The Upward Call

I, Jesus, have sent My angel to testify to you and to give you assurance of these things for the churches. I am the Root (the Source, the Life) and the Offspring of David, the radiant and bright Morning Star. (Revelation 22:16) Just as the morning star appears before the sun rises, so Jesus will come for the church. The [Holy] Spirit and the bride (the church, believers) say, “Come.” And let the one who hears say, “Come." (Revelation 22:17) The call of the Spirit and the bride is a call to growth and maturity. Press on toward the goal to win the [heavenly] prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus. (Philippians 3:14) Therefore repent [change your inner self—your old way of thinking, your sinful behavior—seek God’s will]; or else I am coming to you quickly, and I will make war and fight against them with the sword of My mouth [in judgment]. (Revelation 2:16)

Seek (long for, require) good and not evil, that you may live;

And so may the LORD God of hosts be with you,

Just as you have said!

Hate evil and love good,

And establish justice in the [court of the city] gate.

Perhaps the LORD God of hosts

Will be gracious to the remnant of Joseph [that is, those who remain after God’s judgment]. (Amos 5:14-15) Let the one who does wrong, still do wrong; and the one who is filthy (vile, impure), still be filthy; and the one who is righteous (just, upright), still be righteous; and the one who is holy, still be holy.

Blessed (happy, prosperous, to be admired) are those who wash their robes [in the blood of Christ by believing and trusting in Him--the righteous who do His commandments], so that they may have the right to the tree of life, and may enter by the gates into the city. Outside are the dogs [the godless, the impure, those of low moral character] and the sorcerers [with their intoxicating drugs, and magic arts], and the immoral persons [the perverted, the molesters, and the adulterers], and the murderers, and the idolaters, and everyone who loves and practices lying (deception, cheating). (Revelation 22:11,14-15) The grace of the Lord Jesus (the Christ, the Messiah) be with all [the saints--all believers, those set apart for God]. Amen (Revelation 22:21)