Jesus the Living Bread

The Messiah’s Secret – Jesus the Living Bread

When Jesus said,"Unless you eat my flesh and drink my blood," he was referring to the partaking of his sacrifice for the sins of the flesh, which he accumplished on the cross. Signifying a change from being under law to grace which means unmerited favour from God.

Using the Revised Standard Version (RSV) Bible.

Visual Aids are used in this series of talks.

A Cross is made of textile material large enough to accommodate items on the following list.
Find material large enough to accommodate the largest object. (see picture above with two sizes of crosses, the larger accomodates the large doll, 'the bride.'

A piece of cloth is cut to form two crosses and then sewn together.
Leave open the four ends to enable the objects to be placed inside the cross and pulled out at the appropriate time.

Loaf of bread
Small Bible
Two keys
Picture of Peter’s vision
Onion
Picture of sun set with a rainbow.
Picture of Ascension window (St. Alkmund. Whitchurch. Shropshire)

These are placed inside the cross.
Each one is pulled out in turn and its significance explained.
The verses of scripture can be handed out and read at the appropriate time.
The cross a place of change, a cross roads.
Life is often described as a journey and at some point we may be challenged to take a step of faith in the direction of Jesus.

Faith
It has become a habit before I go out in my car, I pray for a safe journey and a place to park. I’m always amazed when I arrive to find some one is just leaving their car parking space. Faith in the little things encourages us to trust the Lord in all things.
“Now faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen.” Hebrews 11: 1

Jesus the Living Bread

The Jews wanted a sign from Jesus like the one Moses gave them the ‘manna’ from heaven. In response Jesus declared himself to be the Living Bread from Heaven.
In John’s Gospel Chapter 6 verse 49 - 51 “Your fathers ate the manna in the wilderness, and they died. This is the bread which comes down from heaven that a man may eat of it and not die. I am the living bread which came down from heaven; if any one eats of this bread which I shall give for the life of the world is my flesh.”

The manna was given to sustain the Israelites on their wilderness journey.
The miracle of the manna, it had a limited shelf life, it only lasted a short time before it went mouldy. The people had been instructed by Moses to gather only enough manna for that day. Those who did not listen to Moses and kept some over for the next day, they found it had worms in it. But amazingly when on the sixth day they gathered enough for that day and the following day, the Sabbath, it had not decayed. Exodus 16: 12 – 20.

Jesus the Bread of Life.
“The Jews disputed among themselves saying “How can this man give us his flesh to eat? Jesus said to them, “Truly, truly I say to you, unless you eat of the flesh of the Son of man and drink his blood you shall not have life within you. He who eats my flesh and drinks my blood has eternal life and I will raise him up on the last day. For my flesh is food indeed, and my blood is drink indeed. He who eats my flesh and drinks my blood abides in me, and I in him. As the living Father sent me and as I live because of the Father, so he who eats me will live because of me. This is the bread that came down from heaven, not such as the fathers ate and died; he who eats this bread will live for ever.” John 6: 52 - 58

“Many of Jesus’ disciples, when they heard it, said, “This is a hard saying; who can listen to it?”
Even some of Jesus’ followers couldn’t accept these words and didn’t follow him any more. John 6: 60, 66
For Jesus to suggest that they should eat his flesh and drink his blood was against the laws relating to food.
Under Law they were not allowed to eat shell fish, pork and other foods that would make them unclean. No meat could be eaten without first draining the blood from it, because life is in the blood. The blood removed from the meat made the food spiritualy sinless and clean. Food was spiritually part of them. Leviticus 11: 1-end 17: 11

The sacrifice that was made at the temple to atone for breaking the food laws. Jesus became that sacrifice ending the spirituallity relating to the food laws. Nolonger has food any spirituallity.
At Holy Communion the bread and the wine are symbols of Jesus' sacrifice of his body and blood.



Jesus declared that all foods were clean.
On another occasion Jesus said that it wasn’t what you ate that defiled a person, but what came from the heart, the thoughts and intentions of the heart. (Thus he declared all foods clean,)”
Mark 7: 18, 19
Jesus informs us what the word flesh means in Mark 7: 14-23. It is not what we eat that corrupts a person, but it’s what comes out of our heart and mind: fornication, theft, murder, adultery, coveting, wickedness, deceit, licentiousness, envy, slander, pride, foolishness. Jesus bore these sins that defile a person’s heart for us on the cross.

When Jesus said ‘unless you eat my flesh and drink my blood’ he was referring to the partaking of his sacrifice for the sins of the flesh, which he accomplished on the cross. Signifying a change from being under law to grace which means unmerited favour from God.

Purification by the water of the Word. Ephesians 5:26, 27
Jesus went on to say, "It is the Spirit that gives life, the flesh is no avail; (profits nothing) the words that I have spoken to you are Spirit and life.”
John 6: 63.

Jesus the final sacrifice for sin against a Holy God
The Messiah’s Secret page 93 “At the last supper Jesus introduced the New Covenant through his body and his blood, his life laid down for the final atonement, for sins against a Holy God. When a Jewish person made a sacrificial offering for sin, an offering of an animal, fowl, or meal, was brought to the temple, were the person would place their hand on to the head of the animal to be sacrificed, their sin was transferred by prayer into the sacrifice; its blood was then sprinkled upon the altar to make atonement, a covering for sin. This was repeated time and time again. Leviticus 1: 4. 3: 2
This offering would be accepted to make atonement, reconciliation, and pardon. This meaning of the word atonement is ‘to cover.’ The transfer of guilt to the sacrifice, brought forgiveness to the offender. The sacrifice was regarded as a person’s substitute for breaking the laws of Moses.”

Today, when we turn to Jesus in repentance saying sorry to him for our sins against God. Jesus becomes our substitute taking our sin upon him on the cross, so releasing us into the freedom of God’s forgiveness through his resurrection.

The Ascension

At the base of the window we see the disciples looking towards heaven as they watched Jesus ascend into heaven.

Jesus prophesied his ascension
“Jesus heard their murmurings and said to them “Do you take offence at this? Then what if you see the Son of man ascending to where he was before? It is the Spirit that gives life, the flesh is no avail; the words that I have spoken to you are Spirit and life.”
John 6: 61 – 63
It was after Jesus’ ascension that he fulfilled the promise of sending the Holy Spirit into the world. The Holy Spirit gives life to the eternal words of Jesus, the living bread.

Jesus the Word of God, the living bread.
The apostle John wrote in his gospel and his letters about Jesus being the Word of God.
“In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God” John 1: 1
“That which was from the beginning, which we have heard, which we have seen with our eyes, which we have looked upon and touched with our hands, concerning the Word of life. The life was made manifest, and we saw it, and testify to it, and proclaim to you the eternal life which was with the Father and was made manifest to us.” 1 John 1: 1, 2.
Jesus wants us to eat the bread of his words which sustain every believer, providing food for the heart and soul. As we listen to them being read, inwardly digesting the words they have the power to transform a person’s life.

A word I was given on 30th May 1996 was that, “The disciples were setting up the kingdom in at the beginning of Acts.” It was as I understood to be in preparation for Jesus’ return with the angels of God. Mark 8:38
Keys

“And I tell you, you are Peter, and on this rock I will build my church, and the powers of hell shall not prevail against it. I will give you the keys of the kingdom of heaven.” Matthew 16: 18, 19

The Messiah’s Secret pages 113 and 118
Jesus had given the keys of the kingdom to Peter, at Pentecost he opened the door of the kingdom to the nation of Israel
When Peter visited Cornelius he opened the door of the kingdom to the Gentiles.
Peter's Vision.

The Lord confirmed in Peter’s vision that the laws relating to food were ended.
After Pentecost the apostle Peter was staying at Simon the tanner’s house at Joppa. Whilst Simon and Peter were preparing the evening meal, Peter had a vision, he saw the heaven opened, and something descending, like a great sheet, let down by four corners upon the earth. In it were all kinds of animals and reptiles and birds of the air. And there came a voice to him, “Rise, Peter; kill and eat.” But Peter said, “No, Lord; for I have never eaten anything that is common or unclean.” And the voice came to him again a second time, “What God has cleansed, you must not call common.” This happened three times, and the thing was taken up at once to heaven.”Acts 10: 9 – 16
While Peter was still pondering the vision, three men arrived at the house and asked for Peter. They informed him that the centurion Cornelius had been visited by an angel. The angel directed Cornelius to send for Peter who was lodging at Simon the tanner’s house at Joppa.

Peter quickly realised the meaning of the vision; it was God’s intention for him to go and associate with these people who were not Jews. This would also include eating food from their table. Peter accompanied the men to the home of Cornelius at Caesarea. Peter related to them all about Jesus, “God had anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Spirit and with power; how he went about doing good and healing all that were oppressed by the devil, for God was with him. And we are witnesses to all that he did both in the country of the Jews and in Jerusalem. They put him to death by hanging him on a tree; but God raised him on the third day and made him manifest . . . To him all the prophets bear witness that every one who believes in him receives forgiveness of sins through his name.” While Peter was saying this, the Holy Spirit fell on all who heard the word. Peter and his companions were amazed; God had shown no partiality between Jew and Gentile.” Acts 10: 38 – 45.

Two other scriptures confirm that all foods are clean.
“The heart is strengthened by grace, not by foods which have not benefited the adherents.”Hebrews 13: 9.
“Therefore let no one pass judgement on you in questions of food and drink.” Colossians 2: 16.


