SORROWFUL VISIT (2 Corinthians 2:1-17) PART TWO

 CONTINUED FROM PART ONE

2 Corinthians 2:1-17
SATAN'S STRATEGIES AND JESUS' VICTORY 

C. The triumph of Jesus Christ.

1. (12-13) What Paul did on his way to Macedonia.

Furthermore, when I came to Troas to preach Christ’s gospel, and a door was opened to me by the Lord. I had no rest in my spirit, because I did not find Titus my brother; but taking my leave of them, I departed for Macedonia.

a. A door was opened to me by the Lord: Paul was interested in ministering where God opened doors. The only way our work for God will be blessed is when it is directed service.

i. Where we see a door… opened, we can have faith that God will bless the ministry. “Where the master sets up a light, there is some work to be done; where he sends forth his labourers, there is some harvest to be gotten in.” (Trapp)

b. I had no rest in my spirit, because I did not find Titus my brother: Even though there was an open door, Paul felt he could not do all that he needed to if he did not have Titus there. Paul did not regard himself as a one-man show; he knew he needed other people with him and beside him.

In 2 Corinthians 2:13, Paul mentions his departure for Macedonia. In 2 Corinthians 7:5, he writes about his arrival in Macedonia. In between – from 2 Corinthians 2:14 through 7:4 – is sometimes called “the great digression.” In this extended section, Paul describes and defends his ministry as an apostle.

2. (14) Jesus, the triumphant leader.

Now thanks be to God who always leads us in triumph in Christ, and through us diffuses the fragrance of His knowledge in every place.

a. Thanks be to God who always leads us: Paul dealt with criticism from the Corinthian Christians, who said he was unreliable and fickle because of his travel plans. He has explained himself and his reasons for not arriving when he had previously planned. More than anything, he wanted the Corinthian Christians to know he is following Jesus Christ as his General. More than any plan he may declare to the Corinthian Christians, Paul’s plan is to follow Jesus Christ.

b. Who always leads us in triumph in Christ: Here, Paul takes an image from the Roman world, seeing Jesus as the victorious, conquering general in a triumphal parade. A Roman triumphal parade was given to successful generals as they returned from their conquests.

i. “The idea is borrowed from an ancient Roman triumph, which to the eyes of the world of that day was the most glorious spectacle which the imagination could conceive.” (Meyer)

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ii. “In a Triumph the procession of the victorious general marched through the streets of Rome to the Capitol… First came the state officials and the senate. Then came the trumpeters. Then were carried the spoils taken from the conquered land… Then came the pictures of the conquered land and models of conquered citadels and ships. There followed the white bull for sacrifice which would be made. Then there walked the captive princes, leaders and generals in chains, shortly to be flung into prison and in all probability almost immediately to be executed. Then came the lictors bearing their rods, followed by the musicians with their lyres; then the priests swinging their censers with the sweet-smelling incense burning in them. After that came the general himself… finally came the army wearing all their decorations and shouting Io triumphe! Their cry of triumph. As the procession moved through the streets, all decorated and garlanded, amid the cheering crowds, it made a tremendous day which might happen only once in a lifetime.” (Barclay)

iii. “That is the picture that is in Paul’s mind. He sees Christ marching in triumph throughout the world, and himself in that conquering train. It is a triumph which, Paul is certain, nothing can stop.” (Barclay) And, Paul sees himself as sharing in the triumph of Jesus, the Captain of the Lord’s Army, and Paul is one of the Lord’s chief officers!

c. Leads us: Paul wanted the Corinthian Christians to realize that he followed his general, Jesus Christ. Paul can almost see Jesus’ triumphal parade winding its way through the whole Roman Empire, throughout the entire world.

d. Diffuses the fragrance of His knowledge: Fragrance, in the form of incense, was common at the Roman triumphal parade. In Paul’s mind, this fragrance is like the knowledge of God, which people can smell as the triumphal parade comes by.

i. No sense remains in the memory like scent. There is nothing we remember more strongly than pleasant smells, except perhaps unpleasant smells. “Thus the apostle wished that his life might be a sweet perfume, floating on the air, reminding me, and above all reminding God, of Christ.” (Meyer)

ii. “A sweet savour of Christ! It does not consist so much in what we do, but in our manner of doing it; not so much in our words or deeds, as in an indefinable sweetness, tenderness, courtesy, unselfishness, and desire to please others to their edification. It is the breath and fragrance of a life hidden with Christ in God, and deriving its aroma from fellowship with Him. Wrap the habits of your soul in the sweet lavender of your Lord’s character.” (Meyer)

2. (15-16a) The triumphal parade means different things to different people.

For we are to God the fragrance of Christ among those who are being saved and among those who are perishing. To the one we are the aroma of death leading to death, and to the other the aroma of life leading to life.

a. To the one we are the aroma of death leading to death, and to the other the aroma of life leading to life: The scent of incense burnt to the gods in a Roman triumphal parade smelled wonderful to a Roman. The same aroma was a bad smell to a captive prisoner of war in the parade, who would soon be executed or sold into slavery.

b. We are to God the fragrance of Christ among those who are being saved and among those who are perishing: In the same way, the message of the gospel is a message of life to some and a message of condemnation to those who reject it (John 3:17-21).

i. “The same happens to the present day to those who receive and to those who reject the Gospel: it is the means of salvation to the former, it is the means of destruction to the latter; for they are not only not saved because they do not believe the Gospel, but they are condemned because they reject it.” (Clarke)

3. (16b-17) Paul briefly characterizes his ministry.

And who is sufficient for these things? For we are not, as so many, peddling the word of God; but as of sincerity, but as from God, we speak in the sight of God in Christ.

a. Who is sufficient for these things? When Paul thinks of the greatness of God’s plan, he wonders if anyone is sufficient to play a role in it. “In himself, no one is. But someone has to preach Christ and Paul proceeds to show that he is sufficient.” (Robertson)

i. “This is a great work, first to consult the mind and will of God, and find it out by study and meditation; then faithfully to communicate it unto people, without any vain or corrupt mixtures (which do but adulterate the word preached); then to apply it to the consciences of those that hear us. Who is sufficient for these things? That is, to discharge the office of the ministry in the preaching of the gospel, as men ought to preach it.” (Poole)

b. For we are not, as so many, peddling the word of God: The word peddling has the idea of “adulterating” or “watering down” for gain, and was especially used of a wine seller who watered down the wine for bigger profits. Paul was not like others who watered down the gospel for gain.

i. Trapp on peddling the word of God: “This is one of the ‘devil’s depths,’ Revelation 2:24; whereunto God’s faithful ministers are perfect strangers.”

c. As of sincerity: Sincerity is the ancient Greek word eilikrineia, which means “pure” or “transparent.” Barclay says, “It may describe something which can bear the test of being held up to the light of the sun and looked at with the sun shining through it.” Paul’s message and ministry did not have hidden motives or agendas.

d. We speak in the sight of God in Christ: Paul was always aware that his first audience in ministry was God Himself. Every word he spoke, he spoke, in the sight of God.

