Great Commission or Great Hypocrisy?

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Do Your Works Testify that You Worship or Deny Christ?

Are you Fulfilling a New Testament Purpose? Is Your Church?

There nothing transpiring on the earth today more important than the teaching and preaching of God’s Word. Every true remnant saint is involved (Matthew 28:18-20; Mark 16:15; Acts, etc.). No work on earth is of eternal significance except the work of Christ’s Gospel (Mark 8:38). Are you participating?

When He saved you, your life ended and His glorious life began.

“I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me: and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave himself for me.” Galatians 2:20

That’s right, all your personal “rights” are done and over.

“For ye are dead, and your life is hid with Christ in God.” Colossians 3:3

Any questions? Is this not exactly what symbolized in baptism? – You are doornail dead and Christ now lives and reigns in and through your whole being.

“Know ye not, that so many of us as were baptized into Jesus Christ were baptized into his death? ⁴Therefore we are buried with him by baptism into death: that like as Christ was raised up from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life.” Romans 6:3-4

Let me say here that if you are not hearing this kind of Bible preaching, the cross life, you are sitting under a hireling wolf. This is basic Bible truth friend. Anyone hiding this from you is playing you – is using you for your money and approval (Philippians 3:18-19).

WANT TO SEE WHO’S READY TO MEET JESUS? Hand on the plow! (Luke 9:62) God’s remnant IS, definitively, busy about HIS Great Commission business (Matthew 28:18-20; Mark 16:15-20; Luke 2:49; 24:47). The counterfeit church is playing games, building earthly kingdoms on sinking sand.

Christ’s Unchanging Great Commission

Any person not living a Great Commission life, is living a wasted life. They are out of the will of God. Read that again.

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

“It is our place, in following of our Lord, to continue His teaching until He returns (Matthew 28:18-20).” AB

Do you realize that following Jesus means following what He taught? See Mark 8:38 and John 8:47; 14:15, 21; 1 John 2:4-6. Do you realize that God gave us the record of Christ’s earliest disciples so that we could measure just what is true and what is false in our current day? The book of Acts in particular. What were His first followers doing, before any wolves or false teaching had time to enter in? Here’s a taste and a way to determine who is and who is not in the will of God today, namely those in ministry positions.

“And daily in the temple, and in every house, they ceased not to teach and preach Jesus Christ.” Acts 5:42

This is a verse of holy truth to be memorized. It’s very telling. These true disciples of Jesus were obeying His command to “teach and preach Jesus Christ.”

Do we realize that only those obeying what Jesus taught are actually following Him?

Are you doing the Great Commission Jesus commanded OR, are you doing your own thing? It’s one or the other friend. Personally, in light of this truth, I like to begin my days with a prayer something like this…

PRAYER: Father, in the name of Jesus, I ask You to use me today for Your glory. In Jesus’ name, amen.

“Making a Difference”

Am I “making a difference” is a good question to ask ourselves. Did you realize that this phrase appears in God’s Word? Watch the context closely okay:

“But ye, beloved, building up yourselves on your most holy faith, praying in the Holy Ghost, 21 Keep yourselves in the love of God, looking for the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ unto eternal life. 22 And of some have compassion, MAKING A DIFFERENCE: 23 And others save with fear, pulling them out of the fire; hating even the garment spotted by the flesh.” Jude 20-23

According to this passage, to be “making a difference” for God’s glory and not wasting our lives, we must be built up in the power of the Holy Ghost (v20), to keep ourselves full of God’s love (v21), to not be self-righteous but rather be “looking for the mercy of our LORD,” (v21) to have compassion (v22), to make a difference, to preach the judgment of hell to come in the fear of God (v23), and to keep our blood washed garments (robes of His righteousness) “unspotted.” (v23)

But how can I make a difference one might ask. Can you smile and tell someone Jesus died for our sins? Can you tell someone how Christ has made a difference in your life? Can you hand out a Gospel literature so blessed souls can find their way home to Jesus? What are you doing to make a difference for Christ in the lives of others?

ARE YOU INVOLVED IN GOD’S “BUSINESS” OR MAN’S? ARE YOU WASTING YOUR TIME AND THE LORD’S TIME? Child of God, do you know what God’s “business” is? The LORD calls His true children to be about HIS “business” and what is HIS “business” as opposed to sinful man’s undertakings? (Luke 2:49) We claim to be following Jesus and so it is only fair that we find out what Jesus says the “Father’s business” is, right? (Luke 2:49) Jesus says He came “to seek and to save that which was lost,” that is, to save them from sin and “eternal damnation.” (Mark 3:29; Luke 19:10; 1 Timothy 1:15) What could be more plain? Those who are truly following Christ, and the only ones that are overcoming and will escape hell, are busy preaching/communicating and teaching His Word which holds the only answer to man’s dilemma – sin. Fighting cancer, promoting politicians, rescuing dogs, etc., is not what God calls us to and such will never bring root deliverance or the escape from sin and the lake of fire. That is actually luciferic dominionism which is the vain attempt to preserve this fallen world simply and selfishly to make this temporary home a better dwelling place. Such is utter futility and sin against the Almighty. God is going to renovate and make all things new but first He will allow them to be burned up (Isaiah 65:17; 2 Peter 3). To put money, effort, time, and energies into anything but His blessed Gospel is brazen rebellion against the Savior who came and bled on that cross, rose again, and commanded His children to go and spread His Word. It’s time to repent and return to the LORD before it’s too late.

Don’t you know that Satan, the enemy of all souls, rejoices every time a professing Christian gives money, time, or energy to “false burdens” that are not the “Father’s business”?

The ONLY “business” of the true body of Christ is Jesus’ “business”– that of worshiping the LORD together, teaching God’s Word, and winning lost souls to Jesus! In fact, the simplest fruit to judge any person by is by their works. Are they “about” the “Father’s business” or some (any) other business?

Is it not hypocrisy to claim to be Christians and not follow Christ? That is, not follow what mandate He gave to His people to go teach His Word and preach His Good News?
ANY individual or group or local church not doing what Jesus commanded, namely the Great Commission, is not fulfilling a New Testament purpose and is apostate! I’m not talking about the pastor winning souls from the pulpit either. That’s good but he is to be teaching those he leads to do “the work of the ministry.” Read Ephesians 4:11-14 for the job description of all under-shepherds.
The work of God’s true people is NOT politics but rather the Great Commission. This is rendering obedience to Christ. The work of the true disciple is not to help a mere man build his own vision or church business but rather to spread the seed of the Word of God in evangelizing the lost souls of men and by teaching other believers the full-counsel of God’s Word. Are YOU about the Father’s business or has Satan derailed you? What shall you answer to Him on that final Day of reckoning? How shall you answer Him if you squandered the time He gave you in this brief life on temporal things that have no matter in the kingdom of God? Will you hear from Him “Enter thou my good and faithful servant!”? Or, “Depart from me!”?

