The True Light…
JESUS had been in the temple being challenged by the priests and rabbis. They wished of the elimination of JESUS’s Authory from their teachings. They tried over and over again to disprove The Saviours Position. To label HIM as a blasphemer, to stone and take HIS Life. They truly wished to destroy HIM. HE was a threat to their standing, against the populations, they would be accounted for their wrong doings. They tried to claim their rightfulness to GOD, through Abraham. As, Jewish men to announce their heritage and authority, through bloodlines. JESUS drew a sharp contrast between the position of the Jews and that of Abraham. Stating, “Your father Abraham rejoiced to see MY Day: and he saw it, and was glad.” Through Divine Light, Abraham was given the privilege to see Christ. Also, in the testing for Issac to be sacrificed; Abraham saw the symbolic representation of JESUS, as The Sacrifical Lamb for sin and against death. With the temple leaders did not recognize JESUS and rejected HIS Truth; they themselves were pronouncing judgement against themselves. They were not recognizing The Voice of GOD; through HIS SON. Wherefore, they were not in a spiritual connection with Almighty GOD. Christ stated, “He that is of GOD, hears GOD’s Words; you hear them not, because you are not of GOD.” The lesson is true for all time. Many try to argue or offer criticizm of GOD’s Word(Scripture), thinking that they are given the position to do this or the mental acuteness or independance to argue or dissagree with GOD. Not so! Who are we to argue or dissagree with Almighty GOD: The Creator Of The Universes; holding Authority Over ALL. We are as a speck of dust. We actually have been originally made from the dust! Genesis 2:7.
The crowd in the temple were becoming anxious, among the priest and rabbis. They took up stones to cast at HIM. But, JESUS hid Himself among the crowd, going through the midst of them, and then, HE exited the temple. As JESUS passed by, HE saw a man which was blind from birth. And HIS Disciples asked HIM, “Master, who did this sin? this man or his parents? JESUS, answered “Neither.” “Not his parents or himself. This is that The Works of GOD should be made manifest in him.” After JESUS said this, HE spat on the ground and made clay from HIS spit, and HE anointed the blindman’s eyes. Saying, “Go, wash in the pool of Siloam, (which is by interpetation is ‘Sent‘). The blindman went to the pool and washed the clay from his eyelids; becoming sighted.
The Jewish leaders and their followers believed that all disease and affliction was from sin. That GOD placed a curse upon the victims, as it being from their own sins or from their parents, proceeding to the third generation. satan, the author of sin and all its repercussions. Have men looking at GOD, as a vengeful authoritator. That sin and death were penalties for their wrong doings. That, if one faced a heavy burden of an affliction or calamity, by them being regarded as a great sinner. The way of the JEWS promoted this judgement. JESUS promise of carrying our griefs and sorrows, was a definate contradiction to the Jewish leaders teachings. The disciples also, carried these beliefs, as them. Christ was trying for them to realize this falsehood. As, Christ Himself was The Light to all the world. Offering to carry the weight of our burdens and afflictions.
GOD Is Light; and in these words, “I AM The Light of the world,” Christ declared HIS Oneness with GOD, and HIS relation to the whole human family. It was HE who at the beginning had caused “the light to shine out of darkness.” 2Corithinians 4:6. HE is the light of sun and moon and star. HE was the spiritual light that in symbol and type and prophecy had shone upon Israel: HIS Chosen (first, than.. the Gentiles). The Light of The SON of Righteousness shines upon every soul. That all are held accountable for their decision; of whom they choose to serve. “In HIM was Life; and the Life was the Light of men.” Colossians2:3; John 1:4. “He that followeth ME,” says JESUS, “shall not walk in darkness, but shall have The Light of Life.” I the words, “I Am The Light of the world,” JESUS declares Himself as The One and Only Messiah. In The Giver of This Light; is The Truth to our salvation, wisdom, strength, faith, redemption; our Everlasting Life throughout all of eternity; praising The KING of kings…
The Pharisees had declared themselves as children of Abraham. Assessing, that this Jewish lineage led them to GOD’s Kingdom. They were filled with prideful rituals and condemnation. Their own religious hierarchy was placed, within their narrowed views and rites; which they admonished. Being totally separated from GOD’s Heart and Will. So absorbed and blinded by their own judgements. They were the walking dead, that expelled others with their pompious traditions, kept from the Loving Truth of The FATHER. Their self-righteous teachings were stumbling barriers to Israel’s followers. Their claim to Abraham’s birthright was of no value. They did not offer an obedience to GOD, as Abraham, himself lived. They were trying to kill JESUS. If they were living in The Truth; then, they would acknowledge HIM; as The SON of GOD.
