The Remnant Online

The King of Kings => The Desire of Ages => Topic started by: Richard Myers on February 16, 2016, 09:38:04 AM

Title: The Desire of Ages--28--Levi-Matthew
Post by: Richard Myers on February 16, 2016, 09:38:04 AM

Levi-Matthew

Listen to  Levi-Matthew

         



     Of the Roman officials in Palestine, none were more hated than the publicans. The fact that the taxes were imposed by a foreign power was a continual irritation to the Jews, being a reminder that their independence had departed. And the taxgatherers were not merely the instruments of Roman oppression; they were extortioners on their own account, enriching themselves at the expense of the people. A Jew who accepted this office at the hands of the Romans was looked upon as betraying the honor of his nation. He was despised as an apostate, and was classed with the vilest of society.
     To this class belonged Levi-Matthew, who, after the four disciples at Gennesaret, was the next to be called to Christ's service. The Pharisees had judged Matthew according to his employment, but Jesus saw in this man a heart open for the reception of truth. Matthew had listened to the Saviour's teaching. As the convicting Spirit of God revealed his sinfulness, he longed to seek help from Christ; but he was accustomed to the exclusiveness of the rabbis, and had no thought that this Great Teacher would notice him. 
     Sitting at his toll booth one day, the publican saw Jesus approaching. Great was his astonishment to hear the words addressed to himself, "Follow Me."
     Matthew "left all, rose up, and followed Him." There was no hesitation, no questioning, no thought of the lucrative business to be exchanged for poverty and hardship. It was enough for him that he was to be with Jesus, that he might listen to His words, and unite with Him in His work. 
     So it was with the disciples previously called. When Jesus bade Peter and his companions follow Him, immediately they left their boats and nets. Some of these disciples had friends dependent on them for support; but when they received the Saviour's invitation, they did not hesitate, and inquire, How shall I live, and sustain my family? They were obedient to the call; and when afterward Jesus asked them, "When I sent you without purse, and scrip, and shoes, lacked ye anything?" they could answer, "Nothing." Luke 22:35. 
     To Matthew in his wealth, and to Andrew and Peter in their poverty, the same test was brought; the same consecration was made by each. At the moment of success, when the nets were filled with fish, and the impulses of the old life were strongest, Jesus asked the disciples at the sea to leave all for the work of the gospel. So every soul is tested as to whether the desire for temporal good or for fellowship with Christ is strongest.
     Principle is always exacting. No man can succeed in the service of God unless his whole heart is in the work and he counts all things but loss for the excellency of the knowledge of Christ. No man who makes any reserve can be the disciple of Christ, much less can he be His colaborer. When men appreciate the great salvation, the self-sacrifice seen in Christ's life will be seen in theirs. Wherever He leads the way, they will rejoice to follow. 
     The calling of Matthew to be one of Christ's disciples excited great indignation. For a religious teacher to choose a publican as one of his immediate attendants was an offense against the religious, social, and national customs. By appealing to the prejudices of the people the Pharisees hoped to turn the current of popular feeling against Jesus. 
     Among the publicans a widespread interest was created. Their hearts were drawn toward the divine Teacher. In the joy of his new discipleship, Matthew longed to bring his former associates to Jesus. Accordingly he made a feast at his own house, and called together his relatives and friends. Not only were publicans included, but many others who were of doubtful reputation, and were proscribed by their more scrupulous neighbors.
     The entertainment was given in honor of Jesus, and He did not hesitate to accept the courtesy. He well knew that this would give offense to the Pharisaic party, and would also compromise Him in the eyes of the people. But no question of policy could influence His movements. With Him external distinctions weighed nothing. That which appealed to His heart was a soul thirsting for the water of life. 
     Jesus sat as an honored guest at the table of the publicans, by His sympathy and social kindliness showing that He recognized the dignity of humanity; and men longed to become worthy of His confidence. Upon their thirsty hearts His words fell with blessed, life-giving power. New impulses were awakened, and the possibility of a new life opened to these outcasts of society.   
     At such gatherings as this, not a few were impressed by the Saviour's teaching who did not acknowledge Him until after His ascension. When the Holy Spirit was poured out, and three thousand were converted in a day, there were among them many who first heard the truth at the table of the publicans, and some of these became messengers of the gospel. To Matthew himself the example of Jesus at the feast was a constant lesson. The despised publican became one of the most devoted evangelists, in his own ministry following closely in his Master's steps. 
     When the rabbis learned of the presence of Jesus at Matthew's feast, they seized the opportunity of accusing Him. But they chose to work through the disciples. By arousing their prejudices they hoped to alienate them from their Master. It was their policy to accuse Christ to the disciples, and the disciples to Christ, aiming their arrows where they would be most likely to wound. This is the way in which Satan has worked ever since the disaffection in heaven; and all who try to cause discord and alienation are actuated by his spirit. 
     "Why eateth your Master with publicans and sinners?" questioned the envious rabbis.
     Jesus did not wait for His disciples to answer the charge, but Himself replied: "They that be whole need not a physician, but they that are sick. But go ye and learn what that meaneth, I will have mercy, and not sacrifice: for I am not come to call the righteous, but sinners to repentance." The Pharisees claimed to be spiritually whole, and therefore in no need of a physician, while they regarded the publicans and Gentiles as perishing from diseases of the soul. Then was it not His work, as a physician, to go to the very class that needed His help? 
     But although the Pharisees thought so highly of themselves, they were really in a worse condition than the ones they despised. The publicans were less bigoted and self-sufficient, and thus were more open to the influence of truth. Jesus said to the rabbis, "Go ye and learn what that meaneth, I will have mercy, and not sacrifice." Thus He showed that while they claimed to expound the word of God, they were wholly ignorant of its spirit. 
     The Pharisees were silenced for the time, but only became more determined in their enmity. They next sought out the disciples of John the Baptist, and tried to set them against the Saviour. These Pharisees had not accepted the mission of the Baptist. They had pointed in scorn to his abstemious life, his simple habits, his coarse garments, and had declared him a fanatic. Because he denounced their hypocrisy, they had resisted his words, and had tried to stir up the people against him. The Spirit of God had moved upon the hearts of these scorners, convicting them of sin; but they had rejected the counsel of God, and had declared that John was possessed of a devil. 
     Now when Jesus came mingling with the people, eating and drinking at their tables, they accused Him of being a glutton and a winebibber. The very ones who made this charge were themselves guilty. As God is misrepresented, and clothed by Satan with his own attributes, so the Lord's messengers were falsified by these wicked men. 
     The Pharisees would not consider that Jesus was eating with publicans and sinners in order to bring the light of heaven to those who sat in darkness. They would not see that every word dropped by the divine Teacher was a living seed that would germinate and bear fruit to the glory of God. They had determined not to accept the light; and although they had opposed the mission of the Baptist, they were now ready to court the friendship of his disciples, hoping to secure their co-operation against Jesus. They represented that Jesus was setting at nought the ancient traditions; and they contrasted the austere piety of the Baptist with the course of Jesus in feasting with publicans and sinners. 
     The disciples of John were at this time in great sorrow. It was before their visit to Jesus with John's message. Their beloved teacher was in prison, and they passed their days in mourning. And Jesus was making no effort to release John, and even appeared to cast discredit on his teaching. If John had been sent by God, why did Jesus and His disciples pursue a course so widely different? 
     The disciples of John had not a clear understanding of Christ's work; they thought there might be some foundation for the charges of the Pharisees. They observed many of the rules prescribed by the rabbis, and even hoped to be justified by the works of the law. Fasting was practiced by the Jews as an act of merit, and the most rigid among them fasted two days in every week. The Pharisees and John's disciples were fasting when the latter came to Jesus with the inquiry, "Why do we and the Pharisees fast oft, but Thy disciples fast not?" 
     Very tenderly Jesus answered them. He did not try to correct their erroneous conception of fasting, but only to set them right in regard to His own mission. And He did this by employing the same figure that the Baptist himself had used in his testimony to Jesus. John had said, "He that hath the bride is the bridegroom: but the friend of the bridegroom, which standeth and heareth him, rejoiceth greatly because of the bridegroom's voice: this my joy therefore is fulfilled." John 3:29. The disciples of John could not fail to recall these words of their teacher, as, taking up the illustration, Jesus said, "Can ye make the children of the bridechamber fast, while the bridegroom is with them?" 
     The Prince of heaven was among His people. The greatest gift of God had been given to the world. Joy to the poor; for Christ had come to make them heirs of His kingdom. Joy to the rich; for He would teach them how to secure eternal riches. Joy to the ignorant; He would make them wise unto salvation. Joy to the learned; He would open to them deeper mysteries than they had ever fathomed; truths that had been hidden from the foundation of the world would be opened to men by the Saviour's mission.
     John the Baptist had rejoiced to behold the Saviour. What occasion for rejoicing had the disciples who were privileged to walk and talk with the Majesty of heaven! This was not a time for them to mourn and fast. They must open their hearts to receive the light of His glory, that they might shed light upon those who sat in darkness and in the shadow of death. 
     It was a bright picture which the words of Christ had called up, but across it lay a heavy shadow, which His eye alone discerned. "The days will come," He said, "when the bridegroom shall be taken away from them, and then shall they fast in those days." When they should see their Lord betrayed and crucified, the disciples would mourn and fast. In His last words to them in the upper chamber, He said, "A little while, and ye shall not see Me: and again, a little while, and ye shall see Me. Verily, verily, I say unto you, That ye shall weep and lament, but the world shall rejoice: and ye shall be sorrowful, but your sorrow shall be turned into joy." John 16:19, 20. 
     When He should come forth from the tomb, their sorrow would be turned to joy. After His ascension He was to be absent in person; but through the Comforter He would still be with them, and they were not to spend their time in mourning. This was what Satan wanted. He desired them to give the world the impression that they had been deceived and disappointed; but by faith they were to look to the sanctuary above, where Jesus was ministering for them; they were to open their hearts to the Holy Spirit, His representative, and to rejoice in the light of His presence. Yet days of temptation and trial would come, when they would be brought into conflict with the rulers of this world, and the leaders of the kingdom of darkness; when Christ was not personally with them, and they failed to discern the Comforter, then it would be more fitting for them to fast.
     The Pharisees sought to exalt themselves by their rigorous observance of forms, while their hearts were filled with envy and strife. "Behold," says the Scripture, "ye fast for strife and debate, and to smite with the fist of wickedness: ye shall not fast as ye do this day, to make your voice to be heard on high. Is it such a fast that I have chosen? a day for a man to afflict his soul? is it to bow down his head as a bulrush, and to spread sackcloth and ashes under him? wilt thou call this a fast, and an acceptable day to the Lord?" Isaiah 58:4, 5. 
     The true fast is no mere formal service. The Scripture describes the fast that God has chosen,--"to loose the bands of wickedness, to undo the heavy burdens, and to let the oppressed go free, and that ye break every yoke;" to "draw out thy soul to the hungry, and satisfy the afflicted soul." Isaiah 58:6, 10. Here is set forth the very spirit and character of the work of Christ. His whole life was a sacrifice of Himself for the saving of the world. Whether fasting in the wilderness of temptation or eating with the publicans at Matthew's feast, He was giving His life for the redemption of the lost. Not in idle mourning, in mere bodily humiliation and multitudinous sacrifices, is the true spirit of devotion manifested, but it is shown in the surrender of self in willing service to God and man. 
     Continuing His answer to the disciples of John, Jesus spoke a parable, saying, "No man putteth a piece of a new garment upon an old; if otherwise, then both the new maketh a rent, and the piece that was taken out of the new agreeth not with the old." The message of John the Baptist was not to be interwoven with tradition and superstition. An attempt to blend the pretense of the Pharisees with the devotion of John would only make more evident the breach between them. 
     Nor could the principles of Christ's teaching be united with the forms of Pharisaism. Christ was not to close up the breach that had been made by the teachings of John. He would make more distinct the separation between the old and the new. Jesus further illustrated this fact, saying, "No man putteth new wine into old bottles; else the new wine will burst the bottles, and be spilled, and the bottles shall perish." The skin bottles which were used as vessels to contain the new wine, after a time became dry and brittle, and were then worthless to serve the same purpose again. In this familiar illustration Jesus presented the condition of the Jewish leaders. Priests and scribes and rulers were fixed in a rut of ceremonies and traditions. Their hearts had become contracted, like the dried-up wine skins to which He had compared them. While they remained satisfied with a legal religion, it was impossible for them to become the depositaries of the living truth of heaven. They thought their own righteousness all-sufficient, and did not desire that a new element should be brought into their religion. The good will of God to men they did not accept as something apart from themselves. They connected it with their own merit because of their good works. The faith that works by love and purifies the soul could find no place for union with the religion of the Pharisees, made up of ceremonies and the injunctions of men. The effort to unite the teachings of Jesus with the established religion would be vain. The vital truth of God, like fermenting wine, would burst the old, decaying bottles of the Pharisaical tradition. 
     The Pharisees thought themselves too wise to need instruction, too righteous to need salvation, too highly honored to need the honor that comes from Christ. The Saviour turned away from them to find others who would receive the message of heaven. In the untutored fishermen, in the publican at the market place, in the woman of Samaria, in the common people who heard Him gladly, He found His new bottles for the new wine. The instrumentalities to be used in the gospel work are those souls who gladly receive the light which God sends them. These are His agencies for imparting the knowledge of truth to the world. If through the grace of Christ His people will become new bottles, He will fill them with new wine. 
     The teaching of Christ, though it was represented by the new wine, was not a new doctrine, but the revelation of that which had been taught from the beginning. But to the Pharisees the truth of God had lost its original significance and beauty. To them Christ's teaching was new in almost every respect, and it was unrecognized and unacknowledged. 
     Jesus pointed out the power of false teaching to destroy the appreciation and desire for truth. "No man," He said, "having drunk old wine straightway desireth new: for he saith, The old is better." All the truth that has been given to the world through patriarchs and prophets shone out in new beauty in the words of Christ. But the scribes and Pharisees had no desire for the precious new wine. Until emptied of the old traditions, customs, and practices, they had no place in mind or heart for the teachings of Christ. They clung to the dead forms, and turned away from the living truth and the power of God. 
     It was this that proved the ruin of the Jews, and it will prove the ruin of many souls in our own day. Thousands are making the same mistake as did the Pharisees whom Christ reproved at Matthew's feast. Rather than give up some cherished idea, or discard some idol of opinion, many refuse the truth which comes down from the Father of light. They trust in self, and depend upon their own wisdom, and do not realize their spiritual poverty. They insist on being saved in some way by which they may perform some important work. When they see that there is no way of weaving self into the work, they reject the salvation provided. 
     A legal religion can never lead souls to Christ; for it is a loveless, Christless religion. Fasting or prayer that is actuated by a self-justifying spirit is an abomination in the sight of God. The solemn assembly for worship, the round of religious ceremonies, the external humiliation, the imposing sacrifice, proclaim that the doer of these things regards himself as righteous, and as entitled to heaven; but it is all a deception. Our own works can never purchase salvation. 
     As it was in the days of Christ, so it is now; the Pharisees do not know their spiritual destitution. To them comes the message, "Because thou sayest, I am rich, and increased with goods, and have need of nothing; and knowest not that thou art wretched, and miserable, and poor, and blind, and naked: I counsel thee to buy of Me gold tried in the fire, that thou mayest be rich; and white raiment, that thou mayest be clothed, and that the shame of thy nakedness do not appear." Revelation 3:17, 18. Faith and love are the gold tried in the fire. But with many the gold has become dim, and the rich treasure has been lost. The righteousness of Christ is to them as a robe unworn, a fountain untouched. To them it is said, "I have somewhat against thee, because thou hast left thy first love. Remember therefore from whence thou art fallen, and repent, and do the first works; or else I will come unto thee quickly, and will remove thy candlestick out of his place, except thou repent." Revelation 2:4, 5. 
     "The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit: a broken and a contrite heart, O God, Thou wilt not despise." Psalm 51:17. Man must be emptied of self before he can be, in the fullest sense, a believer in Jesus. When self is renounced, then the Lord can make man a new creature. New bottles can contain the new wine. The love of Christ will animate the believer with new life. In him who looks unto the Author and Finisher of our faith the character of Christ will be manifest.

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--28--Levi-Matthew
Post by: Richard Myers on February 17, 2016, 07:14:54 AM

If we were to spend a thoughtful hour a day contemplating the life of Christ, we would be converted daily. And, in reading a chapter a day from the Desire of Ages, we would also understand not only the simplicity fo the gospel, we would understand the message that will bring the Latter Rain.

In closing this chapter on Levi-Matthew, we find the truth about what conversion is and what it is not. We must born of the Spirit, we must have a new heart, we must have a cleansed heart that is emptied of ALL selfishness.

   "The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit: a broken and a contrite heart, O God, Thou wilt not despise." Psalm 51:17. Man must be emptied of self before he can be, in the fullest sense, a believer in Jesus. When self is renounced, then the Lord can make man a new creature. New bottles can contain the new wine. The love of Christ will animate the believer with new life. In him who looks unto the Author and Finisher of our faith the character of Christ will be manifest. 

Not tomorrow, not maybe if you live until the end, but today. It is the promise of Christ. " 36:26   A new heart also will I give you, and a new spirit will I put within you: and I will take away the stony heart out of your flesh, and I will give you an heart of flesh. 
"I will put my spirit within you, and cause you to walk in my statutes, and ye shall keep my judgments, and do them." Ezekiel 36:26.   

1 John
 3:7   Little children, let no man deceive you: he that doeth righteousness is righteous, even as he is righteous. 
 3:8   He that committeth sin is of the devil; for the devil sinneth from the beginning. For this purpose the Son of God was manifested, that he might destroy the works of the devil. 
 3:9   Whosoever is born of God doth not commit sin; for his seed remaineth in him: and he cannot sin, because he is born of God. 

The whole Bible says the same thing, but most professing Christians not only do not believe this, they will object strongly against it. This is because the church suffered today as it did when Christ came to this earth a human baby. The teachers have perverted the truth.

The next to last paragraph in the chapter better explains this:

As it was in the days of Christ, so it is now; the Pharisees do not know their spiritual destitution. To them comes the message, "Because thou sayest, I am rich, and increased with goods, and have need of nothing; and knowest not that thou art wretched, and miserable, and poor, and blind, and naked: I counsel thee to buy of Me gold tried in the fire, that thou mayest be rich; and white raiment, that thou mayest be clothed, and that the shame of thy nakedness do not appear." Revelation 3:17, 18. Faith and love are the gold tried in the fire. But with many the gold has become dim, and the rich treasure has been lost. The righteousness of Christ is to them as a robe unworn, a fountain untouched. To them it is said, "I have somewhat against thee, because thou hast left thy first love. Remember therefore from whence thou art fallen, and repent, and do the first works; or else I will come unto thee quickly, and will remove thy candlestick out of his place, except thou repent." Revelation 2:4, 5. 

Jesus is coming soon, there is no time to delay in making matters right. The Laodicean message is one of great promise, for it reveals what we need to do in order to be saved. We must repent. Jesus offers the three things we must buy of Him. What is the cost to purchase faith that works by love, the character of Christ, and the Holy Spirit? Is it too much to pay? No! They are offered free of charge, but we must give up our sin polluted hearts. By beholding Him we shall be changed daily by His Spirit (2 Cor. 3:18).

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--28--Levi-Matthew
Post by: Richard Myers on May 16, 2016, 06:16:54 AM

    When Jesus bade Peter and his companions follow Him, immediately they left their boats and nets. Some of these disciples had friends dependent on them for support; but when they received the Saviour's invitation, they did not hesitate, and inquire, How shall I live, and sustain my family? They were obedient to the call; and when afterward Jesus asked them, "When I sent you without purse, and scrip, and shoes, lacked ye anything?" they could answer, "Nothing." Luke 22:35. 

There are many who will argue against this evidence of faith. Why? Because they do not have such faith. There are some in the world who have done as these disciples did. And, in doing so, they have a cross to bear. But, that cross is light, as painful as it may be. God's faithful will be persecuted today as the prophets of old were. We are to be His witnesses in this. When things go well, we are His witnesses, but when things do not go well, we are even better witnesses as we abide in Christ. All of the fruits that the Spirit bring will be seen in the life no matter how bad things are. This is the Christian witness. Look at some of the true martyrs today.

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--28--Levi-Matthew
Post by: Pastor Sean Brizendine on May 16, 2016, 07:12:43 AM

I appreciate the posts that you have shared, Richard. Indeed, the great need of God's people at present is to experience revival and reformation--to have a faith that works by love and purifies the soul. How? By beholding the loveliness of Jesus--seeing one's own sinfulness in contrast, and surrendering all the heart to Christ for Him to purify and cleanse it.

Matthew-Levi is a beautiful example of what Christ can make of a man who, through full surrender of self, is willing to closely follow the Master Worker whose lessons and life are a constant testimony of self-sacrificing love. It is amazing how the gospel of Matthew comes to us from this very disciple, who, under the inspiration of the Holy Spirit, has written one of the most-loved and most-read of the four gospels. Matthew-Levi turned His heart fully over to Christ. While Peter and Andrew were called to Christ in their poverty, Matthew-Levi was called in his wealth--but all that this world can afford is in comparison as nothingness to what Christ offers.

The amazing thing is that what Christ offers as far as truth is concerned is actually nothing new--it is simply a reiteration of the very foundational principles of the gospel that have been sounded ever since humanity fell in the Garden of Eden, when, to Satan (who was using the medium of the serpent), Christ declared, "And I will put enmity between thee and the woman, and between thy seed and her seed; it shall bruise thy head, and thou shalt bruise his heel." (Genesis 3:15).  This promise to put enmity in the heart is the promise of the work of Christ by His Spirit to draw men to Himself, to implant in the heart that surrenders fully to Him a hatred for sin. We cannot repent apart from Christ, and we cannot be saved apart from a full surrender. Look to the cross of Christ and fully realize what selfishness costs the heart of God!

I was contemplating last night that Calvary's cross is an eternal reminder of the heinous character of selfishness, and that to uproot that satanic principle from our hearts, there was no other way for us to be saved than to "look and live"--to see the love of God in contrast to the lusts and passions of the flesh. In Christ alone is there freedom (the divine power through the Holy Spirit) from yielding to the clamors of the fallen nature. The truth of the gospel remains unchanged. But God sends more light to show us His truth more clearly as the deceptions have multiplied. Let us be so thankful for the Bible, the Spirit of Prophecy, and especially the revelation of Christ in The Desire of Ages!!!

We see this truth brought out clearly in this chapter:

"The teaching of Christ, though it was represented by the new wine, was not a new doctrine, but the revelation of that which had been taught from the beginning. But to the Pharisees the truth of God had lost its original significance and beauty. To them Christ's teaching was new in almost every respect, and it was unrecognized and unacknowledged." {DA 279.2}

What Christ is offering today may seem new and strange because it is so common to hear that a person can still retain justification while they commit a known sin. But sin reveals a separation from God (Isaiah 59:2). We are either Christ's entirely, or none of His. We either are abiding in Christ by His Spirit, living a life of willing obedience through complete self-surrender, or we are retaining our own ways and living by the works of the flesh. There is no middle ground. It is that sense of being "saved in sin" that leads so many to fail to discern that the Laodicean message is specifically addressed to them (see Revelation 3:14-21). While many would not openly say you can sin and be saved, there are many ways in which sin is excused. Yet Christ offers something better than our own ways. He offers us freedom through a living connection with Him. And when we are experiencing that living connection by faith in Him, He makes it evident by filling us with the fruits of His Spirit (so not one is missing) and leading us to obediently practice every known statute of truth that He has revealed to us. Look to Jesus--and live!

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--28--Levi-Matthew
Post by: Richard Myers on August 11, 2016, 06:30:59 AM

Amen, Pastor Sean!  It is not a new doctrine we are continually sharing and read about today, it is the same gospel preached by the prophets from the beginning. What is the good news? It is the truth that by beholding the loveliness of Jesus, we are changed into His character (2 Cor. 3:18).  Grace is the transforming power that turns sinners into saints. There is great miracle working power in love. When we discover we are in bondage to sin (Romans 7), we then are pointed to Jesus as the only power to set us free (Romans 8:2). "For the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus hath made me free from the law of sin and death." We must free ourselves from the false teaching on what it means to be "in Christ Jesus." We must learn that the whole heart must be given to Him that we might be set free from the sin that so easily besets us. We ought not resist the ones sent to speak to us as did Jesus to Nicodemus when He told Him his true condition (John 3). "Now no chastening for the present seemeth to be joyous, but grievous: nevertheless afterward it yieldeth the peaceable fruit of righteousness unto them which are exercised thereby." Hebrews  12:12.   It is the result of allowing Jesus into our hearts. Then we are "in Christ Jesus" and He in us.

As a people, we remain in a Laodicean condition not knowing our true standing before God. As a people, we remain in bondage to sin thinking we are saved. Such a deception! It is not fatal if we will take time to behold the "gold tried in the fire."

