RAINBOW OF LOVE CHRISTIAN OUTREACH MINISTRY
A PLACE FOR ALL OF GODS CHILDREN TO COME AND WORSHIP THE LORD AND SAVIOR JESUS!
What Will It Take For The Church of Our Living God to Make Herself - Ready?
What Will It Take For The Church of Our Living God to Make Herself - Ready?
Revelation 19:7 says that the Bride of Christ will make herself ready for the marriage of the Lamb of God. What will it take for the Church of our Living God to make herself ready for the marriage of the Lamb of God? For this to occur, we must address the great divide within the Body of Christ. However, to address this divide it will be quite painful for many because some have been spoiled and must decide if it is more important to serve the Living God than to hold onto pride, positions, degrees earned from bible colleges and other institutions, and traditions. This will not be easy for many; some will not repent and will hold on to the things of the world. Nevertheless, according to the word of God, the Bride of Christ will make herself ready for the marriage of the Lamb of God.
It is important that we acknowledge that something is wrong within the Body of Christ today. As we look, we can clearly see a great divide within the Body of Christ with people on both side of the spectrum who have gone through bible colleges and universities and earned PhD’s and DD’s, however they cannot fellowship with one another within the Body of Christ because of their doctrines. However, they all profess that they serve the same God in the name of JESUS.
Before, we examine what has created the divide, let look at what is required of us when we accept our vocations. According to Ephesians 4:1-3, we must walk worthy of the vocation wherewith we are called, with all lowliness and meekness, with longsuffering, forbearing one another in love; endeavouring to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace. Thus, we must not think too highly of ourselves.
Some do not believe that God has apostles and prophets today. However, according to Ephesians 4:11, Jesus gave some, apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers:” Why did Jesus give them to the church?
Ephesians 4:12-14 gives the reason. “For the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ: 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 fullness of Christ: That we henceforth be no more children, tossed to and fro, and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the sleight of men, and cunning craftiness, whereby they lie in wait to deceive.”
Today, we find the saints of God being tossed to and fro by every wind of doctrine. Why is this occurring? Answer - They have not received the knowledge of the Son of God unto a perfect man, unto the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ. Moreover, the truth is not being spoken in love by many teachers. Moreover, some of the teachers do not understand this truth – “Within Jesus dwelleth the fullness of the Godhead bodily and ye are complete in Him, which is the head of principality and power.” It is imperative that every believer understand this truth.
What are some of Satan methods to deceive in his battle plan? Answers: (1) Sleight of men and (2) Cunning craftiness. In summary, many are deceived through philosophy and vain deceit, after the tradition of men, after the rudiments of the world, and not after Christ. Let us identify some of specific sleights of men, cunning craftiness, traditions, vain deceit, and rudiments of the world.
(1) Sleight of Men – Skillful, quick and clever, uses gimmicks, readiness, ploy, wile, stratagem - (1) a scheme or trick for surprising or deceiving an enemy (2) any artifice or ruse devised to attain a goal or gain an advantage. We must fully explore this factor. Satan’s battle plan must counter the Word of God. Therefore, Satan must have teachers in universities and bible colleges who do not believe in the Word of God and have the love of money. Besides teachers who do not believe, Satan must employ teachers who have been deceived. Moreover, Satan must have bibles that are being used to support his mission. However, the bibles must contain truth and lies. However, the lies must be concealed – this is done by omitting words, replacing words, changing sentences – at first glance it must appears that these changes were done to help facilitate the flow of words. This is exactly what has happened today with some of the changes made in the NIVs and other versions of the bible. Some of the bible colleges and universities are recommending the NIVs instead of King James version of the Bible. This is a serious error in judgment. Below we can learn lessons from errors of these types of errors in the past.
“But they also have erred through wine, and through strong drink are out of the way; the priest and the prophet have erred through strong drink, they are swallowed up of wine, they are out of the way through strong drink; they err in vision, they stumble in judgment. For all tables are full of vomit and filthiness, so that there is no place clean.” (Isaiah 28:7-8) Isaiah continues this discussion with the following questions and declaration.
“Whom shall he teach knowledge? And whom shall he make to understand doctrine? Them that are weaned from the milk, and drawn from the breasts. For precept must be upon precept, precept upon precept; line upon line, line upon line; here a little, and there a little: For with stammering lips and another tongue will he speak to his people” (Isaiah 28:9-11)
Today, the church is experiencing the same thing; some of the ministers have drunk bad wine straight way. The wine in this text, you cannot purchase it at the local liquor store, however it can be purchase from most local Bible Book Stores. Luke 5:39 says, “No man also have drunk old wine straightway; desireth new: for he saith, the old is better.” Now here are some sobering thoughts. Some of the new translations of the Bible have altered the scriptures. These alterations include, deleting words and phrases, changing the text, amplifying the text without understanding the base scriptures, changing verb tenses, and the list goes on. Consequently, these are some of the unclean things found on the tables or used to prepare the bread. Unfortunately, some have drunk this bad wine straight way.
Then the problem is compounded, when some take scriptures and use them without lining the scriptures up as required: “Precept upon precept, precept upon precept, line upon line, line upon line, here a little and there a little.” Consequently, only vomit can come out of their mouths and not the word of God.
Here are a few examples of the alterations:
(1) John 3:16, some Bibles have removed the word “begotten.”
(2) John 12:28, some Bibles have removed the word “both.”
(3) John 12:28, some Bibles have changed the text From: “Then came there a voice from heaven, saying, I have both glorified it, and will glorify it again.” TO: “Then came there a voice from heaven saying, I have already glorified it, and will glorify it again.” However, this alteration has a great impact on understand the meaning of this scriptures.
(4) Ezekiel 19:10 says, “Thy mother is like a vine in thy blood, planted by the waters: …” Some Bibles have changed “is” to “was.”
(5) Isaiah 48:16 says, “Come ye near unto me, hear ye this; I have not spoken in secret from the beginning; from the time that it was, there am I: and now the Lord God, and his spirit, hath sent me.” The New Living Translation, by Tyndale changed the text to read. “Come closer and listen. I have always told you plainly what would happen so you would have no trouble understanding. And now the Sovereign Lord and his Spirit have sent me with this message:”
(6) Isaiah 28:7 says, “But they also have erred through wine, and through strong drink are out of the way; the priest and the prophet have erred through strong drink, they are out of the way through strong drink; they err in vision, they stumble in judgment.” The New Living Translation, by Tyndale changed the text to read as follows: “Now, however, Israel is being led by drunks! The priests and prophets reel and stagger from beer and wine. They make stupid mistakes as they carry out their responsibilities.”
I purchased a copy of the New Living Translation, by Tyndale in 2000, it did not take me long to discover that is bad wine. However, if I would have drunk it straight way, today I would be a drunkard and would not be able to rightly divide the word of truth because I would not have receive truth from that cup. Nevertheless, I would have proclaimed that I was correct and had the truth and would not desire to drink from any other cup. The Holy Bible, New Living Translation, by Tyndale is only one example, there are other translations that are wine or strong drink and out of the way of the truth, the truth in the cup that the Apostles of Jesus Christ drank from.
Surely, many tables are full of vomit and filthiness, and some ministries are drunk and full of pride, and have the love for money. Consequently, some do not have love for the truth and will reject the word of God and hold fast to their current practices. They attempt to prepare the Bread of God with the wrong recipes, bad ingredients in kitchens that are full of vomit and filthiness. Pride and the love of money will keep them from rechecking the recipe, getting rid of the bad ingredients and cleaning up the filth. Consequently, today many people who profess Christianity are drunk and do not really know who our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ is.
