Okemah UPC Presents: Rev. David Shatwell "The Tragedy of a Wounded Spirit"

Looking Forward to the New Year - Forgetting and Remembering for a Fresh Start

As we look forward to the New Year, there are things to forget, and things to remember.

"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

There are things we can forget that can get rid of bitterness and pain. Forgiveness can clean house for a fresh start in the new year, making us ready to accomplish the things we have been wanting to do.

"And be ye kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God for Christ's sake [through Christ] hath forgiven you." - Ephesians 4:32 KJV

What shall we remember? We remember what Jesus has done in our life – lessons we have learned, victories we have rejoiced in, healings we are so thankful for, and blessings we praise Him for.

"And let the peace of God rule in your hearts, to the which also ye are called in one body; and be ye thankful." - Colossians 3:15 KJV176 words

 

The Butler and the Baker and Communion

 The Butler and 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 Butler seems to represent the blood and Spirit of Jesus. The Baker seems to represent the body 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)

"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. Then 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)

The Butler, as the cup bearer, seems to represent the Life that is in Jesus.

"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)

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.

A New Year is about to Begin

We are realizing that, once again, another year is coming to a close, and a new year is about to begin. Time seems to pass SO quickly.

Are we doing, or have we done, what Jesus called us to do?

Have we been faithful to do what He DAILY wants us to do?

Are we allowing distractions that entertain us to interfere with the things that have eternal value?

"For all that is in the world, the lust of the flesh, and the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life, is not of the Father, but is of the world. And the world passeth away, and the lust thereof: but he that doeth the will of God abideth for ever." - 1 John 2:16-17 KJV

Do we allow our mind to dwell on those things that we should forget?

Are there people we need to forgive, before we start fresh in the new year?

"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

Have we made a greater consecration and dedication, in these end days, to be unmoveable in our faithfulness to Jesus, His gospel, His truth?

"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

What is Repentance?

"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 following is from “Exploring God's Word Bible study”

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 [see: Acts 19:4-5]

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

A Christmas Story - What is Christmas, Mama?

 

A Christmas Story

 

What is Christmas, Mama?

 

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

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

 

" Thanks be unto God for his unspeakable gift." - 2 Corinthians 9:15 KJV

What gift does God give us, Mama?

The Lord gives us a gift that prophets from old time spake about.

"As he spake by the mouth of his holy prophets, which have been since the world began:" - Luke 1:70 KJV

What are prophets?

Prophets are holy men that God speaks to. The Spirit of God, the Holy Ghost, tells the prophets what He wants them to tell His people.

"For the prophecy came not in old time by the will of man: but holy men of God spake as they were moved by the Holy Ghost." - 2 Peter 1:21 KJV

Isaiah was a prophet.

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

"For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon his shoulder…" - Isaiah 9:6 KJV

Who is this child?

The prophet Isaiah told us this child is Emmanuel, which means God with us.

"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 KJV

Mama, is this child God?

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

"And his name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace." - Isaiah 9:6 KJV

Who is this child’s mama?

His mama’s name is Mary.

Gabriel, the angel of the Lord, visited Mary. He told Mary that God would give her a son. She was to call His name JESUS.

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

Joseph was soon to be Mary’s husband.

The angel of the Lord appeared to Joseph in a dream. He told Joseph that Mary was going to have a baby by the power of God’s Spirit.

"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

The angel told Joseph that he was to call the baby’s name JESUS, because He would save His people from their sins. The name JESUS means the LORD is Salvation.

"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 prophet Micah told us that Jesus would be born in the town of 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

Mary and Joseph had come to Bethlehem to be taxed. There was no room for them in the inn.

"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 2:7 KJV

On the night Jesus was born, there were shepherds watching their flocks of sheep in the fields.

"And there were in the same country shepherds abiding in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night." - Luke 2:8 KJV

All of a sudden, the shepherds saw the angel of the Lord and the glory of the Lord all around them. The angel told them, You have nothing to be afraid of! I have come to tell you good news that will bring great joy to all people.

