Would like to add that the actions of the two in this scripture was about being deceptive by conspiring. Conspiring is when people secretly make joint plans to do something different than what is expected. In this case they conspired against the Holy Spirit which is in the church. I can only wonder the various things that could have motivated or prompted them to conspire, plot and scheme against "the Lord and His anointed." This is a good example of what a believer shouldn't do, however if a believer by chance discovers that they are in error, then God is available to forgive only for the asking or grant mercy according to His will.
"And kept back part of the price, his wife also being privy to it, and brought a certain part, and laid it at the apostles' feet." Acts 5:2 KJV
A believer should not allow anyone even their own spouse to cause them to miss out or sin against God, as the scripture reads further both received the same judgment, although they conspired together, the husband was judged then the wife was asked whether their dealings with the Apostles were true and being judged separately received the same judgment as her husband. Each one had an opportunity to be honest and they valued their relationship above their love for God. The same God who created them both and allowed them to have a spousal relationship in the first place (not that only God provided for them to have the field in their possession). They put their trust in their relationship, by obeying each other and not obeying God. A believer should God obey first in all things, whether married or unmarried and this scripture is an example of that and how careful a believer has to be in their human interactions with others. Not just husband and wife, which is the highest human form of a human relationship, all human relationships, whether Mother/Father, Siblings, neighbors, employers, friends, family relations, any human relationship that a believer has, God should always be honored and obeyed first. A believer shouldn't choose a path or make a decision that is contrary to God's way.
If only they had the courage to say they did not want to participate or only wanted to contribute a certain amount. I see a lot in the bible about the human condition of failure to communicate. In this case, failure to communicate perhaps could have been based on pride ("the pride of life'). Perhaps, they sincerely wanted to give, however, both seemingly wanted to control the situation by privately agreeing to do something separately from what was agreed upon. We also notice in the scripture that nothing is private, God knows all things.
"Does the bible support a women Pastor or Bishop. I know already that the bible supports women in ministering the word, just to clarify."
Based on the qualifications of a Bishop, I do not believe the bible supports a woman Bishop based on qualifications ("This is a true saying, If a man desire the office of a bishop, he desireth a good work." 1 Timothy 3:1 KJV), however a Pastor may not necessarily be a Bishop and therefore a woman can be a Pastor or called to be a Pastor, I believe. In this scripture when the bible states a man desiring the office, I believe it is for a male to be a Bishop and not a female, since the qualifications entail having a wife and a man exhibiting leadership over his family and household.
A women and wife can be two different categories, although a wife is a woman, a unmarried woman is not a wife and is not subject to any man, only to God. The bible indicates if a married woman wants to do anything that she should ask her husband, husbands and wives should be on one accord in righteouness.
The subject has been brought up as rather common knowledge that many in the world suffer much greater persecution than we do in America at least up until this point; that appears to be rapidly about to change seeing the events of the last few months in particular. Part of what I have covered is the production of spiritual fruit; and how God uses hardships and trials to do this. Whatever our external circumstances; those today who are sold out for Christ know what it is like to be rejected; as well as having the enemy put a target on them. Necessary labor of the Great Commission is still being performed by a few faithful souls today but in the Tribulation is going to be "on steroids" as it were. Acts 5:41 often seems to be in the dust or some remote place in our thoughts in regard to rejoicing to suffer for His Name's sake.
Those who suffer that we know in the Tribulation should it be soon will also rejoice. We may wish we could be here but it is to THEIR advantage for us to be removed; or else they would never grow. Once the Rapture happens; many will realize how empty their life truly was after the shock of realization of what went down. I believe that there will be prayers in heaven for those about to be martyred ( Rev. 8:3-4 is one example). The parable of the 10 virgins seems on the surface to show the 5 foolish ones are hopelessly lost. This could represent some who thought they were believers or were believers that grew cold in their faith. A lot depends whether the last statement means "I never knew you" or "I know you not" as a lack of current intimate relation; and outer darkness could be being on the earth in the Tribulation or a representation of final hell. That is something I may have already discussed but could elaborate on. It behooves us to never be presumptuous in our faith; thinking we are bona fide Christians if our hearts are far from Him. In conclusion a great final harvest is coming.
Is. 19:20 says that God will send a savior and defender. ad God identifies the Savior as the Holy One of Israel ( a name of God) in Is. 43:3. In 43:11 God says that apart from Him there is NO Savior. Also Hos. 13:4
God calls Himself Savior in Is. 45:21; 49:26; 60:16. Jesus is called the Savior of the world John 4:42; Acts 5:31; 13:23, 1 Tim. 4:10,
the Father sent the Son to as Savior ( 1 Jn. 4:14)
and Jude 1:25 says that Jesus our only God and Savior and He should be glorified and honored the SAME as the Father who is God ( Jn. 5:23) thus claiming equality with the Father. (also see Jn. 5:18; Jn. 10: 30-38; 8:58)
So, in light of these truths of Scripture, It is fact that God alone is our Savior, and the Father sent His Divine Son into the world to save sinners.
Hallelujah! Because every human that has ever lived needs to be saved from their sins, and Jesus, God the Son, is this Savior, and no mere man can save anyone.
The fear of the Lord. With my scripture memory still lacking I will cite the verse "The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom" and then ask the readers to discover how many times that is mentioned and perhaps do a further study on the subject. Today's sermon was from 1 Peter specifically in verse 17 discussing how as believers we should have fear that in general isn't with terror but at times if we have sin in our lives it probably some of that should shake us up. The story of Ananias and Sapphira was examined as to the reaction of the church afterwards and the Holy fear and terror invoked ( Acts 5:1-11).
It is easy for us to sit in our comfy place and read about destruction of whole cities or the future Tribulation and not have it speak to us. Some want to symbolize some of the literal statements of judgment; but I am not focusing on that. We can look at events in the far past and future as so remote from us that we don't sense the relevance; specifically it's prompting us to get busy spreading the Gospel and keep ourselves unspotted from the world. ( James 1:27). With so many trying to predict the time the Lord is coming back and put together all the puzzle pieces can ignore the many CONDITIONAL promises which are just as true. Specific behaviors good or bad bear certain fruits as well as resulting in blessing or cursing. I have seen this true in at least one case warning a person about continuing in certain behavior (in that case I believe it was followed by a mental breakdown). We can't be sure when we will reap what we sow; it is for sure in final judgment. This seems very cut and dry; for instance verses talking about the insanity of a foolish man committing adultery. Proverbs 22:14 brings the point out that men who follow God escape these traps but the wicked are caught in their own traps that they try to ensnare others ( Psalm 141:10 also found in Proverbs and no doubt other Psalms).