Satan has taken advantage of all of our mistakes and faults. According to 1 Thessalonians 2:9-11, For the ones who do not have love for truth, Satan will have all power and lying wonders. And the ones who do not love the truth will be in a state of deceivableness of unrighteousness, and God will send them strong delusion, that they should believe a lie: that they all might be damned who believed not the truth, but had pleasure in unrighteousness. Errors made in the past do not have to be our burdens. However, we must have love for the truth. We can be set free by repenting and following the word of God today.
(2) Rudiments of the world – rudiment is defined as something that is undeveloped or an imperfect form. Here is an example of a rudiment that is use by some. In Matthew 28:19 Jesus says, “Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost.” This is a command that was given, to carry out this command you must call upon the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Ghost. Some only will repeat the command and do not execute the command by calling on the name of “JESUS” as the apostles did in the book of Acts. Some do not call on the name of Jesus because they fail to understand scriptures. On the other hands, there are some that understand scriptures, however hold fast to traditions, or their pride prevent them from changing and serving God in a more perfect way.
We must understand Satan’s battle plan – Satan plan is to spoil the saints of God. Consequently, many have been spoiled through the philosophy and vain deceit, after traditions of men, after the rudiments of the world, and not after Christ. They have been spoiled because they have accepted philosophies, vain deceit and traditions of men and failed to study to show themselves approve unto God. Together, we must work to change this.
In 2 Timothy 2:15 a command was given to “Study to show thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.” It is unfortunate that some go to bible colleges, universities, and seminaries to study the word of God, but they find themselves learning in institutions whereby the philosophies of men are being taught instead of the word of God. Therefore, some saints limit their study to show themselves approved unto their professors instead of unto God. Then after graduating from these institutions, many are employed by institutions that hold fast to traditions and philosophies of men that are contrary to the word of God. We must work to end this destructive cycle and focus on Jesus’ will for His body, the Church. Jesus wants us to be made perfect in one. (John 17:23)
Therefore, we must work to that end. One of the things that we must do is to understand the Full Stature of Jesus Christ and understand that God is the Savior, there is only one Lord, and within Jesus dwelleth the fullness of the Godhead bodily. Zechariah 14:9 says, “And the LORD shall be king over all the earth: and in that day shall there be one LORD, and his name one.” We must understand what Isaiah 9:6 – “For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, The might God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace.” It is imperative that we understand that this says the name JESUS will be called: “The might God and The everlasting Father.” Please note the NIVs have removed the word “name” from this verse.
Jesus Christ was tasked to manifest the name of the Father, the only true God, as “JESUS” to those that were given him. Listen carefully. Isaiah 63:12 says that God led them by the hand of Moses … to make himself an everlasting name. Isaiah 63:16 says, “… Thou, O Lord, art our father, our redeemer; thy name is from everlasting.” Therefore, this means that God’s name now is not the same as it was in the beginning, but God made a new name for himself, an everlasting name. A name that is from everlasting; a name that is not from the beginning, but from everlasting until it was manifested and declared by Jesus Christ. Jesus Christ declared (made known) the Father’s name. (John 17:26) Jesus accomplished this task. The scribes, Pharisees, Sadducees and the Romans did not understand this truth; it is unfortunate today, there are many who profess to be Christians who still do not understand this truth because of the doctrines of men. At 2 Corinthians 4:3-4 it says, “But if our gospel be hid, it is hid to them that are lost: In whom the god of this world hath blinded the minds of them which believe not, lest the light of the glorious gospel of Christ, who is the image of God, should shine upon them.”
Before we leave this point, let us examine several more scriptures. In John 17:11-12, Jesus says, “And now I am no more in the world, but these are in the world, and I come to thee. Holy Father, keep through thine own name those whom thou has given me, that they may be one, as we are. While I was with them in the world, I kept them in thy name: those that thou gavest me I have kept, and none of them is lost, but the son of perdition; that the scripture might be fulfilled.” Remember in John 5:43, Jesus says, “I am come in my Father’s name, …”
The children of Israel defiled the Holy name of the Lord that Moses declared, by the abominations that they committed. (Isaiah 43:8) God said that he would sanctify his great name, which was profaned among the heathen, which ye have profaned in the midst of them; and the heathen shall know that I am the LORD, saith the Lord God, when I shall be sanctified in you before their eyes. (Ezekiel 36:23) In Ezekiel 39:7 God said, “I will make my holy name known in the midst of my people Israel; and I will not let them pollute my holy name anymore: and the heathen shall know that I am the LORD, the Holy One of Israel.” Jesus Christ was tasked to declare the name of the Father; Jesus Christ accomplished this task in the midst of the people of Israel.
In John 17:26, Jesus Christ says, “And I have declared unto them thy name, and will declare it: that the love wherewith thou hast loved me may be in them, and I in them.” At John 12:23 Jesus says, “The hour is come, that the Son of man should be glorified.” In John 12:28-29, Jesus says, “Father, glorify thy name.” “Then came there a voice from heaven, saying I have both glorified it, and will glorify it again. The people therefore, that stood by, and heard it, said that it thundered: other said, An angel spake to him.” The Father said I have both glorified it. This means the Father glorified the name “JESUS” as his name and he glorified the name “JESUS” for the redeemer. Listen. This was the fulfillment of the prophecy as recorded in Isaiah 63:14-16. God made himself a glorious name (Isaiah 63:14) and this glorious name is for Our LORD who is the Father and the Redeemer; this name is from everlasting (Isaiah 63:16). Praise God for this truth.
Listen carefully; this is what most theologians have missed. The Lord God Jehovah made a covenant with the Redeemer and with Zion and unto them that turn from their transgression in Jacob.
Isaiah 59:20-21 says, “And the Redeemer shall come to Zion, and unto them that turn from transgression in Jacob, said the LORD. As for me, this is my covenant with them, saith the LORD; My spirit that is upon thee, and my words which I have put in thy mouth, shall not depart out of thy mouth, nor out of the mouth of thy seed, nor out of the mouth of thy seed’s seed, said the LORD, from henceforth and for ever.”
Isaiah Chapter 59 explains how the iniquities of Israel had separated them from God and how God hid his face from them because of their sins. Isaiah 59:15-17 states, “… it displeased him (God) that there was no judgment … For he (God) put on righteousness as a breastplate, and an helmet of salvation upon his head; and he put on the garments of vengeance of clothing, and was clad with zeal as a cloak.” Isaiah 61:10 says that God has clothed me (the Redeemer) with the garments of salvation, and he hath covered me with the robe of righteousness, as a bridegroom decked himself with ornaments …” Therefore, it is the righteous of the Redeemer that must go forth as brightness and it is the salvation of the Redeemer that must go forth as a lamp that burneth.
Isaiah 62:11 supports this assertion, “Behold, the LORD hath proclaimed unto the end of the world, “Say ye to the daughter of Zion, Behold, thy salvation cometh; behold, his reward is with him, and his work before him.” Thy Salvation is our Lord and Saviour, Jesus Christ, the Redeemer.
Who is the Redeemer? Let us see who the Redeemer says he is; you must understand this. “Come ye near unto me, hear ye this; I have not spoken in secret from the beginning; from the time that it was, there am I: and now the LORD God, and his spirit, hath sent me. Thus saith the LORD, thy Redeemer, the Holy One of Israel; I am the LORD thy God which teacheth thee to profit which leadeth thee by the way that thou shouldest go. O that thou hadst hearkened to my commandments! Then had thy peace been as a river, and thy righteousness as the waves of the sea:” (Isaiah 48:16-18) The Redeemer is the LORD thy God, praise the Lord for this truth. Now listen carefully to the Spirit of the Lord as you read the next paragraph.
