard the salutation of Mary, the babe leaped in her womb; (the baby John, six months in the womb, recognized Jesus in the womb of Mary) and Elisabeth was filled with the Holy Ghost: 42 And she spake out with a loud voice, and said, Blessed art thou among women, and blessed is the fruit of thy womb. 43 And whence is this to me, that the mother of my Lord should come to me? 44 For, lo, as soon as the voice of thy salutation sounded in mine ears, the babe leaped in my womb for joy. 45 And blessed is she that believed: for there shall be a performance of those things which were told her from the Lord. 46 And Mary said, My soul doth magnify the Lord, 47 And my spirit hath rejoiced in God my Saviour. 48 For He hath regarded the low estate of his handmaiden: for, behold, from henceforth all generations shall call me blessed. 49 For He that is mighty hath done to me great things; and holy is His name. 50 And His mercy is on them that fear (revere or respect) Him from generation to generation. 51 He hath shewed strength with his arm; He hath scattered the proud in the imagination of their hearts. 52 He hath put down the mighty from their seats, and exalted them of low degree. 53 He hath filled the hungry with good things; and the rich he hath sent empty away. 54 He hath holpen his servant Israel, in remembrance of His mercy; 55 As He spake to our fathers, to Abraham, and to his seed for ever.
56 And Mary abode with her about three months, and returned to her own house. 57 Now Elisabeth's full time came that she should be delivered; and she brought forth a son. 58 And her neighbours and her cousins heard how the Lord had shewed great mercy upon her; and they rejoiced with her. 59 And it came to pass, that on the eighth day they came to circumcise the child; and they called him Zacharias, after the name of his father. 60 And his mother answered and said, Not so; but he shall be called John. 61 And they said unto her, There is none of thy kindred that is called by this name. 62 And they made signs to his father, how he would have him called. 63 And he asked for a writing table, and wrote, saying, His name is John. And they marvelled all. 64 And his mouth was opened immediately, and his tongue loosed, and he spake, and praised God. 65 And fear came on all that dwelt round about them: and all these sayings were noised abroad throughout all the hill country of Judaea. 66 And all they that heard them laid them up in their hearts, saying, What manner of child shall this be! And the hand of the Lord was with him. 67 And his father Zacharias was filled with the Holy Ghost, and prophesied, saying, 68 Blessed be the Lord God of Israel; for He hath visited and redeemed His people, 69 And hath raised up an horn of salvation for us in the house of his servant David; 70 As He spake by the mouth of His holy prophets, which have been since the world began: 71 That we should be saved from our enemies, and from the hand of all that hate us; 72 To perform the mercy promised to our fathers, and to remember His holy covenant; 73 The oath which he sware to our father Abraham, 74 That He would grant unto us, that we being delivered out of the hand of our enemies might serve Him without fear, 75 In holiness and righteousness before Him, all the days of our life. 76 And thou, child, shalt be called the prophet of the Highest: for thou shalt go before the face of the Lord to prepare his ways; 77 To give knowledge of salvation unto His people by the remission of their sins, 78 Through the tender mercy of our God; whereby the dayspring from on high hath visited us, 79 To give light to them that sit in darkness and in the shadow of death, to guide our feet into the way of peace. 80 And the child grew, and waxed strong in spirit, and was in the deserts till the day of his shewing unto Israel.
Six months later, September 29th, JESUS was born at the beginning of the Feast of Tabernacles and circumcised on the 8th day. The shepherds were with their flocks, working in the fields, when our Saviour was born.
Christmas is a very special time of year when our Lord and Saviour first dwelt with man, conceived this day in the womb of Mary.
A precious gift of great love offered in freedom for each soul to choose from God to the world.
Ezekiel 18:23 (King James Version) Have I any pleasure at all that the wicked should die? saith the Lord GOD: and not that he should return from his ways, and live?
2 Peter 3:9 (King James Version) The Lord is not slack concerning his promise, as some men count slackness; but is longsuffering to us-ward, not willing that any should perish , but that all should come to repentance.
John 3:15 That whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but have eternal life. 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. 18 He that believeth on Him is not condemned: but he that believeth not is condemned already, because he hath not believed in the Name of the only begotten Son of God. 19 And this is the condemnation, that light is come into the world, and men loved darkness rather than light, because their deeds were evil. 20 For every one that doeth evil hateth the light, neither cometh to the light, lest his deeds should be reproved. 21 But he that doeth truth cometh to the light, that his deeds may be made manifest, that they are wrought in God.
John 15:11 (King James Version) These things have I spoken unto you, that My joy might remain in you, and that your joy might be full.
Merry Christmas!
This is the day Christians celebrate when Jesus the Christ first dwelt "with us" in the flesh. Jesus' birth and conception IS written in the Bible.
The Old Testament foretold of this time that we celebrate.
Isaiah 7:14 (King James Version) Therefore the Lord Himself shall give you a sign; Behold, a virgin shall conceive, and bear a son, and shall call His name Immanuel.
And the New Testament recalls this prophecy in Matthew 1
Matthew 1:23 (King James Version) Behold, a virgin shall be with child, and shall bring forth a Son, and they shall call His name Emmanuel, which being interpreted is, God with us.
The exact date of Jesus' conception and birth is determined with a bit of study in His Word.
Luke 1 (King James Version)1 Forasmuch as many have taken in hand to set forth in order a declaration of those things which are most surely believed among us, 2 Even as they delivered them unto us, which from the beginning were eyewitnesses, and ministers of the word; 3 It seemed good to me also, having had perfect understanding of all things from the very first, to write unto thee in order, most excellent Theophilus, (translated this name means most beloved of God), 4 That thou mightest know the certainty of those things, wherein thou hast been instructed.
5 There was in the days of Herod, the king of Judaea, a certain priest named Zacharias, of the course of Abia: (this course is a set week of duty in the Temple, 1 Chronicles 24:10, it was June 13-June 19) and his wife was of the daughters of Aaron, and her name was Elisabeth. 6 And they were both righteous before God, walking in all the commandments and ordinances of the Lord blameless. 7 And they had no child, because that Elisabeth was barren, and they both were now well stricken in years.
8 And it came to pass, that while he executed the priest's office before God in the order of his course, 9 According to the custom of the priest's office, his lot was to burn incense when he went into the temple of the Lord. 10 And the whole multitude of the people were praying without at the time of incense. 11 And there appeared unto him an angel of the Lord standing on the right side of the altar of incense. 12 And when Zacharias saw him, he was troubled, and fear fell upon him. 13 But the angel said unto him, Fear not, Zacharias: for thy prayer is heard; and thy wife Elisabeth shall bear thee a son, and thou shalt call his name John. 14 And thou shalt have joy and gladness; and many shall rejoice at his birth. 15 For he shall be great in the sight of the Lord, and shall drink neither wine nor strong drink; and he shall be filled with the Holy Ghost, even from his mother's womb. 16 And many of the children of Israel shall he turn to the Lord their God. 17 And he shall go before him in the spirit and power of Elias(Elias in Greek, Elijah in Hebrew), to turn the hearts of the fathers to the children, and the disobedient to the wisdom of the just; to make ready a people prepared for the Lord. 18 And Zacharias said unto the angel, Whereby shall I know this? for I am an old man, and my wife well stricken in years . 19 And the angel answering said unto him, I am Gabriel, (Gabriel translated means, man of God), that stand in the presence of God; and am sent to speak unto thee, and to shew thee these glad tidings. 20 And, behold, thou shalt be dumb, and not able to speak, until the day that these things shall be performed, because thou believest not my words, which shall be fulfilled in their season. 21 And the people waited for Zacharias, and marvelled that he tarried so long in the temple. 22 And when he came out, he could not speak unto them: and they perceived that he had seen a vision in the temple: for he beckoned unto them, and remained speechless.
23 And it came to pass, that, as soon as the days of his ministration were accomplished, he departed to his own house. (June 19th was the weekly sabbath and no traveling allowed, so he would have left for home at the earliest June 20th. He was an old man stricken in years, at least two-four days travel to get back to his home. That would put conception of John at June 24th) 24 And after those days his wife Elisabeth conceived, and hid herself five months, saying , 25 Thus hath the Lord dealt with me in the days wherein he looked on me, to take away my reproach among men.
26 And in the sixth month the angel Gabriel was sent from God unto a city of Galilee, named Nazareth, (John was now in the womb six months and this date is December 25th)27 To a virgin espoused to a man whose name was Joseph, of the house of David; and the virgin's name was Mary. 28 And the angel came in unto her, and said, Hail, thou that art highly favoured, the Lord is with thee: blessed art thou among women. 29 And when she saw him, she was troubled at his saying, and cast in her mind what manner of salutation this should be. 30 And the angel said unto her, Fear not, Mary: for thou hast found favour with God. 31 And, behold , thou shalt conceive in thy womb, and bring forth a Son, and shalt call His name JESUS. 32 He shall be great, and shall be called the Son of the Highest: and the Lord God shall give unto Him the throne of his father David: 33 And He shall reign over the house of Jacob for ever; and of His kingdom there shall be no end. (Hebrews 5:5 and Hebrews 5:6) 34 Then said Mary unto the angel, How shall this be, seeing I know not a man? (note that she did not doubt this was to happen, as Zacharias had. She wondered how) 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. 36 And, behold, thy cousin Elisabeth, (note that Gabriel is saying Elisabeth is Mary's cousin. Elisabeth was of the daughters of Aaron as in Luke 1:5. That means that Mary's mother, Elisabeth's sister was Levitical and in Luke 3, Mary's lineage shows her father was of Judah, through David's son, Nathan. The words 'as was supposed' mean 'by law' like we say 'in law' today to describe married into family), she hath also conceived a son in her old age: and this is the sixth month with her, who was called barren. 37 For with God nothing shall be impossible. 38 And Mary said, Behold the handmaid of the Lord; be it unto me according to thy word. And the angel departed from her.
