Staying intimately connected to the True Vine is the only way to "bear fruit in old age" ( Psalm 92:14), to "run and not grow weary" ( Isaiah 40:31), and to not "grow weary in well-doing" ( Galatians 6:9).
One counterfeit to bearing good fruit is pretense. We can become experts at the routines, the lingo, and "acting Christian," while experiencing no real power and bearing no eternal fruit. Our hearts remain self-centered, angry, and joyless even while we go through the motions of serving God. We can easily slip into the sin of the Pharisees of Jesus' day in judging ourselves by how we think we appear to others and neglecting that secret place of the heart where all good fruit germinates. When we love, desire, pursue, and fear the same things that the rest of the world does, we are not abiding in Christ, even though our lives may be filled with church-related activity.
And, often, we don't realize that we are living fruitless lives ( 1 John 2:15-17).
Our works will be tested by fire. Using a different metaphor than fruit,
1 Corinthians 3:12-15 says, "If anyone builds on this foundation using gold, silver, costly stones, wood, hay or straw, their work will be shown for what it is, because the Day will bring it to light. It will be revealed with fire, and the fire will test the quality of each person's work. If what has been built survives, the builder will receive a reward. If it is burned up, the builder will suffer loss but yet will be saved-even though only as one escaping through the flames."
God is the judge of even our thoughts and motivations. All will be brought to the light when we stand before Him ( Hebrews 4:12-13).
God knows what He has entrusted to each of us and what He expects us to do with it ( Luke 12:48). Our responsibility before God is to be "faithful with little" so that He can trust us with much ( Matthew 25:21).
"Know ye not that ye are the temple of God, and that the Spirit of God dwelleth in you? If any man defile the temple of God, him shall God destroy; for the temple of God is holy, which temple ye are."
Ephesians 4:23
If so be that ye have heard him, and have been taught by him, as the truth is in Jesus: That ye put off concerning the former conversation the old man, which is corrupt according to the deceitful lusts; And be renewed in the spirit of your mind; And that ye put on the new man, which after God is created in righteousness and true holiness.
Colossians 3:9
"Lie not one to another, seeing that ye have put off the old man with his deeds; And have put on the new man, which is renewed in knowledge after the image of him that created him: "
2 Corinthians: 517
"Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new."
Colossians 3:9-10
"Lie not one to another, seeing that ye have put off the old man with his deeds; and have put on the new man, which is renewed in knowledge after the image of him that created him."
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."
"Know ye not that ye are the temple of God, and that the Spirit of God dwelleth in you? If any man defile the temple of God, him shall God destroy; for the temple of God is holy, which temple ye are."
Ephesians 4:23
If so be that ye have heard him, and have been taught by him, as the truth is in Jesus: That ye put off concerning the former conversation the old man, which is corrupt according to the deceitful lusts; And be renewed in the spirit of your mind; And that ye put on the new man, which after God is created in righteousness and true holiness.
Colossians 3:9
"Lie not one to another, seeing that ye have put off the old man with his deeds; And have put on the new man, which is renewed in knowledge after the image of him that created him: "
2 Corinthians: 517
"Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new."
Colossians 3:9-10
"Lie not one to another, seeing that ye have put off the old man with his deeds; and have put on the new man, which is renewed in knowledge after the image of him that created him."
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."
Good to hear from you, very good question. First, the Roman Church elevated Mary to the queen of heaven the same title as Tammuz's mother we see Israel worshiping. They say she ascended to heaven and much more. If we look at Acts we see Paul said that David is still in his tomb and has not ascended to heaven, Acts 2:29 and Acts 2:34. Many believe after Jesus was resurrected saints were also resurrected and are in heaven and many pray to them. My understanding is no one has been resurrected all are in the grave asleep in death.
When God through His Spirit the Holy Spirit raised Jesus from the dead He placed Jesus above all that is in heaven, on earth, and under the earth, Philippians 2:9-11. God placed Jesus on His right hand on the throne of God, therefore giving Jesus the power of the throne.
John 14:13 And whatsoever ye shall ask in my name, that will I do, that the Father may be glorified in the Son. Jesus also said John 16:23 And in that day ye shall ask me nothing. Verily, verily, I say unto you, Whatsoever ye shall ask the Father in my name, he will give it you.
God the Father and Jesus will dwell in us by the Spirit, not in temples made by hands like Jesus said in John 4:21-23 and we see in 1 Corinthians 3:16. We see in 1 John 4:12-16 it is by the Spirit that Jesus who is sitting on the right side of God on the throne of God as the only mediator between us and God has been given the power of the throne until all enemies are under His feet, 1 Corinthians 15:27-28.
My humble understanding it is by the Spirit of God/Holy Spirit that Jesus can see and hear all. Jesus is the only begotten Son of God and His God is our God the Father as Jesus said to Mary John 20:17.
You stated, "The Old Testament is the foundation; the NT builds on that foundation.
Testament means covenant.
Here I will highlight some verses in Hebrews 9:1-28.
8) The Holy Ghost this signifying, that the way into the holiest of all was not yet made manifest, while as the first tabernacle was yet standing:
9) Which was a figure for the time then present, in which were offered both gifts and sacrifices, that could not make him that did the service perfect, as pertaining to the conscience;
10) Which stood only in meats and drinks, and divers washings, and carnal ordinances, imposed on them until the time of reformation.
11) But Christ being come an high priest of good things to come, by a greater and more perfect tabernacle, not made with hands, that is to say, not of this building;
23) It was therefore necessary that the patterns of things in the heavens should be purified with these; but the heavenly things themselves with better sacrifices than these.
24) For Christ is not entered into the holy places made with hands, which are the figures of the true; but into heaven itself, now to appear in the presence of God for us:
Verse 11 says, "not made with hands, that is to say, not of this building.
I will use that verse to springboard us onto the foundation which we build on that was prophesied in the OT but was rejected because of Israel blindness.
Isaiah 8:14
1 Peter 2:6-8
1 Corinthians 3:11
Ephesians 2:20
Romans 9:31-33.
When a building is being erected the corner stone is the first stone layed and where everything is squared and leveled.
Those who was saved in the OT also rested on this foundation.
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.
Ephesians 5:27 is often thought of erroneously; as if the Lord can't come back until His church gets their act together. Let's be honest for a second; there never will be a time the true saints of God will all be in this state before the Rapture; as is clear from verses such as 1 Corinthians 3:15 and other verses clearly indicate. This leaves us with only two possibilities; that not all believers will be raptured and some will be left behind to get their garments cleaned; or everyone will be raptured who is now a believer but there will be differing rewards or lack thereof. I don't wish to be dogmatic either way here as the scriptures seem to point towards the first option with close examination. In any event those who already have passed away are now in the presence of the Lamb as seen from Hebrews 9:27.
It shouldn't need to be stated that some who claim to be Christians are wolves in sheep's clothing. There is hope for some who reject Christ at present to repent in the Tribulation. There may be some now who will wake up the other side of the Rapture and realize what they thought about their state was different than reality. Some no doubt will be susceptible and fall eway to Antichrist; others will accept martyrdom rather than denounce Christ. In my opinion such a smackdown is necessary to jump start these individuals; again going against the logic that Christ is waiting for the church to be purified in their own timing. The Lord is patient and longsuffering but let's face it if we can't see how dark things are already then we are pretty well emasculated and unable to have any effective witness today. Satan isn't hiding anymore; nor his minions. Their agenda is in your face everywhere; it seems. His Bride truly is here today; but in a remnant largely hidden from "churchianity" at large.
Thank you for your thoughts and adding to the discussion.
Yes, we are to reap; however, we are still called to sow the seed. Matthew 28: 18-20. This is because we don't know when the LORD JESUS comes and our work is ended here on earth. We keep sowing, because GOD is not willing that any one perish, but all come to repentance. 2 Peter 3:9.
For one plants, another waters, but GOD gives the increase.
1 Corinthians 3:6-11
We sow through CHRIST JESUS in our testimony, and witness as people see our daily relationship with our SAVIOR. In our sharing and declaring of the Salvation of the LORD. Titus 2:11-14.
GOD bless you in your ministry of faith. November 29, 2023
I am a lot like you in many ways. I rid myself of all technology. No phone, vehicle etc. I wanted to go back to roots if you understand what I mean. I only kept my PC so I can try to study the bible and have only recently setup a facebook account a couple of months back so that I can try to "fellowship" with as many different Christians as that is where everyone seems to be and I did not want to ( 1 Corinthians 3:18) "deceive myself". But I am a very cautious and self-aware individual and so I am wary of ( Matthew 7:15) wolves in sheep's clothing while at the same time I don't want to become a fulfillement of the prophecy ( 2 Timothy 4:3) which I feel is actually coming to pass. I want to find that biblical sound doctrine So I know what path I need to walk.
