Category: Jesus the Tabernacle Courtyard


The Way to the Father is Through the Spiritual Tabernacle Called Jesus

Filed under: Jesus, Jesus the Tabernacle, Jesus the Tabernacle Courtyard, New Jerusalem, Spirituality, Tabernacle, Uncategorized — 5 Comments
March 5, 2013

The Morning Star Rising on the First Day

The Morning Star Rising on the First Day

The Way to the Father is Through the Spiritual Tabernacle Called Jesus

In our previous posting we look at the parables of Jesus and gained insight into the fact that we can better understand these analogies of Jesus by looking for a spiritual interpretation of them. This principle provides the critical foundation necessary to answer a number of questions I have received from readers. To review our posting that delves into this subject in more detail, please follow this link:  The-Messages-of-Jesus-are-Understood-by-the-Spiritual-Interpretation-of-His-Parables

Questions About the Tabernacle and the Claims of Jesus

This postings is just one in a series of communications that are designed to address a number of questions we referenced above. These questions ask for authoritative scriptural references that support the proposition that Jesus is proclaiming to be the fulfillment of the Tabernacle when He stated, “I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me. (John 14: 6.) These questions also ask for scriptural references that support the proposition that the entryways into the Tabernacle are called the Way, the Truth and the Life.

In addressing these requests the establishment of a scriptural foundation is required, that is best provided in a line upon line fashion. Our first posting (link identified above) started the building of that foundation and we continue to build upon it here. All of this is necessary to provide the insight that many of our readers are asking for.

Jesus is the Fulfillment of the Tabernacle

We start by taking a look at the cornerstone of the questions above, namely, the Jesus, “I am…,” scripture:

“Let not your heart be troubled; you believe in God, believe also in Me. In My Father’s house are many mansions; if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again and receive you to Myself; that where I am, there you may be also. And where I go you know, and the way you know.” Thomas said to Him, “Lord, we do not know where You are going, and how can we know the way?” Jesus said to him, “I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me. (John 14:1-6)

Now in our last posting we learned that: All these things Jesus spoke to the multitude in parables; and without a parable He did not speak to them (Matt 13: 34.) Since the parables of Jesus are spiritual references delivered by way of analogy to worldly things, we should start by looking for a real world object that will help us understand the spiritual truth of Jesus. In other words, we need to find the real world analogy that Jesus is referring to when He states; “I am the way, the truth, and the life No one comes to the Father except through Me?” Well, since Jesus and all the disciples were Jews, one must consider that their worldly view would have been that the only way to the Father was through the Tabernacle.

The Glory Cloud Covers the Tabernacle

The Glory Cloud Covers the Tabernacle

The following scripture validates this statement:

17 “You shall make a mercy seat of pure gold; two and a half cubits shall be its length and a cubit and a half its width. 18 And you shall make two cherubim of gold; of hammered work you shall make them at the two ends of the mercy seat. 19 Make one cherub at one end, and the other cherub at the other end; you shall make the cherubim at the two ends of it of one piece with the mercy seat. 20 And the cherubim shall stretch out their wings above, covering the mercy seat with their wings, and they shall face one another; the faces of the cherubim shall be toward the mercy seat. 21 You shall put the mercy seat on top of the ark, and in the ark you shall put the Testimony that I will give you. 22 And there I will meet with you, and I will speak with you from above the mercy seat, from between the two cherubim which are on the ark of the Testimony, about everything which I will give you in commandment to the children of Israel (Exodus 25: 17-22.)

Priest Before The Ark Of The Covenant

Priest Before The Ark Of The Covenant

In this scripture Moses has recorded the words that God gave Him on the mountain top. In it God communicates with him about how the Most Holy Place (the innermost chamber of the Tabernacle) is to be furnished and arranged. What is clear from reading this scripture is that the Father intends to communicate with Moses from this specific area, deep inside the Tabernacle, as the Tabernacle was built to be the place where God would dwell with man on Earth.

Now, if Jesus was communicating a spiritual message by way of parable in John 14: 1-6, and we know that without a parable He did not speak to them (Matt 13: 34), then the Tabernacle had to be the only possible analogy of His parable. This is true because His dwelling there was a part of Israel’s covenant relationship with the Father.

Moses and the Ten Comandments

Moses and the Ten Comandments

Also, by association, if Jesus is claiming that He is the only way to the Father, and the Tabernacle was their existing way to the Father, then not only is Jesus claiming to be the fulfillment of the Tabernacle; but the terms, the Way, the Truth and the Life, must somehow refer to the pathway through the Tabernacle as well.

To add some support to these conclusions, lets look at John 14: 6 once again: “I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me (John 14: 6.) The word “through” is very important as it gives us a sense that we enter into Jesus at a certain point, and then pass “through” to the other side of Him, where we then come into the presence of Father. This adds support to our case as this is precisely the structure of the Tabernacle built in the time of Moses. At that time the tribes of Israel aligned on all sides of the Tabernacle. There was an entryway that lead into what was called the Outer Courtyard. In the middle of this courtyard was a tent like structure that was called the Holy Place, and it also had a single entrance. The inside of the Tabernacle was divided by a curtain and the area behind the curtain was called the Most Holy Place where the Father dwelt. By the way, this curtain or veil as it is sometimes called, is the same one that was torn in two at the time of the death of Jesus on the cross. In any event, what we see here is that there is a pathway to the Father defined here, and interestingly, there are exactly three entryways that must be passed through to get to the Father. Could these be the spiritual Way, the Truth and the Life that Jesus was referring to? More details on this will be coming in future postings.

The Chanbers of the Tabernacle

The Chanbers of the Tabernacle

So, at this point we have correlated this parable of Jesus to the Tabernacle. We have seen that there is substantial evidence supporting such a proposition. But the Tabernacle is an Earthly object and since we view the words of Jesus as parables, then we must look for a spiritual interpretation, especially since a purely physical interpretation seems unrealistic. So, at this point one has to ask if there is scriptural support for a spiritual Tabernacle? A Tabernacle that resides in a spiritual place like heaven, because if there is, then that scripture would validate much of what we are presenting in this post.

Jesus, the Spiritual Tabernacle

Here is an authoritative scriptural support for a spiritual tabernacle in heaven:

Then I, John, saw the holy city, New Jerusalem, coming down out of heaven from God, prepared as a bride adorned for her husband. And I heard a loud voice from heaven saying, “Behold, the tabernacle of God is with men, and He will dwell with them, and they shall be His people. God Himself will be with them and be their God (Rev 21:2-4.)

the bride of christ

So, this is what Jesus was talking about. The disciples did not know this at the time as the revelation did not come to John until many years after the death, resurrection and the ascension of our Lord into heaven.