39 And Mary arose in those days, and went into the hill country with haste, into a city of Juda; 40 And entered into the house of Zacharias, and saluted Elisabeth. 41 And it came to pass, that, when Elisabeth heard the salutation of Mary, the babe leaped in her womb; (the baby John, six months in the womb, recognized Jesus in the womb of Mary) and Elisabeth was filled with the Holy Ghost: 42 And she spake out with a loud voice, and said, Blessed art thou among women, and blessed is the fruit of thy womb. 43 And whence is this to me, that the mother of my Lord should come to me? 44 For, lo, as soon as the voice of thy salutation sounded in mine ears, the babe leaped in my womb for joy. 45 And blessed is she that believed: for there shall be a performance of those things which were told her from the Lord. 46 And Mary said, My soul doth magnify the Lord, 47 And my spirit hath rejoiced in God my Saviour. 48 For He hath regarded the low estate of his handmaiden: for, behold, from henceforth all generations shall call me blessed. 49 For He that is mighty hath done to me great things; and holy is His name. 50 And His mercy is on them that fear (revere or respect) Him from generation to generation. 51 He hath shewed strength with his arm; He hath scattered the proud in the imagination of their hearts. 52 He hath put down the mighty from their seats, and exalted them of low degree. 53 He hath filled the hungry with good things; and the rich he hath sent empty away. 54 He hath holpen his servant Israel, in remembrance of His mercy; 55 As He spake to our fathers, to Abraham, and to his seed for ever.
56 And Mary abode with her about three months, and returned to her own house. 57 Now Elisabeth's full time came that she should be delivered; and she brought forth a son. 58 And her neighbours and her cousins heard how the Lord had shewed great mercy upon her; and they rejoiced with her. 59 And it came to pass, that on the eighth day they came to circumcise the child; and they called him Zacharias, after the name of his father. 60 And his mother answered and said, Not so; but he shall be called John. 61 And they said unto her, There is none of thy kindred that is called by this name. 62 And they made signs to his father, how he would have him called. 63 And he asked for a writing table, and wrote, saying, His name is John. And they marvelled all. 64 And his mouth was opened immediately, and his tongue loosed, and he spake, and praised God. 65 And fear came on all that dwelt round about them: and all these sayings were noised abroad throughout all the hill country of Judaea. 66 And all they that heard them laid them up in their hearts, saying, What manner of child shall this be! And the hand of the Lord was with him. 67 And his father Zacharias was filled with the Holy Ghost, and prophesied, saying, 68 Blessed be the Lord God of Israel; for He hath visited and redeemed His people, 69 And hath raised up an horn of salvation for us in the house of his servant David; 70 As He spake by the mouth of His holy prophets, which have been since the world began: 71 That we should be saved from our enemies, and from the hand of all that hate us; 72 To perform the mercy promised to our fathers, and to remember His holy covenant; 73 The oath which he sware to our father Abraham, 74 That He would grant unto us, that we being delivered out of the hand of our enemies might serve Him without fear, 75 In holiness and righteousness before Him, all the days of our life. 76 And thou, child, shalt be called the prophet of the Highest: for thou shalt go before the face of the Lord to prepare his ways; 77 To give knowledge of salvation unto His people by the remission of their sins, 78 Through the tender mercy of our God; whereby the dayspring from on high hath visited us, 79 To give light to them that sit in darkness and in the shadow of death, to guide our feet into the way of peace. 80 And the child grew, and waxed strong in spirit, and was in the deserts till the day of his shewing unto Israel.
Six months later, September 29th, JESUS was born at the beginning of the Feast of Tabernacles and circumcised on the 8th day. The shepherds were with their flocks, working in the fields, when our Saviour was born.
Christmas is a very special time of year when our Lord and Saviour first dwelt with man, conceived this day in the womb of Mary.
A precious gift of great love offered in freedom for each soul to choose from God to the world.
Ezekiel 18:23 (King James Version) Have I any pleasure at all that the wicked should die? saith the Lord GOD: and not that he should return from his ways, and live?
2 Peter 3:9 (King James Version) The Lord is not slack concerning his promise, as some men count slackness; but is longsuffering to us-ward, not willing that any should perish , but that all should come to repentance.
John 3:15 That whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but have eternal life. 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. 18 He that believeth on Him is not condemned: but he that believeth not is condemned already, because he hath not believed in the Name of the only begotten Son of God. 19 And this is the condemnation, that light is come into the world, and men loved darkness rather than light, because their deeds were evil. 20 For every one that doeth evil hateth the light, neither cometh to the light, lest his deeds should be reproved. 21 But he that doeth truth cometh to the light, that his deeds may be made manifest, that they are wrought in God.
John 15:11 (King James Version) These things have I spoken unto you, that My joy might remain in you, and that your joy might be full.
Merry Christmas!
Saturday, August 28, 2010
What is Judeo-Christian? How does that align with John 14:6?
The following is an article written by CR Dickey sometime between 1938 and 1967 - Article from Biblical Treasures (Volume I) – C. R. Dickey. For more information on her from the editors of Biblical Treasures (Volume I), refer to the bottom of this post.
The question asked is "what is Judeo-Christian" as so many site America's founding as and how is that so in light of John 14:6?
THE ENTANGLING ALLIANCE OF JEWS AND CHRISTIANS
One of the strangest and most inexplicable movements in approximately two thousand years of Christian history is developing rapidly and almost imperceptibly in our midst at this time. Scan the church notes and news items of lectures in any large daily newspaper for abundant evidence of the reality and growth of an amazing confederacy of Jews and Christians. Jewish Rabbis are frequent speakers in Christian pulpits. The National Conference of Christians and Jews has become a going concern which influences the policy for the major portion of American Protestantism.
Unthinking church laymen accept this situation without even feeling the need of a shock absorber. To them it seems a friendly gesture based upon brotherly love and mutual goodwill. Christian ministers and laymen sit at the feet of Rabbis today rejoicing that they are not as the narrow-minded publicans and sinners. They feel virtuous and proud because of what they term their liberality and tolerance. If an earnest Christian, who cares more for discovering Divine truth than for the tradition of men, ventures to point out the incongruities of such fellowship he is pounced upon with charges of religious bigotry and racial prejudice.
It is not necessary to beat a retreat in the face of such charges if one can be sure that his position is supported by the teachings of the Scriptures. Truth may be “crushed to earth” for a time, but it is sure to “rise again” as inevitably as the handwriting on the wall by the finger of God. In any discussion of this subject there is only one important thing to consider and that is the message of the Bible. What does the Christ of Christianity have to say about this problem? What counsel regarding this matter did the Lord’s chief ambassadors leave for our edification?
Before attempting to answer these questions, let it be understood throughout this discussion that the writer is voicing no personal prejudice nor dislike of the Jewish people. Neither is it stated or implied that all Jews approve of the motives and methods of certain leaders among Jewry whose activities, if not curbed, will bring both Judaism and Christianity into further disrepute among men and into a greater measure of Divine judgment. Let us keep in mind also that leaders of Protestantism who disregard the counsel and warnings of our Lord are equally guilty in making alliances detrimental to His church. As these Protestant officials do not truly represent the main body of Christian believers, so do we recognize that officials of Jewry may fail to represent the majority of their people. While our Lord denounced the crafty and designing officials, He had compassion on the multitude. His example inspires the intent of this discussion.
The Apostle Paul, master interpreter of the Gospel, writing to the Galatian Christians, sounded a warning that could not have been more timely for the day in which it was written than it is for our generation:
”Stand fast therefore in the liberty wherewith Christ hath made you free, and be not entangled again with the yoke of bondage.” (Gal. 5:1.)
Now what was this “yoke of bondage?” It was the saddling of Judaism to the Christian church. Everywhere Paul carried the Gospel of Christ he was followed by Jewish enemies who attempted to control and confuse the Christians. His entire Galatian letter is a powerful dissertation and warning against the entangling alliances of Jews and Christians.
That Jewish leaders are making friendly overtures to Christian churches is evident throughout the country. They are subtly identifying themselves with Christians from the pulpit, on the lecture platform and in the press. A prominent Jewish writer and lecturer is quoted by a reporter as saying in a lecture recently, “Between Christians who are Christians and Jews who are Jews, there can be no differences; we want the same things.”