     As it was in the days of Christ, so it is now; the Pharisees do not know their spiritual destitution. To them comes the message, "Because thou sayest, I am rich, and increased with goods, and have need of nothing; and knowest not that thou art wretched, and miserable, and poor, and blind, and naked: I counsel thee to buy of Me gold tried in the fire, that thou mayest be rich; and white raiment, that thou mayest be clothed, and that the shame of thy nakedness do not appear." Revelation 3:17, 18. Faith and love are the gold tried in the fire. But with many the gold has become dim, and the rich treasure has been lost. The righteousness of Christ is to them as a robe unworn, a fountain untouched. To them it is said, "I have somewhat against thee, because thou hast left thy first love. Remember therefore from whence thou art fallen, and repent, and do the first works; or else I will come unto thee quickly, and will remove thy candlestick out of his place, except thou repent." Revelation 2:4, 5.
     "The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit: a broken and a contrite heart, O God, Thou wilt not despise." Psalm 51:17. Man must be emptied of self before he can be, in the fullest sense, a believer in Jesus. When self is renounced, then the Lord can make man a new creature. New bottles can contain the new wine. The love of Christ will animate the believer with new life. In him who looks unto the Author and Finisher of our faith the character of Christ will be manifest.

Not at the end of one's life, not at the end of the world, but just as soon as the soul surrenders itself completely to the love of God, the character of Christ will be manifest in the repentant sinner! It is the greatest miracle God can perform, to turn a sinner into a saint!!

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--28--Levi-Matthew
Post by: Pastor Sean Brizendine on August 11, 2016, 08:06:27 AM

Praise the Lord, Richard! Jesus is willing to perform this miracle in the soul of every one who comes to Him. He is no respecter of persons, and calls all to repentance. Let us like Levi-Matthew be willing to leave all for the call Christ has on us. How? By beholding Jesus' perfect, lovely character, the matchless charms of His divine grace. We will see ourselves as we really are--as those who continually are in need of Jesus. A saint is a new creation, who before surrendering entirely to Jesus was living a selfish life of sin. But the old ways must be constantly kept under by divine grace--righteousness by faith can only be begun and maintained by the vital connection of the soul with Christ through the impartation of the Holy Spirit--by abiding!

As we work for souls in connection with Christ, let us like Christ never become discouraged because we do not see immediate fruit from our labor. Let us remember the way Christ consistently sowed the principles of true righteousness by faith, which would bear fruit as hearts would surrender fully to the Holy Spirit:

At such gatherings as this, not a few were impressed by the Saviour's teaching who did not acknowledge Him until after His ascension. When the Holy Spirit was poured out, and three thousand were converted in a day, there were among them many who first heard the truth at the table of the publicans, and some of these became messengers of the gospel. To Matthew himself the example of Jesus at the feast was a constant lesson. The despised publican became one of the most devoted evangelists, in his own ministry following closely in his Master's steps. 

There is a valuable lesson here--and that is that we are not to judge people's hearts by what we see on the outside. Christ discerned that in Levi-Matthew was a heart that was susceptible to the influence of divine grace, and the call addressed to Him was not in vain. Let us pray that Christ's patient, wooing ministry of love by His Spirit and His angels will not be in vain for us, and that we in union and communion with Christ may go forth to share the love that we are experiencing daily in spending this "thoughtful hour" in contemplation of the life of Christ. What joy we have in seeing Jesus so clearly together!

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--28--Levi-Matthew
Post by: Richard Myers on November 06, 2016, 05:21:38 AM

Amen, Pastor Sean!    It is the heart that God wants. Jesus tells us that the evidence of love for Him are the fruits of the Spirit. When one is born of the Spirit, he manifests the fruits of the Spirit, not one is missing. This is the evidence the one responsible for baptizing must find so that one is not buried alive. But, in this chapter we are not talking about finding those already converted, but not judging those who appear hopeless. Who can know the heart of the unbeliever? Is it ready to be purified? Is the sinner tired of sin? Who can know, not us.

Which is easier to convert, a Laodicean or a harlot? Which is more open to truth, one who is cold or lukewarm?


   "The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit: a broken and a contrite heart, O God, Thou wilt not despise." Psalm 51:17. Man must be emptied of self before he can be, in the fullest sense, a believer in Jesus. When self is renounced, then the Lord can make man a new creature. New bottles can contain the new wine. The love of Christ will animate the believer with new life. In him who looks unto the Author and Finisher of our faith the character of Christ will be manifest.

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--28--Levi-Matthew
Post by: Pastor Sean Brizendine on November 06, 2016, 01:29:50 PM

Quote from: Richard Myers on November 06, 2016, 05:21:38 AM

Amen, Pastor Sean!    It is the heart that God wants. Jesus tells us that the evidence of love for Him are the fruits of the Spirit. When one is born of the Spirit, he manifests the fruits of the Spirit, not one is missing. This is the evidence the one responsible for baptizing must find so that one is not buried alive. But, in this chapter we are not talking about finding those already converted, but not judging those who appear hopeless. Who can know the heart of the unbeliever? Is it ready to be purified? Is the sinner tired of sin? Who can know, not us.

Which is easier to convert, a Laodicean or a harlot? Which is more open to truth, one who is cold or lukewarm?

I appreciate your post and your questions, Richard. If I am out in the cold in Michigan's Upper Peninsula, I am VERY willing to ask for help to get warm, heated up. But if I am lukewarm, I may feel no need. So it is with spiritual things.

A harlot or open sinner is more readily converted quite often if the loveliness of Jesus is truly presented to them--because they see their need. But a Laodicean who feels "saved" without a living connection with Christ may not desire something greater, because they do not feel the need. The reception of a mixture of truth and error causes one to lose their hunger for the genuine.

Jesus pointed out the power of false teaching to destroy the appreciation and desire for truth. "No man," He said, "having drunk old wine straightway desireth new: for he saith, The old is better." All the truth that has been given to the world through patriarchs and prophets shone out in new beauty in the words of Christ. But the scribes and Pharisees had no desire for the precious new wine. Until emptied of the old traditions, customs, and practices, they had no place in mind or heart for the teachings of Christ. They clung to the dead forms, and turned away from the living truth and the power of God. 

Let us cry out to Jesus that He will not only help us to see His loveliness and truth, but that He will create in our hearts a true relish for truth and a desire to share with others what a precious friend we have found in Jesus--just like Levi-Matthew!

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--28--Levi-Matthew
Post by: Pastor Sean Brizendine on February 01, 2017, 05:27:00 AM

This morning I reflect on the contrast between the way the rich young ruler went away sorrowful, and yet Christ had something better to give him. How encouraging to see Levi-Matthew, a rich man, choose to leave all to follow Christ and receive true riches! What a joy to know that the gospel of His grace can change ALL HEARTS that are fully yielded to Him!

 The Prince of heaven was among His people. The greatest gift of God had been given to the world. Joy to the poor; for Christ had come to make them heirs of His kingdom. Joy to the rich; for He would teach them how to secure eternal riches. Joy to the ignorant; He would make them wise unto salvation. Joy to the learned; He would open to them deeper mysteries than they had ever fathomed; truths that had been hidden from the foundation of the world would be opened to men by the Saviour's mission.

Let us treasure up the truths of God's word as revealed in Christ, and value His infinite love!

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--28--Levi-Matthew
Post by: Richard Myers on February 01, 2017, 07:42:21 AM

Amen, Pastor Sean. Jesus wants to teach us all how to secure "eternal riches."  That leads one's mind to compare the riches offered in this world to the riches Christ offers to all who will give up the things of this world, for Him. Whether it be houses and lands, cars and fashionable clothes, whether fame or fortune, in order to inherit heavenly riches we must give up our pride and the love of this world for Christ. If we do not come to the point of loving Jesus with the whole heart, soul, and mind, we shall not receive the heavenly riches.

It would be good to contemplate what those heavenly gifts are that are being lost by selfishness. Do we hate sin? Do we enjoy the nasty people in this world? Have we become so accustomed to the sin that surrounds us that we don't mind living here? How much do we hate the selfishness we see that leads to death? Do we hate the selfishness in our own flesh? When we want God more than sin, then we will spend more time with Jesus than we do in seeking the things of this world. Then, we may have a clearer picture of the things which we cannot see which are eternal. Even before entering heaven, we may have a taste of heaven here, for heaven begins on this earth. When we learn to love Jesus with the whole heart, He will cleanse our evil hearts and fill them with every one of the fruits of the Spirit. When we abide in Christ, He abides in us through His Representative, the Holy Spirit. Love, joy, peace, long-suffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, meekness, and temperance all will be seen in the life, not one of these will be missing when we are converted, when the heart is cleansed whiter than snow.

Do we cherish this, the character of Christ, the white raiment promised? In today's reading, it is made abundantly clear this is what Jesus wants for us, today. Not, tomorrow or at the end of this world's history as some teach, but today. Few understand the power of grace to transform the character at the point of conversion. Therefore, they do not understand it is the only way one may secure the riches of Christ and an eternity of love, peace, and joy. Christ wants the whole heart, then we will understand the kingdom of God begins now.

     Matthew "left all, rose up, and followed Him." There was no hesitation, no questioning, no thought of the lucrative business to be exchanged for poverty and hardship. It was enough for him that he was to be with Jesus, that he might listen to His words, and unite with Him in His work.
     So it was with the disciples previously called. When Jesus bade Peter and his companions follow Him, immediately they left their boats and nets. Some of these disciples had friends dependent on them for support; but when they received the Saviour's invitation, they did not hesitate, and inquire, How shall I live, and sustain my family? They were obedient to the call; and when afterward Jesus asked them, "When I sent you without purse, and scrip, and shoes, lacked ye anything?" they could answer, "Nothing." Luke 22:35.
     To Matthew in his wealth, and to Andrew and Peter in their poverty, the same test was brought; the same consecration was made by each. At the moment of success, when the nets were filled with fish, and the impulses of the old life were strongest, Jesus asked the disciples at the sea to leave all for the work of the gospel. So every soul is tested as to whether the desire for temporal good or for fellowship with Christ is strongest.
     Principle is always exacting. No man can succeed in the service of God unless his whole heart is in the work and he counts all things but loss for the excellency of the knowledge of Christ. No man who makes any reserve can be the disciple of Christ, much less can he be His colaborer. When men appreciate the great salvation, the self-sacrifice seen in Christ's life will be seen in theirs. Wherever He leads the way, they will rejoice to follow. 

And thus we see what it is that we must do in order to obtain the "pearl of great price."  We must appreciate the salvation offered and the cost that makes it available. And, how do we come to this understanding? You are doing it now. Those who are reading with us, are learning about the "self-sacrifice seen in Christ's life" and what salvation is. The knowledge of God and the plan of salvation are opened to our blind eyes so that we may see. Let us rejoice in the light so brightly shining upon our path. It is by beholding Jesus that we are being changed into His character day by day. Yes, after we obtain the wedding garment, we continue to develop a stronger character that we might more perfectly reflect our Master. This is our joy to be His witnesses in a world soon to perish.

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--28--Levi-Matthew
Post by: Pastor Sean Brizendine on April 29, 2017, 05:17:44 AM

I love Jesus and seeing how He taught and dealt with error. Rather than be combative, He was planting truth that would counteract error once the truth was appreciated and understood. So we should learn to teach and implant truth that will help the soul to see light in contrast with the darkness of error and tradition.

Very tenderly Jesus answered them. He did not try to correct their erroneous conception of fasting, but only to set them right in regard to His own mission. And He did this by employing the same figure that the Baptist himself had used in his testimony to Jesus. John had said, "He that hath the bride is the bridegroom: but the friend of the bridegroom, which standeth and heareth him, rejoiceth greatly because of the bridegroom's voice: this my joy therefore is fulfilled." John 3:29. The disciples of John could not fail to recall these words of their teacher, as, taking up the illustration, Jesus said, "Can ye make the children of the bridechamber fast, while the bridegroom is with them?" 

Jesus chose to focus on what was important--His mission. Well would it be for us to put the emphasis where it belongs as we seek to teach and help others who are in error. May we deal very tenderly with them, as we allow Christ to abide in our hearts through an entire surrender!

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--28--Levi-Matthew
Post by: Richard Myers on April 29, 2017, 05:58:22 AM

We want to be filled with the Spirit at all times. We seek not to war against man, but against self and the great deceiver. It is a spiritual battle. The evil in the world and in the church comes in through those who love not the truth, nor the God of truth. We are to be looking for those seeking truth. The majority of the Pharisees were not seeking truth. So it is today. What does Jesus have to say about these poor lost souls? Do we neglect them?

   As it was in the days of Christ, so it is now; the Pharisees do not know their spiritual destitution. To them comes the message, "Because thou sayest, I am rich, and increased with goods, and have need of nothing; and knowest not that thou art wretched, and miserable, and poor, and blind, and naked: I counsel thee to buy of Me gold tried in the fire, that thou mayest be rich; and white raiment, that thou mayest be clothed, and that the shame of thy nakedness do not appear." Revelation 3:17, 18. Faith and love are the gold tried in the fire. But with many the gold has become dim, and the rich treasure has been lost. The righteousness of Christ is to them as a robe unworn, a fountain untouched. To them it is said, "I have somewhat against thee, because thou hast left thy first love. Remember therefore from whence thou art fallen, and repent, and do the first works; or else I will come unto thee quickly, and will remove thy candlestick out of his place, except thou repent." Revelation 2:4, 5.
     "The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit: a broken and a contrite heart, O God, Thou wilt not despise." Psalm 51:17. Man must be emptied of self before he can be, in the fullest sense, a believer in Jesus. When self is renounced, then the Lord can make man a new creature. New bottles can contain the new wine. The love of Christ will animate the believer with new life. In him who looks unto the Author and Finisher of our faith the character of Christ will be manifest.

It is the heart Jesus wants, the whole heart. There is a curse resting upon all who are teaching a false gospel. But, many of the priests in Christ's day were converted after the cross. So, we pray it will be in our day. The Laodicean message will bring about revival and reformation in the church for all who are seeking the truth.

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--28--Levi-Matthew
Post by: Pastor Sean Brizendine on July 25, 2017, 06:38:14 AM

May we today choose to behold Jesus' loveliness so that He may give us a complete surrender of self moment-by-moment to do the will of God!

     The true fast is no mere formal service. The Scripture describes the fast that God has chosen,--"to loose the bands of wickedness, to undo the heavy burdens, and to let the oppressed go free, and that ye break every yoke;" to "draw out thy soul to the hungry, and satisfy the afflicted soul." Isaiah 58:6, 10. Here is set forth the very spirit and character of the work of Christ. His whole life was a sacrifice of Himself for the saving of the world. Whether fasting in the wilderness of temptation or eating with the publicans at Matthew's feast, He was giving His life for the redemption of the lost. Not in idle mourning, in mere bodily humiliation and multitudinous sacrifices, is the true spirit of devotion manifested, but it is shown in the surrender of self in willing service to God and man.

Only through an abiding connection with Christ is this possible!

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--28--Levi-Matthew
Post by: Richard Myers on July 25, 2017, 07:18:26 AM

Amen, Pastor Sean. Over and over again, from Genesis to Revelation and in each chapter of this most beautiful revelation of our Lord, we hear the same message. God loves us and He wants our hearts. He wants the whole heart. If we will learn of Him who gave all for us, we will give Him the whole heart.

     When self is renounced, then the Lord can make man a new creature. New bottles can contain the new wine. The love of Christ will animate the believer with new life. In him who looks unto the Author and Finisher of our faith the character of Christ will be manifest.

How can we come to the point of renouncing self, of being truly converted?  It is God's love for us that does it. As we behold the loveliness of Jesus we are transformed in character. If we will look unto the Author and Finisher of our faith, we will  become like Him in character. That is to say, we will manifest His character (2 Cor. 3:18). Such a promise!!

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--28--Levi-Matthew
Post by: Pastor Sean Brizendine on October 20, 2017, 07:44:09 AM

The opportunity we have to manifest Christ's character is immense and incredible when we realize what we are apart from Him. We are enemies of God by nature--our fallen human nature is justly condemned by a holy God--and yet He came from His throne of indescribable glory to be born as our Brother, live a life of perfect loving obedience by faith, and then die as our Sacrifice! He rose again and ministers for us now in the sanctuary in heaven to give us power to overcome as we behold Him.

Recently I heard a message about the properties of light in connection with the character of God, for "God is light" (1 John 1:5). White light contains three colors--red, blue, and green. The presentation shared how the red is connected with scarlet/sacrifice--hence, self-sacrificing love (Matthew 26:28--Jesus shed His blood for us); the blue is connected with obedience (the Israelites, to remind them of their connection with God through obedience, were to have on their garments a "ribband of blue" Numbers 15:38), and the green is linked with faith ("The green cord represented faith" {Early Writings, page 81, paragraph 1}.) Of the three, faith is the only one that we each receive a measure of, as Romans 12:3 states. The other two elements (lost when Adam and Eve fell) must be restored through beholding Christ and allowing Him to work in us true self-sacrificing love and obedience as we surrender our will to Him continually. When we live by faith on the Son of God, the fruits of the Spirit are revealed in our lives without one missing--the spectrum of these fruits is none other than being clothed with the light of God's character. Let us look to Jesus!

"'The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit: a broken and a contrite heart, O God, Thou wilt not despise.' Psalm 51:17. Man must be emptied of self before he can be, in the fullest sense, a believer in Jesus. When self is renounced, then the Lord can make man a new creature. New bottles can contain the new wine. The love of Christ will animate the believer with new life. In him who looks unto the Author and Finisher of our faith the character of Christ will be manifest." {The Desire of Ages, page 280, paragraph 4} 

By beholding Christ continually, losing sight of ourselves in the amazing revelation of Jesus' loveliness and purity of character, we realize our continual need of Him and grow in His grace--a grace that will elevate and bless those with whom we come in contact. God is faithful! 

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--28--Levi-Matthew
Post by: Richard Myers on October 20, 2017, 11:59:22 AM

Amen, Pastor Sean! How could we not love Jesus with the whole heart when we know Him as it is our privilege to know Him. His love draws us to Him.

And when we love Him we keep His commandments which builds an ever stronger character to reflect Him more perfectly. I liked this statement also:

   Jesus pointed out the power of false teaching to destroy the appreciation and desire for truth. "No man," He said, "having drunk old wine straightway desireth new: for he saith, The old is better." All the truth that has been given to the world through patriarchs and prophets shone out in new beauty in the words of Christ. But the scribes and Pharisees had no desire for the precious new wine. Until emptied of the old traditions, customs, and practices, they had no place in mind or heart for the teachings of Christ. They clung to the dead forms, and turned away from the living truth and the power of God. 

Let us who seek truth, find it in the inspired Word, not in the wisdom of man. Let us behold the life and teachings of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--28--Levi-Matthew
Post by: Pastor Sean Brizendine on January 15, 2018, 06:26:30 AM

If we are not fully surrendered to Jesus Christ, and yet seek to maintain the forms of religion and faith without a vital connection with Jesus continually, we are in a lost condition and need to realize how much Jesus loves us, and that we can do no good thing apart from Him. Matthew-Levi responded to Jesus' call to be His disciple (Matthew 9:9). But we must at every step keep our eyes fixed on Jesus by faith, continue to surrender fully to Him, and it is only as we do this that we can be saved out of a Laodicean condition of thinking we are saved when we are actually lost. The evidence of Christ's true indwelling in the soul by the Holy Spirit is how His self-sacrificing love is manifest in all of the fruits of the Spirit in our lives without one missing, as we gladly follow all the light of His law that we know, for Jesus said, "If ye love Me, keep my commandments" (John 14:15). Love is a motive the natural heart cannot produce--only Christ can implant this when we surrender fully, He gives us a new heart and a new mind, and He makes us partakers of the "divine nature" (2 Peter 1:4). Praise God for the power of His grace to help us see our need and respond to Jesus as our only remedy and hope!

As it was in the days of Christ, so it is now; the Pharisees do not know their spiritual destitution. To them comes the message, "Because thou sayest, I am rich, and increased with goods, and have need of nothing; and knowest not that thou art wretched, and miserable, and poor, and blind, and naked: I counsel thee to buy of Me gold tried in the fire, that thou mayest be rich; and white raiment, that thou mayest be clothed, and that the shame of thy nakedness do not appear." Revelation 3:17, 18. Faith and love are the gold tried in the fire. But with many the gold has become dim, and the rich treasure has been lost. The righteousness of Christ is to them as a robe unworn, a fountain untouched. To them it is said, "I have somewhat against thee, because thou hast left thy first love. Remember therefore from whence thou art fallen, and repent, and do the first works; or else I will come unto thee quickly, and will remove thy candlestick out of his place, except thou repent." Revelation 2:4, 5.  {The Desire of Ages, page 280, paragraph 3}
     "The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit: a broken and a contrite heart, O God, Thou wilt not despise." Psalm 51:17. Man must be emptied of self before he can be, in the fullest sense, a believer in Jesus. When self is renounced, then the Lord can make man a new creature. New bottles can contain the new wine. The love of Christ will animate the believer with new life. In him who looks unto the Author and Finisher of our faith the character of Christ will be manifest. {The Desire of Ages, page 280, paragraph 4}

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--28--Levi-Matthew
Post by: Richard Myers on January 15, 2018, 08:36:30 AM

Amen, Pastor Sean. God wants the whole heart. If we don't surrender all, then self remains alive and we will not have any of the fruits of the Spirit in the life because the Spirit is not in the heart.

Principle is always exacting. No man can succeed in the service of God unless his whole heart is in the work and he counts all things but loss for the excellency of the knowledge of Christ. No man who makes any reserve can be the disciple of Christ, much less can he be His colaborer. When men appreciate the great salvation, the self-sacrifice seen in Christ's life will be seen in theirs. Wherever He leads the way, they will rejoice to follow. 

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--28--Levi-Matthew
Post by: Dorine on January 15, 2018, 08:37:39 AM

Thank you Richard for the reading of this chapter. I followed along as you read and I was blest.
Many things touched me this morning but this one thing stood out.

"Matthew longed to bring his former associates to Jesus. Accordingly he made a feast at his own house, and called together his relatives and friends. Not only were publicans included, but many others who were of doubtful reputation, and were proscribed by their more scrupulous neighbors.........At such gatherings as this, not a few were impressed by the Saviour's teaching who did not acknowledge Him until after His ascension. When the Holy Spirit was poured out, and three thousand were converted in a day, there were among them many who first heard the truth at the table of the publicans, and some of these became messengers of the gospel. To Matthew himself the example of Jesus at the feast was a constant lesson. The despised publican became one of the most devoted evangelists, in his own ministry following closely in his Master's steps."

This truth should wipe away any pride or self righteousness that may be lurking in our hearts. I'm ashamed to say that there have been times in my past when I have given up on some or haven't even tried to reach them because they seemed so hopeless. Although God has taught me differently since then this chapter made me examine my heart once again. I love the part that says that at these gatherings there were many who were impressed by Jesus' teachings but did not acknowledge Him until after His resurrection. There may be those whose paths we have crossed that have accepted Jesus unbeknownst to us but will be in heaven. What a thrill that will be.

It matters not who we are, where we have been, what we have done; what matters is whether or not we are willing to forsake sin and surrender our whole heart to Christ because it is only then that He can make us into a new creature, which as Pastor Sean has pointed out, will reveal the fruits of the Spirit with not one missing. Do we really understand what that means.

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--28--Levi-Matthew
Post by: Richard Myers on January 15, 2018, 08:45:47 AM

Amen, dear Sister Dorine!  It means that when we are converted, we will love for whom Christ died, no matter how much they have hurt us. This is the evidence of a whole heart surrender to Christ. It may be that we cannot talk with someone, or even go near them, but that does not mean we can judge them, their future. We need to pray for those who despitefully use us. Even leaders in rebellion may be transformed. Saul of Tarsus is such an example.

It was the love that Stephen had for him, even though he was responsible for his death, that allowed the Spirit to reveal grace that eventually led to his conversion and his writing much of the New Testament! What a lesson for us!!

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--28--Levi-Matthew
Post by: Pastor Sean Brizendine on April 12, 2018, 04:25:34 AM

What we look at changes us. Whom we behold will influence us. But only Christ beheld has the power to truly transform us by a miracle of grace. This truth really hit me this morning in my devotions. I can look to other people, I can look at myself--but apart from Christ, there is no power to be changed in mind and character from the natural state of selfishness to selflessness. While I will become more like what I behold, it is only Christ beheld continually by faith who has the power to recreate me into His image. How does He do this? I must look and live, beholding the Lamb of God, who inspires me with contrition and gives me true repentance. Motivated by His infinite love, I choose to yield my will to Christ, and He comes to live in my heart and mind and imbues me with His Spirit so that love, joy, peace, long-suffering, gentleness, meekness, goodness, faith, and temperance (all the fruits of the Spirit) are manifest. This is a miracle of grace. He is writing a story in our lives, but if we take our eyes off the Author, the story is marred (thankfully He is amazingly good at fixing what we have messed up, because He is gracious). We are to look to Christ continually, realizing our continual need of Jesus abiding in the heart to do any good thing. By receiving His promises into our life experience, we become partakers of the divine nature!

  "The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit: a broken and a contrite heart, O God, Thou wilt not despise." Psalm 51:17. Man must be emptied of self before he can be, in the fullest sense, a believer in Jesus. When self is renounced, then the Lord can make man a new creature. New bottles can contain the new wine. The love of Christ will animate the believer with new life. In him who looks unto the Author and Finisher of our faith the character of Christ will be manifest. {The Desire of Ages, page 280, paragraph 4}

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--28--Levi-Matthew
Post by: Richard Myers on April 12, 2018, 04:52:40 AM

Amen Pastor Shawn. As I read this morning, I was greatly impressed that every chapter in this most wonderful book, reveals that we need to die to self. This chapter reveals the condition of the Seventh-day Adventist Church, as a people. Not all are Laodicean, but many are. And today's reading reveals just what a Laodicean is. Satan has deceived many in the church. A new meaning of what it means to be Laodicean has been brought into the church so that many believe they are saved when in fact, they are not. We must be born again of the Spirit, and if we are born again, saved, we will manifest the character of Christ. A radical new thought for many who have come into God's Remnant Church. But, Jesus does not depart from the church, nor does He leave the lost to suffer eternal damnation. No, He gives in the Laodicean message, the solution. Jesus offers us gold tried in the fire, which in today's reading tells us that this is faith that works by the love of God.

