When God Says …
“Then said some of his disciples among themselves, What is this that he saith unto us, A little while, and ye shall not see me: and again, a little while, and ye shall see me: and, Because I go to the Father? They said therefore, What is this that he saith, A little while? we cannot tell what he saith.” (John 16:17-18 KJV).
It is understandable for these remaining Eleven apostles to be confused experiencing this kind of parting huddle with their Master. This setting is unprecedented. They don’t have the help of hindsight like we do, having all that transpired already written for us to reflect on. They don’t have as yet the Holy Spirit to give them wisdom as we do now the moment we believe and receive the Lordship of Christ Jesus and are born again. What they are experiencing, in this night of their last supper together, are momentous consequential time marker that will be remembered and celebrated by believers that follow. Hence, it is unfair for us to say ‘how could they not get it having been with the Lord Jesus physically for three years?’ No, we have no license to question them. But, we have the benefit of learning lessons of faith, out of the footsteps they left for us to trace on.
Only after the resurrection of the Lord Jesus Christ that these young apostles appreciate the value of ‘a little while’ that the Lord was talking to them. When the Holy Spirit whom the Lord promised to send them came, they too came to fully fathom the depth of the words they heard. The Holy Spirit guides them [and us] into all the truth (John 16:13) and teaches them [and us] all things (John 14:26). These are affirmed on the Day of Pentecost when the Holy Spirit came to rest on each of the Twelve apostles and a group of disciples, a total of One Hundred Twenty people, in the upper room (Acts 2:1-4).
Apostle Peter stood filled with the Holy Spirit, sent by the Father and the risen Lord Jesus Christ who is now seated on the Father's right hand. He declared a quote from the writings of the prophet Joel describing the Holy Spirit’s role in our lives as believers: “And in the last days it shall be, God declares, that I will pour out my Spirit on all flesh, and your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, and your young men shall see visions, and your old men shall dream dreams; even on my male servants and female servants in those days I will pour out my Spirit, and they shall prophesy.” (Acts 2:17-18 ESV).
And I say, AMEN!
Daily reflections by:
F. A. Frias
PFC Ministries
When God says... I say, AMEN! is a provocative reflection of the Lord's holy Word. It intends to challenge every seeker of truth to dig deep into the core of the Word of Life to point every being to Christ Jesus - the author and finisher of our faith, and to draw revelations for change, for nourishment and for strength of every soul.
Partners For Christ Ministries, INC
P. O. Box 773716
Ocala, FL 34477
Touching lives in Cambodia, The Philippines, The Middle East, The USA, and... other countries.
Monday, December 23, 2024
Sunday, December 22, 2024
The Gospel of John 16:16 When God Says...I Say, AMEN!
When God Says …
“A little while, and ye shall not see me: and again, a little while, and ye shall see me, because I go to the Father.” (John 16:16 KJV).
Without the benefit of hindsight, that we now have, these Words of the Lord Jesus were confusing for the apostles to grasp on. For us who are able to see the whole picture as revealed in Scriptures, we can understand that the Lord is referring to His imminent sacrifice, death and burial. ‘A little while’ the forces of darkness are closing in. The prince of the world is about to arrest and subject Him on a mock trial of accusations with no merit. He will be taken away from the sight of His beloved disciples. Pushed around baseless hearings and trials conducted by religious Jews. Ultimately, He is condemned to be crucified by the people who He came for to save - if only they listen to the truth and believed.
Yes, for three days, the Lord’s followers won’t see Him. He shall be delivered to the sealed and guarded tomb. They, along with all those who believed on the Son of God, will be scattered and afraid. Their hopes seem fading away. Their Master is gone. Yet, again, they did not get it fully. The Lord Jesus also assured them, and us as well who rest in His grace by faith, ‘a little while ye shall see me’.
At the right time, as promised, they saw Him! He rose from the grave! Forty Days He appeared to Five Hundred of them who witnessed His resurrection (1 Corinthians 15:6). Then He returns to the Father who sent Him. Our Redeemer lives, giving us the assurance that we too shall live, being born again by faith in Him. “We know that Christ, being raised from the dead, will never die again; death no longer has dominion over him. For the death he died he died to sin, once for all, but the life he lives he lives to God. So you also must consider yourselves dead to sin and alive to God in Christ Jesus.” (Romans 6:9-11 ESV).
And I say, AMEN!
Daily reflections by:
“A little while, and ye shall not see me: and again, a little while, and ye shall see me, because I go to the Father.” (John 16:16 KJV).
Without the benefit of hindsight, that we now have, these Words of the Lord Jesus were confusing for the apostles to grasp on. For us who are able to see the whole picture as revealed in Scriptures, we can understand that the Lord is referring to His imminent sacrifice, death and burial. ‘A little while’ the forces of darkness are closing in. The prince of the world is about to arrest and subject Him on a mock trial of accusations with no merit. He will be taken away from the sight of His beloved disciples. Pushed around baseless hearings and trials conducted by religious Jews. Ultimately, He is condemned to be crucified by the people who He came for to save - if only they listen to the truth and believed.
Yes, for three days, the Lord’s followers won’t see Him. He shall be delivered to the sealed and guarded tomb. They, along with all those who believed on the Son of God, will be scattered and afraid. Their hopes seem fading away. Their Master is gone. Yet, again, they did not get it fully. The Lord Jesus also assured them, and us as well who rest in His grace by faith, ‘a little while ye shall see me’.
At the right time, as promised, they saw Him! He rose from the grave! Forty Days He appeared to Five Hundred of them who witnessed His resurrection (1 Corinthians 15:6). Then He returns to the Father who sent Him. Our Redeemer lives, giving us the assurance that we too shall live, being born again by faith in Him. “We know that Christ, being raised from the dead, will never die again; death no longer has dominion over him. For the death he died he died to sin, once for all, but the life he lives he lives to God. So you also must consider yourselves dead to sin and alive to God in Christ Jesus.” (Romans 6:9-11 ESV).
And I say, AMEN!
Daily reflections by:
F. A. Frias
PFC Ministries
When God says... I say, AMEN! is a provocative reflection of the Lord's holy Word. It intends to challenge every seeker of truth to dig deep into the core of the Word of Life to point every being to Christ Jesus - the author and finisher of our faith, and to draw revelations for change, for nourishment and for strength of every soul.
Partners For Christ Ministries, INC
P. O. Box 773716
Ocala, FL 34477
Touching lives in Cambodia, The Philippines, The Middle East, The USA, and... other countries.
PFC Ministries
When God says... I say, AMEN! is a provocative reflection of the Lord's holy Word. It intends to challenge every seeker of truth to dig deep into the core of the Word of Life to point every being to Christ Jesus - the author and finisher of our faith, and to draw revelations for change, for nourishment and for strength of every soul.
Partners For Christ Ministries, INC
P. O. Box 773716
Ocala, FL 34477
Touching lives in Cambodia, The Philippines, The Middle East, The USA, and... other countries.
Saturday, December 21, 2024
The Gospel of John 16:14-15 When God Says...I Say, AMEN!
When God Says …
“He shall glorify me: for he shall receive of mine, and shall shew it unto you. All things that the Father hath are mine: therefore said I, that he shall take of mine, and shall shew it unto you.”(John 16:14-15 KJV).
Continuing His parting Words to His young apostles, the Lord Jesus reassures them that the presence of the Holy Spirit is Him in place of His physical absence. The Holy Spirit works to glorify the Son and the Father. He teaches us truth, speaking of Christ Jesus and the Father.
The fullness of God’s triune deity dwells in Christ Jesus in bodily form (Colossians 2:9). Those who saw Him, saw the Father. The Holy Spirit ushers in to reveal to us - who receive His Lordship through grace by faith, completely, that: “He is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn of all creation. For by him all things were created, in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or dominions or rulers or authorities—all things were created through him and for him. And he is before all things, and in him all things hold together. And he is the head of the body, the church. He is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead, that in everything he might be preeminent. For in him all the fullness of God was pleased to dwell, and through him to reconcile to himself all things, whether on earth or in heaven, making peace by the blood of his cross.” (Colossians 1:15-20 ESV).
And I say, AMEN!
Daily reflections by:
F. A. Frias
PFC Ministries
When God says... I say, AMEN! is a provocative reflection of the Lord's holy Word. It intends to challenge every seeker of truth to dig deep into the core of the Word of Life to point every being to Christ Jesus - the author and finisher of our faith, and to draw revelations for change, for nourishment and for strength of every soul.
Partners For Christ Ministries, INC
P. O. Box 773716
Ocala, FL 34477
Touching lives in Cambodia, The Philippines, The Middle East, The USA, and... other countries.
“He shall glorify me: for he shall receive of mine, and shall shew it unto you. All things that the Father hath are mine: therefore said I, that he shall take of mine, and shall shew it unto you.”(John 16:14-15 KJV).
Continuing His parting Words to His young apostles, the Lord Jesus reassures them that the presence of the Holy Spirit is Him in place of His physical absence. The Holy Spirit works to glorify the Son and the Father. He teaches us truth, speaking of Christ Jesus and the Father.
The fullness of God’s triune deity dwells in Christ Jesus in bodily form (Colossians 2:9). Those who saw Him, saw the Father. The Holy Spirit ushers in to reveal to us - who receive His Lordship through grace by faith, completely, that: “He is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn of all creation. For by him all things were created, in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or dominions or rulers or authorities—all things were created through him and for him. And he is before all things, and in him all things hold together. And he is the head of the body, the church. He is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead, that in everything he might be preeminent. For in him all the fullness of God was pleased to dwell, and through him to reconcile to himself all things, whether on earth or in heaven, making peace by the blood of his cross.” (Colossians 1:15-20 ESV).
And I say, AMEN!
Daily reflections by:
F. A. Frias
PFC Ministries
When God says... I say, AMEN! is a provocative reflection of the Lord's holy Word. It intends to challenge every seeker of truth to dig deep into the core of the Word of Life to point every being to Christ Jesus - the author and finisher of our faith, and to draw revelations for change, for nourishment and for strength of every soul.
Partners For Christ Ministries, INC
P. O. Box 773716
Ocala, FL 34477
Touching lives in Cambodia, The Philippines, The Middle East, The USA, and... other countries.
Friday, December 20, 2024
The Gospel of John 16:12-13 When God Says...I Say, AMEN!
When God Says …
“I have yet many things to say unto you, but ye cannot bear them now. Howbeit when he, the Spirit of truth, is come, he will guide you into all truth: for he shall not speak of himself; but whatsoever he shall hear, that shall he speak: and he will shew you things to come.” (John 16:12-13 KJV).
These passages continue to give the disciples the assurance that they will not be left abandoned and helpless. They’re obviously anxious, as any person would, in their state of being told that in 'a little while' their Master would be leaving and they couldn't come with Him. Hence, the Lord promised them of someone to help them exactly like Him - the Holy Spirit (John 14:16-17). In their moment of vulnerability, the Lord Jesus knew that the fullness of His mission would be overwhelming for them to grasp. He will send the Holy Spirit to reveal in full for them and us (that receive His gift of salvation by faith) to understand at the right time.
Events that transpired before the crucifixion and death of the Lord Jesus Christ were confusing for the apostles that witnessed it. Hence, the Holy Spirit is coming, sent by the risen Lord Jesus, to guide them, and us all who believe, into all truth. Truths that we, as His redeemed, must impart to them that we love that they too shall be transformed spiritually. This, Apostle Paul affirmed in the words revealed to him by the risen Lord Jesus Christ. “But, as it is written, “What no eye has seen, nor ear heard, nor the heart of man imagined, what God has prepared for those who love him”— these things God has revealed to us through the Spirit. For the Spirit searches everything, even the depths of God. For who knows a person’s thoughts except the spirit of that person, which is in him? So also no one comprehends the thoughts of God except the Spirit of God. Now we have received not the spirit of the world, but the Spirit who is from God, that we might understand the things freely given us by God. And we impart this in words not taught by human wisdom but taught by the Spirit, interpreting spiritual truths to those who are spiritual.” (1 Corinthians 2:9-13 ESV).
And I say, AMEN!
Daily reflections by:
F. A. Frias
PFC Ministries
When God says... I say, AMEN! is a provocative reflection of the Lord's holy Word. It intends to challenge every seeker of truth to dig deep into the core of the Word of Life to point every being to Christ Jesus - the author and finisher of our faith, and to draw revelations for change, for nourishment and for strength of every soul.
Partners For Christ Ministries, INC
P. O. Box 773716
Ocala, FL 34477
Touching lives in Cambodia, The Philippines, The Middle East, The USA, and... other countries.
“I have yet many things to say unto you, but ye cannot bear them now. Howbeit when he, the Spirit of truth, is come, he will guide you into all truth: for he shall not speak of himself; but whatsoever he shall hear, that shall he speak: and he will shew you things to come.” (John 16:12-13 KJV).
These passages continue to give the disciples the assurance that they will not be left abandoned and helpless. They’re obviously anxious, as any person would, in their state of being told that in 'a little while' their Master would be leaving and they couldn't come with Him. Hence, the Lord promised them of someone to help them exactly like Him - the Holy Spirit (John 14:16-17). In their moment of vulnerability, the Lord Jesus knew that the fullness of His mission would be overwhelming for them to grasp. He will send the Holy Spirit to reveal in full for them and us (that receive His gift of salvation by faith) to understand at the right time.
Events that transpired before the crucifixion and death of the Lord Jesus Christ were confusing for the apostles that witnessed it. Hence, the Holy Spirit is coming, sent by the risen Lord Jesus, to guide them, and us all who believe, into all truth. Truths that we, as His redeemed, must impart to them that we love that they too shall be transformed spiritually. This, Apostle Paul affirmed in the words revealed to him by the risen Lord Jesus Christ. “But, as it is written, “What no eye has seen, nor ear heard, nor the heart of man imagined, what God has prepared for those who love him”— these things God has revealed to us through the Spirit. For the Spirit searches everything, even the depths of God. For who knows a person’s thoughts except the spirit of that person, which is in him? So also no one comprehends the thoughts of God except the Spirit of God. Now we have received not the spirit of the world, but the Spirit who is from God, that we might understand the things freely given us by God. And we impart this in words not taught by human wisdom but taught by the Spirit, interpreting spiritual truths to those who are spiritual.” (1 Corinthians 2:9-13 ESV).
And I say, AMEN!
Daily reflections by:
F. A. Frias
PFC Ministries
When God says... I say, AMEN! is a provocative reflection of the Lord's holy Word. It intends to challenge every seeker of truth to dig deep into the core of the Word of Life to point every being to Christ Jesus - the author and finisher of our faith, and to draw revelations for change, for nourishment and for strength of every soul.
Partners For Christ Ministries, INC
P. O. Box 773716
Ocala, FL 34477
Touching lives in Cambodia, The Philippines, The Middle East, The USA, and... other countries.
Thursday, December 19, 2024
The Gospel of John 16:8-11 Convict the World of Judgement ... When God Says...I Say, AMEN!
When God Says …
“And when he is come, he will reprove the world of sin, and of righteousness, and of judgment: of sin, because they believe not on me; of righteousness, because I go to my Father, and ye see me no more; of judgment, because the prince of this world is judged.” (John 16:8-11 KJV).
These passages reveal that the Holy Spirit - the Comforter and Helper, convicts the world "of judgment, because the prince of this world is judged.” Referring to the prince of darkness who took dominion of the world when Adam ceded it with a bite of the forbidden fruit, he was condemned at the cross. Because the prince of the world, who is the devil, has been judged, the Holy Spirit will speak strongly about judgment to the unbelieving world.
Satan's judgment through the finished work of the Lord on the cross is the harbinger of the judgment that will be meted on his operatives in the world. As Satan has been judged, his cohorts and those who choose his worldly kingdom over the kingdom of God, will be too. Unless we do our part, to reach out to the world one soul at a time.
We, the children of God by grace through faith in Christ, must therefore testify and unveil before the world the gospel of the grace of God (Acts 20:24) by the Word of truth (John 17:17). The Holy Spirit works through the Word and through us. We let His light shine through us resting in the Lord's grace by faith that they who are blinded might see (Matthew 4:16). Apostle Paul reminds: “And even if our gospel is veiled, it is veiled to those who are perishing. In their case the god of this world has blinded the minds of the unbelievers, to keep them from seeing the light of the gospel of the glory of Christ, who is the image of God. For what we proclaim is not ourselves, but Jesus Christ as Lord, with ourselves as your servants for Jesus’ sake. For God, who said, “Let light shine out of darkness,” has shone in our hearts to give the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ.” (2 Corinthians 4:3-6 ESV).
And I say, AMEN!
Daily reflections by:
F. A. Frias
PFC Ministries
When God says... I say, AMEN! is a provocative reflection of the Lord's holy Word. It intends to challenge every seeker of truth to dig deep into the core of the Word of Life to point every being to Christ Jesus - the author and finisher of our faith, and to draw revelations for change, for nourishment and for strength of every soul.
Partners For Christ Ministries, INC
P. O. Box 773716
Ocala, FL 34477
Touching lives in Cambodia, The Philippines, The Middle East, The USA, and... other countries.
“And when he is come, he will reprove the world of sin, and of righteousness, and of judgment: of sin, because they believe not on me; of righteousness, because I go to my Father, and ye see me no more; of judgment, because the prince of this world is judged.” (John 16:8-11 KJV).
These passages reveal that the Holy Spirit - the Comforter and Helper, convicts the world "of judgment, because the prince of this world is judged.” Referring to the prince of darkness who took dominion of the world when Adam ceded it with a bite of the forbidden fruit, he was condemned at the cross. Because the prince of the world, who is the devil, has been judged, the Holy Spirit will speak strongly about judgment to the unbelieving world.
Satan's judgment through the finished work of the Lord on the cross is the harbinger of the judgment that will be meted on his operatives in the world. As Satan has been judged, his cohorts and those who choose his worldly kingdom over the kingdom of God, will be too. Unless we do our part, to reach out to the world one soul at a time.