A Rabbi, claiming to be a pastor of the first American Hebrew-Christian Synagogue, speaking in a church, made the following statements which are quoted at random from notes made at the time: “We have combined Judaism and Christianity….The Jews have their sects, Pharisees, Sadducees, Ashkenazim, Sephardim, etc., today the same as in Jesus’ day….The Rabbis have changed the Old Testament….I lived my whole life without the Bible….The Rabbis consider the Talmudic law more important than the Bible. They use the Torah and Talmud instead of the Bible. The background of the New Testament is Talmudic teaching.”
It was a strange sight to behold in a staid old church, but the Rabbi made a brotherly love plea, then took up a collection and guileless Presbyterians, Methodists and Baptists gave contributions to carry on the spurious work of combining Judaism and Christianity.
Let us now compare a few statements from the Lord Jesus on this subject: “Beware ye of the leaven of the Pharisees, which is hypocrisy. Take heed and beware of the leaven of the Pharisees and of the Saducees. Beware of the scribes.” Luke, in Chapter 20, tells of the chief priests, scribes and elders coming to Jesus questioning His authority. Jesus told the parable of the wicked husbandman and concluded with these words:
"He shall come and destroy these husbandmen, and shall give the vineyard to others.” (Luke 20:16a.)
Now study the result which followed:
"And when they heard it, they said, God forbid. And he beheld them, and said, What is this then that is written, The stone which the builders rejected. The same is become the head of the corner? Whosoever shall fall upon that stone shall be broken; but on whomsoever it shall fall, it will grind him to powder. And the chief priests and the scribes the same hour sought to lay hands on Him; and they feared the people for they perceived that He had spoken this parable against them. And they watched Him, and sent forth spies, which should feign themselves just men, that they might take hold of His words, that so they might deliver Him unto the power and authority of the governor.” (Luke 20:16b-20.)
Matthew 15 records another controversy between Jesus and the leaders of Jewry:
"Ye hypocrites, well did Esais [Isaiah] prophesy unto you, saying, This people draweth nigh unto Me with their mouth, and honoureth Me with their lips; but their heart is far from Me. But in vain they do worship Me, teaching for doctrines the commandments of men….Then came His disciples, and said unto Him, Knowest Thou that the Pharisees were offended, after they heard this saying? But He answered and said, Every plant which My heavenly Father hath not planted, shall be rooted up. Let them alone: they be blind leaders of the blind. And if the blind lead the blind, both shall fall into the ditch.” (Matt. 15:7-9; 12-14.)
From a most casual reading of the Gospels, it is evident that Jesus never identified His work with the program of organized Jewry. If in doubt about this, read carefully John 8. Among many significant statements on that occasion ponder these two statements:
"Jesus said unto them, If God were your Father, ye would love Me: for I proceeded forth and came from God; neither came I of Myself, but He sent Me….He that is of God heareth God’s words: ye therefore hear them not, because ye are not of God.” (John 8:42 & 47.)
Paul did not identify himself and his work with Judaism after his conversion. He makes this clear in the first chapter of his letter to the Galatians:
“Ye have heard of my conversation in time past in the Jews’ religion, how that beyond measure I persecuted the church of God, and wasted it: and profited in the Jews’ religion above many my equals in mine own nation, being more exceedingly zealous of the traditions of my fathers. But when it pleased God, who…called me by His grace, to reveal His Son in me, that I might preach Him among the heathen; immediately I conferred not with flesh and blood: neither went I up to Jerusalem.” (Gal. 1:13-17.)
In 1 Thessalonians 2:14-16, Paul adds further evidence on this point:
”For ye, brethren, became followers of the churches of God which in Judea are in Christ Jesus: for ye also have suffered like things of your own country men, even as they have of the Jews: who both killed the Lord Jesus, and their own prophets, and have persecuted us; and they please not God, and are contrary to all men: forbidding us to speak to the Gentiles that they might be saved, to fill up their sins always: for the wrath is come upon them to the uttermost.”
Peter almost became entangled at one time but was set on the straight and narrow path by Paul who tells us:
”I withstood him to the face, because he was to be blamed.” (Gal. 2:11.)
Some readers may resent the placing of twentieth century Jews in the same category with first century Jews. Have they not changed in 2,000 years? And does not this classification pronounce harsh judgment upon our fellowmen? There have been changes, to be sure --- but not in unregenerate human nature. And it ought to be possible to face facts without passing judgment, harsh or otherwise. Perhaps we can get a clearer perspective by asking some other questions. Have the radiance, power and fruitfulness of those first century Christians been improved during 2,000 years of experience? On the contrary, we find ourselves struggling in the midst of our modern civilization to duplicate the courage and spiritual power of those first Christians. Then again, has sin changed or disappeared in the course of twenty centuries? Is unbelief any different now from what it was when Jesus walked among men? Have the results of rejecting Christ undergone any perceptible changes?
If Christ only has power on earth to forgive sins and regenerate human lives, will someone explain by what process the Jews of today, who still reject Him as Redeemer, have become essentially different from what they were in 30 A. D.?
One need not hesitate to affirm that the leaders of Jewry are not carrying on God’s work, regardless of how pious they may seem, because Jesus says if they were doing God’s work they would recognize Him as the promised Son of God. Do not be deceived by the complimentary things which certain Rabbis and writers are saying about Christianity. Notice that, while they are getting quite “chummy” with Jesus, the man, they are as far away as ever from the Christ who is to take the throne of David and reign over the house of Jacob forever. Matthew tells us:
"While the Pharisees were gathered together, Jesus asked them, saying, What think ye of Christ?” (Matt. 22:41-42.)
The Jews are still silent on that question.
In the record of events leading up to Peter’s denial of Christ, we read:
”Peter followed Him afar off, even into the palace of the high priests: and he sat with the servants, and warmed himself at the fire.” (Mark 14:54.)
This suggests to one’s mind that the palace of the high priest was the farthest point of departure from the Lord. Evidently Peter went in at the back door to sit with the servants. The times do change men’s methods. Today the chief Rabbis are invited to take the seats of honor in the Lord’s sanctuary; though still unbelievers, they sit among the counselors and take part in directing the program of His blood-bought church.
In former days the controversies between Jews and Christians centered in circumcision and in the Talmudic interpretation of laws and ordinances. Modern Jews are not concerned so much about these ancient problems. The emphasis has changed. Now their interest is centered in persuading the Christians to set aside the authority of the Scriptures, substituting therefore “liberalism” --- meaning what? --- atheism and paganism camouflaged.
This is the snare which has most intrigued the leaders of Protestantism. Several volumes could be written about the results that have been accomplished already along this line; for example, the sowing of false doctrines through universities and seminaries into every American hamlet; the control of publicity channels; the propagation of such movements as the Fellowship of Faiths where the Son of God is reduced to the position of understudy of Buddha, Confucius, Mohammed, Indian fakirs, and Persian Bahaists.
A chief Rabbi, speaking recently at a Business and Professional Women’s Club dinner, stated as one of her objectives the “elimination of unfair and untrue statements about Jews in Sunday school literature” --- obviously meaning by this that certain teachings of Jesus must be barred from publication in Christian literature. The work of deleting the Scriptures is under way on a big scale; one such abbreviated Bible, published by a Jewish firm, is being widely advertised by Christian publications and its circulation further enhanced by the Book-of-The-Month-Club offering it as a gift. Attend a meeting in a Christian church which is to be addressed by a Rabbi and observe how the ministers select the hymns, the Scripture readings and the prayers to fit the tender sensitivities of the Jewish brother. All mention of Christ is painstakingly avoided in deference to the visitor. Does God laugh or weep at such strange reversion on the part of men who claim to be redeemed by the sacrifice of His Son on Calvary?
Strange to say the present objectives of Jewry are not new. They bear a striking resemblance to those met by Paul. Writing to Titus, Paul advised:
”For there are many unruly and vain talkers and deceivers, specially they of the circumcision: whose mouths must be stopped, who subvert whole houses, teaching things which they ought not, for filthy lucre’s sake.” (Titus 1:10-11.)
Then he cautioned Titus to warn the Cretians:
”Wherefore rebuke them sharply, that they may be sound in the faith; not giving heed to Jewish fables, and commandments of men, that turn from the truth. Unto the pure all things are pure: but unto them that are defiled and unbelieving is nothing pure; but even their mind and conscience is defiled. They profess that they know God; but in works they deny Him, being abominable, and disobedient, and unto every good work reprobate.” (Titus 1:13-16.)
The Scriptures abound in warnings against Christians forming entangling alliances with unbelievers of all kinds --- Jews and non-Jews:
”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.” (Col. 2:8.)
“Be ye not unequally yoked together with unbelievers: for what fellowship hath righteousness with unrighteousness? and what communion hath light with darkness? And what concord hath Christ with Belial? or what part hath he that believeth with an infidel?...Wherefore come out from among them, and be ye separate, saith the Lord.” (II Cor. 6:14-17.)
Christian leaders must either separate themselves from the evil influences of the enemies of Christ or be overcome by them. The promotion of Jewish-Christian relations on the basis of present-day trends is unfair to the Jews themselves, who will never be brought to a saving knowledge of Christ by such unscriptural methods.
