I'm not sure if your question was about GOD or man. I will try my best to answer it. Ironically " ambiguous " meaning double meaning._._
I think that GOD's WORD the Bible is clear, when we study, & pray for wisdom. James 1:5,
1st GOD gave people dominion: Genesis 1:26,27,28, = power, dominion ect. Within 2nd Generation & continued; 1st crime: Genesis 4:6-9, & Genesis 4:23, dominion with disregard for others, even anothers very life. Genesis 6:5, Exodus 1:8,13,16,22, even disregard for life of children
Even then though GOD doesn't disregard HE repayed. Exodus 12:29, Exodus 13:15, notice the whole chapter of Exodus 12, points to John 3:15,16,17, Again people with dominion & power disregarding life of innocent: Luke 22:1,2,7,20,54,63,64, continued; Luke 23:1,2,15,21,33,34,
Also: they killed their own children, Leviticus 18:21, Leviticus 20:1-8, that GOD had destroyed nations for that sin! 1Kings 11:7, 2Kings 23:10,
Jeremiah 32:35, ( how? ) it's unimaginable even to GOD ALMIGHTY ! Jeremiah 7:31, Jeremiah 19:5, 2Chronicles 33:9, 1Kings 11:1-12, Deuteronomy 6:14, Deuteronomy 7:1-8, why? Was it because they destroyed the children, had disregard for innocent lives of their own offspring? Images of GOD
Psalms 82:6, in context Psalms 82,
GOD will Judge: Matthew 25:31-46, Matthew 18:5,6,10,14, Matthew 19:14, Mark 9:42, Luke 17:2, 2Peter 2:7-9, Psalms 9:7,
If your question is regarding "us" "believers" Luke 12:32, Revelation 21,
There will be suffering here on Earth but promises to those who endure, Matthew 24, Mark 13, Revelation 10, 2Timothy 2:3, Revelation 6:9-11,
There are somethings that have not been revealed to us like the two witnesses. Scripture does tell us these two will be killed by the beast that will ascend from the bottomless pit so, if they have died in the past they could not be killed, this flesh only dies once, Heb. 9:27. Some look at the transfiguration with Moses and Elijah but this was before Jesus was crucified and His resurrection.
Jesus is the Firstfruits of those who slept, 1Cor.15:20, and the firstborn from the dead, Cor. 1:18, and no man has ascended to heaven, John 3:13. In Matthew 17:9 Jesus told them to not tell this vision to anyone, the transfiguration was a vision, Moses and Elijah were not there. If they were there Jesus would not be the Firstfruits of them that slept. They were given a glimpse of the kingdom of God, Mark 9:1
Could God transport Enoch or anyone else into the future? I'm sure He has that kind of power. There are thoughts of John may be one, John 21:22 and Revelation 10:11. I guess the only way to know is if we are still living when they show up and they say their names. My understanding, we can confuse other scripture like the vision of the transfiguration trying to answer a question we cannot be sure of the truth of the answer.
Mark 8:22-26, this seems to be the same account witnessed by John: John 9, whole chapter, note: Exodus 4:11, & John 9:1,3,32,33,39,
Matthew 9:27-31, notice: Mark 10:47-52, this guys "faith, immediately" Luke 18:35-43, notice, the situation you referred to: John 9:35-39,
Psalms 146:8, Isaiah 29:18, Isaiah 35:5,6, Isaiah 42:1-21, here in: Matthew 11:5, Luke 7:22, Jesus pointed out the fulfilled prophecy in those ancient scriptures. Matthew 15:31,
Mark 6:1-6,
The mind is a powerful thing, Mark 9:23, Mark 11:23,24, Mark 16:17,
Luke 8:49-50, even death Jesus said "fear not: believe only" ._.
Was it the man's doubt?
Was it an example to not give up, keep trying, keep seeking the miraculous, healings? To encourage us to press on, keep believing, keep trying. (?) or all the above._.
The medical term is called " hematohidrosis " extreme levels of stress, can cause it. " There are multiple blood veins netted around the sweat glands, in net formation, that constrict under the pressure of great stress" "fear and intense mental contemplation are the most frequent causes" recorded under National Library of Medicine, .gov
It can & did occur. Luke 22:44, "sweat as it were great drops of blood"
Let's look into Jesus' stress._._ he had known people were plotting to kill him, Matthew 17:22-23, Matthew 21:38, Mark 9:31, Luke 20:14, Luke 22:2, Jesus knew it was the religious hypocrites that were plotting instead of teaching the sheep (his beloved sheep) John 8:37, John 7:1,19,20 even calling him opposite of Christ, John 10:19,20,
Mark 10:34, here: Jesus even knew how & explained it. Isaiah 52, Psalms 22,
He knew he would be on public display, clothing taken from him, they would gamble for them: Psalms 22:18,19
Jesus knew he was being betrayed & even said go quickly, John 13:27,
Jesus knew the followers would scatter, anyone who loves those who depend on them in anyway never wishes to leave them, especially unprepared, afraid, in danger, alone, being pursued, John 17, John 10:11,12, Luke 12:4, Matthew 24:9,
Those are only some of the details. Extreme stress none of us have faced to that level. Hebrews 4:15,
Hopefully these are helpful to your discussion/ debate / controversy. 2Timothy 3:16,
Verses 1 through 15 are on a mysterious matter; which I will leave other commentators to evaluate. The focus on verse 14 is where I am drawing attention to. Jesus isn't quoted as saying who He was; but the man who was healed was warned to go and sin no more. This assumes once again that Jesus is part of the Godhead; and ties into the rest of the chapter where once again the Pharisees go about a familiar theme of scolding Christ for healing on the Sabbath Day. It is interesting to note that whoever this angel was it certainly didn't stop those seeking a healing or those who did the "work" of taking the first person into the water to be healed. The plan of the Godhead; as to needing to honor the Son to honor the Father (v. 23) with the future resurrection covered from v. 24-29. After discussion of John in v. 36 he tells the audience that they don't know Him in v. 38. They will not come to Him (v. 40); nor have the love of God in them (v. 42). Antichrist is alluded to in v. 43 as to future worship; and Moses is said to accuse them; in v. 45 to 47. This reminds us of the story of Lazarus and the rich man in hell.
