Effie Darlene Barba

We can never truly appreciate the depths of Mercy, Grace and Love it required for God to pay the way for our salvation unless we first understand original sin.  Not just that which entered the world by Adam, but that which resides in our own heart today.  For that reason, this first week of reading through the scripture helps us to understand the depths of depravity that is ours as it is the whole human race.  So, quickly we want to blame society, the world, Satan, or even God for our predicament.  But I fear it is much closer and deeply embedded in our own hearts and minds. 

¹³ Let no one say when he is tempted, “I am tempted by God,” for God cannot be tempted by evil,^[o] and he himself tempts no one. ¹⁴ But each one is tempted when he is lured and enticed by his own desires. ¹⁵ Then when desire conceives, it gives birth to sin, and when sin is full grown, it gives birth to death.  James 1 (NET)

Although, it was Adam who first presented sin into the world, we must realize the depth of sin born within each heart from the moment of birth.  Does not even a baby arch his/her back in anger the moment its immediate desires are not met?  With screeching sounds and flailing arms, it demands its needs to be met immediately.  Ah, but are we not each much like that flailing, screaming baby as we demand our way through this earth.  As we begin this journey through scripture, I do think we will see our own depravity.  And thereby, also see the magnificence of God’s grace toward us.

Ephesians 2: (NKJV)

¹ And you He made alive, who were dead in trespasses and sins, ² in which you once walked according to the course of this world, according to the prince of the power of the air, the spirit who now works in the sons of disobedience, ³ among whom also we all once conducted ourselves in the lusts of our flesh, fulfilling the desires of the flesh and of the mind, and were by nature children of wrath, just as the others.

⁴ But God, who is rich in mercy, because of His great love with which He loved us, ⁵ even when we were dead in trespasses, made us alive together with Christ (by grace you have been saved), ⁶ and raised us up together, and made us sit together in the heavenly places in Christ Jesus, ⁷ that in the ages to come He might show the exceeding riches of His grace in His kindness toward us in Christ Jesus. ⁸ For by grace you have been saved through faith, and that not of yourselves; it is the gift of God, ⁹ not of works, lest anyone should boast. ¹⁰ For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand that we should walk in them.

Creation—Genesis 1 and 2

God created the world and all that was in it.   As he completed each step, He declared that it was good.  When all was finished, He declared it as very good.  There was no sin.  For God is righteous and good, there is no essence of sin in Him.  He cannot and did not create evil.  Indeed, evil is the absence of God.  Just as darkness of its own does not exist, rather it is the absence of light.  So, it is, evil is not a created being or thing, it is the absence of God’s perfect Holiness.

John McArthur said it this way:

When God created angels and God created humans, He gave them intelligence, He gave them reason, and He gave them choice.  And there is a sequence.  I put those words in that order for a purpose.

Intelligence gave them the ability to understand things.  Reason gave them the ability to process that understanding toward behavior.  And choice gave them the freedom to determine that behavior.  Intelligence, reason, and choice.  Bottom line: with what they knew, and with the ability they had to process that information, they would be brought to a choice.  And whether angels or men, they would have the choice either to obey God or not to obey God. 

Listen to this, to disobey God was to initiate evil.  Evil is not the presence of something, evil is the absence of righteousness.  You can’t create evil because evil doesn’t exist as a created entity.  It doesn’t exist as a created reality.  Evil is a negative.  Evil is the absence of perfection.  It’s the absence of holiness.  It’s the absence of goodness.  It’s the absence of righteousness.  Evil became a reality only when creatures chose to disobey.  Evil came into existence initially then in the fall of angels and then next, in the fall of Adam and Eve.[1]

John McArthur

Original Sin First Appeared in Genesis 3:

Now, first of all we know from Genesis 2:15-17 (NKJV) that God had commanded the man, saying

Of every tree of the garden, you may freely eat: but of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil you shall not eat, for in the day that you eat of it you shall surely die.”

This is an important detail, so that the responsibility of the original sin lay directly on Adam for the human race; even though, the woman was the first to doubt God (sin) and to disobey God’s command.  There would have not been a way of redemption had God not made certain of this detail to allow for the virgin birth later.  And so, we reach Genesis 3.

Now the serpent was more cunning than any beast of the field which the Lord God had made. And he said to the woman, “Has God indeed said, ‘You shall not eat of every tree of the garden’?” Genesis 3:1 NKJV

Well the first clue should have been that this animal was talking to her.  But he most likely did not look like snakes do now.  Instead, his curse was to crawl upon the earth, so more likely this creature was more like the mystical serpents described in Job.  This serpent was possessed by Satan, who had been the most beautiful angel who rebelled against God, desiring His throne.  When Satan was cast out, his anger was to destroy any good plan of God.  After all, men and women were given all of God’s love, care, and were given the ability to procreate.  Angels can’t have children. 

First step to sin is to doubt God’s Goodness and His Sovereign Will

without faith it is impossible to please Him, for he who comes to God must believe that He is, and that He is a rewarder of those who diligently seek Him.  Hebrews 11:6 (NKJV)

Yet, think of this, God walked in the Garden with them.  They had experienced His goodness, His love, and His kindness.  Yet, when Satan suggested to Eve that perhaps God was holding out the best from her, she doubted God’s goodness.  She had never seen anything but His goodness.  And certainly, knew nothing of evil, but still she listened, reasoned, and chose to eat of the tree.  Hers we can say was deception; but Adam chose knowing he was responsible for not only himself but for all the creation God had placed under his care. 

Immediately, they had shame, guilt, and feelings which they had never known.  They hid themselves from the only one who could save them. Sound familiar?  Then each one tried to blame God for their failure to follow this one command. 

Yet, God dealt with them with grace and a plan of redemption.  He killed an innocent animal to cloak their shame with a promise of redemption to one day come by grace through faith.  Adam demonstrated his faith, by naming his wife EVE (meaning life).  Before then she was known as woman, now it would be through her that the Savior would one day come, born of a Virgen. It would be Him who would crush Satan’s head.  So, at the Origin of Sin, Redemption was promised.  Adam demonstrated his first act of humility, repentance, and faith by naming his wife life. 

Another Act of Grace concerning Original Sin

Then so they would not be stuck forever in this state of living death, He kept them from the tree of life.  Only by doing this was there the chance for them to be spiritually made alive again in a relationship with Him through faith by grace.  Had they eaten of the tree of life, they would have plunged the world into an eternal state of living death. 

Original Sin and God’s Plan

God was not the author of sin; yet God could take all the sin that his creatures committed from free will and turn it around to use it for the ultimate good to all who would be saved.  And so, the story of human depravity and God’s grace began to be written on our slates of time.  His wrath for sin, cannot ever be forgotten in this story.  Afterall, it is sin that deprives humans from knowing His absolute righteousness, glory, love, and goodness.  Let us look next at Cain.  Adam and Eve must have told Cain and Abel the story; but Cain wanted to worship God his way.  He wanted God to accept his donations of fruits and vegetables.  When God did not accept His sacrifice, God told Cain,

“Why do you look so dejected? ⁷ You will be accepted if you do what is right. But if you refuse to do what is right, then watch out! Sin is crouching at the door, eager to control you. But you must subdue it and be its master.”  Genesis 4:6 (NLT)  

Lack of Repentance in Original Sin Leads to Destruction

Instead of taking heed, he killed his brother and then tried to pretend to God, he knew nothing.  So, God sent him away.  He never repented.  His prodigy continued on in choosing evil. Just as Adam, his was a willful act of disobeying God.  However, unlike Adam, Cain did not repent or seek God’s Grace. 

