I.G.nite: Ira & Geral's Quotes

1. Spiritually led, not physically eyed.

2. Thanking God and thinking of God.

3. When you foretell, you should forth tell.

4. If you wanna change your life, get it altered at the altar.

5. If God wills, you will.

6. Its not gone, it lives on.

7. Your hardest times are when you shine.

8. Change your method, but don't change the message.

9. What is it a man to know God and not live in Him?

10. There's a peaceful essence about God's presence.

11. She's the building and He's the Builder.

12. Don't desecrate the dwelling place.

13. Influence is power but rank is authority; thus, we worship God.

14. Risks aren't bad, but playing with the faith does collateral damage.

15. Girding my loins for church.

16. Allow your inwards out to supercede your outward.

17. A good friend is one that doesn't allow disconnection.

18. The universe declares it, but I KNOW IT!

19. A day that starts and ends with the Lord is a good day.

20. Once your eyes drift, you lose your aim.

21. It isn't a matter of life & death, it's a matter of life in Him.

22. When my hands are empty, my head is full.

23. STOP being a weesle and RISE above the storm clouds like an eagle.

24. Out the window and gone with the wind...

25. Apple is creating an iNation. (exclusively iRa)

26. I live in the FIRE, preaching to INSPIRE you to ASPIRE after the Consuming Fire. (exclusively geral)

27. Take heed to the voice of the Lord!

28. No matter what is REnounced against me, I will continue to PROnounce the Truth. (iRa exclusive)
 
 
                                  to be continued...

The Crack of Dawn

Genesis 32:29-31
Then Jacob asked, saying, “Tell me Your name, I pray.”

And He said, “Why is it that you ask about My name?” And He blessed him there.
So Jacob called the name of the place Peniel: “For I have seen God face to face, and my life is preserved.” Just as he crossed over Penuel the sun rose on him, and he limped on his hip.

Just to note, Jacob was in the struggle of his life. He got into a wrestling match with something that he couldn't quite understand. The Angel of the Lord had came to him right before dawn with a new name for Jacob.

Now, your name is Israel for you have struggled with God and with men and have prevailed. But, just to know about God's superiority, He left Israel with a limp in his walk. But, one thing that is certain, Jacob struggled.

All things that you struggle against has a significance. Jacob sought out the Angel's significance. He asked for the name. Just gimme Your name please. But, the Angel wasn't even budging. In other words, He expressed who He was. Simply, He touched Jacob's hip and he now had a limp. He walked different.

Here's a revelation:

Whatever you're struggling with, recognize it. There's something about the setting of your struggle. It's about to stop because of the crack of dawn.

A sign that God always shows me in the sky is how the sun breaks forth and shines regardless of the weather. The sun's penetration through the clouds is very much vivid. After the storm, you can see the sun's rays penetrating through the gray clouds. God's luminaries do exactly what He commands.

Furthermore, God's light shines even in the dark places. Take a glimpse on the horizon, there's the crack of dawn. You don't have to be afraid of your current situation, the sun's about to shine. God's light will shine when all else fades.

At the crack of dawn, your revelation comes. You may have your limp, but His light is your joy and you've been drawn closer to His light when you've gotten through your current situation. This isn't just a message of hope, its a message of rejoicing and confirmation.

"Rejoice not against me O my enemy; when I fall, I shall arise and when I sit in darkness, the Lord will be a light unto me!"

THIS Earth and THAT Earth

2 Peter 3:5-9

For this they willfully forget: that by the word of God the heavens were of old, and the earth standing out of water and in the water, by which the world that then existed perished, being flooded with water. But the heavens and the earth which are now preserved by the same word, are reserved for fire until the day of judgment and perdition of ungodly men.

But, beloved, do not forget this one thing, that with the Lord one day is as a thousand years, and a thousand years as one day. The Lord is not slack concerning His promise, as some count slackness, but is longsuffering toward us, not willing that any should perish but that all should come to repentance.


"Where is your God? Where is He? I'm not believing that. That's ridiculous and dumb to believe in something you can't see. I don't see any point in 'wasting' your life being 'good' and missing out on all the 'fun'. I don't know about you, but I'm gonna run around and do whatever I want. I don't believe it so it won't bother me. You said your 'God' was supposed to be coming back and it's been 2000 years now. Where is He?"
                                                                                                       -Says the world.

But, beware.
It  was the exact same mentality six chapters into Genesis. "Noah, you're so retarded! Flood? What is that? Water covering the earth? Makes absolutely no sense. Noah, you're a fool!"

So, everyone just did what pleased them. All went about their own business... just living as usual.

God knows the exact day and hour of His coming. But, times are not for us to know. God has everything going according to plan. Do not be deceived, He's not late, He knows.

But, the greatest blessing a believer can give to this world is to look up. Each and every day, look up to the sky!

The earth before the flood is gone. That was THAT earth.
Now, THIS earth is reserved for flaming fire. Be cautious!

It's soon. But, the more the believer looks up to the sky, the better it is that God's plan comes to pass. It is not His will that anyone should perish. THIS lost and dying world can be saved, that is, the people. But, this earth is going to be utterly shaken by the hand of God.

Behold, He is coming like a thief in the night. He's gonna make no greeting. He's gonna break in when you least expect it because a thief is smart. Doesn't mean that God is a thief, but His coming is LIKE a thief in the night. When everyone's sleeping, He's gonna break in without permission and take what He believes is rightfully His. But, He will not make an escape though. He will wake up the sleepers and destroy them and their house; THIS earth.

God has really been taking so much time to raise the awareness of THIS world. Destruction is coming quickly. Although God has great wrath, the greatest most overtaking trait of God is LOVE.

The Lord is not slack concerning His promise, as some count slackness, but is longsuffering toward us, not willing that any should perish but that all should come to repentance.

He IS the God that is willing for you to make an escape from His great wrath.

Why wait?

Beyond Demonstration, Unto Revelation!

Genesis 1:1-2
"In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth. The earth was..."

I speak to all ignorance of understanding.

God is not contained in the universe, it's the other way around. What caused time was the constellations. But, they will all stop in time. But, God is infinite and He created the constellations. Thus, eternity is just life without constellations. Also, that's what makes the things of God everlasting, if they came from God, they share His nature of being without limitation. His Words are foreverr!! The earth will pass away. The constellations will pass away. But if you're a born again believer in Jesus, "He will not leave your soul in hell..."

We, in our feeble human minds, try to figure out things which are greater than ourselves. We try to "reason" about God's awareness and His existence. Let me tell you something, "He's a very PRESENT help in time of trouble!"

Man's wisdom is foolishness to God and vice versa because a mind that is limited can not understand a God that is limitless.

Therefore, God warns of idolatry and false gods in His perfect Law because they are based on man's understanding. But, faith in the One true God is not according to human effort, but God's reality.

But, God condescended and took on the form of something that was inferior to His supremecy. He took upon flesh! The One without years limited Himself in order to free those others from their limits.

I believe all things are possible through Christ which strengthens me. I can do anything. Why? Because Jesus strengthens me!

What happened when the Limitless limited Himself is that He came with a set goal to take off the limit of you and me.

Pure faith destroy's limits because God will freely move beyond your mind's capacity.

Therefore, the called and chosen, are on a mission to the Land of Promise where there is no Constellations. God, in His wisdom and understanding, takes away the greatest limit to humanity and to this world.

TIME.

In heaven, there's no sun, nor is there any moons. But, the Lamb is its Light.
Only Day, and never night!
Finally, the salvation plan will be revealed.

It was to get you to where God is. He is the great I AM! NO boundary of time can engulf Him, for only He created it.

He is always ON time because time is subject to Him primarily.

Furthermore, know and understand. "In the beginning..." refers God's creation to man's comprehension. "The earth was..." shows that it had a beginning. Also, it was created by the One who has NO beginning.

The earth WAS and IS but IS NOT to come.
But, GOD WAS and IS and IS TO COME, therefore, although God created everything, everything falls short of His glory.

To all earth lovers and tree huggers, you've set your minds on vanity.

So, to us, He is what He is; Limitless in every aspect.

