Hi Symone63. You must be referring to some other teaching (e.g. Roman Catholicism) which maintains Mary's perpetual virginity. If you are, then the Scriptures are replete with verses to show that after Jesus was born to Mary, then Mary gave birth to other children (sons & daughters), but Mary was indeed a virgin when the Holy Spirit placed this Godly Seed into her, so that God could appear unto men in the flesh in the Person of Jesus, as only God could make the full, acceptable, & permanent payment for mankind sins ( 1 Timothy 2:16; 1 John 3:16; John 15:13).
You can look at the following Scriptures to show that Jesus did have siblings, albeit half-siblings now by both Joseph & Mary. Matthew 12:46,47; Matthew 13:55,56; Mark 6:3; John 2:12; John 7:3,5,10; Acts 1:14; 1 Corinthians 9:5; Galatians 1:19.
In reading I am reminded of the contrast between Paul's words and words some Christians say.
Word of God through Paul: "Know ye not that they which run in a race run all, but one receiveth the prize? So run, that ye may obtain." 1 Corinthians 9:24 KJV
Man's doctrine: "Don't run, because you already have the prize. It's bad to put effort into following God, because my pastor says that's legalism and obeying God's law is bad and pleasing God is bad."
James 2:14-26 "...faith, if it hath not works, is dead..."
Man's doctrine: "nah, ignore that verse, cause I'm told all good works are 'bad'. Bad works are ok though since you're already forgiven."
Hebrews 10:26 "For if we sin wilfully after that we have received the knowledge of the truth, there remaineth no more sacrifice for sins,"
Man's doctrine: "just ignore this verse, but lets cherry pick something else and focus on that instead."
Matthew 24:13 "But he that shall endure unto the end, the same shall be saved."
Man's doctrine: "Nope, you're already saved right now, not later. So you don't have to endure anything or do anything whatsoever. Just do whatever feels good then rationalize it by saying that's the spirit doing it, not your sinful flesh."
Hebrews 10:36 "For ye have need of patience, that, after ye have done the will of God, ye might receive the promise."
Man's doctrine: "Nah, ignore that verse too. You already have the promise and prize. You don't need to do anything."
"But glory, honour, and peace, to every man that worketh good, to the Jew first, and also to the Gentile:" Romans 2:10 KJV
Man's doctrine: "No, just ignore. Good is bad, but bad is fine, because salvation."
Jude 1:4 "For there are certain men crept in unawares, who were before of old ordained to this condemnation, ungodly men, turning the grace of our God into lasciviousness, and denying the only Lord God, and our Lord Jesus Christ."
Thank you Rainwalker. You are correct, that the same word, 'adokimos' is used in relation to 'reprobate or castaway'. And this word gives the definitions as 'failing to pass the test, unapproved, counterfeit'. So we see a number of meanings that can be given, whether a test is given & one fails it, or to the other, of one being a counterfeit.
Thus if one feels that 1 Corinthians 9:27 might be Paul indicating that if he fails to keep his body (his flesh) under subjection, that when he preaches to others, then God would cast him away; could he then just be a failure, or incur God's disapproval, or even actually be a counterfeit Christian to be relegated to a destiny with other unbelievers?
Then do verses such as Romans 1:28, 2 Timothy 3:8, or Titus 1:16 apply also to Paul if he neglected to keep his body under subjection? And if Paul is deemed to be a castaway (i.e. having lost his salvation), does this then open the door to the Lord's failure to call & appoint His primary apostle to the Gentiles? But as we know, Paul didn't let the flesh or the Devil overcome him - he remained clear in conscience & faithful to his Lord; and this power, could it have come from within, i.e. the Holy Spirit in him, Who helps those endued with the Spirit, to not only do as Paul did, but also to be confident that He will indeed keep them from falling & be presented faultless before the Throne?
It's for such questions & verses in the NT, that confirm to my heart that God makes no mistakes in calling, redeeming, justifying & sealing His children. Readers of those passages will have to satisfy their own hearts & minds as to how to understand the different word usages for 'castaway or reprobate'.
And wishes to you too Mark & your family at this time of Thanksgiving. You've shared a few Scriptures, which I will address.
Philippians 2:12,13. The apostle was concerned for the Church's behavior: vv 2-4 (disagreements, unloving, discord, striving & not esteeming). And of course, he gives the supreme example of the Mind of Christ in his Coming in the form of a Servant. So Paul goes on to write (v12), 'therefore as you have obeyed me in the past, not just when I'm around but now when I'm not with you, work out (put into practise/into operation) what your salvation has brought you, and do so in trembling & fear (in all diligence & seriousness)': my paraphrasing. "work out your own salvation" is the big question here. If it were to 'find your own way to God', or 'now that you are saved, make all effort to remain saved', then I don't believe that was Paul's teaching. As one Bible teacher often preached, "you have been given the gift of Salvation, now work it out in your life", i.e. 'be constantly in step with the Spirit, being humble before God, scrutinizing your life, keeping short accounts with Him; you can't add anymore to your salvation, or else it's no more of Grace but of works, so be diligent to not be slack but mindful of God's great Grace & your position in Christ'.
"His Faith". I did mean, God's Faith given to man to believe & to be exercised with. Ephesians 2:8,9; Romans 12:3, are good examples - the Gift of God given to us is 'Grace AND Faith', for man's faith is incapable of apprehending the fullness of Christ's Sacrifice at the Cross for him & being exercised to please God.
1 Corinthians 9:27. A 'castaway' what Paul was referring to, was that he would be disqualified from this high calling if he was hypocritical by preaching salvation through Jesus & the power of that Risen Life, & yet be undisciplined in dealing with the appeals of his flesh. In this case, he would have failed - and maybe removed from ministry, even from earthly life itself. GBU
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;)
Once again; the verse "the fear of God is the beginning of wisdom" is a necessary verse to quote and is found in Proverbs as well as at least a couple places in Psalms. Assuming that there is a genuine conversion needs to be in word and deed. Confessing with our mouth must be accompanied by believing in our heart ( Romans 10:9-10). Believing in our heart must involve; of course a heart change as Ezekiel 36:26 indicates. Evidence of that is an understanding that as sinners we are coming from being ENEMIES of God (i.e. the enmity is in both directions) as Romans 5:10 indicates. True faith understands the painful sacrifice of Christ to pay the redemption through the atonement which only His blood could do in our behalf. Obedience accompanies true love for God as John 14:15 indicates. RECOGNITION that we are crucified with Christ ( Galatians 2:20) means that our new nature is now having new affections and the old one is something which we no longer find our "default" mode. We are beyond wanting to avoid sin because of the consequences but because we recognize that we are offending a Holy God who dwells in us ( 2 Cor. 5:1; and apparently the meaning implicit in John 1:14 where He dwells in us. True salvation never brings contentment with sin; we may fall away but as Proverbs says in chapter 24; verse 16 he rises again; but it is not so for the wicked. We are saved by grace but always have potential to sin and a true believer will be as Paul was cognizant and wary of anything that will get in the way until the end of this earthly existance ( Philippians 3:12-14). This is like 1 Corinthians 9:24 in striving to gain the prize.
Another related situation is that a true believer recognizes that rewards can be attained or lost according to Revelation 3:11. Realizing that we can enter heaven but as through the fire suffering loss ( 1 Cor. 3:15) shows salvation is the beginning of the journey of a truly saved person
Good evening and morning! A couple of meditations.
1 Corinthians 9:10 - 11 "Or saith he it altogether for our sakes? For our sakes, no doubt, this is written: that he that ploweth should plow in hope; and that he that thresherh in hope should be partaker of his hope.
If we have sow unto you spiritual things, is it a great thing we shall reap your carnal things?
If others be partakers of this power over you, are not we rather? Nevertheless we have not used this power; but suffer all things, lest we should hinder the gospel of Christ.
Do you not know that they which minister about the holy things live of the things of the temple? and they which wait at the altar are partakers with the altar?"
Galatians 5:5- 8 " For we through the Spirit wait for the Hope of righteousness by faith.
For in Jesus Christ neither circumcision availeth any thing, nor uncircumcision; but faith which worketh by love.
Ye did run well; who did hinder you that ye should not obey the truth?
This persuasion cometh not of him that calleth you."
Timothy was raised hearing Old Testament Scriptures ( II Timothy 3:14-15).
