Discuss John 15 Page 2

John (Part 28):

John 14:27 - Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.

It's interesting that Jesus said the peace that He gives is not the same peace that the world gives. And yet that's what we expect, tranquility, calmness, no turmoil in the physical realm. That is how we view peace. But that's the world's peace.

The word peace (EIRENE), its root word means oneness or unity. It has nothing to do with feelings. How does this peace work? Paul taught in Ephesians 2:14 that Jesus Christ is our peace, and that has the definite article with it. Jesus Christ is "the" peace of us. He is our peace. What Paul is saying is that peace is a person, not a feeling, not tranquility.

When I ask Him "Lord, I need your peace," what I am praying for spiritually is that I become one with him, that He's with me, and I'm with Him, and He's there to take me through. But it has nothing to do with feelings. Jesus said Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: Interesting in the Greek text where it says, "my peace I give unto you," it is not MY, it is MINE.

The peace that is mine, I give to you, not as the world gives, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, again TARASO, agitated, neither let it be afraid.

That is not the normal word for fear. That's the word for courage with the Alpha Privative in front of it. He says, "Let not your heart be troubled, neither be without courage."

John 15:2 - Every branch in me that beareth not fruit he taketh away: and every branch that beareth fruit, he purgeth it, that it may bring forth more fruit.

The word "purgeth" does not mean to purge the way we think of the word. It would be better translated "every branch that beareth fruit, he cleanses it." The Greek word is KATHAIREI, and it means to cleanse, not purge. Some people see the word purge and they think it means to prune. But the Greek word means cleansing.

Fruit of the Spirit

For the next few days we'll consider how spiritual growth, is gracious, gradual, and guaranteed. My interpetation is God's confirming his covenant & to be God's son and in growth. Galatians 3:17 KJV

And this I say, that the covenant, that was confirmed before of God in Christ, the law, which was four hundred and thirty years after, cannot disannul, that it should make the promise of none effect.

Though we have an important role to play, even our determination to flourish with fruit of the Spirit is evidence of God's grace.

Eveidence- Hebrews 11:1 KJV

Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.

Myself trusting God and having faith has blessed me with evidence to receive (fruit of the Spirit)

Ways you can have faith is by reading your Holy Bible, prayer, attending church, involved in ministry, volunteering.

The Holy Spirit is the one who stimulates our desire to grow in Christ. Growth is gracious. My interpetation is God's grace Matthew 3:2 KJV, Ephesians 2:8 KJV

Trust that growth will happen, and when it does, thank Jesus for the fruit produced by his appointment.

Scriptures that will help you trust God that he establish Deuteronomy 8:18 KJV, Proverbs 10:22 KJV

Producing fruit John 15:7-8 KJV

7 If ye abide in me, and my words abide in you, ye shall ask what ye will, and it shall be done unto you.8 Herein is my Father glorified, that ye bear much fruit; so shall ye be my disciples.

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Hello Benny

If I may add the following:

John 10:27-28, "My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me: And I give unto them eternal life; and they shall never perish, neither shall any man pluck them out of my hand.:

So who are those that God chooses? The answer is those who are going to hear (and accept) His calling, voice, and follow Him.

Pay attention to that "follow Him", it doesn't say just to hear but to follow Him as well. Following Him produces a fruit in their lives. In John 15:2 in the parable of the vineyard it says, "Every branch in me that beareth not fruit he taketh away: and every branch that beareth fruit, he purgeth it, that it may bring forth more fruit.". So one must stay in the vineyard, in Christ? This means to stay in His Word and do what He commands. Also to stay in His grace because otherwise one does not have the power to obey Him.

Going all the way to end is essential. An atlhete may run well during most of the race, but if he doesn't finish all that in vain.

1 Timothy 6:12, "Fight the good fight of faith, lay hold on eternal life, whereunto thou art also called, and hast professed a good profession before many witnesses.". LAY HOLD.

Colossians 2:22-23, " And you, that were sometime alienated and enemies in your mind by wicked works, yet now hath he reconciledIn the body of his flesh through death, to present you holy and unblameable and unreproveable in his sight:If ye continue in the faith grounded and settled, and be not moved away from the hope of the gospel, which ye have heard, and which was preached to every creature which is under heaven; whereof I Paul am made a minister;"

Jesus will present us holy and unblameable and unreproveable in his sight: (and this is very important) IF we continue in the faith grounded and settled, and not be moved away from the hope of the gospel. That IF...

Finishing our race in victory will give us the eternal life which we were promished.

Hi Spenser,

Nicely phrased, and it explains, "Ye have not chosen me, but I have chosen you, and ordained you, that ye should go and bring forth fruit, and that your fruit should remain: that whatsoever ye shall ask of the Father in my name, he may give it you."( John 15:16). Have a great weekend,

Matt.5:17 "The Law" (1 of 2)

"Think not that I am come to destroy the law, or the prophets: I am not come to destroy, but to fulfil."

