43When an unclean spirit comes out of a man, it passes through arid places seeking rest and does not find it. 44Then it says, 'I will return to the house I left.' On its return, it finds the house vacant, swept clean, and put in order. 45Then it goes and brings with it seven other spirits more wicked than itself, and they go in and dwell there; and the final plight of that man is worse than the first. So will it be with this wicked generation."
This passage would seem to infer that a person could have an evil spirit removed somehow; but without the Holy Spirit taking up residence post salvation. ( John 14:23). We are reminded of the sons of Sceva who had demons come out of someone they were trying to exorcize and rend them. ( Acts 19:14-16). We also could conceivably be reminded of those Jesus cast demons from; since some may not have been truly saved after that. We see evidence of that with the case of 1 leper that came back to praise Him while the others went away. ( Luke 17:17-18). We see warnings also of Christ saying sin no more lest something worse happen to you ( John 5:14). In that case it would probably be death as he had been paralyzed for decades apparently due to some sin.
We can think of the condition in the Synagogue where Jesus cast out a demon early on ( John 4:33 and following verses); and consider how the religious and self righteous piety of the Pharisees caused them to have this condemnation in particular.
A more sobering thought is many "ministries" today who are seemingly obsessed with casting out demons (in some cases it is proven the same person is involved over and over as a likely paid participant for crowd appeal). I personally have a big problem with one particular teacher who often baptizes people (and says is necessary for salvation) and demons come out.
We can hardly call someone in that condition in a sound mind ready to make such a commitment to the Body of Christ as Baptism signifies.
35 A good man out of the good treasure of the heart bringeth forth good things: and an evil man out of the evil treasure bringeth forth evil things.
36 But I say unto you, That every idle word that men shall speak, they shall give account thereof in the Day of Judgment. (that is the seventh and last GOD's Day or seventh and last millennium)
37 For by thy words thou shalt be justified, and by thy words thou shalt be condemned.
Revelation 16:15
15 Behold, I come as a thief.
Blessed is he that watcheth, and keepeth his garments, lest he walk naked, and they see his shame.
And Jesus replied, "Neither will I tell you by what authority I am doing these things." ( Luke 20:8).
The Pharisees; who derided Christ throughout His public ministry had this to say shortly before the crucifixion. Jesus shut them out; as well as remaining silent soon after during Pilate's interrogation. Self exaltation and justification wasn't necessary for Christ didn't seek to be served but to serve and give His life for a ransom for many. ( Mark 10:45) The fact is; the Pharisees and religious leaders should have known who He was; and therefore were operating in deliberate blindness; uniquely qualifying them to commit the unpardonable sin. (See Matthew 12:24).
Part of the concept of the verse on "casting pearls before swine" ( Matt. 7:6) relates to this. Jesus hid meanings of the Parables to others who were deliberately spiritually blind (see Matthew 13:34; and Matthew 13:15; Isaiah 42:19-20). John 9:39-41 shows the end of an entire chapter related to a blind man's healing; where Jesus explains how men are made blind to the truth; but the Pharisees after asking if that was the intention of what Jesus said were still left with the judgment for themselves because they could see and were responsible for their sin.
These are sobering reminders that man is not justified in any righteousness of their own and estranged from God from the womb ( Psalm 58:3); yet has a conscience given by God where men are judged more harshly that know the law ( Romans 2:15).
Jesus warned that judgment would be worse for those cities that rejected Him than for Sodom and Gomorrah ( Matthew 10:15).
This attitude led to the unpardonable sin; blasphemy of the Holy Spirit where Beelzebub was attributed to Christ's healing rather than God ( Matthew 12:22). The issue of forgiveness of sins was truly where the problem was; since the miracles were manifold.
Nonetheless; Jesus wouldn't use His power to save Himself on the cross or when unbelief was present (see Matthew 13:58).
Even though there is a distinction between the children of God and the children of the world the scripture says to be kind to all men. Galatians 6:10.
However, we're not all Brothern.
John 1:11-12 says "He came unto his own, and his own received him not.
But as many as received him, to them gave he power to become the "sons of God, even to them that believe on his name"
Jesus also said in Matthew 12:50 "For whosoever shall do the will of my Father which is in heaven, the same is my brother, and sister, and mother.
Ephesians 2:19 states Now therefore ye are no more strangers and foreigners, but fellow citizens with the saints, and of the household of God.
So, there is a clear distinction in scripture between God's children and those who haven't received him.
1 John 3:9-10 covers this well, "Whosoever is born of God doth not commit sin; for his seed remaineth in him: and he cannot sin, because he is born of God.
In this the children of God are manifest, and the children of the devil: whosoever doeth not righteousness is not of God, neither he that loveth not his brother.
"Sons of God" emphasizes a natural, internal relationship with God rather than an external adoption. Becoming God's children involves a real change and transformation, not just a change in title or position. We partake in the divine nature.
All people are not naturally God's children. We must be born again through faith in Christ to become God's children.
This separates us from Adam.
We are now joint heirs with Christ. Romans 8:14-17 "For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, they are the sons of God.
For ye have not received the spirit of bondage again to fear; but ye have received the Spirit of adoption, whereby we cry, Abba, Father. The Spirit itself beareth witness with our spirit, that we are the children of God:
And if children, then heirs; heirs of God, and joint-heirs with Christ; if so be that we suffer with him, that we may be also glorified together.
In the study of Creation there appear to be at least 2 different accounts in Genesis but they are emphasizing different things and hence complement one another ( Genesis 1 and 2). There are many Psalms related to Creation as well. We also see in Jesus quoting almost every book including reference to the Creation ( Matthew 19:8 on divorce); as well as the literal story of Jonah as to how it relates to the Son of Man ( Matthew 12:40). These accounts show the truth of the Old Testament and aren't able to hold water to arguments that things were merely symbolic.
One could argue as an atheist that since the same things seem to happen over and over again in scripture they can't be true; and/or they are borrowed from pagan traditions. Ecclesiastes 1:9 says that there is "nothing new under the sun." If we study things like prophecy there are more often than not multiple fulfillments; we can look at the earlier example of the Temple and abomination therein and see not just Antiochus but also the siege of Rome in 70 AD and to a lesser extent around 130 AD and the final application for Antichrist himself yet to come. The same pattern exists with Psalm 22 and descriptions foreshadowing Christ and demonstrating David's situation; some seem mutually exclusive others overlapping. Jesus was frequently hounded and persecuted much as David was; the difference being He was sinless; David was not. The whole story of the death; burial and Resurrection is seen with the pagan legends and religions as well but if we believe Satan is real he always is coming as a substitute for or against the God of the Bible; as we see in the persona of the Antichrist Beast and world economic and religious system. Satan knows scripture well enough to quote it; and we wouldn't expect anything less from the enemy of God's people.
We can see in the miracles of Christ similar things to the ministry of Elijah. Healing of the blind is unique ( John 9:32-33
Hi Symone63. You must be referring to some other teaching (e.g. Roman Catholicism) which maintains Mary's perpetual virginity. If you are, then the Scriptures are replete with verses to show that after Jesus was born to Mary, then Mary gave birth to other children (sons & daughters), but Mary was indeed a virgin when the Holy Spirit placed this Godly Seed into her, so that God could appear unto men in the flesh in the Person of Jesus, as only God could make the full, acceptable, & permanent payment for mankind sins ( 1 Timothy 2:16; 1 John 3:16; John 15:13).
You can look at the following Scriptures to show that Jesus did have siblings, albeit half-siblings now by both Joseph & Mary. Matthew 12:46,47; Matthew 13:55,56; Mark 6:3; John 2:12; John 7:3,5,10; Acts 1:14; 1 Corinthians 9:5; Galatians 1:19.
What is the meaning of created? Does it mean something that is made out of nothing? I would have to say no, Jesus is the Son of God who was conceived in the womb of Mary, Matthew 1:20Luke 1:35, I do not think I would say He was created.
If so, when did He come into existence?
In God's plan before anything and physically when He was conceived in Mary's womb.
Do you believe that the Son is only human in nature?
Jesus is the Son of God fully human but without sin same as the first Adam, Scripture is clear when Jesus was baptized, He was anointed with the Holy Ghost/Spirit without measure, John 3:34. All the works of Jesus were done by the Spirit of God, Matthew 4:16Matthew 12:28Acts 10:38.
Do you believe that Jesus became "the Christ" during His lifetime (Adoptionism)?
I had never heard of Adoptionism until now, I had to look it up, it's false. Christ and Messiah are the same; Jesus was anointed by the Spirit of God after He was baptized by John, He then was made the Messiah/Christ fulfilling the prophecy in Daniel 9:25. Jesus is the Son of God conceived in the womb of Mary by the Holy Ghost/Spirit.
Do you believe Jesus ever aquired a divine nature in His earthly life?
