WHY I AM SPECIAL

DECEMBER 24, 2011
The SPEACIALNESS of being loved by God is not that I am so lovely or lovable, since I am not, but that He loves me because He is so loving. In fact, God is LOVE.

His love for me is not diminished by the fact that it embraces the whole world, rather, it is magnified in my understanding because His love for the whole world includes me.

Joh 3:16
(16) For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.

Upward and Onward in Jesus,
Pastor David L. Gould

PLAYING THROUGH A SLUMP

DECEMBER 22, 2011
I have thought about people who get on a loosing streak.
Sometimes it is not the person's fault that they lose.
Sometimes they bounce back, only to lose again, maybe several in succession, but they hold on to a Never Give Up, mentality.
They lose so many games it doesn't matter if they do win.
Maybe they are surrounded with teammates who don't care about winning anymore.
Maybe no one expects them to win and no one faults them for loosing again.

Do you know what kind of dedication it takes to give it your best when it seems there is nothing to win.

And yes, I am talking about life, not sports.

Launch Out and Hold Fast,
Pastor David L. Gould

TWO SAD SITUATIONS

DECEMBER 22, 2011
Two people for whom I feel sorry.
I. The person who did not grow up in a New Testament church that teaches the pure/powerful word of God, where the people walk in the purity and power of the Holy Spirit.

II. The person who grew up in a doctrinally sound and dynamic New Testament church, but resists and rejects the light and life it offers.

Possible Scenarios for Group #I.
The person who has not grown up in a New Testament environment and never finds or experiences such a church.

The person who has not grown up in a New Testament environment, finds such a church and then turns from it.

The person who has not grown up in a New Testament environment, finds such a church and becomes part of that body.

The person who has not grown up in a New Testament environment, finds such a church, becomes part of that body and throws himself into the will of God with total abandon, thereby redeeming lost time and opportunity and becoming part of the glory that defines such a church.

ALMOST HEAVEN
Though such a church is not heaven, my studies, experience and observation agree that it is like the vestibule of heaven, the outpost of heaven, the closest thing to heaven in this world.
It seems more of a dream than a reality.
It is a rarity, encountered by very, very few people.
It is the very kind of church everyone needs, whether single or married, whether parent or childless, whether young or old.
It is the very kind of church where parents need to raise their children, and so much the more as The Day is approaching.

IT IS GOD'S PLAN
I am sold on the importance of the Church, and the local church in particular, because it is God's plan. Two institutions of God are the family and the Church. They go together. No apology, no excuse, just fact.

ANSWER THIS QUESTION
Let me repeat an old adage: What kind of church would my church be, if all of the members were just like me?

In 2012, be part of a New Testament church. Be an active part of a New Testament church. Be a vital, exemplary part of a New Testament church, “and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it.”

Launch Out and Hold Fast,
Pastor David L. Gould

GOD'S GRACE AND GOOD WORKS

DECEMBER 21, 2011
Through His Holy Spirit, God gives us grace that not only saves us from sin, but equips us for every good work. Jesus, by the power of the Holy Spirit, went about doing good (Acts 10:38). Those who have grace go about doing good; those who just talk about grace, just go about. (see verses in comment below).

GOD'S ABOUNDING GRACE ENABLES ABOUNDING GOOD WORKS
2 Corinthians 9:8
(8) And God is able to make all grace abound toward you; that ye, always having all sufficiency in all things, may abound to every good work:

SPIRITUAL FULLNESS RESULTS IN GOOD WORKS
Colossians 1:9-11
(9) For this cause we also, since the day we heard it, do not cease to pray for you, and to desire that ye might be filled with the knowledge of his will in all wisdom and spiritual understanding;
(10) That ye might walk worthy of the Lord unto all pleasing, being fruitful in every good work, and increasing in the knowledge of God;
(11) Strengthened with all might, according to his glorious power, unto all patience and longsuffering with joyfulness;

GOD'S GRACE ESTABLISHES US IN GOOD WORKS
2 Thessalonians 2:16-17
(16) Now our Lord Jesus Christ himself, and God, even our Father, which hath loved us, and hath given us everlasting consolation and good hope through grace,
(17) Comfort your hearts, and stablish you in every good word and work.

GOOD WORKS, A WAY OF LIFE
1 Timothy 5:10
(10) Well reported of for good works; if she have brought up children, if she have lodged strangers, if she have washed the saints' feet, if she have relieved the afflicted, if she have diligently followed every good work.

TURNING FROM SIN ESSENTIAL TO GOOD WORKS
2 Timothy 2:19, 21
(19) Nevertheless the foundation of God standeth sure, having this seal, The Lord knoweth them that are his. And, Let every one that nameth the name of Christ depart from iniquity.
(21) If a man therefore purge himself from these, he shall be a vessel unto honour, sanctified, and meet for the master's use, and prepared unto every good work.

THOSE WITHOUT GOOD WORKS ARE WITHOUT GOD
Titus 1:15-16
(15) Unto the pure all things are pure: but unto them that are defiled and unbelieving is nothing pure; but even their mind and conscience is defiled.
(16) They profess that they know God; but in works they deny him, being abominable, and disobedient, and unto every good work reprobate.

BELIEVERS ARE CALLED TO EVERY GOOD WORK
Titus 3:1
(1) Put them in mind to be subject to principalities and powers, to obey magistrates, to be ready to every good work,

THE RESURRECTED CHRIST MAKES US PERFECT IN GOOD WORKS
Hebrews 13:20-21
(20) Now the God of peace, that brought again from the dead our Lord Jesus, that great shepherd of the sheep, through the blood of the everlasting covenant,
(21) Make you perfect in every good work to do his will, working in you that which is wellpleasing in his sight, through Jesus Christ; to whom be glory for ever and ever. Amen.

