The "Prosperity Gospel" is what I have heard it called. It certainly isn't based off the Bible and can be easily debunked. The scripture that comes to my mind is 2 Timothy 4:3. Those type of pastors tell people whatever they want to hear, and people like it, thus they pay for that type of ministry and gospel. The are charismatic pastors and people lend them their resources, thus they gain prominence and prestige.
It is as Bennymkje said. God knows those who belong to him. We all will stand before the judgement seat of God. They are having their reward in full now, because if they are indeed judged to have been mishandling the word of God......it won't be good.
Also, just as Jesus said. If we remain in his word, we will know the truth and the truth will set us free. ( John 8:31,32)
This amazingly started on a previous post where Paul was said to not be saved or atleast "not yet"
Paul said he was saved. If he didn't make it we're in trouble!
Paul said he was a master builder, and he helped lay the foundation which we are to build on.
Paul said a crown was laid up in heaven for him. 2 Timothy 4:7-8.
We have faults in our walk down here on earth tho we thrive for perfection.
Our thriving is evident we are not perfect. Another way we know we're not is that we die.
God requirements is perfection. If you ever sinned it's already to late if you feel you can come from under the atonement of the LORD.
We're left "Naked" without "CHRIST RIGHTEOUSNESS"
The Idea that you and I can be wrong about any matter suggests that we are not perfect.
How could this same corrupted person that struggle "WITHIN" judge anything to correct it to a degree he or she cannot reach? ( God's Holiness that we cannot fully comprehend)
Ignorance is no excuse!!
Only given an earnest of the Spirit can we fully comprehend the Holiness of God? No!
Today, and foe many years now, Preachers don't preach and acknowledge the truth about sin, and everlasting hell, and they are leading their congregations straight down the wide path to hell! Matthew 25:41James 3:1
We MUST fear God! This is the very beginning of knowledge. Proverbs 1:7
God is Vengeful and He tells us so. Hell is God's way of getting His vengeance. Isaiah 47:3
God knows us better than we could ever imagine. He knows, that if we have NO FEAR to motivate us to change our ways, we will continue in sin. God is also Love. He sacrificed his Son for us so thru Him we can recieved forgivness. He provides His Holy Spirit to break the bonds of sin. Preachers are not helping anyone by not preaching Hell and the fear of God!
If we are still repeatedly sinning..we DO NOT have God's Holy Spirit. Hebrews 10:26 God's Holy Spirit will not let us habitually sin.
Today, most so called Christian Pastors/Preachers are about the money. They don't want to focus on the sin in their congregation, if they do, they will lose their entire congregation. Sinners don't want to hear they are sinners, and they certainly don't want to think or hear about hell, they come to church to feel good about themselves and to be entertained. Churches today are all about making everyone feel good. Sad but true.
Which reminds me of this very powerful verse 2 Timothy 4:3 "For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but after their own lusts shall they heap to themselves teachers, having itching ears;"
Yes, Jesus is God. He is because the Bible says He is, like John 1:1 and many other places. Can someone truly be a Christian and not believe Christ's divinity? Satan deceives even Christians and those deceived seem to remain stubborn and not readily admit they've been conned. It seems no amount of Bible verses even matter at this point. It doesn't matter than 10 says He is God, or 100, they've made up their mind it seems. Jesus's own name Immanuel means "God with us."
Those who seem motivated to campaign against Jesus and attack and try to demean him seem like enemies of Christ. Would someone who loves Jesus do that? The same old tired straw man arguments and flawed human logic is somehow viewed as carrying more weight than the scriptures themselves. Cherry picking and twisting a few verses occurs while ignoring a mountain of clear verses saying Jesus is God, like John 1:1. But as the Bible says in 2 Timothy 4:3-4 people will seek out fables and turn to lies to satisfy their fleshly itching ears. It is disgusting.
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).
Hello Bmccaugh58. The answers to your questions are actually found throughout the Bible (from Genesis to Revelation), because the Bible essentially shows us how far mankind has fallen away from his Creator (because of sin), the repercussions we face from living in such a sinful state, & what God has done to offer correction & help, or else, judgement. So, one merely has to read through the Bible (even in your daily devotions/readings) & will see how people, yes all of us, have done wrong towards God & man & what subsequently entails from that. Some will learn & be corrected & then restored - others will persist in their evil ways & face God's Judgement.
So, here are some passages to start you off, but in your reading of the Bible, God's Spirit will alert you to what you seek or even where some action needs to be taken in your own life.
These are just a very few Scriptures, reminding us that there will always be consequences for our actions, not just in our dealings with each other, but more importantly, as we stand before God. But this God of Love always gives sinful wayward man an escape route, from a life of sin to a life of holiness & love - and His Name is Jesus.
I am a lot like you in many ways. I rid myself of all technology. No phone, vehicle etc. I wanted to go back to roots if you understand what I mean. I only kept my PC so I can try to study the bible and have only recently setup a facebook account a couple of months back so that I can try to "fellowship" with as many different Christians as that is where everyone seems to be and I did not want to ( 1 Corinthians 3:18) "deceive myself". But I am a very cautious and self-aware individual and so I am wary of ( Matthew 7:15) wolves in sheep's clothing while at the same time I don't want to become a fulfillement of the prophecy ( 2 Timothy 4:3) which I feel is actually coming to pass. I want to find that biblical sound doctrine So I know what path I need to walk.
I thank you for your time, patience and guidance and May our Lord God the Father bless you. Peace and love to you in Jesus name.
As humans He created, we cannot attain to His infinite and boundless Holiness, but in Christ we will become perfected in the life to come to have perfect holy humanity without sin any longer. The angels are also holy and without sin, but they are creatures and thus not holy in the sense of being separate
Friend, its not God's holiness that in dispute here, but our inheritance in Christ, now in this life.
The holy, innocent, pure, blameless, unreproachable life of Christ is our inheritance Rom 8:29 becoming partakers of His Divine Nature, the Fruits of His Spirit which against such there is no law, In Christ, the Father withholds nothing of Himself from us, for Luke 12:32
Its is a perfection of holiness that can be added too, as one grows in knowledge & understanding through the appearance of Grace in our hearts 2Cor 4:6,7
It's known, felt, consummated & possess in this life & is rewarded in the next. 2 Timothy 4:7,8
Christ prayer is answered John 17:21-24
Holiness is none other than being engrafted into God, union & oneness with Him in heart, mind & soul, for He along is Holy
This is the greatness of the salvation Christ purchase, that Hebrews declares "ought not to be neglected".
For 1Thessalonians 4:72Thessalonians 2:13,14
G4047 Obtaining: acquisition, possession (the act or the thing); by extension, preservation, peculiar, purchased, possession, saving.