Romans 13:1-7. You've asked a valid question from v2 & there are two ways of understanding it: is disobedience to the laws of civil govt bring on God's damnation or the condemnation by the dispensers of those laws? In context of the chapter, I believe that this applies to the latter, that of judgement by the magistrate. The Greek word here is 'krima', which applies to 'a judgement, a verdict, a condemnation'. So for whatever reason Paul is thinking of, the one who disobeys the laws, will face the judge (who sits under the authority of God for the good of society). So, one is not damned by God in this regard, but will be condemned by civil law, & yet God would expect us to be obedient to such laws, unless they are in opposition to His Own ( Acts 5:28,29), to His Laws we are subject first.
Philippians 2:12,13. The apostle writing to the Church, commends them for obeying the Lord, not only when he was with them, but also when he wasn't there; this shows that they were genuine in their faith & not 'putting on appearances' for Paul's sake. So this wonderful salvation that they possessed can never be allowed to become mediocre & lukewarm, therefore Paul encourages them to 'work it out', i.e. what they possessed should be continually worked out (in one's personal walk & in relation to others), and done so 'in fear & trembling'. Why fear? I see it as the outworking of our Salvation which is a very serious business, not given to flippancy & a lackadaisical view, but geared to pleasing the Lord in all things & ever ready to engage in battle with the tempter & seducer. True, we have 'not been given a spirit of fear', of what man or spirit can do to us, even because of overwhelming circumstances we might face, but of Holy Ghost Power, of Divine Love, & of a sound healthy regenerated mind. I trust you can see the difference in 'Fear' in these instances.
The act of intercession; therefore is something crucial to communication throughout scripture that indeed gives us some insight of Hebrews 7:25 (He ever lives to intercede for us). Daniel also repeated this theme in Daniel 9:8-10. God's promise here was the prophetic insight given in Jeremiah 29:10. God stated this would happen; so it appears to be a done deal. There was no promise how many would do this; as is evident from the small group that initially rebuilt the wall; and the disobedience of many was seen with marriages to foreign wives. No doubt worldliness had affected the hearts of those who should have remembered the prosperity God gave them in Babylon and His promises to return after that time. It is a wonder that confession of the sins of church congregations isn't given much attention as compared to particulary egregious ones of individuals as it still affects the overall witness as we see from exhortations written for the churches in Revelation 2 and 3; for example.
Look at God's faithfulness to Israel as stated in Jeremiah 31:36 where the courses of nature would have to change with the sun and moon for God to abandon His covenant promises. In fact the only covenant changed is that related to the method of worship with the law and sacrifices which was of course replaced by the perfect sacrifice under Christ which abolished therefore the old ordinances. (see Hebrews 9-10). The object of worship was therefore Christ; God had stated in Isaiah 1:11; see also Psalm 69:31.
In understanding the New Covenant we should perceive that it is still the same God with the same characteristics today that existed in the Old Testament from eternity. We would on the surface expect that to be a "no brainer"; but how often do we see the fear of God demonstrated as in Acts 5:1-11 with Ananias and Sapphira? Our commitments to God should not be of fools ( Ecclesiastes 5:4). See Matthew 5:33-35 for ungodly vows.
To continue study of our Great God for the letter "P"
He is our Prince of Peace
Is. 9:6 " For unto us a child is born, unto us a Son is given: and the government shall be upon His shoulder: and His name shall be called Wonderful, Counselor, the Mighty God, the Everlasting Father, the Prince of Peace."
Acts 5:30-31 The God of our fathers raised up Jesus, whom ye slew and hanged on a tree. Him hath God exalted with His right hand to be a Prince and a Savior, for to give repentance to Israel, and forgiveness of sins."
Jesus is our Prince. He does not rule as earthly princes do, but is humble, though mighty, sacrificial for us, not greedy, with us, not stand offish.
He give peace to His people, as He did for Israel in the land under David and Solomon. Not only is Jesus the Prince of Peace but the eternal King of Kings also.
Ps. 29:10-11 "the LORD sitteth King forever, The Lord will give strength unto his people, the LORD will bless His people with peace."
Jn 14:27 "Peace I leave with you; My peace I give unto you; not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid."
Rom. 16:20 "And the God of peace will soon bruise Satan under your feet shortly."
He is our peace who has absolute power over the enemy and the Peace that unifies the church.
Eph. 2:14-15 "for He is our peace who hath made both one, and hath broken down the middle wall of partition between us." (between Jewish believers and Christian believers)
Hebrews 13:20-21 "Now may the God of Peace, that brought again from the dead our Lord Jesus, that great shepherd of the sheep, through the blood of the everlasting covenant, Make you perfect in every good work to do His will, working in you that which is well-pleasing in His sight, through Jesus Christ; to Whom be glory forever and ever, amen."
1 Th. 5:23 "And the very God of peace sanctify you wholly,"
The peace of God is transcend all other types of peace. It is above and beyond what we is of the world
I am glad to hear you had a great time over the holidays, I hope you were able to rest your heels of travel. Yes, it is the circumcision of the heart that the reformation begins, and the Holy Spirit inspires true worship. Worship is our response to what the Spirit reveals to us about God.
Romans 12:1-2 I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service. 2 And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.
We do this with our renewed minds led by the Spirit not with our wisdom and emotions, they can be deceived. Being deceived is to be easily caught up or carried away or taken out of the way, the favorite tool of Satan, like prey taken in the mouth of a lion.
1 Peter 5:8 Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour: If we are deceived, we are devoured. We must be vigilant daily to be conformed to the image of the Son of God, Jesus. Daily, as the Apostles did in the beginning, preaching the Gospel of Jesus every day, Acts 2:46-47Acts 5:42Acts 16:5.
Where do you get such gospel that santifcstion is a life long process? It does not exist in the bible. The bible says this.
John 17:17] Sanctify them through thy truth: thy word is truth.
The apostle Peter talked about once we have known the truth and turn away from it there is no more sacrifice for sin.
2nd Peter 2:20] For if after they have escaped the pollutions of the world through the knowledge of the Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ, they are again entangled therein, and overcome, the latter end is worse with them than the beginning.
[21] For it had been better for them not to have known the way of righteousness, than, after they have known it, to turn from the holy commandment delivered unto them.
[22] But it is happened unto them according to the true proverb, The dog is turned to his own vomit again; and the sow that was washed to her wallowing in the mire.
Obviously Peter was writing about people who were once santified. Acts chapter 5 Annians and Saphara two holy santified people who decided to do their own thing and obey a different voice, the voice of the devil as the man of God Peter knew who deceived them in not putting their share if the offerings as thry were supposed to.
