Primary themes and practical applications of the Bible (part 4)
It should be fairly obvious that we only can follow what the Lord says in scripture. As previously mentioned Satan accurately quoted scriptures to Christ but it was to suit his twisted logic in order to make another failed attempt to bring down Christ to get the glory for himself. The previous example of Moses as well as any other Bible characters; almost all whose flaws were painstakingly detailed in the Bible show that even accurate biographies of these individuals doesn't mean we should emulate them in all things. Certainly we can learn from their mistakes; even with circumstances from thousands of years ago when men would covet a neighbor's donkey and other things that are hard to relate to.
"Substance over form"
In 1 Samuel 7:9 Samuel only offered ONE lamb which would be for; as far as I can tell all of Israel at that time. There were other instances when men were allowed to take the Passover one month later when unclean; when David ate the shewbread only by law for the priests; etc. Even in the old Testament times; a true sacrifice was with a broken and contrite spirit ( Psalm 51:17). It became clear later on in passages such as Isaiah 1:14 that God was tired of rituals without being heartfelt and he actually used the word HATE to describe it. That word is rare; the only other time I am aware of it is used with the passage "I hate divorce" ( Malachi 2:16). Eventually the New Covenant would render the old obsolete; but we can't say there aren't relatable themes here; once again pointing to a man's heart condition such as was seen with the parable given in Luke 18:13.
Justifying our religious pride certainly hasn't died out with the law and the Old Testament regulations; it has merely found different ways to control and manipulate people under the "authority" of the church and offices of administration that are excuses for "lording it over" parishioners; and often fleecing money.
The consistency of the Bible and uniqueness of Christ
In my last post I describe how the incident in John 9 set apart Christ as doing something new; that only God could perform.
This wasn't something the religious Pharisees could deal with; as the lengthy account of this incident makes painfully clear.
We also see Jesus' claims to be able to forgive sins as something unique; yet the many prophecies in Isaiah should have been enough to convince the Jews that this indeed was the true Messiah. There were references there to healing the blind; ministry reaching out to the Gentiles; as well as things such as Isaiah 61 that Jesus quoted and then cut off before the next verse got into the Second Coming and establishing His Kingdom on the earth at that time.
In the analysis of the "Old" and "New" covenants it is better to say that the New one developed the full meaning of the Old.
It certainly doesn't eliminate moral expectations in regard to murder; adultery and covetousness in the original 10 Commandments; we can look to Colossians 2:16 as to the exception of a mandate for "Holy days" as to not enforcing Saturday as the day of rest. This is a hotbed of controversy for some so I won't elaborate further. It is clear ceremonial laws changed; in regard to foods eaten the Cornelious episode makes that abundantly clear. ( Acts 10).
Christ became the sacrifice for our sins so no further sacrifice is needed. ( Psalm 40:6-8). Clearly the grace of the N.T. is seen in the Old Testament; particularly in regard to the sacrifice of a contrite and broken heart as seen in Psalm 51 and many other places. God Himself at some point abhorred the sacrifices due to the hypocrisy ( Isaiah 1:14). Many call Isaiah the Gospel of the O.T. and it is needed reading to understand prophetic things to come regarding Christ and God's call to the Gentiles.
Many places appear to show Christ before He came on earth physically; it is an interesting study in itself. So is the Godhead.
The act of intercession; therefore is something crucial to communication throughout scripture that indeed gives us some insight of Hebrews 7:25 (He ever lives to intercede for us). Daniel also repeated this theme in Daniel 9:8-10. God's promise here was the prophetic insight given in Jeremiah 29:10. God stated this would happen; so it appears to be a done deal. There was no promise how many would do this; as is evident from the small group that initially rebuilt the wall; and the disobedience of many was seen with marriages to foreign wives. No doubt worldliness had affected the hearts of those who should have remembered the prosperity God gave them in Babylon and His promises to return after that time. It is a wonder that confession of the sins of church congregations isn't given much attention as compared to particulary egregious ones of individuals as it still affects the overall witness as we see from exhortations written for the churches in Revelation 2 and 3; for example.
Look at God's faithfulness to Israel as stated in Jeremiah 31:36 where the courses of nature would have to change with the sun and moon for God to abandon His covenant promises. In fact the only covenant changed is that related to the method of worship with the law and sacrifices which was of course replaced by the perfect sacrifice under Christ which abolished therefore the old ordinances. (see Hebrews 9-10). The object of worship was therefore Christ; God had stated in Isaiah 1:11; see also Psalm 69:31.
In understanding the New Covenant we should perceive that it is still the same God with the same characteristics today that existed in the Old Testament from eternity. We would on the surface expect that to be a "no brainer"; but how often do we see the fear of God demonstrated as in Acts 5:1-11 with Ananias and Sapphira? Our commitments to God should not be of fools ( Ecclesiastes 5:4). See Matthew 5:33-35 for ungodly vows.
There is much prophetic scripture in Zechariah; much of which can be directly connected with prophecies in Revelation; as well as with the first coming of Christ. There is the idea of the New Covenant replacing the old one with Israel but never a total abandonment of Israel where God eventually is destined to establish His people in peace and prosperity in the Millennial Kingdom.
Zechariah 1 begins with a description of the earth being at rest (verse 11); but the expected promises of the end of captivity in mind in verse 12. Verse 13 indicates an affirmation of words of comfort to an angel that apparently communicated with Zechariah on these matters. Verses 16 and 17 indicate prosperity to return with the rest of the chapter indicating the "horns" (V. 21) that had scattered the land of Judah.
