James 2:9-12: James is writing in these verses about those who would "keep (fully obey) the whole law", yet go astray even by committing one sin in a moment of time, having demonstrated their inability to keep (continually uphold) the Law as required. "So speak ye ( James 1:26), and so do ( James 2:17), as they that shall be judged by the law of liberty (the Law believers are under, 2 Corinthians 2:17, Galatians 5:1, James 1:25)". The Law of Liberty, can also be referred to the Law of the Spirit Who gives Liberty ( 2 Corinthians 3:17, Romans 8:2), assures our hearts that we are accepted of the Lord because we have been forgiven & the Gift of the Holy Spirit continually ministers to our hearts & lives to help us live holy lives or lead us/discipline us when we stray off course.
This Liberty, the Law could never give - Israel always remained fearful of it, eventually leading them into idolatry & debauchery, but to those IN Christ Jesus there is now no condemnation who walk after the Spirit ( Romans 8:1) - we should not be bound to the letter that had as its goal to expose & destroy souls, but to the Spirit Who gives Power & Life to obey God perfectly, "hating even the garment spotted by the flesh" ( Jude 1:23). Only the Laws given us by the Spirit to our hearts cover every area of our lives, ministering to us in His Way (& not in human strength), so we can live above the letter's demands but as new creations in Christ. There was nothing wrong with the 10 Commandments, for they are from God & His Truth - but they were for Israel alone, for their conduct before God & man, to show them their sin, God's requirements, & prepare them to approach God in Love, Truth, & Faith. All who did at that time were accepted by their faith alone ( Hebrews 11:39,40) & not on how well they kept the Law. Romans 8:3,4 (we allow the righteousness of the Law to work & be fulfilled in us by God's Spirit - never appealing to the letter, which is devoid of life). Every blessing.
As we apply these verses to prayer; we may consider that His victory means our victory; in the sense of our eternal future living with Him forever in heaven as well as now; when we suffer for His Name's sake we are fulfilling the Great Commission; and are assured of a reward in heaven as Jesus alludes to in the Sermon on the Mount. All of our life should therefore be wrapped up in the greater purposes; sowing in tears to reap later in joy ( Psalm 126:5-6). The meaning and purpose of earthly blessings common to man is only appreciated in the light of the weight of eternal glory. We ask for good things so that we can further His Kingdom; especially in regard to the filling of the Holy Spirit ( Luke 11:13). In praise; we ask that the King be exalted; and of course that starts in our hearts.
We look at Christ who suffered and His visage was marred more than any man ( Isaiah 52:14). But He shall see and be satisfied with His travail ( Isaiah 53:11). He willingly suffered in our place to fulfill the wish of the Father; but also came to serve and not be served as an example to us. ( Mark 10:45). We shall see Him exalted and victorious and no longer suffering; and no doubt He will rejoice for us as well. Therefore; we endure knowing that patience will have it's perfect work ( James 1:4).
This doesn't mean we don't long every day to see an end to suffering; but we know that we are gaining further eternal rewards in continuing to live faithfully until death or He comes on this earth. This should be a motivation primarily for others; we see the beginnings of what surely will be increasing numbers of Christians persecuted and martyred as we approach the end. We weary having not only to deal with our own sin and the terrible conditions of the last days but the spiritual warfare which is no doubt at fever pitch today. We must continue to boldly declare His coming conquest and victory even when looking like fools ( 1 Cor. 1:25)
"Knowing this, that the trying of your faith worketh patience." James 1:3 KJV
God being all knowing. How long will the test or trying of faith last? When will the trying of your faith end? When will tests and trials end. It will last as long as God allows it to last. Why so long? Because God knows how much a believer an bear (even though the believer, themselves may not realize how much they can actually bear). The trying of our faith comes from God. He (God) created the test therefore He knows how long it should last. God created and administers all tests according to each ones ability. The testing of our faith comes from God. If the test lasts longer than we think it should then the believer needs to exam and question themselves as to why God saw fit to give a test that does not seem to end. A believer should be glad if God allows some relief or happy times during the trying of their faith and if the trying of faith lasts a long time or seems like it will never end then know that God is working things out for the good of the believer (you want to go to heaven right?). If a believer wants to see God's face in peace, a believer (with God's help) must endure to the end, wavering or wanting nothing (in other words you want to live a right according to the word of God), "be steadfast" "be unmovable" "continue in the faith" "be Christ minded" "focus on the things of God" God knows where a believer (or sinner is) at all times "he never sleeps nor slumbers" "the only wise God." It's not so much that the test is so trying it's that sinful flesh is so corrupt...and it will take the trying or testing of a believers faith to ensure a believer qualifies to exist in the presence of God, here on earth and then in eternity. "be still and know that He is God"
I have a new manager on my concourse at the airport named Sam, a Believer and former pastor in Africa. Asking for prayer for him for godly wisdom for an easy and light transition ( Matthew 11:28-30), wisdom to learn the work culture and rightly identify issues ( James 1:5), he is fastened like a peg in the position, in a secure place ( Isaiah 22: 23)
"A bishop then must be blameless, the husband of one wife, vigilant, sober, of good behaviour, given to hospitality, apt to teach;" 1 Timothy 3:2 KJV
Being blameless means having the ability and capacity to be responsible to duties and obligations; and be an example for others on how a responsible person should act or carry themselves.
Earlier in I Timothy 3 it states that if one desires the office of a Bishop. "This is a true saying, If a man desire the office of a bishop, he desireth a good work." 1 Timothy 3:1 KJV. Any good desires a man (or woman) has comes from God. "Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and cometh down from the Father of lights, with whom is no variableness, neither shadow of turning." James 1:17 KJV The desire itself to become a Bishop comes from God. According to scripture only men (or males) can become Bishops.
The fear of the Lord. With my scripture memory still lacking I will cite the verse "The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom" and then ask the readers to discover how many times that is mentioned and perhaps do a further study on the subject. Today's sermon was from 1 Peter specifically in verse 17 discussing how as believers we should have fear that in general isn't with terror but at times if we have sin in our lives it probably some of that should shake us up. The story of Ananias and Sapphira was examined as to the reaction of the church afterwards and the Holy fear and terror invoked ( Acts 5:1-11).
It is easy for us to sit in our comfy place and read about destruction of whole cities or the future Tribulation and not have it speak to us. Some want to symbolize some of the literal statements of judgment; but I am not focusing on that. We can look at events in the far past and future as so remote from us that we don't sense the relevance; specifically it's prompting us to get busy spreading the Gospel and keep ourselves unspotted from the world. ( James 1:27). With so many trying to predict the time the Lord is coming back and put together all the puzzle pieces can ignore the many CONDITIONAL promises which are just as true. Specific behaviors good or bad bear certain fruits as well as resulting in blessing or cursing. I have seen this true in at least one case warning a person about continuing in certain behavior (in that case I believe it was followed by a mental breakdown). We can't be sure when we will reap what we sow; it is for sure in final judgment. This seems very cut and dry; for instance verses talking about the insanity of a foolish man committing adultery. Proverbs 22:14 brings the point out that men who follow God escape these traps but the wicked are caught in their own traps that they try to ensnare others ( Psalm 141:10 also found in Proverbs and no doubt other Psalms).
We are perfect because we are "in Christ Jesus" by His saving work. We are never perfect due to avoiding sin actions. Our whole being is corrupted by sin. It tempts us in our sinful nature and then this nature produces sin in us. ( James 1:13-15)
And every good thing we do is but filthy rags before God, who alone is perfectly holy and righteous. Every good thing we do is tainted by our sinful nature. But even so, we do not give up on fighting against the sinful nature within and also desire and work at obeying God. But this is not done in our own strength, but in the power that Jesus had to live a perfect life and that raised Him from the dead that we have at our avail through the indwelling Holy Spirit.
Our holiness comes from Jesus' righteousness PERIOD. We on our own do not have the righteousness of God that is acceptable to Him. We receive this righteousness from Jesus' and believe what is said in Scriptures that His life, death, and resurrection cleanses us from all iniquity so that we can stand before the Father without sin, but it is always Jesus' sin-free and incorruptible character that merits us this place of right standing before God.
While it is true that positionally we are sin-free in Christ, in moment to moment living we are not. As some say, we have faults, shortcomings, weaknesses, errors in our thinking and judgment and actions that are somewhat automatic. This is the corruption in us which God never has. He alone is perfect and pure and righteous and holy ALWAYS. Though some do not see these propensities as sin, I do, because of what is said about the heart of man being deceitfully wicked above all things and desperately so, and without cure (by man) to paraphrase Jer. 17:9. No one can truly know how wicked our own heart is, only God knows. So, anyone who says that they are sinless and do not sin are deceived, as Jeremiah says.
