I agree with Jaz, You dont have to go into these collection of 66 books with understanding.
You go into these books with faith and searching for the truth.
It's God who reveals truth and opens up understanding.
So, you should relax and wait on God and pray for understanding as you go.
Read it for yourself and stay with a program.
Things will come together as read, you may not find the answer in the particular book you are reading but a may be revealed in another book.
As newborn babes, desire the sincere milk of the word, that ye may grow thereby: 1 Peter 2:2.
Get a good strongs concordance.
The 1st 5 books in the old testament and then the Gospels is probably a good start as Jaz said.
I would go into these books asking in prayer for guidance, (AND BELIEVE THAT GOD WILL GRANT IT)
Go into these books with CONFIDENCE IN GOD AS A LOVING FATHER READY TO TEACH.
Just know that understanding often comes later so don't loose faith.
If you decide to ask Questions, it's important to be as the berean in Acts 17:11 "they received the word with all readiness of mind, and searched the scriptures daily, whether those things were so.
Scripture interpretation: Primary and secondary applications Introduction
Introduction: An easy to understand analogy of proper vs improper scriptural application and comprehension is looking at the Word such as the 10 commandments spoken by God and written on the tablets that Moses brought forth from the mountain and eventually was placed in the Ark of the Covenant as compared to Satan's use of scripture which were clearly for his own diabolical purposes. Everything that lies in-between is subject to well..subjectivity and takes more careful analysis to determine if the context and subsequent interpretation holds any water or not. Of course there are those who would adhere to other religions who borrow from and utilize parts of scripture; or some aberrant mixture of truth and error so as to perpetuate whatever deception is being practiced. For now I am putting aside considerations of that camp and focusing on PRIMARY meanings of the Bible and its basic truths. Some of these things may; as our founding fathers said seem "self-evident"; but nonetheless it is possible that our own mind as well as local traditions and cultures may skew things unknowingly in a certain direction that the passage may or may not be saying. Hence; we are all to be "Bereans" (see Acts 17:11).
It may seem an absurd question to ask why do we read the Bible; particularly on this site. I need to look at myself; first and foremost when asking that question so if anything; I am not endlessly pontificating to glorify some intellectual prowess that I claim to possess and do nothing more than puff my pride ( 1 Cor. 8:1 and other passages). Again; on this subject I am not going to focus on the nonbeliever despite the fact it would seem this question is more appropriate for them.
Let us go back for a second to consider those in the early church who didn't have possession of much or any of the scrolls.
We only seee Jesus reading the scroll lonce in synagogue; otherwise orating.
"Now the Spirit speaketh expressly, that in the latter times some shall depart from the faith, giving heed to seducing spirits, and doctrines of devils;"
1 Corinthians 1:23-24
23 But we preach Christ crucified, unto the Jews a stumblingblock, and unto the Greeks foolishness;
24 But unto them which are called, both Jews and Greeks, Christ the power of God, and the wisdom of God.
Going from the last discussion on Cathechisms; doctrine is at the core and essense of that topic. All commitments which we adhere to especially related to church membership in regard to doctrine in the Cathechism should be based on scriptural truth.
Clearly in today's churches we see many variations of interpretation and many are spurious. I am not here primarily to bash any particular denomination; but asking us to be Bereans in studying the Word to be approved before men and God ( Acts 17:11). It is noteable that the Bereans were said to be more noble than the Thessalonians especially since they came to quick understanding of deep prophetic texts. I am not aware that they were even an organized church; per se; maybe someone can shed light on that. In any event NO church hierarchy should dissuade careful study of scripture before any commitment is made; or any statement is said to be factual at least in terms of things that aren't core doctrines such as the life; burial and resurrection and bodily return of Christ. This stems back to my last post as well; because as I see it having kids memorize and study chatechisms before showing evidence of saving faith in Protestant circles is no different than those of Catholic churches which have ritual readings such as the "Hail Mary".
In any event; these verses quoted attempt to keep central teachings always in mind; as well as being careful for new interpretations and errant versions of the Bible. In brief if it appeals to the flesh it is to be avoided in worship.
Jesus the Messiah/Christ God's only begotten Son is the purpose, I do not know if I am reading your question correctly, may you and others have more or different understandings.
1 Corinthians 2:16 tells us we have the mind of Christ, but no one can know the mind of God. 2 Peter 3:18 tells us to grow in grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus. All began with Jesus; Jesus is the beginning of God's plan. Isaiah 45:18Isaiah 46:8-10 God and there is none like Him, He declared the end from the beginning His counsel (His purpose and plan by His will) shall stand and God will do all His pleasure, Psalms 33:11.
God is not in our time the end of His plan is as the beginning God's plan was completed when He made it, we have the Bible, and with the guidance of the Holy Spirit His plan is made known to us as our time comes to be, as in Ephesians 1:10-12 to be the praise and glory to God.
God declared from the very beginnings of history, Acts 17:24-26 there is but one human race, we all are of the same blood, and in Jesus Christ we become brothers and sisters. In God's plan, it is finished, nothing will change. In God, it is finished already to Him who is from everlasting to everlasting, Psalms 90:2 and how He can "calleth those things which be not as though they were." Romans 4:17-18.
Ephesians 2:10 For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them.
Ephesians 1:3-4 Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who hath blessed us with all spiritual blessings in heavenly places in Christ: 4 According as he hath chosen us in him before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy and without blame before him in love:
Vs 5 The plan of God, predetermined glory, Jesus knew the Scriptures. All that was to happen to Him and the glory He would receive after He suffered on the cross had already been spoken by the prophets in the past tense as though they had already happened.
As Jesus was on the road to Emmaus in Luke 24:25-26, He talks about them not believing what the prophets had written about what was to happen to Jesus. The first man to be raised from the dead in a glorified body and God placed Him on His right hand on the throne a man, not a god.
Jesus was a man who was tempted like us and fulfilled all His Father asked Him we see hundreds of prophecies Jesus fulfilled and the man Jesus did it without one sin. Only a man could undo what the first man did. God could not do that because He cannot sin or die. The law was made for man and the curse of sin was on man, not God.
In Verses 20-22, Jesus had not yet been crucified and the glory the Father had given Him Jesus has given it to us today "but for them also which shall believe on me through their word;" This glory we will receive when Jesus returns and we are resurrected in our glorified bodies, we have it now, but it will not be manifest until Jesus returns.
If Jesus was a co-equal God in the three-person God, how could He be given anything He would already have it? Malachi 3:6 says God does not change so God cannot change, Numbers 23:19Isaiah 46:10Psalm 33:11Acts 17:26 The glory Jesus was asking for, He would receive when He resurrected.
The Spirit could not be given because Jesus had not been glorified (resurrected) John 7:39 Things were hidden from the disciples until Jesus was glorified (resurrected) John 12:16.
2 Timothy 1:9-10 It was given before creation so, John 17:24 we will be where He is when we are resurrected, Jesus was given glory with the Father before all creation in God's mind and plan. Ephesians 1:4
I hope this makes sense I am not the best at this.
As I said I am not the best in explaining my understanding and I will try, I feel you deserve it, for you have been gracious to even discuss this with me.
1 Corinthians 15:47 This is after Jesus was raised from the dead and Paul is saying our Lord. First the earthy the first Adam then the spiritual the last Adam Jesus who did come from heaven when Jesus, God's Son was conceived in Mary's womb.
We see in Acts 2:36 Therefore let all the house of Israel know assuredly, that God hath made the same Jesus, whom ye have crucified, both Lord and Christ. Jesus defeated death because He was without sin the firstborn from the dead the only man who lived a perfect life. After He was baptized and anointed God gave Him authority John 5:26-27.
Matthew 1:20Acts 17:31Rev. 12:5 My understanding is the preexistence of Jesus was in God's plan before anything was created. A man caused sin to enter mankind and it had to be a man to live a perfect life to fulfill and make void the law, God could not do that.
Hebrews 1:5 Jesus is not a God there is only one true God, Jesus is the only begotten Son of God. a man who is God's Son conceived in Mary, who God raised in a glorified body and placed Him on His right side on His throne above all that is in heaven and earth and under the earth.
To Brother Ronald Whittemore & others. I'm unable to respond to Ronald's last response to me, as the Reply button is missing (probably purposely done to limit the comments in that thread). So this one comes as a new Thread to address those matters.
Page 1.
Thanks again Ronald, and I note that you would like a recess on this discussion. But if I might briefly address the Scriptures you shared & why I believe that they don't answer the question, 'was Jesus' first appearance only from the womb of Mary, or did He exist in another Form within the Person of God?'
To your references:
1 Corinthians 15:47: "the second man is the Lord from Heaven" (not a Man Who became Lord, Who went into Heaven & then returned to Earth as Lord from Heaven - but the Lord Who was in Heaven & came to Earth, unlike the first man, Adam, Who was created from the Earth & back to the Earth he went).
1 Timothy 2:5: yes, Jesus is the Mediator now between God & mankind after His ascension.
Matthew 1:20, Acts 17:31, Revelation 12:5: yes again, all point to Jesus as a Man/Babe Who came from God - but no direct reference to any previous existence.
Hebrews 1:5: indeed, Jesus became the Son of God by virtue of this miraculous Birth, but then God would have created another god, because 'all the angels of God are to worship Him'; & none can receive worship but God alone. You asked, "How could God say I will be to him a Father and he shall be to me a Son if Jesus eternally existed with the Father?" Because God took His Word & gave Flesh to that Word, and this Flesh was brought into the World by the Work of God, which made this One called Jesus, God's Son. Jesus only became the Son of God at the Incarnation.
Hebrews 2:7: Jesus was made "a little lower than the angels" by virtue of His Humanity. It seems there is an order of created beings before God: the angels being above humanity, of which Jesus was made, thus subjecting Him to being our equal.