The answer to a vital question is hanging in the balance --- Will Protestantism continue to stand fast in the liberty of Christ, or, will it become increasingly entangled in the bondage of modern Judaism?
===========================
INTRODUCTION
The Staff at Destiny Publishers, having read all the articles written by the late C. R. Dickey (Christina R. Dickey) found in DESTINY Magazines from July 1938 to October 1967, received such a blessing from her writings that we wanted to share the information with all who are seeking God’s wonderful truths. We are hereby publishing all her articles in two volumes, which we believe you will find most inspiring and of genuine interest and value.
Her knowledge of the Scriptures was unbelievable so she must have had a very close association with her Lord, as she certainly became a champion for His cause.
Our late beloved editor, Howard B. Rand, realized her talent as he published many of articles in booklet form.
The reader should take into account the time element when each article was written, which was from the late thirties to the middle sixties. We found her articles to be up to the minute as though she had written them yesterday. Her writings on various subjects are backed up with Scripture verses, as well as with quotes from reliable sources, when making a point. From her writings, the Lord surely made use of her God-given talents.
Although we do not have any knowledge of her background, we do know that she was a Congregational minister. Her sermons given must have been of interest and value to her congregation. We are sure her articles contained in this book will do the same.
The question asked is "what is Judeo-Christian" as so many site America's founding as and how is that so in light of John 14:6?
THE ENTANGLING ALLIANCE OF JEWS AND CHRISTIANS
One of the strangest and most inexplicable movements in approximately two thousand years of Christian history is developing rapidly and almost imperceptibly in our midst at this time. Scan the church notes and news items of lectures in any large daily newspaper for abundant evidence of the reality and growth of an amazing confederacy of Jews and Christians. Jewish Rabbis are frequent speakers in Christian pulpits. The National Conference of Christians and Jews has become a going concern which influences the policy for the major portion of American Protestantism.
Unthinking church laymen accept this situation without even feeling the need of a shock absorber. To them it seems a friendly gesture based upon brotherly love and mutual goodwill. Christian ministers and laymen sit at the feet of Rabbis today rejoicing that they are not as the narrow-minded publicans and sinners. They feel virtuous and proud because of what they term their liberality and tolerance. If an earnest Christian, who cares more for discovering Divine truth than for the tradition of men, ventures to point out the incongruities of such fellowship he is pounced upon with charges of religious bigotry and racial prejudice.
It is not necessary to beat a retreat in the face of such charges if one can be sure that his position is supported by the teachings of the Scriptures. Truth may be “crushed to earth” for a time, but it is sure to “rise again” as inevitably as the handwriting on the wall by the finger of God. In any discussion of this subject there is only one important thing to consider and that is the message of the Bible. What does the Christ of Christianity have to say about this problem? What counsel regarding this matter did the Lord’s chief ambassadors leave for our edification?
Before attempting to answer these questions, let it be understood throughout this discussion that the writer is voicing no personal prejudice nor dislike of the Jewish people. Neither is it stated or implied that all Jews approve of the motives and methods of certain leaders among Jewry whose activities, if not curbed, will bring both Judaism and Christianity into further disrepute among men and into a greater measure of Divine judgment. Let us keep in mind also that leaders of Protestantism who disregard the counsel and warnings of our Lord are equally guilty in making alliances detrimental to His church. As these Protestant officials do not truly represent the main body of Christian believers, so do we recognize that officials of Jewry may fail to represent the majority of their people. While our Lord denounced the crafty and designing officials, He had compassion on the multitude. His example inspires the intent of this discussion.
The Apostle Paul, master interpreter of the Gospel, writing to the Galatian Christians, sounded a warning that could not have been more timely for the day in which it was written than it is for our generation:
”Stand fast therefore in the liberty wherewith Christ hath made you free, and be not entangled again with the yoke of bondage.” (Gal. 5:1.)
Now what was this “yoke of bondage?” It was the saddling of Judaism to the Christian church. Everywhere Paul carried the Gospel of Christ he was followed by Jewish enemies who attempted to control and confuse the Christians. His entire Galatian letter is a powerful dissertation and warning against the entangling alliances of Jews and Christians.
That Jewish leaders are making friendly overtures to Christian churches is evident throughout the country. They are subtly identifying themselves with Christians from the pulpit, on the lecture platform and in the press. A prominent Jewish writer and lecturer is quoted by a reporter as saying in a lecture recently, “Between Christians who are Christians and Jews who are Jews, there can be no differences; we want the same things.”
A Rabbi, claiming to be a pastor of the first American Hebrew-Christian Synagogue, speaking in a church, made the following statements which are quoted at random from notes made at the time: “We have combined Judaism and Christianity….The Jews have their sects, Pharisees, Sadducees, Ashkenazim, Sephardim, etc., today the same as in Jesus’ day….The Rabbis have changed the Old Testament….I lived my whole life without the Bible….The Rabbis consider the Talmudic law more important than the Bible. They use the Torah and Talmud instead of the Bible. The background of the New Testament is Talmudic teaching.”
It was a strange sight to behold in a staid old church, but the Rabbi made a brotherly love plea, then took up a collection and guileless Presbyterians, Methodists and Baptists gave contributions to carry on the spurious work of combining Judaism and Christianity.
Let us now compare a few statements from the Lord Jesus on this subject: “Beware ye of the leaven of the Pharisees, which is hypocrisy. Take heed and beware of the leaven of the Pharisees and of the Saducees. Beware of the scribes.” Luke, in Chapter 20, tells of the chief priests, scribes and elders coming to Jesus questioning His authority. Jesus told the parable of the wicked husbandman and concluded with these words:
"He shall come and destroy these husbandmen, and shall give the vineyard to others.” (Luke 20:16a.)
Now study the result which followed:
"And when they heard it, they said, God forbid. And he beheld them, and said, What is this then that is written, The stone which the builders rejected. The same is become the head of the corner? Whosoever shall fall upon that stone shall be broken; but on whomsoever it shall fall, it will grind him to powder. And the chief priests and the scribes the same hour sought to lay hands on Him; and they feared the people for they perceived that He had spoken this parable against them. And they watched Him, and sent forth spies, which should feign themselves just men, that they might take hold of His words, that so they might deliver Him unto the power and authority of the governor.” (Luke 20:16b-20.)
Matthew 15 records another controversy between Jesus and the leaders of Jewry:
"Ye hypocrites, well did Esais [Isaiah] prophesy unto you, saying, This people draweth nigh unto Me with their mouth, and honoureth Me with their lips; but their heart is far from Me. But in vain they do worship Me, teaching for doctrines the commandments of men….Then came His disciples, and said unto Him, Knowest Thou that the Pharisees were offended, after they heard this saying? But He answered and said, Every plant which My heavenly Father hath not planted, shall be rooted up. Let them alone: they be blind leaders of the blind. And if the blind lead the blind, both shall fall into the ditch.” (Matt. 15:7-9; 12-14.)
From a most casual reading of the Gospels, it is evident that Jesus never identified His work with the program of organized Jewry. If in doubt about this, read carefully John 8. Among many significant statements on that occasion ponder these two statements:
"Jesus said unto them, If God were your Father, ye would love Me: for I proceeded forth and came from God; neither came I of Myself, but He sent Me….He that is of God heareth God’s words: ye therefore hear them not, because ye are not of God.” (John 8:42 & 47.)
Paul did not identify himself and his work with Judaism after his conversion. He makes this clear in the first chapter of his letter to the Galatians:
“Ye have heard of my conversation in time past in the Jews’ religion, how that beyond measure I persecuted the church of God, and wasted it: and profited in the Jews’ religion above many my equals in mine own nation, being more exceedingly zealous of the traditions of my fathers. But when it pleased God, who…called me by His grace, to reveal His Son in me, that I might preach Him among the heathen; immediately I conferred not with flesh and blood: neither went I up to Jerusalem.” (Gal. 1:13-17.)
In 1 Thessalonians 2:14-16, Paul adds further evidence on this point:
”For ye, brethren, became followers of the churches of God which in Judea are in Christ Jesus: for ye also have suffered like things of your own country men, even as they have of the Jews: who both killed the Lord Jesus, and their own prophets, and have persecuted us; and they please not God, and are contrary to all men: forbidding us to speak to the Gentiles that they might be saved, to fill up their sins always: for the wrath is come upon them to the uttermost.”
Peter almost became entangled at one time but was set on the straight and narrow path by Paul who tells us:
”I withstood him to the face, because he was to be blamed.” (Gal. 2:11.)
Some readers may resent the placing of twentieth century Jews in the same category with first century Jews. Have they not changed in 2,000 years? And does not this classification pronounce harsh judgment upon our fellowmen? There have been changes, to be sure --- but not in unregenerate human nature. And it ought to be possible to face facts without passing judgment, harsh or otherwise. Perhaps we can get a clearer perspective by asking some other questions. Have the radiance, power and fruitfulness of those first century Christians been improved during 2,000 years of experience? On the contrary, we find ourselves struggling in the midst of our modern civilization to duplicate the courage and spiritual power of those first Christians. Then again, has sin changed or disappeared in the course of twenty centuries? Is unbelief any different now from what it was when Jesus walked among men? Have the results of rejecting Christ undergone any perceptible changes?
