# Song of Solomon Study # SOS 1:1 Introduction Preached: October 11, 1978 by James R. Reynolds, Sr. > Song of Solomon 1:1 — The song of songs, which is Solomon's ## INTRODUCTION TO THE SONG OF SOLOMON ### Read the Song of Solomon Song of Solomon cannot be approached with natural understanding because the Song of Solomon is a spiritual book. If you read the Song of Solomon from the natural view, you are going to have mixed emotions. You will have very strange opinions. This has happened before, but I trust that before you form any deep opinions that you would listen to the Bible lessons and put all the pieces together before you pass judgment. If you hear only a part of a conversation, then you could get a total different picture or impression of what was meant then if you had heard the whole conversation. Am I right? It would be well for you to read the Song of Solomon before you continue with this study. There are only eight very short chapters; it is not a very long book. You could probably read the whole book in less than forty-five minutes. This will provide you with at least a surface understanding of the book. You will not understand all that is there after the first time you read it. A lot of people in their whole lifetime do not ever attempt to understand the Song of Solomon. They know it is in the Bible and that is pretty much it, and some I think are even ashamed it is in the Bible. The Song of Solomon is not something to be ashamed of; it is a beautiful book when rightly interpreted and understood. > Song of Solomon 1:1-7 — The song of songs, which is Solomon's. 2 ¶ Let him kiss me with the kisses of his mouth: for thy love is better than wine. 3 Because of the savour of thy good ointments thy name is as ointment poured forth, therefore do the virgins love thee. 4 Draw me, we will run after thee: the king hath brought me into his chambers: we will be glad and rejoice in thee, we will remember thy love more than wine: the upright love thee. 5 I am black, but comely, O ye daughters of Jerusalem, as the tents of Kedar, as the curtains of Solomon. 6 Look not upon me, because I am black, because the sun hath looked upon me: my mother's children were angry with me; they made me the keeper of the vineyards; but mine own vineyard have I not kept. 7 ¶ Tell me, O thou whom my soul loveth, where thou feedest, where thou makest thy flock to rest at noon: for why should I be as one that turneth aside by the flocks of thy companions? I am going to simply give you an introduction to the book of Song of Solomon, and give you some background and foundational material in relation to the Song. I am doing this to get you ready for the exegesis over the text itself. We will spend quite amount of time with the exposition of this book. We will without question be months on this study. That might scare you. "Oh, I am going to be listening to the Song of Solomon for months?" I am sure if the Holy Spirit will grant this teacher and preacher His anointing, when we get to the end of the book you will be sad and say, "Oh, I wish there was more." Now, if it is left up to me alone, you will wish before tonight is over that we were not going into the book of Song of Solomon. Before you begin to study this book, and or listen to these messages and or study these notes read the book in it's entirety at least three times, in order to gain a surface understanding of this wonderful book called the Song of Solomon ### The Language of this Book Many Christians live their entire lives without reading Song of Solomon. They know it is in the Bible, but they appear to be ashamed of its presence. It is a beautiful book and nothing to be ashamed of rightly interpreted and rightly understood. Some Bible scholars believe that this book does not belong in the Canon of the Bible, and many do not believe that the Song of Solomon is an inspired book. All they see is a demonstration of a love affair—an earthly feeling between a woman and her lover. I am believing that the Holy Spirit has heard prayer and is this includes Bible scholars, Bible interpreters, some commentators, and those that have a made a deep study of the Bible but not really having a deep understanding of the Word of God, do not feel that the book of Solomon even belongs in the canon of the Bible. There are a lot of people that do not believe that this book was an inspired book, and it ought to have no place in the Holy Word of God. The reason why is that it appears to them as nothing more than a demonstration of a love affair—nothing more than feelings between a woman and her lover. Because they feel it is nothing more than a story talking of earthly love, they totally miss the purpose of it; therefore, they say it should not be in the Bible. The reason why I say all of this is to prepare you for some of the expressions that are found in the Song of Solomon. This is not an account of earthly feelings or expressions, but a relationship that is Heavenly and Holy and not as a story of the natural. Prepare yourself for some expressions that are found in this book. Again these expressions are not of the carnal nature or of "Earthly Expressions," but in the Holy of Holies, beyond the Outer Court, beyond the Inner Court beyond the Holy place, beyond the Veil in the Most Holy Place, here Christ is manifesting His divine affection for you not as an earthly thing but Holy and Heavenly. This is a beautiful book; it is a spiritual book. ### We Need the Whole Loaf Of course we could say many things in relation to that, but the whole Bible itself is under attack in our day. The devil is very subtle. He's pretty much honeycombed the whole book. Ever see a piece of timber that looked like it had all of it shaped but if you ever put your foot on it it was all eaten out? It was deteriorated yet still holding its form. This is what has happened in many places to the Word of God. They have just , its all honeycombed, they have taken out this and they have taken out that set this aside and set that aside until you wonder what is left? But you know how much God has left behind for us saints? He preserved for us the **whole** loaf. It is all God's Word, even the Song of Songs. It is is God's Word and it has got life. We cannot afford to take out or edit any of the Scripture just because the language becomes difficult to understand. We should embrace the whole Word of God and through prayer, study and the ministry of the Holy Ghost endeavor to understand it. ### God Desires a Close Relationship with You This is not an account of earthly feelings or expressions, but a relationship that is Heavenly and Holy. This book is not a story of the natural but the the spiritual. With that in mind, prepare yourself for some expressions that are found in this book. Again, these expressions are not to be interpreted in a carnal context, but in a spiritual and holy context. In this book, Christ is manifesting His divine affection for you. #### Spend Time with Him Let me just share this with you if I can. If you love somebody, what is the most important thing if you really somebody? Yes, we do that we show that, but really the reason why we even do things for the one we love is because we want to see their reaction. WE love them so much, we do things for them because we love them, but the whole thing we just love to be with them. If you love somebody you just want to be with them. You can take a stick and beat them away and then they come back. I can remember when I was as just a little fellow, I could not say it was love, cause I do not know if little fellows know what love is all about, but I sure had a whole lot of feeling. A little girl lived up on the hill and I used to ride my bicycle in pouring down rain and I knew before I left my house that her momma or daddy would not let her go out of the house and they were not going to in any way let me in, but I would ride that bicycle I think it was over three miles many times in right pouring down rain just to ride by the house hoping I could see her and then turn around and ride all the way back home—puppy love. I was a just a little fellow and I thought my feelings, my feelings were involved. You can't get involved like that and not ride a bicycle in the pouring down rain. I tried in the winter, and I even tried to ride a bicycle on the slippery ground, and there was a neighbor next door. I use to go down and I didn't really care for that kid he was kind of "soft", but I used to go down there and play with him because it was right across the street from her and once in a while her dad would let her come over. I would spend hours waiting to see her. To give you an understanding of what I am trying to stay. God loves you. Did you hear what I said? God loves you. Is He just interested in doing something for you? He wants to be with you. He loves you. And there is only one thing that can stop him from being with you and do you know what that is? Self. The devil cannot stop Him. "Devil, get out of the way or I'll run right over you!" You will find all through this book God making advances to be with the one he loves. And you will find in the book revelations of our attitude towards his advances. - "Well, I'm a quite busy right now; he can wait a little while." - Or "I'm a little bit drowsy." - In one place she says, "I have already put off my coat and I am not going to get up now," But, when she finally made up her mind that she was going to get up and go he had decided he had already waited long enough. Just because he loves us does not mean he is always going to wait. No, he wants to feelings to be mutual. Did you ever try to love somebody that didn't love you? I do not know if you could call it love, but, again, I had a lot of feelings for someone and man they would not pay any attention to me. Finally I got disgusted and the more I took on that attitude they chased me around like a little puppy dog and I didn't' want them. My feelings had changed. **Let us not let his feelings change towards because were are occupied too busy.** #### Share with Him Somethings a loving husband and wife share with each other, are not shared with anyone else. God has some great things He wants to share with us, but we have to get close enough so He can share them with us. He desires to share divine secrets in the Spirit with those He truly Loves! John 15:15 #### Love Him Our Best He loves us, but how is our love for Him? We want to love Him with ALL, but if we are honest we often do hold reservations. What could be more important than having time for the Lord? The Lord Jesus Christ wants us as His people to Love Him with out any reservation. (Matthew 22:37; Mark 12:30; Luke 10:27; Deuteronomy 6:5; Deuteronomy 10:12; Deuteronomy 13:3; Deuteronomy 30:6) You don't have to be a monk or nun in order to love Him. You can be in fellowship with Him while you are busy. But if you are too busy to fellowship with Him, that is when we get in trouble. The Lord really Loves you. We cannot fully comprehend how much God loves us. You are Spiritually desired and loved more than you can comprehend. (1 John 3:16; 1 John 4:9-10) #### Love Him Exclusively You must know that the Lord loves you if you are going to understand this book. No one will Love you any more than Jesus Does God does not want the world to play around with you, nor you to play around with the world. We often get bit by the devil only because we have been fooling around with things a child of God should never touch. God is jealous for His people. [Exodus 20:5](/bible/search?q=Exodus%2020:5); [Exodus 34:14](/bible/search?q=Exodus%2034:14); [Exodus 4:24](/bible/search?q=Exodus%204:24); [Exodus 5:9](/bible/search?q=Exodus%205:9); [Exodus 6:15](/bible/search?q=Exodus%206:15); [Nahum 1:2](/bible/search?q=Nahum%201:2) > Song of Solomon 8:6 — Set me as a seal upon thine heart, as a seal upon thine arm: for love is strong as death; jealousy is cruel as the grave: the coals thereof are coals of fire, which hath a most vehement flame. ### Review Don't allow the Devil to honeycomb your understanding of the bible. Do you fully understand how much God wants and desires you? > Ephesians 1:3 — Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who hath blessed us with all spiritual blessings in heavenly places in Christ: **Spiritual Blessings in High Places** If you truly love someone, the most important thing that you can do is spend time with them. We must be making every effort to spend time with the Lord. God makes many advances toward the one He loves in this book. (Stay close to Jesus in the Spirit and He will help you keep your garment clean) **The Lord wants to express Himself to you!**\* He wants to Love you like you have never been loved before! \*\*He desires to share divine secrets in the Spirit with those He truly Loves! > John 15:15 — Henceforth I call you not servants; for the servant knoweth not what his lord doeth: but I have called you friends; for all things that I have heard of my Father I have made known unto you The Lord Jesus Christ wants us as His people to Love Him with out any reservation at all for ourselves. - With All Our Heart - With All Our Soul - With All Our Mind - With All Our Strength Matt. 22:37 Mk, 12:30, Lk. 10:27, Deut. 6:5, 10:12, 13:3, 30:6 **We are to be in fellowship with Him and one with another but never with worldiness.** > Acts 2:42 And they continued stedfastly in the apostles' doctrine and **fellowship**, and in breaking of bread, and in prayers > 1Co 1:9 God is faithful, by whom ye were called unto the **fellowship** of his Son Jesus Christ our Lord. > 1 John 1:3 — That which we have seen and heard declare we unto you, that ye also may have **fellowship** with us: and truly our **fellowship** is with the Father, and with his Son Jesus Christ. > 1 John 1:7 — But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have **fellowship** one with another, and the blood of Jesus Christ his Son cleanseth us from all sin. > 2 Corinthians 8:4 — Praying us with much intreaty that we would receive the gift, and take upon us the **fellowship** of the ministering to the saints. > Eph 3:9 — And to make all men see what is the **fellowship** of the mystery, which from the beginning of the world hath been hid in God, who created all things by Jesus Christ: **The Lord really Loves you. — You are Spiritually desired** God truly loves us more than we can comprehend. > 1 John 3:16 — Hereby perceive we the love of God, because he laid down his life for us: and we ought to lay down our lives for the brethren. > 1 John 4:9 — In this was manifested the love of God toward us, because that God sent his only begotten Son into the world, that we might live through him. > 1 John 4:10 — Herein is love, not that we loved God, but that he loved us, and sent his Son *to be* the propitiation for our sins. God does not want the world to play around with you, nor you to play around with the world. > Ex 20:5 Thou shalt not bow down thyself to them, nor serve them: for I the LORD thy God am a **jealous** God, visiting the iniquity of the fathers upon the children unto the third and fourth generation of them that hate me; > Ex 34:14 For thou shalt worship no other god: for the LORD, whose name is Jealous, is a **jealous** God: > Deuteronomy 4:24 For the LORD thy God is a consuming fire, even a **jealous** God. > De 5:9 Thou shalt not bow down thyself unto them, nor serve them: for I the LORD thy God am a **jealous** God, visiting the iniquity of the fathers upon the children unto the third and fourth generation of them that hate me, > De 6:15 (For the LORD thy God is a **jealous** God among you) lest the anger of the LORD thy God be kindled against thee, and destroy thee from off the face of the earth. > Nahum 1:2 God is **jealous**, and the LORD revengeth; the LORD revengeth, and is furious; the LORD will take vengeance on his adversaries, and he reserveth wrath for his enemies. > Song 8:6 Set me as a seal upon thine heart, as a seal upon thine arm: for love is strong as death; **jealousy** is cruel as the grave: the coals thereof are coals of fire, which hath a most vehement flame. You must know that the Lord loves you if you are going to understand this book. ***No one will Love you any more than Jesus Does*** ### There are three general lines of thought here in the Book. 1. The Relationship of Jehovah with Israel 2. The Relationship of Christ with His Church 3. The Relationship of Christ with His Bride #### 1. The Relationship of Jehovah with Israel — God's chosen people Some believe that this book is entirely an allegory that sets forth God's choice and guidance of Israel. This book is a revelation God's choice for Israel as a nation, God's guidance of Israel out of Egypt, God's providence over Israel in the wilderness and God's placing of them in the Land of Canaan awaiting the Messiah. There is a definite parallel with this book and the history of the Jews, but that is because Israel itself is a type. All God's dealings with Israel are typical and are given for our example and instruction. [Romans 15:4](/bible/search?q=Romans%2015:4); [1 Corinthians 10:11](/bible/search?q=1%20Corinthians%2010:11); [Hebrews 8:5](/bible/search?q=Hebrews%208:5) God loves Israel, but God does not love ONLY Israel. God's people are not born of natural Abraham, but they are born of spiritual Abraham—i.e., by faith. [Romans 9:8](/bible/search?q=Romans%209:8) As an overall view there is a likeness here. Israel is a type where you can find God dealing with His people > Romans 15:4 — For whatsoever things were written aforetime were written for our learning, that we through patience and comfort of the scriptures might have hope. > 1 Corinthians 10:11 — Now all these things happened unto them for ensamples: and they are written for our admonition, upon whom the ends of the world are come. > Hebrews 8:5 — Who serve unto the example and shadow of heavenly things, as Moses was admonished of God when he was about to make the tabernacle: for, See, saith he, *that* thou make all things according to the pattern shewed to thee in the mount. #### 2. The relationship of Christ with His Church This is probably the most popular opinion regarding this book. Most believe this book concerns a relationship with Christ and His Church. On the premise, the beginning of the Song coincides with the time just after the birth of Christ and its end relates to the end of the time of the Gentiles. The church is now in a state of waiting for the Lord to come back to meet his Church/Bride. I believe there are too many discrepancies created when we try to make the entire Body of the Church to be the Bride of Christ. This leads us to the third line of thought and the main one which we will follow in our study. #### 3. The relationship of Christ with His Bride Is the Church and the Bride the same thing? Is there a difference between the Church and the Bride? What is the difference? The Church is the Body of Christ and the Bride is only a part of that Body. The Bride is a fragment of the Church, like the rib that was taken out of Adam's side). The Bride will be taken out of the great Body of the Church. [Acts 15:14](/bible/search?q=Acts%2015:14); [Genesis 5:24](/bible/search?q=Genesis%205:24); [Luke 12:35-38](/bible/search?q=Luke%2012:35-38); [1 Thessalonians 3:13](/bible/search?q=1%20Thessalonians%203:13); [Matthew 25:1-13](/bible/search?q=Matthew%2025:1-13); [Revelation 19:9](/bible/search?q=Revelation%2019:9) > Genesis 2:22 And the rib, which the LORD God had taken from man, made he a woman, and brought her unto the man. > Act 15:14 — Simeon hath declared how God at the first did visit the Gentiles, to take out of them a people for his name. > Ge 5:24 And Enoch walked with God: and he was not; for God took him. > Luke 12 35 Let your loins be girded about, and your lights burning; 36 And ye yourselves like unto men that wait for their lord, when he will **return from the wedding**; that when he cometh and knocketh, they may open unto him immediately. 37 Blessed are those servants, whom the lord when he cometh shall find watching: verily I say unto you, that he shall gird himself, and make them to sit down to meat, and will come forth and serve them. 38 And if he shall come in the second watch, or come in the third watch, and find them so, blessed are those servants. > 1 Thessalonians 3 13 To the end he may stablish your hearts unblameable in holiness before God, even our Father, at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ **with all his saints.** > Matthew 25:1 &mash; 1 Then shall the kingdom of heaven be likened unto ten virgins, which took their lamps, and went forth to meet the bridegroom. > Matthew 25:6 — And at midnight there was a cry made, Behold, the bridegroom cometh; go ye out to meet him. > Matthew 25:10 — And while they went to buy, the bridegroom came; and they that were ready went in with him to the marriage: (marriage feast) and the door was shut. > Revelation 19:9 — 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.# SOS 1:1-2 Christ and His Bride Preached: October 18, 1978 by James R. Reynolds, Sr. ## Encouragement to Make Notes I trust that you have brought a paper and pencil with you. I would not expect you to retain all that we are going to be saying or all that we are going to be putting on the board. But if you can at least put down what we have put on the board, it will help you to remember. Many of the thoughts you will be able to recall, the Spirit will be able to bring them back to your mind. And Not only what we say, but what the Spirit will say. You jot the things down. Alot of the times the Spirit of of the Lord will help me to say things while I"m preaching to say things I had no intention of saying. And then many times the Spirit will reveal something to you as an individual the preacher didn't even say. If you don't write it down, I find, that usually you forget it. ## Reading of the Text Song of Solomon chapter 1 verses one and two. > Song of Solomon 1:1-2 — The song of songs, which is Solomon's. Let him kiss me with the kisses of his mouth: for thy love is better than wine ## I. The Earthly Setting of the Song We gave you a bit of background material last time in relation to the book. Now I want to give you an overall view of the book. This is a song that is actually a compilation of 5 songs. The lesson contained concerns Christ and his Bride. Although this story has an earthly setting including King Solomon of Israel, the meaning of the song goes far beyond that earthly setting. **THE KING** There is the king, Solomon, who is sitting and reigning on the throne who is an heir to wealth, success and all that goes along with the kingdom. **THE MAIDEN** King Solomon sees among all the other young maidens in the kingdom, a young woman that is just the delight of his eyes. She stands out from all the rest. Throughout the story, we the king making overtures to this young maiden trying to attract and draw her to himself, but she has none of it. She is not seduced by his position, popularity or propserity. **THE SHEPHERD** All the attentions the king spends upon her does not get her attention because she has a single eye for one shepherd boy that is out on the hillside, and she loves him beyond anything that Solomon can offer to her as king. SOS 1:7; - Some believe that is the little lady that they took and brought into David when we was an old man and dying to keep him warm (1 Kings 1:1-4) - NOTE: According to many historians, Solomon’s women could have just as well numbered seven wives and three concubines as 700 and 300 respectively. (1 Kings 11:1) - King Solomon has the privilege to seduce any young maiden that he desires by his riches, by his success by his position as king, and he has chosen to seduce her. Solomon could not attract the attention of this maiden away from the shepherd. (1 Peter 2:25) **THE CONFLICT** Solomon, as king, drew the attention of Israel away from God. They needed to have a singleness of eye for the Lord. (Acts 2:46; Ephesians 6:5;Ephesians 6:5; Colossians 3:22; 1 Samuel 8:5-9; Hosea 13:11; Psalm 106:15) The wealth and prosperity, success of Solomon as king, speaks of the world. (1 Kings 10:14; 2 Chronicles 9:13; Revelation 13:18) Solomon as the king in this song reigning on the throne with all of his riches and finery of life speaks of the world and all it’s riches making it’s appeal for the soul, drawing, attracting and seducing. The shepherd boy speaks of the One that is the Shepherd of the soul. The Shephered offers not the trinkets of the world, but Himself. **Only in Jesus can we be totally satisfied.**
**All the material wealth of the king does not appeal to the young maiden.**
She has a satisfied, but dissatisfied feeling. She had just enough to want more. She has been near him but not near enough to satisfy her. In this study we are not speaking of earthly things, but of Heavenly things—of Christ and His Bride. ## II. This is a Song - *Song of Songs* Song of Solomon is five songs compiled into one. > I Kings 4:32 — And he spake three thousand proverbs: and his songs were a thousand and five - Out the thousand and five we have but five. All the things that the LORD has wanted us to have have been preserved in the Bible. There is nothing lost that He wanted us to have, nor is there anything in the Bible that He didn’t want us to have. ### 1. The Author of the Song > “The Song of Songs which is Solomon’s” #### a. The Heavenly Solomon is the Author - The earthly Solomon is the writer but not the author. - The name Solomon means Peaceful or Prince of Peace. - Solomon typifies the peaceful reign of Jesus in His millennial reign. > I Chronicles 28:3 — But God said unto me, Thou shalt not build an house for my name, because thou hast been a man of war, and hast shed blood > I Chronicles 22:9 — Behold, a son shall be born to thee, who shall be a man of rest; and I will give him rest from all his enemies round about: for his name shall be Solomon, and I will give peace and quietness unto Israel in his days. David is a type of the Son that fought the great battle overthrowing the enemy. Solomon is a type of His returning as a ruling King reigning in peace. (Revelation 20:2-7; Isaiah 2:4; Micah 4:3; Hosea 2:18) - Jesus is the Prince of Peace because He gives us peace. - He has made a covenant with us also and it cannot and will not be broken > Matthew 24:35 — Heaven and earth shall pass away, but my words shall not pass away. (Mark 13:31; Luke 21:33) > Isaiah 9:6 — 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, Counsellor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace. We are talking about the One that has authored this book rather than the writer. The Song of Songs by the Heavenly Solomon expressing His feeling toward the little maiden and the expressions of that maiden’s feelings toward Him. The intent of this song reaches beyond the human comprehension. It is not vulgar, but is **beautiful**. It is not a song of one who has been attracted to an earthly person, but one who has fallen in love with a heavenly Bridegroom. ### 2. The Greatest of Songs > The Song of Song’s which is Solomon's > Revelation 17:14 — These shall make war with the Lamb, and the Lamb shall overcome them: for he is Lord of lords, and King of kings: and they that are with him are called, and chosen, and faithful. > Hebrews 9:3 — And after the second veil, the tabernacle which is called the Holiest of all; > Nehemiah 9:6 — Thou, even thou, art LORD alone; thou hast made heaven, the heaven of heavens, with all their host, the earth, and all things that are therein, the seas, and all that is therein, and thou preservest them all; and the host of heaven worshippeth thee. > II Corinthians 12:2 — I knew a man in Christ above fourteen years ago, (whether in the body, I cannot tell; or whether out of the body, I cannot tell: God knoweth;) such an one caught up to the third heaven. - FIRST HEAVEN: The Atmosphere is called Heaven. - SECOND HEAVEN: The Outerspace is called the Heavens. - THIRD HEAVEN: God’s throne is called Heaven of heavens. As there is a place above all other places, this is a song that is above all other songs. This song is not just an expression of human feeling, but is the expression of the Eternal Son in relationship to those who love Him and He is calling them to Himself. ### 3. The Ineffable Song The ineffable song because its expressions are almost unspeakable and uncomprehendable. This is a song that will not be understood by you if you only hear with the natural hearing. 1. It takes Revelation of the Spirit of God 2. It takes Illumination of the Spirit of God 3. It takes Inspiration of the Spirit of God > II Timothy 3:16 — All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: “Joy unspeakable and full of glory.” \[song\]. > I Kings 10:7 — Howbeit I believed not the words, until I came, and mine eyes had seen it: and, behold, the half was not told me: thy wisdom and prosperity exceedeth the fame which I heard. Surely when he see Him with all the expressions of men combined, still the half will not have been told. He is unspeakable! The Song is so vast and is a well with no end. > Ephesians 2:7 — That in the ages to come he might shew the exceeding riches of his grace in his kindness toward us through Christ Jesus. ### 4. The Pre-eminent Song Pre-eminent not just because of the song itself, but because of whom the song is about. Christ is the hightest over all and so this song is the pre-eminent song being about Christ. > Isaiah 6:1 — In the year that king Uzziah died I saw also the Lord sitting upon a throne, high and lifted up, and his train filled the temple > Colossians 1:18 — And he is the head of the body, the church: who is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead; that in all things he might have the preeminence. ## III. A Song of Love This is a Love Song of Christ and His Bride - Divine The Bridegroom is Jesus and He is expressing Himself. - Maiden The Bride is in love with Jesus and His Word and she responds with true expressions. ### 1. A Love Song This song is a deep expression of true love, real love. The words of the Bridegroom are revealed by the Spirit. #### a. Let **Him** Kiss me > Let him kiss me with the kisses of his mouth: The Bride never mentions the name of the Bridegroom but describes Him as **O thou whom my soul loveth** or Her Beloved and the King "Let Him" She has a singleness of eye and expects as she talks of Him who she loves, we will know whom she is talking about. I have no feeling for anyone else, but Him. Her eye is so single, she cannot see anyone else. She has one love and there is no other that has her attention. She is totally committed to Him. The church of today is embracing the world and the world is putting kisses all over her. God will not embrace you while you embrace the world. God is a jealous God and He wants you for Himself — hands off to everyone else! He is the first, last and only in her heart. #### b. Let Him kiss **me** Her lover is absent and she has an inner longing for Him. The great love of the maiden and the expression of her desire. She would not be saying, "I wish He would kiss me" if he was right there. The cry of the soul, is to be in His presence, to be near Him and feel His embrace in her sould. Though Jesus is absent from us yet He is near at hand. (Ps. 110:1; Acts 2:33; 7:55-56; Eph. 1:20; Col.3:1; Mark 16:19; Hebrews 1:3; 8:1; 10:12; 12:2) The touch of His presence totally satisfies our needs. Burdens? Trial? Pressure? Torment? Problems? He kisses away all our troubles and our problems. Get closer to Him so He can **kiss** you. #### c. The **kisses** of His mouth The love, in the song of her lover, expressed to her, in the fact that she so desired His kisses.(Psalm 2:12) We see the love of her lover in this song and not just her love for Him. Do you know what the kisses mean in the bible? 1. **The kiss of Reconciliation**. Those that were separated from their family setting, when they came back they received a kiss and restores us into fellowship. 2 Samuel 14 33 So Joab came to the king, and told him: and when he had called for Absalom, he came to the king, and bowed himself on his face to the ground before the king: and the king kissed Absalom. Lu 15:20 And he arose, and came to his father. But when he was yet a great way off, his father saw him, and had compassion, and ran, and fell on his neck, and kissed him. Lu 15:24 For this my son was dead, and is alive again; he was lost, and is found. And they began to be merry. 2. **Kiss of Acceptance**. He accepts us as we accept Him. 3. **Kiss of an Expression of Real Love**. The Spirit of God touching our lives, the Graces of God being made manifest in our hearts. > Song 1:2 ¶ Let him kiss me with the kisses of his mouth: The expression of real love, real intimate feelings. Living and moving with Him in the Spirit.- a relm most do not understand. Demands a close relationship to Him. To receive the kisses of the Lord you have got to be close. Nothing demands our attention as much as Jesus. > Revelation 2:4 Nevertheless I have somewhat against thee, because thou hast left thy first love. "You don't love me like you use to!" The Lord is not in the place He use to be in His church, the world has caught her attention and taken His place. There is an expression among some cultures to kiss their own hand. Do we want the kisses of the world and our own mouth or of His? IT’S NOT THE BRIDE IT IS THE BRIDEGROOM. Let us not be "kissing ourselves" but yearn for the kisses of the Bridegroom. ## IV. The Song of Deep Love > Song of Solomon 1:2 — Let him kiss me with the kisses of his mouth: for thy love is better than wine. ### 1. The Tokens of His love — "better than wine" The Wine is a Type of prosperity and of all desirable things - The many things that He shares - The many things that He gives. > Philippians 4:19 — But my God shall supply all your need according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus. ### 2. The Excellence of His Love In wine we have the expression of joy (Acts 2:13-18; Ephesians 5:18) #### a. His love brings Joy His love cheers us. His love strengthens us for coming trials and as His Bride. His love excels all Joy. (Ne 8:10) #### b. His love brings Pleasure > Ps 16:11 Thou wilt shew me the path of life: in thy presence is fulness of joy; at thy right hand there are pleasures for evermore. ##### c. His love brings Strength and Courage to be Bold Wine may give a false sense of boldness, but His love gives REAL boldness and strength. ### 3. The Purpose of His Love It is necessary for us to have His love that we may express real love. > 1 John 4:19 — We love him, because he first loved us (John 14:21,23) The more that He loves us, the more that we can love Him. How does He "love us more"? By close felloshwip, communion in His presence, walking in obedience. Until we come to that place of love for Him without reservation. **THIS IS NOT A NATURAL EXPERIENCE** This is something you can only get by getting lost in His presence. A TIME IN THE SPIRIT WHERE FOOD LOOSES IT’S ATTRACTION AND TIME IS LOST. You are not watching your clock to see how long you prayed. The Bride is calling out to Him, and there is a return call, He is calling out to her. She is not where she should be, and He is drawing and calling her. He is making overtures to her. Let us get our cup filled not with wine, but with His love. > Matthew 5:6 — They that hunger and thirst … \[a craving in our heart\] > Psalms 42:1 As the hart panteth after the water brooks, so panteth my soul after thee, O God. The Bride is going to thirst after Him. She is not going to thirst after all the things He could give, but Him — His love, His presence —are better than wine. God wants to manifest Himself in us and through us in a measure that this old world has never seen before. How much of His presence do you have? If you have enough to be satisfied than you do not have enough—WE NEED MORE. Is all that we have a ‘church affair’? Are we only satisfying the natural and glorifying the flesh and not glorifying God? ## Conclusion: DRAW NEAR TO HIM Let Him develop His love in our hearts so that we can really love Him the way we ought to love Him. If you got enought, you would not be satisfied. The more you get of Him, the more you will want.# SOS 1:3 The Person of the Bridegroom Preached: October 25, 1978 by James R. Reynolds, Sr. > Song of Solomon 1:3 — Because of the savour of thy good ointments thy name is as ointment poured forth, therefore do the virgins love thee. ## INTRODUCTION This lesson is about the attributes of the Bridegroom, but includes the Bride in that she will be like Him. She is talking about HIM. The Church is in need of a new revelation of His Person more than anything else. > Matthew 16:13-18 — When Jesus came into the coasts of Caesarea Philippi, he asked his disciples, saying, Whom do men say that I the Son of man am? 14 And they said, Some say that thou art John the Baptist: some, Elias; and others, Jeremias, or one of the prophets. 15 He saith unto them, But whom say ye that I am? 16 And Simon Peter answered and said, Thou art the Christ, the Son of the living God. 17 And Jesus answered and said unto him, Blessed art thou, Simon Barjona: for flesh and blood hath not revealed it unto thee, but my Father which is in heaven. 18 And I say also unto thee, That thou art **Peter**, and upon this **rock** I will build my church; and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it. NOTE: Peter — *petros* — little stone rock — *petra* — great ledge The Revelation of Christ The devil has us distracted and busy on so many things, and we need a **revelation of the Person of Christ** and to see Him like He is. It is the subtle attempt of hell to get us involved with all these other things God is a miracle worker, but the devil works miracles, too. Some of the greatest miracles that have ever been wrought are going to be wrought in these last times through the power of the devil. **Revelation 13:13-15** And he doeth great wonders, so that he maketh fire come down from heavenon the earth in the sight of men, And deceiveth them that dwell on the earth by the means of those miracleswhich he had powerto do in the sight of the beast; saying to them that dwell on the earth, that they should make an image to the beast, which had the wound by a sword, and did live. And he had power to give life unto the image of the beast, that the image of the beast should both speak, and cause that as many as would not worship the image of the beast should be killed. "**Miracles are** ***never*****any gauge of whether it is God."** Yes, God confirms His Word with signs, but always remember this: **Whenever the Holy Spirit is working there is going to be a manifestation of Holiness. If a miracle does not produce a Holy life, I guarantee you it is not the Holy Ghost. If a person is operating in the Holy Spirit there is going to be evidence of Holiness.** The highlight of our day is deception, and we must be careful that we not be deceived. **Luke 21:8** And he said, Take heed that ye **be not deceived**: for many shall come in my name, saying, I am Christ; and the time draweth near: go ye not therefore after them. **John 16:13** Howbeit when he, the Spirit of truth, is come, **he will guide you into all truth:**for he shall not speak of himself; but whatsoever he shall hear, that shall he speak: and he will shew you things to come. In situations you do not know the whole the story, but when you see a pattern of life you have a right to judge it according to the Scripture. **I Corinthians 2:15** But he that is spiritual judgeth all things, yet he himself is judged of no man. The devil is trying to get us off of the main line, by distortion and misinterpretation of the text. **Matthew 7:23** And then will I profess unto them, I never knew you: depart from me, ye that work iniquity. We must have a **relationship**with Him, and get our eyes on Him. We need to see Him like He is. 1. His Fragrant Characteristics She is talking about her love for Him. "…therefore do the virgins love thee." She is communicating here that she is one of many that love him, but she loves Him above all the others. There is only one among all the others that really loves Him. "Because of the **savour**of thy **good****ointments**…" - "**savour**" Hebrew — 'reyach': *odor (as if blown):--savour, scent, smell, or fragrance.* **Genesis 8:21** And the LORD smelled a **sweet savour**; and the LORD said in his heart, I will not again curse the ground any more for man's sake; for the imagination of man's heart is evil from his youth; neither will I again smite any more every thing living, as I have done. - "**good**" Hebrew —'towb': good, beautiful, best, better, precious. **Isaiah 39:8** Then said Hezekiah to Isaiah, **Good**is the word of the LORD which thou hast spoken. He said moreover, For there shall be peace and truth in my days. - "**ointments**" Hebrew — 'shemen': oil, ointment, grease, anointing. ***Other Translations:*** "The odor of your ointments is fragrant." (AMPLIFIED) "Thine oils have a goodly fragrance." (OTHER) Because of the savour of thy good ointments thy name is as ointment poured forth, **therefore do the virgins love Thee**. 1. The Wise Men from the East 1. Gold — Divinity This reveals to us His Heavenly glory. These gifts were no coincidence, but were the working of God. Jesus came out of the ivory palaces of Heaven and He laid aside the glory He had with the Father before the foundations of the world when came to us as the babe of Bethlehem. **John 17:5** And now, O Father, glorify thou me with thine own self with **the glory which I had with thee before the world was**. **Philippians 2:6-8** 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 became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross. 2. Frankincense — Life **Exodus 30:34** And the LORD said unto Moses, Take unto thee sweet spices, **stacte**, and **onycha**, and **galbanum**; these sweet spices with pure **frankincense**: of each shall there be a like weight: **Leviticus 2:2** And he shall bring it to Aaron's sons the priests: and he shall take thereout his handful of the flour thereof, and of the oil thereof, with all the **frankincense**thereof; and the priest shall burn the memorial of it upon the altar, to be an offering made by fire, of **a sweet savour unto the LORD**: When you burn something with a fragrance it fills the whole house. The Life of Jesus as fragrance filled the whole earth and it filled the Heavens. There has never been a life that has smelled as beautiful as the life of Jesus. His life is so fragrant! 3. Myrrh — Sufferings The Cross — His Death — The Barrenness He Endured **Hebrews 2:10** 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. **Hebrews 5:8** Though he were a Son, yet **learned he obedience by the things which he suffered;** "He drank the bitter that we might drink the sweet." (Myrrh is a very bitter herb, but it has a very sweet fragrance.) 2. Jesus was Anointed Twice 1. At the Beginning of Christ's Ministry **Luke 7:36-50** (verses 37 & 38) And, behold, a woman in the city, which was a sinner, when she knew that Jesus sat at meat in the Pharisee's house, brought an **alabaster box of ointment**, And stood at his feet behind him weeping, and began to wash his feet with tears, and did wipe them with the hairs of her head, and kissed his feet, and **anointed them with the ointment**. **Acts 10:38** How God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Ghost and with power: **who went about doing good**, and healing all that were oppressed of the devil; for God was with him. 2. Just Before Christ's Death & Burial **John 12:3-8** (verses 3 & 7) Then took Mary a pound of **ointment**of spikenard, very costly, and anointed the feet of Jesus, and wiped his feet with her hair: and **the house was filled with the odour of the ointment.**Then said Jesus, Let her alone: against the day of my burying hath she kept this. Just as much as you need an anointing on your life to live for God and to do the work of God, **you are going to need the anointing to take you to the cross or you will never go**. It is the hardest thing in the world to crucify the flesh, but God wants to anoint your life and bring it to the cross. Are you dead? There was no stench in Christ's death, but only a beautiful fragrance! That fragrance saturated not only that day, but all of eternity. **Psalm 16:10** For thou wilt not leave my soul in hell; **neither wilt thou suffer thine Holy One to see corruption**. His little Bride is going to come to that place of not having the stench of the flesh, but having that sweet, beautiful fragrance. 3. Our Greatest Need We do not realize how bad we smell until we get around Him Who smells so beautifully. 1. The Fragrance of His Humility When you compare yourself to others you might say, "Well, I'm doing a pretty good job." When we get close to Him and the fragrance of His Humility then do we begin to smell the stench of our own pride. 2. The Fragrance of His Purity and Holiness We are not the only ones standing up for truth and having the truth. God is revealing truth all around the world today by his Spirit. He is leading people out sin and into a revelation of Himself—into a life of purity and holiness. The farther away you get away from the Lord, the more your flesh can manifest itself without you smelling it. People say, "Well, I don't see the need for all that straining and struggling." That is because they are so far off. The way to get closer to Him is by the truth. **John 8:32** And ye shall **know the truth**, and the truth shall make you free. The closer you get to Him, the greater His fragrance will become. Getting close to Him will help you see two things: 1) How badly you smell and 2) How much you need Him. **He wants you to smell like Himself.