If you mean a divine nature is to have all the attributes that make God who He is I would have to say no. If so, Jesus could not sin or be tempted, Matthew 4:1Hebrews 4:15. If so, Jesus living a perfect life without sin is meaningless. Jesus could not have died; Jesus was given the power of the Holy Spirit when He was anointed the Messiah. After He rose from the dead God gave Jesus all power in heaven and on earth, Matthew 28:18. God raised and placed Jesus on His right side, Ephesians 1:21-23. Jesus did not return to where He was before, God the Father placed everything under Jesus God's only begotten Son's feet and Jesus will reign until the last enemy is destroyed, 1 Corinthians 15:24-28.
Acts 20:7 makes clear that gathering of the saints occurred on the first day of the week to bolster the collection made according to 1 Corinthians 16:2. The prescident is really from the fact that Christ fulfilled Pentacost which was the 8th day of the week (or Sunday) in the O.T. times was celebrated 50 days after the Passover.
Since we are not to have certain days to be held above others as Romans 14:5-6 indicates; we have no right to dictate either Saturday or Sunday for worship as I see it. Again; the Old Testament command was for Israel specifically as anyone in the land who disrespected the Sabbath was severely punished (see Deuteronomy 5:14). Other laws in the Old Testament such as marriage were clearly upheld even with pagan societies (as we see with the case of John the Baptist when he was imprisoned for contesting with the marriage status of a secular leader married to his brother's wife). Murder was evident with Cain well before the law came out. The fact is that Saturday worship can no longer be as it was without the sacrifices and other ordinances of the O.T. times which have been gone since the temple was destroyed in 70 AD. Christ is our Passover now ( 1 Corinthians 5:7) and the Son of Man is Lord of the Sabbath ( Matthew 12:8).
We also need to consider what Paul stated to those who were coming from pagan societies. He said in Acts 15:29 to avoid eating blood; or strangled animals (often done in pagan rituals) as well as sexual immorality. If Saturday worship was required you would expect something would be mentioned as all other things in the Commandments which are throughout the New Testament in the Gospels and Epistles.
There are further concerns with Adventist doctrines and Ellen White which I am not going to get into detail here; but this often is an added reason for this and other issues of contention. I agree that the edict of Milan enforcing Sunday worship is wrong also.
It would be interesting to do a survey among professing believers. How important would it be in heaven if there was a comment lacking about a favorite sports team; vacations or possessions in discussions among believers? Would we lament that we didn't have time to boast of a particular accomplishment of ourselves or another family member? Or; to really find out if the rubber meets the road would we be sad in the light of His presence above if we missed out on a juicy tidbit about another brother or someone in the world who annoys us?
This commentary is not debating if worldly matters are ever right to discuss. We should focus; always in directing conversation towards the Lord whether it is among others in the faith or to reach nonbelievers. Idle chatter doesn't MATTER otherwise. And IDOLS that we flap our jaws in adoration and praise means that we are no better than the world.
A good remedy for all this; of course is to keep our mouths shut unless we can say something edifying (which I have been admonished about in the past). The fear of the Lord should cause us to consider what we say if nothing else since every word we speak will be accounted for ( Matthew 12:36). It is often curse words and other vulgar statements which we consider here; certainly not to be excluded. But all the vanity of life; the things of this world such as pride are our responsibility to steer away from as 1 John 2:16 states (along with the lust of the eyes). No one needs to blurt out how fat and ugly someone is just as much as someone's physical beauty shouldn't be idolized.
If we enter church with a proactive mindset that we will look for people with needs to offer prayer; we will encourage others with scriptures to edify and other like practices that is a start. Those who are wise will avoid having to involve themselves in any conversation just to fit in. The time to "play church" is over. It is sink or swim. (see Luke 21:36).
I have been presented with a question which gave rise to another question:
In Matthew 12:49 Jesus refers to His brothers and sisters and even His mother as His followers whom He is surrounded by. This He replies when asked by His biological family. Should it then be considered possible that the commandment of "Honor you father and your mother" refers to your elderly persons within the Body of Christ as your "mothers and fathers", and not your biological parents?
If we are to be willing to hate our father and mother and ... ( Luke 14:26) to be a disciple, does these again refer to our biological parents?
Could someone with Hebrew understandings assist me by explaining if there is differences in the term mother and father in the different verses, and what is actual intended?
Here's my understanding of this section of scripture. Matthew 12:46-50 gives us the true understanding of family.
It says in Verse 50, "whoever will do the will of my Father."
The Lord puts a new dimension on family. And we all have our blood relatives and blood family, but Jesus said spirit is thicker than blood. Jesus says that true family are those whoever will be doing the will of my Father.
People will often ask, "What is the will that the Father says we are supposed to be doing? But that's not what it says!
It is giving an evidence and a characteristic of somebody that is saved, because somebody that is saved will be doing the will of the Father.
That is their motive. That's what they are seeking. That's what they want to do. They want to please God.
It is not something we have to do. It is something that we do because of the persuasion of God's Spirit leading us to do it. That is the characteristic of a person that is saved. And that is the person who is doing the will of the Father.
Sometimes people lose family for various reasons. What do we tell them? I guess we could tell them that if they lose family, to go it all alone.
If your family has been split up, and they are Christians, we can tell them to get into a fellowship with the other believers because you have got more moms and dads, and brothers and sisters, than you can count. Join God's family.
So Jesus put a new light on family. Your mother and brothers are out here. Who are my mother and my brothers? My disciples!
And this gospel of the kingdom shall be preached in all the world for a witness unto all nations; and then shall the end come. Matthew 24:14
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Thank you for your reply. However, my point is what JESUS said and what we have learned from Him establishing here the 2nd Covenant. By the way, remember what my Lord JESUS said: Matthew 12:42
42 The queen of the south shall rise up in the Judgment with this generation, and shall condemn it: for she came from the uttermost parts of the earth to hear the wisdom of Solomon; and, behold, a greater than Solomon is here.
My Lord JESUS said that "when he, the Spirit of truth, is come, he will guide you into all truth: for he shall not speak of himself; but whatsoever he shall hear, that shall he speak: and he will shew you things to come. He shall glorify me: for he shall receive of mine, and shall shew it unto you. All things that the Father hath are mine: therefore said I, that he shall take of mine, and shall shew it unto you- John 16:13-15.
About works of men, JESUS said: Maatthew 12:34-45
34 O generation of vipers, how can ye, being evil, speak good things? for out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaketh.
35 A good man out of the good treasure of the heart bringeth forth good things: and an evil man out of the evil treasure bringeth forth evil things.
36 But I say unto you, That every idle word that men shall speak, they shall give account thereof in the Day of Judgment.
37 For by thy words thou shalt be justified, and by thy words thou shalt be condemned.
43 When the unclean spirit is gone out of a man, he walketh through dry places, seeking rest, and findeth none.
44 Then he saith, I will return into my house from whence I came out; and when he is come, he findeth it empty, swept, and garnished.
45 Then goeth he, and taketh with himself seven other spirits more wicked than himself, and they enter in and dwell there: and the last state of that man is worse than the first. Even so shall it be also unto this wicked generation.
We use Brothern to loosely today. Everyone amongst us is not a Brother or a Sister!
Look at the example Jesus gives in Matthew 12:47-50.
"Then one said unto him, Behold, thy mother and thy brethren stand without, desiring to speak with thee.
But he answered and said unto him that told him, Who is my mother? and who are my brethren?
And he stretched forth his hand toward his disciples, and said, Behold my mother and my brethren.
For whosoever shall do the will of my Father which is in heaven, the same is my brother, and sister, and mother.
Romans 12:3 says not to think of himself more highly than he ought to think; but to think soberly, according as God hath dealt to every man the measure of faith.
We all have flaws and we're all of one body ministering by the same Spirit, having gifts differing according to the grace that is given to us by "THE GIFT" (Christ Spirit.) We are to exercise those gifts by the power of Christ Spirit.
We are to Love one another; I've declared that on this site since I've been on it using John 13:34-35 as a springboard.
Also, 1 John 4:20-21 and Matthew 7:15-16.
We shall be known by our fruit, not our gifts!
CAN YOU GENERATE THIS ON YOUR OWN?
Love amongst the brothern is not partial.
It's not determined by race, wealth, political parties, Gender, status in the church, or one's eschatology.
Love at its highest level is Agape. It's caused by the Holyspirit that knits us as one. It's to be totally given over to.
I've seen where one says he have the gift of discernment but yet he shuns other Brothern.
If you have an issue with a brother, you restore him. Galatians 6:1-4.
We must look out for each other. James 5:20 says, "Whoever turns a sinner from the error of their way will save them from death and cover over a multitude of sins." Confrontation may be difficult, but it is not loving to allow a professing Christian to continue in a sin that will bring God's consequences upon him.