Jesus told His very own people that in order for them to be with Him in eternity, they were required to overcome and keep His works to the end of their lives.

“And he that overcometh, and keepeth my works unto the end, to him will I give power over the nations:” Revelation 2:26

Someone may ask: “But I thought I was ‘once saved always saved’ and that my works don’t matter and that by obeying God then I am trying to work my way to Heaven.”

This is the exact thing millions of deceived people have been taught in the apostate evangelical church world in America. Millions have been sold a bag of goods (a false gospel).

“And why call ye me, Lord, Lord, and do not the things which I say?” Luke 6:46

Let’s talk about God’s Word and allow the Almighty to speak for Himself. Deal?

One element we must beware of and detach from all involvement with, is trying to save this sinful, failing world. We should beware of movements and ministries like patriotism in trying to preserve or save America. Saving America or trying to make this sinful world a better place is not the Great Commission command Jesus gave us.

Any ministry that is not all about teaching the pure Word and reaching lost souls, is not fulfilling a New Testament purpose and is in fact in rebellion. God forbid that we touch or condone or further the cause of any such false ministry! Here’s what Jesus’ followers are all about, without fail – “And Jesus came and spake unto them, saying, All power is given unto me in heaven and in earth. 19Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost: 20Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you always, even unto the end of the world. Amen.” (Matthew 28:18-20) It’s real simple: Those who follow Christ obey Christ and are all about Christ and not swept away with causes that do not pertain to Christ who died and rose again to save lost souls from sin and eternal damnation! NOTHING else really matters no matter how sympathetic the cause is mean to seem. Breast cancer? NO! Sin is the cancer Jesus bled to heal! Those who name the name of Christ should immediately repent of the sin of neglecting Christ’s work and putting resources into the worlds futile help programs. They are futile and totally in vain! If we are going to feed the poor, let’s do it and give them the Gospel, the only healing balm for their eternal souls!

Consider the words/teaching of Jesus:

“And when he had called the people unto him with his disciples also, he said unto them, Whosoever will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me. 35 For whosoever will save his life shall lose it; but whosoever shall lose his life for my sake and the gospel’s, the same shall save it. 36 For what shall it profit a man, if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul? 37 Or what shall a man give in exchange for his soul? 38 Whosoever therefore shall be ashamed of me and of my words in this adulterous and sinful generation; of him also shall the Son of man be ashamed, when he cometh in the glory of his Father with the holy angels.” Mark 8:34-38

Beloved saints, what does it matter if we feed the poor and clothe the naked and yet don’t give them the soul-saving Word of the Gospel? Is God glorified? No! So, that person eats well, forgoes cancer, then dies and goes to the fires of eternal damnation. What a farce and Satan loves it!

Can anyone argue with the truth of this simple statement?

“We should be winning Souls to Jesus, the world is gonna burn with fire. I can understand standing in the gap and praying for our kings and nation. Moses did that for Israel a few times and we are commanded to do so and yet many go to an extreme that makes us wonder why they don’t fight that way for God and simply do what Jesus sent us to do in His Great Commission command.” Luciano P. Pisco

We better repent and “touch not” any “unclean” organization or program that is not giving the healing balm of God’s holy truth. The LORD says we are His very enemies if we dare do such by helping the “ungodly”:

“Be ye not unequally yoked together with unbelievers: for what fellowship hath righteousness with unrighteousness? and what communion hath light with darkness? 15 And what concord hath Christ with Belial? or what part hath he that believeth with an infidel? 16 And what agreement hath the temple of God with idols? for ye are the temple of the living God; as God hath said, I will dwell in them, and walk in them; and I will be their God, and they shall be my people. 17 Wherefore come out from among them, and be ye separate, saith the Lord, and touch not the unclean thing; and I will receive you, 18 And will be a Father unto you, and ye shall be my sons and daughters, saith the Lord Almighty.” 2 Corinthians 6:14-18

Never join a cause or enter into any alliance that does not have Jesus and His blessed and everlasting Gospel at its heart.

“Shouldest thou help the ungodly, and love them that hate the LORD? therefore is wrath upon thee from before the LORD.” 2 Chronicles 19:2

The “ungodly” are revealed clearly “by their fruits” – their alliances, alignments, their focus and works (Matthew 7:16, 20). If their focus is on “earthly things,” they are the very “enemies of the cross of Christ.” (Philippians 3:18-21) Those who are truly Christ’s sheep are looking unto JESUS who is the very author and finisher of their faith … Their “conversation (focus, way of life) is in heaven; from whence also we look for the Saviour, the Lord Jesus Christ:” (Philippians 3:20)

False Prophets lead people to “false burdens” that do not pertain directly to being born again and spending eternity with Christ.

“Thy (false) prophets have seen vain and foolish things for thee: and they have not discovered thine iniquity, to turn away thy captivity (deliver them from bondage); but have seen for thee false burdens and causes of banishment.” Lamentations 2:14

Lamentation 2:14 actually defines who false prophets are. Look closely at that verse and commit it to memory. Use that truth to discern who is a wolf and who is true to Christ.

For this rebellion, God was going to banish His people. That’s what “causes of banishment”means here. God is going to judge all who go astray from Him and His cause!

A “false burden” is one that is amiss from the aim of the LORD as stated in His Word (Lamentations 2:14). Examples of “false burdens” that lure the emotions of millions today:

Habitat for Humanity
Animal (beast) rights and causes
Cancer causes
“Mission trips” where the mission of Christ to save souls from sin and hell is not preached
Susan G Komen Foundation of deceit and death to children
Planned Parenthood or Planned MURDERhood

Jesus says to leave those things that do not pertain to His kingdom to the world:

“And he said unto another, Follow me. But he said, Lord, suffer me first to go and bury my father. 60 Jesus said unto him, Let the dead bury their dead: but go thou and preach the kingdom of God. 61 And another also said, Lord, I will follow thee; but let me first go bid them farewell, which are at home at my house. 62 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 9:59-62

What cause are you supporting, promoting? is it the Gospel? Some people who vainly claim to love Jesus, have and show more sympathy toward beasts (animals) than they do human beings, the highest form of God’s creation. Astounding hypocrisy!