Upward and Onward in Jesus,
Pastor David L. Gould

TRAVELER, RESCUER and THE BRIDGE

DECEMBER 20, 2011
The night was black, the bridge was out and the gorge was deep and deadly.
Already,  great numbers of people had plunged to their destruction.
Rescuer hoped he would save others from such a fate.
As Traveler approached, Rescuer raised a warning. Traveler waved politely, but continued.
Rescuer screamed in greater alarm, only to be rebuffed by Traveler.
Rescuer cried Traveler's name in horror, but Travelers spewed a torrent of verbal indignation at Rescuer.
Suddenly the hopeless and helpless screams of Rescuer joined with the vindictive cursing of Traveler as he flung himself into eternal, terrifying oblivion.
Rescuer lovingly appeals to other Travelers, "Please let Jesus come into your heart."

Launch Out and Hold Fast,
Pastor David L. Gould

WORTH AND WORTHINESS

DECEMBER 20, 2011
My friend David Smith articulated something I was thinking about recently. The (worth) "value of a thing" is determined by "what the buyer is willing to pay." Since God has purchased us with His own blood (Ac. 20:28), we are made to be of infinite value. On the other hand, we choose to prove our worthiness (after salvation) by self denial and faithful obedience. (see passages below).

Ephesians 4:1-3
(1) I therefore, the prisoner of the Lord, beseech you that ye walk worthy of the vocation wherewith ye are called,
(2) With all lowliness and meekness, with longsuffering, forbearing one another in love;
(3) Endeavouring to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace.
Colossians 1:10
(10) That ye might walk worthy of the Lord unto all pleasing, being fruitful in every good work, and increasing in the knowledge of God;
1 Thessalonians 2:12
(12) That ye would walk worthy of God, who hath called you unto his kingdom and glory.
Revelation 3:4
(4) Thou hast a few names even in Sardis which have not defiled their garments; and they shall walk with me in white: for they are worthy.

Someone responded to these thoughts with a comment concerning, "salvation by works," to which I answered.
IT IS INTERESTING...
My post says NOTHING about being saved by works. I was not even thinking about "works salvation" (in which I do NOT believe). I was thinking about salvation that works (which is the only kind of salvation).

The passages in my comment (which are quotes from God Himself), address part of the human side of salvation (which Calvinists claim do not exist).

IT IS ALSO INTERESTING...
Those who believe in sinning religion (Calvinism) CLAIM to hold GRACE in high regard, yet the grace of God they proclaim does not separate a person from committing sins, much less enable them to be good and do good (which is the minimum of salvation). Those of us who believe that God's grace is able to deliver from all sin recognize that it is grace that enables and empowers us to be holy (as He is holy) and to do righteousness (thus being righteous, even as God is righteous). Yet, when we give God the glory for His great grace, we are nailed with "saved by works."

Sinning religion has become so widespread that people from all theological backgrounds (notice I did not say, "all people") associate the human ability to do good (by the grace of God) with "works salvation."

It is God Who gives us our worth. It is we ourselves who choose to either live worthily (by God's grace) or unworthily (by our presumption).

Launch Out and Hold Fast,
Pastor David L. Gould

WHAT TO DO AT 10 TO 0

DECEMBER 19, 2011
Last Friday, while playing Pickleball, I had a couple of really close, come-from-behind games. One of the games was all but lost to a very good team. We fell behind 10 to 0, in a game that only goes to 11. Usually that would spell doom for the losing team. But my teammate said, "we've got them where we want them," and since I figure anything less than 11 is where I want them, we gave it our best. We started scoring until we won the game, 12 to 10. (you have to win by 2).

NEVER GIVE UP.
Pickleball does not matter, life does.
NEVER GIVE UP.

Upward and Onward in Christ,
Pastor David L. Gould

IT WAS NIGHT BEFORE CHRISTMAS (by dlg)

IT WAS NIGHT BEFORE CHRISTMAS

Original poem by Pastor David L. Gould
December 20, 2002

It was NIGHT before Christmas, I'd finished my task,
I had gotten their presents, whatever they'd asked;
Now I'd sit by the fire and then kick off my shoes;
Maybe I could catch me a forty wink snooze.

But I wasn't finished, with things left to do,
Like assemble computers and take out old Blue,
And wrapping some presents.........; I wished I were done,
Because whatever I do, just isn't fun.

It will take me all year to pay for this stuff,
And making a living has gotten so rough,
My wife and myself are both having to slave,
While our marriage is slipping into the grave

I'll just take a drink, it should ease me of pain,
And drown out her whining that pounds on my brain...
I've given my all, I'm worn to a frazzle,
Marriage and fam'ly have long lost their dazzle.

I thought that by now I'd have reached all my dreams,
With my houses and cars and boats and my schemes.
But I'm empty inside, there's no peace and no cheer,
And all I can see is another dark year.

I turned on the CD, I wanted to block
Out the thoughts of my life being dashed on the rocks.
My kids had left in some songs of the season,
About Jesus being the holiday's reason.

I smirked as I heard the familiar old songs,
Of One born to rid us of all of our wrongs.
About a dark world all wrapped up in sin's night,
About a star leading men with its bright light.

I sat in my chair as I started to muse,
About a Boy Baby, Who came to the Jews.
He came not to live, but to die on a Cross,
And trade me His treasures for all of my loss.

I heard the sweet message which angels had told,
To shepherds awatching o'er sheep in the cold,
And how in the stable of Bethlehem's Inn,
They found God's Own Lamb, Who would take away sin.

At some point the CD had started to play,
Songs about wise men who had lived far away,
But then they had traveled to worship this King;
Gifts of great value to Him they did bring.

I remembered the story of Herod so vile,
He sent out his soldiers to kill the Christ child;
He killed little boys, to serve his own plan,
He would not be conquered by this Son of Man.

I started to weep as it dawned upon me,
I had shut out the Child in spite of His plea.
I too, had decided to kill off the One,
Who loved me to death, God's Only Son.

Christmas was not to be found at the store,
Or corked in a bottle or on the dance floor,
It's letting Lord Jesus come into your heart,
Forgive all your sins as He gives a new start.

