I agree that being obedient is commanded and important for people intending to follow Jesus. If they aren't following what Jesus says its a valid question to ask if they are following Jesus at all.
Not sure exactly what you meant by gospel teachings not covered.
The teachings in the NT echo those in the OT. The ten commandments are still applicable. "Do not kill", for example. Or bearing false witness (lying).
Romans, James, and other books describe good works is good. Doing good doesn't mean you're trying to earn heaven and bypass grace- that is the number one false assumption some young Christians make- and some just can't seem to assume the opposite that good is bad, and going bad is good. Clever switcharoo by the enemy to convince people of this. As if Jesus in the Bible is teaching us to NOT do what He says, but, nonetheless, this has to be explained quite often. But thankfully, its in the Bible, so people should just read what it says directly. For example: James 2:14
My understanding is like Adam's, just to add to what Adam said. You should study on your own, there are different views.
The belief that our soul is immortal comes from ancient Greek philosophy. The meaning of death, being a separation of the soul from the body also came from ancient Greek philosophy that is different than what we see in the Old Testament.
It is Platonism, Augustine of Hippo held this philosophy. He was a theologian, and philosopher with a strong influence on doctrines in the church, in the fourth and early fifth century.
Gen. 2:7 And the LORD God formed man of the dust of the ground, and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life; and man became a living soul. The spirit/breath gives us life.
The Hebrew word nephesh means a soul, living being, life, self, person, desire, passion, appetite, and emotion. The Greek word psuche means the soul, life, self, and a person's distinct identity. If you study them, it is also used for all living beings' fish, animals, birds, and man.
Physically we live AND die, eternally we live OR die, our choice of the gift of God that is through Jesus Christ our Lord, eternal life, or die the second death.
The word spirit, the Bible writers used the Hebrew word ruach meaning breath, wind, spirit, or the Greek word pneuma also meaning wind, breath, spirit, this life-giving breath/spirit is what goes back to God.
We are buried dead, mortal, in corruption and we are raised immortally incorruptible 1 Corinthians 15:42-44. That is when we will be absent from this flesh body.
All consciousness ends when we die. Psalm 6:5Job 14:12-14Job 17:13-16Psalm 89:48Psalm 115:17Ecclesiastes 9:5-10
We sleep in death until resurrection day, the day of redemption. 1 Corinthians 15:51-54Ephesians 4:30
Our spirit (breath) given to us by God is what keeps us alive, and we are a living soul. Ecclesiastes 12:7Psalm 104:29Psalm 146:4James 2:26
Ok. No Jesus not jahshua. Or Jah or whatever hebrew or Greek equivalent to Jesus and, God you choose to refer to. In the English language God is God. Jesus is the messiah, and so on and so forth. God knows who you are talking to just be respectful when referring to Him. Don't get caught up on obscure verses trying to make a doctrine of the name of God.
Secondly Jesus never made any new commandment . When Jesus said "if you love me keep my commandments" he was quoting Exodus 20:6
"And shewing mercy unto thousands of them that love me, and keep my commandments
This is referring to the ten commandments. All of them
Secondly the first four commandments are how you love God.
Just like the last six deal with how you love your NIEGHBOR.
He did not refer to every commandment he just referred to the ten commandments.
He was never saying just love your NIEGHBOR and not God.
Jesus is the one who wrote the ten commandments. It is a transcript of his character. Which is love. If you do not keep all ten of the commandments you do not love because they are a description of how you love.
1 John 5:3
"For this is the love of God, that we keep his commandments: and his commandments are not grievous."
The sabbath is Saturday. It was made holy by Jesus when he created everything. And it is still holy. No where in the entire Bible did he change or do away with the sabbath. Period!!!
Exodus 20:11
"For in six days the LORD made heaven and earth, the sea, and all that in them is, and rested the seventh day: wherefore the LORD blessed the sabbath day, and hallowed it."
It's also found in genesis at the beginning before there was a jew.
It would be absurd to assume you may break the first four commandments but have to keep the last six. It's a package deal.
James 2:10
"For whosoever shall keep the whole law, and yet offend in one point, he is guilty of all."
So it is the keeping of the entire ten commandments that is love for God and your nieghbor.
It says all should be treated the same with no favoritism. A certain political group virtue signals that some of a certain skin color were enslaved by some rich people in their own political group about 150-250 years ago. But all those people are dead. No one they're referring to are alive to give any such reparations back to, except they assume that by giving it to descendants then somehow something is made right? You can't change the past and it seems wrong to steal from one group to pay others who were never enslaved. It also seems wrong to show favoritism and act like if you have a certain skin shade that you deserve more sympathy or more money or pandering. What we see on TV is a circus. The Japanese and Germans enslaved and killed people only 81 years ago, but people somehow aren't demanding money for that, but for something twice as long ago. Meanwhile, there are child slaves coming across the southern border trafficked from cartels and other criminals but people aren't as upset about that either. There are also people enslaved right now in China, countries in Africa and other places that don't have people as upset about either. They are alive, and are imprisoned. There are even people in the US itself imprisoned as slaves who had no trial and just happened to be at the politically wrong place at the wrong time, and they are still alive too. What I see is amazing hypocrisy about money and privilege and victimhood as a form of self-worship as if somehow one who was never a slave was harmed, rather than actually helping current slaves alive now. God bless.
The MacArthur New Testament Commentary on Matthew 7:15-20.
Part 3
A person's basic character-his inner motives, standards, loyalties, attitudes, and ambitions-will eventually show through in what he does and how he acts. John the Baptist told the hypocritical Pharisees and Sadducees who came to be baptized to first "bring forth fruits in keeping with repentance" ( Luke 3:8). Their manner of living belied their claim that they loved and served God. When the multitude then asked John what good fruit was, he replied, "Let the man who has two tunics share with him who has none; and let him who has food do likewise" (v.11). To the tax-gatherers who asked what they should do, John said, "Collect no more than what you have been ordered to" (v. 13). John was saying that the person who is genuinely repentant and who truly trusts and loves God will also loveand help his fellow man (cf. James 2:15-17; 1 John 3:17; 4:20).
A person who belongs to Jesus Christ and who is called by God and given God's message will give evidence of good fruit both in his attitudes and his actions. A person who does not belong to God, especially a false prophet who claims to be God's messenger, will sooner or later manifest the bad fruit that the bad tree of his sensual life inevitably produces.
False prophets can disguise and hide their bad fruit for a while with ecclesiastical trappings, biblical knowledge, and evangelical vocabulary. They can cover it by belonging to Christian organizations, associating with Christian leaders, and by talking about divine things. But how they talk, act, and react when not in the view of Christians will eventually expose their true loyalty and convictions. What is in the heart will emerge, and corrupt theology will result in a corrupt life. False teaching and perverted living are inseparable, and eventually will become manifest.