** 3. The Fragrance of His Patience The farther off we are from Him the less these things bother us, but the closer we get the more we realize the beauty and fragrance of His patience and the stench of our own impatience. This contrast is seen more obviously in our closeness to Him. God wants to give us that which His Son has. Does God want to put up with our spiritual stench? He is going to have a bride wearing not garments we have made but that which He has provided. **Psalm 45:8** All **thy garments**smell of myrrh, and aloes, and cassia, out of the ivory palaces, whereby they have made thee glad. **Romans 13:12** The night is far spent, the day is at hand: let us therefore **cast off the works of darkness**, and let us put on the armour of light. The beauty of Jesus is going to be in the life of the Believer that makes up the Bride. If we do not smell like Jesus it is a sure indication that we have not been in His presence. 2. His Precious Name "…*thy name* *is as ointment* *poured forth**.."* Ointment in a container does not give forth its fragrance, but it must be poured out. - Heavenly Solomon — Prince of Peace - Christ — Anointed **Exodus 30:25,30,33** And thou shalt make it an oil of holy ointment, an ointment compound after the art of the **apothecary**: it shall be **an holy anointing oil**. And thou shalt anoint Aaron and his sons, and consecrate them, **that they may minister** unto me in the priest's office. Whosoever **compoundeth any like it**, or whosoever putteth any of it upon a stranger, **shall even be cut off** from his people. God wants you to smell like Jesus when you come into His presence and when you minister to the people. - Jesus — Savior Jesus is the source and fountain of all fragrance in Heaven and in earth. When they nailed Him to the cross and broke His Body, they broke the box and out came such a sweet fragrance, "Father, forgive them. They don't know what they are doing." The fragrance of the alabaster box being broken was released on the cross. (Matthew 26:7) You can't speak the name of Jesus without something happening. His name is like ointment poured forth! **Jeremiah 8:22** Is there no **balm in Gilead**; is there no physician there? why then is not the health of the daughter of my people recovered? When the fragrance of His name is poured forth, the devil does not like it. The songwriter put it this way, "Precious name, Oh How sweet! Hope of earth and Joy of Heaven." 1. His Name is Salvation 2. His Name is Authority 3. His Name is Healing 4. His Name is Victory 3. The Love They Have for Him 1. We love Him because He first loved us. **I John 4:19** We love Him, because He first loved us. 2. We desire to not be defiled. **John 14:15** If ye love Me, keep my commandments. 3. The closer we walk the greater our love will be for each other. **John 17:21** That they all may be one; as thou, Father, art in me, and I in thee, that they also may be one in us: that the world may believe that thou hast sent me. # SOS 1:4 The Drawings and Blessings of the Bridegroom preached: November 1, 1978 by James R. Reynolds, Sr. > Song of Solomon 1:4 — Draw me, we will run after thee: the king hath brought me into his chambers: we will be glad and rejoice in thee, we will remember thy love more than wine: the upright love thee. ## Introduction The Song of Solomon is not just metaphor and poetry, but it is divine truth. It is a divine revelation from the heart of God to those that love Him. It is not to the “run of the mill,” but it’s to those that love Him. ## I. The Bride’s Request and Promise The Bride’s cry is “Draw me, we will run after thee.” This is something that the Bridegroom is going to do. The Bride recognizes **her** inability to run after Him unless He draws her. - None of us would be here tonight if He hadn’t have drawn you. - The drawing has to come before the running. ### A. It Reveals a Deep Hunger The Bride wants to run because she is dissatisfied with the way things are. We are satisfied with Jesus and what he has done for us, yet there is something inside that is crying out for more. > Psalm 42:2 — My soul thirsteth for God, for the living God: when shall I come and appear before God? When does God answer your prayer? When you get real serious about it. > “…we will **run** after thee.” We need to be running in these days. It’s going to take a quick work. There’s a long ways to go. ### B. It Reveals Divine Truth He is going to have to draw us if we’re going to run. > John 6:44 — No man can come to me, except the Father which hath sent me draw him: and I will raise him up at the last day. You won’t come unless He draws you, but you also won’t come unless you yield. He will never force you. You have to be willing, and it’s going to take more than willingness. God has to draw you. > Job 41:1 — Canst thou draw out leviathan with an hook? or his tongue with a cord which thou lettest down? He’ll never force you to be something that you don’t want to be, but if there is a deep cry in your heart tonight for Him to draw you, He’ll aid you. When you come to end of your strength, God can still help you to go on > Isaiah 40:31— But they that wait upon the LORD shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint. > I Kings 18:41-46 — (verse 46) And the hand of the LORD was on Elijah; and he girded up his loins, and ran before Ahab to the entrance of Jezreel. If God can help a man to run in the natural, He sure can help him run in the spiritual. ### C. It Reveals a Healthy Experience There’s something wrong with a man that doesn’t want to eat. It’s a good thing to be hungry. The Word of God is where the meat is. > Psalm 138:2— I will worship toward thy holy temple, and praise thy name for thy lovingkindness and for thy truth: for thou hast magnified thy word above all thy name. If you get something going apart from the Word, you got it going, God never did. > Matthew 5:6—Blessed are they which do hunger and thirst after righteousness: for they **shall be filled**. The hunger comes from the Spirit. It’s not something you work up or work down. ### D. It Reveals a Determined Mind It’s going to be a settled thing. You have to determine in your mind by the Grace of God, “come hell or high water, I’m going to go on for God. No matter who opposes or who stands against me, I’m going to run for God.” It makes no difference what things, or events, or happenings, or circumstances, or how you feel, or how you don’t feel, it depends only on what God has said in His Word. > Hebrews 12:11 —Now no chastening for the present seemeth to be joyous, but grievous: nevertheless afterward it yieldeth the peaceable fruit of righteousness unto them which are exercised thereby. ## II. The King’s Chambers > “…the **king** hath brought me into his chambers…” ### A. The Chamber of Salvation We didn’t save ourselves. Jesus saved us. The King brought me into the chamber. ### B. The Chamber of the Baptism As we cry “draw me, and we will run,” He will draw us, and bring us into another experience. ### C. The Chamber of Sanctification When He takes us into Salvation, He means for us to go on, and He takes us into the Baptism because He means for us to go on. The basic fundamental purpose of receiving the Baptism is to take us on into the other chambers. Holiness is that which is in the Bible. Sanctification- separated from, dedicated to; taking the old nature to the cross, so the new nature can be dedicated to God. Matthew 7:14 Because strait is the gate, and narrow is the way, which leadeth unto life, and few there be that find it. John 3:30 He must increase, but I must decrease. Numbers 32:11-13 Surely none of the men that came up out of Egypt, from twenty years old and upward, shall see the land which I sware unto Abraham, unto Isaac, and unto Jacob; because they have not wholly followed me: Save Caleb the son of Jephunneh the Kenezite, and Joshua the son of Nun: for they have wholly followed the LORD. And the LORD'S anger was kindled against Israel, and he made them wander in the wilderness forty years, until all the generation, that had done evil in the sight of the LORD, was consumed. There is going to be a spirit of humility with strength. A spirit that looks at self as nothing, and looks at Christ as everything. I Peter 5:6 Humble yourselves therefore under the mighty hand of God, that he may exalt you in due time: Galatians 2:20 I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me: and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave himself for me. Romans 8:29 For whom he did foreknow, he also did predestinate to be conformed to the image of his Son, that he might be the firstborn among many brethren. II Corinthians 3:18 But we all, with open face beholding as in a glass the glory of the Lord, are changed into the same image from glory to glory, even as by the Spirit of the Lord The Lord wants to get rid of the flesh, and let the spiritual man grow. Ephesians 4:13 Till we all come in the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God, unto a perfect man, unto the measure of the stature of the fulness of Christ: ### D. The Chamber of Perfection There is a place in the Spirit that the King is going to take a people that are willing and that are wanting to go into-- a place in the Spirit, not beyond this world, but in this world. > Hebrews 6:1 — Therefore leaving the principles of the doctrine of Christ, let us go on unto **perfection**; not laying again the foundation of repentance from dead works, and of faith toward God, Matthew 5:48 Be ye therefore perfect, even as your Father which is in heaven is perfect. Jude 1:23 And others save with fear, pulling them out of the fire; hating even the garment spotted by the flesh. He offered to a people a position of authority and rule with Himself, and He offered that to a last day church. Laodecian- Lukewarm; a government by the people Revelation 3:20 Behold, I stand at the door, and knock: if any man hear my voice, and open the door, I will come in to him, and will sup with him, and he with me. Revelation 3:21 To him that overcometh will I grant to sit with me in my throne, even as I also overcame, and am set down with my Father in his throne. Righteousness- to act, to think, to be like God It is going to take all that you got, and all that God can give you to get you to the throne. It is going to take the determination on your part and the grace of God on His. ## III. The Bride’s Delight > 1:4 — We will be glad and rejoice in Thee. (first section of the following recording and then continues on to next page of notes: ) ### A. The Person of the Bridegroom - She is not rejoicing in what He is doing, but she is rejoicing in what He is. - We need a new appreciation for Him. - We should realize and appreciate His presence and His person. #### 1. He is after us, and we should be after Him. > I Samuel 22:36 — Thou hast also given me the shield of thy salvation: and **thy gentleness hath made me great**. > Psalm 18:35 — Thou hast also given me the shield of thy salvation: and thy right hand hath holden me up, and **thy gentleness hath made me great**. We need to appreciate the Giver more than the gift. Psalm 68:19 Blessed be the Lord, who daily loadeth us with benefits, even the God of our salvation. Selah. #### 2. Appreciate the benefit, but rejoice in Him. #### 3. Appreciate the Giver more than just the gifts. ### B. The Love of the Bridegroom It is not all His benefits, but Him and His love that delights the Bride. She receives a revelation of His everlasting love. > “…we will remember thy love more than wine:…” Wine here speaks of all pleasant things here in the natural. These natural pleasant things will leave you empty. She knew something about wine but she saw something in Him that was much better. > Jeremiah 31:3 — The LORD hath appeared of old unto me, saying, Yea, I have loved thee with an everlasting love: therefore with lovingkindness have I drawn thee. - Nothing should stand between you and Him. - We need to remember His love - We need to talk about Him, and His great love. > 1John 4:19—We love him, because he first loved us. 1. He loved us while we were yet sinners > Romans 5:8— But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us. 2. He loved us while we were in the world and lingering > Ephesians 2:2-4— Wherein in time past ye walked according to the course of this world, according to the prince of the power of the air, the spirit that now worketh in the children of disobedience: Among whom also we all had our conversation in times past in the lusts of our flesh, fulfilling the desires of the flesh and of the mind; and were by nature the children of wrath, even as others. But God, who is rich in mercy, for his great love wherewith he loved us, > Ephesians 2:12,13 — That at that time ye were without Christ, being aliens from the commonwealth of Israel, and strangers from the covenants of promise, having no hope, and without God in the world: But now in Christ Jesus ye who sometimes were far off are made nigh by the blood of Christ. 3. He loved us while we were unbelieving and disobedient. > Titus 1:15,16 — Unto the pure all things are pure: but unto them that are defiled and unbelieving is nothing pure; but even their mind and conscience is defiled. They profess that they know God; but in works they deny him, being abominable, and disobedient, and unto every good work reprobate. > Titus 3:3-8 —For we ourselves also were sometimes foolish, disobedient, deceived, serving divers lusts and pleasures, living in malice and envy, hateful, and hating one another. But after that the kindness and love of God our Saviour toward man appeared Not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to his mercy he saved us, by the washing of regeneration, and renewing of the Holy Ghost; Which he shed on us abundantly through Jesus Christ our Saviour; That being justified by his grace, we should be made heirs according to the hope of eternal life. This is a faithful saying, and these things I will that thou affirm constantly, that they which have believed in God might be careful to maintain good works. These things are good and profitable unto men. **It is not her love for Him, but His love for her that is better than any earthly good or pleasure.** ### C. “…the upright love thee.” This is a relationship beyond a single experience. 1. Not everybody really loves Him. Those that walk with Him and those that really know Him and have been touched by Him they love Him. There is nothing so satisfying than to be in His presence. Nothing in the world can take His place A Revelation of His presence and person produces the truth in our spirit that we should love him the way He loves us. 2. Those obedient to the Spirit are made upright# SOS 1:5,6 The Bride Viewed in Three Dimensions preached: November 8, 1978 by James R. Reynolds, Sr. These notes begin at minute 15 of the following recording: > Song of Solomon 1:5,6 — I am black, but comely, O ye daughters of Jerusalem, as the tents of Kedar, as the curtains of Solomon. Look not upon me, because I am black, because the sun hath looked upon me: my mother's children were angry with me; they made me the keeper of the vineyards; but mine own vineyard have I not kept. ## I. The Spiritual View She sees herself black, in an awful condition as conviction strikes but under submission to Him. ### A. Conviction > I am black… because the sun hath looked upon me…" The blackness is the effects of the sun while she was in the world as a sinner. She is recognizing that she is not like she should be. She had felt secure until the light shone upon her. A believer does not sense his need until the Spirit touches him. The Word as the searchlight of Heaven is shining upon her and the light exposes the blackness and the Spirit is bringing conviction. She is now under conviction and her eyes are opened. > John 16:8 — And when he is come, he will reprove the world of sin, and of righteousness, and of judgment: - Laodecian — Lukewarm; a government by the people The church of the Loadecians is not owned by the Lord. The government has been taken out of His hands. **Revelation 3:17, 18** Because thou sayest, I am rich, and increased with goods, and have need of nothing; and knowest not that thou art wretched, and miserable, and poor, and blind, and naked: I counsel thee to buy of me gold tried in the fire, that thou mayest be rich; and white raiment, that thou mayest be clothed, and that the shame of thy nakedness do not appear; and anoint thine eyes with eyesalve, that thou mayest see. The Lord wanted them to see how black they were. **Revelation 3:15, 16** I know thy works, that thou art neither cold nor hot: I would thou wert cold or hot. So then because thou art lukewarm, and neither cold nor hot, I will spue thee out of my mouth. The Bride needs to see in areas of her life where she lacks by the touch of the Spirit. (a) She is recognizing her need. (b) She is recognizing what the light of truth is exposing. (c) She is responding to the Spirit ### B. Confession Not only does the Bride realize the she has a need, but when she wants God to do something for her, she has to confess it. God knows your need, but God won't do anything for your need until you want Him to. When the Lord comes by and touches us, we see ourselves, and begin to not like ourselves > 1 John 1:9 — If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. > I am black,…as the tents of Kedar…" The tents of Kedar were the Arabian type of tents that were made out of black goatskins. They were as black on the inside as on the outside. She felt her need because the Spirit was touching her, showing up little crevices and corners in her life that need to be dealt with, and she confesses them. God can give us the victory if we really want it. ### C. Commitment > I am black, because the sun hath looked upon me…" The sun has had an effect on the Bride. Even though you have come in out of the sun, you might carry the effect for weeks. Commitment means that you turn it over. She realizes that she has a problem, but can't do anything with it unless He helps her. Stay under the influence of the Son of Righteousness, and the old, blistering sun of sin won't have any more effect on you. Your color will change, and you won't be black any more. Commitment is faith Believing and obeying the Word of God while under the influence of the Sun of righteousness. “the sun hath looked upon me:” The things of this world won’t be having any effect on me any more.. She committed her need to Him. He takes away the blackness He takes away the effects of the world. ## II. The Divine View She now sees herself in relationship to the Bridegroom. Seeing from God’s view through His Son. > I am black, but comely… - **comely**" Hebrew — 'nawveh': *Suitable, or beautiful:- becometh, comely, seemly.* The Bride couldn't produce a change, but the Bridegroom has produced a change — beautiful **in Jesus**. The Revelation of being suitable for the one who is beautiful ### A. Provision - Taken out of sin and placed in Christ. - Made as righteous as Christ - Same person made a new creature in Christ > Isaiah 1:18 — Come now, and let us reason together, saith the LORD: though your sins be as scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they be red like crimson, they shall be as wool. God sees us in Christ, and the only way you can stay in Christ is to walk in the light. 1 John 1:7 — But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship one with another, and the blood of Jesus Christ his Son cleanseth us from all sin. > Ephesians 1:6 — To the praise of the glory of his grace, wherein he hath made us accepted in the beloved. ### B. Partakers It is not enough to see the provision, but we must become partakers of it. Partaking of His Divine nature makes us beautifu **1John 2:6** He that saith he abideth in him ought himself also so to walk, even as he walked. **1Peter 2:21** For even hereunto were ye called: because Christ also suffered for us, leaving us an example, that ye should follow his steps: **Ephesians 4:1** I therefore, the prisoner of the Lord, beseech you that ye walk worthy of the vocation wherewith ye are called, **John 8:12** Then spake Jesus again unto them, saying, I am the light of the world: he that followeth me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life. **2 Corinthians 6:17** Wherefore come out from among them, and be ye separate, saith the Lord, and touch not the unclean thing; and I will receive you, **2 Peter 1:4** Whereby are given unto us exceeding great and precious promises: that by these ye might be **partakers****of the divine nature**, having escaped the corruption that is in the world through lust. Partaking is not simply one experience, but it is a process and a progress. **Ephesians 4:22,24** That ye put off concerning the former conversation the old man, which is corrupt according to the deceitful lusts; And that ye put on the new man, which after God is created in righteousness and true holiness. **Romans 13:12,14** The night is far spent, the day is at hand: let us therefore cast off the works of darkness, and let us put on the armour of light. But put ye on the Lord Jesus Christ, and make not provision for the flesh, to fulfil the lusts thereof. ### C. Perfection > I am black, but comely…as the curtains of Solomon." **Exodus 26:14** And thou shalt make a covering for the tent of rams' skins dyed red, and a covering above of badgers' skins. **Exodus 26:1** Moreover thou shalt make the tabernacle with ten curtains of fine twined linen, and blue, and purple, and scarlet: with cherubims of cunning work shalt thou make them. **Hebrews 8:5** Who serve unto the example and shadow of heavenly things, as Moses was admonished of God when he was about to make the tabernacle: for, See, saith he, that thou make all things according to the pattern shewed to thee in the mount. **The pure white linen**- the spotless perfection of the humanity of Christ. **Purple**- His royalty. **Deuteronomy 28:13** And the LORD shall make thee the head, and not the tail; and thou shalt be above only, and thou shalt not be beneath; if that thou hearken unto the commandments of the LORD thy God, which I command thee this day, to observe and to do them: **Blue**- His Heavenly character **Scarlet**- sufferings **Hebrews 5:8** Though he were a Son, yet learned he obedience by the things which he suffered; **Romans 8:17, 18** And if children, then heirs; heirs of God, and joint-heirs with Christ; if so be that we suffer with him, that we may be also glorified together. For I reckon that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory which shall be revealed in us. **Gold**- His divine nature **Revelation 19:7, 8** 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. - "**white**" Greek — 'lampros': *Radiant;* by analogy *limpid;* figuratively *magnificent* or *sumptuous* (in appearance):- bright, clear, gay, goodly, gorgeous, white. **Matthew 17:1, 2** And after six days Jesus taketh Peter, James, and John his brother, and bringeth them up into an high mountain apart, And was transfigured before them: and his face did shine as the sun, and his raiment was white as the light. **Romans 1:17** For therein is the righteousness of God revealed from faith to faith: as it is written, The just shall live by faith. **Hebrews 6:1** Therefore leaving the principles of the doctrine of Christ, let us go on unto perfection; not laying again the foundation of repentance from dead works, and of faith toward God, **2 Peter 3:18** But grow in grace, and in the knowledge of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. To him be glory both now and for ever. Amen. **2 Corinthians 3:18** But we all, with open face beholding as in a glass the glory of the Lord, are changed into the same image from glory to glory, even as by the Spirit of the Lord. **Philippians 3:13** Brethren, I count not myself to have apprehended: but this one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind, and reaching forth unto those things which are before, I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus. The Bride will attain to His Perfection The little Bride will have on the garment that He has provided clean and white. 1:5 “ as the curtains of Solomon” I am like Him- she sees herself as He can make her. God sees the end from the beginning God shows us the complete state that we can arrive to. Romans 1 17 For therein is the righteousness of God revealed from faith to faith: as it is written, The just shall live by faith. Not just a process of going from one experience to another but an ultimate experience of perfection. John 1 16 And of his fulness have all we received, and grace for grace. Hebrews 6 1 Therefore leaving the principles of the doctrine of Christ, let us go on unto perfection; not laying again the foundation of repentance from dead works, and of faith toward God, 2 Peter 3 18 But grow in grace, and in the knowledge of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. To him be glory both now and for ever. Amen. 2 Corinthians 3 18 But we all, with open face beholding as in a glass the glory of the Lord, are changed into the same image from glory to glory, even as by the Spirit of the Lord. Arrive to the ultimate Ephesians 4 13 Till we all come in the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God, unto a perfect man, unto the measure of the stature of the fulness of Christ: Jesus knew what He was, who He was and where He was in the Spirit, but didn’t boast of it, We will be the same as Him if we remain in Him. The process is still going on but we can know as we arrive. It will take the outpouring of God’s Spirit to bring us to completion. ## III. The Carnal View The carnal vision of what she has done. > I am black, but comely, O ye daughters of Jerusalem…" ### A. The Saved (Daughters of Jerusalem) **2 Corinthians 3:2** Ye are our epistle written in our hearts, known and read of all men: The Bride is trying to help them see her, not as she was, but as she is in Christ. ### B. The Baptized Believer (My Mother's Children) > my mother's children were angry with me…" The little Bride has caught a vision of something better, and her mother's children are angry with her because of it. A conversation to the daughters of Jerusalem 1:5 “O ye daughters of Jerusalem” Don’t look upon me from a carnal view or from the natural view Don’t look upon my past or from the natural view. See me in Him. I am comely now, beautiful in Him. There will be many watching us from a carnal view. There is nothing we can do to change the fact that we have done wrong before but we can make a difference now in Christ. ``` WE ARE TO BE AN EXAMPLE IN CHRIST ``` 1:6 my mother's children were angry with me; If you want something more, your mothers’ children will be angry with you and call you the dreamer. Don’t use any negative that people show, as an excuse to fail. The church is the mother of the Bride. > Revelation 12:1, 2 &mash;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. ### C. Herself (Excuses to Neglect in our own Vineyard) 1:6 “ They made me the keeper of the vineyards” There is no excuse for neglect Hebrews 2 3 How shall we escape, if we neglect so great salvation; which at the first began to be spoken by the Lord, and was confirmed unto us by them that heard him; 1:6 “Mine own vineyard have I not kept.” She confesses her own negligence her relaxing and begins to make excuses for herself. To busy Lack of prayer Lack of growth No pruning No reception of truth No cleansing and forgot about the purging that has been. II Pt. 1:9 Become relaxed about our own experience Excusing the neglect No witnessing or very little 10. No faith - No works of Righteousness which He hath done.# SOS 1:7 From the Uttermost to Uttermost Preached: November 15, 1978 by James R. Reynolds, Sr. > Song of Solomon 1:7 — Tell me, O thou whom my soul loveth, where thou feedest, where thou makest thy flock to rest at noon: for why should I be as one that turneth aside by the flocks of thy companions? ## INTRODUCTION When we relax it is so easy to make excuse. "they made me the keeper of the vineyards;" It is because we REALLY are not that enthused about it and therefore we are caught neglecting our vineyard. Be as busy as you can, but do not neglect your own. Never use the excuse, "I was so busy helping others, I did not have time to take care of my own." *From Her uttermost to His Uttermost*. The little bride finds herself longing, hungering, thirsting to be with her lover. From her great hunger she craves for His Uttermost for all that He has and all that He is. She is longing to be **in His presence**. She has not yet come to the place where she is enjoying what her heart longs for. There is a vast difference between those that hunger and those that are unconcerned. There are multitudes of people that are unconcerned. ## I. In the Title Employed 1. **It is Personal — "Thou" — "My"** Tell me, O **thou**whom **my** soul loveth, **John 11:3** Therefore his sisters sent unto him, saying, Lord, behold, he whom thou lovest is sick. 1:3 "The Virgins love Thee." 1:4 "The Upright love Thee" 1:7 "**My soul**loveth Thee" There is no mention of others here. Before, it was loving Him amongst the multitude, fellowship and communion with friends. Then it is stepping out of the crowd, to now **all alone, loving Him.**Finding a inner place with Him. **Luke 10:1** After these things the Lord appointed other **seventy**also, and sent them two and two before his face into every city and place, whither he himself would come**.** **Luke 9:1** Then he called his **twelve**disciples together, and gave them power and authority over all devils, and to cure diseases. **Matthew 17:1** And after six days Jesus taketh Peter, James, and John his brother, and bringeth them up into an high mountain apart, **John 21:20** Then Peter, turning about, seeth the disciple **whom Jesus loved** following; which also leaned on his breast at supper, and said, Lord, which is he that betrayeth thee? Personal union now attached to Him. **Thou**and **My** The closer you get the more hungry you get.A hunger within the Bride that wants to be in His presence, nothing in life will satisfy her but Him. She has tasted something that has satisfied her inner being. **Philippians 3:8** Yea doubtless, and I count all things but loss for the excellency of the knowledge of Christ Jesus my Lord: for whom I have suffered the loss of all things, and do count them but **dung**, that I may win Christ, **Philippians 3:10** **That I may know him**, and the power of his resurrection, and the fellowship of his sufferings, being made conformable unto his death; **2 Timothy 4:7** I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith: 2. **It is Profound — "Soul"** **Song of Solomon 1:7a** Tell me, O thou whom my soul loveth,.. We must learn to live by faith. It is something in the inner being; It is my soul speaking out. This is not the flesh speaking out but is a cry from the depths of the soul. The soul is effected either by the flesh or by the Spirit. Lean towards God and loose the effects of the flesh **Romans 1:17** For therein is the righteousness of God revealed from faith to faith: as it is written, **The just shall live by faith****.** By that which we Know; that which is in the Spirit beyond the flesh. The soul, the inner part, is involved. **Song of Solomon 1:7** Tell me, O thou whom my **soul**loveth, (This is more than an expression of words) **John 14:15** If ye love me, keep my commandments. This is a cry in the soul beyond the consciousness of the flesh. Not a put on, a longing , not a front, but a sincere "I want more of God." **Psalm 42:2** My soul thirsteth for God, for the living God: Can't be satisfied by anything else or anything less but our soul has got to have Him. 3. **It is Intimate — "Loveth"** **Song of Solomon. 1:7** Tell me, O thou whom my soul **loveth**,… Showing involvement of deep feeling. Having fellowship and communion with Him not just with God's people. Filled up with His presence and His Person, all alone with Jesus. **Paul**expresses himself in relationship to the Bride's feeling. **Philippians 3:8** Yea doubtless, and I count all things but loss for the excellency of the knowledge of Christ Jesus my Lord: for whom I have suffered the loss of all things, and do count them but dung, that I may win Christ, **Romans 7:15** For that which I do I allow not: for what I would, that do I not; but what I hate, that do I. **Romans 7:19-24** For the good that I would I do not: but the evil which I would not, that I do. Now if I do that I would not, it is no more I that do it, but sin that dwelleth in me. I find then a law, that, when I would do good, evil is present with me. For I delight in the law of God after the inward man: But I see another law in my members, warring against the law of my mind, and bringing me into captivity to the law of sin which is in my members. O wretched man that I am! who shall deliver me from the body of this death? **Romans 8:1-4** There is therefore now no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit. For the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus hath made me free from the law of sin and death. For what the law could not do, in that it was weak through the flesh, God sending his own Son in the likeness of sinful flesh, and for sin, condemned sin in the flesh: That the righteousness of the law might be fulfilled in us, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit. **Paul**has moved on into a deeper realm. Running for the goal, letting Him build things up. The devil does not care how much truth you have as long as you have a mixture. The devil gets people get off just enough, but not too far lest they expose themselves. **Revelation 3:20** Behold, I stand at the door, and knock: if any man hear my voice, and open the door, I will come in to him, and will sup with him, and he with me. He is trying to get into the church, but the church won't listen because she has been sidetracked. Mary Magdalene at Jesus' feet is a picture of the Bride. She was black as black could be, but when Christ was done with her she was as white as Solomon's curtains. He put something in her soul that her love for Him seemed to surpass the love of others. **Luke 8:2** And certain women, which had been healed of evil spirits and infirmities, Mary called Magdalene, out of whom went seven devils, **Luke 7:37,38** And, behold, a woman in the city, which was a sinner, when she knew that Jesus sat at meat in the Pharisee's house, brought an alabaster box of ointment, And stood at his feet behind him weeping, and began to wash his feet with tears, and did wipe them with the hairs of her head, and kissed his feet, and anointed them with the ointment. **Luke 7:45-47** Thou gavest me no kiss: but this woman since the time I came in hath not ceased to kiss my feet. My head with oil thou didst not anoint: but this woman hath anointed my feet with ointment. Wherefore I say unto thee, Her sins, which are many, are forgiven; **for she loved much**: but to whom little is forgiven, the same loveth little. At the garden scene her soul was crushed. (Where were all the disciples? Where was Peter? But here we find Mary weeping.) **John 20:15** Jesus saith unto her, Woman, why weepest thou? whom seekest thou? She, supposing him to be the gardener, saith unto him, Sir, if thou have borne him hence**, tell me where thou hast laid him, and I will take him away.** If it is something that you have to put on, it will not last long. "Where is He?" ## II. In the Opinion Expressed **Song of Solomon 1:7a** Tell me, O thou whom my soul loveth, where thou feedest, where thou makest thy flock to rest at noon:.. 1. **The Good Shepherd** "Tell me, O thou whom my soul loveth, **where thou feedest**," There are a lot of wiles of the adversary we must face, but if we have been feeding where He feeds then we have that which will give us backbone. You can't tell the difference between wheat and chaff by looking at it, but with the movement of wind comes a showing of the difference. She knew He was feeding and that He has the best there is. **Ephesians 4:14** That we henceforth be no more children, tossed to and fro, and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the sleight of men, and cunning craftiness, whereby they lie in wait to deceive; **Psalm 23:1,2** The LORD is my shepherd; I shall not want. He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: he leadeth me beside the still waters. **Matthew 24:28** For wheresoever the carcase is, there will the eagles be gathered together. Eagles do not eat last week's food. That will give you backbone. It makes life worth living. We are eating eagle's food! God is feeding people because He wants a people for His glory. There is no question in her mind if He is good. She just wants to know where it is that He is feeding. She had to have already fed there once or she would not be this hungry now. She is hungry for the real thing, for that hidden manna. He has some feeding places. **Revelation 12:14** 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. **Revelation 2:17** He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches; To him that overcometh will I give to eat of the hidden manna, and will give him a white stone, and in the stone a new name written, which no man knoweth saving he that receiveth it. **I Corinthians 2:9,10** But as it is written, Eye hath not seen, nor ear heard, neither have entered into the heart of man, the things which God hath prepared for them that love him. But God hath revealed them unto us by his Spirit: for the Spirit searcheth all things, yea, the deep things of God. 2. **The Satisfying Shepherd** "**rest"** You do not find sheep resting until they are full, satisfied. This is an experience where we rest. It is not works, but it is through faith in Jesus. This place of rest is in the presence of Jesus. **Psalm 16:11** Thou wilt shew me the path of life: in thy presence is fulness of joy; at thy right hand there are pleasures for evermore. The Christian life is a paradox: we can laugh when we are crying and cry when we are laughing! 3. **The Defending Shepherd** "**rest at noon"** It is one thing to have rest in the coolness of the morning or evening, but how about in the midst of the noon hour when the heat is turned up? Yet, in the noontime He is able to give you rest. He is our defense! **Daniel 3:19** Then was Nebuchadnezzar full of fury, and the form of his visage was changed against Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego: therefore he spake, and commanded that they should heat the furnace one **seven times more than it was wont to be heated**. **Jeremiah 29:13** And ye shall seek me, and find me, when ye shall search for me with all your heart. ## III. In the Intensity of Her Request > Song of Solomon 1:7b — … for why should I be as one that turneth aside by the flocks of thy companions?< 1. **Her Recognized Weakness** **Song of Solomon 1:7**for why should I be **as one that turneth aside** by the flocks of thy companions? **I Corinthians 10:12** Wherefore let him that thinketh he standeth take heed lest he fall. I don't want to be turned aside. I want to walk in the paths of righteousness for His name's sake. It is only as you go in the green pastures and besides the still waters and you get your needs met that you will be able to walk in the paths of righteousness. The Christian life is not difficult or hard, but is impossible (without God's help). "One week without prayer makes one weak." 2. **Her Revealed Insight** 3. **Her Unwavering Confidence**# SOS 1:8 The Bridegroom's Response Preached: November 22, 1978 by James R. Reynolds, Sr. > Song of Solomon 1:8 — If thou know not, O thou fairest among women, go thy way forth by the footsteps of the flock, and feed thy kids beside the shepherds' tents. ## INTRODUCTION She has been calling out to him, seeking after him, and longing for him. She desires to be near him. **Song of Solomon 1:7** Tell me, O thou whom my soul loveth, where thou feedest, where thou makest thy flock to rest at noon: for why should I be as one that turneth aside by the flocks of thy companions? When God responds and begins to talk back to us, it is not always in the way that we expect to hear. Sometimes He speaks to us in a corrective manner and a rebuke instead of in blessing. \## I. A Corrective Admonition — "If Thou Know Not" **John 14:9** Jesus saith unto him, **Have I been so long time with you, and yet hast thou not known me,**Philip? he that hath seen me hath seen the Father; and how sayest thou then, Shew us the Father? \### A. A Rebuke The Lord rebukes us to help us. Usually His rebukes are not stinging, but mild. He is rebuking her because she should have known, she has been with her, and spoken with her. She is more thrilled with Him than the wine, but yet she says here, "Where are you? How can I find you?" Here in response to her request he kindly rebukes her. ### B. A Loving Rebuke **Hebrews 12:6** For whom the Lord loveth he chasteneth, and scourgeth every son whom he receiveth. He rebukes us because He loves us. He rebukes her here not to hurt her, but to help her. ### C. An Informing Rebuke Sometimes people rebuke us and we don't know why we are getting rebuked. But, he informs her that she should know, but is ignorant of the fact of where He is. She did not know because she had been slothful in her experience, but she **should have** known. The Lord's correction gets us in line to receive His blessing! There is some obligation before we get the blessing. ## II. A Complimentary Acclamation — > O Thou Fairest Among Women," Lest she faint, he has something nice to say to her. He loves her because there is much within her that he is pleased with even though there are things that he is not pleased with. We cannot overlook the finest little area because the Lord does not. She has said to him, "I am black…like the tents of kedar." Yet, He says to her, "O Thou Fairest Among Women." How can he says this? The Lord can see our failures; is He pleased with our failures? God sees us in the merits of His Son. The best we can do is not all that God expects. ### A. Imputed Righteousness He can says this because He has done something for her. When the glory of God is upon a person they are beautiful—beautiful character and life. Imputed: *put down to your account* If we are walking in the light according to His Word, He does not see our faults and failures, but He sees His Son in us. He sees us in Him not only as at the beginning, but as the completed product. Because she has accepted of His grace, He has put down to her account of His righteousness. **Matthew 3:17** And lo a voice from heaven, saying, This is my beloved Son, in whom **I am well pleased**. **II Corinthians 5:21** For he hath made him to be sin for us, who knew no sin; that **we might be made the righteousness of God in him.** ### B. Imparted Righteousness Is it enough to have His righteousness imputed to us? Is it enough to have His righteousness put down to our account and then we live any way we want to live? THIS ACCOUNT IS GOOD **ONLY**AS I WALK IN THE LIGHT. **I John 1:7** But **if we walk in the light**, as he is in the light, we have fellowship one with another, and the blood of Jesus Christ his Son cleanseth us from all sin. There is no problem that you have that Christ can't deliver you from, but you have to want to be delivered from it. We can, but we don't only because we won't. **We must appropriate the benefits of Calvary**. Others are not my problem, but my own flesh is my problem. God wants to get us beyond the place that not only is there a daily experience of the impartation of His righteousness, but so that we may arrive at the point of perfection. He sees her in a completed state: ", *O thou fairest among women*…" (1:8) ## III. A Commanding Advertisement — > Go Thy Way Forth by the Footsteps of the Flock" ### A. Progression — "Go Thy Way Forth" ### B. Obedience — "By the Footsteps of the Flock" ## IV. A Conclusive Assignment — > Feed Thy Kids" ### A. Who is to Feed — We are to Feed Them ### B. Who is to be Fed — The Young Ones ### C. Where They are to be Fed — Guide them in the truth, and to where they'll get Truth ## CONCLUSION# SOS 1:9-11 Characteristics, Beauty and Crowning of the Bride Preached: November 29, 1978 by James R. Reynolds, Sr. \[recording lost\] > Song of Solomon 1:9-11 — I have compared thee, O my love, to a company of horses in Pharaoh's chariots. 10 Thy cheeks are comely with rows of jewels, thy neck with chains of gold. 11 We will make thee borders of gold with studs of silver. ## Introduction The Lord reveals His view of the bride’s standings with Him. The simple instructions and striking illustrations are declared to be the character of the one He is in love with. “compared” … “to a company of horses in Pharaoh's chariots” ## I. The Characteristics of the Bride **Song of Solomon 1:9** I have compared thee, O my love, to a company of horses in Pharaoh's chariots. 1. Her Swiftness **Hebrews 12:1** Wherefore seeing we also are compassed about with so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which doth so easily beset us, and let us run with patience the race that is set before us, 2. Her Understanding 3. Her Value **Psalm 116:15** **Precious**in the sight of the LORD is the death of his saints. (**Costly**are the death of God's saints.) 4. Her Beauty 5. Her Obedience **Ephesians 4:3,13** Endeavouring to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace. Till we all come in the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God, unto a perfect man, unto the measure of the stature of the fulness of Christ: ## II. The Beauty of the Bride **Song of Solomon 1:10** Thy cheeks are comely with rows of jewels, thy neck with chains of gold. 1. The Jewels Are Symbolic of Grace **Galatians 5:22,23** But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, Meekness, temperance: against such there is no law. 1. Humility **I Peter 3:4** But let it be the hidden man of the heart, in that which is not corruptible, even the ornament of a meek and quiet spirit, which is in the sight of God of great price. 