Firstly, I dind't understand reading your reply-part 1- why you have started it running away from the main focus of my post, I did not write anything about crucifixion and resurrection of JESUS, so, what you wrote has nothing to do with Matthew 24.
Your spirit tried to justify this undesirable behavior mentioning Acts 1:6-7. But the worst is that you surreptitiously said that "cannot see-the disciples- ASKING JESUS for a SIGN of His second coming, the wording of Matt. 24:3:
Now, now, then you confess you BELIEVE NOT in the Holy Scriptures, in what is written in the Book of the Lord- Matthew 24:3-4KJV:
-3...the disciples came unto JESUS privately, literally saying,"Tell us...what shall be the SIGN of THY COMING, and of the END the WORLD?"
-4 JESUS answered and said unto the disciples(AND TO ME TOO),Take heed that no man deceive you. As you can see, you did not deceive me with your words, actually it is impossible you deceive me.
In your third sentence you confess that years ago was like a dog studing end-time prophecies, and reading Matthew 4 "the words looked like they were 20 times larger it was like they were jumping off the page" , I must say i don't believe in cunningly devised fables.
You said "that a warning we need to take to heart, your studies changed from then on you still can say you have much to learn", ok in fact you "have much to learn" as you said, you have lamp but it already went out then your spirit tries to feed you with chaff and tares according to your reply.
My Lord JESUS left very very clear,saying: Matthew 12:35-37KJV
35 ... an evil man out of the evil treasure bringeth forth evil things.
36But I say unto you,That every IDLE WORD that men shall speak,they shall give account thereof in the Day of Judgment(that is the seventh and last Day,or seventh and last millennium).
37For by thy words thou shalt be justified,and by thy words thou shalt be condemned.
The Word is GOD- John 1:1,self-executing.Take care or get ready
31 Wherefore I say unto you, All manner of sin and blasphemy shall be forgiven unto men: but the blasphemy against the Holy Ghost shall not be forgiven unto men.
32 And whosoever speaketh a word against the Son of man, it shall be forgiven him: but whosoever speaketh against the Holy Ghost, it shall not be forgiven him, neither in this world, neither in the world to come.
JESUS left very clear sayng: Out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaketh, O generation of vipers, how can ye, being evil, speak good things?- Matthew 12:34. According to the your message you think or imagine to be a preacher of the Word of GOD, the Word is GOD, self-executing, understand? and in your preaching you interpreted 2Thessalonians2:3, saying: >>>> Let no man(YOURSELF; your carnal mind, where SATAN plays) DECEIVE YOU, 2Thessalonians2:4 Who(that man of sin, that man of unbelief) OPPOSESTH(truth and light)and exalts HIMSELF(his carnal mind) above all that is called GOD;of that is worshipped,so that HE sitteth in the TEMPLE OF GOD(the Lord God Almighty and the LAMB are the TEMPLE,not Jerusalem),
showing HIMSELF(by the wisdom of himself)that HE(and all his supposed free will) is GOD.
We should not accept that sin will always play a part in our lives!
God is not a sinner, and if you are a true child of God you will not be saying you can't stop sinning. Worse than telling yourself that you can't stop sinning, is telling others that they can't stop sinning! The phrase misery loves company is so true here. This mindset is wrong, and goes directly agains all of the bible scripture.This thought that you can never stop sinning is from Satan, and he has convinced you that you can't stop sinning. If you believe this , and live this, you will certainly die as a sinner, and never achieve becoming a true child of God.
God's children strive to live without sin, and eventually succeed and win the race! Those who have been born of God (Born Again) should no longer be a part of this world (we have died to this world) and we should no longer be slaves to satan/sin that is inherent to the world.
So, if we are truly Born Again we are now becoming the children of God and not children of this world.
Scripture goes on to state that children of God are gods: I have said, Ye are gods; and all of you are children of the most High. Psalm 82:6
But as many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name: Which were born, not of blood, nor of the will of the flesh, nor of the will of man, but of God. John 1:12-13
Matthew 12:50 "For whosoever shall do the will of my Father which is in heaven, the same is my brother, and sister, and mother."
Be ye therefore perfect, even as your Father which is in heaven is perfect. Matthew 5:48
Thank you for your response, your words of encouragement mean a lot to me, as well all the relevant scripture regarding worshiping God in Spirit and Truth, and overcoming sin. I agree with all, and if we our honest with ourselves and take the time to evaluate our true walk with Christ we should be conforming to the scripture you mentioned such as 2 Corinthians 5:17 and 1 John 1:5-6 and if born again should have a mind like Christ 1 Corinthians 2:16
Scripture tells us we can have a mind like Christ! Not conformed to this world, but have renewed minds, and prove what is good, and acceptable, and perfect will of God Romans 12:2 Sinning is not acceptable to God, and for Christians to maintain the steady drum beat that they can't stop sinning is unbelievable per all of the scripture telling us that we are required STOP sinning, even including Jesus telling us that with Faith nothing is impossible for us! Matt 17:20
We are supposed to be as HOLY as Jesus and walk like him.Through the Spirit of God we CAN stop sinning. He that saith he abideth in him ought himself also so to walk, even as he walked. 1 John 2:6 For whosoever shall do the will of my Father which is in heaven, the same is my brother, and sister, and mother. Matthew 12:50 The Bible emphasises several times that we are supposed to be holy:Ye shall be holy: for I theLordyour God am holy. Leviticus 19:2
Be ye therefore perfect, even as your Father which is in heaven is perfect. Matt 5:48 Frankie, I think we can both agree that being perfect is without sin. But the multitude of worldly Christains say they can't ever be perfect and will always be sinners in this life - so they are saying Jesus/God is lying in Matt 5:48 and they are not accepting this Truth!
You cannot be saved from DEATH until God sends his angles to HARVEST the SEED.
ONLY mature SEED are harvested, immature SEED are scattered to the wind as is chaff.
Fruit produces SEED, the fruit never look like the SEED, the SEED always looks like the SEED that was planted.
Luke 11:8 Now the PARABLE is this: the SEED is the word of God.
John 1:14 ..... and the word (SEED) was made flesh.
Hebrews 9:28 So Christ (the SEED) was once offered for the sins of many; and unto them that look for him (TRUTH, Christ is truth) he (the SEED) shall APPEAR the SECOND TIME.
Matthew 24:30 Then SHALL APPEAR the sign (the image oft he SEED) of the son of man in heaven (IN YOU).... the son of man COMING in the CLOUDS of heaven (IN YOU).
Colossians 1:27 .... this mystery ..... Christ in YOU ......
Matthew 12:28 But if I CAST OUT DEVILS by the Spirit (TRUTH) of God; then the Kingdom of God has COME TO YOU.
It says, If any man see his brother, that is, a Christian, sin a sin which is not unto death, he shall ask, and he shall give him life for them that sin not unto death.
It's God's will that if I see a brother or sister involved in a sin that is not unto death, and that's the rejection of Christ, but I can pray for every born again believer, and God will minister to them, because God will not allow His people to live in habitual sin, and I can pray according to His will.
But then he goes on to say that there is a sin unto death: And I do not say that he shall pray for it.
1 John 5:17 says that all unrighteousness is sin. That's the non-believer.And there is a sin that's not unto death.
All the sins that Christians commit are not unto death. The only sin in the bible that is unto death is in Matthew 12:31-32.
Jesus said wherefore I say unto you, all manner of sin and blasphemy shall be forgiven unto men: but the blasphemy against the Holy Ghost shall not be forgiven unto men.
And whosoever speaks a word against the Son of Man, it shall be forgiven him: but whosoever speaks against the Holy Ghost, it shall not be forgiven him, neither in this world, neither in the world to come.
The Holy Spirit is here to convict people of their need of Christ. If you reject His testimony, you have committed the unpardonable sin.
So he says I can't pray for someone who is rejecting Christ. I can't pray for them to get saved because that's between them and God. I just pray for His will to be done.
And He earnestly warned them not to tell who He was. ( Mark 3:12).
This and 22 other verses apparently exist in the Gospels where Jesus warned either people or the demons cast out of individuals not to tell anyone who He was. This seems to be particularly focused on the area where the Jews were; for we see exceptions with these examples:
They went across the lake to the region of the Gerasenes. ( Mark 5:1). Here after Jesus cast the legion of demons out of a man he told him to NOT follow Him right away "Go home to your own people and tell them how much the Lord has done for you, and how he has had mercy on you." ( Mark 5:19).
We see the same principal with the woman at the well. John 4 doesn't give any explicit command for the woman to stop; but she goes to her town and brings others; who come to faith and He remains 2 days with an unnamed town of Samaritans who also come to faith after hearing from Christ after the woman told them to come.