I thank you for your time, patience and guidance and May our Lord God the Father bless you. Peace and love to you in Jesus name.
The context in this verse is Paul concerned about failing to obtain his goal of winning others, He's talking about preaching, Not sinning and somehow losing Salvation! Paul's goal is to win a prize!
He's using the analogy of getting off course and being disqualified.
This clears itself up it we take this passage of scripture from verse 22.
"To the weak became I as weak, that I might gain the weak: I am made all things to all men, that I might by all means save some.
And this I do for the gospel's sake, THAT I MIGHT BE PARTAKERS THEREOF WITH YOU.
Know ye not that they which run in a race run all, but one receiveth the prize? So run, that ye may obtain.
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.
I therefore so run, not as uncertainly; so fight I, not as one that beateth the air:
But I keep under my body and bring it into subjection: lest that by any means, WHEN I HAVE PREACHED TO OTHERS, I myself should be a castaway.
(Paul is talking about rewards, he makes this clear in 1 Corinthians 3:12-15.)
"Now if any man build upon this foundation gold, silver, precious stones, wood, hay, stubble;
Every man's work shall be made manifest: for the day shall declare it, because it shall be revealed by fire; and the fire shall try every man's work of what sort it is.
If any man's work abide which he hath built thereupon, he shall receive a reward.
If any man's work shall be burned, he shall suffer loss: but he himself shall be saved; yet so as by fire.
(he shall suffer loss: but he himself shall be saved;)
I agree with Gigi, We are to gather from those who are gifted to teach, preach, and proclaim.
Jesus said; He is truth!
He also said, "My sheep hear my voice!
When truth is proclaimed it's Christ spirit in us that discerns it.
In 1 Corinthians 3:5-7 Paul illustrates this concept of teaching.
We are to do as the Bereans in Acts 17:11 and test the scriptures to see if these things be true.
I believe we should approach the scripture as babes in Christ and not just examine others doctrine but also constantly examining our own, testing scripture with scripture and applying proper hermeneutics.
We take what we have learned from others and see if it holds up over time as we grow.
10 Now will I rise, saith the Lord; now will I be exalted; now will I lift up myself.
11 Ye shall conceive chaff, ye shall bring forth stubble: your breath, as fire, shall devour you.
12 And the people shall be as the burnings of lime: as thorns cut up shall they be burned in the fire.
13 Hear, ye that are far off(the Gentiles peoples), what I have done; and, ye that are near (the Jews, the clay), acknowledge my might.
14 The sinners in Zion are afraid; fearfulness hath surprised the hypocrites. Who among us SHALL DWELL with the devouring fire? who among us SHALL DWELL with everlasting burnings?
1 CORINTHIANS 3:13-15KJV
13 Every man's work shall be made manifest: for the day shall declare it, because it shall be revealed by fire; and the fire shall try every man's work of what sort it is.
14 If any man's work abide which he hath built thereupon, he shall receive a reward.
15 If any man's work shall be burned, he shall suffer loss: but he himself shall be saved; yet so as by fire.
Here is the basis of Jema's very important question.
Quoting Jema.
The thing that puzzles me is : 'promised before the world began' , where did Paul get this specific information from at that time ? I guess Paul was wise for his time , we know because we have the full Bible , old and new and we can discern the big picture . We can recognise that it was God's perpose all along , to creat a people who would love Him and want to be with Him , where and how did Paul find this out ?
The only way this could be revealed to Paul is by divine intervention by the words of Christ assisted by the Holyspirit.
Paul was sharing what was revealed to him as did the other Disciples and Apostles.
The Holyspirit is our strength today, He assist our teaching and reveals truth to the blood tipped ear.
The Ministry of the Holyspirit and our total dependency on him is paramount to the Christian fate.
V: THE SPIRITUAL CONDITION OF THE CHURCH IN CORINTH:
The spiritual condition of the church and leadership in Corinth was given to us back in 1 Corinthians 3:1-4 where he says, "I brethren, when I was with you, I could not speak unto you as to spiritual, but as to carnal, people who function according to the human and have no spiritual growth, so when I was first with you, I fed you as babes in Christ, and I fed you with milk, not with meat. For hitherto, you were not able to bear it, now you are neither able to bear it."
When Paul wrote that, it was approximately five years since he has been there. So, he says five years ago when I was with you, I fed you with milk because you were just babes in Christ. But now five years later, you should be able to start handling some solid food. But you're still babes. You're still carnal. And he used a Greek word to show that it's abnormal.
There's a normal carnality and there's abnormal. If you are young in the Lord, then it's normal. That is the word SARKINOS. But as you grow in the Lord, you should be ready to handle solid food. If not, that is an abnormal carnal, and that is SARKIKOS. So, there was a carnal fleshy condition, not only in the congregation, but in the leadership.
VI: SECTION OUTLINE OF 2 CORINTHIANS:
There are only three sections.
CHAPTERS 1 THROUGH 7: The description of ministry.
Notice it doesn't say the ministry. This is all ministry. And Paul is going to present that all believers have a ministry. And he's going to describe it for us. And you can see just by that first section that if Paul describes ministry for them, they're going to be comparing what Paul says with the false teachers that are in town.
VII: THE SPIRITUAL CONDITION OF THE CHURCH IN CORINTH:
Notice this scripture. This is 1 Corinthians 3:1-4. This section of scripture tells us the spiritual condition of the church in Corinth. Paul says in Verse 1 "And I brethren, I could not speak to you as unto spiritual." When he came there, they were babes in Christ. So, he could not talk to them as spiritually mature people. He says, "But as unto carnal."
Now there are two Greek words for carnal. The only difference in the two words is one letter. We have SARKINOS, and SARKIKOS. It is the word for flesh. That's what the word carnal means.
In the oldest manuscripts (not in the Textus Receptus), but in some of the older manuscripts, the first word here in Verse 1 of Chapter 3 is SARKINOS. "I could not speak unto you as unto spiritual, but as to SARKINOS, fleshly, even as unto babes in Christ."
So, he says you just received the Lord and you're very young in the Lord and you don't understand those things, so I cannot speak spiritual things to you. I had to speak as unto fleshly people. In Verse 2, he says I have fed you with milk and not with meat. For hitherto, that is up to now, you were not able to bear it, neither yet now are you able.
Approximately five years after Paul visited Corinth, he's writing to them, and what he's saying is that carnal, SARKINOS, is a normal condition. When a person first receives Christ, they are a babe in Christ. They don't know the things of the Lord. They don't have any spiritual development because they've just been born of the Spirit of God.
1 Corinthians 3:13-15. is speaking of the same judgment as
2 Corinthians 5:10. Just in more detail.
Every man's work shall be made manifest: FOR THE DAY SHALL DECLARE IT, because it shall be revealed by fire; and the fire shall try every man's work of what sort it is.
If any man's work abide which he hath built thereupon, he shall receive a reward.
If any man's work shall be burned, he shall suffer loss: BUT HE HIMSELF SHALL BE SAVED; yet so as by fire.
The good and bad mentioned here is the good and bad works, Not good and bad people. That's why it says every man's WORKS shall be made manifest.
I do agree with you about the fruit and what you declared in the other post as you mentioned John 14:15.
Good works is a product of fruit barring.
And fruit barring is a product of being connected to the vine.
If we take that section further we would develop a context that
suggests Christ is talking about a condition of a person already saved.
He's not giving a requirement to get saved.
John 14:15-23. If ye love me, keep my commandments.
And I will pray the Father, and he shall give you another Comforter, that he may abide with you for ever; Even the Spirit of truth; whom the world cannot receive, because it seeth him not, neither knoweth him: but ye know him; for he dwelleth with you, and shall be in you....
He's making a contrast between those who love and obey him and the world who don't.
...and will manifest myself to him. Judas saith unto him, not Iscariot, Lord, how is it that thou wilt manifest thyself unto us, and not unto the world?
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.
This is a description of one saved not a requirement to be saved.
If you are saved YOU WILL LOVE HIM, everything you do he causes it.
The Bema Seat deals with rewards for obedience, crowns, and the call of the Bride to the Marriage of the Lamb which occurs in the Father's house.
The Sheep and Goat Judgment is on the earth. Three separate parties are involved, and mortals are judged on the basis of their "works."
The Great White Throne occurs at the end of the Millennium, deals with the unsaved dead, and ushers in the New Heavens, the New Earth, and the New Jerusalem.