Concerning angels Mark 8:28
G40- most holy, consecrated
They are separated, Rev 19:10 "I am thy fellowservant, & of thy brethren that have the testimony of Jesus, worship God"
Your quote is unscriptural,
you are advocating a life of continuous in sin & repentance for life term, there's no fellowship, union or knowing Him in this state according to Scriptures, this teaching becomes a stumbling block to the babes in Christ, Whom God is leading in the Way of holiness, your directly contradicting the teaching of Christ who says deny self & "sin not" & put on the Lord Jesus Christ.
In his 2nd letter to Timothy which is Paul's last letter before his martyrdom, Paul says:
2 Timothy 4:6-7,
7. I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith:
8. Henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, shall give me at that day: and not to me only, BUT UNTO ALL THEM ALSO that love his appearing.
Well, Paul finished his course/run, he fought the good fight and hence the prize of the crown of righteousness (salvation) awaits for him.
If he stopped running, if he stopped fighting, if he didn't keep the faith...???
From what you have described the churches have always had a mingled condition. Most of the books in the New Testament discuss and warn about this mingled condition. 2 Peter, 1, 2, 3, John, even Jude which is known really as the "acts of the apostates" Galatians the Jewdisers, Colossians heresy with Gnostics. The apostles were not even dead and buried and they were dealing with all sorts of mingled conditions within the church. Some of his honest errors and some of it heresy.
So here we are in the present 2023, we have our current state of affairs, with new modern bible perversions, churches with female pastors/bishops, homosexual pastors, churches consecrating same-sex marriages, feminist-influenced congregations that no longer teach Ephesians 5 wives submitting toward their husband, 1 Corinthians 11 head coverings for women during corporate worship, and the further watering down of the Word of God to please the masses by the clergy.... 2 Timothy 4:3 (KJV) For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but after their own lusts shall they heap to themselves teachers, having itching ears;
Many churches have fallen into a state of apostasy... We are in a very sad state of affairs in today's Christendom.
So yes in my humble opinion, the churches today are out of order and that is why judgment starts in the house of God.
1 Peter 4:17 (KJV) 17 For the time is come that judgment must begin at the house of God: and if it first begin at us, what shall the end be of them that obey not the gospel of God?
, that we must pickup, teaching us to deny these ungodly & worldly lust, & pleasures of this world, which spring up within us & also instructs us in works of righteousness unto holiness this is Christ Spirit / Grace / Light appearance in us to combat the spirits of darkness that appears. Ephesians 6:12 it not without only, Jesus says it's within our hearts Matt 15:192Cor 10:5,6
Friends
Awake to Righteousness & in time through the exercising of Him, the Grace of God, you'll sin not & be conformed to His Image
For He only become Hebrews 5:9
Are have you been deceived by those Paul warned us about in
2 Timothy 4:3,4 Jude 1:4 Believing against Scriptural Truth, that turn the Grace of God into wantonness, that you can live a life of sin & iniquity & have a faith that never overcome satan, & still be born again, Spirit baptized, & a light that set upon a hill, if this be true of you, your in the Apostasy, the deceitfulness of sin/satan has ensnare you. 2 Thess 2:10-12 is fulfilling upon you, your faith is a lie, John 3:18-20Rom 1:25
Friends,
The working out of our salvation, the sanctification of the Spirit unto obedience, washing of regeneration & renewing of the Holy Ghost is on this side of the grave. What spiritual state we're in when we die, is the state we will be judge in! & if the 1Pet 4:18 be not decieived, 1John 3:7,8,11
I've spoken this to many people, their response is 'that God is loving, gracious & merciful" very true, that why He sent His only begotten Son to provide a Way, through His Grace & Mercy to overcome the devil & become more than conquerors, through Him that loves us,. This is the whole revelation of the better Covenant, build on better promises, Grace & Mercy takes us out of sin, it's the Rom 8:2 it doesn't leave us in our sins, to pacifying us, saying Oh it's ok we know you can't be perfect, the lie.
Friends
For the sake of God's great love wherewith He has demonstrated in sending His Son, consider your state 2Cor 13:5
The Revelation of Jesus Christ, which God gave unto him, to shew unto his servants things which must shortly come to pass; and he sent and signified it by his angel unto his servant John:
This verse shows much like Matthew 24:36 that some things apparently are still appropriated by the Father; at least in regard to the timing of events in the future and the day and hour they begin. Admittedly; this is a mystery as Christ is fully God and fully man but we can learn the Godhead and how the Son does nothing apart from the Father here at the very least ( John 5:19). Indeed that verse says the Son can do NOTHING of Himself; which could have been particularly true during His earthly ministry.
Nonetheless we see that death could not overcome Him ( Acts 2:24). God exalted Him as High Priest and King and gave Him all authority in heaven and earth positionally ( Matt. 28:18); restoring the position which He no doubt had since He was the One who created all things ( Colossians 1:16).
verse 3 states Blessed is he that readeth, and they that hear the words of this prophecy, and keep those things which are written therein: for the time is at hand. It reminds us of the verse in Revelation 22:12 where He states that He comes quickly; and the delay of the church age can be seen in the verse Habakkuk 2:3 where it says although it tarries wait for it and the original language shows that it will surely come in its time and not delay. There is a crown; in fact for those who patiently wait for it; we are warned against losing our crown in Revelation 3:10. See also 2 Timothy 4:8 and Malachi 3:16.
The subsequent chapters show what happens when one casts aside their first love (with the Ephesian church); and other churches as to false doctrines. Since only God knows when the Rapture and subsequent Tribulation begins; any attempt for Satan to bring it forth sooner will fail so many will not believe it when it truly comes.
"The Bible alone and in its entirety IS THE VERY WORD OF GOD HIMSELF"
This seems very close to:
"The Bible alone and in its entirety IS [GOD HIMSELF]"
So we asked him about it, but I felt pretty sure that's what he meant so I brought up many questions. I'm actually relieved he says he apparently doesn't believe that, but I still don't know what he believes nor do I understand any motives behind it.
If you were accusing some of us of "twisting" words just look at his words above as this is a valid question of someone posting such things on this website. I hope 2 Timothy 4:3-4 does not apply in this case, but we should be on guard against such teachings and defend the truth.
For it has been granted to you not only to believe in Christ but also to suffer for him (Phillipians 1:29). Acts 5:41 is in a similar vein; namely being thankful for being worthy to be persecuted in His name; which is promised for all true believers. ( 2 Tim. 3:12; etal). The promise of being chastised if we are a true child of God and other sufferings aren't exactly the first thing we focus on
when it comes to God's promises. But of course if we consider these hard sayings first; we can learn to appreciate the more pleasurable promises in a greater way.