In our next posting we will attempt to dig deeper into the correlations between John 14: 1-6 and Revelations 21: 2-4 and find further strength to support what we have presented here today. We will also take a closer look into what is meant by the Way, the Truth and the Life.

Until then, may all of God’s blessings be upon the readers of this post!

possess-the-vision-front02.jpg

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A Visit to Heaven

Filed under: Bride of Christ, heaven, Jesus, Jesus is the Most Holy Place, Jesus is the Most Holy Place, Jesus the Holy Place, Jesus the Tabernacle, Jesus the Tabernacle Courtyard, Spirituality, spirtual warfare, Tabernacle, Tabernacle Courtyard, The Holy Of Holies, The Holy Place, The Most Holy Place — Leave a comment
March 23, 2011

 

The Morning Star Rising on the First Day

 

A Visit to Heaven

In several of my prior postings I have talked about I have used the Tabernacle to help us understand that there are three levels of relationship we can have with God. Recently I saw a video of a man who claims that he has made several trips up to heaven and returned. I believe that he describes these types of relationships rather well. Prior to showing the video I thought it may be good to review one of our messages that delivers a high level review of these types of relationships. Here it is:

So, if we have lost our direction Jesus is the Way. If our life is a lie, Jesus is the Truth. If we are acting in a way that leads to death, Jesus is the Life. Jesus is the Way, the Truth and the Life, just as He claimed. He is the passage way to the Father and is the way through which every form of relationship with the Father can be achieved.

This foundation of Jesus being our spiritual Tabernacle paves the way for us to enter into the Courtyard, the Holy Place, and the Most Holy Place.

This being the case, Jesus is also the veil (or passageway) through which we enter into all three types of relationships that we can have with the Father. It is through the Way (entryway into the Tabernacle Courtyard) that we enter into a relationship of grace with the Father. It is through the Way that we enter the Courtyard where Jesus is the sacrifice for our sin and where we are purified by reflecting on His life and seeking to become like Him.

It is through the Truth (or entryway into the Holy Place of the Tabernacle) that we enter into a relationship of enlightenment with the Father. The Truth leads us into the Holy Place where our pathways are illuminated with God’s direction. This illumination also leads toward communion with God and enables us to become victorious in spiritual warfare.

It is through the Life (or entryway into the Most Holy Place of the Tabernacle) that we enter into a relationship of covenant with the Father. The Life leads us into the Most Holy place where we find peace from our enemies, talk with God directly, receive the protection of His angels, have His law in our hearts, become a royal priesthood and depend on God’s provision exclusively. It is hear that we can once again know only good, and in this regard we are restored to the garden once again.

So now that we have presented what we have said in the past, lets look at the video where the three types of relationship we can have with God in the spiritual realm are described:

So this is very consistent with our prior messages. Entering through the Way of the Tabernacle results in the development of a relationship of grace. In this relationship our sins are forgiven through our repentance and the work of Jesus on the cross. In this relationship we come to see who Jesus is and seek to become like Him in preparation for ministry. In the video we find that the reward for our choices in this regard is to enter a place of peace through Jesus. In this place everyone feel like they are next to Him.

Entering through the Truth of the Tabernacle results in the development of a relationship of empowerment. In this relationship our pathways are illuminated, we develop a closer relationship with the Father, and we become effective in spiritual warfare, or bringing down the bonds of evil here on this earth just like Jesus did. In the video the pastor described this area as belonging to those who worked for God.

Entering through the Life of the Tabernacle results in the development of a relationship of covenant. In this relationship we have a special pact with God that is based upon His promise to us and in turn, our promise to Him. In it we can talk to God directly, receive the support of his angels and become a part of the royal priesthood. In the video this place is reserved for those who walk with God and was wonderful, although indescribable.

So, that is it for today. I am thinking on expanding this topic as there are quite a few scripture that have relevance but have not been discussed to this point.

Until then, may Gods blessings be upon you.

Papa Joe Gordon


 

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Becoming Like Jesus the Way

Filed under: Brazen Laver, Jesus, Jesus the Altar of Burnt Offerings, Jesus the Tabernacle, Jesus the Tabernacle Courtyard — 1 Comment
October 22, 2009

Becoming Like Jesus the “Way”

In our quest to become more like Jesus the Good Shepherd, we must also become the Good Shepherd to whom we are entrusted. We must take an ownership position by guiding them toward the green pastures of God. We must pray for them. We must always remember that the Good Shepherds’ love for His sheep is so great that He protected them with His own life.

Jesus the Good Shepherd

Jesus the Good Shepherd

In a previous posting we were introduced to the Altar of Burnt Offerings (look at the index found in the right hand column of this page.)

The Tabernacle

The Fire Burning in the Brazen Laver of the Tabernacle

What we uncovered there is that this altar is prophetic of Jesus in several ways. We found that the Altar represented the cross of Jesus. We found that the blood of the slaughtered lamb was sprinkled on the Altar for the forgiveness of sins. This of course is prophetic of the shed blood of Jesus on the cross. Finally, the animals’ carcass would be burned on the Altar as a perfect sacrifice to God, and this of course is prophetic of Jesus’ passion that led to His death on the cross. In this way the Brazen Altar of the Tabernacle is perfectly prophetic of Jesus and His purpose of dying on the cross.

Jesus on the Cross

Jesus on the Cross

The sacrifice of Jesus gives us much to contemplate. If we are to follow in His footsteps then we must come to the understanding that sacrifices are required to help people. This often means giving up our own aspirations to ensure that others are loved, protected and looked after. In loving others we loose ourselves as we are no longer internally focused. In this regard we die to ourselves, but with the knowledge that we will gain a better life with God forever in the resurrection (as Jesus was also resurrected.) After all, this is exactly what Jesus did:

For whoever desires to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for My sake will save it. For what profit is it to a man if he gains the whole world, and is himself destroyed or lost? For whoever is ashamed of Me and My words, of him the Son of Man will be ashamed when He comes in His own glory, and in His Father’s, and of the holy angels. (Luke 9:24-26)

Jesus is the Good Shepherd because He chose to save us rather than saving Himself. Jesus did not run from death at our expense but rather gave up His life for us. His life was not taken from Him but rather He gave it freely. He did not defend Himself even though He was innocent of all transgression. The following passages support this position.

