Discuss John 8 Page 5

Jema,

Pt. 2

In John 8:56, Jesus said that Abraham rejoiced to see my (Jesus') day. Abraham knew that the promise God made to him concerning his seed was a prophecy of Jesus, the Seed, promised. Abraham knew that Isaac was a fulfillment of the promise, but also knew that Isaac was foreshadowing Jesus, the Messiah, the true Israel of God because the gospel was preached to Abraham in advance (I'll get you the Scripture citation later).

In Rom. 9:1-6 Paul speaks of his desire for his ethnic people to be saved because of the heritage they received: the covenants, the law, service to God, the promises, and from whom, concerning the fleshy lineage, Christ came (vs.4-5). In vs 6-8 speaks that not all who are of (ethnic) Israel are of Israel (Christ), neither because they are sons of Abraham in the flesh, are they children (of God), but the children of the promise (of Christ) are counted as seed.

Verses 22-27 speaks of God preparing before creation the vessels of His mercy created for Hiis glory and to receive glory. Then Paul says: Even us, not the Jews only but also gentiles citing Hosea 2:23 that God will call those people who are not my people my people and her beloved , which was not beloved (meaning those who are in Christ-the Church) who are now God's people, the children of the living God. That's us!

Verse 27 speaks of Israel as being as many as the sands of the sea, yet only a remnant of ethnic Israel will be saved. And this remnant are those who believe in Jesus. Verse 30-32 speaks of the gentiles who followed not after righteousness from keeping the law have attained righteousness by faith. And Israel, who tried to attain righteousness by keeping the law did not attain righteousness through the law, did not, because they sought righteousness in law-keeping and not in Christ by faith.

Chapter 10 begins with Paul expressing his heartfelt desire and prayer is for Israel to be saved. ....cont.

Continuing thoughts on salvation assurance in light of the plan of redemption for the whole world

My last segment showed how Christ will confess us before the Father; Luke 12:8 further indicates that He will confess us before the angels in heaven. This; of course depends on if we are sheep or goats; wheat or tares. It could be argued the first example is at least focused on the Tribulation and reactions toward the Jews who will be persecuted worldwide at that time ( Matt. 25:36). In the scriptures on wheat and tares things are clearly at first glance identical with both such individuals. This would be focused on those who fall away as well as being of Satan all along; or false converts rather than necessarily the unbelieving world at large who may have no belief in God at all or follow some other faith rather than Christianity.

This key is vital; for once someone has been given enough knowledge they are held to a higher standard. Again; though for now and these scriptures it shows those who started off that way and continue to heap up a reward of evil for themselves until they are cut off (see Psalm 91:8). The harvest is of course known as to the result ahead of time by Christ. We should all agree whatever a final destination is it is known by God and He is a God of all truth and justice as well as righteousness.

Being that apart from Divine Grace we cannot save ourselves or know how to follow the truth; ( Eph. 2:8) we must recognize that even if we have committed no obvious sin for a long time we are in the end no better off than others; we are worse in a Pharisaical sense proud of our own righteousness thinking we can earn our way or find our own way to heaven. It also leaves us vulnerable to Satan who appears as an angel of light ( 2 Cor. 11:14-15). Often missing in the subject of sin is the Father of lies who is behind mens thoughts of evil bringing out the worst in them. ( John 8:44). I will peer into that subject in my next writing.

Assurance of salvation series: Part 1-Just what is salvation?

Most of us are familiar with the verse in Romans 10:9-10 where we are told to confess with our mouth and believe in our hearts that Christ is Lord. I thought that I would focus on the second part since "confessional regeneration" as some Calvanists like to spin it today seems to be a rampant event. First; of course we have to assume that we are confessing the true Christ and not a New Age One; that is from a spirit that confesses that Christ indeed came in the flesh as opposed to the verse 1 John 4:3 that would cover any other errant one such as that He was just a great teacher; a Prophet or something to that affect. Truly He was the "I AM" ( John 8:56-59). That truth; as I have pointed out in previous posts proved that Peter knew with Divine Revelation such information ( Matt. 16:17). That gives us some understanding that with Judas Iscariot that likely wasn't revealed although it in not stated.

As stated earlier as well; the Calvanist likes to use the term "total depravity" describing the human soul state of unregenerate man. It is hard to argue with such logic when we see verses such as Psalm 58:3; and Isaiah 53:6; not to mention the progression toward the madness in Revelation 19; also reflected in Psalm 2.