Peter initially opened the door of the kingdom to the Gentiles. It was Paul who was commissioned by the Lord to go to the Gentiles with the good news. “I have set you as a light to the Gentiles.”
Acts 13: 47.

The Messiah’s Secret page 126 Paul a Pharisee“Paul, a Pharisee, strictly adhered to the law. God had shown him that circumcision and the rituals and sacrifices of laws of Moses had come to an end, and the Holy Spirit would now write God’s laws into the heart of a person through faith in Jesus, the New Covenant. Paul’s beliefs had been turned upside down.”

Paul wrote to the church at Ephesus explaining the cross.“But now in Christ Jesus you who once were far off have been brought near by the blood of Christ. For he is our peace he has broken down the dividing wall of hostility, by abolishing in his flesh the law of commandments and ordinances, that he might create in himself one new man in place of two, so making peace, and might reconcile us both to God in one body through the cross, thereby bringing the hostility to an end.” Ephesians 2: 13 -16

In the temple at Jerusalem stood a wall separating Jew from Gentile (a dividing wall of hostility) Within the Jewish courts the rituals of the Laws of Moses took place.

Through Jesus’ death, resurrection and ascension the ceremonial law and the law of commandments contained in ordinances (regulations) were removed.
By ending the Mosaic Law, Jesus formed one church of believers Jew and Gentile.

Oneness in Christ

An onion is made up of several layers making up the whole onion.
“I do not pray for these only, but also for those who believe in me through their word, that they may all be one; even as you, Father, are in me, and I in thee, that they also may be in us, so that the world may believe that you have sent me. . . . Father, I desire that they also, who you have given me may be with me where I am, to behold your glory which you have given me in your love before the foundation of the world.” John 17: 20, 21, 24

Jesus prayed for two things:
1. Oneness with himself and Father God, not just for his disciples at the time when he said this prayer, but for Christians, centuries later, who believe in their eye witness accounts, written in the Gospels and Letters.
2. Jesus desired that the disciples would be with him and see his glory, where he was before the foundation of the world.

The onion
1. Each layer of the onion represents a person and the whole onion the church.
When I begin to remove the brown outer layer, a very strong aroma is released, so strong that tears come into my eyes. This reminds me of when I started going again to church after a twelve year break. On hearing the Gospel I felt convicted that I needed to repent and get my life right with the word of God.
Repentance, saying sorry to God for wrongdoings will often bring tears, tears of sorrow.

After removing the brown outer layer we find a white layer. This reminds me of receiving forgiveness from God. Forgiveness brings our oneness with God the Father, and Jesus the Son of God.

In between each layer of the onion there is a fine silky membrane. This reminds me of the love of God between each believer.
In God we have three persons Father, Son and Holy Spirit; all three are persons in their own right, but are united in love and form the three in one.
Each Christian is saved by grace through faith in Jesus, personal salvation and united by the love of God in the fellowship of the church.
“So we though many, are one body in Christ, and individually members of one another.” Romans 12: 5

2. The second prayer point verse 24 in two parts.
a) Jesus was looking back to the time before he came to the earth and he’s praying from the position of the second person of the Trinity.
b) Jesus desired that the disciples would see his glory where he was before the foundation of the world.

a) When Jesus prayed his prayer he was looking back to where he was with his Father before he came to the earth to fulfil God’s plan of reconciliation in uniting all things in heaven and on the earth through his death, resurrection and ascension.
After his ascension Jesus sent the Holy Spirit into the world to make it possible for us to see his glory.
“Yet to all who receive him, who believe in his name, he gave the right to become children of God.” John1: 13.

Jesus prayed his request to God, from his position as the second person of the Trinity. When we pray we should remember our position in Christ, we are children of God.
“We have been blessed in Christ with every spiritual blessing in heavenly places.” Ephesians 1: 3.
“Christ is all and in all.” Colossians 3: 11.
“Now to him who by the power at work within us is able to do far more abundantly than all we can ask or think.” Ephesians 3: 20
“We are seated with Christ in heavenly places.” Ephesians 2: 6

b) Like the disciples we too as children of God shall see his glory.
The Lord's Glory as seen by Ezekiel
“And above the firmament over their heads there was the likeness of a throne, in appearance like sapphire; and seated above the likeness of the throne was a likeness as it were of human form. and upward from what had the appearance of his loins I saw as it were gleaming bronze, like the appearance of fire enclosed round about; and downward from what had the appearance of his loins I saw as it were the appearance of fire, and there was a brightness round about him. Like the appearance of the bow that is in the cloud on the day of rain, so was the appearance of the brightness round about. Such was the appearance of the likeness of the glory of the Lord.” Ezekiel 1: 26 – 28.

When I thought about Ezekiel’s vision of the glory of the Lord, I imagined the figure full of fire, being like a setting sun, with the sky the colour of sapphire and with a rainbow running through it.

The church was in the mind of God before the foundation of the world.
Paul wrote that we the church are a heavenly people, “If then you have been raised with Christ, seek the things that are above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God. Set your mind on things above, not on the things that are on earth.” Colossians 3: 1, 2. 1 Peter 1: 20
“For he chose us in him before the foundation of the world.” Ephesians 1: 4.

The Jewish people are an earthly people they are from the foundation of the earth. Luke 11: 50. Abraham was the founding father of Israel. The Jews are looking for the Messiah’s reign on earth.
“Then the King shall say to those on my right hand, “Come, O blessed of my Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world.” Matthew 25: 34.
Jesus will return
Today many Jewish people are recognising Jesus as their Messiah, Christian Jews and I’ve noticed how their knowledge of the Torah brings to light more hidden truths concerning Jesus.
When Jesus returns with the angels of God, and all the saints, the remnant of the nation of Israel will recognise their Messiah, Jesus Christ.
“So that he may establish your hearts unblamable in holiness before our God and Father, at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ with all his saints.” 1 Thessalonians 3:13
”And I will pour out on the house of David and the inhabitants of Jerusalem a spirit of compassion and supplication, so that, when they look on him whom they have pierced, they shall mourn for him, as one mourns for an only child, and weep bitterly over him, as one weeps over a first-born.” Zechariah 12: 10.

The Messiah's Secret - The Two Witnesses

The Two Witnesses
John the Baptist was in the spirit and power of Elijah he witnessed to Jesus being the Messiah.

Using the Revised Standard Version (RSV) Bible.

Visual Aids are used in this talk.
A Cross is made of textile material large enough to accommodate items on the following list.

Water wings
Picture with Joseph, Mary and baby Jesus
Picture of Fortress of Antonia
Picture with Jesus on the cross
Picture of man at ‘Gate Beautiful.’
Picture of the Dispersion
Mustard seed or picture of Mustard tree
Picture Gas boiler

These are placed inside the cross.
Each one is pulled out in turn and its significance explained.
The verses of scripture can be handed out and read at the appropriate time.

Material large enough to accommodate the largest object. (An A3 piece of paper would be quite large enough)
A piece of cloth is cut to form two crosses and then sewn together along the dotted lines. This cross does not have an image of Jesus on it, as Jesus is risen.
Leave open the four ends to enable the objects to be placed inside the cross and pulled out at the appropriate time.

The cross a place of change, a cross roads.
Life is often described as a journey and at some point we may be challenged to take a step of faith in the direction of Jesus.

Faith

When my children were learning to swim they wore water wings. They put their faith in them to keep them afloat. It was hard for them to take the water wings off and start to swim without them.
It is easier to put your faith into some thing that you can see or touch, than to have faith in God who you can not see or touch. To take that step of faith isn’t easy, it is like swimming without the water wings. When we step out in faith we find it works, we are upheld, and supported by God.

Joseph, Mary and baby Jesus

Observing the rituals of the law Joseph and Mary went to the temple for Mary’s purification which was 40days after the birth of Jesus. Leviticus 12
Also they were presenting their first-born child, Jesus, to the Lord, to be consecrated to God. God declared “For the first-born are mine.” Numbers 3: 15

Simeon and Anna. Two witnesses.
Some time earlier the Holy Spirit had revealed to Simeon that before he died he would see the Lord’s Christ. Luke 2:22
On the day Joseph and Mary took Jesus into the temple, Simeon lifted Jesus up in his arms and by the Holy Spirit he knew that this baby boy was the promised Saviour of Israel and also of the Gentiles. (In the Bible there are only two groups of people the Jews and the Gentiles.)
Simeon praised God for fulfilling his promise to him with these words:
Lord, now let thy servant depart in peace;
according to thy word; for mine eyes have seen thy salvation which thou hast prepared in the presence of all peoples, a light for revelation to the Gentiles, and for glory to thy people Israel.”
Luke 2: 29-32.

At the same hour another person came into the temple, Anna the prophetess. Luke records in his gospel that Anna she witnessed to others present that Jesus was the Messiah the one who would redeem Jerusalem.
The Messiah would redeem Jerusalem from the Roman occupational army. The Fortress of Antonia was formerly a palace and was adjacent to the temple. A tunnel connected it into the Jewish Courts of the temple and stairs to the Court of the Gentiles, giving Roman soldiers immediate access into the temple.

