Some thoughts on Joseph, the Butler, the Baker, and Communion

While Joseph was in prison, Pharaoh’s Butler and Baker were also cast into prison. The Butler and the Baker both had dreams.

The Butler dreamed he was taking grapes and pressing them into Pharaoh’s cup. Joseph interpreted for him that in three days he would be restored to his position.

The Baker dreamed that birds ate all his bake goods that he had in a basket on top of his head. Joseph interpreted for him that in three days he would hang on a tree and die. (Genesis 40:1-19)

The Baker seems to represent the body of Jesus. The Butler seems to represent the blood and Spirit of Jesus.  Jesus’ flesh hung on a tree, died, and was buried. But in three days, His Spirit resurrected Him to life.

“I am the living bread which came down from heaven: if any man eat of this bread, he shall live for ever: and the bread that I will give is my flesh, which I will give for the life of the world”. (John 6.51)

And as they were eating, Jesus took bread, blessed and broke it, and gave it to them and said, "Take, eat; this is My body." (Mark 14:22)

Then he (Jesus) took the cup, and when he had given thanks he gave it to them, and they all drank from it. And he said to them, "This is My blood of the new covenant, which is shed for many. (Mark 14.23, 24)

'For the life of the flesh is in the blood… (Leviticus 17:11a)

Now it came to pass on the third day, which was Pharaoh’s birthday, that he made a feast for all his servants; and he lifted up the head of (summoned) the chief butler and of the chief baker among his servants.

And he restored the chief butler to his butlership again, and he placed the cup in Pharaoh’s hand.

But he hanged the chief baker, as Joseph had interpreted to them. (Genesis 40:20-22)

As the fulfillment of the dreams take place in three days, Jesus’ death, burial, and resurrection also take place in three days.

“Thus it is written, and thus it behoved Christ to suffer, and to rise from the dead the third day” (Luke 24.46)

After Joseph had interpreted the Butler’s dream, Joseph told him to remember him.

"But remember me when it is well with you, and please show kindness to me; make mention of me to Pharaoh, and get me out of this house (prison). (Genesis 40:14)

Then he restored the chief butler to his butlership again, and he gave the cup into Pharaoh's hand.… Yet the chief butler did not remember Joseph, but forgot him. (Genesis 40:21, 23)

Just as Joseph told the Butler to remember him, Jesus told his disciples to remember Him when they would take the cup with the fruit of the vine.

In the same manner He also took the cup after supper, saying, "This cup is the new covenant in My blood. This do, as often as you drink it, in remembrance of Me.” (1 Corinthians 11:25)

Then the chief butler spoke to Pharaoh, saying: "I remember my faults this day. (Genesis 41:9)

For two years, the Butler had forgotten to tell Pharaoh there was an innocent Hebrew bound in prison. Then, the Butler remembered his faults.

Before we take communion, we are to remember our faults.

“But let a man examine himself, and so let him eat of the bread, and drink of the cup”. (1 Corinthians 11:28)

When we repent, we crucify our flesh, just as the baker was hung on the tree. When we apply Jesus’ blood in water baptism for the remission of sins and receive the Holy Ghost, we are restored to God, as the Butler was restored to his position with Pharaoh.

In communion, we examine and judge ourselves, as the Butler remembered his faults.

When we remember Christ, He is loosed and elevated in our life to a position of power, salvation, and provision, as the Butler remembered Joseph, who ascended from a place of being bound, to rule all the land of Egypt, providing for and saving the world from famine.

When we repent of our sins and are baptized in Jesus name, we bury our old sinful nature. Jesus gives us a new, holy nature when He fills us with His Holy Spirit. The old sins that we committed are buried – and that’s where we need to leave them. They are dead to us. And what is dead needs to be left buried, not dug up and brought back to this life.

“God forbid. How shall we, that are dead to sin, live any longer therein?” – Romans 6:2 KJV

"Therefore we are buried with him by baptism into death: that like as Christ was raised up from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life." - Romans 6:4 KJV

“Knowing this, that our old man is crucified with him, that the body of sin might be destroyed, that henceforth we should not serve sin.” – Romans 6:6 KJV

"Who his own self bare our sins in his own body on the tree, that we, being dead to sins, should live unto righteousness: by whose stripes ye were healed." - 1 Peter 2:24 KJV

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

 “For ye are bought with a price: therefore glorify God in your body, and in your spirit, which are God's.” – 1Corinthians 6:20 KJV

"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 KJV

“Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new.” - 2Corinthians 5:17 KJV

The Dedication Part 4

One characteristic of the Gospel and the Kingdom of God is that it multiplies.

Multiplication of lights is also a characteristic of the Hanukkah celebration.

The Hanukkah lights are lit the first one the first night, the first one again and the second one the second night, the first and second ones again and third one on the third night, and so on. If you notice and count how many times lights are lit, it is not simply eight lights; rather it is a multiplication of lights.

Over the course of eight nights, there are lights lit thirty two times, steadily increasing the number and brightness of the Chanukah lights from night to night.

In this way, the Hanukkah lights are a metaphor of the Kingdom of God.

Jesus began with twelve disciples.

"And when he had called unto him his twelve disciples, he gave them power against unclean spirits, to cast them out, and to heal all manner of sickness and all manner of disease." - Matthew 10:1 KJV

On the Day of Pentecost, in the upper room there were one hundred twenty disciples.

"And in those days Peter stood up in the midst of the disciples… (the number of names together were about an hundred and twenty,)" - Acts 1:15 KJV

When they were all filled with the Holy Ghost, Peter preached the gospel and three thousand were added.

"Then they that gladly received his word were baptized: and the same day there were added unto them about three thousand souls." - Acts 2:41 KJV

Two chapters later, five thousand were added.

"Howbeit many of them which heard the word believed; and the number of the men was about five thousand." - Acts 4:4 KJV

And they kept multiplying.