Isaiah 44:6 says, “Thus saith the Lord the King of Israel, and his redeemer the Lord of hosts; I am the first, and I am the last; and beside me there is no God.” Read it again. Who said, “I am the first, and I am the last; and beside me there is no God?” Answer: Both, The Lord the King of Israel, and his redeemer the Lord of hosts. “Beside me there is no God.” “Me” includes both, The Lord the King of Israel (The Father) and his redeemer the Lord of hosts, the Savior. This is key to understanding who Jesus Christ is as you search the scriptures. The name “JESUS” is the redeemer’s new name and the Father’s new name – the “Father and his redeemer” are one.
Many do not understand that the Father tasked Jesus to declare His name. This declared and glorious name is JESUS. Jesus declared it, and then, the Father glorified it for both, the Son and Himself. The name is from everlasting until it, was declared and glorified.
Many do not understand this statement, “A little while, and ye shall not see me: and again, a little while, and ye shall see me, because I go to the Father.” (John 16:16) It is very important to understand this statement. Jesus explains what will happen when he goes back to the Father and the affect of the name of Jesus.
Jesus says, “And in that day ye shall ask me nothing. Verily, verily, I say unto you, Whatsoever ye shall ask the Father in my name, he will give it you. Hitherto have ye asked nothing in my name: ask, and ye shall receive, that your joy may be full. These things have I spoken unto you in proverbs: but the time cometh, when I shall no more speak unto you in proverbs, but I shall show you plainly of the Father. At that day ye shall ask in my name: and I say not unto you, that I will pray the Father for you: For the Father himself loveth you, because ye have loved me, and have believed that I came out from God. I came forth from the Father, and am come into the world: again, I leave the world, and go to the Father.” (John 16:23-28)
Listen carefully to what Jesus said about his ascension to the Father. In John 6:62-63 Jesus said, “What and if ye shall see the Son of man ascend up where he was before? It is the spirit that quickeneth; the flesh profiteth nothing: the words that I speak unto you, they are spirit, and they are life.” Here we can see that it is not about the flesh, however it is about the Word of God. “In the beginning was The Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. The same was in the beginning with God. JESUS is the WORD; the WORD is spirit.
After Jesus ascension to heaven, where He was before where did he go? According to Revelation 22:1-3, there is only one throne in heaven, the throne of God and of the Lamb. In Revelation 4:1-2 John writes, After this I looked, and, behold, a door was opened in heaven: and the first voice which I heard was as it were of a trumpet, talking with me; which said, Come up hither and I will show thee things which must be hereafter. And immediately I was in the spirit: and, behold, a throne was set in heaven, and one sat on the throne. Revelation 7:9-17 explains the great multitude that gathered before the throne of God. Revelation 7:17 says, “For the Lamb which is in the midst of the throne shall feed them…” In Revelation 19:13, the Lamb’s name is called The Word of God.” The Lamb had on his vesture and on his thigh a name written, KING OF KINGS, AND LORD OF LORDS. (Revelation 19:16)
According to Revelation 19:12, the Lamb had a name written that no man knew, but himself. In Revelation 3:12 Jesus says, that he would write the name of His God and His new name upon him that overcometh. Revelation 14:1-5 explains that first fruits that were redeemed from the earth had the Father’s name written in their foreheads.
Revelation chapter 21 explains that John saw a new heaven and a new earth; and first heaven and the first earth had passed away. John saw the holy city, new Jerusalem, coming down from God out of heaven, prepared as a bride adorned for her husband. Revelation chapter 22 further explains that the throne of God and of the Lamb shall be in it; and his servants shall serve him: And they shall see his face; and his name shall be in their foreheads. Zechariah prophesied, “And the Lord shall be king over all the earth: in that day shall there be one Lord, and His name one.” (Zechariah 14:9)
Bridging The Divide
Today, there is division within the Church. Divided we cannot stand. However, within God’s House, God allows the wheat and tares to grow together and then separates them at harvest time. (Matthew 13:30) But God’s will is to have all men to be saved, and to come unto the knowledge of the truth. (1 Timothy 2:4) “Therefore, Jesus Christ has given some apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers; for the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry, and for the edifying of the body of Christ: 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 fullness of Christ: That we henceforth be no more children tossed to and fro, and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the sleight of men, and cunning craftiness, whereby they lie in wait to deceive: But speaking the truth in love, may grow up into him in all things, which is the head even Christ:” (Ephesians 4:11-15)
Like teachers, pastors, and evangelists were given to the Church, Jesus Christ gave some apostles and prophets until 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 fullness of Christ. The church has not reach these objectives: (1) Unity of Faith and (2) The knowledge of the Son of God, unto a perfect man, unto the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ.
However, there are some that do not believe that there are apostles or prophets among us today. Scriptures do not support this disbelief. Satan continues to use various tools such as denominations to weaken the body of Christ.
Denominations foster division because its focus is to distinguish one group of Christians from another group of Christians. There are however differences of administrations and diversities of operations, but the same spirit. Satan has been able to use denominations as one of his devices, which is a crafty scheme; a trick to divide and destroy the body of Christ. To overcome this device, the body of Christ must effect God’s plan for edification, which includes apostles, and prophets as outlined in the scriptures. (Ephesians 4:11-12)
God wants us to come in the unity of the faith, and the knowledge of the Son of God, unto a perfect man, unto the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ. (Ephesians 4:13) However, without the Holy Spirit leading us to all truth it is impossible to get to this knowledge of truth. The Holy Spirit must become the teacher. If not, many will continue to be tossed to and fro, and carried about with every wind of doctrine.
Brothers and Sisters, God has invested a lot in us. 2 Corinthians 4:7 says, “… we have this treasure in earthen vessels, that the excellency of the power may be of God, and not of us.” All power and authority in heaven and on earth have been given to our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. Jesus has given us the power and authority to use His Name. We have been given super-natural power. Therefore, we must stop and take a real look at who we are in Christ Jesus.
We are not only made in the image of God. For the ones who believe and have accepted Jesus Christ as Lord and Saviour, we all have become Holy Temples of God, each and every one of us. As children of God, Jesus has given us the power and authority to do supernatural things in His Name. When you pray in the name of Jesus, it is just like Jesus is praying. When you speak the word and cast out demons in the name of Jesus, it is just as Jesus Himself spoke the word. When you lay hands on the sick, it is just as if Jesus Himself laid His hands on the sick and they recovered. We have been given power and God has given the command to use this power for his glory. However, most have failed to seize this power.
Each one of us who believes and keeps the commands that Jesus gave us is a Holy Temple of God, with supernatural powers to operate in the name of Jesus Christ. Yet we are still members of a bigger body. We are members of the Body of Christ. Ephesians 4:16 says that the whole body fitly joined together and compacted by which every joint supplieth, according to the effectual working in the measure of every part, maketh increase of the body unto the edifying of itself in love. It is so important for us to clearly understand whose we are and our relationship with one another. God wants us to realize that truly we are members of the body of Christ with special work assigned to each and every one of us. We must work together carrying out our tasks to support one another. Moreover, our love for one another serves as the fuel that keeps it alive and growing. The Book of Romans, chapter twelve, explains how we should use the gifts that God has given us. The book of Ephesians, chapter four explains our relationship with one another.
A MESSAGE TO THE CALLED, CHOSEN, AND THE FAITHFUL
ACTIONS THAT WE MUST TAKE TODAY
To the called, chosen, and the faithful, we must learn from these reports, the lessons learned and take heed. These report cards were written for us to examine what has gone wrong and to repent and take all corrective actions. In summary here are the things that we must do today:
(1) Remember from where we have fallen. Chapter one of this book, gave a detailed exposition on where we have fallen from and looks into the future. It points out that the everlasting covenant will be broken and then final judgment will come. We must learn to fear God from the precepts of God and not from the precepts of man. We have included an appendix to this book that examines the history of the kings of Israel and Judah. We can learn from their errors.
