There's 2 states that we may attain in this life, 1st, is to be brought back to the innocents of Eden before the fall, where we're yet capable of falling, if were not steadfastly abiding in Him. Jn 15:5; 1Jn 3:6; the fruit mention here is that of His Spirit, the Divine Nature, & good works naturally follows.
2nd state is to be brought into the state in Christ, who never fell, though He was tempted, being tempted is not a sin. This life is explained in Rom 6:2-8; Eph 2:6; Jn 17:21-24; Luke 6:40; the high calling of God in Christ Jesus, to be experience here & now.
Paul in Gal 1:3; 2 Cor 1:2 was speaking from the Presence of God, He was phyically on earth, but His consciousness was in His Presence, Eph 6:20
This is impossibility as long as we remain sinners.
As one reads God's words; 1Jn 3:3-5, 9,10; Col 1:22; Holy Spirit creates a desire, an expectation to actually experience what the writers of the Scriptures possessed & lived. This standard of perfection/holiness that Jesus commands in Matt 5:48; is declared as the same of the Father. He as a loving Father has provided the Way & the Means to attain it & that through His Son, His Spirit of Grace / Light
At my present measure, I'm in the 1st state; What God requires of us all is to walk according to the Truth that we know, & as we abide in Him through the 1 Pet 1:7-9; we grow in Grace & more Light is given unto us; Pro 4:18 & this perfection can be added too 2 Cor 4:6,7; Salvation is not instant, Heb 5:9; 9:28; Rom 10:10; the words "unto salvation"; denotes a progressive work of sanctification of the Spirit unto obedience, & there's a mighty work of the Spirit to be wrought in cleansing out the temple of all the foul guest that has inhabit us in the times of our alienation....
Ephesians 6:12-19. Dear God the Father in heaven, You who have created everything. You who have said You Are, and are always with us, in the kingdom of the Holy Ghost. We exalt You Jesus who made this possible for us to be close to You. We pray in Your holy name for our brother Jeff. May You master see him and we say in Your name to the powers and authorities that it is Jesus who is master of everything and see Luke 6:5. Nothing can destroy us, we will always be Yours. No matter what happens. We belong to You. Nothing can harm us forever! All destructive spirits must now give way to Your holy name Jesus. We cast the sick obscene spirit into the deepest darkness. Come never back. In Jesus holy name, we forbid you and harass Jeff anymore. Jesus did all the work on Golgata, in His holy blood we are solved Romans 2 chapter, Amen.
All day long in all kind of sufferings we need to proclaime Gods Word. Never give up hope and He will be with u always. Love u in Christ Jeff Dinowitz and if we dont meet in this life, we meet in whats comming.
Taking on a responsibility such as witnessing means that we are tested with patience; no doubt. I have found it equally helpful for fellowship among believers as some are more gifted for teaching scriptures; others with a word of encouragement; others in prayer. Conversations among the brethren sometimes are deliberately planned to elicit a response. I prefer just discussing the Lord and whatever comes up; although one has to focus on the task at hand.
Prayer for one another under those circumstances is certainly helpful as some are cursed out or mistreated and certainly can use that support.
Of course love and that of Agape for the Lord should be evident in our attitudes as well as the messages which is the first of many fruits mentioned in Galatians 5:22-23. Joy is something that I tend to be lacking in expression myself; and that is the second attribute mentioned. We rejoice in seeing the Lord's work done; even if we have a day like Noah when no one repents.
It is declaring His Kingdom and bringing honor and glory to the Lord which should be what is foremost on our mind. Then; if there is backlash and persecution we are steadfast in focusing on Him; much like Stephen in the Book of Acts.
Luke 6:30 indicates giving to those who ask and the next verse indicates to do as you would have others do to you. We wouldn't give an alcoholic money for drinking in good concience and it isn't going to help a swindler to give money all the time.
We won't always know immediately about such individuals but some make it pretty clear. Wisdom has to be used and there is some difference in opinion as to how much we give; but a willingness to give must be part of witnessing when we are able; unless the Lord has made it clear otherwise.
The community from the few who are actively witnessing encourages fervent prayer; and consistency will bear fruit ( Isaiah 55:11). May we seek to join such laborers in the harvest.
This is my understanding of the re-birth experience - when the Holy Spirit comes in to reside, the life must change completely & irrevocably - if that doesn't happen (& the person will know it, if truthful), then that re-birth claim is spurious, thus giving way to many deceived but 'religious' persons in the Church.
Acts 19:1-7. I've understood those disciples to be ones of Jesus, not John (sorry if I misled you in this). We know that Jesus had many disciples, not just the twelve ( Luke 6:13; Luke 10:1), so these twelve in Ephesus may well be counted amongst those who believed that Jesus was the Messiah & attended to Him whenever they could. The disciples that Paul met were only baptized by John (not in his name but by him, hence called John's baptism). They never heard of the Holy Spirit, because under John's baptism, that wasn't necessary - they received his baptism pointing towards repentance & the Savior. And why should they be baptized first & then receive the Holy Spirit? In this formation of the Church, we do read of the Holy Spirit being given after the laying on of hands (here in Acts 19:6; Acts 8:13-17), so evidently, water baptism can precede reception of the Holy Spirit in those days. So, at that time, they seemed to be separate events, but today the Holy Spirit is received by true repentance & faith in Christ ( Romans 10:9,10). As Paul stated, salvation comes by confession & believing - and in my understanding, salvation can only happen by the Work of the Holy Spirit within the person. Onto Page 3.
