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The King of Kings => The Desire of Ages => Topic started by: R Myers on June 28, 2001, 06:43:00 AM

Title: The Desire of Ages--Final Chapter--"To My Father, and Your Father"
Post by: R Myers on June 28, 2001, 06:43:00 AM

"To My Father, and Your Father"

Listen  "To My Father, and Your Father"

 





     The time had come for Christ to ascend to His Father's throne. As a divine conqueror He was about to return with the trophies of victory to the heavenly courts. Before His death He had declared to His Father, "I have finished the work which Thou gavest Me to do." John 17:4. After His resurrection He tarried on earth for a season, that His disciples might become familiar with Him in His risen and glorified body. Now He was ready for the leave-taking. He had authenticated the fact that He was a living Saviour. His disciples need no longer associate Him with the tomb. They could think of Him as glorified before the heavenly universe.   
     As the place of His ascension, Jesus chose the spot so often hallowed by His presence while He dwelt among men. Not Mount Zion, the place of David's city, not Mount Moriah, the temple site, was to be thus honored. There Christ had been mocked and rejected. There the waves of mercy, still returning in a stronger tide of love, had been beaten back by hearts as hard as rock. Thence Jesus, weary and heart-burdened, had gone forth to find rest in the Mount of Olives. The holy Shekinah, in departing from the first temple, had stood upon the eastern mountain, as if loath to forsake the chosen city; so Christ stood upon Olivet, with yearning heart overlooking Jerusalem. The groves and glens of the mountain had been consecrated by His prayers and tears. Its steeps had echoed the triumphant shouts of the multitude that proclaimed Him king. On its sloping descent He had found a home with Lazarus at Bethany. In the garden of Gethsemane at its foot He had prayed and agonized alone. From this mountain He was to ascend to heaven. Upon its summit His feet will rest when He shall come again. Not as a man of sorrows, but as a glorious and triumphant king He will stand upon Olivet, while Hebrew hallelujahs mingle with Gentile hosannas, and the voices of the redeemed as a mighty host shall swell the acclamation, Crown Him Lord of all! 
     Now with the eleven disciples Jesus made His way toward the mountain. As they passed through the gate of Jerusalem, many wondering eyes looked upon the little company, led by One whom a few weeks before the rulers had condemned and crucified. The disciples knew not that this was to be their last interview with their Master. Jesus spent the time in conversation with them, repeating His former instruction. As they approached Gethsemane, He paused, that they might call to mind the lessons He had given them on the night of His great agony. Again He looked upon the vine by which He had then represented the union of His church with Himself and His Father; again He repeated the truths He had then unfolded. All around Him were reminders of His unrequited love. Even the disciples who were so dear to His heart, had, in the hour of His humiliation, reproached and forsaken Him. 
     Christ had sojourned in the world for thirty-three years; He had endured its scorn, insult, and mockery; He had been rejected and crucified. Now, when about to ascend to His throne of glory,--as He reviews the ingratitude of the people He came to save,--will He not withdraw from them His sympathy and love? Will not His affections be centered upon that realm where He is appreciated, and where sinless angels wait to do His bidding? No; His promise to those loved ones whom He leaves on earth is, "I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world." Matthew 28:20. 
     Upon reaching the Mount of Olives, Jesus led the way across the summit, to the vicinity of Bethany. Here He paused, and the disciples gathered about Him. Beams of light seemed to radiate from His countenance as He looked lovingly upon them. He upbraided them not for their faults and failures; words of the deepest tenderness were the last that fell upon their ears from the lips of their Lord. With hands outstretched in blessing, and as if in assurance of His protecting care, He slowly ascended from among them, drawn heavenward by a power stronger than any earthly attraction. As He passed upward, the awe-stricken disciples looked with straining eyes for the last glimpse of their ascending Lord. A cloud of glory hid Him from their sight; and the words came back to them as the cloudy chariot of angels received Him, "Lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world." At the same time there floated down to them the sweetest and most joyous music from the angel choir. 
     While the disciples were still gazing upward, voices addressed them which sounded like richest music. They turned, and saw two angels in the form of men, who spoke to them, saying, "Ye men of Galilee, why stand ye gazing up into heaven? this same Jesus, which is taken up from you into heaven, shall so come in like manner as ye have seen Him go into heaven." 
     These angels were of the company that had been waiting in a shining cloud to escort Jesus to His heavenly home. The most exalted of the angel throng, they were the two who had come to the tomb at Christ's resurrection, and they had been with Him throughout His life on earth. With eager desire all heaven had waited for the end of His tarrying in a world marred by the curse of sin. The time had now come for the heavenly universe to receive their King. Did not the two angels long to join the throng that welcomed Jesus? But in sympathy and love for those whom He had left, they waited to give them comfort. "Are they not all ministering spirits, sent forth to minister for them who shall be heirs of salvation?" Hebrews 1:14. 
     Christ had ascended to heaven in the form of humanity. The disciples had beheld the cloud receive Him. The same Jesus who had walked and talked and prayed with them; who had broken bread with them; who had been with them in their boats on the lake; and who had that very day toiled with them up the ascent of Olivet,--the same Jesus had now gone to share His Father's throne. And the angels had assured them that the very One whom they had seen go up into heaven, would come again even as He had ascended. He will come "with clouds; and every eye shall see Him." "The Lord Himself shall descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the Archangel, and with the trump of God: and the dead in Christ shall rise." "The Son of man shall come in His glory, and all the holy angels with Him, then shall He sit upon the throne of His glory." Revelation 1:7; 1 Thessalonians 4:16; Matthew 25:31. Thus will be fulfilled the Lord's own promise to His disciples: "If I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto Myself; that where I am, there ye may be also." John 14:3. Well might the disciples rejoice in the hope of their Lord's return.
     When the disciples went back to Jerusalem, the people looked upon them with amazement. After the trial and crucifixion of Christ, it had been thought that they would appear downcast and ashamed. Their enemies expected to see upon their faces an expression of sorrow and defeat. Instead of this there was only gladness and triumph. Their faces were aglow with a happiness not born of earth. They did not mourn over disappointed hopes, but were full of praise and thanksgiving to God. With rejoicing they told the wonderful story of Christ's resurrection and His ascension to heaven, and their testimony was received by many.
     The disciples no longer had any distrust of the future. They knew that Jesus was in heaven, and that His sympathies were with them still. They knew that they had a friend at the throne of God, and they were eager to present their requests to the Father in the name of Jesus. In solemn awe they bowed in prayer, repeating the assurance, "Whatsoever ye shall ask the Father in My name, He will give it you. Hitherto have ye asked nothing in My name: ask, and ye shall receive, that your joy may be full." John 16:23, 24. They extended the hand of faith higher and higher, with the mighty argument, "It is Christ that died, yea rather, that is risen again, who is even at the right hand of God, who also maketh intercession for us." Romans 8:34. And Pentecost brought them fullness of joy in the presence of the Comforter, even as Christ had promised.
     All heaven was waiting to welcome the Saviour to the celestial courts. As He ascended, He led the way, and the multitude of captives set free at His resurrection followed. The heavenly host, with shouts and acclamations of praise and celestial song, attended the joyous train. 
     As they drew near to the city of God, the challenge is given by the escorting angels,--


                 "Lift up your heads, O ye gates;
                  And be ye lift up, ye everlasting doors;
                  And the King of glory shall come in." 
     Joyfully the waiting sentinels respond,--

          "Who is this King of glory?" 
     This they say, not because they know not who He is, but because they would hear the answer of exalted praise,--


                "The Lord strong and mighty,
                 The Lord mighty in battle!
                 Lift up your heads, O ye gates;
                 Even lift them up, ye everlasting doors;
                 And the King of glory shall come in." 

     Again is heard the challenge, "Who is this King of glory?" for the angels never weary of hearing His name exalted. The escorting angels make reply,--


                 "The Lord of hosts;
                  He is the King of glory." Psalm 24:7-10.

     Then the portals of the city of God are opened wide, and the angelic throng sweep through the gates amid a burst of rapturous music. 
     There is the throne, and around it the rainbow of promise. There are cherubim and seraphim. The commanders of the angel hosts, the sons of God, the representatives of the unfallen worlds, are assembled. The heavenly council before which Lucifer had accused God and His Son, the representatives of those sinless realms over which Satan had thought to establish his dominion,--all are there to welcome the Redeemer. They are eager to celebrate His triumph and to glorify their King.
     But He waves them back. Not yet; He cannot now receive the coronet of glory and the royal robe. He enters into the presence of His Father. He points to His wounded head, the pierced side, the marred feet; He lifts His hands, bearing the print of nails. He points to the tokens of His triumph; He presents to God the wave sheaf, those raised with Him as representatives of that great multitude who shall come forth from the grave at His second coming. He approaches the Father, with whom there is joy over one sinner that repents; who rejoices over one with singing. Before the foundations of the earth were laid, the Father and the Son had united in a covenant to redeem man if he should be overcome by Satan. They had clasped Their hands in a solemn pledge that Christ should become the surety for the human race. This pledge Christ has fulfilled. When upon the cross He cried out, "It is finished," He addressed the Father. The compact had been fully carried out. Now He declares: Father, it is finished. I have done Thy will, O My God. I have completed the work of redemption. If Thy justice is satisfied, "I will that they also, whom Thou hast given Me, be with Me where I am." John 19:30; 17:24. 
     The voice of God is heard proclaiming that justice is satisfied. Satan is vanquished. Christ's toiling, struggling ones on earth are "accepted in the Beloved." Ephesians 1:6. Before the heavenly angels and the representatives of unfallen worlds, they are declared justified. Where He is, there His church shall be. "Mercy and truth are met together; righteousness and peace have kissed each other." Psalm 85:10. The Father's arms encircle His Son, and the word is given, "Let all the angels of God worship Him." Hebrews 1:6. 
     With joy unutterable, rulers and principalities and powers acknowledge the supremacy of the Prince of life. The angel host prostrate themselves before Him, while the glad shout fills all the courts of heaven, "Worthy is the Lamb that was slain to receive power, and riches, and wisdom, and strength, and honor, and glory, and blessing." Revelation 5:12. 
     Songs of triumph mingle with the music from angel harps, till heaven seems to overflow with joy and praise. Love has conquered. The lost is found. Heaven rings with voices in lofty strains proclaiming, "Blessing, and honor, and glory, and power, be unto Him that sitteth upon the throne, and unto the Lamb forever and ever." Revelation 5:13.

     From that scene of heavenly joy, there comes back to us on earth the echo of Christ's own wonderful words, "I ascend unto My Father, and your Father; and to My God, and your God." John 20:17. The family of heaven and the family of earth are one. For us our Lord ascended, and for us He lives. "Wherefore He is able also to save them to the uttermost that come unto God by Him, seeing He ever liveth to make intercession for them." Hebrews 7:25. 


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A revelation of the character of God is what we need. This is what we have been given as we have read of the life of Jesus. May His love and grace be our study as we draw near to the end. If we will spend a thoughtful hour each day contemplating His character, then we shall have the wonderful blessing of making the character of our God our study for eternity. What a God we serve!!

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--Final Chapter--"To My Father, and Your Father"
Post by: Joan on July 05, 2001, 04:28:00 AM

Desire of Ages
Chapter 87
"To my Father, and your Father"

Whatever is it that unites us as a religious body claiming to be the body of Christ visible ? Is it not the primary desire to worship the Almighty Creator God with praise and adoration ? To bow before Him with delight in recognizing his magnificant splendorousness.  Is not our motivation to focus on the true character of God that is unfalsified and without distortions ? Is not our most secret wish to do and speak so as to make His heart pleased with what comes out of us ?

Deep within me I sense that the true members of Christ's body yearn with the whole heart to honor God by being in His righteousness and remaining there. We are united in this heartfelt gratefulness for what God did through His Son to accomplish the atoning of the break between the Creator and His humans. When the true members of the body of Christ give out of love and thankfulness sacrifices of paise, a sacrifice of one's body in holy service, and veneration of the Lord God Jehovah with respectful obedience to His commands, then unity is among the even two or thee coming together as members of the body of Christ.

The time for the Lord to part had arrived after the 40 days of being among the living after He was resurrected. The mount of Olives was the place where Jesus had chosen to depart from His disciples. It was the rise of land where the olive tree garden of Gethsemane was which shortly before gave forth great scenes of agonizing prayer and then violent arrest. But inspiration paints a picture of departure from peaceful victory. "With hands outstretched in blessing, and as if in assurance of His protecting care, He slowly ascended from among them, drawn heavenward by a power stronger than any earthly attraction. As He passed upward, the awe-stricken disciples looked with straining eyes for the last glimpse of their ascending Lord. A cloud of glory hid Him from their sight; and the words came back to them as the cloudy chariot of angels received Him, "Lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world." At the same time there floated down to them the sweetest and most joyous music from the angel choir."

"While the disciples were still gazing upward, voices addressed them which sounded like richest music. They turned, and saw two angels in the form of men, who spoke to them, saying, "Ye men of Galilee, why stand ye gazing up into heaven? this same Jesus, which is taken up from you into heaven, shall so come in like manner as ye have seen Him go into heaven." Jesus always considerate of the natural human feelings and responses to strange occurances or painful situations, He left two angels to stay and minister to them again words of divine comfort.  "They turned, and saw two angels in the form of men, who spoke to them, saying, "Ye men of Galilee, why stand ye gazing up into heaven? this same Jesus, which is taken up from you into heaven, shall so come in like manner as ye have seen Him go into heaven." No secret rapture, no secret appearance in some future date. He will come "with clouds; and every eye shall see Him." "The Lord Himself shall descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the Archangel, and with the trump of God: and the dead in Christ shall rise." "The Son of man shall come in His glory, and all the holy angels with Him, then shall He sit upon the throne of His glory." Rev. 1:7; 1 Thess. 4:16; Matt. 25:31.

Back among the people of the city, the disciples uncertainty or despondancy was completely gone. Something special shone in their faces as they spoke to others about the soon coming of the Lord a second time.  They had three substances of truth to motivate the happiness shining through their faces when they gave witness to Jesus........
1.) "The disciples no longer had any distrust of the future."
2.) "They knew that Jesus was in heaven, and that His sympathies were with them still."
3.) "They knew that they had a friend at the throne of God, and they were eager to present their requests to the Father in the name of Jesus."
And as Pentecost time fulfilled the given promise of Jesus to send the Comforter, they were boundless in their joy and power to live the victorious Christian life of overcoming.

We get so caught up with earthbound looking which causes us to tremble in uncertainties and fears that we overlook the need to apply our God given imagination for visualizing just how heaven's occupants experience the ascension of Jesus back to the heavenly home.
"Then the portals of the city of God are opened wide, and the angelic throng sweep through the gates amid a burst of rapturous music."

" He enters into the presence of His Father. He points to His wounded head, the pierced side, the marred feet; He lifts His hands, bearing the print of nails. He points to the tokens of His triumph; He presents to God the wave sheaf, those raised with Him as representatives of that great multitude who shall come forth from the grave at His second coming. He approaches the Father, with whom there is joy over one sinner that repents; who rejoices over one with singing. Before the foundations of the earth were laid, the Father and the Son had united in a covenant to redeem man if he should be overcome by Satan. They had clasped Their hands in a solemn pledge that Christ should become the surety for the human race. This pledge Christ has fulfilled. When upon the cross He cried out, "It is finished," He addressed the Father. The compact had been fully carried out. Now He declares: Father, it is finished. I have done Thy will, O My God. I have completed the work of redemption. If Thy justice is satisfied, "I will that they also, whom Thou hast given Me, be with Me where I am." John 19:30; 17:24.

"The voice of God is heard proclaiming that justice is satisfied. Satan is vanquished. Christ's toiling, struggling ones on earth are "accepted in the Beloved." Eph. 1:6. Before the heavenly angels and the representatives of unfallen worlds, they are declared justified. Where He is, there His church shall be. "Mercy and truth are met together; righteousness and peace have kissed each other." Ps. 85:10. The Father's arms encircle His Son, and the word is given, "Let all the angels of God worship Him." Heb. 1:6.

We are here still on earth to go through a time of purging santification. Fear will be one of our biggest enemies to weaking our character growing into perfection in the resistance of evil. Fear of loss, fear of pain, fear of losing social acceptance, fear of suffering, fear of rejection and even fear of not being accepted by God.

But Jesus has overcome this world and the fears govening the inhabitants of it.
"Wherefore He is able also to save them to the uttermost that come unto God by Him, seeing He ever liveth to make intercession for them." Heb. 7:25.

Our perfect love for Him will cast out all our fears.
On the condition that our eyes are fully looking on Jesus.

Matthew 17:7 ......

"And Jesus came and touched them, and said, Arise, and be not afraid.

And when they had lifted up their eyes, they saw no man, save Jesus only."

~~~
Joan
~~~

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--Final Chapter--"To My Father, and Your Father"
Post by: Richard Myers on July 07, 2001, 09:01:00 AM

Amen, Sister Joan.  The passage that moves me very much by an expression of God's character is this "The Father's arms encircle His Son..."  Dear friends, have you considered that we are really made in the image of God? Can you envision the arms of God the Father? Allow your mind to picture the form of God the Father. Can you see that while He is a Holy God, that He has a form as you and I have? Can you see Him with His arms around Jesus?  Contemplate the reality of God. Yes, we cannot imagine standing in the presence of God the Father, but it is His desire that we not only stand with Him, but share in His throne with His Holy innocent Son who He allowed to suffer and die in our place. Make no mistake that most will die and be raised from the dead to suffer for their sins, but understand also, the character of our God is to forgive if we will learn of Him. It is not His desire that we should die. He wants us to live and not only live, but to share in His kingdom. What a God! 

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--Final Chapter--"To My Father, and Your Father"
Post by: Richard Myers on April 17, 2016, 06:13:50 AM

We all know Jesus. Each day as we read about His life, we get to know Him better until we live for Him, not self. But, do we know our heavenly Father? Jesus said if we know Him, we know His Father. But, do we know Him personally? Not like we know Jesus. We know His character of unfathomable love. We saw that in chapter four where He risked His Son to come to this dark spot in the universe as a helpless babe subject the weakness of humanity, to fight the battle of life as each of us has to fight it.

Here I find something so very beautiful about our heavenly Father. And, for the first time when I read this, I saw our heavenly Father has a body like we do!  Some believe Him to be just Spirit, as is the Holy Spirit. But, no, He is like us with a body. How do we know? Read this most endearing statement as He welcomes His innocent Son back home.

  The voice of God is heard proclaiming that justice is satisfied. Satan is vanquished. Christ's toiling, struggling ones on earth are "accepted in the Beloved." Ephesians 1:6. Before the heavenly angels and the representatives of unfallen worlds, they are declared justified. Where He is, there His church shall be. "Mercy and truth are met together; righteousness and peace have kissed each other." Psalm 85:10. The Father's arms encircle His Son, and the word is given, "Let all the angels of God worship Him." Hebrews 1:6. 

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--Final Chapter--"To My Father, and Your Father"
Post by: JimB on April 17, 2016, 06:35:33 AM

I remember reading that before but I guess it never occurred to me that some think the Father is a Spirit. We so often talk about Jesus and what He's done, and rightly so, but as you pointed out the Father risked His son when Jesus came to this earth. Jesus also said that if you've seen me you've seen the Father. Both risked eternal separation to save us. Alleluia and Amen!

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--Final Chapter--"To My Father, and Your Father"
Post by: Richard Myers on April 17, 2016, 07:22:52 AM

Good morning, Jim. Here is a verse that would lead some to think our heavenly Father is in Spirit only, even though it does not say it.  "God is a Spirit: and they that worship him must worship Him in spirit and in truth." John 4:24.

I have never thought of our heavenly Father as a Spirit, but I had never pictured Him at all. Jesus I can see because I read about Him. But, our Father I have not seen, but heard. He spoke three times in Scripture in an audible voice. I just never have spent time thinking about Him doing things as we see Jesus doing things.  The most beautiful things I have ever read are the following.  All three reveal the character of our heavenly Father.

     The story of Bethlehem is an exhaustless theme. In it is hidden "the depth of the riches both of the wisdom and knowledge of God." Romans 11:33. We marvel at the Saviour's sacrifice in exchanging the throne of heaven for the manger, and the companionship of adoring angels for the beasts of the stall. Human pride and self-sufficiency stand rebuked in His presence. Yet this was but the beginning of His wonderful condescension. It would have been an almost infinite humiliation for the Son of God to take man's nature, even when Adam stood in his innocence in Eden. But Jesus accepted humanity when the race had been weakened by four thousand years of sin. Like every child of Adam He accepted the results of the working of the great law of heredity. What these results were is shown in the history of His earthly ancestors. He came with such a heredity to share our sorrows and temptations, and to give us the example of a sinless life.
     Satan in heaven had hated Christ for His position in the courts of God. He hated Him the more when he himself was dethroned. He hated Him who pledged Himself to redeem a race of sinners. Yet into the world where Satan claimed dominion God permitted His Son to come, a helpless babe, subject to the weakness of humanity. He permitted Him to meet life's peril in common with every human soul, to fight the battle as every child of humanity must fight it, at the risk of failure and eternal loss.   
     The heart of the human father yearns over his son. He looks into the face of his little child, and trembles at the thought of life's peril. He longs to shield his dear one from Satan's power, to hold him back from temptation and conflict. To meet a bitterer conflict and a more fearful risk, God gave His only-begotten Son, that the path of life might be made sure for our little ones. "Herein is love." Wonder, O heavens! and be astonished, O earth! 

Such love!!!

And here is a statement that I wondered about the first time I read it. I could not understand why God would ask a father to kill his son. I did not think bad of God, but I was perplexed. As I studied my Bible, I one day was shown that God allows things to happen in this world that we may not understand, but there is a very good reason for all He does. I understood what He did was for a reason, I just did not understand. Then, He showed me that Abram knew the lamb represented God's Son. He had been making sacrifices for many years. He was not as the Jews at the time Christ came into the world. He understood his sins were to be taken upon Jesus so he could be forgiven.

But, he nor I, at that time, had really felt what God would feel as His Son was put to death. Abraham lifted the knife, his heart ached as he was about to kill his son. What a horrible feeling. Then when God stopped him, Abram saw the ram caught in the thicket. He immediately correctly identified the ram as the Son of God. And, then he understood how much the Father loved him. That He had stopped Abram from killing his son, but He would not stop the murder of His innocent Son. He understood that our heavenly Father suffered extreme pain in allowing His Son to come to this dark spot in the universe to suffer and die at the hands of wicked men. What had been a mystery to me, became the most beautiful truth in the Bible.

 22:6   And Abraham took the wood of the burnt offering, and laid [it] upon Isaac his son; and he took the fire in his hand, and a knife; and they went both of them together. 
 22:7   And Isaac spake unto Abraham his father, and said, My father: and he said, Here [am] I, my son. And he said, Behold the fire and the wood: but where [is] the lamb for a burnt offering? 
 22:8   And Abraham said, My son, God will provide himself a lamb for a burnt offering: so they went both of them together. 
 22:9   And they came to the place which God had told him of; and Abraham built an altar there, and laid the wood in order, and bound Isaac his son, and laid him on the altar upon the wood. 
 22:10   And Abraham stretched forth his hand, and took the knife to slay his son. 
 22:11   And the angel of the LORD called unto him out of heaven, and said, Abraham, Abraham: and he said, Here [am] I. 
 22:12   And he said, Lay not thine hand upon the lad, neither do thou any thing unto him: for now I know that thou fearest God, seeing thou hast not withheld thy son, thine only [son] from me. 
 22:13   And Abraham lifted up his eyes, and looked, and behold behind [him] a ram caught in a thicket by his horns: and Abraham went and took the ram, and offered him up for a burnt offering in the stead of his son. 

And then today's reading where we see the "the Father's arms encircle His Son." Tell me that after what Jesus had been through, that the separation and risk taken, did not make that reunion most precious. And now I have a picture of our heavenly Father doing something!  :) How precious!

  "Mercy and truth are met together; righteousness and peace have kissed each other." Psalm 85:10. The Father's arms encircle His Son, and the word is given, "Let all the angels of God worship Him." Hebrews 1:6. 

All of this for me, a great sinner!!  Such love! It is through a knowledge of our God that we may be drawn back to Him. These are the great revelations of love that have caused me to love my Savior and my heavenly Father more than sin. I just need to keep them in my mind so I do not wander away from them! O how I love them who have proved their love for us not after we surrendered, but while we were the enemy. This is the grace that transforms, the grace that saves!!

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--Final Chapter--"To My Father, and Your Father"
Post by: Richard Myers on July 14, 2016, 06:06:22 AM

It is very difficult to move away from what I have already posted regarding this last chapter in this most beautiful book.

Let me build upon what I already have shared. Jesus has come forth from the grave and has returned to heaven. The angels welcome Him with a great celebration, but Jesus stops them. He must first hear the words of His Father that His sacrifice is acceptable, that the repentant sinners are saved.

     He enters into the presence of His Father. He points to His wounded head, the pierced side, the marred feet; He lifts His hands, bearing the print of nails. He points to the tokens of His triumph; He presents to God the wave sheaf, those raised with Him as representatives of that great multitude who shall come forth from the grave at His second coming. He approaches the Father, with whom there is joy over one sinner that repents; who rejoices over one with singing. Before the foundations of the earth were laid, the Father and the Son had united in a covenant to redeem man if he should be overcome by Satan. They had clasped Their hands in a solemn pledge that Christ should become the surety for the human race. This pledge Christ has fulfilled. When upon the cross He cried out, "It is finished," He addressed the Father. The compact had been fully carried out. Now He declares: Father, it is finished. I have done Thy will, O My God. I have completed the work of redemption. If Thy justice is satisfied, "I will that they also, whom Thou hast given Me, be with Me where I am." John 19:30; 17:24.
     The voice of God is heard proclaiming that justice is satisfied. Satan is vanquished. Christ's toiling, struggling ones on earth are "accepted in the Beloved." Ephesians 1:6. Before the heavenly angels and the representatives of unfallen worlds, they are declared justified. Where He is, there His church shall be. "Mercy and truth are met together; righteousness and peace have kissed each other." Psalm 85:10. The Father's arms encircle His Son, and the word is given, "Let all the angels of God worship Him." Hebrews 1:6. 

Loving Savior has us on His heart. Yes, God's justice was not set aside to save us. No, God's justice cannot be set aside. But, our loving Father and Savior put in place a plan that would save all who would learn of them. Mercy was extended at such a great cost! For what was such a price paid? Jesus shall see the travail of His soul.

Great as is the shame and degradation through sin, even greater will be the honor and exaltation through redeeming love. To human beings, striving for conformity to the divine image, there is imparted an outlay of heaven's treasure, an excellency of power that will place them higher than even the angels who have never fallen.  HP 148.  

God will have His witnesses of the power of grace to transform sinners into saints. It is the righteousness of Christ that will be seen in repentant sinners that is the reason for the cross. Let us not deny Jesus His reward for all of His suffering. And, it is not just Jesus who suffered. Our loving heavenly Father found it hard to follow through with the compact entered into before the foundation of the world. It was not easy to risk losing His innocent Son, but He loves us and allowed Jesus to come to this dark spot in the universe where Satan claimed dominion, as a helpless babe subject to the weakness of humanity, to fight the battle of life as each child of humanity must fight it at the risk of failure and eternal loss! What love! Wonder O heavens and be astonished O Earth!

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--Final Chapter--"To My Father, and Your Father"
Post by: Pastor Sean Brizendine on July 14, 2016, 09:04:51 AM

Amen, Richard! I see consistency in your posts and how much you love Jesus, and want others to experience that love, too! That is also my deep desire!

I was so blessed by this chapter this morning, as it reveals to us how Christ's sojourn on earth had a very important purpose--to make it possible for us to eternally be with Him, and to be made like Him in character by experiencing the power of the gospel!

"Christ had ascended to heaven in the form of humanity. The disciples had beheld the cloud receive Him. The same Jesus who had walked and talked and prayed with them; who had broken bread with them; who had been with them in their boats on the lake; and who had that very day toiled with them up the ascent of Olivet,--the same Jesus had now gone to share His Father's throne. And the angels had assured them that the very One whom they had seen go up into heaven, would come again even as He had ascended. He will come "with clouds; and every eye shall see Him." "The Lord Himself shall descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the Archangel, and with the trump of God: and the dead in Christ shall rise." "The Son of man shall come in His glory, and all the holy angels with Him, then shall He sit upon the throne of His glory." Revelation 1:7; 1 Thessalonians 4:16; Matthew 25:31. Thus will be fulfilled the Lord's own promise to His disciples: "If I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto Myself; that where I am, there ye may be also." John 14:3. Well might the disciples rejoice in the hope of their Lord's return."{DA 832.2}

What an incredible, infinite sacrifice! Jesus goes to heaven "in the form of humanity"--He is eternally our Brother! Wow! What love is this, and because of Him we can now have an intimate, personal relationship with our Father, who also has a form, and who with the Son and the Holy Spirit has made us in His image! Though that image has been marred by sin, I am so grateful that the gospel contemplates and assures us of COMPLETE recovery from sin through the grace of God! Hallelujah! Jesus is coming again!

