I never said nor believed you complained to administration, others read your comments and can react to those comments.
We are ALL the BODY of Christ, by the resurrection of Christ, ALL have become ONE, even our prodigal sons, even though they have not AS YET come to that truth, they will be DRAWN back to CHRIST.
God speaks of things that ARE NOT, as if they ALREADY ARE.
John 12:32 And I, if I be lifted up from the earth, I WILL draw ALL MEN unto me.
Genesis 18:14 ... at the TIME APPOINTED, I will return to thee, according to the TIME of LIFE ....
Matthew 13:30 Let them grow together (the wheat and the tares) ......but gather the wheat into the barn ....
Job 39:12 Wilt thou believe him (a prophecy of the Messiah), that he (Christ) may bring home the SEED (the word of God), and gather it (the word of God)(the SEED)(the WHEAT)(all symbols of CHRIST) into the barn (a symbol of the TEMPLE)
John 12:24 ... except a corn of WHEAT (SEED)(word of God)(CHRIST) fall into the ground (the grave)and DIE, it (Christ)(the WORD)(the SEED) (the WHEAT) abideth alone, but if it (Christ, the SEED, the WORD, the WHEAT) DIE, it (CHRIST) bringeth forth much FRUIT.
Wheat makes more WHEAT, Christ makes MORE CHRIST.
Ephesians 4:4 ..... ONE body .... ONE Spirit ....
John 17:22 .... that they may be ONE as we are ONE ......
Christ ONLY was raised from the DEAD.
Luke 20:36 Neither can they DIED ANYMORE: but they are EQUAL to the ANGELS, being the children of the RESURRECTION.
Isaiah 63:9 ... and the ANGEL of HIS PRESENCE SAVED THEM ....
There are verses where it says that God dwells in thick clouds; i.e. a form of darkness. ( 1 Kings 8:12; also see Psalm 97:2). Darkness in the physical realm is simply the opposite of light. We could say in terms of evil that calamity is created by God for His purposes; although the Lord allows evil spirits to have some authority in that situation (such as the trials with Job). As with Job; the Tribulation also is predetermined to be a time of greater evil than has ever occurred before; or will ever be afterwards. ( Matt. 24:21). Such a trial can be escaped ( Rev. 3:10) by those who are walking in the Spirit as Jesus declared to the Philadelphia church. Those who will endure the Tribulation will be given the strength to overcome; and all those NOT written in the Book of Life will worship the Beast ( Rev. 17:8). In short; physical death represents overcoming; while preserving one's life causes one to ultimately lose it; in terms of eternal life ( John 12:25). This means as a believer it makes sense to "die daily" ( 1 Cor 15:31) which opposes the flesh which desires the opposite.
God did create hell as well; but originally it was meant for the Devil and his angels. ( Matt. 25:41). Clearly; men enter in there because they are following their master; namely Satan rather than God. Therefore; all things work out for the good for those who love God ( Romans 8:28); but conversely; there is no peace for the wicked ( Isaiah 48:22; other passages).
Those who truly know Christ have already gone from darkness into light ( 1 Peter 2:9; etal). We also are able to escape any of the second death ( Rev. 20:7). It is in men's hearts where the god of this world has blinded them; not in the physical realm at this time ( 2 Cor. 4:4). Therefore the darkness of spiritual blindness is basically the essence of evil; so in that sense if we aren't careful what we consider light is really darkness ( Luke 11:35).
Deuteronomy 29:29 shows how we can't fathom God's hidden counsel.
Prophecy was inextricably woven throughout all phases of Jesus' ministry. The Parables had hidden truths on His return; the fate of the Apostles and the future end time events were emphasized in Matthew 24; and His role of God in the flesh was brought to the attention of the Pharisees as well as to those who would worship Him recognizing His Divinity. In this regard; of course hell was discussed more than heaven including the real account of Lazarus and the rich (unnamed) man in hell.
It is truly remarkable to see how the miraculous signs and wonders were unable to wake anyone up to the truth who God didn't elect. Such is the case with the Parable of Lazarus and the rich man. Such is the case in Luke 16:31. In fact; when we consider the Crucifixion and Resurrection even clear evidences weren't enough to convince the Roman officials and those in power. This is abundantly clear from Matthew 28:13 where the soldiers were actually paid for "sleeping on the job" when such an offence by law would be a death penalty certainty. Men will go out of their way to lie; just as we saw with Lazarus being raised by Christ they saught to kill him and Christ because of their insane jealousy of His authority ( John 12:9-11).
In all of this we shouldn't avoid seeing the big picture. Christ in all of His ministry only did the Father's will ( John 8:28; 38; John 12:49). His exaltation; therefore and claims to Diviity were never self serving; but whowed God's plan. Somehow Christ would condescend to being a man; and have a life of sorrow and suffering ( Isaiah 53); then He would take on the sins of all His elect and be our atonement; dying on the cross and rising victorious. EXERCISING His authority would be after God grants it to Him ( John 28:18). He voluntarily emptied Himself of this authority so God could renew it (Phillipians 2:5-8).
Christ knew all men's hearts. We can say that all things were done in the Spirit by Him.
Christ has already come & that in Spirit, He told His disciples; Mark 9:1; Matt 16:28; over 2000 yrs ago, which came in full power at Pentecost.
I will not leave you comfortless, but you will see me again, that your joy maybe full, & Christ doesn't come alone, He brings His Father within Him, They became Ephesians 2:22; John 17:21-23; & they Micah 4:3;
Hebrews 9:28; is Titus 2:11; diffusing the fragrance of His knowledge in every heart. 2Cor 4:6 This is Titus 2:13; describing His 2nd appearance in Spirit. Who continually gives of Himself that Titus 2:14;
As for this son of perdition; it's the old Adamic nature that is rule by Ephesians 6:12; who's coming 2Thessalonians 2:9; this spirit works even deceive the very elect, who, we all must engage with within 2 Cor 10:3-5; Jesus says; Matt 15:18,19; for out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaks, so their within us. Think about this, we all have these thoughts spring up within us, 1 Pet 4:3; thus Jesus commands; Luke 14:27; The ones, Satan does deceive is explain, 2 Thessalonians 2:10-12; they refuse to believe the Witness, whom God has place within conscience. John 16:8; John 12:47-50; Jesus says, 8:24; Therefore were He has gone one cannot go.