Part 8. J Vernon Mcgee. (Paul and James Use Abraham to Illustrate.)
So Paul's example has to do with the early part of Abraham's life. When James presents his argument, we find that he deals with the end of Abraham's life and the offering of Isaac upon the altar. This was the last appearance of God to this man, and James says, in essence, "Now here is the example of what faith has done in this man's life - it has brought him to make the supreme sacrifice."
Look again at James 2:21: "Was not Abraham, our father, justified by works, when he had offered Isaac, his son, upon the altar?" Now in what way does the offering of Isaac reveal the fact that Abraham was justified by works? To see this clearly, we need to notice some very familiar facts. These interesting incidents took place toward the end of the life of Abraham when God called upon him to make the great sacrifice - which was the supreme crisis in his life.
God's Test - Genesis 22.
"And it came to pass after these things, that God did test Abraham" ( Genesis 22:1). The King James Version uses the word "tempt," but the New Scofield Reference Bible changes it to "test." I know that it's the same Greek word that you will find for "tempt," but you will also recall that James says,
Let no man say when he is tempted, I am tempted of God; for God cannot be tempted with evil, neither tempteth he any man. ( James 1:13)
Now when a man is tempted with evil, it is never God tempting him; it is Satan. God does not tempt men with evil; He tempts them with the good. He tests men in that sense. God's tests always lead to discipline and development of Christian character and life, while the tests and temptations of Satan always lead to the destruction of the life of the individual. Here we see that Abraham is being tested of God for his own good.
Hebrews 2:7 Jesus was fully human and was tempted just as we are Hebrews 4:15 God cannot be tempted, James 1:13. 1 Corinthians 15:24-28Philippians 2:9 again my understanding is all was in and through Jesus in the plan and forethought in the mind of God, logos.
1 Peter 1:19-20 Yes in God's plan my understanding the Greek is not by whom but through whom the Greek word dia, same as in John 1:3 it is through Him not by Him. In Jesus and through Jesus being the first in God's plan came everything like you said "God's Plan & Purpose for redemption" the new creation that was in God's plan.
Jesus was the beginning in God's plan and was begotten in Mary's womb. Like today where you and I are to God it is the same as if we were there with Him on the new earth and His plan has been completed. He is the beginning and the end, and it started with Jesus His Son before any creation and in and through Jesus came all and in the fulness of time He was brought forth into the world.
As in John 1 God's word was manifested in the flesh of His Son Jesus. When Jesus was anointed and became the Messiah/Christ by the Holy Spirit, God was in Jesus and the words Jesus spoke were God's words. The light that shined through Jesus was God, the works were done by the Spirit of God in Jesus, all was done for the glory of God.
I know you may not agree but that is my understanding and if you have any other questions, I will reply to the best of my ability, I own you that. Can I answer all, no I cannot, there are many verses that I am still in search of the truth of.
"I don't believe that the Pope is speaking for God allowing for same sex marriages and the Pope isn't great, matter of fact I believe the the Pope is Satan himself." I don't believe he speaks for God either and, indeed, he personifies Satan himself. I was being factious. I left Catholicism too when I left my Catholic home at 18. I couldn't stand it and was so relieved when it was in my past.
I don't know exactly what you mean when you say "and have been searching for a long time for the "true" religion." "True religion and undefiled before God and the Father is this, To visit the fatherless and widows in their affliction, and to keep himself unspotted from the world." James 1:7. Because you are a true believer, God is in your heart, soul and mind. You belong to God. Those who are true believers are The Church of God, sometimes called the Kingdom of God. You are a part of the Body of Christ. This is your religion. James is saying if you love God you will show His love unconditionally, but especially to the needy and keep yourself holy. If you wonder how you can "keep unspotted in the world" do this - read Exodus 20: 1-17. These are the ten commandments of God-not laws-commandments written by God Himself. "For this is the love of God, that we keep his commandments: and his commandments are not grievous." 1 John 5: 3 and Jesus said: "For my yoke is easy and my burden is light." Matthew 11:30. Some Christians teach a Sinning/Christian doctrine but this is false. We may have weakness and faults as a true believer. These are not sins. When we are born again we are not "perfect", of course, but God helps us overcome these weaknesses and faults by maturing in Him but we are to "go and sin no more." John 8: 3-11/ 11- ....... And Jesus said unto her, Neither do I condemn thee: go, and sin no more." I know I have been preaching :) and if I have presumed things about you that are wrong please forgive me, I just want to help if I can. God Bless :) I hope you will respond.
I will send this to you as I feel we consider each other as brothers. I thought I was clear when I ended my conversation about the Trinity, but it does not sound like that is not understood with the comments I have read.
I will ask this question not to stump anyone, but it is one I have not ever answered.
First, I would like to say Jesus was before any creation, He is the beginning of creation, and all was created after Him and through Him, but it was in God's plan of creation that Jesus being appointed heir to, Heb 1:1-4. Jesus was the beginning of creation Rev. 3:14 and in the fullness of time He was conceived, Ephesians 1:9-10. There were two Adams and Jesus is the last Adam both Adams who were men who came into this world without sin. The first sinned and the last lived perfect totally obedient to the Father.
Question, Jesus was conceived and brought forth the only begotten Son of God to die for the sins of mankind. If Jesus was preexisting, an immortal being, God the son. How can an immortal being die? How can God be tempted, James 1:13, but it is clear Jesus was tempted as we are, Hebrews 4:15 and He died shedding His blood to cover our sins.
Can God die? If not, how are our sins covered? Could the works of the devil be undone if God fulfilled the law that was made for man? The law was made for man and a man had to live without sin to fulfill it. What is the meaning of Acts 2:24 if Jesus was not a man?
Sorry to send this to you but anyone can answer, Love you brother.
Well my opinion is that healing IS actually a matter of faith. I don't know you and the circumstances you are living under so I am talking in general. When Jesus was ministering in this world nobody who came to Him and requested their heailing was left uncured, unless there was unbelief. Mark 6:5-6, "And he could there do no mighty work, save that he laid his hands upon a few sick folk, and healed them. And he marvelled because of their unbelief...". So it seems it was not possible even for Jesus to heal some people. Not because He did not have the power to do so but because the power of God has to meet our faith to be energized. Faith is the most essential thing in the christian belief. Through faith Abraham was considered righteous by God, through his faith he almost sacrificed Isaac and through his faith he received him back. Through our faith in Jesus' sacrifice we receive eternal life. God has chosen faith to be the condition of receiving things by Him, material things or spiritual. Without faith nobody receives anything from God. James 1:6-7, " But let him ask in faith, nothing wavering. For he that wavereth is like a wave of the sea driven with the wind and tossed. For let not that man think that he shall receive any thing of the Lord. "
Jesus gave his life for us not only for our righteousness but for our illnesses as well. Isaiah 53:5, "But he was wounded for our transgressions, he was bruised for our iniquities: the chastisement of our peace was upon him; and with his stripes we are healed." But as we need faith to be saved, similarly we need faith for the healing of our body and soul. Without faith non of those comes to us. We are not any different from other people, we get ill like everybody else. But we were given the right from God to ask Him to cure us and receive it. So lets energize our faith. Being close to God uplifts our faith. So lets move closer to Him. GBU
The joy of the LORD is my strength! Many times I have to remind myself of the persecutions I will go through and have gone through because of my faith in CHRIST JESUS.
I thank the brethren on this forum for their faithfulness and love for the word and the fellow saints. Stand and be encouraged for as GOD reminds us, this too will pass. These verses have helped me... Hebrews 10:25; 1 Corinthians 10:13; probably one of the hardest for me - Romans 8:28. And many more- I'm sure veteran saints on this forum can add others too.
It is difficult, but we are called to be a blessing to as many as possible without expecting any type of return - horizontally. Our blessing will come vertically, from above,
James 1:17 Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and cometh down from the Father of lights, with whom is no variableness, neither shadow of turning.
Sorry Brethren! didn't mean to be preachy.
GOD to shine HIS blessed face on you and your family during this wonderful time of praising of our SAVIOR.
We are; indeed "seated in heavenly places" now if we are filled with the Holy Ghost. ( Eph. 2:6). The difference between a new convert who dies shortly after and someone who has truly believed but has lived for some time compromised is that one would have no reward and one would suffer LOSS ( 1 Cor 3:13-15). A reward; unlike a gift can be forfeited although to be truly saved we must be the recipient of the free "gift" of God ( Rom. 6:23).
The rewards of heaven are symbolized by crowns; and such things as patiently waiting for the Lord's return; Pastors and elders have crowns given for faithful service. Martyrdom also is a way someone can receive a crown which in itself is an instantaneous action. ( James 1:12). Dying to self; however is usually a prolonged process for a believer. God keeps His servants here normally for a period of time so that they can bear fruit and be witnesses of the Good News before they are martyred or have a natural death.
