I believe during Jesus ministry he preached the kingdom Gospel to the lost sheep of Israel.
I also believe the kingdom message has been suspended until the Jews call upon the Lord during the Great Tribulation.
I believe this is shown in " Hosea 5:15" I will go and return to my place, till they acknowledge their offence, and seek my face: in their affliction they will seek me early.
Also Jesus quotes Psalms 118:26 in Luke 13:35.
Listen to King David beginning from verse 22 to get the context. The stone which the builders refused is become the head stone of the corner.
This is the LORD'S doing; it is marvellous in our eyes.
This is the day which the LORD hath made; we will rejoice and be glad in it.
Save now, I beseech thee, O LORD: O LORD, I beseech thee, send now prosperity.
Blessed be he that cometh in the name of the LORD: we have blessed you out of the house of the LORD. Psalms 118:22-26
In Matthew 28:18-20 Jesus commissions the Apostles to go reach all nations though their primary mission was to the Jews and Paul's was to the Gentiles.
I believe this was to bring all under the ministry of the cross for salvation apart from the kingdom message until the fulness of the Gentiles be come in.
When I read Galatians 2:9-19 it seems that Paul expects Peter and the other Jews to walk according to the Gospel of grace rather than mixing laws of the Kingdom message and the liberty of the New covenant.
Grace was preached in rituals in the OT and played out in the NT.
Grace never changed throughout the Dispensations.
However the mystery and revelation began to unfold and faith being displayed differently.
"Faith looking foward and Faith looking back as revelation was being revealed.
There's still eye opening for Israel yet to come!
This eye opening will bring in the Davidic Kingdom.
Dear Almighty God Father and Creator. We are so grateful for Your great Grace. You who see all things, and You Lord know about Ruben. We pray in Jesus' name for Ruben that he renews his mind in You Lord. He humbly asks for help against the infection he has Jesus. And if there is anything spiritual in this. We now chase the disease out in Your Holy Name Jesus. Disease disappear into the deepest darkness, never come back in Jesus Christ's Holy Name, Amen. We thank you in advance for answered prayers, Amen. Hallelujah Praise be to God! Eph 1:3
I have another word for you today too Ruben. It says in Luke 13:22-33
Resist evil with all that you have, from now on and forever. It is best for all people, so they can stay clean. Let the song of praise break out in your heart, and shout for joy. Show the wicked that you love the Lord Jesus Christ and no other! Love you in Christ.
The concept of God allowing bad things to happen surely; as it were is on steroids today and not exactly diminishing in the Tribulation. We see verses where Christ discusses the fall of the tower of Siloam as well as the horrific experience of those killed due to Pilate's insanity ( Luke 13:1-4). Frankly I haven't heard any commentaries regarding exactly how either of these events went down although what happened to the Galileans isn't something I'm in any rush to examine further.
It is edifying in the sense that these passages show Christ was aware what was happening outside of the immediate parameters of His ministry. He used parables primarily; especially later on during His ministry with the Pharisees to bring out their hypocrisy with very specific wsys that they were "lording it" over the populus.
I already elaborated as to the overall reason for the time of Jacob's Trouble; or otherwise known to the world at large as the Tribulation. The Jews and Gentiles at that time are separately dealt with and judged as I also pointed out the other day.
Jesus wasn't playing when He mentioned coming back to rule and reign and killing His enemies ( Luke 19:27) The parables avoid specificity as to inditing any specific individual; and this is further evidenced by His silence with Pilate during his inquisition before He was crucified. He seemed to talk in the third person a lot; such is the concept of John 8:37. The same idea of course of Parables involved the righteous and blessings which are proclaimed in the "Sermon on the mount". We need to carefully examine these passages to avoid improper judgment of behaviors and attitudes of any individual "before the time" as their current state may or may not be permanent depending on if they come to faith or not. All that being said the church is to judge among its own; righteously but for the sake of jealousy for His Name and presence in the House of God.
At that time some of those present told Jesus about the Galileans whose blood Pilate had mixed with their sacrifices. 2To this He replied, "Do you think that these Galileans were worse sinners than all the other Galileans, because they suffered this fate? 3No, I tell you. But unless you repent, you too will all perish. 4Or those eighteen who were killed when the tower of Siloam collapsed on them: Do you think that they were more sinful than all the others living in Jerusalem? 5No, I tell you. But unless you repent, you too will all perish."
Continuing on the idea of prayer; we see of course that some things can't be explained. The first passage is as close as I can see to people being killed by Satanists as to what happened to the Galileans through Pilate clearly influenced by the Devil.
The second passage here shows what appears to be a "happenstance" event that killed 18 people. Jesus shows this theme of destruction coming for all unrepentant sinners either now or at the judgment immediately upon death.
More generally; we see that certain things are going to happen and no doubt this isn't exclusive to unsaved individuals. Again; however we CAN avoid certain fates if we don't have destructive lifestyles such as the Word suggests about the adulterous woman (see Ecclesiastes 7:26). The same can be said; of course of a substance abuser; gambler; etc.
I am hoping and praying our church will continue to trend toward more prayer and this will occur in more churches nationwide.
I can pretty much guarantee accelerated moves to destruction if not. We have no guarantee that our nation will even exist or in what form by the time of the Rapture and onset of the Tribulation; although it seems total destruction won't occur of any nation before that. Let us redeem the times for the days are evil. We need to continue to spread the Good News and count the cost as no doubt Christian persecution is to come after the Jews are attacked.
Matthew 12:33 "Either make the tree good, and his fruit good; or else make the tree corrupt, and his fruit corrupt: for the tree is known by his fruit."
Matthew 19:16 "And, behold, one came and said unto him, Good Master, what good thing shall I do, that I may have eternal life?"
Matthew 19:17 "And he said unto him, Why callest thou me good? there is none good but one, that is, God: but if thou wilt enter into life, keep the commandments."
Exodus 20:8-11 Remember the sabbath day, to keep it holy. 9Six days shalt thou labour, and do all thy work: 10But the seventh day is the sabbath of the LORD thy God: in it thou shalt not do any work, thou, nor thy son, nor thy daughter, thy manservant, nor thy maidservant, nor thy cattle, nor thy stranger that is within thy gates: 11For in six days the LORD made heaven and earth, the sea, and all that in them is, and rested the seventh day: wherefore the LORD blessed the sabbath day, and hallowed it.
Luke 13:4 states: "Or those eighteen, upon whom the tower in Siloam fell, and slew them, think ye that they were sinners above all men that dwelt in Jerusalem?
In studying today's news headlines on what happened in New Orleans we see how some perished being at the wrong place and the wrong time and see a parallel to this verse. Without sounding dismissive I would emphasize that hanging out in crowds who are characterized by drinking and carousing in densely packed areas are more often apt to such a fate in part as a judgment of God.
We of course shouldn't be arrogant as to our higher moral behaviors somehow justifying us.
Another way of looking at it is if we look at the lives of such individuals say 24 hours before their passing would they seem so innocent; clearly some who die in this way are saved; others lost but the warning notwithstanding in the next verse is that without repentance we all will perish; whether now or years in the future and meet the same fate if we are unregenerated in the meantime.
Perhaps a good segway at this point is to look at the story of the wedding in Cana; and how Jesus often ate and drank with "sinners" to the point where He was accused of being a "winebibber"; or just hobnobbing with "sinners" by the self righteous Pharisees. Today it seems the family celebrations such as this are often forgotten; if not with formal weddings being abandoned we certainly don't have a feast these days too often for the wayward brother coming back home as was the case with the Prodigal son. So genuine feasts that are honorable have been replaced by self-indulgences and other vices of immorality.
Of course the outer damage the enemy inflicts is just a shadow of the spiritual warfare in the heavenly places. We see suicidal tendencies and murder inspired by another god and his instruction manual(s). The fact that this isn't considered "normal" in our nation shows in all honesty how weak the church is here today; we all need a "reality check
Matt 21:19 "And when he saw a fig tree in the way, he came to it, and found nothing thereon, but leaves only, and said unto it, Let no fruit grow on thee henceforward for ever. And presently the fig tree withered away."
This verse relates directly to Matt 24:32, because this verse is saying there were leaves only, that is, there was no fruit. In the Bible, fruit relates to salvation. We also read in Luke 13:7
"7 Then said he unto the dresser of his vineyard, Behold, these three years I come seeking fruit on this fig tree, and find none: cut it down; why cumbereth it the ground?"
Despite Jesus ministering personally to the nation of Israel for approximately three years, healing the sick and raising the dead, very few believed on him. Fact is, the spiritual rulers wanted him crucified because he dared to make himself equal with God. Therefore, Jesus cursed the fig tree, saying, "Let no fruit grow on thee henceforward for ever". This curse extends to the very present day, more than seventy years since Israel was officially reconstituted as a nation in May of 1948. That event of Israel being reconstituted as a nation identifies with the fig tree putting forth leaves in Matt 24:32, and please note, there is nothing said about fruit, only leaves.
Note that the verse says, "When his branch is yet tender, and putteth forth leaves, ye know that summer is nigh." Summer in the Bible identifies with harvest, which implies there is going to be some great activity of salvation taking place. Then in the next verse, God declares, "So likewise ye, when ye shall see all these things, know that it is near, even at the doors." By that statement God is declaring that we are presently in the end-time scenario described in Matt 24. This is because a wise man's heart shall discern both time and judgment, and because we are at that time in history when God is taking the seals off of those truths that have been kept sealed during the church age.