However, God’s plan of redemption marched on through Seth.  Yet, by 10 generations from Adam, evil reigned supreme.  Each living long lives. After all, the earth needed to be filled as God commanded.  But humanity had choice and despite all that God did that was good, they chose evil more often than not.  The descendants of Seth were lured by the beauty of the women from Cain’s descendants and forgot about God.  Only a few remained faithful, such as Enoch, Methuselah, and then Noah. 

God’s Redemptive Plan Marches on In Spite of Flawed Humanity

Then, God saw the utter depravity of the earth and determined, He must destroy it all.  Yet, for His redemptive plan to move on, He chose the one man and His family who did still worship God.  So, Noah built the boat, the flood came and everyone else was destroyed apart from Noah and his family.  Despite all this, once this was over.  Noah sacrificed to God and then he got drunk.  One of his sons entered the room to find his father naked and looked upon him with lust.  Original sin still lay in the hearts of humans. 

As time went on, through all the corridors of time, men and women were born that chose to follow their own fleshly desires rather than God.  Still God continues His plan.

There were some who decided they were strong enough to build a city to heaven, so God confounded the languages.  Many went off to worship idols, yet God called Abraham out from idol worship to follow Him.  Despite all his flaws, God step by step guided Abraham to a place of deep faith.  Abraham was willing to humble, repent, and follow God’s guidance.  He made many mistakes along the way, but through him would come the Messiah one day. 

Original Sin and Why we must understand it before we know of grace

All too often we want to say that sin is because of circumstances, society, or even that “Satan made me do it”.  But it is much more than that.  It is a desire deep within to prove my worth. Or to rise up to declare, I have the rights to better or more.  That displays how little I understand.  Much like the newborn baby demanding his needs be met, I demand what I want.  Never remembering the goodness of God.  So, quickly I forget the times He held steadfast in His love while I chased after foolish things I thought would satisfy.  He has been all I ever needed and only in Him am I made complete. 

I can never know the depths of sin that were placed upon Him, until I am willing to look honestly at my own heart.  How often do I fall short of His righteousness?  Or doubt His plan for me?  These are those moments when I, like Eve fail to shout to Satan, “I know my Heavenly Father is good.  His love is perfect, and I rejoice in Him, whatever else may come.  I stand in awe of His love and grace toward me.”  One day I will look like Him, He will finish all that He has planned in me.  I will stand upon His promises in Romans 8 and Ephesians to tell me who I am in Him.

Romans 8: (NKJV)

There is therefore now no condemnation to those who are in Christ Jesus, who^[a] do not walk according to the flesh, but according to the Spirit. ² For the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus has made me free from the law of sin and death. …⁹you are not in the flesh but in the Spirit, if indeed the Spirit of God dwells in you. Now if anyone does not have the Spirit of Christ, he is not His. ¹⁰ And if Christ is in you, the body is dead because of sin, but the Spirit is life because of righteousness. ¹¹ But if the Spirit of Him who raised Jesus from the dead dwells in you, He who raised Christ from the dead will also give life to your mortal bodies through His Spirit who dwells in you….

²⁸ And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose. ²⁹ For whom He foreknew, He also predestined to be conformed to the image of His Son…³⁸ For I am persuaded that neither death nor life, nor angels nor principalities nor powers, nor things present nor things to come, ³⁹ nor height nor depth, nor any other created thing, shall be able to separate us from the love of God which is in Christ Jesus our Lord.

Ephesians 1 (NKJV)

³ Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us with every spiritual blessing in the heavenly places in Christ. ⁴ Just as He chose us in Him before the foundation of the world. That we should be holy and without blame before Him in love. ⁵ Having predestined us to adoption as sons by Jesus Christ to Himself, according to the good pleasure of His will, ⁶ to the praise of the glory of His grace, by which He made us accepted in the Beloved.

⁷ In Him we have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of sins, according to the riches of His grace ⁸ which He made to abound toward us in all wisdom and prudence, ⁹ having made known to us the mystery of His will, according to His good pleasure which He purposed in Himself, ¹⁰ that in the dispensation of the fullness of the times He might gather together in one all things in Christ, both which are in heaven and which are on earth—in Him.

¹¹ In Him also we have obtained an inheritance, being predestined according to the purpose of Him who works all things according to the counsel of His will, ¹² that we who first trusted in Christ should be to the praise of His glory.

DO YOU KNOW CHRIST AS YOUR SAVIOR AND LORD? He is our only Hope in Life and Death! Our Joy is found in Him.

Therefore if you don’t know Jesus Christ as your Savior and Lord: I urge you today. Go to my page titled How to Be Saved by clicking on this link. There is nothing more important than this; because He is the way, the truth and the life. Therefore, I urge you to seek Him today.

For Prayer or Comments

If you have a prayer request feel free to email me by clicking here

Furthermore, if you would like to share your story or thoughts, you can comment here

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How is the Glory of God Really Our Greatest Pleasure?

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DISCLOSURES

©Effie Darlene Barba, 2023
Disclosure of Material Connection: I have not received any compensation for writing this post. Furthermore, I have no material connection to the brands, products, or services that I have mentioned except for my own books. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.

Credits

New King James Version (NKJV)

Scripture taken from the New King James Version®. Copyright © 1982 by Thomas Nelson. Used by permission. All rights reserved.

New Living Translation (NLT)

Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright © 1996, 2004, 2015 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.

English Standard Version (ESV)

The Holy Bible, English Standard Version. ESV® Text Edition: 2016. Copyright © 2001 by Crossway Bibles, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers.

Photo licensed through Goodsalt.com

[1] C.S. Lewis, Mere Christianity, (New York: HarperCollins, 1952), 47-48

[1] https://www.gty.org/library/sermons-library/90-235/the-origin-of-evil

We fail to recognize that really our greatest pleasure, joy, and hope in this life is found in a close relationship with God our creator.  He designed us to live in relationship with Him.  The more we know of Him, the more joyous and peaceful our life will be.  As we come to see the Glory of God in all His attributes, our greatest pleasure is realized.  Hence, that pleasure reflects back to Him, shining forth the Glory of God like a beam of eternal light into the darkness of this world. 

In the End for Which God Created the World, Jonathan Edwards wrote, “In the creature’s knowing, esteeming, loving, rejoicing in, and praising God, the glory of God is both exhibited and acknowledged, his fullness is received and returned.  Here is both an emanation and remanation (returning, reabsorption).  The refulgence shines upon and into the creature and is reflected back to the luminary.  The beams of glory come from God, are something of God, and are refunded back again to their original.  So that the whole is of God, and in God, and to God; and he is the beginning, and the middle, and the end.” 

The Glory of God in Creation

He spoke and in a second of time, all the universes came into being.  God, the triune head (Father, Son, and Holy Spirit).  Elohim spoke and upon His Word, the earth was formed.  “in the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God and the Word was God.” John 1:1. Each detail laid out in preparation for His masterpiece which was man.  With such detail He also formed the perfect helpmate in the beauty of a woman to complement—the perfect couple.  Of everything He created, He said “and it was very good.” 

Yet, by Genesis 3, this perfectly good man and woman who had no sin within them fell by disobeying the one command God had given them.  You see God knows that the greatest love must also involve choice to love.  God is Sovereign and could have prevented this; yet He chose to proceed.