The Bema Seat Judgment is apparently the first order of business for the translated saints after the Harpazo. Everyone present will be "saved;" salvation is not the issue here. (That was concluded on a wooden cross erected in Judea about 2,000 years ago!) Everyone present will have been saved by the completed work of our Lord Jesus. The issue here is fruit-bearing, not salvation.
All are building on the same foundation, but with vastly differing results.
[ According to the grace of God which is given unto me, as a wise masterbuilder, I have laid the foundation, and another buildeth thereon. But let every man take heed how he buildeth thereupon. For other foundation can no man lay than that is laid, which is Jesus Christ.
1 Corinthians 3:10-11
"Let every man take heed:" A solemn warning. We are God's Building. We are only subcontractors.
The evaluation procedure is then detailed:
Now if any man build upon this foundation gold, silver, precious stones, [or] wood, hay, stubble;
1 Corinthians 3:12 (KJV)
Notice that there are six commodities in two groups, in descending order of worth. Three are products of a God's creative act, not growth or development; three are the result of natural growth and development (from our old nature?).
The first three are permanent. The last three will perish under fire. (The largest load of hay or wood would be worth less than the smallest diamond.)
Every man's work shall be made manifest: for the day shall declare it, because it shall be revealed by fire; and the fire shall try every man's work of what sort it is.
1 Corinthians 3:13 (KJV)
Also, notice that the "work" is being appraised, not the person. It is the work being tested by fire, not the individual. All are building on the same foundation, but the results are vastly different.
If any man's work abide which he hath built thereupon, he shall receive a reward.
1 Corinthians 3:14 (KJV)
Rewards, not salvation, are the issue. Among these rewards, five crowns may be included: the Crown of righteousness, Crown of glory, Crown of life, incorruptible Crown, and Crown of rejoicing.
Salvation is invariably presented as a free gift; rewards are earned by works (fruit-bearing).
Salvation is a present possession; rewards are a future attainment given by Him at His Coming.
If any man's work shall be burned, he shall suffer loss: but he himself shall be saved; yet so as by fire.
1 Corinthians 3:15 (KJV)
So you have been saved: what have you done with it?
That which is done for sake of personal gain, popularity, influence, or its impression on the world, will be for naught.
As God shines light into darkness we are always repenting of the beliefs of the flesh and growing in the grace of God.
I believe as you keep studying and God keeps teaching you, you will keep growing in truth.
I believe you will realize that death of unbelievers is not ETERNAL; but for a specified time, he presently is gathering the priest ONLY; into the kingdom of God, then he will resurrect ALL flesh that has died in unbelief back to their flesh and blood bodies, they will be judged by Christ and his priest and brought to TRUTH, that is the second death describe in Revelation.
Romans 8:19 For the earnest expectation of the creature WAITETH for the MANIFESTATION of the Sons of God.
They died in unbelief and are wanting in the grave, for the Sons of God to be gather to judge the world.
Romans 8:21 For the creature itself ALSO (second resurrection) shall be DELIVERED from the bondage of corruption (death and the grave) into the GLORIOUS liberty of the children of God (through judgement).
1 Corinthians 3:15 If any man's WORK shall be burned, he shall suffer loss: but he himself shall be save, YET as by FIRE (judgement).
Isaiah 26:9 ...when thy JUDGEMENTS are in the earth, the inhabitants SHALL LEARN righteousness.
1 Corinthians 15:28 When God has put all thing under Christ, GOD will be ALL in ALL.
Ephesians 1:23 Which is his body, the fullness of him that filleth ALL in ALL.
Luke 12:3 and Matthew 12:36 are eye opening; as we are to give account for everything said and nothing is secret to God.
I would like to say that I don't do any grumbling or complaining; but alas then I would be lying. Thankfully anything but blasphemy against the Spirit can be forgiven. As Jesus pointed out to the self-righteous Pharisees; these bad fruits come from within. And 2 Peter 2:21 makes it clear that it is better not to have known the truth than to become reprobate. The blood of Christ is our only hope as Jeremiah 17:9 shows how sick the heart is.
There are Post Millennialists who dispute this; but I don't believe anyone from the church age who is a believer will be at the Great White Throne Judgment. I DO have the opinion that since the verse indicates that those who aren't in the Book of Life are going to the lake of fire; there is room for those who physically survive the Millennial period to go through that as saved people and hence be translated into heaven without dying.
In any event; 1 Corinthians 3:15 indicates that one can make it into heaven and suffer loss. That would be analogous to losing rewards as Revelation 3:11 warns. Paul indicates how we run for the prize. Only a few gain great rewards; as would be indicated by those making 100 fold as opposed to 30 fold returns or others ( Mark 4:20). We should not be confined to just the saved and lost divisions when scripture gives us admonitions for certain crowns that those who persevere; are martyred or are pastors as well as other situations are given for faithfulness.
Matthew 6:19-21 shows us that our treasure is to be in heaven. And that means that He must trust us with earthly riches as well ( Luke 16:10-12) as a test; a prerequisite for heavenly riches. Our brothers in Christ that we support in the ministry will be able to enjoy the harvest with us (see John 4:37). That and personal witnessing are components of fulfilling the Great Commission to finish well.
May we be faithful as we pray for our nation's leadership and their need for a relationship with our LORD JESUS CHRIST. 1 Timothy 2:9. Let us not faint or be weak; but may we go forward and reach the lost. May we be not weary of well doing, but be strong through HIS word and promises.
We must be about the work of the LORD, making disciples as we called to do in Matthew 28: 18-20.
As GOD is not willing that anyone should perish, 1 Peter 3:9, we must be encouraged and plant the seed, water where we can so that the LORD GOD will give the increase. 1 Corinthians 3:6
The time is at hand where all saints are called to duty and reach out, pray up, and tell to all the salvation available in the gospel of the LORD JESUS CHRIST. Romans 10: 9-12; Acts 4:10-12.
GOD bless all on this platform and praise the LORD on this Resurrection Sunday, 2023. GOD to shine HIS face on all, and be gracious as we await HIS coming.
Thoughts on the Rapture and timing as well as reasoning/
Note: I can't find the prequel as it were to this thread; so the audience may be limited. I may get into further discussion on the main discussion area but will try to sum things up here.
A major issue here that I have opened the "can of worms" on is; in regard to just who is identified as those dressed in white garments which were made that way through blood ( Rev. 7:14 referring to robes). It certainly can be expected that the witness of the 144,000 will bring many to faith and willing martyrdom. Other verses referring those whose garments were made white make verses such as Revelation 3:4; and Zechariah 3:3 be contrasted with Ephesians 5:27. For if some in Laodicea are naked among other things; surely anyone with a garment in God's presence is saved; although it is much like Jude 1:23 being saved as though through the fire; or 1 Corinthians 3:15 where one suffers loss and not much remains after their works are burned up by and large. In other words I would argue that to have a garment in the first place we are saved; if we allow sin to spot it then there are certain ramifications; including what I propose as missing the reward of a rapture if indeed it is more than just a salvation prerequisite. I would strongly suggest in these last days; there is little fruit being produced; and the Lord of the harvest is looking for it. He will either purge us to produce more fruit ( John 15:2) or as the same verse indicates we are not His child (producing no fruit) and are eventually cut off. Again; we need to broaden our scope and see those who are unbelievers; those judged more harshly for hearing and rejecting the truth; lukewarm believers and those who are producing much fruit. We must as Hebrews suggest; believe God is a rewarder of those things done for Him ( Heb. 11:6). We also should pay attention to those seeking a better country ( Heb. 11:16) of those who willingly gave up their lives for this.
Psalm 86. Here; after a long succession of Psalms attributed to others; we once again find a Psalm of David. Perhaps the reader can do further investigation to determine the approximate time in David's life when this was written.
We see in the inception of the Psalm in the first 4 verses characteristics of those which are of a "broken and contrite" spirit as Psalm 51 also describes. There is a "poor and needy" attitude (verse 2) and an attitude of submission as a servant (see verses 2 and 4). Finally; we see the characteristic of mercy in verse 3 as there apparently is a daily petition of crying to God.
The concept of trust in verse 2 is something that should be pondered more frequently as our attitude there affects how confident we are to God being faithful to meet our needs as well as working all things to the good for those who love Him (see Romans 8:28).
These characteristics allow us to converse and plead with God to attend to our requests (verse 6) and to answer in the day of trouble (verse 7). This is contrasted with such verses as Micah 3:4 and others which show the Lord will not hear the cry of the wicked in the day of their calamity because they are trying to avoid the consequences of their sins and sadly are too late for His saving Grace. Therefore; we must heed to not blowing God off; thinking that His patience will endure until we decide we are ready to "accept" Him. Salvation involves a relationship on HIS TERMS and according to His sovereign will and plans; of which we only can see a glimpse. These stipulations also are predicated on worshipping the true God (verse 8) and not the idols that other nations extol at their own peril ( Judges 16:29). In that story Sampson was shown in the end to know the Lord but reminds us of 1 Corinthians 3:12-15 of those who suffer loss of reward due to sinful living. The wicked there; nonetheless died in the midst of idol worship which should be a strong warning against any false religions today.