God's will in decisions; part 2. Focusing on the mission field
I have said recently and it bears repeating for this subject matter the basic idea that whatever we do we should do it for the glory of the Lord ( 1 Cor. 10:31). My point had been that we needn't always think something mundane isn't just as effective being "spiritual". Extending that idea to something such as the mission field; there is no reason why the Lord can't be proclaimed while one does whatever labor is necessary. Faith without works; of course is dead ( James 2:14-26). Any Pastor in an impoverished nation (who himself isn't a "prosperity gospel" preacher) has to do the menial labor to keep the tent up; or the church roof from leaking. Of course as Paul did in his ministry; one can have a vocation (in his case tent making) while doing ministry work as well or on the side. Going back to what I said before; if we are sponsored by a church and they have a history of being (to put it polite paltry) in their budget towards missions; I would seriously consider if that is a good option since it will involve not just our own welfare but that of those we are shepherding. Of course there is also a problem if too much money is funneled into fancy buildings or activities (such as fancy stages and lights for music or youth ministry). That may be more of a "stateside" issue.
We also need to make sure that wherever we go there is church discipline being administered. The same issues; more or less occur overseas as do here; the one missionary in S.E. Asia that I support states that there is a trend to worldliness over there with one individual that had to be removed from the ministry; and there are false doctrines in many African nations as well.
One very good method for breaking new ground has for a long time been teaching English classes in many countries as it is mandatory for many countries to learn it. Such opportunities may be limited as perecution ramps up in the near future.
Interestingly, after studying scripture I've noticed, GOD gave mankind dominion, on Earth. Genesis 1:26,27,28, GOD didn't take that dominion away, people have misused their powers. They/we will all give account: Revelation 1:5-8, Romans 14:12, Daniel 4:3,34, Matthew 25:31-46, Matthew 18,
Jesus was here to show us how to bring His Kingdom the Kingdom of GOD on Earth, with Love, John 3:16-21, John 13:34, Romans 12:10, 1John 4:7,12, 1Peter 3:8, John 15:17, James 2:13-17, Luke 13:34,
one day all dominion will go to Christ: 1Corinthians 15:20-28, Romans 16:20,
Galatians 4:1-8, Colossians 3:21,
Matthew 20:25-28, Ephesians 1, (whole chapters) 1Peter 4, Jude 1,
Jesus gave all that believe in him, authority under heaven: from GOD ALMIGHTY: Matthew 28:18-20, Matthew 6, Luke 11, Mark 3:15, Acts 4:30,31, Luke 9:2,
We all have power in the natural if even just to comfort someone else, & as we grow in faith, supernatural power in prayer, through GOD & Christ Jesus our Savior.
When we are born again a new spiritual nature is created in us, this nature desires to obey God, not out of compulsion or fear, but out of love for God and love for what is good. We are changed, yet still have the sinful nature in us. So we battle with this nature with the help of the Holy Spirit every day. We battle it by obedience to God, which, as we practice godliness we become more and more like Jesus who's will was to live in total obedience to His Father. That should be our aim, too.
Paul told us to aim for perfection in 2 Cor.13:11, and He was the apostle who also told us that we are no longer under law and under it's curse for disobedience, but grace and told us that we are saved by faith not works. But He also spoke often, as Jesus did about living godly lives and obeying the commands of Christ and some that He, himself commanded.
Any Christian that thinks that they can live simple faith in absence of obedience to God is fooling himself, as James speaks of in his epistle. In chapter 1 21-25 he speaks of being a doer of the word. And he explains how good works follow faith in chapter 2 mentioning that with Abraham, who was justified by faith in verse 22 says that, "Do you see that faith was working together with his faith and by works was made perfect, concerning his obedience to offer Isaac. In verse 26 he said this, "For as the body without the spirit is dead, so faith without works is dead."
The point is that true believers will live by faith because they have been made just by the work of Christ, but living by faith means living for the will of God to be manifested in our lives, as Abraham desired. Faith and obedience go hand in hand in a believer's life. One without the other is not a true Christian walk that honors God and respects the work of Christ on our behalf.
My understanding they are part of each other. Obedience is dependent on our faith that we live by with the guidance of the Holy Spirit. The first Adam broke the relationship and God's dwelling place in man when he was disobedient in eating from that tree. Faith can be measured through our obedience which is the visible expression of our faith.
The Bible says that Jesus learned obedience from what He suffered and was made perfect, Heb. 8:5. Jesus gave us perfect examples of being obedient He did nothing of His own it was the Father's will not His, Luke 4:18John 5:30John 14:10. When Jesus was in the garden just before He was taken, He asked the Father if there was a different way but not His will but the Father's, Luke 22:42 but Jesus was obedient unto death.
We cannot be saved by works; we cannot earn our salvation. Is being obedient considered works? My understanding is no. Obedience is not an option it is a command, we either obey or disobey like the first Adam. If we are obedient, we are dutiful and compliant to His commands.
Our faith, Heb.1:1 by the grace of God that we fully trust Him regardless of what we may face, not with our logic but with His, and the promises God has given us, our hope is not in this world but the eternal one that our hope is in, that with patience we wait and watch for to come.
In my opinion faith is better than obedience , the reason being is that : none of us is ever perfectly obedient , we all sin . If we have faith , in God and in his love and mercy towards us , then we can be forgiven for our disobedience / sin . If we don't have faith in God and in Jesus then we can't really call ourselves Christians can we ? Hopefully , our faith will lead us into obedience .
In my last update; I mentioned "decisional regeneration". My final statement on that subject is that we all must truly make the "decision" to verbally and in the heart confess Christ; but we must continue believing and test ourselves to see if we are in the faith after such a commitment. ( 2 Cor. 13:5). John 3:16 as I have said before is in a tense that means a CONTINUING faith; not just a one time experience where we can dwell with those of heaven and continue to live as before; therefore still on the wide road leading to destruction. If we have decieved ourselves; of course there is some crossover with the other points I have made in regard to not taking specific sins seriously; or being a tare. In the three cases examined under point one so far the Bible is used at face value; so to speak; and the poison basically comes from within ourself. Satan is by no means excluded from this process but doesn't have to do as much as in the other two cases I am about to discuss.