Fortress of Antonia

The Messiah’s future reign over Rome and the nations. “Ask of me, and I will make nations your heritage and the ends of the earth your possession. You shall break them with a rod of iron and dash them to pieces like a potters vessel. Now therefore, O Kings, be wise be warned, O rulers of the earth. Serve the Lord with fear, with trembling kiss his feet lest he be angry, and you perish in the way for his wrath is quickly kindled. Blessed are all those who take refuge in him.” Psalm 2: 8-11

John the Baptist heralded the news of Messiah’s coming
John the Baptist proclaimed a baptism of repentance in preparation for the Messiah’s kingdom being established. John witnessed that Jesus was the Messiah. “And they came to John the Baptist, and said to him, “Rabbi, he who was with you beyond the Jordan, to whom you bore witness, here he is, baptizing, and all are going to him.” John answered, ”No one can receive anything except what is given him from heaven. You yourselves bear me witness, that I said, I am not the Christ, but I have been sent before him.” John 4:26-28.

Jesus identified John the Baptist as Elijah. “For all the prophets and the law prophesied until John; and if you are willing to accept it, he is Elijah who is to come. He, who has ears to hear, let him hear.” Matthew 11: 13-15. Malachi 4: 5. Luke 1: 17.
Also John records in his gospel, “Jesus said, “There is another who bears witness to me, and I know that the testimony which he bears to me is true. You sent to John (Baptist) and he has borne witness to the truth . . . But the testimony which I have is greater than that of John; for the works which the Father has granted me to accomplish, these very works which I am doing bear witness that the Father has sent me.” John 5: 32.

Under Law the testimony of two witnesses is true.
John the Baptist bore witness to Jesus with his baptism in preparation of the coming kingdom of God. God bore witness to Jesus that he was the Messiah in the works, healing and miracles that he did. John the Baptist did not do any signs. John 10: 41
“Jesus said, “In your law it is written that the testimony of two men is true I bear witness to myself and the Father, who sent me bears witness to me.” John 8: 17.

Jesus crucified

“The Messiah’s Secret.” page 83
“As the people watched Jesus dying on the cross someone shouted, ’Lets see if Elijah will come and take him down.’ Mark 15: 36. They expected Elijah to come at the Passover, he was to come and announce the Messiah’s arrival. The man who shouted wanted to see if Elijah would come and rescue Jesus before he died and proclaim him as the Messiah, then they would believe in him. “Come down from the cross and we will believe in him,” said the chief priests, scribes and elders.”
“At the Passover table a place is set for Elijah, the herald of the Messiah, and he would announce that the Messiah had at last come. For the rabbis say the Messiah is most likely to come on the night of the Passover, so the traditional cup and an empty chair awaits him.”
It is not surprising that the people were not aware that Elijah had already come because John himself was puzzled by Jesus, why he did not proclaim himself as the Messiah? John the Baptist had identified Jesus as the Messiah to his own disciples.

John the Baptist sent his disciples to enquire from Jesus was he the Messiah? Jesus responded by showing them the signs, the blind had received their sight, the lame walked, lepers were cleansed, the deaf heard, the dead were raised up and the poor had the gospel preached to them. Isaiah’s prophecy of the Messiah’s ministry was partially fulfilled by Jesus.
“The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, because he has anointed me to preach the good news to the poor. He has sent me to proclaim release to the captives and recovering of sight to the blind, to set at liberty those who are oppressed, to proclaim the acceptable year of the Lord. And he closed the book.” Luke 4: 18, 19.
He stopped half way through verse two, he did not say the remaining words which are significant. “And the day of vengeance of our God; to comfort all who mourn.” Isaiah 61: 2
John the Baptist was expecting the Messiah to Bring in the Day of Vengeance. “His winnowing fork in his hand, clearing his threshing floor, and gather the wheat into his granary, but the chaff he would burn with unquenchable fire, the unquenchable fire of the Day of Vengeance, judgement. Luke 3:16,17.

The Messiah’s secret Jesus had to fulfil the cost of redeeming us from sin on the cross before he could bring in the Day of Vengeance. This did not allow Jesus to make it widely known that he was the Messiah.

A word I was given on 30th May 1996 was that, “The disciples were setting up the kingdom in at the beginning of Acts.” It was as I understood to be in preparation for Jesus’ return with the angels of God. Mark 8:38
The disciples of Jesus were expecting Jesus to return soon, because he had said, “There are some standing here who will not taste death before they see that the kingdom of God has come with power. ”Mark 9:1. Luke 9: 27.

Times of Refreshing.
“When the disciples were together just before Jesus’ ascension, they asked him if he would restore at this time the kingdom to Israel? Would he bring in the times of refreshing, the restoration of the throne and land of King David, the Messiah’s reign?
Jesus’ response, “It is not for you to know times or seasons which the Father has fixed by his own authority. But you shall receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you; and you shall be my witnesses in Jerusalem and all in Judea and Samaria and to the end of the earth.” Acts 1: 6-8

The Healing of the man at Gate Beautiful
At Pentecost for the first time the disciples proclaimed Jesus as the Messiah. Shortly afterwards Peter and John were going up to the temple to pray. As they came to the ‘Gate Beautiful’ were asked for alms from a crippled man who begged there regularly. Peter looked at him and said to him I have no money, but in the name of Jesus of Nazareth, ‘Walk.’ Peter took the man’s hand and as he rose up from the ground because his feet and ankles were strengthened. The man jumped up and began to walk and leap praising God. As the crowd gathered Peter gave testimony to the resurrection of Jesus and announced that they and their rulers had crucified Jesus in ignorance. If they would repent, the Lord would bring in the times of refreshing and send Jesus the appointed Messiah.
After saying this Peter and John were arrested and later brought before Caiaphas and others to be questioned. Peter and John witnessed to the resurrection of Jesus and that this man had been healed at ‘Gate Beautiful’ in Jesus’ name. Before they were released Caiaphas instructed them not to speak or teach in Jesus’ name. (To be found in Acts 3 and 4)
For several years the Christian community met in Jerusalem, witnessing to Jesus’ resurrection and that he was the Messiah.
“A great many priests were obedient to the faith.” Acts 6: 7
After Stephen’s death the persecution of Christians began.
The Dispersion of the Jerusalem Community of believers.

“And on that day a great persecution arose against the church in Jerusalem; and they were all scattered throughout the region of Judea and Samaria, except the Apostles. Those who were scattered went about preaching the word.” Acts 8: 1.

Kingdom authority was exercised by the Apostles in preparation of Jesus’ return.
In Acts 8: 4 – 24 we read that after the dispersion, Philip travelled to the city of Samaria and proclaimed that Jesus was the Christ.
Simon the Sorcerer was a prominent man in the city of Samaria, he was highly esteemed by the Samaritans for performing magic. He seduced the people into thinking that he was more than just a man, but a god.

“Ancient ecclesiastical writers say that Simon claimed he was the father who gave the law to Moses that he came in the reign of Tiberius in the person as the son: that he descended upon the disciples at Pentecost in flames of fire; that he was the Messiah, the Paraclete, and Jupiter and the woman who accompanied him called Helena was Minerva, or the first intelligence.” Notes from Dake’s Annotated Reference Bible

The Bible makes it quite clear from both Old and New Testaments that engaging in Sorcerery (Witchcraft) is not to be practiced.
“Any one who practices divination, a soothsayer, or an auger, or a sorcerer, or a charmer, or a medium, or a wizard, or a necromancer. For whoever does these things is an abomination to the Lord.” Deuteronomy 18: 10-12.

“The Adversary” by Mark I Bubeck. 1975 “Witchcraft - This sin of the flesh springs from our desire to contact the relate to the mysterious spirit world. In rebellious curiosity, we desire to learn the mysteries of the unseen world in a manner other than that revealed by God in His Word. This fleshly sin of witchcraft includes the whole occult realm. Ouija boards, tarot cards, séances, spiritism, levitation, astrology, the pendulum, and such like tools of this sin.”
St. Paul includes sorcerers (witchcraft) in his list “Now the works of the flesh are plain; fornication, impurity, licentiousness, idolatry, sorcerers, strife, coveting, those who do such things shall not inherit the kingdom of God.” Galatians 5: 19, 20. These words of Paul still apply to Christians today.
Mustard Tree
“Jesus said therefore, “What is the kingdom of God like? And to what shall I compare it? It is like a grain of mustard seed which a man sowed in his garden; it grew and became a tree and the birds of the air made nests in its branches." Luke 13: 18, 19.
The seed of faith is sown in the heart, in the garden of a persons’ life. The birds which represent principalities and powers of darkness if allowed will come and build nests in the branches of our tree.
If we take onboard some of the New Age philosophises and practices they become nests, strongholds in our spiritual life.
During my life time I’ve seen a rise in popularity of “New Age” spirituality. It takes spiritual elements from an assortment of religions from all over the world.
In our shopping Arcades and town centres, New Age shops promote books, games and on T.V. drama and films.

Wikipedia “The New Age (also referred to as the New Age Movement, New Age spirituality, and Cosmic Humanism) is a decentralized Western social and spiritual movement that seeks “Universal Truth” and the attainment of the highest individual human potential. It includes aspects of Occultism, astrology, esotericism, metaphysics, alternative medicine, music, collectivism, sustainability, and nature. New Age spirituality is characterized by an individual approach to spiritual practices and philosophies, and the rejection of religious doctrine and dogma.

New Age practices and philosophies sometimes draw inspiration from major world religions: Buddhism, Chinese folk religion, Christianity, Hinduism, Islam, Judaism; with particularly strong influences from East Asian religions, Gnosticism, Neopaganism, New Thought, Spiritualism, Theosophy, Universalism and Western esotericism. Additional terms for the movement include ‘All is One’ and ‘Mind, Body-Spirit.’”