The opposite is true of course; in light of Hebrews 11:25. Sin runs its course of earthly pleasures; which lead up to eternal condemnation. For God's children; however there are pleasures evermore in His right hand ( Psalm 16:11). The fullness of life is also mentioned in that verse which corresponds with John 10:10 in living life to the full. Food and clothing are promised in the Gospels ( Matt. 6:25); (compare with 1 Kings 17:6 where the ravens brought Elijah food). Notice that shelter or a place to rest His head is mentioned as lacking in Matthew 8:20; which made some turn away from following Him. Surely Christ Himself did stay in peoples' homes for short interludes; but He also spent many nights on mountains in prayer; or sleeping on a boat.
Much prayer; of course seems to be edifying when focused on fulfilling the Great Commission. God states in Isaiah 55:11; that His word will not go out void; but accomplish His purposes. If we are doing His work; then we can be sure to reap what we sow; in terms of reward (see Psalm 126:5). Heavenly treasures are a promise for those who are serving out of a pure heart (see 2 Timothy 4:7-8). Therefore; the end ouf our sufferings in Christ will bring eternal glory that outweighs anything on earth. (see Romans 8:18). 2 Corinthians 4:17-18 also discusses "momentary afflictions" that don't compare to heavenly bliss.
Continuing the subject of Christ's daily life on earth as an example of multiple gifts and responsibilities
I feel it is good once again before entering this subject in detail to stand back and examine Christ's sayings on counting the cost to be a Disciple ( Luke 14:28). Before that; I also thought that we should ponder our trust level with Christ; such as the example C.S. Lewis mentioned about Christ; "He is either a liar; lunatic or was who He said He was" (Mere Chrisitianity). This can be expanded as far as I can tell to what He said in regard to being a true Disciple. Again; with Paul's example we see a more extended campaign both in time and distance covered in his four major evangelical Mediterranean journeys. The assurance that the prize was reached wouldn't come until the end ( Philippians 3:12:14; compare with 2 Timothy 4:7-8 at the end of His life). We are also humbly reminded of how many fell away at the time when Paul needed them the most ( 2 Timothy 4:16) which is interestingly right after the aformentioned passage in Timothy.
These things are necessary to discuss because we dare not look just with curiosity at all the things Christ did. It is clear that; for the most part we are not going to do miracles the Apostles did. Also; most of us are laypersons; and involved with marriages; or employment and our focus is meant to be in our local churches. This shouldn't limit us; especially with gifts and callings of full time evangelism or other mission field opportunities (including short term ventures). Today; more than ever EXAMPLES of individuals mature in the faith are rare; so we certainly need to be building church members up to maturity; for their own sakes and that of the next generation.
Proverbs 16:9 shows how man plans His way; but God directs his steps. We can't do anything without the Spirit; and to multitask on the go as Christ did takes total trust to a new level in God's provision. It is also all out spiritual warfare.
Did you know that there were other English translations before the KJB? Were they also corrupt? Were the KJB translators King James Onlyists? Did they think that their translation alone was the word of God. Did they think that all previous translations were corrupt? Did they think that any translation written after theirs should be automatically discarded and labeled as being corrupt? I think these are valid questions. Can you please answer these?
You also ask me how would I know the difference between a corrupt translation and one that can be trusted? First of all, I will say that I trust the KJB. But there is no way that I can tell you that the KJB is a perfect word for word (no errors) translation without taking the same materials the translators used and testing putting them to the test. After all, we are told to test all things. But since I am not the one trying to prove that the KJB is the only translation that is the pure perfect word of God, and that all others are corrupt, perhaps maybe you can take this task on? And I hate to be the bearer of bad news, but 2 Timothy 4:3-4, 1 Timothy 4:1, and Jeremiah 23:36 have nothing to do with bible translations. You are also misapplying those verses.
Psalm 68:6 talks about setting the lonely in families; and Psalm 27:10 says that even if parents forsake us God will take us up (rough meaning).
From my experience; it seems in the Reformed circles the family unit is held in high esteem and in the denomination I was last in before I had to move there basically was a network of extended families that pretty much arranged for favorable meetings for young people to fellowship and often marry those who were at these events; thus pretty much continuing the expansion of the church. Other denominations tend to be more or less dominated by those in their own nuclear families and tend somewhat less to invite strangers into conversations or to their homes.
Whatever the accuracy of my own assessment; we are adopted sons and daughters according to Romans in many passages; Ephesians 1 and Galatians 4:6-7. It is commonplace; nonetheless whether with our blood relatives or church family to default to hanging out with those we find interesting in one form or another and often neglecting the ministry such as rebuke; exhortation and encouragement when necessary. We see passages such as "He rebukes all those He loves" ( Rev. 3:19; Hebrews 12:6 and others) and tend to only think of God Himself doing that work. However; we are to exercise such behaviors as 2 Timothy 4:2 instructs us to. Rejoice with those who rejoice and weep likewise ( Romans 12:15). To behave this way first we need to have a listening mindset; rather than spend much time with needless chatter when we fellowship. Again; the reformers seem to have a better handle on that with some not allowing any discussion apart from the Lord on Sundays. I'm not setting a legalistic mandate here; but suggesting that such boundaries eliminate useless banter; and worse a sin of omission not ministering to those in need who are too polite to interrupt discussion about sports teams; work exploits or just general complaining of the state of affairs in the world today.
In the gospels we read the story of Judas. A disciple, an apostle, he baprized new believers in water like the rest ( John 4:2), he was given authority over the Spirit to perform miracles and healings ( Luke 9:6), cast out demons, he was sent by Jesus to preach salvation ( Matthew 10:5-15), he was told that he, together with the rest, in the Judgement will sit on a throne and judge the 12 tribes of Israel. But in the midtime Judas allowed his heart to love money more than Jesus and eventually his love for money led him to become Jesus' trator. Why? Because his heart deceived him. People who hold the belief that salvation can not be lost try to overcome Judas' example by saying that he wasn't actually saved. for that they use the verse in John 17:12, "While I (Jesus) was with them (the 12) in the world, I kept them in thy name (Saviour): those that thou gavest me I have kept, and none of them is lost, but the son of perdition; that the scripture might be fulfilled." So a sinful man, not saved, was sent to preach salvation to Israel? Was given gifts of healing and performing miracles? A son of satan who casts out devils? Really? No, not really. What Jesus says is that he managed to save all but Judas because Judas took the decision for himself to become a traitor, a son of perdition, like the Scriptures said and so the prophesy was fulfilled. And something else. Even if Judas never betrayed Jesus, still the Jews would capture Him sometime, one way or another. Judas wasn't their only choise.
