"One WORD"

 

Ephesians 2:1-9 " And you hath HE quickened, who were dead in trespasses and sins; wherein in time past ye walked according to the course of this world, according to the prince of the power of the air, the spirit that now worketh in the children of disobedience: among whom also we all had our conversation in times past in the lusts of our flesh, fulfilling the desires of the flesh and of the mind, and were by nature the children of wrath, even as others.

But GOD, WHO is rich in mercy, for HIS great love wherewith HE loved us, even when we were dead in sins, hath quickened us together with CHRIST, (by grace ye are saved;) and hath raised us up together in heavenly places in CHRIST JESUS: that in the ages to come HE might show the exceeding riches of HIS grace in HIS kindness toward us through CHRIST JESUS. For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of GOD: not of works, lest any man should boast."

     In studying the Scriptures, it is always a delight to come across seemingly insignificant words that ultimately change the course of the narrative and add a whole new layer of meaning to the passage. A simple word like "But" ought to capture our attention as we read GOD's WORD. One key passage of Scripture -- Ephesians 2:1-6 -- quickly comes to mind because it highlights the importance of this little word.

     Ephesians 2 begins with Paul's description of the spiritual condition of the believers at Ephesus before they were saved: dead in trespasses and sins, walking according to the present age and to the prince of the power of the air (the spirit working in the children of disobedience), with their manner of life in the lust of their old nature, who were by nature the children of wrath just like those around them. Please notice, however, that all of this changed at verse four with these WORDs: "But GOD. . ." Our redemption from sin hangs on the word "but." The Apostle Paul explains: "But GOD, WHO is rich in mercy, for HIS great love wherewith HE loved us, even when we were dead in sins, hath quickened us together with CHRIST, (by grace ye are saved;) and hath raised us up together, and made us sit together in heavenly places in CHRIST JESUS: that in the ages to come HE might show the exceeding riches of HIS grace in HIS kindness toward us through CHRIST JESUS. For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of GOD: not of works, lest any man should boast" (vv.4-9). Think of it: from death to life, from a walk of wickedness to a life of holiness. What looked so desperately dark is now suffused with glorious light -- in CHRIST ! JED

Your servant in CHRIST,

Julie

Copyright, FEATURE: A Daily Bible Study Guide.

Used  with  permission.    www.featoday.org

https://www.fivestarchristianministries.com/salvation

"A Search for ATONING BLOOD"

 

"For the life of the flesh is in the blood: and

I have given it to you upon the altar to

make an atonement for your souls: for it is

the blood that maketh an atonement for

the soul."  Leviticus 17:11

One spring evening many years ago, and old Jewish gentleman gave the following personal account to a meeting of fellow Hebrews.

"This is Passover week among you, my Jewish brethren, and as I sit here I was thinking how you will be observing it. You will have to put away all leaven from your houses; you will eat the Matzoth (unleavened bread) and the roasted Lamb. You will attend the synagogue and carry out the ritual and direction of the Talmud; but you forget, my brethren, that you have done everything, but that which JEHOVAH required first of all.

HE did not say, 'When I see the leaven put away,' or 'When I see you eat the Matzoth, or the Lamb, or go to the synagogue,' but HIS WORD was, 'When I see the blood, I will pass over you.' Ah ! My brethren, you cannot substitute anything for this. You must have blood - blood - blood."

     As he reiterated this word with ever increasing emphasis, his black eyes flashed warningly, and his Jewish hearers trembled before him. Blood ! It is an awful word for one who reveres the ancient oracles and yet has no sacrifice. Turn where he will in the Book, the blood meets him; but let him seek where he may, he cannot find it in the Judaism of the present.

     After a moment's pause, the old man went on somewhat as follows: "I was born in Israel, nearly seventy years ago. As a child I was taught to read the Law, the Psalms, and the Prophets. I attended the synagogue and learned what I was told, that our's was the true and only religion. As I grew older and studied the Law more intently, I was struck by the place the blood had in all the ceremonies outlined there, and I was equally struck by its utter absence in the rituals in which I was brought up. Again and again, I read Exodus 12 and Leviticus 16 and 17. The latter chapters especially made me tremble as I thought of the great day of atonement and the place the blood had there. Day and night, one verse would ring in my ears: "It is the blood that maketh atonement for the soul." I knew I had broken the Law; I needed atonement. Year after year, on that day, I beat my breast as I confessed my need of it; but it was to be made by blood, and there was no BLOOD !