Case #2 Twisting scriptures
Ah; now we are getting into the enemy's camp. Most of us probably are familiar with Christ's dialogue with Satan when being tempted in the wilderness ( Matthew 4:1-11). Here there was no issue with the LITERAL interpretation of scripture but it's application. Satan wanted worship for Himself so he first used the temptation to satisfy hunger; then that of ending suffering through self destruction and finally worship for himself. In the first two cases he used scripture as his ammo. In the last case his true intentions came out; i.e. for him to be worshipped as God. Christ did the "knockout punch" there with the command to worship only God alone. Satan didn't have to use scripture to prove his point as later verses in the N.T. indicate that he has been given temporary power over the world system and Principalities in high places ( Eph. 6:12). He also knew that Jesus wouldn't be fooled by some other "religious" writings since He was the Son of God. ( James 2:19
Matthew 25:31-46, Matthew 7, James 2, 2Peter 1, 2Peter 1:10 "wherefore the rather, brethren, give diligence to make your calling and election sure: for if ye do these things ye shall never fall:"
James 5:9, "brethren" "lest you be condemned" James 5, in context
Points out, these for-sure think they are 'saved' entitled" to enter they even boast of the Religiousness, Matthew 7:21-24, "Many will say in that day Lord, Lord, have we not ._._." & those who actually feel unworthy, were/are welcomed. Matthew 25:37-40. When anyone starts thinking they're all deserving we need beware by being aware! Because pride comes before a fall'' Proverbs 16:18,
Matthew 7:21 "._._. but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven" Micah 6:8, James 1:27,
2Timothy 2:15,
With much study there indicates the treatment of "the least of these" is a major weight to GOD ALMIGHTY throughout the scriptures, Old & New Testament. Luke 12:45-47, note (abusive treatment towards people having less authority,) "._._ will appoint him his portion with the unbelievers" context Luke 12, indicating these are "believers"
Please notice
James 2:13-19, "For he shall have judgement without mercy, that hath showed no mercy; and mercy rejoiceth against judgement. What doth it profit my brethren, though a man say he hath faith, and have not works? Can faith save him? If a brother or sister be naked and destitute of daily food, and one of you say unto them, depart in peace, be ye warmed and filled; notwithstanding ye give them not those things which are needful to the body; what doth it profit? Even so faith if it hath not works, is dead, being alone. Yea, a man may say thou hast faith, and I have works: Show me thy faith without thy works, and I will show thee my faith by my works. Thou believest that there is one God; Thou doest well: The devils also believe and tremble." James 2 in context
2)The fact that God determines that all sins are capital offenses means that no sinner should feel themselves to be more righteous than another. James puts it this way.-to be found guilty of sin at one point is to be guilty of all sins. ( James 2:1-8)
God's Law refuses to distinguish between sins and crimes. As a rule, governments do not concern themselves with moral sins, but rather with social evils that they determine to be crimes. Governments do not concern themselves with what is termed sins (those actions that are against God) but with crimes, (offenses against other human persons).
The capital sins of Leviticus 20 are those sins that the Canaanites would not have considered to be crimes at all. God's people are especially responsible for sins that are not crimes (as those in Leviticus 20 show).
a) the sins which are not crimes are those acts which our culture will encourage us to commit.
b) the sins which are not crimes do not seem to have immediate natural (nor dire) consequences.
When God made certain sins crimes for the Israelites, they were strongly motivated to obey God's Law and to avoid sin because they wanted to live and not be put to death.
Their lifestyle was to be distinct from the people of the surrounding nations. Disobedience and defilement will lead to expulsion from the land promised (Lev.18:24-30; 20;22-26)
God's standards of holiness are much higher than man's sense of morality even at its best. Today's Christians must wake up to the fact that living a godly life requires much more than being a law-abiding citizen. (Some laws are anti-christian and some things that are legal are still sinful). Let us live higher than the law demands for avoiding sin requires this ( Mt. 5:43-48, 1 Peter 2:4). Civil Law can define what is a crime, but God defines what is a sin, not me, not you, not any other being, human, angelic, or demonic.
A day or two ago; I quoted Paul in Romans 7:9-11 where he stated that before he knew about sin it didn't have a hold on him but then now that he does it slayed him (my own rough translation). THe LAW of course was what caused the death sentence; as many of has have read that he who doesn't follow the law completely ( James 2:10) and breaks it in one area breaks it all.
In looking at the garden and the tree of knowledge of good and evil it is good at first to examine what we can surmise about man (in this case Adam and Eve) in an innocent state; before the fall. In a sinless state; there would be no compulsion or even understanding of doing anything sinful and hence displeasing to God. Therefore man could have remained in this state of innocence had the tree of life been eaten at this time. Theoretically; since the tree of life HAD no restrictions on it they were free to eat it; but by Divine Providence they did not; because of God's foreknowledge that they were going to be fallen and that would put them in that state forever. The potential certainly existed in Adam and Eve much as it did with Satan in his glory as Lucifer in the beginning. Wisdom of knowing good from evil actually is something as Christians we need to pursue. To seek it for their own betterment or somehow because God was trying to cheat them out of something of course was the first wrong concept Satan was able to infest their minds with. This lack of trust in God led to them trusting themselves; and hence no doubt to TRUST Satan's lie was more to their benefit than their Creator's commands. Just how LONG this took isn't exactly clear for the fall to occur; just as with Satan. In Satan's case it certainly must have been quite a campaign to get that many angels to rebel that took some time.
No doubt the knowledge of evil and the sin itself was already occuring at some point after the serpent's message was heard; heeded and followed through.
Predestination part 3. (eternal fate heaven or hell).
When we are "conformed to the image of His Son" ( Romans 8:29) we see the concept of predestination and "first fruits" there; which would foreshadow a Rapture/Resurrection event. Another way to put it is that those who read the Beatitudes on a surface level or human level of understanding see a humanitarian sort of principle of for instance; how to be "peacemakers"; feed the poor; etc. ANYONE; even an atheist can do such things but it is only the Holiness of God through the Spirit after true conversion that gives us the reality of that in our souls. No amount of penance; self sacrifice or other actions can give us more of a desire for God's Holiness if it doesn't already exist in someone's soul! Nonetheless "faith without works is dead." ( James 2:17). Poducing fruit is essential for a true believer as we see with the Parable of the Sower and the seed.
There are also various levels of suffering in hell as well as rewards in heaven. We see this in Matthew 11:20-24 with several cities in mind. Also we see this in Matthew 13:8 as to the 30 fold and 100 fold producers (also see 1 Cor. 15:41).
I am fairly dogmatic as to those before the age of accountability not being punished for their sin NATURE since they haven't acted out the sin knowing that they are rebels against God. When we look at Romans 7:9-11; we understand this concept; and when we see the story of David and his son who died ( 2 Samuel 12:23) we see evidence of this amongst other places ( Psalm 8:2 for example).