We, the children of God by grace through faith in Christ, must therefore testify and unveil before the world the gospel of the grace of God (Acts 20:24) by the Word of truth (John 17:17). The Holy Spirit works through the Word and through us. We let His light shine through us resting in the Lord's grace by faith that they who are blinded might see (Matthew 4:16). Apostle Paul reminds: “And even if our gospel is veiled, it is veiled to those who are perishing. In their case the god of this world has blinded the minds of the unbelievers, to keep them from seeing the light of the gospel of the glory of Christ, who is the image of God. For what we proclaim is not ourselves, but Jesus Christ as Lord, with ourselves as your servants for Jesus’ sake. For God, who said, “Let light shine out of darkness,” has shone in our hearts to give the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ.” (2 Corinthians 4:3-6 ESV).
And I say, AMEN!
Daily reflections by:
F. A. Frias
PFC Ministries
When God says... I say, AMEN! is a provocative reflection of the Lord's holy Word. It intends to challenge every seeker of truth to dig deep into the core of the Word of Life to point every being to Christ Jesus - the author and finisher of our faith, and to draw revelations for change, for nourishment and for strength of every soul.
Partners For Christ Ministries, INC
P. O. Box 773716
Ocala, FL 34477
Touching lives in Cambodia, The Philippines, The Middle East, The USA, and... other countries.
Wednesday, December 18, 2024
The Gospel of John 16:8-11 Convict The World of Righteousnes .... When God Says...I Say, AMEN!
When God Says …
“And when he is come, he will reprove the world of sin, and of righteousness, and of judgment: of sin, because they believe not on me; of righteousness, because I go to my Father, and ye see me no more; of judgment, because the prince of this world is judged.” (John 16:8-11 KJV).
Continuing our reflections from these passages reveal another conviction engagement for the Holy Spirit, the Paraclete. He confronts the world as prosecutor, judge, and persuader. For us who believe in Christ Jesus, He is our advocate and defender. But to the world, He seeks not just to make them guilty, but to turn them to Christ Jesus. Yes, the Holy Spirit reproves the world of sin, of which we were once.
And, ... as the Lord Jesus is going away and leaves the earth to go back to where He came from, the Holy Spirit now comes and persuades the unbelieving world of the righteousness of Christ Jesus. Because the Righteous One leaves the earth and returns to the Father, the world is laid bare in its unrighteous state.
The Holy Spirit comes and confronts the world and its religious cohorts of their rejection of Him, whom they hang on the cross. They crucified Him who can give the gift of righteousness. He who is now seated at the Father's right hand in heaven manifested in the world. He is our righteousness by faith, for us who believe. The Holy Bible says: “But now the righteousness of God has been manifested apart from the law, although the Law and the Prophets bear witness to it— the righteousness of God through faith in Jesus Christ for all who believe.” (Romans 3:21-22a ESV).
And I say, AMEN!
Daily reflections by:
F. A. Frias
PFC Ministries
When God says... I say, AMEN! is a provocative reflection of the Lord's holy Word. It intends to challenge every seeker of truth to dig deep into the core of the Word of Life to point every being to Christ Jesus - the author and finisher of our faith, and to draw revelations for change, for nourishment and for strength of every soul.
Partners For Christ Ministries, INC
P. O. Box 773716
Ocala, FL 34477
Touching lives in Cambodia, The Philippines, The Middle East, The USA, and... other countries.
“And when he is come, he will reprove the world of sin, and of righteousness, and of judgment: of sin, because they believe not on me; of righteousness, because I go to my Father, and ye see me no more; of judgment, because the prince of this world is judged.” (John 16:8-11 KJV).
Continuing our reflections from these passages reveal another conviction engagement for the Holy Spirit, the Paraclete. He confronts the world as prosecutor, judge, and persuader. For us who believe in Christ Jesus, He is our advocate and defender. But to the world, He seeks not just to make them guilty, but to turn them to Christ Jesus. Yes, the Holy Spirit reproves the world of sin, of which we were once.
And, ... as the Lord Jesus is going away and leaves the earth to go back to where He came from, the Holy Spirit now comes and persuades the unbelieving world of the righteousness of Christ Jesus. Because the Righteous One leaves the earth and returns to the Father, the world is laid bare in its unrighteous state.
The Holy Spirit comes and confronts the world and its religious cohorts of their rejection of Him, whom they hang on the cross. They crucified Him who can give the gift of righteousness. He who is now seated at the Father's right hand in heaven manifested in the world. He is our righteousness by faith, for us who believe. The Holy Bible says: “But now the righteousness of God has been manifested apart from the law, although the Law and the Prophets bear witness to it— the righteousness of God through faith in Jesus Christ for all who believe.” (Romans 3:21-22a ESV).
And I say, AMEN!
Daily reflections by:
F. A. Frias
PFC Ministries
When God says... I say, AMEN! is a provocative reflection of the Lord's holy Word. It intends to challenge every seeker of truth to dig deep into the core of the Word of Life to point every being to Christ Jesus - the author and finisher of our faith, and to draw revelations for change, for nourishment and for strength of every soul.
Partners For Christ Ministries, INC
P. O. Box 773716
Ocala, FL 34477
Touching lives in Cambodia, The Philippines, The Middle East, The USA, and... other countries.
Tuesday, December 17, 2024
The Gospel of John 16:8-11 Convict The World of Sin ... When God Says...I Say, AMEN!
When God Says …
“And when he is come, he will reprove the world of sin, and of righteousness, and of judgment: of sin, because they believe not on me; of righteousness, because I go to my Father, and ye see me no more; of judgment, because the prince of this world is judged.” (John 16:8-11 KJV).
As ambassadors of Christ Jesus in this world, being His redeemed by faith, we are sent to spread the good news of salvation to all the world. That's what Lord Jesus mandated us to do as He gave His parting Words to the eleven apostles. They are the new covenant pillars of faith, yet they are stymied by their human frailty. Like them, we are too. We are susceptible to the pull of the world. The world seemed more persuasive than us. Their trappings are enticing and their darkened eloquence sounds more compelling for human weakness, than those that brings light.
The Lord Jesus Christ recognize our feeling of vulnerability having experienced the way He was treated by the world and the religious people. He promised the disciples, and by extension us who believe and are born again by faith in Him, to send the Holy Spirit to comfort and help us. The Holy Spirit is the One who convicts the world.
He convicts the world of sin, as we prophesy and proclaim the Words of truth. He is the One who turns the unbelieving world from their guilt of sin to Christ Jesus. The Holy Spirit lays bare the secrets of the world's heart with God's Words of truth that we speak. The Holy Bible says, as it is written: “But if all prophesy, and an unbeliever or outsider enters, he is convicted by all, he is called to account by all, the secrets of his heart are disclosed, and so, falling on his face, he will worship God and declare that God is really among you.” (1 Corinthians 14:24-25 ESV).
And I say, AMEN!
Daily reflections by:
F. A. Frias
PFC Ministries
When God says... I say, AMEN! is a provocative reflection of the Lord's holy Word. It intends to challenge every seeker of truth to dig deep into the core of the Word of Life to point every being to Christ Jesus - the author and finisher of our faith, and to draw revelations for change, for nourishment and for strength of every soul.
Partners For Christ Ministries, INC
P. O. Box 773716
Ocala, FL 34477
Touching lives in Cambodia, The Philippines, The Middle East, The USA, and... other countries.
“And when he is come, he will reprove the world of sin, and of righteousness, and of judgment: of sin, because they believe not on me; of righteousness, because I go to my Father, and ye see me no more; of judgment, because the prince of this world is judged.” (John 16:8-11 KJV).
As ambassadors of Christ Jesus in this world, being His redeemed by faith, we are sent to spread the good news of salvation to all the world. That's what Lord Jesus mandated us to do as He gave His parting Words to the eleven apostles. They are the new covenant pillars of faith, yet they are stymied by their human frailty. Like them, we are too. We are susceptible to the pull of the world. The world seemed more persuasive than us. Their trappings are enticing and their darkened eloquence sounds more compelling for human weakness, than those that brings light.
The Lord Jesus Christ recognize our feeling of vulnerability having experienced the way He was treated by the world and the religious people. He promised the disciples, and by extension us who believe and are born again by faith in Him, to send the Holy Spirit to comfort and help us. The Holy Spirit is the One who convicts the world.
He convicts the world of sin, as we prophesy and proclaim the Words of truth. He is the One who turns the unbelieving world from their guilt of sin to Christ Jesus. The Holy Spirit lays bare the secrets of the world's heart with God's Words of truth that we speak. The Holy Bible says, as it is written: “But if all prophesy, and an unbeliever or outsider enters, he is convicted by all, he is called to account by all, the secrets of his heart are disclosed, and so, falling on his face, he will worship God and declare that God is really among you.” (1 Corinthians 14:24-25 ESV).
And I say, AMEN!
Daily reflections by:
F. A. Frias
PFC Ministries
When God says... I say, AMEN! is a provocative reflection of the Lord's holy Word. It intends to challenge every seeker of truth to dig deep into the core of the Word of Life to point every being to Christ Jesus - the author and finisher of our faith, and to draw revelations for change, for nourishment and for strength of every soul.
Partners For Christ Ministries, INC
P. O. Box 773716
Ocala, FL 34477
Touching lives in Cambodia, The Philippines, The Middle East, The USA, and... other countries.
Monday, December 16, 2024
The Gospel of John 16:7 When God Says...I Say, AMEN!
When God Says …
“Nevertheless I tell you the truth; It is expedient for you that I go away: for if I go not away, the Comforter will not come unto you; but if I depart, I will send him unto you.” (John 16:7 KJV).
The Lord Jesus in human form was limited to space and time. He couldn't be present with each and every one of us at the same place and instance. His presence was limited to one person at a time. So, to be available to you, I and all, He has to exit the physical realm, so He can come in the person of the Holy Spirit, who is our Comforter, to be with us all at the same time who believes, always. He is never closer to one than to another. He is not a respecter of person. He is a respecter to faith!
The coming of the Holy Spirit that the Lord will send is the fulfillment of prophet Jeremiah's prophecy: ““The days are coming,” declares the Lord, “when I will make a new covenant with the people of Israel and with the people of Judah. It will not be like the covenant I made with their ancestors when I took them by the hand to lead them out of Egypt, because they broke my covenant, though I was a husband to them,” declares the Lord. “This is the covenant I will make with the people of Israel after that time,” declares the Lord. “I will put my law in their minds and write it on their hearts. I will be their God, and they will be my people. No longer will they teach their neighbor, or say to one another, ‘Know the Lord,’ because they will all know me, from the least of them to the greatest,” declares the Lord. “For I will forgive their wickedness and will remember their sins no more.”” (Jeremiah 31:31-34 NIV).
This is affirmed in the risen Lord's revelation through the Pauline epistle to the Hebrews. This is addressed to us all who believe, have been born again and declared children of God by grace through faith in Christ Jesus. We are assured being under the New Covenant of grace, as it is written: “And the Holy Spirit also bears witness to us; for after saying, “This is the covenant that I will make with them after those days, declares the Lord: I will put my laws on their hearts, and write them on their minds,” then he adds, “I will remember their sins and their lawless deeds no more.””(Hebrews 10:15-17 ESV).
And I say, AMEN!
Daily reflections by:
“Nevertheless I tell you the truth; It is expedient for you that I go away: for if I go not away, the Comforter will not come unto you; but if I depart, I will send him unto you.” (John 16:7 KJV).
The Lord Jesus in human form was limited to space and time. He couldn't be present with each and every one of us at the same place and instance. His presence was limited to one person at a time. So, to be available to you, I and all, He has to exit the physical realm, so He can come in the person of the Holy Spirit, who is our Comforter, to be with us all at the same time who believes, always. He is never closer to one than to another. He is not a respecter of person. He is a respecter to faith!
The coming of the Holy Spirit that the Lord will send is the fulfillment of prophet Jeremiah's prophecy: ““The days are coming,” declares the Lord, “when I will make a new covenant with the people of Israel and with the people of Judah. It will not be like the covenant I made with their ancestors when I took them by the hand to lead them out of Egypt, because they broke my covenant, though I was a husband to them,” declares the Lord. “This is the covenant I will make with the people of Israel after that time,” declares the Lord. “I will put my law in their minds and write it on their hearts. I will be their God, and they will be my people. No longer will they teach their neighbor, or say to one another, ‘Know the Lord,’ because they will all know me, from the least of them to the greatest,” declares the Lord. “For I will forgive their wickedness and will remember their sins no more.”” (Jeremiah 31:31-34 NIV).
This is affirmed in the risen Lord's revelation through the Pauline epistle to the Hebrews. This is addressed to us all who believe, have been born again and declared children of God by grace through faith in Christ Jesus. We are assured being under the New Covenant of grace, as it is written: “And the Holy Spirit also bears witness to us; for after saying, “This is the covenant that I will make with them after those days, declares the Lord: I will put my laws on their hearts, and write them on their minds,” then he adds, “I will remember their sins and their lawless deeds no more.””(Hebrews 10:15-17 ESV).
And I say, AMEN!
Daily reflections by:
F. A. Frias
PFC Ministries
When God says... I say, AMEN! is a provocative reflection of the Lord's holy Word. It intends to challenge every seeker of truth to dig deep into the core of the Word of Life to point every being to Christ Jesus - the author and finisher of our faith, and to draw revelations for change, for nourishment and for strength of every soul.
Partners For Christ Ministries, INC
P. O. Box 773716
Ocala, FL 34477
Touching lives in Cambodia, The Philippines, The Middle East, The USA, and... other countries.
PFC Ministries
When God says... I say, AMEN! is a provocative reflection of the Lord's holy Word. It intends to challenge every seeker of truth to dig deep into the core of the Word of Life to point every being to Christ Jesus - the author and finisher of our faith, and to draw revelations for change, for nourishment and for strength of every soul.
Partners For Christ Ministries, INC
P. O. Box 773716
Ocala, FL 34477
Touching lives in Cambodia, The Philippines, The Middle East, The USA, and... other countries.
Sunday, December 15, 2024
The Gospel of John 16:5-6 When God Says...I Say, AMEN!
When God Says …
“But now I go my way to him that sent me; and none of you asketh me, Whither goest thou? But because I have said these things unto you, sorrow hath filled your heart.” (John 16:5-6 KJV).
These expository statements of the Lord Jesus reveal the disciples' confused state of mind. Centered on their own well-being, Apostles Peter and Thomas asked the Lord the question earlier: "Lord, where are you going?" (John 13:36; 14:5). Those were actually meant to ask, Lord why are you going? as these verses now revealed. In their minds the turmoil revolves around the lines: why are you leaving? What will happen to us? Not what will happen to their Master. They were concerned about the Lord's leaving, not where He's going.
Yes, literally the disciples have asked the question "Lord, where are you going? But, it was a question focused on their fears and not concern for their Master. They have reason to be anxious, as we should too. They, you and I are warned by Lord Jesus of persecution for being His followers. We'll be hated by the world because of Him. (John 15:18-27). On the other hand, we must rejoice. We have a solid ground to stand on, having been born again as we put our faith in Him. We have the comforting words of Apostle Paul's exhortation: “But thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.” (1 Corinthians 15:57 ESV).
And I say, AMEN!
Daily reflections by:
F. A. Frias
PFC Ministries
When God says... I say, AMEN! is a provocative reflection of the Lord's holy Word. It intends to challenge every seeker of truth to dig deep into the core of the Word of Life to point every being to Christ Jesus - the author and finisher of our faith, and to draw revelations for change, for nourishment and for strength of every soul.
Partners For Christ Ministries, INC
P. O. Box 773716
Ocala, FL 34477
Touching lives in Cambodia, The Philippines, The Middle East, The USA, and... other countries.
“But now I go my way to him that sent me; and none of you asketh me, Whither goest thou? But because I have said these things unto you, sorrow hath filled your heart.” (John 16:5-6 KJV).
These expository statements of the Lord Jesus reveal the disciples' confused state of mind. Centered on their own well-being, Apostles Peter and Thomas asked the Lord the question earlier: "Lord, where are you going?" (John 13:36; 14:5). Those were actually meant to ask, Lord why are you going? as these verses now revealed. In their minds the turmoil revolves around the lines: why are you leaving? What will happen to us? Not what will happen to their Master. They were concerned about the Lord's leaving, not where He's going.
Yes, literally the disciples have asked the question "Lord, where are you going? But, it was a question focused on their fears and not concern for their Master. They have reason to be anxious, as we should too. They, you and I are warned by Lord Jesus of persecution for being His followers. We'll be hated by the world because of Him. (John 15:18-27). On the other hand, we must rejoice. We have a solid ground to stand on, having been born again as we put our faith in Him. We have the comforting words of Apostle Paul's exhortation: “But thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.” (1 Corinthians 15:57 ESV).
And I say, AMEN!
Daily reflections by:
F. A. Frias
PFC Ministries
When God says... I say, AMEN! is a provocative reflection of the Lord's holy Word. It intends to challenge every seeker of truth to dig deep into the core of the Word of Life to point every being to Christ Jesus - the author and finisher of our faith, and to draw revelations for change, for nourishment and for strength of every soul.
Partners For Christ Ministries, INC
P. O. Box 773716
Ocala, FL 34477
Touching lives in Cambodia, The Philippines, The Middle East, The USA, and... other countries.
Saturday, December 14, 2024
The Gospel of John 16:3-4 When God Says...I Say, AMEN!
When God Says …
“And these things will they do unto you, because they have not known the Father, nor me. But these things have I told you, that when the time shall come, ye may remember that I told you of them. And these things I said not unto you at the beginning, because I was with you.” (John 16:3-4 KJV)
As believers in the true gospel of grace of Christ Jesus, the reality of an uphill struggle for living in this world is a thing that must not catch us by surprise. It is inherent in a world ruled by spiritual darkness. This is a fallen world - a legacy of Adam's disobedience of eating the fruit of the forbidden tree of the knowledge of good and evil. This world is hostile to anyone whose faith is in Christ Jesus. Yet, this world is loved by the Father and Lord Jesus Christ, but it defies and rejects the love of the Father and His only Son who came to bring all to His love. The disciples and us who believed are warned by the Lord, this world hates us!