I thank you for discussing this and I consider you as a brother in Christ. I do not feel I have represented Scripture in any kind of mystical or spiritual way. I am not trying to convince you, but to explain my understanding. I believe Jesus was a man same as the first Adam without sin, 1 Cor. 15:471 Timothy 2:5 Jesus is the only begotten Son of God miraculously conceived, born of the virgin Mary, Matthew 1:20Acts 17:31Rev. 12:5
Take Hebrews 1: 5 For unto which of the angels said he at any time, Thou art my Son, this day have I begotten thee? And again, I will be to him a Father? How could God say I will be to him a Father and he shall be to me a Son if Jesus eternally existed with the Father.
Hebrews 2:7 from Psalms 8:5-6 God the Father made and set Jesus His only begotten Son over all His works of His hands this tells me the Father is the creator. 1 Corinthians 15:24-28Philippians 2:9. To me that is simply saying God the Father is superior and they are not coequal, God the Father highly exalted Jesus His Son.
Christ means He is the Anointed One nothing is above God so God cannot be anointed or anoint Himself, God is the one who anoints, as Jesus was anointed with the full measure of the Holy Spirit/Ghost when He was baptized by John the Baptist. We also see in 1 Corinthians 11:3 This to me shows they are not equal, and God the Father is the head over all.
1 Peter 1:19-21 If Jesus preexisted how could he be foreordained? Eph. 1:10
Chris, I may could say more, maybe we can pick this back up again, but I hope you have some idea of my understanding, this is not to end this but just to pause I hope that is ok.
Jesus to me is Devine He is the Devine only begotten Son of God. He has been placed over all that is in heaven and earth and every knee will bow to Him. You do not think He had a beginning; I believe His beginning was in God's plan before any creation and was brought forth in the fulness of time.
Re: Colossians 1:16. 'en auto'. In my Lexicon, I do read it as you do, that 'in Him' (en auto) is given. Though looking at 'en', other prepositions are also provided, viz. on, at, by, with. Without getting too deep into something I'm unqualified in (leave that with Giannis or Jesse), the explanation given for using 'en' for this verse is, "of that in which other things are contained and upheld, as their cause and origin: i.e., in God. In God is found the cause why we live, Acts 17:28; in Christ, as the divine hypostatic, in him resides the cause why all things were originally created, Colossians 1:16 (the cause both instrumental and final as well)." Very wordy for sure, but the way I read it, is that if we see Colossians 1:16 as "For (in) him (Jesus) were all things created", then 'in Jesus (the Divine Hypostatic = the underlying reality or substance), God has allowed all created things to find its origin & cause'. Then could it be understood that if Jesus was the origin & cause of creation, would the KJB be wrong by its translation, "For (by) him were all things created"?
And finally, Hebrews 1:3,4. I can agree with you in part: that He was "made so much better than the angels, as he hath by inheritance obtained a more excellent name than they". Clearly, this comparison of Jesus to the angelic host was as a result of His Coming & completed Work of Salvation - and of course rising into Glory & seated at the Father's right Hand. And so the Angels of God worship Him (v6). So, now to the word 'made'. You wrote, "He was made, means He was not before He completed what His Father sent Him to do." Again, we appeal to the Greek (& to our brethren here), the word here is 'genomenos' (having become/come into being/happen). Could our KJB have used a word ('made') that does not correctly reflect the original? Loosely, 'made' or 'becoming' can be similar in usage, if made is not meant as 'created' but as 'changed in position/rank'. Onto Page 3.
There is much in this chapter, your question is God in this verse the Godhead or the Father?
To answer; in context Jesus was telling parables and the Pharisees, and the Sadducees were trying to trip Jesus up. These verses were about the resurrection, the Pharisees believed in the resurrection, but the Sadducees did not. In verse 31 Jesus asked them haven't you read; Job 19:25-27Psalm 17:15Psalm 49:15 "which was spoken unto you by God" so Jesus is referring to His Father who is God.
What does the word Godhead mean? Does it mean a Triune God? It is in three verses, Acts 17:29Rom. 1:20Col. 2:9. Translated from Greek words which means divine, divinity, or deity, that was replaced with another English word that was not a word until the 1500s and placed only in these three verses and the reason is questionable.
Study for your conscience in prayer with an open mind and through the Holy Spirit, God will show you the truth.
Hi Jema: I know I'm a bit late replying to this but I just now read the whole thread of what happened and I am so glad you and GiGi and Giannis are good to go with each other and I'm sorry my reaction was so strong and I caused trouble. I'm trying not to do that again. I am back to discussing the Sabbath with Giannis again, unless he doesn't want to then I won't. The only reason I continue to discuss the Sabbath is because (I'm not insulting Giannis, only stating my perception of these discussions and why I'm hanging on like a Pitbull LOL.) I don't feel like he has responded to my questions about why he believes that the breaking of bread can only mean the weekly service of the Early Church - that there can be no other possible interpretation. All his beliefs in the Early Church abandoning the Sabbath for Sunday worship are based on the breaking of bread premise that it had to only mean that it refers to the weekly meeting of the Early Church. Some scriptures do state that the Church met on the first day of the week, Sunday but that could just simply mean the church met on Sunday at different times other then on the Sabbath just as churches meet on different days today. For example, John 20:19 (the Church gathered together on the first day of the week because they were afraid of the Jews, not because it was time for church.) Giannis also used historical writings to back up his belief that the Early Church stopped worshipping on the Sabbath and I couldn't agree to that. (Giannis if you read this post, please don't think I am talking behind your back. I would never do that I am just trying to explain why I haven't given up on the Sabbath.) He asked me to provide scripture that validated they didn't give up on the Sabbath and I gave him a lot but he just wouldn't accept them with no real response why. All you have to do read these few and you can see that the Early church was keeping the Sabbath holy.. Acts 17:2, Acts 13:14, Acts 15:21, Acts 18:4. God Bless :)
John 10:34- seems to be a popular verse here. People want to believe they are a god, is that what's happening here? That would be a gross misinterpretation. You know this is a quote with a question mark at the end, right? Let's be honest about it. Here's the commentary for that:
Christ's argument is: If your law calls judges gods, why should I be held guilty of blasphemy for saying that I am the Son of God?
As per the other argument trying to discredit the word "one" sounds like your argument is that one doesn't really mean one, because Jesus used it to describe believers being one. I don't see how being one in unity as Christ's body somehow means that all the Bible verses about Jesus being God and divine suddenly don't apply? The verse about the Father and Son being one is only one of MANY verses competing the picture. The Bible already says Jesus the Word is God so how can you disregard that?
God: "In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God." John 1:1 KJV
You: Word was "NOT" God?
"Then said they unto him, Where is thy Father? Jesus answered, Ye neither know me, nor my Father: if ye had known me, ye should have known my Father also." John 8:19 KJV
Have you thought about how your belief reconciles with verses like this above?
Isaiah 7:14 -
Yes, Jesus is called Immanuel which means "God with us". People called Jesus "God". He's King of King and Lord of Lords. Alpha and Omega, first and last. Do you believe Jesus is Lord? I believe that is a requirement for even being a Christian. A Christ follower should know who Christ is.
1 John 5:7-8
John 10:30
John 8:19
Genesis 1:26
Genesis 11:6-7 (plural "us" which includes Jesus, as per John 1:1)
Thank you for this discussion, it is good to hear salvation is not dependent on this doctrine I have been told in many Churches I have attended I was not saved and was a heretic and shunned.
You know Greek better than I, but my understanding is the word Godhead which was added in the 1500s was translated twice and is misleading. Godhead is in the Bible 3 times, Acts 17:29, Greek word theios which means divine, Romans 1:20, Greek word theiotes which means divinity, divine nature, and Colossians 2:9 Greek word Theotetos which means deity.
The verse Colossians 2:9, in Jesus, dwelleth all the fulness of the deity of God, Jesus was filled without measure with God's Spirit/Holy Spirit John 3:34. John the Baptist said God had told him when Jesus was anointed/baptized John 1:32-33. God dwelt in Jesus and empowered Him by the Spirit. God gave Jesus power and authority Matthew 11:27. In John 1:14 we probably differ, God in Jesus dwelt/tabernacled among us. God was manifest in Jesus, John 12:49John 14:10.
Mark 2:5-8 in Matthew 11:25 Things were hidden from the wise and prudent, Scribes, Sadducees, and Pharisees were the ones accusing Jesus of blasphemy, as we see in Matthew 9:6-8, the same event multitudes glorified God. Jesus was given full authority in Matthew 28:18 and John 17:2-3 that we should know the only true God and Jesus Christ whom the Father sent, same as all the introductions, greetings, and blessings given to the followers of Christ in the New Testament were from God our Father and our Lord Jesus Christ and in Revelation 21:22.
All authority has been given to Jesus by the Father until the last enemy, death is put under His feet, 1 Corinthians 15:25-28Revelation 20:14.
Thanks for your comment to post. Unfortunately, in my response to Chris's post, I forgot to mention the fact that I can also know why God gave us/me His Spirit when I came to Him as a repentant sinner. Because the Spirit is within me to do God the Father's will. The Spirit directs my path, convicts my conscience, and reassures me that when I sin and confess, God forgives and we continue on. He corrects me, humbles me before I get in trouble and is my everyday companion, though sometimes I may not act like He's around. He points me to Jesus always, and Jesus points me to His Father and tells me to keep going and not quit.
One of my many favorite stories in the Word is where Paul is in Athens at Mar's Hill and preaches to them the fact that God is not far from any of us ( Acts 17:27), He's only a prayer away from the vilest sinner and that was me at one time. Thank you, Shabbat Keeper, for allowing me to correct myself, and blessings to you.