Jesus as the light of the world fulfilled the law as the light of the Lamb fulfilling it in terms of the law of Moses. We shall see from the commentary on the law. "On these two commandments hang all the law and the prophets."(Matt.22:37-40)

These two we shall consider as the two stones Urim and Thummim that the high priest carried next to his heart. "Jesus said unto him, Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind./ This is the first and great commandment./And the second is like unto it, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself."

These stones signify Eden, the mountain of God and Zion, the stone cut not with hands. In Ez.28:13 the covering cherub covered with 10 stones. "Thou wast perfect in thy ways from the day that thou wast created, till iniquity was found in thee." The Law consequently established the Law of sin. For this reason the red dragon in the vision is given ten horns, "and behold a great red dragon, having seven heads and ten horns, and seven crowns upon his heads." The same number we see in the beast as well.(Re.12:3;13:1)

Second commandment 'love thy neighbour as thyself' was fulfilled in the death of Jesus Christ on the cross."Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends."( John 15:13). Consequently "blotting out the handwriting of ordinances that was against us, which was contrary to us, and took it out of the way, nailing it to his cross; and having spoiled principalities and powers, he made a shew of them openly, triumphing over them in it."(Col.4:14-17) The blood is the fulfillment of the emblem in the will of God, slain Lamb "And all that dwell upon the earth shall worship him, whose names are not written in the book of life of the Lamb slain from the foundation of the world./If any man have an ear, let him hear."

Re.20:12 "The Book of life" (2 of 2)

Does Omnipotent God need to remember and need a book of remembrance as stated in Malachi? The Spirit in another place says 'God remembered Noah' and does God needs to be reminded of whom he found as righteous in his generation? "For thee have I seen righteous before me in this generation."(Ge.7:1;8:1) God is setting the event in terms of the covenant and having given free will to man, God is comparing the names in the book of life with those who have denied the Son of man. His Fellowship with Man gives man the privilege to be counted in the book of life. This "book of remembrance was written before him for them that feared the Lord, and that thought upon his name./And they shall be mine, saith the Lord of hosts, in that day when I make up my jewels; and I will spare them, as a man spareth his own son that serveth him." They are his jewels and they shall have part in the light of the Lamb. "In that day" refers to the day of Regeneration, the Alpha and Omega aspect in Jesus Christ being fully validated. So Jesus warned, "for without me ye can do nothing./If a man abide not in me, he is cast forth as a branch, and is withered; and men gather them, and cast them into the fire, and they are burned." ( John 15:5-6)

"And whosoever was not found written in the book of life was cast into the lake of fire."(Re.20:15). All judgment is invested with the Son, and the throne of the Lamb refers to all those who are found righteous in his Son. "And I saw thrones, and they sat upon them, and judgment was given unto them: and I saw the souls of them that were beheaded for the witness of Jesus, and for the word of God, and which had not worshipped the beast, neither his image, neither had received his mark upon their foreheads, or in their hands; and they lived and reigned with Christ a thousand years." (20:4) For them there is no more condemnation and have the confidence in the great white throne of judgment.

Hebrews 13:15 KJV

By him therefore let us offer the sacrifice of praise to God continually, that is, the fruit of our lips giving thanks to his name.

My interpretation: textual evidence scriptures( 2 Corinthians 4:14 )To be delivered to become like God and becoming like God through sacrifice of praise and fruit of your lips giving thanksguving.

Interpretation- The act of interpreting,explanation of unintelligible words in language that is intelligible.

The new testament( New Convenant) was written in Greek

How to keep faith and have the victory over compassion not to come up short to become like God Philippians 4:13 KJV 1 Corinthians 1:23 KJV

John 15:26 KJV But when the Comforter is come, whom I will send unto you from the Father, even the Spirit of truth, which proceedeth from the Father, he shall testify of me:

That the testimony of Jesus Christ will bless you in all ways in life to have what you want.- 2 Corinthians 5:14 KJV.

My interpetation and spoken by Reginald Taylor Jr is plain and evident"(token " Not to be in state of hunger, depression, poverty" becoming wealthy and rich which is the new Convenant.- Psalm 112:3 KJV Proverbs 23:7 KJV

The testimony of Jesus Christ has blessed me - Psalm 112:3 KJV believing in the Gospel of Jesus Christ offering the sacrifice of praise to God continually, that is, the fruit of our lips giving thanks to his name. ( 1 Peter 2:9, Hebrews 7:26, Joshua 1:8)

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Continued

1 John 5:7: For there are three that bear record in heaven, the Father, the Word, and the Holy Ghost, and these three are one.

John 14:26: But the Comforter, the Holy Ghost, whom the Father will send in my name, shall teach you all things and bring all things to your remembrance, whatsoever I have said unto you.

