Thank you, Jesus shamed the leaders of Jerusalem about traditions, Matthew 15:3 and we are told in Colossians 2:8. My understanding is when we believe in our heart that Jesus is the Son of God and the only way to salvation we are justified by God's grace, Romans 3:24 and being baptized is being obedient to God's word, being justified freely by his grace through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus: We then start the road to sanctification by the washing of regeneration and renewing of the Holy Ghost, Titus 3:5.
Jesus Christ has done everything necessary for our salvation and all we do we do in is name including being baptized, Colossians 3:17. He paid the penalty that our sins deserved by His sacrificial death on the cross. His death satisfied God's justice and turned away His wrath from us. God calls us but we must answer we must believe and be obedient to Him to be chosen, Matthew 22:14 For many are called, but few are chosen.
When we are baptized in the Name of Jesus we have put on Christ, Galatians 3:27. Being baptized is obedience, Ephesians 2:102 Thessalonians 1:8, every believer who has opportunity will be baptized in obedience to the Lord Jesus Christ. Baptism is the result of salvation, not the means to it.
Our obedience strengthens our faith, obedience shows our love for God, and our obedience to God's word is essential and it is not works. Those who are obedient are imitators of Christ and are willingly submitting to the authority, His will, and the word of God.
I would like to expound a little more on your statement saying, "you know how to get saved and it's hard for you because you're scared and nervous about it"
Here's why I asked you for clarity on that statement..
There's some hold to a legalistic viewpoint when coming to God for salvation.
In the Old testament Israel was given the Law and commandments the showed them and the world "Including us" we all have a fallen nature and is need of a savior.
As did the Israelites in the old testament they feared approaching God under that ministry of condemnation.
However, to them and us God provided a savior, our Lord Jesus Christ!
There is no need to fear, we have found mercy in Christ.
Ephesians 2:4-9.
We can now approach the throne of grace and there is no need of fear!
Hebrews 10:19-23 states, "Having therefore, brethren, boldness to enter into the holiest by the blood of Jesus,
By a new and living way, which he hath consecrated for us, through the veil, that is to say, his flesh;
And having an high priest over the house of God;
Let us draw near with a true heart in full assurance of faith, having our hearts sprinkled from an evil conscience, and our bodies washed with pure water.
Let us hold fast the profession of our faith without wavering; (for he is faithful that promised;)
Romans 10:9 states "That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved.
We confess that are a sinner, turn our hearts to God for his grace and mercy and he is faithful to forgive us.
"All that the Father giveth me shall come to me; and him that cometh to me I will in no wise cast out"
Daniel 9:24-27, in this prophecy, there are seventy weeks or 490 years determined unto Daniel's people and the holy city to finish the transgression, and to make an end of sins, and to make reconciliation for iniquity, and to bring in everlasting righteousness, and to seal up the vision and prophecy, and to anoint the most Holy.
Have these 6 things been fulfilled in Jesus the Messiah, and the judgment of it carried out in 70 AD? If so, all of this prophecy has been fulfilled in the past.
1 To finish the transgression. To break or violate, as a law, civil or moral; the act of transgressing. Psalms 32:1Isaiah 53:5-11Romans 4:14-15Galatians 3:18-19Hebrews 9:14-15.
2 To make an end to sins. Whosoever committeth sin transgresseth also the law: for sin is the transgression of the law. Matthew 1:21Hebrews 10:8-11John 1:291 Corinthians 15:31 John 3:5Psalm 32:1Romans 3:21-26Romans 8:3.
3 To make reconciliation for iniquity. Reconciliation is an element of salvation that refers to the results of the atonement. Colossians 1:20-22Isaiah 53:6Isaiah 53:11Romans 5:11Ephesians 2:16Titus 2:142 Corinthians 5:18-19.
4 To bring in everlasting righteousness. In conformity to the demands of the covenant and according to God's will. Isaiah 61:10-11Romans 3:21-26Romans 5:17-212 Corinthians 5:211 Peter 2:24.
5 To seal up the vision and prophecy. The greatest prediction, which runs like a golden thread through the whole contents of the Old Testament, is that regarding the coming and work of the Messiah, Jesus. Daniel 9:23Matthew 11:11-15Mark 1:14-15John 5:36-40John 6:27Acts 3:18.
6 To anoint the most holy. The high priest went into the holy of holies once a year with the blood of a sacrificed bull. Jesus our high priest with His own blood anointed the most holy not made with hands once and for all, forever. Hebrews 9:6-14.
Completing my example 1 of prayer for someone to be saved; as I repeatedly nag it isn't something we find in scripture. Paul when on trial went as close as saying he wished to see someone saved ( Acts 26:28 with Agrippa). Just as we once were before the light broke through we were once blinded to the truth; and therefore shouldn't expect any efforts no matter how sincere or even faith filled will make one iota of difference in bringing someone to salvation. That is a really harsh statement at face value.
We know for a fact it won't work with someone already physically deceased; and of course that would be a sin or necromancy and useless according to Hebrews 9:27. But we were once "dead in sin" ( Ephesians 2:13). It is easy as a true believer to be perplexed how people can have multiple and long term opportunities to hear the Gospel and still reject it. What is worse is those who go along and perhaps make a confession but are insincere in their hearts; thus never producing "good fruit". We know that if we hear the truth it is of God as our spirit testifies with His Spirit that we are children of God. ( Romans 8:16).
The rest of the world is content that Christ is a good teacher or Prophet as that is all they can see; His humanity apart from Divinity as a member of the Godhead.
I will leave this topic with a general statement. We should sow seeds with whoever we can; but not make an undo effort to spend an inordinate amount of time with those not open to the Gospel at the expense of the Great Commission at large.
As Jesus stated in comparison to our service to God we must hate those closest to us; which doesn't mean of course to abandon care as that makes us worse than an infidel. Our motivation for service must be to serve God always; and that has to be despite whether all those we care about come to Christ or not.
Even though there is a distinction between the children of God and the children of the world the scripture says to be kind to all men. Galatians 6:10.
However, we're not all Brothern.
John 1:11-12 says "He came unto his own, and his own received him not.
But as many as received him, to them gave he power to become the "sons of God, even to them that believe on his name"
Jesus also said in Matthew 12:50 "For whosoever shall do the will of my Father which is in heaven, the same is my brother, and sister, and mother.
Ephesians 2:19 states Now therefore ye are no more strangers and foreigners, but fellow citizens with the saints, and of the household of God.
So, there is a clear distinction in scripture between God's children and those who haven't received him.
1 John 3:9-10 covers this well, "Whosoever is born of God doth not commit sin; for his seed remaineth in him: and he cannot sin, because he is born of God.
In this the children of God are manifest, and the children of the devil: whosoever doeth not righteousness is not of God, neither he that loveth not his brother.
"Sons of God" emphasizes a natural, internal relationship with God rather than an external adoption. Becoming God's children involves a real change and transformation, not just a change in title or position. We partake in the divine nature.
All people are not naturally God's children. We must be born again through faith in Christ to become God's children.
This separates us from Adam.
We are now joint heirs with Christ. Romans 8:14-17 "For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, they are the sons of God.
For ye have not received the spirit of bondage again to fear; but ye have received the Spirit of adoption, whereby we cry, Abba, Father. The Spirit itself beareth witness with our spirit, that we are the children of God:
And if children, then heirs; heirs of God, and joint-heirs with Christ; if so be that we suffer with him, that we may be also glorified together.
Jesus the Messiah/Christ God's only begotten Son is the purpose, I do not know if I am reading your question correctly, may you and others have more or different understandings.
1 Corinthians 2:16 tells us we have the mind of Christ, but no one can know the mind of God. 2 Peter 3:18 tells us to grow in grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus. All began with Jesus; Jesus is the beginning of God's plan. Isaiah 45:18Isaiah 46:8-10 God and there is none like Him, He declared the end from the beginning His counsel (His purpose and plan by His will) shall stand and God will do all His pleasure, Psalms 33:11.