Jesus Knew His Fate

Now it came to pass, when Jesus had finished all these sayings, that He said to His disciples, “You know that after two days is the Passover, and the Son of Man will be delivered up to be crucified.” (Matthew 26:1-2)

Jesus Shed His Blood

Then the soldiers came and broke the legs of the first and of the other who was crucified with Him. But when they came to Jesus and saw that He was already dead, they did not break His legs. But one of the soldiers pierced His side with a spear, and immediately blood and water came out. (John 19:32-34)

Jesus Sheds His Blood on the Cross

Jesus Sheds His Blood on the Cross

Jesus Did Not Run

Then Judas, having received a detachment of troops, and officers from the chief priests and Pharisees, came there with lanterns, torches, and weapons. Jesus therefore, knowing all things that would come upon Him, went forward and said to them, “Whom are you seeking?” They answered Him, “Jesus of Nazareth.” Jesus said to them, “I am He.” And Judas, who betrayed Him, also stood with them. Now when He said to them, “I am He,” they drew back and fell to the ground. Then He asked them again, “Whom are you seeking?” And they said, “Jesus of Nazareth.” Jesus answered, “I have told you that I am He. Therefore, if you seek Me, let these go their way,” that the saying might be fulfilled which He spoke, “Of those whom You gave Me I have lost none.” (John 18:3-9)

Jesus Did Not Defend Himself

Immediately, in the morning, the chief priests held a consultation with the elders and scribes and the whole council; and they bound Jesus, led Him away, and delivered Him to Pilate. Then Pilate asked Him, “Are You the King of the Jews?” He answered and said to him, “It is as you say.” And the chief priests accused Him of many things, but He answered nothing. Then Pilate asked Him again, saying, “Do You answer nothing? See how many things they testify against You!” But Jesus still answered nothing, so that Pilate marveled. (Mark 15:1-5)

In patterning our own lives after the life of Jesus, we find that there are many lessons to be gained by becoming like Jesus, “The Way.” First of all, Jesus was obedient to The Father in going to the cross. So, the sacrificing of our own way in obedience to the Father is something we should strive to achieve.

Then Jesus said to His disciples, “If anyone desires to come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow Me. For whoever desires to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for My sake will find it. For what profit is it to a man if he gains the whole world, and loses his own soul? Or what will a man give in exchange for his soul? For the Son of Man will come in the glory of His Father with His angels, and then He will reward each according to his works.” (Matthew 16:24-27)

Second, we must strive to support the welfare and betterment of others.

For whoever gives you a cup of water to drink in My name, because you belong to Christ, assuredly, I say to you, he will by no means lose his reward. (Mark 9:41)

Third, we must be ready to resist the status quo that will seek to derail our quest to do the good work that God has shown us to do.

Then many of the Jews who had come to Mary, and had seen the things Jesus did, believed in Him. But some of them went away to the Pharisees and told them the things Jesus did. Then the chief priests and the Pharisees gathered a council and said, “What shall we do? For this Man works many signs. If we let Him alone like this, everyone will believe in Him, and the Romans will come and take away both our place and nation.” And one of them, Caiaphas, being high priest that year, said to them, “You know nothing at all, nor do you consider that it is expedient for us that one man should die for the people, and not that the whole nation should perish.” Now this he did not say on his own authority; but being high priest that year he prophesied that Jesus would die for the nation, and not for that nation only, but also that He would gather together in one the children of God who were scattered abroad. Then, from that day on, they plotted to put Him to death. (John 11:45-53)

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The Tabernacle Is Prophetic Of Jesus

Filed under: Covenant, Faith, Jesus, Jesus is the Most Holy Place, Jesus is the Most Holy Place, Jesus the Holy Place, Jesus the Tabernacle, Jesus the Tabernacle Courtyard, Tabernacle, Tabernacle Courtyard, The Holy Of Holies, The Holy Place — 2 Comments
September 29, 2009

The Tabernacle Is Prophetic Of Jesus

The Tabernacle was built to be the earthly abode of God: the place where God would dwell among His people. The following diagram will enable you to see the organizational structure of the Tabernacle.

The Chanbers of the Tabernacle

The Chanbers of the Tabernacle

In addition, the Following picture also communicates how it may have actually looked.

The Tabernacle Courtyard

The Tabernacle Courtyard

The Tabernacle

Moses built the Tabernacle in strict conformance to the specifications given by God. For example, in the following scripture God gives Moses a detailed list of items that are required to build the Tabernacle:

Then the LORD spoke to Moses, saying: “Speak to the children of Israel, that they bring Me an offering. From everyone who gives it willingly with his heart you shall take My offering. And this is the offering which you shall take from them: gold, silver, and bronze; blue, purple, and scarlet thread, fine linen, and goats’ hair; ram skins dyed red, badger skins, and acacia wood; oil for the light, and spices for the anointing oil and for the sweet incense; onyx stones, and stones to be set in the ephod and in the breastplate. And let them make Me a sanctuary, that I may dwell among them. According to all that I show you, that is, the pattern of the tabernacle and the pattern of all its furnishings, just so you shall make it.” (Exodus 25:1-9)

Statements like this one are frequently found in the scriptures written by Moses. Many of these references emphasize building of the Tabernacle precisely to God’s instructions. This fact suggests that the form and content of the Tabernacle is extremely important to God; that perhaps it is designed on a heavenly model, one that will enable Him to dwell among His people. If this is the case, then the Tabernacle must be prophetic of the Christ who would also come to dwell with God’s people. Over the centuries the intention of God to dwell with His people did not change as even today, He continues to strive to restore the relationship man lost with Him at the fall. Therefore, the scriptures that define the specifications, processes and objects found in the Tabernacle reflect the will of God to abide with us, and as a result, must also be applicable to the attributes, words and life of Christ, who was sent to accomplish God’s intention.

The Ascension of Jesus

We are going to look at the Tabernacle scriptures because they are prophetic of Christ. If Jesus is the Christ then the attributes and characteristics of the Tabernacle must be clearly demonstrated in His words and deeds. What we are about to reveal is that there is a precise correlation between the Tabernacle and Jesus. It is for this reason that we will use the scriptural specifications for each component of the Tabernacle to prove that Jesus is the Christ. In the process we will also uncover many hidden attributes of Jesus that will serve to help us better understand His nature.

The Ascension of Jesus

The Ascension of Jesus

Remembering that Jesus claimed to be “the Way, the Truth and the Life”, we look at the diagram found at (You ARE the Temple of the Holy Spirit) to find that these names (the Way, the Truth and the Life) are used to identify the entryways into the three major compartments of the Tabernacle. The Way leads us into the Courtyard, the Truth leads us into the Holy Place, and the Life leads us into the Most Holy Place. It should also be noted that the Tabernacle is constructed in such a way that these passageways must be entered in order. The Way must be entered prior to entering the Truth, and the Truth must be entered prior to entering the Way. This significance will be discussed latter.