He joined Paul, along with Silas and Luke, during second missionary trip ( Acts 16:3).
Paul had Timothy circumcised so that he might have the freedom to preach the gospel in Jewish synagogues ( Acts 16:3; I Corinthians 9:20). He could not do that unless he was circumcised. And of course, Titus (another Gentile), he was not circumcised by Paul, and he even went to Jerusalem with Paul to attend the Jerusalem council.
And Paul refused to have him circumcised because he wasn't doing it out of the necessity of keeping the law, but as Paul says in 1 Corinthians 9:20, that whatever he does, he does for the purpose of reaching people for Christ.
So, when he had Timothy circumcised, it was because he knew that he would be in the Jewish synagogues and amongst the Jews, and they would not receive anything that Timothy had to say unless he was circumcised.
And by the way, a person is considered Jewish if your mother is Jewish and your father is not. You are considered Jewish as long as your mother is. If the father is Jewish, but the mother is not, you're not Jewish.
So, Timothy was accepted as a Jewish person, and he would be in the synagogues, but he was not circumcised, so Paul had him circumcised. Timothy was ordained by Paul and the Presbytery ( I Timothy 4:14; II Timothy 1:6). He accompanies Paul on his third missionary trip ( Acts 19:22; Acts 20:4; II Corinthians 1:1, 19).
I'd like to participate in this discussion. My problem though is that I can not clearly understand your posts, partly because of the language you are using and partly of the complexity of the thoughts you are putting down. So I cannot really understand what you really believe, a secured salvation, a non secured salvation or somewhere in between?
My belief is that the gospel must be presented in simplicity, in an order and with with clear statements/meanings. So I will try to put my belief forward.
I would like to present (and I've done that before) what people in NT believed about their salvation. And first of all, Paul the apostle. Did he believe that his salvation was secured till his departure from this world or didn't he?
In 1 Corinthians 9:24-27 he writes,
"24Know ye not that they which run in a race run all, but one receiveth the prize? So run, that ye may obtain. 25And 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. 26I therefore so run, not as uncertainly; so fight I, not as one that beateth the air: 27But 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."
Here Paul talks about a race and the price given to the winner which is the incorruptible crown. What is this race and what is this crown? Obviously the race is our live's course and the price is the final entrance into the Kingdom of God in Heaven, in other words God and Heaven. Paul advices believers in Corinth to strive, to fight like an athlete does so to end that race/fight. He even sounds like he is very much concerned that it is a possibility for him to loose what he has been given if he does not run the race properly. Obviously his words are not the words of a man who is certain about his final salvation.
In his epistle to Philippians he talks again about the same race.
Hello, thanks for sharing but that's not what God says in His word.
What scripture verse do you claim to be the source of your idea that faith is a result of salvation?
And what scripture verse do you cite to claim that you're saved now before you're even judged?
Paul said the one verse you're citing, but did you notice that Paul also warned ( 1 Cor 4:14) Christians to obey and not stray from the faith. God gives you that choice- he will allow you to commit despicable evil as we see people do every day, as is covered by the news. Christians also leave the faith, as evidenced by those we know in person and those forum groups like on Reddit where they talk about it. To deny this reality is to deny truth. Did God cause them to leave the faith? No, people did using their own freewill and bad choices. They will not be saved if they are not following Christ. Not all Christians will be "saved" on judgment day.
I don't know if you believe in freewill or not, that God is forcing you to type things on this site you don't want to say of if you believe you are doing it. If God forces you to eat things you don't want to eat like Taco Bell or ice cream. But about freewill of course there's only one truth- either its true or not, not both. And its true for me, so are people claiming its not true for them? And is that God speaking through them that its not true or is that their own doing and how can they 100% prove they are not in control of their bodies whatsoever? Some may be deceived and use this as justification to sin against God and perhaps some may be dishonest about it.
1 Cor 4:5 says to judge nothing before the Lord comes and then the Lord will then judge us, but people seem to like judging themselves as saved so some can then make excuses to disobey God.
Romans 15:5 Paul says we need endurance. He warns us, says to endure, and 1 Corinthians 9:24 says to run the race so to win the prize. The refutes the popular narrative.
1 Peter 1:5 - "...salvation ready to be revealed in the last time.” Hebrews 10:26, James 2:14-26, Matthew 7:21-23
Now one may think, "if I devote myself to a mission then I don't have to work, the church should provide for me and my family". Is this right? What does the Bible says about that?
It is true that God gives to people who are missioners for Him the right not to work but live with what the church provides for them, so that they are not distracted from their mission, it is not possible to go travelling and work at the same time, it is very hard to work and supervise a church at the same time. There is hardly enough time for both. Paul deals with that extensively in 1 Corinthians 9:1-14.
But through ages a major problem has been created in Christianity. A right that was given by God to His people to help them to work for Him, has been taken advantage of by many to make it a profession and live from it. There are a lot of people who choose it as a profession. There are also many that they make millions from that. They often claim that God provides them with plenty of money for their mission to become easier. And they don't stop asking from believers persistently even by using/twisting God's Word, the tiths, which tiths are not valid now in New Testament.
The same problem seems to have occured in Paul's time. So what Paul decided to do was to deny that right and work with His own hands for him and his accompanions, 1 Cor 9:15-18. He also suggests that to the elders in Ephessus, Acts 20:32-35. But it also seems that many times he accepted help from churches, since it wasn't always easy to find a job in those places he travelled to. And many times he was left hungry and thirsty... 1 Cor 4:11-12.
Hello Bplumley. We read about this in 1 Corinthians 9:24,25: "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."
As you've read the chapter, the Apostle Paul wrote about how specific his ministry was to both Jew & Gentile - that he was doing everything possible to evangelize them & win them to Christ (v22: "...that I might by all means save some).
Then he encourages the Corinthian believers to also do likewise: 'to run the race (the race of living the Life of Christ in them & in service to Him), so that they might win the prize.' Here, Paul alludes to the Corinthian/Isthmian games which his readers would have been familiar with. The athletes had only one thing on their minds: to gain the coveted prize (the crown of special leaves placed on the head or neck, garlanding the winner). But how long did the wreath last for? In a few days, the leaves dried & withered, and in a few months or years, the winner's name might also be forgotten. This Paul called the 'corruptible crown'. Even though the athletes maintained a heavy regimen of training throughout the year in preparation, they did it all for a momentary period of glory & recognition.
For Paul though, and for the believer, our crown (the incorruptible crown), is that which is given by the Lord Himself to His children who have struggled & won the battle against the onslaughts of our enemy, Satan. Paul said "But I keep under my body, and bring it into subjection...", which means that he exercised great discipline in his Christian walk & singular focus on his calling to evangelize. This he willingly did, knowing that his reward lay with Jesus, a crown incorruptible, and not like what man might gain on Earth.
For the crowns (or, recognition) mentioned, see: 1 Thessalonians 2:19; 2 Timothy 4:8; 1 Peter 5:4; James 1:12.
We as believers receive an incorruptible crown. It says in 1 Corinthians 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."
So, every man that strives for the mastery, (or discipline), is temperate (disciplined and controlled) in all things.
I'm not sure if you've ever been in sports, but if you have, you know that unless you have a natural ability, you have to be disciplined in what you eat, how much sleep you get, and how much you exercise.
Now they do it, (and he's talking about the colosseum games), they do it to obtain a corruptible crown;
They get this little wreath that weaves around your head and dies out in a couple of days. That's a corruptible crown. They go through all of that just for that?
But we, (believers) an incorruptible crown. This is eternity with Christ and the crown He has to give. He gives us an incorruptible crown. He gives us eternal life.
Hello Hope. The Apostle Paul in 1 Corinthians 9 speaks about his rights as an apostle (vv 1-14), yet not using them to take advantage of the Church (v 15) or to detract from his calling to preach (v16). Then he writes about how he fulfilled his calling (i.e. not looking for an earthly reward; being a servant to all he ministered to; identifying with both Jew & Gentile; & getting alongside the weak in spirit & conscience: vv 17-23).
That was Paul's introduction to what it took for him to strive for the crown that lay before him. His ultimate crown was that which would be given to him by the Lord, whether the Crown of Glory, Crown of Rejoicing, Crown of Life, or Crown of Righteousness. But he knew to receive the Lord's best, he would need to be disciplined in both life & service to others with the Gospel.