God is not in our time the end of His plan is as the beginning God's plan was completed when He made it, we have the Bible, and with the guidance of the Holy Spirit His plan is made known to us as our time comes to be, as in Ephesians 1:10-12 to be the praise and glory to God.
God declared from the very beginnings of history, Acts 17:24-26 there is but one human race, we all are of the same blood, and in Jesus Christ we become brothers and sisters. In God's plan, it is finished, nothing will change. In God, it is finished already to Him who is from everlasting to everlasting, Psalms 90:2 and how He can "calleth those things which be not as though they were." Romans 4:17-18.
Ephesians 2:10 For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them.
Ephesians 1:3-4 Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who hath blessed us with all spiritual blessings in heavenly places in Christ: 4 According as he hath chosen us in him before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy and without blame before him in love:
Hello Jessica: It sounds like you have been a really good person all your life, although I'm not sure what kind of "social justice" you have been an advocate/activists for, but I'm sure you have done your best to help people. I understand you now want Justise from God for this terrible wrong that has been done to you. First, I'd like to ask: do you BELIEVE in God and Jesus only, or are you a forgiven, justified, regenerated, new birth child of God because you have repented to Jesus and Jesus only and accepted Christ as your Savior? If not please read the book of John and 1st, 2nd, 3rd Peter and pray and ask Jesus into your heart. If you have never done this, if you "believe" in God because of the denomination you in and believe a doctrine, which doesn't teach a one-on-one relationship with Jesus Christ then I can understand why this prayer has not been answered answered for you, however, if you are a true child of God, you must trust Him to handle this situation in His time and His way. By fretting over this situation you are not allowing God to have His way. It is a sign to Him that you don't trust Him to take care of this for you. I'd like to give you three scriptures that I hope will help you besides the books I mentioned above.
Delight thyself also in the LORD; and he shall give thee the desires of thine heart.
( Psalm 37:4).
I tell you that he will avenge them speedily. Nevertheless when the Son of man cometh, shall he find faith on the earth?
( Luke 18:8).
The issue of our heart relates to our affections and the ownership of such. When we are crucified with Christ ( Galatians 2:20) His life takes over and our vessel (body) becomes His tabernacle where the Spirit dwells. Since the Lord is eternal; along with the spirit in which God has created us we perceive these things ( Ecclesiastes 3:11). Whether in the body or out of it we are part of Christ's Body and we shall stand in His presence; we are already "seated in heavenly places" ( Ephesians 2:6).
Such affections draw us close to our brothers and sisters in the faith; and indeed we are COMMANDED to love one another; both from the Gospels and later quotes from John ( John 15:12; 1 John 3:23). This should be a springboard for time; money and effort to be poured out for the ministries and missions of the church and unity among the brethren. Agape love is the only love which can love anyone unconditionally; and therefore it also extends to the lost who we are commissioned to reach.
Often people complicate things when it comes to relationships; prayer certainly is helpful as I have seen personally a brother finding his wife to be 2 days after praying to find someone; along with another missionary friend of mine from many years ago when overseas. Still; there are some things which may not come to fruition until the Lord returns (primarily finding justice on the earth in places which have for a long time now featured persecution). Since we have a NEW heart; however we can find joy in seeing others being blessed; and seeing people come to faith even during times when we are struggling in our lives.
We often look at Christ's death as the ultimate love; but let us not forget His whole ministry especially toward His Disciples.
You are giving a great highlight about JESUS's work, and quoted John 10:16, that says: Other sheep I have, which are not of this fold (the Gentiles): them also I MUST bring, and they shall hear my voice; and there shall be one fold, and one shepherd. In my vision, JESUS was speaking of His Universal work bringing the Gentile people to salvation according the plan of GOD the Father in to create one Universal fold and one Universal Shepherd.
There is an wonderful and wise interpretation of Paul Apostle, saying to the Church of Ephesians 2:12-18
12 That at that time ye were without Christ, being aliens from the commonwealth of Israel, and strangers from the covenants of promise, having no hope, and without GOD in the world:
13 But NOW in Christ Jesus ye who sometimes were far off are made nigh by the blood of Christ.
14 For He is our peace, who hath MADE BOTH ONE, and hath BROKEN DOWN the middle wall of partition between us;
15 Having abolished in His flesh the enmity, even the Law of commandments contained in ordinances; for to make in Himself of twain one new man, so making peace;
16 And that He might reconcile both unto GOD in one body by the cross, having slain the enmity thereby:
17 And came and preached peace to you which were afar off (the Gentiles), and to them that were nigh(the Jews).
18 For through Him we both have access by one Spirit unto the Father. - Hallelujaaaah!!!
I believe in the trinity doctrine, and believe it is vital in understand much of scripture.
However, no doctrine should cause you to hate your Brothern. I have not seen hatred towards non trinity believers on this site.
However, hating a false doctrine is another or thing.
There is doctrine like the trinity that causes division and to be truthful I have seen more people being chased down that hold the view than those that don't hold it.
If NOT holding the trinity view is not a salvation issue, then HOLDING the trinity view is also NOT a salvation issue.
Has either of the views consumed you?
Are you treating people the way you are asking to be treated?
If one feels discussing it is pushing it, and you engage in it by support from afar, or directly, are not you also guilty of pushing it?
Have we been moved off our purpose and as a body what we have been called to do?
Why don't we display the same energy when calling out sin such as abortion, same sex marriage, Partiality, "inside and outside the Church"?
What light is being displayed debating translations but yet refuse to spend your time with whatever translation you use to display the Gospel as it is put on the back burner.
We seem to spend a lot of time desiring vain glory, back slapping and display and at times shunning rather than edifying.
Ephesians 2:10 says, "For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them. Are we doing that?
There is plenty of scripture to use to examine ourselves and there is certainly one word that we should all have for one another and that is Love.
Great discussion Brethren! Salvation only through faith by grace in the gospel of the LORD JESUS CHRIST. Then our works shows our salvation. Ephesians 2:10 as well as many other verses.
GOD to shine HIS face on all who trust and believe in HIM.
And I will put my spirit within you, "AND CAUSE" you to walk in my statutes, and ye shall keep my judgments, and do them.
Ezekiel 36:27.
The apostle Paul says that "for we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus" ( Ephesians 2:10). The word "workmanship" means "that which is made, a work of art." It refers to a "masterpiece." What Paul's saying is that all God's children are His masterpieces.
Philippians 2:13 For it is God which worketh in you both to will and to do of his good pleasure.
Dead Works.
In the Bible the phrase "dead works" is found in the book of Hebrews.
Hebrews 6:1-3.
"Repentance from dead works".
Repentance means to change the way we think. We need to change the way we think about dead works.
From the outside looking in we can't tell the difference between dead works and good works. They can look very much the same outwardly. They can be the same works, but they have different motives.
Praying can be a dead or good work.
Attending church can be a dead or good work.
Reading the Bible can be a dead or good work.
Telling others about Jesus can be a dead or good work.
That's why Jesus said what he said in Matthew 7:22-23.
Prophesying, casting out demons, performing miracles in the name of Jesus are all outwardly good things. But Jesus will reject "many" who do those things. Why? Because their hearts are wrong. These people have the wrong motivations for the things they do.
Dead works are any attempt to find favor, earn acceptance or be made righteous before God by one's own effort, ability or willpower.
Religion puts the emphasis on doing right. In contrast, Jesus and the apostles put the emphasis on believing right, because when we believe right we will naturally do right as a consequence.
If we can't tell outwardly, then how do we know what a good work is?
I often hear anti-works messages quoting Ephesians 2:8-9, but they leave out the very next verse 10 which says:
"For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them." Ephesians 2:10 KJV
We were created to do good works, but some like to shame others and claim that doing good works is bad because they assume it somehow takes away from grace, or assume effort is bad, assume there's instructions against it. Then oddly, they don't shame bad works though. They just say being bad is fine because its covered by grace, even if done intentionally, even if to harm others to the maximum degree, with no limits apparently, even blaspheming the holy spirit?, contrary to the scriptures. Someone has to ignore so many scriptures in the Bible to arrive at this conclusion and to massively cherry pick, like plucking out Eph 2, 8-9, but ignoring 10, ignoring James 2:17.
"Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven." Matthew 5:16 KJV
Jesus said this. But this is like kryptonite to the anti-works group. They'd rather it say let your darkness shine that they may see your bad works, then they'd be ok with it?
Obviously satan is behind the distorting of the truth. He always twists everything to deceive people to believe the opposite is true. Imagine being a Christian and truly believing that its bad to follow Christ. Yet, I've seen comments even on this forum where people sometimes say this. We must be on our guard so we can discern truth from lies. 1 Peter 5:8
I feel led to post this info to counter anyone who may be indoctrinated by the false teachings. The best remedy is to read the Bible, not cherry pick. I don't know how anyone can read the entire Bible and come to the conclusion that pleasing God is bad, and disobeying Him is good. No one should expect to be saved if they are not even following Christ- not a Christian.
Nice to see you are continuing with God's attributes (looks like you made a little typo in the last sentence...)
Interesting comment from Acts as to how Christ secured our peace through His sufferings. No one likes to suffer (at least of sound mind); but of course many verses show how we are to suffer for His Name's sake and go through persecution in this life along with gaining family and eternal relationships. Other verses come to mind such as perfect love casting out fear; and concepts such as the fact that there is no peace for the wicked; so the loving thing of course is to warn sinners that they are in enmity with God because of sin and that they must be redeemed through His atonement to have peace with their Creator.
Knowing the end from the beginning allowed Christ to have peace which He offers to us. Knowing that when our labors cease there is an end to suffering; and a reuniting with other believers after the Rapture (and in our transitional state after death should He tarry) should give us encouragement. Knowing that now we are seated in heavenly places ( Ephesians 2:6) is a present reality. And finally knowing that He will come to reign and rule with an iron rod yet perfectly justly in His judgments and the restored Millennium earth and beyond into eternity once Satan is bound and then judged also gives us hope with the restoration of all creation from this present misery.
Thanks for being faithful in continuing all this stuff. I have something that happened yesterday that I'd like to share in my next post; Lord willing. BTW did pray on your home issue; hope there is something good to report soon.
You stated, "The Old Testament is the foundation; the NT builds on that foundation.
Testament means covenant.
Here I will highlight some verses in Hebrews 9:1-28.
8) The Holy Ghost this signifying, that the way into the holiest of all was not yet made manifest, while as the first tabernacle was yet standing:
9) Which was a figure for the time then present, in which were offered both gifts and sacrifices, that could not make him that did the service perfect, as pertaining to the conscience;
10) Which stood only in meats and drinks, and divers washings, and carnal ordinances, imposed on them until the time of reformation.
11) But Christ being come an high priest of good things to come, by a greater and more perfect tabernacle, not made with hands, that is to say, not of this building;
23) It was therefore necessary that the patterns of things in the heavens should be purified with these; but the heavenly things themselves with better sacrifices than these.
24) For Christ is not entered into the holy places made with hands, which are the figures of the true; but into heaven itself, now to appear in the presence of God for us:
Verse 11 says, "not made with hands, that is to say, not of this building.
I will use that verse to springboard us onto the foundation which we build on that was prophesied in the OT but was rejected because of Israel blindness.
Isaiah 8:14
1 Peter 2:6-8
1 Corinthians 3:11
Ephesians 2:20
Romans 9:31-33.
When a building is being erected the corner stone is the first stone layed and where everything is squared and leveled.
Those who was saved in the OT also rested on this foundation.
God chose Israel for a unique purpose. He wanted, and so He created a nation through Abraham, in order to preserve through them the faith to the true God until the Savior appears on earth. At that point their mission as a nation ended and the church took in charge. In the church all nations and people all over the world are included, including Hebrews, that little remnant that accepted and still accepting Christ. The purpose of the church is very different from that of Israel's. We have to bring the gospel of salvation to all people all over the world, that was not what Israel was expected to do, it wasn't their mission. So who is God's chosen people? Both, for different reasons. Israel for bringing the Savior to the world and the church for bringing Him all over the world. But we must know that Israel 's mission has ended 2th years ago and it is now the church that has a mission. If Israel had accepted Christ they would have been the most honourable and important nation in the church, but they didn't and they have been cut off the olive tree. But God preserves them for a reason. Because He knows that under the pressure of antichrist they will turn to Him that they crucified and so they will be saved at the end. But we must know that they are not saved now (neither for the past 2 th years) and if they end their lives in sin they will not go to Heaven. I don't know how God is going to judge them, according to their faith or according to their works/conscience? ( Romans 2:11-26). But it is going to be really tough for them in the Judgement for as long as they are not receiving Christ as their Savior.
Ephesians 2:3-14, "Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who hath blessed us with all spiritual blessings in heavenly places in Christ: According as he hath chosen us in him before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy and without blame before him in love:Having predestinated us unto the adoption .."
GOD bless all who frequent this site to learn more of our LORD KING and SAVIOR JESUS CHRIST.
May we all be blessed and grow in the LORD, so we may be used to minister to others and give glory to our GOD. Galatians 2:20; Ephesians 2:10; Titus 2:11-14
We can only know our sinfulness through scripture and prayer. GOD desires us to be spiritually clean and walking in HIS word and commandments. May we be obedient and faithful in our walk with CHRIST that the lost may see our testimony and a door be open for sharing and declaring the gospel.
May we be faithful at all seasons. Merry CHRISTMAS to all the saints. Let's be open to the urging of the HOLY SPIRIT in our worship, by declaring the gospel of the LORD JESUS CHRIST unto whom-so-ever GOD brings before us.
Numbers 6:
24 The LORD bless thee, and keep thee:
25 The LORD make his face shine upon thee, and be gracious unto thee:
Luke 2
10 And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people.
11 For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord.
Ephesians 2:
8 For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God:
9 Not of works, lest any man should boast.
Romans 10
9 That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved.
10 For with the heart man believeth unto righteousness; and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation.
I have much to work on in my life before my SAVIOR comes. I am saved by the blood of the LAMB by grace through faith it is a gift I received from my CHRIST. Ephesians 2: 8, 9. I must remember to daily put on my armor of GOD Ephesians 6:10-18; and that I am a new creature. 2 Corinthians 5:17
I will daily pray for those in authority, for the lost, back slidden, and for the brethren in the field planting and watering the seed, waiting for the increase from the LORD.
I will give; as I have been blessed and praise HIS name.
Thank YOU FATHER for this wonderful time we have to serve, and glorify YOU. Bless the peace needed in Jerusalem; thank YOU for YOUR word never returning void when we go out declaring YOUR truth.
Merry Christmas all!
Numbers 6:
26 The LORD lift up his countenance upon thee, and give thee peace.
Isaiah 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, Counsellor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace.
7 Of the increase of his government and peace there shall be no end, upon the throne of David, and upon his kingdom, to order it, and to establish it with judgment and with justice from henceforth even for ever. The zeal of the LORD of hosts will perform this.
Romans 8 declares us to be victors in Christ. In all we do, we must trust in HIS word to bring us through the trials and tribulations before us.
We should declare as the people declared on Exodus 24:7b
and they said, All that the LORD hath said will we do, and be obedient.
Our declaration should be attached to good works in HIS name, Ephesians 2:10.
I am writing this during the December 2023 Christmas season. May we all endeavor to worship the LORD JESUS CHRIST in all HIS glory and splendor. GOD to shine HIS glorious face on all who call on HIM in truth and in spirit.
GOD is praised when we carry out HIS full counsel.
Merry Christmas everyone and have a prosperous New Year in CHRIST Name.