The crowns cast at the feet of Christ in Revelation are only symbols; of course indicating the authority of the rewards of a servant of Christ. Ruling and reigning with Him; no doubt will be with some in as high a position as David who is promised to return in the Millennium ( Hosea 3:5 and other verses). Of course it is better to be a doorkeeper in the Lord's presence than lost in outer darkness. (see Psalm 84:10).
As a personal application; Victoria I would encourage you to continue in prayers in your closet as it were and not letting your right hand know what your left hand is doing ( Matt. 6:3-4). Good deeds may include exhorting or rebuking someone which may not be appreciated in this lifetime. It may mean lending to someone who can't or won't pay you back in your personal private life. Hunger and thirst for righteousness is never fully satisfied this side of heaven and living Godly through sufferings and chastisments is scriptural but not popular today. All Godly suffer persecution (2 Tim3:12
This is my favorite scripture because, you can dig into this scripture really deeply! James 1:19-20 is literally the main learning point of the old saying "God gave us two ears and one mouth for a reason", we should should use our ears to listen and learn and when we gain wisdom through this we can then use that wisdom to teach through our mouths; Cross References= Proverbs 17:27 and Proverbs 14:29! James 1:21-24 goes to show that we should lay aside all disobedience and defiance, read the word and live it; Romans 2:13, Jeremiah 44:16, and 1 Thessalonians 1:5!
I thank you for your reply but my understanding isn't quite where it should be. You say cease from my works yet I am to walk in His statutes and judgements and DO THEM. I'm sorry for my lack of understanding but this confuses me. I just want to be a ( James 1:23) doer of the word and not a hearer. lol
I hope you don't mind if I reply as to what you asked GiGi, "Is anger a sin?
Yes ,it appears to be so according to Scripture: Eph. 4:26-27, Col. 3:8 includes it with wrath, malice, blasphemy, and filthy communication. James 1:19-20, and more.
The word anger is associated with wrath and abundant throughout the OT. It is attributed to God. Should I conclude it is only a sin when we display anger and wrath? Help me out
Yet it seems you were justifying it as a righteous act because it appears that Jesus displayed anger.
I'm not insinuating you are right or wrong; just looking for a clear explanation. I'm probably misunderstanding what's being said.
What does it mean to believe? What is the evidence that we believe? As Paul said, it is like running a race, when we start this race, we believe we are going to finish, and with God's Spirit we have all the determination and motivation we are not only going to finish this race we are going to win this race.
We are saved! We are being saved! We shall be saved! When we start, are all our sins forgiven, our past, present, and our future sins the moment we accept Jesus Christ as our Savior and are baptized? Is our salvation guaranteed and we cannot lose it or fall out of grace regardless?
We are saved. Eph. 2:5 When we accept the gospel and are baptized our sins are blotted out, Isaiah 44:22Acts 3:19 and we become a child/son/daughter of God, John 1:12 we are justified, made righteous by the blood of Christ and the Holy Spirit dwells in us, and now we begin a relationship through God's Spirit, and God and Jesus abide in us, 2 John 1:9. This is the start of the race, the beginning of our salvation.
We are being saved. Philippians 1:6 Hearing the Word one believes and is baptized into Christ they are made clean (justification) the work of grace, and the Lord will continue working in us until He returns if we abide in Him John 15:3-5. How does God complete his good work in us? Testing James 1:2-4, chastising Heb. 12:6-7 Our relationship. If we abide in Him, Jesus, and God abides in us. The branches bear the fruit of the vine, the vine produces the fruit not us/branch, sanctification. We are running the race Philippians 2:12
We shall be saved. Redemption and glorification. Our full salvation comes at the end, when Jesus returns. Luke 21:28 "being now justified" We started the race. We are being saved, "being reconciled" we are running the race, 2 Cor. 5:18. We shall be saved at the end of the race. Romans 13:11.
This we must do for the rest of our lives, to live in repentance and obedience walking in the Spirit, not in this world. We must include these scriptures that show during our life and be sanctified one can fail, fall away whatever we want to call it, Heb. 3:12-131 John 1:72 Peter 2:20 we are told to keep ourselves Jude 21 If we hold fast the confidence, Heb. 3:6 If we faint not, Gal. 6:9 If ye continue in the faith, Col. 1:23 If ye do these things, 2 Peter 1:10, Paul said this about himself 1 Cor. 9:25-27.
Do we err when we say I was saved on whatever date when we should say my salvation started and I was justified made righteous, and I am now walking in the Spirit of God looking for the day I will be glorified when My Savior Jesus Christ returns and I will be like Him and as long as I breathe I will continue to walk in the Spirit of God as I am sanctified to be made perfect as My Lord Jesus is perfect? We must, every day be obedient and ask for forgiveness and guidance to keep going for the goal.
When are we saved is it when we accept Jesus as our Savior, if then do we overlook we must endure until the end. We must have the earnest/downpayment of the Spirit 2 Cor. 5:5, a downpayment for the final purchase when Jesus returns to claim His elect. We must know and realize that for whom the downpayment has been placed it must be intact when Jesus returns. We must endure until the end. Matt. 10:22Matt. 24:13John 6:27 As Abraham Heb. 6:13-16James 1:12
I wish I could explain this better; I feel I have come up short, but I feel those who believe when walking down the aisle and confess they believe in Jesus they have a nonrefundable ticket to eternity, that is wrong.
The Grace of God that appears to all mankind, begotten Paul & he declares in 1Cor 15:10 made what he now is.
What the Apostles received by the Revelation of Jesus Christ from His Grace appearance, they wrote down in the Epistle's that bares their name, & they believed & attain unto this knowledge by the diligent exercising thereof Hebrews 5:14Hebrews 12:11Philippians 3:16
Here's a small unfolding of His Grace / Light
They let Patience James 1:4,25 James 5:111Pet 5:9,10
Make you Perfect Hebrews 13:21
Be ye Perfect Matt 5:48 indicating this perfection is the same as the Father, there's not a different standard of holiness for mankind describe here.
The angel declared to Mary, Matt 1:21 not in their sin!
Folks,
Everything that God does is perfect, do you really believe that He would sent His only begotten Son to suffer all that He did for our sakes, & it not be a perfect restoration for His beloved creations.
I tell you by the Scriptures, sound reasoning & the Holy Ghost it's goes beyond the state of Adam innocents before he fell
Rom 6:3-5 the newness of life spoken of here is the likeness of His resurrection life & that is attain by working of His Divine Power 2Pet 1:2-4
I'm talking Grace, here now in this life. Don't be deceived, it's accompanies all that Christ experience, 1Pet 2:21 this too is apart of being make in His image & likeness, walking as He walk, the Apostles final got it after Pentecost, being baptized unto His death. This is when 1John 1:1-5 truly came into spiritual experiential experience. John 7:17
John 4:23,24 True worship is doing His will
& that will is reveal by His Grace / Light appearance in your heart. 2Cor 4:6,7
I have in other posts described why the Rapture is going to occur. It fulfills scriptures such as Malachi 3:16 in the book of remembrance of those who OFTEN talk about the Lord and it is to reward those who patiently wait for His coming ( James 1:12 and other supporting text). My commentary also discussed how it is for the reunion of all the saints; past and present at the Lord's feet; and for us to be presented in the church as "kings and priests" who will rule and reign with Him ( Rev. 5:10). We are the armies of heaven who will eventually return with Christ in Revelation 19:14; and be accompanied by angels as well.
Psalm 40:3 shows how many shall see and fear us being lifted up from the miry clay (verses 1-2). The provoking of the Jews to jealousy ( Romans 11:14) perhaps will occur when the times of the Gentiles are full ( Romans 11:25). In any event the time of Jacob's trouble is specifically for the week of testing for seven years ( Jeremiah 30:7; Daniel 9:26-27) which is also known as Daniel's 70th week.
Let us assume for a moment that the Rapture IS going to happen before the end of this year for instance. How many are ready for His coming? How many have their garments unspotted and unwrinkled ( Eph. 5:27). I have mentioned before that whether people believe the Rapture is Pretribulation or some other later date; it is the fruit of our lives that is most important. A theoretical concept won't keep those away who are true servants of the Master; but I guarantee those who are espousing a PreTrib Rapture but whose lives are not according to His will will by and large be shocked in many cases being left behind. Whether all these people never believed inthe first place or the Rapture is a reward issue; surely a great multitude will be saved but die as martyrs in the Tribulation ( Rev. 7:9). That is the purpose for the Tribulation for God's children; along with gathering the unregenerate for destruction.