Of the focus of the Gospel of Jesus, Rich Monson writes:

“Pastors are called to be given over to the Word and prayer to equip the body for the work of ministry and this is to be done to the glory of God (Ephesians 4:11-14). Teaching the Word that we may be conformed to the image of Christ and that we may go out and win the lost. All else in contrast falls far far under the shadow of these two eternal priorities. At any cost gett’m saved, gett’m conformed to Jesus. All else works to these ends, that God be glorified in it all.

Also good to remember what the Lord has said regarding false prophets and teachers in Deuteronomy 13:1-5, 18:19-22. Ezekiel 13:3, Isaiah 30:9-10, Jer 14:14, 23:14-16, :25-26, Mic 3:11, 1 Timothy 4:1-3, 2 Timothy 4:3-5, 2 Peter 2:1-3, Jude. So much the Lord has given us in His grace, so much so that the Church, true believers are absolutely without excuse.”

Read this closely: “For, lo, they that are far from thee shall perish: thou hast destroyed all them that GO A WHORING from thee. 28But it is good for me to draw near to God: I have put my trust in the Lord GOD, that I may declare all thy works (namely the work of Christ’s redemption).” Psalms 73:27-28

Teaching and demonstrating or doing the truth is so very important and is the whole difference. So many in leadership today present much truth but they put their monies and focus where their hearts are – in this fleeting, sinful world. Many dare to spend more resources/monies on temporal buildings, light bills, and even “excess” than on teaching God’s Word to all and winning lost souls. This is what Jesus commanded and if we truly know Him that’s what we are all about (Matthew 28:18-20). Those who aren’t about what Jesus told us to do are not of Him – period.

Of these last days and the essential of obeying Christ alone, Gwendolyn Wehage writes:

“Political issues have caused us to think that a man can save our nation. We are falling off the cliff as a nation and only a miracle of God and the repentance of the people could save this nation. I don’t see that happening because we are in the last days, and God said that in the last days men would lack natural affection, haters of good, lovers of evil, worshipers of creation rather than the Creator. In the last days they would have no shame in their evil deeds. Romans 3:18 Jeremiah 6:15 they no longer have shame about their evil deeds. 2 Timothy 3, the people will be lovers of themselves, boastful, unloving, lovers of money, unthankful, lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God, disrespectful to parents, brutal and despisers of good, traitors, headstrong, hauty, having a form of godliness without understanding what it is. These passages describe how our country and the whole world is like right now. There is not turning back, these are the perilous times God spoke of in 2 Timothy. Our duty is to love Christ, obey Him and stand firm when giving out the gospel.”

Are those who parade with pink in the streets and give money to the sinful world system to help physical and mental ailments following Jesus? No! They are apostate. Those who follow Christ and are therefore the only saved souls, obey Christ and Christ said go preach HIS blessed Gospel and Go teach men all the things HE taught (Matthew 28:18-20; Mark 16:15).

“He that saith, I know him, and keepeth not HIS commandments, is a liar, and the truth is not in him.” 1 John 2:4

You see, many who claim to be saved have all the wherewithal, all the money, all the energy and all the resources available to them to help useless causes for sin-sick humans and pets and none to serve Jesus by doing what He commanded! That’s the fruit of their lives and it clearly testifies to their lost, hell bound condition.

“In Works they Deny Him”

“And he said unto them, Ye are they which justify yourselves before men; but God knoweth your hearts: for that which is highly esteemed among men is abomination in the sight of God.” Luke 16:15

If we are following Jesus – truly – then we are about the “FATHER’s business” and not the unregenerate world’s business! To make themselves feel good for a moment, the lost souls of this world jump into causes such as the Susan G Komen Foundation or Habitat for Humanity. Yet neither of these groups preaches Christ. The Komen Foundation actually gives money to Planned Parenthood to murder precious babies in cold blood. So, no Christian would ever support such an atrocity.

Jesus said: “And he said unto them, How is it that ye sought me? wist (knew) ye not that I must be about my Father’s business?” Luke 2:49

The LORD’s business is His body’s business and anyone not involved in Christ’s business is none of His.

When others seek out and find us, they find those who are about SOMEBODY’s business. Whose? The worlds or the LORD’s? This is the crystal clear issue that reveals who is of God and who isn’t. What a person claims means nothing if it doesn’t manifest in good works or fruit. The Bible teaches that our works plainly testify to whom we are serving.

To that one who would become convicted and cry “But this is lordship salvation,” I would say “Yes, Jesus is the LORD and this is what His Word teaches!” Dare you argue with the very Son of God? Why not simply obey and learn of Him?

Not being about the “Father’s business” is clear proof that we are denying Christ. Really? Yes, read this:

“They profess that they know God; but in works they deny him, being abominable, and disobedient, and unto every good work reprobate.” Titus 1:16

This verse means that though many say they know Jesus, their lack of good works reveal that they do not know Him but rather deny Him who bled for their many sins.

Works don’t save but they are the fruit of who we are truly loving and trusting! The Bible says that even a child is known by what he DOES:

“Even a child is known by his doings, whether his work be pure, and whether it be right.” Proverbs 20:11

Let this sink in saints …. “In WORKS they Deny Him.” (Titus 1:16)

To deny Christ the right to reign in our lives is to deny Christ. Without fail, when Jesus is reigning in our personal lives, His Gospel truth is flowing freely from our lives.

“Also I say unto you, Whosoever shall confess me before men, him shall the Son of man also confess before the angels of God: 9 But he that denieth me before men shall be denied before the angels of God.” Luke 12:8-9

If a person claims to be saved and that person is not learning to lose his life, that person is misled. Paul wrote that “in works” (that testify to saving faith) they deny Christ (Titus 1:16).

Most who call themselves Christians have been misled by the epidemic of wolves who fill pulpits and books and the media with their false gospel message. These men refuse to preach what Jesus said and/or they carefully select and dodge the things in the Gospel that keep people loyal to their own self-serving cause.

When one lays down his life, everything becomes of the LORD and not of self. Losing one’s life is truly what saving faith is:

“Then said Jesus unto his disciples, If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me. 25For whosoever will save his life shall lose it: and whosoever will lose his life for my sake shall find it.” Matthew 16:24-25

Think about this: If one’s life is all about them, then that’s exactly whom they are serving and we know that they can’t save themselves, having rejected the only Savior.

“And that he died for all, that they which live should not henceforth live unto themselves, but unto him which died for them, and rose again.” 2 Corinthians 5:15

I must relinquish control of the reigns of my life and will to the One who is worthy of all my praise as long as He gives me the breath of life. This is what saving faith always does. Do I possess saving faith? If so, I have and am giving my life over to Him daily. He’s reigning in me, not me.