30And the times of this ignorance GOD winked at;but now commandeth all men every where to repent:
31Because He hath appointed a Day,in the which He will Judge the world in righteousness by that man whom He hath ordained; whereof He hath given assurance unto ALL men,in that He hath raised him from the dead.
Mat.28:18-And JESUS came and spake unto them,saying,All power is given unto me in heaven and in earth.
Luke 10:19-20
19Behold,I give unto you power to tread on serpents and scorpions,and over ALL the power of the enemy:and nothing shall by any means hurt you.
20Notwithstanding in this rejoice not,that the spirits are subject unto you;but rather rejoice,because your names are written in heaven.
Joel 2:1-11
1Blow the trumpet in Zion,sound an alarm in my holy mountain:let all the inhabitants of the land tremble:the Lord's Day comes...
2A Day of darkness and of gloominess,a Day of clouds and of thick darkness...a great people and a strong there has not been ever the like,neither shall be any more after it...
3A fire devoures before them;and behind them a flame burns:the land is as the garden of Eden before them,and behind them a desolate wilderness...
5Like the noise of chariots on the tops of mountains shall they leap, like the noise of a flame of fire that devoures the stubble,as a strong people set in battle array.
6Before their face the people shall be much pained...
7They shall run like mighty men;they shall climb the wall like men of war;and they shall march every one on his ways,and they shall not break their ranks:
8...and when they fall upon the sword,they shall not be wounded.
9They shall run to and fro in the city;they shall run upon the wall, they shall climb up upon the houses;they shall enter in at the windows like a thief.
10The earth shall quake before them...
11And the Lord shall utter His voice before His army:His camp is very great:He is strong that executes His Word:the Day of the Lord is great,very terrible;and who can abide it?
Being then God's offspring, we ought not to think that the divine being is like gold or silver or stone, an image formed by the art and imagination of man.
God has many warnings in scripture regarding not making idols of created beings or heavenly objects such as the moon and stars. This verse shows how God cannot be reduced to a man made concept or picture."
Would you not then agree that the concept of the trinity falls under such category as an "IMAGE and IMAGINATION OF MAN"?
If the concept is not taught anywhere in the Bible, that succinctly defines it as a creation/imagination of man.
The concept of God being three persons is an IDOL, it is an IMAGE created by the IMAGINATION OF MAN.
This IDOL has been sold to the masses, it has been delivered to hundreds of millions, if not billions, who accept and embrace it without question or personal investigation into its Scriptural authenticity.
Being then God's offspring, we ought not to think that the divine being is like gold or silver or stone, an image formed by the art and imagination of man.
God has many warnings in scripture regarding not making idols of created beings or heavenly objects such as the moon and stars. This verse shows how God cannot be reduced to a man made concept or picture.
Colossians 1:15 states: "He is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn of all creation." This verse is discussing Christ who although He came in a man is part of the Godhead; so certainly we shouldn't have images of Him either; especially to be venerated or worshipped. As to whether; say a stained glass window is equally offensive we have to look to the heart of those who are attending a church service; as sadly some even with such an object as that will find some feature that seems to have some supernatural light in the image which is idolotry. The same could be said for the Apostles on such imagery; a Protestant wouldn't have any desire normally to make it an idol; but other denominations such as Greek Orthodox have statues of "saints" which clearly constitute worship that is against scripture.
John 1:18 states that no man has ever seen God but in Christ we in a sense see Him. His attributes including the Godhead are said to be clear from creation ( Romans 1:20). This was said to be known from the time of Creation according to the beginning of this verse. This shows that only later the nations departed from the knowledge that Adam and his immediate descendants would have instilled in them; there was deliberate rebellion against the Creator throughout the earth; both after the garden and after the flood with the tower of Babel and then God confusing the languages and scattering men throughout the earth (see Genesis 10:25 on likely splitting off of continents and dispersion of men).
Is says earth, most cases referring to the ground we walk on. Did God divide the earth as in the continents or placed them in land already separated (continents) as they are today? Like the world, 5 Hebrew translations, 3 Greek. Earth though all refer to the ground, dirt, soil in all three translations.
1 Chronicles 1:19 - And unto Eber were born two sons: the name of the one was Peleg; because in his days the earth was divided: and his brother's name was Joktan.
Genesis 10:25
"And unto Eber were born two sons: the name of one was Peleg; for in his days was the earth divided; and his brother's name was Joktan."
Genesis 10:32 - These are the families of the sons of Noah, after their generations, in their nations: and by these were the nations divided in the earth after the flood.
Genesis 11:16-19 - And Eber lived four and thirty years, and begat Peleg:And Eber lived after he begat Peleg four hundred and thirty years, and begat sons and daughters.And Peleg lived thirty years, and begat Reu:And Peleg lived after he begat Reu two hundred and nine years, and begat sons and daughters.
Deuteronomy 32:8 - When the most High divided to the nations their inheritance, when he separated the sons of Adam, he set the bounds of the people according to the number of the children of Israel.
Luke 3:35-36 - Which was the son of Saruch, which was the son of Ragau, which was the son of Phalec, which was the son of Heber, which was the son of Sala,Which was the son of Cainan, which was the son of Arphaxad, which was the son of Sem, which was the son of Noe, which was the son of Lamech,
Acts 17:26 - And hath made of one blood all nations of men for to dwell on all the face of the earth, and hath determined the times before appointed, and the bounds of their habitation;
Just a question not to offend, just to inspire thought and study. Do you think when God placed Adam in the Garden of Eden and told Adam he could eat from every tree and fruit of the garden but one tree? God declared the end from the beginning do you think He did not know what Adam was going to do?
I am sorry, but on some subjects, I struggle to convey my understanding. To continue in sin and repentance is not what I was saying and not the way I am living. Daily repentance and obedience are not living in doubt the power of God's forgiveness. It is a daily lifestyle repentance is a way to progress in our sanctification a pattern of life to endure until the end we forsake sin daily not just one time.
It is through the repentance of all the sins we have done and the glory we give to God through the faith and obedience of Jesus Christ that we can be forgiven. Repentance is the foundation of our lives it is the beginning and the end of our life.
We can get slack, but we must every day test ourselves that we are walking in the Spirit and are striving to endure until the end and that starts with being obedient and repentant as we have been commanded to do, 1 John 1:9Luke 13:3Matt. 4:17Acts 17:30. We will be absent from the presence of sin when we are glorified at our resurrection.
Always verify what clergy tries to teach you via the bible itself..
Acts 17:11 (KJV) 11 These were more noble than those in Thessalonica, in that they received the word with all readiness of mind, and searched the scriptures daily, whether those things were so.
Moral dilemmas: Knowing the difference between right and wrong.
The scriptures have situations where God accomplishes His purposes despite the behaviors of His messengers or those fulfilling His will. We see Sampson; and his attraction to Philistine women which eventually degraded to being involved with Delilah; a prostitute that brought him shame and ruin ( Judges 16). God eventually used this to allow Sampson to be humbled through blindness then deliberately end his life and thus defeat more Philistines than he did all his life ( Judges 16:29).
We see Jonah and his deliberate disobedience in going to Tarshish rather than Nineveh. God somehow used his message to not only convince repentance from the top leadership to the common people in Nineveh; but also for those he was travelling with on the ship after they were forced to toss Jonah into the sea to save themselves from shipwreck.
Even the story of Esther is questionable from what some interpret happened in a Harem type situation; she also took over as wife of the king which would be considered adultery. It could still be considered as a second wife since divorce is NEVER mentioned in the Bible except Joseph's consideration of it with Mary. It was discussed as an action that could be taken in Deut. 24 but no saints of God or anyone else are mentioned even among pagans that did such a thing. Food for thought....
God would wink at certain things in the past but now of course we are at a higher standard under Christ. ( Acts 17:30). No doubt rewards were lost for those who weren't dealt with in this life if repentance didn't occur; we don't see specific chastising mentioning the particular sins of Sampson (perhaps implied in his death); and for Jonah there seems to be no indication that he ever had the love for the Ninevites at the end of the story; we only see God's rebuke for him feeling sorry for a plant instead.
In upcoming posts we will consider situations where right and wrong appear nebulous.
Well said brother, likewise reckon, we should think or consider and live a life as if we are dead to sin. Some take it as it is a one-time deal, and they are good to go. But is it conditional? If we are conditionally accepted there is something on our part, we must do to be accepted. Our faith, like Abraham, is that God is the only true God and He can and will reward us. We must choose to come to Him on His terms or continue in the ways of the world and if we do we will receive the gift of faith from God, His calling.
What must we do? We are all sinners in need of God's mercy, or our sins will remain, not forgiven, blotted out, or paid for unless we come to repentance as we are commanded to, Acts 17:30. If we obey we will enter His mercy, and our sins will be blotted out, Prov.28:13 Is. 55:7 1 John 1:9Acts 3:19. Our past sins that separated us from God, Is. 59:1-2.
With repentance and confession, we are no longer separated from God, no longer under condemnation we enter justification, made right with God we enter the presence of the Lord, Acts 3:19. Baptized into Christ we begin a relationship through the Holy Spirit to all who obey and repent, Acts 2:38.
To remain in justification, we must continue to follow the lead He provides through the Holy Spirit, Rom. 8:1Rom 8:12-14. While we remain in Justification and repentance Jesus continues to cover by His blood the penalty for sins we commit, 1 John 1:7.
Paul, we know was chosen by Jesus and he was filled with the Holy Spirit, but he said even he could be a castaway, 1 Cor. 9:25-27. Even with the seal of the earnest of the Holy Spirit, a downpayment is for what we are at that time, if we fall back, it can be forfeited if we are not willing to remain repentant. If we choose to walk by the flesh and not after the Spirit we return to condemnation and we will perish, John 15:6 the word IF, we will have to pay the penalty for sin ourselves, Rev. 21:8.