I tend to think of our calloused hearts much like going to the dentist having our teeth cleaned. Most of us miss certain areas flossing; the plaque buildup requires major scraping; reflossing; and deep treatments with flouride while we marvel at the disgusting smelly crap that has built up in between our teeth despite what we considered adequate care. Maybe it is only me.

Or; we could look at C.S. Lewis quoting Edmond in the Narnia Series (not sure which one) where Christ was compared to a lion.

The character expected a mild peeling away of the dead skin; instead it penetrated like heart surgery. Such imagery also was given to Aslan as to how deep he had to be wounded for us.

Spiritual Truth - Part 1

The Word of God teaches us in 1 Cor. 2:14 that 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.

This is why those communicating their messages in this 'forum' so often use the word 'discerning' while the 'Word of God' is not of any private interpretation ( 2 Peter 1:20). This is why it also teaches; that anyone that is spiritual judgeth all things, yet he himself is judged of no man ( 1 Cor. 2:15).

Please remember, the words from the 'Word of God' are according to the 'Spirit of Truth' ( John 14:17). Furthermore, the Spirit of truth cannot be received by this world ( John 14:17) as this whole world has been deceived ( Rev. 12:9).

Please study the 'Word of God' and learn of the difference between the 'natural' and the 'spiritual' body ( 1 Cor. 15:44) and how and by whom this whole world has been deceived ( Rev. 12:9).

Seek, and ye shall find ( Matthew 7:7).

It is God's will for all men to be saved, and to come unto the knowledge of the truth ( 1 Timothy 2:4), but not everyone that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven ( Matthew 7:21).

Many will say unto me that day, Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in thy name? And in thy name have cast out devils? And in thy name done many wonderful works? ( Matthew 7:22).

And then will I profess unto them I never knew you: depart from me, ye that work iniquity ( Matthew 7:23). If you would like to know who by nature your Father is, may we suggest you read John 8::43-45.

Hello Donna. There are probably a few reasons why this occurred. In John 18:28, we read that "THEY led Jesus from Caiaphas unto the hall of judgement...". And when Pilate told THEM to "judge him (Jesus) according to their law", we can understand that the Sanhedrin (the supreme council & tribunal of the Jews) were involved in laying the charge against Jesus. Also, at that time under Roman rule & law, the hearing of accusations & pronouncing judgement had to be conducted only by the Roman procurator or his deputies & not by the people. As well, with those of Jewry that might have shown sympathy towards Jesus (as One doing nothing worthy of such treatment & death), it was in the Sanhedrin's interest to refer the matter of execution to Rome (in other words, 'let's pass the buck'), to avoid becoming unpopular & losing respect & face with their people.

So, why not in the case of Stephen ( Acts 7:54-60), or the woman taken in adultery ( John 8:3-5), though Jesus skilfully diverted their attention from the woman to themselves? In these passages, we see it was the Jewish religious leaders (the Scribes & Pharisees) & the mob they incited being urged to take the law into their own hands. They believed they were fulfilling the Law, which prescribed that adultery & blasphemy were sins worthy of death ( Leviticus 20:10; Leviticus 24:16). These were not the Sanhedrin (the official Jewish council who would pronounce judgement after due legal processes), though the Council comprised many of these men; they were the religious leaders, acting on their own, filled with religious fury, inciting the mob, determined to take matters into their own hands, believing that they were fulfilling the Law & doing God service.

This is how I understand the difference which you have picked up on: just a few thoughts for your consideration.

@Mishael

Advocate 1 John 2:1

Shephard & Bishop of souls I Peter 2:25

Man of sorrows Isa 53.3

Judge Acts 10:42

Faithful and True Witness Rev 3:14

Head of the Church Eph 5:23

Rock 1 Corth 10:4

High Priest Heb 6:20

Master Matt 8:19

Living Water John 4:10

Rose of Sharon Song of Solomon 2:1

Alpha and Omega Rev 22:13

Lamb of God John 1:29 Messiah Daniel 9:25

Mediator I Tim 2:5

Teacher John 3:2

Author and Finisher of our Faith Heb 12:2

Image of the invisible God Col 1:15

Everlasting Father Isa 9:6

The Word John 1:1

Holy One Mark 1:24

Light of the world John 8:12

Lion of the tribe of Judah Rev 5: 5

LORD OF LORDS I Tim 6:15

The Beloved Eph 1:6

Carpenter Mark 6:3 The Almighty Rev 21:

