Today’s selected reading continues in the New Testament gospel narrative of the life and ministry of the Lord Jesus Christ as it was written and recorded by the beloved physician Luke. More specifically today’s passage is found in verses twenty-one through fifty-two of the second chapter. “And when eight days were accomplished for the circumcising of the child, his name was called JESUS, which was so named of the angel before he was conceived in the womb” (Luke 2:21). “And when the days of her purification according to the law of Moses were accomplished, they brought him to Jerusalem, to present him to the LORD; (As it is written in the law of the Lord, Ever male that openers the womb shall be called holy to the Lord;) And to offer sacrifice according to that which is said in the law of the Lord, A pair of turtle doves, or two young pigeons” (Luke 2:22-24). “And, behold, there was a man in Jerusalem, whose name was Simeon; and the same man was just and devout, waiting for the consolation of Israel: and the Holy Ghost was upon him. And it was revealed unto him by the Holy Ghost, that he should not see death, before he had seen the Lord’s Christ. And he came by the Spirit into the temple: and when the parents brought in the child Jesus, to do for him after the custom of the law, then took he him up in his arms, and blessed God, and said, Lord, now lettest thou thy servant depart in peace, according to thy word; for mine eyes have seen thy salvation, which thou hast prepared before the face of all people; a light to lighten the Gentiles, and the glory of thy people Israel. And Joseph and his mother marveled at those things which were spoken of him. And Simeon blessed them, and said unto mary his mother, Behold, this child is set for the fall and rising again of many in Israel; and for a sign which shall be spoken against; (Yea a sword shall pierce through thy own soul also,) that the thoughts of many hearts may be revealed” (Luke 2:25-35). “And there was one Anna, a prophetess, the daughter of Phanual, of the tribe of Asher: she was of a great age, and had lived with an husband seven years from her virginity; and she was a widow of about fourscore and fore years, which departed not from the temple, but served God with fastings sand prayers night and day. And she coming in that instant gave thanks likewise unto the Lord, and spake of him to all them that looked for redemption in Jerusalem. And when they had performed all things according to the law of the Lord, they returned into Galilee, to their own city Nazareth. And the child grew, and waxed strong in spirit, filled with wisdom: and the grace of God was upon him” (Luke 2:36-40). “Now his parents went to Jerusalem every year the feast of the Passover. And when he was twelve years old, they went up to Jerusalem after the custom of the feast. And when they had fulfilled the days, as they returned, the child Jesus tarried behind in Jerusalem; and Joseph and his mother knew not of it. But they, supposing him to have been in the company, went a day’s journey; and they sought him among their kinsfolk, and acquaintance. And when they found him not, they turned back again to Jerusalem, seeking him. And it came to pass, that after three days they found him in the temple, sitting in the midst of the doctors, both hearing them, and asking them questions. And all that heard him were astonished at his understand and answers. And when they saw him, they were amazed: and his mother said unto him, Son, why hast thou thus dealt with us? Behold, thy father and I have sought thee sorrowing. And he said unto them, How is it that ye sought me? Wist ye not that I must be about my Father’s business? And they understood not the saying which he spake unto them. And he went down with them, and came to Nazareth, and was subject unto them: but his mother kept all these sayings in her heart. And Jesus increased in wisdom and stature, and in favour with God and man” (Luke 1:41-52). When you come to this particular portion of Scripture you will find one of the loudest and most profound statements in all of the New Testament. If you begin reading the words which are found in the twenty-first verse of the second chapter of this gospel you will find one of the greatest statements in all of Scripture. It is in this particular verse where we find Mary and Joseph giving the child who was born unto them His name. What makes this so incredibly significant is that the name they gave the child would be the name that was ordained and appointed by the angel Gabriel before the child was even conceived within the womb. The words and language found in the New Testament gospel narratives written by the apostle Matthew and Luke are incredibly significant for they call and draw our attention to the actual name of the Messiah and Christ who would be born into the world. Pause for a moment and consider the fact that for generations and centuries leading up to this particular point there would be the expectation and anticipation of the Messiah which would be born unto them. It would be the prophet Isaiah who would prophesy and emphatically declare how the Messiah would indeed be born of a virgin—and not only born of a virgin but also would be a Son who was born unto us. I am absolutely convinced there is a great need for us to recognize the words which are found in the seventh and ninth chapters of the Old Testament prophetic book of Isaiah for it is within this book we find two of the greatest prophecies concerning the Messiah—and not only the Messiah but also how the Messiah would be born of a virgin and born unto us. There is not a doubt in my mind that when we think about and consider the words which are found in these chapters within the prophetic book of Isaiah we are brought face to face with a fraction and portion of the Messianic hope and expectation that was present within the hearts and minds of the Jews throughout the generations. From the time of Abraham until the days in which the angel Gabriel appeared unto Zacharias in the Jewish Temple and unto Mary who was espoused to be married to Joseph there was an incredible Messianic expectation that was present within the hearts and souls of those who would live in the area of Judaea and Galilee. Throughout the centuries and generations there would indeed be a wonderful and powerful expectation that would be given through the Law, through the prophets and even through the Psalms concerning the coming of the Messiah. Even Jesus Himself would acknowledge this when walking with the two men who departed from Jerusalem and were headed to the village of Emmaus after He had been raised from death to life on the third day. (As a side note it’s incredibly interesting to consider the fact that these two men departed from the city of Jerusalem—not only after the Lord Jesus had been put to death but also after some of their own made them astonished with a report that He had been raised from death to life. These two men would depart from the city of Jerusalem even after hearing and receiving a report from the women who had arrived at the tomb and not only saw the stone rolled away, not only saw the angel, and not only heard the voice of the angel speak unto them but also see and behold the Lord Jesus after He had been raised from death to life). There is something we must needs recognize and understand when considering the words found in the final chapter of the New Testament gospel narrative written by Luke for it calls and draws our attention to the incredible truth that the Law, the prophets and even the Psalms spoke of the Messiah and helped set the Messianic expectation and anticipation which was present within the hearts and minds of the Jews throughout the generations. I sit here today thinking about and considering the words which are found in the Old Testament prophetic book of Isaiah and I can’t help but think about the fact that it is through these two passages we catch a glimpse of the reality that the Messiah would indeed be one who was born into the earth. Within these passages we are brought face to face with the powerful truth that the Messiah which had been long awaited for centuries