2. Patience 3. Faith 2. Gold Chains Are Symbolic of Truth **John 8:32** And ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free. Righteousness — Truth **II Peter 1:4** Whereby are given unto us exceeding great and precious promises: that by these ye might be partakers of the divine nature, having escaped the corruption that is in the world through lust. ## III. The Crowning of the Bride **Song of Solomon 1:11** We will make thee borders of gold with studs of silver. 1. The Trinity is Involved — They're Concerned About Us We are living in a day were it seems like the devil does not care what he gets you tangled up in as long as he gets you off the truth. You talk about salvation, the blood, or repentance you are talking about absolute essentials. You MUST be born again. **John 3:7** Marvel not that I said unto thee, Ye must be born again. When it comes to an issue that will not effect your salvation, you do not have to tear down your whole house to prove your point. There are a lot of folks tied up with the fact that Jesus is the whole thing. To believe in 'Jesus Only' in order to be saved, is not a doctrinal absolute. In the crowing of the Bride, all three Persons are involved. "The Father thought it, the Son Bought it, and the Holy Spirit Wrought it." 1. Preparing Whether in initial, progressive, or complete state of salvation, preparation is needed. The Father is involved in finding us, convicting us, and convincing us to accept Him. That is not the complete work, but all along the way, the Father is preparing, the Son is preparing, and the Holy Ghost is preparing us. In all the affairs of Heaven, God is much concerned about us as individuals. **Matthew 10:30** But the very hairs of your head are all numbered. How much more is God concerned with our soul? The Father, the Son, and the Holy Ghost are concerned about you. 2. Perfecting A lot of people talk about perfection in the world to come. The Father, the Son, and the Holy Ghost are all involved in the Word. This Word is God's Divine, infallible Truth. In this Word, He has given five ministries for the perfecting of the saints. Will there be need of these ministries in Heaven? So, where are these ministries needed but here? The perfecting of the saints will take place here! God expects it of us and has given us provision to make it. **Ephesians 4:11-13** And he gave some, apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers; **For the perfecting of the saints**, for the work of the ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ: Till we all come in the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God, unto a perfect man, **unto the measure of the stature of the fulness of Christ:** 3. Presenting In a wedding, the Bride is given the greater honor. She is brought in by her father. **Ephesians 5:27** That he might **present it to himself** a glorious church, not having spot, or wrinkle, or any such thing; but that it should be holy and without blemish. 2. The Crown **Song of Solomon 1:11** Wewillmaketheeborders of gold with studs of silver. 1. Border — tore — means turn — crown He is not talking about something that will set on your head, but Divine truths and laws. This crown is something that He is molding and fashioning in our lives; this is something spiritual. Not just a crown for you, but is going to make you a crown! He is going to make something out of your life that far surpasses anything that is earthly and natural. 2. Gold — Divinity **I Peter 1:3-5** Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, which according to his abundant mercy hath begotten us again unto a lively hope by the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, To an inheritance incorruptible, and undefiled, and that fadeth not away, reserved in heaven for you, Who are kept by the power of God through faith unto salvation ready to be revealed in the last time. **II Peter 1:4** Whereby are given unto us exceeding great and precious promises: that by these ye might be partakers of the divine nature, having escaped the corruption that is in the world through lust. God is going to bring about in these last days a tremendous revelation of His Word that will produce a perfected people. There are multitudes of people in the church today who do not know the first thing about growing up. Sugar will eat up your energy—sweetness is no good for you, but will make you soft. Having His Divine nature, we do not have to back down to the devil. We are not a foot mat for the devil to walk on. We can resist him! **James 4:7** Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resistthedevil, and he will flee from you. **Isaiah 30:10** Which say to the seers, See not; and to the prophets, Prophesy not unto us right things, **speak unto us smooth things**, prophesy deceits: Smooth things will not strengthen you, but the truth is what will help us. The truth is what will build and make us what we ought to be for God. **II Peter 1:4** Whereby are **given unto us exceeding great and precious promises:** that**by these** ye might be partakers of the divine nature, having escaped the corruption that is in the world through lust. 3. Studded with Silver - Redemption *Studded — embossed* We become partakers of the Divine nature only because of the merits of Christ—through His redemptive work on the cross. **Revelation 4:10** The four and twenty elders fall down before him that sat on the throne, and worship him that liveth for ever and ever, and **cast their crowns before the throne**, saying, **1Corinthians 15:10** But **by the grace of God I am what I am**: and his grace which was bestowed upon me was not in vain; but I laboured more abundantly than they all: yet not I, but the grace of God which was with me. **Revelation 3:10,11** Because thou hast **kept**the word of my patience, I also will keep thee from the hour of temptation, which shall come upon all the world, to try them that dwell upon the earth. Behold, I come quickly: **hold that fast which thou hast, that no man take thy crown.** The devil takes our crown by hindering our faith. Everything we get from God is through faith. There are going to be some that won't hold on. You have got to get a hold of it first and then hold on to it! # SOS 1:12 The King's Table and His Influence preached by James R. Reynolds Sr. on December 6, 1978. > Song of Solomon 1:12 — While the king sitteth at his table, my spikenard sendeth forth the smell thereof. While the king sitteth at his table, my spikenard sendeth forth the smell thereof. Song of Solomon 1:12 1. The Table At this table, the little bride finds strength. At first she was inquiring about him and searching for him. All to once, he came in view. Maybe it was just a vision or revelation at first. Revelation 10:9 And I went unto the angel, and said unto him, Give me the little book. And he said unto me, Take it, and eat it up; and it shall make thy belly bitter, but it shall be in thy mouth sweet as honey. She moves on now from just that vision or revelation so that now she is at the king’s table. 1. A Table of Communion Not a ‘communion table’ but ‘communion with God. The communion table is only a type, but this table is the real thing. She was looking for HIM. You are going to have to hear His voice long before you get to the table. She is moving into an experience of close fellowship. There is a difference between knowing somebody and fellowshipping with them. In order to have fellowship you have to be close. She is drawing up to the table where he is and begins to fellowship with him and him with her. Psalm 42:7 Deep calleth unto deep at the noise of thy waterspouts: all thy waves and thy billows are gone over me The communion is deep. There is a place in the Spirit that God wants to bring us into where we can really enjoy our salvation. John 13:25 He then lying on Jesus' breast saith unto him, Lord, who is it? While you are sitting at His table, there is going to be peace in your heart. At His table is joy. 1. A Table of Revelation The Lord’s table is not empty. There is going to be something to feed the soul. Revelation 3:18-21 I counsel thee to buy of me gold tried in the fire, that thou mayest be rich; and white raiment, that thou mayest be clothed, and that the shame of thy nakedness do not appear; and anoint thine eyes with eyesalve, that thou mayest see. As many as I love, I rebuke and chasten: be zealous therefore, and repent. Behold, I stand at the door, and knock: if any man hear my voice, and open the door, I will come in to him, and will sup with him, and he with me. To him that overcometh will I grant to sit with me in my throne, even as I also overcame, and am set down with my Father in his throne. This is a letter that is addressed to the Laodicean church. They have taken the reigns away from Him and He is on the outside. What is it that will bring me to the table? - Listen to His Voice – Hear Voice – not just a noise like the knock, but this word means to hear the address. He wants us to listen to the admonition already given in verse 18. - Open the Door -- Obey You will find Him when you hear His voice and open the door. “will sup with him” He will set up a table right in your heart. He will find us eagle’s food—fresh slain meat! He will feed us hidden manna! The hidden manna is reserved for the Overcomer. Revelation 2:17 He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches; To him that overcometh will I give to eat of the hidden manna, and will give him a white stone, and in the stone a new name written, which no man knoweth saving he that receiveth it. He is not going to feed to us anything different than His Word, but the Word revealed. I Corinthians 2:7-10 But we speak the wisdom of God in a mystery, even the hidden wisdom, which God ordained before the world unto our glory: Which none of the princes of this world knew: for had they known it, they would not have crucified the Lord of glory. But as it is written, Eye hath not seen, nor ear heard, neither have entered into the heart of man, the things which God hath prepared for them that love him. But God hath revealed them unto us by his Spirit: for the Spirit searcheth all things, yea, the deep things of God. He is going to bring some to the banqueting table and share the deep mysteries of God. Why? Because He wants us to be an Overcomer. Revelation 3:21 To him that overcometh will I grant to sit with me in my throne, even as I also overcame, and am set down with my Father in his throne. This verse follows in sequence to verse twenty. Who is going to overcome? Him that has been sitting at the banqueting table with the king feasting on the promises! It is only as we partake of His Divine nature that we become an Overcomer. II Peter 1:4 Whereby are given unto us exceeding great and precious promises: that by these ye might be partakers of the divine nature, having escaped the corruption that is in the world through lust. “sup” greek – deipneo– the chief meal of the day He is not going to give us a sandwich. The saints have been sandwiched to death; they have had too many sermonettes. John 4:31 In the mean while his disciples prayed him, saying, Master, eat. But he said unto them, I have meat to eat that ye know not of. Therefore said the disciples one to another, Hath any man brought him ought to eat? Jesus saith unto them, My meat is to do the will of him that sent me, and to finish his work. He’ll give you meat to begin with; then He will give you strong meat. 2. The King’s Table This is no ordinary table, but is the KING’S table. How can the King come into me and have it be His table? Only by Him being king. 1. He Must Be King of My Life In order to sit with Him at His table, He must be King of my life. “If He is not Lord of All, He is not Lord at all.” There are many areas that we have not given completely to God. Do we sit at His table all the time? That shows that we are not totally committed to doing His will. We cannot hold reservations. Matthew 26:41 Watch and pray, that ye enter not into temptation: the spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak. You will never really enjoy all that He has provided for you until He is king. 1. The Self-Life Must Go You would have no problem, really, if it wasn’t for you. Our biggest problem is ourselves. We must take sides against ourselves. God is against the self-life. If we are going to sit with king at His table, then we must takes sides with Him against our self. ![](https://bible.exchange/uploads/images/gallery/2021-10/y5li-to-c.png)John 3:30 He must increase, but I must decrease. We must refuse pity for ourselves. 3. The King’s Influence Song of Solomon 1:12 While the king sitteth at his table, my spikenard sendeth forth the smell thereof. “While the king sitteth at His table” – While Jesus is king of our life! People carry a fragrance or a spirit that will affect you. The Bride’s life is affected by the bridegroom. What He is, she is becoming. Proverbs 27:17 Iron sharpeneth iron; so a man sharpeneth the countenance of his friend. Iron in Scripture is a point of view. “A man convinced against his will is of the same opinion still.” Spikenard is very costly and precious. It is usually sealed oil. 1. The Spikenard of Humility It is only as Jesus controls our heart, that we become what we ought to be for God. This aspect of Humility will never be until He sits on the throne of our hearts. Which one of us is humble? The Lord puts us through a process that we may become broken. It is only as He breaks us that we can be humble. In the years of our experience, we can talk of people who have been broken and it destroyed them and not humbled them. The reason why it destroyed them is because He was not king. If the Lord is not resident in our life and crushing experiences come they will destroy you, but if He is resident then all that will happen is the sweet fragrance of Him will come to life. Mark 14:3 And being in Bethany in the house of Simon the leper, as he sat at meat, there came a woman having an alabaster box of ointment of spikenard very precious; and she brake the box, and poured it on his head. As our lives our broken and He is resident, there is going to be sweetness. When the lord is not King, then the hard times make a person hard, bitter, stubborn, or ugly. God never does anything to help us, but is working out good for us. It takes Him to be in residence so that when we are squeezed so, the fragrance of Jesus may fill the atmosphere instead of bitterness. 1. The Spikenard of Gratitude Song of Solomon 1:5 I am black, but comely, O ye daughters of Jerusalem, as the tents of Kedar, as the curtains of Solomon. Everything we have we by His grace. It is when we understand this that we can understand true worship. John 4:23 But the hour cometh, and now is, when the true worshippers shall worship the Father in spirit and in truth: for the Father seeketh such to worship him. The bride is going to be filled with gratitude and real true worship. She will not need anyone to coax her to praise God. As you begin to worship God, His presence becomes stronger and the more you can worship. It is a cycle. It is not hard to worship when the Lord is present. # SOS 1:13-14 The Fragrance & Beauty of the Bridegroom Preached by James R. Reynolds, Sr on December 13, 1978. > Song of Solomon 1:13, 14 — A bundle of myrrh is my wellbeloved unto me; he shall lie all night betwixt my breasts. My beloved is unto me as a cluster of camphire in the vineyards of Engedi. 4. The Nature of His Fragrance 1. A Bundle of Myrrh The bridegroom is to the bride as a bundle of myrrh. He is saturating her with his own fragrance, person, and nature. Deep in the little heart of the bride, there dwells the beloved. Her whole life becomes permeated with his beautiful fragrance. The sweetness, fragrance, and beauty of Christ in the lives of the saints is beautiful. The exercise of the flesh is a rotten smell. The world does not need to see a demonstration of our ability, but the life and nature of Jesus. We need to show Christ to this dying world. John 12:20, 21 And there were certain Greeks among them that came up to worship at the feast: The same came therefore to Philip, which was of Bethsaida of Galilee, and desired him, saying, Sir, we would see Jesus. They won’t see us, but they will see Him. 1. Myrrh 1. Myrrh is a Very Fragrant Substance Myrrh reveals to us the life of Christ and His fragrance in our lives. What is it that is going to make the Christian be what they should be? The Christ in their heart, not a trying, struggling, or striving, will help you keep the law of grace. - A demonstration - A yielding - A living by faith Romans 1:17 For therein is the righteousness of God revealed from faith to faith: as it is written, The just shall live by faith. All the fragrance that is perfected in the bride will be His perfect work completed in us. It’s not enough to do the best you can, you have to let him do His best in you. This fragrance is pointing to Christ and the working of the Holy Spirit. Exodus 30:34 And the LORD said unto Moses, Take unto thee sweet spices, stacte, and onycha, and galbanum; these sweet spices with pure frankincense: of each shall there be a like weight: Matthew 5:13 Ye are the salt of the earth: but if the salt have lost his savour, wherewith shall it be salted? it is thenceforth good for nothing, but to be cast out, and to be trodden under foot of men. The fragrance represented the life of Jesus Christ. John 8:29 And he that sent me is with me: the Father hath not left me alone; for I do always those things that please him. II Peter 1:17 For he received from God the Father honour and glory, when there came such a voice to him from the excellent glory, This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased. The Father is pleased with the work of the Son in us. John 17:21-23 That they all may be one; as thou, Father, art in me, and I in thee, that they also may be one in us: that the world may believe that thou hast sent me. And the glory which thou gavest me I have given them; that they may be one, even as we are one: I in them, and thou in me, that they may be made perfect in one; and that the world may know that thou hast sent me, and hast loved them, as thou hast loved me. The only thing that will please the Father is the life of Christ manifested in the believer. It is this fragrance alone that God is after. In talking to us, He will perfect us and make us what we ought to be for Him. 2. Myrrh is Bitter Myrrh is a symbol of the suffering of Christ. We need to see the bitterness and suffering in the life of Christ. It is not enough to know that He suffered for you, but you must suffer with Him to reign with Him. II Timothy 2:12 If we suffer, we shall also reign with him: if we deny him, he also will deny us: Romans 8:17 And if children, then heirs; heirs of God, and joint-heirs with Christ; if so be that we suffer with him, that we may be also glorified together. Galatians 2:20 I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me: and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave himself for me. - Delivered at the cross - Deliverance for the old nature at the cross - Yield fully to God’s commands It will take the baptism of the Holy Ghost to help you to die the death to self. We must be identified with His death that we might be in the likeness of His resurrection. We won’t have the fragrance of His life or the attributes of His life until we first die out to self. Ephesians 4:22 That ye put off concerning the former conversation the old man, which is corrupt according to the deceitful lusts; Colossians 3:8, 9 But now ye also put off all these; anger, wrath, malice, blasphemy, filthy communication out of your mouth. Lie not one to another, seeing that ye have put off the old man with his deeds; Philippians 3:10-12 That I may know him, and the power of his resurrection, and the fellowship of his sufferings, being made conformable unto his death; If by any means I might attain unto the resurrection of the dead. Not as though I had already attained, either were already perfect: but I follow after, if that I may apprehend that for which also I am apprehended of Christ Jesus. II Corinthians 5:2, 4 For in this we groan, earnestly desiring to be clothed upon with our house which is from heaven: For we that are in this tabernacle do groan, being burdened: not for that we would be unclothed, but clothed upon, that mortality might be swallowed up of life. Romans 6:11 Likewise reckon ye also yourselves to be dead indeed unto sin, but alive unto God through Jesus Christ our Lord. Myrrh has to be crushed and broken to let its fragrance get out. Judges 7:19 So Gideon, and the hundred men that were with him, came unto the outside of the camp in the beginning of the middle watch; and they had but newly set the watch: and they blew the trumpets, and brake the pitchers that were in their hands. Psalm 51:17 The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit: a broken and a contrite heart, O God, thou wilt not despise. Isaiah 57:15 For thus saith the high and lofty One that inhabiteth eternity, whose name is Holy; I dwell in the high and holy place, with him also that is of a contrite and humble spirit, to revive the spirit of the humble, and to revive the heart of the contrite ones. It is not easy to yield to the process. There is nothing wonderful about the crushing and the breaking, but the reward of it is wonderful. Hebrews 12:11 Now no chastening seems to be joyful for the present, but painful; nevertheless, afterward it yields the peaceable fruit of righteousness to those who have been trained by it. What is the chastening going to accomplish in your life? It is going to make you what you ought to be. Ephesians 4:10, 15 He that descended is the same also that ascended up far above all heavens, that he might fill all things.) But speaking the truth in love, may grow up into him in all things, which is the head, even Christ: 2. The Duration of His Fragrance 1. Lie “Lie” means to remain or abide permanently. As he possesses her vessel, she catches the revelation. He will take up His abode and permanent residence in your heart. Matthew 28:20 Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world. Amen. Hebrews 13:5 Let your conversation be without covetousness; and be content with such things as ye have: for he hath said, I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee. John 14:21, 23 He that hath my commandments, and keepeth them, he it is that loveth me: and he that loveth me shall be loved of my Father, and I will love him, and will manifest myself to him. Jesus answered and said unto him, If a man love me, he will keep my words: and my Father will love him, and we will come unto him, and make our abode with him. Psalm 119:11 Thy word have I hid in mine heart, that I might not sin against thee. 1. All Night “All night” signifies the absence of the physical presence of the bridegroom. II Peter 1:19 We have also a more sure word of prophecy; whereunto ye do well that ye take heed, as unto a light that shineth in a dark place, until the day dawn, and the day star arise in your hearts: Job 19:26 And though after my skin worms destroy this body, yet in my flesh shall I see God: I Corinthians 13:12 For now we see through a glass, darkly; but then face to face: now I know in part; but then shall I know even as also I am known. I Corinthians 3:18 Let no man deceive himself. If any man among you seemeth to be wise in this world, let him become a fool, that he may be wise. Malachi 4:2 But unto you that fear my name shall the Sun of righteousness arise with healing in his wings; and ye shall go forth, and grow up as calves of the stall. Romans 13:12 The night is far spent, the day is at hand: let us therefore cast off the works of darkness, and let us put on the armour of light. The world events are fast gravitating to a one-world-system. - Domination of world power - One-world government - One-world money system - One-world church - One-world educational program We must cast off the works of darkness and run in the race of the Lord. 3. The Place of His Fragrance 1. The Breast 1. The Breastplate of Faith and Love I Thessalonians 5:8 But let us, who are of the day, be sober, putting on the breastplate of faith and love; and for an helmet, the hope of salvation. 1. The Breastplate of Righteousness Ephesians 6:14 Stand therefore, having your loins girt about with truth, and having on the breastplate of righteousness; I Corinthians 1:30 But of him are ye in Christ Jesus, who of God is made unto us wisdom, and righteousness, and sanctification, and redemption: Jesus is the breastplate of righteousness. How do we get the breastplate of righteousness? We get it by faith and love. Galatians 5:6 For in Jesus Christ neither circumcision availeth any thing, nor uncircumcision; but faith which worketh by love. I Peter 1:4, 5 To an inheritance incorruptible, and undefiled, and that fadeth not away, reserved in heaven for you, Who are kept by the power of God through faith unto salvation ready to be revealed in the last time. II Samuel 6:14 And David danced before the LORD with all his might; and David was girded with a linen ephod. God is going to bring us into a place of perfection by faith and love. Ephesians 3:17-19 That Christ may dwell in your hearts by faith; that ye, being rooted and grounded in love, May be able to comprehend with all saints what is the breadth, and length, and depth, and height; And to know the love of Christ, which passeth knowledge, that ye might be filled with all the fulness of God. Hebrews 6:1 Therefore leaving the principles of the doctrine of Christ, let us go on unto perfection; not laying again the foundation of repentance from dead works, and of faith toward God, God has so much for us. Colossians 2:9 For in him dwelleth all the fulness of the Godhead bodily. You will never become God, but you can receive His full substance. 1. The Heart The Heart speaks of our own self; the seat of affection and desires. Jeremiah 17:9 The heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately wicked: who can know it? Proverbs 23:26 My son, give me thine heart, and let thine eyes observe my ways. Why does God want your heart? Because He does not have control until He has your heart. He is either Lord of all or not Lord at all. He does not only want to be there present in our hearts, but He wants to rule, He wants to be Lord, He wants to be King of your life. It is so desperately hard for us to turn the reigns of government over to Him, but through the process of Christ dwelling in our hearts and our willingness to break as we come to the cross and the crossroads of our lives where we have to make decisions. It is in times like this that we shift the reigns out of our control and into His hand. Ephesians 5:22 Wives, submit yourselves unto your own husbands, as unto the Lord. It is not only a physical law, but also a spiritual law. The slain Lamb is going to have a slain bride. She is going to have a lamb-like nature and she is going to be slain. Revelation 12:11 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. Engedi- very barren waste desert with much rock- totally barren, but there is a fountain of water that gushes up out of the rock that floods the valley and nourishes the vineyard. There are beautiful flowers coming out of a barren land. Isaiah 9:6 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, Counsellor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace. Isaiah 53:2 For he shall grow up before him as a tender plant, and as a root out of a dry ground: he hath no form nor comeliness; and when we shall see him, there is no beauty that we should desire him. 4. The Beauty of the Bridegroom 1. A Cluster of Camphire Camphire- Henna flowers The camphire was very heavily fragrant and beautiful. We see the furtherance of the life of Jesus- how He is beautiful, but so fragrant. Jesus was not one that just gave us a way of life; He was the one that gave us the way of life. John 14:6 Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me. Colossians 2:9 For in him dwelleth all the fulness of the Godhead bodily. In the life of Jesus we see all the attributes of God so beautifully balanced. John 1:1 In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. 1John 5:7 For there are three that bear record in heaven, the Father, the Word, and the Holy Ghost: and these three are one. There is not just one flower, but a cluster. She is being made after his image. We were made in the image of God, but we, through the Fall, lost that lofty relationship we had with God. I Corinthians 15:49 And as we have borne the image of the earthy, we shall also bear the image of the heavenly. Romans 8:7 Because the carnal mind is enmity against God: for it is not subject to the law of God, neither indeed can be. It is going to take the grace of God, and God’s power working in your life to produce the best that God can do in you to satisfy the law. It is not the love of God that tells you that you can do as you want to; it is the love of God that tells you that you have to live according to the Bible. John 12:20, 21 And there were certain Greeks among them that came up to worship at the feast: The same came therefore to Philip, which was of Bethsaida of Galilee, and desired him, saying, Sir, we would see Jesus. Henna is the word that is used in relationship to the price of redemption. We partake of the divine nature because of the price that Jesus paid on the cross. 1. The Vineyards of Engedi Engedi had a very rocky, hard terrain. At the upper part there was a fountain that flowed down. Along the river produced by this fountain was a beautiful vineyard, out of which grew the henna flowers out of an old, bleak, barren, dearth, dry desert land. John 7:37, 38 In the last day, that great day of the feast, Jesus stood and cried, saying, If any man thirst, let him come unto me, and drink. He that believeth on me, as the scripture hath said, out of his belly shall flow rivers of living water. Ephesians 5:26 That he might sanctify and cleanse it with the washing of water by the word, Isaiah 26:3 Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on thee: because he trusteth in thee. There is not only flowers and beauty, but there is also sustenance. John 15:5 I am the vine, ye are the branches: He that abideth in me, and I in him, the same bringeth forth much fruit: for without me ye can do nothing. The same life that is in the vine is also in the branches. John 15:2 Every branch in me that beareth not fruit he taketh away: and every branch that beareth fruit, he purgeth it, that it may bring forth more fruit. # SOS 1:15 The Bridegroom's Description of the Bride Preached by James R. Reynolds, Sr. on December 20, 1978. > Song of Solomon 1:15 — Behold, thou art fair, my love; behold, thou art fair; thou hast doves' eyes. Behold, thou art fair, my love; behold, thou art fair; thou hast doves' eyes. Song of Solomon 1:15 1. The Beauty of the Bride Song of Solomon 1:5 I am black, but comely, O ye daughters of Jerusalem, as the tents of Kedar, as the curtains of Solomon. She sees herself as she is found in him—not having her own righteousness, but having the righteousness, which is by Jesus Christ. Song of Solomon 1:4 Draw me, we will run after thee… Song of Solomon 1:7 Tell me, O thou whom my soul loveth, where thou feedest, where thou makest thy flock to rest at noon… She has been applying all that she has been learning at the shepherds’ tent, and she is getting close enough now that she can distinguish his voice. Revelation 3:16 So then because thou art lukewarm, and neither cold nor hot, I will spue thee out of my mouth. If you are hearing what He is saying, you want to be thanking God. Revelation 2:29 He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches. Hosea 2:14 Therefore, behold, I will allure her, and bring her into the wilderness, and speak comfortably unto her. 1. She is Bright Bright—brilliance; the glory of God John 5:33, 35 Ye sent unto John, and he bare witness unto the truth. He was a burning and a shining light: and ye were willing for a season to rejoice in his light. Revelation 19:7 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. Matthew 17:1, 2 And after six days Jesus taketh Peter, James, and John his brother, and bringeth them up into an high mountain apart, And was transfigured before them: and his face did shine as the sun, and his raiment was white as the light. Luke 9:32 But Peter and they that were with him were heavy with sleep: and when they were awake, they saw his glory, and the two men that stood with him. The church is sleeping, and is not seeing His glory. It is not just in the person of Christ that she is not seeing it, but also she is not seeing the glory of God being made manifest in the lives of them that believe. Matthew 5:16 Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven. II Corinthians 3:18 But we all, with open face beholding as in a glass the glory of the Lord, are changed into the same image from glory to glory, even as by the Spirit of the Lord. 1. She is Beautiful She is beautiful because she is clothed with him. Romans 13:12 The night is far spent, the day is at hand: let us therefore cast off the works of darkness, and let us put on the armour of light. Romans 13:14 But put ye on the Lord Jesus Christ, and make not provision for the flesh, to fulfil the lusts thereof. II Corinthians 5:4 For we that are in this tabernacle do groan, being burdened: not for that we would be unclothed, but clothed upon, that mortality might be swallowed up of life. I Corinthians 15:54 So when this corruptible shall have put on incorruption, and this mortal shall have put on immortality, then shall be brought to pass the saying that is written, Death is swallowed up in victory. The ultimate purpose of God in our lives is that we be conformed to the image of His Son. Romans 8:29 For whom he did foreknow, he also did predestinate to be conformed to the image of his Son, that he might be the firstborn among many brethren. Romans 12:2 And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God. God can fulfill His purpose. Anything that God desires to do, He can do it. He is going to make you just like His Son, because the attributes and all that Jesus has and is, He is sharing with you. Isaiah 64:6 But we are all as an unclean thing, and all our righteousnesses are as filthy rags; and we all do fade as a leaf; and our iniquities, like the wind, have taken us away. Philippians 3:9 And be found in him, not having mine own righteousness, which is of the law, but that which is through the faith of Christ, the righteousness which is of God by faith: 2. The Insight of the Bride “…thou hast doves' eyes.” Proverbs 10:10 He that winketh with the eye causeth sorrow: but a prating fool shall fall. 1. Has Fine Eyes Fine—very keen The little bride is going to have doves’ eyes. She is going to be able to see, and she is going to be looking in the right place at the right time for the right thing. Revelation 3:18 I counsel thee to buy of me gold tried in the fire, that thou mayest be rich; and white raiment, that thou mayest be clothed, and that the shame of thy nakedness do not appear; and anoint thine eyes with eyesalve, that thou mayest see. Revelation 3:17 Because thou sayest, I am rich, and increased with goods, and have need of nothing; and knowest not that thou art wretched, and miserable, and poor, and blind, and naked: He wants them to see their condition. He then wants them to repent of the condition that they are in, and it will take the Spirit of God to do it. Matthew 16:2, 3 He answered and said unto them, When it is evening, ye say, It will be fair weather: for the sky is red. And in the morning, It will be foul weather to day: for the sky is red and lowring. O ye hypocrites, ye can discern the face of the sky; but can ye not discern the signs of the times? I Thessalonians 5:4, 5 But ye, brethren, are not in darkness, that that day should overtake you as a thief. Ye are all the children of light, and the children of the day: we are not of the night, nor of darkness. II Timothy 3:1 This know also, that in the last days perilous times shall come. Zechariah 14:6, 7 And it shall come to pass in that day, that the light shall not be clear, nor dark: But it shall be one day which shall be known to the LORD, not day, nor night: but it shall come to pass, that at evening time it shall be light. We are in the evening time, and God is revealing truth to those that are hungry and thirsty. Proverbs 4:18 But the path of the just is as the shining light, that shineth more and more unto the perfect day. I Corinthians 2:9, 10 But as it is written, Eye hath not seen, nor ear heard, neither have entered into the heart of man, the things which God hath prepared for them that love him. But God hath revealed them unto us by his Spirit: for the Spirit searcheth all things, yea, the deep things of God. The little bride is beginning to see things that she has never seen before. 1. Has Singleness of Eye One of the most beautiful things about the dove is that she has one, and only one mate. The bride is going to have a single eye. She is not going to be attracted by anything beside the bridegroom. Job 28:7 There is a path which no fowl knoweth, and which the vulture's eye hath not seen: There is a place in God that He is drawing the bride into this place with Him. The little bride, tough she might have some hard places, is not going to be drawn away. She will not look back. Luke 17:32 Remember Lot's wife Philippians 3:14 I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus # SOS 1:16-17 The Bridegroom's Bed and House Preached by James R. Reynolds, Sr. on December 27, 1978. > Song of Solomon 1:16,17 — Behold, thou art fair, my beloved, yea, pleasant: also our bed is green. 17 The beams of our house are cedar, and our rafters of fir. \[first few minutes only of the following recording\] **Song of Solomon 1:16** Behold, thou art fair, my beloved, yea, pleasant: also our bed is green. There is a place in God where we find rest. Wherever there is green grass there is some type of moisture. The moisture brings a coolness and a refreshing. **Psalm 23:2** He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: he leadeth me beside the still waters. **Green**- Healing **Blue**- The Heavenly Life **Gold**- Divinity The whole basis of our faith rests in Jesus Christ. He is the Rock of Ages. **Genesis 28:10, 11** And Jacob went out from Beersheba, and went toward Haran. And he lighted upon a certain place, and tarried there all night, because the sun was set; and **he took of the stones** of that place, **and put them for his pillows**, and lay down in that place to sleep. **John 1:51** And he saith unto him, Verily, verily, I say unto you, Hereafter ye shall see heaven open, and the angels of God ascending and descending upon the Son of man. **Song of Solomon 1:17** The beams of our house are cedar, and our rafters of fir. Cedar is that which is most durable and has a beautiful fragrance. The cedar wood speaks of the pure life of Christ. The blood of Jesus Christ is our Canopy. **Exodus 12:13** And the blood shall be to you for a token upon the houses where ye are: and **when I see the blood, I will pass over you**, and the plague shall not be upon you to destroy you, when I smite the land of Egypt.# SOS 2:1 The Preeminence of the Bridegroom Preached by James R. Reynolds, Sr. on December 27, 1978. > Song of Solomon 2:1 — I am the rose of Sharon, and the lily of the valleys. ## I. The Preeminence of His Person He is saying that He is the 'I Am,' who is the Lily of the Valleys. What He was, He is, and what He is, He always will be. 1. The Eternal One **Exodus 3:14** And God said unto Moses, I AM THAT I AM: and he said, Thus shalt thou say unto the children of Israel, I AM hath sent me unto you. Before there was anything else, He was, and after there won't be anything left, He will be. **John 8:56-58** Your father Abraham rejoiced to see my day: and he saw it, and was glad. Then said the Jews unto him, Thou art not yet fifty years old, and hast thou seen Abraham? Jesus said unto them, Verily, verily, I say unto you, **Before Abraham was, I am.** **Malachi 3:6** **For I am the LORD, I change not;** therefore ye sons of Jacob are not consumed. **Hebrews 13:8** Jesus Christ the same yesterday, and to day, and for ever. You may change your mind about Him, but He will never change His mind about you. He's in love with you, and He wants you for Himself. He will make overtures to you even while you are flirting with the world. 2. The Covenant-Keeping One **Hebrews 6:13, 14** For when God made promise to Abraham, because he could swear by no greater, he sware by himself, **Hebrews 6:17, 18** Wherein God, willing more abundantly to shew unto the heirs of promise the immutability of his counsel, confirmed it by an oath: That **by two immutable things**, in which it was impossible for God to lie, we might have a strong consolation, who have fled for refuge to lay hold upon the hope set before us: He is not only the Eternal One that exists, but He is One that is concerned with His people. **Numbers 23:19** God is not a man, that he should lie; neither the son of man, that he should repent: hath he said, and shall he not do it? or hath he spoken, and shall he not make it good? God gave seven compound covenant names to Israel. Seven is a complete number. Gad has made a total and complete covenant with His people. - Jehovah-Rophi—*The Lord Thy Physician* - Jehovah-Shalom—*The Lord Our Peace* - Jehovah-Nissi—*The Lord Our Banner* - Jehovah-Rohi—*The Lord My Shepherd* - Jehovah-Tsidkenu—*The Lord Our Righteousness* - Jehovah-Jireh—*The Lord Will Provide* - Jehovah-Shammah—*The Lord Is There* 3. The All-Powerful One God is the One that was, and brought all things into being, He is the One that is, and upholds all things by His Word, and He is the One that shall be, and keeps control of all things. **Matthew 28:18, 20b** And Jesus came and spake unto them, saying, **All power is given unto me in heaven and in earth**. and, lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world. Amen. God loves you, and He wants to do things for you. We need to read the contract. God wants us to understand all He has provided for us and to believe it. 2. The Preeminence of His Beauty "I am the rose of Sharon…" 1. The Place of the Rose **Isaiah 33:9** The earth mourneth and languisheth: Lebanon is ashamed and hewn down: **Sharon is like a wilderness**; and Bashan and Carmel shake off their fruits. **Isaiah 53:1, 2** Who hath believed our report? and to whom is the arm of the LORD revealed? For he shall grow up before him as a tender plant, and as a root out of a dry ground: he hath no form nor comeliness; and when we shall see him, there is no beauty that we should desire him. Only Jesus can bring satisfaction inside. 2. The Beauty of the Rose The rose is the most beautiful of all flowers. He is the preeminent One. 3. The Value of the Rose The value of a rose is in its beauty and its fragrance. It is in the pleasure you get from looking at and smelling it. The value of the rose is in itself. Christians are so prone to get so thrilled and excited about things. God is so much more than a source of supply. Seek the giver rather than the gift. He wants us to grasp hold of the truth of who He is. **John 1:29** The next day John seeth Jesus coming unto him, and saith, Behold the Lamb of God, which taketh away the sin of the world. **Hebrews 12:2** **Looking unto Jesus** the author and finisher of our faith; who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God. We do not love Him because of the benefits, but we love Him because we know Him. **Psalm 37:4** Delight thyself also in the LORD; and he shall give thee the desires of thine heart. 3. The Preeminence of His Character "…and the lily of the valleys." 1. The Lily is White—Purity There was no stain or mark of sin in Him; there was no color of the world in Him. **Hebrews 4:15** For we have not an high priest which cannot be touched with the feeling of our infirmities; **but was in all points tempted like as we are, yet without sin.** Jesus had the same earthly dwelling as we had, and He overcame. The same power that operated in Him will operate in the Believer. We can be as lily-white as He is. 2. The Lily Grows in the Valley He is one Lily in a whole lot of valleys. Jesus went through all valleys for us. - Jesus went through the Valley of Humiliation **I Peter 5:6** Humble yourselves therefore under the mighty hand of God, that he may exalt you in due time: **Philippians 2:7** But made himself of no reputation, and took upon him the form of a servant, and was made in the likeness of men: - Jesus went through the Valley of Rejection **Hebrews 12:11** Now no chastening for the present seemeth to be joyous, but grievous: nevertheless afterward it yieldeth the peaceable fruit of righteousness unto them which are exercised thereby. **Mark 14:50** And they all forsook him, and fled. **Matthew 27:46** And about the ninth hour Jesus cried with a loud voice, saying, Eli, Eli, lama sabachthani? that is to say, My God, my God, why hast thou forsaken me? The little bride is going to be rejected by all the daughters of Jerusalem. The church will reject you, and if she does not reject you, it is because you are one of them. When you cease to be one of them, you will be rejected. If you are willing to go through the valley, He will make you the lily. - Jesus went through the Valley of Suffering **Philippians 3:10** That I may know him, and the power of his resurrection, and **the fellowship of his sufferings**, being made conformable unto his death; If you are going to have His fragrance, you are going to have His experience. **Hebrews 12:6** For whom the Lord loveth he chasteneth, and scourgeth every son whom he receiveth. Whatever God is revealing in His Word, He will perform and perfect.