Christ was proclaiming HIS Stance; as The Light of the world. HE wished for HIS Disciples to see this Truth. in asking the blindman to wash the clay from his eyelids. It was evident that the clay or the water had not the healing elements. But, it was The Virtue of Christ’s Anointing that transpired this man to see. It was not in the answer to sinning or not, it was in The Mercy and Power of GOD that gave sight to the blinded (physically and spiritually). The Pharisees could not, but, be astonished in this healing. Every criticism they induced; was defeated by this profound cure. The man whom was blind at birth, now could see. They were angered to the miracle being performed upon the Sabbath day. Christ did most of HIS Healings upon the Sabbath Days. ( In fact they may of all been on the Sabbaths. The Pharisees in their narrowness of ridged rituals, proclaimed JESUS as a common sinner who was performing miracles, and upon GOD’s Sabbath. They called for his parents in questioning if his blindness was from birth. They ask,”Is this your son, who ye say was born blind?” They disallowed the healed man’s testimony and resorted to the town’s people and his parents. “How then doth (does) he seeth now?” They answered admitting their parenthood but shifted the questioning to their son. They did not wish to be excommunicated from the Jewish leaders and the town’s acceptance. The sighted man told them, that he was blind, and now he sees. That he did not know if The Healer was a sinner or not; but, because of HIM, he now was sighted. There was a fresh countenance upon this man face. His eyes were sparkling with newness of vision. He was excited to see the beauty and colors all around him. It was the first time he could see his parents, his neighbors. Being refreshed in his surroundings of vivid colors and depths. He was given a courage and strengthened words to respond, to all of the Pharisee questionings.
The man left the synagogue with a newfound direction and hope. As he was leaving; the Pharisees excommunicated him. JESUS knew of his ordeal at their vindictation. HE approached him. JESUS asked, “Do you believe in The SON Of GOD?” For the first time this sighted man looked upon the gentle face of his Restorer. After seeing the complexity of his own parents standing before the grumbling Pharisees. He is now facing His Giver Of Sight. At a great cost to himself, he acknowledge JESUS as a delegate of Divine Power. This higher revelation was now granted upon him. To JESUS’s former question, he answered,”Who is He, Lord, that I might believe on HIM?” And JESUS said;” Thou has both seen and is now speaking with HIM.” The sighted man casted himself down upon the ground, at JESUS’s Feet, in worship. The sight and wisdom of The Saviour’s Divinity was well reaching unto his soul. This revelation had been given; in This Light of Truth… The man’s sight of both soul and vision had been awakened. He looked upon JESUS as his Restorer and Redeemor; claiming his need of HIM. The Pharisees in their own wicked self-indulgence and pride would not receive The Saviour. They were not seeking a resolution to their sins. They felt they had the priveledge righthood to GOD, through Abraham and through their own stately positions as priests. So their hearts and minds were closed to The Truth. Their eyes were closed as well, as their hearts.. so they could not receive JESUS. They were self-absorbed in their own blindness. The blindness of their own quilt of refusement. JESUS saith(says),”Your sin remaineth.” There are so many of this world, that have their hearts closed to The Saviour’s Calling and His Loving Truths. It is such a saddened state, to not allow JESUS to come into our living and to set us free from all the delusions within this world. HE gives us the knowledge and ability to conquer all sinning. To place all our burdens, our pain, our concerns; before His Holy Feet. HE will guide us through our trials and the diversity we face each and every day.. That is a Promise. John 8:12-59
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“Lazarus, Come Forth!”
