Participating in the Great Commission Jesus Mandated us to Fulfill, with the resources HE gave us….. each of us doing our part. …and Yes, WE, YOU are in that war and commanded to “fight”. It’s a battle for the eternal souls of men for whom our LORD Jesus came to die (Luke 19:20; 1 Timothy 1:15). Let’s roll saints!
“Fight the good fight of faith, lay hold on eternal life, whereunto thou art also called, and hast professed a good profession before many witnesses.” 1 Timothy 6:12
Each of us and blood-bought members of Christ’s body, are co-laborers with our LORD and His beloved people.
“WE are labourers TOGETHER with God.” 1 Corinthians 3:9
As the body of our LORD Jesus Christ, we are His standing army in the earth (2 Timothy 2:1-4).
“And the things that thou hast heard of me among many witnesses, the same commit thou to faithful men, who shall be able to teach others also. 3 Thou therefore endure hardness, as a good soldier of Jesus Christ. 4 No man that warreth entangleth himself with the affairs of this life; that he may please him who hath chosen him to be a soldier. 5 And if a man also strive for masteries, yet is he not crowned, except he strive lawfully.” 2 Timothy 2:2-5
And we wonder why America is under judgment when those claiming to know and love the Savior don’t support His work. HOW does that look to the lost when the “FEW” “labourers,” the ministries Jesus has sent forth have an empty bank account? Wonder no more why America is spiraling downward.
HOW a Gospel outreach that is now reaching over 6k people daily (on ministry website alone) with God’s Word can go days and sometimes weeks without a single online donation, seems a bit shocking! Wow. Bibles, Christ-centered Scripture-rich books going forth, poor being fed, prisoners receiving Gospel resources, etc. Just going to keep doing HIS work and hope more others who claim Christ will participate. What’s 1 John 3:18 say?
Every Disciple who participates in our LORD’s work, in any fashion – either front line fighting or fueling, supplying the Gospel workers – will be rewarded by God equally!
“For who will hearken unto you in this matter? but as his part is that goeth down to the battle, so shall his part be that tarrieth by the stuff: they shall part alike.” 1 Samuel 30:24
Clue: If God-called ministers were independentantly wealthy, that would rob you of the opportunity to participate and be blessed by doing so. Selah.
The Harvest Is Plentiful, the Laborers Few
“And Jesus went about all the cities and villages, teaching in their synagogues, and preaching the gospel of the kingdom, and healing every sickness and every disease among the people. 36 But when he saw the multitudes, he was moved with compassion on them, because they fainted, and were scattered abroad, as sheep having no shepherd. 37 Then saith he unto his disciples, The harvest truly is plenteous, but the labourers are few; 38 Pray ye therefore the Lord of the harvest, that he will send forth labourers into his harvest.” Matthew 9:35-38
Jesus says “Where your treasure is there will your heart be also” (Matthew 6:19-21). Band aids are in vain, fully futile – no different than trying to use tape to patch a hole in a sinking ship. True repentance is needed. God is calling you to repent and put your money where your mouth is. And, when you do, you are doing no one a favor except yourself. Stop calling yourself a follower, a disciple of Jesus until you demonstrate such in real deeds!
“And Jesus said unto him, No man, having put his hand to the plough, and looking back, is fit for the kingdom of God.” Luke 9:62
“Cease ye from man, whose breath is in his nostrils: for wherein is he to be accounted of?” Isaiah 2:22
WHEN conservative political organizations are receiving millions in support and the work of God pennies, there it is…. that’s exactly the problem – where those claiming to know and love Jesus waste the resources He’s giving them on the temporal, with utter futility attempting to band aid a huge hole in a sinking ship.
“Jesus said unto him, If thou wilt be perfect, go and sell that thou hast, and give to the poor, and thou shalt have treasure in heaven: and come and follow me.” Matthew 19:21
All who don’t see Christ’s kingdom work as the ultimate investment are blinded, are walking in darkness.
You see, we have few, very few who run to invest, who sprint to be vested in the support of the LORD’s work, which is the only eternal work in the earth. If we have an iota of kingdom wisdom this is what we will do – we’d be jumping in, we’d be jockeying to be the one to supply, to support the further reach into humanity of the preaching of our LORD’s Word. All else is waste. Is the LORD calling you to a place of fresh repentance, refreshment, obedience, and blessing?
“Let us hear the conclusion of the whole matter: Fear God, and keep his commandments: for this is the whole duty of man. 14 For God shall bring every work into judgment, with every secret thing, whether it be good, or whether it be evil.” Ecclesiastes 12:13-14
If you like your ears tickled instead of your heart and life rebuked with truth, this is not the ministry for you. If you want to be seduced by lies and sent off the cliff into the lake of fire irrevocably, please find one of the “MANY false prophets” Jesus warns us about who are deceiving “MANY” (Matthew 24:11).
“Preach the word; be instant in season, out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort with all longsuffering and doctrine. 3 For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but after their own lusts shall they heap to themselves teachers, having itching ears; 4 And they shall turn away their ears from the truth, and shall be turned unto fables.” 2 Timothy 4:2-4
If you are truly with Christ you will support the teaching and preaching of HIS Word (Matthew 28:18-20; Mark 16:15). Such was and is the primary ministry of Christ and His holy apostles, of His kingdom workers today.
Here we are, in the first days of this new year. What a great opportunity lies before us as we live for and unto Christ, looking for the soon return of our blessed Savior from Heaven!
“Only one life, will soon be passed, and only what’s done for Christ will last!”
Be it known that you – yes you – can make a huge difference, an eternal impact for the glory of God!
To say that it’s frustrating to continue to have to say the ministry needs solid support is a great understatement. I am just one man and can’t do everything. Sorry brothers and sisters, I simply cannot work 40-60 hours on God’s work and simultaneously work a secular job to support the work of God which I did for decades. Now it’s full time in the only eternal work transpiring on the earth. And, regrettably that work is not funded.