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# SOS 2:2 The Perfection of the Bride Preached by James R. Reynolds, Sr. on January 3, 1979. > Song of Solomon 2:2 — As the lily among thorns, so is my love among the daughters. ## Introduction “As the Bridegroom is, so are we.” (We are in the process) There are a people that will come to perfection in this life. He portrays Himself first: Song of Solomon 2:1 I am the rose of Sharon, and the lily of the valleys. Then He portrays His Bride: Song of Solomon 2:2 As the lily among thorns, so is my love among the daughters. He refers to the little Bride as being like Himself. This is because of her great love for Him. Does the Bible speak of any such thing as perfection? You cannot partake of the good things of God and hold onto the world at the same time. I Corinthians 1:21 For after that in the wisdom of God the world by wisdom knew not God, it pleased God by the foolishness of preaching to save them that believe. We put a lot of confidence in the educated and in what Dr. So-and-So or Professor So-and-So says. You do not know God by a lot of head knowledge, but by a lot of heart knowledge. We are going to establish first the fact of perfection; Answering the question, “Does the Bible give any indication whatsoever that we are to be perfect.” Hebrews 6:1 Therefore leaving the principles of the doctrine of Christ, let us go on unto perfection; not laying again the foundation of repentance from dead works, and of faith toward God, Ephesians 4:11-14 And he gave some, apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers; For the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ: Till we all come in the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God, unto a perfect man, unto the measure of the stature of the fulness of Christ: That we henceforth be no more children, tossed to and fro, and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the sleight of men, and cunning craftiness, whereby they lie in wait to deceive; God gave a five-fold ministry. Where are these going to be in operation? Certainly not in Heaven, but on earth. This indicates not only that the Church ought to be perfect, but that it can be perfect. How perfect? It means just what it says—PERFECT. II Corinthians 7:1 Having therefore these promises, dearly beloved, let us cleanse ourselves from all filthiness of the flesh and spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of God. They will say the doctrine of perfection is based on only one Scripture, but here are three and there are many more. Deuteronomy 19:15 One witness shall not rise up against a man for any iniquity, or for any sin, in any sin that he sinneth: at the mouth of two witnesses, or at the mouth of three witnesses, shall the matter be established. Perfection is a life in the Spirit growing up into the same stature of Jesus Christ. You can be just like Jesus. That is a much better prospect than to be like the devil! So many get so frightened at the fact when we talk about being like Jesus, but what a wonderful place the church would be if we were all like Jesus! We are not measured by deacons or by the preacher, but by Jesus. God is trying to bring us out of the delusion that you can please God and live in sin. The Bride is going to be much different than the daughters: “As a LILY among THORNS.” The whole Church will not come to perfection until after three-and-a-half years of tribulation. The Church tonight is anything but a lily, and she is quite thorny. Preaching will not correct them; preachers that preach truth will be thrown out. It will take an awful time of persecution. “The Church is filled with politics, positions, and paychecks.” The Gospel is not a job or occupation, but is a call. “If the thing \[Gospel\] doesn’t grip your heart, and you are planning on going in the ministry, you get on your knees first until it grips your heart. Until it gets right a hold of you so you can’t sleep, you can’t eat, for the vision of souls you see going into hell!” I Corinthians 9:16 For though I preach the gospel, I have nothing to glory of: for necessity is laid upon me; yea, woe is unto me, if I preach not the gospel! There is a tremendous need. There are an awful lot of thorns and bramble bushes. God needs somebody to plant some seed and grow some wheat and some lilies. 1. Perfection of Nature - “Lily” He is speaking concerning the Bride as Himself. Jesus was perfect in all His ways. There was not a single flaw in Jesus. He says “I am the Lily”, and that she is as the Lily. 1. It’s Purity - Whiteness of the Lily There was no mar, no stain in Jesus, and the little Bride is going to be the same. We want to love him with all, but we find areas that we don’t. God is still looking for a people that will perfect holiness. To what extant though? I John 3:1-3 Behold, what manner of love the Father hath bestowed upon us, that we should be called the sons of God: therefore the world knoweth us not, because it knew him not. Beloved, now are we the sons of God, and it doth not yet appear what we shall be: but we know that, when he shall appear, we shall be like him; for we shall see him as he is. And every man that hath this hope in him purifieth himself, even as he is pure. First, you have to know something. You must understand that God has something more. That God has given to us great promises. How can I purify myself? There is a provision by the cross not just simple deliverance from the old life, but also from the power of sin. When Jesus died on the cross He crushed him that had the power of death. I can come to the cross! purifieth himself, even as he is pure”! God wants us to be conformed, having the same nature as Himself, just as pure as the lily. 1. It’s Fragrance The lily has a smell of its own. It isn’t something that knocks you over, but it is sweet. There is a sweet fragrance about those that really walk with God. Where did they get that? They got so close to the Lily that they got some of the Lily on them! His little Bride is going to be just like Him in all aspects. 1. It’s Humility The lily grows in the valleys, the lowlands. You will never climb onto the mountains of revelation until you have traveled through the deep struggles of the valley. It will cost you everything to KNOW Him. The lily is harmless; there is nothing hurtful about a lily. As a Christian you do not have to love everything that comes along, but you should rebuke false doctrine. It takes the love of God to tell a man he is wrong when he is wrong. II Timothy 4:2 Preach the word; be instant in season, out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort with all longsuffering and doctrine. --Humble, steadfast, harmless, holy, yet longsuffering-- There is a vast difference between ‘Holy’ and ‘Holier-than-Thou.’ Some are so proud that they are humble. Holiness is walking with Jesus as he would walk, or walking in His footsteps. 2. Perfection of Character There is a difference between perfection of nature and perfection of character. You can always be something, and yet not always show that. “the lily among thorns” 1. Gentleness Work on those areas in our character that are ‘sharp, cutting.’ Her speech won’t cut. Colossians 4:6 Let your speech be alway with grace, seasoned with salt, that ye may know how ye ought to answer every man. “Go ahead, win the argument … but lose the soul.” It takes a big person to shut their mouth when they could say so much. Acts 8:32 The place of the scripture which he read was this, He was led as a sheep to the slaughter; and like a lamb dumb before his shearer, so opened he not his mouth: The Bride will be gentle in her speech, actions, and reactions. When you feel the contrary rising up in you, pray: “God, you get that out of me. I want to be a lily.” Actions are not always as vicious as words. The lily is among thorns, but does not have any thorns. 1. Goodness Goodness requires faith. In order to do right for right’s sake, it takes faith to stand and stand alone if necessary. Galatians 5:22 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, I would rather be one lily amongst a thousand thorns, than to be one thorn amongst the thousands. Lilies don’t act like thorns; they don’t smell like thorns. It takes faith when you have to stand alone, and when circumstances rise up against you to do what is right. 1. Love of Perfection Words are so cheap. You can say things with your mouth and it doesn’t cost you anything. I John 3:17 But whoso hath this world's good, and seeth his brother have need, and shutteth up his bowels of compassion from him, how dwelleth the love of God in him? We have some of it, because we have been touched by Divine love. I Corinthians 13:1 Though I speak with the tongues of men and of angels, and have not charity, I am become as sounding brass, or a tinkling cymbal (Read the entire chapter of I Corinthians 13.) # SOS 2:3 The Blessedness of the Bridegroom Preached by James R. Reynolds, Sr. on January 10, 1979. > Song of Solomon 2:3 — As the apple tree among the trees of the wood, so is my beloved among the sons. I sat down under his shadow with great delight, and his fruit was sweet to my taste. ## Introduction He not only blesses, but His very presence is a blessing. Is there someone you enjoy to be with more than anyone else? Their presence alone is a blessing to you. There is none like Him. > Song 5:10 My beloved is white and ruddy, the chiefest among ten thousand. He loved us long before we loved Him. We did not love Him to enable Him to love us; He loved us to enable us to love Him. > I John 4:19 — We love him, because he first loved us. He loved, He is loving, and He will yet love. **I Peter 1:8** Whom having not seen, ye love; in whom, though now ye see him not, yet believing, **ye rejoice with joy unspeakable and full of glory:** **James 4:8a** Draw nigh to God, and he will draw nigh to you. ## I. As a Fruitful Tree "As the apple tree among the trees of the wood, so is my beloved among the sons" *Tappawach—*fruit bearing trees 1. The Trees of the Wood There are many trees in the forest, but there is only one Saviour. The trees of the woods have no fruit; they're barren. 2. The Apple Tree The apple tree not only produces fruit, but it also reproduces itself. The fruit will bare the semblance as the original—unless worms get at it. He is going to reproduce Himself in a tremendous manifestation of the power of God in the lives of His people by the Word. 3. The Contrast 1. The trees of the forest are like men's theories **John 5:39** Search the scriptures; for in them ye think ye have eternal life: and they are they which testify of me. Man is producing something today, but he is not producing the gifts of the spirit. **John 8:32** And ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free. **I Corinthians 12:31** But covet earnestly the best gifts: and yet shew I unto you a more excellent way. **I Corinthians 13:1** Though I speak with the tongues of men and of angels, and have not charity, I am become as sounding brass, or a tinkling cymbal. **Job 8:14** Whose hope shall be cut off, and whose trust shall be a spider's web. **I Corinthians 3:3** **For ye are yet carnal**: for whereas there is among you envying, and strife, and divisions, are ye not carnal, and walk as men? **I Corinthians 3:1** And I, brethren, could not speak unto you as unto spiritual, but as unto carnal, even as unto babes in Christ. God is doing something in our lives as we are exposed to the truth. **John 3:30** He must increase, but I must decrease. What the teachings of men produce, if they produce anything at all, is going to be wild and bitter. The devil cannot stop you from hungering and thirsting, so he will try to poison you and kill you. The devil will feed you a little bit of truth to get you on the line to feed you a whole lot of error. It is the Word that will put life in you and make you like Jesus. 2. The trees of the forest are like the works of the flesh The works of the flesh will never produce spiritual people. **Matthew 21:19** And when he saw a fig tree in the way, he came to it, and found **nothing**thereon, **but leaves only**, and said unto it, Let no fruit grow on thee henceforward for ever. And presently the fig tree withered away. **II Chronicles 23:19** And he set the porters at the gates of the house of the LORD, that none which was unclean in any thing should enter in. **Matthew 7:13, 14** Enter ye in at the strait gate: for wide is the gate, and broad is the way, that leadeth to destruction, and many there be which go in thereat: Because strait is the gate, and narrow is the way, which leadeth unto life, and **few**there be that find it. 3. Christ is the apple tree All the other trees produce nothing, but Christ satisfies the soul—totally. He not only has truth, but He is the Truth. He not only has a way, but He is the Way. He not only has life, but He is Life. **John 14:6** Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me. He meets the need, fills the vacuum, and thrills you. ## II. As a Restful Shadow > I sat down under his shadow with great delight…" 1. I Sat Down **Psalms 127:1** Except the LORD build the house, they labour in vain that build it: except the LORD keep the city, the watchman waketh but in vain. There is a place that the little bride is going to enter into that's not by works, but by faith. **II Chronicles 20:17** Ye shall not need to fight in this battle: set yourselves, stand ye still, and see the salvation of the LORD with you, O Judah and Jerusalem: fear not, nor be dismayed; to morrow go out against them: for the LORD will be with you. It's not going to be a struggling, but a yielding. **Psalms 23:4, 5** Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me. Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies: thou anointest my head with oil; my cup runneth over. **Mark 10:27** And Jesus looking upon them saith, With men it is impossible, but not with God: for with God all things are possible. **Song of Solomon 1:4** **Draw me, we will run after thee**: the king hath brought me into his chambers: we will be glad and rejoice in thee, we will remember thy love more than wine: the upright love thee. 2. Under His Shadow **Psalms 91:1-7** He that dwelleth in the secret place of the most High shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty. I will say of the LORD, He is my refuge and my fortress: my God; in him will I trust. Surely he shall deliver thee from the snare of the fowler, and from the noisome pestilence. He shall cover thee with his feathers, and under his wings shalt thou trust: his truth shall be thy shield and buckler. Thou shalt not be afraid for the terror by night; nor for the arrow that flieth by day; Nor for the pestilence that walketh in darkness; nor for the destruction that wasteth at noonday. A thousand shall fall at thy side, and ten thousand at thy right hand; but it shall not come nigh thee. There is a place of shade from the heat of the day. If you step outside of the shadow you'll blister and burn. **Psalms 18:2** The LORD is my rock, and my fortress, and my deliverer; my God, my strength, in whom I will trust; my buckler, and the horn of my salvation, and my high tower. **Psalms 121:3** He will not suffer thy foot to be moved: he that keepeth thee will not slumber. **I John 1:7** But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship one with another, and the blood of Jesus Christ his Son cleanseth us from all sin. He has not promised to protect you when you get out from underneath the blood. 3. With Great Delight There is joy in knowing that your sins are washed away. There is not a happier person on all the face of the earth than the saint that is walking in right fellowship with God. **Psalms 16:11** Thou wilt shew me the path of life: in thy presence is fulness of joy; at thy right hand there are pleasures for evermore. **John 15:7** If ye abide in me, and my words abide in you, ye shall ask what ye will, and it shall be done unto you. There is joy in knowing that nothing can touch you as long as you're abiding under the shadow. ## III. As a Satisfying Substance > …and his fruit was sweet to my taste." **Revelation 10:9, 10** And I went unto the angel, and said unto him, Give me the little book. And he said unto me, Take it, and eat it up; and it shall make thy belly bitter, but it shall be in thy mouth sweet as honey. And I took the little book out of the angel's hand, and ate it up; and it was in my mouth sweet as honey: and as soon as I had eaten it, my belly was bitter. **Revelation 2:7** He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches; To him that overcometh will I give to eat of the tree of life, which is in the midst of the paradise of God. **Revelation 22:2** In the midst of the street of it, and on either side of the river, was there the tree of life, which bare twelve manner of fruits, and yielded her fruit every month: and the leaves of the tree were for the healing of the nations. **Twelve-**A Heavenly perfection **Matthew 4:4** But he answered and said, It is written, Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceedeth out of the mouth of God. 1. The Fruit is Sweet The Word of God is very bitter to the natural man, but it's sweet to the real, genuine believer. **I John 5:3** For this is the love of God, that we keep his commandments: and his commandments are not grievous. **Hebrews 4:12** For the word of God is quick, and powerful, and sharper than any twoedged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart. **Psalms 34:8** O taste and see that the LORD is good: blessed is the man that trusteth in him. 2. The Fruit is Perfect It is not old and rotten, but it is fresh. **Psalms 19:7** The law of the LORD is perfect, converting the soul: the testimony of the LORD is sure, making wise the simple. The pure Word of God has life and it will do something for you. **Psalms 1:1-3** Blessed is the man that walketh not in the counsel of the ungodly, nor standeth in the way of sinners, nor sitteth in the seat of the scornful. **But his delight is in the law of the LORD; and in his law doth he meditate day and night.** And he shall be like a tree planted by the rivers of water, that bringeth forth his fruit in his season; his leaf also shall not wither; and whatsoever he doeth shall prosper. 3. The Fruit is Ever-Growing **Matthew 16:18** And I say also unto thee, That thou art Peter, and upon this rock I will build my church; and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it.# SOS 2:4-6 The Banqueting House Preached by James R. Reynolds, Sr. on January 24, 1979. > Song of Solomon 2:4-6 — He brought me to the banqueting house, and his banner over me was love. 5 Stay me with flagons, comfort me with apples: for I am sick of love. 6 His left hand is under my head, and his right hand doth embrace me. He brought me to the banqueting house, and his banner over me was love. Song of Solomon 2:4 The little bride is brought into the banqueting house, which is a definite work for divine grace in the lives of those who are hungry for the better things of God. Notice the progress of the bride as she has been running after the bridegroom: She knows he is there and has a great desire to get closer to him. She expresses herself— Song of Solomon 1:4a Draw me, we will run after thee: Her heart hungers after truth— Song of Solomon 1:7 Tell me, O thou whom my soul loveth, where thou feedest Follow the old sheep as they follow the shepherd until you can distinguish the voice of the Great Shepherd. The bridegroom has taken the bride into different cambers and now into the banqueting house. There is growth and progression in experience and a progression of divine revelation and understanding of the great plan of God. It is a banqueting in the Spirit-fellowshipping with God in the Spirit. I Corinthians 1:9 God is faithful, by whom ye were called unto the fellowship of his Son Jesus Christ our Lord. I John 1:3 That which we have seen and heard declare we unto you, that ye also may have fellowship with us: and truly our fellowship is with the Father, and with his Son Jesus Christ. I John 1:6,7 If we say that we have fellowship with him, and walk in darkness, we lie, and do not the truth: But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship one with another, and the blood of Jesus Christ his Son cleanseth us from all sin. Job 28:7 There is a path which no fowl knoweth, and which the vulture's eye hath not seen: 1. The Involvement with the Banquet “He brought me to the banqueting house…” 1. How She is Brought She is brought through his drawing and leading. It is not enough for you to desire or long for Him, but He is the one that is going to bring you. “He brought me” There is interplay of the Word of truth and faith—He gives us His Word and we must act upon it by faith. We must believe that Word. God will give you feeling, but only in response to your faith. The necessary thing is to believe God and His Word. The bridegroom is trying to bring her into the banqueting house and she, like Rebekah, said, “I will go.” Gen 24:58 And they called Rebekah, and said unto her, Wilt thou go with this man? And she said, I will go. 2. Who is Brought “brought me” - Not the whole family - Not the whole body - Not the whole house of faith - Not all the daughters of Jerusalem The daughters of Jerusalem are preoccupied by other things. The watchmen on the wall do not know where He is. - Not everybody, but only those that follow hard after Him even thought the way gets hard There is a hunger in the heart of this woman to go all the way to serve God and do His will. 3. To What She is Brought “to the banqueting house…” Up to this time this is the most intimate place of fellowship and communion that this little lady is given. In this banqueting house there are only two with tables and all the rest are servants attending to those two. Hebrews 1:14 Are they not all ministering spirits, sent forth to minister for them who shall be heirs of salvation? It takes one hundred percent top get to the banqueting house. God has made some tremendous promises to us, but we must move into them. God will make some willing to be totally consecrated and committed to Him. We will not just have doctrine, but we will see the dynamics of the doctrine. 2. The Banner of the Banquet “…and his banner over me was love.” 1. The Banner Represents Who He is “…his banner…” ‘Love’ is His name and His nature. I John 4:8 He that loveth not knoweth not God; for God is love. I John 4:16 There is no fear in love; but perfect love casteth out fear: because fear hath torment. He that feareth is not made perfect in love. Jeremiah 31:3 The LORD hath appeared of old unto me, saying, Yea, I have loved thee with an everlasting love: therefore with lovingkindness have I drawn thee. I Peter 5:7 Casting all your care upon him; for he careth for you. He conquered us by His love. He won His kingdom by His love. 2. The Banner Represents Ownership “…his banner over me…” He wants us for Himself. She is his and no one else’s. None of the world is to touch us or clutter up our mind. We must meditate on the Word of God. I Corinthians 6:20 For ye are bought with a price: therefore glorify God in your body, and in your spirit, which are God's. I Corinthians 7:23 Ye are bought with a price; be not ye the servants of men. 3. The Banner Speaks of Protection We are under the blood. We are safe from demon spirits. 3. The Provisions of the Banquet Song of Solomon 2:5 Stay me with flagons, comfort me with apples: for I am sick of love. 1. Banquet Wine or Flagons This is the wine that is of the Spirit. It has a stimulant, it meets your personal needs, and it makes you strong where you are weak. Drink of the place of the new wine of the Spirit and you will become so filled with His Spirit that your weakness will go. “Stay me with flagons…” Ephesians 5:18 And be not drunk with wine, wherein is excess; but be filled with the Spirit; We should pray that He would make us strong by a greater supply. The word ‘baptism’ has the thought of emersion in it, but also a continual plunging in the spirit. We would have so few problems if we would continue to plunge into the Spirit. The Spirit will come like an ocean wave—waves of glory—wave after wave being filled with His Spirit. We must acknowledge that we have weakness, but also believe that God is able to ‘stay’ us. Galatians 5:16 This I say then, Walk in the Spirit, and ye shall not fulfill the lust of the flesh. If we are going to walk in the Spirit we have to obey. Banqueting wine is for those that walk with Him in obedience. 2. Banquet Fruit “…comfort me with apples…” We need to be comforted with the fruit of the truth. Little things and even things that seem good have to leave our lives so that God can give us something better. He wants to take some of those things out of our lives that are natural. It may be some good traits, but even our goodness has to go. 3. Banquet Love “…for I am sick of love.” The bride wants more. Psalm 42:2 My soul thirsteth for God, for the living God: when shall I come and appear before God? 4. The Nature of the Banquet It is a banquet of espousal. The church is not the bride, but there is a group within the church and they will go after Him. At this time the process takes place and there is no closer communion or fellowship found than in this banqueting house. It is so close that she becomes a part of him. God wants all of us and not just our body, and He wants to mold and fashion us into His own image and likeness. Genesis 1:26 And God said, Let us make man in our image, after our likeness: and let them have dominion over the fish of the sea, and over the fowl of the air, and over the cattle, and over all the earth, and over every creeping thing that creepeth upon the earth. Romans 6:5 For if we have been planted together in the likeness of his death, we shall be also in the likeness of his resurrection: Romans 8:29 For whom he did foreknow, he also did predestinate to be conformed to the image of his Son, that he might be the firstborn among many brethren. I Corinthians 15:49 And as we have borne the image of the earthy, we shall also bear the image of the heavenly. II Corinthians 3:18 But we all, with open face beholding as in a glass the glory of the Lord, are changed into the same image from glory to glory, even as by the Spirit of the Lord. II Corinthians 4:11 For we which live are always delivered unto death for Jesus' sake, that the life also of Jesus might be made manifest in our mortal flesh. Philippians 3:21 Who shall change our vile body, that it may be fashioned like unto his glorious body, according to the working whereby he is able even to subdue all things unto himself. Song of Solomon 2:6 His left hand is under my head, and his right hand doth embrace me. - His left hand—The sustaining force of God - His right hand—The manifested grace of God # SOS 2:7 The Bride's Charge Preached by James R. Reynolds, Sr. on January 31, 1979. > Song of Solomon 2:7 — I charge you, O ye daughters of Jerusalem, by the roes, and by the hinds of the field, that ye stir not up, nor awake my love, till he please. The little bride is charging the daughters of Jerusalem She has been drawn on into some deep experiences with God, We have found her in different chambers, we have found her with a holy desire to know where He is feeding His flock and she wants to be amongst those that are being fed, knowing that as she receives what He is giving—it will strengthen her to run even closer to Him. Now as she moves on in this banqueting house this is a very close communion and fellowship that she has entered into. And now because she has tasted of the sweetness and the grace and the goodness of her Beloved She does **not one**thing to disturb that. So she charges those that are around her not to disturb Him in any way. - Not to disturb Him around her - Not to disturb within her Hang on to what God has given you!!! **11 Timothy 1:13** **Hebrews 3:6; 9:14; 10:23** **Revelation 2:25; 3:3** Holding fast to what she has. **Ezra 8:24-34** Then I separated twelve of the chief of the priests, Sherebiah, Hashabiah, and ten of their brethren with them, And weighed unto them the silver, and the gold, and the vessels, even the offering of the house of our God, which the king, and his counsellors, and his lords, and all Israel there present, had offered: I even weighed unto their hand six hundred and fifty talents of silver, and silver vessels an hundred talents, and of gold an hundred talents; Also twenty basons of gold, of a thousand drams; and two vessels of fine copper, precious as gold. And I said unto them, Ye are holy unto the LORD; the vessels are holy also; and the silver and the gold are a freewill offering unto the LORD God of your fathers. Watch ye, and keep them, until ye weigh them before the chief of the priests and the Levites, and chief of the fathers of Israel, at Jerusalem, in the chambers of the house of the LORD. So took the priests and the Levites the weight of the silver, and the gold, and the vessels, to bring them to Jerusalem unto the house of our God. Then we departed from the river of Ahava on the twelfth day of the first month, to go unto Jerusalem: and the hand of our God was upon us, and he delivered us from the hand of the enemy, and of such as lay in wait by the way. And we came to Jerusalem, and abode there three days. Now on the fourth day was the silver and the gold and the vessels weighed in the house of our God by the hand of Meremoth the son of Uriah the priest; and with him was Eleazar the son of Phinehas; and with them was Jozabad the son of Jeshua, and Noadiah the son of Binnui, Levites; By number and by weight of every one: and all the weight was written at that time. **God is going to require of us what He has given to us.** **Revelation 3:11** Behold, I come quickly: hold that fast which thou hast, that no man take thy crown. 1. The object of the charge 1. The charge is to a particular group 1. The daughters of Jerusalem There is a vast difference between the family, **(the daughters, the church, the body)** and the bride. Why didn't she speak to all the rest? They were not bothering her. She addressed those that were causing the trouble. It's one thing to hear His word and it is another thing to apply the truth, we need to have the truth in our soul and let nothing disturb or drive Him out of our lives. 2. The daughters are many. 6:8-9 When we speak of the body we think of many members, but when we speak of the bride we think of one. **John 17:11** And now I am no more in the world, but these are in the world, and I come to thee. Holy Father, keep through thine own name those whom thou hast given me, that they may be one, as we are. The bride is united in purpose, motive and action in mind and in spirit. **Song of Solomon 6:8,9** There are threescore queens, and fourscore concubines, and virgins without number. My dove, my undefiled **is but one**; she is the only one of her mother, she is **the choice one** of her that bare her. The daughters saw her, and blessed her; yea, the queens and the concubines, and they praised her. **Ephesians 4:3** Endeavouring to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace. **Ephesians 3:13** Till we all come in the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God, unto a perfect man, unto the measure of the stature of the fulness of Christ: **Hebrews 12:2** **Looking unto Jesus** the author and finisher of our faith; who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God. The little bride will keep herself single only looking unto Him. **Romans 9** For this is the word of promise, At this time will I come, and Sara shall have a son. Only one son of promise. The charge is that they are many—all kinds—of ways, so she is charging them to awaken themselves because **it is soon going to be too late.** 3. The daughters are Lacking They are being charged because they are lacking and following afar off. **Song of Solomon 2:7** I charge you, O ye daughters of Jerusalem, by the roes, and by the hinds of the field, that ye stir not up, nor awake my love, till he please. **Song of Solomon 3:5** I charge you, O ye daughters of Jerusalem, by the roes, and by the hinds of the field, that ye stir not up, nor awake my love, till he please. **Song of Solomon 8:4** I charge you, O daughters of Jerusalem, that ye stir not up, nor awake my love, until he please. **Revelation 2:7** He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches; To him that overcometh will I give to eat of the tree of life, which is in the midst of the paradise of God. **Revelation 2:11** He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches; He that overcometh shall not be hurt of the second death. **Revelation 2:17** He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches; To him that overcometh will I give to eat of the hidden manna, and will give him a white stone, and in the stone a new name written, which no man knoweth saving he that receiveth it. **Revelation 2:29** He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches. **Revelation 3:6** He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches. **Revelation 3:13** He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches. **Revelation 3:22** He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches. **Revelation 3:20** Behold, I stand at the door, and knock: if any man hear my voice, and open the door, I will come in to him, and will sup with him, and he with me. 2. The scope of the charge **Song of Solomon 2:7** I charge you, O ye daughters of Jerusalem, by the roes, and by the hinds of the field, that ye stir not up, nor awake my love, till he please. 1. Teaching them a lesson through illustration of the roes and the hinds. 1. Their speed If we are going to be in the race we are going to have to run. **Hebrews 12:1** Wherefore seeing we also are compassed about with so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which doth so easily beset us, and **let us run**with patience the race that is set before us, **II Corinthians 9:24** Know ye not that they which run in a race run all, but one receiveth the prize? So run, that ye may obtain. **Song of Solomon 1:4** **Draw me, we will run after thee**: the king hath brought me into his chambers: we will be glad and rejoice in thee, we will remember thy love more than wine: the upright love thee. **Hebrews 12:2** **Looking unto Jesus** the author and finisher of our faith; who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God. 2. Their hearing She charges them to hear the sound of His voice. I want a sensitive ear to hear Him, an ear to hear His footsteps. **I Peter 2:21** For even hereunto were ye called: because Christ also suffered for us, leaving us an example, **that ye should follow his steps:** 3. Their wisdom **Luke 16:8** And the lord commended the unjust steward, because he had done wisely: for the children of this world are in their generation wiser than the children of light. **Hebrews 5:14** But strong meat belongeth to them that are of full age, even those who by reason of use have their senses exercised to discern both good and evil. **James 1:5** If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him. We need wisdom to walk with Him. **Psalm 45:2** Thou art fairer than the children of men: grace is poured into thy lips: therefore God hath blessed thee for ever. **Revelation 3:18** I counsel thee to buy of me gold tried in the fire, that thou mayest be rich; and white raiment, that thou mayest be clothed, and that the shame of thy nakedness do not appear; and **anoint thine eyes with eyesalve, that thou mayest see.** 3. The Content of the charge 1. Don't stir Him up 1. Do not Compromise 1. By neglect **Hebrews 2:3** How shall we escape, if we **neglect**so great salvation; which at the first began to be spoken by the Lord, and was confirmed unto us by them that heard him; 2. By conversation You can not keep Christ resting in your life with any disturbances. 2. Do not sin **I Corinthians 15:34** Awake to righteousness, and sin not; for some have not the knowledge of God: I speak this to your shame. 3. Do His will **Luke 22:42** Saying, Father, if thou be willing, remove this cup from me: nevertheless not my will, but thine, be done. # SOS 2:8 The Approach of the Bridegroom Preached by James R. Reynolds, Sr. on February 7, 1979. > Song of Solomon 2:8 — he voice of my beloved! behold, he cometh leaping upon the mountains, skipping upon the hills. ## Introduction: The Bridegroom is coming to the bride again. He withdrew from her because she withdrew from him. Why does He withdraw from us? He withdraws from us for two reasons: He wants us to grow up, and we do little things to grieve Him. We have to watch our thoughts and our words. Our words not only grieve the people that hear them, but they also grieve God. **Proverbs 25:11** A word fitly spoken is like apples of gold in pictures of silver. **Revelation 2:4** Nevertheless I have somewhat against thee, because thou hast left thy first love. If you do not have time for prayer, He will not have time for you. It is just as disobedient to not listen when the Spirit talks to you as if you went out and sinned. The sins of commission are in the same category as the sins of omission. When you fear you are doubting and thus you are sinning. **Romans 14:23** And he that doubteth is damned if he eat, because he eateth not of faith: for whatsoever is not of faith is sin. There was a wonderful relationship between them and now He's gone. Between verse 7 and verse 8 she has slacked and He has withdrawn. 1. The Bride's Response to His Approach "*The voice of my beloved! Behold he cometh…"* We delay the Lord coming to us personally by our guilt and shame. 1. She Hears His voice **Revelation 3:20** Behold, I stand at the door, and knock: if any man hear my voice, and open the door, I will come in to him, and will sup with him, and he with me. Sometimes He is speaking and we do not hear Him, and other times we have to wait until He does speak. There are going to be some that hear His voice. We do not only need Him to speak, but we also need to get into a place where we can hear Him speaking. When He begins to speak, it is just like music in her heart. It is sad for folks not to hear Him at all, but it is even sadder for folks to once hear the voice of God and then cease to hear it. **I Samuel 28:15** And Samuel said to Saul, Why hast thou disquieted me, to bring me up? And Saul answered, I am sore distressed; for the Philistines make war against me, and God is departed from me, and answereth me no more, neither by prophets, nor by dreams: therefore I have called thee, that thou mayest make known unto me what I shall do. 2. She Knows His Voice **John 10:27** My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me: **Romans 8:14** For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, they are the sons of God. You have to hear something in order to be lead by it. **II Corinthians 11:14** And no marvel; for Satan himself is transformed into an angel of light. They may look like the real thing, and they might almost sound like the real thing, but if you listen carefully you will get the distinction of sound. **Revelation 2:29** He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches. **Ephesians 4:14** That we henceforth be no more children, tossed to and fro, and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the sleight of men, and cunning craftiness, whereby they lie in wait to deceive; 3. She Rejoices at His Voice "…*Behold he cometh…"* She is so happy that he is returning. She does not keep Him waiting like she had at other times. **Song of Solomon 5:2-3** I sleep, but my heart waketh: it is the voice of my beloved that knocketh, saying, Open to me, my sister, my love, my dove, my undefiled: for my head is filled with dew, and my locks with the drops of the night. I have put off my coat; how shall I put it on? I have washed my feet; how shall I defile them? **Song of Solomon 5:6** I opened to my beloved; but my beloved had withdrawn himself, and was gone: my soul failed when he spoke: I sought him, but I could not find him; I called him, but he gave me no answer. This time she opens the door and starts making some commitments to him. It is one thing to make a vow, and it is another thing to keep it. She wants him to totally have his way because she does not want him to leave again. If you really had Him—His blessing and His presence—and then lost it, if you ever get it back, you do not want it to go again. II. The manner of His Approach. "…*behold, he cometh leaping upon the mountains, skipping upon the hills."* 1. It is Beautiful His coming is always beautiful. **Isaiah 52:7** How beautiful upon the mountains are the feet of him that bringeth good tidings, that publisheth peace; that bringeth good tidings of good, that publisheth salvation; that saith unto Zion, Thy God reigneth! **Malachi 4:2** But unto you that fear my name shall the Sun of righteousness arise with healing in his wings; and ye shall go forth, and grow up as calves of the stall. Light is always stringer than darkness. When light comes the darkness has to go. When the joy of the Lord comes despair has to go. 2. It is Fulfillment There are significant prophecies and promises throughout the Bible in relation to Christ. He wants to fulfill every promise, but He wants us to believe. **II Peter 1:4** Whereby are given unto us exceeding great and precious promises: that by these ye might be partakers of the divine nature, having escaped the corruption that is in the world through lust. 3. It is Victorious "…*he cometh leaping upon the mountains, skipping upon the hills."* The mountains speak of many different things, one being the mountains of sin and condemnation—those things that seem to be insurmountable. If you see Him coming, He takes your 'little' problems and skips right over them. He is the victor and not a victim. There are also mountains of fear and unbelief. We have such a hard time with fear and unbelief, but here He comes. Fear is nothing to Him. There is victory over every problem you have. **Nahum 1:5** The mountains quake at him, and the hills melt, and the earth is burned at his presence, yea, the world, and all that dwell therein. **Zechariah 14:4** And his feet shall stand in that day upon the mount of Olives, which is before Jerusalem on the east, and the mount of Olives shall cleave in the midst thereof toward the east and toward the west, and there shall be a very great valley; and half of the mountain shall remove toward the north, and half of it toward the south.