My last posting ended with a brief discussion of spiritual rewards. If we never consider these things; we are in danger of just wanting "fire insurance" when coming to Christ from fear of hell. That lack of love for God will blind us to the need for sanctification; and we will never want to go beyond what we consider the bare minimum to ensure our place in heaven. The basic point here is that sanctification goes on from the point of salvation until death (or the Rapture) which finally brings glorification; or final salvation of the body from sin and decay. So we need here to discuss what sanctification means.
Sanctification. 2 Timothy 2:12 says that if we suffer with Him we will reign with Him. Jesus spoke to the Disciples about the cost involved in following Him; and James speaks of pure joy in suffering in James 1:2-4. The Apostles need no further case as to the cost of following Him as all but one were martyred (and apparently they may have tried to kill John before Patmos as well). We see how Peter failed Christ when he said he would die for him yet denied Christ at his trial. Whenever that verse comes up in James I comment that I am still working on that; I feel like a hypocrite otherwise.
Too often we look at dying to self as a martyrdom issue rather than looking at a progressive lifestyle of dying to self day by day; which also was the example of Christ. Once we practice loving others above ourselves for a long time it is much easier to handle our fate no matter how bleak (or at least less hard). Again; this is where the rubber meets the road. With today's "easy believism" we see little exhortation of others ( Hebrews 3:13); we see Christ being perhaps the "center" of our lives in many of today's churches rather than BEING our life and our old life dead and buried with Him.
So far we are discussing things that accompany salvation. Now I will begin to quote verses to examine warnings against falling away
Rugged individualism; taken too far results in pride and that comes before a fall. ( Prov. 16:18). A sluggard; however will not eat of his own harvest ( Prov. 19:24 loosely translated. Proverbs 20:4 in a similar light says a sluggard won't plow in the cold and later will go hungry. Today; we are more or less totally dependant on food supply brought through transport and our current economic infrastructure; except for the small percent of farmers and those growing substantial gardens or hunting for meat who are off the grid. This; and providing a generator and having sufficient money and provisions for disaster is probably lacking for anything more than a few days for many people. This is something not everyone can afford to do; but for those who can we need to consider our other brothers and sisters in the Lord we can help; to be the "head not the tail" in situations of lending or giving to those in need ( Deut. 28:13). Such wisdom comes from above.
Training our arm for war ( Psalm 18:34; Psalm 144:1) may not be popular if we are pacifists; but if we are to fight it should be something we are well trained in (such as those in Israel who have mandatory time in the Army to ensure the survival of the State). Such an attitude surely will keep our schools and communities safer if authorities and parents as well as children themselves are tought PROPERLY how to defend themselves.
There is no substitute; of course for prayer; and trusting God in our protection through angelic assistance ( Psalm 91:11-12). All of our strength of course is dependant upon the Lord. We are asked in James to seek wisdom to obtain it ( James 1:5). Balance is needed; we cannot naively trust our government to be able to protect us from all ills; and with its deficit if the Lord tarries we should prepare ourselves for much less help from them financially and otherwise.
For now let us all seek to "work heartily unto the Lord" if we can. ( Col. 3
No Gumby 713, the 2 Timothy 3:17 verse is not a typo. It's just an old English spelling (back from the 17th Century) of our modern word, 'thoroughly'. Another example of this old spelling is in James 1:2 ('divers'); nothing to do with those diving into the depths of temptations, but our spelling today would be, 'diverse' (many, various).
Father we are men and if we speak as men then all our words is in vain but if you touch this words, each one of us may be edified and glorify you amen.
I believe in the Lord Jesus Christ who is is the son of the living God and he died on the cross for my sin and rose on the third day and sit on the right hand hand of poor Amen.
-The law or the commandment of Moses was given to man to obey and if anyone obeyed he was made righteous by it. and in the New Testament at the cross by The Blood of our Lord Jesus Christ the son of the living God, the righteous requirement of the law was abolished and when Jesus Christ son of the living God gave up His ghosts at the cross the temple vail was torn in two signifying the way to the Holy of Holiest was open that thus
it is written
Hebrews 4:16
16.Let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of need.
-it is required of Christians who been redeem by Grace and faith alone and not by corruptible things like silver, gold or tradition bought by our father but by the preciouse blood Of out Lord Jesus Christ to be obedient to the Commandment of God and not only to obey but to be doer of the the WORD OF GOD.
as it is written in
James 1:22-25
But be ye doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving your own selves. 23For if any be a hearer of the word, and not a doer, he is like unto a man beholding his natural face in a glass: 24for he beholdeth himself, and goeth his way, and straightway forgetteth what manner of man he was. 25But whoso looketh into the perfect law of liberty, and continueth therein, he being not a forgetful hearer, but a doer of the work, this man shall be blessed in his deed
The way I interpret your question is how much must I obey God to get into heaven? What is the bare minimum?
Because some feel inconvenienced to follow Jesus- whether embarrassment or other excuses. And do you have to obey the 10 commandments or any of the other commandments in the Bible? You already know what God says- He called them "commandments" for a reason, but some want to be comforted and hear that you can do whatever you want, whatever feels good, in this world and be ok? If that the hope, that's Satan's message.
It looks like this has received a lot of comments. Some are pushing false teachings which should be called out. It doesn't matter what man says, but what God says, right? Isn't it better to please God than please man?
"But be ye doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving your own selves." James 1:22 KJV
This clearly says to be a doer of the Word. It's not enough to just hear it and do nothing. Christianity is an action. I don't see anywhere in the Bible saying you're saved on earth before you're even judged. Please share verses that back that up, because I haven't seen any. I see verses saying you can have assurance of salvation. There's verses saying we will be saved, but it doesn't say right now before our life is even over- I believe that's the assumed part that deviates from scripture.
"But whosoever shall deny me before men, him will I also deny before my Father which is in heaven." Matthew 10:33
Baptism:
"He that believeth and is baptized shall be saved; but he that believeth not shall be damned." Mark 16:16
I think its risky to intentionally disobey Jesus, then expect all the benefits.
"And why call ye me, Lord, Lord, and do not the things which I say?" Luke 6:46
If you don't obey, why even call him Lord? You're not even a follower. This is my interpretation of what Jesus is saying here.
Matthew 7:24-27 - Jesus's point of this parable is obeying Him. "doing" "doeth"
Thank you, God, who cannot be tempted of evil, James 1:13 or lie, Titus 1:2. God could not fulfill the law, flesh had to fulfill it because the curse of sin was on flesh. How could you fulfill a law if you were not capable of breaking it? We are told Jesus the Son of God was tempted as we are, Hebrews 4:15. He was made flesh for the suffering of death, Hebrews 2:9.
2 Cor. 5:21 For he hath made him to be sin for us, who knew no sin; that we might be made the righteousness of God in him. Jesus had a will of his own but was obedient to the Father, Luke 22:42. Jesus did the works of the Father, John 5:36. Jesus was sent by the Father, John 4:34John 7:16. Jesus did all the miracles by the Spirit of God that was given to Him without measure, Matt. 12:28John 3:34, when He was anointed at the Jordan, Mark 1:10Luke 4:18.
I hope this is correct forgive me if I am wrong. The Father is God but is not the Son and is not the Holy Spirit. The Son is God but is not the Father and is not the Holy Spirit. The Holy Spirit is God but is not the Father and is not the Son. One God is three coexistent, co-eternal, and co-equal Persons.
If I may ask. If they are three persons, who is the Father of Jesus the Son of God? Matt. 1:18Luke 1:35. Jesus many times said He has a God and a Father, Matt. 7:21Matt. 12:50John 20:172 Cor. 11:31Ephesians 1:31 Peter 1:3. Jesus came in His Father's name, John 5:43.
My understanding, this is not a mystery that cannot be understood. God is a Spirit, John 4:24 It is His Spirit that dwelleth in us, 1 Cor. 3:161 Corinthians 2:10-12. God is Spirit, God is Holy. It is the Spirit of God that is the Holy Spirit.
Paul never used the Holy Spirit in his salutations. Jesus was begotten by His Father, Heb. 1:5. Jesus said His Father was greater than He John 14:28. Rev. 21:22 And I saw no temple therein: for the Lord God Almighty and the Lamb are the temple of it.
The Book of James is not a doctrinal book. James is a commentary on the Sermon on the Mount given by Jesus in Matthew Chapters 5 through 7. Everything that Jesus taught in the Sermon on the Mount is found in the letter of James.
The letter of James is made up of a series of tests by which the genuineness of salvation can be determined.
IV. DATE OF THE WRITING:
It was written around 45 A.D. Some even think it might be one of the first letters written in the New Testament, right after the persecution in Acts Chapter 7. Josephus the church historian tells us James was martyred in 62 A.D.