The interrelated theme shows that it is all or nothing. If we don't love Christ; we don't love the Father; or those preaching righteousness; or even the lawgivers of the O.T. We can't love the law as Psalm 119 states or have any part in fellowship with the living God. Inexorably; the plan of God; interaction with each member of the Godhead and salvation of any soul is according to a predetermined method because of God's sovereignty. May we cry out and ask God to help us with our unbelief ( Mark 9:24)
If I happened to be that my understanding of the Bible is the same way these people you mentioned, I am actually glad I am not alone. The Book of Acts is an epistle written by Luke who recorded the Acts of the Apostles after Jesus Christ died. Before Jesus Christ died the 12 Apostles spent time with Jesus in His journey on earth from the time He was baptized in water by John the Baptist till He was crucified. So when I read Matthew, Mark , Luke, and John I noticed that most of them repeating the same event that happened, which I think it was very clever. But I noticed Luke would give more information. For example, Matthew 17:4, Mark 9:5, Luke.9:33. but Luke is the only one who wrote "not knowing what he said". I have noticed the pattern that Peter had always been rebuked by Jesus Christ in more than one occasion. So, when I read the Book of Acts Luke recorded the fulfillment of the 12 Apostles receiving the Holy Spirit. What a way to start the chapter with these words Acts 1:1. Then the selection of Mathias as "was numbered by the eleven apostles" Acts 1:26. I thought it was actually brilliant. They prayed and they casted lots. So Mathias was chosen still by man/ men. I pay attention to the detail just my nature as I was doing my own investigative way of studying facts. So chapter 2-4 the apostles continued about their work witnessing who Jesus was, whom they crucified; as well as doing great wonders filled with the Holy Spirit with great power; and a lot of people believed and baptized by water, the way the 12 apostles knew how to be saved. But take note of Acts 1:5, Peter will have a remembrance of this verse when he met with Cornelius and others, the Gentiles in Acts 10 and repeated in chapter 11 ( Acts 10:47; Acts 11:16). Going back to chapter 5 the apostles were in battle with the high priests Sadducees because the apostles ought to follow God. Now there is this man a Pharisee named Gamaliel, a doctor of the law in Acts 5:34. cont
Some preach fasting as a command because Jesus said "when, thou fastest" Matthew 6:16-21,
Sometimes people & Church congregations fast for closeness with GOD, to feel HIS presence, & clarity on direction from GOD: Matthew 9:15, Mark 2:19,20, Luke 5:34,35, Ezra 8:21,23, Nehemiah 1:4, Nehemiah 1, (in context.), Daniel 9:2-3, 2Corinthians 6:4,5
Fasting & prayer to help deliver people from sin, addiction, mental illness, demonic oppression, Matthew 17:21, (context) Matthew 17:14-21, Mark 9:17-29,
1Samuel 7:3
1Corinthians 7:3-5,
Fasting for deliverance: 2Chronicles 20:1-30, Esther 4:3,16, in context: Esther 3:8-15, - Esther 4, Daniel 6:12-23, Joel 1:14, Joel 2:12,
Fasting in repentance, sometimes even after GOD's judgement : 1Samuel 7:2-17, 2Samuel 12:7-23, (do you think it was easier to except it because he was fasting? While others were perplexed?) 1Kings 21, note 1Kings 21:27-29, Jonah 3:5-10, Joel 2:15,
Also Isaiah 58,
Jesus fasted an extreme fast: Matthew 4:2,
When it says in: Matthew 10:8, Luke 10:9, Mark 16:17-18, can we do these things without fasting?
I believe there are too many scriptures about power in fasting, direction, deliverance & repentance to think lightly of.
Fasting is submission, Romans 13:7, Luke 20:25, Matthew 17:25-26,
I've understood it as watching dark things, allowing unholy images inside, instead turn away. Matthew 6:22-23,
Mark 9:47, Matthew 18:9, Luke 11:34-36, also seems to emphasise purity in what we see, choices. Mark 7:20-23, Matthew 20:15, it's used as harsh judgement, possibly seeing through judgemental eyes. Also Luke 6:42,
Jesus gave instruction, I'm not aware of scripture in the Psalms specified for that. But David who is accredited as author of many of the Psalms written in the Bible, was able to have an evil spirit leave Saul, by playing music. 1Samuel 16, however this seems different, because note: 1Samuel 16:14, 1Samuel 15, note 1Samuel 15:23,
Please read & study these:
Mark 1:34,39, Mark 3:14-15, Matthew 12:28, Luke 11:20, Mark 16:9, Matthew 8:16, Luke 4:14, Luke 8:2, Matthew 28:18-20,
Jude 1:2-10, note: Jude 1:9, Acts 19:13-17, Matthew 12:39-45, Luke 11:14-26,
Doug , you bring up a great point that almost no one teaches on , much less has a clue about. So you have provided a number of verses on "clouds" allow me to provide a few more that will open things up for you and all else who read this.
Psalms 104:3 " who maketh the clouds his chariot" .... that is the KEY to the clouds . A cloud or clouds plural are actually referencing his chariot and fleet of chariots in Psalms 68:17 "The chariots of God are twenty thousand, even thousands of angels:
the Lord is among them, as in Sinai, in the holy place." 20,000 chariots would be a flying fleet of aircraft/spacecraft, as he comes down from heaven and maneuvers through the skies of earth. Look at Isaiah 66:15 "For behold, the LORD will come with fire, and with his CHARIOTS....." this is at the second coming ! This clearly ties in with the armies in heaven which follow him in Revelation 19:14
That should open things up a little for you. A detailed study of the Mt of Transfiguration where a cloud comes with the Father in it bringing Moses and Elijah.... "and they feared (the disciples) as they (Moses and Elijah) ENTERED INTO THE CLOUD".. Like 9:34. Yeah, I bet they did. First off, Moses was resurrected - Jude 1:9. Elijah went up in a chariot in 2 Kings 2. They then return in one of these Cloud-Chariots with the Father to talk to Jesus before his death. This fulfills the prophecy Jesus gave the week before about some standing here not tasting death till they see the kingdom of God .... Matthew 16 end - Matthew 17:1-10Mark 9:1:10 Luke 9:26-36
As for the Ascension of Christ in Acts 1, it is likely the same cloud of the Mt of Transfiguration, as Jesus goes to sit on the right hand of the Father. This doctrine is virtually unknown to most all Christians, much less those that teach or preach to them. Thanks be to God I happened across a website a few years back where the late Patrick Cooke laid this all out in detail. Opened my eyes quite a bit.
Obviously, Peter, James and John see the kingdom coming at the Mt of Transfiguration. John especially, the Book of Revelation.
Compare all 3 passages of Matthew 17:1-9, Mark 9:1-9 and Luke 9:26-36.
Remember, Moses had died and God had buried him. Michael the archangel goes to get his body Jude 1:9
Elias (Elijah) was picked up by a chariot of fire 2 Kings 2:11-12.
They are returned by and re-enter a "cloud" where the voice of the Father is heard, Luke 9:34-35. Note the Father must have been in that cloud / chariot.
The clouds and chariots connection is found in Psalm 104:3 The clouds typify the chariots of the LORD which number 20,000 Psalm 68:17.. notice they are "as in Sinai", Moses time in Exodus. Of course the Cloud in Exodus performed as an aircraft / spacecraft as it came down from heaven and then did many aerial maneuvers.