If Christ only has power on earth to forgive sins and regenerate human lives, will someone explain by what process the Jews of today, who still reject Him as Redeemer, have become essentially different from what they were in 30 A. D.?
One need not hesitate to affirm that the leaders of Jewry are not carrying on God’s work, regardless of how pious they may seem, because Jesus says if they were doing God’s work they would recognize Him as the promised Son of God. Do not be deceived by the complimentary things which certain Rabbis and writers are saying about Christianity. Notice that, while they are getting quite “chummy” with Jesus, the man, they are as far away as ever from the Christ who is to take the throne of David and reign over the house of Jacob forever. Matthew tells us:
"While the Pharisees were gathered together, Jesus asked them, saying, What think ye of Christ?” (Matt. 22:41-42.)
The Jews are still silent on that question.
In the record of events leading up to Peter’s denial of Christ, we read:
”Peter followed Him afar off, even into the palace of the high priests: and he sat with the servants, and warmed himself at the fire.” (Mark 14:54.)
This suggests to one’s mind that the palace of the high priest was the farthest point of departure from the Lord. Evidently Peter went in at the back door to sit with the servants. The times do change men’s methods. Today the chief Rabbis are invited to take the seats of honor in the Lord’s sanctuary; though still unbelievers, they sit among the counselors and take part in directing the program of His blood-bought church.
In former days the controversies between Jews and Christians centered in circumcision and in the Talmudic interpretation of laws and ordinances. Modern Jews are not concerned so much about these ancient problems. The emphasis has changed. Now their interest is centered in persuading the Christians to set aside the authority of the Scriptures, substituting therefore “liberalism” --- meaning what? --- atheism and paganism camouflaged.
This is the snare which has most intrigued the leaders of Protestantism. Several volumes could be written about the results that have been accomplished already along this line; for example, the sowing of false doctrines through universities and seminaries into every American hamlet; the control of publicity channels; the propagation of such movements as the Fellowship of Faiths where the Son of God is reduced to the position of understudy of Buddha, Confucius, Mohammed, Indian fakirs, and Persian Bahaists.
A chief Rabbi, speaking recently at a Business and Professional Women’s Club dinner, stated as one of her objectives the “elimination of unfair and untrue statements about Jews in Sunday school literature” --- obviously meaning by this that certain teachings of Jesus must be barred from publication in Christian literature. The work of deleting the Scriptures is under way on a big scale; one such abbreviated Bible, published by a Jewish firm, is being widely advertised by Christian publications and its circulation further enhanced by the Book-of-The-Month-Club offering it as a gift. Attend a meeting in a Christian church which is to be addressed by a Rabbi and observe how the ministers select the hymns, the Scripture readings and the prayers to fit the tender sensitivities of the Jewish brother. All mention of Christ is painstakingly avoided in deference to the visitor. Does God laugh or weep at such strange reversion on the part of men who claim to be redeemed by the sacrifice of His Son on Calvary?
Strange to say the present objectives of Jewry are not new. They bear a striking resemblance to those met by Paul. Writing to Titus, Paul advised:
”For there are many unruly and vain talkers and deceivers, specially they of the circumcision: whose mouths must be stopped, who subvert whole houses, teaching things which they ought not, for filthy lucre’s sake.” (Titus 1:10-11.)
Then he cautioned Titus to warn the Cretians:
”Wherefore rebuke them sharply, that they may be sound in the faith; not giving heed to Jewish fables, and commandments of men, that turn from the truth. Unto the pure all things are pure: but unto them that are defiled and unbelieving is nothing pure; but even their mind and conscience is defiled. They profess that they know God; but in works they deny Him, being abominable, and disobedient, and unto every good work reprobate.” (Titus 1:13-16.)
The Scriptures abound in warnings against Christians forming entangling alliances with unbelievers of all kinds --- Jews and non-Jews:
”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.” (Col. 2:8.)
“Be ye not unequally yoked together with unbelievers: for what fellowship hath righteousness with unrighteousness? and what communion hath light with darkness? And what concord hath Christ with Belial? or what part hath he that believeth with an infidel?...Wherefore come out from among them, and be ye separate, saith the Lord.” (II Cor. 6:14-17.)
Christian leaders must either separate themselves from the evil influences of the enemies of Christ or be overcome by them. The promotion of Jewish-Christian relations on the basis of present-day trends is unfair to the Jews themselves, who will never be brought to a saving knowledge of Christ by such unscriptural methods.
The answer to a vital question is hanging in the balance --- Will Protestantism continue to stand fast in the liberty of Christ, or, will it become increasingly entangled in the bondage of modern Judaism?
===========================
INTRODUCTION
The Staff at Destiny Publishers, having read all the articles written by the late C. R. Dickey (Christina R. Dickey) found in DESTINY Magazines from July 1938 to October 1967, received such a blessing from her writings that we wanted to share the information with all who are seeking God’s wonderful truths. We are hereby publishing all her articles in two volumes, which we believe you will find most inspiring and of genuine interest and value.
Her knowledge of the Scriptures was unbelievable so she must have had a very close association with her Lord, as she certainly became a champion for His cause.
Our late beloved editor, Howard B. Rand, realized her talent as he published many of articles in booklet form.
The reader should take into account the time element when each article was written, which was from the late thirties to the middle sixties. We found her articles to be up to the minute as though she had written them yesterday. Her writings on various subjects are backed up with Scripture verses, as well as with quotes from reliable sources, when making a point. From her writings, the Lord surely made use of her God-given talents.
Although we do not have any knowledge of her background, we do know that she was a Congregational minister. Her sermons given must have been of interest and value to her congregation. We are sure her articles contained in this book will do the same.
Saturday, April 3, 2010
Happy Passover
Today at sundown, we celebrate Passover. This is why we celebrate.
I Corinthians 5:7-8 Purge out therefore the old leaven, that ye may be a new lump, as ye are unleavened. For even Christ our passover is sacrificed for us: Therefore let us keep the feast, not with old leaven, neither with the leaven of malice and wickedness; but with the unleavened bread of sincerity and truth.
Leaven is yeast which when it is mixed in the dough affects the whole lump of dough and it represents sin that Jesus came to forgive us for not being perfect so we can be a new lump.
Matthew 27:50-53 Jesus, when He had cried again with a loud voice, yielded up the ghost. And, behold, the veil of the Temple was rent in twain from the top to the bottom; and the earth did quake, and the rocks rent; And the graves were opened; and many bodies of the saints which slept arose, And came out of the graves after His resurrection, and went into the Holy City and appeared unto many.
John 15:11 These things have I spoken unto you, that My joy might remain in you, and that your joy might be full.
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.
Isaiah 7:14 Therefore the Lord Himself shall give you a sign; Behold a virgin shall conceive, and bear a son, and shall call his name Immanuel.
Immanuel=God with us, Strong's Concordance Hebrew and Chaldee dictionary, page 89 #6005'Immanuw'el, im-maw-noo-ale'; with us (is) God)
Because of Jesus being the perfect sacrifice that covers all our sins, He gave us power in His Name over all evil.
Luke 10:19 Behold, I give unto you power to tread on serpents and scorpions, and over all the power of the enemy: and nothing shall by any means hurt you.
And evil/the destroyer must pass over us like it did in Egypt for those who had the blood of the lamb on their door posts (Exodus 11 and 12), like we now have the blood of the Lamb of Christ on the door posts of our mind through studying and understanding His Word now.
Exodus 12:23-25 For the Lord will pass through to smite the Egyptians; and when He seeth the blood upon the lintel and the two side posts, the Lord will pass over the door and will not suffer the destroyer to come in unto your houses to smite you. And ye shall observe this thing for an ordinance to thee and to thy sons for ever. And it shall come to pass, when ye be come to the land which the Lord will give you according as He hath promised, that ye shall keep this service.
Jesus Christ IS the Living Word.
Psalms 40:7-8 Then said I, Lo, I come : in the volume of the book it is written of me,I delight to do Thy will, O my God.
Hebrews 10:7 Then said I , Lo , I come (in the volume of the book it is written of me,) to do thy will, O God.
Another thing to check out . . .
http://www.biblestudytools.com/search/?q=Passover&rc=CON&rc2=&ps=10&s=References
http://www.blueletterbible.org/search/translationResults.cfm?Criteria=easter&t=KJV
http://www.blueletterbible.org/lang/lexicon/lexicon.cfm?Strongs=G3957&t=KJV
http://www.blueletterbible.org/search/translationResults.cfm?Criteria=passover&t=KJV
http://www.blueletterbible.org/lang/lexicon/lexicon.cfm?Strongs=G3957&t=KJV
http://dictionary.reference.com/browse/easter
Easter-Origin:
bef. 900; ME ester, OE ēastre; c. G Ostern; orig. name of a goddess and her festival; akin to east
OR go to your Strong's Exhaustive Concordance and look up the original word that the translators translated to 'easter'. You will find 'easter' on page 293 in the right hand column. Only one time is it found in the English version of the Bible. The word it was translated from is #3957 in the Greek Dictionary portion, (you will find it on page 56 in the Greek portion of the Strong's Exhaustive Concordance)pascha; [comp. #6453 in Hebrew] the Passover (the meal, the day, the festival, or the special sacrifices connected with it).
