LLM Question for 3-9-2012, and, The Apostle Peter and the Keys of the Kingdom of Heaven, part 1 of 3

First the Question: The joint Body of Christ, was a Mystery UNTIL the revelation was sent down from Heaven by the RISEN Christ to and through the Apostle to the Gentiles, Paul. True or False?

Take a moment to respond at the LLM Question of the Day

And now the answer to the LLM Question of 3-6-2012

Question: Simon, (the Apostle Peter), was introduced to Jesus by Philip. True or False?

Answer: FALSE! Simon (Peter) was introduced to Jesus by his brother Andrew. John 1:41-42, “And he (Andrew) brought him (Simon) to Jesus.” That was a full day’s work for Andrew. And, it was more than that for Simon. So, out of the 771 responses we received to this question, only 64.3% of you got it right! WHY, only 64.3%? Therefore, NOW, let us take a look at,

The Apostle Peter and the KEYS of the Kingdom of Heaven, part 1 of 3

Doubtless you have heard of the Apostle Peter; but you must not believe all that you have heard about him. He is not here to defend himself against all these false reports, so it seems unfair to take advantage of him during his absence. He is still living and he is coming back to earth some day. Now this is not a false report. This is the truth.

It is safe to estimate that 450 million people have heard something about Simon Peter during the last 100 years, and far more than one billion people have heard of him since that day about 2000 years ago when Andrew introduced him to Messiah the Christ. The story of his life is today printed in more than 900 languages.

Peter has been accused of being the first pope of Rome. He has been written up as the Fisherman Philosopher. By millions bearing the name of Christ he has been worshipped as a great saint who stands guard at the door of Heaven. Millions of jokes have been told by the ungodly concerning those who have gone up to Saint Peter for reward in Heaven or judgment in hell. To many of these he is in the class with Santa Claus. To the superstitious, religious multitudes it is very difficult to make the true Simon Peter known; for they do not want him stripped of his mythical ecclesiastical priestly garments. They will take no chance of losing their Rome-ish fiction and superstition, which are so precious to them. They will not even read what Simon Peter writes about himself in their own Bible.

For anyone who really desires to rid the story of Simon Peter of falsehood and fiction, there is first hand information, and it will do your soul good to get acquainted with this intensely human character; not a myth, but a natural man, just like the rest of us, who came in contact with the Supernatural Power that transformed his life.

You will not read the story of an intellectual star. Simon was not a leading scholar of his day. He was not a politician of influence. He was not an outstanding business man. He was in no way classed with the wise, mighty, noble, or rich. On the contrary; he was just a plain ordinary, unlettered man of his day. By nature he may have been a bit unusual in some respects, but yet he was not what the world would call a strong character. He might have been described as a vacillating, impetuous blunderer, with plenty of zeal and self-confidence. There was in him the mixture of courage and fear. As already stated, he was intensely human; but withal an interesting personality.

As an old man, Peter, in writing of God, mentioned Him as the “God of all Grace.” 1 Peter 5:10. He needed just such a God. As do we! The Apostle Peter had not forgotten that moment when, recognizing that God of all Grace in human form, he had cried out, “Depart from me; for I am a sinful man.” But instead of complying with Simon’s demand, that Savior said, “Come unto me and I will give you rest.”

This sinful man did become the Apostle Peter, Saint Peter; for every sinner who obeys this gracious call immediately becomes a Saint. But when Peter wrote his last word, he called himself Simon Peter and addressed his epistle, “to them that have obtained like precious faith”. 2 Peter 1:1.

So let's begin by gathering a few facts from the Bible concerning Simon, who was surnamed Peter. Acts 10:5.

We have already learned that Simon was introduced to Jesus by his brother Andrew. John 1:41-42. “And he brought him to Jesus.” That was a full day’s work for Andrew. And, it was more than that for Simon.

In addition to the Scriptures we have quoted above, quite often we find this expression; “Peter said”...Sometimes Peter said some very wise things. At other times it seems it was difficult for him to obey James 1:19, “Wherefore my beloved brethren, let every man be swift to hear, slow to speak.” But when we read his epistles we receive messages from a gentle, loving, servant of the Lord Jesus Christ, faithful unto death. “Yea, I think it meet, as long as I am in this tabernacle, to stir you up by putting you in remembrance; knowing that shortly I must put off this my tabernacle, even as our Lord Jesus Christ hath showed me.” 2 Peter 1:13-14.

As we read in Acts 3 and Acts 4, we learn that Peter and John remained partners...fishing together...for the Lord. They were pillars of the church at Jerusalem. Galatians 2:9. Peter and John were Galilean Jews, who had the unique experience of living in TWO DIFFERENT Dispensations. They lived under the Old Testament, or “Law” Age: and then under the New Testament Dispensation of Grace, as well as during those several years of transition during the earthly ministry of Jesus of Nazareth and after, whom Peter declared was a man, approved of God, in the midst of Israel. Acts 2:22-23.

Some years after Simon Peter had seen the Lord Jesus ascend through the clouds, he made this confession, “Ye know how that it is an unlawful thing for a man that is a Jew to keep company, or come unto one of another nation.” Acts 10:28. And at a later date, the Apostle Paul said to the Apostle Peter, “If thou being a Jew.” Galatians 2:14.

So Simon Bar-jona son of Jonas was a Jew. He was brought to Jesus by his brother Andrew, John 1:41. Andrew introduced Jesus as Israel’s long looked for Messiah. This Messiah was to bring national redemption to Israel, and take the throne of David as King of the Jews. But instead, He was put to death on a cross and went back to Heaven in a glorified body.

***

In Ephesians 1:13 the Holy Spirit through the Apostle Paul declares that men are saved and sealed by hearing and BELIEVING the Word of Truth, the Gospel of your Salvation. Therefore, here, now, is declared unto you the Word of Truth, the Gospel of your Salvation: "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. BELIEVE today. The time is short.

So There You Have it!

Spread this message to everyone you know, far and wide.

Grace be to you and peace, from God: our Father, and The LORD Jesus Christ.

In The LORD Jesus Christ,
The Lion and Lamb Ministry

Pastor David Picos, D.D.
Minister and Ambassador for Christ in the Ministry of Reconciliation (2 Cor. 5:18-20)

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LLM Question for 3-6-2012, and, THE DISPENSATION OF GRACE: Beginning and Ending, part 3 of 3

First the Question: Simon, (the Apostle Peter), was introduced to Jesus by Philip. True or False?