The laws regarding tzedakah, Giving, are God's secret, reinforcing all the other scriptures regarding The Laws of Giving. Luke 6:38 reaffirms.
Luke 6:38 Give, and it shall be given unto you; good measure, pressed down, and shaken together, and running over, shall men give into your bosom. For with the same measure that ye mete withal it shall be measured to you again.
This principle is primarily used in context for tithes, but it is much larger, as Luke, Jesus, Job & multiplicities of scriptures affirm, reaffirm, repetitiously, as to make the point on wooden heads.
Job outlines tzedakah more in this one chapter than any other in the Bible. Justice and righteousness are inseparable. The Hebrew root tzedak. Can't have one without the other. The heart reveals where we are at in our relationship with God. It is a blessing to give. We'll not be taking anything material with us to the other side.
The poor widow gave ALL she had. That is so powerful. Juxtapose the priests' tithe, mint, an invasive weed. As a tzedakah gardener, I have to laugh at the priests' tithe, lol. One could do two individual, whole sermons, one on the widow, another on the priests' gift, lol. Funny, yet no so funny.
It is a travesty of justice and righteousness that some Christian theologians hides this abundance from the masses, effectively stealing our birthright to G-d's abundance.
The Laws of Giving are the same as all of G-d's universal laws, set into motion at the Creation. The more one gives away, think not strictly in terms of $$-there are multiplicities of facets of Giving, the more one's cup is shaken, then pressed down, then overflowing. God's blessings cannot be constrained! It's a dynamic of His Laws regarding the Laws of Giving.
Caution: give with a pure heart however, seeking only to bless another, without accolades, acknowledgement, preferably anonymously, if possible. This keeps ego in check.
Are you hungry ?Are you thirsty? I hope so , I'm starving and never feel full ! I always want more ! Throughout the old testament we are told that God will provide us with food and drink , is that really physical food and drink or is it a promise of...the Bible itself ? I'm not great at tying things together so I hope these verses are ok , they say what I want to much better than I ever could , Matthew 4:4 , Matthew 5:6 and also 15-26 , Luke 6:21-25 , John 6:35 , Isaiah 9:13-20 also 29:7-24 , all of Ch 32 , 49:5-10 , 65:11-25 , all of Ch 66. Psalm 106:15 , also 107:1-15+31-37 and all of 146 . The Bible is the LIVING WORD , it is what sustains us , feeds us and waters us as we wander in this wilderness towards our promised destination .
The basic situation in this world is that man is under the bondage of the law ( Romans 3:19-20; also see Galatians). Therefore; the universal application of the old covenant of works essentially is expected for all who wish to come to the one true faith. Christ; of course has allowed us to be "grafted in" to the promises of Israel. We see this in the second half of Romans 13.
We have been called and chosen to be God's children. Nonetheless; we are just as required to follow the stipulations of Christ; namely loving God and obeying His commandments. ( John 14:21). Our love; of course only comes from the Lord; as any who love the law of God ( Psalm 119). The flesh abhors the law as it cannot obey it.
The church therefore; once again doesn't sign any paperwork with God but is held accountable to God's terms for calling themselves a believer. Greater punishment for those who have knowledge of the law is seen in Matthew 11:21 and the following verses. This is why churches that want signed agreements as to membership requirements aren't a failsafe method. God isn't fooled by those who say "Lord, Lord" but don't do what He says. ( Luke 6:46). God knows man's heart and that is what He gets to the bottom of in terms of man's attitudes and actions which is the focus of the New Testament and new covenant as the Lord Himself explained and of course is further discussed in the Epistles. We should be careful not to call ourselves Christians if we are not; it is better not to know the truth than to follow Christ in this way ( 2 Peter 2:21). We see the two classes of people who are either unbelievers or reprobate in many scriptures. More on that later.
Luke 6:30 is part of a section ( Luke 6:27-38) that deals with the conduct of life, our attitude toward other people. There are 13 things that are mentioned in this section and Verse 30 is one of those things.
Here is what I see in Verse 30:
It says give to everyone that asks you, everyone! And of him that takes away thy goods do not ask them back again.
Now wait a minute! If you take my things, where does that leave me? I mean that makes me a little angry. Well, if they take away my things, what have I lost? My things!
It's interesting how the Lord helps us work things out when we accumulate too much of the world, and He allows the world to take it away through the various means. Please don't ask for it back. Don't fight for it. It was taken away for a reason!
