HE IS NOT HERE - HE IS RISEN

Above: On back of door in Tomb of Jesus

The reason why God commands all men everywhere to repent is…. Because he hath appointed a day, in the which he will judge the world in righteousness by that man whom he hath ordained; whereof he hath given assurance unto all men, in that he hath raised him from the dead.(Acts 17:31)

We can have assurance that the day of judgement will take place and that Jesus will judge the earth - because of the resurrection.

And I saw the dead, small and great, stand before God; and the books were opened: and another book was opened, which is the book of life: and the dead were judged out of those things which were written in the books, according to their works.
Revelation 20:12(KJV)

The Garden Tomb is believed by many to be the garden and sepulchre of Joseph of Arimathea, and therefore a possible site of the resurrection of Jesus.

So should we then try and convince an unbelieving world of the resurrection?

God’s Word is very clear about Jesus Christ resurrection appearances below:

              CHRIST’S RESURRECTION APPEARANCES

              APPEARED TO:                      

            1. Mary

                John 20:10-18                                  

            2. Mary and women

                Matthew 28:1-10                  

            3. Peter

                1 Corinthians 15:5                                   

            4. Two disciples

                 Luke 24:13-35                        

            5. Ten apostles

                 Luke 24:36-49, John 20:19-23                        

            6. Eleven apostles

                 John 20:24-31                  

            7. Seven apostles

                 John 21                     

            8. All apostles

                 Matthew 28:16-20; Mark 16:14-18                        

            9. 500 brethren  

                1 Corinthians 15:6                    

          10. James

                1 Corinthians 15:7                                       

          11. All apostles

                Acts 1:4-8                         

          12. Paul

                Acts 9:1-9, 1 Corinthians 15:8                                    

Jesus Christ is the Lamb of God - who was beaten and bruised for our transgressions, willingly giving up His life to conquer the grave for us!He then rose from the dead, because it was not possible that death could hold him.

Whom God hath raised up, having loosed the pains of death: because it was not possible that he should be holden of it.Acts 2:24(KJV)

Above:Tomb of Jesus

           

When sinners repent and believe the gospel, the eyes of their understanding are enlightened. They pass from darkness into light, from death to life.

Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that heareth my word, and believeth on him that sent me, hath everlasting life, and shall not come into condemnation; but is passed from death unto life.
John 5:24(KJV)

We then become a new creation in Christ with a brand new heart and new desires.

Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new.
2 Corinthians 5:17(KJV)

Above: Outside Tomb of Jesus

It is through the power of the gospel that the world will appreciate the miracle of the risen Christ who is the resurrection, also have assurance that God has appointed a day in which He will judge the world in righteousness.

So celebrate the resurrection by sharing the good news of the gospel with someone today.

With Blessing in Christ,

David & Gay

https://www.onewaytograce.com/

MODERN CHRISTIANITY

Perhaps one of the largest group of unsaved “religious” people in the world are those who sit in the pews of our churches. Those referred to as false converts are not what are often called “traditional Christians” (Christmas and Easter Christians”) or “nominal Christians.” Rather, these are people who profess to be born again, but have never found a place of biblical repentance. They don’t have “the things that accompany salvation.” There’s no fruit in there lives to say that they have been regenerated by the Holy Spirit. They sit among the Church but they are not part of the Church.

Background

Something certainly is tragically wrong, the contemporary Church has forsaken biblical evangelism. Modern Christianity has failed to use God’s Law (Ten Commandments) to bring the knowledge of sin, and has therefore filled the Church with false converts.

Therefore by the deeds of the law there shall no flesh be justified in his sight: for by the law is the knowledge of sin.

Romans 3:20 (KJV)

These false converts have named the name of Christ, but have never departed from iniquity (“lawlessness”-transgression of the Ten Commandments).

It is a neglect of the Law that has resulted in our churches being filled with tares among the wheat, foolish virgins among the wise, bad fish among the good, and goats among the sheep. This is why so many profess Christ and have no assurance of salvation. They have no assurance because they are not saved. This is why so many profess to have the love of God in their hearts, and at the same time couldn’t care less that the world is going to Hell. Every Christian should be horrified beyond words that any human being could be cast into Hell.

Who Is God

Idolatry is the fertile soil from which a false profession grows. The Scripture tell us that,

By mercy and truth iniquity is purged: and by the fear of the Lord men depart from evil.