We are forewarned, if the world and religious people crucified the Lord Jesus Christ, we, who by faith are the Lord's brethren (Matthew 20:10) and co-heirs (Romans 8:17) are targets too. They deeply loathe anything that ascribed to the true God of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob who sent His only Son to save us, because of His deep love for us. The Lord Jesus is revealing this reality to the disciples in this crucial moment that the time is eminently coming for Him to be absent from them physically. As children of God in Christ, we too are hated by the world. We must remember these Words of the Lord, always: ““If the world hates you, know that it has hated me before it hated you. If you were of the world, the world would love you as its own; but because you are not of the world, but I chose you out of the world, therefore the world hates you.” (John 15:18-19 ESV).
Hence, as the redeemed of the Lord, born again by grace through faith in Him, let us therefore hold on to this exhortation of Apostle Paul, as he testifies: "Therefore I endure everything for the sake of the elect, that they also may obtain the salvation that is in Christ Jesus with eternal glory. The saying is trustworthy, for: If we have died with him, we will also live with him; if we endure, we will also reign with him;" (2 Timothy 2:10-12 ESV).
“And these things will they do unto you, because they have not known the Father, nor me. But these things have I told you, that when the time shall come, ye may remember that I told you of them. And these things I said not unto you at the beginning, because I was with you.” (John 16:3-4 KJV)
As believers in the true gospel of grace of Christ Jesus, the reality of an uphill struggle for living in this world is a thing that must not catch us by surprise. It is inherent in a world ruled by spiritual darkness. This is a fallen world - a legacy of Adam's disobedience of eating the fruit of the forbidden tree of the knowledge of good and evil. This world is hostile to anyone whose faith is in Christ Jesus. Yet, this world is loved by the Father and Lord Jesus Christ, but it defies and rejects the love of the Father and His only Son who came to bring all to His love. The disciples and us who believed are warned by the Lord, this world hates us!
We are forewarned, if the world and religious people crucified the Lord Jesus Christ, we, who by faith are the Lord's brethren (Matthew 20:10) and co-heirs (Romans 8:17) are targets too. They deeply loathe anything that ascribed to the true God of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob who sent His only Son to save us, because of His deep love for us. The Lord Jesus is revealing this reality to the disciples in this crucial moment that the time is eminently coming for Him to be absent from them physically. As children of God in Christ, we too are hated by the world. We must remember these Words of the Lord, always: ““If the world hates you, know that it has hated me before it hated you. If you were of the world, the world would love you as its own; but because you are not of the world, but I chose you out of the world, therefore the world hates you.” (John 15:18-19 ESV).
Hence, as the redeemed of the Lord, born again by grace through faith in Him, let us therefore hold on to this exhortation of Apostle Paul, as he testifies: "Therefore I endure everything for the sake of the elect, that they also may obtain the salvation that is in Christ Jesus with eternal glory. The saying is trustworthy, for: If we have died with him, we will also live with him; if we endure, we will also reign with him;" (2 Timothy 2:10-12 ESV).
And I say, AMEN!
Daily reflections by:
F. A. Frias
PFC Ministries
When God says... I say, AMEN! is a provocative reflection of the Lord's holy Word. It intends to challenge every seeker of truth to dig deep into the core of the Word of Life to point every being to Christ Jesus - the author and finisher of our faith, and to draw revelations for change, for nourishment and for strength of every soul.
Partners For Christ Ministries, INC
P. O. Box 773716
Ocala, FL 34477
Touching lives in Cambodia, The Philippines, The Middle East, The USA, and... other countries.
PFC Ministries
When God says... I say, AMEN! is a provocative reflection of the Lord's holy Word. It intends to challenge every seeker of truth to dig deep into the core of the Word of Life to point every being to Christ Jesus - the author and finisher of our faith, and to draw revelations for change, for nourishment and for strength of every soul.
Partners For Christ Ministries, INC
P. O. Box 773716
Ocala, FL 34477
Touching lives in Cambodia, The Philippines, The Middle East, The USA, and... other countries.
Friday, December 13, 2024
The Gospel of John 16:1-2 When God Says...I Say, AMEN!
When God Says …
“These things have I spoken unto you, that ye should not be offended. They shall put you out of the synagogues: yea, the time cometh, that whosoever killeth you will think that he doeth God service.” (John 16:1-2 KJV).
"These things" are reminders that the Lord Jesus shared to the disciples after super, in this last night of them being together, before being arrested and crucified. He is now giving them and us a heavenly heads up to keep us from falling into the trap of the enemy in our sufferings as His followers. Our Lord warns us of battles, conflicts, wounds, and persecutions – perhaps even death - before it happens so that when it does happen we will be able to withstand and overcome. Being born again by faith in Christ Jesus, we will face trials in the hands of religious people who claims to be doing it for their god. Apostle Peter echoed the Lord's warning in his epistle saying: Dear friends, do not be surprised at the painful trial you are suffering, as though something strange were happening to you (1 Peter 4:12).
But, we can rest in God's peace that surpasses understanding guarding our hearts and minds (Philippians 4:7). In Apostle Matthew's account, the Lord Jesus further gave us this warning, and comforting assurance: “Beware of men, for they will deliver you over to courts and flog you in their synagogues, and you will be dragged before governors and kings for my sake, to bear witness before them and the Gentiles. When they deliver you over, do not be anxious how you are to speak or what you are to say, for what you are to say will be given to you in that hour. For it is not you who speak, but the Spirit of your Father speaking through you.” (Matthew 10:17-20 ESV).
And I say, AMEN!
Daily reflections by:
F. A. Frias
PFC Ministries
When God says... I say, AMEN! is a provocative reflection of the Lord's holy Word. It intends to challenge every seeker of truth to dig deep into the core of the Word of Life to point every being to Christ Jesus - the author and finisher of our faith, and to draw revelations for change, for nourishment and for strength of every soul.
Partners For Christ Ministries, INC
P. O. Box 773716
Ocala, FL 34477
Touching lives in Cambodia, The Philippines, The Middle East, The USA, and... other countries.
“These things have I spoken unto you, that ye should not be offended. They shall put you out of the synagogues: yea, the time cometh, that whosoever killeth you will think that he doeth God service.” (John 16:1-2 KJV).
"These things" are reminders that the Lord Jesus shared to the disciples after super, in this last night of them being together, before being arrested and crucified. He is now giving them and us a heavenly heads up to keep us from falling into the trap of the enemy in our sufferings as His followers. Our Lord warns us of battles, conflicts, wounds, and persecutions – perhaps even death - before it happens so that when it does happen we will be able to withstand and overcome. Being born again by faith in Christ Jesus, we will face trials in the hands of religious people who claims to be doing it for their god. Apostle Peter echoed the Lord's warning in his epistle saying: Dear friends, do not be surprised at the painful trial you are suffering, as though something strange were happening to you (1 Peter 4:12).
But, we can rest in God's peace that surpasses understanding guarding our hearts and minds (Philippians 4:7). In Apostle Matthew's account, the Lord Jesus further gave us this warning, and comforting assurance: “Beware of men, for they will deliver you over to courts and flog you in their synagogues, and you will be dragged before governors and kings for my sake, to bear witness before them and the Gentiles. When they deliver you over, do not be anxious how you are to speak or what you are to say, for what you are to say will be given to you in that hour. For it is not you who speak, but the Spirit of your Father speaking through you.” (Matthew 10:17-20 ESV).
And I say, AMEN!
Daily reflections by:
F. A. Frias
PFC Ministries
When God says... I say, AMEN! is a provocative reflection of the Lord's holy Word. It intends to challenge every seeker of truth to dig deep into the core of the Word of Life to point every being to Christ Jesus - the author and finisher of our faith, and to draw revelations for change, for nourishment and for strength of every soul.
Partners For Christ Ministries, INC
P. O. Box 773716
Ocala, FL 34477
Touching lives in Cambodia, The Philippines, The Middle East, The USA, and... other countries.
Thursday, December 12, 2024
The Gospel of John 15:26-27 When God Says...I Say, AMEN!
When God Says …
“But when the Comforter is come, whom I will send unto you from the Father, even the Spirit of truth, which proceedeth from the Father, he shall testify of me: and ye also shall bear witness, because ye have been with me from the beginning.” (John 15:26-27 KJV).
The testimony of the Holy Spirit gives divine confirmation of the Lord's identity, mission, and teachings. He ensures that believers and followers of the Lord Jesus Christ are empowered and guided. He is the anchor of the first-hand message of truth that the disciples received from the Lord, and for us now, for the gospel truth we receive through the Lord's holy and written Words.
As the physical partner of the Holy Spirit, the disciples and us-who are born again by faith in Christ, the Lord gave this mandate direct to the Eleven apostles: "You will also testify, because you have been with me from the beginning." He directed His disciples, emphasizing that they will bear witness of Him. They have been with Him from the inception of His ministry. They are first-hand eye witnesses to His life, teachings, death and resurrection.
This declaration lays the foundation for the disciples' future role as heralds of the Gospel of the grace of God. Their testimony, guided and empowered by the Holy Spirit, becomes the pivotal means through which the Lord's true gospel of grace and truth is proclaimed to the world. After the resurrection, before the Lord Jesus ascended to the Father, this mandate He affirmed to the disciples, and to us by extension through faith in Christ Jesus. It is written: “Then he opened their minds to understand the Scriptures, and said to them, “Thus it is written, that the Christ should suffer and on the third day rise from the dead, and that repentance for the forgiveness of sins should be proclaimed in his name to all nations, beginning from Jerusalem. You are witnesses of these things. And behold, I am sending the promise of my Father upon you. But stay in the city until you are clothed with power from on high.”(Luke 24:49 ESV).
And I say, AMEN!
Daily reflections by:
F. A. Frias
PFC Ministries
When God says... I say, AMEN! is a provocative reflection of the Lord's holy Word. It intends to challenge every seeker of truth to dig deep into the core of the Word of Life to point every being to Christ Jesus - the author and finisher of our faith, and to draw revelations for change, for nourishment and for strength of every soul.
Partners For Christ Ministries, INC
P. O. Box 773716
Ocala, FL 34477
Touching lives in Cambodia, The Philippines, The Middle East, The USA, and... other countries.
“But when the Comforter is come, whom I will send unto you from the Father, even the Spirit of truth, which proceedeth from the Father, he shall testify of me: and ye also shall bear witness, because ye have been with me from the beginning.” (John 15:26-27 KJV).
The testimony of the Holy Spirit gives divine confirmation of the Lord's identity, mission, and teachings. He ensures that believers and followers of the Lord Jesus Christ are empowered and guided. He is the anchor of the first-hand message of truth that the disciples received from the Lord, and for us now, for the gospel truth we receive through the Lord's holy and written Words.
As the physical partner of the Holy Spirit, the disciples and us-who are born again by faith in Christ, the Lord gave this mandate direct to the Eleven apostles: "You will also testify, because you have been with me from the beginning." He directed His disciples, emphasizing that they will bear witness of Him. They have been with Him from the inception of His ministry. They are first-hand eye witnesses to His life, teachings, death and resurrection.
This declaration lays the foundation for the disciples' future role as heralds of the Gospel of the grace of God. Their testimony, guided and empowered by the Holy Spirit, becomes the pivotal means through which the Lord's true gospel of grace and truth is proclaimed to the world. After the resurrection, before the Lord Jesus ascended to the Father, this mandate He affirmed to the disciples, and to us by extension through faith in Christ Jesus. It is written: “Then he opened their minds to understand the Scriptures, and said to them, “Thus it is written, that the Christ should suffer and on the third day rise from the dead, and that repentance for the forgiveness of sins should be proclaimed in his name to all nations, beginning from Jerusalem. You are witnesses of these things. And behold, I am sending the promise of my Father upon you. But stay in the city until you are clothed with power from on high.”(Luke 24:49 ESV).
And I say, AMEN!
Daily reflections by:
F. A. Frias
PFC Ministries
When God says... I say, AMEN! is a provocative reflection of the Lord's holy Word. It intends to challenge every seeker of truth to dig deep into the core of the Word of Life to point every being to Christ Jesus - the author and finisher of our faith, and to draw revelations for change, for nourishment and for strength of every soul.
Partners For Christ Ministries, INC
P. O. Box 773716
Ocala, FL 34477
Touching lives in Cambodia, The Philippines, The Middle East, The USA, and... other countries.
Wednesday, December 11, 2024
The Gospel of John 15:24-25 When God Says...I Say, AMEN!
When God Says …
“If I had not done among them the works which none other man did, they had not had sin: but now have they both seen and hated both me and my Father. But this cometh to pass, that the word might be fulfilled that is written in their law, They hated me without a cause.” (John 15:24-25 KJV).
Referring to the religious leaders and their followers, the Lord Jesus said in the Message Bible paraphrase: “If I hadn’t done what I have done among them, works no one has ever done, they wouldn’t be to blame. But they saw the God-signs and hated anyway, both me and my Father. " (John 15:24 MSG). The Lord Jesus called them out in many of His teachings where they're present. He repeatedly rebuked them. But, He never called out nor rebuked those whom these religious group considered sinners. The Lord Jesus ate with the tax collectors and sinners, with words of advisement to the self-righteous group when He heard them complained. “On hearing this, Jesus said, “It is not the healthy who need a doctor, but the sick. But go and learn what this means: ‘I desire mercy, not sacrifice.’ For I have not come to call the righteous, but sinners.”” (Matthew 9:12-13 NIV).
The light of the Lord's words and works made them aware of their sins. Now, they have no excuse. Their hypocrisy is exposed. This should alert us to be conscious of the works the Lord has done, lest we fall into the religious trap. The depth of their hatred hit the point of plotting to kill Him for simply telling the truth. The writings of their law, which the Lord quoted, was fulfilled: “Let not those rejoice over me who are wrongfully my foes, and let not those wink the eye who hate me without cause.” (Psalm 35:19 ESV).
And I say, AMEN!
Daily reflections by:
F. A. Frias
PFC Ministries
When God says... I say, AMEN! is a provocative reflection of the Lord's holy Word. It intends to challenge every seeker of truth to dig deep into the core of the Word of Life to point every being to Christ Jesus - the author and finisher of our faith, and to draw revelations for change, for nourishment and for strength of every soul.
Partners For Christ Ministries, INC
P. O. Box 773716
Ocala, FL 34477
Touching lives in Cambodia, The Philippines, The Middle East, The USA, and... other countries.
“If I had not done among them the works which none other man did, they had not had sin: but now have they both seen and hated both me and my Father. But this cometh to pass, that the word might be fulfilled that is written in their law, They hated me without a cause.” (John 15:24-25 KJV).
Referring to the religious leaders and their followers, the Lord Jesus said in the Message Bible paraphrase: “If I hadn’t done what I have done among them, works no one has ever done, they wouldn’t be to blame. But they saw the God-signs and hated anyway, both me and my Father. " (John 15:24 MSG). The Lord Jesus called them out in many of His teachings where they're present. He repeatedly rebuked them. But, He never called out nor rebuked those whom these religious group considered sinners. The Lord Jesus ate with the tax collectors and sinners, with words of advisement to the self-righteous group when He heard them complained. “On hearing this, Jesus said, “It is not the healthy who need a doctor, but the sick. But go and learn what this means: ‘I desire mercy, not sacrifice.’ For I have not come to call the righteous, but sinners.”” (Matthew 9:12-13 NIV).
The light of the Lord's words and works made them aware of their sins. Now, they have no excuse. Their hypocrisy is exposed. This should alert us to be conscious of the works the Lord has done, lest we fall into the religious trap. The depth of their hatred hit the point of plotting to kill Him for simply telling the truth. The writings of their law, which the Lord quoted, was fulfilled: “Let not those rejoice over me who are wrongfully my foes, and let not those wink the eye who hate me without cause.” (Psalm 35:19 ESV).
And I say, AMEN!
Daily reflections by:
F. A. Frias
PFC Ministries
When God says... I say, AMEN! is a provocative reflection of the Lord's holy Word. It intends to challenge every seeker of truth to dig deep into the core of the Word of Life to point every being to Christ Jesus - the author and finisher of our faith, and to draw revelations for change, for nourishment and for strength of every soul.
Partners For Christ Ministries, INC
P. O. Box 773716
Ocala, FL 34477
Touching lives in Cambodia, The Philippines, The Middle East, The USA, and... other countries.
Tuesday, December 10, 2024
The Gospel of John 15:22-23 When God Says...I Say, AMEN!
When God Says …
“If I had not come and spoken unto them, they had not had sin: but now they have no cloke for their sin. He that hateth me hateth my Father also.” (John 15:22-23 KJV).
In these passages, the Lord Jesus clearly states that those who have heard and witnessed to what God has revealed through His Words and through His miraculous signs and wonders yet willfully reject them are without excuse. Indeed, God reveals through Apostle Paul that there is enough evidence of God’s eternal powers and divine nature in the creation alone to leave man without excuse for not believing (Romans 1:18-20). Willful rejection of what God revealed in the beauty of His creation, His Words and the miracles He manifest during His walk in the flesh, is an ultimate rebellion against the eternally-loving Father. It is hatred to the One who saves and the Father who sent our Savior. They commit the one and only unforgivable sin of unbelief.
Those who hate us that follow the Lord Jesus Christ, are not only persecuting us, but the Lord Jesus and the Father, firstly and foremost. In fact we are not the object of their hatred. Rather, it is the Lord Jesus they hate. They are exposed and have no excuse in doing so. They know the Lord Jesus loves them. He came to reconcile them, along with the whole world, to Himself and the Father. They are loved, as with all of us. The Lord Jesus came to reveal it through His Words of truth and supernatural signs manifest. Now, they have no excuse. For not believing they missed it hugely. The Lord Jesus warns: “Whoever believes in him is not condemned, but whoever does not believe is condemned already, because he has not believed in the name of the only Son of God.” (John 3:18 ESV).
And I say, AMEN!
Daily reflections by:
“If I had not come and spoken unto them, they had not had sin: but now they have no cloke for their sin. He that hateth me hateth my Father also.” (John 15:22-23 KJV).