These incidences above show how the contrast exists with the Pharisees and religious order who were hell bent literally to oppose and try to destroy Christ from the onset. Christ had to ensure that His time wouldn't come until 3 1/2 years after he started the public ministry; as it was there were about 10 attempts on His life before the Crucifixion at the set time. This also showed a lack of faith in general among His own people; a Prophet is not honored in his hometown ( Mark 6:4). Contrast that with the pasage above and others where He stayed multiple days and no doubt they didn't want Him to leave.
This situation lead; no doubt to Jesus speaking in Parables which at one point at least He ONLY did when speaking to the crowds. ( Matthew 13:34; Mark 4:34). This is quite astonishing and shows how facts alone don't convince hardened hearts. Perhaps it allowed less people to blasphemy the Spirit the unforgiveable sin or cause other to be persuaded such ( Matthew 12:31).
Simply put; the Holy Spirit is the method of displaying Christ's presence on earth. Hebrews 6:4-8 as well as 1 Peter 2:3 show that those who have tasted the heavenly gift and other things of the Spirit as well as the powers of the coming age to be renewed once again to repentance once fallen away. This ties in for several reasons to the text in Matthew 12:31. We must remember first of all that much like Satan Himself Christ's works were made manifest for all men to see and thus nothing more could be done after witnessing undeniable miracles such as blind being healed which had never been seen in O.T. times. Also; of course the Pharisees accused him of using the power of Beelzebub to perform His miracles; despite the fact that the Spirit even before the church age was there such as with John the Baptist to convict the world of sin; righteousness and judgment to come. ( John 16:8). The Pharisees denied the Divinity of Christ and that was after all they saw and Christ saying that He was the I AM ( John 8:58). Therefore they wouldn't accept worshipping Him and His Divinity as a member of the Godhead was hidden from them. Therefore Satan was truly their God. ( John 8:44).
Satan Himself was built on pride and self-exaltation therefore was mad enough to desire worship for himself despite being in heaven and seeing God's glory and no doubt the earth and the rest of Creation therefore he was given no chance of repentance ( Job 38:7). We see singing in that verse; something Lucifer as Cheribum was designed to do in charge of worship but it was turned to evil. By default then Satan is the God and loyalty of all who do this to the Spirit; most will sin and admit God is righteous or simply hate God or be afraid (as in the sixth seal); eventually Satan will be sent for those who LOVE not the truth but a lie ( 2 Thess. 2:10). Like it or not Antichrist will eventually blasphemy God and yet all those not in the Book of Life will worship him and be damned ( Rev. 13:8).
Matthew 10:36 And a man's foes shall be they of his own household.
Matthew 13:58 And he did not many mighty works there because of their unbelief.
Jesus despite His statement in Matthew 12:48 (He replied to him, "Who is my mother, and who are my brothers?) Jesus demonstrated at the cross his concern for his mother's care and had John live there with her in John 19. It was even worded in the same way "behold your mother"and "behold your son" in verses 26 and 27. We see from the verses above as well as others that family is often the most dificult to reach; even in Christ's case James only believed after the cross. ( John 7:5) shows this; along with unbelief of other brothers at the time. If a sinless Christ was viewed in His hometown as merely being the Son of Joseph and Mary at the time despite the virgin birth being a reality; then of course the only other option would have been as the Pharisees said in John 8:41. And of course we can't expect anything more; since we indeed are all sinners saved by grace. Our family will see something different about us from what we once were; especially if there is a dramatic change in behavior due to certain outward manifestations of behavior radically different after salvation. Of course all of our past mistakes and human weaknesses will be scrutinized by those who grew up with us.
We have challenges from Jesus in both loving God more than our own family as well as the mandates to honor our Father and mother. Clearly our Lord understood the right balance and we should learn from His example. Our natural family isn't our spiritual one; it may or may not become that in time. In my own life not only do I have 2 unbelieving parents in their 90's; NO one in my family to the best of my knowledge are saved. Having to live at home at present therefore means my walk and behavior has to be consistent. Preaching is not going to accomplish much; they are aware I have been a believer 40 years+
Thanks for that comment David0921. I do understand that verse differently to you. Actually, I see that the Ninevites are already under God's Judgement (except those who may actually have had repentance over their sins & coming destruction, to a real heart seeking after this God of Israel). While under judgement ( Matthew 12:41), they will condemn 'this generation' for not believing in Christ & His message, just as they had believed & repented because of Jonah's preaching to them. I don't see that the Ninevites were saved because of what happened when Jonah was with them, since there is no further word as to how they were brought into a knowledge of God & His demands upon people. All they knew was that they had repented & were saved then - how they will fare in their coming Judgement can only then be speculation, just as whether the Queen of Sheba is also saved, she who will rise in judgement against these Jews.
We know for a certainty that these 120000 Ninevites were saved because of Matthew 12:41 The men of Nineveh shall rise in judgment with this generation, and shall condemn it: because they repented at the preaching of Jonas; and, behold, a greater than Jonas is here.
All True Believers will be resurrected and raptured to usher in the final judgment at the Last Day in condemnation of those that have not been saved. Their very resurrection and rapture is in itself a condemnation. This is the Marriage Supper of the Lamb. I believe there is no other Biblical way to understand Matt 12:41.
Also, the Bible clearly teaches that the brokenness before God and repentance exhibited by these Ninevits is an Essential characteristic of those that God saves. They are in fact, one of the most dramatic pictures and examples of Salvation that we find in the Bible.
God is also demonstrating in this picture that He does not require an extensive knowledge of scripture to be saved. But He does require a "broken and contrite heart" and recognition of our sinful condition and need for God's Mercy, which can only come from God Himself.
Thank you for your comments David0921. I re-read the Book of Jonah & agree to some things you shared (the wickedness of the Ninevites & God's Judgement against them). But you wrote, "God had worked in their hearts to save them". I think that you meant that salvation from their sins would be their blessed end.
Looking at this Book, I learn: Jonah 1:2 (the wickedness of Nineveh had come before God & He planned for their destruction).
Jonah 3:2 (a command came a second time to Jonah to preach God's Word to them). Jonah 3:4 (Jonah's message of destruction, unless they repent & turn from evil). Jonah 3:5 (the people (& king vv 6-9) believed the message of coming destruction, repented & left off their evil ways). Jonah 3:10 (God recognized their repentance & renunciation of evil). And what did God do as a result? Were they granted salvation for their hearts of sin, or were they granted salvation from an impending destruction by God?
Moving forward to our Lord's time with the Jewish religious leaders; & to Matthew 12:38-42. Jesus spoke of the sign of Jonah (Christ in the grave), & "the men of Nineveh rising in judgement & condemnation against this generation". How could these Ninevites accomplish this? Because they heard, repented & obeyed God's Word of destruction against them whilst the Jews refused. And so also would the Queen of Sheba speak against this generation. These folk of Nineveh & Sheba would condemn the Jews for their rejection of Christ & His Message of repentance. The Ninevites repented & were not destroyed (unlike those of Sodom who faced utter destruction), but did their repentance grant them salvation & eternal life? If you read it as that it did, then I would say that I don't agree. Onto Page 2.
If the belief that a beleiver does not commit sin any longer after they have been born again and saved, then how do you explain:
1. Matthew 12:43-45, "When the unclean spirit is gone out of a man, he walketh through dry places, seeking rest, and findeth none.Then he saith, I will return into my house from whence I came out; and when he is come, he findeth it empty, swept, and garnished.Then goeth he, and taketh with himself seven other spirits more wicked than himself, and they enter in and dwell there: and the last state of that man is worse than the first. Even so shall it be also unto this wicked generation."
2. How do you explain the parable of the prodigal son.
3. How do you explain the 5 unwise virgins that were left out of the marriage.
In your answer you said that 1 John 1:8-9 is for unbelievers. But in 1 John 2:1 it says, "MY LITTLE CHILDREN, these things write I unto you, that ye sin not. And if any man sin (because this will be eventually done sometime), we have an advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the righteous:"
In verses 8-9 it says, "He that saith he is in the light, and hateth his brother, is in darkness even until now. He that loveth his brother abideth in the light, and there is none occasion of stumbling in him." Pay attention that HIS BROTHER, then it says that i he hates him then he stays in darkness. That means that it is possible to hate his brother, hence doing a sin. And that is for a believer.
The Son of Man is Lord of the Sabbath ( Matt. 12:8; also in Mark 2:28). This would legitimize commemoration of Christ on Sunday as the early church seemed to do. Naturally; we need to take seriously devoting time on Sunday as a day of rest if it is a substitute for the O.T. law; however being that we aren't to follow things dogmatically as Colossians 2:16 or Galatians 4:10-11 suggest it is clear that in the Age of Grace there is some latitude there. Also; it is the attitude of the hearts that dictates what would be necessary work as Matthew 12:11 indicates in the example of saving an animal from a ditch when Christ was confronted with healing on the Sabbath; or eating grains of wheat in the field (considered "work").