Another way of looking at is is the verse "we will not have this man to rule over us." ( Luke 19:14). This is what all say who go against the Man who God has given all authority to in heaven and earth ( Matt. 28:18). If we disbelieve the living Word ( Heb. 4:12 etal) then we reject His authority and preservation as well as 2 Timothy 3:16 which states all scripture is breathed of God..
In whom ye also trusted, after that ye heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation: in whom also after that ye believed, ye were sealed with that holy Spirit of promise,
And to address Jessie's point about the devil believing that is different from the faith we have in believing that Jesus died, was buried and rose again for the remission of our sins. Their belief is not a salvation belief.
James 2:19
"Thou believest that there is one God; thou doest well: the devils also believe, and tremble."
There are MANY clear verses that salvation is by faith aloneJesus paid it ALL even after we are saved we will still sin until we die from this flesh. And that is why we are to be as little children.it is easy to be saved even a small child can be saved.
It goes back to what I keep saying lol. I don't understand why everyone doesn't get this: 2 Tim 3:16. But what comes before it?
What comes before chapter 3? Chapter 2, and more specifically, 2 Tim 2:15. If we're going to study any of scripture, we must rightly divide it. In other words, we must study ***in light of the revelation of Jesus Christ, according to the mystery***.
James 2 and Romans 4 are perfect examples. James 1:1 he is specifically talking to the Israel of God (the believing remnant that will "come out" in Jacob's Trouble).
They "contradict each other" and that's perfectly ok. Why? Because both passages are written to different people during different dispensations. James 2: written to the remnant during Jacob's Trouble (the start of the dispensation of the kingdom) and written **for** our learning (but not our doctrine) and Romans 4: written to us in this dispensation of the grace of God (written to us and is our doctrine because we're under the mystery, the dispensation of the grace of God.)
James is not apart of the Body of Christ. Nor is the writer of Hebrews. (Paul didn't write Hebrews - Heb 2:1).
I don't understand why everyone is trying to correct me on something I've stated multiple times now.
Me: 2 Tim 3:16 all scripture is for us but we have to rightly divide it 2 Tim 2:15
You: Yeah but all scripture is for us.
Me: ....yeah I know. You're at the half way mark. Not the finish line. I'm trying to help you open your eyes to truly understanding scripture. It would be wise to inquire the truth God's opened my eyes too. I'm trying to shew you a more excellent way: God's way, how he wants us to go to scripture today.
Hi David, I was wondering how you would explain that and reconcile what the Bible says with your belief.
These verses are in context and contradict what you are claiming, but even though they're in context and you just click or hover over it to read the whole chapter or book you just dismissed it as not being in context.
I noticed your response didn't have any Bible verses supporting your view.
I believe in and stand by Jesus's words. It sounds like you're accusing Jesus of being about "works." You do so at your own risk. I will not be ashamed for believing in what Jesus says, even if people use all kinds of tricks to attack.
Jesus: "If ye love me, keep my commandments." John 14:15
You: No, don't obey, because that's works.
Is that really your position that it's "bad" to obey Jesus, and "good" to not obey Jesus?
If so, that sounds exactly like something satan would say. Such a clever deception to get people to believe its somehow bad to do good and good to do bad. As if God wants people to disobey Him!?
Also I noticed you used the same straw man argument everyone else has been taught to use that if you want to follow Jesus then automatically you're trying to work towards heaven and there's no other possibility. I already said we're saved by grace, which seemed to be ignored. Of course I already answered this fallacy in advance, but maybe you didn't read it or did and claimed this fallacy anyway. Anyway, I feel a moral obligation to counter the lies on here and anyone claiming that its bad to follow and bad to obey Jesus is just is not speaking the truth. The Bible warns Christians of this throughout scripture.
Dear God, Father in Heaven, we lift up our eyes to You, Almighty God. You who know everything, and that we Your children can talk to You about all things. In prayer, praise and thanksgiving. Thank You for being close in thoughts, words and deeds. We lift up "Nabeta Besweri" in prayer to You Lord, we ask in the holy name of Jesus Christ that "Nabeta Besweri" have a normal life. And ar grateful for that. We also ask that You give "Nabeta Besweri" some good friends to talk to, share everyday problems with. We thank You Lord that You are close to us when we need You always, thank You in advance for answers to prayer, in the name of Jesus Christ we pray, Amen
James 2:14-26 Stay strong in the word, love u in Christ and Merry Christmas
Hello, thanks for sharing but that's not what God says in His word.
What scripture verse do you claim to be the source of your idea that faith is a result of salvation?
And what scripture verse do you cite to claim that you're saved now before you're even judged?
Paul said the one verse you're citing, but did you notice that Paul also warned ( 1 Cor 4:14) Christians to obey and not stray from the faith. God gives you that choice- he will allow you to commit despicable evil as we see people do every day, as is covered by the news. Christians also leave the faith, as evidenced by those we know in person and those forum groups like on Reddit where they talk about it. To deny this reality is to deny truth. Did God cause them to leave the faith? No, people did using their own freewill and bad choices. They will not be saved if they are not following Christ. Not all Christians will be "saved" on judgment day.
I don't know if you believe in freewill or not, that God is forcing you to type things on this site you don't want to say of if you believe you are doing it. If God forces you to eat things you don't want to eat like Taco Bell or ice cream. But about freewill of course there's only one truth- either its true or not, not both. And its true for me, so are people claiming its not true for them? And is that God speaking through them that its not true or is that their own doing and how can they 100% prove they are not in control of their bodies whatsoever? Some may be deceived and use this as justification to sin against God and perhaps some may be dishonest about it.
1 Cor 4:5 says to judge nothing before the Lord comes and then the Lord will then judge us, but people seem to like judging themselves as saved so some can then make excuses to disobey God.
Romans 15:5 Paul says we need endurance. He warns us, says to endure, and 1 Corinthians 9:24 says to run the race so to win the prize. The refutes the popular narrative.
1 Peter 1:5 - "...salvation ready to be revealed in the last time.” Hebrews 10:26, James 2:14-26, Matthew 7:21-23
You may be referring to Proverbs 25:20-21 "As he that taketh away a garment in cold weather, and as vinegar upon nitre, so is he that sings songs to an heavy heart," "If thine enemy be hungry, give him bread to eat; and if he be thirsty give him water to drink:" Proverbs 25:22 "For thou shall heap coals of fire upon his head, and LORD shall reward thee."
Also James 2:15-17 "If a brother or sister be naked, and destitute of daily food, And one of you say unto them, Depart in peace, be ye warmed and filled; notwithstanding ye give them not those things which are needful to the body; what doth it profit? Even so faith, if it hath not works, is dead, being alone." + James 2:18-20 "Yea, a man may say, Thou hast faith, and I have works: shew me thy faith without thy works, and I shew thee my faith by my works. Thou believest that there is one GOD; Thou doest well: The devils also believe, and tremble. But wilt thou know, O vain man, that faith without works is dead?"