In these passages, the Lord Jesus clearly states that those who have heard and witnessed to what God has revealed through His Words and through His miraculous signs and wonders yet willfully reject them are without excuse. Indeed, God reveals through Apostle Paul that there is enough evidence of God’s eternal powers and divine nature in the creation alone to leave man without excuse for not believing (Romans 1:18-20). Willful rejection of what God revealed in the beauty of His creation, His Words and the miracles He manifest during His walk in the flesh, is an ultimate rebellion against the eternally-loving Father. It is hatred to the One who saves and the Father who sent our Savior. They commit the one and only unforgivable sin of unbelief.
Those who hate us that follow the Lord Jesus Christ, are not only persecuting us, but the Lord Jesus and the Father, firstly and foremost. In fact we are not the object of their hatred. Rather, it is the Lord Jesus they hate. They are exposed and have no excuse in doing so. They know the Lord Jesus loves them. He came to reconcile them, along with the whole world, to Himself and the Father. They are loved, as with all of us. The Lord Jesus came to reveal it through His Words of truth and supernatural signs manifest. Now, they have no excuse. For not believing they missed it hugely. The Lord Jesus warns: “Whoever believes in him is not condemned, but whoever does not believe is condemned already, because he has not believed in the name of the only Son of God.” (John 3:18 ESV).
And I say, AMEN!
Daily reflections by:
F. A. Frias
PFC Ministries
When God says... I say, AMEN! is a provocative reflection of the Lord's holy Word. It intends to challenge every seeker of truth to dig deep into the core of the Word of Life to point every being to Christ Jesus - the author and finisher of our faith, and to draw revelations for change, for nourishment and for strength of every soul.
Partners For Christ Ministries, INC
P. O. Box 773716
Ocala, FL 34477
Touching lives in Cambodia, The Philippines, The Middle East, The USA, and... other countries.
PFC Ministries
When God says... I say, AMEN! is a provocative reflection of the Lord's holy Word. It intends to challenge every seeker of truth to dig deep into the core of the Word of Life to point every being to Christ Jesus - the author and finisher of our faith, and to draw revelations for change, for nourishment and for strength of every soul.
Partners For Christ Ministries, INC
P. O. Box 773716
Ocala, FL 34477
Touching lives in Cambodia, The Philippines, The Middle East, The USA, and... other countries.
Monday, December 9, 2024
The Gospel of John 15:21 When God Says...I Say, AMEN!
When God Says …
“But all these things will they do unto you for my name's sake, because they know not him that sent me.” (John 15:21 KJV).
Don't take it personally if you're hated by the world, the Lord Jesus gives us a heads up. It's not you, nor I . It's because of Him that the world hates us. When we bear His name by resting in His grace through our faith in Him we wear the banner of blessings that the world loathes. The world even quarrels with each other with myriad of platforms they stand. They quarrel because of their religions and politics. They quarrel about the choices they make about their gender and confusion as to who they want themselves identified. They quarrel about killing each other, even killing the innocents who are in their wombs - how and when to snuff them off. The world is confused, having evicted God and take the role of leading the way they live by their own rules. That's how messy is the world at large that rejects their Creator and Savior.
So, as children of God in Christ Jesus, we ought not wonder. We will be labeled and condemned by the world as deplorables. But, let's not lost sight of what matters. Yes, we are aliens abhorred by world. Hence Apostle Paul reminds us with these words of comfort: “For this light momentary affliction is preparing for us an eternal weight of glory beyond all comparison, as we look not to the things that are seen but to the things that are unseen. For the things that are seen are transient, but the things that are unseen are eternal.” (2 Corinthians 4:17-18 ESV).
And I say, AMEN!
Daily reflections by:
F. A. Frias
PFC Ministries
When God says... I say, AMEN! is a provocative reflection of the Lord's holy Word. It intends to challenge every seeker of truth to dig deep into the core of the Word of Life to point every being to Christ Jesus - the author and finisher of our faith, and to draw revelations for change, for nourishment and for strength of every soul.
Partners For Christ Ministries, INC
P. O. Box 773716
Ocala, FL 34477
Touching lives in Cambodia, The Philippines, The Middle East, The USA, and... other countries.
“But all these things will they do unto you for my name's sake, because they know not him that sent me.” (John 15:21 KJV).
Don't take it personally if you're hated by the world, the Lord Jesus gives us a heads up. It's not you, nor I . It's because of Him that the world hates us. When we bear His name by resting in His grace through our faith in Him we wear the banner of blessings that the world loathes. The world even quarrels with each other with myriad of platforms they stand. They quarrel because of their religions and politics. They quarrel about the choices they make about their gender and confusion as to who they want themselves identified. They quarrel about killing each other, even killing the innocents who are in their wombs - how and when to snuff them off. The world is confused, having evicted God and take the role of leading the way they live by their own rules. That's how messy is the world at large that rejects their Creator and Savior.
So, as children of God in Christ Jesus, we ought not wonder. We will be labeled and condemned by the world as deplorables. But, let's not lost sight of what matters. Yes, we are aliens abhorred by world. Hence Apostle Paul reminds us with these words of comfort: “For this light momentary affliction is preparing for us an eternal weight of glory beyond all comparison, as we look not to the things that are seen but to the things that are unseen. For the things that are seen are transient, but the things that are unseen are eternal.” (2 Corinthians 4:17-18 ESV).
And I say, AMEN!
Daily reflections by:
F. A. Frias
PFC Ministries
When God says... I say, AMEN! is a provocative reflection of the Lord's holy Word. It intends to challenge every seeker of truth to dig deep into the core of the Word of Life to point every being to Christ Jesus - the author and finisher of our faith, and to draw revelations for change, for nourishment and for strength of every soul.
Partners For Christ Ministries, INC
P. O. Box 773716
Ocala, FL 34477
Touching lives in Cambodia, The Philippines, The Middle East, The USA, and... other countries.
Sunday, December 8, 2024
The Gospel of John 15:20 When God Says...I Say, AMEN!
When God Says …
“Remember the word that I said unto you, The servant is not greater than his Lord. If they have persecuted me, they will also persecute you; if they have kept my saying, they will keep your's also.” (John 15:20 KJV).
The Lord Jesus, in this passage, continues to prepare His young disciples for the expected challenges they will encounter for being associated with Him. It is both an encouragement and a warning so they won't be caught helpless and vulnerable. Using the servant and master analogy, He warned them that if their Master was hated, they will not be treated any better. This passage gives the picture of the relational dynamics between the Lord, the disciples and the world.
With grim prospects ahead, and looming storms of persecution lurking, the Lord Jesus gives the disciples and us who follow their example in faith, a perspective of encouragement. Yes, we may be persecuted by the world. But, some may listen and keep the Lord's words of truth we share, as many did to what they heard from the Master. It should be looked to as a privilege to suffer as the Lord was (Colossians 1:24).
When we share in the Lord's suffering, being children of the Most High God and born again (John 3:3) by faith in Christ Jesus, we are blessed. The Spirit of glory and of God rest upon us, as it is written: "Beloved, do not be surprised at the fiery trial when it comes upon you to test you, as though something strange were happening to you. But rejoice insofar as you share Christ’s sufferings, that you may also rejoice and be glad when his glory is revealed. If you are insulted for the name of Christ, you are blessed, because the Spirit of glory and of God rests upon you.” (1 Peter 4:12-14 ESV).
And I say, AMEN!
Daily reflections by:
F. A. Frias
PFC Ministries
When God says... I say, AMEN! is a provocative reflection of the Lord's holy Word. It intends to challenge every seeker of truth to dig deep into the core of the Word of Life to point every being to Christ Jesus - the author and finisher of our faith, and to draw revelations for change, for nourishment and for strength of every soul.
Partners For Christ Ministries, INC
P. O. Box 773716
Ocala, FL 34477
Touching lives in Cambodia, The Philippines, The Middle East, The USA, and... other countries.
“Remember the word that I said unto you, The servant is not greater than his Lord. If they have persecuted me, they will also persecute you; if they have kept my saying, they will keep your's also.” (John 15:20 KJV).
The Lord Jesus, in this passage, continues to prepare His young disciples for the expected challenges they will encounter for being associated with Him. It is both an encouragement and a warning so they won't be caught helpless and vulnerable. Using the servant and master analogy, He warned them that if their Master was hated, they will not be treated any better. This passage gives the picture of the relational dynamics between the Lord, the disciples and the world.
With grim prospects ahead, and looming storms of persecution lurking, the Lord Jesus gives the disciples and us who follow their example in faith, a perspective of encouragement. Yes, we may be persecuted by the world. But, some may listen and keep the Lord's words of truth we share, as many did to what they heard from the Master. It should be looked to as a privilege to suffer as the Lord was (Colossians 1:24).
When we share in the Lord's suffering, being children of the Most High God and born again (John 3:3) by faith in Christ Jesus, we are blessed. The Spirit of glory and of God rest upon us, as it is written: "Beloved, do not be surprised at the fiery trial when it comes upon you to test you, as though something strange were happening to you. But rejoice insofar as you share Christ’s sufferings, that you may also rejoice and be glad when his glory is revealed. If you are insulted for the name of Christ, you are blessed, because the Spirit of glory and of God rests upon you.” (1 Peter 4:12-14 ESV).
And I say, AMEN!
Daily reflections by:
F. A. Frias
PFC Ministries
When God says... I say, AMEN! is a provocative reflection of the Lord's holy Word. It intends to challenge every seeker of truth to dig deep into the core of the Word of Life to point every being to Christ Jesus - the author and finisher of our faith, and to draw revelations for change, for nourishment and for strength of every soul.
Partners For Christ Ministries, INC
P. O. Box 773716
Ocala, FL 34477
Touching lives in Cambodia, The Philippines, The Middle East, The USA, and... other countries.
Saturday, December 7, 2024
The Gospel of John 15:18-19 When God Says...I Say, AMEN!
When God Says …
“If the world hate you, ye know that it hated me before it hated you. If ye were of the world, the world would love his own: but because ye are not of the world, but I have chosen you out of the world, therefore the world hateth you.” (John 15:18-19 KJV).
The Lord Jesus Christ, continuing with His parting Words with His beloved young apostles, warned that the world (meaning those who live apart from the Lord Jesus Christ and His grace) will hate them. And, us too who believe and receive the Lord's gift of salvation, because it hated Him first. We should not be surprised that as we stand on the ground of faith in Him, we'll be met with intense persecution by the world that hated Him. We should, therefore, use their hatred as litmus test for our right living. It keeps us in the know that we do not belong to the world. If we do, it cuddles us with their brand of love. As we don't, it targets us to submit in their ways using myriad tools of cancel culture, their world offerings and others. But, rest assured by grace, we belong to a higher kingdom, embraced by our Father's love, forever.
These passages, in essence, are telling me that I am to live my life to a lone audience, my Heavenly Father who loves me. He sent His only begotten Son to save you and I-all of us. Even when we were yet sinners as the world is, He died as ransom for the world (Romans 5:8). Yes, He died to save the world that hated Him. He laid His life to die in the hands of those He came to save. That, in spite, by believing in Him all shall be saved, even the world (John 3:16-18).
Hence, in the midst of its anger and hate we are to go into the world driven by love of our Lord and Father in us, that the world may be saved. We have His mandate. It is written: “And he said to them, “Go into all the world and proclaim the gospel to the whole creation. Whoever believes and is baptized will be saved, but whoever does not believe will be condemned.” (Mark 16:15-16 ESV).
And I say, AMEN!
Daily reflections by:
“If the world hate you, ye know that it hated me before it hated you. If ye were of the world, the world would love his own: but because ye are not of the world, but I have chosen you out of the world, therefore the world hateth you.” (John 15:18-19 KJV).
The Lord Jesus Christ, continuing with His parting Words with His beloved young apostles, warned that the world (meaning those who live apart from the Lord Jesus Christ and His grace) will hate them. And, us too who believe and receive the Lord's gift of salvation, because it hated Him first. We should not be surprised that as we stand on the ground of faith in Him, we'll be met with intense persecution by the world that hated Him. We should, therefore, use their hatred as litmus test for our right living. It keeps us in the know that we do not belong to the world. If we do, it cuddles us with their brand of love. As we don't, it targets us to submit in their ways using myriad tools of cancel culture, their world offerings and others. But, rest assured by grace, we belong to a higher kingdom, embraced by our Father's love, forever.
These passages, in essence, are telling me that I am to live my life to a lone audience, my Heavenly Father who loves me. He sent His only begotten Son to save you and I-all of us. Even when we were yet sinners as the world is, He died as ransom for the world (Romans 5:8). Yes, He died to save the world that hated Him. He laid His life to die in the hands of those He came to save. That, in spite, by believing in Him all shall be saved, even the world (John 3:16-18).
Hence, in the midst of its anger and hate we are to go into the world driven by love of our Lord and Father in us, that the world may be saved. We have His mandate. It is written: “And he said to them, “Go into all the world and proclaim the gospel to the whole creation. Whoever believes and is baptized will be saved, but whoever does not believe will be condemned.” (Mark 16:15-16 ESV).
And I say, AMEN!
Daily reflections by:
F. A. Frias
PFC Ministries
When God says... I say, AMEN! is a provocative reflection of the Lord's holy Word. It intends to challenge every seeker of truth to dig deep into the core of the Word of Life to point every being to Christ Jesus - the author and finisher of our faith, and to draw revelations for change, for nourishment and for strength of every soul.
Partners For Christ Ministries, INC
P. O. Box 773716
Ocala, FL 34477
Touching lives in Cambodia, The Philippines, The Middle East, The USA, and... other countries.
PFC Ministries
When God says... I say, AMEN! is a provocative reflection of the Lord's holy Word. It intends to challenge every seeker of truth to dig deep into the core of the Word of Life to point every being to Christ Jesus - the author and finisher of our faith, and to draw revelations for change, for nourishment and for strength of every soul.
Partners For Christ Ministries, INC
P. O. Box 773716
Ocala, FL 34477
Touching lives in Cambodia, The Philippines, The Middle East, The USA, and... other countries.
Friday, December 6, 2024
The Gospel of John 15:17 When God Says...I Say, AMEN!
When God Says …
“These things I command you, that ye love one another.” (John 15:17 KJV).
This command is addressed to the eleven apostles, and to us-true believers that follow. As we do believe, being saved by grace and born again in Christ Jesus, we are commanded to love one another. This is not a command for the world at large nor for the religious people then that rejected Him. This is not a command for followers of religions of this day who use the name of Jesus as label for their enterprises promoting non-Biblical doctrines and precepts borrowed from the pagan world. They are aliens to this command. They hated God's Word (John 17:14).
This is given to us who recognize that we are the beloved of the Lord Jesus Christ. He loved us first (1 John 4:19). As children of God in Christ, we are reminded to ... “See what kind of love the Father has given to us, that we should be called children of God; and so we are. The reason why the world does not know us is that it did not know him. Beloved, we are God’s children now, and what we will be has not yet appeared; but we know that when he appears we shall be like him, because we shall see him as he is. And everyone who thus hopes in him purifies himself as he is pure.” (1 John 3:1-3 ESV).
And I say, AMEN!
Daily reflections by:
F. A. Frias
PFC Ministries
When God says... I say, AMEN! is a provocative reflection of the Lord's holy Word. It intends to challenge every seeker of truth to dig deep into the core of the Word of Life to point every being to Christ Jesus - the author and finisher of our faith, and to draw revelations for change, for nourishment and for strength of every soul.
Partners For Christ Ministries, INC
P. O. Box 773716
Ocala, FL 34477
Touching lives in Cambodia, The Philippines, The Middle East, The USA, and... other countries.
“These things I command you, that ye love one another.” (John 15:17 KJV).
This command is addressed to the eleven apostles, and to us-true believers that follow. As we do believe, being saved by grace and born again in Christ Jesus, we are commanded to love one another. This is not a command for the world at large nor for the religious people then that rejected Him. This is not a command for followers of religions of this day who use the name of Jesus as label for their enterprises promoting non-Biblical doctrines and precepts borrowed from the pagan world. They are aliens to this command. They hated God's Word (John 17:14).
This is given to us who recognize that we are the beloved of the Lord Jesus Christ. He loved us first (1 John 4:19). As children of God in Christ, we are reminded to ... “See what kind of love the Father has given to us, that we should be called children of God; and so we are. The reason why the world does not know us is that it did not know him. Beloved, we are God’s children now, and what we will be has not yet appeared; but we know that when he appears we shall be like him, because we shall see him as he is. And everyone who thus hopes in him purifies himself as he is pure.” (1 John 3:1-3 ESV).
And I say, AMEN!
Daily reflections by:
F. A. Frias
PFC Ministries
When God says... I say, AMEN! is a provocative reflection of the Lord's holy Word. It intends to challenge every seeker of truth to dig deep into the core of the Word of Life to point every being to Christ Jesus - the author and finisher of our faith, and to draw revelations for change, for nourishment and for strength of every soul.
Partners For Christ Ministries, INC
P. O. Box 773716
Ocala, FL 34477
Touching lives in Cambodia, The Philippines, The Middle East, The USA, and... other countries.
Thursday, December 5, 2024
The Gospel of John 15:16 When God Says...I Say, AMEN!
When God Says …
“Ye have not chosen me, but I have chosen you, and ordained you, that ye should go and bring forth fruit, and that your fruit should remain: that whatsoever ye shall ask of the Father in my name, he may give it you.” (John 15:16 KJV).
When the Lord said to the disciples "you did not choose me, but I chose you" controversial thoughts were seeded by the enemy of our soul in the minds of many. Of this statement, many books are written about concepts and doctrines drawing people away from God's gospel of grace and truth. Many allude that God infringed on man's free will. That can be an easy idea to bring in from the perspective of the world who's bent on rejecting the sovereignty of God. That's handy to justify living apart from one's Creator.
Yes, the Father chooses us and draws us to come to the Lord Jesus Christ (John 6:44). The process starts as we seek God's kingdom and His righteousness (Matthew 6:33). Just like when the Lord Jesus called the first disciples. They were seeking Him. And they found Him, as revealed when, “Philip found Nathanael and told him, “We have found the one Moses wrote about in the Law, and about whom the prophets also wrote—Jesus of Nazareth, the son of Joseph.”” (John 1:45 NIV).