So, what we find here is that the words of Jesus have led us to the Tabernacle. His claim is that He is the passageway into the three compartments of the place that God designed to dwell with His people here on earth. Therefore, our plan is to investigate each of these three chambers in an effort to identify what it is that He is leading us toward. What we will find is that Jesus is drawing us into a closer relationship with God. He is drawing us toward Him by showing us that the Tabernacle because tells us about Him. Jesus knows that in doing this we will grow and strengthen our relationship with Him. What we are about to discover is that the Tabernacle structure will communicate that there are three separate and distinct levels of relationship that we can have with God. In addition, these relationships can only be obtained by passing through the doors of the Tabernacle in the prescribed sequence. In fact, we will develop a progressively deeper relationship with God as we enter each successive chamber to find the gifts that God has waiting for those who seek Him with all their heart.

While all of this is quite mysterious at a high level, we plan to present the details in subsequent postings. For now we will present a high level overview of our journey through the Tabernacle and its correlation with the life of Jesus. With that said let us start with the Tabernacle Courtyard.

The Tabernacle

The Tabernacle

The Tabernacle Courtyard

Our presentation of the Tabernacle Courtyard is found in the following post:

The-Tabernacle-Courtyard-And-Jesus

The Tabernacle Holy Place

Priest in the Holy Place of the Tabernacle

Priest in the Holy Place of the Tabernacle

Our presentation of the Tabernacle Holy Place is found in the following post:

The-Tabernacle-Holy-Place-Is-Prophetic-Of-Jesus

The Tabernacle Most Holy Place

The Priest in the Holy of Holies

The Priest in the Holy of Holies

Our presentation of the Tabernacles Most Holy Place is found in the following post:

The-Tabernacle-Most-Holy-Place-Is-Prophetic-Of-Jesus

All of these links will also lead the reader toward a better understanding of the objects found inside each of the major chambers of the Tabernacle. They will also lead toward a better understanding how each object is prophetic of the coming of Jesus.

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Preparing the Bride of Christ for Jesus

Filed under: Bride of Christ, Covenant, Jesus, Jesus is the Most Holy Place, Jesus is the Most Holy Place, Jesus the Holy Place, Jesus the Tabernacle, Jesus the Tabernacle Courtyard, Ministry, Spirituality, spirtual warfare — 4 Comments
September 20, 2009

Preparing the Bride of Christ for Jesus

We introduced the Bride of Christ in a previous post (The-Bride-of-Christ-Revealed) and now attempt to expand on this subject a bit. Our understanding of the bride is critical because Jesus is coming back for His bride and therefore, we should do all that we can to prepare for this event. To this end an understanding who the bride is and knowledge of how to prepare for the second coming of Jesus is of primary importance to those of us who are truly seeking Jesus.

The New Jerusalem - The Bride of Christ

The New Jerusalem - The Bride of Christ

We as Christians must all seek to be a part of the bride of Christ. Doing so means that we all become a part of something much bigger that ourselves. We become a part of the collective body of all the saints who followed and worshiped Jesus. By becoming a part of this body we become eligible to also become one in marriage to Jesus and to live forever in His care. This is the ultimate goal of regaining the garden and dwelling there with God in the cool of the day.

But are we ready? Are we even members of the bride? If so, are we ready for the marriage feast? Has the pathway for our Lords return been made straight? Is the bride of whom we are a member matured and ready for this most scared union with God?

On an individual basis we must examine our lives to determine if we have done the things that Jesus did when He walked the earth? Did we say the things that He did? Have we emulated His life in everything that we do? Have we achieved the individual purity and holiness required to being a part of the bride?

In doing these things the body of Christ (which is the bride in waiting) grows and matures. Jesus has sent us to prepare a way for His return. He has put us in charge of His ministry and He wants us to finish the work that He started. It is in the completion of this work that the bride is matured. Only when the bride has sufficiently matured will the bridegroom come for His bride.

Now let’s take a look at a scripture that foresees the coming of the bride and the bridegroom:

Then I, John, saw the holy city, New Jerusalem, coming down out of heaven from God, prepared as a bride adorned for her husband. And I heard a loud voice from heaven saying, “Behold, the tabernacle of God is with men, and He will dwell with them, and they shall be His people. God Himself will be with them and be their God. And God will wipe away every tear from their eyes; there shall be no more death, nor sorrow, nor crying. There shall be no more pain, for the former things have passed away.” Then He who sat on the throne said, “Behold, I make all things new.” And He said to me, “Write, for these words are true and faithful.” (Revelation 21:2-5)

The New Jerusalem is the bride of Christ in this passage. Firstly, she is adorned as a bride and is seen coming down from heaven. She therefore is the body of all the saints of Jesus. As Jerusalem is a city comprised of many people, so the New Jerusalem (the bride) is comprised of God’s saints.

The scripture above also communicates that the Bride is adorned for her husband and therefore she has prepared herself for the wedding feast. On an individual basis this adornment is initiated as we are cleansed in the Blood of our Lamb Jesus on the cross (Jesus-is-the-Way).  It is completed by the washing in the water of His word (Jesus-the-Brazen-Laver), which matures us as we seek to become like our Lord (Becoming-like-Jesus-the-Way). Finally, our adornment comes by being victorious in the spiritual warfare of Jesus (Jesus-is-the-Golden-Altar-of-Incense). In achieving this we enter a closer relationship with God where as we are empowered to know our mission and pathway, as we develop a familial relationship with the Father and as we bring down the evil strongholds of the devil with our prayers (The-Victory-of-Jesus-Empowers-Us). Once we have entered into this relationship of empowerment we can stand before the Lord adorned with the good works done in the name of Jesus His Son. It is at this time that we become ready to move on to the next level of relationship with God, a relationship of covenant (Jesus-is-the-Ark-of-the-New-Covenant). It is in the covenant relationship that the bride and the bridegroom can become one.

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When will the Anointing Come for Service in Ministry?

Filed under: Brazen Laver, Jesus, Jesus the Altar of Burnt Offerings, Jesus the Brazen Laver, Jesus the Holy Place, Jesus the Tabernacle, Jesus the Tabernacle Courtyard, Ministry, Tabernacle, Tabernacle Courtyard, The Alter of Burnt Offerings, The Holy Of Holies, The Way — Leave a comment
August 1, 2009

When will the Anointing Come for Service in Ministry?

I had a question that asked when the anointing would come in support of ministry. As I though this answer may have a general interest I provide it here for everyone.

The anointing comes in support of our service in doing God’s will. This web site does a couple of things that will help you in finding the answers to your questions.