Dear Linda. Below is the story in the Bible about one man's question about how to be saved:
Paul and Silas's jailer asked them in ACTS 16:30 ..."Sirs, what must I do to be saved?" Their answer was as simple as this in ACTS 16:31 ..."Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, and you will be saved..." Simple as that.
Linda, you must believe in your heart and you will be saved. Simple as that. Take hold of that and trust God to show you the way to live in daily devotions: prayer, singing, reading and studying the Bible, and in doing for others. Seek out your pastor or a strong Christian that you trust to mentor you. Read the Gospel of John which concerns the deity of Christ. Study the Word to grow from a simple understanding of the Word (the milk) so that one day you will understand the harder things (meat).
1 Peter 2:2 "As newborn babes, desire the sincere milk of the word, that ye may grow thereby:"
1 Corinthians 3:2 "I have fed you with milk, and not with meat: for hitherto ye were not able to bear it, neither yet now are ye able."
Further thoughts on God working things out for the good.
Scripture; of course is our guide to all truth ( 2 Tim. 3:16). The overarching theme of the Bible is God's big picture from the Creation to the downfall of man; to final restoration of both body and soul of mankind; as well as nature and in the end the whole universe. We certainly can look at God putting Satan on a string who puts men on a string. When our identity is in Christ as His adopted sons and daughters ( Romans 8:14-17 etc) then we are part of the whole army of God and hence we shall rule and reign with Christ someday ( 2 Tim. 2:12; and parts of Revelation). We are part of those who are of the great "cloud of witnesses" ( Hebrews 12:1 which summarizes Hebrews 11 the "heroes" of the faith. What is done to us in some sense is done to Christ Himself ( Matt. 25:40). Whoever destroys the Temple of God will himself be destroyed ( 1 Corinthians 3:17); and blessed are those saints who die in the Lord ( Psalm 115:16; again see Revelation)
Hence; death itself is to be something looked forward to ( Philippians 1:23). It is indeed the "last enemy that shall be destroyed" ( 1 Cor. 15:26). In the meantime; as Paul also stated "I die daily" ( 1 Cor. 15:31). In Christ we can appreciate the experience of a slow death of the outer man so that the inner man can reach glorification. Keep in mind that it is the health and vitality of our soul that counts for eternity; all men will be Resurrected but it is the TYPE of resurrection that is important.
None of this; certainly takes away from the wisdom that we should have in regard to avoiding problems when we are able and it doesn't contradict God's plans for us; or of course for troubles that result from our own sin ( James 1:14-15). May it be that it won't happen to us as believers but sadly that's what it takes for some ( 1 Cor. 11:30 for the extreme example of an early earthly demise in certain cases). Better saved through the fire than not at all ( 1 Cor 3:15
Obviously, this is not evangelism at all. Rather it is judgment that is going to come upon this earth.
This is the scriptural picture of harvest.
Did the apostle Paul say that he was harvesting? In the Corinthian church there were divisions on several subjects. One of the problems was that some of them liked Apollos better than they liked Paul, and some liked Simon Peter more than they liked either one of the other two. Over this they were dividing the church - which was wrong. To divide churches on the basis of personalities is always wrong. Listen to Paul as he deals with this matter in his first letter to the Corinthians:
Who, then, is Paul, and who is Apollos, but ministers by whom ye believed, even as the Lord gave to every man? ( 1 Corinthians 3:5)
Now see if Paul understood that he was out harvesting:
I have planted, Apollos watered, but God gave the increase. So, then, neither is he that planteth anything, neither he that watereth, but God that giveth the increase. Now he that planteth and he that watereth are one; and every man shall receive his own reward according to his own labor. ( 1 Corinthians 3:6-8)
Paul said that he was planting the Word. All we can do is plant. It is the Holy Spirit who gives the increase.
You see, sowing seed is a picture of Scripture. My business is sowing seed. What is your business? And, by the way, how is business? Are you sowing seed in this world? This is our business today.
Now let us understand something else very clearly. If you sow seed, there will be a harvest. The psalmist speaks of this:
He that goeth forth and weepeth, bearing precious seed, shall doubtless come again with rejoicing, bringing his sheaves with him. ( Psalm 126:6)
Hi Donnie. This is a subject that we need to approach carefully. I believe that if we base our reading of the Scriptures & how we bring them together, on the following passage, then we would have a true view of the matter & what should be our stance (or, opinion) on it.
The portion is in 2 Timothy 2:17-19: "And their word will eat as doth a canker: of whom is Hymenaeus and Philetus; Who concerning the truth have erred, saying that the resurrection is past already; and overthrow the faith of some. Nevertheless the foundation of God standeth sure, having this seal, The Lord knoweth them that are his. And, Let every one that nameth the name of Christ depart from iniquity."
These two named persons could be representative of those who have 'departed from the faith': in this case, they not only taught incorrectly but continued to do so, causing many to err from the Truth & even have their faith compromised. And of course, there will be others, having believed & followed the Lord, but have been persuaded & led away by the prince of this World, preferring the world's offerings more than the sacrificial Love of God & His Son ( 1 John 2:15).
But "the foundation of God standeth sure, having this seal...". As the old hymn goes: 'the Church's one foundation is Jesus Christ her Lord..." seen also in 1 Corinthians 3:11; and we learn from 2 Timothy 2:19 that not only is Christ's Church firmly established according to God's great Plan, but those who are the Church (sealed by God's Spirit) are truly His - 'AND THE LORD KNOWS THEM THAT ARE HIS'. Every message from the NT writers to the believers (those who 'name the Name of Christ'), that they were to be living carefully & depart from all iniquity. The Apostle Peter says it well in 2 Peter 1:8-11: "...give diligence to make your calling and election sure: for if ye do these things, ye shall never fall...".
We can never judge another's salvation. but we can encourage all to pursue holiness & leave the rest to the Lord.
The Apostles lais the foundation in which we are to build upon.
Jesus is the Cornerstone. ( In building the Cornerstone is the first and most important part of the foundation. The rest of the building depends on It's perfection. afterwards the foundation is layed. (THE APOSTLES)
Then the comes the building. (US.)
Once the building has started there is no need of another foundation. This is what Christ was saying in Matthew 16:18. " upon this rock I will build my church; and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it."
HE was speaking of himself referencing Peters answer. ( Matthew 16:16 "Thou art the Christ, the Son of the living God.
Ephesians 2:19-22. Now therefore ye are no more strangers and foreigners, but fellowcitizens with the saints, and of the household of God;
And are built upon the FOUNDATION OF THE APOSTLES AND PROPHETS, Jesus Christ himself being the chief CORNER STONE;
In whom all the building fitly framed together groweth unto an holy temple in the Lord:
In whom YE ALSO ARE BUILDED TOGETHER FOR AN HABITATION of God through the Spirit.
Also see.
1 Corinthians 3:10-11 (KJV) According to the grace of God which is given unto me, as a wise masterbuilder, I have laid the foundation, and another buildeth thereon. But let every man take heed how he buildeth thereupon.
For other foundation can no man lay than that is laid, which is Jesus Christ.
"Thus saith the LORD of hosts; Consider your ways. Go up to the mountain, and bring wood, and build the house(of God); and I will take pleasure in it, and I will be glorified, saith the LORD. Ye looked for much, and, lo, it came to little; and when ye brought it home, I did blow upon it. Why? saith the LORD of hosts. Because of mine house that is waste, and ye run every man unto his own house. Therefore the heaven over you is stayed from dew, and the earth is stayed from her fruit."
1 Corinthians 3:16, "Know ye not that ye are the temple of God, and that the Spirit of God dwelleth in you?"
1 Corinthians 6:19, "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?"
Ephesians 2:19-21, "Now therefore ye are no more strangers and foreigners, but fellowcitizens with the saints, and of the household of God. And are built upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Jesus Christ himself being the chief corner stone; In whom all the building fitly framed together groweth unto an holy temple in the Lord: In whom ye also are builded together for an habitation of God through the Spirit."
Barring fruit.
Part 2.
Staying intimately connected to the True Vine is the only way to "bear fruit in old age" ( Psalm 92:14), to "run and not grow weary" ( Isaiah 40:31), and to not "grow weary in well-doing" ( Galatians 6:9).
