Why Is Jesus Christ Amid the Lampstands So Important?

“You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden. Nor do people light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a stand, and it gives light to all in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven.  Matthew 5:14-16 (ESV)

The book Revelation sits as the last book of the New Testament, the last scripture of the Holy Bible.  So many believe it to be a mystery, but as I explained last week, it is the revelation of Jesus Christ.  The unveiling of all the mystery.  Indeed, it expounds and explains all the former prophecies, perfecting complimenting and completing so we might know the hope that lies before us.  Just as the entirety of Scripture, it begins and ends with Jesus Christ.  Here in chapter one Jesus stands amid 7 lampstands, holding 7 stars in His hands.  He has a two-edged sword coming forth from His mouth representing the truth concerning the power of the word of God which He is.  So why is this portrait of Jesus Christ Amid the Lampstands so Important?

John has been told to transcribe this revelation of Jesus Christ for all His servants.  Who are His servants? All those who would come to serve Him out of love and devotion for Him.  This is a letter to help us know Him, to know His peace as we await and anticipate His return.  He did not want us to be unaware of the events to come.  Yet, John was to write of the things that were, the things that are, and the things that would come.  First was spoken of the things that were, as God the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit always were, are and will forever be the one true God represented in three beings or essences.  He addresses the seven churches in Asia with first a greeting.

Greetings to the Seven Churches of Asia

I was in the Spirit on the Lord’s day, and I heard behind me a loud voice like the sound of a trumpet, saying, “Write on a scroll what you see, and send it to the seven churches: to Ephesus, Smyrna, Pergamum, Thyatira, Sardis, Philadelphia, and Laodicea.” Revelation 1: 10-11 (NASB)

Often, we hear people debate over the terminology, “The Lord’s Day” as to whether this was a Saturday or a Sunday.  But truly should not every day be the Lord’s day with our being in the Spirit? 

Then I turned to see the voice that was speaking with me. And after turning I saw seven golden lampstands; and in the middle of the lampstands I saw one like a son of man, clothed in a robe reaching to the feet, and wrapped around the chest with a golden sash. Revelation 1:12-13 (NASB)

Notice he turned to see the voice.   Did he recognize the voice as that of His Savior?  So many years since His ascension, could it be Him?

A Vision of Jesus Christ Amid the Lampstands

His head and His hair were white like white wool, like snow; and His eyes were like a flame of fire. His feet were like burnished bronze when it has been heated to a glow in a furnace, and His voice was like the sound of many waters. In His right hand He held seven stars, and out of His mouth came a sharp two-edged sword; and His face was like the sun shining in its strength.  Revelation 1:14-16 (NASB)

John had seen Jesus on the Mount of Olives in His transfigured glorious body.  He had witnessed the ascension of Jesus Christ and awaited His return.  Of everyone, John knew of Jesus as the Word and understood the significance of that fact.

 “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 4:12 NKJV

Still when John saw Him…he fell at His feet.

When I saw Him, I fell at His feet like a dead man. And He placed His right hand on me, saying, “Do not be afraid; I am the first and the last, and the living One; and I was dead, and behold, I am alive forevermore, and I have the keys of death and of Hades. Revelation 1:17-18 (NASB)

I am the first and the last.  The one who died and is now living.  You know me John as I am your source of life eternal.  But I also carry the keys to death and Hades.

But as For the Churches, I Have Much to Say

Therefore, write the things which you have seen, and the things which are, and the things which will take place after these things. As for the mystery of the seven stars which you saw in My right hand, and the seven golden lampstands: the seven stars are the angels of the seven churches, and the seven lampstands are the seven churches. Revelation 1: 19-20 (NASB)

Jesus now begins the letters to the churches.  These were churches that were present at this time and John would deliver the letters to them.  It also represents the various churches in history through the church ages.  This is very similar to the prophecies in the Old Testament that had an immediate message, a later message and many which are yet to occur.  These letters which are presented in Chapters 2 and 3 are for we the church.  Then the church does not appear again until near the end.  Why?  Because we are not present for the tribulation period.

Enoch was taken out before the flood.  Lot was taken out of Sodom and Gomorrah before it’s destruction.  Further evidence is in the teaching of Jesus, the writings of Paul, and the prophets.  But we will discuss this further next week. 

For now, let us consider the letters to the churches.

“Chapters 2 and 3 contain seven letters to the seven literal, local churches mentioned in Chapter 1. Second, they are letters to seven individuals within the seven churches.  Third, they are messages applicable to all churches in all ages, for the seven churches picture seven periods or stages, of church history. “[1]

Jesus Christ Amid the Lampstands

As the church, we are to be the light to the world.  It is the operation of the church and each individual Christian to be spread the light of the gospel for all to see.

Therefore, having this ministry by the mercy of God, we do not lose heart. But we have renounced disgraceful, underhanded ways. We refuse to practice cunning or to tamper with God’s word, but by the open statement of the truth we would commend ourselves to everyone’s conscience in the sight of God. And even if our gospel is veiled, it is veiled to those who are perishing. In their case the god of this world has blinded the minds of the unbelievers, to keep them from seeing the light of the gospel of the glory of Christ, who is the image of God.

For what we proclaim is not ourselves, but Jesus Christ as Lord, with ourselves as your servants for Jesus’ sake. For God, who said, “Let light shine out of darkness,” has shone in our hearts to give the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ.  I Corinthians 4:1-6 (ESV)

These local churches were present in what would be modern day Turkey. 

Jesus Christ Amid the Lampstands to the Church of Ephesus

 “To the angel of the church in Ephesus write:

The One who holds the seven stars in His right hand, the One who walks among the seven golden lampstands, says this:

 ‘I know your deeds and your labor and  perseverance, and that you cannot tolerate evil people, and you have put those who call themselves apostles to the test, and they are not, and you found them to be false; and you have perseverance and have endured on account of My name, and have not become weary.Revelation 2:1-4

So, they were a hard working church, persevering the trauma that came their way. One of the earliest churches established by Paul and taught deep theology as one recalls the letter to the Ephesians.   They studied and labored to keep out false doctrines.  They hated the deeds of the Nicolaitans.

  “Who were the Nicolaitans and what was it about them that angered Almighty God?  The word comes from two Greek terms that means ‘victory over the laity’ a religious dictatorship that allowed little or no freedom to its members.[2] 

And their Error?

But I have this against you, that you have left your first love. Therefore, remember from where you have fallen, and repent, and do the deeds you did at first; or else I am coming to you and I will remove your lampstand from its place—unless you repent.  But you have this, that you hate the deeds of the Nicolaitans, which I also hate. The one who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches. To the one who overcomes, I will grant to eat from the tree of life, which is in the Paradise of God.’ Revelation 1:5-7 (NASB)

We still have these churches today in which the leaders mandate rules that are not mandated by the Scriptures.  Yet, the church of Ephesus once very strong did die as they lost sight of their first love for Jesus and began just going through the motions.  Mohammedanism swept through and destroyed the church of Ephesus. 

Jesus Christ Amid the Lampstands to the Church of Smyrna

“And to the angel of the church in Smyrna write:

The first and the last, who was dead, and has come to life, says this

‘I know your tribulation and your poverty (but you are rich), and the slander by those who say they are Jews, and are not, but are a synagogue of Satan. Do not fear what you are about to suffer. Behold, the devil is about to throw some of you into prison, so that you will be tested, and you will have tribulation for ten days. Be faithful until death, and I will give you the crown of life. The one who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches. The one who overcomes will not be hurt by the second death.’ Revelation 2:8-11 (NASB)

How gently Jesus forewarned them of the persecutions that would come due to their faithfulness.  He began with “I am the first and the last, who was dead, and has come to life.” I am your eternal life. 