I ended my last post briefly discussing the Persian; Greek and Roman empires which would all have a part of history when they affected Israel. In the Persian empire Cyrus the Great (see Ezra) would allow the Temple to be rebuilt even though he didn't know the Lord he showed favor to Israel. ( Isaiah 45:4-6). Later Antiochus Epiphanes as a type of Antichrist would during the intertestamental period take over the Temple (actually part of the Syrian empire but also spread Greek cultural ideas). God through the Macabees fought back and eventually they were defeated. Finally; of course the Roman empire would have a tenuous existance with the Jewish nation; and be a part of Christ's crucifixion. They also; (until today's modern version still forming) would be defeated.
We see examples of God working with Nebuchadnezzar to bring about true conversion. We also see examples such as Naaman the Syrian in 2 Kings 5 who God healed; as well as the story of Jonah with the Ninevites who repented and God spared for a time of judgment; but in the book of Nahum God's patience ran out and they were destroyed. We also see examples such as Ruth who was a Gentile that came to believe and became part of the royal lineage and even Rahab in the same light. In general though God winked at certain things in the past but ( Acts 17:30-31) but now in New Testament times there were stricter standards.
Christ would also begin with only ministering to the "lost sheep of Israel". ( Matthew 15:24 but mentioned earlier when the 70 were sent out). In this case a Gentile woman showed great faith and Christ healed her daughter. The plan now was to fulfill the prophecies in Isaiah 42:1-9 about being a light to the Gentiles. This began with Christ spending much time with the Samaritan woman and others possessed by demons which added to crowds from surrounding nations; and showed the lack of faith in his own hometown as a contrast ( Mark 6:4).
I agree with Gigi, We are to gather from those who are gifted to teach, preach, and proclaim.
Jesus said; He is truth!
He also said, "My sheep hear my voice!
When truth is proclaimed it's Christ spirit in us that discerns it.
In 1 Corinthians 3:5-7 Paul illustrates this concept of teaching.
We are to do as the Bereans in Acts 17:11 and test the scriptures to see if these things be true.
I believe we should approach the scripture as babes in Christ and not just examine others doctrine but also constantly examining our own, testing scripture with scripture and applying proper hermeneutics.
We take what we have learned from others and see if it holds up over time as we grow.
And so, Timothy was considered Jewish. And in case some of the Hebrew and Jewish people would hear that he's Jewish as he's traveling and wanted to corner him and pin him down as to whether he's been circumcised, and whether he's been through the synagogue ceremonies, Paul had him circumcised so that he would be free to preach the gospel in the synagogues.
Timothy was ordained by Paul and the Presbytery ( I Timothy 4:14; II Timothy 1:6).
He accompanies Paul on his third missionary trip ( Acts 19:22; Acts 20:4; II Corinthians 1:1, 19).
Timothy ministered in at least five churches as Paul's representative. He sent Timothy to:
1) Thessalonica ( I Thessalonians 3:2, 6).
2) Corinth ( I Corinthians 4:17; 16:10; II Corinthians 1:19).
3) Philippi ( Philippians 2:19-23).
4) Berea ( Acts 17:14).
5) Ephesus ( I Timothy 1:3).
Timothy was with Paul during Paul's first imprisonment ( Philippians 1:1; Colossians 1:1; Philemon 1:1) and went to Philippi after Paul's release ( Philippians 2:19-23).
After Paul's release from his first imprisonment ( Acts 28:30), he revisited several cities leaving Timothy at Ephesus.
Paul went on to Macedonia from where he wrote Timothy this letter ( I Timothy 3:14-15).
Timothy was around 35-years of age when Paul wrote I Timothy.
Paul was arrested in Troas and taken to Rome and imprisoned for the second and last time.
Timothy also suffered imprisonment ( Hebrews 13:23).
Timothy ministered in at least 5 churches as Paul's representative:
1) Thessalonica ( I Thessalonians 3:2, 6)
2) Corinth ( I Corinthians 4:17; 16:10; II Corinthians 1:19)
3) Philippi ( Philippians 2:19-23)
4) Berea ( Acts 17:14)
5) Ephesus ( I Timothy 1:3)
So, here's somebody who spent 15-20 years with Paul all the time. He knew his teaching. He was able to live with him and watch his walk with the Lord, and he was sent out as Paul's representative to these different churches.
Timothy was with Paul during Paul's first imprisonment ( Philippians 1:1; Colossians 1:1; Philemon 1:1) and went to Philippi after Paul's release ( Philippians 2:19-23). After Paul's release from his first imprisonment ( Acts 28:30), he revisited several cities leaving Timothy at Ephesus.
Paul went to Macedonia where he wrote Timothy this letter ( I Timothy 3:14-15). Timothy was around 35-years old when Paul wrote I Timothy. Timothy also suffered imprisonment ( Hebrews 13:23).
IV. DATE OF THE LETTER:
Written around 62 - 63 A.D. between Paul's first and second imprisonment. Paul wrote both 1 Timothy and Titus during this time. Paul was arrested again sometime after 64 A.D. and condemned to death. July, 64 A.D was when Rome was burned by Nero and blamed on the Christians. So, from 64 A.D. onward, Christianity was an illegal religion.
That's why there was persecution all the way from 64 A.D. to 313 A.D. Christians were persecuted and put to death because Christianity was an illegal religion until Constantine decided to bring Christianity from the underground and make it a legal religion.
Christianity joined Constantine's sun worship religion, which is why we have a lot of the traditions we have in the church today. It hasn't come from the bible. It hasn't come from the Christian church in the first 300 years. It came from Constantine's false religious system.
Paul wrote this letter during his second imprisonment; he also wrote II Timothy.
We find in 2 Thessalonians that Paul's going to say that if anybody comes to you, whether it's through a spirit, making reference to somebody giving "personal revelation," by a spirit! Or whether it's through a letter, and 2 Thessalonians was written because a false letter was being circulated by false teachers that had Paul's name on it.
So, he says even if it's through a letter, or through a spirit, and it counters and contradicts what we're saying, it's false! Of course, how would the Christians in Thessalonica know that some of the things went against what Paul taught? And that's why he hurried and turned around and wrote a second letter to the Christians in Thessalonica.
I. ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Paul and his companions Silvanus and Timothy ( II Thessalonians 1:1; 3:17). Paul's inscription is on all thirteen of his letters.
II. TO WHOM IT WAS WRITTEN:
To the believers in Thessalonica who were made up of mostly Gentiles, but some Jews believed also (Acts17:4).
III. THE HISTORY OF THE CHURCH IN THESSALONICA:
Paul evangelized the area of Philippi, Thessalonica, and Berea during his Second Missionary journey along with Silvanus and Timothy ( Acts 17:1-9).
Paul ministered in Thessalonica for at least three weeks ( Acts 17:2).
Unbelieving Jews stirred up the unbelieving Gentiles against Paul ( Acts 17:5-9).
Paul, Silvanus, and Timothy left Thessalonica and went on to Berea ( Acts 17:10).
Hostile Thessalonian Jews followed Paul to Berea and stirred up the people against Paul ( Acts 17:13).
Paul left Silvanus and Timothy in Berea while he went on to Athens ( Acts 17:14).
Paul sent for Silvanus and Timothy to join him in Athens ( Acts 17:15).
From Athens, Paul sent Timothy back to Thessalonica to check on the welfare of the believers there ( I Thessalonians 3:1-2).
Paul also sent Silvanus back to Philippi while he went on to Corinth ( Acts 18:1).
Silvanus and Timothy rejoin Paul in Corinth ( Acts 18:5).
Paul and his companions Silvanus and Timothy ( I Thessalonians 1:1; 2:18). Again, Paul's inscription is on all thirteen of his letters. He personally wrote 1 Thessalonians, but he has Silvanus (and we see that he's the same as Silas in the scriptures), and then Timothy. They traveled with him during his 2nd missionary trip. And so, they are with Paul in Corinth when he is writing this letter back to the Christians in Thessalonica.
II. TO WHOM IT WAS WRITTEN:
To the believers in Thessalonica who were made up of mostly Gentiles, but some Jews believed also. Acts 17:4 tells us about Paul's ministry there in Thessalonica.
III. THE HISTORY OF THE CHURCH IN THESSALONICA:
Paul evangelized the area of Philippi, Thessalonica, and Berea during his Second Missionary journey, along with Silvanus and Timothy. That's recorded in Acts 17:1-9.
Paul ministered in Thessalonica for at least three weeks ( Acts 17:2).
Unbelieving Jews stirred up the unbelieving Gentiles against Paul ( Acts 17:5-9).
Paul, Silvanus, and Timothy left Thessalonica and went on to Berea ( Acts 17:10).
Hostile Thessalonian Jews followed Paul to Berea and stirred up the people against Paul ( Acts 17:13).
Paul left Silvanus and Timothy in Berea while he went on to Athens ( Acts 17:14).
Paul sent for Silvanus and Timothy to join him in Athens ( Acts 17:15).
From Athens, Paul sent Timothy back to Thessalonica to check on the welfare of the believers there ( I Thessalonians 3:1-2).
Paul also sent Silvanus back to Philippi while he went on to Corinth ( Acts 18:1).
Silvanus and Timothy rejoin Paul in Corinth ( Acts 18:5).
After Silvanus and Timothy returned, Paul wrote the first letter to the Thessalonians based on Timothy's good report ( Acts 18:5).