Among the most steadfast of Christ’s Disciples was Lazarus of Bethany. From their first meeting his faith in Christ had been strong; his love for HIM was deep, and he was greatly beloved by the Saviour. It was for Lazarus that the greatest of Christ’s Miracles was performed. The Saviour blessed all who sought HIS Help; HE loves all the human family, but to some HE is bound by a specialness in association. HIS Heart was knitted to Lazarus family. At the home of Lazarus, JESUS had often found rest. The Saviour had no home for Himself. HE was dependent on the hospitality of His Friends and His Disciples, and often when wearied, thirsted for human fellowship and a common understanding, away from the criticisms and hatred, of others, especially the Pharisees. Here HE would find a peaceful welcoming, and a sincere friendship. Our Saviour appreciated a receiving group, of heavenly instruction He would impart among The Blessings. HE always desired for His listeners to receive His Descriptive Teachings; drawing them in a closer communion with their Creator. Pointing out nature’s blessings of intricate beauty and purpose. JESUS willed for a better understanding to the significance of GOD’s Loving Heart for mankind. Within Lazarus home, HE spoke not in parables or lengthly teachings. HE shared a genuine tenderness in the sincerity of their friendship. It also, was a retreat for His Refreshing of Spirit and Kindship. Lazarus sisters were always attentive to their brother’s Friend. JESUS was a Friend also, to them. They would have many hours of sharing in the friendly tutoring. Women would be dutiful to the household’s needing. They would love listening to the men’s conversations as they prepared and served the meals. Martha (oldest sister) became very upset, with younger Mary. While Martha was mindful of her duties.. Mary was sitting at JESUS’s Feet, listening with attentiveness. Martha became very annoyed at Mary’s neglect. Martha was disallowing this granted freedom, which she, herself refused. She put her chores and busyiness above The LORD’s Teachings. Martha was also, placing her independance from HIM, as a more important factor. All these actual factors, were a part of, her decision to keep working, instead of sitting down to hear of His Teaching… Sorrow one day entered the peaceful home where JESUS came many times to see His Friends. Lazarus was strickened with a sudden illness, and Martha and Mary sent their servant to alert The Saviour, saying, “Lord, behold, he whom Thou lovest is sick.” There was a violent illness that overtook Lazarus. But, the sisters knew that JESUS had shown Himself able to heal all manner of diseases. They believed that He would sympathize in their distress, that He would come immediately, to restore their brother and JESUS’s close Friend. JESUS was a distance from Bethany, when He received the servant’s given message. JESUS stated, upon this, “This sickness is not unto death, but for The Glory Of GOD, that The SON Of GOD might be glorified thereby.” The disciples were surprised and indifferent with Him. For two days He remained where they had visited. This delay was a mystery to His Twelve. Anxiously, Martha and Mary awaited for a message in responding.They prayed and awaited for their Friend to arrive. But, the servant returned, without Him. JESUS’s Words were delivered, so they still held onto the hope that their brother would recover. When Lazarus died, they were bitterly disappointed; but they felt the substaining Grace of JESUS, with no ill repute towards Him.
After waiting for two days, JESUS said to the disciples,”Let us go into Judea again.” The disciples questioned why JESUS had waited those two days before returning? Anxiety was upon His Disciples. “Master” they said, “the Jews are searching to stone Thee and You are willing to go there again?” JESUS answered,” Is there not twelve hours in a day?” “I am under The Guidance of MY Father; as long as I do HIS Will, MY Life is safe. The twelve hours of day have not ended. I am entering the last part of My Time here; but while My Time still remains, I am safe.” “If any man walks in the day, he stumbles not, because he can still see the things around him.” He who walks in the path, that GOD has made, cannot stumble and fall. The Light of GOD’s Guiding Spirit gives him a clear vision of his doings and keeps him sin free and out of harms way.” “When a man walks in the darkness of his own way, he does not see the dangers that come near unto him. He then, is not secured in his stand.”