When the second coming happens it is referred to many times as a "day of clouds" and in Isaiah 66:15 it involves "his chariots",
which is a fleet of at least 20,000 - Psalms 68:17.
Moses and Elias represent the Law and the Prophets, which is what Jesus came to fulfill - Luke 24:44 and they "spake of his decease which he should accomplish at Jerusalem" - Luke 9:31
So then, Jesus makes the statement that there be some standing here which shall not taste of death till they see the kingdom of God... refers to the event of The Mt of Transfiguration event.
Obviously, Peter, James and John see the kingdom coming at the Mt of Transfiguration. John especially, the Book of Revelation.
Compare all 3 passages of Matthew 17:1-9, Mark 9:1-9 and Luke 9:26-36.
Remember, Moses had died and God had buried him. Michael the archangel goes to get his body Jude 1:9
Elias (Elijah) was picked up by a chariot of fire 2 Kings 2:11-12.
They are returned by and re-enter a "cloud" where the voice of the Father is heard, Luke 9:34-35. Note the Father must have been in that cloud / chariot.
The clouds and chariots connection is found in Psalm 104:3 The clouds typify the chariots of the LORD which number 20,000 Psalm 68:17.. notice they are "as in Sinai", Moses time in Exodus. Of course the Cloud in Exodus performed as an aircraft / spacecraft as it came down from heaven and then did many aerial maneuvers.
When the second coming happens it is referred to many times as a "day of clouds" and in Isaiah 66:15 it involves "his chariots",
which is a fleet of at least 20,000 - Psalms 68:17.
Moses and Elias represent the Law and the Prophets, which is what Jesus came to fulfill - Luke 24:44 and they "spake of his decease which he should accomplish at Jerusalem" - Luke 9:31
So then, Jesus makes the statement that there be some standing here which shall not taste of death till they see the kingdom of God... refers to the event of The Mt of Transfiguration event.
JESUS was talking about the Church not any member of a person's body (GOD forbid); it is against doctrine to mutilate the flesh for anything.
The subject was others who went out and healed in JESUS name but were not part of the group of disciples fallowing JESUS. Other words the many member body of CHRIST; church. . CHRIST was saying don't condemn them for they were working to spread the gospel and church as a whole, if it wasn't so they would not of been able to dispel spirits. Mark 9:40
A church is made up of many members ( 1 Corinthians 12:12-:31). You have a preacher the (head) of the church, deacons (eyes), collectors (hands) etc for examples. If you have a member of a church that causes chaos you are to dispose of it quickly before it grows. Take gossip for instance, you are to stop it in its tracks. If you have a deacon (eyes) of a church pluck it out-if he is causing say gossiping ex. about member/members; other words kick him out the church so the whole body doesn't suffer and the whole church burns.
I don't see anything humorous about it. We're being warned we are about to fall into a ditch. I find Jesus's teachings, serious, on target and kinda fatherly. Not many people remember the old saying, "Little pitchers have big ears."
What does Mark 9:43 mean?
Jesus' words about a vague sin committed by a concrete body part parallels how scholars at that time spoke of concrete sins committed by an abstract body part, such as the heart. In Jesus' manner of speaking, the emphasis is placed on the choice, the action, and the responsibility of the perpetrator. The "hand" is a metaphor for the way in which the heart may lead the person to do something sinful. [like don't send your 5yr old into the house to get daddy another beer]
The transition from Jesus' warning about causing others to sin in verse 42 is not as abrupt as it appears. Just as our heart may cause our hand to commit a sinful act, so it may cause a child or a younger Christian to commit a sinful act. Both require that we take serious steps to prevent our hearts from sinning.
The term translated as "hell" in English is literally tn geennan. This is a reference to the Valley of Hinnom, the dump outside of Jerusalem where animal carcasses and other waste was burned. During the times of the worst idolatry in Israel, parents sacrificed their children to Molech by placing them in glowing-hot metal statues ( Jeremiah 7:31; 19:5; 32:35). Good king Josiah tore down the altars and dedicated the valley to the burning of offal ( 2 Kings 23:10).
To "enter life" doesn't refer to being born. As "hell" means eternal punishment, "life" means eternal paradise for those who are saved by Christ. Jesus isn't giving a detailed description of eternity, here. Like in Matthew 5, He's illustrating how impossible it is to keep from sinning. Our resurrected bodies will not reflect the hardships we experienced in this life. Paul describes our new bodies as imperishable, glorified, and empowered ( 1 Corinthians 15:42-49)
I believe that Jesus was using hyperbole to emphasize the gravity and deadly nature of sin. Is it better to enter heaven without a body part that drug one into sin or enter hell with all of our body still intact? I do not think he meant this to be done literally anymore than he meant we should lose our life to gain it by committing suicide or have someone else slay us. He was value of eternal life in Him and the need to trusty in Him to raise us from the dead if we indeed should loose our life. So we should not fear dying as an excuse to not follow God's lead in our life. This is the attitude the apostles and other martyrs had when being severely persecuted for their faith and endured torturous deaths for the sake of not renouncing Christ. We have a sense of self-preservation built into us by God. It is a good thing. But when it comes to a choice between committing grave sin to spare our own life, we are to refuse to do so, thus overriding the self-preservation/survival mode of our being and body.
Paul said, "I die daily". He was not saying he physically died and was resurrected each day, but that he daily put to death the sinful nature by the power of Christ residing in him by the Holy Spirit. I pray to have this attitude like Paul, to be so intent on living a godly life set apart from sin that I access in every circumstance the power over sin that is ours in Christ. But He also knows that we will fail even as we are being further sanctified by the Holy Spirit. That is why John says in 1 John 1:9 that God wis faithful and just and will forgive us when we repent and confess our sins. It is encouraged in Scripture to examine ourselves daily with the "lens" of the Holy Spirit to expose our sins. Therefore, we die daily as we put to death our sinful nature daily through the grace of God that brings both repentance and forgiveness to us. How wonderful is that!
Only with God's power can we cannot overcome sin in our life.
I suppose so, and I suppose also that it means that one should put forth more creativity and effort into being good.
It says, dont tell me you dont have options, it says I can give you at least one theoretical solution.
It says, if you have trouble not sinning, you might have a way to do it, it just might be hard.
It does perhaps call on one to make a greater sacrifice.
But consider the implications.
I have a body part which likes to sin.
Should I cut it off yes or no?
You have already made your answer a clear yes, because as you have said Hell is very real literal Hell.
Is that sane?
So I do have another alternative, I can cut off the things which enter my mind instead of cutting off my hands - that's sane, that's normal, I can feel comfortable explaining to people that I practice that.
But why call it cutting off your hands if you only meant cut off the things which enter my mind?