We need to be mindful of the reasons for the captivity as shown in earlier verses 3 through 6; this is a repeated theme in scriptures; much as Daniel at around the same time would pray in regard to the scattered people (see Daniel 9:1-19). In fact; many prophets begin their books with a review of rebellious acts such as Isaiah 1 where even an ox knows it's master but the people are dumber than animals ( Isaiah 1:3). Ezekiel also talks about the woe of the people being obstinate ( Ezekiel 2:4); and is put into bands to signify the captivity and had to eat food cooked with cow dung (as a concession to protest of human dung in Ezekiel 4:14 (ugh). Finally the last book of the O.T. Malachi also starts discussing poor attitudes among those who are offering sacrifices. Blessings are promised for those who would truly sacrifice with the right attitude (contrasted with Malachi 1:8) in the third chapter from verses 10-18.
The sins of Israel will not be fully removed until the Lord is about to return ( Zech. 12:12-14). Thankfully we cannot thwart HIs eternal plans or we all would be finished. His mercies are renewed daily ( Lamentations 3:22-23).
What David has stated directly contradicts God's words, denies the Truth, makes God a liar. it's dishonor God, insults His Person & slanders His integrity. I recall you speaking somewhat of this to Spencer, What about our God
You don't call this hardness of heart? Speaking such things before a holy & pure God, as this is what God means, interpreting God's words, When God has given us Light & has not left us in the dark in such matters, 2Cor 2:10-13
Isaiah 1:27
Gigi, in truth, what I spoken is a token, a extension of God grace, mercy & love Him
Grace reveal God's judgments upon all ungodliness & righteousness that leads us to godliness, convicting of one & teaching the other.
John 16:8
Psalms 89:14 & if he would receive it as such, he would see God's face in repentance, not to be repented of.
In love for his eternal welfare & his calling of God in this life, I've waited on the Lord for instructions & so I spoke, as of now, I'm clear of this man's blood Acts 18:6 & if I'm clear in my conscience before God, no mortal can condemn me for it, & if not
Concerning our conversation continuing as being unfruitful, that will depend on our love for the Truth,
YAHWEH-TSIDKENU [yah-way-tzid-kay-noo]: "The Lord Our Righteousness" ( Jeremiah 33:16) - As with YHWH-M'Kaddesh, it is God alone who provides righteousness (from the Hebrew word tsidkenu) to man, ultimately in the person of His Son, Jesus Christ, who became sin for us "that we might become the Righteousness of God in Him" ( 2 Corinthians 5:21).
YAHWEH-ROHI [yah-way-roh-hee]: "The Lord Our Shepherd" ( Psalm 23:1) - After David pondered his relationship as a shepherd to his sheep, he realized that was exactly the relationship God had with him, and so he declares, "Yahweh-Rohi is my Shepherd. I shall not want" ( Psalm 23:1).
YAHWEH-SHAMMAH [yah-way-sham-mahw]: "The Lord Is There" ( Ezekiel 48:35) - the name ascribed to Jerusalem and the Temple there, indicating that the once-departed glory of the Lord ( Ezekiel 8-11) had returned ( Ezekiel 44:1-4).
YAHWEH-SABAOTH [yah-way-sah-bah-ohth]: "The Lord of Hosts" ( Isaiah 1:24; Psalm 46:7) - Hosts means "hordes," both of angels and of men. He is Lord of the host of heaven and of the inhabitants of the earth, of Jews and Gentiles, of rich and poor, master and slave. The name is expressive of the majesty, power, and authority of God and shows that He is able to accomplish what He determines to do.
EL ELYON [el-el-yohn]: "Most High" ( Deuteronomy 26:19) - derived from the Hebrew root for "go up" or "ascend," so the implication is of that which is the very highest. El Elyon denotes exaltation and speaks of absolute right to lordship.
EL ROI [el-roh-ee]: "God of Seeing" ( Genesis 16:13) - the name ascribed to God by Hagar, alone and desperate in the wilderness after being driven out by Sarah ( Genesis 16:1-14). When Hagar met the Angel of the Lord, she realized she had seen God Himself in a theophany. She also realized that El Roi saw her in her distress and testified that He is a God who lives and sees all.
It is vital; at this stage to reiterate that we must repent of unconfessed sin. God has designed it so that if we are not willing to do this there is great torment that can render us powerless in our walk. That is a warning to all those "confessions" of blessings "declared" on ourselves or others; it in reality brings a curse on us. The reason why is because we are in a Covenant with the Lord and therefore it is His end of the deal to not only save His people but sanctify us; "purging out the dross" ( Isaiah 1:25).
Part of the problem is that for some bizarre reason it seems to me that very few Christians shall we say overestimate Satan's threat to our well being. It seems strange since a die hard individual on the other camp doesn't seem to have too much difficulty believing in that reality; and occasionally is driven to faith in the Lord when one of his "bargains" with the enemy goes awry (his true colors are exposed). At face value; someone who seeks to kill; steal and destroy ( John 10:10) would be considered an enemy. Sometimes I think we take the love your enemies verse and twist it around; perhaps not to have sympathy for the devil; but to somehow dumb down how evil he is (probably in part because it makes our own comfortable lives in jeopardy realizing that reality). Since he is the power of the air as it were leading men astray; it should be held in conjunction with the fact that man is apart from Christ unable to do any good or as the Reformers state in "total depravity."
If we would focus on the cause rather than the effects of endless problems we see with our natural eyes in this fallen world
we may be able to live out a better walk with the Lord in our prayer lives.