Can we imagine what would happen if the individuals (you) reading these very words were as serious, as deliberate about putting money into God’s work as they are about paying their monthly bills in this fleeting world? (some spending which has zero eternal value)
Are we putting God or self first?
“Honour the LORD with thy substance, and with the FIRSTFRUITS (not second, first) of all thine increase: 10 So shall thy barns be filled with plenty, and thy presses shall burst out with new wine.” Proverbs 3:9-10
WHO is going to be “first” this year in your life? Who? God or you?
Having unwarranted, unnecessary lack is a hindrance to God’s work. What would happen if there were fuel in the tank, no more sleepless nights, fretting if the bills were going to be paid in a ministry outreach that is reaching thousands?
It’s unfathomable how this ministry outreach is ministering God’s Word daily to thousands and tens of thousands per month with a mere 8-10 who support it. This is incomprehensible. God be praised for those faithfully supporting HIS work.
Today the podcast bill came through the account and left the ministry acct at $52.55 in it. Oh and over 41,000 podcasts have been downloaded already since September.
As we speak I have a tech working on something on the site and don’t know how he’s going to get paid.
Is this what we think of God’s work?
If those naming Jesus Christ as their LORD and Savior were supporting HIS work, would this email have ever had to be sent out?
This is about the LORD. What is your true allegiance to the nail-scarred risen Savior who saved and sent you to participate in accomplishing His Great Commission command? (Read Matthew 28; Mark 16.)
Yet don’t pity anyone except those who sit there and do nothing to support the work of the God they claim to love and serve. If we have money for coffee, soft drinks, candy, entertainment, etc., and aren’t putting God first, aren’t putting our money where our mouth is, what’s that say of us? Are we going to be real or fake? (See Romans 6:16; Titus 1:16.)
Is this the year, the day, you are going to begin doing your part in Christ’s kingdom work? Is this your day to take action? – to be a DOER of His Word and not just a hearer only? (See James 1:22.)
This outreach is in need of a minimum of $3,000 monthly to begin functioning properly. How much of that amount are you going to take personal responsibility for? This is GOD’s work and each of us can only do our part and yet we must do our part. God is watching and will bring us into judgment for it (Matthew 25, etc.).
Are you praying for Christ’s “labourers” He instructed us to pray that the Father would send forth? (Matt. 9:35-38)
How shall His ministers do HIS work except they be sent and supplied?
“How then shall they call on him in whom they have not believed? and how shall they believe in him of whom they have not heard? and how shall they hear without a preacher? 15 And how shall they preach, except they be sent? as it is written, How beautiful are the feet of them that preach the gospel of peace, and bring glad tidings of good things!” Romans 10:14-15
It is our privilege to fund God’s work with what He’s given, and is giving us (1 Chronicles 29:14). The way we spend our money is a direct reflection of the priorities of our heart (Matthew 6:19-24).
When you lay your head down this night, are you going to be clear in conscience having spent all your money on self? Having told God “No I won’t surrender my heart and therefore life and resources to You! I won’t put You first!”
If not you, then who?
“Lay not up for yourselves treasures upon earth, where moth and rust doth corrupt, and where thieves break through and steal: 20 But lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust doth corrupt, and where thieves do not break through nor steal: 21 For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also.” Matthew 6:19-21
The natural man’s inclination is to say “But How are We Going to Make it?” And we should ask ourselves, “How have we made it this far?” God.
“They shall not be ashamed in the evil time: and in the days of famine they shall be satisfied. … I have been young, and now am old; yet have I not seen the righteous forsaken, nor his seed begging bread.” Psalms 37:19, 25
God will never suffer His people, who are givers, to suffer hunger. Want to prep for the future? Give cheerfully.
“But this I say, He which soweth sparingly shall reap also sparingly; and he which soweth bountifully shall reap also bountifully. 7 Every man according as he purposeth in his heart, so let him give; not grudgingly, or of necessity: for God loveth a cheerful giver. 8 And God is able to make all grace abound toward you; that ye, always having all sufficiency in all things, may abound to every good work: 9 (As it is written, He hath dispersed abroad; he hath given to the poor: his righteousness remaineth for ever. 10 Now he that ministereth seed to the sower both minister bread for your food, and multiply your seed sown, and increase the fruits of your righteousness;) 11 Being enriched in every thing to all bountifulness, which causeth through us thanksgiving to God.” 2 Corinthians 9:6-11
YOUR PRAYER: Holy Father, I come to You now in the name of Jesus Christ, asking You to forgive my vile sin of self-idolatry, which caused me to feed the god of self. I here and now acknowledge this for the sin it is, that it is the soul damning idolatrous worship of self instead of You. Please wash me afresh by Thy precious blood dear LORD Jesus and unite my heart to fear Thy name LORD. Break me. Strip me. Cleanse me. Use me. In Jesus’ Name, amen.
STORE | Podcasts | Christology | Be Ready in the Morning [podcast] | The Sure Mercies of David [podcast] | That Repentance and Remission of Sins should be Preached [podcast] | At His Feet | The 7 Sayings of Jesus on the Cross | How We Know the Bible is the Only Holy Book
Abiding
“Fear hath Torment” – 100% Deliverance from all Fear! [podcast]
Perfect Love Casteth Out Fear [podcast]
Fear Stifles and Stains our Lives – “Fear hath Torment”
“Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me.” Psalms 23:4
Fear, hides, it lurks, and it controls us until it is dealt with. It seems to me that we have little knowledge yet of how fear has controlled us the whole of our lives. Today is the day of salvation, deliverance from the evil of fear.
“How very little can be done under the spirit of fear.” Florence Nightingale
Fear stifles and robs.