C.S. Lewis in Mere Christianity wrote:

“God created things which had free will.  That means creatures can go either wrong or right.  Some people think they can imagine a creature which was free but had no possibility of going wrong; I cannot.  If a thing is free to be good it is also free to be bad. And free will is what has made evil possible.  Why, then, did God give them free will? Because free will though it makes evil possible, is also the only thing that makes possible any love or goodness or joy worth having.  A world of automata-of creatures that worked like machines-would hardly be worth creating. The happiness which God designs for His higher creatures is the happiness of being freely, voluntarily united to Him and to each in an ecstasy of love delight compared with which the most rapturous love between a man and a woman on this earth is mere milk and water.   And for that they must be free

C. S. Lewis [1]

The Glory of God enlarged by Choice

Without free will, we could never understand nor experience perfect love, joy, hope, or glory.  Instead, we would be like robots wandering about the planet with no depth of feeling and no reasoning. Lewis goes on to say:

Of course, God knew what would happen if they used their freedom the wrong way: apparently, He thought it worth the risk.  Perhaps we feel inclined to disagree with Him.  But there is a difficulty about disagreeing with God. He is the source from which all your reasoning power comes: you could not be right, and He wrong any more than a stream can rise higher than its own source.  When you are arguing against Him you are arguing against the very power that makes you able to argue at all: it is like cutting off the branch you are sitting on.If God thinks this state of war in the universe a price worth paying for free will—that is, for making a live world in which creatures can do real good or harm and something of real importance can happen, instead of a toy world which only moves when He pulls the strings—then we may take it is worth paying.[2] (C. Lewis 1952)

The Glory of God Hates Evil; yet allowed it for our Greatest Pleasure and His Glory

Therefore, God was never the author of evil. Y et, when given the freedom to choose, Adam chose sin through his own volition.  Every human being since then is presented with the same choice.  Since we are free to choose. We no longer can we blame God. Rather it is our own choice.  Indeed, God could have brought immediate judgment upon the earth; after all, He could see through the corridors of time all the evil that men and women would choose.  However, He also could see through the corridors of time, everyone who would accept His gift of salvation.  His overwhelming love for each one of them caused Him to stay His hand of judgment. He continues to steady His hand, today.   Had He not, you nor I would be here to even discuss this.

GOD’S SOVEREIGN GRACE

He could have just turned His back upon the whole of creation.  However, He did not do that either.  Instead, He provided a way for man to choose Him through faith.  From Genesis until now; God has provided a way for mankind to be saved from the evil within their own hearts and the world around them, through faith in Jesus Christ.  The Old Testament looked forward to His coming by faith; and we, look back to see His completed work.  As Paul presented in Romans, everyone is given a chose; because, God reveals Himself to each.  Read Paul’s defense:

I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ: … it is the power of God unto salvation to every one that believeth …. therein is the righteousness of God revealed from faith to faith: as it is written, the just shall live by faith.  For the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men, who hold the truth in unrighteousness; Because that which may be known of God is manifest in them; for God hath shewed it unto them. 

               For the invisible things of him from the creation of the world are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made, even his eternal power and Godhead; so that they are without excuse: Because that, when they knew God, they glorified him not as God, neither were thankful; but became vain in their imaginations, and their foolish heart was darkened. Professing themselves to be wise, they became fools, who changed the truth of God into a lie, and worshipped and served the creature more than the Creator. (Romans 1:16-25).

Sovereignty Vs Prayer

I see the free will vs God’s Sovereignty much as I do God’s Sovereignty vs Prayer.  Never am I not to pray earnestly, believing that prayer changes things.  God commands as much. Yet, in that same moment I know God is Sovereign and already has a plan in place.  His Omniscience already knows the answer.  Just because, I am confined within this time/space continuum of humanity on earth does not negate that both are true at the same time with the same magnitude. 

 “Faith is the substance of things hoped for and the evidence of things not seen” (Hebrews 11:1).

My salvation He orchestrated, planned, and carried out.  100% it was His grace and nothing that my guilty hands could have performed.  He compelled my heart to desire and want Him.  And now it is He who transforms my heart.  Yet, each day He gives me the freedom to choose His word, His presence or to leave His love letters laying idle on the shelf.  Even then, He will accomplish all that He has planned in my life.  Much like the children of Israel who so often rebelled, worshiped idols, and walked away from God.  Yet, that did not thwart God’s plan that He would bring salvation through the seed of Abraham to all who would believe, both Jew and Gentile

The Glory of God in Redemption

Jesus  is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn^[ over all creation,
¹⁶ for all things in heaven and on earth were created in him—all things, whether visible or invisible, whether thrones or dominions, whether principalities or powers—all things were created through him and for him.
¹⁷ He himself is before all things and all things are held togetherin him.
¹⁸ He is the head of the body, the church, as well as the beginning, the firstbornfrom the dead, so that he himself may become first in all things.
¹⁹ For Godwas pleased to have all hisfullness dwellin the Son
²⁰ and through him to reconcile all things to himself by making peace through the blood of his cross—through him, whether things on earth or things in heaven.  Colossians 1 (NET)

The Glory of God is our Greatest Pleasure

For the Almighty God, who, as even the heathen acknowledge, has supreme power over all things, being Himself supremely good, would never permit the existence of anything evil among His works, if He were not so omnipotent and good that He can bring good even out of evil”[3] (Augustine 1961)

For I reckon that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory which shall be revealed in us. (Romans 8:18)

Yea doubtless, and I count all things but loss for the excellency of the knowledge of Christ Jesus my Lord: for whom I have suffered the loss of all things, and do count them but dung, that I may win Christ (Philippians 3:8).

God has a purpose and a plan which is for our good.  Evil exists in this world; yet, without it would I really know the ecstasy of knowing Jesus.  Only God can take a broken life, filled with wrong choices, and still make it one filled with hope, love and joy.

So, in this world so desperately in need of hope and real joy, we must take time to learn of Him.  That is why we are embarking on this journey together this year. 

DO YOU KNOW CHRIST AS YOUR SAVIOR AND LORD? He is our only Hope in Life and Death! Our Joy is found in Him.

Therefore if you don’t know Jesus Christ as your Savior and Lord: I urge you today. Go to my page titled How to Be Saved by clicking on this link. There is nothing more important than this; because He is the way, the truth and the life. Therefore, I urge you to seek Him today.

For Prayer or Comments

If you have a prayer request feel free to email me by clicking here

Furthermore, if you would like to share your story or thoughts, you can comment here

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How Was the Wondrous Mystery Revealed in the Miracle of Jesus Birth

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DISCLOSURES

©Effie Darlene Barba, 2021
Disclosure of Material Connection: I have not received any compensation for writing this post. Furthermore, I have no material connection to the brands, products, or services that I have mentioned except for my own books. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.

Credits

New King James Version (NKJV)

Scripture taken from the New King James Version®. Copyright © 1982 by Thomas Nelson. Used by permission. All rights reserved.

New Living Translation (NLT)

Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright © 1996, 2004, 2015 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.

English Standard Version (ESV)

The Holy Bible, English Standard Version. ESV® Text Edition: 2016. Copyright © 2001 by Crossway Bibles, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers.

Photo licensed through Goodsalt.com

[1] C.S. Lewis, Mere Christianity, (New York: HarperCollins, 1952), 47-48

[2] Lewis, Christianity, 47-48

[3] Augustine, Enchiridion on Faith, Hope, and Love, trans. J.F. Shaw, (Chicago: Henry Reguery, 1961), 11

It had been 400 years since any major announcements from God came.  No new prophets to guide the people.  Had God forgotten His promises?  Was He lax in His fulfillment of all His covenant promises?  Let me ask you. Have you ever felt abandoned by God?  Deep within my heart, I long for His return.  Perhaps I would say it is because of all that is going on around me.  But truth be told, it is more because of all that goes on within me.  The more I know of Him, the clearer I see how far my heart is from truly loving as I should.  My impatience and flaws glare back at me.  I long to be transformed.  Yet, there was a wondrous mystery revealed clearly by the miracle of Jesus Birth, life, death, and resurrection.  How was it revealed and what can that mean for me and you?