Now look up the word "Passover" on pages 774-775. There are 48 times in the Hebrew that #6453 pecach in the Hebrew Dictionary was translated "Passover" and there are 28 times in the Greek that #3957 pascha was translated "Passover". Only one time in Acts 12:4 was that exact same word #3957 suddenly translated to 'easter'. Why? If an error in translating was made, which word is most likely the error? Which is the truth?
God bless you and all you love. Happy Passover.
God bless you and all you love. Happy Passover.
Love in Jesus Christ,
Gina
I Corinthians 5:7-8 Purge out therefore the old leaven, that ye may be a new lump, as ye are unleavened. For even Christ our passover is sacrificed for us: Therefore let us keep the feast, not with old leaven, neither with the leaven of malice and wickedness; but with the unleavened bread of sincerity and truth.
Leaven is yeast which when it is mixed in the dough affects the whole lump of dough and it represents sin that Jesus came to forgive us for not being perfect so we can be a new lump.
Matthew 27:50-53 Jesus, when He had cried again with a loud voice, yielded up the ghost. And, behold, the veil of the Temple was rent in twain from the top to the bottom; and the earth did quake, and the rocks rent; And the graves were opened; and many bodies of the saints which slept arose, And came out of the graves after His resurrection, and went into the Holy City and appeared unto many.
John 15:11 These things have I spoken unto you, that My joy might remain in you, and that your joy might be full.
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.
Isaiah 7:14 Therefore the Lord Himself shall give you a sign; Behold a virgin shall conceive, and bear a son, and shall call his name Immanuel.
Immanuel=God with us, Strong's Concordance Hebrew and Chaldee dictionary, page 89 #6005'Immanuw'el, im-maw-noo-ale'; with us (is) God)
Because of Jesus being the perfect sacrifice that covers all our sins, He gave us power in His Name over all evil.
Luke 10:19 Behold, I give unto you power to tread on serpents and scorpions, and over all the power of the enemy: and nothing shall by any means hurt you.
And evil/the destroyer must pass over us like it did in Egypt for those who had the blood of the lamb on their door posts (Exodus 11 and 12), like we now have the blood of the Lamb of Christ on the door posts of our mind through studying and understanding His Word now.
Exodus 12:23-25 For the Lord will pass through to smite the Egyptians; and when He seeth the blood upon the lintel and the two side posts, the Lord will pass over the door and will not suffer the destroyer to come in unto your houses to smite you. And ye shall observe this thing for an ordinance to thee and to thy sons for ever. And it shall come to pass, when ye be come to the land which the Lord will give you according as He hath promised, that ye shall keep this service.
Jesus Christ IS the Living Word.
Psalms 40:7-8 Then said I, Lo, I come : in the volume of the book it is written of me,I delight to do Thy will, O my God.
Hebrews 10:7 Then said I , Lo , I come (in the volume of the book it is written of me,) to do thy will, O God.
Another thing to check out . . .
http://www.biblestudytools.com/search/?q=Passover&rc=CON&rc2=&ps=10&s=References
http://www.blueletterbible.org/search/translationResults.cfm?Criteria=easter&t=KJV
http://www.blueletterbible.org/lang/lexicon/lexicon.cfm?Strongs=G3957&t=KJV
http://www.blueletterbible.org/search/translationResults.cfm?Criteria=passover&t=KJV
http://www.blueletterbible.org/lang/lexicon/lexicon.cfm?Strongs=G3957&t=KJV
http://dictionary.reference.com/browse/easter
Easter-Origin:
bef. 900; ME ester, OE ēastre; c. G Ostern; orig. name of a goddess and her festival; akin to east
OR go to your Strong's Exhaustive Concordance and look up the original word that the translators translated to 'easter'. You will find 'easter' on page 293 in the right hand column. Only one time is it found in the English version of the Bible. The word it was translated from is #3957 in the Greek Dictionary portion, (you will find it on page 56 in the Greek portion of the Strong's Exhaustive Concordance)pascha; [comp. #6453 in Hebrew] the Passover (the meal, the day, the festival, or the special sacrifices connected with it).
Now look up the word "Passover" on pages 774-775. There are 48 times in the Hebrew that #6453 pecach in the Hebrew Dictionary was translated "Passover" and there are 28 times in the Greek that #3957 pascha was translated "Passover". Only one time in Acts 12:4 was that exact same word #3957 suddenly translated to 'easter'. Why? If an error in translating was made, which word is most likely the error? Which is the truth?
God bless you and all you love. Happy Passover.
God bless you and all you love. Happy Passover.
Love in Jesus Christ,
Gina
Friday, March 5, 2010
The Waters of Shiloah - CR Dickey
I am always amazed at how timely Christina's articles from 1937-1968 are. The ages old war from Genesis 3:15 continues today and the Truth still pertains. Do you think God cares about elections among free people?
THE WATERS OF SHILOAH
Sometimes one’s imagination is captivated by the beauty of a phrase in the Scriptures which, for the moment, appears to be out of harmony with its context. Such an appealing phrase is found in Isaiah’s eighth chapter where the prophet mentions “the waters of Shiloah that go softly.”
The words “Shiloah” and “Siloam” mean “a sending of waters,” as through an aqueduct. Concerning these words, Dr. John D. Davis writes in his Bible Dictionary:
“Siloam --- a pool at Jerusalem (John 9:7), probably identical with Shiloah, the waters of which go softly (Isa. 8:6), and the pool of Shelah, which was by the King’s garden (Neh. 3:15). Josephus says that it was situated…near a bend of the old wall beneath Ophel….The fountain is a small upper basin excavated in the rock. From the lower reservoir, the water flows in a small rill across the road and irrigates gardens in the Kidron valley.”
Now that we have located Shiloah, where the waters go softly, let us read the strange setting of these words in Isaiah’s prophecy, verses 5-8, Smith and Goodspeed Translation:
“Once more the Lord spoke to me, saying,
‘Because this people have spurned
The waters of Shiloah, that flow gently,
And melt in fear before Rezin and the son
Of Remaliah,
Behold, the Lord is bringing up against
Them
The waters of the River, mighty and many,
Even the king of Assyria and all his glory;
And it shall rise over all its channels,
And shall pass over all its banks,
And shall sweep on through Judah, in an
Overwhelming flood,
And shall reach as high as the neck.’”
When Isaiah’s prophecy was spoken, the forces of Syria and Israel were being swept into captivity by the triumphant Assyrian host. As one writer aptly comments on the situation:
“No doubt Ahaz and his court felt they could afford to laugh at Isaiah, who had steadily opposed the alliance which appeared to have been so advantageous. But the triumph of the wicked is short. The unholy success in which bad men rejoice contains within itself the seeds of peril and pain, of retribution and ruin. The ally in whom Ahaz had trusted presently became his oppressor; it was a verification in actual life of the fable of the horse that took a man for its ally. So it is today with all who prosper without God and against God. Their prosperity is, strictly speaking, unnatural, and everything that is unnatural speedily brings on disorder.”
The fulfillment of Isaiah’s prophecy is recorded in II Chronicles 28: 6, as follows:
“For Pekah the son of Remaliah slew in Judah an hundred and twenty thousand in one day, which were all valiant men; because they had forsaken the Lord God of their fathers.”
When prophecy and facts are brought together the meaning of Isaiah’s symbolism becomes clear. “The waters of Shiloah that go softly” symbolize the tender solicitude of God for His people, and the help of His strong arm which is available at all times when they seek Him in faith. The waters of the overflowing River symbolize the might of Assyria’s king and the devastation which would sweep over Judah. In comparison with the mighty Euprates, the little stream of Shiloah seemed wholly inadequate and unworthy of consideration; so the people spurned the one course that could have saved them. Both Israel and Judah were swept by overwhelming floods again and again because they refused the gentle stream of heavenly love and protection. In the Song of Solomon, the potent waters of Shiloah are described as:
“A fountain of gardens, a well of living waters, and streams from Lebanon.” (Song of Solomon 4:15.)
Mingled with rebukes and warnings to both the houses of Israel, Isaiah inserts this paragraph of finality and hope:
“I will bind up my testimony, and seal my teaching in the heart of my disciples. Then I will wait for the Lord, who is hiding his face from the house of Israel; I will set my hope on him, while I and the children whom the Lord has given me remain as signs and symbols in Israel from the Lord of hosts, who dwells on Mount Zion.” (Isa. 8:16-18, Smith & Goodspeed Trans.)
These words are of special significance and must have been in Isaiah’s mind when he wrote the next chapter, which contains his great prophecy concerning Christ’s birth and His future reign upon the throne of David. The familiar lines cannot be quoted too often as the day approaches for their complete fulfillment:
“For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace. Of the increase of his government and peace there shall be no end, upon the throne of David, and upon his kingdom, to order it, and to establish it with judgment and with justice from henceforth even for ever.” (Isa. 9:6-7.)
