Hi Prasanth Konde --> on Judges 2 - who is the Angel name in verse 1?
How to get to his name? Actually he is an archangel. He is a warrior.
He is the same who appeared to Moses in the mount Sina- Exodus 3:v.1-2 and Acts 7:v.30-33;
It is he who appears between the camp of the Egyptians and the camp of Israel in Exodus 14:v.19-20;
GOD reveals to Moses how the behaviour of this angel is. He is severe. Exodus 23:v.20-23
It is he who stood in the way for an adversary against Balaam with his sharp Sword: Numbers 22:v.22 onwards;
Joshua saw him in Jericho when he lifted up his eyes and looked, and, behold, there stood a man over against him with his Sword drawn in his hand. Joshua went unto him, and said unto him, Art thou for us, or for our adversaries? 14 And he said, Nay; but as captain (or Prince) of the host of the Lord am I now come.
James 3:16 - For where envying and strife is, there is confusion and every evil work.
James 4:2-3 - Ye lust, and have not: ye kill, and desire to have, and cannot obtain: ye fight and war, yet ye have not, because ye ask not. (Read More...)
James 3:14 - But if ye have bitter envying and strife in your hearts, glory not, and lie not against the truth.
Proverbs 14:30 - A sound heart is the life of the flesh: but envy the rottenness of the bones.
1 Corinthians 10:13 - There hath no temptation taken you but such as is common to man: but God is faithful, who will not suffer you to be tempted above that ye are able; but will with the temptation also make a way to escape, that ye may be able to bear it.
Galatians 5:19-21 - Now the works of the flesh are manifest, which are these; Adultery, fornication, uncleanness, lasciviousness, (Read More...)
Proverbs 27:4 - Wrath is cruel, and anger is outrageous; but who is able to stand before envy?
James 3:14-15 - But if ye have bitter envying and strife in your hearts, glory not, and lie not against the truth. (Read More...)
1 Corinthians 3:3 - For ye are yet carnal: for whereas there is among you envying, and strife, and divisions, are ye not carnal, and walk as men?
Romans 12:21 - Be not overcome of evil, but overcome evil with good.
1 Corinthians 13:1-8 - Though I speak with the tongues of men and of angels, and have not charity, I am become as sounding brass, or a tinkling cymbal. (Read More...)
Proverbs 10:12 - Hatred stirreth up strifes: but love covereth all sins.
1 John 4:8 - He that loveth not knoweth not God; for God is love.
Psalms 25:4-5 - Shew me thy ways, O LORD; teach me thy paths. (Read More...)
Exodus 20:17 - Thou shalt not covet thy neighbour's house, thou shalt not covet thy neighbour's wife, nor his manservant, nor his maidservant, nor his ox, nor his ass, nor any thing that is thy neighbour's.
Galatians 5:22 - But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy,
I very much agree with you that all souls return to God. Who gave us our spirit as in Ecclesiastes 12:7.
Though as I believe Jesus Christ is at the right hand of God and on the Throne of God in Heaven. As Acts 7:55, Colossians 3:1-4, Hebrews 8:1, Revelation 3:21, Revelation 21:22-23, etc.
I believe I will see, and be with, Jesus Christ, God our Father, and our whole family in Heaven.
Do you have any Scripture to suggest this, Deborah? What we read of Stephen in the Book of Acts, shows him as a man "full of faith & power" ( Acts 6:8) who was subsequently stoned to death ( Acts 7:58-60) for his vibrant preaching of Jesus. Even though the Jewish council members beheld him as seeing the "face of an angel" (6:15), we could understand that Stephen's countenance so changed, reflecting the fullness of the Holy Spirit & the absolute joy & confidence that he had in his Saviour & Lord. The fact that Stephen eventually had to physically die also gives proof that he wasn't an angel, just a man, as angels are eternal beings who can never die.
But he (Stephen), being full of the Holy Ghost, looked up stedfastly into heaven, and saw the glory of God, and Jesus standing on the right hand of God, And said, Behold, I see the heavens opened, and the Son of man standing on the right hand of God.
Colossians 3:1
If ye then be risen with Christ, seek those things which are above, where Christ sitteth on the right hand of God.
Luke 22:69
Hereafter shall the Son of man sit on the right hand of the power of God.
Acts 5:31
Him hath God exalted with his right hand to be a Prince and a Saviour, for to give repentance to Israel, and forgiveness of sins.
Mark 16:19
So then after the Lord had spoken unto them, he was received up into heaven, and sat on the right hand of God.
