A new year. A new calendar to open and start new. An opportunity to purpose in our hearts to live for God more than we have last year…to do more in the kingdom of God – praying more, witnessing more, fulfilling our callings.

This new year can be a productive time of self-examination. It can be a productive time of making things right. It can be a time of forgiveness. It can be a time of repentance and receiving forgiveness.

"Brethren, I count not myself to have apprehended: but this one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind, and reaching forth unto those things which are before, I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus." - Philippians 3:13-14 KJV

A new year is coming...

"Repent ye therefore, and be converted, that your sins may be blotted out, when the times of refreshing shall come from the presence of the Lord;" - Acts 3:19

"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

Church!

A new year is just around the corner. Today is a good day to get ready for it!

"Thou wilt shew me the path of life: in thy presence is fulness of joy; at thy right hand there are pleasures for evermore." - Psalm 16:11

"What is Repentance? It is a change of mind, that leads to a change of heart, that leads to a change in actions. This change involves both a turning from sin and a turning to God."

This change of mind is not something that goes back and forth every day, choosing God, then choosing sin. True repentance is a life change. When we repent, we do not continue in sin, saying to ourselves that grace will keep covering our sinful lifestyle.

What does Paul say about this?

"What shall we say then? Shall we continue in sin, that grace may abound? GOD FORBID. How shall we, that are dead to sin, live any longer therein?

“Know ye not, that so many of us as were baptized into Jesus Christ were baptized into his death? 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.

“For if we have been planted together in the likeness of his death, we shall be also in the likeness of his resurrection: 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 6:1-6 KJV (My italics.)

Jesus gives us the gift of His Spirit so that we CAN walk in newness of life. His Spirit leads us to make changes in our life to become holy. Jesus' Spirit gives us His power to overcome temptation and live a victorious life. With His Spirit, Jesus opens our eyes to see the way of escape from temptations. Praying in every situation, and being led by His Spirit, we keep the victory.

(Acts 1:8, Romans 12:1-2, John 14:26, 1 Corinthians 2:16, Ephesians 4:11-15, 1Corinthians 10:13, Romans 8:5-16, 1 John 5:4).

"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

"And they were all filled with the Holy Ghost, and began to speak with other tongues, as the Spirit gave them utterance." - Acts 2:4 KJV

Repentance

The First Step in God's Plan for Salvation

To experience sorrow and conviction over past sins, and a turning away from future sin.

John the Baptist Preached Repentance

"And saying, Repent ye: for the kingdom of heaven is at hand." - Matthew 3:2 KJV

"John did baptize in the wilderness, and preach the baptism of repentance for the remission of sins." - Mark 1:4 KJV ["This messenger was John the Baptist. He was in the wilderness and preached that people should be baptized to show that they had repented of their sins and turned to God to be forgiven." - Mark 1:4 NLT]

Jesus Preached Repentance

"I tell you, Nay: but, except ye repent, ye shall all likewise perish." - Luke 13:3 KJV

"And that repentance and remission of sins should be preached in his name among all nations, beginning at Jerusalem." - Luke 24:47 KJV

Peter Preached Repentance

"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

"The Lord is not slack concerning his promise, as some men count likeness: but is long suffering to us-ward, not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance." 2 Peter 3:9

[From: Exploring God's Word Bible study]

Who was born in Bethlehem? God the Father, Creator of the universe, was born a son, to live among His creation, to die, and to rise again. What is His name? JESUS.

"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." - Isaiah 9:6 KJV

"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

A Christmas Story

What is Christmas, Mama?

Christmas is the time of the year when we remember the great gift the Lord gives to us.

God’s gift is for you, for me, and for all the world.

What gift does God give us, Mama?

The Lord gives us a gift that prophets from old time told us would come.

What are prophets?

Prophets are holy men that God speaks to. God tells them what He wants them to tell His people.

Isaiah is a prophet. God told Isaiah there would be a child born. He would be a son. He would be born a King. He would bring the kingdom of God on earth.

Who is this child?

Isaiah told us this child is Wonderful Counselor, The Mighty God, The Everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace.

Is this child God?

This child is God inside a human body. God began His life as a human as a little baby.

Why is He called The Prince of Peace?