"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." - Luke 2:9-10 KJV

Mama, what is the good news that would bring great joy?

God had come to save us from our sins. He was bringing peace on earth with mankind. He was born as a baby, the Prince of Peace and Savior of the World.

"For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord." - Luke 2:11 KJV

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

"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

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

Yes, animals eat out of a manger. God told us that even an ox knows its owner, and a donkey knows who puts food in the manger, but God’s own people do not know who He is and His care for them. The manger is a sign to show the world Jesus is God.

"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

What happened next, Mama?

Suddenly the sky was filled with angels. They were praising and giving God glory for the peace He was bringing between Himself and man.

"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

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

"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." - Luke 2:15 KJV

They hurried to Bethlehem and found the baby lying in a manger, just as the angels had said.

"And they came with haste, and found Mary, and Joseph, and the babe lying in a manger." - Luke 2:16 KJV

When they saw Jesus in the manger, the shepherds went and told everyone everywhere, Christ the Lord, our Savior has been born! Everyone that heard wondered at the exciting news the shepherds told them.

 "And when they had seen it, they made known abroad the saying which was told them concerning this child. And all they that heard it wondered at those things which were told them by the shepherds." - Luke 2:17-18 KJV

Mary kept all these things in her heart, and thought about them often.

"But Mary kept all these things, and pondered them in her heart." - Luke 2:19 KJV

The shepherds praised God for all the amazing things they had heard and seen that night of the birth of Jesus! They were the first messengers of the good news that Jesus, the Savior of the world, was born.

"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

Mama, now I know what Christmas is –

It is the time of year we remember the birth of Jesus and the wonderful gift He came to bring – the gift of salvation and peace - for you, for me, and for the whole world!

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[If you would like a copy of this story with the photos as part of the story, feel free to PM (private message) me your email and I will send you a copy. It will be an attachment with the photos inserted on each page.]

Emmanuel - God With Us

 

About 700 years before Jesus was born, the prophet Isaiah foretold of His birth.

"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

He would be a son.

"And she shall bring forth a son, and thou shalt call his name JESUS…" - Matthew 1:21 KJV

He would bring the kingdom of God to Earth.

"Of the increase of his government and peace there shall be no end, upon the throne of David, and upon his kingdom…" - Isaiah 9:7

This son would be the Mighty God in a human body.

"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 KJV

This son would be the Everlasting Father revealed in flesh as a man.

"He that hath seen me hath seen the Father;" - John 14:9 KJV

This son would be the Prince of Peace.

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

We find peace within when we are filled with His Spirit the Holy Ghost.

"For the kingdom of God is not meat and drink; but righteousness, and peace, and joy in the Holy Ghost." - Romans 14:17 KJV

When the angel Gabriel told Mary that the power of the Highest shall overshadow thee and she would have a baby, Mary said,

"...Be it unto me according to thy word." - Luke 1:38 KJV

When the angel Gabriel came to Joseph in a dream he told him,

"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

On the night that Jesus was born, the angel of the Lord announced His birth to shepherds that were in the field.

"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

Suddenly all the angels began praising the Lord! They said,

"Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men." 

Bethlehem Prophecy

The Bible records that Jesus was born in Bethlehem.

"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. And so it was, that, while they were there, the days were accomplished that she should be delivered." - Luke 2:4-5 KJV

The birth of Jesus in Bethlehem fulfills the prophecy of Christ the Messiah being born in Bethlehem.

"Hath not the scripture said, That Christ cometh of the seed of David, and out of the town of Bethlehem, where David was?" - John 7:42 KJV

The scripture that says Christ comes out of the town of Bethlehem is found in Micah.

"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

The everlasting Father was revealed when Jesus was born. “Whose goings forth have been from of old, from everlasting." Jesus said, “He that hath seen me hath seen the Father…” John 14:9.

"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

The Star

Balaam, a gentile prophet, prophesied of a Star.

"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

A scepter of a king. (Gesenius' Hebrew-Chaldee Lexicon).