Retribution Without Restitution

Jude 5-11

"But I want to remind you, though you once knew this, that the Lord, having saved the people out of the land of Egypt, afterward destroyed those who did not believe. And the angels who did not keep their proper domain, but left their own abode, He has reserved in everlasting chains under darkness for the judgment of the great day; as Sodom and Gomorrah, and the cities around them in a similar manner to these, having given themselves over to sexual immorality and gone after strange flesh, are set forth as an example, suffering the vengeance of eternal fire. Likewise also these dreamers defile the flesh, reject authority, and speak evil of dignitaries. Yet Michael the archangel, in contending with the devil, when he disputed about the body of Moses, dared not bring against him a reviling accusation, but said, “The Lord rebuke you!” But these speak evil of whatever they do not know; and whatever they know naturally, like brute beasts, in these things they corrupt themselves. Woe to them! For they have gone in the way of Cain, have run greedily in the error of Balaam for profit, and perished in the rebellion of Korah."

Blessed. You are blessed if you are a child of God living in a wicked world. Israel was in bondage in Egypt, but God in His goodness, rescued them from the hands of the Egyptians. He parted the Red Sea and drowned their enemies. But, something is rather strange, Pharaoh did not drown but his soldiers did. Those who followed him drowned, but not him.

Thus, it is risen of the stupidity of following. Angels, who were once ministers to the Almighty God, have done strange and stupid things. In Revelation 12, it is written that Satan brought with himself 1/3 of the hosts of heaven as followers. "His tail drew a third of the stars of heaven." But, one must note that these are the angels spoken of by Jude. They are reserved in chains and they have reserved seats in the lake of fire. But, these are very special angels in a very dumb way. Satan was first to rebel. He was the leader of the flock. But, he is flying around in the air, while the angels that followed are bound in chains and fetters.

In general, all are reserved for the same place including the devil. But, he's loose somehow while the others are in bondage. They've already been destroyed and are waiting for more destruction. What foolishness?

They've been prepared for retribution without restitution. Therefore, one must know that what's even worse than leading a rebellion against God is following a rebellion against God.

God always gets the final Word.
He who sits in the heavens shall laugh; the Lord shall hold them in derision.

Woe unto them who follow those who rebel against God!

"Kiss the Son, lest He be angry, And you perish in the way, When His wrath is kindled but a little. Blessed are all those who put their trust in Him." Psalm 2:12

ACCESS GRANTED

Hebrews 11:9-10, 16

"By faith he dwelt in the land of promise as in a foreign country, dwelling in tents with Isaac and Jacob, the heirs with him of the same promise; for he waited for the city which has foundations, whose builder and maker is God."

"But now they desire a better, that is, a heavenly country. Therefore God is not ashamed to be called their God, for He has prepared a city for them."

The PPG Building of Pittsburgh, I must say, is a beautiful building. Early in the morning, I gaze at this building and I am always tempted to take a photo. It is quite a unique building and it stands out from every other building in the city. But, one thing is certain, its builder is man. We may gaze at the creation of man, but it doesn't amount to the creation of God.

Abraham dwelt in a land by faith in God. God prepared the land and would soon give it to the descendants of Abraham. But, although the land was a creation of God, there was a lack.

God's people of old and their faith in Him required more than an earthly city. The earthly city had earthly things. But, what they desired of God was godly things. They weren't looking for an earthly well, but their faith dug for a far greater well, living water. They sought after Light and Life, the Spiritual and not the physical.

But, right here on earth, they had access to the earthly state. Althoughthey had great faith, they did not obtain. But, in order to see and comprehend, one must be born of the water and of the Spirit. Now, that the Lord has paid the price, this Spiritual and Actual city is at hand.

It's Builder is God, it consists of 12 foundations and 12 gates.

"The construction of its wall was of jasper; and the city was pure gold, like clear glass. The first foundation was jasper, the second sapphire, the third chalcedony, the fourth emerald, the fifth sardonyx, the sixth sardius, the seventh chrysolite, the eighth beryl, the ninth topaz, the tenth chrysoprase, the eleventh jacinth, and the twelfth amethyst. The twelve gates were twelve pearls: each individual gate was of one pearl. And the street of the city was pure gold, like transparent glass."

The Lord promises all of those who are born again to inherit this city that He Himself has prepared. This city is beyond the buildings of man in both beauty and splendor. This heavenly city is greatly adorned.

Although those of faith in the times of old did not obtain it, God has made it available for this generation. This is where there isn't any fault, no tears, no pain, no sorrow, no hurt, no sickness, no death, no sin, and no sinners for God has atoned for the born again believers.

Here's the message:

God has priveleged us to obtain this City. He has granted access to this marvelous wonder. It is your permanent residence if you are born of the water and of the Spirit. How? Repentance, water baptism in Jesus' name, and the gift of the Indwelling Spirit of God.(Acts 2:38)

One must be sealed with His name and called by Him out of this realm into the next.

911 "Alert!"

ZECHARIAH 9:11

"As for you also, because of the blood of your covenant, I will set your prisoners free from the waterless pit."


We are the most advanced creation of God. We have been known among all to conquer wherever we stand.

We have expanded in knowledge and has also created gadgets in all its existence. We the people are the lawful heads of the earth. We were created by God with authority over all created things on earth. Created in the image of God, we conquer all realms of knowledge on this earth.

But, one thing that is unconquerable is the realm of the Spirit. The only One to ever fulfill this task is the Holy One, namely, Jesus.In this, we have one thing that is at hand that some of us have not yet attained. The Lord declared that He would set His people free. What aren't we getting?

The bird is known to be a creature that has excelled and have knowledge of the heavens. But, everything goes wrong with both bird and man, FLYING AWAY!When a bird has been captured by a snare into a cage, it will fight for its life to escape. And with lost hope of exit, the bird quits trying to get out. Then, all of a sudden, the cage door is open, but the bird doesn't budge.

We, like the birds, have the same problem. Adam, caught by a snare of the adversary, locked himself in a cage and handed the key over to Satan. This cage he was in is called sin. Man, over the past generations of old, have tried to break free, but all failed. Man could not save themselves any longer. Living from failure to failure was the way of man.

Then, all of a sudden, Light stepped into darkness! The darkness didn't comprehend the Light. But, nevertheless, the Light shined in the darkness.Here comes One who is able to do exceedingly and abundantly. He came and took the key from the devil. And now, the door stands open before us.

If the bird gives one last try, success is a guarantee.But, if the bird can, so can you.

This is the alert: Call on the Lord and He will light the path to the gateway that leads to life.

We write S.O.S. in the sand as a plea for help.Turn the Book to Zechariah 9-1-1 and prepare for flight.

O, little sparrow, FLY AWAY!

"Prove Me", Sayeth the Lord

Genesis 22:11-12

But the Angel of the LORD called to him from heaven and said, “Abraham, Abraham!” So he said, “Here I am.” And He said, “Do not lay your hand on the lad, or do anything to him; for now I know that you fear God, since you have not withheld your son, your only son, from Me.”

Once, just days after the ressurection of our Lord Jesus Christ, He posed one of the most troubling questions to one of His disciples. On that morning by the sea, right after breakfast, He posed the agonizing question.

Jesus: "Peter, do you love Me more than these?"
Peter: "Yes Lord, You know that I love You."
Jesus: "Feed My lambs."

Moments later, the Lord spoke again.

Jesus: "Peter, do you love Me?"
Peter: "Yes Lord, You know that I love You."
Jesus: "Tend My sheep."

By this point, thoughts of the past couple of nights must have been running through the mind of Peter. And yet, moments later, Jesus questions him once more.

Jesus: "Do you love Me?"
Peter: "Lord, You know all things. You know that I love You."
Jesus: "Feed My sheep."

The true meaning behind Peter's restoration, is the fact that he repented three times. Previously, Peter had denied Jesus three times. Now, the Lord had one objective for Pete's sake, to heal His boy from his failure.

Deeper into the topic, what Jesus was getting out of Peter was this:
"Pete, if you love Me, then prove Me. Tell Me Pete, what will you do for Me? You know, I am a Jealous God."

The love that God desires from us isn't just mere words. Jesus once said, "Greater love has no one than this, that he would lay down his life for his friends." He also said, "I call you friends."

Jesus demonstrated the love of God on the agonizing cross. He not only laid down His life, but He regained it in triumphing over all that was against us. He also laid down His life for those in opposition. Shere love and determination has none than this I tell you.

But, we know that God loves us. But, do we really and truly love Him? John said that we love Him because He first loved us. But, really?

The question that Jesus poses every believer is the same question that He posed Peter: "Do you love Me?"

And, if you do love Him, how much do you love Him?

And, to prove this fact, one thing is certain about God, He is the same yesterday, today, and forever!