(2) Repent and return to the first work. We must preach the gospel of Jesus Christ to all creatures throughout the world and ensure that His lambs, His sheep, His sheep, are properly fed the gospel of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. We must take a close look at all of our activities or (works) and make an evaluation to see how much time we are spending on the first works. Moreover, we must pay special attention to what Jesus told the church of Thyatira, that they were spending more time doing the last works than the first works.
(3) We must not follow the doctrines of Balaam.
(4) We must not follow the doctrines of Nicolaitanes to include the beliefs of the Sadducees and the Pharisees. We must understand that the beliefs and practices of these groups influenced the doctrines of the Roman Catholics. We must get rid of all documents that do not align with the Word of God.
(5) We must not follow the practices of Jezebel.
(6) We must be watchful and strengthen the things that remain.
(7) Adhere to the counseling that was given to the Church of the Laodiceans and repent and be zealous for God.
(8) Remember His name. His Name is JESUS; Hold fast to His Name JESUS. Remember His name is the Name that is in the phrase, “In the Name of the Father, Son, and Holy Ghost,” There is no power in the phrase, but the power is in the Name, “JESUS.” The name “JESUS” is above all other names.
STATUS REPORT ON THE BRIDE OF CHRIST – 2007
(Below is an Excerpt from one of my latest books, “Edifying the Body of Christ: Unbinding the Strong Man”)
Just as Jesus gave a report card on the Seven Churches to John, God has provided a similar report regarding the Bride of Christ today. We can learn from the lessons learned as outlined in Reports to the Seven Churches. We can use these lessons to address our problems today. Below is a summary of the revelation regarding the Bride of Christ that the Holy Spirit revealed to me on July 23, 2004.
On July 23, 2004, God showed me the Bride of Christ as she was falling onto broken scattered glass. After she fell, I took her by the hand and helped her onto her feet. The Bride of Christ had cuts and bruises on her backside. The next thing that happened, I commenced turning on a water control valve. The valve was connected to a water hose and the water was running over her back. At one point the water got too hot, then the Bride cried out for me to lower the temperature. I lowered the temperature; and the Bride continued to be hosed off. Then I woke up.
The Holy Spirit showed me this after I had monitored programs on TBN, Daystar, The Church Channel and The WORD Network. Of special interest were programs focusing on the state of America, amending the Constitution of the United States to protect the union of marriage, and support for the war on terrorism. Moreover, after I saw a program on July 22, 2004 on Trinity Broadcasting Network (TBN), I prayed and asked God what He wanted me to do because God has given me a different message for the Church? I asked God to order my footsteps. Listen carefully.
The Bride of Christ fell onto broken scattered glass. Now she has cuts and bruises on her backside. God wants the Bride of Christ healed without spot, wrinkle, blemish or any such thing. I clearly understood the vision.
The water: The water was the Word of God, living water. Now I realize the water that was flowing through the hose running over the back of the Bride of Christ was the word of God contained in this book.
The water control valve: This device was used to temper the Word of God with His Love. Now I realize why the Bride of Christ cried out when the water got too hot. The Bride was crying out because the Spirit of Truth brought revelations that clearly showed how the Bride had been deceived. These revelations that caused most of the pain are regarding the doctrines on “Holy Trinity” and baptism.
Why did the Bride Fall? She fell as a confused person because individuals at all levels have allowed their feelings and emotions to affect their messages; these individuals failed to be sober and have got caught up in a debate which is a delusion sent from God. As God wrote to Ephraim, the same message is for the Church today. “But they also have erred through wine, and through strong drink are out of the way; the priest and the prophet have erred through strong drink, they are swallowed up of wine, they are out of the way through strong drink; they err in vision, they stumble in judgment. For all tables are full of vomit and filthiness, so that there is no place clean. Whom shall he teach knowledge? And whom shall he make to understand doctrine? Them that are weaned from the milk, and drawn from the breasts. For precept must be upon precept; precept upon precept, line upon line, line upon line, and here a little, and there a little.” (Isaiah 28:7-10) As you know when programs are aired on TBN the entire Body of Christ is impacted; surely this is the reason the Bride of Christ fell as a confused person onto broken scattered glass.
The Broken Scattered Glass: The broken scattered glass represents the doctrines that are taught that consist of philosophy, vain deceit, after the traditions of men, after the rudiments of the world and not after Christ. Please note, the glass was not part of the foundation, however, the broken scattered glass was lying on top of the foundation.
What does God want me to do? God wants me to deliver the message He gave me in 2001 to His people in the United States and to deliver this most recent message to his apostles, prophets/prophetess, evangelists, pastors, and teachers. He wants me to share this work with the body of Christ throughout the world. The message to the United States is recorded in a book titled, “Ending Terrorism in The United States: God Has Warned U. S.”
What the Church must do? The Church must repent and do the first work. Effect the edification process as outlined in Ephesians 4:11-16. Then we can work to ensure that the Bride of Christ is healed and made ready for the marriage. Then we will be ready for spiritual warfare. The called, chosen, and faithful must use all of our gifts in love to effect the edification process. We must repent and return to the first work; we must preach the gospel of Jesus Christ to all creatures throughout the world and ensure that His lambs, His sheep, and His sheep (pastors and teachers) are properly fed the gospel of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ.
The called, chosen, and faithful: The called, chosen, and faithful must work together in love and remove the broken glass. Therefore, the called, chosen, and faithful must work together and get rid of all commandments of men and traditions that are contrary to the word of God and that are taught to the body of Christ for doctrines. It is imperative that we work to this end because we are connected unto one another; there is only one Body of Christ.
God has given this book, “Edifying The Body Of Christ: Unbinding the Strong Man” to this generation to help commence the edification process for the unity of the faith, and the knowledge of the Son of God, unto a perfect man, unto the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ. Now God is calling for His true apostles, His true prophets, evangelists, pastors, and teachers, to work on one accord, to perfect the saints, do work of the ministry, and to edify the body of Christ. God is faithful to all of His promises. The Bride will be healed without spot, blemish, wrinkle or any such thing. Praise the Lord. But there are many who have been deceived and will continue to fail to study to show themselves approved unto God. Consequently, they will not be ready on the day of the Lord.
Revelation-Knowledge of the Lord Going Forth
On or about September 20, 2004, after I received revelation knowledge from the book of Malachi regarding God’s desire from us, an offering in righteousness, I dreamed a dream that God gave me. First, I saw myself diving into a swimming pool; the pool contained clear water. I went deep into the pool. Next I saw myself coming up out of the pool. Then I saw myself standing in front of the pool. As I stood in front of the pool, I watched clear water flow from the pool and cover the land. This was a beautiful sight; there appeared to be an endless flow of the clear water. Then I woke up.
The Holy Spirit gave me the immediate interpretation of this dream. God allowed me to go deep into His word and God had given me revelation-knowledge of the Lord. Now this knowledge of the Lord must be shared and it will cover the earth as waters cover the sea. (Isaiah 11:9) Praise the Lord. Amen.
In the fall of 2005, the Holy Spirit put in my heart that people must learn to fear God from His precepts. I studied Deuteronomy through Malachi. Next, Holy Spirit led me to prepare a review of the Kings of Israel and the Kings of Judah. This work is the Appendix of this book. Besides the Appendix of this book, the Holy Spirit lead me to prepare a special work titled, “Learning to Fear God”. This work is include in the book, titled, “Ending Terrorism In the United States: God Has Warned U. S.” After I completed these works, I had a dream/vision, the Holy Spirit took me in the Spirit, I was flying in the midst of the air, over trees, I went down to bless the land, then I went back into the air. This happened several times. Next, I flew into a large coliseum, I was suspended in the midst of the air, then I heard over the intercom, “The everlasting gospel will be preached here, we must fear God.” Then I woke up immediately. Listen carefully. This work brings us to Revelation 14:6-7. Amen.