The invitation made to John around 2000 years ago is extendable to all people now on this seventh and last Day, and you will know better what will and must happen from now on, on this seventh and last Day, the Day of the Lord. Revelation 11:15 and 19: 15 ->The kingdoms OF THIS WORLD are become the Kingdoms of our Lord, and of His Christ; and He shall reign for ever and ever.
-->19 And the temple of GOD was opened in heaven(heaven? Ephesians 1:3-8), and there was seen in His temple the Ark of His Testament: and there were(will be) lightnings, and VOICES, and thunderings, and an earthquake( Revelation 16:18), and great hail.
Luke 13:29
29 And they shall come from the east, and from the west, and from the north, and from the south, and shall sit down in the Kingdom of GOD.
Come up hither, yeah, come up hither, unto every one that hath shall be given, and he shall have abundance: but from him that hath not...it will be a waste of time to want to buy now, the bridegroom has come and shut the door, the door is shut( Luke 13:25 combined with Revelation 3:7), and he that was /is ready goes in with Him to the marriage: and the door is closed-->for ever.
Lord, Lord, open to us. Oh Lord, open to us, open to us... Lord, Oh Lord ...open...
Luke 13:25-27
25 When once the Master of the house is risen up, and hath shut to the door, and ye begin to stand without, and to knock at the door, saying, Lord, Lord, open unto us; and he answers and says unto you, I know you not whence ye are:
26 And ye begin to say, We have eaten and drunk in thy presence, and thou hast taught in our streets.
Lord, Lord, open to us. Oh Lord, open to us, open to us... Lord, Oh Lord ...open...
Luke 13:5 - I tell you, Nay: but, except ye repent, ye shall all likewise perish.
Jesus says I tell you, No. And in the Greek text it's very emphatic. But, except ye repent, ye shall all likewise perish.
There are actually two words in the New Testament for repent. The main word is the word METANOEO, and it basically means to make a decision for change. It also carries with it the understanding that if you make a decision for change, you can't change yourself. You can only make the decision for change.
So, when a person repents and comes to Christ, that means they have made a decision to change the direction of their life, and they are asking the Lord to come into their life and make the changes. I can't do it. Yet God is offering a free gift in the person of Christ.
The second word METAMELOMAI, is found in Matthew 27:3. This is of Judas. He (Judas) repented, but he did not repent as in in METANOEO. The word repent used for Judas was METAMELOMAI.
METAMELOMAI means to be sorry. That is not repentance. Judas was sorry for what he did, and he went out and killed himself. That is not repentance. Repentance is when you make a decision for change, and you come to Christ, and you say I want to change the direction of my life, but I can't change it myself. The only way I can be changed is by Christ.
Luke 13:24 - Strive to enter in at the strait gate: for many, I say unto you, will seek to enter in, and shall not be able.
The word "strive" is the word AGONIDZO where we get the word agonize from. Agonize to enter in at the strait gate: for many, I say unto you, will seek to enter in, and shall not be able.
Ex.24:11 " Also they saw God, and did eat and drink."
The superscription refers to Re.19:17. The Day of Regeneration is called the supper of God to which the blessed of God are called and it is also by invitation, as God invited Moses and a select body to 'come up unto the Lord."
Before this let us discuss this passage from the Gospel of St Luke.
Having said a parable in Ch.13 Jesus tells the Jews thus, "Then shall ye begin to say, We have eaten and drunk in thy presence, and thou hast taught in our streets," he goes on to prophesy a great gathering "And they shall come from the east, and from the west, and from the north, and from the south, and shall sit down in the kingdom of God."( Luke 13:29). Background of this is set forth in the Book of Exodus. He referred to the time the Israelites supped in the presence of God which we shall first consider. This event was by invitation and God commanded Moses,
"Come up unto the Lord, thou, and Aaron, Nadab, and Abihu, and seventy of the elders of Israel; and worship ye afar off." The Spirit is setting two days from the Day decreed for his Son. (Ps.2:6-7) So we are looking the two from the Alpha and Omega aspect of Jesus Christ.
Gospel of Salvation has its judgment upon the disobedient,and the day of Regeneration runs simultaneously. This is what new birth means. They are in the forever mode. God revealed himself first through the Law. And I will give thee tables of stone, and a law, and commandments which I have written; that thou mayest teach them." The law is compared to the face. 'The Spirit of God moved upon the face of the waters-'Ge.1:2.It has the body of heaven, "And they saw the God of Israel: and there was under his feet as it were a paved work of a sapphire stone, and as it were the body of heaven in his clearness."(24:10) "God, who at sundry times and in divers manners spake in time past unto the fathers by the prophets,
Luke 13:16 does show that this woman was bound by Satan, but it does not imply that he is responsible for all our illnesses.
In those days, it was a common philosophy among the Jews that if a person was suffering physically, it was because they have sinned or were not right with God. But this woman's physical condition was caused by a demon. This woman had a spirit of infirmity for eighteen years, and she did not have the ability to lift herself up. She walked along and she was almost bent in half and her head was down towards the ground as she was walking.
But what's important to know, and this might answer the question on if the devil is responsible for our illnesses, but not all illnesses or infirmities are caused by demons or Satan. If you remember back in John 9:1-3 about this blind man, the disciples asked, "Who sinned, this man, or his parents that he was born blind?" Jesus answered and said neither!
But you see, that was their philosophy. Their way of thinking was that the only reason that somebody suffers physically is because they have sinned or maybe their parents did, so they are suffering for it. Not all sickness and illness have to do with sin or that somebody has done something wrong. But there are specific things, especially in Jesus' day, that when a person was demonized, possessed by a demon, it also meant that the demon was holding them in prison in some kind of a physical way.
I will introduce briefly another concept which I may have mentioned in passing. That is; if we were invaded by another nation it still may not be the end; and it is possible should the Lord tarry longer than we seem to think at present that it could lead to a true revival or change of heart. Our nation's lazy work ethic has led to legions of evil because of all the free time we have accrued. Those who would survive a war would no doubt be in some sort of forced servitude; but perhaps that would help them appreciate a meal more; and any kindness. The true church would eventually arise; even from the tattered remains. Such is the case no doubt in myriad nations today as the Gospel can never be totally snuffed out.
Sadly; with the number of gun owners in this nation most people probably would die just in one on one combat. Whatever comes to pass; and as cruel as it sounds God does use calamities to SOME extent to rid the world of certain evil people. This is just as true as the fact that a disaster such as the tower at Siloam that fell didn't mean the sinners were any worse or better than anyone else; as we ALL have the same fate apart from Christ's mercy (see Luke 13:1-3). Overall; if we look at Babylon as an example God did spare some of His people and judged others with the invasion. We could have a similar fate. Nonetheless I see it as entirely plausible that we ARE Babylon; at least the economic version of it and likely could be destroyed in a day as Revelation 17 and 18 and many scriptures in Jeremiah reflect on in detail.
As a note for the present; even if the border were closed tomorrow or if it is next January this real invasion still gives us witnessing opportunities. There are innocent children and others mixed in who we should have the heart to help out; although wisdom is needed not knowing who we are dealing with. We need to stand against child sex slavery and illegal sweat shops NOW for His sake
The quote "He that believeth on him is not condemned: but he that believeth not is condemned already, because he hath not believed in the name of the only begotten Son of God." has significance because Jesus is not speaking condemnation in terms of himself. "For the Father judgeth no man, but hath committed all judgment unto the Son:"( John 5:22). But Jesus warns of his Father who shall. "But I will forewarn you whom ye shall fear: Fear him, which after he hath killed hath power to cast into hell; yea, I say unto you, Fear him." Luke 12:5). It is in this sense God warned Adam, "for in the day that thou eatest thereof thou shalt surely die."(Ge.2:17)
What does this lead to? The second death can only be explained after the redemption of man's soul. (Re.20:14) According to the Luke quote The Father has the power to cast man to hell. Those who make up the body has escaped condemnation. They belong to the new heaven and new earth. Jewish nation is cast out into the outer darkness. "There shall be weeping and gnashing of teeth, when ye shall see Abraham, and Isaac, and Jacob, and all the prophets, in the kingdom of God, and you yourselves thrust out."( Luke 13:28-29). When new earth inaugurated the earth is left for the nations. For this reason we read 'healing of the nations mentioned' (Re.22:1-2)
With the first Adam sin entered into the world so the nation that rejected Jesus, is already condemned in him. For those who believed the last Adam everlasting life. "There is therefore now no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit./For the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus hath made me free from the law of sin and death." Without Spirit guiding you have have fallen into error probably taught by imposter church and their foolish shepherds. When God says Jerusalem is like a dish turned upside down it is just that.(2 Ki.21:13-15)
The outer darkness, the earth is His footstool. Is.66:1; Ps.110:1-5
"And Jesus said unto them, Verily I say unto you, That ye which have followed me, in the regeneration when the Son of man shall sit in the throne of his glory, ye also shall sit upon twelve thrones, judging the twelve tribes of Israel." (Matt.19:28)
This is a promise of the Son which must accepted as yea . "For all the promises of God in him are yea, and in him Amen, unto the glory of God by us." (2 Co.1: 20). Everyone who suffered loss shall receive hundredfold.. The verse following the key text includes everyone so service of saints hold both civil and ecclesiastical authority."And every one that hath forsaken houses, or brethren, or sisters, or father, or mother, or wife, or children, or lands, for my name's sake, shall receive an hundredfold, and shall inherit everlasting life." The testimony of Jesus Christ revealed to John through his angel therefore includes this, "And hath made us kings and priests unto God and his Father; to him be glory and dominion for ever and ever. Amen."(Re.1:6)
So the Messianic prophesy addresses "thy people" and what does He promises his Son? "The Lord hath sworn, and will not repent, Thou art a priest for ever after the order of Melchizedek".(Ps.110:1-4). The phrase 'forever' is a tag the Spirit has placed to indicate the Son as intended. The Lord's prayer ends with this phrase and Amen refers to the faithful and true witness, the Amen of divine promises. There is no temple in the new heaven and the earth. Instead it is on the holy mountain of God, Zion "for mine house shall be called an house of prayer for all people."(Is.56:7). Israel shall be cast out into the outer darkness, "There shall be weeping and gnashing of teeth, when ye shall see Abraham, and Isaac, and Jacob, and all the prophets, in the kingdom of God, and you yourselves thrust out" ( Luke 13:28-29) By literalism of imposter churches the advocates of Israel would make the outer darkness seem lit. (2 Co.11:14-15)
"It is like a grain of mustard seed, which, when it is sown in the earth, is less than all the seeds that be in the earth."(v.31). Mark is referring to the same as intended in the Gospel of Matthew.However emphases differ. 'The little one' in Matthew is compared to a grain. It is less than all the seeds in the earth. However it is not the same when Matthew says it was "which a man took, and sowed in his field.". He refers to their position as it is set in heaven. "Take heed that ye despise not one of these little ones; for I say unto you, That in heaven their angels do always behold the face of my Father which is in heaven."(Matt.18:10). Matthew is serving the parable in terms of Jesus Christ on Alpha and Omega mode. The field is the world.(Matt.13:38)
Mark sets the parable in terms of heaven and the earth so the grain of mustard despite of its physical 'littleness" is empowered by the Spirit of God.