The Smyrna period of church history takes us from 100 A.D. to 312 A.D. These people probably suffered the greatest persecution in all Christianity.  Their works faithfully performed in the name of Jesus brought great tribulation and poverty, materially.  However, great riches were laid up for them in heaven.  In addition, their relentless, dedicated efforts brought the Word of God to the Entire Romqn Empire.  During the second and third centuries the Smyrna church members were fed to the lions at Rome while multitudes cheered.  Church history informs us that five million may have been martyred during this time.[3]

Jesus Christ Amid the Lampstands to the Church of Pergamum

 “And to the angel of the church in Pergamum write:

The One who has the sharp two-edged sword says this:

 ‘I know where you dwell, where Satan’s throne is; and you hold firmly to My name, and did not deny My faith even in the days of Antipas, My witness, My faithful one, who was killed among you, where Satan dwells. Revelation 2: 12-13 (NASB)

 But I have a few things against you, because you have some there who hold the teaching of Balaam, who kept teaching Balak to put a stumbling block before the sons of Israel, to eat things sacrificed to idols and to commit sexual immorality.  So you too, have some who in the same way hold to the teaching of the Nicolaitans. Therefore repent; or else I am coming to you quickly, and I will wage war against them with the sword of My mouth.The one who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches. To the one who overcomes, I will give some of the hidden manna, and I will give him a white stone, and a new name written on the stone which no one knows except the one who receives it.’ Revelation 2: 14-17 (NASB)

Who was Balaam?

If you recall from the Old Testament, Balaam was a soothsayer who had the donkey who listened to God more than Balaam.  He was not allowed to curse the Israeli people, but ultimately told the Balak the King opposing Israel to seduce them with idols and beautiful women.  This worked to draw the Israelites into sin and it was the same as this church allowing sexual perversion and idolatry to reside.  Furthermore, they entertained the Nicolaitans allowing them to flourish

The church period represented best is from 312 AD to 606 AD.  This period was filled with materialism, self-indulgence and worldliness.  Although we see this occurring still in some of the churches. 

Jesus Christ Amid the Lampstands to the Church of Thyatira

 “And to the angel of the church in Thyatira write:

The Son of God, who has eyes like a flame of fire, and feet like burnished bronze, says this:

 ‘I know your deeds, and your love and faith, and service and perseverance, and that your deeds of late are greater than at first. Revelation 2:18-19

They were growing and doing so well, but then they became tolerant to allowing evil to sift in. 

But I have this against you, that you tolerate the woman Jezebel, who calls herself a prophetess, and she teaches and leads My bond-servants astray so that they commit sexual immorality and eat things sacrificed to idols. I gave her time to repent, and she does not want to repent of her sexual immorality.Behold, I will throw her on a bed of sickness, and those who commit adultery with her into great tribulation, unless they repent of her deeds.  And I will kill her children with plague, and all the churches will know that I am He who searches the minds and hearts; and I will give to each one of you according to your deeds.  Revelation 2:20-23 (NASB)

Queen Jezebel was the evilest of queens who tried to kill Elijah.  She led her husband King Ahab and the nation into Baal worship and the worship of Ashtereth all related to idolatry, child sacrifice, and sexual prostitution of all kinds.

 However, this is grace for all who listen and heed God’s warning.

 But I say to you, the rest who are in Thyatira, who do not hold this teaching, who have not known the deep things of Satan, as they call them—I place no other burden on you. Nevertheless what you have, hold firmly until I come.  The one who overcomes, and the one who keeps My deeds until the end, I will give him authority over the nations; and he shall rule them with a rod of iron, as the vessels of the potter are shattered, as I also have received authority from My Father;  and I will give him the morning star. The one who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches.’  Revelation 2:24–29 (NASB)

In church history this 606 AD to 1520 AD

Jesus Christ Amid the Lampstands to the Church of Sardis

“To the angel of the church in Sardis write:

He who has the seven spirits of God and the seven stars, says this:

 ‘I know your deeds, that you have a name that you are alive, and yet you are dead.  Be constantly alert, and strengthen the things that remain, which were about to die; for I have not found your deeds completed in the sight of My God. So remember what you have received and heard; and keep it, and repent. Then if you are not alert, I will come like a thief, and you will not know at what hour I will come to you. 

But you have a few people in Sardis who have not soiled their garments; and they will walk with Me in white, for they are worthy. The one who overcomes will be clothed the same way, in white garments; and I will not erase his name from the book of life, and I will confess his name before My Father and before His angels. The one who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches.’ Revelation 3:1-6 (NASB).

Jesus Christ Amid the Lampstands to the Church of Philadelphia

“And to the angel of the church in Philadelphia write:

He who is holy, who is true, who has the key of David, who opens and no one will shut, and who shuts and no one opens, says this:

 ‘I know your deeds. Behold, I have put before you an open door which no one can shut, because you have a little power, and have followed My word, and have not denied My name. Behold, I will make those of the synagogue of Satan, who say that they are Jews and are not, but lie—I will make them come and bow down before your feet, and make them know that I have loved you. Because you have kept My word of perseverance, I also will keep you from the hour of the testing, that hour which is about to come upon the whole world, to test those who live on the earth.

I am coming quickly; hold firmly to what you have, so that no one will take your crown. The one who overcomes, I will make him a pillar in the temple of My God, and he will not go out from it anymore; and I will write on him the name of My God, and the name of the city of My God, the new Jerusalem, which comes down out of heaven from My God, and My new name. The one who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches.’ Revelation 3: 7-13 (NASB)

Jesus Christ Amid the Lampstands to the Church of Laodicea

 “To the angel of the church in Laodicea write:

The Amen, the faithful and true Witness, the Origin of the creation of God, says this:

 ‘I know your deeds, that you are neither cold nor hot; I wish that you were cold or hot.So because you are lukewarm, and neither hot nor cold, I will vomit you out of My mouth. Because you say, “I am rich, and have become wealthy, and have no need of anything,” and you do not know that you are wretched, miserable, poor, blind, and naked, I advise you to buy from Me gold refined by fire so that you may become rich, and white garments so that you may clothe yourself and the shame of your nakedness will not be revealed; and eye salve to apply to your eyes so that you may see.

Those whom I love, I rebuke and discipline; therefore be zealous and repent. Behold, I stand at the door and knock; if anyone hears My voice and opens the door, I will come in to him and will dine with him, and he with Me.The one who overcomes, I will grant to him to sit with Me on My throne, as I also overcame and sat with My Father on His throne. The one who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches.’”  Revelation 3:14-22

[1] Van Impe, Revelation Revealed, Jack Van Impe Ministries, Troy, MI, 1982; page 26

[2] Van Impe, page 30

[3] Van Impe, 31

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.

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

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Are You Ready For Hope Built On A Revelation Of Jesus Christ?

©Effie Darlene Barba, 2025

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.

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Are You Ready For Hope Built On A Revelation Of Jesus Christ?

Yea doubtless, and I count all things but loss for the excellency of the knowledge of Christ Jesus my Lord.  Philippians 3:8 (KJV)

Is there anything more important in this world than to know Jesus Christ?  And what does it mean to really know Him? Certainly, it begins with that head knowledge, but that is not enough to really know Him.  There must be a wooing of the Spirit drawing one to desire to know Him. Like suddenly falling in love-wanting to know everything about Him. Then as time passes, we realize our only true hope is built on a revelation of Jesus Christ ever growing within. There deep within one’s heart we discover a yearning for something only He can fill.  We seek hope, joy, peace, and search everywhere in vain; just as King Solomon in Ecclesiastes had searched.