And so, in verses 24 to 27, Paul sees his life & ministry as that of a foot race (a hard, tiring race to make it first to the finish line). Paul may well have been thinking of the Isthmian games which were held every two years in Corinth, & an event the Corinthians would be very familiar with. So, he uses those games to speak about the high state of discipline & rigorous training that athletes have to go through if there would be any real chance of them gaining a win. But those athletes aim for an earthly crown (probably a wreath or an official city honor or statue). This was their time of (man's) glory which would fade away in due course.
But what Paul was striving for was for an incorruptible crown: one that the Lord gives to those who have lived their lives & had served well for God's Glory. This honor doesn't fade away & to get it requires the believer to be careful in their lives, disciplined, & living for the coming of the Lord. But Paul also saw that if his life & witness were hypocritical before others, the preaching of the Gospel would be meaningless & souls would be lost forever. Paul went all out for the Lord & he wanted the believers to do likewise.
" 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 CASTAWAY."
Phillipians 3:12-14
"Not as though I had already attained (the prize), either were already perfect: but I follow after, if that I MAY APPREHEND that for which also I am apprehended of Christ Jesus.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. I PRESS TOWARD THE MARK FOR THE PRIZE of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus."
Ephesians 5:3-6
"But fornication, and all uncleanness, or covetousness, let it not be once named among you, as becometh saints;Neither filthiness, nor foolish talking, nor jesting, which are not convenient: but rather giving of thanks.For this ye know, that no whoremonger, NOR UNCLEAN PERSON, nor covetous man, who is an idolater, HATH ANY INHERITANCE in the kingdom of Christ and of God."
Ezekiel 17:24
"But when the righteous turneth away from his righteousness, and committeth iniquity, and doeth according to all the abominations that the wicked man doeth, shall he live? All his righteousness that he hath done shall not be mentioned: in his trespass that he hath trespassed, AND IN HIS SIN THAT HE HATH SINNED, IN THEM SHALL HE DIE."
Matthew 25:1-12. The parable of the 10 virgins.
Matthew 25:14-30. The parable of the servants who were given the talents.
2 Timothy 2:15 is a powerful verse. If we do not learn how to rightly divide the word of truth, we will be lost understanding the chain of events from the time God brought the Hebrews from the Land of Egypt until The Christ Lord Jesus died on the cross up to our time today which is approximately 2,000 years. Honestly, we do not have time. As you all noticed the rapid days go by quickly as God says 2 Peter 3:8 and you see Psalms 2:1-12
I do not mind repeating to all that the Bible is a complete book Revelation 19:13 for us today to prepare ourselves and others. I pray all to be saved. We cannot have the people caught unaware of Matthew 24:37. To rightly divide is to know for us today what we need to do. So I will say that the 11 apostles messages are important for the physical Jews Matthew 10:5-7 at the end time; and there are verses in Matthew, Mark, Luke and John that pertains to a spiritual Christians of today.
God had chosen Paul to be His vessel so we can read and believe not in vain. Study the Book of Romans to Philemon because he was the Last and believe it or not the 12th Apostle Galatians 1:1, Acts 9:15, Acts 13:47, Acts 22:21, Roman's 11:13, Ephesians 3:8, 1 Timothy 2:7, Galatians 1:16. After Jesus died He says Hebrews 9:14-17. Then you are Ephesians 1:12-14, 2 Timothy 2:19 and 2 Corinthians 1:22. Therefore, 1 Corinthians 9:2 just like Romans 15:28. Ephesians 4:30 and sing Psalms 49:8, 111:9, 130:7. In conclusion my fellow-believers, Paul is sealed 1 Corinthians 9:2 by God to be our apostle today. Weneedtoputtheworkof Paul not in vain Galatians 6:11. Paul tells us Romans 2:16, Romans 16:25, 2 Timothy 2:8. And the gospel is 1 Corinthians 15:1-4. Then we are sealed Ephesians 1:13. Perhaps you are not understanding me because Revelation 18:4, Proverbs 20:1, Roman's 7:11, 1 Corinthians 6:9, 1 Corinthians 15:33, Galatians 6:7, 1 Timothy 2:14, 2 Timothy 3:13, Titus 3:3, and lastly Revelation 18:23. Psalm 37:1-40 then we meditate Psalms 27:1-3. Shalom/Agape.
Paul says in 1 Corinthians 9:27, But I keep under my body, and I bring it into subjection:
When he says I keep my body under, the Greek phrase is "I beat my body black and blue," boxing terms!
When you are disciplining your body for a contest, you're actually punishing your body and putting it through pain to get it ready.
To bring it into subjection, lest that by any means, when I have preached to others, I myself should be disqualified.
The word castaway is an athletic term that means disqualified.
Can you imagine the judge on the judges' stand, and after you worked for 6 months or whatever it is just to get that little crown for your head?
You want to beat everybody else and be in the best shape that you can, and the judge sees you make the turn and you cut into somebody else's lane. Disqualified!
Paul says I keep my body in subjection, so that after I preach to others, I'm not disqualified because of the actions of my flesh.
You see, there's two aspects about serving Christ. Number one, is the Spirit of Christ in us ministering to others, and the control of the flesh, so that that influence is not pushed away by people that have received Christ through us.
It happens all the time. We talk truth, but we act like everybody else does!
It could be both eternally lost and rejected of men. Romans 11:22 Behold therefore the goodness and severity of God: on them which fell, severity; but toward thee, goodness, if thou continue in his goodness: otherwise thou also shalt be cut off. I would consider "cut off" comparable to "castaway". Rev. 3:11 Behold, I come quickly: hold that fast which thou hast, that no man take thy crown. Both scriptures are talking about saved people.
Castaway: rejected, or disapproved of; that is, by men: the apostle's concern is, lest he should do anything that might bring a reproach on the Gospel; lest some corruption of his nature or other should break out, and thereby his ministry be justly blamed, and be brought under contempt; and so he be rejected and disapproved of by men, and become useless as a preacher: not that he feared he should become a reprobate, as the word is opposed to an elect person; or that he should be a castaway eternally, or be everlastingly damned; for he knew in whom he had believed, and was persuaded of his interest in the love of God, and that he was a chosen vessel of salvation, that could not be eternally lost:
I agree with your first sentence. To add, Jesus said "But he answered and said, I am not sent but unto the lost sheep of the house of Israel." Matthew 15:24 KJV. During Jesus Christ on earth He commanded His Disciples in Matthew 10:5 These twelve Jesus sent forth, and commanded them, saying, Go not into the way of the Gentiles, and into any city of the Samaritans enter ye not:
6 But go rather to the lost sheep of the house of Israel. Jesus was preaching the gospel of the Kingdom of Heaven. Had the Jews recognized their King..could of, would of, should of. But they killed their Messiah. Your second sentence is half correct. Jesus Christ had chosen Paul to be the twelfth apostle with a purpose to tell us Gentiles more detail what happened during his dispensation. The word dispensation can only be found 4X in Paul's epistles: 1 Corinthians 9:17
For if I do this thing willingly, I have a reward: but if against my will, a dispensation of the gospel is committed unto me.
Ephesians 3:2
If ye have heard of the dispensation of the grace of God which is given me to you-ward:
Colossians 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;
Ephesians 1:10
That in the dispensation of the fulness of times he might gather together in one all things in Christ, both which are in heaven, and which are on earth; even in him:
These verses proved to me that when Paul told us to "divide the word of truth" means that God speaks to different people in different times. Meaning Dispensation. Therefore, some verses of the Bible applies only to the Jews and only to Gentiles and some applies both to Jews and Gentiles in different times as "God, who at sundry times and in divers manners spake in time past unto the fathers by the prophets," Hebrews 1:1 KJV. Paul is our Apostle today. His dispensation of Grace is critical for today's salvation. 1 Corinthians 15:1-4. Agape.
Paul wrote two letters to Timothy who was pastoring the church in Ephesus. Timothy's name is mentioned 24 times in the New Testament. Timothy was from Lystra and he was saved during Paul's first missionary journey ( Acts 14:19-20; Acts 16:1-2)
His mother Eunice, and his grandmother Lois, were godly Jewish women. In fact, Timothy was taught the Old Testament scriptures since he was a little boy. So he has a scriptural background. Timothy was about 15-years-old when he first met Paul. And when Paul writes his letter to Timothy, he's approximately 35. So he has spent approximately 20 years with Paul in ministry learning.