John 1:14: And the Word was made flesh and dwelt among us (and we beheld his glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father), full of grace and truth.

Matthew 28:18- 20: And Jesus came and spake unto them, saying, All power is given unto me in heaven and on earth. (Read More)

John 15:26 But when the Comforter comes, whom I will send unto you from the Father, even the Spirit of Truth, which proceeds from the Father, he shall testify of me:

1 Corinthians 8:6: But to us there is one God, the Father, of whom are all things, and we in him; and one Lord Jesus Christ, by whom are all things, and we by him.

John 14:10: Believest thou not that I am in the Father, and the Father in me? The words that I speak unto you, I speak not of myself; but the Father that dwells in me, he doeth the works.

Genesis 1:26: And God said, Let us make man in our image, after our likeness, and let them have dominion over the fish of the sea, and over the fowl of the air, and the cattle, and all the earth, and over every creeping thing that creeps upon the earth.

Romans 8:26- 27: Likewise, the Spirit also helps our infirmities, for we know not what we should pray for as we ought, but the Spirit makes intercession for us with groanings that cannot be uttered. (Read More...)

Ephesians 4:6: One God and Father of all, who is above all, through all, and in you all.

1 Peter 1:2: Elect according to the foreknowledge of God the Father, through sanctification of the Spirit, unto obedience and sprinkling of the blood of Jesus Christ: Grace unto you, and peace, be multiplied.

Isaiah 48:16: Come ye near unto me, hear ye this; I have not spoken in secret from the begin

Ps.81:15 "Haters of me"

"The haters of the Lord should have submitted themselves unto him: but their time should have endured for ever."

Psalmist Asaph labels Israel as "haters of the Lord." Jesus was aware of it. "They that hate me without a cause are more than the hairs of mine head: they that would destroy me, being mine enemies wrongfully, are mighty." This was foreknown and Jesus would quote this to forewarn his disciple. "(Ps.69:4; John 15:18-27;Ep.6:12). "He that hateth me hateth my Father also." Such hatred persisting in this world tells what St Paul warned as to what we are up against. Spiritual wickedness in high places is nothing personal but serving Satan as a proxy. How often we come across the apologists for Israel and bending backwards to justify the slaughter of the innocents in Gaza. Israel has done much worse than Herod in evil. It is all because these simple ignoramuses do not study the Word to their profit. Literal passages are enough for them. There was a cult group formerly known as Ceylon Pentecostal Mission. Citing Ezekiel they were all for Israel reinstating animal sacrifices. At surface they were to assert God cannot go wrong. Where Israel failed God will lead them to prove His ways are the best. Was it their reverence for unseen God or their hatred of the perfect sacrifice of the Son? Their will worship ,-touch not, taste not and see not was more enforced than abiding with Christ. This is how a dead fly like Israel has caused the pot of imposter churches stink.

"Oh that my people had hearkened unto me, and Israel had walked in my ways!/I should soon have subdued their enemies, and turned my hand against their adversaries. "(Ps.81:13-14)

The Psalmist applies the time to the nation and not forever. "but their time should have endured for ever."

The Word of GOD is from everlasting to everlasting, the Word is GOD, GOD Himself, self-executing, understand?

My Lord JESUS, Christ JESUS, make it very clear, saying: John 15:

Every branch in me that beareth not fruit He - the Father - taketh away: and every branch that beareth fruit, He purgeth it, that it may bring forth more fruit. As the branch cannot bear fruit of itself, except it abide in the vine; no more can ye, except ye abide in me.

If a man abide not in me, he is cast forth as a branch, and is withered; and men gather them, and cast them into the fire, and they are burned. If ye abide in me, and my words abide in you, ye shall ask what ye will, and it shall be done unto you.

1 John 4:4 "He that is in you"

Fulness of Christ is like a seed in itself so 'thy word is truth' and indweiing Spirit helps you sprout and put out shoots leaves and fruits. Our abundance is not of ourselves but of his fulness. " I am the vine, ye are the branches: He that abideth in me, and I in him, the same bringeth forth much fruit: for without me ye can do nothing."( John 15:5). This is the tree of righteousness planted by the waters. (Ps.1:3) The tree is an emblem of heaven earth and lower parts becoming crystallised so we are bound to time and place yet we are on the right side of the river and of the tree of life.(Re.22:1)

We are also as Christ promised his apostles., "And he saith unto them, Follow me, and I will make you fishers of men." (Matt.4:19) We are like fishers in the vision of Ezekiel, " And it shall come to pass, that the fishers shall stand upon it from Engedi even unto Eneglaim; they shall be a place to spread forth nets; their fish shall be according to their kinds, as the fish of the great sea, exceeding many. "(Ez.47:10)

Instead what do we find prayer request a week ago in this forum but conspiracy theories insinuating 'this senile guy sniffing kids' and the prayer for Trump. For instance the shooter is not a lone wolf as evident in this, "I have been praying. And yes, it seems that there may be more to this than just the 20 year old shooter." It is what spirit of the times have made the simple spread lies under 'pious' statement. True believers ought to compare spiritual with spiritual and aid and abet the unrighteous. This strong delusion is from the spirit of the times.