Take a moment to respond at the LLM Question of the Day

And now the answer to the LLM Question of 3-4-2012

Question: The LORD committed the Dispensation of the Grace of God to Peter for Gentiles when He gave him the kingdom keys. True or False?

Answer: Absolutely FALSE! The LORD never committed the Dispensation of the Grace of God to Peter for Gentiles when He gave him the kingdom keys, nor when He gave the Eleven the so-called “Great Commission." Nor at any other time. Read and take note, in Colossians 1:23, who had the responsibility for preaching the Gospel to every creature under heaven! So far as we are concerned, in 2 Cor. 5:18-20 and Ephesians 3:1-11, we find a Commission far greater for us, today, than Matthew 28:19-20 or Mark 16:14-18. Now, out of the 711 responses we received to this question, only 73.9% of you got it right! Therefore, NOW, let us take a look at,

THE DISPENSATION OF GRACE: It's Beginning and Ending, part 3 of 3

What a great difference between “the Gospel of the circumcision” and “the Dispensation of the Mystery”!

In order that we might recognize this great difference, we must keep in mind that “the Gospel of the circumcision” was given to Peter AFTER the resurrection of Christ. All of the message of Peter on the day of Pentecost to devout Jews from every nation under heaven, was in fulfillment of Joel’s prophecy and David’s prophecy. He preached in the third chapter of Acts concerning days prophesied by all of Israel’s prophets. Acts 3:24.

All of this is SO VERY different from THE DISPENSATION OF THE MYSTERY concerning the Gentiles, about which all of Israel’s prophets were both silent and ignorant. Why did the LORD instruct Peter to continue with the Gospel of the circumcision on and after the day of Pentecost? Because, He had not yet cast away (temporarily) His circumcised nation Israel!

After Saul’s name was changed to “Paul”, the RISEN Christ committed unto him the Ministry of Reconciliation. 2 Cor. 5:18-20. This was after Israel was set aside. Romans 11:15, “For if the casting away of them be the reconciling of the world, what shall the receiving of them be, but life from the dead?”

As long as the Gospel of the circumcision was proclaimed, the LORD’s messengers went back to the Abrahamic Covenant and the Covenant of Circumcision. Acts 7:8. When Israel was set aside and the LORD committed to Paul the dispensation of the Grace of God and the Ministry of Reconciliation, then for the first time reference is made to Adam. Note Romans 5:11-12, “And not only so, but we also joy in God through our LORD Jesus Christ, by whom we have now received the reconciliation (atonement) Wherefore as by one man sin entered into the world, and death by sin; and so death passed upon all men, for that all have sinned.” Romans 5:11-12.

The LORD never committed the Dispensation of the Grace of God to Peter for Gentiles when He gave him the kingdom keys, nor when He gave the Eleven the so-called “great commission.” Nor at any other time. Note in Colossians 1:23 who had the responsibility for preaching the Gospel to every creature under heaven? So far as we are concerned, in 2 Cor. 5:18-20 and Ephesians 3:1-11, we find a commission far greater for us than Matthew 28:19-20 or Mark 16:14-18.

The Gospel of the Kingdom, which is NOT the Gospel of the Grace of God (Acts 20:24), will be proclaimed AFTER the present economy of the Grace of God has been brought to an end. This Dispensation of Grace will end. After that “the times of the Gentiles” will be fulfilled.

The Dispensation of the Grace of God did NOT begin on the Day of Pentecost, or with the salvation of Cornelius, or with anything that the Twelve preached or did. It began with the casting away of Israel (temporarily), when that nation committed the unpardonable sin.

The beginning of the end of national Israel was Stephen’s message in Jerusalem and the Apostle Paul’s message in Acts 13:46, “Then Paul and Barnabas waxed bold, and said, It was necessary that the Word of God should first have been spoken to you: but seeing you put it from you, and judge yourselves unworthy of everlasting life, lo, we turn to ‘the Gentiles.’” And Acts 18:6, “And when they opposed themselves, and blasphemed, he shook his raiment and said unto them, Your blood be upon your own heads: I am clean: from henceforth I will go unto the Gentiles.”

Then came the END of Religion (and everything that goes with it), the END of Circumcision, the proclamation of the Gospel of the un-circumcision, the beginning of the times of the Gentiles spiritually, the Dispensation of the Grace of God for Gentiles. Then followed the revelation of “the dispensation of the Mystery.” Note Ephesians 3:9, “And to make all men see what is the dispensation (fellowship) of the Mystery, which from the beginning of the world hath been hid in God, Who created all things by Jesus Christ.”

What are YOU, Christian, doing about Ephesians 3:9?

Look at the glorious Divine Truth in Ephesians 1:23 and Ephesians 4:13, “WHICH IS HIS BODY, THE FULNESS OF HIM THAT FILLETH ALL IN ALL.” “TILL WE ALL COME IN THE UNITY OF THE FAITH, AND OF THE KNOWLEDGE OF THE SON OF GOD, UNTO A PERFECT MAN, UNTO THE MEASURE OF THE STATURE OF THE FULNESS OF CHRIST.”

We would emphasize the word “FULLNESS.” The Body of Christ is the fullness of Christ. Here we have the very HEART of the Mystery.

***

In Ephesians 1:13 the Holy Spirit through the Apostle Paul declares that men are saved and sealed by hearing and BELIEVING the Word of Truth, the Gospel of your Salvation. Therefore, here, now, is declared unto you the Word of Truth, the Gospel of your Salvation: "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. BELIEVE today. The time is short.

So There You Have it!

Spread this message to everyone you know, far and wide.

Grace be to you and peace, from God: our Father, and The LORD Jesus Christ.

In The LORD Jesus Christ,
The Lion and Lamb Ministry

Pastor David Picos, D.D.
Minister and Ambassador for Christ in the Ministry of Reconciliation (2 Cor. 5:18-20)

Subscribe Here to the LLM Newsletter , Follow LLM on Twitter , Subscribe to LLM on Youtube , LLM on MySpace , and FaceBook

LLM Question for 3-4-2012, and, THE DISPENSATION OF GRACE: Beginning and Ending, part 2 of 3

First the Question: The LORD committed the Dispensation of the Grace of God to Peter for Gentiles when He gave him the kingdom keys. True or False?

Take a moment to respond at the LLM Question of the Day

And now the answer to the LLM Question of 3-2-2012

Question: After Acts 13:2, the mention of ANY of the 12 Apostles in the Book of Acts is ONLY when they had dealings with the Apostle Paul. True or False?