Even though Timothy's mother and grandmother were godly Jewish women, his father was a pagan Greek. ( Acts 16:1; 2 Timothy 1:5). Timothy was raised hearing Old Testament Scriptures. ( 2 Timothy 3:14-15). He joined Paul, along with Silas and Luke, during second missionary trip. ( Acts 16:3).
Paul had Timothy circumcised so that he might have the freedom to preach the gospel in Jewish synagogues. ( Acts 16:3; 1 Corinthians 9:20). He could not do that unless he was circumcised. Timothy was ordained by Paul and the Presbytery. ( 1 Timothy 4:14; 2 Timothy 1:6). He accompanies Paul on his third missionary trip. ( Acts 19:22; Acts 20:4; 2 Corinthians 1:1, 1:19).
Timothy ministered in at least five churches as Paul's representative:
Timothy was with Paul during Paul's first imprisonment ( Philippians 1:1; Colossians 1:1; Philemon 1:1) and went to Philippi after Paul's release. ( Philippians 2:19-23). Timothy was around 35-years of age when Paul wrote I Timothy. Timothy also suffered imprisonment. ( Hebrews 13:23).
Malachi 3:10 Bring ye all the tithes into the storehouse, that there may be meat in mine house, and prove me now herewith, saith the LORD of hosts, if I will not open you the windows of heaven, and pour you out a blessing, that there shall not be room enough to receive it.
1 Corinthians 16:2 Upon the first day of the week let every one of you lay by him in store, as God hath prospered him, that there be no gatherings when I come.
1 Corinthians 9:6 - 11
1 Timothy 5:18 For the scripture saith, Thou shalt not muzzle the ox that treadeth out the corn. And, The labourer is worthy of his reward.
When you are hunting for a church - be sure you are looking for the truth. Read and study willing to except the Word. May the Lord Bless you
Your reference to including the 7th day weekly Sabbath in with the Mosaic sabbaths (plural) included in ordinances of the Law of Moses does not stand up to close scrutiny.
The italic of the 'days' in verse 16 emphasizes the plurality of the multiple sabbaths in the law of Moses which is distinct to the Moral 10 commandment law of God.
Most respectfully your reference to Colossians 2:14-17 is a mish mash including an implied reference to Hebrews chapters 10:1 and a misrepresentation of Colossians chapter 2's application only to the law of Moses..
The entire paragraph starting at Colossian 2:14 and ending in verse 17 clearly shows that the reference Paul is making is limited to the 'Handwriting of ordinances' which was contrary to us, nailing it to His cross'. The reference confirmed in verse 16 Let no man therefore judge you in meat, or in drink, or in respect of an holyday, or of the new moon, or of the sabbath days" is a clear reference to the law of Moses and limits this reference only to the Law of Moses and NOT the Moral 10 Commandment Law of God.
How do we know this for sure? Because the Law of Moses was:
Written by Moses using a scribe who wrote on paper using handwriting of The book - Deuteronomy 31:24
Contains the codes for ordinances & ceremonies (including feast & Holy days etc), sacrificial ceremony, health, civil laws, treatment of animals, treatment of slaves etc - Leviticus 18: 3 & 4, 1 Corinthians 9:9
Whereas the 10 commandment Moral of God makes no reference to Drinks, meat offerings, ordinances, new moons or an holy day and does not contain multiple sabbaths - but the Law of Moses contains ALL of these.
The reference you make to Colossians 2 verse 17 again confirms that this cannot refer to the Moral law of God and therefore cannot include the weekly sabbath as being nailed to the cross.
How so? Because as you say it was 'a shadow' - this shadow of a law concept links this scripture verse 17 with Hebrews 10:1
Hello, you will likely get different opinions on this, so my recommendation is to just read the Bible with an open heart and open mind and pray for wisdom and understanding before, during and after. There's a link on this site that says Become a Christian which has a lot of verses you can read and then read the entire chapters and books for broader context.
My interpretation of the scriptures is that if we decide to legitimately turn from our old evil ways and follow Jesus while intentionally trying to follow Him and avoid sin, then that process is being born again. John 3:3 It is the process of becoming new in Christ. I believe this is a huge commitment and a serious change in someone's direction in life. I think people who dismiss this as unimportant are at risk of not legitimately being born again. I think most Christians dismiss following Jesus as just a box to check so they can then go back to enjoing a life of sin (and inadvertantly following satan). Most people do this and most will go to hell. That is a fact that Jesus warned us of over and over. And much of the gospel are warnings to both nonbelievers and believers- especially Christians not taking Jesus seriously. Matthew 10:28.
I personally don't believe anyone is "saved" until we are judged, and I don't believe judgment day happens until Jesus returns. And I believe it will all happen on the same day, because it says 'day of judgment' over and over. Not days, or weeks, or years of judgment. This contradicts what a lot of people want to believe that they go instantly to heaven upon death.
So, my belief differs from popular Christian interpretations which says people are already "saved" if they respond to an altar call, or touch the TV and pray while at home, or invite Jesus "into your heart". These words aren't exactly found in the Bible from what I have discovered.
When I read about salvation it appears to be future tense- after judgment. Romans 10:9, 1 Peter 1:5. 1 Corinthians 9:24. God bless.
OK lets go back to the verse" the wage of sin is death but the gift of God is eternal life .."
What does that mean? That eternal life is unconditional? I don't think so. There is a condition for Jesus's blood to be available to you. That is to repent. As long as you are in an unrepentant condition Jesus's. Blood is not abailable to you. So a Christian shouldn't think that no matter what he does, no matter how he walks everything is OK. It's not OK. I don't mean that when you do a sin God is immediately ready to send you to hell, but the way you walk is risky. I think you understand what I am saying
OK lets go to Matthew 6:15 "But if ye forgive not men their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses." What do you make of that. If God doesn't forgive your sins , no problem at all? I think that thinking like you do one is in danger to consider that eternal life is ensured/secured no matter what he does, and that is risky.
Finally lets go to 1 Corinthians 9:25-27. Apostle Paul talks about himself as well. Pay attention to verse 27 " 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". That word castaway doesn't ring any bell?
O.K it is well understood that there is a difference in opinions here, I do respect yours but not accept it. Sorry brother, no offense meant.
Hebrews 10:26 "For if we sin wilfully after that we have received the knowledge of the truth, there remaineth no more sacrifice for sins,"
1 Peter 1:13 "...hope to the end for the grace that is to be brought unto you at the revelation of Jesus Christ;"
1 Peter 1:5 - "...salvation ready to be revealed in the last time."
Joshua 24:15 "choose you this day whom ye will serve"
John 14:15 "If ye love me, keep my commandments."
Matthew 12:32 "...but whosoever speaketh against the Holy Ghost, it shall not be forgiven him, neither in this world, neither in the world to come."
James 2:14-26 "...faith, if it hath not works, is dead..."
Jude 1:21 "KEEP YOURSELVES IN THE LOVE OF GOD, looking for the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ unto eternal life."
James 5:19-20 "BRETHREN, if any of YOU do ERR FROM THE TRUTH, and one convert him; Let him know, that he which converteth the sinner from the error of his way shall save a soul from death, and shall hide a multitude of sins.
James 2:19 "Thou believest that there is one God; thou doest well: the devils also believe, and tremble."
1 Corinthians 9:26-27 "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."
Hebrews 10:29
"Of how much sorer punishment, suppose ye, shall he be thought worthy, who hath trodden under foot the Son of God, and hath counted the blood of the covenant, wherewith he was sanctified, an unholy thing, and hath done despite unto the Spirit of grace?"
I do not know of verse in Psalms that says that, but in 1 Corinthians 9:16-18, the apostle Paul touches on this. In Verse 17, he says, "For if I do this thing willingly, (that is, voluntarily), I have (Present Tense), a reward:
There are many pastors and ministers that would probably disagree with this, but if they voluntarily and willingly wanted to be in ministry, and they get a paycheck for it, that would be their reward!
In Verse 18, he says what is my reward then? Verily that, when I preach the gospel, I may make the gospel of Christ without charge, so that I abuse not my authority in the gospel.