First it helps us to better understand Jesus by looking at Tabernacle, which is prophetic of Him in every way.

The Tabernacle Courtyard

The Tabernacle Courtyard

Secondly, it helps us to understand our walk with God by closely looking at the Tabernacle and the life of Jesus. What we find there is that the Tabernacle is divided into three compartments and they are called the Tabernacle Courtyard, the Holy Place and the Most Holy Place.

The Chanbers of the Tabernacle

The Chanbers of the Tabernacle

Each chamber resents a type of relationship that we can have with God and since these chambers can be entered in only one sequence our relationship with God therefore must grow progressively as we seek to become more like our savior Jesus.

This first compartment (the Courtyard) is where a relationship of “grace” is achieved. It is here that a lamb was sacrificed and burned on a brazen altar for the forgiveness of the sins of the people.

The Tabernacle Courtyard

The Lamb Brought to the Tabernacle Courtyard

Jesus of course was the perfect Lamb who gave His life for the forgiveness of our sins. In addition, the Courtyard is a place of preparation of the priest who desire a more intimate ministry with God. This preparation was manifest at the Brazen Laver where the priests would purify themselves prior entering into ministry in the Holy Place.

Since the Laver surface had a mirror like quality the priest could see his reflection as he washed in the Laver. As they washed they believed that they saw themselves as God saw them. As a result their hidden faults were uncovered and they earnestly contemplated their worthiness to enter into a closer relationship with God in the Holy Place. This reflection resulted n a change of heart, which is necessary to enter into the service of almighty God in the Holy Place.

Priest in the Holy Place of the Tabernacle

Priest in the Holy Place of the Tabernacle

Our posting prove that Jesus is the fulfillment of the Tabernacles prophesy and that He is the Tabernacle Courtyard, the Brazen Altar, the Lamb and the Brazen Laver. He is our Brazen Laver in that by looking intently at His life, His words and His actions we can see ourselves as God sees us. By finding scripture that identifies these things and asking the Holy Spirit for help we can see how our actions, words and lives stack up to His. This could give us much to contemplate prior to launching out into a ministry.

I mention all of this because the Holy Place is where our pathway is enlightened, our relationship with the Father is matured and we become empowered for spiritual warfare, which is the anointing for God’s service.

I believe that reviewing the following links can explain all of this in more detail:

The-Tabernacle-Courtyard-is-Prophetic-of-Jesus-a-Review

The-Brazen-Laver

The-Baptism-of-Jesus-and-the-Brazen-Laver

Being-Born-of-the-Spirit-and-the-Brazen-Laver

Jesus-gives-the-Living-Water-of-the-Laver

True-Baptism-Reveled-in-the-Reflections-of-the-Laver

Lessons-from-Jesus-our-Brazen-Laver

Jesus-the-Laver-Washes-His-Disciples-Feet

Jesus-Gave-us-all-he-had

Jesus-the-Brazen-Laver-Reveals-our-Destiny

Reflections-of-Jesus-Regarding-Service

Jesus-the-Laver-Teaches-do-what-ever-it-takes

Jesus-the-Laver-Teaches-Disregard-Status

Jesus-the-Laver-Teaches-Lead-by-Example

Jesus-the-Laver-Teaches-Personally-Touch-People

Jesus-our-Laver-Teaches-that-we-will-be-Tested

Yes, I will pray for you. Please keep me posted on your progress and otherwise let me know if you have any other questions or concerns.

May God bless you in all ways to spread the word of His Son to all of India.

Papa Joe Gordon

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The Tabernacle Courtyard Is Prophetic of Jesus – a review

Filed under: Brazen Laver, Jesus, Jesus the Altar of Burnt Offerings, Jesus the Brazen Laver, Jesus the Tabernacle, Jesus the Tabernacle Courtyard, Tabernacle, Tabernacle Courtyard, The Alter of Burnt Offerings — 7 Comments
February 10, 2009

 

The Morning Star Rising on the First Day

Read my amazing true life story about how the forces of good and evil battle for my life and the vision that God has given me. My book, “Possess the Vision,” communicates my supernatural experiences and as a result, provides insight into the realm of the spiritual warfare that is raging for our souls and our purpose. This is a must read for all Christians. Learn more by following this link: Possess-the-Vision-at-Amazon

The Tabernacle Courtyard Is Prophetic of Jesus

 

The Tabernacle Courtyard

The Tabernacle Courtyard

In our previous postings we have presented the Tabernacle Courtyard as prophetic of the Jesus in that it foretells the life of Christ. We will now continue with our larger objective of substantiating the Tabernacle and its contents as prophetic of Christ Jesus.

Jesus and Moses at the Transfiguration Discuss the Fulfillment of the Tabernacles Prophesy

Jesus and Moses at the Transfiguration Discuss the Fulfillment of the Tabernacles Prophesy

To initiate this quest we will start with a review of all of the material we have presented to date, which addresses the Tabernacle Courtyard and demonstrates that Jesus is the Way to a relationship of grace with God.


 

The foundation for all of the work we will present on this subject is based upon the, “I am the Way, the Truth and the Life,” statement made by Jesus. What we have revealed is that these names, (the way, the truth and the life), are also used to name the entrances into the Tabernacle chambers. “The Way,” for example is the name of the gate that leads into the Tabernacle Courtyard.

The Tabernacle Gate - The Way

The Tabernacle Gate - The Way

The Truth is the name of the door into the Holy Place,

The Brazen Laver In Front Of "The Way" To The Holy Place

and in like manner, “the Life,” is the passage into the Most Holy place of God. For a more detailed explanation of all of this please follow this link Jesus-is-the-Way-the-Truth-and-the-Life.

Priest in the Holy Place of the Tabernacle

Priest in the Holy Place of the Tabernacle

Another part of the work covered to date is that the Tabernacle is the place where God promised to dwell with His people in accordance with the covenant He made with them. Given that the chambers of the Tabernacle must be entered in sequence, what we have uncovered is that a progressively intimate relationship with God is achieved as each new chamber is entered. So for example, the Tabernacle Courtyard is the chamber where a relationship of grace (forgiveness of sin) is achieved. The Holy Place brings us to a relationship of enlightenment (purpose and path) and empowerment (spiritual warfare), while the Most Holy place offers a relationship of covenant (dwelling under the protection of God).