Acts 5:3] But Peter said, Ananias, why hath Satan filled thine heart to lie to the Holy Ghost, and to keep back part of the price of the land?
[4] Whiles it remained, was it not thine own? and after it was sold, was it not in thine own power? why hast thou conceived this thing in thine heart? thou hast not lied unto men, but unto God.
[5] And Ananias hearing these words fell down, and gave up the ghost: and great fear came on all them that heard these things.
We became sanctified instantly the moment you accept Jesus Christ and his words from the Gospel of Christ.
Col 1:28] Whom we preach, warning every man, and teaching every man in all wisdom; that we may present every man perfect in Christ Jesus:
Jesus set me free from the bar business and I got baptized in Jesus name Acts 2:38,39
Luke 24:47,48Mark 16:16,17 I received the Holy Ghost Acts 5:32Acts 2:4. 1 Corinthians 14: 2,22,39
John 3:1-6Acts 19:1-6. 1 Peter 3:21Proverbs 11:30. John 21:15 it is essential for Salvation to be baptized in Jesus name Acts 4:12 and be filled with His Holy Ghost power speaking in a brand new tongue Acts 2:4 , and live a holy life loving Jesus and loving others !
4 If keeping the law made us sinless we wouldn't need Christ,,,,,,Christ came to fulfilled the law, & all those who follow Him in the regeneration fulfill the law too, by a higher law, the law of the Spirit of Life in Christ Jesus, which supersedes the law of the OT, through the Spirit of Grace which has appear to you, making you aware of your sins. He checks you in the provocations & temptations of this life & show you what not to do & what to do Titus 2:12 & if you'll obey, you'll sin not.
5Keeping rules doesn't give us the Spirit of Truth, this is a false statement, Acts 5:32Gal 3:2 believe that it is He who is within you speaking to you & if you will surrender to His guidance, little by little, you'll increase in His Spirit, until nothing will be impossible for you Philippians 4:13
Jema,
The very essences of the salvation that Jesus gave His life for is to bring us back to a life of obedience. Hebrews 5:9
Thy kingdom come, Thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven,
Disobedience makes this impossible or to become a child of God
A personal testimony
Correct me if I'm wrong, I've read that you love all type of worldly music, I was once there. Being a Christian & doing this does not go together, Just like watching tv, it glorifies all the works of the flesh of Gal 5 feeds the carnal part in man which is enmity against Godly part. I was having the same troubling problems your facing & God began opening me to why I was so easily captivated by the devil at his will. Our eyes & ears are the windows to our soul & spirit, I was feeding my self with sin & death, 1Cor 10:212Cor 6:14 I pick up the Cross to it, so that I may become pure in heart, The Blood of Jesus reaches to the cleansing of the conscience/heart from the evil one. But we must become obedient & pick up the cross to all things that would defile it. & so will all do, who God has inspired to live 24/7 for Christ.
It most definitely did, thank you so much.! How you explained the splinter/beam analogy was awesome. I had never heard it put that way, Amazing.! I knew about 1 Cor 2 yet obviously took it the wrong way and I will use this or yours, if I may, about being a 'fruit inspector'..lol. Yes, I've read we are to take any concern of wrong doing in an order by talking to said person (which rarely works) 1st then to the church. I learned Proverbs 25:8-9 first hand that "If you take your neighbor to court, do not betray another's confidence, 10 or the one who hears it may shame you & the charge against you will stand". Because my daughters dad twisted everything. So now I can say first hand why Acts 5:29 says "We must obey God not man". The pain is far worse doing it mans way. I think it was 1 Cor 4:4 that gave me the idea we had the right to judge spiritually so obviously learned it wrong as well. Your a blessing, thank you Jesse. Was fixen to get back on here yet getting a job 3rd shift so may not. God bless & be w/you and yours.!
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.
Six things determined upon Daniel's people and the holy city.
Part 3
To make an end of sins.
To make an end; as put an end to/make an end to, affix a seal, to seal up, a document is rolled up and sealed with wet clay. The signet ring of the owner bears the image of his seal and is pressed into the clay. This is what was done by the Holy Spirit, 2 Cor. 1:22Eph. 1:132 Tim. 2:19.
Whosoever committeth sin transgresseth the law: for sin is the transgression of the law. Sin reaches for things, such as safety, knowledge, peace, happiness, and pleasure. Nevertheless, behind the act of good, sin ultimately creates a confrontation between obedience and rebellion. If not in faith, it is sin.
The covering of our sins was accomplished on the cross at Calvary. When he said IT IS FINISHED, he provided us with the garments (wedding garments) to cover our sins. Sin has not completely stopped yet but it is covered by the blood of Jesus and sealed by the Holy Spirit.
This passage points toward the Messiah who died because of our sins. In Jesus's death, punishment for our sins is paid for. Jesus's death we are dead to sin. Walking in the Spirit meant that we are trusting in Christ by faith to be made right before God, and not trusting in the law.
Whenever Paul speaks about walking after the flesh, it is in the context of trying to be made right before God by the law, which is equivalent to self-righteousness. I believe the prophecy is fulfilled in Jesus Christ and if we are in Jesus Christ, it is fulfilled for us. Praise God that Jesus Christ made an end of sins! As Jesus said from the cross, "It is finished!"
Jesus knew what was going to happen and much of what He told the disciples was what was going to happen to them, to prepare them for what He just told them when the temple would be destroyed. Does part of this discourse apply to the future? Yes
Matt. 24:5-13 History and the Bible document that there were several men as false Messiahs, false prophets that deceived many and which convinced many and led them to revolt to liberate Jerusalem from Roman occupation. Josephus tells us that impostors drew great multitudes after them into the wilderness, and he mentions an Egyptian prophet. We see this in Acts 21:36-38.
We have Theudas in Acts 5:36 and Judas of Galilee in Acts 5:37-8 and Simon in Acts 8:9-11, and there was more. For us today many come in the name of Jesus saying, Jesus is Christ, but they deceive and make merchandise of people. We must not ignore the first thing He said after they asked Him "Take heed that no man deceive you."
There were many conflicts between the nations around Jerusalem and Rome was having wars that caused famine. Claudius invaded Britain in 46AD, there was a great famine in Syria. Rome took control over the temple along with the sacred treasury and there was a great famine in Jerusalem.
The Jews were having small scrimmages that led to the revolt in 66 AD. We see in the bible a famine was going on, in Acts 11:27-29 in 1 Corinthians 16:1-3 Where Paul was collecting things for those in Jerusalem because they were starving. There were earthquakes in Rome, Pergamum, Laodicea, and Judea in the 50s and 60s.