There are many people in the ministry that need to be challenged, especially those on the television that continuously say we need more money. I am often tempted to call in and tell these ministers to go out and get a job. Most of these ministers are pulling in a minimum $150,000 dollars a year, some much more, and their ministry is running out of money?
Well, I say go get a job! If you do that, your ministry saves $150,000, and you just continue to preach the gospel. If you're running out of money, go and sell one of your multi-million dollar homes or your private jet and use that money where it needs to be used, not on yourself.
But you know, that doesn't go over too well with these ministers! I have to wonder what their response would be if you were to ask them to preach the gospel free of charge, as Paul did.
A lot can be said about this topic Lets see what is written in the Gospel about it.
1 Corinthians 9:1-18.
Apostle Paul clearly states that God gave the right who they teach the Gospel to live from the Gospel. But Paul denied that privilege and worked with his own hands to meet his and his accompanions' needs although sometimes he accepted help from the churches he established. i.e Thessalonians.
Acts 20:32-35
During the meeting with the elders from Ephesus he suggests that they follow his example.
So yes the right to live from the church is given by God (but nowhere in the New Testament that right is defined as 10%, on the contrary everybody may give anything he wants, 2 Corinthians 9:7) but the best thing is to follow Paul's example.
In the congregation i attend, the bishop, the elders and the deacons have a job to live from and get nothing from the church. The members of the church give every Sunday anything they want and can to meet church's expences. 2 Corinthians 9:7
Finally being a bishop IS NOT AND SHOULD NOT BE A PROFFESION just like all the other ones to live from.
You can look at the following Scriptures to show that Jesus did have siblings, albeit half-siblings now by both Joseph & Mary. Matthew 12:46,47; Matthew 13:55,56; Mark 6:3; John 2:12; John 7:3,5,10; Acts 1:14; 1 Corinthians 9:5; Galatians 1:19.
Word of God through Paul: "Know ye not that they which run in a race run all, but one receiveth the prize? So run, that ye may obtain." 1 Corinthians 9:24 KJV
Man's doctrine: "Don't run, because you already have the prize. It's bad to put effort into following God, because my pastor says that's legalism and obeying God's law is bad and pleasing God is bad."
James 2:14-26 "...faith, if it hath not works, is dead..."
Man's doctrine: "nah, ignore that verse, cause I'm told all good works are 'bad'. Bad works are ok though since you're already forgiven."
Hebrews 10:26 "For if we sin wilfully after that we have received the knowledge of the truth, there remaineth no more sacrifice for sins,"
Man's doctrine: "just ignore this verse, but lets cherry pick something else and focus on that instead."
Matthew 24:13 "But he that shall endure unto the end, the same shall be saved."
Man's doctrine: "Nope, you're already saved right now, not later. So you don't have to endure anything or do anything whatsoever. Just do whatever feels good then rationalize it by saying that's the spirit doing it, not your sinful flesh."
Hebrews 10:36 "For ye have need of patience, that, after ye have done the will of God, ye might receive the promise."
Man's doctrine: "Nah, ignore that verse too. You already have the promise and prize. You don't need to do anything."
"But glory, honour, and peace, to every man that worketh good, to the Jew first, and also to the Gentile:" Romans 2:10 KJV
Man's doctrine: "No, just ignore. Good is bad, but bad is fine, because salvation."
Jude 1:4 "For there are certain men crept in unawares, who were before of old ordained to this condemnation, ungodly men, turning the grace of our God into lasciviousness, and denying the only Lord God, and our Lord Jesus Christ."
Man's doctrine: "Nope"
Are both genuinely following Jesus?
Thus if one feels that 1 Corinthians 9:27 might be Paul indicating that if he fails to keep his body (his flesh) under subjection, that when he preaches to others, then God would cast him away; could he then just be a failure, or incur God's disapproval, or even actually be a counterfeit Christian to be relegated to a destiny with other unbelievers?
Then do verses such as Romans 1:28, 2 Timothy 3:8, or Titus 1:16 apply also to Paul if he neglected to keep his body under subjection? And if Paul is deemed to be a castaway (i.e. having lost his salvation), does this then open the door to the Lord's failure to call & appoint His primary apostle to the Gentiles? But as we know, Paul didn't let the flesh or the Devil overcome him - he remained clear in conscience & faithful to his Lord; and this power, could it have come from within, i.e. the Holy Spirit in him, Who helps those endued with the Spirit, to not only do as Paul did, but also to be confident that He will indeed keep them from falling & be presented faultless before the Throne?
It's for such questions & verses in the NT, that confirm to my heart that God makes no mistakes in calling, redeeming, justifying & sealing His children. Readers of those passages will have to satisfy their own hearts & minds as to how to understand the different word usages for 'castaway or reprobate'.
Philippians 2:12,13. The apostle was concerned for the Church's behavior: vv 2-4 (disagreements, unloving, discord, striving & not esteeming). And of course, he gives the supreme example of the Mind of Christ in his Coming in the form of a Servant. So Paul goes on to write (v12), 'therefore as you have obeyed me in the past, not just when I'm around but now when I'm not with you, work out (put into practise/into operation) what your salvation has brought you, and do so in trembling & fear (in all diligence & seriousness)': my paraphrasing. "work out your own salvation" is the big question here. If it were to 'find your own way to God', or 'now that you are saved, make all effort to remain saved', then I don't believe that was Paul's teaching. As one Bible teacher often preached, "you have been given the gift of Salvation, now work it out in your life", i.e. 'be constantly in step with the Spirit, being humble before God, scrutinizing your life, keeping short accounts with Him; you can't add anymore to your salvation, or else it's no more of Grace but of works, so be diligent to not be slack but mindful of God's great Grace & your position in Christ'.
"His Faith". I did mean, God's Faith given to man to believe & to be exercised with. Ephesians 2:8,9; Romans 12:3, are good examples - the Gift of God given to us is 'Grace AND Faith', for man's faith is incapable of apprehending the fullness of Christ's Sacrifice at the Cross for him & being exercised to please God.
1 Corinthians 9:27. A 'castaway' what Paul was referring to, was that he would be disqualified from this high calling if he was hypocritical by preaching salvation through Jesus & the power of that Risen Life, & yet be undisciplined in dealing with the appeals of his flesh. In this case, he would have failed - and maybe removed from ministry, even from earthly life itself. GBU
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.
Once again; the verse "the fear of God is the beginning of wisdom" is a necessary verse to quote and is found in Proverbs as well as at least a couple places in Psalms. Assuming that there is a genuine conversion needs to be in word and deed. Confessing with our mouth must be accompanied by believing in our heart ( Romans 10:9-10). Believing in our heart must involve; of course a heart change as Ezekiel 36:26 indicates. Evidence of that is an understanding that as sinners we are coming from being ENEMIES of God (i.e. the enmity is in both directions) as Romans 5:10 indicates. True faith understands the painful sacrifice of Christ to pay the redemption through the atonement which only His blood could do in our behalf. Obedience accompanies true love for God as John 14:15 indicates. RECOGNITION that we are crucified with Christ ( Galatians 2:20) means that our new nature is now having new affections and the old one is something which we no longer find our "default" mode. We are beyond wanting to avoid sin because of the consequences but because we recognize that we are offending a Holy God who dwells in us ( 2 Cor. 5:1; and apparently the meaning implicit in John 1:14 where He dwells in us. True salvation never brings contentment with sin; we may fall away but as Proverbs says in chapter 24; verse 16 he rises again; but it is not so for the wicked. We are saved by grace but always have potential to sin and a true believer will be as Paul was cognizant and wary of anything that will get in the way until the end of this earthly existance ( Philippians 3:12-14). This is like 1 Corinthians 9:24 in striving to gain the prize.
Another related situation is that a true believer recognizes that rewards can be attained or lost according to Revelation 3:11. Realizing that we can enter heaven but as through the fire suffering loss ( 1 Cor. 3:15) shows salvation is the beginning of the journey of a truly saved person
1 Corinthians 9:10 - 11 "Or saith he it altogether for our sakes? For our sakes, no doubt, this is written: that he that ploweth should plow in hope; and that he that thresherh in hope should be partaker of his hope.
If we have sow unto you spiritual things, is it a great thing we shall reap your carnal things?
If others be partakers of this power over you, are not we rather? Nevertheless we have not used this power; but suffer all things, lest we should hinder the gospel of Christ.
Do you not know that they which minister about the holy things live of the things of the temple? and they which wait at the altar are partakers with the altar?"
