I am trying with this subject not to go to the extreme of saying that anything we do can save ourselves. What I will say is that what we do can bring us into condemnation at least until He truly lives within us; and we are truly saved. I will also state that EVERY step to salvation is inspired by the Holy Spirit. Even hearing the message which has the potential to bring someone to salvation is confined to this life; we don't get any second chances after we die.
We all start out in this life hearing the Gospel message and responding one way or another. We have to ask how the Spirit works in each part of the process. I will state that scripture seems to make it clear that even if we don't understand the mysteries of the church and how the Spirit indwells someone who is a believer prior to salvation no one in hell from all scripture we see on the subject is there without sins convicting their consciences in this life. Hearing the Word causes a reaction for anyone hearing it; whether believing or rejecting it. One can come to Christ after hearing the Word multiple times (as I did) but the person once they hear it and understand in their minds cannot say they are unaware of the basic truths of the Gospel; that is if presented correctly. I believe that true repentance only comes from the Lord but as 2 Corinthians 7:10 states that repentance leads TO salvation (see also 2 Timothy 2:25 on God GRANTING repentance). Logically; a person must HEAR the word; then have true repentance and then act on it. I would argue at that stage repentance first involves a DESIRE then definite ACTION to turn away from sin; and more importantly our former LIFESTYLE of sin. Also; a true believer continues in the faith until the end; but for some that involves God having to severely discipline a person; and as Corinthians states; some have "fallen asleep" taking communion unworthily; others are given over to Satan but still saved.
Hi Ronald: No worries. I'm not offended, but I'm absolutely confused why you keep correcting the Holy Ghost's writing of the bible. If He thought the creek word aion translated better into age then world He would have had it translated that way. That was the reason for my sarcasm and I'm sure He knew there were some Creek words that won't translat into English but what does that have to do with anything. In 2 Timothy 2:15 when God tells us to diligently study I believe He meant His true word not a dozen other books of Hebrew or Creek or whatever if it makes us think we know better then God how a word could have been translated in a better way. God Bless :)
If the day didn't matter why did God (Jesus) specifically command the Sabbath or the seventh day to be our day to rest like He did and emphasis it by telling us to remember it and then turn around when He was incarnate and discount it or change His mind about something so important?
A real day of rest, which is what God commanded, would be a real blessing for us. It rejuvenates the mind, body and soul. It gives us the opportunity to set the things of the world, work, even troubles, aside and gives us a full day to give God and family our undivided attention so we can just relax in the Lord. Fellowship with friends is good on the Sabbath also giving them real time and attention, not just a few minutes after church or sitting in a crowded, noisy restaurant.
That said, 2 Timothy 2:15 "Study to shew theyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed rightly dividing the word of truth." is one of the most important scriptures we can read and obey, I believe. There are to many people telling us this and that and the other thing, including myself, so believers need to learn what God says about anything themself by studying and trusting the Holy Spirit to show them what God's will is. God Bless :)
Worshiping God is wonderful for the believer any day, any time whether on your own or in fellowship. The 4th commandment, although, addressed to Israel at the time God gave them, where for ALL of Gods children and that is proven by the fact that we obey them still today, except the 4th. The 4th commandment only asks that we set one day (Sabbath; Saturday) for a rest for our minds, bodies, and souls. Since most of the world worships on Sunday this is not breaking the 4th commandment, unfortunately though, people have also determined that that will be their day of rest also, despite the commandment is for Saturday. But putting days of the week aside, we need to have one day of real rest a week. God commanded it and specifically said "remember it" for us so that we, as believers, would make it a true day of rest. Mostly now Saturdays are for chores and errands and hopefully after worship on Sunday the person or family relaxes and rest at home. But if chores or errands weren't finished on Saturday it usually gets finished on Sunday because people attribute the Sabbath as only a day of worship now when, in fact as I said, there is nothing in the commandment that is about worship. It is such a blessing that you are a believer in Christ and have given your heart and life only to Him. Be glad and rejoice. Study your bible diligently for your answers as we are told to do in 2 Timothy 2:15 one of the most important verses in the bible, in my opinion.
Scripture tells us Jesus returns only one time, Zachariah 14:4 Matthew 24:30Acts 1:111 Thessalonians 4:16-17Hebrews 9:28Rev. 1:7Rev. 6:15-16. When Jesus returns those who are chosen and faithful are resurrected to reign on earth with Jesus, Rev. 17:14Daniel 2:44Daniel 7:26-272 Timothy 2:12Rev. 5:10Rev. 11:15.
This reign on earth begins after the tribulation and the armies of Satan, the beast, the false prophet, and the ten kings/countries of the beast who destroy mystery Babylon come to battle Jesus in the battle of Armageddon, Zachariah 14:1-3 Ezekiel 39:17-22Rev. 19:17-19Rev. 16:13-16. In Rev. 20 we see Satan bound and sealed in the bottomless pit for 1000 years. Jesus then sets up the Kingdom on earth and we see the judgment of those in the first resurrection who will be reigning with Jesus on earth for 1000 years Rev. 20:4-6.
The 1000-year Kingdom will be on the earth, but it will be very different from the world today without the temptation of Satan, Isaiah 65:25Zechariah 14:16 It will be a time when Lord Jesus and those chosen to rule the nations with an iron rod so that all the promises of God be fulfilled, all the boundaries of land God promised Abraham have never been, Genesis 15:18-20Numbers 34:1-12 but they will in the future.
We know from Rev. 20:7-10, that there will be nations after the 1000 years that Satan will go out to deceive and bring them together to battle. After this battle, a fire burns up the earth and Satan is cast into the lake of fire, "the earth and the heaven fled away" The final Judgment of the white throne is not just for the lost, and all in this judgment who is not found in the Book of Life will be cast into the lake of fire, Rev. 20:11-15, Daniel 12:2Matthew 25:32-46John 5:28-29.
I think one of the absolutely most vital verses to read and understand is 2 Timothy 2:15. "Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed rightly dividing the word of truth." (KJB) Don't you agree? Do you believe the Word is from God for each one of us to read and study so we can understand what God is telling us? Do you believe God is telling us to study for ourselves, to know what God is wanting from us so we can have eternal life? Do you believe God has given all the scripture to us by the power of the Holy Ghost to admonishes us to know His will so we can find our way to heaven? Do you believe that once you begin to study with an open heart and mind that you will find delight in God's word? I am a child of God not a Catholic or a Protestant or a part of any kind of religion, just a child of God. God doesn't care about titles. So, what is really true when it comes to the human soul and having a promise of eternal life with God? Isn't that what matters? It's easier to just go along and accept what other's may tell you to believe but in the end it will be devastating for your soul if they are wrong. We, as God's creation, can have an assured hope of heaven if we would find the truth on our own, what God has planned for us from the very beginning. God became man in the person of Jesus Christ so His divine blood could be the ultimate sacrifice for our sins. He didn't intend for it to be any other way. His death and return to heaven was all He decided was needed for us to have salvation. He gave His word for us to find our way to the true Him and how to become born again. I hope there will be those who will give, what you read here, some serious thought and take it to heart. The Holy Ghost wrote the bible, He will help you understand it. Just ask Him to.
Satan's machinations: PART TWO (further study on Satan's affect on us as individuals)
Part Two: The battle of the mind.
In my last post; I ran out of space again; but was getting into the verse where Jesus told Satan to get behind him when Peter was stating that basically going to the cross was not fit for Jesus to do. This shows how Christ expects us as His disciples to rely totally on the Spirit to allow the flesh to be dead. Luke 4:8 is the other verse where Jesus says this to Satan after the temptations in the wilderness. We see a difference between Peter then and after Pentecost as Jesus foretold after he denied knowing him. In all fairness since ALL the disciples ran off their fear for their lives superseded their love for Christ. This truly shows how only trust in the Spirit of God will enable us to face death with courage should it be in the time and place God has chosen. As I have said before it is the end of a life of obedience that Christ and in fact all the Disciples except for John met their fate; the spiritual man grows and matures through self denial and service to that point.