Hebrews 10:12
But this man, after he had offered one sacrifice for sins for ever, sat down on the right hand of God;
1 Peter 3:22
Who is gone into heaven, and is on the right hand of God; angels and authorities and powers being made subject unto him.
Romans 8:34
Who is he that condemneth? It is Christ that died, yea rather, that is risen again, who is even at the right hand of God, who also maketh intercession for us.
Hebrews 12:2
Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith; who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God.
Matthew 22:44 (see Psalm 110:1)
The LORD said unto my Lord, Sit thou on my right hand, till I make thine enemies thy footstool?
Revelation 5:7
And he came and took the book out of the right hand of him that sat upon the throne.
I firmly believe that when we die, our soul goes immediately into the presence of the Lord. 2 Corinthians 5:1 says, "For we know that if our earthly house of this tabernacle (physical body) were dissolved (physical death), we have a building of God, an house not made with hands, eternal in the heavens.
Paul goes on to say in Verse 6, "Therefore we are always confident, knowing that, whilst we are at home in the body (physically alive right now), we are absent from the Lord:"
But then in Verse 8, he says, "We are confident, I say, and willing rather to be absent from the body, and to be present with the Lord."
Please notice that when we're here, the Lord's with us but we're not with Him in heaven. But as soon as you are absent from the body, as soon as you experience death, which means separation, as soon as your spirit leaves your body, you're in the presence of the Lord.
Paul said that his physical death would be far better for him than remaining alive because he knew that he would be in the presence of Christ. That is given to us in Philippians 1:23.
In Acts 7:59, at the stoning of Stephen, it tells us that as they were stoning him, he was calling upon God. And this is the thing that Stephen said first of all when they were stoning him. He said Lord Jesus, receive my spirit. It reminds me of Luke 23:46, "And when Jesus had cried out with a loud voice, He said Father, into thy hands I commend my Spirit. And having said thus, He expired or gave up the ghost."
So, when we die, our physical body goes into the grave and waits until the resurrection where we will receive a new glorified body. But at death, our soul separates from the physical body and goes to be with the Lord immediately.
What is the motive for this campaign to discredit Jesus's divinity? Why do you celebrate when you feel you have delivered your case? Does this actually come from God, or does it actually come from the great deceiver?
Some of these comments even have a sense of pride- as if demeaning Jesus is an accomplishment to be proud of. Whomever is behind this campaign seems quite closed off to just normal, non-distorted interpreations of the Word.
Shame on you and everyone who is attacking and trying to discredit the Bible and demean Jesus. I find these posts disturbing and even sickening to think that Christians are giving into a lie so easily without question. But the truth will always expose the lie. Jesus is Lord and Jesus is divine and Jesus is the Son and Jesus is one with the Father and Holy Spirit, Jesus is the I AM, Jesus is God just as the Bible says.
I would like to reply to your question. So going back to Genesis 22 is the story of Abraham offering up his son Isaac. Which I believe is stated to be a test of faith from God to Abraham. Hebrews 11:7, James 2:21-23. To see how deep his faith truly was. Not just faith but faith by works.
As this topic has come up before I will share my beliefs with some Scripture to it. As another stated also, I do not say Jesus Christ is God the Father. I believe as God is eternal that instead of Him being alone why not have a Son whom is perfect in every aspect just as He is. To be in Him and with Him always in His heart and in His bosom John 1:18 for companionship (that actually just came to me today as I was standing outside praising the Lord).
I usually state Jesus Christ as Lord along with thirty other names I know by heart that I call Him while in prayer. I do not call Him God personally. Although He is one with God and I believe He is the Word of God(as it states in Revelation 19:13. Also some titles the Father and Son share are Lord of lords, Alpha and Omega, Savior. As in the OT, using only one verse as there are many, that there is no Saviour but the LORD. Isaiah 43:11. Through out the NT God and Jesus Christ are both stated as our Saviour. Just some Titus 1:3, Titus 1:4, Titus 3:4, Titus 3:6.
So as you have your own beliefs, and just as well I have mine, I will stop here as I don't want to quarrel or argue any more about this. I believe Jesus Christ the only begotten Son of God is eternal just as the Father and has always been with the Father. Yes His physical life came to this earth being born of Mary. As He had to suffer death for us as a perfect sacrifice or offering for our sins. Which is very honorable and why the Father honors Him higher than any other being. Even the highest Holy angels. Hebrews 1:4.