What would you trade for Jesus? What would you sacrifice? Just how much do you love this One called Jesus?

He's not interested in lip service. His interest is in the hearts of His people.

Abraham was confronted with one of the biggest tests of his life in the text. The Lord impressed it upon him to prepare his only and promised son as a burnt offering unto the Lord.

Out of Abraham's love for God and obedience, he agreed on the task. Now, Abraham was a man that feared God. But, it is written, he did not complain and didn't use any "but's" or "why's", he simply obeyed the voice of God.

There are times in your life where God is really going to try and test you just to see how much you love Him.

God, wanted Abraham to sacrifice his most prized and loved possession. But, one thing is certain, Abraham's love for Isaac did not surpass his love for God.

So, God allowed him to go as far as he possibly could, then He called out to him and stopped him.
In other words, God said unto Abraham, "Well done My good and faithful servant. You have proved Me."

Therefore, when God asks you to do something that seems to be very awkward, just obey the voice of God, because this is what He is saying:

"You love Me, right? Prove Me."

Go Up to the Mountain

Exodus 34:1-3

"And the LORD said to Moses, “Cut two tablets of stone like the first ones, and I will write on these tablets the words that were on the first tablets which you broke. So be ready in the morning, and come up in the morning to Mount Sinai, and present yourself to Me there on the top of the mountain. And no man shall come up with you, and let no man be seen throughout all the mountain; let neither flocks nor herds feed before that mountain.”

This is the peak of everyone’s walk with God. Absolutely the climax!

Moses’ anger was kindled against the people and in his anger; he broke the first tablets of the covenant. But, the Lord didn’t appreciate what Moses did neither what the people did.

“The people sat down to eat and drink, and rose up to play.”

But, despite what happened, the Lord told Moses, “Go up to the mountain.”

Now, if you were to look through the eyes of Moses, you’d probably justify his actions. He probably felt like the only one that remained faithful to the Lord after what he saw the people doing. Maybe, he was even feeling discouraged with this ‘leading’ thing. But, whatever was going on with him, God knew.

But, Moses kept his daily devotion to God and constantly pleaded with the Lord. But, all of this was until Moses asked the unthinkable! “Show me Your glory.” (Exodus 33:18)

But, one thing that isn’t written in the Bible that I’m sure of is that God had it planned all along! God, in His wisdom and understanding, knows what His servants need. He knows just what to do to encourage His servant, Moses.

Whenever you’re feeling down, “Go to the mountain!”

God made sure Moses was alone. No one was to be seen in the entire mountain. It was just God and Moses.

What I speak of is what Jesus told His disciples, “But you, when you pray, go into your room, and when you have shut your door, pray to your Father who is in the secret place.” (Matthew 6:6)

God declared that He would fix Moses’ mistake and give him what he asked. But, God made sure
the deal was set fair.

In other words, God said: “I’ll do My part, but you’ll have to do your part if you want this to work Moses. Make new tablets and go up to the mountain.”

God told Moses to fix his wrong and He’d show him something that he’d never seen!

The peak in your walk is when God calls you up. But, first, you have to fix your wrong. Jesus also said: “Therefore if you bring your gift to the altar, and there remember that your brother has something against you, leave your gift there before the altar, and go your way. First be reconciled to your brother, and then come and offer your gift.” (Matthew 5:23-24)

The principle is that you must be down in order to get up.

John was exiled on the Island of Patmos for his testimony of Jesus. He was all alone. Everyone was gone. His other apostle buddies had all suffered death. He was the only one left.

But, all of a sudden, he was in the Spirit!

The brightness of the Lord caused him to fall at His feet as though dead and the Lord lifted him up. During the first period, the Lord spoke of the 7 churches. Then, in chapter 4:1, he heard a voice saying, “Come up here!”

God lifts His people with a divine revelation of who He is. He does this to whom He wishes and whenever He wishes. But, it is always perfect timing!

Know this: You may feel alone, or maybe you even disobeyed God. Humble yourself in the sight of the Lord and He will lift you up!

This is what He wants you to know:
“The LORD, the LORD God, merciful and gracious, longsuffering, and abounding in goodness and truth, keeping mercy for thousands, forgiving iniquity and transgression and sin, by no means clearing the guilty, visiting the iniquity of the fathers upon the children and the children’s children to the third and the fourth generation.” Exodus 34:6-7

The Chemical's Reaction

Luke 21:17

"And you will be hated by all for My name’s sake."

JESUS knew the power associated in His name! No matter what emotion its spoken in, you can feel the power and peace in the atmosphere.

But, Jesus drew the line. He told His disciples that they would be hated for the sake of His name.

Our personal "holiness" doesn't draw the line. Though, folks may gaze, but they won't hate you. But, its His holiness that draws the line. Our "faithfulness" doesn't draw the line, but His does.

What draws the line between Christians and the world is the NAME! What draws the line in the church is the NAME!

The REACTION in the CHEMICAL comes from the NAME that was mixed in.

That name is JESUS!

Salvation is in His name.
"Nor is there salvation in any other, for there is no other name under heaven given among men by which we must be saved." ACTS 4:12

Healing is in His name, Deliverance is in His name, Insurance and Assurance is found in His name. Mark 16:17-18
What a mighty name!

But, this name causes hostility. People go crazy when the name is mentioned. This name is an exposer of true colors. When the name is spoken, He draws near and the principalities of evil flip out. They've tried to keep the name from being told, but they couldn't stop it!

The chemical of the spirit world suffers a major reaction when the name of JESUS is spoken! The name of JESUS is the potion to any disease or possession in any realm.

It's all in the name of JESUS! What a peculiar people we are to be called by the name?

God said that He would reveal His name to His people. The disciples understood who this JESUS was. Now, its time for a divine revelation:

JESUS said, "Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all things that I have commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age.” Amen.

The word 'name' is singular.

JESUS revealed to His disciples and all of His people the name of the Father.

I have come in My Father’s name, and you do not receive Me; if another comes in his own name, him you will receive. John 5:43

He also revealed the name of the Holy Spirit.

But the Helper, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in My name, He will teach you all things, and bring to your remembrance all things that I said to you. John 14:26

God's name isn't 'Father' nor is it 'Holy Spirit'. Those are mere titles. As a matter of fact, God is Father of all creation. God is a Spirit that is Holy. Therefore, what He sent His disciples to do was baptize in His name. The wonderful name, JESUS!

Then Peter said to them, “Repent, and let every one of you be baptized in the name of JESUS CHRIST for the remission of sins; and you shall receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. Acts 2:38

The disciples understood the Lord's command. They knew that there is wonder working power in the name of JESUS for it is the very name of God!

Therefore My people shall know My name; Therefore they shall know in that day That I am He who speaks: ‘ Behold, it is I.’ Isaiah 52:6

Therefore, we who are called by His name are the ones that were truly baptized in His name. We are hated for the sake of the name because they first hated Him.

So, in the midst of crises, I tell you:

Shout His name.
Whisper His name.
Proclaim His name.

And the very essence of His name causes the REACTION in the CHEMICAL!

Blessed be the name of the LORD JESUS CHRIST!

The Midnight Ride

Matthew 25:1-13

Then the kingdom of heaven shall be likened to ten virgins who took their lamps and went out to meet the bridegroom. Now five of them were wise, and five were foolish. Those who were foolish took their lamps and took no oil with them, but the wise took oil in their vessels with their lamps. But while the bridegroom was delayed, they all slumbered and slept. “And at midnight a cry was heard: ‘Behold, the bridegroom is coming; go out to meet him!’ Then all those virgins arose and trimmed their lamps. And the foolish said to the wise, ‘Give us some of your oil, for our lamps are going out.’ But the wise answered, saying, ‘No, lest there should not be enough for us and you; but go rather to those who sell, and buy for yourselves.’ And while they went to buy, the bridegroom came, and those who were ready went in with him to the wedding; and the door was shut. “Afterward the other virgins came also, saying, ‘Lord, Lord, open to us!’ But he answered and said, ‘Assuredly, I say to you, I do not know you.’ “Watch therefore, for you know neither the day nor the hour in which the Son of Man is coming.

When I read this parable, I am reminded of Paul Revere's Midnight Ride. Just as he had proclaimed that the British were coming, I declare to the Church of the Lord Jesus Christ that the Bridegroom is coming... and its soon!

Jesus likened the Kingdom of Heaven to a marriage. Now, one must understand that marriage in biblical times and marriage in our day and age were very different.