Silence did not mean that God was not at work preparing the stage for the Birth of Jesus and the Church’s ministry.  During the 400 years, the prophecies of Daniel had marched forward exactly as foretold.  It was during this period that the people faced many invasions and trials.  There came a moment when “Antiochus IV Epiphanes offered a pig to the Olympian God Zeus in the Holy of Holies.  His actions ignited the Maccabean revolt that resulted in a period of independence (for Israel).  That freedom survived until Rome (the fourth empire) sent her armies to capture Jerusalem and to establish Roman rule through governors granted power by the Emperor”[1]

“Judaism changed dramatically during the silent years.  The former idolatries that had driven the nation into exile were no longer tolerated.  Chasidim (“separate ones”) began to demand purity and a return to God’s Word.”[2]

The Wondrous Mystery

        Roads were built.  Languages spread.  Civilizations grew in knowledge and trade.  All laid the perfect groundwork for what was to come next.  The mystery of the church was about to be born. 

        Then, the silence was broken as John the Baptist was miraculously born.  The prophet chosen to announce the Messiah to the world. 

In those days John the Baptist came preaching in the wilderness of Judea, ² and saying, “Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand!” ³ For this is he who was spoken of by the prophet Isaiah, saying:

“The voice of one crying in the wilderness:
‘Prepare the way of the Lord;
Make His paths straight.’ ”

⁴ Now John himself was clothed in camel’s hair, with a leather belt around his waist; and his food was locusts and wild honey. ⁵ Then Jerusalem, all Judea, and all the region around the Jordan went out to him ⁶ and were baptized by him in the Jordan, confessing their sins.   Matthew 3 (NKJV)

Did John Know the Wondrous Mystery?

Did John fully realize that Jesus would usher in the church age?  Most likely he was not aware of all that was to come.  He knew that Jesus was the Messiah.  Jews believed He was coming to free them from Roman tyranny.  They did not believe He must first free them from their own tyrannous hearts.  John at first may not have been aware that Jesus came to die on a cross.  He was to be the perfect sacrifice to wash away the sins of the world. Truly only Jesus could pay the penalty of sin for human race, erasing their debt and providing a means of atonement.  Only Jesus could wash their hearts whiter than snow, cloaking them in His righteousness.  He did that for all even knowing that only some would accept this gift and others would reject His perfect gift of love. 

Yet the Mystery Was Revealed:

Even though God knew some would choose their own selfish hearts and desires over His gift of Glory.  He knew some would want to do it their way, to pride to bow in repentance.  Despite His knowing all this, He still sent His Son to pay the price for all humanity.  But you see, salvation cannot be theirs until they by faith believe that God is and humbly repent knowing He is the only way, the truth, and the life.  In spite of all those who would reject Him, He still ushered in the church age to spread the good news of the gospel to the whole world. 

“The Church Age” was not named as such, yet.  However, it is the mystery Paul so often writes of.

Ephesians 3: (NLT)

³ As I briefly wrote earlier, God himself revealed his mysterious plan to me. ⁴ As you read what I have written, you will understand my insight into this plan regarding Christ. ⁵ God did not reveal it to previous generations, but now by his Spirit he has revealed it to his holy apostles and prophets.

⁶ And this is God’s plan: Both Gentiles and Jews who believe the Good News share equally in the riches inherited by God’s children. Both are part of the same body, and both enjoy the promise of blessings because they belong to Christ Jesus. ⁷ By God’s grace and mighty power, I have been given the privilege of serving him by spreading this Good News.

⁸ Though I am the least deserving of all God’s people, he graciously gave me the privilege of telling the Gentiles about the endless treasures available to them in Christ. ⁹ I was chosen to explain to everyonethis mysterious plan that God, the Creator of all things, had kept secret from the beginning.

¹⁰ God’s purpose in all this was to use the church to display his wisdom in its rich variety to all the unseen rulers and authorities in the heavenly places. ¹¹ This was his eternal plan, which he carried out through Christ Jesus our Lord.

¹² Because of Christ and our faith in him,we can now come boldly and confidently into God’s presence. ¹³ So please don’t lose heart because of my trials here. I am suffering for you, so you should feel honored.

The Wondrous Mystery Revealed in The Miracle of Jesus Birth

Would anyone think it a chance happenstance that Joseph and Mary were sent to travel to Bethlehem at the exact time Jesus was to be born?  The decree came from the Roman Government, and they had no choice but to comply.  Ah, so who had the Roman Government make such a decree? Was it God Himself? Though the Roman officials that it was their order.  They were unaware, God was on His Throne even in what they did.  God does that.  He is in control of all, even when the worst of rulers perform their evil.  God has them in perfect checkmate all the same.   

So, Mary and Joseph obeying the decree went to Bethlehem.  After all, it had been prophesied that Jesus would come from Bethlehem.  But it was much more than merely  that.   The sacrificial lambs were birthed in a manger in Bethlehem where they were carefully wrapped in “swaddling clothes” and laid in the manger to keep them free from any blemish.  How perfect that there was no inn for Mary and Joseph!  Jesus was the perfect, unblemished sacrificial lamb who came to pay the price for our sins once and for all.   It is no wonder the shepherds were told first, and they knew where to go.  They would understand. To them was revealed the fullness of the mystery.  

Luke 2:8-18

⁸ Now there were in the same country shepherds living out in the fields, keeping watch over their flock by night. ⁹ And behold, an angel of the Lord stood before them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were greatly afraid. ¹⁰ Then the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid, for behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy which will be to all people. ¹¹ For there is born to you this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord. ¹² And this will be the sign to you: You will find a Babe wrapped in swaddling cloths, lying in a manger.”

¹³ And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God and saying:

¹⁴ “Glory to God in the highest,
And on earth peace, goodwilltoward men!”

¹⁵ So it was, when the angels had gone away from them into heaven, that the shepherds said to one another, “Let us now go to Bethlehem and see this thing that has come to pass, which the Lord has made known to us.” ¹⁶ And they came with haste and found Mary and Joseph, and the Babe lying in a manger. ¹⁷ Now when they had seen Him, they made widely known the saying which was told them concerning this Child. ¹⁸ And all those who heard it marveled at those things which were told them by the shepherds. ¹⁹ But Mary kept all these things and pondered them in her heart. ²⁰ Then the shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things that they had heard and seen, as it was told them.

What about Mary? Did she know the wondrous mystery?

Did she know her son was the sacrificial lamb?  Or was that sorrow withheld from her?  How hard would that have been to know.  Yet, she pondered what the shepherds said in her heart.  She would come to realize this, but perhaps God graciously hid this truth from her for a while.  It would have been a burden too great for a human mother’s heart.  He had to prepare her for that part of the wondrous mystery and miracle of Jesus’s purpose and place on earth.

The Wondrous Mystery of Salvation

Jesus Christ left all the Glory of Heaven to come to earth that He might be the perfect Son of Man and still be Son of God.  Only He could pay the price for our sin.  What love is that!  Yet, it was exactly the day Daniel foretold that Jesus rode into Jerusalem on a donkey as also foretold by the prophets.  Every detail, so exact that he might be the perfect sacrifice.  And He bowed His head, declaring “It is Finished” at the exact moment that lambs began to be sacrificed at the temple.  The earthquake tore the curtain in two.  Everything had been dark for 3 hours as the wrath of God poured out upon His Son.  The wrath that should have been mine. 

Oh, perhaps there are moments when I think I am doing so much better, and then it takes only one day to flip it all upside down and I remember how wretched my heart really is.  Then I am reminded.