Our thought processes are determined merely by our old man at birth. Thus characteristic behaviors and routines develop which tend to linger with us even post salvation. There are; of course the affects of nurturing vs cruel parents; abundance or poverty in youth which the Lord is aware of but also weigh in on the enemy's game plan. Of course with the mind along with everything else the enemy attacks us with the easiest thing to do is be determined to TRUST God and reject any thought which isn't captive to His (God's) will ( 2 Corinthians 10:5); compare with 2 Timothy 2:26. We learn to recognize the enemy's patterns after hopefully only a few similar assaults at our weakest points. We learn to discern the Spirit of God which is outside of self from Satan's devices; which always appeals to the flesh and exalting self. RUN IF IT GOES AGAINST SCRIPTURE!
Hello Trishkus: I hope it's okay if I respond to some of the "things people have told you" as not being quite right according to the KJB. I want to encourage you not to believe what I or others have told you. In 2 Timothy 2:15 God very plainly tells us to study for ourselves, rightly dividing the truth. If you are a born again child of God the Holy Ghost will give you decrement in understanding His word. You are right about all the modern versions of the bible, like the NKJV, ESV, NIV, etc. They're corrupt. They change doctrine not just the language that people claim they can't understand. There are videos you can see that simply give you a comparison verse by verse. You might also download biblehub.org. It will help you a lot. In response to the first thing you mentioned, I'm not sure what happened, but you are only condemned if you don't accept Jesus as your Savior while on this earth. Perhaps forget about that. If you haven't already, repent and accept Christ into your heart and dedicate your life to Him and, as long as you keep Him in your heart and life, you will not be condemned. Water baptism should be done by you as a testimony that you have accepted Him as your Savior but it's NOT necessary for salvation. It is the blood of Jesus that saves us not His blood AND water. Once we have accepted Christ as our Savior, we must put Him first in our life. We must give ourselves to Him in prayer, fasting and study to be always His obedient child. The rich young ruler in Matthew 19:16-22, was told by Jesus to sell all his belongings in order to gain heaven but the lesson Jesus was teaching was he needed to love God more then his possessions. The reasons God turned away from the Jews was because they refused to accept Jesus as their Messiah, which would have led them to be a witness for Him to the Gentiles. Most of them continued to do this until they ultimately crucified Him. His church then taught the Jews and Gentiles of salvation through Jesus. God Bless :)
Welcome to the site, what comes to mind is 2 Timothy 2:15-16, truth only comes from the Spirit of Truth, not our mind which is full of preconceived thoughts that blind our eyes, plug our ears, and block the truth.
Do you believe that the will of the Father and the will of the Son are always the same or different?
Jesus was obedient to the Father, Jesus said many times it is not His will but the will of the Father who sent Him, the same as we are to do, John 4:34John 5:30Mark 3:35.
Do you believe that a human being can truly save all men from sin and death by a perfect life in their own will?
First, I will have to say it was the will of the Father, Jesus at the end even asked His father if there was another way but not Jesus's will but the will of His Father, Matthew 26:39Luke 22:42. We are told this is the foundation of our faith, Jesus' sacrificial death. God cannot die God is Spirit He has no blood to shed for sin it had to be a man, His Son, born of a woman.
John 3:16 God gave His Son not Himself 1 John 2:221 John 4:32 John 1:7Romans 5:82 Corinthians 5:21, God cannot be made sin, 1 Corinthians 15:17 Jesus died, and God raised Him from the dead, the first man to live a perfect life, the first fruits of those who sleep in death. 1 Corinthians 15:14 as said if Jesus was not a man who lived a perfect life and died and was raised from the dead all is vain.
The first Adam was the first man Jesus was the last Adam and the second man, 1 Corinthians 15:45-47. 1 Corinthians 15:21 For since by man came death, by man came also the resurrection of the dead. The law had to be fulfilled by a man.
How would a human being know that they are the Messiah from birth and thus know not to ever sin?
As we see Luke 2:51-52 Jesus grew up increasing in wisdom and stature in favor with God and man. Jesus was twelve years old and He knew His father was God, but it doesn't say Jesus knew then He was to be the Messiah. God also said He would raise up unto thee a Prophet from the midst of thee, Deuteronomy 18:15, Isaiah 11:1-5Isaiah 61:1-2 confirmed in Luke 4:18-21. Romans 1:1-42 Timothy 2:8.
Hi Nath Oga: I understand that this kind of thing is very strong in the culture of your country. But God is an all powerful God and He can never be overcome by these people practicing demonic curses on you. However, if you want God to help you, you must be truly born again. You must have repented of your sins to Christ and Christ alone and that He is the only one you pray to and accept as your Sovereign God. No other persons must be prayed to or adored or worshiped. God and God alone. If you are born again through repentance by the divine blood of Jesus Christ and worship Him and Him alone, then He will fight this battle for you. If these people are saying curses over you then read scripture over them, not only scriptures of the power of God but also scripture of love and forgiveness. This is what the verses in Proverbs 25: 21-22 mean when we heap coals of fire on our enemies head. Do you understand that God is much greater and more powerful then these witches and warlocks? With God they have no power at all. If you have the Spirit of God in your life as a true believer these foolish people shouldn't even bother you. They have no power over you if you belong to God. I could give you tons of verses from God's true word, the King James 1611 Bible, that tell you this is so. I will give you a couple but it would be best if you searched some out for yourself. 2 Timothy 2:15.
Rebuke these people as Jesus did when the devil tried to tempt him while He was in the wilderness. Mathew 4: 1-11. Stand up to them with scripture but, also showing them love and kindness; the unconditional love of Christ. You do need to belong to Jesus for this to work for you. If you have become a new creature in CHRIST and CHRIST alone and God your Father and Jesus your Savior are the only ones you pray to then, be brave, be strong and trust God with your whole heart, soul and mind and He will send these demonic people out of your life and they will leave you alone.
To know Christ and to make Him known is the theme of the Navigators ministry and correlates with 1 John and other passages.
This is a good summary of understanding the personal meaning of Christ's sacrifice on the cross for atonement as well as our duties fulfilling our part in the Great Commission.
I imagine most here know the necessary doctrines of believing Christ is a member of the Godhead and thus Divinity Himself who was the only one who could atone for sins (as the sinless spotless Lamb of God) by becoming a man as we are without sin and remaining so throughout His earthly ministry; then dying on the cross and resurrecting from the dead 3 days later. Finally; He is to return once again physically to rule and reign on the earth.
2 Timothy 2:8 and 2 Thessalonians 2:2 show we should avoid the error of stating that the resurrection has already occurred or the day of the Lord is at hand. Matthew 24:26 states that the Lord hasn't come yet for those who say He is hiding somewhere and also states the likeness of His arrival as lightning in the very next verse. This should be enough to disclaim what Preterists state that the Lord has already come. Therefore I would contend that full Preterists that state this are far enough off in doctrine that we should avoid fellowship with them.
Assuming we have the essentials of salvation straightened out; there are many other warnings and admonitions in scripture such as testing ourselves to see if we are in the faith would involve ( 2 Corinthians 13:5). We need to accept that doctrines aren't just what is required to be saved; but also what is necessary to prove that we are bringing fruits worthy of repentance ( Matthew 3:8 and many other similar verses). We are not subject to the law in some sense IF we are truly dead to sin ( Romans 6:11) in one sense; because we have a new nature; but in the same token we DESIRE to obey Christ and love and serve Him as Lord; Master and Savior.
Hello Confuzzled: I know the idea of hitting a child, especially a young child like yours, can be traumatic. The key is to understand what the bible is saying about discipline and what a rod is. Right after WWII people started accepting the worlds philosophical methods to raise a child, which mostly included no discipline, instead of keeping with God's plan. Now today we see the terrible results; children, who have been coddled instead of receiving loving, caring discipline are a mess. If we rightly divide the word ( 2 Timothy 2:15), we can understand how to do this so our children are well behaved and show a good witness for the Lord and it is not harmful. When I was a single parent of 3 small children the discipling was now up to me. Since the mother's role is to nurture I didn't want to use my hand so I saw by scripture that a rod could be a stick. I got a thin, small, smooth branch and used that. It stung but didn't abuse and worked pretty well. After using it for awhile, usually all I had to do was reach for it and the bad behavior stopped.