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

"The sceptre shall not depart from Judah, nor a lawgiver from between his feet, until Shiloh come; and unto him shall the gathering of the people be." - Genesis 49:10 KJV

"But unto the Son he saith, Thy throne, O God, is for ever and ever: a sceptre of righteousness is the sceptre of thy kingdom." - Hebrews 1:8 KJV (Isaiah 9:7).

"Thy throne, O God, is for ever and ever: the sceptre of thy kingdom is a right sceptre." - Psalm 45:6 KJV

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.

"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.

“… 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." - Matthew 2:2-9 KJV

"When they saw the star, they rejoiced with exceeding great joy." - Matthew 2:10 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, and hath raised up an horn of salvation [mighty Savior] for us in the house [the royal line] of his servant David;" - Luke 1:67-69 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). He came in His name JESUS.

A horn (H7161), of an ox, a goat, or a ram, is a metaphor of strength and power. The first mention of the Hebrew word for horn is Genesis 22:13. When Abraham was being tested, he prophesied: “God will provide Himself a lamb…”

"And Abraham lifted up his eyes, and looked, and behold behind him a ram caught in a thicket by his horns: and Abraham went and took the ram, and offered him up for a burnt offering in the stead of his son." - Genesis 22:13 KJV

The horn from a ram, (a shofar), is used as a call to repentance and a reminder of the love of God for His people. It is a reminder of the ram that replaced Isaac on the altar as a sacrifice. A ram is a male sheep.

The Hebrew word for “ram’s horn,” “yovel” (H2986), is also the word for “jubile.”

"And ye shall hallow the fiftieth year, and proclaim liberty throughout all the land unto all the inhabitants thereof: it shall be a jubile unto you; and ye shall return every man unto his possession [all properties return to original owners], and ye shall return every man unto his family [all slaves are freed]." - Leviticus 25:10 KJV

Jesus is God our Savior, the horn of salvation. The ram that took Isaac’s place as a sacrifice is a metaphor for Jesus. Jesus (the Lamb of God which taketh away the sin of the world that hung on a tree) took our place as a sacrifice, just as the ram (a male sheep caught on a tree) took Isaac’s place as a sacrifice. Jesus is our Jubilee. We were slaves to sin and death but Jesus sets us free. (Hebrews 2:14-15, Acts 20:28).

We claim the freedom Jesus purchased for us when we turn our back on sin by repentance, we are baptized in the name of Jesus for the remission [forgiveness] of our sins, and we are filled with the power of Jesus to overcome sin and death when we receive the gift of His Holy Ghost. (Acts 2:38-39).

King Jesus

 

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 this, 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 KJV

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

Then "the fullness of time" arrived. (Galatians 4:4-5, Mark 1:15).

Israel needed a Redeemer.

Now, God Himself would pay the price of sin with the shedding of His very own blood. The Lord overshadowed a young virgin causing her to conceive. This baby boy was God in flesh, the Redeemer, not only of Israel, but of the whole world, for all have sinned. (Matthew 1:21-23).

Not only did God come as Redeemer, He came as King. The wise men from the east came seeking this King. (Matthew 2:2).

God would once again be King of the Jews. This time, God would be the King that every eye could see. He would be the Righteous Judge. He would go out before His people, and fight their battles.

God, as the Lamb of sacrifice which taketh away the sin of the world, is this King. His name is JESUS.

"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

The Star - Church!

                                                

Church!

The Star

While the shepherds came to worship Jesus at His birth, the wise men came to worship Him when He was “a young child.”

The Bible records,

"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 2:9-11 KJV

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 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.” (See Matthew 2:1-23 for the full account).

Balaam, a gentile prophet, had prophesied of a Star.

"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

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

The Birth of Christ

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

Gold, Frankincense, and Myrrh Part 3 - Myrrh

Myrrh was used in the Old Testament 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). Jesus is our high priest. (Hebrews 9:11-12). As an antiseptic, myrrh was used in embalming. Myrrh was used to anoint Jesus at His burial.