We need to consider what was going on in the Exodus years when there were strict orders on Manna as a sort of initial principle. There people were ordered to collect for two days on the Sabbath eve; which contradicted the normal daily routine where it would rot and they were specifically told NOT to save any. Such verses as the example in Numbers should at least have us soberly examine ourselves and how preoccupied we are when we come together as a local church. Some Reformed or OPC churches will not discuss anything outside scripture on Sundays. While that may be a bit too strict; all the endless banter which seems to be discussed before services in particular could use some serious editing. Not only does it detract from the sanctity of the fellowship but it keeps those needing prayer from expressing those needs; as well as squelching opportunities to offer prayers over the cacaphony. An attitude of prayer; as well as discussing the Word and God's attributes should be something the Pastor and Elders motivate people to do. A swift rebuke once in a while in convicting messages on that subject would probably be in order as well. Knowing how deep a conversation can go can quickly determine those who God has led to Disciple us or not
43When an unclean spirit comes out of a man, it passes through arid places seeking rest and does not find it. 44Then it says, 'I will return to the house I left.' On its return, it finds the house vacant, swept clean, and put in order. 45Then it goes and brings with it seven other spirits more wicked than itself, and they go in and dwell there; and the final plight of that man is worse than the first. So will it be with this wicked generation."
This passage would seem to infer that a person could have an evil spirit removed somehow; but without the Holy Spirit taking up residence post salvation. ( John 14:23). We are reminded of the sons of Sceva who had demons come out of someone they were trying to exorcize and rend them. ( Acts 19:14-16). We also could conceivably be reminded of those Jesus cast demons from; since some may not have been truly saved after that. We see evidence of that with the case of 1 leper that came back to praise Him while the others went away. ( Luke 17:17-18). We see warnings also of Christ saying sin no more lest something worse happen to you ( John 5:14). In that case it would probably be death as he had been paralyzed for decades apparently due to some sin.
We can think of the condition in the Synagogue where Jesus cast out a demon early on ( John 4:33 and following verses); and consider how the religious and self righteous piety of the Pharisees caused them to have this condemnation in particular.
A more sobering thought is many "ministries" today who are seemingly obsessed with casting out demons (in some cases it is proven the same person is involved over and over as a likely paid participant for crowd appeal). I personally have a big problem with one particular teacher who often baptizes people (and says is necessary for salvation) and demons come out.
We can hardly call someone in that condition in a sound mind ready to make such a commitment to the Body of Christ as Baptism signifies.
35 A good man out of the good treasure of the heart bringeth forth good things: and an evil man out of the evil treasure bringeth forth evil things.
36 But I say unto you, That every idle word that men shall speak, they shall give account thereof in the Day of Judgment. (that is the seventh and last GOD's Day or seventh and last millennium)
37 For by thy words thou shalt be justified, and by thy words thou shalt be condemned.
Revelation 16:15
15 Behold, I come as a thief.
Blessed is he that watcheth, and keepeth his garments, lest he walk naked, and they see his shame.
The Pharisees; who derided Christ throughout His public ministry had this to say shortly before the crucifixion. Jesus shut them out; as well as remaining silent soon after during Pilate's interrogation. Self exaltation and justification wasn't necessary for Christ didn't seek to be served but to serve and give His life for a ransom for many. ( Mark 10:45) The fact is; the Pharisees and religious leaders should have known who He was; and therefore were operating in deliberate blindness; uniquely qualifying them to commit the unpardonable sin. (See Matthew 12:24).
Part of the concept of the verse on "casting pearls before swine" ( Matt. 7:6) relates to this. Jesus hid meanings of the Parables to others who were deliberately spiritually blind (see Matthew 13:34; and Matthew 13:15; Isaiah 42:19-20). John 9:39-41 shows the end of an entire chapter related to a blind man's healing; where Jesus explains how men are made blind to the truth; but the Pharisees after asking if that was the intention of what Jesus said were still left with the judgment for themselves because they could see and were responsible for their sin.
These are sobering reminders that man is not justified in any righteousness of their own and estranged from God from the womb ( Psalm 58:3); yet has a conscience given by God where men are judged more harshly that know the law ( Romans 2:15).
Jesus warned that judgment would be worse for those cities that rejected Him than for Sodom and Gomorrah ( Matthew 10:15).
This attitude led to the unpardonable sin; blasphemy of the Holy Spirit where Beelzebub was attributed to Christ's healing rather than God ( Matthew 12:22). The issue of forgiveness of sins was truly where the problem was; since the miracles were manifold.
Nonetheless; Jesus wouldn't use His power to save Himself on the cross or when unbelief was present (see Matthew 13:58).
Part 1
Even though there is a distinction between the children of God and the children of the world the scripture says to be kind to all men. Galatians 6:10.
However, we're not all Brothern.
John 1:11-12 says "He came unto his own, and his own received him not.
But as many as received him, to them gave he power to become the "sons of God, even to them that believe on his name"
Jesus also said in Matthew 12:50 "For whosoever shall do the will of my Father which is in heaven, the same is my brother, and sister, and mother.
Ephesians 2:19 states Now therefore ye are no more strangers and foreigners, but fellow citizens with the saints, and of the household of God.
So, there is a clear distinction in scripture between God's children and those who haven't received him.
1 John 3:9-10 covers this well, "Whosoever is born of God doth not commit sin; for his seed remaineth in him: and he cannot sin, because he is born of God.
In this the children of God are manifest, and the children of the devil: whosoever doeth not righteousness is not of God, neither he that loveth not his brother.
"Sons of God" emphasizes a natural, internal relationship with God rather than an external adoption. Becoming God's children involves a real change and transformation, not just a change in title or position. We partake in the divine nature.
All people are not naturally God's children. We must be born again through faith in Christ to become God's children.
This separates us from Adam.
We are now joint heirs with Christ. Romans 8:14-17 "For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, they are the sons of God.
For ye have not received the spirit of bondage again to fear; but ye have received the Spirit of adoption, whereby we cry, Abba, Father. The Spirit itself beareth witness with our spirit, that we are the children of God:
And if children, then heirs; heirs of God, and joint-heirs with Christ; if so be that we suffer with him, that we may be also glorified together.
See part 2
In the study of Creation there appear to be at least 2 different accounts in Genesis but they are emphasizing different things and hence complement one another ( Genesis 1 and 2). There are many Psalms related to Creation as well. We also see in Jesus quoting almost every book including reference to the Creation ( Matthew 19:8 on divorce); as well as the literal story of Jonah as to how it relates to the Son of Man ( Matthew 12:40). These accounts show the truth of the Old Testament and aren't able to hold water to arguments that things were merely symbolic.
One could argue as an atheist that since the same things seem to happen over and over again in scripture they can't be true; and/or they are borrowed from pagan traditions. Ecclesiastes 1:9 says that there is "nothing new under the sun." If we study things like prophecy there are more often than not multiple fulfillments; we can look at the earlier example of the Temple and abomination therein and see not just Antiochus but also the siege of Rome in 70 AD and to a lesser extent around 130 AD and the final application for Antichrist himself yet to come. The same pattern exists with Psalm 22 and descriptions foreshadowing Christ and demonstrating David's situation; some seem mutually exclusive others overlapping. Jesus was frequently hounded and persecuted much as David was; the difference being He was sinless; David was not. The whole story of the death; burial and Resurrection is seen with the pagan legends and religions as well but if we believe Satan is real he always is coming as a substitute for or against the God of the Bible; as we see in the persona of the Antichrist Beast and world economic and religious system. Satan knows scripture well enough to quote it; and we wouldn't expect anything less from the enemy of God's people.
We can see in the miracles of Christ similar things to the ministry of Elijah. Healing of the blind is unique ( John 9:32-33
You can look at the following Scriptures to show that Jesus did have siblings, albeit half-siblings now by both Joseph & Mary. Matthew 12:46,47; Matthew 13:55,56; Mark 6:3; John 2:12; John 7:3,5,10; Acts 1:14; 1 Corinthians 9:5; Galatians 1:19.
Part 3 Trinity discussion,
Do you believe the Son is a created being?
What is the meaning of created? Does it mean something that is made out of nothing? I would have to say no, Jesus is the Son of God who was conceived in the womb of Mary, Matthew 1:20 Luke 1:35, I do not think I would say He was created.
If so, when did He come into existence?
In God's plan before anything and physically when He was conceived in Mary's womb.
Do you believe that the Son is only human in nature?
Jesus is the Son of God fully human but without sin same as the first Adam, Scripture is clear when Jesus was baptized, He was anointed with the Holy Ghost/Spirit without measure, John 3:34. All the works of Jesus were done by the Spirit of God, Matthew 4:16 Matthew 12:28 Acts 10:38.