JESUS then spoke,”Our friend Lazarus sleeps (is dead), but I go, now to awake him from his sleep (death). The disciples were glad to hear that JESUS had not forgotten His Friend. But, they were puzzled at His Words. If Lazarus was only sleeping, then why had JESUS not gone earlier to see and heal him. They were not receiving Christ’s Interpetation of that, The Children of GOD’s which are referred to, as sleeping; until the last trump shall sound and those who are to be redeemed, are awakened and lifted and transformed; to meet HIM, in the air. Then, those who are alive In Christ will be lifted, also. The lost will be judged and will receive their just reward; through ‘the weight of their sin(s) not repented of’ whom they will receive the second death.
Then, JESUS said, :”Lazarus is dead.” “And I am glad, I was not there.”
Did The Saviour by His Own Choice avoid the home of His suffering Friends? Apparently Mary and Martha and the dying Lazarus were left alone. But, they were not alone. Christ beheld the whole scene, and after the death of Lazarus the bereaved sisters were upheld in His Grace. JESUS witnessed the sorrow of their rent/(torn) hearts, as their brother wrestled with his strong foe, death. HE felt every pang (extreme emotional pain) of anguish, as HE said to His Disciples, “Lazarus is dead.” But, Christ had not only his friends in Bethany to comfort. The disciples needed His training and the knowledge gained from this. They were to be His representatives to the world, that The FATHER’s Blessing might embrace all. For their and our sake, HE permitted Lazarus to die. Had HE restored him from his illness to health, this miracle, that is, the most profound evidence of His Divine Character, would not have been received. Had Christ been in the sickroom, Lazarus would not have died; for satan would have no power over him. Death would of aimed his dart at Lazarus in the presence of The Life Giver. Therefore, Christ remained away. HE suffered while satan was allowed to exercise his attack, that HE would drive him back as; the defeated foe. HE permitted Lazarus to pass under the dominion of death; and the suffering sisters saw their brother laid in the tomb. Christ knew that they looked on the dead face of their brother, their faith in The Redeemer would be severely tried. But, HE knew that the pain through their suffering; that their resilient belief would shine forth in a greater stance. JESUS received each painful cry and tear the sisters now endured. HE loved them, in the specialness, Lazarus and his sisters deeply had upon His Heart. HE had to tarry, with The Victory which was to be gained.
“For your sakes,”(including all which hear of this event.. past-present-future)”To the intent you may believe.” To all whom are reaching out to feel The Guiding Hand Of GOD, the moment of greatest discouragement is the time when Divine Help is nearest. They will look upon the darkest hour with thankfulness of the victory gained. That, may seem very difficult; especially when we are facing the adversity nose to nose. But there is The Promise of JESUS being there during our journey. “The LORD knows how to deliver the godly,” 2Peter 2:9. From every temptation and every trial HE will bring us forth with a firmer faith and a richer experience to help others. The Saviour’s Hand is extended out for us to take hold of..
In JESUS’s Tarry; HE purposely developed the elements to be developed to further His Teaching. HIS Mercy for all whom He loved. HE was to bring evidence to their faltering disbelief and questioning; that HE; Himself is: The Resurrection and The LIFE. To give hope to the wandering sheep of Israel’s nation. The raising of Lazarus is; The Crowning Miracle. Setting The Seal Of GOD; on His Work and Claim To Divinity.