"t groweth up, and becometh greater than all herbs, and shooteth out great branches; so that the fowls of the air may lodge under the shadow of it."(v.32) Compare the tree in the king's dream, "the fowls of the heaven dwelt in the boughs thereof" (Dan.4:12). The shadow as the Spirit has indicated in several places signify the authority of God. For instance people brought their sick," Insomuch that they brought forth the sick into the streets, and laid them on beds and couches, that at the least the shadow of Peter passing by might overshadow some of them."(Ac.5:15) Mark is consistent in setting the Power of God casting its shadow so that the fowls of the air may under the shadow of it. "And he said, So is the kingdom of God, as if a man should cast seed into the ground;/And should sleep, and rise night and day, and the seed should spring and grow up, he knoweth not how." (4:26-27)
Luke is closer to the parable in which it is cast into his garden.( Luke 13:19)
For significance of the fowls of the heaven, Re.19:17-18)
After creating man God blessed them:" And God blessed them, and God said unto them, Be fruitful, and multiply, and replenish the earth" (Ge.1:28)", "Be fruitful" was a divine command.
(See under A-Abstract)
In the Parable of the Barren Fig Tree "Then said he unto the dresser of his vineyard, Behold, these three years I come seeking fruit on this fig tree, and find none: cut it down; why cumbereth it the ground?"( Luke 13:7). The Spirit refers to the Son with the number Three. The parable therefore is about believers, which are unproductive. The fig tree unable to produce fruits of the Spirit represents them.
In the Parable of the Sower birds eat up some seeds falling on the wayside, and some are unfruitful owing to the condition of the ground. The evil one is the destroyer that can prevent the word of God from becoming fruitful. The same destroyer is the enemy who scatters tares in a field while men slept. Deceitful riches can choke the heart, which is compared to a field. Jesus Christ was manifested to destroy the works of the devil.( 1 John 3:8)
Satan is the destroyer, whose deceit upset the order that God had created for Adam. He is also a thief who dares not come by the door. For this reason he beguiled Eve through a serpent. "The thief cometh not, but for to steal, and to kill, and to destroy."( John 10:10,1)
"And I will give unto thee the keys of the kingdom of heaven: and whatsoever thou shalt bind on earth shall be bound in heaven: and whatsoever thou shalt loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven."
Firstly we shall examine the manner Jesus used it. "And ought not this woman, being a daughter of Abraham, whom Satan hath bound, lo, these eighteen years, be loosed from this bond on the sabbath day?"( Luke 13:18). Jesus used the passkey and it is called the finger of God. In the case of Moses it was the rod with which he stumped the magicians of Egypt who said,"Then the magicians said unto Pharaoh, This is the finger of God."(Ex.8:19). Jesus explained,"But if I cast out devils by the Spirit of God, then the kingdom of God is come unto you." (12:28) Finger of God in the case of the Son is faith that establishes his paternity,- DNA is faith, and when Moses did as was commanded of God, his rod was a substitute as good as any. The key is merely a label for faith. Jesus set an example for his disciples. Whatever he loosed whether on the Sabbath day or any other on earth was loosed in heaven. Jesus also promised,"Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that believeth on me, the works that I do shall he do also; and greater works than these shall he do; because I go unto my Father."( John 14:12). The context is about the outpouring of the Holy Spirit. The indwelling Spirit shall entrust everyone, an associate to the Son who from the right hand of the Most High, and their faith is the keys of the kingdom. Literal interpretation of the passage gave false shepherds to wrest control over His flock, "Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that entereth not by the door into the sheepfold, but climbeth up some other way, the same is a thief and a robber."(John10:1) Paul and Barnabas also could bind over Elymas, "And now, behold, the hand of the Lord is upon thee, and thou shalt be blind, not seeing the sun for a season. "(Ac.13:11)
As I was reading the words of God, this morning, Luke 13:24-28
Does this not speak to all who believe that there is no overcoming of sin in this present life
" they believe they ate & drink in His presence, & believed that " He taught in our streets".
Yet, the Lord plainly states; Luke 13:27
This reminds me of Matt 7:21,22
This reveals the utter deceitfulness of sin, that Satan has no lack of power to deceive 2Thess 2:9,10
He even has such power to call fire down from heaven. Rev 13:11-16 this is describing false Christianity, listen to what the Scriptures reveal, Rev 13:11 had an image like a lamb, but spoke like a dragon. Teaching that one can be a Christian & know God & continue in sin for life, despite the testimony of Christ, John 8:24, 1John 3:6
Then we have Hebrews 10:26-29; the whole context of these Scriptures here is " sinning is past tense, over, done away with."
They pray, but they regard; Psalms 66:18; in light of the above Scriptures, who do you thing is answering their prayers?
Again, all power in all deceitfulness of unrighteousness, ,,,sin ! 2Timothy 3:5Rev 18:4
Luke 11:33-36 the whole body be full of Light, "Christ" having no dark part, no darkness at all" Revealing "Consummation of Sanctification of the Spirit, obedience unto righteousness unto holiness, partaker's of the Divine Nature.
It also reveals, If one continue in sin for life, then it obvious that there's darkness within & Matt 6:23
Folks, I speak as one concern, I found that in life motions one can be caught up in doing this or that, the swiftness in which life is pasting by, & the world continually drawing us to it concerns, one doesn't stop & truly consider what Holy Spirit plainly states in the Scriptures or why they have not experience it,
Churches are teaching contrary to Scriptures, all are singing a lullaby; cause everybody else is doing it, some more some less, status quo, so it must be true? NOT ! 1Thessalonians 4:7
Just a question not to offend, just to inspire thought and study. Do you think when God placed Adam in the Garden of Eden and told Adam he could eat from every tree and fruit of the garden but one tree? God declared the end from the beginning do you think He did not know what Adam was going to do?
I am sorry, but on some subjects, I struggle to convey my understanding. To continue in sin and repentance is not what I was saying and not the way I am living. Daily repentance and obedience are not living in doubt the power of God's forgiveness. It is a daily lifestyle repentance is a way to progress in our sanctification a pattern of life to endure until the end we forsake sin daily not just one time.
It is through the repentance of all the sins we have done and the glory we give to God through the faith and obedience of Jesus Christ that we can be forgiven. Repentance is the foundation of our lives it is the beginning and the end of our life.
We can get slack, but we must every day test ourselves that we are walking in the Spirit and are striving to endure until the end and that starts with being obedient and repentant as we have been commanded to do, 1 John 1:9Luke 13:3Matt. 4:17Acts 17:30. We will be absent from the presence of sin when we are glorified at our resurrection.
"The earth is the Lord's, and the fulness thereof; the world, and they that dwell therein./ For he hath founded it upon the seas, and established it upon the floods./ Who shall ascend into the hill of the Lord? or who shall stand in his holy place?"(Ps.24:1-3)
Before we take up the topic on hand we shall refresh the matter of the earth and the fulness thereof. The Lord God had intended his Son as his heir. So the fulness of Jesus Christ must be applied as to the entity and its appurtenance. It is a legal term. God established it upon the flood so when the Spirit begins the creation account he informs us, "And the Spirit of God moved upon the face of the waters."(Ge.1:2) Thus God optimize the value of his property so we can well understand the concern of the owner in the Parable of the fig tree, "So he said to the man who took care of the vineyard, 'For three years now I've been coming to look for fruit on this fig tree and haven't found any. Cut it down! Why should it use up the soil?'"( Luke 13:7-NIV) And Isaiah has dilated upon his anguish, "And now, O inhabitants of Jerusalem, and men of Judah, judge, I pray you, betwixt me and my vineyard./ What could have been done more to my vineyard, that I have not done in it? wherefore, when I looked that it should bring forth grapes, brought it forth wild grapes?" (Is.5:3-4)
God sent his prophets from time to time to the earth but the wicked husbandmen treated them vilely and killed many of them. The two witnesses signifying the worlds of the Spirit and of the earth, are presented by the Spirit. They represent from Abel to Zechariah as martyrs and many more. It is in the vein Jerusalem is represented in v.8. This is to be spiritually understood. The Earth abides forever since it belongs to the Son in whom God desired all his fullness to dwell. He is the visible image of the invisible God.