No amount of wealth, wisdom, possessions, nor human love was enough to fulfill the empty place of void.   His conclusion “Fear God and keep His commandments, For this is man’s all.” Ecclesiastes 12:13 NKJV

Suddenly, one day, unable to resist anymore, you ask Him into your heart.  Believing He is God Incarnate, the only begotten son of God the Father who willingly for love of us and the Father came to live a perfect life we could never live and die the death we deserved, reserved for us.  At that moment in time, overwhelmed with emotion, we ask Him to be Lord of our lives.  Then, step by step the Holy Spirit over the remainder of our lifetime through good times and bad teach us of Him.  And the more we know of Him, the deeper we fall in love with Him.  We begin to realize our hope is built on a revelation of Jesus Christ.  A Revelation far beyond what we could ever imagine.

Why we long for a Revelation of Jesus Christ?

I could say I know Pastor Jamieson, but do I really?  Certainly, I see his actions and hear his words.  From that I might conclude he is a devoted husband, father, and pastor.  I could conclude he loves God and desires to serve him.  But do I really know His heart?  His wife and children could proclaim a greater knowledge of him; yet, do we ever truly, fully know another person. 

Yet, Jesus knows us.  There is no thought that passes through my brain but that He knows. Imagine that every thought?  

Lord, You have searched me and known me.
You know when I sit down and when I get up;
You understand my thought from far away.
 You scrutinize my path and my lying down,
And are acquainted with all my ways.
Even before there is a word on my tongue,
Behold, Lord, You know it all.
You have encircled me behind and in front,
And placed Your hand upon me.
Such knowledge is too wonderful for me;
It is too high, I cannot comprehend it.  Psalm 139:1-6 (NASB)

It is incomprehensible to consider He Knows me completely and loves me just the same.  Is not that reason enough to long for every revelation of who He is.

The Book of Revelations Begins

The Revelation of Jesus Christ, which God gave Him to show His servants—things which must shortly take place. And He sent and signified it by His angel to His servant John, who bore witness to the word of God, and to the testimony of Jesus Christ, to all things that he saw. Blessed is he who reads and those who hear the words of this prophecy and keep those things which are written in it; for the time is near.  Revelation 1:1-3 (NKJV)

So, let us not skim past this.  This book is the revelation of Jesus Christ which God Gave Him to show His servants.  God gave Him this revelation of Himself as Jesus is the perfect reflection of the Father as we saw last week.  The exact image.

Who (Jesus) being the brightness of His (God the Father’s) glory and the express image of His person and upholding all things by the word of His power, Hebrews 1:3 NKJV 

A Messenger Angel Sent Forth by Jesus in the Revelation of Jesus Christ

Then Jesus sent His Messenger Angel to relay all this to John on the aisle of Patmus.  A late 2nd century theologian named Tertullian wrote that the Roman Emperor Domitian had boiled John in a pot of oil attempting to kill him; but he was unscathed by the burning oil.  So, to shut him up, they exiled him to a very harsh island alone.  While on the aisle of Patmus, Jesus sent His Messenger Angel to John with the in-depth revelation of Himself.

Why send the Messenger Angel? Perhaps that we might see also a glimpse of the Glory He so willingly lay aside to come to earth. After all He has angels surrounding Him willing to perform any act He commands of them.

Theodore H. Epp Explained

The opening words are “The Revelation of Jesus Christ”. The key word to the content and message of the Book is Revelation.

First of all, then, it is a revelation.  The word “revelation” comes from the Greek word apokalupsis which means an uncovering, a disclosure or unveiling.  We are familiar with the custom of a sculptor making a statue of some person, or an artist painting a picture, which is later unveiled so that the public can see it. 

Just so here.  The Bible tells us that which we have in this book is an unveiling of Jesus Christ….Revelation is not the Revelation of John but of Jesus Christ.  That which was previously concealed is now revealed.  Even though there are difficulties in understanding or interpreting certain passages in the Book, it was not written to be a mystery but rather to more clearly reveal or unveil certain truths concerning Jesus Christ.  So we approach it expecting to learn from it, not expecting to be led into confusion. 

This calls for a reading of the Book and a study of it.  We will find as we do that God unveils Christ to us, presenting Him as both the Subject and the Object of the Book.  It is a revelation of Him who is its Subject, that is, it is given by Him.  He is also its Object so it is also about Him.  Thus, we have a revelation of Jesus Christ, by Him and about Him.  [1]

The Revelation of Jesus Christ:  Our Hope Holds Fast in Him

 John, to the seven churches which are in Asia:

Grace to you and peace from Him who is and who was and who is to come, and from the seven Spirits who are before His throne, and from Jesus Christ, the faithful witness, the firstborn from the dead, and the ruler over the kings of the earth.  Revelation 1:4-5 NKJV

Who else can offer grace and peace other than Jesus Himself? He is the great I AM, who Is, who was and who is to come.

The seven Spirits, who are before His throne, refers to the Holy Spirit in all His perfection.    This references the passage in Isaiah 11:2,5

The Spirit of the Lord shall rest upon Him,
The Spirit of wisdom and understanding,
The Spirit of counsel and might,
The Spirit of knowledge and of the fear of the Lord….And righteousness shall be the girdle of his loin

And who is sending the greeting as well?  Jesus Christ, the faithful witness for who else can be the greater witness.  He is the first born of the dead—only through Him can we be resurrected to life.  Without His resurrection there would be no other resurrection to life. No hope for out spirits which are dead to God to come alive. No chance these dry bones could find life.   Furthermore, He is the ruler over all the kings of the earth. 

The Revelation of Jesus Christ—the faithful witness

Jesus Christ has been throughout the ages the faithful witness of God’s love, His grace, His righteousness, His patience and His Justice.  Christ was a faithful witness even to the point of death.  He would not deny the truth, that without the shedding of blood there could be no remission for sin.   Theodore Epp wrote: 

The Lord Jesus Christ has been a faithful witness concerning the righteousness of God.  He has declared God’s righteousness showing how He is just and the Justifer of him who believes in Jesus.  It is this very characteristic of God that makes it impossible for Him to allow sin in heaven or even the thought of it.  Atonement was made for sin through Christ.  So all who trust Him, all who dare to believe in Him are justified and are given eternal life. 

Our Lord was faithful in His witness even unto death.  In Pilate’s judgment hall Christ did not deny that He was the Son of God.  He affirmed it.  He could not and would not deny the truth concerning Himself.  Though He might have been spared some suffering and scorn.  He did not hesitate to witness before Pilate and the High Priest of Israel concerning Himself and God’s purposes through Him.[2]  

The Revelation of Jesus Christ, Our Savior

To Him who loved us and washed us from our sins in His own blood, and has made us kings and priests to His God and Father, to Him be glory and dominion forever and ever. Amen.   Revelation 1:5-6 NKJV

Not only did He save us but,

 Behold, He is coming with clouds, and every eye will see Him, even they who pierced Him. And all the tribes of the earth will mourn because of Him. Even so, Amen.   Revelation 1:7 NKJV

And who is He?