     In my distress, I at last opened my heart to a learned and venerable Rabbi. He told me that GOD was angry with HIS people, the temple was destroyed, and a Mohammedan Mosque was reared up in its place. The only spot on this Earth where we dare shed the blood of sacrifice, in accordance with Deuteronomy 12 and Leviticus 17, was desecrated when our nation was scattered. That was why there was no blood. GOD HIMSELF had closed the way to carry out the solemn service of the great Day of Atonement. According to the Rabbi, we must turn to the Talmud, rest on its instructions, and trust in the mercy of GOD and the merits of our fathers.

     I tried to be satisfied but could not. Something seemed to say that the Law was unaltered, even though our temple was destroyed. Nothing else but the blood could atone for the soul. We dare not shed blood for atonement elsewhere than in the place the LORD had chosen. This meant we were left without an atonement at all. The thought filled me with horror. In my distress I consulted many other Rabbis. I had but one great question - Where can I find the blood of atonement ? I was over thirty years of age when I left Israel and came to Constantinople with my still unanswered question ever before my mind, and my soul exceedingly troubled about my sins.

     One night I was walking down one of the narrow streets of that city, when I saw a sign telling of a meeting for Jews. Curiosity led me to open the door and go in. Just as I took a seat, I heard a man say, "The blood of JESUS CHRIST HIS SON cleanseth us from all sin." It was my first introduction to Christianity, but I listened breathlessly as the speaker told how GOD had declared that "Without shedding of blood is no remission." However, HE had given HIS only begotten SON, the LAMB of GOD, to die for our sins, and those who trusted in HIS BLOOD were forgiven of all their iniquities. This was the MESSIAH of Isaiah 53, and this was the SUFFERER of Psalm 22.

     AH, my brethren, I had found the blood atonement at last. I trusted it, and now I love to read the New Testament and see how all the shadows of the Law are fulfilled in JESUS. HIS BLOOD has been shed for sinners - once for all. It has satisfied GOD, and it is the only means of salvation for either Jew or Gentile."

Dear Reader, have you yet found the Blood of atonement ? Are you trusting in GOD's smitten LAMB ?

It is written in GOD's WORD:

"...when I see the blood, I will pass over you..." (Exodus 12:13)

"...for it is the blood that maketh an atonement for the soul." (Leviticus 17:11)

"...the blood of JESUS CHRIST HIS SON cleanseth us from all sin." (1st.John 1:7)

"In WHOM we have redemption through HIS blood, even the forgiveness of sins:" (Colossians 1:14)

"But this MAN, after HE had offered one sacrifice for sins for ever, sat down on the right hand of GOD;" (Hebrews 10:12)

"That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the LORD JESUS, and shalt believe in thine heart that GOD hath raised HIM from the dead, thou shalt be saved. . .For whosoever shall call upon the name of the LORD shall be saved." (Romans 10:9,13)

If you would be willing to turn to CHRIST in repentance and faith, pray this simple prayer of salvation:

LORD, I know that I am a sinner, and I believe YOU died and rose again for me. I am trusting YOU to forgive me. Come into my heart and save me. Help me to live for you always. In JESUS' name I pray, AMEN.

Everlasting life is ours when we receive CHRIST as our blood atonement and personal SAVIOR.

Your servant in CHRIST,

Julie

https://www.fivestarchristianministries.com/salvation

"GOD's Super-Abounding Grace"

 

John 1:15-18 "John (the Baptist) bare witness of HIM, and cried, saying, This was HE of WHOM I spake, HE that cometh after me is preferred before me: for HE was before me. And of HIS fulness have all we received, and grace for grace. For the Law was given by Moses but grace and truth came by JESUS CHRIST. No man hath seen GOD at any time; the only begotten SON, which is in the bosom of the FATHER, HE hath declared (shown) HIM."

     "For the grace of GOD that bringeth salvation hath appeared to all men" (Titus 2:11). The LORD JESUS CHRIST made HIS grand entrance into this world, and HE was grace personified. Grace characterized HIS first coming: "For the Law was given by Moses, but grace and truth came by JESUS CHRIST" (v.17); the prior verse reveals the inexhaustible resources of GOD's grace: "And of HIS fulness have all we received, and grace for grace" (v.16). HIS grace, which we do not deserve as all, involves GOD's amazing provision found in JESUS CHRIST. The expression "grace for grace" in verse sixteen can be literally rendered "grace instead of grace" or "grace in place of grace." GOD's bountiful supply of grace is constantly replaced by yet more grace.