One counterfeit to bearing good fruit is pretense. We can become experts at the routines, the lingo, and "acting Christian," while experiencing no real power and bearing no eternal fruit. Our hearts remain self-centered, angry, and joyless even while we go through the motions of serving God. We can easily slip into the sin of the Pharisees of Jesus' day in judging ourselves by how we think we appear to others and neglecting that secret place of the heart where all good fruit germinates. When we love, desire, pursue, and fear the same things that the rest of the world does, we are not abiding in Christ, even though our lives may be filled with church-related activity.
And, often, we don't realize that we are living fruitless lives ( 1 John 2:15-17).
Our works will be tested by fire. Using a different metaphor than fruit,
1 Corinthians 3:12-15 says, "If anyone builds on this foundation using gold, silver, costly stones, wood, hay or straw, their work will be shown for what it is, because the Day will bring it to light. It will be revealed with fire, and the fire will test the quality of each person's work. If what has been built survives, the builder will receive a reward. If it is burned up, the builder will suffer loss but yet will be saved-even though only as one escaping through the flames."
God is the judge of even our thoughts and motivations. All will be brought to the light when we stand before Him ( Hebrews 4:12-13).
God knows what He has entrusted to each of us and what He expects us to do with it ( Luke 12:48). Our responsibility before God is to be "faithful with little" so that He can trust us with much ( Matthew 25:21).
God bless.
1 Corinthians 3: 16-17
"Know ye not that ye are the temple of God, and that the Spirit of God dwelleth in you? If any man defile the temple of God, him shall God destroy; for the temple of God is holy, which temple ye are."
Ephesians 4:23
If so be that ye have heard him, and have been taught by him, as the truth is in Jesus: That ye put off concerning the former conversation the old man, which is corrupt according to the deceitful lusts; And be renewed in the spirit of your mind; And that ye put on the new man, which after God is created in righteousness and true holiness.
Colossians 3:9
"Lie not one to another, seeing that ye have put off the old man with his deeds; And have put on the new man, which is renewed in knowledge after the image of him that created him: "
2 Corinthians: 517
"Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new."
Colossians 3:9-10
"Lie not one to another, seeing that ye have put off the old man with his deeds; and have put on the new man, which is renewed in knowledge after the image of him that created him."
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 Bless :)
"Know ye not that ye are the temple of God, and that the Spirit of God dwelleth in you? If any man defile the temple of God, him shall God destroy; for the temple of God is holy, which temple ye are."
Ephesians 4:23
If so be that ye have heard him, and have been taught by him, as the truth is in Jesus: That ye put off concerning the former conversation the old man, which is corrupt according to the deceitful lusts; And be renewed in the spirit of your mind; And that ye put on the new man, which after God is created in righteousness and true holiness.
Colossians 3:9
"Lie not one to another, seeing that ye have put off the old man with his deeds; And have put on the new man, which is renewed in knowledge after the image of him that created him: "
2 Corinthians: 517
"Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new."
Colossians 3:9-10
"Lie not one to another, seeing that ye have put off the old man with his deeds; and have put on the new man, which is renewed in knowledge after the image of him that created him."
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 Bless :)
Good to hear from you, very good question. First, the Roman Church elevated Mary to the queen of heaven the same title as Tammuz's mother we see Israel worshiping. They say she ascended to heaven and much more. If we look at Acts we see Paul said that David is still in his tomb and has not ascended to heaven, Acts 2:29 and Acts 2:34. Many believe after Jesus was resurrected saints were also resurrected and are in heaven and many pray to them. My understanding is no one has been resurrected all are in the grave asleep in death.
When God through His Spirit the Holy Spirit raised Jesus from the dead He placed Jesus above all that is in heaven, on earth, and under the earth, Philippians 2:9-11. God placed Jesus on His right hand on the throne of God, therefore giving Jesus the power of the throne.
John 14:13 And whatsoever ye shall ask in my name, that will I do, that the Father may be glorified in the Son. Jesus also said John 16:23 And in that day ye shall ask me nothing. Verily, verily, I say unto you, Whatsoever ye shall ask the Father in my name, he will give it you.
God the Father and Jesus will dwell in us by the Spirit, not in temples made by hands like Jesus said in John 4:21-23 and we see in 1 Corinthians 3:16. We see in 1 John 4:12-16 it is by the Spirit that Jesus who is sitting on the right side of God on the throne of God as the only mediator between us and God has been given the power of the throne until all enemies are under His feet, 1 Corinthians 15:27-28.
My humble understanding it is by the Spirit of God/Holy Spirit that Jesus can see and hear all. Jesus is the only begotten Son of God and His God is our God the Father as Jesus said to Mary John 20:17.
God bless,
RLW
You stated, "The Old Testament is the foundation; the NT builds on that foundation.
Testament means covenant.
Here I will highlight some verses in Hebrews 9:1-28.
8) The Holy Ghost this signifying, that the way into the holiest of all was not yet made manifest, while as the first tabernacle was yet standing:
9) Which was a figure for the time then present, in which were offered both gifts and sacrifices, that could not make him that did the service perfect, as pertaining to the conscience;
10) Which stood only in meats and drinks, and divers washings, and carnal ordinances, imposed on them until the time of reformation.
11) But Christ being come an high priest of good things to come, by a greater and more perfect tabernacle, not made with hands, that is to say, not of this building;
23) It was therefore necessary that the patterns of things in the heavens should be purified with these; but the heavenly things themselves with better sacrifices than these.
24) For Christ is not entered into the holy places made with hands, which are the figures of the true; but into heaven itself, now to appear in the presence of God for us:
Verse 11 says, "not made with hands, that is to say, not of this building.
I will use that verse to springboard us onto the foundation which we build on that was prophesied in the OT but was rejected because of Israel blindness.
Isaiah 8:14
1 Peter 2:6-8
1 Corinthians 3:11
Ephesians 2:20
Romans 9:31-33.
When a building is being erected the corner stone is the first stone layed and where everything is squared and leveled.
Those who was saved in the OT also rested on this foundation.
God bless.
Ephesians 5:27 is often thought of erroneously; as if the Lord can't come back until His church gets their act together. Let's be honest for a second; there never will be a time the true saints of God will all be in this state before the Rapture; as is clear from verses such as 1 Corinthians 3:15 and other verses clearly indicate. This leaves us with only two possibilities; that not all believers will be raptured and some will be left behind to get their garments cleaned; or everyone will be raptured who is now a believer but there will be differing rewards or lack thereof. I don't wish to be dogmatic either way here as the scriptures seem to point towards the first option with close examination. In any event those who already have passed away are now in the presence of the Lamb as seen from Hebrews 9:27.
It shouldn't need to be stated that some who claim to be Christians are wolves in sheep's clothing. There is hope for some who reject Christ at present to repent in the Tribulation. There may be some now who will wake up the other side of the Rapture and realize what they thought about their state was different than reality. Some no doubt will be susceptible and fall eway to Antichrist; others will accept martyrdom rather than denounce Christ. In my opinion such a smackdown is necessary to jump start these individuals; again going against the logic that Christ is waiting for the church to be purified in their own timing. The Lord is patient and longsuffering but let's face it if we can't see how dark things are already then we are pretty well emasculated and unable to have any effective witness today. Satan isn't hiding anymore; nor his minions. Their agenda is in your face everywhere; it seems. His Bride truly is here today; but in a remnant largely hidden from "churchianity" at large.
Thank you for your thoughts and adding to the discussion.
Yes, we are to reap; however, we are still called to sow the seed. Matthew 28: 18-20. This is because we don't know when the LORD JESUS comes and our work is ended here on earth. We keep sowing, because GOD is not willing that any one perish, but all come to repentance. 2 Peter 3:9.
For one plants, another waters, but GOD gives the increase.
1 Corinthians 3:6-11
We sow through CHRIST JESUS in our testimony, and witness as people see our daily relationship with our SAVIOR. In our sharing and declaring of the Salvation of the LORD. Titus 2:11-14.
GOD bless you in your ministry of faith. November 29, 2023
I believe you should receive the earnings of the wages of your labour's and if you trust God you should have title do with in thy will.
I am a lot like you in many ways. I rid myself of all technology. No phone, vehicle etc. I wanted to go back to roots if you understand what I mean. I only kept my PC so I can try to study the bible and have only recently setup a facebook account a couple of months back so that I can try to "fellowship" with as many different Christians as that is where everyone seems to be and I did not want to ( 1 Corinthians 3:18) "deceive myself". But I am a very cautious and self-aware individual and so I am wary of ( Matthew 7:15) wolves in sheep's clothing while at the same time I don't want to become a fulfillement of the prophecy ( 2 Timothy 4:3) which I feel is actually coming to pass. I want to find that biblical sound doctrine So I know what path I need to walk.