Shiloh Gen 49:10

The Way, the Truth and The Life John 14:16

Bright and Morning Star Rev 22:16

Good Shepherd John 10:11

Son of Man Matt 20:28

Only Begotten Son John 3:16

King Of Kings 1 Tim 6:15

Prince of Peace Isa 9:6

Bridegroom Matt 9:15

Dayspring Luke 1:78

Saviour of the world Eph 5:23

Immanuel Luke 1:78 & Matt 1:23

Wonderful Counselor Isa 9:6

I AM John 8:58

The Door John 10:9

The True Vine John 15:1

King of the Jews Mark 15:26

Prophet Matt 21:11

Redeemer Job 19:25

Saviour Isa 45:15 , John 42:2, 1 Tim 4:10

The Amen Rev 3:14

The Living God

Anchor Heb 6:19

The BRANCH Zech 6:12

Bread of Life John 6:15

The Resurrection & Life John 11.25

The Living God, who is the Saviour of all men,

Gigi.

Part 5.

Divine light was only found in the Holy Place. Only as worshipers in the present age pass by the cross and laver and come to Christ for light are they truly worshiping God. Christ is the Lamp unto our feet, and the Holy Spirit is the Light unto our path (see Psalm 119:105). Christ said, "I am the light of the world" ( John 8:12). The true believers alone know that to be true.

Believers today have been sent into the world as lights: "Ye are the light of the world" ( Matthew 5:14).We are merely reflectors, to reflect His light. Only as we walk in Him can we be lights in the world. A reflector must be where the light is, in order to reflect it.

End article.

Side note;

The number 6 is the number for man. Seven is the number of completion.

We're complete in Christ .

In the OT the Lord was In the midst of Israel.

In Revelation 1:12-13 we see the Lord in the midst of the Lampstand.

In verse 20 the Lord Identify the Lampstand as the seven Churches. Here is the complete Church bearing light on the Lampstand. Revelation 1:20.

This light also represents our witness. In Revelation 2:5 Jesus tells Ephesus he will remove their candle stick.

The light isn't meant to shine light on the the candle stick, It's meant to shine light on the one in the Midst. The Lord.

When done so you see what is revealed in Revelation 1:13-17.

You see Deity, Judgment, The word, Eyes of flaming fire that reveals and exposes.

Thanks for allowing me Gigi.

Good night.

Amen Brother Jesse

There's a lot being said in those scriptures and also these!

John 15:18-21.

If the world hate you, ye know that it hated me before it hated you.

IF YE WERE OF THE WORLD, THE WORLD WOULD LOVE HIS OWN: BUT BECAUSE YE ARE NOT OF THE WORLD, BUT I HAVE CHOSEN YOU OUT OF THE WORLD, THEREFORE THE WORLD HATETH YOU.

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.

But all these things will they do unto you for my name's sake, because they know not him that sent me.

They hated the Lord without a cause!! They hated him for telling the truth! John 8:42-47.

Galatians 4:16-20.

John 15:26.

John 16:12-15.

It shouldn't be surprising when we see hatred from the world and those of the world gravitate toward one of the other and those that are Christ gravitate toward one another!

Here's why!

John 15:17 These things I command you, that ye love one another.

John 4:20-21.

If a man say, I love God, and hateth his brother, he is a liar: for he that loveth not his brother whom he hath seen, how can he love God whom he hath not seen?

And this commandment have we from him, That he who loveth God love his brother also.

1 John 2:3-11.

If Christ spirit doesn't CAUSE you to Love one another then perhaps the world spirit and the father of lies stand in the way.

When the Spirit of truth is taken out of the way then the father of lies will be revealed.

God bless.