Chris and Duncan gave great answers but I felt led to add these. Sometimes actions can lead to joy more than words.
I agree that being obedient is commanded and important for people intending to follow Jesus. If they aren't following what Jesus says its a valid question to ask if they are following Jesus at all.
Not sure exactly what you meant by gospel teachings not covered.
The teachings in the NT echo those in the OT. The ten commandments are still applicable. "Do not kill", for example. Or bearing false witness (lying).
Romans, James, and other books describe good works is good. Doing good doesn't mean you're trying to earn heaven and bypass grace- that is the number one false assumption some young Christians make- and some just can't seem to assume the opposite that good is bad, and going bad is good. Clever switcharoo by the enemy to convince people of this. As if Jesus in the Bible is teaching us to NOT do what He says, but, nonetheless, this has to be explained quite often. But thankfully, its in the Bible, so people should just read what it says directly. For example: James 2:14
My understanding is like Adam's, just to add to what Adam said. You should study on your own, there are different views.
The belief that our soul is immortal comes from ancient Greek philosophy. The meaning of death, being a separation of the soul from the body also came from ancient Greek philosophy that is different than what we see in the Old Testament.
It is Platonism, Augustine of Hippo held this philosophy. He was a theologian, and philosopher with a strong influence on doctrines in the church, in the fourth and early fifth century.
Gen. 2:7 And the LORD God formed man of the dust of the ground, and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life; and man became a living soul. The spirit/breath gives us life.
The Hebrew word nephesh means a soul, living being, life, self, person, desire, passion, appetite, and emotion. The Greek word psuche means the soul, life, self, and a person's distinct identity. If you study them, it is also used for all living beings' fish, animals, birds, and man.
Physically we live AND die, eternally we live OR die, our choice of the gift of God that is through Jesus Christ our Lord, eternal life, or die the second death.
The word spirit, the Bible writers used the Hebrew word ruach meaning breath, wind, spirit, or the Greek word pneuma also meaning wind, breath, spirit, this life-giving breath/spirit is what goes back to God.
We are buried dead, mortal, in corruption and we are raised immortally incorruptible 1 Corinthians 15:42-44. That is when we will be absent from this flesh body.
All consciousness ends when we die. Psalm 6:5 Job 14:12-14 Job 17:13-16 Psalm 89:48 Psalm 115:17 Ecclesiastes 9:5-10
We sleep in death until resurrection day, the day of redemption. 1 Corinthians 15:51-54 Ephesians 4:30
Our spirit (breath) given to us by God is what keeps us alive, and we are a living soul. Ecclesiastes 12:7 Psalm 104:29 Psalm 146:4 James 2:26
May this help your study.
God bless,
RLW
I will show you five to one saying your lying.
James 2:26
"For as the body without the spirit is dead, so faith without works is dead also."
James 2:24
"Ye see then how that by works a man is justified, and not by faith only."
Romans 6:1
"What shall we say then? Shall we continue in sin, that grace may abound?" Romans 6:2
"God forbid. How shall we, that are dead to sin, live any longer therein? Matthew 7:23
"And then will I profess unto them, I never knew you: depart from me, ye that work iniquity."
That word is lawlessness or too be without the ten commandments.
These Couple of verse should keep you occupied from now on.
But if not there is a whole Bible full I could continue.
Secondly Jesus never made any new commandment . When Jesus said "if you love me keep my commandments" he was quoting Exodus 20:6
"And shewing mercy unto thousands of them that love me, and keep my commandments
This is referring to the ten commandments. All of them
Secondly the first four commandments are how you love God.
Just like the last six deal with how you love your NIEGHBOR.
He did not refer to every commandment he just referred to the ten commandments.
He was never saying just love your NIEGHBOR and not God.
Jesus is the one who wrote the ten commandments. It is a transcript of his character. Which is love. If you do not keep all ten of the commandments you do not love because they are a description of how you love.
1 John 5:3
"For this is the love of God, that we keep his commandments: and his commandments are not grievous."
The sabbath is Saturday. It was made holy by Jesus when he created everything. And it is still holy. No where in the entire Bible did he change or do away with the sabbath. Period!!!
Exodus 20:11
"For in six days the LORD made heaven and earth, the sea, and all that in them is, and rested the seventh day: wherefore the LORD blessed the sabbath day, and hallowed it."
It's also found in genesis at the beginning before there was a jew.
It would be absurd to assume you may break the first four commandments but have to keep the last six. It's a package deal.
James 2:10
"For whosoever shall keep the whole law, and yet offend in one point, he is guilty of all."
So it is the keeping of the entire ten commandments that is love for God and your nieghbor.
James 2:9
Romans 2:11
James 2:1-26
Deuteronomy 10:17
Galatians 3:28
Acts 10:34
It says all should be treated the same with no favoritism. A certain political group virtue signals that some of a certain skin color were enslaved by some rich people in their own political group about 150-250 years ago. But all those people are dead. No one they're referring to are alive to give any such reparations back to, except they assume that by giving it to descendants then somehow something is made right? You can't change the past and it seems wrong to steal from one group to pay others who were never enslaved. It also seems wrong to show favoritism and act like if you have a certain skin shade that you deserve more sympathy or more money or pandering. What we see on TV is a circus. The Japanese and Germans enslaved and killed people only 81 years ago, but people somehow aren't demanding money for that, but for something twice as long ago. Meanwhile, there are child slaves coming across the southern border trafficked from cartels and other criminals but people aren't as upset about that either. There are also people enslaved right now in China, countries in Africa and other places that don't have people as upset about either. They are alive, and are imprisoned. There are even people in the US itself imprisoned as slaves who had no trial and just happened to be at the politically wrong place at the wrong time, and they are still alive too. What I see is amazing hypocrisy about money and privilege and victimhood as a form of self-worship as if somehow one who was never a slave was harmed, rather than actually helping current slaves alive now. God bless.
Part 3
A person's basic character-his inner motives, standards, loyalties, attitudes, and ambitions-will eventually show through in what he does and how he acts. John the Baptist told the hypocritical Pharisees and Sadducees who came to be baptized to first "bring forth fruits in keeping with repentance" ( Luke 3:8). Their manner of living belied their claim that they loved and served God. When the multitude then asked John what good fruit was, he replied, "Let the man who has two tunics share with him who has none; and let him who has food do likewise" (v.11). To the tax-gatherers who asked what they should do, John said, "Collect no more than what you have been ordered to" (v. 13). John was saying that the person who is genuinely repentant and who truly trusts and loves God will also loveand help his fellow man (cf. James 2:15-17; 1 John 3:17; 4:20).