Spiritual Health check The Manchester Diocese Healing Diocesan Day on the 4th October 2008 the guest speaker was Rev Beatrice Brandon the Healing Advisor of Archbishop’s Canterbury and York and one of the two co-editors of the ‘A Time to Heal’ Report.

As part of ‘A Time to Heal’ report Beatrice had contacted 90 Contemporary and Alternative Medicine establishments, she discovered that many were ‘New Age’ or coming from Eastern religions. On each one she did an analysis, finding out what the therapies and treatments were, how much people paid for them.

In one of the afternoon sessions as Beatrice Brandon spoke, a lady present stated that she was a Reiki practitioner and during one of her procedures she had a vision of Jesus, which resulted in her starting to attend an Anglican Church. She asked Beatrice was it possible to continue with her Reiki practice? Beatrice’s reply was ‘How can you equate Reiki symbols you use with Christian beliefs?’ The ladies response was that she didn’t want to give up her ‘powers.’ Later at the Communion service this lady came forward for anointing and the laying on of hands for healing.

Beatrice remarked on how people coming to church after having therapy treatments are shaped in their beliefs regarding the healing ministry so when they attend a church to receive healing in most cases they first have to go through a process of undoing the methodology of the practitioner. Beatrice concluded with guidance for any Christian seeking or being offered Contemporary and Alternative Medicine, ‘Always research the background, studying and reflecting upon the ways organizations and practitioners present their position, in order to understand their point of view on health and healing and approaches they offer and to discern where there may be differences between their understanding and Christian doctrine and teaching.’ (Taken from Resources for Training. B. Brandon)

Jesus’ baptism of repentance for forgiveness for sin and the receiving of the gift of the Holy Spirit.
Simon was amazed at the signs and great miracles that were performed by Philip and when he heard the gospel from Philip he believed and was baptised.

Jesus’ Baptism of Repentance glimpsed in Book of Exodus
During the Israelites wilderness journey we see a glimpse of Jesus’ baptism of repentance. After crossing the Red Sea the Israelites 600,000 people began their journey towards the promised land, the land of Canaan. After travelling through the wilderness of Shur for three days they had run out of water. When they came to Marah, they found to their dismay, that the water there was bitter and undrinkable. Due to this they murmured against Moses. He cried out to God for his help. God told Moses to throw a tree into the water and the water became sweet and drinkable.
Exodus 15: 22 – 25

Jesus’ Baptism of Repentance
The bitter water of sin.
The tree, the cross where sin was dealt with by Jesus.
The sweet water of sins forgiven.

Water Baptism whether it is by sprinkling or immersing in water. It is making an outward expression, a public declaration, of accepting Jesus as Saviour. It is also were a person is crucified with Christ, in dying to sin through confession of sin against God, our heart is washed clean with the sacrificial blood of Christ. We are raised up in the likeness of Jesus’ resurrection.

Water speaks of the Holy Spirit. John 7: 37 On the last day of the Feast of Tabernacles, “Jesus said, “Is there anyone thirsty, then let them come to me and drink.” He spoke of the Holy Spirit who would be poured out after his resurrection and ascension.


The Holy Spirit is part of having faith in Jesus.
To enable the central heating system to work the pilot light is lit. The Holy Spirit responds to our faith in Jesus, he quickens our spirit when we have accepted Jesus as our Saviour. At some point on our Journey of faith we are empowered by the Holy Spirit for service and it is like the central heating coming on, ‘Whoosh.’

My sister Irene had already made a commitment of faith to follow Jesus, (her pilot light lit) and when three of her children were baptised at St. Gabriel’s Anglican Church, Manchester, England, she received the gift of the Holy Spirit empowering her for service. (It was like the central heating coming on.)

The Holy Spirit received through the laying on of hands
The Christians at Samaria had been baptised by Philip, however the gift of the Holy Spirit had not been given. Peter and John came from Jerusalem to pray for them that they might receive the Holy Spirit. When Simon saw that the gift of the Holy Spirit was received through the laying on of hands he wanted to buy the ability, the power to lay his hands on people to receive the Holy Spirit.

In 1980 I regularly attended a Friday night prayer meeting, it was at one of these meetings that I received the gift of the Holy Spirit through the laying on of hands. The Vicar at the time had the gift of praying for people to receive the Holy Spirit through the laying on of hands. At least forty people if not more were blessed by his ministry, and as a result we were empowered for service within the body of believers.
Scripture teaches us that we should not lay hands on a person without seeking their permission first. 1 Timothy 5: 22

Confirmation
The laying on of hands at a Confirmation service is where the church seeks to give the gift of the Holy Spirit to a believer, like those Christians at Samaria.
It is also confirms membership of the church of England.

The Messiah’s Secret – page 111“Simon the man who wanted to buy the power to lay hands on people to receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. Peter said to him, “Your silver perish with you, because you thought that you could obtain the gift with money!” Peter told him to repent, Simon was afraid that something might happen to him, so he said to Peter, “Pray for me, to the Lord, that nothing of what you have said may come upon me.” Peter forgave Simon.
Jesus the corner stone, everyone who falls on that stone will be broken to pieces; but when it falls on anyone it will crush them. The ruling rod of iron, sin and the causes of sin will be rooted out.” Psalm 2: 9. Isaiah 8: 14, 15. Mark 9: 42-50. 11: 12-14, 20. Matthew 15: 13. Matthew 13: 41, 42. 1 Corinthians 15: 24, 25. Revelations 19: 15.

Disciples commissioned by Jesus Simon was afraid that Peter’s words had the power to pass judgement upon him because on the evening of the Day of the Resurrection, when the Apostles were gathered together in the house in Jerusalem. Jesus came and stood in the midst of them. He said to them, “Peace be with you,” Their restless hearts must have calmed in a moment with Jesus presence entering into the room.
On one occasion I took a pottery order to the home Sister Irenie Mary, an Anglican Nun in Blackburn. On entering her house she greeted me and the peace of the Lord flowed out from her. It was a memorable moment.
Jesus calmed the Apostles fears with his greeting and proceeded to instruct them, sending them out with the good news of his resurrection and giving them the power to retain the sin of anyone and also the power to forgive the sins of anyone. Peter carried this out with devastating effect when he retained the sins of Ananias and his wife Sapphira. They were members of the Christian Community that met in Jerusalem. They had sold a piece of land and the proceeds they were giving to the community. However they kept some money back and when they gave the money they lied as to the amount that they had received from the sale. Peter spoke to them individually about it. Peter first of all told Ananias that he had lied not to a man but to God and he fell down and died on the spot. The same thing happened to his wife. Sin and the causes of sin had been rooted out by Peter. They both had been crushed by the stone.

Everyone who falls on that stone will be broken.
Peter response was decisive which brought condemnation and a Godly fear on Simon. Simon fell on the stone and was broken, humbled, he repented of wanting to buy the power to enable people to receive the Holy Spirit through him.
Asking Peter to pray for him meant that Simon was willing to lay down his pride, which for him was a big change, as he had exalted himself over the people of Samaria.

The Messiah's Secret - Jesus the King

“The Messiah’s Secret” - Jesus the King
Using the Revised Standard Version (RSV) Bible.

Visual Aids are used in this talk.
A Cross is made of textile material large enough to accommodate items on the following list.

Jewelled crown
Towel
Picture of Jesus’ entry into Jerusalem on a donkey
Picture of the empty cross
Purple Robe & Crown
Aid Agencies Brochure
Bunch of grapes

These are placed inside the cross.
Each one is pulled out in turn and its significance explained.
The verses of scripture can be handed out and read at the appropriate time.


Material large enough to accommodate the largest object. (An A3 piece of paper would be quite large enough)
A piece of cloth is cut to form two crosses and then sewn together along the dotted lines.
Leave open the four ends to enable the objects to be placed inside the cross and pulled out at the appropriate time. This cross does not have an image of Jesus on it because it represents the risen Christ.
The cross a place of change, a cross roads.
Life is often described as a journey and at some point we may be challenged to take a step of faith in the direction of Jesus.

Faith
A couple sat in their car on the hard should of a motorway as their car had broken down. Eventually someone stopped and asked if they could help. Only to find that the couple were deaf and they had been praying and waiting for some one to stop and give assistance. Their prayers had been answered.

Jesus born a King

When wise men from the East came to Jerusalem they asked Herod, “Where is he who has been born King of the Jews?” Matthew 2: 1, 2.
These men who visited Jerusalem were eastern in origin and probably came from Persia or Media.
They used a significant term; “Born a King” Jesus’ was not anointed a King by the chief priest or by a prophet like Samuel who had anointed Saul and David to be King. Jesus was born a king.

Jesus the Servant King

The description of the Servant King found in the Old Testament.
King Solomon had died and his son Rehoboam was made King by the people at Shechem. Afterwards they asked the new King to relieve them of the heavy yoke that his father Solomon had placed upon them.” Your father made our yoke heavy. Now therefore lighten the hard service of your father and his heavy yoke upon us, and we will serve you.” 1 Kings 12: 4
Wisely King Rehoboam consulted the elders who had served under Solomon. The advice that they gave him pointed to the mark of a good King.
“And they said to him, “If you will be a servant to this people today and serve them, and speak good words to them when you answer them, then they will be your servants for ever.” 1 Kings 12: 7.King Rehoboam took no notice of the elder’s advice; instead he took the advice of his friends who encouraged him to increase the burdens upon his people.