Therefore, let's take a trip back in time...

Marriage 2,000 years ago went as follows:

The bridegroom always took the initiative. (I must note, it should be the same in this day and age. The Bible clearly states that HE who finds a wife finds a good thing, not SHE!)

• But, here's what he does. He goes from his father's house to the bride's house. There, he pays a price for the bride in order to purchase her.
• Once the price is paid, the marriage covenant is established. They are now in covenant relation.
• From this time on, the bride is set apart for her husband.
• As a symbol of the movement of the relationship, the bridegroom and the bride drink from a cup of wine over which betrothal benediction had been pronounced.
• Then, the bridegroom leaves the bride's home and returns to his father's home. Therefore, the bride and the bridegroom remains separate for a period of 12 months.
• During this period of time, the bride's duty is to get ready for the married life.
• In the meantime, the bridegroom prepares a place in his father's house for his bride. And, at the end of the period, the bridegroom takes his bride to live with him.
• But, the bride doesn't know the exact time of his coming!
• The bridegroom's arrival is preceded by a shout. This shout is as a forewarn for preparedness.
• After the bride is received, a wedding feast is thrown at the father's house.
• Upon arrival, wedding guests had been assembled already. These guests escorted the bride and the bridegroom to the bridal chamber.(Note: the bride is veiled.)
• Then, the bride and the bridegroom enter into the bridal chamber alone and enter into physical union alone.
• Afterwards, the bridegroom anounces fulfillment to the other members of the wedding feast waiting outside the chamber. Then, the news is passed on to the guests.
• Upon receiving the good news, the guests feast and make merry for 7 days. During these 7 days, the bride remains hidden in the bridal chamber.
• At the completion of the 7 days, the bridegroom reveals his bride unveiled!

Now, here's revelation and understanding:

• God so loved the world! (John 3:16)
• Jesus came into the world as the only begotten of God. (John 3:16)
• Jesus paid the price for sin on the cross and made the purchase. (1 Corinthians 6:20)
• Also, with the price paid, He has possession of those in covenant relation with Him. (1 Corinthians 6:20)
• With this covenant, those in relation are set apart for Christ. (2 Corinthians 6:17) Also, what drew the separation of the children of Israel and the Egyptians was the water! Thus, what marks the covenant is baptism in Jesus' name. (Acts 2:38)
• As a symbol of the covenant, communion is taken which is also a picture of the last supper that Jesus shared with the disciples. This was done in remembrance of Him. (1 Corinthians 10:16; 11:23-25)
• Jesus was also received up in glory applying to His ascension to the throne. (Mark 16:19; John 20:17; Acts 1:9) This is what is interpreted as the Bride and Bridegroom being separate.
• The Church is to ready herself in this period of waiting. (Matthew 24:44; Luke 12:40)
• In the meantime, the Lord prepares a place for His covenant-relation people. Also, He will come back to receive them. (John 14:2-3)
• His coming is preceded with a shout! And with this shout, the Church is caught away. (1 Thessalonians 4:16-17)
• Then, upon the arrival to Heaven, the wedding guests who had already been assembled (which are the saints of the Old Testament according to the 24 elders in Rev. 4) escort Jesus and the Church to the "bridal chamber"(the judgment seat of Christ 2 Cor. 5:10) where her works are tried and tested. (1 Corinthians 3:11-15)
• Jesus anounces the fulfillment of the reward-giving to the other members (these "members" may be the angels, but this is uncertain) which pass down the news.
• Upon receiving the news, the saints of old feast and make merry. Also, the Church is hidden in the "bridal chamber" for 7 days. Here's understanding: the 7 days represent the 7 years of the Tribulation period. This period is the last week of Daniel's prophecy. (This period of time covers Revelation 6-20)
• Then, the Lord reveals His bride in her glory; unveiled. (Revelation 21:9-21)

Therefore, I tell you: "THE BRIDEGROOM IS COMING!"

Ready yourself for the coming of the Lord to snatch His bride. The major picture is that only 5 of the virgins were ready. The five that were not were left behind!

You cannot live off of mom or dad's anointing. You must have it for yourself before its too late! Ready yourself, THE BRIDEGROOM IS COMING!

Keep the words and sayings of Jesus, get Him for yourself. You must hurry: THE BRIDEGROOM IS COMING!

Oh, Church of the Lord Jesus Christ, hear the Word of the Lord!

“And behold, I am coming quickly, and My reward is with Me, to give to every one according to his work. I am the Alpha and the Omega, the Beginning and the End, the First and the Last.” - Revelation 22:12-13

It Doesn't Matter!

Exodus 3:14

And God said to Moses, “I AM WHO I AM.” And He said, “Thus you shall say to the children of Israel, ‘I AM has sent me to you.’”

Pie.
3.14 is pie.
Once, this "teacher" told me that the Bible has an error. In his so-called zeal, he showed me exactly where it was. It was somewhere in one of the books of Kings. What astonished me about this guy's discovery is that he was so zealous to show me. I thought in my head, what a pitiful guy. I had to laugh.

Now, what he showed me was a measurement that was calculated wrong, according to his "wisdom". In the Bible, it said that the circumference of the body of water was about 3 times as long as the diameter. Now, this teacher said it is 3.14! How rude?

My whole point in giving this brief story is to say this: the teacher gave me a peice of information that is totally irrelevant.

IT DOESN'T MATTER!

This is what God replied to Moses' complaining. And this is what God says to all of your complaining as well.

"Well, God, what am I to say that You are?"

Let's get a little deeper now. God wanted to use Moses for the freedom of His people. Moses thought way too much. But, Moses' problem was with the identity of this "God". But, God simply answered Moses, "I AM WHO I AM".

IT DOESN'T MATTER!

Basically, it doesn't matter what you want to call Him. Just know that He is what He is! He can do whatever He said He can do! He is GOD! That's all you need to know in doing what He tells you to do.

Many speak back irrelevant information to God. It doesn't matter what you CAN'T do, just know that HE CAN!

If you're up against the wall, don't worry. It doesn't matter what you want to call God whether good or bad. Just know that His name is JESUS! He'll reveal Himself to whatever you're up against in due time. He is who He is!

Jesus once had an educated discussion with uneducated Jews once. Its recorded in the Gospel of St. John 8:57-58.

Then the Jews said to Him, “You are not yet fifty years old, and have You seen Abraham?”

Jesus said to them, “Most assuredly, I say to you, before Abraham was, I AM.”

Basically, what He told them is don't worry about what you think. You speaked uneducatedly. Just know that He is what He is. He never lied.

Now, in english, God just wants you to know that IT DOESN'T MATTER what your logic or philosophy says. He is still God.

Whether you think it or not, He is still the Master of the Universe!

Whether you like it or not, Jesus is Lord!

Whether your "religion" says it or not, Jesus is Lord, and the Lord is God, and the Lord is One!

Get it in your head! It's not about what you think or what you like, its all about Him!

So, there's three words to take to heart whoever the reader(s) may be...:

IT DOESN'T MATTER!

God is simply telling you, "Just do whatever I tell you to do and I will see you through and give you the ability to do whatever I tell you to do. I AM WHO I AM."

Learning to Utilize

Mark 16:17-18

"And these signs will follow those who believe: In My name they will cast out demons; they will speak with new tongues; they will take up serpents; and if they drink anything deadly, it will by no means hurt them; they will lay hands on the sick, and they will recover."

Casting out demons, speaking in new tongues, taking up serpents (accidentally), drinking deadly things (accidental as well), and the laying on of hands to cure sickness. What a heritage?

These are certain verses that have been omitted in earlier manuscripts, yet they are accepted. Throughout the New Testament, these signs have been proven and are certainly truth.

These signs accompany believers.

What is a believer? A believer is one who can rightly call Jesus the ONLY true Savior. A believer is one that communes with the Almighty God in Christ Jesus our Lord. A believer is one that believes in the ONLY saving name, Jesus!

We have believers... but, where are the signs? I'm not sure that God left the signs back in the past. Surely, they're needed in this day and age.

But, upon studying this Scripture, something has become noticeable to me. "These signs follow those who BELIEVE!"

We have believers that access primarily one of these signs. This is the speaking of new tongues. But, this has somewhat become normal among our organization. We need to see the others.

Maybe we're thinking a little too hard. It is not rocket science. There is only two factors at work here.