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SORROWFUL VISIT (2 Corinthians 2:1-17) PART ONE

2 CORINTHIANS 2:1-17

SATAN'S STRATEGIES AND JESUS' VICTORY

(Paul Remembers His Sorrowful Visit To The Corinthians)

Paul’s change of plans: more reasons why the Corinthians misinterpreted why he did not come to them a second time.

1. (1-2) Paul remembers his sorrowful visit to the Corinthians.
But I determined this within myself, that I would not come again to you in sorrow. For if I make you sorrowful, then who is he who makes me glad but the one who is made sorrowful by me?

a. But I determined: Carrying on the thought from chapter one, Paul defends himself against the Corinthian Christians. Some among them criticized him because he changed his travel plans and did not come when he planned to. They used this change of plans to say of Paul, “He is unreliable and untrustworthy. We don’t need to listen to him at all.” But Paul explains there were many reasons why he did not come as planned, one of them being he was trying to spare the Corinthians (2 Corinthians 1:23).

b. I would not come again to you in sorrow: Paul’s most recent visit to Corinth was full of conflict and unpleasantness. So he determined that he would not have another “sorrowful” visit with the Corinthians.

i. “Because of the scandals that were among them he could not see them comfortably; and therefore he determined not to see them at all till he had reason to believe that those evils were put away.”

c. If I make you sorrowful, then who is he who makes me glad? Paul also knew that another painful visit would not be good for him. The constant conflict with the Corinthian Christians could really damage his relationship with them.

i. It seems that Paul thought it best to give the Corinthian Christians a little room, and give them space to repent and get their act together. He didn’t want to rebuke and admonish them all the time. Since this was Paul’s heart, he knew that another visit of the same kind would be of little benefit for either Paul or the Corinthian Christians.

2. (3-4) Instead of a second visit, Paul wrote a letter.:-

And I wrote this very thing to you, lest, when I came, I should have sorrow over those from whom I ought to have joy, having confidence in you all that my joy is the joy of you all. For out of much affliction and anguish of heart I wrote to you, with many tears, not that you should be grieved, but that you might know the love which I have so abundantly for you.

a. And I wrote this very thing to you: Paul wisely understood that considering all the circumstances, a letter was better than a personal visit. A letter could show Paul’s heart, yet not give as much opportunity for the deterioration of their relationship. It would give them room to repent and get right with God and Paul again.

i. Where is this letter that Paul mentions? Some good scholars see the “severe letter” as 1 Corinthians, but it seems better to think of it as another letter that we don’t have. Does this mean that something is missing from our Bibles? Not at all. Not every letter that Paul wrote was inspired Scripture for all God’s people in all ages. We can trust that what Paul wrote in the missing letter was perfect for the Corinthian Christians at that time, but not perfect for us; otherwise, God would have preserved it. We shouldn’t think that everything Paul or the other Bible writers wrote was necessarily Scripture.

b. Lest when I came, I should have sorrow: Paul hoped that his letter would get all the painful work out of the way. Then when he did visit them personally, it would be a pleasant visit because they would have taken advantage of the opportunity he gave them to get right.

c. Over those from whom I ought to have joy: The bad conduct of the Corinthian Christians was all the more troubling considering how they should have treated the apostle who gave them so much.

i. “All evils, as elements, are most troublesome, when out of their proper place, as impiety in professors; injustice in judges; unkindness or untowardness in a people toward their pastor.” (Trapp)

"d. Out of much affliction and anguish of heart I wrote to you: Paul did not enjoy confronting the Corinthian Christians. It was hard for him to do, and he did it with many tears. His goal was not that you should be grieved, but instead that the Corinthian Christians would know the love which I have so abundantly for you.

i. It would take some maturity for the Corinthian Christians to receive Paul’s correction this way. It is easy for us to think a person offering correction is our enemy and sometimes is against us. But usually others bring corrections because they love us, as Paul loved the Corinthian Christians. His goal was not to grieve them, but to love them.

ii. “Where I have known that there existed a measure of disaffection to myself, I have not recognised it, unless it has been forced upon me, but have, on the contrary, acted towards the opposing person with all the more courtesy and friendliness, and I have never heard any more of the matter. If I had treated the good man as an opponent, he would have done his best to take the part assigned to him, and carry it out to his own credit.” (Spurgeon)

e. I wrote to you, with many tears: “St. Paul’s Epistles were written rather with tears than with ink.” (Trapp)

B. Paul’s appeal to forgive the brother who had sinned.

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1. (5-7) Paul recommends that the Corinthian Christians forgive the brother who had sinned (and repented) among them.

But if anyone has caused grief, he has not grieved me, but all of you to some extent—not to be too severe. This punishment which was inflicted by the majority is sufficient for such a man, so that, on the contrary, you ought rather to forgive and comfort him, lest perhaps such a one be swallowed up with too much sorrow.

a. If anyone has caused grief: Paul displays real pastoral wisdom and compassion. He refers to a specific person among the Corinthians, but he does not name the man. Certainly, this man is happy his name was not recorded in God’s eternal word.

b. Who is this man? He is probably the same one that Paul told the Corinthian Christians to confront in 1 Corinthians 5. The phrase such a man is used in both books to describe this man, and in 1 Corinthians it tells us that he sinned in an incestuous affair. He lived immorally with his stepmother.

i. Some commentators disagree and think Paul speaks of another man all together. They believe this man sinned by insulting Paul to his face during his “painful visit.” But 2 Corinthians 2:10 says that Paul expected the Corinthian Christians to forgive the brother first, then he would forgive. If the offense had been something personal towards Paul, we would expect it to be the other way around. In fact, Paul plainly says he has not grieved me. His first offense was not against Paul. So, it is likely that such a man was the one Paul said must be confronted in 1 Corinthians 5.