"And the word of God increased; and the number of the disciples multiplied in Jerusalem greatly; and a great company of the priests were obedient to the faith." - Acts 6:7 KJV

"Then had the churches rest throughout all Judaea and Galilee and Samaria, and were edified; and walking in the fear of the Lord, and in the comfort of the Holy Ghost, were multiplied." - Acts 9:31 KJV

God’s Holy Spirit was poured out and the children of light were multiplied!

"But the word of God grew and multiplied." - Acts 12:24 KJV

The Dedication Part 3

It appears that Hanukkah, the Festival of Lights, is symbolic of Jesus Christ the Messiah.

There are two menorahs, the golden candlesticks in the Sanctuary, and the candlesticks of Hanukkah. The golden candlesticks found in the Tabernacle and then in the holy Temple in Jerusalem have seven branches, or lights. The pure oil that was used to fuel the flame in the golden candlesticks is symbolic of the Holy Spirit of God. The lamps were to burn continually, providing the only light within the Tabernacle. (Leviticus 24:2)

The second menorah of Hanukkah was to represent and celebrate the great miracle of oil. When the Syrian-Greek king Antiochus IV and his armies defiled the holy Temple in Jerusalem, all the oil but one small cruse was also defiled. After the Jews repaired, cleansed and rededicated the Temple, the single small cruse of oil miraculously burned for eight days until new pure olive oil could be found. To commemorate this miracle, a new light each night is lit on the menorah during the eight days of Hanukkah.

The numbers seven and eight are symbolic.

The number seven symbolizes perfection – perfection that is possible by natural means. The Holy Temple's menorah, which lit the natural world with the radiance of holiness, had seven branches.

The number eight symbolizes that which is beyond nature and its limited perfection, one step above the natural order. The miracle of Hanukkah included the great faith and courage not part of normal human nature to battle the Greeks that greatly outnumbered them. God gave the Jews a miracle higher than nature – lasting eight days with the miracle of oil – celebrated by lighting the eight-branched menorah on Hanukkah.

While the light of the menorah of the Holy Temple was concealed in darkness, the menorah of Hanukkah is mandated to be revealed to the world. It is to be set in a window facing a public thoroughfare or in a doorway so the world may see the light and the great miracle that it represents.

It is to be lit only after it becomes dark outside and must contain enough fuel at the time of the lighting to burn until 30 minutes after nightfall.

Jesus fulfills the light of the golden candlesticks that is concealed, with natural perfection and holiness, as well as fulfilling the light of the Hanukkah light that is revealed, beyond nature and above natural order.

Jesus is the Light.

"In him was life; and the life was the light of men. And the light shineth in darkness; and the darkness comprehended it not." - John 1:4-5 KJV

“I am come a light into the world, that whosoever believeth on me should not abide in darkness." - John 12:46 KJV

"The people which sat in darkness saw great light; and to them which sat in the region and shadow of death light is sprung up." - Matthew 4:16 KJV (Isaiah 9:2)

"To give light to them that sit in darkness and in the shadow of death, to guide our feet into the way of peace." - Luke 1:79 KJV

"A light to lighten the Gentiles, and the glory of thy people Israel." - Luke 2:32 KJV [“He is a light to reveal God to the nations, and he is the glory of your people Israel!” – NLT]

"And in the midst of the seven candlesticks one like unto the Son of man, clothed with a garment down to the foot, and girt about the paps with a golden girdle." - Revelation 1:13 KJV

"Then spake Jesus again unto them, saying, I am the light of the world: he that followeth me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life." - John 8:12 KJV

When we obey the gospel (Acts 2:38) we become a light – light in the Lord.

"Ye are the light of the world. A city that is set on an hill cannot be hid. Neither do men light a candle, and put it under a bushel, but on a candlestick; and it giveth light unto all that are in the house." - Matthew 5:14-15 KJV

"For ye were sometimes darkness, but now are ye light in the Lord: walk as children of light:" - Ephesians 5:8 KJV

The Dedication part 2

Jesus is the Light of the world

Simeon spoke of Jesus when He was a baby,

"A light to lighten the Gentiles, and the glory of thy people Israel." - Luke 2:32 KJV (NLT: He is a light to reveal God to the nations, and he is the glory of your people Israel!")

Jesus said, "I am the light of the world: he that followeth me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life." - John 8:12 KJV

The Bible speaks of Jesus being in Jerusalem at the time of Hanukkah, which the Bible calls “the feast of the dedication.” (John 10:22 KJV/NLT)

Hanukkah is also known today as the Festival of Lights.

There is much of Hanukkah that is symbolic of Christ and of the New Covenant.

The eight holders for the Hanukkah lights are for oil (preferably) or candles, just as the lights that were in the temple were fueled by pure olive oil, symbolic of God’s Holy Spirit. They are lit during the eight nights of Hanukkah.

The Hanukkah menorah has eight holders for oil or candles, plus an additional holder, set apart from the rest, for the Shamash, or “servant” candle. Each light of the menorah is ignited by the Shamash, or servant candle. It appears that Jesus represents this light.

To be kosher, the Shamash must be offset on a higher or lower plane than the main eight candles or oil lamps. Jesus revealed Himself to His disciples as a servant, while He is Almighty God that revealed Himself in flesh.

"He riseth from supper, and laid aside his garments; and took a towel, and girded himself. After that he poureth water into a bason, and began to wash the disciples' feet, and to wipe them with the towel wherewith he was girded. ... Peter saith unto him, Thou shalt never wash my feet. Jesus answered him, If I wash thee not, thou hast no part with me. ... If I then, your Lord and Master, have washed your feet; ye also ought to wash one another's feet." - John 13:4-5, 8, 14 KJV

"But made himself of no reputation, and took upon him the form of a servant, and was made in the likeness of men:" - Philippians 2:7 KJV

God came in the form of man to redeem man from sin so that He could pour out His Spirit on all flesh.