The comparision statements make clear the very real literal place of hell; and therefore nothing in this life is worth holding onto that will send us there. We need first of all to understand that God formed man perfect in all his ways; but our sin nature and outward sins come from the thoughts and intentions of the heart. Those things which enter the mind therefore would constitute the eye; and the hand all things which we take action on in order to gratify the sin nature. Job was able to restrain the sin of lust by a covenant with his eyes as it were not to look at a woman with lust apart from his wife. We also need to consider the paralytic who Christ healed after many years of suffering; he was told to sin no more lest something worse happened to him which no doubt would indicate physical; and subsequent spiritual death. He didn't have functioning body parts; nonetheless whatever sin caused the state in his particular instance perpetuated through his sinful soul; mind and heart.
In another sense; we are not supposed to not let our left hand know what our right hand is doing ( Matthew 6:3). Just as we are to have open hands; not closed fists when it comes to our possessions; our body is the Temple of the Lord in a sense; and we are to submit our members to His Lordship ( Romans 6:13 loosely translated). We were bought with a price; not of our own.
Nonetheless; true repentance although given by God who puts the desire in our heart to turn to serving and worshipping Him; our part is to die to self. This separates the true believer from those who are not producing fruit but for a time part of the church (as a useless member of the vine). So; mortifying the deeds of the flesh involves a continuing sanctification process which starts at the day of our salvation; and is continued until our death or the rapture. Even saved people grow at different rates; and are subject to falling into sin. He chastises all He loves ( Heb. 12:6); but not the goats.
Hell: the Hebrew word sheol, a place of no perception were the dead go, the grave.
Deuteronomy 32:22 For a fire is kindled in my anger .....
Is this fire literal, started with a match, of the fire of the Lord.
Luke 12:49 And I have come to send fire on the earth; and what will I (be), if it (the fire) already be kindled?
Hebrews 12:29 For our God is a consuming fire.
Luke 12:50 And I have a baptism (fire), to be baptised with, and how am I straitened till it BE ACCOMPLISHED.
Matthew 3:11 ...he shall baptize you with the Holy Ghost and fire.
1 Corinthians 3:15 .....but he himself shall be save, as yet by fire.
Psalms 86:13 For great is thy (the Father's) mercy toward me (Christ): and thou (the Father) shall deliver my (Christ's) soul (body) from the lowest hell (sheol, the grave).
Isaiah 5:14 Therefore hell (sheol, the grave) hath enlarged herself, and open her mouth without measure ....
Mark 9:43
I have never seen a Christian that believed these verses, if they are literal, otherwise they would have cut off their hands and feet to keep from going to hell.
It's an analogy.
You believe in a literal heaven and a literal hell.
Hebrews 12:27 And this word, Yet once more, signifieth the REMOVING of those (literal and physical) things that are shaken, as of things that are made, that those things (SPIRIT) which cannot be shaken remain.
Interesting question. Most excellent Theopholis in Luke 1:1-4 apparently addressed someone as a nobleman as to who the book was written to. The man who couldn't have demons cast out in Mark 9:29 addressed whichever disciples had a failed attempt to cast it out. The conversation when Jesus said you will see a man with an colt tied up and to ask his permission was recorded in Luke 19:30-34. Matthew 17:24-25 definitely shows Peter having a conversation with the tax collector. Then there is the verse in Luke 18:39 which could refer to the Disciples complaining or telling someone to be quiet; and similar references where they were mentioned to be trying to stop someone who was also doing healings and the like in Luke 9:50.
It seems most things were not too edifying that the disciples tried to do to interfere with what people were doing in Christ's presence. Sad commentary; but again before Pentacost many things were hidden from them. It seems there is no named individual who was mentioned; even with Christ until the trial immediately preceeding His death. We do see; however John the Baptist and his interaction which eventuallly caused him to be martyred. There were clearly interactions necessary to procure the healing of Peter's mother in law; and for Christ to give the Apostle John the care of His mother at His death.
I'm not sure if you follow manuscripts or not, but Matthew 17:21 is actually an addition. It is not in some manuscripts, but it actually describes what Jesus said about praying. Howbeit this kind goes not out except by prayer and fasting.
What He means by that is bring him to me. He is not saying that prayer has some magical work to it, like pray over them and the demon will come out. He's saying it's through prayer, give him to me.
I understand that fasting serves two purposes. Number one: To become physically weak in order to be spiritually sensitive. That's the religious meaning for fasting. You go without food and your body becomes weak in order to become spiritually sensitive.
But also, you fast in order to lose your physical strength so that God's Spirit can use you. And that's Jesus' emphasis here, bring him to me. Make sure that you're not involved, that your flesh is not at all involved, and bring him to me.
And again in Mark 9:29, just like the Matthew text, that little phrase "and fasting" was added to many manuscripts. Originally, it was just prayer, but if we keep the fasting in there that's not a problem.
The important thing we need to know is that it is not part of a formula. What is the first thing Jesus said? He said the answer is, bring him to me, and if I am not here, pray! Bring him to me!
Rsv bible mark 9:29 & matthew 17:21 have lost "fasting and prayer" that jesus said in kjv are both necessary to cast out evil/ demons.
two satanic worshippers prevailed in 1963 process to leave out "fasting" in rsv.
(note: " *saint joseph's partners" article "the power of fasting".)
john wesley would not ordain a minister into colonial georgia methodist church who was not fasting.
president abe lincoln declared 30 april as usa national day of fasting and prayer.
a few days later a stray confederate bullet hit their commanding general.
in his absence gettysburg was a turn of the civil war in favor of the union of usa.
why are we today not fasting on bread and water on wednesdays ( day of judas' betrayal) & fridays ( the crucifiction), like early christians practiced?*)
fasting is to humble ourselves, like wicked ahab did when elija told him god's judgement on him was all men and women in his kingdom would die. ahab fasted for a week..god spared ahab's people during his rule.
esther 4:16 she and all jews fasted 3 days. god acted.
the king canceled his command that they all jews be killed.
why struggle under evil, pandemic, closed churches, war time attacks?fasting can be developed step by step.
cardiologist, dr. p. jamnadas lectures:"the amazing benefits of "fasting for survival" as he lecture med students at fla. state univ. med school.
(( why not reverse and cure diabetes? 80%of usa is prediabetic.
clear brain fog? reverse cardio vascular disease? reduce waist lines to less than 40 inches?)
this assistant med school professor describes how to, step by step, develop ability to fast.
how about reduce risk of cancer by 70%for life time?
help!!!
lead us in developing ability to fast and pray..., as jesus expects us to do.
For me, I try to always remember that Jesus promised that God does hear the prayers of believers and answers. And I always try to remember that He is sovereign and will always do what is in accord with His will and purpose. Also, I try to always remember to trust Him with the answers He gives, for he is faithful and just. He loves us and is willing to answer our prayers from His goodness and grace, freely given to us.