Both seeds are spiritual, both kingdoms are within mankind.
This rapture theory John 17:11:15 "not to take them out of the world". But describes receiving 1Pet 1:5-9;The cumulation is the Baptism of the Holy Spirt, describing 2 Cor 10:6; resulting from Titus 3:5; by 1Pet 1:23; unto John 3:3; the chaff, ( old man sin nature is thoroughly purges out without a trace, Daniel 2:34,35; these earthen vessels, 1Cor 15:48,49; ) the wheat (new man created in the image of Him that created him) is gather unto the Gardener, we're His & He's ours, Acts 1:9-11; Daniel 7:13;
It's a spiritual encounter & habitation with the One true God, John 17:24; here & now, Acts 4:32,33;
Do you perceive the wonderous honor & glory of God's Great Salvation, on earth as it is in heaven.
Did not know it was Messiah the King in Dan. 9:25, whether that would matter, we know He is King.
I have enjoyed this discussion because of its importance not on salvation but for those who will be living when the end starts. This 70th week, if it is in the future or if it has been fulfilled in the past makes a world of difference in what people are expecting to happen.
If the 70th week is in the future there will be the 7-year pre, mid, or post-tribulation as taught, but if it has been fulfilled in the past that would make that false. What outcome would that have on those who are here?
Daniels people, the lost sheep of Israel, Matt. 10:5-6 did not reject Him, it was the corrupt rulers of Jerusalem and the temple, Luke 16:14-15 whose eyes were blinded and Jesus cried over it Luke 19:39-44. Many of them believed in Him but would not confess Him, John 12:42. Jesus the Messiah had to be cut off/sacrificed, Psalm 22:16-18Isaiah 53:8-12 to atone for sins, Dan. 9:26.
If the priests and leaders of Jerusalem had received Jesus as their Messiah and had not conspired with the Romans to crucify Him, there would be no atonement sacrifice for the salvation of the Jews first and also to the Greek/Gentiles, it was God's plan.
Daniel 9:25-27 is a precise prediction of when Jesus would come and be anointed. In the scripture from Matthew to Acts 8:4-5, there is strong evidence without assumption of a 7-year amount of time from the anointing of Jesus the Messiah and His 3.5-year ministry/confirming the covenant to the lost sheep of Israel, Daniel's people.
His crucifixion in the middle and 3.5 more years the gospel was to only the lost sheep, Daniel's people by Jesus through His apostles, thousands were saved, then the death of Stephen, and the gospel going to the Gentiles, to make the Jews jealous, the branch broke off, but still offered to the Jews.
Amen, & I think these verses say it best.. John 3:17 For God sent not His son into the world to condemn the world: but that the world through Him might be saved. 9:5 As long as I am in the world, I am the light of the world. 12:31 Now is the judgement of this world: now shall the prince of this world be cast out. 12:47 And if any man hear my words & believe not, I judge him not; For I came not to judge the world, but to save the world (it's a choice). 16:33 These things I have spoken unto you, that in me ye (you) might have peace, in the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world. 17:14, I have given them the word, & the world hath hated them, because they are not of the world, even as I am not of the world. 1 Corinthians 7:31 they that use this world, as not abusing it: for the fashion of this world passeth away. James 4:4 Ye adulterers & adulteresses, know ye not that the friendship of the world is enmity with God? whosoever therefore will be a friend of the world, is the enemy of God. 1John 2:15 Love not the world, neither the things that are in the world. If any man love the world, the love of the Father is not in Him. 2:16 For all that is in the world, the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes & the 'pride' of life, is NOT of the Father, but is of the world. 5:4 For whatsoever is born of God, overcome the world & this is the victory that overcome the world, even our faith. *next verse I have a Qs: does it mean that we don't have to believe in Christ walk on earth to be saved yet we must believe that He died for our sins to be saved? Matthew 12:32 And whosoever speaketh a word against the son of man, it shall be forgiven him: but whosoever speaketh against the holy Ghost, it shall not be forgiven him, neither in this world, neither in the world to come*. which kinda goes with John 12:47 does it not? I've always heard & live by, "just because we are in the world doesn't mean we have to be of the world".! God bless 'Texsis'
About Judas, it is true that we don't know much about him apart that he eventually became a thief and kept stealing money from the bag ( John 12:6), so it seems he had some issues with money. I have also heard those theories about Judas but I don't know where they rely on, in which writtings.
I am sorry about your sons. My son also left the faith when he was 15, now he is 20, although he was born in the church. But we must trust God that He will eventually find a way to draw them back. This is a promise to believers, remember what Paul and Silas said to the guard in Philippi, Acts 17:31, "And they said, Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, and thou shalt be saved, AND THY HOUSE.". There isn't much we can do on our own apart from praying and talking to them, if and when they wish to hear. I know very many cases of parents who didn't quit and insisted in praying about their kids and finally saw marvelous results. So be encouraged.
Now about the belief of OSAS I believe they found a method to overcome all those cases we see in the Bible, about believers who mess their salvation up, but also cases in the real life. The method is called "not truly saved". What does that mean? I know people who believed, were born again, lived a sanctified life for years, sacrificing many things for their faith, like their fame, even their job, they lost friends and relatives but sometime in their lifes for their own reasons they decided to go back to the sinful world and live as before. Weren't they truly saved? So what were they doing all those years in the church? What for? Were they masochists? Because being a christian means mainly sacrificies in every aspect of your life.
In the parable of the prodigal son we see a happy end, but in real life the end is not always happy. I always have in mind a couple such cases in my church. People who I met and had companionship with them for a long time.
Brother David has made several comments about God's words being parables.
You have said God's words are often metaphors.
Revelation says his words are symbols.
2 Peter 3:7 But the heavens and earth ....
There are LITERAL heavens and earth; but, they are also metaphors and symbols in a parable.
heaven and earth are MAN, earth being the carnal form of man where deception rules, heaven being the born again man where truth and life rule.