BELIEVE in the NAME!
BELIEVE that the SIGNS are in you!

This 'believing' doesn't come from mere knowledge, but from pure faith in the only saving name.

These 'believers' aren't your average Christians, they are the RADICAL Christians. The kind that doesn't fear to be looked upon as crazy!

But, in order for these signs to accompany believers, there must be something about the faith.

Faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.

You must be able to grasp something that you cannot see. Thus, the Holy Ghost. Being that the 'substance' is now in you must hope on the only saving name of Jesus and allow that substance freedom to exercise. For that substance is within you, and the name of Jesus transfers it to whatever connects.

What allows the substance freedom is the Mouth and the Hands. Two vital senses.

The hands connect and the mouth proclaims.

Well, whats there to wait on? He's already there. He just awaits your part.

Just do it, and He goes.

Who Killed Him?

Genesis 2:7
"And the LORD God formed man of the dust of the ground, and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life; and man became a living being."

Revelation 13:8
"...written in the Book of Life of the Lamb slain from the foundation of the world."

Now, we know that the Lamb that was slain signifies Jesus Christ of Nazareth. But, it also states that He was slain from the foundation of the world. But, where is it recorded? He was slain about 2,000 years ago. But, here, it says He was slain from the foundation of the world. Can this be correct? Or better yet, is it correct?

Yes. It is definitely correct. This Bible that we have is the infallable Word of God. God is Omniscient.

He knows the end from the beginning.

Now, here's the history and understanding of this concept:

In the beginning, God made Adam. He molded Him of the dust of the ground and breathed His breath into Adam and he became a living being.

A little further, God made the man in His own image and likeness. (Genesis 1:27)

So, what happened was that God made Adam's body and God breathed into Adam His Spirit and Adam became a living being. So, when God's Spirit connected with Adam's body, Adam became a living being.

God is what completes man. God is the only source of life. But, Adam disobeyed the Spirit that resided in him, therefore, the Spirit of God and man disconnected. Now, Adam became dead to the Spirit within him, and thus, the Spirit died from the perception of man.

So, who killed Him? Adam did. Now, don't take this out of context. Adam is translated man, thus all mankind.

But how did Adam happen to kill the Spirit of God from within him? Notice, the Spirit didn't really die. He's alive! He's the Resurrection and the Life! But, to Adam, He's been slain. The sin describes everything.

The Lord commanded Adam not to eat from the fruit of the tree of the Knowledge of Good and Evil. The fruit of the tree opened the knowledge of man. But, it is the knowledge of good and evil. The knowledge came about outside of God. The fruit caused the man to seek out knowledge of himself rather than through God.

This opened up man's 5 senses. Taste, sight, hearing, touch, and smell.
But, these senses are the gateways of sin. The disobedience of Adam isn't so much that caused the fall, but it is what the disobedience unraveled.

It is when God saw that Adam hid himself, that God brought him into judgment. Adam saw that he was naked.

But, since God is holy, He and sin will not abide in the same vessel. Thank God for the blood of Jesus that atones for our sin.

God has become detatched from His ultimate and most loved creation because of Adam.

But your iniquities have separated you from your God; and your sins have hidden His face from you, so that He will not hear. (Isaiah 59:2)

Why? Man has the ability of choice. But, what happened with Adam is that his disobedience caused the Spirit to anger. But, his actions caused enmity with the Spirit.

Adam allowed sin through the gates of his life. Therefore, the human body is now corrupt.

With our eyes, we lust for things.
With our mouths, we speak evil.
With our ears, we allow evil into us.
With our hands, we distort.
With our noses, we're lured into evil.

Our senses allowed sin into the abode of the Spirit and the Spirit left.

This is just an understanding of the fallen state of man.
Therefore, our fallen state is because we killed Him in the beginning. So, Jesus came in the fullness of time and demonstrated what was done in the realm of the supernatural. He made a public spectacle.

Jesus was there. He is the exact image of the invisible God.

So, who killed Him?

We didn't, our actions did!

They led Him on the road to Calvary before we were ever even born.

But, He was wounded for our transgressions, He was bruised for our iniquities. (Isaiah 53:5)

Beyond the Gate

Genesis 28:12
Then he dreamed, and behold, a ladder was set up on the earth, and its top reached to heaven; and there the angels of God were ascending and descending on it.

Genesis 28:16-17
Then Jacob awoke from his sleep and said, “Surely the LORD is in this place, and I did not know it. ” And he was afraid and said, “How awesome is this place! This is none other than the house of God, and this is the gate of heaven!”

John 3:5
Jesus answered, “Most assuredly, I say to you, unless one is born of water and the Spirit, he cannot enter the kingdom of God.

John 3:12-13
If I have told you earthly things and you do not believe, how will you believe if I tell you heavenly things? No one has ascended to heaven but He who came down from heaven, that is, the Son of Man who is in heaven."


Jacob dreamed of the ladder reaching to heaven and there was activity upon the ladder. Angels of God ascending and descending. Jacob realized something vital though, this was the house of God and the gate of heaven.

Jesus spoke of being born of the water and of the Spirit in order to enter the kingdom of God. Heaven is His throne and the earth is His footstool. What is the house that man can make Him?(Isaiah 66:1)

What Jesus really said to the man, Nicodemus, was that being born again was only the entrance to heaven. Some of us have just settled for the gate. Speaking in tongues is just the gate! Its not just about having the Holy Ghost! God is in the business of revelation. He seeks to reveal things that were never known to you. Its not time to get comfortable just speaking in tongues.

Jacob called this instance the house of God and the gate of heaven. God's throne is in heaven but His house is really the sanctuary of believers. There's so much more to heaven than just the sanctuary. Being born again, you just got through the gate to the sanctuary. There is still the whole tabernacle to explore!

Now, the tabernacle of the Old Testament was just copies of the things in heaven.(Hebrews 9:23)

Jesus' sacrifice was not only for the entrance, but also for the tour of the Heavenly Kingdom. The veil was torn in two so that we would know God for who He is and not just what He can do. Life in Christ ought to be an adventure, so don't settle for less than what God has for you.

Do not become complacent on just having the required ticket to paradise, explore the place! Have fun! Get involved!

God has many things in store for those who search the place out. He wants to show you the order of heaven, He wants to give you spiritual insight, He wants to show you things that others don't even have a clue of.

But, its only when you realize that its not just about the gate, its about the activity thereof. God wants to give you a sneak peek into the Most Holy Place! He wants to guide you through the place and amaze you! As He spoke to Nicodemus, He said so! Its a promise!

But, you must first realize that its not just about the gate!

God wants to show you that you can be part of the government in His city; an apostle.
Or maybe, even one who guides; a prophet.
How about one who gathers; an evangelist.
Even one who guards; a pastor.
And definitely, one who grounds; a teacher.

There are many things God wants for you and to do through you. Just understand, its for your good and His glory!

Don't settle for less, allow God to take you into different realms and levels.

ITS NOT JUST ABOUT THE GATE!

Vacancy

Genesis 1:2
"The earth was without form, and void; and darkness was on the face of the deep. And the Spirit of God was hovering over the face of the waters."

Talk about empty!

The earth was without form and void. It had no form and it was absolutely empy!

Now, theres a couple of things to note...

1. It was without form.
2. It was void.
3. It was dark.

But, the Spirit of God was hovering on the face of the waters.

God is inexhaustible. He cannot be described. But, you can learn from the second verse in the Bible. But, let's expand a little bit.

What God does, is quite amazing! He takes absolutely nothing and makes the BIGGEST and most GLORIOUS something!

When you put "nothing" in the hands of God and give Him all the "something" you have, you give the best platform for God to perform.

There was once a widow who had two sons. She had no money and the creditors were coming to get her two sons for her unpaid debt. She had "nothing" but a tiny bit of oil. So, she called out to the man of God, which is Elisha, and told him her problem. The prophet replied to her, "Get some empty bottles and watch what God can do for you! Remember, get as much as you can!" So, the woman got her sons to get a whole lot of empty bottles. The bottles were all vacant.

So, the woman starts pouring all that tiny bit of oil into those bottles and the Spirit of God was in her midst. She may not have known, but it was! The miraculous was at work!

She's pouring it all, but its not running out! But, learn this. When there was no more vacant vessels, the oil stopped flowing.

All, that God needs from anyone is a vacant vessel. God doesn't need or want a high class, 5 star, top notch thing to use. All He wants nothing and their something and He's got it all under control!