Do you believe that Jesus became "the Christ" during His lifetime (Adoptionism)?
I had never heard of Adoptionism until now, I had to look it up, it's false. Christ and Messiah are the same; Jesus was anointed by the Spirit of God after He was baptized by John, He then was made the Messiah/Christ fulfilling the prophecy in Daniel 9:25. Jesus is the Son of God conceived in the womb of Mary by the Holy Ghost/Spirit.
Do you believe Jesus ever aquired a divine nature in His earthly life?
If you mean a divine nature is to have all the attributes that make God who He is I would have to say no. If so, Jesus could not sin or be tempted, Matthew 4:1 Hebrews 4:15. If so, Jesus living a perfect life without sin is meaningless. Jesus could not have died; Jesus was given the power of the Holy Spirit when He was anointed the Messiah. After He rose from the dead God gave Jesus all power in heaven and on earth, Matthew 28:18. God raised and placed Jesus on His right side, Ephesians 1:21-23. Jesus did not return to where He was before, God the Father placed everything under Jesus God's only begotten Son's feet and Jesus will reign until the last enemy is destroyed, 1 Corinthians 15:24-28.
See part 4.
Acts 20:7 makes clear that gathering of the saints occurred on the first day of the week to bolster the collection made according to 1 Corinthians 16:2. The prescident is really from the fact that Christ fulfilled Pentacost which was the 8th day of the week (or Sunday) in the O.T. times was celebrated 50 days after the Passover.
Since we are not to have certain days to be held above others as Romans 14:5-6 indicates; we have no right to dictate either Saturday or Sunday for worship as I see it. Again; the Old Testament command was for Israel specifically as anyone in the land who disrespected the Sabbath was severely punished (see Deuteronomy 5:14). Other laws in the Old Testament such as marriage were clearly upheld even with pagan societies (as we see with the case of John the Baptist when he was imprisoned for contesting with the marriage status of a secular leader married to his brother's wife). Murder was evident with Cain well before the law came out. The fact is that Saturday worship can no longer be as it was without the sacrifices and other ordinances of the O.T. times which have been gone since the temple was destroyed in 70 AD. Christ is our Passover now ( 1 Corinthians 5:7) and the Son of Man is Lord of the Sabbath ( Matthew 12:8).
We also need to consider what Paul stated to those who were coming from pagan societies. He said in Acts 15:29 to avoid eating blood; or strangled animals (often done in pagan rituals) as well as sexual immorality. If Saturday worship was required you would expect something would be mentioned as all other things in the Commandments which are throughout the New Testament in the Gospels and Epistles.
There are further concerns with Adventist doctrines and Ellen White which I am not going to get into detail here; but this often is an added reason for this and other issues of contention. I agree that the edict of Milan enforcing Sunday worship is wrong also.
It would be interesting to do a survey among professing believers. How important would it be in heaven if there was a comment lacking about a favorite sports team; vacations or possessions in discussions among believers? Would we lament that we didn't have time to boast of a particular accomplishment of ourselves or another family member? Or; to really find out if the rubber meets the road would we be sad in the light of His presence above if we missed out on a juicy tidbit about another brother or someone in the world who annoys us?
This commentary is not debating if worldly matters are ever right to discuss. We should focus; always in directing conversation towards the Lord whether it is among others in the faith or to reach nonbelievers. Idle chatter doesn't MATTER otherwise. And IDOLS that we flap our jaws in adoration and praise means that we are no better than the world.
A good remedy for all this; of course is to keep our mouths shut unless we can say something edifying (which I have been admonished about in the past). The fear of the Lord should cause us to consider what we say if nothing else since every word we speak will be accounted for ( Matthew 12:36). It is often curse words and other vulgar statements which we consider here; certainly not to be excluded. But all the vanity of life; the things of this world such as pride are our responsibility to steer away from as 1 John 2:16 states (along with the lust of the eyes). No one needs to blurt out how fat and ugly someone is just as much as someone's physical beauty shouldn't be idolized.
If we enter church with a proactive mindset that we will look for people with needs to offer prayer; we will encourage others with scriptures to edify and other like practices that is a start. Those who are wise will avoid having to involve themselves in any conversation just to fit in. The time to "play church" is over. It is sink or swim. (see Luke 21:36).
The to me the key for understanding Matt 12:49 is found in the next verse.
Matthew 12:50
"For whosoever shall do the will of my Father which is in heaven, the same is my brother, and sister, and mother."
The key: "For whosoever shall do the will of my Father which is in heaven."
So those "who do the will of God" should be considered our: brothers, sisters, Mothers, and Fathers, Grandmothers, and Grandfathers.
GBU
In Matthew 12:49 Jesus refers to His brothers and sisters and even His mother as His followers whom He is surrounded by. This He replies when asked by His biological family. Should it then be considered possible that the commandment of "Honor you father and your mother" refers to your elderly persons within the Body of Christ as your "mothers and fathers", and not your biological parents?
If we are to be willing to hate our father and mother and ... ( Luke 14:26) to be a disciple, does these again refer to our biological parents?
Could someone with Hebrew understandings assist me by explaining if there is differences in the term mother and father in the different verses, and what is actual intended?
Thank you
Here's my understanding of this section of scripture. Matthew 12:46-50 gives us the true understanding of family.
It says in Verse 50, "whoever will do the will of my Father."
The Lord puts a new dimension on family. And we all have our blood relatives and blood family, but Jesus said spirit is thicker than blood. Jesus says that true family are those whoever will be doing the will of my Father.
People will often ask, "What is the will that the Father says we are supposed to be doing? But that's not what it says!
It is giving an evidence and a characteristic of somebody that is saved, because somebody that is saved will be doing the will of the Father.
That is their motive. That's what they are seeking. That's what they want to do. They want to please God.
It is not something we have to do. It is something that we do because of the persuasion of God's Spirit leading us to do it. That is the characteristic of a person that is saved. And that is the person who is doing the will of the Father.
Sometimes people lose family for various reasons. What do we tell them? I guess we could tell them that if they lose family, to go it all alone.
If your family has been split up, and they are Christians, we can tell them to get into a fellowship with the other believers because you have got more moms and dads, and brothers and sisters, than you can count. Join God's family.
So Jesus put a new light on family. Your mother and brothers are out here. Who are my mother and my brothers? My disciples!
Hope this helps!
And this gospel of the kingdom shall be preached in all the world for a witness unto all nations; and then shall the end come. Matthew 24:14
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They are currently ministering in Africa in the countries of Ghana, Lesotho, Botswana, South Africa, and Tanzania. In the nation of China, they are engaged in developing videos to be aired on social media platforms in that country. They have a shortwave facility in Florida and are airing programs in English and Spanish to six different regions of the world.
Greetings in Christ JESUS
Thank you for your reply. However, my point is what JESUS said and what we have learned from Him establishing here the 2nd Covenant. By the way, remember what my Lord JESUS said: Matthew 12:42
42 The queen of the south shall rise up in the Judgment with this generation, and shall condemn it: for she came from the uttermost parts of the earth to hear the wisdom of Solomon; and, behold, a greater than Solomon is here.
My Lord JESUS said that "when he, the Spirit of truth, is come, he will guide you into all truth: for he shall not speak of himself; but whatsoever he shall hear, that shall he speak: and he will shew you things to come. He shall glorify me: for he shall receive of mine, and shall shew it unto you. All things that the Father hath are mine: therefore said I, that he shall take of mine, and shall shew it unto you- John 16:13-15.
About works of men, JESUS said: Maatthew 12:34-45
34 O generation of vipers, how can ye, being evil, speak good things? for out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaketh.
35 A good man out of the good treasure of the heart bringeth forth good things: and an evil man out of the evil treasure bringeth forth evil things.
36 But I say unto you, That every idle word that men shall speak, they shall give account thereof in the Day of Judgment.
37 For by thy words thou shalt be justified, and by thy words thou shalt be condemned.
43 When the unclean spirit is gone out of a man, he walketh through dry places, seeking rest, and findeth none.
44 Then he saith, I will return into my house from whence I came out; and when he is come, he findeth it empty, swept, and garnished.
45 Then goeth he, and taketh with himself seven other spirits more wicked than himself, and they enter in and dwell there: and the last state of that man is worse than the first. Even so shall it be also unto this wicked generation.
Part 4.
We use Brothern to loosely today. Everyone amongst us is not a Brother or a Sister!
Look at the example Jesus gives in Matthew 12:47-50.
"Then one said unto him, Behold, thy mother and thy brethren stand without, desiring to speak with thee.
But he answered and said unto him that told him, Who is my mother? and who are my brethren?
And he stretched forth his hand toward his disciples, and said, Behold my mother and my brethren.
For whosoever shall do the will of my Father which is in heaven, the same is my brother, and sister, and mother.
