TELECAST SERMON FOR SEPTEMBER 23, 2018 "FAITHFUL AND TRUE, ARE WE" ASSOCIATE PASTOR MELVIN HONDA Thank you Edwin! It is God's desire that all people come unto Him in full repentance, and receive His salvation, full and free. Those who respond and obey His command will be blessed bountifully: Spiritually, materially and physically, and even financially. The soul who rejects and rises up against the Lord, shall be "devoured by the sword," and there shall be no remedy for his tragic end. Do we dare provoke the Lord to jealousy? Do we dare contend our strength is greater than His? God forbid! He has the power to save, the power to devastate, the power to heal, the power to curse, the power to overcome, and the power to bless. I invite you to partake in today's message, entitled, "FAITHFUL AND TRUE, ARE WE," and I pray that by the time it concludes, you will be encouraged to seek the Lord, Whose powers are limitless and can sustain you in every way. Although God s true church is blessed with revelations that manifest the love of Jesus Christ, His longsuffering, and His plan of salvation for the entire world, we can never know completely what is in the mind of Christ. However, prayer and fasting are proven paths given by the Lord Jesus Christ to communicate with Him, and to stay within the Will of God for all mankind upon this earth. Therefore, we are then inspired to preach and teach the Gospel of Jesus Christ, and prepare all believers for His second coming. The next greatest event to occur upon this earth will be Jesus Christ, Himself, returning in clouds of glory. We believe with all our hearts that Jesus Christ is coming soon. That is why we frequently ask and remind you, dear television viewers, Are you ready to meet Jesus Christ if He were to come within the next minute, hour, or day? The Body of Christ must maintain the sincerity, and sense of urgency which is the hope of the church, to meet Jesus Christ in the air at His soon coming. Let us then begin to review and answer the question, Will you be assured a place in the Kingdom of God? If we keep ourselves in God s Presence, along with His believers who are faithful and true, then we will be found worthy to enter into the Kingdom of God. There is only one true faith, one true Holy Spirit, one true love, and one true and faithful Saint of God, who will gain entry into the Kingdom of God. Therefore, we must be counted amongst the faithful and true, who have proven themselves worthy to rule and reign with Jesus Christ in heaven above. 1
Today, we have the Name of Jesus Christ, the Blood of Jesus Christ, and the Words of Jesus Christ to help us live a life above sin. And it is a true fact that His Name, and His Blood has never lost its power to save, heal, and to deliver us from sin. God s Word is ever present with us in our daily lives. And we must continually read and meditate on it, and do what His Word says for us to do as we go about our daily task of living for Jesus Christ. Then too, God s Word becomes alive in us through the Presence of God s Holy Spirit that abides in our hearts. During these last days that we live in, we as His believers must practice and employ our confidence in God s Word to strengthen us, and keep us in the hollow of His Hand. John 20:30-31 provides this summary of the ministry of Jesus Christ, And many other signs truly did Jesus in the presence of his disciples, which are not written in this book: But these are written, that ye might believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God; and that believing ye might have life through his name. Reading on in John 21:25 we find, And there are also many other things which Jesus did, the which, if they should be written every one, I suppose that even the world itself could not contain the books that should be written. The thirty nine books of the Old Testament, and twenty seven books of the New Testament that comprise God s Word, The Holy Bible, document just enough of the actual works of Jesus Christ to give us an example to follow. It is given for our learning to promote the salvation of our souls, and encourage Spiritual growth within every man, every woman, and every child. Being faithful and true must not be restricted to a limited number of miracles performed by Jesus Christ. During the three and a half years of His ministry upon this earth, Jesus Christ provided sufficient proof for every man, woman, and child to believe, accept, and follow Him. He paid the price of sin for the entire human race, and then rose from the dead on the third day to prove that He had power over death, hell and the grave. Since then, over two thousand years have passed, and still today His ministry rings faithful and true to those who will accept Him. With the passing of time, many people upon this earth still have not yet accepted Jesus Christ as their personal Savior and Lord. Therefore, Jeremiah cautions all mankind saying, The harvest is past, the summer is ended, and we are not saved. The concern we must have is for the personal salvation of our soul, to gain the promise of eternal life with Jesus Christ is heaven above. 2
Mark 1:14-15 relates, Now after that John was put in prison, Jesus came into Galilee, preaching the gospel of the kingdom of God, And saying, The time is fulfilled, and the kingdom of God is at hand: repent ye, and believe the gospel. In the city of Jerusalem, Nicodemus was one of them that observed the ministry of Jesus Christ from a distance. And eventually, he became courageous enough to approach Jesus Christ and personally speak with Him. The question today is Do you have the courage to also come and speak with Jesus Christ today? Nicodemus sought out Jesus to confirm his inward feelings. As a Pharisee, he was very careful to not be observed by his peers, in talking to Jesus Christ. This covert manner, indeed, required much courage on his part. However, the conviction upon his heart was convincing enough to confirm to him that Jesus Christ is truly sent from God. There is no doubt that the miracles of Jesus Christ left him, and