Hammer63 Thank you for your response. Yes I have considered ( Gen 4:1) In that verse the word (conceived) is #2030; it means pregnant, (be, woman) with child. But you need to read the next verse for the full context ( Gen 4:2) It says "And she (again) bare his brother Abel". The word (again) is #3254; it means to add or augment, to continue to do a thing, add, again. If a woman gives birth to a child then continues to do a thing, which is her being in labour and bares his brother. Then what has happened? She had Twins! Other things point to this also, ( Gen 3:3) The word (touch) is #5060; it means to touch, lay the hand upon, TO LIE WITH A WOMAN. ( Gen 3:7) Tells us their eyes were opened and ((they knew that they were NAKED)). ( Gen 3:15-16) In verse 15 the LORD is speaking to the serpent and says "And I will put (enmity) between thee and the woman, and between ((thy seed)) and ((her seed))" First the (enmity) is #342; it means hostility, hatred, to hate, to be hostile. The word (seed) is #2233; it means posterity, carnally, child, to disseminate, bear, conceive seed. The word (seed) in Greek is #4690; it means something sown, i.e. ((seed including male "sperm")). Now we take a look at a couple of verses in the New Testament? First the Words of Jesus in ( John 8:44) Ye are of your father the devil,. Then we are told in ( 1 John 3:12) Not as Cain, who was of that wicked one,. This was the reason Cain's works were evil, and his brother's righteous? Cain was of that wicked one, the serpent in the garden, the devil. The devil was trying to corrupt the blood line that he knew Jesus Christ would come through. I hope you can see this Hammer63. Blessings.

May God be with those you choose to be deceiving and hide the Truth. ( Mark 4:22) ( Luke 8:17) ( John 8:32) ( John 14:6) ( Luke 11:23) Nothing is hid from God! Blessings to all.

This confirms in John 8:32, we must walk in the truth as it revealed to us by the Holy Spirit of God the Father. Praise God for His Grace.

Spiritual Truth - Part 1

The Word of God teaches us in 1 Cor. 2:14 that 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.

This is why those communicating their messages in this 'forum' so often use the word 'discerning' while the 'Word of God' is not of any private interpretation ( 2 Peter 1:20). This is why it also teaches; that anyone that is spiritual judgeth all things, yet he himself is judged of no man ( 1 Cor. 2:15).

Please remember, the words from the 'Word of God' are according to the 'Spirit of Truth' ( John 14:17). Furthermore, the Spirit of truth cannot be received by this world ( John 14:17) as this whole world has been deceived ( Rev. 12:9).

May we suggest you search the words 'a world deceived' an learn how you may know the difference between the 'natural' and the 'spiritual' body ( 1 Cor. 15:44) and how and by whom this whole world has been deceived ( Rev. 12:9).

Seek, and ye shall find ( Matthew 7:7).

It is God's will for all men to be saved, and to come unto the knowledge of the truth ( 1 Timothy 2:4), but not everyone that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven ( Matthew 7:21).

Many will say unto me that day, Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in thy name? And in thy name have cast out devils? And in thy name done many wonderful works? ( Matthew 7:22).

And then will I profess unto them I never knew you: depart from me, ye that work iniquity ( Matthew 7:23). If you would like to know who by nature your Father is, may we suggest you read John 8::43-45.

John 8:36 assures us that with the Son we are "free indeed". Freedom; in short is opposite of what the world follows as we are slaves or bondservants of Christ ( 1 Cor. 4; 7). To follow the prince of this world and all its temporary pleasures is, in reality; a dead end whereas His riches in glory for those who love Him are eternal for those saints which are already seated with Him in "heavenly places." ( Eph. 2:6).

When seeking His will and petitioning prayers; it is His Covenant promises which we can tenaciously proclaim as it is His binding contract with His people that He has made with His good pleasure. This is certainly different than just seeking those things that seem most convenient to make us more comfortable in this life. It truly is best when His life is the guide to our lives and He can be the "captain" of our salvation ( Hebrews 2:10). It is this or being shipwrecked; as it were which is a warning for those who fall away ( 1 Timothy 1:9 as a general admonition along with specific individuals in other Pauline writings).

It is helpful, therefore to have brothers more mature in the faith as "iron sharpens iron." ( Proverbs 27:17). We should also have our individual walk grow to maturity with our quiet times; prayer life and devotionals. John 6:45 shows that we shall all be taught of God; so we should learn to discern His voice from the cacaphony that rings in our ears.

As adopted sons of God ( Gal. 4:5) we are granted therefore all the blessings and substance of the inheritance. The eternal riches in Glory certainly outweigh any earthly pleasures ( 2 Cor. 4:17). We should strive therefore to remain steadfast and remain in His will. The flesh is dying daily in terms of the outward man (see previous verse 16) but the inward man is being conformed to His image. (see Romans 12:2). To deny ungodliness is true freedom ( Titus 2:12) despite our natural affections that seem to indicate the contrary.