And about Him being at the Fathers right hand Steven saw this before He was stoned in Acts 7:55-56. So it's not just a metaphor. God Bless
Hi mountain preacher ,i belive its reffering to Joshua ,his name is a hebrew version of Jesus i think . That Joshua who took Jericho in the old testament .
Are you saying, that as Stephen was being stoned to death (under Paul's supervision);
Jesus who is SEATED at the right hand of God, STOOD up as Steven died. Acts 7:55-56
The Bible says he's seated, but in this event He stood up... ? Anyone wanna bet that Steven did not descend to a place of holding. After this event, Paul was blinded, knocked off his horse, and questioned by Jesus, "why are you persecuting ME?!"
Acts 6:8
And Stephen, full of faith and power, did great wonders and miracles among the people.
Acts 6:9
Then there arose certain of the synagogue, which is called the synagogue of the Libertines, and Cyrenians, and Alexandrians, and of them of Cilicia and of Asia, disputing with Stephen.
Acts 7:59
And they stoned Stephen, calling upon God, and saying, Lord Jesus, receive my SPIRIT.
Acts 8:2
And devout men carried Stephen to his burial, and made great lamentation over him.
Acts 11:19
Now they which were scattered abroad upon the persecution that arose about Stephen travelled as far as Phenice, and Cyprus, and Antioch, preaching the word to none but unto the Jews only.
Acts 22:20
And when the blood of thy martyr Stephen was shed, I also (Saul) was standing by, and consenting unto his death, and kept the raiment of them that slew him.
There's is no doubt that Stephens spirit is in heaven now.
Comment by Mishael: In the Bible circumcision was the sign of being in covenant with God. In the New Testament Paul had to teach that circumcision was now in the heart. (Stoned many times for that). A new and better Covenant was secured by Jesus on the Cross; ratified by His own blood.
OLD TESTAMENT
Genesis 17:10
This is my COVENANT which ye shall keep, between me and you and thy seed after thee; Every man child among you shall be circumcised.
Genesis 17:11
And ye shall circumcise the flesh of your foreskin; and it shall be a token of the COVENANT betwixt me and you.
Genesis 17:12
And he that is eight days old shall be circumcised among you, every man child in your generations, he that is born in the house, or bought with money of any stranger, which is not of thy seed.
Genesis 17:13
He that is born in thy house, and he that is bought with thy money, must needs be circumcised: and my covenant shall be in your flesh for an everlasting covenant.
Deuteronomy 10:16
Circumcise therefore the foreskin of your HEART and be no more stiffnecked.
NEW TESTAMENT
Acts 7:51
Ye stiffnecked and uncircumcised in HEART AND EARS, you do always resist the Holy Ghost: as your fathers did, so do you (now).
Hi Monica. Here's a Little commentary on Abraham you will find in the New testament to parallel with Genesis ch 11:26 through Genesis Ch 25.
Acts 7:2-10. And he said, Men, brethren, and fathers, hearken; The God of glory appeared unto our father Abraham, when he was in Mesopotamia, before he dwelt in Charran,
And said unto him, Get thee out of thy country, and from thy kindred, and come into the land which I shall shew thee.
Then came he out of the land of the Chaldaeans, and dwelt in Charran: and from thence, when his father was dead, he removed him into this land, wherein ye now dwell.
And he gave him none inheritance in it, no, not so much as to set his foot on: yet he promised that he would give it to him for a possession, and to his seed after him, when as yet he had no child.
And God spake on this wise, That his seed should sojourn in a strange land; and that they should bring them into bondage, and entreat them evil four hundred years.
And the nation to whom they shall be in bondage will I judge, said God: and after that shall they come forth, and serve me in this place.
And he gave him the covenant of circumcision: and so Abraham begat Isaac, and circumcised him the eighth day; and Isaac begat Jacob; and Jacob begat the twelve patriarchs.
And the patriarchs, moved with envy, sold Joseph into Egypt: but God was with him,
And delivered him out of all his afflictions, and gave him favour and wisdom in the sight of Pharaoh king of Egypt; and he made him governor over Egypt and all his house.
Abraham is a great study, And always ask questions and seek answers. Thank you.
As Chris stated, the star of david is not mentioned in The Bible.