One study Bible note says:
“Fear is a dark shadow that envelops us and ultimately imprisons us within ourselves. Each of us has been a prisoner of fear at one time or another – fear of rejection, misunderstanding, uncertainty, sickness, or even death. But we can conquer fear by using the bright liberating light of the Lord who brings salvation. If we want to dispel the darkness of fear, let us remember with the psalmist that “the Lord is my light and my salvation.”
“Fear hath torment.” The quality of life God intends you to enjoy with Him is spoiled by fear. “fear hath torment.” Did He provide the solution in Christ? Yes. His “perfect love casteth out fear: because fear hath torment.” Notice below is this golden passage of Holy Writ that oneness with the LORD who “is love” is when all fear is vanquished from our lives (John 17). This disciple would like to invite and to encourage you to pour over this passage prayerfully and to make it part of your life from today forward. You will want to share it with others also.
“And we have known and believed the love that God hath to us. God is love; and he that dwelleth in love dwelleth in God, and God in him. 17 Herein is our love made perfect, that we may have boldness in the day of judgment: because as he is, so are we in this world. 18 There is no fear in love; but perfect love casteth out fear: because fear hath torment. He that feareth is not made perfect in love.” 1 John 4:16-18
Did you note in this passage above that the eradication of fear is God’s will not only for now but also for all eternity? | Why We Need not Fear Death
You can’t conjure up boldness, conviction, valiancy. It must come out of the cross life, the crucified life with Christ – from which all fear is vanquished (Romans 6; 1 John 4:16-18). Then we know that “The righteous are bold as a lion.” (Proverbs 28:1)
Someone has rightly stated: “Fear is the currency of control.”
“O LORD, my strength, and my fortress, and my refuge in the day of affliction…” Jeremiah 16:19
The struggles and fallen sinful nature of this world should lay us at the feet of Christ. There are many things that can cause us to fear and yet, we run to our LORD who is our refuge and our fortress and we don’t run to the world for a mood drug or psychobabble, etc.
“The name of the LORD is a strong tower: the righteous runneth into it, and is safe.” Proverbs 18:10
Notice in the verse above that the God fearing man does not run to the world, to a mood drug, to a “fix” that mere sinful man offers, but rather He runs to the LORD!
We we are experiencing worrying, anxiety, and fear, that simply means that we need to repent and draw nigh to our God and He will draw nigh to us and all fear will be vanquished. Beware of the coping mechanisms beloved!
“For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind.” 2 Timothy 1:7
It’s one thing to know this verse above and yet another to truly, diligently, daily be seeking the face of the LORD. Memorizing and meditating upon and declaring this one below has helped this lowly disciple immensely!
“Seek the LORD and his strength, seek his face continually.” 1 Chronicles 16:11
When a man truly fears the LORD, that man doesn’t run to the world to find a coping mechanism because that man seeks the LORD continually and is continually filled with His Holy Spirit and the corresponding fruit of the Spirit – love, joy, peace… (Galatians 5:22-23).
Why do we fear?
“People fear because their faith is in self, not in God. Therefore they try and meet their own needs. Matt. 6:33 says when we make God’s kingdom and His righteousness a priority He will meet our needs.” Karen Cochran
Read Psalm 1 every day this week! Pray before you begin beloved of the LORD …. and realize that He loves you more than you can possibly fathom!
The only way to know true love is to know God via the Son of His love – Jesus Christ – who in the greatest act of love ever, came and died for us, sinners.
“What shall we then say to these things? If God be for us, who can be against us? 32 He that spared not his own Son, but delivered him up for us all, how shall he not with him also freely give us all things? 33 Who shall lay any thing to the charge of God’s elect? It is God that justifieth. 34 Who is he that condemneth? It is Christ that died, yea rather, that is risen again, who is even at the right hand of God, who also maketh intercession for us. 35 Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? shall tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or peril, or sword? 36 As it is written, For thy sake we are killed all the day long; we are accounted as sheep for the slaughter. 37 Nay, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him that loved us. 38 For I am persuaded, that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor powers, nor things present, nor things to come, 39 Nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature, shall be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord.” Romans 8:31-39
Here are 2 more passages that clearly reveal that the LORD loves His people immensely:
“How precious also are thy thoughts unto me, O God! how great is the sum of them! 18 If I should count them, they are more in number than the sand: when I awake, I am still with thee.” Psalms 139:17-18
“Behold, what manner of love the Father hath bestowed upon us, that we should be called the sons of God: therefore the world knoweth us not, because it knew him not. 2 Beloved, now are we the sons of God, and it doth not yet appear what we shall be: but we know that, when he shall appear, we shall be like him; for we shall see him as he is.” 1 John 3:1-2
MESSAGE:
“Can you guys pray for my anxiety, it’s amped up at the moment. Thank you so much.”
REPLY:
Who’s battling anxiety, fear? Divine prescription: Memorize Proverbs 1:33 and meditate on it. King James Bible as always. Also pour prayerfully over 1 John 4:16-18 and worship Him afresh beloved!!!! Jesus Christ is LORD. Write out Proverbs 1:33 (KJB) on an index card. Begin pouring over it, reading it prayerfully. Memorize it. Meditate upon it. As the song says, “ALL fear is gone”!
As the Hymn Says “ALL Fear is Gone”
Deliverance from all fear happens from the inside out according to 1 John 4:16-18 and Proverbs 1:33 etc.
ARE YOU bound by fear? What’s the source? Not God because “God hath NOT give us the spirit of fear.” (2 Timothy 1:7)
Denounce the fear verbally and ask God to make you one with Him (John 17), to fill you with His love which eradicates all fear 1 John 4:18 …. Also, in prayer, denounce all fear and never say “I am a worry wart” ever again. Memorize Proverbs 1:33 and 2 Timothy 1:7. Search, meditate upon, and speak God’s Word (Joshua 1:8).
Internalize Proverbs 1:33 today. God is going to change your life forever. Especially by memorizing Proverbs 1:33 !!!!
Love this:
“Fear hath torment” ….
Take, ingest these 2 GosPills: Proverbs 1:33; 1 John 4:18 all fear vanquished.