The best way to visualize this phrase is to think of the waves of the ocean. One wave is replaced by the next wave; the waves keep coming continually, wave upon wave. So, GOD's rich grace constantly crashes upon the needy soul, wave after of grace, a limitless supply to be enjoyed by the believing heart. One wave of grace is followed by the next wave, and then the next, and then the next. The Law could show us our need, BUT the Law could never answer our need. Grace, grounded in the work of CHRIST on Calvary, provides everything the sin-sick soul needs, and GOD's provision will never run dry. "And GOD is able to make all grace abound toward you; that ye, always having all sufficiency in all things, may abound to ever good work. . .being enriched in every thing to all bountifulness" (2nd.Corinthians 9:8,11). "And the grace of our LORD was exceeding abundant with faith and love which is in CHRIST JESUS" (1st.Timothy 1:14 also pictured above). GWZ

Your servant in CHRIST,

Julie

Copyright, FEATURE: A Daily Bible Study Guide.

Used  with  permission.    www.featoday.org

https://www.fivestarchristianministries.com/salvation

"True Victory"

     Athletes have long-been aspiring for victory. Years of training, self-discipline, perseverance, patience, and determination are all in preparation for the goal. Whether competing as a team player or individually, the hope is to reach that defining moment when victory is claimed.

WHAT IS TRUE VICTORY ?

     Astylos of Croton, an Olympic champion in ancient Greece, donned the prestigious olive wreath six times, claiming the highest victory in three Olympiads. A record-breaking runner, Astylos' claim to fame was winning an event in which the athletes ran with a full armored suit.

     Though Astylos gained fame and notoriety and was among those reaching the pinnacle of successful athleticism, he died a defeated and lonely man. It was discovered by his compatriots, that he had received a bribe to participate under the banner of Syracuse. To dishonor his name, the people of Croton demolished his statue and converted his home into a prison. His family disowned him.

     The victory of Astylos was temporary. "And every man that striveth for the mastery is temperate in all things. Now they do it to obtain a corruptible crown; but we an incorruptible." (1st.Corinthians 9:25). True and lasting victory is not found in trophies, medals, and the praise of men. The victor standing in the winner's circle today will be replaced by another tomorrow. Age, injury, and fading popularity prevent victory from being permanent.

     True Victory is not found in a position, but in the person of JESUS CHRIST. "For what shall it profit a man, if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul ?" (Mark8:36). Friend, if you want true victory, it has already been won for you.

1.  Without JESUS CHRIST, we are all losers. "For all have sinned and come short of the glory of GOD." (Romans 3:23). Because we are sinners, we are all under the condemnation of sin. Defeat is certain.

2.  The condemnation of our sin will send us to and eternal death in a Devil's Hell.

"For the wages of sin is death. . ." (Romans 6:23a). "Wherefore as by one man (Adam), sin entered into the world, and death by sin; and so death passed upon all men, for that all have sinned."(Romans 5:12). If we have broken even one of GOD's commandments, we will stand condemned before an all Holy GOD. "For whosoever shall keep the whole Law, and yet offend in one point, he is guilty of all." (James 2:10).

3.  GOD loved us so much that HE gave HIS only perfect and sinless SON to suffer in our place.

"For GOD so loved the world, that HE gave HIS only begotten SON, that whosoever believeth in HIM should not perish, but have everlasting life." (John 3:16). "For HE hath made HIM to be sin for us, WHO knew no sin..." (2nd.Corinthians 5:21). "But GOD commendeth HIS love toward us, in that while we were yet sinners, CHRIST died for us." (Romans 5:8).

4.  Our victory was won when JESUS CHRIST triumphed over the grave and hell.

"O Death, where is thy sting O grave where is thy victory ?. . .But thanks be to GOD, which giveth us the victory." (1st.Corinthians 15:55,57). "Moreover, brethren, I declare unto you the Gospel which I preached unto you, which also ye have received and wherein ye stand; by which also ye are saved,. . .For I delivered unto you first of all that which I also received, how that CHRIST died for our sins according to the Scriptures; and that HE was buried, and that HE rose again the third day according to the Scriptures:" (1st.Corinthians 15:1-2a,3-4).