    As it was in the days of Christ, so it is now; the Pharisees do not know their spiritual destitution. To them comes the message, "Because thou sayest, I am rich, and increased with goods, and have need of nothing; and knowest not that thou art wretched, and miserable, and poor, and blind, and naked: I counsel thee to buy of Me gold tried in the fire, that thou mayest be rich; and white raiment, that thou mayest be clothed, and that the shame of thy nakedness do not appear." Revelation 3:17, 18. Faith and love are the gold tried in the fire. But with many the gold has become dim, and the rich treasure has been lost. The righteousness of Christ is to them as a robe unworn, a fountain untouched. To them it is said, "I have somewhat against thee, because thou hast left thy first love. Remember therefore from whence thou art fallen, and repent, and do the first works; or else I will come unto thee quickly, and will remove thy candlestick out of his place, except thou repent." Revelation 2:4, 5.
     "The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit: a broken and a contrite heart, O God, Thou wilt not despise." Psalm 51:17. Man must be emptied of self before he can be, in the fullest sense, a believer in Jesus. When self is renounced, then the Lord can make man a new creature. New bottles can contain the new wine. The love of Christ will animate the believer with new life. In him who looks unto the Author and Finisher of our faith the character of Christ will be manifest.

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--28--Levi-Matthew
Post by: Dorine on April 12, 2018, 06:16:52 AM

"Matthew "left all, rose up, and followed Him." There was no hesitation, no questioning, no thought of the lucrative business to be exchanged for poverty and hardship. It was enough for him that he was to be with Jesus, that he might listen to His words, and unite with Him in His work. .......To Matthew in his wealth, and to Andrew and Peter in their poverty, the same test was brought; the same consecration was made by each........So every soul is tested as to whether the desire for temporal good or for fellowship with Christ is strongest."     Principle is always exacting. No man can succeed in the service of God unless his whole heart is in the work and he counts all things but loss for the excellency of the knowledge of Christ........ When men appreciate the great salvation, the self-sacrifice seen in Christ's life will be seen in theirs. Wherever He leads the way, they will rejoice to follow."

Those that answered Christ's invitation to follow Him did not do so blindly. They had been beholding Him through His messages and acts of selfless love. Their hearts had been softened and convicted and they desired to know Him personally. Only the Holy Spirit knows when hearts are ready. That is why we must keep sowing the seed through our own lives so that souls will behold Jesus through us and be ready to answer the invitation to fully surrender their lives to Jesus. What a humbling thought to be used of God to bring souls to Him for the kingdom.  Not for knowledge alone but for a testimony of the transforming power of God to make new creatures in Him. Then they too will reflect His character and draw others to Him.

Now that's a MLM program I want to be a part of.  :)

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--28--Levi-Matthew
Post by: Pastor Sean Brizendine on July 08, 2018, 03:28:02 AM

New impulses--how do we get them? We spend time with Jesus! By beholding Him, we become changed, and the change He works in our hearts is nothing short of a miracle. Are you struggling with sin, or having difficulty learning a new healthy habit? Go to Jesus just as you are, behold His infinite loveliness of character morning by morning, invite Him to live in your heart by faith, and watch how He prompts you with new impulses that will amaze you! Cooperate with Him moment-by-moment, and find how He truly fills your life with love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, meekness and temperance (all the fruits of the Spirit, without one missing). He leads you to gladly obey all the light of His law that you know, because His law is a law of liberty and love! He is the Author and Finisher of faith (the faith of Jesus, given you as a gift) who promises to complete the work He has begun in you!

I was so happy and blessed when Jesus woke me up early to spend a wonderful time with Him, and as I reflected on Jesus' interaction with the despised people of His time at the feast of Levi-Matthew (the fifth disciple He called), I was so blessed by this revelation of His character:

"Jesus sat as an honored guest at the table of the publicans, by His sympathy and social kindliness showing that He recognized the dignity of humanity; and men longed to become worthy of His confidence. Upon their thirsty hearts His words fell with blessed, life-giving power. New impulses were awakened, and the possibility of a new life opened to these outcasts of society." {The Desire of Ages, page 274, paragraph 2}

New impulses that are from the divine nature can be implanted in our souls today as we let Jesus come and walk with us, abide with us, and work in and through us. There is no greater joy than to be in constant union and communion with Him by the Holy Spirit! Instead of seeking the unsatisfying pleasures of sin, the converted heart will find that the presence of Jesus alone can make one happy!

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--28--Levi-Matthew
Post by: Dorine on July 08, 2018, 05:51:30 AM

Amen, Pastor Sean. This is a mystery hard to understand until you have allowed God to work this miracle in your own life by full surrender and then by beholding His character every day. He does not force anything on us. He wants us to give our hearts willingly.

" The Pharisees thought themselves too wise to need instruction, too righteous to need salvation, too highly honored to need the honor that comes from Christ. The Saviour turned away from them to find others who would receive the message of heaven. In the untutored fishermen, in the publican at the market place, in the woman of Samaria, in the common people who heard Him gladly, He found His new bottles for the new wine. The instrumentalities to be used in the gospel work are those souls who gladly receive the light which God sends them. These are His agencies for imparting the knowledge of truth to the world. If through the grace of Christ His people will become new bottles, He will fill them with new wine."

I want to be a new bottle today filled with new wine. Each day is the first day of the rest of my life. I want it filled with the Holy Spirit so that I may be a light in my home, on my street, in my community and where ever my travels take me; to guide souls to Christ. He is the greatest gift sent from heaven.

"When men appreciate the great salvation, the self-sacrifice seen in Christ's life will be seen in theirs. Wherever He leads the way, they will rejoice to follow."

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--28--Levi-Matthew
Post by: Richard Myers on July 08, 2018, 10:32:36 AM

Amen and amen!!  How could we not love Jesus!! And if we know Him, we will love Him, and those He died to save. Grace is more than a word, it is the power that transforms the heart and mind. When we live for Jesus, we will not be moved by the pressure from the world.

     Matthew "left all, rose up, and followed Him." There was no hesitation, no questioning, no thought of the lucrative business to be exchanged for poverty and hardship. It was enough for him that he was to be with Jesus, that he might listen to His words, and unite with Him in His work.
     So it was with the disciples previously called. When Jesus bade Peter and his companions follow Him, immediately they left their boats and nets. Some of these disciples had friends dependent on them for support; but when they received the Saviour's invitation, they did not hesitate, and inquire, How shall I live, and sustain my family? They were obedient to the call; and when afterward Jesus asked them, "When I sent you without purse, and scrip, and shoes, lacked ye anything?" they could answer, "Nothing." Luke 22:35.
     To Matthew in his wealth, and to Andrew and Peter in their poverty, the same test was brought; the same consecration was made by each. At the moment of success, when the nets were filled with fish, and the impulses of the old life were strongest, Jesus asked the disciples at the sea to leave all for the work of the gospel. So every soul is tested as to whether the desire for temporal good or for fellowship with Christ is strongest.

I can testify that God will provide for all who love Him supremely and enter into full time ministry. The world will not understand, nor will it approve. Satan will work through family, friends, and the enemy to stop one from depending upon Christ totally. If Christ be for us, who can be against us!!! Nothing comes to us that Christ does not allow. All things work together for our good as we abide in Christ!

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--28--Levi-Matthew
Post by: Pastor Sean Brizendine on October 03, 2018, 12:23:10 AM

God loves to do a new thing--for each of us are being uniquely rescued from a depth of lostness that we do not even now fully comprehend. But like a person who starts to sense that they have the symptoms of a major disease, we must acknowledge ourselves helpless condemned sinners and be willing to accept the divine remedy found in Jesus. "Are you in Christ? Not if you do not acknowledge yourselves erring, helpless, condemned sinners. Not if you are exalting and glorifying self. If there is any good in you, it is wholly attributable to the mercy of a compassionate Saviour. Your birth, your reputation, your wealth, your talents, your virtues, your piety, your philanthropy, or anything else in you or connected with you, will not form a bond of union between your soul and Christ. Your connection with the church, the manner in which your brethren regard you, will be of no avail unless you believe in Christ. It is not enough to believe about Him; you must believe in Him. You must rely wholly upon His saving grace." {Testimonies for the Church, Volume 5, page 48, paragraph 3}

Grace--saving grace--is much more than a word. It is the power of God to transform a sinner into a saint, to give us a new nature whereby all of the fruits of the Spirit are seen in our lives without one missing, as we by grace through faith receive a new heart and a new mind in which Christ lives out His life within us. True obedience to all the light we know from God's law is the fruit of genuine conversion. "If ye love Me, keep my commandments" (John 14:15). Christ's spotless robe, His perfect character, is imputed and imparted--given as a gift, and then lived out in our actual lives--as we continually surrender to Him moment-by-moment.

Matthew-Levi was willing to see his need; he was teachable, and Christ could impart to him the precious new wine of His gospel truth as the character of this hated publican became transformed by a new nature altogether, as he abandoned his former life and fully united with Jesus. The more I contemplate how miraculous it is to live a consistent life in Christ, the more I am drawn to the life, character, and sacrifice of Jesus. "His whole life was a sacrifice of Himself for the saving of the world." {The Desire of Ages, page 278, paragraph 2} May we, beholding Christ's self-sacrifice, cooperate continually with Him so He can live out His life within us!

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--28--Levi-Matthew
Post by: JimB on October 03, 2018, 05:06:29 AM

Amen pastor Sean! His whole life was and is lived for us erring humans. The more we look to Him the more we will realize this.

The calling of Matthew to be one of Christ's disciples excited great indignation. For a religious teacher to choose a publican as one of his immediate attendants was an offense against the religious, social, and national customs. By appealing to the prejudices of the people the Pharisees hoped to turn the current of popular feeling against Jesus.

This to me is just an example of how God looks on the heart and doesn't judge like we would, this reminded me this morning of this...

1 Samuel 16:7 But the Lord said unto Samuel, Look not on his countenance, or on the height of his stature; because I have refused him: for the Lord seeth not as man seeth; for man looketh on the outward appearance, but the Lord looketh on the heart.

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--28--Levi-Matthew
Post by: Richard Myers on October 03, 2018, 07:27:32 AM

Amen.  It is a simple truth that Jesus wants the heart, the whole heart. Why are we pointing this out? For the same reason we see it throughout the Spirit of Prophecy and Scripture. Man is blind to his need of grace until he understands his present condition. And, sadly, in His church the very same condition exists. Blindness has come upon Israel.

   Principle is always exacting. No man can succeed in the service of God unless his whole heart is in the work and he counts all things but loss for the excellency of the knowledge of Christ. No man who makes any reserve can be the disciple of Christ, much less can he be His colaborer. When men appreciate the great salvation, the self-sacrifice seen in Christ's life will be seen in theirs. Wherever He leads the way, they will rejoice to follow. 

God wants the whole heart, not 99% of it. Until we give to Him all we are and all we have, we remain selfish and in need of conversion.

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--28--Levi-Matthew
Post by: Beacon on December 28, 2018, 04:49:57 PM

  Of the Roman officials in Palestine, none were more hated than the publicans. The fact that the taxes were imposed by a foreign power was a continual irritation to the Jews, being a reminder that their independence had departed. And the taxgatherers were not merely the instruments of Roman oppression; they were extortioners on their own account, enriching themselves at the expense of the people. A Jew who accepted this office at the hands of the Romans was looked upon as betraying the honor of his nation. He was despised as an apostate, and was classed with the vilest of society.

     To this class belonged Levi-Matthew, who, after the four disciples at Gennesaret, was the next to be called to Christ's service. The Pharisees had judged Matthew according to his employment, but Jesus saw in this man a heart open for the reception of truth. Matthew had listened to the Saviour's teaching. As the convicting Spirit of God revealed his sinfulness, he longed to seek help from Christ; but he was accustomed to the exclusiveness of the rabbis, and had no thought that this Great Teacher would notice him.
     Sitting at his toll booth one day, the publican saw Jesus approaching. Great was his astonishment to hear the words addressed to himself, "Follow Me."   Matthew "left all, rose up, and followed Him." There was no hesitation, no questioning, no thought of the lucrative business to be exchanged for poverty and hardship. It was enough for him that he was to be with Jesus, that he might listen to His words, and unite with Him in His work.
     So it was with the disciples previously called. When Jesus bade Peter and his companions follow Him, immediately they left their boats and nets. Some of these disciples had friends dependent on them for support; but when they received the Saviour's invitation, they did not hesitate, and inquire, How shall I live, and sustain my family? They were obedient to the call; and when afterward Jesus asked them, "When I sent you without purse, and scrip, and shoes, lacked ye anything?" they could answer, "Nothing." Luke 22:35.
     To Matthew in his wealth, and to Andrew and Peter in their poverty, the same test was brought; the same consecration was made by each. At the moment of success, when the nets were filled with fish, and the impulses of the old life were strongest, Jesus asked the disciples at the sea to leave all for the work of the gospel. So every soul is tested as to whether the desire for temporal good or for fellowship with Christ is strongest.
     Principle is always exacting.  No man who makes any reserve can be the disciple of Christ, much less can he be His colaborer. When men appreciate the great salvation, the self-sacrifice seen in Christ's life will be seen in theirs. Wherever He leads the way, they will rejoice to follow.

 What a test for the first 4 disciples that had been called by Jesus...to leave all...when their nets were full. Then came another shocking test of faith when Jesus called Levi Matthew...the despised tax collector. They must have wondered about the judgement of Jesus in doing such a thing ( wouldn't we ) But just like the fishermen with their full nets...He left the tax collecting ( with all it's fringe benefits ) and followed Jesus. Like it says in the quote above..." No man can succeed in the service of God unless his whole heart is in the work and he counts all things but loss for the excellency of the knowledge of Christ.

My prayer is....That my heart may be open and willing to that same degree. How about you??......Happy Sabbath

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--28--Levi-Matthew
Post by: Dorine on December 29, 2018, 03:23:00 AM

Amen Beacon. It is a blessing to have you join with us in the reading of these chapters on the beautiful life of Jesus. I've always been deeply impressed with the willingness of Matthew to instantly answer the call of Jesus. Especially where he held such a lucrative position. What would seem to most to be such a foolish sacrifice turned out to be a blessing of a much higher calling.

When we read of the spiritual disease of the Pharisees I was very interested in how the chapter ended.

"As it was in the days of Christ, so it is now; the Pharisees do not know their spiritual destitution. To them comes the message, "Because thou sayest, I am rich, and increased with goods, and have need of nothing; and knowest not that thou art wretched, and miserable, and poor, and blind, and naked: I counsel thee to buy of Me gold tried in the fire, that thou mayest be rich; and white raiment, that thou mayest be clothed, and that the shame of thy nakedness do not appear." Revelation 3:17, 18. Faith and love are the gold tried in the fire. But with many the gold has become dim, and the rich treasure has been lost. The righteousness of Christ is to them as a robe unworn, a fountain untouched. To them it is said, "I have somewhat against thee, because thou hast left thy first love. Remember therefore from whence thou art fallen, and repent, and do the first works; or else I will come unto thee quickly, and will remove thy candlestick out of his place, except thou repent."

It is clear from this quote that Pharisees are still in our midst. Issues might be different but the heart is the same.  Unless God has 100% of my heart I am outside of God's will. If we find ourselves in this condition it is not hopeless. Christ say's "Remember therefore from whence thou are fallen, and repent and do the first works." Today is another day granted to us to surrender self and give all to Jesus.

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--28--Levi-Matthew
Post by: Pastor Sean Brizendine on December 29, 2018, 03:50:16 AM

Amen, Beacon and Dorine! It is so wonderful that you have joined us in our sharing on the life of Jesus! This is how Jesus is preparing us for heaven!! I pray that more will read and share what the Holy Spirit is teaching them, so we may all be encouraged and edified!!

As we contemplate the way Jesus saves us (to the uttermost), He always calls for the WHOLE heart in order for us to be converted. The first five disciples were willing to make that full surrender, and at each step of walking with Jesus, we are to realize our continual need of His presence for the surrender to be maintained, for we cannot of ourselves empty ourselves of self, but by beholding the loveliness of Jesus, we see self for what it is and renounce it, choosing to be filled with the Holy Spirit who alone can give us renewed hearts and minds. I love how Matthew responded to the gospel call, and I especially treasure the gospel of Matthew that has come to us through what the Holy Spirit impressed him to write for our learning and instruction!

May we become the instrumentalities God can use to spread the gospel of His grace, for His grace has power to change sinners into saints who reveal all of the fruits of the Spirit without one missing, as long as Christ has the whole heart!!

"The Pharisees thought themselves too wise to need instruction, too righteous to need salvation, too highly honored to need the honor that comes from Christ. The Saviour turned away from them to find others who would receive the message of heaven. In the untutored fishermen, in the publican at the market place, in the woman of Samaria, in the common people who heard Him gladly, He found His new bottles for the new wine. The instrumentalities to be used in the gospel work are those souls who gladly receive the light which God sends them. These are His agencies for imparting the knowledge of truth to the world. If through the grace of Christ His people will become new bottles, He will fill them with new wine." {The Desire of Ages, page 279, paragraph 1} 

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--28--Levi-Matthew
Post by: Richard Myers on December 29, 2018, 12:14:51 PM

Beacon, what a joy to have you sharing with us!!  I have been a little under the weather here lately, but have been reading your posts. What a blessing! I was impressed as were you, that God wants the whole heart. He tests us that we might see our continual need of His grace in order to be saved. Sadly, as our reading pointed out, false teaching often stands in the way of the truth. May we ever be open to the truth as it is in Jesus.

Jesus pointed out the power of false teaching to destroy the appreciation and desire for truth. "No man," He said, "having drunk old wine straightway desireth new: for he saith, The old is better." All the truth that has been given to the world through patriarchs and prophets shone out in new beauty in the words of Christ. But the scribes and Pharisees had no desire for the precious new wine. Until emptied of the old traditions, customs, and practices, they had no place in mind or heart for the teachings of Christ. They clung to the dead forms, and turned away from the living truth and the power of God.
     It was this that proved the ruin of the Jews, and it will prove the ruin of many souls in our own day. Thousands are making the same mistake as did the Pharisees whom Christ reproved at Matthew's feast. Rather than give up some cherished idea, or discard some idol of opinion, many refuse the truth which comes down from the Father of light. They trust in self, and depend upon their own wisdom, and do not realize their spiritual poverty.

It is so very good to be back with my friends sharing the blessings God gives as we read of His love for us. There are many who long to have the peace that comes from knowing God. May our little group continue to increase. May this new year about to begin bring many souls into the kingdom.

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--28--Levi-Matthew
Post by: Beacon on March 25, 2019, 08:01:11 PM

"It was this that proved the ruin of the Jews, and it will prove the ruin of many souls in our own day. Thousands are making the same mistake as did the Pharisees whom Christ reproved at Matthew's feast. Rather than give up some cherished idea, or discard some idol of opinion, many refuse the truth which comes down from the Father of light. They trust in self, and depend upon their own wisdom, and do not realize their spiritual poverty. They insist on being saved in some way by which they may perform some important work. When they see that there is no way of weaving self into the work, they reject the salvation provided."

Ps. 139: 23, 24 says: "Search me, O God, and know my heart: try me, and know my thoughts: and see if there be any wicked way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting". We need to be willing to examine ourselves and make sure we are willing to be emptied of self and filled with the Holy Spirit so that self will not determine our thoughts and actions.
 
"A legal religion can never lead souls to Christ; for it is a loveless, Christless religion. Fasting or prayer that is actuated by a self-justifying spirit is an abomination in the sight of God. The solemn assembly for worship, the round of religious ceremonies, the external humiliation, the imposing sacrifice, proclaim that the doer of these things regards himself as righteous, and as entitled to heaven; but it is all a deception. Our own works can never purchase salvation"

Nothing in my hand a bring -- Simply to the Cross I Cling. May it always be your goal/my goal to magnify Jesus and bury self.

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--28--Levi-Matthew
Post by: Pastor Sean Brizendine on March 26, 2019, 06:07:40 AM

Amen, Brother Beacon!

Christ's righteousness alone can save us--His perfect life, His sacrificial death, and His resurrection life are what we must depend upon--not as a theory, but in its deepest reality--as a living faith experience to be brought into our thoughts, feelings, and actions whereby Christ is all in all, and self is truly crucified with Him, buried, and we are raised to walk in His life of self-sacrificing love to bless others!

"The true fast is no mere formal service. The Scripture describes the fast that God has chosen,--'to loose the bands of wickedness, to undo the heavy burdens, and to let the oppressed go free, and that ye break every yoke;' to 'draw out thy soul to the hungry, and satisfy the afflicted soul.' Isaiah 58:6, 10. Here is set forth the very spirit and character of the work of Christ. His whole life was a sacrifice of Himself for the saving of the world. Whether fasting in the wilderness of temptation or eating with the publicans at Matthew's feast, He was giving His life for the redemption of the lost. Not in idle mourning, in mere bodily humiliation and multitudinous sacrifices, is the true spirit of devotion manifested, but it is shown in the surrender of self in willing service to God and man." {The Desire of Ages, page 278, paragraph 2}

Christ was, in the truest spiritual sense, "fasting" even when at the feasting table--because He was there not to pamper self, but to save souls. Self and self-interest had no part in Jesus' labors. So it will be with us when we surrender the whole heart and the whole mind to Christ to cleanse and purify, so He can manifest forth His divine-nature-fruit attributes without one missing: love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, meekness, goodness, faith and temperance! With such a Savior on the throne of our hearts, we can have a victorious walk with Jesus no matter how trying the path may be, for He has walked the path of this earthly life in a heavenly way before!   

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--28--Levi-Matthew
Post by: Richard Myers on March 26, 2019, 06:55:47 AM

Amen Pastor Sean. And it is by beholding this love that we are transformed from sinner to saint. A pure and holy heart we may have today if we will learn of Christ that we might trust Him with the whole heart. A legal religion reveals a dried up hard heart. Jesus promises us new hearts wherein the soul has been purified. Levi Matthew and poor fishermen gladly received the light God sent them and received these "new bottles" (hearts) that they could receive the new wine (truth). False teaching destroys the desire for truth. We must die to self if we want to be a follower of Christ.

Man must be emptied of self before he can be, in the fullest sense, a believer in Jesus. When self is renounced, then the Lord can make man a new creature. New bottles can contain the new wine. The love of Christ will animate the believer with new life. In him who looks unto the Author and Finisher of our faith the character of Christ will be manifest.

Love, joy, and peace are ours when we give Jesus the whole heart, keeping nothing back.

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--28--Levi-Matthew
Post by: Dorine on March 26, 2019, 12:32:11 PM

"The Prince of heaven was among His people. The greatest gift of God had been given to the world. Joy to the poor; for Christ had come to make them heirs of His kingdom. Joy to the rich; for He would teach them how to secure eternal riches. Joy to the ignorant; He would make them wise unto salvation. Joy to the learned; He would open to them deeper mysteries than they had ever fathomed; truths that had been hidden from the foundation of the world would be opened to men by the Saviour's mission."

Jesus is all things to all people if we are open to His leading. What joy we experience when we sit at His feet and learn of Him and then claim these promises for ourselves.

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--28--Levi-Matthew
Post by: Beacon on June 20, 2019, 07:59:51 PM

"As it was in the days of Christ, so it is now; the Pharisees do not know their spiritual destitution. To them comes the message, "Because thou sayest, I am rich, and increased with goods, and have need of nothing; and knowest not that thou art wretched, and miserable, and poor, and blind, and naked: I counsel thee to buy of Me gold tried in the fire, that thou mayest be rich; and white raiment, that thou mayest be clothed, and that the shame of thy nakedness do not appear." Revelation 3:17, 18. Faith and love are the gold tried in the fire. But with many the gold has become dim, and the rich treasure has been lost. The righteousness of Christ is to them as a robe unworn, a fountain untouched. To them it is said, "I have somewhat against thee, because thou hast left thy first love. Remember therefore from whence thou art fallen, and repent, and do the first works; or else I will come unto thee quickly, and will remove thy candlestick out of his place, except thou repent." Revelation 2:4, 5."

"Jesus is coming soon, there is no time to delay in making matters right. The Laodicean message is one of great promise, for it reveals what we need to do in order to be saved. We must repent. Jesus offers the three things we must buy of Him. What is the cost to purchase faith that works by love, the character of Christ, and the Holy Spirit? Is it too much to pay? No! They are offered free of charge, but we must give up our sin polluted hearts. By beholding Him we shall be changed daily by His Spirit (2 Cor. 3:18)."

Are we to busy and preoccupied with the things of this world to hear the pleading voice of Jesus as He says " Today if ye hear my voice harden not your hearts...??? Some one said that being "BUSY" means " Being Under Satan's Yoke" which banner will you, will I chose to stand under?

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--28--Levi-Matthew
Post by: Pastor Sean Brizendine on June 21, 2019, 03:46:25 AM

Only Jesus can give us the true experience of conversion and repentance. As we surrender to His grace, we are transformed!!

"'The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit: a broken and a contrite heart, O God, Thou wilt not despise.' Psalm 51:17. Man must be emptied of self before he can be, in the fullest sense, a believer in Jesus. When self is renounced, then the Lord can make man a new creature. New bottles can contain the new wine. The love of Christ will animate the believer with new life. In him who looks unto the Author and Finisher of our faith the character of Christ will be manifest." {The Desire of Ages, page 280, paragraph 4}

Let us fix our eyes always on Jesus!!