The Elders description of the Servant King verse 7 in two parts:
Part 1 “If you will be a servant to this people today and serve them.”Jesus taught his disciples, if anyone would be first, he must be last and servant of all.
Jesus demonstrated this when he himself took upon the servants role in doing the menial task of washing his disciples feet. On arrival at the house were they were to eat the Passover meal. With Jesus showing complete loss of distinction, the greatest man who has ever lived becoming the servant of all. Jesus took off his garments and wrapped a towel around his waist and washed his disciples feet, afterwards he put his garments back on and said to them, ”Do you understand what I have done to you. You call me teacher and Lord. You are right for so I am.” Their Lord and teacher had taken off his garments and became their servant.
Jesus must have seen the basin, towel and water were already there in the room. It was customary to have their feet washed on arrival. No one from among his disciples had offered to do the servants job of washing their feet on entering the house. So Jesus used this every day task to demonstrate the greatest becoming the servant of all.

Part 2 “And speak good words to them when you answer them, then they will be your servants for ever.”
“Jesus said, “Come to me, all who labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me; for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.” Matthew 11: 28 – 30.
These are the good words of our servant King, ‘Come to me,’ Jesus’ personal testimony of suffering being weary and burdened with well doing and the cost of laying down his life. We learn to give our burdens to the one who was willing to shoulder them on the cross. At some point on our Christian journey we will suffer, if we lean on Jesus as we go through it, then we find suffering strengthens us. This results in lightening the burden. His call upon us, to follow him, and enter into his rest. Our lives are hidden with Christ in God for ever.

Jesus King of Peace

From my reading of the gospels Jesus had a great presence of peace about him. He always spoke the truth and with great authority interpreted the Hebrew Scriptures, with signs following his message of healing and miracles. I also see a side to him of meekness, unassuming kindness, being at everyone’s beck and call. It is not surprising that the people wanted to make him their King.
Leaders of the Jewish Sanhedrin would be aware of Jesus’ growing influence upon the people especially after Lazarus had been raised from the dead. The crowd who had witnessed this bore witness to others. The reason many of the people who laid down palm branches when Jesus entered Jerusalem was because they had heard about Lazarus. They recognised Jesus as their King, they shouted, “Hosanna! Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord, even the King of Israel!”
John records the fulfilment of Zechariah’s prophecy, “Fear not, daughter of Zion; behold, your King is coming, sitting on an ass’s colt!” John 12: 13 – 17.
After Jesus entered the city he was soon surrounded by a crowd, when he finished speaking with them, John wrote, “When Jesus said this, he departed and hid himself from the crowd.” John 12: 36. Jesus knew that being recognised by the people as their King was good, but it was not the time to make him their King.

On another occasion
“Perceiving then that they were about to come and take him by force to make him King, Jesus withdrew again to the mountain by himself.” John 6: 15
After the miracle of feeding of the 5,000 people on the hillside, some of them wanted make Jesus their King. When Jesus heard of their plan, he withdrew himself, walked away.

Had the people taken Jesus by force to be their King without the approval, acceptance of the Sanhedrin. It would have been unlawful, insurrection. God would not allow that to take place, it was for the nation’s leaders to recognise Jesus as the Messiah. But that couldn’t take place until after Jesus’ death and resurrection and ascension. He had first had to accomplish God’s plan of salvation for Israel and the rest of the world.

The Jews did not believe that the Christ would come and die.
“And the inscription of the charge against him read, “The King of the Jews.” And with him they crucified two robbers, one on his right and the other on his left. And they who passed by derided him, wagging their heads, and saying, “Aha! You who would destroy the temple and build it in three days, save yourself, and come down from the cross”” So also the chief priests mocked him to one another with the scribes, saying,” He saved others; he cannot save himself. Let the Christ, the King of Israel, come down from the cross, that we may see and believe.” Those who were crucified with him also reviled him.” Mark 15:26 – 32

They were taught under law that the Christ would not come and die. “The crowd answered him, “We have heard from the law that when the Christ comes he will remain for ever.” John 12: 34
The Jews at that time didn’t believe that God would allow their Messiah to come and die. They expected the Christ to come and take up the throne of King David and rule from Jerusalem the eternal kingdom of God. 2 Samuel 7: 12 – 17

Even Jesus’ own brothers did not understand his secrecy.
The Messiah’s Secret” page 72“His brothers tried to advise Jesus to go to Judea even though they knew that the Jews sought to kill him there. They said,”For no man works in secret if he seeks to be known openly. If you do these things, show yourself to the world.” For even his brothers did not believe in him” John7: 3-5
After the ascension we read that his brothers were in the house waiting with the other disciples for the coming of the Holy Spirit. Acts 1: 14.
Jesus’ brothers discovered the truth about Jesus and they were open about it. Our hearts search for the truth, but when we find it, it is not easy to overcome our pride and be open to others acknowledging a change of heart.

Jesus prophesied his death and resurrection on many occasions.
“From that time Jesus began to show his disciples that he must go to Jerusalem and suffer many things from the elders and chief priests and scribes, and be killed, and on the third day be raised.” Matthew 16: 21
“And taking the twelve, Jesus said to them, “Behold, we are going up to Jerusalem and everything that is written of the Son of man by the prophets will be accomplished. For he will be delivered to the Gentiles, and will be mocked and shamefully treated and spit upon; they will scourge him and kill him, and on the third day he will rise. But they understood none of these things; this saying was hid from them, and they did not grasp what was said.” Luke 18:31-34
After Jesus’ resurrection and ascension Peter at Pentecost proclaims that Jesus’ death was in the plan of God. “Men of Israel hear these words: Jesus of Nazareth, a man attested to you by God with mighty works and wonders and signs which God did through him in you midst, as you yourselves know this Jesus, delivered up according to the definite plan and foreknowledge of God . . . . .”Acts 2: 22,23.

Jesus the king of the Jews

One of the charges brought against Jesus by the council, was that they accused him of making himself a king like Cesar. The soldiers platted a crown of thorns and put it on his head, and arrayed him in a purple robe; mocking him they came up to him saying,”Hail, King of the Jews!” They also put a reed in his hand.

The chief priest opposed the inscription “This is the King of the Jews” being nailed to Jesus’ cross. Inspite of this the inscription was put on the cross in several languages.

Those authorities who did believe in him did not acknowledge Jesus openly for fear of being put out of the synagogue. John12: 42. The leading Jews had already agreed if any one should acknowledge Jesus as being the Christ they would be put out of the synagogue. John 9: 22.

Jesus the King of Love
“For God so loved the world that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life.” John 3: 16

Jesus descended to the dead
Joseph of Arimathea and Nicodemus took Jesus’ dead body down from the cross. They carried him to Joseph of Arimathea’s empty tomb. Matthew 27: 57 – 60.
Peter wrote in his letter to the Jews of the dispersion wrote that Jesus during those three days after his death he went and preached the gospel to those who were being held in what Peter described as a prison. Those who had died, without having the opportunity to accept Jesus as their Saviour during their life time.
“For Christ also died for sins once for all, the righteous for the unrighteous, that he might bring us to God, being put to death in the flesh but made alive in the spirit. In which he went and preached to the spirits in prison, who in former days did not obey, when God’s patience waited in the days of Noah, during the building of the ark, in which few, that is, eight persons, were saved through water.” 1 Peter 3:18 – 20
“For this is why the gospel was preached even to the dead, that though judged in the flesh like men, they might live in the spirit like God.” 1 Peter 4: 6.
Those who accepted Jesus rose with him on the day of his resurrection. “”And coming out of the tombs after his resurrection they went into the holy city and appeared too many.” Matthew 27: 53. “When he ascended on high he led a host of captives, and he gave gifts to men. (In saying, “He ascended,” what does it mean but that he also descended into the lower parts of the earth?”)
Ephesians 4: 8, 9.
Another teaching from this is the separation between the flesh and the spirit.
When God created us he gave a physical body and he breathed life into us so we became a living being. Comprising of body, soul and spirit. The soul and the spirit being the parts of us that leaves the body at death.
Taking an envelope in it we place the letter. The envelope is like our bodies and the letter like our spirit. When we remove the letter from the envelope it is like the separation that takes place when we die our soul/spirit leaves our bodies.
The envelope of our bodies returns to dust, dead matter, which cannot be destroyed and will one day be gathered by God, to form our resurrected body. Our soul/spirit is escorted by angels to be with Jesus in a place prepared for us in his Father’s house in heaven.

Living our lives in the Spirit
Just as in death a separation takes place between the flesh and the spirit/soul. When we accepted Jesus as our Saviour a transformation takes place within our human soul/spirit, this change unites us with Jesus, God our Father and his Holy Spirit, separating us from our former way of life.
“For the word of God is living and active, sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing to the division of soul and spirit, of joints and marrow, and discerning the thoughts and intentions of the heart.” Hebrews 4: 12.
As we progress on our Christian journey there can be a struggle between the desires of the flesh and the Spirit of God dwelling within us. Please myself rather than pleasing the Lord. The Holy Spirit will help us to discern and how to apply scripture to enable us to overcome them.

Jesus King of Kings

He said to Pilate, “My kingship is not of this world; if my kingship were of this world, my servants would fight, that I might not be handed over to the Jews; but my kingship is not from the world.” Pilate said to him, “So you are a king?” Jesus answered, “You say that I am a king. For this I was born, and for this I have come into the world, to bear witness to the truth.”