Godhead is a word that is in 3 verses in the KJV. Acts 17:29Romans 1:20 and Colossians 2:9. Godhead comes from an Old English word godhede in 1200 AD. In Acts it is the Greek word theios that means divine, manifesting the characteristics of God's nature. In Romans, it is the Greek word theiots that means divinity, divine nature. In Colossians, it is the Greek word theots that mean deity, fulness of deity.
These are three different Greek words that the translators chose to translate Godhead. You ask is the Godhead one God or three persons? Some use this word to refer to the doctrine of the Trinity but in the context of the chapters this word is used, does not refer to that.
Godhead is God the Father himself, it pleased him to have all His divine fullness to dwell in His only begotten Son. The meaning for the word Godhead is the divine nature of God that was manifested in His only begotten Son, John 10:38John 14:10.
Your question is more about the doctrine of the Trinity I am sure others would reply on that.
I agree with Jaz, You dont have to go into these collection of 66 books with understanding.
You go into these books with faith and searching for the truth.
It's God who reveals truth and opens up understanding.
So, you should relax and wait on God and pray for understanding as you go.
Read it for yourself and stay with a program.
Things will come together as read, you may not find the answer in the particular book you are reading but a may be revealed in another book.
As newborn babes, desire the sincere milk of the word, that ye may grow thereby: 1 Peter 2:2.
Get a good strongs concordance.
The 1st 5 books in the old testament and then the Gospels is probably a good start as Jaz said.
I would go into these books asking in prayer for guidance, (AND BELIEVE THAT GOD WILL GRANT IT)
Go into these books with CONFIDENCE IN GOD AS A LOVING FATHER READY TO TEACH.
Just know that understanding often comes later so don't loose faith.
If you decide to ask Questions, it's important to be as the berean in Acts 17:11 "they received the word with all readiness of mind, and searched the scriptures daily, whether those things were so.
Use proper hermeneutics as you grow.
I will explain that later.
God bless.
Introduction: An easy to understand analogy of proper vs improper scriptural application and comprehension is looking at the Word such as the 10 commandments spoken by God and written on the tablets that Moses brought forth from the mountain and eventually was placed in the Ark of the Covenant as compared to Satan's use of scripture which were clearly for his own diabolical purposes. Everything that lies in-between is subject to well..subjectivity and takes more careful analysis to determine if the context and subsequent interpretation holds any water or not. Of course there are those who would adhere to other religions who borrow from and utilize parts of scripture; or some aberrant mixture of truth and error so as to perpetuate whatever deception is being practiced. For now I am putting aside considerations of that camp and focusing on PRIMARY meanings of the Bible and its basic truths. Some of these things may; as our founding fathers said seem "self-evident"; but nonetheless it is possible that our own mind as well as local traditions and cultures may skew things unknowingly in a certain direction that the passage may or may not be saying. Hence; we are all to be "Bereans" (see Acts 17:11).
It may seem an absurd question to ask why do we read the Bible; particularly on this site. I need to look at myself; first and foremost when asking that question so if anything; I am not endlessly pontificating to glorify some intellectual prowess that I claim to possess and do nothing more than puff my pride ( 1 Cor. 8:1 and other passages). Again; on this subject I am not going to focus on the nonbeliever despite the fact it would seem this question is more appropriate for them.
Let us go back for a second to consider those in the early church who didn't have possession of much or any of the scrolls.
We only seee Jesus reading the scroll lonce in synagogue; otherwise orating.
1 Timothy 4:1
"Now the Spirit speaketh expressly, that in the latter times some shall depart from the faith, giving heed to seducing spirits, and doctrines of devils;"
1 Corinthians 1:23-24
23 But we preach Christ crucified, unto the Jews a stumblingblock, and unto the Greeks foolishness;
24 But unto them which are called, both Jews and Greeks, Christ the power of God, and the wisdom of God.
Going from the last discussion on Cathechisms; doctrine is at the core and essense of that topic. All commitments which we adhere to especially related to church membership in regard to doctrine in the Cathechism should be based on scriptural truth.
Clearly in today's churches we see many variations of interpretation and many are spurious. I am not here primarily to bash any particular denomination; but asking us to be Bereans in studying the Word to be approved before men and God ( Acts 17:11). It is noteable that the Bereans were said to be more noble than the Thessalonians especially since they came to quick understanding of deep prophetic texts. I am not aware that they were even an organized church; per se; maybe someone can shed light on that. In any event NO church hierarchy should dissuade careful study of scripture before any commitment is made; or any statement is said to be factual at least in terms of things that aren't core doctrines such as the life; burial and resurrection and bodily return of Christ. This stems back to my last post as well; because as I see it having kids memorize and study chatechisms before showing evidence of saving faith in Protestant circles is no different than those of Catholic churches which have ritual readings such as the "Hail Mary".
In any event; these verses quoted attempt to keep central teachings always in mind; as well as being careful for new interpretations and errant versions of the Bible. In brief if it appeals to the flesh it is to be avoided in worship.
God's eternal purpose
Jesus the Messiah/Christ God's only begotten Son is the purpose, I do not know if I am reading your question correctly, may you and others have more or different understandings.
1 Corinthians 2:16 tells us we have the mind of Christ, but no one can know the mind of God. 2 Peter 3:18 tells us to grow in grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus. All began with Jesus; Jesus is the beginning of God's plan. Isaiah 45:18 Isaiah 46:8-10 God and there is none like Him, He declared the end from the beginning His counsel (His purpose and plan by His will) shall stand and God will do all His pleasure, Psalms 33:11.
God is not in our time the end of His plan is as the beginning God's plan was completed when He made it, we have the Bible, and with the guidance of the Holy Spirit His plan is made known to us as our time comes to be, as in Ephesians 1:10-12 to be the praise and glory to God.
God declared from the very beginnings of history, Acts 17:24-26 there is but one human race, we all are of the same blood, and in Jesus Christ we become brothers and sisters. In God's plan, it is finished, nothing will change. In God, it is finished already to Him who is from everlasting to everlasting, Psalms 90:2 and how He can "calleth those things which be not as though they were." Romans 4:17-18.
Ephesians 2:10 For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them.
Ephesians 1:3-4 Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who hath blessed us with all spiritual blessings in heavenly places in Christ: 4 According as he hath chosen us in him before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy and without blame before him in love:
God bless,
RLW
Part two
Vs 5 The plan of God, predetermined glory, Jesus knew the Scriptures. All that was to happen to Him and the glory He would receive after He suffered on the cross had already been spoken by the prophets in the past tense as though they had already happened.
As Jesus was on the road to Emmaus in Luke 24:25-26, He talks about them not believing what the prophets had written about what was to happen to Jesus. The first man to be raised from the dead in a glorified body and God placed Him on His right hand on the throne a man, not a god.
Jesus was a man who was tempted like us and fulfilled all His Father asked Him we see hundreds of prophecies Jesus fulfilled and the man Jesus did it without one sin. Only a man could undo what the first man did. God could not do that because He cannot sin or die. The law was made for man and the curse of sin was on man, not God.
In Verses 20-22, Jesus had not yet been crucified and the glory the Father had given Him Jesus has given it to us today "but for them also which shall believe on me through their word;" This glory we will receive when Jesus returns and we are resurrected in our glorified bodies, we have it now, but it will not be manifest until Jesus returns.
If Jesus was a co-equal God in the three-person God, how could He be given anything He would already have it? Malachi 3:6 says God does not change so God cannot change, Numbers 23:19 Isaiah 46:10 Psalm 33:11 Acts 17:26 The glory Jesus was asking for, He would receive when He resurrected.
The Spirit could not be given because Jesus had not been glorified (resurrected) John 7:39 Things were hidden from the disciples until Jesus was glorified (resurrected) John 12:16.
2 Timothy 1:9-10 It was given before creation so, John 17:24 we will be where He is when we are resurrected, Jesus was given glory with the Father before all creation in God's mind and plan. Ephesians 1:4
I hope this makes sense I am not the best at this.
God bless,
RLW
Part one,
As I said I am not the best in explaining my understanding and I will try, I feel you deserve it, for you have been gracious to even discuss this with me.
1 Corinthians 15:47 This is after Jesus was raised from the dead and Paul is saying our Lord. First the earthy the first Adam then the spiritual the last Adam Jesus who did come from heaven when Jesus, God's Son was conceived in Mary's womb.
We see in Acts 2:36 Therefore let all the house of Israel know assuredly, that God hath made the same Jesus, whom ye have crucified, both Lord and Christ. Jesus defeated death because He was without sin the firstborn from the dead the only man who lived a perfect life. After He was baptized and anointed God gave Him authority John 5:26-27.
Matthew 1:20 Acts 17:31 Rev. 12:5 My understanding is the preexistence of Jesus was in God's plan before anything was created. A man caused sin to enter mankind and it had to be a man to live a perfect life to fulfill and make void the law, God could not do that.
Hebrews 1:5 Jesus is not a God there is only one true God, Jesus is the only begotten Son of God. a man who is God's Son conceived in Mary, who God raised in a glorified body and placed Him on His right side on His throne above all that is in heaven and earth and under the earth.
See part two.
Page 1.
Thanks again Ronald, and I note that you would like a recess on this discussion. But if I might briefly address the Scriptures you shared & why I believe that they don't answer the question, 'was Jesus' first appearance only from the womb of Mary, or did He exist in another Form within the Person of God?'
To your references:
1 Corinthians 15:47: "the second man is the Lord from Heaven" (not a Man Who became Lord, Who went into Heaven & then returned to Earth as Lord from Heaven - but the Lord Who was in Heaven & came to Earth, unlike the first man, Adam, Who was created from the Earth & back to the Earth he went).
1 Timothy 2:5: yes, Jesus is the Mediator now between God & mankind after His ascension.
Matthew 1:20, Acts 17:31, Revelation 12:5: yes again, all point to Jesus as a Man/Babe Who came from God - but no direct reference to any previous existence.