But there was a star mentioned in a prophecy by the pagan prophet, Balaam, when he had been hired by the king of Moab to put a curse on the people of Israel. But God wouldn't let him utter a curse no matter how he tried. It's quite a story, with a donkey being more perceptive than a prophet. Anyhow, here's the prophecy that God allowed him to pronounce:
"I shall see him, but not now: I shall behold him, but not nigh: there shall come a Star out of Jacob, and a Sceptre shall rise out of Israel, and shall smite the corners of Moab, and destroy all the children of Sheth." Num 24:17 (KJVA)
This is referring to someone who's appearing later, not at that time. A "Star" out of Jacob and a "Sceptre" out of Israel. Well Jacob was named, by God Himself, "Israel" in Genesis 32:22-32. Judah was the fourth son of Jacob and was the ancestor of King David and Joseph the husband of Mary and Mary the mother of Jesus, The King of Kings and Lord of Lords.
"I Jesus have sent mine angel to testify unto you these things in the churches. I am the root and the offspring of David, and the bright and morning star." Rev 22:16 (KJVA)
The Star of David, or in Hebrew, "Magen David" (Shield of David) is not in Scripture. It's use today is as a symbol of Jewish identity. It had its roots much earlier in Jewish mysticism whereby David's shield (a five pointed star) was said to hold special powers against evil spirits & used by Muslims as the 'Seal of Solomon' - wearing it as a protective amulet against evil.
Only after the 17th Century AD, it became a six pointed star & the official seal of many Jewish communities & a general sign of Judaism. So, it definitely has no Scriptural warrant or mention but merely a Jewish emblem for today.
I can heartily agree with your first paragraph that the Triune God is very Truth. But then you say that the Holy Spirit is not a person. And it's at this point that we have to dwell.
Before I give you some Scriptures, let me ask, "what if God chose to embody His "Truth" (the Holy Spirit), with flesh, as He did to His "Word"? Would that alter your belief that the Spirit is more than the Truth (a Word) of God, but very God Himself by His Spirit?
Some Scriptures for you to consider that the Holy Spirit is not only the 'Truth of God' but sent from God as God: 1 Corinthians 2:10-11 (He is Intelligent, He searches, He knows, He has a Will); Ephesians 4:30 (He has feelings - can be grieved & He seals the believer); John 14:26 (He teaches; notice the pronoun); John 16:13, Romans 8:14; Acts 8:29 (He guides, leads, speaks, hears, glorifies God); Acts 13:4 (He commissions or despatches); Romans 8:26,27 (He intercedes); Matthew 12:31 (He can be blasphemed); Acts 5:3 (He can be lied to); Acts 7:51 (He can be resisted); Hebrews 10:29 (He can be outraged). And these are just a few to consider.
Then if we leave off the word 'Spirit' & replace it with 'Truth' in those Scriptures (as you asked me to try out), in some cases, it could work as the Spirit is Truth, as God & the Son are Truth. But in other cases, that just wouldn't work (e.g. how does the Truth (as a spoken Word) grieve, search, has a Will, feelings, hears, glorifies, commissions, intercedes, blasphemed against, etc.?). And then again, why did God not just use the word 'Truth' (as in 'the Truth shall set you free') but rather shows us that His Spirit (of Truth) was sent to accomplish these tasks? I can see if someone has difficulty with the Doctrine of the Trinity, then understanding the Spirit's part in the Godhead would be a problem.
Eric, I'm not aware of which discussion thread you're referring to: "stoning to death is just a spiritual death", so can't comment specifically on what was written there. But if that conversation was in respect of, for example, Stephen's stoning ( Acts 7:58), then it's clearly a physical stoning as all the verses depicting that event clearly show. Maybe, some people can't bear the thought of a person being stoned, as was done in those days & sometimes happens now under Islamic law in rural areas, & so they form their interpretation based on their feelings rather than fact. So please remember, those that offer their opinions, whether correctly based on Scripture or not, are doing just that (an opinion) & it's up to the reader to consider those comments & make their assessment - maybe even offer yours so that a good discussion can happen. God bless you in your journey.
We're introduced to Paul (then known as Saul) from Acts 7:58 onwards. Saul, by his own claim, was a Jew & a Pharisee (a religious leader, studied in Jewish Law), from the tribe of Benjamin ( Philippians 3:5,6). He also hailed from Tarsus, Celicia in Asia Minor (now Turkey). If you're keen to see the city & you have a map of Turkey, Tarsus is located between the cities of Mersin & Adana on the South coast.
Then from Acts chapter 9, you can read of Saul's mighty encounter with the risen Jesus Christ & from that event, Saul believed on Jesus, was baptized & later he was also referred to as Paul ( Acts 13:9). We generally hear the name Paul being used from hereon.