"And ye shall know that I am in the midst of Israel, and that I am the LORD your God, and none else: and my people shall never be ashamed. And it shall come to pass afterward, that I will pour out my spirit upon all flesh; and your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, your old men shall dream dreams, your young men shall see visions: and also upon the servants and upon the handmaids in those days will I pour out my spirit." - Joel 2:27-29 KJV

The Light of the world would pour out His Holy Spirit on all flesh, so that they could be light in the Lord.

"For ye were sometimes darkness, but now are ye light in the Lord: walk as children of light:" - Ephesians 5:8 KJV

The Dedication

This year, the Gregorian calendar day of the 25^th of December fell on the Jewish calendar day of the 25th of Kislev. There were several events that occurred on the 25^th of Kislev in Bible history.

On this day in 1312 BCE (BCE is the same as BC) the Tabernacle in the wilderness was completed (although not assembled until 3 months later - dedicated on the 1st of Nissan).

On this day in 139 BCE the Temple was repaired, cleansed and rededicated after being defiled by the Syrian-Greek king Antiochus IV and his armies, who had tried to forcefully uproot the beliefs and practices of Judaism from the people of Israel: Jewish worship was forbidden; the scrolls of the Law were confiscated and burned. Sabbath rest, circumcision and the dietary laws were prohibited under penalty of death.

All the Temple's oil had also been defiled by the pagan invaders. When the Jews went to re-light the Temple's Golden Candlesticks, they could only find one small cruse of olive oil that was ritually pure. Miraculously, the one-day supply burned for eight days, until new, pure oil could be obtained. It was because of this miracle that the 8-day festival of Hanukkah was instituted. For 8 nights, candles are lit to recall and publicize this great miracle. Hanukkah is mentioned in the New Testament as the feast of dedication. The Hebrew word Hanukkah means “dedication,” because it celebrates the rededication of the Holy Temple.

"And it was at Jerusalem the feast of the dedication, and it was winter." - John 10:22 KJV [Another translation: “It was now winter, and Jesus was in Jerusalem at the time of Hanukkah, the Festival of Dedication.” – John 10:22 NLT]

Jesus compared the Temple to His body. When speaking of the Holy Temple in Jerusalem, He called it His Father’s house.

"And the Jews' Passover was at hand, and Jesus went up to Jerusalem, and found in the temple those that sold oxen and sheep and doves, and the changers of money sitting: and when he had made a scourge of small cords, he drove them all out of the temple, and the sheep, and the oxen; and poured out the changers' money, and overthrew the tables; and said unto them that sold doves, Take these things hence; make not my Father's house an house of merchandise.

“And his disciples remembered that it was written, The zeal of thine house hath eaten me up.

“Then answered the Jews and said unto him, What sign shewest thou unto us, seeing that thou doest these things?

“Jesus answered and said unto them, Destroy this temple, and in three days I will raise it up.

“Then said the Jews, Forty and six years was this temple in building, and wilt thou rear it up in three days? But he spake of the temple of his body.

“When therefore he was risen from the dead, his disciples remembered that he had said this unto them; and they believed the scripture, and the word which Jesus had said." - John 2:13-22 KJV

Adam was in the beginning. He was the first man.

"Wherefore, as by one man sin entered into the world, and death by sin; and so death passed upon all men, for that all have sinned:" - Romans 5:12 KJV

Jesus is referred to as last Adam. The first Adam was defiled by sin. The last Adam – Christ - brought holiness back to the temple of man. Because of the gospel, man could once again be undefiled as first Adam was before he sinned. (John 10:22,36, Hebrews 7:26, Acts 2:38) Jesus died for our sins, was buried, and rose again the third day. (1Corinthians 15:1-4) His body is the temple of God. When we repent, are baptized in Jesus name for the remission of our sins, and receive the gift of the Holy Ghost, we become a holy temple of God.

"And so it is written, The first man Adam was made a living soul; the last Adam was made a quickening spirit." - 1 Corinthians 15:45 KJV

"Know ye not that ye are the temple of God, and that the Spirit of God dwelleth in you? If any man defile the temple of God, him shall God destroy; for the temple of God is holy, which temple ye are." - 1 Corinthians 3:16-17 KJV

"What? know ye not that your body is the temple of the Holy Ghost which is in you, which ye have of God, and ye are not your own?" - 1 Corinthians 6:19 KJV

"And what agreement hath the temple of God with idols? for ye are the temple of the living God; as God hath said, I will dwell in them, and walk in them; and I will be their God, and they shall be my people." - 2 Corinthians 6:16 KJV

What is the Son of God? Part 3

The Son of God is the Temple of God.

"Jesus answered and said unto them, Destroy this temple, and in three days I will raise it up. Then said the Jews, Forty and six years was this temple in building, and wilt thou rear it up in three days? But he spake of the temple of his body. When therefore he was risen from the dead, his disciples remembered that he had said this unto them; and they believed the scripture, and the word which Jesus had said." - John 2:19-22 KJV

The Son of God, which is the flesh and blood of God, is the temple of God. The Spirit of God resides within the temple of Jesus’ body.

"To wit, that God was in Christ, reconciling the world unto himself, not imputing their trespasses unto them; and hath committed unto us the word of reconciliation." - 2 Corinthians 5:19 KJV

When we take on the name of Jesus by water baptism in Jesus name for the remission of our sins, and when we are filled with the Spirit of Jesus, the Holy Ghost, WE BECOME God’s holy temple.

"Know ye not that ye are the temple of God, and that the Spirit of God dwelleth in you? If any man defile the temple of God, him shall God destroy; for the temple of God is holy, which temple ye are." - 1 Corinthians 3:16-17 KJV

"Flee fornication. Every sin that a man doeth is without the body; but he that committeth fornication sinneth against his own body. What? know ye not that your body is the temple of the Holy Ghost which is in you, which ye have of God, and ye are not your own? For ye are bought with a price: therefore glorify God in your body, and in your spirit, which are God's." - 1 Corinthians 6:18-20 KJV

When we are baptized in Jesus name and filled with His Spirit, we become the temple of the living God.