God made humans out of dirt, the universe out of nothing, and also made a High Class prophet out of a man that couldn't even talk without studdering. Anyone ever heard of Moses? His complaint to God was that he couldn't talk! Most likely, he was smelly and he dwelt with sheep! This guy was once in the Pharaoh's palace but now he's with smelly sheep and he's speaking sheep with them! He's come from filthy rich to filthy poor. This guy is absolutely nothing.

But, God wanted to use this no life dude to lead His people out of Egypt. As everyone knows the story, it was a complete success! God did the miraculous various times through the vacant vessel named Moses.

To conclude, being used of God does not take worthiness. All it takes is nothingness. God takes pleasure in a broken and contrite heart, not a puffed up and proud one. Simply, give your nothing or weaknesses to God and He will show you something and His strength.

God goes around searching for vacant vessels everyday! Trust me, no one can do anything for God unless God does it through them. Let God know that you can't live for Him and that you can't minister. Make yourself available and watch what the Almighty does with nothing!

All it takes is vacancy.

GOD brought forth plagues, parted waters, performed miracles, healed sicknesses, cleansed lepers, brought down walls, won battles, and spoke through a whole bunch of nobodies just like me and you. So, whats the complaint, God can still do it....

Vacancy... is it you?

A Whole New World

Revelation 21:3-5
"And I heard a loud voice from heaven saying, “Behold, the tabernacle of God is with men, and He will dwell with them, and they shall be His people. God Himself will be with them and be their God. And God will wipe away every tear from their eyes; there shall be no more death, nor sorrow, nor crying. There shall be no more pain, for the former things have passed away.” Then He who sat on the throne said, “Behold, I make all things new.”"

What is the Kingdom? Or perhaps, what is the Gospel of the Kingdom?

Jesus mentioned these phrases many times. But, is it understood in today's world?

I once heard an awesome preacher pose this question. And I must say, he had an excellent answer to it.

Now, we must know, Jesus knew what He was talking about and so did His disciples. In order for us to understand this phrase, we must glance at the first places that Jesus has mentioned it in the Book of Matthew. And one of those places is chapter 10.

In chapter 10, Jesus sent out His 12 disciples to preach, "the kingdom of heaven is at hand!" One thing that must be understood is that it was only preached to the House of Israel. This Gospel is also proclaimed in the Book of Revelation by an angel. Thus, this is an important detail that must not be left out.

Now, the Kingdom itself is pointed out by Jesus if you closely pay attention to what proceeded this phrase.

"Heal the sick, cleanse the lepers, raise the dead, cast out demons. Freely you have received, freely give."(Matthew 10:8)

Another key point is that nothing else is ever preached about the kingdom of heaven, its rather demonstrated. Note, this is what the "Gospel of the Kingdom" is. The gospel of the kingdom is preached but is not vocal. It is demonstrated.

Furthermore, there is a reason it is demonstrated and not vocal. And, also, to the certain group of people.

The Jews followed Jesus only because of the signs and miracles.(John 6:2) The only way that the Children of Israel would believe is by works. Thus, this expresses God's grace and mercy.

Although it is only preached to Jews, it is in action in the Gentiles that have received the Gift of the Holy Ghost. For they have been born of the water and of the Spirit according to John 3. They have gained entrance into the Kingdom and it is currently at work. But, the Jews didn't receive Jesus as Messiah. Stephen spoke of it in Acts 7 that they were a stiff-necked people. They didn't realize that the Kingdom was in their midst.

Therefore, God extends His grace and mercy to Israel with the Gospel of the Kingdom.

Basically, the Gospel of the Kingdom is translated as The Good News of The Kingdom is a pre-taste of the Kingdom of God.

No sorrow, no pain, no suffering, no tears, no death. Abundant Life with the Creator.

So, to answer the question, The Gospel of the Kingdom is the healing of all sickness, the freeing of the possessed, and the miraculous at work in the lives of people...

The Almighty is One

Note that this has not been given to me because its in the doctrine in which I believe. Although, this is the doctrine in which I believe. But, this term is necessary: I was in the Spirit and God imparted this truth into me.


John 1:1,2
"In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was in the beginning with God. All things were made through Him, and without Him nothing was made that was made. In Him was life, and the life was the light of men. And the light shines in the darkness, and the darkness did not comprehend it."

John 1:14
"And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we beheld His glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father, full of grace and truth."

Deuteronomy 6:4
“Hear, O Israel: The LORD our God, the LORD is one!"


God abides by His rules. Jesus is 100% God and Man. Therefore, God came to earth in fullness through Jesus Christ but, being Man, He didn't operate in the entirety of His intensity because of the limitations of man. He abided by the rules He created. Therefore, He's the Mighty God in Christ!

Also, this is how it is possible for Jesus to communicate with God in the sense of 'Father'. Everything was done legally therefore Jesus was a prayer warrior just as men ought to be in order for God's mighty power to be freely accessed through the Man Jesus Christ. And that's why Jesus' resurrected body was immortal. He no longer had to pray because He is freely allowed to access all the power for God to move freely without crossing His boundaries. Thus, Jesus is God!

The Holy Ghost is the Spirit of Jesus. This is God as He travels through the "Spirit World". He spreads it out to all who seek and long to follow Him and turn from unrighteousness. Therefore, know that its the indwelling Spirit which is the One True God that has manifested Himself in a "user-friendly" way. No three things but One alone that takes upon many manifestations and titles. 1 being, 1 person! Only difference is the intensity at which He manifests His presence due to the fact that He won't step out of His boundaries in order to preserve the human being that He chooses to reveal Himself to.

Therefore, Jesus is the representative of God. Basically, He is the image of the invisible.(Colossians 1:15) Notice, you still can't see Him in His full intensity and live.(Revelation 1:17) His face is the light of the New Jerusalem.(Revelation 21:23)

Behold all you people, the Lord God is One who has manifested Himself in different intensities as well as different restrictions according to what He chooses to manifest Himself to.

Think of it as electricity.
I=V/R
"I" is the intensity that He comes in.
"V" is the power. Notice, voltage doesn't change in this situation.
"R" is what causes the intensity to change. The resistance is what God chooses to reveal Himself as.
So, being that Jesus has resurrected from the dead, resistance is eliminated and He alone is Lord of all!

Know that God is the God of the impossible and is inexhaustible. He can take upon any image and many forms. But, in all simplicity, He's still only ONE.

For some extra, Satan tempted Jesus not to sin, but to go beyond His boundaries as a human being. But, it is well known that Satan has failed in his attempt.

Warning

2 Thessalonians 1:6-10
"Since it is a righteous thing with God to repay with tribulation those who trouble you, and to give you who are troubled rest with us when the Lord Jesus is revealed from heaven with His mighty angels, in flaming fire taking vengeance on those who do not know God, and on those who do not obey the gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ. These shall be punished with everlasting destruction from the presence of the Lord and from the glory of His power, when He comes, in that Day, to be glorified in His saints and to be admired among all those who believe, because our testimony among you was believed."

God is fair. The choices He has made us with are very vital decisions to make. The choices we make here and now will most certainly echo throughout eternity. God is holy. The Greek word for holy is "hagios". The word in itself means to be separate from common condition and use. Therefore, what is of God shall not be called "common". God is divine in all that He does.

Therefore, it is only right for God to take vengeance. Being that He has shown His grace and mercy on the cross of Jesus Christ, it will not be long until He deals out retribution on all those who have not heeded His warning to turn from their sins. God has called mankind to a place of repentance at getting right with God.

But, do not be deceived, God is not mocked. Whatever a man sows, that will he also reap. God repays accordingly. He rewards those who have been made righteous by His blood. He also deals out retribution to those who reject Him and do not obey His gospel. He pays them what they have sown; lawlessness. This is where the punishment of everlasting destruction enters the scene. everlasting destruction is what we, in the 21st century, call Hell. It is made for all who do not know God and do not obey the gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ. It is the absence of God's presence. It is punishment; total separation from God and from His glorious power. It is everlasting torment. The fire is unquenchable and the worm there doesn't die. (Isaiah 66:24) It is the abiding wrath of God. (John 3:36) All the rumors of this place are false. This place is not fun. It is dreadful and tormenting. It is real and all those who do not obey the Gospel and do not know God should turn from their ways and turn to God who is merciful and gracious before its too late.