5.  CHRIST's victory is ours for the claiming. The prize is eternal life with HIM in Heaven. "But as many as received HIM, to them gave HE power to become the sons of GOD, even to them that believe on HIS name:" (John 1:12) "That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the LORD JESUS, and shall believe in thine heart that GOD hath raised HIM from the dead, thou shalt be saved. For with the heart man believeth unto righteousness; and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation. . . For whosoever shall call upon the name of the LORD shall be saved." (Romans 10:9-10,13).

     Friend, do not be satisfied with temporary victory. The accolades of men, material gain, and financial success will never give true peace and satisfaction. True victory has already been won for you ! If you believe that JESUS CHRIST was crucified, buried and that HE rose again for you and if put your trust in HIM as your only SAVIOR, you will receive the forgiveness of all your sin and the gift of eternal life. Step up and claim it: call on the LORD JESUS CHRIST today !

LORD, I know that I am a sinner, and I believe YOU died and rose again for me. I am trusting YOU to forgive me. Help me to live for YOU always. In JESUS' name I pray, AMEN.

     The LORD JESUS said, "And I give unto them eternal life; and they shall never perish, neither shall any man pluck them out of MY hand." (John 10:28). Everlasting life is ours when we receive CHRIST as our personal SAVIOR.

Your servant in CHRIST,

Julie

https://www.fivestarchristianministries.com/salvation

 

"Do You REALLY BELIEVE GOD's WORD ?"

Philippians 1:19-26 " For I know that this shall turn to my salvation through your prayer, and the supply of the SPIRIT of JESUS CHRIST, according to my earnest expectation and my hope, that in nothing I shall be ashamed, but that with all boldness, as always, so now also CHRIST shall be magnified in my body, whether it be by life, or by death. For to me to live is CHRIST, and to die is gain. But if I live in the flesh, this is the fruit of my labor: yet what I shall choose I wot not. For I am in a strait betwixt two, having a desire to depart, and to be with CHRIST; which is far better: nevertheless to abide in the flesh is more needful for you. And having this confidence, I know that I shall abide and continue with you all for your furtherance and joy of faith; that your rejoicing may be more abundant in JESUS CHRIST for me by my coming to you again."

     Why would anyone ask a truly born again Christian if he really believed GOD's WORD ? Why would any truly saved person question the authority and absolute truthfulness of what the LORD has said ? HIS WORD is forever settled in Heaven (Psalm 119:55 pictured above). Heaven and Earth shall pass away, but HIS WORD's will never pass away (Matthew 25:35). Yes, we may accept this intellectually, but do we sincerely embrace this truth and demonstrate it by our actions ? Take the subject of death, for example, Paul actually wanted to die -- he had "a desire to depart, and to be with CHRIST" (v.23), noting that death for the believer was "far better" and viewing it not as loss but as "gain" (vv. 21,23). Do we genuinely believe this ? Do we have a strong yearning to be with CHRIST ? Are we looking forward to it with joy unspeakable, or are we so attached to this world that we are quite comfortable remaining here longer ? Do we dread our appointment with death, fearing it even though JESUS CHRIST has removed it sting (1st.Corinthians 15:55 pictured below).

     Consider the matter of the Rapture. Is it actually our "blessed hope" and joyous expectation ? Do we love HIS appearing ?  "The Rapture is a wonderful event, but hopefully it will happen later. I have an amazing vacation planned."  "My team might be in the Super Bowl this year, and I would hate to miss that."  "I'm going to be married next year; I'd like that to happen first."  "I'm greatly looking forward to retirement soon."  Do we honestly believe that being with the ONE WHO loved us and gave HIMSELF for us is "far better" ? Detachment from the world's pleasures can only be solved by attachment to JESUS CHRIST. The closer we are to HIM, the more we will want to be with HIM. GWZ

Your servant in CHRIST,

Julie

Copyright, FEATURE: A Daily Bible Study Guide.

Used  with  permission.    www.featoday.org

https://www.fivestarchristianministries.com/salvation

 

"FINAL Orders"

 

     During my 26 years of military service, I often awaited my next orders. As a military professional, I was aware that orders from a higher headquarters could come at any time.