Galatians 5:5- 8 " For we through the Spirit wait for the Hope of righteousness by faith.
For in Jesus Christ neither circumcision availeth any thing, nor uncircumcision; but faith which worketh by love.
Ye did run well; who did hinder you that ye should not obey the truth?
This persuasion cometh not of him that calleth you."
Timothy was raised hearing Old Testament Scriptures ( II Timothy 3:14-15).
He joined Paul, along with Silas and Luke, during second missionary trip ( Acts 16:3).
Paul had Timothy circumcised so that he might have the freedom to preach the gospel in Jewish synagogues ( Acts 16:3; I Corinthians 9:20). He could not do that unless he was circumcised. And of course, Titus (another Gentile), he was not circumcised by Paul, and he even went to Jerusalem with Paul to attend the Jerusalem council.
And Paul refused to have him circumcised because he wasn't doing it out of the necessity of keeping the law, but as Paul says in 1 Corinthians 9:20, that whatever he does, he does for the purpose of reaching people for Christ.
So, when he had Timothy circumcised, it was because he knew that he would be in the Jewish synagogues and amongst the Jews, and they would not receive anything that Timothy had to say unless he was circumcised.
And by the way, a person is considered Jewish if your mother is Jewish and your father is not. You are considered Jewish as long as your mother is. If the father is Jewish, but the mother is not, you're not Jewish.
So, Timothy was accepted as a Jewish person, and he would be in the synagogues, but he was not circumcised, so Paul had him circumcised. Timothy was ordained by Paul and the Presbytery ( I Timothy 4:14; II Timothy 1:6). He accompanies Paul on his third missionary trip ( Acts 19:22; Acts 20:4; II Corinthians 1:1, 19).
Hello Richard
I'd like to participate in this discussion. My problem though is that I can not clearly understand your posts, partly because of the language you are using and partly of the complexity of the thoughts you are putting down. So I cannot really understand what you really believe, a secured salvation, a non secured salvation or somewhere in between?
My belief is that the gospel must be presented in simplicity, in an order and with with clear statements/meanings. So I will try to put my belief forward.
I would like to present (and I've done that before) what people in NT believed about their salvation. And first of all, Paul the apostle. Did he believe that his salvation was secured till his departure from this world or didn't he?
In 1 Corinthians 9:24-27 he writes,
"24Know ye not that they which run in a race run all, but one receiveth the prize? So run, that ye may obtain. 25And 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. 26I therefore so run, not as uncertainly; so fight I, not as one that beateth the air: 27But 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."
Here Paul talks about a race and the price given to the winner which is the incorruptible crown. What is this race and what is this crown? Obviously the race is our live's course and the price is the final entrance into the Kingdom of God in Heaven, in other words God and Heaven. Paul advices believers in Corinth to strive, to fight like an athlete does so to end that race/fight. He even sounds like he is very much concerned that it is a possibility for him to loose what he has been given if he does not run the race properly. Obviously his words are not the words of a man who is certain about his final salvation.
In his epistle to Philippians he talks again about the same race.
What scripture verse do you claim to be the source of your idea that faith is a result of salvation?
And what scripture verse do you cite to claim that you're saved now before you're even judged?
Paul said the one verse you're citing, but did you notice that Paul also warned ( 1 Cor 4:14) Christians to obey and not stray from the faith. God gives you that choice- he will allow you to commit despicable evil as we see people do every day, as is covered by the news. Christians also leave the faith, as evidenced by those we know in person and those forum groups like on Reddit where they talk about it. To deny this reality is to deny truth. Did God cause them to leave the faith? No, people did using their own freewill and bad choices. They will not be saved if they are not following Christ. Not all Christians will be "saved" on judgment day.
I don't know if you believe in freewill or not, that God is forcing you to type things on this site you don't want to say of if you believe you are doing it. If God forces you to eat things you don't want to eat like Taco Bell or ice cream. But about freewill of course there's only one truth- either its true or not, not both. And its true for me, so are people claiming its not true for them? And is that God speaking through them that its not true or is that their own doing and how can they 100% prove they are not in control of their bodies whatsoever? Some may be deceived and use this as justification to sin against God and perhaps some may be dishonest about it.
1 Cor 4:5 says to judge nothing before the Lord comes and then the Lord will then judge us, but people seem to like judging themselves as saved so some can then make excuses to disobey God.
Romans 15:5 Paul says we need endurance. He warns us, says to endure, and 1 Corinthians 9:24 says to run the race so to win the prize. The refutes the popular narrative.
1 Peter 1:5 - "...salvation ready to be revealed in the last time.”
Hebrews 10:26, James 2:14-26, Matthew 7:21-23
Now one may think, "if I devote myself to a mission then I don't have to work, the church should provide for me and my family". Is this right? What does the Bible says about that?
It is true that God gives to people who are missioners for Him the right not to work but live with what the church provides for them, so that they are not distracted from their mission, it is not possible to go travelling and work at the same time, it is very hard to work and supervise a church at the same time. There is hardly enough time for both. Paul deals with that extensively in 1 Corinthians 9:1-14.
But through ages a major problem has been created in Christianity. A right that was given by God to His people to help them to work for Him, has been taken advantage of by many to make it a profession and live from it. There are a lot of people who choose it as a profession. There are also many that they make millions from that. They often claim that God provides them with plenty of money for their mission to become easier. And they don't stop asking from believers persistently even by using/twisting God's Word, the tiths, which tiths are not valid now in New Testament.
The same problem seems to have occured in Paul's time. So what Paul decided to do was to deny that right and work with His own hands for him and his accompanions, 1 Cor 9:15-18. He also suggests that to the elders in Ephessus, Acts 20:32-35. But it also seems that many times he accepted help from churches, since it wasn't always easy to find a job in those places he travelled to. And many times he was left hungry and thirsty... 1 Cor 4:11-12.
GBU
As you've read the chapter, the Apostle Paul wrote about how specific his ministry was to both Jew & Gentile - that he was doing everything possible to evangelize them & win them to Christ (v22: "...that I might by all means save some).
Then he encourages the Corinthian believers to also do likewise: 'to run the race (the race of living the Life of Christ in them & in service to Him), so that they might win the prize.' Here, Paul alludes to the Corinthian/Isthmian games which his readers would have been familiar with. The athletes had only one thing on their minds: to gain the coveted prize (the crown of special leaves placed on the head or neck, garlanding the winner). But how long did the wreath last for? In a few days, the leaves dried & withered, and in a few months or years, the winner's name might also be forgotten. This Paul called the 'corruptible crown'. Even though the athletes maintained a heavy regimen of training throughout the year in preparation, they did it all for a momentary period of glory & recognition.
For Paul though, and for the believer, our crown (the incorruptible crown), is that which is given by the Lord Himself to His children who have struggled & won the battle against the onslaughts of our enemy, Satan. Paul said "But I keep under my body, and bring it into subjection...", which means that he exercised great discipline in his Christian walk & singular focus on his calling to evangelize. This he willingly did, knowing that his reward lay with Jesus, a crown incorruptible, and not like what man might gain on Earth.
For the crowns (or, recognition) mentioned, see: 1 Thessalonians 2:19; 2 Timothy 4:8; 1 Peter 5:4; James 1:12.
We as believers receive an incorruptible crown. It says in 1 Corinthians 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."
So, every man that strives for the mastery, (or discipline), is temperate (disciplined and controlled) in all things.
I'm not sure if you've ever been in sports, but if you have, you know that unless you have a natural ability, you have to be disciplined in what you eat, how much sleep you get, and how much you exercise.
Now they do it, (and he's talking about the colosseum games), they do it to obtain a corruptible crown;
They get this little wreath that weaves around your head and dies out in a couple of days. That's a corruptible crown. They go through all of that just for that?
But we, (believers) an incorruptible crown. This is eternity with Christ and the crown He has to give. He gives us an incorruptible crown. He gives us eternal life.
That was Paul's introduction to what it took for him to strive for the crown that lay before him. His ultimate crown was that which would be given to him by the Lord, whether the Crown of Glory, Crown of Rejoicing, Crown of Life, or Crown of Righteousness. But he knew to receive the Lord's best, he would need to be disciplined in both life & service to others with the Gospel.