Romans 12:3 says not to think of himself more highly than he ought to think; but to think soberly, according as God hath dealt to every man the measure of faith.
We all have flaws and we're all of one body ministering by the same Spirit, having gifts differing according to the grace that is given to us by "THE GIFT" (Christ Spirit.) We are to exercise those gifts by the power of Christ Spirit.
We are to Love one another; I've declared that on this site since I've been on it using John 13:34-35 as a springboard.
Also, 1 John 4:20-21 and Matthew 7:15-16.
We shall be known by our fruit, not our gifts!
CAN YOU GENERATE THIS ON YOUR OWN?
Love amongst the brothern is not partial.
It's not determined by race, wealth, political parties, Gender, status in the church, or one's eschatology.
Love at its highest level is Agape. It's caused by the Holyspirit that knits us as one. It's to be totally given over to.
I've seen where one says he have the gift of discernment but yet he shuns other Brothern.
If you have an issue with a brother, you restore him. Galatians 6:1-4.
We must look out for each other. James 5:20 says, "Whoever turns a sinner from the error of their way will save them from death and cover over a multitude of sins." Confrontation may be difficult, but it is not loving to allow a professing Christian to continue in a sin that will bring God's consequences upon him.
See Part 5.
Firstly, I dind't understand reading your reply-part 1- why you have started it running away from the main focus of my post, I did not write anything about crucifixion and resurrection of JESUS, so, what you wrote has nothing to do with Matthew 24.
Your spirit tried to justify this undesirable behavior mentioning Acts 1:6-7. But the worst is that you surreptitiously said that "cannot see-the disciples- ASKING JESUS for a SIGN of His second coming, the wording of Matt. 24:3:
Now, now, then you confess you BELIEVE NOT in the Holy Scriptures, in what is written in the Book of the Lord- Matthew 24:3-4KJV:
-3...the disciples came unto JESUS privately, literally saying,"Tell us...what shall be the SIGN of THY COMING, and of the END the WORLD?"
-4 JESUS answered and said unto the disciples(AND TO ME TOO),Take heed that no man deceive you. As you can see, you did not deceive me with your words, actually it is impossible you deceive me.
In your third sentence you confess that years ago was like a dog studing end-time prophecies, and reading Matthew 4 "the words looked like they were 20 times larger it was like they were jumping off the page" , I must say i don't believe in cunningly devised fables.
You said "that a warning we need to take to heart, your studies changed from then on you still can say you have much to learn", ok in fact you "have much to learn" as you said, you have lamp but it already went out then your spirit tries to feed you with chaff and tares according to your reply.
My Lord JESUS left very very clear,saying: Matthew 12:35-37KJV
35 ... an evil man out of the evil treasure bringeth forth evil things.
36But I say unto you,That every IDLE WORD that men shall speak,they shall give account thereof in the Day of Judgment(that is the seventh and last Day,or seventh and last millennium).
37For by thy words thou shalt be justified,and by thy words thou shalt be condemned.
The Word is GOD- John 1:1,self-executing.Take care or get ready
Matthew 12:31-32
31 Wherefore I say unto you, All manner of sin and blasphemy shall be forgiven unto men: but the blasphemy against the Holy Ghost shall not be forgiven unto men.
32 And whosoever speaketh a word against the Son of man, it shall be forgiven him: but whosoever speaketh against the Holy Ghost, it shall not be forgiven him, neither in this world, neither in the world to come.
JESUS left very clear sayng: Out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaketh, O generation of vipers, how can ye, being evil, speak good things?- Matthew 12:34. According to the your message you think or imagine to be a preacher of the Word of GOD, the Word is GOD, self-executing, understand? and in your preaching you interpreted 2Thessalonians2:3, saying: >>>> Let no man(YOURSELF; your carnal mind, where SATAN plays) DECEIVE YOU, 2Thessalonians2:4 Who(that man of sin, that man of unbelief) OPPOSESTH(truth and light)and exalts HIMSELF(his carnal mind) above all that is called GOD;of that is worshipped,so that HE sitteth in the TEMPLE OF GOD(the Lord God Almighty and the LAMB are the TEMPLE,not Jerusalem),
showing HIMSELF(by the wisdom of himself)that HE(and all his supposed free will) is GOD.
We should not accept that sin will always play a part in our lives!
God is not a sinner, and if you are a true child of God you will not be saying you can't stop sinning. Worse than telling yourself that you can't stop sinning, is telling others that they can't stop sinning! The phrase misery loves company is so true here. This mindset is wrong, and goes directly agains all of the bible scripture.This thought that you can never stop sinning is from Satan, and he has convinced you that you can't stop sinning. If you believe this , and live this, you will certainly die as a sinner, and never achieve becoming a true child of God.
God's children strive to live without sin, and eventually succeed and win the race! Those who have been born of God (Born Again) should no longer be a part of this world (we have died to this world) and we should no longer be slaves to satan/sin that is inherent to the world.
So, if we are truly Born Again we are now becoming the children of God and not children of this world.
Scripture goes on to state that children of God are gods: I have said, Ye are gods; and all of you are children of the most High. Psalm 82:6
But as many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name: Which were born, not of blood, nor of the will of the flesh, nor of the will of man, but of God. John 1:12-13
Matthew 12:50 "For whosoever shall do the will of my Father which is in heaven, the same is my brother, and sister, and mother."
Be ye therefore perfect, even as your Father which is in heaven is perfect. Matthew 5:48
Thank you for your response, your words of encouragement mean a lot to me, as well all the relevant scripture regarding worshiping God in Spirit and Truth, and overcoming sin. I agree with all, and if we our honest with ourselves and take the time to evaluate our true walk with Christ we should be conforming to the scripture you mentioned such as 2 Corinthians 5:17 and 1 John 1:5-6 and if born again should have a mind like Christ 1 Corinthians 2:16
Scripture tells us we can have a mind like Christ! Not conformed to this world, but have renewed minds, and prove what is good, and acceptable, and perfect will of God Romans 12:2 Sinning is not acceptable to God, and for Christians to maintain the steady drum beat that they can't stop sinning is unbelievable per all of the scripture telling us that we are required STOP sinning, even including Jesus telling us that with Faith nothing is impossible for us! Matt 17:20
We are supposed to be as HOLY as Jesus and walk like him.Through the Spirit of God we CAN stop sinning. He that saith he abideth in him ought himself also so to walk, even as he walked. 1 John 2:6 For whosoever shall do the will of my Father which is in heaven, the same is my brother, and sister, and mother. Matthew 12:50 The Bible emphasises several times that we are supposed to be holy:Ye shall be holy: for I theLordyour God am holy. Leviticus 19:2
Be ye therefore perfect, even as your Father which is in heaven is perfect. Matt 5:48 Frankie, I think we can both agree that being perfect is without sin. But the multitude of worldly Christains say they can't ever be perfect and will always be sinners in this life - so they are saying Jesus/God is lying in Matt 5:48 and they are not accepting this Truth!
GBU
What is one SAVED from?
DEATH
You cannot be saved from DEATH until God sends his angles to HARVEST the SEED.
ONLY mature SEED are harvested, immature SEED are scattered to the wind as is chaff.
Fruit produces SEED, the fruit never look like the SEED, the SEED always looks like the SEED that was planted.
Luke 11:8 Now the PARABLE is this: the SEED is the word of God.
John 1:14 ..... and the word (SEED) was made flesh.
Hebrews 9:28 So Christ (the SEED) was once offered for the sins of many; and unto them that look for him (TRUTH, Christ is truth) he (the SEED) shall APPEAR the SECOND TIME.
Matthew 24:30 Then SHALL APPEAR the sign (the image oft he SEED) of the son of man in heaven (IN YOU).... the son of man COMING in the CLOUDS of heaven (IN YOU).
Colossians 1:27 .... this mystery ..... Christ in YOU ......
Matthew 12:28 But if I CAST OUT DEVILS by the Spirit (TRUTH) of God; then the Kingdom of God has COME TO YOU.
God Bless YOU!
The sin unto death is the rejection of Christ.
It says, If any man see his brother, that is, a Christian, sin a sin which is not unto death, he shall ask, and he shall give him life for them that sin not unto death.
It's God's will that if I see a brother or sister involved in a sin that is not unto death, and that's the rejection of Christ, but I can pray for every born again believer, and God will minister to them, because God will not allow His people to live in habitual sin, and I can pray according to His will.
But then he goes on to say that there is a sin unto death: And I do not say that he shall pray for it.
1 John 5:17 says that all unrighteousness is sin. That's the non-believer.And there is a sin that's not unto death.
All the sins that Christians commit are not unto death. The only sin in the bible that is unto death is in Matthew 12:31-32.
Jesus said wherefore I say unto you, all manner of sin and blasphemy shall be forgiven unto men: but the blasphemy against the Holy Ghost shall not be forgiven unto men.