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--28--Levi-Matthew
Post by: Beacon on September 13, 2019, 04:52:00 PM

"Jesus pointed out the power of false teaching to destroy the appreciation and desire for truth. "No man," He said, "having drunk old wine straightway desireth new: for he saith, The old is better." All the truth that has been given to the world through patriarchs and prophets shone out in new beauty in the words of Christ. But the scribes and Pharisees had no desire for the precious new wine. Until emptied of the old traditions, customs, and practices, they had no place in mind or heart for the teachings of Christ. They clung to the dead forms, and turned away from the living truth and the power of God."

The Bible say in John 8:32
"And ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free."

Perhaps it's time for more personal introspection....Are we individually and corporately with open heart and mind searching and desiring to know and put into practice "all that the Word of God reveals to us" ? or are we holding on to some to some sinful practices like the people and church leaders of Christ's time. Again Jesus said in....

John 14:6 "Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me. "

As we spend another wonderful Sabbath with Jesus it is my prayer that I along with each of you will be willing to ask our Jesus to " lead us into all truth and with a willing heart to say " Here I am Lord - Take me and fill me with the Holy Spirit " so that my life may genuinely light up a path for those who are seeking the truth of your word which leads to eternal life. HAPPY SABBATH

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--28--Levi-Matthew
Post by: Pastor Sean Brizendine on September 14, 2019, 04:08:30 AM

Amen, Brother Beacon!!

Happy Sabbath to all!

What a joy it is to be able to surrender all to Christ as He draws us by His love--for His love is better than life!

"To Matthew in his wealth, and to Andrew and Peter in their poverty, the same test was brought; the same consecration was made by each. At the moment of success, when the nets were filled with fish, and the impulses of the old life were strongest, Jesus asked the disciples at the sea to leave all for the work of the gospel. So every soul is tested as to whether the desire for temporal good or for fellowship with Christ is strongest." {The Desire of Ages, page 273, paragraph 4}

The desire for Jesus will be strongest as we behold Him and learn of Him, renouncing our own will and ways to receive His--a new life altogether!

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--28--Levi-Matthew
Post by: Richard Myers on September 14, 2019, 06:21:06 AM

Amen!  Who shall we follow? The World or Christ? As Brother Beacon pointed out, the priests "turned away from the living truth and the power of God."  Such foolishness! Shall we do the same? Not if we will spend time with Jesus. By beholding we become changed and will not follow those who do not love God.

So it was with Levi-Mathew.

To this class belonged Levi-Matthew, who, after the four disciples at Gennesaret, was the next to be called to Christ's service. The Pharisees had judged Matthew according to his employment, but Jesus saw in this man a heart open for the reception of truth. Matthew had listened to the Saviour's teaching. As the convicting Spirit of God revealed his sinfulness, he longed to seek help from Christ;

We cannot succeed in the work of evangelism unless we make a whole heart sacrifice. God wants the whole heart, not part of it. Self must die in order that a new life reflecting Christ can  be seen by the world. Why would we  not want this power in our life?

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--28--Levi-Matthew
Post by: Dorine on September 14, 2019, 01:47:41 PM

The Pharisees thought themselves too wise to need instruction, too righteous to need salvation, too highly honored to need the honor that comes from Christ. The Saviour turned away from them to find others who would receive the message of heaven. In the untutored fishermen, in the publican at the market place, in the woman of Samaria, in the common people who heard Him gladly, He found His new bottles for the new wine. The instrumentalities to be used in the gospel work are those souls who gladly receive the light which God sends them. These are His agencies for imparting the knowledge of truth to the world. If through the grace of Christ His people will become new bottles, He will fill them with new wine.

It melts my heart to see how patient, merciful and long suffering Jesus is toward the lost. Where would any of us be without it? We don't deserve it but He knows that and took our sins upon Himself so that we may live. All He asks for is our hearts so He may transform them into His character. When that happens others will see the difference and will be drawn to know Him too. Let's open God's word and not just read it but with the aid of the Holy Spirit examine every thought. We don't want just a form of Godliness do we? We want to serve Christ from a completely submitted heart and transformed life.

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--28--Levi-Matthew
Post by: Beacon on December 08, 2019, 03:11:16 PM

"When Jesus bade Peter and his companions follow Him, immediately they left their boats and nets. Some of these disciples had friends dependent on them for support; but when they received the Saviour's invitation, they did not hesitate, and inquire, How shall I live, and sustain my family? They were obedient to the call; and when afterward Jesus asked them, "When I sent you without purse, and scrip, and shoes, lacked ye anything?" they could answer, "Nothing." Luke 22:35."

"To Matthew in his wealth, and to Andrew and Peter in their poverty, the same test was brought; the same consecration was made by each at the moment of success, when the nets were filled with fish, and the impulses of the old life were strongest, Jesus asked the disciples at the sea to leave all for the work of the gospel. So every soul is tested as to whether the desire for temporal good or for fellowship with Christ is strongest. Principle is always exacting. No man who makes any reserve can be the disciple of Christ, much less can he be His colaborer. When men appreciate the great salvation, the self-sacrifice seen in Christ's life will be seen in theirs. Wherever He leads the way, they will rejoice to follow."

I invite you to join with me today. My prayer is...."Take my life and let it be consecrated Lord to Thee." " Nothing in my hand I bring, simply to the cross I cling. Fill my cup Lord and let it be consecrated, only to Thee. 

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--28--Levi-Matthew
Post by: Dorine on December 09, 2019, 05:58:44 AM

The Prince of heaven was among His people. The greatest gift of God had been given to the world. Joy to the poor; for Christ had come to make them heirs of His kingdom. Joy to the rich; for He would teach them how to secure eternal riches. Joy to the ignorant; He would make them wise unto salvation. Joy to the learned; He would open to them deeper mysteries than they had ever fathomed; truths that had been hidden from the foundation of the world would be opened to men by the Saviour's mission.

God's promises never fail but they do come with conditions. To experience this joy we must accept this precious gift of God and give Him our whole hearts. As I read these accounts on the life of Christ my heart sinks to think of Who they had walking in their midst day after day yet knew it not because of their unbelief. Then I pray, Lord, please help me with the unbelief in my own heart and give me the trust of an innocent little child.

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--28--Levi-Matthew
Post by: Pastor Sean Brizendine on December 09, 2019, 08:16:04 AM

Amen, Brother Beacon and Sister Dorine!!

Jesus will do a new thing! He invites us to become renewed by His grace and have a transformed experience! As surely as the old ways of tradition and man-made wisdom cannot bear the wisdom and vital truth of God, we need a daily baptism of the Holy Sprit that we may serve Christ aright!

     "Continuing His answer to the disciples of John, Jesus spoke a parable, saying, 'No man putteth a piece of a new garment upon an old; if otherwise, then both the new maketh a rent, and the piece that was taken out of the new agreeth not with the old.' The message of John the Baptist was not to be interwoven with tradition and superstition. An attempt to blend the pretense of the Pharisees with the devotion of John would only make more evident the breach between them." {The Desire of Ages, page 278, paragraph 3}

We must base our faith and experience upon the word of God which reveals the loveliness of Jesus. By beholding His loveliness and grace, we become transformed that we may have revealed in and through us all of the fruits of the Spirit without one missing! May the true devotion of John which revealed sincerity and earnest purpose be how we serve God before Jesus returns in power and great glory with as much greater earnestness as our mission is global to help the whole world know that JESUS IS COMING AGAIN to make ALL THINGS NEW! The only ones who will be ready to meet Him in peace are those who have daily allowed Christ to renew them to receive a new heart and mind, thus serving God by the divine nature imparted by God!

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--28--Levi-Matthew
Post by: Richard Myers on December 09, 2019, 08:57:48 AM

Amen Pastor Sean. I like the object lesson Jesus gives us. What does placing a new garment on an old mean to us? How can the gospel of grace be blended with the teaching that one is saved in his sin? It cannot. Grace transforms the life. John was baptizing those who repented of sin and wanted to quit hurting God and others. To teach or believe one is saved in sin is at great odds with Jesus suffering and dying that we might be saved from sin not in sin.

Our lesson today began with a very pointed truth:

    Principle is always exacting. No man can succeed in the service of God unless his whole heart is in the work and he counts all things but loss for the excellency of the knowledge of Christ. No man who makes any reserve can be the disciple of Christ, much less can he be His colaborer. When men appreciate the great salvation, the self-sacrifice seen in Christ's life will be seen in theirs. Wherever He leads the way, they will rejoice to follow.

With God it is all or nothing. There is no in between. It is true that if we sin, we have a Mediator who will continue to give us time to repent if the heart is not hardened beyond being changed. "I say these things that you sin not, but if we sin, we have a Mediator, Christ Jesus." Moses did indeed sin at the end of his life, but he was not cast aside. No, Christ brought him back to repentance and because he had reached the point of ceasing from sin, he was raised from the grave within three days.

And our lesson closes by making that which has been perverted today by church leaders like Saul and Nicodemus very clear. The blind know not their true condition:

     As it was in the days of Christ, so it is now; the Pharisees do not know their spiritual destitution. To them comes the message, "Because thou sayest, I am rich, and increased with goods, and have need of nothing; and knowest not that thou art wretched, and miserable, and poor, and blind, and naked: I counsel thee to buy of Me gold tried in the fire, that thou mayest be rich; and white raiment, that thou mayest be clothed, and that the shame of thy nakedness do not appear." Revelation 3:17, 18. Faith and love are the gold tried in the fire. But with many the gold has become dim, and the rich treasure has been lost. The righteousness of Christ is to them as a robe unworn, a fountain untouched. To them it is said, "I have somewhat against thee, because thou hast left thy first love. Remember therefore from whence thou art fallen, and repent, and do the first works; or else I will come unto thee quickly, and will remove thy candlestick out of his place, except thou repent." Revelation 2:4, 5.
     "The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit: a broken and a contrite heart, O God, Thou wilt not despise." Psalm 51:17. Man must be emptied of self before he can be, in the fullest sense, a believer in Jesus. When self is renounced, then the Lord can make man a new creature. New bottles can contain the new wine. The love of Christ will animate the believer with new life. In him who looks unto the Author and Finisher of our faith the character of Christ will be manifest.

Amen! God loves us and sacrificed His Son that we might know it, and turn from our sin to our Lord and savior. Then He will transform the life. We will be "new creatures" because we are filled with the Holy Spirit and yes, all of the fruits of the Spirit will be seen in our lives! Miracles of all miracles!!

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--28--Levi-Matthew
Post by: Beacon on March 04, 2020, 04:46:28 PM

"Of the Roman officials in Palestine, none were more hated than the publicans. The fact that the taxes were imposed by a foreign power was a continual irritation to the Jews, being a reminder that their independence had departed. And the taxgatherers were not merely the instruments of Roman oppression; they were extortioners on their own account, enriching themselves at the expense of the people. A Jew who accepted this office at the hands of the Romans was looked upon as betraying the honor of his nation. He was despised as an apostate, and was classed with the vilest of society."

"But"... Jesus saw in this man a heart open for the reception of truth. Matthew had listened to the Saviour's teaching. As the convicting Spirit of God revealed his sinfulness, he longed to seek help from Christ; but he was accustomed to the exclusiveness of the rabbis, and had no thought that this Great Teacher would notice him.

"Sitting at his toll booth one day, the publican saw Jesus approaching. Great was his astonishment to hear the words addressed to himself, "Follow Me." Matthew "left all, rose up, and followed Him." There was no hesitation, no questioning, no thought of the lucrative business to be exchanged for poverty and hardship. It was enough for him that he was to be with Jesus, that he might listen to His words, and unite with Him in His work."

WHAT A TREMENDOUS LESSON ON PRE-JUDGING OTHERS....NO WONDER JESUS SAID....
in Matthew 7 
"Judge not, that ye be not judged. For with what judgment ye judge, ye shall be judged: and with what measure ye mete, it shall be measured to you again. And why beholdest thou the mote that is in thy brother's eye, but considerest not the beam that is in thine own eye?"

 

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--28--Levi-Matthew
Post by: Pastor Sean Brizendine on March 05, 2020, 04:20:58 AM

Naturally in our fallen condition there are things that tend to draw us away from Christ. But if we will look into the face of Jesus and hear His words by faith calling us to something better than we can ask or think--even though it means a life of self-sacrifice--if we truly realize what God is offering us, we will gladly rise up, leave our fallen ways, and take hold of Jesus who can work out a miracle in our lives by converting us and filling us with all of the fruits of His Spirit without one missing! What a blessing that this was what Levi-Matthew and the disciples chose to do! I choose to follow Christ today by surrendering all I have and am to Him. I pray you will, too!

"To Matthew in his wealth, and to Andrew and Peter in their poverty, the same test was brought; the same consecration was made by each. At the moment of success, when the nets were filled with fish, and the impulses of the old life were strongest, Jesus asked the disciples at the sea to leave all for the work of the gospel. So every soul is tested as to whether the desire for temporal good or for fellowship with Christ is strongest." {The Desire of Ages, page 273, paragraph 4}

Let us experience the strongest purpose of our existence: fellowship with Christ!!

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--28--Levi-Matthew
Post by: Dorine on March 05, 2020, 09:08:40 AM

"The instrumentalities to be used in the gospel work are those souls who gladly receive the light which God sends them. These are His agencies for imparting the knowledge of truth to the world. If through the grace of Christ His people will become new bottles, He will  fill them with new wine. The teaching of Christ, though it was represented by the new wine, was not a new doctrine, but the revelation of that which had been taught from the beginning."
This is such an important truth to understand. So much 'new' light is being taught these days by zealous individuals who have made it their mission to set our people straight. Sad to say it is not in harmony with what the bible says or what we believe. Jesus came to reveal truth by His life and through scripture in contrast to what the Pharisees were teaching. How will we know the difference unless we are grounded in what Jesus taught in His word? If we do know the difference can we give a reason for what we believe?

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--28--Levi-Matthew
Post by: Richard Myers on March 05, 2020, 12:25:18 PM

What a blessing to read what has been seen in today's chapter! There are those who cherish the truth no matter where it leads! I was impressed with the same truth Sister Dorine has shared. "The instrumentalities to be used in the gospel work are those souls who gladly receive the light which God sends them. Do you want truth? Do you receive it with great joy even if it cuts across your habits? One does not have to be converted to want to know truth. Those who are searching for truth is the group we are searching for. Many will reject the truth, but there are also many who are wanting it, even though they are a comparatively small group. Many are called, but few choose to follow Christ and His truth.

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--28--Levi-Matthew
Post by: Pastor Sean Brizendine on May 31, 2020, 05:31:15 AM

God can do so much with broken vessels that are yielded fully into His hands. "But we have this treasure in earthen vessels, that the excellency of the power may be of God, and not of us" (2 Corinthians 4:7). It is God's power, by the Holy Spirit, that brings transformation of character. Every life yielded fully to Him will, until Jesus comes and gives us glorified bodies, be encompassed with weakness and infirmity. But in our human weakness we have the privilege of being enabled to do the deeds of omnipotence when we are fully surrendered to Christ and invite the Holy Spirit to manifest through us all the attributes of the divine nature: love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, meekness, and temperance (see Galatians 5:22-23). By beholding Christ we become changed to reflect His likeness more and more fully each day!

 "'The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit: a broken and a contrite heart, O God, Thou wilt not despise.' Psalm 51:17. Man must be emptied of self before he can be, in the fullest sense, a believer in Jesus. When self is renounced, then the Lord can make man a new creature. New bottles can contain the new wine. The love of Christ will animate the believer with new life. In him who looks unto the Author and Finisher of our faith the character of Christ will be manifest." {The Desire of Ages, page 280, paragraph 4}

It is as we allow Christ to write His story for His glory in our lives that we have the greatest joy and peace in doing His service. His love flows through a renewed heart because He has made us partakers of the divine nature (2 Peter 1:4). No good thing will He withhold from those who walk uprightly (Psalm 84:11), and since He is too wise to err we should not fear to trust Him implicitly in everything. We may learn to no rely solely on God's word for assurance of His will and love, and not depend on transient feelings or circumstances for happiness. Cleaving to Jesus who left heaven because He wanted to marry us (see Jeremiah 3:14), we can more fully appreciate the gift of eternal salvation when we contemplate His infinite sacrifice at Calvary!

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--28--Levi-Matthew
Post by: Dorine on May 31, 2020, 05:32:04 AM

"Matthew "left all, rose up, and followed Him." There was no hesitation, no questioning, no thought of the lucrative business to be exchanged for poverty and hardship. It was enough for him that he was to be with Jesus, that he might listen to His words, and unite with Him in His work."

Are we willing to leave all for Jesus? During this confusing time we find ourselves in I am re-evaluating my life and the things that seem to be so important. If it wasn't for my faith in God it would be a terrifying exercise.  The story of Peter illustrates the faith we must have to follow Jesus.

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--28--Levi-Matthew
Post by: Beacon on May 31, 2020, 09:04:37 AM

"To Matthew in his wealth, and to Andrew and Peter in their poverty, the same test was brought; the same consecration was made by each. At the moment of success, when the nets were filled with fish, and the impulses of the old life were strongest, Jesus asked the disciples at the sea to leave all for the work of the gospel. So every soul is tested as to whether the desire for temporal good or for fellowship with Christ is strongest."

"Thousands are making the same mistake as did the Pharisees whom Christ reproved at Matthew's feast. Rather than give up some cherished idea, or discard some idol of opinion, many refuse the truth which comes down from the Father of light. They trust in self, and depend upon their own wisdom, and do not realize their spiritual poverty. They insist on being saved in some way by which they may perform some important work. When they see that there is no way of weaving self into the work, they reject the salvation provided."

Today Jesus is calling us to come in full surrender and be filled with New Wine. This is His invitation...Luke 9:23 "And he said to them all, If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow me. Are We Willing?

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--28--Levi-Matthew
Post by: Dorine on August 26, 2020, 05:25:43 AM

The teaching of Christ, though it was represented by the new wine, was not a new doctrine, but the revelation of that which had been taught from the beginning. But to the Pharisees the truth of God had lost its original significance and beauty. To them Christ's teaching was new in almost every respect, and it was unrecognized and unacknowledged.

If Jesus Himself was here today His teachings would not be any more welcome than when He was here on earth. My daughter and I are reviewing our fundamental beliefs in our weekly study. It's a sad fact that many do not accept much of what we believe. One member says that they all need to be rewritten to reveal 'new' light. That's where studying the life of Christ brings peace to my heart because He did not let anything ruffle or disturb Him. He went about doing good and sharing the truth in spite of those who tried to trip Him up. We are to follow His example in our witness inside and outside the church. Those that are open and searching for truth will hear and believe and follow the teachings of Jesus in His word.

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--28--Levi-Matthew
Post by: Beacon on August 26, 2020, 07:26:40 AM

"Faith and love are the gold tried in the fire. But with many the gold has become dim, and the rich treasure has been lost. The righteousness of Christ is to them as a robe unworn, a fountain untouched. To them it is said...

"I have somewhat against thee, because thou hast left thy first love. Remember therefore from whence thou art fallen, and repent, and do the first works; or else I will come unto thee quickly, and will remove thy candlestick out of his place, except thou repent." Revelation 2:4, 5.

"The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit: a broken and a contrite heart, O God, Thou wilt not despise." Psalm 51:17.

Man must be emptied of self before he can be, in the fullest sense, a believer in Jesus. When self is renounced, then the Lord can make man a new creature. New bottles can contain the new wine. The love of Christ will animate the believer with new life. In him who looks unto the Author and Finisher of our faith the character of Christ will be manifest.

The question that Joshua posed many centuries ago --- is still just as valid today....

Joshua 24:15
And if it seem evil unto you to serve the Lord, choose you this day whom ye will serve; whether the gods which your fathers served that were on the other side of the flood, or the gods of the Amorites, in whose land ye dwell: but as for me and my house, we will serve the Lord.

What Will Our Response Be?

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--28--Levi-Matthew
Post by: Pastor Sean Brizendine on August 26, 2020, 08:00:18 AM

Amen Sister Dorine! And in response to what you shared, Brother Beacon, I choose Jesus!! I choose to let Him have my entire heart and my entire mind so my will may be swallowed up in His will!!

What does God desire?

“'The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit: a broken and a contrite heart, O God, Thou wilt not despise.' Psalm 51:17. Man must be emptied of self before he can be, in the fullest sense, a believer in Jesus. When self is renounced, then the Lord can make man a new creature. New bottles can contain the new wine. The love of Christ will animate the believer with new life. In him who looks unto the Author and Finisher of our faith the character of Christ will be manifest." {The Desire of Ages, page 280, paragraph 4}

Then all of the fruits of the Spirit without one missing will be seen in the life of every soul fully surrendered to Jesus! His love will lead to happy obedience to His law of freedom!

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--28--Levi-Matthew
Post by: Richard Myers on August 26, 2020, 09:36:36 AM

Amen Pastor Sean, by  beholding Christ we are transformed into His image from glory to glory by the Holy Spirit (2 Cor. 3:18).

Quote from: Beacon on August 26, 2020, 07:26:40 AM

"Faith and love are the gold tried in the fire. But with many the gold has become dim, and the rich treasure has been lost. The righteousness of Christ is to them as a robe unworn, a fountain untouched. To them it is said...

Amen Brother Beacon!  This pertains to the Laodicean message that all ought to clearly understand applies to the church today. As a people we are not converted, but think we are. So it was with the Pharisees and most of Israel. Jesus rebukes us in the third chapter of Revelation, but He also tells us what we must do to be converted. It is grace that saves us, transforms us. Faith that works by beholding His love is what changes the heart, purifies it and brings about a new creature that is aligned with God.

    But although the Pharisees thought so highly of themselves, they were really in a worse condition than the ones they despised. The publicans were less bigoted and self-sufficient, and thus were more open to the influence of truth. Jesus said to the rabbis, "Go ye and learn what that meaneth, I will have mercy, and not sacrifice." Thus He showed that while they claimed to expound the word of God, they were wholly ignorant of its spirit. 

Laodiceans are ignorant that the law kills, but the Spirit giveth life. There is no power in the law to transform the life, it reveals sin in the live.

Amen Sister Dorine!  The gospel message is not new, and it is the very first thing in the three angels message that we are to take to the world. Yet, we seldom hear it being preached. Where is the great deception? It is just as Jesus says to us in Rev 3. We believe we are rich and increased with goods, but know not that we are miserable, wretched, poor, blind, and naked. As a people we have been taught and believe a false gospel. Why do so many not want to hear this truth? Have we ever objected to someone who speaks the straight testimony of the True Witness and attempts to do what Jesus did in His sermon on the  mount? "Ye have heard that it was said by them of old time, Thou shalt not commit adultery: But I say unto you, That whosoever looketh on a woman to lust after her hath committed adultery with her already in his heart." Matt. 5:27,28

None are converted whose hearts are not purified and filled with the Holy Spirit. Love, joy, and peace are the fruits revealed in the life of all who love Jesus with the WHOLE heart. Yes, many are converted around the world, but do not understand the gospel any more than did the disciples when they walked out of the upper room the night of Christ's suffering in Gethsemane. Few understand what is being shared in this forum. But, this is changing. Those who look unto Jesus and spend a thoughtful hour a day contemplating the life of Christ are awaking to the power of grace to transform the life. Praise God!!

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--28--Levi-Matthew
Post by: Pastor Sean Brizendine on November 21, 2020, 04:04:32 AM

Happy Sabbath!! When we experience the power of the gospel, we will value fellowship with Christ over anything offered in this whole world! When Jesus has the whole heart, all of the fruits of the Spirit will be manifest in the life and we will gladly obey Him out of an intelligent appreciation of all He is to us and is offering us in union and communion with Him!

"To Matthew in his wealth, and to Andrew and Peter in their poverty, the same test was brought; the same consecration was made by each. At the moment of success, when the nets were filled with fish, and the impulses of the old life were strongest, Jesus asked the disciples at the sea to leave all for the work of the gospel. So every soul is tested as to whether the desire for temporal good or for fellowship with Christ is strongest." {The Desire of Ages, page 273, paragraph 4}

Let us keep looking unto Jesus!! He will finish what He starts in our lives!!

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--28--Levi-Matthew
Post by: Dorine on November 21, 2020, 05:22:35 AM

Let us keep looking unto Jesus!! He will finish what He starts in our lives!! Amen Pastor Sean. A comforting promise. Thank you.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
There is much to chew on and digest in our chapter today.  The concluding paragraph spoke strongly to me. If we just surface read then the depths of truth will not be revealed. We will continue on as we always have.

"The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit: a broken and a contrite heart, O God, Thou wilt not despise." Psalm 51:17. Man must be emptied of self before he can be, in the fullest sense, a believer in Jesus. When self is renounced, then the Lord can make man a new creature. New bottles can contain the new wine. The love of Christ will animate the believer with new life. In him who looks unto the Author and Finisher of our faith the character of Christ will be manifest."

We must spiritually stop, chew on and digest God's word with an open heart. When we do this our hearts will no longer nurse self but fully embrace the life changing work Christ wants to do in us and for us. Our hearts will not just melt but break when we realize how we wound our loving Saviour each time we forget Him.

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--28--Levi-Matthew
Post by: Beacon on November 21, 2020, 07:01:28 AM

"But although the Pharisees thought so highly of themselves, they were really in a worse condition than the ones they despised. The publicans were less bigoted and self-sufficient, and thus were more open to the influence of truth. Jesus said to the rabbis, "Go ye and learn what that meaneth, I will have mercy, and not sacrifice." Thus He showed that while they claimed to expound the word of God, they were wholly ignorant of its spirit."