Click below for more information on the book, “Edifying The Body of Christ: Unbinding the Strong Man”
http://www.america-america.org/id17.html
May God bless and keep you!
Prophet Elmore Richmond Jr.
Revelation 19:7 says that the Bride of Christ will make herself ready for the marriage of the Lamb of God. What will it take for the Church of our Living God to make herself ready for the marriage of the Lamb of God? For this to occur, we must address the great divide within the Body of Christ. However, to address this divide it will be quite painful for many because some have been spoiled and must decide if it is more important to serve the Living God than to hold onto pride, positions, degrees earned from bible colleges and other institutions, and traditions. This will not be easy for many; some will not repent and will hold on to the things of the world. Nevertheless, according to the word of God, the Bride of Christ will make herself ready for the marriage of the Lamb of God.
It is important that we acknowledge that something is wrong within the Body of Christ today. As we look, we can clearly see a great divide within the Body of Christ with people on both side of the spectrum who have gone through bible colleges and universities and earned PhD’s and DD’s, however they cannot fellowship with one another within the Body of Christ because of their doctrines. However, they all profess that they serve the same God in the name of JESUS.
Before, we examine what has created the divide, let look at what is required of us when we accept our vocations. According to Ephesians 4:1-3, we must walk worthy of the vocation wherewith we are called, with all lowliness and meekness, with longsuffering, forbearing one another in love; endeavouring to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace. Thus, we must not think too highly of ourselves.
Some do not believe that God has apostles and prophets today. However, according to Ephesians 4:11, Jesus gave some, apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers:” Why did Jesus give them to the church?
Ephesians 4:12-14 gives the reason. “For the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ: 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 fullness of Christ: That we henceforth be no more children, tossed to and fro, and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the sleight of men, and cunning craftiness, whereby they lie in wait to deceive.”
Today, we find the saints of God being tossed to and fro by every wind of doctrine. Why is this occurring? Answer - They have not received the knowledge of the Son of God unto a perfect man, unto the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ. Moreover, the truth is not being spoken in love by many teachers. Moreover, some of the teachers do not understand this truth – “Within Jesus dwelleth the fullness of the Godhead bodily and ye are complete in Him, which is the head of principality and power.” It is imperative that every believer understand this truth.
What are some of Satan methods to deceive in his battle plan? Answers: (1) Sleight of men and (2) Cunning craftiness. In summary, many are deceived through philosophy and vain deceit, after the tradition of men, after the rudiments of the world, and not after Christ. Let us identify some of specific sleights of men, cunning craftiness, traditions, vain deceit, and rudiments of the world.
(1) Sleight of Men – Skillful, quick and clever, uses gimmicks, readiness, ploy, wile, stratagem - (1) a scheme or trick for surprising or deceiving an enemy (2) any artifice or ruse devised to attain a goal or gain an advantage. We must fully explore this factor. Satan’s battle plan must counter the Word of God. Therefore, Satan must have teachers in universities and bible colleges who do not believe in the Word of God and have the love of money. Besides teachers who do not believe, Satan must employ teachers who have been deceived. Moreover, Satan must have bibles that are being used to support his mission. However, the bibles must contain truth and lies. However, the lies must be concealed – this is done by omitting words, replacing words, changing sentences – at first glance it must appears that these changes were done to help facilitate the flow of words. This is exactly what has happened today with some of the changes made in the NIVs and other versions of the bible. Some of the bible colleges and universities are recommending the NIVs instead of King James version of the Bible. This is a serious error in judgment. Below we can learn lessons from errors of these types of errors in the past.
“But they also have erred through wine, and through strong drink are out of the way; the priest and the prophet have erred through strong drink, they are swallowed up of wine, they are out of the way through strong drink; they err in vision, they stumble in judgment. For all tables are full of vomit and filthiness, so that there is no place clean.” (Isaiah 28:7-8) Isaiah continues this discussion with the following questions and declaration.
“Whom shall he teach knowledge? And whom shall he make to understand doctrine? Them that are weaned from the milk, and drawn from the breasts. For precept must be upon precept, precept upon precept; line upon line, line upon line; here a little, and there a little: For with stammering lips and another tongue will he speak to his people” (Isaiah 28:9-11)
Today, the church is experiencing the same thing; some of the ministers have drunk bad wine straight way. The wine in this text, you cannot purchase it at the local liquor store, however it can be purchase from most local Bible Book Stores. Luke 5:39 says, “No man also have drunk old wine straightway; desireth new: for he saith, the old is better.” Now here are some sobering thoughts. Some of the new translations of the Bible have altered the scriptures. These alterations include, deleting words and phrases, changing the text, amplifying the text without understanding the base scriptures, changing verb tenses, and the list goes on. Consequently, these are some of the unclean things found on the tables or used to prepare the bread. Unfortunately, some have drunk this bad wine straight way.
Then the problem is compounded, when some take scriptures and use them without lining the scriptures up as required: “Precept upon precept, precept upon precept, line upon line, line upon line, here a little and there a little.” Consequently, only vomit can come out of their mouths and not the word of God.
Here are a few examples of the alterations:
(1) John 3:16, some Bibles have removed the word “begotten.”
(2) John 12:28, some Bibles have removed the word “both.”
(3) John 12:28, some Bibles have changed the text From: “Then came there a voice from heaven, saying, I have both glorified it, and will glorify it again.” TO: “Then came there a voice from heaven saying, I have already glorified it, and will glorify it again.” However, this alteration has a great impact on understand the meaning of this scriptures.
(4) Ezekiel 19:10 says, “Thy mother is like a vine in thy blood, planted by the waters: …” Some Bibles have changed “is” to “was.”
(5) Isaiah 48:16 says, “Come ye near unto me, hear ye this; I have not spoken in secret from the beginning; from the time that it was, there am I: and now the Lord God, and his spirit, hath sent me.” The New Living Translation, by Tyndale changed the text to read. “Come closer and listen. I have always told you plainly what would happen so you would have no trouble understanding. And now the Sovereign Lord and his Spirit have sent me with this message:”
(6) Isaiah 28:7 says, “But they also have erred through wine, and through strong drink are out of the way; the priest and the prophet have erred through strong drink, they are out of the way through strong drink; they err in vision, they stumble in judgment.” The New Living Translation, by Tyndale changed the text to read as follows: “Now, however, Israel is being led by drunks! The priests and prophets reel and stagger from beer and wine. They make stupid mistakes as they carry out their responsibilities.”
I purchased a copy of the New Living Translation, by Tyndale in 2000, it did not take me long to discover that is bad wine. However, if I would have drunk it straight way, today I would be a drunkard and would not be able to rightly divide the word of truth because I would not have receive truth from that cup. Nevertheless, I would have proclaimed that I was correct and had the truth and would not desire to drink from any other cup. The Holy Bible, New Living Translation, by Tyndale is only one example, there are other translations that are wine or strong drink and out of the way of the truth, the truth in the cup that the Apostles of Jesus Christ drank from.
Surely, many tables are full of vomit and filthiness, and some ministries are drunk and full of pride, and have the love for money. Consequently, some do not have love for the truth and will reject the word of God and hold fast to their current practices. They attempt to prepare the Bread of God with the wrong recipes, bad ingredients in kitchens that are full of vomit and filthiness. Pride and the love of money will keep them from rechecking the recipe, getting rid of the bad ingredients and cleaning up the filth. Consequently, today many people who profess Christianity are drunk and do not really know who our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ is.
Satan has taken advantage of all of our mistakes and faults. According to 1 Thessalonians 2:9-11, For the ones who do not have love for truth, Satan will have all power and lying wonders. And the ones who do not love the truth will be in a state of deceivableness of unrighteousness, and God will send them strong delusion, that they should believe a lie: that they all might be damned who believed not the truth, but had pleasure in unrighteousness. Errors made in the past do not have to be our burdens. However, we must have love for the truth. We can be set free by repenting and following the word of God today.