c. Not to be too severe: Apparently, the man was put under the church’s discipline, even as Paul instructed in 1 Corinthians 5. He received this punishment which was inflicted by the majority. After receiving the punishment, the man apparently repented, but the Corinthian Christians would not receive him back! Therefore, Paul tells them to not be too severe, to consider their punishment sufficient, and to forgive and comfort the man.

i. In 1 Corinthians 5, Paul sharply rebuked the Corinthian Christians for their casual attitude towards this man and his sin. He commanded them when you are gathered together… deliver such a one to Satan for the destruction of his flesh (1 Corinthians 5:4-5). Paul told them to put the man outside the spiritual and social protection of the church family until he repented.

ii. It worked! The Corinthian Christians applied the punishment, and apparently the man repented. Now, Paul must tell the Corinthian Christians to restore the repentant man.

d. Forgive and comfort him: They were just as wrong in withholding forgiveness and restoration to the man when he repented as they were to welcome him with open, approving arms when he was in sin. The Corinthian Christians found it easy to err on either extreme, either being too lenient or too harsh.

i. Paul told them to do more than forgive; he also told them to comfort. “There may be a judicial forgiveness which is hard, and leaves the soul always conscious of the past. Comfort takes the soul to heart, and forgets. That is how God forgives, and so should we who are His children.” (Morgan)

ii. “If discipline is largely lacking in the Church of today, so also is the grace of forgiving and comforting those who, having done wrong, are truly repentant. How often, alas! souls have been indeed swallowed up with overmuch sorrow because of the harshness and suspicion of Christian people toward them in view of some wrong which they have done… Love never slights holiness; but holiness never slays love.” (Morgan)

e. Lest perhaps such a one be swallowed up with too much sorrow: Their harsh stance towards this man had a real danger: By withholding restoration and forgiveness from the man they risked ruining him, causing him to be swallowed up with too much sorrow.

i. “It is a saying of Austin, Let a man grieve for his sin, and then joy for his grief. Sorrow for sin, if it so far exceeds, as that thereby we are disabled for the discharge of our duties, it is a sinful sorrow, yea, though it be for sin.” (Trapp)

ii. Restoring work towards sinners is just as important as rebuking work. Trapp cites an extreme example of the failure to restore: “The Papists burnt some that recanted at the stake, saying, that they would send them out of the world while they were in a good mind.”

2. (8-11) Understanding Satan’s strategy in the matter.

Therefore I urge you to reaffirm your love to him. For this end I also wrote, that I might put you to the test, whether you are obedient in all things. Now whom you forgive anything, I also forgive. For if indeed I have forgiven anything, I have forgiven that one for your sakes in the presence of Christ, lest Satan should take advantage of us; for we are not ignorant of his devices.

a. Therefore I urge you to reaffirm your love to him: Since the man responded to the correction and repented, it was time for love and healing. They needed to reaffirm their love to him.

i. “When the offender is made to feel that, while his sin is punished, he himself is loved; and that the end aimed at is not his suffering but his good, he is more likely to be brought to repentance.” (Hodge)

b. That I might put you to the test: Paul wrote strongly in 1 Corinthians 5, and the Corinthian Christians met the test by doing what Paul said to do. Now he puts them to the test again, telling them to show love to the repentant brother.

i. Paul wanted the Corinthian Christians to be obedient in all things. Would they find it easier to be obedient when he asked them to be “tough” than when he asked them to show love and restoration?

c. I forgive also: The offending man had also sinned against Paul in some way, either directly or indirectly. Paul expected the Corinthian Christians to take the lead in showing the man forgiveness and restoration.

i. Even if the church must treat someone as an unbeliever as a matter of church discipline, we must remember how we are to treat unbelievers: with love and concern, hoping to win them to Jesus, anxious for repentance.

ii. There is no inconsistency: If your brother sins, rebuke him. If he repents, forgive him. (Luke 17:3)

d. Lest Satan should take advantage of us: Paul knew this was of special concern because Satan looks to take advantage of our mistakes, as a church and as individuals.

i. Trapp describes how Satan loves to take advantage: “That wily merchant, that greedy blood-sucker, that devoureth not widows’ houses, but most men’s souls.”

ii. Take advantage (the ancient Greek word pleonekteo) is used in four other verses in the New Testament (2 Corinthians 7:2, 12:17-18, and 1 Thessalonians 4:6). It has the idea of cheating someone out of something that belongs to them. When we are ignorant of Satan’s strategies, he is able to take things from us that belong to us in Jesus, things like peace, joy, fellowship, a sense of forgiveness, and victory.

e. For we are not ignorant of his devices: Their failure to show love to the repentant man could be used as a strategy of Satan.

i. To withhold forgiveness from the repentant is to play into the hands of Satan. “There is nothing more dangerous than to give Satan a chance of reducing a sinner to despair. Whenever we fail to comfort those that are moved to a sincere confession of their sin, we play into Satan’s hands.” (Calvin)

f. His devices: Satan has specific devices (strategies) he uses against us to take advantage of us. Paul could say that he was not ignorant of Satan’s strategies, but many Christians cannot say the same thing.

i. Satan’s strategy against the sinning man was first focused on lust, then he used hopelessness and despair. Satan’s strategy against the church was first the toleration of evil, then using undue severity in punishment. Satan’s strategy against Paul was to simply make him so stressed and upset over the Corinthian Christians that he lost peace and was less effective in ministry.

ii. Calvin defined these devices as “the artful schemes and tricks of which believers ought to be aware, and will be if they allow the Spirit of God to rule in them.” Are you allowing the Spirit to make you aware of Satan’s strategy against you right now? What weak point is he trying to exploit? Where is Satan trying to get a foothold into your life? Are you ignorant of his devices?

TO BE CONTINUED!!!!!!!!

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POWER OF POTENTIAL

UNLOCKING POTENTIAL: Transforming Minds Through God's Word

"......Be diligent to present yourself approved to God, a worker who does not need to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth...." 2 Timothy 2:15

What do you see when you look in the mirror? Do you see your true potential? Or do you lack confidence for the future?

According to the Brain Research Institute at UCLA, our brains have the potential to create, store, and learn virtually without limit. Most of us could learn 40 languages, memorize a set of encyclopedias from A to Z, and complete the required coursework for 12 universities – in one lifetime!

The English language contains about 450,000 words, but linguistic experts estimate that we only use a mere 400 words in our daily conversations.