I am looking forward already to the opportunity to experience more blessings and character transformation in again reading this book, as tomorrow we will read chapter 1! By beholding we become changed!

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--Final Chapter--"To My Father, and Your Father"
Post by: Richard Myers on October 09, 2016, 05:21:05 AM

Amen, Pastor Sean!  The greatest miracle God can do is to re-create us in His image. It is a promise we may claim if we will spend a thoughtful hour a day contemplating His great love of us.  "But we all, with open face beholding as in a glass the glory of the Lord, are changed into the same image from glory to glory, even as by the Spirit of the Lord." 2 Corinthians 3:18. What is the "glory of the Lord"? It is His character. What about His character is it that turns a sinner into a saint, that reproduces His character in us, His righteousness? It is His grace, His mercy towards us while we were yet sinners. He did not wait until we became saints to love us, to suffer for us, to die for us, for we cannot be changed without Him. No, He suffered and died for us while we were at enmity with Him! What a God!! And, our heavenly Father risked losing His innocent Son that we might have the opportunity to know and serve them. Such love!

Here is something that reminds me of what grace really is. It is more than a word.

     Christ had sojourned in the world for thirty-three years; He had endured its scorn, insult, and mockery; He had been rejected and crucified. Now, when about to ascend to His throne of glory,--as He reviews the ingratitude of the people He came to save,--will He not withdraw from them His sympathy and love? Will not His affections be centered upon that realm where He is appreciated, and where sinless angels wait to do His bidding? No; His promise to those loved ones whom He leaves on earth is, "I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world." Matthew 28:20. 

Grace is undeserved love. This is what reaches through our vile fallen flesh and the walls of the carnal heart and changes the sinner from the inside out. Though our sins be as scarlet, they shall be as white as snow. Jesus can cleanse us, our sin stained hearts, if we will come to Him just as we are, if we will learn of Him and see the stripes upon His back, that belong to you and me. This is what we have been doing here in this forum. We are learning of the grace of our God. Join with us, each day as we share that which God is pleading with His church to do. Jesus tells us "if any man thirst, let him come unto me, and drink. He that believeth on me, as the scripture hath said, out of his belly shall flow rivers of living water." John 7:37,38.  "Incline your ear, and come unto me: hear, and your soul shall live; and I will make an everlasting covenant with you, even the sure mercies of David." Isaiah 55:3.

This is why we are here today. We are "coming to Jesus" that we might be filled with His love, through His Spirit. And then we may be a blessing to others in sharing this Living Water, the water of life.

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--Final Chapter--"To My Father, and Your Father"
Post by: Pastor Sean Brizendine on October 09, 2016, 06:59:28 AM

Amen, Richard!!! What a God! What a Savior! His grace is as thick about us as the air we breathe, but only by daily, continually beholding His loveliness are we able to be changed! Today we find such comfort for the future, as did the disciples!

The disciples no longer had any distrust of the future. They knew that Jesus was in heaven, and that His sympathies were with them still. They knew that they had a friend at the throne of God, and they were eager to present their requests to the Father in the name of Jesus. In solemn awe they bowed in prayer, repeating the assurance, “Whatsoever ye shall ask the Father in My name, He will give it you. Hitherto have ye asked nothing in My name: ask, and ye shall receive, that your joy may be full.” John 16:23, 24. They extended the hand of faith higher and higher, with the mighty argument, “It is Christ that died, yea rather, that is risen again, who is even at the right hand of God, who also maketh intercession for us.” Romans 8:34. And Pentecost brought them fullness of joy in the presence of the Comforter, even as Christ had promised. – {DA 833.1}

As long as we have Jesus abiding within our hearts, we can rejoice in hope of the glory (character) of God!

I am so so looking forward to starting our reading of The Desire of Ages again in chapter one tomorrow! I pray that more will join us in reading and posting! Come and be blessed, and share how blessed you are in beholding Jesus!

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--Final Chapter--"To My Father, and Your Father"
Post by: Richard Myers on January 04, 2017, 07:54:30 AM

Amen, Pastor Sean! What a joyous chapter as we read of the celebration that took place in heaven when Jesus' work on Earth was finished! All heaven welcomed the King of Glory! But, none could worship the Lord until our heavenly Father declared the Sacrifice was complete, that the sins of the whole world had been paid for. What suffering had taken place for us while we were yet sinners!! What character had been formed through that suffering!

Jesus enters into the presence of His Father. He points to His wounded head, the pierced side, the marred feet; He lifts His hands, bearing the print of nails. He points to the tokens of His triumph; He presents to God the wave sheaf, those raised with Him as representatives of that great multitude who shall come forth from the grave at His second coming. He approaches the Father, with whom there is joy over one sinner that repents; who rejoices over one with singing. Before the foundations of the earth were laid, the Father and the Son had united in a covenant to redeem man if he should be overcome by Satan. They had clasped Their hands in a solemn pledge that Christ should become the surety for the human race. This pledge Christ has fulfilled. When upon the cross He cried out, "It is finished," He addressed the Father. The compact had been fully carried out. Now He declares: Father, it is finished. I have done Thy will, O My God. I have completed the work of redemption. If Thy justice is satisfied, "I will that they also, whom Thou hast given Me, be with Me where I am." John 19:30; 17:24.
     The voice of God is heard proclaiming that justice is satisfied. Satan is vanquished. Christ's toiling, struggling ones on earth are "accepted in the Beloved." Ephesians 1:6. Before the heavenly angels and the representatives of unfallen worlds, they are declared justified. Where He is, there His church shall be. "Mercy and truth are met together; righteousness and peace have kissed each other." Psalm 85:10. The Father's arms encircle His Son, and the word is given, "Let all the angels of God worship Him." Hebrews 1:6.
     With joy unutterable, rulers and principalities and powers acknowledge the supremacy of the Prince of life. The angel host prostrate themselves before Him, while the glad shout fills all the courts of heaven, "Worthy is the Lamb that was slain to receive power, and riches, and wisdom, and strength, and honor, and glory, and blessing." Revelation 5:12.
     Songs of triumph mingle with the music from angel harps, till heaven seems to overflow with joy and praise. Love has conquered. The lost is found. Heaven rings with voices in lofty strains proclaiming, "Blessing, and honor, and glory, and power, be unto Him that sitteth upon the throne, and unto the Lamb forever and ever." Revelation 5:13.

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--Final Chapter--"To My Father, and Your Father"
Post by: Pastor Sean Brizendine on January 04, 2017, 09:54:56 AM

Amen, Richard! We rejoice as we contemplate the completed work of Jesus in our behalf!

Christ had ascended to heaven in the form of humanity. The disciples had beheld the cloud receive Him. The same Jesus who had walked and talked and prayed with them; who had broken bread with them; who had been with them in their boats on the lake; and who had that very day toiled with them up the ascent of Olivet,--the same Jesus had now gone to share His Father's throne. And the angels had assured them that the very One whom they had seen go up into heaven, would come again even as He had ascended. He will come "with clouds; and every eye shall see Him." "The Lord Himself shall descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the Archangel, and with the trump of God: and the dead in Christ shall rise." "The Son of man shall come in His glory, and all the holy angels with Him, then shall He sit upon the throne of His glory." Revelation 1:7; 1 Thessalonians 4:16; Matthew 25:31. Thus will be fulfilled the Lord's own promise to His disciples: "If I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto Myself; that where I am, there ye may be also." John 14:3. Well might the disciples rejoice in the hope of their Lord's return.

Our Elder Brother sits upon the eternal throne--a pledge that we, through becoming partakers of the divine nature, may also sit there one day, as we can overcome through the strength and grace imparted to repentant sinners who choose to behold the loveliness of Jesus!

I have an appeal--if you are reading this and you have not yet "joined us" in reading through The Desire of Ages and posting what the Holy Spirit reveals to you of Jesus' loveliness, may you sense God's invitation to join us as tomorrow we begin again to read and share from this beautiful book--starting at chapter 1. May God bless you!

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--Final Chapter--"To My Father, and Your Father"
Post by: Richard Myers on April 01, 2017, 06:20:20 AM

What a glorious day that was when Jesus was escorted into heaven!!!

     Then the portals of the city of God are opened wide, and the angelic throng sweep through the gates amid a burst of rapturous music.
     There is the throne, and around it the rainbow of promise. There are cherubim and seraphim. The commanders of the angel hosts, the sons of God, the representatives of the unfallen worlds, are assembled. The heavenly council before which Lucifer had accused God and His Son, the representatives of those sinless realms over which Satan had thought to establish his dominion,--all are there to welcome the Redeemer. They are eager to celebrate His triumph and to glorify their King.
     But He waves them back. Not yet; He cannot now receive the coronet of glory and the royal robe. He enters into the presence of His Father. He points to His wounded head, the pierced side, the marred feet; He lifts His hands, bearing the print of nails. He points to the tokens of His triumph; He presents to God the wave sheaf, those raised with Him as representatives of that great multitude who shall come forth from the grave at His second coming. He approaches the Father, with whom there is joy over one sinner that repents; who rejoices over one with singing. Before the foundations of the earth were laid, the Father and the Son had united in a covenant to redeem man if he should be overcome by Satan. They had clasped Their hands in a solemn pledge that Christ should become the surety for the human race. This pledge Christ has fulfilled. When upon the cross He cried out, "It is finished," He addressed the Father. The compact had been fully carried out. Now He declares: Father, it is finished. I have done Thy will, O My God. I have completed the work of redemption. If Thy justice is satisfied, "I will that they also, whom Thou hast given Me, be with Me where I am." John 19:30; 17:24.
     The voice of God is heard proclaiming that justice is satisfied. Satan is vanquished.

What a glorious day it will be when Jesus is escorted back to the exact place from which He ascended!! Don't you want to be there? Then let us rejoice in the truth that because of what Jesus has done, we have this hope!!

    He will come "with clouds; and every eye shall see Him." "The Lord Himself shall descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the Archangel, and with the trump of God: and the dead in Christ shall rise." "The Son of man shall come in His glory, and all the holy angels with Him, then shall He sit upon the throne of His glory." Revelation 1:7; 1 Thessalonians 4:16; Matthew 25:31. Thus will be fulfilled the Lord's own promise to His disciples: "If I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto Myself; that where I am, there ye may be also." John 14:3. Well might the disciples rejoice in the hope of their Lord's return.

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--Final Chapter--"To My Father, and Your Father"
Post by: Pastor Sean Brizendine on April 01, 2017, 09:14:53 AM

Amen, Richard! Jesus is coming again!!! I find great joy in this hope and have the opportunity to point others to Jesus today:

  While the disciples were still gazing upward, voices addressed them which sounded like richest music. They turned, and saw two angels in the form of men, who spoke to them, saying, "Ye men of Galilee, why stand ye gazing up into heaven? this same Jesus, which is taken up from you into heaven, shall so come in like manner as ye have seen Him go into heaven." 

Let us look up to Him evermore!

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--Final Chapter--"To My Father, and Your Father"
Post by: Pastor Sean Brizendine on June 27, 2017, 04:57:26 AM

What a joy it has been to read Desire of Ages again! As we will begin again tomorrow in Chapter 1, please join us for this experience of beholding the loveliness of Jesus! We see that Christ's ministry is clearly connected with repetition for our benefit:

 Now with the eleven disciples Jesus made His way toward the mountain. As they passed through the gate of Jerusalem, many wondering eyes looked upon the little company, led by One whom a few weeks before the rulers had condemned and crucified. The disciples knew not that this was to be their last interview with their Master. Jesus spent the time in conversation with them, repeating His former instruction. As they approached Gethsemane, He paused, that they might call to mind the lessons He had given them on the night of His great agony. Again He looked upon the vine by which He had then represented the union of His church with Himself and His Father; again He repeated the truths He had then unfolded. All around Him were reminders of His unrequited love. Even the disciples who were so dear to His heart, had, in the hour of His humiliation, reproached and forsaken Him. 

Jesus repeats the very things we need to keep uppermost in our minds. May we receive the blessing of His repeated words experientially by continuing to journey together through this blessed revelation of Jesus! It is as we behold Him that He changes us and prepares us for heaven!!!

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--Final Chapter--"To My Father, and Your Father"
Post by: JimB on June 27, 2017, 05:18:15 AM

Quote from: Pastor Sean Brizendine on June 27, 2017, 04:57:26 AM

please join us for this experience of beholding the loveliness of Jesus! We see that Christ's ministry is clearly connected with repetition for our benefit:

Amen pastor Sean! There are not many books I can read and re-read again and again and get the same joy out of it as the first time around. As a matter of fact out side of the Bible I can't think of another book that has grabbed my attention like the Desire of Ages. Over the years that have been a couple of books that I've read 2 or 3 times but since I started reading the Desire of Ages in the mornings a 3 or 4 years back (maybe more, can't remember for sure) I'm not sure how many times I've been through it now and what a blessing it has been.

The best thing it does is it's connects us with Christ as the heart is drawn out to Him each morning but there are other benefits of reading this book so many times. For me it has become in a way an error detector. I'll be listening to someone speak about spiritual matters and they will say something that triggers a memory and I'll say to myself.... "that's not right, because in the Desire of Ages it says this or that..."  Repetition is indeed good for us.

"While the disciples were still gazing upward, voices addressed them which sounded like richest music. They turned, and saw two angels in the form of men, who spoke to them, saying, "Ye men of Galilee, why stand ye gazing up into heaven? this same Jesus, which is taken up from you into heaven, shall so come in like manner as ye have seen Him go into heaven." Jesus always considerate of the natural human feelings and responses to strange occurances or painful situations, He left two angels to stay and minister to them again words of divine comfort.

Here is my lovely Savior again looking out for others. Just like he looked out for His mother while hanging on the cross, now He brings his forlorn disciples words of comfort as He ascends to Heaven to be with His Father. Selflessness is our Savior always being considerate towards us lowly human beings. What a Savior we serve!!

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--Final Chapter--"To My Father, and Your Father"
Post by: Richard Myers on June 28, 2017, 06:27:19 AM

Amen!  What a Savior!  The angels never weary of hearing His name exalted. The universe has witnessed His work of redemption and know that God is just and merciful and Satan is vanquished.  "Mercy and truth are met together; righteousness and peace have kissed each other." Psalm 85:10. The Father's arms encircle His Son, and the word is given, "Let all the angels of God worship Him." Hebrews 1:6.
     With joy unutterable, rulers and principalities and powers acknowledge the supremacy of the Prince of life. The angel host prostrate themselves before Him, while the glad shout fills all the courts of heaven, "Worthy is the Lamb that was slain to receive power, and riches, and wisdom, and strength, and honor, and glory, and blessing." Revelation 5:12. 

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--Final Chapter--"To My Father, and Your Father"
Post by: Pastor Sean Brizendine on September 22, 2017, 04:04:33 AM

I am so blessed to contemplate Christ's ascension to heaven, and that as He was on His way with His disciples, it is beautiful to see how heaven was already in their experience because of a full-faith surrender and hearts aglow with the love of Jesus! We may have this today with Him as we do His will and yield all to Him as we behold the loveliness of Jesus!

"When the disciples went back to Jerusalem, the people looked upon them with amazement. After the trial and crucifixion of Christ, it had been thought that they would appear downcast and ashamed. Their enemies expected to see upon their faces an expression of sorrow and defeat. Instead of this there was only gladness and triumph. Their faces were aglow with a happiness not born of earth. They did not mourn over disappointed hopes, but were full of praise and thanksgiving to God. With rejoicing they told the wonderful story of Christ's resurrection and His ascension to heaven, and their testimony was received by many." {The Desire of Ages, page 832, paragraph 3}

Only the presence of Jesus can make men and women happy, and when we are fully surrendered to Him and have Him with us in every trial and experience of life, we are truly blessed to await His return and to go forth to diffuse that light and blessing to others!

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--Final Chapter--"To My Father, and Your Father"
Post by: Pastor Sean Brizendine on December 18, 2017, 04:52:17 AM

Contemplating Christ's ascension to heaven is an encouragement to us while still on earth, for He stands as our representative and advocate, and all who will make a full surrender to Him will experience His justifying, sanctifying righteousness. Christ comes to indwell the soul by His Spirit and His blood atones for our sins. We can press onward in the Christian life with joy and happiness found in Him!

"The voice of God is heard proclaiming that justice is satisfied. Satan is vanquished. Christ's toiling, struggling ones on earth are 'accepted in the Beloved.' Ephesians 1:6. Before the heavenly angels and the representatives of unfallen worlds, they are declared justified. Where He is, there His church shall be. 'Mercy and truth are met together; righteousness and peace have kissed each other.' Psalm 85:10. The Father's arms encircle His Son, and the word is given, 'Let all the angels of God worship Him.' Hebrews 1:6." {The Desire of Ages, page 834, paragraph 4}

How shall we be prepared to enter heaven? I was also reading in Manuscript Releases this morning, and I was so very blessed to find many gems of encouragement! One I will share is here:

"We must keep the eye directed upward to God above the ladder. The question with men and women gazing heavenward is, How can I obtain the mansions for the blessed? It is by being a partaker of the divine nature. It is by escaping the 'corruption that is in the world through lust.' It is by entering into the holiest by the blood of Jesus, laying hold of the hope set before you in the gospel. It is by fastening yourself to Christ and straining every nerve to leave the world behind, laboring to diminish by successive steps your distance from God, who is at the top of the ladder. It is by being in Christ and yet led by Christ; by believing and working—trusting in Jesus, yet working upon the plan of addition, holding onto Christ and constantly mounting upward toward God." – {Manuscript Releases, Volume 19, page 354, paragraph 1}

We need to continually partake of "the divine nature" (2 Peter 1:4), and knowing that we have our Elder Brother at the throne of the Eternal should encourage us to press onward with courage and determination in the right direction, letting go of doubtful habits and pressing in the way of Christ's character. Let us choose this day to serve Christ, and by beholding His loveliness of character we are encouraged in our press onward to victory! Christ is the victory, and as long as we maintain a continual surrender of the will to Him, we shall be partakers of His nature, which is revealed in all of the fruits of the Spirit without one missing. We need Jesus in our experience, and we can continue to have a deeper experience with Him, for He invites us to grow in His grace from "glory to glory" (2 Corinthians 3:18)--from character to character. Who you are today in Christ is not what Jesus wants to make you tomorrow...so keep looking to Him and the transformation will be continuous! Praise the Lord!!!

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--Final Chapter--"To My Father, and Your Father"
Post by: Richard Myers on December 19, 2017, 06:59:14 AM

Amen!!  The gospel is to be presented with great joy, as it is the truth unto everlasting life. I love this chapter! It is such a blessing that removes all "unbelief." What a compassionate God we serve!

When Jesus ascended to heaven, the angels wished to worship Him, but He held them back. Why? Because in order for us to have salvation, He has to suffer for each and every one of our sins. What a thought! What grace!!

     But He waves them back. Not yet; He cannot now receive the coronet of glory and the royal robe. He enters into the presence of His Father. He points to His wounded head, the pierced side, the marred feet; He lifts His hands, bearing the print of nails. He points to the tokens of His triumph; He presents to God the wave sheaf, those raised with Him as representatives of that great multitude who shall come forth from the grave at His second coming. He approaches the Father, with whom there is joy over one sinner that repents; who rejoices over one with singing. Before the foundations of the earth were laid, the Father and the Son had united in a covenant to redeem man if he should be overcome by Satan. They had clasped Their hands in a solemn pledge that Christ should become the surety for the human race. This pledge Christ has fulfilled. When upon the cross He cried out, "It is finished," He addressed the Father. The compact had been fully carried out. Now He declares: Father, it is finished. I have done Thy will, O My God. I have completed the work of redemption. If Thy justice is satisfied, "I will that they also, whom Thou hast given Me, be with Me where I am." John 19:30; 17:24.
     The voice of God is heard proclaiming that justice is satisfied. Satan is vanquished. Christ's toiling, struggling ones on earth are "accepted in the Beloved." Ephesians 1:6. Before the heavenly angels and the representatives of unfallen worlds, they are declared justified. Where He is, there His church shall be. "Mercy and truth are met together; righteousness and peace have kissed each other." Psalm 85:10. The Father's arms encircle His Son, and the word is given, "Let all the angels of God worship Him." Hebrews 1:6.
     With joy unutterable, rulers and principalities and powers acknowledge the supremacy of the Prince of life. The angel host prostrate themselves before Him, while the glad shout fills all the courts of heaven, "Worthy is the Lamb that was slain to receive power, and riches, and wisdom, and strength, and honor, and glory, and blessing." Revelation 5:12.
     Songs of triumph mingle with the music from angel harps, till heaven seems to overflow with joy and praise. Love has conquered. The lost is found. Heaven rings with voices in lofty strains proclaiming, "Blessing, and honor, and glory, and power, be unto Him that sitteth upon the throne, and unto the Lamb forever and ever." Revelation 5:13.

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--Final Chapter--"To My Father, and Your Father"
Post by: Dorine on March 15, 2018, 04:31:02 AM

It's hard to believe that we have come to the end of another reading of "The Desire of Ages". Each reading brings such blessings as we behold the loveliness of Jesus. As we have watched Him ascend into heaven through today's chapter I am filled with such gratitude for all He has done to make salvation available to each one of us.  What a future we have to look forward to. We are soon to be united with Jesus and all of heaven. Sin will never again arise. How my heart longs for that day. So until that day......

"From that scene of heavenly joy, there comes back to us on earth the echo of Christ's own wonderful words, "I ascend unto My Father, and your Father; and to My God, and your God." John 20:17. The family of heaven and the family of earth are one. For us our Lord ascended, and for us He lives. "Wherefore He is able also to save them to the uttermost that come unto God by Him, seeing He ever liveth to make intercession for them." Hebrews 7:25. "

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--Final Chapter--"To My Father, and Your Father"
Post by: Pastor Sean Brizendine on March 15, 2018, 05:37:17 AM

Amen, dear sister Dorine! We have heaven to look forward to, and even in this life, what makes each moment so meaningful and beautiful is that we can have an ever-increasing, ever-broadening, ever-deepening living connection with Jesus that brings us joy in each trial in the heavenward path of His choosing! I love The Desire of Ages, and I am already looking forward to starting chapter 1 again tomorrow! I pray that those of you who are reading with us and not yet posting will PLEASE JOIN US and share how Jesus is blessing you as you behold His infinite loveliness of character! The more we share and give, the more we receive to impart to others! Let us rejoice that this is the very thing we were counseled to do in learning to spend a "thoughtful hour" upon the life of Jesus!!!!!

“When the disciples went back to Jerusalem, the people looked upon them with amazement. After the trial and crucifixion of Christ, it had been thought that they would appear downcast and ashamed. Their enemies expected to see upon their faces an expression of sorrow and defeat. Instead of this there was only gladness and triumph. Their faces were aglow with a happiness not born of earth. They did not mourn over disappointed hopes, but were full of praise and thanksgiving to God. With rejoicing they told the wonderful story of Christ’s resurrection and His ascension to heaven, and their testimony was received by many.” – {The Desire of Ages, page 832, paragraph 3}

Have you gone through trials? Does the world around you expect you to be sad? When I lost my parents, I did go through a valley of depression and trial, and I know that the disciples were deeply tried at the crucifixion of Jesus Christ. But the trial and pain is but I pledge of the joy, exultation and healing that comes from beholding the loveliness of Jesus continually!!! I am truly deeply happy, because I have an ever–living Savior abiding in my heart by faith! He sheds voice through my life all the fruits of His Spirit—not one can be missing as long as I by faith am trusting that I am already seated with Him in heavenly places!
I am experiencing the fruition of these words: “Strengthened with all might, according to His glorious power, unto all patience and longsuffering with joyfulness; giving thanks unto the Father, which hath made us meet to be partakers of the inheritance of the saints in light: Who hath delivered us from the power of darkness, and hath translated us into the kingdom of his dear Son” (Colossians 1:11-13).

Did you catch that? He "hath translated us"!!! When the 144,000 ascend to heaven with Jesus and all the resurrected saints, it is simply because they have already been translated by faith to have a heavenly experience upon the earth here and now!!

Will you join me in this experience?

Hallelujah!!!!!!!

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--Final Chapter--"To My Father, and Your Father"
Post by: Richard Myers on March 15, 2018, 06:19:41 AM

Amen Pastor Sean! I too was impressed with the fact that we have been given a glimpse into heaven. We too, have a wonderful testimony to share with the world about Christ. What a revelation we have been given! "With rejoicing they told the wonderful story of Christ’s resurrection and His ascension to heaven, and their testimony was received by many.”

I love so much to hear the exaltation of Christ by the Angels as they receive Him back into heaven!

     All heaven was waiting to welcome the Saviour to the celestial courts. As He ascended, He led the way, and the multitude of captives set free at His resurrection followed. The heavenly host, with shouts and acclamations of praise and celestial song, attended the joyous train.
     As they drew near to the city of God, the challenge is given by the escorting angels,--


                 "Lift up your heads, O ye gates;
                  And be ye lift up, ye everlasting doors;
                  And the King of glory shall come in."
     Joyfully the waiting sentinels respond,--

          "Who is this King of glory?"
     This they say, not because they know not who He is, but because they would hear the answer of exalted praise,--


                "The Lord strong and mighty,
                 The Lord mighty in battle!
                 Lift up your heads, O ye gates;
                 Even lift them up, ye everlasting doors;
                 And the King of glory shall come in."

     Again is heard the challenge, "Who is this King of glory?" for the angels never weary of hearing His name exalted. The escorting angels make reply,--


                 "The Lord of hosts;
                  He is the King of glory." Psalm 24:7-10.

     Then the portals of the city of God are opened wide, and the angelic throng sweep through the gates amid a burst of rapturous music.
     There is the throne, and around it the rainbow of promise. There are cherubim and seraphim. The commanders of the angel hosts, the sons of God, the representatives of the unfallen worlds, are assembled. The heavenly council before which Lucifer had accused God and His Son, the representatives of those sinless realms over which Satan had thought to establish his dominion,--all are there to welcome the Redeemer. They are eager to celebrate His triumph and to glorify their King.

Who are we that we should be the object of His great love!! That He would leave heaven to come to this dark spot in the universe to suffer and die on our account!! What a testimony we have to share!!!

And yes, dear Sister Dorine, how we long to be with our Lord in our heavenly home!! "The family of heaven and the family of earth are one. For us our Lord ascended, and for us He lives. We are one with Savior and Elder Brother, and He longs to have us with Him in Spirit today and in heaven tomorrow!! He lives for us!! Let us live for Him!!

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--Final Chapter--"To My Father, and Your Father"
Post by: Pastor Sean Brizendine on June 10, 2018, 02:57:51 AM

I love to behold Jesus, and by faith grasp the reality of heaven! He ascended in the form of humanity to be our Intercessor, and He is our King! Behold Him who was crucified ascended to the heavenly throne, and know that in Him we find access to our Father. Through sincere prayer we are brought into communion with the mind of the Infinite, and have the exceeding privilege of being made partakers of the divine nature through receiving the grace abundantly poured out to us in His word! As I travel today to get ready to set up for Michigan Camp Meeting, I am so happy to keep my focus on Jesus and I pray that He continues to reveal more of His exceeding loveliness of character that transforms us from glory to glory, from character to character! Heaven is a wonderful place to have our minds dwell!!