and generations would indeed be born unto them and born of a virgin. What’s more is that it’s when you consider the words which the Old Testament prophet Micah prophesied concerning the location of the Messiah’s birth you get an even greater sense of that which was understood concerning the Messiah. Oh there is something we must needs recognize and understand when reading these passages of Scripture for they call and invite us into the place where we come face to face with the knowledge of the Messiah as being one who would not only be born in Bethlehem but also one who would be born of a virgin. This is something I am absolutely convinced must be understood for when you consider the New Testament gospel narratives written by Luke and Matthew you will find the fulfillment of these prophetic words which were spoken by the ancient Hebrew prophets. Oh we dare not and must not miss and lose sight of this for it calls and draws our attention to the incredible reality of the Messiah who would indeed be born unto and among men that He might fulfill that which was prophesied and spoken concerning Him. It is with this in mind I invite you to consider the following words which are found in each of these passages of Scripture beginning with the seventh chapter of the Old Testament prophetic book of Isaiah: “Therefore the Lord himself shall give you a sign; Behold, a virgin shall conceive, and bear a son, and shall call his name Immanuel. Butter and honey shall he eat, that he may know to refuse the evil, and choose the good. For before the child shall know to refuse the evil, and choose the good, the land that thou abhorrest shall be forsaken of both her kings” (Isaiah 7:14-16). “For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counseller, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace. Of the increase of his government and peace there shall be no end. Upon the throne of David, and upon his kingdom, to order it, and to establish it with judgment and with justice from henceforth even for ever. The zeal of the Lord of hosts will perform this” (Isaiah 9:6-7). “Now gather thyself in troops, O daughter of troops: He hath laid siege against us: They shall smite the judge of Israel with a rod upon the cheek. But thou, Beth-lehem Ephratah, though thou be little among the thousands of Judah, yet out of thee shall he come forth unto me that is to be r ulcer in Israel; whose goings forth have been from old, from everlasting” (Micah 5:1-2). Oh it is absolutely necessary to call and draw our attention to the incredible truth that is found within these three passages of Scripture for within them we are brought face to face with the incredible truth concerning the coming of the Messiah. It is within these passages of Scripture we encounter and are brought face to face with the tremendous reality of the Messiah as being one who would be born unto and among us. Within each of these passages we are brought face to face with the truth surrounding the Messiah and how his coming would be one that would be characterized by being born as a babe in the midst of the land. It would be beginning with the seventh chapter of the prophetic book of Isaiah we encounter the tremendous truth that the LORD would give a sign—the sign of a virgin conceiving and bearing a son. This son would be born of a virgin and would carry the name Immanuel which we know would indeed mean “God with us.” It would be in the seventh chapter of the prophetic book of Isaiah we encounter and are brought face to face with the truth surrounding the birth of the Messiah and how He would be born of a virgin who would conceive and would be given the name Immanuel. This name Immanuel must not be ignored and glossed over for when you come to the ninth chapter of this same book you will again find a description of the Messiah who would indeed be born in the earth. It would be in the ninth chapter of this prophetic book you will find the prophet Isaiah once more speaking of the Messiah being born in the earth as the prophet would declare how unto us a child is born and unto us a son would be given. What is truly unique about the words found in this passage of Scripture is when you consider the fact that it’s in this passage of Scripture where we find some of the names which would be given to the Messiah—Wonderful, Counseller, The mighty God, The everlasting Father and the Prince of Peace. It is in this passage of Scripture we come face to face with the tremendous truth surrounding the coming of the Messiah and of His birth which would be brought forth in the midst of the earth. I have to admit I absolutely love the words which are found within these passages of Scripture for within them—not only do they bring us face to face with a child being born unto us, and not only do they bring us face to face with a Son being given unto us but they also bring us face to face with the fact that this child would be born unto a virgin. It would be through the prophet Isaiah we find the words of the Lord emphatically declaring unto the southern kingdom of Judah that there would indeed be One who would be born unto them—one who would indeed rule and reign. Oh if there is one thing we must needs recognize and understand when reading the words which are found in these passages of Scripture it’s that the Messiah was indeed born to rule the nations of the earth. It would be through and within these passages of Scripture we find the beautiful reality that the Messiah would indeed be born to rule the nations of the earth and that He would indeed be given and would sit upon the throne of his father David. It would be unto the Messiah the throne of his father David would be given and of the increase of his government there would be no end. What makes this truly powerful when you take the time to think about it is when you read the words which are present in the twelfth and twentieth chapters of the New Testament prophetic book of the Revelation of Jesus Christ. It is in each of these passages of Scripture we once more find the description of the Messiah and Christ being ordained and appointed to rule and reign over the nations of the earth and doing so from and upon the throne of his father David in the midst of the city of Jerusalem. With this in mind I invite you to consider the following words which are found in the New Testament prophetic book of the Revelation of Jesus Christ beginning with the twelfth chapter: “And there appeared a great wonder in heaven; a woman clothed with the sun, and the moon under her feet, and upon her head a crown of twelve stars: And she being with child cried, travailing in birth, and pained to be delivered. And there appeared another wonder in heaven; and behold a great red dragon, having seven heads and ten horns, and seven crowns upon his heads. And his tail drew the third part of the stars of heaven, and did cast them to the earth; and the dragon stood before the woman which was ready to be delivered, for to devour her child as soon as it was born. And she brought forth a man child, who was to rule all nations with a rod of ion: and her child was caught up unto God, and to this throne. And the woman fled into the wilderness, where she hath a place prepared of God, that they should feed her there a thousand two hundred and threescore days” (Revelation 12:1-6). “And there was war in heaven: Michael and his angels fought against the dragon; and the dragon fought and his angels, and prevailed not; neither was their place found any more in heaven. And the great dragon was cast out, that old serpent, called the Devil, and Satan, which deceiveth the whole world: he was cast out into the earth, and his angels were cast out with him. And I heard a loud voice saying in heaven, Now is come salvation, and strength, and the kingdom of our God, and the power of his Christ: for the accuser of our brethren is cast down, which accused them before our God day and night. And they overcame him by the blood of the Lamb, and by the word of their testimony; and they loved not their lives unto the death. Therefore rejoice, ye heavens, and ye that dwell in them. Woe to the inhabited of the earth and of the