There is absolutely no works to be done for Salvation in CHRIST. Ephesians 2:
8 For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God:
9 Not of works, lest any man should boast.
Water baptism is not a requirement of salvation. Romans 6:
3 Know ye not, that so many of us as were baptized into Jesus Christ were baptized into his death?
4 Therefore we are buried with him by baptism into death: that like as Christ was raised up from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life.
5 For if we have been planted together in the likeness of his death, we shall be also in the likeness of his resurrection:
When we are Scripturally born again we have been made justified in CHRIST, no longer bound for hell or the lake of fire. We are then called to do the work of the LORD which is called sanctification. v10 of Ephesians 2.
Salvation is only by faith alone, in the shed blood alone, of the LORD JESUS CHRIST.
May GOD open the hearts of all unto the sufficiency of the Gospel of the LORD JESUS CHRIST.
Merry Christmas to all on this forum, and a happy and prosperous New Year.
I won't give details of that here, but the turning away was gradual & what God had first meant to me had gone completely. Did I not have any conviction by the Spirit of sin & estrangement from God? I knew what I was doing, but No, I felt nothing of the Spirit's Work. What was I at that time? Was I ever saved & temporarily fallen away? Or maybe, I was never saved, just giving a Christian persona to family & others? I couldn't tell for sure at that time - but I could say now, that God knew exactly what my state was. My own belief, was that I was never saved (unlike in your testimony, where I understand that you both believed that you were in a saved state then falling into continual sin). Why I believe that I wasn't saved, was simply because I had no sense of guilt, of consequences of sin, etc. which only the Spirit of God can give to God's child. Even with the prayers of my father & the Church, I continued in a sinful lifestyle, till the time that God would step in, bringing in deep conviction & the certainty of Hell. And in God's mysterious Ways, it initially took an unsaved bisexual 'friend' whom God used to trigger my mind & spirit to my own sin & wickedness (he certainly wasn't a Christian - just a trigger). And btw, I have always been a heterosexual, only that acquaintance of mine 'leaned' the other way.
I believe that if I died in that state of sin, I would be lost in Hell. "But God, Who is rich in Mercy" ( Ephesians 2:4-6), at the right time, brought me to my senses, & the wretchedness of my sins came before me. I could do nothing else but weep hard & long for my sins - and instantly knowing & experiencing His glorious Salvation only through His Son, with great release & joy. You shared that you have never turned away from the Lord since re-birth & you never will. I too, by the Spirit's enabling have stayed true to Him, even having been tested in the face of the enemies of the Cross while in ministry (I won't go into that here). To Page 3.
c. "How have we been justified? Christ has paid the full penalty, eternal DEATH for the sins of those He is saving by being perfectly faithful in taking upon Himself all of the sins of each of His Elect". John 3:16 states that God so loved the world (not just the Elect), that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish". Here, I understand that God's Love extends to both the Elect & non-Elect (the world), but of those in the World who place their trust in Him (proving they're the Elect of God), will not go the way of eternal damnation, but of eternal life.
d. Did Christ die "an eternal death" for us? Not sure if you meant that Christ died & saved us from the eternal death that we were destined for.
Part 4: you referred to the Galatians' passages. The reason for Paul's reference to the Law, was because of the Judaizers (Jewish Christians - Galatians 1:7) who taught those in the Galatia region, that obedience to the Law was necessary (Works) for salvation & Paul's Gospel was defective (i.e. justification by faith alone plus nothing, not even the Mosaic Law).
So from here we begin to separate in our understanding of this Doctrine of Salvation. You have asked the question, "So what is a good WORK? Are our BELIEF, our FAITH, our REPENTENCE good WORKS? The best definition of a "good WORK", I believe, is "any obedience to the COMMANDMENTS of God, the LAW of God". Of course you believe that not only obedience to the Law of God is a 'Good Work', but also belief, faith, & repentance are. 2 Thessalonians 1:11 does not speak of Faith as a work towards salvation, but of having Faith that works in the believer's life & Paul prayed 'for a powerful faith in them'.
Ephesians 2:8,9 is actually a great example of a God-given Faith in Salvation, which is not included in a works-based salvation. Faith is God's Gift to believe - leading to salvation.
Galatians 2:16 Knowing that a man is not justified by the WORKS of the law, but by the faith of Jesus Christ, even we have believed in Jesus Christ, that we might be justified by the faith of Christ, and not by the WORKS of the law: for by the works of the law shall no flesh be justified.
Galatians 3:1,2 O foolish Galatians, who hath bewitched you, that ye should not obey the truth, before whose eyes Jesus Christ hath been evidently set forth, crucified among you? This only would I learn of you, Received ye the Spirit by the WORKS OF THE LAW, or by the hearing of faith{Christ's faith}?
Galatians 3:10 For as many as are of the WORKS OF THE LAW are under the CURSE: for it is written, CURSED is every one that continueth not in all things which are written in the book of the law to do them.
In these verses God is making it crystal clear that if we are following a gospel that is conditioned upon our good WORKS, we are CURSED.
So what is a good WORK? Are our BELIEF, our FAITH, our REPENTENCE good WORKS? The best definition of a "good WORK", I believe, is "any obedience to the COMMANDMENTS of God, the LAW of God". Are we not COMMANDED to Believe and to have FAITH in Christ; are these not "gifts" of God and part and parcel of Salvation?
2 Thessalonians 1:11 Wherefore also we pray always for you, that our God would count you worthy of this calling, and fulfil all the good pleasure of his goodness, and the WORK OF FAITH with power:
Ephesians 2:8,9 For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: Not of works, lest any man should boast.
Phil 2:12,13 Wherefore, my beloved, as ye have always obeyed, not as in my presence only, but now much more in my absence, WORK out your own salvation with fear and trembling. For it is GOD WHICH WORKETH in you both to will and to do of his good pleasure.
Our Faith, Belief, Repentance are WORKS and a RESULT and EVIDENCE of, not REQUIREMENTS for, Salvation.
In today's society; we have found a way to extricate our minds from within when it comes to the subject of slavery. What happened hundreds of years ago is someone else's problem or said to be our fault by default as to our race. Closer to home now; of course is the continuing servitude particularly of the sex trade today and that brings attention to the revenue of such a trade.
That; of course comes from those who would exploit such an industry who themselves in actuality are slaves to sin.
Revelation makes it clear; unfortunately that slaves will exist in the end times will exist ( Rev. 6:15). At that time they will be clumped together with all those who attempt to hide from God.
Christ has redeemed us from our state of hopelessness and given us a new life. We have turned from Satan as our master to the Living God ( Ephesians 2:2). A truly redeemed child of God can read a passage such as Isaiah 66:24 and understand how they themselves were an abhorrence in their lost; sinful state. To know that we were under His wrath we proclaim the salvation message. Those who are condemned already ( John 3:18) are not known to us immediately; eventually it will be clear who is saved and who isn't at least by judgment Day. Such amazing love of Christ should motivate us to share the Gospel with others.
I am convinced one reason more people aren't sharing with much conviction is because they have become dumbed down to just how wicked they were; forgotten what they were saved from or in the worst case scenario are really not saved at all but following a form of godliness but denying the power thereof ( 2 Tim. 3:5). It is sobering to remind ourselves that as believers that scripture warns us to stay AWAY from such people.
Satan; I always say is an equal opportunity destroyer. He will take any sin; as seemingly innocuous as gossip and turn it into a full scale conflagration (see warnings in James 3:6). Only Christ frees us from slavery.
Good evening! Part of the interpretation of revelation is believing that our lives our written in heaven while we live in earth. So we live with hope. "If ye then be risen with Christ, seek those things which are above, where Christ sitteth on the right hand of God. Set your affections on things above, not on things of the earth. For ye are dead, and your life is hid with Christ in God."
Colossians 3:1-3
"And has raised us up together, and made us sit in heavenly places in Christ Jesus." Ephesians 2:26
So then, in part, this day is spoken of while the work of Christ continues in earthen vessels.