As we read in 1 John 4:16-18, we see that intimacy with the LORD is the only answer to man’s fear and such is available exclusively and only to the children of God. May we learn to kiss the waves of fear which slam us against the Rock of ages who alone can and will vanquish them!
IF I am not truly seeking the face of the LORD, engaging daily in the life-giving abiding relationship He desires, I am simply going through religious motions, have a hardened heart, and a mere “form of godliness.” (1 Chronicles 16:11; Psalms 27:4, 8; Philippians 3:10; 2 Timothy 3:5) | Seeking God
“The chains of love are stronger than the chains of fear.” William Gurnall
Fear’s only cure is the love of God – us being made one with Him (John 17; 1 John 4:16-18). Pouring prayerfully over John 17 and 1 John 4:16-18 is a life-changer! Thank YOU Jesus! Asking the LORD to make you ONE with Him goes to the center of why Jesus came! (John 17:3).
Studies reveal that the vast majority of things we fear never come to pass.
After promising specifically that He is always going to provide the necessities for His children, protect them, and nourish them, Jesus says:
“But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you. 34 Take therefore no thought for the morrow: for the morrow shall take thought for the things of itself. Sufficient unto the day is the evil thereof.” Matthew 6:33-34
The Holy Spirit inspired the prophet Isaiah to pen these wonderful words:
“Fear thou not; for I am with thee: be not dismayed; for I am thy God: I will strengthen thee; yea, I will help thee; yea, I will uphold thee with the right hand of my righteousness.” Isaiah 41:10
Fear is not of God but rather comes by an evil spirit – “the spirit of fear.“
“For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind.” 2 Timothy 1:7
“We have to move out of our spiritual boxes and abandon the doubt, the guilt, and the fear that constrict our souls. There’s a wideness in GOD’S mercy.” Liza Young
WHO to Fear and Who not to Fear
“And fear not them which kill the body, but are not able to kill the soul: but rather fear him which is able to destroy both soul and body in hell.” Matthew 10:28
“If you fear God, you really need fear nothing else.” Zac Poonen
Memory truth:
“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.” Luke 10:19
Prayer is communing with the LORD which causes all fear to be vanquished.
“Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God. 7 And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.” Philippians 4:6-7
“I’m not afraid of the devil. He can’t handle the One to whom I’m joined.” AW Tozer
Are you facing fear today? Perhaps you are afraid of losing your job, of developing cancer or being left by your spouse. At times all of us experience fear. But don’t allow fear to keep you from being used by God. He has kept you thus far; trust Him for the rest of the way.” Woodrow Kroll
“Worry is a cycle of inefficient thoughts whirling around a center of fear.” Corrie Ten Boom
“Fear is something that we’ve all struggled with at some point in our lives. Whether it’s the fear that comes with a bad report from a doctor or a low bank account, or a more nameless fear of people and life in general, it can steal our joy and life. But it’s not supposed to be that way! God wants us to “fear not.” If you’re trying to overcome fear in your life, I pray that these quotes and verses will give you encouragement, faith, and renewed strength!” unknown
God wants His children “quiet from fear of evil.” (Proverbs 1:33) Memorizing Proverbs 1:33 today from the King James Bible is a life changer.
The fear of evil is vanquished as we draw nigh to God in faith, truly trusting Him …
“But whoso hearkeneth unto me shall dwell safely, and shall be quiet from fear of evil.” Proverbs 1:33
“We shall be quiet from the fear of evil, for no threatenings of evil shall penetrate into the high tower of God.” Hannah Whitall Smith
Seeking the LORD is always the answer. Getting delivered from “ALL” fear:
“I sought the LORD, and he heard me, and delivered me from all my fears.” Psalms 34:4
Notice here that one must seek the LORD for deliverance from fear.
Prayer: Heavenly Father, I come now to You in the name of Jesus Christ my Master, King, and Savior. LORD, please forgive my sin of unbelief and for not seeking Your holy face continually. Here and now I turn to You afresh, openly admitting my own sin in repentance LORD. I now confess my sin of self-idolatry, asking You to forgive and wash me afresh in Thy blood LORD Jesus. Please establish my life in You, grounded in the faith of Your beautiful Gospel and identify and remove all fear from my life other than the fear of You. I ask You to make me one with You LORD, allowing me to dwell in an ever-deepening oneness with You. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
Support | STORE | Podcasts | Because You Care Page | The Greatest of these is Charity | Be Ready in the Morning [podcast] | The Sure Mercies of David [podcast] | That Repentance and Remission of Sins should be Preached [podcast] | At His Feet | Prepared to be Used of God | Waste | Stewardship | Giving | Let Him be Your Fear [podcast] | Why We Need Not Fear Death | Fear Not Little Flock | The Glorious Church Jesus is Returning For [podcast]
Abiding
Jacob’s Ladder: What Does it Mean to Us? [podcast]
Jacob’s Ladder: What Does it Mean to Us?
Jacob’s ladder was a prophetic prefiguring of how God was going to open up access to His throne of saving, divinely enabling grace by the sacrifice of His only begotten Son (Hebrews 4:14-16).
Jacob means supplanter, deceiver. To supplant means to displace another from what is theirs. It’s when someone or something takes the place of another, as through usurping force, scheming, strategy, or the like.
The sin, the work of the flesh called “emulations” in the New Testament Scriptures seems to best fit Jacob’s nature of striving to excel at the expense of others (Galatians 5:19-21). This is exactly what Jacob did to his brother Esau who as the elder brother, and as such, was supposed to receive the blessing of the firstborn son from their father (Isaac). Jacob cheated his older brother Esau out of the birthright which was due to the firstborn son, Esau (Genesis 27:36). Like Jacob, every born again believer has iniquitous tendencies that God graciously deals with and delivers us from, yet only as the saint continues, remains and abides in Christ (John 15).