I bowed my poor soul as I knelt on the floor,
And asked Him to enter my life evermore.
I joined with the ones who had welcomed His birth,
And with a great throng who discovered His worth.

I now know the meaning of that special day,
Not tinsel or Santa or money I pay;
But love and contentment, and peace in my heart;
My past is forgiven, I have a new start.

It was NIGHT before Christmas, until the Son shone,
Out of His manger like a glorious throne;
I understand now what they meant way back then,
When they said Peace on Earth and Good Will to Men.

Merry Christmas,

Pastor David L. Gould

OBEDIENCE TO SOUND DOCTRINE MATTERS

DECEMBER 17, 2011
Believe and Obey
God makes it possible for us to stop serving sin and start serving Him when we obey from the heart, sound doctrine. This means we should make sure we are hearing and following sound doctrine. Romans 6:17 says, "But God be thanked, that ye were the servants of sin, but ye have obeyed from the heart that form of doctrine which was delivered you."

Your Course Determines Your Destination
What you believe about the foundation truths of salvation does matter. If you believe a lie, you will live a lie; if you live a lie, you will die a lie; if you die a lie you will go to hell. This is why it is important to follow and submit to the teaching of those who are living and teaching sound doctrine.

Romans 6:11-22
(11) Likewise reckon ye also yourselves to be dead indeed unto sin, but alive unto God through Jesus Christ our Lord.
(12) Let not sin therefore reign in your mortal body, that ye should obey it in the lusts thereof.
(13) Neither yield ye your members as instruments of unrighteousness unto sin: but yield yourselves unto God, as those that are alive from the dead, and your members as instruments of righteousness unto God.
(14) For sin shall not have dominion over you: for ye are not under the law, but under grace.
(15) What then? shall we sin, because we are not under the law, but under grace? God forbid.
(16) Know ye not, that to whom ye yield yourselves servants to obey, his servants ye are to whom ye obey; whether of sin unto death, or of obedience unto righteousness?
(17) But God be thanked, that ye were the servants of sin, but ye have obeyed from the heart that form of doctrine which was delivered you.
(18) Being then made free from sin, ye became the servants of righteousness.
(19) I speak after the manner of men because of the infirmity of your flesh: for as ye have yielded your members servants to uncleanness and to iniquity unto iniquity; even so now yield your members servants to righteousness unto holiness.
(20) For when ye were the servants of sin, ye were free from righteousness.
(21) What fruit had ye then in those things whereof ye are now ashamed? for the end of those things is death.
(22) But now being made free from sin, and become servants to God, ye have your fruit unto holiness, and the end everlasting life.

Hebrews 13:17
(17) Obey them that have the rule over you, and submit yourselves: for they watch for your souls, as they that must give account, that they may do it with joy, and not with grief: for that is unprofitable for you.

1 Peter 5:5
(5) Likewise, ye younger, submit yourselves unto the elder. Yea, all of you be subject one to another, and be clothed with humility: for God resisteth the proud, and giveth grace to the humble.

Upward and Onward in Christ,
Pastor David L. Gould

NEW HEAVEN, EARTH AND JERUSALEM

DECEMBER 15, 2011

This article is not intended to be an exhaustive study. These are just a few thoughts that came to my mind when I read a news article about a newly discovered object in the sky.

EYE IN THE SKY

A recent report said astronomers may have discovered an "earth like" planet about 600 light years (3600 trillion miles) away. I don't believe they claim to have actually viewed or photographed it, but rather they base their calculations of the planet's existence, location and characteristics, on their observations of other known space objects and attending activities in that region of the sky. Supposedly this other earth is about two times the size of our planet, and possibly has plenty of water, and it may have a temperature of 72 degrees, therefore might be able to support life, with nothing like it any closer to us. Though I do not know whether their claims are accurate, I am not adverse to such claims. If their calculations are true and accurate, then I guess it is also possible that the "earth" planet does not even exist today, since the image they have occurred hundreds of years ago..

MADE ME THINK

I am not a sign seeker, but I am interested when events take place which seem to have Biblical implications. This report caused me to think about a Biblical concept. The Bible prophesies the end of this world and the arrival of a new world. I was intrigued by some of the information relating to the New Earth. This article does not propose that this astronomical discovery has any Biblical significance. I simply am making some observations.

A New Earth? What could it mean? What does the Bible say about a New Earth? What will happen to this earth? Does God destroy His creation? One, (maybe two) occasion(s) when God destroyed the earth.

TWO WORLDS DESTROYED?

First, a possible scenario. The Bible tells us that there may have been a previous planet (Earth) in God's heavens (Ge. 1:1) that was destroyed (Ge. 1:2), as a result of war between God and the fallen angels (led by Satan, Is. 14:12-15; Ez. 28:13-19; Lk. 10:18; Re. 12:4). This previous "earth" was NOT inhabited by human-like creatures, but was apparently the domain of Lucifer and the angels, until one third of them followed a fallen Lucifer in a rebellion against God. (Which reminds me, "sin make you stupid"). At that time the earth (which was not created "formless and void," Is. 45:18), became formless and void (Ge. 1:2). God then cast Satan and his followers down to a war torn world. It was from this chaos that God restored order and established life in six days (Ge. 1:2-31). The six days of creation have to do with our world and our part of heaven (our solar system).

Second, an historical fact. The Bible tells us that God spent six days creating (from nothing) and making (forming from pre-existent components) the earth and all that is in it. Because of wide spread and deep rooted rebellion, God destroyed the earth and all of its inhabitants with a flood of water, except for Noah and seven members of his family.

A LOOK BACK

In Genesis we find the creation of Adam and Eve (Ge. 2:7), their fall into sin (Ge. 3:1-6), God's plan of salvation prophesied (Ge. 3:15) and redemptive imagery (Ge. 3:21; 4:1, 25). In those early times of the human race, there were those who followed God (Enoch [5:18-24]; the sons of God [6:2]; Noah [6:8-9]) and those who did not (Cain [4:8]; Lamech [4:19, 24]; the daughters of men[6:2]). As fewer men followed God, sin increased to the point that God destroyed the world with a flood (Ge. 6:11-13), saving only Noah, his wife, their 3 sons and their 3 wives. It was a new beginning for the entire creation, animate and inanimate, since the earth went through cataclysmic changes, environmentally, sociologically, botanically, zoologically, geologically and atmosphericly.