Answer: TRUE! Note The Commission of Acts 13:2, “As they ministered to the LORD and fasted, the Holy Ghost said, Separate me Barnabas and Saul for the work whereunto I have called them” After that, the only mention of any of the twelve Apostles in the Book of Acts is when they had dealings with the Apostle Paul. Paul is the chief human actor in the last sixteen chapters of Acts. Now, out of the 768 responses we received to this question, 77.3% of you got it right! Therefore, NOW, let us take a look at,

THE DISPENSATION OF GRACE: It's Beginning and Ending, part 2 of 3

Let's read the following verses:

1. “AND ALL THINGS ARE OF GOD. WHO HATH RECONCILED US TO HIMSELF BY JESUS CHRIST, AND HATH GIVEN TO US THE MINISTRY OF RECONCILIATION” 2 Cor. 5:18.

2. “THAT I SHOULD BE THE MINISTER OF JESUS CHRIST TO THE GENTILES, MINISTERING THE GOSPEL OF GOD THAT THE OFFERING UP OF THE GENTILES MIGHT BE ACCEPTABLE, BEING SANCTIFIED BY THE HOLY GHOST.” Romans 15:16.

3. “AND IT CAME TO PASS THAT WHEN I WAS COME AGAIN TO JERUSALEM, EVEN WHEN I PRAYED IN THE TEMPLE, I WAS IN A TRANCE.” “AND HE SAID UNTO ME, DEPART; FOR I WILL SEND THEE FAR HENCE UNTO THE GENTILES.” Acts 22:17-21.

4. “FOR I SPEAK TO YOU GENTILES INASMUCH AS I AM THE APOSTLE OF THE GENTILES, I MAGNIFY MINE OFFICE” Romans 11:13.

5. “WHO GAVE HIMSELF A RANSOM FOR ALL. TO BE TESTIFIED IN DUE TIME. WHEREUNTO I AM ORDAINED A PREACHER, AND AN APOSTLE, (I SPEAK THE TRUTH IN CHRIST AND LIE NOT), A TEACHER OF THE GENTILES IN FAITH AND VERITY” 1 Timothy 2:6-7.

6. “. . . THE GOSPEL WHICH YE HAVE HEARD, AND WHICH WAS (PREACHED TO EVERY CREATURE WHICH IS UNDER HEAVEN WHEREOF I PAUL AM MADE A MINISTER.” Colossians 1:23.

7. “FOR THIS CAUSE I PAUL, THE PRISONER OF JESUS CHRIST FOR YOU GENTILES, IF YE HAVE HEARD OF THE DISPENSATION OF THE GRACE OF GOD WHICH IS GIVEN ME TO YOU‑WARD; HOW THAT BY REVELATION HE MADE KNOWN UNTO ME THE MYSTERY; (AS I WROTE AFORE IN FEW WORDS).” Ephesians 3:1-3.

The keys of the kingdom of heaven were given to the Apostle Peter with whom eleven other men were associated. In Acts 2:14 we are told that eleven other men stood up with Peter. Why twelve men? Only eleven were present when the so-called “great commission” was given. Matthew 28:16. But the number had to be increased to twelve before the keys of the kingdom could be used. Therefore, Matthias took the place of Judas. Acts 1:26. Twelve Apostles for Israel for the twelve tribes of Israel. The twelve men were to go over the cities of Israel, Matthew 10:23. The Twelve remained at Jerusalem. Acts 8:1. They agreed to go to the circumcision. Galatians 2:9.

It is believed that Peter used a key to let Cornelius and his household into the kingdom of heaven. At that time there were still twelve Apostles in the original group. After that the number was reduced to eleven, for James was killed. Acts 12:1-2. Then the record of the spiritual activities of the twelve in the Book of Acts ceased.

But let’s never forget that The Twelve have a future ministry with the twelve tribes, “And Jesus said unto them, Verily I say unto you, That you which have followed me in the regeneration when the Son of man shall sit in the throne of His glory, ye also shall sit upon twelve thrones, judging the twelve tribes of Israel” Matthew 19:28.

But now again Romans 11:13, “For I speak to you Gentiles, inasmuch AS I AM THE APOSTLE TO THE GENTILES, I magnify mine office”

Note The Commission of Acts 13:2, “As they ministered to the LORD and fasted, the Holy Ghost said, Separate me Barnabas and Saul for the work whereunto I have called them” After that, the only mention of any of the twelve Apostles in the Book of Acts is when they had dealings with the Apostle Paul. Paul is the chief human actor in the last sixteen chapters of Acts. The Holy Spirit through Paul wrote thirteen Epistles which have been called Gentile Epistles. In these thirteen Epistles, and in the Book of Acts, Paul used the first person pronoun more than one thousand times.

Note what he wrote in 1 Corinthians 3:10, “According to the Grace of God which is given unto me, as a wise masterbuilder, I have laid the foundation, and another buildeth thereupon. But let every man take heed how he buildeth thereupon.”

1 Timothy 2:16, “Howbeit for this cause I obtained mercy, that in me first Jesus Christ might shew forth all long-suffering, for a pattern to them which should hereafter believe on Him to life everlasting’

Colossians 1:24-25, “Who now rejoice in my sufferings for you, and fill up that which is behind of the afflictions of Christ in my flesh for His Body’s sake, which is the Church, Whereof I am made a minister...”

Now read carefully what the Holy Spirit says through the Apostle Paul, 1 Corinthians 11:1, “Be ye followers of me even as I also am of Christ”

If the Child of God cannot see the difference between the Gospel of the circumcision committed to Peter, and the Gospel of the un-circumcision committed unto Paul, certainly they cannot know the difference between “the keys of the kingdom of heaven” committed unto Peter, and “the dispensation of the Grace of God,” committed unto Paul. What a great difference between “the Gospel of the circumcision” and “the dispensation of the Mystery”!

In order that we might recognize this great difference, we must keep in mind that “the Gospel of the circumcision” was given to Peter AFTER the resurrection of Christ. All of the message of Peter on the day of Pentecost to devout Jews from every nation under heaven, was in fulfillment of Joel’s prophecy and David’s prophecy. He preached in the third chapter of Acts concerning days prophesied by all of Israel’s prophets. Acts 3:24.

All of this is SO VERY different from THE DISPENSATION OF THE MYSTERY concerning the Gentiles, about which all of Israel’s prophets were both silent and ignorant. Why did the LORD instruct Peter to continue with the Gospel of the circumcision on and after the day of Pentecost? Because, He had not yet cast away (temporarily) His CIRCUMCISED Nation Israel!