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

Jesus was born of a woman as the only begotten son of God. We are not born a son of God, but must be BORN AGAIN, of water and of the Spirit, to BECOME a son of God. See next part 4…

"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. For 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 2:38-39 KJV

What is the Son of God? Part 2

Isaiah prophesied of the SON, revealing that He is THE MIGHTY GOD, THE EVERLASTING FATHER.

"For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty God, THE EVERLASTING FATHER, The Prince of Peace.

"Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me. If ye had known me, ye should have known my Father also: and from henceforth ye know him, and have seen him.

“Philip saith unto him, Lord, shew us the Father, and it sufficeth us [and it will satisfy us].

“Jesus saith unto him, Have I been so long time with you, and yet hast thou not known me, Philip? he that hath seen me hath seen the Father; and how sayest thou then, Shew us the Father?

“Believest thou not that I am in the Father, and the Father in me? the words that I speak unto you I speak not of myself: but the Father that dwelleth in me, he doeth the works.

“Believe me that I am in the Father, and the Father in me: or else believe me for the very works' sake." - John 14:6-11 KJV

JESUS is the Father’s name. The Father came in the form of man when He came to dwell among His people. He came in the name JESUS. This is why Jesus told Philip, “He that hath seen me hath seen the Father.” This is also why Jesus said, “I am come in my Father’s name.”

"I am come in my Father's name, and ye receive me not: if another shall come in his own name, him ye will receive." - John 5:43 KJV

The name JESUS is a combination of “Yahweh” and “Salvation.” It means, The LORD is Salvation, or LORD Savior.

The Father came in the form of man to save His people from their sins.

"And 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 KJV

What is the Son of God? Part 1

We are approaching the day that the world celebrates as the birth of the Son of God. What is the Son of God? Who is the Son of God?

Isaiah prophesied of the son of God.

"For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace.

“Of the increase of his government and peace there shall be no end, upon the throne of David, and upon his kingdom, to order it, and to establish it with judgment and with justice from henceforth even for ever. The zeal of the LORD of hosts will perform this." - Isaiah 9:6-7 KJV

Isaiah tells us this son has a human birth, yet He is the mighty God, the everlasting Father.

God is a Spirit. (John 4:24) The Son of God is the human temple that the Spirit of God dwells in.

The Son of God was born a baby, filled with the Spirit of God from conception. The Son of God began with conception in the womb. The Son of God became the physical dwelling place of God to walk among His people for the purpose of setting up His kingdom and redeeming humanity from their sins. (John 1:11,14, John 2:19-21, Titus 2:14, John 3:5, John 3:26, see below).

 "And in the sixth month the angel Gabriel was sent from God unto a city of Galilee, named Nazareth, to a virgin espoused to a man whose name was Joseph, of the house of David; and the virgin's name was Mary. ...

“And the angel said unto her, Fear not, Mary: for thou hast found favour with God. And, behold, thou shalt conceive in thy womb, and bring forth a son, and shalt call his name JESUS. He shall be great, and shall be called the Son of the Highest: and the Lord God shall give unto him the throne of his father David: and he shall reign over the house of Jacob for ever; and of his kingdom there shall be no end." - Luke 1:26-27, 30-33 KJV

Who is the Son of God? JESUS is His name. JESUS is the name of the Spirit of God as well as the body of God. The Spirit of God inhabited a body when He was made flesh and dwelt among humanity. (John 1:1, 14, 1Timothy 3:16)

JESUS – the mighty God, the everlasting Father – would fulfill Isaiah’s prophecy. The Holy Ghost, which is the Spirit of God, would cause conception in the virgin’s womb.

"Then said Mary unto the angel, How shall this be, seeing I know not a man? And the angel answered and said unto her, The Holy Ghost shall come upon thee, and the power of the Highest shall overshadow thee: therefore also that holy thing which shall be born of thee shall be called the Son of God." - Luke 1:34-35 KJV

Matthew also recorded the birth of the Son of God. “Christ” means “anointed.”

"Now the birth of Jesus Christ was on this wise:

”When as his mother Mary was espoused to Joseph, before they came together, she was found with child of the Holy Ghost. Then Joseph her husband, being a just man, and not willing to make her a publick example, was minded to put her away privily. [Another translation: “Because Joseph her husband was faithful to the law, and yet did not want to expose her to public disgrace, he had in mind to divorce her quietly.” (It appears he assumed she had committed adultery.)]

“But while he thought on these things, behold, the angel of the Lord appeared unto him in a dream, saying, Joseph, thou son of David, fear not to take unto thee Mary thy wife: for that which is conceived in her is of the Holy Ghost. And she shall bring forth a son, and thou shalt call his name JESUS: for he shall save his people from their sins.

“Now all this was done, that it might be fulfilled which was spoken of the Lord by the prophet, saying, Behold, a virgin shall be with child, and shall bring forth a son, and they shall call his name Emmanuel, which being interpreted is, God with us. [Isaiah 7:14]

“Then Joseph being raised from sleep did as the angel of the Lord had bidden him, and took unto him his wife: and knew her not [kept her a virgin] till she had brought forth her firstborn son: and he called his name JESUS." - Matthew 1:18-25 KJV

The Light

"In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. The same was in the beginning with God. All things were made by him; and without him was not any thing made that was made. In him was life; and the life was the light of men.

... He was in the world, and the world was made by him, and the world knew him not. He came unto his own, and his own received him not. 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: which were born, not of blood, nor of the will of the flesh, nor of the will of man, but of God. And the Word was made 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." - John 1:1-4, 10-14 KJV

God revealed the light of His mercy when He was made flesh and dwelt among us. He is the Light.

"Forasmuch then as the children are partakers of flesh and blood, he also himself likewise took part of the same; that through death he might destroy him that had the power of death, that is, the devil; and deliver them who through fear of death were all their lifetime subject to bondage." - Hebrews 2:14-15 KJV

"…Who hath abolished death, and hath brought life and immortality to light through the gospel:" - 2 Timothy 1:10 KJV

The light of Jesus appeared to Saul of Tarsus (that became Paul the apostle). Paul became a preacher of the gospel to the Gentiles.