Matthew 6, Luke 4:40, Matthew 12:15, Luke 6:19, Psalms 139, Psalms 107:20, Matthew 15:30, Luke 9:11, Matthew 4:24, Matthew 14:14, Mark 6:13, Acts 5:6, Acts 14:9, Matthew 10:8, Mark 16:17,18, John 16:23, Luke 11:9-11, context Luke 11:2-13, James 5:13-20,
Hopefully these are helpful & encouraging & healing to you, that you likewise will help others Matthew 10:8,
I brought up previously about an answered prayer for a brother finding a wife. There could be times when someone is asking for something and considering plans that you can clearly see is NOT God's will; or feel led to pray the opposite. This probably wouldn't go so well if you spell it out under those circumstances. Certain imprecatory prayers as David had aren't necessarily wrong; but obviously it should be kept under wraps. I would also say that prayer in the closet could involve those in the underground church where a small group keeps in private as well. The example of Jesus praying for Peter when He knew that Satan was about to mess with him also was case specific and not shared until the appropriate time. I am sure He knew this all along; so that this prayer could have been made for a while or any number of times. There are no other prayers listed discussed with the Apostles; but Christ spent an entire night in prayer before He chose them ( Luke 6:12). This was revealed to Luke; we don't know who else (not sure about other Gospel writers). His prayer also along with fasting was private before casting the dumb spirit out of the boy ( Matt. 17:21). So there is much to be learned in the Gospels about "proactive prayer" and preparation before ministering. This is effective before and after evangelism as well; from the experiences I have had and others.
We certainly don't need to be praying in front of everyone for more money. I have seen evidences of that providence by missionaries who recieved funds within a day; for instance for a new building; and the Lord has been faithful in my life as well.
It isn't wrong of course even to accept someone's help after a request is made; but don't expect my contributions to any preachers that say they will die or something if we don't send them money like a certain famous now deceased preacher whose name I will leave to the imagination.
Here we are a New Year is here so before its to late ask Jesus into your Heart & do it from a heavenly standard not from a worldly way if you understand where im coming from you have to be completely tired of trying to do it on your own tell Jesus Christ that you are sorry and that you would like to be his complete vessle and REPENT out of the fact that you have hurt our father in heaven dont be sorry to your parents,kids,wife,boss,dogg etc none of that matters be sorry unto our LORD IN HEAVEN FATHER,SON,& THE HOLY SPIRIT if you do this and mean it with your complete heart GOD WILL SHOW YOU THINGS THAT YOU CANT EVEN FATHOM GOD BLESS THE WORLD LOVE JESUS
Hello Peggy. You could look up the following Scriptures on Jesus Christ's Deity (i.e. God's fullness found in Jesus ( Colossians 2:9) & in His Holy Spirit). Jesus' Deity is proved by:
a. His Names: Hebrews 1:8, John 20:28 (God); Matthew 16:16, Matthew 26:61-65 (the Son of God); Matthew 22:41-46 (Lord); Revelation 19:13 (Word of God); Revelation 19:16 (King of kings and Lord of lords).
b. His Characteristics: Matthew 28:18 (Omnipotence: all powerful); Luke 6:8, John 2:24,25, John 13:11 (Omniscience: all knowing); Matthew 18:20 (Omnipresence: present in any place); John 1:4 (Life); John 14:6 (Truth); Hebrews 13:8 (Immutability: unchanging); 1 Timothy 3:16, John 1:1-14 (God manifest in the flesh in Jesus).
c. His Works: John 1:3, Colossians 1:16 (creates); Colossians 1:17 (sustains); Luke 7:48,49 (forgives sin); John 11:41-44 (raises the dead); John 5:27 (judges); John 15:26 (sends the Holy Spirit).
d. His receiving Worship: Hebrews 1:6 (from angels); Revelation 5:11-13 (from other heavenly beings); Matthew 14:33 (from men); Philippians 2:10 (from all).
e. His equality within the Triune God: John 14:23, John 10:30-33 (with the Father); Matthew 28:19, 2 Corinthians 13:14 (with the Father and the Spirit).
I hope you can see from these few Scriptures that Jesus was not just a special Man or Prophet sent by God, but truly was "God manifested in the flesh". No other man before Jesus' coming, during, or after His leaving this Earth, could ever fully reflect God's Glory, Wisdom & Power. Only God could - and He did this by sending us His Word, made Him a Man, so that He could give His Life as full payment for our sins - but only to those who believe this & place their trust in Him. To some, the 'Trinity' teaching is abominable. But man's salvation depends on the Divine Person of the Lord Jesus Christ - that God could accept no other Sacrifice to redeem & secure people to Himself - only by giving fully of Himself, which is true love for all.
Maybe you have been thinking about a brighter future in this life . Maybe you need to look to the next life and not so much this one . You must see that this world is full of people and people are sinners . Most of the people with power in this world are not Christians . They are interested in the pleasures of this life . We have to be different to them and set our hearts on the next life , when we will be with our Saviour . That's better than anything this life can offer . Christians have lots to look forward to but this life isn't where we shall find peace and happiness . If we were of this world then this world would love us , did this world love Jesus ? No it did not . We must be dead to this world and alive in Christ . This world is nothing to us and we are nothing to it and that's exactly how it should be .
The world hated Jesus first. I'm really concerned about the world currently, because people are exchanging truth for lies as the shinier more appealing object of their affection. Truth seems unpopular in current times- this is hard to see unfold as I used to have hope for a brighter future.
Hi James. You may care to do a search for "The Hatred of the World by Tim Beerman". He gives an extensive outline with many Scriptures that may assist you in your prayerful consideration of this subject.
yes. Iam preparing a sermon on Sunday and looking for bible references and other sources that would be of assistance in developing the sermon on "Facing the world hatred".
Hope everything is going well with you. In comments recently KJBO Admin put new messages about updates, they asked for additional suggestions. I would reply to that thread. They're usually quick to respond. There is also a Link they usually have in that comment to reply to if you'd rather reply that way.