Therefore, the earth has been destroyed at least one time (possibly 2 times), yet God had a plan that would restore the earth and redeem fallen mankind. What does the Bible have to say about the future of mankind and the earth?

A LOOK FORWARD

Order of Coming Events...

1. Resurrection/Rapture (1 Co. 15:21-24, 49-55; 1 Th. 4:14-18). This can happen at any time.

2. In Heaven, Bema Seat Judgment *1 Co, 5:10). On Earth, Tribulation (Re. 5-18). This will happen after the Rapture and will last for seven years.

3. Return of Christ (Re. 19:11-21), Satan Bound for Thousand Years (Re. 20:1-3). This will happen after the seven years of Tribulation.

4. Judgment of the Nations (Mt. 25:31-46). This will happen at the time of Christ's physical return to earth.

5. Christ 1,000 Year Reign (Re. 20:4). This will begin at the time of Christ's physical return to earth.

6. Satan Loosed (Re. 20:7-9), Final Conflict (Re. 20:7-9), Satan Into Lake of Fire (Re. 20:7-10). This will happen at the end of the Thousand Year Earthly Reign of Christ.

7. Heaven and Earth Pass Away (Re. 20:11; Re. 21:1; 2 Pe. 3:10-13; Ps. 97:5; Is. 51:6; Mk. 13:31). This will happen after God's final conflict with Satan and Rebellious Mankind.

8. The Great White Throne Judgment (Re. 20:11-15). This will happen after heaven and earth are removed.

9. New Heaven (2 Pe. 2:13; Re. 21:1), New Heavens (Is. 65:17); New Earth (Is. 66:22; 2 Pe. 2:13; Re. 21:1); New Jerusalem (Re. 3:12, Re. 212). This happens after the judgments of the Great White Throne.

FOR THE RECORD

Believers do not become angels when they die.

Believers will not spend eternity with God as disembodied spirits, floating around in a spirit world in the clouds.

An "Earth-less" heaven is not the believer's final destination.

There will be a New Heaven and New Earth (this heaven [region of heaven] and this earth, will be destroyed by fire and pass away).

There will be a New Jerusalem.

The New Heaven, New Earth and New Jerusalem will be our eternal abode.

POSSIBILITY

A New Heaven and Earth does not have to be created after the first earth is destroyed. It might be in existence now, in some far away part of the universe, held in reserve for us. Remember, the Old Testament saints (believers) sought a heavenly city (which is not to be confused with the Church Age, He. 11:10-16), New Testament saints (believers) are looking for a heavenly city (He. 13:14; 2 Pe. 3:13) and Jesus is preparing mansions for His followers now (Jn. 14:2-3; Re. 21:2).

This is not to say that we can see the New Heaven, New Earth and New Jerusalem now, and I am not saying that it is possible to see them before the appointed time. I am simply pointing out that all preparations for our eternal home are being made and it is not necessary for God to create an entirely new heaven and earth in the future.

THE POINT

There are two things to notice in all of this. First, there is an eternal home awaiting those who follow Christ by faith, and Second, there is a standard of life that is required if we want to live with Him in glory.

2 Peter 3:9-18

(9) The Lord is not slack concerning his promise, as some men count slackness; but is longsuffering to us-ward, not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance.
(10) But the day of the Lord will come as a thief in the night; in the which the heavens shall pass away with a great noise, and the elements shall melt with fervent heat, the earth also and the works that are therein shall be burned up.
(11) Seeing then that all these things shall be dissolved, what manner of persons ought ye to be in all holy conversation and godliness,
(12) Looking for and hasting unto the coming of the day of God, wherein the heavens being on fire shall be dissolved, and the elements shall melt with fervent heat?
(13) Nevertheless we, according to his promise, look for new heavens and a new earth, wherein dwelleth righteousness.
(14) Wherefore, beloved, seeing that ye look for such things, be diligent that ye may be found of him in peace, without spot, and blameless.
(15) And account that the longsuffering of our Lord is salvation; even as our beloved brother Paul also according to the wisdom given unto him hath written unto you;
(16) 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.
(17) Ye therefore, beloved, seeing ye know these things before, beware lest ye also, being led away with the error of the wicked, fall from your own stedfastness.
(18) But grow in grace, and in the knowledge of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. To him be glory both now and for ever. Amen.

DLG note... In verse 11 Peter tells believers that we ought to live a life of godliness, because the world is going to be destroyed by fire and God's wrath is going to come on the scoffers (vs. 3) and the ungodly (vs. 7). In verse 14 Peter tells believers to be diligent to be found spotless and blameless when Christ returns. In verse 17 he also warns believers not to be led away by the error of the wicked, and fall from our own steadfastness.

Upward and Onward in Christ,

Pastor David L. Gould

CLOTHED IN LIGHT

DECEMBER 12, 2011

I addressed a news article concerning humans having a natural, visible glow in 2009. However, I did not add the verses to my article until now. The view I present is intended to answer possible questions, which may arise from Adam's fall, and to edify the reader, concerning the "glory" that awaits believers in the resurrection . It is not intended to be a test of faith or salvation.

NEWS REPORT JULY 23, 2009

Scientist have found that humans have a natural, visible glow (mostly in the face). An article in Yahoo News says that people give off a physical light. The amount of light varies with different people, and the light level is very small, but people do give off a physical light.

SHAME IN GARDEN

I have always thought it strange that Adam and Eve became ashamed of their nakedness (Ge. 2:25) after Adam sinned (eyes opened and they knew, Ge. 3:7). Their shame could not have come from their nakedness, but from the sudden exposure of their nakedness. The human body is not evil, nor is intimacy between a husband and wife evil, since that was the intent of God's design and command (Ge. 1:28). But there was something different about their condition after Adam's sin. Let me mention a couple of possibilities.