Remember, God is neither a genie nor a wishing well for your pleasure. All prayers are answered. May be not the answer or time frame you were looking for in your prayers, but answered. Praise the Lord.
I'm not sure if your question was about GOD or man. I will try my best to answer it. Ironically " ambiguous " meaning double meaning._._
I think that GOD's WORD the Bible is clear, when we study, & pray for wisdom. James 1:5,
1st GOD gave people dominion: Genesis 1:26,27,28, = power, dominion ect. Within 2nd Generation & continued; 1st crime: Genesis 4:6-9, & Genesis 4:23, dominion with disregard for others, even anothers very life. Genesis 6:5, Exodus 1:8,13,16,22, even disregard for life of children
Even then though GOD doesn't disregard HE repayed. Exodus 12:29, Exodus 13:15, notice the whole chapter of Exodus 12, points to John 3:15,16,17, Again people with dominion & power disregarding life of innocent: Luke 22:1,2,7,20,54,63,64, continued; Luke 23:1,2,15,21,33,34,
Also: they killed their own children, Leviticus 18:21, Leviticus 20:1-8, that GOD had destroyed nations for that sin! 1Kings 11:7, 2Kings 23:10,
Jeremiah 32:35, ( how? ) it's unimaginable even to GOD ALMIGHTY ! Jeremiah 7:31, Jeremiah 19:5, 2Chronicles 33:9, 1Kings 11:1-12, Deuteronomy 6:14, Deuteronomy 7:1-8, why? Was it because they destroyed the children, had disregard for innocent lives of their own offspring? Images of GOD
Psalms 82:6, in context Psalms 82,
GOD will Judge: Matthew 25:31-46, Matthew 18:5,6,10,14, Matthew 19:14, Mark 9:42, Luke 17:2, 2Peter 2:7-9, Psalms 9:7,
If your question is regarding "us" "believers" Luke 12:32, Revelation 21,
There will be suffering here on Earth but promises to those who endure, Matthew 24, Mark 13, Revelation 10, 2Timothy 2:3, Revelation 6:9-11,
Hopefully these are helpful
There are somethings that have not been revealed to us like the two witnesses. Scripture does tell us these two will be killed by the beast that will ascend from the bottomless pit so, if they have died in the past they could not be killed, this flesh only dies once, Heb. 9:27. Some look at the transfiguration with Moses and Elijah but this was before Jesus was crucified and His resurrection.
Jesus is the Firstfruits of those who slept, 1Cor.15:20, and the firstborn from the dead, Cor. 1:18, and no man has ascended to heaven, John 3:13. In Matthew 17:9 Jesus told them to not tell this vision to anyone, the transfiguration was a vision, Moses and Elijah were not there. If they were there Jesus would not be the Firstfruits of them that slept. They were given a glimpse of the kingdom of God, Mark 9:1
Could God transport Enoch or anyone else into the future? I'm sure He has that kind of power. There are thoughts of John may be one, John 21:22 and Revelation 10:11. I guess the only way to know is if we are still living when they show up and they say their names. My understanding, we can confuse other scripture like the vision of the transfiguration trying to answer a question we cannot be sure of the truth of the answer.
God bless,
RLW
Matthew 9:27-31, notice: Mark 10:47-52, this guys "faith, immediately" Luke 18:35-43, notice, the situation you referred to: John 9:35-39,
Psalms 146:8, Isaiah 29:18, Isaiah 35:5,6, Isaiah 42:1-21, here in: Matthew 11:5, Luke 7:22, Jesus pointed out the fulfilled prophecy in those ancient scriptures. Matthew 15:31,
Mark 6:1-6,
The mind is a powerful thing, Mark 9:23, Mark 11:23,24, Mark 16:17,
Luke 8:49-50, even death Jesus said "fear not: believe only" ._.
Was it the man's doubt?
Was it an example to not give up, keep trying, keep seeking the miraculous, healings? To encourage us to press on, keep believing, keep trying. (?) or all the above._.
It can & did occur. Luke 22:44, "sweat as it were great drops of blood"
Let's look into Jesus' stress._._ he had known people were plotting to kill him, Matthew 17:22-23, Matthew 21:38, Mark 9:31, Luke 20:14, Luke 22:2, Jesus knew it was the religious hypocrites that were plotting instead of teaching the sheep (his beloved sheep) John 8:37, John 7:1,19,20 even calling him opposite of Christ, John 10:19,20,
Mark 10:34, here: Jesus even knew how & explained it. Isaiah 52, Psalms 22,
He knew he would be on public display, clothing taken from him, they would gamble for them: Psalms 22:18,19
Jesus knew he was being betrayed & even said go quickly, John 13:27,
Jesus knew the followers would scatter, anyone who loves those who depend on them in anyway never wishes to leave them, especially unprepared, afraid, in danger, alone, being pursued, John 17, John 10:11,12, Luke 12:4, Matthew 24:9,
Those are only some of the details. Extreme stress none of us have faced to that level. Hebrews 4:15,
Hopefully these are helpful to your discussion/ debate / controversy. 2Timothy 3:16,
The interrelated theme shows that it is all or nothing. If we don't love Christ; we don't love the Father; or those preaching righteousness; or even the lawgivers of the O.T. We can't love the law as Psalm 119 states or have any part in fellowship with the living God. Inexorably; the plan of God; interaction with each member of the Godhead and salvation of any soul is according to a predetermined method because of God's sovereignty. May we cry out and ask God to help us with our unbelief ( Mark 9:24)
Here are a few scriptures for, Fasting & prayer: Matthew 6:5-18, Mark 11:22-26, Luke 11:2-4, Luke 11:9-13,
Luke 18:10-17, Isaiah 58, Matthew 17:14-21, Mark 9:25-29,
Hopefully these are helpful
If I happened to be that my understanding of the Bible is the same way these people you mentioned, I am actually glad I am not alone. The Book of Acts is an epistle written by Luke who recorded the Acts of the Apostles after Jesus Christ died. Before Jesus Christ died the 12 Apostles spent time with Jesus in His journey on earth from the time He was baptized in water by John the Baptist till He was crucified. So when I read Matthew, Mark , Luke, and John I noticed that most of them repeating the same event that happened, which I think it was very clever. But I noticed Luke would give more information. For example, Matthew 17:4, Mark 9:5, Luke.9:33. but Luke is the only one who wrote "not knowing what he said". I have noticed the pattern that Peter had always been rebuked by Jesus Christ in more than one occasion. So, when I read the Book of Acts Luke recorded the fulfillment of the 12 Apostles receiving the Holy Spirit. What a way to start the chapter with these words Acts 1:1. Then the selection of Mathias as "was numbered by the eleven apostles" Acts 1:26. I thought it was actually brilliant. They prayed and they casted lots. So Mathias was chosen still by man/ men. I pay attention to the detail just my nature as I was doing my own investigative way of studying facts. So chapter 2-4 the apostles continued about their work witnessing who Jesus was, whom they crucified; as well as doing great wonders filled with the Holy Spirit with great power; and a lot of people believed and baptized by water, the way the 12 apostles knew how to be saved. But take note of Acts 1:5, Peter will have a remembrance of this verse when he met with Cornelius and others, the Gentiles in Acts 10 and repeated in chapter 11 ( Acts 10:47; Acts 11:16). Going back to chapter 5 the apostles were in battle with the high priests Sadducees because the apostles ought to follow God. Now there is this man a Pharisee named Gamaliel, a doctor of the law in Acts 5:34. cont
What GOD says= Mark 9:42, Matthew 18:6,7,10,14,
Hopefully these help answer
To add to your thoughts, GOD created us in HIS image, & said: Mark 11:23,24, Mark 9:23, Mark 11:24, Mark 16:17-18,
Into a Three Sixty?