sea! For the devil is come down unto you, having great wrath, because he knoweth that he hath but a short time” (Revelation 12:7-12). “And when the dragon saw that he was cast unto the earth, he persecuted the woman which brought forth the man child. And to the woman were given two wings of a great eagle, that she might fly into the wilderness, into her place, where she is nourished for a time, and times, and half a time, from the face of the serpent. And the serpent cast out of his mouth water as a flood after the woman, that he might cause her to be carried away of the flood. And the earth helped the woman, and the earth opened her mouth, and swallowed up the flood which the dragon cast out of his mouth. And the dragon was wroth with the woman, and went to make war with the remnant of her seed, which keep the commandments of God, and have the testimony of Jesus Christ” (Revelation 12:13-17). “And after these things I heard a great voice of m inch people in heaven, saying, Alleluia; Salvation, and glory, and honour, and power, unto the Lord our God: For true and righteous are his judgments: for he hath judged the great whore, which did corrupt the earth with her fornication, and hath avenged the blood of his servants at her hand. And again they said, Alleluia. And her smoke rose up for ever and ever. And ethe four and twenty elders and the four beasts fell down and worshipped God that sat on the throne,s saying, Amen; Alleluia. And a voice came out of the throne, saying, Praise our God, all ye his servants, and ye that fear him, both small and great. And I heard as it were the voice of a great multitude, and as the voice of many waters, and as the voice of mighty thunderings, saying, Alleluia: for the Lord God omnipotent reign with. Let us be glad and rejoice,and give honour to him: for the marriage of the Lamb is come, and his wife hath made herself ready. And to her was granted that she should be arrayed in fine linen, clean and white: for the fine linen is the righteousness of saints. And he saith unto me, Write, Blessed are they which are called unto the marriage supper of the Lamb. And he saith unto me, These are the true sayings of God. And I fell at his feet to worship him. And he said unto me, See thou do it not: I am thy fellow servant, and of thy brethren that have the testimony of Jesus: worship God: for the testimony of Jesus is the spirit of prophecy” (Revelation 19:1-10). “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. And the armies which were in heaven followed him upon white horses, clothed in fine linen, white and clean. And out of his mouth goeth a sharp sword, that with it he should smite the nations: and he shall rule them with a rod of iron: and he tread with the wine press of the fierceness and wrath of Almighty God. And he hath on his vesture and on his thigh a name written, KING OF KINGS, AND LORD OF LORDS” (Revelation 19:11-16). “And I saw an angel standing in the sun; and he cried with a loud voice, saying to all the fowls that fly in the midst of heaven, Come and gather yourselves together unto the supper of the great God; that ye may eat the flesh of kings, and the flesh of captains, and the flesh of mighty men, and the flesh of horses, and of them that sit on them, and the flesh of all men, both free and bond, both small and great. And I saw the beast, and the kings of the earth, and their armies, gathered together to make war against him that sat on the horse, and against his army. And the beast was taken, and with him the false prophet that wrought miracles before him, with which he deceived them that had received the mark of the beast, and them that worshipped his image. These both were cast alive into a lake of fire burning with brimstone. And the remnant were slain with the sword of him that sat upon the horse, which sword proceeded out of his mouth: and all the fowls were filled with their flesh” (Revelation 19:17-21). “And I saw an angel come down from heaven, having the key of the bottomless pit and a great chain in his hand. And he laid hold on the dragon, that old serpent, which is the Devil, and Satan, and bound him a thousand years, and cast him into the bottomless pit, and shut him up, and set a seal upon him, that he should deceive the nations no more, till the thousand years should be fulfilled: and after that he must be loosed a little season” (Revelation 20:1-3). “And I saw thrones, and they sat upon them, and judgment was given unto them: and I saw the souls of them that were beheaded for the witness of Jesus, and for the word of God, and which had not worshipped the beast, neither his image, neither had received his mark upon their foreheads, or in their heads; and they lived and reigned with Christ a thousand years. But the rest of the dead lived not again until the thousand years were finished. This is the first resurrection: on such the second death hath no power, but they shall be priests of God, and of Christ, and shall reign with him a thousand years” (Revelation 20:4-6). “And when the thousand years are expired, Satan shall be loosed out of his prison, and shall go out to deceive the nations which are in the four quarters of the earth, Gog and Margo, to gather them together to battle: the number of whom is as the sand of the sea. And they went up on the breadth of the earth, and compassed the camp of the saints about, and the beloved city: and fire came down from God out of heaven, and devoured them. And the devil that deceived them was cast into the lake of fire and brimstone, where the beast and false prophet are, and shall be tormented day and night for ever and ever” (Revelation 20:7-10). Oh we dare not and must not miss and lose sight of the words which are found in these passages of Scripture for they bring us face to face with the prophetic fulfillment of that which is found in the prophetic writings of Isaiah and Micah. It’s important for us to note that the rule and reign of the Messiah weren’t prophesied and foretold solely by the prophets Isaiah and Micah but were also prophesied by others throughout the years under the Old Covenant. What we find in the seventh and ninth chapters of the Old Testament prophetic book of Isaiah is not only a description of the Messiah and Christ being born but born unto a virgin as a Son given unto us. It would be through the prophet Isaiah we find this servant of the Lord emphatically declaring that the Messiah would indeed be born unto us as a Son who would be born for a very specific purpose. Not only would the Messiah be born for a very specific purpose but He would also have very specific names, titles, roles and functions. Oh it would be very easy to read the words which are found in these two chapters which are found in the seventh and ninth chapters of the Old Testament prophetic book of Isaiah and view them merely as titles, however, we must needs recognize and understand that what we find here are more than simply names given unto the Messiah. As we read the words found in this passage of Scripture we are brought face to face with the incredible truth that these names are actually so much more than names for they are also assignments, roles and functions that would be fulfilled by the Messiah who was to come into the earth. The more you read the words which are found in this passage of Scripture the more you can and will be brought face to face with the incredible truth surrounding these names which would actually be more like titles, assignments and functions of the Messiah within the earth. It would be in the seventh chapter of the Old Testament prophetic book of Isaiah we find the prophet speaking of the virgin conceiving and bringing forth a son and how the name of the son would indeed be Immanuel—a name which would not be explained within that prophetic declaration but would be explained later on by the angel Gabriel. If there is one thing I can’t help but think about when reading the words found within these passages of Scripture it’s how these names are so much more than simply names which the Messiah would be called. The words found in these passages of Scripture must be carefully understood for they bring us face to