TWO POSSIBILITIES

First, they had been unaware of their nakedness until Adam sinned. This is not likely. How could an intelligent being not know that he was not wearing material attire? Some have suggested that it was the loss of innocence that caused them to realize their nakedness. This is not likely.

Second, they were previously aware of their nakedness (lack of material attire) but were not ashamed (2:25). However, being without material attire does not mean they had no covering at all. Along with the loss of their innocence, the first couple may have lost a supernatural, divine covering of light they had before the fall, leaving their nakedness openly exposed. It was not just the loss of innocence, but the loss of divine dignity that brought them their shame.

GOD'S RESPONSE

The couple hid themselves from God because their eyes had been opened and they knew they were naked (Ge. 3:10-11). This sudden and embarrassed awareness of their physical nakedness (Ge. 3:7) might be an indication that they were “clothed” or covered with something before Adam sinned. Though there is no Biblical statement that definitively addresses this question, the fact that God was also concerned about their physical nakedness after their sin (Ge. 3:21), and the fact that He acted quickly to cover them may indicate that the exposure of their nakedness was something new. Remember, God made the human body and said it was good (Ge. 1:31). However, just because something is good or even perfect does not mean that it is intended for public display.

GOD AND LIGHT

God Himself is clothed, covered in light. Since Adam and Eve were in the image of God, it is reasonable to think that they may have been covered or clothed in “garments” of light. To lose the image of God would include losing the glory (the light, the brightness) of God also. If they were originally covered in light, it was not to hide sin or shame, but to keep a certain level of privacy and dignity. Remember, the first couple were told to multiply and replenish the earth. There is no reason to believe that their intimacy would have been on public display. Likewise, their nakedness would not have been on public display. God hides some things because of the glory it has and not because of shame (such as Himself and knowledge).

God is clothed, covered in light. Sometimes the Bible uses imagery when it speaks about God, such as God having feathers (Ps. 91:4), and there is imagery in the God/Light concept. Though God does not have feathers, there is literal light associated with the Person and presence of God. God is robed, covered in light, not because He has any sin or flaws to hide, and He is not a physical man, He has no nakedness to hide. Likewise, the light that will cover believers in the resurrection will not be covering sins or flaws, since we will be finally redeemed and free of all shame.

In fact, the Bible says definitively, GOD IS LIGHT. It does not say He is a light or even the light, but rather HE IS LIGHT. This is similar to the Biblical pronouncement that GOD IS LOVE and, GOD IS SPIRIT. Of these three declarations, Light is the only one that is visible. We err if we think that “light” is only used in some figurative or philosophical way.

HUMANS AND LIGHT

Adam lost truth, knowledge and righteousness in the fall, but God restores these traits to redeemed men. We are restored to greater light, both metaphorically and supernaturally, in our resurrection, or our GLORIFICATION. After the resurrection, we shall be clothed in white linen, which is righteousness. White raiment is associated with brightness as well as purity. Adam lost our righteousness, our intended glory, in the garden, Jesus restores us to righteousness glorifies His bride.

ASSOCIATED WITH LIGHT

The Bible record tells us that supernatural, physical light is associated with God the Father and the Son, angels, Moses, Mount Sinai, Mount of Transfiguration, the Tabernacle, the Temple, the birth of Christ, the Resurrection, the Ascension, the Second Coming of Christ, Peter's Deliverance from Prison, Paul's Conversion, Tribulation Saints, Tribulation Angel. Consider these passages, where light is used in the normal and natural sense of the word, though the circumstances are not normal or natural.

MOUNT SINAI

The glory, light, brightness of the Lord covered Mt. Sinai.
Exodus 24:15-17
(15) And Moses went up into the mount, and a cloud covered the mount.
(16) And the glory of the LORD abode upon mount Sinai, and the cloud covered it six days: and the seventh day he called unto Moses out of the midst of the cloud.
(17) And the sight of the glory of the LORD was like devouring fire on the top of the mount in the eyes of the children of Israel.

GOD'S APPEARANCE

God is a glorious, brilliant light.

Exodus 33:22
(22) And it shall come to pass, while my glory passeth by, that I will put thee in a clift of the rock, and will cover thee with my hand while I pass by:

MOSES' FACE

Moses' face shone with a glory, brilliance, light, after coming into contact with God.

Exodus 34:29-30, 35
(29) And it came to pass, when Moses came down from mount Sinai with the two tables of testimony in Moses' hand, when he came down from the mount, that Moses wist not that the skin of his face shone while he talked with him.
(30) And when Aaron and all the children of Israel saw Moses, behold, the skin of his face shone; and they were afraid to come nigh him.
(35) And the children of Israel saw the face of Moses, that the skin of Moses' face shone: and Moses put the vail upon his face again, until he went in to speak with him.

GOD IN THE TABERNACLE

The glory, brilliant light of God filled the Tabernacle.

Exodus 40:34-35
(34) Then a cloud covered the tent of the congregation, and the glory of the LORD filled the tabernacle.
(35) And Moses was not able to enter into the tent of the congregation, because the cloud abode thereon, and the glory of the LORD filled the tabernacle.

GOD IN THE WILDERNESS

God revealed His glory, brilliant light, to the Israelites.

Deuteronomy 5:24
(24) And ye said, Behold, the LORD our God hath shewed us his glory and his greatness, and we have heard his voice out of the midst of the fire: we have seen this day that God doth talk with man, and he liveth.

GOD'S COVER

God covers Himself with light (as in, “Let there be light”).

Psalms 104:2
(2) Who coverest thyself with light as with a garment: who stretchest out the heavens like a curtain:

GOD WILL BE EVERLASTING LIGHT

The actual light of God's presence will replace the light of the sun and moon.

Isaiah 60:19-20
(19) The sun shall be no more thy light by day; neither for brightness shall the moon give light unto thee: but the LORD shall be unto thee an everlasting light, and thy God thy glory.
(20) Thy sun shall no more go down; neither shall thy moon withdraw itself: for the LORD shall be thine everlasting light, and the days of thy mourning shall be ended.