I thank you for your time, patience and guidance and May our Lord God the Father bless you. Peace and love to you in Jesus name.
Part 5.
You mentioned 1 Corinthians 9:27.
CASTAWAY.
The context in this verse is Paul concerned about failing to obtain his goal of winning others, He's talking about preaching, Not sinning and somehow losing Salvation! Paul's goal is to win a prize!
He's using the analogy of getting off course and being disqualified.
This clears itself up it we take this passage of scripture from verse 22.
"To the weak became I as weak, that I might gain the weak: I am made all things to all men, that I might by all means save some.
And this I do for the gospel's sake, THAT I MIGHT BE PARTAKERS THEREOF WITH YOU.
Know ye not that they which run in a race run all, but one receiveth the prize? So run, that ye may obtain.
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.
I therefore so run, not as uncertainly; so fight I, not as one that beateth the air:
But I keep under my body and bring it into subjection: lest that by any means, WHEN I HAVE PREACHED TO OTHERS, I myself should be a castaway.
(Paul is talking about rewards, he makes this clear in 1 Corinthians 3:12-15.)
"Now if any man build upon this foundation gold, silver, precious stones, wood, hay, stubble;
Every man's work shall be made manifest: for the day shall declare it, because it shall be revealed by fire; and the fire shall try every man's work of what sort it is.
If any man's work abide which he hath built thereupon, he shall receive a reward.
If any man's work shall be burned, he shall suffer loss: but he himself shall be saved; yet so as by fire.
(he shall suffer loss: but he himself shall be saved;)
See Part 6.
I agree with Gigi, We are to gather from those who are gifted to teach, preach, and proclaim.
Jesus said; He is truth!
He also said, "My sheep hear my voice!
When truth is proclaimed it's Christ spirit in us that discerns it.
In 1 Corinthians 3:5-7 Paul illustrates this concept of teaching.
We are to do as the Bereans in Acts 17:11 and test the scriptures to see if these things be true.
I believe we should approach the scripture as babes in Christ and not just examine others doctrine but also constantly examining our own, testing scripture with scripture and applying proper hermeneutics.
We take what we have learned from others and see if it holds up over time as we grow.
God bless.
Isaiah 33:10-14KJV
10 Now will I rise, saith the Lord; now will I be exalted; now will I lift up myself.
11 Ye shall conceive chaff, ye shall bring forth stubble: your breath, as fire, shall devour you.
12 And the people shall be as the burnings of lime: as thorns cut up shall they be burned in the fire.
13 Hear, ye that are far off(the Gentiles peoples), what I have done; and, ye that are near (the Jews, the clay), acknowledge my might.
14 The sinners in Zion are afraid; fearfulness hath surprised the hypocrites. Who among us SHALL DWELL with the devouring fire? who among us SHALL DWELL with everlasting burnings?
1 CORINTHIANS 3:13-15KJV
13 Every man's work shall be made manifest: for the day shall declare it, because it shall be revealed by fire; and the fire shall try every man's work of what sort it is.
14 If any man's work abide which he hath built thereupon, he shall receive a reward.
15 If any man's work shall be burned, he shall suffer loss: but he himself shall be saved; yet so as by fire.
Quoting Jema.
The thing that puzzles me is : 'promised before the world began' , where did Paul get this specific information from at that time ? I guess Paul was wise for his time , we know because we have the full Bible , old and new and we can discern the big picture . We can recognise that it was God's perpose all along , to creat a people who would love Him and want to be with Him , where and how did Paul find this out ?
The only way this could be revealed to Paul is by divine intervention by the words of Christ assisted by the Holyspirit.
Paul was sharing what was revealed to him as did the other Disciples and Apostles.
The Holyspirit is our strength today, He assist our teaching and reveals truth to the blood tipped ear.
The Ministry of the Holyspirit and our total dependency on him is paramount to the Christian fate.
You see that also played out in
1 Corinthians 3:1-23.
V: THE SPIRITUAL CONDITION OF THE CHURCH IN CORINTH:
The spiritual condition of the church and leadership in Corinth was given to us back in 1 Corinthians 3:1-4 where he says, "I brethren, when I was with you, I could not speak unto you as to spiritual, but as to carnal, people who function according to the human and have no spiritual growth, so when I was first with you, I fed you as babes in Christ, and I fed you with milk, not with meat. For hitherto, you were not able to bear it, now you are neither able to bear it."
When Paul wrote that, it was approximately five years since he has been there. So, he says five years ago when I was with you, I fed you with milk because you were just babes in Christ. But now five years later, you should be able to start handling some solid food. But you're still babes. You're still carnal. And he used a Greek word to show that it's abnormal.
There's a normal carnality and there's abnormal. If you are young in the Lord, then it's normal. That is the word SARKINOS. But as you grow in the Lord, you should be ready to handle solid food. If not, that is an abnormal carnal, and that is SARKIKOS. So, there was a carnal fleshy condition, not only in the congregation, but in the leadership.
VI: SECTION OUTLINE OF 2 CORINTHIANS:
There are only three sections.
CHAPTERS 1 THROUGH 7: The description of ministry.
Notice it doesn't say the ministry. This is all ministry. And Paul is going to present that all believers have a ministry. And he's going to describe it for us. And you can see just by that first section that if Paul describes ministry for them, they're going to be comparing what Paul says with the false teachers that are in town.
VII: THE SPIRITUAL CONDITION OF THE CHURCH IN CORINTH:
Notice this scripture. This is 1 Corinthians 3:1-4. This section of scripture tells us the spiritual condition of the church in Corinth. Paul says in Verse 1 "And I brethren, I could not speak to you as unto spiritual." When he came there, they were babes in Christ. So, he could not talk to them as spiritually mature people. He says, "But as unto carnal."
Now there are two Greek words for carnal. The only difference in the two words is one letter. We have SARKINOS, and SARKIKOS. It is the word for flesh. That's what the word carnal means.
In the oldest manuscripts (not in the Textus Receptus), but in some of the older manuscripts, the first word here in Verse 1 of Chapter 3 is SARKINOS. "I could not speak unto you as unto spiritual, but as to SARKINOS, fleshly, even as unto babes in Christ."
So, he says you just received the Lord and you're very young in the Lord and you don't understand those things, so I cannot speak spiritual things to you. I had to speak as unto fleshly people. In Verse 2, he says I have fed you with milk and not with meat. For hitherto, that is up to now, you were not able to bear it, neither yet now are you able.
Approximately five years after Paul visited Corinth, he's writing to them, and what he's saying is that carnal, SARKINOS, is a normal condition. When a person first receives Christ, they are a babe in Christ. They don't know the things of the Lord. They don't have any spiritual development because they've just been born of the Spirit of God.
1 Corinthians 3:13-15. is speaking of the same judgment as
2 Corinthians 5:10. Just in more detail.
Every man's work shall be made manifest: FOR THE DAY SHALL DECLARE IT, because it shall be revealed by fire; and the fire shall try every man's work of what sort it is.
If any man's work abide which he hath built thereupon, he shall receive a reward.
If any man's work shall be burned, he shall suffer loss: BUT HE HIMSELF SHALL BE SAVED; yet so as by fire.
The good and bad mentioned here is the good and bad works, Not good and bad people. That's why it says every man's WORKS shall be made manifest.
I do agree with you about the fruit and what you declared in the other post as you mentioned John 14:15.
Good works is a product of fruit barring.
And fruit barring is a product of being connected to the vine.
If we take that section further we would develop a context that
suggests Christ is talking about a condition of a person already saved.
He's not giving a requirement to get saved.
John 14:15-23. If ye love me, keep my commandments.
And I will pray the Father, and he shall give you another Comforter, that he may abide with you for ever; Even the Spirit of truth; whom the world cannot receive, because it seeth him not, neither knoweth him: but ye know him; for he dwelleth with you, and shall be in you....
He's making a contrast between those who love and obey him and the world who don't.
...and will manifest myself to him. Judas saith unto him, not Iscariot, Lord, how is it that thou wilt manifest thyself unto us, and not unto the world?
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.
This is a description of one saved not a requirement to be saved.
If you are saved YOU WILL LOVE HIM, everything you do he causes it.
good night and God bless.
Part 2.
The Bema Seat deals with rewards for obedience, crowns, and the call of the Bride to the Marriage of the Lamb which occurs in the Father's house.
The Sheep and Goat Judgment is on the earth. Three separate parties are involved, and mortals are judged on the basis of their "works."
The Great White Throne occurs at the end of the Millennium, deals with the unsaved dead, and ushers in the New Heavens, the New Earth, and the New Jerusalem.