Prov. 13:24 "He that spareth his ROD hateth his son: but he that loveth him CHASTENETH him betimes" (in good time).
ROD: SHEBET (SHAY-BET) STICK
CHASEN: MUSAR (MOO0SAWR') REPROOF, WARNING. Discipline, however, doesn't have to always be a spanking. MY daughter babysat for two little girls. One was very active and the other one loved just sitting and reading a book all day. If the first one was misbehaving my daughter would make her just sit in a chair staring at the wall for a time, this was punishment to her. If the other one needed discipling my daughter made her go outside and ride her bike or roller skate, or something like that for a time. It worked very well. There really is a lot to learn about the discipling of a child but God can lead you to people who can help. Just be sure their advise is biblical. I hope this helps a little and I will be praying. God Bless :)
1. Payment of the redemption; illustrated with the "Kinsman-Redeemer" situation between Boaz and Ruth in the book of Ruth. This is the first visible action from the Lord only when one comes to salvation; it was predetermined in the counsel of God before the foundation of the world ( Eph. 1:4; 1 Peter 1:20).
2. Repentance being granted. This is also mentioned in Acts 11:18 and 2 Timothy 2:25.
3. Confession by the mouth as a result of believing in the heart ( Romans 10:9-13). This is an action of response to God's saving grace.
There is no other way or method to salvation but by God's prescribed measure of believing on the Son ( Matt. 11:27)
Hebrews 11:1 states: "Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen." In my last post I discussed the concept of repentance and that it isn't something we merely learn by our own wisdom or intuition but that it is a gift from God as many scriptures state. 2 Timothy 2:25 as well as scriptures in Acts; 2 Peter and Romans show how repentance is granted or given by the Lord. As stated in my earlier comments no contrition on our part is able to save us. This is not to say; however that the admonition in Romans 6:1-2 isn't pertinent; we shouldn't seek to sin more for more grace. Our testimony should come from a genuine admission of realization of our state before salvation. We realize that we are no better than a murderer; adulterer or any other sinner that is repugnant to society at large. Of course our NATURE has to be understood; or else we are as Judas Iscariot did just sorry for our actions rather than realizing the cause is a rotten heart needing to die to itself and be rebirthed. Peter had a downfall and Thomas doubted but they recognized the Lord when He made Himself known to them.
My earlier statements should by no means detract from the importance of emulating external actions which are outflows of GOOD FRUIT in our lives. 1 Corinthians 11:1 (easy to memorize with this numbering) gives Paul's exhortation to imitate him as he imitates Christ. Demonstrations of such behaviors are much like a parent to a child in this case. How we need such examples in church leadership today! How many of these mega pastors live even close to Paul who would work for himself so as not to burden the churches and suffer as he did with deprivation and imprisonment for the cause of Christ?
We are not to idolize people but those of Godly character should motivate us; and also bring the fear of the Lord and His holiness to unbelievers as Paul did with the prison guard ( Acts 16:30-33). Our lifestyles must back up our words.
All there is to know about our LORD SAVIOR JESUS CHRIST is in scripture. Let us study to show ourselves approved, with the knowledge of being able to discern and apply HIS word daily as it glorifies HIM. 2 Timothy 2:15
May we add daily unto our knowledge and wise application the attributes and character of our GOD the LORD JESUS. Colossians 3; 2 Peter 1
(many more)
Numbers 6
24 The LORD bless thee, and keep thee:
25 The LORD make his face shine upon thee, and be gracious unto thee:
26 The LORD lift up his countenance upon thee, and give thee peace.
27 And they shall put my name upon the children of Israel; and I will bless them.
The Millennium: Conceiving of mortal man coexisting with resurrected saints.
According to Isaiah 65:20 the man who dies at 100 will be considered a youth and before 100 cursed. This shows the reason for death during the Millennium; it would seem that the lifespan will reach 1000 emulating those who lived well into their 900s according to several accounts in Genesis in the Antidiluvian world. Proof of the Millennium is also found in verses such as Zechariah 14:17 for those who would argue that once the Lord returns that is it and we go immediately into eternity; where death clearly doesn't exist anymore ( 1 Cor. 15:55-57 coming from a passage in Hosea in the O.T.)
The idea of the necessity of a temple at that time makes sense; therefore for several reasons. There would need to be a ceremonial cleansing to be in the presence of Christ and probably us in glorified bodies; not for sin but because of our still corrupted and inferior bodies for those who survive the Tribulation and come to worship there. There are subtle differences as to frequency of sacrifices and a few other details in the temple mentioned in the last few chapters of Ezekiel from the O.T. standards. The external ceremony honoring the Lord; and it fulfilling its role as a place for prayer for all nations ( Isaiah 56:7; quoted by Christ when cleansing the Temple in the N.T.) will bring together these individuals with us; the glorified saints who are given authority to rule and reign with Christ ( 2 Timothy 2:12; etal).
The Gospel; as I have stated rather often at this forum will never be the same by the sixth seal in Revelation forward. There will be no need to preach about who Christ is; or what we are supposed to do although it will be a wonderful truth to share with the natural born children at that time. The warnings about testing ourselves to see if we are in the faith; however certainly will be vital ( 2 Cor. 13:5). Many will believe but sadly ( Rev. 20:8) will rebel and be lost.
Yes, Momsage, man will always have free will & be able to make choices in life (a gift granted by God). What I've tried to show from my comment you referred to, is that when God by His Spirit is indwelling & controlling His child, the child, though having free will & maybe somewhat self-willed, will always be under the Spirit's watchful Ministry - and this can include correction, warning, discipline, even death (so that the "spirit may be saved": 1 Corinthians 5:5).
From what the Word tells me about the Work of the Spirit, is that a truly saved person, though subject to correction will be kept by HIS Power & not ours: 1 Peter 1:3-5 "Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, which according to his abundant mercy HATH begotten us again unto a lively hope by the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, TO an inheritance incorruptible, and undefiled, and that fadeth NOT away, RESERVED in heaven for you, Who are KEPT by the power of God through faith unto salvation ready to be revealed in the last time." All of God's Work & according to His Promise; or else, we can be popping in & out of salvation (re-birth) at will, making mockery of God's faultless & unfailing work.
Thank you for the testimony of you & your husband's 'salvation', your departure from the Lord & subsequent joyful return. I think many of us can testify similarly of such an experience - but in each case, we have to rely on God's Work & Word & the knowledge that "the foundation of God standeth sure, having this SEAL, The Lord KNOWETH them that are his. And, Let everyone that nameth the name of Christ depart from iniquity" ( 2 Timothy 2:19). I believe that those whom the Lord seals (& He alone knows them by name), can never be un-sealed. As in your case, or even with me, having at one stage left the Lord & enjoyed the world's offerings, & then returned, it is the Lord's application of His Work in our lives - and this Work usually testifies well through personal testimony. Blessings.
To avoid them, you have to know who they are. You can't avoid somebody if you don't know who they are. This idea of identifying and avoiding shows up in
1 Corinthians 5:11;
2 Thessalonians 3:6,
2 Thessalonians 3:14;
2 Timothy 3:5;
2 John 1:10.
In other words, Christians, and shepherds in particular, should be discerning and alert to behavior and teaching that dishonors Christ and destroys people - and not treat it in a casual or harmless way.
And then in 1 Timothy 5:19-20, Paul went beyond just "avoid them" to "rebuke them publicly." So, speaking of elders who persist in error, he said, "Do not admit a charge against an elder except on the evidence of two or three witnesses. As for those who persist in sin" - and that can be sin of false doctrine or sin of evil behavior, anyone who does not accept correction - "rebuke them in the presence of all, so that the rest may stand in fear.."
And then Paul went on and actually named destructive false teachers:
"Demas, in love with this present world, has deserted me" 2 Timothy 4:10.
You are aware that all who are in Asia turned away from me, among whom are Phygelus and Hermogenes" 2 Timothy 1:15.