Fear of death ( Hebrews 2:14-15) is something which I have struggled with; I know better but that is one of the enemies' favorite torments. God will deliver His people; but let us be diligent in prayer for ourselves and others as 1 Peter 5:9 says
I consider what you are saying is on the the right track, not that I'm the authority on truth, or that you need my or anyone's approval. Yet, I would consider going deeper into what you are touching on regarding, "When God and His Kingdom is spiritual."
With the focus on "spiritual", or spirit, in John 4:24 we have the statement, "God is Spirit". Therefore, He is not flesh. John 3:6 says, "That which is born of the flesh is flesh; and that which is born of the Spirit is spirit." Therefore, He did not create flesh. John 6:63 states, "It is the spirit that quickeneth; the flesh profiteth nothing. Therefore, it is the spirit which is life, rendering the flesh as NOTHING.
God creates in His Own Likeness. Is it not reasonable that if God is Spirit, and perfect and eternal, which I'm certain all Christians agree, how can we arrive at the unreasonable conclusion that He creates flesh or that anything He creates is something other than perfect and eternal? It is reasonable also to conclude that if something is created perfect, and then becomes imperfect, for whatever REASON, including sin, then it could not have been created perfect in its original creation.
The word "reason" is often used in the Bible; commonly as a noun. In Isaiah 1:18 it is used as verb. Is it is not then reasonable to conclude that God created our mind to use REASON to understand what is obvious? The "devil is afraid of the obvious that arrives through reasonable thinking, since obviousness is the essential characteristic of reality, or truth. The rest i.e. anything pertaining to the flesh, profiteth nothing, does not matter, counts for nothing.
Perhaps all of our conceived and perceived problems arise from what should be considered the "root of all evil", is the authority problem. Is our Author the Creator of Spirit which creates eternal spirit and life? Or is our author flesh that made flesh which is not eternal? Can't be both.
Where is the scripture in Isaiah Prophesized since the Jews disobeyed God. And that's where God wanted to go to all of us Gentiles. Thank You, Keith P. Besch
Imagine the disciples sitting and listening to Jesus words. Jesus words in the book of John ,Mathew, Mark, Luke, word for word written perfectly according to the Holy Spirit, while John is exiled on an Island, the last only and the closest to Christ. What is amazing, while each book is different, in the end it is the perfect combination needed for what we need for our learning, and yet it allows us the freedom to look into those things that freely belong to us, opening our eyes ever wider unto eternal life!
The words are Christs, they are a well spring unto eternal life!
"Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they shall be filled!" This is what you seek! His spirit will guide and direct you! Jesus first sermon on the mountain would be a great place to meet Him!
Sanctification comes through faith, Baptism comes through the Holy spirit, the washing of regeneration, a renewal of our body and spirit, the miracle we all wish to see, and will!
Always remembering, it is not us, but what He did on the Cross!
That we might have life and have it more abundantly!
Going back to Joel 2:30-31 we see a verse utilized by Dominionists and other extreme Pentacostals which taken in context are likely to be a description of the 2 Prophets in the last days who have a sort of "Prophetic contest" with the rest of the world. They end up being martyred by the Beast coming out of the sea (Antichrist) before being Resurrected. Again; if there is no warning about false Messiahs doing miracles ( Matt. 24:24) then we are left assuming that everything is genuine that is "miraculous" without examining to see if it is men's imaginations; God or a demon causing these things or apparent things to occur.
Of course if we do the preverbal "throwing out the baby with the bathwater" and are total cessationists we are also going beyond scripture and are in danger at worst of blaspheming God when a true miracle occurs; or at worst being overly discouraging.
Red flag #3: Tying into the first two "red flags" there are those who go beyond what we know presently in relation to a prophetic event and make all sorts of statements on this or that event being a sign; and taken to an extreme stating that it proves such and such an event during the Tribulation is occurring. We must keep in mind that Christ personally opens all the seals; and in fact no man is worthy to do so beforehand. The man of sin surely would have come out by now if the restrainer had been removed. In fact we probably all would have been dead by now.
Red flag #4: Finally; a reminder once again not to be sidetracked by political; economic and other pressing issues beyond what we are called to be. We must be aware of the order of authority; namely the Godhead; Satan and his minions with their own ranks; then men in leadership followed by the rest of us "peons". We can look at the world in a way that we would see a skin lesion and not realize that the whole body is sick (such as seen in Isaiah 1:6). A mighty fortress is our God says it well
What would cause a person to not know that he's lukewarm?
They are lacking gold tried in the fire.
They are naked lacking white raiment.
And apparently don't know it. "and anoint thine eyes with eyesalve, that thou mayest see."
The fining pot is for silver, and the furnace for gold: but the LORD trieth the hearts. Proverbs 17:3.
Gold is purged of dross ( Isaiah 1:25), so by the refining fire of temptations the faithful are cleansed from pride and self-reliance and the pollutions of sin.
When we are self-reliant, we are naked before the Lord.
For the word of God is quick, and powerful, and sharper than any twoedged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart.
Neither is there any creature that is not manifest in his sight: but all things are naked and opened unto the eyes of him with whom we have to do. Hebrews 4:12-13. (I counsel thee to buy of me gold tried in the fire, that thou mayest be rich; and white raiment, that thou mayest be clothed, and that the shame of thy nakedness do not appear;
Anoint thine eyes with eyesalve, that thou mayest see.
I believe this is blinded by pride, this reminds me of the Pharisees.
Matthew 6:1-5.
John 12:43. For they loved the praise of men more than the praise of God.
