Jesus is the Firstfruits - continuing a Varner perspective

JESUS: THE REAL FIRSTFRUITS

Last week's chronicle talked about Jesus: the real Prophet. This week I want to clarify a current concept and show you that He is the real Firstfruits.
There is much talk and teaching throughout the churches today concerning the subject of FIRSTFRUITS. If someone wants to give God his first paycheck of the New Year or the first profits on a new business, that is right and good. Unfortunately, some faddish preaches have jumped on the firstfruits bandwagon to pad their own coffers; for them, the concept of firstfruits is a "new" way to bring in more money. You can't make a law out of firstfruits (which deals with much more than finances)-there's not enough Bible in the New Testament doctrinal epistles to honestly do that. What is the answer?
That's simple. JESUS is the real Firstfruits!
Exodus 23:19, KJV The first of the FIRSTFRUITS of thy land thou shalt bring..
Proverbs 3:9, KJV Honour the LORD.with the FIRSTFRUITS of all thine increase:
The Hebrew word for "FIRSTFRUITS" in Exodus 23:19 means, "the first-fruits of the crop; the first grain and fruit; the firstborn." A different word for "FIRSTFRUITS" is used in Proverbs 3:9, and it means, "the first, in place, time, order or rank (specifically, a firstfruit); beginning, head, chief, or choice part."
Revelation 14:4, KJV .These are they which follow the Lamb whithersoever He goeth.being the FIRSTFRUITS unto God and to the Lamb (compare Jas. 1:18).
The comparative Greek word aparche means, "a beginning of sacrifice, the (Jewish) first-fruit; firstling, the first portion." Jesus is the real FIRSTFRUITS.
The Pattern Son always put the Father and His will first (Lk. 22:42), and then encouraged all His followers to do the same (Matt. 6:33). The Scriptures reveal Jesus to be the FIRSTFRUITS of them that sleep or die (1 Cor. 15:20-23); the FIRSTBORN among many brethren (Rom. 8:29; compare Col. 1:15-18); the FIRST BEGOTTEN from the dead (Rev. 1:5); the BEGINNING of the (new) creation of God (Rev. 3:14); and the Alpha, the FIRST (Rev. 1:11,17; 22:13). Jesus is the antitype of the Old Testament "sheaf of the FIRSTFRUITS" (Lev. 23:9-14)-this representative sheaf was the "forerunner" sheaf (Heb. 6:19-20). Waved before the Father in His resurrection and ascension, Jesus was accepted for us all (Jn. 20: 16-17 with Eph. 1:6-7).
Is your whole lifestyle a firstfruits offering unto Jesus? Are you giving the choice part of your time, your day, unto the Lord? Are you seeking first His Kingdom and His righteousness, or does God get the leftovers? Do you serve Him and put Him first?
FURTHER RESOURCE: The section on Biblical Economics and Stewardship in my book, The Tabernacle is Jesus, Volume One, available at http://www.kelleyvarner.org/newsletters/clicks.asp?queueid=26948&relationid=315332&url=http://www.kvmonlinestore.org/.

Jesus Is "The all in all"

Greetings friends and family.

The new year has been a great opportunity to grow greater faith in the kingdom of God then ever before. No matter the circumstance or situation your faith in The Lord Jesus Christ is your greatest treasure. Store up more faith as you pass through whatever darkness puts before you. Stir up your faith at every occasion, and see the mighty hand of God deliver you through all!

I want to share an email I have received from a true bible teacher who I have known of for over 25 years.


THE KVM Chronicle
February 9, 2009

JESUS: THE REAL APOSTLE
Last week's chronicle introduced the real Jesus. This week I want to talk to you about Him as the real Apostle.
Hebrews 3:1, KJV Wherefore, holy brethren, partakers of the heavenly calling, consider the APOSTLE and High Priest of our profession, Christ Jesus;
Matthew 28:18, KJV .all POWER is given unto ME (Jesus) in heaven and in earth.
The apostle is God's AUTHORITY. The Lord Jesus Christ is the Chief or First Apostle. He has been given all power and is the highest authority on earth. He was sent from the Father, fully authorized to bear the Name of the "I AM."
All authority centers in Jesus. The Greek word for "power (authority)" in Matthew 28:18 is exousia, and it means, "executive right, privilege; (subjectively) force, capacity, competency, freedom; (objectively) mastery; or (concretely) magistrate, potentate, token of control; a delegated influence."
Jesus, the Head of the Church (Eph. 1:20-23), has been given all executive authority in heaven and on earth. He personifies the name El-Elyon, the Most High God, the Possessor of heaven and earth (Gen. 14:18-22; with Mk. 5:7 and Heb. 7:1). The name of Jesus is higher than any other (Phil. 2:5-11).
This essential truth is the basis of the Great Commission (Matt. 28:18-20). The Gospel of John especially reflects Jesus' apostleship, as He was "sent" (apostello) from Heaven by the Father to accomplish His will and purpose (Jn. 3:16-17; 5:36-38; 6:29,57; 7:29; 8:42; 10:36; 11:42; 17:3-25; 20:21). All authority, whether domestic, ecclesiastical, or civil, is delegated authority.His authority. The One who divided the five loaves (Matt. 14:17-19) ascended into Heaven and divided HIMSELF into five ministries (Eph. 4:8-11):
1. Jesus is the Apostle (Heb. 3:1).
2. Jesus is the Prophet (Acts 3:22-23).
3. Jesus is the Evangelist (Lk. 4:18).
4. Jesus is the Pastor, our Good Shepherd (Jn. 10:11).
5. Jesus is the Teacher (Jn. 3:2).
Jesus is now operating through these five ministry gifts in the earth throughout the nations, and will continue to do so "till" the purpose of Ephesians 4:12-13 is fulfilled.
Jesus is the real Apostle. Does He exercise authority over your time, your talent, and your treasure?
FURTHER RESOURCE: Chapters Five of my book, Whose Right It Is, available at http://www.kvmonlinestore.org

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I trust this blessed you.

Brother Kevin Brown
pastorkevinbrown@aol.com