(2) Rudiments of the world – rudiment is defined as something that is undeveloped or an imperfect form. Here is an example of a rudiment that is use by some. In Matthew 28:19 Jesus says, “Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost.” This is a command that was given, to carry out this command you must call upon the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Ghost. Some only will repeat the command and do not execute the command by calling on the name of “JESUS” as the apostles did in the book of Acts. Some do not call on the name of Jesus because they fail to understand scriptures. On the other hands, there are some that understand scriptures, however hold fast to traditions, or their pride prevent them from changing and serving God in a more perfect way.
We must understand Satan’s battle plan – Satan plan is to spoil the saints of God. Consequently, many have been spoiled through the philosophy and vain deceit, after traditions of men, after the rudiments of the world, and not after Christ. They have been spoiled because they have accepted philosophies, vain deceit and traditions of men and failed to study to show themselves approve unto God. Together, we must work to change this.
In 2 Timothy 2:15 a command was given to “Study to show thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.” It is unfortunate that some go to bible colleges, universities, and seminaries to study the word of God, but they find themselves learning in institutions whereby the philosophies of men are being taught instead of the word of God. Therefore, some saints limit their study to show themselves approved unto their professors instead of unto God. Then after graduating from these institutions, many are employed by institutions that hold fast to traditions and philosophies of men that are contrary to the word of God. We must work to end this destructive cycle and focus on Jesus’ will for His body, the Church. Jesus wants us to be made perfect in one. (John 17:23)
Therefore, we must work to that end. One of the things that we must do is to understand the Full Stature of Jesus Christ and understand that God is the Savior, there is only one Lord, and within Jesus dwelleth the fullness of the Godhead bodily. Zechariah 14:9 says, “And the LORD shall be king over all the earth: and in that day shall there be one LORD, and his name one.” We must understand what Isaiah 9:6 – “For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, The might God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace.” It is imperative that we understand that this says the name JESUS will be called: “The might God and The everlasting Father.” Please note the NIVs have removed the word “name” from this verse.
Jesus Christ was tasked to manifest the name of the Father, the only true God, as “JESUS” to those that were given him. Listen carefully. Isaiah 63:12 says that God led them by the hand of Moses … to make himself an everlasting name. Isaiah 63:16 says, “… Thou, O Lord, art our father, our redeemer; thy name is from everlasting.” Therefore, this means that God’s name now is not the same as it was in the beginning, but God made a new name for himself, an everlasting name. A name that is from everlasting; a name that is not from the beginning, but from everlasting until it was manifested and declared by Jesus Christ. Jesus Christ declared (made known) the Father’s name. (John 17:26) Jesus accomplished this task. The scribes, Pharisees, Sadducees and the Romans did not understand this truth; it is unfortunate today, there are many who profess to be Christians who still do not understand this truth because of the doctrines of men. At 2 Corinthians 4:3-4 it says, “But if our gospel be hid, it is hid to them that are lost: In whom the god of this world hath blinded the minds of them which believe not, lest the light of the glorious gospel of Christ, who is the image of God, should shine upon them.”
Before we leave this point, let us examine several more scriptures. In John 17:11-12, Jesus says, “And now I am no more in the world, but these are in the world, and I come to thee. Holy Father, keep through thine own name those whom thou has given me, that they may be one, as we are. While I was with them in the world, I kept them in thy name: those that thou gavest me I have kept, and none of them is lost, but the son of perdition; that the scripture might be fulfilled.” Remember in John 5:43, Jesus says, “I am come in my Father’s name, …”
The children of Israel defiled the Holy name of the Lord that Moses declared, by the abominations that they committed. (Isaiah 43:8) God said that he would sanctify his great name, which was profaned among the heathen, which ye have profaned in the midst of them; and the heathen shall know that I am the LORD, saith the Lord God, when I shall be sanctified in you before their eyes. (Ezekiel 36:23) In Ezekiel 39:7 God said, “I will make my holy name known in the midst of my people Israel; and I will not let them pollute my holy name anymore: and the heathen shall know that I am the LORD, the Holy One of Israel.” Jesus Christ was tasked to declare the name of the Father; Jesus Christ accomplished this task in the midst of the people of Israel.
In John 17:26, Jesus Christ says, “And I have declared unto them thy name, and will declare it: that the love wherewith thou hast loved me may be in them, and I in them.” At John 12:23 Jesus says, “The hour is come, that the Son of man should be glorified.” In John 12:28-29, Jesus says, “Father, glorify thy name.” “Then came there a voice from heaven, saying I have both glorified it, and will glorify it again. The people therefore, that stood by, and heard it, said that it thundered: other said, An angel spake to him.” The Father said I have both glorified it. This means the Father glorified the name “JESUS” as his name and he glorified the name “JESUS” for the redeemer. Listen. This was the fulfillment of the prophecy as recorded in Isaiah 63:14-16. God made himself a glorious name (Isaiah 63:14) and this glorious name is for Our LORD who is the Father and the Redeemer; this name is from everlasting (Isaiah 63:16). Praise God for this truth.
Listen carefully; this is what most theologians have missed. The Lord God Jehovah made a covenant with the Redeemer and with Zion and unto them that turn from their transgression in Jacob.
Isaiah 59:20-21 says, “And the Redeemer shall come to Zion, and unto them that turn from transgression in Jacob, said the LORD. As for me, this is my covenant with them, saith the LORD; My spirit that is upon thee, and my words which I have put in thy mouth, shall not depart out of thy mouth, nor out of the mouth of thy seed, nor out of the mouth of thy seed’s seed, said the LORD, from henceforth and for ever.”
Isaiah Chapter 59 explains how the iniquities of Israel had separated them from God and how God hid his face from them because of their sins. Isaiah 59:15-17 states, “… it displeased him (God) that there was no judgment … For he (God) put on righteousness as a breastplate, and an helmet of salvation upon his head; and he put on the garments of vengeance of clothing, and was clad with zeal as a cloak.” Isaiah 61:10 says that God has clothed me (the Redeemer) with the garments of salvation, and he hath covered me with the robe of righteousness, as a bridegroom decked himself with ornaments …” Therefore, it is the righteous of the Redeemer that must go forth as brightness and it is the salvation of the Redeemer that must go forth as a lamp that burneth.
Isaiah 62:11 supports this assertion, “Behold, the LORD hath proclaimed unto the end of the world, “Say ye to the daughter of Zion, Behold, thy salvation cometh; behold, his reward is with him, and his work before him.” Thy Salvation is our Lord and Saviour, Jesus Christ, the Redeemer.
Who is the Redeemer? Let us see who the Redeemer says he is; you must understand this. “Come ye near unto me, hear ye this; I have not spoken in secret from the beginning; from the time that it was, there am I: and now the LORD God, and his spirit, hath sent me. Thus saith the LORD, thy Redeemer, the Holy One of Israel; I am the LORD thy God which teacheth thee to profit which leadeth thee by the way that thou shouldest go. O that thou hadst hearkened to my commandments! Then had thy peace been as a river, and thy righteousness as the waves of the sea:” (Isaiah 48:16-18) The Redeemer is the LORD thy God, praise the Lord for this truth. Now listen carefully to the Spirit of the Lord as you read the next paragraph.
Isaiah 44:6 says, “Thus saith the Lord the King of Israel, and his redeemer the Lord of hosts; I am the first, and I am the last; and beside me there is no God.” Read it again. Who said, “I am the first, and I am the last; and beside me there is no God?” Answer: Both, The Lord the King of Israel, and his redeemer the Lord of hosts. “Beside me there is no God.” “Me” includes both, The Lord the King of Israel (The Father) and his redeemer the Lord of hosts, the Savior. This is key to understanding who Jesus Christ is as you search the scriptures. The name “JESUS” is the redeemer’s new name and the Father’s new name – the “Father and his redeemer” are one.