"Man must be emptied of self before he can be, in the fullest sense, a believer in Jesus.

When self is renounced, then the Lord can make man a new creature.

New bottles can contain the new wine. The love of Christ will animate the believer with new life. In him who looks unto the Author and Finisher of our faith the character of Christ will be manifest."

The question that Joshua posed many centuries ago --- is still just as valid today....

Joshua 24:15
And if it seem evil unto you to serve the Lord, choose you this day whom ye will serve; whether the gods which your fathers served that were on the other side of the flood, or the gods of the Amorites, in whose land ye dwell: but as for me and my house, we will serve the Lord.

As we celebrate this Sabbath day I can't help but wonder -- What Will Our Response Be?

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--28--Levi-Matthew
Post by: Dorine on February 16, 2021, 05:41:09 AM

"As it was in the days of Christ, so it is now; the Pharisees do not know their spiritual destitution. To them comes the message, "Because thou sayest, I am rich, and increased with goods, and have need of nothing; and knowest not that thou art wretched, and miserable, and poor, and blind, and naked: I counsel thee to buy of Me gold tried in the fire, that thou mayest be rich; and white raiment, that thou mayest be clothed, and that the shame of thy nakedness do not appear." Revelation 3:17, 18. Faith and love are the gold tried in the fire. But with many the gold has become dim, and the rich treasure has been lost. The righteousness of Christ is to them as a robe unworn, a fountain untouched. To them it is said, "I have somewhat against thee, because thou hast left thy first love. Remember therefore from whence thou art fallen, and repent, and do the first works; or else I will come unto thee quickly, and will remove thy candlestick out of his place, except thou repent." Revelation 2:4, 5.

This is the condition of the church today but individually Christ invites us to repent and return to Him with open hearts that we may receive that gold He speaks of. Our faith and love will expand as we allow Jesus to work in us and for us. But not just for us but for the saving of souls. Then we will have a church ready to go forth in love and faith to spread the gospel and shine with the character of Christ. God has so much truth to reveal to each one. It's old truth made new. It is exhaustless.

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--28--Levi-Matthew
Post by: Richard Myers on February 16, 2021, 06:04:19 AM

Amen Sister Dorine!!  As it was then with God's organized church, so it is today. The teaching leads people to believe they are converted when they are not. It is the heart Jesus wants, the whole heart. Outward obedience and profession is not good enough. We must be dead to self, the character must be free from defects. The heart cleansed from all sin. Though it be as scarlet, the grace of God will purify it if we give it all to Him completely. This is a foreign though to a Laodicean because he is fine just as he is, lost in his sin.

Today there is a most pernicious teaching that declares we all when truly converted retain our character defects and it is only the final generation who are the 144,000 that will be free from their character defects. They give unconverted sinners salvation until then, excusing moral character defects that are covered by the substitution of Christ's righteousness. Christ stands in our place, even in the Investigative Judgment. Some go so far as to teach that the 144,000 do not need the imputed righteousness of Christ, that they have the righteousness of Christ imparted to them. It is true they do have the imparted righteousness of Christ, but they also are in need of His imputed righteousness also.

 "The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit: a broken and a contrite heart, O God, Thou wilt not despise." Psalm 51:17. Man must be emptied of self before he can be, in the fullest sense, a believer in Jesus. When self is renounced, then the Lord can make man a new creature. New bottles can contain the new wine. The love of Christ will animate the believer with new life. In him who looks unto the Author and Finisher of our faith the character of Christ will be manifest.

What then is the difference between those living saints at the coming of Christ and those who are truly converted today? There may be enochs in our day, but for most who are converted, they are not able to go through a time of trouble such as never was. Not because they retain character defects, but because their characters have not been matured to be able to have their finger nails pulled out. Jesus could not go through Gethsemane when He was 18 years old. His moral character was always perfect, but not mature. Though he were a Son, yet learned he obedience by the things which he suffered;  And being made perfect, he became the author of eternal salvation unto all them that obey him." Hebrews 5:8,9.

So it is with all when first converted. Conversion is the end of a long protracted process of wooing by the Holy Spirit. Self has been crucified and the Holy Spirit has possession of the heart, the whole heart. All of the fruits of the Spirit are manifested, not one is missing.
 
What of the 144,000 when probation closes? Their characters are close to fully mature, but not yet, no matter what is being taught. It is true that they are settled into the truth so that they will not sin no matter what. But, God leaves them on this Earth for a purpose. He allows Satan to do as he wishes with them, but he cannot kill them. Why? One reason is that the trials will fully mature their characters. They will give much glory to God and vindicate He who came to this dark spot in the universe to suffer and die in our places. The universe will see that Satan's charges against God are untrue. That sinful fallen man can keep God's commands no matter what.

You and I are not there yet, but that does not mean you retain your character defects. Yes, apart from God you will sin, they will be revealed, but not as long as you are fully surrendered to God. Moral character defects are sin. We live in evil fallen flesh. We must keep the flesh which is evil under control which is only possible if we are abiding in Christ and filled with the Holy Spirit. Self is involved and as Paul states, "I keep under my body, and bring it into subjection: lest that by any means, when I have preached to others, I myself should be a castaway." 1 Cor. 9:27. "Body," is the flesh. By God's grace self can remain dead, character defects kept under.  In him who looks unto the Author and Finisher of our faith the character of Christ will be manifest.

Amen! Keep Jesus at the center of all we teach. It is by grace we are saved, not by our own works.

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--28--Levi-Matthew
Post by: Pastor Sean Brizendine on February 16, 2021, 06:42:42 AM

God heals our characters as we look to Jesus and choose His will of love. Let us grow in grace and behold the true character of Christ on a continual basis!

"'The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit: a broken and a contrite heart, O God, Thou wilt not despise.' Psalm 51:17. Man must be emptied of self before he can be, in the fullest sense, a believer in Jesus. When self is renounced, then the Lord can make man a new creature. New bottles can contain the new wine. The love of Christ will animate the believer with new life. In him who looks unto the Author and Finisher of our faith the character of Christ will be manifest." {The Desire of Ages, page 280, paragraph 4}

As we look to Christ, there is hope for the most broken soul. All of the fruits of the Spirit will be seen in our lives without one missing as long as we choose Him continually!

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--28--Levi-Matthew
Post by: Beacon on February 16, 2021, 07:20:32 AM

"Of the Roman officials in Palestine, none were more hated than the publicans. The fact that the taxes were imposed by a foreign power was a continual irritation to the Jews, being a reminder that their independence had departed. And the taxgatherers were not merely the instruments of Roman oppression; they were extortioners on their own account, enriching themselves at the expense of the people. A Jew who accepted this office at the hands of the Romans was looked upon as betraying the honor of his nation. He was despised as an apostate, and was classed with the vilest of society."

"But"... Jesus saw in this man a heart open for the reception of truth.

Matthew had listened to the Saviour's teaching. As the convicting Spirit of God revealed his sinfulness, he longed to seek help from Christ; but he was accustomed to the exclusiveness of the rabbis, and had no thought that this GreatTeacher would notice him.

"Sitting at his toll booth one day, the publican saw Jesus approaching. Great was his astonishment to hear the words addressed to himself, "Follow Me." Matthew "left all, rose up, and followed Him." There was no hesitation, no questioning, no thought of the lucrative business to be exchanged for poverty and hardship.

It was enough for him that he was to be with Jesus, that he might listen to His words, and unite with Him in His work."

WHAT A TREMENDOUS LESSON ON PRE-JUDGING OTHERS....NO WONDER JESUS SAID in Matthew 7..

"Judge not, that ye be not judged. For with what judgment ye judge, ye shall be judged: and with what measure ye mete, it shall be measured to you again. And why beholdest thou the mote that is in thy brother's eye, but considerest not the beam that is in thine own eye."

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--28--Levi-Matthew
Post by: Philip T on February 16, 2021, 07:47:25 AM

    Sitting at his toll booth one day, the publican saw Jesus approaching. Great was his astonishment to hear the words addressed to himself, "Follow Me."
     Matthew "left all, rose up, and followed Him." There was no hesitation, no questioning, no thought of the lucrative business to be exchanged for poverty and hardship. It was enough for him that he was to be with Jesus, that he might listen to His words, and unite with Him in His work.
     So it was with the disciples previously called. When Jesus bade Peter and his companions follow Him, immediately they left their boats and nets. Some of these disciples had friends dependent on them for support; but when they received the Saviour's invitation, they did not hesitate, and inquire, How shall I live, and sustain my family? They were obedient to the call; and when afterward Jesus asked them, "When I sent you without purse, and scrip, and shoes, lacked ye anything?" they could answer, "Nothing." Luke 22:35.
     To Matthew in his wealth, and to Andrew and Peter in their poverty, the same test was brought; the same consecration was made by each. At the moment of success, when the nets were filled with fish, and the impulses of the old life were strongest, Jesus asked the disciples at the sea to leave all for the work of the gospel. So every soul is tested as to whether the desire for temporal good or for fellowship with Christ is strongest.

The critical test given to Matthew, Andrew and Peter was the same surrender all Jesus and follow Him, this they did without compromise, all that mattered was walking with Jesus. This is the only way to be a true follower/believer in Christ. Are we willing to let go of all this world has to offer and follow Christ?  This is when Jesus and His Helper the Holy Spirit can work in our lives and we can be used to plant God's truth into the hearts of those around us.

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--28--Levi-Matthew
Post by: Pastor Sean Brizendine on February 16, 2021, 10:34:45 AM

Amen, Sister Dorine, Brother Richard, Brother Philip, and Brother Beacon! As we unitedly behold the loveliness of Jesus and experience His true character, we become like Him and we experience true unity!

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--28--Levi-Matthew
Post by: Richard Myers on February 16, 2021, 02:13:11 PM

Amen Pastor Sean. When we surrender the whole heart and mind, not only does Jesus perfect character stand in place of our faulty character, He imparts, gives to us, His moral character with love, joy, and peace. We may not see it in us, but others clearly see we have been transformed in character. There is seen a clear difference between those who love Jesus supremely and those who do not.

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--28--Levi-Matthew
Post by: Beacon on May 14, 2021, 04:54:09 AM

"Sitting at his toll booth one day, the publican saw Jesus approaching. Great was his astonishment to hear the words addressed to himself, "Follow Me." Matthew "left all, rose up, and followed Him." There was no hesitation, no questioning, no thought of the lucrative business to be exchanged for poverty and hardship."

"It was enough for him that he was to be with Jesus, that he might listen to His words, and unite with Him in His work."

WHAT A TREMENDOUS LESSON ON PRE-JUDGING OTHERS....NO WONDER JESUS SAID in
Matthew 7..
"Judge not, that ye be not judged. For with what judgment ye judge, ye shall be judged: and with what measure ye mete, it shall be measured to you again. And why beholdest thou the mote that is in thy brother's eye, but considerest not the beam that is in thine own eye."

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--28--Levi-Matthew
Post by: Richard Myers on May 14, 2021, 06:24:35 AM

Amen Brother Beacon!  We are not to reprove another unless we know we are truly living for Christ and have His Spirit dwelling within. Then we shall have removed the beam from our own eye.

   But although the Pharisees thought so highly of themselves, they were really in a worse condition than the ones they despised. The publicans were less bigoted and self-sufficient, and thus were more open to the influence of truth. Jesus said to the rabbis, "Go ye and learn what that meaneth, I will have mercy, and not sacrifice." Thus He showed that while they claimed to expound the word of God, they were wholly ignorant of its spirit. 

Today we have not only liberals who think they are saved when committing a known sin, but those like the Pharisees who expound the law but have no understanding of its Spirit. They do not expound the fruits of the Spirit, only the law. They see not that they are working against God and the plan of salvation. Let us each morning  behold the loveliness of Jesus that we might be fully surrendered and filled with the Holy Spirit.

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--28--Levi-Matthew
Post by: Dorine on May 14, 2021, 06:45:28 AM

"The teaching of Christ, though it was represented by the new wine, was not a new doctrine, but the revelation of that which had been taught from the beginning. But to the Pharisees the truth of God had lost its original significance and beauty. To them Christ's teaching was new in almost every respect, and it was unrecognized and unacknowledged."

We find the same thinking today. As I listen to many of our brothers and sisters talk that have been raised in this message I wonder at what fountain they are drinking. No matter what the world is doing or saying we must not get caught up with erroneous ideas that contradict the bible. If we are not sure of our relationship with Jesus and if the bible is not our standard to live by in every area of our lives, how will we ever give the pure gospel to those that know no different.

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--28--Levi-Matthew
Post by: Pastor Sean Brizendine on May 14, 2021, 08:08:58 AM

Amen, Brother Beacon, Brother Richard, and Sister Dorine!

May we realize what God truly desires in our characters and go to Jesus to have the experience of character He offers us. When we "behold the Lamb of God, which taketh away the sin of the world" (John 1:29), we will appreciate the new heart He offers us that is cleansed by His atoning blood, renewed by the Holy Spirit, and imbued with all of the fruits of the Spirit without one missing! We cannot produce the character God alone can give us, but we can consent and cooperate with Jesus who is seeking to restore in us His image which has been ruined by sin. Thankfully, that work of grace was powerfully wrought out in the life of Levi-Matthew, the fifth disciple Jesus directly called after Andrew, John, Peter and James. The gospel today still has the same power to transform sinners into saints and keep them from falling back into sin.

"'The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit: a broken and a contrite heart, O God, Thou wilt not despise.' Psalm 51:17. Man must be emptied of self before he can be, in the fullest sense, a believer in Jesus. When self is renounced, then the Lord can make man a new creature. New bottles can contain the new wine. The love of Christ will animate the believer with new life. In him who looks unto the Author and Finisher of our faith the character of Christ will be manifest." {The Desire of Ages, page 280, paragraph 4}

Jesus will complete what He has begun in your life if you will but keep looking to Him and yielding fully to Him. No matter how great the trials you face, no matter what people may think of you, let Christ in you the hope of glory keep your focus heavenward in a true character building experience that will reflect love and purity as attributes He most desires in His children!

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--28--Levi-Matthew
Post by: Philip T on May 14, 2021, 06:48:29 PM

  To Matthew in his wealth, and to Andrew and Peter in their poverty, the same test was brought; the same consecration was made by each. At the moment of success, when the nets were filled with fish, and the impulses of the old life were strongest, Jesus asked the disciples at the sea to leave all for the work of the gospel. So every soul is tested as to whether the desire for temporal good or for fellowship with Christ is strongest.

We each must be willing to surrender totally to Jesus, no matter the success of the world in our lives.  Just as Matthew had to give up his lucrative business, The disciples with their nets full and boats near sinking, they had the same test to surrender it to God. We need to do the same today, if we are to follow and work for Christ the test is the same, perhaps a little different in circumstances but the same. Surrender all to Christ today.

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--28--Levi-Matthew
Post by: Dorine on August 09, 2021, 05:49:14 AM

"To Matthew in his wealth, and to Andrew and Peter in their poverty, the same test was brought; the same consecration was made by each. At the moment of success, when the nets were filled with fish, and the impulses of the old life were strongest, Jesus asked the disciples at the sea to leave all for the work of the gospel. So every soul is tested as to whether the desire for temporal good or for fellowship with Christ is strongest."
It always amazes me that although the disciples had families to care for they did not hesitate to leave their professions and follow Jesus. As we are wooed by Jesus we are attracted to His love. Like Peter if we do not resist the promptings of the Holy Spirit we will be drawn to the lovely character of Jesus and will not hesitate to leave all to follow Him where ever He may lead.

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--28--Levi-Matthew
Post by: Philip T on August 09, 2021, 10:47:22 AM

   John the Baptist had rejoiced to behold the Saviour. What occasion for rejoicing had the disciples who were privileged to walk and talk with the Majesty of heaven! This was not a time for them to mourn and fast. They must open their hearts to receive the light of His glory, that they might shed light upon those who sat in darkness and in the shadow of death.

Today as we study the life of Jesus, his teaching in scripture daily, we should be rejoicing in the plan of salvation, in Christs example and teachings for us, with an open, surrendered, and contrite heart to receive the light contained in God's word, and only by receiving it can we shed that light to others. Fill My Cup, Lord

Like the woman at the well
I was seeking
For things that could not satisfy
And then I heard my Savior speaking
"Draw from My well that never shall run dry"

Fill my cup, Lord
I lift it up, Lord
Come and quench this thirsting of my soul
Bread of Heaven, feed me 'til I want no more
Fill my cup, fill it up and make me whole

There are millions in this world
Who are craving
The pleasures, earthly things of gold
But none can match the wondrous treasure
That I find in Jesus Christ my Lord

Fill my cup, Lord
I lift it up, Lord
Come and quench this thirsting of my soul
Bread of Heaven, feed me 'til I want no more
Fill my cup, fill it up and make me whole
Here's my cup, fill it up and make me wholeay this Hymn be our prayer to God today.

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--28--Levi-Matthew
Post by: Beacon on August 09, 2021, 11:17:58 AM

"When Jesus bade Peter and his companions follow Him, immediately they left their boats and nets.

Some of these disciples had friends dependent on them for support; but when they received the Saviour's invitation, they did not hesitate, and inquire, How shall I live, and sustain my family? They were obedient to the call and when afterward Jesus asked them, "When I sent you without purse, and scrip, and shoes, lacked ye anything?" they could answer, "Nothing." Luke 22:35.

 "To Matthew in his wealth, and to Andrew and Peter in their poverty, the same test was brought; the same consecration was made by each."

"At the moment of success, when the nets were filled with fish, and the impulses of the old life were strongest, Jesus asked the disciples at the sea to leave all for the work of the gospel."

"So every soul is tested as to whether the desire for temporal good or for fellowship with Christ is strongest"

WHAT WILL OUR RESPONCE BE?

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--28--Levi-Matthew
Post by: Richard Myers on August 09, 2021, 09:43:29 PM

Amen Brother Beacon!  What will our response be?

Brother Philip, I love that hymn!!

Quote from: Dorine on August 09, 2021, 05:49:14 AM

"To Matthew in his wealth, and to Andrew and Peter in their poverty, the same test was brought; the same consecration was made by each. At the moment of success, when the nets were filled with fish, and the impulses of the old life were strongest, Jesus asked the disciples at the sea to leave all for the work of the gospel. So every soul is tested as to whether the desire for temporal good or for fellowship with Christ is strongest."
It always amazes me that although the disciples had families to care for they did not hesitate to leave their professions and follow Jesus. As we are wooed by Jesus we are attracted to His love. Like Peter if we do not resist the promptings of the Holy Spirit we will be drawn to the lovely character of Jesus and will not hesitate to leave all to follow Him where ever He may lead.

Amen Sister Dorine. I was moved by this truth this morning. Which way are we looking, to the unseen world, or this world which is soon to pass away? God help us to look beyond what we see with our eyes to the world which is unseen. That we might be a blessing to those who cannot see beyond their trials in this world.

Our success if all from God for us to glorify Him. Let us keep our eyes upon Jesus that self might remain buried.

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--28--Levi-Matthew
Post by: Beacon on November 03, 2021, 08:41:12 PM

"If there is any good in you, it is wholly attributable to the mercy of a compassionate Saviour."

"Your birth, your reputation, your wealth, your talents, your virtues, your piety, your philanthropy, or anything else in you or connected with you, "Will Not" form a bond of union between your soul and Christ."

"Your connection with the church, the manner in which your brethren regard you, will be of no avail...unless you believe in Christ.

"It is not enough to believe about Him; you must believe in Him. You must rely wholly upon His saving grace."

May our daily prayer be the same as expressed in this hymn written by ...
Mrs. Ada A. Whiddington (1891) & Music by Albert Benjamin Simpson
   
Not I, but Christ be honored, loved, exalted,
Not I, but Christ be seen, be known and heard;
Not I, but Christ in every look and acti on,
Not I, but Christ in every thought and word.
    Oh, to be saved from myself, dear Lord,
  Oh, to be lost in Thee,
Oh, that it may be no more I,
    But Christ that lives in me.
2
Not I, but Christ to gently soothe in sorrow,
Not I, but Christ to wipe the falling tear;
Not I, but Christ to lift the weary burden,
Not I, but Christ to hush away all fear.
3
Christ, only Christ, no idle word e’er falling,
Christ, only Christ, no needless bustling sound;
Christ, only Christ, no self-important bearing,
Christ, only Christ, no trace of I be found.
4
Not I, but Christ my every need supplying,
Not I, but Christ my strength and health to be;
Christ, only Christ, for spirit, soul, and body,
Christ, only Christ, live then Thy life in me.
5
Christ, only Christ, ere long will fill my vision,
Glory excelling soon, full soon I’ll see;
Christ, only Christ, my every wish fulfilling,
Christ, only Christ, my all in all to be.

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--28--Levi-Matthew
Post by: Dorine on November 04, 2021, 05:48:44 AM

"The Pharisees thought themselves too wise to need instruction, too righteous to need salvation, too highly honored to need the honor that comes from Christ. The Saviour turned away from them to find others who would receive the message of heaven. In the untutored fishermen, in the publican at the market place, in the woman of Samaria, in the common people who heard Him gladly, He found His new bottles for the new wine. The instrumentalities to be used in the gospel work are those souls who gladly receive the light which God sends them. These are His agencies for imparting the knowledge of truth to the world. If through the grace of Christ His people will become new bottles, He will fill them with new wine."

Jesus yearns for all to accept Him and follow in His footsteps teaching others what He has taught them. My prayer as I start this new day is that I will be a new bottle for Jesus to fill with new wine. He takes the humble and teachable and makes them extraordinary workers for Him.

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--28--Levi-Matthew
Post by: Pastor Sean Brizendine on November 04, 2021, 06:06:11 AM

Praise the Lord, Brother Beacon and Sister Dorine!

Do you discern the presence of Jesus? Do you realize that He is your personal Savior, and have you surrendered your heart fully so He as your Lord can lead you in the path that is best? As you look to Christ's infinite love, an intelligent appreciation of His self-sacrifice will stir you to "go and do likewise" to what He has done in reflecting His true character--all of the fruits of the Spirit without one missing in humble obedience to all of His Ten Commandments! As our High Priest in heaven, He is even now interceding for us to help us walk in His victorious character experience, blotting out our sins that are confessed in true repentance, and preparing us for His soon return in power and great glory!

"When He should come forth from the tomb, their sorrow would be turned to joy. After His ascension He was to be absent in person; but through the Comforter He would still be with them, and they were not to spend their time in mourning. This was what Satan wanted. He desired them to give the world the impression that they had been deceived and disappointed; but by faith they were to look to the sanctuary above, where Jesus was ministering for them; they were to open their hearts to the Holy Spirit, His representative, and to rejoice in the light of His presence. Yet days of temptation and trial would come, when they would be brought into conflict with the rulers of this world, and the leaders of the kingdom of darkness; when Christ was not personally with them, and they failed to discern the Comforter, then it would be more fitting for them to fast." {The Desire of Ages, page 277, paragraph 4}

Christ is waiting to guide each of us in the path that He knows to be best. Constant union and communion with God is open to each of our hearts! Let us rejoice in the Lord always and praise Him who gives the Holy Spirit as we ask and surrender to Him!

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--28--Levi-Matthew
Post by: Richard Myers on November 04, 2021, 09:31:14 PM

Amen Pastor Sean!! Trials will come, trials have come! We glory in them for they work for God's glory and our good as we abide in Jesus and He in us.

What was today's reading all about? Levi-Matthew. What is so important about Matthew? He and his friends were of "doubtful reputation," yet Jesus chose him as an evangelist. He sat down with Matthew and his friends and He knew it was going to be an offense against the religious, social, and national customs.

    The entertainment was given in honor of Jesus, and He did not hesitate to accept the courtesy. He well knew that this would give offense to the Pharisaic party, and would also compromise Him in the eyes of the people. But no question of policy could influence His movements. With Him external distinctions weighed nothing. That which appealed to His heart was a soul thirsting for the water of life.
     Jesus sat as an honored guest at the table of the publicans, by His sympathy and social kindliness showing that He recognized the dignity of humanity; and men longed to become worthy of His confidence. Upon their thirsty hearts His words fell with blessed, life-giving power. New impulses were awakened, and the possibility of a new life opened to these outcasts of society.   
     At such gatherings as this, not a few were impressed by the Saviour's teaching who did not acknowledge Him until after His ascension. When the Holy Spirit was poured out, and three thousand were converted in a day, there were among them many who first heard the truth at the table of the publicans, and some of these became messengers of the gospel. To Matthew himself the example of Jesus at the feast was a constant lesson. The despised publican became one of the most devoted evangelists, in his own ministry following closely in his Master's steps. 

So it will be in our day. There are some of "doubtful reputation" that if we will allow the character of Christ to be manifest in us will seek to know how it is that we could be so loving and caring for those who have been neglected by the world.

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--28--Levi-Matthew
Post by: Beacon on January 29, 2022, 08:14:55 PM

"When the Holy Spirit was poured out, and three thousand were converted in a day...

"There were among them many who first heard the truth at the table of the publicans, and some of these became messengers of the gospel."

"To Matthew himself, the example of Jesus at the feast was a constant lesson. The despised publican became one of the most devoted evangelists, in his own ministry following closely in his Master's steps."

"To Matthew in his wealth, and to Andrew and Peter in their poverty, the same test was brought; the same consecration was made by each."

"At the moment of success, when the nets were filled with fish, and the impulses of the old life were strongest, Jesus asked the disciples at the sea to leave all for the work of the gospel."