everyone else, awestricken. John 3:1-4 permits us to listen in on their conversation, There was a man of the Pharisees, named Nicodemus, a ruler of the Jews: The same came to Jesus by night, and said unto him, Rabbi, we know that thou art a teacher come from God: for no man can do these miracles that thou doest, except God be with him. Jesus answered and said unto him, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God. Nicodemus became spiritually motivated by the miracles, and personally acknowledged these miracles as being works of God, Himself. Jesus Christ saw a greater need within the heart of all mankind that surpassed the miracles. His life, and His Word overcame the many false doctrines that has plagued mankind for centuries. His Godly mission was to resolve and reprove the sin committed by Adam and Eve in the very beginning. John 3:4, highlights the commandment given by Jesus Christ to Nicodemus and all mankind, Nicodemus saith unto him, How can a man be born again when he is old? Can he enter the second time into his mother s womb, and be born?" And in John 3:5, it reads, "Jesus answered, Verily, verily I say unto thee, Except a man be born of water and of the Spirit, he cannot enter into the kingdom of God. John 3:6-7 confirm the fact that we must be born again, That which is born of the flesh is flesh; and that which is born of the Spirit is spirit. Marvel not that I said unto thee, Ye must be born again. God s Spiritual truths are incomprehensible without the presence of God s Holy Spirit. Nicodemus responded to the commandment of Jesus Christ, and we too likewise should take note and respond as well. 3
Jesus Christ enlightened Nicodemus to water baptism in His name, Jesus Christ. And water baptism in the name of Jesus Christ is still applicable to every man, woman, and child today, just as it was on the day when Jesus Christ, Himself, was baptized in the river Jordan. Our own self righteousness falls short of the true meaning of salvation and being born again enables us to see what Jesus Christ wants us to see, and to gain a greater understanding of the mystery of Godliness. Today, the message given by Jesus Christ should compel everyone to obey God s commandments by being born again. Why not complete this action, and perform God s plan of salvation so that we will gain remission and freedom from our sins. Most people refer to sin as an act of unrighteousness. However, sin is inherent to mankind, and therefore, all have sinned, both Jew and Gentile, and all have come short of the glory of God. On the day of Pentecost, Peter being filled with the Holy Ghost boldly proclaimed the Gospel of the Kingdom of God. Let us listen in to Acts 2:36-37, Therefore let all the house of Israel know assuredly, that God hath made that same Jesus, whom ye have crucified, both Lord and Christ. Now when they heard this, they were pricked in their heart, and said unto Peter and to the rest of the apostles, Men and brethren, what shall we do? And in Acts 2:38, it reads, "Then Peter said unto them, Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost. The circumstances in Jerusalem at the feast of Pentecost were extraordinary. On this designated day, the 120 disciples were filled with the Holy Ghost in the upper room, and God s true Church was formed by His Holy Spirit. Those present in Jerusalem heard the 120 disciples speak in God s unknown tongue, which translated into the various native tongues of the people, declaring God s Holy Word. This phenomenal event precluded Peter s revelation, and use of the keys, to the Kingdom of God. Peter spoke boldly amidst the adversity and ridicule, being filled with God s Holy Spirit, and with the Power of God. Baptism is defined in I Peter 3:21, The like figure whereunto even baptism doth also now save us (not the putting away of the filth of the flesh, but the answer of a good conscience toward God,) by the resurrection of Jesus Christ. Water baptism resembles the death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. Through the act of water baptism we are resurrected to live a new life in the righteousness of God. 4
Water baptism is performed correctly when an applicant is baptized in water, in the name of Jesus Christ. If we do it any other way, we then deny the Deity, and commandment of Jesus Christ. During that time, the Pharisees and Sadducees persecuted Jesus Christ, and even took an adversarial position against Him as written in Luke 7:30, But the Pharisees and lawyers rejected the counsel of God against themselves, being not baptized of him. Therefore, if we have not been baptized by immersion in water, in the name of Jesus Christ, we need to be re-baptized, or born again in the name of Jesus Christ to fulfill the salvation of our souls. This is confirmed in Acts 4:12, Neither is there salvation in any other: for there is none other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved. We are saved by the grace of God. Thinking that we can be saved in any other way is an erroneous assumption. Hence, instead of being saved, we will be condemned to everlasting separation from God because we have rejected the Gospel of the Kingdom of God. Mark 16:15-18 highlights this Spiritual commandment, And he said unto them, Go ye into all the world, and preach the Gospel to every creature. He that believeth and is baptized shall be saved; and he that believeth not shall be damned. And these signs shall follow him that believe; In my name shall they cast out devils; they shall speak with new tongues; They shall take up serpents; and if they drink any deadly thing, it shall not hurt them; they shall lay hands on the sick, and they shall recover. Today s challenge is to believe, and accept Jesus Christ as our personal Savior, Master and Lord. Spiritual belief in the Lord Jesus Christ must be a priority over the technology, and science that is all around us today. Time is priceless, and people are being consumed with everyday affairs. The mindset of mankind is influenced to think globally in an attempt to keep in step with the world s pace. However, the true test for everyone today is to keep in step with the Lord Jesus Christ. Doing so, we will take the opportunity to become a part of the Bride of Christ when Jesus Christ returns to this earth to catch up His waiting Bride saying, Come Up Hither, Come Up Hither, Come Up Hither. Jesus Christ expects mankind to believe, the unbelievable, and He will confirm it with signs following. This was confirmed on the morning of the resurrection of Jesus Christ in Mark 16:1-4, And when the Sabbath was past, Mary Magdalene, and Mary the mother of James, and Salome, had brought sweet spices, that they might come and anoint him. And very early in the morning the first day of the week, they came unto the sepulchre at the rising of the sun. And they said among themselves, Who shall roll us away the stone 5