Many do not understand that the Father tasked Jesus to declare His name. This declared and glorious name is JESUS. Jesus declared it, and then, the Father glorified it for both, the Son and Himself. The name is from everlasting until it, was declared and glorified.
Many do not understand this statement, “A little while, and ye shall not see me: and again, a little while, and ye shall see me, because I go to the Father.” (John 16:16) It is very important to understand this statement. Jesus explains what will happen when he goes back to the Father and the affect of the name of Jesus.
Jesus says, “And in that day ye shall ask me nothing. Verily, verily, I say unto you, Whatsoever ye shall ask the Father in my name, he will give it you. Hitherto have ye asked nothing in my name: ask, and ye shall receive, that your joy may be full. These things have I spoken unto you in proverbs: but the time cometh, when I shall no more speak unto you in proverbs, but I shall show you plainly of the Father. At that day ye shall ask in my name: and I say not unto you, that I will pray the Father for you: For the Father himself loveth you, because ye have loved me, and have believed that I came out from God. I came forth from the Father, and am come into the world: again, I leave the world, and go to the Father.” (John 16:23-28)
Listen carefully to what Jesus said about his ascension to the Father. In John 6:62-63 Jesus said, “What and if ye shall see the Son of man ascend up where he was before? It is the spirit that quickeneth; the flesh profiteth nothing: the words that I speak unto you, they are spirit, and they are life.” Here we can see that it is not about the flesh, however it is about the Word of God. “In the beginning was The Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. The same was in the beginning with God. JESUS is the WORD; the WORD is spirit.
After Jesus ascension to heaven, where He was before where did he go? According to Revelation 22:1-3, there is only one throne in heaven, the throne of God and of the Lamb. In Revelation 4:1-2 John writes, After this I looked, and, behold, a door was opened in heaven: and the first voice which I heard was as it were of a trumpet, talking with me; which said, Come up hither and I will show thee things which must be hereafter. And immediately I was in the spirit: and, behold, a throne was set in heaven, and one sat on the throne. Revelation 7:9-17 explains the great multitude that gathered before the throne of God. Revelation 7:17 says, “For the Lamb which is in the midst of the throne shall feed them…” In Revelation 19:13, the Lamb’s name is called The Word of God.” The Lamb had on his vesture and on his thigh a name written, KING OF KINGS, AND LORD OF LORDS. (Revelation 19:16)
According to Revelation 19:12, the Lamb had a name written that no man knew, but himself. In Revelation 3:12 Jesus says, that he would write the name of His God and His new name upon him that overcometh. Revelation 14:1-5 explains that first fruits that were redeemed from the earth had the Father’s name written in their foreheads.
Revelation chapter 21 explains that John saw a new heaven and a new earth; and first heaven and the first earth had passed away. John saw the holy city, new Jerusalem, coming down from God out of heaven, prepared as a bride adorned for her husband. Revelation chapter 22 further explains that the throne of God and of the Lamb shall be in it; and his servants shall serve him: And they shall see his face; and his name shall be in their foreheads. Zechariah prophesied, “And the Lord shall be king over all the earth: in that day shall there be one Lord, and His name one.” (Zechariah 14:9)
Bridging The Divide
Today, there is division within the Church. Divided we cannot stand. However, within God’s House, God allows the wheat and tares to grow together and then separates them at harvest time. (Matthew 13:30) But God’s will is to have all men to be saved, and to come unto the knowledge of the truth. (1 Timothy 2:4) “Therefore, Jesus Christ has given some apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers; for the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry, and for the edifying of the body of Christ: 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 fullness of Christ: That we henceforth be no more children tossed to and fro, and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the sleight of men, and cunning craftiness, whereby they lie in wait to deceive: But speaking the truth in love, may grow up into him in all things, which is the head even Christ:” (Ephesians 4:11-15)
Like teachers, pastors, and evangelists were given to the Church, Jesus Christ gave some apostles and prophets until 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 fullness of Christ. The church has not reach these objectives: (1) Unity of Faith and (2) The knowledge of the Son of God, unto a perfect man, unto the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ.
However, there are some that do not believe that there are apostles or prophets among us today. Scriptures do not support this disbelief. Satan continues to use various tools such as denominations to weaken the body of Christ.
Denominations foster division because its focus is to distinguish one group of Christians from another group of Christians. There are however differences of administrations and diversities of operations, but the same spirit. Satan has been able to use denominations as one of his devices, which is a crafty scheme; a trick to divide and destroy the body of Christ. To overcome this device, the body of Christ must effect God’s plan for edification, which includes apostles, and prophets as outlined in the scriptures. (Ephesians 4:11-12)
God wants us to come in the unity of the faith, and the knowledge of the Son of God, unto a perfect man, unto the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ. (Ephesians 4:13) However, without the Holy Spirit leading us to all truth it is impossible to get to this knowledge of truth. The Holy Spirit must become the teacher. If not, many will continue to be tossed to and fro, and carried about with every wind of doctrine.
Brothers and Sisters, God has invested a lot in us. 2 Corinthians 4:7 says, “… we have this treasure in earthen vessels, that the excellency of the power may be of God, and not of us.” All power and authority in heaven and on earth have been given to our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. Jesus has given us the power and authority to use His Name. We have been given super-natural power. Therefore, we must stop and take a real look at who we are in Christ Jesus.
We are not only made in the image of God. For the ones who believe and have accepted Jesus Christ as Lord and Saviour, we all have become Holy Temples of God, each and every one of us. As children of God, Jesus has given us the power and authority to do supernatural things in His Name. When you pray in the name of Jesus, it is just like Jesus is praying. When you speak the word and cast out demons in the name of Jesus, it is just as Jesus Himself spoke the word. When you lay hands on the sick, it is just as if Jesus Himself laid His hands on the sick and they recovered. We have been given power and God has given the command to use this power for his glory. However, most have failed to seize this power.
Each one of us who believes and keeps the commands that Jesus gave us is a Holy Temple of God, with supernatural powers to operate in the name of Jesus Christ. Yet we are still members of a bigger body. We are members of the Body of Christ. Ephesians 4:16 says that the whole body fitly joined together and compacted by which every joint supplieth, according to the effectual working in the measure of every part, maketh increase of the body unto the edifying of itself in love. It is so important for us to clearly understand whose we are and our relationship with one another. God wants us to realize that truly we are members of the body of Christ with special work assigned to each and every one of us. We must work together carrying out our tasks to support one another. Moreover, our love for one another serves as the fuel that keeps it alive and growing. The Book of Romans, chapter twelve, explains how we should use the gifts that God has given us. The book of Ephesians, chapter four explains our relationship with one another.
A MESSAGE TO THE CALLED, CHOSEN, AND THE FAITHFUL
ACTIONS THAT WE MUST TAKE TODAY
To the called, chosen, and the faithful, we must learn from these reports, the lessons learned and take heed. These report cards were written for us to examine what has gone wrong and to repent and take all corrective actions. In summary here are the things that we must do today:
(1) Remember from where we have fallen. Chapter one of this book, gave a detailed exposition on where we have fallen from and looks into the future. It points out that the everlasting covenant will be broken and then final judgment will come. We must learn to fear God from the precepts of God and not from the precepts of man. We have included an appendix to this book that examines the history of the kings of Israel and Judah. We can learn from their errors.
(2) Repent and return to the first work. We must preach the gospel of Jesus Christ to all creatures throughout the world and ensure that His lambs, His sheep, His sheep, are properly fed the gospel of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. We must take a close look at all of our activities or (works) and make an evaluation to see how much time we are spending on the first works. Moreover, we must pay special attention to what Jesus told the church of Thyatira, that they were spending more time doing the last works than the first works.