Why do most of us fall short of these amazing feats? Because the only way to attain these goals is to study. Paul encouraged us to work at laying out and living out the truth of God’s Word plain and simple.

David said that he hid the Word in his heart to keep from sinning against God (Psalm 119:11). One translation of that verse is to read the Scriptures until they are memorized.

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His Word transforms our minds. It reveals who we truly are and Who God really is. As we are changed into His image, we begin to realize the power of the potential that we have in Christ.

May the Lord bless you and keep you. May the Lord make His face to shine upon you and be gracious unto you and give you His peace. As you read the Word of God, may He enlarge your understanding of who you are and all that you can accomplish in Christ for His glory. All things are possible!

BIBLE READING

Old Testament

Numbers 22:21-23:30

New Testament

Luke 1:57-58

Psalms & Proverbs

Psalm 58:1-11

Proverbs 11:12-13

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SPEAK TO YOURSELF

"....Bless the LORD, O my soul; and all that is within me, bless His holy name! Bless the LORD, O my soul, and forget not all His benefits". Psalm 103:1-2

Heartbreak will define us…if we allow it. Heartbreak will come to stay…if we let it set up camp.

David chose the better way in 1 Samuel 30:6. After his city was burned, its families carried into captivity, and his men threatened to stone him, David “strengthened himself in the Lord.”

The decision that we make determines a tragic or triumphant outcome. Sometimes, the most powerful motivational speeches are the ones that we speak to ourselves in our own mirrors.

The Bible encourages us to examine ourselves (1 Corinthians 11:28) – to honestly consider our spiritual, emotional, physical, and relational health. David rose to his best when he should have been at his worst. We can do the same.

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"And do not forget to do good and to share with others, for with such sacrifices God is pleased". Hebrews 13:16

We can look in the mirror and say to ourselves: “Self, we might be surrounded by bitterness, but bitterness will not get inside of us. We will stay hopeful. We may be pressed, but we are not crushed; we may be persecuted, but we are not abandoned; we may be struck down, but we are not destroyed (2 Corinthians 4:8-9). We will not give in to anger or anxiety. We will not whine; we will shine. As long as we have breath, we will praise the Lord.”

BLESSING

May the Lord bless you and keep you. May the Lord make His face to shine upon you and be gracious unto you and give you His peace. Receive the joy of the Lord, the hope, and the profound peace of God. Be strengthened by the power of His might in your life today.

BIBLE READING

Old Testament

Leviticus 16:28-18:30

New Testament

Mark 7:24-8:9

Psalms & Proverbs

Psalm 41:1-13

Proverbs 10:15-16

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Sweat Before Success- The Belief That Drives Us

SWEAT BEFORE SUCCESS- THE BELIEF THAT DRIVES US 

"He who is slothful in his work is a brother to him who is a great destroyer". Proverbs 18:9

("If we believe in something, we will bleed for it. We will sweat to succeed. Sweat demonstrates effort and hard work. Only in the dictionary does success precede work!").

In Luke 22:44, Jesus prayed in Gethsemane, and His sweat poured out like huge drops of blood. Why? He believed in us, and He was working for us. Jesus bore the burden of our humanity, and in that moment, He struggled mightily.
 
He accepted a weight with which we are too familiar. Jesus, Who had never known sin, became sin, so that we could be made right with God (2 Corinthians 5:21). Our sin and shame rolled onto His shoulders, and He was separated from the Father – an agony that He had never experienced.
 
Hours before, He prayed of the beautiful unity that He and the Father shared. Hours later, He cried from the Cross, “My God, My God, why have You forsaken Me?” (Mark 15:34). He poured out His blood and sweat. He completed the work to pay a debt that He did not owe.

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"And do not forget to do good and to share with others, for with such sacrifices God is pleased". Hebrews 13:16
 
Where are you investing your sweat? Are you about the Father’s business? We must energetically undertake the work that Jesus commanded: to go into all the world and preach the Gospel to every creature. Sweat comes before success.

BLESSING

May the Lord bless you and keep you. May the Lord make His face to shine upon you and be gracious unto you and give you His peace. May you commit to the Father’s business – to go and preach the Gospel and make disciples. May He bless the work of your hands and sweat of your brow!

BIBLE READING

Old Testament

Deuteronomy 21:1-22:30

New Testament

Luke 9:51-10:12

Psalms & Proverbs

Psalm 74:1-23

Proverbs 12:11

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HOPE IN GOD

Unveiling Divine Destiny With God's Certainty

"......Hope thou in God, for I shall yet praise Him for the help of His countenance". Psalm 42:5

Hope in God! When the psalmist thirsted for God, when tears poured day and night, when he was discouraged, he commanded his soul to hope in a God Whose help was certain.

Hope is the companion of power and the mother of success. If we put our hope in God, we will never be ashamed or disappointed in the outcome. He has blessed us with a future and a hope (Jeremiah 29:11).

God placed each of us here at this particular time with a specific assignment. You are here to do something that no one else can do – a divine destiny and unlimited potential because of the hope that you have in God and His Word. Exercise hope to believe you can with God’s help.

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"And do not forget to do good and to share with others, for with such sacrifices God is pleased". Hebrews 13:16

People are not limited by their birthplace, social standing, or past mistakes. They are limited by the size of their hope. So, may the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit (Romans 15:13)!

Not just a little bit of hope, but so much hope that it splashes onto everyone that you meet. Venture out in faith on the wings of hope to do the impossible. This is His gift to you. Hope in God!

BLESSING

May the Lord bless you and keep you. May the Lord make His face to shine upon you and be gracious unto you and give you His peace. God has given you hope and a good future. By the power of the Holy Spirit, may you overflow with joy, peace, and hope as you believe in Him!

BIBLE READING

Old Testament

Leviticus 25:47-27:13

New Testament

Mark 10:32-52

Psalms & Proverbs

Psalm 45:1-17

Proverbs 10:22

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THE MASTER KEY

"FORGIVENESS: The Master Key To Break Frem From Life's Prisons!!"

"But if you do not forgive men their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses."Matthew 6:15

Many of us live in a prison that another person has built around us, and we will not reclaim our freedom until we choose to use the master key that Jesus has mandated and modeled for us.

If we are bound by the hurt and pain inflicted by someone else, forgiveness is not optional. The Word of God spells it out clearly. If we do not forgive the trespasses and sins of others against us, our Father will not forgive our trespasses and sins against Him.