Spiritual Truth - Part 1

The Word of God teaches us in 1 Cor. 2:14 that 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.

This is why those communicating their messages in this 'forum' so often use the word 'discerning' while the 'Word of God' is not of any private interpretation ( 2 Peter 1:20). This is why it also teaches; that anyone that is spiritual judgeth all things, yet he himself is judged of no man ( 1 Cor. 2:15).

Please remember, the words from the 'Word of God' are according to the 'Spirit of Truth' ( John 14:17). Furthermore, the Spirit of truth cannot be received by this world ( John 14:17) as this whole world has been deceived ( Rev. 12:9).

May we suggest you search the words 'a world deceived' an learn how you may know the difference between the 'natural' and the 'spiritual' body ( 1 Cor. 15:44) and how and by whom this whole world has been deceived ( Rev. 12:9).

Seek, and ye shall find ( Matthew 7:7).

It is God's will for all men to be saved, and to come unto the knowledge of the truth ( 1 Timothy 2:4), but not everyone that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven ( Matthew 7:21).

Many will say unto me that day, Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in thy name? And in thy name have cast out devils? And in thy name done many wonderful works? ( Matthew 7:22).

And then will I profess unto them I never knew you: depart from me, ye that work iniquity ( Matthew 7:23). If you would like to know who by nature your Father is, may we suggest you read John 8::43-45.

Elizabeth,

For the believer, Jesus is our hope ( 1 Timothy 1:1), He is our peace ( Ephesians 2:14), He is the light of the world ( John 8:12), He is the good shepherd who gave His life for His sheep (All those who have surrendered their life to Him ( John 10:11), He is the head of the church ( Ephesians 1:22), He is the only one who sets us free from our sin ( John 8:36), He is our redeemer ( Job 19:25), He is the only atoning sacrifice for our sin ( 1 John 4:10), He is the Savior of those who receive Him ( Luke 2:11, John 1:12), He is the creator of all things ( Colossians 1:16-17, John 1:1-3), He is the word of God, and He is God ( John 1:1, Isaiah 9:6), He is our only way to salvation ( John 10:9, John 14:6).

There are many, many more descriptors in the Bible that tell us who Jesus is, but it would take many more posts to list them all.

Skiman,

They could be basing their claim on any one of the following pieces of scripture:

John 1:1, John 1:14, John 8:24, John 8:58, John 10:30-33, John 20:28, Hebrews 1:8, Colossians 2:9, Philippians 2:5-8, Psalm 45:6.

The Bible tells us that we are to worship God alone, and yet Jesus received worship and never rebuked anyone who worshipped Him. We see evidence of this in Matthew 2:2, Matthew 2:11, Matthew 14:33, Matthew 28:9, John 9:35-38, Hebrews 1:6.

Isaiah 44:6 reads, "Thus says the Lord, the King of Israel and his Redeemer, the Lord of hosts: "I am the first and I am the last, and there is no God besides me."

In Rev 1:17, it says "And when I saw him, I fell at his feet as a dead man." In Daniel 10:8-9, Daniel did the same thing. When he saw this vision of Christ, he fell down as he was dead. In Ezekiel 1:28, Ezekiel sees the vision and he falls down as a dead man. It goes on to say "Fear not; I am the first and the last: (the designation of God, found in Isaiah 41:4, and Isaiah 48:12).

In Revelation 1:18, it says I am He that lives, and this is another designation of God found in Psalm 84:2, and Joshua 3:10.

I am He that lives. God presents Himself to the Jews as the living God. He says I am He that lives, and was dead; literally, and became dead, and behold, I am living forevermore, His resurrection, His eternalness.

And then it reads, Amen; and I have the keys of hell and of death. Keys are a symbol of authority. Those who were in charge of the temple had the keys to the temple. We are told later on that the Lord (Jesus) will be in control of hell and death.

In Matthew 16:15, Jesus asks His disciples who do you say I am? Peter had the perfect answer. Peter said "Thou art the Christ, the Son of the living God."