"By rejecting this [faith and a good conscience], some have made shipwreck of their faith, among whom are Hymenaeus and Alexander" 1 Timothy 1:19-20.
"Their talk will spread like gangrene. Among them are Hymenaeus and Philetus" ( 2 Timothy 2:17).
Paul names at least six false teachers that the church should watch out for.
So, I infer from Jesus and Paul and Luke and John that false teaching and destructive behavior are present dangers in this fallen world for the church. And all of us - especially shepherds, pastors - should be alert and discerning to identify and, in appropriate ways, expose. In order to protect the flock, we should expose them and minimize the spread of the gangrene (as Paul calls it).
May the LORD give us wisdom in reading, studying and applying HIS word.
2 Timothy 2:15
James 2:
10 For whosoever shall keep the whole law, and yet offend in one point, he is guilty of all.
Romans 4:
2 For if Abraham were justified by works, he hath whereof to glory; but not before God.
3 For what saith the scripture? Abraham believed God, and it was counted unto him for righteousness.
4 Now to him that worketh is the reward not reckoned of grace, but of debt.
5 But to him that worketh not, but believeth on him that justifieth the ungodly, his faith is counted for righteousness.
Ephesians 2:
8 For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God:
9 Not of works, lest any man should boast.
Titus 3:
4 But after that the kindness and love of God our Saviour toward man appeared,
5 Not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to his mercy he saved us, by the washing of regeneration, and renewing of the Holy Ghost;
6 Which he shed on us abundantly through Jesus Christ our Saviour;
7 That being justified by his grace, we should be made heirs according to the hope of eternal life.
May we be intercessors in CHRIST name, Isaiah 59:16, for those who have been blinded by the god of this world, 2 Corinthians 4:3, 4.
We are called to stand in the gap for others, Ezekiel 22:30, and plant the seed of the word that others may water and that GOD will give the increase.
Acts 15:
8 And God, which knoweth the hearts, bare them witness, giving them the Holy Ghost, even as he did unto us;
9 And put no difference between us and them, purifying their hearts by faith.
10 Now therefore why tempt ye God, to put a yoke upon the neck of the disciples, which neither our fathers nor we were able to bear?
11 But we believe that through the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ we shall be saved, even as they.
1 Corinthians 10:4 talks about everyone drinking from the same spiritual rock and the Rock was Christ. God made a covenant with His chosen people and delivered them after 400 years of bondage in Egypt; passing them through the Red Sea. Not all Israel is Israel however. ( Romans 9:6-7). Some argue this represents Baptism; holding those under the covenant parents make on behalf of their children at infancy. Whatever the case; when we become church members; we make a vow or covenant as to our service toward other believers. In fact when we first come to Christ; it should be looked at as a Covenant. Christ has fulfilled everything in the finished work on the cross on our behalf; but is only EFFECTIVE if we are truly saved. God makes us willing ( Psalm 110:3) and He gives the gift of repentance. ( 2 Timothy 2:25 and several other references). If we truly are saved we will love God and of course keep His commandments ( John 14:15). This involves obedience toward Christ and Him being Lord Savior AND Master of our lives.
When we make a church vow as members we affirm our faith in Christ; and our commitment to the body of Christ (prayer and fellowship). In Pittsburgh one of the things my pastor did annually was print out our vow as a reminder which I think is a good thing. This naturally encompasses the discipline of rebuking a brother and going through necessary disciplinary measures if personal resolution cannot be accomplished. If leadership is guilty and the congregation doesn't corroborate clearly evident apostasy or sin then we must disfellowship. I went through a specific issue that I won't elaborate on now with an elder after discussion with the Pastor in a previous church; eventually I left; so I've been there. This as with a marriage involves the same principal; we always seek reconciliation but separation may be needed at times. We are all part of covenant fellowship with all true Christians.
Greetings Stewart, peace from God our Father and our Lord Jesus Christ.
I understand what you mean, a few people think I'm "crazy" because I take the whole bible literal. I know some passages are symbolic etc. But when Jesus said to the the rich man ( Matthew 19:21) "Jesus said unto him, If thou wilt be perfect, go and sell that thou hast, and give to the poor, and thou shalt have treasure in heaven: and come and follow me." I took this literal. My PC and TV is all that I own and I only use it to study. Stay off youtube etc. ( Matthew 24:23) "Then if any man shall say unto you, Lo, here is Christ, or there; believe it not." Instead continue to ( 2 Timothy 2:15) "Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth."
Resurrection, when the dead in Christ rise first. Who will teach during Tribulation? I am praying and 'quit the sin business' a preacher said once. So I can be found worthy to escape these things ( Revelation 4:1 - Revelation 19:11-21 ) Grace, Salvation and the Holy Spirit does remain before during and for some after Tribulation. When sharing those scriptures, it was a reply but I realize now I did not reply to the post. Advice taken is a wise thing to do, so I am all ears or in this case eyes, God Bless. We got to help each other, even if I am wrong . But we must not strife but get it right with each other out of love for one another. 2 Timothy 2:15-18 was just something I shared, to encourage others that we should not argue. Heb 3:15 God Bless you for that and continue to.
Good evening Stewart! I appreciate bringing the 2 Timothy 2:18 verse to my attention. This brings up a question. Who continues to teach purely that the resurrection is today ( Hebrews 3:15 ) durning the time of the seven years in heaven that you mentioned in another post?
There is zero pressure to respond, I am meditating on this with you.
You most certainly can, otherwise we could live a life of sin and go to Heaven. But it ain't the case, we got to cut the sin out. Grace from God in Prayer through Jesus Christ our Salvation and the Holy Spirit. When a Christian commits a sin, he/she trangesses the law. When we ask for forgiveness of our sins, We Pray to God Our Father, anything you ask Him ask in my Name Jesus said. So anytime we pray, we have to ask in the Name of Jesus Christ, the Son of God. And the Holy Spirit.
When someone sins, they say without saying to GOD that they don't have faith in Him. When God says He will lead a way of escape, not giving you too much you can't handle. And we can do all things through Christ, we just got to do our part and RESIST the temptations of the devil and he will flee.
Romans 6:23
"For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord."
But like the Prodigal son or the lost sheep. If you do sin, repent and go forth and sin no more. Grace and Salvation will always be there for those who want it. So ya, you can lose your salvation, which is to be saved from sin. When one is in sin, they like I said above ask God in prayer for forgiveness...
We just got to keep away from the sin business as a Pastor once said. If you stumble, get up, keep on striving.
I encourage you to look up a fella who since passed away. His name Finis Dake, we got to get rid of that idea that the Bible is hard to understand. Basic Bible teaching, made me realize English is a peculiar language. God Bless and Keep on striving, being Christlike in anything you do.
2 Timothy 2:15 Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.
John is speaking to believers who are in the progressional stages of "sanctification of the Spirit unto obedience & sprinkling of the Blood of Jesus". they're learning & putting on Christ in ever increasing measures, yet they have not yet attain to the baptismal of Christ were self is crucified & they are "dead unto sin" but are in the working out of their salvation with fear & trembling, revealing the true fear of the Lord is working within their hearts, to depart from all evil.
In this ever increasing measures of growth in Christ/Grace/Light/Spirit 1John 1:8 is refer too, John commands them to 1John 2:1 keep repenting, remaining tender to the motions of His Spirit, with a heart devoted to the fear of the Lord until the appointed time of the Father when we are baptize with the baptismal of Christ, " thoroughly purged". We having experientially learnt the struggles of Rom 6 & 7 and have been brought to Rom 8:1,2 & their is no condemnation because His Word has
Isa 55:11, go & sin no more, we have been brought through 1Pet 5:10 in Christ, born again of the Incorruptible Seed & thus become incorruptible too, by the Cross/ Spirit / Grace / Light shining in our hearts & received John 1:12
through all these experiences in the working out of our salvation & in our continuing to perfecting of holiness in the love & fear of God, ever growing in Grace, we can say with John, 1John 1:1-3
a very important subject here in both topics, faith & suffering
1.Faith, we all know that Rom 10:17, Paul earlier says it is Rom 10:8 he's not talking about the letter here
But John 6:63 The Grace / Light that appears in the heart bringing salvation to all mankind Hebrews 9:28 that wait on Him.