     The Bible teaches that life is no different ! As a matter of fact, it states that your final orders are coming from Heaven. Eventually, GOD will stop your breathing, and you will die. "And as it is appointed unto men once to die, but after this the judgment:" (Hebrews 9:27).

     If you have not accepted the LORD JESUS as your personal SAVIOR, your final orders will send you to a Devil's Hell for all eternity. The LORD states in Revelation 20:15, "And whosoever was not found written in the Book of Life was cast into the Lake of Fire."

     The good news is ". . .GOD hath not appointed us to wrath (punishment in Hell), but to obtain salvation (eternity in Heaven) by our LORD JESUS CHRIST." (1st.Thessalonians 5:9).

     Knowing exactly where your next assignment will take you is a dream come true ! Your final assignment in life will be determined by the decision you make after reading this post. If you choose Hell as your final assignment, do nothing ! You have already done enough ! "The wicked shall be turned into Hell. . ." (Psalm 9:17). If you desire Heaven to be your final assignment, there are several steps you must follow:

     FIRST, you must understand that you are a sinner. The Bible states, "For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of GOD;" (Romans 3:23). All people are born sinners and do not deserve to go to Heaven.

   SECONDLY, you must realize that your sin has deadly consequences. Romans 6:23 says, "For the wages of sin is death. . ." Here, death refers to an eternal separation from GOD in a Devil's Hell.

     THIRDLY, you need to recognize that your sin debt has been paid. The Bible states, "But GOD commendeth HIS love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, CHRIST died for us." (Romans 5:8). JESUS CHRIST, the SON of GOD, took your punishment and died in your place !

     FOURTHLY, you must repent (a turning to GOD from your sin) of your sins. ". . .GOD. . .now commandeth all men every where to repent:" (Acts 17:30). Repentance is a change of heart which causes you to turn toward GOD and away from your present sinful way of life.

    FINALLY, you must take action to ensure higher headquarters knows your intentions. "That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the LORD JESUS, and shalt believe in thine heart that GOD hath raised HIM from the dead, thou shalt be saved. For with the heart man believeth unto righteousness; and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation." (Romans 10:9-10). This passage lists two parts of salvation. You are required to both ask JESUS to save you and also to believe GOD's WORD. If you ask for salvation, yet you do not believe with your heart, you are still on your way to a Devil's Hell.

     When you agreed to serve your country, you believed the promises made to you by the recruiter, and you acted upon those promises. To become a Christian, you must believe GOD's promises and act upon them by asking HIM to save you. GOD cannot lie ! Here is HIS promise to you: "He that believeth on the SON hath everlasting life: and he that believeth not the SON shall not see life; but the wrath of GOD abideth on him." (John 3:36).              

              by   Sergeant Major Doug Carragher, U.S. Army Retired

     If you will accept JESUS CHRIST as your personal SAVIOR, please pray this simple prayer or one similar to it:

LORD, I know that I am a sinner, and I believe YOU died and rose again for me. I am trusting YOU to forgive me. Come into my heart and save me. Help me to live for YOU always. In JESUS' name I pray, AMEN.

     The LORD JESUS said, ". . .I give unto them eternal life; and they shall never perish. . ." (John 10:28). Everlasting life is ours when we receive CHRIST as our personal SAVIOR.

Your servant in CHRIST,

Julie

https://www.fivestarchristianministrires.com/salvation

"The Millennial Kingdom Established"

 

Zechariah 14:9-21 "And the LORD shall be KING over all the Earth: in that day shall there be one LORD, and HIS name one. All the land shall be turned as a plain from Geba to Timmon south of Jerusalem: and it shall be lifted up, and inhabited in her place, from Benjamin's gate unto the place of the first gate, unto the corner gate, and from the tower of Hananeel unto the king's winepress. And men shall dwell in it, and there shall be no more utter destruction; but Jerusalem shall be safely inhabited.

And this shall be the plague wherewith the LORD will smite all the people that have fought against Jerusalem; their flesh shall consume away while they stand upon their feet, and their eyes shall consume away in their holes, and their tongue shall consume away in their mouth. And it shall come to pass in that day, that a great tumult from the LORD shall be among them; and they shall lay hold every one on the hand of his neighbor, and his hand shall rise up against the hand of his neighbor. And Judah also shall fight at Jerusalem; and the wealth of all the heathen round about shall be gathered together, gold, and silver, and apparel, in great abundance. And so shall be the plague of the horse, of the mule, of the camel, and of the ass, and of all the beasts that shall be in these tents, as this plague.