Looking forward to the coming of Israel’s Redeemer, Zechariah wrote:
“In that day there shall be a fountain opened in the house of David and to the inhabitants of Jerusalem for sin and for uncleanness.” (Zech. 13:1.)
That fountain was opened freely for all the world when Jesus the Christ came and walked among His people to teach them, heal them, and give His own precious blood to save them from sin and death. In conversation with the Samaritan woman at Jacob’s well, Jesus said to her:
“Anyone who drinks this water will be thirsty again, but anyone who drinks the water that I will give him will never be thirsty, but the water that I will give him will become a spring of water within him, bubbling up for eternal life.” (John 4:13-14, Smith & Goodspeed Trans.)
The seventh chapter of John’s Gospel reports the controversy which raged over the identity of Jesus at the feast of the tabernacles. John says that on the last day of the festival, which was the greatest, Jesus stood up and cried out:
“If anyone is thirsty, let him come to me and drink. If anyone believes in me, streams of living water, as the Scripture says, shall flow forth from his heart.” (John 7:38, Smith & Goodspeed Trans.)
Waters that flow gently from this spiritual fountain are the source of cleansing and healing. Jesus said to the man who was born blind. “Go wash in the pool of Siloam” (John 9:7). We are told that the man went his way, washed as he was told to do, “and came seeing.”
In Isaiah 9:16, it is written, “For the leaders of this people cause them to err.” It has ever been so. The nations of Christendom are in their present woeful plight because our leaders, too, have refused “the waters that go softly.” Consequently, the Lord has brought upon them an overflowing tide of Communism and general subversion, as the evil fruits of rebellion against His expressed will for them. The Heavenly Father laments:
“O that thou hadst hearkened to my commandments! then had thy peace been as a river, and thy righteousness as the waves of the sea.” (Isa. 48:18.)
Again He said:
“I am the Lord thy God which teacheth thee to profit, which leadeth thee by the way that thou shouldest go.” (Isa. 48:17.)
But, as Israel nations in the world today, we are refusing to drink at the fountain of living waters. Like Judah and Israel of old, we are now floundering in an overwhelming flood tide of evil, “as high as the neck,” almost submerged, but not quite. God is sovereign over all the earth. “All governments are but instruments which He uses when and as He pleases” --- a thought of comfort for the obedient, of terror for the disobedient.
Leaders of nations predominantly Christian in belief should beware of trifling with the basic principles of Divine law and mercy. There is a tendency among political leaders to think that, because God has especially blessed our nation in the past, we may now sin with less risk than other peoples. Such is not the case, for those who attempt to use the grace of God for their own selfish ends will meet the sorer punishment than infidels. Jeremiah says of such leaders and their followers:
“Hath a nation changed their gods, which are yet no gods? But my people have changed their glory for that which doth not profit….For my people have committed two evils; they have forsaken me the fountain of living waters, and hewed them out cisterns, broken cisterns, that can hold no water.” (Jer. 2:11, 13.)
Many churchgoing people consider it a mark of sanctity to refrain from active participation in the affairs of local, state and national government. Yet it is a fact that the Bible bears witness against this foolish idea. The Preacher’s Homiletic Commentary, in Isaiah, Volume I, contains some statements which are timeless in their application, and certainly of vital importance to all Western nations today. We quote at some length from pages 173-174:
“God’s people are to be ‘a peculiar people.’ Their whole life is to be governed by Divine principles. By these principles they will be saved from the grievous practical heresy of abstention from public life. Civilized life, especially in a free community, is a partnership, and no man has a right to take all the advantages of a partnership and evade all its labors and obligations. We are bound to labor as well as pray, that God’s will may be done on earth as it is in heaven. The result of abstention on the part of Christian men from public life is the domination of bad men, and the employment of the resources of the community for evil purposes. ‘The wicked walk on every side, when the vilest men are exalted’ (Psalm 12:8).
“If we need example in this matter, we have the example of the prophets, who were much more than preachers of a monastic piety: they were active politicians, and yet politicians of an utterly unworldly type. By these principles they will be guided and kept amid all the duties and difficulties of public life. They will be uplifted above party spirit in all its narrow and debasing forms. Theirs will be that true patriotism which consists in a steady loyalty to truth, and righteousness, and mercy. If we are to be Biblical politicians, and this is the duty of every man among us, we shall not necessarily be found on the side of the majority. How often God’s people have been called to stand in what is called a ‘miserable minority’!
“We shall not necessarily share in the prevalent feelings of our time, whether they be those of fear or hope. We shall know that no permanent hurt can be done to our nation while it is in pursuit of righteousness, and that no real advantage can be gained by methods that will not bear the Divine scrutiny. Our supreme desire will be, not to conciliate men, but to please God. We shall consider all public questions, and vote for, or withhold our vote from, all public men, as in His sight (Heb. 11:27). This may cause us often to cut ourselves off from our ‘party,’ but this will not trouble us. Hostility may thus be excited against us --- will be excited against us, for such ‘impracticable men’ are the abhorrence of mere politicians; but then God Himself will be to us ‘for a sanctuary.’ We shall never lose sight of the fact that the penalty of ungodliness in public life is ruin.”
Speaking to redeemed Israel, the covenant peoples who have confessed the lordship of Jesus Christ in the latter days, Isaiah said:
“They shall not hunger nor thirst; neither shall the heat nor sun smite them: for he that hath mercy on them shall lead them, even by the springs of water shall he guide them.” (Isa. 49:10.)
The waters of Shiloah that go softly rise from mysterious depths, unknown to man. They issue from “that land which human eye has not seen, of which the Lord God Almighty and the Lamb are the temple.” The prophet Ezekiel saw the stream coming from under the right side of the temple (47:1); and John, in his apocalyptic vision, saw it proceeding out of the throne of God and of the Lamb (Rev. 22:1). Hence he could say with absolute assurance:
“The Lamb which is in the midst of the throne shall feed them, and shall lead them unto living fountains of waters: and God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes.” (Rev. 7:17.)
--------------------
Article from Biblical Treasures (Volume I) – C. R. Dickey
INTRODUCTION
The Staff at Destiny Publishers, having read all the articles written by the late C. R. Dickey (Christina R. Dickey) found in DESTINY Magazines from July 1938 to October 1967, received such a blessing from her writings that we wanted to share the information with all who are seeking God’s wonderful truths. We are hereby publishing all her articles in two volumes, which we believe you will find most inspiring and of genuine interest and value.
Her knowledge of the Scriptures was unbelievable so she must have had a very close association with her Lord, as she certainly became a champion for His cause.
Our late beloved editor, Howard B. Rand, realized her talent as he published many of articles in booklet form.
The reader should take into account the time element when each article was written, which was from the late thirties to the middle sixties. We found her articles to be up to the minute as though she had written them yesterday. Her writings on various subjects are backed up with Scripture verses, as well as with quotes from reliable sources, when making a point. From her writings, the Lord surely made use of her God-given talents.
Although we do not have any knowledge of her background, we do know that she was a Congregational minister. Her sermons given must have been of interest and value to her congregation. We are sure her articles contained in this book will do the same.
==============================
THE WATERS OF SHILOAH
Sometimes one’s imagination is captivated by the beauty of a phrase in the Scriptures which, for the moment, appears to be out of harmony with its context. Such an appealing phrase is found in Isaiah’s eighth chapter where the prophet mentions “the waters of Shiloah that go softly.”
The words “Shiloah” and “Siloam” mean “a sending of waters,” as through an aqueduct. Concerning these words, Dr. John D. Davis writes in his Bible Dictionary:
“Siloam --- a pool at Jerusalem (John 9:7), probably identical with Shiloah, the waters of which go softly (Isa. 8:6), and the pool of Shelah, which was by the King’s garden (Neh. 3:15). Josephus says that it was situated…near a bend of the old wall beneath Ophel….The fountain is a small upper basin excavated in the rock. From the lower reservoir, the water flows in a small rill across the road and irrigates gardens in the Kidron valley.”
Now that we have located Shiloah, where the waters go softly, let us read the strange setting of these words in Isaiah’s prophecy, verses 5-8, Smith and Goodspeed Translation:
“Once more the Lord spoke to me, saying,
‘Because this people have spurned
The waters of Shiloah, that flow gently,
And melt in fear before Rezin and the son
Of Remaliah,
Behold, the Lord is bringing up against
Them
The waters of the River, mighty and many,
Even the king of Assyria and all his glory;
And it shall rise over all its channels,
And shall pass over all its banks,
And shall sweep on through Judah, in an
Overwhelming flood,
And shall reach as high as the neck.’”
When Isaiah’s prophecy was spoken, the forces of Syria and Israel were being swept into captivity by the triumphant Assyrian host. As one writer aptly comments on the situation:
“No doubt Ahaz and his court felt they could afford to laugh at Isaiah, who had steadily opposed the alliance which appeared to have been so advantageous. But the triumph of the wicked is short. The unholy success in which bad men rejoice contains within itself the seeds of peril and pain, of retribution and ruin. The ally in whom Ahaz had trusted presently became his oppressor; it was a verification in actual life of the fable of the horse that took a man for its ally. So it is today with all who prosper without God and against God. Their prosperity is, strictly speaking, unnatural, and everything that is unnatural speedily brings on disorder.”