Do we not have this thing called life all wrong? Do we not need a complete transformation of thought? LORD, please have mercy upon us and change us. Amen.

“The One who is the Highest came to become the lowest. We who are the lowest, seek to be the highest.” unknown

Friend, there are no shortcuts – This is the true path to blessedness with God – putting Him first by giving Him and His people more of me daily. In fact, if I am not growing to “give” or serve more, I am not growing as a disciple of my LORD. The true measure of spiritual growth is seen in how much we give of ourselves to God and others.

To the degree I am serving, my spirituality can be measured.

“But he that is greatest among you shall be your servant.” Matthew 23:11

My humility is the true measure of my spirituality and whether or not I truly know the One who came and humbled Himself even unto death for the redemption of my undeserving soul (Philippians 2:3-10).

“But those mine enemies, which would not that I should reign over them, bring hither, and slay them before me.” Luke 19:27

This coincides with all that Jesus says about lordship and is contrasted with those who have a mere “form of godliness” but refuse to repent/surrender and come under the power/authority of Christ (2 Timothy 3:5).

Measuring by the “Fruits”

“Wherefore by their fruits ye shall know them.” Matthew 7:20

In interpreting Scripture with Scripture, we can conclude that the “fruits” Jesus speaks of here pertain to:

Doctrine (Romans 6:16-17; 2 Timothy 3:16-17)
Doings/works (Proverbs 20:11; Titus 1:16; James 2)
Direction (Romans 8:14; Luke 2:49; Philippians 3:17-21)
Disposition (Galatians 5:22-23)

What fruit is there to be seen in your personal life?

Are you learning and obeying “sound doctrine”?

Do your doings or works manifestly testify to a repentant heart?

Are you about the Father’s business?

Is your life characterized by “love, joy, peace …”

“But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, 23 Meekness, temperance: against such there is no law.” Galatians 5:22-23

Those who love, worship, fear, and care about Jesus do the work Jesus sent us to do. Those who don’t do His work clearly manifest their rebellious hearts.

“For the Son of man is come to seek and to save that which was lost.” Luke 19:10

Jesus came to win souls. In fact, His Word tell us:

“The fruit of the righteous is a tree of life; and he that winneth souls is wise.” Proverbs 11:30

A close friend was invited to go feed the homeless. He grabbed a bunch of Gospel tracts and was asked by another worker if he was going pass them out to the homeless they were going to feed. To this he replied:

“Yes, I’m excited to get these tracts out to these precious lost souls. There’s no absolutely no value whatsoever in this activity of making sandwiches for people if that’s all we do.” Tim

A work to help others that does not include giving them the Gospel of Jesus is nothing more than a humanistic endeavor.

“So thou, O son of man, I have set thee a watchman unto the house of Israel; therefore thou shalt hear the word at my mouth, and warn them from me. 8 When I say unto the wicked, O wicked man, thou shalt surely die; if thou dost not speak to warn the wicked from his way, that wicked man shall die in his iniquity; but his blood will I require at thine hand. 9 Nevertheless, if thou warn the wicked of his way to turn from it; if he do not turn from his way, he shall die in his iniquity; but thou hast delivered thy soul.” Ezekiel 33:7-9

Warning people that if they die in their sins, having rejected Jesus Christ, they will spend eternity in hell, is an integral part of the original Gospel (Mark 16:16; Luke 13:3, 5; 2 Corinthians 2:16). So, warning the lost of the divine wrath to come is what the true Gospel does. In fact, the apostle Paul stated:

“Knowing therefore the terror of the Lord, we persuade men.” 2 Corinthians 5:11

Prayer of Repentance: Heavenly Father, thank You for sending Your only begotten Son for my sins and the sins of the whole world. Please forgive me for the sin of neglecting Your Gospel and for allowing myself to be misled by hirelings who do not fear You. Quicken my spirit in Thy Holy fear dear LORD and cause my life to glorify You alone. Fill me afresh with Your precious Holy Ghost and take over my life. From this moment forward I will serve and follow You LORD Jesus. Amen.

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Gospel Tracts

What is the Great Commission? [podcast]

Gospel Keys to Powerful Evangelism!

Abiding

“THE FORMER SHALL NOT BE REMEMBERED, NOR COME INTO MIND” [podcast]

In Eternity “THE FORMER SHALL NOT BE REMEMBERED, NOR COME INTO MIND.”
(Isaiah 65:17)

Our LORD Jesus will soon return to “make all things new.”

“And he that sat upon the throne said, Behold, I make all things new. And he said unto me, Write: for these words are true and faithful.” Revelation 21:5

“For, behold, I create new heavens and a new earth: and THE FORMER SHALL NOT BE REMEMBERED, NOR COME INTO MIND.” Isaiah 65:17

“I create – I am about wholly to change the state not only of my people, but to bring a new face upon the world, which shall abide until a new heavens and earth appear, in which shall dwell nothing but righteousness. Not be remembered – That state of things shall be so glorious, that the former state of my people shall not be remembered.” John Wesley

“Behold a new creation, Isa_65:17-25! The present dispensation is ended. Jerusalem, restored to her former glory, sings for very joy; and her rejoicing sends a thrill of joy through the nature of God. Long years of life and security of tenure are granted again to man. The red rapine of the forest is ended, for creation is emancipated from its bondage and participates in the glorious liberty of the sons of God. Peace shall reign in the forest glades, never again to abdicate her throne, Isa_65:25. But, best of all, there shall be such unity between man and God that prayer will be anticipated, and the pleading soul shall be conscious of the listening ear of God. Hasten, O day of days, for which creation groans, and the saints groan with inexpressible desire!” FB Meyer

“65:17 The closing verses of chapter 65 describe millennial conditions. The new heavens and the new earth here refer to Christ’s kingdom on earth; in Revelation 21 they refer to the eternal state. In Isaiah’s new heavens and new earth there is still sin and death; in Revelation 21, these have passed away.” Believer’s Bible Commentary

Of Isaiah 65:17, another commentator writes the following:

a    [I create new heavens and a new earth; and the former shall not be remembered, nor come into mind] Here God declares that He will create or bring into existence renewed heavens and a renewed earth which will be so wonderful that the present ones will be forgotten in the glory and blessing that will then be enjoyed on the earth by the eternal society.
b    [new heavens and a new earth] This term, “new heavens and a new earth,” is found only four times in Scripture, being used twice by Isaiah (Isa_65:17; Isa_66:22-24), once by Peter (2Pe_3:10-13), and once by John (in Rev. 21:1-22:5). Making the heavens and earth new will be accomplished at the close of the Millennium after all rebellion is put down on earth, all enemies are destroyed, and God has become all in all again, as before rebellion was started—first by Lucifer and later by Adam (Rom_8:18-25; 1Co_15:24-28; Eph_1:10; 2Pe_3:10-13; Rev. 21-22).
c    [former shall not be remembered, nor come into mind]

Great Millennial and Eternal Changes

This could not mean that the former heavens and earth will never be recalled in any way whatsoever. The idea is that comparatively speaking, the new ones will be so wonderful that people will not meditate on, long for, or regret the passing of the old ones. Mentioning the new heavens and the new earth here as an introduction to a passage about the Millennium (Isa_65:18-25) can be best understood in this light—that God’s program concerning the new heavens and the new earth is His ultimate purpose in the work which he begins in the Millennium.