God brought peace to us when He paid the price of our sins. It is a wonderful feeling when we are forgiven and have a fresh start to do what pleases 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." - Isaiah 9:6 KJV

"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." - Colossians 1:20 KJV

"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

What is this child’s name, Mama?

This child would be named JESUS. This name is God’s name. It means “LORD Salvation”. The name JESUS is God’s greatest name because God paid the price for our sins in the name of Jesus.

"Neither is there salvation in any other: for there is none other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved." - Acts 4:12 KJV

Who is this child’s mama?

Her name is Mary.

The angel of the Lord, Gabriel, visited Mary. He told her God would give her a son. He would be God in a human body – the Son of God. The angel told Mary to name her child JESUS. He would be a King with a kingdom that has no end.

"And, behold, thou shalt conceive in thy womb, and bring forth a son, and shalt call his name JESUS." - Luke 1:31 KJV

"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:" - Luke 1:32 KJV

"And he shall reign over the house of Jacob for ever; and of his kingdom there shall be no end." - Luke 1:33 KJV

Joseph was soon to be Mary’s husband. He had just found out that Mary was expecting a baby. Joseph was thinking of not marrying her.

While he was thinking about this, the angel of the Lord appeared to Joseph in a dream. He told Joseph to not be afraid to take Mary as his wife. Mary was going to have a baby by the power of God’s Spirit.

He told Joseph to name this holy child JESUS: “for he shall save his people from their sins”.

"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." - Matthew 1:20 KJV

"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

Where was Jesus born?

The Lord spoke through the prophet Micah telling us that Jesus would be born in Bethlehem.

Bethlehem was King David’s home. God promised David there would be a son born from his descendants that would reign forever. This son of David would be God in a human body that would be King forever.

"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

"And when thy days be fulfilled, and thou shalt sleep with thy fathers, I will set up thy seed after thee, which shall proceed out of thy bowels, and I will establish his kingdom." - 2 Samuel 7:12 KJV

"He shall build an house for my name, and I will stablish the throne of his kingdom for ever." - 2 Samuel 7:13 KJV

On the night Jesus was born, the angel of the Lord appeared to shepherds that were watching their flocks of sheep in the fields.

All of a sudden, the shepherds felt the glory and power of the Lord all around them and got scared.

The angel told them, you have nothing to be afraid of - you are feeling the presence of God! What I have come to tell you is going to make you very happy. It will bring great joy to you and to everyone that hears the good news I am bringing you.

The angel told the shepherds they would see a sign. They would find Jesus wrapped up snugly and lying in a manger.

Why was Jesus in a manger, Mama? Is a manger what animals eat out of?

Yes. God told us that animals know who the farmer is that feeds them and they know that they find their hay in the manger, but God’s own people do not know who He is and that He cares for them.

God, our heavenly Father, made Himself as a baby and was born our Savior. God knew that He would be rejected by the leaders of His people. He knew that they would not recognize Him as their Savior in a human body. The manger is a sign to show the world Jesus is God.

What happened next, Mama?

"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." - Luke 2:8-9 KJV

"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 2:10-11 KJV

"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

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

Suddenly the sky was filled with angels. They were praising and giving God glory for the peace He was bringing to earth between Himself and man. Because of God’s great gift, we can have a close relationship with Him again, like Adam and Eve had back in the Garden of Eden. God was going to save us from our sins that had caused separation between us and God.

The shepherds were excited to go see the Savior that everyone had been waiting for!

They hurried to Bethlehem and found Mary, and Joseph, and the baby lying in a manger, just as the angel of the Lord had told them.

"And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God, and saying, Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men." - Luke 2:13-14 KJV

"And it came to pass, as the angels were gone away from them into heaven, the shepherds said one to another, Let us now go even unto Bethlehem, and see this thing which is come to pass, which the Lord hath made known unto us. And they came with haste, and found Mary, and Joseph, and the babe lying in a manger." - Luke 2:15-16 KJV

When they saw Jesus in the manger, the shepherds went and told everyone everywhere, The Lord has come to save us!

"And when they had seen it, they made known abroad the saying which was told them concerning this child." - Luke 2:17 KJV

"And all they that heard it wondered at those things which were told them by the shepherds. ... And the shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things that they had heard and seen, as it was told unto them." - Luke 2:18, 20 KJV

As Jesus grew, from a child to a man, He spread His love telling people everywhere about His kingdom. He went about preaching and healing sick, blind, deaf, and lame people.