Re.11:1-4 "Two witnesses" (1 of 2)

In order to understand them the Spirit has laid down two numbers one of which are to be seen from the two groups from the vision of the Woman clothed with the Sun. God has prepared a place for the woman "they should feed her there a thousand two hundred and threescore days."(Re.12:6). It is to which Jesus referred and also lays down the only rule to be found there. "No man cometh unto the Father, but by me."( John 14:6). So the place prepared of God holds a tag 1260. This is set in days as the everlasting covenant is marked by day. Both are consistent with the day that God has appointed for his Son by a decree.(Ps.2:7)

Another tag is set in months. "for it is given unto the Gentiles: and the holy city shall they tread under foot forty and two months." Significance of month is also set by God. "This month shall be unto you the beginning of months: it shall be the first month of the year to you."(Ex.12:2). We come across this number in the life of Elisha who was jeered at for his baldness. Why would some children jeer him without a cause? The reason is simple. He is set in the God directive as a double for Jesus Christ. It is the holy angel who stands as witness before God in heaven. Jesus also quotes what the Psalmist had written beforehand."But this cometh to pass, that the word might be fulfilled that is written in their law, They hated me without a cause. "( John 15:25;Ps.69:4)

2 Ki.2:23-24. Elisha was on the way to Bethel the house of God and those children of Belial are tagged as 42. They represented sons of perdition and we read that the authority of the beast is tagged by 42. ("and power was given unto him to continue forty and two months."-Re.13:5) The great dragon represents those who hated man-child. It is no brainer to think of the nation of Israel hated Jesus for the reason he came from God. "And there came forth two she bears out of the wood, and tare forty and two children of them."(v.24)

Hi

John 15:2

Every branch in me that beareth not fruit he taketh away: and every branch that beareth fruit, he purgeth it, that it may bring forth more fruit.

Why doesn't a branch in Christ bear a fruit? It is a branch, isn't it? So if it a natural thing to have fruit what makes it to not make one?

John 15:7

If ye abide in me, and my words abide in you, ye shall ask what ye will, and it shall be done unto you.

John 15:10

If ye keep my commandments, ye shall abide in my love; even as I have kept my Father's commandments, and abide in his love.

So for one to abide in Christ, His words must abide in them, and in simple words they must keep His commandments. This is not natural, it is a disicion we make and succeed through God's/Jesus' grace

Hi Brother Chris and Giannis.

I have heard and studied both views on John 3:5 with the water mentioned being either the word of God or the physical birth.

Your in good company either way it goes.

I lean over to the water mentioned in John 3:5 is the word of God because of the verses you both sited

1 Peter 1:23-25.

Ephesians 5:26.

However, I don't see how it relates to water baptism.

I don't believe water baptism represents a washing.

I believe it testifies in one's belief in the death of Christ and the resurrection.

I believe the washing by the word has to be taken place prior to water baptism.

John 15:3.

God bless.

What is persecution?

Hebrews 11:37

They were put to death by stoning; they were sawed in two; they were killed by the sword. They went about in sheepskins and goatskins, destitute, persecuted and mistreated-

Other parts of this passage mention torture and wandering as nomads. It is fairly clear that when people are put to severe physical suffering and or death directly because of their profession of faith that persecution is occurring. When we look to the individuals who are exiled or made homeless because of either being directly evicted or put in a position of poverty because of their faith (even related to a caste system so encompassing anyone not in the elite status) it can be less clear. Some of this seems like "collateral damage"; and if we look at more subtle things such as verbal abuse and harassment on the job it may be even less clear. No doubt having a work ethic to work "heartily unto the Lord" (Coossians 3:23); to work as unto the Lord and to be above reproach thus not agreeing to use illegal means to promote the econonic status also can have fallout. Of course we must be diligent not to be robbing from our employer's time in having conversations that cause us to deviate from the work at hand; such much normally be reserved for break or after work hours; although there are times when in my own situation I have had to emphasize that I'd better clock out when being alone with one individual on my past job discussing theology. A lot; of course would depend on how complex the task is; there have been one or two times I can think of specifically when working in a warehouse; for instance when the whole production line jammed and there was literally nothing else to do at that time but usually there is some mundane task we can do to fill in for these moments.

Jesus promised that all who were Godly in Christ Jesus would be persecuted ( 2 Tim. 3:12; John 15:20). The origin and SOURCE of this situation is nearly always Satan's minions.