Hebrews 1:5: indeed, Jesus became the Son of God by virtue of this miraculous Birth, but then God would have created another god, because 'all the angels of God are to worship Him'; & none can receive worship but God alone. You asked, "How could God say I will be to him a Father and he shall be to me a Son if Jesus eternally existed with the Father?" Because God took His Word & gave Flesh to that Word, and this Flesh was brought into the World by the Work of God, which made this One called Jesus, God's Son. Jesus only became the Son of God at the Incarnation.
Hebrews 2:7: Jesus was made "a little lower than the angels" by virtue of His Humanity. It seems there is an order of created beings before God: the angels being above humanity, of which Jesus was made, thus subjecting Him to being our equal.
Onto Page 2.
I thank you for discussing this and I consider you as a brother in Christ. I do not feel I have represented Scripture in any kind of mystical or spiritual way. I am not trying to convince you, but to explain my understanding. I believe Jesus was a man same as the first Adam without sin, 1 Cor. 15:47 1 Timothy 2:5 Jesus is the only begotten Son of God miraculously conceived, born of the virgin Mary, Matthew 1:20 Acts 17:31 Rev. 12:5
Take Hebrews 1: 5 For unto which of the angels said he at any time, Thou art my Son, this day have I begotten thee? And again, I will be to him a Father? How could God say I will be to him a Father and he shall be to me a Son if Jesus eternally existed with the Father.
Hebrews 2:7 from Psalms 8:5-6 God the Father made and set Jesus His only begotten Son over all His works of His hands this tells me the Father is the creator. 1 Corinthians 15:24-28 Philippians 2:9. To me that is simply saying God the Father is superior and they are not coequal, God the Father highly exalted Jesus His Son.
Christ means He is the Anointed One nothing is above God so God cannot be anointed or anoint Himself, God is the one who anoints, as Jesus was anointed with the full measure of the Holy Spirit/Ghost when He was baptized by John the Baptist. We also see in 1 Corinthians 11:3 This to me shows they are not equal, and God the Father is the head over all.
1 Peter 1:19-21 If Jesus preexisted how could he be foreordained? Eph. 1:10
Chris, I may could say more, maybe we can pick this back up again, but I hope you have some idea of my understanding, this is not to end this but just to pause I hope that is ok.
Jesus to me is Devine He is the Devine only begotten Son of God. He has been placed over all that is in heaven and earth and every knee will bow to Him. You do not think He had a beginning; I believe His beginning was in God's plan before any creation and was brought forth in the fulness of time.
God bless,
RLW
Re: Colossians 1:16. 'en auto'. In my Lexicon, I do read it as you do, that 'in Him' (en auto) is given. Though looking at 'en', other prepositions are also provided, viz. on, at, by, with. Without getting too deep into something I'm unqualified in (leave that with Giannis or Jesse), the explanation given for using 'en' for this verse is, "of that in which other things are contained and upheld, as their cause and origin: i.e., in God. In God is found the cause why we live, Acts 17:28; in Christ, as the divine hypostatic, in him resides the cause why all things were originally created, Colossians 1:16 (the cause both instrumental and final as well)." Very wordy for sure, but the way I read it, is that if we see Colossians 1:16 as "For (in) him (Jesus) were all things created", then 'in Jesus (the Divine Hypostatic = the underlying reality or substance), God has allowed all created things to find its origin & cause'. Then could it be understood that if Jesus was the origin & cause of creation, would the KJB be wrong by its translation, "For (by) him were all things created"?
And finally, Hebrews 1:3,4. I can agree with you in part: that He was "made so much better than the angels, as he hath by inheritance obtained a more excellent name than they". Clearly, this comparison of Jesus to the angelic host was as a result of His Coming & completed Work of Salvation - and of course rising into Glory & seated at the Father's right Hand. And so the Angels of God worship Him (v6). So, now to the word 'made'. You wrote, "He was made, means He was not before He completed what His Father sent Him to do." Again, we appeal to the Greek (& to our brethren here), the word here is 'genomenos' (having become/come into being/happen). Could our KJB have used a word ('made') that does not correctly reflect the original? Loosely, 'made' or 'becoming' can be similar in usage, if made is not meant as 'created' but as 'changed in position/rank'. Onto Page 3.
There is much in this chapter, your question is God in this verse the Godhead or the Father?
To answer; in context Jesus was telling parables and the Pharisees, and the Sadducees were trying to trip Jesus up. These verses were about the resurrection, the Pharisees believed in the resurrection, but the Sadducees did not. In verse 31 Jesus asked them haven't you read; Job 19:25-27 Psalm 17:15 Psalm 49:15 "which was spoken unto you by God" so Jesus is referring to His Father who is God.
What does the word Godhead mean? Does it mean a Triune God? It is in three verses, Acts 17:29 Rom. 1:20 Col. 2:9. Translated from Greek words which means divine, divinity, or deity, that was replaced with another English word that was not a word until the 1500s and placed only in these three verses and the reason is questionable.
Study for your conscience in prayer with an open mind and through the Holy Spirit, God will show you the truth.
God bless,
RLW
Acts 16:13, Acts 17:2 Acts 18:4
"Protestants do not realize that by observing Sunday they accept the authority of the Spokesperson, the Pope." ( Our Sunday Visitor February 5, 1950.)
Christ's argument is: If your law calls judges gods, why should I be held guilty of blasphemy for saying that I am the Son of God?
As per the other argument trying to discredit the word "one" sounds like your argument is that one doesn't really mean one, because Jesus used it to describe believers being one. I don't see how being one in unity as Christ's body somehow means that all the Bible verses about Jesus being God and divine suddenly don't apply? The verse about the Father and Son being one is only one of MANY verses competing the picture. The Bible already says Jesus the Word is God so how can you disregard that?
God: "In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God." John 1:1 KJV
You: Word was "NOT" God?
"Then said they unto him, Where is thy Father? Jesus answered, Ye neither know me, nor my Father: if ye had known me, ye should have known my Father also." John 8:19 KJV
Have you thought about how your belief reconciles with verses like this above?
Isaiah 7:14 -
Yes, Jesus is called Immanuel which means "God with us". People called Jesus "God". He's King of King and Lord of Lords. Alpha and Omega, first and last. Do you believe Jesus is Lord? I believe that is a requirement for even being a Christian. A Christ follower should know who Christ is.
1 John 5:7-8
John 10:30
John 8:19
Genesis 1:26
Genesis 11:6-7 (plural "us" which includes Jesus, as per John 1:1)
Philippians 2:5-8
2 Corinthians 5:19
John 1:3
Matthew 28:19
1 Peter 1:2
2 Corinthians 13:14
Deuteronomy 6:4
John 14:10
John 20:28
1 John 2:22-24
Matthew 1:23-25
Colossians 2:9
Acts 17:29
Romans 1:20
Isaiah 7:14
Hebrews 1:8
Isaiah 44:6
Isaiah 43:11
Thank you for this discussion, it is good to hear salvation is not dependent on this doctrine I have been told in many Churches I have attended I was not saved and was a heretic and shunned.
You know Greek better than I, but my understanding is the word Godhead which was added in the 1500s was translated twice and is misleading. Godhead is in the Bible 3 times, Acts 17:29, Greek word theios which means divine, Romans 1:20, Greek word theiotes which means divinity, divine nature, and Colossians 2:9 Greek word Theotetos which means deity.
The verse Colossians 2:9, in Jesus, dwelleth all the fulness of the deity of God, Jesus was filled without measure with God's Spirit/Holy Spirit John 3:34. John the Baptist said God had told him when Jesus was anointed/baptized John 1:32-33. God dwelt in Jesus and empowered Him by the Spirit. God gave Jesus power and authority Matthew 11:27. In John 1:14 we probably differ, God in Jesus dwelt/tabernacled among us. God was manifest in Jesus, John 12:49 John 14:10.
Mark 2:5-8 in Matthew 11:25 Things were hidden from the wise and prudent, Scribes, Sadducees, and Pharisees were the ones accusing Jesus of blasphemy, as we see in Matthew 9:6-8, the same event multitudes glorified God. Jesus was given full authority in Matthew 28:18 and John 17:2-3 that we should know the only true God and Jesus Christ whom the Father sent, same as all the introductions, greetings, and blessings given to the followers of Christ in the New Testament were from God our Father and our Lord Jesus Christ and in Revelation 21:22.
All authority has been given to Jesus by the Father until the last enemy, death is put under His feet, 1 Corinthians 15:25-28 Revelation 20:14.
May our discussion inspire study.
God bless,
RLW
One of my many favorite stories in the Word is where Paul is in Athens at Mar's Hill and preaches to them the fact that God is not far from any of us ( Acts 17:27), He's only a prayer away from the vilest sinner and that was me at one time. Thank you, Shabbat Keeper, for allowing me to correct myself, and blessings to you.
30And the times of this ignorance GOD winked at;but now commandeth all men every where to repent:
31Because He hath appointed a Day,in the which He will Judge the world in righteousness by that man whom He hath ordained; whereof He hath given assurance unto ALL men,in that He hath raised him from the dead.
Mat.28:18-And JESUS came and spake unto them,saying,All power is given unto me in heaven and in earth.
Luke 10:19-20
19Behold,I give unto you power to tread on serpents and scorpions,and over ALL the power of the enemy:and nothing shall by any means hurt you.
20Notwithstanding in this rejoice not,that the spirits are subject unto you;but rather rejoice,because your names are written in heaven.
Joel 2:1-11
1Blow the trumpet in Zion,sound an alarm in my holy mountain:let all the inhabitants of the land tremble:the Lord's Day comes...
2A Day of darkness and of gloominess,a Day of clouds and of thick darkness...a great people and a strong there has not been ever the like,neither shall be any more after it...