"There is the throne, and around it the rainbow of promise. There are cherubim and seraphim. The commanders of the angel hosts, the sons of God, the representatives of the unfallen worlds, are assembled. The heavenly council before which Lucifer had accused God and His Son, the representatives of those sinless realms over which Satan had thought to establish his dominion,--all are there to welcome the Redeemer. They are eager to celebrate His triumph and to glorify their King."  {The Desire of Ages, page 834, paragraph 2}
     "But He waves them back. Not yet; He cannot now receive the coronet of glory and the royal robe. He enters into the presence of His Father. He points to His wounded head, the pierced side, the marred feet; He lifts His hands, bearing the print of nails. He points to the tokens of His triumph; He presents to God the wave sheaf, those raised with Him as representatives of that great multitude who shall come forth from the grave at His second coming. He approaches the Father, with whom there is joy over one sinner that repents; who rejoices over one with singing. Before the foundations of the earth were laid, the Father and the Son had united in a covenant to redeem man if he should be overcome by Satan. They had clasped Their hands in a solemn pledge that Christ should become the surety for the human race. This pledge Christ has fulfilled. When upon the cross He cried out, 'It is finished,' He addressed the Father. The compact had been fully carried out. Now He declares: Father, it is finished. I have done Thy will, O My God. I have completed the work of redemption. If Thy justice is satisfied, 'I will that they also, whom Thou hast given Me, be with Me where I am.' John 19:30; 17:24."  {The Desire of Ages, page 834, paragraph 3}
     "The voice of God is heard proclaiming that justice is satisfied. Satan is vanquished. Christ's toiling, struggling ones on earth are 'accepted in the Beloved.' Ephesians 1:6. Before the heavenly angels and the representatives of unfallen worlds, they are declared justified. Where He is, there His church shall be. 'Mercy and truth are met together; righteousness and peace have kissed each other.' Psalm 85:10. The Father's arms encircle His Son, and the word is given, 'Let all the angels of God worship Him.' Hebrews 1:6.   {The Desire of Ages, page 834, paragraph 3}

This is such an amazing scene to behold by faith. Christ, when at the tomb from which He had just arisen 40 days prior had given this message:

"But now in His own familiar voice Jesus said to her, 'Mary.' Now she knew that it was not a stranger who was addressing her, and turning she saw before her the living Christ. In her joy she forgot that He had been crucified. Springing toward Him, as if to embrace His feet, she said, 'Rabboni.' But Christ raised His hand, saying, Detain Me not; 'for I am not yet ascended to My Father: but go to My brethren, and say unto them, I ascend unto My Father, and your Father; and to My God, and your God.' And Mary went her way to the disciples with the joyful message." {The Desire of Ages, page 790, paragraph 2}

Now catch this amazing reality of the risk the Godhead took--as Jesus Himself did not yet know His sacrifice was accepted just after He arose on the morning of the resurrection:

"Jesus refused to receive the homage of His people until He had the assurance that His sacrifice was accepted by the Father. He ascended to the heavenly courts, and from God Himself heard the assurance that His atonement for the sins of men had been ample, that through His blood all might gain eternal life. The Father ratified the covenant made with Christ, that He would receive repentant and obedient men, and would love them even as He loves His Son. Christ was to complete His work, and fulfill His pledge to 'make a man more precious than fine gold; even a man than the golden wedge of Ophir.' Isa. 13:12. All power in heaven and on earth was given to the Prince of Life, and He returned to His followers in a world of sin, that He might impart to them of His power and glory." {The Desire of Ages, page 790, paragraph 3}

Having this private interview in the Godhead, Jesus would then return to the world to lift the disciples' faith and prepare them for His glorious ascension 40 days later:

"While the Saviour was in God's presence, receiving gifts for His church, the disciples thought upon His empty tomb, and mourned and wept. The day that was a day of rejoicing to all heaven was to the disciples a day of uncertainty, confusion, and perplexity. Their unbelief in the testimony of the women gives evidence of how low their faith had sunk. The news of Christ's resurrection was so different from what they had anticipated that they could not believe it. It was too good to be true, they thought. They had heard so much of the doctrines and the so-called scientific theories of the Sadducees that the impression made on their minds in regard to the resurrection was vague. They scarcely knew what the resurrection from the dead could mean. They were unable to take in the great subject." {The Desire of Ages, page 790, paragraph 4}

The beautiful truth of how these two accounts is reconciled was made beautifully clear to me just this last Tuesday in answer to earnest prayer with a dear brother in the Lord. When Christ ascended with the risen saints, the scene of when he first went to heaven to know that the sacrifice was accepted seemed to be the same event. But it could not be. There was a beautiful reason Jesus first ascended--it was the first time since He had taken humanity that He actually came into the Father's physical presence! What a reunion for the Godhead, as the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit are once again united after Christ's sojourn. But in the first interview, Christ receives the assurance that His sacrifice is accepted, thus preparing the way for the public experience of bringing a host of risen saints and having all the angels in heaven publicly worship Him. When Jesus first went to heaven, it was for the sake of the Godhead; when Jesus next ascended to heaven, it was for a public worship and coronation service, and this was authenticated by the gift of Pentecost, for Christ's enthronement meant that all power was to be poured upon His church! I just love how God reveals His beauty of character to us!! Praise God for such a Savior!!

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--Final Chapter--"To My Father, and Your Father"
Post by: Richard Myers on June 11, 2018, 10:27:55 PM

Amen Pastor Sean. What a reunion that was in heaven. Imagin how our heavenly Father felt when he  wrapped His arms around His Son!

   The voice of God is heard proclaiming that justice is satisfied. Satan is vanquished. Christ's toiling, struggling ones on earth are "accepted in the Beloved." Ephesians 1:6. Before the heavenly angels and the representatives of unfallen worlds, they are declared justified. Where He is, there His church shall be. "Mercy and truth are met together; righteousness and peace have kissed each other." Psalm 85:10. The Father's arms encircle His Son, and the word is given, "Let all the angels of God worship Him." Hebrews 1:6. 

We need to understand what these words mean. "Mercy and truth are met together."  It is in Christ that this is true. At the cross mercy, forgiveness for  sin, met truth  which is justice. In the suffering and death of Jesus we see demonstrated both mercy  and  justice. Christ's suffering  reveals  He   has paid the price for our sins,  so that He  may forgive us. Justice is also seen in that He did not just wave His hand  and say we are forgiven, but rather He suffered for every sin that should ever be, that we might live. What a God we serve!!!

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--Final Chapter--"To My Father, and Your Father"
Post by: Pastor Sean Brizendine on September 05, 2018, 07:32:45 AM

What a scene to contemplate--the ascension of Christ to the heavenly courts, taking with Him those who were raised with Him when He came forth from the grave a conqueror of death! We have a risen Savior, one who has gone to heaven to stand in God's presence for us! Jesus was first interested in the risen saints having a place with Him in heaven, knowing that they were accepted before the Father because of His sacrifice and the transformation wrought in them by the Holy Spirit. What a wondrous thought! We also will soon be home with God in heaven as we cooperate daily with His saving grace that transforms sinners revealing the works of the flesh into redeemed saints who bear all of the fruits of the Spirit without one missing! What a glorious plan of redemption! May we keep our eyes of faith fixed on Jesus, for He is soon to return in glory!

"But He waves them back. Not yet; He cannot now receive the coronet of glory and the royal robe. He enters into the presence of His Father. He points to His wounded head, the pierced side, the marred feet; He lifts His hands, bearing the print of nails. He points to the tokens of His triumph; He presents to God the wave sheaf, those raised with Him as representatives of that great multitude who shall come forth from the grave at His second coming. He approaches the Father, with whom there is joy over one sinner that repents; who rejoices over one with singing. Before the foundations of the earth were laid, the Father and the Son had united in a covenant to redeem man if he should be overcome by Satan. They had clasped Their hands in a solemn pledge that Christ should become the surety for the human race. This pledge Christ has fulfilled. When upon the cross He cried out, 'It is finished,' He addressed the Father. The compact had been fully carried out. Now He declares: Father, it is finished. I have done Thy will, O My God. I have completed the work of redemption. If Thy justice is satisfied, 'I will that they also, whom Thou hast given Me, be with Me where I am.' John 19:30; 17:24." {The Desire of Ages, page 834, paragraph 2}

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--Final Chapter--"To My Father, and Your Father"
Post by: Richard Myers on September 05, 2018, 07:58:52 AM

Amen! Oh how I love Jesus!!  Because He first loved me!! What love! And, Oh how I love our heavenly Father!!

    "Mercy and truth are met together; righteousness and peace have kissed each other." Psalm 85:10. The Father's arms encircle His Son, and the word is given, "Let all the angels of God worship Him." Hebrews 1:6.
     With joy unutterable, rulers and principalities and powers acknowledge the supremacy of the Prince of life. The angel host prostrate themselves before Him, while the glad shout fills all the courts of heaven, "Worthy is the Lamb that was slain to receive power, and riches, and wisdom, and strength, and honor, and glory, and blessing." Revelation 5:12.
     Songs of triumph mingle with the music from angel harps, till heaven seems to overflow with joy and praise. Love has conquered. The lost is found. Heaven rings with voices in lofty strains proclaiming, "Blessing, and honor, and glory, and power, be unto Him that sitteth upon the throne, and unto the Lamb forever and ever."

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--Final Chapter--"To My Father, and Your Father"
Post by: Pastor Sean Brizendine on December 01, 2018, 02:42:56 AM

You and I do not know the future--but we can know through an intimate experience of surrendered trust the One who DOES KNOW the future, and His perfect love can cast out all fear as He guides us in the unfolding of His plans that are higher than our highest thoughts can reach!

What a joy to contemplate Jesus' ascension to heaven, and the blessed assurance of the Holy Spirit who prepares us for His soon return!

"The disciples no longer had any distrust of the future. They knew that Jesus was in heaven, and that His sympathies were with them still. They knew that they had a friend at the throne of God, and they were eager to present their requests to the Father in the name of Jesus. In solemn awe they bowed in prayer, repeating the assurance, 'Whatsoever ye shall ask the Father in My name, He will give it you. Hitherto have ye asked nothing in My name: ask, and ye shall receive, that your joy may be full.' John 16:23, 24. They extended the hand of faith higher and higher, with the mighty argument, 'It is Christ that died, yea rather, that is risen again, who is even at the right hand of God, who also maketh intercession for us.' Romans 8:34. And Pentecost brought them fullness of joy in the presence of the Comforter, even as Christ had promised." {The Desire of Ages, page 833, paragraph 1}

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--Final Chapter--"To My Father, and Your Father"
Post by: JimB on December 01, 2018, 06:45:32 AM

The voice of God is heard proclaiming that justice is satisfied. Satan is vanquished. Christ's toiling, struggling ones on earth are "accepted in the Beloved." Ephesians 1:6. Before the heavenly angels and the representatives of unfallen worlds, they are declared justified. Where He is, there His church shall be. "Mercy and truth are met together; righteousness and peace have kissed each other." Psalm 85:10. The Father's arms encircle His Son, and the word is given, "Let all the angels of God worship Him." Hebrews 1:6.
     With joy unutterable, rulers and principalities and powers acknowledge the supremacy of the Prince of life. The angel host prostrate themselves before Him, while the glad shout fills all the courts of heaven, "Worthy is the Lamb that was slain to receive power, and riches, and wisdom, and strength, and honor, and glory, and blessing." Revelation 5:12.
     Songs of triumph mingle with the music from angel harps, till heaven seems to overflow with joy and praise. Love has conquered. The lost is found. Heaven rings with voices in lofty strains proclaiming, "Blessing, and honor, and glory, and power, be unto Him that sitteth upon the throne, and unto the Lamb forever and ever." Revelation 5:13.

What a description! Just makes me want to be there with the angels singing and shouting His glorious name!. Now move forward in time not long from now when Christ will again return to Heaven. Only this time with the redeemed ones from earth. ransomed for the rest of eternity! We will then be able to join our voices with the angel's voice. But then as we praise God the angels will have to be silent. Why you may ask?? Well... here is why...

Holy, holy, is what the angels sing,
And I expect to help them make the courts of Heaven ring;
But when I sing redemption’s story, they will fold their wings,
For angels never felt the joys that our salvation brings.

Can you image... just imagine what it will be like. To be there in person with Christ and the Father and your guardian angel! Here is a description that brings joy to my heart.

Rev 7:9-12  After this I beheld, and, lo, a great multitude, which no man could number, of all nations, and kindreds, and people, and tongues, stood before the throne, and before the Lamb, clothed with white robes, and palms in their hands;  (10)  And cried with a loud voice, saying, Salvation to our God which sitteth upon the throne, and unto the Lamb.  (11)  And all the angels stood round about the throne, and about the elders and the four beasts, and fell before the throne on their faces, and worshipped God,  (12)  Saying, Amen: Blessing, and glory, and wisdom, and thanksgiving, and honour, and power, and might, be unto our God for ever and ever. Amen.

Maybe the Father Himself shall join us in singing??

Zep 3:17  The LORD thy God in the midst of thee is mighty; he will save, he will rejoice over thee with joy; he will rest in his love, he will joy over thee with singing.

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--Final Chapter--"To My Father, and Your Father"
Post by: Dorine on December 01, 2018, 06:51:27 AM

"Christ had sojourned in the world for thirty-three years; He had endured its scorn, insult, and mockery; He had been rejected and crucified. Now, when about to ascend to His throne of glory,--as He reviews the ingratitude of the people He came to save,--will He not withdraw from them His sympathy and love? Will not His affections be centered upon that realm where He is appreciated, and where sinless angels wait to do His bidding? No; His promise to those loved ones whom He leaves on earth is, "I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world." Matthew 28:20."

This promise includes you and me. Soon we will be reunited with our faithful loved ones as we ascend to that glorious city of God to never part again. It's important to keep this vision before us as we face the events yet to come. He will never leave us or forsake us but give us the strength to endure as it is needed.  Then we too will be ushered through those pearly gates to spend eternity with our Lord and Saviour and all the heavenly hosts.

I'm sure this chapter has stirred our hearts this morning with happy anticipation of what is to come.

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--Final Chapter--"To My Father, and Your Father"
Post by: Richard Myers on December 01, 2018, 03:03:42 PM

Amen!!! What rejoicing there was! What rejoicing there is!! And, yes, imagine standing in the presence of God!!!  The angels loved to see Jesus return to heaven. Imagine the joy in our heavenly Father's heart as He placed His arms around His Son!!Would He do that for you.....and me?  After risking His So, I think so as unworthy as we are! This is the character of our God!! Wonder O heavens and be astonished O Earth. Herein is love!

What a message that has been entrusted to us!! Shall we tell the world of His love? Amen!!

     All heaven was waiting to welcome the Saviour to the celestial courts. As He ascended, He led the way, and the multitude of captives set free at His resurrection followed. The heavenly host, with shouts and acclamations of praise and celestial song, attended the joyous train.
     As they drew near to the city of God, the challenge is given by the escorting angels,--


                 "Lift up your heads, O ye gates;
                  And be ye lift up, ye everlasting doors;
                  And the King of glory shall come in."
     Joyfully the waiting sentinels respond,--

          "Who is this King of glory?"
     This they say, not because they know not who He is, but because they would hear the answer of exalted praise,--


                "The Lord strong and mighty,
                 The Lord mighty in battle!
                 Lift up your heads, O ye gates;
                 Even lift them up, ye everlasting doors;
                 And the King of glory shall come in."

     Again is heard the challenge, "Who is this King of glory?" for the angels never weary of hearing His name exalted. The escorting angels make reply,--


                 "The Lord of hosts;
                  He is the King of glory."

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--Final Chapter--"To My Father, and Your Father"
Post by: Pastor Sean Brizendine on February 26, 2019, 05:27:52 AM

Expectations--we all have them. As we try to contemplate what it was like for the people who had seen the disciples of Jesus endure the experience of seeing their Lord crucified as if He were the vilest criminal, there were expectations in many minds as to how these disciples would be acting following this experience. But there was a very important event that changed EVERYTHING. The resurrection of Christ shows that He bore and atoned for the sins of the world! Justice is satisfied! Christ is risen, and His ascension to heaven is a fulfillment of His promise to go and prepare a place for us. And HE WILL COME AGAIN!! Hallelujah!!

So let me get personal. You may have gone through some great trials in your life. I know I have. Losing my parents, struggling with bipolar disorder (from which I have been healed by the Lord for 8 years), and the experiences of life can at times lead people around us to have "expectations" of who or what we will be. But God is so much bigger than all of this! He came to restore His image in us, and we can look upon Jesus and experience a joy and happiness that does not come from this world--it comes from a completely surrendered will to Jesus whose grace renews the heart and mind, imbuing us with all of the fruits of the Spirit so that not one is missing! Let us live above the expectations of this world, and live in the divine ideal God has for us that prepares us for the better world--even heaven itself and the new earth that He will make!!

 "When the disciples went back to Jerusalem, the people looked upon them with amazement. After the trial and crucifixion of Christ, it had been thought that they would appear downcast and ashamed. Their enemies expected to see upon their faces an expression of sorrow and defeat. Instead of this there was only gladness and triumph. Their faces were aglow with a happiness not born of earth. They did not mourn over disappointed hopes, but were full of praise and thanksgiving to God. With rejoicing they told the wonderful story of Christ's resurrection and His ascension to heaven, and their testimony was received by many." {The Desire of Ages, page 832, paragraph 3}

You and I have a testimony. God desires us to share with others what Christ has done for us! As we share of His loveliness of character, and how we saw our sinfulness and need of Jesus, and found in Him the courage and strength to walk in His light of love, we have something to share that can and will encourage others heavenward! What a joy that we are upon this dark speck of a world to bear witness to His grace that has power to change confused and hurting sinners into happy, peaceful and obedient saints who delight to do God's will!

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--Final Chapter--"To My Father, and Your Father"
Post by: Richard Myers on February 26, 2019, 05:42:10 AM

Amen Pastor Sean. When we feed Upon Jesus, and see His grace daily, how can we not love Him and obey him? In today's reading we see how much Jesus loves the sinner. As he was preparing to leave this world, he was in Gethsemane and remembering what had happened the night before His crucifixion. He remembered the unrequited love, especially that of His disciples who had forsaken Him in the hour of His humiliation.

The Apostle John writes  "I say these things that you sin  not, but if  you sin we have an advocate before the Father Jesus Christ." And if we sin, let us remember the love that Jesus had for his disciples after they had forsaken Him.

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--Final Chapter--"To My Father, and Your Father"
Post by: Dorine on February 26, 2019, 06:56:27 AM

"From that scene of heavenly joy, there comes back to us on earth the echo of Christ's own wonderful words, "I ascend unto My Father, and your Father; and to My God, and your God." John 20:17. The family of heaven and the family of earth are one. For us our Lord ascended, and for us He lives. "Wherefore He is able also to save them to the uttermost that come unto God by Him, seeing He ever liveth to make intercession for them." Hebrews 7:25."

We have once again come to the final chapter in the Life of Jesus. Each reading brings to light deeper understanding and realization of what God has done for sinful erring humanity. But it doesn't end there. Christ is ministering in the sanctuary above as our mediator right now. He is preparing a place for us that we may live with Him throughout eternity. He is creating in us new hearts that will be fit for entrance into our heavenly home. Are we willing to accept Jesus as not only our Saviour but our Lord as well.   

As Pastor Sean posted, we all should have a testimony that will be a blessing to someone but only if we share it. It doesn't have to be some dramatic event in our eyes but every heart that turns from a life of self love to a life of full surrender to Christ has a beautiful testimony, for the things they once loved they now hate and the  things they once hated they now love. That in itself is a miracle worth sharing. We are about to embark on the greatest journey ever taken. I want to be part of that great multitude that will inherit the purified earth.

(1Co 2:9)  But as it is written, Eye hath not seen, nor ear heard, neither have entered into the heart of man, the things which God hath prepared for them that love him.

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--Final Chapter--"To My Father, and Your Father"
Post by: Beacon on February 26, 2019, 07:25:10 AM

 "When upon the cross He cried out, "It is finished," He addressed the Father. The compact had been fully carried out. Now He declares: Father, it is finished. I have done Thy will, O My God. I have completed the work of redemption. If Thy justice is satisfied, "I will that they also, whom Thou hast given Me, be with Me where I am."" John 19:30; 17:24.

What wonderful, reassuring words " IT IS FINISHED " & The plan for our salvation has now become our surety . Praise the Lord [/u]

 "The voice of God is heard proclaiming that justice is satisfied. Satan is vanquished. Christ's toiling, struggling ones on earth are "accepted in the Beloved." Ephesians 1:6. Before the heavenly angels and the representatives of unfallen worlds, they are declared justified. Where He is, there His church shall be.

Our guarantee that sin will never again come to God's universe again is completed ---" Satan is Vanquished "

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--Final Chapter--"To My Father, and Your Father"
Post by: Beacon on May 23, 2019, 09:05:05 PM

"The voice of God is heard proclaiming that justice is satisfied. Satan is vanquished. Christ's toiling, struggling ones on earth are 'accepted in the Beloved.' Ephesians 1:6. Before the heavenly angels and the representatives of unfallen worlds, they are declared justified. Where He is, there His church shall be. 'Mercy and truth are met together; righteousness and peace have kissed each other.' Psalm 85:10. The Father's arms encircle His Son, and the word is given, 'Let all the angels of God worship Him.' Hebrews 1:6."

" Satan is vanquished" He is a defeated foe!! Those who surrender to Jesus NOW can rest assured that if they remain faithful in their earthly journey, they also will join the heavenly throng when Jesus comes to take His children home. There will be no more suffering, pain and sorrow. No more death!! All the trials of this life are behind them -- FOREVER MORE " What joy it will be to be with Jesus. When we turn our eyes upon Jesus the things of earth will grow strangely dim in the Light of His Glory and Grace.

THANK YOU JESUS FOR THE AWESOME PLAN OF REDEMPTION EXECUTED FOR PLANET EARTH SO THAT ONCE AGAIN THE UNIVERSE WILL PULSE IN HARMONY WITH IT'S CREATOR AND SIN WILL " NEVER RISE AGAIN" John 3:16 SAYS .." For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life."

What temporary sinful pleasure would we, you and I , exchange for what Jesus has made possible ?? Let us today renew our commitment to Jesus and by His grace be ready to celebrate with Him an eternity that will be beyond our imagination. [/color][/b]
 

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--Final Chapter--"To My Father, and Your Father"
Post by: Dorine on May 24, 2019, 07:17:21 AM

  "The disciples no longer had any distrust of the future. They knew that Jesus was in heaven, and that His sympathies were with them still. They knew that they had a friend at the throne of God, and they were eager to present their requests to the Father in the name of Jesus. In solemn awe they bowed in prayer, repeating the assurance, "Whatsoever ye shall ask the Father in My name, He will give it you. Hitherto have ye asked nothing in My name: ask, and ye shall receive, that your joy may be full." John 16:23, 24."

I am filled this morning with such joy and confidence in God's word because this promise is for all who come to Jesus in humility, love and surrender. He will transform our lives just as He did the disciples. We too can know that we have a Friend at the throne of God presenting our requests to the Father. I praise God this morning that Jesus is soon coming again to take us to our heavenly home that He is now preparing for us. 

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--Final Chapter--"To My Father, and Your Father"
Post by: Pastor Sean Brizendine on May 24, 2019, 07:26:02 AM

Amen, Brother Beacon and Sister Dorine! We can rejoice in the realization that Christ is now in heaven, that Satan is a defeated foe, and that by a living faith surrender to Christ we are justified by grace through faith to become partakers of His divine nature, and to finally inherit our heavenly home!

"Christ had sojourned in the world for thirty-three years; He had endured its scorn, insult, and mockery; He had been rejected and crucified. Now, when about to ascend to His throne of glory,--as He reviews the ingratitude of the people He came to save,--will He not withdraw from them His sympathy and love? Will not His affections be centered upon that realm where He is appreciated, and where sinless angels wait to do His bidding? No; His promise to those loved ones whom He leaves on earth is, 'I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world.' Matthew 28:20." {The Desire of Ages, page 830, paragraph 2} 

Jesus is with us to the end! No need to fear for the future as we keep our eyes on Jesus and remember what He has done for us! As we look forward to His soon return, we can rejoice that He gives us the privilege of sharing the everlasting gospel of His grace that has the power to transform sinners into saints, bringing forth in our lives the genuine fruits of conversion: love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, meekness, goodness, faith and temperance. As long as Christ has the throne of the heart, and the Holy Spirit abides in us, all of the these traits of the divine nature will be manifest in our lives--not one will be missing! We can rejoice in our earthly sojourn even as Jesus did, for we are bound for the promised land!!!

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--Final Chapter--"To My Father, and Your Father"
Post by: Richard Myers on May 24, 2019, 09:53:00 PM

As there always is, there is much light to glean from this last chapter in our reading. As I read what has been shared, we see two main themes that illustrates what is so very important to God and the world above, therefore is so very important for us to understand. The suffering and death of Christ was not just for sinners on this Earth, but for the universe also. Brother Beacon has pointed out that there was a need for the universe to see that in all that God has done, justice was satisfied in the suffering and death of our Savior. "The voice of God is heard proclaiming that justice is satisfied. Satan is vanquished." The "great controversy" between Christ and Satan involved more than our salvation.

Sister Dorine saw that the work of salvation done for sinners will indeed bring great reward to all who love Jesus supremely. He will come back for us. "We too can know that we have a Friend at the throne of God presenting our requests to the Father. I praise God this morning that Jesus is soon coming again to take us to our heavenly home that He is now preparing for us."

And Pastor Sean presents both the victory in the "great controversy" for Satan is defeated, and the power of grace revealed at the cross and ratified in heaven that will transform sinners into saints who will then live for eternity with God. Such a wonderful story!

And I like the revelation that two exalted angels instead of witnessing the grand occasion of celebrating the victory won by Christ over Satan, they had been with Christ throughout His sojourn on this Earth, they stayed behind to work with those who could be saved to live in a world without  sin, sorrow, suffering, and death. Both of these themes are clearly presented not only in this closing message, but throughout the Desire of Ages! What brilliant light we have to share with a world soon to perish!

For those who have been reading along with us, we invite you to register if you have not already and join in this wonderful experience of learning and sharing that which we daily behold on the life of our Savior Jesus Christ. email administrator@remnant-online.com  and we will get you registered so you can share what Jesus is revealing to you! And by beholding our Savior a thoughtful hour each day you will be transformed into His character (2 Cor. 3:18). It is a promise indeed!


     These angels were of the company that had been waiting in a shining cloud to escort Jesus to His heavenly home. The most exalted of the angel throng, they were the two who had come to the tomb at Christ's resurrection, and they had been with Him throughout His life on earth. With eager desire all heaven had waited for the end of His tarrying in a world marred by the curse of sin. The time had now come for the heavenly universe to receive their King. Did not the two angels long to join the throng that welcomed Jesus? But in sympathy and love for those whom He had left, they waited to give them comfort. "Are they not all ministering spirits, sent forth to minister for them who shall be heirs of salvation?" Hebrews 1:14.
     Christ had ascended to heaven in the form of humanity. The disciples had beheld the cloud receive Him. The same Jesus who had walked and talked and prayed with them; who had broken bread with them; who had been with them in their boats on the lake; and who had that very day toiled with them up the ascent of Olivet,--the same Jesus had now gone to share His Father's throne. And the angels had assured them that the very One whom they had seen go up into heaven, would come again even as He had ascended. He will come "with clouds; and every eye shall see Him." "The Lord Himself shall descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the Archangel, and with the trump of God: and the dead in Christ shall rise." "The Son of man shall come in His glory, and all the holy angels with Him, then shall He sit upon the throne of His glory." Revelation 1:7; 1 Thessalonians 4:16; Matthew 25:31. Thus will be fulfilled the Lord's own promise to His disciples: "If I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto Myself; that where I am, there ye may be also." John 14:3. Well might the disciples rejoice in the hope of their Lord's return.

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--Final Chapter--"To My Father, and Your Father"
Post by: Richard Myers on November 10, 2019, 09:22:12 AM

When Christ hung on the cross the disciples they doubted that Jesus was the Son of God. They feared the same would happen to them. But, when Jesus came from the grave and met with them, all this changed.

     When the disciples went back to Jerusalem, the people looked upon them with amazement. After the trial and crucifixion of Christ, it had been thought that they would appear downcast and ashamed. Their enemies expected to see upon their faces an expression of sorrow and defeat. Instead of this there was only gladness and triumph. Their faces were aglow with a happiness not born of earth. They did not mourn over disappointed hopes, but were full of praise and thanksgiving to God. With rejoicing they told the wonderful story of Christ's resurrection and His ascension to heaven, and their testimony was received by many.

How is it with us? Do we rejoice knowing that Christ has won the battle for us? Are we on fire for the Lord as they were? Do we rejoice in telling the wonderful story of Christ's resurrection? Are we prepared for a time of trouble such as never was? They were and they spread the gospel message everywhere they went. Let us do the same.

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--Final Chapter--"To My Father, and Your Father"
Post by: Beacon on November 10, 2019, 05:41:28 PM

"The Father's arms encircle His Son, and the word is given, "Let all the angels of God worship Him." Hebrews 1:6. With joy unutterable, rulers and principalities and powers acknowledge the supremacy of the Prince of life. The angel host prostrate themselves before Him, while the glad shout fills all the courts of heaven, "Worthy is the Lamb that was slain to receive power, and riches, and wisdom, and strength, and honor, and glory, and blessing." Revelation 5:12. Songs of triumph mingle with the music from angel harps, till heaven seems to overflow with joy and praise. Love has conquered."[/u[/size][/color]]

THANK YOU JESUS SOO VERY MUCH FOR BEING WILLING TO BE OUR REDEEMER - MAY EACH OF OUR LIVES REVEAL OUR THANKFULNESS EACH DAY WE SERVE YOU ON PLANET EARTH AND THROUGHOUT ALL ETERNITY.

WHAT A DAY THAT WILL BE WHEN MY JESUS I WILL SEE AND HE TAKES ME BY THE HAND AND LEADS ME THROUGH THE PROMISED LAND -- WHAT A DAY--GLORIOUS DAY THAT WILL BE.