Sometimes people & Church congregations fast for closeness with GOD, to feel HIS presence, & clarity on direction from GOD: Matthew 9:15, Mark 2:19,20, Luke 5:34,35, Ezra 8:21,23, Nehemiah 1:4, Nehemiah 1, (in context.), Daniel 9:2-3, 2Corinthians 6:4,5
Fasting & prayer to help deliver people from sin, addiction, mental illness, demonic oppression, Matthew 17:21, (context) Matthew 17:14-21, Mark 9:17-29,
1Samuel 7:3
1Corinthians 7:3-5,
Fasting for deliverance: 2Chronicles 20:1-30, Esther 4:3,16, in context: Esther 3:8-15, - Esther 4, Daniel 6:12-23, Joel 1:14, Joel 2:12,
Fasting in repentance, sometimes even after GOD's judgement : 1Samuel 7:2-17, 2Samuel 12:7-23, (do you think it was easier to except it because he was fasting? While others were perplexed?) 1Kings 21, note 1Kings 21:27-29, Jonah 3:5-10, Joel 2:15,
Also Isaiah 58,
Jesus fasted an extreme fast: Matthew 4:2,
When it says in: Matthew 10:8, Luke 10:9, Mark 16:17-18, can we do these things without fasting?
I believe there are too many scriptures about power in fasting, direction, deliverance & repentance to think lightly of.
Fasting is submission, Romans 13:7, Luke 20:25, Matthew 17:25-26,
Hopefully these are helpful
I've understood it as watching dark things, allowing unholy images inside, instead turn away. Matthew 6:22-23,
Mark 9:47, Matthew 18:9, Luke 11:34-36, also seems to emphasise purity in what we see, choices. Mark 7:20-23, Matthew 20:15, it's used as harsh judgement, possibly seeing through judgemental eyes. Also Luke 6:42,
Hope this is helpful
Jesus gave instruction, I'm not aware of scripture in the Psalms specified for that. But David who is accredited as author of many of the Psalms written in the Bible, was able to have an evil spirit leave Saul, by playing music. 1Samuel 16, however this seems different, because note: 1Samuel 16:14, 1Samuel 15, note 1Samuel 15:23,
Please read & study these:
Mark 1:34,39, Mark 3:14-15, Matthew 12:28, Luke 11:20, Mark 16:9, Matthew 8:16, Luke 4:14, Luke 8:2, Matthew 28:18-20,
Jude 1:2-10, note: Jude 1:9, Acts 19:13-17, Matthew 12:39-45, Luke 11:14-26,
Mark 6:7-13, Luke 9:49-50,
Matthew 10:8, Mark 16:17,
Matthew 17:14-21, Mark 9:17-29,
James 1:2-7, Luke 11:1-13,
Hopefully these are all helpful
Psalms 104:3 " who maketh the clouds his chariot" .... that is the KEY to the clouds . A cloud or clouds plural are actually referencing his chariot and fleet of chariots in Psalms 68:17 "The chariots of God are twenty thousand, even thousands of angels:
the Lord is among them, as in Sinai, in the holy place." 20,000 chariots would be a flying fleet of aircraft/spacecraft, as he comes down from heaven and maneuvers through the skies of earth. Look at Isaiah 66:15 "For behold, the LORD will come with fire, and with his CHARIOTS....." this is at the second coming ! This clearly ties in with the armies in heaven which follow him in Revelation 19:14
That should open things up a little for you. A detailed study of the Mt of Transfiguration where a cloud comes with the Father in it bringing Moses and Elijah.... "and they feared (the disciples) as they (Moses and Elijah) ENTERED INTO THE CLOUD".. Like 9:34. Yeah, I bet they did. First off, Moses was resurrected - Jude 1:9. Elijah went up in a chariot in 2 Kings 2. They then return in one of these Cloud-Chariots with the Father to talk to Jesus before his death. This fulfills the prophecy Jesus gave the week before about some standing here not tasting death till they see the kingdom of God .... Matthew 16 end - Matthew 17:1-10 Mark 9:1:10 Luke 9:26-36
As for the Ascension of Christ in Acts 1, it is likely the same cloud of the Mt of Transfiguration, as Jesus goes to sit on the right hand of the Father. This doctrine is virtually unknown to most all Christians, much less those that teach or preach to them. Thanks be to God I happened across a website a few years back where the late Patrick Cooke laid this all out in detail. Opened my eyes quite a bit.
Compare all 3 passages of Matthew 17:1-9, Mark 9:1-9 and Luke 9:26-36.
Remember, Moses had died and God had buried him. Michael the archangel goes to get his body Jude 1:9
Elias (Elijah) was picked up by a chariot of fire 2 Kings 2:11-12.
They are returned by and re-enter a "cloud" where the voice of the Father is heard, Luke 9:34-35. Note the Father must have been in that cloud / chariot.
The clouds and chariots connection is found in Psalm 104:3 The clouds typify the chariots of the LORD which number 20,000 Psalm 68:17.. notice they are "as in Sinai", Moses time in Exodus. Of course the Cloud in Exodus performed as an aircraft / spacecraft as it came down from heaven and then did many aerial maneuvers.
When the second coming happens it is referred to many times as a "day of clouds" and in Isaiah 66:15 it involves "his chariots",
which is a fleet of at least 20,000 - Psalms 68:17.
Moses and Elias represent the Law and the Prophets, which is what Jesus came to fulfill - Luke 24:44 and they "spake of his decease which he should accomplish at Jerusalem" - Luke 9:31
So then, Jesus makes the statement that there be some standing here which shall not taste of death till they see the kingdom of God... refers to the event of The Mt of Transfiguration event.
Compare all 3 passages of Matthew 17:1-9, Mark 9:1-9 and Luke 9:26-36.
Remember, Moses had died and God had buried him. Michael the archangel goes to get his body Jude 1:9
Elias (Elijah) was picked up by a chariot of fire 2 Kings 2:11-12.