Jesus chose twelve men to follow Him. They are called disciples. Jesus baptized His disciples in His name Jesus, then they baptized in Jesus name all those that came to Jesus.

When we repent and are baptized in Jesus name, our sins are washed away.

Many people heard this message and began to follow Jesus. They knew Jesus is the way to heaven.

"After these things came Jesus and his disciples into the land of Judaea; and there he tarried with them, and baptized." - John 3:22 KJV

After doing many miracles and preaching the gospel, God gave the greatest gift He could give: He gave His body on a cross made from a tree to pay the price of our sins.

Did God die, Mama?

The body that God lived in died on a cross. His disciples buried His body in a tomb. But that is not the end of the story!

"Who his own self bare our sins in his own body on the tree…" - 1 Peter 2:24 KJV

"And, having made peace through the blood of his cross, by him to reconcile all things unto himself…" - Colossians 1:20 KJV

On the third day, God brought His body back to life.

An angel at the grave told His disciples Jesus had risen from the dead!

Because Jesus is God, He is alive today and forevermore.

"And he saith unto them, Be not affrighted: Ye seek Jesus of Nazareth, which was crucified: he is risen; he is not here: behold the place where they laid him." - Mark 16:6 KJV

Jesus then spent 40 days with His disciples. He told them He was going away to heaven, but He would come back and fill them with His Spirit, the Holy Ghost.

"To whom also he shewed himself alive after his passion by many infallible proofs, being seen of them forty days, and speaking of the things pertaining to the kingdom of God:" - Acts 1:3 KJV

"And, being assembled together with them, commanded them that they should not depart from Jerusalem, but wait for the promise of the Father, which, saith he, ye have heard of me. For John truly baptized with water; but ye shall be baptized with the Holy Ghost not many days hence." - Acts 1:4-5 KJV

When we are sorry for the wrong things we have done, and we love Jesus with all of our heart, we can receive God’s special gift of His Spirit in us.

When we are baptized in water in Jesus name, all the things we are sorry for are washed away. We are clean from all of our sins. We enter into the kingdom of God.

"Jesus answered, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born of water and of the Spirit, he cannot enter into the kingdom of God." - John 3:5 KJV

Jesus told His disciples to tell everyone the good news of His gospel. The gospel is the good news that Jesus died for our sins, He was buried, and on the third day rose again!

"And he said unto them, Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature." - Mark 16:15 KJV

What shall we do, Mama?

Peter explained what to do on the Day of Pentecost when Jesus first poured our His Spirit.

"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

"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 2:39 KJV

We can worship and pray to Jesus and receive His gift of His Spirit, the Holy Ghost! We can get baptized in water in Jesus name and have all our sins washed away!

This gift is for you, for me, and for all the world!

Mama, now I know what Christmas is –

It is the time of year we remember the birth of Jesus and the great gift He gives to us – peace, His Holy Ghost, and a place in His Kingdom!

Shepherds

The Bible speaks of spiritual shepherds – pastors - that care for the church of God, leading and guiding His people by anointed preaching and teaching of His Word. (Acts 2:38).

"Feed the flock of God which is among you…and when the chief Shepherd shall appear, ye shall receive a crown of glory that fadeth not away." - 1 Peter 5:2-4 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

When the Lord was born as a baby in Bethlehem, angels announced His birth.

How fitting that shepherds were the first to hear the announcement!

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

"And this shall be a sign unto you; Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger. And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God, and saying, Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men." - Luke 2:12-14 KJV

The Creator of the universe had humbled Himself to dwell among His creation. (Philippians 2:6-11).

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

"And it came to pass, as the angels were gone away from them into heaven, the shepherds said one to another, Let us now go even unto Bethlehem, and see this thing which is come to pass, which the Lord hath made known unto us. And they came with haste, and found Mary, and Joseph, and the babe lying in a manger. And when they had seen it, they made known abroad the saying which was told them concerning this child." - Luke 2:15-17 KJV

The shepherds were witnesses of Jesus’ birth. They were witnesses of the skies filling with the heavenly host praising God for the great joy that He would bring as our Savior. The shepherds did not delay. They made known abroad the message that they heard and witnessed for themselves.