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--Final Chapter--"To My Father, and Your Father"
Post by: Dorine on November 11, 2019, 08:56:26 AM

  From that scene of heavenly joy, there comes back to us on earth the echo of Christ's own wonderful words, "I ascend unto My Father, and your Father; and to My God, and your God." John 20:17. The family of heaven and the family of earth are one. For us our Lord ascended, and for us He lives. "Wherefore He is able also to save them to the uttermost that come unto God by Him, seeing He ever liveth to make intercession for them." Hebrews 7:25.

What a scene of grace and glory.  It makes me so homesick for heaven. Soon Jesus will return and carry us on angel wings to our heavenly home. Sound like a fantasy story? Sound too good to be true? I believe it because God said it and He has proven Himself to be trusted over and over. The more I read of His life the more I love Him and hate sin. I long to spend eternity with Him.

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--Final Chapter--"To My Father, and Your Father"
Post by: Beacon on February 05, 2020, 04:50:37 PM

"Christ had ascended to heaven in the form of humanity. The disciples had beheld the cloud receive Him. The same Jesus who had walked and talked and prayed with them; who had broken bread with them; who had been with them in their boats on the lake; and who had that very day toiled with them up the ascent of Olivet,--The same Jesus had now gone to share His Father's throne. And the angels had assured them that the very One whom they had seen go up into heaven, would come again even as He had ascended. He will come "with clouds; and every eye shall see Him." "The Lord Himself shall descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the Archangel, and with the trump of God: and the dead in Christ shall rise." "The Son of man shall come in His glory, and all the holy angels with Him, then shall He sit upon the throne of His glory." Revelation 1:7; 1 Thessalonians 4:16; Matthew 25:31. Thus will be fulfilled the Lord's own promise to His disciples: "If I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto Myself; that where I am, there ye may be also." John 14:3. Well might the disciples rejoice in the hope of their Lord's return."

Satan is vanquished---He is a defeated foe!! Those who surrender to Jesus "NOW" can rest assured that if they remain faithful in their earthly journey, they also will join the heavenly throng when Jesus comes to take His children home. There will be no more Suffering, Pain and Sorrow. No more Death!! All the trials of this life are behind them --"FOREVER MORE". What Joy it will be to be with Jesus. Oh friends let us keep our eyes fixed upon Jesus and be ready to enter into the "JOY OF OUR SALVATION!"

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--Final Chapter--"To My Father, and Your Father"
Post by: Pastor Sean Brizendine on February 06, 2020, 06:07:33 AM

Amen, Brother Beacon!!

We need not be discouraged when Christ abides in our hearts by faith!!

"When the disciples went back to Jerusalem, the people looked upon them with amazement. After the trial and crucifixion of Christ, it had been thought that they would appear downcast and ashamed. Their enemies expected to see upon their faces an expression of sorrow and defeat. Instead of this there was only gladness and triumph. Their faces were aglow with a happiness not born of earth. They did not mourn over disappointed hopes, but were full of praise and thanksgiving to God. With rejoicing they told the wonderful story of Christ's resurrection and His ascension to heaven, and their testimony was received by many." {The Desire of Ages, page 832, paragraph 3}

Let us go forth today in the joy of Jesus to bless others! Even if people would expect us to be discouraged based on what we have gone through, let us not turn our eyes from the eternal realities Jesus has gone to prepare for us!! He Himself is the great Reward, the One in whom all our hopes are centered!

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--Final Chapter--"To My Father, and Your Father"
Post by: Dorine on February 06, 2020, 06:12:44 AM

Christ had sojourned in the world for thirty-three years; He had endured its scorn, insult, and mockery; He had been rejected and crucified. Now, when about to ascend to His throne of glory,--as He reviews the ingratitude of the people He came to save,--will He not withdraw from them His sympathy and love? Will not His affections be centered upon that realm where He is appreciated, and where sinless angels wait to do His bidding? No; His promise to those loved ones whom He leaves on earth is, "I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world." Matthew 28:20.

We are once again reminded of the great love and sacrifice extended to the inhabitants of this sin sick planet.  I cling to Him today in surrender of heart for I need Him every moment of the day. He never leaves us even when we fall but stretches out His hand to lift us up that we may walk together again; moment by moment, hour by hour, year by year into the kingdom of heaven never to look back. We are almost there. May we never allow the cares or pleasures of this life to exclude us from the incredible beauties of eternity.

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--Final Chapter--"To My Father, and Your Father"
Post by: Richard Myers on February 06, 2020, 07:05:43 AM

Amen! If we will continue to spend a thoughtful hour each day contemplating His great love for us, how can we even turn from Him? By beholding Him, we shall be continually changed into His character. The things of this world will soon pass away, but the things we cannot see are eternal and will never pass away! Let us renew our vows to our Savior and live for Him today.

This dark spot in the universe is God's lesson book for the entire universe. The great controversy between good and evil, between Christ and Satan has been decided. But, not all is finished. God has yet to present to the universe the power of His grace to keep fallen man from sinning. Not one man or two men, but an entire church! When Christ suffered and died, God's part of the everlasting covenant was completed, now it is our time to do our part. God is waiting upon us. What was His part? Jesus had to survive having His heal bruised. He refuses to receive the worship of angels until His Father confirms that justice has been satisfied.

     He enters into the presence of His Father. He points to His wounded head, the pierced side, the marred feet; He lifts His hands, bearing the print of nails. He points to the tokens of His triumph; He presents to God the wave sheaf, those raised with Him as representatives of that great multitude who shall come forth from the grave at His second coming. He approaches the Father, with whom there is joy over one sinner that repents; who rejoices over one with singing. Before the foundations of the earth were laid, the Father and the Son had united in a covenant to redeem man if he should be overcome by Satan. They had clasped Their hands in a solemn pledge that Christ should become the surety for the human race. This pledge Christ has fulfilled. When upon the cross He cried out, "It is finished," He addressed the Father. The compact had been fully carried out. Now He declares: Father, it is finished. I have done Thy will, O My God. I have completed the work of redemption. If Thy justice is satisfied, "I will that they also, whom Thou hast given Me, be with Me where I am." John 19:30; 17:24.
     The voice of God is heard proclaiming that justice is satisfied. Satan is vanquished. Christ's toiling, struggling ones on earth are "accepted in the Beloved." Ephesians 1:6. Before the heavenly angels and the representatives of unfallen worlds, they are declared justified. Where He is, there His church shall be. "Mercy and truth are met together; righteousness and peace have kissed each other." Psalm 85:10. The Father's arms encircle His Son, and the word is given, "Let all the angels of God worship Him." Hebrews 1:6. 

And let us also worship Him with all of our strength!

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--Final Chapter--"To My Father, and Your Father"
Post by: Richard Myers on February 06, 2020, 07:10:50 AM

We have once again completed the study of this most wonderful revelation of our God. Ask any of us if we are tired of reading this Book every day and the answer will always be the same. How can we tire of being blessed by a deeper understanding of the love or our God! It is life to us. We want to encourage those who are reading along with us to share your blessings as you are being blessed. If you are not registered, please do so and share your joys with all who will read in this forum from now until our Savior comes to take us home!!

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--Final Chapter--"To My Father, and Your Father"
Post by: Lena on February 07, 2020, 09:09:21 PM

Quote

Ask any of us if we are tired of reading this Book

I have downloaded an audio version of The Desire of Ages to my computer.  It is such a blessing to go about my day and listen to wonderful words.
Am downloading several EGW audio books but Desire of Ages is my favorite.

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--Final Chapter--"To My Father, and Your Father"
Post by: Dorine on May 03, 2020, 04:52:18 AM

"Songs of triumph mingle with the music from angel harps, till heaven seems to overflow with joy and praise. Love has conquered. The lost is found. Heaven rings with voices in lofty strains proclaiming, "Blessing, and honor, and glory, and power, be unto Him that sitteth upon the throne, and unto the Lamb forever and ever." Revelation 5:13."

What a journey! and I'm excited to start it all over again. As I was reading this morning the thought came to me that one of these times will be the last time until we are reunited in heaven. We will not need the book because we will be in the presence of the One we have been reading about. My heart is surrendered to Him as I begin this new day. When all is right between God and I there is much joy, peace and there is a deep assurance that He is my God and I am His child. No I don't deserve it but that is what makes me love Him all the more. No matter our history He will never turn away from a represented heart.

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--Final Chapter--"To My Father, and Your Father"
Post by: Beacon on May 03, 2020, 06:00:26 AM

..."The Son had united in a covenant to redeem man if he should be overcome by Satan. They had clasped Their hands in a solemn pledge that Christ should become the surety for the human race. This pledge Christ has fulfilled. When upon the cross He cried out, "It is finished," He addressed the Father. The compact had been fully carried out. Now He declares: Father, it is finished. I have done Thy will, O My God. I have completed the work of redemption."

"If Thy justice is satisfied, "I will that they also, whom Thou hast given Me, be with Me where I am." John 19:30; 17:24

"The voice of God is heard proclaiming that justice is satisfied. Satan is vanquished. Christ's toiling, struggling ones on earth are "accepted in the Beloved." Ephesians 1:6. Before the heavenly angels and the representatives of unfallen worlds, they are declared justified. Where He is, there His church shall be. "Mercy and truth are met together; righteousness and peace have kissed each other." Psalm 85:10. The Father's arms encircle His Son, and the word is given, "Let all the angels of God worship Him." Hebrews 1:6."

What more can be said than, " THANK YOU JESUS FOR GRANTING AND PROVIDING SUCH GREAT REDEMPTION TO ONE SUCH AS I"

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--Final Chapter--"To My Father, and Your Father"
Post by: Richard Myers on May 03, 2020, 08:54:39 AM

Amen dear brother!  I appreciate so much that I can see our God is not just a Spirit, but He has arms!!   :)  We are recreated in His image!

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--Final Chapter--"To My Father, and Your Father"
Post by: Richard Myers on May 03, 2020, 08:54:52 AM

Quote from: Dorine on May 03, 2020, 04:52:18 AM

"Songs of triumph mingle with the music from angel harps, till heaven seems to overflow with joy and praise. Love has conquered. The lost is found. Heaven rings with voices in lofty strains proclaiming, "Blessing, and honor, and glory, and power, be unto Him that sitteth upon the throne, and unto the Lamb forever and ever." Revelation 5:13."

What a journey! and I'm excited to start it all over again. As I was reading this morning the thought came to me that one of these times will be the last time until we are reunited in heaven. We will not need the book because we will be in the presence of the One we have been reading about. My heart is surrendered to Him as I begin this new day. When all is right between God and I there is much joy, peace and there is a deep assurance that He is my God and I am His child. No I don't deserve it but that is what makes me love Him all the more. No matter our history He will never turn away from a represented heart.

Amen! What a God we serve!! Are we as excited as were the angels when entering the City? We ought to be! We are the ones for whom Christ suffered and died

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--Final Chapter--"To My Father, and Your Father"
Post by: Richard Myers on May 03, 2020, 09:00:48 AM

There is order in heaven. And, there is to be order here in His church. All is not what it ought to be, or what it soon will be. The organized church is organized to do a work we cannot do individually. While we remain in a Laodicean condition, revival and reformation is taking place today. Those who do not believe the church will be revived, do not study the Spirit of Prophecy nor the Bible well enough. God has promised to heal the church. He is pouring out clean water upon us today. He is breathing out His Holy Spirit upon the dead, dead, dry bones. They will arise and walk.

In today's reading, what a chapter, we find evidence of perfect organization in heaven.

  There is the throne, and around it the rainbow of promise. There are cherubim and seraphim. The commanders of the angel hosts, the sons of God, the representatives of the unfallen worlds, are assembled. The heavenly council before which Lucifer had accused God and His Son, the representatives of those sinless realms over which Satan had thought to establish his dominion,--all are there to welcome the Redeemer. They are eager to celebrate His triumph and to glorify their King.

God has won the victory for us, now let us glorify Him that He can put an end to suffering and sin!

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--Final Chapter--"To My Father, and Your Father"
Post by: Pastor Sean Brizendine on May 03, 2020, 10:41:02 AM

Amen, Amen, and Amen!! I heartily agree with you, Sister Dorine, Brother Beacon, and Brother Richard!! One thing that we also can look forward to in heaven is that we will still have The Bible, The Desire of Ages (as you reflected upon Sister Dorine, though being in God's presence will bring new beauty to what has been given us), and all of the sacred revelations God has given us, especially as "our little world is the lesson book of the universe" {The Desire of Ages, page 19, paragraph 2}, and I look forward to God Himself showing us NEW DEPTHS of beauty and glory from the Bible and the Spirit of Prophecy FOR ALL ETERNITY!!

God so values what we go through in this world enough to record EVERYTHING of spiritual significance in a special book: "Then they that feared the Lord spake often one to another: and the Lord hearkened, and heard it, and a book of remembrance was written before him for them that feared the Lord, and that thought upon his name" (Malachi 3:16). Furthermore, we often think of the word of God as only the 66 books of the Bible, but it is much more that comprises God's sacred revelation to us! I love this reality: "The great storehouse of truth is the word of God—the written word, the book of nature, and the book of experience in God's dealing with human life. Here are the treasures from which Christ's workers are to draw. In the search after truth they are to depend upon God, not upon human intelligences, the great men whose wisdom is foolishness with God. Through His own appointed channels the Lord will impart a knowledge of Himself to every seeker." {Christ's Object Lessons, page 125, paragraph 2} And it is as we have been unitedly seeking Christ together in this journey in The Desire of Ages that we have been deeply blessed!!

I was so encouraged today to focus on Christ's victory:

"From that scene of heavenly joy, there comes back to us on earth the echo of Christ's own wonderful words, 'I ascend unto My Father, and your Father; and to My God, and your God.' John 20:17. The family of heaven and the family of earth are one. For us our Lord ascended, and for us He lives. "Wherefore He is able also to save them to the uttermost that come unto God by Him, seeing He ever liveth to make intercession for them." Hebrews 7:25." {The Desire of Ages, page 835, paragraph 2}   

Yes, Jesus is NOW interceding in heaven's sanctuary to blot out the record of the sins of those who have found the victory in the gospel to live lives of humble, complete surrender of the ENTIRE heart to Him so He can not only cleanse from sin but impute and impart His character that will always be manifested in all of the fruits of the Spirit without one missing while living up to all the glorious light of the Ten Commandments! And the only reason we obey is from the pure motive of love, because we love Him who first loved us!

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--Final Chapter--"To My Father, and Your Father"
Post by: Dorine on July 29, 2020, 05:41:49 AM

Life is speeding by. Here we are again at the end of this beautiful book. The following paragraph warmed my heart this morning and filled me with joy and longing with it's hope and promise for all those who have accepted Jesus as their personal Saviour.

  Christ had ascended to heaven in the form of humanity. The disciples had beheld the cloud receive Him. The same Jesus who had walked and talked and prayed with them; who had broken bread with them; who had been with them in their boats on the lake; and who had that very day toiled with them up the ascent of Olivet,--the same Jesus had now gone to share His Father's throne. And the angels had assured them that the very One whom they had seen go up into heaven, would come again even as He had ascended. He will come "with clouds; and every eye shall see Him." "The Lord Himself shall descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the Archangel, and with the trump of God: and the dead in Christ shall rise." "The Son of man shall come in His glory, and all the holy angels with Him, then shall He sit upon the throne of His glory." Revelation 1:7; 1 Thessalonians 4:16; Matthew 25:31. Thus will be fulfilled the Lord's own promise to His disciples: "If I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto Myself; that where I am, there ye may be also." John 14:3. Well might the disciples rejoice in the hope of their Lord's return.

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--Final Chapter--"To My Father, and Your Father"
Post by: Pastor Sean Brizendine on July 29, 2020, 06:27:40 AM

Amen, Sister Dorine! What a blessing to share this encouragement together!!

As I finish reading The Desire of Ages again, I am so thankful that I have been freshly brought into Jesus' presence by beholding Him and seeing the precious promises in the Bible so powerfully highlighted! I love that He is not satisfied until we are all with Him!!

"But He waves them back. Not yet; He cannot now receive the coronet of glory and the royal robe. He enters into the presence of His Father. He points to His wounded head, the pierced side, the marred feet; He lifts His hands, bearing the print of nails. He points to the tokens of His triumph; He presents to God the wave sheaf, those raised with Him as representatives of that great multitude who shall come forth from the grave at His second coming. He approaches the Father, with whom there is joy over one sinner that repents; who rejoices over one with singing. Before the foundations of the earth were laid, the Father and the Son had united in a covenant to redeem man if he should be overcome by Satan. They had clasped Their hands in a solemn pledge that Christ should become the surety for the human race. This pledge Christ has fulfilled. When upon the cross He cried out, 'It is finished,' He addressed the Father. The compact had been fully carried out. Now He declares: Father, it is finished. I have done Thy will, O My God. I have completed the work of redemption. If Thy justice is satisfied, 'I will that they also, whom Thou hast given Me, be with Me where I am.' John 19:30; 17:24." {The Desire of Ages, page 834, paragraph 2}

Let us keep looking to Christ and surrendering UNRESERVEDLY to His will on a moment-by-moment basis so all of the fruits of the Spirit may be manifest in our lives without one missing as we live the law of heaven with affectionate willingness!!

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--Final Chapter--"To My Father, and Your Father"
Post by: Beacon on July 29, 2020, 07:01:46 AM

"Before the foundations of the earth were laid, the Father and the Son had united in a covenant to redeem man if he should be overcome by Satan. They had clasped Their hands in a solemn pledge that Christ should become the surety for the human race. This pledge Christ has fulfilled. When upon the cross He cried out, "It is finished," He addressed the Father. The compact had been fully carried out. Now He declares: Father, it is finished. I have done Thy will, O My God. I have completed the work of redemption. If Thy justice is satisfied, "I will that they also, whom Thou hast given Me, be with Me where I am." John 19:30; 17:24.

Isn't it a WONDERFUL, almost an incomprehensible  thought --- Jesus wants "us" His redeemed family from earth -- to be with Him for all eternity. All pain, sorrow, and sadness have been banished FOREVER!! 

Revelation 21:4
And God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes; and there shall be no more death, neither sorrow, nor crying, neither shall there be any more pain: for the former things are passed away.

'The voice of God is heard proclaiming that justice is satisfied. Satan is vanquished. Christ's toiling, struggling ones on earth are "accepted in the Beloved." Ephesians 1:6. Before the heavenly angels and the representatives of unfallen worlds, they are declared justified. Where He is, there His church shall be. "Mercy and truth are met together; righteousness and peace have kissed each other." Psalm 85:10. The Father's arms encircle His Son, and the word is given, "Let all the angels of God worship Him." Hebrews 1:6.

Revelation 22:20  He which testifieth these things saith, Surely I come quickly. Amen. Even so, come, Lord Jesus.

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--Final Chapter--"To My Father, and Your Father"
Post by: Richard Myers on July 29, 2020, 10:24:29 PM

Amen, amen, and amen!! What a glorious day it was when our heavenly Father's arms encircled His Son! Imagine His joy!!! His Son is safe from the evil in this wicked world.

 There is the throne, and around it the rainbow of promise. There are cherubim and seraphim. The commanders of the angel hosts, the sons of God, the representatives of the unfallen worlds, are assembled. The heavenly council before which Lucifer had accused God and His Son, the representatives of those sinless realms over which Satan had thought to establish his dominion,--all are there to welcome the Redeemer. They are eager to celebrate His triumph and to glorify their King.
     But He waves them back. Not yet; He cannot now receive the coronet of glory and the royal robe. He enters into the presence of His Father. He points to His wounded head, the pierced side, the marred feet; He lifts His hands, bearing the print of nails. He points to the tokens of His triumph; He presents to God the wave sheaf, those raised with Him as representatives of that great multitude who shall come forth from the grave at His second coming. He approaches the Father, with whom there is joy over one sinner that repents; who rejoices over one with singing. Before the foundations of the earth were laid, the Father and the Son had united in a covenant to redeem man if he should be overcome by Satan. They had clasped Their hands in a solemn pledge that Christ should become the surety for the human race. This pledge Christ has fulfilled. When upon the cross He cried out, "It is finished," He addressed the Father. The compact had been fully carried out. Now He declares: Father, it is finished. I have done Thy will, O My God. I have completed the work of redemption. If Thy justice is satisfied, "I will that they also, whom Thou hast given Me, be with Me where I am." John 19:30; 17:24.
     The voice of God is heard proclaiming that justice is satisfied. Satan is vanquished. Christ's toiling, struggling ones on earth are "accepted in the Beloved." Ephesians 1:6. Before the heavenly angels and the representatives of unfallen worlds, they are declared justified. Where He is, there His church shall be. "Mercy and truth are met together; righteousness and peace have kissed each other." Psalm 85:10. The Father's arms encircle His Son, and the word is given, "Let all the angels of God worship Him." Hebrews 1:6. 

And amid the rejoicing our God and His Son do not forget why Jesus had to come here a helpless baby subject to the weakness of humanity to fight the battle as we have to fight it....at the risk of failure and eternal loss! Such love!!! It was for us while we were yet sinners. Our Father and our Savior were and are filled with joy when one sinner repents.   It is the grace whereby we are saved daily. Let us continue to spend that thoughtful hour each day contemplating His life and His love!!!

Thank you, Jesus for giving us this most beautiful revelation of your character in which we also see our heavenly Father!

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--Final Chapter--"To My Father, and Your Father"
Post by: Pastor Sean Brizendine on October 24, 2020, 03:59:42 AM

Happy Sabbath! Go forward with Jesus!!

"Upon reaching the Mount of Olives, Jesus led the way across the summit, to the vicinity of Bethany. Here He paused, and the disciples gathered about Him. Beams of light seemed to radiate from His countenance as He looked lovingly upon them. He upbraided them not for their faults and failures; words of the deepest tenderness were the last that fell upon their ears from the lips of their Lord. With hands outstretched in blessing, and as if in assurance of His protecting care, He slowly ascended from among them, drawn heavenward by a power stronger than any earthly attraction. As He passed upward, the awe-stricken disciples looked with straining eyes for the last glimpse of their ascending Lord. A cloud of glory hid Him from their sight; and the words came back to them as the cloudy chariot of angels received Him, 'Lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world.' At the same time there floated down to them the sweetest and most joyous music from the angel choir." {The Desire of Ages, page 830, paragraph 3}  

Let us rejoice that Jesus is COMING SO SOON and we have the privilege of sharing the GOOD NEWS with as many as possible! Jesus can take the most sinful, broken life and transform the heart and mind into the place where He dwells, manifesting in and through the life His true character--all of the fruits of the Spirit without one missing in happy obedience to the law of God!

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--Final Chapter--"To My Father, and Your Father"
Post by: Dorine on October 24, 2020, 06:05:23 AM

"The voice of God is heard proclaiming that justice is satisfied. Satan is vanquished. Christ's toiling, struggling ones on earth are "accepted in the Beloved." Ephesians 1:6. Before the heavenly angels and the representatives of unfallen worlds, they are declared justified. Where He is, there His church shall be. "Mercy and truth are met together; righteousness and peace have kissed each other." Psalm 85:10. The Father's arms encircle His Son, and the word is given, "Let all the angels of God worship Him." Hebrews 1:6.

What a day of rejoicing that will be. But we may rejoice now because the promise is sure. We may have trials and temptations but our hearts may be full of joy and peace because we know the God of the future.  We are 3 months closer to heaven than when we started this reading. Is our relationship to Jesus closer than it ever has been?  For me He is changing me daily. He is constantly in my thoughts and in my heart but my heart yearns to know Him even more. Happy Sabbath.

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--Final Chapter--"To My Father, and Your Father"
Post by: Beacon on October 24, 2020, 04:20:07 PM

"The voice of God is heard proclaiming that justice is satisfied. Satan is vanquished. Christ's toiling, struggling ones on earth are "accepted in the Beloved." Ephesians 1:6. Before the heavenly angels and the representatives of unfallen worlds, they are declared justified. Where He is, there His church shall be. "Mercy and truth are met together; righteousness and peace have kissed each other." Psalm 85:10. The Father's arms encircle His Son, and the word is given, "Let all the angels of God worship Him." Hebrews 1:6.

Satan is vanquished---He is a defeated foe!! Those who surrender to Jesus "NOW" can rest assured that if they remain faithful in their earthly journey, they also will join the heavenly throng when Jesus comes to take His children home. There will be no more Suffering, Pain and Sorrow. No more Death!! All the trials of this life are behind them --"FOREVER MORE". What Joy it will be to be with Jesus. Oh friends let us keep our eyes fixed upon Jesus and be ready to enter into the "JOY OF OUR SALVATION!"

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--Final Chapter--"To My Father, and Your Father"
Post by: Richard Myers on October 24, 2020, 06:51:56 PM

Imagine the thrill in heaven when Jesus returned from the torture inflicted upon Him. Who was it that caused Jesus to suffer the most? It was those He came to save who called Him their Messiah. On the other hand that suffering was nothing compared to the suffering that was leveled upon Him when the sins of the world were taken, and then my sins were added. :( How very sad that we have made His suffering worse.

      All heaven was waiting to welcome the Saviour to the celestial courts. As He ascended, He led the way, and the multitude of captives set free at His resurrection followed. The heavenly host, with shouts and acclamations of praise and celestial song, attended the joyous train.

Our turn to praise and shout will soon come if by God's grace we are faithful until the end! Notice here that it was a "multitude" of repentant sinners (saints) that He took with Him.

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--Final Chapter--"To My Father, and Your Father"
Post by: Richard Myers on January 18, 2021, 05:27:53 AM

How can we not be filled with joy having seen the character and promises of our Savior!! He is a living Savior who is at the right hand of God making intercession for us!!

     Christ had sojourned in the world for thirty-three years; He had endured its scorn, insult, and mockery; He had been rejected and crucified. Now, when about to ascend to His throne of glory,--as He reviews the ingratitude of the people He came to save,--will He not withdraw from them His sympathy and love? Will not His affections be centered upon that realm where He is appreciated, and where sinless angels wait to do His bidding? No; His promise to those loved ones whom He leaves on earth is, "I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world." Matthew 28:20.

Jesus loves us!!!  If we love Him with the whole heart, He will never leave us!!! While there is no excuse for sin, we still have an Intercessor who suffered and died that we might have a period of time to learn of Him and to develop a character that will fit us for heaven!  What a message we have been given to take to a world soon to perish!  Will we be filled with joy today as were His disciples when He left them?

When the disciples went back to Jerusalem, the people looked upon them with amazement. After the trial and crucifixion of Christ, it had been thought that they would appear downcast and ashamed. Their enemies expected to see upon their faces an expression of sorrow and defeat. Instead of this there was only gladness and triumph. Their faces were aglow with a happiness not born of earth. They did not mourn over disappointed hopes, but were full of praise and thanksgiving to God. With rejoicing they told the wonderful story of Christ's resurrection and His ascension to heaven, and their testimony was received by many.

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--Final Chapter--"To My Father, and Your Father"
Post by: Dorine on January 18, 2021, 06:21:50 AM

Christ had ascended to heaven in the form of humanity. The disciples had beheld the cloud receive Him. The same Jesus who had walked and talked and prayed with them; who had broken bread with them; who had been with them in their boats on the lake; and who had that very day toiled with them up the ascent of Olivet,--the same Jesus had now gone to share His Father's throne. And the angels had assured them that the very One whom they had seen go up into heaven, would come again even as He had ascended. He will come "with clouds; and every eye shall see Him." "The Lord Himself shall descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the Archangel, and with the trump of God: and the dead in Christ shall rise." "The Son of man shall come in His glory, and all the holy angels with Him, then shall He sit upon the throne of His glory." Revelation 1:7; 1 Thessalonians 4:16; Matthew 25:31. Thus will be fulfilled the Lord's own promise to His disciples: "If I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto Myself; that where I am, there ye may be also." John 14:3. Well might the disciples rejoice in the hope of their Lord's return.

Our hearts fill with excitement when we realize just how close we are to being ushered into the kingdom of God for eternity. We may not know the day nor the hour but all signs tell us that He is even at the door. Let us tirelessly work for the saving of souls while there is still time. We may have confidence in the promises of God to be with us and to work supernaturally for us in this work. May our faith be anchored in the word of God and may our lives be the proof of that faith.

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--Final Chapter--"To My Father, and Your Father"
Post by: Pastor Sean Brizendine on January 19, 2021, 04:05:47 AM

Amen, Brother Richard and Sister Dorine!!

Thirty-three years is how long Jesus sojourned on earth. He ascended to heaven as a Man with glorified human nature, but He is ever our Brother! Let us rejoice that we have One who "fully gets us" and can save us COMPLETELY from sin because He became sin for us, and is willing to heal us completely into the image of His righteousness! He is with us forever!! He invites us to yield the whole heart to Him so we may have a converted heart and mind that is cleansed by His blood and filled with His Holy Spirit so that all of the traits of the divine nature will be manifest in our life without one missing!