To date our investigation of the Tabernacle has been limited to looking at the Courtyard, the first of the three chambers of the Tabernacle. As a part of this investigation we have presented the objects found in the Courtyard, including their purpose and attributes and correlated them to the words and deeds of Jesus. So, for example, we found that grace is achieved in the Courtyard by way of blood sacrifice, in which a Lamb is slaughtered and then burned on the Brazen Alter (see details at Jesus-the-Brazen-Laver.) We then associated Jesus, the “Lamb of God,” to this object by correlating it to His sacrifice and death on the cross.

Jesus on the Cross Sheds His Blood

This sacrifice was required for the forgiveness of our sins. It also substantiates that Jesus as the fulfillment of the Brazen Altar and therefore the Courtyard of the Tabernacle. This correlation should also help us to better understand what Jesus meant when He said “I am The Way,” which means that He is the way of a relationship of grace. For more information about this please go to Jesus-is-the-Way and Becoming-like-Jesus-the-Way.

Our investigation of the Courtyard also presented an examination of the Brazen Laver, which is the other object found in the Tabernacle Courtyard (for more details go to Jesus-the-Brazen-Laver.) The Laver is a water basin used for purification prior to entering the next chamber (the Holy Place) and a closer relationship with God. The process of washing at the Laver required the priest to bend over it and as he did, he would see his reflection in its polished surface. The priests believed that when they looked into the Laver, that they saw themselves as God saw them. As a result their hidden faults were uncovered and they earnestly contemplated their worthiness to enter into a closer relationship with God in the Holy Place. This reflection resulted in a change in heart, which is necessary to enter into the Holy Place.

We then connected the function and attributes of the Laver with the life and words of Jesus. We used the baptism of Jesus in the Jordan as a fulfillment of prophesy of the Laver (for more information go to the-Laver-and-the-Holy-Spirit-of-Jesus.)

John Baptizes Jesus - Making Straight The Way Of The Lord

John Baptizes Jesus - Making Straight The Way Of The Lord

We also saw how the washing His disciple’s feet became a reflection of their readiness to enter into His ministry. In general we conclude that all of the words and deeds of Jesus are occasions for reflection and opportunities for change in preparation for ministry. Therefore our reading of scriptures that contain the words and deeds of Jesus are opportunities for reflection about our nature and how we stack up to in comparison to Jesus, our model of perfection. These occasions are opportunities to conform our heart and mind to Him as we pursue a more intimate relationship to our God. For additional information about this go to Applying-the-attributes-of-Jesus-our-Laver.

So, by passing through “the Way” and into the Tabernacle Courtyard we find that our sins are forgiven and that our nature is changed as we seek to move into a deeper relationship with the Lord in the Holy Place. In a like manner we find that by passing through Jesus that our sins are forgiven and our nature is changed as we read His word and seek to become like Him. When this metamorphosis is complete we become ready to move to the next level by entering the passageway called “The Truth.”

 

The Truth leads us into the Holy Place of God where our pathway is enlightened, our relationship with the Father is matured and we become empowered for spiritual warfare. Now we are ready to introduce you to, “Jesus the Truth” in our subsequent postings.  

 

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Jesus Our Laver Teaches That We Will Be Tested

Filed under: Jesus, Jesus the Brazen Laver, Jesus the Tabernacle, Jesus the Tabernacle Courtyard — 3 Comments
February 2, 2009

Read my amazing true life story about how the forces of good and evil battle for my life and the vision that God has given me. My book, “Possess the Vision,” communicates my supernatural experiences and as a result, provides insight into the realm of the spiritual warfare that is raging for our souls and our purpose. This is a must read for all Christians. Learn more by following this link: Possess-the-Vision-at-Amazon

Jesus Our Laver Teaches That We Will Be Tested

Jesus was baptized John in Jordan River by John:

Then Jesus came from Galilee to John at the Jordan to be baptized by him. And John tried to prevent Him, saying, “I need to be baptized by You, and are You coming to me?” But Jesus answered and said to him, “Permit it to be so now, for thus it is fitting for us to fulfill all righteousness.” Then he allowed Him. When He had been baptized, Jesus came up immediately from the water; and behold, the heavens were opened to Him, and He saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove and alighting upon Him. And suddenly a voice came from heaven, saying, “This is My beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased.” (Matt 3: 13-17)

John Baptizes Jesus - Making Straight The Way Of The Lord

John Baptizes Jesus - Making Straight The Way Of The Lord


I often wondered why Jesus had to be baptized since He was without sin. The answer is revealed however, when we look at the Tabernacles’ Brazen Laver and find that the priests were required to wash at the Brazen Laver prior to entering into the most sacred ministry in the Holy Place of God. Therefore, Jesus was simply fulfilling the Tabernacle’s prophesy by being baptized in prior to entering into His most sacred ministry.

This conclusion is further reinforced when one looks at Israel having to cross the Jordan before it could enter into its ministry of possessing the Promised Land. This battle, which is symbolic of our spiritual warfare, required that Israel destroy the evil people, religion, places of worship and false gods found in this land. Jesus is immediately led into battle as we soon find out.

Immediately after receiving the baptism of the Holy Spirit, Jesus is led by angels into the wilderness where He is attacked by Satan after forty days and nights for deprivation (fasting made Jesus weak). Satan tempted Jesus with everything that he had in an effort to get Him to deny his purpose and his God given ministry.

Then Jesus was led up by the Spirit into the wilderness to be tempted by the devil. And when He had fasted forty days and forty nights, afterward He was hungry. Now when the tempter came to Him, he said, “If You are the Son of God, command that these stones become bread.”

But He answered and said, “It is written, ‘Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceeds from the mouth of God.’”
Then the devil took Him up into the holy city, set Him on the pinnacle of the temple, and said to Him, “If You are the Son of God, throw Yourself down. For it is written:

‘He shall give His angels charge over you,’ and, ‘In their hands they shall bear you up, lest you dash your foot against a stone.’

Jesus said to him, “It is written again, ‘You shall not tempt the LORD your God.’ Again, the devil took Him up on an exceedingly high mountain, and showed Him all the kingdoms of the world and their glory. And he said to Him, “All these things I will give You if You will fall down and worship me.”

Then Jesus said to him, “Away with you, Satan! For it is written, ‘You shall worship the LORD your God, and Him only you shall serve.’ Then the devil left Him, and behold, angels came and ministered to Him. (Matt 4: 1-11)

Jesus is Tempted by the Devil

Jesus is Tempted by the Devil

In denying the temptations of Satan, Jesus proved that He is worthy of ministry. He defeated Satan by resisting all of the temptations of this world and by remaining true to His Father’s mission for Him. He successfully resisted the temptations of the flesh, of power, of riches and fame. He chose the path of the Spirit of God in favor of the path of the flesh.