"There came unto him a woman having an alabaster box of very precious ointment, and poured it on his head, as he sat at meat.” - Matthew 26:7

The Greek word for “ointment” is a root word of the Greek word for “myrrh.”

Jesus said of the woman,

“For in that she hath poured this ointment on my body, she did it for my burial. Verily I say unto you, Wheresoever this gospel shall be preached in the whole world, there shall also this, that this woman hath done, be told for a memorial of her." - Matthew 26:12-13 KJV

The gospel is the death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus. (1 Corinthians 15:1-4, Romans 6:1-7, Acts 2:38).

"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

This is the same Nicodemus that was a ruler of the Jews that Jesus told he must be born of water and of the Spirit to enter the kingdom of God. (John 3:1-8).

An observation was made about the hundred-pound weight of myrrh and aloes that Nicodemus brought to embalm Jesus’ body: "The quantity of the balm is extraordinary and exceeds all normal proportions. This is a royal burial."

How fitting the gift of myrrh: Jesus was born King of the Jews, born to die for the sin of the world. Just as the wise men offered Jesus the gift of myrrh at Jesus birth, Nicodemus also offered the gift of myrrh at Jesus death, making sure Jesus had the burial of a King.

Gold, Frankincense, and Myrrh Part 2 - Frankincense

 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).

In this very busy time of the year...

This morning an old song came to my mind. I looked it up and here are the lyrics.

I want to share this, because it is so true! The Bible tells us that "in EVERY THING BY PRAYER":

"Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God." - Philippians 4:6 KJV

Jesus does not want us to stress in this very busy time of the year. He wants us to ask Him for help with EVERYTHING.

And the next verse! AFTER we do the first verse:

"And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus." - Philippians 4:7 KJV

It is wisdom, when we are having difficulties with our co-workers, brothers or sisters in the Lord, family or friends, the FIRST person we need to take it to is JESUS. Think about it...He is the One that can take care of EVERY situation, EVERY need, EVERY problem, even the desires of our heart!

Here are the lyrics:

Jesus on the mainline

Tell Him what you want

Jesus on the mainline

Tell Him what you want

Jesus on the mainline

Tell Him what you want

Jesus on the mainline now

If you need a healing

Tell Him what you want

If you need a healing

Tell Him what you want

If you need a healing

Just tell Him what you want

Jesus on that mainline now

If you need the Holy Ghost...

If you want revival...

You just call Him up, call Him up

Tell Him what you want

You call Him up, call Him up

Tell Him what you want

You have to call Him up, call Him up

Tell Him what you want

Jesus on that mainline now

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.

Herod demanded 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 2:5-6 KJV

Micah prophesied – the Eternal Father manifest in flesh.

"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 -

"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..." - Isaiah 9:6-7 KJV

Herod sent them to Bethlehem.

"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 2:11 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: And he shall reign over the house of Jacob for ever; and of his kingdom there shall be no end." - Luke 1:32-33 KJV

Church! And there were in the same country shepherds abiding in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night.

 Church!!

When Jesus was born in Bethlehem, it was to shepherds that the Lord announced His birth.

“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

The word for “good tidings” is “euangelizō.” This word is also translated as “preaching” and “gospel.”

"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." - Luke 2:15 KJV

The shepherds were true witnesses.

"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 2:16-17 KJV

They preached the message that the Lord made known to them.

"And all they that heard it wondered at those things which were told them by the shepherds." - Luke 2:18 KJV

"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

The message to shepherds today –

"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

The message to us, the sheep of His pasture –

"Know ye that the LORD he is God: it is he that hath made us, and not we ourselves; we are his people, and the sheep of his pasture." - Psalm 100:3 KJV

"And I will give you pastors according to mine heart, which shall feed you with knowledge and understanding." - Jeremiah 3:15 KJV

REJOICE!!

The BIBLE says THE HEAVENS REJOICED at the BIRTH OF CHRIST!!