Another example of a man who let his heart deceive him is Demas, a companion of Paul during his ministry. But eventually he left Paul, 2 Timothy 4:10, "For Demas hath forsaken me, having loved this present world, and is departed unto Thessalonica; ...". Demas eventually loved the sinful world more than God and left Paul. Who was Demas? We don't really know. But we know that Paul was very strict when he selected his partners in the ministry.
2 Timothy is Pau'sl last epistle before his martyrdom. He was captured for a second time when emperor of Rome was Nero and the persecutions against christians by Romans had already started. In that last letter now Paul feels secure about his salvation. Why? Because his course has come to an end, his life is going to end soon, everything now finishes. He has achieved with the grace of God to stay on that course and he has been loyal to his Lord and His commandements. So he writes in 2 Timothy 4:6-8,
"6For I am now ready to be offered, and the time of my departure is at hand. 7I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith:n8Henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, shall give me at that day: and not to me only, but unto all them also that love his appearing."
End of the race. Price secured.
Before that (his end) in 1 Timothy 6:12 Paul advices Timothy to do the same that he has done through his life,
"11But thou, O man of God(Timothy), flee these things; and follow after righteousness, godliness, faith, love, patience, meekness. 12Fight the good fight of faith, lay hold on eternal life, whereunto thou art also called, and hast professed a good profession before many witnesses."
To fight the good fight of faith, to LAY HOLD on eternal life into which Timothy was called.
We are all called to enter the eternal life. We have entered the narrow path through our belief and new birth. But now we have to run that race lawfully to finish it victoriously and to be given the price of eternal life.
Well, it is too late at night here so I'll come back tomorrow.
"Not as though I had already attained, either were already perfect: but I follow after, if that I MAY apprehend that for which also I am apprehended of Christ Jesus. 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."
In 2 Timothy 4:6-8, which is Paul's last letter before his martyrdom, when everything in his life was to end soon he writes,
"For I am now ready to be offered, and the time of my departure is at hand. For I am now ready to be offered, and the time of my departure is at hand.I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith: Henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, shall give me at that day: and not to me only, but unto all them also that love his appearing.: Henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, shall give me at that day: and not to me only, but unto all them also that love his appearing."
Finally lets go to Matthew 19:28,
"And Jesus said unto them (the 12), Verily I say unto you, That ye which have followed me, in the regeneration when the Son of man shall sit in the throne of his glory, ye also shall sit upon twelve thrones, judging the twelve tribes of Israel."
Jesus gives a promise to His disciples, including Judas, that they will sit on thrones and judge the 12 tribes of Israel. Did Judas get that promise? No, he didn't. Why not? Because he failed. But that promise was for him as well, wasn't it? But he didn't get it. There is always a condition for one to get the promise of salvation, like Paul wrote above to "have fought a good fight, to have finished the course, to have kept the faith".
The truth of the scripture can be uncomfortable for some to admit.
Some people are claiming all kinds of anti-Biblical things by cherry picking some verses they like, ignoring others, and then building a false religion around one verse. For example the metaphor about being children and gods. The children part is less popular, but they like the gods one, then expand and use that premise to glue other misinterpreted pieces of scripture together to make a nice fake religion that is exactly what satan wants. He wants people to be deceived and think they can be like god. That's the same way Adam and Eve were deceived in the original sin.
It's shocking what I read sometimes how people's ears are so easily tickled by the lies, and the truth just isn't as welcomed. 2 Timothy 4:3-4. These are dangerous times in the world and Christians are under attack and they don't even realize it. Some have turned from Jesus and are not longer telling the truth, but deceiving on behalf of satan. The clever trick this time is cherry picking metaphors vs what is literal- taking scripture out of context and twisting it until you get the desired outcome. Shame on anyone doing this. May the Holy Spirit convict anyone deceiving others in this way.
It seems; at least from much of my personal experience that kicking that perverbial can down the road is a rather common tactic for the unbeliever; namely that of death and judgment before our maker. Of course there are many other techniques as well; such as minimalizing the true hopelessness of our sin nature; attempting to steer all conversation on the evils of the world apart from our own accountability and sometimes obvious vices.
One of the blinders that we often embrace from our youth is some sentimental view of those of our own family or friends who have passed on; as being somehow in a better place. We do ourselves no favors here; for Jesus Himself didn't demonstrate any mercy for the rich man with the very real tale of the Lazarus Parable. It is the Lord which works in us who shine forth as the stars as part of the Body of believers which is the significant part of every saint of God that lasts on into eternity; albeit with different levels of glory and each being uniquely created to represent a particular blend of characteristics. We see this in the spiritual giftings in this life. Lest we "hyperspiritualize" any of this stuff; ALL aspects of a redeemed life from work to family to recreation as well as our "spiritual" duties such as witnessing; scripture reading; prayer; etc. are called to be a representative display of Christ's character in our lives.
Another important point here is that Christ was a man of sorrows ( Isaiah 53:3); as well as all other characteristics that chapter describes in great detail. There were many who admired him as a great teacher or prophet ( Matthew 16:13-20); but only those that understood that He was the Son of God (or the "I am") were truly saved. This shows why many didn't remain with Him; He wasn't afraid to challenge those would be disciples ( 2 Timothy 4:10; Luke 18:23; Matt. 19:22).
Another problem exists when we are afraid to confront national sins. See part 2)
Hi Timothy. Just looking at the Scriptures on Luke, I note that he was a close friend of the Apostle Paul, who referred to him as 'the beloved physician' ( Colossians 4:14). He is also spoken of as a "fellow labourer" ( Philemon 1:24).
During Paul's second missionary journey, Luke connected with Paul in Asia Minor ( Acts 16:6-11. Verse 10 particularly indicates this: "WE endeavoured to go into Macedonia"). Luke was then left in Philippi ( Acts 17:1: "THEY", Luke excluded) and then re-connected with Paul to travel with him on the third missionary journey ( Acts 20:5: "US").
Luke also accompanied Paul on his journey to Jerusalem & then to Rome and was with Paul during his imprisonment there ( 2 Timothy 4:11: which you had quoted). So, you can see that Luke, with many others (in the Church & on the 'mission field'), played a vital role in Paul's ministry & provided him with fellowship & encouragement. And of course Luke's medical knowledge, no doubt would have been useful to both Paul & maybe those in such need in their travels.
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.
it is written the preaching of the cross to the jews; a stumbling block; to the greeks foolishines.
but to those jews and gentiles that believes it is the power of god. that should answer your question if not maybe a little...peace...god is love not that love that the world gives but spiritual love which surpasses all understanding.
That's a good question!
The "Prosperity Gospel" is what I have heard it called. It certainly isn't based off the Bible and can be easily debunked. The scripture that comes to my mind is 2 Timothy 4:3. Those type of pastors tell people whatever they want to hear, and people like it, thus they pay for that type of ministry and gospel. The are charismatic pastors and people lend them their resources, thus they gain prominence and prestige.