There is no conviction in a person who is self-sufficient. spreading the gospel is not on the top of their list. Walking in the spirit is only in the church building afterwards everything else is just a discussion forum or a round table or a competition where we compete for first place.
The word of God is handled to loosely. If we have faith in the inerrancy of the word of God, we should display it cautiously.
Don't do it as a hobby, it may not be your calling.
Don't counseling on things you don't understand.
The only barrier to truth is to think we already have it.
Do you believe John 3:16 ? Do you believe GOD can heal? Do you believe GOD can change everything? Do you believe man who spoke those words over you, or GOD ALMIGHTY that created you!? Be Healed be delivered
Trust GOD
James 1:5, Romans 10:17, James 4:7, Luke 11:9-13,
Nick 34, You're saying only when you pray or read the Bible; the scripture says pray without ceasing 1Thessalonians 5:17. Lay the word on your heart & in your soul, bind on your hand, in front of your eyes, to talk about them often, with your children when sitting, walking along, when laying down, the WORD of GOD, Deuteronomy 11:18-20, Psalms 119:11,
Is it a spiritual attack to keep you from reading, praying & learning of a Loving Creator our Loving Father in Heaven? Or is it the HOLY Spirit bringing conviction of sin? If it's not peace that is present, your relationship needs work, possibly. Even Isaiah a Prophet of GOD, had to repent to be close to GOD's presence: Isaiah 1:6, These should be helpful
Judge the fatherless - Do justice to him - vindicate his cause. Take not advantage of his weak and helpless, condition - his ignorance and want of experience. This charge was particularly necessary on account of the facilities which the guardians of orphans have to defraud or oppress, without danger of detection or punishment. Orphans have no experience. Parents are their natural protectors; and therefore God especially charged on their guardians to befriend and do justice to them; De 24:17 : 'Thou shalt not pervert the judgment of the stranger, nor the fatherless, nor take the widow's raiment to pledge. Albert Barns..
Where it says Judge the fatherless in Isaiah 1:17, Gill's Exposition of the Entire Bible explains it this way; "do justice to them who have none to take care of them, and defend them:"
I agree with the way you adressed this topic before. I believe you helped break down the biggest most divisive issue, when there is hypocrisy with abuses & blatant unrepented sins, there is accountability. I believe Jesus clearly taught accountability & old testament usually addressed as within Church / temple & leadership within, also: Isaiah 9:17, Matthew 20:1-19, Luke 20:45-47, Luke 11:39-54, Matthew 23, Isaiah 1:17, Isaiah 1, Isaiah 58, Jeremiah 7:1-17, Jeremiah 22:3, Jeremiah 34:8-12 ._..
I believe you Chris or possibly someone else addressed the question we're they ever really saved?
I address this question as to answer the many outside the church who ask because of injustice etc. This site is for those, I believe most of all.
Faith Knight, I also agree with Adam & Chris this is an issue with disagreement. & hesitation is possibly warning. But, I included scripture covering love, meekness in the way, its addressed. John 15:18,24,25, Luke 21:17, Zechariah 13:6,
Count the cost? Luke 14:26-35,
Said in sincerity of Love, through the fellowship of Faith in Jesus Christ
I believe it's a daily decision effort. Referring to "pick up your cross daily & follow" Jesus, "dying to self", being "born again " we have to go from a symbolic crawling to walking. Luke 9:23, Luke 14:27, Matthew 10:38, John 8:24,
Learn to :
Deuteronomy 17:19, Isaiah 1:17,
Even fruit, isn't automatic, it takes time to grow.
Pruning, is there habits that need to be cut off? Even if it starts growing back, to trim again.
Luke 17:33, John 8:34, Romans 6, Romans 7, Romans 8:2,
Isaiah 45:24 | View whole chapter | See verse in context
Surely, shall one say, in the LORD have I righteousness and strength: even to him shall men come; and all that are incensed against him shall be ashamed.
2 Kings 2:17 | View whole chapter | See verse in context
And when they urged him till he was ashamed, he said, Send. They sent therefore fifty men; and they sought three days, but found him not.
Jeremiah 31:19 | View whole chapter | See verse in context
Surely after that I was turned, I repented; and after that I was instructed, I smote upon my thigh: I was ashamed, yea, even confounded, because I did bear the reproach of my youth.
Isaiah 42:17 | View whole chapter | See verse in context
They shall be turned back, they shall be greatly ashamed, that trust in graven images, that say to the molten images, Ye are our gods.
Psalms 70:2 | View whole chapter | See verse in context
Let them be ashamed and confounded that seek after my soul: let them be turned backward, and put to confusion, that desire my hurt.
Psalms 40:14 | View whole chapter | See verse in context
Let them be ashamed and confounded together that seek after my soul to destroy it; let them be driven backward and put to shame that wish me evil.
Isaiah 1:29 | View whole chapter | See verse in context
For they shall be ashamed of the oaks which ye have desired, and ye shall be confounded for the gardens that ye have chosen.
Psalms 35:26 | View whole chapter | See verse in context
Let them be ashamed and brought to confusion together that rejoice at mine hurt: let them be clothed with shame and dishonour that magnify themselves against me.
Joel 2:26 | View whole chapter | See verse in context
And ye shall eat in plenty, and be satisfied, and praise the name of the LORD your God, that hath dealt wondrously with you: and my people shall never be ashamed.