Hence, the Lord Jesus while walking through the shores of Galilee, came upon these young seekers. He chose and ordained upon them a new mission to bring forth fruit. And to us too, believers and unbelievers, who now have come and heard these Words, are called to follow and carry our mission. All there is to be done, specially those shackled by religion and precepts of the world, is to believe and follow Him. It is written: “And Jesus, walking by the sea of Galilee, saw two brethren, Simon called Peter, and Andrew his brother, casting a net into the sea: for they were fishers. And he saith unto them, Follow me, and I will make you fishers of men. And they straightway left their nets, and followed him.” (Matthew 4:18-20 KJV).
And I say, AMEN!
Daily reflections by:
F. A. Frias
PFC Ministries
When God says... I say, AMEN! is a provocative reflection of the Lord's holy Word. It intends to challenge every seeker of truth to dig deep into the core of the Word of Life to point every being to Christ Jesus - the author and finisher of our faith, and to draw revelations for change, for nourishment and for strength of every soul.
Partners For Christ Ministries, INC
P. O. Box 773716
Ocala, FL 34477
Touching lives in Cambodia, The Philippines, The Middle East, The USA, and... other countries.
“Ye have not chosen me, but I have chosen you, and ordained you, that ye should go and bring forth fruit, and that your fruit should remain: that whatsoever ye shall ask of the Father in my name, he may give it you.” (John 15:16 KJV).
When the Lord said to the disciples "you did not choose me, but I chose you" controversial thoughts were seeded by the enemy of our soul in the minds of many. Of this statement, many books are written about concepts and doctrines drawing people away from God's gospel of grace and truth. Many allude that God infringed on man's free will. That can be an easy idea to bring in from the perspective of the world who's bent on rejecting the sovereignty of God. That's handy to justify living apart from one's Creator.
Yes, the Father chooses us and draws us to come to the Lord Jesus Christ (John 6:44). The process starts as we seek God's kingdom and His righteousness (Matthew 6:33). Just like when the Lord Jesus called the first disciples. They were seeking Him. And they found Him, as revealed when, “Philip found Nathanael and told him, “We have found the one Moses wrote about in the Law, and about whom the prophets also wrote—Jesus of Nazareth, the son of Joseph.”” (John 1:45 NIV).
Hence, the Lord Jesus while walking through the shores of Galilee, came upon these young seekers. He chose and ordained upon them a new mission to bring forth fruit. And to us too, believers and unbelievers, who now have come and heard these Words, are called to follow and carry our mission. All there is to be done, specially those shackled by religion and precepts of the world, is to believe and follow Him. It is written: “And Jesus, walking by the sea of Galilee, saw two brethren, Simon called Peter, and Andrew his brother, casting a net into the sea: for they were fishers. And he saith unto them, Follow me, and I will make you fishers of men. And they straightway left their nets, and followed him.” (Matthew 4:18-20 KJV).
And I say, AMEN!
Daily reflections by:
F. A. Frias
PFC Ministries
When God says... I say, AMEN! is a provocative reflection of the Lord's holy Word. It intends to challenge every seeker of truth to dig deep into the core of the Word of Life to point every being to Christ Jesus - the author and finisher of our faith, and to draw revelations for change, for nourishment and for strength of every soul.
Partners For Christ Ministries, INC
P. O. Box 773716
Ocala, FL 34477
Touching lives in Cambodia, The Philippines, The Middle East, The USA, and... other countries.
Wednesday, December 4, 2024
The Gospel of John 15:15 When God Says...I Say, AMEN!
When God Says …
“Henceforth I call you not servants; for the servant knoweth not what his Lord doeth: but I have called you friends; for all things that I have heard of my Father I have made known unto you.” (John 15:15 KJV).
I am the friend of Christ Jesus! What a privilege, He called me friend! Out of the miry dungeon of slavery to sin, He plucked me out to elevate me to heavenly positions. Yes, I am made the righteousness of God. By faith in Him, I am seated in heavenly realms (Ephesians 2:6). Yes, we all - you and I, are now sons and daughters of the Most High God, by grace through faith in Christ Jesus (Galatians 3:26-27). This is not by penitence nor indulgence by men nor works of trying hard to be good by self-effort of religion. This by labor to enter His rest (Hebrews 4:11) looking unto Christ Jesus the author and finisher of our faith (Hebrews 12:2).
We are elevated into this state of heavenly friendship with the Son of the most High God. He also appointed us, as His ambassadors (2 Corinthians 5:20), to carry out His plans and His purposes in this dark and unbelieving world. As His friend, all the mysteries of God are made known to us, so that these might be made known through us to others that are lost in this squalid sinful world.
We have a friend, who answers when we call and delivers us from our fears, as the psalmist assured and testified: “I sought the Lord, and he answered me and delivered me from all my fears. Those who look to him are radiant, and their faces shall never be ashamed. This poor man cried, and the Lord heard him and saved him out of all his troubles.” (Psalm 34:4-6 ESV).
And I say, AMEN!
Daily reflections by:
“Henceforth I call you not servants; for the servant knoweth not what his Lord doeth: but I have called you friends; for all things that I have heard of my Father I have made known unto you.” (John 15:15 KJV).
I am the friend of Christ Jesus! What a privilege, He called me friend! Out of the miry dungeon of slavery to sin, He plucked me out to elevate me to heavenly positions. Yes, I am made the righteousness of God. By faith in Him, I am seated in heavenly realms (Ephesians 2:6). Yes, we all - you and I, are now sons and daughters of the Most High God, by grace through faith in Christ Jesus (Galatians 3:26-27). This is not by penitence nor indulgence by men nor works of trying hard to be good by self-effort of religion. This by labor to enter His rest (Hebrews 4:11) looking unto Christ Jesus the author and finisher of our faith (Hebrews 12:2).
We are elevated into this state of heavenly friendship with the Son of the most High God. He also appointed us, as His ambassadors (2 Corinthians 5:20), to carry out His plans and His purposes in this dark and unbelieving world. As His friend, all the mysteries of God are made known to us, so that these might be made known through us to others that are lost in this squalid sinful world.
We have a friend, who answers when we call and delivers us from our fears, as the psalmist assured and testified: “I sought the Lord, and he answered me and delivered me from all my fears. Those who look to him are radiant, and their faces shall never be ashamed. This poor man cried, and the Lord heard him and saved him out of all his troubles.” (Psalm 34:4-6 ESV).
And I say, AMEN!
Daily reflections by:
F. A. Frias
PFC Ministries
When God says... I say, AMEN! is a provocative reflection of the Lord's holy Word. It intends to challenge every seeker of truth to dig deep into the core of the Word of Life to point every being to Christ Jesus - the author and finisher of our faith, and to draw revelations for change, for nourishment and for strength of every soul.
Partners For Christ Ministries, INC
P. O. Box 773716
Ocala, FL 34477
Touching lives in Cambodia, The Philippines, The Middle East, The USA, and... other countries.
PFC Ministries
When God says... I say, AMEN! is a provocative reflection of the Lord's holy Word. It intends to challenge every seeker of truth to dig deep into the core of the Word of Life to point every being to Christ Jesus - the author and finisher of our faith, and to draw revelations for change, for nourishment and for strength of every soul.
Partners For Christ Ministries, INC
P. O. Box 773716
Ocala, FL 34477
Touching lives in Cambodia, The Philippines, The Middle East, The USA, and... other countries.
Tuesday, December 3, 2024
The Gospel of John 15:12-14 When God Says...I Say, AMEN!
When God Says …
“This is my commandment, That ye love one another, as I have loved you. Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends. Ye are my friends, if ye do whatsoever I command you.” (John 15:12-14 KJV).
"Love one another, as I have loved you!" This is such a profound and eye opening command that the Lord Jesus Christ plainly gave as part of His parting words to the eleven apostles. This encapsulates the gospel of grace and truth that He came for to draw us to His love. “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.” (John 3:16 KJV). It is a love that is willing to lay down one's life for the sake of others, which in this last moment with the disciples He was about to bear.
These verses bring forth a powerful message about the importance of love and obedience in the life of one who's born again by faith. Jesus is calling us to a kind of love that is sacrificial, unconditional, and willing to die so others can live. This kind of love is reflected on the Lord's own love for his followers, which He will demonstrate on the cross. That's exactly the love we are to manifest as we consent to be loved by Him. By totally resting in His grace, we become conscious of His love. Like Apostle John, we can boast of being "the disciple that Jesus loved." (John 13:23). By consenting Him to love us, totally dependent in His grace, He calls us friend.
In Christ Jesus, we are seeds of Abraham and heirs to the promise (Galatians 3:29). We are declared righteous (Romans 5:1), “and the Scripture was fulfilled that says, “Abraham believed God, and it was counted to him as righteousness”—and he was called a friend of God.” (James 2:23 ESV).
And I say, AMEN!
Daily reflections by:
F. A. Frias
PFC Ministries
When God says... I say, AMEN! is a provocative reflection of the Lord's holy Word. It intends to challenge every seeker of truth to dig deep into the core of the Word of Life to point every being to Christ Jesus - the author and finisher of our faith, and to draw revelations for change, for nourishment and for strength of every soul.
Partners For Christ Ministries, INC
P. O. Box 773716
Ocala, FL 34477
Touching lives in Cambodia, The Philippines, The Middle East, The USA, and... other countries.
Monday, December 2, 2024
The Gospel of John 15:11 When God Says...I Say, AMEN!
When God Says …
“I have told you this so that my joy may be in you and that your joy may be complete.” (John 15:11 NIV).
Complete joy, that is Christ Jesus in us! This is the brand of joy that flows from God through and within us. This joy does not depend on event and circumstance. This stems from our being, flowing through the vine into our system as the branch that's firmly connected with Christ Jesus by faith. This joy is the fruit of the Holy Spirit (Galatians 5:22). It arises by drawing our vital life force from Him.
The passages we've already been through in these reflections, talked about abiding in Christ. In John 6:56, the Lord Jesus tells the Jews in the synagogue that those who eat His flesh and drink His blood remain or abide in Him, and Him in them. This refers to the “living water” analogy that the Lord used with the Samaritan woman at the well in John 4:10. He is telling us of the gravity of abiding in His holy and written Words.
We abide in Christ Jesus resting in His grace by faith. As born again children of God, attached to the vine, the life we now live is in the Son of God, as Apostle Paul testified: “I have been crucified with Christ. It is no longer I who live, but Christ who lives in me. And the life I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me.” (Galatians 2:20 ESV).
And I say, AMEN!
Daily reflections by:
F. A. Frias
PFC Ministries
When God says... I say, AMEN! is a provocative reflection of the Lord's holy Word. It intends to challenge every seeker of truth to dig deep into the core of the Word of Life to point every being to Christ Jesus - the author and finisher of our faith, and to draw revelations for change, for nourishment and for strength of every soul.
Partners For Christ Ministries, INC
P. O. Box 773716
Ocala, FL 34477
Touching lives in Cambodia, The Philippines, The Middle East, The USA, and... other countries.
“I have told you this so that my joy may be in you and that your joy may be complete.” (John 15:11 NIV).
Complete joy, that is Christ Jesus in us! This is the brand of joy that flows from God through and within us. This joy does not depend on event and circumstance. This stems from our being, flowing through the vine into our system as the branch that's firmly connected with Christ Jesus by faith. This joy is the fruit of the Holy Spirit (Galatians 5:22). It arises by drawing our vital life force from Him.
The passages we've already been through in these reflections, talked about abiding in Christ. In John 6:56, the Lord Jesus tells the Jews in the synagogue that those who eat His flesh and drink His blood remain or abide in Him, and Him in them. This refers to the “living water” analogy that the Lord used with the Samaritan woman at the well in John 4:10. He is telling us of the gravity of abiding in His holy and written Words.
We abide in Christ Jesus resting in His grace by faith. As born again children of God, attached to the vine, the life we now live is in the Son of God, as Apostle Paul testified: “I have been crucified with Christ. It is no longer I who live, but Christ who lives in me. And the life I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me.” (Galatians 2:20 ESV).
And I say, AMEN!
Daily reflections by:
F. A. Frias
PFC Ministries
When God says... I say, AMEN! is a provocative reflection of the Lord's holy Word. It intends to challenge every seeker of truth to dig deep into the core of the Word of Life to point every being to Christ Jesus - the author and finisher of our faith, and to draw revelations for change, for nourishment and for strength of every soul.
Partners For Christ Ministries, INC
P. O. Box 773716
Ocala, FL 34477
Touching lives in Cambodia, The Philippines, The Middle East, The USA, and... other countries.
Sunday, December 1, 2024
The Gospel of John 15:9-10 When God Says...I Say, AMEN!
When God Says …
“As the Father hath loved me, so have I loved you: continue ye in my love. If ye keep my commandments, ye shall abide in my love; even as I have kept my Father's commandments, and abide in his love.” (John 15:9-10 KJV).
In these passages, the Lord Jesus commands us to get settled in His love, by believing in Him. That's what the Father expects of us (John 6:29). As the Father loves the Son, the Son loves us that He came so we may be saved through Him (Romans 5:10). Let's therefore come and abide in His love!
We can build our home and thrive in His love. Apostle Paul exhorts us with these assuring words: “What then shall we say to these things? If God is for us, who can be against us? He who did not spare his own Son but gave him up for us all, how will he not also with him graciously give us all things? Who shall bring any charge against God’s elect? It is God who justifies. Who is to condemn? Christ Jesus is the one who died—more than that, who was raised—who is at the right hand of God, who indeed is interceding for us. Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or danger, or sword?” (Romans 8:31-35 ESV).
And, Apostle Paul further declares this revelation from the risen Lord: "For I am sure that neither death nor life, nor angels nor rulers, nor things present nor things to come, nor powers, nor height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord." (Romans 8:38-39 ESV).
And I say, AMEN!
Daily reflections by:
F. A. Frias
PFC Ministries
When God says... I say, AMEN! is a provocative reflection of the Lord's holy Word. It intends to challenge every seeker of truth to dig deep into the core of the Word of Life to point every being to Christ Jesus - the author and finisher of our faith, and to draw revelations for change, for nourishment and for strength of every soul.
Partners For Christ Ministries, INC
P. O. Box 773716
Ocala, FL 34477
Touching lives in Cambodia, The Philippines, The Middle East, The USA, and... other countries.
“As the Father hath loved me, so have I loved you: continue ye in my love. If ye keep my commandments, ye shall abide in my love; even as I have kept my Father's commandments, and abide in his love.” (John 15:9-10 KJV).
In these passages, the Lord Jesus commands us to get settled in His love, by believing in Him. That's what the Father expects of us (John 6:29). As the Father loves the Son, the Son loves us that He came so we may be saved through Him (Romans 5:10). Let's therefore come and abide in His love!
We can build our home and thrive in His love. Apostle Paul exhorts us with these assuring words: “What then shall we say to these things? If God is for us, who can be against us? He who did not spare his own Son but gave him up for us all, how will he not also with him graciously give us all things? Who shall bring any charge against God’s elect? It is God who justifies. Who is to condemn? Christ Jesus is the one who died—more than that, who was raised—who is at the right hand of God, who indeed is interceding for us. Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or danger, or sword?” (Romans 8:31-35 ESV).
And I say, AMEN!
Daily reflections by:
F. A. Frias
PFC Ministries
When God says... I say, AMEN! is a provocative reflection of the Lord's holy Word. It intends to challenge every seeker of truth to dig deep into the core of the Word of Life to point every being to Christ Jesus - the author and finisher of our faith, and to draw revelations for change, for nourishment and for strength of every soul.
Partners For Christ Ministries, INC
P. O. Box 773716
Ocala, FL 34477
Touching lives in Cambodia, The Philippines, The Middle East, The USA, and... other countries.
Saturday, November 30, 2024
The Gospel of John 15:7-8 When God Says...I Say, AMEN!
When God Says …
“If ye abide in me, and my words abide in you, ye shall ask what ye will, and it shall be done unto you. Herein is my Father glorified, that ye bear much fruit; so shall ye be my disciples.” (John 15:7-8 KJV).
So often many in the religious circles seeing these verses through the eyes of their doctrines, are certainly disappointed. The promise here isn't reward for working, nor penitence, nor performing rituals, but by gift of grace through right believing. Religion only looks at the comforting words: “ask whatever you wish, and it will be done for you.” (John 15:7 NIV). They overlook the key, “If ye abide in Me, and My words abide in you. . .”. Right believing that produces the right fruits, comes by seeing through the right lens of God's grace, being settled by faith in Christ Jesus.
Abiding is to build a place to live-make a permanent dwelling. And, by this analogy, that is being attached to the vine who is the Lord Jesus Christ and dwelling in His Word. With total dependence on Him, we are to constantly be in His presence. We talk to Him and listen Him speaks to us in our meditation, quiet moments of prayers and in our reflections of His Words. Abiding in Him calls for our regular communion and conversation with Him of our deepest secrets. All these we do through His holy and written Words. His Words dwell in us richly (Colossians 3:16). The Lord and the Father dwell in us (John 14:10).
The Holy Spirit dwells within us (1 Corinthians 6:19), by His Words we ask in His will and it shall be done unto us. By faith we become the branch bearing fruits from within us - we being His disciples. Not coming from without, giving glory to the Father, we produce from within. Not by efforts, but by grace through faith. It is written: “But the Holy Spirit produces this kind of fruit in our lives: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control.” (Galatians 5:22-23a NLT).
And I say, AMEN!
Daily reflections by:
F. A. Frias
PFC Ministries
When God says... I say, AMEN! is a provocative reflection of the Lord's holy Word. It intends to challenge every seeker of truth to dig deep into the core of the Word of Life to point every being to Christ Jesus - the author and finisher of our faith, and to draw revelations for change, for nourishment and for strength of every soul.
Partners For Christ Ministries, INC
P. O. Box 773716
Ocala, FL 34477
Touching lives in Cambodia, The Philippines, The Middle East, The USA, and... other countries.
“If ye abide in me, and my words abide in you, ye shall ask what ye will, and it shall be done unto you. Herein is my Father glorified, that ye bear much fruit; so shall ye be my disciples.” (John 15:7-8 KJV).