We see what the Jews did to Peter and John and the first they killed was Steven and then most of them. and what Paul says about what they did in all the synagogues Acts 26:10-11. But enduring to the end the same shall be saved does not mean their flesh life would be saved.
Philadelphia is written in "The Book of the Revelations of Jahshua the Messiah".
Rev 3:7
And to the angel of the church in Philadelphia write; These things saith he that is holy, he that is true, he that hath the key of David, he that openeth, and no man shutteth; and shutteth, and no man openeth;
8I know thy works: behold, I have set before thee an open door, and no man can shut it: for thou hast a little strength, and hast kept my word, and hast not denied my name.9Behold, I will make them of the synagogue of Satan, which say they are Jews, and are not, but do lie; behold, I will make them to come and worship before thy feet, and to know that I have loved thee.10Because thou hast kept the word of my patience, I also will keep thee from the hour of temptation, which shall come upon all the world, to try them that dwell upon the earth.11Behold, I come quickly: hold that fast which thou hast, that no man take thy crown.12Him that overcometh will I make a pillar in the temple of my God, and he shall go no more out: and I will write upon him the name of my God, and the name of the city of my God,which isnew Jerusalem, which cometh down out of heaven from my God: andI will write upon himmy new name.13He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches.
The city of Philadelphia was in Asia Minor and controlled by Rome, it is today in Turkey a town called Ataehir the "city of Allah.". You can find what Jesus said to them in the letter sent to them in Rev.3:7-13. This city was almost destroyed in an earthquake in early AD. It was also a stronghold for Christianity when the Moslems overran Asia Minor it was one of the last to fall.
The attributes of God. While the scriptures teach that God's people are to progressively become more Godlike in character, they do not teach that they will or can become God in the essential traits and elements which constitute deity. God is self-existent ( Jn. 5: 26), enjoys eternality ( Rom. 1: 20), has unlimited power ( Matt. 19: 26), infinite knowledge ( Acts 2: 23, 15: 18), absolute holiness, and truthfulness ( I Jn. 1: 5, Heb. 6: 18). Moreover, God has creative power ( Rom. 11: 36). To teach graduated Godhead, there must of necessity be the attendant teaching of polytheism or many gods. Again, we quote Joseph Smith:
"Hence, the doctrine of a plurality of Gods is as prominent in the Bible as any other doctrine. It is all over the face of the Bible . . . Paul says there are Gods many and Lords many . . . but to us there is but one God--that is pertaining to us; and he is in all and through all" (History of the Church, Vol. 6, page 474). "In the beginning, the head of the Gods called a council of the Gods; and they came together and concocted a plan to create the world and people it." (Journal of Discourses, Vol. 6, p. 5).
Beloved, the scriptures teach and affirm there is only one God ( Deut. 4: 35-39). The state of Godhead, being God, consists of the Father, Son, and the Holy Spirit ( Rom. 1: 7, Heb. 1: 8, Acts 5: 4, 5). God declared: "that ye may know and believe me, and understand that I am he: before me there was no God formed, neither shall there be after me" ( Isa. 43: 10). Before God, there was no God. After God there shall be no God formed. Hence, man cannot so develop and graduate as to become God himself.
AGAIN!
Ye are my witnesses, saith the LORD, and my servant whom I have chosen: that ye may know and believe me and understand that I am he: before me there was no God formed, NEITHER SHALL THERE BE AFTER ME.
I would be remiss here if I didn't include financial decisions in this discussion. When we consider the egregious debts that I am certain many professing believers have saddled themselves with it saddens me to think of how our "rugged individualism" in the USA has seemingly made asking advice on such matters something that doesn't come across the radar of many who otherwise may be involved in the church. Again; I speak from experience when much of the inheritance from my deceased grandmother was spent on frivolous vacations and other things in my early years of marriage. Needless to say such a stressor wasn't helpful in my situation and also is a major source of contention in many marriages.
Most churches have others who can give us wise counsel on that subject; and in fact usually there are more than one person who can help us out skilled as carpenters or laborers who we can bless in doing work for our homes by payment for their services; and who often are willing to give us a break in the bill. It does seem that there are times especially in large churches where those in need the most for a small financial assistance are drowned out effectively by whatever cause is the biggest selling point of interest.
It would be nice to see a church such as the one in the Book of Acts who would sell things when needed so that no one lacked anything ( Acts 4:34). This was a church; of course in its infancy and just after the dramatic Pentecost experience and the 1st Century persecution just starting to ramp up. We should consider as God's people not having to borrow under usery.
Deuteronomy 23 and Psalm 15:5 mention that it applies to us lending to others expecting interest in return as well as being prohibited. In the early church; of course we had a healthy fear of God so that the event with Ananias and Saphira occured ( Acts 5:1-11). Lord willing we can find resources for our needs in our local Body or others of faith.
Matthew 6, Luke 4:40, Matthew 12:15, Luke 6:19, Psalms 139, Psalms 107:20, Matthew 15:30, Luke 9:11, Matthew 4:24, Matthew 14:14, Mark 6:13, Acts 5:6, Acts 14:9, Matthew 10:8, Mark 16:17,18, John 16:23, Luke 11:9-11, context Luke 11:2-13, James 5:13-20,
Hopefully these are helpful & encouraging & healing to you, that you likewise will help others Matthew 10:8,
Hi Texsis. I think D J Grim might be referring to Acts 5:30; Acts 10:39; Acts 13:29. And this is understood as the Cross, the stake bringing death that was once fashioned from a tree.
Ephesians 1:13-14 states that we are sealed withe Spirit unto the day of redemption. Notwithstanding this; it is not a mere verbal statement that assures salvation. Therefore to those TRULY born again; indeed they are saved in a "once saved always saved" way. We all have as evidence of genuine faith a need to REPENT (turn from sin); but God actually GIVES us the desire to repent through the GIFT of repentance ( Acts 5:31; etal). It is more doctrinally sound to say that GOD elects or chooses those who will become adopted sons or inherited into the Kingdom ( Colossians 1:13; Romans 8:22-23). We must confess with our mouths; of course but that comes along with belief in the heart ( Romans 10:9). Those who are saved because they LOVE God they keep His commandments ( John 14:15). Those who are saved will bear fruit ( John 15:2). The surrounding scriptures and parable of the sower show that a person must pass through the temptations of the world and be proven to be true sons ( Hebrews 12:8). Those who are true believers are chastised as He does with all those He loves. The fruit of the Spirit eventually manifests; and God continues to prune (or sanctify) us to produce MORE fruit. The others fall away eventually to the world; flesh and devil; only God can save us from ourselves and these forces which are blinding those who don't know the Lord ( 2 Cor. 4:4).