***

In Ephesians 1:13 the Holy Spirit through the Apostle Paul declares that men are saved and sealed by hearing and BELIEVING the Word of Truth, the Gospel of your Salvation. Therefore, here, now, is declared unto you the Word of Truth, the Gospel of your Salvation: "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. BELIEVE today. The time is short.

So There You Have it!

Spread this message to everyone you know, far and wide.

Grace be to you and peace, from God: our Father, and The LORD Jesus Christ.

In The LORD Jesus Christ,
The Lion and Lamb Ministry

Pastor David Picos, D.D.
Minister and Ambassador for Christ in the Ministry of Reconciliation (2 Cor. 5:18-20)

Subscribe Here to the LLM Newsletter , Follow LLM on Twitter , Subscribe to LLM on Youtube , LLM on MySpace , and FaceBook

LLM Question for 3-2-2012, and, THE DISPENSATION OF GRACE: Beginning and Ending, part 1 of 3

First the Question: After Acts 13:2, the mention of ANY of the 12 Apostles in the Book of Acts is ONLY when they had dealings with the Apostle Paul. True or False?

Take a moment to respond at the LLM Question of the Day

And now the answer to the LLM Question of 2-27-2012

Question: The RISEN LORD Jesus Christ had revealed to the Apostle Paul a distinct message for and concerning Gentile salvation, a message quite different from the Gentile salvation foretold in the Scriptures of Israel. True or False?

Answer: TRUE! The LORD Jesus Christ had revealed to the Apostle Paul a distinct message for and concerning the Gentiles, a message quite different from the Gentile salvation foretold in Israel’s Scriptures and quite different from the Apostle Peter’s message to Cornelius, the Gentile. Hence, “THE MYSTERY.” A part of this Mystery is told in Ephesians 3:6, “That the Gentiles should be Joint‑Heirs, and of the Joint-Body, and joint‑sharers of His promise in Christ by the Gospel.” Now, out of the 731 responses we received to this question, 92.6% of you got it right! Fantastic! Therefore, NOW, let us take a look at our NEW Message series,

THE DISPENSATION OF GRACE: It's Beginning and Ending, part 1 of 3

In 1 Corinthians 9:17, the Apostle Paul says, “a dispensation is committed unto me” So, what exactly is a dispensation?

The Greek word is our word “economy”. Note the use of the word in Paul’s Epistle to the Colossians, “Whereof I am made a minister, according to the dispensation of God which is given to me for you, to fulfill the Word of God; Even the mystery which hath been hid from ages and from generations, but now is made manifest to His saints: To whom God would make known what is the riches of the glory of this mystery among the Gentiles; which is Christ in you the hope of glory.” Colossians 1:25-27.

Here we note a very specific dispensation and duty committed to the Apostle Paul for both Jews and Gentiles together. He had to fulfill, or complete, the Word of God with Divine Truth called “the Mystery.” It was called “The Mystery” or “the secret” because it was the LORD’s secret, NEVER made known to Israel’s prophets or to any other of the LORD’s servants until the RISEN Christ revealed it to the Apostle Paul.

The word translated “fellowship,” in Ephesians 3:9, is the same word “economy” or “dispensation.” Note Ephesians 3:8-9, “Unto me who am less than the least of all saints, is this Grace given, that I should preach among the Gentiles the UNSEARCHABLE riches of Christ; and to make all men see what is the DISPENSATION of the mystery, which from the beginning of the world hath been hid in God, who created all things by Jesus Christ.” Here we read of “THE ECONOMY OF THE MYSTERY,” God’s secret and the UNSEARCHABLE riches of Christ for Gentiles. The word “UNSEARCHABLE” is “NOT‑TO‑BE-TRACKED” or “UNTRACEABLE,” meaning, “UNPROPHESIED”

The LORD Jesus Christ had revealed to the Apostle Paul a distinct message for and concerning the Gentiles, a message quite different from the Gentile salvation foretold in Israel’s Scriptures and quite different from the Apostle Peter’s message to Cornelius, the Gentile. Hence, “THE MYSTERY.” A part of this mystery is told in Ephesians 3:6: “That the Gentiles should be joint‑heirs and of the Joint-Body, and joint‑sharers of His promise in Christ by the Gospel.”

The Apostle Peter acknowledged that the Apostle Paul’s message included truth that was hard for all men to understand, “And account that the long suffering of our LORD is salvation: even as our beloved brother Paul also according to the wisdom given unto him, hath written unto you: As also in all his Epistles, speaking in them of these things; in which are some things hard to be understood, which they that are unlearned and unstable wrest, as they do also the other Scriptures, unto their own destruction.”

To Peter and his associates the LORD Jesus committed a Gospel message and a spiritual program:

1. “And I will give unto thee the keys of the kingdom of heaven and whatsoever thou shalt bind on earth shall be bound in heaven: and whatsoever thou shalt loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven.” Matthew 16:19.

2. “Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost. Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world. Amen.” Matthew 28:19-20.

3. “But ye shall receive power after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you: and ye shall be witnesses unto Me both in Jerusalem, and in all Judea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth.” Acts 1:8.

4. “But contrariwise, when they saw that the Gospel of the uncircumcision was committed unto me, as the Gospel of the circumcision was unto Peter: (For He that wrought effectually in Peter to the Apostleship of the circumcision, the same was mighty in one toward the Gentiles.)” Galatians 2:7-8.

5. “Arise therefore, and get thee down, and go with them, doubting nothing: for I have sent them.” “…Now therefore are we all here present before God to hear all things that are commanded thee of God.” Acts 10:20 and Acts 10:33.

6. “And when James, Peter and John, who seemed to be pillars, perceived the Grace that was given unto me, they gave to me and Barnabas the right hands of fellowship; that we should go unto the heathen and they unto the circumcision.” Galatians 2:9.

By way of comparison, study these following verses which we have quoted:

1. “AND ALL THINGS ARE OF GOD. WHO HATH RECONCILED US TO HIMSELF BY JESUS CHRIST, AND HATH GIVEN TO US THE MINISTRY OF RECONCILIATION” 2 Cor. 5:18.

2. “THAT I SHOULD BE THE MINISTER OF JESUS CHRIST TO THE GENTILES, MINISTERING THE GOSPEL OF GOD THAT THE OFFERING UP OF THE GENTILES MIGHT BE ACCEPTABLE, BEING SANCTIFIED BY THE HOLY GHOST.” Romans 15:16.

3. “AND IT CAME TO PASS THAT WHEN I WAS COME AGAIN TO JERUSALEM, EVEN WHEN I PRAYED IN THE TEMPLE, I WAS IN A TRANCE.” “AND HE SAID UNTO ME, DEPART; FOR I WILL SEND THEE FAR HENCE UNTO THE GENTILES.” Acts 22:17-21.