And so, in verses 24 to 27, Paul sees his life & ministry as that of a foot race (a hard, tiring race to make it first to the finish line). Paul may well have been thinking of the Isthmian games which were held every two years in Corinth, & an event the Corinthians would be very familiar with. So, he uses those games to speak about the high state of discipline & rigorous training that athletes have to go through if there would be any real chance of them gaining a win. But those athletes aim for an earthly crown (probably a wreath or an official city honor or statue). This was their time of (man's) glory which would fade away in due course.
But what Paul was striving for was for an incorruptible crown: one that the Lord gives to those who have lived their lives & had served well for God's Glory. This honor doesn't fade away & to get it requires the believer to be careful in their lives, disciplined, & living for the coming of the Lord. But Paul also saw that if his life & witness were hypocritical before others, the preaching of the Gospel would be meaningless & souls would be lost forever. Paul went all out for the Lord & he wanted the believers to do likewise.
1 Corinthians 9:26-27
" 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 CASTAWAY."
Phillipians 3:12-14
"Not as though I had already attained (the prize), either were already perfect: but I follow after, if that I MAY APPREHEND that for which also I am apprehended of Christ Jesus.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. I PRESS TOWARD THE MARK FOR THE PRIZE of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus."
Ephesians 5:3-6
"But fornication, and all uncleanness, or covetousness, let it not be once named among you, as becometh saints;Neither filthiness, nor foolish talking, nor jesting, which are not convenient: but rather giving of thanks.For this ye know, that no whoremonger, NOR UNCLEAN PERSON, nor covetous man, who is an idolater, HATH ANY INHERITANCE in the kingdom of Christ and of God."
Ezekiel 17:24
"But when the righteous turneth away from his righteousness, and committeth iniquity, and doeth according to all the abominations that the wicked man doeth, shall he live? All his righteousness that he hath done shall not be mentioned: in his trespass that he hath trespassed, AND IN HIS SIN THAT HE HATH SINNED, IN THEM SHALL HE DIE."
Matthew 25:1-12. The parable of the 10 virgins.
Matthew 25:14-30. The parable of the servants who were given the talents.
And so many other verses...
I do not mind repeating to all that the Bible is a complete book Revelation 19:13 for us today to prepare ourselves and others. I pray all to be saved. We cannot have the people caught unaware of Matthew 24:37. To rightly divide is to know for us today what we need to do. So I will say that the 11 apostles messages are important for the physical Jews Matthew 10:5-7 at the end time; and there are verses in Matthew, Mark, Luke and John that pertains to a spiritual Christians of today.
God had chosen Paul to be His vessel so we can read and believe not in vain. Study the Book of Romans to Philemon because he was the Last and believe it or not the 12th Apostle Galatians 1:1, Acts 9:15, Acts 13:47, Acts 22:21, Roman's 11:13, Ephesians 3:8, 1 Timothy 2:7, Galatians 1:16. After Jesus died He says Hebrews 9:14-17. Then you are Ephesians 1:12-14, 2 Timothy 2:19 and 2 Corinthians 1:22. Therefore, 1 Corinthians 9:2 just like Romans 15:28. Ephesians 4:30 and sing Psalms 49:8, 111:9, 130:7. In conclusion my fellow-believers, Paul is sealed 1 Corinthians 9:2 by God to be our apostle today. Weneedtoputtheworkof Paul not in vain Galatians 6:11. Paul tells us Romans 2:16, Romans 16:25, 2 Timothy 2:8. And the gospel is 1 Corinthians 15:1-4. Then we are sealed Ephesians 1:13. Perhaps you are not understanding me because Revelation 18:4, Proverbs 20:1, Roman's 7:11, 1 Corinthians 6:9, 1 Corinthians 15:33, Galatians 6:7, 1 Timothy 2:14, 2 Timothy 3:13, Titus 3:3, and lastly Revelation 18:23. Psalm 37:1-40 then we meditate Psalms 27:1-3. Shalom/Agape.
Paul says in 1 Corinthians 9:27, But I keep under my body, and I bring it into subjection:
When he says I keep my body under, the Greek phrase is "I beat my body black and blue," boxing terms!
When you are disciplining your body for a contest, you're actually punishing your body and putting it through pain to get it ready.
To bring it into subjection, lest that by any means, when I have preached to others, I myself should be disqualified.
The word castaway is an athletic term that means disqualified.
Can you imagine the judge on the judges' stand, and after you worked for 6 months or whatever it is just to get that little crown for your head?
You want to beat everybody else and be in the best shape that you can, and the judge sees you make the turn and you cut into somebody else's lane. Disqualified!
Paul says I keep my body in subjection, so that after I preach to others, I'm not disqualified because of the actions of my flesh.
You see, there's two aspects about serving Christ. Number one, is the Spirit of Christ in us ministering to others, and the control of the flesh, so that that influence is not pushed away by people that have received Christ through us.
It happens all the time. We talk truth, but we act like everybody else does!
I agree with your first sentence. To add, Jesus said "But he answered and said, I am not sent but unto the lost sheep of the house of Israel." Matthew 15:24 KJV. During Jesus Christ on earth He commanded His Disciples in Matthew 10:5 These twelve Jesus sent forth, and commanded them, saying, Go not into the way of the Gentiles, and into any city of the Samaritans enter ye not:
6 But go rather to the lost sheep of the house of Israel. Jesus was preaching the gospel of the Kingdom of Heaven. Had the Jews recognized their King..could of, would of, should of. But they killed their Messiah. Your second sentence is half correct. Jesus Christ had chosen Paul to be the twelfth apostle with a purpose to tell us Gentiles more detail what happened during his dispensation. The word dispensation can only be found 4X in Paul's epistles: 1 Corinthians 9:17
For if I do this thing willingly, I have a reward: but if against my will, a dispensation of the gospel is committed unto me.
Ephesians 3:2
If ye have heard of the dispensation of the grace of God which is given me to you-ward:
Colossians 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;
Ephesians 1:10
That in the dispensation of the fulness of times he might gather together in one all things in Christ, both which are in heaven, and which are on earth; even in him:
These verses proved to me that when Paul told us to "divide the word of truth" means that God speaks to different people in different times. Meaning Dispensation. Therefore, some verses of the Bible applies only to the Jews and only to Gentiles and some applies both to Jews and Gentiles in different times as "God, who at sundry times and in divers manners spake in time past unto the fathers by the prophets," Hebrews 1:1 KJV. Paul is our Apostle today. His dispensation of Grace is critical for today's salvation. 1 Corinthians 15:1-4. Agape.
Paul wrote two letters to Timothy who was pastoring the church in Ephesus. Timothy's name is mentioned 24 times in the New Testament. Timothy was from Lystra and he was saved during Paul's first missionary journey ( Acts 14:19-20; Acts 16:1-2)
His mother Eunice, and his grandmother Lois, were godly Jewish women. In fact, Timothy was taught the Old Testament scriptures since he was a little boy. So he has a scriptural background. Timothy was about 15-years-old when he first met Paul. And when Paul writes his letter to Timothy, he's approximately 35. So he has spent approximately 20 years with Paul in ministry learning.
Even though Timothy's mother and grandmother were godly Jewish women, his father was a pagan Greek. ( Acts 16:1; 2 Timothy 1:5). Timothy was raised hearing Old Testament Scriptures. ( 2 Timothy 3:14-15). He joined Paul, along with Silas and Luke, during second missionary trip. ( Acts 16:3).
Paul had Timothy circumcised so that he might have the freedom to preach the gospel in Jewish synagogues. ( Acts 16:3; 1 Corinthians 9:20). He could not do that unless he was circumcised. Timothy was ordained by Paul and the Presbytery. ( 1 Timothy 4:14; 2 Timothy 1:6). He accompanies Paul on his third missionary trip. ( Acts 19:22; Acts 20:4; 2 Corinthians 1:1, 1:19).
Timothy ministered in at least five churches as Paul's representative:
1) Thessalonica ( 1 Thessalonians 3:2, 3:6)
2) Corinth ( 1 Corinthians 4:17; 16:10; 2 Corinthians 1:19)
3) Philippi ( Philippians 2:19-23)
4) Berea ( Acts 17:14)
5) Ephesus ( 1 Timothy 1:3)
Timothy was with Paul during Paul's first imprisonment ( Philippians 1:1; Colossians 1:1; Philemon 1:1) and went to Philippi after Paul's release. ( Philippians 2:19-23). Timothy was around 35-years of age when Paul wrote I Timothy. Timothy also suffered imprisonment. ( Hebrews 13:23).