We are the GARDEN OF (eden) GOD where the ONE TREE that bears BOTH the knowledge of GOOD and EVIL is in the MIDST thereof.
Man; made of EARTH (dust), has to be destroyed, and become a creation of Spirit, the new heaven and new earth.
2 Peter 3:7 But the heavens and earth, which are now, by the SAME WORD (that made them earth) are keep in store (since the day or resurrection) reserved unto fire against the day of JUDGEMENT ...
For you and I and all others alive at this given moment; we are being JUDGED by the written word's of God, if you don't believe his words: DEATH and the GRAVE; if you believe HIS WORDS, you become a SON OF GOD.
Christ is THE WORD OF JUDGEMENT, and the FIRE (a metaphor and symbol) that does the JUDGING.
Judges 6:21 And the angel of the Lord (Christ) put forth the end of the staff that was in his hand, and touch the FLESH (dust of the earth) and the unleavened cakes; and there rose up FIRE out of the ROCK (symbolic of Christ) and CONSUMED the FLESH (dust of the earth) and unleavened cakes ......
Christ was the FIRE in the bush in the wilderness, he was the ROCK in the wilderness.
Hebrews 12:29 Our God is a CONSUMING FIRE
Christ is THE WORD
Your being JUDGED NOW BY the WORD and FIRE, and if you will JUDGE YOURSELF NOW; by God's words, you want be judged with the world.
1 Corinthians 11:31 If we would judge ourselves NOW, we should not be judged.
John 12:48 .... the words I have spoken (from Genesis thru Revelation), the same will judge him .....
The spelling of Esaias that you see in Matthew 3:3, as well as other places in the New Testament (such as Matthew 4:14, John 12:38, Romans 9:27, etc.), is because the KJV translators preferred to record Isaiah's name as it's written in Greek (since the NT was written in that language). Whereas in the Old Testament, Isaiah is written as shown, the equivalent of the Hebrew, Ysha'yah (pr. yeh-shaw-yah), which means 'God (Yahweh) is salvation'.
JESUS IS THE ONLY HUMAN WHO WAS AND IS TOTALLY RIGHTEOUS IN ALL OF HIS WAYS
This is because He is the one and only Son of God and Son of Man. He incarnated Himself (as God the Son) into a human body prepared for Him by the Father in Mary. From conception on, Jesus was fully God and fully man in one Person, the Person of the
Son of God. He is the only Incarnated Being in all of creation. Being indwelt with the Holy Spirit is not an incarnation as it is two persons inhabiting one body, the believer and the Holy Spirit. The Holy Spirit's presence in the believer is not natural to mankind since the fall, but one of the wonderful blessings promised by Jesus, our Saviour. With Jesus, it is one Person, (the Son) taking upon Himself fully a human nature with a body, soul, and spirit. When one looks at Jesus one sees The Son of God in a fleshly body, not the Son of God overtaking an already existing human's body. And because of the unity of the Persons of the Godhead, Jesus could say, if you have seen Me, you have seen the Father ( John 12:45; John 14:9).
Before creation and before all time, the three members of the Godhead existed in complete joy, love, and unity. Together They willed to create a universe that would include heavenly spirit beings and beings made of matter. The heavenly beings and humans are the two groups of beings that were created to have relationship with the Godhead. Before creation, the Godhead decided that They would create both heavenly beings and humans capable of disobeying Him. Satan was the first to sin, being lifted up with pride, attempting to become equal with God and to usurp Him so that the heavenly hosts will worship him instead of their Maker. As many as one third of the angels followed after Satan into sin. God knew this would happen. He already planned not to offer salvation to fallen angels, but prepared the lake of fire for them to spend all of eternity when they are judged. ....
The earth is the Lord's and the fulness thereof. 1Corinthians 10:26, Psalms 24:1, Psalms 89:11, Psalms 50:12, Ephesians 1:10, Daniel 2:20-22, Genesis 1:28, Luke 9:1, 1Corinthians 15:23-28, John 19:5-11
Proverbs 29:2, Revelation 3:10,
Matthew 28:18, Acts 1:8, Matthew 18:18, Mark 16:17-19
Matthew 28:19, Mark 16:16, Acts 2:38, Acts 19:1-12, Ephesians 4:5,
I think the main point is the outward living life, dead to the flesh ( selfishness, bad actions, etc. ) resurrection in the last days, is the goal. Mark 10:38, Luke 12:50, Colossians 2:12-14, 1Peter 3:18-22,
* Romans 6:3,4, please read all of Romans 6, chapter, Colossians 3:1-17,
John 12:23-36, Romans 8:13, Luke 14:27-33,
Hopefully these are helpful
If you have trouble understanding pray for wisdom: James 1:5
My understanding is the arm of the LORD revealed was for Israel and Jesus came for the lost sheep of Israel Matt. 15:24 and fulfill the law and the prophets, Matt. 26:54.
John 12:37-41 But though he had done so many miracles before them, yet they believed not on him: 38 That the saying of Esaias the prophet might be fulfilled, which he spake, Lord, who hath believed our report? and to whom hath the arm of the Lord been revealed 39 Therefore they could not believe, because that Esaias said again, 40 He hath blinded their eyes, and hardened their heart; that they should not see with their eyes, nor understand with their heart, and be converted, and I should heal them. 41 These things said Esaias, when he saw his glory, and spake of him.
Also, there is Matthew 8:14-17Luke 22:35-38Acts 8:26-35Romans 10:11-21.
Whatever side of the whole issue one takes in regard to Predestination and free will; we all as Bible believers (unless Universalists)
accept that some in the end are saved; and some are lost. We shall also assume that we are not of the camp that doesn't believe in a literal hell (which; by default should cause an issue with a literal heaven); and finally we will accept that eternity means eternity; not some annihilation.
All would agree that there is a set number saved and lost in the end. Despite what may be assumed by some; there is still an impetus thrusting people out to proclaim the Gospel for "Arminians" and "Calvinists." In fact; looking at the history of Whitfield; for example and other reformers; as well as personal friends of mine who are all "Calvanists" it could be argued they are the majority of those evangelizing. The emphasis is on proclaiming the Good News and having the Spirit draw those forth who He will; rather than what some call "decisional regeneration." One could say that neither viewpoint or any in-between one in regrad to free will and predestination takes away for a true believer the infallibility of the entire text of 66 books of the Bible.