The fulfillment of Isaiah’s prophecy is recorded in II Chronicles 28: 6, as follows:
“For Pekah the son of Remaliah slew in Judah an hundred and twenty thousand in one day, which were all valiant men; because they had forsaken the Lord God of their fathers.”
When prophecy and facts are brought together the meaning of Isaiah’s symbolism becomes clear. “The waters of Shiloah that go softly” symbolize the tender solicitude of God for His people, and the help of His strong arm which is available at all times when they seek Him in faith. The waters of the overflowing River symbolize the might of Assyria’s king and the devastation which would sweep over Judah. In comparison with the mighty Euprates, the little stream of Shiloah seemed wholly inadequate and unworthy of consideration; so the people spurned the one course that could have saved them. Both Israel and Judah were swept by overwhelming floods again and again because they refused the gentle stream of heavenly love and protection. In the Song of Solomon, the potent waters of Shiloah are described as:
“A fountain of gardens, a well of living waters, and streams from Lebanon.” (Song of Solomon 4:15.)
Mingled with rebukes and warnings to both the houses of Israel, Isaiah inserts this paragraph of finality and hope:
“I will bind up my testimony, and seal my teaching in the heart of my disciples. Then I will wait for the Lord, who is hiding his face from the house of Israel; I will set my hope on him, while I and the children whom the Lord has given me remain as signs and symbols in Israel from the Lord of hosts, who dwells on Mount Zion.” (Isa. 8:16-18, Smith & Goodspeed Trans.)
These words are of special significance and must have been in Isaiah’s mind when he wrote the next chapter, which contains his great prophecy concerning Christ’s birth and His future reign upon the throne of David. The familiar lines cannot be quoted too often as the day approaches for their complete fulfillment:
“For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace. Of the increase of his government and peace there shall be no end, upon the throne of David, and upon his kingdom, to order it, and to establish it with judgment and with justice from henceforth even for ever.” (Isa. 9:6-7.)
Looking forward to the coming of Israel’s Redeemer, Zechariah wrote:
“In that day there shall be a fountain opened in the house of David and to the inhabitants of Jerusalem for sin and for uncleanness.” (Zech. 13:1.)
That fountain was opened freely for all the world when Jesus the Christ came and walked among His people to teach them, heal them, and give His own precious blood to save them from sin and death. In conversation with the Samaritan woman at Jacob’s well, Jesus said to her:
“Anyone who drinks this water will be thirsty again, but anyone who drinks the water that I will give him will never be thirsty, but the water that I will give him will become a spring of water within him, bubbling up for eternal life.” (John 4:13-14, Smith & Goodspeed Trans.)
The seventh chapter of John’s Gospel reports the controversy which raged over the identity of Jesus at the feast of the tabernacles. John says that on the last day of the festival, which was the greatest, Jesus stood up and cried out:
“If anyone is thirsty, let him come to me and drink. If anyone believes in me, streams of living water, as the Scripture says, shall flow forth from his heart.” (John 7:38, Smith & Goodspeed Trans.)
Waters that flow gently from this spiritual fountain are the source of cleansing and healing. Jesus said to the man who was born blind. “Go wash in the pool of Siloam” (John 9:7). We are told that the man went his way, washed as he was told to do, “and came seeing.”
In Isaiah 9:16, it is written, “For the leaders of this people cause them to err.” It has ever been so. The nations of Christendom are in their present woeful plight because our leaders, too, have refused “the waters that go softly.” Consequently, the Lord has brought upon them an overflowing tide of Communism and general subversion, as the evil fruits of rebellion against His expressed will for them. The Heavenly Father laments:
“O that thou hadst hearkened to my commandments! then had thy peace been as a river, and thy righteousness as the waves of the sea.” (Isa. 48:18.)
Again He said:
“I am the Lord thy God which teacheth thee to profit, which leadeth thee by the way that thou shouldest go.” (Isa. 48:17.)
But, as Israel nations in the world today, we are refusing to drink at the fountain of living waters. Like Judah and Israel of old, we are now floundering in an overwhelming flood tide of evil, “as high as the neck,” almost submerged, but not quite. God is sovereign over all the earth. “All governments are but instruments which He uses when and as He pleases” --- a thought of comfort for the obedient, of terror for the disobedient.
Leaders of nations predominantly Christian in belief should beware of trifling with the basic principles of Divine law and mercy. There is a tendency among political leaders to think that, because God has especially blessed our nation in the past, we may now sin with less risk than other peoples. Such is not the case, for those who attempt to use the grace of God for their own selfish ends will meet the sorer punishment than infidels. Jeremiah says of such leaders and their followers:
“Hath a nation changed their gods, which are yet no gods? But my people have changed their glory for that which doth not profit….For my people have committed two evils; they have forsaken me the fountain of living waters, and hewed them out cisterns, broken cisterns, that can hold no water.” (Jer. 2:11, 13.)
Many churchgoing people consider it a mark of sanctity to refrain from active participation in the affairs of local, state and national government. Yet it is a fact that the Bible bears witness against this foolish idea. The Preacher’s Homiletic Commentary, in Isaiah, Volume I, contains some statements which are timeless in their application, and certainly of vital importance to all Western nations today. We quote at some length from pages 173-174:
“God’s people are to be ‘a peculiar people.’ Their whole life is to be governed by Divine principles. By these principles they will be saved from the grievous practical heresy of abstention from public life. Civilized life, especially in a free community, is a partnership, and no man has a right to take all the advantages of a partnership and evade all its labors and obligations. We are bound to labor as well as pray, that God’s will may be done on earth as it is in heaven. The result of abstention on the part of Christian men from public life is the domination of bad men, and the employment of the resources of the community for evil purposes. ‘The wicked walk on every side, when the vilest men are exalted’ (Psalm 12:8).
“If we need example in this matter, we have the example of the prophets, who were much more than preachers of a monastic piety: they were active politicians, and yet politicians of an utterly unworldly type. By these principles they will be guided and kept amid all the duties and difficulties of public life. They will be uplifted above party spirit in all its narrow and debasing forms. Theirs will be that true patriotism which consists in a steady loyalty to truth, and righteousness, and mercy. If we are to be Biblical politicians, and this is the duty of every man among us, we shall not necessarily be found on the side of the majority. How often God’s people have been called to stand in what is called a ‘miserable minority’!
“We shall not necessarily share in the prevalent feelings of our time, whether they be those of fear or hope. We shall know that no permanent hurt can be done to our nation while it is in pursuit of righteousness, and that no real advantage can be gained by methods that will not bear the Divine scrutiny. Our supreme desire will be, not to conciliate men, but to please God. We shall consider all public questions, and vote for, or withhold our vote from, all public men, as in His sight (Heb. 11:27). This may cause us often to cut ourselves off from our ‘party,’ but this will not trouble us. Hostility may thus be excited against us --- will be excited against us, for such ‘impracticable men’ are the abhorrence of mere politicians; but then God Himself will be to us ‘for a sanctuary.’ We shall never lose sight of the fact that the penalty of ungodliness in public life is ruin.”
Speaking to redeemed Israel, the covenant peoples who have confessed the lordship of Jesus Christ in the latter days, Isaiah said:
“They shall not hunger nor thirst; neither shall the heat nor sun smite them: for he that hath mercy on them shall lead them, even by the springs of water shall he guide them.” (Isa. 49:10.)
The waters of Shiloah that go softly rise from mysterious depths, unknown to man. They issue from “that land which human eye has not seen, of which the Lord God Almighty and the Lamb are the temple.” The prophet Ezekiel saw the stream coming from under the right side of the temple (47:1); and John, in his apocalyptic vision, saw it proceeding out of the throne of God and of the Lamb (Rev. 22:1). Hence he could say with absolute assurance:
“The Lamb which is in the midst of the throne shall feed them, and shall lead them unto living fountains of waters: and God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes.” (Rev. 7:17.)
--------------------
Article from Biblical Treasures (Volume I) – C. R. Dickey
INTRODUCTION
The Staff at Destiny Publishers, having read all the articles written by the late C. R. Dickey (Christina R. Dickey) found in DESTINY Magazines from July 1938 to October 1967, received such a blessing from her writings that we wanted to share the information with all who are seeking God’s wonderful truths. We are hereby publishing all her articles in two volumes, which we believe you will find most inspiring and of genuine interest and value.
Her knowledge of the Scriptures was unbelievable so she must have had a very close association with her Lord, as she certainly became a champion for His cause.
Our late beloved editor, Howard B. Rand, realized her talent as he published many of articles in booklet form.
The reader should take into account the time element when each article was written, which was from the late thirties to the middle sixties. We found her articles to be up to the minute as though she had written them yesterday. Her writings on various subjects are backed up with Scripture verses, as well as with quotes from reliable sources, when making a point. From her writings, the Lord surely made use of her God-given talents.
Although we do not have any knowledge of her background, we do know that she was a Congregational minister. Her sermons given must have been of interest and value to her congregation. We are sure her articles contained in this book will do the same.
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