“I am the Alpha and the Omega, the Beginning and the End,” says the Lord, “who is and who was and who is to come, the Almighty.”Revelation 1:8 NKJV

Vision of the Son of Man

Then I turned to see the voice that spoke with me. And having turned I saw seven golden lampstands, and in the midst of the seven lampstands One like the Son of Man, clothed with a garment down to the feet and girded about the chest with a golden band.  His head and hair were white like wool, as white as snow, and His eyes like a flame of fire;  His feet were like fine brass, as if refined in a furnace, and His voice as the sound of many waters;

He had in His right hand seven stars, out of His mouth went a sharp two-edged sword, and His countenance was like the sun shining in its strength. And when I saw Him, I fell at His feet as dead. But He laid His right hand on me, saying to me, “Do not be afraid; I am the First and the Last. I am He who lives, and was dead, and behold, I am alive forevermore. Amen. And I have the keys of Hades and of Death.  Revelation 1: 12-18

A Vision – A Revelation of Jesus Christ

The Vision John saw brought Reverent fear

Just like Isaiah, Ezekiel and Daniel; John fell upon his face at the appearance of Jesus. This was a reverent fear. The two-edged sword proceeded from the mount of Jesus revealing His perfect righteousness in judgement.

He is the Word of God. And “ 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 4:12 NKJV

How wonderful and marvelous that God Almighty bid us to come, read, and hear this marvelous revelation of Jesus Christ. This book of the Bible is not meant to confuse or shrouded in mystery. Rather I truly believe, He has presented it with clarity for all to see. We should embrace His truth and study it as we would any part of the Word of God, believing that every Word is true written to demystify the Glorious Beauty of Jesus Christ in all His Splendor

An Outline of the Study

Write the things which you have seen, and the things which are, and the things which will take place after this.  The mystery of the seven stars which you saw in My right hand, and the seven golden lampstands: The seven stars are the angels of the seven churches, and the seven lampstands which you saw are the seven churches. Revelation 1:20

Clearly, God did not intend there to be any confusion.  He is revealing what will yet take place considering history and the present time.  That is what He told John and I believe it still.    Revelation does not have to be a daunting study when we use the entirety of scripture to explain scripture.  So this will be our goal over the next few weeks or months. 

8 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,

9 And be found in him, not having mine own righteousness, which is of the law, but that which is through the faith of Christ, the righteousness which is of God by faith:

10 That I may know him, and the power of his resurrection, and the fellowship of his sufferings, being made conformable unto his death;  Philippians 3

So, let us rejoice in the revelation of Jesus Christ, fully expecting it to transform our lives.

[1] Epp, Theodore H.; Practical studies in Revelation Vol 1; Christ and the Church,  Back to the Bible Broadcast, Lincoln, NE; copyright 1969, page 10

[2] IBID page 30-31

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 is Jesus Absolutely Superior to Every Prophet, Priest, Angel, and King? 

©Effie Darlene Barba, 2025

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.

BSB (BEREAN STUDY BIBLE)

The Berean Bible and Majority Bible texts are officially dedicated to the public domain as of April 30, 2023.

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 American Standard Bible (NASB)New American Standard Bible®, Copyright © 1960, 1971, 1977, 1995, 2020 by The Lockman Foundation. All rights reserved.

New English Translation (NET)NET Bible® copyright ©1996-2017 by Biblical Studies Press, L.L.C. http://netbible.com All rights reserved.

Amplified Bible (AMP)Copyright © 2015 by The Lockman Foundation, La Habra, CA 90631. 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.

Why is Jesus Absolutely Superior to Every Prophet, Priest, Angel, and King? 

God, who at various times and in various ways spoke in time past to the fathers by the prophets, has in these last days spoken to us by His Son, whom He has appointed heir of all things, through whom also He made the worlds; Hebrews 1:1-2 NKJV 

The book of Hebrews presents Jesus as the Absolutely Superior Prophet, Priest, Angel, and King.  As such it presents the truth: Jesus is the story. Always has been and always will be The Only True Story That Really Matters from eternity past forever eternally.  The reason for everything.  In the Old Testament, Jesus was presented in detail by the prophets foreshadowing the details of His coming birth, life and return as King yet to come.  But more than that, He was also present in every story of history.   

whom He has appointed heir of all things, through whom also He made the worlds Hebrews 1:3 ( NKJV)

Appointed as heir of all things.  Everything is a part of His inheritance.  God made everything out of love and honor of His son.  Furthermore, through Him all things were made. 

In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was in the beginning with God. All things were made through Him, and without Him nothing was made that was made. In Him was life, and the life was the light of men. And the light shines in the darkness, and the darkness did not comprehend it….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. John 1:1-5, 14 NKJV 

Hebrews:  The Story of It All 

The Book of Hebrews perfectly intertwines the Old Testament and New Testament proof: Jesus is Absolutely Superior. It was written in a very high level Greek. We are not told who wrote the book, but of those considered Apollos does stand out as having all the traits needed to present this.  It was of course addressed to the Hebrew believers that they might connect all the dots and have their eyes become fully opened.   

Jesus Absolutely Superior and Equally God 

Who (Jesus) being the brightness of His (God the Father’s) glory and the express image of His person Hebrews 1:3 NKJV 

When you look at the sun, there is no separation from the light of the sun and the radiance that it gives.  This is like the God the Father and the Son.  No separation in essence; yet, different in person.   

and upholding all things by the word of His power, Hebrews 1:3 NKJV 

Only Jesus sustains everything.  Every breath happens by the word of His power.  One word and the storms ceased for the apostles’ boat and all the other boats.  Yet, He willingly was born as a fragile child to then become the spotless lamb of God who would die in our place.   

 when He had by Himself purged our sins, (He) sat down at the right hand of the Majesty on high, having become so much better than the angels, as He has by inheritance obtained a more excellent name than they.  Hebrews 1: 4 (NKJV) 

For at the name of Jesus all knees will bow whether in heave and on earth.   

Absolutely Superior to the Angels 

Such a beautiful rendition of presenting interludes from Psalm 45, the writer here in Hebrews presents Jesus as so superior to the Angels.   

 For to which of the angels did He ever say: 

“You are My Son, 

Today I have begotten You”? 

And again: 

“I will be to Him a Father, 

And He shall be to Me a Son”?  Hebrews 1:5 (NKJV) 

So, was there ever a time that the Son did not exist? Of course not, Jesus was eternally present as the Father.   Yet, there was a time that He came into this world as a baby.  God became a man. Therein, He who would be tempted as we are and yet not sin.  Only then was He able to take upon Himself all the sins of this world.  Only He could declare Tetelastai. IT is finished. And thereby usher in the Last Days.  Victory became His when He died and then rose again.  We are in the last days and have been for nearly 2000 years.  But this, so that we His bride could be saved.  Even though we are in the last days, we have not completed the final movement of the last days.

My heart is overflowing with a good theme; 
I recite my composition concerning the King; 
My tongue is the pen of a ready writer. You are fairer than the sons of men; 
Grace is poured upon Your lips; 
Therefore God has blessed You forever.  Psalm 45: 1-2 (NKJV)  

Obviously, the Sons of Korah, inspired by the Holy Spirit wrote this psalm about Jesus, though to them, He was no more than a promise.  But a promise from God, is a promise secure.  Next is what they wrote of Him  

Absolutely Superior as King  

Gird Your sword upon Your thigh, O Mighty One, 
With Your glory and Your majesty. 
And in Your majesty ride prosperously because of truth, humility, and righteousness; 
And Your right hand shall teach You awesome things. 
Your arrows are sharp in the heart of the King’s enemies; 
The peoples fall under You.  Psalm 45: 3-5 NKJV

Then as God would call Jesus God, note in verse 6 and 7 where it points out His throne is forever, and that God the Father has anointed Him with the oil of Gladness.  