"And all they that heard it wondered at those things which were told them by the shepherds. But Mary kept all these things, and pondered them in her heart." - Luke 2:18-19 KJV

Those that heard the shepherds wondered. God’s grace is amazing.

"And the shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things that they had heard and seen, as it was told unto them." - Luke 2:20 KJV

What is Hanukkah?

Hanukkah is mentioned in the New Testament as the “feast of the dedication.”

"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]

“Hanukkah,” also called “Chanukah,” began Sunday, December 23, 2019, at dusk.

It is the Jewish “festival of lights,” celebrated with a nightly menorah lighting, special prayers and fried foods.

The Hebrew word “Hanukkah” means “Dedication.” On this day in 139 BC the Temple was repaired, cleansed and rededicated. This is after the Temple was 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, and Sabbath rest, circumcision and the dietary laws were prohibited under penalty of death.

Antiochus sent his General Apolonius to wipe out Judah and his followers, the Maccabees. The Maccabees were a band of Jewish freedom fighters. Though greater in number and equipment than their adversaries, the Syrians were defeated by the Maccabees.

The Maccabees returned to Jerusalem to liberate it. They entered the Temple and cleared it of the idols placed there by the Syrians. Judah and his followers built a new altar, which he dedicated on the 25th of the Hebrew month Kislev, in the year 3622 (139 BC).

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. By a miracle of God, it continued to burn for eight days, until new oil was made available. In memory of this, Jewish sages appointed these eight days for annual thanksgiving and for lighting candles.

For eight nights, candles are lit to recall and publicize this great miracle. A menorah holds eight candles, with one additional candle placed above the rest that is used to light the other candles. On the first night, one candle is lit. On the second night, two candles are lit, and so on until the eighth night. It is said that throughout the eight nights, the lights are multiplied, totaling thirty-six lights lit over 8 nights. It is required that the menorah lights be set in a window or doorway so that the world that passes by can see the light. A menorah is lit in every household.

Peace

"Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men." - Luke 2:14 KJV

Our Heavenly Father robed Himself in flesh in His name Jesus and dwelt among us as the Messiah. He came to bring us peace.

Isaiah foretold of His birth and called Him the Prince of peace.

"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." - Isaiah 9:6 KJV

What peace would Jesus bring and how would He bring it?

Jesus would bring peace between Himself and humanity, where our sins and iniquities had separated us. God would bring peace by paying for our sins by His death on the cross.

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

"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." - Colossians 1:20 KJV

"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

Jesus told His disciples He was going to suffer and die, and on the third day rise again.

"For he taught his disciples, and said unto them, The Son of man is delivered into the hands of men, and they shall kill him; and after that he is killed, he shall rise the third day." - Mark 9:31 KJV

"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

By Jesus’ death, burial, and resurrection, He brought peace between Himself and humanity. By His death He destroyed the devil and delivered all those that were in bondage by their fear of dying.

"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

By our repentance, baptism in Jesus name for the remission of our sins, and by receiving the gift of the Holy Ghost, we no longer have to fear death. We have eternal life, and abundant new life in this life. (Acts 2:38, Acts 2:4, Romans 6:1-4, John 10:10, 2 Corinthians 5:20, Romans 6:8-9).

In the beginning of the nation of Israel, God was their King. After the years of the judges and at the time of Samuel, the last judge, the people decided they wanted a king like the other nations.

Samuel was not happy with the people, and went to the LORD.

"And the LORD said unto Samuel, Hearken unto the voice of the people in all that they say unto thee: for they have not rejected thee, but they have rejected me, that I should not reign over them." - 1 Samuel 8:7

God told Samuel to warn the people of all the problems they would have if a man was their king instead of God.

"Nevertheless the people refused to obey the voice of Samuel; and they said, Nay; but we will have a king over us; that we also may be like all the nations; and that our king may judge us, and go out before us, and fight our battles." - 1 Samuel 8:19-20

As many years went by and kings came and went, none could be a substitute for God as their King.

Then "the fullness of time" arrived.

"But when the fulness of the time was come, God sent forth his Son, made of a woman, made under the law, to redeem them that were under the law, that we might receive the adoption of sons." - Galatians 4:4-5

Just a short time after Israel’s covenant of the law with God at Mt. Sinai, there was the first sin of the Jewish people as a nation with the golden calf. Israel needed a Redeemer.