(3) We must not follow the doctrines of Balaam.
(4) We must not follow the doctrines of Nicolaitanes to include the beliefs of the Sadducees and the Pharisees. We must understand that the beliefs and practices of these groups influenced the doctrines of the Roman Catholics. We must get rid of all documents that do not align with the Word of God.
(5) We must not follow the practices of Jezebel.
(6) We must be watchful and strengthen the things that remain.
(7) Adhere to the counseling that was given to the Church of the Laodiceans and repent and be zealous for God.
(8) Remember His name. His Name is JESUS; Hold fast to His Name JESUS. Remember His name is the Name that is in the phrase, “In the Name of the Father, Son, and Holy Ghost,” There is no power in the phrase, but the power is in the Name, “JESUS.” The name “JESUS” is above all other names.
STATUS REPORT ON THE BRIDE OF CHRIST – 2007
(Below is an Excerpt from one of my latest books, “Edifying the Body of Christ: Unbinding the Strong Man”)
Just as Jesus gave a report card on the Seven Churches to John, God has provided a similar report regarding the Bride of Christ today. We can learn from the lessons learned as outlined in Reports to the Seven Churches. We can use these lessons to address our problems today. Below is a summary of the revelation regarding the Bride of Christ that the Holy Spirit revealed to me on July 23, 2004.
On July 23, 2004, God showed me the Bride of Christ as she was falling onto broken scattered glass. After she fell, I took her by the hand and helped her onto her feet. The Bride of Christ had cuts and bruises on her backside. The next thing that happened, I commenced turning on a water control valve. The valve was connected to a water hose and the water was running over her back. At one point the water got too hot, then the Bride cried out for me to lower the temperature. I lowered the temperature; and the Bride continued to be hosed off. Then I woke up.
The Holy Spirit showed me this after I had monitored programs on TBN, Daystar, The Church Channel and The WORD Network. Of special interest were programs focusing on the state of America, amending the Constitution of the United States to protect the union of marriage, and support for the war on terrorism. Moreover, after I saw a program on July 22, 2004 on Trinity Broadcasting Network (TBN), I prayed and asked God what He wanted me to do because God has given me a different message for the Church? I asked God to order my footsteps. Listen carefully.
The Bride of Christ fell onto broken scattered glass. Now she has cuts and bruises on her backside. God wants the Bride of Christ healed without spot, wrinkle, blemish or any such thing. I clearly understood the vision.
The water: The water was the Word of God, living water. Now I realize the water that was flowing through the hose running over the back of the Bride of Christ was the word of God contained in this book.
The water control valve: This device was used to temper the Word of God with His Love. Now I realize why the Bride of Christ cried out when the water got too hot. The Bride was crying out because the Spirit of Truth brought revelations that clearly showed how the Bride had been deceived. These revelations that caused most of the pain are regarding the doctrines on “Holy Trinity” and baptism.
Why did the Bride Fall? She fell as a confused person because individuals at all levels have allowed their feelings and emotions to affect their messages; these individuals failed to be sober and have got caught up in a debate which is a delusion sent from God. As God wrote to Ephraim, the same message is for the Church today. “But they also have erred through wine, and through strong drink are out of the way; the priest and the prophet have erred through strong drink, they are swallowed up of wine, they are out of the way through strong drink; they err in vision, they stumble in judgment. For all tables are full of vomit and filthiness, so that there is no place clean. Whom shall he teach knowledge? And whom shall he make to understand doctrine? Them that are weaned from the milk, and drawn from the breasts. For precept must be upon precept; precept upon precept, line upon line, line upon line, and here a little, and there a little.” (Isaiah 28:7-10) As you know when programs are aired on TBN the entire Body of Christ is impacted; surely this is the reason the Bride of Christ fell as a confused person onto broken scattered glass.
The Broken Scattered Glass: The broken scattered glass represents the doctrines that are taught that consist of philosophy, vain deceit, after the traditions of men, after the rudiments of the world and not after Christ. Please note, the glass was not part of the foundation, however, the broken scattered glass was lying on top of the foundation.
What does God want me to do? God wants me to deliver the message He gave me in 2001 to His people in the United States and to deliver this most recent message to his apostles, prophets/prophetess, evangelists, pastors, and teachers. He wants me to share this work with the body of Christ throughout the world. The message to the United States is recorded in a book titled, “Ending Terrorism in The United States: God Has Warned U. S.”
What the Church must do? The Church must repent and do the first work. Effect the edification process as outlined in Ephesians 4:11-16. Then we can work to ensure that the Bride of Christ is healed and made ready for the marriage. Then we will be ready for spiritual warfare. The called, chosen, and faithful must use all of our gifts in love to effect the edification process. We must repent and return to the first work; we must preach the gospel of Jesus Christ to all creatures throughout the world and ensure that His lambs, His sheep, and His sheep (pastors and teachers) are properly fed the gospel of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ.
The called, chosen, and faithful: The called, chosen, and faithful must work together in love and remove the broken glass. Therefore, the called, chosen, and faithful must work together and get rid of all commandments of men and traditions that are contrary to the word of God and that are taught to the body of Christ for doctrines. It is imperative that we work to this end because we are connected unto one another; there is only one Body of Christ.
God has given this book, “Edifying The Body Of Christ: Unbinding the Strong Man” to this generation to help commence the edification process for the unity of the faith, and the knowledge of the Son of God, unto a perfect man, unto the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ. Now God is calling for His true apostles, His true prophets, evangelists, pastors, and teachers, to work on one accord, to perfect the saints, do work of the ministry, and to edify the body of Christ. God is faithful to all of His promises. The Bride will be healed without spot, blemish, wrinkle or any such thing. Praise the Lord. But there are many who have been deceived and will continue to fail to study to show themselves approved unto God. Consequently, they will not be ready on the day of the Lord.
Revelation-Knowledge of the Lord Going Forth
On or about September 20, 2004, after I received revelation knowledge from the book of Malachi regarding God’s desire from us, an offering in righteousness, I dreamed a dream that God gave me. First, I saw myself diving into a swimming pool; the pool contained clear water. I went deep into the pool. Next I saw myself coming up out of the pool. Then I saw myself standing in front of the pool. As I stood in front of the pool, I watched clear water flow from the pool and cover the land. This was a beautiful sight; there appeared to be an endless flow of the clear water. Then I woke up.
The Holy Spirit gave me the immediate interpretation of this dream. God allowed me to go deep into His word and God had given me revelation-knowledge of the Lord. Now this knowledge of the Lord must be shared and it will cover the earth as waters cover the sea. (Isaiah 11:9) Praise the Lord. Amen.
In the fall of 2005, the Holy Spirit put in my heart that people must learn to fear God from His precepts. I studied Deuteronomy through Malachi. Next, Holy Spirit led me to prepare a review of the Kings of Israel and the Kings of Judah. This work is the Appendix of this book. Besides the Appendix of this book, the Holy Spirit lead me to prepare a special work titled, “Learning to Fear God”. This work is include in the book, titled, “Ending Terrorism In the United States: God Has Warned U. S.” After I completed these works, I had a dream/vision, the Holy Spirit took me in the Spirit, I was flying in the midst of the air, over trees, I went down to bless the land, then I went back into the air. This happened several times. Next, I flew into a large coliseum, I was suspended in the midst of the air, then I heard over the intercom, “The everlasting gospel will be preached here, we must fear God.” Then I woke up immediately. Listen carefully. This work brings us to Revelation 14:6-7. Amen.
Click below for more information on the book, “Edifying The Body of Christ: Unbinding the Strong Man”
http://www.america-america.org/id17.html
May God bless and keep you!
Prophet Elmore Richmond Jr.
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