What is most vital; therefore is to take the entire Word of God and consume it. If we try to pigeonhole anything to fit into our understanding of a doctrine and disregard those seemingly contradictory verses then we are doing violence to scripture. Revelation 22:18-19 is a dire warning against that book at least; it should stand also to other violations of scripture.
Of course; if we are to start a Theocracy as some of the reformers did where men are forced to believe some tenet out of fear of man's punishment we are going against what we claim about God drawing all men to Himself ( John 12:32-33). The same thing can be said when peer or family pressure exists and/or someone is "culturally or born into" Christianity. When the Spirit prompts it IS time for decision.
It doesn't seem so. Reading through John 12:37-43, this is the prophecy of Isaiah being fulfilled. It tells us that they could not believe because God had blinded their eyes and hardened their hearts. God did that to them. They were not His sheep. They had no response. So He blinded them so they could not come.
Some of the leaders actually believed in Jesus Christ as Messiah. But because they knew the Pharisees took everyone that believed, and excommunicated them, they didn't confess Him.
John 12:43 gives us the reason. Notice it doesn't say they love the praise of God, it says they loved the praise of men more than the praise of God. They had a choice!
What would cause a person to not know that he's lukewarm?
They are lacking gold tried in the fire.
They are naked lacking white raiment.
And apparently don't know it. "and anoint thine eyes with eyesalve, that thou mayest see."
The fining pot is for silver, and the furnace for gold: but the LORD trieth the hearts. Proverbs 17:3.
Gold is purged of dross ( Isaiah 1:25), so by the refining fire of temptations the faithful are cleansed from pride and self-reliance and the pollutions of sin.
When we are self-reliant, we are naked before the Lord.
For the word of God is quick, and powerful, and sharper than any twoedged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart.
Neither is there any creature that is not manifest in his sight: but all things are naked and opened unto the eyes of him with whom we have to do. Hebrews 4:12-13. (I counsel thee to buy of me gold tried in the fire, that thou mayest be rich; and white raiment, that thou mayest be clothed, and that the shame of thy nakedness do not appear;
Anoint thine eyes with eyesalve, that thou mayest see.
I believe this is blinded by pride, this reminds me of the Pharisees.
Matthew 6:1-5.
John 12:43. For they loved the praise of men more than the praise of God.
There is no conviction in a person who is self-sufficient. spreading the gospel is not on the top of their list. Walking in the spirit is only in the church building afterwards everything else is just a discussion forum or a round table or a competition where we compete for first place.
The word of God is handled to loosely. If we have faith in the inerrancy of the word of God, we should display it cautiously.
Don't do it as a hobby, it may not be your calling.
Don't counseling on things you don't understand.
The only barrier to truth is to think we already have it.
For the time is come that judgment must begin at the house of God: and if it first begin at us, what shall the end be of them that obey not the gospel of God? 1 Peter 4:17.
Often we speak of a revival, sometimes revival seems it is what the church needs rather than the nation. The nation is doing what nations do.
The church is set apart and is to be light to ALL the world/nations.
Here's what I observed, Some seems to minister to draw people to themselves.
They are thinking they are that light and rightfully so. But what is you/light supposed to shine on? Who's in the midst of the candlesticks? Jesus!
Today we see people "But not everyone" shine light upon themselves. ( Notice I didn't say "the light.)
Is that an oil filled light?
Can there be a revival in this way?
I'm sure we can agree on this matter, The question is "DO I DO THIS?" We should ask ourselves.
Here is also what we should ask ourselves.
Does this glorify the Lord?
Am I doing this by the Spirit of God or the lust of the flesh?
Is it the Lords glory I am seeking?
Is this moved by the Spirit?
If Gods spirit resides in you you should know!
Now is the judgment of this world: now shall the prince of this world be cast out.
And I, if I be lifted up from the earth, will draw all men unto me. John 12:31-32.
HOW DOES THE WORLD SEE US?
Boy does this matter!
Acts 2:44-47 ?
John 13:35 ?
Here is just a few things that would hender these 2 verses?
Certainly Leaven and the tares plays a role.
When the world look at us from the outside they see some of their own.
Pride by the work of their own hands.
Materialism.
Racism.
Ect.ect.
We also get along worse than them considering we are supposed to be led by the Spirit.
Jude 1:4
Hebrews 5:12-14.
2 Peter 2:10-15.
This is why everything we do should be what is (caused) by the Holyspirit.
Don't let pride keep you from your purpose and proper place.
Psalm 1 is only five verses long; but contains several very important themes. Namely; it is avoiding heeding to the council of the wicked in terms of taking to heart; the character; longevity and wisdom of the righteous and their eternal destinies; and the opposing state of the wicked.
There are warnings for those who would esteem men and exalt those who the world does in Luke 16:15. The foolishness of God is greater than any of man's vain knowledge ( 1 Corinthians 1:25). We see this pattern among many of the Pharisees who believed but becuase they did not wish to lose their position in the Synagogue remained silent. (see John 12:42). We must heed warnings such as that of Jesus who stated that "he who confesses me before men I will confess before the Father in heaven in Matthew 10:32 and the denial of those who will deny Him in the very next verse. We see what the wicked counsel of the Jews led to with the crucifixion of Christ. At the very least we must heed to Revelation 3:11 which in my book is a very undervalued admonition about losing our reward and basically handing it over to another. We also must take care not to behave as the world does with gossip and chatter about every controversy.
Verse 2 and 3 discuss the characteristics of the righteous. We are reminded here of Psalm 119 where the longest chapter in all scripture repeats over and over the love of the law of God which is only possible with a regenerated heart; else it ends up being religious self-righteousness. The result of such a character is perseverance of character; and blessings for this life and the one to come.
Verse 4 and 5 discuss the wicked. It shows how they won't even stand at the judgment. That makes it clear why we shouldn't stand with them in the first place. They are compared to chaff (also seen in the N.T. and in Job 21:18; etc).
The last verse shows how God keeps His sheep; and the wicked basically are on a default mode to destruction.