More on assurance of salvation or "eternal security"

As stated before space ran out in the last post; Romans 8:16 shows the communication between our spirit and His Spirit who resides within all true believers ( John 14:23; see also Eph. 3:17). For Him to RESIDE in our souls we must be born again.

And being children of God we also are made aware of opportunities which God gives us (i.e. "good works") that will be rewarded in heaven someday that are imperishable ( 1 Cor. 9:25; Matt. 6:19-21). Keep in mind the end of that passage stating that wherever your treasure is; your heart is also (loosely translated).

Again; as I have stated a LOT on this site; God's method is to chastise all those He loves (let the reader find the scriptures). There is no desire for this in the flesh; as it is stated in Hebrews 12:11 to be disciplined in this way. We learn to recognize and appreciate this "pruning" effort ( John 15:2); for without it we would be in danger of producing no fruit and in the end being burned (in everlasting punishment). Our confidence is that in the end we are made into a glorious image; and reflect perfectly His radiance as He truly IS our life. Our reward; therefore comes from Him and in reality is HIS reward. He will; of course have His saints rule and reign with Him as part of our inheritance.

Another point to be made is an effectual witness has to be bold in their testimony and bring the fear of the Lord as well as demonstrate His love. It is therefore as Philippians 1:28 states a "token of their perdition" that we remain steadfast in the confidence of all that He has promised us. Our coming exaltation to rule and reign with Christ isn't brought forth by arrogance on our part; but nonetheless the unnerving thing to those who hear our witness is that we are; indeed already seated in heavenly places. ( Eph. 2:6). Christ also overcame and is seated at the right hand of the Father. God will be magnified whether hell or heaven is our end.

Calvinism is from John 15:16 "ye have not chosen me, but I have chosen you, and ordained you, that ye should go and bring forth fruit, and that your fruit should remain: that whatsoever ye shall ask of the Father in my name, he may give it to you."

If you do not believe that God chose you, then that is fine. Just do not call a Liar!

Hi.

There's many reasons why we can feel a void in the Spirit moving in our lives.

Sometimes it's chastening or just being out of the will of God.

Other times it could be a wavering of our faith.

And then it can be pruning for Spiritual growth.

Sometimes God's presence is not clear or obvious to the human eye.

That's one reason why we are called to "live by faith, not by sight.

2 Corinthians 5:7.

The Holyspirit causes us to trust in God's promises such as Hebrews 13:5-6.

"Let your conversation be without covetousness; and be content with such things as ye have: for he hath said, I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee.

So that we may boldly say, The Lord is my helper, and I will not fear what man shall do unto me".

King David had to deal with Chastening and Correction in his reign as King.

But David knew God and trusted God and believed in his promises and mercy.

You see it evident in his Psalms 71:1-24 prayer.

Especially verses "20-21.Thou, which hast shewed me great and sore troubles, shalt quicken me again, and shalt bring me up again from the depths of the earth.

Thou shalt increase my greatness, and comfort me on every side.

We are to bare fruit. We are expected to.

John 15:7-8.

If ye abide in me, and my words abide in you, ye shall ask what ye will, and it shall be done unto you.

Herein is my Father glorified, that ye bear much fruit; so shall ye be my disciples.

There's things that hinder us.

"Wherefore seeing we also are compassed about with so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which doth so easily beset us, and let us run with patience the race that is set before us,

Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith; who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God.

For consider him that endured such contradiction of sinners against himself, lest ye be wearied and faint in your minds.

Hebrews. 12:1-3..

GB

Prosperity teachers: Mind games.

HEALTH

Having discussed briefly the desires of the flesh for money that convince people (supposedly) that they too can have mountains of cash or at least a foothill or two if they sow generously to the megachurch we turn our attention to the other major appeal; that is of healings. As long as botox and plastic surgery keep the preacher (or "Apostle" or "prophet") from looking as crooked as their heart is they can hold some leverage; to those foolish enough to believe them to the concept that somehow they have locked into some sort of "healing ministry" that they can attach to their official title. It reminds me of the Jethro Tull song "Wind up" where he says "he's not the kind you have to wind up on Sundays" as one of his lines describing God. The same could be said for his song "My God" where the hypocricy of those who use a "plastic crucifix" is mocked. Sometimes we can find more wisdom with secular music than so called "Christian."

At any "road" as they say in England; if they can't sell you the concept of healing they will also often promote products that are; of course overpriced that are organic or something to that effect to keep your appearance younger. It appears almost always the evidence of so called healings have no factual backup; such as names; places or verifiable witnesses. Emotional healings of course aren't as easily verified and spiritual change is more than hype and drama. I am not a "cessationist" in principle; but would venture to say that any true miracle isn't something which should be made a spectacle; just as any true conversion has lasting power as based on John 15:5 about remaining in Him. If there is a true miracle of God it certainly isn't to promote a particular ministry but to give glory to God. It also; no doubt will bring the same sort of persecution that happened during the time of Christ. The same could be said about tongues; another thing these churches tend to emphasize.