"So every soul is tested as to whether the desire for temporal good or for fellowship with Christ is strongest"

Today Jesus is inviting us all to Take Up the Cross and Follow Him.

WHAT WILL OUR RESPONSE BE?

Take my life, and let it be
Consecrated, Lord, to Thee;
Take my moments and my days,
Let them flow in ceaseless praise,
Let them flow in ceaseless praise.
2
Take my hands, and let them move
At the impulse of Thy love;
Take my feet and let them be
Swift and beautiful for Thee,
Swift and beautiful for Thee.
3
Take my voice, and let me sing
Always, only, for my King;
Take my lips, and let them be
Filled with messages from Thee,
Filled with messages from Thee.
4
Take my silver and my gold;
Not a mite would I withhold;
Take my intellect, and use
Every power as Thou shalt choose,
Every power as Thou shalt choose.
5
Take my will, and make it Thine;
It shall be no longer mine.
Take my heart; it is Thine own;
It shall be Thy royal throne,
It shall be Thy royal throne.
6
Take my love; my Lord, I pour
At Thy feet its treasure-store.
Take myself, and I will be
Ever, only, all for Thee,
Ever, only, all for Thee.

Lyrics:Frances Ridley Havergal (1836-1879)
Music:Henri Abraham Cesar Malan (1787-1864)

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--28--Levi-Matthew
Post by: Dorine on January 30, 2022, 05:04:59 AM

"Jesus sat as an honored guest at the table of the publicans, by His sympathy and social kindliness showing that He recognized the dignity of humanity; and men longed to become worthy of His confidence. Upon their thirsty hearts His words fell with blessed, life-giving power. New impulses were awakened, and the possibility of a new life opened to these outcasts of society."

As I sit at the feet of Jesus each morning meditating on His words I am learning day by day the ways in which He wants me to walk. He is a loving, compassionate friend to sinners. Do we present Him as such in the way in which we talk and live? The Holy Spirit will use us to bring hope to the hopeless and to show them the better way. 

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--28--Levi-Matthew
Post by: Richard Myers on January 30, 2022, 07:37:34 PM

Oh yes, and it is so difficult for some who appear to be beyond help.   We do what we can, just as Jesus did. An encouraging word if nothing else

Over and over again we hear the same message regarding what God wants to do for us. And, it is so foreign to the church that many just don't want to hear it.

 "The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit: a broken and a contrite heart, O God, Thou wilt not despise." Psalm 51:17. Man must be emptied of self before he can be, in the fullest sense, a believer in Jesus. When self is renounced, then the Lord can make man a new creature. New bottles can contain the new wine. The love of Christ will animate the believer with new life. In him who looks unto the Author and Finisher of our faith the character of Christ will be manifest.

Grace is more than a word, it is the power that transforms the life (the character) when the heart is fully given to God.

And as Brother Beacon has pointed out, when things are going well for us in the world, the test come. Where will we spend our time, in ministering to others, or working in the world for our prosperity in it? Which is more important? Where is our heart? In the world or in Christ?

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--28--Levi-Matthew
Post by: Beacon on April 26, 2022, 08:12:18 PM

"Jesus sat as an honored guest at the table of the publicans."

"By His sympathy and social kindliness showing that He recognized the dignity of humanity."

"Men longed to become worthy of His confidence."

"Upon their thirsty hearts His words fell with blessed, life-giving power. New impulses were awakened, and the possibility of a new life opened to these outcasts of society."
   
"At such gatherings as this, not a few were impressed by the Saviour's teaching who did not acknowledge Him until after His ascension. When the Holy Spirit was poured out, and three thousand were converted in a day, there were among them many who first heard the truth at the table of the publicans."

"To Matthew himself the example of Jesus at the feast was a constant lesson."

"The despised publican became one of the most devoted evangelists, in his own ministry following closely in his Master's steps."

Let us turn our eyes upon Jesus The One who's sees Limitless Possibilities in all humanity and pray that we might be true representatives of...His Saving Grace. 

=============================

     O soul, are you weary and troubled?
No light in the darkness you see?
There’s light for a look at the Savior,
And life more abundant and free.
    Turn your eyes upon Jesus,
Look full in His wonderful face,
And the things of earth will grow strangely dim,
  In the light of His glory and grace.
2
Through death into life everlasting
He passed, and we follow Him there;
O’er us sin no more hath dominion
For more than conqu’rors we are!
3
His Word shall not fail you, He promised;
Believe Him and all will be well;
Then go to a world that is dying,
His perfect salvation to tell!

Lyrics & Music: Helen Howarth Lemmel (1863-1961)

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--28--Levi-Matthew
Post by: Dorine on April 27, 2022, 04:46:24 AM

"Principle is always exacting. No man can succeed in the service of God unless his whole heart is in the work and he counts all things but loss for the excellency of the knowledge of Christ. No man who makes any reserve can be the disciple of Christ, much less can he be His colaborer. When men appreciate the great salvation, the self-sacrifice seen in Christ's life will be seen in theirs. Wherever He leads the way, they will rejoice to follow."

It is with joy that we as God's children take up the work that Jesus has left for us to do. We serve not because we are obliged to but because we count it a great privilege to do so. We willingly and cheerfully surrender all to Jesus  ministering to those who are outcasts of society and those who are hungering for truth. What a mission field we have before us as we labour together with God.

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--28--Levi-Matthew
Post by: Pastor Sean Brizendine on April 27, 2022, 05:31:42 AM

Amen, Brother Beacon and Sister Dorine!!

"'The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit: a broken and a contrite heart, O God, Thou wilt not despise.' Psalm 51:17. Man must be emptied of self before he can be, in the fullest sense, a believer in Jesus. When self is renounced, then the Lord can make man a new creature. New bottles can contain the new wine. The love of Christ will animate the believer with new life. In him who looks unto the Author and Finisher of our faith the character of Christ will be manifest." {The Desire of Ages, page 280, paragraph 4} 

True repentance is a gift from God. By beholding Christ continually, yielding the whole heart to Him, we can experience true conversion and growth in character whereby not only all of the fruits of the Spirit are manifest without one missing, but each trait of Christ's character in us grows in expression and application to bless others as we gladly obey God from the new heart! 

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--28--Levi-Matthew
Post by: Richard Myers on April 27, 2022, 07:47:41 AM

Every day we are beholding the loveliness of Jesus. Every day we grow closer and closer to the One who loves us more and more. Such a blessing! As Pastor Sean has seen, "By beholding Christ continually, yielding the whole heart to Him, we can experience true conversion and growth in character..."  Sister Dorine has pointed out that "no man can succeed in the service of God unless his whole heart is in the work." We can hold nothing back when we love Jesus with the whole heart. We surrender all that we are and all that we have to Him who gave all for us while we were yet sinners. And Brother Beacon encourages us: "O’er us sin no more hath dominion For more than conqu’rors we are!"  Amen!!

What a blessing to come into unity of Spirit and doctrine!! For those who are reading, come and join with us in sharing what Jesus is revealing to you! Witness the power of grace in your life to a world soon to perish.

When Jesus returned to His Father, were the disciples left with His presence? Yes, they were, but He did not leave them without help. While He cannot be in all places since He gave that up when He took upon Himself our nature and is bound by His humanity, He said He would send One who would help us, the Comforter, the third Person of the godhead, the Holy Spirit.

     When He should come forth from the tomb, their sorrow would be turned to joy. After His ascension He was to be absent in person; but through the Comforter He would still be with them, and they were not to spend their time in mourning. This was what Satan wanted. He desired them to give the world the impression that they had been deceived and disappointed; but by faith they were to look to the sanctuary above, where Jesus was ministering for them; they were to open their hearts to the Holy Spirit, His representative, and to rejoice in the light of His presence. Yet days of temptation and trial would come, when they would be brought into conflict with the rulers of this world, and the leaders of the kingdom of darkness; when Christ was not personally with them, and they failed to discern the Comforter, then it would be more fitting for them to fast.

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--28--Levi-Matthew
Post by: Beacon on July 22, 2022, 08:04:20 PM

"When Jesus bade Peter and his companions follow Him, immediately they left their boats and nets."

"Some of these disciples had friends dependent on them for support; but when they received the Saviour's invitation, they did not hesitate, and inquire, How shall I live, and sustain my family?

"They were obedient to the call and when afterward Jesus asked them..."

"When I sent you without purse, and scrip, and shoes, lacked ye anything?" they could answer, "Nothing." Luke 22:35."

 "To Matthew in his wealth, and to Andrew and Peter in their poverty, the same test was brought; the same consecration was made by each."

"At the moment of success, when the nets were filled with fish, and the impulses of the old life were strongest, Jesus asked the disciples at the sea to leave all for the work of the gospel."

"So every soul is tested as to whether the desire for temporal good or for fellowship with Christ is strongest"

WHAT WILL OUR RESPONSE BE?

==========================

1
Take my life, and let it be
Consecrated, Lord, to Thee;
Take my moments and my days,
Let them flow in ceaseless praise,
Let them flow in ceaseless praise.
2
Take my hands, and let them move
At the impulse of Thy love;
Take my feet and let them be
Swift and beautiful for Thee,
Swift and beautiful for Thee.
3
Take my voice, and let me sing
Always, only, for my King;
Take my lips, and let them be
Filled with messages from Thee,
Filled with messages from Thee.
4
Take my silver and my gold;
Not a mite would I withhold;
Take my intellect, and use
Every power as Thou shalt choose,
Every power as Thou shalt choose.
5
Take my will, and make it Thine;
It shall be no longer mine.
Take my heart; it is Thine own;
It shall be Thy royal throne,
It shall be Thy royal throne.
6
Take my love; my Lord, I pour
At Thy feet its treasure-store.
Take myself, and I will be
Ever, only, all for Thee,
Ever, only, all for Thee.

Lyrics:Frances Ridley Havergal (1836-1879)
Music:Henri Abraham Cesar Malan (1787-1864)

HAPPY SABBATH JESUS, AND TO ALL GOD'S CHILDREN AROUND THE WORLD AND BEYOND!

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--28--Levi-Matthew
Post by: Pastor Sean Brizendine on July 23, 2022, 04:02:35 AM

Amen, Brother Beacon!!

Happy Sabbath! Let us allow Jesus to do in us the true heart work that makes us like Him in mind and character as we overcome sin through union and communion with Him, receiving new hearts that have all of the fruits of the Spirit without one missing as we gladly obey God's law of love!

"'The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit: a broken and a contrite heart, O God, Thou wilt not despise.' Psalm 51:17. Man must be emptied of self before he can be, in the fullest sense, a believer in Jesus. When self is renounced, then the Lord can make man a new creature. New bottles can contain the new wine. The love of Christ will animate the believer with new life. In him who looks unto the Author and Finisher of our faith the character of Christ will be manifest." {The Desire of Ages, page 280, paragraph 4}

What a joy to have Jesus revealed in our characters today to bless others in willing service! Go forth with Christ and let Him be revealed to this world I harmony with the present truth messages for this time calling people to prepare for His return in experiencing true conversion and proclaiming the three angels' messages of Revelation 14! Christ is coming!! He will prepare our hearts as we grow in His grace!

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--28--Levi-Matthew
Post by: Richard Myers on July 23, 2022, 08:35:20 AM

Amen my dear brother!!  Sadly the church remains in a Laodicean condition where many do not know their spiritual destitution. The Words of Jesus are a warning to the church of today.

   As it was in the days of Christ, so it is now; the Pharisees do not know their spiritual destitution. To them comes the message, "Because thou sayest, I am rich, and increased with goods, and have need of nothing; and knowest not that thou art wretched, and miserable, and poor, and blind, and naked: I counsel thee to buy of Me gold tried in the fire, that thou mayest be rich; and white raiment, that thou mayest be clothed, and that the shame of thy nakedness do not appear." Revelation 3:17, 18. Faith and love are the gold tried in the fire. But with many the gold has become dim, and the rich treasure has been lost. The righteousness of Christ is to them as a robe unworn, a fountain untouched. To them it is said, "I have somewhat against thee, because thou hast left thy first love. Remember therefore from whence thou art fallen, and repent, and do the first works; or else I will come unto thee quickly, and will remove thy candlestick out of his place, except thou repent." Revelation 2:4, 5.
     "The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit: a broken and a contrite heart, O God, Thou wilt not despise." Psalm 51:17. Man must be emptied of self before he can be, in the fullest sense, a believer in Jesus. When self is renounced, then the Lord can make man a new creature. New bottles can contain the new wine. The love of Christ will animate the believer with new life. In him who looks unto the Author and Finisher of our faith the character of Christ will be manifest.

Quote from: Beacon on July 22, 2022, 08:04:20 PM

"When I sent you without purse, and scrip, and shoes, lacked ye anything?" they could answer, "Nothing." Luke 22:35."

Amen Brother Beacon!! I can testify of the same. God provides for all we need when trusting in Him.

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--28--Levi-Matthew
Post by: Beacon on October 17, 2022, 10:14:07 PM

"That which appealed to the heart of Jesus was a soul thirsting for the water of life."

"Jesus sat as an honored guest at the table of the publicans."

"By His sympathy and social kindliness showing that He recognized the dignity of humanity; and men longed to become worthy of His confidence."

"Upon their thirsty hearts His words fell with blessed, life-giving power."

"New impulses were awakened."

"The possibility of a new life opened to these outcasts of society."
   
"When the Holy Spirit was poured out, and three thousand were converted in a day, there were among them many who first heard the truth at the table of the publicans, and some of these became messengers of the gospel."

"To Matthew himself the example of Jesus at the feast was a constant lesson."

"The despised publican became one of the most devoted evangelists, in his own ministry following closely in his Master's steps."

Do"WE" exhibit social kindness to those we interact with? Are "WE" constantly looking for ways to draw people to Jesus so they can be touched by His Love, Mercy and Grace?

=======================
1
Earthly pleasures vainly call me,
  I would be like Jesus;
Nothing worldly shall enthrall me,
  I would be like Jesus.
    Be like Jesus, this my song,
  In the home and in the throng;
Be like Jesus, all day long!
    I would be like Jesus.
2
He has broken every fetter,
  I would be like Jesus;
That my soul may serve Him better,
  I would be like Jesus.
3
All the way from earth to glory,
  I would be like Jesus;
Telling o’er and o’er the story,
  I would be like Jesus.

Lyrics:James Rowe (1866-1933)
Music:Bentley DeForest Ackley (1872-1958)

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--28--Levi-Matthew
Post by: Dorine on October 18, 2022, 06:49:03 AM

"To Matthew in his wealth, and to Andrew and Peter in their poverty, the same test was brought; the same consecration was made by each. At the moment of success, when the nets were filled with fish, and the impulses of the old life were strongest, Jesus asked the disciples at the sea to leave all for the work of the gospel. So every soul is tested as to whether the desire for temporal good or for fellowship with Christ is strongest."

Every day we make the choice between self or serving Jesus. It may be in little areas now but as times get tougher we will have to make decisions that will affect not just us personally but our families also. I always think of how remarkable it was for these disciples to leave everything not knowing how they will provide for their families. Do we believe the promise of Jesus that He will provide for our every need when we forsake all and follow Him? As I look back on my own life and the decisions I have made to serve Jesus I can say that although times were tough we were never hungry or without shelter. Life was good and we were happy and content. We knew Christ was looking after us.

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--28--Levi-Matthew
Post by: Pastor Sean Brizendine on October 18, 2022, 09:56:39 AM

Praise the Lord!! Amen, Brother Beacon and Sister Dorine!!

As we feel our need of total transformation of character, we can look to Christ and accept His divine grace to convert our hearts thoroughly and imbue us with all of the fruits of the Spirit so not one is missing! Then by the indwelling power of Christ in us the hope of glory, we can obey God up to the light He has revealed on our pathway!

"As it was in the days of Christ, so it is now; the Pharisees do not know their spiritual destitution. To them comes the message, 'Because thou sayest, I am rich, and increased with goods, and have need of nothing; and knowest not that thou art wretched, and miserable, and poor, and blind, and naked: I counsel thee to buy of Me gold tried in the fire, that thou mayest be rich; and white raiment, that thou mayest be clothed, and that the shame of thy nakedness do not appear.' Revelation 3:17, 18. Faith and love are the gold tried in the fire. But with many the gold has become dim, and the rich treasure has been lost. The righteousness of Christ is to them as a robe unworn, a fountain untouched. To them it is said, 'I have somewhat against thee, because thou hast left thy first love. Remember therefore from whence thou art fallen, and repent, and do the first works; or else I will come unto thee quickly, and will remove thy candlestick out of his place, except thou repent.' Revelation 2:4, 5." {The Desire of Ages, page 280, paragraph 3}

Repentance is a gift from God and empowers us to be true to principle, faithful to Jesus and not letting self come between us and Him so His faith working by love flows freely to bless others!!   

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--28--Levi-Matthew
Post by: Richard Myers on October 18, 2022, 08:35:50 PM

Such simple and power truth!! I too would be like Jesus, but I cannot do it, but in the power of God's grace He will help me do it! We all can testify that we have been supported in many ways by God. When He promises to look after us, we agree that He does in fact take care of us, else many of us would not be here today. And, on top of it all, we can be like Jesus, if we would spend a thoughtful hour a day contemplating the life of Jesus, especially those scenes where He took our stripes upon Himself! It is indeed the goodness of God that leads us to a full heart surrender of all we have and all we are.

  "The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit: a broken and a contrite heart, O God, Thou wilt not despise." Psalm 51:17. Man must be emptied of self before he can be, in the fullest sense, a believer in Jesus. When self is renounced, then the Lord can make man a new creature. New bottles can contain the new wine. The love of Christ will animate the believer with new life. In him who looks unto the Author and Finisher of our faith the character of Christ will be manifest.

No matter what others teach, He will indeed transform all who love Him supremely into His character (2 Cor. 3:18).

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--28--Levi-Matthew
Post by: Beacon on January 12, 2023, 09:47:58 PM

"Faith and love are the gold tried in the fire."


"With many the gold has become dim, and the rich treasure has been lost."

'The righteousness of Christ is to them as a robe unworn, a fountain untouched.

"To them it is said, 'I have somewhat against thee, because thou hast left thy first love. Remember therefore from whence thou art fallen, and repent, and do the first works; or else I will come unto thee quickly, and will remove thy candlestick out of his place, except thou repent.' Revelation 2:4, 5."

Perhaps as this New Year moves forward it would be good time for "US" to do another Spiritual Introspection! Has "OUR" Gold Become Dim or is it shinning Brightly?

=========================
1
Deeper, deeper, in the cross of Jesus;
  Deeper let me go;
Death and life, they always go together;
  Deepen, Lord, the flow.
    Oh, deeper yet we pray,
    Do work in us each day;
    Go deeper, through and through,
    Till in Thee we’re wholly new.
2
Higher, higher, in the life of Jesus;
  Lord, we are so low.
By Thy life we all can go much higher—
  Higher let us go.
    Oh, higher yet we pray—
    Transform us every day—
    And richer in the flow;
    May Thy life be all we know.
3
Growing, growing, in us He is growing,
  More and more each day.
Into all our living He is flowing—
  This is now His way.
    For growth, O Lord, we pray;
    Increase in us each day.
    It’s not enough to know;
    Now Thy life in us must grow.
4
Living, living, Christ is all our living,
  He’s so practical:
Small things, big things, anything and all things—
  He’s involved in all.
    Live Christ in every way;
    Oh, live Him out today.
    His name you now must call,
    And give Him your all for all.
5
Person, Person, Jesus is our Person,
  Living now in us.
He’s our tastes, our attitudes and actions;
  Oh, how glorious!
    Our Person, Lord, Thou art
    Make home in all our heart.
    As life in every way
    Be our Person, Lord, each day.
6
Churches, churches, in the local churches
  We all find the flow:
Deeper, higher, Christ as all our living,
  For the church we grow.
    The churches are today
    Just Christ in every way.
    For this, from self we cease,
    For Thy Body, Thine increase.
7
Building, building, we will see the building
  Of the church this way:
Christ experienced will produce the building—
  He’s the only way.
    Oh, build us, Lord, we pray,
    By growth of life each day.
    Oh, make us now such men
    For the new Jerusalem.
8
Coming, coming, Jesus soon is coming
  For His chosen Bride.
In the churches we are all preparing
  To be glorified.
    Lord Jesus, come again
    This cry is deep within
    We’ll praise Thee to the end,
    Oh, come back! Come back! Amen!

Lyrics:Adapted by W. F.
Music:Charles P. Jones (1900)

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--28--Levi-Matthew
Post by: Dorine on January 13, 2023, 04:55:52 AM

"The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit: a broken and a contrite heart, O God, Thou wilt not despise." Psalm 51:17. Man must be emptied of self before he can be, in the fullest sense, a believer in Jesus. When self is renounced, then the Lord can make man a new creature. New bottles can contain the new wine. The love of Christ will animate the believer with new life. In him who looks unto the Author and Finisher of our faith the character of Christ will be manifest."

This is a moment by moment experience every day. It's very sad to hear some of our people say that when you give your heart to Christ and are baptized that from then on you are covered by Christ's righteousness each time you sin. No need for anymore repentance. Everyone that I have met with this belief have character defects that they almost boast about. "oh that's been handed down to me from my dear grandmother/father/mother;" as if an ill temper or criticism etc. are family heirlooms to be cherished. As we forsake self Christ promises to make us new, filling us with all the fruits of His Spirit changing us into His character.  Amazing!

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--28--Levi-Matthew
Post by: Pastor Sean Brizendine on January 13, 2023, 06:49:23 AM

Amen, Brother Beacon and Sister Dorine!!

There's something for everyone!! Jesus knows what we really desire and need, and He will supply us with all we need for this life and the life to come as we come in true surrender and faith to Him! All of the fruits of the Spirit without one missing will be manifest in our lives as long as we continue to abide in Jesus in complete surrender and obey His law up to the light He has revealed to us! Praise God for the gift of salvation that we can experience and share with others by pointing them to Jesus!!

"The Prince of heaven was among His people. The greatest gift of God had been given to the world. Joy to the poor; for Christ had come to make them heirs of His kingdom. Joy to the rich; for He would teach them how to secure eternal riches. Joy to the ignorant; He would make them wise unto salvation. Joy to the learned; He would open to them deeper mysteries than they had ever fathomed; truths that had been hidden from the foundation of the world would be opened to men by the Saviour's mission." {The Desire of Ages, page 277, paragraph 1}

Jesus also continues to have more and more for us if we will but open our hearts to receive Him and walk in the path He leads us to take! Praise God!!

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--28--Levi-Matthew
Post by: Richard Myers on January 13, 2023, 06:59:11 PM

Amen, Pastor Sean. Jesus just wants the heart!  Today's reading reveals Jesus trying to reach those who do not want self to die. They do not want new bottles, nor new wine. They missed having love, joy, and peace. They were indeed Laodiceans who thought they were rich and increased with goods, but did not know they were wretched, miserable, poor, and blind, and naked, as Brother Beacon points out. Something that would be good for our people to understand is that "gold tried in the fire" which Jesus tells the Laodicean to buy, is faith that works by love. Whose love? God's love. It is knowing Him that our faith becomes real, it becomes "saving faith."

As Sister Dorine shared, it is so very sad that so many have bought into a false gospel wherein the righteousness of Christ covers unconfessed and unforsaken sin. They believe they are rich indeed, not knowing they are blind to their true spiritual condition. If only they would spend a thoughtful hour a day contemplating the life of Jesus, they would be buying of Him gold tried in the fire. The Bible tells us this: Faith cometh by hearing and hearing by the Word because the Word is a revelation of the love of God.

   As it was in the days of Christ, so it is now; the Pharisees do not know their spiritual destitution. To them comes the message, "Because thou sayest, I am rich, and increased with goods, and have need of nothing; and knowest not that thou art wretched, and miserable, and poor, and blind, and naked: I counsel thee to buy of Me gold tried in the fire, that thou mayest be rich; and white raiment, that thou mayest be clothed, and that the shame of thy nakedness do not appear." Revelation 3:17, 18. Faith and love are the gold tried in the fire. But with many the gold has become dim, and the rich treasure has been lost. The righteousness of Christ is to them as a robe unworn, a fountain untouched. To them it is said, "I have somewhat against thee, because thou hast left thy first love. Remember therefore from whence thou art fallen, and repent, and do the first works; or else I will come unto thee quickly, and will remove thy candlestick out of his place, except thou repent." Revelation 2:4, 5.
     "The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit: a broken and a contrite heart, O God, Thou wilt not despise." Psalm 51:17. Man must be emptied of self before he can be, in the fullest sense, a believer in Jesus. When self is renounced, then the Lord can make man a new creature. New bottles can contain the new wine. The love of Christ will animate the believer with new life. In him who looks unto the Author and Finisher of our faith the character of Christ will be manifest.

Have a blessed Sabbath my dear friends!

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--28--Levi-Matthew
Post by: Beacon on April 08, 2023, 08:06:24 PM

"Man must be emptied of self before he can be, in the fullest sense, a believer in Jesus. When self is renounced, then the Lord can make man a new creature."

"New bottles can contain the new wine."

"The love of Christ will animate the believer with new life."

"In him who looks unto the Author and Finisher of our faith the character of Christ will be manifest."

"The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit: a broken and a contrite heart, O God, Thou wilt not despise." Psalm 51:17."