Most Kings have titles: Supreme governor, Chief of Military, Defender of the Faith etc. Some of Jesus’ titles: King of Kings, Lord of Lords, Wonderful, Counsellor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. Isaiah wrote, “For to us a child is born, to us a son is given; and the government will be upon his shoulder, and his name will be called . . . . . . . . .of the increase of his government and of peace there will be no end, upon the throne of David, and over his kingdom, to establish it, and to uphold it with justice and with righteousness from this time forth for evermore. The zeal of the Lord of Hosts will do this.” Isaiah 9: 6, 7. Isaiah prophesied the Messiah’s reign.

The prophesies of King David had been fulfilled by Jesus.
“But God raised Jesus up, having loosed the pangs of death, because it was not possible for him to be held by it. For David says concerning him ‘I saw the Lord always before me, for he is at my right hand that I may not be shaken; therefore my heart was glad, and my tongue rejoiced; moreover my flesh will dwell in hope. For thou will not abandon my soul to Hades, nor let thy Holy One see corruption. “ Acts 2: 24 – 27. Psalm 16: 8 -11.”For David did not ascend into the heavens; but he himself says, ‘The Lord said to my Lord, Sit at my right hand, till I make all your enemies a stool for your feet.” Acts 2: 34,35.

Jesus could only be received by the nation of Israel as their Messiah, after Jesus’ death, resurrection and ascension.

Jesus would have brought in the times of refreshing, restoration of the land, establishing the eternal kingdom and throne of King David. If he had been recognised as the Messiah at and after Pentecost by the leaders of Israel.

It was at Pentecost when for the first time the disciples proclaimed Jesus as the promised Messiah. “Peter and John spoke to the crowd in Solomon’s Portico, ‘and now brethren, I know you acted in ignorance as did your rulers. But what God foretold by the mouth of all the prophets, that his Christ should suffer, he thus fulfilled. Repent therefore, and turn again, that your sins may be blotted out, that the times of refreshing may come from the presence of the Lord and that he may send the Christ appointed for you, Jesus. . . . . . ’” Acts 3:17 - 20.
Now was the time for the leaders of Israel to recognise their King and Messiah.

A word I was given on 30th May 1996 was that, “The disciples were setting up the kingdom in at the beginning of Acts.” It was as I understood to be in preparation for his return with the angels of God. Mark 8:38

The Aid agencies have schemes to buy a goat for Africans etc as a present for a friend.
It really does work! In a village in Bangladesh villagers have been given goats paid for by these gifts that make the difference between survival or death. 5 goats then sold to buy a cow.

Christian prophet Agabus prophesied a great famine over the entire world.
In the days of Emperor Claudius there was a famine over the entire known world. The Christians at Antioch sent relief to the Christians who lived in Judea.
King Herod was in authority to distribute grain and other food grown in Galilee. The people in Tyre and Sidon depended on their trade links with Galilee to obtain food.

“Herod Agrippa grandson of Herod the great was born in 11BC. He grew up in Rome. In AD37 Herod was given the tetrarchies of Iturea, Trachonitis and Gaulinitis by the Roman Emperor Gaius, who also conferred on him the title of King. Later he was given rule over Galilee and Perea, and still later, under Claudius, his rule was extended to include Judea and Sameria. (Eyre and Spottiswoode Study Bible.)

Centuries before trade links had been established, when Hiram King of Sidon had made a treaty with King Solomon. Hiram would supply Solomon with Lebanon Cedars and Cypress trees along with carpenters to help build Solomon’s temple in Jerusalem. In exchange for 20,000 cors of wheat and 20,000 cors of beaten oil. 1 Kings 5: 1 – 12.
Much later in Ezekiel time he records the trade between Judah and Tyre. Tyre exchanged there merchandise for wheat, olives, early figs, honey, oil and balm. Ezekiel 27: 17

Herod Agrippa was angry with the people of Tyre and Sidon. The reason for his displeasure is not known. A delegation from Tyre and Sidon seeking peace had arranged with Herod’s Chamberlain Blastus to meet with King Herod.

Herod put on his kingly robes and sat on his throne gave an oration to the delegates from Tyre and Sidon. After Herod had spoken the delegates shouted, “The voice of a god and not of man!”
Herod’s demise, “Immediately an angel of the Lord struck Herod with an illness. He died 5 days later. First century historian Josephus wrote: “Herod fell into the deepest sorrow; a severe pain arose in his bowels, and he died after 5 days of illness.”
Herod’s death was seen by the writer of this account as an act of God because he did not give God the glory. In the following verse he wrote, “But the word of God grew and multiplied.”

Herod had earlier Killed James the brother of John and had arrested Peter and later by a miracle was freed from the jail by an angel. With the death of Herod Agrippa 1, the threat of Christians being arrested was diminished.

King of the Kingdom of God
Taking the view of the writer of this account in Acts 12: 23 “Immediately an angel of the Lord smote him, because he did not givethe glory to God; and he was eaten up by worms and died.” I saw this as evidence that God was upholding the disciples and followers of Jesus in their preparation for Jesus’ return within their life time. They were setting up the Kingdom of God in anticipation of Jesus’ return with the angels of God. Mark 8: 38.

Moses and John the Apostle prophesied the Messiah’s ruling with a rod of iron.
“Moses said, “The Lord God will raise up for you a prophet from your brethren as he raised me up. You shall listen to him in what ever he tells you. And it shall be that every soul that does not listen to that prophet will be destroyed from the people.” Acts 3: 22, 23
“He who conquers and who keeps my works until the end. I will give power over the nations, and he shall rule them with a rod of iron, as when earthen pots are broken in pieces, even as I myself have received power from my Father.” Revelations 2: 27


Jesus’ parable of the Vineyard
Israel the tenants were left in charge of the vineyard, the owner of the vineyard sent a servant to collect a proportion of the fruit. He was beaten and sent away empty handed. Another servant was sent but he was wounded and sent away. Finally the owner sent his son thinking that they would respect him. They killed him, casting him out of the vineyard. Jesus asked them a question, “What will the owner do? Jesus told them, “He will destroy those tenants and give the vineyard to others to produce the fruit of it.”
The Pharisees who were listening when they heard, they said, “God forbid.”
Jesus continued and quoted from Psalm 118: 22 “The very stone which the builders rejected has become the head of the corner. Every one who falls on that stone will be broken to pieces; but when it falls on any one it will crush him.” These words at the end speak of the ruling rod of iron of the Messiah’s reign.

The Jews were a rebellious people. During their history they were constantly falling away from the Laws of Moses. Prophets had been sent by God to make them aware of their sin, but they were treated with contempt. Finally God sent his Son and the leaders took no notice of his word and when he was proclaimed the Messiah by the Apostles at Pentecost the leaders rejected their witness of Jesus’ resurrection and ascension.
Those who did accept him were broken, “Now when they heard this they were cut to the heart and said this to the apostles. What shall we do? And Peter said to them, “Repent and be baptised every one of you in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins; and you shall receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.” Acts 2: 37, 38.
Those who rejected the message would be crushed. Woe to you Lawyers! For you have taken away the key of knowledge; you did not enter yourselves, and you hindered those who were entering.” Luke 11: 52

Jesus’ return delayed.
Clearly Jesus did not return within the life time of the Apostles. The authority the apostles had in setting up the Kingdom of God in preparation for Jesus’ return, changed with the destruction of the temple in AD70.

Daniel’s Vision of 70 Week’s“Know therefore and understand that from the going forth of the word to restore and build Jerusalem to the coming of an anointed one, a prince there shall be 7 weeks. And after the sixty-two weeks, an anointed one shall be cut off, and shall have nothing; and the people and the prince who is to come shall destroy the city and sanctuary.”
Daniel 9:25, 26.

One week in Daniel’s vision is counted as 7 years
Total 69 weeks 483 years. 1 week still to be fulfilled.
The rebuilding of the second temple took place during the reign of Darius 522 – 486 BC and was completed in the sixth year of his reign 516 BC. Ezra 6: 15.
(Abraham’s prophecy of Israel’s slavery was 400 years Genesis 15: 13. Prophecy was fulfilled after 430 years Exodus 12: 40. Not to the exact prophesied year)

The Jews were expecting Daniel’s prophesy in to be fulfilled with the coming of the Messiah. The leaders of the council of the Jews considered whether John the Baptist was the Messiah.
“As the people were in expectation, and all men questioned in their hearts concerning John, whether perhaps he were the Christ.” Luke 3: 15
Fulfilment of these two verses of Daniel’s vision with Jesus’ coming near to the prophesied time and ‘The anointed one cut off’ speaks of his rejection as being the King and Messiah of Israel and as Daniel’s prophecy predicted the destruction of Jerusalem along with the temple by the Romans in AD70

The Messiah's Secret - Jesus Son of God

The Messiah’s Secret – Jesus the Son of God
Using the Revised Standard Version (RSV) Bible.

Visual Aids are used in this talk.
A Cross is made of textile material large enough to accommodate items on the following list.

Bird
Picture of Mary and Jesus
Picture of Jesus feeding 5,000
Bible (small bible)
Picture or wooden cross
Picture of Tracker Watch
Praying hands
Picture with Newspaper article
Picture of Toybox Logo

These are placed inside the cross.
Each one is pulled out in turn and its significance explained.
The verses of scripture can be handed out and read at the appropriate time.

Material large enough to accommodate the largest object.
(An A3 piece of paper would be quite large enough)

A piece of cloth is cut to form two crosses and then sewn together along the dotted lines.
Leave open the four ends to enable the objects to be placed inside the cross and pulled out at the appropriate time.