Hope this helps!
Malachi 3:10 Bring ye all the tithes into the storehouse, that there may be meat in mine house, and prove me now herewith, saith the LORD of hosts, if I will not open you the windows of heaven, and pour you out a blessing, that there shall not be room enough to receive it.
1 Corinthians 16:2 Upon the first day of the week let every one of you lay by him in store, as God hath prospered him, that there be no gatherings when I come.
1 Corinthians 9:6 - 11
1 Timothy 5:18 For the scripture saith, Thou shalt not muzzle the ox that treadeth out the corn. And, The labourer is worthy of his reward.
When you are hunting for a church - be sure you are looking for the truth. Read and study willing to except the Word. May the Lord Bless you
b. Colossians 2:16
Your reference to including the 7th day weekly Sabbath in with the Mosaic sabbaths (plural) included in ordinances of the Law of Moses does not stand up to close scrutiny.
The italic of the 'days' in verse 16 emphasizes the plurality of the multiple sabbaths in the law of Moses which is distinct to the Moral 10 commandment law of God.
Most respectfully your reference to Colossians 2:14-17 is a mish mash including an implied reference to Hebrews chapters 10:1 and a misrepresentation of Colossians chapter 2's application only to the law of Moses..
The entire paragraph starting at Colossian 2:14 and ending in verse 17 clearly shows that the reference Paul is making is limited to the 'Handwriting of ordinances' which was contrary to us, nailing it to His cross'. The reference confirmed in verse 16 Let no man therefore judge you in meat, or in drink, or in respect of an holyday, or of the new moon, or of the sabbath days" is a clear reference to the law of Moses and limits this reference only to the Law of Moses and NOT the Moral 10 Commandment Law of God.
How do we know this for sure? Because the Law of Moses was:
Written by Moses using a scribe who wrote on paper using handwriting of The book - Deuteronomy 31:24
Contains the codes for ordinances & ceremonies (including feast & Holy days etc), sacrificial ceremony, health, civil laws, treatment of animals, treatment of slaves etc - Leviticus 18: 3 & 4, 1 Corinthians 9:9
Whereas the 10 commandment Moral of God makes no reference to Drinks, meat offerings, ordinances, new moons or an holy day and does not contain multiple sabbaths - but the Law of Moses contains ALL of these.
The reference you make to Colossians 2 verse 17 again confirms that this cannot refer to the Moral law of God and therefore cannot include the weekly sabbath as being nailed to the cross.
How so? Because as you say it was 'a shadow' - this shadow of a law concept links this scripture verse 17 with Hebrews 10:1
My interpretation of the scriptures is that if we decide to legitimately turn from our old evil ways and follow Jesus while intentionally trying to follow Him and avoid sin, then that process is being born again. John 3:3 It is the process of becoming new in Christ. I believe this is a huge commitment and a serious change in someone's direction in life. I think people who dismiss this as unimportant are at risk of not legitimately being born again. I think most Christians dismiss following Jesus as just a box to check so they can then go back to enjoing a life of sin (and inadvertantly following satan). Most people do this and most will go to hell. That is a fact that Jesus warned us of over and over. And much of the gospel are warnings to both nonbelievers and believers- especially Christians not taking Jesus seriously. Matthew 10:28.
I personally don't believe anyone is "saved" until we are judged, and I don't believe judgment day happens until Jesus returns. And I believe it will all happen on the same day, because it says 'day of judgment' over and over. Not days, or weeks, or years of judgment. This contradicts what a lot of people want to believe that they go instantly to heaven upon death.
So, my belief differs from popular Christian interpretations which says people are already "saved" if they respond to an altar call, or touch the TV and pray while at home, or invite Jesus "into your heart". These words aren't exactly found in the Bible from what I have discovered.
When I read about salvation it appears to be future tense- after judgment. Romans 10:9, 1 Peter 1:5. 1 Corinthians 9:24. God bless.
OK lets go back to the verse" the wage of sin is death but the gift of God is eternal life .."
What does that mean? That eternal life is unconditional? I don't think so. There is a condition for Jesus's blood to be available to you. That is to repent. As long as you are in an unrepentant condition Jesus's. Blood is not abailable to you. So a Christian shouldn't think that no matter what he does, no matter how he walks everything is OK. It's not OK. I don't mean that when you do a sin God is immediately ready to send you to hell, but the way you walk is risky. I think you understand what I am saying
OK lets go to Matthew 6:15 "But if ye forgive not men their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses." What do you make of that. If God doesn't forgive your sins , no problem at all? I think that thinking like you do one is in danger to consider that eternal life is ensured/secured no matter what he does, and that is risky.
Finally lets go to 1 Corinthians 9:25-27. Apostle Paul talks about himself as well. Pay attention to verse 27 " 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". That word castaway doesn't ring any bell?
O.K it is well understood that there is a difference in opinions here, I do respect yours but not accept it. Sorry brother, no offense meant.
GBU
1 Peter 1:13 "...hope to the end for the grace that is to be brought unto you at the revelation of Jesus Christ;"
1 Peter 1:5 - "...salvation ready to be revealed in the last time."
Joshua 24:15 "choose you this day whom ye will serve"
John 14:15 "If ye love me, keep my commandments."
Matthew 12:32 "...but whosoever speaketh against the Holy Ghost, it shall not be forgiven him, neither in this world, neither in the world to come."
James 2:14-26 "...faith, if it hath not works, is dead..."
Jude 1:21 "KEEP YOURSELVES IN THE LOVE OF GOD, looking for the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ unto eternal life."
James 5:19-20 "BRETHREN, if any of YOU do ERR FROM THE TRUTH, and one convert him; Let him know, that he which converteth the sinner from the error of his way shall save a soul from death, and shall hide a multitude of sins.
James 2:19 "Thou believest that there is one God; thou doest well: the devils also believe, and tremble."
1 Corinthians 9:26-27 "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."
Hebrews 10:29
"Of how much sorer punishment, suppose ye, shall he be thought worthy, who hath trodden under foot the Son of God, and hath counted the blood of the covenant, wherewith he was sanctified, an unholy thing, and hath done despite unto the Spirit of grace?"
1 Cor 9:24-27 "run the race"
I do not know of verse in Psalms that says that, but in 1 Corinthians 9:16-18, the apostle Paul touches on this. In Verse 17, he says, "For if I do this thing willingly, (that is, voluntarily), I have (Present Tense), a reward:
There are many pastors and ministers that would probably disagree with this, but if they voluntarily and willingly wanted to be in ministry, and they get a paycheck for it, that would be their reward!
In Verse 18, he says what is my reward then? Verily that, when I preach the gospel, I may make the gospel of Christ without charge, so that I abuse not my authority in the gospel.
There are many people in the ministry that need to be challenged, especially those on the television that continuously say we need more money. I am often tempted to call in and tell these ministers to go out and get a job. Most of these ministers are pulling in a minimum $150,000 dollars a year, some much more, and their ministry is running out of money?
Well, I say go get a job! If you do that, your ministry saves $150,000, and you just continue to preach the gospel. If you're running out of money, go and sell one of your multi-million dollar homes or your private jet and use that money where it needs to be used, not on yourself.
But you know, that doesn't go over too well with these ministers! I have to wonder what their response would be if you were to ask them to preach the gospel free of charge, as Paul did.
1 Corinthians 9:1-18.
Apostle Paul clearly states that God gave the right who they teach the Gospel to live from the Gospel. But Paul denied that privilege and worked with his own hands to meet his and his accompanions' needs although sometimes he accepted help from the churches he established. i.e Thessalonians.
Acts 20:32-35
During the meeting with the elders from Ephesus he suggests that they follow his example.
So yes the right to live from the church is given by God (but nowhere in the New Testament that right is defined as 10%, on the contrary everybody may give anything he wants, 2 Corinthians 9:7) but the best thing is to follow Paul's example.
In the congregation i attend, the bishop, the elders and the deacons have a job to live from and get nothing from the church. The members of the church give every Sunday anything they want and can to meet church's expences. 2 Corinthians 9:7
Finally being a bishop IS NOT AND SHOULD NOT BE A PROFFESION just like all the other ones to live from.