3A fire devoures before them;and behind them a flame burns:the land is as the garden of Eden before them,and behind them a desolate wilderness...
5Like the noise of chariots on the tops of mountains shall they leap, like the noise of a flame of fire that devoures the stubble,as a strong people set in battle array.
6Before their face the people shall be much pained...
7They shall run like mighty men;they shall climb the wall like men of war;and they shall march every one on his ways,and they shall not break their ranks:
8...and when they fall upon the sword,they shall not be wounded.
9They shall run to and fro in the city;they shall run upon the wall, they shall climb up upon the houses;they shall enter in at the windows like a thief.
10The earth shall quake before them...
11And the Lord shall utter His voice before His army:His camp is very great:He is strong that executes His Word:the Day of the Lord is great,very terrible;and who can abide it?
INVISIBLE; NO IMAGE; NO IMAGINATION OF MAN
Acts 17:29
states:
Being then God's offspring, we ought not to think that the divine being is like gold or silver or stone, an image formed by the art and imagination of man.
God has many warnings in scripture regarding not making idols of created beings or heavenly objects such as the moon and stars. This verse shows how God cannot be reduced to a man made concept or picture."
Would you not then agree that the concept of the trinity falls under such category as an "IMAGE and IMAGINATION OF MAN"?
If the concept is not taught anywhere in the Bible, that succinctly defines it as a creation/imagination of man.
The concept of God being three persons is an IDOL, it is an IMAGE created by the IMAGINATION OF MAN.
This IDOL has been sold to the masses, it has been delivered to hundreds of millions, if not billions, who accept and embrace it without question or personal investigation into its Scriptural authenticity.
It is a lie of man.
Acts 17:29 states:
Being then God's offspring, we ought not to think that the divine being is like gold or silver or stone, an image formed by the art and imagination of man.
God has many warnings in scripture regarding not making idols of created beings or heavenly objects such as the moon and stars. This verse shows how God cannot be reduced to a man made concept or picture.
Colossians 1:15 states: "He is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn of all creation." This verse is discussing Christ who although He came in a man is part of the Godhead; so certainly we shouldn't have images of Him either; especially to be venerated or worshipped. As to whether; say a stained glass window is equally offensive we have to look to the heart of those who are attending a church service; as sadly some even with such an object as that will find some feature that seems to have some supernatural light in the image which is idolotry. The same could be said for the Apostles on such imagery; a Protestant wouldn't have any desire normally to make it an idol; but other denominations such as Greek Orthodox have statues of "saints" which clearly constitute worship that is against scripture.
John 1:18 states that no man has ever seen God but in Christ we in a sense see Him. His attributes including the Godhead are said to be clear from creation ( Romans 1:20). This was said to be known from the time of Creation according to the beginning of this verse. This shows that only later the nations departed from the knowledge that Adam and his immediate descendants would have instilled in them; there was deliberate rebellion against the Creator throughout the earth; both after the garden and after the flood with the tower of Babel and then God confusing the languages and scattering men throughout the earth (see Genesis 10:25 on likely splitting off of continents and dispersion of men).
Is says earth, most cases referring to the ground we walk on. Did God divide the earth as in the continents or placed them in land already separated (continents) as they are today? Like the world, 5 Hebrew translations, 3 Greek. Earth though all refer to the ground, dirt, soil in all three translations.
1 Chronicles 1:19 - And unto Eber were born two sons: the name of the one was Peleg; because in his days the earth was divided: and his brother's name was Joktan.
Genesis 10:25
"And unto Eber were born two sons: the name of one was Peleg; for in his days was the earth divided; and his brother's name was Joktan."
Genesis 10:32 - These are the families of the sons of Noah, after their generations, in their nations: and by these were the nations divided in the earth after the flood.
Genesis 11:16-19 - And Eber lived four and thirty years, and begat Peleg:And Eber lived after he begat Peleg four hundred and thirty years, and begat sons and daughters.And Peleg lived thirty years, and begat Reu:And Peleg lived after he begat Reu two hundred and nine years, and begat sons and daughters.
Deuteronomy 32:8 - When the most High divided to the nations their inheritance, when he separated the sons of Adam, he set the bounds of the people according to the number of the children of Israel.
Luke 3:35-36 - Which was the son of Saruch, which was the son of Ragau, which was the son of Phalec, which was the son of Heber, which was the son of Sala,Which was the son of Cainan, which was the son of Arphaxad, which was the son of Sem, which was the son of Noe, which was the son of Lamech,
Acts 17:26 - And hath made of one blood all nations of men for to dwell on all the face of the earth, and hath determined the times before appointed, and the bounds of their habitation;
Just a question not to offend, just to inspire thought and study. Do you think when God placed Adam in the Garden of Eden and told Adam he could eat from every tree and fruit of the garden but one tree? God declared the end from the beginning do you think He did not know what Adam was going to do?
I am sorry, but on some subjects, I struggle to convey my understanding. To continue in sin and repentance is not what I was saying and not the way I am living. Daily repentance and obedience are not living in doubt the power of God's forgiveness. It is a daily lifestyle repentance is a way to progress in our sanctification a pattern of life to endure until the end we forsake sin daily not just one time.
It is through the repentance of all the sins we have done and the glory we give to God through the faith and obedience of Jesus Christ that we can be forgiven. Repentance is the foundation of our lives it is the beginning and the end of our life.
We can get slack, but we must every day test ourselves that we are walking in the Spirit and are striving to endure until the end and that starts with being obedient and repentant as we have been commanded to do, 1 John 1:9 Luke 13:3 Matt. 4:17 Acts 17:30. We will be absent from the presence of sin when we are glorified at our resurrection.
God bless,
RLW
Acts 17:11 (KJV) 11 These were more noble than those in Thessalonica, in that they received the word with all readiness of mind, and searched the scriptures daily, whether those things were so.
Like Ronald Reagon once said "trust, but verify!"
The scriptures have situations where God accomplishes His purposes despite the behaviors of His messengers or those fulfilling His will. We see Sampson; and his attraction to Philistine women which eventually degraded to being involved with Delilah; a prostitute that brought him shame and ruin ( Judges 16). God eventually used this to allow Sampson to be humbled through blindness then deliberately end his life and thus defeat more Philistines than he did all his life ( Judges 16:29).
We see Jonah and his deliberate disobedience in going to Tarshish rather than Nineveh. God somehow used his message to not only convince repentance from the top leadership to the common people in Nineveh; but also for those he was travelling with on the ship after they were forced to toss Jonah into the sea to save themselves from shipwreck.
Even the story of Esther is questionable from what some interpret happened in a Harem type situation; she also took over as wife of the king which would be considered adultery. It could still be considered as a second wife since divorce is NEVER mentioned in the Bible except Joseph's consideration of it with Mary. It was discussed as an action that could be taken in Deut. 24 but no saints of God or anyone else are mentioned even among pagans that did such a thing. Food for thought....
God would wink at certain things in the past but now of course we are at a higher standard under Christ. ( Acts 17:30). No doubt rewards were lost for those who weren't dealt with in this life if repentance didn't occur; we don't see specific chastising mentioning the particular sins of Sampson (perhaps implied in his death); and for Jonah there seems to be no indication that he ever had the love for the Ninevites at the end of the story; we only see God's rebuke for him feeling sorry for a plant instead.
In upcoming posts we will consider situations where right and wrong appear nebulous.
Well said brother, likewise reckon, we should think or consider and live a life as if we are dead to sin. Some take it as it is a one-time deal, and they are good to go. But is it conditional? If we are conditionally accepted there is something on our part, we must do to be accepted. Our faith, like Abraham, is that God is the only true God and He can and will reward us. We must choose to come to Him on His terms or continue in the ways of the world and if we do we will receive the gift of faith from God, His calling.
What must we do? We are all sinners in need of God's mercy, or our sins will remain, not forgiven, blotted out, or paid for unless we come to repentance as we are commanded to, Acts 17:30. If we obey we will enter His mercy, and our sins will be blotted out, Prov.28:13 Is. 55:7 1 John 1:9 Acts 3:19. Our past sins that separated us from God, Is. 59:1-2.
With repentance and confession, we are no longer separated from God, no longer under condemnation we enter justification, made right with God we enter the presence of the Lord, Acts 3:19. Baptized into Christ we begin a relationship through the Holy Spirit to all who obey and repent, Acts 2:38.
To remain in justification, we must continue to follow the lead He provides through the Holy Spirit, Rom. 8:1 Rom 8:12-14. While we remain in Justification and repentance Jesus continues to cover by His blood the penalty for sins we commit, 1 John 1:7.
Paul, we know was chosen by Jesus and he was filled with the Holy Spirit, but he said even he could be a castaway, 1 Cor. 9:25-27. Even with the seal of the earnest of the Holy Spirit, a downpayment is for what we are at that time, if we fall back, it can be forfeited if we are not willing to remain repentant. If we choose to walk by the flesh and not after the Spirit we return to condemnation and we will perish, John 15:6 the word IF, we will have to pay the penalty for sin ourselves, Rev. 21:8.
Just my understanding.
God bless,
RLW
I ended my last post briefly discussing the Persian; Greek and Roman empires which would all have a part of history when they affected Israel. In the Persian empire Cyrus the Great (see Ezra) would allow the Temple to be rebuilt even though he didn't know the Lord he showed favor to Israel. ( Isaiah 45:4-6). Later Antiochus Epiphanes as a type of Antichrist would during the intertestamental period take over the Temple (actually part of the Syrian empire but also spread Greek cultural ideas). God through the Macabees fought back and eventually they were defeated. Finally; of course the Roman empire would have a tenuous existance with the Jewish nation; and be a part of Christ's crucifixion. They also; (until today's modern version still forming) would be defeated.