face with the awesome and powerful truth surrounding these names and titles which were given unto the Messiah and Christ before He would even be born. Even before the virgin would conceive and bring forth a son and even before this Son would be given unto us we find it absolutely astounding and remarkable that the Holy Spirit would provide us with titles and descriptions for this Son who would indeed be born unto and among us. There is a great need within these passages of Scripture to call and draw our attention to the role and purpose the Messiah would have in the midst of the earth for these titles would indeed confront us with the powerful truth surrounding the Messiah which was to come and how this one who would be born of a virgin would indeed be called Immanuel. It would be in the ninth chapter of the Old Testament prophetic book of Isaiah we find the prophet declaring how it would be unto us (the people of Israel in the land of Israel) a child would be born and unto them a son would be given. What’s more is that if you continue reading the words which are found in this passage you will find the prophet going on to declare how the government would be upon his shoulder—a government which would rule over the nations of the earth from and upon the throne of His father David. Not only this but as you continue reading the words which are found in this passage of Scripture you will find the prophet going on to declare according to the word of the Lord how this Son would be called Wonderful, Counseller, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace. Oh how absolutely incredible it is to read the words which are found in this passage of Scripture for not only do we read how the government would be upon his shoulder but we also read how of the increase of his government and peace there would be no end. I absolutely love the words which we find in this passage of Scripture for within it we are brought face to face with the incredible truth that the Messiah would indeed be called Wonderful—a title which would not only describe His name but also His nature. Moreover you will find the prophet Isaiah going on to declare concerning the Messiah that He would indeed be called Counseller which would describe the ministry which the Messiah would be engaged in during the days in which He would walk upon the earth in the form of physical flesh. Oh we dare not and must not miss and lose sight of this for it calls and draws our attention to the role, the purpose and the function of the Messiah in the midst of the earth for not only would He be called and considered wonderful but He would also be considered to be our Counseller. As if this weren’t enough we also find the Messiah being considered the Mighty God, the everlasting Father and the Prince of Peace. How absolutely marvelous and wonderful it is to read the words found in this passage of Scripture for within it we are brought face to face with the beautiful and captivating truth surrounding the Messiah and how he would indeed be born unto us as a Son—a Son who would indeed be given unto us. It would be the Messiah who would be born unto us and would be unto and for us Wonderful, Counseller, the mighty God, the everlasting Father and the Prince of Peace. Oh there is a great need to recognize and pay close attention to the words which we find in this passage of Scripture as it calls and invites us into the place where we recognize and understand the role the Messiah would have in the midst of the earth as one who would be our advocate. Oh if there is something we must needs acknowledge when reading the words found in this passage of Scripture before we delve into the language found in the New Testament gospel narratives written by the beloved physician Luke and the apostle Matthew it’s the role and foundation the Messiah would indeed serve—not only as He walked upon the face of the earth as the Word made flesh but also after He would ascend unto the right hand of the Father. Oh with this in mind I invite you to consider the following words which are found in the first chapter of the New Testament gospel narrative written by the apostle John as well as the words which are found in the first and second chapters of the New Testament epistle written unto the Hebrews: “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. All things were made by him; and without him was not any thing made that was made. In him was life; and the life was the light of men. And the light shine the in darkness; and the darkness comprehended it not. There was a man sent from God, whose name was John. The same came for a witness, to bear witness of the Light, that all men through him might believe. He was not that Light, but was sent to bear witness of that Light. That was the truth Light, which lighters every man that cometh into the world. He was in the world, and the world was made by him, and the world knew him not. He came unto his own, and his own received him not. But as many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name: which were born, not of the blood, nor of the will of the flesh, nor of the will of man, but of 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. John bare witness of him, and cried, saying, This was he of whom I spake, He that cometh after me is preferred before me: for he was before me. And of his fullness have all we received, and grace for grace. For the law was given by Moses, but grace and truth came by Jesus Christ. NO man hath seen God at any time; the only begotten Son, which is in the bottom of the Father, he hath declare him” (John 1:1-18). “God, who at sundry times and in divers manners spake in time past unto the fathers by the prophets, hath in these last days spoken unto us by his Son, whom he hath appointed heir of all things, by whom also he made the worlds; who being the brightness of his glory, and the express image of his person, and upholding all things by the word of his power, when he had by himself purged our sins, sat down on the right hand of the Majesty on high; being made so much better than the angels, as he hath by inheritance obtained a more excellent name than they. For unto which of the angels said he at any time, Thou art my Son, this day have I begotten thee? And again, I will be to him a Father, and he shall be to me a Son? And again, when he bringeth in the first begotten into the world, he saith, And let all the angels of God worship him. And of the angels he saith, Who maketh his angels spirits, and his ministers a flame of fire. But unto the Son he saith, Thy throne, O God, is for ever and ever: a sceptre of righteousness is the sceptre of thy kingdom. Thou hast loved righteousness, and hated iniquity; therefore God, even thy God, hath anointed thee with the oil of gladness above thy fellows. And, Thou, Lord, in the beginning hast laid the foundation of the earth; and the heavens are the works of thine hands: they shall perish; but thou remain east; and they all shall wax old as doth a garment; and as a vesture shalt thou fold them up, and they shall be changed: but thou art the same, and thy years shall not fail. But to which of the angels said he at any time, Sit on my right hand, until I make thine enemies thy footstool? Are they not all ministering spirits, sent forth to minister for them who shall be heirs of salvation” (Hebrews 1:1-14). “For unto the angels hath he not put in subjection the world to come, whereof we speak. But one in a certain place testified, saying, What is man, that thou art mindful of him? Or the son of man, that thou visitest him? Thou madest him a little lower than the angels; thou crowned at him with glory and honour, and dust set him over the works of thy hands: Thou hast put all things in subjection under his feet. For in that he put all in subjection under him, he left nothing that is not put under him. But now we see not yet all things put under him. But we see Jesus, who was made a little lower than t he angels for the suffering of death, crowned with glory and honour; that he by the grace of God should taste death for every man. For it became him, for whom are all things, and by whom are all things, in