GOD IN THE TEMPLE

Just as the presence of God filled the Tabernacle with glory, brilliant light, so the presence of God filled the Temple with glory, brilliant light.

Ezekiel 10:4
(4) Then the glory of the LORD went up from the cherub, and stood over the threshold of the house; and the house was filled with the cloud, and the court was full of the brightness of the LORD'S glory.

MOUNT OF TRANSFIGURATION

Jesus literally appeared before His followers as a brilliant, white light. His robe also glistened.

Matthew 17:2
(2) And was transfigured before them: and his face did shine as the sun, and his raiment was white as the light.

ANGEL AT EMPTY TOMB

The face of the angle of the Lord, as seen by the guards, was like lightning and robes were white as snow.

Matthew 28:2-4
(2) And, behold, there was a great earthquake: for the angel of the Lord descended from heaven, and came and rolled back the stone from the door, and sat upon it.
(3) His countenance was like lightning, and his raiment white as snow:
(4) And for fear of him the keepers did shake, and became as dead men.

ANGEL AT NATIVITY

The glory, brilliant light of the Lord accompanied the angels at the birth of Christ.

Luke 2:9
(9) And, lo, the angel of the Lord came upon them, and the glory of the Lord shone round about them: and they were sore afraid.

CHRIST'S RETURN

While this may refer to the quickness of His return, it is reasonable that it should be accompanied with astronomical light.

Luke 17:24
(24) For as the lightning, that lighteneth out of the one part under heaven, shineth unto the other part under heaven; so shall also the Son of man be in his day.

JESUS PRAYED FOR FORMER PRE-INCARNATE GLORY TO BE RESTORED

John 17:4-5

(4) I have glorified thee on the earth: I have finished the work which thou gavest me to do.
(5) And now, O Father, glorify thou me with thine own self with the glory which I had with thee before the world was.

ASCENSION

Acts 1:10

(10) And while they looked stedfastly toward heaven as he went up, behold, two men stood by them in white apparel;

PETER'S DELIVERANCE

An actual light attended the presence of the angle of the Lord, when Peter was delivered from prison.

Acts 12:7
(7) And, behold, the angel of the Lord came upon him, and a light shined in the prison: and he smote Peter on the side, and raised him up, saying, Arise up quickly. And his chains fell off from his hands.

PAUL'S CONVERSION

God stopped Paul in the middle of the day with a dazzling light, seen by Paul and his fellow travelers. However, the voice was heard only by Paul.

Acts 22:6-9
(6) And it came to pass, that, as I made my journey, and was come nigh unto Damascus about
noon, suddenly there shone from heaven a great light round about me.
(7) And I fell unto the ground, and heard a voice saying unto me, Saul, Saul, why persecutest thou me?
(8) And I answered, Who art thou, Lord? And he said unto me, I am Jesus of Nazareth, whom thou persecutest.
(9) And they that were with me saw indeed the light, and were afraid; but they heard not the voice of him that spake to me.

Acts 26:13-15
(13) At midday, O king, I saw in the way a light from heaven, above the brightness of the sun, shining round about me and them which journeyed with me.
(14) And when we were all fallen to the earth, I heard a voice speaking unto me, and saying in the Hebrew tongue, Saul, Saul, why persecutest thou me? it is hard for thee to kick against the pricks.

(15) And I said, Who art thou, Lord? And he said, I am Jesus whom thou persecutest.

AFFIRMATION OF FAITH

This passage indicates that the pure light of God is so bright that no man can approach or see it.

1 Timothy 6:15-16
(15) Which in his times he shall shew, who is the blessed and only Potentate, the King of kings, and Lord of lords;
(16) Who only hath immortality, dwelling in the light which no man can approach unto; whom no man hath seen, nor can see: to whom be honour and power everlasting. Amen.

JESUS IMAGE OF FATHER

Jesus is the brightness of the Father's glory, express image of His person.

Hebrews 1:3
(3) Who being the brightness of his glory, and the express image of his person, and upholding all things by the word of his power, when he had by himself purged our sins, sat down on the right hand of the Majesty on high;

GOD IS LIGHT

This passage actually says God is light, rather than comparing Him to light.

1 John 1:5
(5) This then is the message which we have heard of him, and declare unto you, that God is light, and in him is no darkness at all.

THE RESURRECTED/GLORIFIED CHRIST

John describes the appearance the face of the glorified Christ as the sun shining in his strength.

Revelation 1:16
(16) And he had in his right hand seven stars: and out of his mouth went a sharp two edged sword: and his countenance was as the sun shineth in his strength.

TRIBULATION SAINTS

The Tribulation Martyrs will be given “white robes.” (Remember the Transfiguration, the Empty Tomb and the Ascension).

Revelation 6:11
(11) And white robes were given unto every one of them; and it was said unto them, that they should rest yet for a little season, until their fellowservants also and their brethren, that should be killed as they were, should be fulfilled.

Revelation 7:9
(9) After this I beheld, and, lo, a great multitude, which no man could number, of all nations, and kindreds, and people, and tongues, stood before the throne, and before the Lamb, clothed with white robes, and palms in their hands;

TRIBULATION ANGEL

The angel from heaven gave light to a world in darkness.

Revelation 18:1
(1) And after these things I saw another angel come down from heaven, having great power; and the earth was lightened with his glory.

NEW JERUSALEM

John saw that the New Jerusalem would be lighted by the very presence of God.

Revelation 21:23
(23) And the city had no need of the sun, neither of the moon, to shine in it: for the glory of God did lighten it, and the Lamb is the light thereof.

Revelation 22:5
(5) And there shall be no night there; and they need no candle, neither light of the sun; for the Lord God giveth them light: and they shall reign for ever and ever.