A person who belongs to Jesus Christ and who is called by God and given God's message will give evidence of good fruit both in his attitudes and his actions. A person who does not belong to God, especially a false prophet who claims to be God's messenger, will sooner or later manifest the bad fruit that the bad tree of his sensual life inevitably produces.
False prophets can disguise and hide their bad fruit for a while with ecclesiastical trappings, biblical knowledge, and evangelical vocabulary. They can cover it by belonging to Christian organizations, associating with Christian leaders, and by talking about divine things. But how they talk, act, and react when not in the view of Christians will eventually expose their true loyalty and convictions. What is in the heart will emerge, and corrupt theology will result in a corrupt life. False teaching and perverted living are inseparable, and eventually will become manifest.
See Part 4.
I have said recently and it bears repeating for this subject matter the basic idea that whatever we do we should do it for the glory of the Lord ( 1 Cor. 10:31). My point had been that we needn't always think something mundane isn't just as effective being "spiritual". Extending that idea to something such as the mission field; there is no reason why the Lord can't be proclaimed while one does whatever labor is necessary. Faith without works; of course is dead ( James 2:14-26). Any Pastor in an impoverished nation (who himself isn't a "prosperity gospel" preacher) has to do the menial labor to keep the tent up; or the church roof from leaking. Of course as Paul did in his ministry; one can have a vocation (in his case tent making) while doing ministry work as well or on the side. Going back to what I said before; if we are sponsored by a church and they have a history of being (to put it polite paltry) in their budget towards missions; I would seriously consider if that is a good option since it will involve not just our own welfare but that of those we are shepherding. Of course there is also a problem if too much money is funneled into fancy buildings or activities (such as fancy stages and lights for music or youth ministry). That may be more of a "stateside" issue.
We also need to make sure that wherever we go there is church discipline being administered. The same issues; more or less occur overseas as do here; the one missionary in S.E. Asia that I support states that there is a trend to worldliness over there with one individual that had to be removed from the ministry; and there are false doctrines in many African nations as well.
One very good method for breaking new ground has for a long time been teaching English classes in many countries as it is mandatory for many countries to learn it. Such opportunities may be limited as perecution ramps up in the near future.
Interestingly, after studying scripture I've noticed, GOD gave mankind dominion, on Earth. Genesis 1:26,27,28, GOD didn't take that dominion away, people have misused their powers. They/we will all give account: Revelation 1:5-8, Romans 14:12, Daniel 4:3,34, Matthew 25:31-46, Matthew 18,
Jesus was here to show us how to bring His Kingdom the Kingdom of GOD on Earth, with Love, John 3:16-21, John 13:34, Romans 12:10, 1John 4:7,12, 1Peter 3:8, John 15:17, James 2:13-17, Luke 13:34,
one day all dominion will go to Christ: 1Corinthians 15:20-28, Romans 16:20,
Galatians 4:1-8, Colossians 3:21,
Matthew 20:25-28, Ephesians 1, (whole chapters) 1Peter 4, Jude 1,
Jesus gave all that believe in him, authority under heaven: from GOD ALMIGHTY: Matthew 28:18-20, Matthew 6, Luke 11, Mark 3:15, Acts 4:30,31, Luke 9:2,
We all have power in the natural if even just to comfort someone else, & as we grow in faith, supernatural power in prayer, through GOD & Christ Jesus our Savior.
Hopefully these are helpful
Very well stated Gigi.
I agree with S. Spencer,
When we are born again a new spiritual nature is created in us, this nature desires to obey God, not out of compulsion or fear, but out of love for God and love for what is good. We are changed, yet still have the sinful nature in us. So we battle with this nature with the help of the Holy Spirit every day. We battle it by obedience to God, which, as we practice godliness we become more and more like Jesus who's will was to live in total obedience to His Father. That should be our aim, too.
Paul told us to aim for perfection in 2 Cor.13:11, and He was the apostle who also told us that we are no longer under law and under it's curse for disobedience, but grace and told us that we are saved by faith not works. But He also spoke often, as Jesus did about living godly lives and obeying the commands of Christ and some that He, himself commanded.
Any Christian that thinks that they can live simple faith in absence of obedience to God is fooling himself, as James speaks of in his epistle. In chapter 1 21-25 he speaks of being a doer of the word. And he explains how good works follow faith in chapter 2 mentioning that with Abraham, who was justified by faith in verse 22 says that, "Do you see that faith was working together with his faith and by works was made perfect, concerning his obedience to offer Isaac. In verse 26 he said this, "For as the body without the spirit is dead, so faith without works is dead."
The point is that true believers will live by faith because they have been made just by the work of Christ, but living by faith means living for the will of God to be manifested in our lives, as Abraham desired. Faith and obedience go hand in hand in a believer's life. One without the other is not a true Christian walk that honors God and respects the work of Christ on our behalf.
I agree with what others have shared.
I would say the evidence of faith will result in obedience.
That obedience is not always resisting evil or wrong doing.
It's also not just you complying to a command. IT'S CHANGE!
True faith causes change that results in Obedience.
"Your heart" is obeying all of scripture that APPLIES TO YOU.
For it is God which worketh in you both to will and to do of his good pleasure. Philippians 2:13.
I hope this helps.
God bless.
My understanding they are part of each other. Obedience is dependent on our faith that we live by with the guidance of the Holy Spirit. The first Adam broke the relationship and God's dwelling place in man when he was disobedient in eating from that tree. Faith can be measured through our obedience which is the visible expression of our faith.
The Bible says that Jesus learned obedience from what He suffered and was made perfect, Heb. 8:5. Jesus gave us perfect examples of being obedient He did nothing of His own it was the Father's will not His, Luke 4:18 John 5:30 John 14:10. When Jesus was in the garden just before He was taken, He asked the Father if there was a different way but not His will but the Father's, Luke 22:42 but Jesus was obedient unto death.
We cannot be saved by works; we cannot earn our salvation. Is being obedient considered works? My understanding is no. Obedience is not an option it is a command, we either obey or disobey like the first Adam. If we are obedient, we are dutiful and compliant to His commands.
Our faith, Heb.1:1 by the grace of God that we fully trust Him regardless of what we may face, not with our logic but with His, and the promises God has given us, our hope is not in this world but the eternal one that our hope is in, that with patience we wait and watch for to come.
May others word it better to help your study.