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# SOS 2:9 Revelations of the Bridegroom Preached by James R. Reynolds, Sr. on February 14, 1979. > Song of Solomon 1:15 — Song of Solomon Lesson 18 Pr 5:19 Let her be as the loving hind and pleasant roe; let her breasts satisfy thee at all times; and be thou ravished always with her love. Song 4:5 Thy two breasts are like two young roes that are twins, which feed among the lilies. Song 7:3 Thy two breasts are like two young roes that are twins. My beloved is like a roe or a young hart: behold, he standeth behind our wall, he looketh forth at the windows, shewing himself through the lattice. Song of Solomon 2:9 ## INTRODUCTION This is a powerful and wonderful message with a choice verse. The Holy Spirit is leading us into some wonderful things. If you don’t understand these things, put it on the shelf for a while and pray about it. # Revelations of the Bride Groom God wants us to see Him above and beyond anything else. “My beloved” - The Gift and the Giver Like a roe and a young hart -In swiftness and beauty. He is coming to me with all speed and will not tarry a moment beyond the proper season. He standeth behind our wall there is a wall between us but He is not far from us. The Wall, the windows, Through the lattice intimate that the church does indeed see Christ, but, as through a glass, darkly, as it is said even of gospel-revelations.1Cor. 13:12 We need to have some Revelations of Him. There are some tremendous things revealed here, in relationship to the Bride Groom. ## There are three things in relationship of the Revelations of the Bride Groom. Revelation of His Redemption Revelation of His Providence Revelation of His Person 1. Revelation of His Redemption 2:9 “behold, he standeth behind our wall” - People will try to teach you that God is far off from man. 36. Personal experience, you find the devil trying to convince you that God is far off. - The devil will try to convince you that God doesn’t want any more to do with you. The Lord is nearer to us than our hands and our feet. God has not left us, God has not forsaken us, Man has a problem, humanity has found itself in a deep hole. Dry hole; dry well 1. “Our Wall” 1. The wall separates and divides us from God. 1. The wall of sin. (We must recognize we have a problem) Romans 3:23—For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God; Isaiah 59:2—But your iniquities have separated between you and your God, and your sins have hid his face from you, that he will not hear. Gen. 3:8—And they heard the voice of the LORD God walking in the garden in the cool of the day: and Adam and his wife hid themselves from the presence of the LORD God amongst the trees of the garden. 9—And the LORD God called unto Adam, and said unto him, Where art thou? Eph 2:1—And you hath he quickened, who were dead in trespasses and sins; 1. Sin separates us from God. 1. Sin separates us from one another (Man) 1. From Happiness 2. From Joy 3. From Peace Jesus was manifested to tear down the walls that we have built up. 1. We built the wall but He tore it down 1. “Our wall” The wall of sin Eph. 2:14—For he is our peace, who hath made both one, and hath broken down the middle wall of partition between us; Song 1:4—Draw me, we will run after thee: the king hath brought me into his chambers: we will be glad and rejoice in thee, we will remember thy love more than wine: the upright love thee. Song 2:4—He brought me to the banqueting house, and his banner over me was love. 1. “Our wall” The wall of unbelief Sins of omission because we don’t believe. Christian agnostic --- A Christian or a believer that doesn’t believe. Mark 9:24—And straightway the father of the child cried out, and said with tears, Lord, I believe; help thou mine unbelief. - A wall between us because of unbelief. Romans 14:23 And he that doubteth is damned if he eat, because he eateth not of faith: for whatsoever is not of faith is sin. Mark 11:24—Therefore I say unto you, What things soever ye desire, when ye pray, believe that ye receive them, and ye shall have them. DISCIPLES Mat. 6:30—Wherefore, if God so clothe the grass of the field, which to day is, and to morrow is cast into the oven, shall he not much more clothe you, O ye of little faith? 8:26--And he saith unto them, Why are ye fearful, O ye of little faith? Then he arose, and rebuked the winds and the sea; and there was a great calm. 16:8—Which when Jesus perceived, he said unto them, O ye of little faith, why reason ye among yourselves, because ye have brought no bread? Luke 12:28—If then God so clothe the grass, which is to day in the field, and to morrow is cast into the oven; how much more will he clothe you, O ye of little faith? Mat.17:17—Then Jesus answered and said, O faithless and perverse generation, how long shall I be with you? how long shall I suffer you? bring him hither to me. Mark 9:19—He answereth him, and saith, O faithless generation, how long shall I be with you? how long shall I suffer you? bring him unto me. Luke 9:41—And Jesus answering said, O faithless and perverse generation, how long shall I be with you, and suffer you? Bring thy son hither. PETER Mat. 14:31—And immediately Jesus stretched forth his hand, and caught him, and said unto him, O thou of little faith, wherefore didst thou doubt? The wall can come down, Let Him take down the wall. DAVID 1Sam. 21:13—And he changed his behaviour before them, and feigned himself mad in their hands, and scrabbled on the doors of the gate, and let his spittle fall down upon his beard Eph. 2:14—For he …hath broken down the …wall… 1. “Our wall” The wall of Rebellion Sins of commission because we are rebellious. The wall of rebellion is found even in a Christian? Absolutely Does a Christian sin after he gets saved? We have a problem, there are areas in our lives we would have to say, yes I am guilty. No wall can keep Him out but our wall. (Walls speak of our beliefs, good and bad) THE PROMISE 2Cor. 5:17—Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new. What does it take to make up the wall of rebellion? - There are a lot of things in our lives that make up the wall of rebellion. 1. Pride is part of the wall. - Pride of race, Pride of grace, Pride of face. If we are going to have Him in close fellowship with us we are going to get rid of the wall. We don’t want to see Him dimly through the Lattice work. We don’t want anything between us and Him. 2. Quick Temper is part of the wall. - QUICK TEMPER keep it nobody else wants it. Selfishness, self out of control. Self out of order, Out of the Will of God. Fly off the handle stick in the wall and vibrate. If we are going to have God’s best we are going to have to get rid of that quick temper Ex. 17:6—Behold, I will stand before thee there upon the rock in Horeb; and thou shalt smite the rock, and there shall come water out of it, that the people may drink. And Moses did so in the sight of the elders of Israel. Num. 20:8—Take the rod, and gather thou the assembly together, thou, and Aaron thy brother, and speak ye unto the rock before their eyes; and it shall give forth his water, and thou shalt bring forth to them water out of the rock: so thou shalt give the congregation and their beasts drink. 10—And Moses and Aaron gathered the congregation together before the rock, and he said unto them, Hear now, ye rebels; must we fetch you water out of this rock? 11—And Moses lifted up his hand, and with his rod he smote the rock twice: and the water came out abundantly, and the congregation drank, and their beasts also. 12—And the LORD spake unto Moses and Aaron, Because ye believed me not, to sanctify me in the eyes of the children of Israel, therefore ye shall not bring this congregation into the land which I have given them. - We need to learn a lot more meekness. 3. Lust is part of the wall of rebellion James 1:14—But every man is tempted, when he is drawn away of his own lust, and enticed. - Drawn away from God - Drawn away from His Will - Drawn away from His call - A serious thing to get away from the Will of God. 4. A (bad) habit is part of the wall of rebellion What is a bad habit? A bad habit is something that you can’t break on your own. - Something that controls you, you don’t control it, but it controls you. ## There is a place that we find in Him where the wall comes down. 2. His Position in relationship to His Redemption. Song 2:9 “He standeth” Standing by our wall is the Mighty Conqueror 1. He stands with redeeming Grace. 2. He stands with redeeming Mercy. 3. He stands at my wall. 4. He stands at your wall. Song 2:9—“He standeth behind our wall, he looketh forth at the windows, shewing himself through the lattice” Here He is not sitting, He is not laying down, Here He is standing 1. He stands as He that has conquered. 2. He stands as the one ready to help us. Rev. 3:20—Behold, I stand at the door, and knock: if any man hear my voice, and open the door, I will come in to him, and will sup with him, and he with me. Mat.28:18—And Jesus came and spake unto them, saying, All power is given unto me in heaven and in earth. 20—Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world. Amen. John 20:14—And when she had thus said, she turned herself back, and saw Jesus standing, and knew not that it was Jesus. 16—Jesus saith unto her, Mary. She turned herself, and saith unto him, Rabboni; which is to say, Master. 21:4—But when the morning was now come, Jesus stood on the shore: but the disciples knew not that it was Jesus. 5—Then Jesus saith unto them, Children, have ye any meat? They answered him, No. {Children: or, little boys} 13—Jesus then cometh, and taketh bread, and giveth them, and fish likewise. Acts 7:56—And said, Behold, I see the heavens opened, and the Son of man standing on the right hand of God. Rev. 10:5—And the angel which I saw stand upon the sea and upon the earth lifted up his hand to heaven, 6—And sware by him that liveth for ever and ever, who created heaven, and the things that therein are, and the earth, and the things that therein are, and the sea, and the things which are therein, that there should be time no longer: 2. The Revelation of His Providence 1. “He looketh forth at the windows” He sees all things, “He looketh forth at the windows” There is nothing that is hid from His eyes, He sees all and He knows all things. 1. He sees us 1. He knows and He cares He knows us better than we know ourselves for He knows all things, and He knows what is good for us. Jer17:9—The heart is deceitful above all things and desperately wicked who can know it? 1Sam. 16:7—But the LORD said unto Samuel, Look not on his countenance, or on the height of his stature; because I have refused him: for the LORD seeth not as man seeth; for man looketh on the outward appearance, but the LORD looketh on the heart. “God is Faithful” 1Cor. 10:13—There hath no temptation taken you but such as is common to man: but God is faithful, who will not suffer you to be tempted above that ye are able; but will with the temptation also make a way to escape, that ye may be able to bear it. He knows whether we are real or sincere. Standing by our wall is the Mighty Conqueror. 1. He Guides us God was leading you before you knew anything about Him. The Lord holds the reigns and guides us with His Eye. (Providence)-(counsel) Ps 32:8—I will instruct thee and teach thee in the way which thou shalt go: I will guide thee with mine eye. {guide...: Heb. counsel thee, mine eye shall be upon thee} He leads us to salvation and to the cross and He leads us continually in our lives. Sometimes He has take us on a detour because of our rebellion, pride, quick temper, lust and habits. 1. He keeps us 1. From harm, danger, sin and our self. 1Cor. 13:12—For now we see through a glass, darkly; but then face to face: now I know in part; but then shall I know even as also I am known. 2Chron. 16:9 For the eyes of the LORD run to and fro throughout the whole earth, to shew himself strong in the behalf of them whose heart is perfect toward him. Herein thou hast done foolishly: therefore from henceforth thou shalt have wars. 3. The Revelation of His Person 1. “shewing himself through the lattice” We need a true picture, a true Vision, a real revelation, we need to see Him. We see Him in redemption and in providence; we need to see him as He really is. 1. Our vision is dim (we don’t see Him totally but He sees us) Php 3:10—That I may know him, and the power of his resurrection, and the fellowship of his sufferings, being made conformable unto his death; We not only have walls, we have lattice work hindering our vision of Him. We don’t see Him clearly because we don’t know Him. Not even to recognize Him. 1. Our vision begins to clear as we begin to know Him better. How much better we can see when we get closer to Him. As he works in our life we get to know Him more. 1. Our vision can be complete. We can have a complete vision of Jesus. Our vision of the Word can be complete. Get closer, closer He is “shewing himself” beyond the walls, beyond the lattice, inside the house. Rev. 3:20—Behold, I stand at the door, and knock: if any man hear my voice, and open the door, I will come in to him, and will sup with him, and he with me. 1John 3:2—Beloved, now are we the sons of God, and it doth not yet appear what we shall be: but we know that, when he shall appear, we shall be like him; for we shall see him as he is. Rev. 3:17—Because thou sayest, I am rich, and increased with goods, and have need of nothing; and knowest not that thou art wretched, and miserable, and poor, and blind, and naked: 18—I counsel thee to buy of me gold tried in the fire, that thou mayest be rich; and white raiment, that thou mayest be clothed, and that the shame of thy nakedness do not appear; and anoint thine eyes with eyesalve, that thou mayest see. We need to See Him for who He is, not just what He can do. Come in with your Glory. Ps 24:7—Lift up your heads, O ye gates; and be ye lift up, ye everlasting doors; and the King of glory shall come in. 8—Who is this King of glory? The LORD strong and mighty, the LORD mighty in battle. 9—Lift up your heads, O ye gates; even lift them up, ye everlasting doors; and the King of glory shall come in. 10—Who is this King of glory? The LORD of hosts, he is the King of glory. Selah. # SOS 2:10-13 A Message from the Bridegroom to the Bride Preached by James R. Reynolds, Sr. on February 21, 1979. > Song of Solomon 2:10-13 — My beloved spake, and said unto me, Rise up, my love, my fair one, and come away. 11 For, lo, the winter is past, the rain is over and gone; 12 The flowers appear on the earth; the time of the singing of birds is come, and the voice of the turtle is heard in our land; 13 The fig tree putteth forth her green figs, and the vines with the tender grape give a good smell. Arise, my love, my fair one, and come away. ## INTRODUCTION There is a great message from God not only here but in the entire book. It is for those who are willing to pay the price, to attain to all that God has provided for them. Some are not interested of getting any more than what they have as far as simple salvation. Born again is not something we decide to do. It is not by the church, It is not acquired by works. Born again is an experience by the Spirit. 1Cor. 3:15—If any man's work shall be burned, he shall suffer loss: but he himself shall be saved; yet so as by fire. Jude 1:23—And others save with fear, pulling them out of the fire; hating even the garment spotted by the flesh. We need to be stirred, aroused, awakened and something within you crying out, You’re not satisfied with yourself. The Holy Spirit is wooing the Bride to Christ today. ## I. The Message of Encouragement Song 2:10 My beloved spake, and said unto me, Rise up, my love, my fair one, and come away. 1. She hears His Voice – “My beloved spake” 1. He is speaking - Divine Truth, His Word is alive 1. “Rise up, my love” 1. He loves her 2. She loves Him Job 1:9 Then Satan answered the LORD, and said, Doth Job fear God for nought? 1John 4:19 We love him, because he first loved us. John 14:15—If ye love me, keep my commandments. 21—He that hath my commandments, and keepeth them, he it is that loveth me: and he that loveth me shall be loved of my Father, and I will love him, and will manifest myself to him.23Jesus answered and said unto him, If a man love me, he will keep my words: and my Father will love him, and we will come unto him, and make our abode with him John 3:16—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. There is the Family and then there is the Church. The Church is not the building but the people of God that really love God. There is a Love affair going on; it is not drudgery, it is not misery. The Bride will love Him more. There is a mutual agreement between us and the Lord. It should not be a hard job to sit in His Presence. We are understanding more of Him and His Word and His Revelation, His desire and His Purpose and His Plan; The great Eternal plan of God to make a people like His Son. ## He included You. When we understand His love it should be an encouragement to us. He called Her His Love. “My Love” - The Word of God is a precious letter that we should read over and over in Love with Him because He is in love with you. Jn. 17:23 I in them, and thou in me, that they may be made perfect in one; and that the world may know that thou hast sent me, and hast loved them, as thou hast loved me. 26 And I have declared unto them thy name, and will declare it: that the love wherewith thou hast loved me may be in them, and I in them. - The Word of God is personal - Personal Vision comes as the Word of God is illuminated - The Word of God is illuminated after prolonged Prayer How do we get a personal vision? • The WORD of God will light and direct your path. PRAYER God often gives vision in response to PRAYER. Personal PROPHECY, properly given and carefully evaluated. DIRECT REVELATION by the Holy Spirit. • In the MULTITUDE of trustworthy COUNSELORS. - The Word of God is Eternal, It is alive, it is still speaking. Hebrews 11:4—By faith Abel offered unto God a more excellent sacrifice than Cain, by which he obtained witness that he was righteous, God testifying of his gifts: and by it he being dead yet speaketh. Though Abel was dead, Yet holy men of God wrote of him. - The Word of God is a living Letter with Hope and encouragement in it for you . 1. “My fair one” 1. His Word is made alive in us by the Spirit as we follow Him. 2. Attaining to what God has provided. Anyone and everyone has the same privilege to appropriate all that He has Provided and become the “Fair one”. ## (The Multitudes) The Family – The Church - (The inner circle) – The Bride 70 followers - 12 Disciples - (Peter, James John) - John the Beloved 13:25—He then lying on Jesus' breast saith unto him, Lord, who is it? 21:20—Then Peter, turning about, seeth the disciple whom Jesus loved following; which also leaned on his breast at supper, and said, Lord, which is he that betrayeth thee? Song 1:8 If thou know not, O thou fairest Song 5:9 What is thy beloved more than another beloved, O thou fairest Song 6:1 …O thou fairest among women? 1. “Come away” The one who is fair needed the charge “come away” she has become relaxed. Mat. 26:40 And he cometh unto the disciples, and findeth them asleep, and saith unto Peter, What, could ye not watch with me one hour? 42 He went away again the second time, and prayed, saying, O my Father, if this cup may not pass away from me, except I drink it, thy will be done. 43 And he came and found them asleep again: for their eyes were heavy. 44 And he left them, and went away again, and prayed the third time, saying the same words. 45 Then cometh he to his disciples, and saith unto them, Sleep on now, and take your rest: behold, the hour is at hand, and the Son of man is betrayed into the hands of sinners. 46 Rise, let us be going: behold, he is at hand that doth betray me. Rev. 3:15 I know thy works, that thou art neither cold nor hot: I would thou wert cold or hot. 16 So then because thou art lukewarm, and neither cold nor hot, I will spue thee out of my mouth. 17 Because thou sayest, I am rich, and increased with goods, and have need of nothing; and knowest not that thou art wretched, and miserable, and poor, and blind, and naked: Acts 12:5 Peter therefore was kept in prison: but prayer was made without ceasing of the church unto God for him. 6 And when Herod would have brought him forth, the same night Peter was sleeping between two soldiers, bound with two chains: and the keepers before the door kept the prison. 7 And, behold, the angel of the Lord came upon him, and a light shined in the prison: and he smote Peter on the side, and raised him up, saying, Arise up quickly. And his chains fell off from his hands. - God wants to awaken the Church. - God wants to awaken you. - God wants to use you. “Rise up, my love, my fair one, and come away” ## Let us be on the move, let’s get going, He not only encourages us but He challenges us. God is going to have a Bride that is not half asleep but fully awake and that is totally for Him. ## II. Message of Grace 11 For, lo, the winter is past, the rain is over and gone; 12 The flowers appear on the earth; the time of the singing of birds is come, and the voice of the turtle is heard in our land; 1. For, lo, the winter is past 1. He is using symbolic language, and the winter is symbolic of the law. 1. Winter is Hard, cold, barren and no life. 2. Law is binding, hard, unbending, simply stating the facts, producing no life. 3. God does not bend His Law for anyone. Eze 18:4 Behold, all souls are mine; as the soul of the father, so also the soul of the son is mine: the soul that sinneth, it shall die. 20 The soul that sinneth, it shall die. The son shall not bear the iniquity of the father, neither shall the father bear the iniquity of the son: the righteousness of the righteous shall be upon him, and the wickedness of the wicked shall be upon him. Rom. 10:4 For Christ is the end of the law for righteousness to everyone that believeth. 2. With the winter past, spring has come. 1. Spring is life coming forth. 2. Grace is Spiritual life coming forth 3. God gives Grace to the Humble The winter has had its consummation in Jesus Christ. 2. The rain is over and gone; 1. The Abundance of Rain 11 For, lo, the winter is past, the rain is over (and This and is in italics) gone; - For, lo, the winter is past, the rain is overgone; Zec. 10:1 Ask ye of the LORD rain in the time of the latter rain; so the LORD shall make bright clouds, and give them showers of rain, to every one grass in the field. Joel 2:23 Be glad then, ye children of Zion, and rejoice in the LORD your God: for he hath given you the former rain moderately, and he will cause to come down for you the rain, the former rain, and the latter rain in the first month. James 5:7 Be patient therefore, brethren, unto the coming of the Lord. Behold, the husbandman waiteth for the precious fruit of the earth, and hath long patience for it, until he receive the early and latter rain. 3. Song 2:12 “The flowers appear on the earth” 1. There is the sign and evidence of spiritual life when Jesus dwells in you. 2. There is a sign and process of growth where fruit is coming forth to Perfection. Luke 8:14 And that which fell among thorns are they, which, when they have heard, go forth, and are choked with cares and riches and pleasures of this life, and bring no fruit to perfection. 15 But that on the good ground are they, which in an honest and good heart, having heard the word, keep it, and bring forth fruit with patience. Php. 1:6 Being confident of this very thing, that he which hath begun a good work in you will perform it until the day of Jesus Christ: 3. There is the sign of Joy “The time of the singing of birds is come, and the voice of the turtle is heard in our land” 1Peter 1:8 Whom having not seen, ye love; in whom, though now ye see him not, yet believing, ye rejoice with joy unspeakable and full of glory: Psalm 40:3 And he hath put a new song in my mouth, even praise unto our God: many shall see it, and fear, and shall trust in the LORD. 1. The singing of birds is symbolic of music in our heart to the Lord 2. Glorifying God, Praising the Lord, Worshipping Him . Psalm 137:3 For there they that carried us away captive required of us a song; and they that wasted us required of us mirth, saying, Sing us one of the songs of Zion. 4 How shall we sing the LORD'S song in a strange land? 4. “The voice of the turtle is heard in our land” (The Turtle Dove) 1. There is Signs of Peace 1. Symbol of the Spirit and emblem of Peace. Php. 4:7 And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus. 2Tim. 1:7 For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind. 2. An emblem of Love 1. God’s grace is revealed to us by His Love in action. John3:16 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. 1John3:16 Hereby perceive we the love of God, because he laid down his life for us: and we ought to lay down our lives for the brethren. 3. An Emblem of Repentance. 1. The spirit of Elijah was to preach repentance. 2. The spirit John the Baptist was to preach repentance. 3. The Holy Ghost will sound the same message through us today. ## III. The Message of Warning 1. The sound will not always be in the land. 2. Today the Message is to sound in us and through us. 3. Tonight The Turtle Dove is still crying, warning, and sounding the alarm. Mat. 24:32 Now learn a parable of the fig tree; When his branch is yet tender, and putteth forth leaves, ye know that summer is nigh: Luke 21:29 And he spake to them a parable; Behold the fig tree, and all the trees; 30 When they now shoot forth, ye see and know of your own selves that summer is now nigh at hand. 31 So likewise ye, when ye see these things come to pass, know ye that the kingdom of God is nigh at hand. 32 Verily I say unto you, This generation shall not pass away, till all be fulfilled. 33 Heaven and earth shall pass away: but my words shall not pass away. The Fig tree represents the nation of Israel and all the other trees represent the other nations. 1. Seeing the Nation of Israel gaining their independence is a sign that the Holy Ghost is going to pour out the latter rain in fullness. 1. Arise, my love, my fair one, and come away. Song 2:13 The fig tree putteth forth her green figs, and the vines with the tender grape give a good smell. Arise, my love, my fair one, and come away. The repeat of the message is a warning as well as encouragement. Luke 21:28 And when these things begin to come to pass, then look up, and lift up your heads; for your redemption draweth nigh. Gen. 24:58 And they called Rebekah, and said unto her, Wilt thou go with this man? And she said, I will go. Gen. 5:24 And Enoch walked with God: and he was not; for God took him. Heb 11:5 By faith Enoch was translated that he should not see death; and was not found, because God had translated him: for before his translation he had this testimony, that he pleased God. 25x’s Jesus said verily , verily in The Gospel of John alone. # SOS 2:14 Panorama of the Bride Preached by James R. Reynolds, Sr. on March 14, 1979. > Song of Solomon 2:14 — O my dove, that art in the clefts of the rock, in the secret places of the stairs, let me see thy countenance, let me hear thy voice; for sweet is thy voice, and thy countenance is comely. - I. The Bride’s Nature - II. The Bride’s Abode - III. The Bride’s Appearance - IV. The Bride’s Speech ## I. The Bride’s Nature > “Oh My Dove” ### A. Gentle The Church too often shows a tiger spirit, But the Bride has a dove spirit. ### B. Clean The dove is a very clean bird and even cannot handle gall. The dove will die if she eats poison. ### C. Faithful A dove has only one mate and will not live long after its mate dies. ## II. The Bride’s Abode > …that art in the clefts of the rock, in the secret places of the stairs… ### A. The Clefts of the Rock 1. The Rock is Christ 1. A Sure Abode 2. A Safe Abode - John 10:29 My Father, which gave them me, is greater than all; and no man is able to pluck them out of my Father's hand. This promise is to the righteous. - Jeremiah 48:28 O ye that dwell in Moab, leave the cities, and dwell in the rock, and be like the dove that maketh her nest in the sides of the hole's mouth. - Jeremiah 48:28 “YE”—Israel, the people of God “MOAB”—A type of the flesh 3. A Satisfying Place What followed Israel in the Wilderness? Answer: A Rock Who was Christ. 1Cor. 10:4 …they drank of that spiritual Rock that followed them: and that Rock was Christ - A SATISFYING PLACE What followed Israel in the Wilderness? Answer: A Rock Who was Christ. What came out of the Rock? Answer: Water. - Numbers 20:10,11 10 …Hear now, ye rebels; must we fetch you water out of this rock? 11 And Moses lifted up his hand, and with his rod he smote the rock twice: and the water came out abundantly, and the congregation drank, and their beasts also. - A SATISFYING PLACE Matthew 11:28—Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. - A SATISFYING PLACE John 7:37—…If any man thirst, let him come unto me, and drink. John 7:38—…out of his belly shall flow rivers of living water. - A SATISFYING PLACE John 16:24—…ask, and ye shall receive, that your joy may be full. - Some have no joy - Some have some joy - Some have fulness of joy!!! ## II. The Bride’s Abode “Thou art In…” A. The Clefts of the Rock …that art in the clefts of the rock… 1. The Rock is Christ 2. The Rock has Clefts - Isaiah 53:5 But he was wounded for our transgressions, he was bruised for our iniquities: the chastisement of our peace was upon him; and with his stripes we are healed. - The Clefts in the Rock 39 Stripes applied to Christ’s back 39 Major Diseases There is a cleft for every need of the Body & Soul in the Rock. - I John 1:9 If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. - He Bought My Soul at Calvary © 1950 Stuart Hamblen Each drop of blood bought me a million years. A soul is born each time he shed a tear. He broke the chains that once held you and me. He bought my soul through death at Calvary. - How long is Eternity? - II. The Bride’s Abode “Thou art In…” A. The Clefts of the Rock B. Secret Places of the Stairs O my dove, that art in the clefts of the rock, in the secret places of the stairs… - THE STAIRS The stairs are a type of the Word. Isa 28:10—For precept must be upon precept, precept upon precept; line upon line, line upon line; here a little, and there a little: - THE SECRET PLACES We need not only the Bible but a REVELATION of that Word. Matthew 16:17—…Blessed art thou, Simon Barjona: for flesh and blood hath not revealed it unto thee, but my Father which is in heaven. - I Corinthians 2:9,10 9 But as it is written, Eye hath not seen, nor ear heard, neither have entered into the heart of man, the things which God hath prepared for them that love him. 10 But God hath revealed them unto us by his Spirit: for the Spirit searcheth all things, yea, the deep things of God. > Matthew 24:28 — For wheresoever the carcase is, there will the eagles be gathered together. - Fresh meat - Fresh revelation, truth **7 Stairs to Heaven** [![stairs of salvation](https://archive.org/serve/dc-images/stairs-of-salvation.png)](https://archive.org/serve/dc-images/stairs-of-salvation.png) ## III. The Bride’s Appearance > “Let Me See thy Countenance” A. He wants to see the completeness of her beauty. Countenance Not just facial features, but He wants to see the whole of her. Her beauty he admires is not carnal but spiritual. - I Want to See You How are you doing? Fruit - Results – Development – what is the Lord doing for you? mar’eh \[HEBREW\] total appearance; that which she is (in the spirit) - III. The Bride’s Appearance “Let Me See thy Countenance” A. He wants to see the completeness of her beauty. B. Her beauty is from the Bridegroom. - How did she get so beautiful? For him to see her, she has to see Him. As she sees Him as He is, she is changed. - Hebrews 12:2 Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith; who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God. - Why does He want to see her? - We are only going to become like Him as we see Him as He is. - He is trying to get her attention to draw her to Himself. There must be time in your life set aside only for Him and you. - 2 Corinthians 3:18 But we all, with open face beholding as in a glass the glory of the Lord, are changed into the same image from glory to glory, even as by the Spirit of the Lord. - The Panorama of the Bride Text: Song of Solomon 2:14 I. The Bride’s Nature II. The Bride’s Abode III. The Bride’s Appearance IV. The Bride’s Speech - IV. The Bride’s Speech “Let Me Hear thy Voice” A. Her speech must be Vocal. There will be no silent disciples in the Bride. - Luke 9:26 For whosoever shall be ashamed of me and of my words, of him shall the Son of man be ashamed, when he shall come in his own glory, and in his Father's, and of the holy angels. - We should always be witnessing and testifying of the grace of God. - Christ Ministered to People HEALED: nobleman's son, Demoniac RAISED THE DEAD: Jairus' daughter & Lazarus FED THE HUNGRY: 5,000-PLUS & 7,000 PREACHED: At the Synagogue & Hillsides VISITED: Zaccheus’ House - Christ Ministered to People Acts 10:38 How God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Ghost and with power: who went about doing good, and healing all that were oppressed of the devil; for God was with him. - How does he want to hear us? - Testifying - Witnessing - Praying - Praising - Let’s Talk about Jesus Uknown Author Let’s talk about Jesus. The King of Kings is He The Lord of Lord Supreme Throughout eternity… - IV. The Bride’s Speech “Let Me Hear thy Voice” A. Her speech is vocal. B. Her speech is Sweet. 1.Not Filled with Corrupt Things. - Ephesians 4:29 Let no corrupt communication proceed out of your mouth, but that which is good to the use of edifying, that it may minister grace unto the hearers. - Colossians 3:8 But now ye also put off all these; anger, wrath, malice, blasphemy, filthy communication out of your mouth. - Told by Oral Roberts… Man spoke to a cursing and swearing deacon: “I can’t imagine Jesus going around cursing and swearing.” - Psalm 19:14 Let the words of my mouth, and the meditation of my heart, be acceptable in thy sight, O LORD, my strength, and my redeemer. - IV. The Bride’s Speech “Let Me Hear thy Voice” A. Her speech is vocal. B. Her speech is Sweet. 1.Not Filled with Corrupt Things. 2. Filled with the Word. - Matthew 12:34 O generation of vipers, how can ye, being evil, speak good things? for out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaketh. - Psalm 119:11 Thy word have I hid in mine heart, that I might not sin against thee. - Angry man… Raised his fist toward heaven using vulgarity. That is not what He wants to hear! - Stay out of trouble by… Filling your heart and mouth with the Word of God. - IV. The Bride’s Appearance “Let Me Hear thy Voice” A. Her speech is vocal. B. Her speech is Sweet. 1.Not Filled with Corrupt Things. 2. Filled with the Word. 3. Filled with Praise - Keep Emphasis on Jesus - She is filled with praise and not gossip. - Even if it is true, it is still gossip! - Speak and praise the name of Jesus. - An article said “You people put so much emphasis on the Holy Ghost, it distracts from Jesus.” - Pure Worship - He wants to hear praise from out of a willing heart. - Our praise should be the result of our love for Him. - He wants us to praise because He wants us to know Him. - The Panorama of the Bride Text: Song of Solomon 2:14 I. The Bride’s Nature II. The Bride’s Abode III. The Bride’s Appearance IV. The Bride’s Speech - Let’s Talk About Jesus Author Unknown chorus Let's talk about Jesus the King of Kings is He The Lord of Lords Supreme Throughout eternity The great I AM the way The Truth, the Life, the Door Let's talk about Jesus more and more - Let’s Talk About Jesus Author Unknown verse 1 Let's talk about Jesus, let all the world proclaim The Power and Majesty, of such a Wondrous Name The Babe of Bethlehem, the Bright and Morning Star Let's sing His Praises near and far - Let’s Talk About Jesus Author Unknown chorus Let's talk about Jesus the King of Kings is He The Lord of Lords Supreme Throughout eternity The great I AM the way The Truth, the Life, the Door Let's talk about Jesus more and more - Let’s Talk About Jesus Author Unknown verse 2 Let's talk about Jesus, the Bread of Life is He the Sav-iour of the world, that Man of Galilee The Prophet, Priest and King, the Mighty God is He The well of Liv-ing Wa-ter free - Let’s Talk About Jesus Author Unknown chorus Let's talk about Jesus the King of Kings is He The Lord of Lords Supreme Throughout eternity The great I AM the way The Truth, the Life, the Door Let's talk about Jesus more and more - Let’s Talk About Jesus Author Unknown verse 3 Let's talk about Jesus, The Prince of Peace is He The great Physician too, Down through all history The Lily pure and white, The Rose of Sharon fair The shepherd of such tender care - Let’s Talk About Jesus Author Unknown chorus Let's talk about Jesus the King of Kings is He The Lord of Lords Supreme Throughout eternity The great I AM the way The Truth, the Life, the Door Let's talk about Jesus more and more # SOS 2:15 Keeping the Vineyard Preached by James R. Reynolds on March 21, 1979. > Song of Solomon 2:15 — The Subtlety of Her Enemies “Take us the foxes…” > Matthew 24:32 — Now learn a parable of the fig tree; When his branch is yet tender, and putteth forth leaves, ye know that summer is nigh: [![no-foxes.png](https://bible.exchange/uploads/images/gallery/2021-10/scaled-1680-/no-foxes.png)](https://bible.exchange/uploads/images/gallery/2021-10/no-foxes.png) - Introduction - I. Subtlety of Her Enemy - II. Damage by Her Enemy - III. Most Critical Time to Watch ## INTRODUCTION The Bridegroom is giving a warning and revelation concerning the danger that faces the bride in her preparation, growth and progress in the realm of the Spirit. There is a certain amount of responsibility that goes along with privilege. There more God reveals of himself there great responsibility there is. The Vineyard. Song 1:6 Look not upon me, because I am black, because the sun hath looked upon me: my mother's children were angry with me; they made me the keeper of the vineyards; but mine own vineyard have I not kept. Bridegroom’s admonition “You keep your own vineyard.” You - The Bride has enemies. ## I. Subtlety of her Enemy > “Take us…” (8:08) ### A. The Action to the Enemy The Bride is Responsible to Catch the foxes. The Bridegroom is admonition her to take charge of her vineyard (responsibility). It is going to be difficult because of the subtlety of the enemy, but the bridegroom is going to help. He is going to give her the strength, but she is the one that must to do it Take –HEBREW sieze upon, take hold of, get rid of It is quite a job to catch a fox. IF the devil can just get you on easy street, he has you already. 2Ti 2:3 Thou therefore endure hardness, as a good soldier of Jesus Christ. Eph 6:12 For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places. Php 3:14 I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus. (all one slide) 1Jo 5:3 For this is the love of God, that we KEEP his commandments: and his commandments are not grievous. (But we do have an enemy who plays with our flesh.) Eph 6:12 For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places. Jg 15:4 And Samson went and caught three hundred foxes, and took firebrands, and turned tail to tail, and put a firebrand in the midst between two tails. - YOU easily see your neighbor’s foxes, but not your own. - You might surprise you many you catch. - You want a great victor? Catch the foxes in your vineyard. ### B. The Nature of the Enemy (15:02) > Jeremiah 17:9 — The heart is **deceitful** above all things, and desperately wicked: who can know it? - The fox is deceptive, cunning, treacherous, sly, he plays tricks. - The longer they stay, the harder it is to get rid of them. - Get them ALL. > Matthew 13:18 — Hear ye therefore the parable of the sower. 19 When any one heareth the word of the kingdom, and understandeth it not, then cometh the wicked one, and catcheth away that which was sown in his heart. This is he which received seed by the way side. 20 But he that received the seed into stony places, the same is he that heareth the word, and anon with joy receiveth it; 21 Yet hath he not root in himself, but dureth for a while: for when tribulation or persecution ariseth because of the word, by and by he is offended. 22 He also that received seed among the thorns is he that heareth the word; and the care of this world, and the deceitfulness of riches, choke the word, and he becometh unfruitful. **What happened?** - The Vineyard is Flourishing, has tender grapes, promise of a harvest. - There had to have begun to produce something or there was nothing to choke. Mark 4:14-19 (22:47) Mr 4:14 The sower soweth the word. 15 And these are they by the way side, where the word is sown; but when they have heard, Satan cometh immediately, and taketh away the word that was sown in their hearts. 16 And these are they likewise which are sown on stony ground; who, when they have heard the word, immediately receive it with gladness; 17 And have no root in themselves, and so endure but for a time: afterward, when affliction or persecution ariseth for the word's sake, immediately they are offended. 18 And these are they which are sown among thorns; such as hear the word, 19 And the cares of this world, and the deceitfulness of riches, and the lusts of other things entering in, choke the word, and it becometh unfruitful. Luke 8:11-14 Lu 8:11 Now the parable is this: The seed is the word of God. 12 Those by the way side are they that hear; then cometh the devil, and taketh away the word out of their hearts, lest they should believe and be saved. 13 They on the rock are they, which, when they hear, receive the word with joy; and these have no root, which for a while believe, and in time of temptation fall away. 14 And that which fell among thorns are they, which, when they have heard, go forth, and are choked with cares and riches and pleasures of this life, and bring no fruit to perfection. …Take the foxes… What are the foxes? (25:40) #### A. Bad habits There are BAD Habits and Good habits. . “Preacher wouldnever allow myself to get into a rut. He even would stop praying for months so that he would not get into a “rut.” There are BAD Habits and Good habits. WE should perform the good habits and take a hold of, strangle, Crush bad habits. #### B. Slang Words \[28:00\] Word s have more meaning (28:00) When I was in the world I talked like the world, but when I became a Christian no on had to tell me how to talk. The little Bride avoids Slangs – (30:23--) Slang or euphemisms: "the substitution of an agreeable or inoffensive expression for one that may offend or suggest something unpleasant." Basically, a euphemism is using a word that doesn't sound as bad as the one that most consider offensive, but the meaning of the word is the same. So there is no change in meaning when we use a euphemism. - Gee = Jesus - Gosh = God - Golly = Holy Ghost - Darn, dang= Damn - Heck = Hell Ps 19:14 Let the words of my mouth, and the meditation of my heart, be acceptable in thy sight, O LORD, my strength, and my redeemer. 35:00 Green Maine, Preached clean up your thinking and speech…God moved. We are moving in the wrong direction. We are getting further and further from where we need to be. (35:50-37:10) <<ad picture)>> - Clean up your thinking and speech so God can move. > Psalm 19:14 — Let the words of my mouth, and the meditation of my heart, be acceptable in thy sight, O LORD, my strength, and my redeemer. **Is Your Tongue Godly?**
SlangClean
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#### C. Weaknesses \[37:48\] Weaknesses in our nature and character. What is meant by weaknesses? “I want to serve God…” BUTa fox gets in there #### D. Wasting Time > Ephesians 5:16 — Redeeming the time, because the days are evil. #### E. Neglect of Prayer \[42:05\] #### F. Lack of Conviction **What do I believe?** > Ephesians 4:14 — That we henceforth be no more children, tossed to and fro, and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the sleight of men, and cunning craftiness, whereby they lie in wait to deceive; Lack of firmness and conviction has lead the Church into compromise. Jesus never ran or backed down from anyone. Christ was firm in his convictions. We must not compromise! #### G. Foolish Talking #### H. Neglect of God’s Word #### I. Error in Doctrine ### C. The size of our enemy (48:07) Take the Foxes, especially so, the LITTLE foxes. LITTLE foxes are too often overlooked. Those little foxes can be more harmful than the giant! The adjective little has a most significant meaning. It is a WARNING and a REVELATION of why there is fruitlessness in our lives. - Small because they are young. - Small because they are least important “It’s just a little things.” - Small because they are least noticed. Foxes are born often under the vines. If the vineyard is neglected the foxes may hide. ## II. Damage by Her Enemy \[54:10\] Strangled. Spoil means to strangle. Strangles so that becomes unfruitful. ### A. The Believer is a branch, a vine. A believer is abranch, a part of the vine. > John….I a the vine ye are the branches. ### B. The sap is the life of Christ. ``` Foxes prevent the pure river of the Life of Christ to flow. The life of Christ flows in the branches. Branches can only bear fruit as the life of the vine flows through the branches. If it severed from the vine, ti will die. ``` ### C. The grapes are the fruit. \[1:00:00\] The results of Christ living and dwelling in our lives. What is the difference between fruit and gifts? - The Lord wants to > John 15:2 — Every branch in me that beareth not fruit he taketh away: and every branch that beareth fruit, he purgeth it, that it may bring forth more fruit. > John 16:8 — Herein is my Father glorified, that ye bear much fruit; so shall ye be my disciples. Some folks receive the gifts, and have very little fruit. **WATCH OUT:** The little foxes will strangle your experience and prevent fruit. ## III. Most Critical Time to Watch \[1:02:45\] When is the most critical time? The most critical time, “For our vines have tender grapes…” - Little foxes hide in winter under the vines. - In the spring they come out. - Sunshine – Rain – Warmth ### A. When God begins to move by His Spirit. - Collectively and personally. - Be on guard, watch out. - Saints stop a move God and not sinners. ### B. When the Word of God is being revealed. \[1:11:35\] - Attacks the man of God. The devil does not what the Word revealed to you. He seek to destroy confidence in the preacher. - It is going to cost you something to hear and receive truth. - Have half the influence that cults had on people, People in cults follow “That’s your opinion.” ### C. When Revival is in the Midst \[1:16:20\] - spring,summer time life is flowing, the grapes are beginning to come - Be on guard, watch out, catch those little foxes. - A good vinedresser keeps his vineyard fenced in. Not only get the foxes out, but KEEP them out. - We need to fence in what we: Believe – have – see - want in God. WE can enjoy what God is doing if we watch out. - Get rid of that stubbornness. “I am wrong” NOT A LITTLE FOX:Get rid of that stubbornness. - Little foxes nibble at the vine, but the big foxes breed. - When there is break the life flow is broken up. - Catch the foxes when they are little or they will spoil the vine when the tender grapes are just beginning to come. - Hang on to what you have got and drive some stakes down. - The foxes have tried it here. - Do want the life (1:20:0) flowing in all the branches? When there is break, separation the life flow is broken up. - (1:21:40) Don’t be so mindful of your neighbors foxes. - Catch them when they are little or they will spoil the vine when the tender grapes are just beginning to come. - (1:22:00) What we need tonight is to be steadfast in our doctrine. IN what we believe and have in God. Even if they call you a cult. Hang on to what we have got and drive some stakes down. - They tried it here. Not gonna teach Sunday school. ## Conclusion - Don’t let foxes spoil your vine. - Be the best at you are called to do. > Mark 16:15– And he said unto them, Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature. ### Questions #### 1. How can you know if someone is a false prophet? - If you be led only by what you feel, you can still be led astray. - A false prophet is not known by feelings, but by what is taught. - You must know the truth. #### 2. What does a vine dresser do? - Take care of the area where the problem is. Care for the vineyard, bandage, prop, cut off… - As the vine heals fruit will begin to grow again.# SOS 2:16 The Bride's Developing Insight Preached by James R. Reynolds, Sr. on March 28, 1979. > Song of Solomon 2:16 — My beloved is mine, and I am his: he feedeth among the lilies. ## Introduction The Bride is beginning to develop an insight that she did not have before. It is strange, but most new converts think they know it all. They have been in such darkenss and then come into the great light and feel like they know it all. We have a very small understanding of the whole when we begin. As we go on, our vision and understanding begins to enlarge. Where it once was hazy, now is clear. She has a better understanding and clearer vision now then when she first began. ## I. Revelation of Privilege \[2:40\] > My beloved is mine, … When we 'get into this thing' we have a very slanted view of the whole. Maybe even after many years, some have a slanted view of the whole. She only saw part of the whole. God is bringing a people into something to help them understand their privilege — responsibility does accompany this privilege. ### A. Salvation She saw hereself as she was. "I am black". Not a very pretty picture, but necessary. We start with new birth. He washes our sin away. She advances to the banqueting house. ### B. Sancitification Sanctification is a process Where God molds and shapes our lives. - **positional sanctification** - **progressive sanctification** - **ultimate sanctification** The Grace of God sustans us. ### C. Perfection - **first**: He made her comely like the curtains. - **second**: Then brought her to the banqueting house — communion, fellowship. - **third**: Now, My beloved is mine. **HE IS MINE**. If He is possessing us completing then **He is mine**! The Psalmist got some of this Revelation: > Psalm 23:1 — The Lord is my shepherd … Neither life or death, or pincipalities can separate us from God's love. By grace, He becomes ours. Let us get our eyes on Him and not on what He has given us. ## II. Revelation of Priority \[16:28\] > … and I am his: … Grace bestowed upon us, creates a debt. I belong to Him. He has a priority over me. ### A. She is Not Her Own If she is going to have HIM as hers, then she must be HIS! She is not her own because He bought her. She was in trouble and He paid the price. \[21:02\] > 1 Corinthians 6:19,20 — What? know ye not that your body is the temple of the Holy Ghost which is in you, which ye have of God, and ye are not your own? 20 For ye are bought with a price: therefore glorify God in your body, and in your spirit, which are God's.\[21:15\] When we realize we are not our own, we cannot do our own thing. For if we do, then we are not His — He is no longer Lord. \[23:30\] ### B. She is not the World's \[24:50\] She does not belong to this world. ### C. She is not a Servant of Sin \[27:30\] She is not half His, but **SHE IS HIS**. I like what Stevie said in his testimony in Brockton, "Been so long since I sinned, I can't remember." \[34:54\] There is a place in God where we can live above sin. When you fail or sin, you do not have to remain in that place of failure. You can repent and go on. She belongs to Him **because of love** and belongs to Him **to love**. \[42:16\] > 1 John 3:16 — Hereby perceive we the love of God, because he laid down his life for us: and we ought to lay down our lives for the brethren. > A Love Letter: "My Dearest, my darling, my sweetheart, my All-in-All, I love you more than words can tell. I'll swim the broadest ocean. I'll climb the highest hill. I'll cross the widest desert to be in your arms. P.S. See you Friday night if it don't rain." \[43:40\] ### D. She is His Care, Concern \[45:08\] Under His protection. Provide for, Nourish, Lead, Guide, Instruct, Counsel. ## III. Revelation of Provision \[50:41\] > … he feedeth among the lilies. ### A. The Place He Feeds He is not casting his pearls before swine, for He is among the lilies. > Revelation 2:17 — He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches; To him that overcometh will I give to eat of the hidden manna, and will give him a white stone, and in the stone a new name written, which no man knoweth saving he that receiveth it. ### B. What He Feeds On 1. The Word 2. The Pure Word 3. The Revealed Word 4. The Anointed Word# SOS 2:17 The Bride's Enlarged Vision Preached by Rev. James R. Reynolds, Sr. > Song of Solomon 2:17 — Until the day break, and the shadows flee away, turn, my beloved, and be thou like a roe or a young hart upon the mountains of Bether. Taughted April 4, 1979. ## Outline The Bride’s Enlarged Vision, Text: Song of Solomon 2:17 - Introduction - I. Bride’s Ultimate Hope - II. Bride’s Prevailing Prayer - III. Bride’s Present Condition ## Introduction Last study we looked at 2:16 and the deepening insight of the Bride. Truth is not going to come to one who is not walking with the Lord. You must walk in what light you have received if you are to receive more. > John 7:17 — If any man will **do** his will, he shall **know** of the doctrine, whether it be of God, or whether I speak of myself. The maiden's knowledge and insight into the things of God are developing as she walks with God. You are not going to understand the deeper things of God unless you walk consistently with Him. > Matthew 6:23 — But if thine eye be evil, thy whole body shall be full of darkness. If therefore the light that is in thee be darkness, how great is that darkness! It is necessary that we grow and advance not only in Revelation but in Experience. We have ceased to grow and develop when we cease to apply the truth and walk in it. Some folks have strange ideas regarding "revelation" but **ALL** Revelation comes from the Word of God. God’s ultimate Eternal Purpose is that He might have a Bride that is one with Him. If we want to win the goal, we must run in the race. > Ephesians 3:11 — According to the eternal purpose which he purposed in Christ Jesus our Lord: > John 17:22 &mash; And the glory which thou gavest me I have given them; that they may be one, even as we are one: We are seeing a deeping of her insight. She initially is black, but He brings her in and she begins to see what God is trying to do for her. > SOS 1:5 — I am black, but comely, O ye daughters of Jerusalem, as the tents of Kedar, as the curtains of Solomon. > SOS 2:4,5 — He brought me to the banqueting house, and his banner over me was love. 5 Stay me with flagons, comfort me with apples: for I am sick of love. Her hunger has not decreased but increased. Although she has not yet run like she should, she hasn't lost her desire to run. Her vision is enlarging because she is going on. As you go on in God He is going to reveal more to you. The vision of the advancing train: “Watch the Light.”