It should be fairly obvious that we only can follow what the Lord says in scripture. As previously mentioned Satan accurately quoted scriptures to Christ but it was to suit his twisted logic in order to make another failed attempt to bring down Christ to get the glory for himself. The previous example of Moses as well as any other Bible characters; almost all whose flaws were painstakingly detailed in the Bible show that even accurate biographies of these individuals doesn't mean we should emulate them in all things. Certainly we can learn from their mistakes; even with circumstances from thousands of years ago when men would covet a neighbor's donkey and other things that are hard to relate to.
"Substance over form"
In 1 Samuel 7:9 Samuel only offered ONE lamb which would be for; as far as I can tell all of Israel at that time. There were other instances when men were allowed to take the Passover one month later when unclean; when David ate the shewbread only by law for the priests; etc. Even in the old Testament times; a true sacrifice was with a broken and contrite spirit ( Psalm 51:17). It became clear later on in passages such as Isaiah 1:14 that God was tired of rituals without being heartfelt and he actually used the word HATE to describe it. That word is rare; the only other time I am aware of it is used with the passage "I hate divorce" ( Malachi 2:16). Eventually the New Covenant would render the old obsolete; but we can't say there aren't relatable themes here; once again pointing to a man's heart condition such as was seen with the parable given in Luke 18:13.
Justifying our religious pride certainly hasn't died out with the law and the Old Testament regulations; it has merely found different ways to control and manipulate people under the "authority" of the church and offices of administration that are excuses for "lording it over" parishioners; and often fleecing money.
In my last post I describe how the incident in John 9 set apart Christ as doing something new; that only God could perform.
This wasn't something the religious Pharisees could deal with; as the lengthy account of this incident makes painfully clear.
We also see Jesus' claims to be able to forgive sins as something unique; yet the many prophecies in Isaiah should have been enough to convince the Jews that this indeed was the true Messiah. There were references there to healing the blind; ministry reaching out to the Gentiles; as well as things such as Isaiah 61 that Jesus quoted and then cut off before the next verse got into the Second Coming and establishing His Kingdom on the earth at that time.
In the analysis of the "Old" and "New" covenants it is better to say that the New one developed the full meaning of the Old.
It certainly doesn't eliminate moral expectations in regard to murder; adultery and covetousness in the original 10 Commandments; we can look to Colossians 2:16 as to the exception of a mandate for "Holy days" as to not enforcing Saturday as the day of rest. This is a hotbed of controversy for some so I won't elaborate further. It is clear ceremonial laws changed; in regard to foods eaten the Cornelious episode makes that abundantly clear. ( Acts 10).
Christ became the sacrifice for our sins so no further sacrifice is needed. ( Psalm 40:6-8). Clearly the grace of the N.T. is seen in the Old Testament; particularly in regard to the sacrifice of a contrite and broken heart as seen in Psalm 51 and many other places. God Himself at some point abhorred the sacrifices due to the hypocrisy ( Isaiah 1:14). Many call Isaiah the Gospel of the O.T. and it is needed reading to understand prophetic things to come regarding Christ and God's call to the Gentiles.
Many places appear to show Christ before He came on earth physically; it is an interesting study in itself. So is the Godhead.
The act of intercession; therefore is something crucial to communication throughout scripture that indeed gives us some insight of Hebrews 7:25 (He ever lives to intercede for us). Daniel also repeated this theme in Daniel 9:8-10. God's promise here was the prophetic insight given in Jeremiah 29:10. God stated this would happen; so it appears to be a done deal. There was no promise how many would do this; as is evident from the small group that initially rebuilt the wall; and the disobedience of many was seen with marriages to foreign wives. No doubt worldliness had affected the hearts of those who should have remembered the prosperity God gave them in Babylon and His promises to return after that time. It is a wonder that confession of the sins of church congregations isn't given much attention as compared to particulary egregious ones of individuals as it still affects the overall witness as we see from exhortations written for the churches in Revelation 2 and 3; for example.
Look at God's faithfulness to Israel as stated in Jeremiah 31:36 where the courses of nature would have to change with the sun and moon for God to abandon His covenant promises. In fact the only covenant changed is that related to the method of worship with the law and sacrifices which was of course replaced by the perfect sacrifice under Christ which abolished therefore the old ordinances. (see Hebrews 9-10). The object of worship was therefore Christ; God had stated in Isaiah 1:11; see also Psalm 69:31.
In understanding the New Covenant we should perceive that it is still the same God with the same characteristics today that existed in the Old Testament from eternity. We would on the surface expect that to be a "no brainer"; but how often do we see the fear of God demonstrated as in Acts 5:1-11 with Ananias and Sapphira? Our commitments to God should not be of fools ( Ecclesiastes 5:4). See Matthew 5:33-35 for ungodly vows.
There is much prophetic scripture in Zechariah; much of which can be directly connected with prophecies in Revelation; as well as with the first coming of Christ. There is the idea of the New Covenant replacing the old one with Israel but never a total abandonment of Israel where God eventually is destined to establish His people in peace and prosperity in the Millennial Kingdom.
Zechariah 1 begins with a description of the earth being at rest (verse 11); but the expected promises of the end of captivity in mind in verse 12. Verse 13 indicates an affirmation of words of comfort to an angel that apparently communicated with Zechariah on these matters. Verses 16 and 17 indicate prosperity to return with the rest of the chapter indicating the "horns" (V. 21) that had scattered the land of Judah.