It is as Bennymkje said. God knows those who belong to him. We all will stand before the judgement seat of God. They are having their reward in full now, because if they are indeed judged to have been mishandling the word of God......it won't be good.
Also, just as Jesus said. If we remain in his word, we will know the truth and the truth will set us free. ( John 8:31,32)
This amazingly started on a previous post where Paul was said to not be saved or atleast "not yet"
Paul said he was saved. If he didn't make it we're in trouble!
Paul said he was a master builder, and he helped lay the foundation which we are to build on.
Paul said a crown was laid up in heaven for him. 2 Timothy 4:7-8.
We have faults in our walk down here on earth tho we thrive for perfection.
Our thriving is evident we are not perfect. Another way we know we're not is that we die.
God requirements is perfection. If you ever sinned it's already to late if you feel you can come from under the atonement of the LORD.
We're left "Naked" without "CHRIST RIGHTEOUSNESS"
The Idea that you and I can be wrong about any matter suggests that we are not perfect.
How could this same corrupted person that struggle "WITHIN" judge anything to correct it to a degree he or she cannot reach? ( God's Holiness that we cannot fully comprehend)
Ignorance is no excuse!!
Only given an earnest of the Spirit can we fully comprehend the Holiness of God? No!
Romans 3:23-25 is where we stand.
God bless.
May we not falter, but remind ourselves of the many lost souls, and the back slidden brethren who need a loving and kind hand of grace.
Happy New Year everyone! Let us all walk in the love of the LORD JESUS CHRIST.
December 29, 2023
So true, and I agree with much that you said.
Today, and foe many years now, Preachers don't preach and acknowledge the truth about sin, and everlasting hell, and they are leading their congregations straight down the wide path to hell! Matthew 25:41 James 3:1
We MUST fear God! This is the very beginning of knowledge. Proverbs 1:7
God is Vengeful and He tells us so. Hell is God's way of getting His vengeance. Isaiah 47:3
God knows us better than we could ever imagine. He knows, that if we have NO FEAR to motivate us to change our ways, we will continue in sin. God is also Love. He sacrificed his Son for us so thru Him we can recieved forgivness. He provides His Holy Spirit to break the bonds of sin. Preachers are not helping anyone by not preaching Hell and the fear of God!
If we are still repeatedly sinning..we DO NOT have God's Holy Spirit. Hebrews 10:26 God's Holy Spirit will not let us habitually sin.
Today, most so called Christian Pastors/Preachers are about the money. They don't want to focus on the sin in their congregation, if they do, they will lose their entire congregation. Sinners don't want to hear they are sinners, and they certainly don't want to think or hear about hell, they come to church to feel good about themselves and to be entertained. Churches today are all about making everyone feel good. Sad but true.
Which reminds me of this very powerful verse 2 Timothy 4:3 "For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but after their own lusts shall they heap to themselves teachers, having itching ears;"
The plain truth is: Sin keeps us from our God!
GBU
Huge thread of Bible verses:
Link
Those who seem motivated to campaign against Jesus and attack and try to demean him seem like enemies of Christ. Would someone who loves Jesus do that? The same old tired straw man arguments and flawed human logic is somehow viewed as carrying more weight than the scriptures themselves. Cherry picking and twisting a few verses occurs while ignoring a mountain of clear verses saying Jesus is God, like John 1:1. But as the Bible says in 2 Timothy 4:3-4 people will seek out fables and turn to lies to satisfy their fleshly itching ears. It is disgusting.
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
So, here are some passages to start you off, but in your reading of the Bible, God's Spirit will alert you to what you seek or even where some action needs to be taken in your own life.
For "Consequences", see: Genesis 2:15-17; Genesis 3:16-19; Deuteronomy 28:1,2,15; 1 Kings 11:9-11; Job 4:8,9; Isaiah 59:2; Jeremiah 17:9,10; Matthew 27:3-5; Romans 6:23; Romans 13:4; Galatians 6:7,8; 1 Timothy 5:8; James 2:10; Revelation 20:12-15.
For "Correction", see: Proverbs 22:6; Proverbs 29:15; 2 Corinthians 5:10; Galatians 6:1; Ephesians 6:4; 2 Timothy 4:2; Hebrews 12:5-11; Revelation 3:19.
These are just a very few Scriptures, reminding us that there will always be consequences for our actions, not just in our dealings with each other, but more importantly, as we stand before God. But this God of Love always gives sinful wayward man an escape route, from a life of sin to a life of holiness & love - and His Name is Jesus.
I am a lot like you in many ways. I rid myself of all technology. No phone, vehicle etc. I wanted to go back to roots if you understand what I mean. I only kept my PC so I can try to study the bible and have only recently setup a facebook account a couple of months back so that I can try to "fellowship" with as many different Christians as that is where everyone seems to be and I did not want to ( 1 Corinthians 3:18) "deceive myself". But I am a very cautious and self-aware individual and so I am wary of ( Matthew 7:15) wolves in sheep's clothing while at the same time I don't want to become a fulfillement of the prophecy ( 2 Timothy 4:3) which I feel is actually coming to pass. I want to find that biblical sound doctrine So I know what path I need to walk.
I thank you for your time, patience and guidance and May our Lord God the Father bless you. Peace and love to you in Jesus name.
As humans He created, we cannot attain to His infinite and boundless Holiness, but in Christ we will become perfected in the life to come to have perfect holy humanity without sin any longer. The angels are also holy and without sin, but they are creatures and thus not holy in the sense of being separate
Friend, its not God's holiness that in dispute here, but our inheritance in Christ, now in this life.
The holy, innocent, pure, blameless, unreproachable life of Christ is our inheritance Rom 8:29 becoming partakers of His Divine Nature, the Fruits of His Spirit which against such there is no law, In Christ, the Father withholds nothing of Himself from us, for Luke 12:32
Its is a perfection of holiness that can be added too, as one grows in knowledge & understanding through the appearance of Grace in our hearts 2Cor 4:6,7
It's known, felt, consummated & possess in this life & is rewarded in the next. 2 Timothy 4:7,8
Christ prayer is answered John 17:21-24
Holiness is none other than being engrafted into God, union & oneness with Him in heart, mind & soul, for He along is Holy
This is the greatness of the salvation Christ purchase, that Hebrews declares "ought not to be neglected".
For 1Thessalonians 4:7 2Thessalonians 2:13,14
G4047 Obtaining: acquisition, possession (the act or the thing); by extension, preservation, peculiar, purchased, possession, saving.