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She has her struggles, but she is in God's process determined to reach the Goal. > Hebrews 6:1—Therefore leaving the principles of the doctrine of Christ, let us go on unto perfection; not laying again the foundation of repentance from dead works, and of faith toward God, Even though her vision has enlarged there is a crying out for help. > Titus 2:13 — Looking for that blessed hope, and the glorious appearing of the great God and our Saviour Jesus Christ; ## I. Bride’s Ultimate Hope ### A. “The Eternal Day break” > “Until the day break, and shadows flee away…” > Job 28:7—There is a path which no fowl knoweth, and which the vulture's eye hath not seen: > John 21:3—Simon Peter saith unto them, I go a fishing Peter lost his vision. We need a proper understanding of what God is doing. > SOS 2:17—Until the day break, and the shadows flee away, turn, my beloved, and be thou like a roe or a young hart upon the mountains of Bether. “until” talking about a time that is coming but is far beyond where she is right now. ### B. The Night 1. Night Speaks of Separation. When He is not there, it is night. John 8:12—Then spake Jesus again unto them, saying, I am the light of the world: he that followeth me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life. When He is not there, it is night. It is night in the Church. Revelation 3:20—Behold, I stand at the door, and knock: if any man hear my voice, and open the door, I will come in to him, and will sup with him, and he with me. When He is not there, it is night. It is night in the Church. It is night for the Bride presently, but because she is progressing on in the Lord, she is beginning to get a vision of better things. Ultimate Goal to Run After We do have weaknesses, but our goal is God’s Eternal Purpose. > I Corinthians 15:57,58—But thanks be to God, which giveth us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ. 58 Therefore, my beloved brethren, be ye stedfast, unmoveable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, forasmuch as ye know that your labour is not in vain in the Lord. Ultimate Goal to Run After We do have weaknesses, but our goal is God’s Eternal Purpose. II Corinthians 2:14—Now thanks be unto God, which always causeth us to triumph in Christ, and maketh manifest the savour of his knowledge by us in every place. 2. Night Speaks of Sin. Anything that licenses sin is of the devil. > Romans 1:25—Who changed the truth of God into a lie, and worshipped and served the creature more than the Creator, who is blessed for ever. Amen. > Romans 13:12-14 — 12 The night is far spent, the day is at hand: let us therefore cast off the works of darkness, and let us put on the armour of light. 13 Let us walk honestly, as in the day; not in rioting and drunkenness, not in chambering and wantonness, not in strife and envying. 14 But put ye on the Lord Jesus Christ, and make not provision for the flesh, to fulfil the lusts thereof. 3. Night Speaks of Death. > John 9:4—I must work the works of him that sent me, while it is day: the night cometh, when no man can work. There is a time when you will not be able to avail to yourself what is provided. FALSE: A lot of people believe only that there is going to be a wonderful transformation ONLY after we leave this world. NOW IS THE TIME TO WORK. > Matthew 16:18 — And I say also unto thee, That thou art Peter, and upon this rock I will build my church; and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it. ### B. The Day > John 11: 24,25—Martha saith unto him, I know that he shall rise again in the resurrection at the last day. 25 Jesus said unto her, I am the resurrection, and the life: he that believeth in me, though he were dead, yet shall he live: [![sunrise-on-the-coast.jpg](https://bible.exchange/uploads/images/gallery/2021-10/scaled-1680-/sunrise-on-the-coast.jpg)](https://bible.exchange/uploads/images/gallery/2021-10/sunrise-on-the-coast.jpg) There is a day wholly of light and no darkness at all. (I John 1:5) > John 11: 24,25 — …I am the resurrection, and the life… There is a day wholly of light and no darkness. > Philippians 3:10—That I may know him, and the power of his resurrection, and the fellowship of his sufferings, being made conformable unto his death; 1. Day Speaks of Light. 2. Day Speaks of Truth. People are entertaining things that may not be altogther true—some very strange doctrinal points, but we must strive for unity of the Spirit. Eph. 4:3,13; Rom. 10:17; Eph. 4:14 Are there children in the Church? Many preachers are unwise with money. > Joh 2:16—And said unto them that sold doves, Take these things hence; make not my Father's house an house of merchandise. > Mt 21:13—And said unto them, It is written, My house shall be called the house of prayer; but ye have made it a den of thieves. Even thought there is Darkness… When we see all of this darkness, In the midst of it all, there is a light about to break. 3. Day Speaks of Righteousness. Revelation 13:12; 19:7 Can you walk in righteousness? YES, the Bible says so. When is the Bride going to wear robes of white? NOW, in this present world. > Romans 13:12 — The night is far spent, the day is at hand: let us therefore cast off the works of darkness, and let us put on the armour of light. > Revelation 19:7,8—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. 8 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. ## II. Bride’s Prevailing Prayer > "…turn, my beloved, and be thou like a roe or a young hart …" Her vision drives her to prayer. Vision will produce real prayer. ### A. The Content of Her Prayer > “…turn, my beloved…” “turn” turn back She begs for her beloved’s return to her. She needs Him: To Lead Her To Support Her To Encourage Her > 1Pe 5:8 ¶ Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour: ### B. The Urgency of Her Prayer > “…And be thou like a roe or a young hart…” Come Swiftly – “like a roe” Bring Hope – “ or a young hart” Turn the darkness. > Re 22:20 ¶ He which testifieth these things saith, Surely I come quickly. Amen. Even so, come, Lord Jesus. You can be in the rapture and endure the tribulation hour. The church is going to be here. Do a quick work! > Ps 22:1 ¶ <<To the chief Musician upon Aijeleth Shahar, A Psalm of David.> Aijeleth Shahar – “hind/hart/deer of the dawn” ## III. Bride’s Present Condition She has become Aware of Her Condition Someone tells you how you are and you get upset or retaliate. We don’t listen to our neighbors. We don’t listen to what the watchmen say. You will respond to… When you see it for yourself by the ministry of the Spirit! There is a vast difference between the Spirit touching places in our lives than just a preacher or a friend. > “…upon the mountains of Bether.” Bether means division or separation. The Bride has some mountains that have caused separation. Indifference First Sunday preaching at the church. I came fired up. “Help us not get too excited about this thing.” Who shall separate us from the love of God? I can separate myself by my own indifference. What caused the mountains? - Indifference - Unfaithfulness - Self-willed - Unbelief - Slothfulness Jesus come to us on our mountains and help us! Unfaithfulness Not necessarily outright rebellion, but little by little. God is faithful. Tell Jacks on I would like to see him. So he travelled all night long…General Jackson reporting for duty. Your slightest wish is my supreme order. Self-Willed I will do as I want and no one will tell me different. The little Bride will not have this kind of attitude. Unbelief Unbelief is the greatest hindrance you will face in life. “Chain Letters.” I tear it up and challenge the devil to do anything about it. To fear is to believe it. To fear involves negative. Faith involves truth. We have so much confidence in the things that we fear. Under Ladder, broken mirrors, superstition Unbelief FAITH NOT FEAR! Believe God and the devil cannot hurt you. Tear up those chain letters. Greater is He that is in you. > 1 John 4:4 ¶ Ye are of God, little children, and have overcome them: because greater is he that is in you, than he that is in the world.t is in you!# SOS 3:1-4 Restoring Lost Fellowship preached: April 25, 1979 by James R. Reynolds, Sr. # Restoring Lost Fellowship text: Song of Solomon 3:1-4 ## Introduction > Song of Solomon 3:1-4 — 1 By night on my bed I sought him whom my soul loveth: I sought him, but I found him not. 2 I will rise now, and go about the city in the streets, and in the broad ways I will seek him whom my soul loveth: I sought him, but I found him not. 3 The watchmen that go about the city found me: to whom I said, Saw ye him whom my soul loveth? 4 It was but a little that I passed from them, but I found him whom my soul loveth: I held him, and would not let him go, until I had brought him into my mother's house, and into the chamber of her that conceived me. - - - - - - ## I. The Need to Search - "I sought Him" ### 1. Something had separated them. ### 2. When the Holy Spirit is grieved then fellowship is broken. ### 3. THINGS have a way of separating us. ### 4. She sought Him because she feels deeply her need. ### 5. The more precious and real He is to us, the more we deeply feel the loss of fellowship. - - - - - - ## II. The Time to Search - "By Night" ### 1. When you FIRST feel your loss. The sense of darkness. ### 2. It is always night, when He is not there. ### 3. Distance implies darkness as He is the light! ### 4. Don't wait until you lose the FEELING OF NEED. - - - - - - ## III. The Manner of Search - ### 1. "On My Bed" The bed is a place of ease and inactivity. He is not found lying on her bed. > Jeremiah 29:13 — And ye shall seek me, and find me, when ye shall search for me with all your heart. ### 2. "In the Streets" She is out of bed and out into Society. She is seeking the living among the dead. (Luke 24:5) ### 3. Among "the Watchmen" Watchmen today are not in touch with Him. - - - - - - ## IV. The Results of the Search ### 1. "I FOUND HIM" - Beyond the watchmen. - "I passed from them." v.3 - "I found HIM" ### 2. "I HELD HIM", v. 4 - "would not let him go" - "Mother's house" Where the Bride was birthed. - The Church - We need to bring Him into the Church ("Mother's House") - Not all will want Him. - But some will.# SOS 3:6 The Bridegroom Reflected preached: May 2, 1979 by James R. Reynolds, Sr. Song of Solomon chapter 3, beginning to read from verse one. We are going to read the first six verses. > Song of Solomon 3:1-6 — By night on my bed I sought him whom my soul loveth: I sought him, but I found him not. 2 I will rise now, and go about the city in the streets, and in the broad ways I will seek him whom my soul loveth: I sought him, but I found him not. 3 The watchmen that go about the city found me: to whom I said, Saw ye him whom my soul loveth? 4 It was but a little that I passed from them, but I found him whom my soul loveth: I held him, and would not let him go, until I had brought him into my mother's house, and into the chamber of her that conceived me. 5 I charge you, O ye daughters of Jerusalem, by the roes, and by the hinds of the field, that ye stir not up, nor awake my love, till he please. 6 ¶ Who is this that cometh out of the wilderness like pillars of smoke, perfumed with myrrh and frankincense, with all powders of the merchant? Verse 6 is what we are mostly concerned with for this lesson: > 6 ¶ Who is this that cometh out of the wilderness like pillars of smoke, perfumed with myrrh and frankincense, with all powders of the merchant? Now we have not gone into a lengthy discussion here on verse five because we've pretty well covered that in verse seven of chapter 2 and you notice it is the same thing being said in chapter 2 verse seven that says... Song 2:7 I charge you, O ye daughters of Jerusalem, by the roes, and by the hinds of the field, that ye stir not up, nor awake my love, till he please. Song 3:5 I charge you, O ye daughters of Jerusalem, by the roes, and by the hinds of the field, that ye stir not up, nor awake my love, till he please. Although there is the same wording being used, the same thought is not expressed. I do not feel that it is necessary to go into a long thing to explain that to you. So, just a few comments and then we'll get into the lesson for tonight In chapter 2 she is telling the daughters of Jerusalem those that were round about her not to stir him up because of her own personal needs and wants and desires. She was seeking for something for herself and she did not them to stir him up or to frighten him off. That there will be nothing that would offend him and drive him away from her. “stir not up, nor awake my love, till he please.” But here in 3:5 the thought is not in relationship to her, but in relationship to her mother’s house and to her family and to those that were around her. I am sure as you see the application. The further we go on with the Lord and the closer that we get to him the more we are concerned not just with our self but with others. And there is a great concern in the heart of the little bride for those that are not as fortunate to know and to understand and to comprehend. It is sad when you know that truth is being related and people can’t even grasp it. Not that they are not hearing truth, but can't grasp truth. So her cry is don't stir him, don't offend him in any way that He would leave. Give ample opportunity to everyone to hear and to respond. So this is her cry. She is much concerned with those that are around about her. And I've said this many times, I believe that the bride is going to have a vision for souls and for the church. Although the church doesn't have a vision of the bride the bride should have a vision of the church. Have compassion, have love, have something in their soul. Because if we have something to share we should want to share it. We have something that is worthwhile. It is worth sharing, it is worth having. No price is too great to have it; no price is too great to keep it. Don’t stir him up don’t offend him, give them opportunity until they heard and heard well and had opportunity to respond. "The Bridegroom Reflected" verse 6, "Who is this that cometh out of the wilderness like pillars of smoke, perfumed with myrrh and frankincense, with all powders of the merchant?" The bridegroom reflected or the bridegroom's reflection. Reflected glare? Reflected in some places. As you see the overall truth relationship to the Scripture you'll see that he is speaking definitely of Israel. But there is also a reflection of that Israel in the lives of others. We see a reflection of the bridegroom and the life of the bride. The life of the bridegroom is reflected in the Scripture speaks about us as being imitators of who? Christ. And we are change from glory to glory into the same image. What image? What image or we been changed into? Into Christ's image. As we both hold him and we were flat as the moon reflects the light of the sun the bride reflects the light of the bridegroom. And the lesson we are dealing with the reflection of the bridegroom and the bride. First we see it in relationship to temptation. 1. Reflected In Temptation "Who is this that cometh out of the wilderness?" 1. The Question Answered 1. Asked about our Lord - "Who is this?" This question is not answered directly but is answered by inference. Who is this? How many times was that very question asked of Jesus? "Who art thou?" Over and over again was Jesus asked. Even at the very end as Jesus did before Pilate and Pilate asks him, "Who art thou?" Who are you? Are you the son of God? Are you the king of Israel? In these verses they are talking about Jesus but also they are talking about that reflection which is seen in the bride. 2. Also asked of the bride - "Who is this?" Can you remember when the bride first came out of Jerusalem they had a lot to say about her--she was black, she was not beautiful, she was not well accepted, she was totally rejected. But now, they are mystified by her and are saying, "Who is this?" Will the church ever come to the place where she will recognize who the little bride is? Oh yes, but it will be too late. You notice she is coming out of the wilderness. She will not be coming out of the wilderness until he calls her. But there will come a time when the little bride she escapes all these things and then their eyes to be opened and they'll say, "Who is this? I thought she was uncomely. I thought she was black. I thought that she was the outcast and the off scouring of the world." But when she comes out of the wilderness, they will stand mystified by her. It is a beautiful thing to see God's plan of God's purpose working out. Sometimes all we can see is the present and God tries to get us to look beyond the present. The present is not always all that glorious. The present yields us all kinds of sorrows and rejections and sufferings and afterwards yield yields something else. What do these things yield afterwards? The peaceable fruit of righteousness. Hebrews 12:11Now no chastening for the present seemeth to be joyous, but grievous: nevertheless afterward it yieldeth the peaceable fruit of righteousness unto them which are exercised thereby. Now we all want the peaceable fruit of righteousness, but are we willing to pay the price? For the little bride is reflected is reflecting that which her bridegroom has already gone through. He is already traversed this way prior. And the question naturally is answered in the life of Jesus but is also answered in the life of the little bride. She will follow in his footsteps. How many of you understand that the footsteps of Jesus do not lead to a throne in this life? Where do they lead? They lead to a cross outside of the city. Still want to follow him? Still want the best that he has to offer to you? And as the gallant will begin to see some of these impurities to work on of our lives because of that. This is what God is after. God is after something glorious in us. And to put something glorious in us. Now we see that the answer comes back to that which is inferred in the text it is the Lord and also it is the bride reflecting all that he was in all that he went through. Now the second thing: 2. The Place of Training 1. Christ learned obedience by the things he suffered. We are in a training process. Jesus himself learned obedience by the things that he suffered. Hebrews 5:8Though he were a Son, yet learned he obedience by the things which he suffered; Hebrews 2:10For 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. Now, our armies have totally changed in these last few years, but a few years ago back in the old time a captain was a man that led his army. He did not sit in the back and give orders but he led them. Even generals themselves would go out into the field of battle and lead them. And Christ as our captain, he is leading us he is not just sending us. He is leading us. "And the captain of our salvation was made perfect through sufferings." Who is this that comes up out of the wilderness? When you see him in Bethlehem, when you see them round about Jordan in Jerusalem, there is no beauty that you would think that he was anything but was a normal man. The Scripture speaks of him like a root. Isa 53:1-2Who hath believed our report? and to whom is the arm of the LORD revealed? 2 For he shall grow up before him as a tender plant, and as a root out of a dry ground: he hath no form nor comeliness; and when we shall see him, there is no beauty that we should desire him.3 He is despised and rejected of men; a man of sorrows, and acquainted with grief: and we hid as it were our faces from him; he was despised, and we esteemed him not. Because of Isaiah's expressions here many have taken these verses to mean that Jesus was very ugly and homely. I do not believe that Jesus was ugly or homely. I believe that he was a man. A handsome man. When Isaiah says, "there is no beauty that we should desire him" he is describing a time of great stress and struggle when Christ was rejected by men and scorched by men. When man was finished brutalizing Christ there is nothing beautiful about him. He was totally a substitute for us. But as far as him and his natural life, I believe he was handsome man, but there is nothing indicative of Christ being outstanding physically speaking. 2. Temptation in the wilderness. And he did not come to reign on the throne but he came to die in a cross. He came into the training ground. "Who is this that cometh up..." where? Where is he coming out of? The wilderness! We see Jesus passing the early parts of his life around Nazareth. He is known as the Nazarene and he is known as a carpenter's son. And we see him in this area in the early part of his life and he does not travel much but stays in that area until he is about 30 years of age. And then he entered into his public ministry, the Bible says he went to John being about 30 years of age, down into the regions of Beth-abara and Jordan and he was baptized by John. When Jesus came up out of the waters of baptism something happened. Now the Bible says that the spirit rested upon him like a dove. But something further than that, it says that he was led by the Spirit away to a specific place. Where was he led away by the spirit? Into the wilderness! We like the Lord to lead us out of the wilderness. But it is the wilderness that is the training ground. You are not going to get to the throne and a rocking chair. You are not going to reign with him in a place of power and glory through luxury and through the finery's of life. That does not mean that you cannot have them, but you'll never arranged because of them. You will reign because you have been in the wilderness! 3. The life of temptation and testing. We see him in that specific experience at 30 years of age going into the wilderness but in reality Jesus is already in the wilderness. His whole life was like a wilderness. Rejected, scoffed, mocked, falsely accused; isn't that a wilderness? It wasn't just those 40 days that he was tempted and tested the devil himself came to him asking him if he was the son of God but he was constantly being tested and tried was in the wilderness all of his life time. 4. The garden experience of testing. But as he comes to the closing of his life, we find him in a garden, but in reality it was a wilderness -- the greatest trauma and test that he ever faced. He was in agony of spirit. He groaned in the spirit. Luke 22:44And being in an agony he prayed more earnestly: and his sweat was as it were great drops of blood falling down to the ground. Have you ever grown because of the pressure? Have you ever agonize because you could inform syllables and you just groaned? Jesus was not groaning for himself, he was groaning for the condition of the world. Luke says that he being in agony, prayed more earnestly until his sweat was as great drops of blood. That was a wilderness. The final chapter, it appeared was in place, everything arranged as it was supposed to be, then all of a sudden we see one burst forth out of the wilderness triumphantly! The birds are singing, the sun is shining, and all of heaven seems to be ringing -- "Who is this coming up out of the wilderness?" Jesus divested hell of all its power and glory (if there is any glory to it). He divested hell of the keys of death and hell. He has the keys of death and hell at his side. He triumphs over the wilderness. Who is this coming out? It wasn't a mystery because he was like a man coming out of battle crawling on his hands and knees barely escaping the battle. Oftentimes it's how we come out of a battle, we come out on her hands and knees and someone could look at us all worn and say, "Who is this?" We did not make it through, we escaped from it! He was triumphant over all the powers of hell and Satan himself! He bruised him and pulverized him and he has been staggering ever since! He has never gained his focus back. 5. The bride will come to perfection in the wilderness. But we see also that in the life of the little bride she is going to learn something and she's going to learn it in the wilderness. The little bride if she comes to perfection, she is going to be perfected in the wilderness. God is so particular in his arrangement of everything that if he wanted us to know that we were going to be perfected over there He would've said so. But she is coming up out of the wilderness with all of the glory of her bridegroom. We are in the wilderness, where in the training graphs, or in the bouquet, we have been put on the obstacle course. We are in a process. We might not understand the process, but we understand the principle. God is trying to work out something in our lives. We see only just so far. We can see just as the sun comes up of God wants us to see beyond the sunrise and see his eternal program in his eternal plan. That God has something for us that is far greater than this present world. God is not spending his energy to fit in fashion you just have you lived in this life but God is fashioning you to be a vessel unto honor for eternity for glory on to him. Who is this coming up out of the wilderness? "I cannot understand!" Then get beyond it and see the final product that God has in mind. No Temptation presently is glorious, but it produces something that is glorious. God is after something is in our life. We see the bridegroom's reflection in the bride not only in temptation but also in power. 2. Reflected In Power “Who is this that cometh out of the wilderness like pillars of smoke,” 1. Pillars Speak of Support 1. He was supported in the wilderness. Matthew 4:11Then the devil leaveth him, and, behold, angels came and ministered unto him. 2. The bride is supported. You would not make it. Could Jesus and made it without the Angels? I think it was more for our sake that it was written than for his. I am sure that he could've made it but it sure did make it much more easier for him. The revelation of a thing is for you and I. We need support. Without support we will not make it. And all of the areas of trial and testing we need support. 2 Corinthians 12:7-9—And lest I should be exalted above measure through the abundance of the revelations, there was given to me a thorn in the flesh, the messenger of Satan to buffet me, lest I should be exalted above measure. 8 For this thing I besought the Lord thrice, that it might depart from me. 9 And he said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness. Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me. My grace is sufficient for you. I am not going to remove it but I'm going to support you. I'm going to help you. If God doesn't support you and God doesn't help you will not come out of the wilderness. Song of Solomon 6:4—Thou art beautiful, O my love, as Tirzah, comely as Jerusalem, terrible as an army with banners. you do not see an army coming off the battlefield waving banners unless they have been the Tories. They come back with their tails between their legs like a dog when they have been licked. When they have been victorious in battle they let those banners wave. They come forth waving their banners because they have the victory. Ro 8:37 Nay, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him that loved us. When you set practical experience beside the promise we see a contrast. We have this... but it says this.... There is a difference. Tried, tested, he can support you. 2. Smoke Speaks of Power and Glory 1. On Sinai -- Exodus 19:18 Exodus 19:18—And mount Sinai was altogether on a smoke, because the LORD descended upon it in fire: and the smoke thereof ascended as the smoke of a furnace, and the whole mount quaked greatly. 2. In the Psalm -- Psalm 18:8 Psalm 18:8—There went up a smoke out of his nostrils, and fire out of his mouth devoured: coals were kindled by it. Psalm 18:3—I will call upon the LORD, who is worthy to be praised: so shall I be saved from mine enemies.4 The sorrows of death compassed me, and the floods of ungodly men made me afraid. 5 The sorrows of hell compassed me about: the snares of death prevented me. 6 In my distress I called upon the LORD, and cried unto my God: he heard my voice out of his temple, and my cry came before him, even into his ears. 7 Then the earth shook and trembled; the foundations also of the hills moved and were shaken, because he was wroth. 8 There went up a smoke out of his nostrils, and fire out of his mouth devoured: coals were kindled by it. 3. In Isaiah -- Isaiah 6:1-4 Isaiah 6:1-4—In the year that king Uzziah died I saw also the Lord sitting upon a throne, high and lifted up, and his train filled the temple. 2 Above it stood the seraphims: each one had six wings; with twain he covered his face, and with twain he covered his feet, and with twain he did fly. 3 And one cried unto another, and said, Holy, holy, holy, is the LORD of hosts: the whole earth is full of his glory. 4 And the posts of the door moved at the voice of him that cried, and the house was filled with smoke. 4. In the wilderness As soon as Jesus returned from the wilderness, He returned in the power of the spirit. The bride will not be clothed in power and glory until she goes through the wilderness. Luke 4:13-14—And when the devil had ended all the temptation, he departed from him for a season. 14—And Jesus returned in the power of the Spirit into Galilee: and there went out a fame of him through all the region round about. As soon as Jesus returned from the wilderness, He returned in the power of the spirit. The bride will not be clothed in power and glory until she goes through the wilderness. It doesn’t take much power to shout or dance but it will take the power of God to be displayed in such a way that God is Glorified. Mark 1:24 Saying, Let us alone; what have we to do with thee, thou Jesus of Nazareth? art thou come to destroy us? I know thee who thou art, the Holy One of God. Luke 4:34 Saying, Let us alone; what have we to do with thee, thou Jesus of Nazareth? art thou come to destroy us? I know thee who thou art; the Holy One of God. 35 And Jesus rebuked him, saying, Hold thy peace, and come out of him. And when the devil had thrown him in the midst, he came out of him, and hurt him not. Song 3:6Who is this that cometh out of the wilderness like pillars of smoke, perfumed with myrrh and frankincense, with all powders of the merchant? 3. Reflected In Character "Perfumed with myrrh and frankincense with all powders of the merchant?" A Process that God wants to bring out of you. God is going to bring some fragrance out of our lives. The beauty of Character:She is beautiful; she is more beautiful she is filled with fragrance, look at her. Just like the Rose When you squeeze it gives a fragrance. 1. Perfumed – fragrance 2. Myrrh -- better -- trial -- test – proven 3. Frankincense -- sweet smelling spice. 4. Powders of the merchant. God is gathering something beautiful in our lives, through the bitter experiences, trials sufferings, some difficult places of our lives. The plan and Purpose of God is to make us sweet in the presence of our friends or enemies, but even in the presence of God. It is in the desert that the costly spices and gum are found. In the deserts of Arabia in the mountains of Palestine. It is in the hard places that the most precious is found.The tree is pierced -- gum oozes out. I Peter 4:12-14—Beloved, think it not strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you, as though some strange thing happened unto you: 13 But rejoice, inasmuch as ye are partakers of Christ's sufferings; that, when his glory shall be revealed, ye may be glad also with exceeding joy. 14 If ye be reproached for the name of Christ, happy are ye; for the spirit of glory and of God resteth upon you: on their part he is evil spoken of, but on your part he is glorified. 1. From suffering -- "joy" 2. From testing -- "faith" 3. From rejection -- "humility" 4. From war -- "peace" 5. From Hatred -- "love" # SOS 3:7 The Bridegroom's Bed Preached by James R. Reynolds, Sr. on May 9, 1979. > Song of Solomon 3:7,8 — Behold his bed, which is Solomon's; threescore valiant men are about it, of the valiant of Israel. 8 They all hold swords, being expert in war: every man hath his sword upon his thigh because of fear in the night. \## Introduction - I. The Meaning of It - II. The Characteristics of It - III. The Safety of It ## I. The Meaning of It > Song 3:7 “Behold his bed” - look at His Bed This seems to be the answer to the question that has been asked. “Who is this Luke 3:15 And as the people were in expectation, and all men mused in their hearts of John, whether he were the Christ, or not; John1:23 He said, I am the voice of one crying in the wilderness, Make straight the way of the Lord, as said the prophet Esaias. 22 Then said they unto him, Who art thou? that we may give an answer to them that sent us. What sayest thou of thyself? 25 And they asked him, and said unto him, Why baptizest thou then, if thou be not that Christ, nor Elias, neither that prophet? 26 John answered them, saying, I baptize with water: but there standeth one among you, whom ye know not; 27 He it is, who coming after me is preferred before me, whose shoe's latchet I am not worthy to unloose. When John looked at himself he saw himself only as a voice, not as a great one but just a voice. S.O.S. 3:7 “Behold his bed” 1. She is His Resting place The Bride is His resting place or dwelling place Mat. 8:20 And Jesus saith unto him, The foxes have holes, and the birds of the air have nests; but the Son of man hath not where to lay his head. Luke 9:58 And Jesus said unto him, Foxes have holes, and birds of the air have nests; but the Son of man hath not where to lay his head. 38 Then Jesus turned, and saw them following, and saith unto them, What seek ye? They said unto him, Rabbi, (which is to say, being interpreted, Master,) where dwellest thou? 39 He saith unto them, Come and see. They came and saw where he dwelt, and abode with him that day: for it was about the tenth hour. Eph 3:17 That Christ may dwell in your hearts by faith; that ye, being rooted and grounded in love, 1 8 May be able to comprehend with all saints what is the breadth, and length, and depth, and height; 19 And to know the love of Christ, which passeth knowledge, that ye might be filled with all the fulness of God. Where is His Resting place? Christ may dwell in your heart Romans 11:36 For of him, and through him, and to him, are all things: to whom be glory for ever. Amen Col 1:16 For by him were all things created, that are in heaven, and that are in earth, visible and invisible, whether they be thrones, or dominions, or principalities, or powers: all things were created by him, and for him: HE HAD NO RESTING PLACE BECAUSE THEY DIDN’T KNOW HIM - THEY SHOULD KNOW HIM PROPHESY PROMISES PREACHING Mark 7:8 For laying aside the commandment of God, ye hold the tradition of men, as the washing of pots and cups: and many other such like things ye do. Rev. 3:20 Behold, I stand at the door, and knock: if any man hear my voice, and open the door, I will come in to him, and will sup with him, and he with me. Psalm 24:7 Lift up your heads, O ye gates; and be ye lift up, ye everlasting doors; and the King of glory shall come in. 8 Who is this King of glory? The LORD strong and mighty, the LORD mighty in battle. 9 Lift up your heads, O ye gates; even lift them up, ye everlasting doors; and the King of glory shall come in. 10 Who is this King of glory? The LORD of hosts, he is the King of glory. He is Knocking \*\*\* He is looking for a place of rest and refreshing 2. She is His Refreshing 04296. hjm mittah, mit-taw' a bed for sleeping or eating; a sofa, (place of refreshing) chamber, bier. “I will come in to him, and will sup with him, and he with me” What door is He knocking at? “If any man hear my voice” satisfy Him, (Heart-life)commitment, dedication Pleasing Him – He notices everything you do. Visit, need, sick, prison, Mat. 25:37 Then shall the righteous answer him, saying, Lord, when saw we thee an hungred, and fed thee? or thirsty, and gave thee drink? 38 When saw we thee a stranger, and took thee in? or naked, and clothed thee? 39 Or when saw we thee sick, or in prison, and came unto thee? 44 Then shall they also answer him, saying, Lord, when saw we thee an hungred, or athirst, or a stranger, or naked, or sick, or in prison, and did not minister unto thee? He finds something satisfying from the Bride. (He is sick with the Church) He is about ready to spue the church out of His mouth. 2. The Characteristics of It. 1. “Behold His Bed Which is Solomon’s” 2. Not Solomon the King but the Heavenly Solomon The King has an expensive Bed 1. She is Expensive The price Jesus paid for us – Jesus paid an expensive price for us. The value of a soul – (Worth more than the world) The value of something is seen in its price. $1.6 million –Bed (12) $85k handful $75,000 (10) $50, 000 several $20,000 many $2,800.oo - pillow Mark 8:36 For what shall it profit a man, if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul? Not only are these sheets made of the finest merino wool backed with 1000-count Egyptian cotton sheet, they’re also threaded with 22 carat gold. Reg. pillow case $2,400 queen 100 count 40-30 What is the value of the Bride? LOOK at the price Jesus paid for His Bride. (No one paid that price) He paid His price not what we were worth, not the asking price but more. Some are more valuable than others, Training, Education, teaching, tutoring There is something that is more valuable within us that far supersedes what is in those of the world. 2. She is Beautiful Solomon’s bed had curtains – costly but beautiful Rev. 19:8 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. 1. Imputed righteousness 1. Received through faith in Him into our account. 2. Imparted righteousness 1. Attained through faith in action, Righteous acts ### 3. She is Immaculate “Clean and white” 1. Upright, Honest Works, (No wrinkles, spots, crumbs) ### A Clean Bed 1. The Safety of It 1. “threescore valiant men are about it, of the valiant of Israel” 1. It is well guarded – Christ guards His bed. Ps 34:7 The angel of the LORD encampeth round about them that fear him, and delivereth them. Joshua 5:13 And it came to pass, when Joshua was by Jericho, that he lifted up his eyes and looked, and, behold, there stood a man over against him with his sword drawn in his hand: and Joshua went unto him, and said unto him, Art thou for us, or for our adversaries? 14 And he said, Nay; but as captain of the host of the LORD am I now come. And Joshua fell on his face to the earth, and did worship, and said unto him, What saith my lord unto his servant? You’re my resting place, I am here to protect you, Elisha In Dothan with his servant. 2Kings 6:17 And Elisha prayed, and said, LORD, I pray thee, open his eyes, that he may see. And the LORD opened the eyes of the young man; and he saw: and, behold, the mountain was full of horses and chariots of fire round about Elisha. ANGELS all around Him – well guarded Hebrews 1:14 Are they not all ministering spirits, sent forth to minister for them who shall be heirs of salvation? 1. Guarded by well trained Guardsmen Song 3:8 “They all hold swords, being expert in war” “being expert in war” Expert they know what they are doing 1. The Guardsmen are in a posture of defense. Song 3:8 They all hold swords, being expert in war: every man hath his sword upon his thigh because of fear in the night. They all hold swords Well instructed how to use it. Deut 32:10 He found him in a desert land, and in the waste howling wilderness; he led him about, he instructed him, he kept him as the apple of his eye. Zech 2:8 For thus saith the LORD of hosts; After the glory hath he sent me unto the nations which spoiled you: for he that toucheth you toucheth the apple of his eye. Psalm 77:6 I call to remembrance my song in the night: I commune with mine own heart: and my spirit made diligent search. Dan. 10:20 Then said he, Knowest thou wherefore I come unto thee? and now will I return to fight with the prince of Persia: and when I am gone forth, lo, the prince of Grecia shall come. Ro 16:25 Now to him that is of power to stablish you according to my gospel, and the preaching of Jesus Christ, according to the revelation of the mystery, which was kept secret since the world began, 1Pe 1:5 Who are kept by the power of God through faith unto salvation ready to be revealed in the last time. Re 12:7 And there was war in heaven: Michael and his angels fought against the dragon; and the dragon fought and his angels, # SOS 3:9,10 Solomon's Chariot Preached by James R. Reynolds, Sr. on May 16, 1979. > Song of Solomon 3:9,10 — King Solomon made himself a chariot of the wood of Lebanon. 10 He made the pillars thereof of silver, the bottom thereof of gold, the covering of it of purple, the midst thereof being paved with love, for the daughters of Jerusalem. ## Introduction The chariot is an ancient means of conveyance. As we look into the Scripture, I pray that you see what God has provided for them that love Him. > 1 Corinthians 2:9 — But as it is written, Eye hath not seen, nor ear heard, neither have entered into the heart of man, the things which God hath prepared for **them that love him**.