Now, in the fulness of time, God Himself would pay the price of sin with the shedding of His very own blood. (Acts 20:28).

The Lord overshadowed a young virgin, causing her to conceive. This baby boy was God in flesh, the Redeemer. (1 Timothy 3:16, Titus 2:13-14).

"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

"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." - Matthew 1:23

Not only did God come as Redeemer: He came as King.

The wise men from the east came seeking this King,

"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 2:2

God would once again be King of the Jews. This time, God would be the King that every eye could see. (Revelation 1:7). He would be the Righteous Judge. (2 Timothy 4:8). He would go out before His people, and fight their battles. (Revelation 17:14). God, as the Lamb of sacrifice which taketh away the sin of the world, is this King. (Revelation 5:6).  His name is JESUS. (John 1:29).

"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

Gold, Frankincense, and Myrrh part 3

Myrrh was one of the three gifts given to Jesus when He was a young child from wise men when they came to worship Him as King of the Jews. (Matthew 2:11).

While gold spoke of Jesus’ Kingship, myrrh spoke of Jesus’ anointing and death.

In the Old Testament, Myrrh was used in the holy anointing oil used to anoint the tabernacle and the priests. (Exodus 30:22-31). Jesus spoke of His body as the tabernacle (temple). (John 2:19-21). His Spirit within Him is the anointing. (John 14:7-10). 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. (John 1:29, Hebrews 2:17, Hebrews 4:15, Hebrews 10:10, Hebrews 9:11-12, Acts 20:28).

"And thou shalt sanctify them, that they may be most holy: whatsoever toucheth them shall be holy." - Exodus 30:29 KJV (Luke 8:46-47).

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.

Myrrh was mentioned at the time of Jesus’ suffering and death. It symbolized Jesus’ supreme love for His people, because of His willingness to suffer and die for His Bride.

"And they gave him to drink wine mingled with myrrh: but he received it not." - Mark 15:23 KJV

"Husbands, love your wives, even as Christ also loved the church, and gave himself for it;" - Ephesians 5:25 KJV

As an antiseptic, myrrh was used in embalming. Myrrh was used to anoint Jesus at His burial.

A woman anointed Jesus’ body with ointment. (Matthew 26:7). The Greek word for “ointment” is a root word of the Greek word for “myrrh.” Jesus said she did this for His burial, and wherever the gospel shall be preached, what she had done would be told. (Matthew 26:12-13). The gospel is the death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus. (1 Corinthians 15:1-4, Acts 2:38).

Nicodemus brought myrrh to anoint Jesus’ body for burial. This is the same Nicodemus that was a ruler of the Jews that Jesus told we must be born of water and of the Spirit to enter the kingdom of God. (John 3:1-21, John 7:50-52, John 19:38-42).

Gold, Frankincense, and Myrrh part 2

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. The frankincense, along with three fragrant spices, was to be only for the LORD. (Exodus 30:34-38).

It appears that because frankincense was to be only for the LORD, the wise men offering frankincense to the young child Jesus was symbolic that Jesus is the LORD. (John 14:7-10, Colossians 1:15).

Frankincense was also placed on meal offerings to the LORD. The priests, Aaron’s sons, took his handful of the flour, the oil, with all the frankincense, and would burn the memorial of it upon the altar to the LORD. (Leviticus 2:1-3)

As the remnant of this offering with frankincense was for the high priest Aaron and his sons, the wise men offering frankincense to Jesus, points to Jesus being our High Priest.

"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. (John 6:48).

"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

Jesus experienced the bitterness of extreme pain and suffering of lashes and then crucifixion. As the priests would eat the shewbread with the bitter frankincense, we are to follow Jesus and crucify our sinful nature. (Matthew 16:21).

"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

We do this by repenting of our sins, being baptized in Jesus name for the remission of our sins, and receiving the gift of the Holy Ghost, to live a new life in Jesus. (Acts 2:38-39).

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

It was the prophet Micah that foretold of this King – the LORD manifest in flesh – coming out of Bethlehem to rule Israel. (Isaiah 9:6 – the everlasting Father).