COLLATERAL PASSAGES THAT MAY HAVE DOUBLE MEANING

The following are passages that apparently use the imagery of light, however, the ultimate manifestation of actual light cannot be discounted. I say this because sometimes God's revelation has a double meaning. It could be that God chose to use the imagery of light because light will attend our future state.

JOB'S PROMISE OF RESURRECTION GLORY

Job 11:17

(17) And thine age shall be clearer than the noonday; thou shalt shine forth, thou shalt be as the morning.

THE WICKED LOSE THEIR LIGHT

Job 18:5-6

(5) Yea, the light of the wicked shall be put out, and the spark of his fire shall not shine.
(6) The light shall be dark in his tabernacle, and his candle shall be put out with him.

THE LIGHT OF THE RIGHTEOUS INTENSIFIES

Proverbs 4:18-19

(18) But the path of the just is as the shining light, that shineth more and more unto the perfect day.
(19) The way of the wicked is as darkness: they know not at what they stumble.

Proverbs 13:9
(9) The light of the righteous rejoiceth: but the lamp of the wicked shall be put out.

MESSIANIC PROMISE

Isaiah 60:1-3

(1) Arise, shine; for thy light is come, and the glory of the LORD is risen upon thee.
(2) For, behold, the darkness shall cover the earth, and gross darkness the people: but the LORD shall arise upon thee, and his glory shall be seen upon thee.
(3) And the Gentiles shall come to thy light, and kings to the brightness of thy rising.

GARMENTS OF SALVATION

Isaiah 61:10

(10) I will greatly rejoice in the LORD, my soul shall be joyful in my God; for he hath clothed me with the garments of salvation, he hath covered me with the robe of righteousness, as a bridegroom decketh himself with ornaments, and as a bride adorneth herself with her jewels.

SAINTS RAISED TO LIGHT

Daniel 12:2-3

(2) And many of them that sleep in the dust of the earth shall awake, some to everlasting life, and some to shame and everlasting contempt.
(3) And they that be wise shall shine as the brightness of the firmament; and they that turn many to righteousness as the stars for ever and ever.

RESURRECTED SAINTS IN MILLENNIUM

Matthew 13:43

(43) Then shall the righteous shine forth as the sun in the kingdom of their Father. Who hath ears to hear, let him hear.

HIS LIFE IS LIGHT

John 1:4-5

(4) In him was life; and the life was the light of men.
(5) And the light shineth in darkness; and the darkness comprehended it not.

FATHER OF LIGHTS

James 1:17

(17) Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and cometh down from the Father of lights, with whom is no variableness, neither shadow of turning.

Launch Out and Hold Fast,

Pastor David L. Gould

TRULY HOLY

DECEMBER 8, 2011

Just in case anyone asks you, there is no "holy city of Medina" (or Rome for that matter). I mention this because a news article this week told that an Australian man has been sentenced in the "holy" city of Medina, Saudi Arabia, to receive 500 lashes and a year in prison because he supposedly blasphemed Islams prophet. This is not unusual, since Saudi Arabia is consistently one of the greatest offenders against religious freedom and human rights in the world over the past several years. Sadly, Barack Hussein Obama has referred to the religious writings of Islam as the "holy" Koran, though the only holy book in the entire world is the Holy Bible, since it reveals the only, true and living God.

Religions can call something holy (like cities, books or leaders) but only the presence of the God of the Bible actually makes something holy. I wonder, though, if sometime in the future, Islam stops killing Christians (which is not likely), will all of Saudi Arabia's oppression and persecution of Christians and Jews be forgotten, just as society has forgotten the monstrous atrocities of the Roman religion against Bible believing Christians in the past. By the way, I don't know that Rome ever apologized for their crimes against Christians.

One other observation. I am appalled by the the way the word, "holy" is used in conjunction with crude and filthy talk. It is not unusual to hear people, even children, use the word, "Holy" with words that refer to human waste. How sick is a society when it calls human filth by the word associated with the purity of God.

Proverbs 17:15

(15)  He that justifieth the wicked, and he that condemneth the just, even they both are abomination to the LORD.

2 Peter 2:1-2

(1)  But there were false prophets also among the people, even as there shall be false teachers among you, who privily shall bring in damnable heresies, even denying the Lord that bought them, and bring upon themselves swift destruction.

(2)  And many shall follow their pernicious ways; by reason of whom the way of truth shall be evil spoken of.

Isaiah 5:20

(20)  Woe unto them that call evil good, and good evil; that put darkness for light, and light for darkness; that put bitter for sweet, and sweet for bitter!

Launch Out and Hold Fast,

Pastor David L. Gould

THE A-B-Cs OF PERFECTION

DECEMBER 7, 2011

Here are the A, B, Cs of the perfection God provides for us and expects us to experience in this present world.

Atonement Perfection (the perfection obtained for us through the life, death and resurrection of Jesus Christ).

Biblical Perfection (the perfection described, offered and commanded in the Bible).

Christian Perfection (the perfection of heart and love available to those who are walking by faith).

So, for those who are, "Not Perfect, Just Forgiven," He is able.

For a more thorough study, I have included a page entitled, BE YE THEREFORE PERFECT.

Launch Out and Hold Fast,

Pastor David L. Gould

FOLLOWING IN CHRIST'S STEPS

DECEMBER 5, 2011

JESUS LEADS,

When Jesus died on the cross for us, He commended His spirit into the care of the Father.

Luke 23:46

(46) And when Jesus had cried with a loud voice, he said, Father, into thy hands I commend my spirit: and having said thus, he gave up the ghost.

WE FOLLOW,

When we die on the cross with Christ, we commend our lives into the care of the Holy Spirit.

Galatians 5:24-25

(24) And they that are Christ's have crucified the flesh with the affections and lusts.
(25) If we live in the Spirit, let us also walk in the Spirit.

Launch Out and Hold Fast,
Pastor David L. Gould

GOD DESIRES UNITY

DECEMBER 1, 2011

God knows everything about everything all the time. He is compassionate. He loves His creation, even those in rebellion, and He loves His redeemed. How sad when He sees people divided, separated, in conflict. He knows what would heal their relationships, but they don't ask, listen or obey, and therefore they are not reconciled.