 Your throne, O God, is forever and ever; 
A scepter of righteousness is the scepter of Your kingdom. You love righteousness and hate wickedness; 
Therefore God, Your God, has anointed You 
With the oil of gladness more than Your companions. 
All Your garments are scented with myrrh and aloes and cassia, 
Out of the ivory palaces, by which they have made You glad. 
Kings’ daughters are among Your honorable women; 
At Your right hand stands the queen in gold from Ophir.  Psalm 45:6-7

More Proof Jesus is Absolutely Superior to the Angels 

Some even then wanted to worship the angels.  Yet, the angels fall before Jesus in worship.  They are his ministering spirits.  He sends them to minister to we, the saved children of God. 

 But when He again brings the firstborn into the world, He says: 

“Let all the angels of God worship Him.”  Hebrews 1:6 NKJV 

Even the angels rejoiced in worship of Him at His birth. 

And of the angels He says: 

“Who makes His angels spirits 
And His ministers a flame of fire.” Hebrews 1:7 NKJV

For the angels powers were given them by their creator which was Jesus as earlier noted.  By Him all things were created.   

But to the Son He says: 

“Your throne, O God, is forever and ever; 
A scepter of righteousness is the scepter of Your kingdom. 
You have loved righteousness and hated lawlessness; 
Therefore God, Your God, has anointed You 
With the oil of gladness more than Your companions.” Hebrews 1:8-9 (NKJV)

And: 

“You, Lord, in the beginning laid the foundation of the earth, 
And the heavens are the work of Your hands. 
They will perish, but You remain; 
And they will all grow old like a garment; 
Like a cloak You will fold them up, 
And they will be changed. 
But You are the same, 
And Your years will not fail.”  Hebrews 1:10-12 and Psalm 102:25-27

1:10–12 Quoted from Ps. 102:25–27. The Son who created the universe (John 1:1–3) one day will destroy the heavens and earth that He created (see notes on 2 Pet. 3:10–12), but He remains unchanged. Immutability is yet another characteristic of the divine essence. Once again the OT testifies of the Son’s deity.1 

13 But to which of the angels has He ever said: 

“Sit at My right hand, 
Till I make Your enemies Your footstool”?  Hebrews 1:13 NKJV

Because He is truly in command of the angels.  

 Are they not all ministering spirits sent forth to minister for those who will inherit salvation.  Hebrews 1:14 NKJV

Jesus was Absolutely Superior to Moses  

 Therefore, holy brethren, partakers of the heavenly calling, consider the Apostle and High Priest of our confession, Christ Jesus, who was faithful to Him who appointed Him, as Moses also was faithful in all His house. For this One has been counted worthy of more glory than Moses, inasmuch as He who built the house has more honor than the house.  Hebrews 3:1-3 NKJV 

God appointed Jesus as High Priest—the only High Priest that could truly provide the final sacrifice of innocent righteous blood.   

Seeing then that we have a great High Priest who has passed through the heavens, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold fast our confession. For we do not have a High Priest who cannot sympathize with our weaknesses, but was in all points tempted as we are, yet without sin.  Let us therefore come boldly to the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy and find grace to help in time of need. Hebrews 4:14-16 (NKJV) 

He was not born of the tribe of Aaron, for He was King and born from the tribe of Judah as foretold.  Then how could he be a priest.  

 though He was a Son, yet He learned obedience by the things which He suffered. And having been perfected, He became the author of eternal salvation to all who obey Him called by God as High Priest “according to the order of Melchizedek,”of whom we have much to say, and hard to explain, since you have become dull of hearing. Hebrews 5:8-10 (NKJV) 

Mechizedek was both a Priest and King—chosen by God.  A portrait of Jesus.   

Jesus Brought the Superior Covenant 

For if that first covenant had been faultless, then no place would have been sought for a second. Because finding fault with them, He says: “Behold, the days are coming, says the Lord, when I will make a new covenant with the house of Israel and with the house of Judah— not according to the covenant that I made with their fathers in the day when I took them by the hand to lead them out of the land of Egypt; because they did not continue in My covenant, and I disregarded them, says the Lord.

For this is the covenant that I will make with the house of Israel after those days, says the Lord: I will put My laws in their mind and write them on their hearts; and I will be their God, and they shall be My people. None of them shall teach his neighbor, and none his brother, saying, ‘Know the Lord,’ for all shall know Me, from the least of them to the greatest of them. For I will be merciful to their unrighteousness, and their sins and their lawless deeds I will remember no more.” 

In that He says, “A new covenant,” He has made the first obsolete. Now what is becoming obsolete and growing old is ready to vanish away.  Hebrews 8:7-12 (NKJV) 

Winding throughout the book of Hebrews there are warning to remain faithful; yet, at the same time, the sweetest depiction of the pure grace by which we are saved.  The warnings were for those who do not truly believe; but, merely put on a show of believing.  It was also a picture of the truth that those who truly know Christ as Lord and Savior, will hold fast to the truth.  Not by the strength of their own hands but by the power of the Holy Spirit within. The Holy Spirit assures that every true believer will Hold Fast to the end. This is a lasting covenant; built upon the blood of Christ.   

Jesus is the Absolutely Superior Tabernacle. 

Did you realize the many chapters of the Bible speaking of the Tabernacle were painting a portrait of Christ?   

 But Christ came as High Priest of the good things to come, with the greater and more perfect tabernacle not made with hands, that is, not of this creation. Not with the blood of goats and calves, but with His own blood He entered the Most Holy Place once for all, having obtained eternal redemption. For if the blood of bulls and goats and the ashes of a heifer, sprinkling the unclean, sanctifies for the purifying of the flesh, 14 how much more shall the blood of Christ, who through the eternal Spirit offered Himself without spot to God, cleanse your conscience from dead works to serve the living God?

And for this reason He is the Mediator of the new covenant, by means of death, for the redemption of the transgressions under the first covenant, that those who are called may receive the promise of the eternal inheritance.  Hebrews 9:11-15 (NKJV) 

Jesus is the Absolutely Superior Mediator 

As Moses and the Priests had been mediators for between God and man, Jesus became the perfect mediator.   

Therefore it was necessary that the copies of the things in the heavens should be purified with these, but the heavenly things themselves with better sacrifices than these. 

For Christ has not entered the holy places made with hands, which are copies of the true, but into heaven itself, now to appear in the presence of God for us; not that He should offer Himself often, as the high priest enters the Most Holy Place every year with blood of another— He then would have had to suffer often since the foundation of the world; but now, once at the end of the ages, He has appeared to put away sin by the sacrifice of Himself. And as it is appointed for men to die once, but after this the judgment, so Christ was offered once to bear the sins of many. To those who eagerly wait for Him He will appear a second time, apart from sin, for salvation. Hebrews 9:23-28 NKJV

Christ did not sprinkle the blood upon the tabernacle made by hands.  He entered heaven where He presented the sacrifice to the Father as the final atonement for sin for all who believe in Him.  He sits on the throne making intercessions for us.   

Absolutely Superior Faith is ours to Hold Fast because of Jesus 

Therefore it was necessary that the copies of the things in the heavens should be purified with these, but the heavenly things themselves with better sacrifices than these. For Christ has not entered the holy places made with hands, which are copies of the true, but into heaven itself, now to appear in the presence of God for us; not that He should offer Himself often, as the high priest enters the Most Holy Place every year with blood of another—  He then would have had to suffer often since the foundation of the world; but now, once at the end of the ages, He has appeared to put away sin by the sacrifice of Himself.

And as it is appointed for men to die once, but after this the judgment, so Christ was offered once to bear the sins of many. To those who eagerly wait for Him He will appear a second time, apart from sin, for salvation.  Hebrews 11:1-3 NKJV 

And Even Faith is a Gift exemplified by Jesus Christ. 