Hi Jema. Just a couple of points to note from your understanding of those passages you quoted. You believe that Simon the Leper ( Matthew 26:6) might be the same person, now named Lazarus (in John 11:1-6). As I understand it, the account of the sickness, death & resurrection of Lazarus (brother of Mary & Martha) took place some time before the account of Simon the Leper. Jesus was on His second journey (after first leaving Jerusalem (in Winter): John 10:22, then onto Jordan: John 10:40) when news came to Him of Lazarus' sickness ( John 11:3). But Jesus continued to stay at Jordan ( John 11:6) & then went to Bethany to deceased Lazarus.
Now the account of Simon the Leper, also in Bethany, occurred very near to the Passover Feast ( Matthew 26:2). And we know this to be so, because after the woman's anointing of Jesus in Simon the Leper's home, Jesus' disciples were annoyed at the waste of this ointment, & Judas Iscariot then left them to put into effect his wicked act. And of course, Jesus then celebrates the Passover with His disciples at the appointed time. So the Lazarus (in John 11) & Simon the Leper (in Matthew 26) can't be the same person and of course it would have saddened Lazarus (& others) tremendously that he who died because of some sickness & was raised by Jesus, yet wasn't healed of his leprosy.
As well, the account of the rich man & (the other) Lazarus ( Luke 16:19-31) is understood to have happened after the Lazarus (of John 11) was raised to life, not before. A synopsis of the Gospels shows that after Jesus began His journey towards Bethany, He also ministered along the way ( Luke 13:22 to Luke 17:1-10). After this, Jesus arrives in Bethany to see the lifeless body of his friend.
23Now when he was in Jerusalem at the passover, in the feast day, many believed in his name, when they saw the miracles which he did.
24But Jesus did not commit himself unto them, because he knew all men,
25And needed not that any should testify of man: for he knew what was in man.
Just as the Son of God warned us that many would claim mighty miracles in His Name ( Matt. 7:22); not knowing Christ as a member of the Godhead kept unregenerate individuals who saw Christ Himself performing them when they ascribed it to someone who was merely a great teacher; or Prophet of God. What the Prophets couldn't do was forgive sins; which is always man's greatest need as we see from John 5:14 where a man for decades was healed from being a paralytic. In this case sin had something to do with his condition but eternal death would probably be the only thing WORSE that Christ was referring to.
Preaching about sin to enemies of God can and will cause strife and persecution. But the whole Gospel must make it clear that our spiritual condition is dead; and judgment inevitable until we are saved; and that only comes through Christ's atonement removing out sins. The Pharisees themselves were looking for signs; even at the cross He was mocked and challenged to save Himself as though He was under the control of those who crucified Him. The concept of setting someone free was overshadowed by the Pharisees tenacious grasp on the law and their many additions of "working on the Sabbath Day" ( Luke 13:16). The crowds wanted free bread and fish; or to be caught up in the acction of the moment; with only a few truly being disciples; worshipping Him; and giving up all for following Him. Matthew 2:7 shows how Herod pretended to want to worship the Christ child; such is the same sort of concept of those who tried to trap Him with questions later on ( Luke 11:53-54). Others only wanted Him to rule as King; which will happen in the Millennium ( John 6:15).
When we see TEN chapters of Luke encompassing the last few days of Christ's life taking up more than a third of the text in the entire book; and similar patterns in all the Gospels; the magnitude of the narrative is exponentially ratched up in terms of the stress on the Messiah; the amount of challenges; as well as the increase in variety of things preached; rebukes to the Pharisees; etc.
I think it is good to ponder on this reality carefully. Christ had already had numerous (some say 10) attempts at being killed at this point; whether attempting to throw Him off a cliff; or stoning as the most popular methodology. He knew through Divine wisdom that He was destined to die at Calvary; thus any earlier attempts to kill Him would be in vain. Nonetheless; He certainly didn't seek to take a break before facing the inevitable-until Gethsemane when He sweat drops of blood and undoutably had angelic strengthening in what was a battle of life and death according to scripture. God would later use others to help carry the cross when His strength failed.
Turning to the ministry with His Disciples; He would at this time emphasize the prophecy of future events (as seen in Matthew 24 for instance). Up until the end; it seemed the Disciples didn't get it as to His need to die (as evidenced by the account of Peter striking the ear of the High Priest when the soldiers came). He also had to deal with the rapid decay from the triumphal entry with the donkey and the "Hosanna's" from the crowd to the rapid shift to "crucify Him" just a week later. He had the betrayal of Judas Iscariot (prophesied in Psalm 41:9); the abandonment of all the Disciples in Gethsemene; and all the sufferings to come in the cruel series of trials leading up to the agony of the Crucifixion; whose physical torments would pale to taking on the sins of men and the wrath of God for us.
He was the suffering servant to the end mindful of others.
I would be sadly remiss if I didn't emphasize how we should fear the Lord who can send both body and soul to hell ( Matt. 10:28).
This; in my opinion should elicit a response in the souls of all true believers; as we should be ever greatful for what He did for us on the cross; taking the punishment of God the Father on Himself for our benefit.
What we can do now; however is be ambassadors for the truth; and allow God to make us vessels of reconciliation ( 2 Cor. 5:19).
We cannot save anyone; but are held responsible for the death of others if we don't sound the alarm (see Ezekiel 33). Notice there that they may or may not heed the warning.
One cannot separate the love of God for fear of the Lord; and one cannot appreciate the joys of heaven without realizing the horrors of hell they have been delivered from.
We also have to understand predestination in that regard; if we disagree on certain aspects it is clear that in the end a certain number are saved and sadly it is only "few" according to Christ Himself. ( Luke 13:23 among other verses).
Another thing which needs consideration is the reports of children being in hell. Matthew 18:10; as well as Matthew 21:16 tied to Psalm 8:2; and the testimony of David in 2 Samuel 12:23 should dispel this; there are other verses as well which I may elaborate on in a future posting. Those scenes where people seem baffled or confused as to what is happening to them isn't scriptural; and we also must ponder Hebrews 9:27; and understand that judgment comes first immediately after death (although before the Great White Throne one at the end of the Millennium). The punishment is justly given in different levels depending on the crime. I need to be careful here; but will say that punishment will be no more or less than deserved; more "tolerable" for some as in Matthew 11:22.
In conclusion; God's Word should make us tremble; the subject matter should never be looked at as entertaining.
Assurance of salvation: Focus on meaning of 1 Timothy 2:4 in light of current subject matter
The matter of Predestination becomes a thorny one on this verse. On the surface it would seem a Universalist mindset saying that all men eventually will be saved is a logical conclusion but clearly the Bible indicates otherwise. When we examine the same book in chapter 4 verse 10 we see that Christ is the Savior "especially of those who believe" which makes no sense unless we understand that He knows all who will eventually come to Him therefore in that sense while we were yet sinners; Christ died for us as we see in Romans 5:8. There are certain joys and comforts in this life as well for everyone; saved or lost to some extent; the subject being called "common grace" is a cause of no small stir among some; I would prefer to say delayed sentence.
This verse clearly is different when we understand the will of the Father toward Christ and all those predestined to come to the Lord as we see in the Book of John. There are verses in Isaiah where it states that He came to take away the sins of many ( Isaiah 53:12; also see Hebrews 9:28). It is clear also that "few will be saved" ( Luke 13:24).
The focus on much of this should be on God's method of salvation; all man centered attempts to somehow fulfill statements in the Sermon on the Mount may appeal to a humanist or even an atheist in principle; but in reality unregenerate man has no capacity to fulfill the law; let alone the deeper implications; both of omission and commission of righteousness and avoiding sins of those types as well.
His church is a part of His Body in a mystical sense but also in a very real one as well ( 1 Cor. 12:27). He purchased it or redeemed it with His blood; and this in a legally binding covenant as it were. God always keeps His end of a bargain; man on the other hand finds many schemes. Again; the key is if the Lord confesses we are His own ( Matt. 10:32).
No the Bible does not teach anywhere that belief in christ is all that is required for salvation.
It repeatedly from beginning to end continues to teach faith together with obedience to God's ten commandments are a prerequisite to salvation. Everyone in the Bible is judged according to their works. Not according to their faith. Romans 3:31
"Do we then make void the law through faith? God forbid: yea, we establish the law." 1 John 2:4
"He that saith, I know him, and keepeth not his commandments, is a liar, and the truth is not in him."
King James
Luke 18:18
"And a certain ruler asked him, saying, Good Master, what shall I do to inherit eternal life?" Luke 18:19
"And Jesus said unto him, Why callest thou me good? none is good, save one, that is, God."
Luke 18:20
"Thou knowest the commandments, Do not commit adultery, Do not kill, Do not steal, Do not bear false witness, Honour thy father and thy mother."
King James
Matthew
5
Matthew 5:17
"Think not that I am come to destroy the law, or the prophets: I am not come to destroy, but to fulfil."
King James
John
15
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." John 14:15
"If ye love me, keep my commandments."
King James
Luke
13
Luke 13:24
"Strive to enter in at the strait gate: for many, I say unto you, will seek to enter in, and shall not be able."
King James
Romans 2:6
"Who will render to every man according to his deeds:"
King JamesRevelation 22:12
"And, behold, I come quickly; and my reward is with me, to give every man according as his work shall be."
King James
There is a ton of more verses that could be attached that continue to back up truth.