"To him that overcometh will I grant to sit with me in my throne, even as I also overcame, am am set down with my Father in his throne." Revelation 3:21
Thank you, Jesus shamed the leaders of Jerusalem about traditions, Matthew 15:3 and we are told in Colossians 2:8. My understanding is when we believe in our heart that Jesus is the Son of God and the only way to salvation we are justified by God's grace, Romans 3:24 and being baptized is being obedient to God's word, being justified freely by his grace through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus: We then start the road to sanctification by the washing of regeneration and renewing of the Holy Ghost, Titus 3:5.
Jesus Christ has done everything necessary for our salvation and all we do we do in is name including being baptized, Colossians 3:17. He paid the penalty that our sins deserved by His sacrificial death on the cross. His death satisfied God's justice and turned away His wrath from us. God calls us but we must answer we must believe and be obedient to Him to be chosen, Matthew 22:14 For many are called, but few are chosen.
When we are baptized in the Name of Jesus we have put on Christ, Galatians 3:27. Being baptized is obedience, Ephesians 2:10 2 Thessalonians 1:8, every believer who has opportunity will be baptized in obedience to the Lord Jesus Christ. Baptism is the result of salvation, not the means to it.
Our obedience strengthens our faith, obedience shows our love for God, and our obedience to God's word is essential and it is not works. Those who are obedient are imitators of Christ and are willingly submitting to the authority, His will, and the word of God.
God bless,
RLW
I would like to expound a little more on your statement saying, "you know how to get saved and it's hard for you because you're scared and nervous about it"
Here's why I asked you for clarity on that statement..
There's some hold to a legalistic viewpoint when coming to God for salvation.
In the Old testament Israel was given the Law and commandments the showed them and the world "Including us" we all have a fallen nature and is need of a savior.
As did the Israelites in the old testament they feared approaching God under that ministry of condemnation.
However, to them and us God provided a savior, our Lord Jesus Christ!
There is no need to fear, we have found mercy in Christ.
Ephesians 2:4-9.
We can now approach the throne of grace and there is no need of fear!
Hebrews 10:19-23 states, "Having therefore, brethren, boldness to enter into the holiest by the blood of Jesus,
By a new and living way, which he hath consecrated for us, through the veil, that is to say, his flesh;
And having an high priest over the house of God;
Let us draw near with a true heart in full assurance of faith, having our hearts sprinkled from an evil conscience, and our bodies washed with pure water.
Let us hold fast the profession of our faith without wavering; (for he is faithful that promised;)
Romans 10:9 states "That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved.
We confess that are a sinner, turn our hearts to God for his grace and mercy and he is faithful to forgive us.
"All that the Father giveth me shall come to me; and him that cometh to me I will in no wise cast out"
John 6:37.
God bless you Gideon.
Hey brother just one last thing to consider.
Daniel 9:24-27, in this prophecy, there are seventy weeks or 490 years determined unto Daniel's people and the holy city to finish the transgression, and to make an end of sins, and to make reconciliation for iniquity, and to bring in everlasting righteousness, and to seal up the vision and prophecy, and to anoint the most Holy.
Have these 6 things been fulfilled in Jesus the Messiah, and the judgment of it carried out in 70 AD? If so, all of this prophecy has been fulfilled in the past.
1 To finish the transgression. To break or violate, as a law, civil or moral; the act of transgressing. Psalms 32:1 Isaiah 53:5-11 Romans 4:14-15 Galatians 3:18-19 Hebrews 9:14-15.
2 To make an end to sins. Whosoever committeth sin transgresseth also the law: for sin is the transgression of the law. Matthew 1:21 Hebrews 10:8-11 John 1:29 1 Corinthians 15:3 1 John 3:5 Psalm 32:1 Romans 3:21-26 Romans 8:3.
3 To make reconciliation for iniquity. Reconciliation is an element of salvation that refers to the results of the atonement. Colossians 1:20-22 Isaiah 53:6 Isaiah 53:11 Romans 5:11 Ephesians 2:16 Titus 2:14 2 Corinthians 5:18-19.
4 To bring in everlasting righteousness. In conformity to the demands of the covenant and according to God's will. Isaiah 61:10-11 Romans 3:21-26 Romans 5:17-21 2 Corinthians 5:21 1 Peter 2:24.
5 To seal up the vision and prophecy. The greatest prediction, which runs like a golden thread through the whole contents of the Old Testament, is that regarding the coming and work of the Messiah, Jesus. Daniel 9:23 Matthew 11:11-15 Mark 1:14-15 John 5:36-40 John 6:27 Acts 3:18.
6 To anoint the most holy. The high priest went into the holy of holies once a year with the blood of a sacrificed bull. Jesus our high priest with His own blood anointed the most holy not made with hands once and for all, forever. Hebrews 9:6-14.
Jesus said it in John 19:28-30.
God bless,
RLW
Completing my example 1 of prayer for someone to be saved; as I repeatedly nag it isn't something we find in scripture. Paul when on trial went as close as saying he wished to see someone saved ( Acts 26:28 with Agrippa). Just as we once were before the light broke through we were once blinded to the truth; and therefore shouldn't expect any efforts no matter how sincere or even faith filled will make one iota of difference in bringing someone to salvation. That is a really harsh statement at face value.
We know for a fact it won't work with someone already physically deceased; and of course that would be a sin or necromancy and useless according to Hebrews 9:27. But we were once "dead in sin" ( Ephesians 2:13). It is easy as a true believer to be perplexed how people can have multiple and long term opportunities to hear the Gospel and still reject it. What is worse is those who go along and perhaps make a confession but are insincere in their hearts; thus never producing "good fruit". We know that if we hear the truth it is of God as our spirit testifies with His Spirit that we are children of God. ( Romans 8:16).
The rest of the world is content that Christ is a good teacher or Prophet as that is all they can see; His humanity apart from Divinity as a member of the Godhead.
I will leave this topic with a general statement. We should sow seeds with whoever we can; but not make an undo effort to spend an inordinate amount of time with those not open to the Gospel at the expense of the Great Commission at large.
As Jesus stated in comparison to our service to God we must hate those closest to us; which doesn't mean of course to abandon care as that makes us worse than an infidel. Our motivation for service must be to serve God always; and that has to be despite whether all those we care about come to Christ or not.
Part 1
Even though there is a distinction between the children of God and the children of the world the scripture says to be kind to all men. Galatians 6:10.
However, we're not all Brothern.
John 1:11-12 says "He came unto his own, and his own received him not.
But as many as received him, to them gave he power to become the "sons of God, even to them that believe on his name"
Jesus also said in Matthew 12:50 "For whosoever shall do the will of my Father which is in heaven, the same is my brother, and sister, and mother.
Ephesians 2:19 states Now therefore ye are no more strangers and foreigners, but fellow citizens with the saints, and of the household of God.
So, there is a clear distinction in scripture between God's children and those who haven't received him.
1 John 3:9-10 covers this well, "Whosoever is born of God doth not commit sin; for his seed remaineth in him: and he cannot sin, because he is born of God.
In this the children of God are manifest, and the children of the devil: whosoever doeth not righteousness is not of God, neither he that loveth not his brother.
"Sons of God" emphasizes a natural, internal relationship with God rather than an external adoption. Becoming God's children involves a real change and transformation, not just a change in title or position. We partake in the divine nature.
All people are not naturally God's children. We must be born again through faith in Christ to become God's children.
This separates us from Adam.
We are now joint heirs with Christ. Romans 8:14-17 "For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, they are the sons of God.
For ye have not received the spirit of bondage again to fear; but ye have received the Spirit of adoption, whereby we cry, Abba, Father. The Spirit itself beareth witness with our spirit, that we are the children of God:
And if children, then heirs; heirs of God, and joint-heirs with Christ; if so be that we suffer with him, that we may be also glorified together.
See part 2
God's eternal purpose
Jesus the Messiah/Christ God's only begotten Son is the purpose, I do not know if I am reading your question correctly, may you and others have more or different understandings.