"Christ had sojourned in the world for thirty-three years; He had endured its scorn, insult, and mockery; He had been rejected and crucified. Now, when about to ascend to His throne of glory,--as He reviews the ingratitude of the people He came to save,--will He not withdraw from them His sympathy and love? Will not His affections be centered upon that realm where He is appreciated, and where sinless angels wait to do His bidding? No; His promise to those loved ones whom He leaves on earth is, "I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world." Matthew 28:20." {The Desire of Ages, page 830, paragraph 2}

As we look above the trials of this life to Christ and His soon return, we can remember that He is our intercessor and mediator for us in the heavenly sanctuary, preparing a place for us as we cooperate with Him in true character building after the image of His character--the law of love and the definition of freedom!

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--Final Chapter--"To My Father, and Your Father"
Post by: Philip T on January 19, 2021, 01:32:36 PM

  Christ had sojourned in the world for thirty-three years; He had endured its scorn, insult, and mockery; He had been rejected and crucified. Now, when about to ascend to His throne of glory,--as He reviews the ingratitude of the people He came to save,--will He not withdraw from them His sympathy and love? Will not His affections be centered upon that realm where He is appreciated, and where sinless angels wait to do His bidding? No; His promise to those loved ones whom He leaves on earth is, "I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world." Matthew 28:20. [/

This is a wonderful thought to dwell upon, despite all of out missteps and failures leading to sin. Jesus promise to us is He will be with us until the end of the world. His focus remains on this sinful world, so when re are confessing our sins to Him, and doing all in our power through his transforming power we can overcome as Jesus continues to work for our salvation as He would have all come to salvation.

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--Final Chapter--"To My Father, and Your Father"
Post by: Richard Myers on April 16, 2021, 05:20:22 AM

What a day in heaven was the return of Jesus!! All heaven rejoiced. It is almost impossible for us to understand what took place on that day when Jesus ascended with the marks of Calvary imprinted on His head, hands, and feet for all to see. We ought to fall on our knees and worship Him as did the heavenly throng!

    The voice of God is heard proclaiming that justice is satisfied. Satan is vanquished. Christ's toiling, struggling ones on earth are "accepted in the Beloved." Ephesians 1:6. Before the heavenly angels and the representatives of unfallen worlds, they are declared justified. Where He is, there His church shall be. "Mercy and truth are met together; righteousness and peace have kissed each other." Psalm 85:10. The Father's arms encircle His Son, and the word is given, "Let all the angels of God worship Him." Hebrews 1:6.
     With joy unutterable, rulers and principalities and powers acknowledge the supremacy of the Prince of life. The angel host prostrate themselves before Him, while the glad shout fills all the courts of heaven, "Worthy is the Lamb that was slain to receive power, and riches, and wisdom, and strength, and honor, and glory, and blessing." Revelation 5:12.
     Songs of triumph mingle with the music from angel harps, till heaven seems to overflow with joy and praise. Love has conquered. The lost is found. Heaven rings with voices in lofty strains proclaiming, "Blessing, and honor, and glory, and power, be unto Him that sitteth upon the throne, and unto the Lamb forever and ever." Revelation 5:13.

Amen, amen, and amen!!

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--Final Chapter--"To My Father, and Your Father"
Post by: Philip T on April 16, 2021, 07:05:05 AM

But He waves them back. Not yet; He cannot now receive the coronet of glory and the royal robe. He enters into the presence of His Father. He points to His wounded head, the pierced side, the marred feet; He lifts His hands, bearing the print of nails. He points to the tokens of His triumph; He presents to God the wave sheaf, those raised with Him as representatives of that great multitude who shall come forth from the grave at His second coming. He approaches the Father, with whom there is joy over one sinner that repents; who rejoices over one with singing. Before the foundations of the earth were laid, the Father and the Son had united in a covenant to redeem man if he should be overcome by Satan. They had clasped Their hands in a solemn pledge that Christ should become the surety for the human race. This pledge Christ has fulfilled. When upon the cross He cried out, "It is finished," He addressed the Father. The compact had been fully carried out. Now He declares: Father, it is finished. I have done Thy will, O My God. I have completed the work of redemption. If Thy justice is satisfied, "I will that they also, whom Thou hast given Me, be with Me where I am." John 19:30; 17:24. [/b]

Oh the love of the Father and Son, making covenant to save mankind at such suffering and pain for them both, the love to fulfill it for all humanity. This is seen clearly in this paragraph. A truth to contemplate upon, and realize that Jesus' love for us goes on and on throughout eternity. He will come again in the clouds of glory at the 2nd Advent to take His loved ones home to the mansions He has prepared for his faithful ones. 

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--Final Chapter--"To My Father, and Your Father"
Post by: Pastor Sean Brizendine on April 16, 2021, 07:29:59 AM

Try to imagine what it was like when Jesus went to heaven after ascending from the earth, taking those who were also resurrected with Him at the time He rose from the dead. Contemplate the glorious victory and realize that this victory was wrought for you and me--to live a life of constant victory over sin by the power of the Holy Spirit!!

"The voice of God is heard proclaiming that justice is satisfied. Satan is vanquished. Christ's toiling, struggling ones on earth are 'accepted in the Beloved.' Ephesians 1:6. Before the heavenly angels and the representatives of unfallen worlds, they are declared justified. Where He is, there His church shall be. 'Mercy and truth are met together; righteousness and peace have kissed each other.' Psalm 85:10. The Father's arms encircle His Son, and the word is given, 'Let all the angels of God worship Him.' Hebrews 1:6." {The Desire of Ages, page 834, paragraph 3} 

When we realize what is being offered to us and keep our eyes fixed on Jesus' infinite loveliness of character, He empowers us to go forward in a full-heart surrender by grace through faith that works by love and purifies the soul, so all of the fruits of the Spirit will be seen in our lives without one missing!

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--Final Chapter--"To My Father, and Your Father"
Post by: Beacon on April 16, 2021, 07:36:56 AM

"There is the throne, and around it the rainbow of promise. There are cherubim and seraphim. The commanders of the angel hosts, the sons of God, the representatives of the unfallen worlds, are assembled. The heavenly council before which Lucifer had accused God and His Son, the representatives of those sinless realms over which Satan had thought to establish his dominion,--all are there to welcome the Redeemer. They are eager to celebrate His triumph and to glorify their King."
     
The voice of God is heard proclaiming that justice is satisfied. Satan is vanquished.

"Christ's toiling, struggling ones on earth are "accepted in the Beloved." Ephesians 1:6. Before the heavenly angels and the representatives of unfallen worlds, they are declared justified. Where He is, there His church shall be. "Mercy and truth are met together; righteousness and peace have kissed each other." Psalm 85:10.  

The Father's arms encircle His Son, and the word is given, "Let all the angels of God worship Him." Hebrews 1:6.

I don't know about you but in my life I like to buy things that are "GUARANTEED".  How happy we should be to know that our Jesus, Saviour and Best Friend has provided us with a Guarantee of Eternal Life through His sacrifice on the Cross of Calvary and Ratified by God the Father! While  on earth Jesus said..."I must be about my Father's business."  He was fully committed to His mission. Are "We" Fully committed to Him.??    

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--Final Chapter--"To My Father, and Your Father"
Post by: Dorine on July 12, 2021, 05:18:24 AM

"Upon reaching the Mount of Olives, Jesus led the way across the summit, to the vicinity of Bethany. Here He paused, and the disciples gathered about Him. Beams of light seemed to radiate from His countenance as He looked lovingly upon them. He upbraided them not for their faults and failures; words of the deepest tenderness were the last that fell upon their ears from the lips of their Lord. With hands outstretched in blessing, and as if in assurance of His protecting care, He slowly ascended from among them, drawn heavenward by a power stronger than any earthly attraction. As He passed upward, the awe-stricken disciples looked with straining eyes for the last glimpse of their ascending Lord. A cloud of glory hid Him from their sight; and the words came back to them as the cloudy chariot of angels received Him, "Lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world." At the same time there floated down to them the sweetest and most joyous music from the angel choir."

As I grow in Christ I am ever mindful of the times I disappoint Him. But we may rejoice to know that in spite of the times we take our eyes of Him He never leaves us nor condemns us but patiently waits for our return to Him in repentance and confession. As we travel with Jesus day after day submitting our lives to Him we are growing in grace and the pull of temptation will be less and less. If someone gave me a gun and ordered me to shoot my children I would be horrified and absolutely refuse. That's how I want to look at all sin and God promises to do that for us by continually beholding Him.

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--Final Chapter--"To My Father, and Your Father"
Post by: Pastor Sean Brizendine on July 12, 2021, 05:37:41 AM

Amen, Sister Dorine!

Praise the Lord, we have a risen Savior!! Be not afraid for the future as you keep your eyes fixed on Jesus and experience true conversion in constant surrender to His will and allow Him to manifest through you all of the fruits of the Spirit without one missing as you affectionately obey God's law of love!

"The disciples no longer had any distrust of the future. They knew that Jesus was in heaven, and that His sympathies were with them still. They knew that they had a friend at the throne of God, and they were eager to present their requests to the Father in the name of Jesus. In solemn awe they bowed in prayer, repeating the assurance, 'Whatsoever ye shall ask the Father in My name, He will give it you. Hitherto have ye asked nothing in My name: ask, and ye shall receive, that your joy may be full.' John 16:23, 24. They extended the hand of faith higher and higher, with the mighty argument, 'It is Christ that died, yea rather, that is risen again, who is even at the right hand of God, who also maketh intercession for us.' Romans 8:34. And Pentecost brought them fullness of joy in the presence of the Comforter, even as Christ had promised." {The Desire of Ages, page 833, paragraph 1}

May you let Jesus direct you constantly in His perfect will! He is preparing us for heaven!!

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--Final Chapter--"To My Father, and Your Father"
Post by: Richard Myers on July 12, 2021, 06:10:29 AM

Amen Pastor Sean! Heaven is so very close!

Quote from: Dorine on July 12, 2021, 05:18:24 AM

  If someone gave me a gun and ordered me to shoot my children I would be horrified and absolutely refuse. That's how I want to look at all sin and God promises to do that for us by continually beholding Him.

Amen!!!  What a great example of what grace allowed into the heart will do for  us. Do we hate sin enough to refuse to sin? And, then when we realize we have no power to resist sinning, you give us the answer as to what we must do in order to cease hurting others, Jesus, and ourselves. May God grant us today victory over self and sin.

God has blessed us greatly! We have once again completed reading the most beautiful revelation of God ever given to man. As we have been blessed, let us share our blessings with those who are seeking truth.

    The voice of God is heard proclaiming that justice is satisfied. Satan is vanquished. Christ's toiling, struggling ones on earth are "accepted in the Beloved." Ephesians 1:6. Before the heavenly angels and the representatives of unfallen worlds, they are declared justified. Where He is, there His church shall be. "Mercy and truth are met together; righteousness and peace have kissed each other." Psalm 85:10. The Father's arms encircle His Son, and the word is given, "Let all the angels of God worship Him." Hebrews 1:6.
     With joy unutterable, rulers and principalities and powers acknowledge the supremacy of the Prince of life. The angel host prostrate themselves before Him, while the glad shout fills all the courts of heaven, "Worthy is the Lamb that was slain to receive power, and riches, and wisdom, and strength, and honor, and glory, and blessing." Revelation 5:12.
     Songs of triumph mingle with the music from angel harps, till heaven seems to overflow with joy and praise. Love has conquered. The lost is found. Heaven rings with voices in lofty strains proclaiming, "Blessing, and honor, and glory, and power, be unto Him that sitteth upon the throne, and unto the Lamb forever and ever." Revelation 5:13.

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--Final Chapter--"To My Father, and Your Father"
Post by: Beacon on July 12, 2021, 07:09:13 AM

"Before the foundations of the earth were laid, the Father and the Son had united in a covenant to redeem man if he should be overcome by Satan. They had clasped Their hands in a solemn pledge that Christ should become the surety for the human race. This pledge Christ has fulfilled. When upon the cross He cried out, "It is finished," He addressed the Father. The compact had been fully carried out. Now He declares: Father, it is finished. I have done Thy will, O My God. I have completed the work of redemption. If Thy justice is satisfied, "I will that they also, whom Thou hast given Me, be with Me where I am." John 19:30; 17:24.

Isn't it a WONDERFUL, almost an incomprehensible  thought --- Jesus wants "us" His redeemed family from earth -- to be with Him for all eternity. All pain, sorrow, and sadness have been banished FOREVER!!

Revelation 21:4 says...
"And God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes; and there shall be no more death, neither sorrow, nor crying, neither shall there be any more pain: for the former things are passed away".

"The voice of God is heard proclaiming that justice is satisfied. Satan is vanquished. Christ's toiling, struggling ones on earth are "accepted in the Beloved." Ephesians 1:6. Before the heavenly angels and the representatives of unfallen worlds, they are declared justified. Where He is, there His church shall be. "Mercy and truth are met together; righteousness and peace have kissed each other." Psalm 85:10. The Father's arms encircle His Son, and the word is given, "Let all the angels of God worship Him." Hebrews 1:6.[/color]

Revelation 22:20  He which testifieth these things saith, Surely I come quickly. Amen. Even so, come, Lord Jesus.

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--Final Chapter--"To My Father, and Your Father"
Post by: Philip T on July 12, 2021, 07:47:01 AM

  While the disciples were still gazing upward, voices addressed them which sounded like richest music. They turned, and saw two angels in the form of men, who spoke to them, saying, "Ye men of Galilee, why stand ye gazing up into heaven? this same Jesus, which is taken up from you into heaven, shall so come in like manner as ye have seen Him go into heaven."     As they drew near to the city of God, the challenge is given by the escorting angels,--


                 "Lift up your heads, O ye gates;
                  And be ye lift up, ye everlasting doors;
                  And the King of glory shall come in."
     Joyfully the waiting sentinels respond,--

          "Who is this King of glory?"
     This they say, not because they know not who He is, but because they would hear the answer of exalted praise,--


                "The Lord strong and mighty,
                 The Lord mighty in battle!
                 Lift up your heads, O ye gates;
                 Even lift them up, ye everlasting doors;
                 And the King of glory shall come in."

     Again is heard the challenge, "Who is this King of glory?" for the angels never weary of hearing His name exalted. The escorting angels make reply,--


                 "The Lord of hosts;
                  He is the King of glory." Psalm 24:7-10.

     Then the portals of the city of God are opened wide, and the angelic throng sweep through the gates amid a burst of rapturous music.
     There is the throne, and around it the rainbow of promise. There are cherubim and seraphim. The commanders of the angel hosts, the sons of God, the representatives of the unfallen worlds, are assembled. The heavenly council before which Lucifer had accused God and His Son, the representatives of those sinless realms over which Satan had thought to establish his dominion,--all are there to welcome the Redeemer. They are eager to celebrate His triumph and to glorify their King.

Just as Jesus ascended to heaven he shall return with every eye seeing Him return. The joy in heaven over Christs assentation and entry, we will have one day also and soon I believe, as we ascend to heaven with Him at his second advent. What joy we will have as we enter heaven and stand on the sea of glass, singing our praise and joy to Jesus as well. No more pain, tears, of sorrow.  What a day that will be.

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--Final Chapter--"To My Father, and Your Father"
Post by: Beacon on October 07, 2021, 04:49:06 AM

 "With joy unutterable, rulers and principalities and powers acknowledge the supremacy of the Prince of life. The angel host prostrate themselves before Him, while the glad shout fills all the courts of heaven...

"Worthy is the Lamb that was slain to receive power, and riches, and wisdom, and strength, and honor, and glory, and blessing." Revelation 5:12.

"Songs of triumph mingle with the music from angel harps, till heaven seems to overflow with joy and praise."

"Love has conquered. The lost is found." Heaven rings with voices in lofty strains proclaiming,..

"Blessing, and honor, and glory, and power, be unto Him that sitteth upon the throne, and unto the Lamb forever and ever." Revelation 5:13.

"Thus will be fulfilled the Lord's own promise to His disciples: "If I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto Myself; that where I am, there ye may be also." John 14:3. Well might the disciples rejoice in the hope of their Lord's return."

What wonderful assurances we have, that if we are faithful to Jesus , He will be returning to take us home as it says in..John 14:2
In my Father's house are many mansions: if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you."

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--Final Chapter--"To My Father, and Your Father"
Post by: Dorine on October 07, 2021, 05:43:48 AM

"From that scene of heavenly joy, there comes back to us on earth the echo of Christ's own wonderful words, "I ascend unto My Father, and your Father; and to My God, and your God." John 20:17. The family of heaven and the family of earth are one. For us our Lord ascended, and for us He lives. "Wherefore He is able also to save them to the uttermost that come unto God by Him, seeing He ever liveth to make intercession for them." Hebrews 7:25.

What a sweet, sweet, loving Saviour we serve. He is soon to return to gather us together and usher us home. We are so close. Now is not the time to be disheartened and fearful. We are almost there and as evil intensifies here on earth, as we wait for His return, we may know that He will keep His promise to deliver us from sin when we continually abide in Him. Let's lean on His power and promises as we submit our lives each day to Him. He brings renewed hope and joy to my heart this morning.

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--Final Chapter--"To My Father, and Your Father"
Post by: Pastor Sean Brizendine on October 07, 2021, 11:16:17 AM

Amen, Brother Beacon and Sister Dorine!!

What a joy it is to be accepted in the Beloved! Christ gives us graciously His acceptance on account of His sacrifice as we yield the whole heart to Him, confess and forsake our sins, and abide in His victory! No fear in love becomes our abiding experience as we rest in the reality of His word! Constant union and communion with Christ is such a blessing, accompanied by all of the fruits of the Spirit without one missing as we affectionately obey the law of God!

 "The voice of God is heard proclaiming that justice is satisfied. Satan is vanquished. Christ's toiling, struggling ones on earth are 'accepted in the Beloved.' Ephesians 1:6. Before the heavenly angels and the representatives of unfallen worlds, they are declared justified. Where He is, there His church shall be. 'Mercy and truth are met together; righteousness and peace have kissed each other.' Psalm 85:10. The Father's arms encircle His Son, and the word is given, 'Let all the angels of God worship Him.' Hebrews 1:6." {The Desire of Ages, page 834, paragraph 3}

Let us fix our eyes upon Jesus no matter what may come in our earthly pilgrimage! Jesus has the power and the grace to guide us in His healing path to heaven, encouraging us to invite others to the heavenly home, too! Let us do all we can to present the attractive loveliness of Jesus to the whole world for His promises are sure and cannot fail the weakest soul who trusts unreservedly in Him and follows where His Spirit leads!

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--Final Chapter--"To My Father, and Your Father"
Post by: Richard Myers on October 08, 2021, 05:13:57 AM

Amen!!  "The Father's arms encircle His Son..."  What a picture to keep in our minds. This is our God!

God loves us so very much He  let His innocent Son come to this dark spot in the universe, a helpless baby subject to our weaknesses to fight the battle of life as we must fight it at the risk of failure and eternal loss!!! And when He had finished His work, His last Words to the onlooking disciples is a promise for you and for me. Even though we have sinned, if we will spend a thoughful hour a day contemplating our Savior's life sin will become hateful to us. When we come to this point, we can appreciate what He has done that we might live. We will trust Him with all we are and all we have. We believe that He means what He says "I am with you always even unto the end of the world."

   Christ had sojourned in the world for thirty-three years; He had endured its scorn, insult, and mockery; He had been rejected and crucified. Now, when about to ascend to His throne of glory,--as He reviews the ingratitude of the people He came to save,--will He not withdraw from them His sympathy and love? Will not His affections be centered upon that realm where He is appreciated, and where sinless angels wait to do His bidding? No; His promise to those loved ones whom He leaves on earth is, "I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world." Matthew 28:20. 

What a joy to once again complete reading the most beautiful Book ever written. How could anyone not love Jesus supremely after reading of His life, suffering and death! Thank you Jesus for your love for us as unworthy as we are!

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--Final Chapter--"To My Father, and Your Father"
Post by: Beacon on January 01, 2022, 11:19:03 AM

"With joy unutterable, rulers and principalities and powers acknowledge the supremacy of the Prince of life."

"The angel host prostrate themselves before Him, while the glad shout fills all the courts of heaven...,"

"Worthy is the Lamb that was slain to receive power, and riches, and wisdom, and strength, and honor, and glory, and blessing." Revelation 5:12."

"Songs of triumph mingle with the music from angel harps, till heaven seems to overflow with joy and praise."

"Love has conquered."

"The lost is found. Heaven rings with voices in lofty strains proclaiming, "Blessing, and honor, and glory, and power, be unto Him that sitteth upon the throne, and unto the Lamb forever and ever." Revelation 5:13.

As we start a New Year may our hearts rejoice and once again repeat. " Jesus Paid it All - All to Him I owe. "
---------------------------------------

   I hear the Savior say,
“Thy strength indeed is small,
Child of weakness, watch and pray,
Find in Me thine all in all.”
    Jesus paid it all,
All to Him I owe;
Sin had left a crimson stain,
  He washed it white as snow.
2
Lord, now indeed I find
Thy pow’r, and Thine alone,
Can change the leper’s spots,
And melt the heart of stone.
3
For nothing good have I
Whereby Thy grace to claim—
I’ll wash my garments white
In the blood of Calv’ry’s Lamb.
4
And when, before the throne,
I stand in Him complete,
“Jesus died my soul to save,”
My lips shall still repeat.

Lyrics:Elvina Mable Reynolds Hall (1822-1889)
Music:John Thomas Grape (1834-1915)

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--Final Chapter--"To My Father, and Your Father"
Post by: Beacon on January 01, 2022, 08:56:27 PM

"With joy unutterable, rulers and principalities and powers acknowledge the supremacy of the Prince of life."

"The angel host prostrate themselves before Him, while the glad shout fills all the courts of heaven...,"

"Worthy is the Lamb that was slain to receive power, and riches, and wisdom, and strength, and honor, and glory, and blessing." Revelation 5:12."

"Songs of triumph mingle with the music from angel harps, till heaven seems to overflow with joy and praise."

"Love has conquered."

"The lost is found. Heaven rings with voices in lofty strains proclaiming, "Blessing, and honor, and glory, and power, be unto Him that sitteth upon the throne, and unto the Lamb forever and ever." Revelation 5:13.

As we start a New Year may our hearts rejoice and once again repeat. " Jesus Paid it All - All to Him I owe. "
---------------------------------------

   I hear the Savior say,
“Thy strength indeed is small,
Child of weakness, watch and pray,
Find in Me thine all in all.”
    Jesus paid it all,
All to Him I owe;
Sin had left a crimson stain,
  He washed it white as snow.
2
Lord, now indeed I find
Thy pow’r, and Thine alone,
Can change the leper’s spots,
And melt the heart of stone.
3
For nothing good have I
Whereby Thy grace to claim—
I’ll wash my garments white
In the blood of Calv’ry’s Lamb.
4
And when, before the throne,
I stand in Him complete,
“Jesus died my soul to save,”
My lips shall still repeat.

Lyrics: Elvina Mable Reynolds Hall (1822-1889)
Music:John Thomas Grape (1834-1915)

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--Final Chapter--"To My Father, and Your Father"
Post by: Dorine on January 02, 2022, 06:10:56 AM

"While the disciples were still gazing upward, voices addressed them which sounded like richest music. They turned, and saw two angels in the form of men, who spoke to them, saying, "Ye men of Galilee, why stand ye gazing up into heaven? this same Jesus, which is taken up from you into heaven, shall so come in like manner as ye have seen Him go into heaven."

I am so thankful that we have a clear understanding of the manner in which Christ shall return. It will not be in secret or silent. People will not mysteriously disappear as some believe. He will not suddenly appear in some part of the earth and then another as the enemy will do. All are going to witness His majestic and glorious return as He comes with all of heaven. Are we prepared today for that great and mighty day when Christ will come for His faithful followers? for it's almost time.

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--Final Chapter--"To My Father, and Your Father"
Post by: Richard Myers on January 02, 2022, 08:45:39 AM

Amen!!  We have been given great light that we might know out God of His great love for us!

We have closed another year of beholding the  glory of our God!! What joy fills our hearts knowing we have been doing exactly what Jesus tells the world to do, "drink His blood, and eat His flesh."  It is by being reminded that He suffered and died for us, that we might live a life of peace and joy, even amid great tribulations. He is coming so very soon!! How many more times shall we continue reading of Him? Not many! Soon by God's grace we shall see Him face to face! Come Lord Jesus!

    The voice of God is heard proclaiming that justice is satisfied. Satan is vanquished. Christ's toiling, struggling ones on earth are "accepted in the Beloved." Ephesians 1:6. Before the heavenly angels and the representatives of unfallen worlds, they are declared justified. Where He is, there His church shall be. "Mercy and truth are met together; righteousness and peace have kissed each other." Psalm 85:10. The Father's arms encircle His Son, and the word is given, "Let all the angels of God worship Him." Hebrews 1:6. 

What does this mean? Satan is already vanquished!  But, he cannot stop what he is doing, it is his character to hurt. The unfallen worlds understand that guilty man, all who have truly been transformed will be allowed into the unfallen holy world. And what  was the response in heaven when God declared the Sacrifice was enough? Read about it in our Brother Beacon's post above! What a celebration took place in heaven. We ought to be just as thankful every day of our life! It was a great risk and much suffering by our God. Let us praise Him and glorify Him who gave all that we might live. What a way to start our new year!!!

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--Final Chapter--"To My Father, and Your Father"
Post by: Beacon on March 29, 2022, 08:00:58 PM

"Christ had sojourned in the world for thirty-three years; He had endured its scorn, insult, and mockery."

"He had been rejected and crucified."

"Now, when about to ascend to His throne of glory,--as He reviews the ingratitude of the people He came to save,--will He not withdraw from them His sympathy and love?"

"Will not His affections be centered upon that realm where He is appreciated, and where sinless angels wait to do His bidding?"

"No"...His promise to those loved ones whom He leaves on earth is...

"I am with you always, even unto the end of the world." Matthew 28:20.

How very happy and totally reassured we should be by the words above. Yes, we may have a rough and challenging flight through this life, as did our Jesus. But we are guarantied a SAFE LANDING.

=========================
All the way my Savior leads me;
  What have I to ask beside?
Can I doubt His tender mercy,
  Who through life has been my Guide?
Heav’nly peace, divinest comfort,
  Here by faith in Him to dwell!
For I know, whate’er befall me,
  Jesus doeth all things well,
For I know, whate’er befall me,
  Jesus doeth all things well.
2
All the way my Savior leads me,
  Cheers each winding path I tread,
Gives me grace for every trial,
  Feeds me with the living bread.
Though my weary steps may falter,
  And my soul athirst may be,
Gushing from the Rock before me,
  Lo! a spring of joy I see,
Gushing from the Rock before me,
  Lo! a spring of joy I see.
3
All the way my Savior leads me;
  Oh, the fullness of His grace!
Perfect rest to me is promised
  In my Father’s blest embrace.
When my spirit, clothed immortal,
  Wings its flight to realms of day,
This my song through endless ages:
  Jesus led me all the way,
This my song through endless ages:
  Jesus led me all the way.

Lyrics:Fanny Jane Crosby (1820-1915) bio
Music:Robert Lowry (1826-1899)

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--Final Chapter--"To My Father, and Your Father"
Post by: Richard Myers on March 30, 2022, 11:05:06 PM

Amen Brother Beacon!! All who love the Lord our God with all of the heart will have a safe landing.....very soon!!

  Then the portals of the city of God are opened wide, and the angelic throng sweep through the gates amid a burst of rapturous music.
     There is the throne, and around it the rainbow of promise. There are cherubim and seraphim. The commanders of the angel hosts, the sons of God, the representatives of the unfallen worlds, are assembled. The heavenly council before which Lucifer had accused God and His Son, the representatives of those sinless realms over which Satan had thought to establish his dominion,--all are there to welcome the Redeemer. They are eager to celebrate His triumph and to glorify their King.
     But He waves them back. Not yet; He cannot now receive the coronet of glory and the royal robe. He enters into the presence of His Father. He points to His wounded head, the pierced side, the marred feet; He lifts His hands, bearing the print of nails. He points to the tokens of His triumph; He presents to God the wave sheaf, those raised with Him as representatives of that great multitude who shall come forth from the grave at His second coming. He approaches the Father, with whom there is joy over one sinner that repents; who rejoices over one with singing. Before the foundations of the earth were laid, the Father and the Son had united in a covenant to redeem man if he should be overcome by Satan. They had clasped Their hands in a solemn pledge that Christ should become the surety for the human race. This pledge Christ has fulfilled. When upon the cross He cried out, "It is finished," He addressed the Father. The compact had been fully carried out. Now He declares: Father, it is finished. I have done Thy will, O My God. I have completed the work of redemption. If Thy justice is satisfied, "I will that they also, whom Thou hast given Me, be with Me where I am." John 19:30; 17:24. 

The everlasting covenant to give us a hatred for sin was assured when Christ said "it is finished."  Now, man has the opportunity to live eternally in a world without sin. What has to happen? We must learn of God so that we can trust Him with all we have and all we are. Then we shall love Him with all of the heart.