Romans 8: 18-25

¹⁸ For I consider that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory which shall be revealed in us. ¹⁹ For the earnest expectation of the creation eagerly waits for the revealing of the sons of God. ²⁰ For the creation was subjected to futility, not willingly, but because of Him who subjected it in hope; ²¹ because the creation itself also will be delivered from the bondage of ^[f^]corruption into the glorious liberty of the children of God. ²² For we know that the whole creation groans and labors with birth pangs together until now.

²³ Not only that, but we also who have the firstfruits of the Spirit, even we ourselves groan within ourselves, eagerly waiting for the adoption, the redemption of our body. ²⁴ For we were saved in this hope, but hope that is seen is not hope; for why does one still hope for what he sees? ²⁵ But if we hope for what we do not see, we eagerly wait for it with perseverance.

Oh, how my heart moans for His return.  Only then will my heart be able to purely love as He loves.  I will one day look like Him.  And I long for that day when I no longer love with this imperfect heart.  Then, I will understand it all.  What a glorious day that will be.  Until then, my greatest desire is to know Him more each day.  And to shine for His light into a dark world in need of a Savior.  Until that glorious day I will pray to delight always in Him so I might rest in His love, hence glowing forth His grace to all of whom I meet.

And What is that Wondrous Mystery Revealed in the Birth Of Jesus?

¹⁵ He is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn over all creation. ¹⁶ For by Him all things were created that are in heaven and that are on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or dominions or principalities or powers. All things were created through Him and for Him. ¹⁷ And He is before all things, and in Him all things consist. ¹⁸ And He is the head of the body, the church, who is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead, that in all things He may have the preeminence.

¹⁹ For it pleased the Father that in Him all the fullness should dwell, ²⁰ and by Him to reconcile all things to Himself, by Him, whether things on earth or things in heaven, having made peace through the blood of His cross.

²¹ And you, who once were alienated and enemies in your mind by wicked works, yet now He has reconciled ²² in the body of His flesh through death, to present you holy, and blameless, and above reproach in His sight   Colossians 1 (NKJV).

DO YOU KNOW CHRIST AS YOUR SAVIOR AND LORD? He is our only Hope in Life and Death! Our Joy is found in Him.

Therefore if you don’t know Jesus Christ as your Savior and Lord: I urge you today. Go to my page titled How to Be Saved by clicking on this link. There is nothing more important than this; because He is the way, the truth and the life. Therefore, I urge you to seek Him today.

For Prayer or Comments

If you have a prayer request feel free to email me by clicking here

Furthermore, if you would like to share your story or thoughts, you can comment here

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How to Really Trust the Bible as the Living Word of God

DISCLOSURES

©Effie Darlene Barba, 2021
Disclosure of Material Connection: I have not received any compensation for writing this post. Furthermore, I have no material connection to the brands, products, or services that I have mentioned except for my own books. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.

Credits

New King James Version (NKJV)

Scripture taken from the New King James Version®. Copyright © 1982 by Thomas Nelson. Used by permission. All rights reserved.

New Living Translation (NLT)

Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright © 1996, 2004, 2015 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.

English Standard Version (ESV)

The Holy Bible, English Standard Version. ESV® Text Edition: 2016. Copyright © 2001 by Crossway Bibles, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers.

Photo licensed through Goodsalt.com

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[1] May, Iva; The 14 Eras: Copyright 2009, page 28

[2] IBID.

        There is Nothing or No one more beautiful, valuable, significant nor satisfying that God.  His Glory is to be desired above all else, because only He can truly fulfill the desires of our hearts.  After all He created our hearts to be in perfect harmony with Him.  Everything else we experience of hope, joy, delight, and beauty are experienced best through having an intimate relationship with Him.  But what is His Glory?  The perfect harmonious, immutable manifestations of His attributes displayed in all He created.  He further gifted us with the Living Word of God in Scriptures to help us see His Glory.  But can we really trust the Bible as the Living Word of God?  How has He left His indelible imprints on our Bible, so we might know it is truly His Words written?  Furthermore, why is any of that important?

Jonathan Edwards dissertation, The End for Which God Created the World, presents deep truths from God’s Word. This dissertation concludes that God Created the World to display His glory and to share that Glory with His creation.  The greatest joy of “the creature” is experiences God’s fullness and magnifying His Glory.

He Wrote:

“Thus, it is easy to conceive, how God should seek the good of the creature, consisting in the creature’s knowledge and holiness, and even his happiness, from a supreme regard to Himself as his happiness arises from that which is an image and participation of God’s own beauty. And consists in the creature’s exercising a supreme regard to God, and complacence in Him; in beholding God’s glory, in esteeming and loving it, and rejoicing in it, and in His exercising and testifying love and supreme respect to God: which is the same thing, with the creature’s exalting God as his chief good, and making Him his supreme end.”[1]

The Living Word of God

Therefore, if union with God is the greatest end and the guarantee of our greatest joy, we should desire to know His Word.  Yet, we live in a world where which tries to say “my truth is truth but may not be the same as yours.  We each have our own truth.” That is unless of course you say that Jesus and the Bible are true.  Then they say, “you are a bigot or idiot.”   The sad part is there are many within the church who do not believe that the Bible is the inerrant word of God.  However the word itself speaks of itself.

The entirety of Your word is truth,
And every one of Your righteous judgments endures forever.  Psalm 119:160

16 All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness:17 That the man of God may be perfect, thoroughly furnished unto all good works. 2 Timothy 3

As Peter wrote:

16 For we have not followed cunningly devised fables, when we made known unto you the power and coming of our Lord Jesus Christ, but were eyewitnesses of his majesty.17 For he received from God the Father honour and glory, when there came such a voice to him from the excellent glory, This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased.18 And this voice which came from heaven we heard, when we were with him in the holy mount.

19 We have also a more sure word of prophecy; whereunto ye do well that ye take heed, as unto a light that shineth in a dark place, until the day dawn, and the day star arise in your hearts:20 Knowing this first, that no prophecy of the scripture is of any private interpretation. 21 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:

Jesus also confirmed the truth of the Old Testament.  He quoted it throughout His ministry.  He also said,

17 Think not that I am come to destroy the law, or the prophets: I am not come to destroy, but to fulfil. 18 For verily I say unto you, Till heaven and earth pass, one jot or one tittle shall in no wise pass from the law, till all be fulfilled.  Matthew

Hence either the entire Bible is true, or all just a fairytale.  There is no in-between.  We either believe that God inspired His word to be written and preserved by Himself or not.

Trust the Bible Because of It Miraculous Consistency

The Bible was written through 40 different men, over a period of 1600 years, across three continents and in 3 languages. Yet, they perfectly harmoniously all proclaim the same truth which is the one eternal story of redemption.   For that many men to proclaim the same truth proclaimed through so many different voices, yet all miraculously consistent.  Each book of the Bible confirms the rest—that is scripture interprets scripture as all is consistent in message. Imagine getting 40 men together in the same room and have them all write about something they just witnessed.  Now spread them across the world, with different and during different historical ages.

Furthermore, some would have said that it was impossible that Moses wrote the first five books of the Bible. (Even though these were narrated to Him by God.) Their argument was to say no one knew how to write at that time.   Yet, God had arranged that Moses grow up in the King’s palace as royalty in Egypt.  There he had learned to write. 

The Dead Sea Scrolls Provide More Proof to Trust the Bible

The early writers wrote their manuscripts on papyrus, a tall water plant that was soaked, pressed, and dried to form paper.  However, due to heat and dampness, the manuscripts didn’t have much of a shelf life.  Every so many years, people meticulously hand copied the originals in order for others to read and circulate them. When, in 1947, a shepherd boy wandered into a mountain cave in the Qumrān desert of Israel, he found two large clay jars that contained ancient scrolls—now called The Dead Sea Scrolls—Old Testament scripture 1,000 years older than any manuscripts we previously had. Because they had been sealed in the jars and stored in the dry, desert cave, the manuscripts survived in perfect condition, and were made of leather, papyrus, and copper.