Paul wasn't one of the 12 disciples who walked with Jesus. However, since Paul had seen the Lord, received teaching from him (from Heaven while in the deserts of Arabia: Galatians 1:17), & called by Jesus to be His apostle ( Romans 1:1), the other apostles after some initial hesitance acceptance him. And of course, we know that God used Paul mightily to preach to both the Jews & the Gentiles of His saving Grace (his mission however was primarily to the Gentiles). Paul went on several missionary journeys & established several Churches, even in his own country. How very sad though, that Turkey now has Islam as its predominant religion, when at the time of Paul, he would have "turned the world upside down" with the power of the Gospel even in his home country.
So, if you read the Book of Acts, especially from chapter 7 onwards, you'll learn more of what I've shared here. And then his letters to the Churches are filled with wisdom, that which he learned from Jesus to teach Christians on how to live the Christian life victoriously.
How to get to his name? Actually he is an archangel. He is a warrior.
He is the same who appeared to Moses in the mount Sina- Exodus 3:v.1-2 and Acts 7:v.30-33;
It is he who appears between the camp of the Egyptians and the camp of Israel in Exodus 14:v.19-20;
GOD reveals to Moses how the behaviour of this angel is. He is severe. Exodus 23:v.20-23
It is he who stood in the way for an adversary against Balaam with his sharp Sword: Numbers 22:v.22 onwards;
Joshua saw him in Jericho when he lifted up his eyes and looked, and, behold, there stood a man over against him with his Sword drawn in his hand. Joshua went unto him, and said unto him, Art thou for us, or for our adversaries? 14 And he said, Nay; but as captain (or Prince) of the host of the Lord am I now come.
His name? Daniel 12:v.1-3
I would refer you to Genesis Ch 37.
Read all.
GOD BLESS
James 4:2-3 - Ye lust, and have not: ye kill, and desire to have, and cannot obtain: ye fight and war, yet ye have not, because ye ask not. (Read More...)
James 3:14 - But if ye have bitter envying and strife in your hearts, glory not, and lie not against the truth.
Proverbs 14:30 - A sound heart is the life of the flesh: but envy the rottenness of the bones.
1 Corinthians 10:13 - There hath no temptation taken you but such as is common to man: but God is faithful, who will not suffer you to be tempted above that ye are able; but will with the temptation also make a way to escape, that ye may be able to bear it.
Galatians 5:19-21 - Now the works of the flesh are manifest, which are these; Adultery, fornication, uncleanness, lasciviousness, (Read More...)
Proverbs 27:4 - Wrath is cruel, and anger is outrageous; but who is able to stand before envy?
James 3:14-15 - But if ye have bitter envying and strife in your hearts, glory not, and lie not against the truth. (Read More...)
1 Corinthians 3:3 - For ye are yet carnal: for whereas there is among you envying, and strife, and divisions, are ye not carnal, and walk as men?
Romans 12:21 - Be not overcome of evil, but overcome evil with good.
1 Corinthians 13:1-8 - Though I speak with the tongues of men and of angels, and have not charity, I am become as sounding brass, or a tinkling cymbal. (Read More...)
Proverbs 10:12 - Hatred stirreth up strifes: but love covereth all sins.
1 John 4:8 - He that loveth not knoweth not God; for God is love.
Psalms 25:4-5 - Shew me thy ways, O LORD; teach me thy paths. (Read More...)
Exodus 20:17 - Thou shalt not covet thy neighbour's house, thou shalt not covet thy neighbour's wife, nor his manservant, nor his maidservant, nor his ox, nor his ass, nor any thing that is thy neighbour's.
Galatians 5:22 - But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy,
I very much agree with you that all souls return to God. Who gave us our spirit as in Ecclesiastes 12:7.
Though as I believe Jesus Christ is at the right hand of God and on the Throne of God in Heaven. As Acts 7:55, Colossians 3:1-4, Hebrews 8:1, Revelation 3:21, Revelation 21:22-23, etc.
I believe I will see, and be with, Jesus Christ, God our Father, and our whole family in Heaven.
God Bless. Have a wonderful day!
But he (Stephen), being full of the Holy Ghost, looked up stedfastly into heaven, and saw the glory of God, and Jesus standing on the right hand of God, And said, Behold, I see the heavens opened, and the Son of man standing on the right hand of God.
Colossians 3:1
If ye then be risen with Christ, seek those things which are above, where Christ sitteth on the right hand of God.