The cross a place of change, a cross roads.
Life is often described as a journey and at some point we may be challenged to take a step of faith in the direction of Jesus.

Faith

“Therefore I tell you, do not be anxious about your life, what you shall eat or what you shall drink, nor about your body, what you shall put on. Is not life more than food, and the body more than clothing? Look at the birds of the air: they neither sow or reap nor gather into barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them.” Matthew 6: 25, 26
Christians are called to live by faith in Jesus and in God’s promises to us. These promises are found in the Bible. The greatest promise is given to us that we shall come to know God through faith in Jesus.

Jesus the Son of God

The Virgin Birth.
In 1978 Louise Joy Brown was born, she was the first test tube baby. It seemed incredible at the time. Drs Steptoe and Edwards made medical history when they developed the means were they were able to plant Leslie Brown’s fertilised egg into her womb. We take these breakthroughs in medical science for granted now, but I remember a comment at the time, ‘scientists were playing at being God.’

God intervened in human affairs when Mary gave birth to Jesus the Son of God.
Angel Gabriel had given her the message that she had been chosen, highly favoured by God to bear the Son of God. The Holy Spirit would overshadow her, God fertilised the egg in Mary’s womb, without her flesh being touched. Mary gave Jesus his humanity; God the Father of Jesus gave him his Divinity.

To have faith in the Virgin Birth is to believe that all things are possible with God. When a person receives healing through prayer, God heals within the body, without touching the flesh.

Angel Gabriel gave to Mary a prophesy that God would give Jesus the throne of his father David, and that he would reign over the house of Jacob for ever.
Even the angels were not aware that Jesus had to die on a cross, be raised from the dead and ascend into heaven, and come again before he could take up the throne of King David and reign over the house of Jacob for ever.

Jesus the Son of living God

Jesus had the words of eternal life; the words he gave his disciples have been recorded by them in the Gospels. “Jesus said to Philip, “Have I been with you so long, and yet you do not know me, Philip? He who has seen me has seen the Father; how can you say, ‘Show us the Father’? Do you not believe that I am in the Father and the Father in me? The words that I say to you I do not speak on my own authority; but the Father who dwells in me does his works. Believe me that I am in the Father and the Father in me; or believe me for the sake of the works themselves.” John 14: 9 – 11

Jesus the only Son of God. It is recorded by eye witnesses at the time that he raised the dead, changed water into wine, manufactured bread and fishes, created new flesh were the person’s flesh had been ravaged by leprosy; Jesus healed all kinds of sickness and disease. He walked on water.

Jesus manifested God’s love in his involvement with people; he loved them, showing so much compassion for the ordinary person of any age. A lot of the people in his day suffered from ill health and they came to him in there thousands for his healing touch upon their lives. So many people were healed that he couldn’t go anywhere without the crowds following him.
There were also great miracles; the first one is recorded by John when Jesus was at a wedding. Just like most weddings something goes wrong. I remember being half an hour late for my wedding. At this wedding Jesus’ mother Mary came to him for his help because they had run short of wine. He didn’t send the servants out to the vineyard, but instead he told them to fill six stone purification water jars with water, each one accommodating 20/30gallons. Jesus then told the servant to draw some out, and take it to the steward of the feast. A glass of it was taken to the steward of the feast, as he tasted it he exclaimed, “Every man serves the good wine first, and when men have drunk freely, then the poor wine; but you have kept the good wine until now.”
John 2:1-11
Jesus transformed the nature of the water to wine. Through faith in him he is able to transform the nature of our hearts from knowing about God, to knowing God personally.

Bible

Jesus the Son of God came to fulfil the laws of Moses.
Jesus fulfilled the original laws of Moses and ignored any additions made by the Pharisees.
“Jesus said, “The scribes and Pharisees sit in Moses seat; so practice and observe whatever they tell you, but not what they do; for they preach, but do not practice. They bind heavy burdens, hard to bear, and lay them on men’s shoulders; but they themselves will not move them with their finger.” Matthew 23: 1 -4

“The Messiah’s Secret.” page 42
Sabbath was made for man and not man for the Sabbath.
Jesus asked the Pharisees the question: “Was it lawful to do good on the Sabbath, or to do harm, to save life or destroy it?” The Pharisees were furious. On another occasion the Pharisees said to the people there are six days on which work maybe done, come on those days and be healed and not on the Sabbath. Luke 6: 9
Jesus called them hypocrites, as they untie and lead their ox and ass to water on the Sabbath.” Which meant they too were breaking the law.” Luke 13: 11 – 17.”

Mark’s gospel records Jesus upholding the law. Jesus healed the man of leprosy and so he was instructed by Jesus to go and show himself to the priest and make an offering for his cleansing as Moses commanded in the law. Not one dot of the law would become void. God’s presence within the temple, ‘the Holy of Holies’ made the law holy and the people who kept the law righteous.

“The Messiah’s Secret” page 158
“Jesus lived up to the expectation of the Messiah regarding his miracles, but the leaders rejected his signs because he broke the Sabbath and other laws that were sacred to the Jews. The laws demanded obedience with ritual washings and sprinklings of water and sacrifices and punishment for breaking them. The Sabbath Day alone had hundred of rules over the centuries the leaders of the Sanhedrin had added their own rules to the laws given to Moses by God, because they were zealous they earned their righteousness under the law. These extra laws meant that the poorest people in Jewish society would not be able to afford the offerings that were necessary as atonement for breaking the law. The Pharisees called these people sinners. Jesus was accused of consorting with sinners and outcasts. In response he said that he had not come to call the righteous but sinners to repentance, as those keeping the law were made righteous through keeping the law whilst God’s presence was dwelling in the midst of his people in Jerusalem.”

Jesus the Son of God and High Priest
Jesus was as a descendant of King David from the tribe of Judah. They were not of the priestly line under law. Jesus the Son of God did not exalt himself to be made high priest, he was not self appointed but was appointed by God as high priest after the order of Melchizedek.

The writer of the letter to the Hebrews gives us insight into the resemblance between Melchizedek and Jesus.
“Another priest arises in the likeness of Melchizedek, who has become a priest, not according to a legal requirement concerning bodily decent but by the power of an indestructible life.”
Hebrews 7:15,16.
“So also Christ did not exalt himself to be made a high priest, but was appointed by him who said to him, “Thou art my Son, today I have begotten thee” as he also says in another place, “Thou art a priest for ever, after the order of Melchizedek.”
“Being designated by God a high priest after the order of Melchizedek.” Hebrews 5: 5, 6, 10.
“Melchizedek is without father or mother or genealogy, and has neither beginning of days nor end of life, but resembling the Son of God he continues a priest forever.” Hebrews 7: 3

Abraham (Abram) rescues Lot
The King of Chedorlamer and the three kings in allegiance with him conquered Sodom and Gomorrah. Lot and his family who lived in Sodom were taken captive by them. They took them north towards Damascus. One of Lot’s family escaped he went and told Abraham what had happened. Abraham gathered 318 his trained men and pursued them. They routed the enemy and brought Lot and his family back to Hebron.
Abraham having rescued his nephew Lot and His family brought them back to the Promised Land of Canaan. Abraham was given bread and wine and blessed by Melchizedek the high priest of God. Genesis 14: 12 – 20.

Melchizedek’s resemblance with Jesus.
The gospel of repentance had been preached by Jesus and his disciples throughout the whole of Israel. In doing so they rescued those lost to the law and brought them back into the fold. The disciples received the bread and the wine from Jesus the high priest of God. Mark 14: 22, 23
The incident between Melchizedek and Abraham took place before the law was given to Moses. Abraham’s faith in God was counted as righteousness.
Under law the Jews earned their righteousness by keeping the law
Jesus being a high priest of the order of Melchizedek. It is through faith in Jesus we are counted righteous before God.

The cross

“Although he was a Son, he learned obedience through what he suffered; and being made perfect he became the source of eternal salvation to all who obey him, being designated by God a high priest after the order of Melchizedek.” Hebrews 5: 8-10

“The Messiah’s Secret – Jesus is the High Priest and Shepherd.” page 143“Jesus fulfilled the office of high priest when he offered himself as the sacrifice, the ‘Passover Lamb’, the burnt offering, the sacrifice of atonement for the priesthood and for all the people. When he breathed his last breath, the curtain in the temple was torn from top to bottom, an act of God. It was customary for the high priest to enter the Holy of Holies once a year and sprinkle the blood of the sacrificed animal onto the mercy seat as atonement for the sins of himself, his family, the priesthood and for all the people of Israel. The offering brought for sacrifice was slain by the high priest at the door of the tabernacle. Leviticus 4: 4.
Jesus is the shepherd and he is the door by which the sheep must enter the sheepfold. John10: 9 The way to the door is through belief in him, belief in what he taught, and a way of life that love fulfils the laws of God. Jesus opens the door; his life laid down for our reconciliation with the Holy God of Israel, the cross, the sacrifice of himself puts us right with God.”

Jesus’ death a stumbling block to the Jews, they did not believe that the Messiah would become the high priest and the actual sacrifice of atonement even though their prophets had prophesied that he would. God himself had hidden it from their understanding.

These verses found in Old Testament
“The Lord had sworn and will not change his mind. You are a priest for ever after the order of Melchizedek.” Psalm 110: 4
“Yet it was the will of God to bruise him; he has put him to grief; when he makes himself an offering for sin, he shall see his offspring, he shall prolong his days; the will of the Lord shall prosper in his hand; he shall see the fruit of the travail of his soul and be satisfied; by his knowledge shall the righteous one, my servant, make many righteous; and he shall bear their iniquities.” Isaiah 53: 10, 11.