The 10 Commandments therefore are still in force today; but we are unable to follow with the MORE stringent matters of the heart which only again comes from the Spirit. Without this there is an outward obedience only. The only thing which has changed is the Sabbath Day; and I would say that Matthew 12:8 answers this by placing Sunday as the day of rest. This is also the only command that was peculiar to the nation of Israel; rather than universal law which clearly as shown with John the Baptist in matters of divorce holding for pagans as well. Other ceremonial rules changed with Peter's vision in Acts 10.
A believer should not allow anyone even their own spouse to cause them to miss out or sin against God, as the scripture reads further both received the same judgment, although they conspired together, the husband was judged then the wife was asked whether their dealings with the Apostles were true and being judged separately received the same judgment as her husband. Each one had an opportunity to be honest and they valued their relationship above their love for God. The same God who created them both and allowed them to have a spousal relationship in the first place (not that only God provided for them to have the field in their possession). They put their trust in their relationship, by obeying each other and not obeying God. A believer should God obey first in all things, whether married or unmarried and this scripture is an example of that and how careful a believer has to be in their human interactions with others. Not just husband and wife, which is the highest human form of a human relationship, all human relationships, whether Mother/Father, Siblings, neighbors, employers, friends, family relations, any human relationship that a believer has, God should always be honored and obeyed first. A believer shouldn't choose a path or make a decision that is contrary to God's way.
If only they had the courage to say they did not want to participate or only wanted to contribute a certain amount. I see a lot in the bible about the human condition of failure to communicate. In this case, failure to communicate perhaps could have been based on pride ("the pride of life'). Perhaps, they sincerely wanted to give, however, both seemingly wanted to control the situation by privately agreeing to do something separately from what was agreed upon. We also notice in the scripture that nothing is private, God knows all things.
"Does the bible support a women Pastor or Bishop. I know already that the bible supports women in ministering the word, just to clarify."
Based on the qualifications of a Bishop, I do not believe the bible supports a woman Bishop based on qualifications ("This is a true saying, If a man desire the office of a bishop, he desireth a good work." 1 Timothy 3:1 KJV), however a Pastor may not necessarily be a Bishop and therefore a woman can be a Pastor or called to be a Pastor, I believe. In this scripture when the bible states a man desiring the office, I believe it is for a male to be a Bishop and not a female, since the qualifications entail having a wife and a man exhibiting leadership over his family and household.
A women and wife can be two different categories, although a wife is a woman, a unmarried woman is not a wife and is not subject to any man, only to God. The bible indicates if a married woman wants to do anything that she should ask her husband, husbands and wives should be on one accord in righteouness.
The subject has been brought up as rather common knowledge that many in the world suffer much greater persecution than we do in America at least up until this point; that appears to be rapidly about to change seeing the events of the last few months in particular. Part of what I have covered is the production of spiritual fruit; and how God uses hardships and trials to do this. Whatever our external circumstances; those today who are sold out for Christ know what it is like to be rejected; as well as having the enemy put a target on them. Necessary labor of the Great Commission is still being performed by a few faithful souls today but in the Tribulation is going to be "on steroids" as it were. Acts 5:41 often seems to be in the dust or some remote place in our thoughts in regard to rejoicing to suffer for His Name's sake.
Those who suffer that we know in the Tribulation should it be soon will also rejoice. We may wish we could be here but it is to THEIR advantage for us to be removed; or else they would never grow. Once the Rapture happens; many will realize how empty their life truly was after the shock of realization of what went down. I believe that there will be prayers in heaven for those about to be martyred ( Rev. 8:3-4 is one example). The parable of the 10 virgins seems on the surface to show the 5 foolish ones are hopelessly lost. This could represent some who thought they were believers or were believers that grew cold in their faith. A lot depends whether the last statement means "I never knew you" or "I know you not" as a lack of current intimate relation; and outer darkness could be being on the earth in the Tribulation or a representation of final hell. That is something I may have already discussed but could elaborate on. It behooves us to never be presumptuous in our faith; thinking we are bona fide Christians if our hearts are far from Him. In conclusion a great final harvest is coming.
God alone is the Savior of men.
Is. 19:20 says that God will send a savior and defender. ad God identifies the Savior as the Holy One of Israel ( a name of God) in Is. 43:3. In 43:11 God says that apart from Him there is NO Savior. Also Hos. 13:4
God calls Himself Savior in Is. 45:21; 49:26; 60:16. Jesus is called the Savior of the world John 4:42; Acts 5:31; 13:23, 1 Tim. 4:10,
the Father sent the Son to as Savior ( 1 Jn. 4:14)
and Jude 1:25 says that Jesus our only God and Savior and He should be glorified and honored the SAME as the Father who is God ( Jn. 5:23) thus claiming equality with the Father. (also see Jn. 5:18; Jn. 10: 30-38; 8:58)
So, in light of these truths of Scripture, It is fact that God alone is our Savior, and the Father sent His Divine Son into the world to save sinners.
Hallelujah! Because every human that has ever lived needs to be saved from their sins, and Jesus, God the Son, is this Savior, and no mere man can save anyone.
The fear of the Lord. With my scripture memory still lacking I will cite the verse "The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom" and then ask the readers to discover how many times that is mentioned and perhaps do a further study on the subject. Today's sermon was from 1 Peter specifically in verse 17 discussing how as believers we should have fear that in general isn't with terror but at times if we have sin in our lives it probably some of that should shake us up. The story of Ananias and Sapphira was examined as to the reaction of the church afterwards and the Holy fear and terror invoked ( Acts 5:1-11).
It is easy for us to sit in our comfy place and read about destruction of whole cities or the future Tribulation and not have it speak to us. Some want to symbolize some of the literal statements of judgment; but I am not focusing on that. We can look at events in the far past and future as so remote from us that we don't sense the relevance; specifically it's prompting us to get busy spreading the Gospel and keep ourselves unspotted from the world. ( James 1:27). With so many trying to predict the time the Lord is coming back and put together all the puzzle pieces can ignore the many CONDITIONAL promises which are just as true. Specific behaviors good or bad bear certain fruits as well as resulting in blessing or cursing. I have seen this true in at least one case warning a person about continuing in certain behavior (in that case I believe it was followed by a mental breakdown). We can't be sure when we will reap what we sow; it is for sure in final judgment. This seems very cut and dry; for instance verses talking about the insanity of a foolish man committing adultery. Proverbs 22:14 brings the point out that men who follow God escape these traps but the wicked are caught in their own traps that they try to ensnare others ( Psalm 141:10 also found in Proverbs and no doubt other Psalms).