The apostle Paul repeats this principle in Ephesians 4:32 when he instructs us to be kind and tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God, for Christ’s sake, has forgiven us. He goes on to say that if we have a complaint against another person, even as Christ has forgiven us, we must forgive him also (Colossians 3:13).

HELP US TO CONTINUE TO SPREAD THE GOSPEL. TOGETHER, LET'S MAKE THE DIFFERENCE!

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"And do not forget to do good and to share with others, for with such sacrifices God is pleased". Hebrews 13:16

Jesus and Paul mandated forgiveness – and modeled it too. Paul suffered for the Gospel – practicing forgiveness along the way and seeing new converts won into the Kingdom. Even as Jesus hung on the Cross, He cried out to God to forgive His persecutors, the very ones for which He died.

Forgiveness is the key that our Master has provided. We can lay hold of it to turn the lock and walk out freely into His glorious light.

BLESSING

May the Lord bless you and keep you. May the Lord make His face to shine upon you and be gracious unto you and give you His peace. As you have heard the Word, may God give you the courage and strength to obey it. Receive the blessing of His magnificent freedom today!

BIBLE READING

Old Testament

Number 11:24 - 13:33

New Testament

Mark 14:22-42

Psalms & Proverbs

Psalm 52:1-9

Proverbs 11:1-3

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WELCOME TO APRIL 2024

As you enter the new month today, may the Lord provide for your needs according to His riches in glory.

May this month be filled with abundant blessings, joy, and opportunities for growth and success. May you embrace each day with optimism, gratitude, and enthusiasm, and may you find fulfilment in pursuing your dreams and aspirations.

In this new month and beyond, may all abandoned projects begin to rise in your favour in Jesus’ name and may this month of April bring you closer to your goals and aspirations, and may you experience moments of love, peace, and happiness with your loved ones. Wishing you a wonderful April filled with positivity, prosperity, and countless blessings.

HAPPY NEW MONTH TO YOU!!!!

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GALILEE DAY/NAPKIN AT THE TOMB

Death is the enemy of mankind and the just punishment for our sin (Romans 6:23). The mortality rate is and will always be 💯%. No amount of effort, medical terminology, power or riches can escape the clutches of death.

Christ rose from death because death could no longer hold Him (Acts 2:24)-we no longer have to fear death because Christ has triumphed over it. That's what led the apostle Paul to write:

"Oh death where is your victory? O death, where is your sting?" The sting of death is sin, and the power of sin is the law. But thanks be to God, who gave us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ! (1 Corinthians 15:55-57).

When Jesus rose from the dead and walked out of the tomb, He left behind the NAPKIN "handkerchief" that had been around His head. It was not lying with the other linen cloths, but it was folded neatly and placed carefully in a place by itself. This might not have significance to us today, but in the Hebrew culture, it carried great significance. In Jewish tradition, if the NAPKIN "linen" was cast aside, it meant the person using it was finished. If the NAPKIN "linen" was folded and left in place, it meant the person was returning. Jesus left us all a sign of His promise to return. Jesus left the NAPKIN "linen" carefully folded in place so that the disciples would know that He was coming back.

HELP US TO CONTINUE TO SPREAD THE GOSPEL. TOGETHER, LET'S MAKE THE DIFFERENCE!

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"And do not forget to do good and to share with others, for with such sacrifices God is pleased". Hebrews 13:16

In the same way, Jesus is concerned with every deep and hidden part of our hearts and lives. The thing that you think God won’t care about - He does. Your concerns are never overlooked. Our God is a God of details. "Then said Jesus unto them, Be not afraid: go tell my brethren that they go into Galilee, and there shall they see me." (Matthew 28:10). Today at "GALILEE" He is waiting with open arms for you. On this Easter Monday, Jesus wants to breathe life into your hopes and resurrect your dreams. Let's celebrate Jesus today!

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PASSION WEEK DAY SEVEN (Easther Day)

"Jesus, The true Bread of Life, came to prove for all. Help us to continue spread the Gospel. God's word guides and imparts wisdom. Together, let's make a difference!"

Jesus is concerned with every detail of our lives. Even as He left the tomb behind, He left us messages in the simplest of details. When Jesus rose from the dead and walked out of the tomb, He left behind the handkerchief that had been around His head. It was not lying with the other linen cloths, but it was folded neatly and placed carefully in a place by itself. This might not have significance to us today, but in the Hebrew culture, it carried great significance. 

In Jewish tradition, if the linen was cast aside, it meant the person using it was finished. If the linen was folded and left in place, it meant the person was returning. Jesus left us all a sign of His promise to return. Jesus left the linen carefully folded in place so that the disciples would know that He was coming back.

HELP US TO CONTINUE TO SPREAD THE GOSPEL. TOGETHER, LET'S MAKE THE DIFFERENCE!

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"And do not forget to do good and to share with others, for with such sacrifices God is pleased". Hebrews 13:16

In the same way, Jesus is concerned with every deep and hidden part of our hearts and lives. The thing that you think God won’t care about - He does. Your concerns are never overlooked. Our God is a God of details. He is waiting with open arms for you. On this Easter morning, Jesus wants to breathe life into your hopes and resurrect your dreams. Let's celebrate Jesus today because HE IS RISEN! 

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PASSION WEEK DAY SIX (Holy Saturday)

"Jesus, The true Bread of Life, came to prove for all. Help us to continue spread the Gospel. God's word guides and imparts wisdom. Together, let's make a difference! "

It seems fitting that on the Cross, Jesus hung between two sinners. This is the reason He came to earth; that we, as sinners, might be forgiven and redeemed. Jesus gave His life so that we could receive the gift of everlasting life and have the promise of eternity in heaven with Him. 

Beyond the suffering and shame of the cross, think about how the two other men crucified with Jesus responded so differently. One cursed and mocked Him saying; “Are you not the Christ? Save Yourself and us!” The other saw Jesus for who He was made a declaration that changed his eternity; “Jesus, remember me when You come into Your kingdom!” (Luke 23:42). Who do you say Jesus is? 

Do you go to God only when you need a quick fix? Or, do you recognize Him for who He is, the Lamb of God who took away the sins of the world? Today you have a choice. You can choose to dwell in your sin, or you can come to Jesus and receive His grace and forgiveness. Think about it for a minute… the first person to walk with Jesus into the gates of Heaven wasn’t a priest or a disciple, it was a thief that chose to turn to Jesus, and by doing so received an eternal reprieve. 