 At THE BIRTH OF JESUS, the ANGEL OF THE LORD brought GOOD TIDINGS OF GREAT JOY which shall be to ALL PEOPLE!! (Luke 2:10)

 At the BIRTH OF JESUS, 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)

 "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

 *Glorifying: “to praise, extol, magnify, celebrate: for something, Luke 2:20” (According to Thayer’s Greek Lexicon).

 REJOICE!!

Forgiveness of sins at water baptism in the name of Jesus, not at repentance

Our sins are forgiven when the blood of Jesus is applied to our life in water baptism in the name of Jesus. Our sins are not forgiven at repentance, because there is no blood applied at repentance.

Jesus gave the church the power to forgive sins by water baptism through the name of Jesus.

"But that ye may know that the Son of man hath power on earth to forgive sins, (then saith he to the sick of the palsy,) Arise, take up thy bed, and go unto thine house.

“And he arose, and departed to his house.

"But when the multitudes saw it, they marvelled, and glorified God, which had given such power unto men." - Matthew 9:6-8 KJV

Here we see that Jesus gave power to men to forgive sins. Jesus refers to this later on in Matthew in His great commission.

Jesus said ALL POWER was given unto Him. Power to forgive sins. Go ye THEREFORE and BAPTISE. Baptizing to forgive sins. Matthew 28:18-19.

"And Jesus came and spake unto them, saying, All power is given unto me in heaven and in earth. Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost:" - Matthew 28:18-19 KJV (The NAME of the Father, Son, and Holy Ghost is JESUS.)

As was said earlier in Matthew, God gave men power to forgive sins. Forgiveness of sins takes place in baptism through the name of Jesus.

Jesus gave this power to remit sins to His disciples.

"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 (Remit means to forgive).

On the Day of Pentecost when the church began, Peter preached sins are forgiven by baptism in the name of Jesus. “FOR the remission of sins.”

"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

Thou shalt call His name JESUS: for he shall save His people from their sins

 

The power of the Highest, God, overshadowed Mary so that she conceived in her womb and brought forth a son. She called His name JESUS, as the angel Gabriel told her to. (Luke 1:26-35).

"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 1:32-33 KJV

The angel of the Lord spoke to Joseph in a dream.

"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." - Matthew 1:20-21 KJV

"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." - Matthew 1:22-23 KJV

"For the grace of God that bringeth salvation hath appeared to all men, teaching us that, denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, we should live soberly, righteously, and godly, in this present world; looking for that blessed hope, and the glorious appearing of the great God and our Saviour Jesus Christ; who gave himself for us, that he might redeem us from all iniquity, and purify unto himself a peculiar people, zealous of good works." - Titus 2:11-14 KJV

Peter preached how we can apply the blood of Jesus to our life to purify us and remit our sins. The Holy Ghost then becomes our promise for us to receive to sanctify us and make us holy. (Romans 15:16, 1Corinthians 6:9-11).

"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

A manger - And this shall be a sign unto you

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

What is the manger a sign of?

Isaiah saw a vision concerning Judah and Jerusalem.

"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." - Isaiah 1:2 KJV

Another word for "manger" is "crib."

"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

God gave Isaiah a vision of His coming. While the ox and donkey recognize their master, Israel did not recognize their God that cared for them. The manger was a sign.

"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.

God came to bring salvation.

"Come now, and let us reason together, saith the LORD: though your sins be as scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they be red like crimson, they shall be as wool." - Isaiah 1:18 KJV (Isaiah 1:19-20).

God came in the form of man so that He could shed blood for our redemption. He came to pay the price that only He could pay – sinless blood – to pay for our sins.

"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

Those that receive Jesus, believing that He is God - Creator and Savior – are able to be born again of water and of the Spirit to have our sins washed away. Though our sins were scarlet, by the blood of Jesus and by His name, they are white as snow. By the power of His Spirit, the Holy Ghost, we are able to keep victory over sin. (Acts 17:2, Acts 18:4, Acts 24:25).  

This is what Peter preached 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