God bless,
RLW
Romans 12:5-21,
Not forgetting: James 2:15-20,
Hopefully these are helpful
Case #2 Twisting scriptures
Ah; now we are getting into the enemy's camp. Most of us probably are familiar with Christ's dialogue with Satan when being tempted in the wilderness ( Matthew 4:1-11). Here there was no issue with the LITERAL interpretation of scripture but it's application. Satan wanted worship for Himself so he first used the temptation to satisfy hunger; then that of ending suffering through self destruction and finally worship for himself. In the first two cases he used scripture as his ammo. In the last case his true intentions came out; i.e. for him to be worshipped as God. Christ did the "knockout punch" there with the command to worship only God alone. Satan didn't have to use scripture to prove his point as later verses in the N.T. indicate that he has been given temporary power over the world system and Principalities in high places ( Eph. 6:12). He also knew that Jesus wouldn't be fooled by some other "religious" writings since He was the Son of God. ( James 2:19
James 2:13, Luke 9:58, Matthew 8:20, Luke 2:7, Hebrews 4:15-16
Hopefully this is encouraging
James 5:9, "brethren" "lest you be condemned" James 5, in context
Points out, these for-sure think they are 'saved' entitled" to enter they even boast of the Religiousness, Matthew 7:21-24, "Many will say in that day Lord, Lord, have we not ._._." & those who actually feel unworthy, were/are welcomed. Matthew 25:37-40. When anyone starts thinking they're all deserving we need beware by being aware! Because pride comes before a fall'' Proverbs 16:18,
Matthew 7:21 "._._. but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven" Micah 6:8, James 1:27,
2Timothy 2:15,
With much study there indicates the treatment of "the least of these" is a major weight to GOD ALMIGHTY throughout the scriptures, Old & New Testament. Luke 12:45-47, note (abusive treatment towards people having less authority,) "._._ will appoint him his portion with the unbelievers" context Luke 12, indicating these are "believers"
Please notice
James 2:13-19, "For he shall have judgement without mercy, that hath showed no mercy; and mercy rejoiceth against judgement. What doth it profit my brethren, though a man say he hath faith, and have not works? Can faith save him? If a brother or sister be naked and destitute of daily food, and one of you say unto them, depart in peace, be ye warmed and filled; notwithstanding ye give them not those things which are needful to the body; what doth it profit? Even so faith if it hath not works, is dead, being alone. Yea, a man may say thou hast faith, and I have works: Show me thy faith without thy works, and I will show thee my faith by my works. Thou believest that there is one God; Thou doest well: The devils also believe and tremble." James 2 in context
Hopefully these are helpful
Hopefully these are helpful in your discussion & study
2)The fact that God determines that all sins are capital offenses means that no sinner should feel themselves to be more righteous than another. James puts it this way.-to be found guilty of sin at one point is to be guilty of all sins. ( James 2:1-8)
God's Law refuses to distinguish between sins and crimes. As a rule, governments do not concern themselves with moral sins, but rather with social evils that they determine to be crimes. Governments do not concern themselves with what is termed sins (those actions that are against God) but with crimes, (offenses against other human persons).
The capital sins of Leviticus 20 are those sins that the Canaanites would not have considered to be crimes at all. God's people are especially responsible for sins that are not crimes (as those in Leviticus 20 show).
a) the sins which are not crimes are those acts which our culture will encourage us to commit.
b) the sins which are not crimes do not seem to have immediate natural (nor dire) consequences.
When God made certain sins crimes for the Israelites, they were strongly motivated to obey God's Law and to avoid sin because they wanted to live and not be put to death.
Their lifestyle was to be distinct from the people of the surrounding nations. Disobedience and defilement will lead to expulsion from the land promised (Lev.18:24-30; 20;22-26)
God's standards of holiness are much higher than man's sense of morality even at its best. Today's Christians must wake up to the fact that living a godly life requires much more than being a law-abiding citizen. (Some laws are anti-christian and some things that are legal are still sinful). Let us live higher than the law demands for avoiding sin requires this ( Mt. 5:43-48, 1 Peter 2:4). Civil Law can define what is a crime, but God defines what is a sin, not me, not you, not any other being, human, angelic, or demonic.
Matthew 7,
James 1:5, John 14:26, John 17, James 2:13-20, context James 2,
Hopefully these are helpful in your study
Scripture to back you
Matthew 25:31-46, James 2:5-20, 1Timothy 6:6-12, James 1:27, Colossians 1:10, Hebrews 13:5, James 3:17,18, Jude 1,
Hopefully these are helpful
A day or two ago; I quoted Paul in Romans 7:9-11 where he stated that before he knew about sin it didn't have a hold on him but then now that he does it slayed him (my own rough translation). THe LAW of course was what caused the death sentence; as many of has have read that he who doesn't follow the law completely ( James 2:10) and breaks it in one area breaks it all.
In looking at the garden and the tree of knowledge of good and evil it is good at first to examine what we can surmise about man (in this case Adam and Eve) in an innocent state; before the fall. In a sinless state; there would be no compulsion or even understanding of doing anything sinful and hence displeasing to God. Therefore man could have remained in this state of innocence had the tree of life been eaten at this time. Theoretically; since the tree of life HAD no restrictions on it they were free to eat it; but by Divine Providence they did not; because of God's foreknowledge that they were going to be fallen and that would put them in that state forever. The potential certainly existed in Adam and Eve much as it did with Satan in his glory as Lucifer in the beginning. Wisdom of knowing good from evil actually is something as Christians we need to pursue. To seek it for their own betterment or somehow because God was trying to cheat them out of something of course was the first wrong concept Satan was able to infest their minds with. This lack of trust in God led to them trusting themselves; and hence no doubt to TRUST Satan's lie was more to their benefit than their Creator's commands. Just how LONG this took isn't exactly clear for the fall to occur; just as with Satan. In Satan's case it certainly must have been quite a campaign to get that many angels to rebel that took some time.
No doubt the knowledge of evil and the sin itself was already occuring at some point after the serpent's message was heard; heeded and followed through.
When we are "conformed to the image of His Son" ( Romans 8:29) we see the concept of predestination and "first fruits" there; which would foreshadow a Rapture/Resurrection event. Another way to put it is that those who read the Beatitudes on a surface level or human level of understanding see a humanitarian sort of principle of for instance; how to be "peacemakers"; feed the poor; etc. ANYONE; even an atheist can do such things but it is only the Holiness of God through the Spirit after true conversion that gives us the reality of that in our souls. No amount of penance; self sacrifice or other actions can give us more of a desire for God's Holiness if it doesn't already exist in someone's soul! Nonetheless "faith without works is dead." ( James 2:17). Poducing fruit is essential for a true believer as we see with the Parable of the Sower and the seed.
There are also various levels of suffering in hell as well as rewards in heaven. We see this in Matthew 11:20-24 with several cities in mind. Also we see this in Matthew 13:8 as to the 30 fold and 100 fold producers (also see 1 Cor. 15:41).