So often many in the religious circles seeing these verses through the eyes of their doctrines, are certainly disappointed. The promise here isn't reward for working, nor penitence, nor performing rituals, but by gift of grace through right believing. Religion only looks at the comforting words: “ask whatever you wish, and it will be done for you.” (John 15:7 NIV). They overlook the key, “If ye abide in Me, and My words abide in you. . .”. Right believing that produces the right fruits, comes by seeing through the right lens of God's grace, being settled by faith in Christ Jesus.
Abiding is to build a place to live-make a permanent dwelling. And, by this analogy, that is being attached to the vine who is the Lord Jesus Christ and dwelling in His Word. With total dependence on Him, we are to constantly be in His presence. We talk to Him and listen Him speaks to us in our meditation, quiet moments of prayers and in our reflections of His Words. Abiding in Him calls for our regular communion and conversation with Him of our deepest secrets. All these we do through His holy and written Words. His Words dwell in us richly (Colossians 3:16). The Lord and the Father dwell in us (John 14:10).
The Holy Spirit dwells within us (1 Corinthians 6:19), by His Words we ask in His will and it shall be done unto us. By faith we become the branch bearing fruits from within us - we being His disciples. Not coming from without, giving glory to the Father, we produce from within. Not by efforts, but by grace through faith. It is written: “But the Holy Spirit produces this kind of fruit in our lives: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control.” (Galatians 5:22-23a NLT).
And I say, AMEN!
Daily reflections by:
F. A. Frias
PFC Ministries
When God says... I say, AMEN! is a provocative reflection of the Lord's holy Word. It intends to challenge every seeker of truth to dig deep into the core of the Word of Life to point every being to Christ Jesus - the author and finisher of our faith, and to draw revelations for change, for nourishment and for strength of every soul.
Partners For Christ Ministries, INC
P. O. Box 773716
Ocala, FL 34477
Touching lives in Cambodia, The Philippines, The Middle East, The USA, and... other countries.
Friday, November 29, 2024
The Gospel of John 15:6 When God Says...I Say, AMEN!
When God Says …
“If a man abide not in me, he is cast forth as a branch, and is withered; and men gather them, and cast them into the fire, and they are burned.” (John 15:6 KJV).
In this passage the Lord Jesus continues on the analogy using the picture of the vinedresser, who is the person of the Father, cutting off dead branches to illustrate that those who pretend to have faith loitering around but not really connected to the source of eternal life are not truly saved. They are dead branches. Like Judas, who was able to get in the Lord's inner circle, He was not clean (John 13:10-11). Hence, not saved. Giving the image of fire in hell, those cleared branches that are detached from the vine, as Judas was, they whither. They are gathered and thrown into the fire and burned. Such a graphic picture it is to languish in eternity.
Hell is not an option. This passage's illustration is a pop up alert for the unbelieving world to connect with the vine. That, they can do by believing in the only Son of God (John 6:29). Then, come to the throne of grace by the finished work on the cross through faith in Christ Jesus to obtain mercy (Hebrews 4:16). And, to those who are saved, this reminds us to remain abiding by faith in the vine, focused on Christ Jesus the author and finisher of our faith (Hebrews 12:2). Torment is not an option. Scriptures describe: “And the smoke of their torment will rise for ever and ever. There will be no rest day or night for those who worship the beast and its image, or for anyone who receives the mark of its name.”” (Revelation 14:11 NIV).
And I say, AMEN!
Daily reflections by:
F. A. Frias
PFC Ministries
When God says... I say, AMEN! is a provocative reflection of the Lord's holy Word. It intends to challenge every seeker of truth to dig deep into the core of the Word of Life to point every being to Christ Jesus - the author and finisher of our faith, and to draw revelations for change, for nourishment and for strength of every soul.
Partners For Christ Ministries, INC
P. O. Box 773716
Ocala, FL 34477
Touching lives in Cambodia, The Philippines, The Middle East, The USA, and... other countries.
“If a man abide not in me, he is cast forth as a branch, and is withered; and men gather them, and cast them into the fire, and they are burned.” (John 15:6 KJV).
In this passage the Lord Jesus continues on the analogy using the picture of the vinedresser, who is the person of the Father, cutting off dead branches to illustrate that those who pretend to have faith loitering around but not really connected to the source of eternal life are not truly saved. They are dead branches. Like Judas, who was able to get in the Lord's inner circle, He was not clean (John 13:10-11). Hence, not saved. Giving the image of fire in hell, those cleared branches that are detached from the vine, as Judas was, they whither. They are gathered and thrown into the fire and burned. Such a graphic picture it is to languish in eternity.
Hell is not an option. This passage's illustration is a pop up alert for the unbelieving world to connect with the vine. That, they can do by believing in the only Son of God (John 6:29). Then, come to the throne of grace by the finished work on the cross through faith in Christ Jesus to obtain mercy (Hebrews 4:16). And, to those who are saved, this reminds us to remain abiding by faith in the vine, focused on Christ Jesus the author and finisher of our faith (Hebrews 12:2). Torment is not an option. Scriptures describe: “And the smoke of their torment will rise for ever and ever. There will be no rest day or night for those who worship the beast and its image, or for anyone who receives the mark of its name.”” (Revelation 14:11 NIV).
And I say, AMEN!
Daily reflections by:
F. A. Frias
PFC Ministries
When God says... I say, AMEN! is a provocative reflection of the Lord's holy Word. It intends to challenge every seeker of truth to dig deep into the core of the Word of Life to point every being to Christ Jesus - the author and finisher of our faith, and to draw revelations for change, for nourishment and for strength of every soul.
Partners For Christ Ministries, INC
P. O. Box 773716
Ocala, FL 34477
Touching lives in Cambodia, The Philippines, The Middle East, The USA, and... other countries.
Thursday, November 28, 2024
The Gospel of John 15:4-5 When God Says...I Say, AMEN!
When God Says …
“Abide in me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit of itself, except it abide in the vine; no more can ye, except ye abide in me. I am the vine, ye are the branches: He that abideth in me, and I in him, the same bringeth forth much fruit: for without me ye can do nothing.” (John 15:4-5 KJV)
With the vine and branch illustration, the Lord Jesus is reminding His eleven disciples, and us now: He is the vine who supplies us the nutrients, we being the branch. The Lord - the vine, supplies the essential power for us to bear fruits. Our role, as the branch, is to bear the fruit by abiding in Him. We manifest what the Lord Jesus channel from within our system connected with Him, by believing. It is not by our effort. It is by our faith that we are attached to the One source.
Many tried and are trying to be the vine. Some semblance of results may manifest by works of self effort. But, those are temporal and fleeting. One may claim credit for the good things supplied to us, but the truth is, those come from the vine. For apart from Him, we can do nothing (John 15:5b).
Hence, Apostle Paul exhorts us to work out our faith for every good work of salvation: “for it is God who works in you, both to will and to work for his good pleasure. Do all things without grumbling or disputing, that you may be blameless and innocent, children of God without blemish in the midst of a crooked and twisted generation, among whom you shine as lights in the world, holding fast to the word of life," (Philippians 2:13-16a ESV).
And I say, AMEN!
Daily reflections by:
F. A. Frias
PFC Ministries
When God says... I say, AMEN! is a provocative reflection of the Lord's holy Word. It intends to challenge every seeker of truth to dig deep into the core of the Word of Life to point every being to Christ Jesus - the author and finisher of our faith, and to draw revelations for change, for nourishment and for strength of every soul.
Partners For Christ Ministries, INC
P. O. Box 773716
Ocala, FL 34477
Touching lives in Cambodia, The Philippines, The Middle East, The USA, and... other countries.
“Abide in me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit of itself, except it abide in the vine; no more can ye, except ye abide in me. I am the vine, ye are the branches: He that abideth in me, and I in him, the same bringeth forth much fruit: for without me ye can do nothing.” (John 15:4-5 KJV)
With the vine and branch illustration, the Lord Jesus is reminding His eleven disciples, and us now: He is the vine who supplies us the nutrients, we being the branch. The Lord - the vine, supplies the essential power for us to bear fruits. Our role, as the branch, is to bear the fruit by abiding in Him. We manifest what the Lord Jesus channel from within our system connected with Him, by believing. It is not by our effort. It is by our faith that we are attached to the One source.
Many tried and are trying to be the vine. Some semblance of results may manifest by works of self effort. But, those are temporal and fleeting. One may claim credit for the good things supplied to us, but the truth is, those come from the vine. For apart from Him, we can do nothing (John 15:5b).
Hence, Apostle Paul exhorts us to work out our faith for every good work of salvation: “for it is God who works in you, both to will and to work for his good pleasure. Do all things without grumbling or disputing, that you may be blameless and innocent, children of God without blemish in the midst of a crooked and twisted generation, among whom you shine as lights in the world, holding fast to the word of life," (Philippians 2:13-16a ESV).
And I say, AMEN!
Daily reflections by:
F. A. Frias
PFC Ministries
When God says... I say, AMEN! is a provocative reflection of the Lord's holy Word. It intends to challenge every seeker of truth to dig deep into the core of the Word of Life to point every being to Christ Jesus - the author and finisher of our faith, and to draw revelations for change, for nourishment and for strength of every soul.
Partners For Christ Ministries, INC
P. O. Box 773716
Ocala, FL 34477
Touching lives in Cambodia, The Philippines, The Middle East, The USA, and... other countries.
Wednesday, November 27, 2024
The Gospel of John 15:3 When God Says...I Say, AMEN!
When God Says …
“Now ye are clean through the word which I have spoken unto you.” (John 15:3 KJV).
Embedding this passage in the middle of this analogy of the vine and the branches, the Lord aims to clarify and reassure the disciples and us about His earlier lesson of washing of the feet. We learn from the analogy's opening lines that the unfruitful branches are cut and thrown away. They refer to those who pretend to follow Christ and those who follow religion that carries the Christian label. They are either or both impostors, and/or believing wrongly.
When the Lord Jesus Christ washed the disciples' feet, it reveals that those who have saving faith in Him are "clean". They are the eleven disciples whom He now speaks to. They and others who put their faith in the Lord Jesus Christ are the branches that the Father purges to produce much fruits. Hence, the Lord embedded this passage to expose clearly who the "dead branches" are. They are the fake believers, the pretenders, those who try hard to observe the law of whom the finished work of Christ Jesus has no effect. They are fallen from grace (Galatians 5:4).
The productive branches are those who are washed clean by the living water of God's Words. They are reborn by grace through faith in Christ. Yes, that's what we must do, remain in the His grace by faith, and meditate His holy and written Words day and night (1 Peter 1:23-25). As we do that, the Psalmist testifies: “He is like a tree planted by streams of water that yields its fruit in its season, and its leaf does not wither. In all that he does, he prospers.” (Psalm 1:3 ESV).
And I say, AMEN!
Daily reflections by:
F. A. Frias
PFC Ministries
When God says... I say, AMEN! is a provocative reflection of the Lord's holy Word. It intends to challenge every seeker of truth to dig deep into the core of the Word of Life to point every being to Christ Jesus - the author and finisher of our faith, and to draw revelations for change, for nourishment and for strength of every soul.
Partners For Christ Ministries, INC
P. O. Box 773716
Ocala, FL 34477
Touching lives in Cambodia, The Philippines, The Middle East, The USA, and... other countries.
“Now ye are clean through the word which I have spoken unto you.” (John 15:3 KJV).
Embedding this passage in the middle of this analogy of the vine and the branches, the Lord aims to clarify and reassure the disciples and us about His earlier lesson of washing of the feet. We learn from the analogy's opening lines that the unfruitful branches are cut and thrown away. They refer to those who pretend to follow Christ and those who follow religion that carries the Christian label. They are either or both impostors, and/or believing wrongly.
When the Lord Jesus Christ washed the disciples' feet, it reveals that those who have saving faith in Him are "clean". They are the eleven disciples whom He now speaks to. They and others who put their faith in the Lord Jesus Christ are the branches that the Father purges to produce much fruits. Hence, the Lord embedded this passage to expose clearly who the "dead branches" are. They are the fake believers, the pretenders, those who try hard to observe the law of whom the finished work of Christ Jesus has no effect. They are fallen from grace (Galatians 5:4).
The productive branches are those who are washed clean by the living water of God's Words. They are reborn by grace through faith in Christ. Yes, that's what we must do, remain in the His grace by faith, and meditate His holy and written Words day and night (1 Peter 1:23-25). As we do that, the Psalmist testifies: “He is like a tree planted by streams of water that yields its fruit in its season, and its leaf does not wither. In all that he does, he prospers.” (Psalm 1:3 ESV).
And I say, AMEN!
Daily reflections by:
F. A. Frias
PFC Ministries
When God says... I say, AMEN! is a provocative reflection of the Lord's holy Word. It intends to challenge every seeker of truth to dig deep into the core of the Word of Life to point every being to Christ Jesus - the author and finisher of our faith, and to draw revelations for change, for nourishment and for strength of every soul.
Partners For Christ Ministries, INC
P. O. Box 773716
Ocala, FL 34477
Touching lives in Cambodia, The Philippines, The Middle East, The USA, and... other countries.
Tuesday, November 26, 2024
The Gospel of John 15:1-2 When God Says...I Say, AMEN!
When God Says …
“I am the true vine, and my Father is the husbandman. Every branch in me that beareth not fruit he taketh away: and every branch that beareth fruit, he purgeth it, that it may bring forth more fruit.” (John 15:1-2 KJV).
The analogies of the vine and the vineyard are profound tools used by the Lord Jesus to drive in the fruitful message of grace and truth for the salvation of mankind. It is a familiar example to grasp on in an agrarian society. It is rooted in the system of seed time and harvest that God established after the flood. He declared to Noah: “As long as the earth endures, seedtime and harvest, cold and heat, summer and winter, day and night will never cease.” (Genesis 8:22 NIV).
The disciples, who were Jewish and familiar with growing and tending the vine, are expected to understand this metaphor. With the Father being the husbandman (the vine-grower), the Lord Jesus being the vine and we (who believe in Him) being the branches, the Lord Jesus is giving the message of truth that for us to bear fruits the Father holds the whole process that we know not (Mark 4:27). As we remain connected with the vine by our faith in Christ Jesus, He tends the vine, clears the dead branches and prunes the live branches-signifying that those undesirable things in our lives have to be discarded. It is all by faith in Christ Jesus, through grace. Not by our trying-hard effort, but from within. Then, we bear much fruit in the Spirit who is in us flowing through the Vine, as Apostle Paul exhorts: “But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control; against such things there is no law.” (Galatians 5:22-23 ESV).
And I say, AMEN!
Daily reflections by:
“I am the true vine, and my Father is the husbandman. Every branch in me that beareth not fruit he taketh away: and every branch that beareth fruit, he purgeth it, that it may bring forth more fruit.” (John 15:1-2 KJV).
The analogies of the vine and the vineyard are profound tools used by the Lord Jesus to drive in the fruitful message of grace and truth for the salvation of mankind. It is a familiar example to grasp on in an agrarian society. It is rooted in the system of seed time and harvest that God established after the flood. He declared to Noah: “As long as the earth endures, seedtime and harvest, cold and heat, summer and winter, day and night will never cease.” (Genesis 8:22 NIV).
The disciples, who were Jewish and familiar with growing and tending the vine, are expected to understand this metaphor. With the Father being the husbandman (the vine-grower), the Lord Jesus being the vine and we (who believe in Him) being the branches, the Lord Jesus is giving the message of truth that for us to bear fruits the Father holds the whole process that we know not (Mark 4:27). As we remain connected with the vine by our faith in Christ Jesus, He tends the vine, clears the dead branches and prunes the live branches-signifying that those undesirable things in our lives have to be discarded. It is all by faith in Christ Jesus, through grace. Not by our trying-hard effort, but from within. Then, we bear much fruit in the Spirit who is in us flowing through the Vine, as Apostle Paul exhorts: “But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control; against such things there is no law.” (Galatians 5:22-23 ESV).
And I say, AMEN!
Daily reflections by:
F. A. Frias
PFC Ministries
When God says... I say, AMEN! is a provocative reflection of the Lord's holy Word. It intends to challenge every seeker of truth to dig deep into the core of the Word of Life to point every being to Christ Jesus - the author and finisher of our faith, and to draw revelations for change, for nourishment and for strength of every soul.
Partners For Christ Ministries, INC
P. O. Box 773716
Ocala, FL 34477
Touching lives in Cambodia, The Philippines, The Middle East, The USA, and... other countries.
PFC Ministries
When God says... I say, AMEN! is a provocative reflection of the Lord's holy Word. It intends to challenge every seeker of truth to dig deep into the core of the Word of Life to point every being to Christ Jesus - the author and finisher of our faith, and to draw revelations for change, for nourishment and for strength of every soul.
Partners For Christ Ministries, INC
P. O. Box 773716
Ocala, FL 34477
Touching lives in Cambodia, The Philippines, The Middle East, The USA, and... other countries.
Monday, November 25, 2024
The Gospel of John 14:29-31 When God Says...I Say, AMEN!
When God Says …
“And now I have told you before it come to pass, that, when it is come to pass, ye might believe. Hereafter I will not talk much with you: for the prince of this world cometh, and hath nothing in me. But that the world may know that I love the Father; and as the Father gave me commandment, even so I do. Arise, let us go hence.” (John 14:29-31 KJV).
The Lord Jesus Christ in these passages is giving His final parting Words to cement the belief of His young disciples, as the prince of the world is about to mount an attack. Having gone deep into these reflections, we can now feel the real-time impact on the disciples' well being. We could sense it. Hearing your Master giving farewell instructions like a father or mother telling his or her children - "don't forget all that I just told you", as they go to a destination you haven't fully grasp.