"Delivering thee from the people, and from the Gentiles, unto whom now I send thee, to open their eyes, and to turn them from darkness to light, and from the power of Satan unto God, that they may receive forgiveness of sins, and inheritance among them which are sanctified by faith that is in me." - Acts 26:17-18 KJV

The gospel brought the Gentiles from the darkness of condemnation to the light of God’s mercy by the forgiveness of their sins by repentance, baptism in Jesus name, and the gift of the Holy Ghost. By God’s mercy, found through the gospel, the Gentiles also became God’s chosen people.

"But ye are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, an holy nation, a peculiar ["(God's own) possession"] people; that ye should shew forth the praises of him who hath called you out of darkness into his marvellous light: which in time past were not a people, but are now the people of God: which had not obtained mercy, but now have obtained mercy." - 1 Peter 2:9-10 KJV

"For ye were sometimes darkness, but now are ye light in the Lord: walk as children of light:" - Ephesians 5:8 KJV

How do we obey the Gospel to become children of light?

"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. For 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 2:38-39 KJV

Jesus Our Horn of Salvation

Zacharias prophesied of Christ when his son John the Baptist was born.

"And his father Zacharias was filled with the Holy Ghost, and prophesied, saying, Blessed be the Lord God of Israel; for he hath visited and redeemed his people," - Luke 1:67-68 KJV

God overshadowed the young woman Mary making Himself a body so He could visit His people, dwelling among them. God did this so He could shed His own blood for the remission of their sins and redeem them. (Acts 20:28, Leviticus 17:11, Matthew 26:28, Hebrews 9:22)

"And hath raised up an horn of salvation for us in the house of his servant David;" - Luke 1:69 KJV

Horn: of an ox, a goat, or a ram. It is a metaphor of strength and power. The first mention of the Hebrew word for horn is Genesis 22:13, when God provided Himself a lamb for a burnt offering to take the place of Isaac, who was offered by his father Abraham as a test by God.

The shofar, which is a ram’s horn, is used as a call of repentance and a reminder of the love of God for His people. It is a symbol of the ram that replaced Isaac on the altar. A ram is a male sheep.

There is another Hebrew word for ram’s horn, “yovel”. This word is the same Hebrew word for Jubilee: “the Jubilee year, the fiftieth year of the Shemittah cycle, during which all properties return to their original owners and all slaves are freed (see Leviticus 25:8-16)”.

Jesus is the horn of salvation. He is the power of salvation. Jesus is God our Savior. Jesus is the ram that took Isaac’s place as a sacrifice. Jesus took our place as a sacrifice. Jesus is our Jubilee. We were slaves to sin and Jesus sets us free. Jesus was born as mankind of the house of David.

We are set free from sin when we turn our back on sin by repentance, our sins are buried with Jesus when we are baptized in Jesus name for the remission of our sins, and we are filled with the power of Jesus to overcome sin when we receive the gift of His Holy Ghost.

"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. For 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 2:38-39 KJV

The Star

While the shepherds came to worship Jesus at his birth, finding him in a manger, the wise men apparently came to worship at a later time.

The Bible records, “And when they were come into the house, they saw the young child with Mary his mother”.

They worshiped Jesus in a house, where he is described as a young child. This was perhaps around the age of one, for Herod “slew all the children…from two years old and under, according to the time which he had diligently enquired of the wise men.”

Balaam, a gentile prophet, had prophesied of a Star. This star is Jesus the Messiah.

"I shall see him, but not now: I shall behold him, but not nigh: there shall come a Star out of Jacob, and a Sceptre shall rise out of Israel…" - Numbers 24:17 KJV

This is the account of the wise men and the star:

"Now when Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judaea in the days of Herod the king, behold, there came wise men from the east to Jerusalem, Saying, Where is he that is born King of the Jews? for we have seen his star in the east, and are come to worship him.

“When Herod the king had heard these things, he was troubled, and all Jerusalem with him. And when he had gathered all the chief priests and scribes of the people together, he demanded of them where Christ should be born. And they said unto him, In Bethlehem of Judaea: for thus it is written by the prophet,

“And thou Bethlehem, in the land of Juda, art not the least among the princes of Juda: for out of thee shall come a Governor, that shall rule my people Israel.

“Then Herod, when he had privily called the wise men, enquired of them diligently what time the star appeared. And he sent them to Bethlehem, and said, Go and search diligently for the young child; and when ye have found him, bring me word again, that I may come and worship him also.

“When they had heard the king, they departed; and, lo, the star, which they saw in the east, went before them, till it came and stood over where the young child was.

“When they saw the star, they rejoiced with exceeding great joy.

“And when they were come into the house, they saw the young child with Mary his mother, and fell down, and worshipped him: and when they had opened their treasures, they presented unto him gifts; gold, and frankincense, and myrrh.

“And being warned of God in a dream that they should not return to Herod, they departed into their own country another way.

“And when they were departed, behold, the angel of the Lord appeareth to Joseph in a dream, saying,

“Arise, and take the young child and his mother, and flee into Egypt, and be thou there until I bring thee word: for Herod will seek the young child to destroy him.

“When he arose, he took the young child and his mother by night, and departed into Egypt: and was there until the death of Herod: that it might be fulfilled which was spoken of the Lord by the prophet, saying, Out of Egypt have I called my son.

“Then Herod, when he saw that he was mocked of the wise men, was exceeding wroth, and sent forth, and slew all the children that were in Bethlehem, and in all the coasts thereof, from two years old and under, according to the time which he had diligently enquired of the wise men.

Then was fulfilled that which was spoken by Jeremy the prophet, saying,

“In Rama was there a voice heard, lamentation, and weeping, and great mourning, Rachel weeping for her children, and would not be comforted, because they are not." - Matthew 2:1-18 KJV

Jesus is “the bright and morning star”.

"I Jesus have sent mine angel to testify unto you these things in the churches. I am the root and the offspring of David, and the bright and morning star." - Revelation 22:16 KJV

Shepherds – part 1

The shepherds were amongst their flock, watching over them in the night.