Therefore we also, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which so easily ensnares us, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, 2 looking unto Jesus, the [author and finisher of our faith, who for the joy that was set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. For consider Him who endured such hostility from sinners against Himself, lest you become weary and discouraged in your souls.  Hebrews 12:1-3 (NKJV) 

Therefore, He was Absolutely Superior in demonstrating faith, and providing the same for each of us.

1 John McArthur, NKJV Study Bible Second Edition 

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 Actually Know Abiding Steadfast Joy because Jesus is God Almighty 

©Effie Darlene Barba, 2024

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.

BSB (BEREAN STUDY BIBLE)

The Berean Bible and Majority Bible texts are officially dedicated to the public domain as of April 30, 2023.

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 American Standard Bible (NASB)New American Standard Bible®, Copyright © 1960, 1971, 1977, 1995, 2020 by The Lockman Foundation. All rights reserved.

New English Translation (NET)NET Bible® copyright ©1996-2017 by Biblical Studies Press, L.L.C. http://netbible.com All rights reserved.

Amplified Bible (AMP)Copyright © 2015 by The Lockman Foundation, La Habra, CA 90631. 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.

How to Actually Know Abiding Steadfast Joy because Jesus is God Almighty 

Strengthened with all might, according to His glorious power, for all patience and longsuffering with joy; giving thanks to the Father who has qualified us to be partakers of the inheritance of the saints in the light. He has delivered us from the power of darkness and conveyed us into the kingdom of the Son of His love, in whom we have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of sins. Colossians 1:9-14 NKJV

Abiding, steadfast joy is not some frivolous, lackadaisical, fleeting joy.  There are moments of overflowing, unspeakable indescribible joy.  Yet it is also that slow steady stream of unwavering joy just beneath the surface, built on truth and hope. Joy steadying us during the trials of life. Abiding, steadfast joy is under-girded by the power of Jesus Christ who IS God Almighty incarnate! Emmanuel! God with us!  

As we look through this past week’s scriptures in Colossians, Ephesians, Philippians, and I Peter, let us seek to understand this magnificent truth infused joy.  First, we will look at the truth of who Jesus is and why that matters.  Then I want us to explore three truths that lead to abiding, steadfast joy.  Those being Our place in the Universe, Our Purpose, and our position in Christ.  Understanding these fundamental truths changes everything, eternally within us.  Thus, allowing us to abide in steadfast joy.  A joy that nothing and no one can take away from us.

Jesus Christ IS God Almighty 

When Paul wrote to the church of Colossae, he did so to address the false doctrines which had slipped into that church.    At Colossae, there entered many false doctrines to include a mix of Jewish, pagan, and christian heresies. Those from Jewish background taught that Christ was not sufficient for salvation.  Instead, salvation must include works, rituals, and ceremonies.

Another group introduced a pagan belief that all earthly matter was evil, denying divine creation.  Hence this group , known as the early Gnosticism. They worshipped angelic beings.  Furthermore, they declared there was secret knowledge only obtained by joining their cult.  

The heretical groups within those calling themselves Christians went so far as to dethrone Christ.  They declared Him not to be Divine nor the creator of the Universe.  Hence were that true His death and resurrection could not purchase salvation. Serious false doctrines which could destroy this little church.

Paul addresses the issue of Jesus’s deity in Colossians.   

He (Jesus) is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn over all creation, 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. He himself is before all things and all things are held together in him. Colossians 1:15-17 (NET) 

For God was pleased to have all His fullness dwell in the Son 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 1:19 NET

God was pleased to have All HIS FULLNESS dwell in the Son.  Jesus is the absolute direct mirrored image of God the Father.  He is God Almighty.  Therefore, in Him we have abiding, steadfast joy available to us.   

Foundational Truth #1 to Know Abiding, Steadfast Joy-Place in the Universe

We must first understand our place on earth. I am His creation, and He is the creator.   We belong to Him.  Established as His bride, we become one with Christ.   

And God put all things under Christ’s feet, and gave him to the church as head over all things. Now the church is his body, the fullness of him who fills all in all. Ephesians 1:22-23  (ESV)

Beyond having been created in Him and for Him, our redemption was purchased by Him.  We are His. 

But God, being rich in mercy, because of his great love with which he loved us, even though we were dead in offenses, made us alive together with Christ—by grace you are saved! and he raised us up together with him and seated us together with him in the heavenly realms in Christ Jesus, to demonstrate in the coming ages the surpassing wealth of his grace in kindness toward us in Christ Jesus.  Ephesians 2: 4-7 NET 

Jesus spoke of this Joy; when He prayed to the Father 

But now I come to You, and these things I speak in the world, that they may have My joy fulfilled in themselves.  John 17:13 NKJV 

Also in John 15, We further Recognize Our Place 

Abide in me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit by itself, unless it abides in the vine, neither can you, unless you abide in me.  I am the vine; you are the branches. Whoever abides in me and I in him, he it is that bears much fruit, for apart from me you can do nothing.  John 15:4-5 (ESV) 

Therefore, remembering my place in this world.  I am not the vine and cannot provide the necessary nutrients alone to produce the fruit of joy in my own life.  No matter how hard I try.  

 If we find ourselves with a desire that nothing in this world can satisfy, the most probable explanation is that we were made for another world.” 

― C.S. Lewis, 1 

Yet Jesus did promise us Joy 

As the Father has loved me, so have I loved you. Abide in my love.  If you keep my commandments, you will abide in my love, just as I have kept my Father’s commandments and abide in his love.  These things I have spoken to you, that my joy may be in you, and that your joy may be full.  John 15:9-11 (ESV) 

Therefore, we may hold fast to abiding steadfast joy as we remember our place.  We are the created being and need the life-giving sap of the Savior to fill us with joy.   

Foundational Truth #2 to Know Abiding, Steadfast Joy- Purpose  

Whenever asked “what is my purpose on earth”, the typical response by a Christian is “I live to bring Glory to God.”  Though that may sound very pious, it did not take long for me to realize I have nothing within me to bring any glory to God.  Besides, He does not need my glory.  He is totally glorious and nothing I could do would increase His glory.   You cannot improve perfect.   So, what can my purpose be?   

that your love may abound more and more, with knowledge and all discernment, so that you may approve what is excellent, and so be pure and blameless for the day of Christ, filled with the fruit of righteousness that comes through Jesus Christ, to the glory and praise of God.  Philippians 1:9-11 (ESV) 

It is God’s mercy that even works through me to accomplish His will.  So if he can use anything I do or say to point someone to Christ, it is He working through me and not I, myself.  It always amazes me when I think I am at my worst, stumbling in my witness—He steps in and saves the one I failed in my witness despite my failures.   

Purpose of Peace As Well As United in One with Christ 

Furthermore, my purpose is being a part of His Holy Temple in the Lord, knit together with other believers. In the following verse, Paul is pointing out their pupose is to be knit together.  Both Jew and Gentile were called by God to be one church. 

And he came and preached peace to you who were far off and peace to those who were near. For through him we both have access in one Spirit to the Father.  So then you are no longer strangers and aliens, but you are fellow citizens with the saints and members of the household of God, built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Christ Jesus himself being the cornerstone, in whom the whole structure, being joined together, grows into a holy temple in the Lord.  In him you also are being built together into a dwelling place for God by the Spirit.   

Foundational Truth #3 to Know Abiding, Steadfast Joy- Person 

One must understand who we are in Jesus Christ.  For in Jesus Christ I am His chosen, redeemed, beloved, gifted, enlightened child; heir of the kingdom of God, servant by choice, a new creation, sealed by the Holy Spirit, and a declared Saint.  Why would I not be filled with an abiding, steadfast joy knowing that.  So where is that found?  