bringing many sons unto glory, to make the captain of their salvation perfect through sufferings. For both he that sanctifieth and they who are sanctified are all of one: for which cause he is not ashamed to call them brethren, saying, I will declare thy name unto my brethren, in the midst of the church will I sing praise unto thee. And again, I will put my trust in him. And again, Behold I and the children which God hath given me. Forasmuch then as the children are partakers of flesh and blood, he also himself likewise took part of the same; that though death he might destroy him that had the power of death, that is, the devil; and deliver them who through fear of death were all their lifetime subject to bondage. For verily he took not on him the nature of angels; but he took on him the seed of Abraham. Wherefore in all things it behoved him to be made like unto his brethren, that he might be a merciful and faithful high priest in things pertaining to God, to make reconciliation for the sins of the people. For in that he himself hath suffered being tempted, he is able to succour them that are tempted” (Hebrews 2:5-18). There is a tremendous amount of truth and beauty that is found in these passages of Scripture for within them we are brought face to face with the role and function of the Lord Jesus. Through the prophet Isaiah we learn that there would be a child who would be born and a son who would be given—a reality that would be further confirmed in the seventh chapter when we learn that this child would indeed be born of a virgin. Oh there is something truly magnificent and wonderful about this particular truth for within the prophetic book of Isaiah we encounter and are brought face to face with the reality that this child who would be born unto us would not only be Wonderful but would also be our Counseller. This child which would be born unto us would indeed be the Prince of Peace and would be the mighty God who would be given unto us. We dare not and must not miss and lose sight of this—particularly and especially when we consider the words which are found in the first two chapters of the epistle written unto the Hebrews—for within them we are brought face to face with the beauty of One who took on the form of human flesh and the seed of Abraham that he might be able to effectively fulfill that for which He had been called and sent. We as the saints of God and disciples of the Lord Jesus Christ must recognize that the Messiah who would be born unto us would be more than simply a Son who would be born of a virgin and given unto us but would indeed be called Immanuel. This name Immanuel would be more than simply a name given unto this Son but it would also be a title and role that He would serve and hold while walking among us. By taking on the form of human flesh this Son who was born of a virgin would indeed be God in the flesh and this reality would be more than just a name for it would actually be a title that would be given unto Him. This word “Immanuel” would perfectly describe that which this Son would encompass and embody while present among us for this Son would indeed be God with us. Remember the words which the apostle John wrote concerning the Word and how the Word was in the beginning, and how the Word was God and how the Word was God. The more we think about and consider the words which are found in these passages of Scripture the more we are brought face to face with the incredible truth surrounding the Word which became flesh and dwelt among us. It would be the eternal and living Word who would lay aside His glory—the glory that He had with the Father from before the time began that He might truly walk among us in the form of human flesh. The Word would humble Himself by taking the form of human flesh upon Himself that He might truly walk among us as the embodiment of the living and eternal God. Oh I can’t help but be reminded of the words which are found in the third chapter of the New Testament gospel narrative written by the apostle John as well as the words which are found in the second chapter of the pixelate written by the apostle unto the saints which were at Philippi. The words which we find in these passages of Scripture not only present us with the reality that God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son but also that it would be that Son who would humble Himself—even to the point of suffering and death. I am absolutely convinced there is a great need for us to consider each of these passages as they call and draw our attention to the beautiful manifestation of the Son of God as He would lay aside His glory—the glory which He had with the Father from before the time begin. Consider if you will the following words which are found in each of these passages of Scripture beginning with the words Jesus spoke in the third chapter unto Nicodemus who came to him by night: “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 saith unto him, How can a man be born when he is old? Can he enter the second time into his mother’s womb, and be born? 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. 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. The wind blowers where it listeth, and thou hearest the sound thereof, but canst not tell whence it cometh, and whither it goeth: so is every one that is born of the Spirit. Nicodemus answered and said unto him, How can these things be? Jesus answered and said unto him, Art thou a master of Israel, and knowest not these things? Verily, verily, I say unto thee, We speak that we do know, and testify that we have seen; and ye receive not our witness. If I have told you earthly things, and ye believe not, how shall ye believe, if I tell you of heavenly things? And no man hath ascended up to heaven, but he that came down from heaven, even the Son of man which is in heaven. And as Moses lifted up the serpent in the wilderness, even so must the Son of man be lifted up: That whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have eternal life. 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. For God sent not his Son into the world to condemn the world; but that the world through him might be saved. He that believeth on him is not condemned: but he that believeth not is condemned already, because he hath not believed in the name of the only begotten Son of God. And this is the condemnation, that light is come into the world, and men loved darkness rather than light, because their deeds were evil. For every one that doeth evil hateth the light, neither cometh to the light, lest his deed should be reproved. But he that doeth truth cometh to the light, that his deeds may be made manifest, that they are wrought in God” (John 3:1-21). “If there be therefore any consolation in Christ, if any comfort of love, if any fellowship of the Spirit, if any bowels and mercies, fulfil ye my joy, that ye be likeminded, having the same love, being of one accord, of one mind. Let nothing be done through strife or vain glory; but in loveliness of mind let each esteem other better than thamelseves. Look not every man on his own things, but every man also on the things of others. Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus: Who, being in the form of God, thought it not robbery to be equal with God: But made himself of no reputation, and took upon him the form of a servant, and was made in the likeness of men: and being found in fashion as a man, he humbled himself, and become obedient unto death, even the death of the cross. Wherefore God also hath highly exalted him, and given him a name which is above every name: that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of things in heaven, and things in earth, and things under the earth; and that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father. Wherefore, my beloved, as ye have always obeyed, not as in my presence only, but now much more in my absence, work out your own salvation with fear and trembling. For it is God which worketh in you both to will and to do of his good pleasure. Do all things without murmurings and disputing: that ye may be blameless and harmless, the sons of God, without rebuke, in the midst of a crooked and perverse nation, among whom eye shine as lights in the world; holding forth the word of life; that I may rejoice in the day of Christ, that I have not run, neither labored in vain. Yea, and if I be offered upon the sacrifice and service of you faith, I joy, and rejoice with you all. For the same cause also do ye joy, and rejoice with me” (Philippians 2:1-18). There is a great need for us to recognize and understand the words which are found in each of these passages of Scripture for they call and bring our attention to the tremendous truth surrounding the Father giving the eternal and only begotten Son that whosoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life. I have long said how when the eternal Father wanted to accomplish His greatest work in the earth He did not send servants, or prophets, or anyone else but rather He sent His Son. I find it absolutely astonishing to read the words found in this passage of Scripture for within it we encounter the beauty surrounding the Lord Jesus Christ and how He was sent into the world—not only as a Son but as the Son. The living and eternal God sent the only begotten and beloved Son into the earth that whosoever would believe in Him should not perish but have everlasting life. In fact it would be this particular reality that would be seen at the Jordan River when the Lord Jesus emerged from the waters of the Jordan River. It would be there at the Jordan River the Lord Jesus Christ would emerge from the waters of the Jordan River after being baptized by John the Baptist. As Jesus emerged from the waters of the Jordan River the heavens would be opened, the Spirit would descend upon Him in the bodily form as a dove and the voice of the Father would speak from heaven emphatically declaring that this was His beloved Son in whom He was well pleased. Oh we must needs recognize and pay close attention to this truth for when we think about the Messiah and the Christ we must not only recognize that He was a servant but that He was also the eternal and only begotten Son. It would be the prophet Isaiah who would use the language of a Son when speaking of the Messiah being born into the earth. It would be the eternal and only begotten Son of the living God who would be raised up in the midst of the earth to fulfill the greatest purpose and assignment given unto any one who would walk in obedience unto the living God. It is having said all of this I find it absolutely necessary to call and draw your attention to the words which are found in each of the four New Testament gospels concerning the baptism of the Lord Jesus Christ. There at the waters of the Jordan Rivers as the Lord Jesus emerged from the waters of baptism—before He had overcome the temptation(s) that would await Him in the wilderness, before He would preach a single sermon, before he would perform a single miracle, before He would do anything in the sight and presence of the eternal Father the voice of the Father would pierce the silence there at the Jordan River by emphatically declaring and proclaiming that this Jesus of Nazareth was indeed His eternal and only begotten Son. At the Jordan River the Lord Jesus would emerge from the waters and would experience the heavens being opened before and unto Him—much like the heavens were opened before the priest turned prophet Ezekiel by the river in Babylon as the heavens were opened unto him. There at the Jordan River the heavens would be opened before and unto the Lord Jesus Christ and the voice of the Father would speak forth emphatically declaring unto the Lord Jesus that He was indeed His begotten Son in whom He was well pleased. Pause for a moment and consider how absolutely incredible this truly is for there is something incredibly beautiful about the Lord Jesus Christ hearing the voice of the Father breaking the silence there at the waters of the Jordan River confirming that He was indeed His eternal and only begotten Son. Oh there is not a doubt in my mind that Jesus Himself witnessed the heavens opened, the Spirit descending upon Him in the bodily form as a dove, and heard the voice of the living God declare that He was His beloved Son in whom He was well pleased and yet I can’t help but wonder if John the Baptist heard the voice too. It wasn’t merely that the heavens were opened but the Spirit would also descend upon Jesus of Nazareth in the bodily form of a dove as the voice of the eternal Father would proclaim concerning Jesus that He was His Son. Consider if you will the following accounts of the baptism of the Lord Jesus Christ at the Jordan River beginning with the New Testament gospel narrative written by the apostle Matthew: “Then cometh Jesus from Galilee to Jordan unto John, to be baptized of him. But John forbid him, saying, I have need to be baptized of thee, and comest thou to me? And Jesus answering said unto him, Suffer it to be so now: for thus it be cometh us to fulfil all righteousness. Then he suffered him. And Jesus, when he was baptized, went up straightway out of the water: and, lo, the heavens were opened unto him, and he saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove, and lighting upon him: and lo a voice from heaven, saying, This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased” (Matthew 3:13-17). “And it came to pass in those days, that Jesus came from Nazareth of Galilee, and was baptized of John in Jordan. And straightway coming up out of the water, he saw the heavens opened, and the Spirit like a dove descending upon him: and there came a voice from heaven, saying, Thou art my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased” (Mark 1:9-11). “Now when all the people were baptized, it came to pass, that Jesus also being baptized, and praying, the heavens was opened, and the Holy Ghost descended in a bodily shape like a dove upon him, and a voice came from heaven, which said, Thou art my beloved Son; in thee I am well pleased” (Luke 3:21-22). These passages highlight and underscore the tremendous truth surrounding the Lord Jesus at the Jordan River and how when He came forth from the Jordan River the heavens would be opened unto Him. Not only would the heavens be opened unto the Lord Jesus but the Holy Spirit would descend upon Him in the bodily form as a dove. As if this weren’t enough the living and eternal God would break the silence of that day and would emphatically declare concerning the Lord Jesus that He was indeed His eternal and only begotten Son. From the very outset of His ministry the Lord Jesus would walk in the revelation and knowledge that He was indeed the eternal and only begotten Son of the Father. Oh there is a part of me that can’t help but wonder if prior to being born of the Virgin Mary Jesus was known in heaven as the eternal and only begotten Son. Is it possible that before Jesus was born of the Virgin Mary He was known in heaven as the eternal and only begotten Son or was He known as and by something entirely different? We know from the prophetic declarations of Isaiah that the Messiah would indeed be born unto a virgin that He would be given unto us as a Son who was born. It would be through the prophet Isaiah we encounter the awesome reality that the Messiah would be more than simply a servant who was sent by the living God but would indeed be a Son. This is something we must needs recognize for in the opening chapter of the gospel narrative written by the apostle John we encounter the powerful truth that the Word was in the beginning with God, that the Word was in the beginning, and the Word was God. This is something which is truly interesting when you take the time to think about it for I can’t help but be intrigued with the relationship which existed between the living and eternal God and the second member of the Trinity which would be known as the Son. In the New Testament we are very much aware of the triune Godhead and how the Godhead is made up of three different and distinct members who are One. The triune Godhead is made up of God the Father, God the Son and God the Holy Spirit and these three are indeed unique and different and yet perfectly united together as one. Oh