4. “FOR I SPEAK TO YOU GENTILES INASMUCH AS I AM THE APOSTLE OF THE GENTILES, I MAGNIFY MINE OFFICE” Romans 11:13.

5. “WHO GAVE HIMSELF A RANSOM FOR ALL. TO BE TESTIFIED IN DUE TIME. WHEREUNTO I AM ORDAINED A PREACHER, AND AN APOSTLE, (I SPEAK THE TRUTH IN CHRIST AND LIE NOT), A TEACHER OF THE GENTILES IN FAITH AND VERITY” 1 Timothy 2:6-7.

6. “...THE GOSPEL WHICH YE HAVE HEARD, AND WHICH WAS (PREACHED TO EVERY CREATURE WHICH IS UNDER HEAVEN WHEREOF I PAUL AM MADE A MINISTER.” Colossians 1:23.

7. “FOR THIS CAUSE I PAUL, THE PRISONER OF JESUS CHRIST FOR YOU GENTILES, IF YE HAVE HEARD OF THE DISPENSATION OF THE GRACE OF GOD WHICH IS GIVEN ME TO YOU‑WARD; HOW THAT BY REVELATION HE MADE KNOWN UNTO ME THE MYSTERY; (AS I WROTE AFORE IN FEW WORDS).” Ephesians 3:1-3.

***

In Ephesians 1:13 the Holy Spirit through the Apostle Paul declares that men are saved and sealed by hearing and BELIEVING the Word of Truth, the Gospel of your Salvation. Therefore, here, now, is declared unto you the Word of Truth, the Gospel of your Salvation: "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. BELIEVE today. The time is short.

So There You Have it!

Spread this message to everyone you know, far and wide.

Grace be to you and peace, from God: our Father, and The LORD Jesus Christ.

In The LORD Jesus Christ,
The Lion and Lamb Ministry

Pastor David Picos, D.D.
Minister and Ambassador for Christ in the Ministry of Reconciliation (2 Cor. 5:18-20)

Subscribe Here to the LLM Newsletter , Follow LLM on Twitter , Subscribe to LLM on Youtube , LLM on MySpace , and FaceBook

The Lion and Lamb Ministry Video Series on The Book of Revelation

The Lion and Lamb Ministry Video Series on The Book of Revelation

Here, below, is Section 1, Section 2, Section 3, and Section 4

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The Churches, Section 1 of The Book of Revelation Video series

This is an examination of the "churches" of Revelation 2 and Revelation 3, and that in fact they are NOT the Body of Christ. But future assemblies of Jewish believers that will be HERE after The Harpazo, after the Church has been caught up to meet The LORD in the air. The letters to these assemblies, when read carefully, differ immensely from the Pauline epistles. The Revelation Epistles are addressed to servants and speak of works and judgment, while the Pauline Epistles are addressed to SONS and Daughters and speak of our standing IN Christ, as His Body, by GRACE. And it was to PAUL, not the 12 Apostles that the Mystery was shown and explained.

Therefore, The Ecclesia, The Church, is the BODY of Christ, and cannot be Israel, or the Wife, or The Bride. For we are part of the BrideGROOM. We are IN Christ. This is the MYSTERY that was withheld, and hid IN God, from ALL of the prophets, and revealed to Paul. We are even NOW forever connected to the GROOM, IN Christ and He in us.

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The Scroll with 7 Seals, Section 2 of The Book of Revelation Video series

The Seals, which we find in The Book of Revelation 5:1-8:6, we believe, based on the events resulting from the breaking of the sixth, Revelation 6:12, are a summary of ALL the Divine judgments which will usher in the Day of the LORD: including the whole of "The Tribulation," and leading up to the End — the last "seven years," and "the great day of His wrath." Therefore, they cover the whole period in broad outline.

Now this is very important. There is every reason to believe that "the Day of the LORD" will be a prolonged period. It must not be limited or confined to "seven years," as everyone thinks. As we went over EXTENSIVELY in our series: Section 1: the Churches. The time between the coming forth of the LORD to Snatch-up (Harpazo), and meet His Church IN THE AIR, and His coming unto the Earth WITH His Church, in power and great glory, we believe, could very well correspond to the thirty-three years between His coming forth at Bethlehem, as we read in Micah 5:2, and His coming unto Jerusalem as we read in Zechariah 9:9 . All the events between Micah 5:2 and Zechariah 9:9 we speak of as constituting His "first coming." In like manner, all the events described in The Book of Revelation, which take place between His coming "for" and His coming "with" His Church, we also can speak of as "His second coming" or "the Day of the LORD."

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7 Trumpets, 3 Woes, and 7 Vials, Section 3 of The Book of Revelation Video series

What I want you all to see is that the whole of this great judgment period, covered by the Trumpets and Vials, is given in two pairs of alternate Visions of events "in Heaven" and "on Earth." First we have the 2nd Vision "in Heaven" (Revelation 8:1-6) consisting of the Opening of the Seventh Seal. Then we have the 2nd Vision "on Earth" (Revelation 8:7-11:14) which shows the effects of this opening, which the scripture goes on to tell us are the first Six Trumpets.

Next we have the 3rd Vision "in Heaven" (Revelation 11:15-19) consisting of the Sounding of the Seventh Trumpet. Then the 3rd Vision "on Earth" (Revelation 11:19) consisting of the effects of this sounding.

Now follow me on this...we are then, in Revelation 12, taken back to a time prior to Revelation 4. At this point the sequence of the Trumpet and Vial judgments is broken in order to insert this parenthetical break, and give us the additional information. The Trumpet and Vial judgments are continuous once they begin. It is only the description of them which is interrupted, in order to allow the necessary information to be given which shows the necessity for them. This digression begins at Revelation 12:1 and is carried on to Revelation 15:8.

Then the description of the Vial Judgments is taken up and continued, giving the results "on Earth" of the sounding of the Seventh Trumpet. These Vial Judgments are then continuous from Revelation 16:1 through Revelation 18:24, which ends their mission, accomplishes their object, and issues in the Revelation of the LORD Jesus Christ, from Heaven in power and great Glory as we then see in Revelation 19.

We pray that this coming series will edify and richly bless you, as you grow in the Grace and Knowledge of our LORD and Savior Jesus Christ.

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The Great Conflict: The Woman and The Dragon, Section 4 of The Book of Revelation Video series

In "The Great Conflict: The Woman and The Dragon", Section 4 of The Book of Revelation Video Series, we come, not only to the great central subject of the whole Book of Revelation, but to the central pair of the Seven Visions, and to the actual literary center of the whole Book.