They are returned by and re-enter a "cloud" where the voice of the Father is heard, Luke 9:34-35. Note the Father must have been in that cloud / chariot.
The clouds and chariots connection is found in Psalm 104:3 The clouds typify the chariots of the LORD which number 20,000 Psalm 68:17.. notice they are "as in Sinai", Moses time in Exodus. Of course the Cloud in Exodus performed as an aircraft / spacecraft as it came down from heaven and then did many aerial maneuvers.
When the second coming happens it is referred to many times as a "day of clouds" and in Isaiah 66:15 it involves "his chariots",
which is a fleet of at least 20,000 - Psalms 68:17.
Moses and Elias represent the Law and the Prophets, which is what Jesus came to fulfill - Luke 24:44 and they "spake of his decease which he should accomplish at Jerusalem" - Luke 9:31
So then, Jesus makes the statement that there be some standing here which shall not taste of death till they see the kingdom of God... refers to the event of The Mt of Transfiguration event.
The subject was others who went out and healed in JESUS name but were not part of the group of disciples fallowing JESUS. Other words the many member body of CHRIST; church. . CHRIST was saying don't condemn them for they were working to spread the gospel and church as a whole, if it wasn't so they would not of been able to dispel spirits. Mark 9:40
A church is made up of many members ( 1 Corinthians 12:12-:31). You have a preacher the (head) of the church, deacons (eyes), collectors (hands) etc for examples. If you have a member of a church that causes chaos you are to dispose of it quickly before it grows. Take gossip for instance, you are to stop it in its tracks. If you have a deacon (eyes) of a church pluck it out-if he is causing say gossiping ex. about member/members; other words kick him out the church so the whole body doesn't suffer and the whole church burns.
What does Mark 9:43 mean?
Jesus' words about a vague sin committed by a concrete body part parallels how scholars at that time spoke of concrete sins committed by an abstract body part, such as the heart. In Jesus' manner of speaking, the emphasis is placed on the choice, the action, and the responsibility of the perpetrator. The "hand" is a metaphor for the way in which the heart may lead the person to do something sinful. [like don't send your 5yr old into the house to get daddy another beer]
The transition from Jesus' warning about causing others to sin in verse 42 is not as abrupt as it appears. Just as our heart may cause our hand to commit a sinful act, so it may cause a child or a younger Christian to commit a sinful act. Both require that we take serious steps to prevent our hearts from sinning.
The term translated as "hell" in English is literally tn geennan. This is a reference to the Valley of Hinnom, the dump outside of Jerusalem where animal carcasses and other waste was burned. During the times of the worst idolatry in Israel, parents sacrificed their children to Molech by placing them in glowing-hot metal statues ( Jeremiah 7:31; 19:5; 32:35). Good king Josiah tore down the altars and dedicated the valley to the burning of offal ( 2 Kings 23:10).
To "enter life" doesn't refer to being born. As "hell" means eternal punishment, "life" means eternal paradise for those who are saved by Christ. Jesus isn't giving a detailed description of eternity, here. Like in Matthew 5, He's illustrating how impossible it is to keep from sinning. Our resurrected bodies will not reflect the hardships we experienced in this life. Paul describes our new bodies as imperishable, glorified, and empowered ( 1 Corinthians 15:42-49)
I believe that Jesus was using hyperbole to emphasize the gravity and deadly nature of sin. Is it better to enter heaven without a body part that drug one into sin or enter hell with all of our body still intact? I do not think he meant this to be done literally anymore than he meant we should lose our life to gain it by committing suicide or have someone else slay us. He was value of eternal life in Him and the need to trusty in Him to raise us from the dead if we indeed should loose our life. So we should not fear dying as an excuse to not follow God's lead in our life. This is the attitude the apostles and other martyrs had when being severely persecuted for their faith and endured torturous deaths for the sake of not renouncing Christ. We have a sense of self-preservation built into us by God. It is a good thing. But when it comes to a choice between committing grave sin to spare our own life, we are to refuse to do so, thus overriding the self-preservation/survival mode of our being and body.
Paul said, "I die daily". He was not saying he physically died and was resurrected each day, but that he daily put to death the sinful nature by the power of Christ residing in him by the Holy Spirit. I pray to have this attitude like Paul, to be so intent on living a godly life set apart from sin that I access in every circumstance the power over sin that is ours in Christ. But He also knows that we will fail even as we are being further sanctified by the Holy Spirit. That is why John says in 1 John 1:9 that God wis faithful and just and will forgive us when we repent and confess our sins. It is encouraged in Scripture to examine ourselves daily with the "lens" of the Holy Spirit to expose our sins. Therefore, we die daily as we put to death our sinful nature daily through the grace of God that brings both repentance and forgiveness to us. How wonderful is that!
Only with God's power can we cannot overcome sin in our life.
It says, dont tell me you dont have options, it says I can give you at least one theoretical solution.
It says, if you have trouble not sinning, you might have a way to do it, it just might be hard.
It does perhaps call on one to make a greater sacrifice.
But consider the implications.
I have a body part which likes to sin.
Should I cut it off yes or no?
You have already made your answer a clear yes, because as you have said Hell is very real literal Hell.
Is that sane?
So I do have another alternative, I can cut off the things which enter my mind instead of cutting off my hands - that's sane, that's normal, I can feel comfortable explaining to people that I practice that.
But why call it cutting off your hands if you only meant cut off the things which enter my mind?
In another sense; we are not supposed to not let our left hand know what our right hand is doing ( Matthew 6:3). Just as we are to have open hands; not closed fists when it comes to our possessions; our body is the Temple of the Lord in a sense; and we are to submit our members to His Lordship ( Romans 6:13 loosely translated). We were bought with a price; not of our own.
Nonetheless; true repentance although given by God who puts the desire in our heart to turn to serving and worshipping Him; our part is to die to self. This separates the true believer from those who are not producing fruit but for a time part of the church (as a useless member of the vine). So; mortifying the deeds of the flesh involves a continuing sanctification process which starts at the day of our salvation; and is continued until our death or the rapture. Even saved people grow at different rates; and are subject to falling into sin. He chastises all He loves ( Heb. 12:6); but not the goats.
and surely I could think of at least one other body part was worried about.
Others in my church might not be worried about their hands, because their hand is not causing
them to sin, but mine is.
First of all, I want to honor the Christian forum by first defending Jesus.
I believe Jesus has a sense of humor, I conclude based on what I have read,
that Jesus is merely teasing people who have asked him how they can stop sinning.
I understand there is also some very deep symbolism in all of this, as evidenced, by
Jesus talking about "offending" one of "these little ones". So, it is more than just a joke,
but it is humor in my opinion, I cant prove it, but I just dont see Jesus saying seriously to anyone
that they should literally remove parts of their body.