HELP US TO CONTINUE TO SPREAD THE GOSPEL. TOGETHER, LET'S MAKE THE DIFFERENCE!

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"And do not forget to do good and to share with others, for with such sacrifices God is pleased". Hebrews 13:16

In the middle of suffering the consequences of his sin, he recognized Jesus for who He is. That should encourage you today. Jesus is still in the business of forgiving and saving sinners. All you need to do is put your faith and trust in Him. The price for your redemption has already been paid in full – will you receive it? 

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PASSION WEEK DAY FIVE (Good Friday)

Jesus knew what His future would be. He knew that He was destined to experience an agonizing death on a Cross. Because of this, He shared the first communion with the disciples. Communion is a beautiful representation of His body and His Blood. Even in His perfect sacrifice, Jesus knew and still knows that we are going to mess up. 

It’s hard to imagine that in His final hours, those closest to Jesus, the ones who saw Him walk on water, give sight to the blind and raise the dead, would deny Him, abandon Him and hide in fear. Jesus is never surprised by our shortcomings. There's comfort in His sovereignty. 

Throughout Scripture, we read promises that speak to the hope of our future. Jeremiah 29:11 says that God has plans to "prosper us and not to harm us, plans to give us hope and a future." We can rest assured in that truth today. He who began a good work in us is also going to complete it. This is His promise to us! No matter where we fall short. If you need encouragement, open your Bible. God's Word is filled with His perfect plan and promises for your life. 

Consider an olive. In order for it to produce its precious oil, it must be pressed. The purer the oil, the more it must be pressed. Do you sometimes feel "pressed?" Are you carrying the weight of the world on your shoulders? Do you have health or financial concerns that are keeping you up at night?

HELP US TO CONTINUE TO SPREAD THE GOSPEL. TOGETHER, LET'S MAKE THE DIFFERENCE!

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"And do not forget to do good and to share with others, for with such sacrifices God is pleased". Hebrews 13:16

Sometimes the world sure can seem to be pressing in on all sides. When the walls begin to close around you, and you feel under pressure, remember that pressing can produce something pure, something precious, something amazing. When you feel pressed… just remember to pray. Pressing produces praying! Jesus experienced pressing before He went to the Cross. 

He knew what was before Him, and the pressure was unbearable, so much that “His sweat became like great drops of blood” (Luke 22:44). In this great pressure, He knew that prayer is what would sustain Him. When it feels like you’re pressed on every side and don’t know what else to do, remember to turn to Jesus. Not only can He save you from your situation, but He can sustain you “through” every situation. You can find comfort in knowing that the God who is allowing the pressing is the same One who will give you the grace to go through it! 

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PASSION WEEK DAY FOUR (Washing Of Feet/Last Supper)

 "Now before the feast of the passover, when Jesus knew that his hour was come that he should depart out of this world unto the father, having loved his own which were in the world, he loved them unto the end.....He riseth from the supper, and laid aside his garments: and took a towel, and girded himself......and began to wash the disciples' feet, and to wipe them with the towel wherewith he was girded........" John 13:1-11

On the night before Jesus died, He was in the upper room with His disciples expressing His love for them. He washed their feet, spoke words of life and wisdom, and showed the ultimate picture of unconditional love. That evening, He shared one of the most important commandments found in John 13:34. He said, "A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another; as I have loved you, that you also love one another." What do you think of when you hear the word love? What about when you think of God's love? In 1 Corinthians 13, we're given an outline of real, God-give love. 

This kind of love is deeper than any emotion or a physical act. It says; "Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres." Isn't it amazing? That was the exact kind of love that Jesus demonstrated on the Cross as He gave Himself as a sacrifice so that we might forever live with Him in heaven. 

In obedience beloved, as you begin your day, ask God to show you how to love those around you, just as He has loved you.. In John 14:15, Jesus says "If you love Me, keep My commandments." In other words, obey His commandments. 

HELP US TO CONTINUE TO SPREAD THE GOSPEL. TOGETHER, LET'S MAKE THE DIFFERENCE!

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"And do not forget to do good and to share with others, for with such sacrifices God is pleased". Hebrews 13:16

There can be a misconception about obedience to God in Christianity today. Many hear the word "obedience" and think of it negatively, but obedience is a vital part of having a successful life with God. He doesn't ask us to be holy or never mess up; He just asks us to position our hearts to obedience.

This begins with reading the Scripture and comparing our own lives and hearts to the word of God. As we spend time with God, we desire more and more to be obedient, and in turn, we see His best for our lives. Let's ask ourselves: Where am I being disobedient right now? Is there an area of my life that God is asking me to be obedient in? The more obedient we are, the more we become like Him. He honors our obedience - He has the best in mind for us! 

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PASSION WEEK DAY THREE

".....And He sent Peter and joh, saying, Go and prepare us the passover, that we may eat......"  Luke 22:8-13

Jesus, The true Bread of Life, came to prove for all. Help us to continue spread the Gospel. God's word guides and imparts wisdom. Together, let's make a difference! "

How amazing is it that our Lord knows exactly what we need? Sometimes He doesn't provide the answer in the way that we expected, but He always provides exactly what we need when we need it. The Bible is full of examples of God providing for people in the most perfect way, at the precise moment of need. 

The disciples were so accustomed to hearing and obeying His voice. In Luke 22 when Jesus gives specific instructions for the Passover meal; they do not hesitate. They quickly followed His instructions. We all too often complicate and question His voice, but there’s a wonderful innocence and simplicity that comes in obeying. He knows right where you are and is ready to meet your every need. Position yourself to hear Him. Spend time in His Word. Pray and ask Him to reveal Himself to you every day in supernatural ways. He is listening. He is always faithful. 

HELP US TO CONTINUE TO SPREAD THE GOSPEL. TOGETHER, LET'S MAKE THE DIFFERENCE!

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"And do not forget to do good and to share with others, for with such sacrifices God is pleased". Hebrews 13:16

The good news today is that Jesus came so that we might have life and have it more abundantly. And regardless of what you are facing today or what you have done in the past, the Bible promises that nothing can separate us from the love of God 

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PASSION WEEK DAY TWO

"Jesus, The true Bread of Life, came to prove for all. Help us to continue spread the Gospel. God's word guides and imparts wisdom. Together, let's make a difference! "

Have you ever felt like your failure was final? Have you ever wondered if God would ever redeem a person like you, or rescue you from a situation like the one you might find yourself in even today? We’ve all been there. 