Fifteen Millennial and Eternal Changes:

1.    A new earthly and eternal Jerusalem will be created as the earthly and eternal capital of the whole earth (Isa_65:18; Isa_2:2-4; Eze_48:30-35; Joe_3:16-20)
2.    Eternal Israel (Isa_65:18)
3.    Eternal rejoicing of Israel for their eternal city
4.    God rejoicing eternally in Jerusalem (Isa_65:19)
5.    God rejoicing eternally in Israel
6.    Eternal removal of all weeping and crying in Israel and Jerusalem
7.    Eternal change in length of life—no more an infant of days nor an old man who will not fill his days (Isa_65:20). Men will live as long as trees (Isa_65:22) and eternally in natural bodies (Mat_25:46)
8.    Change in the appointment of death for the righteous, who will not sin (Isa_65:20; Mat_25:46)
9.    Change in the economy—everyone building and possessing his own home, and planting and enjoying his own crops without fear of losing any through debts (Isa_65:21-22)
10.    Removal of the curse of hard labor (Isa_65:23)
11.    Eternal change in purpose and production of material goods—nothing will be produced for war and trouble (Isa_65:23; Isa_2:2-4; Mic_4:1-13)
12.    God’s eternal blessing upon all labor and business (Isa_65:23)
13.    Eternal change of results in prayer (Isa_65:24)
14.    Eternal change of animal natures (Isa_65:25; Isa_11:6-9)
15.    Eternal change in society—none to hurt or destroy in all God’s kingdom (Isa_65:25)

Jesus is Returning to Make Peace by Violence, by Force

“And from the days of John the Baptist until now the kingdom of heaven suffereth violence, and the violent take it by force.” Matthew 11:12

No one can and will fulfill these words above more perfectly than the One who spoke these words.

“Blessed are the peaceMAKERS: for they shall be called the children of God.” Matthew 5:9

In this fallen world, peace cannot be kept, it must be made – that is, it must be forcefully accomplished by destroying the wicked doers.

“A bruised reed shall he not break, and smoking flax shall he not quench, till he send forth judgment unto victory.” Matthew 12:20

Jesus will bring forth His judgment unto victory when He returns.

Jesus came to divide between the righteous and the unrighteous.

“Think not that I am come to send peace on earth: I came not to send peace, but a sword.” Matthew 10:34

Our LORD’s Gospel message which presents the occasion for some to believe and some to reject. This is the “sword” of division that divides between the sheep and the goats (Matthew 25:31-46). The Gospel brings division and strife in families and nations, because some love darkness rather than light (John 3:19-21).

The unrepentant wicked will not repent and change. The LORD will return to crush and to force them into His bowels of damnation, a place of incarceration called hell.

Jesus came as a lamb the first time and will return as the Lion of the Tribe of Judah to dispossess His earth of His enemies.

“A wise king scattereth the wicked, and bringeth the wheel over them.” Proverbs 20:26

All tears shall be wiped away from off the faces of those who choose to be Christ’s!

“And God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes; and there shall be no more death, neither sorrow, nor crying, neither shall there be any more pain: for the former things are passed away. 5 And he that sat upon the throne said, Behold, I make all things new. And he said unto me, Write: for these words are true and faithful.” Revelation 21:45

In a certain sense it doesn’t matter what has come against you, what you have gone through, what you have suffered and endured. The end is near and this life is not even going to “come into mind” for the righteous when Jesus returns! When the unrepentant wicked are vanquished into the bowels of eternal damnation, the righteous shall reign …..

“For if by one man’s offence death reigned by one; much more they which receive abundance of grace and of the gift of righteousness shall reign in life by one, Jesus Christ.)” Romans 5:17

“And not only so, but we glory in tribulations also: knowing that tribulation worketh patience; 4 And patience, experience; and experience, hope: 5 And hope maketh not ashamed; because the love of God is shed abroad in our hearts by the Holy Ghost which is given unto us. 6 For when we were yet without strength, in due time Christ died for the ungodly. 7 For scarcely for a righteous man will one die: yet peradventure for a good man some would even dare to die. 8 But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us. 9 Much more then, being now justified by his blood, we shall be saved from wrath through him. 10 For if, when we were enemies, we were reconciled to God by the death of his Son, much more, being reconciled, we shall be saved by his life. 11 And not only so, but we also joy in God through our Lord Jesus Christ, by whom we have now received the atonement.” Romans 5:3-11

Future Glory

“And if children, then heirs; heirs of God, and joint-heirs with Christ; if so be that we suffer with him, that we may be also glorified together. 18 For I reckon that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory which shall be revealed in us. 19 For the earnest expectation of the creature waiteth for the manifestation of the sons of God. 20 For the creature was made subject to vanity, not willingly, but by reason of him who hath subjected the same in hope, 21 Because the creature itself also shall be delivered from the bondage of corruption into the glorious liberty of the children of God. 22 For we know that the whole creation groaneth and travaileth in pain together until now. 23 And not only they, but ourselves also, which have the firstfruits of the Spirit, even we ourselves groan within ourselves, waiting for the adoption, to wit, the redemption of our body. 24 For we are saved by hope: but hope that is seen is not hope: for what a man seeth, why doth he yet hope for? 25 But if we hope for that we see not, then do we with patience wait for it. 26 Likewise the Spirit also helpeth our infirmities: for we know not what we should pray for as we ought: but the Spirit itself maketh intercession for us with groanings which cannot be uttered. 27 And he that searcheth the hearts knoweth what is the mind of the Spirit, because he maketh intercession for the saints according to the will of God. 28 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. 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 8:17-39

God’s Everlasting Love for His People…..