Genesis 28:10-22
10 And Jacob went out from Beersheba, and went toward Haran (parched).
11 And he lighted upon a certain place, and tarried there all night, because the sun was set; and he took of the stones of that place, and put them for his pillows, and lay down in that place to sleep.
12 And he dreamed, and behold a ladder set up on the earth, and the top of it reached to heaven: and behold the angels of God ascending and descending on it.
13 And, behold, the LORD stood above it, and said, I am the LORD God of Abraham thy father, and the God of Isaac: the land whereon thou liest, to thee will I give it, and to thy seed (here God confirms the promise of Abraham, the Abrahamic covenant);
14 And thy seed shall be as the dust of the earth, and thou shalt spread abroad to the west, and to the east, and to the north, and to the south: and in thee and in thy seed shall all the families of the earth be blessed.
15 And, behold, I am with thee, and will keep thee in all places whither thou goest, and will bring thee again into this land; for I will not leave thee, until I have done that which I have spoken to thee of.
16 And Jacob awaked out of his sleep, and he said, Surely the LORD is in this place; and I knew it not (confirmation).
17 And he was afraid, and said, How dreadful is this place! this is none other but the house of God, and this is the gate of heaven.
18 And Jacob rose up early in the morning, and took the stone that he had put for his pillows, and set it up for a pillar, and poured oil upon the top of it.
19 And he called the name of that place Bethel: but the name of that city was called Luz at the first.
20 And Jacob vowed a vow, saying, If God will be with me, and will keep me in this way that I go, and will give me bread to eat, and raiment to put on,
21 So that I come again to my father’s house in peace; then shall the LORD be my God:
22 And this stone, which I have set for a pillar, shall be God’s house: and of all that thou shalt give me I will surely give the tenth unto thee.
Notice, “the LORD stood above it.” (v13) This speaks of Christ and how He is Creator and rules and reigns over all the earth and this is prophetic as to Heaven’s King coming to the earth to redeem mankind, paying the ransom price in full, redeeming the world, bridging the gap, as only He could do. No one else qualified because sinners can’t save or forgive sinners.
“The Son of man hath power on earth to forgive sins.” Matthew 9:6
The ladder Jacob was shown in his dream speaks of the beautiful “access” to the Father and Son made possible via the perfect sacrifice, redemptive work of Jesus Christ. It reveals the work of Heaven, the work of God and His holy angels in the earth among men – to bring to Himself every “willing and obedient” soul “until the fulness of the Gentiles be come in.” (Isaiah 1:19-20; John 1:12-13; Romans 11:25)
Christ Gave Us “Access”
“By whom also we have access by faith into this grace wherein we stand, and rejoice in hope of the glory of God.” Romans 5:2
“For through him we both have access by one Spirit unto the Father.” Ephesians 2:18
“In whom we have boldness and access with confidence by the faith of him.” Ephesians 3:12
Only Jesus Qualified to Stand in the Gap – to Bridge the Gap Sin had Caused, our Separation from God
“And I sought for a man among them, that should make up the hedge, and stand in the gap before me for the land, that I should not destroy it: but I found none.” Ezekiel 22:30
This ladder that was shown to Jacob, set up and extending from the earth to Heaven, Christ Himself peering over the top, expresses the “access” to Heaven’s saving grace and all that He died to purchase for His people! (Hebrews 4:14-16, etc.) Jesus Christ was the only One in history who qualified to pay the perfect price for the sins of the whole world – to bring us back to the Father! (Ezekiel 22:30; 2 Corinthians 5:19, 21; 1 Timothy 2:4-6; 1 Peter 3:18; 1 John 2:1-2, etc.).
“Therefore being justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ: 2 By whom also we have access by faith into this grace wherein we stand, and rejoice in hope of the glory of God.” Romans 5:1-2
“Seeing then that we have a great high priest, that is passed into the heavens, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold fast our profession. 15 For we have not an high priest which cannot be touched with the feeling of our infirmities; but was in all points tempted like as we are, yet without sin. 16 Let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of need.” Hebrews 4:14-16
William MacDonald on Jacob’s dream and ladder:
“At Bethel, Jacob had a wonderful dream in which he saw a ladder or staircase extending from earth to heaven. This suggested ‘the fact of a real, uninterrupted, and close communion between heaven and earth, and in particular between God in His glory and man in his solitude.’ … Believers even now can enjoy moment-by-moment fellowship with the Lord. At this time when Jacob’s heart was probably filled with regret for the past, loneliness in the present, and uncertainty about the future, God graciously made a covenant with him as He had with Abraham and Isaac. ‘I am with thee’; safety; I ‘will keep thee in all places whither thou goest’; guidance; ‘will bring thee again into this land’; personal guarantee; ‘I will not leave thee, until I have done that which I have spoken to thee of.’” William MacDonald, Believer’s Bible Commentary, p 64
As they were with God’s provisionary work in Jacob’s life, so angels are busy ministers of God in the lives of His New Testament saints. The words “angel” and “angels” appear 180 times in the New Testament. Here’s but a sampling:
“But to which of the angels said he at any time, Sit on my right hand, until I make thine enemies thy footstool? 14 Are they not all ministering spirits, sent forth to minister for them who shall be heirs of salvation?” Hebrews 1:13-14
“Be not forgetful to entertain strangers: for thereby some have entertained angels unawares.” Hebrews 13:2
Adam Clarke on Jacob’s Ladder
“Genesis 28:12
He dreamed, and behold a ladder – A multitude of fanciful things have been spoken of Jacob’s vision of the ladder, and its signification. It might have several designs, as God chooses to accomplish the greatest number of ends by the fewest and simplest means possible. 1. It is very likely that its primary design was to point out the providence of God, by which he watches over and regulates all terrestrial things; for nothing is left to merely natural causes; a heavenly agency pervades, actuates, and directs all. In his present circumstances it was highly necessary that Jacob should have a clear and distinct view of this subject, that he might be the better prepared to meet all occurrences with the conviction that all was working together for his good. 2. It might be intended also to point out the intercourse between heaven and earth, and the connection of both worlds by the means of angelic ministry. That this is fact we learn from many histories in the Old Testament; and it is a doctrine that is unequivocally taught in the New: Are they not all ministering spirits, sent forth to minister for them who shall be heirs of salvation? 3. It was probably a type of Christ, in whom both worlds meet, and in whom the Divine and human nature are conjoined. The Ladder was set up on the Earth, and the Top of it reached to Heaven; for God was manifested in the Flesh, and in him dwelt all the fullness of the Godhead bodily. Nothing could be a more expressive emblem of the incarnation and its effects; Jesus Christ is the grand connecting medium between heaven and earth, and between God and man. By him God comes down to man; through him man ascends to God. It appears that our Lord applies the vision in this way himself, first, In that remarkable speech to Nathanael, Hereafter ye shall see the heaven opened, and the angels of God ascending and descending on the Son of man, John 1:51. Secondly, in his speech to Thomas, John 14:6: I am the Way, and the truth, and the life; no man cometh unto the Father but by me.”