"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

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

The birth of Christ came with the announcement of the angel of the Lord, the Shekinah glory, and the multitude of the heavenly host praising God and giving Him glory for the peace He would bring as the Savior of all mankind.

When the angel of the Lord announced the birth of Christ to the shepherds, God graced the occasion with His Shekinah glory shining round about them.

"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." - Luke 2:9 KJV

"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. And this shall be a sign unto you; ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger." - Luke 2:10-12 KJV

After this, a multitude of the heavenly host praised God and gave Him glory for the peace He was bringing to those whom His favor would rest. (Colossians 1:20, 2 Corinthians 5:19, Acts 2:38, Acts 2:4, Acts 22:16).

"And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God, and saying, Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men." - Luke 2:13-14 KJV

Wise men from the east, Gentiles, came to Herod the king of Israel, seeking the newly born King of the Jews.

"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

"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." - Matthew 2:8 KJV

"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." - Matthew 2:9-10 KJV

How did these Gentile wise men hear about this star and the birth of the new King of the Jews?

Perhaps the wise men were searching for the star spoken of by the Gentile prophet Balaam.

"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

Today, if we seek the Lord, we will find Him.

"And ye shall seek me, and find me, when ye shall search for me with all your heart." - Jeremiah 29:13 KJV

As Isaiah prophesied,

"Seek ye the LORD while he may be found, call ye upon him while he is near:" - Isaiah 55:6 KJV

"Let the wicked forsake his way, and the unrighteous man his thoughts: and let him return unto the LORD, and he will have mercy upon him; and to our God, for he will abundantly pardon." - Isaiah 55:7 KJV

As Peter preached on the Day of Pentecost,

"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

"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 2:39 KJV

Church!!

The Manger

The word “manger” is mentioned three times in Luke’s account of the birth of Jesus. In Luke 2:12 it says it is a sign!

"And she brought forth her firstborn son, and wrapped him in swaddling clothes, and laid him in a manger; because there was no room for them in the inn. ... And this shall be a sign unto you; ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger. ... And they came with haste, and found Mary, and Joseph, and the babe lying in a manger." - Luke 2:7, 12, 16

According to Thayer’s Lexicon, the word "manger" means feeding trough. It is another word for “crib.” "Crib" is found in Isaiah 1:3.

"Hear, O heavens, and give ear, O earth: for the LORD hath spoken, I have nourished and brought up children, and they have rebelled against me. The ox knoweth his owner, and the ass his master's crib [manger]: but Israel doth not know, my people doth not consider." - Isaiah 1:2-3

Rebellion brings spiritual blindness. It appears the Lord is revealing that because of rebellion, Israel would not recognize their Savior.

"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." - John 1:10-11

"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 1:12-13

How do we receive Him?

"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

When Christ was born, the angels gave glory to God for His birth that would bring peace on earth to those that would receive His mercy.

"And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God, and saying, Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men [“to those on whom his favor rests”]." - Luke 2:13-14 KJV

The birth of Jesus came with His purpose to give His life for the salvation of the world. He came to restore the peace between us and Himself, that had been shattered by sin.

"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." - Colossians 1:20 KJV

Isaiah foretold of Jesus’ birth, revealing His identity as the Father – the mighty God – that was born to bring peace through the establishment of His kingdom on earth. Jesus would bring His kingdom by the gospel. HE would receive the judgment and justice for OUR sin, once and for all, by His suffering and death on the cross. Buried and resurrected, He accomplished victory and everlasting peace.

"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

The zeal of the LORD – God’s love for mankind – performed this humbling of Himself to redeem us from sin and death. God’s passion for His beloved caused Him His great sacrifice. (Hebrews 2:14-15, Philippians 2:7-8, Acts 20:28).

We enter His kingdom by the new birth – being born again of water and of the Spirit. (John 3:5). This new birth into His kingdom is called the gospel of peace, because it brings peace between us and Jesus.

This is what Peter preached, beginning on the Day of Pentecost.

"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

Those that obey this gospel of peace find true peace and the favor 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." - Isaiah 9:6 KJV

Jesus is the Bread of Life.