Btw._. I thought I'd take the opportunity to explain why I rarely reply back on the threads. One comment you made a while back addressed your feelings when not being replied back to, during discussion. Usually the original Thread is a new person asking a question & I personally wouldn't want different conversations going on in a chat if I was seeking a GODly answer from scripture. Luke 6:31, especially if new in scripture. My other reasoning is: if I do not feel my additional reply will edify, I usually will not. 1Thessalonians 5:11, Romans 14:19, 1Corinthians 10:23, finally because our comments are up & posted for all the literal World to see, read & return to: 2Corinthians 3:2, I am trying to treat GOD's Word & my opportunity to serve Him faithfully with the utmost respect & honor, therefore I do try to hold my tongue & keep my personal opinions mostly out of my posts. John 5:44,
I definitely have not meant my lack of responses as disrespect, on the contrary it is usually out of respect I have kept quiet. As per also site comment guidelines.
That's all true Adam, we've redefining holiness and worship, and excused disobedience.
This will cause many to be deceived. Matthew 7:22-23. says "MANY".
That should cause us to examine ourselves to see if we are in the faith.
I like the way Paul put it in
2 Corinthians 13:5. You notice whereit says "how that Jesus Christ is in you, except ye be reprobates?"
( He's saying IF Christ is in you you WILL perform a certain way.)
2 Corinthians 3:3-5 Forasmuch as ye are manifestly declared to be the epistle of Christ ministered by us, written not with ink, BUT WITH THE SPIRIT OF THE LIVING GOD;
( not in tables of stone,) BUT IN FLESHY TABLES OF THE HEART.
And such trust have we through Christ to God-ward:
Not that we are sufficient of ourselves to think any thing as of ourselves; BUT OUR SUFFICIENCY IS OF GOD;
God Lords over our hearts. Him IN us is manifested in our walk.
I believe that is what the Lord is saying in this rhetorical question in Luke 6:46 "And why call ye me, Lord, Lord, and do not the things which I say?"
If he is your Lord he put his spirit inside you to perform his will!
We've been sanctified Positionally.
( Given an atonement).
We are being sanctified practically.
(Growing in grace and quickened by the Spirit. ) This is our walk.
Worship is in truth and in spirit. It's not a hobby!
When we're passing out God's word we're not going to be correct all the time but we should hold it dear to our heart and be cautious to not treat it like a conversation at a round table.
Neither will we find our walk perfect but the desire to be perfect should be there.
There has to be conviction in your heart. Not pride or glory seeking. There has to be a denial of self! Not man pleasers.
It's joy being redeemed but it's not a game!
It's not doing our best. Our best isn't good enough.
It's accepting God's best. His son Jesus Christ.
It's his ability to sanctify us is where we stand.
Hello Neville. I tend to understand this verse as referring to those who are contrite, even broken, in their spirit. Maybe because of their circumstances in life, hardships, trials and so forth, they have nothing to boast about or revel in, but their spirits are brought into a correct attitude about life & their need of real help. Any material blessing would only temporarily make life easier but when the spirit reaches out & longs for that which really satisfies, God will readily meet their need.
Luke 6:20 reads as, "Blessed be ye poor: for yours is the kingdom of God". And Luke 4:18, Jesus quoting from Isaiah about Himself, "The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, because he hath anointed me to preach the gospel to the poor...". Whether in spiritual poverty or lacking in worldly goods, even having a spirit that is contrite before God, Jesus came to minister to these folk, that through their poverty & spiritual need they would ultimately be blessed; and post-crucifixion & the Work of the Holy Spirit, these are the broken spirits that will be affected and moved towards the Lord's Salvation.
Question: Who here can tell me what Jesus meant when He said " And unto him that smiteth thee on the one cheek offer also the other; and him that taketh away thy cloke forbid not to take thy coat also." in Luke 6:29
When we observe professing Christians; there are many clues as to whether they are "fruit producers" or not. This could be more adequately explained by comparing all "professors" of the faith to those "possessors" of the Holy Spirit. Here are some helpful verses to examine ourselves as well as get some clues as to where others are spiritually.
"He chastises everyone He loves." ( Heb. 12:6). Those of us who have been truly walking the straight and narrow know better than to glibly pray for something like patience. To freely embrace a verse like James 1:2 where we are told to "consider it all joy" when various trials/temptations come pass need to trust the Lord that He knows how to work all circumstances for the good OF THOSE WHO LOVE GOD (and called according to His purpose: Romans 8:28). This is the best way we can distinguish who is in the faith; those who truly understand not only that their sins have been forgiven; but they have a new Lord; Savior AND master. His sheep hear His voice; they may go astray for a time but the Chief Shephard brings in the lost 1 from the 99. ( Luke 15:4).
"if you love me you will obey my commandments." ( John 14:15). This verse may seem to contradict the ones where people were doing all sorts of "good works" in His name but were not His sheep ( Matt. 7:21-23). This is a caution to anyone who would have a ministry based on their own name; or type of gifting and certainly for the prosperity gospel leadership. We saw the same self-righteous religion with the Pharisees. Judas Iscariot is a pathetic example who was somehow convinced to betray Christ for 30 pieces of silver; apparently 4 days wages at that time although it would show silver vastly more valuable then compared to today's valuation. It was the seduction of power; then which Satan used to draw him in; thus the verse The admonitions of Luke 6:26 and Luke 16:15 serve aw warnings for those loving praise of men over praise of God.