Again, we have completed reading this most precious Book on the life of Christ. We can proclaim that spending a thoughtful hour a day contemplating the life of Jesus is not only well...but a great blessing. By beholding His glory we are being transformed into His image day by day! We invite all who are reading with us to share with us your blessings. To register send an email to administrator@remnant-online.com

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--Final Chapter--"To My Father, and Your Father"
Post by: Pastor Sean Brizendine on March 31, 2022, 05:17:23 AM

Why should we be afraid about the future? God knows it and it is always safe to trust an unknown future to a known God! The key is completely surrendering the whole heart to Him moment-by-moment!

The disciples no longer had any distrust of the future. They knew that Jesus was in heaven, and that His sympathies were with them still. They knew that they had a friend at the throne of God, and they were eager to present their requests to the Father in the name of Jesus. In solemn awe they bowed in prayer, repeating the assurance, "Whatsoever ye shall ask the Father in My name, He will give it you. Hitherto have ye asked nothing in My name: ask, and ye shall receive, that your joy may be full." John 16:23, 24. They extended the hand of faith higher and higher, with the mighty argument, "It is Christ that died, yea rather, that is risen again, who is even at the right hand of God, who also maketh intercession for us." Romans 8:34. And Pentecost brought them fullness of joy in the presence of the Comforter, even as Christ had promised.

When we look away from the weakness of self and abide in the loveliness of Jesus, we can thrive in all situations because we have His Spirit abiding in our hearts, with all of the fruits of His character manifest without one missing!

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--Final Chapter--"To My Father, and Your Father"
Post by: Beacon on June 24, 2022, 08:40:23 PM

"Jesus approaches the Father, with whom there is joy over one sinner that repents; who rejoices over one with singing."

"Before the foundations of the earth were laid, the Father and the Son had united in a covenant to redeem man if he should be overcome by Satan."

"They had clasped Their hands in a solemn pledge that Christ should become the surety for the human race."

"This pledge Christ has fulfilled."


"When upon the cross He cried out, "It is finished," He addressed the Father."

"The compact had been fully carried out. Now He declares:"

"Father, it is finished. I have done Thy will, O My God. I have completed the work of redemption. If Thy justice is satisfied, "I will that they also, whom Thou hast given Me, be with Me where I am." John 19:30; 17:24. "

What rejoicing there must have been in Heaven. The glad hosannas of victory must have echoed from the Eternal City of God through-out all the vast universe! Once again Peace, Joy, and Love was secured on an eternal basis. Never again would sin, sorrow or death raise their ugly heads. 

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

     I hear the Savior say,
“Thy strength indeed is small,
Child of weakness, watch and pray,
Find in Me thine all in all.”
    Jesus paid it all,
All to Him I owe;
Sin had left a crimson stain,
  He washed it white as snow.
2
Lord, now indeed I find
Thy pow’r, and Thine alone,
Can change the leper’s spots,
And melt the heart of stone.
3
For nothing good have I
Whereby Thy grace to claim—
I’ll wash my garments white
In the blood of Calv’ry’s Lamb.
4
And when, before the throne,
I stand in Him complete,
“Jesus died my soul to save,”
My lips shall still repeat."

Lyrics:Elvina Mable Reynolds Hall (1822-1889)
Music:John Thomas Grape (1834-191


        "HAPPY SABBATH TO ALL GOD'S CHILDREN AROUND THE WORLD & BEYOND"

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--Final Chapter--"To My Father, and Your Father"
Post by: Dorine on June 25, 2022, 05:55:10 AM

"Christ had ascended to heaven in the form of humanity. The disciples had beheld the cloud receive Him. The same Jesus who had walked and talked and prayed with them; who had broken bread with them; who had been with them in their boats on the lake; and who had that very day toiled with them up the ascent of Olivet,--the same Jesus had now gone to share His Father's throne. And the angels had assured them that the very One whom they had seen go up into heaven, would come again even as He had ascended. He will come "with clouds; and every eye shall see Him." "The Lord Himself shall descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the Archangel, and with the trump of God: and the dead in Christ shall rise." "The Son of man shall come in His glory, and all the holy angels with Him, then shall He sit upon the throne of His glory." Revelation 1:7; 1 Thessalonians 4:16; Matthew 25:31. Thus will be fulfilled the Lord's own promise to His disciples: "If I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto Myself; that where I am, there ye may be also." John 14:3. Well might the disciples rejoice in the hope of their Lord's return."

This account fills me with joy and hope this Sabbath morning. Jesus shares a special connection with us that will never change. What love, what grace we have been shown through the life of Jesus leading us to trust and obey Him in all things. Each day we are being changed into His character as we submit our whole hearts to Him. Praise God for never giving up on us.

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--Final Chapter--"To My Father, and Your Father"
Post by: Richard Myers on June 25, 2022, 09:21:55 AM

Amen my brother and sister!! Once again we have been blessed by beholding our the character of our Savior, our heavenly Father, and the Holy Spirit! What can ever be greater!! By beholding His glory we are becoming more and more like Him! Oh, that all would spend a thoughtful hour a day contemplating the life of Christ!! Yes, we give up reading something else in that hour, but what else is there more important than beholding Jesus!!!

It is getting harder and harder to just present one paragraph!  :) There is so very much in each chapter.  This last chapter is no different. In summing up the whole book, I share this:

  Then the portals of the city of God are opened wide, and the angelic throng sweep through the gates amid a burst of rapturous music.
     There is the throne, and around it the rainbow of promise. There are cherubim and seraphim. The commanders of the angel hosts, the sons of God, the representatives of the unfallen worlds, are assembled. The heavenly council before which Lucifer had accused God and His Son, the representatives of those sinless realms over which Satan had thought to establish his dominion,--all are there to welcome the Redeemer. They are eager to celebrate His triumph and to glorify their King.
     But He waves them back. Not yet; He cannot now receive the coronet of glory and the royal robe. He enters into the presence of His Father. He points to His wounded head, the pierced side, the marred feet; He lifts His hands, bearing the print of nails. He points to the tokens of His triumph; He presents to God the wave sheaf, those raised with Him as representatives of that great multitude who shall come forth from the grave at His second coming. He approaches the Father, with whom there is joy over one sinner that repents; who rejoices over one with singing. Before the foundations of the earth were laid, the Father and the Son had united in a covenant to redeem man if he should be overcome by Satan. They had clasped Their hands in a solemn pledge that Christ should become the surety for the human race. This pledge Christ has fulfilled. When upon the cross He cried out, "It is finished," He addressed the Father. The compact had been fully carried out. Now He declares: Father, it is finished. I have done Thy will, O My God. I have completed the work of redemption. If Thy justice is satisfied, "I will that they also, whom Thou hast given Me, be with Me where I am." John 19:30; 17:24.
     The voice of God is heard proclaiming that justice is satisfied. Satan is vanquished. Christ's toiling, struggling ones on earth are "accepted in the Beloved." Ephesians 1:6. Before the heavenly angels and the representatives of unfallen worlds, they are declared justified. Where He is, there His church shall be. "Mercy and truth are met together; righteousness and peace have kissed each other." Psalm 85:10. The Father's arms encircle His Son, and the word is given, "Let all the angels of God worship Him." Hebrews 1:6. 

Thank you Jesus!!! We love you and praise your holy name!!

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--Final Chapter--"To My Father, and Your Father"
Post by: Dorine on September 20, 2022, 05:33:35 AM

  "The disciples no longer had any distrust of the future. They knew that Jesus was in heaven, and that His sympathies were with them still. They knew that they had a friend at the throne of God, and they were eager to present their requests to the Father in the name of Jesus. In solemn awe they bowed in prayer, repeating the assurance, "Whatsoever ye shall ask the Father in My name, He will give it you. Hitherto have ye asked nothing in My name: ask, and ye shall receive, that your joy may be full." John 16:23, 24. They extended the hand of faith higher and higher, with the mighty argument, "It is Christ that died, yea rather, that is risen again, who is even at the right hand of God, who also maketh intercession for us." Romans 8:34. And Pentecost brought them fullness of joy in the presence of the Comforter, even as Christ had promised."

Does joy fill your heart at these words? We have a wonderful friend in heaven waiting for all to accept Him into their hearts as their own personal friend and Saviour. Through Him we have access to the Father and we are urged to come to Him in prayer. When we are in unity with Him our requests will be according to His will for He knows what is best for us.

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--Final Chapter--"To My Father, and Your Father"
Post by: Richard Myers on September 20, 2022, 06:12:40 AM

Amen my dear sister!!  What a thrilling reading this morning!!   Jesus loves us!!!   How could we not do His will! Let us go forth with great joy and share the truth in Word and deed!!

   The voice of God is heard proclaiming that justice is satisfied. Satan is vanquished. Christ's toiling, struggling ones on earth are "accepted in the Beloved." Ephesians 1:6. Before the heavenly angels and the representatives of unfallen worlds, they are declared justified. Where He is, there His church shall be. "Mercy and truth are met together; righteousness and peace have kissed each other." Psalm 85:10. The Father's arms encircle His Son, and the word is given, "Let all the angels of God worship Him." Hebrews 1:6.
     With joy unutterable, rulers and principalities and powers acknowledge the supremacy of the Prince of life. The angel host prostrate themselves before Him, while the glad shout fills all the courts of heaven, "Worthy is the Lamb that was slain to receive power, and riches, and wisdom, and strength, and honor, and glory, and blessing." Revelation 5:12.
     Songs of triumph mingle with the music from angel harps, till heaven seems to overflow with joy and praise. Love has conquered. The lost is found. Heaven rings with voices in lofty strains proclaiming, "Blessing, and honor, and glory, and power, be unto Him that sitteth upon the throne, and unto the Lamb forever and ever." Revelation 5:13.
     From that scene of heavenly joy, there comes back to us on earth the echo of Christ's own wonderful words, "I ascend unto My Father, and your Father; and to My God, and your God." John 20:17. The family of heaven and the family of earth are one. For us our Lord ascended, and for us He lives. "Wherefore He is able also to save them to the uttermost that come unto God by Him, seeing He ever liveth to make intercession for them." Hebrews 7:25.

Amen, amen, and amen!

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--Final Chapter--"To My Father, and Your Father"
Post by: Pastor Sean Brizendine on September 20, 2022, 06:30:06 AM

Amen, Sister Dorine and Brother Richard!!

Looking in faith to the Redeemer, we may have continual victory over sin and walk with Jesus by grace through faith in His word! All of the fruits of the Spirit will be seen in our lives without one missing as long as we are surrendered fully to Jesus! He empowers us to obey God from the heart and obey His commandments as an expression of His infinite love at work in our hearts by grace through faith!

"Christ had ascended to heaven in the form of humanity. The disciples had beheld the cloud receive Him. The same Jesus who had walked and talked and prayed with them; who had broken bread with them; who had been with them in their boats on the lake; and who had that very day toiled with them up the ascent of Olivet,--the same Jesus had now gone to share His Father's throne. And the angels had assured them that the very One whom they had seen go up into heaven, would come again even as He had ascended. He will come 'with clouds; and every eye shall see Him.' 'The Lord Himself shall descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the Archangel, and with the trump of God: and the dead in Christ shall rise.' 'The Son of man shall come in His glory, and all the holy angels with Him, then shall He sit upon the throne of His glory.' Revelation 1:7; 1 Thessalonians 4:16; Matthew 25:31. Thus will be fulfilled the Lord's own promise to His disciples: 'If I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto Myself; that where I am, there ye may be also.' John 14:3. Well might the disciples rejoice in the hope of their Lord's return." {The Desire of Ages, page 832, paragraph 2}  

God is so gracious to us to prepare us for our eternal home and guide us in the heavenward way! Praise the Lord for Jesus' soon return!!

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--Final Chapter--"To My Father, and Your Father"
Post by: Dorine on December 16, 2022, 05:58:26 AM

"Christ had sojourned in the world for thirty-three years; He had endured its scorn, insult, and mockery; He had been rejected and crucified. Now, when about to ascend to His throne of glory,--as He reviews the ingratitude of the people He came to save,--will He not withdraw from them His sympathy and love? Will not His affections be centered upon that realm where He is appreciated, and where sinless angels wait to do His bidding? No; His promise to those loved ones whom He leaves on earth is, "I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world." Matthew 28:20.
As we await the return of our lovely Saviour we rejoice in knowing that it won't be long and He will come to take us home. But there's a great work to do yet. May we realize the urgency and do our part in spreading the good news to lost souls.

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--Final Chapter--"To My Father, and Your Father"
Post by: Beacon on December 16, 2022, 07:00:06 AM

"Songs of triumph mingle with the music from angel harps, till heaven seems to overflow with joy and praise. Love has conquered."

"The lost is found."

"Heaven rings with voices in lofty strains proclaiming, "Blessing, and honor, and glory, and power, be unto Him that sitteth upon the throne, and unto the Lamb forever and ever." Revelation 5:13."

"From that scene of heavenly joy, there comes back to us on earth the echo of Christ's own wonderful words, "

 "I ascend unto My Father, and your Father; and to My God, and your God." John 20:17.

"The family of heaven and the family of earth are one. For us our Lord ascended, and for us He lives."

"Wherefore He is able also to save them to the uttermost that come unto God by Him, seeing He ever liveth to make intercession for them." Hebrews 7:25.


Some people get very, very excited when they win an " Earthly Lottery " but the effects often produce many negative results which only lessen the chance of an individual sensing their need of a Redeeming Savior. Let us focus on Jesus and what He has done for us. What He offers to us will never fade away for ALL ETERNITY!! Hopefully " WE ALL " will chose Jesus.

====================
1
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--Final Chapter--"To My Father, and Your Father"
Post by: Pastor Sean Brizendine on December 16, 2022, 07:33:54 AM

Praise the Lord, Sister Dorine and Brother Beacon, for the joy we get to have in pointing others to Jesus!!

What a wonderful family we can be a part of as we accept Christ as a living Savior into our hearts and abide in His unselfish love! In complete surrender to Him all of the fruits of the Spirit without one missing will be manifest in our lives, as Christ in us as the hope of glory empowers us to obey Him from the new heart He imparts! Praise God that such a character experience will reach through the eternal ages!

"From that scene of heavenly joy, there comes back to us on earth the echo of Christ's own wonderful words, 'I ascend unto My Father, and your Father; and to My God, and your God.' John 20:17. The family of heaven and the family of earth are one. For us our Lord ascended, and for us He lives. 'Wherefore He is able also to save them to the uttermost that come unto God by Him, seeing He ever liveth to make intercession for them.' Hebrews 7:25." {The Desire of Ages, page 835, paragraph 2}

Christ not only intercedes for us, but He empowers us to do His will, preparing us for heaven by imparting heaven into our hearts!

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--Final Chapter--"To My Father, and Your Father"
Post by: Richard Myers on December 16, 2022, 11:20:04 AM

Well....we did it again!  Was the blessing still great even though we have read this many many times? Do we better understand the character of our God? Is it true that it is well to spend a thoughtful hour a day contemplating the life of Jesus?  It has never once appeared boring to read this wonderful revelation of our Savior. There is nothing more beautiful than what we read in Desire of Ages. Let us pray others will join us in beholding the glory of our God.

The end of Christ's part in the everlasting covenant is seen to be satisfied as the Father states it is complete. Christ has paid the price, He suffered for the sins of the whole world. Mercy and truth came together at the cross.

     He enters into the presence of His Father. He points to His wounded head, the pierced side, the marred feet; He lifts His hands, bearing the print of nails. He points to the tokens of His triumph; He presents to God the wave sheaf, those raised with Him as representatives of that great multitude who shall come forth from the grave at His second coming. He approaches the Father, with whom there is joy over one sinner that repents; who rejoices over one with singing. Before the foundations of the earth were laid, the Father and the Son had united in a covenant to redeem man if he should be overcome by Satan. They had clasped Their hands in a solemn pledge that Christ should become the surety for the human race. This pledge Christ has fulfilled. When upon the cross He cried out, "It is finished," He addressed the Father. The compact had been fully carried out. Now He declares: Father, it is finished. I have done Thy will, O My God. I have completed the work of redemption. If Thy justice is satisfied, "I will that they also, whom Thou hast given Me, be with Me where I am." John 19:30; 17:24. 
     The voice of God is heard proclaiming that justice is satisfied. Satan is vanquished. Christ's toiling, struggling ones on earth are "accepted in the Beloved." Ephesians 1:6. Before the heavenly angels and the representatives of unfallen worlds, they are declared justified. Where He is, there His church shall be. "Mercy and truth are met together; righteousness and peace have kissed each other." Psalm 85:10. The Father's arms encircle His Son, and the word is given, "Let all the angels of God worship Him." Hebrews 1:6. 

The Father's arms encircle His Son. Can you picture this? Is it not beautiful! Our heavenly Father looked forward to that day for 33 years. How much do we appreciate their sacrifice?

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--Final Chapter--"To My Father, and Your Father"
Post by: Beacon on March 11, 2023, 07:18:35 PM

"When upon the cross Jesus cried out, "It is finished," He addressed the Father."

"The compact had been fully carried out."

"Now He declares: Father, it is finished."

"I have done Thy will, O My God. I have completed the work of redemption. If Thy justice is satisfied, "I will that they also, whom Thou hast given Me, be with Me where I am." John 19:30; 17:24."

"The voice of God is heard proclaiming that justice is satisfied."

"Satan is vanquished."

"Christ's toiling, struggling ones on earth are "accepted in the Beloved." Ephesians 1:6 "

"Before the heavenly angels and the representatives of unfallen worlds, they are declared justified."

"Where He is, there His church shall be. "

"Mercy and truth are met together; righteousness and peace have kissed each other." Psalm 85:10.

"The Father's arms encircle His Son, and the word is given, "Let all the angels of God worship Him." Hebrews 1:6"

What a day that will be when our Jesus we shall see and He takes us by the hand and leads us to the promised land. Let's make sure today and everyday that we are preparing for that glorious event!!

========================
1
Redeemed—how I love to proclaim it!
Redeemed by the blood of the Lamb;
Redeemed through His infinite mercy,
His child, and forever, I am.
    Redeemed, redeemed,
Redeemed by the blood of the Lamb;
Redeemed, redeemed,
  His child, and forever, I am.
2
Redeemed and so happy in Jesus,
No language my rapture can tell;
I know that the light of His presence
With me doth continually dwell.
3
I think of my blessed Redeemer,
I think of Him all the day long;
I sing, for I cannot be silent;
His love is the theme of my song.
4
I know I shall see in His beauty
The King in whose way I delight;
Who lovingly guardeth my footsteps,
And giveth me songs in the night.

Lyrics:Fanny Jane Crosby (1820-1915)
Music:William James Kirkpatrick (1838-1921)

It is my prayer that you have been blessed as much I have during the reading and posting. Jesus is coming and very soon. Let us pray earnestly for one another that we will not let anything earthly distract us from our mission of Living and Sharing God's Amazing Grace with all who surround us.

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--Final Chapter--"To My Father, and Your Father"
Post by: Dorine on March 12, 2023, 07:00:29 AM

"The disciples no longer had any distrust of the future. They knew that Jesus was in heaven, and that His sympathies were with them still. They knew that they had a friend at the throne of God, and they were eager to present their requests to the Father in the name of Jesus. In solemn awe they bowed in prayer, repeating the assurance, "Whatsoever ye shall ask the Father in My name, He will give it you. Hitherto have ye asked nothing in My name: ask, and ye shall receive, that your joy may be full." John 16:23, 24. They extended the hand of faith higher and higher, with the mighty argument, "It is Christ that died, yea rather, that is risen again, who is even at the right hand of God, who also maketh intercession for us." Romans 8:34. And Pentecost brought them fullness of joy in the presence of the Comforter, even as Christ had promised."

We too have a friend at the throne of God. What a blessing to end this reading with such promise and assurance. I always come away with renewed commitment, courage and peace.

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--Final Chapter--"To My Father, and Your Father"
Post by: Richard Myers on March 12, 2023, 08:54:34 PM

Amen my dear brother and sister!!  What a joy it is to know God better today than yesterday! What a God we serve!! He was not going to leave His loved ones until they knew He had forgiven them and loved them!

  Christ had sojourned in the world for thirty-three years; He had endured its scorn, insult, and mockery; He had been rejected and crucified. Now, when about to ascend to His throne of glory,--as He reviews the ingratitude of the people He came to save,--will He not withdraw from them His sympathy and love? Will not His affections be centered upon that realm where He is appreciated, and where sinless angels wait to do His bidding? No; His promise to those loved ones whom He leaves on earth is, "I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world." Matthew 28:20. 

Thus we have our marching orders to pick up the cross and follow Him! By beholding Him we shall be able to follow in His footsteps. Such a privilege and such a miracle!!

As we complete another reading, from our hearts we long for others to join with us and share in our great blessing of spending a thoughtful hour a day contemplating the life of Christ.

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--Final Chapter--"To My Father, and Your Father"
Post by: Pastor Sean Brizendine on March 13, 2023, 09:26:21 AM

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

He did it! Christ completed the work the Father gave Him on this earth; He lived a sinless life, died as our Sacrifice, rose from the dead, and ascended to heaven with those who rose from the dead as witnesses of His power to raise His people in anticipation of the resurrection to take place at His second coming! As we yield our whole heart to Christ, all of the fruits of the Spirit without one missing will be seen in our lives as we abide in Him and obey our Lord from love! Having heaven in our hearts, we are prepared to be with Jesus in heaven at His soon second coming!

"The voice of God is heard proclaiming that justice is satisfied. Satan is vanquished. Christ's toiling, struggling ones on earth are 'accepted in the Beloved.' Ephesians 1:6. Before the heavenly angels and the representatives of unfallen worlds, they are declared justified. Where He is, there His church shall be. 'Mercy and truth are met together; righteousness and peace have kissed each other.' Psalm 85:10. The Father's arms encircle His Son, and the word is given, 'Let all the angels of God worship Him.' Hebrews 1:6. {The Desire of Ages, page 834, paragraph 3}

What a glorious victory Jesus has accomplished for us! What a blessing it is to trust in Him and walk by grace through faith in His infinite promises! All glory to God who loved us and gave Himself for us!

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--Final Chapter--"To My Father, and Your Father"
Post by: Pastor Sean Brizendine on June 07, 2023, 02:29:43 AM

We get to be part of one family, even though the rest of the family is in heaven and the vast realms of the universe. While we are here on earth, let us ever keep heaven in view by faith, for Jesus has victoriously ascended there as our High Priest and Representative before the Father! He has conquered Satan and is giving us the victory He won as we surrender all to Him and allow His grace and strength to be made perfect in our weakness! Such an abiding experience with Jesus will produce in our character all of the fruits of the Spirit without one missing as we have the privilege of rendering true obedience to all of God's Ten Commandments because He loved us and gave Himself for us! With God all things are possible!!

"From that scene of heavenly joy, there comes back to us on earth the echo of Christ's own wonderful words, 'I ascend unto My Father, and your Father; and to My God, and your God.' John 20:17. The family of heaven and the family of earth are one. For us our Lord ascended, and for us He lives. 'Wherefore He is able also to save them to the uttermost that come unto God by Him, seeing He ever liveth to make intercession for them.' Hebrews 7:25." {The Desire of Ages, page 835, paragraph 2}

Soon Jesus will return in like manner as He ascended to heaven, and we will meet Him in the air with all the redeemed who have been resurrected and translated, having the eternal joy of being with our God forever along with all the eternal family!! Hallelujah!!

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--Final Chapter--"To My Father, and Your Father"
Post by: Richard Myers on June 07, 2023, 09:44:39 AM

Amen!!! We long to see Jesus face to face!! And if we have seen Him we have known the Father! Would you like to have the Father's arms encircle you?

     The voice of God is heard proclaiming that justice is satisfied. Satan is vanquished. Christ's toiling, struggling ones on earth are "accepted in the Beloved." Ephesians 1:6. Before the heavenly angels and the representatives of unfallen worlds, they are declared justified. Where He is, there His church shall be. "Mercy and truth are met together; righteousness and peace have kissed each other." Psalm 85:10. The Father's arms encircle His Son, and the word is given, "Let all the angels of God worship Him." Hebrews 1:6. 

Justice is satisfied! What does that mean? Sadly many, far too many, do not understand how much Jesus had to suffer in order for justice to be satisfied. How much did Jesus have to suffer? He had to suffer until the price for our salvation was enough, and the pain that every unrepentant  sinner shall suffer when raised from the grave after the thousand years. We are thankful for what we just read,  but do we understand why Jesus sweated blood in Gethsemane and why the cup trembled in His hand? How much pain did Jesus have to bear? After suffering, He went to His Father to find out if He had suffered enough? What was His reply? "justice is satisfied."

How much does the wicked one have  to suffer? For every sin done in the flesh. Does this mean pain? Pain for how long? Until justice is satisfied. Is God fair? Absolutely! Not one second longer or one second shorter. Perfect justice. The sinner will not burn for eternity as many have been taught. How long then? Until justice is satisfied. Add up the sins of the whole world and that is how long Jesus had to suffer, until justice is satisfied. Does this draw you closer to Jesus? It ought to because He bore the pain for you and me. We see this at the cross where mercy and truth have met together. Neither justice nor mercy were done away with. Because Jesus paid the price in suffering that belonged to us, He was able to forgive all who have been transformed into saints through His love. Such love! Wonder O heavens and be astonished O Earth!!

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--Final Chapter--"To My Father, and Your Father"
Post by: Richard Myers on June 07, 2023, 09:45:18 AM

Quote from: Dorine on March 15, 2018, 04:31:02 AM

It's hard to believe that we have come to the end of another reading of "The Desire of Ages". Each reading brings such blessings as we behold the loveliness of Jesus. As we have watched Him ascend into heaven through today's chapter I am filled with such gratitude for all He has done to make salvation available to each one of us.  What a future we have to look forward to. We are soon to be united with Jesus and all of heaven. Sin will never again arise. How my heart longs for that day. So until that day......

"From that scene of heavenly joy, there comes back to us on earth the echo of Christ's own wonderful words, "I ascend unto My Father, and your Father; and to My God, and your God." John 20:17. The family of heaven and the family of earth are one. For us our Lord ascended, and for us He lives. "Wherefore He is able also to save them to the uttermost that come unto God by Him, seeing He ever liveth to make intercession for them." Hebrews 7:25. "

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--Final Chapter--"To My Father, and Your Father"
Post by: Richard Myers on June 07, 2023, 09:45:59 AM

Quote from: Beacon on May 23, 2019, 09:05:05 PM

"The voice of God is heard proclaiming that justice is satisfied. Satan is vanquished. Christ's toiling, struggling ones on earth are 'accepted in the Beloved.' Ephesians 1:6. Before the heavenly angels and the representatives of unfallen worlds, they are declared justified. Where He is, there His church shall be. 'Mercy and truth are met together; righteousness and peace have kissed each other.' Psalm 85:10. The Father's arms encircle His Son, and the word is given, 'Let all the angels of God worship Him.' Hebrews 1:6."

" Satan is vanquished" He is a defeated foe!! Those who surrender to Jesus NOW can rest assured that if they remain faithful in their earthly journey, they also will join the heavenly throng when Jesus comes to take His children home. There will be no more suffering, pain and sorrow. No more death!! All the trials of this life are behind them -- FOREVER MORE " What joy it will be to be with Jesus. When we turn our eyes upon Jesus the things of earth will grow strangely dim in the Light of His Glory and Grace.

THANK YOU JESUS FOR THE AWESOME PLAN OF REDEMPTION EXECUTED FOR PLANET EARTH SO THAT ONCE AGAIN THE UNIVERSE WILL PULSE IN HARMONY WITH IT'S CREATOR AND SIN WILL " NEVER RISE AGAIN" John 3:16 SAYS .." For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life."

What temporary sinful pleasure would we, you and I , exchange for what Jesus has made possible ?? Let us today renew our commitment to Jesus and by His grace be ready to celebrate with Him an eternity that will be beyond our imagination. [/color][/b]

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--Final Chapter--"To My Father, and Your Father"
Post by: Beacon on September 01, 2023, 09:46:44 PM

"Before the foundations of the earth were laid, the Father and the Son had united in a covenant to redeem man if he should be overcome by Satan. They had clasped Their hands in a solemn pledge that Christ should become the surety for the human race."

"This pledge Christ has fulfilled."

"When upon the cross He cried out, "It is finished," He addressed the Father. The compact had been fully carried out. Now He declares:...

Father, it is finished. I have done Thy will, O My God. I have completed the work of redemption. If Thy justice is satisfied, "I will that they also, whom Thou hast given Me, be with Me where I am." John 19:30; 17:24.

 "The voice of God is heard proclaiming that justice is satisfied".

"Satan is vanquished.""

Christ's toiling, struggling ones on earth are "accepted in the Beloved." Ephesians 1:6.

"Before the heavenly angels and the representatives of unfallen worlds, they are declared justified."

"Where He is, there His church shall be. "Mercy and truth are met together; righteousness and peace have kissed each other." Psalm 85:10. The Father's arms encircle His Son, and the word is given, "Let all the angels of God worship Him." Hebrews 1:6."