This shows us that we are on the threshold of a very important part of Scripture which relates to the actual Revelation or Unveiling of the glorious Person of the Lord Jesus Christ.

The whole section of Scripture that we cover in Section 4, Revelation 12-15, is not only episodal in subject and parenthetical in form, but is a good example of historical, or, rather, prophetic hysterologia (a form of hyperbaton by which the events, though written down later, took place earlier than those which immediately precede in historical narration). That is to say, that what we have in Revelation 12-15 is a prophetic record of events which will take place before Revelation 6, and will lead up to, and run parallel with, what is recorded in Revelation 6 onward.

We pray that this series will edify and richly bless you, as you grow in the Grace and Knowledge of our Great God, LORD, and Savior Jesus Christ.

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In Ephesians 1:13 the Holy Spirit through the Apostle Paul declares that men are saved and sealed by hearing and BELIEVING the Word of Truth, the Gospel of your Salvation. Therefore, here, now, is declared unto you the Word of Truth, the Gospel of your Salvation: "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. BELIEVE today. The time is short.

So There You Have it!

Spread these video messages to everyone you know, far and wide.

Grace be to you and peace, from God: our Father, and The LORD Jesus Christ.

In The LORD Jesus Christ,
The Lion and Lamb Ministry

Pastor David Picos, D.D.
Minister and Ambassador for Christ in the Ministry of Reconciliation (2 Cor. 5:18-20)

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LLM Question for 2-27-2012, and, WHAT IS THE MYSTERY OF THE GOSPEL, part 3 of 3

First the Question: The RISEN LORD Jesus Christ had revealed to the Apostle Paul a distinct message for and concerning Gentile salvation, a message quite different from the Gentile salvation foretold in the Scriptures of Israel. True or False?

Take a moment to respond at the LLM Question of the Day

And now the answer to the LLM Question of 2-25-2012

Question: In the Bible, Christians are instructed to establish denominations and sectarian churches. True or False?

Answer: Absolutely FALSE! Every member of the Body of Christ should see, and then help others, to see what is the Dispensation of the Mystery and endeavor to keep the unity mentioned in Ephesians 4:1-7. Christians are NOT instructed to establish that unity or to establish any sectarian church, to COMPETE with the Church of the LORD in this Dispensation of Grace, the Body of Christ! Now, out of the 763 responses we received to this question, 93.5% of you got it right! Terrific! Therefore, NOW, let us take a look at,

WHAT IS THE MYSTERY OF THE GOSPEL, part 3 of 3

THE CHURCH OF THE MYSTERY NOT PROPHESIED

There are many, many, prophecies in the Old Testament Scriptures, which will surely be fulfilled. We do have “a more sure Word of Prophecy.” Wonderful things are to take place on this earth after the King comes. The nation Israel is to undergo a great change, according to Ezekiel 36:20 to Ezekiel 37:30, Hebrews 8:7-11, Isaiah 62:1-5 and many other Scriptures. HOWEVER, these “Scripture” prophecies are NOT to be fulfilled during THIS parenthetical period, not until AFTER “the Church of the Mystery” has been completed and has come to that unity and perfection mentioned in Ephesians 4:13.

There will be many signs to indicate the coming of the Son of man to the earth. Luke 21:27-32. But the “Mystery” coming of Christ for His Body (1 Corinthians 15:51) is different and does not depend upon the doings of blood thirsty tyrants in Europe, Asia, or even Washington, D.C.. Members of the Body of Christ, during this Age of Grace, walk not by sight but by Faith. Yet, it seems next to impossible to teach Christians the difference between the “searchable” riches of Christ (Acts 17:11) and the “unsearchable” riches of Christ (Ephesians 3:8).

When the nation Israel is redeemed after the close of the times of the Gentiles, spiritually, (Romans 11:25-28), that redeemed company will be saved under the guaranty of the NEW Covenant of Jeremiah 31:31-35. They certainly will then be God’s “called-out.” The Greek word, translated, “Church” more than one hundred times in the New Testament Scriptures is the Greek word meaning “called-out.” The word “Church” is a form of the Greek word “Kurios,” meaning, “the Lord.” The Church is “of the Lord,” but the word “Church” (Ekklesia) means “called-out.” Three times in the closing verses of the nineteenth chapter of Acts this word is translated “assembly” and refers to some ungodly Ephesians gathered as an unlawful mob. In the Greek translation of the Old Testament Scriptures the word “ekklesia” is used, and is translated, “congregation.” Then we read of the “ekklesia in the wilderness.” (Acts 7:38). This has no reference to “the Church of the Mystery.” Then note Hebrews 2:12, “in the midst of the ‘ekklesia.’” This is quoted from Psalm 22:22, “in the midst of the congregation,” (Israelitish.) This Church then was a PROPHESIED Church and not the UN-PROPHESIED “Church of the Mystery”.

As we learn these facts we see how absurd it is to try to prove that “the Church of the Mystery” began before the Apostle Paul was converted, in Acts 9, because he said, “I persecuted the Church of God.” (Galatians 1:13, Philippians 3:6, and 1 Corinthians 15:9.) Paul persecuted a Jewish Church, NOT the Joint-Body of Ephesians 3:6. And, of course, certainly God had a Church BEFORE Pentecost. Matthew 18:17.

Thus we should know that the Body of Christ is the Church of God, but that the Church of God is not necessarily the Body of Christ. The Church of the Mystery is “The Body of Christ.” Note in Acts 2:16-21, Acts 2:27-32, and in Acts 3:21-26, that the Apostle Peter and the Eleven were presenting to Israel a Kingdom program, including the Kingdom communism (Acts 2:42-46), all prophesied by Joel, David, Moses, Samuel and others. Therefore, they were not members of the Church of the Mystery, the Joint-Body of Ephesians 3:6 and they were not making any one to see “the Dispensation of the Mystery.” Ephesians 3:9. They did not claim that the Dispensation of the Grace of God for Gentiles was committed unto them. They had the keys of the Kingdom of heaven quite different. There will yet, one day soon, be a wonderful New Testament Israelitish Church on this earth. But THAT Church will be different from the present “Church of the Mystery”

Every member of the Body of Christ should see, and then help others, to see what is “the Dispensation of the Mystery” and endeavor to keep the unity mentioned in Ephesians 4:1-7. Christians are not instructed to establish that unity or to establish any sectarian church, to compete with the Lord’s Church, the Body of Christ. You will remember the record in Genesis, that God created them male and female and called THEIR name “Adam.” Genesis 5:1-4. Then read the most interesting statement in 1 Corinthians 12:12, “So also is Christ.” Adam was a figure of Christ. Romans 5:14. The Body is to be the filling up of Christ. Ephesians 1:22-23. They two shall be one flesh. Ephesians 5:31-32. God is making of the twain one new man. Ephesians 2:15. The filling-up of Christ will be the perfect man, the stature of the fulness of Christ. Ephesians 4:13. So the Church of the Mystery is “Christ,” Body and Head, the perfect man.