The main thing is you must read the Bible for yourself because ultimately you are responsible for your own salvation. Trusting what I say or what this person says is not the way to work out your own salvation.
I believe during Jesus ministry he preached the kingdom Gospel to the lost sheep of Israel.
I also believe the kingdom message has been suspended until the Jews call upon the Lord during the Great Tribulation.
I believe this is shown in " Hosea 5:15" I will go and return to my place, till they acknowledge their offence, and seek my face: in their affliction they will seek me early.
Also Jesus quotes Psalms 118:26 in Luke 13:35.
Listen to King David beginning from verse 22 to get the context. The stone which the builders refused is become the head stone of the corner.
This is the LORD'S doing; it is marvellous in our eyes.
This is the day which the LORD hath made; we will rejoice and be glad in it.
Save now, I beseech thee, O LORD: O LORD, I beseech thee, send now prosperity.
Blessed be he that cometh in the name of the LORD: we have blessed you out of the house of the LORD. Psalms 118:22-26
In Matthew 28:18-20 Jesus commissions the Apostles to go reach all nations though their primary mission was to the Jews and Paul's was to the Gentiles.
I believe this was to bring all under the ministry of the cross for salvation apart from the kingdom message until the fulness of the Gentiles be come in.
When I read Galatians 2:9-19 it seems that Paul expects Peter and the other Jews to walk according to the Gospel of grace rather than mixing laws of the Kingdom message and the liberty of the New covenant.
Grace was preached in rituals in the OT and played out in the NT.
Grace never changed throughout the Dispensations.
However the mystery and revelation began to unfold and faith being displayed differently.
"Faith looking foward and Faith looking back as revelation was being revealed.
There's still eye opening for Israel yet to come!
This eye opening will bring in the Davidic Kingdom.
Promises will be fulfilled!
Blessings.
Luke 13:23
"Then said one unto him, Lord, are there few that be saved? And he said unto them,"
Luke 13:24
"Strive to enter in at the strait gate: for many, I say unto you, will seek to enter in, and shall not be able."
Revelation 22:14
"Blessed are they that do his commandments, that they may have right to the tree of life, and may enter in through the gates into the city."
John 10:14
"I am the good shepherd, and know my sheep, and am known of mine."
Blessings
I have another word for you today too Ruben. It says in Luke 13:22-33
Resist evil with all that you have, from now on and forever. It is best for all people, so they can stay clean. Let the song of praise break out in your heart, and shout for joy. Show the wicked that you love the Lord Jesus Christ and no other! Love you in Christ.
The concept of God allowing bad things to happen surely; as it were is on steroids today and not exactly diminishing in the Tribulation. We see verses where Christ discusses the fall of the tower of Siloam as well as the horrific experience of those killed due to Pilate's insanity ( Luke 13:1-4). Frankly I haven't heard any commentaries regarding exactly how either of these events went down although what happened to the Galileans isn't something I'm in any rush to examine further.
It is edifying in the sense that these passages show Christ was aware what was happening outside of the immediate parameters of His ministry. He used parables primarily; especially later on during His ministry with the Pharisees to bring out their hypocrisy with very specific wsys that they were "lording it" over the populus.
I already elaborated as to the overall reason for the time of Jacob's Trouble; or otherwise known to the world at large as the Tribulation. The Jews and Gentiles at that time are separately dealt with and judged as I also pointed out the other day.
Jesus wasn't playing when He mentioned coming back to rule and reign and killing His enemies ( Luke 19:27) The parables avoid specificity as to inditing any specific individual; and this is further evidenced by His silence with Pilate during his inquisition before He was crucified. He seemed to talk in the third person a lot; such is the concept of John 8:37. The same idea of course of Parables involved the righteous and blessings which are proclaimed in the "Sermon on the mount". We need to carefully examine these passages to avoid improper judgment of behaviors and attitudes of any individual "before the time" as their current state may or may not be permanent depending on if they come to faith or not. All that being said the church is to judge among its own; righteously but for the sake of jealousy for His Name and presence in the House of God.
At that time some of those present told Jesus about the Galileans whose blood Pilate had mixed with their sacrifices. 2To this He replied, "Do you think that these Galileans were worse sinners than all the other Galileans, because they suffered this fate? 3No, I tell you. But unless you repent, you too will all perish. 4Or those eighteen who were killed when the tower of Siloam collapsed on them: Do you think that they were more sinful than all the others living in Jerusalem? 5No, I tell you. But unless you repent, you too will all perish."
Continuing on the idea of prayer; we see of course that some things can't be explained. The first passage is as close as I can see to people being killed by Satanists as to what happened to the Galileans through Pilate clearly influenced by the Devil.
The second passage here shows what appears to be a "happenstance" event that killed 18 people. Jesus shows this theme of destruction coming for all unrepentant sinners either now or at the judgment immediately upon death.
More generally; we see that certain things are going to happen and no doubt this isn't exclusive to unsaved individuals. Again; however we CAN avoid certain fates if we don't have destructive lifestyles such as the Word suggests about the adulterous woman (see Ecclesiastes 7:26). The same can be said; of course of a substance abuser; gambler; etc.
I am hoping and praying our church will continue to trend toward more prayer and this will occur in more churches nationwide.
I can pretty much guarantee accelerated moves to destruction if not. We have no guarantee that our nation will even exist or in what form by the time of the Rapture and onset of the Tribulation; although it seems total destruction won't occur of any nation before that. Let us redeem the times for the days are evil. We need to continue to spread the Good News and count the cost as no doubt Christian persecution is to come after the Jews are attacked.
"And, behold, there are last which shall be first, and there are first which shall be last."
Blessings
Matthew 12:33 "Either make the tree good, and his fruit good; or else make the tree corrupt, and his fruit corrupt: for the tree is known by his fruit."
Matthew 19:16 "And, behold, one came and said unto him, Good Master, what good thing shall I do, that I may have eternal life?"
Matthew 19:17 "And he said unto him, Why callest thou me good? there is none good but one, that is, God: but if thou wilt enter into life, keep the commandments."
Exodus 20:8-11 Remember the sabbath day, to keep it holy. 9Six days shalt thou labour, and do all thy work: 10But the seventh day is the sabbath of the LORD thy God: in it thou shalt not do any work, thou, nor thy son, nor thy daughter, thy manservant, nor thy maidservant, nor thy cattle, nor thy stranger that is within thy gates: 11For in six days the LORD made heaven and earth, the sea, and all that in them is, and rested the seventh day: wherefore the LORD blessed the sabbath day, and hallowed it.
here is 3 cultivating tips to help ensure a healthy yield
1st is no cussing,crazy thoughts, etc.
its not what goes into a person that defiles, its what comes out
2nd tip is help anyone in need,you can, thru out lifes journey
3rd is Do Not Work on Sundays, means alot to God
no ground maintenance, self gain etc.perfectly fine to feed family pets livestock etc
or some one in special position
guaranteed results with these 3 simple growing techniques
In studying today's news headlines on what happened in New Orleans we see how some perished being at the wrong place and the wrong time and see a parallel to this verse. Without sounding dismissive I would emphasize that hanging out in crowds who are characterized by drinking and carousing in densely packed areas are more often apt to such a fate in part as a judgment of God.
We of course shouldn't be arrogant as to our higher moral behaviors somehow justifying us.
Another way of looking at it is if we look at the lives of such individuals say 24 hours before their passing would they seem so innocent; clearly some who die in this way are saved; others lost but the warning notwithstanding in the next verse is that without repentance we all will perish; whether now or years in the future and meet the same fate if we are unregenerated in the meantime.
Perhaps a good segway at this point is to look at the story of the wedding in Cana; and how Jesus often ate and drank with "sinners" to the point where He was accused of being a "winebibber"; or just hobnobbing with "sinners" by the self righteous Pharisees. Today it seems the family celebrations such as this are often forgotten; if not with formal weddings being abandoned we certainly don't have a feast these days too often for the wayward brother coming back home as was the case with the Prodigal son. So genuine feasts that are honorable have been replaced by self-indulgences and other vices of immorality.
Of course the outer damage the enemy inflicts is just a shadow of the spiritual warfare in the heavenly places. We see suicidal tendencies and murder inspired by another god and his instruction manual(s). The fact that this isn't considered "normal" in our nation shows in all honesty how weak the church is here today; we all need a "reality check
Matt 21:19 "And when he saw a fig tree in the way, he came to it, and found nothing thereon, but leaves only, and said unto it, Let no fruit grow on thee henceforward for ever. And presently the fig tree withered away."
This verse relates directly to Matt 24:32, because this verse is saying there were leaves only, that is, there was no fruit. In the Bible, fruit relates to salvation. We also read in Luke 13:7
"7 Then said he unto the dresser of his vineyard, Behold, these three years I come seeking fruit on this fig tree, and find none: cut it down; why cumbereth it the ground?"
Despite Jesus ministering personally to the nation of Israel for approximately three years, healing the sick and raising the dead, very few believed on him. Fact is, the spiritual rulers wanted him crucified because he dared to make himself equal with God. Therefore, Jesus cursed the fig tree, saying, "Let no fruit grow on thee henceforward for ever". This curse extends to the very present day, more than seventy years since Israel was officially reconstituted as a nation in May of 1948. That event of Israel being reconstituted as a nation identifies with the fig tree putting forth leaves in Matt 24:32, and please note, there is nothing said about fruit, only leaves.