More in part 4
Romans 13:1-7. You've asked a valid question from v2 & there are two ways of understanding it: is disobedience to the laws of civil govt bring on God's damnation or the condemnation by the dispensers of those laws? In context of the chapter, I believe that this applies to the latter, that of judgement by the magistrate. The Greek word here is 'krima', which applies to 'a judgement, a verdict, a condemnation'. So for whatever reason Paul is thinking of, the one who disobeys the laws, will face the judge (who sits under the authority of God for the good of society). So, one is not damned by God in this regard, but will be condemned by civil law, & yet God would expect us to be obedient to such laws, unless they are in opposition to His Own ( Acts 5:28,29), to His Laws we are subject first.
Philippians 2:12,13. The apostle writing to the Church, commends them for obeying the Lord, not only when he was with them, but also when he wasn't there; this shows that they were genuine in their faith & not 'putting on appearances' for Paul's sake. So this wonderful salvation that they possessed can never be allowed to become mediocre & lukewarm, therefore Paul encourages them to 'work it out', i.e. what they possessed should be continually worked out (in one's personal walk & in relation to others), and done so 'in fear & trembling'. Why fear? I see it as the outworking of our Salvation which is a very serious business, not given to flippancy & a lackadaisical view, but geared to pleasing the Lord in all things & ever ready to engage in battle with the tempter & seducer. True, we have 'not been given a spirit of fear', of what man or spirit can do to us, even because of overwhelming circumstances we might face, but of Holy Ghost Power, of Divine Love, & of a sound healthy regenerated mind. I trust you can see the difference in 'Fear' in these instances.
The act of intercession; therefore is something crucial to communication throughout scripture that indeed gives us some insight of Hebrews 7:25 (He ever lives to intercede for us). Daniel also repeated this theme in Daniel 9:8-10. God's promise here was the prophetic insight given in Jeremiah 29:10. God stated this would happen; so it appears to be a done deal. There was no promise how many would do this; as is evident from the small group that initially rebuilt the wall; and the disobedience of many was seen with marriages to foreign wives. No doubt worldliness had affected the hearts of those who should have remembered the prosperity God gave them in Babylon and His promises to return after that time. It is a wonder that confession of the sins of church congregations isn't given much attention as compared to particulary egregious ones of individuals as it still affects the overall witness as we see from exhortations written for the churches in Revelation 2 and 3; for example.
Look at God's faithfulness to Israel as stated in Jeremiah 31:36 where the courses of nature would have to change with the sun and moon for God to abandon His covenant promises. In fact the only covenant changed is that related to the method of worship with the law and sacrifices which was of course replaced by the perfect sacrifice under Christ which abolished therefore the old ordinances. (see Hebrews 9-10). The object of worship was therefore Christ; God had stated in Isaiah 1:11; see also Psalm 69:31.
In understanding the New Covenant we should perceive that it is still the same God with the same characteristics today that existed in the Old Testament from eternity. We would on the surface expect that to be a "no brainer"; but how often do we see the fear of God demonstrated as in Acts 5:1-11 with Ananias and Sapphira? Our commitments to God should not be of fools ( Ecclesiastes 5:4). See Matthew 5:33-35 for ungodly vows.
He is our Prince of Peace
Is. 9:6 " For unto us a child is born, unto us a Son is given: and the government shall be upon His shoulder: and His name shall be called Wonderful, Counselor, the Mighty God, the Everlasting Father, the Prince of Peace."
Acts 5:30-31 The God of our fathers raised up Jesus, whom ye slew and hanged on a tree. Him hath God exalted with His right hand to be a Prince and a Savior, for to give repentance to Israel, and forgiveness of sins."
Jesus is our Prince. He does not rule as earthly princes do, but is humble, though mighty, sacrificial for us, not greedy, with us, not stand offish.
He give peace to His people, as He did for Israel in the land under David and Solomon. Not only is Jesus the Prince of Peace but the eternal King of Kings also.
Ps. 29:10-11 "the LORD sitteth King forever, The Lord will give strength unto his people, the LORD will bless His people with peace."
Jn 14:27 "Peace I leave with you; My peace I give unto you; not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid."
Rom. 16:20 "And the God of peace will soon bruise Satan under your feet shortly."
He is our peace who has absolute power over the enemy and the Peace that unifies the church.
Eph. 2:14-15 "for He is our peace who hath made both one, and hath broken down the middle wall of partition between us." (between Jewish believers and Christian believers)
Hebrews 13:20-21 "Now may the God of Peace, that brought again from the dead our Lord Jesus, that great shepherd of the sheep, through the blood of the everlasting covenant, Make you perfect in every good work to do His will, working in you that which is well-pleasing in His sight, through Jesus Christ; to Whom be glory forever and ever, amen."
1 Th. 5:23 "And the very God of peace sanctify you wholly,"
The peace of God is transcend all other types of peace. It is above and beyond what we is of the world
I am glad to hear you had a great time over the holidays, I hope you were able to rest your heels of travel. Yes, it is the circumcision of the heart that the reformation begins, and the Holy Spirit inspires true worship. Worship is our response to what the Spirit reveals to us about God.
Romans 12:1-2 I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service. 2 And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.
We do this with our renewed minds led by the Spirit not with our wisdom and emotions, they can be deceived. Being deceived is to be easily caught up or carried away or taken out of the way, the favorite tool of Satan, like prey taken in the mouth of a lion.
1 Peter 5:8 Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour: If we are deceived, we are devoured. We must be vigilant daily to be conformed to the image of the Son of God, Jesus. Daily, as the Apostles did in the beginning, preaching the Gospel of Jesus every day, Acts 2:46-47 Acts 5:42 Acts 16:5.
God bless,
RLW
John 17:17] Sanctify them through thy truth: thy word is truth.
The apostle Peter talked about once we have known the truth and turn away from it there is no more sacrifice for sin.
2nd Peter 2:20] For if after they have escaped the pollutions of the world through the knowledge of the Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ, they are again entangled therein, and overcome, the latter end is worse with them than the beginning.
[21] For it had been better for them not to have known the way of righteousness, than, after they have known it, to turn from the holy commandment delivered unto them.
[22] But it is happened unto them according to the true proverb, The dog is turned to his own vomit again; and the sow that was washed to her wallowing in the mire.
Obviously Peter was writing about people who were once santified. Acts chapter 5 Annians and Saphara two holy santified people who decided to do their own thing and obey a different voice, the voice of the devil as the man of God Peter knew who deceived them in not putting their share if the offerings as thry were supposed to.
Acts 5:3] But Peter said, Ananias, why hath Satan filled thine heart to lie to the Holy Ghost, and to keep back part of the price of the land?