To obey Ephesians 4:1-7 is to recognize that during this present economy of Grace, God has on this earth ONE and only ONE Church, which is NOT an organization, but an organism. God’s saints should gather with others of like precious faith in some regular meeting-place, but the phrase...“joining the Church” is not a Scriptural expression. The very moment the believing sinner is saved by the Grace of God, by the Faith in the perfect, finished, work of the perfect Christ, he, then and there becomes a member of the Body of Christ. The baptism in this operation of Faith is a Divine baptism, (not a water baptism). As Christ’s riches are the believer’s riches, so the baptism of Christ on Calvary (Luke 12:50) is the believer’s baptism and NO OTHER BAPTISM IS REQUIRED, as God’s Word plainly tells us “there is ONE baptism.” Ephesians 4:5. That is Christ’s death baptism.

Surely it would not be true to say that there is only one true Bible Church mentioned in the Scriptures; but it is true that there is only one true Bible Church in connection with “the Dispensation of the Grace of God.” Even so it would not be Scripturally correct to say that there is only one baptism in the Bible, for there are five or six in the Four Gospels and, the Book of Acts; but since the close of the Acts period, when signs and religion CEASED there has been one baptism. Members of Christ’s ONE Body cannot practice twelve different forms of water baptism and then contend for the Faith or keep the unity of the Spirit. We repeat that there is not one single Bible teacher who sees, or is making others to see, “the Dispensation of the Mystery” (Ephesians 3:9), if he teaches and practices water baptism. In Acts 15 it was turning from Christ and Calvary back to Moses and Sinai that caused the offense of the cross to cease. Today it is adding a tank of water to the finished work of Christ, with a number of explanations as to the why of the water ceremony.

Think of all that Paul, the Apostle of the Gentiles, suffered for us, that we might have this glorious truth. How very few appreciate it! If you obey Ephesians 3:9, you too will learn what religious persecution really is and you will experience such satanic pressure and opposition as you have not known. Are you willing? Read Ephesians 3:9, and obey it!

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In Ephesians 1:13 the Holy Spirit through the Apostle Paul declares that men are saved and sealed by hearing and BELIEVING the Word of Truth, the Gospel of your Salvation. Therefore, here, now, is declared unto you the Word of Truth, the Gospel of your Salvation: "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. BELIEVE today. The time is short.

So There You Have it!

Spread this message to everyone you know, far and wide.

Grace be to you and peace, from God: our Father, and The LORD Jesus Christ.

In The LORD Jesus Christ,
The Lion and Lamb Ministry

Pastor David Picos, D.D.
Minister and Ambassador for Christ in the Ministry of Reconciliation (2 Cor. 5:18-20)

Subscribe Here to the LLM Newsletter , Follow LLM on Twitter , Subscribe to LLM on Youtube , LLM on MySpace , and FaceBook

LLM Question for 2-23-2012, and, WHAT IS THE MYSTERY OF THE GOSPEL, part 1 of 3

First the Question: Are you ashamed, as a result of your membership in a denomination, of the Apostle Paul, his Grace testimony, or of the Mystery of the Gospel, God’s ETERNAL PURPOSE IN CHRIST? Yes or No? Please answer with care.

Take a moment to respond at the LLM Question of the Day

And now the answer to the LLM Question of 2-21-2012

Question: There is in the Bible, the Gospel, or Good News, for the unsaved, AND, the Gospel for the saved. True or False?

Answer: TRUE! Confused? Don't be! And, what IS the truth for saints in the Bible that transcends all other truth, grand and glorious? It is “The Mystery.” Take note, this is quite different from 1 Corinthians 15:1-4, as wonderful as is the good news that Christ died for our sins, was buried and was raised the third day. All of that good news, we are told in those verses, was “according to the Scriptures.” BUT, “the Mystery of the Gospel,” “the Mystery of God’s will,” was NOT “according to the Scriptures” (Old Testament prophecy), but “according to the ETERNAL purpose of God,” HID in God from BEFORE the foundation of the world. Ephesians 3: 9-11. And being that it was hid in God, Israel’s prophets said nothing and knew nothing about it. Now, out of the 732 responses we received to this question, ONLY 68.8% of you got it right! We have work to do on this. Therefore, NOW, let us take a look at,

WHAT IS THE MYSTERY OF THE GOSPEL, part 1 of 3

Christians have erred exceedingly in trying to force and limit the meaning of the word “gospel” to fit into their theological thinking or some sectarian, or denominational church creed and program.

Every intelligent, spiritual student of the Scriptures knows the difference between “the Gospel of the Kingdom” and “the Gospel of the Grace of God.” Compare Matthew 4:23 and Acts 20:24. So should every such student of the Scriptures know the difference between the saving gospel for sinners in 1 Corinthians 15:1-4 and the gospel for saints.

There is in the Bible, the Gospel, “good news”, for the unsaved, and the Gospel,“good news”, for the saved. Confused? Don't be! And, what is the truth for saints in the Bible that transcends all other truth, grand and glorious? It is “The Mystery.” Take note, this is quite different from 1 Corinthians 15:1-4, as wonderful as is the good news that Christ died for our sins, was buried and was raised the third day. All of that good news, we are told in those verses, was “according to the Scriptures.” BUT, “the Mystery of the Gospel,” “the Mystery of God’s will,” was NOT “according to the Scriptures” (Old Testament prophecy), but “according to the eternal purpose of God,” HID in God from before the foundation of the world. Ephesians 3:9-11. And being that it was hid in God, Israel’s prophets said nothing and knew nothing about it.

When Christ died at the hands of Israel and made His grave with the rich and was buried and was raised again, all was in fulfillment of the writings of Israel’s prophets. Acts 13:29-30. But what about the present place and ministry of Christ and His relationship to Gentiles and Jews saved by Grace, during this present economy, the Dispensation of Grace? What prophet foretold that during at least twenty centuries Christ would remain in heaven, while the Messianic earthly kingdom of Christ would be in abeyance, that He would be the unseen Head of the Church, Which is His Body, the filling-up of Christ? Who foretold that Christ would be seated far above all heavens and that believing Gentiles, without subjection to the kingdom nation, could be crucified, dead, buried, raised, risen and seated with Christ, in the heavenlies, and in Him and with Him blessed with all spiritual blessings in the heavenlies, while waiting for Him to appear in glory when they shall appear with Him, because they were chosen in Christ before the world began? Who foretold it? No ONE! It was hid in God.