Peter was Jewish. The phrase "Son of the living God" from a Hebrew standpoint is a phrase used for God. To a Jew, claiming to be the Son of God was considered blasphemy, but that was Peter's response to who Jesus was

Hello Caleb,

Genesis 2:15,16,17, Genesis 3:1-6, skipping parts Genesis 3:14,15, between the seed of Serpent - Revelation 20:2,

John 8:34, 1John 3, Romans 5, John 3:16-21, James 1:5, Proverbs 8:17,

Example, simple Salvation "GOD save me" many times in life threatening situations, & many times HE has. Psalms 18:3, Psalms 107:13, Psalms 44:7, Luke 18:42, Psalms 34:6,

Matthew 10:22, Hebrews 2, Matthew 24, Mark 13, Psalms 139,

Romans 10:13, context Romans 10, Everlasting Salvation, Isaiah 45:17, Acts 4,

1John 3:14, Job 38:17, Revelation 20, Psalms 49, Ecclesiastes 8:8, Romans 5, Revelation 21,

Hopefully these are helpful

I think John 8:44 is talking about Cain the first murderer. But he is talking to Kenites who are thr bloodline of Cain. Cain is the son of Satan, Abel son of Adam.

Hi Ronald, nice to hear from you. Good reply.

We are called to not imitate the world, but Christ. So, just as the Israelites were not to imitate the ungodly practices of the surrounding nations, we are not to imitate the practices of the world that are ungodly, also. I don't think we need to live a "separatist's" lifestyle like some sects do, but we should, in our dress and conduct stand out as godly people who fear and honor God in all we do. We are to love not the world and the lusts of it, but to love what God has determined to be good and decent, setting ourselves apart as holy unto the Lord, as the Israelites were set apart for God and His purposes.

John 8:23; Romans 12:2; 1 John 2:15

Ronald, I hope you are doing well. Hope to hear from you more often.

"I never knew you." ( Matthew 7:23). Such verses bring a shiver up our spines; when we understand the grace of God toward our souls if we are truly saved. Such an intimate knowledge can be described best on a human level with that of a husband and wife as they properly interact serving and growing together in their designated roles.

This type of relationship is best described as God loving us DESPITE who we are which is unlike seemingly endless Christian songs that somehow lead us to believe that He loves us no matter what we do or who we are. Ultimately; God did rescue us from sin and sacrificed His Son even though we were "enemies of God" (Phillipians 3:18 and many other references). But He foreknew us as being "conformed to the image of His Son" ( Romans 8:29 and again numerous other verses on that subject). He only "knows" us therefore if He can see His Son in us and we are truly "seated in heavenly places" ( Eph. 2:6). As I have said many times recently; He chastises all those He loves (see Proverbs 3:12; Hebrews 12:6-7). What many don't read is the following verse ( Heb. 12:8) that states in that we are illegitimate children (I will avoid the harsher term KJV has as I don't want to be flagged but it pays to read it). We are; in fact either children of God or of the Devil. That was made quite clear to the Pharisees ( John 8:44).

Such passages shouldn't be foreign to us as parents. If we truly love our own offspring we don't want them flailing about in this world of endless dangers; toils and snares without discipline and guidane although sadly many parents even in the church are sorely deficient in parenting skills.

In our personal lives; and I am speaking to myself here-we need to be aware of our weaknesses (with me it tends to be obsessiveness with hobbies; music etc) and learn to trust Him to guide us so that we can do all things for the glory of God. ( 1 Cor. 10:31). Such is the case with this site as well. It is not just for my ranting.

Monica, first you need to recognize that this is spiritual warfare EPHESIANS 6:12. I know this because the Bible says God will not leave you or forsake you.

The devil is the father of lies and he would love you to accuse God and let go of your faith. Remember for example how satan deceived Eve in the garden.

God is merciful and not willing that any should perish. His mercies are brand new every morning, like the sunrise!

If you have not been living right and are being chastised by the Lord that's a good thing. Repent and renew your relationship with Jesus Christ.

Rebuke the lies of the enemy. He knows that God will never leave you or forsake you. They are lying spirits. Remember that God loved the world so much that He gave His only begotten Son to save us.

Thank and praise Him for that. He's a good good Father who loves you!

Please do not let satan cause you to declare these accusations against the Lord. Ask God to forgive you.

I went through this too awhile back when I was seeking restoration. I had to encourage myself with scripture. God doesn't give up on His children. That contradicts His character. Think about that.

We're living in the last days and we've got to encourage one another to cling to the Lord with everything we've got.