In order to get to the heart of the meaning of Revelation 2:5, one must consider the context. Revelation 2:11 relates something extremely vital to understanding the exact meaning. Bible preservation is a vitally important doctrine of Christianity, not of the original manuscripts themselves, but of the God-inspired original text. Not just wispy bodies of thoughts and ideas, but the very words and meaning. That, God's perfect Word, is what God arbitrarily preserves through the human generations ( Mark 13:31, Psalm 12:6,7, John 12:48, and others), which God has identified as the KJV for the past four centuries. Note carefully that John becomes an amanuensis to the glorified Jesus Christ. The words John wrote were dictated by Jesus. They are His direct Words to these churches. Contextually, we can easily see that the Lord's Words are doctrinal in nature. Salvation is not by "works," so Jesus is saying that, over time, the saints of the Ephesian church had drifted into some wayward error. This isn't hard to believe, for virtually all the original churches had waned in doctrine in various degrees by the end of the first century. Therefore, it is vital to obey 2 Timothy 2:15, "Study to show thyself approved unto God.rightly dividing the Word of truth."
I never said nor believed you complained to administration, others read your comments and can react to those comments.
We are ALL the BODY of Christ, by the resurrection of Christ, ALL have become ONE, even our prodigal sons, even though they have not AS YET come to that truth, they will be DRAWN back to CHRIST.
God speaks of things that ARE NOT, as if they ALREADY ARE.
John 12:32 And I, if I be lifted up from the earth, I WILL draw ALL MEN unto me.
Genesis 18:14 ... at the TIME APPOINTED, I will return to thee, according to the TIME of LIFE ....
John 14:6 I am the way, the truth and the LIFE.
God Bless YOU
Matthew 13:30 Let them grow together (the wheat and the tares) ......but gather the wheat into the barn ....
Job 39:12 Wilt thou believe him (a prophecy of the Messiah), that he (Christ) may bring home the SEED (the word of God), and gather it (the word of God)(the SEED)(the WHEAT)(all symbols of CHRIST) into the barn (a symbol of the TEMPLE)
John 12:24 ... except a corn of WHEAT (SEED)(word of God)(CHRIST) fall into the ground (the grave)and DIE, it (Christ)(the WORD)(the SEED) (the WHEAT) abideth alone, but if it (Christ, the SEED, the WORD, the WHEAT) DIE, it (CHRIST) bringeth forth much FRUIT.
Wheat makes more WHEAT, Christ makes MORE CHRIST.
Ephesians 4:4 ..... ONE body .... ONE Spirit ....
John 17:22 .... that they may be ONE as we are ONE ......
Christ ONLY was raised from the DEAD.
Luke 20:36 Neither can they DIED ANYMORE: but they are EQUAL to the ANGELS, being the children of the RESURRECTION.
Isaiah 63:9 ... and the ANGEL of HIS PRESENCE SAVED THEM ....
God bless you.
God did create hell as well; but originally it was meant for the Devil and his angels. ( Matt. 25:41). Clearly; men enter in there because they are following their master; namely Satan rather than God. Therefore; all things work out for the good for those who love God ( Romans 8:28); but conversely; there is no peace for the wicked ( Isaiah 48:22; other passages).
Those who truly know Christ have already gone from darkness into light ( 1 Peter 2:9; etal). We also are able to escape any of the second death ( Rev. 20:7). It is in men's hearts where the god of this world has blinded them; not in the physical realm at this time ( 2 Cor. 4:4). Therefore the darkness of spiritual blindness is basically the essence of evil; so in that sense if we aren't careful what we consider light is really darkness ( Luke 11:35).
Deuteronomy 29:29 shows how we can't fathom God's hidden counsel.
Prophecy was inextricably woven throughout all phases of Jesus' ministry. The Parables had hidden truths on His return; the fate of the Apostles and the future end time events were emphasized in Matthew 24; and His role of God in the flesh was brought to the attention of the Pharisees as well as to those who would worship Him recognizing His Divinity. In this regard; of course hell was discussed more than heaven including the real account of Lazarus and the rich (unnamed) man in hell.
It is truly remarkable to see how the miraculous signs and wonders were unable to wake anyone up to the truth who God didn't elect. Such is the case with the Parable of Lazarus and the rich man. Such is the case in Luke 16:31. In fact; when we consider the Crucifixion and Resurrection even clear evidences weren't enough to convince the Roman officials and those in power. This is abundantly clear from Matthew 28:13 where the soldiers were actually paid for "sleeping on the job" when such an offence by law would be a death penalty certainty. Men will go out of their way to lie; just as we saw with Lazarus being raised by Christ they saught to kill him and Christ because of their insane jealousy of His authority ( John 12:9-11).
In all of this we shouldn't avoid seeing the big picture. Christ in all of His ministry only did the Father's will ( John 8:28; 38; John 12:49). His exaltation; therefore and claims to Diviity were never self serving; but whowed God's plan. Somehow Christ would condescend to being a man; and have a life of sorrow and suffering ( Isaiah 53); then He would take on the sins of all His elect and be our atonement; dying on the cross and rising victorious. EXERCISING His authority would be after God grants it to Him ( John 28:18). He voluntarily emptied Himself of this authority so God could renew it (Phillipians 2:5-8).
Christ knew all men's hearts. We can say that all things were done in the Spirit by Him.
Christ has already come & that in Spirit, He told His disciples; Mark 9:1; Matt 16:28; over 2000 yrs ago, which came in full power at Pentecost.
I will not leave you comfortless, but you will see me again, that your joy maybe full, & Christ doesn't come alone, He brings His Father within Him, They became Ephesians 2:22; John 17:21-23; & they Micah 4:3;
Hebrews 9:28; is Titus 2:11; diffusing the fragrance of His knowledge in every heart. 2Cor 4:6 This is Titus 2:13; describing His 2nd appearance in Spirit. Who continually gives of Himself that Titus 2:14;
As for this son of perdition; it's the old Adamic nature that is rule by Ephesians 6:12; who's coming 2Thessalonians 2:9; this spirit works even deceive the very elect, who, we all must engage with within 2 Cor 10:3-5; Jesus says; Matt 15:18,19; for out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaks, so their within us. Think about this, we all have these thoughts spring up within us, 1 Pet 4:3; thus Jesus commands; Luke 14:27; The ones, Satan does deceive is explain, 2 Thessalonians 2:10-12; they refuse to believe the Witness, whom God has place within conscience. John 16:8; John 12:47-50; Jesus says, 8:24; Therefore were He has gone one cannot go.