The Bema Seat Judgment is apparently the first order of business for the translated saints after the Harpazo. Everyone present will be "saved;" salvation is not the issue here. (That was concluded on a wooden cross erected in Judea about 2,000 years ago!) Everyone present will have been saved by the completed work of our Lord Jesus. The issue here is fruit-bearing, not salvation.
All are building on the same foundation, but with vastly differing results.
[ According to the grace of God which is given unto me, as a wise masterbuilder, I have laid the foundation, and another buildeth thereon. But let every man take heed how he buildeth thereupon. For other foundation can no man lay than that is laid, which is Jesus Christ.
1 Corinthians 3:10-11
"Let every man take heed:" A solemn warning. We are God's Building. We are only subcontractors.
The evaluation procedure is then detailed:
Now if any man build upon this foundation gold, silver, precious stones, [or] wood, hay, stubble;
1 Corinthians 3:12 (KJV)
Notice that there are six commodities in two groups, in descending order of worth. Three are products of a God's creative act, not growth or development; three are the result of natural growth and development (from our old nature?).
See Part 3.
Part 3.
The first three are permanent. The last three will perish under fire. (The largest load of hay or wood would be worth less than the smallest diamond.)
Every man's work shall be made manifest: for the day shall declare it, because it shall be revealed by fire; and the fire shall try every man's work of what sort it is.
1 Corinthians 3:13 (KJV)
Also, notice that the "work" is being appraised, not the person. It is the work being tested by fire, not the individual. All are building on the same foundation, but the results are vastly different.
If any man's work abide which he hath built thereupon, he shall receive a reward.
1 Corinthians 3:14 (KJV)
Rewards, not salvation, are the issue. Among these rewards, five crowns may be included: the Crown of righteousness, Crown of glory, Crown of life, incorruptible Crown, and Crown of rejoicing.
Salvation is invariably presented as a free gift; rewards are earned by works (fruit-bearing).
Salvation is a present possession; rewards are a future attainment given by Him at His Coming.
If any man's work shall be burned, he shall suffer loss: but he himself shall be saved; yet so as by fire.
1 Corinthians 3:15 (KJV)
So you have been saved: what have you done with it?
That which is done for sake of personal gain, popularity, influence, or its impression on the world, will be for naught.
See Part 4.
AMEN Brother David 921:
As God shines light into darkness we are always repenting of the beliefs of the flesh and growing in the grace of God.
I believe as you keep studying and God keeps teaching you, you will keep growing in truth.
I believe you will realize that death of unbelievers is not ETERNAL; but for a specified time, he presently is gathering the priest ONLY; into the kingdom of God, then he will resurrect ALL flesh that has died in unbelief back to their flesh and blood bodies, they will be judged by Christ and his priest and brought to TRUTH, that is the second death describe in Revelation.
Romans 8:19 For the earnest expectation of the creature WAITETH for the MANIFESTATION of the Sons of God.
They died in unbelief and are wanting in the grave, for the Sons of God to be gather to judge the world.
Romans 8:21 For the creature itself ALSO (second resurrection) shall be DELIVERED from the bondage of corruption (death and the grave) into the GLORIOUS liberty of the children of God (through judgement).
1 Corinthians 3:15 If any man's WORK shall be burned, he shall suffer loss: but he himself shall be save, YET as by FIRE (judgement).
Isaiah 26:9 ...when thy JUDGEMENTS are in the earth, the inhabitants SHALL LEARN righteousness.
1 Corinthians 15:28 When God has put all thing under Christ, GOD will be ALL in ALL.
Ephesians 1:23 Which is his body, the fullness of him that filleth ALL in ALL.
God bless you.
I would like to say that I don't do any grumbling or complaining; but alas then I would be lying. Thankfully anything but blasphemy against the Spirit can be forgiven. As Jesus pointed out to the self-righteous Pharisees; these bad fruits come from within. And 2 Peter 2:21 makes it clear that it is better not to have known the truth than to become reprobate. The blood of Christ is our only hope as Jeremiah 17:9 shows how sick the heart is.
There are Post Millennialists who dispute this; but I don't believe anyone from the church age who is a believer will be at the Great White Throne Judgment. I DO have the opinion that since the verse indicates that those who aren't in the Book of Life are going to the lake of fire; there is room for those who physically survive the Millennial period to go through that as saved people and hence be translated into heaven without dying.
In any event; 1 Corinthians 3:15 indicates that one can make it into heaven and suffer loss. That would be analogous to losing rewards as Revelation 3:11 warns. Paul indicates how we run for the prize. Only a few gain great rewards; as would be indicated by those making 100 fold as opposed to 30 fold returns or others ( Mark 4:20). We should not be confined to just the saved and lost divisions when scripture gives us admonitions for certain crowns that those who persevere; are martyred or are pastors as well as other situations are given for faithfulness.
Matthew 6:19-21 shows us that our treasure is to be in heaven. And that means that He must trust us with earthly riches as well ( Luke 16:10-12) as a test; a prerequisite for heavenly riches. Our brothers in Christ that we support in the ministry will be able to enjoy the harvest with us (see John 4:37). That and personal witnessing are components of fulfilling the Great Commission to finish well.
We must be about the work of the LORD, making disciples as we called to do in Matthew 28: 18-20.
As GOD is not willing that anyone should perish, 1 Peter 3:9, we must be encouraged and plant the seed, water where we can so that the LORD GOD will give the increase. 1 Corinthians 3:6
The time is at hand where all saints are called to duty and reach out, pray up, and tell to all the salvation available in the gospel of the LORD JESUS CHRIST. Romans 10: 9-12; Acts 4:10-12.
GOD bless all on this platform and praise the LORD on this Resurrection Sunday, 2023. GOD to shine HIS face on all, and be gracious as we await HIS coming.
WE are saved yet by FIRE ---- 1 Corinthians 3:13
Our God is a consuming FIRE ---- Hebrews 12:29
God is the WORD --- the word is GOD ---- John 1:1
I will baptise YOU with the HOLY GHOST and FIRE
You are BORN AGAIN by the WORD of GOD
Every time we read and study the WORD we are being judged and baptised with the FIRE OF THE LORD
FIRE is the judgement of GOD
Psalms 37:28 For the Lord loveth JUDGEMENT ....
2 Corinthians 5:10 .... we all must appear before he judgement seat .....
1 Peter 4:17 For the TIME IS COME that JUDGEMENT must begin at the HOUSE of the LORD
Hebrews 3:6 But Christ --- the WORD --- the SEED ---- the FIRE ---who is a son over his OWN HOUSE, whose House we are ...
The WORD of GOD is the FIRE OF GOD
And they were CAST ALIVE into the lake of fire --- the JUDGING WORD'S of GOD ----
You are save and born again by FIRE and WATER --- the living fire and the living water ---- the LAKE of FIRE ----
God bless you.
Note: I can't find the prequel as it were to this thread; so the audience may be limited. I may get into further discussion on the main discussion area but will try to sum things up here.
A major issue here that I have opened the "can of worms" on is; in regard to just who is identified as those dressed in white garments which were made that way through blood ( Rev. 7:14 referring to robes). It certainly can be expected that the witness of the 144,000 will bring many to faith and willing martyrdom. Other verses referring those whose garments were made white make verses such as Revelation 3:4; and Zechariah 3:3 be contrasted with Ephesians 5:27. For if some in Laodicea are naked among other things; surely anyone with a garment in God's presence is saved; although it is much like Jude 1:23 being saved as though through the fire; or 1 Corinthians 3:15 where one suffers loss and not much remains after their works are burned up by and large. In other words I would argue that to have a garment in the first place we are saved; if we allow sin to spot it then there are certain ramifications; including what I propose as missing the reward of a rapture if indeed it is more than just a salvation prerequisite. I would strongly suggest in these last days; there is little fruit being produced; and the Lord of the harvest is looking for it. He will either purge us to produce more fruit ( John 15:2) or as the same verse indicates we are not His child (producing no fruit) and are eventually cut off. Again; we need to broaden our scope and see those who are unbelievers; those judged more harshly for hearing and rejecting the truth; lukewarm believers and those who are producing much fruit. We must as Hebrews suggest; believe God is a rewarder of those things done for Him ( Heb. 11:6). We also should pay attention to those seeking a better country ( Heb. 11:16) of those who willingly gave up their lives for this.
We see in the inception of the Psalm in the first 4 verses characteristics of those which are of a "broken and contrite" spirit as Psalm 51 also describes. There is a "poor and needy" attitude (verse 2) and an attitude of submission as a servant (see verses 2 and 4). Finally; we see the characteristic of mercy in verse 3 as there apparently is a daily petition of crying to God.