Believing that it is He, speaking to us & His first works within us is teaching us to deny all ungodliness & the learning of righteousness
Paul says in Gal 3:2 so there's an increase of His Spirit as we received His judgement of sin & instruction in righteousness.
Here is Power offered to overcome all sin. For He who show us our sin, will not only take them away, but power is given to preserve from repeating the sin. There is one requirement, a truly contrite & broke heart birth through godly sorrow for the offense. This is saving faith produce by the Spirit, True faith purifies the heart, cleanses the vessel 2 Timothy 2:21
2.Suffering 2Timothy 3:12
As we look through both Testaments, we see a common thread, the suffering of the faithful
Paul by the Spirit call them 2Cor 4:17 which suffering brings a far more eternal weigh of glory
Hebrews 11:35,38 attain a better resurrection, whom the world was not worthy of.
We must have a renewing of our minds as Paul contiu.. 2Cor 4:18
What an encouragement on this side of the grave, & the reward is eternal,
Folks,
lets pick up our Cross & follow Jesus, He merciful & faithfully cleanses us from all unrighteousness, takes away our sins against Him, continually increases us with His Spirit alone the Way, until we are baptize unto His death, being dead unto sin, baptizes us in His Spirit, each one fitted in the body according to His gifts, we enter into the fellowship of His suffering (He's there with us ) therefore we experience the Power of His resurrection, & He never leaves us or forsakes us.
Then rewards us for what He alone done through us, what a deal, Come on!
As we recognize the dire situation in our country as in the current reading; let us also recognize that each of us may become that "... man among them, that should make up the hedge, and stand in the gap before me for the land, that I should not destroy it:"
Let us agree to walk with the LORD and put forth HIS will and commandments first by carrying out HIS promises.
1- Let us confess and repent of our own sins. 1 John 1:9
2- Ephesians 2:8-10 Remember we are ordained to do good works!
3- 2 Peter 3:9 love the lost
4- Matthew 28:18-20 Go make disciples
5- 2 Timothy 2:15 Study HIS word
6- 2 Timothy 3:16, 17 Love, and apply HIS word
7- 1 Timothy 2: 1-4 pray for "...all that are in authority..."
8- Romans 10:1, 2 cultivate the desire and pray to GOD that all might be saved
This is in no particular order and not exhaustive by any means. I am sure the brethren on this forum are able and capable to add to it to the glory and praise of the LORD.
Titus 2:11-14 for while we wait and looking for that blessed hope; for HIS
glorious appearing may we be "...Teaching us that, denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, we should live soberly, righteously, and godly, in this present world;"
Our hope must be only in CHRIST and no one else. GOD to shine HIS face on all who are on this forum and gloriously bless your situation.
I am trying with this subject not to go to the extreme of saying that anything we do can save ourselves. What I will say is that what we do can bring us into condemnation at least until He truly lives within us; and we are truly saved. I will also state that EVERY step to salvation is inspired by the Holy Spirit. Even hearing the message which has the potential to bring someone to salvation is confined to this life; we don't get any second chances after we die.
We all start out in this life hearing the Gospel message and responding one way or another. We have to ask how the Spirit works in each part of the process. I will state that scripture seems to make it clear that even if we don't understand the mysteries of the church and how the Spirit indwells someone who is a believer prior to salvation no one in hell from all scripture we see on the subject is there without sins convicting their consciences in this life. Hearing the Word causes a reaction for anyone hearing it; whether believing or rejecting it. One can come to Christ after hearing the Word multiple times (as I did) but the person once they hear it and understand in their minds cannot say they are unaware of the basic truths of the Gospel; that is if presented correctly. I believe that true repentance only comes from the Lord but as 2 Corinthians 7:10 states that repentance leads TO salvation (see also 2 Timothy 2:25 on God GRANTING repentance). Logically; a person must HEAR the word; then have true repentance and then act on it. I would argue at that stage repentance first involves a DESIRE then definite ACTION to turn away from sin; and more importantly our former LIFESTYLE of sin. Also; a true believer continues in the faith until the end; but for some that involves God having to severely discipline a person; and as Corinthians states; some have "fallen asleep" taking communion unworthily; others are given over to Satan but still saved.
If the day didn't matter why did God (Jesus) specifically command the Sabbath or the seventh day to be our day to rest like He did and emphasis it by telling us to remember it and then turn around when He was incarnate and discount it or change His mind about something so important?
A real day of rest, which is what God commanded, would be a real blessing for us. It rejuvenates the mind, body and soul. It gives us the opportunity to set the things of the world, work, even troubles, aside and gives us a full day to give God and family our undivided attention so we can just relax in the Lord. Fellowship with friends is good on the Sabbath also giving them real time and attention, not just a few minutes after church or sitting in a crowded, noisy restaurant.
That said, 2 Timothy 2:15 "Study to shew theyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed rightly dividing the word of truth." is one of the most important scriptures we can read and obey, I believe. There are to many people telling us this and that and the other thing, including myself, so believers need to learn what God says about anything themself by studying and trusting the Holy Spirit to show them what God's will is. God Bless :)
Worshiping God is wonderful for the believer any day, any time whether on your own or in fellowship. The 4th commandment, although, addressed to Israel at the time God gave them, where for ALL of Gods children and that is proven by the fact that we obey them still today, except the 4th. The 4th commandment only asks that we set one day (Sabbath; Saturday) for a rest for our minds, bodies, and souls. Since most of the world worships on Sunday this is not breaking the 4th commandment, unfortunately though, people have also determined that that will be their day of rest also, despite the commandment is for Saturday. But putting days of the week aside, we need to have one day of real rest a week. God commanded it and specifically said "remember it" for us so that we, as believers, would make it a true day of rest. Mostly now Saturdays are for chores and errands and hopefully after worship on Sunday the person or family relaxes and rest at home. But if chores or errands weren't finished on Saturday it usually gets finished on Sunday because people attribute the Sabbath as only a day of worship now when, in fact as I said, there is nothing in the commandment that is about worship. It is such a blessing that you are a believer in Christ and have given your heart and life only to Him. Be glad and rejoice. Study your bible diligently for your answers as we are told to do in 2 Timothy 2:15 one of the most important verses in the bible, in my opinion.
God Bless:)
Scripture tells us Jesus returns only one time, Zachariah 14:4 Matthew 24:30 Acts 1:11 1 Thessalonians 4:16-17 Hebrews 9:28 Rev. 1:7 Rev. 6:15-16. When Jesus returns those who are chosen and faithful are resurrected to reign on earth with Jesus, Rev. 17:14 Daniel 2:44 Daniel 7:26-27 2 Timothy 2:12 Rev. 5:10 Rev. 11:15.
This reign on earth begins after the tribulation and the armies of Satan, the beast, the false prophet, and the ten kings/countries of the beast who destroy mystery Babylon come to battle Jesus in the battle of Armageddon, Zachariah 14:1-3 Ezekiel 39:17-22 Rev. 19:17-19 Rev. 16:13-16. In Rev. 20 we see Satan bound and sealed in the bottomless pit for 1000 years. Jesus then sets up the Kingdom on earth and we see the judgment of those in the first resurrection who will be reigning with Jesus on earth for 1000 years Rev. 20:4-6.
The 1000-year Kingdom will be on the earth, but it will be very different from the world today without the temptation of Satan, Isaiah 65:25 Zechariah 14:16 It will be a time when Lord Jesus and those chosen to rule the nations with an iron rod so that all the promises of God be fulfilled, all the boundaries of land God promised Abraham have never been, Genesis 15:18-20 Numbers 34:1-12 but they will in the future.
We know from Rev. 20:7-10, that there will be nations after the 1000 years that Satan will go out to deceive and bring them together to battle. After this battle, a fire burns up the earth and Satan is cast into the lake of fire, "the earth and the heaven fled away" The final Judgment of the white throne is not just for the lost, and all in this judgment who is not found in the Book of Life will be cast into the lake of fire, Rev. 20:11-15, Daniel 12:2 Matthew 25:32-46 John 5:28-29.