V. TO WHOM IT WAS WRITTEN:
James 1:1 tells us that James was written to the Twelve Tribes which were scattered. These were Jewish believers who had scattered outside of Israel because of persecution. This group is officially known as the DIASPORA. That's a Greek word that means scattering. They were the scattered ones.
So, all Jews who had to leave Jerusalem and Israel because of persecution, they are all called the Diaspora, even to this day.
James 2:9-12: James is writing in these verses about those who would "keep (fully obey) the whole law", yet go astray even by committing one sin in a moment of time, having demonstrated their inability to keep (continually uphold) the Law as required. "So speak ye ( James 1:26), and so do ( James 2:17), as they that shall be judged by the law of liberty (the Law believers are under, 2 Corinthians 2:17, Galatians 5:1, James 1:25)". The Law of Liberty, can also be referred to the Law of the Spirit Who gives Liberty ( 2 Corinthians 3:17, Romans 8:2), assures our hearts that we are accepted of the Lord because we have been forgiven & the Gift of the Holy Spirit continually ministers to our hearts & lives to help us live holy lives or lead us/discipline us when we stray off course.
This Liberty, the Law could never give - Israel always remained fearful of it, eventually leading them into idolatry & debauchery, but to those IN Christ Jesus there is now no condemnation who walk after the Spirit ( Romans 8:1) - we should not be bound to the letter that had as its goal to expose & destroy souls, but to the Spirit Who gives Power & Life to obey God perfectly, "hating even the garment spotted by the flesh" ( Jude 1:23). Only the Laws given us by the Spirit to our hearts cover every area of our lives, ministering to us in His Way (& not in human strength), so we can live above the letter's demands but as new creations in Christ. There was nothing wrong with the 10 Commandments, for they are from God & His Truth - but they were for Israel alone, for their conduct before God & man, to show them their sin, God's requirements, & prepare them to approach God in Love, Truth, & Faith. All who did at that time were accepted by their faith alone ( Hebrews 11:39,40) & not on how well they kept the Law. Romans 8:3,4 (we allow the righteousness of the Law to work & be fulfilled in us by God's Spirit - never appealing to the letter, which is devoid of life). Every blessing.
As we apply these verses to prayer; we may consider that His victory means our victory; in the sense of our eternal future living with Him forever in heaven as well as now; when we suffer for His Name's sake we are fulfilling the Great Commission; and are assured of a reward in heaven as Jesus alludes to in the Sermon on the Mount. All of our life should therefore be wrapped up in the greater purposes; sowing in tears to reap later in joy ( Psalm 126:5-6). The meaning and purpose of earthly blessings common to man is only appreciated in the light of the weight of eternal glory. We ask for good things so that we can further His Kingdom; especially in regard to the filling of the Holy Spirit ( Luke 11:13). In praise; we ask that the King be exalted; and of course that starts in our hearts.
We look at Christ who suffered and His visage was marred more than any man ( Isaiah 52:14). But He shall see and be satisfied with His travail ( Isaiah 53:11). He willingly suffered in our place to fulfill the wish of the Father; but also came to serve and not be served as an example to us. ( Mark 10:45). We shall see Him exalted and victorious and no longer suffering; and no doubt He will rejoice for us as well. Therefore; we endure knowing that patience will have it's perfect work ( James 1:4).
This doesn't mean we don't long every day to see an end to suffering; but we know that we are gaining further eternal rewards in continuing to live faithfully until death or He comes on this earth. This should be a motivation primarily for others; we see the beginnings of what surely will be increasing numbers of Christians persecuted and martyred as we approach the end. We weary having not only to deal with our own sin and the terrible conditions of the last days but the spiritual warfare which is no doubt at fever pitch today. We must continue to boldly declare His coming conquest and victory even when looking like fools ( 1 Cor. 1:25)
God being all knowing. How long will the test or trying of faith last? When will the trying of your faith end? When will tests and trials end. It will last as long as God allows it to last. Why so long? Because God knows how much a believer an bear (even though the believer, themselves may not realize how much they can actually bear). The trying of our faith comes from God. He (God) created the test therefore He knows how long it should last. God created and administers all tests according to each ones ability. The testing of our faith comes from God. If the test lasts longer than we think it should then the believer needs to exam and question themselves as to why God saw fit to give a test that does not seem to end. A believer should be glad if God allows some relief or happy times during the trying of their faith and if the trying of faith lasts a long time or seems like it will never end then know that God is working things out for the good of the believer (you want to go to heaven right?). If a believer wants to see God's face in peace, a believer (with God's help) must endure to the end, wavering or wanting nothing (in other words you want to live a right according to the word of God), "be steadfast" "be unmovable" "continue in the faith" "be Christ minded" "focus on the things of God" God knows where a believer (or sinner is) at all times "he never sleeps nor slumbers" "the only wise God." It's not so much that the test is so trying it's that sinful flesh is so corrupt...and it will take the trying or testing of a believers faith to ensure a believer qualifies to exist in the presence of God, here on earth and then in eternity. "be still and know that He is God"
I have been thinking of you and praying for you. So glad to hear from you again.
Here are some verses that may be helpful. The Lord will guide you in the verses to share with your riend.
Ps . 31.5 Jn. 14:6
Ps. 119:43 Gal. 2:5
Is. 45:19 Eph.1:13
Dan. 10:21 Col. 1:5
James 1:18
Being blameless means having the ability and capacity to be responsible to duties and obligations; and be an example for others on how a responsible person should act or carry themselves.
Earlier in I Timothy 3 it states that if one desires the office of a Bishop. "This is a true saying, If a man desire the office of a bishop, he desireth a good work." 1 Timothy 3:1 KJV. Any good desires a man (or woman) has comes from God. "Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and cometh down from the Father of lights, with whom is no variableness, neither shadow of turning." James 1:17 KJV The desire itself to become a Bishop comes from God. According to scripture only men (or males) can become Bishops.
A Bishop must be blameless (responsible).
The fear of the Lord. With my scripture memory still lacking I will cite the verse "The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom" and then ask the readers to discover how many times that is mentioned and perhaps do a further study on the subject. Today's sermon was from 1 Peter specifically in verse 17 discussing how as believers we should have fear that in general isn't with terror but at times if we have sin in our lives it probably some of that should shake us up. The story of Ananias and Sapphira was examined as to the reaction of the church afterwards and the Holy fear and terror invoked ( Acts 5:1-11).
It is easy for us to sit in our comfy place and read about destruction of whole cities or the future Tribulation and not have it speak to us. Some want to symbolize some of the literal statements of judgment; but I am not focusing on that. We can look at events in the far past and future as so remote from us that we don't sense the relevance; specifically it's prompting us to get busy spreading the Gospel and keep ourselves unspotted from the world. ( James 1:27). With so many trying to predict the time the Lord is coming back and put together all the puzzle pieces can ignore the many CONDITIONAL promises which are just as true. Specific behaviors good or bad bear certain fruits as well as resulting in blessing or cursing. I have seen this true in at least one case warning a person about continuing in certain behavior (in that case I believe it was followed by a mental breakdown). We can't be sure when we will reap what we sow; it is for sure in final judgment. This seems very cut and dry; for instance verses talking about the insanity of a foolish man committing adultery. Proverbs 22:14 brings the point out that men who follow God escape these traps but the wicked are caught in their own traps that they try to ensnare others ( Psalm 141:10 also found in Proverbs and no doubt other Psalms).
More in part 4
We are perfect because we are "in Christ Jesus" by His saving work. We are never perfect due to avoiding sin actions. Our whole being is corrupted by sin. It tempts us in our sinful nature and then this nature produces sin in us. ( James 1:13-15)
And every good thing we do is but filthy rags before God, who alone is perfectly holy and righteous. Every good thing we do is tainted by our sinful nature. But even so, we do not give up on fighting against the sinful nature within and also desire and work at obeying God. But this is not done in our own strength, but in the power that Jesus had to live a perfect life and that raised Him from the dead that we have at our avail through the indwelling Holy Spirit.
Our holiness comes from Jesus' righteousness PERIOD. We on our own do not have the righteousness of God that is acceptable to Him. We receive this righteousness from Jesus' and believe what is said in Scriptures that His life, death, and resurrection cleanses us from all iniquity so that we can stand before the Father without sin, but it is always Jesus' sin-free and incorruptible character that merits us this place of right standing before God.
While it is true that positionally we are sin-free in Christ, in moment to moment living we are not. As some say, we have faults, shortcomings, weaknesses, errors in our thinking and judgment and actions that are somewhat automatic. This is the corruption in us which God never has. He alone is perfect and pure and righteous and holy ALWAYS. Though some do not see these propensities as sin, I do, because of what is said about the heart of man being deceitfully wicked above all things and desperately so, and without cure (by man) to paraphrase Jer. 17:9. No one can truly know how wicked our own heart is, only God knows. So, anyone who says that they are sinless and do not sin are deceived, as Jeremiah says.