==========================
1
Take my life, and let it be
Consecrated, Lord, to Thee;
Take my moments and my days,
Let them flow in ceaseless praise,
Let them flow in ceaseless praise.
2
Take my hands, and let them move
At the impulse of Thy love;
Take my feet and let them be
Swift and beautiful for Thee,
Swift and beautiful for Thee.
3
Take my voice, and let me sing
Always, only, for my King;
Take my lips, and let them be
Filled with messages from Thee,
Filled with messages from Thee.
4
Take my silver and my gold;
Not a mite would I withhold;
Take my intellect, and use
Every power as Thou shalt choose,
Every power as Thou shalt choose.
5
Take my will, and make it Thine;
It shall be no longer mine.
Take my heart; it is Thine own;
It shall be Thy royal throne,
It shall be Thy royal throne.
6
Take my love; my Lord, I pour
At Thy feet its treasure-store.
Take myself, and I will be
Ever, only, all for Thee,
Ever, only, all for Thee.

Lyrics:Frances Ridley Havergal (1836-1879)
Music:Henri Abraham Cesar Malan (1787-1864)

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--28--Levi-Matthew
Post by: Richard Myers on April 09, 2023, 08:53:04 AM

Amen  Brother Beacon. That's just what we want, the character of Christ.

Principle is always exacting. No man can succeed in the service of God unless his whole heart is in the work and he counts all things but loss for the excellency of the knowledge of Christ. No man who makes any reserve can be the disciple of Christ, much less can he be His colaborer. When men appreciate the great salvation, the self-sacrifice seen in Christ's life will be seen in theirs. Wherever He leads the way, they will rejoice to follow.   

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--28--Levi-Matthew
Post by: Pastor Sean Brizendine on April 09, 2023, 01:35:58 PM

Amen, Brother Beacon and Brother Richard!!

Praise God for the risen Christ who can save us from sin! His resurrection, His life and teachings, are all about helping us to experience His death to sin and His perfect life of holiness! With Jesus, the Savior Shepherd, we can overcome! Of ourselves, we are incapable of doing any good thing, but when we open our hearts to the miracle of His divine grace, Jesus makes us new and heals the disorders of our sin-sick souls so He can work in and through us His work of righteousness, which will bring true peace. He gladly fills us with all of the fruits of the Spirit without one missing and empowers us to affectionately obey God because we love Him who first loved us! Let's allow Him to send us forth to be a blessing to others each day as we receive the salvation so dearly purchased with His blood shed for us at Calvary! With His stripes we are healed, by beholding we become changed, and His intercessory ministry in heaven right now is for the purpose of preparing us to dwell in the society of holy angels! Jesus is coming again!!

"'The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit: a broken and a contrite heart, O God, Thou wilt not despise.' Psalm 51:17. Man must be emptied of self before he can be, in the fullest sense, a believer in Jesus. When self is renounced, then the Lord can make man a new creature. New bottles can contain the new wine. The love of Christ will animate the believer with new life. In him who looks unto the Author and Finisher of our faith the character of Christ will be manifest." {The Desire of Ages, page 280, paragraph 4}

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--28--Levi-Matthew
Post by: Pastor Sean Brizendine on July 05, 2023, 06:08:14 AM

To know and love God is so valuable that all other things are but loss. Let us allow the Holy Spirit to realign our values with heaven! In turning from sin, surrendering the heart fully to Jesus, and becoming a partaker of the divine nature, all of the fruits of the Spirit without one missing will be reflected in the life that stays connected to Christ! Let us choose moment-by-moment to walk in harmony with heaven's principles.

"Principle is always exacting. No man can succeed in the service of God unless his whole heart is in the work and he counts all things but loss for the excellency of the knowledge of Christ. No man who makes any reserve can be the disciple of Christ, much less can he be His colaborer. When men appreciate the great salvation, the self-sacrifice seen in Christ's life will be seen in theirs. Wherever He leads the way, they will rejoice to follow." {The Desire of Ages, page 273, paragraph 5}

Rejoicing in the Lord as we go forward in faith brings true satisfaction in the life that is surrendered to God's holy will as revealed in His word, His law, and the life of Christ!

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--28--Levi-Matthew
Post by: Philip T on July 05, 2023, 06:35:52 AM

      Amen Pastor Sean.

It was this that proved the ruin of the Jews, and it will prove the ruin of many souls in our own day. Thousands are making the same mistake as did the Pharisees whom Christ reproved at Matthew's feast. Rather than give up some cherished idea, or discard some idol of opinion, many refuse the truth which comes down from the Father of light. They trust in self, and depend upon their own wisdom, and do not realize their spiritual poverty. They insist on being saved in some way by which they may perform some important work. When they see that there is no way of weaving self into the work, they reject the salvation provided.

Total surrender to Christ is the only way to be a worker for Him, clinging to a cherished sin is not full surrender, as truth is pointed out to us we need to let go of these things so Jesus can finish the good work He began in us.

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--28--Levi-Matthew
Post by: Richard Myers on July 05, 2023, 08:45:15 AM

Amen my dear brothers!  We need to be converted daily, and it is only by allowing His love into our hearts that this can be. This is what it means to buy gold tried in the fire. The church remains in a Laodicean condition The destiny of the church hangs on this message of the True Witness.

     As it was in the days of Christ, so it is now; the Pharisees do not know their spiritual destitution. To them comes the message, "Because thou sayest, I am rich, and increased with goods, and have need of nothing; and knowest not that thou art wretched, and miserable, and poor, and blind, and naked: I counsel thee to buy of Me gold tried in the fire, that thou mayest be rich; and white raiment, that thou mayest be clothed, and that the shame of thy nakedness do not appear." Revelation 3:17, 18. Faith and love are the gold tried in the fire. But with many the gold has become dim, and the rich treasure has been lost. The righteousness of Christ is to them as a robe unworn, a fountain untouched. To them it is said, "I have somewhat against thee, because thou hast left thy first love. Remember therefore from whence thou art fallen, and repent, and do the first works; or else I will come unto thee quickly, and will remove thy candlestick out of his place, except thou repent." Revelation 2:4, 5.
     "The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit: a broken and a contrite heart, O God, Thou wilt not despise." Psalm 51:17. Man must be emptied of self before he can be, in the fullest sense, a believer in Jesus. When self is renounced, then the Lord can make man a new creature. New bottles can contain the new wine. The love of Christ will animate the believer with new life. In him who looks unto the Author and Finisher of our faith the character of Christ will be manifest.

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--28--Levi-Matthew
Post by: Beacon on July 05, 2023, 03:38:41 PM

"The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit: a broken and a contrite heart, O God, Thou wilt not despise." Psalm 51:17. "

"Man must be emptied of self before he can be, in the fullest sense, a believer in Jesus."

"When self is renounced, then the Lord can make man a new creature. New bottles can contain the new wine."

"The love of Christ will animate the believer with new life."

"In him who looks unto the Author and Finisher of our faith the character of Christ will be manifest."

Are " You  " "Am " I looking unto Jesus in the busyness or our daily blessings and needs?

=====================
1
Not I, but Christ be honored, loved, exalted,
Not I, but Christ be seen, be known and heard;
Not I, but Christ in every look and action,
Not I, but Christ in every thought and word.
    Oh, to be saved from myself, dear Lord,
  Oh, to be lost in Thee,
Oh, that it may be no more I,
    But Christ that lives in me.
2
Not I, but Christ to gently soothe in sorrow,
Not I, but Christ to wipe the falling tear;
Not I, but Christ to lift the weary burden,
Not I, but Christ to hush away all fear.
3
Christ, only Christ, no idle word e’er falling,
Christ, only Christ, no needless bustling sound;
Christ, only Christ, no self-important bearing,
Christ, only Christ, no trace of I be found.
4
Not I, but Christ my every need supplying,
Not I, but Christ my strength and health to be;
Christ, only Christ, for spirit, soul, and body,
Christ, only Christ, live then Thy life in me.
5
Christ, only Christ, ere long will fill my vision,
Glory excelling soon, full soon I’ll see;
Christ, only Christ, my every wish fulfilling,
Christ, only Christ, my all in all to be.

Lyrics:Mrs. Ada A. Whiddington (1891)
Music:Albert Benjamin Simpson (1843-1919)

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--28--Levi-Matthew
Post by: Beacon on September 29, 2023, 08:38:43 PM

"As it was in the days of Christ, so it is now; the Pharisees do not know their spiritual destitution. To them comes the message,..."

"Because thou sayest, I am rich, and increased with goods, and have need of nothing; and knowest not that thou art wretched, and miserable, and poor, and blind, and naked: I counsel thee to buy of Me gold tried in the fire, that thou mayest be rich; and white raiment, that thou mayest be clothed, and that the shame of thy nakedness do not appear." Revelation 3:17, 18"

" Faith and love are the gold tried in the fire. But with many the gold has become dim, and the rich treasure has been lost."

"The righteousness of Christ is to them as a robe unworn, a fountain untouched."

" To them it is said, "I have somewhat against thee, because thou hast left thy first love. Remember therefore from whence thou art fallen, and repent, and do the first works; or else I will come unto thee quickly, and will remove thy candlestick out of his place, except thou repent." Revelation 2:4, 5."


 "The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit: a broken and a contrite heart, O God, Thou wilt not despise." Psalm 51:17."

" Man must be emptied of self before he can be, in the fullest sense, a believer in Jesus."

 "When self is renounced, then the Lord can make man a new creature"

"New bottles can contain the new wine. The love of Christ will animate the believer with new life. In him who looks unto the Author and Finisher of our faith the character of Christ will be manifest."

I love the guarantee that Jesus provides for each one of us !  " The love of Christ will animate the believer with new life."

The Bible says..The phrase "ask and ye shall receive" is a common phrase found in the Bible.1 In Matthew 7:7-8, Jesus said, "Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you." This phrase is often used to encourage people to ask for what they desire and receive it. The phrase is also found in other Bible verses such as John 16:24, Mark 11:24, Luke 11:9, and John 15:7.

The phrase is not a blanket promise with no conditions, but rather a reminder to be patient and trust in God's provision.. Are "WE" willing to ask and believe??

 Happy Sabbath to all our On-Line Remnant family around the World and Beyond

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--28--Levi-Matthew
Post by: Pastor Sean Brizendine on September 30, 2023, 04:06:54 AM

Amen, Brother Beacon!!

Happy Sabbath! Let us allow Jesus to empty us of self so we can partake of His character--all of the fruits of the Spirit without one missing in harmony with the law of God!

"'The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit: a broken and a contrite heart, O God, Thou wilt not despise.' Psalm 51:17. Man must be emptied of self before he can be, in the fullest sense, a believer in Jesus. When self is renounced, then the Lord can make man a new creature. New bottles can contain the new wine. The love of Christ will animate the believer with new life. In him who looks unto the Author and Finisher of our faith the character of Christ will be manifest." {The Desire of Ages, page 280, paragraph 4}

Christ will safely guide each one in the path that is best! What an adventure life becomes with Jesus!

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--28--Levi-Matthew
Post by: Dorine on September 30, 2023, 05:28:55 AM

"The true fast is no mere formal service. The Scripture describes the fast that God has chosen,--"to loose the bands of wickedness, to undo the heavy burdens, and to let the oppressed go free, and that ye break every yoke;" to "draw out thy soul to the hungry, and satisfy the afflicted soul." Isaiah 58:6, 10. Here is set forth the very spirit and character of the work of Christ. His whole life was a sacrifice of Himself for the saving of the world. Whether fasting in the wilderness of temptation or eating with the publicans at Matthew's feast, He was giving His life for the redemption of the lost. Not in idle mourning, in mere bodily humiliation and multitudinous sacrifices, is the true spirit of devotion manifested, but it is shown in the surrender of self in willing service to God and man."

We are reminded again of what constitutes the true fast. It is made very plain to us. This brings such joy to our hearts when we follow in the ways of our Saviour. Anything different is pure selfishness.

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--28--Levi-Matthew
Post by: Richard Myers on September 30, 2023, 07:40:40 AM

Amen, again and again we are reminded that God wants the whole heart,  not anything less. He wants us to wear His robe or righteousness. And we read over and over it is by drinking His blood and eating His flesh that the selfish heart is broken and a new heart is given with all of the fruits of the Spirit manifest in the convert's life. We are tested that we might know who we serve, God or Satan. There is no half way, we serve one or the other. If we we we crucify Jesus afresh and support Satan's charge that God is unfair by requiring obedience to His law. He points out that even Israel could not keep His commandments. What does  Satan say about modern day Israel? Do we keep His commandments any better?

     When Jesus bade Peter and his companions follow Him, immediately they left their boats and nets. Some of these disciples had friends dependent on them for support; but when they received the Saviour's invitation, they did not hesitate, and inquire, How shall I live, and sustain my family? They were obedient to the call; and when afterward Jesus asked them, "When I sent you without purse, and scrip, and shoes, lacked ye anything?" they could answer, "Nothing." Luke 22:35.
     To Matthew in his wealth, and to Andrew and Peter in their poverty, the same test was brought; the same consecration was made by each. At the moment of success, when the nets were filled with fish, and the impulses of the old life were strongest, Jesus asked the disciples at the sea to leave all for the work of the gospel. So every soul is tested as to whether the desire for temporal good or for fellowship with Christ is strongest.
     Principle is always exacting. No man can succeed in the service of God unless his whole heart is in the work and he counts all things but loss for the excellency of the knowledge of Christ. No man who makes any reserve can be the disciple of Christ, much less can he be His colaborer. When men appreciate the great salvation, the self-sacrifice seen in Christ's life will be seen in theirs. Wherever He leads the way, they will rejoice to follow. 

We must watch and pray continually in order to glorify our God.  Let us go forth today praising God for all He has done and is doing to put an end to sin and suffering in this world. Have a blessed Sabbath dear friends!

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--28--Levi-Matthew
Post by: Beacon on December 25, 2023, 08:38:13 PM

"To Matthew in his wealth, and to Andrew and Peter in their poverty, the same test was brought."

"The same consecration was made by each."

"At the moment of success, when the nets were filled with fish, and the impulses of the old life were strongest, Jesus asked the disciples at the sea to leave all for the work of the gospel."

 "So every soul is tested as to whether the desire for temporal good or for fellowship with Christ is strongest."

" Principle is always exacting."

"No man can succeed in the service of God unless his whole heart is in the work and he counts all things but loss for the excellency of the knowledge of Christ."
 
No man who makes any reserve can be the disciple of Christ, much less can he be His colaborer."

"When men appreciate the great salvation, the self-sacrifice seen in Christ's life will be seen in theirs."[/color

"Wherever He leads the way, they will rejoice to follow."

Are "WE" willing to say and to sing, "All to Jesus I surrender?" Are "WE"  willing to acknowledge that "Without Him We can Do Nothing"??

=========================
1
All to Jesus I surrender,
All to Him I freely give;
I will ever love and trust Him,
In His presence daily live.
    I surrender all,
  I surrender all.
All to Thee, my blessed Savior,
    I surrender all.
2
All to Jesus I surrender,
Humbly at His feet I bow,
Worldly pleasures all forsaken;
Take me, Jesus, take me now.
3
All to Jesus I surrender,
Make me, Savior, wholly Thine;
Let me feel Thy Holy Spirit,
Truly know that Thou art mine.
4
All to Jesus I surrender,
Lord, I give myself to Thee;
Fill me with Thy love and power,
Let Thy blessing fall on me.
5
All to Jesus I surrender,
Now I feel the sacred flame.
Oh, the joy of full salvation!
Glory, glory to His name!

Lyrics:Judson W. Van de Venter (1855-1939)
Music:Winfield Scott Weeden (1847-1908

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--28--Levi-Matthew
Post by: Pastor Sean Brizendine on December 26, 2023, 03:53:27 AM

Amen, Brother Beacon!!

What is your desire? What are you longing for? In what do you find your highest satisfaction? If we behold the loveliness of Jesus and surrender fully to Him, our converted hearts will have the infilling of the Holy Spirit without one of the fruits of the Spirit missing. Such a "new heart" (Ezekiel 36:26) is enabled, through continual union and communion with Christ, to resist the temptations of the fallen nature, also described in the Bible as the heart that is "deceitful above all things, and desperately wicked" (Jeremiah 17:9). That old heart needs daily to be crucified with Christ and replaced with the new heart that is enabled to obey God up to the light He has revealed because we love Him who first loved us.

But if one has listened to and become accustomed to false teaching, Satan seeks to make truth undesirable and unwelcome, so the soul will cling to false theories and opinions that are really mental idols, keeping one from truly desiring and living in the truth as it is in Jesus. May we realize the need we have to see Jesus as He is in truth and let the heart experience the wooing of God's love to truly satisfy us! Upon true conversion in complete acquiescence to Christ of all we are in soul, body and spirit to God, there is no limit the usefulness of such a life transformed by divine grace!

"Jesus pointed out the power of false teaching to destroy the appreciation and desire for truth. 'No man,' He said, 'having drunk old wine straightway desireth new: for he saith, The old is better.' All the truth that has been given to the world through patriarchs and prophets shone out in new beauty in the words of Christ. But the scribes and Pharisees had no desire for the precious new wine. Until emptied of the old traditions, customs, and practices, they had no place in mind or heart for the teachings of Christ. They clung to the dead forms, and turned away from the living truth and the power of God." {The Desire of Ages, page 279, paragraph 3}

The truth as it is in Jesus is sanctifying in its power, for by His love, love is awakened in the soul. We can go forth to bless others rather than focus on self and the false theories that would make the seed of His word unfruitful. Let us keep pressing on the upward way with Jesus!

"Whereby are given unto us exceeding great and precious promises: that by these ye might be partakers of the divine nature, having escaped the corruption that is in the world through lust. And beside this, giving all diligence, add to your faith virtue; and to virtue knowledge; and to knowledge temperance; and to temperance patience; and to patience godliness; and to godliness brotherly kindness; and to brotherly kindness charity. For if these things be in you, and abound, they make you that ye shall neither be barren nor unfruitful in the knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ" (2 Peter 1:4-8).

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--28--Levi-Matthew
Post by: Philip T on December 26, 2023, 10:18:14 AM

Matthew "left all, rose up, and followed Him." There was no hesitation, no questioning, no thought of the lucrative business to be exchanged for poverty and hardship. It was enough for him that he was to be with Jesus, that he might listen to His words, and unite with Him in His work.
     So it was with the disciples previously called. When Jesus bade Peter and his companions follow Him, immediately they left their boats and nets. Some of these disciples had friends dependent on them for support; but when they received the Saviour's invitation, they did not hesitate, and inquire, How shall I live, and sustain my family? They were obedient to the call; and when afterward Jesus asked them, "When I sent you without purse, and scrip, and shoes, lacked ye anything?" they could answer, "Nothing." Luke 22:35.
     To Matthew in his wealth, and to Andrew and Peter in their poverty, the same test was brought; the same consecration was made by each. At the moment of success, when the nets were filled with fish, and the impulses of the old life were strongest, Jesus asked the disciples at the sea to leave all for the work of the gospel. So every soul is tested as to whether the desire for temporal good or for fellowship with Christ is strongest.

These words point out that at the point of their most success in this world and by this world's standards, Jesus called them to follow Him and let go of the pleasures of this world, surrendering them all to Him, and they dropped them without hesitation, an example for us today, are we willing to drop all and follow after Jesus, surrendering all to Him with glad and contrite hearts? We must have a close walk with our savior, it is the only way to heaven. As pastor Sena said "We need to surrender daily." When God calls we must like Isiah say "Here am I send me."

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--28--Levi-Matthew
Post by: Richard Myers on December 26, 2023, 11:16:59 PM

Amen my dear brothers!

 As it was in the days of Christ, so it is now; the Pharisees do not know their spiritual destitution. To them comes the message, "Because thou sayest, I am rich, and increased with goods, and have need of nothing; and knowest not that thou art wretched, and miserable, and poor, and blind, and naked: I counsel thee to buy of Me gold tried in the fire, that thou mayest be rich; and white raiment, that thou mayest be clothed, and that the shame of thy nakedness do not appear." Revelation 3:17, 18. Faith and love are the gold tried in the fire. But with many the gold has become dim, and the rich treasure has been lost. The righteousness of Christ is to them as a robe unworn, a fountain untouched. To them it is said, "I have somewhat against thee, because thou hast left thy first love. Remember therefore from whence thou art fallen, and repent, and do the first works; or else I will come unto thee quickly, and will remove thy candlestick out of his place, except thou repent." Revelation 2:4, 5.  

The Laodicean condition applies to the church today. In Rev. chapter three we find the answer to this lost condition. Buy gold tried in the fire which is faith that works by love, God's love. As we behold His glory which is His character we shall be transformed from sinner to saint (2 Cor. 3:18). It is His promise!! We must surrender the whole heart, not 99% of it. We cannot trust someone we do not know. By spending time with Jesus every day we will become a partaker of God's divine nature, filled with the Holy Spirit and all of the fruits of His Spirit, not one will be missing.

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--28--Levi-Matthew
Post by: Beacon on March 20, 2024, 08:07:22 PM

"Matthew "left all, rose up, and followed Him." There was no hesitation, no questioning, no thought of the lucrative business to be exchanged for poverty and hardship. It was enough for him that he was to be with Jesus, that he might listen to His words, and unite with Him in His work."

" When Jesus bade Peter and his companions follow Him, immediately they left their boats and nets. Some of these disciples had friends dependent on them for support; but when they received the Saviour's invitation, they did not hesitate, and inquire, How shall I live, and sustain my family? They were obedient to the call; and when afterward Jesus asked them, "When I sent you without purse, and scrip, and shoes, lacked ye anything?" they could answer, "Nothing." Luke 22:35."

"To Matthew in his wealth, and to Andrew and Peter in their poverty, the same test was brought; the same consecration was made by each. At the moment of success, when the nets were filled with fish, and the impulses of the old life were strongest, Jesus asked the disciples at the sea to leave all for the work of the gospel" "

So every soul is tested as to whether the desire for temporal good or for fellowship with Christ is strongest.

What will "OUR" response be to the One who went to Calvary to set us free from sin and to be able to offer each of us an Eternal Life with Him where there will be no more Sadness, Sickness ,Sorrow or Death.
==========================
1
Take my life, and let it be
Consecrated, Lord, to Thee;
Take my moments and my days,
Let them flow in ceaseless praise.
    For me, You were mocked and crucified;
For me, willingly You bled and died.
Lord, my life and love I willingly outpour
And will serve You evermore.
2
Take my hands, and let them move
At the impulse of Thy love;
Take my feet and let them be
Swift and beautiful for Thee.
3
Take my voice, and let me sing
Always, only, for my King;
Take my lips, and let them be
Filled with messages from Thee.
4
Take my silver and my gold;
Not a mite would I withhold;
Take my intellect, and use
Every power as Thou shalt choose.
5
Take my will, and make it Thine;
It shall be no longer mine.
Take my heart; it is Thine own;
It shall be Thy royal throne.
6
Take my love; my Lord, I pour
At Thy feet its treasure-store.
Take myself, and I will be
Ever, only, all for Thee.

Lyrics:Frances Ridley Havergal (1836-1879 )
Music: H.A. Cesar Malan ( 1787-1864 )

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--28--Levi-Matthew
Post by: Richard Myers on March 21, 2024, 06:15:45 AM

Amen Brother Beacon! God wants the whole heart.

      As it was in the days of Christ, so it is now; the Pharisees do not know their spiritual destitution. To them comes the message, "Because thou sayest, I am rich, and increased with goods, and have need of nothing; and knowest not that thou art wretched, and miserable, and poor, and blind, and naked: I counsel thee to buy of Me gold tried in the fire, that thou mayest be rich; and white raiment, that thou mayest be clothed, and that the shame of thy nakedness do not appear." Revelation 3:17, 18. Faith and love are the gold tried in the fire. But with many the gold has become dim, and the rich treasure has been lost. The righteousness of Christ is to them as a robe unworn, a fountain untouched. To them it is said, "I have somewhat against thee, because thou hast left thy first love. Remember therefore from whence thou art fallen, and repent, and do the first works; or else I will come unto thee quickly, and will remove thy candlestick out of his place, except thou repent." Revelation 2:4, 5.
     "The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit: a broken and a contrite heart, O God, Thou wilt not despise." Psalm 51:17. Man must be emptied of self before he can be, in the fullest sense, a believer in Jesus. When self is renounced, then the Lord can make man a new creature. New bottles can contain the new wine. The love of Christ will animate the believer with new life. In him who looks unto the Author and Finisher of our faith the character of Christ will be manifest.

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--28--Levi-Matthew
Post by: Pastor Sean Brizendine on March 21, 2024, 07:28:44 AM

Amen, Brother Beacon and Brother Richard!

What is the value of money? Well, as long as it can get goods, it has some value. But often it seems like the love of money rules the hearts of so many people. The Bible is clear: "For the love of money is the root of all evil: which while some coveted after, they have erred from the faith, and pierced themselves through with many sorrows" (1 Timothy 6:10). But we see in the case of Matthew that he found something worth more than all the gold and silver the world could contain--and that was Jesus, the Maker of everything! And Jesus was PERSONALLY calling him to follow Him! He did not love money more than Jesus. He chose to surrender the WHOLE heart to Him, and that gave Matthew the freedom to go wherever Jesus called him to go!

"Matthew 'left all, rose up, and followed Him.' There was no hesitation, no questioning, no thought of the lucrative business to be exchanged for poverty and hardship. It was enough for him that he was to be with Jesus, that he might listen to His words, and unite with Him in His work." {The Desire of Ages, page 273, paragraph 2}

What a privilege it is to rise up and follow Jesus! Jesus would provide for his needs, but the focus in his life shifted from his own business to a more eternally profitable business--beholding Christ, being transformed into His image, and saving souls whose lives would span eternity through the power of redeeming love!