Both seeds are spiritual, both kingdoms are within mankind.
This rapture theory John 17:11:15 "not to take them out of the world". But describes receiving 1Pet 1:5-9;The cumulation is the Baptism of the Holy Spirt, describing 2 Cor 10:6; resulting from Titus 3:5; by 1Pet 1:23; unto John 3:3; the chaff, ( old man sin nature is thoroughly purges out without a trace, Daniel 2:34,35; these earthen vessels, 1Cor 15:48,49; ) the wheat (new man created in the image of Him that created him) is gather unto the Gardener, we're His & He's ours, Acts 1:9-11; Daniel 7:13;
It's a spiritual encounter & habitation with the One true God, John 17:24; here & now, Acts 4:32,33;
Do you perceive the wonderous honor & glory of God's Great Salvation, on earth as it is in heaven.
Part 1
Did not know it was Messiah the King in Dan. 9:25, whether that would matter, we know He is King.
I have enjoyed this discussion because of its importance not on salvation but for those who will be living when the end starts. This 70th week, if it is in the future or if it has been fulfilled in the past makes a world of difference in what people are expecting to happen.
If the 70th week is in the future there will be the 7-year pre, mid, or post-tribulation as taught, but if it has been fulfilled in the past that would make that false. What outcome would that have on those who are here?
Daniels people, the lost sheep of Israel, Matt. 10:5-6 did not reject Him, it was the corrupt rulers of Jerusalem and the temple, Luke 16:14-15 whose eyes were blinded and Jesus cried over it Luke 19:39-44. Many of them believed in Him but would not confess Him, John 12:42. Jesus the Messiah had to be cut off/sacrificed, Psalm 22:16-18 Isaiah 53:8-12 to atone for sins, Dan. 9:26.
If the priests and leaders of Jerusalem had received Jesus as their Messiah and had not conspired with the Romans to crucify Him, there would be no atonement sacrifice for the salvation of the Jews first and also to the Greek/Gentiles, it was God's plan.
Daniel 9:25-27 is a precise prediction of when Jesus would come and be anointed. In the scripture from Matthew to Acts 8:4-5, there is strong evidence without assumption of a 7-year amount of time from the anointing of Jesus the Messiah and His 3.5-year ministry/confirming the covenant to the lost sheep of Israel, Daniel's people.
His crucifixion in the middle and 3.5 more years the gospel was to only the lost sheep, Daniel's people by Jesus through His apostles, thousands were saved, then the death of Stephen, and the gospel going to the Gentiles, to make the Jews jealous, the branch broke off, but still offered to the Jews.
See Part 2
About Judas, it is true that we don't know much about him apart that he eventually became a thief and kept stealing money from the bag ( John 12:6), so it seems he had some issues with money. I have also heard those theories about Judas but I don't know where they rely on, in which writtings.
I am sorry about your sons. My son also left the faith when he was 15, now he is 20, although he was born in the church. But we must trust God that He will eventually find a way to draw them back. This is a promise to believers, remember what Paul and Silas said to the guard in Philippi, Acts 17:31, "And they said, Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, and thou shalt be saved, AND THY HOUSE.". There isn't much we can do on our own apart from praying and talking to them, if and when they wish to hear. I know very many cases of parents who didn't quit and insisted in praying about their kids and finally saw marvelous results. So be encouraged.
Now about the belief of OSAS I believe they found a method to overcome all those cases we see in the Bible, about believers who mess their salvation up, but also cases in the real life. The method is called "not truly saved". What does that mean? I know people who believed, were born again, lived a sanctified life for years, sacrificing many things for their faith, like their fame, even their job, they lost friends and relatives but sometime in their lifes for their own reasons they decided to go back to the sinful world and live as before. Weren't they truly saved? So what were they doing all those years in the church? What for? Were they masochists? Because being a christian means mainly sacrificies in every aspect of your life.
In the parable of the prodigal son we see a happy end, but in real life the end is not always happy. I always have in mind a couple such cases in my church. People who I met and had companionship with them for a long time.
2 Peter 3:7
Brother David has made several comments about God's words being parables.
You have said God's words are often metaphors.
Revelation says his words are symbols.
2 Peter 3:7 But the heavens and earth ....
There are LITERAL heavens and earth; but, they are also metaphors and symbols in a parable.
heaven and earth are MAN, earth being the carnal form of man where deception rules, heaven being the born again man where truth and life rule.
We are the GARDEN OF (eden) GOD where the ONE TREE that bears BOTH the knowledge of GOOD and EVIL is in the MIDST thereof.
Man; made of EARTH (dust), has to be destroyed, and become a creation of Spirit, the new heaven and new earth.
2 Peter 3:7 But the heavens and earth, which are now, by the SAME WORD (that made them earth) are keep in store (since the day or resurrection) reserved unto fire against the day of JUDGEMENT ...
For you and I and all others alive at this given moment; we are being JUDGED by the written word's of God, if you don't believe his words: DEATH and the GRAVE; if you believe HIS WORDS, you become a SON OF GOD.
Christ is THE WORD OF JUDGEMENT, and the FIRE (a metaphor and symbol) that does the JUDGING.
Judges 6:21 And the angel of the Lord (Christ) put forth the end of the staff that was in his hand, and touch the FLESH (dust of the earth) and the unleavened cakes; and there rose up FIRE out of the ROCK (symbolic of Christ) and CONSUMED the FLESH (dust of the earth) and unleavened cakes ......
Christ was the FIRE in the bush in the wilderness, he was the ROCK in the wilderness.
Hebrews 12:29 Our God is a CONSUMING FIRE
Christ is THE WORD
Your being JUDGED NOW BY the WORD and FIRE, and if you will JUDGE YOURSELF NOW; by God's words, you want be judged with the world.