John 15:1-3 Signs-Trees (2 of 2)

Trees of righteousness as sign is validated by the tree of life. The burning bush that did not consume itself overarches into eternity where we read of the tree of life. "In the midst of the street of it, and on either side of the river, was there the tree of life, which bare twelve manner of fruits, and yielded her fruit every month: and the leaves of the tree were for the healing of the nations."(Re.22:1-2). On either side of the river establishes the earth where nations require healing while on the opposite side we have new earth and new heaven as one. Twelve manner of fruits from the same tree of life is the Lord's doing."This is the Lord's doing; it is marvellous in our eyes." Christ has become the source of healing for nations that rejected him.(Ps.118:19-23). For the nations months are counted while in the holy city of God 'forever' is being leaves that do not wither. In the vision of Ezekiel we have the view from the other side. "And by the river upon the bank thereof, on this side and on that side, shall grow all trees for meat, whose leaf shall not fade, neither shall the fruit thereof be consumed: it shall bring forth new fruit according to his months, because their waters they issued out of the sanctuary: and the fruit thereof shall be for meat, and the leaf thereof for medicine."(Ez.47:12)

God makes a difference between what is holy and what is not. Le.10:10. The nation of Israel failed to honor God. So the tree of life is a sign to them. Yet do we not hear the imposter church teach unity of the Spirit. "And what concord hath Christ with Belial? or what part hath he that believeth with an infidel? Total sanctification means a life of separation. "Wherefore come out from among them, and be ye separate, saith the Lord, and touch not the unclean thing; and I will receive you,:(2 Co.6:15-18)

John 15:1-2 "Signs: trees" (1 of 2)

"I am the true vine, and my Father is the husbandman./ Every branch in me that beareth not fruit he taketh away."

Tree as a sign was given to Moses to which we shall come anon. Jesus as the true vine and 'my Father' who purges is the one who has broken off or grafted new to the vine. It is thus we need approach St Paul. Before discussing this purging what is the role of the sign?

Validity of any sign is in terms of the everlasting covenant. Trees no less. In the matter of light and waters God separated them first. Light was different from darkness. Waters above was similarly different waters which symbolised nations. Wicked were like the troubled sea while "Forasmuch as this people refuseth the waters of Shiloah that go softly, and rejoice in Rezin and Remaliah's son" we can sense the same separation marks Israel and Jesus Christ. (Is.8:6). This covenant thus stamps waters below, quality of which is judged by God. God gathers together sea and the dry land is called the earth. The provision for trees as mentioned in the covenant has this characteristic. "Let the earth bring forth" is the divine command.(Ge.1:11). The next verse is how the Son fulfills it,"And the tree yielding fruit, whose seed was in itself, after his kind: and God saw that it was good." This is under the authority of the Son. The command number in third day establishes it.

So Jesus Christ is the true Vine.

"The Song of my Beloved is all about the vineyard. (Is.5:1-4) "Wherefore, when I looked that it should bring forth grapes, brought it forth wild grapes?"

Ro.11:17-20This shall throw light in this passage the relationship of the tree in relation to the root."Boast not against the branches. But if thou boast, thou bearest not the root, but the root thee." They were broken off for their disbelief. Their fruits or lack of it proved the point. "Let no fruit grow on thee henceforward for ever."("forever"- Matt.21:19) So the fig tree that withered away is a sign.

"Remember the word that I said unto you, The servant is not greater than his lord. If they have persecuted me, they will also persecute you; if they have kept my saying, they will keep yours also."

John 15:20 (KJV)

Our Lord JESUS said: John 15:1-2

1 I am the true vine, and my Father is the husbandman.

2 Every branch in me that beareth not fruit He -the Father- taketh away: and every branch that beareth fruit, He purgeth it, that it may bring forth more fruit.

2Peter 3:7- But the heavens(spiritual environment of the OT & NT) and the earth(Israel), which are now, by the same Word are kept in store, reserved unto FIRE against the Day of Judgment (the Lord's Day, the current seventh and last Day, or seventh and last millennium in which we are living) and perdition of ungodly men.

Perfect, you are right. The Holy Spirit is a Person, the Paraclete, the Comfort - John 15:26 and John 16:12-15 - not a force (a ghost) or power from God. JESUS revealed (through His angel, and John testified) that the person of the Holy Spirit is the God of the earth- Revelation 11:4 combined with Zechariah 4:11-14.

The two olive trees(source of oil -the OT and NT, two olive branches which through the two golden pipes empty the golden oil out of THEMSELVES- Zechariah 4:11-14) , and the two candlesticks(two Churches: the Gentile Church and the Jewish Church- Hebrews 12:22-24) are standing before the God of the earth-the person of the Holy Spirit.