It was to be one of the most important archeological discoveries of the 20th century and astonished the world. For the next nine years, scholars and archeologists found manuscripts in 12 nearby caves. Over 900 texts were discovered, some fragile and in pieces, written in Hebrew, Aramaic, and Greek. … When Biblical scholars compared these manuscripts with modern translations, they were 99.5% accurately the same. The.5% differences proved to be minor spelling and grammar—nothing that changed the meaning of the sentences or words.[2]

Historical and Archaeological Proof to Trust the Bible

The Bible is full of dates, times, names, cities, reading like a detailed history book at times.  Why is that amazing?  Well, when one places so much detail, it can be disproven were it not true.  Yet even those parts some wanted to deny have been confirmed through archaeological digs.  Nothing in the Bible has been Archaeologically nor historically shown to be inaccurate.

Historians in Jesus day included Cornelius Tacitus, Flavius Josephus, Suetonius, Pliny the Younger, and Thallus wrote about the travels of a “Jesus of Nazareth, His miracles, and the persecution of the early Christian Church.  All confirming the historical facts in the Bible.  This despite their not being believers themselves. 

Furthermore, the prophecies of the Old Testament all came true exactly as predicted.  No other religion can say that is true.  Many of the prophecies were proclaimed hundreds and thousands of years before their fulfillment—yet none have failed to be true.  Even the most detailed history of governments stood true.

All of These Do Not Compare to this Proof We can Trust the Bible

John the Baptist had spent his life proclaiming the coming of Jesus Christ.  He also witnessed the voice of God saying, “this is my son, in whom I am well pleased” as he baptized Jesus.  Yet, after all this when sitting in jail, John the Baptist had one moment of doubt.  Perhaps he too had wondered if Jesus had come to set the people free from Roman suppression.  But that was not the plan for that moment.  The mystery not understood by the Jewish nation was that God had a plan for the Gentiles.  He had told them throughout the Old Testament, but they had not heard.  Yet now John the Baptist, sitting all alone in jail had a question.

20 John’s two disciples found Jesus and said to him, “John the Baptist sent us to ask, ‘Are you the Messiah we’ve been expecting, or should we keep looking for someone else?’”21 At that very time, Jesus cured many people of their diseases, illnesses, and evil spirits, and he restored sight to many who were blind. 22 Then he told John’s disciples, “Go back to John and tell him what you have seen and heard—the blind see, the lame walk, those with leprosy are cured, the deaf hear, the dead are raised to life, and the Good News is being preached to the poor.”   Luke 7

We Have Seen Lives Transformed

No Other Proof Compares to the Fact that the Bible Transforms lives, shining light into the darkness. 

5 For we preach not ourselves, but Christ Jesus the Lord; and ourselves your servants for Jesus’ sake. 6 For God, who commanded the light to shine out of darkness, hath shined in our hearts, to give the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ. 7 But we have this treasure in earthen vessels, that the excellency of the power may be of God, and not of us.                         2 Corinthians 4:

All of this, all of life is as noted by Jonathan Edward, in the “Miscellanies” in the Works of Jonathan Edwards, vol 13

“God is glorified not only by His glory’s being seen, but by its being rejoiced in. When those that see it delight in it, God is more glorified than if they only see it. His glory is then received by the whole soul, both by the understanding and by the heart. God made the world that He might communicate, and the creature receive, His glory; and that it might [be] received both by the mind and heart. He that testifies his idea of God’s glory [doesn’t] glorify God so much as he that testifies also his approbation of it and his delight in it. Jonathan Edwards Miscellanies”[3]

¹⁸ But we all, with open face beholding as in a glass the glory of the Lord, are changed into the same image from glory to glory, even as by the Spirit of the Lord.  2 Corinthians 3:

Ultimate Proof that We can Trust the Bible

¹² For the word of God is living and powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing even to the division of soul and spirit, and of joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart.  Hebrews 4 (NKJV)

The real proof that we can trust the Bible as the Living Word of God is how it transforms a broken sinner such as I.  When I am frightened, angry, frustrated, or depressed; all I need to do is spend time alone with God in His Word and my heart transforms.  Joy replaces desperation as I recognize I have everything that I need in Him and that He is my Joy.  Nothing else can transform a heart like His Word, because it is living and powerful. It cuts deep into the crevices of my heart and soul. There I have found a steadfast, abiding joy. I believe because I have felt His comforting arms holding me in the darkest nights. Awakened by His singing a lullaby or speaking His Word into my mind and heart in the middle of the night, I feel His love.

DO YOU KNOW CHRIST AS YOUR SAVIOR AND LORD? He is our only Hope in Life and Death! Our Joy is found in Him.

Therefore if you don’t know Jesus Christ as your Savior and Lord: I urge you today. Go to my page titled How to Be Saved by clicking on this link. There is nothing more important than this; because He is the way, the truth and the life. Therefore, I urge you to seek Him today.

For Prayer or Comments

If you have a prayer request feel free to email me by clicking here

Furthermore, if you would like to share your story or thoughts, you can comment here

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Why Must Worship Really Begin with Deep Knowledge of All God Is?

DISCLOSURES

©Effie Darlene Barba, 2021
Disclosure of Material Connection: I have not received any compensation for writing this post. Furthermore, I have no material connection to the brands, products, or services that I have mentioned except for my own books. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.

Credits

New King James Version (NKJV)

Scripture taken from the New King James Version®. Copyright © 1982 by Thomas Nelson. Used by permission. All rights reserved.

New Living Translation (NLT)

Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright © 1996, 2004, 2015 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.

English Standard Version (ESV)

The Holy Bible, English Standard Version. ESV® Text Edition: 2016. Copyright © 2001 by Crossway Bibles, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers.

Photo licensed through Goodsalt.com

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[1] Edwards, Jonathan, The End For Which God Created the World, https://www.monergism.com/dissertation-concerning-end-which-god-created-world-jonathan-edwards, accessed 12/10/2022

[2] Dr. Lissa Forney, What is the Bible and Why Should We Study It.

[3]John Piper, God’s Passion for His Glory: Living the Vision of Jonathan Edwards https://www.goodreads.com/quotes/3991633-god-is-glorified-not-only-by-his-glory-s-being-seen

        We study the Bible sometimes without understanding why apart from we should. Therefore, what is the true purpose that God should have left us His Word? Could it be therein we might gain a deep Knowledge of All God is? He, who resides outside of time and space, created all things, knows all things provided us with words of truth about His character.  Like a treasure map to living life more fully.  After all is that not the most important thing?  To become all that we are in Him. “for in Him we live and move and have our being” Acts 17:28.

Jean Paul Sartre wrote: “Being and Nothingness”, speaking of humanity’s search for meaning and purpose. Spiritually dead, we wander around in a world of nothingness, where everything seems to lose its meaning, always in search of being or becoming.   Yet, in God, we are made spiritually alive and only in Him do we truly find our being. 

God, knowing how difficult this time in history would be, provided us a way through.  He mapped out a plan to guide us.  A major part of that plan is to gain a deep knowledge of All God IS, so we can face every trial.  Could He not have just thwarted the difficult times?  Yes, but then would we be all we could be devoid of any trials?

Seeking to Gain a Deep Knowledge of All God IS.

¹² Yes, and all who desire to live godly in Christ Jesus will suffer persecution. ¹³ But evil men and impostors will grow worse and worse, deceiving and being deceived. ¹⁴ But you must continue in the things which you have learned and been assured of, knowing from whom you have learned them, ¹⁵ and that from childhood you have known the Holy Scriptures, which are able to make you wise for salvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus.¹⁶ All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness, ¹⁷ that the man of God may be complete, thoroughly equipped for every good work.  2 Timothy 3 (NKJV). 