Rebuild the Temple
When Jesus said that he would rebuild the temple in three days; he meant the temple of his risen body. God raised Jesus from the dead. The apostles witnessed his resurrection and we read in Paul’s first letter to the Corinthians 15: 6 over 500 people saw Jesus during the 40 days before his ascension.

Jesus had fulfilled the law in the temple of his risen body.
“The Messiah’s Secret” Part Five: Fulfilment of the Laws in the Messiah page 92
Chapter 3: Love Fulfils the Law page 97
“St Paul writes to the Romans that love has fulfilled the law, “Owe no one anything, except to love one another; for he who loves his neighbour has fulfilled the law. The commandments, “You shall not commit adultery, you shall not kill, you shall not steal, you shall not covet,” and any other commandment are summed up in this sentence; “You shall love your neighbour as yourself. “Love does no wrong to a neighbour; therefore love is the fulfilling of the law.” The cost of loving is demanding because it takes away self-interest, serving and caring for others. Paul stating that love has fulfilled the law does not mean that the commandments are no longer in force, the Holy Spirit writes the commandments into the heart of a Christian. Christ in you means that we have the nature of God dwelling within. The Holy Spirit transforms us we feel as God feels about sin, it is aberrant to us.”

Jesus had promised that both he and his Father would come and make their home within the believer, our bodies becoming the temple of God. He would send the Holy Spirit into the world, to equip the believer with his gifts.

The temple of Christ's body.
“Do you not know that your God’s temple and that God’s Spirit dwells in you?” 1 Corinthians 3: 16
“Do you not know that your body is the temple of the Holy Spirit within you, which you have from God? You are not on your own; you were bought with a price. So glorify God in your body.”
1 Corinthians 6: 19, 20

Christ in You

My daughter uses a GPS Tracker when she goes our running. It is much bigger than a watch, and is worn on the wrist. Through the Tracker she is able to monitor her heart beat, pulse, steps, calories, speed, distance and a map of her route that she had taken. It is amazing technology. In a race she wears a tag which enables me to follow her on her route on my computer via the satellite link.
Christ in us is like wearing a tracker, it shouldn’t be surprising to us when the Lord knows our every movement, our thoughts, and he knows the condition of our body and our planned route the schedule of events in our life.
We put our faith in technology because we can operate it ourselves; we can control it.
In our relationship with the Lord, we are called to walk by faith. It means being reliant upon God to respond to our prayers. For us to listen to the still small voice of the Holy Spirit for guidance and to act on his promises to us.

This amazing relationship develops as we learn more about Jesus. Ever since I came to know Jesus personally, the Holy Spirit has shown me Jesus in the scriptures. I’ve had such a hunger and thirst to learn about Jesus and it has not diminished over time. In 1988 when we moved house, I found out that the store room in our old house was called the Bible room. I got such a surprise, for me it was a quiet place, near the kitchen.
We all need a quiet place where we can read, meditate on the Bible and pray.

Jesus High Priest of an eternal priesthood

Spending time in prayer, in conversation with God.“Consequently Jesus is able for all time to save those who draw near to God through him, since he always lives to make intercession for them. For it is fitting that we should have such a high priest, holy, blameless, unstained, separated from sinners, exalted above the heavens. . . . appoints a Son who has been made perfect for ever.” Hebrews 7: 25- 28

We direct our prayers to Jesus who intercedes for us before God
When we pray we revere or Father God’s name as we seek to fulfil his will every day for our lives: we trust in his care for us, as he provides for our needs, like the birds and all his creatures.
To ask for forgiveness were we have grieved the Holy Spirit or were we have failed to love and offer to forgiveness when we have been wronged, or hurt by others.
For the Lord’s conviction if we are tempted to look to ourselves for inspiration, guidance in order to fulfil the Lord’s call upon our lives and for protection when the evil one comes near. We earnestly desire our lives to reflect the glory of the Lord’s kingdom here on earth.

God hears our prayers because we are in him and he is in us, it is not about status or how long we’ve been a Christian. It is simply praying through faith in our Lord from our heart.
Prayers of thanksgiving and prayer for our family, our extended church family and community. For the sick and lonely, our nation and currant world affairs. Seeking always for guidance from the Holy Spirit even speaking in the language of the Holy Spirit speaking in tongues. All things working for good to praise his name. The name above all names, Jesus Christ.

Newspaper Report on the ‘Man who had everything.’

In an article in ‘Evangelism Today’ by Keith Kelly he reported on the outcome of a house and its’ contents sale in Malawi. The first item in the sale was a painting of the late owner of his son. His son had died some years before his father. It wasn’t a good painting but it showed a resemblance of him. No one wanted it except the previous owner’s house keeper, she said, “I’ll take it, I want it, I loved the father and the son. This will remind me of the happy times we had together.” Everyone laughed at her. The auctioneer brought his hammer down. “Sold to the lady over there.” Then the auctioneer did a strange thing, he said, “The sale is now finished.” Gaps broke out all over, “What did he say?” “Finished,” “Why?” The auctioneer said, “The house owner left a message in his will that whoever wanted the picture of his son could have everything else free of charge.” So the housekeeper became rich for only 50 tambala and a little bit of love.”

If we want God’s Son everything else comes free as well. The abundance of God’s grace in coming to know Jesus as our Saviour and that God is our Father and that we have an extended family across the world. Those who through faith in Jesus have become children of God too.
“To all who receive him, who believe in his name, he gave power to become children of God; who are born, not of blood nor the will of the flesh nor the will of man, but of God.” John 1: 12, 13.

Love one another

Toybox is a Children's Charity set up in 1996 to rescue the street children of Guatamala. It works in conjuction with Los Ministeries de El Castillo, Christians working on the streets supported by "Toybox" Amersham, Bucks, HP6 5YT www.toybox.org
A word I was given on 30th May 1996 was that, “The disciples were setting up the kingdom in at the beginning of Acts.” It was as I understood to be in preparation for his return with the angels of God. Mark 8:38
“The Messiah’s Secret” page 110
The Apostles expected Jesus to Return within their life time“The apostles were setting up the kingdom in preparation of Jesus’ return. They had been told by Jesus to be awake, watching, looking for his coming within their life time, to be about their master’s business.”

Jesus taught his disciples about his return through parables.
“The Messiah’s Secret” pages 53, 54“Jesus was expressing his desire to find the disciples busy at his work preaching the message of the kingdom. To love the Lord your God with all your heart, mind, soul, strength and will. To love your neighbour as yourself, to repent and believe in Jesus, the risen Christ, the Messiah. Jesus had told them that he would be returning with the angels and all the company of heaven, the King of Kings, Lord of Lords. One can only imagine the splendour of his coming. It is amazing to think of Jesus in all his splendour, his majesty, the governor of the people of Israel, greeting his disciples and gathering them together around the table in his kingdom, and having them sit as he waits upon them like a servant. The humility of God, he suffered was mocked, scourged and crowned with thorns, crucifixion a violent death, and still he comes and serves. The disciples were not to be complacent; they were to be vigilant and must not think that he was delayed in his coming. Demands would be made of those who accepted the message of the kingdom and more would be required from them to prepare for the kingdom on earth, starting at Jerusalem in anticipation of his return.” Luke 12: 35-41

There are several parables were Jesus was concerned that the disciples should be looking for his return. Luke 12: 42-48.20: 18. Matthew 24: 44. 25: 13. Mark 4: 25. 13: 33.In some of these parables the ruling rod of the kingdom is evident.

“The Messiah’s Secret” page 108
“God was calling his people to repentance. Peter had told them that the rulers and people had acted in ignorance when they crucified Jesus; he had to die to accomplish the plan of Salvation for the Jews and for the world. If they would repent and acknowledge Jesus as the Messiah, Jesus would return. The times of refreshing, after his coming he would restore the throne of King David, an everlasting throne and Kingdom, and the restoration of the land given to Abraham by God for an eternal possession. Those who were expecting, waiting would see the Kingdom come with power. Jesus the King of Kings and Lord of Lords.”

Saviour of the world
Peter confirms to them that Jesus is the one that the prophets had spoken of. “And all the prophets who have spoken, from Samuel and those who came afterwards, also proclaimed these days. You are the sons of the prophets and of the covenant which God gave to your fathers, saying to Abraham, “And in your posterity shall all the families of the earth be blessed.” God, having raised up his servant, sent him to you first, to bless you in turning every one of you from your wickedness.” Acts 3: 24 – 26.

As these words were being said the temple guards arrived and arrested Peter and John.
The Apostles were preparing for Christ’s return, but the leaders of Israel didn’t accept Jesus as their Messiah.

Approximately thirty years later, Paul invited local Jewish leaders to his house in Rome where he was under house arrest. “When they had appointed a day for him, they came to his lodging in great numbers. And he expounded the matter to them from morning till evening, testifying to the kingdom of God and trying to convince them about Jesus both from the law of Moses and from the prophets. And some were convinced by what he said, while others disbelieved. So, as they disagreed among themselves, they departed, after Paul had made one statement: “The Holy Spirit was right in saying to your fathers through Isaiah the prophet: You shall indeed hear but never understand, and you shall indeed see but never perceive . . . Let it be known to you then that this salvation of God has been sent to the Gentiles; they will listen.” Acts 28: 23 - 28