1John 5:7 - There are three that bear record (testify) in heaven(heaven? Ephesians 1:3-8), the Father(GOD Father), the Word(the Word made flesh-JESUS), and the Holy Spirit (who is a Person, not a ghost as is written in English language due to translators' carelessness): and these three are One. (Great mystery. Would not he be the younger brother of JESUS- Luke 15:30-32 combined with prophecy of Isaiah 7:15-16. Take a look. Great mystery.)

A conversation based on predestination and election and determining if "we're special".

Today; in the midst of competing a discussion on Psalm 2; somehow I made a fleeting statement on how I believed in Predestination (maybe related to those who perish in Revelation who take the mark of the Beast). In any event; along with a disagreement I had with one lady who is the most vocal at this Bible Study and who is a diehard Catholic she stated that we shouldn't consider ourselves "special" related to what she considered a misguided opinion that indeed I was called and chosen (her issue was that Christ died for everyone).

Of course; even a diehard Calvanist will be the first to tell you that we aren't picked because we have any value-it is simply God's grace. My point is now that we are saved and know it; how do we define this blessing now; and in the future when He exalts us in heaven? Being His adopted children now certainly is "special"; even though as Paul said he was treated as the scum of the world ( 1 Cor. 4:13). Jesus; of course whose visage was marred more than any man for our sake on the way to the cross ( Isaiah 52:14) was uniquely loved by the Father and has a singular exaltation as Creator above all of creation as He should.

As His children we are called to be different from the world and part of His Body (see John 17:15-21). We are to be "salt and light" ( Matthew 5:13-16) and His sheep hear His voice ( John 10:27-28). What draws all men to Himself ( John 12:32) started with His Resurrection; but I would argue continues with the Spirit of God convicting men that lives within His church. To not have the power of sin and the fear of damnation as a reality is something which no one apart from His children can experience.

We should stand out; not as arrogant but as truly blessed; which comes of course from our character as well as our reverence for His Word and instructions of living; prayer and sanctification. John 15:18 shows the world hates us.

Hi Ecalarese.

As promised I would like to continue our discussion on unequally yoked with unbelievers and we "the church" being separated from the world.

We've touched on 2 Corinthians 6:14-15

When we read further down in this chapter we come to verses 17 and 18 it reads "Wherefore come out from among them, and be ye separate, saith the Lord, and touch not the unclean thing; and I will receive you,

And will be a Father unto you, and ye shall be my sons and daughters, saith the Lord Almighty.

Paul is telling us to separate ourselves from the world, but to some degree Paul is only telling us what the Spirit of God has already done.

We are Unequally yoked with unbelievers in this world where lifestyles and morrows clash! Darkness and light cannot coexist.

A believer baptized with Christ spirit has a new nature that combats the old nature.

Not just outward sin but we now think different.

Listen to Paul again talking to the Corinthians in 1 Corinthians 2:14-16.

"But the natural man receiveth not the things of the Spirit of God: for they are foolishness unto him: neither can he know them, because they are spiritually discerned.

But he that is spiritual judgeth all things, yet he himself is judged of no man.

For who hath known the mind of the Lord, that he may instruct him? But we have the mind of Christ.

Also, John 15:18-21.

Notice verse 21? "But all these things will they do unto you for my name's sake, BECAUSE THEY KNOW NOT HIM THAT SENT ME.

When the Holyspirit causes us to follow Christ and His teachings we're at odds with the world.

We have "separate" fathers.

God and Satan!

Satan has his ministers also. Look at Paul in his day. 2 Corinthians 11:13-15

Satan appeals to the flesh and worldly wisdom.

One thing they can't do is bare fruit! Matthew 7:15-18.

They despise truth and hate the Brothern.

See 1 John 3:10-15.

Perhaps more later on a separate thread.

God bless you.

Bryanna.

An article on fruit barring.

Part 1.

In the natural world, fruit is the result of a healthy plant producing what it was designed to produce ( Genesis 1:11-12). In the Bible, the word fruit is often used to describe a person's outward actions that result from the condition of the heart.

Good fruit is that which is produced by the Holy Spirit. Galatians 5:22-23 gives us a starting place: the fruit of His Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. The more we allow the Holy Spirit free rein in our lives, the more this fruit is evident ( Galatians 5:16, 25). Jesus told His followers, "I chose you and appointed you so that you might go and bear fruit-fruit that will last" ( John 15:16). Righteous fruit has eternal benefit.