“The LORD hath appeared of old unto me, saying, Yea, I have loved thee with an everlasting love: therefore with lovingkindness have I drawn thee.” Jeremiah 31:3

In and through Christ – as you are dead with Him and raised up by Him – He makes you to be, He declares us to be “more than conquerors through him that loved us.”

Historically the righteous have disrupted the plans of Satan and have therefore been persecuted… a type of what’s called “political prisoners” who are imprisoned and persecuted for disagreeing with the ruling evil doers.

Let us be reminded saints, that it’s how we finish that matters most, not how we began, and not how we may have stumbled along the way. We are “Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith; who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God” (Hebrews 12:2).

“And the seventh angel sounded; and there were great voices in heaven, saying, The kingdoms of this world are become the kingdoms of our Lord, and of his Christ; and he shall reign for ever and ever.” Revelation 11:15

No saint of Christ has ever gone unscathed, unscarred in this life! It’s actually proof you are HIS! You have no earthly idea how much Jesus loves you! In fact, are we not warned by our LORD that if we are not receiving persecution, that we are not His?

“Blessed are ye, when men shall hate you, and when they shall separate you from their company, and shall reproach you, and cast out your name as evil, for the Son of man’s sake. 23 Rejoice ye in that day, and leap for joy: for, behold, your reward is great in heaven: for in the like manner did their fathers unto the prophets. 24 But woe unto you that are rich! for ye have received your consolation. 25 Woe unto you that are full! for ye shall hunger. Woe unto you that laugh now! for ye shall mourn and weep. 26 Woe unto you, when all men shall speak well of you! for so did their fathers to the false prophets.” Luke 6:22-26

“If we suffer, we shall also reign with 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:” 2 Timothy 2:11-12

Jesus promised us, His people, that we’d suffer for being His (Matthew 5:10-12; 10:22; Luke 6:22-24; 2 Timothy 3:12; 1 Peter 4:12-14, etc.).

“They shall be priests of God and of Christ, and shall reign with him a thousand years.”

“Blessed and holy is he that hath part in the first resurrection: on such the second death hath no power, but they shall be priests of God and of Christ, and shall reign with him a thousand years.” Revelation 20:6

In this life, you don’t even have the ability to imagine the blessings that await you!

“But as it is written, Eye hath not seen, nor ear heard, neither have entered into the heart of man, the things which God hath prepared for them that love him.” 1 Corinthians 2:9

“Joy and Peace in Believing”

“Now the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, that ye may abound in hope, through the power of the Holy Ghost.” Romans 15:13

PRAYER: Holy Father, I come to You afresh, right now, in the name of Your only begotten Son, Jesus Christ. Thank You Father for filling Your beloved saints in the earth with all joy and peace in believing. Please bless your saints with hope dear LORD as our lives are blessed to be laid down, crucified with Christ our LORD! In Jesus’ Name, amen.

The Return of Christ | Are you Born Again? -Make Peace with God now, before it’s too late

The Greatest Servant [podcast]

All true born again saints of Christ are mere servants of HIS, not celebrities who tout titles to elevate self, something Christ forbids (Matthew 20:20-28; 23:8-12). The LORD Himself is the Greatest Servant (Philippians 2). “Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends.” John 15:13 He served us, sinners, while we were yet separated from Him in sin. Then, after finding and saving us He requires that we show mercy to all others just as He showed such immense mercy to us by coming to die on the cross to forgive our […]

Judgment is Coming on the Whole Earth [podcast]

DIVINE JUDGMENT IS NOT GOING AWAY JUST BECAUSE YOU OR SOME FAKE PREACHER IGNORES IT!!! Jesus Christ is Creator and LORD. He’s Large and in Charge “The earth is the LORD’S, and the fulness thereof; the world, and they that dwell therein.” Psalms 24:1 The LORD owns this house, this earth and is returning to take His rightful authority over it. Nothing can stop it! Anyone who isn’t in agreement with and in obedience to the Son of God will be crushed by Him – crushed under the power and weight of His holy justice. “Serve the LORD with fear, and […]

Knowing Your Enemy [podcast]

“Satan, which deceiveth the whole world.” Revelation 12:9 Jesus Christ is the “Almighty” God of all that is, the “Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the ending.” “I am Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the ending, saith the Lord, which is, and which was, and which is to come, the Almighty.” Revelation 1:8 Everything begins and ends with God. He’s never lost – and never will. Even His crucifixion was a win. In fact, Satan regretted doing this because it was the greatest win in history – because He was then buried and raised again from the dead (1 Corinthians […]

Abiding

How Christ’s Kingdom Evangelism Works [podcast]

**“So shall my word be that goeth forth out of my mouth: it shall not return unto me void, but it shall accomplish that which I please, and it shall prosper in the thing whereto I sent it.”** Isaiah 55:11

“The Word of God, like rain and snow that water the earth and cause it to produce fruit, will be sown in the hearts of men and produce fruit in the moral world (Isa_55:11; Deu_32:2). As the rain and snow fall on various kinds of ground, so does the Word of God (Mat_13:3-8, Mat_13:20-23). Like rain and snow, it will accomplish its best good in the eternal reign of the Messiah, when the knowledge of the Lord will cover the earth (Isa_11:9). Thus, the final fulfillment of this scripture will be in the future; there is only a partial fulfillment at present in the preaching of the gospel.” Dake

“God’s word is just as irresistible and effective as the rain and snow. All the armies in the world cannot stop them, and they accomplish their intended purpose. God’s Word never fails to achieve its aims.” Believer’s Bible Commentary

“Being born again, not of corruptible seed, but of incorruptible, by the word of God, which liveth and abideth for ever.” 1 Peter 1:23

ANY person who doesn’t understand the power of God’s Word, when sown into the hearts of men, has no business pretending to be a pastor or elder in Christ’s body.

“For the word of God is quick, and powerful, and sharper than any twoedged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart.” Hebrews 4:12

The power of God’s Word when it enters the human heart:

“He that hath my word, let him speak my word faithfully. What is the chaff to the wheat? saith the LORD. 29 Is not my word like as a fire? saith the LORD; and like a hammer that breaketh the rock in pieces?” Jeremiah 23:28-29

The Harvest is Plentiful – So many lost souls hungry to hear the Gospel – 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

Sin separates men from God.

“But your iniquities have separated between you and your God, and your sins have hid his face from you, that he will not hear.” Isaiah 59:2

People are born again by the WORD of God which means the Word must be sown in their hearts and germinate.