we must needs recognize how incredibly important this truly is for before the Messiah was known as such in the earth He would be known in heaven as something entirely different. We know that atop the mountain Jesus of Nazareth was transfigured in the sight and presence of Simon called Peter, James and his brother John and appeared with a measure of the glory which He had with the Father before time began. This is something we must needs understand and recognize for it calls and draws our attention to the truth surrounding the relationship which existed between the Father and the Son prior to His being manifested in the earth. If there is one thing I so absolutely love about the words which are found in the New Testament gospel narratives written by the beloved physician Luke as well as the apostle Matthew it’s how we learn and discover concerning the Lord Jesus that He was indeed the eternal and only begotten Son of the living God. This is something which is presented in the gospel narratives written by the apostle John and John Mark, however, it is in the New Testament gospel narratives written by Luke and Matthew we find narratives which describe the birth of the eternal and only begotten Son of the living God. These passages not only demonstrate the incredible truth of the Messiah being born as a Son but also provide us with the name of the Messiah. Oh I absolutely love the words and language found in these two gospels for they confront us with the incredibly awesome and powerful truth surrounding the manifestation of the eternal and only begotten Son of the living God in the midst of the earth. WE LEARN HIS NAME! WE DISCOVER THE NAME OF THE MESSIAH! WHEN THE NAME IS HEARD FOR THE VERY FIRST TIME! BEHOLD THE NAME OF THE MESSIAH! Oh I sit here today thinking a bout the words which are found in this passage of Scripture and I am brought face to face with how absolutely incredible the language truly is for after centuries and generations of expectation and anticipation we find the angel Gabriel being sent from the throne of God with a very specific name in his heart and upon his lips. I can’t help but imagine what it must have been like for the angel Gabriel as he would descend from heaven and be manifested in the realm of time and space as the eternal and only begotten Son of the living God. There is something we must needs acknowledge when reading the words found in this passage of Scripture for within it we find the angel Gabriel appearing unto both Mary and Joseph separately with the same underlying purpose and function to deliver the name of the child who would be born unto them. We know from the prophetic book of Isaiah that it would be unto us a child would be born and unto us a son would be given, however, it is in these two gospels we are brought face to face with the astonishing truth surrounding the eternal and only begotten Son and the name that would be given unto Him. What a truly awesome and powerful reality is found in the New Testament gospel narrative written by the apostle Matthew as well as that which was written by John Mark for it is within these passages we encounter and are brought face to face with the truth surrounding the name of the Lord Jesus when it was given unto the angel Gabriel to announce it unto Mary and Joseph. Up until that point there was the expectation of the Messiah who was to come, however, no one knew the name that would be given unto the Messiah. Now here we find the angel Gabriel descending from the before the throne of God and entering into the realm of time and space to proclaim the name of the Messiah which would be born unto the Virgin Mary. Having said this I invite you to consider the following words which are found in the New Testament gospel narrative written by the beloved physician Luke as well as the apostle Matthew. I am absolutely convinced we must needs pay close attention to the words contained within these passages for they bring us face to face with the truth surrounding the angelic visitation of Gabriel unto both Mary and Joseph as he would proclaim the name of the Lord Jesus. Oh I firmly believe these are two of the loudest proclamations and declarations you will find in all of history for it is within these proclamations we find the name of the eternal and only begotten Son of the Father. There is not a doubt in my mind we must needs recognize and pay close attention to the words contained in these passages of Scripture for within them we learn and discover for the first time the name of the Messiah and the Christ. Oh imagine reading the Scripture for the first time without reading the New Testament and having this expectation and anticipation within your heart as you knew the Messiah was promised and was coming but you did not know His name. imagine coming to the New Testament gospel narrative written by the apostle Matthew and for the first time in history learning the name of the Messiah as it was announcers by the angel Gabriel. Imagine being Joseph who was originally planning on putting away Mary quietly and receiving an angelic visitation from the angel Gabriel who would not only declare unto him the child growing within her womb was of the Holy Spirit but also that the name of the child would be Jesus. What’s more is imagine Mary herself who would be told that she would conceive a child within her womb as a direct result of the Holy Spirit coming upon her and the power of the Highest overshadowing her. Not only this but imagine what it would have been like for them to hear and discover the name of this child which be born—the name JESUS. Oh with this in mind here are the following words which are found in the New Testament gospel narratives written by the apostle Matthew as well as the beloved physician Luke: “Now the birth of Jesus Christ was on this wise: When as his mother Mary was espoused to Joseph, before they came together, she was found with child of the Holy Ghost. Then Joseph her husband, being a just man, and not willing to make her a publick example, was minded got put her away privileges. But while he thought on these things, behold, the angel of the Lord appeared unto him in a dream, saying, Joseph, thou son of David, fear not to take unto thee mary thy wife: for that which is conceived in her is of the Holy Ghost. And she shall bring forth a son, and thou shalt call his name JESUS: for he shall save his people from their sins. Now all this was done, that it might be fulfilled which was spoken of the Lord by the prophet, saying, Behold a virgin shall be with child, and shall bring forth a son, and they shall call his name Emmanuel, which being interpreted is, God with us. Then Joseph being raised from sleep did as the angel of the Lord had hidden him, and took unto him his wife: and knew hew not till she had brought forth her firstborn son: and he called his name JESUS” (Matthew 1:18-25). “And in the sixth mont he angel Gabriel was sent from God unto a city of Galilee, named Nazareth, to a virgin espoused to a man whose name was Joseph, of the house of David; and the virgin’s name was Mary. And the angel came in unto her, and said, Hail, thou that art highly favored, the LORD is with thee: Blessed art thou among women. And when she saw him, she was troubled at his saying, and cast in her mind what manner of salutation this should be. And the angel said unto her, Fear not, Mary: for thou hast found favour with God. And, behold, thou shalt conceive in thy womb, and bring forth a son, and shalt call his name JESUSs. HE shall be great, and shall be called the Son of the Highest: and the Lord God shall give unto him the throne of his father David: and he shall reign over the house of Jacob for ever; and of his k indomitable there shall be no end. Then said Mary unto the angel, How shall this be, seeing I know not a man? And the angel answered and said unto her, The Holy Ghost shall come upon thee, and the power of the Highest shall overshadow thee: Therefore also that holy thing which shall be born of thee shall be called the Son of God. And, behold, thy cousin Elisabeth, she hath also conceived a son in her old age? And this is the sixth month with her, who