Luke 22:69
Hereafter shall the Son of man sit on the right hand of the power of God.
Acts 5:31
Him hath God exalted with his right hand to be a Prince and a Saviour, for to give repentance to Israel, and forgiveness of sins.
Mark 16:19
So then after the Lord had spoken unto them, he was received up into heaven, and sat on the right hand of God.
Hebrews 10:12
But this man, after he had offered one sacrifice for sins for ever, sat down on the right hand of God;
1 Peter 3:22
Who is gone into heaven, and is on the right hand of God; angels and authorities and powers being made subject unto him.
Romans 8:34
Who is he that condemneth? It is Christ that died, yea rather, that is risen again, who is even at the right hand of God, who also maketh intercession for us.
Hebrews 12:2
Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith; who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God.
Matthew 22:44 (see Psalm 110:1)
The LORD said unto my Lord, Sit thou on my right hand, till I make thine enemies thy footstool?
Revelation 5:7
And he came and took the book out of the right hand of him that sat upon the throne.
I firmly believe that when we die, our soul goes immediately into the presence of the Lord. 2 Corinthians 5:1 says, "For we know that if our earthly house of this tabernacle (physical body) were dissolved (physical death), we have a building of God, an house not made with hands, eternal in the heavens.
Paul goes on to say in Verse 6, "Therefore we are always confident, knowing that, whilst we are at home in the body (physically alive right now), we are absent from the Lord:"
But then in Verse 8, he says, "We are confident, I say, and willing rather to be absent from the body, and to be present with the Lord."
Please notice that when we're here, the Lord's with us but we're not with Him in heaven. But as soon as you are absent from the body, as soon as you experience death, which means separation, as soon as your spirit leaves your body, you're in the presence of the Lord.
Paul said that his physical death would be far better for him than remaining alive because he knew that he would be in the presence of Christ. That is given to us in Philippians 1:23.
In Acts 7:59, at the stoning of Stephen, it tells us that as they were stoning him, he was calling upon God. And this is the thing that Stephen said first of all when they were stoning him. He said Lord Jesus, receive my spirit. It reminds me of Luke 23:46, "And when Jesus had cried out with a loud voice, He said Father, into thy hands I commend my Spirit. And having said thus, He expired or gave up the ghost."
So, when we die, our physical body goes into the grave and waits until the resurrection where we will receive a new glorified body. But at death, our soul separates from the physical body and goes to be with the Lord immediately.
Some of these comments even have a sense of pride- as if demeaning Jesus is an accomplishment to be proud of. Whomever is behind this campaign seems quite closed off to just normal, non-distorted interpreations of the Word.
Shame on you and everyone who is attacking and trying to discredit the Bible and demean Jesus. I find these posts disturbing and even sickening to think that Christians are giving into a lie so easily without question. But the truth will always expose the lie. Jesus is Lord and Jesus is divine and Jesus is the Son and Jesus is one with the Father and Holy Spirit, Jesus is the I AM, Jesus is God just as the Bible says.
Isaiah 44:6
John 20:27-28
John 10:30
John 5:18
John 1:18
Colossians 2:9-10
John 10:33
John 1:1
John 1:14
1 Corinthians 8:6
Revelation 1:17-18
Acts 7:59-60
Matthew 28:19
2 Peter 1:1
Acts 20:28
1 John 5:7
I would like to reply to your question. So going back to Genesis 22 is the story of Abraham offering up his son Isaac. Which I believe is stated to be a test of faith from God to Abraham. Hebrews 11:7, James 2:21-23. To see how deep his faith truly was. Not just faith but faith by works.
As this topic has come up before I will share my beliefs with some Scripture to it. As another stated also, I do not say Jesus Christ is God the Father. I believe as God is eternal that instead of Him being alone why not have a Son whom is perfect in every aspect just as He is. To be in Him and with Him always in His heart and in His bosom John 1:18 for companionship (that actually just came to me today as I was standing outside praising the Lord).
I usually state Jesus Christ as Lord along with thirty other names I know by heart that I call Him while in prayer. I do not call Him God personally. Although He is one with God and I believe He is the Word of God(as it states in Revelation 19:13. Also some titles the Father and Son share are Lord of lords, Alpha and Omega, Savior. As in the OT, using only one verse as there are many, that there is no Saviour but the LORD. Isaiah 43:11. Through out the NT God and Jesus Christ are both stated as our Saviour. Just some Titus 1:3, Titus 1:4, Titus 3:4, Titus 3:6.