I guess I need to go to part 2.
Part 8. J Vernon Mcgee. (Paul and James Use Abraham to Illustrate.)
So Paul's example has to do with the early part of Abraham's life. When James presents his argument, we find that he deals with the end of Abraham's life and the offering of Isaac upon the altar. This was the last appearance of God to this man, and James says, in essence, "Now here is the example of what faith has done in this man's life - it has brought him to make the supreme sacrifice."
Look again at James 2:21: "Was not Abraham, our father, justified by works, when he had offered Isaac, his son, upon the altar?" Now in what way does the offering of Isaac reveal the fact that Abraham was justified by works? To see this clearly, we need to notice some very familiar facts. These interesting incidents took place toward the end of the life of Abraham when God called upon him to make the great sacrifice - which was the supreme crisis in his life.
God's Test - Genesis 22.
"And it came to pass after these things, that God did test Abraham" ( Genesis 22:1). The King James Version uses the word "tempt," but the New Scofield Reference Bible changes it to "test." I know that it's the same Greek word that you will find for "tempt," but you will also recall that James says,
Let no man say when he is tempted, I am tempted of God; for God cannot be tempted with evil, neither tempteth he any man. ( James 1:13)
Now when a man is tempted with evil, it is never God tempting him; it is Satan. God does not tempt men with evil; He tempts them with the good. He tests men in that sense. God's tests always lead to discipline and development of Christian character and life, while the tests and temptations of Satan always lead to the destruction of the life of the individual. Here we see that Abraham is being tested of God for his own good.
See Part 9. God's Test - Genesis 22 continued.
Part two,
Hebrews 2:7 Jesus was fully human and was tempted just as we are Hebrews 4:15 God cannot be tempted, James 1:13. 1 Corinthians 15:24-28 Philippians 2:9 again my understanding is all was in and through Jesus in the plan and forethought in the mind of God, logos.
1 Peter 1:19-20 Yes in God's plan my understanding the Greek is not by whom but through whom the Greek word dia, same as in John 1:3 it is through Him not by Him. In Jesus and through Jesus being the first in God's plan came everything like you said "God's Plan & Purpose for redemption" the new creation that was in God's plan.
Jesus was the beginning in God's plan and was begotten in Mary's womb. Like today where you and I are to God it is the same as if we were there with Him on the new earth and His plan has been completed. He is the beginning and the end, and it started with Jesus His Son before any creation and in and through Jesus came all and in the fulness of time He was brought forth into the world.
As in John 1 God's word was manifested in the flesh of His Son Jesus. When Jesus was anointed and became the Messiah/Christ by the Holy Spirit, God was in Jesus and the words Jesus spoke were God's words. The light that shined through Jesus was God, the works were done by the Spirit of God in Jesus, all was done for the glory of God.
I know you may not agree but that is my understanding and if you have any other questions, I will reply to the best of my ability, I own you that. Can I answer all, no I cannot, there are many verses that I am still in search of the truth of.
Love you brother and God bless.
RLW
I don't know exactly what you mean when you say "and have been searching for a long time for the "true" religion." "True religion and undefiled before God and the Father is this, To visit the fatherless and widows in their affliction, and to keep himself unspotted from the world." James 1:7. Because you are a true believer, God is in your heart, soul and mind. You belong to God. Those who are true believers are The Church of God, sometimes called the Kingdom of God. You are a part of the Body of Christ. This is your religion. James is saying if you love God you will show His love unconditionally, but especially to the needy and keep yourself holy. If you wonder how you can "keep unspotted in the world" do this - read Exodus 20: 1-17. These are the ten commandments of God-not laws-commandments written by God Himself. "For this is the love of God, that we keep his commandments: and his commandments are not grievous." 1 John 5: 3 and Jesus said: "For my yoke is easy and my burden is light." Matthew 11:30. Some Christians teach a Sinning/Christian doctrine but this is false. We may have weakness and faults as a true believer. These are not sins. When we are born again we are not "perfect", of course, but God helps us overcome these weaknesses and faults by maturing in Him but we are to "go and sin no more." John 8: 3-11/ 11- ....... And Jesus said unto her, Neither do I condemn thee: go, and sin no more." I know I have been preaching :) and if I have presumed things about you that are wrong please forgive me, I just want to help if I can. God Bless :) I hope you will respond.
I will send this to you as I feel we consider each other as brothers. I thought I was clear when I ended my conversation about the Trinity, but it does not sound like that is not understood with the comments I have read.
I will ask this question not to stump anyone, but it is one I have not ever answered.
First, I would like to say Jesus was before any creation, He is the beginning of creation, and all was created after Him and through Him, but it was in God's plan of creation that Jesus being appointed heir to, Heb 1:1-4. Jesus was the beginning of creation Rev. 3:14 and in the fullness of time He was conceived, Ephesians 1:9-10. There were two Adams and Jesus is the last Adam both Adams who were men who came into this world without sin. The first sinned and the last lived perfect totally obedient to the Father.
Question, Jesus was conceived and brought forth the only begotten Son of God to die for the sins of mankind. If Jesus was preexisting, an immortal being, God the son. How can an immortal being die? How can God be tempted, James 1:13, but it is clear Jesus was tempted as we are, Hebrews 4:15 and He died shedding His blood to cover our sins.
Can God die? If not, how are our sins covered? Could the works of the devil be undone if God fulfilled the law that was made for man? The law was made for man and a man had to live without sin to fulfill it. What is the meaning of Acts 2:24 if Jesus was not a man?
Sorry to send this to you but anyone can answer, Love you brother.
God bless,
RLW
Well my opinion is that healing IS actually a matter of faith. I don't know you and the circumstances you are living under so I am talking in general. When Jesus was ministering in this world nobody who came to Him and requested their heailing was left uncured, unless there was unbelief. Mark 6:5-6, "And he could there do no mighty work, save that he laid his hands upon a few sick folk, and healed them. And he marvelled because of their unbelief...". So it seems it was not possible even for Jesus to heal some people. Not because He did not have the power to do so but because the power of God has to meet our faith to be energized. Faith is the most essential thing in the christian belief. Through faith Abraham was considered righteous by God, through his faith he almost sacrificed Isaac and through his faith he received him back. Through our faith in Jesus' sacrifice we receive eternal life. God has chosen faith to be the condition of receiving things by Him, material things or spiritual. Without faith nobody receives anything from God. James 1:6-7, " But let him ask in faith, nothing wavering. For he that wavereth is like a wave of the sea driven with the wind and tossed. For let not that man think that he shall receive any thing of the Lord. "
Jesus gave his life for us not only for our righteousness but for our illnesses as well. Isaiah 53:5, "But he was wounded for our transgressions, he was bruised for our iniquities: the chastisement of our peace was upon him; and with his stripes we are healed." But as we need faith to be saved, similarly we need faith for the healing of our body and soul. Without faith non of those comes to us. We are not any different from other people, we get ill like everybody else. But we were given the right from God to ask Him to cure us and receive it. So lets energize our faith. Being close to God uplifts our faith. So lets move closer to Him. GBU
I thank the brethren on this forum for their faithfulness and love for the word and the fellow saints. Stand and be encouraged for as GOD reminds us, this too will pass. These verses have helped me... Hebrews 10:25; 1 Corinthians 10:13; probably one of the hardest for me - Romans 8:28. And many more- I'm sure veteran saints on this forum can add others too.
It is difficult, but we are called to be a blessing to as many as possible without expecting any type of return - horizontally. Our blessing will come vertically, from above,
James 1:17 Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and cometh down from the Father of lights, with whom is no variableness, neither shadow of turning.
Sorry Brethren! didn't mean to be preachy.
GOD to shine HIS blessed face on you and your family during this wonderful time of praising of our SAVIOR.
Merry Christmas and have a prosperous New Year!
December 20, 2023
The rewards of heaven are symbolized by crowns; and such things as patiently waiting for the Lord's return; Pastors and elders have crowns given for faithful service. Martyrdom also is a way someone can receive a crown which in itself is an instantaneous action. ( James 1:12). Dying to self; however is usually a prolonged process for a believer. God keeps His servants here normally for a period of time so that they can bear fruit and be witnesses of the Good News before they are martyred or have a natural death.
The crowns cast at the feet of Christ in Revelation are only symbols; of course indicating the authority of the rewards of a servant of Christ. Ruling and reigning with Him; no doubt will be with some in as high a position as David who is promised to return in the Millennium ( Hosea 3:5 and other verses). Of course it is better to be a doorkeeper in the Lord's presence than lost in outer darkness. (see Psalm 84:10).