Think about how Heaven was opened to fallen mankind when Jesus died on that cross, declaring that “It is finished” or the price for man’s sin was paid in full (John 19:30). The veil that separated man from a holy God was ripped in half, was parted, signifying that God had accomplished redemption in His Son and now has come out to meet each man on a personal basis for fellowship and communion. That’s the stated reason for the creation of mankind and why Jesus came to the earth (Exodus 25:8; John 17:3).
“And let them make me a sanctuary; that I may dwell among them.” Exodus 25:8
“And this is life eternal, that they might know thee the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom thou hast sent.” John 17:3
The veil that separated God and man was removed when Jesus died on the cross.
“And the veil of the temple was rent in twain from the top to the bottom.” Mark 15:38
Jesus’ blood satisfied the claims of the Father’s justice to redeem, to buy back to Himself fallen mankind from sin.
“To wit, that God was in Christ, reconciling the world unto himself, not imputing their trespasses unto them; and hath committed unto us the word of reconciliation. 20 Now then we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God did beseech you by us: we pray you in Christ’s stead, be ye reconciled to God. 21 For he hath made him to be sin for us, who knew no sin; that we might be made the righteousness of God in him.” 2 Corinthians 5:19, 21
FB Meyer on Jacob’s Ladder
“Genesis 28:10-22
JACOB’S VISION AT BETHEL
This is the Ladder chapter, in which a wayward, weak man is seen holding fellowship with the Eternal God, who loves us, notwithstanding our unworthiness, and desire to lead us into a life of power and blessedness. It is all wonderful! Notice the four Beholds! Gen_28:12-15. Sunset. Overtaken on a moor by the swift fall of the Oriental night, Jacob had no alternative than to sleep in the open. But he slept to see! Night. There is an open way between heaven and earth for each of us. The movement of the tide and circulation of the blood are not more regular than the inter-communication between heaven and earth. Jacob may have thought that God was local: now he found Him to be omnipresent. Every lonely spot was His house, filled with angels. Morning. Worship, consecration, the vows of God. Put down thy foot on God’s promises. He will do more than He has said. Thou shalt come to thy Father’s house in peace.”
In the night, in the darkest hour of his life, Jacob wrestled with the angel of the LORD and was subdued, was brought down to nothing, dead and buried (Genesis 32). This was the cross that preceded and must precede the resurrection.
Like Jacob, the man who is broken by God will walk with a limp of dependency for the remainder of his days on earth!
“One sign you’ve encountered God is you walk with a limp, not a strut.” unknown
Read Genesis 32.
“I would rather limp into to Heaven than walk into HELL!” Charles Pray
Christ is depicted here in this ladder from the earth to Heaven. Jesus Christ alone bridged the gap between Heaven and earth, the chasm caused by sin, at the fall of mankind in the Garden.
“Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me.” John 14:6
Jacob’s ladder depicted here connecting Heaven and earth is not to be viewed as something we climb in order to merit or earn the favor, grace, mercy, salvation, and blessings of God (Ephesians 2:8-9; Titus 3:5-7). No, it seems to speak of the activity, the busy, active involvement of Heaven in the work of redemption concerning the operations of Christ’s kingdom on earth. This is what Jesus was speaking of when He spoke to Nathaniel:
“And he saith unto him, Verily, verily, I say unto you, Hereafter ye shall see heaven open, and the angels of God ascending and descending upon the Son of man.” John 1:51
When Jesus said these words it concerned Him and His ministry and mission on earth the first time He came. Thereafter it pertains to making good on His perfect salvation plan for mankind where now having accomplished redemption, He now reigns again in glory at His Father’s right hand, ever living to provide what He died to purchase! Books of Hebrews.
In this illustrative ladder from Heaven vision, God is saying that He will and is providing everything needed for everyone who desires to be His, straight from His holy throne in Heaven. The redemption that is Christ, the Word, the Holy Spirit, and His holy angels come to mind as agents of the redemption of Heaven working in the earth today.
As glory’s Great Intercessor, Jesus lives to provide what He died to purchase for His beloved people.
“But this man, because he continueth ever, hath an unchangeable priesthood. 25 Wherefore he is able also to save them to the uttermost that come unto God by him, seeing he ever liveth to make intercession for them. 26 For such an high priest became us, who is holy, harmless, undefiled, separate from sinners, and made higher than the heavens;” Hebrews 7:24-26
Jacob’s ladder, Heaven opened to fallen mankind, is a type of Christ who is man’s only “way” to God, the only “Mediator” between God and man and to God, who is in Heaven.
“For there is one God, and one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus;” 1 Timothy 2:5
Christ alone accomplished such blessed reconciliation for us and every blessing from God comes through our LORD Jesus (2 Corinthians 1:20). So Jacob’s ladder is a type of Christ who is man’s only “way” to God, the only “Mediator between God and men” who is now in Heaven intercedoing for us on the right hand of His Father (Hebrews 7:24-26).