But guess what? Our failures and shortcomings are no surprise to our God. In fact, He’s prepared for them. He knew the situation and the solution before you did. Just hours before Jesus’ crucifixion, He knew that Peter would deny Him. Even in the midst of betrayal, Jesus loved and encouraged Peter, showing grace even when Peter did not deserve it. 

Jesus knew that Pilot could find no fault in Him and would be unable to persuade the crowd to release Him, yet He never spoke a word in His defense because He knew what He was to do. It’s easy to feel shame and guilt, and even run from God when we feel like we have failed, but that’s actually the best moment to run To Him. We have all sinned and fallen short of His glory. In the midst of our failures, Jesus is waiting for you with open arms, ready to take you back again.

HELP US TO CONTINUE TO SPREAD THE GOSPEL. TOGETHER, LET'S MAKE THE DIFFERENCE!

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"And do not forget to do good and to share with others, for with such sacrifices God is pleased". Hebrews 13:16

Aren’t you thankful for the hope of Jesus? If you’re discouraged, read 2 Corinthians 12:9-10. The Lord says, “My grace is sufficient for you, for My power is made perfect in your weakness." It goes on to say that I can even boast in my weakness so that the power of God is shown even stronger. Be encouraged today. Your failure is never final. 

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PASSION WEEK DAY ONE

The crucifixion of Jesus, though brutal beyond our comprehension, was a beautiful sacrifice that represents the life we get to live with Him every day.

His crucifixion was a gift to the world, a gift to every one of us. The pain He bore, the punishment He experienced, though He did not deserve it, was taken on our behalf. He endured the pain of the Cross in order to draw all men unto Himself. 

When we sing about the Blood of Jesus, this is what we are singing about. Our God, who willingly shed His Blood on the Cross so that we could have life, and life to the full (John 10:10). What a beautiful reason to thank Him every day. Today, let’s reflect on that truth and thank Him for the beautiful sacrifice.

However, since the fall man has been searching for God and seeking to connect with Him. Ecclesiastes 3 tells us that God has placed eternity in our hearts. That means that inside every one of us is a deep desire to know God in a personal way. Throughout the Bible, we learn that the way to the Father is through a personal relationship with Jesus. It's easy to get caught in the motions of life and religion and forget what it means to have a genuine relationship.

HELP US TO CONTINUE TO SPREAD THE GOSPEL. TOGETHER, LET'S MAKE THE DIFFERENCE!

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"And do not forget to do good and to share with others, for with such sacrifices God is pleased". Hebrews 13:16

God doesn't need our good deeds; He wants our hearts. How many times do we get caught up in making sure our behavior is right for Him? It's easy to do. We think we need to fix ourselves in order to come to Him when He really wants us to come to Him as we are. He provided Jesus as the perfect vessel for us to be able to go directly to the Father. No matter what you are facing or what you have done, be encouraged today. You can come to God just as you are, through Jesus. 

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Jesus' Triumphal Entry to Jerusalem

PALM SUNDAY!!!

“..Say to the daughter of Zion, 'Behold, your king is coming to you, humble, and mounted on a donkey, on a colt, the foal of a beast of burden...'” Matthew 21:5-11 

Palm Sunday commemorates when Jesus entered Jerusalem and was greeted by people waving palm branches. This event serves as a reminder for Christians to welcome Jesus into their hearts and be ready to follow Him. The Palm Sunday service also includes a reading of the Passion, which narrates the story of Jesus' suffering and crucifixion.

This celebration celebrates Jesus' triumphal entry into Jerusalem, mentioned in each of the four Gospels. Jesus entered the city knowing He would be tried and crucified and welcomed His fate to rise from the grave and save us from sin! Palm Sunday marks the beginning of HOLY WEEK the remembrance of Jesus' last days.

BIBLE READING

....."Say to the daughter of Zion, 'Behold, your king is coming to you, humble, and mounted on a donkey, and on a colt, the foal of a beast of burden.'" 6 The disciples went and did as Jesus had directed them. They brought the donkey and the colt and put on them their cloaks, and he sat on them. Most of the crowd spread their cloaks on the road, and others cut branches from the trees and spread them on the road. And the crowds that went before him and that followed him were shouting, "Hosanna to the Son of David! Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord! Hosanna in the highest!" And when he entered Jerusalem, the whole city was stirred up, saying, "Who is this?" And the crowds said, "This is the prophet Jesus, from Nazareth of Galilee." - Matthew 21:1-11

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THE RIGHT EXAMPLE

"...and did not spare the ancient world, but saved Noah, one of eight people, a preacher of righteousness…" 2 Peter 2:5

Preaching With Our Lives: LEADING OUR FAMILIES TO FAITH

Scripture does not celebrate Noah for his naval genius. While he was an impressive boat builder, he is remembered for something more world-shaking.

Because Noah believed in God and behaved like he believed, his entire family was saved – eight people in all. That is worth celebrating!

Today’s verse refers to Noah as a preacher of righteousness. Where and to whom did Noah preach? Genesis never mentions him standing behind a pulpit. But every day, Noah shared a message with his life, when he moved in Godly fear to obey His commands.

What message are we preaching to our children? Does our behavior cause them to believe in the God that we serve?

While Noah’s sons may not have understood his actions, they trusted him and followed him into the ark. Our children may not understand why we pray or attend church, but if we set the right example, they will implement those same practices in their own lives.

Are we living consistent lives of faith? Are we beacons that light the way to Jesus in this dark world? If we set the right example, they will follow us into the Ark of salvation. We may not be impressive boat builders, but we will be remembered for something more world-shaking.

HELP US TO CONTINUE TO SPREAD THE GOSPEL. TOGETHER, LET'S MAKE THE DIFFERENCE!

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"And do not forget to do good and to share with others, for with such sacrifices God is pleased". Hebrews 13:16

BLESSING

May the Lord bless you and keep you. May the Lord make His face to shine upon you and be gracious unto you and give you His peace. May you be filled with the power of Jesus to demonstrate a consistent life of faith. May you always light the way to Jesus, the Architect of our salvation. Amen and amen.