So as you have your own beliefs, and just as well I have mine, I will stop here as I don't want to quarrel or argue any more about this. I believe Jesus Christ the only begotten Son of God is eternal just as the Father and has always been with the Father. Yes His physical life came to this earth being born of Mary. As He had to suffer death for us as a perfect sacrifice or offering for our sins. Which is very honorable and why the Father honors Him higher than any other being. Even the highest Holy angels. Hebrews 1:4.
And about Him being at the Fathers right hand Steven saw this before He was stoned in Acts 7:55-56. So it's not just a metaphor. God Bless
Jesus who is SEATED at the right hand of God, STOOD up as Steven died. Acts 7:55-56
The Bible says he's seated, but in this event He stood up... ? Anyone wanna bet that Steven did not descend to a place of holding. After this event, Paul was blinded, knocked off his horse, and questioned by Jesus, "why are you persecuting ME?!"
Acts 6:8
And Stephen, full of faith and power, did great wonders and miracles among the people.
Acts 6:9
Then there arose certain of the synagogue, which is called the synagogue of the Libertines, and Cyrenians, and Alexandrians, and of them of Cilicia and of Asia, disputing with Stephen.
Acts 7:59
And they stoned Stephen, calling upon God, and saying, Lord Jesus, receive my SPIRIT.
Acts 8:2
And devout men carried Stephen to his burial, and made great lamentation over him.
Acts 11:19
Now they which were scattered abroad upon the persecution that arose about Stephen travelled as far as Phenice, and Cyprus, and Antioch, preaching the word to none but unto the Jews only.
Acts 22:20
And when the blood of thy martyr Stephen was shed, I also (Saul) was standing by, and consenting unto his death, and kept the raiment of them that slew him.
There's is no doubt that Stephens spirit is in heaven now.
Note: Acts 5:29-33
Mishael
Comment by Mishael: In the Bible circumcision was the sign of being in covenant with God. In the New Testament Paul had to teach that circumcision was now in the heart. (Stoned many times for that). A new and better Covenant was secured by Jesus on the Cross; ratified by His own blood.
OLD TESTAMENT
Genesis 17:10
This is my COVENANT which ye shall keep, between me and you and thy seed after thee; Every man child among you shall be circumcised.
Genesis 17:11
And ye shall circumcise the flesh of your foreskin; and it shall be a token of the COVENANT betwixt me and you.
Genesis 17:12
And he that is eight days old shall be circumcised among you, every man child in your generations, he that is born in the house, or bought with money of any stranger, which is not of thy seed.
Genesis 17:13
He that is born in thy house, and he that is bought with thy money, must needs be circumcised: and my covenant shall be in your flesh for an everlasting covenant.
Deuteronomy 10:16
Circumcise therefore the foreskin of your HEART and be no more stiffnecked.
NEW TESTAMENT
Acts 7:51
Ye stiffnecked and uncircumcised in HEART AND EARS, you do always resist the Holy Ghost: as your fathers did, so do you (now).
Acts 7:2-10. And he said, Men, brethren, and fathers, hearken; The God of glory appeared unto our father Abraham, when he was in Mesopotamia, before he dwelt in Charran,
And said unto him, Get thee out of thy country, and from thy kindred, and come into the land which I shall shew thee.
Then came he out of the land of the Chaldaeans, and dwelt in Charran: and from thence, when his father was dead, he removed him into this land, wherein ye now dwell.
And he gave him none inheritance in it, no, not so much as to set his foot on: yet he promised that he would give it to him for a possession, and to his seed after him, when as yet he had no child.
And God spake on this wise, That his seed should sojourn in a strange land; and that they should bring them into bondage, and entreat them evil four hundred years.
And the nation to whom they shall be in bondage will I judge, said God: and after that shall they come forth, and serve me in this place.
And he gave him the covenant of circumcision: and so Abraham begat Isaac, and circumcised him the eighth day; and Isaac begat Jacob; and Jacob begat the twelve patriarchs.
And the patriarchs, moved with envy, sold Joseph into Egypt: but God was with him,
And delivered him out of all his afflictions, and gave him favour and wisdom in the sight of Pharaoh king of Egypt; and he made him governor over Egypt and all his house.
Abraham is a great study, And always ask questions and seek answers. Thank you.