I am fairly dogmatic as to those before the age of accountability not being punished for their sin NATURE since they haven't acted out the sin knowing that they are rebels against God. When we look at Romans 7:9-11; we understand this concept; and when we see the story of David and his son who died ( 2 Samuel 12:23) we see evidence of this amongst other places ( Psalm 8:2 for example).
Another way of looking at is is the verse "we will not have this man to rule over us." ( Luke 19:14). This is what all say who go against the Man who God has given all authority to in heaven and earth ( Matt. 28:18). If we disbelieve the living Word ( Heb. 4:12 etal) then we reject His authority and preservation as well as 2 Timothy 3:16 which states all scripture is breathed of God..
Or; Luke 10:16 rejecting you is rejecting me.
Believing seals you with the Holy Spirit
Ephesians 1:13
In whom ye also trusted, after that ye heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation: in whom also after that ye believed, ye were sealed with that holy Spirit of promise,
And to address Jessie's point about the devil believing that is different from the faith we have in believing that Jesus died, was buried and rose again for the remission of our sins. Their belief is not a salvation belief.
James 2:19
"Thou believest that there is one God; thou doest well: the devils also believe, and tremble."
There are MANY clear verses that salvation is by faith aloneJesus paid it ALL even after we are saved we will still sin until we die from this flesh. And that is why we are to be as little children.it is easy to be saved even a small child can be saved.
What comes before chapter 3? Chapter 2, and more specifically, 2 Tim 2:15. If we're going to study any of scripture, we must rightly divide it. In other words, we must study ***in light of the revelation of Jesus Christ, according to the mystery***.
James 2 and Romans 4 are perfect examples. James 1:1 he is specifically talking to the Israel of God (the believing remnant that will "come out" in Jacob's Trouble).
They "contradict each other" and that's perfectly ok. Why? Because both passages are written to different people during different dispensations. James 2: written to the remnant during Jacob's Trouble (the start of the dispensation of the kingdom) and written **for** our learning (but not our doctrine) and Romans 4: written to us in this dispensation of the grace of God (written to us and is our doctrine because we're under the mystery, the dispensation of the grace of God.)
James is not apart of the Body of Christ. Nor is the writer of Hebrews. (Paul didn't write Hebrews - Heb 2:1).
I don't understand why everyone is trying to correct me on something I've stated multiple times now.
Me: 2 Tim 3:16 all scripture is for us but we have to rightly divide it 2 Tim 2:15
You: Yeah but all scripture is for us.
Me: ....yeah I know. You're at the half way mark. Not the finish line. I'm trying to help you open your eyes to truly understanding scripture. It would be wise to inquire the truth God's opened my eyes too. I'm trying to shew you a more excellent way: God's way, how he wants us to go to scripture today.
These verses are in context and contradict what you are claiming, but even though they're in context and you just click or hover over it to read the whole chapter or book you just dismissed it as not being in context.
I noticed your response didn't have any Bible verses supporting your view.
I believe in and stand by Jesus's words. It sounds like you're accusing Jesus of being about "works." You do so at your own risk. I will not be ashamed for believing in what Jesus says, even if people use all kinds of tricks to attack.
Jesus: "If ye love me, keep my commandments." John 14:15
You: No, don't obey, because that's works.
Is that really your position that it's "bad" to obey Jesus, and "good" to not obey Jesus?
If so, that sounds exactly like something satan would say. Such a clever deception to get people to believe its somehow bad to do good and good to do bad. As if God wants people to disobey Him!?
Also I noticed you used the same straw man argument everyone else has been taught to use that if you want to follow Jesus then automatically you're trying to work towards heaven and there's no other possibility. I already said we're saved by grace, which seemed to be ignored. Of course I already answered this fallacy in advance, but maybe you didn't read it or did and claimed this fallacy anyway. Anyway, I feel a moral obligation to counter the lies on here and anyone claiming that its bad to follow and bad to obey Jesus is just is not speaking the truth. The Bible warns Christians of this throughout scripture.
Matthew 7:21-23
Hebrews 10:26
Hebrews 6:4-6
James 2:14-26
Matthew 12:31-32
Romans 14:12
1 Peter 1:5
1 Cor 9:24-27
2 Peter 3:17
Luke 8:5-18
1 Timothy 4:1
2 Peter 2:20-22
Hebrews 3:12
Galatians 5:4
1 Corinthians 15:2-8
James 2:14-26 Stay strong in the word, love u in Christ and Merry Christmas
What scripture verse do you claim to be the source of your idea that faith is a result of salvation?
And what scripture verse do you cite to claim that you're saved now before you're even judged?
Paul said the one verse you're citing, but did you notice that Paul also warned ( 1 Cor 4:14) Christians to obey and not stray from the faith. God gives you that choice- he will allow you to commit despicable evil as we see people do every day, as is covered by the news. Christians also leave the faith, as evidenced by those we know in person and those forum groups like on Reddit where they talk about it. To deny this reality is to deny truth. Did God cause them to leave the faith? No, people did using their own freewill and bad choices. They will not be saved if they are not following Christ. Not all Christians will be "saved" on judgment day.
I don't know if you believe in freewill or not, that God is forcing you to type things on this site you don't want to say of if you believe you are doing it. If God forces you to eat things you don't want to eat like Taco Bell or ice cream. But about freewill of course there's only one truth- either its true or not, not both. And its true for me, so are people claiming its not true for them? And is that God speaking through them that its not true or is that their own doing and how can they 100% prove they are not in control of their bodies whatsoever? Some may be deceived and use this as justification to sin against God and perhaps some may be dishonest about it.
1 Cor 4:5 says to judge nothing before the Lord comes and then the Lord will then judge us, but people seem to like judging themselves as saved so some can then make excuses to disobey God.
Romans 15:5 Paul says we need endurance. He warns us, says to endure, and 1 Corinthians 9:24 says to run the race so to win the prize. The refutes the popular narrative.
1 Peter 1:5 - "...salvation ready to be revealed in the last time.”
Hebrews 10:26, James 2:14-26, Matthew 7:21-23
Also James 2:15-17 "If a brother or sister be naked, and destitute of daily food, And one of you say unto them, Depart in peace, be ye warmed and filled; notwithstanding ye give them not those things which are needful to the body; what doth it profit? Even so faith, if it hath not works, is dead, being alone." + James 2:18-20 "Yea, a man may say, Thou hast faith, and I have works: shew me thy faith without thy works, and I shew thee my faith by my works. Thou believest that there is one GOD; Thou doest well: The devils also believe, and tremble. But wilt thou know, O vain man, that faith without works is dead?"
Chris and Duncan gave great answers but I felt led to add these. Sometimes actions can lead to joy more than words.