Yes.! Jesus paid it all and all to Him we owe. Are "YOU" - "Am I"  Willing make to make Him King of Kings & Lord of Lords in our life?

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


1
I hear the Savior say,
“Thy strength indeed is small,
Child of weakness, watch and pray,
Find in Me thine all in all.”
    Jesus paid it all,
All to Him I owe;
Sin had left a crimson stain,
  He washed it white as snow.
2
Lord, now indeed I find
Thy pow’r, and Thine alone,
Can change the leper’s spots,
And melt the heart of stone.
3
For nothing good have I
Whereby Thy grace to claim—
I’ll wash my garments white
In the blood of Calv’ry’s Lamb.
4
And when, before the throne,
I stand in Him complete,
“Jesus died my soul to save,”
My lips shall still repeat.

Lyrics:Elvina Mable Reynolds Hall (1822-1889)
Music:John Thomas Grape (1834-1915)


HAPPY SABBATH TO YOU AND YOUR FAMILIES AND FRIENDS

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--Final Chapter--"To My Father, and Your Father"
Post by: Pastor Sean Brizendine on September 02, 2023, 03:47:06 AM

Amen, Brother Beacon!!

Happy Sabbath!! Why fear? In the light of Christ's victory over Satan, His ascension to heaven, and His glorious work there as our High Priest with the prophetic assurance of what He said would take place before His second coming, we need not fear. We need to remember what God has said to us and how He has led, and keep looking up to Jesus who is able to save each soul to the uttermost from sin and make such a soul a true reflection of His pure, holy character because the new heart and mind Jesus gives us by the Holy Spirit is stronger than the fallen nature we are compassed with until Christ gives us a new, glorified body. Partaking of the divine nature by the promises of God, all of the fruits of the Spirit without one missing will be reflected in a life of true obedience to all of God's commandments! Praise God!!

"The disciples no longer had any distrust of the future. They knew that Jesus was in heaven, and that His sympathies were with them still. They knew that they had a friend at the throne of God, and they were eager to present their requests to the Father in the name of Jesus. In solemn awe they bowed in prayer, repeating the assurance, 'Whatsoever ye shall ask the Father in My name, He will give it you. Hitherto have ye asked nothing in My name: ask, and ye shall receive, that your joy may be full.' John 16:23, 24. They extended the hand of faith higher and higher, with the mighty argument, 'It is Christ that died, yea rather, that is risen again, who is even at the right hand of God, who also maketh intercession for us.' Romans 8:34. And Pentecost brought them fullness of joy in the presence of the Comforter, even as Christ had promised." {The Desire of Ages, page 833, paragraph 1} 

Ask for God's will in your life, and trust He will lead you in it day by day, moment by moment, for He is gracious and faithful!

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--Final Chapter--"To My Father, and Your Father"
Post by: Richard Myers on September 02, 2023, 07:35:42 AM

Yes, my dear brothers, we may rejoice as did Jesus and our heavenly Father. Jesus has paid it all!  Today we read of the greatest story ever told.

  Then the portals of the city of God are opened wide, and the angelic throng sweep through the gates amid a burst of rapturous music.
     There is the throne, and around it the rainbow of promise. There are cherubim and seraphim. The commanders of the angel hosts, the sons of God, the representatives of the unfallen worlds, are assembled. The heavenly council before which Lucifer had accused God and His Son, the representatives of those sinless realms over which Satan had thought to establish his dominion,--all are there to welcome the Redeemer. They are eager to celebrate His triumph and to glorify their King.
     But He waves them back. Not yet; He cannot now receive the coronet of glory and the royal robe. He enters into the presence of His Father. He points to His wounded head, the pierced side, the marred feet; He lifts His hands, bearing the print of nails. He points to the tokens of His triumph; He presents to God the wave sheaf, those raised with Him as representatives of that great multitude who shall come forth from the grave at His second coming. He approaches the Father, with whom there is joy over one sinner that repents; who rejoices over one with singing. Before the foundations of the earth were laid, the Father and the Son had united in a covenant to redeem man if he should be overcome by Satan. They had clasped Their hands in a solemn pledge that Christ should become the surety for the human race. This pledge Christ has fulfilled. When upon the cross He cried out, "It is finished," He addressed the Father. The compact had been fully carried out. Now He declares: Father, it is finished. I have done Thy will, O My God. I have completed the work of redemption. If Thy justice is satisfied, "I will that they also, whom Thou hast given Me, be with Me where I am." John 19:30; 17:24.
     The voice of God is heard proclaiming that justice is satisfied. Satan is vanquished. Christ's toiling, struggling ones on earth are "accepted in the Beloved." Ephesians 1:6. Before the heavenly angels and the representatives of unfallen worlds, they are declared justified. Where He is, there His church shall be. "Mercy and truth are met together; righteousness and peace have kissed each other." Psalm 85:10. The Father's arms encircle His Son, and the word is given, "Let all the angels of God worship Him." Hebrews 1:6. 

We are those "struggling ones" who are accepted in the Beloved!  We are the ones to whom is entrusted the sacred oracles of God and the last warning message  to go to the world. We can rejoice that we carry the greatest message ever given to the world, a message of glad tidings upon which the hopes of the human family for time and for eternity depend.   

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--Final Chapter--"To My Father, and Your Father"
Post by: Dorine on November 28, 2023, 06:01:10 AM

"When the disciples went back to Jerusalem, the people looked upon them with amazement. After the trial and crucifixion of Christ, it had been thought that they would appear downcast and ashamed. Their enemies expected to see upon their faces an expression of sorrow and defeat. Instead of this there was only gladness and triumph. Their faces were aglow with a happiness not born of earth. They did not mourn over disappointed hopes, but were full of praise and thanksgiving to God. With rejoicing they told the wonderful story of Christ's resurrection and His ascension to heaven, and their testimony was received by many."

This will be the experience of all who have been with Jesus. With surrendered heart and by the power of the Holy Spirit we live above the distractions of this sinful world. Sickness, pain, sorrow, persecution, nothing will separate us from the love and care of God because He has promised to ever be with His children. Let's hasten the Lord's return by continually seeking the lost and introducing Jesus to them by our words and our lives.

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--Final Chapter--"To My Father, and Your Father"
Post by: Pastor Sean Brizendine on November 28, 2023, 06:14:08 AM

Amen, Sister Dorine!

What an amazing homecoming! When Jesus went to heaven after finishing His ministry on earth as our atoning sacrifice, imagine the indescribable experience the Father and the Son had in that warm, longed-for embrace!

"The voice of God is heard proclaiming that justice is satisfied. Satan is vanquished. Christ's toiling, struggling ones on earth are 'accepted in the Beloved.' Ephesians 1:6. Before the heavenly angels and the representatives of unfallen worlds, they are declared justified. Where He is, there His church shall be. 'Mercy and truth are met together; righteousness and peace have kissed each other.' Psalm 85:10. The Father's arms encircle His Son, and the word is given, 'Let all the angels of God worship Him.' Hebrews 1:6." {The Desire of Ages, page 834, paragraph 3}

The Holy Spirit is impressing our hearts and minds to appreciate these eternal realities! As we appreciate the infinite value of salvation and the incredible gift of being adopted into the Godhead family in Christ as the Lamb's wife, it is SO ENCOURAGING to know and experience true conversion with the vitalizing power of the word of God changing our focus from the temporal things that pass away to the eternal purpose God in repopulating heaven and revealing His character in the universe! All of the fruits of the Spirit without one missing will be revealed in every converted life that lives in complete surrender to the will of God by having Christ abide in the heart, the hope of glory!

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--Final Chapter--"To My Father, and Your Father"
Post by: Beacon on November 28, 2023, 07:28:04 AM

"He approaches the Father, with whom there is joy over one sinner that repents."

"He rejoices over one with singing."

"Before the foundations of the earth were laid, the Father and the Son had united in a covenant to redeem man if he should be overcome by Satan. They had clasped Their hands in a solemn pledge that Christ should become the surety for the human race."

"This pledge Christ has fulfilled. When upon the cross He cried out, "It is finished," He addressed the Father. The compact had been fully carried out. Now He declares: Father, it is finished. I have done Thy will, O My God. I have completed the work of redemption. If Thy justice is satisfied, "I will that they also, whom Thou hast given Me, be with Me where I am." John 19:30; 17:24."

" The voice of God is heard proclaiming that justice is satisfied. Satan is vanquished."

"Christ's toiling, struggling ones on earth are "accepted in the Beloved." Ephesians 1:6. Before the heavenly angels and the representatives of unfallen worlds, they are declared justified. Where He is, there His church shall be. "Mercy and truth are met together; righteousness and peace have kissed each other." Psalm 85:10. The Father's arms encircle His Son, and the word is given, "Let all the angels of God worship Him." Hebrews 1:6"

Praise the Lord - He was victorious!! Now, let "US: renew our commitment to the One who paid it all!!

''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''
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

God Bless You and Your Families as we journey day by day through the Desire of Ages . Please journey with us again as we start over and perhaps tell others about this great way to reinforce our earthly journey with Jesus.

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--Final Chapter--"To My Father, and Your Father"
Post by: Richard Myers on November 28, 2023, 08:54:14 AM

Amen my dear friends! What a way to end this most beautiful Book!

  There is the throne, and around it the rainbow of promise. There are cherubim and seraphim. The commanders of the angel hosts, the sons of God, the representatives of the unfallen worlds, are assembled. The heavenly council before which Lucifer had accused God and His Son, the representatives of those sinless realms over which Satan had thought to establish his dominion,--all are there to welcome the Redeemer. They are eager to celebrate His triumph and to glorify their King.
     But He waves them back. Not yet; He cannot now receive the coronet of glory and the royal robe. He enters into the presence of His Father. He points to His wounded head, the pierced side, the marred feet; He lifts His hands, bearing the print of nails. He points to the tokens of His triumph; He presents to God the wave sheaf, those raised with Him as representatives of that great multitude who shall come forth from the grave at His second coming. He approaches the Father, with whom there is joy over one sinner that repents; who rejoices over one with singing. Before the foundations of the earth were laid, the Father and the Son had united in a covenant to redeem man if he should be overcome by Satan. They had clasped Their hands in a solemn pledge that Christ should become the surety for the human race. This pledge Christ has fulfilled. When upon the cross He cried out, "It is finished," He addressed the Father. The compact had been fully carried out. Now He declares: Father, it is finished. I have done Thy will, O My God. I have completed the work of redemption. If Thy justice is satisfied, "I will that they also, whom Thou hast given Me, be with Me where I am." John 19:30; 17:24.
     The voice of God is heard proclaiming that justice is satisfied. Satan is vanquished. Christ's toiling, struggling ones on earth are "accepted in the Beloved." Ephesians 1:6. Before the heavenly angels and the representatives of unfallen worlds, they are declared justified. Where He is, there His church shall be. "Mercy and truth are met together; righteousness and peace have kissed each other." Psalm 85:10. The Father's arms encircle His Son, and the word is given, "Let all the angels of God worship Him." Hebrews 1:6. 

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--Final Chapter--"To My Father, and Your Father"
Post by: Beacon on February 21, 2024, 08:11:33 PM

"Before the foundations of the earth were laid, the Father and the Son had united in a covenant to redeem man if he should be overcome by Satan."

"They had clasped Their hands in a solemn pledge that Christ should become the surety if man failed."

"This pledge Christ has fulfilled."

"When upon the cross He cried out, "It is finished," He addressed the Father. The compact had been fully carried out. Now He declares: Father, it is finished. I have done Thy will, O My God. I have completed the work of redemption. If Thy justice is satisfied, "I will that they also, whom Thou hast given Me, be with Me where I am." John 19:30; 17:24."

"The voice of God is heard proclaiming that justice is satisfied. Satan is vanquished."

"Christ's toiling, struggling ones on earth are "accepted in the Beloved." Ephesians 1:6. Before the heavenly angels and the representatives of unfallen worlds, they are declared justified. "

"Where He is, there His church shall be."
"Mercy and truth are met together; righteousness and peace have kissed each other." Psalm 85:10."

"The Father's arms encircle His Son, and the word is given, "Let all the angels of God worship Him." Hebrews 1:6."

Are "WE" willing to join with the angels of God and praise His Holy Name??

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

1
Alas! and did my Savior bleed?
  And did my Sov’reign die,
Would He devote that sacred head
  For such a worm as I?
2
Was it for sins that I had done
  He groaned upon the tree?
Amazing pity! grace unknown!
  And love beyond degree!
3
Well might the sun in darkness hide,
  And shut his glories in,
When the incarnate Maker died
  For man, His creature’s sin.
4
Thus might I hide my blushing face
  While His dear cross appears
Dissolve my heart in thankfulness,
  And melt mine eyes to tears.
5
But drops of grief can ne’er repay
  The debt of love I owe;
Here Lord, I give myself away:
  ’Tis all that I can do.

Lyrics:Isaac Watts (1674-1748)
Music:Hugh Wilson (1766-1824)

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--Final Chapter--"To My Father, and Your Father"
Post by: Pastor Sean Brizendine on February 22, 2024, 06:34:53 AM

Amen, Brother Beacon!!

Like a bouquet of flowers or a handful of thorns, there are two character crops ripening up in these closing moments of earth's history. Jesus already fully defeated Satan, offering to make us like a flower of grace that blossoms and reflects His infinite loveliness. Satan, though he lost the great controversy, is simply trying to pull the wool over people's eyes and lead them to trust the world, the flesh and his deceptive lies so they will reject the infinite love of God and eternal life that He freely offers us, leading souls to be like thorns of rebellion. So we choose if we become like flowers or thorns, by the daily choices we make to either look afresh to Jesus and yield the whole heart to Him, or resist Him and go in the path of self and sin. All of the fruits of the Spirit will flow in and through our lives as we are completely surrendered to Christ and abide in Him by constant union and communion of our souls with Him! Affectionate obedience to all of God's commandments is the inevitable result of truly knowing and loving God as it is our privilege! So who would you rather follow? We either follow a rouge insane angel named Lucifer who turned by his unfounded, proud accusations against God into Satan or an infinitely good, merciful, just Creator who risked His very existence in Christ so you could have eternal life! Hopefully the choice is obvious! CHOOSE CHRIST, and ask for His wisdom and submission to be wrought out in your life to follow all He has said in His word and counsel!! Praise God!!

"The voice of God is heard proclaiming that justice is satisfied. Satan is vanquished. Christ's toiling, struggling ones on earth are “accepted in the Beloved.” Ephesians 1:6. Before the heavenly angels and the representatives of unfallen worlds, they are declared justified. Where He is, there His church shall be. “Mercy and truth are met together; righteousness and peace have kissed each other.” Psalm 85:10. The Father's arms encircle His Son, and the word is given, “Let all the angels of God worship Him.” Hebrews 1:6." {The Desire of Ages, page 834, paragraph 3}

Because we were created to repopulate heaven, as sadly Lucifer and a third of the angels fell by rebellion and sin, being cast out of heaven, we can choose to align our lives with the Creator's purpose to herald the Three Angels' Messages (Revelation 14:6-12) and go to the ends of the earth to reach souls--or even the people right in our own homes and neighborhoods! Jesus is coming soon!

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--Final Chapter--"To My Father, and Your Father"
Post by: Dorine on February 22, 2024, 06:44:55 AM

"The disciples no longer had any distrust of the future. They knew that Jesus was in heaven, and that His sympathies were with them still. They knew that they had a friend at the throne of God, and they were eager to present their requests to the Father in the name of Jesus. In solemn awe they bowed in prayer, repeating the assurance, "Whatsoever ye shall ask the Father in My name, He will give it you. Hitherto have ye asked nothing in My name: ask, and ye shall receive, that your joy may be full." John 16:23, 24. They extended the hand of faith higher and higher, with the mighty argument, "It is Christ that died, yea rather, that is risen again, who is even at the right hand of God, who also maketh intercession for us." Romans 8:34. And Pentecost brought them fullness of joy in the presence of the Comforter, even as Christ had promised."

That same friend of the disciples is our faithful and triumphant friend also. We are almost home. The night is almost over. May we never allow the cares of this life in any form pull us away from trusting fully in our precious Saviour.

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--Final Chapter--"To My Father, and Your Father"
Post by: Richard Myers on February 22, 2024, 09:06:24 AM

Amen my dear friends! What joy there is to again here the statement from Christ of how much He loves you and me!!

     The heavenly council before which Lucifer had accused God and His Son, the representatives of those sinless realms over which Satan had thought to establish his dominion,--all are there to welcome the Redeemer. They are eager to celebrate His triumph and to glorify their King.
     But He waves them back. Not yet; He cannot now receive the coronet of glory and the royal robe. He enters into the presence of His Father. He points to His wounded head, the pierced side, the marred feet; He lifts His hands, bearing the print of nails. He points to the tokens of His triumph; He presents to God the wave sheaf, those raised with Him as representatives of that great multitude who shall come forth from the grave at His second coming. He approaches the Father, with whom there is joy over one sinner that repents; who rejoices over one with singing. Before the foundations of the earth were laid, the Father and the Son had united in a covenant to redeem man if he should be overcome by Satan. They had clasped Their hands in a solemn pledge that Christ should become the surety for the human race. This pledge Christ has fulfilled. When upon the cross He cried out, "It is finished," He addressed the Father. The compact had been fully carried out. Now He declares: Father, it is finished. I have done Thy will, O My God. I have completed the work of redemption. If Thy justice is satisfied, "I will that they also, whom Thou hast given Me, be with Me where I am." John 19:30; 17:24. 

In Gen 3:15 we read about this pledge, the everlasting covenant which was made before the foundation of the Earth was laid. There were two conditions to be fulfilled before the sinner would have this enmity towards Satan and sin. Christ fulfilled His part and our heavenly Father acknowledged He had suffered enough that every human would have an opportunity to be saved and live forever in a world without sin. Why then will not all be saved? Because the second condition has to be fulfilled by the sinner. Every sin must be confessed and forsaken. Only repentant sinners will be in heaven. God does not forgive known sins which are not repented of. We must love the Lord our God with ALL of the heart. And when we love God with the whole heart, we will not sin a known sin. We have no protection from the smallest temptation unless we abide in Christ and the Holy Spirit has control of the heart. We are then partakers of the divine nature and given power to resist all temptations that God allows to come to us. In Christ we will not be tempted beyond what we can bear. It is a most precious promise. Our part is to be fully surrendered to God. To trust Him with all we have and all we are.

Tomorrow we shall begin anew beholding the life of Jesus daily. Such blessings we desire to share with all who are seeking to prepare for a life in a world without sin for eternity. Jesus is even at the doors. We have no time to waste. Let us spend that thoughtful hour day contemplating the life of Jesus. It is by beholding His glory that we are transformed into His character (2 Cor. 3:18). If you want to share your thoughts with us, send an email to   administrator@remnant-online.com    and we will register you so you can post your thoughts.  Otherwise registration has been suspended due to hacking.

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--Final Chapter--"To My Father, and Your Father"
Post by: Beacon on May 18, 2024, 08:04:30 PM

"Before the foundations of the earth were laid, the Father and the Son had united in a covenant to redeem man if he should be overcome by Satan."

They had clasped Their hands in a solemn pledge that Christ should become the surety for the human race."

"This pledge Christ has fulfilled."


"When upon the cross He cried out, "It is finished," He addressed the Father. The compact had been fully carried out."

"Now He declares: Father, it is finished. I have done Thy will, O My God."


"I have completed the work of redemption.


"If Thy justice is satisfied, "I will that they also, whom Thou hast given Me, be with Me where I am."

How wonderful it is to know that "OUR" salvation is secure through the sacrifice of Jesus. Join with me as sing " All to Jesus I surrender "

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

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--Final Chapter--"To My Father, and Your Father"
Post by: Dorine on May 19, 2024, 04:43:10 AM

"The voice of God is heard proclaiming that justice is satisfied. Satan is vanquished. Christ's toiling, struggling ones on earth are "accepted in the Beloved." Ephesians 1:6. Before the heavenly angels and the representatives of unfallen worlds, they are declared justified. Where He is, there His church shall be. "Mercy and truth are met together; righteousness and peace have kissed each other." Psalm 85:10. The Father's arms encircle His Son, and the word is given, "Let all the angels of God worship Him." Hebrews 1:6.      
With joy unutterable, rulers and principalities and powers acknowledge the supremacy of the Prince of life. The angel host prostrate themselves before Him, while the glad shout fills all the courts of heaven, "Worthy is the Lamb that was slain to receive power, and riches, and wisdom, and strength, and honor, and glory, and blessing." Revelation 5:12.      Songs of triumph mingle with the music from angel harps, till heaven seems to overflow with joy and praise. Love has conquered. The lost is found. Heaven rings with voices in lofty strains proclaiming, "Blessing, and honor, and glory, and power, be unto Him that sitteth upon the throne, and unto the Lamb forever and ever." Revelation 5:13.


Just a little glimpse of heaven we see but oh how glorious. No matter how vivid our imagination is it only gives us a small glimpse of what is in store for God's people. There are so many who have not heard of the beautiful future that awaits those who give their hearts to God. They need to hear the story of salvation. But heaven can start right here, right now. We can experience the peace, love and joy that comes only from our God. It's those divine attributes seen in us, found in Galatians 5:22,23 that will melt many a hard, selfish heart and bring them into a saving relationship with Jesus. Let praise to God be heard frequently from our lips.

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--Final Chapter--"To My Father, and Your Father"
Post by: Pastor Sean Brizendine on May 19, 2024, 07:04:04 PM

Amen, Brother Beacon and Sister Dorine!

It's accessible. It might not feel like it, but by faith, it is. You and I are invited to join Jesus on His throne. Do we deserve it? No--but it is a gift of infinite grace. His grace is so powerful that it not only secures our eternal destiny if we truly believe and walk in that reality, but it transforms us to become like Him with pure and holy thoughts, feelings, motives, purposes and actions that are the outflow of continual union and communion with Jesus in total acquiescence. Are you willing to be made willing? Then He can so mold and fashion your life by the Holy Spirit that you can prepare to enjoy the society of holy angels. Rejoice! Jesus is coming again soon!! He fills us with all of the fruits of the Spirit without one missing to such a degree that the fallen nature, the world and the devil are kept continually in subjection to the Infinite God whose love is measureless and eternal. In this experience, there is no limit. Watch and pray, keeping your eyes on Jesus. It just gets better and better. Experience a life of total surrender. The throne is waiting for you to sit on it, too!

The following is taken from The Desire of Ages, page 834, and it vividly illustrates this glorious reality available to every repentant sinner willing to be transformed by God's grace:

There is the throne, and around it the rainbow of promise. There are cherubim and seraphim. The commanders of the angel hosts, the sons of God, the representatives of the unfallen worlds, are assembled. The heavenly council before which Lucifer had accused God and His Son, the representatives of those sinless realms over which Satan had thought to establish his dominion,—all are there to welcome the Redeemer. They are eager to celebrate His triumph and to glorify their King.

But He waves them back. Not yet; He cannot now receive the coronet of glory and the royal robe. He enters into the presence of His Father. He points to His wounded head, the pierced side, the marred feet; He lifts His hands, bearing the print of nails. He points to the tokens of His triumph; He presents to God the wave sheaf, those raised with Him as representatives of that great multitude who shall come forth from the grave at His second coming. He approaches the Father, with whom there is joy over one sinner that repents; who rejoices over one with singing. Before the foundations of the earth were laid, the Father and the Son had united in a covenant to redeem man if he should be overcome by Satan. They had clasped Their hands in a solemn pledge that Christ should become the surety for the human race. This pledge Christ has fulfilled. When upon the cross He cried out, "It is finished," He addressed the Father. The compact had been fully carried out. Now He declares: Father, it is finished. I have done Thy will, O My God. I have completed the work of redemption. If Thy justice is satisfied, "I will that they also, whom Thou hast given Me, be with Me where I am." John 19:30; 17:24.

The voice of God is heard proclaiming that justice is satisfied. Satan is vanquished. Christ's toiling, struggling ones on earth are "accepted in the Beloved." Ephesians 1:6. Before the heavenly angels and the representatives of unfallen worlds, they are declared justified. Where He is, there His church shall be. "Mercy and truth are met together; righteousness and peace have kissed each other." Psalm 85:10. The Father's arms encircle His Son, and the word is given, "Let all the angels of God worship Him." Hebrews 1:6.

With joy unutterable, rulers and principalities and powers acknowledge the supremacy of the Prince of life. The angel host prostrate themselves before Him, while the glad shout fills all the courts of heaven, "Worthy is the Lamb that was slain to receive power, and riches, and wisdom, and strength, and honor, and glory, and blessing." Revelation 5:12.

Songs of triumph mingle with the music from angel harps, till heaven seems to overflow with joy and praise. Love has conquered. The lost is found. Heaven rings with voices in lofty strains proclaiming, "Blessing, and honor, and glory, and power, be unto Him that sitteth upon the throne, and unto the Lamb forever and ever." Revelation 5:13.

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--Final Chapter--"To My Father, and Your Father"
Post by: Beacon on August 13, 2024, 08:12:14 PM

"Jesus approaches the Father, with whom there is joy over one sinner that repents; who rejoices over one with singing. Before the foundations of the earth were laid, the Father and the Son had united in a covenant to redeem man if he should be overcome by Satan."

"They had clasped Their hands in a solemn pledge that Christ should become the surety for the human race."

"This pledge Christ has fulfilled."

"When upon the cross He cried out, "It is finished," He addressed the Father."

"The compact had been fully carried out."

"Now He declares: Father, it is finished. I have done Thy will, O My God."

"I have completed the work of redemption."

"If Thy justice is satisfied, "I will that they also, whom Thou hast given Me, be with Me where I am." John 19:30; 17:24. "

Jesus' Mission to Earth had been completed!! Now Jesus is just waiting until the plan of Redemption has been completed and He will Come Again to take His Redeemed to the Eternal Glories that await them. Will "WE"  be ready??

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


1
Redeemed—how I love to proclaim it!
Redeemed by the blood of the Lamb;
Redeemed through His infinite mercy,
His child, and forever, I am.
    Redeemed, redeemed,
Redeemed by the blood of the Lamb;
Redeemed, redeemed,
  His child, and forever, I am.
2
Redeemed and so happy in Jesus,
No language my rapture can tell;
I know that the light of His presence
With me doth continually dwell.
3
I think of my blessed Redeemer,
I think of Him all the day long;
I sing, for I cannot be silent;
His love is the theme of my song.
4
I know I shall see in His beauty
The King in whose way I delight;
Who lovingly guardeth my footsteps,
And giveth me songs in the night.

Lyrics:Fanny Jane Crosby (1820-1915)
Music:William James Kirkpatrick (1838-1921)

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--Final Chapter--"To My Father, and Your Father"
Post by: Dorine on August 14, 2024, 03:54:47 AM

From that scene of heavenly joy, there comes back to us on earth the echo of Christ's own wonderful words, "I ascend unto My Father, and your Father; and to My God, and your God." John 20:17. The family of heaven and the family of earth are one. For us our Lord ascended, and for us He lives. "Wherefore He is able also to save them to the uttermost that come unto God by Him, seeing He ever liveth to make intercession for them." Hebrews 7:25.

A beautiful ending to this divinely inspired book. May our lives be full of joy just as the disciples had as they spread the wonderful news that Jesus is alive and sitting at the right hand of His Father and all who will may enter that blessed abode.

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--Final Chapter--"To My Father, and Your Father"
Post by: JimB on August 14, 2024, 06:17:37 AM

Will not His affections be centered upon that realm where He is appreciated, and where sinless angels wait to do His bidding? No; His promise to those loved ones whom He leaves on earth is, "I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world." Matthew 28:20.

What love! In an earlier chapter it was that Heaven wasn't a place that He desired without us. That is practically incomprehensible.

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--Final Chapter--"To My Father, and Your Father"
Post by: Pastor Sean Brizendine on August 14, 2024, 07:09:33 AM

How do you see the future? Are you afraid? Well, we can learn a valuable lesson from the life and experience of the disciples that because of Christ's resurrection and the fact that He keeps His promises, we do not need to live in fear for the future--we can trust Him and let Him be all in all to us! All of the fruits of the Spirit without one missing will flow forth in the life of those who abide in Him in total surrender; a true experience of affectionate obedience to God's commandments will be manifest in the life because Christ lives within, the hope of glory!