Our Position in Christ Confirmed in Scripture 

 Ephesians  1: 3-14 (ESV) 

Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us in Christ with every spiritual blessing in the heavenly places, even as he chose us in him before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy and blameless before him.

In love he predestined us for adoption to himself as sons (and daughters) through Jesus Christ, according to the purpose of his will, to the praise of His glorious grace, with which he has blessed us in the Beloved. In him we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of our trespasses. According to the riches of his grace, which he lavished upon us, in all wisdom and insight  making known to us the mystery of his will, according to his purpose, which he set forth in Christ as a plan for the fullness of time, to unite all things in him, things in heaven and things on earth. 

In him we have obtained an inheritance, having been predestined according to the purpose of him who works all things according to the counsel of his will. So that we who were the first to hope in Christ might be to the praise of his glory.  In him you also, when you heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation, and believed in him, were sealed with the promised Holy Spirit,ho is the guarantee of our inheritance until we acquire possession of it, to the praise of his glory. 

Our position includes 

you are a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people for his own possession, that you may proclaim the excellencies of him who called you out of darkness into his marvelous light. I Peter 2:9 (ESV) 

Because of All That:  Our Abiding Steadfast Joy is sure in Jesus 

Furthermore, He provides us with armor 

Finally, be strong in the Lord and in the strength of his might.  Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the schemes of the devil. For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the cosmic powers over this present darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places.

Therefore take up the whole armor of God, that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand firm.  Stand therefore, having fastened on the belt of truth, and having put on the breastplate of righteousness,  and, as shoes for your feet, having put on the readiness given by the gospel of peace. 16 In all circumstances take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming darts of the evil one;  and take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God,  praying at all times in the Spirit, with all prayer and supplication. To that end, keep alert with all perseverance, making supplication for all the saints,  EPHESIANS 6: 10-18  (ESV) 

Abiding Steadfast Joy In the Storm 

In this you rejoice, though now for a little while, if necessary, you have been grieved by various trials, so that the tested genuineness of your faith—more precious than gold that perishes though it is tested by fire—may be found to result in praise and glory and honor at the revelation of Jesus Christ.  Though you have not seen him, you love him. Though you do not now see him, you believe in him and rejoice with joy that is inexpressible and filled with glory,  obtaining the outcome of your faith, the salvation of your souls.  

 I Peter 1:6-9 (ESV) 

Is there anything I can do to assist in having abiding steadfast Joy 

Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, rejoice. Let your reasonableness be known to everyone. The Lord is at hand; do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. 

Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things. What you have learned and received and heard and seen in me—practice these things, and the God of peace will be with you.  Philippians 4:4-9 (ESV) 

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

Previous

7 Amazing Reasons We Overflow with Hope in Jesus Christ 

©Effie Darlene Barba, 2024

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.

BSB (BEREAN STUDY BIBLE)

The Berean Bible and Majority Bible texts are officially dedicated to the public domain as of April 30, 2023.

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 American Standard Bible (NASB)New American Standard Bible®, Copyright © 1960, 1971, 1977, 1995, 2020 by The Lockman Foundation. All rights reserved.

New English Translation (NET)NET Bible® copyright ©1996-2017 by Biblical Studies Press, L.L.C. http://netbible.com All rights reserved.

Amplified Bible (AMP)Copyright © 2015 by The Lockman Foundation, La Habra, CA 90631. 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.

7 Amazing Reasons We Overflow with Hope in Jesus Christ 

Now may the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that you will abound in hope by the power of the Holy Spirit. Romans 15:13 (NASB)

How wonderful and marvelous a thought! Our hope is not based on the frailties of this world.  It is not based on a government, money, position, health, popularity, or anything this earth can offer.  Our hope is based on the God of hope who can fill our very being with abounding hope by the power of the Holy Spirit because of Jesus Christ’s atoning work on the cross.  We overflow with Hope in Jesus Christ!

We abound in hope because the God of hope fills us with all joy and peace in believing.  Then He empowers us with the full power of the Holy Spirit who is the very essence of God’s hope, joy, and love in His son Jesus Christ.  Here I wish to present 7 Amazing reasons we can overflow with Hope regardless of the storms we face or the fires we must walk through.  Always and forever, our hope is in Jesus Christ. 

Our hope is first founded in the truth of Justification, Redemption, and Sanctification by grace alone, through faith alone, in Jesus Christ Alone.  This work in completed in us by the Holy Spirit and not of ourselves.  Therefore, in addition to these first 3 Essential Reasons.  We are also promised and given love, unity, gifts, and governance so we might shine forth this hope to all of whom we meet.   

Reasons We Overflow with Hope—the book of Romans 

Paul the apostle wrote the book of Romans most likely from Corinth.  He longed to go there.  The Roman church is believed to have been founded by some of the initial converts on the day of Pentecost.  Neither Peter nor Paul had gone to Rome at that point.  They referenced Peter because he was the one who preached at the day of Pentecost.  Peter would later go to Rome around 68 AD near the time the temple in Jerusalem was destroyed by the Roman leaders.  This letter was somewhere around 57 AD.  That may be in part why it is the letter most complete in doctrine so as to have been even called the “Constitution of Christianity” or the Christian Manifesto.   

Afterall if the church leaders had no formal training it was important they learn all the truth from the beginning.  Step by step Paul explains the truth from the depravity of sin that indwelt all of mankind to the marvelous truth of the gospel message of salvation.  He meticulously explains salvation as justification, redemption, and sanctification.  Then he explains the further promises and gifts of love, unity, governance and gifts.  Finally, throughout he explains the marvelous work of the Holy Spirit in all of this.  

ROMANS 1 to overflow with Hope 

 Paul, a bondservant of Christ Jesus. Called as an apostle. Set apart for the gospel of God, which He promised beforehand through His prophets in the Holy Scriptures concerning His Son. Who was born of a descendant of David according to the flesh. Who was declared the Son of God with power according to the Spirit of holiness by the resurrection from the dead, Jesus Christ our Lord. Through whom we have received grace and apostleship to bring about the obedience of faith among all the Gentiles in behalf of His name. Among whom you also are the Called of Jesus Christ.  Romans 1:1-6 (NASB) 

Paul who had been so zealous a Jew in persecuting church, understood full well that all his prior training and all he now was, all came about by the grace of God.  He was not seeking to know Jesus.  Very content in his own ways, believing himself righteous, he missed the truth as well.  That is until one day Jesus appeared to him, and he could no longer go against the one true Savior.  All his knowledge of Old Testament Scripture suddenly came to light.  He now could see how everything pointed to Christ.  And that now Jesus Christ was the fulfillment of every mystery and every promise.  He was the hope we had all looked for.   

For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ, for it is the power of God to salvation for everyone who believes, for the Jew first and also for the Greek.  For in it the righteousness of God is revealed from faith to faith; as it is written, “The just shall live by faith.” Romans 1:16-17 (NASB) 

That was the verse that changed Martin Luther’s life forever. 

Transformed to Overflow with Hope 

Martin Luther was heavily obsessed with the depths of his own sin.  It is said he would go into the confessional and while there he would confess of every thought he had.  Often the priest would finally tell him to go home.  As he confessed, he realized even his thoughts then were sinful.  Oppressed with the realization that no one could truly live righteously, he lived tormented.  Then one day while reading he noticed.  It was not a righteousness that he could obtain.  It was the righteousness of God which could only occur through faith.  No righteousness of man was good enough.  It was God’s righteousness imputed upon man. Not what man could do himself. 