“I am the vine, ye are the branches: He that abideth in me, and I in him, the same bringeth forth much fruit: for without me ye can do nothing.” John 15:5
John Wesley on Jacob’s Ladder:
“Behold a ladder set upon the earth, and the top of it reached heaven, the angels ascending and descending on it, and the Lord stood above it – This might represent The providence of God, by which there is a constant correspondence kept up between heaven and earth. The counsels of heaven are executed on earth, and the affairs of this earth are all known in heaven. Providence doth his work gradually and by steps; angels are employed as ministering spirits to serve all the designs of providence, and the wisdom of God is at the upper end of the ladder, directing all the motions of second causes to his glory. The angels are active spirits, continually ascending and descending; they rest not day nor night. They ascend to give account of what they have done, and to receive orders; and descend to execute the orders they have received. This vision gave seasonable comfort to Jacob, letting him know that he had both a good guide and good guard; that though he was to wander from his father’s house, yet he was the care of Providence, and the charge of the holy angels. The mediation of Christ. He is this ladder: the foot on earth in his human nature, the top in heaven in his divine nature; or the former is his humiliation, the latter is his exaltation. All the intercourse between heaven and earth since the fall is by this ladder. Christ is the way: all God’s favours come to us, and all our services come to him, by Christ. If God dwell with us, and we with him, it is by Christ: we have no way of getting to heaven but by this ladder; for the kind offices the angels do us, are all owing to Christ, who hath reconciled things on earth and things in heaven, Col_1:20.”
David W. Dyer on Jacob’s ladder:
“JACOB’S DREAM: While Jacob was fleeing from his brother Esau, he spent a night in the wilderness. There he used a stone for a pillow. While he slept, he dreamed a wonderful dream. In the dream he saw “…a ladder set up on the earth, and its top reached to heaven; and there the angels of God were ascending and descending on it” (Gen 28:12). When he woke up, he realized that this was a special place. He named it “Bethel” which means “the house of God.” You see, when we are truly being God’s house, when we are fulfilling the requirements of being in the Spirit and led by our Head, in that place and at that time the heavens are opened. The presence of God becomes real to us. We actually experience being the “house” or habitation of God in a corporate way – the “Bethel” of today. At these times there is truly an open heaven. The presence of God is very real. His authority or “throne” is known to us. Revelation, enlightenment, and spiritual understanding is occurring. Further, the ministering spirits, the angels, are coming and going – “ascending and descending” – bringing messages from the throne and perhaps “carrying” the praises and petitions of the members back with them. Of course we are describing something spiritual here with earthly words. Perhaps exact details of this angelic traffic cannot be known exactly. Yet, in such heavenly situations, the proximity of ministering angels is very real. Perhaps we are not very aware of it, but it is occurring. We, God’s people have the wonderful privilege of entering into His presence together. When we meet, we can enjoy an “open heaven” where the invisible things of His kingdom become real to us. As we enter into the Spirit together, the unimaginable wonders of Jesus and His will for us are available for us to possess. We, insignificant human beings, can enjoy the reality of being the habitation of the Most High God. May we never be satisfied with anything less!” Let My People God!
PRAYER: Father, we come to You now, in the name of Jesus Christ, our sole, our only access, ladder, way to You. Please teach us Your ways. Let us be truly crucified with Christ as we enjoy all the benefits You provided to us through Him. May our communion and fellowship with You and Your people be sweet, blessed, and fruitful to Your eternal glory as we eagerly look for Your soon return LORD. In Jesus’ name, amen.
Support | STORE | Podcasts | Fresh Start with God | Audios | Discipleship | Genesis
Abiding
“If God be For Us Who can be Against Us?” [podcast]
WHO is God truly “with”?
“And he went out to meet Asa, and said unto him, Hear ye me, Asa, and all Judah and Benjamin; The Lord is with you, while ye be with him; and IF YE SEEK HIM, he will be found of you; but IF ye forsake him, he will forsake you.” 2 Chronicles 15:2
What happens when one of His children deny Him?
“It is a faithful saying: For if we be dead with him, we shall also live with him: 12 if we suffer, we shall also reign with him: if we deny him, he also will deny us: 13 if we believe not, yet he abideth faithful: he cannot deny himself.” 2 Timothy 2:11-13
Those who reject Him shall be rejected by Him. OSAS/eternal security is a fairy tale espoused by the moral cowards who refuse to serve God on HIS stated terms – repentance, faith, true worship, obedience, holiness, the crucified life, etc.
“And whosoever shall not receive you, nor hear your words, when ye depart out of that house or city, shake off the dust of your feet. 15 Verily I say unto you, It shall be more tolerable for the land of Sodom and Gomorrha in the day of judgment, than for that city.” Matthew 10:14-15
Persecution and the Disciple of Jesus
1 Peter 4
“But the end of all things is at hand: be ye therefore sober, and watch unto prayer.
8 And above all things have fervent charity among yourselves: for charity shall cover the multitude of sins.
9 Use hospitality one to another without grudging.
10 As every man hath received the gift, even so minister the same one to another, as good stewards of the manifold grace of God.
11 If any man speak, let him speak as the oracles of God; if any man minister, let him do it as of the ability which God giveth: that God in all things may be glorified through Jesus Christ, to whom be praise and dominion for ever and ever. Amen.”
Suffering as a Christian
12 Beloved, think it not strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you, as though some strange thing happened unto you:
13 But rejoice, inasmuch as ye are partakers of Christ’s sufferings; that, when his glory shall be revealed, ye may be glad also with exceeding joy.
14 If ye be reproached for the name of Christ, happy are ye; for the spirit of glory and of God resteth upon you: on their part he is evil spoken of, but on your part he is glorified.