And Simon Peter answered and said, THOU ART THE CHRIST, THE SON OF THE LIVING GOD. Matthew 16:15-16
Ephesians 2:19-20 Now therefore ye are no more strangers and foreigners, but fellowcitizens with the saints, and of the household of God;
And are built upon the FOUNDATION OF THE APOSTLES AND PROPHETS, Jesus Christ himself being the chief CORNER STONE;
In Luke 6:13 we see that Jesus chose who he would name Apostles.
"And when it was day, he called unto him his disciples: and of them he chose twelve, whom also he named apostles;
The question is when did the disciples start operating in the office of Apostles?
When was the foundation laid?
1 Corinthians 3:12 Now if any man build upon this foundation gold, silver, precious stones, wood, hay, stubble;
Are we capable of building with gold, silver and precious stone without the dwelling of the Holyspirit?
We do know in Matthew 28:16-17 even after Jesus resurrected the disciples still doubted.
"Then the eleven disciples went away into Galilee, into a mountain where Jesus had appointed them.
And when they saw him, they worshipped him: but some doubted."
In Matthew 28:18-20 Jesus commissioned them to go out to all the world but not to depart from Jerusalem until they were filled with the Holyspirit.
Acts 1:4-5. Luke 24:49.
I believe not until they were filled with the Spirit that rock the church was built on begun. The disciples began to function in the office as Apostles.
Ephesians 4:10-12. He that descended is the same also that ascended up far above all heavens, that he might fill all things.)
AND HE GAVE SOME, APOSTLES; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers;
For the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ:
Hi Chris
I welcome your interest in my question;
There's 2 states that we may attain in this life, 1st, is to be brought back to the innocents of Eden before the fall, where we're yet capable of falling, if were not steadfastly abiding in Him. Jn 15:5; 1Jn 3:6; the fruit mention here is that of His Spirit, the Divine Nature, & good works naturally follows.
2nd state is to be brought into the state in Christ, who never fell, though He was tempted, being tempted is not a sin. This life is explained in Rom 6:2-8; Eph 2:6; Jn 17:21-24; Luke 6:40; the high calling of God in Christ Jesus, to be experience here & now.
Paul in Gal 1:3; 2 Cor 1:2 was speaking from the Presence of God, He was phyically on earth, but His consciousness was in His Presence, Eph 6:20
This is impossibility as long as we remain sinners.
As one reads God's words; 1Jn 3:3-5, 9,10; Col 1:22; Holy Spirit creates a desire, an expectation to actually experience what the writers of the Scriptures possessed & lived. This standard of perfection/holiness that Jesus commands in Matt 5:48; is declared as the same of the Father. He as a loving Father has provided the Way & the Means to attain it & that through His Son, His Spirit of Grace / Light
At my present measure, I'm in the 1st state; What God requires of us all is to walk according to the Truth that we know, & as we abide in Him through the 1 Pet 1:7-9; we grow in Grace & more Light is given unto us; Pro 4:18 & this perfection can be added too 2 Cor 4:6,7; Salvation is not instant, Heb 5:9; 9:28; Rom 10:10; the words "unto salvation"; denotes a progressive work of sanctification of the Spirit unto obedience, & there's a mighty work of the Spirit to be wrought in cleansing out the temple of all the foul guest that has inhabit us in the times of our alienation....
All day long in all kind of sufferings we need to proclaime Gods Word. Never give up hope and He will be with u always. Love u in Christ Jeff Dinowitz and if we dont meet in this life, we meet in whats comming.
Taking on a responsibility such as witnessing means that we are tested with patience; no doubt. I have found it equally helpful for fellowship among believers as some are more gifted for teaching scriptures; others with a word of encouragement; others in prayer. Conversations among the brethren sometimes are deliberately planned to elicit a response. I prefer just discussing the Lord and whatever comes up; although one has to focus on the task at hand.
Prayer for one another under those circumstances is certainly helpful as some are cursed out or mistreated and certainly can use that support.
Of course love and that of Agape for the Lord should be evident in our attitudes as well as the messages which is the first of many fruits mentioned in Galatians 5:22-23. Joy is something that I tend to be lacking in expression myself; and that is the second attribute mentioned. We rejoice in seeing the Lord's work done; even if we have a day like Noah when no one repents.
It is declaring His Kingdom and bringing honor and glory to the Lord which should be what is foremost on our mind. Then; if there is backlash and persecution we are steadfast in focusing on Him; much like Stephen in the Book of Acts.
Luke 6:30 indicates giving to those who ask and the next verse indicates to do as you would have others do to you. We wouldn't give an alcoholic money for drinking in good concience and it isn't going to help a swindler to give money all the time.
We won't always know immediately about such individuals but some make it pretty clear. Wisdom has to be used and there is some difference in opinion as to how much we give; but a willingness to give must be part of witnessing when we are able; unless the Lord has made it clear otherwise.
The community from the few who are actively witnessing encourages fervent prayer; and consistency will bear fruit ( Isaiah 55:11). May we seek to join such laborers in the harvest.
This is my understanding of the re-birth experience - when the Holy Spirit comes in to reside, the life must change completely & irrevocably - if that doesn't happen (& the person will know it, if truthful), then that re-birth claim is spurious, thus giving way to many deceived but 'religious' persons in the Church.