And it shall come to pass, that every one that is left of all the nations which came against Jerusalem shall even go up from year to year to worship the KING, the LORD of hosts, and to keep the feast of tabernacles. And it shall be, that whoso will not come up of all the families of the Earth unto Jerusalem to worship the KING, the LORD of hosts, even upon them shall be no rain. And if the family of Egypt go not up, and come not, that have no rain; there shall be the plague, wherewith the LORD will smite the heathen that come not up to keep the feast of tabernacles. This shall be the punishment of Egypt, and the punishment of all nations that come not up to keep the feast of tabernacles.

In that day shall there be upon the bells of the horses, HOLINESS UNTO THE LORD; and the pots in the LORD's house shall be like the bowls before the altar. Yea, every pot in Jerusalem and in Judah shall be holiness unto the LORD of hosts: and all they that sacrifice shall come and take of them, and seethe therein: and in that day there shall be no more the Canaanite in the house of the LORD of hosts."

     Today's text describes when JESUS CHRIST finally establishes HIS millennial kingdom on Earth. What is detailed in Zechariah 14 cannot possibly be explained away as historical or metaphorical or as fanciful imagery pertaining to the spread of Christianity in the world. No, the reality of CHRIST ruling from HIS throne in Jerusalem is prophetic and literal, and it will surely come to pass in the future. "In that day" the LORD JESUS "shall be KING over all the Earth" (v.9 cf. Isaiah 2:2 pictured at the top of post; Daniel 2:34-35; Daniel 7:14 pictured above). Jerusalem will be elevated and enlarged far beyond its present dimensions (v.10). In that day, peace and safety will hold sway in a land where strife and injustice have reigned for centuries (v.11). What makes the difference ? The divine KING governs "with a rod of iron," Satan is bound, and righteousness rules (Revelation 2:27 pictured below; 12:5; 20:1-4).

     GOD will judge those countries that perpetually trouble Israel, and only a portion of them -- "every one that is left of all the nations" (v.16, those who, likewise, have received the KING with a right heart) -- will enter into the glorious reign of JESUS CHRIST (vv.12-16). All unbelievers will be taken away in judgment (Matthew 24:30-51). Notice also that Jerusalem will be the focal point of all worship throughout the Earth. No ecumenical movement will exist in the millennial kingdom. The Earth will only have "one LORD, and HIS name one" (v.9), and no other "faith groups" will remain. The people of every nation will go up yearly to the feast of tabernacles, and if they do not, they will be chastened accordingly (vv.16-19). "HOLINESS UNTO THE LORD" is the theme of this righteous, perfect, and glorious future administration (vv. 20-21). DWC

Your servant in CHRIST,

Julie

Copyright, FEATURE: A Daily Bible Study Guide.

Used  with  permission.    www.featoday.org

https://www.fivestarchristianministries.com/salvation

"MESSIAH"

 

     The holiest day in the Jewish year is Yom Kippur (Day of Atonement). It is known as "the Sabbath of Sabbaths." This is the day that the Jews ask the LORD to forgive them of their sins for the past year.

     However, what does the LORD want from us for the forgiveness of sins ? The answer can be found in the Bible, GOD's Holy WORD. "For on that day shall the Priest make an atonement for you, to cleanse you, that ye may be clean from all your sins before the LORD." (Leviticus 16:30). "And he shall wash his flesh with water in the Holy place, and put on his garments, and come forth, and offer his burnt offering, and the burnt offering of the people, and make an atonement for himself, and for the people." (Leviticus 16:24). "For the life of the flesh is in the blood: and I have given it to you upon the altar to make an atonement for your souls: for it is the blood that maketh an atonement for the soul." (Leviticus 17:11). A sacrifice is needed for our transgressions, and it was instituted to cover our sin.

     The Bible spoke of lambs, rams, turtledoves, pigeons, goats, or cattle being given for a sacrifice. In more recent times, the only form of animal sacrifice has been a chicken, even though the Bible never speaks of chickens as an acceptable sacrifice.