BIBLE READING

Old Testament

Ezekiel 24:1-26:21

New Testament

Hebrews 11:1-16

Psalms & Proverbs

Psalm 110:1-7

Proverbs 27:14

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Raise Up The Next Generation

"Like arrows in the hand of a warrior, so are the children of one’s youth." Psalm 127:4

"Raising Arrows: Guiding Future Disciples!"

They are exceptionally noisy and incredibly messy. They question our decisions and challenge our authority. They monopolize our days and keep us up at night. And we love them more than our lives – these children that God has given to us.

Our children are our legacy and future. We are commissioned by our Heavenly Father to raise up the next generation to follow Him, to thoroughly prepare them for a life in Christ.

As parents, we are charged with teaching them about this marvelous Savior to Whom we have devoted our lives. We must raise them up to love Him and fully embrace His Word and the power of the Holy Spirit.

They are like arrows in our hands – pointed and purposeful. We sharpen them to shoot them into the future, to carry the power of Jesus into the years beyond us. We must be intentional as we model and mold, train and teach, love and lead – always pointing them to Jesus.

If we submit to the mission and the necessary sacrifices to pass this torch, our arrows will be pointed and prepared. They will fly true and straight to hit the mark of God’s purpose every time.

HELP US TO CONTINUE TO SPREAD THE GOSPEL. TOGETHER, LET'S MAKE THE DIFFERENCE!

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"And do not forget to do good and to share with others, for with such sacrifices God is pleased". Hebrews 13:16

BLESSING

May the Lord bless you and keep you. May the Lord make His face to shine upon you and be gracious unto you and give you His peace. Determine to raise the children God has entrusted to you in the fear and admonition of the Lord. May they have confidence to do all things through Christ as they walk in the destiny He has prepared for each one. All of God’s children say, “Amen!”

BIBLE READING

Old Testament

Ezekiel 1:1-3:15

New Testament

Hebrews 3:1-19

Psalms & Proverbs

Psalm 104:1-24

Proverbs 26:24-26

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Does God "Know" You??? (2)

DOES GOD "KNOW" YOU? (2)

A person can claim that he knows God and thus will be saved. But if God does not know or recognize him, then all is but a claim and a false one to be exact.

ONE OF THE MOST prevalent beliefs about salvation is the so-called "faith alone" concept. It teaches that it is enough to merely recognize God and Our Lord Jesus Christ in order to be saved. Although this belief may be appealing to many because of its convenience, the Bible declares otherwise:

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

It's not enough that a person recognizes it knows God in order to be saved. What is more important or as the Bible teaches. "Even Better" is that "God knows you."

A person can claim that he knows God and thus will be saved. But if God does not know or recognize him, then all is but a claim and a false one to be exact.

NOT ENOUGH FOR CHRIST

Our Lord Jesus Christ shares the same policy of mutual recognition when it comes to salvation. He made this emphatically clear in His declaration in Matthew 7:21-23:

"Not all who sound religious are really godly people.They may refer to me as 'Lord,' but still won't get to heaven. For the decisive question is whether they obey my father in heaven. At the judgment many will tell me, 'Lord, Lord, we told others about you and used your name to cast out demons and to do many other great miracles.' But I will reply, 'You have never been mine. Go away, for your deeds are evil'."

Notice that the people referred to by Christ already recognize Him as Lord. In fact, they use His name and are even able to perform great and wondrous acts in His name. However, Christ stated they "still won't get to heaven." They still do not have the right to salvation because Jesus declared to them, "You have never been mine."

"Not all who sound religious are really godly people. They may refer to me as 'Lord,' but still won't get to heaven. for the decisive question is whether they obey my father in heaven." Matthew 7:21

WHOM CHRIST RECOGNIZES

In order to be saved, one must first be recognized by God and by Christ. Jesus proved this again when He taught:

"I am the good shepherd, and know my sheep, and am known of mine." (John 10:14)

Clearly, one needs to be known or recognized by Christ ("I know my own") to truly belong to the Lord. Where can we find those who are recognized by Christ as His own? In John 10:7 and 9 it states this:

"So Jesus spoke again: 'I am the door; anyone who comes into the fold through me will be safe." (Revised English Bible)

Those who truly belong to Christ and are recognized by Him are in the "food" or flock of Christ. Apostle Paul calls this flock the Church Of Christ:

"Take head therefore to yourselves and to all the flock over which the Holy Spirit has appointed you overseers, to feed the church of God, which he hath purchased with his own blood " (Act 20:28)

The Lord Jesus Christ referred to His flock as "My Church" ( Matthew 16:18 New King James Version), which is why the apostles called it Church Of Christ. Even the Gentiles in the first century who became followers of Christ or Christians were called after the name of Christ (Acts 15:11, 17-18 New American Standard Bible) because they were members of the Church Of Christ:

"The truth now revealed is that the Gentiles can be fellow heirs of God with Israel. They are eligible to be united in the same body -Christ's Church. They can all now receive all the blessings God promises in the Great News about Christ." (Ephesians 3:6)

THE TRUE CHRISTIAN

When it comes to salvation, the book of Revelation records those who will be saved on the last day of judgment:

"Then I heard a voice from heaven say, "Write; Blessed are the dead which die in the Lord from henceforth: Yea, saith the Spirit, that they may rest from the labours; and their labours; and their work do follow them!'" (Rev. 14:13)

The Bible assures us that it is the true Christians who will be saved on the day of judgment. But who is a true Christian? Is it the one who simply declares he is a Christian? Is it the one who merely professes that he believes and belongs to Christ? Apostle John teaches us how we can recognize the true Christian:

"Someone may say, ' I am a Christian; I am on my way to heaven; I belong to Christ.' But if he doesn't do what Christ tells him to, he is a liar." (1 John 2:4)

To be a true Christian means to follow the teachings and commandments of Christ -to "do what Christ tells him to." And one of Christ's principal commands when it comes to salvation is to enter His flock or His Church, the Church Of Christ.

HELP US TO CONTINUE TO SPREAD THE GOSPEL. TOGETHER, LET'S MAKE THE DIFFERENCE!

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"And do not forget to do good and to share with others, for with such sacrifices God is pleased". Hebrews 13:16

People may have their own opinion, beliefs and even principles when it comes to salvation. However, all of that really does not matter because salvation is not based on man's will and whim. God and the Lord Jesus Christ already laid down long ago the process by which man can be saved. If we would only keep an open mind, understand God's will, and allow the teachings of God and of Christ to guide us, we will find ourselves in the one place of salvation -the Church Of Christ.

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