Acts 19:1-7. I've understood those disciples to be ones of Jesus, not John (sorry if I misled you in this). We know that Jesus had many disciples, not just the twelve ( Luke 6:13; Luke 10:1), so these twelve in Ephesus may well be counted amongst those who believed that Jesus was the Messiah & attended to Him whenever they could. The disciples that Paul met were only baptized by John (not in his name but by him, hence called John's baptism). They never heard of the Holy Spirit, because under John's baptism, that wasn't necessary - they received his baptism pointing towards repentance & the Savior. And why should they be baptized first & then receive the Holy Spirit? In this formation of the Church, we do read of the Holy Spirit being given after the laying on of hands (here in Acts 19:6; Acts 8:13-17), so evidently, water baptism can precede reception of the Holy Spirit in those days. So, at that time, they seemed to be separate events, but today the Holy Spirit is received by true repentance & faith in Christ ( Romans 10:9,10). As Paul stated, salvation comes by confession & believing - and in my understanding, salvation can only happen by the Work of the Holy Spirit within the person. Onto Page 3.
The laws regarding tzedakah, Giving, are God's secret, reinforcing all the other scriptures regarding The Laws of Giving. Luke 6:38 reaffirms.
Luke 6:38 Give, and it shall be given unto you; good measure, pressed down, and shaken together, and running over, shall men give into your bosom. For with the same measure that ye mete withal it shall be measured to you again.
This principle is primarily used in context for tithes, but it is much larger, as Luke, Jesus, Job & multiplicities of scriptures affirm, reaffirm, repetitiously, as to make the point on wooden heads.
Job outlines tzedakah more in this one chapter than any other in the Bible. Justice and righteousness are inseparable. The Hebrew root tzedak. Can't have one without the other. The heart reveals where we are at in our relationship with God. It is a blessing to give. We'll not be taking anything material with us to the other side.
The poor widow gave ALL she had. That is so powerful. Juxtapose the priests' tithe, mint, an invasive weed. As a tzedakah gardener, I have to laugh at the priests' tithe, lol. One could do two individual, whole sermons, one on the widow, another on the priests' gift, lol. Funny, yet no so funny.
It is a travesty of justice and righteousness that some Christian theologians hides this abundance from the masses, effectively stealing our birthright to G-d's abundance.
The Laws of Giving are the same as all of G-d's universal laws, set into motion at the Creation. The more one gives away, think not strictly in terms of $$-there are multiplicities of facets of Giving, the more one's cup is shaken, then pressed down, then overflowing. God's blessings cannot be constrained! It's a dynamic of His Laws regarding the Laws of Giving.
Caution: give with a pure heart however, seeking only to bless another, without accolades, acknowledgement, preferably anonymously, if possible. This keeps ego in check.
Pray for their salvation. And forgiveness, that God would take their hate for us and soften it, leaving love in its place.
That God would give us an opportunity to show kindness to them in the physical and/or spiritual realm.
I'd like to ask that we all forgive someone today. The one who has hurt us the very most. Even if they have never asked for forgiveness.
In Jesus name
Matthew 6:14-15
Luke 6:27-36
Matthew 5:43-44
The basic situation in this world is that man is under the bondage of the law ( Romans 3:19-20; also see Galatians). Therefore; the universal application of the old covenant of works essentially is expected for all who wish to come to the one true faith. Christ; of course has allowed us to be "grafted in" to the promises of Israel. We see this in the second half of Romans 13.
We have been called and chosen to be God's children. Nonetheless; we are just as required to follow the stipulations of Christ; namely loving God and obeying His commandments. ( John 14:21). Our love; of course only comes from the Lord; as any who love the law of God ( Psalm 119). The flesh abhors the law as it cannot obey it.
The church therefore; once again doesn't sign any paperwork with God but is held accountable to God's terms for calling themselves a believer. Greater punishment for those who have knowledge of the law is seen in Matthew 11:21 and the following verses. This is why churches that want signed agreements as to membership requirements aren't a failsafe method. God isn't fooled by those who say "Lord, Lord" but don't do what He says. ( Luke 6:46). God knows man's heart and that is what He gets to the bottom of in terms of man's attitudes and actions which is the focus of the New Testament and new covenant as the Lord Himself explained and of course is further discussed in the Epistles. We should be careful not to call ourselves Christians if we are not; it is better not to know the truth than to follow Christ in this way ( 2 Peter 2:21). We see the two classes of people who are either unbelievers or reprobate in many scriptures. More on that later.
Luke 6:30 is part of a section ( Luke 6:27-38) that deals with the conduct of life, our attitude toward other people. There are 13 things that are mentioned in this section and Verse 30 is one of those things.
Here is what I see in Verse 30:
It says give to everyone that asks you, everyone! And of him that takes away thy goods do not ask them back again.
Now wait a minute! If you take my things, where does that leave me? I mean that makes me a little angry. Well, if they take away my things, what have I lost? My things!
It's interesting how the Lord helps us work things out when we accumulate too much of the world, and He allows the world to take it away through the various means. Please don't ask for it back. Don't fight for it. It was taken away for a reason!