God bless,
RLW
I think one of the absolutely most vital verses to read and understand is 2 Timothy 2:15. "Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed rightly dividing the word of truth." (KJB) Don't you agree? Do you believe the Word is from God for each one of us to read and study so we can understand what God is telling us? Do you believe God is telling us to study for ourselves, to know what God is wanting from us so we can have eternal life? Do you believe God has given all the scripture to us by the power of the Holy Ghost to admonishes us to know His will so we can find our way to heaven? Do you believe that once you begin to study with an open heart and mind that you will find delight in God's word? I am a child of God not a Catholic or a Protestant or a part of any kind of religion, just a child of God. God doesn't care about titles. So, what is really true when it comes to the human soul and having a promise of eternal life with God? Isn't that what matters? It's easier to just go along and accept what other's may tell you to believe but in the end it will be devastating for your soul if they are wrong. We, as God's creation, can have an assured hope of heaven if we would find the truth on our own, what God has planned for us from the very beginning. God became man in the person of Jesus Christ so His divine blood could be the ultimate sacrifice for our sins. He didn't intend for it to be any other way. His death and return to heaven was all He decided was needed for us to have salvation. He gave His word for us to find our way to the true Him and how to become born again. I hope there will be those who will give, what you read here, some serious thought and take it to heart. The Holy Ghost wrote the bible, He will help you understand it. Just ask Him to.
Part Two: The battle of the mind.
In my last post; I ran out of space again; but was getting into the verse where Jesus told Satan to get behind him when Peter was stating that basically going to the cross was not fit for Jesus to do. This shows how Christ expects us as His disciples to rely totally on the Spirit to allow the flesh to be dead. Luke 4:8 is the other verse where Jesus says this to Satan after the temptations in the wilderness. We see a difference between Peter then and after Pentecost as Jesus foretold after he denied knowing him. In all fairness since ALL the disciples ran off their fear for their lives superseded their love for Christ. This truly shows how only trust in the Spirit of God will enable us to face death with courage should it be in the time and place God has chosen. As I have said before it is the end of a life of obedience that Christ and in fact all the Disciples except for John met their fate; the spiritual man grows and matures through self denial and service to that point.
Our thought processes are determined merely by our old man at birth. Thus characteristic behaviors and routines develop which tend to linger with us even post salvation. There are; of course the affects of nurturing vs cruel parents; abundance or poverty in youth which the Lord is aware of but also weigh in on the enemy's game plan. Of course with the mind along with everything else the enemy attacks us with the easiest thing to do is be determined to TRUST God and reject any thought which isn't captive to His (God's) will ( 2 Corinthians 10:5); compare with 2 Timothy 2:26. We learn to recognize the enemy's patterns after hopefully only a few similar assaults at our weakest points. We learn to discern the Spirit of God which is outside of self from Satan's devices; which always appeals to the flesh and exalting self. RUN IF IT GOES AGAINST SCRIPTURE!
Welcome to the site, what comes to mind is 2 Timothy 2:15-16, truth only comes from the Spirit of Truth, not our mind which is full of preconceived thoughts that blind our eyes, plug our ears, and block the truth.
God bless,
RLW
Part 4 Trinity discussion.
Do you believe that the will of the Father and the will of the Son are always the same or different?
Jesus was obedient to the Father, Jesus said many times it is not His will but the will of the Father who sent Him, the same as we are to do, John 4:34 John 5:30 Mark 3:35.
Do you believe that a human being can truly save all men from sin and death by a perfect life in their own will?
First, I will have to say it was the will of the Father, Jesus at the end even asked His father if there was another way but not Jesus's will but the will of His Father, Matthew 26:39 Luke 22:42. We are told this is the foundation of our faith, Jesus' sacrificial death. God cannot die God is Spirit He has no blood to shed for sin it had to be a man, His Son, born of a woman.
John 3:16 God gave His Son not Himself 1 John 2:22 1 John 4:3 2 John 1:7 Romans 5:8 2 Corinthians 5:21, God cannot be made sin, 1 Corinthians 15:17 Jesus died, and God raised Him from the dead, the first man to live a perfect life, the first fruits of those who sleep in death. 1 Corinthians 15:14 as said if Jesus was not a man who lived a perfect life and died and was raised from the dead all is vain.
The first Adam was the first man Jesus was the last Adam and the second man, 1 Corinthians 15:45-47. 1 Corinthians 15:21 For since by man came death, by man came also the resurrection of the dead. The law had to be fulfilled by a man.
How would a human being know that they are the Messiah from birth and thus know not to ever sin?
As we see Luke 2:51-52 Jesus grew up increasing in wisdom and stature in favor with God and man. Jesus was twelve years old and He knew His father was God, but it doesn't say Jesus knew then He was to be the Messiah. God also said He would raise up unto thee a Prophet from the midst of thee, Deuteronomy 18:15, Isaiah 11:1-5 Isaiah 61:1-2 confirmed in Luke 4:18-21. Romans 1:1-4 2 Timothy 2:8.
See part 5
Rebuke these people as Jesus did when the devil tried to tempt him while He was in the wilderness. Mathew 4: 1-11. Stand up to them with scripture but, also showing them love and kindness; the unconditional love of Christ. You do need to belong to Jesus for this to work for you. If you have become a new creature in CHRIST and CHRIST alone and God your Father and Jesus your Savior are the only ones you pray to then, be brave, be strong and trust God with your whole heart, soul and mind and He will send these demonic people out of your life and they will leave you alone.
Luke 26:69/ Exodus 3:14.
To know Christ and to make Him known is the theme of the Navigators ministry and correlates with 1 John and other passages.
This is a good summary of understanding the personal meaning of Christ's sacrifice on the cross for atonement as well as our duties fulfilling our part in the Great Commission.
I imagine most here know the necessary doctrines of believing Christ is a member of the Godhead and thus Divinity Himself who was the only one who could atone for sins (as the sinless spotless Lamb of God) by becoming a man as we are without sin and remaining so throughout His earthly ministry; then dying on the cross and resurrecting from the dead 3 days later. Finally; He is to return once again physically to rule and reign on the earth.
2 Timothy 2:8 and 2 Thessalonians 2:2 show we should avoid the error of stating that the resurrection has already occurred or the day of the Lord is at hand. Matthew 24:26 states that the Lord hasn't come yet for those who say He is hiding somewhere and also states the likeness of His arrival as lightning in the very next verse. This should be enough to disclaim what Preterists state that the Lord has already come. Therefore I would contend that full Preterists that state this are far enough off in doctrine that we should avoid fellowship with them.
Assuming we have the essentials of salvation straightened out; there are many other warnings and admonitions in scripture such as testing ourselves to see if we are in the faith would involve ( 2 Corinthians 13:5). We need to accept that doctrines aren't just what is required to be saved; but also what is necessary to prove that we are bringing fruits worthy of repentance ( Matthew 3:8 and many other similar verses). We are not subject to the law in some sense IF we are truly dead to sin ( Romans 6:11) in one sense; because we have a new nature; but in the same token we DESIRE to obey Christ and love and serve Him as Lord; Master and Savior.
Prov. 13:24 "He that spareth his ROD hateth his son: but he that loveth him CHASTENETH him betimes" (in good time).
ROD: SHEBET (SHAY-BET) STICK
CHASEN: MUSAR (MOO0SAWR') REPROOF, WARNING. Discipline, however, doesn't have to always be a spanking. MY daughter babysat for two little girls. One was very active and the other one loved just sitting and reading a book all day. If the first one was misbehaving my daughter would make her just sit in a chair staring at the wall for a time, this was punishment to her. If the other one needed discipling my daughter made her go outside and ride her bike or roller skate, or something like that for a time. It worked very well. There really is a lot to learn about the discipling of a child but God can lead you to people who can help. Just be sure their advise is biblical. I hope this helps a little and I will be praying. God Bless :)
1. Payment of the redemption; illustrated with the "Kinsman-Redeemer" situation between Boaz and Ruth in the book of Ruth. This is the first visible action from the Lord only when one comes to salvation; it was predetermined in the counsel of God before the foundation of the world ( Eph. 1:4; 1 Peter 1:20).