Human parents also mourn divisions between their children. How often a parent would help erring siblings salvage failed relationships, if they would ask, listen and follow godly counsel.

Here are some verses that apply to the opening paragraph.

God Knows Everything (omniscient).

Job 37:16 (perfect in knowledge).

Psalm 139:4 (knows our thoughts).

Psalm 147:5 (limitless understanding).

Isaiah 46:9-10 (knows end from beginning).

1 John 3:20 (God knows all things).

God is Compassionate.

Psalm 78:38; Psalm 111:4; Psalm 145:8; Lamentations 3:32.

God Loves His Creation (the human race).

John 1:29; John 3:16; Romans 5:8; 2 Corinthians 5:14-15, 19; Ephesians 2:4-5; 1 Timothy 2:4; Titus 3:4-52; Peter 3:9; 1 John. 2:2; 1 John 4:9-10, 14.

God Loves His Church.

John 15:9; Ephesians 3:19; Ephesians 5:2, 25.

God Wants His Children to Live in Peace and Unity.

Psalm 133:1-3; Romans 12:16-18; 1 Corinthians 1:10; Ephesians 4:1-8; Philippians 2:2-3; Philippians 3:16; 1 Thessalonians. 5:13; Hebrews 12:14; James. 3:17-18; 1 Peter. 3:8-11.

Launch Out and Hold Fast,
Pastor David L. Gould

SPIRITUAL SATURATIOIN

NOVEMBER 28, 2011

When someone becomes fanatical about something, he saturates himself with that culture.

Sports enthusiasts study players, teams, stats, history, plays.

Music enthusiasts memorize lyrics, tunes, singers/musicians, tours, backstage info.

Movie enthusiasts crave info on stars, productions, behind the scenes gossip, showbiz trivia.

Business enthusiasts learns markets, trends, costs, connections, captains of industry, tax loopholes.

My observation is, those who are truly enthused with Christ and salvation focus on spiritual things constantly, make spiritual choices consistently, praise Christ continuously. Check your vitals.

They do this by inwardly singing spiritual songs, quoting Bible verses, praying without ceasing, observing everything through the mind of Christ. This is the life that leads to growth in grace and knowledge of Christ.


Launch Out and Hold Fast,
Pastor David L. Gould

JOB 1

NOVEMBER 28, 2011
Concerning God's salvation and Christian ministry, Job 1 is Believer's Perfection.

PASSAGES...

Titus 2:11-14

11 For the grace of God that bringeth salvation hath appeared to all men.

12 Teaching us that, denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, we should live soberly, righteously, and godly, in this present world;

13 Looking for that blessed hope, and the glorious appearing of the great God and our Saviour Jesus Christ;

14 Who gave himself for us, that he might redeem us from all iniquity, and purify unto himself a peculiar people, zealous of good works.

Ephesians 4:11-13

11 And he gave some, apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers;

12 For the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ:
13 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:

Colossians 1:28-29

28 Whom we preach, warning every man, and teaching every man in all wisdom; that we may present every man perfect in Christ Jesus:
29 Whereunto I also labour, striving according to his working, which worketh in me mightily.

Job 1:1
1 There was a man in the land of Uz, whose name was Job; and that man was perfect and upright, and one that feared God, and eschewed evil.


Launch Out and Hold Fast,
Pastor David L. Gould

LOYALTY ALERT

NOVEMBER 25, 2011
There are people who confuse being a Christian with being an American. Yes, you can be both, but you must not confuse the two. Likewise there are those who think that Christians should not question the actions of the US Government and Military, and Christians must follow the laws, rules, codes and directives of the  US Government and Military. WRONG.

Obey God Rather Than Men
When any government or authority figure takes action against the message of Christ, the Christian must obey God rather than men (Acts 5:29). Also, when a government misuses or abuses it power/authority by attacking or oppressing Christians or the Christian message, it is time for Christians to stand against such entities, even if it is the US government or military. I am not speaking of violent resistance but non violent resistance. Though we should not take arms against our government, we must never follow those who resist or attack the gospel.

US Attack On Christianity (the beginning)
The US government and military has made it illegal for men/women in uniform to obey Christ in fulfilling the Great Commission (make disciples of all nations, Matthew 28:18-20), the US government and military has ordered that Holy Bibles not be distributed by men and women in the military. The US government and military has ordered the burning of Holy Bibles. The US government and military has forbade the message of Christmas to be openly displayed on some ( if not all) military properties. NOW, The US government and military has ordered that a cross be removed from a chapel in Afghanistan.

Only One Way To God
The cross in an offence (Romans 9:33), but it should not be the target of the American government or military. Christ and the Bible are despised and rejected (Isaiah 53:3), but they should not be attacked by the American government or military. The Christian message is not one of many ways to God or the best of a few ways to God. Christ is the only way, the only truth and the only life and no man comes to the Father but by Him (John 14:6). Whether in our own country or on foreign shore, the faith of our fathers should not be cast off or cast down in order to appease any other religion or any other nation.

Time To Choose
I realize some people have no problem accommodating the anti-Bible, anti-Christ, anti-Christian in our society, but for those who want to be true Christians, choose ye this day whom you will serve (Joshua 24:15).

Call To Spiritual Warfare
This is not a protest against government or military, since those are the worldly tools God uses to punish wicked and protect the righteous (1 Peter 2:13-14; Romans 13:1-4). Remember, our weapons are not carnal, swords of steel, but spiritual (2 Corinthians 10:3-4). We wrestle not against flesh and blood, but spiritual powers (Ephesians 6:12-17). This is a call to consistent loyalty to Christ, whether people are in uniform or not. The State has the right to lead the people, provided they do not lead the people against God and His word. Christians have an obligation to obey the State, provided the State does not usurp the authority of God. The State has a responsibility to obey God (Romans 13:4) or it becomes the anarchist.


Launch Out and Hold Fast,
Pastor David L. Gould