“I have planted, Apollos watered; but God gave the increase. 7 So then neither is he that planteth any thing, neither he that watereth; but God that giveth the increase. 8 Now he that planteth and he that watereth are one: and every man shall receive his own reward according to his own labour. 9 For we are labourers together with God: ye are God’s husbandry, ye are God’s building.” 1 Corinthians 3:6-9

Faithfully sowing the seed of the Word of God in the hearts of men assures that God will be glorified in saving each of those souls who receive and believe His truth in repentance and faith.

Here’s how evangelism and our LORD’s kingdom work works—layers of Gospel workers. Usually we are the second, third, etc., Gospel labourer, following up on the seed planted in the hearts of the people we minister to. Let’s gain this vision, this illustration from Christ concerning our work for Him, in His kingdom.

Anyone putting off, pushing into the future, evangelizing the lost, is disobeying Jesus Christ. Anyone not evangelizing the lost around them cannot rightly claim to love Jesus. They are full of self and in need of crying out to God in repentance.

John 4:34 – 38

“Jesus saith unto them, My meat is to do the will of him that sent me, and to finish his work.

35 Say not ye, There are yet four months, and then cometh harvest? behold, I say unto you, Lift up your eyes, and look on the fields; for they are white already to harvest.

36 And he that reapeth receiveth wages, and gathereth fruit unto life eternal: that both he that soweth and he that reapeth may rejoice together.

37 And herein is that saying true, One soweth, and another reapeth.

38 I sent you to reap that whereon ye bestowed no labour: other men laboured, and ye are entered into their labours.”

“In the elderly home we minister in, we met a new resident, that had been there only a few months. When she came to our meeting, she seemed down, so I began to talk with her. She said, “well I don’t leave my room much anymore as my very good friend just passed away.” She stated her name and said, “before she passed I gave her the gospel and she received Jesus.” God is so good, as we had ministered to her friend as well, and seeds were planted, and this new Lady watered! The more I continued to talk with her, I learned she has been preaching the gospel and some residents are getting saved. Alleluia! Next week, we will give her some Jesus tracts.” Karen Cochran

Picture planting a seed in a garden, then standing back and watching the ground you planted that seed in and expecting to see it sprout up visibly from the soil it was planted in. Not wise, right? Right.

The picture our LORD gives here is planting that seed and then moving on, just like anyone who plants seeds to grow some plant, crop.

The Parable of the Seed Growing

Mark 4

26 And he said, So is the kingdom of God, as if a man should cast seed into the ground;

27 And should sleep, and rise night and day, and the seed should spring and grow up, he knoweth not how.

28 For the earth bringeth forth fruit of herself; first the blade, then the ear, after that the full corn in the ear.

29 But when the fruit is brought forth, immediately he putteth in the sickle, because the harvest is come.” Mark 4:26-29

“And should sleep and rise night and day – That is, he should sleep by night, and rise by day; for so the words are obviously to be understood. He knoweth not how – How a plant grows is a mystery in nature, which the wisest philosopher in the universe cannot fully explain.” Adam Clarke

In ministry, it’s always seeding, planting. It’s GOD, not us, who brings the increase. This pertains to the invisible work of God in the hearts of men.

“The parable may be intended to encourage the disciples. Their responsibility is to sow the seed. They may sleep by night and rise by day, knowing that God’s Word will not return to Him void, but will accomplish what He has intended it to do. By a mysterious and miraculous process, quite apart from man’s strength and skill, the Word works in human hearts, producing fruit for God. Man plants and waters but God gives the increase.” Believer’s Bible Commentary

“The law of the LORD is perfect, converting the soul: the testimony of the LORD is sure, making wise the simple.” Psalms 19:7

“Ye have not chosen me, but I have chosen you, and ordained you, that ye should go and bring forth fruit, and that your fruit should remain: that whatsoever ye shall ask of the Father in my name, he may give it you.” John 15:16

YOUR PRAYER: Holy Father, please break me. Unite my heart to fear Your name. Thank You for choosing and ordaining me to Your kingdom work. Please bear Your fruit in and through this life, this vessel for Your eternal glory. Let that fruit remain dear LORD. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

The Harvest is Coming for all those Sowing the Seed of the Word [podcast]

The Joy and Expectation of Seed Sowing What we sow, we can expect to reap (Galatians 6:7-8). As we continue to sow the good, the incorruptible seed of God’s Word into the hearts of men, good news will continue to flow, will continue to be reaped – because God’s Word prospers in the thing where He sends it! See also 1 Peter 1:23. “So shall my word be that goeth forth out of my mouth: it shall not return unto me void, but it shall accomplish that which I please, and it shall prosper in the thing whereto I sent it.” […]

The Joy of Seed Sowing

“While the earth remaineth, seedtime and harvest, and cold and heat, and summer and winter, and day and night shall not cease.” Genesis 8:22 Always remember, there must be a seed sown before there can be a crop reaped. BEFORE Jesus saved me, He had several of His people along the way drop His precious Word into my sin-darkened, alienated heart. Read Ephesians 2. Wow. “Having the understanding darkened, being alienated from the life of God through the ignorance that is in them, because of the blindness of their heart:” Ephesians 4:18 Some of this Gospel action from God’s people toward […]

Bearing the Precious Seed of God's Word [podcast]

“They that sow in tears shall reap in joy. 6 He that goeth forth and weepeth, bearing precious seed, shall doubtless come again with rejoicing, bringing his sheaves (harvest) with him.” Psalms 126:5-6 A harvest of blessed souls is going to be the result, the ministry produce, the fruit of all who bear and distribute, scatter the seed of the incorruptible Word of God into the hearts of men (1 Peter 1:23). The LORD didn’t say “go explain who I am to other people.” No, He said “preach the word” and “preach the gospel” (2 Timothy 4:2; Mark 16:15). Our cute […]

The Seed of Salvation [podcast]

“So shall my word be that goeth forth out of my mouth: it shall not return unto me void, but it shall accomplish that which I please, and it shall prosper in the thing whereto I sent it.” Isaiah 55:11 When we follow Jesus He makes us fishers of men: “And Jesus said unto them, Come ye after me, and I will make you to become fishers of men. 18 And straightway they forsook their nets, and followed him.” (Mark 1:17-18) We must forsake the nets, the world’s ways in following Him. Prayer: Father, in the name of Jesus, please use […]

Abiding

Jesus Washes the Feet of His Own [podcast]

What was Jesus demonstrating and teaching us when He washed the feet of His disciples?

The Washed Way – begins with “the washing of regeneration and renewing of the Holy Ghost” – being born again (Titus 3:5-7; John 3:3, 7).