This is the overflow of hope that Paul presents so clearly in Romans.   

But before he can present the solution, Paul makes certain they understand the problem of sin.  It is more than a choice one makes one day.  It is indeed a chain that enslaves the heart and soul of mankind.  A chain that cannot be removed by one’s own efforts.  Indeed, despite God’s common grace displaying His glory throughout creation, humanity chose to worship the creation rather than the creator.  Even the consequences of their sinful nature being so evident as to their evil nature, they marched forward.  And the very wrath of God against the sin became evident.  Not because he desired wrath.  Rather He while desiring righteousness and joy for His creation, recognized the destruction of their sin.  He knew the sin would destroy all that was good as they drew farther from Him.  Thus, we see clearly the wrath of God against sin. 

For the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men, who suppress the truth in unrighteousness, because what may be known of God is manifest in them, for God has shown it to them. Romans 1:18-19 (NASB) 

All of Humanity and Creation Doomed Without A Savior 

For since the creation of the world His invisible attributes are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made, even His eternal power and Godhead, so that they are without excuse,  because, although they knew God, they did not glorify Him as God, nor were thankful, but became futile in their thoughts, and their foolish hearts were darkened.  Professing to be wise, they became fools  Romans 1: 20-21 

And this is the fate and result.  

filled with all unrighteousness, sexual immorality, wickedness, covetousness, maliciousness; full of envy, murder, strife, deceit, evil-mindedness; they are whisperers, backbiters, haters of God, violent, proud, boasters, inventors of evil things, disobedient to parents, undiscerning, untrustworthy, unloving, unforgiving, unmerciful; who, knowing the righteous judgment of God, that those who practice such things are deserving of death, not only do the same but also approve of those who practice them.  Romans 1:29-32 (NASB) 

So that none are righteous no not one. No hope in sight but God presented a plan of salvation.  A plan to overflow with hope for all who would believe.  That plan first presented to Adam and Eve now was clearly presented in Jesus Christ.  

Overflow with Hope because of Justification 

Therefore, having been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom also we have access by faith into this grace in which we stand, and rejoice in hope of the glory of God. Romans 5:1-2 (NASB). 

And in this justification, we have hope even amid trials, persecutions, and storms.  How? 

hope does not disappoint, because the love of God has been poured out in our hearts by the Holy Spirit who was given to us. Romans 5:5 (NASB) 

But how can we be justified if we are so lost and chained by sin? 

 You see, at just the right time, when we were still powerless, Christ died for the ungodly. …God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.  Romans 5:6,8 NIV 

Therefore, we overflow with hope. 

Since we have now been justified by his blood, how much more shall we be saved from God’s wrath through him!  For if, while we were God’s enemies, we were reconciled to him through the death of his Son, how much more, having been reconciled, shall we be saved through his life!  Not only is this so, but we also boast in God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom we have now received reconciliation.  Romans 5:9-10 (NIV) 

Furthermore, we overflow with joy because of Redemption 

Redemption means we are set free from the slavery we once were enslaved to.  No longer must I yield to the chains that held me.  Why? 

Therefore, there is now no condemnation at all for those who are in Christ Jesus.  For the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus has set you free from the law of sin and of death. For what the Law could not do, weak as it was through the flesh, God did: sending His own Son in the likeness of sinful flesh and as an offering for sin, He condemned sin in the flesh, so that the requirement of the Law might be fulfilled in us who do not walk according to the flesh but according to the Spirit.  Romans 8:1-4 (NASB) 

But how do I walk according to the Spirit?   

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 (NASB) 

So, how can I not overflow with joy? All who have accepted Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior has the indwelling Holy Spirit.  Therefore, I have no chance to ever be condemned again.  I have been redeemed by the blood of the Lamb.  The chains are gone.  Sin has no power over me. Hallalujah! Amen! 

We Overflow with Hope because of Sanctification 

Being transformed into the Saint I have already been declared to be. Everything that happens in my life is the Holy Spirit working toward that goal so that one day, I will look like my Savior.  I will shine forth His glory.  For now I am clothed in His righteousness—then I will be righteous.  

And we know that God causes all things to work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose.  For those whom He foreknew, He also predestined to become conformed to the image of His Son, so that He would be the firstborn among many brothers and sisters; and these whom He predestined, He also called; and these whom He called, He also justified; and these whom He justified, He also glorified.  Romans 8:28-30 (NASB) 

And if that were not enough to overflow with joy 

He has also promised us His unwavering, steadfast love that we cannot be separated from. 

For I am convinced that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor things present, nor things to come, nor powers, nor height, nor depth, nor any other created thing will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord. Romans 8:38-39 (NASB) 

He has also given us unity that we may have the power of many with us.   

just as each of us has one body with many members, and these members do not all have the same function, 5 so in Christ we, though many, form one body, and each member belongs to all the others.  Romans 12: 4-5 (NIV) 

He gave us varying gifts, so that we could join hands to be the best version of Christ to the world.  No one is to do it all alone.  We are a community of believers.   

We have different gifts, according to the grace given to each of us. If your gift is prophesying, then prophesy in accordance with your faith; if it is serving, then serve; if it is teaching, then teach; if it is to encourage, then give encouragement; if it is giving, then give generously; if it is to lead, do it diligently; if it is to show mercy, do it cheerfully. Romans 12: 6-8 (NIV). 

Furthermore, God Gave Governance 

God established Kings and Kingdoms.  He oversees the good and the bad.  Yet, He established governance so there would not be total chaos.  Can you imagine were there no laws or authorities in this world?  God will accomplish all that He has planned. We should never worry about that.  Therefore, we overflow with hope in a world gone mad.   

Every person is to be subject to the governing authorities. For there is no authority except from God, and those which exist are established by God. Therefore, whoever resists authority has opposed the ordinance of God; Romans 13: 1-2 (NASB) 

Certainly, we do not disobey God.  If the law says I go to prison for praying, then I must surrender peacefully to the authorities and go to prison.  Even in this God reigns supreme.   

How many people have been blessed by Pilgrim’s Progress?  John Bunyan was in prison for refusing to stop preaching the gospel.  His wife and children were at home.   

Therefore, We Overflow with Hope because we Have God’s Hope in Us 

Now may the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that you will abound in hope by the power of the Holy Spirit. Romans 15:13 (NASB) 

Therefore because of that, let us 

I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that you present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable to God, which is your reasonable service. And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God. Romans 12: 1-2 (NKJV) 

understanding the present time: The hour has already come for you to wake up from your slumber, because our salvation is nearer now than when we first believed.  The night is nearly over; the day is almost here. So let us put aside the deeds of darkness and put on the armor of light…., clothe yourselves with the Lord Jesus Christ, and do not think about how to gratify the desires of the flesh. Romans 13:11,12,14 (NIV) 

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.

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Transforming Work Of The Holy Spirit From Glory To Glory. How? 

©Effie Darlene Barba, 2024

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.

BSB (BEREAN STUDY BIBLE)

The Berean Bible and Majority Bible texts are officially dedicated to the public domain as of April 30, 2023.

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 American Standard Bible (NASB)New American Standard Bible®, Copyright © 1960, 1971, 1977, 1995, 2020 by The Lockman Foundation. All rights reserved.

New English Translation (NET)NET Bible® copyright ©1996-2017 by Biblical Studies Press, L.L.C. http://netbible.com All rights reserved.

Amplified Bible (AMP)Copyright © 2015 by The Lockman Foundation, La Habra, CA 90631. 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.