     We must now ask ourselves, " Why don't we sacrifice today ?" Is it possible that a perfect sacrifice has already been offered for the atonement of our sins. . .once and for all ? If this is the case, where does the Bible speak of such things ? In the book of Isaiah, the Bible states, "But HE was wounded for our transgressions, HE was bruised for our iniquities: the chastisement of our peace was upon HIM, and with HIS stripes we are healed. All we like sheep have gone astray; we have turned every one to his own way; and the LORD hath laid on HIM the iniquity of us all. . .Yet it please the LORD to bruise HIM, HE hath put HIM to grief: when THOU shalt make HIS soul an offering for sin, HE shall see HIS seed, HE shall prolong HIS days, and the pleasure of the LORD shall prosper in HIS hand." (Isaiah 53:5-6,10).

     Who is the LORD our GOD speaking about ? It is the MESSIAH ! "Ye worship ye know not what: we know what we worship: for salvation is of the Jews. But the hour cometh, and now is, when the true worshipers shall worship the FATHER in SPIRIT and in truth. The woman saith unto HIM, I know that MESSIAS cometh, which is called CHRIST: when HE is come, HE will tell us all things. JESUS saith unto her, I that speak unto thee AM HE."  (John 4:22-26). Therefore, if JESUS CHRIST were the perfect sacrifice for our sins, there is no need for the sacrificial system today.

     What must you do to have this sacrifice applied to your heart, thereby cleansing you from all your sins forever by the MESSIAH's blood ? First, the Bible says that you must repent (a turning to GOD from your sin) of your sins. "Therefore I will judge you, O house of Israel, every one according to his ways, saith the LORD GOD. Repent, and turn yourselves from all your transgressions; so iniquity shall not be your ruin. Cast away from you all your transgressions, whereby ye have transgressed; and make you a new heart and a new spirit: for why will ye die, O house of Israel ? For I have no pleasure in the death of him that dieth, saith the LORD GOD: wherefore turn yourselves, and live ye." (Ezekiel 18:30-32).

     Secondly, you must believe. "That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the LORD JESUS, and shalt believe in thine heart that GOD hath raised HIM from the dead, thou shalt be saved. For with the heart man believeth unto righteousness; and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation. For the Scripture saith, Whosoever believeth on HIM shall not be ashamed. For there is no difference between the Jew and the Greek: for the same LORD over all is rich unto all that call upon HIM." (Romans 10:9-12). "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. And not only so, but we also joy in GOD through our LORD JESUS CHRIST, by WHOM we have now received the atonement." (Romans 5:10-11).

     Thirdly, you must pray and ask the MESSIAH, JESUS CHRIST, into your heart. You can pray this simple prayer:

LORD, I know that I am a sinner, and I believe YOU died and rose again for me. I am trusting YOU to forgive me. Come into my heart and save me. Help me to live for YOU always. In JESUS' name I pray, AMEN.

HE will forgive your sins, once and for all. GOD gives you this promise, "For whosoever shall call upon the name of the LORD shall be saved." (Romans 10:13). The LORD JESUS said, "And I give unto them eternal life; and they shall never perish, neither shall any man pluck them out of MY hand." (John 10:28). Come to MESSIAH JESUS today !

Your servant in CHRIST,

Julie

https://www.fivestarchristianministries.com/salvation

"And the LORD My GOD Shall Come"

 

Zechariah 14:1-8 "Behold, the day of the LORD cometh, and thy spoil shall be divided in the midst of thee. For I will gather all nations against Jerusalem to battle; and the city shall be taken, and the housed rifled, and the women ravished; and half of the city shall go forth into captivity, and the residue of the people shall not be cut off from the city. Then shall the LORD go forth, and fight against those nations, as when he fought in the day of battle.

And HIS feet shall stand in that day upon the Mount of Olives, which is before Jerusalem on the east, and the Mount of Olives shall cleave in the midst thereof toward the east and toward the west, and there shall be a very great valley; and half of the mountain shall remove toward the north, and half of it toward the south. And ye shall flee to the valley of the mountains; for the valley of the mountains shall reach unto Azal: yea, ye shall flee, like as ye fled from before the earthquake in the days of Uzziah king of Judah: and the LORD my GOD shall come, and all the saints with THEE. And it shall come to pass in that day, that the light shall not be clear, nor dark: but it shall be one day which shall be known to the LORD, not day, nor night: but it shall come to pass, that at evening time it shall be light. And it shall be in that day, that living waters shall go out from Jerusalem; half of them toward the former sea, and half of them toward the hinder sea: in summer and in winter shall it be."