“There was a certain rich man who was clothed in purple and fine linen and fared sumptuously every day. But there was a certain beggar named Lazarus, full of sores, who was laid at his gate, desiring to be fed with the crumbs which fell from the rich man’s table. Moreover the dogs came and licked his sores. So it was that the beggar died, and was carried by the angels to Abraham’s bosom. The rich man also died and was buried. And being in torments in Hades, he lifted up his eyes and saw Abraham afar off, and Lazarus in his bosom. “Then he cried and said, ‘Father Abraham, have mercy on me, and send Lazarus that he may dip the tip of his finger in water and cool my tongue; for I am tormented in this flame.’ But Abraham said, ‘Son, remember that in your lifetime you received your good things, and likewise Lazarus evil things; but now he is comforted and you are tormented. And besides all this, between us and you there is a great gulf fixed, so that those who want to pass from here to you cannot, nor can those from there pass to us.’ “Then he said, ‘I beg you therefore, father, that you would send him to my father’s house, for I have five brothers, that he may testify to them, lest they also come to this place of torment.’ Abraham said to him, ‘They have Moses and the prophets; let them hear them.’ And he said, ‘No, father Abraham; but if one goes to them from the dead, they will repent.’ But he said to him, ‘If they do not hear Moses and the prophets, neither will they be persuaded though one rise from the dead.’” -Luke 16:19-31

Salvation is obeying the Gospel. But those who refuse to obey the Gospel will have their part in the lake of fire, God's final and total wrath on sin and rebellion.

First Love

Revelation 2:1-7
"To the angel of the church in Ephesus write: These are the words of him who holds the seven stars in his right hand and walks among the seven golden lampstands: I know your deeds, your hard work and your perseverance. I know that you cannot tolerate wicked men, that you have tested those who claim to be apostles but are not, and have found them false. You have persevered and have endured hardships for my name, and have not grown weary. Yet I hold this against you: You have forsaken your first love. Remember the height from which you have fallen! Repent and do the things you did at first. If you do not repent, I will come to you and remove your lampstand from its place. But you have this in your favor: You hate the practices of the Nicolaitans, which I also hate. He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches. To him who overcomes, I will give the right to eat from the tree of life, which is in the paradise of God."

I remember the day, the day it happened to me. It hit me on every side. Fire, Water, Wind, Lightning, & Thunder rushed into my heart. It was a summer night in 2005. It was a day I will never forget in my entire lifetime. What a day it was! I left in awe. Gazing towards heaven. Oh, how I love Thee. The day it happened to me. Some may know what I'm talking about, others may not. Well, to let you know... Jesus Christ! This is my First Love. Along with everyone who ever knows Him. In the Bible, His presence is described as the elements listed above. I always wondered why. It's because there's a feeling that surpasses satisfaction in the presence of the most Holy. Such as the prophet Isaiah's inaugurated call to be a prophet. As he was driven in the throne room of Heaven, he saw the Lord seated on the throne. He was high and lifted up! The train of His robe filled the temple with glory! This feeling is so glorious that that young prophet is ruined. He says, "Woe is me." The Seraphs which are hovering around the Lord and His glory comes to Isaiah's aid. Isaiah confesses his iniquity, then he is purged with a burning coal from the altar of the Lord. This is the love that I'm talking about. Unconditional. His iniquities are now wiped away by the element of Fire... from the Lord. Now, in this time of the age, many have felt what the prophet has felt. A presence that is beyond satisfaction. Let me paraphrase, the Holy Spirit; the presence of our Lord. It is REAL!

But, the many that have felt this have been so caught up as the church in Ephesus. So caught up in working for the Lord, that they forgot about their first love. God isn't that interested in what you do for Him, it's what you do with Him. Is this relationship based on communication? This is God's desire, don't forget your First Love. Jesus said, "I know how you're going through a lot and persevering, but you are forgetting the most important thing... ME! I'm the One that delivers you, it's Me that knows you, and it's Me that hears you. Spend you life in My presence and I want to talk to you!" Don't get so caught up in going through the motions, don't get so caught up in fighting. What we need to get caught up in is Jesus! Besides, He's so caught up in us. He came to the world because He loves us! He lived stainless because He wanted to make peace for us! He provided the atonement! He loves us sooooo much! He became the sacrificial Lamb. He is, was, and is to come! He died the most brutal death ever devised! Because, He loves us! He loved me! He sought after me! He loves me to death... literally! He hung on that cross and was killed by me.. and you... the world. We killed Him, we sinned, He didn't!! And as He was gasping for breath, He said, "Father, forgive them for they know not what they do." But, He is the author and finisher. He said to those who forget Him, He's gonna get you quickly. Don't play with this. As much as He loves, He also has wrath. Think wisely. He said, "Repent, or else."

Matthew 7:21-23 Our Lord speaking: "Not everyone who says to me, 'Lord, Lord,' will enter the kingdom of heaven, but only he who does the will of my Father who is in heaven. Many will say to me on that day, 'Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in your name, and in your name drive out demons and perform many miracles?' Then I will tell them plainly, 'I never knew you. Away from me, you evildoers!'"

The Principles of Doctrine

"Thus it is written, and thus it behoved Christ to suffer, and to rise from the dead the third day; and that repentance and remission of sins should be preached in his name among all nations, beginning at Jerusalem. And ye are witnesses of these things. And, behold, I send the promise of my Father upon you: but tarry ye in the city of Jerusalem, until ye be endued with power from on high" (Luke 24:46-49).
"But ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you; and ye shall be witnesses unto me both in Jerusalem, and in all Judaea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth" (Acts 1:8).
"Then Peter said unto them, Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost" (Acts 2:38).
"Neither is there salvation in any other: for there is none other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved" (Acts 4:12)
"As we said before, so say I now again, If any man preach any other gospel unto you than that ye have received, let him be accursed" (Galatians 1:9).
"And are built upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Jesus Christ himself being the chief corner stone" (Ephesians 2:20).
"As I besought thee to abide still at Ephesus, when I went into Macedonia, that thou mightest charge some that they teach no other doctrine" (I Timothy 1:3).
"All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness" (II Timothy 3:16).

The Bible
The Bible is the inspired Word of God, giving a true history of the creation of heaven, earth, and humanity and containing a correct prophecy of the ages to come regarding heaven, earth, and the destiny of humanity. Moreover, there is no salvation outside of what is taught in its pages.

God
There is only one God (Deuteronomy 6:4). He is the creator of heaven and earth, and of all living beings. He has revealed Himself to humanity as the Father (Creator), in the Son (Savior), and as the Holy Ghost (indwelling Spirit).

Father
God is a Spirit (John 4:24). He is the Eternal One, the Creator of all things, and the Father of all humanity by creation.He is the First and the Last, and beside Him there is no God (Isaiah 44:6).There was no God formed before Him; neither shall be there any after Him (Isaiah 43:10).

Son
Jesus is the Son of God according to the flesh (Romans 1:3) and the very God Himself according to the Spirit (Matthew 1:23). Jesus is the Christ (Matthew 16:16); the creator of all things (Colossians 1:16-17); God with us (Matthew 1:23); God made flesh (John 1:1-14); God manifested in the flesh (I Timothy 3:16);He which was, which is, and which is to come, the Almighty (Revelation 1:8);the mighty God, everlasting Father, and Prince of peace (Isaiah 9:6).Jesus Himself testified of His identity as God when He said, "He that hath seen me hath seen the Father" (John 14:7-11) and "I and my Father are one" (John 10:30).It took shedding of blood for the remission of the sins of the world (Hebrews 9:22), but God the Father was a Spirit and had no blood to shed. Thus He prepared a body of flesh and blood (Hebrews 10:5)and came to earth as a man in order to save us, for in Isaiah 43:11 He said, "Beside me there is no Saviour." When He came in flesh the angels sang, "For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, which is Christ the Lord" (Luke 2:11).

Holy Ghost
The Holy Ghost is not a third person in the Godhead, but rather the Spirit of God (the Creator), the Spirit of the resurrected Christ. The Holy Ghost comes to dwell in the hearts and lives of everyone who believes and obeys the gospel, as the comforter, Sustainer, and keeper (John 14:16-26; Romans 8:9-11).

Sin
Sin is the transgression of the law, or commandments of God (I John 3:4). The guilt of sin has fallen upon all humanity from Adam until now (Romans 3:23). The wages of sin is eternal death (Romans 6:23; Revelation 20:14) to all those who refuse to accept salvation as set forth in the Word of God.