"And there were in the same country shepherds abiding in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night. And, lo, the angel of the Lord came upon them, and the glory of the Lord shone round about them: and they were sore afraid. And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord." - Luke 2:8-11 KJV

When the Lord spoke to them, the Shechinah (Holy Ghost) surrounded them. The heavenly host praised God for His great mercy: The Creator of the universe had humbled Himself to dwell among His creation. (Philippians 2:6-11).

The LORD, the Great Shepherd, had come as a Lamb to take away the sin of the world. (John 1:29).

His body, His tabernacle among men, would be a place of sacrifice upon which He had placed His Name, and where His Spirit would dwell. He would bring peace between Himself and humanity – reconciliation – by His great sacrifice. (Colossians 1:14-23)

The birth of the LORD Savior was with a sign:

"And this shall be a sign unto you; Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger." - Luke 2:12 KJV

“Manger” is another word for “crib.” (Thayer’s Greek Lexicon)

"The ox knoweth his owner, and the ass his master's crib: but Israel doth not know, my people doth not consider." - Isaiah 1:3 KJV

"He was in the world, and the world was made by him, and the world knew him not. He came unto his own, and his own received him not.

“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: which were born, not of blood, nor of the will of the flesh, nor of the will of man, but of God." - John 1:10-13 KJV

The shepherds were witnesses – they did not delay. They then made known abroad the message that they not only had heard, but that they had witnessed for themselves. The shepherds delivered the message. Those that heard wondered at the message. Then the shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for the good news that they had heard AND witnessed.

Just as pastors –  shepherds of the chief Shepherd – taking the Word to the world that they not only have heard but have witnessed in their own life for themselves.

"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 KJV

Be born of God – of water and of the Spirit – water baptized in Jesus name and filled with His Spirit, the Holy Ghost.

Hear the Word – obey the Word – experience it for yourself!

Church!

Jesus - The Prince of Peace

"Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid." - John 14:27 KJV

The peace Jesus left for His disciples was reconciliation back to God. Only the son of God - which is the flesh of God - could give this peace. God robed Himself in flesh to dwell among men, then gave His life on the cross, shedding His blood to redeem man back to Himself.

"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 KJV

"For it pleased the Father that in him should all fulness dwell; and, having made peace through the blood of his cross, by him to reconcile all things unto himself; by him, I say, whether they be things in earth, or things in heaven. And you, that were sometime alienated and enemies in your mind by wicked works, yet now hath he reconciled In the body of his flesh through death, to present you holy and unblameable and unreproveable in his sight:" - Colossians 1:19-22 KJV

The fulfillment of the peace Jesus gave is His Spirit, the Holy Ghost. Because Jesus paid the price of reconciliation by His blood, we are able to receive His Holy Spirit and become at one with God. No more separation because of sin – we are reunited with God.

"Then said Jesus to them again, Peace be unto you: as my Father hath sent me, even so send I you. And when he had said this, he breathed on them, and saith unto them, Receive ye the Holy Ghost: whose soever sins ye remit, they are remitted unto them; and whose soever sins ye retain, they are retained." - John 20:21-23 KJV

Jesus brought peace through the blood of His cross to reconcile man back to Himself. On the Day of Pentecost He returned with the final fulfillment of His peace - His Holy Ghost.

"And when the day of Pentecost was fully come, they were all with one accord in one place. ... And they were all filled with the Holy Ghost, and began to speak with other tongues, as the Spirit gave them utterance." - Acts 2:1, 4 KJV

By applying His blood by water baptism in Jesus name, our sins are remitted, and we may receive the Gift of the Holy Ghost, finding peace with God.

"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. For 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 2:38-39 KJV

As the disciples were to receive Jesus’ peace, He sent them to preach His peace to others, Acts 2:38.

"To wit, that God was in Christ, reconciling the world unto himself, not imputing their trespasses unto them; and hath committed unto us the word of reconciliation. Now then we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God did beseech you by us: we pray you in Christ's stead, be ye reconciled to God." - 2 Corinthians 5:19-20 KJV

Gold, Frankincense, and Myrrh part 4

What is frankincense?

Frankincense is a white resin burned as fragrant incense. It is first mentioned in the Bible in Exodus 30:34 when the LORD told Moses to make a perfume, pure and holy, to put before the Ark of the Covenant in the Tabernacle, where the LORD would meet with him. The frankincense along with three fragrant spices, was to be only for the LORD; anyone that would make the perfume for themselves to smell were to be cut off from his people.

"And the LORD said unto Moses, Take unto thee sweet spices, stacte, and onycha, and galbanum; these sweet spices with pure frankincense: of each shall there be a like weight: and thou shalt make it a perfume, a confection after the art of the apothecary, tempered together, pure and holy: and thou shalt beat some of it very small, and put of it before the testimony in the tabernacle of the congregation, where I will meet with thee: it shall be unto you most holy. And as for the perfume which thou shalt make, ye shall not make to yourselves according to the composition thereof: it shall be unto thee holy for the LORD. Whosoever shall make like unto that, to smell thereto, shall even be cut off from his people." - Exodus 30:34-38 KJV

From these verses it appears that frankincense as one of the three gifts of the wise men to the young child Jesus was symbolic that Jesus is the LORD incarnate.

Frankincense was also placed on meal offerings to the LORD.

"And when any will offer a meat offering unto the LORD, his offering shall be of fine flour; and he shall pour oil upon it, and put frankincense thereon: and he shall bring it to Aaron's sons the priests: and he shall take thereout his handful of the flour thereof, and of the oil thereof, with all the frankincense thereof; and the priest shall burn the memorial of it upon the altar, to be an offering made by fire, of a sweet savour unto the LORD: and the remnant of the meat offering shall be Aaron's and his sons': it is a thing most holy of the offerings of the LORD made by fire." - Leviticus 2:1-3 KJV

As the remnant of this offering with frankincense was for the high priest Aaron and his sons, it points to Jesus being our High Priest, bringing the offering of His own blood to atone for our sins.