And whosoever speaks a word against the Son of Man, it shall be forgiven him: but whosoever speaks against the Holy Ghost, it shall not be forgiven him, neither in this world, neither in the world to come.
The Holy Spirit is here to convict people of their need of Christ. If you reject His testimony, you have committed the unpardonable sin.
So he says I can't pray for someone who is rejecting Christ. I can't pray for them to get saved because that's between them and God. I just pray for His will to be done.
Hope this helps!
This and 22 other verses apparently exist in the Gospels where Jesus warned either people or the demons cast out of individuals not to tell anyone who He was. This seems to be particularly focused on the area where the Jews were; for we see exceptions with these examples:
They went across the lake to the region of the Gerasenes. ( Mark 5:1). Here after Jesus cast the legion of demons out of a man he told him to NOT follow Him right away "Go home to your own people and tell them how much the Lord has done for you, and how he has had mercy on you." ( Mark 5:19).
We see the same principal with the woman at the well. John 4 doesn't give any explicit command for the woman to stop; but she goes to her town and brings others; who come to faith and He remains 2 days with an unnamed town of Samaritans who also come to faith after hearing from Christ after the woman told them to come.
These incidences above show how the contrast exists with the Pharisees and religious order who were hell bent literally to oppose and try to destroy Christ from the onset. Christ had to ensure that His time wouldn't come until 3 1/2 years after he started the public ministry; as it was there were about 10 attempts on His life before the Crucifixion at the set time. This also showed a lack of faith in general among His own people; a Prophet is not honored in his hometown ( Mark 6:4). Contrast that with the pasage above and others where He stayed multiple days and no doubt they didn't want Him to leave.
This situation lead; no doubt to Jesus speaking in Parables which at one point at least He ONLY did when speaking to the crowds. ( Matthew 13:34; Mark 4:34). This is quite astonishing and shows how facts alone don't convince hardened hearts. Perhaps it allowed less people to blasphemy the Spirit the unforgiveable sin or cause other to be persuaded such ( Matthew 12:31).
The TRUE presence of God causes division
Satan Himself was built on pride and self-exaltation therefore was mad enough to desire worship for himself despite being in heaven and seeing God's glory and no doubt the earth and the rest of Creation therefore he was given no chance of repentance ( Job 38:7). We see singing in that verse; something Lucifer as Cheribum was designed to do in charge of worship but it was turned to evil. By default then Satan is the God and loyalty of all who do this to the Spirit; most will sin and admit God is righteous or simply hate God or be afraid (as in the sixth seal); eventually Satan will be sent for those who LOVE not the truth but a lie ( 2 Thess. 2:10). Like it or not Antichrist will eventually blasphemy God and yet all those not in the Book of Life will worship him and be damned ( Rev. 13:8).
Matthew 10:36 And a man's foes shall be they of his own household.
Matthew 13:58 And he did not many mighty works there because of their unbelief.
Jesus despite His statement in Matthew 12:48 (He replied to him, "Who is my mother, and who are my brothers?) Jesus demonstrated at the cross his concern for his mother's care and had John live there with her in John 19. It was even worded in the same way "behold your mother"and "behold your son" in verses 26 and 27. We see from the verses above as well as others that family is often the most dificult to reach; even in Christ's case James only believed after the cross. ( John 7:5) shows this; along with unbelief of other brothers at the time. If a sinless Christ was viewed in His hometown as merely being the Son of Joseph and Mary at the time despite the virgin birth being a reality; then of course the only other option would have been as the Pharisees said in John 8:41. And of course we can't expect anything more; since we indeed are all sinners saved by grace. Our family will see something different about us from what we once were; especially if there is a dramatic change in behavior due to certain outward manifestations of behavior radically different after salvation. Of course all of our past mistakes and human weaknesses will be scrutinized by those who grew up with us.
We have challenges from Jesus in both loving God more than our own family as well as the mandates to honor our Father and mother. Clearly our Lord understood the right balance and we should learn from His example. Our natural family isn't our spiritual one; it may or may not become that in time. In my own life not only do I have 2 unbelieving parents in their 90's; NO one in my family to the best of my knowledge are saved. Having to live at home at present therefore means my walk and behavior has to be consistent. Preaching is not going to accomplish much; they are aware I have been a believer 40 years+
We know for a certainty that these 120000 Ninevites were saved because of Matthew 12:41 The men of Nineveh shall rise in judgment with this generation, and shall condemn it: because they repented at the preaching of Jonas; and, behold, a greater than Jonas is here.
All True Believers will be resurrected and raptured to usher in the final judgment at the Last Day in condemnation of those that have not been saved. Their very resurrection and rapture is in itself a condemnation. This is the Marriage Supper of the Lamb. I believe there is no other Biblical way to understand Matt 12:41.
Also, the Bible clearly teaches that the brokenness before God and repentance exhibited by these Ninevits is an Essential characteristic of those that God saves. They are in fact, one of the most dramatic pictures and examples of Salvation that we find in the Bible.
God is also demonstrating in this picture that He does not require an extensive knowledge of scripture to be saved. But He does require a "broken and contrite heart" and recognition of our sinful condition and need for God's Mercy, which can only come from God Himself.
Thank you for your comments David0921. I re-read the Book of Jonah & agree to some things you shared (the wickedness of the Ninevites & God's Judgement against them). But you wrote, "God had worked in their hearts to save them". I think that you meant that salvation from their sins would be their blessed end.
Looking at this Book, I learn: Jonah 1:2 (the wickedness of Nineveh had come before God & He planned for their destruction).
Jonah 3:2 (a command came a second time to Jonah to preach God's Word to them). Jonah 3:4 (Jonah's message of destruction, unless they repent & turn from evil). Jonah 3:5 (the people (& king vv 6-9) believed the message of coming destruction, repented & left off their evil ways). Jonah 3:10 (God recognized their repentance & renunciation of evil). And what did God do as a result? Were they granted salvation for their hearts of sin, or were they granted salvation from an impending destruction by God?
Moving forward to our Lord's time with the Jewish religious leaders; & to Matthew 12:38-42. Jesus spoke of the sign of Jonah (Christ in the grave), & "the men of Nineveh rising in judgement & condemnation against this generation". How could these Ninevites accomplish this? Because they heard, repented & obeyed God's Word of destruction against them whilst the Jews refused. And so also would the Queen of Sheba speak against this generation. These folk of Nineveh & Sheba would condemn the Jews for their rejection of Christ & His Message of repentance. The Ninevites repented & were not destroyed (unlike those of Sodom who faced utter destruction), but did their repentance grant them salvation & eternal life? If you read it as that it did, then I would say that I don't agree. Onto Page 2.
If the belief that a beleiver does not commit sin any longer after they have been born again and saved, then how do you explain:
1. Matthew 12:43-45, "When the unclean spirit is gone out of a man, he walketh through dry places, seeking rest, and findeth none.Then he saith, I will return into my house from whence I came out; and when he is come, he findeth it empty, swept, and garnished.Then goeth he, and taketh with himself seven other spirits more wicked than himself, and they enter in and dwell there: and the last state of that man is worse than the first. Even so shall it be also unto this wicked generation."
2. How do you explain the parable of the prodigal son.
3. How do you explain the 5 unwise virgins that were left out of the marriage.
In your answer you said that 1 John 1:8-9 is for unbelievers. But in 1 John 2:1 it says, "MY LITTLE CHILDREN, these things write I unto you, that ye sin not. And if any man sin (because this will be eventually done sometime), we have an advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the righteous:"
In verses 8-9 it says, "He that saith he is in the light, and hateth his brother, is in darkness even until now. He that loveth his brother abideth in the light, and there is none occasion of stumbling in him." Pay attention that HIS BROTHER, then it says that i he hates him then he stays in darkness. That means that it is possible to hate his brother, hence doing a sin. And that is for a believer.
GBU
We need to consider what was going on in the Exodus years when there were strict orders on Manna as a sort of initial principle. There people were ordered to collect for two days on the Sabbath eve; which contradicted the normal daily routine where it would rot and they were specifically told NOT to save any. Such verses as the example in Numbers should at least have us soberly examine ourselves and how preoccupied we are when we come together as a local church. Some Reformed or OPC churches will not discuss anything outside scripture on Sundays. While that may be a bit too strict; all the endless banter which seems to be discussed before services in particular could use some serious editing. Not only does it detract from the sanctity of the fellowship but it keeps those needing prayer from expressing those needs; as well as squelching opportunities to offer prayers over the cacaphony. An attitude of prayer; as well as discussing the Word and God's attributes should be something the Pastor and Elders motivate people to do. A swift rebuke once in a while in convicting messages on that subject would probably be in order as well. Knowing how deep a conversation can go can quickly determine those who God has led to Disciple us or not