Concerning angels Mark 8:28
G40- most holy, consecrated
They are separated, Rev 19:10 "I am thy fellowservant, & of thy brethren that have the testimony of Jesus, worship God"
Your quote is unscriptural,
you are advocating a life of continuous in sin & repentance for life term, there's no fellowship, union or knowing Him in this state according to Scriptures, this teaching becomes a stumbling block to the babes in Christ, Whom God is leading in the Way of holiness, your directly contradicting the teaching of Christ who says deny self & "sin not" & put on the Lord Jesus Christ.
In his 2nd letter to Timothy which is Paul's last letter before his martyrdom, Paul says:
2 Timothy 4:6-7,
7. I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith:
8. Henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, shall give me at that day: and not to me only, BUT UNTO ALL THEM ALSO that love his appearing.
Well, Paul finished his course/run, he fought the good fight and hence the prize of the crown of righteousness (salvation) awaits for him.
If he stopped running, if he stopped fighting, if he didn't keep the faith...???
So here we are in the present 2023, we have our current state of affairs, with new modern bible perversions, churches with female pastors/bishops, homosexual pastors, churches consecrating same-sex marriages, feminist-influenced congregations that no longer teach Ephesians 5 wives submitting toward their husband, 1 Corinthians 11 head coverings for women during corporate worship, and the further watering down of the Word of God to please the masses by the clergy.... 2 Timothy 4:3 (KJV) For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but after their own lusts shall they heap to themselves teachers, having itching ears;
Many churches have fallen into a state of apostasy... We are in a very sad state of affairs in today's Christendom.
So yes in my humble opinion, the churches today are out of order and that is why judgment starts in the house of God.
1 Peter 4:17 (KJV) 17 For the time is come that judgment must begin at the house of God: and if it first begin at us, what shall the end be of them that obey not the gospel of God?
GBU
, that we must pickup, teaching us to deny these ungodly & worldly lust, & pleasures of this world, which spring up within us & also instructs us in works of righteousness unto holiness this is Christ Spirit / Grace / Light appearance in us to combat the spirits of darkness that appears. Ephesians 6:12 it not without only, Jesus says it's within our hearts Matt 15:19 2Cor 10:5,6
Friends
Awake to Righteousness & in time through the exercising of Him, the Grace of God, you'll sin not & be conformed to His Image
For He only become Hebrews 5:9
Are have you been deceived by those Paul warned us about in
2 Timothy 4:3,4 Jude 1:4 Believing against Scriptural Truth, that turn the Grace of God into wantonness, that you can live a life of sin & iniquity & have a faith that never overcome satan, & still be born again, Spirit baptized, & a light that set upon a hill, if this be true of you, your in the Apostasy, the deceitfulness of sin/satan has ensnare you. 2 Thess 2:10-12 is fulfilling upon you, your faith is a lie, John 3:18-20 Rom 1:25
Friends,
The working out of our salvation, the sanctification of the Spirit unto obedience, washing of regeneration & renewing of the Holy Ghost is on this side of the grave. What spiritual state we're in when we die, is the state we will be judge in! & if the 1Pet 4:18 be not decieived, 1John 3:7,8,11
I've spoken this to many people, their response is 'that God is loving, gracious & merciful" very true, that why He sent His only begotten Son to provide a Way, through His Grace & Mercy to overcome the devil & become more than conquerors, through Him that loves us,. This is the whole revelation of the better Covenant, build on better promises, Grace & Mercy takes us out of sin, it's the Rom 8:2 it doesn't leave us in our sins, to pacifying us, saying Oh it's ok we know you can't be perfect, the lie.
Friends
For the sake of God's great love wherewith He has demonstrated in sending His Son, consider your state 2Cor 13:5
Verse one states:
The Revelation of Jesus Christ, which God gave unto him, to shew unto his servants things which must shortly come to pass; and he sent and signified it by his angel unto his servant John:
This verse shows much like Matthew 24:36 that some things apparently are still appropriated by the Father; at least in regard to the timing of events in the future and the day and hour they begin. Admittedly; this is a mystery as Christ is fully God and fully man but we can learn the Godhead and how the Son does nothing apart from the Father here at the very least ( John 5:19). Indeed that verse says the Son can do NOTHING of Himself; which could have been particularly true during His earthly ministry.
Nonetheless we see that death could not overcome Him ( Acts 2:24). God exalted Him as High Priest and King and gave Him all authority in heaven and earth positionally ( Matt. 28:18); restoring the position which He no doubt had since He was the One who created all things ( Colossians 1:16).
verse 3 states Blessed is he that readeth, and they that hear the words of this prophecy, and keep those things which are written therein: for the time is at hand. It reminds us of the verse in Revelation 22:12 where He states that He comes quickly; and the delay of the church age can be seen in the verse Habakkuk 2:3 where it says although it tarries wait for it and the original language shows that it will surely come in its time and not delay. There is a crown; in fact for those who patiently wait for it; we are warned against losing our crown in Revelation 3:10. See also 2 Timothy 4:8 and Malachi 3:16.
The subsequent chapters show what happens when one casts aside their first love (with the Ephesian church); and other churches as to false doctrines. Since only God knows when the Rapture and subsequent Tribulation begins; any attempt for Satan to bring it forth sooner will fail so many will not believe it when it truly comes.
What David posted was:
"The Bible alone and in its entirety IS THE VERY WORD OF GOD HIMSELF"
This seems very close to:
"The Bible alone and in its entirety IS [GOD HIMSELF]"
So we asked him about it, but I felt pretty sure that's what he meant so I brought up many questions. I'm actually relieved he says he apparently doesn't believe that, but I still don't know what he believes nor do I understand any motives behind it.
If you were accusing some of us of "twisting" words just look at his words above as this is a valid question of someone posting such things on this website. I hope 2 Timothy 4:3-4 does not apply in this case, but we should be on guard against such teachings and defend the truth.
For it has been granted to you not only to believe in Christ but also to suffer for him (Phillipians 1:29). Acts 5:41 is in a similar vein; namely being thankful for being worthy to be persecuted in His name; which is promised for all true believers. ( 2 Tim. 3:12; etal). The promise of being chastised if we are a true child of God and other sufferings aren't exactly the first thing we focus on
when it comes to God's promises. But of course if we consider these hard sayings first; we can learn to appreciate the more pleasurable promises in a greater way.
The opposite is true of course; in light of Hebrews 11:25. Sin runs its course of earthly pleasures; which lead up to eternal condemnation. For God's children; however there are pleasures evermore in His right hand ( Psalm 16:11). The fullness of life is also mentioned in that verse which corresponds with John 10:10 in living life to the full. Food and clothing are promised in the Gospels ( Matt. 6:25); (compare with 1 Kings 17:6 where the ravens brought Elijah food). Notice that shelter or a place to rest His head is mentioned as lacking in Matthew 8:20; which made some turn away from following Him. Surely Christ Himself did stay in peoples' homes for short interludes; but He also spent many nights on mountains in prayer; or sleeping on a boat.