"But Christ being come an high priest of good things to come, by a greater and more perfect tabernacle, not made with hands, that is to say, not of this building; neither by the blood of goats and calves, but by his own blood he entered in once into the holy place, having obtained eternal redemption for us." - Hebrews 9:11-12 KJV

Frankincense was also placed on the shewbread, which was placed in the holy place by the altar of incense and the golden menorah. The shewbread was renewed every week and would be eaten by the priests. It is said that the frankincense gives the shewbread a bitter taste.

Here we see the frankincense pointing to the bitterness of suffering of Christ, the Bread of Life that was offered for our sins.

"I am the living bread which came down from heaven: if any man eat of this bread, he shall live for ever: and the bread that I will give is my flesh, which I will give for the life of the world." - John 6:51 KJV

"From that time forth began Jesus to shew unto his disciples, how that he must go unto Jerusalem, and suffer many things of the elders and chief priests and scribes, and be killed, and be raised again the third day. ... Then said Jesus unto his disciples, If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me. For whosoever will save his life shall lose it: and whosoever will lose his life for my sake shall find it." - Matthew 16:21, 24-25 KJV

Jesus experienced the bitterness of extreme pain and suffering of lashes and then crucifixion. We are to follow Him, as the priests would eat the shewbread with the bitter frankincense, and crucify our sinful desires with Christ.

 "Knowing this, that our old man [our old sinful lifestyle] is crucified with him, that the body of sin might be destroyed, that henceforth we should not serve sin." - Romans 6:6 KJV

"And they that are Christ's have crucified the flesh with the affections and lusts." - Galatians 5:24 KJV [Those who belong to Christ Jesus have nailed the passions and desires of their sinful nature to his cross and crucified them there. NLT]

We do this by covenanting with Jesus.

"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. For 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 2:38-39 KJV

Gold, Frankincense, and Myrrh part 3

Besides being used in the holy anointing oil, Myrrh is mentioned in the book of Esther as oil of myrrh, used as purifying before she would go in to King Ahasuerus. In this book, it appears Esther is symbolic of the church – the Bride of Christ – and the King as Jesus.

Myrrh was also mentioned at the time of Jesus’ suffering and death. As one of the three gifts given to Jesus in honor of His birth, it symbolized Jesus’ supreme love for His people, because of His willingness to suffer and die for His Bride.

"Husbands, love your wives, even as Christ also loved the church, and gave himself for it; that he might sanctify and cleanse it with the washing of water by the word, that he might present it to himself a glorious church, not having spot, or wrinkle, or any such thing; but that it should be holy and without blemish." - Ephesians 5:25-27 KJV

In the Song of Solomon, Myrrh is used in describing the love of “my beloved.” Song of Solomon is said to be a love story of God and His people.

When the fullness of time came, God put on flesh to die for His beloved, redeeming her back to Himself from sin and death.

"And they compel one Simon a Cyrenian, who passed by, coming out of the country, the father of Alexander and Rufus, to bear his cross. And they bring him unto the place Golgotha, which is, being interpreted, The place of a skull. And they gave him to drink wine mingled with myrrh: but he received it not." - Mark 15:21-23 KJV

Myrrh is also mentioned at Christ’s burial.

"And after this Joseph of Arimathaea, being a disciple of Jesus, but secretly for fear of the Jews, besought Pilate that he might take away the body of Jesus: and Pilate gave him leave. He came therefore, and took the body of Jesus. And there came also Nicodemus, which at the first came to Jesus by night, and brought a mixture of myrrh and aloes, about an hundred pound weight. Then took they the body of Jesus, and wound it in linen clothes with the spices, as the manner of the Jews is to bury." - John 19:38-40 KJV

Nicodemus is the ruler of the Jews that was told by Jesus, You must be born again to see the kingdom of God. (See also: John 7:50-51 John 3:1-21, John 7:50-52, John 19:38-42).

The born again experience is accomplished by repentance, water baptism in Jesus name for the remission of sins, and receiving the gift of the Holy Ghost (Acts 2:38). This is “obeying the gospel” of Jesus’ death, burial, and resurrection.

"And said unto them, 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 KJV

"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. For 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 2:38-39 KJV

Gold, Frankincense, and Myrrh part 2

Myrrh was used in the Old Testament in holy ointment used to anoint the tabernacle and the priests.

"Moreover the LORD spake unto Moses, saying, Take thou also unto thee principal spices, of pure myrrh five hundred shekels, and of sweet cinnamon half so much, even two hundred and fifty shekels, and of sweet calamus two hundred and fifty shekels, and of cassia five hundred shekels, after the shekel of the sanctuary, and of oil olive an hin: and thou shalt make it an oil of holy ointment, an ointment compound after the art of the apothecary: it shall be an holy anointing oil.

“And thou shalt anoint the tabernacle of the congregation therewith, and the ark of the testimony, and the table and all his vessels, and the candlestick and his vessels, and the altar of incense, and the altar of burnt offering with all his vessels, and the laver and his foot. And thou shalt sanctify them, that they may be most holy: whatsoever toucheth them shall be holy.

And thou shalt anoint Aaron and his sons, and consecrate them, that they may minister unto me in the priest's office. And thou shalt speak unto the children of Israel, saying, This shall be an holy anointing oil unto me throughout your generations." - Exodus 30:22-31 KJV

The Hebrew word for “anointing” is the root word of “Moshiach,” which is translated in the King James Version of the Bible meaning “anointed, anointed one - as of the Messiah, Messianic prince; as of the king of Israel; as of the high priest of Israel; as of Cyrus; as of the patriarchs as anointed kings” From: Strong’s Outline of Biblical Usuage.

As Myrrh was used in the holy anointing oil, it was one of the three gifts given to Jesus as gifts by the wise men.

The holy anointing oil was only to be used on the tabernacle and the priests.

The body of Jesus is the tabernacle of God’s Spirit.