We need to be mindful of the reasons for the captivity as shown in earlier verses 3 through 6; this is a repeated theme in scriptures; much as Daniel at around the same time would pray in regard to the scattered people (see Daniel 9:1-19). In fact; many prophets begin their books with a review of rebellious acts such as Isaiah 1 where even an ox knows it's master but the people are dumber than animals ( Isaiah 1:3). Ezekiel also talks about the woe of the people being obstinate ( Ezekiel 2:4); and is put into bands to signify the captivity and had to eat food cooked with cow dung (as a concession to protest of human dung in Ezekiel 4:14 (ugh). Finally the last book of the O.T. Malachi also starts discussing poor attitudes among those who are offering sacrifices. Blessings are promised for those who would truly sacrifice with the right attitude (contrasted with Malachi 1:8) in the third chapter from verses 10-18.
The sins of Israel will not be fully removed until the Lord is about to return ( Zech. 12:12-14). Thankfully we cannot thwart HIs eternal plans or we all would be finished. His mercies are renewed daily ( Lamentations 3:22-23).
According to
Luke 6:45 you can !
What David has stated directly contradicts God's words, denies the Truth, makes God a liar. it's dishonor God, insults His Person & slanders His integrity. I recall you speaking somewhat of this to Spencer, What about our God
You don't call this hardness of heart? Speaking such things before a holy & pure God, as this is what God means, interpreting God's words, When God has given us Light & has not left us in the dark in such matters, 2Cor 2:10-13
Isaiah 1:27
Gigi, in truth, what I spoken is a token, a extension of God grace, mercy & love Him
Grace reveal God's judgments upon all ungodliness & righteousness that leads us to godliness, convicting of one & teaching the other.
John 16:8
Psalms 89:14 & if he would receive it as such, he would see God's face in repentance, not to be repented of.
In love for his eternal welfare & his calling of God in this life, I've waited on the Lord for instructions & so I spoke, as of now, I'm clear of this man's blood Acts 18:6 & if I'm clear in my conscience before God, no mortal can condemn me for it, & if not
Concerning our conversation continuing as being unfruitful, that will depend on our love for the Truth,
I know where I stand.
in love & truth
Part 3.
YAHWEH-TSIDKENU [yah-way-tzid-kay-noo]: "The Lord Our Righteousness" ( Jeremiah 33:16) - As with YHWH-M'Kaddesh, it is God alone who provides righteousness (from the Hebrew word tsidkenu) to man, ultimately in the person of His Son, Jesus Christ, who became sin for us "that we might become the Righteousness of God in Him" ( 2 Corinthians 5:21).
YAHWEH-ROHI [yah-way-roh-hee]: "The Lord Our Shepherd" ( Psalm 23:1) - After David pondered his relationship as a shepherd to his sheep, he realized that was exactly the relationship God had with him, and so he declares, "Yahweh-Rohi is my Shepherd. I shall not want" ( Psalm 23:1).
YAHWEH-SHAMMAH [yah-way-sham-mahw]: "The Lord Is There" ( Ezekiel 48:35) - the name ascribed to Jerusalem and the Temple there, indicating that the once-departed glory of the Lord ( Ezekiel 8-11) had returned ( Ezekiel 44:1-4).
YAHWEH-SABAOTH [yah-way-sah-bah-ohth]: "The Lord of Hosts" ( Isaiah 1:24; Psalm 46:7) - Hosts means "hordes," both of angels and of men. He is Lord of the host of heaven and of the inhabitants of the earth, of Jews and Gentiles, of rich and poor, master and slave. The name is expressive of the majesty, power, and authority of God and shows that He is able to accomplish what He determines to do.
EL ELYON [el-el-yohn]: "Most High" ( Deuteronomy 26:19) - derived from the Hebrew root for "go up" or "ascend," so the implication is of that which is the very highest. El Elyon denotes exaltation and speaks of absolute right to lordship.
EL ROI [el-roh-ee]: "God of Seeing" ( Genesis 16:13) - the name ascribed to God by Hagar, alone and desperate in the wilderness after being driven out by Sarah ( Genesis 16:1-14). When Hagar met the Angel of the Lord, she realized she had seen God Himself in a theophany. She also realized that El Roi saw her in her distress and testified that He is a God who lives and sees all.
See Part 4.
It is vital; at this stage to reiterate that we must repent of unconfessed sin. God has designed it so that if we are not willing to do this there is great torment that can render us powerless in our walk. That is a warning to all those "confessions" of blessings "declared" on ourselves or others; it in reality brings a curse on us. The reason why is because we are in a Covenant with the Lord and therefore it is His end of the deal to not only save His people but sanctify us; "purging out the dross" ( Isaiah 1:25).
Part of the problem is that for some bizarre reason it seems to me that very few Christians shall we say overestimate Satan's threat to our well being. It seems strange since a die hard individual on the other camp doesn't seem to have too much difficulty believing in that reality; and occasionally is driven to faith in the Lord when one of his "bargains" with the enemy goes awry (his true colors are exposed). At face value; someone who seeks to kill; steal and destroy ( John 10:10) would be considered an enemy. Sometimes I think we take the love your enemies verse and twist it around; perhaps not to have sympathy for the devil; but to somehow dumb down how evil he is (probably in part because it makes our own comfortable lives in jeopardy realizing that reality). Since he is the power of the air as it were leading men astray; it should be held in conjunction with the fact that man is apart from Christ unable to do any good or as the Reformers state in "total depravity."
If we would focus on the cause rather than the effects of endless problems we see with our natural eyes in this fallen world
we may be able to live out a better walk with the Lord in our prayer lives.