is called barren. For with God nothing shall be impossible. And Mary said, Behold the handmaid of the Lord; be it unto me according to thy word. And the angel departed from her” (Luke 1:26-38). “And when eight days were accomplished for the circumcising of the child, his name was Calle JESUS, which was so named of the angel before he was conceived in the womb” (Luke 2:21). We dare not and must not miss and lose sight of the words which are found in these passages of Scripture for they call and draw our attention to the incredible truth—not only of the angel Gabriel providing the name of the Messiah which was to be JESUS but also the obedience of Joseph and Mary to follow that which they were commanded. It is as you read the words which are found in these passages of Scripture you will find the angel Gabriel appearing unto Mary in the town of Nazareth of Galilee while in the New Testament gospel narrative written by the apostle Matthew you will find him mention an angel of the Lord visited Joseph in a dream. This is something that requires great consideration on our part for whether these two angelic visitations were performed by the same messenger of God or not they both proclaimed and exclaimed the name of the Messiah for the first time in generations. Up until that point there had been centuries and generations of men and women who had been living with the Messianic expectation within their hearts and souls and yet they would not live to see the day of the Messiah. This is what is truly remarkable about the account of Simeon and Anna for they would be two individuals who would live with the expectation of the Messiah and the Christ within heir hearts and souls and would actually live to see the day. In fact it was revealed unto Simeon by the Holy Ghost that he would not see death until he saw the Lord’s Christ. As it pertains to Anna we find her being a widow of only one husband who would come unto the Temple on the very day the Messiah and Christ would be presented as holy unto the Lord. What’s more is that when you read the words found in this passage of Scripture you will find three different accounts of those who were part of the account of the manifestation and presentation of the Messiah. I sit here today thinking about and considering the words which are found in the second chapter of this New Testament gospel and I am brought face to face with how the angelic host from heaven appeared in the nighttime sky and proclaimed unto shepherds who were tending their flock that a Savior would be born unto them. It would be unto the shepherds an angelic messenger of the Lord would appear unto them and would emphatically declare unto them how on this day in the city of David a Saviour would be born which was Christ the Lord. Not only this but the angel would also give them a sign confirming the presence of this babe which would be the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes and lying in a manger. Pause for a moment and consider how absolutely incredible this truly is when you read of the angelic messenger appearing unto shepherd who were tending their flocks by night. Completely unsuspecting and without any anticipation for that night an angelic messenger and herald of the Lord would appear unto them and essentially proclaim the words of the prophet Isaiah. If you read the words found in this passage of Scripture you will encounter the absolutely awesome and beautiful truth surrounding these shepherds who would receive one of the greatest declarations and proclamations in all of history. It would be these shepherds who would indeed receive the truly wonderful and beautiful declaration of the birth of the Messiah which had taken place on this particular night in the town of Bethlehem. It would be there in the city of David where the great Shepherd would be born in a manger and wrapped in swaddling clothes and it would be unto shepherds—perhaps those who would have been no different than David himself when he was a shepherd who would hear the wonderful and powerful declaration of the Messiah and Christ who was born unto and among them. On this particular night these shepherds would hear the angelic declaration concerning a Saviour which was Christ the Lord being born unto them—and not only this but accompanying the angel of the Lord would be a multitude of the heavenly host who praised God and emphatically proclaimed, “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men.” As I prepare to bring this writing to a close I find it absolutely necessary to call and draw your attention to the incredible stories surrounding the birth of the Messiah which are recorded in the second chapter of this gospel narrative. Beginning with the angelic messenger who appeared in the darkened evening sky and proclaimed unto the shepherds that a Saviour was born unto them which was Christ the Lord to the angelic host that would appear with them praising the living God to the encounter Simeon and Anna had in the Temple we not only find the proclamation and declaration of the Messiah and Christ but we also find a wonderful testimony of those whose expectation was realized. Pause and consider how absolutely incredible it is that the Holy Spirit would intentionally lead Simeon to the Temple that He might see and behold Christ. What a truly awesome and wonderful thought it is to see how Simeon was led by the Holy Spirit to the Temple to not only look upon and behold the Lord’s Christ but also hear His name spoken by Mary and Joseph. Imagine being Simeon and not only looking on and beholding the Lord’s Christ but also to hold Him in your arms and to hear the name of Jesus. What a truly beautiful picture this is when you take the time to think about it for it calls and draws our attention to the wonderful truth surrounding the guidance of the Holy Spirit to lead and draw men and women unto the person of the Lord Jesus Christ. It was through the Spirit Simeon would be brought to the Temple where He would behold the Messiah, touch and handle the Messiah and even speak the name of the Messiah. Imagine what that would have been like as Simeon knew that he would taste death at some point in the near future having not only beheld, but held and spoken the name of JESUS in the Temple. We dare not and must not miss this for there is even the testimony and witness of Anna who would also come unto the Temple where she had served with fastings and prayers night and day. She would come unto Simeon at the time he held Him in his arms and would give thanks unto the Lord and would become a witness unto all those concerning the Messiah and Christ who was born unto them on that day. There is a great need to recognize the words and language found in these passages of Scripture for not only do we find the angels coming unto the manger in the town of Bethlehem where the Messiah and Christ lie in a manger but we also find the Holy Spirit leading Simeon unto the Temple that he might look upon and behold the Lord’s Christ and speak His name. Not only this but we also find Anna who would have undoubtedly been divinely appointed by the living God and ordained to come unto the very place where the Lord’s Christ was that she might also look upon and behold the Messiah and Christ. I am absolutely convinced that we must needs be people who are absolutely governed but the Holy Spirit and those who are brought into the place where we can behold the person of the Lord Jesus Christ. We must needs be those who are brought into the place where we recognize the person and beauty of the Lord Jesus Christ and are such who find beauty in beholding Him and calling upon His name. We must needs acknowledge and understand the need to not only behold JESUS but also to be able to call upon His name. Oh that we would be men and women who would truly and undoubtedly be such who would look upon, behold and speak the name of JESUS—the one who is the Savior and Lord and Christ. Oh that we would be a people who are so enamored and captivated with the beauty of the person of JESUS and allow ourselves to be led by the Holy Spirit to Jesus that we might delight ourselves in His beauty and behold His beauty.