"For the bread of God is he which cometh down from heaven, and giveth life unto the world. Then said they unto him, Lord, evermore give us this bread. And Jesus said unto them, I am the bread of life: he that cometh to me shall never hunger; and he that believeth on me shall never thirst." - John 6:33-35 KJV

"I am that bread of life. ... This is the bread which cometh down from heaven, that a man may eat thereof, and not die. 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 6:48, 50-51 KJV

"And as they were eating, Jesus took bread, and blessed it, and brake it, and gave it to the disciples, and said, Take, eat; this is my body." - Matthew 26:26 KJV

"Bethlehem" means "house of bread."

"And Joseph also went up from Galilee, out of the city of Nazareth, into Judaea, unto the city of David, which is called Bethlehem; (because he was of the house and lineage of David:) To be taxed with Mary his espoused wife, being great with child." - Luke 2:4-5 KJV

"And so it was, that, while they were there, the days were accomplished that she should be delivered. And she brought forth her firstborn son, and wrapped him in swaddling clothes, and laid him in a manger; because there was no room for them in the inn." - Luke 2:6-7 KJV

Jesus, the Father revealed in flesh, was prophesied by the prophet Micah to be born in Bethlehem.

"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

Bethlehem – the “House of Bread.”

What does the verse mean that says,

"And we beseech you, brethren, to KNOW them which labour among you, and are over you in the Lord, and admonish you;" - 1 Thessalonians 5:12 KJV (Capitalization is my emphasis).

According to Thayer’s Greek Lexicon, the word “know” in this verse has the following meaning:

“3. Hebraistically, εἰδέναι τινά to have regard for one, cherish, pay attention to: 1 Thessalonians 5:12”

(https://www.blueletterbible.org/lang/lexicon/lexicon.cfm?Strongs=G1492&t=KJV).

This definition goes along with the following verse:

"And to esteem them very highly in love for their work's sake. And be at peace among yourselves." - 1 Thessalonians 5:13 KJV

Another translation reads:

"Dear brothers and sisters, honor those who are your leaders in the Lord's work. They work hard among you and give you spiritual guidance. Show them great respect and wholehearted love because of their work. And live peacefully with each other." - 1 Thessalonians 5:12-13 NLT

Church!

Exploring God's Word

"And when he had said this, he breathed on them, and saith unto them, Receive ye the Holy Ghost:" - John 20:22 KJV

In the Old Testament, the word for “breath” – “ruwach” - is the same word for “Spirit,” as well and “wind.”

In the New Testament, the word for “breath” – “pnoē” – is (again) the same word for “wind” (also “bloweth.”) The word for “Spirit” (also “Ghost”) is “pneuma.” The root word of “pneuma” is “pneō,” which is above, the word for “breath” and “wind.”

So, we can see that the words “breath,” “wind,” “bloweth,” and “Spirit,” are tied in together.

Jesus compared being born of the Spirit to the wind. (They are the same Greek word.)

"The wind bloweth where it listeth, and thou hearest the sound thereof, but canst not tell whence it cometh, and whither it goeth: so is every one that is born of the Spirit." - John 3:8 KJV

When Jesus was giving His disciples the ‘Great Commission’ in the book of John, the Bible says,

"And when he had said this, he breathed on them, and saith unto them, Receive ye the Holy Ghost:" - John 20:22 KJV

Interestingly, the root word of “breathed” is to “spring up,” “to beget,” “to be born.”

Larry Pierce, in his ‘Outline of Biblical Usage’ makes the comment, “The Greek word here used is employed nowhere else in the New Testament, but is the very one used by the Septuagint translators of Gen 2:7: 'And the Lord God formed man of the dust of the ground, and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life; and man became a living soul.' There, man's original creation was completed by this act of God; who, then, can fail to see that here in John 20, on the day of the Saviour's resurrection, the new creation had begun, begun by the Head of the new creation, the last Adam acting as 'a quickening spirit' (1Cr 15:45)!" (Arthur W. Pink, Exposition of the Gospel of John, p. 1100).”

Thus, just as Adam was ‘born’ when Jesus breathed into his nostrils the breath of life and he became a living soul, Jesus signaled the new birth of His disciples when He breathed on them and said, Receive ye the Holy Ghost.  

On the Day of Pentecost, the sound that was heard is described as a rushing mighty “wind” (“pnoe”), which is the word for “breath” and “wind.” Those in the upper room were receiving the breath of life - the breath of Jesus Christ - the Holy Ghost.