[4] Whiles it remained, was it not thine own? and after it was sold, was it not in thine own power? why hast thou conceived this thing in thine heart? thou hast not lied unto men, but unto God.
[5] And Ananias hearing these words fell down, and gave up the ghost: and great fear came on all them that heard these things.
We became sanctified instantly the moment you accept Jesus Christ and his words from the Gospel of Christ.
Col 1:28] Whom we preach, warning every man, and teaching every man in all wisdom; that we may present every man perfect in Christ Jesus:
Luke 24:47,48 Mark 16:16,17 I received the Holy Ghost Acts 5:32 Acts 2:4. 1 Corinthians 14: 2,22,39
John 3:1-6 Acts 19:1-6. 1 Peter 3:21 Proverbs 11:30. John 21:15 it is essential for Salvation to be baptized in Jesus name Acts 4:12 and be filled with His Holy Ghost power speaking in a brand new tongue Acts 2:4 , and live a holy life loving Jesus and loving others !
Luke 24:47,48 Jesus said!
Mark 16:16,17 Jesus said!
Acts 2:38,39 Peter preached what Jesus said!
Acts 4:12 No other name!
John 3:1-6 Must be born again of the water & Spirit!
1 Peter 3:21 Baptism saves us!
Acts 10:44-48 Can't be good enough without Jesus!
Acts 8:1-6 Ethiopian Eunic gets baptized in Jesus name and starts a 2000 plus year revival still going on today !
Acts 19:1-6 have you received the Holy Ghost since you been a believer?
Acts 5:32 gotta obey Him!
1 Corinthians 14:2,22,39 tongues are for a sign!
Acts 2:4 The Spirit gives the utterance!
Acts 1:8 Receive power !
John 21:15 Jesus loves you dearly!!!!!!!
4 If keeping the law made us sinless we wouldn't need Christ,,,,,,Christ came to fulfilled the law, & all those who follow Him in the regeneration fulfill the law too, by a higher law, the law of the Spirit of Life in Christ Jesus, which supersedes the law of the OT, through the Spirit of Grace which has appear to you, making you aware of your sins. He checks you in the provocations & temptations of this life & show you what not to do & what to do Titus 2:12 & if you'll obey, you'll sin not.
5Keeping rules doesn't give us the Spirit of Truth, this is a false statement, Acts 5:32 Gal 3:2 believe that it is He who is within you speaking to you & if you will surrender to His guidance, little by little, you'll increase in His Spirit, until nothing will be impossible for you Philippians 4:13
Jema,
The very essences of the salvation that Jesus gave His life for is to bring us back to a life of obedience. Hebrews 5:9
Thy kingdom come, Thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven,
Disobedience makes this impossible or to become a child of God
A personal testimony
Correct me if I'm wrong, I've read that you love all type of worldly music, I was once there. Being a Christian & doing this does not go together, Just like watching tv, it glorifies all the works of the flesh of Gal 5 feeds the carnal part in man which is enmity against Godly part. I was having the same troubling problems your facing & God began opening me to why I was so easily captivated by the devil at his will. Our eyes & ears are the windows to our soul & spirit, I was feeding my self with sin & death, 1Cor 10:21 2Cor 6:14 I pick up the Cross to it, so that I may become pure in heart, The Blood of Jesus reaches to the cleansing of the conscience/heart from the evil one. But we must become obedient & pick up the cross to all things that would defile it. & so will all do, who God has inspired to live 24/7 for Christ.
Remember; where He invites, He empowers.
In love & 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.
Part 3
To make an end of sins.
To make an end; as put an end to/make an end to, affix a seal, to seal up, a document is rolled up and sealed with wet clay. The signet ring of the owner bears the image of his seal and is pressed into the clay. This is what was done by the Holy Spirit, 2 Cor. 1:22 Eph. 1:13 2 Tim. 2:19.
Whosoever committeth sin transgresseth the law: for sin is the transgression of the law. Sin reaches for things, such as safety, knowledge, peace, happiness, and pleasure. Nevertheless, behind the act of good, sin ultimately creates a confrontation between obedience and rebellion. If not in faith, it is sin.
Psalm 32:1 Matthew 1:21 Matthew 22:11-13 John 1:29 John 3:5 Acts 5:31 Romans 3:25 Romans 8:3 Hebrews 9:26 Hebrews 10:8-12 1 Corinthians 15:3 1 John 3:5-6 Revelation 16:15
The covering of our sins was accomplished on the cross at Calvary. When he said IT IS FINISHED, he provided us with the garments (wedding garments) to cover our sins. Sin has not completely stopped yet but it is covered by the blood of Jesus and sealed by the Holy Spirit.
This passage points toward the Messiah who died because of our sins. In Jesus's death, punishment for our sins is paid for. Jesus's death we are dead to sin. Walking in the Spirit meant that we are trusting in Christ by faith to be made right before God, and not trusting in the law.
Whenever Paul speaks about walking after the flesh, it is in the context of trying to be made right before God by the law, which is equivalent to self-righteousness. I believe the prophecy is fulfilled in Jesus Christ and if we are in Jesus Christ, it is fulfilled for us. Praise God that Jesus Christ made an end of sins! As Jesus said from the cross, "It is finished!"
See Part 4
On part 1
Jesus knew what was going to happen and much of what He told the disciples was what was going to happen to them, to prepare them for what He just told them when the temple would be destroyed. Does part of this discourse apply to the future? Yes
Matt. 24:5-13 History and the Bible document that there were several men as false Messiahs, false prophets that deceived many and which convinced many and led them to revolt to liberate Jerusalem from Roman occupation. Josephus tells us that impostors drew great multitudes after them into the wilderness, and he mentions an Egyptian prophet. We see this in Acts 21:36-38.
We have Theudas in Acts 5:36 and Judas of Galilee in Acts 5:37-8 and Simon in Acts 8:9-11, and there was more. For us today many come in the name of Jesus saying, Jesus is Christ, but they deceive and make merchandise of people. We must not ignore the first thing He said after they asked Him "Take heed that no man deceive you."
There were many conflicts between the nations around Jerusalem and Rome was having wars that caused famine. Claudius invaded Britain in 46AD, there was a great famine in Syria. Rome took control over the temple along with the sacred treasury and there was a great famine in Jerusalem.
The Jews were having small scrimmages that led to the revolt in 66 AD. We see in the bible a famine was going on, in Acts 11:27-29 in 1 Corinthians 16:1-3 Where Paul was collecting things for those in Jerusalem because they were starving. There were earthquakes in Rome, Pergamum, Laodicea, and Judea in the 50s and 60s.