**BUT**
> 1 Corinthians 2:10 — But God hath revealed them unto us by his Spirit: for the Spirit searcheth all things, yea, the deep things of God. The lesson here has much to do with the "hidden things." ## I. The Making of the Chariot > King Solomon made himself a chariot … ### A. Symbolic of Salvation ### B. Designed by Him ### C. Purchased by Him ## II. The Material of the Chariot ### A. Acacia Wood ### B. Silver ### C. Gold ### D. Purple ### E. Love ## III. The Ministry of the Chariot ### A. Initial Salvation ### B. Progressive Salvation ### C. Complete Salvation# SOS 3:11 Seeing the Bridegroom in a New Dimension Preached by James R. Reynolds, Sr. on May 23, 1979 > Song of Solomon 3:11 — Go forth, O ye daughters of Zion, and behold king Solomon with the crown wherewith his mother crowned him in the day of his espousals, and in the day of the gladness of his heart. Our Experience with God and our Growth in the Spirit is contingent upon our Revelation of Him Mat. 16:15 He saith unto them, But whom say ye that I am? 16 And Simon Peter answered and said, Thou art the Christ, the Son of the living God. 17 And Jesus answered and said unto him, Blessed art thou, Simon Barjona: for flesh and blood hath not revealed it unto thee, but my Father which is in heaven. 18 And I say also unto thee, That thou art Peter, and upon this rock I will build my church; and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it. How is He going to build the Church? – by that which He has already said unto Peter By the Revelation of Himself Our Growth, our edification is dependent upon our Revelation of Him. Get a new look at the Bridegroom and see Him in a greater Revelation in a greater Dimension, in a new Dimension. Song 3:11— Go forth, O ye daughters of Zion, and behold king Solomon with the crown wherewith his mother crowned him in the day of his espousals, and in the day of the gladness of his heart. If we are going to grow and mature into the image of Christ we must see Him in all that He is. You see Him, You go forth, You behold Him, You must see Him for yourself, You must apply Him to your life. If you want to escape the Tribulation hour we must see Christ and totally appropriate Him to your life and apply all the benefits that He has provided for us. 1. The Vision – seeing Christ in a new Dimension 1. Go forth, O ye daughters of Zion, and behold king Solomon” We need a vision of Christ in a new Dimension To have the vision there is something we must understand, that there is something here that He demands. 1. Separation Demanded — “Go forth”- leave all else to see Him only - The great Body of the Church today is in motion but is not going anywhere. “go forth” – “come out from among them” What can we do? We must lift our voice in opposition to the things that are going on. Who do we want to be accepted with? Do we want to be accepted with man’s organization? or do we want to be accepted with the Lord? 2Cor. 6:17—Wherefore come out from among them, and be ye separate, saith the Lord, and touch not the unclean thing; and I will receive you, Luke 16:15—And he said unto them, Ye are they which justify yourselves before men; but God knoweth your hearts: for that which is highly esteemed among men is abomination in the sight of God. If you are going to see Christ in a greater Revelation we will have to separate our self, separation is demanded, you will have to separate yourself from the apathy, the unclean things, false doctrines, false things, false ways, mediocre, and lukewarm, from the cold and the indifferent the unwillingness. He will reveal Himself to those that are hungering and thirsting for God. The little Bride will answer the call. 2. The Challenge Directed — “O ye daughters of Zion The challenge is directed to a specific group –to the daughters of Zion. Where does the little Bride come from? ------------She is coming out of the True Church Daughters are those that have been born into the family. - The Bride will come out of the True Church. - The whole church is called the daughters of Zion - The church in part will listen. - The Bride will listen and answer the call. - OVERCOMER - MANCHILD - BRIDE The Lamb’s Wife Twenty four Elders with GOLDEN Crowns to lay at His feet Typified by the two Cherubim’s of the Mercy Seat 100-fold Perfect Man to the full stature of Christ Chosen without sin Full Matured Son’s Adopted—Positioned Son’s A Rib – A Chaste Virgin Full Grown Glorified Saints Partaker of His Holiness Partaker of His Divine Nature More than a Conqueror Made One with Him on the Throne Changed into the same image Kings and Priests From the gutter most to the Uttermost The Believer is to separate from the worldly church – Not just from the world 2Tim. 3:5 Having a form of godliness, but denying the power thereof: from such turn away. The Bride will separate herself from the worldly Church, in Experience and Truth. This is a close walk 3. The Condition Indicated — “and behold King Solomon” 1. Behold Him as the Lamb of God – John 1:29—The next day John seeth Jesus coming unto him, and saith, Behold the Lamb of God, which taketh away the sin of the world. Rev. 1:10—I was in the Spirit on the Lord's day, and heard behind me a great voice, as of a trumpet, 11—Saying, I am Alpha and Omega, the first and the last: and, What thou seest, write in a book, and send it unto the seven churches which are in Asia; unto Ephesus, and unto Smyrna, and unto Pergamos, and unto Thyatira, and unto Sardis, and unto Philadelphia, and unto Laodicea. - Before you see Him as King, you must see Him as Saviour. Hebrews 6:6 If they shall fall away, to renew them again unto repentance; seeing they crucify to themselves the Son of God afresh, and put him to an open shame. 1. Behold Him as the man John 19:5—Then came Jesus forth, wearing the crown of thorns, and the purple robe. And Pilate saith unto them, Behold the man! See Him as He really is that we might become apart that.. Live as Jesus lived, walk as Jesus walked, do as Jesus did and walk among men as Jesus did. See Him as a man amongst men. 1. A man of Righteousness 2. A man of the Holy Ghost 3. A man of Humility 4. A man of Power 5. A man of Compassion 6. A man of sorrows 7. A man raised from the dead. 1. Behold Him as the King Mat. 21:5—Tell ye the daughter of Sion, Behold, thy King cometh unto thee, meek, and sitting upon an ass, and a colt the foal of an ass. Not only see Him in these experiences but enter into them with Him. 2Cor. 3:18—But we all, with open face beholding as in a glass the glory of the Lord, are changed into the same image from glory to glory, even as by the Spirit of the Lord. 2. The Crowning – 1. ” with the crown wherewith his mother crowned him” 1. The Source – of the Crowning “wherewith his mother crowned him” Some believe the Jewish Church- some humanity 1. The Meaning – The Crown THE CROWN OF 4inch THORNS Crowning would indicate winner or first – Jesus became all that we were indicated by a crown – Not of honor – but of Shame He became the head of all sin, first, before us, what we were, The shame of the Cross 2Cor. 5:21—For he hath made him to be sin for us, who knew no sin; that we might be made the righteousness of God in him. 3. The Espousals – 1. him in the day of his espousals, and in the day of the gladness of his heart” 1. The Meaning – (no loose thing) A binding agreement – but Espousal and Marriage are two different things - Joseph and Mary Mat. 1:18—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. - Christ and the Believer 2Cor. 11:2—For I am jealous over you with godly jealousy: for I have espoused you to one husband, that I may present you as a chaste virgin to Christ. - Not all believers become the Bride - Only those that are faithful to the Written agreement – THE WORD OF GOD If you break that agreement, the Contract is no good. - Present you as a Chaste Virgin to Christ 1. The Results 1. United with Bridegroom – 2. The Bridegroom made Happy 1Co 1:9—God is faithful, by whom ye were called unto the fellowship of his Son Jesus Christ our Lord Eph 3:9—And to make all men see what is the fellowship of the mystery, which from the beginning of the world hath been hid in God, who created all things by Jesus Christ: 1John 1:3—That which we have seen and heard declare we unto you, that ye also may have fellowship with us: and truly our fellowship is with the Father, and with his Son Jesus Christ. John 17:21—That they all may be one; as thou, Father, art in me, and I in thee, that they also may be one in us: that the world may believe that thou hast sent me. Isaiah 53:11—He shall see of the travail of his soul, and shall be satisfied: by his knowledge shall my righteous servant justify many; for he shall bear their iniquities. Hebrews 12:2—Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith; who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God. 1. The Bride also will be made Happy Rev. 3:21 To him that overcometh will I grant to sit with me in my throne, even as I also overcame, and am set down with my Father in his throne. Psalm 4:6 There be many that say, Who will shew us any good? LORD, lift thou up the light of thy countenance upon us. 7 Thou hast put gladness in my heart, more than in the time that their corn and their wine increased. 16:11 Thou wilt shew me the path of life: in thy presence is fulness of joy; at thy right hand there are pleasures for evermore. 17:15 As for me, I will behold thy face in righteousness: I shall be satisfied, when I awake, with thy likeness. 1Peter 1:8 Whom having not seen, ye love; in whom, though now ye see him not, yet believing, ye rejoice with joy unspeakable and full of glory: Re v.19:7 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. 8 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. – Seeing the Bridegroom in a New Dimension– Song 3:11 Go forth, O ye daughters of Zion, and behold king Solomon with the crown wherewith his mother crowned him in the day of his espousals, and in the day of the gladness of his heart. Song of Solomon 3:11— “Go forth, O ye daughters of Zion, and behold king Solomon” Our Experience with God and our Growth in the Spirit is dependent upon our Revelation of Him. Mat. 16:15 He saith unto them, But whom say ye that I am? 16 And Simon Peter answered and said, Thou art the Christ, the Son of the living God. 17 And Jesus answered and said unto him, Blessed art thou, Simon Barjona: for flesh and blood hath not revealed it unto thee, but my Father which is in heaven. 18 And I say also unto thee, That thou art Peter, and upon this rock I will build my church; and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it. How is He going to build the Church? – by that which He has already said unto Peter By the Revelation of Himself Our Growth, our edification is dependent upon our Revelation of Him. Get a new look at the Bridegroom and see Him in a greater Revelation in a greater Dimension, in a new Dimension. Song 3:11— Go forth, O ye daughters of Zion, and behold king Solomon with the crown wherewith his mother crowned him in the day of his espousals, and in the day of the gladness of his heart. If we are going to grow and mature into the image of Christ we must see Him in all that He is. You see Him, You go forth, You behold Him, You must see Him for yourself, You must apply Him to your life. If you want to escape the Tribulation hour we must see Christ and totally appropriate Him to your life and apply all the benefits that He has provided for us. 1. The Vision – seeing Christ in a new Dimension 1. Go forth, O ye daughters of Zion, and behold king Solomon” We need a vision of Christ in a new Dimension To have the vision there is something we must understand, there are some things that He demands and challenges us with.. 1. Separation Demanded — “Go forth”- leave all else to see Him only - The great Body of the Church today is in motion but is not going anywhere. “go forth” – “come out from among them” What can we do? We must lift our voice in opposition to the things that are going on. Like Jesus, John the Baptist, Peter, Paul, John and James (Stephen-Acts7:51) Who do we want to be accepted with? Do we want to be accepted with man’s organization? or do we want to be accepted with the Lord? 2Cor. 6:17—Wherefore come out from among them, and be ye separate, saith the Lord, and touch not the unclean thing; and I will receive you, Luke 16:15—And he said unto them, Ye are they which justify yourselves before men; but God knoweth your hearts: for that which is highly esteemed among men is abomination in the sight of God. If you are going to see Christ in a greater Revelation you will have to separate your self, separation is demanded, you will have to separate yourself from the apathy, the unclean things, false doctrines, false things, false ways, mediocre, and lukewarm, from the cold and the indifferent. He will reveal Himself to those that are hungering and thirsting for God. 1. If you’re going to have a clear proper vision of Jesus you will need to be willing to do His Will. John 7:17 If any man will do his will, he shall know of the doctrine, whether it be of God, or whether I speak of myself. 1. If you’re going to have a clear proper vision of Jesus you will need to Know His Word. John 8:31 Then said Jesus to those Jews which believed on him, If ye continue in my word, then are ye my disciples indeed; 32 And ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free. 1. If you’re going to have a clear proper vision of Jesus you will need to hear His voice. Rev. 3:20 Behold, I stand at the door, and knock: if any man hear my voice, and open the door, I will come in to him, and will sup with him, and he with me. 1. If you’re going to have a clear proper vision of Jesus you will need to obey Him. Acts 5:32 And we are his witnesses of these things; and so is also the Holy Ghost, whom God hath given to them that obey him. Hebrews 5:9 And being made perfect, he became the author of eternal salvation unto all them that obey him; Romans 1:5 By whom we have received grace and apostleship, for obedience to the faith among all nations, for his name Romans 6:16 Know ye not, that to whom ye yield yourselves servants to obey, his servants ye are to whom ye obey; whether of sin unto death, or of obedience unto righteousness? Romans 16:26 But now is made manifest, and by the scriptures of the prophets, according to the commandment of the everlasting God, made known to all nations for the obedience of faith. The little Bride will hear and answer the call. Gen. 24:58 And they called Rebekah, and said unto her, Wilt thou go with this man? And she said, I will go. 2Kings 3:7 And he went and sent to Jehoshaphat the king of Judah, saying, The king of Moab hath rebelled against me: wilt thou go with me against Moab to battle? And he said, I will go up: I am as thou art, my people as thy people, and my horses as thy horses. 2Chron. 18:3 And Ahab king of Israel said unto Jehoshaphat king of Judah, Wilt thou go with me to Ramothgilead? And he answered him, I am as thou art, and my people as thy people; and we will be with thee in the war. 2. Faith is demanded 1. There is a challenge togo forth Heb 11:6 But without faith it is impossible to please him: for he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him. Romans 1:17 For therein is the righteousness of God revealed from faith to faith: as it is written, The just shall live by faith. Romans 10:17 So then faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God. Mal 4:2 But unto you that fear my name shall the Sun of righteousness arise with healing in his wings; and ye shall go forth, and grow up as calves of the stall. - Rev 2:1—Unto the angel of the church of Ephesus write; These things saith he that holdeth the seven stars in his right hand, who walketh in the midst of the seven golden candlesticks; - Re.2:7 He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches; To him that overcometh will I give to eat of the tree of life, which is in the midst of the paradise of God. - Re 2:8—And unto the angel of the church in Smyrna write; These things saith the first and the last, which was dead, and is alive; - Re 2:11 He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches; He that overcometh shall not be hurt of the second death. - Re 2:12—And to the angel of the church in Pergamos write; These things saith he which hath the sharp sword with two edges; - Re 2:17 He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches; To him that overcometh will I give to eat of the hidden manna, and will give him a white stone, and in the stone a new name written, which no man knoweth saving he that receiveth it. Re 2:18—And unto the angel of the church in Thyatira write; These things saith the Son of God, who hath his eyes like unto a flame of fire, and his feet are like fine brass; Re 2:26 And he that overcometh, and keepeth my works unto the end, to him will I give power over the nations: 27 And he shall rule them with a rod of iron; as the vessels of a potter shall they be broken to shivers: even as I received of my Father. 28 And I will give him the morning star. 29 He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches. Re 3:1—And unto the angel of the church in Sardis write; These things saith he that hath the seven Spirits of God, and the seven stars; I know thy works, that thou hast a name that thou livest, and art dead. Re 3:5 He that overcometh, the same shall be clothed in white raiment; and I will not blot out his name out of the book of life, but I will confess his name before my Father, and before his angels. Re 3:6 He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches. Re 3:7—And to the angel of the church in Philadelphia write; These things saith he that is holy, he that is true, he that hath the key of David, he that openeth, and no man shutteth; and shutteth, and no man openeth; Re 3:10 Because thou hast kept the word of my patience, I also will keep thee from the hour of temptation, which shall come upon all the world, to try them that dwell upon the earth. 11 Behold, I come quickly: hold that fast which thou hast, that no man take thy crown. 12 Him that overcometh will I make a pillar in the temple of my God, and he shall go no more out: and I will write upon him the name of my God, and the name of the city of my God, which is new Jerusalem, which cometh down out of heaven from my God: and I will write upon him my new name. Re 3:13 He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches. Re 3:14—And unto the angel of the church of the Laodiceans write; These things saith the Amen, the faithful and true witness, the beginning of the creation of God; Re 3:21 To him that overcometh will I grant to sit with me in my throne, even as I also overcame, and am set down with my Father in his throne. Re 3:22 He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches. 3. The Challenge Directed — “O ye daughters of Zion The challenge is directed to a specific group –to the daughters of Zion. Will the whole Church respond to the call? Where does the little Bride come from? ------------She is coming out of the Church Daughters are those that have been born into the family. - The Bride will come out of the True Church. - The whole church is called the daughters of Zion - The church in part will listen. - The Bride will listen and answer the call. - OVERCOMER - MANCHILD - BRIDE The Lamb’s Wife Twenty four Elders with GOLDEN Crowns to lay at His feet Typified by the two Cherubim’s of the Mercy Seat 100-fold Perfect Man to the full stature of Christ Chosen without sin Full Matured Son’s Adopted—Positioned Son’s A Rib – A Chaste Virgin Full Grown Glorified Saints Partaker of His Holiness Partaker of His Divine Nature More than a Conqueror Made One with Him on the Throne Changed into the same image Kings and Priests the gutter most to the Uttermost The Believer is to separate from the worldly church – Not just from the world The Bride will separate herself from the Church, in Experience and Truth. 2Tim. 3:5 Having a form of godliness, but denying the power thereof: from such turn away. This is a close walk 4. The Condition Indicated — “and behold King Solomon” 1. Behold Him as the Lamb of God – 1. You will never see Him in all His Glory until you have seen Him as the Lamb. 2. You will never see Him in His full Glory with sin in your life. 3. See Him in the Spirit John 1:29—The next day John seeth Jesus coming unto him, and saith, Behold the Lamb of God, which taketh away the sin of the world. Rev. 1:10—I was in the Spirit on the Lord's day, and heard behind me a great voice, as of a trumpet, 11—Saying, I am Alpha and Omega, the first and the last: and, What thou seest, write in a book, and send it unto the seven churches which are in Asia; unto Ephesus, and unto Smyrna, and unto Pergamos, and unto Thyatira, and unto Sardis, and unto Philadelphia, and unto Laodicea. - Before you see Him as King, you must see Him as Saviour. Hebrews 6:6 If they shall fall away, to renew them again unto repentance; seeing they crucify to themselves the Son of God afresh, and put him to an open shame. 1. Behold Him as the man John 19:5—Then came Jesus forth, wearing the crown of thorns, and the purple robe. And Pilate saith unto them, Behold the man! See Him as He really is that we might become a part of that. Live as Jesus lived, walk as Jesus walked, do as Jesus did and walk among men as Jesus did. See Him as a man amongst men. 1. A man of Righteousness 2. A man of the Holy Ghost 3. A man of Humility 4. A man of Power 5. A man of Compassion 6. A man of sorrows 7. A man raised from the dead. 1. Behold Him as the King Song of Solomon 3:11— “Go forth, O ye daughters of Zion, and behold king Solomon” Mat. 21:5—Tell ye the daughter of Sion, Behold, thy King cometh unto thee, meek, and sitting upon an ass, and a colt the foal of an ass. Not only see Him in these experiences but enter into them with Him. 2Cor. 3:18—But we all, with open face beholding as in a glass the glory of the Lord, are changed into the same image from glory to glory, even as by the Spirit of the Lord. Rev. 12:10—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. # The Cross Before The CrownThe Lamb before The KingThe Man before The Bridegroom INTRODUCTION—Christ was crowned for the Cross Adam had the Tree of Life available to him every day, but was more interested in other things. Not everyone is going to want God’s glory and become ONE with His Son, especially through a cross bearing experience, but there is a calling that goes out to all. 1. The Crowning for Christ was determined because of our disobedience. 1. ” with the crown wherewith his mother crowned him” 1. The Source – of the Crowning “wherewith his mother crowned him” Some believe the Jewish Church- some humanity—The whole world crowned Him. 1. The Meaning – The Crown—Jesus was crowned with our sin that He would be our sacrifice and we could be justified The crown that humanity gave Jesus is THE CROWN OF 4inch THORNS Crowning would indicate winner or first – Jesus became all that we were, indicated by a crown – Not of honor – but of Shame He became the head of all sin, first, before us, what we were, The shame of the Cross Gal. 1:4—Who gave himself for our sins, that he might deliver us from this present evil world, according to the will of God and our Father: 1John 2:2—And he is the propitiation for our sins: and not for ours only, but also for the sins of the whole world. 2Cor. 5:21—For he hath made him to be sin for us, who knew no sin; that we might be made the righteousness of God in him. 1John 3:7—Little children, let no man deceive you: he that doeth righteousness is righteous, even as he is righteous. 2Cor. 8:9—For ye know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that, though he was rich, yet for your sakes he became poor, that ye through his poverty might be rich. Heb 2:10—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. Heb 5:8Though he were a Son, yet learned he obedience by the things which he suffered; Php 2:8—And being found in fashion as a man, he humbled himself, and became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross 2. The Crowning for us will be determined through obedience in suffering. 1Peter 5:10—But the God of all grace, who hath called us unto his eternal glory by Christ Jesus, after that ye have suffered a while, make you perfect, stablish, strengthen, settle you. 1Cor. 9:25—And every man that striveth for the mastery is temperate in all things. Now they do it to obtain a corruptible crown; but we an incorruptible. Rom. 8:17— And if children, then heirs; heirs of God, and joint-heirs with Christ; if so be that we suffer with him, that we may be also glorified together. 2Tim2:12—If we suffer, we shall also reign with him: if we deny him, he also will deny us 1. an incorruptible Crown Php 4:1—Therefore, my brethren dearly beloved and longed for, my joy and crown, so stand fast in the Lord, my dearly beloved. 2. A Soul winner’s Crown 1Th 2:19 For what is our hope, or joy, or crown of rejoicing? Are not even ye in the presence of our Lord Jesus Christ at his coming? 3. Crown of Rejoicing 2Ti 4:8 Henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, shall give me at that day: and not to me only, but unto all them also that love his appearing. 4. A Crown of Righteousness Jas 1:12 Blessed is the man that endureth temptation: for when he is tried, he shall receive the crown of life, which the Lord hath promised to them that love him. Re 2:10 Fear none of those things which thou shalt suffer: behold, the devil shall cast some of you into prison, that ye may be tried; and ye shall have tribulation ten days: be thou faithful unto death, and I will give thee a crown of life. 5. The Crown of Life 1Pe 5:4 And when the chief Shepherd shall appear, ye shall receive a crown of glory that fadeth not away. 6. A Crown of Glory Re 3:11 Behold, I come quickly: hold that fast which thou hast, that no man take thy crown. 3. The Calling to the Crown 1. There is Grace with the Calling God’s all Sufficient Grace is for you to make it. “But the God of all grace” 2Cor.12:9—And he said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness. Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me. 1. He knew God called him to preach and even to suffer, but he learned better and more clearly of God’s will through suffering. 2Cor. 4:15—For all things are for your sakes, that the abundant grace might through the thanksgiving of many redound to the glory of God. 2. When you are going through hard times, believe for God’s grace. He has ALL we need. 3. “of many” –Others can benefit from our meekness in suffering. Paul had a thorn in his flesh to keep him humble. We in turn benefit from Paul’s suffering in that we now see an example of God’s grace at work. 2Cor. 8:9—For ye know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that, though he was rich, yet for your sakes he became poor, that ye through his poverty might be rich. 2Cor. 9:8—And God is able to make all grace abound toward you; that ye, always having all sufficiency in all things, may abound to every good work: Romans 16:24—The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you all. Amen. 2Cor.13:14—The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the communion of the Holy Ghost, be with you all. 4. “you all” –God is calling me! 5. Move my faith toward His grace, He will give what I Believe Him for. It will be according to my faith. 6. There is a lot to receive and it is going to take all the grace of God to receive it. Eph 6:24—Grace be with all them that love our Lord Jesus Christ in sincerity. Amen. 7. Be real, honest, consistentGod’s grace is given to those that are! Php 4:23—The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you all. Amen. 2Thes. 3:18—The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you all. Amen. 1. Prevenient Grace 2. Illuminating Grace 3. Saving Grace 4. Justifying Grace 5. Enabling Grace 6. Sustaining Grace 7. Refreshing Grace 8. Comforting Grace 9. Restoring Grace 10. Growing Grace 11. Enduring Grace 12. Sanctifying Grace 13. Living Grace 14. Dying Grace 15. Grace to be Watchful 16. Grace to be Sober Grace to Resist 1. There are Stages in the Calling Infancy Child The Holy Ghost infilling brings you from an infant to a child. This is a greater experience added to salvation. Cadet Solider Child Son A ‘child’ has not yet ‘arrived. Must climb higher and draw closer to Christ’s stature. 1. There is a Climax to the Calling We will not understand this ‘climax’ by just reading our Bible. 1. Christ is the Ideal to Behold. The calling is to HIS glory. Without His example to behold, we would be totall in the dark and blind to what to do and how to do concerning pleasing God. Is there any difference in nature between the Father and the Son? No, not in holiness, righteousness, goodness, etc. (Heb 1:3) 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; 1. Christ is the Example to Follow. Christ’s glory should become our experience. In the Gospels Christ commanded the disciples “follow me” and “know the truth”. (there is a process—made free and not set free.) When the head directs, the body should move! No matter how much false there is, there is still a real: JESUS! (2Co 3:18) But we all, with open face beholding as in a glass the glory of the Lord, are changed into the same image from glory to glory, even as by the Spirit of the Lord. Seek more and more. (Mat 5:48) Be ye therefore perfect, even as your Father which is in heaven is perfect. We have been called FROM the lowest TO the highest. (Eph 4:13) Till we all come in the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God, unto a perfect man, unto the measure of the stature of the fulness of Christ: There is only one Son (Father-Son-Holy Ghost), YET he will bring many “sons” unto glory (Heb. 2:10). He will have a people that will become one with Him. 1. There are Requirements in the Calling. (Matthew 22:14) For many are called, but few are chosen. 1. Obedience is required 1. Answer the call 2. Rely only on His Grace 3. Give Him all the Love, Praise and the Glory. 546. The Course to the Crown 1. The Reality of Suffering & Conflict There will be conflict. 1. Kinds of Conflict 1. INWARD: personal, emotional, intellectual. 2. OUTWARD: family, World, physical 3. SPIRITUAL: devil, Spirit God doesn’t tempt us, but the devil certainly will., The thing Job feared came upon him. Ps. 40:12 ‘innumerable evils have compassed me about’ could not ‘look up.’ That is a horrible pit of depression when you cannot ‘look up.’ 2. There must be conviction to overcome the conflicts. 1. The Reason for Suffering & Conflict The course to the crown is through suffering. God’s purpose is to make you perfect. He allows suffering for a TEST or to PROVE you. 1. Test of Faith 2. Test of Patience 3. Test of Obedience 4. Test of Faithfulness 1. The Results of Suffering & Conflict (1Pe 5:10) But the God of all grace, who hath called us unto his eternal glory by Christ Jesus, after that ye have suffered a while, make you perfect, stablish, strengthen, settle you. The crown is worth any suffering we have to go through. No amount of suffering should hinder us from seeking the crown. CONCLUSION 1. To be one with Him, we must be LIKE Him and unlike Him in only one point = He alone is GOD. 2. You need all of the grace of God working in your life. Song 3:11 Go forth, O ye daughters of Zion, and behold king Solomon with the crown wherewith his mother crowned him in the day of his espousals, and in the day of the gladness of his heart. 5. The Espousals – (Plural) “Many Sons” becoming one with the Son of God 1. him in the day of his espousals, and in the day of the gladness of his heart” 1. The Meaning – (no loose thing) A binding agreement – but Espousal and Marriage are two different things BETROTHAL — An Act of Engagement for marriage and was as binding as marriage but is not the same as marriage. A Mutual promise or contract for a future marriage. Espousal is for right now and marriage is to take place at the Throne. The selection of the bride was followed by the betrothal, not to be entirely equated with the modern concept of engagement. A betrothal was undertaken by a friend or agent representing the bridegroom and by the parents representing the bride. It was confirmed by oaths and was accompanied with presents to the bride and often to the bride’s parents. John 3:29He that hath the bride is the bridegroom: but the friend of the bridegroom, which standeth and heareth him, rejoiceth greatly because of the bridegroom's voice: this my joy therefore is fulfilled. 2Cor. 11:2—For I am jealous over you with godly jealousy: for I have espoused you to one husband, that I may present you as a chaste virgin to Christ. The betrothal was celebrated by a feast. In some instances, it was customary for the bridegroom to place a ring, a token of love and fidelity, on the bride’s finger. In Hebrew custom, betrothal was actually part of the marriage process. A change of intention by one of the partners after he or she was betrothed was a serious matter, subject in some instances to penalty by fine or by death. - Not all believers become the Bride - Only those that are faithful to the Written agreement – THE WORD OF GOD If you break that agreement, the Contract is no good. - Present you as a Chaste Virgin to Christ 1. The Results 1. United with Bridegroom – 2. The Bridegroom made Happy The most important instance of betrothal in the Bible between man and woman is the one between Joseph and Mary Mat. 1:18 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. 19 Then Joseph her husband, being a just man, and not willing to make her a publick example, was minded to put her away privily. A Jewish betrothal could be dissolved only by the man giving the woman a certificate of divorce. A betrothal usually lasted for one year. During that year the couple was known as husband and wife. Betrothal was much more closely linked with marriage than our modern engagement. But the actual marriage took place only when the bridegroom took the bride to his home and the marriage was consummated. Deut. 20:7And what man is there that hath betrothed a wife, and hath not taken her? let him go and return unto his house, lest he die in the battle, and another man take her. 2Sam. 3:14And David sent messengers to Ishbosheth Saul's son, saying, Deliver me my wife Michal, which I espoused to me for an hundred foreskins of the Philistines. Jer 2:2—Go and cry in the ears of Jerusalem, saying, Thus saith the LORD; I remember thee, the kindness of thy youth, the love of thine espousals, when thou wentest after me in the wilderness, in a land that was not sown. Mat. 1:18Now 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. Luke 1:27To a virgin espoused to a man whose name was Joseph, of the house of David; and the virgin's name was Mary. Luke 2:5To be taxed with Mary his espoused wife, being great with child. 2Cor. 11:2For I am jealous over you with godly jealousy: for I have espoused you to one husband, that I may present you as a chaste virgin to Christ. 1Co 1:9—God is faithful, by whom ye were called unto the fellowship of his Son Jesus Christ our Lord Eph 3:9—And to make all men see what is the fellowship of the mystery, which from the beginning of the world hath been hid in God, who created all things by Jesus Christ: 1John 1:3—That which we have seen and heard declare we unto you, that ye also may have fellowship with us: and truly our fellowship is with the Father, and with his Son Jesus Christ. John 17:21That they all may be one; as thou, Father, art in me, and I in thee, that they also may be one in us: that the world may believe that thou hast sent me. Isaiah 53:11—He shall see of the travail of his soul, and shall be satisfied: by his knowledge shall my righteous servant justify many; for he shall bear their iniquities. Hebrews 12:2—Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith; who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God. 1. The Bride also will be made Happy Song 3:11 Go forth, O ye daughters of Zion, and behold king Solomon with the crown wherewith his mother crowned him in the day of his espousals, and in the day of the gladness of his heart. 1. There will be Perfect obedience 2. There will be Perfect Submission 3. There will be Perfect Fellowship John17:11 And now I am no more in the world, but these are in the world, and I come to thee. Holy Father, keep through thine own name those whom thou hast given me, that they may be one, as we are. John 17:22 And the glory which thou gavest me I have given them; that they may be one, even as we are one: John 16:24 Hitherto have ye asked nothing in my name: ask, and ye shall receive, that your joy may be full. 1John 1:4 And these things write we unto you, that your joy may be full. 2John 1:12 Having many things to write unto you, I would not write with paper and ink: but I trust to come unto you, and speak face to face, that our joy may be full. Rev. 3:21 To him that overcometh will I grant to sit with me in my throne, even as I also overcame, and am set down with my Father in his throne. Psalm 4:6 There be many that say, Who will shew us any good? LORD, lift thou up the light of thy countenance upon us. 7 Thou hast put gladness in my heart, more than in the time that their corn and their wine increased. 16:11 Thou wilt shew me the path of life: in thy presence is fulness of joy; at thy right hand there are pleasures for evermore. 17:15 As for me, I will behold thy face in righteousness: I shall be satisfied, when I awake, with thy likeness. 1Peter 1:8 Whom having not seen, ye love; in whom, though now ye see him not, yet believing, ye rejoice with joy unspeakable and full of glory: Rev.19:7 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. 8 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. He is in the process of creating in us all that we should be, Our growth in God is dependent on our Revelation of Him. If we are going to see Him in all that He is, we will have to see Him for our self. # SOS 4:3-7 The Bride's Perfection Preached by James R. Reynolds, Sr. on May 31, 1979 and June 6, 1979. > Song of Solomon 4:3-5 — Thy lips are like a thread of scarlet, and thy speech is comely: thy temples are like a piece of a pomegranate within thy locks. 4 Thy neck is like the tower of David builded for an armoury, whereon there hang a thousand bucklers, all shields of mighty men. 5 Thy two breasts are like two young roes that are twins, which feed among the lilies. - Part 1: ## Introduction Here we see the Bridegroom expressing not empty words when He says she is "fair". ## I. The Acclamation of the Bridegroom This was not opinion of herself, but was said of her by the Lord. ## II. The Distinctive Characteristics of her Perfection ### A. Her Vision — Eyes ### B. Her Hair ### C. Her Teeth ### D. Her Lips - Part 2: # SOS 4:9 The Bridegroom's Snare Preached by James R. Reynolds, Sr. September 12, 1979. > Song of Solomon 4:9— Thou hast ravished my heart, my sister, my spouse; thou hast ravished my heart with one of thine eyes, with one chain of thy neck ## INTRODUCTION 5. Review - The Mountain experience is first described in verse 8. Song of Solomon 4:8—Come with me from Lebanon, my spouse, with me from Lebanon: look from the top of Amana, from the top of Shenir and Hermon, from the lions' dens, from the mountains of the leopards. - A call we see announced in verse 8 (‘come with me’) is from Christ to His Bride. Some bring the Song of Solomon down to a carnal level, but it is truly a description of the close relationship of Christ and His bride. 