"The disciples no longer had any distrust of the future. They knew that Jesus was in heaven, and that His sympathies were with them still. They knew that they had a friend at the throne of God, and they were eager to present their requests to the Father in the name of Jesus. In solemn awe they bowed in prayer, repeating the assurance, 'Whatsoever ye shall ask the Father in My name, He will give it you. Hitherto have ye asked nothing in My name: ask, and ye shall receive, that your joy may be full.' John 16:23, 24. They extended the hand of faith higher and higher, with the mighty argument, 'It is Christ that died, yea rather, that is risen again, who is even at the right hand of God, who also maketh intercession for us.' Romans 8:34. And Pentecost brought them fullness of joy in the presence of the Comforter, even as Christ had promised." {The Desire of Ages, page 833, paragraph 1}

Asking in faith for God to lead us, we can trust His divine guidance and grace! We can look and live, thrive in His righteousness, and overcome daily by staying vitally connected to His power, love, and sound mind offered us in His word through the vitalizing ministry of the Holy Spirit! While there are many trials on the horizon preceding the second coming of Jesus, we can study Daniel and Revelation to see that God foreknows the events to come, gives us warning and encouragement so we can face the coming trials, and offers us His divine presence at each step to help us do His will in spreading the gospel to every nation, kindred, tongue and people that helps hasten Christ's return! "And this gospel of the kingdom shall be preached in all the world for a witness unto all nations; and then shall the end come" (Matthew 24:14).

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--Final Chapter--"To My Father, and Your Father"
Post by: Richard Myers on August 14, 2024, 06:09:36 PM

Amen my dear family!  It is a joy to read what has impressed you today. It was hard for me to decide what to share, there is so much. In the end, I am going to share what I often share at the end of this wonderful book. I probably have explained this many times, but if not, let say why I choose this truth after I post it.

     The voice of God is heard proclaiming that justice is satisfied. Satan is vanquished. Christ's toiling, struggling ones on earth are "accepted in the Beloved." Ephesians 1:6. Before the heavenly angels and the representatives of unfallen worlds, they are declared justified. Where He is, there His church shall be. "Mercy and truth are met together; righteousness and peace have kissed each other." Psalm 85:10. The Father's arms encircle His Son, and the word is given, "Let all the angels of God worship Him." Hebrews 1:6. 

There is a wonderful truth in that as we struggle today and tomorrow, we are accepted in the Beloved because "Mercy and truth are met together; righteousness and peace have kissed each other" at the cross. Imagine the joy and pride our heavenly Father had at that time as His Son went to a peaceful sleep. Well, as good as that is, it is the next statement that causes me to fall on my face. The Father's arms encircle His Son. Our heavenly Father had watched His Son suffer for 30 years. It was not easy for Him to agree with His innocent Son that He might be our Redeemer at such a great cost and a great risk.  They are united once again! The separation crushed our Savior. What must it have done to our Father! Here we can see the arms of our heavenly Father encircle His Son. All we can do, is do all we can to thank them for suffering that we might live in a world without sin! What love is this, what marvelous, unfathomable love that would lead them to suffer for us while we were yet sinners Let us praise them over and over and over!!

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--Final Chapter--"To My Father, and Your Father"
Post by: Beacon on November 08, 2024, 07:44:52 PM

"The Disciple's knew that they had a friend at the throne of God, and they were eager to present their requests to the Father in the name of Jesus."

"In solemn awe they bowed in prayer, repeating the assurance."

'Whatsoever ye shall ask the Father in My name, He will give it you. Hitherto have ye asked nothing in My name: ask, and ye shall receive, that your joy may be full.' John 16:23, 24."

"They extended the hand of faith higher and higher, with the mighty argument...

"It is Christ that died, yea rather, that is risen again, who is even at the right hand of God, who also maketh intercession for us.' Romans 8: "

"Pentecost brought them fullness of joy in the presence of the Comforter, even as Christ had promised."

We also can have the Fulness of Joy "IF" we are willing to make Jesus First& Last in all things!!

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

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 (1847-190

HAPPY SABATH TO ALL GOD'S FAMILY ON EARTH AND AROUND HIS VAST UNIVERSE

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--Final Chapter--"To My Father, and Your Father"
Post by: Beacon on November 08, 2024, 08:01:18 PM

"The Disciple's knew that they had a friend at the throne of God, and they were eager to present their requests to the Father in the name of Jesus."

"In solemn awe they bowed in prayer, repeating the assurance."

'Whatsoever ye shall ask the Father in My name, He will give it you. Hitherto have ye asked nothing in My name: ask, and ye shall receive, that your joy may be full.' John 16:23, 24."

"They extended the hand of faith higher and higher, with the mighty argument...

"It is Christ that died, yea rather, that is risen again, who is even at the right hand of God, who also maketh intercession for us.' Romans 8: "

"Pentecost brought them fullness of joy in the presence of the Comforter, even as Christ had promised."

We also can have the Fulness of Joy "IF" we are willing to make Jesus First& Last in all things!!

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

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 (1847-190


HAPPY SABBATH TO ALL GOD'S FAMILY ON EARTH AND AROUND HIS VAST UNIVERSE

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--Final Chapter--"To My Father, and Your Father"
Post by: Dorine on November 09, 2024, 03:57:59 AM

Christ had ascended to heaven in the form of humanity. The disciples had beheld the cloud receive Him. The same Jesus who had walked and talked and prayed with them; who had broken bread with them; who had been with them in their boats on the lake; and who had that very day toiled with them up the ascent of Olivet,--the same Jesus had now gone to share His Father's throne. And the angels had assured them that the very One whom they had seen go up into heaven, would come again even as He had ascended. He will come "with clouds; and every eye shall see Him." "The Lord Himself shall descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the Archangel, and with the trump of God: and the dead in Christ shall rise." "The Son of man shall come in His glory, and all the holy angels with Him, then shall He sit upon the throne of His glory." Revelation 1:7; 1 Thessalonians 4:16; Matthew 25:31. Thus will be fulfilled the Lord's own promise to His disciples: "If I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto Myself; that where I am, there ye may be also." John 14:3. Well might the disciples rejoice in the hope of their Lord's return.

This is the most uplifting message for me. To think that Jesus will forever be linked together with us as our brother fills me with joy and wonder.  I love to meditate on the description of His return. What a glorious day that will be. I can not resist His magnificent grace. May each reader here have that abiding connection with Jesus every moment of the day. We are soon to see that small dark cloud in the Eastern sky and watch until the whole sky is lighted up with the glory of heavenly beings. Graves will open and give up those souls who have been faithful followers of Jesus. And together we will rise to be with Him for evermore. Commit yourselves to Him and determine in your heart that no matter what happens in this life your loyalty will be to Jesus.

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--Final Chapter--"To My Father, and Your Father"
Post by: Philip T on November 09, 2024, 04:39:52 AM

   From that scene of heavenly joy, there comes back to us on earth the echo of Christ's own wonderful words, "I ascend unto My Father, and your Father; and to My God, and your God." John 20:17. The family of heaven and the family of earth are one. For us our Lord ascended, and for us He lives. "Wherefore He is able also to save them to the uttermost that come unto God by Him, seeing He ever liveth to make intercession for them." Hebrews 7:25.

    This was a chapter of joy, it shows the love of heaven to Jesus, Jesus' abiding love for mankind, and I liked this paragraph, it shows both and the Joy and love of Jesus for us, the promise that Jesus is our intercessor in heaven and is still attuned to us here on earth and salvation comes through Jesus.

Happy Sabbath.

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--Final Chapter--"To My Father, and Your Father"
Post by: JimB on February 04, 2025, 05:02:37 AM

Upon reaching the Mount of Olives, Jesus led the way across the summit, to the vicinity of Bethany. Here He paused, and the disciples gathered about Him. Beams of light seemed to radiate from His countenance as He looked lovingly upon them. He upbraided them not for their faults and failures; words of the deepest tenderness were the last that fell upon their ears from the lips of their Lord.

No reprimands for their faults only tender words. What a loving savior we have. He was leaving them and He knew exactly what they needed. So it is with us. He knows exactly what we need which is why sometimes our prayers are not answered with the timing nor the method in which we desire. He knows best!

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--Final Chapter--"To My Father, and Your Father"
Post by: Beacon on February 04, 2025, 03:06:37 PM

"The angels had assured them that the very One whom they had seen go up into heaven, would come again even as He had ascended."

"He will come "with clouds; and every eye shall see Him." "The Lord Himself shall descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the Archangel, and with the trump of God: and the dead in Christ shall rise." "The Son of man shall come in His glory, and all the holy angels with Him, then shall He sit upon the throne of His glory." Revelation 1:7; 1 Thessalonians 4:16; Matthew 25:31. Thus will be fulfilled the Lord's own promise to His disciples: "If I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto Myself; that where I am, there ye may be also." John 14:3. Well might the disciples rejoice in the hope of their Lord's return."

How wonderful to know how Jesus will return - We need not tricked! May "WE" be reading Gods Word Day by Day.

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

1
Stand up! stand up for Jesus!
  Ye soldiers of the cross;
Lift high His royal banner,
  It must not suffer loss:
From vict’ry unto vict’ry
  His army shall He lead,
Till every foe is vanquished
  And Christ is Lord indeed.
 
Stand up for Jesus
Ye soldiers of the cross;
Lift high His royal banner,
  It must not, it must not suffer loss.
2
Stand up! stand up for Jesus!
  The trumpet call obey;
Forth to the mighty conflict
  In this His glorious day.
Ye that are men, now serve Him
  Against unnumbered foes;
Let courage rise with danger.
  And strength to strength oppose.
3
Stand up! stand up for Jesus!
  Stand in His strength alone;
The arm of flesh will fail you;
  Ye dare not trust your own.
Put on the Gospel armor,
  And, watching unto prayer,
Where duty calls, or danger,
  Be never wanting there.
4
Stand up! stand up for Jesus!
  The strife will not be long:
This day the noise of battle,
  The next the victor’s song;
To him that overcometh
  A crown of life shall be;
He, with the King of glory,
  Shall reign eternally.

Lyrics:George Duffield (1818-1888)
Music:Adam Geibel (1855-1933

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--Final Chapter--"To My Father, and Your Father"
Post by: Richard Myers on February 04, 2025, 10:51:06 PM

Amen Brother Beacon and Brother Jim! What joy to complete reading this most wonderful revelation of the character of our Lord!! We have nothing to fear except we forget what we know of Him!

He enters into the presence of His Father. He points to His wounded head, the pierced side, the marred feet; He lifts His hands, bearing the print of nails. He points to the tokens of His triumph; He presents to God the wave sheaf, those raised with Him as representatives of that great multitude who shall come forth from the grave at His second coming. He approaches the Father, with whom there is joy over one sinner that repents; who rejoices over one with singing. Before the foundations of the earth were laid, the Father and the Son had united in a covenant to redeem man if he should be overcome by Satan. They had clasped Their hands in a solemn pledge that Christ should become the surety for the human race. This pledge Christ has fulfilled. When upon the cross He cried out, "It is finished," He addressed the Father. The compact had been fully carried out. Now He declares: Father, it is finished. I have done Thy will, O My God. I have completed the work of redemption. If Thy justice is satisfied, "I will that they also, whom Thou hast given Me, be with Me where I am." John 19:30; 17:24. 

Always thinking of you! Such love!!

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--Final Chapter--"To My Father, and Your Father"
Post by: Pastor Sean Brizendine on May 01, 2025, 07:04:27 PM

Do we truly grasp the depth of the Father's love for Jesus? Oh, what a sacrifice the Father made to give His Son to come to this dark spot in the universe, to live a perfect life amid so much temptation and trial, to bear our sin, die as our sacrifice on the cross suffering for every sin--the Father's heart felt it beyond what we can ever know. But when Jesus had finished His work on earth and ascended to the Father, imagine the IMMENSE LOVE that overflowed in their union!! Oh, what a joy it is that we get to be part of this family!! The Godhead loves us so much! The Holy Spirit is the one who comes to live in our hearts and help us appreciate the depth of God's love! Let His arms encircle you today by faith as we look forward to the day when He will encircle us, too!!!! As we surrender our WHOLE heart to Christ, all of the fruits of the Spirit will be manifest in our lives to reveal God's character! Let's stay vitally connected to the love of God that is infinite!!!

"The Father's arms encircle His Son, and the word is given, 'Let all the angels of God worship Him.' Hebrews 1:6." {The Desire of Ages, page 834, paragraph 3}

My heart is SO GLAD that the greatest truth in the universe is that "God is love" (1 John 4:16).

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--Final Chapter--"To My Father, and Your Father"
Post by: JimB on May 02, 2025, 04:49:49 AM

Amen pastor Sean!

When the disciples went back to Jerusalem, the people looked upon them with amazement. After the trial and crucifixion of Christ, it had been thought that they would appear downcast and ashamed. Their enemies expected to see upon their faces an expression of sorrow and defeat. Instead of this there was only gladness and triumph. Their faces were aglow with a happiness not born of earth. They did not mourn over disappointed hopes, but were full of praise and thanksgiving to God. With rejoicing they told the wonderful story of Christ's resurrection and His ascension to heaven, and their testimony was received by many.

This scene will more or less be repeated at His 2nd coming. His true disciples will look up and shout for joy while everyone else will run and wish the rocks would fall on them. The tables will be turned! Let us remain faithful till the end as He has promised to be with us to the end!

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--Final Chapter--"To My Father, and Your Father"
Post by: Richard Myers on May 02, 2025, 07:39:51 AM

Amen Brother Jim and Pastor Sean!!  A message entrusted to us that the world might know our God!! Something to note is that Jesus already knew His sacrifice was sufficient that all might be saved if they would be transformed.  Jesus had made a trip prior to His last communion with His disciples. We remember He told Mary to not touch Him. He was then anxious to know if His suffering was enough. "Jesus saith unto her, Touch me not; for I am not yet ascended to my Father: but go to my brethren, and say unto them, I ascend unto my Father, and your Father; and [to] my God, and your God." John 20:17.  He then returned to spend time with His disciples, then went again for a formal reception.

The heavenly council before which Lucifer had accused God and His Son, the representatives of those sinless realms over which Satan had thought to establish his dominion,--all are there to welcome the Redeemer. They are eager to celebrate His triumph and to glorify their King.
     But He waves them back. Not yet; He cannot now receive the coronet of glory and the royal robe. He enters into the presence of His Father. He points to His wounded head, the pierced side, the marred feet; He lifts His hands, bearing the print of nails. He points to the tokens of His triumph; He presents to God the wave sheaf, those raised with Him as representatives of that great multitude who shall come forth from the grave at His second coming. He approaches the Father, with whom there is joy over one sinner that repents; who rejoices over one with singing. Before the foundations of the earth were laid, the Father and the Son had united in a covenant to redeem man if he should be overcome by Satan. They had clasped Their hands in a solemn pledge that Christ should become the surety for the human race. This pledge Christ has fulfilled. When upon the cross He cried out, "It is finished," He addressed the Father. The compact had been fully carried out. Now He declares: Father, it is finished. I have done Thy will, O My God. I have completed the work of redemption. If Thy justice is satisfied, "I will that they also, whom Thou hast given Me, be with Me where I am." John 19:30; 17:24.
     The voice of God is heard proclaiming that justice is satisfied. Satan is vanquished. Christ's toiling, struggling ones on earth are "accepted in the Beloved." Ephesians 1:6. Before the heavenly angels and the representatives of unfallen worlds, they are declared justified. Where He is, there His church shall be. "Mercy and truth are met together; righteousness and peace have kissed each other." Psalm 85:10. The Father's arms encircle His Son, and the word is given, "Let all the angels of God worship Him." Hebrews 1:6.   DA 832. 

What a wonderful God we serve!!! He wants us to tell the world of His great love and justice. When we have done this, then Jesus will come and take us home!!

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--Final Chapter--"To My Father, and Your Father"
Post by: Beacon on May 02, 2025, 10:44:28 AM

"The heavenly council before which Lucifer had accused God and His Son, the representatives of those sinless realms over which Satan had thought to establish his dominion,--all are there to welcome the Redeemer. They are eager to celebrate His triumph and to glorify their King."

 "But He waves them back."

"Not yet; He cannot now receive the coronet of glory and the royal robe. He enters into the presence of His Father. He points to His wounded head, the pierced side, the marred feet; He lifts His hands, bearing the print of nails. He points to the tokens of His triumph;" "He presents to God the wave sheaf, those raised with Him as representatives of that great multitude who shall come forth from the grave at His second coming. He approaches the Father, with whom there is joy over one sinner that repents; who rejoices over one with singing. Before the foundations of the earth were laid, the Father and the Son had united in a covenant to redeem man if he should be overcome by Satan. They had clasped Their hands in a solemn pledge that Christ should become the surety for the human race."

"This pledge Christ has fulfilled. When upon the cross He cried out, "It is finished," He addressed the Father. The compact had been fully carried out. Now He declares: Father, it is finished. I have done Thy will, O My God. I have completed the work of redemption. If Thy justice is satisfied, "I will that they also, whom Thou hast given Me, be with Me where I am." John 19:30; 17:24.
" The voice of God is heard proclaiming that justice is satisfied. Satan is vanquished."

"Christ's toiling, struggling ones on earth are "accepted in the Beloved." Ephesians 1:6. Before the heavenly angels and the representatives of unfallen worlds, they are declared justified. Where He is, there His church shall be. "Mercy and truth are met together; righteousness and peace have kissed each other." Psalm 85:10. The Father's arms encircle His Son, and the word is given, "Let all the angels of God worship Him." Hebrews 1:6."

How thankful "WE" should be - Jesús paid it all !!

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

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

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--Final Chapter--"To My Father, and Your Father"
Post by: Dorine on May 03, 2025, 04:13:05 AM

From that scene of heavenly joy, there comes back to us on earth the echo of Christ's own wonderful words, "I ascend unto My Father, and your Father; and to My God, and your God." John 20:17. The family of heaven and the family of earth are one. For us our Lord ascended, and for us He lives. "Wherefore He is able also to save them to the uttermost that come unto God by Him, seeing He ever liveth to make intercession for them." Hebrews 7:25.

After reading this chapter how can anyone doubt God's love for mankind? With each reading His love becomes deeper and richer and fills my heart with sorrow when in a split second I may look away from Him. But there is no condemnation just a look of deep sadness and love and longing to be reunited again. Satan would like us to believe that there is no hope for us. That we are too evil. But Jesus has proven Him wrong. Who are we going to believe? I choose Jesus for where else is there to go that will bring peace and joy to my heart and transform my heart from self to love service for others?

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--Final Chapter--"To My Father, and Your Father"
Post by: Richard Myers on July 27, 2025, 06:49:18 AM

Amen my dear sister!! What a message we have to share with the world!! What a God we serve!! Once again we have been greatly blessed with a growing knowledge of our Savior, His Father (our Father) and the Holy Spirit. We love them because they first loved us!! And as our dear sister has shared, how shameful that we would look away from Him, but we understand that when we do, our Savior does not abandon us, but rather stands at the door pleading that we invite Him back in. We sorrow that so few will take time every day to behold their love. The world as little time for Jesus. Every day they are distracted from spending a thoughtful hour with Him who gave all that we might have eternal life in a world without sin.

My mind was drawn to a statement that we all know is true, but is not often seen.


     The time had come for Christ to ascend to His Father's throne. As a divine conqueror He was about to return with the trophies of victory to the heavenly courts. Before His death He had declared to His Father, "I have finished the work which Thou gavest Me to do." John 17:4. After His resurrection He tarried on earth for a season, that His disciples might become familiar with Him in His risen and glorified body. Now He was ready for the leave-taking. He had authenticated the fact that He was a living Saviour. His disciples need no longer associate Him with the tomb. They could think of Him as glorified before the heavenly universe.   

When Jesus came forth from the tomb, Mary did not recognize Him until she heard His voice. Why did she not recognize Him? He came forth in a glorified body. Neither did the disciples recognize Him when He entered into the upper room after His resurrection. Even though He was in a glorified body, His glory had to be hid that humans would not be consumed.

What is our message that we are to take to the whole world?

    He enters into the presence of His Father. He points to His wounded head, the pierced side, the marred feet; He lifts His hands, bearing the print of nails. He points to the tokens of His triumph; He presents to God the wave sheaf, those raised with Him as representatives of that great multitude who shall come forth from the grave at His second coming. He approaches the Father, with whom there is joy over one sinner that repents; who rejoices over one with singing. Before the foundations of the earth were laid, the Father and the Son had united in a covenant to redeem man if he should be overcome by Satan. They had clasped Their hands in a solemn pledge that Christ should become the surety for the human race. This pledge Christ has fulfilled. When upon the cross He cried out, "It is finished," He addressed the Father. The compact had been fully carried out. Now He declares: Father, it is finished. I have done Thy will, O My God. I have completed the work of redemption. If Thy justice is satisfied, "I will that they also, whom Thou hast given Me, be with Me where I am." John 19:30; 17:24.
     The voice of God is heard proclaiming that justice is satisfied. Satan is vanquished. Christ's toiling, struggling ones on earth are "accepted in the Beloved." Ephesians 1:6. Before the heavenly angels and the representatives of unfallen worlds, they are declared justified. Where He is, there His church shall be. "Mercy and truth are met together; righteousness and peace have kissed each other." Psalm 85:10. The Father's arms encircle His Son, and the word is given, "Let all the angels of God worship Him." Hebrews 1:6. 

Invite your friends to join with us in spending a thoughtful  hour a day contemplating the life  of Jesus. Tell them that by beholding Jesus every day we will be transformed into His character (2 Cor. 3:18)!! It is a Bible promise!! Don't be discouraged when only a few respond. There is a multitude who are seeking truth, both in the church and in the world. It is our privilege to find them!!

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--Final Chapter--"To My Father, and Your Father"
Post by: Beacon on July 27, 2025, 12:48:59 PM

 Before the foundations of the earth were laid, the Father and the Son had united in a covenant to redeem man if he should be overcome by Satan. They had clasped Their hands in a solemn pledge that Christ should become the surety for the human race."

"This pledge Christ has fulfilled. When upon the cross He cried out, "It is finished," He addressed the Father. The compact had been fully carried out. Now He declares: Father, it is finished. I have done Thy will, O My God. I have completed the work of redemption. If Thy justice is satisfied, "I will that they also, whom Thou hast given Me, be with Me where I am." John 19:30; 17:24.
" The voice of God is heard proclaiming that justice is satisfied. Satan is vanquished."

"Christ's toiling, struggling ones on earth are "accepted in the Beloved." Ephesians 1:6. Before the heavenly angels and the representatives of unfallen worlds, they are declared justified. Where He is, there His church shall be. "Mercy and truth are met together; righteousness and peace have kissed each other." Psalm 85:10. The Father's arms encircle His Son, and the word is given, "Let all the angels of God worship Him." Hebrews 1:6."

How thankful "WE" should be - Jesús paid it all !!

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

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

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--Final Chapter--"To My Father, and Your Father"
Post by: Pastor Sean Brizendine on July 28, 2025, 01:39:40 AM

Amen, Brother Beacon!!

Where do you get your happiness? Well, thankfully, we can see from the disciples' joy of being with their risen Lord that their happiness came from Christ, and was not dependent upon the things of this earth. As we near the second coming of Jesus, well would it be to have such heavenly happiness that is not diminished in times of trial and temptation--a steadfast, calm, inner joy that is overflowing from union and communion with God in Christ by the Holy Spirit! When we choose to have a completely surrendered heart and mind and follow in true obedience to God, the fruits of the Spirit without one missing will be revealed in our lives to bless others and keep us settled in the truth so we cannot be moved. Let us look up! Jesus is coming again! Now is the time to do all we can to save souls!!

"When the disciples went back to Jerusalem, the people looked upon them with amazement. After the trial and crucifixion of Christ, it had been thought that they would appear downcast and ashamed. Their enemies expected to see upon their faces an expression of sorrow and defeat. Instead of this there was only gladness and triumph. Their faces were aglow with a happiness not born of earth. They did not mourn over disappointed hopes, but were full of praise and thanksgiving to God. With rejoicing they told the wonderful story of Christ's resurrection and His ascension to heaven, and their testimony was received by many." {The Desire of Ages, page 832, paragraph 3}

Praise God we can share the testimony Jesus gives us of what He has done in, for, and through us as we cooperate with Him! We have a risen Savior! He is interceding for us in the heavenly sanctuary even now, and He will soon come to take us home to heaven!! Hallelujah!!

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--Final Chapter--"To My Father, and Your Father"
Post by: Dorine on July 28, 2025, 05:16:13 AM

The disciples no longer had any distrust of the future. They knew that Jesus was in heaven, and that His sympathies were with them still. They knew that they had a friend at the throne of God, and they were eager to present their requests to the Father in the name of Jesus. In solemn awe they bowed in prayer, repeating the assurance, "Whatsoever ye shall ask the Father in My name, He will give it you. Hitherto have ye asked nothing in My name: ask, and ye shall receive, that your joy may be full." John 16:23, 24. They extended the hand of faith higher and higher, with the mighty argument, "It is Christ that died, yea rather, that is risen again, who is even at the right hand of God, who also maketh intercession for us." Romans 8:34. And Pentecost brought them fullness of joy in the presence of the Comforter, even as Christ had promised.

Christ is still our friend at the throne of God. Soon He will stand up and the last chapter of this earth's history will be finished. Where will we stand in that great day? May Jesus become more precious to us each day and like the disciples we will have no fear of the future.

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--Final Chapter--"To My Father, and Your Father"
Post by: Richard Myers on October 22, 2025, 06:51:36 AM

Amen dear Sister Dorine! Each day as we read of our Savior, we grow closer and closer to Him who gave all that we might live!!


     There is the throne, and around it the rainbow of promise. There are cherubim and seraphim. The commanders of the angel hosts, the sons of God, the representatives of the unfallen worlds, are assembled. The heavenly council before which Lucifer had accused God and His Son, the representatives of those sinless realms over which Satan had thought to establish his dominion,--all are there to welcome the Redeemer. They are eager to celebrate His triumph and to glorify their King.

     But He waves them back. Not yet; He cannot now receive the coronet of glory and the royal robe. He enters into the presence of His Father. He points to His wounded head, the pierced side, the marred feet; He lifts His hands, bearing the print of nails. He points to the tokens of His triumph; He presents to God the wave sheaf, those raised with Him as representatives of that great multitude who shall come forth from the grave at His second coming. He approaches the Father, with whom there is joy over one sinner that repents; who rejoices over one with singing. Before the foundations of the earth were laid, the Father and the Son had united in a covenant to redeem man if he should be overcome by Satan. They had clasped Their hands in a solemn pledge that Christ should become the surety for the human race. This pledge Christ has fulfilled. When upon the cross He cried out, "It is finished," He addressed the Father. The compact had been fully carried out. Now He declares: Father, it is finished. I have done Thy will, O My God. I have completed the work of redemption. If Thy justice is satisfied, "I will that they also, whom Thou hast given Me, be with Me where I am." John 19:30; 17:24.

     The voice of God is heard proclaiming that justice is satisfied. Satan is vanquished. Christ's toiling, struggling ones on earth are "accepted in the Beloved." Ephesians 1:6. Before the heavenly angels and the representatives of unfallen worlds, they are declared justified. Where He is, there His church shall be. "Mercy and truth are met together; righteousness and peace have kissed each other." Psalm 85:10. The Father's arms encircle His Son, and the word is given, "Let all the angels of God worship Him." Hebrews 1:6.

     With joy unutterable, rulers and principalities and powers acknowledge the supremacy of the Prince of life. The angel host prostrate themselves before Him, while the glad shout fills all the courts of heaven, "Worthy is the Lamb that was slain to receive power, and riches, and wisdom, and strength, and honor, and glory, and blessing." Revelation 5:12. 

What beautiful truths are presented to  our world!! We long for the return of our precious Savior!!! Come Lord Jesus!!

Title: Re: The Desire of Ages--Final Chapter--"To My Father, and Your Father"
Post by: Dorine on October 23, 2025, 03:04:27 AM

Christ had ascended to heaven in the form of humanity. The disciples had beheld the cloud receive Him. The same Jesus who had walked and talked and prayed with them; who had broken bread with them; who had been with them in their boats on the lake; and who had that very day toiled with them up the ascent of Olivet,--the same Jesus had now gone to share His Father's throne. And the angels had assured them that the very One whom they had seen go up into heaven, would come again even as He had ascended. He will come "with clouds; and every eye shall see Him." "The Lord Himself shall descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the Archangel, and with the trump of God: and the dead in Christ shall rise." "The Son of man shall come in His glory, and all the holy angels with Him, then shall He sit upon the throne of His glory." Revelation 1:7; 1 Thessalonians 4:16; Matthew 25:31. Thus will be fulfilled the Lord's own promise to His disciples: "If I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto Myself; that where I am, there ye may be also." John 14:3. Well might the disciples rejoice in the hope of their Lord's return.

It won't be long now and we will see our Saviour coming in the clouds to receive His children home. Yes we have been saying this for many years now but that shows us just how much closer His coming is.  This promise of His return becomes more precious and meaningful to me each day. I love to talk and share this truth but there are so many that are uncomfortable with the subject. What a blessing it is when you can fellowship with those who share the same promises. Not just from the lips but from experience. Many are called but few are chosen because like the 5 foolish virgins they know the truth and feel secure but they are empty of the Holy Spirit and when trials and calamity come they are in turmoil. May we be watching and praying for the return of our Lord and sharing with those who are searching for a heart experience with Christ.