As a personal application; Victoria I would encourage you to continue in prayers in your closet as it were and not letting your right hand know what your left hand is doing ( Matt. 6:3-4). Good deeds may include exhorting or rebuking someone which may not be appreciated in this lifetime. It may mean lending to someone who can't or won't pay you back in your personal private life. Hunger and thirst for righteousness is never fully satisfied this side of heaven and living Godly through sufferings and chastisments is scriptural but not popular today. All Godly suffer persecution (2 Tim3:12
This is my favorite scripture because, you can dig into this scripture really deeply! James 1:19-20 is literally the main learning point of the old saying "God gave us two ears and one mouth for a reason", we should should use our ears to listen and learn and when we gain wisdom through this we can then use that wisdom to teach through our mouths; Cross References= Proverbs 17:27 and Proverbs 14:29! James 1:21-24 goes to show that we should lay aside all disobedience and defiance, read the word and live it; Romans 2:13, Jeremiah 44:16, and 1 Thessalonians 1:5!
I thank you for your reply but my understanding isn't quite where it should be. You say cease from my works yet I am to walk in His statutes and judgements and DO THEM. I'm sorry for my lack of understanding but this confuses me. I just want to be a ( James 1:23) doer of the word and not a hearer. lol
I thank you for your time and patience with me.
Peace be with you.
I hope you don't mind if I reply as to what you asked GiGi, "Is anger a sin?
Yes ,it appears to be so according to Scripture: Eph. 4:26-27, Col. 3:8 includes it with wrath, malice, blasphemy, and filthy communication. James 1:19-20, and more.
The word anger is associated with wrath and abundant throughout the OT. It is attributed to God. Should I conclude it is only a sin when we display anger and wrath? Help me out
Yet it seems you were justifying it as a righteous act because it appears that Jesus displayed anger.
I'm not insinuating you are right or wrong; just looking for a clear explanation. I'm probably misunderstanding what's being said.
Thank you in peace.
Part two
What does it mean to believe? What is the evidence that we believe? As Paul said, it is like running a race, when we start this race, we believe we are going to finish, and with God's Spirit we have all the determination and motivation we are not only going to finish this race we are going to win this race.
We are saved! We are being saved! We shall be saved! When we start, are all our sins forgiven, our past, present, and our future sins the moment we accept Jesus Christ as our Savior and are baptized? Is our salvation guaranteed and we cannot lose it or fall out of grace regardless?
We are saved. Eph. 2:5 When we accept the gospel and are baptized our sins are blotted out, Isaiah 44:22 Acts 3:19 and we become a child/son/daughter of God, John 1:12 we are justified, made righteous by the blood of Christ and the Holy Spirit dwells in us, and now we begin a relationship through God's Spirit, and God and Jesus abide in us, 2 John 1:9. This is the start of the race, the beginning of our salvation.
We are being saved. Philippians 1:6 Hearing the Word one believes and is baptized into Christ they are made clean (justification) the work of grace, and the Lord will continue working in us until He returns if we abide in Him John 15:3-5. How does God complete his good work in us? Testing James 1:2-4, chastising Heb. 12:6-7 Our relationship. If we abide in Him, Jesus, and God abides in us. The branches bear the fruit of the vine, the vine produces the fruit not us/branch, sanctification. We are running the race Philippians 2:12
We shall be saved. Redemption and glorification. Our full salvation comes at the end, when Jesus returns. Luke 21:28 "being now justified" We started the race. We are being saved, "being reconciled" we are running the race, 2 Cor. 5:18. We shall be saved at the end of the race. Romans 13:11.
See part three.
Part 2
This we must do for the rest of our lives, to live in repentance and obedience walking in the Spirit, not in this world. We must include these scriptures that show during our life and be sanctified one can fail, fall away whatever we want to call it, Heb. 3:12-13 1 John 1:7 2 Peter 2:20 we are told to keep ourselves Jude 21 If we hold fast the confidence, Heb. 3:6 If we faint not, Gal. 6:9 If ye continue in the faith, Col. 1:23 If ye do these things, 2 Peter 1:10, Paul said this about himself 1 Cor. 9:25-27.
Do we err when we say I was saved on whatever date when we should say my salvation started and I was justified made righteous, and I am now walking in the Spirit of God looking for the day I will be glorified when My Savior Jesus Christ returns and I will be like Him and as long as I breathe I will continue to walk in the Spirit of God as I am sanctified to be made perfect as My Lord Jesus is perfect? We must, every day be obedient and ask for forgiveness and guidance to keep going for the goal.
When are we saved is it when we accept Jesus as our Savior, if then do we overlook we must endure until the end. We must have the earnest/downpayment of the Spirit 2 Cor. 5:5, a downpayment for the final purchase when Jesus returns to claim His elect. We must know and realize that for whom the downpayment has been placed it must be intact when Jesus returns. We must endure until the end. Matt. 10:22 Matt. 24:13 John 6:27 As Abraham Heb. 6:13-16 James 1:12
I wish I could explain this better; I feel I have come up short, but I feel those who believe when walking down the aisle and confess they believe in Jesus they have a nonrefundable ticket to eternity, that is wrong.
God bless,
RLW
I don't see where what I describe takes it out of context of your statement, but the fulfillment of it.
the same word is used in James 1:4
Friend
shall I present more before you, & would you hear it then?
Grace & Peace to you
The Grace of God that appears to all mankind, begotten Paul & he declares in 1Cor 15:10 made what he now is.
What the Apostles received by the Revelation of Jesus Christ from His Grace appearance, they wrote down in the Epistle's that bares their name, & they believed & attain unto this knowledge by the diligent exercising thereof Hebrews 5:14 Hebrews 12:11 Philippians 3:16
Here's a small unfolding of His Grace / Light
They let Patience James 1:4,25 James 5:11 1Pet 5:9,10
Make you Perfect Hebrews 13:21
Be ye Perfect Matt 5:48 indicating this perfection is the same as the Father, there's not a different standard of holiness for mankind describe here.
The angel declared to Mary, Matt 1:21 not in their sin!
Folks,
Everything that God does is perfect, do you really believe that He would sent His only begotten Son to suffer all that He did for our sakes, & it not be a perfect restoration for His beloved creations.
I tell you by the Scriptures, sound reasoning & the Holy Ghost it's goes beyond the state of Adam innocents before he fell
Rom 6:3-5 the newness of life spoken of here is the likeness of His resurrection life & that is attain by working of His Divine Power 2Pet 1:2-4
I'm talking Grace, here now in this life. Don't be deceived, it's accompanies all that Christ experience, 1Pet 2:21 this too is apart of being make in His image & likeness, walking as He walk, the Apostles final got it after Pentecost, being baptized unto His death. This is when 1John 1:1-5 truly came into spiritual experiential experience. John 7:17
John 4:23,24 True worship is doing His will
& that will is reveal by His Grace / Light appearance in your heart. 2Cor 4:6,7
I have in other posts described why the Rapture is going to occur. It fulfills scriptures such as Malachi 3:16 in the book of remembrance of those who OFTEN talk about the Lord and it is to reward those who patiently wait for His coming ( James 1:12 and other supporting text). My commentary also discussed how it is for the reunion of all the saints; past and present at the Lord's feet; and for us to be presented in the church as "kings and priests" who will rule and reign with Him ( Rev. 5:10). We are the armies of heaven who will eventually return with Christ in Revelation 19:14; and be accompanied by angels as well.
Psalm 40:3 shows how many shall see and fear us being lifted up from the miry clay (verses 1-2). The provoking of the Jews to jealousy ( Romans 11:14) perhaps will occur when the times of the Gentiles are full ( Romans 11:25). In any event the time of Jacob's trouble is specifically for the week of testing for seven years ( Jeremiah 30:7; Daniel 9:26-27) which is also known as Daniel's 70th week.
Let us assume for a moment that the Rapture IS going to happen before the end of this year for instance. How many are ready for His coming? How many have their garments unspotted and unwrinkled ( Eph. 5:27). I have mentioned before that whether people believe the Rapture is Pretribulation or some other later date; it is the fruit of our lives that is most important. A theoretical concept won't keep those away who are true servants of the Master; but I guarantee those who are espousing a PreTrib Rapture but whose lives are not according to His will will by and large be shocked in many cases being left behind. Whether all these people never believed inthe first place or the Rapture is a reward issue; surely a great multitude will be saved but die as martyrs in the Tribulation ( Rev. 7:9). That is the purpose for the Tribulation for God's children; along with gathering the unregenerate for destruction.