     "And it shall be said in that day, Lo, this is our GOD, we have waited for HIM, and HE will save us. . ." (Isaiah 25:9). That prophetic prayer will be answered when JESUS, "the LION of the tribe of Juda" (Revelation 5:5), returns from Heaven to bring to pass every promise HE has made to Israel. GOD's unconditional covenants regarding a people, a land, and a kingdom in which CHRIST sits upon the throne will be fulfilled. "HIS feet shall stand . . . upon the Mount of Olives" (vv.1-4). Just as HE actually, literally sat upon the colt, even so "in that day" Jerusalem shall rejoice and shout because the KING is coming (Zechariah 9:9 pictured above). The LORD JESUS CHRIST will deliver the waiting, watching remnant from the armies marshaled by the Antichrist against Jerusalem, and then HIS dominion, HIS earthly kingdom, will extend "to the ends of the Earth" (Zechariah 9:10).

     The long persecution of Israel will finally come to an end when this ultimate battle destroys every satanically inspired foe (vv.2-3 cf. Zechariah 12:2-3; Zephaniah 3:8 pictured above; Daniel 11:41-45). Notice also the physical changes in the topography of the land when "the LORD my GOD shall come, and all the saints with THEE [the Raptured church is among this number !]" (v.5): The Mount of Olives will divide in half, mountains will move out of their places, a valley will marvelously form, the duration of daylight will supernaturally extend, and the waters flowing from Jerusalem will greatly alter (vv. 4-8). So many other prophetic texts likewise reference this same day -- all of these precious promises of our LORD will, indeed, come to pass ! These literal events are going to take place, and the millennial kingdom of CHRIST will be established, just as the Scriptures declare. DWC

Your servant in CHRIST,

Julie

Copyright, FEATURE: A Daily Bible Study Guide.

Used  with  permission.    www.featoday.org

https://www.fivestarchristianministries.com/salvation

"A Remnant Shall Be Brought Through"

 

Zechariah 13:7-9 " Awake, O sword, against MY SHEPHERD, and against the MAN that is MY FELLOW, saith the LORD of hosts: smite the SHEPHERD, and the sheep shall be scattered: and I will turn mine hand upon the little ones. And it shall come to pass, that in all the land, saith the LORD, two parts therein shall be cut off and die; but the third shall be left therein. And I will bring the third part through the fire, and will refine them as silver is refined, and will try them as gold is tried: they shall call on MY name, and I will hear them: I will say, It is MY people: and they shall say, The LORD is my GOD."

     This final section of Zechariah 13 speaks of the blood-washed remnant, those of the twelve tribes of Israel who will survive the entire seven-year Tribulation and will, therefore, be alive and prepared to receive their MESSIAH when HE returns to destroy every foe and inaugurate HIS millennial reign upon the Earth. The SHEPHERD-KING, the GOOD SHEPHERD WHO was smitten by the sword of GOD's judgment on behalf of the sheep who had gone astray (John 10:11), is now the ONE WHO promises to "turn [HIS] hand upon the little ones" (v.7). How ? HE exercises HIS chastening hand that will prepare HIS chosen people for the promised blessing of the kingdom to come. "It shall come to pass, that in all the land" two thirds of Israel will fall by the sword, by martyrdom, and by the plagues of the Great Tribulation (v.8). The stiff-necked Israelite will be destroyed (Amos 9:10; Isaiah 1:9 both pictured above) while the Jew who trusts in JESUS CHRIST will become a Tribulation saint. If he is slain for his faith during this time, then he will await resurrection at the coming of CHRIST the KING (Revelation 6:9-11; 12:11,17).

     Only one third of Israel will "endure unto the end [of the Great Tribulation and] . . . shall be saved," or delivered, when the DELIVERER returns to Mount Zion (read the entire context of Matthew 24:13 pictured above, from which this quote was taken). This verse does not mean, as so many errantly teach today, that believers in the church age need to "endure unto the end" by their good works lest they lose their salvation in CHRIST. No, this text is speaking of the one-third remnant of the Jews who will be brought through the refining fire (v.9), at which time "all Israel shall be saved" (Romans 11:25-27). DWC

Your servant in CHRIST,

Julie

Copyright, FEATURE: A Daily Bible Study Guide.

Used  with  permission.    www.featoday.org

https://www.fivestarchristianministries.com/salvation