We see what the Jews did to Peter and John and the first they killed was Steven and then most of them. and what Paul says about what they did in all the synagogues Acts 26:10-11. But enduring to the end the same shall be saved does not mean their flesh life would be saved.
Will cover more, hope I am making sense.
God bless,
RLW
Rev 3:7
And to the angel of the church in Philadelphia write; These things saith he that is holy, he that is true, he that hath the key of David, he that openeth, and no man shutteth; and shutteth, and no man openeth;
8I know thy works: behold, I have set before thee an open door, and no man can shut it: for thou hast a little strength, and hast kept my word, and hast not denied my name.9Behold, I will make them of the synagogue of Satan, which say they are Jews, and are not, but do lie; behold, I will make them to come and worship before thy feet, and to know that I have loved thee.10Because thou hast kept the word of my patience, I also will keep thee from the hour of temptation, which shall come upon all the world, to try them that dwell upon the earth.11Behold, I come quickly: hold that fast which thou hast, that no man take thy crown.12Him that overcometh will I make a pillar in the temple of my God, and he shall go no more out: and I will write upon him the name of my God, and the name of the city of my God,which isnew Jerusalem, which cometh down out of heaven from my God: andI will write upon himmy new name.13He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches.
The city of Philadelphia was in Asia Minor and controlled by Rome, it is today in Turkey a town called Ataehir the "city of Allah.". You can find what Jesus said to them in the letter sent to them in Rev.3:7-13. This city was almost destroyed in an earthquake in early AD. It was also a stronghold for Christianity when the Moslems overran Asia Minor it was one of the last to fall.
God bless,
RLW
Part 2 and final.
The attributes of God. While the scriptures teach that God's people are to progressively become more Godlike in character, they do not teach that they will or can become God in the essential traits and elements which constitute deity. God is self-existent ( Jn. 5: 26), enjoys eternality ( Rom. 1: 20), has unlimited power ( Matt. 19: 26), infinite knowledge ( Acts 2: 23, 15: 18), absolute holiness, and truthfulness ( I Jn. 1: 5, Heb. 6: 18). Moreover, God has creative power ( Rom. 11: 36). To teach graduated Godhead, there must of necessity be the attendant teaching of polytheism or many gods. Again, we quote Joseph Smith:
"Hence, the doctrine of a plurality of Gods is as prominent in the Bible as any other doctrine. It is all over the face of the Bible . . . Paul says there are Gods many and Lords many . . . but to us there is but one God--that is pertaining to us; and he is in all and through all" (History of the Church, Vol. 6, page 474). "In the beginning, the head of the Gods called a council of the Gods; and they came together and concocted a plan to create the world and people it." (Journal of Discourses, Vol. 6, p. 5).
Beloved, the scriptures teach and affirm there is only one God ( Deut. 4: 35-39). The state of Godhead, being God, consists of the Father, Son, and the Holy Spirit ( Rom. 1: 7, Heb. 1: 8, Acts 5: 4, 5). God declared: "that ye may know and believe me, and understand that I am he: before me there was no God formed, neither shall there be after me" ( Isa. 43: 10). Before God, there was no God. After God there shall be no God formed. Hence, man cannot so develop and graduate as to become God himself.
AGAIN!
Ye are my witnesses, saith the LORD, and my servant whom I have chosen: that ye may know and believe me and understand that I am he: before me there was no God formed, NEITHER SHALL THERE BE AFTER ME.
NETHER SHALL THERE BE AFTER ME!
GOD BLESS.
I would be remiss here if I didn't include financial decisions in this discussion. When we consider the egregious debts that I am certain many professing believers have saddled themselves with it saddens me to think of how our "rugged individualism" in the USA has seemingly made asking advice on such matters something that doesn't come across the radar of many who otherwise may be involved in the church. Again; I speak from experience when much of the inheritance from my deceased grandmother was spent on frivolous vacations and other things in my early years of marriage. Needless to say such a stressor wasn't helpful in my situation and also is a major source of contention in many marriages.
Most churches have others who can give us wise counsel on that subject; and in fact usually there are more than one person who can help us out skilled as carpenters or laborers who we can bless in doing work for our homes by payment for their services; and who often are willing to give us a break in the bill. It does seem that there are times especially in large churches where those in need the most for a small financial assistance are drowned out effectively by whatever cause is the biggest selling point of interest.
It would be nice to see a church such as the one in the Book of Acts who would sell things when needed so that no one lacked anything ( Acts 4:34). This was a church; of course in its infancy and just after the dramatic Pentecost experience and the 1st Century persecution just starting to ramp up. We should consider as God's people not having to borrow under usery.
Deuteronomy 23 and Psalm 15:5 mention that it applies to us lending to others expecting interest in return as well as being prohibited. In the early church; of course we had a healthy fear of God so that the event with Ananias and Saphira occured ( Acts 5:1-11). Lord willing we can find resources for our needs in our local Body or others of faith.
Romans 14:12, 1Peter 4, Jude 1, Zechariah 3, 1Chronicles 21:1, Job 1, Job 2, Matthew 4:10, Mark 1:13, Luke 4, Luke 22, John 13,
Mark 4:15, Luke 13:16, Acts 5, notice Acts 4:32-37, continued into Acts 5, - Acts 5:13, 1Corinthians 7:5, 2Corinthians 11:13,14, 2Thessalonians 2:9, John 7:24, Romans 14:13,
Acts 26:18, Romans 16:20, Revelation 12:9, Revelation 20, Psalms 98:9,
James 1:5,
Hopefully these give you wisdom
Mark 16:16,17
Luke 24:47,48
John 3:1-6
Acts 2:38
1 Peter 3:21
Acts 19:1-6
Acts 10:44-48
Acts 5:32
1 Corinthians 14:2,22,39
Acts 2:4
Acts 1:8
John 21:15,16
Hopefully these are helpful & encouraging & healing to you, that you likewise will help others Matthew 10:8,
The 10 Commandments therefore are still in force today; but we are unable to follow with the MORE stringent matters of the heart which only again comes from the Spirit. Without this there is an outward obedience only. The only thing which has changed is the Sabbath Day; and I would say that Matthew 12:8 answers this by placing Sunday as the day of rest. This is also the only command that was peculiar to the nation of Israel; rather than universal law which clearly as shown with John the Baptist in matters of divorce holding for pagans as well. Other ceremonial rules changed with Peter's vision in Acts 10.
They feared GOD rather than man
Yes ! Luke 24:47,48 Mark 16:16,17 , Acts 2:38 , Acts 4:12 , Acts 19:1-6 , Acts 5:32 ,
1 Corinthians 14:2,22,39. Acts 1:8 , Acts 2:4 , John 21:15 Jesus loves us!
Landon