"The love of Christ will animate the believer with new life. In him who looks unto the Author and Finisher of our faith the character of Christ will be manifest." {The Desire of Ages, page 280, paragraph 4}

The character of Christ in us is all of the fruits of the Spirit without one missing as we are obedient to all the light God sheds on our life path. Let us walk in the light as Jesus is the light, calling us to let His character shine forth through us through a continual union and communion of our souls with Him as Lord and Savior!

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--28--Levi-Matthew
Post by: Beacon on June 15, 2024, 08:41:17 PM

"Matthew "left all, rose up, and followed Him." There was no hesitation, no questioning, no thought of the lucrative business to be exchanged for poverty and hardship. It was enough for him that he was to be with Jesus, that he might listen to His words, and unite with Him in His work."

" When Jesus bade Peter and his companions follow Him, immediately they left their boats and nets. Some of these disciples had friends dependent on them for support; but when they received the Saviour's invitation, they did not hesitate, and inquire, How shall I live, and sustain my family? They were obedient to the call; and when afterward Jesus asked them, "When I sent you without purse, and scrip, and shoes, lacked ye anything?" they could answer, "Nothing." Luke 22:35."

"To Matthew in his wealth, and to Andrew and Peter in their poverty, the same test was brought; the same consecration was made by each. At the moment of success, when the nets were filled with fish, and the impulses of the old life were strongest, Jesus asked the disciples at the sea to leave all for the work of the gospel"

So every soul is tested as to whether the desire for temporal good or for fellowship with Christ is strongest.

What will "OUR" response be to the One who went to Calvary to set us free from sin and to be able to offer each of us an Eternal Life with Him where there will be no more Sadness, Sickness ,Sorrow or Death.
==========================
1
Take my life, and let it be
Consecrated, Lord, to Thee;
Take my moments and my days,
Let them flow in ceaseless praise.
    For me, You were mocked and crucified;
For me, willingly You bled and died.
Lord, my life and love I willingly outpour
And will serve You evermore.
2
Take my hands, and let them move
At the impulse of Thy love;
Take my feet and let them be
Swift and beautiful for Thee.
3
Take my voice, and let me sing
Always, only, for my King;
Take my lips, and let them be
Filled with messages from Thee.
4
Take my silver and my gold;
Not a mite would I withhold;
Take my intellect, and use
Every power as Thou shalt choose.
5
Take my will, and make it Thine;
It shall be no longer mine.
Take my heart; it is Thine own;
It shall be Thy royal throne.
6
Take my love; my Lord, I pour
At Thy feet its treasure-store.
Take myself, and I will be
Ever, only, all for Thee.

Lyrics:Frances Ridley Havergal (1836-1879 )
Music: H.A. Cesar Malan ( 1787-1864 )

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--28--Levi-Matthew
Post by: Pastor Sean Brizendine on June 16, 2024, 04:52:50 AM

Amen, Brother Beacon!

Praise the Lord for the gift of salvation in transformation of character into the image of Christ!

“The true fast is no mere formal service. The Scripture describes the fast that God has chosen,—‘to loose the bands of wickedness, to undo the heavy burdens, and to let the oppressed go free, and that ye break every yoke;’ to ‘draw out thy soul to the hungry, and satisfy the afflicted soul.’ Isaiah 58:6, 10. Here is set forth the very spirit and character of the work of Christ. His whole life was a sacrifice of Himself for the saving of the world. Whether fasting in the wilderness of temptation or eating with the publicans at Matthew’s feast, He was giving His life for the redemption of the lost. Not in idle mourning, in mere bodily humiliation and multitudinous sacrifices, is the true spirit of devotion manifested, but it is shown in the surrender of self in willing service to God and man.” {The Desire of Ages, page 278, paragraph 2}

By surrendering self so we can cheerfully serve God and others, we experience true happiness in obedience with the accompanying witness of all of the fruits of the Spirit in the life without one missing!

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--28--Levi-Matthew
Post by: Dorine on June 16, 2024, 05:54:30 AM

"The teaching of Christ, though it was represented by the new wine, was not a new doctrine, but the revelation of that which had been taught from the beginning. But to the Pharisees the truth of God had lost its original significance and beauty. To them Christ's teaching was new in almost every respect, and it was unrecognized and unacknowledged."

[/size]God never changes. When someone comes with new light that the bible does not teach we can know that it is not from God. I am amazed with how God reveals deeper truths with each reading of this book. They seem new because the Holy Spirit magnifies our understanding to be able to appreciate things not seen before.[/color]

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--28--Levi-Matthew
Post by: Beacon on September 10, 2024, 08:09:59 PM

" When Jesus bade Peter and his companions follow Him, immediately they left their boats and nets."

"Some of these disciples had friends dependent on them for support; but when they received the Saviour's invitation, they did not hesitate, and inquire, How shall I live, and sustain my family?"

"They were obedient to the call; and when afterward Jesus asked them, "When I sent you without purse, and scrip, and shoes, lacked ye anything?" they could answer, "Nothing." Luke 22:35."

"To Matthew in his wealth, and to Andrew and Peter in their poverty, the same test was brought; the same consecration was made by each."

"At the moment of success, when the nets were filled with fish, and the impulses of the old life were strongest, Jesus asked the disciples at the sea to leave all for the work of the gospel"

"So every soul is tested as to whether the desire for temporal good or for fellowship with Christ is strongest."

What will "OUR" response be to the One who went to Calvary to set us free from sin and to be able to offer each of us an Eternal Life with Him where there will be no more Sadness, Sickness ,Sorrow or Death.
==========================
1
Take my life, and let it be
Consecrated, Lord, to Thee;
Take my moments and my days,
Let them flow in ceaseless praise.
    For me, You were mocked and crucified;
For me, willingly You bled and died.
Lord, my life and love I willingly outpour
And will serve You evermore.
2
Take my hands, and let them move
At the impulse of Thy love;
Take my feet and let them be
Swift and beautiful for Thee.
3
Take my voice, and let me sing
Always, only, for my King;
Take my lips, and let them be
Filled with messages from Thee.
4
Take my silver and my gold;
Not a mite would I withhold;
Take my intellect, and use
Every power as Thou shalt choose.
5
Take my will, and make it Thine;
It shall be no longer mine.
Take my heart; it is Thine own;
It shall be Thy royal throne.
6
Take my love; my Lord, I pour
At Thy feet its treasure-store.
Take myself, and I will be
Ever, only, all for Thee.

Lyrics:Frances Ridley Havergal (1836-1879 )
Music: H.A. Cesar Malan ( 1787-1864 )

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--28--Levi-Matthew
Post by: Pastor Sean Brizendine on September 11, 2024, 06:13:38 AM

Amen, Brother Beacon!

What principle actuates you? When Christ has the whole heart as you surrender fully to Him, the way He lived will become your experience, and the power of the Holy Spirit will be manifest in all of the fruits of the Spirit without one missing in your life as you boldly go in the path He chooses for you!

"Principle is always exacting. No man can succeed in the service of God unless his whole heart is in the work and he counts all things but loss for the excellency of the knowledge of Christ. No man who makes any reserve can be the disciple of Christ, much less can he be His colaborer. When men appreciate the great salvation, the self-sacrifice seen in Christ's life will be seen in theirs. Wherever He leads the way, they will rejoice to follow." {The Desire of Ages, page 273, paragraph 5}

Go forth in faith, fearing nothing as you remember how God has led in the past, trusting His unfolding providences for the furthering of His kingdom!

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--28--Levi-Matthew
Post by: Richard Myers on September 11, 2024, 08:49:25 AM

Amen my dear brothers!  As Jesus said to Nicodemus, we must be born again, filled with the Spirit.

      As it was in the days of Christ, so it is now; the Pharisees do not know their spiritual destitution. To them comes the message, "Because thou sayest, I am rich, and increased with goods, and have need of nothing; and knowest not that thou art wretched, and miserable, and poor, and blind, and naked: I counsel thee to buy of Me gold tried in the fire, that thou mayest be rich; and white raiment, that thou mayest be clothed, and that the shame of thy nakedness do not appear." Revelation 3:17, 18. Faith and love are the gold tried in the fire. But with many the gold has become dim, and the rich treasure has been lost. The righteousness of Christ is to them as a robe unworn, a fountain untouched. To them it is said, "I have somewhat against thee, because thou hast left thy first love. Remember therefore from whence thou art fallen, and repent, and do the first works; or else I will come unto thee quickly, and will remove thy candlestick out of his place, except thou repent." Revelation 2:4, 5.
     "The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit: a broken and a contrite heart, O God, Thou wilt not despise." Psalm 51:17. Man must be emptied of self before he can be, in the fullest sense, a believer in Jesus. When self is renounced, then the Lord can make man a new creature. New bottles can contain the new wine. The love of Christ will animate the believer with new life. In him who looks unto the Author and Finisher of our faith the character of Christ will be manifest.

As it was then, so it is now.  God is speaking of His church. The destiny of His church hangs on the message to the Laodicean Church. It was rare in the days of Ellen White to find one who was truly born again. And so it is today. Many believe they are rich and increased with goods, but know not they are miserable, wretched, poor, blind, and naked. Jesus says "repent" because He loves us.

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--28--Levi-Matthew
Post by: Philip T on September 11, 2024, 09:00:56 AM

  Matthew "left all, rose up, and followed Him." There was no hesitation, no questioning, no thought of the lucrative business to be exchanged for poverty and hardship. It was enough for him that he was to be with Jesus, that he might listen to His words, and unite with Him in His work.
     So it was with the disciples previously called. When Jesus bade Peter and his companions follow Him, immediately they left their boats and nets. Some of these disciples had friends dependent on them for support; but when they received the Saviour's invitation, they did not hesitate, and inquire, How shall I live, and sustain my family? They were obedient to the call; and when afterward Jesus asked them, "When I sent you without purse, and scrip, and shoes, lacked ye anything?" they could answer, "Nothing." Luke 22:35.

Mathew left all and followed Christ, all that was important to Him was being with Jesus, sitting at his feet as did Mary, listening to and doing whatever Jesus asked him to do. It was the same with Peter and the other fisherman when called by Jesus to follow Him. The surrendered all as well. Am I? Are we ready to do the same, I pray we are willing to totally surrender to Jesus, it is the only way to find salvation.
 

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--28--Levi-Matthew
Post by: Dorine on September 12, 2024, 03:38:22 AM

The Prince of heaven was among His people. The greatest gift of God had been given to the world. Joy to the poor; for Christ had come to make them heirs of His kingdom. Joy to the rich; for He would teach them how to secure eternal riches. Joy to the ignorant; He would make them wise unto salvation. Joy to the learned; He would open to them deeper mysteries than they had ever fathomed; truths that had been hidden from the foundation of the world would be opened to men by the Saviour's mission.

Why would so many turn away the opportunity to receive the complete joy Jesus offered to all? It shows the deadly power of pride and selfishness. It takes a moment by moment abiding in Christ, communing with Him as we go about our daily routines and tasks to appreciate what Jesus offers to those that accept Him. Nothing compares to the peace and joy that the believer in Christ experiences.

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--28--Levi-Matthew
Post by: Beacon on December 06, 2024, 08:14:07 PM

"Jesus said "I have somewhat against thee, because thou hast left thy first love. Remember therefore from whence thou art fallen, and repent, and do the first works; or else I will come unto thee quickly, and will remove thy candlestick out of his place, except thou repent." Revelation 2:4, 5."

"The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit: a broken and a contrite heart, O God, Thou wilt not despise." Psalm 51:17." "

"Man must be emptied of self before he can be, in the fullest sense, a believer in Jesus."

"When self is renounced, then the Lord can make man a new creature."

"New bottles can contain the new wine." 

"The love of Christ will animate the believer with new life."

In him who the Author and Finisher of our faith the character of Christ will be manifest

What a wonderful promise!!

Hopefully this is the goal for "ALL" of God's Remnant Church

==========================
1
Amazing grace! how sweet the sound,
  That saved a wretch; like me!
I once was lost, but now am found,
  Was blind, but now I see.
2
’Twas grace that taught my heart to fear,
  And grace my fears relieved;
How precious did that grace appear
  The hour I first believed!
3
The Lord hath promised good to me,
  His word my hope secures;
He will my shield and portion be
  As long as life endures.
4
When we’ve been there ten thousand years,
  Bright shining as the sun,
We’ve no less days to sing God’s praise
  Than when we first begun.

Lyrics:John Newton (1725-1807)
Music:Traditional American melody

Happy Sabbath to "ALL" God's Children on Earth and Across the vast universe

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--28--Levi-Matthew
Post by: Richard Myers on December 07, 2024, 04:14:15 AM

Amen dear Brother Beacon!!  Self must die, and it must be daily. We must drink from the Living Water every day!

     To Matthew in his wealth, and to Andrew and Peter in their poverty, the same test was brought; the same consecration was made by each. At the moment of success, when the nets were filled with fish, and the impulses of the old life were strongest, Jesus asked the disciples at the sea to leave all for the work of the gospel. So every soul is tested as to whether the desire for temporal good or for fellowship with Christ is strongest.
     Principle is always exacting. No man can succeed in the service of God unless his whole heart is in the work and he counts all things but loss for the excellency of the knowledge of Christ. No man who makes any reserve can be the disciple of Christ, much less can he be His colaborer. When men appreciate the great salvation, the self-sacrifice seen in Christ's life will be seen in theirs. Wherever He leads the way, they will rejoice to follow. 

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--28--Levi-Matthew
Post by: Dorine on December 07, 2024, 04:26:08 AM

The Pharisees thought themselves too wise to need instruction, too righteous to need salvation, too highly honored to need the honor that comes from Christ. The Saviour turned away from them to find others who would receive the message of heaven. In the untutored fishermen, in the publican at the market place, in the woman of Samaria, in the common people who heard Him gladly, He found His new bottles for the new wine. The instrumentalities to be used in the gospel work are those souls who gladly receive the light which God sends them. These are His agencies for imparting the knowledge of truth to the world. If through the grace of Christ His people will become new bottles, He will fill them with new wine.

A stern rebuke to those who appear pious but whose hearts are hard and cold and self-righteous.  It is deceptive leading many to look to them for their understanding of scripture and their hope of salvation. Never put man on a pedestal. He is finite and not beyond error. Everything must be tested by God's word. May we all be of a humble spirit and look to Jesus the only one Who provides salvation to those who accept Him.

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--28--Levi-Matthew
Post by: Beacon on March 03, 2025, 08:01:33 PM

" The greatest gift of God had been given to the world."

"Joy to the poor; for Christ had come to make them heirs of His kingdom."

"Joy to the rich; for He would teach them how to secure eternal riches."

"Joy to the ignorant; He would make them wise unto salvation."

"Joy to the learned; He would open to them deeper mysteries than they had ever fathomed; truths that had been hidden from the foundation of the world would be opened to men by the Saviour's mission."

Yes!! Jesus wants as many as receive Him to be Full of Joy and He paid the price to that all may come to the foot of the cross and have JOY. What will your response be??

========================

1
Jesus, keep me near the cross,
  There a precious fountain,
Free to all—a healing stream,
  Flows from Calv’ry’s mountain.
 
In the cross, in the cross,
  Be my glory ever;
From the cross my ransomed soul
    Nothing then shall sever.
2
Near the cross, a trembling soul,
  Love and mercy found me;
There the Bright and Morning Star
  Sheds its beams around me.
3
Near the cross! O Lamb of God,
  Bring its scenes before me;
Help me walk from day to day,
  With its shadow o’er me.
4
Near the cross I’ll watch and wait,
  Hoping, trusting ever,
Till I see my Savior’s face,
  Leave His presence never.

Lyrics:Fanny Jane Crosby (1820-1915)
Music:William Howard Doane (1832-1915)

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--28--Levi-Matthew
Post by: JimB on March 04, 2025, 04:35:58 AM

Jesus sat as an honored guest at the table of the publicans, by His sympathy and social kindliness showing that He recognized the dignity of humanity; and men longed to become worthy of His confidence. Upon their thirsty hearts His words fell with blessed, life-giving power. New impulses were awakened, and the possibility of a new life opened to these outcasts of society.

What a Savior we have! and once you start to get to know Him we desire to be worthy of His confidence, we desire a new and better life which He freely bestows.

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--28--Levi-Matthew
Post by: Dorine on March 04, 2025, 04:55:28 AM

Jesus pointed out the power of false teaching to destroy the appreciation and desire for truth. "No man," He said, "having drunk old wine straightway desireth new: for he saith, The old is better." All the truth that has been given to the world through patriarchs and prophets shone out in new beauty in the words of Christ. But the scribes and Pharisees had no desire for the precious new wine. Until emptied of the old traditions, customs, and practices, they had no place in mind or heart for the teachings of Christ. They clung to the dead forms, and turned away from the living truth and the power of God.    

It was this that proved the ruin of the Jews, and it will prove the ruin of many souls in our own day. Thousands are making the same mistake as did the Pharisees whom Christ reproved at Matthew's feast. Rather than give up some cherished idea, or discard some idol of opinion, many refuse the truth which comes down from the Father of light. They trust in self, and depend upon their own wisdom, and do not realize their spiritual poverty. They insist on being saved in some way by which they may perform some important work. When they see that there is no way of weaving self into the work, they reject the salvation provided.

As we digest the content of these words we are brought into a living relationship with Jesus. Preconceived ideas must be laid aside and our hearts and minds must be opened to the truth that God's word presents. Error and self sufficiency is pressing in from all sides and getting closer to home. "It is written" through the work of the Holy Spirit is our only protection as we humbly and bravely work for the salvation of lost souls. Inside the church and out.

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--28--Levi-Matthew
Post by: Richard Myers on March 04, 2025, 09:16:04 AM

Amen, amen, and amen! God surely loves us!

 "The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit: a broken and a contrite heart, O God, Thou wilt not despise." Psalm 51:17. Man must be emptied of self before he can be, in the fullest sense, a believer in Jesus. When self is renounced, then the Lord can make man a new creature. New bottles can contain the new wine. The love of Christ will animate the believer with new life. In him who looks unto the Author and Finisher of our faith the character of Christ will be manifest.

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--28--Levi-Matthew
Post by: Beacon on May 27, 2025, 08:06:24 PM

"History is repeating. With the open Bible before them, and professing to reverence its teachings, many of the religious leaders of our time are destroying faith in it as the word of God."

"They busy themselves with dissecting the word, and set their own opinions above its plainest statements. In their hands God's word loses its regenerating power. This is why infidelity runs riot, and iniquity is rife."

"Then Satan has undermined faith in the Bible, he directs men to other sources for light and power." "Thus he insinuates himself."


 "Those who turn from the plain teaching of Scripture and the convicting power of God's Holy Spirit are inviting the control of demons. Criticism and speculation concerning the Scriptures have opened the way for spiritism and theosophy--those modernized forms of ancient heathenism--to gain a foothold even in the professed churches of our Lord Jesus Christ."

"Yes!! He does indeed direct men to other sources of for light and power. Why do so many instead of studying the Word, turn to man who have perverted the Word? Satan rejoices when we turn to others to tell us what the Bible says instead of asking the Holy Spirit to reveal to us what the Bible says." "Quit going to man, go to God. Always ask for the Holy Spirit and He will give you love, joy, and peace as the truth is opened unto you. It would ve very good to spend a thoughtful hour a day contemplating the life of Jesus. You will be transformed into the image of God (2 Cor. 3:13)."
=======================

1
Beneath the cross of Jesus
  I fain would take my stand,
The shadow of a mighty Rock
  Within a weary land;
A home within the wilderness,
  A rest upon the way,
From the burning of the noontide heat,
  And the burden of the day.
2
Oh, safe and happy shelter!
  Oh, refuge tried and sweet!
Oh, trysting place where heaven’s love
  And heaven’s justice meet.
As to the holy patriarch
  That wondrous dream was given,
So is my Savior by the cross
  A ladder up to heaven.
3
There lies beneath its shadow,
  But on the farther side,
The darkness of an awful grave
  That gapes both deep and wide;
And there between us stands the cross,
  Two arms outstretched to save,
Like a watchman set to guard the way
  From that eternal grave.
4
Upon that cross of Jesus
  Mine eye at times can see
The very dying form of One,
  Who suffered there for me;
And from my smitten heart, with tears,
  Two wonders I confess,
The wonders of His glorious love,
  And my own worthlessness.
5
I take, O cross, thy shadow
  For my abiding place;
I ask no other sunshine than
  The sunshine of His face;
Content to let the world go by,
  To know no gain nor loss,
My sinful self my only shame,
  My glory all the cross.

Lyrics:Elizabeth Cecilia Clephane (1830-1869)
Music:Frederick Charles Maker (1844-1927)

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--28--Levi-Matthew
Post by: Richard Myers on May 30, 2025, 07:00:46 AM

Amen Brother Beacon! It would be a great blessing to spend a thoughtful hour a day contemplating the life of Jesus!! By beholding His glory we will reflect His character.

    Matthew "left all, rose up, and followed Him." There was no hesitation, no questioning, no thought of the lucrative business to be exchanged for poverty and hardship. It was enough for him that he was to be with Jesus, that he might listen to His words, and unite with Him in His work.
     So it was with the disciples previously called. When Jesus bade Peter and his companions follow Him, immediately they left their boats and nets. Some of these disciples had friends dependent on them for support; but when they received the Saviour's invitation, they did not hesitate, and inquire, How shall I live, and sustain my family? They were obedient to the call; and when afterward Jesus asked them, "When I sent you without purse, and scrip, and shoes, lacked ye anything?" they could answer, "Nothing." Luke 22:35.
     To Matthew in his wealth, and to Andrew and Peter in their poverty, the same test was brought; the same consecration was made by each. At the moment of success, when the nets were filled with fish, and the impulses of the old life were strongest, Jesus asked the disciples at the sea to leave all for the work of the gospel. So every soul is tested as to whether the desire for temporal good or for fellowship with Christ is strongest.
     Principle is always exacting. No man can succeed in the service of God unless his whole heart is in the work and he counts all things but loss for the excellency of the knowledge of Christ. No man who makes any reserve can be the disciple of Christ, much less can he be His colaborer. When men appreciate the great salvation, the self-sacrifice seen in Christ's life will be seen in theirs. Wherever He leads the way, they will rejoice to follow. 

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--28--Levi-Matthew
Post by: Beacon on May 30, 2025, 05:04:12 PM

"Jesus asked the disciples at the sea to leave all for the work of the gospel. So every soul is tested as to whether the desire for temporal good or for fellowship with Christ is strongest."

"Principle is always exacting. No man can succeed in the service of God unless his whole heart is in the work and he counts all things but loss for the excellency of the knowledge of Christ." "No man who makes any reserve can be the disciple of Christ, much less can he be His colaborer."

"When men appreciate the great salvation, the self-sacrifice seen in Christ's life will be seen in theirs. Wherever He leads the way, they will rejoice to follow.

Is it showing up in Our lives??

====================


1
Take my life, and let it be
Consecrated, Lord, to Thee;
Take my moments and my days,
Let them flow in ceaseless praise,
Let them flow in ceaseless praise.
2
Take my hands, and let them move
At the impulse of Thy love;
Take my feet and let them be
Swift and beautiful for Thee,
Swift and beautiful for Thee.
3
Take my voice, and let me sing
Always, only, for my King;
Take my lips, and let them be
Filled with messages from Thee,
Filled with messages from Thee.
4
Take my silver and my gold;
Not a mite would I withhold;
Take my intellect, and use
Every power as Thou shalt choose,
Every power as Thou shalt choose.
5
Take my will, and make it Thine;
It shall be no longer mine.
Take my heart; it is Thine own;
It shall be Thy royal throne,
It shall be Thy royal throne.
6
Take my love; my Lord, I pour
At Thy feet its treasure-store.
Take myself, and I will be
Ever, only, all for Thee,
Ever, only, all for Thee.


Lyrics:Frances Ridley Havergal (1836-1879)
Music:Henri Abraham Cesar Malan (1787-1864)

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--28--Levi-Matthew
Post by: Richard Myers on August 23, 2025, 05:51:34 AM

Amen my dear Brother Beacon!  God wants the whole heart and nothing less.  Today's reading was pointing more and more to the Laodicean Church, the seventh and last church. And sure enough, our reading closed with the message to our church.

        As it was in the days of Christ, so it is now; the Pharisees do not know their spiritual destitution. To them comes the message, "Because thou sayest, I am rich, and increased with goods, and have need of nothing; and knowest not that thou art wretched, and miserable, and poor, and blind, and naked: I counsel thee to buy of Me gold tried in the fire, that thou mayest be rich; and white raiment, that thou mayest be clothed, and that the shame of thy nakedness do not appear." Revelation 3:17, 18. Faith and love are the gold tried in the fire. But with many the gold has become dim, and the rich treasure has been lost. The righteousness of Christ is to them as a robe unworn, a fountain untouched. To them it is said, "I have somewhat against thee, because thou hast left thy first love. Remember therefore from whence thou art fallen, and repent, and do the first works; or else I will come unto thee quickly, and will remove thy candlestick out of his place, except thou repent." Revelation 2:4, 5.
     "The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit: a broken and a contrite heart, O God, Thou wilt not despise." Psalm 51:17. Man must be emptied of self before he can be, in the fullest sense, a believer in Jesus. When self is renounced, then the Lord can make man a new creature. New bottles can contain the new wine. The love of Christ will animate the believer with new life. In him who looks unto the Author and Finisher of our faith the character of Christ will be manifest.

As you pointed out dear brother, all must choose between Jesus and the world.