from the door of the sepulchre? And when they looked, they saw that the stone was rolled away: for it was very great. What happened here shows us that even believers can be bewildered and overwhelmed by the circumstances they witness. As the three women approached the tomb, they did not expect the unexpected. They did not anticipate seeing the massive stone removed from the tomb s entrance, and they did not anticipate speaking with the Angel of God. When we rely on our own understanding in lieu of putting our whole faith in God, dear television viewers, we limit the Power and Presence of Jesus Christ to make Himself, real unto us. Revelation 19:11-13 reads, And I saw heaven opened, and behold a white horse; and he that sat upon him was called Faithful and True, and in righteousness he doth judge and make war. His eyes were as a flame of fire, and on his head were many crowns; and he had a name written, that no man knew, but he himself. And he was clothed with a vesture dipped in blood: and his name is called The Word of God. This complete description of Jesus Christ portrays His Presence when He returns to cleanse the earth of unbelief. Jesus Christ continues to confirm Himself through His Holy Spirit to all believers who are worthily waiting to enter into the Kingdom of God. We also see evidence of God s Holy Spirit that will be present to judge the people of this world. The Lord s true and righteous judgment will be administered upon an unbelieving world. On the other hand, when God s Holy Spirit rests upon His Believers, we will see wonderful things never seen before, to confirm the righteousness of God upon those who are faithful and true. Revelation 21:5 also adds, And he that sat upon the throne said, Behold, I make all things new. And he said unto me, Write: for these words are true and faithful. The perfect Presence of God s Holy Spirit continues to daily lead and guide His Church, the Body of Christ, in the perfect will of God. Jesus Christ is seen wearing garments stained with blood, and in His hands are the souls of every man, woman, and child born upon this earth. Jesus Christ is no respecter of person, and He will assess the lives of everyone when He returns to earth as the Supreme Judge. John 1:1-2, and 14 reads, In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. The same was in the beginning with God. And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us, (and we beheld his glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father,) full of grace and truth. Despite the infallible proofs of the Power and Presence of Jesus Christ, many today only think of Jesus Christ as being the Son of God, vice God, Himself. Then too, the Jews 6
themselves do not accept or acknowledge Jesus Christ as their Messiah and Lord instead, they think of Him only as a prophet similar to Elijah. Many still do not anticipate the second coming of Jesus Christ, and think there is time left, before the soon-coming return of Jesus Christ. However, we are here to warn every man, woman, and child that Jesus Christ is coming soon, and sooner than many think. The world is looking for peace, and is seeking a safer world, but God s Word warns that when they say peace and safety, then cometh sudden destruction. Hence, Jesus Christ is standing at the door. Amos 8: 11-12 also tells us, Behold, the days come, saith the Lord God, that I will send a famine in the land, not a famine of bread, nor a thirst for water, but of hearing the words of the Lord: And they shall wander from sea to sea, and from the north even to the east, they shall run to and fro to seek the word of the Lord, and shall not find it. Revelation 22:1-7 confirms today s sermon for every true and faithful believer, And he shewed me a pure river of water of life, clear as crystal, proceeding out of the throne of God and of the Lamb. In the midst of the street of it, and on either side of the river, was there the tree of life, which bare twelve manner of fruits, and yielded her fruit every month: and the leaves of the tree were for the healing of the nations. And there shall be no more curse: but the throne of God and of the Lamb shall be in it; and his servants shall serve him: And they shall see his face; and his name shall be in their foreheads. And there shall be no night there; and they need no candle, neither light of the sun; for the Lord God giveth them light: and they shall reign for ever and ever. And he said unto me, These sayings are faithful and true: and the Lord God of the holy prophets sent his angel to shew unto his servants the things which must shortly be done. Behold, I come quickly: blessed is he that keepeth the sayings of the prophecy of this book. If you would like to learn more about God s Word and the Church, and view these telecast presentations in their entirety, please visit our website at http://jesuscomingsoon.org. Until our next telecast, this is your host, Associate Pastor Melvin Honda expressing my sincerest appreciation to each of you, who have allowed us to come into your homes. May the good Lord bless and keep you all in the hollow of His hands. Entire contents of this text copyright 2018 by The Apostolic Faith Church (Jesus Coming Soon), Honolulu, Hawaii. All rights reserved. 7