Hopefully these are helpful & encouraging & healing to you, that you likewise will help others Matthew 10:8,
I brought up previously about an answered prayer for a brother finding a wife. There could be times when someone is asking for something and considering plans that you can clearly see is NOT God's will; or feel led to pray the opposite. This probably wouldn't go so well if you spell it out under those circumstances. Certain imprecatory prayers as David had aren't necessarily wrong; but obviously it should be kept under wraps. I would also say that prayer in the closet could involve those in the underground church where a small group keeps in private as well. The example of Jesus praying for Peter when He knew that Satan was about to mess with him also was case specific and not shared until the appropriate time. I am sure He knew this all along; so that this prayer could have been made for a while or any number of times. There are no other prayers listed discussed with the Apostles; but Christ spent an entire night in prayer before He chose them ( Luke 6:12). This was revealed to Luke; we don't know who else (not sure about other Gospel writers). His prayer also along with fasting was private before casting the dumb spirit out of the boy ( Matt. 17:21). So there is much to be learned in the Gospels about "proactive prayer" and preparation before ministering. This is effective before and after evangelism as well; from the experiences I have had and others.
We certainly don't need to be praying in front of everyone for more money. I have seen evidences of that providence by missionaries who recieved funds within a day; for instance for a new building; and the Lord has been faithful in my life as well.
It isn't wrong of course even to accept someone's help after a request is made; but don't expect my contributions to any preachers that say they will die or something if we don't send them money like a certain famous now deceased preacher whose name I will leave to the imagination.
Let us be wise.
a. His Names: Hebrews 1:8, John 20:28 (God); Matthew 16:16, Matthew 26:61-65 (the Son of God); Matthew 22:41-46 (Lord); Revelation 19:13 (Word of God); Revelation 19:16 (King of kings and Lord of lords).
b. His Characteristics: Matthew 28:18 (Omnipotence: all powerful); Luke 6:8, John 2:24,25, John 13:11 (Omniscience: all knowing); Matthew 18:20 (Omnipresence: present in any place); John 1:4 (Life); John 14:6 (Truth); Hebrews 13:8 (Immutability: unchanging); 1 Timothy 3:16, John 1:1-14 (God manifest in the flesh in Jesus).
c. His Works: John 1:3, Colossians 1:16 (creates); Colossians 1:17 (sustains); Luke 7:48,49 (forgives sin); John 11:41-44 (raises the dead); John 5:27 (judges); John 15:26 (sends the Holy Spirit).
d. His receiving Worship: Hebrews 1:6 (from angels); Revelation 5:11-13 (from other heavenly beings); Matthew 14:33 (from men); Philippians 2:10 (from all).
e. His equality within the Triune God: John 14:23, John 10:30-33 (with the Father); Matthew 28:19, 2 Corinthians 13:14 (with the Father and the Spirit).
I hope you can see from these few Scriptures that Jesus was not just a special Man or Prophet sent by God, but truly was "God manifested in the flesh". No other man before Jesus' coming, during, or after His leaving this Earth, could ever fully reflect God's Glory, Wisdom & Power. Only God could - and He did this by sending us His Word, made Him a Man, so that He could give His Life as full payment for our sins - but only to those who believe this & place their trust in Him. To some, the 'Trinity' teaching is abominable. But man's salvation depends on the Divine Person of the Lord Jesus Christ - that God could accept no other Sacrifice to redeem & secure people to Himself - only by giving fully of Himself, which is true love for all.
Matthew 10:22
The world hated Jesus first. I'm really concerned about the world currently, because people are exchanging truth for lies as the shinier more appealing object of their affection. Truth seems unpopular in current times- this is hard to see unfold as I used to have hope for a brighter future.
1John 3, whole chapter, , John 15:12-26, Luke 6:22, 1Peter 4, John 16:1-16,
Examples of Christ to follow = John 16:32-33, John 3:17, Luke 23:23,33,34
James 4:1-4,
Matthew 25:31-46, 2Corinthians 9:9, Luke 14:13,14, Luke 6:20, James 1:27, James 2,
Hopefully these are helpful
Hope everything is going well with you. In comments recently KJBO Admin put new messages about updates, they asked for additional suggestions. I would reply to that thread. They're usually quick to respond. There is also a Link they usually have in that comment to reply to if you'd rather reply that way.
Btw._. I thought I'd take the opportunity to explain why I rarely reply back on the threads. One comment you made a while back addressed your feelings when not being replied back to, during discussion. Usually the original Thread is a new person asking a question & I personally wouldn't want different conversations going on in a chat if I was seeking a GODly answer from scripture. Luke 6:31, especially if new in scripture. My other reasoning is: if I do not feel my additional reply will edify, I usually will not. 1Thessalonians 5:11, Romans 14:19, 1Corinthians 10:23, finally because our comments are up & posted for all the literal World to see, read & return to: 2Corinthians 3:2, I am trying to treat GOD's Word & my opportunity to serve Him faithfully with the utmost respect & honor, therefore I do try to hold my tongue & keep my personal opinions mostly out of my posts. John 5:44,
I definitely have not meant my lack of responses as disrespect, on the contrary it is usually out of respect I have kept quiet. As per also site comment guidelines.
Hopefully helpful
That's all true Adam, we've redefining holiness and worship, and excused disobedience.
This will cause many to be deceived. Matthew 7:22-23. says "MANY".
That should cause us to examine ourselves to see if we are in the faith.
I like the way Paul put it in
2 Corinthians 13:5. You notice whereit says "how that Jesus Christ is in you, except ye be reprobates?"
( He's saying IF Christ is in you you WILL perform a certain way.)