On HIS Journey to Bethany, JESUS according to His Custom, ministered to the sick and needy. Upon reaching the town He sent a messenger to Lazarus home, informing the sisters with the tidings of His Arrival. Christ was in sight of the realitives and friends, which were there among the Jewish priests. There was heavy wailing from the hired mourners. The message of JESUS’s Return was given to Martha. Martha went to meet Him. Her heart was agitated with conflicting emotions. She loved JESUS, but, still did not understand JESUS’s delay, at the cost of her brother’s life. She eagerly hastened to meet with Him. She could view His Tender, Gentle Expression, her confidence unbroken, yet overcome with her grief. “LORD, if Thou had been here, my brother would still be alive.” With human and Divine Pity JESUS looked into her sorrowful, careworn face. Martha had no inclination to recount the past; all was expressed by those pathetic words. As she looked into JESUS’s Face Of Love, she added, “I know, that even now, whatsoever Thou wilt(will) ask of GOD, GOD will give it to Thee).” JESUS encouraged her faith, saying, “Thy(your) brother shall rise again.” JESUS’s Words were inclusive to The Time of His Given Resurrection; to those whom love Him. This HE did that she might see the resurrection of Lazarus. A Pledge; of The Resurrection of All The Righteous Dead In Christ, and an assurance that it would be accomplished by The Saviour’s Power. Martha answered, “I know that he shall rise again in The Resurrection at the last day.” Still seeking to give a true direction to her faith, JESUS declared, “I Am The Resurrection, and The LIFE.” In Christ Is LIFE, original, unborrowed, underived. “He that has The SON; has LIFE.” 1John 5:12. The Divinity of Christ is the believer’s assurance of Eternal LIFE. “He that believes in ME; though he was dead in sin, yet shall he live; and whoever lives and beliefs In ME., shall never die. Christ looks upon His Second Coming. Then the righteous dead shall be raised incorruptible, and the living righteous shall be transllated to heaven without seeing . This Miracle Of Lazarus resurrection into life, would represent this resurrection of all the righteous dead. By His Work and Word; HE declared Himself; The Author Of the Resurrection. HE who was soon to be hung upon the cross stood with the keys of death, A Conqueror of the grave. Asserting His Right and Power to give Eternal LIFE. To The Saviour’s Question to Martha. she responded, “Yes, I believe LORD, that Thou are The Christ (Saviour/Messiah); The Son Of GOD, which has come into the world.” She in faith, agreed with His Ability and Divinity. Then Martha, called Mary to HIS Side, “The Master has come, and calleth for thee.” Martha message was quietly delivered, knowing that the Jewish priests and other officials there, would advance upon JESUS’s Safety. They wished to have Him arrested and put to death. When she approached Him, she fell at His Feet, in exastperation; “LORD, if Thou had been here, my brother would still be alive!” JESUS saw the pain of Mary’s heart and also, HE wept softly to Himself. JESUS could see the hypocrites of the paid mourners and The Jewish leaders assembled were of a showing to themselves, not in a trueness of heart to offered condolances. JESUS could read their hearts and was saddened. HE asked Mary, “Where have you laid him?” Together, the sisters and the small group of true friends proceeded to Lazarus’s grave. JESUS wepted. HIS Human Nature was moved by the sympathy of those suffering. JESUS weeps with those who weep and rejoices with those whom are rejoicing. In JESUS’s Tears, there was the sorrow, higher above the earth to the heavens. HIS Heart’s Understanding was filled with the misguidance of these people’s hearts and them not perceiving His Purpose, as The Saviour. Unjust comments of disbelief were increasing between those attending. It was not, only, because of the scene of this unlearned gathered, Christ foresaw the turmoil the Jewish nation would face in the years to come, under Roman authority. HE also, could see those who would mock and sentence HIM to be beaten, beyond recognition and then. Crucified. Natural impossibilities cannot prevent The Work of The Omnipotent One. Skepticism and unbelief are not of humility. Implicit belief in Christ’s Word is true humility of self-surrender. It’s in Faith; that we gain Faith.
Christ could of charged the heavenly angels to roll the stone away from Lazarus’s Tomb. HE needed for all those gathered and for others to see and hear of GOD’s Deliverance. In having people assist in the rolling away of the grave’s stone. Showing that humanity is to co-operate with Divinity. What, human power is purposed to do; Divine Power is not to intervene. GOD strengthens man, as he uses the capabilities and talents already given. Christ’s Command is obeyed, the stone is rolled back. Everything is openly and purposely displayed. All are given the opportunity to see, in the deception of none. Lazarus had been dead in his cold silent tomb, resting upon a third day. The expectant gathered around the sepulcher (tomb) await in silence, as Christ stands at the grave’s opening. A sacred solemnity rests upon all who are present. Christ steps closer to the entrance. Lifting His Eyes to the heavens, HE says, “FATHER, I thank THEE (YOU) that THOU(YOU) has heard ME.” Not long before this Christ’s enemies had accused Him of blasphemy(claiming to be The Son Of GOD), and had taken up stones to stone Him to death. They had accused Him of performing miracles by the power of satan. But, here Christ claims GOD as His Father, and with perfect confidence declares that HE Is The Son Of GOD. In ALL that HE did; Christ was in total co-operation with His Father. JESUS made it clear that HIS Miracles were not done independently; but, through HIS Father, by Faith and Prayer..