My last posting ended with a brief discussion of spiritual rewards. If we never consider these things; we are in danger of just wanting "fire insurance" when coming to Christ from fear of hell. That lack of love for God will blind us to the need for sanctification; and we will never want to go beyond what we consider the bare minimum to ensure our place in heaven. The basic point here is that sanctification goes on from the point of salvation until death (or the Rapture) which finally brings glorification; or final salvation of the body from sin and decay. So we need here to discuss what sanctification means.
Sanctification. 2 Timothy 2:12 says that if we suffer with Him we will reign with Him. Jesus spoke to the Disciples about the cost involved in following Him; and James speaks of pure joy in suffering in James 1:2-4. The Apostles need no further case as to the cost of following Him as all but one were martyred (and apparently they may have tried to kill John before Patmos as well). We see how Peter failed Christ when he said he would die for him yet denied Christ at his trial. Whenever that verse comes up in James I comment that I am still working on that; I feel like a hypocrite otherwise.
Too often we look at dying to self as a martyrdom issue rather than looking at a progressive lifestyle of dying to self day by day; which also was the example of Christ. Once we practice loving others above ourselves for a long time it is much easier to handle our fate no matter how bleak (or at least less hard). Again; this is where the rubber meets the road. With today's "easy believism" we see little exhortation of others ( Hebrews 3:13); we see Christ being perhaps the "center" of our lives in many of today's churches rather than BEING our life and our old life dead and buried with Him.
So far we are discussing things that accompany salvation. Now I will begin to quote verses to examine warnings against falling away
Rugged individualism; taken too far results in pride and that comes before a fall. ( Prov. 16:18). A sluggard; however will not eat of his own harvest ( Prov. 19:24 loosely translated. Proverbs 20:4 in a similar light says a sluggard won't plow in the cold and later will go hungry. Today; we are more or less totally dependant on food supply brought through transport and our current economic infrastructure; except for the small percent of farmers and those growing substantial gardens or hunting for meat who are off the grid. This; and providing a generator and having sufficient money and provisions for disaster is probably lacking for anything more than a few days for many people. This is something not everyone can afford to do; but for those who can we need to consider our other brothers and sisters in the Lord we can help; to be the "head not the tail" in situations of lending or giving to those in need ( Deut. 28:13). Such wisdom comes from above.
Training our arm for war ( Psalm 18:34; Psalm 144:1) may not be popular if we are pacifists; but if we are to fight it should be something we are well trained in (such as those in Israel who have mandatory time in the Army to ensure the survival of the State). Such an attitude surely will keep our schools and communities safer if authorities and parents as well as children themselves are tought PROPERLY how to defend themselves.
There is no substitute; of course for prayer; and trusting God in our protection through angelic assistance ( Psalm 91:11-12). All of our strength of course is dependant upon the Lord. We are asked in James to seek wisdom to obtain it ( James 1:5). Balance is needed; we cannot naively trust our government to be able to protect us from all ills; and with its deficit if the Lord tarries we should prepare ourselves for much less help from them financially and otherwise.
For now let us all seek to "work heartily unto the Lord" if we can. ( Col. 3
Father we are men and if we speak as men then all our words is in vain but if you touch this words, each one of us may be edified and glorify you amen.
I believe in the Lord Jesus Christ who is is the son of the living God and he died on the cross for my sin and rose on the third day and sit on the right hand hand of poor Amen.
-The law or the commandment of Moses was given to man to obey and if anyone obeyed he was made righteous by it. and in the New Testament at the cross by The Blood of our Lord Jesus Christ the son of the living God, the righteous requirement of the law was abolished and when Jesus Christ son of the living God gave up His ghosts at the cross the temple vail was torn in two signifying the way to the Holy of Holiest was open that thus
it is written
Hebrews 4:16
16.Let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of need.
-it is required of Christians who been redeem by Grace and faith alone and not by corruptible things like silver, gold or tradition bought by our father but by the preciouse blood Of out Lord Jesus Christ to be obedient to the Commandment of God and not only to obey but to be doer of the the WORD OF GOD.
as it is written in
James 1:22-25
But be ye doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving your own selves. 23For if any be a hearer of the word, and not a doer, he is like unto a man beholding his natural face in a glass: 24for he beholdeth himself, and goeth his way, and straightway forgetteth what manner of man he was. 25But whoso looketh into the perfect law of liberty, and continueth therein, he being not a forgetful hearer, but a doer of the work, this man shall be blessed in his deed
and in
read part 2.
The way I interpret your question is how much must I obey God to get into heaven? What is the bare minimum?
Because some feel inconvenienced to follow Jesus- whether embarrassment or other excuses. And do you have to obey the 10 commandments or any of the other commandments in the Bible? You already know what God says- He called them "commandments" for a reason, but some want to be comforted and hear that you can do whatever you want, whatever feels good, in this world and be ok? If that the hope, that's Satan's message.
It looks like this has received a lot of comments. Some are pushing false teachings which should be called out. It doesn't matter what man says, but what God says, right? Isn't it better to please God than please man?
"But be ye doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving your own selves." James 1:22 KJV
This clearly says to be a doer of the Word. It's not enough to just hear it and do nothing. Christianity is an action. I don't see anywhere in the Bible saying you're saved on earth before you're even judged. Please share verses that back that up, because I haven't seen any. I see verses saying you can have assurance of salvation. There's verses saying we will be saved, but it doesn't say right now before our life is even over- I believe that's the assumed part that deviates from scripture.
"But whosoever shall deny me before men, him will I also deny before my Father which is in heaven." Matthew 10:33
Baptism:
"He that believeth and is baptized shall be saved; but he that believeth not shall be damned." Mark 16:16
I think its risky to intentionally disobey Jesus, then expect all the benefits.
"And why call ye me, Lord, Lord, and do not the things which I say?" Luke 6:46
If you don't obey, why even call him Lord? You're not even a follower. This is my interpretation of what Jesus is saying here.
Matthew 7:24-27 - Jesus's point of this parable is obeying Him. "doing" "doeth"
Thank you, God, who cannot be tempted of evil, James 1:13 or lie, Titus 1:2. God could not fulfill the law, flesh had to fulfill it because the curse of sin was on flesh. How could you fulfill a law if you were not capable of breaking it? We are told Jesus the Son of God was tempted as we are, Hebrews 4:15. He was made flesh for the suffering of death, Hebrews 2:9.
2 Cor. 5:21 For he hath made him to be sin for us, who knew no sin; that we might be made the righteousness of God in him. Jesus had a will of his own but was obedient to the Father, Luke 22:42. Jesus did the works of the Father, John 5:36. Jesus was sent by the Father, John 4:34 John 7:16. Jesus did all the miracles by the Spirit of God that was given to Him without measure, Matt. 12:28 John 3:34, when He was anointed at the Jordan, Mark 1:10 Luke 4:18.
I hope this is correct forgive me if I am wrong. The Father is God but is not the Son and is not the Holy Spirit. The Son is God but is not the Father and is not the Holy Spirit. The Holy Spirit is God but is not the Father and is not the Son. One God is three coexistent, co-eternal, and co-equal Persons.
If I may ask. If they are three persons, who is the Father of Jesus the Son of God? Matt. 1:18 Luke 1:35. Jesus many times said He has a God and a Father, Matt. 7:21 Matt. 12:50 John 20:17 2 Cor. 11:31 Ephesians 1:3 1 Peter 1:3. Jesus came in His Father's name, John 5:43.
My understanding, this is not a mystery that cannot be understood. God is a Spirit, John 4:24 It is His Spirit that dwelleth in us, 1 Cor. 3:16 1 Corinthians 2:10-12. God is Spirit, God is Holy. It is the Spirit of God that is the Holy Spirit.
Paul never used the Holy Spirit in his salutations. Jesus was begotten by His Father, Heb. 1:5. Jesus said His Father was greater than He John 14:28. Rev. 21:22 And I saw no temple therein: for the Lord God Almighty and the Lamb are the temple of it.
God bless,
RLW
III. THE STYLE OF THE BOOK:
The Book of James is not a doctrinal book. James is a commentary on the Sermon on the Mount given by Jesus in Matthew Chapters 5 through 7. Everything that Jesus taught in the Sermon on the Mount is found in the letter of James.
The letter of James is made up of a series of tests by which the genuineness of salvation can be determined.
IV. DATE OF THE WRITING:
It was written around 45 A.D. Some even think it might be one of the first letters written in the New Testament, right after the persecution in Acts Chapter 7. Josephus the church historian tells us James was martyred in 62 A.D.
V. TO WHOM IT WAS WRITTEN:
James 1:1 tells us that James was written to the Twelve Tribes which were scattered. These were Jewish believers who had scattered outside of Israel because of persecution. This group is officially known as the DIASPORA. That's a Greek word that means scattering. They were the scattered ones.
So, all Jews who had to leave Jerusalem and Israel because of persecution, they are all called the Diaspora, even to this day.