But there was a star mentioned in a prophecy by the pagan prophet, Balaam, when he had been hired by the king of Moab to put a curse on the people of Israel. But God wouldn't let him utter a curse no matter how he tried. It's quite a story, with a donkey being more perceptive than a prophet. Anyhow, here's the prophecy that God allowed him to pronounce:
"I shall see him, but not now: I shall behold him, but not nigh: there shall come a Star out of Jacob, and a Sceptre shall rise out of Israel, and shall smite the corners of Moab, and destroy all the children of Sheth." Num 24:17 (KJVA)
This is referring to someone who's appearing later, not at that time. A "Star" out of Jacob and a "Sceptre" out of Israel. Well Jacob was named, by God Himself, "Israel" in Genesis 32:22-32. Judah was the fourth son of Jacob and was the ancestor of King David and Joseph the husband of Mary and Mary the mother of Jesus, The King of Kings and Lord of Lords.
"I Jesus have sent mine angel to testify unto you these things in the churches. I am the root and the offspring of David, and the bright and morning star." Rev 22:16 (KJVA)
Only after the 17th Century AD, it became a six pointed star & the official seal of many Jewish communities & a general sign of Judaism. So, it definitely has no Scriptural warrant or mention but merely a Jewish emblem for today.
I did the search for you brother:
Matthew 26:64, Mark 14:62, Luke 22:69
Psalms 110:1
Mark 16:19
Acts 2:33
Acts 7:55-56
Romans 8:34
Ephesians 1:20
Colossians 3:1
Hebrews 1:3
Hebrews 8:1
Hebrews 10:12
Hebrews 12:2
( 1 Peter 3:22
Before I give you some Scriptures, let me ask, "what if God chose to embody His "Truth" (the Holy Spirit), with flesh, as He did to His "Word"? Would that alter your belief that the Spirit is more than the Truth (a Word) of God, but very God Himself by His Spirit?
Some Scriptures for you to consider that the Holy Spirit is not only the 'Truth of God' but sent from God as God: 1 Corinthians 2:10-11 (He is Intelligent, He searches, He knows, He has a Will); Ephesians 4:30 (He has feelings - can be grieved & He seals the believer); John 14:26 (He teaches; notice the pronoun); John 16:13, Romans 8:14; Acts 8:29 (He guides, leads, speaks, hears, glorifies God); Acts 13:4 (He commissions or despatches); Romans 8:26,27 (He intercedes); Matthew 12:31 (He can be blasphemed); Acts 5:3 (He can be lied to); Acts 7:51 (He can be resisted); Hebrews 10:29 (He can be outraged). And these are just a few to consider.
Then if we leave off the word 'Spirit' & replace it with 'Truth' in those Scriptures (as you asked me to try out), in some cases, it could work as the Spirit is Truth, as God & the Son are Truth. But in other cases, that just wouldn't work (e.g. how does the Truth (as a spoken Word) grieve, search, has a Will, feelings, hears, glorifies, commissions, intercedes, blasphemed against, etc.?). And then again, why did God not just use the word 'Truth' (as in 'the Truth shall set you free') but rather shows us that His Spirit (of Truth) was sent to accomplish these tasks? I can see if someone has difficulty with the Doctrine of the Trinity, then understanding the Spirit's part in the Godhead would be a problem.
Then from Acts chapter 9, you can read of Saul's mighty encounter with the risen Jesus Christ & from that event, Saul believed on Jesus, was baptized & later he was also referred to as Paul ( Acts 13:9). We generally hear the name Paul being used from hereon.
Paul wasn't one of the 12 disciples who walked with Jesus. However, since Paul had seen the Lord, received teaching from him (from Heaven while in the deserts of Arabia: Galatians 1:17), & called by Jesus to be His apostle ( Romans 1:1), the other apostles after some initial hesitance acceptance him. And of course, we know that God used Paul mightily to preach to both the Jews & the Gentiles of His saving Grace (his mission however was primarily to the Gentiles). Paul went on several missionary journeys & established several Churches, even in his own country. How very sad though, that Turkey now has Islam as its predominant religion, when at the time of Paul, he would have "turned the world upside down" with the power of the Gospel even in his home country.
So, if you read the Book of Acts, especially from chapter 7 onwards, you'll learn more of what I've shared here. And then his letters to the Churches are filled with wisdom, that which he learned from Jesus to teach Christians on how to live the Christian life victoriously.
Luke 22:69; Hebrews 1:13; Hebrews 8:1; Hebrews 10:12; Hebrews 12:2; Acts 7:56; Romans 8:34; 1 Peter 3:22; etc.