1 Corinthians 2:16 tells us we have the mind of Christ, but no one can know the mind of God. 2 Peter 3:18 tells us to grow in grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus. All began with Jesus; Jesus is the beginning of God's plan. Isaiah 45:18 Isaiah 46:8-10 God and there is none like Him, He declared the end from the beginning His counsel (His purpose and plan by His will) shall stand and God will do all His pleasure, Psalms 33:11.
God is not in our time the end of His plan is as the beginning God's plan was completed when He made it, we have the Bible, and with the guidance of the Holy Spirit His plan is made known to us as our time comes to be, as in Ephesians 1:10-12 to be the praise and glory to God.
God declared from the very beginnings of history, Acts 17:24-26 there is but one human race, we all are of the same blood, and in Jesus Christ we become brothers and sisters. In God's plan, it is finished, nothing will change. In God, it is finished already to Him who is from everlasting to everlasting, Psalms 90:2 and how He can "calleth those things which be not as though they were." Romans 4:17-18.
Ephesians 2:10 For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them.
Ephesians 1:3-4 Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who hath blessed us with all spiritual blessings in heavenly places in Christ: 4 According as he hath chosen us in him before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy and without blame before him in love:
God bless,
RLW
Mathew 6: 25-26, Romans 8:28, Ephesians 2:3-4
( Psalm 37:4).
I tell you that he will avenge them speedily. Nevertheless when the Son of man cometh, shall he find faith on the earth?
( Luke 18:8).
The issue of our heart relates to our affections and the ownership of such. When we are crucified with Christ ( Galatians 2:20) His life takes over and our vessel (body) becomes His tabernacle where the Spirit dwells. Since the Lord is eternal; along with the spirit in which God has created us we perceive these things ( Ecclesiastes 3:11). Whether in the body or out of it we are part of Christ's Body and we shall stand in His presence; we are already "seated in heavenly places" ( Ephesians 2:6).
Such affections draw us close to our brothers and sisters in the faith; and indeed we are COMMANDED to love one another; both from the Gospels and later quotes from John ( John 15:12; 1 John 3:23). This should be a springboard for time; money and effort to be poured out for the ministries and missions of the church and unity among the brethren. Agape love is the only love which can love anyone unconditionally; and therefore it also extends to the lost who we are commissioned to reach.
Often people complicate things when it comes to relationships; prayer certainly is helpful as I have seen personally a brother finding his wife to be 2 days after praying to find someone; along with another missionary friend of mine from many years ago when overseas. Still; there are some things which may not come to fruition until the Lord returns (primarily finding justice on the earth in places which have for a long time now featured persecution). Since we have a NEW heart; however we can find joy in seeing others being blessed; and seeing people come to faith even during times when we are struggling in our lives.
We often look at Christ's death as the ultimate love; but let us not forget His whole ministry especially toward His Disciples.
Justification.
Sanctification.
Glorification.
If you are a Christian, you are guaranteed all three steps (see Romans 8:29-30).
You are forever justified, you are being sanctified, and you will for sure be glorified.
1 Corinthians 6:11.
All three of these things are from God's grace, not because of anything you have done or will do to earn them. see Ephesians 2:8-9.
You cannot earn your justification, you cannot achieve your sanctification, and you cannot merit your glorification.
You can do nothing without Christ.
John 15:4-5.
Romans 3:10-24.
God bless and Good night.
Bennymkje
You are giving a great highlight about JESUS's work, and quoted John 10:16, that says: Other sheep I have, which are not of this fold (the Gentiles): them also I MUST bring, and they shall hear my voice; and there shall be one fold, and one shepherd. In my vision, JESUS was speaking of His Universal work bringing the Gentile people to salvation according the plan of GOD the Father in to create one Universal fold and one Universal Shepherd.
There is an wonderful and wise interpretation of Paul Apostle, saying to the Church of Ephesians 2:12-18
12 That at that time ye were without Christ, being aliens from the commonwealth of Israel, and strangers from the covenants of promise, having no hope, and without GOD in the world:
13 But NOW in Christ Jesus ye who sometimes were far off are made nigh by the blood of Christ.
14 For He is our peace, who hath MADE BOTH ONE, and hath BROKEN DOWN the middle wall of partition between us;
15 Having abolished in His flesh the enmity, even the Law of commandments contained in ordinances; for to make in Himself of twain one new man, so making peace;
16 And that He might reconcile both unto GOD in one body by the cross, having slain the enmity thereby:
17 And came and preached peace to you which were afar off (the Gentiles), and to them that were nigh(the Jews).
18 For through Him we both have access by one Spirit unto the Father. - Hallelujaaaah!!!
I believe in the trinity doctrine, and believe it is vital in understand much of scripture.
However, no doctrine should cause you to hate your Brothern. I have not seen hatred towards non trinity believers on this site.
However, hating a false doctrine is another or thing.
There is doctrine like the trinity that causes division and to be truthful I have seen more people being chased down that hold the view than those that don't hold it.
If NOT holding the trinity view is not a salvation issue, then HOLDING the trinity view is also NOT a salvation issue.
Has either of the views consumed you?
Are you treating people the way you are asking to be treated?
If one feels discussing it is pushing it, and you engage in it by support from afar, or directly, are not you also guilty of pushing it?
Have we been moved off our purpose and as a body what we have been called to do?
Why don't we display the same energy when calling out sin such as abortion, same sex marriage, Partiality, "inside and outside the Church"?
What light is being displayed debating translations but yet refuse to spend your time with whatever translation you use to display the Gospel as it is put on the back burner.
We seem to spend a lot of time desiring vain glory, back slapping and display and at times shunning rather than edifying.
Ephesians 2:10 says, "For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them. Are we doing that?
There is plenty of scripture to use to examine ourselves and there is certainly one word that we should all have for one another and that is Love.
God bless.
GOD to shine HIS face on all who trust and believe in HIM.
January 16, 2024
Part 1
And I will put my spirit within you, "AND CAUSE" you to walk in my statutes, and ye shall keep my judgments, and do them.
Ezekiel 36:27.
The apostle Paul says that "for we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus" ( Ephesians 2:10). The word "workmanship" means "that which is made, a work of art." It refers to a "masterpiece." What Paul's saying is that all God's children are His masterpieces.
Philippians 2:13 For it is God which worketh in you both to will and to do of his good pleasure.
Dead Works.
In the Bible the phrase "dead works" is found in the book of Hebrews.
Hebrews 6:1-3.
"Repentance from dead works".
Repentance means to change the way we think. We need to change the way we think about dead works.
From the outside looking in we can't tell the difference between dead works and good works. They can look very much the same outwardly. They can be the same works, but they have different motives.
Praying can be a dead or good work.
Attending church can be a dead or good work.
Reading the Bible can be a dead or good work.
Telling others about Jesus can be a dead or good work.
That's why Jesus said what he said in Matthew 7:22-23.
Prophesying, casting out demons, performing miracles in the name of Jesus are all outwardly good things. But Jesus will reject "many" who do those things. Why? Because their hearts are wrong. These people have the wrong motivations for the things they do.
Dead works are any attempt to find favor, earn acceptance or be made righteous before God by one's own effort, ability or willpower.
Religion puts the emphasis on doing right. In contrast, Jesus and the apostles put the emphasis on believing right, because when we believe right we will naturally do right as a consequence.
If we can't tell outwardly, then how do we know what a good work is?
See part 2.
"For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them." Ephesians 2:10 KJV
We were created to do good works, but some like to shame others and claim that doing good works is bad because they assume it somehow takes away from grace, or assume effort is bad, assume there's instructions against it. Then oddly, they don't shame bad works though. They just say being bad is fine because its covered by grace, even if done intentionally, even if to harm others to the maximum degree, with no limits apparently, even blaspheming the holy spirit?, contrary to the scriptures. Someone has to ignore so many scriptures in the Bible to arrive at this conclusion and to massively cherry pick, like plucking out Eph 2, 8-9, but ignoring 10, ignoring James 2:17.
"Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven." Matthew 5:16 KJV
Jesus said this. But this is like kryptonite to the anti-works group. They'd rather it say let your darkness shine that they may see your bad works, then they'd be ok with it?
Obviously satan is behind the distorting of the truth. He always twists everything to deceive people to believe the opposite is true. Imagine being a Christian and truly believing that its bad to follow Christ. Yet, I've seen comments even on this forum where people sometimes say this. We must be on our guard so we can discern truth from lies. 1 Peter 5:8
I feel led to post this info to counter anyone who may be indoctrinated by the false teachings. The best remedy is to read the Bible, not cherry pick. I don't know how anyone can read the entire Bible and come to the conclusion that pleasing God is bad, and disobeying Him is good. No one should expect to be saved if they are not even following Christ- not a Christian.
Interesting comment from Acts as to how Christ secured our peace through His sufferings. No one likes to suffer (at least of sound mind); but of course many verses show how we are to suffer for His Name's sake and go through persecution in this life along with gaining family and eternal relationships. Other verses come to mind such as perfect love casting out fear; and concepts such as the fact that there is no peace for the wicked; so the loving thing of course is to warn sinners that they are in enmity with God because of sin and that they must be redeemed through His atonement to have peace with their Creator.
Knowing the end from the beginning allowed Christ to have peace which He offers to us. Knowing that when our labors cease there is an end to suffering; and a reuniting with other believers after the Rapture (and in our transitional state after death should He tarry) should give us encouragement. Knowing that now we are seated in heavenly places ( Ephesians 2:6) is a present reality. And finally knowing that He will come to reign and rule with an iron rod yet perfectly justly in His judgments and the restored Millennium earth and beyond into eternity once Satan is bound and then judged also gives us hope with the restoration of all creation from this present misery.
Thanks for being faithful in continuing all this stuff. I have something that happened yesterday that I'd like to share in my next post; Lord willing. BTW did pray on your home issue; hope there is something good to report soon.
Agape; RIch P
You stated, "The Old Testament is the foundation; the NT builds on that foundation.
Testament means covenant.
Here I will highlight some verses in Hebrews 9:1-28.
8) The Holy Ghost this signifying, that the way into the holiest of all was not yet made manifest, while as the first tabernacle was yet standing:
9) Which was a figure for the time then present, in which were offered both gifts and sacrifices, that could not make him that did the service perfect, as pertaining to the conscience;
10) Which stood only in meats and drinks, and divers washings, and carnal ordinances, imposed on them until the time of reformation.
11) But Christ being come an high priest of good things to come, by a greater and more perfect tabernacle, not made with hands, that is to say, not of this building;
23) It was therefore necessary that the patterns of things in the heavens should be purified with these; but the heavenly things themselves with better sacrifices than these.
24) For Christ is not entered into the holy places made with hands, which are the figures of the true; but into heaven itself, now to appear in the presence of God for us:
Verse 11 says, "not made with hands, that is to say, not of this building.
I will use that verse to springboard us onto the foundation which we build on that was prophesied in the OT but was rejected because of Israel blindness.
Isaiah 8:14
1 Peter 2:6-8
1 Corinthians 3:11
Ephesians 2:20
Romans 9:31-33.
When a building is being erected the corner stone is the first stone layed and where everything is squared and leveled.
Those who was saved in the OT also rested on this foundation.
God bless.
My opinion about Israel.
God chose Israel for a unique purpose. He wanted, and so He created a nation through Abraham, in order to preserve through them the faith to the true God until the Savior appears on earth. At that point their mission as a nation ended and the church took in charge. In the church all nations and people all over the world are included, including Hebrews, that little remnant that accepted and still accepting Christ. The purpose of the church is very different from that of Israel's. We have to bring the gospel of salvation to all people all over the world, that was not what Israel was expected to do, it wasn't their mission. So who is God's chosen people? Both, for different reasons. Israel for bringing the Savior to the world and the church for bringing Him all over the world. But we must know that Israel 's mission has ended 2th years ago and it is now the church that has a mission. If Israel had accepted Christ they would have been the most honourable and important nation in the church, but they didn't and they have been cut off the olive tree. But God preserves them for a reason. Because He knows that under the pressure of antichrist they will turn to Him that they crucified and so they will be saved at the end. But we must know that they are not saved now (neither for the past 2 th years) and if they end their lives in sin they will not go to Heaven. I don't know how God is going to judge them, according to their faith or according to their works/conscience? ( Romans 2:11-26). But it is going to be really tough for them in the Judgement for as long as they are not receiving Christ as their Savior.
Ephesians 2:3-14, "Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who hath blessed us with all spiritual blessings in heavenly places in Christ: According as he hath chosen us in him before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy and without blame before him in love:Having predestinated us unto the adoption .."
May we all be blessed and grow in the LORD, so we may be used to minister to others and give glory to our GOD. Galatians 2:20; Ephesians 2:10; Titus 2:11-14
Happy New Year to every one.
December 29, 2023
Ephesians 2: 4-9
May we all celebrate and worship our KING, the LORD JESUS CHRIST by serving HIM as scripture dictates us to do.
By prayer... 1 Timothy 2:1-4
By making disciples... Matthew 28:19, 20
To study ... 2 Timothy 2:15
To know the LORD.. 2 Timothy 3:16, 17
Any many more scriptures to help us to grow in HIM.
Merry Christmas to all the brethren, the LORD to shine HIS glorious face upon us.
December 25, 2023
May we be faithful at all seasons. Merry CHRISTMAS to all the saints. Let's be open to the urging of the HOLY SPIRIT in our worship, by declaring the gospel of the LORD JESUS CHRIST unto whom-so-ever GOD brings before us.
Numbers 6:
24 The LORD bless thee, and keep thee:
25 The LORD make his face shine upon thee, and be gracious unto thee:
Luke 2
10 And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people.
11 For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord.
Ephesians 2:
8 For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God:
9 Not of works, lest any man should boast.
Romans 10
9 That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved.
10 For with the heart man believeth unto righteousness; and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation.
December 24, 2023
Love to all CHRIST JESUS name!
I will daily pray for those in authority, for the lost, back slidden, and for the brethren in the field planting and watering the seed, waiting for the increase from the LORD.
I will give; as I have been blessed and praise HIS name.
Thank YOU FATHER for this wonderful time we have to serve, and glorify YOU. Bless the peace needed in Jerusalem; thank YOU for YOUR word never returning void when we go out declaring YOUR truth.
Merry Christmas all!
Numbers 6:
26 The LORD lift up his countenance upon thee, and give thee peace.
Isaiah 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, Counsellor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace.
7 Of the increase of his government and peace there shall be no end, upon the throne of David, and upon his kingdom, to order it, and to establish it with judgment and with justice from henceforth even for ever. The zeal of the LORD of hosts will perform this.
December 23, 2023
We should declare as the people declared on Exodus 24:7b
and they said, All that the LORD hath said will we do, and be obedient.
Our declaration should be attached to good works in HIS name, Ephesians 2:10.
I am writing this during the December 2023 Christmas season. May we all endeavor to worship the LORD JESUS CHRIST in all HIS glory and splendor. GOD to shine HIS glorious face on all who call on HIM in truth and in spirit.
GOD is praised when we carry out HIS full counsel.
Merry Christmas everyone and have a prosperous New Year in CHRIST Name.
8 For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God:
9 Not of works, lest any man should boast.
Water baptism is not a requirement of salvation. Romans 6:
3 Know ye not, that so many of us as were baptized into Jesus Christ were baptized into his death?
4 Therefore we are buried with him by baptism into death: that like as Christ was raised up from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life.
5 For if we have been planted together in the likeness of his death, we shall be also in the likeness of his resurrection:
When we are Scripturally born again we have been made justified in CHRIST, no longer bound for hell or the lake of fire. We are then called to do the work of the LORD which is called sanctification. v10 of Ephesians 2.
Salvation is only by faith alone, in the shed blood alone, of the LORD JESUS CHRIST.