But it goes even deeper than that.  The Word is God—all that He has spoken displays the essence of WHO GOD IS.  He who spoke everything into being chose to come to earth and take on the form of human flesh that He might provide the way of salvation. 

JOHN 1:

1 In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. ² He was in the beginning with God. ³ All things were made through Him, and without Him nothing was made that was made. ⁴ In Him was life, and the life was the light of men. ⁵ And the light shines in the darkness, and the darkness did not ^[a]comprehend it….¹⁴ And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we beheld His glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father, full of grace and truth.

The story of creation begins with God, ELOHIM, the triune God.  He was always there.  For each part of the creation, the Bible says, “Then God said, let there be” and it was.  At His Word—all the stars and galaxies suddenly went flying forth from His lips into being—each into its place.  We can never on this earth bound by time and space, fully grasp or understand all God is; but we can obtain enough deep knowledge so as to yearn for and to love Him.  Thereby, discovering the true meaning of our own existence.  We are so much more than our food, drink, jobs, and style. 

The Bible Paves the Way to a Deep Knowledge of All God Is.

Therefore, what is the most important reason to study God’s Word.  It is to come to Know Him, that we might have a deep knowledge of all He IS.  Without that, all our theology falls apart.  Idolatrous worship is our making a God of our own ideas of who He is.  We cannot truly worship Him without a deep knowledge of who God Is.  Think about all the prophets.  They fell on the ground in utter humility when they saw Him, truly saw Him. 

Jesus came to earth.  The perfect, righteous Holy God humbled Himself to become a helpless baby, to face every temptation that could face a man and yet not sin.  Thereby becoming the perfect sacrifice for you and for me, that justice might be fulfilled, and grace could be given to fallen creatures such as you and I.  So, who is this God we worship?  What are His attributes?  And why is it so important that you and I seek to Know Him truly as He is?  Not some imagination of who we think He should be, but who He truly is.

Infinite In all He IS

We must recognize that in each attribute of God, He is infinite. That is a concept outside our full understanding.  Too often we think of, “Infinity and beyond” as Buzz Lightyear always said.  But the truth is there is no beyond infinity.  Infinity is the ultimate and truly beyond words.  Yet, God is infinite is all of His attributes.  Not only is He infinite—the ultimate in each attribute.  He also holds each one equally, harmoniously.  His Mercy does not exceed His justice and cannot.  Harmoniously just, righteousness, and Holy while at the same time showing equally His mercy, love, and grace.  Unlike us who can be disharmonious.  He is not.  I may flip flop from one moment of peace, interrupted into fear or love erupting into anger, but not God.  So any attempt by us to fully comprehend a deep knowledge of all God Is and all His attributes may appear futile; but it is not futile.  It is the quest of greatest importance. 

Great is our Lord, and mighty in power, His Understanding is Infinite. Psalm 147: 5 (NKJV)

Yes, everything else is worthless when compared with the infinite value of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord.  Philippians 3:8 (NLT)

Now all glory to God, who is able through His mighty power at work within us, to accomplish infinitely more than we might ask or think.  Ephesians 3:20 (NLT). 

In All God Is—He is United as One

When we consider the Trinity—The Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, we must never forget there is complete unity as well.  All that the Father Is the son is, as also the Spirit is.  There essence is One, perfectly united in all they are and do.  That is why we can at the same time say There is One God: yet in three persons.  That is the best analogy we in our finite minds can say and what we do not fully see, we must take on faith.  One day we shall see fully and understand fully, but for now, we see dimly as though through a glass. 

The Lord is our God, the Lord is one!  Deuteronomy 6:4, Mark 12:29

One Lord, One faith, one baptism, one God and Father of all who is over all and through all and in all.  Ephesians 4:5-6

However, you are not in the flesh but in the Spirit, if indeed the Spirit of God dwells in you. But if anyone does not have the Spirit of Christ, he does not belong to Him. If Christ is in you, though the body is dead because of sin, yet the spirit is alive because of righteousness. But if the Spirit of Him who raised Jesus from the dead dwells in you, He who raised Christ Jesus from the dead will also give life to your mortal bodies through His Spirit who dwells in you.  Romans 8:9-11

God is IMMUTABLE—Unchanging over time, unable to be changed

God will not change, cannot change.  Who God was in eternity past, He is eternally.  There is no way that today He is one and tomorrow different.  All His attributes in perfect harmony will always be unchanging. 

God is not a man, that he should lie; neither the son of man, that he should repent: hath he said, and shall He not do it?  Or hath He spoken, and shall He not make it good? Numbers 23:19 KJV

“I know that, whatsoever God doeth, it shall be for ever: nothing can be put to it, nor any thing taken from it: and God doeth it, that men should fear before him. That which hath been is now; and that which is to be hath already been; and God requireth that which is past.”

Ecclesiastes 3:14-15, KJV

“Remember the former things of old: for I am God, and there is none else; I am God, and there is none like me, Declaring the end from the beginning, and from ancient times the things that are not yet done, saying, My counsel shall stand, and I will do all my pleasure:”

Isaiah 46:9-10, KJV

“In hope of eternal life, which God, that cannot lie, promised before the world began;”

Titus 1:2, KJV

“Wherein God, willing more abundantly to shew unto the heirs of promise the immutability of his counsel, confirmed it by an oath: That by two immutable things, in which it was impossible for God to lie, we might have a strong consolation, who have fled for refuge to lay hold upon the hope set before us:”

Hebrews 6:17-18, KJV

Now, with that groundwork, Let’s look at some of God’s Attributes

What is an attribute?  The Oxford dictionary defines attribute as a quality or featured regarded as a characteristic or inherent part of someone or something.  So, what is inherent to God?  That which is and always will be a part of who He is in terms that our finite human brains at least can see and comprehend.  Even the prophets who saw God’s throne could only describe things as “like a” or “in the appearance of”.  Why?  Because whatever our greatest imaginations are pale in comparison to the reality of All God Is. Now with each of these, never forget His infinitude.  Therefore, you can truly say-God is Love or God is Justice, because He is the Perfection of each of these traits.  Without Him, they are nonexistent.

GOD IS     Love –

God is Love and he who abides in love abides in God and God in him.  I John 4: 16

God is Justice

Shall not the Judge of all the World do right? (Genesis 18:25).  The Judgements of the Lord are true and right altogether.  (Psalm 19:9) The Lord executes righteousness
And justice for all who are oppressed.  (Psalm 103:6 NKJV)

God is  Righteousness 

But now the righteousness of God apart from the law is revealed, being witnessed by the Law and the Prophets, ²² even the righteousness of God, through faith in Jesus Christ, to all ^[a]and on all who believe Romans 3:21-23

God is Goodness-

The Lord, the Lord God, merciful and gracious, longsuffering, and abounding in goodness and truth” Exodus 34:6 O taste and see that the Lord is good. Psalm 34:8

God is Wisdom

To God, only wise, be glory through Jesus Christ forever Romans 16:27   The Lord by wisdom hath founded the earth; by understanding hath He established the heavens Proverbs 3:19

God is  Holiness 

Holy, holy, holy is the Lord of hosts: the whole earth is full of His glory.  Isaiah 6:3  Who is like thee, O Lord, among the gods? Wo is like thee, glorious in holiness? Exodus 15:11

God is Mercy—

Blessed be God, even the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the father of Mercies and the God of all Comfort (2 Corinthians 1:3)

The Lord is merciful and gracious,
Slow to anger, and abounding in mercy.
⁹ He will not always strive with us,
Nor will He keep His anger forever.
¹⁰ He has not dealt with us according to our sins,
Nor punished us according to our iniquities.