Salvation
Salvation consists of deliverance from all sin and unrighteousness through the blood of Jesus Christ. The New Testament experience of salvation consists of repentance from sin, water baptism in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and the baptism of the Holy Ghost, after which the Christian is to live a godly life (Acts 2:36-41).

Water Baptism
Water baptism is an essential part of New Testament salvation and not merely a symbolic ritual. It is part of entering into the kingdom of God (God's church, the bride of Christ), and therefore, it is not merely a part of local church membership. (See John 3:5; Galatians 3:27).

Mode of Baptism
Water baptism is to be administered only by immersion. Paul said, "We are buried with him [Jesus Christ] by baptism (Romans 6:4; see Colossians 2:12), Jesus came up "out of the water" (Mark 1:10), and Philip and the eunuch went down "into the water" and came up "out of the water" (Acts 8:38-39).Jesus' death, burial, and resurrection are applied to our lives when we experience New Testament salvation: "Repent [death to sin], and be baptized [burial] every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost [resurrection]." (See Acts 2:38; Romans 6:1-7; 8:2).Sprinkling, pouring, or infant baptism of any kind cannot be substantiated by the Word of God, but are only human traditions.

Formula for Baptism
The name in which baptism is administered is vitally important, and this name is Jesus. Jesus' last command to His disciples was, "Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost" (Matthew 28:19). We should notice that He said name (singular) not names. As previously explained, Father, Son, and Holy Ghost are not names of separate persons, but titles of positions held by God. An angelic announcement revealed God's saving name in the New Testament: "She shall bring forth a son, and thou shalt call his name JESUS: for he shall save his people from their sins" (Matthew 1:21).The apostles understood that Jesus was the name to use at baptism, and from the day that the church of God was established (the Day of Pentecost) until the end of their ministry, they baptized all nations (Jews--Acts 8:16; Gentiles--Acts 19:5) in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ.In fact, Jesus is the only name given for our salvation. "Neither is there salvation in any other: for there is none other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved" (Acts 4:12).

Baptism of the Holy Ghost
The baptism of the Holy Ghost is the birth of the Spirit (John 3:5). This spiritual baptism is necessary to put someone into the kingdom of God (God's church, the bride of Christ) and is evidenced by speaking in other tongues (other languages) as the Spirit of God give utterance.It was prophesied by Joel (Joel 2:28-29) and Isaiah (Isaiah 28:11), foretold by John the Baptist (Matthew 3:11), purchased by the blood of Jesus, and promised by Him to His disciples (John 14:26; 15:16). The Holy Ghost was first poured out on the Day of Pentecost upon the Jews (Acts 2:1-4), then upon the Samaritans (Acts 8:17), and later upon the Gentiles (Acts 10:44-46; 19:6). "The promise is unto you, and to your children, and to all that are afar off, even as many as the Lord our God shall call" (Acts 2:39).

Tongues
Speaking in other tongues as the Spirit of God gives utterance is the manifestation God has given as the definite, indisputable, supernatural witness or sign of the baptism of the Holy Ghost (Acts 2:4; 10:46; 19:6).It was prophesied by the prophet Isaiah as the rest and the refreshing (Isaiah 28:11-12), foretold by Jesus as a sign that would follow believers of the gospel (Mark 16:17), and experienced by Jews and Gentiles alike.
• The gift of "divers kinds of tongues," mentioned by Paul in I Corinthians 12:1-12 and concerning which he gave regulations in I Corinthians 14:1-40, is given by both for self-edification (I Corinthians 14:4) and for the edification of the church (I Corinthians 14:27-28).In church meetings the gift of tongues is used to give a public message, and it is to be interpreted. Since this gift can be misused in public, it needs proper regulation (I Corinthians 14:23-28). Not all believers exercise the gift of tongues, which is different in function from tongues given by God as the initial witness of the baptism of the Holy Ghost.Paul said, "Forbid not to speak with tongues" (I Corinthians 14:39) and "I thank my God, I speak with tongues more than ye all" (I Corinthians 14:8).Who dares to teach or preach to the contrary?Speaking in tongues means speaking miraculously in a language unknown to the speaker, as the Spirit gives utterance. Tongues can be classified in two ways, according to function: (1)speaking in other tongues as the initial evidence of the baptism of the Holy Ghost and (2)the gift of tongues as mentioned in I Corinthians.

Holiness
After we are saved from sin, we are commanded, "Go, and sin no more" (John 8:11).We are commanded to live soberly, righteously, and godly in this present world (Titus 2:12) and warned that without holiness no one shall see the Lord (Hebrews 12:14).We must present ourselves as holy unto God (Romans 12:1), cleanse ourselves from all filthiness of the flesh and spirit (II Corinthians 7:1), and separate ourselves from all worldliness (James 4:4).If the righteous scarcely be saved, where shall the ungodly and the sinner appear? (I Peter 4:18).No one can live a holy life by his own power, but only through the Holy Spirit. "Ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you" (Acts 1:8).

Divine Healing
God has made Himself known through the ages by miraculous healings and has made special provisions in the age of grace to heal all who will come to Him in faith and obedience. Divine healing was purchased for us by the blood of Jesus Christ, especially by His stripes (Isaiah 53:5; Matthew 8:16-17; I Peter 2:24). Jesus went everywhere healing those who were sick (Matthew 4:23-24), and He commanded His disciples to do the same (Matthew 10:8). He said concerning those who believe the gospel, "They shall lay hands on the sick, and they shall recover" (Mark 16:18). Mighty healings and miracles followed the disciples wherever the gospel was preached.There is no sickness or disease too hard for God. Any of us, our children, or our friends can be healed by the power of God."Is any sick among you? let him call for the elders of the church; and let them pray over him , anointing him with oil in the name of the Lord shall raise him up: and if he have committed sins they shall be forgiven him. Confess your faults one to another, and pray one for another, that ye may be healed" (James 5:14-16).

Second Coming of Christ
Jesus Christ is coming back to earth in bodily form, just as He went away (Acts 1:11). He will catch away a holy people (His bride, His church) who have accepted redemption through His blood, by birth of water and of the Spirit, and who are found faithful when He comes."For the Lord himself shall descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the archangel, and with the trump of God: and the dead in Christ shall rise first: then we which are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds, to meet the Lord in the air: and so shall we ever be with the Lord" (I Thessalonians 4:16-17)."One shall be taken and the other left" (Luke 17:36).Will we be ready?The signs of His coming are everywhere. The days of peril are here indeed, with forms of godliness void of the power of God; society and politics corrupted; and people's hearts filled with pride, blasphemies, unholiness, love of evil, and love of pleasures (II Timothy 3:1-13). These things, together with multitudes running to and fro, the increase of knowledge (Daniel 12:4), the persecution of the Jews and their return to Palestine (Luke 21:24), and scores of other things are starting signs that Jesus' coming is drawing near.Wars, rumors of wars, famines, earthquakes, storms, floods, distress of nations, perplexity, and people's hearts failing them for fear are sounding the solemn alarm that Jesus' coming is at hand (Matthew 24:6; Luke 21:25-28)."Prepare to meet thy God" (Amos 4:12).

Resurrection
There will be a resurrection of all the dead, both just and unjust."Marvel not this: for the hour is coming, in the which all that are in graves shall hear his voice, and shall come forth; they that have done good, unto the resurrection of life; and they that have done evil, unto the resurrection of damnation" (John 5:28-29)."And I saw the dead, small and great, stand before God . . . and the sea gave up the dead which were in it; and death and hell delivered up the dead which were in them" (Revelation 20:12-13)> (See also Daniel 12:2; I Corinthians 15:13-23.)

Judgment
"It is appointed unto men once to die, but after this the judgment" (Hebrews 9:27). For this reason there will be a resurrection for everyone. "For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ; that every one may receive the things done in his body, according to that he hath done, whether it be good or bad" (II Corinthians 5:10).The eternal destiny of every soul shall be determined by a just God who knows the secrets of everyone's heart. "And before him shall be gathered all nations: and he shall separate them one from another, as a shepherd divideth his sheep from the goats: and he shall set the sheep on his right hand, but the goats on the left. Then shall the King say unto them on his right hand, Come, ye blessed of my Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world. . . .Then shall he also say unto them on the left hand, Depart from me, ye cursed, into everlasting fire, prepared for the devil and his angels. . . . And these shall go away into everlasting punishment; but the righteous into life eternal" (Matthew 25:32-34, 41, 46).