May GOD open the hearts of all unto the sufficiency of the Gospel of the LORD JESUS CHRIST.
Merry Christmas to all on this forum, and a happy and prosperous New Year.
December 21, 2023
I won't give details of that here, but the turning away was gradual & what God had first meant to me had gone completely. Did I not have any conviction by the Spirit of sin & estrangement from God? I knew what I was doing, but No, I felt nothing of the Spirit's Work. What was I at that time? Was I ever saved & temporarily fallen away? Or maybe, I was never saved, just giving a Christian persona to family & others? I couldn't tell for sure at that time - but I could say now, that God knew exactly what my state was. My own belief, was that I was never saved (unlike in your testimony, where I understand that you both believed that you were in a saved state then falling into continual sin). Why I believe that I wasn't saved, was simply because I had no sense of guilt, of consequences of sin, etc. which only the Spirit of God can give to God's child. Even with the prayers of my father & the Church, I continued in a sinful lifestyle, till the time that God would step in, bringing in deep conviction & the certainty of Hell. And in God's mysterious Ways, it initially took an unsaved bisexual 'friend' whom God used to trigger my mind & spirit to my own sin & wickedness (he certainly wasn't a Christian - just a trigger). And btw, I have always been a heterosexual, only that acquaintance of mine 'leaned' the other way.
I believe that if I died in that state of sin, I would be lost in Hell. "But God, Who is rich in Mercy" ( Ephesians 2:4-6), at the right time, brought me to my senses, & the wretchedness of my sins came before me. I could do nothing else but weep hard & long for my sins - and instantly knowing & experiencing His glorious Salvation only through His Son, with great release & joy. You shared that you have never turned away from the Lord since re-birth & you never will. I too, by the Spirit's enabling have stayed true to Him, even having been tested in the face of the enemies of the Cross while in ministry (I won't go into that here). To Page 3.
c. "How have we been justified? Christ has paid the full penalty, eternal DEATH for the sins of those He is saving by being perfectly faithful in taking upon Himself all of the sins of each of His Elect". John 3:16 states that God so loved the world (not just the Elect), that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish". Here, I understand that God's Love extends to both the Elect & non-Elect (the world), but of those in the World who place their trust in Him (proving they're the Elect of God), will not go the way of eternal damnation, but of eternal life.
d. Did Christ die "an eternal death" for us? Not sure if you meant that Christ died & saved us from the eternal death that we were destined for.
Part 4: you referred to the Galatians' passages. The reason for Paul's reference to the Law, was because of the Judaizers (Jewish Christians - Galatians 1:7) who taught those in the Galatia region, that obedience to the Law was necessary (Works) for salvation & Paul's Gospel was defective (i.e. justification by faith alone plus nothing, not even the Mosaic Law).
So from here we begin to separate in our understanding of this Doctrine of Salvation. You have asked the question, "So what is a good WORK? Are our BELIEF, our FAITH, our REPENTENCE good WORKS? The best definition of a "good WORK", I believe, is "any obedience to the COMMANDMENTS of God, the LAW of God". Of course you believe that not only obedience to the Law of God is a 'Good Work', but also belief, faith, & repentance are. 2 Thessalonians 1:11 does not speak of Faith as a work towards salvation, but of having Faith that works in the believer's life & Paul prayed 'for a powerful faith in them'.
Ephesians 2:8,9 is actually a great example of a God-given Faith in Salvation, which is not included in a works-based salvation. Faith is God's Gift to believe - leading to salvation.
Galatians 2:16 Knowing that a man is not justified by the WORKS of the law, but by the faith of Jesus Christ, even we have believed in Jesus Christ, that we might be justified by the faith of Christ, and not by the WORKS of the law: for by the works of the law shall no flesh be justified.
Galatians 3:1,2 O foolish Galatians, who hath bewitched you, that ye should not obey the truth, before whose eyes Jesus Christ hath been evidently set forth, crucified among you? This only would I learn of you, Received ye the Spirit by the WORKS OF THE LAW, or by the hearing of faith{Christ's faith}?
Galatians 3:10 For as many as are of the WORKS OF THE LAW are under the CURSE: for it is written, CURSED is every one that continueth not in all things which are written in the book of the law to do them.
In these verses God is making it crystal clear that if we are following a gospel that is conditioned upon our good WORKS, we are CURSED.
So what is a good WORK? Are our BELIEF, our FAITH, our REPENTENCE good WORKS? The best definition of a "good WORK", I believe, is "any obedience to the COMMANDMENTS of God, the LAW of God". Are we not COMMANDED to Believe and to have FAITH in Christ; are these not "gifts" of God and part and parcel of Salvation?
2 Thessalonians 1:11 Wherefore also we pray always for you, that our God would count you worthy of this calling, and fulfil all the good pleasure of his goodness, and the WORK OF FAITH with power:
Ephesians 2:8,9 For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: Not of works, lest any man should boast.
Phil 2:12,13 Wherefore, my beloved, as ye have always obeyed, not as in my presence only, but now much more in my absence, WORK out your own salvation with fear and trembling. For it is GOD WHICH WORKETH in you both to will and to do of his good pleasure.
Our Faith, Belief, Repentance are WORKS and a RESULT and EVIDENCE of, not REQUIREMENTS for, Salvation.
What are the saints of God going to be doing in the AGES TO COME?
Ephesians 2:7 ... that in the ages to come ....
Psalms 2:10 Be wise therefore, O ye kings: be instructed, ye JUDGES of the earth.
God is calling out a priesthood to rule and reign in the kingdom of God.
Keep growing into maturity.
God Bless YOU!
In today's society; we have found a way to extricate our minds from within when it comes to the subject of slavery. What happened hundreds of years ago is someone else's problem or said to be our fault by default as to our race. Closer to home now; of course is the continuing servitude particularly of the sex trade today and that brings attention to the revenue of such a trade.
That; of course comes from those who would exploit such an industry who themselves in actuality are slaves to sin.
Revelation makes it clear; unfortunately that slaves will exist in the end times will exist ( Rev. 6:15). At that time they will be clumped together with all those who attempt to hide from God.
Christ has redeemed us from our state of hopelessness and given us a new life. We have turned from Satan as our master to the Living God ( Ephesians 2:2). A truly redeemed child of God can read a passage such as Isaiah 66:24 and understand how they themselves were an abhorrence in their lost; sinful state. To know that we were under His wrath we proclaim the salvation message. Those who are condemned already ( John 3:18) are not known to us immediately; eventually it will be clear who is saved and who isn't at least by judgment Day. Such amazing love of Christ should motivate us to share the Gospel with others.
I am convinced one reason more people aren't sharing with much conviction is because they have become dumbed down to just how wicked they were; forgotten what they were saved from or in the worst case scenario are really not saved at all but following a form of godliness but denying the power thereof ( 2 Tim. 3:5). It is sobering to remind ourselves that as believers that scripture warns us to stay AWAY from such people.
Satan; I always say is an equal opportunity destroyer. He will take any sin; as seemingly innocuous as gossip and turn it into a full scale conflagration (see warnings in James 3:6). Only Christ frees us from slavery.
Colossians 3:1-3
"And has raised us up together, and made us sit in heavenly places in Christ Jesus." Ephesians 2:26
So then, in part, this day is spoken of while the work of Christ continues in earthen vessels.
"To him that overcometh will I grant to sit with me in my throne, even as I also overcame, am am set down with my Father in his throne." Revelation 3:21
All the Old testament saints and the New testament saints were RAISED with Christ.
Ephesians 2:5 Even when we were dead in sins, hath quickened us together with Christ,
Ephesians 2:6 and hath raised us up together .....
Luke 20:36 Neither can they DIE ANYMORE: for they are equal unto the angels, and are the children of God, being the children of the RESURRECTION.
John 8:51 .... if a man keep my saying, he shall never see death.
Luke 9:27 ... there be some standing here, which shall not taste of death.
God Bless You