2 Corinthians 3:3-5 Forasmuch as ye are manifestly declared to be the epistle of Christ ministered by us, written not with ink, BUT WITH THE SPIRIT OF THE LIVING GOD;
( not in tables of stone,) BUT IN FLESHY TABLES OF THE HEART.
And such trust have we through Christ to God-ward:
Not that we are sufficient of ourselves to think any thing as of ourselves; BUT OUR SUFFICIENCY IS OF GOD;
God Lords over our hearts. Him IN us is manifested in our walk.
I believe that is what the Lord is saying in this rhetorical question in Luke 6:46 "And why call ye me, Lord, Lord, and do not the things which I say?"
If he is your Lord he put his spirit inside you to perform his will!
We've been sanctified Positionally.
( Given an atonement).
We are being sanctified practically.
(Growing in grace and quickened by the Spirit. ) This is our walk.
Worship is in truth and in spirit. It's not a hobby!
When we're passing out God's word we're not going to be correct all the time but we should hold it dear to our heart and be cautious to not treat it like a conversation at a round table.
Neither will we find our walk perfect but the desire to be perfect should be there.
There has to be conviction in your heart. Not pride or glory seeking. There has to be a denial of self! Not man pleasers.
It's joy being redeemed but it's not a game!
It's not doing our best. Our best isn't good enough.
It's accepting God's best. His son Jesus Christ.
It's his ability to sanctify us is where we stand.
God bless.
Luke 6:20 reads as, "Blessed be ye poor: for yours is the kingdom of God". And Luke 4:18, Jesus quoting from Isaiah about Himself, "The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, because he hath anointed me to preach the gospel to the poor...". Whether in spiritual poverty or lacking in worldly goods, even having a spirit that is contrite before God, Jesus came to minister to these folk, that through their poverty & spiritual need they would ultimately be blessed; and post-crucifixion & the Work of the Holy Spirit, these are the broken spirits that will be affected and moved towards the Lord's Salvation.
When we observe professing Christians; there are many clues as to whether they are "fruit producers" or not. This could be more adequately explained by comparing all "professors" of the faith to those "possessors" of the Holy Spirit. Here are some helpful verses to examine ourselves as well as get some clues as to where others are spiritually.
"He chastises everyone He loves." ( Heb. 12:6). Those of us who have been truly walking the straight and narrow know better than to glibly pray for something like patience. To freely embrace a verse like James 1:2 where we are told to "consider it all joy" when various trials/temptations come pass need to trust the Lord that He knows how to work all circumstances for the good OF THOSE WHO LOVE GOD (and called according to His purpose: Romans 8:28). This is the best way we can distinguish who is in the faith; those who truly understand not only that their sins have been forgiven; but they have a new Lord; Savior AND master. His sheep hear His voice; they may go astray for a time but the Chief Shephard brings in the lost 1 from the 99. ( Luke 15:4).
"if you love me you will obey my commandments." ( John 14:15). This verse may seem to contradict the ones where people were doing all sorts of "good works" in His name but were not His sheep ( Matt. 7:21-23). This is a caution to anyone who would have a ministry based on their own name; or type of gifting and certainly for the prosperity gospel leadership. We saw the same self-righteous religion with the Pharisees. Judas Iscariot is a pathetic example who was somehow convinced to betray Christ for 30 pieces of silver; apparently 4 days wages at that time although it would show silver vastly more valuable then compared to today's valuation. It was the seduction of power; then which Satan used to draw him in; thus the verse The admonitions of Luke 6:26 and Luke 16:15 serve aw warnings for those loving praise of men over praise of God.
2Timothy 2:3,
UPON THIS ROCK I SHALL BUILD MY CHURCH.
He saith unto them, But whom say ye that I am?
And Simon Peter answered and said, THOU ART THE CHRIST, THE SON OF THE LIVING GOD. Matthew 16:15-16
Ephesians 2:19-20 Now therefore ye are no more strangers and foreigners, but fellowcitizens with the saints, and of the household of God;
And are built upon the FOUNDATION OF THE APOSTLES AND PROPHETS, Jesus Christ himself being the chief CORNER STONE;
In Luke 6:13 we see that Jesus chose who he would name Apostles.
"And when it was day, he called unto him his disciples: and of them he chose twelve, whom also he named apostles;
The question is when did the disciples start operating in the office of Apostles?
When was the foundation laid?
1 Corinthians 3:12 Now if any man build upon this foundation gold, silver, precious stones, wood, hay, stubble;
Are we capable of building with gold, silver and precious stone without the dwelling of the Holyspirit?
We do know in Matthew 28:16-17 even after Jesus resurrected the disciples still doubted.
"Then the eleven disciples went away into Galilee, into a mountain where Jesus had appointed them.
And when they saw him, they worshipped him: but some doubted."
In Matthew 28:18-20 Jesus commissioned them to go out to all the world but not to depart from Jerusalem until they were filled with the Holyspirit.
Acts 1:4-5. Luke 24:49.
I believe not until they were filled with the Spirit that rock the church was built on begun. The disciples began to function in the office as Apostles.
Ephesians 4:10-12. He that descended is the same also that ascended up far above all heavens, that he might fill all things.)
AND HE GAVE SOME, APOSTLES; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers;
For the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ:
He didn't do this until he ascended.
God bless.