15 But let none of you suffer as a murderer, or as a thief, or as an evildoer, or as a busybody in other men’s matters.
16 Yet if any man suffer as a Christian, let him not be ashamed; but let him glorify God on this behalf.
17 For the time is come that judgment must begin at the house of God: and if it first begin at us, what shall the end be of them that obey not the gospel of God?
18 And if the righteous scarcely be saved, where shall the ungodly and the sinner appear?
19 Wherefore let them that suffer according to the will of God commit the keeping of their souls to him in well doing, as unto a faithful Creator.”
Romans 8
“And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose.
29 For whom he did foreknow, he also did predestinate to be conformed to the image of his Son, that he might be the firstborn among many brethren.
30 Moreover whom he did predestinate, them he also called: and whom he called, them he also justified: and whom he justified, them he also glorified.”
God’s Everlasting Love
31 What shall we then say to these things? If God be for us, who can be against us?
32 He that spared not his own Son, but delivered him up for us all, how shall he not with him also freely give us all things?
33 Who shall lay any thing to the charge of God’s elect? It is God that justifieth.
34 Who is he that condemneth? It is Christ that died, yea rather, that is risen again, who is even at the right hand of God, who also maketh intercession for us.
35 Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? shall tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or peril, or sword?
36 As it is written, For thy sake we are killed all the day long; we are accounted as sheep for the slaughter.
37 Nay, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him that loved us.
38 For I am persuaded, that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor powers, nor things present, nor things to come,
39 Nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature, shall be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord.”
“Romans 8:29: For whom he did foreknow, etc. – “In this and the following verse the apostle shows how our calling is an argument that all things work together to advance our eternal happiness, by showing the several steps which the wisdom and goodness of God have settled, in order to complete our salvation. In order to this he first gives us, in this verse, the foundation and finishing, or the beginning and end, of the scheme of our redemption: For whom God did foreknow, he also did predestinate to be conformed to the image of his Son. To foreknow, here signifies to design before, or at the first forming of the scheme; to bestow the favor and privilege of being God’s people upon any set of men, Rom_11:2. This is the foundation or first step of our salvation; namely, the purpose and grace of God, which was given us in Christ Jesus, before the world began, 2Ti_1:9. Then, he knew or favored us; for in this sense the word to know is taken in a great variety of places, both in the Old and New Testaments. And as he knew the Gentiles then, when the scheme was laid, and before any part of it was executed, consequently, in reference to the execution of this scheme, he foreknew us. This is the first step of our salvation, and the end or finishing of it is our conformity to the Son of God in eternal glory, Rom_8:17, which includes and supposes our moral conformity to him. When God knew us, at the forming of the Gospel scheme; or, when he intended to bestow on us the privilege of being his people; he then destinated or designed us to be conformed to the image of his Son; and, as he destinated or determined us then to this very high honor and happiness, he pre-destinated, fore-ordained, or pre-determined us to it. Thus we are to understand the foundation and finishing of the scheme of our salvation. The foundation is the foreknowledge, or gracious purpose of God; the finishing is our being joint heirs with Christ. Now, our calling or invitation (see on Rom_8:28 (note)) stands in connection with both these.” Adam Clarke
Support | STORE | Podcasts | Jail/Prison Ministry | Mexico Mission here | All Ministry Updates | Hebrew Hogwash | Saved by Grace or Works Righteousness? | Deliverance from Works-Righteousness | Colossal Colossians! | Beware of Dogs | Receive Ye One Another | Beware of Dogs!
“Fear hath Torment” – 100% Deliverance from all Fear! [podcast]
Jacob’s Ladder: What Does it Mean to Us? [podcast]
The Idiocy of Calvinism
Church History or the Scriptures? [podcast]
Mission Mexico Part 46 [podcast]
The Cross in the Book of Job [podcast]
Apostasy Dialogues
The Gracious LORD will Abundantly Pardon [podcast]
“If God be For Us Who can be Against Us?” [podcast]
The Book of Jude Narrated [podcast]
The Song of Moses: God’s Favor upon His People [podcast]
Jesus in Every Book of the Bible
Redemption Through Christ’s Sacrifice [podcast]
The Book of 1 John Narrated [podcast]
“Seven Women shall take hold of One Man” [podcast]
The Idiocy of Calvinism
The Communication of Thy Faith
“Fear hath Torment” – 100% Deliverance from all Fear! [podcast]
Money, Material Wealth, and Riches [podcast]
Jacob’s Ladder: What Does it Mean to Us? [podcast]
“The Supply of the Spirit of Jesus Christ” [podcast]
Exhort One Another Daily [podcast]
Overcoming that Old Serpent, Called the Devil, and Satan [podcast]
Jezebel The Depths of Satan [video]
“Seven Women shall take hold of One Man” [podcast]
Church History or the Scriptures? [podcast]
THE ESSENTIAL IMPORTANCE OF CHRISTOLOGY [podcast]
“I Love You Son” [podcast]
Redemption Through Christ’s Sacrifice [podcast]
“Warn them from Me”: The 3 Things Paul did to Protect God’s People [podcast]
“Fear hath Torment” – 100% Deliverance from all Fear! [podcast]
Jacob’s Ladder: What Does it Mean to Us? [podcast]
The Idiocy of Calvinism
America1 year agoThe Drugging of America: The Pharmakeia Sorcery Deception [podcast]
- Articles3 years ago
Children being Rescued in Tunnels: Happening Now – UPDATE!
- Articles8 years ago
Self-Examination in Preparation for the Lord’s Return
- Apostasy3 years ago
SHOCKING List of False Prophets Most Believe are True
Providing Christ-centered Scripture-rich resources to feed, edify, and equip the body of Christ (John 21:15-17; Ephesians 4:11-15).
Navigation
Quick links
Newsletter
Stay updated of the ministry operations. We saved a spot for you on the ministry email list.
© 2025 Safe Guard Your Soul. All Rights Reserved