Proverbs 16:6 (KJV)

So few fear God because so few pulpits preach the fear of God. Rarely do sinners hear That God is angry with the wicked every day, that if they are friends with this world they are enemies of God, and that His wrath abides on them. Every time they sin, they are storing up His wrath that will come upon them on the Day of Wrath.

Rather, they hear the unbiblical gospel of “God has a wonderful plan for your life” or simply that God wants them to prosper. Instead of being told to repent because they have offended a holy God, they are told that God will solve their problems.

Who Is Jesus

To the false convert, the Saviour is the One who died for his sins. He paid his fine. However, you will find that there is a shallow understanding of the sacrifice of the Father. This is because he has no knowledge of God’s Law.

Wherefore the law was our schoolmaster to bring us unto Christ, that we might be justified by faith.

Galatians 3:24 (KJV)

It’s only when he sees his terrible sin (that he is a terrible Law-breaker) and that he deserves consequent damnation that he will understand the unspeakable sacrifice that the Father made in Jesus of Nazareth. The Law makes grace abound. It makes Jesus precious to him.

Scriptures

A false convert may believe that the Scriptures are God’s Word, but he usually doesn’t see them as his life’s sustenance. He doesn’t desire the sincere milk of the Word that he may grow, because he hasn’t tasted of the goodness of the Lord. “This Book will keep you from sin, or sin will keep you from this Book.” Because he doesn’t soak himself in the Word, he is ignorant about subjects such as holiness of God, the Law of God and its functions and the reality of true and false conversion.

Heaven and Hell

A false convert usually lacks any depth of sound doctrine. He couldn’t explain the basics of how we are justified or sanctified. This is because, without the Law, God seems unjust to condemn sinners (most of whom he sees as reasonably good people) to eternity in Hell. More than likely he will believe that everyone goes to Heaven, except people like Adolf Hitler. Hell is a place for those he thinks are worthy of punishment.

Sin and Salvation

A false convert thinks lightly of sin. This is why he believes he can be a Christian and still have sin in his life. He is truly a “worker of iniquity”

And then will I profess unto them, I never knew you: depart from me, ye that work iniquity.

Matthew 7:23(KJV)

who sees nothing wrong  with fibs, not keeping his word, taking things that belong to other people, and giving himself to sexual lust. His reasoning is, “Who doesn’t do that?” and God understands. You may even hear blasphemy slip from his lips.

The false convert has often been through the motions of modern “conversion” (responded to an altar call, prayed a sinner’s prayer etc.) and has consequently been given assurance by the preacher that he is saved.

Conclusion:

Use the moral Law (like a mirror) to show him his true state before a holy God. However, once you have shown the seriousness of sin, explain that seeing sin in its true light has been what has been lacking in his life. This will help him understand why he has never truly repented. Why should he repent if his sin isn’t too bad? Ignorance of the Law has left him seeing himself as a basically good person. Without the light of the Law, he has never seen the character of a holy God, known the fear of God, or understand the sacrifice of the cross.

With Blessing in Christ,

David & Gay

https://onewaytograce.com/

THE DECEPTION OF ATHEISM

Atheism belief of "Who is God"?

All atheists disbelieve in all gods. Atheists believe no one has yet provided enough evidence to warrant a belief in god(s) or in the Christian context, God. There is no reason to believe that a supernatural intelligent Creator exists.

 

There are billions of reasons to believe in a supernatural intelligent Creator. From the order of DNA to every atom, to the amazingly designed tiny fleas, to the massive elephants, to the sun, moon, and its circuits, to the millions of stars and the entire universe, there is incredible order.

 

1. Christian belief of "Who is God"?

God is a Spirit. We can see the attributes of God through His creation. Since God is the Creator, we can see His work clearly. Creation shows us His power and order. It is impossible for anyone to look at creation and not see God's creative power. No one can plead ignorance of God. We can trace God from the world around us. We can see His power and majesty in creation.

 

For the invisible things of him from the creation of the world are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made, even his eternal power and Godhead; so that they are without excuse: Romans 1:20 KJV

 

 

Atheism belief of "Who is Jesus"?

"A relatively enlightened man for his times. Preached simple things such as brotherly love. Likely a real man. Some, like I, think his simple lessons were wrapped to control the gullible masses. (which still works)."