Jesus told us clearly what we must do to bear good fruit. He said, "Abide in Me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit of itself unless it abides in the vine, so neither can you unless you abide in Me. I am the vine, you are the branches; he who abides in Me and I in him, he bears much fruit, for apart from Me you can do nothing" ( John 15:4-5). A branch must stay firmly attached to the trunk to stay alive. As disciples of Christ, we must stay firmly connected to Him to remain spiritually productive. A branch draws strength, nourishment, protection, and energy from the vine. If it is broken off, it quickly dies and becomes unfruitful. When we neglect our spiritual life, ignore the Word of God, skimp on prayer, and withhold areas of our lives from the scrutiny of the Holy Spirit, we are like a branch broken off the vine. Our lives become fruitless. We need daily surrender, daily communication, and daily-sometimes hourly-repentance and connection with the Holy Spirit in order to "walk in the Spirit and not fulfill the lusts of the flesh" ( Galatians 5:16).

See Part 2.

Fruit barring.

It is very important to know who comes first: Michael or JESUS?

Daniel 12:2

2 And many of them that sleep in the dust of the earth shall awake, some to everlasting life, and some to shame and everlasting contempt.

Paul prophesied: 1Tess.4:15-17

15 We say unto you by the Word of the Lord,that we which are alive and remain unto the coming of the Lord shall not prevent them which are asleep.

16 For the Lord Himself shall descend from heaven(from the 3rd heaven,we the believers are still in the 2nd heaven-Eph.1:3-8 combined with Phil.3:20-21)with a shout,with the voice of the archangel,and with the trump of GOD:and the dead in Christ shall rise first:

17 Then we which are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds( Isaiah 60:8, and 1Corinthians 15:51 combined with Phi.3:20-21 and Re.5:8-14), to meet the Lord in the air(in the 3rd heavenly environment-3rd heaven-far above the second heaven- Luke 20:35-36 combined with Mat.25:6): and so shall we ever be with the Lord. (Where?-Re.11:15-18 and 5:10, and Mat.5:5).

Daniel 12:3

3 And they that be wise shall shine as the brightness of the firmament; and they that turn many to righteousness as the stars for ever and ever. (The stars were made by our GOD since the beginning- Genesis 1:16-made with own light given by GOD for them to shine in heaven(Eph.1:3-8), but the Greater Light is JESUS, and the Lesser Light is the person of the Holy Spirit- John 15:26 and 16:12-15. Take a look).

Mark 9:50 "Life"

"Salt is good: but if the salt have lost his saltness, wherewith will ye season it? Have salt in yourselves, and have peace one with another."

Salt is compared to life which could be lived to no purpose or to life abundant. The word of God warned Lot and his family to go forward but Mrs Lot would rather live in the past. "Remember Lot's wife," serves as a warning to all those who holds no vision as Abraham has had. "For he looked for a city which hath foundations, whose builder and maker is God." He.11:10. So living in tents as pilgrims and sojourners his vision ever led him forth so much so heaven in the Parable of Jesus is compared to Abraham's bosom.

In vv28-50 the Spirit mentions the house as separate from the world. "And when he was come into the house, his disciples asked him privately, Why could not we cast him out?" As with parables the mysteries were not for those who had no appreciation for the saltiness of their soul. Killing time in mindless pursuits is what they call as having good time. From the edge of their lost contents they may sent postcards telling,'wish you were here!'. In the house the disciples would press their masters for answers so they did have a sound base upon which they could build up, "Have salt in yourselves, and have peace one with another."

vv.33-34 There was oneupmanship among them. How often did they forget that they could nothing without their master? The house is a synonym for abiding life as in the Parable of the 'I am the true vine.' ( John 15:3) They were yet to understand the principle of Association. Charity of giving a glass of water is in the connection between the one in need and God in heaven. "Whosoever shall receive one of such children in my name, receiveth me: and whosoever shall receive me, receiveth not me, but him that sent me." False shepherds wax eloquent over 1 Co.13 and let not their Jesus talk fool anyone. Without abiding life in Christ it is for their own glory.

Hey Sonofman1973,

There is no need to apologize you have not stirred up anything, I agree with you on 2 Peter 1:20-21 Scripture, the word of God is not the author's or prophet's interpretation or understanding of what God relayed to them through the Holy Spirit. Every word in Scripture is from God, not man, and can be cherished and trusted.

My understanding of a discussion is two or more people in respect and love share their understanding of a subject. If someone asks a question, they are asking for the understanding of the subject of someone else to reach a decision or to exchange understandings asked of the person.

Truth is only given to us through the Spirit of Truth that Jesus sends to us from the Father, which proceedeth from the Father, John 15:26. You may see the earth was destroyed by the sin of Satan between Gen. 1:1 and 1:2, my understanding that produces two beginnings of the earth and the universe as Scripture tells us in Genesis 1. God has no beginning, the angels had a beginning, and the angels saw and shouted for joy at the beginning of this earth and universe Job 38. We may not agree on some points but that is ok.

God bless you, brother, be well.

RLW