Here are some scriptures to memorize. Write them on index cards and tape them to your cabinets, walls, etc. Keep them in front of your eyes!

Genesis 3:1-4

John 8:44

Deuteronomy 31:6-8

Ephesians 6:12

Hebrews 13:5

Hebrews 4:16

As for anxiety and depression, they are spiritual. Ask God to show you how to defeat them in the spirit. How to overcome. You are not alone most people have battled with these.

Scripture is how Jesus fought the enemy. Remember Ephesians 6:11, put on your armor daily. You must walk in the spirit.

I say these things with much love and to encourage you, my sister in Christ, in Jesus name. You will overcome. Plead the blood of Jesus.

Part 1/2 "Why I believe the Holy Bible", Writings from 3 continents: Asia, Africa & Europe, in 3 languages: Hebrew, Greek & some Aramaic. 40 authors & 66 volumes over 1,500 yrs from all walks of life. Why 4 gospels? They tell same story from a different prospective, for instance; MATTHEW: to a Jewish (they read backwards) ppl & their genealogy. MARK: is brevity, his message can be captured in a single verse, "For even the Son of man came not to be ministered unto, but to minister, & to give His life a ransom for many" & a servant on the move, instantly responsive to the will of the Father. By preaching, teaching, & healing, He ministers to the needs of others even to the point of death. 'After the Resurrection, He commissions His followers to, continue His work in His power-servants following in the steps of the perfect Servant. LUKE: a physician, writes w/the compassion & warmth of a family doctor as he carefully documents the perfect humanity of the Son of Man. Jesus Christ. Emphasizing Jesus' ancestry, birth & early life before moving carefully & collected from witnesses on Historical & Chronologically. Collected from witnesses & ministers of the word on History & in Chronological order, 1:1-4 & presents Christ in His humanity as the Son of Man; John portrays Him in His deity as the Son of God. JOHN: is topical, evangelism, focuses around 7 miracles: 1. fed thousands of ppl 2. cast out evil spirits 3. healed the blind, deaf, sick, injured & infirmed 4. turned water into wine 5. controlled the water & other elements of nature 6. caught a surprisingly large amount of fish & 7. raised ppl from the dead, including himself. Plus, His own birth was a miracle in it self! the 7 "I AM" statements of Christ. Jesus said unto them, "I AM" the Bread Life in John 6:35,41,48 & 51, "I Am" the Light of the World John 8:12 & 9:5 then in 8:58, Verily verily, I say unto you, before before Abraham was "I AM"... continued..

Part 1 of 2, "Why I Defend the Holy Bible": Writings from 3 continents; Asia, Africa & Europe, in 3 languages: Hebrew, Greek & some Aramaic. 40 authors & 66 volumes over 1,500 yrs from all walks of life. The 4 gospels tell same story from a different prospective, for instance; MATTHEW, a Jew: to Jewish people & their genealogy about a Jew (Jesus). MARK: is brevity, (specific & brief in description) his message can be captured in a single verse, "For even the Son of man came Not to be ministered unto, but to minister, & to give His life a ransom for many" & a servant on the move, instantly responsive to the will of the Father. By preaching, teaching, & healing, He ministers to the needs of others even to the point of death. 'After the Resurrection, He commissions His followers to, continue His work in His power-servants following in the steps of the perfect Servant. LUKE: a physician, writes w/the compassion & warmth of a family doctor as he carefully documents the perfect humanity of the Son of Man-Jesus Christ. Emphasizing Jesus' ancestry, birth & early life before moving carefully & collected from witnesses & ministers Historically & Chronologically, of the word on History & in Chronological order, 1:1-4 & presents Christ in His humanity as the Son of Man; John portrays Him in His deity as the Son of God. JOHN: is topical, evangelism, focuses around 7 miracles & I AMs: 1. He fed thousands of people, 2. He cast out evil spirits, 3. He healed the blind, deaf, sick, injured & infirmed, 4. He turned water into wine, 5. He controlled the water & other elements of nature, 6. He caught a surprisingly large amount of fish &, 7. He raised people from the dead, including himself. Plus, His own birth was a miracle in it self! the 7 "I AM" statements of Christ. Jesus said unto them, "I AM" the Bread Life in John 6:35,41,48 & 51, "I Am" the Light of the World John 8:12 & 9:5 then in 8:58, Verily verily, I say unto you, before Abraham was "I AM".