We see examples of God working with Nebuchadnezzar to bring about true conversion. We also see examples such as Naaman the Syrian in 2 Kings 5 who God healed; as well as the story of Jonah with the Ninevites who repented and God spared for a time of judgment; but in the book of Nahum God's patience ran out and they were destroyed. We also see examples such as Ruth who was a Gentile that came to believe and became part of the royal lineage and even Rahab in the same light. In general though God winked at certain things in the past but ( Acts 17:30-31) but now in New Testament times there were stricter standards.
Christ would also begin with only ministering to the "lost sheep of Israel". ( Matthew 15:24 but mentioned earlier when the 70 were sent out). In this case a Gentile woman showed great faith and Christ healed her daughter. The plan now was to fulfill the prophecies in Isaiah 42:1-9 about being a light to the Gentiles. This began with Christ spending much time with the Samaritan woman and others possessed by demons which added to crowds from surrounding nations; and showed the lack of faith in his own hometown as a contrast ( Mark 6:4).
I agree with Gigi, We are to gather from those who are gifted to teach, preach, and proclaim.
Jesus said; He is truth!
He also said, "My sheep hear my voice!
When truth is proclaimed it's Christ spirit in us that discerns it.
In 1 Corinthians 3:5-7 Paul illustrates this concept of teaching.
We are to do as the Bereans in Acts 17:11 and test the scriptures to see if these things be true.
I believe we should approach the scripture as babes in Christ and not just examine others doctrine but also constantly examining our own, testing scripture with scripture and applying proper hermeneutics.
We take what we have learned from others and see if it holds up over time as we grow.
God bless.
And so, Timothy was considered Jewish. And in case some of the Hebrew and Jewish people would hear that he's Jewish as he's traveling and wanted to corner him and pin him down as to whether he's been circumcised, and whether he's been through the synagogue ceremonies, Paul had him circumcised so that he would be free to preach the gospel in the synagogues.
Timothy was ordained by Paul and the Presbytery ( I Timothy 4:14; II Timothy 1:6).
He accompanies Paul on his third missionary trip ( Acts 19:22; Acts 20:4; II Corinthians 1:1, 19).
Timothy ministered in at least five churches as Paul's representative. He sent Timothy to:
1) Thessalonica ( I Thessalonians 3:2, 6).
2) Corinth ( I Corinthians 4:17; 16:10; II Corinthians 1:19).
3) Philippi ( Philippians 2:19-23).
4) Berea ( Acts 17:14).
5) Ephesus ( I Timothy 1:3).
Timothy was with Paul during Paul's first imprisonment ( Philippians 1:1; Colossians 1:1; Philemon 1:1) and went to Philippi after Paul's release ( Philippians 2:19-23).
After Paul's release from his first imprisonment ( Acts 28:30), he revisited several cities leaving Timothy at Ephesus.
Paul went on to Macedonia from where he wrote Timothy this letter ( I Timothy 3:14-15).
Timothy was around 35-years of age when Paul wrote I Timothy.
Paul was arrested in Troas and taken to Rome and imprisoned for the second and last time.
Timothy also suffered imprisonment ( Hebrews 13:23).
Timothy ministered in at least 5 churches as Paul's representative:
1) Thessalonica ( I Thessalonians 3:2, 6)
2) Corinth ( I Corinthians 4:17; 16:10; II Corinthians 1:19)
3) Philippi ( Philippians 2:19-23)
4) Berea ( Acts 17:14)
5) Ephesus ( I Timothy 1:3)
So, here's somebody who spent 15-20 years with Paul all the time. He knew his teaching. He was able to live with him and watch his walk with the Lord, and he was sent out as Paul's representative to these different churches.
Timothy was with Paul during Paul's first imprisonment ( Philippians 1:1; Colossians 1:1; Philemon 1:1) and went to Philippi after Paul's release ( Philippians 2:19-23). After Paul's release from his first imprisonment ( Acts 28:30), he revisited several cities leaving Timothy at Ephesus.
Paul went to Macedonia where he wrote Timothy this letter ( I Timothy 3:14-15). Timothy was around 35-years old when Paul wrote I Timothy. Timothy also suffered imprisonment ( Hebrews 13:23).
IV. DATE OF THE LETTER:
Written around 62 - 63 A.D. between Paul's first and second imprisonment. Paul wrote both 1 Timothy and Titus during this time. Paul was arrested again sometime after 64 A.D. and condemned to death. July, 64 A.D was when Rome was burned by Nero and blamed on the Christians. So, from 64 A.D. onward, Christianity was an illegal religion.
That's why there was persecution all the way from 64 A.D. to 313 A.D. Christians were persecuted and put to death because Christianity was an illegal religion until Constantine decided to bring Christianity from the underground and make it a legal religion.
Christianity joined Constantine's sun worship religion, which is why we have a lot of the traditions we have in the church today. It hasn't come from the bible. It hasn't come from the Christian church in the first 300 years. It came from Constantine's false religious system.
Paul wrote this letter during his second imprisonment; he also wrote II Timothy.
We find in 2 Thessalonians that Paul's going to say that if anybody comes to you, whether it's through a spirit, making reference to somebody giving "personal revelation," by a spirit! Or whether it's through a letter, and 2 Thessalonians was written because a false letter was being circulated by false teachers that had Paul's name on it.
So, he says even if it's through a letter, or through a spirit, and it counters and contradicts what we're saying, it's false! Of course, how would the Christians in Thessalonica know that some of the things went against what Paul taught? And that's why he hurried and turned around and wrote a second letter to the Christians in Thessalonica.
I. ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Paul and his companions Silvanus and Timothy ( II Thessalonians 1:1; 3:17). Paul's inscription is on all thirteen of his letters.
II. TO WHOM IT WAS WRITTEN:
To the believers in Thessalonica who were made up of mostly Gentiles, but some Jews believed also (Acts17:4).
III. THE HISTORY OF THE CHURCH IN THESSALONICA:
Paul evangelized the area of Philippi, Thessalonica, and Berea during his Second Missionary journey along with Silvanus and Timothy ( Acts 17:1-9).
Paul ministered in Thessalonica for at least three weeks ( Acts 17:2).
Unbelieving Jews stirred up the unbelieving Gentiles against Paul ( Acts 17:5-9).
Paul, Silvanus, and Timothy left Thessalonica and went on to Berea ( Acts 17:10).
Hostile Thessalonian Jews followed Paul to Berea and stirred up the people against Paul ( Acts 17:13).
Paul left Silvanus and Timothy in Berea while he went on to Athens ( Acts 17:14).
Paul sent for Silvanus and Timothy to join him in Athens ( Acts 17:15).
From Athens, Paul sent Timothy back to Thessalonica to check on the welfare of the believers there ( I Thessalonians 3:1-2).
Paul also sent Silvanus back to Philippi while he went on to Corinth ( Acts 18:1).
Silvanus and Timothy rejoin Paul in Corinth ( Acts 18:5).
I. ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Paul and his companions Silvanus and Timothy ( I Thessalonians 1:1; 2:18). Again, Paul's inscription is on all thirteen of his letters. He personally wrote 1 Thessalonians, but he has Silvanus (and we see that he's the same as Silas in the scriptures), and then Timothy. They traveled with him during his 2nd missionary trip. And so, they are with Paul in Corinth when he is writing this letter back to the Christians in Thessalonica.
II. TO WHOM IT WAS WRITTEN:
To the believers in Thessalonica who were made up of mostly Gentiles, but some Jews believed also. Acts 17:4 tells us about Paul's ministry there in Thessalonica.
III. THE HISTORY OF THE CHURCH IN THESSALONICA:
Paul evangelized the area of Philippi, Thessalonica, and Berea during his Second Missionary journey, along with Silvanus and Timothy. That's recorded in Acts 17:1-9.
Paul ministered in Thessalonica for at least three weeks ( Acts 17:2).
Unbelieving Jews stirred up the unbelieving Gentiles against Paul ( Acts 17:5-9).
Paul, Silvanus, and Timothy left Thessalonica and went on to Berea ( Acts 17:10).
Hostile Thessalonian Jews followed Paul to Berea and stirred up the people against Paul ( Acts 17:13).
Paul left Silvanus and Timothy in Berea while he went on to Athens ( Acts 17:14).
Paul sent for Silvanus and Timothy to join him in Athens ( Acts 17:15).
From Athens, Paul sent Timothy back to Thessalonica to check on the welfare of the believers there ( I Thessalonians 3:1-2).
Paul also sent Silvanus back to Philippi while he went on to Corinth ( Acts 18:1).
Silvanus and Timothy rejoin Paul in Corinth ( Acts 18:5).
After Silvanus and Timothy returned, Paul wrote the first letter to the Thessalonians based on Timothy's good report ( Acts 18:5).
Godhead is a word that is in 3 verses in the KJV. Acts 17:29 Romans 1:20 and Colossians 2:9. Godhead comes from an Old English word godhede in 1200 AD. In Acts it is the Greek word theios that means divine, manifesting the characteristics of God's nature. In Romans, it is the Greek word theiots that means divinity, divine nature. In Colossians, it is the Greek word theots that mean deity, fulness of deity.
These are three different Greek words that the translators chose to translate Godhead. You ask is the Godhead one God or three persons? Some use this word to refer to the doctrine of the Trinity but in the context of the chapters this word is used, does not refer to that.
Godhead is God the Father himself, it pleased him to have all His divine fullness to dwell in His only begotten Son. The meaning for the word Godhead is the divine nature of God that was manifested in His only begotten Son, John 10:38 John 14:10.
Your question is more about the doctrine of the Trinity I am sure others would reply on that.
I hope this helps,
God bless,
RLW