Please understand that if you are to enter into the ministry that God has created you to achieve that you will enter into spiritual warfare and you will be attacked. You must stay strong, remain pure and know that your prayers and words are the weapons against the enemy. Know that the enemy is attempting to destroy your God given purpose and mission.

Know the Scriptures

Get an understanding of what Jesus did, what He valued, what He said, what He prophesied, and who He proclaimed Himself to be. Memorize the words of Jesus that you find uplifting. Ask the Holy Spirit to help you understand the scriptures so that Jesus is revealed to you. Most importantly be ready to use these scriptures when the time comes. This preparatory work must be done at Jesus our Brazen Laver (as we have previously communicated.)

Take Time to Meditate and Reflect

Reflect on the state of your heart and your life. Bring to mind the actions and words of Jesus and ask how do His actions compare to those of my own life? How could I have done things differently?

Ask the Holy Spirit for Help

We need God’s help to achieve the kind of change we are looking for. We simply cannot achieve this kind of change on our own. Seek the Holy Spirit (who comes to us as we purify ourselves in the words and deeds of Jesus, our Brazen Laver.) and bring the issues you are dealing with to Him. Pray for positive change in the name of Jesus.

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Jesus The Laver Teaches – Personally Touch People

Filed under: Jesus, Jesus the Brazen Laver, Jesus the Tabernacle, Jesus the Tabernacle Courtyard — 2 Comments
January 31, 2009

Read my amazing true life story about how the forces of good and evil battle for my life and the vision that God has given me. My book, “Possess the Vision,” communicates my supernatural experiences and as a result, provides insight into the realm of the spiritual warfare that is raging for our souls and our purpose. This is a must read for all Christians. Learn more by following this link: Possess-the-Vision-at-Amazon

Jesus the Laver Teaches – Personally Touch People

Based on our previous postings regarding the Laver, we have uncovered a number of key attributes of Christ Jesus. Our intention is to use them as the model of perfection of what we are called to become. As we progress in this section, we plan on using these key attributes to help us better understand how our own actions and decisions compare to the pure light of Jesus’ life, hoping that they will reveal our hidden faults. As with any scripture that teaches us about Jesus, we have the opportunity to meditate on these stories and ask the Holy Spirit to enlighten us to the truth. When we find similar circumstances in our own life we should ask ourselves, “What actions did I take (or not take) and what needs to change for me to be more like Jesus?”

The Holy Spirit at the Baptixm of Jesus

The Holy Spirit at the Baptism of Jesus

As mentioned in our previous posts, cleansing at the Brazen Laver was a prerequisite for entering into the Holy place of God.

The-Brazen-Laver

The Brazen Laver In Front Of The Holy Place

The Brazen Laver In Front Of The Holy Place

This cleansing is necessary to enter the Holy place of God because it is a place of relationship with the Father, enlightenment from God, and victory in spiritual warfare. The physical washing at the Tabernacle Laver is symbolic of the spiritual cleansing necessary for us to enter into a more intimate relationship with Jesus. Therefore, we must focus on Jesus our Laver to clearly see ourselves in His light, so that we may invoke the Holy Spirit and achieve the purification necessary for a closer relationship with God. Once achieved, we will find a loving relationship that will enlighten our pathway and empower us for the ministry He has chosen for us. This purification can come only through Christ Jesus because He is the one living Tabernacle that came down from heaven, and He is the fulfillment of the Tabernacles’ Laver.

In prior postings we spent quite a bit of time looking at the actions and words of Jesus that support our claim that He is the fulfillment of Tabernacle prophesy. It may be a good idea to review these postings as some points in them are reference in this document.

Being-Born-Of-The-Spirit-And-The-Brazen-Laver

Jesus-Gives-The-Living-Water-Of-The-Laver

True-Baptism-Reveled-In-The-Reflections-Of-The-Laver

Lessons-From-Jesus-Our-Brazen-Laver

The-Baptism-Of-Jesus-And-The-Brazen-Laver

So now we will proceed with our list of the attributes of Jesus that pertain to the reflections of Jesus our Brazen Laver. I hope that you will be able to use this section on “Jesus the Brazen Laver Teaches – Personally Touch Other People” to better understand who Jesus is and to also apply the model of Jesus the Laver to your life.

Personally Touch People

In washing His disciple’s feet, Jesus touched each disciple.

Jesus Washes Disciples Feet

Jesus Washes Disciples Feet

In fact, the disciples were being touched continuously by the teaching and demonstration of spiritual truth in the ministry of Jesus.

Jesus And The Multitude

Jesus And The Multitude

They were with Him constantly as He ministered to others. They listened as He taught others, and they witnessed the miracles He performed.

jesus-heals-the-leper

In addition, they received the benefit of His personal explanations, teachings, and warnings regarding the Scribes and the Pharisees. They witnessed Jesus’ special relationship with the Father in the Transfiguration on the mountain and in the ascension of Jesus into Heaven.

The Transfigured Jesus With Moses And Elijah

The Transfigured Jesus With Moses And Elijah

The disciples had to be touched by these events as they witnessed the glory of God demonstrated on earth. The Bible asks us to follow in Jesus’ foot steps. Therefore we must touch people personally. Not just in the laying on of hands, but in stepping out in faith and expecting to witness the glory of God demonstrated by the power of the Holy Spirit right here on earth. There should be healing of the sick, the resurrection of the dead, miraculous provisions for the poor, and miracles of all kinds demonstrated for all to see God’s love for His people. God’s heartfelt desire is to wipe away every tear and provide every good thing for His people.

Jesus The Alpha And the Omega

Jesus The Alpha And the Omega

After all, the Father gave His own Son. Why would He spare anything else for those who love Him?

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Jesus the Laver Teaches – Lead by Example

Filed under: Jesus, Jesus the Brazen Laver, Jesus the Tabernacle, Jesus the Tabernacle Courtyard — 2 Comments
January 28, 2009

Read my amazing true life story about how the forces of good and evil battle for my life and the vision that God has given me. My book, “Possess the Vision,” communicates my supernatural experiences and as a result, provides insight into the realm of the spiritual warfare that is raging for our souls and our purpose. This is a must read for all Christians. Learn more by following this link: Possess-the-Vision-at-Amazon

Jesus the Laver Teaches – Lead by Example

Based on our previous postings regarding the Laver, we have uncovered a number of key attributes of Christ Jesus. Our intention is to use them as the model of perfection of what we are called to become. As we progress in this section, we plan on using these key attributes to help us better understand how our own actions and decisions compare to the pure light of Jesus’ life, hoping that they will reveal our hidden faults. As with any scripture that teaches us about Jesus, we have the opportunity to meditate on these stories and ask the Holy Spirit to enlighten us to the truth. When we find similar circumstances in our own life we should ask ourselves, “What actions did I take (or not take) and what needs to change for me to be more like Jesus?”