That it was ALL in HIS Relationship with The FATHER.
In this historical event; mankind, through the disciples and the onlookers and hearers, of that day would proclaim this Divine Victory Over Death. Going throughout the centuries, till today and as the earth remains. This Proclamation Is The Most Profound Earthly Miracle; involving a sinful being (mankind). After JESUS thanked HIS Father, HE entered unto the sepulcher’s doorway. Cried out in a loud voice, which shook the earth beneath them. There was total quietness. The birds stopped singing; everything was silenced.
“Lazarus Come Forth!” JESUS’s Voice was clear and penetrating, pierces throughout the surrounding areas. As He speaks, there is Divinity upon HIS Face; The Glory Of GOD shines forth upon HIM. The people are frightened and unmoveable to partake of this colossial event. Every eye is fastened. Every ear is bent to hear a sound from within. The evidence to substantiate His Son-ship.
There is a movement, coming forth from within. Stirring from the chambers of the grave, there now appears one whom has been dead. The gravelinens are impeding the movements of the awakened deceased. Christ demands to some of the astonished spectators to, “Loose him!”, and “Let him go!” Again, they are shown that their co-operation with GOD is essential against death’s lingering hold. Humanity is to work among humanity. Lazarus is set free. His bindings are removed by human hands. The Divine Saviour through GOD; has set him free from sata’s death. Physical death is not holding for Lazarus now. Lazarus is also physically healed whole, from disease and degeneration. Now, standing before the viewers, completed in health and vitality. His eyes beaming with intelligence and livihood. Lazarus casts himself, in loving adoration, at JESUS’s Feet. These beholding are at first speechless with amazement. Then there follows an inexpressible scene of rejoicing and thanksgiving. Thanking GOD. Martha and Mary receive their beloved brother. Seeing it in; GOD’s Gift to them; thanking JESUS in joyous and heart expressed emotions. While the crowd increases with the absorbed excitement; The Saviour withdraws. The Life Giver is not found among them. The areas surrounding Bethany and into Jerusalem; and all throughout, this miracle; beyond all miracles, is eagerly publicized, as a wildfire, by the multitudes. There now, was the realization; that JESUS IS The SON Of GOD.
In the hidden background and shadows, within the Jewish Temple Court, the Jewish leaders still planned upon Christ’s Capture and Murder… Luke 10:38-42; John 11:1-44.
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A Doomed People…
Luke 17:11-19…
11.)And it came to pass; as He(JESUS) went to Jerusalem, and He passed through the midst of Samaria and Galilee.
12.)And as He entered into a certain village, there met Him ten men that were lepers, which stood afar off:
13.)And they lifted up their voices, and said, “JESUS, Master, have mercy upon us.”
14.)And when He saw them, He said unto them, “Go and shew(show) yourselves unto the priests.” And it came to pass, that, as they went,(journeyed there) they were cleansed(healed).
15.)And one of them, when he saw that he had been healed, turned back, and with a loud voice glorified (gave Thanks/praised) GOD.
16.)And he fell down on his face at JESUS’s Feet; giving Him Thanks: and he was a Samaritan(a people rejected by the Jews).
17.)And JESUS answering said, “Were there not ten cleansed? but where are the nine?”
18.)”There are not found that returned to give glory to GOD, save this stranger.”
19.)And He said unto him, “Arise, go thy way: thy faith hath made thee whole.”
Earth's Closing Hours 