That's a beautiful testimony. I often pray for workers of darkness to be set free and when I hear a testimony such as yours I just have to stop and worship the Lord.

John 8:36

"If the Son therefore shall make you free, ye shall be free indeed."

Psalms 107:2

"Let the redeemed of the LORD say so, whom he hath redeemed from the hand of the enemy;"

Predestination part 2 (in regard to eternal life or death specifically).

If we look into the whole issue of God predestining some for heaven and others for hell; we often refer to the term "double predestination". We need to keep in mind the verses such as hell was created for the Devil and his angels ( Matt. 25:41) and that God is not a respecter of men ( Romans 2:11 etc) as well as the fact that He takes no pleasure in the death of the wicked. ( Ezekiel 18:23). As I stated recently; there IS rejoicing among the Godhead as well as God's people when the wicked are judged; as the earth is purged from corruption.

In regard then to the destruction of the wicked; it is because of sin that is not sought to be forgiven and that through the METHOD God has given; namely through the substitutionary atonement of the Son. Many remain stuck on that point as those of the true "Grace Gospel" expose when they still think they have some merit on righteousness of their own. Only the 100 percent wicked need a 100 percent Savior; it is an all or nothing proposition. We need to realize that Satan is the father of all those who are outside the faith. ( John 8:44). Someone may accept their own sin but try telling them that fact; or worse that is the fate of family members who are or were not believers and have passed. This is a serious concern among those who remember their relatives as they were; and if they saw them in torment it would hardly give them a nostalgic feeling. Realizing that apart from Christ we are only thinking of ourselves ultimately as our motivation isn't fun. Also realizing that putting SELF on the throne is exactly what Satan does to lureus as he himself has that mindset then we are quite humbled. These aren't fun things to ponder but it certainly does get our mind off all the chaos in this world; important as some issues are compared to the eternal fate of sinners.

Matthew 1:21-25 kjv, John 1:14kjv, John 8:58 kjv,

Hebrews 13:8 kjv , John 14:6 kjv, Philippians 2:5-11 kjv.

John 8:51

"Verily, verily, I say unto you, If a man keep my saying, he shall never see death."

John 8:39-41

"They answered and said unto him, Abraham is our father. Jesus saith unto them, If ye were Abraham's children(similarly if we are Jesus children), ye would do the works of Abraham(similarly of Christ).

But now ye seek to kill me, a man that hath told you the truth, which I have heard of God: this did not Abraham.

Ye do the deeds of your father (devil). ..."

John 8:31-32

"Then said Jesus to those Jews which believed on him, "If ye continue in my word, then are ye my disciples indeed;

And ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free."

The preverbal question that comes up is what comes first...in this case is it Christmas or pagan stories of a similar nature? If you are already determined to be a diehard atheist; then I suppose you could automatically designate the story of the birth of Christ (which you can see is in those verses as well as the start of other Gospels) as a late version of say Semiramis or the countless mother and child mythologies involving a virgin child; or offspring from the "gods"; etc.

The genealogical descendants as you will observe are listed in Matthew from Joseph; but in Luke they are from Mary's lineage.

One point that is brought out in Matthew is the census; clearly the lineage of each family was well known in the list of descendants. There are some complexities involved which on a surface level may appear to be discrepancies. Nonetheless; the whole history of the O.T. had to have descendants for the Messiah to come through certain individuals. David was promised according to Mark 12:36 (referring to an O.T. scripture) that Messiah would be in his lineage.

The whole Christian faith hinges on God coming in the form of a man who could live as we did but without sin; and becoming the final atoning sacrifice. The O.T. sacrifices have been gone for nearly 2000 years; the occurrence of the curtain tearing in the Temple happened when Christ died. He had to overcome death and was Resurrected as well; all prophesied events. (See Luke 23:44-45). The virgin birth was promised in Isaiah 7:14. Christ had to not be born with the sin nature which all sons of Adam had (so wasn't from natural human seed). He had to take on our sins as the sacrificial lamb.

He had to be God (as God the Son and part of the eternal Godhead demonstrated as early as the Book of Genesis where God created man in "our image" ( Genesis 1:26). Only God can forgive; and Christ stating that He was the "I am" ( John 8:58) showed He was truly God as only God can forgive sins.