2. “The Bridegroom’s Snare” We often think of our love for Christ, but He has a great interest in us. Evangelist and songwriter Philip Bliss 1838-1876) wrote “Jesus Loves Even Me” after being inspired by the Frederick Whitfield’s hymn “Oh, How I Love Jesus. Philip Bliss wrote his hymn with the following sentiment in mind: "I have sung long enough of my poor love to Christ and now I will sing of his love for me." CHORUS: I am so glad that Jesus loves me, Jesus loves me, Jesus loves me; I am so glad that Jesus loves me, Jesus loves even me. He has been caught or ensared by her. She hasn’t set a trap for Him, but she is captor to His heart and He loves her. It was His love that caused us to love Him! We were his enemies and he loved us. Song of Solomon 4:9—Thou hast ravished my heart, my sister, my spouse; thou hast ravished my heart with one of thine eyes, with one chain of thy neck. - This is the Bridegroom speaking directly to the Bride. - “thou hast ravished my heart” in the Hebrew means to be enclosed. ## Ensnared by the Bride’s Love Thou hast ravished my heart, my sister, my spouse… ### She has caught Him with love. What does it mean to love Jesus? 1. Seen in the Bride’s Dedication ### John 14:15—If ye love me, keep my commandments. We say, “I really love the Lord”, but the real measure of our love is if we do what He says. There is a demand on the Believer to DO something! She not only told Him that she loved Him, but He is ensnared by her dedication. Through the tests, hard times and trials she has SHOWED Him that she loves Him. “Words are cheap” but actions are priceless. She has been following him closely. Close enough to hear Him. Is the Church listening? You have to be closer than what the church is to hear Him. A young couple may get married and make vows to each other “for better or for worse” and miss the element of love. Here they are totally committed verbally, but when they get out in everyday life complaints come out “I didn’t know this was part of the bargain.” There certainly couldn’t have been too much real love in the verbal sentiment. They say that “Home is where the heart is.” Heaven is our home and should be where our heart is! Christ is the goal and we need to keep this always in mind. He is so taken up with the fact that she is so taken up with Him! God does find greater pleasure in those that love Him. His heart is ravished because of dedicaton. Song of Solomon 4:9—Thou hast ravished my heart, my sister,… FAMILY relationship my spouse MARRIAGE relationship Not before, but from chapter 3 and verse 11 through to the end of the book she is titled in reference to the marriage contract. She has been brought into a relationship that not many know anything about. He loves the World! John 3:16—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. But He is especially taken up with her because of her love for Him and He enters into an intimate relationship with her as husband and wife. The husband and wife relationship is exclusive and close. He is ravished, enthralled, taken up with the love of the Bride—not the Church. ILLUSTRATION: A 50+ year old couple was in love like newlyweds. When they rode in the car they didn’t sit on opposite sides of the car but both squeezed in one side. He would leave her to go to work and call her when he got there and call her several times every day. He would come home, pick her up and they would get the groceries together. The relationship they shared was close and intimate and this is the kind of love between Christ and His Bride. He is ravished (ensnared, caught) by her love! This Bride relationship is not shared by Church because the Church has too many other interests. To the Bride, He is number one. He is it! There is no outside interest. And She has ensnared Him by her love just as he ensnared her by His love. 2. Seen in the Bride’s Separation This relationship is a two-way street. Jesus is not interested in just pouring it on over and over with no return. He is looking for something. It is not difficult to give back if you get plenty to begin with. The problem is we have so much of the world and so little of him that we are dried up and we wonder why we can’t love him. The only way we can love Him is if we let Him love us! Soak it in and then you have something to give Him in return. She was totally separated to Him. There has been a transformation in her since she started out running after Him. She described herself in the beginning as black as the tents of Kedar and smelling like a goat. But now she is smelling like a lily and the rose of Sharon. How do you lose the goat smell? Hang around the goat pen? No! Get out amongst the lilies and the roses. Lay in his presence. 2 Corinthians 6:17,18—Wherefore come out from among them, and be ye separate, saith the Lord, and touch not the unclean thing; and I will receive you, 18 And will be a Father unto you, and ye shall be my sons and daughters, saith the Lord Almighty. He has been looking for one that smells like the lilies like Him. ILLUSTRATION: Go visit a group of guys working hard, sweating and getting dirty. Then come up beside them and you might say, “Whew! What a smell!” But if you had been working with them all along, you probably wouldn’t notice not only that they stink but you stink yourself! Why? Association. We won’t smell too bad if we get close to Him. But when we get away from Him we will start to smell. If we come into the house of God and wonder why God isn’t blessing, or speaking, maybe it is because we smell too much like the world. She has separated herself from everyone except Him and to Him she smells good. She is beautiful and she has ravished His heart through her dedication, separation and determination. 3. Seen in the Bride’s Determination By her going on, going through, hanging on and enduring through the hard times, she has captured his heart. “I am determined I’ve made up my mind!” She has not followed after Him to simply turn and go back, but she is determined to go all the way. ## II. Ensnared by the Bride’s Eyes …with one of thine eyes, … He is not satisfied with “one eye” but her “singleness of eye.” Matthew 6:22—The light of the body is the eye: if therefore thine eye be single, thy whole body shall be full of light. He has caught her eye and she cannot see anything else. Some warn not become too fanatical about Christ, but there is a difference between being a fanatic and a “fan-at-it”. The church is cross-eyed from looking in two directions at once. How do we get this singleness of vision where we see Him and only Him? 1. Seen in the Bride’s Prayer ILLUSTRATION: If you watch a bird photographer at work, you will see their thoroughness and patience. They work hard to get everything right from the subject to the focus, and angle and lighting. They don’t just pull a camera out, snap a button, call it good and feel they have captured the scene faithfully. We kneel down and before a moment passes we are up and on our way. How can we have vision that is full of Him when we don’t pray like that photographer tries to capture his subject? 2. Seen in the Bride’s Praise Praise is not something we do wildly or simply loudly but praise springs out of the heart. Genuine praise is not necessarily loud for even a sincere whisper of anointed praise can bring down the glories of Heaven. It is not the volume, it is the content. Whether loud or soft, it must be sincerely from the heart. Too often, we pray and praise to be seen of men, but we need a single eye in our prayer and praise—for Him! 3. Seen in the Bride’s Meditation Psalm 1:1,2—Blessed is the man that walketh not in the counsel of the ungodly, nor standeth in the way of sinners, nor sitteth in the seat of the scornful. 2 But his delight is in the law of the LORD; and in his law doth he meditate day and night. The Gospel is the best: - Sleeping Pill - Waking Pill - Medicine Pill Encouragement Pill When we pray, praise, and meditate on the Word of God we benefit ourselves, but also He is looking down and watching. ## III. Ensnared by the Bride’s Ornament with one chain of thy neck. (“…just one chain…”) I Peter 3:1-3—Likewise, ye wives, be in subjection to your own husbands; that, if any obey not the word, they also may without the word be won by the conversation of the wives; 2 While they behold your chaste conversation coupled with fear. 3 Whose adorning let it not be that outward adorning of plaiting the hair, and of wearing of gold, or of putting on of apparel;4 But let it be the hidden man of the heart, in that which is not corruptible, even the ornament of a meek and quiet spirit, which is in the sight of God of great price. The ornament of chain around her neck is not something outward, but inward. Even the ornament of a meek and quiet spirit, which is in the sight of God of great price. She is contented as a cow is chewing in her cud. As a matter of fact “meditation” in the Hebrew means the same as a cow chewing her cud. Discontent people are not meditating on the word properly for the Bible is full of answers. Ga 5:22,23—But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, 23 Meekness, temperance: against such there is no law. He wants to see ALL His graces in us, but to see just one of God’s graces alone demonstrated in our lives pleases Him. Has there been even one? Has He placed any chains about your neck? - Love - Joy - Peace - Longsuffering - Gentleness - Goodness - Faith/Obedience - Meekness - Temperance ## CONCLUSION - Perhaps the Greatest of God’s Graces to Work in our Lives is Faith. - Faith Works by Love. - If we Love Him we will Obey Him. - He is totally ravished by her. # SOS 5:2 The Sleeping Bride Preached by James R. Reynolds, Sr. on November 21, 1979 and November 28, 1979. > Song of Solomon 5:2-5 — Song 5:2 ¶ I sleep, but my heart waketh: it is the voice of my beloved that knocketh, saying, Open to me, my sister, my love, my dove, my undefiled: for my head is filled with dew, and my locks with the drops of the night. 3 I have put off my coat; how shall I put it on? I have washed my feet; how shall I defile them? 4 My beloved put in his hand by the hole of the door, and my bowels were moved for him. 5 I rose up to open to my beloved; and my hands dropped with myrrh, and my fingers with sweet smelling myrrh, upon the handles of the lock. - Part 1 ## Introduction ## I. The Bride's Attitude ### A. Improper Attitute ### B. Indifferent Attitude There is an enemy without. Beiing encompassed by an enemy, she has let her guard down. ### C. Insufficient Attitude 1. Half Hearted 2. Compromising 3. Apathy/Unconcern ## The Bridegroom's Grace - Part 2 ### A. Revealed in His Knocking 1. To Awaken Her 2. To Arouse Her 3. To Gain Her Fellowship ### B. Revealed in His Statements 1. Relative 2. Lover 3. Devotee 4. Chaste Virgin ### C. Revealed in HIs Patience 1. Waiting 2. Suffferings# SOS 5:2-6 The Awakened Bride Preached by James R. Reynolds, Sr. on December 5, 1979. > Song of Solomon 5:2-6 — I sleep, but my heart waketh: it is the voice of my beloved that knocketh, saying, Open to me, my sister, my love, my dove, my undefiled: for my head is filled with dew, and my locks with the drops of the night. 3 I have put off my coat; how shall I put it on? I have washed my feet; how shall I defile them? 4 My beloved put in his hand by the hole of the door, and my bowels were moved for him. 5 I rose up to open to my beloved; and my hands dropped with myrrh, and my fingers with sweet smelling myrrh, upon the handles of the lock. 6 I opened to my beloved; but my beloved had withdrawn himself, and was gone: my soul failed when he spake: I sought him, but I could not find him; I called him, but he gave me no answer. ## Introduction How is she asleep? ## I. The Means of Awakening of the Bride ### A. His Voice > it is the voice of my beloved that knocketh #### 1. His Word We open the door by obeying the truth that He is now revealing: Romans 1:5,17; 5:19; 6:16,19; 16:26; 1Pe 1:22 > 1Pe 1:2 Elect according to the foreknowledge of God the Father, through sanctification of the Spirit, unto obedience and sprinkling of the blood of Jesus Christ: Grace unto you, and peace, be multiplied. #### 2. His Love #### 3. His Gentle Reproof #### 4. His Blessings ### B. His Hand #### 1. Chastisement #### 2. Unnecessarily Chastened? ## II. The Action of the Awakened Bride ### A. She Rose Up ### B. She Regained an Anointing# SOS 5:6-8 The Seeking Bride Preached by James R. Reynolds, Sr. on December 12, 1979. > Song of Solomon 5:6-8 — I opened to my beloved; but my beloved had withdrawn himself, and was gone: my soul failed when he spake: I sought him, but I could not find him; I called him, but he gave me no answer. 7 The watchmen that went about the city found me, they smote me, they wounded me; the keepers of the walls took away my veil from me. 8 I charge you, O daughters of Jerusalem, if ye find my beloved, that ye tell him, that I am sick of love. She desires to find Him now after she has been awful neglectful. There are some things that we must be careful not to involve ourselves with. In seeking the Lord there are some dangers we must be aware of that we might avoid them. 1. Dangers the Bride must avoid Don’t neglect the fact that God wants to do more (for you, in you and through you) and you end up sleeping again. The Bride has been awakened and aroused she wants to do something about her condition. “I opened to my beloved” --- We open the door by obeying the truth “I opened to my beloved; but my beloved had withdrawn himself, and was gone” There is a time when God speaks to us and we don’t respond it will be very costly to gain back that position that we had with Him. Pr 1:24 Because I have called, and ye refused; I have stretched out my hand, and no man regarded; Pr 1:26 I also will laugh at your calamity; I will mock when your fear cometh; By her own neglect she has brought herself to this condition. She now realizes that she has been neglectful too long, you can put Him off too long. While she slept He knocked, while she rested He called, He spoke to her and she did not listen, While He called She refused to respond, She didn’t do anything to respond to His calling and knocking. When she finally awoke He had withdrawn Himself, He had waited a long time but she was too late. We must sense and realize that He will not always be there, calling and beckoning us to come. There comes a time when He withdraws Himself. If we wait too long He will not be there. Song 5:2 ¶ I sleep, but my heart waketh: 6 I opened to my beloved; but my beloved had withdrawn himself, and was gone: my soul failed when he spake: I sought him, but I could not find him; I called him, but he gave me no answer. People are waiting for Jesus to make the move, He has and He is outside your door, you must open the door and let Him in. He will not just walk right in or force Himself on you. 1. I opened to my beloved; but my beloved had withdrawn himself, and was gone” 1. Indifference and love of ease 1. Indifference to spiritual things 1. We take for granted that He will always be there. 2. He has only promised to be there if we obey Him. Take the way of ease—take it easy—Loving to be at ease. We must not be so concerned about the physical and material world but so indifferent when it comes to the spiritual things. 1. Prone to take the easy way Take the way of least resistance, that’s the way to go, go with the flow, don’t try hard, no fight, form bad habits that are hard to break. Ge 15:11 And when the fowls came down upon the carcases, Abram drove them away. 1. Resting on experiences and privileges attained and you stop leaning on the Lord for more. A lady running a rooming house had taken in a well-dressed man for a week and he kept meeting her in the hallway and told her that he had a message for her when she had time and she would always say I can’t right now I am too busy. Again and again through the week he said I have a message for you and she would again say I just can’t right now I am too busy. Two ladies on the way to church stopped and picked up a well -dressed and he said to them as they were riding, Do you know that Jesus is coming soon? They said that they were Christians and they believed that Jesus was coming soon. In a minute He said ladies do you know that Jesus is coming real soon? They responded and said yes we really believe that Jesus is coming soon. And again He said do you know Jesus is Coming soon? They went to look in the back seat to respond to him and He was gone. As they testified what had happened to them the lady running the rooming house said that a well-dressed man had checked in for a week and never even used the towels, the bed had not been messed up and many times through the week he tried to stop her and say I have a message for you when you have time but she said that she told him, I was just too busy. She put Him off one too many times. She has gone back and rested on past experiences and decided that she will rest this dark night. 1. There must be progression in the Promises “NO PARKING” Don’t park yourself here, don’t live in the past, or in the Dark. Where are you today? Never mind what God did for you last week, see what He will do for you today. Heb 6:1 Therefore leaving the principles of the doctrine of Christ, let us go on unto perfection; not laying again the foundation of repentance from dead works, and of faith toward God, 1. The Promises need to be possessed 1Pe 1:3 Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, which according to his abundant mercy hath begotten us again unto a lively hope by the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, 4 To an inheritance incorruptible, and undefiled, and that fadeth not away, reserved in heaven for you, 5 Who are kept by the power of God through faith unto salvation ready to be revealed in the last time. 2Pe 1:4 Whereby are given unto us exceeding great and precious promises: that by these ye might be partakers of the divine nature, having escaped the corruption that is in the world through lust. 1. The Promises need to be proclaimed John 1:14 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. Ac 14:3 Long time therefore abode they speaking boldly in the Lord, which gave testimony unto the word of his grace, and granted signs and wonders to be done by their hands. Ac 20:32 And now, brethren, I commend you to God, and to the word of his grace, which is able to build you up, and to give you an inheritance among all them which are sanctified. Heb 2:3 How shall we escape, if we neglect so great salvation; which at the first began to be spoken by the Lord, and was confirmed unto us by them that heard him; 4 God also bearing them witness, both with signs and wonders, and with divers miracles, and gifts of the Holy Ghost, according to his own will? 2Pe 3:4 And saying, Where is the promise of his coming? for since the fathers fell asleep, all things continue as they were from the beginning of the creation. Ro 10:8 But what saith it? The word is nigh thee, even in thy mouth, and in thy heart: that is, the word of faith, which we preach; Col 1:25 Whereof I am made a minister, according to the dispensation of God which is given to me for you, to fulfil the word of God; 2Ti 4:2 Preach the word; be instant in season, out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort with all longsuffering and doctrine. 1. Procrastination and indolence. 1. Tomorrow I will start 2. Today I will rest Tomorrow will never come; Today is tomorrows yesterday Avoid these dangers!!! 2Co 6:2 (For he saith, I have heard thee in a time accepted, and in the day of salvation have I succoured thee: behold, now is the accepted time; behold, now is the day of salvation.) Heb 3:13 But exhort one another daily, while it is called To day; lest any of you be hardened through the deceitfulness of sin. 15 While it is said, To day if ye will hear his voice, harden not your hearts, as in the provocation. 1Ti 1:19 Holding faith, and a good conscience; which some having put away concerning faith have made shipwreck: 2. Repentance an Absolute to the Bride. We must walk with God daily. REPENT from not walking with Him. 1. The Meaning of Repentance 1. Repentance is more than tears 2. Repentance is an about face. 3. Repentance is turning away from sin. 1. The Need of Repentance. She went to sleep because something came between her and the Lord. Re 2:5 Remember therefore from whence thou art fallen, and repent, and do the first works; or else I will come unto thee quickly, and will remove thy candlestick out of his place, except thou repent. Re 3:19 As many as I love, I rebuke and chasten: be zealous therefore, and repent. 1. Repentance removes the hindrance 2. Repentance restores the blessing 3. Repentance reinstates our position. REPENTANCE IS NEEDED You never stay stopped very long; through Repentance we come to Jesus, you’re either going on in God or going backward. 1. The Scope of Repentance 1. Sins of Commission 2. Sins of Omission Song 5:2 ¶ I sleep, but my heart waketh: it is the voice of my beloved that knocketh, saying, Open to me, my sister, my love, my dove, my undefiled: for my head is filled with dew, and my locks with the drops of the night. Re 3:20 Behold, I stand at the door, and knock: if any man hear my voice, and open the door, I will come in to him, and will sup with him, and he with me. Song 5:3 I have put off my coat; how shall I put it on? I have washed my feet; how shall I defile them? She has not been responding to His call; she has been rebelling, so she was sinning. She failed Him with the sin of omission, most don’t know how much they sin let alone, how to repent. 1Sa 15:23 For rebellion is as the sin of witchcraft, and stubbornness is as iniquity and idolatry. Because thou hast rejected the word of the LORD, he hath also rejected thee from being king. Neglect is like (rebellion) neglecting the word is rebellion (made preparation to go to sleep not work) Refusal – (stubbornness) rejecting the word is disobedience (she kept Him waiting outside a long time) 3. Reasons why she did not find Him. 1. She sought Him too late, not when He was calling 1. He had knocked 2. He had called 3. He had stretched out His hand Only after a long time did she respond, but too late to find Him there, she must now search for Him. The Bride is to seek Him until she finds Him. 1. She sought Him in the wrong places. 1. In the streets (in the world) 1. You won’t find the Lord amongst the world. 2. Amongst the watchmen. (church) You won’t always find God in the church today (worldly Church) compromisers Mt 28:10 Then said Jesus unto them, Be not afraid: go tell my brethren that they go into Galilee, and there shall they see me. You will find Jesus right where He said you would find Him. Mat. 11:29 Lu 24:5 And as they were afraid, and bowed down their faces to the earth, they said unto them, Why seek ye the living among the dead? Song 5:8 O… if ye find my beloved, that ye tell him, that I am sick of love. 1. She sought Him in ignorance 1. She sought Him her own way. 1. She sought Him her way diligently 2. She did not know where He was. 1. She did not know where to find Him. 2. She could not find Him seeking Him her way 3. The ones she asked did not know where to find Him. 1. They couldn’t find Him their way. 80. She finds Him by understanding the Word and Inspiration of the Spirit. Mt 11:29 Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls. John 8:32 And ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free. 18:37 Pilate therefore said unto him, Art thou a king then? Jesus answered, Thou sayest that I am a king. To this end was I born, and for this cause came I into the world, that I should bear witness unto the truth. Every one that is of the truth heareth my voice. 38 Pilate saith unto him, What is truth? And when he had said this, he went out again unto the Jews, and saith unto them, I find in him no fault at all. John 10: 4 And when he putteth forth his own sheep, he goeth before them, and the sheep follow him: for they know his voice. 14 I am the good shepherd, and know my sheep, and am known of mine. 27 My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me: 15:26 ¶ But when the Comforter is come, whom I will send unto you from the Father, even the Spirit of truth, which proceedeth from the Father, he shall testify of me: 16:13 Howbeit when he, the Spirit of truth, is come, he will guide you into all truth: for he shall not speak of himself; but whatsoever he shall hear, that shall he speak: and he will shew you things to come. 1Co 2:9 But as it is written…10 But God hath revealed them unto us by his Spirit: for the Spirit searcheth all things, yea, the deep things of God. Ac 6:4 But we will give ourselves continually to prayer, and to the ministry of the word. # SOS 5:9-10 The Preeminence of Christ Preached by James R. Reynolds, Sr. on December 12, 1979. > Song of Solomon 5:9-10 — I opened to my beloved; but my beloved had withdrawn himself, and was gone: my soul failed when he spake: I sought him, but I could not find him; I called him, but he gave me no answer. 7 The watchmen that went about the city found me, they smote me, they wounded me; the keepers of the walls took away my veil from me. 8 I charge you, O daughters of Jerusalem, if ye find my beloved, that ye tell him, that I am sick of love. The Preeminent Christ ## Part 1 What is his distinguishing marks? - He is MY Beloved ## Part 2 ## Part 3 ## Part 4 # SOS 6:10 The Mysteries Involving the Bride > Song of Solomon 6:10 — Who is she that looketh forth as the morning, fair as the moon, clear as the sun, and terrible as an army with banners? ## Mystery of Her Person - Who is she? - unrecognized - unaffiliated (she is not one if their number) ## The Mystery of Her Nature# SOS 8:1 The Bride's Deepest Desire Preached by James R. Reynolds, Sr. on January 21, 1981. > Song of Solomon 8:1—O that thou wert as my brother, that sucked the breasts of my mother! when I should find thee without, I would kiss thee; yea, I should not be despised. ## Introduction There is a progression in the life of the Bride; here she shows that she has a great interest in the Spiritual Bridegroom. We now hear that she has reached the climax of her desire. (longing, hunger, thirst, yearning, craving, and a deep desire. We know for many people, religion is a form and Christianity is just a name. Many Christians have a different attitude toward the Word, Toward the Church, Toward Christ and toward others. The little Bride is not attached to anything physical, natural or material. She is not attached to form, rituals, a building, just shepherds, sheep and herds only. Song 8:1—“O that thou wert as my brother, that sucked the breasts of my mother! when I should find thee without” She wants to know Him in a close relationship “as my brother” like her brother that has grown up from many experiences, but a more intimate relationship, closer than a brother Song 4:9,10,12; 5:1-2 “my sister” Song 8:1—O that thou wert as my brother, that sucked the breasts of my mother! when I should find thee without, I would kiss thee; yea, I should not be despised. ## I. To Know Him Better She doesn’t want just what He can give her but she wants Him. 1. A More Intimate Relationship 2. Closer than a brother or sister relationship. 3. The Strongest desire, Craving, longing for a greater relationship. “Close to Thee, Close to Thee all along life’s pilgrim journey Saviour let me walk with You.” The little Bride recognized a close family relationship. “As My Brother She wanted to find that realm where nothing will break, damage, hurt, separate nor destroy that relationship. She knows Him in certain aspects but not like she wants to Song 8:1—O that thou wert as my brother, that sucked the breasts of my mother! when I should find thee To know Him it must come by revelation. ## II. To Make Him Known. 1. She lets him know that she loves Him. 1. “I would kiss thee” 1. This an expression of an inward desire to be with Him 2. She is totally taken up with Him. 3. Whenever and wherever He reveals Himself to her she wants to embrace Him and the truth. when I should find thee 1. She lets the Church know that she loves Him. 1. “I should not be despised” 2. She lets the world know that she loves Him. 1. “Without” (in the open streets) 1. In the streets without suspicion. 2. Without offence. 3. In the tenderest loving way. when I should find thee without, I would kiss thee; yea, I should not be despised.” ## III. To make known her position 1. The meaning of despised 1. disrespect:--contemn; Put down, mocked 2. The attitude of some (I might be despised) 3. The attitude of the Bride --- Invincible Desire 1. “I should (I will \[not\]-I shall)not be despised” To function within the Body as the True Church should unto the total death of self. # SOS 8:2 The Bride's Desires Preached by James R. Reynolds, Sr. on \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_. > Song of Solomon 8:2 — I would lead thee, and bring thee into my mother's house, who would instruct me: I would cause thee to drink of spiced wine of the juice of my pomegranate.
# [](#bkmrk-the-bride%E2%80%99s-desires)The Bride’s Desires > Song of Solomon 8:2 — I would lead thee, and bring thee into my mother’s house, who would instruct me: I would cause thee to drink of spiced wine of the juice of my pomegranate. ## [](#bkmrk-i.-the-desire-to-hel)I. The Desire to Help Others > I would lead thee, and bring thee into my mother’s house … ### [](#bkmrk-a.-she-sees-the-need)A. She Sees the Need She sees the shallowness and lukewarmness of the church. > Revelation 3:16 — So then because thou art lukewarm, and neither cold nor hot, I will spue thee out of my mouth. What is lukewarmness? - Revelation 3:15, The Lord wishes we were cold or hot. - Complacent, comfortable with the spiritual climate, v. 17 “Have need of nothing” - While the truth is there is MUCH NEEDED: wretched, miserable, poor, blind, and naked: – REPENT - that halts between two opinions, - I will\] Rather, I shall soon, or, I am likely to …: the word used does not necessarily imply that the intention is final – vomit ### [](#bkmrk-b.-she-wants-to-help)B. She Wants to Help Not condemn, but she wants others to taste of the joys that are hers. ================== ## [](#bkmrk-ii.-the-desire-to-be)II. The Desire to be Instructed > … who would instruct me - Only Jesus can instruct and guide us. - To be instructed by Him we need to walk with Him. We know “WHO” would instruct (JESUS), so we can ask further “HOW” would he instruct me? 1. By Precept - the Word, the Law 2. By Revelation - by the Spirit Some think they can neverr know God’s voice. Others think that every thought and imagination that comes is God. It is odd that these always get leadings and messages for others. (A mother dreams that you would marry her daughter.) 1. By Example - He teaches us by His own example ================== ## [](#bkmrk-iii.-the-desire-to-b)III. The Desire to be Wedded > … I would cause thee to drink of spiced wine … > > Matthew 26:29 — But I say unto you, I will not drink henceforth of this fruit of the vine, until that day when I drink it new with you in my Father’s kingdom. two cups: ### [](#bkmrk-1.-the-cup-of-calvar)1. The Cup of Calvar - Salvation ### [](#bkmrk-2.-the-cup-of-union-)2. The Cup of Union - Marriage ================== ## [](#bkmrk-iv.-the-desire-to-pl)IV. The Desire to Please Him > … of the juice of my pomegranate. ### [](#bkmrk-1.-her-humility---%E2%80%9Cp)1. Her Humility - “pomegranate” ### [](#bkmrk-2.-the-process-of-hu)2. The Process of Humility Notice the word “juice”. It comes from a root meaning “to trample, squeeze, bruise.” This describes the process of extracting the juice. ### [](#bkmrk-3.-the-fruit-of-humi)3. The Fruit of Humility - There is Natural Pride - There is Wordly Pride - There is Spiritual Pride Pride is like the fiber and pulp. All the fiber and hard particles must be pressed out. No false, fleshly humility or Pride. Just the humility of the Spirit. the Fruit of Humility.
# SOS 8:3,4 The Bride's Continual Need Preached by James R. Reynolds, Sr. on February 11, 1981. > Song of Solomon 8:3,4 — His left hand should be under my head, and his right hand should embrace me. 4 I charge you, O daughters of Jerusalem, that ye stir not up, nor awake my love, until he please. \[13:40\] ## Introduction ## I. The Need for Divine Aid# Media Links ## Audio Recordings: [https://archive.org/details/song-of-solomon-study](https://archive.org/details/song-of-solomon-study) - SOS 1:1 [19781011](https://archive.org/details/song-of-solomon-study/19781011.mp3) - SOS 1:1-2 [19781018](https://archive.org/details/song-of-solomon-study/19781018.mp3) - SOS 1:3 [19781025](https://archive.org/details/song-of-solomon-study/19781025.mp3) - [19781101](https://archive.org/details/song-of-solomon-study/19781101.mp3) - [19781108](https://archive.org/details/song-of-solomon-study/19781108.mp3) - [19781115](https://archive.org/details/song-of-solomon-study/19781115.mp3) - SOS 1:8 [19781122](https://archive.org/details/song-of-solomon-study/19781122.mp3) The Bridegroom's Response - SOS 1:9,11 \[MISSING RECORDING\] Characteristics, Beauty And Crowning Of The Bride - SOS 1:12 [19781206](https://archive.org/details/song-of-solomon-study/19781206.mp3) The King's Table And His Influence - SOS 1:13,14 [19781213](https://archive.org/details/song-of-solomon-study/19781213.mp3) The Fragrance & Beauty Of The Bridegroom - SOS 1:15 [19781220](https://archive.org/details/song-of-solomon-study/19781220.mp3) The Bridegroom's Description Of The Bride - SOS 1:16,17 [19781227](https://archive.org/details/song-of-solomon-study/19781227.mp3?start=0)The Bridegroom's Bed And House - SOS 2:1 [19781227](https://archive.org/details/song-of-solomon-study/19781227.mp3?start=297)The Preeminence Of The Bridegroom - SOS 2:2 [19790103](https://archive.org/details/song-of-solomon-study/19790103.mp3) The Perfection Of The Bride - SOS 2:3 [19790110](https://archive.org/details/song-of-solomon-study/19790110.mp3) The Blessedness Of The Bridegroom - SOS 2:4-6 [19790124](https://archive.org/details/song-of-solomon-study/19790124.mp3) The Banqueting House - SOS 2:7 [19790131](https://archive.org/details/song-of-solomon-study/19790131.mp3) The Bride's Charge - SOS 2:8 [19790207](https://archive.org/details/song-of-solomon-study/19790207.mp3) The Approach Of The Bridegroom - SOS 2:9 [19790214](https://archive.org/details/song-of-solomon-study/19790214.mp3) Revelations Of The Bridegroom - SOS 2:10-13 [19790221](https://archive.org/details/song-of-solomon-study/19790221.mp3) A Message From The Bridegroom To The Bride - SOS 2:14 [19790314](https://archive.org/details/song-of-solomon-study/19790314.mp3) Panorama of the Bride - SOS 2:15 [19790321](https://archive.org/details/song-of-solomon-study/19790321.mp3) Keeping the Vineyard - SOS 2:16 [19790328](https://archive.org/details/song-of-solomon-study/19790328.mp3) The Bride's Developing Insight - SOS 2:17 [19790404](https://archive.org/details/song-of-solomon-study/19790404.mp3) The Bride's Enlarged Vision - SOS 3:1,2 [19790411](https://archive.org/details/song-of-solomon-study/19790411.mp3) Seeking the Bridegroom - SOS 3:3,4 [19790425](https://archive.org/details/song-of-solomon-study/19790425.mp3) The Bride's Preeminent Task - SOS 3:6 [19790502](https://archive.org/details/song-of-solomon-study/19790502.mp3) The Bridegroom Reflected - SOS 3:7,8 [19790509](https://archive.org/details/song-of-solomon-study/19790509.mp3) The Bridegroom's Bed - SOS 3:9,10 [19790516](https://archive.org/details/song-of-solomon-study/19790516.mp3) Solomon's Chariot - SOS 3:11 [19790523](https://archive.org/details/song-of-solomon-study/19790523.mp3) Seeing the Bridegroom in a New Dimension - SOS 4:1-8 [19790531](https://archive.org/details/song-of-solomon-study/19790531.mp3) The Bride's Perfection, Part 1 - SOS 4:1-8 [19790606](https://archive.org/details/song-of-solomon-study/19790606.mp3) The Bride's Perfection, Part 2 - SOS 4:9,10 [19790912](https://archive.org/details/song-of-solomon-study/19790912.mp3) - SOS 4:11 [19790919](https://archive.org/details/song-of-solomon-study/19790919.mp3) - SOS 4:12 [19791003](https://archive.org/details/song-of-solomon-study/19791003.mp3) - [19791010](https://archive.org/details/song-of-solomon-study/19791010.mp3) - [19791017](https://archive.org/details/song-of-solomon-study/19791017.mp3) - [19791031](https://archive.org/details/song-of-solomon-study/19791031.mp3) - [19791121](https://archive.org/details/song-of-solomon-study/19791121.mp3) - [19791128](https://archive.org/details/song-of-solomon-study/19791128.mp3) - [19791205](https://archive.org/details/song-of-solomon-study/19791205.mp3) - [19791212](https://archive.org/details/song-of-solomon-study/19791212.mp3) - SOS 5:9,10 [19791219](https://archive.org/details/song-of-solomon-study/19791219.mp3) The Pre-eminence of Christ, Part 1 - [19800123](https://archive.org/details/song-of-solomon-study/19800123.mp3) - [19800130](https://archive.org/details/song-of-solomon-study/19800130.mp3) - [19800206](https://archive.org/details/song-of-solomon-study/19800206.mp3) - [19800430](https://archive.org/details/song-of-solomon-study/19800430.mp3) - [19800507](https://archive.org/details/song-of-solomon-study/19800507.mp3) - [19800514](https://archive.org/details/song-of-solomon-study/19800514.mp3) - [19800521](https://archive.org/details/song-of-solomon-study/19800521.mp3) - SOS 6:10 [19800924](https://archive.org/details/song-of-solomon-study/19800924.mp3) The Mysteries Involving the Bride - SOS 6:11 [19801001](https://archive.org/details/song-of-solomon-study/19801001.mp3) The Bride and the Word - [19801015](https://archive.org/details/song-of-solomon-study/19801015.mp3) - [19801029](https://archive.org/details/song-of-solomon-study/19801029.mp3) - [19801105](https://archive.org/details/song-of-solomon-study/19801105.mp3) - [19801112](https://archive.org/details/song-of-solomon-study/19801112.mp3) - [19801119](https://archive.org/details/song-of-solomon-study/19801119.mp3) - [19801126](https://archive.org/details/song-of-solomon-study/19801126.mp3) - [19801203](https://archive.org/details/song-of-solomon-study/19801203.mp3) - [19801210](https://archive.org/details/song-of-solomon-study/19801210.mp3) - [19810107](https://archive.org/details/song-of-solomon-study/19810107.mp3) - [19810114](https://archive.org/details/song-of-solomon-study/19810114.mp3) - [19810121](https://archive.org/details/song-of-solomon-study/19810121.mp3) - [19810211](https://archive.org/details/song-of-solomon-study/19810211.mp3) - [19810218](https://archive.org/details/song-of-solomon-study/19810218.mp3) - [19810225](https://archive.org/details/song-of-solomon-study/19810225.mp3) - [19810304](https://archive.org/details/song-of-solomon-study/19810304.mp3) - [19810311](https://archive.org/details/song-of-solomon-study/19810311.mp3) - [19810318](https://archive.org/details/song-of-solomon-study/19810318.mp3) - [19810325](https://archive.org/details/song-of-solomon-study/19810325.mp3) ## Resources - [Introduction PDF](https://bible.exchange/attachments/41)