There is some question of what is meant by "offend". Other translations have said "if your hand causes you to sin",
rather than "if your hand offends you". There is surely some implication of hands, eyes, and potentially other
body parts, causing one to lust. If "offend" means something other than "causes you to sin", then in that case,
is that not exactly what the trans-gendered are doing - removing parts of their body which "offend" them?
In Matthew 19:12, Jesus seems to partially endorse the practice of becoming a eunuch.
All this is very scary to the young teenaged Christian such as I was at one time.
I recall also that it is not easy for Christian leaders to soothe such fear by dismissing it,
because, Jesus is saying this.
The joke I talked about is a great joke, it is very deep spiritually, I think we should reflect on this,
Jesus is really telling us not to hurt ourself, not to be hard on ourself. "Rabbi, how do I stop [shameful practice]".
"Cut your hand off".
Its so perfect. Its funny, it disarms the questioner of their fear, its deep, its totally flawless.
Hell: the Hebrew word sheol, a place of no perception were the dead go, the grave.
Deuteronomy 32:22 For a fire is kindled in my anger .....
Is this fire literal, started with a match, of the fire of the Lord.
Luke 12:49 And I have come to send fire on the earth; and what will I (be), if it (the fire) already be kindled?
Hebrews 12:29 For our God is a consuming fire.
Luke 12:50 And I have a baptism (fire), to be baptised with, and how am I straitened till it BE ACCOMPLISHED.
Matthew 3:11 ...he shall baptize you with the Holy Ghost and fire.
1 Corinthians 3:15 .....but he himself shall be save, as yet by fire.
Psalms 86:13 For great is thy (the Father's) mercy toward me (Christ): and thou (the Father) shall deliver my (Christ's) soul (body) from the lowest hell (sheol, the grave).
Isaiah 5:14 Therefore hell (sheol, the grave) hath enlarged herself, and open her mouth without measure ....
Mark 9:43
I have never seen a Christian that believed these verses, if they are literal, otherwise they would have cut off their hands and feet to keep from going to hell.
It's an analogy.
You believe in a literal heaven and a literal hell.
Hebrews 12:27 And this word, Yet once more, signifieth the REMOVING of those (literal and physical) things that are shaken, as of things that are made, that those things (SPIRIT) which cannot be shaken remain.
God Bless YOU!
It seems most things were not too edifying that the disciples tried to do to interfere with what people were doing in Christ's presence. Sad commentary; but again before Pentacost many things were hidden from them. It seems there is no named individual who was mentioned; even with Christ until the trial immediately preceeding His death. We do see; however John the Baptist and his interaction which eventuallly caused him to be martyred. There were clearly interactions necessary to procure the healing of Peter's mother in law; and for Christ to give the Apostle John the care of His mother at His death.
GOD's WORD says seek & you shall find, knock & it shall be opened, Matthew 7:7, Luke 11:9, Luke 1:37, Luke 18:27, Mark 10:27,
Ask & you shall receive, say with your mouth believe with your heart & it will happen. Mark 9:23, John 16:23,24, John 14:13,14, John 15:16,
Mark 11:22-26,
That doesn't just apply to believers GOD even gives people over Romans 1:18-32,
Matthew 17:20, Hebrews 11:6,
Mark 14:36,
James 4:3,
James 4,
Please stay within scripture, write it upon your heart. Proverbs 7:1-3, Deuteronomy 11:18, Proverbs 3:3,
Mark 7:9, Mark 7:13, Colossians 2:8,
Hopefully these are helpful & insightful
I'm not sure if you follow manuscripts or not, but Matthew 17:21 is actually an addition. It is not in some manuscripts, but it actually describes what Jesus said about praying. Howbeit this kind goes not out except by prayer and fasting.
What He means by that is bring him to me. He is not saying that prayer has some magical work to it, like pray over them and the demon will come out. He's saying it's through prayer, give him to me.
I understand that fasting serves two purposes. Number one: To become physically weak in order to be spiritually sensitive. That's the religious meaning for fasting. You go without food and your body becomes weak in order to become spiritually sensitive.
But also, you fast in order to lose your physical strength so that God's Spirit can use you. And that's Jesus' emphasis here, bring him to me. Make sure that you're not involved, that your flesh is not at all involved, and bring him to me.
And again in Mark 9:29, just like the Matthew text, that little phrase "and fasting" was added to many manuscripts. Originally, it was just prayer, but if we keep the fasting in there that's not a problem.
The important thing we need to know is that it is not part of a formula. What is the first thing Jesus said? He said the answer is, bring him to me, and if I am not here, pray! Bring him to me!
two satanic worshippers prevailed in 1963 process to leave out "fasting" in rsv.
(note: " *saint joseph's partners" article "the power of fasting".)
john wesley would not ordain a minister into colonial georgia methodist church who was not fasting.
president abe lincoln declared 30 april as usa national day of fasting and prayer.
a few days later a stray confederate bullet hit their commanding general.
in his absence gettysburg was a turn of the civil war in favor of the union of usa.
why are we today not fasting on bread and water on wednesdays ( day of judas' betrayal) & fridays ( the crucifiction), like early christians practiced?*)
fasting is to humble ourselves, like wicked ahab did when elija told him god's judgement on him was all men and women in his kingdom would die. ahab fasted for a week..god spared ahab's people during his rule.
esther 4:16 she and all jews fasted 3 days. god acted.
the king canceled his command that they all jews be killed.
why struggle under evil, pandemic, closed churches, war time attacks?fasting can be developed step by step.
cardiologist, dr. p. jamnadas lectures:"the amazing benefits of "fasting for survival" as he lecture med students at fla. state univ. med school.
(( why not reverse and cure diabetes? 80%of usa is prediabetic.
clear brain fog? reverse cardio vascular disease? reduce waist lines to less than 40 inches?)
this assistant med school professor describes how to, step by step, develop ability to fast.
how about reduce risk of cancer by 70%for life time?
help!!!
lead us in developing ability to fast and pray..., as jesus expects us to do.
lets cast out evil.
why not?
For me, I try to always remember that Jesus promised that God does hear the prayers of believers and answers. And I always try to remember that He is sovereign and will always do what is in accord with His will and purpose. Also, I try to always remember to trust Him with the answers He gives, for he is faithful and just. He loves us and is willing to answer our prayers from His goodness and grace, freely given to us.
2Chronicles 7:14, 1Peter 3:12, humble ourselves, turn from evil, 1Timothy 2:8, James 5:10-12,
Even when things look impossible keep praying: Isaiah 38:1-9, Matthew 9:29, Matthew 17:14-21, Matthew 7:7-8, Luke 11:9-13, Acts 12:5-18, James 5:13-20
Never give up
Psalms 37, 1Thessalonians 5:17, James 5:16,