"Jesus answered and said unto them, Destroy this temple, and in three days I will raise it up. Then said the Jews, Forty and six years was this temple in building, and wilt thou rear it up in three days? But he spake of the temple of his body." - John 2:19-21 KJV

"If ye had known me, ye should have known my Father also: and from henceforth ye know him, and have seen him. Philip saith unto him, Lord, shew us the Father, and it sufficeth us. Jesus saith unto him, Have I been so long time with you, and yet hast thou not known me, Philip? he that hath seen me hath seen the Father; and how sayest thou then, Shew us the Father? Believest thou not that I am in the Father, and the Father in me? the words that I speak unto you I speak not of myself: but the Father that dwelleth in me, he doeth the works." - John 14:7-10 KJV

All of the parts of the tabernacle was anointed.

"And thou shalt sanctify them, that they may be most holy: whatsoever toucheth them shall be holy." - Exodus 30:29 KJV

Jesus Christ is the anointed tabernacle.

"And Jesus said, Somebody hath touched me: for I perceive that virtue is gone out of me. And when the woman saw that she was not hid, she came trembling, and falling down before him, she declared unto him before all the people for what cause she had touched him, and how she was healed immediately." - Luke 8:46-47 KJV

Jesus is our High Priest, offering His body as it is the Lamb of God, a holy sacrifice to pay the price of our sins.

"The next day John seeth Jesus coming unto him, and saith, Behold the Lamb of God, which taketh away the sin of the world." - John 1:29 KJV

"By the which will we are sanctified through the offering of the body of Jesus Christ once for all." - Hebrews 10:10 KJV

"But Christ being come an high priest of good things to come, by a greater and more perfect tabernacle, not made with hands, that is to say, not of this building; neither by the blood of goats and calves, but by his own blood he entered in once into the holy place, having obtained eternal redemption for us." - Hebrews 9:11-12 KJV

"Take heed therefore unto yourselves, and to all the flock, over the which the Holy Ghost hath made you overseers, to feed the church of God, which he hath purchased with his own blood." - Acts 20:28 KJV

Gold, Frankincense, and Myrrh part 1

"Now when Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judaea in the days of Herod the king, behold, there came wise men from the east to Jerusalem, Saying, Where is he that is born King of the Jews? for we have seen his star in the east, and are come to worship him." - Matthew 2:1-2 KJV

The three gifts that the wise men brought Jesus spoke of His identity, His mission, and His future.

One of the gifts the wise men brought to Jesus was gold – gold for a king.

"When Herod the king had heard these things, he was troubled, and all Jerusalem with him. And when he had gathered all the chief priests and scribes of the people together, he demanded of them where Christ should be born. And they said unto him, In Bethlehem of Judaea: for thus it is written by the prophet, And thou Bethlehem, in the land of Juda, art not the least among the princes of Juda: for out of thee shall come a Governor, that shall rule my people Israel." - Matthew 2:3-6 KJV

The prophet Micah foretold of the Messiah – the Father manifest in flesh – coming out of Bethlehem to rule Israel.

"But thou, Bethlehem Ephratah, though thou be little among the thousands of Judah, yet out of thee shall he come forth unto me that is to be ruler in Israel; whose goings forth have been from of old, from everlasting." - Micah 5:2 KJV

Isaiah prophesied this king would be the Mighty God, born as a child, to rule and reign upon the throne of David.

"For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace. Of the increase of his government and peace there shall be no end, upon the throne of David, and upon his kingdom, to order it, and to establish it with judgment and with justice from henceforth even for ever. The zeal of the LORD of hosts will perform this." - Isaiah 9:6-7 KJV

"Then Herod, when he had privily called the wise men, enquired of them diligently what time the star appeared. And he sent them to Bethlehem, and said, Go and search diligently for the young child; and when ye have found him, bring me word again, that I may come and worship him also.

“When they had heard the king, they departed; and, lo, the star, which they saw in the east, went before them, till it came and stood over where the young child was. When they saw the star, they rejoiced with exceeding great joy. And when they were come into the house, they saw the young child with Mary his mother, and fell down, and worshipped him: and when they had opened their treasures, they presented unto him gifts; gold, and frankincense, and myrrh." - Matthew 2:7-11 KJV

Gold for a king – and Jesus is King of kings – reigning forever!

"And the angel said unto her, Fear not, Mary: for thou hast found favour with God. And, behold, thou shalt conceive in thy womb, and bring forth a son, and shalt call his name JESUS. He shall be great, and shall be called the Son of the Highest: and the Lord God shall give unto him the throne of his father David: And he shall reign over the house of Jacob for ever; and of his kingdom there shall be no end." - Luke 1:30-33 KJV

"These shall make war with the Lamb, and the Lamb shall overcome them: for he is Lord of lords, and King of kings: and they that are with him are called, and chosen, and faithful." - Revelation 17:14 KJV

Church!!

"Now when Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judaea in the days of Herod the king, behold, there came wise men from the east to Jerusalem, Saying, Where is he that is born King of the Jews? for we have seen his star in the east, and are come to worship him...

When they had heard the king, they departed; and, lo, the star, which they saw in the east, went before them, till it came and stood over where the young child was. When they saw the star, they rejoiced with exceeding great joy. And when they were come into the house, they saw the young child with Mary his mother, and fell down, and worshipped him: and when they had opened their treasures, they presented unto him gifts; gold, and frankincense, and myrrh." - Matthew 2:1-2, 9-11 KJV

"Give unto the LORD the glory due unto his name: bring an offering, and come before him: worship the LORD in the beauty of holiness." - 1 Chronicles 16:29 KJV

"But as for me, I will come into thy house in the multitude of thy mercy: and in thy fear will I worship toward thy holy temple." - Psalm 5:7 KJV

"But the hour cometh, and now is, when the true worshippers shall worship the Father in spirit and in truth: for the Father seeketh such to worship him. God is a Spirit: and they that worship him must worship him in spirit and in truth." - John 4:23-24 KJV