"The carpenter from Bethlehem existed, in all likelihood. He went around giving sermons, but he was not the son of God and he did not speak for God.”

 

Jesus gave the ultimate challenge to skeptics:

He that hath my commandments, and keepeth them, he it is that loveth me: and he that loveth me shall be loved of my Father, and I will love him, and will manifest Myself to him. John 14:21

 

To find out with 100 percent absolute certainty that Jesus is God in the flesh, atheists can simply obey His command to repent and believe the gospel, and He will reveal Himself to them. Then they will know God exist because they will know Him.

 

2. Christian belief of "Who is Jesus"?

The Bible tells us that Jesus is God, eternally pre-existent before the incarnation. He is “the image of invisible God". He created a body for Himself and became a man to suffer and die for the sins of the world.

 

Who is the image of the invisible God;

Colossians 1:15 KJV

 

And he is the propitiation for our sins: and not for ours only, but also for the sins of the whole world 1 John 2:2 KJV

 

Atheism belief in Heaven and Hell

"I don't believe God exists. I do not believe in the Bible as the literal inerrant word of God. Thus, heaven and hell are, in my opinion, much like God: a feel-good idea that swims in the minds of people, but has little bearing in reality. It's also a nifty way to control people through fear, but I digress. Personally, I think the idea of hell points to exceptional cruelty. An eternity of pain? That's pure evil. Heaven also sounds pretty boring. I'd rather reincarnate (but alas, I don't believe in that either)."

 

The question is often asked, "How could a loving God create Hell?" Think of how a civil judge, who turned a blind eye to murder, would be corrupt and should be brought to justice himself. If the Judge of the Universe is not going to bring murderers to ultimate justice, then He is corrupt. He would be wicked. In the 1990s in the US there were 200,000 murders. Statistics show that during those ten years half of those homicide crimes were unsolved. That means that 100,000 people got away with murder. When we use the Law to show that God is not only loving but that He is perfect, holy, just, and good, we end up saying, "How can there not be a Hell?"

 

 

3. Christian belief in Heaven and Hell

We will be free from all trouble and sorrow. All tears shall be wiped away and no remembrance of former sorrows shall remain. God Himself, as our Father, shall wipe away the tears of His children.

 

And God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes; and there shall be no more death, neither sorrow, nor crying, neither shall there be any more pain: for the former things are passed away Revelation 21:4 KJV

 

This will be the day when all shall be judged. The appearance of the Judge and that is the Lord Jesus Christ who puts on such majesty and judges righteously. Woe to the wicked, whosoever was not written in the book of life, for they shall perish in hell forever and ever.

 

And whosoever was not found written in the book of life was cast into the lake of fire Revelation 20:15 KJV

 

 

Atheism belief in Sin and Salvation

“I do not believe there is such a thing as sin, mainly because I do not believe that the Bible is anything other than a load of stories. If there is sin, then there must be moral absolutes, which do not exist because our stance on morality has changed over time.” "Seeing as I do not believe in an afterlife, the concept of salvation seems ridiculous and unnecessary to me.”

 

There’s a big problem when an atheist denies that sin (evil) exists. All you have to do is ask if murder is wrong, and if he says that it’s not, keep on asking if what Hitler did was wrong, or if paedophilia is wrong. You will soon find that he has a moral boundary regarding what is right and what is wrong. God’s moral standard is infinitely higher.

 

4. Christian belief of Sin and Salvation

We believe that sin is a transgression/violation against God's Holy Law (The Ten Commandments). An act of rebellion against Him.

 

Whosoever committeth sin transgresseth also the law: for sin is the transgression of the law 1John 3:4 KJV

 

God loves us so much that He sent His Son Jesus Christ to be born on earth and die on the cross to save us from our sins. There is nothing we can do to make us good enough for heaven. All we have to do is repent, believe, and trust in Jesus Christ alone as our Lord and Saviour.

 

For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life John3:16 KJV

 

 

Conclusion:

How can we know that God exists? We cannot see Him, hear Him, touch, taste, or smell Him. Common sense tells us that creation is absolute 100 percent scientific proof that there is a Creator. We cannot have creation without the Creator. We don’t need faith to believe in the Creator. All we need are eyes that can see and a brain that works.

So, just as I don’t need faith to believe in a builder because I have a building in front of me, so I don’t need faith to believe in a Creator, because I have creation in front of me. However, if I want the builder to do something for me, then I need to have faith in him.