Fear of death ( Hebrews 2:14-15) is something which I have struggled with; I know better but that is one of the enemies' favorite torments. God will deliver His people; but let us be diligent in prayer for ourselves and others as 1 Peter 5:9 says
I consider what you are saying is on the the right track, not that I'm the authority on truth, or that you need my or anyone's approval. Yet, I would consider going deeper into what you are touching on regarding, "When God and His Kingdom is spiritual."
With the focus on "spiritual", or spirit, in John 4:24 we have the statement, "God is Spirit". Therefore, He is not flesh. John 3:6 says, "That which is born of the flesh is flesh; and that which is born of the Spirit is spirit." Therefore, He did not create flesh. John 6:63 states, "It is the spirit that quickeneth; the flesh profiteth nothing. Therefore, it is the spirit which is life, rendering the flesh as NOTHING.
God creates in His Own Likeness. Is it not reasonable that if God is Spirit, and perfect and eternal, which I'm certain all Christians agree, how can we arrive at the unreasonable conclusion that He creates flesh or that anything He creates is something other than perfect and eternal? It is reasonable also to conclude that if something is created perfect, and then becomes imperfect, for whatever REASON, including sin, then it could not have been created perfect in its original creation.
The word "reason" is often used in the Bible; commonly as a noun. In Isaiah 1:18 it is used as verb. Is it is not then reasonable to conclude that God created our mind to use REASON to understand what is obvious? The "devil is afraid of the obvious that arrives through reasonable thinking, since obviousness is the essential characteristic of reality, or truth. The rest i.e. anything pertaining to the flesh, profiteth nothing, does not matter, counts for nothing.
Perhaps all of our conceived and perceived problems arise from what should be considered the "root of all evil", is the authority problem. Is our Author the Creator of Spirit which creates eternal spirit and life? Or is our author flesh that made flesh which is not eternal? Can't be both.
God Is
Peace
The words are Christs, they are a well spring unto eternal life!
"Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they shall be filled!" This is what you seek! His spirit will guide and direct you! Jesus first sermon on the mountain would be a great place to meet Him!
Sanctification comes through faith, Baptism comes through the Holy spirit, the washing of regeneration, a renewal of our body and spirit, the miracle we all wish to see, and will!
Always remembering, it is not us, but what He did on the Cross!
That we might have life and have it more abundantly!
Repent and be Baptized
Going back to Joel 2:30-31 we see a verse utilized by Dominionists and other extreme Pentacostals which taken in context are likely to be a description of the 2 Prophets in the last days who have a sort of "Prophetic contest" with the rest of the world. They end up being martyred by the Beast coming out of the sea (Antichrist) before being Resurrected. Again; if there is no warning about false Messiahs doing miracles ( Matt. 24:24) then we are left assuming that everything is genuine that is "miraculous" without examining to see if it is men's imaginations; God or a demon causing these things or apparent things to occur.
Of course if we do the preverbal "throwing out the baby with the bathwater" and are total cessationists we are also going beyond scripture and are in danger at worst of blaspheming God when a true miracle occurs; or at worst being overly discouraging.
Red flag #3: Tying into the first two "red flags" there are those who go beyond what we know presently in relation to a prophetic event and make all sorts of statements on this or that event being a sign; and taken to an extreme stating that it proves such and such an event during the Tribulation is occurring. We must keep in mind that Christ personally opens all the seals; and in fact no man is worthy to do so beforehand. The man of sin surely would have come out by now if the restrainer had been removed. In fact we probably all would have been dead by now.
Red flag #4: Finally; a reminder once again not to be sidetracked by political; economic and other pressing issues beyond what we are called to be. We must be aware of the order of authority; namely the Godhead; Satan and his minions with their own ranks; then men in leadership followed by the rest of us "peons". We can look at the world in a way that we would see a skin lesion and not realize that the whole body is sick (such as seen in Isaiah 1:6). A mighty fortress is our God says it well
What does lukewarm looks like in a believer?
What would cause a person to not know that he's lukewarm?
They are lacking gold tried in the fire.
They are naked lacking white raiment.
And apparently don't know it. "and anoint thine eyes with eyesalve, that thou mayest see."
The fining pot is for silver, and the furnace for gold: but the LORD trieth the hearts. Proverbs 17:3.
Gold is purged of dross ( Isaiah 1:25), so by the refining fire of temptations the faithful are cleansed from pride and self-reliance and the pollutions of sin.
When we are self-reliant, we are naked before the Lord.
For the word of God is quick, and powerful, and sharper than any twoedged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart.
Neither is there any creature that is not manifest in his sight: but all things are naked and opened unto the eyes of him with whom we have to do. Hebrews 4:12-13. (I counsel thee to buy of me gold tried in the fire, that thou mayest be rich; and white raiment, that thou mayest be clothed, and that the shame of thy nakedness do not appear;
Anoint thine eyes with eyesalve, that thou mayest see.
I believe this is blinded by pride, this reminds me of the Pharisees.
Matthew 6:1-5.
John 12:43. For they loved the praise of men more than the praise of God.
There is no conviction in a person who is self-sufficient. spreading the gospel is not on the top of their list. Walking in the spirit is only in the church building afterwards everything else is just a discussion forum or a round table or a competition where we compete for first place.
The word of God is handled to loosely. If we have faith in the inerrancy of the word of God, we should display it cautiously.
Don't do it as a hobby, it may not be your calling.
Don't counseling on things you don't understand.
The only barrier to truth is to think we already have it.