Apart from the violent and intense hatred of Satan for this grand and glorious truth, it is next to impossible to believe that any truly saved person would oppose and fight it. But, OH, how some Christians, including some of our leading Fundamentalists, do hate it! One reason is, that the Mystery is the death blow to all denominations and all sectarian, religious ceremonies, as it is the golden key to unlock the Scriptures and God’s curative for all the ills and isms with which the Body of Christ is afflicted, “that ye no longer be children tossed to and fro with every wind of doctrine.” Think of a Bible teacher, who claims to be a steward of the Mysteries of God (1 Corinthians 4:1-4), knowing not the first thing about the Body, as the fullness of Christ (Ephesians 1:19-23), “the one new man” (Ephesians 2:15), “the one flesh” (Ephesians 5:31-32), “the perfect man!” Ephesians 4:13.

ACCORDING TO GOD’S ETERNAL PURPOSE

There are different aspects and phases of “the Mystery,” “the Mystery of God’s Will,” “the Dispensation of the Mystery,” which has to do with principalities and powers in the heavenlies, the inseparable and eternal union of believers with Christ, the riches of God’s grace, the riches of God’s glory, the whole family in heaven and earth, God’s inheritance in the saints and His calling. But the Mystery might be defined as “God’s eternal purpose in Christ.”

In Ephesians 3:10 we learn one reason why God wants all saints to see what is the Mystery, that is, that by the Church the manifold wisdom of God might be made known to principalities and powers in the heavenlies, ACCORDING TO GOD’S ETERNAL PURPOSE IN CHRIST. This wisdom was ordained to the glory of members of the Body of Christ before the world began. 1 Corinthians 2:6-8. This wisdom, which was spoken to the perfect, in a Mystery, was too much for the carnal, sectarian Corinthians, who could not take the strong meat that was for the perfect (full-aged) (1 Corinthians 3:1-4, Hebrews 5:9-12). It seems to be too much for sectarian, denominational, Christians today. They seem to be unwilling to come out from under that ecclesiastical rubbish where the precious gem has been buried, lost, for so many centuries.

Members of the Body of Christ in 2012 should be instructed in the words of the Apostle Paul, recorded in 2 Timothy 1:8-11, “Be not thou therefore ashamed of the testimony of our Lord, nor of me his prisoner: but be thou partaker of the afflictions of the gospel according to the power of God; Who hath saved us, and called us with a HOLY calling, not according to our works, but according to his own purpose and Grace, which was given us in Christ Jesus before the world began; But is now made manifest by the appearing of our Savior Jesus Christ, who hath abolished death, and hath brought life and immortality to light through the gospel: Whereunto I am appointed a preacher, and an apostle, and a teacher of the Gentiles.”

“Whereunto,” or “whereby,” is used by Paul several times in this same connection, his Apostleship to the Gentiles with THE ETERNAL PURPOSE OF GOD, for which He was the prisoner of the Lord Jesus Christ. As we have stated before in many messages on LLM, the mystery was revealed to the Apostle Paul ALONE, to pass on to others. It was NOT in Israel’s Scriptures. It was NOT revealed to the twelve Apostles. The Apostle Peter never preached it, so far as the Record goes. Paul got into serious trouble, because he claimed that he had received this special truth by special revelation, not made known to others. He could not prove it by the Scriptures, because it had been hid in God.

Now, as many were ashamed of the Apostle Paul in 64 A.D., so also, many Christians are ashamed today of the Lord’s servants who preach Grace plus nothing, for salvation, and who endeavor to obey Ephesians 3:9 and Ephesians 4:1-7, especially when they get to that one Body and one baptism. But Paul testified that this Grace and purpose of God was given believers in Christ before the world began. In 2 Timothy 1:9 and in Ephesians 2:7 the Apostle shows us the eternity of Grace; what God did, in Grace, before the ages began and what He is going to do, in grace, in the ages to come.

So the question: Are you ashamed of the Apostle Paul or his Grace testimony or of God’s ETERNAL PURPOSE IN CHRIST?

This eternal purpose is always linked with PREDESTINATION. Let’s read Ephesians 1:9-11, “Having made known unto us the Mystery of his will, according to his good pleasure which he hath purposed in himself: In whom also we have obtained an inheritance, being predestinated according to the purpose of him who worketh all things after the counsel of his own will.”

Now let’s read Romans 8:28-30, “And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose. For whom he did foreknow, he also did predestinate to be conformed to the image of his Son, that he might be the firstborn among many brethren. Moreover, whom he did predestinate, them he also called: and whom he called, them he also justified: and whom he justified, them he also glorified.”

Now let’s read Ephesians 1:4-5, “According as he hath chosen us in him before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy and without blame before him in love: Having predestinated us unto the adoption of children by Jesus Christ to himself, according to the good pleasure of his will.”

Do you see why religious people in the year 64 A.D. were ashamed of this Mystery, AND, why the religious people of 2012 A.D. are ashamed of this Mystery? How many of even the leading spiritual Fundamentalists are praying for an open mouth and for open doors for the proclamation of the Mystery? Ephesians 6:19-20. Colossians 4:3-4. Most of them are helping to CLOSE every door in the country against this truth that is grand and glorious and they have succeeded in closing most mouths. So the few servants of the LORD, who are earnestly endeavoring to make known this wonderful truth, are being attacked from both sides.

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In Ephesians 1:13 the Holy Spirit through the Apostle Paul declares that men are saved and sealed by hearing and BELIEVING the Word of Truth, the Gospel of your Salvation. Therefore, here, now, is declared unto you the Word of Truth, the Gospel of your Salvation: "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. BELIEVE today. The time is short.

So There You Have it!

Spread this message to everyone you know, far and wide.

Grace be to you and peace, from God: our Father, and The LORD Jesus Christ.

In The LORD Jesus Christ,
The Lion and Lamb Ministry

Pastor David Picos, D.D.
Minister and Ambassador for Christ in the Ministry of Reconciliation (2 Cor. 5:18-20)

Subscribe Here to the LLM Newsletter , Follow LLM on Twitter , Subscribe to LLM on Youtube , LLM on MySpace , and FaceBook