Much prayer; of course seems to be edifying when focused on fulfilling the Great Commission. God states in Isaiah 55:11; that His word will not go out void; but accomplish His purposes. If we are doing His work; then we can be sure to reap what we sow; in terms of reward (see Psalm 126:5). Heavenly treasures are a promise for those who are serving out of a pure heart (see 2 Timothy 4:7-8). Therefore; the end ouf our sufferings in Christ will bring eternal glory that outweighs anything on earth. (see Romans 8:18). 2 Corinthians 4:17-18 also discusses "momentary afflictions" that don't compare to heavenly bliss.
I feel it is good once again before entering this subject in detail to stand back and examine Christ's sayings on counting the cost to be a Disciple ( Luke 14:28). Before that; I also thought that we should ponder our trust level with Christ; such as the example C.S. Lewis mentioned about Christ; "He is either a liar; lunatic or was who He said He was" (Mere Chrisitianity). This can be expanded as far as I can tell to what He said in regard to being a true Disciple. Again; with Paul's example we see a more extended campaign both in time and distance covered in his four major evangelical Mediterranean journeys. The assurance that the prize was reached wouldn't come until the end ( Philippians 3:12:14; compare with 2 Timothy 4:7-8 at the end of His life). We are also humbly reminded of how many fell away at the time when Paul needed them the most ( 2 Timothy 4:16) which is interestingly right after the aformentioned passage in Timothy.
These things are necessary to discuss because we dare not look just with curiosity at all the things Christ did. It is clear that; for the most part we are not going to do miracles the Apostles did. Also; most of us are laypersons; and involved with marriages; or employment and our focus is meant to be in our local churches. This shouldn't limit us; especially with gifts and callings of full time evangelism or other mission field opportunities (including short term ventures). Today; more than ever EXAMPLES of individuals mature in the faith are rare; so we certainly need to be building church members up to maturity; for their own sakes and that of the next generation.
Proverbs 16:9 shows how man plans His way; but God directs his steps. We can't do anything without the Spirit; and to multitask on the go as Christ did takes total trust to a new level in God's provision. It is also all out spiritual warfare.
Jimbob,
Did you know that there were other English translations before the KJB? Were they also corrupt? Were the KJB translators King James Onlyists? Did they think that their translation alone was the word of God. Did they think that all previous translations were corrupt? Did they think that any translation written after theirs should be automatically discarded and labeled as being corrupt? I think these are valid questions. Can you please answer these?
You also ask me how would I know the difference between a corrupt translation and one that can be trusted? First of all, I will say that I trust the KJB. But there is no way that I can tell you that the KJB is a perfect word for word (no errors) translation without taking the same materials the translators used and testing putting them to the test. After all, we are told to test all things. But since I am not the one trying to prove that the KJB is the only translation that is the pure perfect word of God, and that all others are corrupt, perhaps maybe you can take this task on? And I hate to be the bearer of bad news, but 2 Timothy 4:3-4, 1 Timothy 4:1, and Jeremiah 23:36 have nothing to do with bible translations. You are also misapplying those verses.
Blessings to you also!
From my experience; it seems in the Reformed circles the family unit is held in high esteem and in the denomination I was last in before I had to move there basically was a network of extended families that pretty much arranged for favorable meetings for young people to fellowship and often marry those who were at these events; thus pretty much continuing the expansion of the church. Other denominations tend to be more or less dominated by those in their own nuclear families and tend somewhat less to invite strangers into conversations or to their homes.
Whatever the accuracy of my own assessment; we are adopted sons and daughters according to Romans in many passages; Ephesians 1 and Galatians 4:6-7. It is commonplace; nonetheless whether with our blood relatives or church family to default to hanging out with those we find interesting in one form or another and often neglecting the ministry such as rebuke; exhortation and encouragement when necessary. We see passages such as "He rebukes all those He loves" ( Rev. 3:19; Hebrews 12:6 and others) and tend to only think of God Himself doing that work. However; we are to exercise such behaviors as 2 Timothy 4:2 instructs us to. Rejoice with those who rejoice and weep likewise ( Romans 12:15). To behave this way first we need to have a listening mindset; rather than spend much time with needless chatter when we fellowship. Again; the reformers seem to have a better handle on that with some not allowing any discussion apart from the Lord on Sundays. I'm not setting a legalistic mandate here; but suggesting that such boundaries eliminate useless banter; and worse a sin of omission not ministering to those in need who are too polite to interrupt discussion about sports teams; work exploits or just general complaining of the state of affairs in the world today.
Assurance of salvation, cont.
In the gospels we read the story of Judas. A disciple, an apostle, he baprized new believers in water like the rest ( John 4:2), he was given authority over the Spirit to perform miracles and healings ( Luke 9:6), cast out demons, he was sent by Jesus to preach salvation ( Matthew 10:5-15), he was told that he, together with the rest, in the Judgement will sit on a throne and judge the 12 tribes of Israel. But in the midtime Judas allowed his heart to love money more than Jesus and eventually his love for money led him to become Jesus' trator. Why? Because his heart deceived him. People who hold the belief that salvation can not be lost try to overcome Judas' example by saying that he wasn't actually saved. for that they use the verse in John 17:12, "While I (Jesus) was with them (the 12) in the world, I kept them in thy name (Saviour): those that thou gavest me I have kept, and none of them is lost, but the son of perdition; that the scripture might be fulfilled." So a sinful man, not saved, was sent to preach salvation to Israel? Was given gifts of healing and performing miracles? A son of satan who casts out devils? Really? No, not really. What Jesus says is that he managed to save all but Judas because Judas took the decision for himself to become a traitor, a son of perdition, like the Scriptures said and so the prophesy was fulfilled. And something else. Even if Judas never betrayed Jesus, still the Jews would capture Him sometime, one way or another. Judas wasn't their only choise.
Another example of a man who let his heart deceive him is Demas, a companion of Paul during his ministry. But eventually he left Paul, 2 Timothy 4:10, "For Demas hath forsaken me, having loved this present world, and is departed unto Thessalonica; ...". Demas eventually loved the sinful world more than God and left Paul. Who was Demas? We don't really know. But we know that Paul was very strict when he selected his partners in the ministry.
Richard.
2 Timothy is Pau'sl last epistle before his martyrdom. He was captured for a second time when emperor of Rome was Nero and the persecutions against christians by Romans had already started. In that last letter now Paul feels secure about his salvation. Why? Because his course has come to an end, his life is going to end soon, everything now finishes. He has achieved with the grace of God to stay on that course and he has been loyal to his Lord and His commandements. So he writes in 2 Timothy 4:6-8,
"6For I am now ready to be offered, and the time of my departure is at hand. 7I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith:n8Henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, shall give me at that day: and not to me only, but unto all them also that love his appearing."