Note that the verse says, "When his branch is yet tender, and putteth forth leaves, ye know that summer is nigh." Summer in the Bible identifies with harvest, which implies there is going to be some great activity of salvation taking place. Then in the next verse, God declares, "So likewise ye, when ye shall see all these things, know that it is near, even at the doors." By that statement God is declaring that we are presently in the end-time scenario described in Matt 24. This is because a wise man's heart shall discern both time and judgment, and because we are at that time in history when God is taking the seals off of those truths that have been kept sealed during the church age.
More in part 4
-->19 And the temple of GOD was opened in heaven(heaven? Ephesians 1:3-8), and there was seen in His temple the Ark of His Testament: and there were(will be) lightnings, and VOICES, and thunderings, and an earthquake( Revelation 16:18), and great hail.
Luke 13:29
29 And they shall come from the east, and from the west, and from the north, and from the south, and shall sit down in the Kingdom of GOD.
Come up hither, yeah, come up hither, unto every one that hath shall be given, and he shall have abundance: but from him that hath not...it will be a waste of time to want to buy now, the bridegroom has come and shut the door, the door is shut( Luke 13:25 combined with Revelation 3:7), and he that was /is ready goes in with Him to the marriage: and the door is closed-->for ever.
Lord, Lord, open to us. Oh Lord, open to us, open to us... Lord, Oh Lord ...open...
Luke 13:25-27
25 When once the Master of the house is risen up, and hath shut to the door, and ye begin to stand without, and to knock at the door, saying, Lord, Lord, open unto us; and he answers and says unto you, I know you not whence ye are:
26 And ye begin to say, We have eaten and drunk in thy presence, and thou hast taught in our streets.
Lord, Lord, open to us. Oh Lord, open to us, open to us... Lord, Oh Lord ...open...
Luke 13:5 - I tell you, Nay: but, except ye repent, ye shall all likewise perish.
Jesus says I tell you, No. And in the Greek text it's very emphatic. But, except ye repent, ye shall all likewise perish.
There are actually two words in the New Testament for repent. The main word is the word METANOEO, and it basically means to make a decision for change. It also carries with it the understanding that if you make a decision for change, you can't change yourself. You can only make the decision for change.
So, when a person repents and comes to Christ, that means they have made a decision to change the direction of their life, and they are asking the Lord to come into their life and make the changes. I can't do it. Yet God is offering a free gift in the person of Christ.
The second word METAMELOMAI, is found in Matthew 27:3. This is of Judas. He (Judas) repented, but he did not repent as in in METANOEO. The word repent used for Judas was METAMELOMAI.
METAMELOMAI means to be sorry. That is not repentance. Judas was sorry for what he did, and he went out and killed himself. That is not repentance. Repentance is when you make a decision for change, and you come to Christ, and you say I want to change the direction of my life, but I can't change it myself. The only way I can be changed is by Christ.
Luke 13:24 - Strive to enter in at the strait gate: for many, I say unto you, will seek to enter in, and shall not be able.
The word "strive" is the word AGONIDZO where we get the word agonize from. Agonize to enter in at the strait gate: for many, I say unto you, will seek to enter in, and shall not be able.
" Also they saw God, and did eat and drink."
Ex.24:11 " Also they saw God, and did eat and drink."
The superscription refers to Re.19:17. The Day of Regeneration is called the supper of God to which the blessed of God are called and it is also by invitation, as God invited Moses and a select body to 'come up unto the Lord."
Before this let us discuss this passage from the Gospel of St Luke.
Having said a parable in Ch.13 Jesus tells the Jews thus, "Then shall ye begin to say, We have eaten and drunk in thy presence, and thou hast taught in our streets," he goes on to prophesy a great gathering "And they shall come from the east, and from the west, and from the north, and from the south, and shall sit down in the kingdom of God."( Luke 13:29). Background of this is set forth in the Book of Exodus. He referred to the time the Israelites supped in the presence of God which we shall first consider. This event was by invitation and God commanded Moses,
"Come up unto the Lord, thou, and Aaron, Nadab, and Abihu, and seventy of the elders of Israel; and worship ye afar off." The Spirit is setting two days from the Day decreed for his Son. (Ps.2:6-7) So we are looking the two from the Alpha and Omega aspect of Jesus Christ.
Gospel of Salvation has its judgment upon the disobedient,and the day of Regeneration runs simultaneously. This is what new birth means. They are in the forever mode. God revealed himself first through the Law. And I will give thee tables of stone, and a law, and commandments which I have written; that thou mayest teach them." The law is compared to the face. 'The Spirit of God moved upon the face of the waters-'Ge.1:2.It has the body of heaven, "And they saw the God of Israel: and there was under his feet as it were a paved work of a sapphire stone, and as it were the body of heaven in his clearness."(24:10) "God, who at sundry times and in divers manners spake in time past unto the fathers by the prophets,
Luke 13:16 does show that this woman was bound by Satan, but it does not imply that he is responsible for all our illnesses.
In those days, it was a common philosophy among the Jews that if a person was suffering physically, it was because they have sinned or were not right with God. But this woman's physical condition was caused by a demon. This woman had a spirit of infirmity for eighteen years, and she did not have the ability to lift herself up. She walked along and she was almost bent in half and her head was down towards the ground as she was walking.
But what's important to know, and this might answer the question on if the devil is responsible for our illnesses, but not all illnesses or infirmities are caused by demons or Satan. If you remember back in John 9:1-3 about this blind man, the disciples asked, "Who sinned, this man, or his parents that he was born blind?" Jesus answered and said neither!
But you see, that was their philosophy. Their way of thinking was that the only reason that somebody suffers physically is because they have sinned or maybe their parents did, so they are suffering for it. Not all sickness and illness have to do with sin or that somebody has done something wrong. But there are specific things, especially in Jesus' day, that when a person was demonized, possessed by a demon, it also meant that the demon was holding them in prison in some kind of a physical way.
Hope this helps!
I will introduce briefly another concept which I may have mentioned in passing. That is; if we were invaded by another nation it still may not be the end; and it is possible should the Lord tarry longer than we seem to think at present that it could lead to a true revival or change of heart. Our nation's lazy work ethic has led to legions of evil because of all the free time we have accrued. Those who would survive a war would no doubt be in some sort of forced servitude; but perhaps that would help them appreciate a meal more; and any kindness. The true church would eventually arise; even from the tattered remains. Such is the case no doubt in myriad nations today as the Gospel can never be totally snuffed out.
Sadly; with the number of gun owners in this nation most people probably would die just in one on one combat. Whatever comes to pass; and as cruel as it sounds God does use calamities to SOME extent to rid the world of certain evil people. This is just as true as the fact that a disaster such as the tower at Siloam that fell didn't mean the sinners were any worse or better than anyone else; as we ALL have the same fate apart from Christ's mercy (see Luke 13:1-3). Overall; if we look at Babylon as an example God did spare some of His people and judged others with the invasion. We could have a similar fate. Nonetheless I see it as entirely plausible that we ARE Babylon; at least the economic version of it and likely could be destroyed in a day as Revelation 17 and 18 and many scriptures in Jeremiah reflect on in detail.
As a note for the present; even if the border were closed tomorrow or if it is next January this real invasion still gives us witnessing opportunities. There are innocent children and others mixed in who we should have the heart to help out; although wisdom is needed not knowing who we are dealing with. We need to stand against child sex slavery and illegal sweat shops NOW for His sake
The quote "He that believeth on him is not condemned: but he that believeth not is condemned already, because he hath not believed in the name of the only begotten Son of God." has significance because Jesus is not speaking condemnation in terms of himself. "For the Father judgeth no man, but hath committed all judgment unto the Son:"( John 5:22). But Jesus warns of his Father who shall. "But I will forewarn you whom ye shall fear: Fear him, which after he hath killed hath power to cast into hell; yea, I say unto you, Fear him." Luke 12:5). It is in this sense God warned Adam, "for in the day that thou eatest thereof thou shalt surely die."(Ge.2:17)
What does this lead to? The second death can only be explained after the redemption of man's soul. (Re.20:14) According to the Luke quote The Father has the power to cast man to hell. Those who make up the body has escaped condemnation. They belong to the new heaven and new earth. Jewish nation is cast out into the outer darkness. "There shall be weeping and gnashing of teeth, when ye shall see Abraham, and Isaac, and Jacob, and all the prophets, in the kingdom of God, and you yourselves thrust out."( Luke 13:28-29). When new earth inaugurated the earth is left for the nations. For this reason we read 'healing of the nations mentioned' (Re.22:1-2)
With the first Adam sin entered into the world so the nation that rejected Jesus, is already condemned in him. For those who believed the last Adam everlasting life. "There is therefore now no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit./For the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus hath made me free from the law of sin and death." Without Spirit guiding you have have fallen into error probably taught by imposter church and their foolish shepherds. When God says Jerusalem is like a dish turned upside down it is just that.(2 Ki.21:13-15)
The outer darkness, the earth is His footstool. Is.66:1; Ps.110:1-5
"And Jesus said unto them, Verily I say unto you, That ye which have followed me, in the regeneration when the Son of man shall sit in the throne of his glory, ye also shall sit upon twelve thrones, judging the twelve tribes of Israel." (Matt.19:28)
This is a promise of the Son which must accepted as yea . "For all the promises of God in him are yea, and in him Amen, unto the glory of God by us." (2 Co.1: 20). Everyone who suffered loss shall receive hundredfold.. The verse following the key text includes everyone so service of saints hold both civil and ecclesiastical authority."And every one that hath forsaken houses, or brethren, or sisters, or father, or mother, or wife, or children, or lands, for my name's sake, shall receive an hundredfold, and shall inherit everlasting life." The testimony of Jesus Christ revealed to John through his angel therefore includes this, "And hath made us kings and priests unto God and his Father; to him be glory and dominion for ever and ever. Amen."(Re.1:6)
So the Messianic prophesy addresses "thy people" and what does He promises his Son? "The Lord hath sworn, and will not repent, Thou art a priest for ever after the order of Melchizedek".(Ps.110:1-4). The phrase 'forever' is a tag the Spirit has placed to indicate the Son as intended. The Lord's prayer ends with this phrase and Amen refers to the faithful and true witness, the Amen of divine promises. There is no temple in the new heaven and the earth. Instead it is on the holy mountain of God, Zion "for mine house shall be called an house of prayer for all people."(Is.56:7). Israel shall be cast out into the outer darkness, "There shall be weeping and gnashing of teeth, when ye shall see Abraham, and Isaac, and Jacob, and all the prophets, in the kingdom of God, and you yourselves thrust out" ( Luke 13:28-29) By literalism of imposter churches the advocates of Israel would make the outer darkness seem lit. (2 Co.11:14-15)
"It is like a grain of mustard seed, which, when it is sown in the earth, is less than all the seeds that be in the earth."(v.31). Mark is referring to the same as intended in the Gospel of Matthew.However emphases differ. 'The little one' in Matthew is compared to a grain. It is less than all the seeds in the earth. However it is not the same when Matthew says it was "which a man took, and sowed in his field.". He refers to their position as it is set in heaven. "Take heed that ye despise not one of these little ones; for I say unto you, That in heaven their angels do always behold the face of my Father which is in heaven."(Matt.18:10). Matthew is serving the parable in terms of Jesus Christ on Alpha and Omega mode. The field is the world.(Matt.13:38)
Mark sets the parable in terms of heaven and the earth so the grain of mustard despite of its physical 'littleness" is empowered by the Spirit of God.