1 Corinthians 11:31 If we would judge ourselves NOW, we should not be judged.
John 12:48 .... the words I have spoken (from Genesis thru Revelation), the same will judge him .....
God Bless YOU!
This is because He is the one and only Son of God and Son of Man. He incarnated Himself (as God the Son) into a human body prepared for Him by the Father in Mary. From conception on, Jesus was fully God and fully man in one Person, the Person of the
Son of God. He is the only Incarnated Being in all of creation. Being indwelt with the Holy Spirit is not an incarnation as it is two persons inhabiting one body, the believer and the Holy Spirit. The Holy Spirit's presence in the believer is not natural to mankind since the fall, but one of the wonderful blessings promised by Jesus, our Saviour. With Jesus, it is one Person, (the Son) taking upon Himself fully a human nature with a body, soul, and spirit. When one looks at Jesus one sees The Son of God in a fleshly body, not the Son of God overtaking an already existing human's body. And because of the unity of the Persons of the Godhead, Jesus could say, if you have seen Me, you have seen the Father ( John 12:45; John 14:9).
Before creation and before all time, the three members of the Godhead existed in complete joy, love, and unity. Together They willed to create a universe that would include heavenly spirit beings and beings made of matter. The heavenly beings and humans are the two groups of beings that were created to have relationship with the Godhead. Before creation, the Godhead decided that They would create both heavenly beings and humans capable of disobeying Him. Satan was the first to sin, being lifted up with pride, attempting to become equal with God and to usurp Him so that the heavenly hosts will worship him instead of their Maker. As many as one third of the angels followed after Satan into sin. God knew this would happen. He already planned not to offer salvation to fallen angels, but prepared the lake of fire for them to spend all of eternity when they are judged. ....
continued
Proverbs 29:2, Revelation 3:10,
Matthew 28:18, Acts 1:8, Matthew 18:18, Mark 16:17-19
John 12:31?
Thanks!
Matthew 28:19, Mark 16:16, Acts 2:38, Acts 19:1-12, Ephesians 4:5,
I think the main point is the outward living life, dead to the flesh ( selfishness, bad actions, etc. ) resurrection in the last days, is the goal. Mark 10:38, Luke 12:50, Colossians 2:12-14, 1Peter 3:18-22,
* Romans 6:3,4, please read all of Romans 6, chapter, Colossians 3:1-17,
John 12:23-36, Romans 8:13, Luke 14:27-33,
Hopefully these are helpful
If you have trouble understanding pray for wisdom: James 1:5
My understanding is the arm of the LORD revealed was for Israel and Jesus came for the lost sheep of Israel Matt. 15:24 and fulfill the law and the prophets, Matt. 26:54.
John 12:37-41 But though he had done so many miracles before them, yet they believed not on him: 38 That the saying of Esaias the prophet might be fulfilled, which he spake, Lord, who hath believed our report? and to whom hath the arm of the Lord been revealed 39 Therefore they could not believe, because that Esaias said again, 40 He hath blinded their eyes, and hardened their heart; that they should not see with their eyes, nor understand with their heart, and be converted, and I should heal them. 41 These things said Esaias, when he saw his glory, and spake of him.
Also, there is Matthew 8:14-17 Luke 22:35-38 Acts 8:26-35 Romans 10:11-21.
God bless,
RLW
Whatever side of the whole issue one takes in regard to Predestination and free will; we all as Bible believers (unless Universalists)
accept that some in the end are saved; and some are lost. We shall also assume that we are not of the camp that doesn't believe in a literal hell (which; by default should cause an issue with a literal heaven); and finally we will accept that eternity means eternity; not some annihilation.
All would agree that there is a set number saved and lost in the end. Despite what may be assumed by some; there is still an impetus thrusting people out to proclaim the Gospel for "Arminians" and "Calvinists." In fact; looking at the history of Whitfield; for example and other reformers; as well as personal friends of mine who are all "Calvanists" it could be argued they are the majority of those evangelizing. The emphasis is on proclaiming the Good News and having the Spirit draw those forth who He will; rather than what some call "decisional regeneration." One could say that neither viewpoint or any in-between one in regrad to free will and predestination takes away for a true believer the infallibility of the entire text of 66 books of the Bible.
What is most vital; therefore is to take the entire Word of God and consume it. If we try to pigeonhole anything to fit into our understanding of a doctrine and disregard those seemingly contradictory verses then we are doing violence to scripture. Revelation 22:18-19 is a dire warning against that book at least; it should stand also to other violations of scripture.
Of course; if we are to start a Theocracy as some of the reformers did where men are forced to believe some tenet out of fear of man's punishment we are going against what we claim about God drawing all men to Himself ( John 12:32-33). The same thing can be said when peer or family pressure exists and/or someone is "culturally or born into" Christianity. When the Spirit prompts it IS time for decision.
It doesn't seem so. Reading through John 12:37-43, this is the prophecy of Isaiah being fulfilled. It tells us that they could not believe because God had blinded their eyes and hardened their hearts. God did that to them. They were not His sheep. They had no response. So He blinded them so they could not come.
Some of the leaders actually believed in Jesus Christ as Messiah. But because they knew the Pharisees took everyone that believed, and excommunicated them, they didn't confess Him.
John 12:43 gives us the reason. Notice it doesn't say they love the praise of God, it says they loved the praise of men more than the praise of God. They had a choice!
What does lukewarm looks like in a believer?
What would cause a person to not know that he's lukewarm?
They are lacking gold tried in the fire.
They are naked lacking white raiment.
And apparently don't know it. "and anoint thine eyes with eyesalve, that thou mayest see."
The fining pot is for silver, and the furnace for gold: but the LORD trieth the hearts. Proverbs 17:3.
Gold is purged of dross ( Isaiah 1:25), so by the refining fire of temptations the faithful are cleansed from pride and self-reliance and the pollutions of sin.
When we are self-reliant, we are naked before the Lord.
For the word of God is quick, and powerful, and sharper than any twoedged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart.
Neither is there any creature that is not manifest in his sight: but all things are naked and opened unto the eyes of him with whom we have to do. Hebrews 4:12-13. (I counsel thee to buy of me gold tried in the fire, that thou mayest be rich; and white raiment, that thou mayest be clothed, and that the shame of thy nakedness do not appear;
Anoint thine eyes with eyesalve, that thou mayest see.