The Holy Spirit at the Baptixm of Jesus

The Holy Spirit at the Baptism of Jesus

As mentioned in our previous posts, cleansing at the Brazen Laver was a prerequisite for entering into the Holy place of God.

The-Brazen-Laver

The Brazen Laver In Front Of The Holy Place

The Brazen Laver In Front Of The Holy Place

This cleansing is necessary to enter the Holy place of God because it is a place of relationship with the Father, enlightenment from God, and victory in spiritual warfare. The physical washing at the Tabernacle Laver is symbolic of the spiritual cleansing necessary for us to enter into a more intimate relationship with Jesus. Therefore, we must focus on Jesus our Laver to clearly see ourselves in His light, so that we may invoke the Holy Spirit and achieve the purification necessary for a closer relationship with God. Once achieved, we will find a loving relationship that will enlighten our pathway and empower us for the ministry He has chosen for us. This purification can come only through Christ Jesus because He is the one living Tabernacle that came down from heaven, and He is the fulfillment of the Tabernacles’ Laver.

In prior postings we spent quite a bit of time looking at the actions and words of Jesus that support our claim that He is the fulfillment of Tabernacle prophesy. It may be a good idea to review these postings as some points in them are reference in this document.

Being-Born-Of-The-Spirit-And-The-Brazen-Laver

Jesus-Gives-The-Living-Water-Of-The-Laver

True-Baptism-Reveled-In-The-Reflections-Of-The-Laver

Lessons-From-Jesus-Our-Brazen-Laver

The-Baptism-Of-Jesus-And-The-Brazen-Laver

So now we will proceed with our list of the attributes of Jesus that pertain to the reflections of Jesus our Brazen Laver. I hope that you will be able to use this section on “Jesus the Brazen Laver Teaches – Lead By Example” to better understand who Jesus is and to also apply the model of Jesus the Laver to your life.

We initiate this topic with a teaching that draws a parallel to Jesus our Laver in an interesting way. Here is the scripture:

For if anyone is a hearer of the word and not a doer, he is like a man observing his natural face in a mirror; for he observes himself, goes away, and immediately forgets what kind of man he was (James 1:23 – 24 )

Of course we have been discussing that by looking into Jesus our Laver (the words and actions of Jesus) we see ourselves as God sees us. Therefore, we are to conform our hearts to the heart of Jesus in a similar way that Jesus conformed His heart to that of His Father. It is insufficient to know that there is an nonconformity and to do nothing.

Jesus teaches us to lead by example and by personally touching people. We will amplify the statements below. Notice how this leadership starts with a communication and then is followed up with a personal demonstration that touches them deeply.

Jesus and Disciples on the Road

Jesus and Disciples on the Road


Jesus spoke to His disciples about who would be the greatest in the following passage:

Then a dispute arose among them as to which of them would be greatest. And Jesus, perceiving the thought of their heart, took a little child and set him by Him, and said to them, “Whoever receives this little child in My name receives Me; and whoever receives Me receives Him who sent Me. For he who is least among you all will be great.” (Luke 9:46-48)

Let the Children Come to Me

Let the Children Come to Me


But it apparently had no effect because they have a similar discussion prior to the last supper:

Now there was also a dispute among them, as to which of them should be considered the greatest. And He said to them, “The kings of the Gentiles exercise lordship over them, and those who exercise authority over them are called ‘benefactors.’ But not so among you; on the contrary, he who is greatest among you, let him be as the younger, and he who governs as he who serves. For who is greater, he who sits at the table, or he who serves? Is it not he who sits at the table? Yet I am among you as the One who serves. Luke (22: 24-27)

But Jesus then demonstrates true greatness to them:

Jesus Washes Disciples Feet

Jesus Washes Disciples Feet


Now before the Feast of the Passover, when Jesus knew that His hour had come that He should depart from this world to the Father, having loved His own who were in the world, He loved them to the end.


And supper being ended, the devil having already put it into the heart of Judas Iscariot, Simon’s son, to betray Him, Jesus, knowing that the Father had given all things into His hands, and that He had come from God and was going to God, rose from supper and laid aside His garments, took a towel and girded Himself. After that, He poured water into a basin and began to wash the disciples’ feet, and to wipe them with the towel with which He was girded. Then He came to Simon Peter. And Peter said to Him, “Lord, are You washing my feet?”


Jesus answered and said to him, “What I am doing you do not understand now, but you will know after this.”
Peter said to Him, “You shall never wash my feet!”
Jesus answered him, “If I do not wash you, you have no part with Me.” Simon Peter said to Him, “Lord, not my feet only, but also my hands and my head!” Jesus said to him, “He who is bathed needs only to wash his feet, but is completely clean; and you are clean, but not all of you.” For He knew who would betray Him; therefore He said, “You are not all clean.”


So when He had washed their feet, taken His garments, and sat down again, He said to them, “Do you know what I have done to you? You call Me Teacher and Lord, and you say well, for so I am. If I then, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also ought to wash one another’s feet. For I have given you an example, that you should do as I have done to you. Most assuredly, I say to you, a servant is not greater than his master; nor is he who is sent greater than he who sent him. If you know these things, blessed are you if you do them. John (13:1-17)

Therefore, it took a personal demonstration to drive home the point (in washing their feet). Jesus’ disciples must have been humbled by how radically He lowered Himself to serve them. They must have been personally touched as He personally ministered to each and every one of them. Just think about what they must have been thinking while He washed their feet. They would have had to realize at that moment, just how far they had fallen short of the will of God in their behavior. The message from Jesus is clear, He did not come to be served but to serve, and He wants His disciples to do the same. His actions demonstrated the will of God. He spoke the truth and He did what He told others He would do. He came to serve others, which was exemplified not only in the washing of feet but in His ultimate sacrifice on the cross as well.

Disciples Carry Jesus Down From The Cross

Disciples Carry Jesus Down From The Cross


Become a Model of Jesus for Others

Jesus was a model of perfection for His disciples and for each and every one of us as well. Should we not do the same as well? This means that our lives are to be a Godly example for others. The things we do and say must demonstrate the love of Jesus to others. We cannot hide our God given light under a basket, but rather place it in the center of the house where all can see. This is as adequately communicated by Jesus in the following passage:

Nor do they light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a lamp stand, and it gives light to all who are in the house. Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven. (Matthew 5:15 – 16)

The Transfigured Jesus With Moses

The Transfigured Jesus With Moses

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