Leviticus 8:33-36, Exodus 30:1-10, 2Chronicles 2:4, Revelation 8:4,
Numbers 16:46,47, 1Chronicles 6:49, Exodus 29:36,37,
Isaiah 1:11-20, Romans 5, Hebrews 10,
Hopefully these are helpful in your study
Do you believe John 3:16 ? Do you believe GOD can heal? Do you believe GOD can change everything? Do you believe man who spoke those words over you, or GOD ALMIGHTY that created you!? Be Healed be delivered
Trust GOD
James 1:5, Romans 10:17, James 4:7, Luke 11:9-13,
Nick 34, You're saying only when you pray or read the Bible; the scripture says pray without ceasing 1Thessalonians 5:17. Lay the word on your heart & in your soul, bind on your hand, in front of your eyes, to talk about them often, with your children when sitting, walking along, when laying down, the WORD of GOD, Deuteronomy 11:18-20, Psalms 119:11,
Is it a spiritual attack to keep you from reading, praying & learning of a Loving Creator our Loving Father in Heaven? Or is it the HOLY Spirit bringing conviction of sin? If it's not peace that is present, your relationship needs work, possibly. Even Isaiah a Prophet of GOD, had to repent to be close to GOD's presence: Isaiah 1:6, These should be helpful
Proverbs 15:25,= Jeremiah 39:10, Jeremiah 52:16, Proverbs 21:13,
Deuteronomy 15:9, = Jeremiah 34:8-22,
Hopefully these are helpful
"...when ye spread forth your hands, I will hide mine eyes from you: yea, when ye make many prayers, I will not hear: your hands are full of blood."
Notice how David's prayer for his dying son was not heard. 2nd Samuel Chapter 12
Where it says Judge the fatherless in Isaiah 1:17, Gill's Exposition of the Entire Bible explains it this way; "do justice to them who have none to take care of them, and defend them:"
I agree with the way you adressed this topic before. I believe you helped break down the biggest most divisive issue, when there is hypocrisy with abuses & blatant unrepented sins, there is accountability. I believe Jesus clearly taught accountability & old testament usually addressed as within Church / temple & leadership within, also: Isaiah 9:17, Matthew 20:1-19, Luke 20:45-47, Luke 11:39-54, Matthew 23, Isaiah 1:17, Isaiah 1, Isaiah 58, Jeremiah 7:1-17, Jeremiah 22:3, Jeremiah 34:8-12 ._..
I believe you Chris or possibly someone else addressed the question we're they ever really saved?
I address this question as to answer the many outside the church who ask because of injustice etc. This site is for those, I believe most of all.
Faith Knight, I also agree with Adam & Chris this is an issue with disagreement. & hesitation is possibly warning. But, I included scripture covering love, meekness in the way, its addressed. John 15:18,24,25, Luke 21:17, Zechariah 13:6,
Count the cost? Luke 14:26-35,
Said in sincerity of Love, through the fellowship of Faith in Jesus Christ
Learn to :
Deuteronomy 17:19, Isaiah 1:17,
Even fruit, isn't automatic, it takes time to grow.
Pruning, is there habits that need to be cut off? Even if it starts growing back, to trim again.
Luke 17:33, John 8:34, Romans 6, Romans 7, Romans 8:2,
Hopefully these are helpful
Surely, shall one say, in the LORD have I righteousness and strength: even to him shall men come; and all that are incensed against him shall be ashamed.
2 Kings 2:17 | View whole chapter | See verse in context
And when they urged him till he was ashamed, he said, Send. They sent therefore fifty men; and they sought three days, but found him not.
Jeremiah 31:19 | View whole chapter | See verse in context
Surely after that I was turned, I repented; and after that I was instructed, I smote upon my thigh: I was ashamed, yea, even confounded, because I did bear the reproach of my youth.
Isaiah 42:17 | View whole chapter | See verse in context
They shall be turned back, they shall be greatly ashamed, that trust in graven images, that say to the molten images, Ye are our gods.
Psalms 70:2 | View whole chapter | See verse in context
Let them be ashamed and confounded that seek after my soul: let them be turned backward, and put to confusion, that desire my hurt.
Psalms 40:14 | View whole chapter | See verse in context
Let them be ashamed and confounded together that seek after my soul to destroy it; let them be driven backward and put to shame that wish me evil.
Isaiah 1:29 | View whole chapter | See verse in context
For they shall be ashamed of the oaks which ye have desired, and ye shall be confounded for the gardens that ye have chosen.
Psalms 35:26 | View whole chapter | See verse in context
Let them be ashamed and brought to confusion together that rejoice at mine hurt: let them be clothed with shame and dishonour that magnify themselves against me.
Joel 2:26 | View whole chapter | See verse in context
And ye shall eat in plenty, and be satisfied, and praise the name of the LORD your God, that hath dealt wondrously with you: and my people shall never be ashamed.
2Chronicles 7:14, 1Peter 3:12, humble ourselves, turn from evil, 1Timothy 2:8, James 5:10-12,
Even when things look impossible keep praying: Isaiah 38:1-9, Matthew 9:29, Matthew 17:14-21, Matthew 7:7-8, Luke 11:9-13, Acts 12:5-18, James 5:13-20
Never give up
Psalms 37, 1Thessalonians 5:17, James 5:16,
2Chronicles 36:14-21, Nehemiah 9, Nehemiah 13:10-22,
Isaiah 56, Isaiah 58, Jeremiah 17:7-27, Amos 8:4-10,
Matthew 12:2-5, reference Ezekiel 46:1,12,
Matthew 12:8, Matthew 12:1-14, John 5:6-47, John 7:22-23, John 19:31, Matthew 23:23, Matthew 25:31-46