The same is true with God:

 

But without faith it is impossible to please him: for he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him Hebrews 11:6 KJV

 

With Blessing in Christ,

David & Gay

https://onewaytograce.com

NEW YEAR RESOLUTIONS

Love and do God Almighty’s will

We are commanded to love and to do the will of God Almighty not only for a year but throughout our lives.

Jesus said unto him, Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind.

This is the first and great commandment.

And the second is like unto it, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself.

Matthew 22:37-39(KJV)

And he said unto them, Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature.

Mark 16:15(KJV)

Prayer

Prayer is important in the Christian life. It must line up with God Almighty’s will. It leads us in a closer intimate relationship to our Creator. We can pour our hearts out to God in prayer.

Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God.

Philippians 4:6(KJV)

Pray without ceasing.

1 Thessalonians 5:17(KJV)

Worship

We can acknowledge God Almighty through worship, giving Him reverent

honour.

O come, let us worship and bow down: let us kneel before the Lord our maker.

Psalm 95:6(KJV)

Let every thing that hath breath praise the Lord. Praise ye the Lord.

Psalm 150:6(KJV)

Bible reading everyday

It is very important to read the Holy Bible everyday. The only manual instruction for life and it will help us to grow spiritually.

All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness:

That the man of God may be perfect, thoroughly furnished unto all good works.

2 Timothy 3:16-17(KJV)

Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path.

Psalm 119:105(KJV)

Fasting

Helps you draw closer to God.

That thou appear not unto men to fast, but unto thy Father which is in secret: and thy Father, which seeth in secret, shall reward thee openly.

Matthew 6:18(KJV)

New Year’s resolutions have a chance to succeed depending on your commitment but most importantly include our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ in the resolution.

With Blessing in Christ,

David & Gay

https://www.onewaytograce.com/



WHAT IS THE CHRISTMAS STORY ALL ABOUT?

Photo taken from Peasedown St John Bypass All Glory to God!

It’s not all about shepherd’s, it’s not all about manger scenes as we will call them. It’s all about God’s love. For you to celebrate Christmas honestly, you’ve got to deal with Jesus. That’s what this is all about!

For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.

John 3:16(KJV)

You can buy all the presents you want to buy, give to all the people you want to buy for. The question is “Did you really celebrate Christmas or did you celebrate a holiday?” It is any wonder the world wants to call it a holiday? We’ll tell you why? Because deep down inside they know it has nothing to do with Jesus on their part. It has to do with money, materialism, food, pleasure, parties, commercialised festival and paganism.

Christmas is all about God coming to earth in the person of His Son Jesus Christ, living among men, dying on a cross, rising from the grave, ascended to the Father, seated at His right hand to hear the cries and pleas of His people and the sinners asking for forgiveness of their sin. That’s what this is all about!

For I delivered unto you first of all that which I also received, how that Christ died for our sins according to the scriptures; And that he was buried, and that he rose again the third day according to the scriptures:

1 Corinthians 15:3-4(KJV)

When you read or hear the Bible story next time, remember a lot of things where behind the scenes but significantly in the eyes of God. If you are one of those persons you would have to say today “Well you know I’ve never trusted Jesus, I have read or heard the story a few times, my mother and father they’ve read it or heard it too, but I didn’t really think it had very much significance for me”.

Let us tell you how significant it really is, if you ignore it you will die and be eternally separated from God Almighty period! No more hope, No second chance, eternally separated from God. That’s how significant it is. It’s not a holiday, It is a moment of time when you have the privilege of asking Christ into your life. That’s what we pray you will do. You say “What do I say?” You just say something like this to Him….... God, I’m a sinner, I’ve blown it bad Lord, but I believe what I just read and I’m asking you to forgive me of my sins. I don’t deserve it, there’s nothing I know I can do. I’m asking you to forgive me because you promised that, and at this moment I believe and receive Jesus Christ as my personal Saviour to follow Him from this day forward. If you tell Him that, God will forgive you. No matter what you have done, where you have been, where you are now. He will transform your life and take you to heaven.

     For whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved.

                                                     Romans 10:13 (KJV)

For all of us who are believers we would ask again, how could you ever keep this message to yourself?

When you have a relationship with Jesus, you can have access to God and enjoy all the benefits of His promises.

With Blessing in Christ,

David & Gay

https://www.onewaytograce.com/