On the Lord's part being in human flesh, yet knowing the state of being of the disciples' that He loved, I won't attempt to second guess. But, I could recall my mixed feelings during the last moments before flying to a war zone in Saudi Arabia, leaving Mae who just brought Sarah into the world, with Hannah very young at Six years of age, kissing them goodbye not knowing I'd see them again. I was thankful then that I know in my heart, with faith in my Heavenly Father and Lord Jesus Christ, we're held secure in their Mighty Hands. No one can snatch us from their hands (John 10:28-29). The feeling was overwhelming. Though I couldn't fully articulate it, even now looking back in hindsight. But, I know God is the One and Only Promise Keeper. His Words and Promises came to pass and always will. To those who trust in Him He assures, as He declared to Abraham: “After this, the word of the Lord came to Abram in a vision: “Do not be afraid, Abram. I am your shield, your very great reward.”” (Genesis 15:1b NIV).
The hour has come. The Lord is ready to arise, leave the upper room and head for a face off with the prince of the world at the Mount of Olives. Hence, I can feel the eloquence of His last Words to the disciples which The Message Bible paraphrase poignantly puts, as it is written: ““I’ve told you this ahead of time, before it happens, so that when it does happen, the confirmation will deepen your belief in me. I’ll not be talking with you much more like this because the chief of this godless world is about to attack. But don’t worry—he has nothing on me, no claim on me. But so the world might know how thoroughly I love the Father, I am carrying out my Father’s instructions right down to the last detail.” (John 14:29-31 MSG).
And I say, AMEN!
Daily reflections by:
F. A. Frias
PFC Ministries
When God says... I say, AMEN! is a provocative reflection of the Lord's holy Word. It intends to challenge every seeker of truth to dig deep into the core of the Word of Life to point every being to Christ Jesus - the author and finisher of our faith, and to draw revelations for change, for nourishment and for strength of every soul.
Partners For Christ Ministries, INC
P. O. Box 773716
Ocala, FL 34477
Touching lives in Cambodia, The Philippines, The Middle East, The USA, and... other countries.
“And now I have told you before it come to pass, that, when it is come to pass, ye might believe. Hereafter I will not talk much with you: for the prince of this world cometh, and hath nothing in me. But that the world may know that I love the Father; and as the Father gave me commandment, even so I do. Arise, let us go hence.” (John 14:29-31 KJV).
The Lord Jesus Christ in these passages is giving His final parting Words to cement the belief of His young disciples, as the prince of the world is about to mount an attack. Having gone deep into these reflections, we can now feel the real-time impact on the disciples' well being. We could sense it. Hearing your Master giving farewell instructions like a father or mother telling his or her children - "don't forget all that I just told you", as they go to a destination you haven't fully grasp.
On the Lord's part being in human flesh, yet knowing the state of being of the disciples' that He loved, I won't attempt to second guess. But, I could recall my mixed feelings during the last moments before flying to a war zone in Saudi Arabia, leaving Mae who just brought Sarah into the world, with Hannah very young at Six years of age, kissing them goodbye not knowing I'd see them again. I was thankful then that I know in my heart, with faith in my Heavenly Father and Lord Jesus Christ, we're held secure in their Mighty Hands. No one can snatch us from their hands (John 10:28-29). The feeling was overwhelming. Though I couldn't fully articulate it, even now looking back in hindsight. But, I know God is the One and Only Promise Keeper. His Words and Promises came to pass and always will. To those who trust in Him He assures, as He declared to Abraham: “After this, the word of the Lord came to Abram in a vision: “Do not be afraid, Abram. I am your shield, your very great reward.”” (Genesis 15:1b NIV).
The hour has come. The Lord is ready to arise, leave the upper room and head for a face off with the prince of the world at the Mount of Olives. Hence, I can feel the eloquence of His last Words to the disciples which The Message Bible paraphrase poignantly puts, as it is written: ““I’ve told you this ahead of time, before it happens, so that when it does happen, the confirmation will deepen your belief in me. I’ll not be talking with you much more like this because the chief of this godless world is about to attack. But don’t worry—he has nothing on me, no claim on me. But so the world might know how thoroughly I love the Father, I am carrying out my Father’s instructions right down to the last detail.” (John 14:29-31 MSG).
And I say, AMEN!
Daily reflections by:
F. A. Frias
PFC Ministries
When God says... I say, AMEN! is a provocative reflection of the Lord's holy Word. It intends to challenge every seeker of truth to dig deep into the core of the Word of Life to point every being to Christ Jesus - the author and finisher of our faith, and to draw revelations for change, for nourishment and for strength of every soul.
Partners For Christ Ministries, INC
P. O. Box 773716
Ocala, FL 34477
Touching lives in Cambodia, The Philippines, The Middle East, The USA, and... other countries.
Sunday, November 24, 2024
The Gospel of John 14:28 When God Says...I Say, AMEN!
When God Says …
“Ye have heard how I said unto you, I go away, and come again unto you. If ye loved me, ye would rejoice, because I said, I go unto the Father: for my Father is greater than I.” (John 14:28 KJV).
In his epistle to the Colossians, Apostle Paul reminds: “See to it that no one takes you captive through hollow and deceptive philosophy, which depends on human tradition and the elemental spiritual forces of this world rather than on Christ. For in Christ all the fullness of the Deity lives in bodily form, and in Christ you have been brought to fullness. He is the head over every power and authority.” (Colossians 2:8-10 NIV). The Lord Jesus said in our passage in this reflection episode, 'I go away, and come again' He is talking of His inferior human form. In this sad and unsettling moments of uncertainties in the minds of the disciples, the Lord remained vigilant to allay their confusion and fears. He is going, in glorified form, to the Father who is greater.
The Lord Jesus, clothe with a physical body, occupies space in the physical world. Hence, we should understand what it means for him to enter and leave the world. When He says 'I am going to the Father, for the Father is greater than I' He alerts the disciples and us to rejoice knowing this truth. His dying in the flesh is re-entering into the Spirit realm that He was and is, in eternity past and in eternity future. In His nature in Spirit, He can always be with and in everyone of us who welcomes and believes in Him. In the physical, He was limited by space and time.
Now, as with the disciples, we have all the reasons to rejoice knowing that by grace through faith we are loved by Him. He gave Himself for us on the cross and is now with the Father. Hence, we can live in the fullness of His power by faith, as Apostle Paul testified: “I have been crucified with Christ. It is no longer I who live, but Christ who lives in me. And the life I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me.” (Galatians 2:20 ESV).
And I say, AMEN!
Daily reflections by:
F. A. Frias
PFC Ministries
When God says... I say, AMEN! is a provocative reflection of the Lord's holy Word. It intends to challenge every seeker of truth to dig deep into the core of the Word of Life to point every being to Christ Jesus - the author and finisher of our faith, and to draw revelations for change, for nourishment and for strength of every soul.
Partners For Christ Ministries, INC
P. O. Box 773716
Ocala, FL 34477
Touching lives in Cambodia, The Philippines, The Middle East, The USA, and... other countries.
“Ye have heard how I said unto you, I go away, and come again unto you. If ye loved me, ye would rejoice, because I said, I go unto the Father: for my Father is greater than I.” (John 14:28 KJV).
In his epistle to the Colossians, Apostle Paul reminds: “See to it that no one takes you captive through hollow and deceptive philosophy, which depends on human tradition and the elemental spiritual forces of this world rather than on Christ. For in Christ all the fullness of the Deity lives in bodily form, and in Christ you have been brought to fullness. He is the head over every power and authority.” (Colossians 2:8-10 NIV). The Lord Jesus said in our passage in this reflection episode, 'I go away, and come again' He is talking of His inferior human form. In this sad and unsettling moments of uncertainties in the minds of the disciples, the Lord remained vigilant to allay their confusion and fears. He is going, in glorified form, to the Father who is greater.
The Lord Jesus, clothe with a physical body, occupies space in the physical world. Hence, we should understand what it means for him to enter and leave the world. When He says 'I am going to the Father, for the Father is greater than I' He alerts the disciples and us to rejoice knowing this truth. His dying in the flesh is re-entering into the Spirit realm that He was and is, in eternity past and in eternity future. In His nature in Spirit, He can always be with and in everyone of us who welcomes and believes in Him. In the physical, He was limited by space and time.
Now, as with the disciples, we have all the reasons to rejoice knowing that by grace through faith we are loved by Him. He gave Himself for us on the cross and is now with the Father. Hence, we can live in the fullness of His power by faith, as Apostle Paul testified: “I have been crucified with Christ. It is no longer I who live, but Christ who lives in me. And the life I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me.” (Galatians 2:20 ESV).
And I say, AMEN!
Daily reflections by:
F. A. Frias
PFC Ministries
When God says... I say, AMEN! is a provocative reflection of the Lord's holy Word. It intends to challenge every seeker of truth to dig deep into the core of the Word of Life to point every being to Christ Jesus - the author and finisher of our faith, and to draw revelations for change, for nourishment and for strength of every soul.
Partners For Christ Ministries, INC
P. O. Box 773716
Ocala, FL 34477
Touching lives in Cambodia, The Philippines, The Middle East, The USA, and... other countries.
Saturday, November 23, 2024
The Gospel of John 14:27 When God Says...I Say, AMEN!
When God Says …
“Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.” (John 14:27 KJV).
In earlier reminders, the Lord Jesus admonished the disciples to love and keep His commandments. To fulfill this, He promised to send them the Holy Spirit, who is our Helper, the Spirit of truth. He will teach them and us, all things, and bring to their remembrance and to us too, all things that the Lord Jesus said while with them in the flesh.
This is the first promise of the Holy Spirit to the disciples. With the Holy Spirit in us, He offers the strong assurance of the peace of God that transcends our human understanding.
In fulfillment of this offer, the Holy Spirit who is active and present in our lives the moment we receive the Lordship of Christ Jesus by His grace through faith and we become born again, this fruit of peace (Galatians 5:22) is bestowed on us. It is neither based on circumstance nor by the offerings of the world. It is not from the outside in, but as fruit from within through the Vine that our loving Savior gives.
This is the kind of peace not available in this world. It is imported from heaven, specially delivered through the Holy Spirit - the Comforter that the Lord Jesus sends to be with and in each and every one of us who are declared children of the Most High God. It is the kind of peace that guards our hearts and minds, as Apostle Paul exhorts, “And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” (Philippians 4:7 ESV).
And I say, AMEN!
Daily reflections by:
“Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.” (John 14:27 KJV).
In earlier reminders, the Lord Jesus admonished the disciples to love and keep His commandments. To fulfill this, He promised to send them the Holy Spirit, who is our Helper, the Spirit of truth. He will teach them and us, all things, and bring to their remembrance and to us too, all things that the Lord Jesus said while with them in the flesh.
This is the first promise of the Holy Spirit to the disciples. With the Holy Spirit in us, He offers the strong assurance of the peace of God that transcends our human understanding.
In fulfillment of this offer, the Holy Spirit who is active and present in our lives the moment we receive the Lordship of Christ Jesus by His grace through faith and we become born again, this fruit of peace (Galatians 5:22) is bestowed on us. It is neither based on circumstance nor by the offerings of the world. It is not from the outside in, but as fruit from within through the Vine that our loving Savior gives.
This is the kind of peace not available in this world. It is imported from heaven, specially delivered through the Holy Spirit - the Comforter that the Lord Jesus sends to be with and in each and every one of us who are declared children of the Most High God. It is the kind of peace that guards our hearts and minds, as Apostle Paul exhorts, “And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” (Philippians 4:7 ESV).
And I say, AMEN!
Daily reflections by:
F. A. Frias
PFC Ministries
When God says... I say, AMEN! is a provocative reflection of the Lord's holy Word. It intends to challenge every seeker of truth to dig deep into the core of the Word of Life to point every being to Christ Jesus - the author and finisher of our faith, and to draw revelations for change, for nourishment and for strength of every soul.
Partners For Christ Ministries, INC
P. O. Box 773716
Ocala, FL 34477
Touching lives in Cambodia, The Philippines, The Middle East, The USA, and... other countries.
PFC Ministries
When God says... I say, AMEN! is a provocative reflection of the Lord's holy Word. It intends to challenge every seeker of truth to dig deep into the core of the Word of Life to point every being to Christ Jesus - the author and finisher of our faith, and to draw revelations for change, for nourishment and for strength of every soul.
Partners For Christ Ministries, INC
P. O. Box 773716
Ocala, FL 34477
Touching lives in Cambodia, The Philippines, The Middle East, The USA, and... other countries.
Friday, November 22, 2024
The Gospel of John 14:25-26 When God Says...I Say, AMEN!
When God Says …
“These things have I spoken unto you, being yet present with you. But the Comforter, which is the Holy Ghost, whom the Father will send in my name, he shall teach you all things, and bring all things to your remembrance, whatsoever I have said unto you.” (John 14:25-26 KJV).
The Lord Jesus, in this last moments with His inner core disciples, knowing the fear that's building in them, continues to give them comfort. Knowing the impact of these crucial short time they have together, He cautioned them earlier: “Do not let your hearts be troubled. You believe in God; believe also in me.” (John 14:1 NIV). Yes, they have all the reasons to fear and be troubled with what's transpiring. They are confused with the events unfolding not as they expected. Being told that in a short-while their Master will be leaving to go where they could not go, they're troubled. They've been with Him for three years going with Him wherever He goes. Now, these young disciples are informed, their Teacher is going away where they could not go. Yes, they are confused and troubled. Perhaps they're anxious what happens when He's gone?!
Hence, the Lord knowing this, as He knows what's going on in their hearts, and ours, too, He gives His comforting promise. When we are confused and troubled with things that may be unfolding in our lives, like the disciples were, being His children born again by faith Him, He comforts us. He sends the Holy Spirit, who transforms us into a new being, from natural to spiritual. Now, in Christ Jesus, we are renewed in spirit (Ephesians 4:23). We now have the mind of Christ by faith to fully grasp all that He taught.
Apostle Paul exhorts and reminds, that: “The natural person does not accept the things of the Spirit of God, for they are folly to him, and he is not able to understand them because they are spiritually discerned. The spiritual person judges all things, but is himself to be judged by no one. “For who has understood the mind of the Lord so as to instruct him?” But we have the mind of Christ.” (1 Corinthians 2:14-16 ESV).
And I say, AMEN!
Daily reflections by:
F. A. Frias
PFC Ministries
When God says... I say, AMEN! is a provocative reflection of the Lord's holy Word. It intends to challenge every seeker of truth to dig deep into the core of the Word of Life to point every being to Christ Jesus - the author and finisher of our faith, and to draw revelations for change, for nourishment and for strength of every soul.
Partners For Christ Ministries, INC
P. O. Box 773716
Ocala, FL 34477
Touching lives in Cambodia, The Philippines, The Middle East, The USA, and... other countries.
“These things have I spoken unto you, being yet present with you. But the Comforter, which is the Holy Ghost, whom the Father will send in my name, he shall teach you all things, and bring all things to your remembrance, whatsoever I have said unto you.” (John 14:25-26 KJV).
The Lord Jesus, in this last moments with His inner core disciples, knowing the fear that's building in them, continues to give them comfort. Knowing the impact of these crucial short time they have together, He cautioned them earlier: “Do not let your hearts be troubled. You believe in God; believe also in me.” (John 14:1 NIV). Yes, they have all the reasons to fear and be troubled with what's transpiring. They are confused with the events unfolding not as they expected. Being told that in a short-while their Master will be leaving to go where they could not go, they're troubled. They've been with Him for three years going with Him wherever He goes. Now, these young disciples are informed, their Teacher is going away where they could not go. Yes, they are confused and troubled. Perhaps they're anxious what happens when He's gone?!
Hence, the Lord knowing this, as He knows what's going on in their hearts, and ours, too, He gives His comforting promise. When we are confused and troubled with things that may be unfolding in our lives, like the disciples were, being His children born again by faith Him, He comforts us. He sends the Holy Spirit, who transforms us into a new being, from natural to spiritual. Now, in Christ Jesus, we are renewed in spirit (Ephesians 4:23). We now have the mind of Christ by faith to fully grasp all that He taught.
Apostle Paul exhorts and reminds, that: “The natural person does not accept the things of the Spirit of God, for they are folly to him, and he is not able to understand them because they are spiritually discerned. The spiritual person judges all things, but is himself to be judged by no one. “For who has understood the mind of the Lord so as to instruct him?” But we have the mind of Christ.” (1 Corinthians 2:14-16 ESV).
And I say, AMEN!
Daily reflections by:
F. A. Frias
PFC Ministries
When God says... I say, AMEN! is a provocative reflection of the Lord's holy Word. It intends to challenge every seeker of truth to dig deep into the core of the Word of Life to point every being to Christ Jesus - the author and finisher of our faith, and to draw revelations for change, for nourishment and for strength of every soul.
Partners For Christ Ministries, INC
P. O. Box 773716
Ocala, FL 34477
Touching lives in Cambodia, The Philippines, The Middle East, The USA, and... other countries.
Thursday, November 21, 2024
The Gospel of John 14:24 When God Says...I Say, AMEN!
When God Says …
“He that loveth me not keepeth not my sayings: and the word which ye hear is not mine, but the Father's which sent me.” (John 14:24 KJV).
This passage brings a subtle reminder with a very serious warning. Those who do not love God in the person of Christ Jesus who came in the flesh for us to see, do not really keep His Words. He further revealed plainly that keeping His Words and/or commands is by believing in Him (John 6:29). Yes, it is by believing that the Holy Spirit comes and lives in us to lead and guide us (Romans 8:9). The Holy Spirit tenderly leads us to surrender totally and depend on His grace, giving Him the sovereignty of our lives. Then, we can give Him our consent to love us, like the lost sheep in the Lord's parable in Luke 15:3-7.
We must realize the truth: only God can work in us to love. We must let Him love us first! God is love (1 John 4:8). It is not by our self effort to work it out. It is by resting in His grace and let the Spirit bear the fruit of love from within us (Galatians 5:22).
He warned us that the Words He speaks are not His. These are from the Father who sent Him. Not believing His Words has eternal ramification for us. These must always be rooted in our hearts. As His redeemed - born again by believing, we are called children of The Most High God - The Father. The Scriptures warned, as it is written: “Whoever believes in him is not condemned, but whoever does not believe is condemned already, because he has not believed in the name of the only Son of God.” (John 3:18 ESV).
And I say, AMEN!