2. Repentance being granted. This is also mentioned in Acts 11:18 and 2 Timothy 2:25.
3. Confession by the mouth as a result of believing in the heart ( Romans 10:9-13). This is an action of response to God's saving grace.
There is no other way or method to salvation but by God's prescribed measure of believing on the Son ( Matt. 11:27)
My earlier statements should by no means detract from the importance of emulating external actions which are outflows of GOOD FRUIT in our lives. 1 Corinthians 11:1 (easy to memorize with this numbering) gives Paul's exhortation to imitate him as he imitates Christ. Demonstrations of such behaviors are much like a parent to a child in this case. How we need such examples in church leadership today! How many of these mega pastors live even close to Paul who would work for himself so as not to burden the churches and suffer as he did with deprivation and imprisonment for the cause of Christ?
We are not to idolize people but those of Godly character should motivate us; and also bring the fear of the Lord and His holiness to unbelievers as Paul did with the prison guard ( Acts 16:30-33). Our lifestyles must back up our words.
May we add daily unto our knowledge and wise application the attributes and character of our GOD the LORD JESUS. Colossians 3; 2 Peter 1
(many more)
Numbers 6
24 The LORD bless thee, and keep thee:
25 The LORD make his face shine upon thee, and be gracious unto thee:
26 The LORD lift up his countenance upon thee, and give thee peace.
27 And they shall put my name upon the children of Israel; and I will bless them.
Happy New Year everyone!
December 30, 2023
Ephesians 2: 4-9
May we all celebrate and worship our KING, the LORD JESUS CHRIST by serving HIM as scripture dictates us to do.
By prayer... 1 Timothy 2:1-4
By making disciples... Matthew 28:19, 20
To study ... 2 Timothy 2:15
To know the LORD.. 2 Timothy 3:16, 17
Any many more scriptures to help us to grow in HIM.
Merry Christmas to all the brethren, the LORD to shine HIS glorious face upon us.
December 25, 2023
So let us enjoy the time we have to celebrate and declare HIS salvation with HIS blood shed on the cross.
Then there is a debate regarding HIS resurrection.
2 Corinthians 4:
3 But if our gospel be hid, it is hid to them that are lost
May we live our lives showing that our GOD lives. We can show this by being obedient and true to HIS word. 2 Timothy 2:15; 3: 16, 17
Merry Christmas to all; and
Numbers 6
24 The LORD bless thee, and keep thee:
25 The LORD make his face shine upon thee, and be gracious unto thee:
Luke 2
11 For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord.
12 And this shall be a sign unto you; Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger.
Have a great time with family and friends!
December 23, 2023
According to Isaiah 65:20 the man who dies at 100 will be considered a youth and before 100 cursed. This shows the reason for death during the Millennium; it would seem that the lifespan will reach 1000 emulating those who lived well into their 900s according to several accounts in Genesis in the Antidiluvian world. Proof of the Millennium is also found in verses such as Zechariah 14:17 for those who would argue that once the Lord returns that is it and we go immediately into eternity; where death clearly doesn't exist anymore ( 1 Cor. 15:55-57 coming from a passage in Hosea in the O.T.)
The idea of the necessity of a temple at that time makes sense; therefore for several reasons. There would need to be a ceremonial cleansing to be in the presence of Christ and probably us in glorified bodies; not for sin but because of our still corrupted and inferior bodies for those who survive the Tribulation and come to worship there. There are subtle differences as to frequency of sacrifices and a few other details in the temple mentioned in the last few chapters of Ezekiel from the O.T. standards. The external ceremony honoring the Lord; and it fulfilling its role as a place for prayer for all nations ( Isaiah 56:7; quoted by Christ when cleansing the Temple in the N.T.) will bring together these individuals with us; the glorified saints who are given authority to rule and reign with Christ ( 2 Timothy 2:12; etal).
The Gospel; as I have stated rather often at this forum will never be the same by the sixth seal in Revelation forward. There will be no need to preach about who Christ is; or what we are supposed to do although it will be a wonderful truth to share with the natural born children at that time. The warnings about testing ourselves to see if we are in the faith; however certainly will be vital ( 2 Cor. 13:5). Many will believe but sadly ( Rev. 20:8) will rebel and be lost.
From what the Word tells me about the Work of the Spirit, is that a truly saved person, though subject to correction will be kept by HIS Power & not ours: 1 Peter 1:3-5 "Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, which according to his abundant mercy HATH begotten us again unto a lively hope by the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, TO an inheritance incorruptible, and undefiled, and that fadeth NOT away, RESERVED in heaven for you, Who are KEPT by the power of God through faith unto salvation ready to be revealed in the last time." All of God's Work & according to His Promise; or else, we can be popping in & out of salvation (re-birth) at will, making mockery of God's faultless & unfailing work.
Thank you for the testimony of you & your husband's 'salvation', your departure from the Lord & subsequent joyful return. I think many of us can testify similarly of such an experience - but in each case, we have to rely on God's Work & Word & the knowledge that "the foundation of God standeth sure, having this SEAL, The Lord KNOWETH them that are his. And, Let everyone that nameth the name of Christ depart from iniquity" ( 2 Timothy 2:19). I believe that those whom the Lord seals (& He alone knows them by name), can never be un-sealed. As in your case, or even with me, having at one stage left the Lord & enjoyed the world's offerings, & then returned, it is the Lord's application of His Work in our lives - and this Work usually testifies well through personal testimony. Blessings.
To avoid them, you have to know who they are. You can't avoid somebody if you don't know who they are. This idea of identifying and avoiding shows up in
1 Corinthians 5:11;
2 Thessalonians 3:6,
2 Thessalonians 3:14;
2 Timothy 3:5;
2 John 1:10.
In other words, Christians, and shepherds in particular, should be discerning and alert to behavior and teaching that dishonors Christ and destroys people - and not treat it in a casual or harmless way.
And then in 1 Timothy 5:19-20, Paul went beyond just "avoid them" to "rebuke them publicly." So, speaking of elders who persist in error, he said, "Do not admit a charge against an elder except on the evidence of two or three witnesses. As for those who persist in sin" - and that can be sin of false doctrine or sin of evil behavior, anyone who does not accept correction - "rebuke them in the presence of all, so that the rest may stand in fear.."
And then Paul went on and actually named destructive false teachers:
"Demas, in love with this present world, has deserted me" 2 Timothy 4:10.
You are aware that all who are in Asia turned away from me, among whom are Phygelus and Hermogenes" 2 Timothy 1:15.
"By rejecting this [faith and a good conscience], some have made shipwreck of their faith, among whom are Hymenaeus and Alexander" 1 Timothy 1:19-20.
"Their talk will spread like gangrene. Among them are Hymenaeus and Philetus" ( 2 Timothy 2:17).
Paul names at least six false teachers that the church should watch out for.
So, I infer from Jesus and Paul and Luke and John that false teaching and destructive behavior are present dangers in this fallen world for the church. And all of us - especially shepherds, pastors - should be alert and discerning to identify and, in appropriate ways, expose. In order to protect the flock, we should expose them and minimize the spread of the gangrene (as Paul calls it).
AVOID, REBUKE, AND CALL OUT.
God bless
2 Timothy 2:15
James 2:
10 For whosoever shall keep the whole law, and yet offend in one point, he is guilty of all.
Romans 4:
2 For if Abraham were justified by works, he hath whereof to glory; but not before God.
3 For what saith the scripture? Abraham believed God, and it was counted unto him for righteousness.
4 Now to him that worketh is the reward not reckoned of grace, but of debt.
5 But to him that worketh not, but believeth on him that justifieth the ungodly, his faith is counted for righteousness.
Ephesians 2:
8 For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God:
9 Not of works, lest any man should boast.
Titus 3:
4 But after that the kindness and love of God our Saviour toward man appeared,
5 Not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to his mercy he saved us, by the washing of regeneration, and renewing of the Holy Ghost;
6 Which he shed on us abundantly through Jesus Christ our Saviour;
7 That being justified by his grace, we should be made heirs according to the hope of eternal life.
May we be intercessors in CHRIST name, Isaiah 59:16, for those who have been blinded by the god of this world, 2 Corinthians 4:3, 4.