"t groweth up, and becometh greater than all herbs, and shooteth out great branches; so that the fowls of the air may lodge under the shadow of it."(v.32) Compare the tree in the king's dream, "the fowls of the heaven dwelt in the boughs thereof" (Dan.4:12). The shadow as the Spirit has indicated in several places signify the authority of God. For instance people brought their sick," Insomuch that they brought forth the sick into the streets, and laid them on beds and couches, that at the least the shadow of Peter passing by might overshadow some of them."(Ac.5:15) Mark is consistent in setting the Power of God casting its shadow so that the fowls of the air may under the shadow of it. "And he said, So is the kingdom of God, as if a man should cast seed into the ground;/And should sleep, and rise night and day, and the seed should spring and grow up, he knoweth not how." (4:26-27)
Luke is closer to the parable in which it is cast into his garden.( Luke 13:19)
For significance of the fowls of the heaven, Re.19:17-18)
After creating man God blessed them:" And God blessed them, and God said unto them, Be fruitful, and multiply, and replenish the earth" (Ge.1:28)", "Be fruitful" was a divine command.
(See under A-Abstract)
In the Parable of the Barren Fig Tree "Then said he unto the dresser of his vineyard, Behold, these three years I come seeking fruit on this fig tree, and find none: cut it down; why cumbereth it the ground?"( Luke 13:7). The Spirit refers to the Son with the number Three. The parable therefore is about believers, which are unproductive. The fig tree unable to produce fruits of the Spirit represents them.
In the Parable of the Sower birds eat up some seeds falling on the wayside, and some are unfruitful owing to the condition of the ground. The evil one is the destroyer that can prevent the word of God from becoming fruitful. The same destroyer is the enemy who scatters tares in a field while men slept. Deceitful riches can choke the heart, which is compared to a field. Jesus Christ was manifested to destroy the works of the devil.( 1 John 3:8)
Satan is the destroyer, whose deceit upset the order that God had created for Adam. He is also a thief who dares not come by the door. For this reason he beguiled Eve through a serpent. "The thief cometh not, but for to steal, and to kill, and to destroy."( John 10:10,1)
"And I will give unto thee the keys of the kingdom of heaven: and whatsoever thou shalt bind on earth shall be bound in heaven: and whatsoever thou shalt loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven."
Firstly we shall examine the manner Jesus used it. "And ought not this woman, being a daughter of Abraham, whom Satan hath bound, lo, these eighteen years, be loosed from this bond on the sabbath day?"( Luke 13:18). Jesus used the passkey and it is called the finger of God. In the case of Moses it was the rod with which he stumped the magicians of Egypt who said,"Then the magicians said unto Pharaoh, This is the finger of God."(Ex.8:19). Jesus explained,"But if I cast out devils by the Spirit of God, then the kingdom of God is come unto you." (12:28) Finger of God in the case of the Son is faith that establishes his paternity,- DNA is faith, and when Moses did as was commanded of God, his rod was a substitute as good as any. The key is merely a label for faith. Jesus set an example for his disciples. Whatever he loosed whether on the Sabbath day or any other on earth was loosed in heaven. Jesus also promised,"Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that believeth on me, the works that I do shall he do also; and greater works than these shall he do; because I go unto my Father."( John 14:12). The context is about the outpouring of the Holy Spirit. The indwelling Spirit shall entrust everyone, an associate to the Son who from the right hand of the Most High, and their faith is the keys of the kingdom. Literal interpretation of the passage gave false shepherds to wrest control over His flock, "Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that entereth not by the door into the sheepfold, but climbeth up some other way, the same is a thief and a robber."(John10:1) Paul and Barnabas also could bind over Elymas, "And now, behold, the hand of the Lord is upon thee, and thou shalt be blind, not seeing the sun for a season. "(Ac.13:11)
As I was reading the words of God, this morning, Luke 13:24-28
Does this not speak to all who believe that there is no overcoming of sin in this present life
" they believe they ate & drink in His presence, & believed that " He taught in our streets".
Yet, the Lord plainly states; Luke 13:27
This reminds me of Matt 7:21,22
This reveals the utter deceitfulness of sin, that Satan has no lack of power to deceive 2Thess 2:9,10
He even has such power to call fire down from heaven. Rev 13:11-16 this is describing false Christianity, listen to what the Scriptures reveal, Rev 13:11 had an image like a lamb, but spoke like a dragon. Teaching that one can be a Christian & know God & continue in sin for life, despite the testimony of Christ, John 8:24, 1John 3:6
Then we have Hebrews 10:26-29; the whole context of these Scriptures here is " sinning is past tense, over, done away with."
They pray, but they regard; Psalms 66:18; in light of the above Scriptures, who do you thing is answering their prayers?
Again, all power in all deceitfulness of unrighteousness, ,,,sin ! 2Timothy 3:5 Rev 18:4
Luke 11:33-36 the whole body be full of Light, "Christ" having no dark part, no darkness at all" Revealing "Consummation of Sanctification of the Spirit, obedience unto righteousness unto holiness, partaker's of the Divine Nature.
It also reveals, If one continue in sin for life, then it obvious that there's darkness within & Matt 6:23
Folks, I speak as one concern, I found that in life motions one can be caught up in doing this or that, the swiftness in which life is pasting by, & the world continually drawing us to it concerns, one doesn't stop & truly consider what Holy Spirit plainly states in the Scriptures or why they have not experience it,
Churches are teaching contrary to Scriptures, all are singing a lullaby; cause everybody else is doing it, some more some less, status quo, so it must be true? NOT ! 1Thessalonians 4:7
1Cor 15:34
in Love & Truth.
Just a question not to offend, just to inspire thought and study. Do you think when God placed Adam in the Garden of Eden and told Adam he could eat from every tree and fruit of the garden but one tree? God declared the end from the beginning do you think He did not know what Adam was going to do?
I am sorry, but on some subjects, I struggle to convey my understanding. To continue in sin and repentance is not what I was saying and not the way I am living. Daily repentance and obedience are not living in doubt the power of God's forgiveness. It is a daily lifestyle repentance is a way to progress in our sanctification a pattern of life to endure until the end we forsake sin daily not just one time.
It is through the repentance of all the sins we have done and the glory we give to God through the faith and obedience of Jesus Christ that we can be forgiven. Repentance is the foundation of our lives it is the beginning and the end of our life.
We can get slack, but we must every day test ourselves that we are walking in the Spirit and are striving to endure until the end and that starts with being obedient and repentant as we have been commanded to do, 1 John 1:9 Luke 13:3 Matt. 4:17 Acts 17:30. We will be absent from the presence of sin when we are glorified at our resurrection.
God bless,
RLW
The Earth and the Fulness
"The earth is the Lord's, and the fulness thereof; the world, and they that dwell therein./ For he hath founded it upon the seas, and established it upon the floods./ Who shall ascend into the hill of the Lord? or who shall stand in his holy place?"(Ps.24:1-3)
Before we take up the topic on hand we shall refresh the matter of the earth and the fulness thereof. The Lord God had intended his Son as his heir. So the fulness of Jesus Christ must be applied as to the entity and its appurtenance. It is a legal term. God established it upon the flood so when the Spirit begins the creation account he informs us, "And the Spirit of God moved upon the face of the waters."(Ge.1:2) Thus God optimize the value of his property so we can well understand the concern of the owner in the Parable of the fig tree, "So he said to the man who took care of the vineyard, 'For three years now I've been coming to look for fruit on this fig tree and haven't found any. Cut it down! Why should it use up the soil?'"( Luke 13:7-NIV) And Isaiah has dilated upon his anguish, "And now, O inhabitants of Jerusalem, and men of Judah, judge, I pray you, betwixt me and my vineyard./ What could have been done more to my vineyard, that I have not done in it? wherefore, when I looked that it should bring forth grapes, brought it forth wild grapes?" (Is.5:3-4)
God sent his prophets from time to time to the earth but the wicked husbandmen treated them vilely and killed many of them. The two witnesses signifying the worlds of the Spirit and of the earth, are presented by the Spirit. They represent from Abel to Zechariah as martyrs and many more. It is in the vein Jerusalem is represented in v.8. This is to be spiritually understood. The Earth abides forever since it belongs to the Son in whom God desired all his fullness to dwell. He is the visible image of the invisible God.