Daily reflections by:
F. A. Frias
PFC Ministries
When God says... I say, AMEN! is a provocative reflection of the Lord's holy Word. It intends to challenge every seeker of truth to dig deep into the core of the Word of Life to point every being to Christ Jesus - the author and finisher of our faith, and to draw revelations for change, for nourishment and for strength of every soul.
Partners For Christ Ministries, INC
P. O. Box 773716
Ocala, FL 34477
Touching lives in Cambodia, The Philippines, The Middle East, The USA, and... other countries.
“He that loveth me not keepeth not my sayings: and the word which ye hear is not mine, but the Father's which sent me.” (John 14:24 KJV).
This passage brings a subtle reminder with a very serious warning. Those who do not love God in the person of Christ Jesus who came in the flesh for us to see, do not really keep His Words. He further revealed plainly that keeping His Words and/or commands is by believing in Him (John 6:29). Yes, it is by believing that the Holy Spirit comes and lives in us to lead and guide us (Romans 8:9). The Holy Spirit tenderly leads us to surrender totally and depend on His grace, giving Him the sovereignty of our lives. Then, we can give Him our consent to love us, like the lost sheep in the Lord's parable in Luke 15:3-7.
We must realize the truth: only God can work in us to love. We must let Him love us first! God is love (1 John 4:8). It is not by our self effort to work it out. It is by resting in His grace and let the Spirit bear the fruit of love from within us (Galatians 5:22).
He warned us that the Words He speaks are not His. These are from the Father who sent Him. Not believing His Words has eternal ramification for us. These must always be rooted in our hearts. As His redeemed - born again by believing, we are called children of The Most High God - The Father. The Scriptures warned, as it is written: “Whoever believes in him is not condemned, but whoever does not believe is condemned already, because he has not believed in the name of the only Son of God.” (John 3:18 ESV).
And I say, AMEN!
Daily reflections by:
F. A. Frias
PFC Ministries
When God says... I say, AMEN! is a provocative reflection of the Lord's holy Word. It intends to challenge every seeker of truth to dig deep into the core of the Word of Life to point every being to Christ Jesus - the author and finisher of our faith, and to draw revelations for change, for nourishment and for strength of every soul.
Partners For Christ Ministries, INC
P. O. Box 773716
Ocala, FL 34477
Touching lives in Cambodia, The Philippines, The Middle East, The USA, and... other countries.
Wednesday, November 20, 2024
The Gospel of John 14:23 When God Says...I Say, AMEN!
When God Says …
“Jesus answered and said unto him, If a man love me, he will keep my words: and my Father will love him, and we will come unto him, and make our abode with him.” (John 14:23 KJV).
In answer to Judas' question: “....“Master, why is it that you are about to make yourself plain to us but not to the world?””(John 14:22b MSG), the Lord Jesus gave him a highlight of the essential link of loving Him and keeping His Words. Obeying His commands is the very important work we need to do. And, in the Lord's response to the religious crowd who asked Him "what work God requires?" “Jesus answered, “The work of God is this: to believe in the one he has sent.”” (John 6:29 NIV). To believe is what's expected of us! Definitely, not by our work of trying hard in self-effort! It is by grace! (Romans 11:6).
The moment we believe and consent ourselves to be loved by Him, through His grace we enter into the realm of His love. Not our love. No one can love God unless we first recognize that He loved us. Apostle John, the only disciple that profess of the Lord's love for him (John 13:23; 19:26; 20:2; 21:7&20), reminds us of this: “In this is love, not that we have loved God but that he loved us and sent his Son to be the propitiation for our sins. Beloved, if God so loved us, we also ought to love one another. No one has ever seen God; if we love one another, God abides in us and his love is perfected in us. By this we know that we abide in him and he in us, because he has given us of his Spirit.” (1 John 4:10-13 ESV).
And I say, AMEN!
Daily reflections by:
F. A. Frias
PFC Ministries
When God says... I say, AMEN! is a provocative reflection of the Lord's holy Word. It intends to challenge every seeker of truth to dig deep into the core of the Word of Life to point every being to Christ Jesus - the author and finisher of our faith, and to draw revelations for change, for nourishment and for strength of every soul.
Partners For Christ Ministries, INC
P. O. Box 773716
Ocala, FL 34477
Touching lives in Cambodia, The Philippines, The Middle East, The USA, and... other countries.
“Jesus answered and said unto him, If a man love me, he will keep my words: and my Father will love him, and we will come unto him, and make our abode with him.” (John 14:23 KJV).
In answer to Judas' question: “....“Master, why is it that you are about to make yourself plain to us but not to the world?””(John 14:22b MSG), the Lord Jesus gave him a highlight of the essential link of loving Him and keeping His Words. Obeying His commands is the very important work we need to do. And, in the Lord's response to the religious crowd who asked Him "what work God requires?" “Jesus answered, “The work of God is this: to believe in the one he has sent.”” (John 6:29 NIV). To believe is what's expected of us! Definitely, not by our work of trying hard in self-effort! It is by grace! (Romans 11:6).
The moment we believe and consent ourselves to be loved by Him, through His grace we enter into the realm of His love. Not our love. No one can love God unless we first recognize that He loved us. Apostle John, the only disciple that profess of the Lord's love for him (John 13:23; 19:26; 20:2; 21:7&20), reminds us of this: “In this is love, not that we have loved God but that he loved us and sent his Son to be the propitiation for our sins. Beloved, if God so loved us, we also ought to love one another. No one has ever seen God; if we love one another, God abides in us and his love is perfected in us. By this we know that we abide in him and he in us, because he has given us of his Spirit.” (1 John 4:10-13 ESV).
And I say, AMEN!
Daily reflections by:
F. A. Frias
PFC Ministries
When God says... I say, AMEN! is a provocative reflection of the Lord's holy Word. It intends to challenge every seeker of truth to dig deep into the core of the Word of Life to point every being to Christ Jesus - the author and finisher of our faith, and to draw revelations for change, for nourishment and for strength of every soul.
Partners For Christ Ministries, INC
P. O. Box 773716
Ocala, FL 34477
Touching lives in Cambodia, The Philippines, The Middle East, The USA, and... other countries.
Tuesday, November 19, 2024
The Gospel of John 14:22 When God Says...I Say, AMEN!
When God Says …
“Judas saith unto him, not Iscariot, Lord, how is it that thou wilt manifest thyself unto us, and not unto the world?” (John 14:22 KJV).
In this chapter of Apostle John's gospel account we witnessed quite a lot of confusion amongst the disciples. It's, therefore, for this reason that the Lord Jesus early on assured them with caution not to “Let not your heart be troubled: ye believe in God, believe also in me.” (John 14:1 KJV). We can see in hindsight what caused the confusion. But in their vantage view, right in the midst of what's going on real time in their state of mind, it is understandable. Apostle Judas, whose name means thanksgiving or praise in Hebrew (unfortunately now had been tainted by the treachery of Judas Iscariot), manifest his bewilderment to the Lord with a question, why? That, considering the Lord Jesus has often declared to them and to the crowd who were tailing Him that only those who believe shall see Him, as who He is. The miracles and signs He displayed before everyone is the Lord Jesus Christ manifest to the world!
The origin of the name Judas is a Hebrew rendering of the name Judah the tribe of Israel from whom the human genealogy of Lord Jesus came through by the ancestry of Joseph and Mary. And, it is amazing that the traitor would also be a man whose name means praised. Apostle Judas or Jude is asking the Lord, why? The answer to this question, he already is supposed to know. As for him and to all of us now who know, recognize and see the Lord Jesus Christ that the world do not, the answer is our belief in Him. Believing is the key to see! This, the Lord declared to Martha: “Jesus said to her, “Did I not tell you that if you believed you would see the glory of God?”” (John 11:40 ESV).
And I say, AMEN!
Daily reflections by:
F. A. Frias
PFC Ministries
When God says... I say, AMEN! is a provocative reflection of the Lord's holy Word. It intends to challenge every seeker of truth to dig deep into the core of the Word of Life to point every being to Christ Jesus - the author and finisher of our faith, and to draw revelations for change, for nourishment and for strength of every soul.
Partners For Christ Ministries, INC
P. O. Box 773716
Ocala, FL 34477
Touching lives in Cambodia, The Philippines, The Middle East, The USA, and... other countries.
“Judas saith unto him, not Iscariot, Lord, how is it that thou wilt manifest thyself unto us, and not unto the world?” (John 14:22 KJV).
In this chapter of Apostle John's gospel account we witnessed quite a lot of confusion amongst the disciples. It's, therefore, for this reason that the Lord Jesus early on assured them with caution not to “Let not your heart be troubled: ye believe in God, believe also in me.” (John 14:1 KJV). We can see in hindsight what caused the confusion. But in their vantage view, right in the midst of what's going on real time in their state of mind, it is understandable. Apostle Judas, whose name means thanksgiving or praise in Hebrew (unfortunately now had been tainted by the treachery of Judas Iscariot), manifest his bewilderment to the Lord with a question, why? That, considering the Lord Jesus has often declared to them and to the crowd who were tailing Him that only those who believe shall see Him, as who He is. The miracles and signs He displayed before everyone is the Lord Jesus Christ manifest to the world!
The origin of the name Judas is a Hebrew rendering of the name Judah the tribe of Israel from whom the human genealogy of Lord Jesus came through by the ancestry of Joseph and Mary. And, it is amazing that the traitor would also be a man whose name means praised. Apostle Judas or Jude is asking the Lord, why? The answer to this question, he already is supposed to know. As for him and to all of us now who know, recognize and see the Lord Jesus Christ that the world do not, the answer is our belief in Him. Believing is the key to see! This, the Lord declared to Martha: “Jesus said to her, “Did I not tell you that if you believed you would see the glory of God?”” (John 11:40 ESV).
And I say, AMEN!
Daily reflections by:
F. A. Frias
PFC Ministries
When God says... I say, AMEN! is a provocative reflection of the Lord's holy Word. It intends to challenge every seeker of truth to dig deep into the core of the Word of Life to point every being to Christ Jesus - the author and finisher of our faith, and to draw revelations for change, for nourishment and for strength of every soul.
Partners For Christ Ministries, INC
P. O. Box 773716
Ocala, FL 34477
Touching lives in Cambodia, The Philippines, The Middle East, The USA, and... other countries.
Monday, November 18, 2024
The Gospel of John 14:21 When God Says...I Say, AMEN!
When God Says …
“He that hath my commandments, and keepeth them, he it is that loveth me: and he that loveth me shall be loved of my Father, and I will love him, and will manifest myself to him.” (John 14:21 KJV).
The "manifestation," as it applies to one who truly believes and rests in the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, is seen through a spectrum in the light of His love. It is all about His love!
Apostle John in his epistle puts it very profoundly. It is written: “In this the love of God was made manifest among us, that God sent his only Son into the world, so that we might live through him. In this is love, not that we have loved God but that he loved us and sent his Son to be the propitiation for our sins. Beloved, if God so loved us, we also ought to love one another. No one has ever seen God; if we love one another, God abides in us and his love is perfected in us.
By this we know that we abide in him and he in us, because he has given us of his Spirit. And we have seen and testify that the Father has sent his Son to be the Savior of the world. Whoever confesses that Jesus is the Son of God, God abides in him, and he in God. So we have come to know and to believe the love that God has for us. God is love, and whoever abides in love abides in God, and God abides in him. By this is love perfected with us, so that we may have confidence for the day of judgment, because as he is so also are we in this world.” (1 John 4:9-17 ESV).
And I say, AMEN!
Daily reflections by:
F. A. Frias
PFC Ministries
When God says... I say, AMEN! is a provocative reflection of the Lord's holy Word. It intends to challenge every seeker of truth to dig deep into the core of the Word of Life to point every being to Christ Jesus - the author and finisher of our faith, and to draw revelations for change, for nourishment and for strength of every soul.
Partners For Christ Ministries, INC
P. O. Box 773716
Ocala, FL 34477
Touching lives in Cambodia, The Philippines, The Middle East, The USA, and... other countries.
“He that hath my commandments, and keepeth them, he it is that loveth me: and he that loveth me shall be loved of my Father, and I will love him, and will manifest myself to him.” (John 14:21 KJV).
The "manifestation," as it applies to one who truly believes and rests in the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, is seen through a spectrum in the light of His love. It is all about His love!
Apostle John in his epistle puts it very profoundly. It is written: “In this the love of God was made manifest among us, that God sent his only Son into the world, so that we might live through him. In this is love, not that we have loved God but that he loved us and sent his Son to be the propitiation for our sins. Beloved, if God so loved us, we also ought to love one another. No one has ever seen God; if we love one another, God abides in us and his love is perfected in us.
By this we know that we abide in him and he in us, because he has given us of his Spirit. And we have seen and testify that the Father has sent his Son to be the Savior of the world. Whoever confesses that Jesus is the Son of God, God abides in him, and he in God. So we have come to know and to believe the love that God has for us. God is love, and whoever abides in love abides in God, and God abides in him. By this is love perfected with us, so that we may have confidence for the day of judgment, because as he is so also are we in this world.” (1 John 4:9-17 ESV).
And I say, AMEN!
Daily reflections by:
F. A. Frias
PFC Ministries
When God says... I say, AMEN! is a provocative reflection of the Lord's holy Word. It intends to challenge every seeker of truth to dig deep into the core of the Word of Life to point every being to Christ Jesus - the author and finisher of our faith, and to draw revelations for change, for nourishment and for strength of every soul.
Partners For Christ Ministries, INC
P. O. Box 773716
Ocala, FL 34477
Touching lives in Cambodia, The Philippines, The Middle East, The USA, and... other countries.
Sunday, November 17, 2024
The Gospel of John 14:18-20 When God Says...I Say, AMEN!
When God Says …
“I will not leave you comfortless: I will come to you. Yet a little while, and the world seeth me no more; but ye see me: because I live, ye shall live also. At that day ye shall know that I am in my Father, and ye in me, and I in you.” (John 14:18-20 KJV)
These passages point us to the Lord's resurrection from the grave at which time we will know our heavenly position in Him. Yes, He left for a little while to die for us. But, He came fort for us to be in us and we in Him. We’re now living in “that day” that He spoke of. In short, we’re now in our heavenly place. We’re now seated with Him by grace through faith in Him (Ephesians 2:6).
Being in the know that the Lord Jesus Christ is in the presence of Father, seated at His right hand (Romans 8:34), we are therefore seated with Him in the throne room of the majesty in heaven where he is. We’re sitting in the presence of our Almighty Father. We may not feel like we are, being still in the flesh. But, we must recognize that all things physical that we feel and see came from the spirit realm. The physical is temporary. It flashes swiftly like a vapor (James 4:14). The true reality is in the spirit that lives forever with God (Ecclesiastes 12:7). Being born again by faith in Christ Jesus, scriptures assure, and "We are confident, I say, and would prefer to be away from the body and at home with the Lord." (2 Corinthians 5:8).
Yes, as Children of God, born again by faith, our position with our Lord Jesus Christ and our Heavenly Father is more real than anything we can see and touch. When He says we are in Him and He in us, we must believe, as it is written: “But God, being rich in mercy, because of the great love with which he loved us, even when we were dead in our trespasses, made us alive together with Christ—by grace you have been saved— and raised us up with him and seated us with him in the heavenly places in Christ Jesus, so that in the coming ages he might show the immeasurable riches of his grace in kindness toward us in Christ Jesus.” (Ephesians 2:4-7 ESV).
And I say, AMEN!
Daily reflections by:
F. A. Frias
PFC Ministries
When God says... I say, AMEN! is a provocative reflection of the Lord's holy Word. It intends to challenge every seeker of truth to dig deep into the core of the Word of Life to point every being to Christ Jesus - the author and finisher of our faith, and to draw revelations for change, for nourishment and for strength of every soul.
Partners For Christ Ministries, INC
P. O. Box 773716
Ocala, FL 34477
Touching lives in Cambodia, The Philippines, The Middle East, The USA, and... other countries.
“I will not leave you comfortless: I will come to you. Yet a little while, and the world seeth me no more; but ye see me: because I live, ye shall live also. At that day ye shall know that I am in my Father, and ye in me, and I in you.” (John 14:18-20 KJV)
These passages point us to the Lord's resurrection from the grave at which time we will know our heavenly position in Him. Yes, He left for a little while to die for us. But, He came fort for us to be in us and we in Him. We’re now living in “that day” that He spoke of. In short, we’re now in our heavenly place. We’re now seated with Him by grace through faith in Him (Ephesians 2:6).
Being in the know that the Lord Jesus Christ is in the presence of Father, seated at His right hand (Romans 8:34), we are therefore seated with Him in the throne room of the majesty in heaven where he is. We’re sitting in the presence of our Almighty Father. We may not feel like we are, being still in the flesh. But, we must recognize that all things physical that we feel and see came from the spirit realm. The physical is temporary. It flashes swiftly like a vapor (James 4:14). The true reality is in the spirit that lives forever with God (Ecclesiastes 12:7). Being born again by faith in Christ Jesus, scriptures assure, and "We are confident, I say, and would prefer to be away from the body and at home with the Lord." (2 Corinthians 5:8).
Yes, as Children of God, born again by faith, our position with our Lord Jesus Christ and our Heavenly Father is more real than anything we can see and touch. When He says we are in Him and He in us, we must believe, as it is written: “But God, being rich in mercy, because of the great love with which he loved us, even when we were dead in our trespasses, made us alive together with Christ—by grace you have been saved— and raised us up with him and seated us with him in the heavenly places in Christ Jesus, so that in the coming ages he might show the immeasurable riches of his grace in kindness toward us in Christ Jesus.” (Ephesians 2:4-7 ESV).
And I say, AMEN!
Daily reflections by:
F. A. Frias
PFC Ministries
When God says... I say, AMEN! is a provocative reflection of the Lord's holy Word. It intends to challenge every seeker of truth to dig deep into the core of the Word of Life to point every being to Christ Jesus - the author and finisher of our faith, and to draw revelations for change, for nourishment and for strength of every soul.
Partners For Christ Ministries, INC
P. O. Box 773716
Ocala, FL 34477
Touching lives in Cambodia, The Philippines, The Middle East, The USA, and... other countries.
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