¹¹ For as the heavens are high above the earth,
So great is His mercy toward those who fear Him;
¹² As far as the east is from the west,
So far has He removed our transgressions from us.
¹³ As a father pities his children,
So the Lord pities those who fear Him.
¹⁴ For He knows our frame;
He remembers that we are dust.

¹⁵ As for man, his days are like grass;
As a flower of the field, so he flourishes.
¹⁶ For the wind passes over it, and it is ^[b]gone,
And its place remembers it no more.
¹⁷ But the mercy of the Lord is from everlasting to everlasting
On those who fear Him, (Psalm 103: 8-17 NKJV)

God is  Grace

      ¹⁶ And of His fullness we have all received, and grace for grace. ¹⁷ For the law was given through Moses, but grace and truth came through Jesus Christ.   (John 1: 16-17 NKJV)   ²⁴ being justified ^[g]freely by His grace through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus, ²⁵ whom God set forth as a propitiation by His blood, through faith, to demonstrate His righteousness, because in His forbearance God had passed over the sins that were previously committed, ²⁶ to demonstrate at the present time His righteousness, that He might be just and the justifier of the one who has faith in Jesus.  (Romans 3:24-25 NKJV)

God is Omnipotence (All Powerful)

⁶ And I heard as it were the voice of a great multitude, and as the voice of many waters, and as the voice of mighty thunderings, saying, Alleluia: for the Lord God omnipotent reigneth.  (Revelation 19)  For with God nothing shall be impossible (Luke 1:37)

God is Omniscient (All Seeing)

¹² For the word of God is quick, and powerful, and sharper than any twoedged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart. ¹³ Neither is there any creature that is not manifest in his sight: but all things are naked and opened unto the eyes of him with whom we have to do.  (Hebrews 4)

God is Omnipresent (Everywhere at once)

⁷ Whither shall I go from thy spirit? or whither shall I flee from thy presence?⁸ If I ascend up into heaven, thou art there: if I make my bed in hell, behold, thou art there.⁹ If I take the wings of the morning, and dwell in the uttermost parts of the sea;¹⁰ Even there shall thy hand lead me, and thy right hand shall hold me.¹¹ If I say, Surely the darkness shall cover me; even the night shall be light about me.¹² Yea, the darkness hideth not from thee; but the night shineth as the day: the darkness and the light are both alike to thee. (Psalm 139)

God is Immanent (God Penetrates Everything)

Lo I am with you Always (Matthew 28:20) Surely the Lord is in this place and I knew it not (Genesis 28: 16)²⁷ That they should seek the Lord, if haply they might feel after him, and find him, though he be not far from every one of us:²⁸ For in him we live, and move, and have our being (Acts 17)

God is Self-Existent

¹⁴ And God said unto Moses, I Am That I Am: and he said, Thus shalt thou say unto the children of Israel, I Am hath sent me unto you….this is my name for ever, and this is my memorial unto all generations. (Exodus 3:14-15)

God is Eternal

Lord, thou hast been our dwelling place in all generations.² Before the mountains were brought forth, or ever thou hadst formed the earth and the world, even from everlasting to everlasting, thou art God.  (Psalm 90:1-2)

God is Transcendent (beyond or above anything we can imagine)

Thine, O Lord is the greatness, and the power, and the glory, and the victory, and the majesty: for all that is in the heaven and in the earth is thine; thine is the kingdom, O Lord, and thou art exalted as head above all. (I Chronicles 29:11)

God is Sovereignty

⁹ Who knoweth not in all these that the hand of the Lord hath wrought this? ¹⁰ In whose hand is the soul of every living thing, and the breath of all mankind. ¹¹ Doth not the ear try words? and the mouth taste his meat? ¹² With the ancient is wisdom; and in length of days understanding. ¹³ With him is wisdom and strength, he hath counsel and understanding. ¹⁴ Behold, he breaketh down, and it cannot be built again: he shutteth up a man, and there can be no opening. ¹⁵ Behold, he withholdeth the waters, and they dry up: also he sendeth them out, and they overturn the earth.¹⁶ With him is strength and wisdom: the deceived and the deceiver are his.¹⁷ He leadeth counsellors away spoiled, and maketh the judges fools.  (Job 12: 9-17)

God is Faithfulness

I will sing of the mercies of the Lord forever;
With my mouth will I make known Your faithfulness to all generations.
² For I have said, “Mercy shall be built up forever;
Your faithfulness You shall establish in the very heavens.”…

⁵ And the heavens will praise Your wonders, O Lord;
Your faithfulness also in the assembly of the saints.  (Psalm 80: 1-2,5 NKJV) If we believe not, yet He abideth faithful he cannot deny Himself (2 Timothy 2:13)

God is Light

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

God is Truth

Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me.  (John 14:6)  Actually, I was born and came into the world to testify to the truth. All who love the truth recognize that what I say is true.” (John 18:37 NLT)

God is Gentleness

³⁵ Thou hast also given me the shield of thy salvation: and thy right hand hath holden me up, and thy gentleness hath made me great.  (Psalm 18:35)

God is Patience

³ The Lord is slow to anger, and great in power, and will not at all acquit the wicked: the Lord hath his way in the whirlwind and in the storm, and the clouds are the dust of his feet.  (Nahum 1:3) ⁴ Don’t you see how wonderfully kind, tolerant, and patient God is with you? Does this mean nothing to you? Can’t you see that his kindness is intended to turn you from your sin? (Romans 2:4)

God is Creator

⁵ Then the angel I saw standing on the sea and on the land raised his right hand toward heaven. ⁶ He swore an oath in the name of the one who lives forever and ever, who created the heavens and everything in them, the earth and everything in it, and the sea and everything in it. He said, “There will be no more delay. ⁷ When the seventh angel blows his trumpet, God’s mysterious plan will be fulfilled. It will happen just as he announced it to his servants the prophets.” (Revelations 10:5-7 NLT)

God is Sustainer

Christ is the visible image of the invisible God.
    He existed before anything was created and is supreme over all creation,^[e]
16 for through him God created everything
    in the heavenly realms and on earth.
He made the things we can see
    and the things we can’t see—
such as thrones, kingdoms, rulers, and authorities in the unseen world.
    Everything was created through him and for him.
¹⁷ He existed before anything else,
    and he holds all creation together. (Colossians 1:15-17)

And the list goes on.  As we study our Bible, God’s Word, let us always be in search of a deep knowledge of All God IS.  Then, remember, that is only the beginning of knowledge. 

DO YOU KNOW CHRIST AS YOUR SAVIOR AND LORD? He is our only Hope in Life and Death! Our Joy is found in Him.

Therefore if you don’t know Jesus Christ as your Savior and Lord: I urge you today. Go to my page titled How to Be Saved by clicking on this link. There is nothing more important than this; because He is the way, the truth and the life. Therefore, I urge you to seek Him today.

For Prayer or Comments

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With the World Gone Mad, Never Forget “God is My Salvation”

DISCLOSURES

©Effie Darlene Barba, 2021
Disclosure of Material Connection: I have not received any compensation for writing this post. Furthermore, I have no material connection to the brands, products, or services that I have mentioned except for my own books. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.

Credits

New King James Version (NKJV)

Scripture taken from the New King James Version®. Copyright © 1982 by Thomas Nelson. Used by permission. All rights reserved.

New Living Translation (NLT)

Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright © 1996, 2004, 2015 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.

English Standard Version (ESV)

The Holy Bible, English Standard Version. ESV® Text Edition: 2016. Copyright © 2001 by Crossway Bibles, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers.

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