“On the way back from the public bath, a person’s feet would get dirty again. He didn’t need another bath but did need to have his feet washed. ‘He who is bathed needs only to wash his feet, but is completely clean.’ There is a difference between the bath and the basin. The bath speaks of the cleansing received at the time of one’s salvation. Cleansing from the penalty of sin through the blood of Christ takes place only once. The basin speaks of cleansing from the pollution of sin and must take place continually through the Word of God. There is one bath but many foot-washings.” Believer’s Bible Commentary

“If these last words of our Lord had any spiritual reference, it is not easy to say what it was. A common opinion is the following: He who is washed – who is justified through the blood of the Lamb, needeth only to wash his feet – to regulate all his affections and desires; and to get, by faith, his conscience cleansed from any fresh guilt, which he may have contracted since his justification.” Adam Clarke

Jesus Washes the Disciples’ Feet

“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.
2 And supper being ended, the devil having now put into the heart of Judas Iscariot, Simon’s son, to betray him;
3 Jesus knowing that the Father had given all things into his hands, and that he was come from God, and went to God;
4 He riseth from supper, and laid aside his garments; and took a towel, and girded himself.
5 After that he poureth water into a bason, and began to wash the disciples’ feet, and to wipe them with the towel wherewith he was girded.
6 Then cometh he to Simon Peter: and Peter saith unto him, Lord, dost thou wash my feet?
7 Jesus answered and said unto him, What I do thou knowest not now; but thou shalt know hereafter.
8 Peter saith unto him, Thou shalt never wash my feet. Jesus answered him, If I wash thee not, thou hast no part with me.
9 Simon Peter saith unto him, Lord, not my feet only, but also my hands and my head.
10 Jesus saith to him, He that is washed needeth not save to wash his feet, but is clean every whit: and ye are clean, but not all.
11 For he knew who should betray him; therefore said he, Ye are not all clean.
12 So after he had washed their feet, and had taken his garments, and was set down again, he said unto them, Know ye what I have done to you?
13 Ye call me Master and Lord: and ye say well; for so I am.
14 If I then, your Lord and Master, have washed your feet; ye also ought to wash one another’s feet.
15 For I have given you an example, that ye should do as I have done to you.
16 Verily, verily, I say unto you, The servant is not greater than his lord; neither he that is sent greater than he that sent him.
17 If ye know these things, happy are ye if ye do them. – John 13:1-17

Those not happy prove they are not humble nor holy (John 13).

“If loving the person in front of you seems like too small of a ministry opportunity, you’ve forgotten the simplicity of the Gospel.” unknown

Jesus Washes the Disciples’ Feet as an Act of Final Sealing of His Mercy, His Will

“Before the feast – Namely, on Wednesday, in the paschal week. Having loved his own – His apostles, he loved them to the end – Of his life.” John Wesley

Adam Clarke writes:

“He loved them unto the end – Continued his fervent affection towards them to his latest breath, and gave them that convincing proof of it which is mentioned Joh_13:5. That the disciples alone are meant here every man must see.”

Of these cornerstone verses of John 13, F.B. Meyer writes:

“John 13:1-11

JESUS GLORIFIES HUMBLE SERVICE

In the Temple the laver preceded the brazen altar. It was kept filled with pure water for the constant washing of the priests; Exo_30:18-21; Lev_16:4. We cannot have fellowship with Christ at Calvary or on Olivet unless we draw near with our hearts sprinkled from an evil conscience and our bodies washed with pure water.

The Synoptic Gospels tell us that on their way to the feast the disciples had yielded to contention and pride. It was needful that these should be put away, and our Lord’s love was equal to the occasion. He loved them to the end of His life and to the end of love. Only such love could have made saints and apostles out of such material.

Jesus began a work which has never ceased, and which will continue “till all the ransomed Church of God be saved to sin no more.” When we have contracted guilt, we have not to begin our whole life over again, but to go back to the place where we dropped the thread of obedience and begin there.”

May we never forget how merciful our LORD Jesus was to the woman at the well (John 4), the woman caught in the act of adultery (John 8), and the woman with the issue of blood (Luke 8).

It’s of interest to note how this 13th chapter of the glorious Gospel of John begins with Christ’s love to His disciples and closes with His command for them to “love one another” as He taught and personally demonstrated to them:

“A new commandment I give unto you, That ye love one another; as I have loved you, that ye also love one another. 35 By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to another.” John 13:34-35

“When you fall in love don’t you want to shout it from the rooftops? He, the man you are in love with, is all you talk about! Should be the same with Jesus! You want to tell everyone about this man, the Savior who saved your life! Just as the woman at the well did! She told the whole city. ‘Come, and see a man, which told me all the things that ever I did: is this not the Christ?’ John 4: 28-29.” Karen Cochran

YOUR PRAYER: Father, in Jesus’ name, please reduce me to love.

First Love Disciples [podcast]

TODAY, if you are not living to worship, love, and serve the LORD Jesus, you are building the house, the house of your life, on sinking sand (Matthew 7:19-29; Luke 6:46-49). You will have all eternity to gnash your teeth in utter remorse if you do not choose to cry out to the LORD is utter repentance. You may wish to begin this moment with a sincere, simple prayer, such as: LORD, please grant my heart Your gift of true repentance, in Jesus’ name. Amen. If you are called out by Him, His elect, your highest priority is Christ. He […]

How to Make Sure You are One of Christ's Remant Disciples [podcast]

“Abide” “When I thought on the error of my ways, and then submitted my whole self to the righteousness of God revealed in Christ. (the call to abide: John 15:1-16) Then, my heart cried out to the God of my salvation, and his peace quieted all my fears. -Lam. 3:19-26 God is plenteous in mercy and willing to forgive, (He chose us) but we must (be willing to reciprocate that love) by choosing to walk in His ways (daily cross) to truly know Him and have Him and be His child. (John 17:3) “Thou wilt keep him in perfect […]

Be Ye Kind One to Another, Tenderhearted, Forgiving One Another [podcast]

“We pray earnestly, O God, that we may not be found among those with hardened hearts, no longer able to hear Thy voice.” AW Tozer We must have mercy on others as we ourselves are utterly in need of divine mercy. Truth: Any person who dies in the sin of un-forgiveness will burn in hell irrevocably, eternally (Matthew 18:21-35; Mark 9:43-49; 11:25-26; James 2:13). Memorize Ephesians 4:32 today. KJB. Leveling with God…. Dear heavenly Father, I come to You in the name of Jesus Christ, and ask You to wash afresh the most unworthy person alive on the earth, […]