Now the account of Simon the Leper, also in Bethany, occurred very near to the Passover Feast ( Matthew 26:2). And we know this to be so, because after the woman's anointing of Jesus in Simon the Leper's home, Jesus' disciples were annoyed at the waste of this ointment, & Judas Iscariot then left them to put into effect his wicked act. And of course, Jesus then celebrates the Passover with His disciples at the appointed time. So the Lazarus (in John 11) & Simon the Leper (in Matthew 26) can't be the same person and of course it would have saddened Lazarus (& others) tremendously that he who died because of some sickness & was raised by Jesus, yet wasn't healed of his leprosy.
As well, the account of the rich man & (the other) Lazarus ( Luke 16:19-31) is understood to have happened after the Lazarus (of John 11) was raised to life, not before. A synopsis of the Gospels shows that after Jesus began His journey towards Bethany, He also ministered along the way ( Luke 13:22 to Luke 17:1-10). After this, Jesus arrives in Bethany to see the lifeless body of his friend.
23Now when he was in Jerusalem at the passover, in the feast day, many believed in his name, when they saw the miracles which he did.
24But Jesus did not commit himself unto them, because he knew all men,
25And needed not that any should testify of man: for he knew what was in man.
Just as the Son of God warned us that many would claim mighty miracles in His Name ( Matt. 7:22); not knowing Christ as a member of the Godhead kept unregenerate individuals who saw Christ Himself performing them when they ascribed it to someone who was merely a great teacher; or Prophet of God. What the Prophets couldn't do was forgive sins; which is always man's greatest need as we see from John 5:14 where a man for decades was healed from being a paralytic. In this case sin had something to do with his condition but eternal death would probably be the only thing WORSE that Christ was referring to.
Preaching about sin to enemies of God can and will cause strife and persecution. But the whole Gospel must make it clear that our spiritual condition is dead; and judgment inevitable until we are saved; and that only comes through Christ's atonement removing out sins. The Pharisees themselves were looking for signs; even at the cross He was mocked and challenged to save Himself as though He was under the control of those who crucified Him. The concept of setting someone free was overshadowed by the Pharisees tenacious grasp on the law and their many additions of "working on the Sabbath Day" ( Luke 13:16). The crowds wanted free bread and fish; or to be caught up in the acction of the moment; with only a few truly being disciples; worshipping Him; and giving up all for following Him. Matthew 2:7 shows how Herod pretended to want to worship the Christ child; such is the same sort of concept of those who tried to trap Him with questions later on ( Luke 11:53-54). Others only wanted Him to rule as King; which will happen in the Millennium ( John 6:15).
When we see TEN chapters of Luke encompassing the last few days of Christ's life taking up more than a third of the text in the entire book; and similar patterns in all the Gospels; the magnitude of the narrative is exponentially ratched up in terms of the stress on the Messiah; the amount of challenges; as well as the increase in variety of things preached; rebukes to the Pharisees; etc.
I think it is good to ponder on this reality carefully. Christ had already had numerous (some say 10) attempts at being killed at this point; whether attempting to throw Him off a cliff; or stoning as the most popular methodology. He knew through Divine wisdom that He was destined to die at Calvary; thus any earlier attempts to kill Him would be in vain. Nonetheless; He certainly didn't seek to take a break before facing the inevitable-until Gethsemane when He sweat drops of blood and undoutably had angelic strengthening in what was a battle of life and death according to scripture. God would later use others to help carry the cross when His strength failed.
Turning to the ministry with His Disciples; He would at this time emphasize the prophecy of future events (as seen in Matthew 24 for instance). Up until the end; it seemed the Disciples didn't get it as to His need to die (as evidenced by the account of Peter striking the ear of the High Priest when the soldiers came). He also had to deal with the rapid decay from the triumphal entry with the donkey and the "Hosanna's" from the crowd to the rapid shift to "crucify Him" just a week later. He had the betrayal of Judas Iscariot (prophesied in Psalm 41:9); the abandonment of all the Disciples in Gethsemene; and all the sufferings to come in the cruel series of trials leading up to the agony of the Crucifixion; whose physical torments would pale to taking on the sins of men and the wrath of God for us.
He was the suffering servant to the end mindful of others.
I would be sadly remiss if I didn't emphasize how we should fear the Lord who can send both body and soul to hell ( Matt. 10:28).
This; in my opinion should elicit a response in the souls of all true believers; as we should be ever greatful for what He did for us on the cross; taking the punishment of God the Father on Himself for our benefit.
What we can do now; however is be ambassadors for the truth; and allow God to make us vessels of reconciliation ( 2 Cor. 5:19).
We cannot save anyone; but are held responsible for the death of others if we don't sound the alarm (see Ezekiel 33). Notice there that they may or may not heed the warning.
One cannot separate the love of God for fear of the Lord; and one cannot appreciate the joys of heaven without realizing the horrors of hell they have been delivered from.
We also have to understand predestination in that regard; if we disagree on certain aspects it is clear that in the end a certain number are saved and sadly it is only "few" according to Christ Himself. ( Luke 13:23 among other verses).
Another thing which needs consideration is the reports of children being in hell. Matthew 18:10; as well as Matthew 21:16 tied to Psalm 8:2; and the testimony of David in 2 Samuel 12:23 should dispel this; there are other verses as well which I may elaborate on in a future posting. Those scenes where people seem baffled or confused as to what is happening to them isn't scriptural; and we also must ponder Hebrews 9:27; and understand that judgment comes first immediately after death (although before the Great White Throne one at the end of the Millennium). The punishment is justly given in different levels depending on the crime. I need to be careful here; but will say that punishment will be no more or less than deserved; more "tolerable" for some as in Matthew 11:22.
In conclusion; God's Word should make us tremble; the subject matter should never be looked at as entertaining.
The matter of Predestination becomes a thorny one on this verse. On the surface it would seem a Universalist mindset saying that all men eventually will be saved is a logical conclusion but clearly the Bible indicates otherwise. When we examine the same book in chapter 4 verse 10 we see that Christ is the Savior "especially of those who believe" which makes no sense unless we understand that He knows all who will eventually come to Him therefore in that sense while we were yet sinners; Christ died for us as we see in Romans 5:8. There are certain joys and comforts in this life as well for everyone; saved or lost to some extent; the subject being called "common grace" is a cause of no small stir among some; I would prefer to say delayed sentence.
This verse clearly is different when we understand the will of the Father toward Christ and all those predestined to come to the Lord as we see in the Book of John. There are verses in Isaiah where it states that He came to take away the sins of many ( Isaiah 53:12; also see Hebrews 9:28). It is clear also that "few will be saved" ( Luke 13:24).
The focus on much of this should be on God's method of salvation; all man centered attempts to somehow fulfill statements in the Sermon on the Mount may appeal to a humanist or even an atheist in principle; but in reality unregenerate man has no capacity to fulfill the law; let alone the deeper implications; both of omission and commission of righteousness and avoiding sins of those types as well.
His church is a part of His Body in a mystical sense but also in a very real one as well ( 1 Cor. 12:27). He purchased it or redeemed it with His blood; and this in a legally binding covenant as it were. God always keeps His end of a bargain; man on the other hand finds many schemes. Again; the key is if the Lord confesses we are His own ( Matt. 10:32).
It repeatedly from beginning to end continues to teach faith together with obedience to God's ten commandments are a prerequisite to salvation. Everyone in the Bible is judged according to their works. Not according to their faith. Romans 3:31
"Do we then make void the law through faith? God forbid: yea, we establish the law." 1 John 2:4
"He that saith, I know him, and keepeth not his commandments, is a liar, and the truth is not in him."
King James
Luke 18:18
"And a certain ruler asked him, saying, Good Master, what shall I do to inherit eternal life?" Luke 18:19
"And Jesus said unto him, Why callest thou me good? none is good, save one, that is, God."
Luke 18:20
"Thou knowest the commandments, Do not commit adultery, Do not kill, Do not steal, Do not bear false witness, Honour thy father and thy mother."
King James
Matthew
5
Matthew 5:17
"Think not that I am come to destroy the law, or the prophets: I am not come to destroy, but to fulfil."
King James
John
15
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." John 14:15
"If ye love me, keep my commandments."
King James
Luke
13
Luke 13:24
"Strive to enter in at the strait gate: for many, I say unto you, will seek to enter in, and shall not be able."
King James
Romans 2:6
"Who will render to every man according to his deeds:"
King JamesRevelation 22:12
"And, behold, I come quickly; and my reward is with me, to give every man according as his work shall be."
King James
There is a ton of more verses that could be attached that continue to back up truth.
The main thing is you must read the Bible for yourself because ultimately you are responsible for your own salvation. Trusting what I say or what this person says is not the way to work out your own salvation.
This is some passages I clearly overlooked!
Luke 13:23-24.
Then said one unto him, Lord, are there few that be saved? And he said unto them,
Strive to enter in at the strait gate: for many, I say unto you, will seek to enter in, AND SHALL NOT BE ABLE.
There's no way to spin this towards a universal salvation.
God bless.