The concept of trust in verse 2 is something that should be pondered more frequently as our attitude there affects how confident we are to God being faithful to meet our needs as well as working all things to the good for those who love Him (see Romans 8:28).
These characteristics allow us to converse and plead with God to attend to our requests (verse 6) and to answer in the day of trouble (verse 7). This is contrasted with such verses as Micah 3:4 and others which show the Lord will not hear the cry of the wicked in the day of their calamity because they are trying to avoid the consequences of their sins and sadly are too late for His saving Grace. Therefore; we must heed to not blowing God off; thinking that His patience will endure until we decide we are ready to "accept" Him. Salvation involves a relationship on HIS TERMS and according to His sovereign will and plans; of which we only can see a glimpse. These stipulations also are predicated on worshipping the true God (verse 8) and not the idols that other nations extol at their own peril ( Judges 16:29). In that story Sampson was shown in the end to know the Lord but reminds us of 1 Corinthians 3:12-15 of those who suffer loss of reward due to sinful living. The wicked there; nonetheless died in the midst of idol worship which should be a strong warning against any false religions today.
Paul and Silas's jailer asked them in ACTS 16:30 ..."Sirs, what must I do to be saved?" Their answer was as simple as this in ACTS 16:31 ..."Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, and you will be saved..." Simple as that.
Linda, you must believe in your heart and you will be saved. Simple as that. Take hold of that and trust God to show you the way to live in daily devotions: prayer, singing, reading and studying the Bible, and in doing for others. Seek out your pastor or a strong Christian that you trust to mentor you. Read the Gospel of John which concerns the deity of Christ. Study the Word to grow from a simple understanding of the Word (the milk) so that one day you will understand the harder things (meat).
1 Peter 2:2 "As newborn babes, desire the sincere milk of the word, that ye may grow thereby:"
1 Corinthians 3:2 "I have fed you with milk, and not with meat: for hitherto ye were not able to bear it, neither yet now are ye able."
Scripture; of course is our guide to all truth ( 2 Tim. 3:16). The overarching theme of the Bible is God's big picture from the Creation to the downfall of man; to final restoration of both body and soul of mankind; as well as nature and in the end the whole universe. We certainly can look at God putting Satan on a string who puts men on a string. When our identity is in Christ as His adopted sons and daughters ( Romans 8:14-17 etc) then we are part of the whole army of God and hence we shall rule and reign with Christ someday ( 2 Tim. 2:12; and parts of Revelation). We are part of those who are of the great "cloud of witnesses" ( Hebrews 12:1 which summarizes Hebrews 11 the "heroes" of the faith. What is done to us in some sense is done to Christ Himself ( Matt. 25:40). Whoever destroys the Temple of God will himself be destroyed ( 1 Corinthians 3:17); and blessed are those saints who die in the Lord ( Psalm 115:16; again see Revelation)
Hence; death itself is to be something looked forward to ( Philippians 1:23). It is indeed the "last enemy that shall be destroyed" ( 1 Cor. 15:26). In the meantime; as Paul also stated "I die daily" ( 1 Cor. 15:31). In Christ we can appreciate the experience of a slow death of the outer man so that the inner man can reach glorification. Keep in mind that it is the health and vitality of our soul that counts for eternity; all men will be Resurrected but it is the TYPE of resurrection that is important.
None of this; certainly takes away from the wisdom that we should have in regard to avoiding problems when we are able and it doesn't contradict God's plans for us; or of course for troubles that result from our own sin ( James 1:14-15). May it be that it won't happen to us as believers but sadly that's what it takes for some ( 1 Cor. 11:30 for the extreme example of an early earthly demise in certain cases). Better saved through the fire than not at all ( 1 Cor 3:15
Part 12.
Obviously, this is not evangelism at all. Rather it is judgment that is going to come upon this earth.
This is the scriptural picture of harvest.
Did the apostle Paul say that he was harvesting? In the Corinthian church there were divisions on several subjects. One of the problems was that some of them liked Apollos better than they liked Paul, and some liked Simon Peter more than they liked either one of the other two. Over this they were dividing the church - which was wrong. To divide churches on the basis of personalities is always wrong. Listen to Paul as he deals with this matter in his first letter to the Corinthians:
Who, then, is Paul, and who is Apollos, but ministers by whom ye believed, even as the Lord gave to every man? ( 1 Corinthians 3:5)
Now see if Paul understood that he was out harvesting:
I have planted, Apollos watered, but God gave the increase. So, then, neither is he that planteth anything, neither he that watereth, but God that giveth the increase. Now he that planteth and he that watereth are one; and every man shall receive his own reward according to his own labor. ( 1 Corinthians 3:6-8)
Paul said that he was planting the Word. All we can do is plant. It is the Holy Spirit who gives the increase.
You see, sowing seed is a picture of Scripture. My business is sowing seed. What is your business? And, by the way, how is business? Are you sowing seed in this world? This is our business today.
Now let us understand something else very clearly. If you sow seed, there will be a harvest. The psalmist speaks of this:
He that goeth forth and weepeth, bearing precious seed, shall doubtless come again with rejoicing, bringing his sheaves with him. ( Psalm 126:6)
See Part 12.
The portion is in 2 Timothy 2:17-19: "And their word will eat as doth a canker: of whom is Hymenaeus and Philetus; Who concerning the truth have erred, saying that the resurrection is past already; and overthrow the faith of some. Nevertheless the foundation of God standeth sure, having this seal, The Lord knoweth them that are his. And, Let every one that nameth the name of Christ depart from iniquity."
These two named persons could be representative of those who have 'departed from the faith': in this case, they not only taught incorrectly but continued to do so, causing many to err from the Truth & even have their faith compromised. And of course, there will be others, having believed & followed the Lord, but have been persuaded & led away by the prince of this World, preferring the world's offerings more than the sacrificial Love of God & His Son ( 1 John 2:15).
But "the foundation of God standeth sure, having this seal...". As the old hymn goes: 'the Church's one foundation is Jesus Christ her Lord..." seen also in 1 Corinthians 3:11; and we learn from 2 Timothy 2:19 that not only is Christ's Church firmly established according to God's great Plan, but those who are the Church (sealed by God's Spirit) are truly His - 'AND THE LORD KNOWS THEM THAT ARE HIS'. Every message from the NT writers to the believers (those who 'name the Name of Christ'), that they were to be living carefully & depart from all iniquity. The Apostle Peter says it well in 2 Peter 1:8-11: "...give diligence to make your calling and election sure: for if ye do these things, ye shall never fall...".
We can never judge another's salvation. but we can encourage all to pursue holiness & leave the rest to the Lord.
The Apostles lais the foundation in which we are to build upon.
Jesus is the Cornerstone. ( In building the Cornerstone is the first and most important part of the foundation. The rest of the building depends on It's perfection. afterwards the foundation is layed. (THE APOSTLES)
Then the comes the building. (US.)
Once the building has started there is no need of another foundation. This is what Christ was saying in Matthew 16:18. " upon this rock I will build my church; and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it."
HE was speaking of himself referencing Peters answer. ( Matthew 16:16 "Thou art the Christ, the Son of the living God.
Ephesians 2:19-22. Now therefore ye are no more strangers and foreigners, but fellowcitizens with the saints, and of the household of God;
And are built upon the FOUNDATION OF THE APOSTLES AND PROPHETS, Jesus Christ himself being the chief CORNER STONE;
In whom all the building fitly framed together groweth unto an holy temple in the Lord:
In whom YE ALSO ARE BUILDED TOGETHER FOR AN HABITATION of God through the Spirit.
Also see.
1 Corinthians 3:10-11 (KJV) According to the grace of God which is given unto me, as a wise masterbuilder, I have laid the foundation, and another buildeth thereon. But let every man take heed how he buildeth thereupon.
For other foundation can no man lay than that is laid, which is Jesus Christ.
God bless.
"Thus saith the LORD of hosts; Consider your ways. Go up to the mountain, and bring wood, and build the house(of God); and I will take pleasure in it, and I will be glorified, saith the LORD. Ye looked for much, and, lo, it came to little; and when ye brought it home, I did blow upon it. Why? saith the LORD of hosts. Because of mine house that is waste, and ye run every man unto his own house. Therefore the heaven over you is stayed from dew, and the earth is stayed from her fruit."
1 Corinthians 3:16, "Know ye not that ye are the temple of God, and that the Spirit of God dwelleth in you?"
1 Corinthians 6:19, "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?"
Ephesians 2:19-21, "Now therefore ye are no more strangers and foreigners, but fellowcitizens with the saints, and of the household of God. And are built upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Jesus Christ himself being the chief corner stone; In whom all the building fitly framed together groweth unto an holy temple in the Lord: In whom ye also are builded together for an habitation of God through the Spirit."