We are called to stand in the gap for others, Ezekiel 22:30, and plant the seed of the word that others may water and that GOD will give the increase.
Acts 15:
8 And God, which knoweth the hearts, bare them witness, giving them the Holy Ghost, even as he did unto us;
9 And put no difference between us and them, purifying their hearts by faith.
10 Now therefore why tempt ye God, to put a yoke upon the neck of the disciples, which neither our fathers nor we were able to bear?
11 But we believe that through the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ we shall be saved, even as they.
Salvation is by faith in CHRIST alone.
GOD bless everyone!
1 Corinthians 10:4 talks about everyone drinking from the same spiritual rock and the Rock was Christ. God made a covenant with His chosen people and delivered them after 400 years of bondage in Egypt; passing them through the Red Sea. Not all Israel is Israel however. ( Romans 9:6-7). Some argue this represents Baptism; holding those under the covenant parents make on behalf of their children at infancy. Whatever the case; when we become church members; we make a vow or covenant as to our service toward other believers. In fact when we first come to Christ; it should be looked at as a Covenant. Christ has fulfilled everything in the finished work on the cross on our behalf; but is only EFFECTIVE if we are truly saved. God makes us willing ( Psalm 110:3) and He gives the gift of repentance. ( 2 Timothy 2:25 and several other references). If we truly are saved we will love God and of course keep His commandments ( John 14:15). This involves obedience toward Christ and Him being Lord Savior AND Master of our lives.
When we make a church vow as members we affirm our faith in Christ; and our commitment to the body of Christ (prayer and fellowship). In Pittsburgh one of the things my pastor did annually was print out our vow as a reminder which I think is a good thing. This naturally encompasses the discipline of rebuking a brother and going through necessary disciplinary measures if personal resolution cannot be accomplished. If leadership is guilty and the congregation doesn't corroborate clearly evident apostasy or sin then we must disfellowship. I went through a specific issue that I won't elaborate on now with an elder after discussion with the Pastor in a previous church; eventually I left; so I've been there. This as with a marriage involves the same principal; we always seek reconciliation but separation may be needed at times. We are all part of covenant fellowship with all true Christians.
I understand what you mean, a few people think I'm "crazy" because I take the whole bible literal. I know some passages are symbolic etc. But when Jesus said to the the rich man ( Matthew 19:21) "Jesus said unto him, If thou wilt be perfect, go and sell that thou hast, and give to the poor, and thou shalt have treasure in heaven: and come and follow me." I took this literal. My PC and TV is all that I own and I only use it to study. Stay off youtube etc. ( Matthew 24:23) "Then if any man shall say unto you, Lo, here is Christ, or there; believe it not." Instead continue to ( 2 Timothy 2:15) "Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth."
Grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you.
There is zero pressure to respond, I am meditating on this with you.
Carleton
When someone sins, they say without saying to GOD that they don't have faith in Him. When God says He will lead a way of escape, not giving you too much you can't handle. And we can do all things through Christ, we just got to do our part and RESIST the temptations of the devil and he will flee.
Romans 6:23
"For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord."
But like the Prodigal son or the lost sheep. If you do sin, repent and go forth and sin no more. Grace and Salvation will always be there for those who want it. So ya, you can lose your salvation, which is to be saved from sin. When one is in sin, they like I said above ask God in prayer for forgiveness...
We just got to keep away from the sin business as a Pastor once said. If you stumble, get up, keep on striving.
I encourage you to look up a fella who since passed away. His name Finis Dake, we got to get rid of that idea that the Bible is hard to understand. Basic Bible teaching, made me realize English is a peculiar language. God Bless and Keep on striving, being Christlike in anything you do.
2 Timothy 2:15 Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.
Jesse A, is right,
John is speaking to believers who are in the progressional stages of "sanctification of the Spirit unto obedience & sprinkling of the Blood of Jesus". they're learning & putting on Christ in ever increasing measures, yet they have not yet attain to the baptismal of Christ were self is crucified & they are "dead unto sin" but are in the working out of their salvation with fear & trembling, revealing the true fear of the Lord is working within their hearts, to depart from all evil.
In this ever increasing measures of growth in Christ/Grace/Light/Spirit 1John 1:8 is refer too, John commands them to 1John 2:1 keep repenting, remaining tender to the motions of His Spirit, with a heart devoted to the fear of the Lord until the appointed time of the Father when we are baptize with the baptismal of Christ, " thoroughly purged". We having experientially learnt the struggles of Rom 6 & 7 and have been brought to Rom 8:1,2 & their is no condemnation because His Word has
Isa 55:11, go & sin no more, we have been brought through 1Pet 5:10 in Christ, born again of the Incorruptible Seed & thus become incorruptible too, by the Cross/ Spirit / Grace / Light shining in our hearts & received John 1:12
through all these experiences in the working out of our salvation & in our continuing to perfecting of holiness in the love & fear of God, ever growing in Grace, we can say with John, 1John 1:1-3
Oh, praise the Lord, Psalms 62:5 Proverbs 23:18
2 Timothy 2:19 Psalms 93:5 " who houses we are"
the LORD, strengthen & encourage you
a very important subject here in both topics, faith & suffering
1.Faith, we all know that Rom 10:17, Paul earlier says it is Rom 10:8 he's not talking about the letter here
But John 6:63 The Grace / Light that appears in the heart bringing salvation to all mankind Hebrews 9:28 that wait on Him.
Believing that it is He, speaking to us & His first works within us is teaching us to deny all ungodliness & the learning of righteousness
Paul says in Gal 3:2 so there's an increase of His Spirit as we received His judgement of sin & instruction in righteousness.
Here is Power offered to overcome all sin. For He who show us our sin, will not only take them away, but power is given to preserve from repeating the sin. There is one requirement, a truly contrite & broke heart birth through godly sorrow for the offense. This is saving faith produce by the Spirit, True faith purifies the heart, cleanses the vessel 2 Timothy 2:21
2.Suffering 2Timothy 3:12
As we look through both Testaments, we see a common thread, the suffering of the faithful
Paul by the Spirit call them 2Cor 4:17 which suffering brings a far more eternal weigh of glory
Hebrews 11:35,38 attain a better resurrection, whom the world was not worthy of.
We must have a renewing of our minds as Paul contiu.. 2Cor 4:18
What an encouragement on this side of the grave, & the reward is eternal,
Folks,
lets pick up our Cross & follow Jesus, He merciful & faithfully cleanses us from all unrighteousness, takes away our sins against Him, continually increases us with His Spirit alone the Way, until we are baptize unto His death, being dead unto sin, baptizes us in His Spirit, each one fitted in the body according to His gifts, we enter into the fellowship of His suffering (He's there with us ) therefore we experience the Power of His resurrection, & He never leaves us or forsakes us.
Then rewards us for what He alone done through us, what a deal, Come on!
Jesse you inspire me, thank you
Let us agree to walk with the LORD and put forth HIS will and commandments first by carrying out HIS promises.
1- Let us confess and repent of our own sins. 1 John 1:9
2- Ephesians 2:8-10 Remember we are ordained to do good works!
3- 2 Peter 3:9 love the lost
4- Matthew 28:18-20 Go make disciples
5- 2 Timothy 2:15 Study HIS word
6- 2 Timothy 3:16, 17 Love, and apply HIS word
7- 1 Timothy 2: 1-4 pray for "...all that are in authority..."
8- Romans 10:1, 2 cultivate the desire and pray to GOD that all might be saved
This is in no particular order and not exhaustive by any means. I am sure the brethren on this forum are able and capable to add to it to the glory and praise of the LORD.
Titus 2:11-14 for while we wait and looking for that blessed hope; for HIS
glorious appearing may we be "...Teaching us that, denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, we should live soberly, righteously, and godly, in this present world;"
Our hope must be only in CHRIST and no one else. GOD to shine HIS face on all who are on this forum and gloriously bless your situation.
September 19, 2023