End of the race. Price secured.
Before that (his end) in 1 Timothy 6:12 Paul advices Timothy to do the same that he has done through his life,
"11But thou, O man of God(Timothy), flee these things; and follow after righteousness, godliness, faith, love, patience, meekness. 12Fight the good fight of faith, lay hold on eternal life, whereunto thou art also called, and hast professed a good profession before many witnesses."
To fight the good fight of faith, to LAY HOLD on eternal life into which Timothy was called.
We are all called to enter the eternal life. We have entered the narrow path through our belief and new birth. But now we have to run that race lawfully to finish it victoriously and to be given the price of eternal life.
Well, it is too late at night here so I'll come back tomorrow.
Good night and God Bless You.
Jesse
In Philippians 3:12-14 Paul talks about himself,
"Not as though I had already attained, either were already perfect: but I follow after, if that I MAY apprehend that for which also I am apprehended of Christ Jesus. 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."
In 2 Timothy 4:6-8, which is Paul's last letter before his martyrdom, when everything in his life was to end soon he writes,
"For I am now ready to be offered, and the time of my departure is at hand. For I am now ready to be offered, and the time of my departure is at hand.I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith: Henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, shall give me at that day: and not to me only, but unto all them also that love his appearing.: Henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, shall give me at that day: and not to me only, but unto all them also that love his appearing."
Finally lets go to Matthew 19:28,
"And Jesus said unto them (the 12), Verily I say unto you, That ye which have followed me, in the regeneration when the Son of man shall sit in the throne of his glory, ye also shall sit upon twelve thrones, judging the twelve tribes of Israel."
Jesus gives a promise to His disciples, including Judas, that they will sit on thrones and judge the 12 tribes of Israel. Did Judas get that promise? No, he didn't. Why not? Because he failed. But that promise was for him as well, wasn't it? But he didn't get it. There is always a condition for one to get the promise of salvation, like Paul wrote above to "have fought a good fight, to have finished the course, to have kept the faith".
GBU
Some people are claiming all kinds of anti-Biblical things by cherry picking some verses they like, ignoring others, and then building a false religion around one verse. For example the metaphor about being children and gods. The children part is less popular, but they like the gods one, then expand and use that premise to glue other misinterpreted pieces of scripture together to make a nice fake religion that is exactly what satan wants. He wants people to be deceived and think they can be like god. That's the same way Adam and Eve were deceived in the original sin.
It's shocking what I read sometimes how people's ears are so easily tickled by the lies, and the truth just isn't as welcomed. 2 Timothy 4:3-4. These are dangerous times in the world and Christians are under attack and they don't even realize it. Some have turned from Jesus and are not longer telling the truth, but deceiving on behalf of satan. The clever trick this time is cherry picking metaphors vs what is literal- taking scripture out of context and twisting it until you get the desired outcome. Shame on anyone doing this. May the Holy Spirit convict anyone deceiving others in this way.
It seems; at least from much of my personal experience that kicking that perverbial can down the road is a rather common tactic for the unbeliever; namely that of death and judgment before our maker. Of course there are many other techniques as well; such as minimalizing the true hopelessness of our sin nature; attempting to steer all conversation on the evils of the world apart from our own accountability and sometimes obvious vices.
One of the blinders that we often embrace from our youth is some sentimental view of those of our own family or friends who have passed on; as being somehow in a better place. We do ourselves no favors here; for Jesus Himself didn't demonstrate any mercy for the rich man with the very real tale of the Lazarus Parable. It is the Lord which works in us who shine forth as the stars as part of the Body of believers which is the significant part of every saint of God that lasts on into eternity; albeit with different levels of glory and each being uniquely created to represent a particular blend of characteristics. We see this in the spiritual giftings in this life. Lest we "hyperspiritualize" any of this stuff; ALL aspects of a redeemed life from work to family to recreation as well as our "spiritual" duties such as witnessing; scripture reading; prayer; etc. are called to be a representative display of Christ's character in our lives.
Another important point here is that Christ was a man of sorrows ( Isaiah 53:3); as well as all other characteristics that chapter describes in great detail. There were many who admired him as a great teacher or prophet ( Matthew 16:13-20); but only those that understood that He was the Son of God (or the "I am") were truly saved. This shows why many didn't remain with Him; He wasn't afraid to challenge those would be disciples ( 2 Timothy 4:10; Luke 18:23; Matt. 19:22).
Another problem exists when we are afraid to confront national sins. See part 2)
During Paul's second missionary journey, Luke connected with Paul in Asia Minor ( Acts 16:6-11. Verse 10 particularly indicates this: "WE endeavoured to go into Macedonia"). Luke was then left in Philippi ( Acts 17:1: "THEY", Luke excluded) and then re-connected with Paul to travel with him on the third missionary journey ( Acts 20:5: "US").
Luke also accompanied Paul on his journey to Jerusalem & then to Rome and was with Paul during his imprisonment there ( 2 Timothy 4:11: which you had quoted). So, you can see that Luke, with many others (in the Church & on the 'mission field'), played a vital role in Paul's ministry & provided him with fellowship & encouragement. And of course Luke's medical knowledge, no doubt would have been useful to both Paul & maybe those in such need in their travels.
What role did Luke play in Paul's ministry?
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 are called to go forth and tell others of the salvation of the LORD. Matthew 28: 18-20
Romans 10: 14
We testify of the great and wonderful things that the LORD has done for us.
Psalms 126:6; 2 Timothy 4:2
GOD bless all on this platform.
October 20, 2022
Not all the scripture below are totally relevant, but I think they will help:
Matthew 18:15-18
1 Corinthians 5:1-5
1 Corinthians 5:9-13
Galatians 6:1
1 Timothy 1:3-4
1 Timothy 1:20
1 Timothy 5:1-2
1 Timothy 5:19-20
1 Timothy 6:3-5
2 Timothy 4:2-4
Titus 1:10-11
Titua 3:10-11
Philemon 1:8-9
2 John 1:9-11
Rev 2:14
Rev 2:20
it is written the preaching of the cross to the jews; a stumbling block; to the greeks foolishines.
but to those jews and gentiles that believes it is the power of god. that should answer your question if not maybe a little...peace...god is love not that love that the world gives but spiritual love which surpasses all understanding.
A Light of revelation to the Gentiles,
And the glory of Your people Israel.
Romans 3:29
Or is God the God of Jews only? Is He not the God of Gentiles also? Yes, of Gentiles also,