I believe this is blinded by pride, this reminds me of the Pharisees.
Matthew 6:1-5.
John 12:43. For they loved the praise of men more than the praise of God.
There is no conviction in a person who is self-sufficient. spreading the gospel is not on the top of their list. Walking in the spirit is only in the church building afterwards everything else is just a discussion forum or a round table or a competition where we compete for first place.
The word of God is handled to loosely. If we have faith in the inerrancy of the word of God, we should display it cautiously.
Don't do it as a hobby, it may not be your calling.
Don't counseling on things you don't understand.
The only barrier to truth is to think we already have it.
Often we speak of a revival, sometimes revival seems it is what the church needs rather than the nation. The nation is doing what nations do.
The church is set apart and is to be light to ALL the world/nations.
Here's what I observed, Some seems to minister to draw people to themselves.
They are thinking they are that light and rightfully so. But what is you/light supposed to shine on? Who's in the midst of the candlesticks? Jesus!
Today we see people "But not everyone" shine light upon themselves. ( Notice I didn't say "the light.)
Is that an oil filled light?
Can there be a revival in this way?
I'm sure we can agree on this matter, The question is "DO I DO THIS?" We should ask ourselves.
Here is also what we should ask ourselves.
Does this glorify the Lord?
Am I doing this by the Spirit of God or the lust of the flesh?
Is it the Lords glory I am seeking?
Is this moved by the Spirit?
If Gods spirit resides in you you should know!
Now is the judgment of this world: now shall the prince of this world be cast out.
And I, if I be lifted up from the earth, will draw all men unto me. John 12:31-32.
HOW DOES THE WORLD SEE US?
Boy does this matter!
Acts 2:44-47 ?
John 13:35 ?
Here is just a few things that would hender these 2 verses?
Certainly Leaven and the tares plays a role.
When the world look at us from the outside they see some of their own.
Pride by the work of their own hands.
Materialism.
Racism.
Ect.ect.
We also get along worse than them considering we are supposed to be led by the Spirit.
Jude 1:4
Hebrews 5:12-14.
2 Peter 2:10-15.
This is why everything we do should be what is (caused) by the Holyspirit.
Don't let pride keep you from your purpose and proper place.
"Following Jesus and shining you light on Him!!
Examine ourselves.
God bless.
interestingly you have symbolism here also
Branch : Zechariah 3:8, Isaiah 11:1, John 15, Jeremiah 33:15,
Prophetic : John 12, notice John 12:1, John 12:13,16, Hebrews 10, Colossians 2:16-17,
Hopefully helpful
Matthew 27:35, Mark 15:24, John 13:4-16, John 19:23,
Hopefully these are helpful
Mark 13, Matthew 24, Luke 21, John 12:32,
Hopefully these are helpful
Why do you ask? James 4:7,
Hopefully these are helpful
There are warnings for those who would esteem men and exalt those who the world does in Luke 16:15. The foolishness of God is greater than any of man's vain knowledge ( 1 Corinthians 1:25). We see this pattern among many of the Pharisees who believed but becuase they did not wish to lose their position in the Synagogue remained silent. (see John 12:42). We must heed warnings such as that of Jesus who stated that "he who confesses me before men I will confess before the Father in heaven in Matthew 10:32 and the denial of those who will deny Him in the very next verse. We see what the wicked counsel of the Jews led to with the crucifixion of Christ. At the very least we must heed to Revelation 3:11 which in my book is a very undervalued admonition about losing our reward and basically handing it over to another. We also must take care not to behave as the world does with gossip and chatter about every controversy.
Verse 2 and 3 discuss the characteristics of the righteous. We are reminded here of Psalm 119 where the longest chapter in all scripture repeats over and over the love of the law of God which is only possible with a regenerated heart; else it ends up being religious self-righteousness. The result of such a character is perseverance of character; and blessings for this life and the one to come.
Verse 4 and 5 discuss the wicked. It shows how they won't even stand at the judgment. That makes it clear why we shouldn't stand with them in the first place. They are compared to chaff (also seen in the N.T. and in Job 21:18; etc).
The last verse shows how God keeps His sheep; and the wicked basically are on a default mode to destruction.
Not to say it's valid but it is provocative. I agree Jesus knew he was the only way and for this reason he come into the world as mentioned
John 12:27. Now is my soul troubled; and WHAT SHALL I SAY? FATHER, SAVE ME FROM THIS HOUR: but for this cause came I unto this hour.
( By this verse I don't think he was trying to get off the hook )
John 14:6 Jesus saith unto him, I AM THE WAY, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me.
( By this verse he Know it was no other way)
Also
Matthew 20:28 Even as the Son of man came not to be ministered unto, but to minister, and to give his life a ransom for many.
That's why I believe the focus is on "IF IT BE POSSIBLE,"
let this cup pass from me: nevertheless not as I will, but as thou wilt.
If he prayed for an escape it seems he would contradict these other verses..
God bless
In order to get to the heart of the meaning of Revelation 2:5, one must consider the context. Revelation 2:11 relates something extremely vital to understanding the exact meaning. Bible preservation is a vitally important doctrine of Christianity, not of the original manuscripts themselves, but of the God-inspired original text. Not just wispy bodies of thoughts and ideas, but the very words and meaning. That, God's perfect Word, is what God arbitrarily preserves through the human generations ( Mark 13:31, Psalm 12:6,7, John 12:48, and others), which God has identified as the KJV for the past four centuries. Note carefully that John becomes an amanuensis to the glorified Jesus Christ. The words John wrote were dictated by Jesus. They are His direct Words to these churches. Contextually, we can easily see that the Lord's Words are doctrinal in nature. Salvation is not by "works," so Jesus is saying that, over time, the saints of the Ephesian church had drifted into some wayward error. This isn't hard to believe, for virtually all the original churches had waned in doctrine in various degrees by the end of the first century. Therefore, it is vital to obey 2 Timothy 2:15, "Study to show thyself approved unto God.rightly dividing the Word of truth."